kiss of an Angel
She perched on the branch of the tree. Light glimpsed over her, the sun saying it's last good night. The moon rose steadily. As darkness fell, life seemed to arouse a bit in the little harbor town. But darkness concealed her. Dark, skin-tight clothes clung to her agile form. Two escrim sticks rested on her calves, held in place por their locks. A small hand gun just barely peaked out of her black boots. A bo staff was linked to her back, a thin but strong sword on her hip. Her face was covered, bright blue eyes revealed por the slit in her mask. Her rustic red trendels fell from the opening on parte superior, arriba of her head, hair pulled in a tight tail. Every inch of her body-minus her eyes-was covered in black.
Slowly the calle lights went on. Several cars drove by, but otherwise the town was inactive. Her eyes narrowed and scanned the horizon. A coy smile graced her hidden lips as she found her prey. Without making any noise, she jumped from one árbol to the siguiente until she was closer to the almost abandoned docks. Six teens stood there, talking silently. Most of them were dressed in civilian clothing. But one in particular was wearing sunglasses. At night. She held back the urge to laugh; it was almost too easy. But she never jinxed things, knowing a situation could always get worse. She slipped down from the árbol and towards the group, once again making no sound. Out of the cinturón, correa hanging on her waist, she took a ring with a small green crystal; kryptonite. She maneuvered it onto her finger until further needed. She gently unclasped her escrim sticks, keeping her eyes on her targets.
They were communicating telepathically now, más than likely sensing her. Her smile grew. She jogged to the dock, quickly slipping herself underneath them. She kept away from the water, knowing of the Atlantian's talent. The sound of the ocean filled her ears, but she tuned it out. Instead, she kept her senses alert and ready. This was her mission and she would not fail. She never failed; graduated number one in her class even. But there was the other things she learned about; things that bewildered even her mind. Things of mystical nature. It had intrigued her. She wanted it and there was only one way to get it. And it was going to break all the rules. She shook her head, focusing her mind to the task at hand. She looked up and sniffed the air. Gone but their scents was still strong; she could track them.
She vaulted over the railings, landing with the tiniest groan of the boards. She started to walk towards their scent, but stopped when she heard a splash. So the Atlantian's the leader. And I bet I know who came up with the plan. She walked to the edge, peering over. She pulled away just before a rush of wind came towards her. The railing broke and she heard a gasp before another splash sounded.
Stupid speedster. He should've known not to do that; they all should have known. Staying in the shadows, she walked towards the scents. She stopped suddenly, joining her escrim sticks and touching the ground. A net sprang upwards and she calmly pulled her pole back into separate pieces. A net? Seriously? Oh how pathetic; they're not even trying. She narrowed her eyes. Three shadows stood in a nearby patch of trees. Three? I only heard two splashes. Hmm. The mouth piece of the mask was lifted and tied to fit around her head. She slipped the ring from her finger, slipping it onto her tongue. She heard him before he even screamed. At the last second, she jumped, causing the ground to crumble. She skidded, but remained balanced. She turned to face him, seeing the bold logo on his black shirt.
Ah. The kryptonian clone. I expected you. She jumped upwards to meet him on the way up, using her escrim sticks to throw him off balance. She landed and looked to the place he was picking himself up. She rushed at him, once again causing him to fall. She felt his anger as she straddled his hips, her body bending as her tongue slipped inside his mouth. An evil glimmer appeared in her eyes as she felt his energy and strength drain. A psychic blow caused her to fly backwards. She hit a wall, her head banging against the side. She slipped the ring from her mouth, dropping it back into her belt. She tied the mouthpiece back on, standing for a fight. She allowed the segundo psychic blow to hit her, let them think she was loosing.
“ Great job beautiful,” an energetic and very wet speedster praised. She smiled behind her mask.
“Shut up Kid,” the boy wearing the shade's retorted.
“Calm down. Megan, go check on Superboy. We'll confirmar who the attacker is.”
Indeed tu will Atlantian.
She stood up from the last blow, awaiting her “accusers” in the dark shadows. The speedster rushed por her and never even felt her presence. He came back, heading towards the leader. But she had other plans for him. She tripped him with her foot, slipping a drug in his mouth. He fell, instantly knocked out. And she smiled.
“Kid would tu hurry?”
It was a female. The archer. The martian girl was with the kryptonian. That left her, the archer, the Atlantian, and the hacker.
“Kid?”
“Wally?”
The rich sound flooded her ears. She loved the sound of worried friends and/or teammates. She craved it; lived for it. Finally, the other three came after the fallen speedster.
“Wally?”
The youngest bent siguiente to him, examining him.
“He's fine, just drugged.”
“Why is somebody doing this? We haven't done anything wrong...legally.”
Oh how wrong tu are Archer. I pity you.
“I don't know Artemis. But we must be careful. She took Kid down without a segundo thought.”
“Yeah, but Wally's not the smartest person in the world.”
“As correct as tu are Robin, she also took Superboy down.”
“Yeah...that's a little whelming.”
“Can't tu speak like a normal human?!” Artemis groaned.
“Can't become something I'm not,” Robin returned.
“Calm my friends. We must work together and por on the alert.”
“As usual, Kaldur's right,” Robin admitted.
He pulled a map up from his halo-watch. Several red dots were scattered everywhere and she was glad she was undetected.
“Ugh! I can't find any rouge person beside us! How's that possible?!”
“Maybe your watch is wrong.”
“Please Artemis. If something was wrong I would know.”
The screen suddenly shifted, as if static had interfered.
“What was that tu said?”
Robin muttered under his breath. He typed several commands on his computer, quickly riding it of the problem. The picture changed, but she was still undetected.
“I'm still not getting anything!”
She smiled beneath her mask and slipped away. Walk towards the street, she could see the martian girl tending to a very weak Superboy. Flipping a coin, she chose to use her talents to speed things up. Any thing that wasn't distinctly human would be hurt. She raised her hands to her head, allowing a syphilis stream run through her. Charging her energy, she let a strong wave of a very intolerable disease surround the area. But it was a disease she ad learned; one that didn't effect humans and only lasted 24 hours. It was all she needed. When it cleared, she saw both the clone and martian on the ground. And por the urgent cries she guessed she'd gotten the Atlantian too. With the speedster drugged, she had to get the last two before they finished the call to the Justice League. She jumped up to the building, landing on the other side. And she had landed in the light. The last two members saw her, but she was fast. Before they knew it, she had them both out with one swipe of her bo staff. She picked up the dropped com link.
“Hey. Justice League? This is Widow. Your team has failed and everything is going to fall right before you're eyes. And this is only the beginning.”
They woke up, surprised por the rush of cold water on their faces. They gasped and bolted upright. The Justice League (more importantly their mentors) stood before them.
“What happened?” Robin asked, holding his head.
“You were attacked,” the Dark Knight replied. He placed a hand on his protege's back to steady him. Robin relaxed at the familiar touch.
“Where are we?” Artemis demanded.
“In the Justice League hospital,” her mentor responded.
“Why are we here?”
“Because Wally,” Flash began. “Megan, Kaldur, and Superboy were infected with a disease.”
Wally immediately moved closer to Robin, who slapped the back of his head.
“It's not contagious,” Flash explained with an eye roll.
“Oh,” was the intelligent comeback.
“How long were we out?” Robin spoke up.
“Mmmmm about two days. tu took quite a beating; all of you.”
“What about them?” Wally asked, motioning to his three sick teammates with his head.
“It's the weirdest thing. They were cured twenty-four hours after becoming infected. But we have no idea what it is.”
“So they're okay?” Artemis asked.
“Yeah. But we don't know if it'll come back. Apparently, humans can't catch it. Only things that are even slightly altered from being human.”
“We need tu to tell us as much as tu can about your attacker,” batman suddenly announced.
“Female.”
Robin responded instantly to the sudden change of topics.
“Good. What else?”
“Prepared to fight everyone of us. Quick, talented, agile, and definatly smart.”
Everyone but his mentor looked at Robin strangely.
“Dude! How can tu pull all these adjectives out of thin air?!” Wally exclaimed.
“He's learned to adapt and observe,” batman answered. “But back to the description.”
“Umm, she carried a lot of weapons,” Wally said.
“She was able to detect the slightest sound o movement,” Artemis added.
“Was very...willing to do all she could to take us down.”
“Good Megan. Anything else?”
