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Post by Trailfoot on Jan 1, 2011 13:39:44 GMT -5
East Gotham Theater Near Crime Alley
"... Shit."
The Question stood in a square formation with Batgirl, Huntress, and Lady Shiva, each one guarding the backs of the other three. The ground was littered with fallen members of the Order of Stone, but they kept coming.
And Question's arms were starting to get tired.
"They do run out of these guys eventually, don't they?" Batgirl had a cut on her cheek and another on her arm, both of which had found time to clot in the time they had been fighting. She had run out of batarangs nearly five minutes ago, and was stuck fighting bare-handed - not her preference as far as ways to deal with a neverending horde of master martial artists went. Of the four of them, she was flagging fastest - she felt as if her arms and legs were made of lead as she fought.
"We fight until they do, or we are dead." Shiva's competence at martial arts was matched only by matter-of-factness with which she approached life. The woman was considered the greatest martial artist in the world, and the fact that she had yet to sustain any more than a glancing blow attested to that fact - Question's ribs ached with every kick, and Huntress had a dozen bruises on her body. Still, even Shiva was moving more slowly than she had been a few minutes before.
"Or until Bast and Robin get here. Oracle's reporting them less than a minute away." Batgirl barely blocked a knife from the man she was fighting, managing to drop low and sweep his feet from under him before delivering a disabling blow to his neck. "Though they'll likely have to get through the crowd outside to reach us."
Outsiders HQ
"Batmobile. There are a group of twelve more members of the Order of the Stone outside the theater. They've got two dozen inside, apart from the ones who are engaged with Batgirl and the others. No sign of Bane or Shiv. Reed and Booster are en route on foot, but you'll be arriving three minutes before them." Why there? That's where Bruce watched Zorro... where he had his last happy memories before his parents were killed. Coincidence, or something worse? The green ring on her hand shone brightly, drawing in information that even her control of cyberspace would never give her. I could join them... but they're ready for this. What they need is information, not someone else in there slinging energy constructs about. "Connor's dealing with a Lexbot, but once he's done with that I'll have him join you if you need him. Good luck, Bast."
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Post by Myridd on Jan 1, 2011 18:58:37 GMT -5
Batmobile
The significance of the theatre is not lost on me. Selena Kyle thought to herself as Oracle's words rang in her ears. Bast narrowed her eyes beneath her golden mask as she simultaneously guided the Batmobile to the theatre and ignored Robin's sulking.
The boy wonder just didn't seem to understand that just because he was a caped crusader doesn't mean he can not obey the laws of driving.
Luckily it took them only a few moments more to make it to their destination. Pulling the Batmobile to a screeching halt, Bast ejected herself, doing a somersault into the air and releasing a handful of smoke bombs into the group of twelve waiting outside the theatre. She landed quietly on her feet well hidden by the smoke and activating her ring as she did so. An indigo light flashed in her eyes, than the members of the Order of Stone doubled over as the intense torment they have dealt on others was dealt back to them.
"Tsk Tsk. You've all been a bad bunch of tomcats." She shook her head as she stood and walked over to the incapacitated bunch. "Robin. The others are inside. I'm going to contact Oracle to pick up these strays." With that she tapped the communicator within her ear and sent for pickup.
Outsiders HQ
"Check Bast. We'll send someone." Osprey replied, having taken Bast's message before turning to Oracle. "Bast has dealt with the twelve outside the theater. She and Robin are heading inside."
That was quick. Bast. .I mean Catwom-. . I mean Selena is skilled, but not THAT skilled. Its those rings. Like the one Barbara has. They're amazing. Claire glanced down at her empty finger and grinned. Just glad they're on my side.
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Post by Trailfoot on Jan 2, 2011 23:35:00 GMT -5
“That was remarkably easy.” Oracle smiled to Osprey before returning her attention to her work. “It’ll probably stay that way unless Bane or Shiv decide to make an appearance.”
The Theater
“The blonde is nearly exhausted. If we get the order to finish them, she’s where we’ll have to start.” Barthelamew Norton, known to his brothers within the Order as the Bruiser, spoke quietly into his communicator from the upper balcony. “Once she drops, we can surround the others. Not even Shiva will last long then.”
“We’re going to send two more in as soon as I hear back from those...” The voice of Brother Sledge in Bruiser’s ear degenerated into a scream of torment, and others joined it in short order. Bruiser pulled the communicator from his ear, tossing it to the ground, only to look up just in time to find a boot planted firmly on the back of his neck, a voice far too young for how cold it was speaking.
“No. Your friends are learning a little lesson in compassion... so you get to learn something about communication. You see, you’re going to tell me who it is who you’re waiting on to give a kill order... or I’m going to break every bone in your body that I can without killing you.”
The Foyer
“Once she drops, we can surround the others. Not even Shiva will last long then.” Bruiser’s voice in Sledge’s communicator made Sledge smile, a grin that would be charming if there wasn’t so much hate in it. He lifted his hand, glancing toward one of his subordinates - a substitute teacher by profession who Sledge knew only as Snap - for an update on the people they had outside. Snap shook his head - there was still no word.
“We’re going to send two more in as soon as I hear back from those...” His voice cut off as he caught sight of a sleek, feminine figure appearing out of a cloud of smoke.
“Sorry kitten, but I think whoever you’re waiting to hear from will have to leave you a message.” A voice purred from behind her golden cat mask as the figured raised a golden rod. “You see, a more. . .urgent. . . issue came up.” An indigo light flashed from the mask’s eyes and suddenly Sledge’s mind was bombarded by the images of every person he has ever hurt. Their faces, their screams, their pain. It all became his own. The fear he struck into his victim’s hearts coursed through his veins a hundred fold.
