Oliver Queen arrived at Wayne Manor under the cover of night, the pallid glow of moonlight illuminating his path, he felt an unfathomable dread mixing with the chilly air. His instincts told him that something was brewing — something dangerous which now led to him being here.
Upon his arrival, the magnificent corridors of the manor seemed simultaneously inviting and ominous. Bruce had made arrangements for his visitor; the flickering flames of the hearth created shadows that waltzed across the gleaming oak furnishings. Oliver inhaled deeply, pushing aside the anxiety that had been eating away at him for weeks.
"Welcome, Oliver," Bruce said, his voice low yet commanding. "I trust you're not here for a social call in the middle of the night."
Oliver chuckled slightly, seeking comfort in their camaraderie, but his steely gaze revealed his serious intent. "No, this isn't a casual visit, Bruce. I think we have a serious problem on our hands."
"Go on," Bruce urged, leaning forward, his interest piqued.
Oliver recounted the occurrences that took place a few nights prior.
"They've been hitting the outskirts of Star City, but I fear it's only a matter of time before they set their sights on something bigger. A shapeshifter could wreak untold havoc, turning friends into foes and creating chaos amidst the already fragile balance of our world. But what has me truly worried is the nagging feeling that I've encountered this particular shapeshifter before."
Bruce considered this revelation gravely. He had faced many foes — Bane, the Joker, and Ra's al Ghul, to name a few — yet the potential of someone who could masquerade as anyone was a chilling prospect, even clay face had issues with his morphs, water being one of his main weaknesses. The implications were immense. "The ability to become anyone… It would make him nearly impossible to track," he said quietly.
"I believe it's the same threat we faced just a month ago, the one that vanished without a trace, leaving us with more questions than answers."
"We need to meticulously sift through the reports, searching for anything that pertains to doppelgangers, as well as any incidents of disappearances and subsequent reappearances. Time is of the essence; we must act swiftly before panic ensues. If they possess the ability to transform into anyone or anything, the stakes are even higher than we initially anticipated."
"Exactly," Oliver replied, tension evident in his tone. "Imagine if he posed as one of us — or worse, one of our proteges."
Bruce mentally shuttered at such a thought, Their thoughts drifted to those they mentored: Roy Harper, Dick Grayson, and others.
"Speaking of sidekicks," Oliver continued, steering the conversation toward a topic that had been brewing in his mind, "I know you've been working on a project inspired by the need for greater unity amongst our protégés. I want in on this to form a more structured group — a team that can stand together, learn from each other, and strategize against threats like the one you just described."
Bruce raised an eyebrow, surprised Oliver even knew of his little side project that he had been discussing with Superman.
"I figured it would be more effective than just the two of us rescuing them every time they stumble into danger," Bruce replied. "Imagine if we could provide them with the tools, the training, and the support they need to tackle these threats on their own. It prepares them for what's to come."
"I see the merit in this idea," Oliver admitted. "Having a united front can enhance our effectiveness. They'll learn to trust each other, forming bonds that could prove essential in crises. How do you envision this team operating?"
"I propose we hold training sessions, team-building exercises, and tactical drills," Bruce suggested. "Power in numbers and collective strategizing can make a real difference. We also need to instill a sense of responsibility. The risks we take don't only affect us; they have a ripple effect."
Oliver nodded thoughtfully, appreciating the depth of their conversation. The two continued to delve into the intricacies of their plan for a while longer, exchanging ideas and insights that flowed seamlessly between them. Eventually, feeling the need to step away and let the ideas simmer, Oliver made himself scarce, quietly slipping out of the room and leaving Bruce to ponder to himself.
"You're free to come out now, Dick," Bruce remarked.
From a shadowy corner of the room, Dick Grayson emerged, a mischievous grin lighting up his face, as if he had just uncovered a delightful secret.
"So, I guess I'm gonna be on a team," he said, his voice filled with a mix of excitement and uncertainty.
Bruce smiled slightly, a knowing glint in his eye, before shaking his head. "Yes and no. For now, I believe it would be wise for you to get some rest. You do have school tomorrow, after all."
Dick groaned in protest, the weight of impending responsibilities already bearing down on him, but he ultimately relented. With a reluctant sigh, he bid Bruce farewell, as he made his way to bed.