“Oh! She was wearing a black outfit that clung to her body, black face mask that allowed her to untie the mouth piece, eye slots, blue eyes, rusty red hair.”
Once again, Robin became the focus of everyone's attention. He looked down at his hands and mumbled incoherently.
“That's all we need. Get some rest.”
batman escorted everyone out before closing the door. The room was empty, minus it's six occupants. Robin laid back down, turning so the others couldn't see his face. He listened as they talked, making his breath even and soft. He didn't fall asleep but rather wanted them to think he did. That way, if he cried, it would seem like he'd had a nightmare. Normally, Robin would accept defeat easily. But something in those blue eyes, so much like his mother's, made his mind reel back in time, to the día his parents died. He sniffled, trying to keep the tears back. But a few slipped from behind his mask and down his cheeks.
Don't think about it. There's no need to think about it. You're just over analyzing the situation. There's nothing that should turn tu back to that day. Robin's thoughts did little to comfort him. As much as he wanted to cry and tell his team all about his past, he couldn't; batman was his father and his mentor. What kind of son would he be if he disobeyed those rules? No. He wouldn't tell anyone about his parents. He had a father now; and he'd do anything to keep him.
A soft smile graced her lips as she looked at them from the vents. She could see all of them but they couldn't see her. Looking at them through her own eyes, she wanted to cry with Robin. She knew him, his thoughts, and everything in between. To most, he was a mystery. To her though, he was a friend, a companion. Someone who just might be able to help her. The others were talking about her little bird, wondering if he was okay. They just couldn't understand and they never would; Robin wouldn't disobey his father because he was all Robin had left; the only person he could call family. That was alive anyway. But her main focus was on Robin, not his friends. His friends were whole; they knew who they were and what they would become. But her Robin didn't really know, just pretended to. It was another mask that held back another secret.
Robin...she thought sadly. Her corazón grew heavy as she saw the silent tears slide down his cheeks. She wanted to help, make him feel better. But it wasn't her place and it wasn't her talent. She was meant for fiercer things than that of someone opposite of her. And she wasn't going to be allowed to change. She'd already decided and she already knew her destiny. She knew her past and her future. She knew every plan, every scheme, every turn. And she knew what was to happen if they ever found her. Knew what would happen if they ever saw her. They just couldn't see her. It would bring a curse on them and it would bring a penalty down on her. At least, they couldn't see the real her. She shook her head, clearing it of any unwanted thoughts. She just wanted to watch Robin, observe him.
Robin. If I could change the world for you, I would. I'd give tu the world if I had the power. And that's all I need. Then, my little Robin, I'll be able to give tu your greatest desire. Even if it breaks me in two; even if it breaks my heart. I just want tu happy. And I want tu alive.
He glared at the screen in front of him. For five hours he'd done nothing but buscar and he found no hint of anyone called Widow. Nothing but Marvel's comic hero Black Widow. But that was a comic, a child's story. He growled in frustration; he hated to be clueless. Knowledge was power. If tu had the right knowledge then nothing could stop you. But everything he'd chased, any kind of lead was not to be seen even with all his technology. A soft knock sounded on the door.
“Bruce?”
Canary stuck her head in, blonde hair falling over her shoulder.
“Any luck?” she asked.
“None.”
“Well, stop. The kids are fine and it's late. tu should sleep.”
He raised an eyebrow at her from underneath his capucha, chimenea and she only noticed because she'd worked with him for so long.
“You do know what sleep is, right?”
He gave a small nod, still staring. Canary came into the room and shut the door. She came to stand before him and looked up at him.
“Bruce...are tu sure we should do this. I mean, after everything they've been through...”
“I'm not risking my son's life where I can't save him, Dinah. I'm sorry.”
“But they'll be so upset, so sad. I-I don't want to watch them get through this. How will they react? I mean, Superboy will go rouge, Aqualad will return to Atlantis, and Megan will return to Mars. Artemis will más than likely stay with Oliver and Wally with Barry. But what will it do to Robin? He's the one I'm most concerned about. He's so withdrawn. I know he wants to tell his team everything but he would never disobey you. And I know he'll get over it. But there's a part of me that wonders...if taking him away will only do más harm to him.”
Canary looked at him with sad eyes before looking down; no one could stand against the Bat-gaze.
“Is it really worth it, Bruce? Robin will be devastated. He finally has a place where he can be himself with people his own age. Have tu even taken that into consideration?”
Bruce stared at her for several minutos without responding. He knew Robin's emotions would play a big part in what was about to take place. He also knew that his son might become a very seguro person. But was his safety really that much compared to his happiness? He'd been through enough in the last four years. He was nine when his parents died for heaven's sake! And he spent most of his time endangering his life. But he found that work enjoyable, another toy that would help him learn. And if he had been watching correctly, Robin already knew something was about to happen. So either way, Bruce was left with the decision. He'd founded the team and now he had to decide: keep the team o leave it behind? Although he wanted Robin safe, he also wanted him happy. And he wouldn't want to look into his son's eyes only to find hurt and betrayal. So there was only one choice left. And it was very clear that the choice would have to come from him.
“I can see I've made tu think. I'll leave tu alone but please get some rest. And just think about your son.”
Bruce watched her leave. Canary was smart, level-headed, and never one to act on emotion. But this sudden plea of hers had Bruce thinking. Canary had sensed the emotions of the young heroes and had found the problem. She was trying to remove it, but knew only Bruce could. Therefore it made sense she had seeked him out and not any of the other League members though she must have talked to them. Without their input, she'd never have the nerve to challenge him as she had. So if all the other League members had seen it, it meant they were all giving him responsibility for the upcoming announcement. Now if only he knew what to do.
She slipped through the closing door. batman sat in a chair, thinking. She was careful to be quiet, even if he couldn't sense her o even see her. She walked to his computer, typing in a few commands. The screen flashed with a bright firing background. She typed in her name and code and instantly her perfil popped out. She turned and saw him staring through her. But she could feel his eyes mover across the screen. The information had seeped into her brain long ago. Even before she was alive.
Name: Devin “Widow” Dare
Residence: Currently the human world
Occupation: Minor, trained assassin
Abilities: Flight, heat vision, speed, gymnastics, invisibility, magic
Relatives: None
History: Devin has been trained since birth. She's had schooling until she was twelve. Mastering the art of fighting at the age of five, Devin was moved to the upper-class of students. Her loyalty is questionable but her talents are needed. She is cunning and quick on the up-take leaving everyone else behind. The teachers adore and fear her. She is known to have magic overdose and can be a threat to many of us. W must keep her separated. Was once an ángel of Light.
Talents: Magic spells, jinx powers, sorceress, dark magic, demon powers
Species: Dark Angel
Master: Sensai Turron. Must be watched carefully.
The information that had been hidden away was revealed and she knew the consequences for doing it and helping out a human. But Sensai had told her to do what she can to help so they might lead her to the treasure she seeked. And it was foolish to disobey your Sensai; it would only lead to treason. And treason was immediate sentence to the devil himself. Even she wouldn't dare go there. So she'd stayed in the human world at her Sensai's command. Besides, she had a special message to deliver. And she couldn't fail; she never failed. She felt him staring at the computer again. She eyed him and followed when he got up to leave the room. Devin walked close behind him, wanting to keep close so she wouldn't loose him. He opened the door to the hospital wing and she followed him through the door to the Young Justice.
They looked when he entered, all except Robin who was asleep. She knew because she happily watched him slip into his dreams. She walked to his bed, standing at the head board. Now Devin was out of the way and able to see everyone. Silently, she placed her hand on Robin's head, ruffling the silky black hair. Because she wasn't “real” at the moment, it seemed as if he had roused himself from sleep. She smiled when he sat up and blinked at his mentor.
“We need to talk,” batman said.
The others shared looks but Devin sat on the cama with Robin, who just stared expectantly at the Dark Knight. She brushed her hand against his skin, feeling how smooth it was. Robin looked down and, finding no trace as to what had touched him, shuddered.
“Your attacker. Tell me how much tu saw of her.”
They blinked before Wally spoke up.
“Umm, I could see her back before she....”
Wally coughed and his voice trailed off. batman raised any eyebrow and Robin giggled before explaining.
“She moved faster than Wally and he ended up in that water.”
“Dude!”
Devin smiled as Robin laughed again. She saw Batman's lips turn up slightly. But then he was back to buisness.
“What else?”
“She was very tall and slim,” Kaldur answered.