The man fell to his knees, screaming out in pain. Bast than turned her direction to the other man, the one called Snap. A confident smirk curled her red lips as she slowly took a step towards him, rod stretched out in front of her. “Now, now there, kitten. Don’t try anything rash.” She remarked as Snap charged at her and she deftly dodged to the side, smacking the man on the small of his back hard with her rod.
“Why don’t you just calm down, and tell Bast who it is you’re waiting to here from?”
Snap fell to the ground, crumbling as if struck with a wrecking ball, and managed to roll himself onto his back. “You think they tell me who orders come from?” He pulled himself toward his feet using the large handle of a nearby door, his fighting stance obviously off-balance from injury. “The High Mistress, or Master Shiv, or perhaps Brother Bane. Or maybe one of the Daughters of Lilith. Or the Faceless, for all I know.”
You got that, Oracle? Bast subvocalized. “Fine, if you don’t know who, than you’ve got to know why. Why here? You kittens hoping to catch a late night movie?” While one hand held her rod at the ready, her other snapped her whip, causing a loud crack to sound in the air.
Snap stumbled forward, the force of the blow he attempted to land enough to send him falling to the ground again. “The High Madame’s Text gives this as a place holy to Cain... a place where the Red Rock shall be fed with the blood of heroes. It was chosen for the test of the Faceless and of those who have stood against us.”
Selena narrowed her eyes behind her mask, growing tired of this cult’s crazy religion. She also grew worried for the ones further inside. Renee, Steph, Helena. . Don’t worry, I’m coming. “Today’s your lucky day, kitten. You don’t have to worry about losing faith in front of your friends. . “ Her gaze flitted momentarily to the other Order members whom were still screaming. “Seeing as how they are incapacitated.” Without warning, she twisted her body and landed a swift kick in Snap’s face, breaking his nose and knocking him to the ground once again. After restraining him, she sent another update to Oracle before heading further inside.
As Bast entered, she saw Damien dangling another member of the Order of Stone from the balcony, asking him questions in that voice that only a member of the al’Ghul family could possibly muster, while Batgirl swayed on her feet and Shiva delivered a kick firm enough to knock a filling out of her opponent’s tooth in spite of hitting his shoulder. Question reeled from a hard strike from her opponent, drawing him in just enough for her to sweep his legs from under him. Two others, waiting to join the fray, turned their attention to Bast.
“I’m ashamed of you, pussycats.” She purred, looking at the two who were coming towards her. “Ganging up on a poor defenseless kitten like this.” Bast lashed out with her whip, catching the first man around the wrist and she pulled him straight into the other man’s path. She than lashed out with her whip again, latching onto something overhead and than swinging herself into the thick of things and landing softly next to Batgirl and the others.
“Don’t worry, kitten. I’m here now.” Selena said softly, catching Stephanie as she stumbled. The indigo ring on Selena’s rod flashed softly, bathing Batgirl in a soft glow and taking away her pain. Stephanie smiled to her, then blinked as she looked around. “Is that all of them?”
“Looks like.” Question delivered one last blow to her opponent’s nerve cluster. “How many were outside, Bast?”
“A dozen or so. One of them blasted nonsense about a test for the Faceless one.” Bast smirked at Question, noting her faceless mask. “On one hand I say you passed. On the other, these people are frickin’ loons. Is everyone else alright?” Her voice is concerned as she reached out to Question, taking her hand and bathing her in a soft glow as well.
“I’ve had worse in bar scuffles. These guys all fight the same.” Question did stand straighter after the light faded, though. “Too much offense, no defense to speak of. Oracle sending the police to round them up?”
“Like always. She doesn’t skip a beat, that one. Guessing good ole’ Jack will be heading up the round up. He has his ear to the radio when he knows something is going down.” Bast said, glancing sideways at Steph and smiling knowingly before turning back to Question. “I say we get out of here before the Brass do show up. And I’ve gotta pull our little bird away from the balcony before he drops that man.”
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Post by Myridd on Jan 3, 2011 15:23:39 GMT -5
Jack Houston's Apartment
The homicide detective was stuck at home, attempting to catch up on his piles of backed up paperwork. Being out of commission for a few weeks due to injury (And heroics) really off-set his routine.
He glanced at the green ring he wore on his right hand, than back at the W2-14 form he was filling out. Being a Lantern had made his job easier, and more hectic at the same time. Luckily for Jack he had been able to finesse his powers in such a way that he was able to use them almost unnoticed. Still, he couldn't help but wonder if he was doing the right thing. These rings. . they hold a lot of power. He felt that though he and his friends were using their gifts for the greater good, that perhaps the scales were becoming a bit unbalanced. Surely the good guys weren't the only ones with such a gift.
Jack sighed, throwing down his pen and burying his head in his hands. I don't want to be a superhero. I just want to be Detective Jack Houston. One side of his brain cried out while the other responded What an idiot to complain about such a gift. Think of the people you can help, the good you are doing. Besides, now you're on a more even playing field with your new group of friends. Maybe now you can keep up with them without slowing them down because of a stupid. . injury.
"Gah." Jack said in exhaustion as he stood up and glanced at the nearby clock. 7:03am it flashed. He had been at it all night after rounding up the Order members left behind by Renee and the others. "I don't think the Commissioner would approve of my moonlighting." He chuckled as he stepped into his small bathroom and began to run the shower water.
Wayne Manor
Selena Kyle was humming to herself as she fixed waffles in the kitchen. It was a rare day that almost everyone would be there for breakfast, so she was making sure she exploited the chance to see everyone well fed.
