Unforgiven: Episode 1: Cold Justice

[The Game]

Yes!!! The 19th is here! I've been waiting for this for soooo long! First of all, today's my birthday- I'm fifteen, the big 1-5.

Second of all I'm tackling the FanFic world with two (2) stories! First is my first crack at a Supes story, and the second is this- the first chapter of the first episode of my Unforgiven Trilogy- which I'm really excited about, so even if you aren't, pretend you are.

The first edition is kinda lame, but I had to get some basic groundwork set for the huge story I'm planning on telling... Well, without further adue...

CHAPTER 1:

A warm breeze blew through the night, the wind chimes jingling softly in the distance. The sky sunset was a forbidding crimson, glowering down upon Gotham city’s bustling citizens. It was late May, the warm glow of a city preparing to relax into a lazy summer was evident. People dressed in skirts and t-shirts chatted on the sidewalks of the early evening, children happily running about. Teenagers partied at the realization they had passed all of their final exams, and the city was preparing to shut down to low maintenance. But there was one citizen who wasn’t shutting down at all.

On the very top of a gothic cathedral, shadows moved. Among the grotesque Gargoyle statues, two figures made their way to the edge, looking down on the busy streets. It was early for them- they didn’t usually grace the rooftops of the city until well after sundown, but this was a special occasion. They stood in a deathly silence as they watched the city they protected, neither speaking until one of them broke the silence, his voice piercing the crisp, clear summer night.

“So what are we doing here?” Robin asked.

He didn’t look directly at Batman right away; he just continued to stare at the streets. When his question appeared not to have procured an answer, Robin turned and looked at his mentor. His eyes began at Batman’s shiny polished boots, scanning up over his body, which was cloaked with his thick cape, drawn over his shoulders as he stood silently. Eventually Robin looked up at Batman’s face, dark, weathered, and gleaming. His head was covered with the dark cowl, pointy ears jutting up at the early night sky.

Batman remained silent, glowering as he ignored his young companion. Robin kicked a small pebble off of the roof before checking his watch quickly. He hated it when Batman gave him the silent treatment. He seemed like he was thinking something “oh-so-important” but Robin knew he was probably thinking about something ridiculously trivial. He just wanted to seem somber. No, that wasn’t right. He was somber. He was one somber guy.

“I don’t even think you know why we’re here,” Robin grumbled as he crossed his arms in a pout.

“We’re following a lead,” Batman said darkly.

“What kind of a lead?”

“You’ll see,” Batman said with a wry smile.

“What the hell is that supposed to mean?” Robin growled. “You know, I really think you need to work of your people skills. I mean- rework your personality and image. You need to become more fan-friendly. More of a people person, a hero for the people. You’d sell a lot of T-shirts if they were marketed right- I mean, every kid in the city would want to be the next Batman. Now you just seem like such a depressed loner,” Robin explained.

“That’s the way I like it,” Batman scowled. “Besides, I wouldn’t want to turn into Superman or something,”

Robin smiled. He looked up at the night sky, admiring the twinkle of the first star of the evening as it shined rather dully down on him. How did that song go? The one for wishing on a star? Oh it didn’t matter- Wishing on stars was stupid. Although there were some things that seemed impossible enough to need to wish for. Like for Batman to act slightly more normal. He was so dark in personality- and ever since Andrea Beaumont’s suicide he’s been like that even more so. Robin looked at the Dark Knight once more, studying his features. His face was gloomy and expressionless. Batman didn’t move a muscle.

“So we’re following a lead? On who?”

“The Joker. One of his men should be picking up a drop-off of chemicals that the Joker seems to want. We’re waiting here to apprehend him,” Batman explained quietly and quickly, in a desolate monotone. His eyes narrowed as he glared down at something, Robin following his sights to see what he was looking at. A small, squat, beefy man stood near the entrance to a small shop. He was perspiring heavily, bullets of sweat running down his forehead as he glanced around, his eyes wide and white with terror. He fumbled nervously with some kind of a small brass key, working to get the door to the shop open before heading into the abandoned store.

“And I think we’ve found our winner,” Robin said with a smile as he looked at Batman. The Dark Knight responded simply by lifting his batgrapple to the sky. With a powerful blast through the night air and a flash of lightning, the grapple fired across the way, clinging to a building with a soft clank. Robin followed suit and wordlessly the two caped crusaders flew through the air after the man.

* * * * *

Dick Grayson hurried across the street; casually waving thankfully to the car that had stopped for him. It was warm out and he could feel his body slowly beginning to perspire as he glanced up. The twilight glare from the beautiful façade of watercolors stretched across the falling skyline of Gotham caught his eye and he had to look away for a moment. He could see Barbara’s apartment clearly, even with the brilliant light shining at him. Her light was on. Good, he thought to himself, as he headed over to the door to the apartment. He pressed #3B without looking, knowing where it was automatically.

Barbara answered the buzz. “Yes?”

“It’s me,” he said casually.

“Jason?”

“No. It’s Dick. Who’s Jason?” Dick asked after a pause. He had tried to keep the overwhelming disappointment out of his voice, but he easily detected it as he listened to the words pass through his lips. He just stared at the speaker that Barbara’s voice came from, waiting for her response. Jason? But I thought… Well you thought wrong, Dick told himself as he tried to get it together. Who knows, Jason might be her milkman or something.

“Jason is… This guy I’m seeing,” Barbara said, as if each word was painful for her to say. It was certainly painful for Dick to listen to.