“She was definatly able to mover quick enough to take Wally and Superboy out,” Artemis grumbled.
“She seemed unaffected por my psychic blasts,” Megan whispered almost sadly.
“Gymnast,” Robin stated, looking at something on his halo watch.
“How would tu know?” Wally asked, still upset his best friend had sold him out.
“Because of the way she moved. She was flexible, powerful. She not only was light on her feet but she was able to go from one position to the siguiente without hurting herself. She moved through the air like she was flying. Not many people can do that easily. She's a gymnast.”
Robin's voice had grown quiet the longer he talked. Devin wanted to say she was sorry for making think about his parents. But it was against her Sensai's rules. Never say sorry unless under authority. She touched his arm again with gentle fingers, stroking it softly. This time, Robin only looked up at the touch. He seemed...at ease por her touch. A smile graced her lips again and she could tell he saw it even if he never saw her.
“Your attacker,” batman said, bringing their attention back to the matter at hand.
“What about her?” Artemis asked. She wanted to change the topic quickly.
“She's an assassin.”
Devin smirked when their faces turned a shade lighter. She loved to see fear in people; she feed upon it. It was what had helped her before.
“W-why didn't she kill us?”
Robin's voice betrayed his fear. Devin smiled at him, her resolution softening.
“I don't know. She called herself Widow. And I couldn't find any trace of her. But, somehow, my computer found a lead, opened up a link. Robin, did tu hack it?”
Robin shook his head quickly. Of course he didn't; he didn't know her name.
“No sir. I didn't hack the computer. I wasn't even hacking a thing since we got here.”
Devin shot batman a look. How dare he accuse Robin! I'm the one who did it moron! Punish me!
“I'm just making sure. Now, the Justice League has been...concerned for your safety,” batman announced with a glance around the room. “I want to shut down this team.”
Horrified looks and gasps escaped the young heroes in the room. Shut them down? But that wasn't fair! They were okay, better than ever.
“But the League has persuaded me not to.”
Robin persuaded you, idiot. Don't deny it.
Devin smiled at the relief on their faces.
“So you'll be staying together. But that means no separating, no leaving someone, and definatly stay inside the mountain unless one of the League is with you. Understood?”
They all nodded yes and batman turned.
“For tonight you'll stay here. We'll head out early.”
Devin smiled as they began to chatter. But Robin didn't registrarse in. He stared at something he'd pulled out of his utility belt. She moved to sit closer to him. Her smile disappeared when she saw the picture of his parents. He had turned away so the others wouldn't see his tears, but she saw them.
“Why'd tu have to go?” he breathed almost inaudibly. “I miss tu so much!”
Devin moved so she faced him. She placed a hand over his, squeezing lightly. He didn't look up, stared at the picture. But a small smile tugged his lips upwards; a sign that he'd felt it. Devin's other hand brushed tears off his face and she kissed his forehead.
“Robin?”
Devin looked over the young bird's head at Wally, who was coming closer. She took the picture, slipping it under the almohada before Wally saw. She used magic to clear the tear stains off Robin's face so there'd be no questions. He turned his head to look at the red-head.
“Are tu okay?” Wally asked.
He sat beside his friend, knees curled up to his chest. Devin looked into Wally's forest green eyes. He blinked several times; he had felt her presence.
“Yeah. I'm just tired. This has been a rough couple of days.”
Wally nodded in understanding, leaning against the foot board.
“I know. It's been quite a challenge. But we'll get through this. We always do.”
Robin smiled softly, eyes on the hand that Devin covered. She looked at Wally again. He shook his head, blinking fiercely.
“Man, is someone here?”
“I don't know. I keep feeling someone touch me, kissed my forehead. Even right now my hand is covered.”
“Well this is really weird. I have the feeling someone's watching us.”
“Me too. But nothing bad will happen.”
“How do tu know?” Wally asked, cocking his head.
“I don't. I just have this feeling that everything will be okay.”
Wally stared at him for a long while and Robin dropped his head. Devin squeezed his hand again. He craned his head up, eyes closed.
“She's here,” he whispered.
“How do tu know it's a girl?”
Robin smiled gently.
“Because I heard her voice.”
“She spoke to you?”
“No. That's the weird part. I think she was transferring her thoughts into my head. Like telepathy. But her thoughts were soft, sweet. Not gentle, just...sweet.”
Wally stared some más before touching Robin's forehead with his hand.
“Are tu sick? Maybe tu took a harder fall then we thought.”
Robin waved Wally's hand away, bringing his head back down to look at his friend.
“At least I didn't fall into the water.”
Wally groaned loudly, causing the others to look at him.
“What are tu talking about?” Artemis asked.
“Robin's hearing voices,” Wally hissed.
Artemis raised an eyebrow.
“Are tu sure Robin's the one hearing voices?”
A pleased cackle broke into the air as Wally turned to pout.
“I'm serious! Come over here. I'm telling tu someone's here!”
Devin smiled as Artemis joined the two on the bed. Devin brought a hand out to stroke Artemis' neck and she was gifted with wide eyes.
“Oh my-! tu guys, there really is something here!”
“I don't sense anybody,” Megan said.
“I felt hands on my neck! Come over here!”
The other three shared looks before complying to Artemis' request. They all sat on the bed. Devin looked at the martian girl; she knew a few martian tricks. Megan yelped as Devin ran her finger nails over Megan's knee lightly. But there were very light marks. Next, she touched Kaldur's tattoos, causing them to pulse brightly. And she ran her hand over Superboy's arm. But her hand never left Robin's. They all stared in shock and surprise. Except Robin who looked content.
“Oh my-I can't believe it just happened!”
“It's okay Megan,” Robin assured. “She won't hurt you.”
“How are tu so relaxed?!” Wally exclaimed.
“I don't know. It's like-like someone is inside me, keeping me at ease. I honestly have no idea what's happening.”
“Don't worry Young Justice,” Devin said. “I'm not going to hurt you.”
“See?”
The others looked at Robin.
“See what?” Wally asked.
Robin's eyebrows knit together.
“Didn't tu hear her? She dicho she wasn't going to harm us.”
They exchanged looks.
“They can't hear me Robin,” Devin explained.
“Why not?” Robin asked.
“Because I'm not here for them. I'm here for you.”
“Me? Why me?”
“I have a message.”
“From who?”
“Your parents.”
Robin's eyes widened and he looked over to where Devin sat. The others just stared at him in confusion; who was he talking to?
“What does it say?” Robin asked gently.
“They say They amor you, they're proud of you. They miss tu and they're sorry they can't be here.”
“But it wasn't their fault! If Two-Face hadn't shown up-”
“I know. They know. tu know. That's all that matters.”
“Can tu tell me why they sent it now?”
“Yes. Your parents saw me before they died. They didn't know tu were okay. But they saw tu several weeks ago. They had to hunt me down. And now I'm delivering their message.”
Robin bowed his head, tears falling from behind his mask. He sniffled as he looked back up at Devin.
“Who are you?” he whispered.
“My name is Devin. I too lost my parents when I was young.”
“What happened to them?”
“They fell.”
“I'm sorry. Did tu see it happen?”
“Yes. But that's not the point. I'm here to watch over you.”
“Are tu an angel?”
“Yes Robin. I am an angel. But not the kind you're thinking of.”
“What kind of ángel are you?”
“I'm a Dark Angel. But not por choice. I became one when I flew after my parents. tu see, some ángeles die and never come back. Others die and become demons. But there is a small number of angel's that have fallen into hell. Then we become Dark Angels.”
“Oh. Did they fall from heaven?”
“Who Robin?”
“Your parents.”
“Yes, little bird. They did.”
“Why'd tu call me that?”
“What? Little Bird?”
“Yeah. I'm not that much shorter than everyone else.”
“I know. I call tu little bird because I've watched over tu for thirteen years. And I've seen how tu fly without wings.”
“That makes sense.”
The sun was streaming in through the window but no body noticed. They were still staring at Robin, listening to his one-sided conversation. They didn't know who he was talking to o even why he was talking. He was never one to trust instinct, relying on his sense. But they didn't see o hear anything. And Megan sensed no other person.
“Hey why can't my friends see you?” Robin asked, cocking his head.
Devin smiled and she giggled softly.
“Because little bird. They do not believe that I am here.”
“How come?”
“Well, they don't want to believe that something they can't see is real.”
“Oh.”
