Rico watched with hidden amusement as Tula and her boyfriend Garth argued. He could hear the conversation. Garth wanted to spend time together but Tula was insisting she could not leave the safety of the Queen to a bunch of mercenaries. But Rico could tell from the glances at him that it was not about that and the Queen could tell as well.
Queen Mera was sneaking glances at Rico who was still waiting for them to leave. Red Robin, Superboy, and Wonder Girl had already left but were waiting outside for Garth. Waylon was standing at the door. Once Rico got started with Queen Mera and Tula he would switch places with the two female guards that were standing outside the door.
—-------------------
Something was wrong about this situation. But Tim just could not place his finger on it. And it was not just the fact that Queen of Atlantis was getting impatient about them leaving. That was clearly something else entirely that he had decided to not get involved in. Although Garth would probably get caught in the middle regardless.
"The United States Army… why do I feel like something is off about this whole thing." Superboy pointed out.
"Probably because something is." Tim answered with a chuckle. "Deathstroke was not picked up by the United States Army. Last we checked General Lane reported that the army was working on creating their own supersolder not hiring mercenaries. But I have a feeling Mister Bell has an insight into something that we do not."
"What did Babs tell you?" Cassie asked.
"Nothing yet. But I have a feeling it will take awhile anyways. Once she got the use of her legs she decided to leave the proverbial nest. She rarely sits in her tower for long. I might need to take a seat for a bit and do digital support especially with how much we are lacking information." Tim informed them as he glanced at the door as it opened. "Are you done arguing with Tula?"
"Yes, she wishes to stay and protect the Queen. But I feel like something is wrong." Garth pointed out and Tim just shook his head.
—-------------------
Barbara sighed as she finished the information package for not just Tim but the others as well. As soon as it was done she started pressing a few buttons and the automated systems of the tower began activating. With the last one being the new Artificial Intelligence a new Oracle that would take over her role.
She had been working on it for years now. But now it was time to put it to the test. Because she had decided she needed to be out in the world. Helping people and following this investigation wherever it would lead.
"Oracle Program Activated!"
The computer announced before the computer deck began pulling up into the ceiling along with the rest of the tech and shelves that were in the clocktower. She stepped back and watched as the lights in the room went dark.
She sighed as she walked into the elevator and took it down. When she arrived at the garage she stepped out and stopped as she looked at who was waiting for her.
"Cassandra and Damien. It is nice to see you both. How can I help you?" Barbara asked as she walked past them and checked her motorcycle as she was about to leave. Her bag was packed and she was ready to go.
"Did… did I do something wrong? Is that why you are wearing the uniform again? I swore I have tried my best." Cassandra started in a panic. She was in her Batgirl outfit at the moment but she had her mask off and looked hurt.
"No," Barbara shook her head. "You did not do anything wrong. I just need to go. This massive puzzle that has been presented to us can not be solved by simply staying around Gotham. I need to head out and start putting the pieces together. But if you ever need my advice you know how you can contact me."
Cassandra dipped her head as she nodded. "I will keep up my training and do my best. Thank you… for being my mentor." In a rare moment she smiled at Barbara.
Barbara nodded and then turned to Damien. The newest member of the Batfamily. "Damien…"
"I… Alfred told me to come. Father refused to come. He is… annoyed with you. But looking at the massive mystery before us, I am sure even he understands." Damien told her and then turned away with a pout.
Barbara crouched in front of him. "Damien, you do not have to stay in his shadow forever. All of your brothers and even as the others are figuring out or learning how to step away and be their own person. That is what you need to figure out eventually as well."
"I… understand. I already feel like I need to step out on my own. Can I…" Damien blushed a little as he looked away. "Contact you if I need advice as well?"
"Anytime." Barbara smiled. "I will never be far for help. Not to mention-" She stood up with a grunt flinching at the pinch of pain the cybernetics in her back gave. "The Oracle Program has my voice and it is quite soothing for most."
"For most?" Cassandra asked with a teary chuckle.
Barbara smirked as her eyes lit up with amusement. "I made it sassy for Bruce." She informed them as she moved over and climbed onto her motorcycle putting on a helmet before zipping up her jacket. "Just don't use his phone to contact me. I plan to leave him on hold."
She revved up her engine before shooting off toward the exit. It was time to find what she has been missing with the disappearance of these for-hire and freelance criminals and mercenaries.