7:45am The clock flashed, catching Selena's eye. I better make sure Damien is up. He'll sleep til noon otherwise. She smiled softly as she loaded a tray with waffles, orange juice, and fresh sausage before heading towards Damien's room. Peeking in the slightly opened door, she noticed Damien fast asleep with his arm thrown around Raheem. The tiger had apparently snuck into the boy's room and the image made Selena smile.
Perhaps a few more moments. Selena said to herself as she softly closed the door letting Damien continue to sleep. Instead she made her way to the Wayne Master Suite where she found Bruce awake and in his study.
"Darling, I made breakfast." She purred, setting the tray to rest ontop of whatever business papers Bruce had been perusing so early in the morning. "Time to eat. You can worry about work later."
Gotham Park
Owen had not returned home after showing up too late at the theater. Staying out all hours and taking long walks in the park had become a habit of his since he received his orange ring. He had even made up excuses not to join Barbara at the Wayne Manor for Selena's fabulous food. He regretted every free moment he could of spent with her that he did not, and yet he couldn't bring himself to face her.
I'm not like her. She deserves better. Were thoughts that constantly nagged him. His phone rang, Phil Collin's Genesis breaking the silence. 8:01am Mother Calling The display said. Owen silenced the phone, placing it again into the pocket of his windbreaker.
I don't like feeling like this. I don't like feeling like I'm not good enough. He glanced at the ring on his hand, considering taking it off and chucking it as far away as he possibly could.No. Running away from it isn't the answer. I've got to learn to control it. So I can hold my head up proudly and stop hiding from her. Before I lose her.
Jack Houston's Apartment
After a refreshing shower, Jack quickly dressed than picked up his cell. Dialing quickly he frowned when he reached Barbara's voicemail.
"Hey Red. Just wanted to see if you wanted to join me for lunch at Patterson's Grill around noon. Call me back."
Wayne Enterprises
Tim found himself stuck in another dreadfully dull board meeting where he was forced to look like he was paying attention. The meeting was only about reviewing ongoing policies that were not likely to change. Tim understood why he had to be there, it would make an excellent paper for his business classes. But just because he understood it didn't mean he had to enjoy it.
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Post by Myridd on Jan 4, 2011 19:09:22 GMT -5
“Need a ride home?” As Claire left the Outsiders headquarters, the voice came from above her, quite strong and certain. Connor Kent hovered there, a wide smile on his face. “It wouldn’t be out of my way.”
Claire looked up at him, her cheeks slightly flushed as she tried to regain her composure. She thought momentarily of the vespa she had parked out back, but instead gave Connor a beaming smile. “Sure, I could definitely use a lift home. . . Since its not out of your way or anything.”
He landed next to her, extending a hand. “I had a talk with Batgirl on my way here... she said your advice helped a lot today.”
Claire took his hand, appearing calm and collected when actually her thoughts and emotions were buzzing a mile a minute inside of her head.. “Oh? I’m glad I’m able to be of some use.”
He reached for her other hand, taking it in his and drawing her close enough to stand on his feet before rising up into the air once more. “I imagine you’ll be running a team of your own before you know it. Though the Titans might try to draw you in with them first.”
“The Titans? My own team? I doubt it.” She chuckled slightly, watching the scenery pass below them and forcing herself not to focus on her closeness to Connor. “I can barely keep up with aiding Oracle. I doubt I could handle everything on my own.”
“I didn’t think I could handle Smallville until Uncle Kal had to go around to the other side of the Sun.” Connor winked, keeping his flight slow enough to not upset her hair.
“You’re a lot stronger than I am, Connor. In case you’ve forgotten.” Claire smiled, relaxing a little. “And lets just hope I never need to figure out if I could do Oracle’s job as well.”
“You’re smarter than me, though.” Connor returned the smile, squeezing her hands lightly. “Which is saying something.”
“Ah. .” Claire blushed a little, returning the hand squeeze. “I’ve got to have something going for me, don’t I? And my intelligence seems to be it. Though at the moment I am rather glad I can’t fly. . . “ It took Claire a moment to realize she had said that out loud. Her face flushed and she made sure to pay extra attention to the scenery.
Connor smiled, taking the time she was looking away to look at her, admiring the shape of her jaw and neck before responding in a carefully light voice. “It’s not the flight that’s trouble; it’s the super strength. You know how many people ask the guy with the pickup truck for help with moving? I have a pickup truck and can lift a house trailer over my head.”
Claire laughed again. “Perhaps you should think about getting a different kind of vehicle? Something that doesn’t imply you like to haul heavy things. A convertible perhaps?”
“I live on a farm. That’s what people who live on farms drive. Though I would love to see Pa’s expression when he found a Corvette parked in the barn.” Connor winked to Claire, starting to descend toward a park near their home.
“There’s no law against people on farms owning Corvettes. You should get one just to see the look on his face.”
“Maybe I’ll ask Bruce if I can have one of his. Did you know he has six?” Connor landed on the ground, releasing one of Claire’s hands.
“Six? When does he have time to drive them all? Does he drive them all?” Claire wondered out loud, smiling inwardly that only one of her hands were released.
“I think he has that many because it’s as many as a man as wealthy as he is should have. I never counted the BMWs...” Connor looked toward the Manor for a moment. “Four. Four BMWs. One Benz.”
“Wow. He must pay a pretty penny to keep them all insured though.” Claire says, trying to prolong the conversation so they wouldn’t have to go into the Manor yet. She was enjoying her time with Connor, though they were rarely alone like this. “Oh, how did it go with the Lexbot?”