“Oh. I guess I just… Didn’t think…”

“C’mon up. We should talk about this face to face,” Barbara’s voice droned from the speaker. He heard her press the button, and the door to the building hissed as it unlocked. Dick reached forward and grasped the cold steel of the door and pulled it toward him with a whoosh. He began to walk into the large lobby of the complex, not watching where he was walking. So she’s seeing someone else? Is that really such a big deal? You could be seeing someone, he told himself. But he wasn’t. And she was. They’d been working together almost every night for about four months now. She hadn’t mentioned him once, and he felt the bitter tinge of betrayal in his mouth. But she really hadn’t done anything wrong, he tried to calm himself. The truth was that if she had mentioned it, she would have had no excuse and it would have seemed like she was just flaunting. But still. It was just unfair, he told himself as the doors to the elevator closed with a soft chime.

The wait up seemed like an eternity as the elevator took its sweet time in lifting him to her floor. As soon as its large steel doors parted he bolted for her room, banging on the door, with a hint of both anger and strange excitement. The door opened slowly, but he didn’t wait to be invited before walking into her apartment. He took off his coat and tossed it onto her couch.

“Come right in, make yourself at home,” Barbara murmured sarcastically. “You want something to drink?”

“I’m fine,”

“What are you doing here?”

“I just wanted to talk. You know, about things. Maybe see if you wanted to see a movie tonight, but I guess not, huh?” Dick growled, the words flying out of his mouth at a lightning pace.

“Yeah, I’m busy. Not that it’s any of your business though! What gives you the right to…”

“So, going out with Jason?” Dick quipped angrily. Barbara shot him an icy stare.

“Wouldn’t you like to know?” she growled.

“Well that’s great. That’s just fantastic,” Dick snarled as he looked out the window. It was dark now; the last traces of the bright spring sun had faded to blackness. His eyes slowly scrolled down, falling upon a small mahogany bureau. On it stood two pictures. The first one was of Jim Gordon as his daughter. The other was Dick and Babs. They were embracing. Smiling. But that was a different time. His eyes came level with Barbara’s once again. They stared defiantly into each other’s eyes, and Dick allowed himself to cool off.

“Sorry,” he whispered.

“Me too,” she whispered back.

“So… Dick thought of how he could learn more about this guy without sounding spiteful or obnoxious. “How did you two meet?” he decided on finally.

“At work. He’s a Detective,” Barbara explained. “Detective Jason O’Connell. You’d actually probably like him,” she suggested with a sarcastic smile. Dick returned one.

“Yeah, right. So how do we know that’s his real name?” Dick asked. He was half-joking, half being… Protective. He never liked it when Barb saw other guys, especially when she had hidden it from him… But she didn’t seem to fazed by it.

“I can take care of myself, Dick. I’m not stupid; I can certainly take care of myself. I did a background check, and it cleared out- besides,” she said with a smile, “He’s too sweet to be a bad-guy,” Dick wanted to puke. Too sweet to be a bad-guy? Perhaps it was his overwhelming jealousy, or maybe it was just that he hated it when Barb was right, but he wanted to take out his anger on something… Argh! What had happened?

“So when do I get to meet Mr. Perfect?” Dick snapped condescendingly.

“Not that its any of your business, but…” The door to Barbara’s bathroom opened. “…It might be sooner than you think,” she sighed loudly as she looked over at Jason exiting her powder room. He was tall- maybe 6’3” or so. He had sandy blond hair, and bright blue eyes that seemed to light up the room. That of course, only lasted until he smiled casually at Barbara, at which point his teeth blared a brilliant white. Dick was nearly blinded.

“Oh, hello. I’m Jason. And you must be Dan. Barb has told me so much about you,” he explained. Dan? Dan?

“Dick. Dick Grayson,” he snarled after a moment. Dick extended his hand unwillingly, shaking Jason’s. “Nice to meet you,” If it had been any other situation, Dick would have found the guy to cool on almost all counts- but right then he’d have given anything to pop him one in the mouth. He was in what appeared to be peak physical condition- rather muscular. He smiled nervously as Dick continued to stare at him angrily.

“Right back at you. So how do you and Barb know each other?”

“We were friends in college,” Barbara offered, jumping in. “Dick, don’t you have somewhere to be?”

“Yeah. Not here,” he growled as he headed for the door.

* * * * *

A gentle breeze fluttered in through the open window, as the Joker hummed softly. He was on his toes as he swirled around, prancing and dancing with glee. It was time. It was most certainly time. Joker glanced in the mirror, observing his own reflection. Yes- the clown prince of crime looked good today. He straightened his tie as he grinned at himself. His lips were just as ruby as ever, shining brightly as he smiled. Another day, another plan. But it was time.

Joker moved his sights from the reflective glass on the wall to his desk, where the large blueprint scroll was stretched out- paperweights keeping it from curling up. He peered over the schematics and illustrations, preparing himself. After all the sick humor, the dark laughs and the vengeance, this one would kill them all… And Batman wouldn’t see it coming. The Joker could practically see the headlines now- PLAGUE OF TOXINS CAUSE MASS DEATH IN GOTHAM. Hopefully that pointy-eared freak would be among them. It was picture perfect.

“Ah Batsy. One more time eh?” The Joker growled as he glanced over at a newspaper clipping he’d had Harley yank of the Dark Knight. “Only this time you’re not walking away from it alive,” he growled. He began to laugh at this, cackling at himself. Certainly not. Not this time. He bellowed with sharp gleeful snickering, which faded momentarily when Harley Quinn walked into the room.

“Hiya, puddin’!” Harley called as she danced in the room. Her tight body was covered with her typical tight red and black clown attire, her cheerful face covered with her typical “harlequin” style make-up. She was grinning widely at the man she loved, but he didn’t return the show of affection. She danced over and stood next to him, admiring the plans the way he was- he was oblivious to her completely. “Puddin’?”