Robin curled up on the bed, his head resting on Devin's lap. She smiled down at him though he couldn't see her.
“Are tu going to stay here Devin?” he whispered.
“No. I follow you; I was meant to watch over you.”
Robin smiled, eyes closing. He let out a small yawn before curling in closer.
“I'm glad you're coming with me Devin.”
Devin looked down surprised. Robin was already asleep, but she stroked his head as tears formed in her eyes.
“Me too Robin. I'll always be here. I'll always watch over you.”
“Devin?”
Robin's voice called out to her when he awoke in the Young Justice mountain/base. He had been placed in his cama and, as he sat up, he looked around for Devin.
“I'm here Robin.”
Her voice came from beside him. He turned so he faced her.
“What's wrong, Robin?” she asked.
“I thought I dreamed you. I wanted to know if tu were real.”
A small laugh escaped her lips.
“Don't worry little bird. I am real.”
“How can I be sure? I can't see you.”
“Here. Right in front of tu is one of my wings. Touch it, tell me how it feels.”
Robin reached out his hand, feeling soft feathers. They were silky and smooth, warm and textured. But most importantly, they were real.
“What do tu feel?” Devin asked.
“Soft, silky feathers. They're warm and fluffy. Have a nice texture too.”
“How does it feel?”
“Solid. Real.”
“There. tu see? I'm as real as tu are.”
“But the others...”
“Can't believe that I'm here. They refuse to except what they can not explain. Especially Wally.”
“You know KF?”
“Robin, I told tu I follow you. I've seen you're friends and I know much about them. Wally is a man of science. He doesn't believe in the supernatural o magic. Everything is different for him.”
“But I'm a lot like him.”
“Yes but...you're experienced with certain types of supernatural o magical affairs. There is a tu believe in yet tu still believe. Therefore, tu can hear me.”
“How come I can't see tu Devin?”
“Because little bird, believe isn't seeing. When tu believe in me much stronger, I will mostrar myself to you.”
“When will that be?” Robin whispered.
“That all depends on you.”
Robin looked at the place Devin's voice was coming from. He cocked his head and stared at her.
“Robin, why do tu stare?”
“I want to see if I can trace your form.”
“You want to see the outline of me?”
“Yeah.”
Devin looked down and started to mumble something Robin couldn't hear. But a slow shape started to appear before him; Devin's outline. She was sitting cross-legged, hands in her lap. Her wing were tucked gently behind her back and he could just barley see her hair running over her shoulder.
“Are tu satisfied?” Devin whispered.
“For now.”
The door to his room suddenly opened and Wally came in. Robin turned his head to face his best friend, seeing Devin's outline fade away.
“Hi Wally.”
“Hey.”
“What can I do for you?”
Wally scratched the back of his neck.
“Um, can I ask tu something?”
“Sure.”
Wally came and sat on Robin's bed. He faced his friend as he leaned against the wall.
“You remember when we were talking and tu dicho tu heard someone talking?”
Robin nodded his head.
“Do you-uh-do tu think it was the person who attacked us?”
Robin blinked a few times behind his glasses. He sat silently, thinking over Wally's pregunta and all that Devin had told him. Finally he spoke.
“I don't know. Let me ask.”
Robin saw the disbelief in Wally's eyes as he turned to face the ángel beside him.
“Devin?”
“Yes?”
“Did tu hear Wally's question?”
“Yes little bird.”
“Can tu answer it for me?”
“Yes. I will. I am a Dark ángel but I live in the human world. I've learned many things Robin. And those abilities helped me to attack you.”
“Why'd tu do it? batman dicho tu were an assassin. Why didn't tu kill us before?”
“Because Robin. It's true I'm an assassin, but I would never kill young heroes like this crew. I was, in fact, warding off other demons and blood-thirsty Dark ángeles from the team. The only way to do that is to defeat tu and mark tu as mine.”
“Where are the marks?”
“On your hands, Robin. They are cast with a protective spell. If ever tu are in danger tu can't handle, than your mark will appear and it will save tu until I arrive.”
“So, you're every one's angel.”
“In a way, yes. But my powers are strongest in you. My Sensai bonded me to you. I watch over you, guard you, help you.”
“Oh.”
“What'd you're ángel friend say Rob?” Wally asked, cutting into the conversation.
Robin repeated what Devin had dicho but there was still doubt in Wally's eyes.
“You don't believe that Devin's real.”
It was a statement, not a question.
“No. How come tu can hear her but the rest of us can't?”
“Devin dicho it's because tu don't believe in magic o the supernatural.”
“Well yeah because it doesn't exist.”
“But you're supernatural. You've got super-speed! How can tu not believe Devin's real compared to...to...Miss Martian o Green Lantern o even Superboy? They're all combined to some supernatural force. And so are you.”
Wally opened and shut his mouth several times. His eyes were wide and Robin feared he had broken Wally's brain. But a small laugh broke the silence in the room.
“What was that?!”
“What do tu mean?” Robin asked, a smirk on his face.
“That laugh. Where'd it come from?!”
“You heard it?”
“Duh! Why else would I ask about it?”
“Well done Robin. tu just set Wally straight.”
“Oh my-who was that?!”
“Devin.”
“The angel-freak?”
“I'm no más of a freak than tu are Wally.”
Robin laughed at that, his famous cackle breaking free from his lips.
“Dude! Your guardian ángel just called me a freak and you're laughing?”
“I-I'm sorry...Wally. I-It was just so...funny.”
As Robin continued to laugh, a very feminine laugh joined his.
“Why does everybody hate me?” Wally asked, curling into a ball.
“Wally.”
He looked up at the sound of his name and could've sworn he saw two amazing blue eyes staring at him.
“I'm sorry I upset you. I'm a Dark Angel; sometimes it's hard to be kind to...certain people.”
“What do tu mean?”
“Well, I know when Artemis first joined the team tu weren't so happy to see her. But tu adjusted to a situation tu couldn't change. It's the same for me. I'm here on Earth to protect and serve Young Justice but I'm a Dark Angel. It's a strange situation.”
Robin had finally calmed down as Devin had explained her theology to Wally. Now he sat, eyes on Wally, waiting to hear his reaction.
“That's actually pretty smart Devin. I had no idea Dark Angel's were so educated.”
“Please. Most of them aren't. But I am because I wasn't born a Dark Angel.”
“Her parent's fell and she ended up in hell trying to catch them,” Robin explained with a gentle tone. “Her parents died. But Devin became a Dark Angel.”
Wally nodded his head, looking around the room. He was still stunned that Robin had been able to change Wally's mind and cause him to hear Devin's voice.
“So does this mean Devin does whatever we ask her to?”
“I don't know. Devin?”
“I'm here to serve. There is a however and I'm here, mostly, for Robin's sake.”
“Why Rob?” Wally asked. “I mean he's my best friend and all but why him?”
“Well, why not Robin? I've watched him for about thirteen years. If tu were able to see, know, and understand his life, tu would realize how little he actually has. I don't mean society wise. I mean the things that truly cause integrity and value in a person. Those kinds of gifts are not easily applied but Robin has them. They're just so little compared to his actual potential and value.”
Both Robin and Wally were silent when Devin finished. They were slowly processing it in their heads, understanding what Devin meant. She'd dicho so much about him in just a few sentences. And they didn't even know what she was about to say next; it made the moment even más touching, even más memorable then before.
“Robin is the type of person every body likes. And although immature at points, he's level-headed. Not only that, but every single person he meets, the people who know him, are the ones who can't live without him. They're the ones that wouldn't want to live without him. Robin's too valuable to loose.”
Devin's voice was sincere, her tone gentle but smiling. Her words were truthful and loving. She watched both teens as Robin tried to hold back the tears Devin had caused; but they were tears of affectionate emotion. Wally bit his lip as he stared at his best friend, wondering what he could do to help.
“Take the mask off Wally. Both tu and I know his identity. It won't matter to Robin if Dick Grayson cries.”
Wally scooted closer to Robin, gently pulling the mask off of those electric blue eyes. And those eyes were tender, questioning, and affected.
“Was Devin true? Is it true what she said?” the young boy whispered.
“Every word, Dick. Every single word.”
Dick bit his lip before throwing his arms around Wally's neck, hugging him tightly. Wally returned the embrace even as he felt cold tears soak through his shirt. Devin opened her wings and, with a gentle touch, spread them over the two heroes, hiding them from sight.