“It was built for Uncle Kal, which meant it wasn’t at all resistant to my tactile telekinesis. When I managed to get it into a position where I could keep my hand on it, it exploded. Rather dramatically, actually... Lex doesn’t seem to have much use for doing things by halves.”
“Darn. I was hoping there would be some pieces left over for me to tinker with.” Claire frowned slightly. “I mean, I’m glad you’re all right and that it was dealt with easily enough, but still. .such a waste of fine technology.”
“I’d have taken something for you to look over if there’d been anything left worth taking, but I don’t think there were two pieces of metal left stuck together.” He smiled apologetically.
Claire squeezed his hand as she gave him another smile. “I’ll forgive you this once.” She said playfully before impulsively leaning up and kissing his cheek. “We should get inside, before Selena sends Raheem out to fetch us.”
He blushed at the kiss rather deeply, and smiled to her. “The Clone and the Tiger. Sounds like a novel.” He started to walk more quickly toward the Manor yard, not letting go of her hand.
“Or a sub-titled martial arts flick.”
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Post by Myridd on Jan 4, 2011 19:09:32 GMT -5
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Wayne Manor
The meal had been excellent - a deeply flavorful roast with greens and potatoes, wine older than Alfred, a salad with lettuce so freshly crisp that each bite filled Selena’s mouth with its taste, and a French dessert with an unpronounceable name that was served aflame. The last two glasses of that ancient wine were poured, and Bruce sat opposite her, sipping from his glass and smiling as they discussed things of little importance.
Selena Kyle was thrilled to have a night alone with Bruce, though she still was not sure how they managed it. Eyeing Bruce over the rim of her glass, she took a sip of the ancient wine than smiled delicately. “This is so wonderful, darling. How did you manage to get the place so empty? I don’t think its ever been this quiet.”
“Alfred found work for everyone, I believe.” Bruce smiled over his wineglass, then leaned forward. “We need more nights like this.”
“Yes, I agree.” Selena responded, leaning forward as well. “Though they’ll probably be a bit hard to plan.”
“Selena...” Bruce looked down for a moment before continuing to speak. “I’ve never been available for you enough. I’m trying to change that now.”
Selena blinked, a tad concerned about his change of tone. “Bruce, darling, it’s all right. I did not enter into a relationship wanting to monopolize your time. Even back than, when we started fresh, I. . .” Her words caught in her throat and she was silent for a moment. “I can’t say I didn’t want to monopolize your time. . Even now a part of me wants you all to myself. But I’ve grown, Bruce. I have a better understanding of who you are, and I love you for it.”
“I want to spend my life with you, Selena. I’ve wanted that for a long time... I’ve just been too much of a fool to do anything about it.”
“Brucie. . wha. . what are you saying?” Selena stuttered, her heart racing. No, he couldn’t be. . could he? After all this time. . No, mustn’t get my hopes up.
“Marry me, Selena.” Bruce produced the small felt box as if from nowhere, reaching across the small table to offer it to her. “Please.”
Please. . He said please. . Selena’s faced flushed as she reached out and took the box into her hands. She stared at it a moment before opening it. It was a platinum band with two perfect diamonds flanking an onyx shaped like a cat’s pupil. It was the most beautiful thing Selena had ever seen. “I. . of course, Bruce. Of course I’ll marry you!” Suddenly she was out of her seat, throwing her arms around her lover’s neck, her heart overflowing with joy. “I’m not letting you back out either. Never again.” She added playfully as she slipped the ring onto her finger.
Bruce barely managed to keep his chair from tilting backward as he caught her, pulling her against him with strong arms, holding her tightly to him. “Thank you, Selena. Thank you.”
“Its going to be soon, after all I went through to get you back, I’m not waiting any longer.” She purred as she curled up in Bruce’s lap and brought her lips to his.
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Post by Myridd on Jan 4, 2011 19:10:32 GMT -5
The hallway outside Barbara’s apartment, 9:30am.
Selena Kyle stood by Barbara’s door, listening quietly to make sure she was not disturbing anything that might be going on inside. Once she was sure, she knocked softly, barely able to contain her excitement.
Barbara opened the door, smiling at the sight of her friend. “Selena. How’d your date last night go?”
Selena was absolutely glowing. She threw her arms around Barbara’s neck, than held out her hand to show off her new ring. “Isn’t it gorgeous?”
“Those are some rocks.” Barbara laughed quietly, joyfully, hugging Selena tight. “So Bruce finally decided to propose?”
After straightening herself out and brushing the wrinkles out of her dress, Selena smiled at Barbara. “About time too.” She winked. “But believe it or not, I’m not here about him today. I’m here about you.”
“Me?” Barbara blinked. “What about me?” She took a moment to give the ring one more admiring look.
“I want my maid of honor to dance at my wedding.” Selena said simply, taking Barbara by the hand before the woman had time to argue. Selena’s other ring flashed indigo and a soft light enveloped them both. Selena closed her eyes in concentration. Slowly, Barbara could feel a tingling sensation heading down her spine, and than she was able to feel the fabric of her pants against her legs, than the strength of her muscles returning.
“You’ve done so much for me, Babs. So much for everyone.” Selena said once the light had faded. “Its about time someone did something for you.”
Barbara blinked, a sense of wonder filling her eyes, and whispered, “I can feel my legs...” She reached for Selena, using the other woman’s shoulders to pull herself to her feet, and winced. “My legs hurt.” Then she laughed. “My legs hurt! God, Selena, I can feel them. They’re weak but I can feel them. I can wiggle my toes.”
“So you’ll be my maid of honor?” Selena asked though the joyful tears flowing down her cheeks.