“What? What do you want?” Joker snapped without looking in her direction.

“Nothing, baby. Just trying too…”

“Then get out of my way! I don’t have time for…” Joker spun on his heels to face Harley who looked distraught. She cringed as he came close to her, and suddenly he broke into a wide grin, of grimy golden teeth. “Aw, what’s the matter, Harl? You’re not afraid of me are you?” he asked with a scary sarcastic snarl. Harley didn’t know what to say exactly, and just paused- her lips moving slightly, but no sound coming out.

At this moment he pushed himself forward, his wide grin pressing against her mouth, in a deep kiss she didn’t want put didn’t fight. He groped her quickly, running her hands over her most private areas rather forcefully. She was much too afraid to resist him, but even if she had wanted to she wouldn’t have been able to. He released her from his grip for a moment, stepping away, back to his plans. Just one moment’s pleasure, and he was gone just like before, leaving her dazed, confused, hurt, and violated.

“Puddin’…”

“I’m done with you. Keep your mouth shut!” the angry clown snarled. Harley stopped in her tracks and she could feel the tear trickle down her face. She complied, whimpering softly as she left the room, leaving her love alone with his plans.

* * * * *

The short, stocky man exited from the store, immediately sprinting into the adjacent alley. He made his way as fast as he could- it was lightly beginning to rain now, the soft moisture dribbling down on him. He was slowed slightly by the two large tanks of liquid he was carrying, lugging them along through the alley toward his pickup truck at the end of the alley…

The tanks were very heavy, and he strained to keep from dropping them. It’s simple, Frank, he told himself. Just deliver the tanks to this Joker guy, get the money, and pay off your debts. That’s really all there is too it, no excess baggage. He stopped for a moment and hoisted the tanks up on his shoulder farther with a loud grunt. He really should find his way to the gym more often… He felt the mixture of this fresh rainfall and his sweat make its way down his face and he licked it. Just make sure you’re not followed and you’re home free, he told himself. He suddenly heard a loud clang from behind him and spun in frenzy, dropping both tanks. His eyes searched the dark alley wildly, but there was no enemy in sight. He was panting loudly as his eyes flashed around- he knew it couldn’t be that easy.

“Who’s there?” he called. Nothing. He bent over and snatched the two tanks, lifting them with much effort, turning right into…

Batman.

“Batman!” he cried, he turned to run, but out of nowhere a small swinging figure came down, smashing into his face with its foot.

“Tsk, Tsk,” Robin announced as he landed safely on a large garbage bin. The desperate man stumbled and slipped in an effort to escape as Batman slowly approached. Then, with lightning quickness he reached down and snagged Frank by the front of his shirt, pulling him to eye level with ease.

“I’m only going to ask once: Where’s the Joker?!” he demanded.

[Coran]

Two good stories going at once... this should be very cool. Keep up the good work Game.

[Daughterof_Evil]

I'm so glad you've come up with this second story...the last one I enjoyed very much, and you are obviously very talented.

I liked Robin's comments on how Batman should be more fan-friendly...and Batman's reply that he didn't want to be like Superman. I guess the Boy Wonder's finally figured out some witty things to say, eh?

I'm anxiously awaiting more!

[Batgirl_2005]

wow. That was really awesome. I loved Robin's comment and batman's retort. I can't wait to read more of BOTH stories.

[The Game]

Thanks for everyone who responded! :) Coran, DoE and Batgirl2005, I love to hear your comments. Well, I won't waste time with this, let's get on to the next chapter...

CHAPTER 2:

All around were hookers, pimps, carjackers, drug dealers, con artists, and members of organized crime. It was two-thirty in the morning, and it was cold for a late summer night, but it didn’t bother him in the least. Red lights blared all over, indicating pawnshops and strip joints at every curve, but he certainly wasn’t rattled in the slightest.

He liked to call it “going undercover” but it was really just an excuse not to wear his costume for a night, to scour the streets of the “bad part of town” as himself, to see the nightlife of Gotham. Dick Grayson walked along the sidewalks of the red light district, but he mind certainly wasn’t on his work. She should have told him out of common courtesy. They were both adults- he’d ended it for Christ’s sake; he could deal with her seeing another guy. Or at least he thought he could. But either way it was the sneaking around that really bothered him. Or was it?

Maybe what was really bothering him was something he didn’t want to admit to himself- that he’d blown it.

Or, of course, maybe that wasn’t it. He hoped it wasn’t. At least when he was blaming her he could blame someone other than himself.

“Hey baby, looking for a good time?” came a female voice. Dick looked over at a scantily clad woman leaning on a car in a rather suggestive position. Dick smiled briefly at the offer.

“No thanks,” he said meekly and continued on his way. And there was something about that Jason guy that really bothered him. He was just- well, too perfect. And he seemed to make Barbara so happy… It made Dick want to go puke his guts out. It just made him sick to think of Barbara with another guy- kissing him, touching him… And even worse, him touching her… And more. He tried to get his mind on something else as he looked around the area for suspicious activity.

Not what would typically be deemed as suspicious activity, however. Suspicious activity for this area was quite certainly something different. Strange looking paranoid guys in trench coats weren’t suspicious and neither were guys surrounded by women, dealing drugs with unconcealed weapons. The streets didn’t actually have as many people as they usually did- many people seemed to have cleared out. A lot of the usuals were still around, glaring at Dick- to this crowd, Dick was suspicious. He checked his watch. He had to meet P.J. in three minutes, a block or two from here. He began to walk briskly- P.J. wasn’t the type to wait, and might bolt if he thought he was being set up. A car or two honked at him as he bustled across the street, turning the corner and heading down into the dark alley.