She perched on the branch of the tree. Light glimpsed over her, the sun saying it's last good night. The moon rose steadily. As darkness fell, life seemed to arouse a bit in the little harbor town. But darkness concealed her. Dark, skin-tight clothes clung to her agile form. Two escrim sticks rested on her calves, held in place por their locks. A small hand gun just barely peaked out of her black boots. A bo staff was linked to her back, a thin but strong sword on her hip. Her face was covered, bright blue eyes revealed por the slit in her mask. Her rustic red trendels fell from the opening on parte superior, arriba of her head, hair pulled in a tight tail. Every inch of her body-minus her eyes-was covered in black.
Slowly the calle lights went on. Several cars drove by, but otherwise the town was inactive. Her eyes narrowed and scanned the horizon. A coy smile graced her hidden lips as she found her prey. Without making any noise, she jumped from one árbol to the siguiente until she was closer to the almost abandoned docks. Six teens stood there, talking silently. Most of them were dressed in civilian clothing. But one in particular was wearing sunglasses. At night. She held back the urge to laugh; it was almost too easy. But she never jinxed things, knowing a situation could always get worse. She slipped down from the árbol and towards the group, once again making no sound. Out of the cinturón, correa hanging on her waist, she took a ring with a small green crystal; kryptonite. She maneuvered it onto her finger until further needed. She gently unclasped her escrim sticks, keeping her eyes on her targets.
They were communicating telepathically now, más than likely sensing her. Her smile grew. She jogged to the dock, quickly slipping herself underneath them. She kept away from the water, knowing of the Atlantian's talent. The sound of the ocean filled her ears, but she tuned it out. Instead, she kept her senses alert and ready. This was her mission and she would not fail. She never failed; graduated number one in her class even. But there was the other things she learned about; things that bewildered even her mind. Things of mystical nature. It had intrigued her. She wanted it and there was only one way to get it. And it was going to break all the rules. She shook her head, focusing her mind to the task at hand. She looked up and sniffed the air. Gone but their scents was still strong; she could track them.
She vaulted over the railings, landing with the tiniest groan of the boards. She started to walk towards their scent, but stopped when she heard a splash. So the Atlantian's the leader. And I bet I know who came up with the plan. She walked to the edge, peering over. She pulled away just before a rush of wind came towards her. The railing broke and she heard a gasp before another splash sounded.
Stupid speedster. He should've known not to do that; they all should have known. Staying in the shadows, she walked towards the scents. She stopped suddenly, joining her escrim sticks and touching the ground. A net sprang upwards and she calmly pulled her pole back into separate pieces. A net? Seriously? Oh how pathetic; they're not even trying. She narrowed her eyes. Three shadows stood in a nearby patch of trees. Three? I only heard two splashes. Hmm. The mouth piece of the mask was lifted and tied to fit around her head. She slipped the ring from her finger, slipping it onto her tongue. She heard him before he even screamed. At the last second, she jumped, causing the ground to crumble. She skidded, but remained balanced. She turned to face him, seeing the bold logo on his black shirt.
Ah. The kryptonian clone. I expected you. She jumped upwards to meet him on the way up, using her escrim sticks to throw him off balance. She landed and looked to the place he was picking himself up. She rushed at him, once again causing him to fall. She felt his anger as she straddled his hips, her body bending as her tongue slipped inside his mouth. An evil glimmer appeared in her eyes as she felt his energy and strength drain. A psychic blow caused her to fly backwards. She hit a wall, her head banging against the side. She slipped the ring from her mouth, dropping it back into her belt. She tied the mouthpiece back on, standing for a fight. She allowed the segundo psychic blow to hit her, let them think she was loosing.
“ Great job beautiful,” an energetic and very wet speedster praised. She smiled behind her mask.
“Shut up Kid,” the boy wearing the shade's retorted.
“Calm down. Megan, go check on Superboy. We'll confirmar who the attacker is.”
Indeed tu will Atlantian.
She stood up from the last blow, awaiting her “accusers” in the dark shadows. The speedster rushed por her and never even felt her presence. He came back, heading towards the leader. But she had other plans for him. She tripped him with her foot, slipping a drug in his mouth. He fell, instantly knocked out. And she smiled.
“Kid would tu hurry?”
It was a female. The archer. The martian girl was with the kryptonian. That left her, the archer, the Atlantian, and the hacker.
“Kid?”
“Wally?”
The rich sound flooded her ears. She loved the sound of worried friends and/or teammates. She craved it; lived for it. Finally, the other three came after the fallen speedster.
“Wally?”
The youngest bent siguiente to him, examining him.
“He's fine, just drugged.”
“Why is somebody doing this? We haven't done anything wrong...legally.”
Oh how wrong tu are Archer. I pity you.
“I don't know Artemis. But we must be careful. She took Kid down without a segundo thought.”
“Yeah, but Wally's not the smartest person in the world.”
“As correct as tu are Robin, she also took Superboy down.”
“Yeah...that's a little whelming.”
“Can't tu speak like a normal human?!” Artemis groaned.
“Can't become something I'm not,” Robin returned.
“Calm my friends. We must work together and por on the alert.”
“As usual, Kaldur's right,” Robin admitted.
He pulled a map up from his halo-watch. Several red dots were scattered everywhere and she was glad she was undetected.
“Ugh! I can't find any rouge person beside us! How's that possible?!”
“Maybe your watch is wrong.”
“Please Artemis. If something was wrong I would know.”
The screen suddenly shifted, as if static had interfered.
“What was that tu said?”
Robin muttered under his breath. He typed several commands on his computer, quickly riding it of the problem. The picture changed, but she was still undetected.
“I'm still not getting anything!”
She smiled beneath her mask and slipped away. Walk towards the street, she could see the martian girl tending to a very weak Superboy. Flipping a coin, she chose to use her talents to speed things up. Any thing that wasn't distinctly human would be hurt. She raised her hands to her head, allowing a syphilis stream run through her. Charging her energy, she let a strong wave of a very intolerable disease surround the area. But it was a disease she ad learned; one that didn't effect humans and only lasted 24 hours. It was all she needed. When it cleared, she saw both the clone and martian on the ground. And por the urgent cries she guessed she'd gotten the Atlantian too. With the speedster drugged, she had to get the last two before they finished the call to the Justice League. She jumped up to the building, landing on the other side. And she had landed in the light. The last two members saw her, but she was fast. Before they knew it, she had them both out with one swipe of her bo staff. She picked up the dropped com link.
“Hey. Justice League? This is Widow. Your team has failed and everything is going to fall right before you're eyes. And this is only the beginning.”
They woke up, surprised por the rush of cold water on their faces. They gasped and bolted upright. The Justice League (more importantly their mentors) stood before them.
“What happened?” Robin asked, holding his head.
“You were attacked,” the Dark Knight replied. He placed a hand on his protege's back to steady him. Robin relaxed at the familiar touch.
“Where are we?” Artemis demanded.
“In the Justice League hospital,” her mentor responded.
“Why are we here?”
“Because Wally,” Flash began. “Megan, Kaldur, and Superboy were infected with a disease.”
Wally immediately moved closer to Robin, who slapped the back of his head.
“It's not contagious,” Flash explained with an eye roll.
“Oh,” was the intelligent comeback.
“How long were we out?” Robin spoke up.
“Mmmmm about two days. tu took quite a beating; all of you.”
“What about them?” Wally asked, motioning to his three sick teammates with his head.
“It's the weirdest thing. They were cured twenty-four hours after becoming infected. But we have no idea what it is.”
“So they're okay?” Artemis asked.
“Yeah. But we don't know if it'll come back. Apparently, humans can't catch it. Only things that are even slightly altered from being human.”
“We need tu to tell us as much as tu can about your attacker,” batman suddenly announced.
“Female.”
Robin responded instantly to the sudden change of topics.
“Good. What else?”
“Prepared to fight everyone of us. Quick, talented, agile, and definatly smart.”
Everyone but his mentor looked at Robin strangely.
“Dude! How can tu pull all these adjectives out of thin air?!” Wally exclaimed.
“He's learned to adapt and observe,” batman answered. “But back to the description.”
“Umm, she carried a lot of weapons,” Wally said.
“She was able to detect the slightest sound o movement,” Artemis added.
“Was very...willing to do all she could to take us down.”
“Good Megan. Anything else?”