“Maid of honor? For this, I’d strip at your bachelorette party.” Barbara laughed. “I can walk. I’ll stand at your wedding, proudly. Thank you so much.” There were tears of joy in her eyes.
Selena hugged Barbara close, feeling quite giddy. “There will be no need for stripping, but this weekend you’re accompanying me to New York to help me choose my wedding gown. I’ve booked us a suite. Perhaps you could invite Owen along?”
Barbara frowned slightly, though not enough to overwhelm the pure joy each move of her knees or twitch of her toes sent through her heart. “Owen’s not been talking to me much, lately. Or returning my calls.”
“What?” Selena asked, obviously shocked. “What’s wrong with that boy, he’s crazy about you! There’s got to be something else going. . .” Suddenly Selena had it. She gazed down at the indigo ring she was wearing, than looked back at Barbara. “Didn’t you say Owen got one of these as well? What color was it?”
“Orange. The kind Larfleeze has.”
“Avarice.” Selena said to herself, her mind working fast. “Why. . would an orange ring seek out Owen? He’s never been much of a selfish man. Barbara. We need to find him, you need to talk to him. We’ve got to find out what Owen could possibly want enough to make that ring seek him out.”
“We should go now, then.” Barbara took two stumbling steps, then caught the doorknob. “By car. You drive.”
“Darling, I’m engaged to Gotham’s wealthiest man, I don’t need to drive.” Selena said, smiling slightly as they made their way down to the street where a long white limo was parked. “However, I don’t much like not being in control of where I am going. Driver, Wayne Manor please. I’ve got to drop off these packages and pick up my Benz.” The driver nodded, and held the back door open for Selena and Barbara.
After being seated, Selena turned to Barbara. “You have to know Owen pretty well by now. . Is there anything you can think of?” Her voice was full of concern. Selena genuinely liked Owen, especially for the smile he brought to Barbara’s face.
“Nothing I can think of...” Barbara sighed softly, resting her hands on her knees and marvelling at the feel of pressure through the fabric of her jeans.
“Than obviously there is more to Owen than either of us thought. You researched him when you were putting the Outsiders together, yes? Did you come across anything than? Should we ask his parents?” Selena brainstormed as the driver took them down Gotham’s busiest streets.
“His powers and his civilian work were what I found, mostly. I never did learn the origin of those powers...” Barbara leaned on the door of the limo, looking out the window. “Maybe that has something to do with it.”
Selena paused, looking thoughtful as the driver pulled up to Wayne Manor. “Barbara. . This might sound a tad strange. . But are you going to stick by him, no matter what we find?” She asked as she slid out of the limo and held the door open for her maid of honor.
Barbara stepped from the car, concentrating on keeping each step stable. “I can’t make that promise. But I can’t imagine anything that would make me want to leave him that we could find in his background.”
“You’re in love.” Selena said simply, a small smile on her lips as she held out her hand to help support Barbara on the way to Selena’s Benz. “Where to first? Where might he be? The hospital?”
Barbara lifted her hand, concentrating, and the green ring on her finger began to shine with an inner light. Ring, locate Owen.
One Owen Richards is located at Gotham park, down near the water’s south side. The ring responded.
“Gotham Park.” Barbara smiled to Selena. “He’s at the park.”
“I’m glad its not a strip club.” Selena said, smiling in return as she got into her Benz and fired it up. It took them just under ten minutes to reach the park, parking near the water. “Do you want me to wait here?”
“Please. I’ll call if I need you.” Barbara slid from the car, activating her ring to bring a long cane into existence to lean on as she made her way down to find Owen.
“All right. Good luck.” Selena said, watching her friend walk off.
It took Barbara a short time to find Owen, who was resting underneath an outcropping of rock so that passerbys couldn’t see him. He looked as though he had not slept in days, and his usually neat blonde hair was in great disarray. He wore only a pair of jeans, looking like he just shifted out of his Reed form and had not bothered to get properly dressed afterwards.
“You look a fright.” She carefully made her way down to him, using the glowing green cane to maintain her footing.
He opened his eyes, obviously startled to see Barbara walking towards him. Actually walking. “And you’re walking.” His tone was soft, concerned, filled with emotion that he had kept bottled up for far too long. Before Barbara reached him, Owen was in tears.
“Selena.” Barbara rushed, stumbling the rest of the way to him, to throw her arms around him. “What’s wrong, Owen?”
“I. . I don’t . . “He stammered, unable to resist the urge to throw his arms around her, burying his face in the crook of her neck. “Its this damned ring. . . Its. . . I didn’t know how to face it, or to tell you.”
“So you took yourself away from me?” Barbara drew him against her. “What’s the ring doing?”
“It’s making me want what I can’t have. . Nothing monetary, but something that means everything.” Owen said quietly, his voice shaking. “Its making me dissatisfied with who I am, or maybe its just forcing me to stop hiding what I’m feeling. . who I am. Red. .” He pulled back from her, as if ashamed. “Red, I’m not Owen. Not exactly. I’m not even. . human.”
“Do you expect that to shock me?” Barbara gave a small smile. “One of my best friends is Superman. Tell me, then... tell me what you are.”
“. . . “ Owen sighed deeply, shaking his head slightly. “Its different. Superman is humanoid, at least. I’m just a parasite hitching a ride in the life of a kid who by all accounts should be dead.”
“Tell me more.” Barbara sat, drawing him with her to sit next to her, leaning against him lightly and stretching her legs out.