“God I wish I had a light,” Dick said loudly as he entered the dark canal of the streets, lifting a cigarette suggestively. That was the signal to start.

“I got one. What are you smoking?”

“Virginia Slims,” Dick grumbled, not quite as loud as before. That was the key. P.J. emerged from the shadows looking just as shady as usual, but a little grubbier. His hair was thick, matted, and greasy- his teeth were rotten yellow and he hadn’t shaved in quite awhile. Dick could practically see the waves of stink emanating from his body. P.J. had one of the worst cases of B.O. Dick had ever cared to whiff.

“What’s up?” P.J. asked as he spat at the ground. “You said you needed to see me?”

“Just wanted to check up on things. There hasn’t been a lot going down so I wanted to see what was up- is something up?” Dick questioned.

“That depends on who you ask,” P.J. growled.

“Well I’m asking you,” Dick snarled. P.J. reached into the pocket of his large green overcoat and pulled out a pipe and a small stash of his own. He had extremely long, slender hands and worked quickly, his bony fingers preparing the weed. He lit it and sucked in the long fragrant smoke sighing as the sweet relief of his newfound buzz calmed him.

“Yeah, there might be something, but I don’t know if it’s for real,” P.J. explained.

“What did you hear?”

“I want the money first,” P.J. demanded.

Without hesitation Dick tossed P.J. a paperback filled with cash. “Talk,” he ordered coolly.

“Well there’s two things- some people are saying that Joker is gonna do something pretty crazy soon, but I don’t know how well backed up that theory is. Something like killing the whole city- but there’s no evidence; just word on the street. He’s gotten guys to run errands for him, picking up this gas and that gas for some kind of biological attack- heck the Bat caught one of them early tonight,” P.J. said with great grief. “But I don’t think it’s anything major. He’ll probably just whack the mayor or some crap. No big loss. The other word is that Rupert Thorne has gone crazy- he’s determined to take out the higher-ups like the Commissioner and Mayor and stuff. D.A. too. He wants to take control and go back to ruling this city- you know, like in the days before the Bat,” P.J. continued to explain.

“So how’s he going about this?” Dick asked, not completely amused. Two hundred bucks to watch this guy tell him stuff he already knew. Great.

“He’s got guys spying on and befriending cops and stuff- trying to get insiders. They’re saying he’s gonna frame them, but I think he’ll find a way to blackmail them and have them under his thumb- you know, run the show from backstage. That’s just my theory though,” P.J. explained. “Need anything else?” he asked. Dick shook his head and simply walked out of the alley, leaving P.J. alone.

Joker. Thorne. All three contacts had given him the same stuff. Well at least that confirmed it was true…

BUMP. Dick looked up, slightly shocked to realize he walked right into someone. It was… It was Jason!

“Jason?” Dick asked, more than just a little surprised.

“Um… Yeah. I’m just here visiting family,” the nervous Jason mumbled as he looked around nervously.

“You have family here?” Dick asked, far from convinced. As cool as the guy had seemed at Barb’s place he was the stark contrast here- he was frightened, nervous, and distant- Dick could smell the alcohol on his breath.

“Yeah. Just visiting,” Jason murmured, and walked right past Dick, into the night. Dick looked back, watching him leave as he weaved in and out amongst the shady characters so abundant in this part of town. What was he doing here?

* * * * *

“Are you sure this is it? I mean, that guy could have been lying from here to China,” Robin mumbled with skepticism. His eyes stared out over the dam. It was a long way down- perhaps several hundred feet to the powerful rushing water, which roared with an undying ferocity bellow. His eyes scanned back up to the dark night sky, lit up only by the glistening balls of gas so very far away…

“The Joker will be here,” Batman stated simply. Robin wasn’t convinced.

“He could have been lying though. Guys- particularly Badguys I might add, lie often,” Robin groaned as he looked down at the rushing water. The plan was like the Joker- to poison the water supply of Gotham with his Joker Toxin chemicals, but here they were- no Joker in sight. Robin yawned loudly, letting Batman know he was bored.

“He wasn’t lying. I could see it in his eyes,” Batman explained coolly.

You could see it in his eyes? What the hell was that? Robin thought angrily to himself. One thing was for sure- he better not have been out here in the middle of the night for no reason- Joker had better show up. That was one thing that was particularly unnerving- Joker wasn’t usually late. He was certainly all fun and games, but not late.

“In the eyes, huh?” Robin asked, trying to convey how unimpressed he was.

“Something I’ve picked up working on the job so long- I can tell when people are lying. A little trick I know. Watch which way they look- you can tell whether they’re using their memory or their imagination,” Batman explained, recalling a line from the movie The Negotiator. Actually it was all about instinct, but he liked messing with Tim.

“Oh really? Try me,” Robin insisted.

“On Saturday night when you came home at one in the morning, where had you been?” Batman asked quickly.

“I… Umm… Well I was out… Over at my friend’s house… Hanging out and doing homework,” Robin mumbled quietly. He’d been caught- he thought he’d made it in unnoticed, but you could never assume that with ‘Batman’ himself.

“Somehow I know you’re lying,” Batman growled.

“Yeah, but you knew beforehand. It’s different,” Robin whined.

“Let’s just wait until Joker shows up to settle this,” Batman suggested coolly to his young colleague. Robin nodded slightly in acknowledgment. There were times that Bruce felt bad about bringing Tim with him on these late night excursions, but he needed back up. Besides- he knew the kid loved the fighting once it all got started. A kid after his own heart in that sense. He was here for other reasons though- after all he was just a kid. A kid. There were even times when he felt slightly guilty about bringing the kid into this- but the kid came to him.