“Oh! She was wearing a black outfit that clung to her body, black face mask that allowed her to untie the mouth piece, eye slots, blue eyes, rusty red hair.”
Once again, Robin became the focus of everyone's attention. He looked down at his hands and mumbled incoherently.
“That's all we need. Get some rest.”
batman escorted everyone out before closing the door. The room was empty, minus it's six occupants. Robin laid back down, turning so the others couldn't see his face. He listened as they talked, making his breath even and soft. He didn't fall asleep but rather wanted them to think he did. That way, if he cried, it would seem like he'd had a nightmare. Normally, Robin would accept defeat easily. But something in those blue eyes, so much like his mother's, made his mind reel back in time, to the día his parents died. He sniffled, trying to keep the tears back. But a few slipped from behind his mask and down his cheeks.
Don't think about it. There's no need to think about it. You're just over analyzing the situation. There's nothing that should turn tu back to that day. Robin's thoughts did little to comfort him. As much as he wanted to cry and tell his team all about his past, he couldn't; batman was his father and his mentor. What kind of son would he be if he disobeyed those rules? No. He wouldn't tell anyone about his parents. He had a father now; and he'd do anything to keep him.
A soft smile graced her lips as she looked at them from the vents. She could see all of them but they couldn't see her. Looking at them through her own eyes, she wanted to cry with Robin. She knew him, his thoughts, and everything in between. To most, he was a mystery. To her though, he was a friend, a companion. Someone who just might be able to help her. The others were talking about her little bird, wondering if he was okay. They just couldn't understand and they never would; Robin wouldn't disobey his father because he was all Robin had left; the only person he could call family. That was alive anyway. But her main focus was on Robin, not his friends. His friends were whole; they knew who they were and what they would become. But her Robin didn't really know, just pretended to. It was another mask that held back another secret.
Robin...she thought sadly. Her corazón grew heavy as she saw the silent tears slide down his cheeks. She wanted to help, make him feel better. But it wasn't her place and it wasn't her talent. She was meant for fiercer things than that of someone opposite of her. And she wasn't going to be allowed to change. She'd already decided and she already knew her destiny. She knew her past and her future. She knew every plan, every scheme, every turn. And she knew what was to happen if they ever found her. Knew what would happen if they ever saw her. They just couldn't see her. It would bring a curse on them and it would bring a penalty down on her. At least, they couldn't see the real her. She shook her head, clearing it of any unwanted thoughts. She just wanted to watch Robin, observe him.
Robin. If I could change the world for you, I would. I'd give tu the world if I had the power. And that's all I need. Then, my little Robin, I'll be able to give tu your greatest desire. Even if it breaks me in two; even if it breaks my heart. I just want tu happy. And I want tu alive.
He glared at the screen in front of him. For five hours he'd done nothing but buscar and he found no hint of anyone called Widow. Nothing but Marvel's comic hero Black Widow. But that was a comic, a child's story. He growled in frustration; he hated to be clueless. Knowledge was power. If tu had the right knowledge then nothing could stop you. But everything he'd chased, any kind of lead was not to be seen even with all his technology. A soft knock sounded on the door.
“Bruce?”
Canary stuck her head in, blonde hair falling over her shoulder.
“Any luck?” she asked.
“None.”
“Well, stop. The kids are fine and it's late. tu should sleep.”
He raised an eyebrow at her from underneath his capucha, chimenea and she only noticed because she'd worked with him for so long.
“You do know what sleep is, right?”
He gave a small nod, still staring. Canary came into the room and shut the door. She came to stand before him and looked up at him.
“Bruce...are tu sure we should do this. I mean, after everything they've been through...”
“I'm not risking my son's life where I can't save him, Dinah. I'm sorry.”
“But they'll be so upset, so sad. I-I don't want to watch them get through this. How will they react? I mean, Superboy will go rouge, Aqualad will return to Atlantis, and Megan will return to Mars. Artemis will más than likely stay with Oliver and Wally with Barry. But what will it do to Robin? He's the one I'm most concerned about. He's so withdrawn. I know he wants to tell his team everything but he would never disobey you. And I know he'll get over it. But there's a part of me that wonders...if taking him away will only do más harm to him.”
Canary looked at him with sad eyes before looking down; no one could stand against the Bat-gaze.
“Is it really worth it, Bruce? Robin will be devastated. He finally has a place where he can be himself with people his own age. Have tu even taken that into consideration?”
Bruce stared at her for several minutos without responding. He knew Robin's emotions would play a big part in what was about to take place. He also knew that his son might become a very seguro person. But was his safety really that much compared to his happiness? He'd been through enough in the last four years. He was nine when his parents died for heaven's sake! And he spent most of his time endangering his life. But he found that work enjoyable, another toy that would help him learn. And if he had been watching correctly, Robin already knew something was about to happen. So either way, Bruce was left with the decision. He'd founded the team and now he had to decide: keep the team o leave it behind? Although he wanted Robin safe, he also wanted him happy. And he wouldn't want to look into his son's eyes only to find hurt and betrayal. So there was only one choice left. And it was very clear that the choice would have to come from him.
“I can see I've made tu think. I'll leave tu alone but please get some rest. And just think about your son.”
Bruce watched her leave. Canary was smart, level-headed, and never one to act on emotion. But this sudden plea of hers had Bruce thinking. Canary had sensed the emotions of the young heroes and had found the problem. She was trying to remove it, but knew only Bruce could. Therefore it made sense she had seeked him out and not any of the other League members though she must have talked to them. Without their input, she'd never have the nerve to challenge him as she had. So if all the other League members had seen it, it meant they were all giving him responsibility for the upcoming announcement. Now if only he knew what to do.
She slipped through the closing door. batman sat in a chair, thinking. She was careful to be quiet, even if he couldn't sense her o even see her. She walked to his computer, typing in a few commands. The screen flashed with a bright firing background. She typed in her name and code and instantly her perfil popped out. She turned and saw him staring through her. But she could feel his eyes mover across the screen. The information had seeped into her brain long ago. Even before she was alive.
Name: Devin “Widow” Dare
Residence: Currently the human world
Occupation: Minor, trained assassin
Abilities: Flight, heat vision, speed, gymnastics, invisibility, magic
Relatives: None
History: Devin has been trained since birth. She's had schooling until she was twelve. Mastering the art of fighting at the age of five, Devin was moved to the upper-class of students. Her loyalty is questionable but her talents are needed. She is cunning and quick on the up-take leaving everyone else behind. The teachers adore and fear her. She is known to have magic overdose and can be a threat to many of us. W must keep her separated. Was once an ángel of Light.
Talents: Magic spells, jinx powers, sorceress, dark magic, demon powers
Species: Dark Angel
Master: Sensai Turron. Must be watched carefully.
The information that had been hidden away was revealed and she knew the consequences for doing it and helping out a human. But Sensai had told her to do what she can to help so they might lead her to the treasure she seeked. And it was foolish to disobey your Sensai; it would only lead to treason. And treason was immediate sentence to the devil himself. Even she wouldn't dare go there. So she'd stayed in the human world at her Sensai's command. Besides, she had a special message to deliver. And she couldn't fail; she never failed. She felt him staring at the computer again. She eyed him and followed when he got up to leave the room. Devin walked close behind him, wanting to keep close so she wouldn't loose him. He opened the door to the hospital wing and she followed him through the door to the Young Justice.
They looked when he entered, all except Robin who was asleep. She knew because she happily watched him slip into his dreams. She walked to his bed, standing at the head board. Now Devin was out of the way and able to see everyone. Silently, she placed her hand on Robin's head, ruffling the silky black hair. Because she wasn't “real” at the moment, it seemed as if he had roused himself from sleep. She smiled when he sat up and blinked at his mentor.
“We need to talk,” batman said.
The others shared looks but Devin sat on the cama with Robin, who just stared expectantly at the Dark Knight. She brushed her hand against his skin, feeling how smooth it was. Robin looked down and, finding no trace as to what had touched him, shuddered.
“Your attacker. Tell me how much tu saw of her.”
They blinked before Wally spoke up.
“Umm, I could see her back before she....”
Wally coughed and his voice trailed off. batman raised any eyebrow and Robin giggled before explaining.
“She moved faster than Wally and he ended up in that water.”
“Dude!”
Devin smiled as Robin laughed again. She saw Batman's lips turn up slightly. But then he was back to buisness.
“What else?”
“She was very tall and slim,” Kaldur answered.
