章 14: Contingencies and Camping?

As I was conversing with Artoria, the rest of the team slowly gathered around, staring at the dismembered android in shock.

"Dude, that was amazing!" Kid Flash exclaimed. "The way you two just ripped through that tin can was awesome!"

"I must agree, your battle prowess is quite impressive," added Aqualad with an appraising look.

Robin knelt down to examine the sparking remains of Mr. Twister. "These are some crazy advanced hydraulics and circuitry. Definitely more complex than anything I've seen before."

"By the way who's the cutie?" The young speedster asked pointing at Artoria who was standing beside me.

"This is Saber you can think of her as a type of summon," I said

She gave the team a bright smile. "Nice to meetcha! I'm Saber, Legend's strongest partner." She announced buffing out her chest.

"Wow, you're lucky your power is that you can summon a cute girl. How does that work?" Kid Flash asked, looking between me and Artoria.

"You can think of it as a type of magic," I replied calmly.

"So you are also a practitioner of mystical arts. I studied for some time in the mystical arts at the Conservatory of Sorcery. " Aqualad said.

"That's impressive I'd be interested to see some of what you learned sometime," I replied honestly.

"Wait don't tell me you actually believe in that in that charade?" Wally questioned.

"You can believe what you want and I'll do the same. By the way, where is Miss Martian." I asked knowingly in an effort to change the subject.

When they heard my question they suddenly became embarrassed. It was then that I heard a voice in my head.

'Listen to me, all of you... Wait Eli you here too?'

'Yeah don't worry I already took care of the Android.'

...

Afterward, we brought the destroyed robot back to the cave. After a brief description between us and Red Tornado, I left the cave to return home. Though in hindsight I wish I had stuck around a little longer, because as soon as I got back I was met with a less than pleased Scathach.

In the living room, I sat on the couch with Scathach facing me her arms crossed as she questioned me, her face not showing any outward emotions. but there was something in her voice that led me to believe that she was angry.

"So you went out to battle your first supervillain and didn't think to bring me along?" She questioned.

"I apologize, I know how much you enjoy a good fight, but I promise to bring you along on the next mission. Ok?"

"You promise?"

"Of course."

"Ok. Then let us continue your training." And with that said she stood up and walked toward the basement.

...

(Batman's POV)

I sat in the Batcave, reviewing footage of Legend in action against the android known as Mister Twister. His abilities - summoning and using magic runes were major unknowns. I disliked unknowns.

As useful an ally as Legend could be, the potential threat he posed if compromised was far too high to ignore. I needed to develop countermeasures, and contingency plans to neutralize him should the worst come to pass. The League often scoffed at my contingencies, but only fools leave themselves totally exposed to those with power.

His physical abilities seemed enhanced but the greater threat came from his magic and these Summons. Their capabilities were vague but clearly formidable, if that swords-woman was any indication.

Perhaps Zatara could advise me. It was distasteful work, plotting against an ally. But the safety of the world had to take priority. I only hoped these contingencies would never require use. Until I fully understood Legend's powers, some healthy vigilance was only prudent. Time would tell whether he could truly be trusted. I would continue to watch him closely.

...

(Eli's POV)

Two days after my battle with Amazo I was still being worked hard by Scathach who I was certain was holding a grudge. In the midst of another one of our sparring sessions, I got a call from Miss Martian.

"Hello?"

"Hey Eli, Wally had the idea of going camping and I just wondering if you wanted to come. I invited the whole team." Hmm, I don't remember this happening in the show, and I don't think Wally intended for this to become a team activity. But I guess if the rest of the team is going it would be strange if I didn't go.

After a brief pause, I responded. "Alright sounds fun."

"Really that's great!"

"Ok, I'll be there soon." Hanging up I turned to Scathach and asked. "Hey, you wanna go camping?"

"I'll have to decline I will continue to train."

"Alright suit yourself. I'll go ask the others." I said turning around I gave a brief wave and headed upstairs to find the others. Upstairs I found Artoria playing a video game I didn't recognize in the living room. It was some sort of 3D fighting game that focused on swords-based combat.

"Hey, you wanna go camping?"

"Camping sounds boring." She responded not taking her eyes off the screen.

"There's gonna be stargazing."

"Let's go!" she said immediately abandoning her controller.

"Alright hold on I'll go ask Katou."

Walking down the hall I came to Katou's room and knocked on the door. "Hey, Katou can I come in?"

"Wha!? Uh yes c-come in"

Opening the door I saw Katou sitting on her bed. Her room reflected her practical yet sentimental nature. The decor was simple - tatami mat floors, and plain wooden furnishings. A low table sits surrounded by cushions.

One wall displays a collection of Japanese swords, daggers, and other weaponry, all meticulously cared for. Nearby hung a large scroll depicting a moonlit cherry blossom tree. I could see the stuffed cat I won for her slightly sticking out from under her pillow.

"Wanna go camping?" I asked ignoring her slightly flustered appearance.

"Oh, camping huh, Sounds fun It's been a while since I've been able to be surrounded by nature."

"Alright we're leaving now, I hate being late."