The place was dark and shadowy, and Robin decided to check the area out. He stood up and began to walk down the way.

“Don’t wander to far now,” Batman snapped with a hint of sarcasm.

“Don’t worry, I won’t,” Robin called back scornfully. He continued across the ledge, casually glancing down at the water as he went. It was so powerful in its crashing motions- he didn’t want to fall down there.

“He better show up soon…” Robin murmured to himself as he meandered down the dam.

“I wouldn’t want to disappoint you- bird boy!” came a horrifyingly familiar voice.

* * * * *

It was warm in the room, as Rupert Thorne propped his feet up on the brown leather ottoman. He kicked off his Gucci Loafers, sending them flying out onto the small rug in front of the television, which was blaring with the late rerun of the news. Thorne was practically getting to the point where he got only a few hours of sleep a night- he was wrapped up in his business. Summer Gleeson- with the aura of a goddess- sat before him reporting once more about the tireless efforts of Batman to save the city- his most recent run in with the Mad Hatter or someone. Batman.

“If I could have any one wish granted, if I could have anything in the world, it would be that man’s heart in a case on my bureau,” Thorne said slowly and clearly. He pursed his lips gently as he tried to stare down the beautiful Ms. Gleeson, knowing she couldn’t see him. It had been another long day, in another long week, in another long month. The past year or so hadn’t been a good one for organized crime, and Thorne was fed up. He lifted his small glass of Gin and sipped it slowly.

“If you could have anything in the world, why wouldn’t you want to have infinite wishes?” Candice asked as she walked over next to him. She was dressed in her usual attire- a tight skirt suit and matching pumps as she stood by his side, staring at the TV. He looked up at her face- it was bearing a look of uninterested contempt, with a slight mix of boredom.

“I’m making a point, sweet cheeks,” Thorne growled. Candice smiled.

“I know you are, sir,” she grinned.

“Be a doll and go get me another drink,” Thorne added as he continued to glare at the television. Candice stalked over to the small bar on the left side of Thorne’s lounge and he watched her leave. She was so… Sumptuous. If he didn’t have the constant inkling that she was going to stab him in the back at a moment’s notice he’d probably get intimate with her- no woman could resist and offer from Rupert Thorne. Still, she was certainly the item, very curvy, the way he liked it.

“Candice, where’s this inside guy? I thought he was meeting me here!” Thorne called. She came back into the room; drink in hand, swinging her hips as she went. She placed the glass on the small mahogany table next to his brown leather chair, seating herself on the edge rather casually.

“He’ll be here. Trust me- I know this guy,” she insisted.

“Don’t forget the incident,” Thorne snarled. “I don’t think you should be telling me to trust you quite yet,” he added as Candice decided to keep her mouth shut- the boss was in a bad mood, and when the boss was in a bad mood, it was a good idea to keep your mouth shut. She shifted her body weight and crossed her legs trying to get comfortable.

He wouldn’t just let it go. Sure she’d tried to kill him- but he just wouldn’t let it go. There were times she wished her were crazy- she always read about these lunatics that Batman drug up to that hellhole Arkham Asylum. Their minds worked in mysterious ways, and they did strange things. Perhaps if she’d worked for the Joker or someone he would have been impressed with her cunning, going behind her back and all. But no, Thorne was very sane. And that’s what made him really dangerous. She was more than thankful to hear the soft beat of knocking on the door.

“See. What did I tell you?” she said with a smile as she got up to answer the door.

“I’ll be impressed when I see results,” Thorne growled. He got up from his chair with effort, straightening his tie and jacket out of common courtesy. He wasn’t looking to impress this guy but he didn’t want to look like a slouch. Organized crime might have been in a slump but that was certainly no reason to seem unprofessional. He watched as Candice let in a man- he was pretty big and fairly muscular, a good looking guy. He and Candice hurriedly whispered between each other. Great, she’s probably brought him hear to kill me, Thorne thought to himself. What good was an assistant that you couldn’t trust? He asked himself. Why do I even keep her around? Because she’s attractive? Well, yes, he admitted. When people said men thought with what’s between their legs they weren’t always that far off, he thought to himself.

“Rupert Thorne, I’d like you to meet Jason O’Connell, fake Detective for the Gotham Police department,” Candice announced as the two men came together. Thorne warmly shook Jason’s hand. He seemed like a good guy.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Jerry,”

“You too, sir,” Jason replied with a smile. He was truly a little intimidated by Thorne, even though he stood a good few inches above him. When dealing with organized crime, Rupert Thorne was a legend, so to speak. Every thug that had walked the red light district of Gotham, who had broken a leg with a baseball bat, who had sent someone of a drink in cement boots, or who’d taken a car to the crusher no questions asked, once hoped to work for Rupert Thorne. And here he was, in the presence of the king of the underworld.

“So tell me, Jerry- how exactly do you think this is going to work? Candice tells me you have gotten yourself into a relationship with one of the important folk at the GCPD. Are you going to spy through her?” Thorne asked. He was willing to pay to get as much information and leverage as he could with the police, but he needed to know this kid was capable of anything worth his while.

“Yeah, I got a fake girlfriend now. It’s not so fake to her, but get this- not only is she the Commissioner’s daughter, but she’s the head computer specialist for the force. She has complete access to the police computer files from the PC in her apartment for Christ’s sake. I’ve been intercepting the phone conversations she’s been having with her girlfriends- she thinks I’m perfect,” Jason stated, very pleased with himself.