“She was definatly able to mover quick enough to take Wally and Superboy out,” Artemis grumbled.
“She seemed unaffected por my psychic blasts,” Megan whispered almost sadly.
“Gymnast,” Robin stated, looking at something on his halo watch.
“How would tu know?” Wally asked, still upset his best friend had sold him out.
“Because of the way she moved. She was flexible, powerful. She not only was light on her feet but she was able to go from one position to the siguiente without hurting herself. She moved through the air like she was flying. Not many people can do that easily. She's a gymnast.”
Robin's voice had grown quiet the longer he talked. Devin wanted to say she was sorry for making think about his parents. But it was against her Sensai's rules. Never say sorry unless under authority. She touched his arm again with gentle fingers, stroking it softly. This time, Robin only looked up at the touch. He seemed...at ease por her touch. A smile graced her lips again and she could tell he saw it even if he never saw her.
“Your attacker,” batman said, bringing their attention back to the matter at hand.
“What about her?” Artemis asked. She wanted to change the topic quickly.
“She's an assassin.”
Devin smirked when their faces turned a shade lighter. She loved to see fear in people; she feed upon it. It was what had helped her before.
“W-why didn't she kill us?”
Robin's voice betrayed his fear. Devin smiled at him, her resolution softening.
“I don't know. She called herself Widow. And I couldn't find any trace of her. But, somehow, my computer found a lead, opened up a link. Robin, did tu hack it?”
Robin shook his head quickly. Of course he didn't; he didn't know her name.
“No sir. I didn't hack the computer. I wasn't even hacking a thing since we got here.”
Devin shot batman a look. How dare he accuse Robin! I'm the one who did it moron! Punish me!
“I'm just making sure. Now, the Justice League has been...concerned for your safety,” batman announced with a glance around the room. “I want to shut down this team.”
Horrified looks and gasps escaped the young heroes in the room. Shut them down? But that wasn't fair! They were okay, better than ever.
“But the League has persuaded me not to.”
Robin persuaded you, idiot. Don't deny it.
Devin smiled at the relief on their faces.
“So you'll be staying together. But that means no separating, no leaving someone, and definatly stay inside the mountain unless one of the League is with you. Understood?”
They all nodded yes and batman turned.
“For tonight you'll stay here. We'll head out early.”
Devin smiled as they began to chatter. But Robin didn't registrarse in. He stared at something he'd pulled out of his utility belt. She moved to sit closer to him. Her smile disappeared when she saw the picture of his parents. He had turned away so the others wouldn't see his tears, but she saw them.
“Why'd tu have to go?” he breathed almost inaudibly. “I miss tu so much!”
Devin moved so she faced him. She placed a hand over his, squeezing lightly. He didn't look up, stared at the picture. But a small smile tugged his lips upwards; a sign that he'd felt it. Devin's other hand brushed tears off his face and she kissed his forehead.
“Robin?”
Devin looked over the young bird's head at Wally, who was coming closer. She took the picture, slipping it under the almohada before Wally saw. She used magic to clear the tear stains off Robin's face so there'd be no questions. He turned his head to look at the red-head.
“Are tu okay?” Wally asked.
He sat beside his friend, knees curled up to his chest. Devin looked into Wally's forest green eyes. He blinked several times; he had felt her presence.
“Yeah. I'm just tired. This has been a rough couple of days.”
Wally nodded in understanding, leaning against the foot board.
“I know. It's been quite a challenge. But we'll get through this. We always do.”
Robin smiled softly, eyes on the hand that Devin covered. She looked at Wally again. He shook his head, blinking fiercely.
“Man, is someone here?”
“I don't know. I keep feeling someone touch me, kissed my forehead. Even right now my hand is covered.”
“Well this is really weird. I have the feeling someone's watching us.”
“Me too. But nothing bad will happen.”
“How do tu know?” Wally asked, cocking his head.
“I don't. I just have this feeling that everything will be okay.”
Wally stared at him for a long while and Robin dropped his head. Devin squeezed his hand again. He craned his head up, eyes closed.
“She's here,” he whispered.
“How do tu know it's a girl?”
Robin smiled gently.
“Because I heard her voice.”
“She spoke to you?”
“No. That's the weird part. I think she was transferring her thoughts into my head. Like telepathy. But her thoughts were soft, sweet. Not gentle, just...sweet.”
Wally stared some más before touching Robin's forehead with his hand.
“Are tu sick? Maybe tu took a harder fall then we thought.”
Robin waved Wally's hand away, bringing his head back down to look at his friend.
“At least I didn't fall into the water.”
Wally groaned loudly, causing the others to look at him.
“What are tu talking about?” Artemis asked.
“Robin's hearing voices,” Wally hissed.
Artemis raised an eyebrow.
“Are tu sure Robin's the one hearing voices?”
A pleased cackle broke into the air as Wally turned to pout.
“I'm serious! Come over here. I'm telling tu someone's here!”
Devin smiled as Artemis joined the two on the bed. Devin brought a hand out to stroke Artemis' neck and she was gifted with wide eyes.
“Oh my-! tu guys, there really is something here!”
“I don't sense anybody,” Megan said.
“I felt hands on my neck! Come over here!”
The other three shared looks before complying to Artemis' request. They all sat on the bed. Devin looked at the martian girl; she knew a few martian tricks. Megan yelped as Devin ran her finger nails over Megan's knee lightly. But there were very light marks. Next, she touched Kaldur's tattoos, causing them to pulse brightly. And she ran her hand over Superboy's arm. But her hand never left Robin's. They all stared in shock and surprise. Except Robin who looked content.
“Oh my-I can't believe it just happened!”
“It's okay Megan,” Robin assured. “She won't hurt you.”
“How are tu so relaxed?!” Wally exclaimed.
“I don't know. It's like-like someone is inside me, keeping me at ease. I honestly have no idea what's happening.”
“Don't worry Young Justice,” Devin said. “I'm not going to hurt you.”
“See?”
The others looked at Robin.
“See what?” Wally asked.
Robin's eyebrows knit together.
“Didn't tu hear her? She dicho she wasn't going to harm us.”
They exchanged looks.
“They can't hear me Robin,” Devin explained.
“Why not?” Robin asked.
“Because I'm not here for them. I'm here for you.”
“Me? Why me?”
“I have a message.”
“From who?”
“Your parents.”
Robin's eyes widened and he looked over to where Devin sat. The others just stared at him in confusion; who was he talking to?
“What does it say?” Robin asked gently.
“They say They amor you, they're proud of you. They miss tu and they're sorry they can't be here.”
“But it wasn't their fault! If Two-Face hadn't shown up-”
“I know. They know. tu know. That's all that matters.”
“Can tu tell me why they sent it now?”
“Yes. Your parents saw me before they died. They didn't know tu were okay. But they saw tu several weeks ago. They had to hunt me down. And now I'm delivering their message.”
Robin bowed his head, tears falling from behind his mask. He sniffled as he looked back up at Devin.
“Who are you?” he whispered.
“My name is Devin. I too lost my parents when I was young.”
“What happened to them?”
“They fell.”
“I'm sorry. Did tu see it happen?”
“Yes. But that's not the point. I'm here to watch over you.”
“Are tu an angel?”
“Yes Robin. I am an angel. But not the kind you're thinking of.”
“What kind of ángel are you?”
“I'm a Dark Angel. But not por choice. I became one when I flew after my parents. tu see, some ángeles die and never come back. Others die and become demons. But there is a small number of angel's that have fallen into hell. Then we become Dark Angels.”
“Oh. Did they fall from heaven?”
“Who Robin?”
“Your parents.”
“Yes, little bird. They did.”
“Why'd tu call me that?”
“What? Little Bird?”
“Yeah. I'm not that much shorter than everyone else.”
“I know. I call tu little bird because I've watched over tu for thirteen years. And I've seen how tu fly without wings.”
“That makes sense.”
The sun was streaming in through the window but no body noticed. They were still staring at Robin, listening to his one-sided conversation. They didn't know who he was talking to o even why he was talking. He was never one to trust instinct, relying on his sense. But they didn't see o hear anything. And Megan sensed no other person.
“Hey why can't my friends see you?” Robin asked, cocking his head.
Devin smiled and she giggled softly.
“Because little bird. They do not believe that I am here.”
“How come?”
“Well, they don't want to believe that something they can't see is real.”
“Oh.”