“Owen Richards was a sick kid, all his life he was ill. The one known as Lex Luthor. .”Owen paused, noticing Barbara’s twitch of recognition at the name. “Yes, that Lex. He was scheming to pull some omniscient being to this world where he would be in control. I’m not sure what he wanted to do with it, probably kill Superman or some such nonsense.” Owen settled against Barbara, beginning to relax. “But Lex needed a suitable vessel. He tricked poor Owen Richards into giving himself to Lex right at the moment of death, believing that Lex could somehow save him and prevent his family from experiencing the grief of losing their son.”
Owen chuckled slightly. “However, like most of Lex’s plans, nothing went as though it should. My kind intercepted the summons, decided that the kind of thing Lex was attempting to draw forth would be too dangerous and sent me instead. I inhabited the young boy’s body when his soul was just beginning to fade. . I don’t think the attachment was meant to be permanent, but that’s how it seems to of worked out. The first thing I did when I gained control was punch Lex in the face. Broke his nose too.”
“Since then you’ve spent your time healing the sick and protecting the helpless. Seems to me you’ve got the best parts of humanity down.” Barbara smiled softly. “I’d like to hear more about your people, and your planet. But first you need a shower, and you need to stop trying to hide from the world. The world needs you, and you need the world. And if I don’t have a date to Bruce and Selena’s wedding, Selena’s going to find unspeakable things to do to you.”
“They’re getting married?! Did Bruce finally gain the courage or did Selena have to threaten unspeakable things?” Owen grinned, suddenly feeling as though a weight had been lifted.
“Bruce proposed, apparently. Selena’s waiting with her car... you have to see the ring.” Barbara grinned widely.
“I look forward to it.” He grinned back, pulling himself onto his feet than helping Barbara onto hers. “. . Thank you Red.”
Barbara rose, creating the cane again. “You get home and get cleaned up. I’ll bring Selena to your house, and she can tell you. Be surprised!”
He nodded, and went to walk off, but paused. Owen than quickly pulled Barbara to him and kissed her passionately on the mouth before pulling away again. “Dinner tonight? I’m tired of hiding.”
Barbara melted a bit into the kiss, nodding against his chest. “Dinner. We’ll figure out where later.” She smiled up to him. “I’ve missed you.”
“I’m sorry for being so stupid, I’ve missed you as well.” He ran his fingers through her hair, and kissed the top of her head. “Call me. I should shower, and you should meet with Selena before you start smelling like hobo as well.” He smirked slightly.
“I’ll call. See you later.” Barbara kissed Owen’s cheek before levitating herself up to the sidewalk.
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Post by Trailfoot on Jan 18, 2011 16:33:01 GMT -5
Arkham Asylum
There were times to avoid your demons, times to confront them, and times to exorcise them entirely. This was, Barbara decided, one of those third moments.
She rolled her chair through the long hallway, nodding to the guards as she went, most of whom she knew by name. The Warden had been less than eager to agree to this visit, yet when the daughter of Commissioner Gordon and close friend of Bruce Wayne insisted she was going to go somewhere, there were very few in Gotham with the wherewithal to stop her.
Croc raged as she went past, Szasz ran his tongue over his lips, Scarecrow laughed and mocked, yet they could not touch her. They were behind bars, defeated by the work of Barbara and her friends. They could not hurt her, and she had destroyed them.
The last room on the line was different from the others. Instead of bars, it held a thick steel door with a tiny window. Three guards stood watch over it at all hours, and Barbara knew that two more stood at the wall outside the room, outside the building. Apart from the Batcave, this was the most carefully-guarded place in Gotham City. Outside the City, only the Vatican, the Fortress of Solitude, and the White House were more secure.
Barbara lifted the key she held to the hole in the door, grimacing at the effort it took to turn the heavy series of locks inside. There was no keyhole on the inside, and the door would lock immediately when the door closed. It would take nearly half a minute to open it again, and in that time the man inside could kill a half-dozen people easily, were he not bound.
The chair rolled into the cell, and the door clicked closed behind her. The occupant of the cell was covered toe to neck in a straitjacket, his arms bound behind him, yet seemed quite comfortable lying on the thin bunk bolted to the wall securely enough that Croc or Bane would be unable to tear it free. On seeing her out of the corner of his eye, the man sat up, his deceptively waifish figure moving easily in spite of his bonds, his eyes sparkling with what would, in a sane man, look almost like joy.
Then his lips spread in an unnaturally-wide smile.
"Well, well, Miss Gordon. I'll have to take a shot in the dark, but it seems you're back to see me. Ha! I'm on a roll."
The Joker's laughter filled the cell as Barbara braced her hands on the arms of her chair, pushing upward.
Wayne Manor
Alfred sat alongside Selena, a dozen strips of lacy cloth spread across the long table. An older woman, Madame DeVeroux - a woman who had planned the marriages of Bruce's parents and both his sets of grandparents, as well as that of Colonel and Mrs. Kane and even Jim Gordon's first wedding - spoke in an annoyingly high-pitched voice. "Oh, we simply must use the white satin lace for the decorations. It will offset your eyes, Madame Selena, and that wonderfully innocent face!"
Alfred leaned close to Selena. "I can have her put out if you would like. Please..."
Jack Houston's Office
As Jack finished off his case paperwork for the day, he caught a glimpse of feet at his door. Those feet were topped by legs, and a torso, and the face of Stephanie Brown, who had apparently slipped through the precinct without attracting notice. She gave a fond wave and a smile. "Hello, Detective."
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Post by Myridd on Jan 18, 2011 17:53:03 GMT -5
Wayne Manor
Selena turned her face away from Madame DeVeroux for a moment, attempting to suppress a chuckle. Wonderfully innocent face? She mouthed to Alfred as the Madame turned her back to pick up some more lace.
