Young Justice: Kage

Chapter 7: Targets

Canary and Green Arrow look at Batman in surprise. "Are you sure about this?" asks Arrow.

"The government has given us permission to send one representative. He has the abilities to accomplish the mission," says Batman.

"No one is arguing his skills. The problem is that he doesn't have a way to communicate with others at the summit. That could be a liability," argues Canary.

Batman turns away from the monitor to face Canary and Arrow. "The lack of communication didn't stop him from taking command of the mission in Biayla. He was able to pull the team together to rescue Superboy and retrieve stolen alien technology. As a former mercenary he has revealed that most of his missions focused on bodyguard detail." The Dark Knight turns back around typing at the monitor. "Any member of the League that is sent will stand out too much. Aqualad and Robin are the next clear choices, but Naruto is more likely to stay hidden. Only acting when necessary."

Canary comes up beside Batman. "Those are excellent points, but what is the true reason? Is this a test to see if he is ready for the League?"

A tap of the button brings up an image of Japan's Prime Minister. The computer translate the speech into English so that Canary and Arrow can understand. "These past few months an unknown hero has been helping to save lives all over Japan. An honorable hero that doesn't seek glory and fame. Our country possesses a noble hero that fights each day to protect us. The hero, Kage, I declare him a citizen of Japan. He shall forever be welcome in our country!"

Arrow whistles, "The kid is getting some major recognition."

"Three days ago, he saved the Prime Minister's son from an assassination attempt. There are money offers from every news station for pictures of Japan's Hero." Batman closes the screen. "This will be a good opportunity to give him a chance to reveal his identity as more than a shadow. The League is already generating enough suspicion and press since most of our members are from a single country or aliens."

Understanding appears in Canary's eyes. "So you want to use him to show that heroes from other countries are aligned with the League as well," realizes Canary.

"I still think sending a seventeen year old isn't going to look all that great," says Arrow.

"I agree, but Batman does have a point. Naruto is the best option out of the rest on the team," Arrow shrugs not having much interaction with the team. Batman sends a transmission for Naruto meet at the cave.

Mount Justice, September 7th

"Recognized Kage, Bo6"

The ninja walks towards Batman who is waiting. "There is a peace summit in Taipei between the leaders of North and South Rhelasia. Both sides are currently at an impasse and in a couple hours will be bringing in a neutral arbitrator to meditate between the two sides." Naruto remains silent waiting to hear the complete details of the mission before asking questions. "Your responsibility is to protect the leaders of the North and South Rhelasia, Singh Manh Li and Tseng." Two individuals appear on the screen. In an instant Naruto memorizes each individual.

"The arbitrator?"

"Is currently unknown and not your responsibility," states Batman.

"Understood."

This is one of the things that Batman likes most about Naruto. The kid doesn't waste around with pointless small talk. Straight to the point. Get the details and get on with the mission.

"When you arrive stick to the shadows and don't reveal your presence unless absolutely necessary. The Zeta Tubes are programmed to transport you a half mile away from the peace summit building. Head out once you have the coordinates," orders Batman.