“You’re dating Barbara Gordon?” Thorne said with a long pause. “That is one relationship that could be very beneficial to me. Welcome to my world, Mr. O’Connell. Welcome to my world,”

* * * * *

Robin didn’t have much time to react before a fist smashed into his face, sending him flying back. She hit the ground and rolled slightly, trying to get his feet before the next attack could come. Mo, one of the Joker’s henchmen, came flying at him, his large muscular arms swinging. Robin dodged one blow, and hit a leg sweep, sending the big galoot to the cement on the top of the dam, but Lar, another henchmen came flying in, hitting a brutal body charge to the young crimefighter. Robin was lifted clean off his feet, and he would have clutched his side in desperate pain if he hadn’t been falling down toward the water. He only fell whistling through the air for about a second before he felt himself caught, strong arms swinging him to safety.

Batman landed softly on the ledge, letting Robin down softly.

“I thought I told you not to wander too far,” Batman growled sardonically. Robin sneered at his mentor as he pulled out a sleek black batarang, turning his attention back to the three thugs of the Joker approaching.

“Fine. You win. I wasn’t paying attention, and you can tell whether people are lying or not by looking into their eyes,”

“See. Things just work out better when you admit I’m right before hand,” Batman said with one of the weak smiles he was able to muster about once every two weeks. He pulled out a batarang as well, ready to fight.

The big bull who called himself Cur came flying in, but went flying back just as quickly after a kick to the gut and an uppercut from the Dark Knight stuck him before he could blink. Batman sent himself flying through the air, cape trailing as it wailed in the wind. His foot came down first, plunging into Lar’s face with a loud snap of breaking cartilage. Mo got up, only to see Batman’s flying elbow smash him in the temple, sending his skull cracking into the stonewall on the side of the dam.

“Give yourself up, Joker!” Batman called, looking around to see where the Clown Prince of Crime might be hiding.

“Yeah, right, Batsy!” Joker cried as he came flying out into the night. His gruesomely demonic grin seemed to gleam in the pale moonlight, his garish purple attire looking as horribly mismatched as ever. He toted in his white-gloved hands, an automatic machine gun, which was blaring bullets, the continuous gunfire piercing the night. Batman could barley move, and felt himself barley move as the bullets seemed to be whizzing closer and closer to him. Suddenly the shape of a batarang came smashing into view, and Joker’s gun was knocked from his possession.

“You may be right about everything, but everyone needs a little help sometimes,” Robin whispered as he flew by Batman. His foot smacked right into the middle of Joker’s chest, sending the clown flying back across the cement dam. The Joker seemed to growl as he slid to a stop on the rough surface. He quickly got to his feet though, and drew a pistol from his jacket. The charging Robin didn’t see it coming as the Joker pistol-whipped him, bringing the gun crashing into Robin’s temple. He was out cold before he hit the floor.

“Robin!” Batman cried as he lurched forward, charging to help his young comrade. Joker reached down and grabbed the limp boy, bringing him up and placing a pistol to his head.

“Not one more step bats- or the kid gets it,” Joker cackled.

“Leave him out of this- this is between you and me!” Batman snarled. Joker seemed to ponder this proposition sarcastically.

“No, I don’t think so,” Joker snickered. Batman’s mind raced as he deliberated over the possibilities. Joker’s crazy but… But nothing, he’s the Joker and he’s capable of anything, Batman told himself. His eyes narrowed with a fierce ferocity, and he balled up his fists as he continued to glare into the eyes of a madman… BAM. He never saw it coming as he felt himself clobbered over the head with something large. He lost his balance and stumbled, falling off the edge. He grabbed the ledge- his grip was the only thing keeping him from plummeting to the rushing water so many feet below… He was reeling from the blow, too.

Cur placed down the small tank of Joker toxin he had used to bash Batman over the head with and leaned against the wall of the dam as he caught his breath. The Joker dropped the boy and stepped forward, a wide ruby grin stretched across his face as he approached the distressed Bat. His shiny spats glistened next to the black-gloved hands of the Dark Knight.

“Well, it’s been a blast!” Joker cackled. And with that, he raised one of his feet, ready to crush Batman’s fingers and send him to his death.

[Coran]

Awesome, awesome, awesome, and if you don't mind my saying it just one more time... AWESOME!

[Sweetdreams]

Poor Babs! But, it kinda serves her right. She should have told Dick about Jason. But... using her might be little over top. Am I confusing anyone? Because I am sure confusing myself :D !
Ok, let me recap this: I feel sorry for Babs, but not as much as I would have if I thought she wasn't hurting Dick. Poor Dick! His heart must be breaking, but he has every right to be suspicious. You will never find a perfect guy in a million years. That brings me to another point, Jason deserves to die. What he said was SOOOO MEAN! But, I just know he will get what he deserves. Right? oh, well! Anyway, I really enjoyed the story. I can't wait until Dick finds out what Jason is up to. So, PLEASE continue it soon!!!
I want to know what happens next.

Sincerely, Cathy

P.S. Dick & Babs forever :) ! I just had to add that.

[Panther]

Yah Sweetdreams! Dick and Babs 4 ever!!!!

I don't like this Jason...grrr.. >mutters to self< something bad better happen to him. >looks around and sees people staring.< Uh, yes well, GREAT STORY game! So many good bits, like:


“He could have been lying though. Guys- particularly Badguys I might add, lie
LOL!

opps, gotta go, more thoughts later - I promise

[BatKid]

Love the story so far, thegame8866!

One question, in part 1 where Dick first talks to Barb, and she says if it was Jason at the door, why would she ask that if Jason is already in her bathroom?