After overcoming her mirth, she stepped towards Madame DeVeroux and took the satin sample from her. She understood the importance of using this woman's talents, even if Selena was perfectly capable of planning an event of this magnitude. Gotham high society would of expected it. After all, Millionaire Playboy Bruce Wayne marries Humanitarian Selena Kyle after a rather stormy on again-off again romance was the headline of today's paper. It won't take long from everyone to get into a tizzy about it.
Selena smiled to herself as she looked at the white satin lace, trying to picture her own innocent face. She had long since decided to ignore most of the articles about the wedding, especially those that mentioned Bruce's other lady friends. None of that mattered now. She was the one he had chosen. She was the one who went back to rescue him. She was going to be the one wearing the dress, walking along the Museum's rooftop approaching her love. And that was all that mattered to her anymore.
"White satin lace is lovely, Madame, but not appropriate for an evening wedding. I assume you did receive my memo? The one I sent just yesterday, outlining how I would like things to proceed? " Selena turned to the wedding planner, smiling softly. "I would like to see what you have in black satin. And plum as well. And the applications for the wedding cake? You have those as well?"
This woman was supposed to be the best of the best. If she could work within the boundaries Selena set, than that would be fine. If not, Selena would not be heartbroken to fire her and cause a scandal in the society pages.
Nor did she want to torment Alfred with this woman's presence any more than necessary.
Upstairs, hallway
My Selena. The bengal tiger sighed as he peered through the upstair's railings down at the commotion below. My Selena. . is happy. All this fuss, due to that man. Raheem smiled to himself as he saw the planner dig into her satchel to procure more samples for Selena and Alfred.
He than turned his head slightly and peered down the hallway towards the door that was left open just a crack. That man in there. Selena's chosen one. The tiger stretched his back as he got to his feet, than ambled towards Bruce's office. He inched the door open farther with his muzzle, than peered inside at the man at the desk, busy talking on the phone.
Raheem narrowed his eyes, appraising the man that sat before him. Doesn't look like much. Doesn't look worthy. And he's hurt her before. He lumbered into the room, moving silently and not attracting notice despite his large size and vivid color. It was before my time. Before she became My Selena. Though he knew that Selena would never, could never, be his in the primal sense. . romantic sense as humans like to call it. Truthfully, Raheem has never wanted that. Still, this man was a usurper. Honing in on Selena's affections, taking her attentions away from Raheem. For this, Raheem was jealous. Thankfully, he was smart enough to realize it was unfair. He hardly knew this man, and what he did know, he honestly liked.
Might be a bit scrawny, but an excellent hunter. My Selena will never want. The only thing she has ever wanted, it looks as though he will give to her.Raheem's face relaxed and a soft expression came to his face. And I will not be so petty as to deny her that.
He walked to the desk, sitting next to Bruce and lifting his paw to place on the man's lap. Bruce looked up from his phone call in surprise, meeting the tiger's eyes. They narrowed slightly. You may mate with her. She has chosen you, I accept that. But if you harm her, break her heart. . Raheem flexed his paw, allowing the tips of his claws to just touch Bruce's leg, making his point quite clear.
Jack Houston's Office
Jack smiled, perhaps a bit to widely as he saw Stephanie. He had missed her. "Steph. You didn't tell me you were coming." He stood up and walked over to her, running his hand through his messy brown hair. "I would of tried to tidy up the place. ." He looked around at his disheveled office, and than at his own unkempt appearance. "Or at least of tidied up the man."
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Post by Trailfoot on Jan 19, 2011 21:21:31 GMT -5
"Of course, I can show you what we have in black..." Madame DeVeraux began to clear the bits of lace and satin away, seeming entirely ignorant of the unspoken conversation between Selena and Alfred as she produced a number of strips of dark cloth. "Hm. Black, black, black... ah!" She leaned forward, taking one of the strips of satin that she had just laid out. It was black in the shadow, but when she held it up to the light it was clear that it was a deep, consuming violet. She walked to Selena, stepping into her personal space and holding the cloth up next to Selena's face, gesturing with her free hand toward the mirror. "That, I think, may be our color."
Upstairs
Bruce patted Raheem's head. "I waited this long because I needed to be sure I could be what she needs. I would not have asked her if I did not intend to follow through on it." He touched one of the great cat's paws. "I will take care of her... and I am certain you will watch me to make sure I do."
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Post by Myridd on Jan 19, 2011 21:46:15 GMT -5
Selena's eyes lit up as she saw the strip of cloth. "Its purrfect Madame!" She glanced at Alfred and smiled when he nodded his approval.
"Now, I have an appointment this weekend Madame DeVeraux, at Kleinfields in New York. I'll be procuring a custom wedding gown as well as my bridesmaid dresses." Selena chuckled slightly. And bridesman suit. "So I can count on you to check in with my bridesmaids, I did give you a list? To make sure they can either make the trip with me or to confirm their measurements?"
Upstairs
Raheem laid his head on Bruce's lap, closing his eyes. I do not think she could of chosen a better man. . . except perhaps the butler.
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Post by Trailfoot on Jan 20, 2011 15:16:27 GMT -5
Arkham Asylum
"So... Jimmy's little bird got her wings back. Delightful. I wonder if she's going to sing for me..."
Barbara stood over her chair, gazing at the lanky, seated man - the monster with a clown's face. Fear welled up in her, but it did not touch her voice - she spoke with the same deadly calm Bruce used when he knew he'd already won against a particularly dangerous foe. "The one thing you've ever accomplished has been undone, Joker. The one thing you've ever been proud of. The one thing you cared about, and were able to, in spite of all my father did, in spite of all Batman did, make stick is gone. I have my legs back, Joker." She leaned over him, pinning him by the shoulders to the wall. "I have my legs back, and you have nothing. I'd say you're going to rot in this room, Joker, except for one thing."