Robin curled up on the bed, his head resting on Devin's lap. She smiled down at him though he couldn't see her.
“Are tu going to stay here Devin?” he whispered.
“No. I follow you; I was meant to watch over you.”
Robin smiled, eyes closing. He let out a small yawn before curling in closer.
“I'm glad you're coming with me Devin.”
Devin looked down surprised. Robin was already asleep, but she stroked his head as tears formed in her eyes.
“Me too Robin. I'll always be here. I'll always watch over you.”
“Devin?”
Robin's voice called out to her when he awoke in the Young Justice mountain/base. He had been placed in his cama and, as he sat up, he looked around for Devin.
“I'm here Robin.”
Her voice came from beside him. He turned so he faced her.
“What's wrong, Robin?” she asked.
“I thought I dreamed you. I wanted to know if tu were real.”
A small laugh escaped her lips.
“Don't worry little bird. I am real.”
“How can I be sure? I can't see you.”
“Here. Right in front of tu is one of my wings. Touch it, tell me how it feels.”
Robin reached out his hand, feeling soft feathers. They were silky and smooth, warm and textured. But most importantly, they were real.
“What do tu feel?” Devin asked.
“Soft, silky feathers. They're warm and fluffy. Have a nice texture too.”
“How does it feel?”
“Solid. Real.”
“There. tu see? I'm as real as tu are.”
“But the others...”
“Can't believe that I'm here. They refuse to except what they can not explain. Especially Wally.”
“You know KF?”
“Robin, I told tu I follow you. I've seen you're friends and I know much about them. Wally is a man of science. He doesn't believe in the supernatural o magic. Everything is different for him.”
“But I'm a lot like him.”
“Yes but...you're experienced with certain types of supernatural o magical affairs. There is a tu believe in yet tu still believe. Therefore, tu can hear me.”
“How come I can't see tu Devin?”
“Because little bird, believe isn't seeing. When tu believe in me much stronger, I will mostrar myself to you.”
“When will that be?” Robin whispered.
“That all depends on you.”
Robin looked at the place Devin's voice was coming from. He cocked his head and stared at her.
“Robin, why do tu stare?”
“I want to see if I can trace your form.”
“You want to see the outline of me?”
“Yeah.”
Devin looked down and started to mumble something Robin couldn't hear. But a slow shape started to appear before him; Devin's outline. She was sitting cross-legged, hands in her lap. Her wing were tucked gently behind her back and he could just barley see her hair running over her shoulder.
“Are tu satisfied?” Devin whispered.
“For now.”
The door to his room suddenly opened and Wally came in. Robin turned his head to face his best friend, seeing Devin's outline fade away.
“Hi Wally.”
“Hey.”
“What can I do for you?”
Wally scratched the back of his neck.
“Um, can I ask tu something?”
“Sure.”
Wally came and sat on Robin's bed. He faced his friend as he leaned against the wall.
“You remember when we were talking and tu dicho tu heard someone talking?”
Robin nodded his head.
“Do you-uh-do tu think it was the person who attacked us?”
Robin blinked a few times behind his glasses. He sat silently, thinking over Wally's pregunta and all that Devin had told him. Finally he spoke.
“I don't know. Let me ask.”
Robin saw the disbelief in Wally's eyes as he turned to face the ángel beside him.
“Devin?”
“Yes?”
“Did tu hear Wally's question?”
“Yes little bird.”
“Can tu answer it for me?”
“Yes. I will. I am a Dark ángel but I live in the human world. I've learned many things Robin. And those abilities helped me to attack you.”
“Why'd tu do it? batman dicho tu were an assassin. Why didn't tu kill us before?”
“Because Robin. It's true I'm an assassin, but I would never kill young heroes like this crew. I was, in fact, warding off other demons and blood-thirsty Dark ángeles from the team. The only way to do that is to defeat tu and mark tu as mine.”
“Where are the marks?”
“On your hands, Robin. They are cast with a protective spell. If ever tu are in danger tu can't handle, than your mark will appear and it will save tu until I arrive.”
“So, you're every one's angel.”
“In a way, yes. But my powers are strongest in you. My Sensai bonded me to you. I watch over you, guard you, help you.”
“Oh.”
“What'd you're ángel friend say Rob?” Wally asked, cutting into the conversation.
Robin repeated what Devin had dicho but there was still doubt in Wally's eyes.
“You don't believe that Devin's real.”
It was a statement, not a question.
“No. How come tu can hear her but the rest of us can't?”
“Devin dicho it's because tu don't believe in magic o the supernatural.”
“Well yeah because it doesn't exist.”
“But you're supernatural. You've got super-speed! How can tu not believe Devin's real compared to...to...Miss Martian o Green Lantern o even Superboy? They're all combined to some supernatural force. And so are you.”
Wally opened and shut his mouth several times. His eyes were wide and Robin feared he had broken Wally's brain. But a small laugh broke the silence in the room.
“What was that?!”
“What do tu mean?” Robin asked, a smirk on his face.
“That laugh. Where'd it come from?!”
“You heard it?”
“Duh! Why else would I ask about it?”
“Well done Robin. tu just set Wally straight.”
“Oh my-who was that?!”
“Devin.”
“The angel-freak?”
“I'm no más of a freak than tu are Wally.”
Robin laughed at that, his famous cackle breaking free from his lips.
“Dude! Your guardian ángel just called me a freak and you're laughing?”
“I-I'm sorry...Wally. I-It was just so...funny.”
As Robin continued to laugh, a very feminine laugh joined his.
“Why does everybody hate me?” Wally asked, curling into a ball.
“Wally.”
He looked up at the sound of his name and could've sworn he saw two amazing blue eyes staring at him.
“I'm sorry I upset you. I'm a Dark Angel; sometimes it's hard to be kind to...certain people.”
“What do tu mean?”
“Well, I know when Artemis first joined the team tu weren't so happy to see her. But tu adjusted to a situation tu couldn't change. It's the same for me. I'm here on Earth to protect and serve Young Justice but I'm a Dark Angel. It's a strange situation.”
Robin had finally calmed down as Devin had explained her theology to Wally. Now he sat, eyes on Wally, waiting to hear his reaction.
“That's actually pretty smart Devin. I had no idea Dark Angel's were so educated.”
“Please. Most of them aren't. But I am because I wasn't born a Dark Angel.”
“Her parent's fell and she ended up in hell trying to catch them,” Robin explained with a gentle tone. “Her parents died. But Devin became a Dark Angel.”
Wally nodded his head, looking around the room. He was still stunned that Robin had been able to change Wally's mind and cause him to hear Devin's voice.
“So does this mean Devin does whatever we ask her to?”
“I don't know. Devin?”
“I'm here to serve. There is a however and I'm here, mostly, for Robin's sake.”
“Why Rob?” Wally asked. “I mean he's my best friend and all but why him?”
“Well, why not Robin? I've watched him for about thirteen years. If tu were able to see, know, and understand his life, tu would realize how little he actually has. I don't mean society wise. I mean the things that truly cause integrity and value in a person. Those kinds of gifts are not easily applied but Robin has them. They're just so little compared to his actual potential and value.”
Both Robin and Wally were silent when Devin finished. They were slowly processing it in their heads, understanding what Devin meant. She'd dicho so much about him in just a few sentences. And they didn't even know what she was about to say next; it made the moment even más touching, even más memorable then before.
“Robin is the type of person every body likes. And although immature at points, he's level-headed. Not only that, but every single person he meets, the people who know him, are the ones who can't live without him. They're the ones that wouldn't want to live without him. Robin's too valuable to loose.”
Devin's voice was sincere, her tone gentle but smiling. Her words were truthful and loving. She watched both teens as Robin tried to hold back the tears Devin had caused; but they were tears of affectionate emotion. Wally bit his lip as he stared at his best friend, wondering what he could do to help.
“Take the mask off Wally. Both tu and I know his identity. It won't matter to Robin if Dick Grayson cries.”
Wally scooted closer to Robin, gently pulling the mask off of those electric blue eyes. And those eyes were tender, questioning, and affected.
“Was Devin true? Is it true what she said?” the young boy whispered.
“Every word, Dick. Every single word.”
Dick bit his lip before throwing his arms around Wally's neck, hugging him tightly. Wally returned the embrace even as he felt cold tears soak through his shirt. Devin opened her wings and, with a gentle touch, spread them over the two heroes, hiding them from sight.
Talon
Samantha Jones