That's all I have to say, and I hope the new chapter comes soon! :D

[The Game]

Thanks for all the repsonses- Coran, Sweetdreams, Panther and Batkid.

Yes, I'm trying to make Jason a purley evil character, as you will see in the next chapter, he's also a pervert.

Batkid- Er...uh....Crap, you're right. Okay, since I'm too lazy to rewrite anything, we'll go with this- Jason showed up right before Dick did. Jason and Barb were flirting over that buzzer thing right before she let him up. After he went in, Dick showed up, and she thought it was still him talkig. Jason was on his way up. He went to the bathroom as soon as he arrived at Barb's. DIck showed up and viola, Lame, yes, but that's not my problem.

Well, here we go, Chapter 3, I hope you all like! (And if you do, reply. If you don't, pretend you do, and reply) ;)

P.S. This chapter is rated higher than the others, maybe R or something, because of extensive man on woman violence. :eek:

[The Game]

CHAPTER 3:

Joker’s foot came down, but not fast enough. Batman watched as a petite figure came flying in from the side, it’s sharp kick sending the Joker reeling. The Clown Prince of Crime tumbled along the roof of the dam grumbling as his beady black eyes looked back to see what force had struck him- to see a grinning Batgirl, hands on hips, ready to take on the world. Joker glanced between Robin, Batman, and Batgirl.

“Two’s company…” he growled, before whipping a pistol out from the lapel of his purple sport jacket. He leveled the weapon’s barrel at the girl and fired two shots, but the ever-agile Batgirl flipped backwards, dodging the bullets as if they were in slow motion. Batman took advantage of the situation quickly, using all of his upper-body strength to hoist himself up with one motion, cape fluttering as his feet landed on the dam. He turned to the Joker, and his eyes narrowed menacingly- in one motion he whipped out a batarang and it sliced through the air, smashing full force into the Joker’s gun. It was knocked away- sent flying as it skidded across the stone surface of the dam.

Robin was groggy as he came to- his eyes peeling back to reveal the world to him. He looked out, his slow eyes trying to move quickly- trying to figure out what on earth was going on. The colors were dazed but he could clearly make out the shadowy shape of Batman- fists flying, as he fought valiantly with the Joker. On the other side of him he could make out the shape of… It looked like Batgirl, but he couldn’t tell. She was fighting Harley Quinn, that much was clear, as not only the distinct shape of her hat shone in the moonlight, but also he could hear her high-pitched squeals.

That was one voice he’d recognize any day.

“You meddlesome brat! Can’t you just stay out of Mistah Jay’s way for once!” Harley screamed as she took a mad swing. Batgirl quickly ducked and hit a leg sweep, taking Harley’s legs out from under her. Quinn tumbled to a heap on the floor, emitting a loud grunt as she did so. Batgirl wasted no time as she pounced on top of Harley, bringing her knee down onto Harley’s cheek, pinning her to the floor in a forcefully painful manner.

“Sorry. Didn’t mean to spoil your fun, just part of the job you know,” Batgirl explained sarcastically. Harley groaned under the pressure of Batgirl’s knee on her neck… She needed to get free now- there was no way she was going back to Arkham so soon. She shifted her weight as quickly and powerfully as possible, and whipped her head so that the ends of her jester hat smacked Batgirl in the face. Harley was able to get free- well, sort of. Quinn grabbed Batgirl by the neck and pushed her onto her back, trying to choke her.

“You know, little girls like you shouldn’t be out past their bed-time!” Harley insisted. Batgirl was gasping for breath as she planed her knee into Harley’s gut, sending the jester-girl flying backwards with an “umf”.

“I’ll take that advice to heart,” Batgirl grumbled as she got to her feet. She quickly readied herself again, and this time when Harley came at her it was two quick punches to the jaw that sent her battered enemy crashing to the ground. Harley lay barley conscious groaning and moaning. Batgirl pulled out a pair of Batcuffs from her hip-hugging utility belt and approached, ready to take Harley in.

She was shocked to say the least when Harley bolted up- having produced from nowhere a large barreled gun with a cork in it.

“Too bad I couldn’t take you one-on-one like I’d hoped. Oh well, when at first you don’t succeed, use a gun,” Harley recited, as if it was a real saying. She pulled the trigger with a loud click, and before Batgirl could respond, the cork came flying at her with a thunderous bang. It struck her squarely in the chest and exploded on impact- emerging from its remains were thick purple and green ropes, which found themselves wrapped tautly around Batgirl’s torso moments afterward.

The battered and bruised Harley popped up to her feet gingerly- grinning despite the welts on her mouth from Batgirl’s blows. The Dark Damsel struggled lightly, but she already knew she couldn’t get out of the tight, seamless bonds- she was really working on getting a knife out from her utility belt.

“Aw, looks like Batgirl is trying to get free- maybe I could help you out!” Harley sneered, as she reached down and snatched Batgirl’s utility belt from her waist, tossing it over the edge of the dam. Barbara gritted her teeth in rage at this- only to be angered further as Harley shoved her down violently. “Take a seat, kid. Watch a pro take care of this,”

Harley began to prance over to where the Dark Knight was, as Batgirl struggled frantically.

The Joker took one more wild stab, and this time he actually sank the blade into Batman’s arm- and let’s just say the Caped Crusader wasn’t happy about it. Batman sent another fist flying, and this time his black-gloved hand caught Joker in the chin, and the clown almost flipped backwards as he was leveled by the hit. Joker spilled across the top of the dam, laughing hysterically at his predicament. Half an hour ago he was ready to carry out his plan for killing every fool in Gotham- and now here he was being beaten like a piñata at a third grader’s birthday party.

“What’s so funny Joker?” Batman questioned sardonically, his usual deep voice as cruel as ever.