Joker took a sweep at Barbara with his legs, but she moved one hand down and easily blocked him, immobilizing his lower body with a hard cuff to his thigh that sent a blast of pain and numbness through him. "And what would that be, birdie?"
"There was a boy, six years old. His name was Mitch Salk. He was ten meters away from a bomb you planted in a circus - a bomb that killed everyone out to thirty meters. A man named Joseph Salk just took over as the Third Circuit Federal Court's Chief Justice." Barbara's smile could cut steel. "You're going to Metropolis Federal Penitentiary. You've been declared fit to stand trial for every murder you have ever committed. They're going to put dozens of them on you - hundreds, maybe. And you'll be locked away somewhere that no easily-manipulated doctor will come to your rescue, that no amount of cleverness will break you free of. And you'll die there, Joker. You'll die alone, without a friend, without anyone to hear your last laugh."
Barbara leaned back, stepping backward away from him, and took the handles of her chair. "But someone will laugh that day, Joker. I will laugh, and I will make certain that Gotham is filled with the laughter of people who are living happy, peaceful lives. You're beaten."
For once, Joker was silent as Barbara left the room.
Gotham Central
"I don't mind. Disheveled is part of the job description." Stephanie smiled widely, leaning against the doorway. "I was wondering if you'd like to grab something to eat when you're done with work."
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Post by Myridd on Jan 21, 2011 9:33:49 GMT -5
Gotham Central
"I'm finished now. You have excellent timing." Jack grinned boyishly as he slipped an arm around Stephanie's shoulders and kissed her head. "Where do you want me to take you? Oh! Better yet, want to come by my place? I bought some steaks yesterday and they'd be great on the grill."
Wayne Manor
Tim stood outside Damien's room, rapping on the door. "Hey, Damien. Come on, open the door, I know you hear me. Don't make me send the tiger in for you." Tim smirked, stroking the brown tabby cat he held in his hands and knowing full well Damien would expect him to send in Raheem.
Indiana looked up at Tim with his amber eyes and mewed softly.
"Your mission, if you wish to accept it, is to get that boy to come out. Understand?" Tim held the cat up to eye level as he spoke and the cat just stared at him blankly. "Good. Now go!"
He pushed open the door slightly, and let Indiana down. The cat slipped through the door, intent on fulfilling its secret mission.
Empress Boutique
Claire looked lost amid the endless stacks of dresses. Some friends from school had dragged her here once they heard she had a wedding to attend and it was formal.
Her friend Anne, a short girl with pixie cut blonde hair and skinny legs, was browsing though a rack of expensive looking gowns.
"I can't afford those, Anne!" Claire whispered fiercely, keeping her eye on the intimidating looking saleslady who had been eying them since they entered.
"Its THE Wayne wedding. THE!" Anne insisted, brushing her friend off as she pulled out a number of gowns for Claire to try on. "Everybody at school would just like. . DIE! You're like, the luckiest girl, Claire~"
"Lucky, not rich." Ako stepped in. Ako was Claire's other best friend, a pretty and smart girl from Japan here on a student visa. Ako gave Anne a wink. "However. . I believe Connor is going to be there."
Claire blushed fiercely as Anne squealed in delight. "Connor!? Seriously? Like that is like, amazing! You HAVE to get something amaaa~zing!" Anne suddenly dropped the dresses she was holding and headed over to the even more expensive section. Claire turned to Ako and gave her a cross look to which Ako responded to with a shrug.
"She was bound to find out. Come on now, Just try on the dresses she picks out, and if you really love something, we'll make it work." Ako smiled, patting Claire on the back. "Its not often you get time to think about yourself, always helping others the way you do."
Claire smiled, chuckling slightly. "I suppose you're right, but I'm not trying on that!" She pointed to the very couture dress Anne had just picked out with a beaming look on her face. It was banana yellow and looked painful to wear.
"Anne! Formal, not crazy!" Ako chastised as Claire erupted into giggles and the saleslady continued to look cross.
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Post by Trailfoot on Jan 22, 2011 14:29:36 GMT -5
Wayne Manor
Indiana entered the bedroom to find Damien, eyes closed and apparently the nearest thing to asleep, standing on his head on the floor at the foot of the bed. He appeared entirely unaware of the world around him.
Gotham Central
Stephanie smiled widely. "In that case, I accept your invitation." She extended a hand to Jack. "Shall we go?"
Wayne Manor
The song Black Magic Woman - a ring tone Selena was quite certain she didn't have - blared from her phone, and when she checked the message, it was a text. You can set Alfred free. On my way; will enjoy helping with fabrics and decorations more than he will. Also actually like Mme D. When done, don't let me talk myself out of visiting dad. -O
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Post by Myridd on Jan 22, 2011 16:24:17 GMT -5
Damien's Room
Indiana cocked his head and looked at Damien, as in inspecting the boy closely. He than walked over to the boy, and put his paws ontop of that boy's nostrils.
Gotham Central
Jack took Stephanie's hand and led her out of the station, chatting with her along the way and steadfastly ignoring the stares and jeers from the other officers. He led her outside and to his late model Toyota. "Ladies first." He smirked as he held open the door for her.
Wayne Manor
Selena stared at her cell phone for a moment, than broke out in a smile. When is she going to learn she can text like a normal person? She than looked up at Alfred and Mme D. "My maid of honor is on her way, so you're relieved of your duties, Alfred. But be sure to bring Bruce something hot to drink, he's been at it for awhile."
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