Creote is a character created by Gail Simone for the Birds of Prey series.
History[]
Creote is a Soviet Special Forces (KGB) operative. At some point, he met and partnered with the vigilante/villain Savant, who he is largely subordinate to. This loyalty has led Creote to aid and follow Savant in any way he can, even traveling to the United States and Gotham City. It is implied that part of Creote's duties is helping Savant with his mental disorder.
During his first appearance, Creote is helping Savant execute an extortion scheme; the aim is to force Oracle to divulge Batman's secret identity. As part of the plan, they kidnap Black Canary, and hold her hostage. During her time in their custody, to Creote's surprise, Black Canary is able to accurately pinpoint that Creote is in love with Savant. Savant is oblivious to the former's feelings.
Soon, Black Canary is rescued by Huntress, and the Birds of Prey defeat Creote and Savant. Later, Creote still dutifully aids Savant after Oracle has encouraged the latter to begin fighting crime again. Throughout his time as a hero and ally of the Birds, Creote is noticeably devoted to Savant. This sometimes causes awkward situations resulting from Lady Blackhawk's attempts to capture his attention.
Eventually, Creote and the Birds part ways when Savant claims that his debt to Oracle has ended. However, Creote is later seen working with the Birds again, and in his motherland. He is used as a way for the Birds to access an exclusive former-KGB leader's auction of old Rocket Red suits. Near the end of the mission, he is present for the rebirth of the heroine Ice, whom he and the other local Russians called "the Goddess".
Powers and Abilities[]
In the Spetsnaz GRU, Creote was highly trained in extreme methods of hand to hand combat and physically trained to deter, capture or kill hostile agents, saboteurs, bandits, and other criminal elements. He would also have received training in reconnaissance and sabotage.