“Oh nothing Batsy- it’s just good to be back to the old ways- you, me, punches, maniacal plots. You can’t honestly say you don’t enjoy these little escapades of ours a little bit!” Joker cackled as she inched backwards with all of his strength- he was weak, he couldn’t have walked even if the Dark Knight wasn’t there ready to pummel him.

“I enjoy seeing you behind bars at Arkham,” Batman growled. With that he reached forward and grabbed Joker by the shirt, dragging him up. He drew his arm back, and with one motion his fist came forward, smashing into the Joker’s nose. Batman felt his knuckles crack- and the Joker’s nose crumble upon the blow. He felt immense pain in his hand, it might have been broken. But still, the Joker laughed. Cackling on and on like a fool. A red crimson river was flowing from the shattered cartilage formerly known as his nose, but he could only see the humor in this.

BAM. Batman hit him again. Still laughter.

BAM. Batman hit him again, harder this time. Still, the same insane laughter.

BAM. BAM. BAM. Batman completely lost control, his fist swinging at will. His fist sank into the pulp that had been Joker’s face over and over, blood streaming all over the front of the Joker’s shirt. One eye was shut it pain, black forming around it. His nose was completely soft, blood now freely gushing from it. His mouth was cut too, trickles of blood emerging from that opening as well, two yellow teeth were missing from his trademark grin as he continued to laugh. Still, the same insane laughter.

Thoughtlessly Batman lifted his arm once more, ready to pound on the Joker until he physically could laugh no more… But something caught his arm.

“Batman! Chill out! What is wrong with you!” came the familiar voice of his thirteen-year-old partner. A confused and discouraged look was plastered on Robin’s face as he looked into the eyes of the seething Dark Knight, who seemed to show no remorse. “Get a grip Batman! He’s just the Joker- he’s crazy. Get a hold of yourself!” Robin demanded.

Batman felt ashamed and angry- but knew most of all that the boy was right. He dropped the Joker, releasing his shirt and just stared into space for a moment, thinking about so many things at the same time.

CRASH. The cinderblock was reduced to fragments over Batman’s head, and Harley wasted no time. She sent her boxing glove gun firing deep into Robin’s head, sending the Bird Boy to the ground as she rushed to Joker’s side.

“Puddin’? Puddin’?” she asked as she propped him up. As quickly as possible she roused Joker’s thugs and they all disappeared into the night, leaving three crimefighters- one bound, and two out cold.

* * * * *

Jason had entered the apartment and begun to undress- the whole time a pair of dark eyes were watching him. He was really cut- so far he hadn’t done anything Nightwing would have deemed suspicious. He came in and changed from his street clothes to a pair of silk boxers and a bathrobe, before sitting down in front of the tube to watch the late-late movie.

Nightwing wasn’t convinced it was all just entertainment. There was something strange about this guy- something that went beyond just being in the wrong place at the wrong time- he had a purpose being in the bad part of town that late, and Nightwing was going to figure it out. The truth was, he really wanted to find out via force. He would have liked nothing better than to go swooping in- smashing through the windows and introducing Jason to his fist… But Barbara certainly wouldn’t react very well to that.

Of course, one would have to question why he cared what Barbara would do. She certainly disregarded his feelings in terms of seeing… This guy. This… Scum. He couldn’t outright call him scum though, although it would certainly only be a matter of time before Jason earned that title. He would… As much as he didn’t want to seem like Batman, he simply had an instinct for this sort of thing.

He continued to peer through his binoculars, adjusting the adjustment knob.

“And what exactly do you think you’re doing?” came a fierce feminine voice from behind him. The truth was she had startled him, but Dick hid it well. He didn’t answer right away- he had to make it clear he was here for a reason. Without looking away from Jason he answered coldly.

“Keeping my eye on potential criminals,” Nightwing declared.

“Jason? What are you talking about? Not only is he a terrific guy- an amazing guy- but also he’s a police officer, Dick. Get a life and go home,” Batgirl snarled as she walked up next to him.

“There are dirty cops. They don’t have internal affairs for nothing,” Nightwing stated in monotone.

“Then let them handle it. Oh wait- there’s nothing to handle,” she sneered. She looked over at his apartment, observing her boyfriend carefully. “Well, I see what you’re talking about. Looks like he’s transgressing the law over there- he’s a regular felon. Watching T.V. after his bedtime. Well slap the cuffs on him and ship him to Arkham!” Batgirl continued to growl, her voice drenched with sardonic fury.

“I don’t appreciate your sarcasm,” Nightwing quipped.

“I don’t appreciate you spying on my boyfriend!” she shot back. For the first time his sights moved from his binoculars to Batgirl. She stood angrily, hands on hips, scowl on face. She glared at him, her blue eyes as ferocious as she could make them- but they were still cute. He almost felt the impulse to shoot up and take her in his hands, kissing her passionately. Almost.

“If he has nothing to hide, why do you care?” Nightwing demanded.

“Because this has nothing to do with him being a criminal, Dick. He’s not, we both know that. For god’s sake, we’re all adults here. This has to do with your jealousy, don’t even try to deny it!” she screamed.

“You think I’m jealous of you? Of him? Is that a joke?”

“Am I laughing?” she snapped.

“Your vision is blurred. You don’t know what you’re talking about. The only reason you’re with him in the first place is because you are trying to make me jealous. That’s what you really want, to make me jealous. Oh, and by the way, may I be the first to clue you in- it’s not working!” Nightwing bellowed.

Batgirl was enraged. “I’m with him because he’s everything you never were!” she screamed. “I’m with him because I want to know what it’s like to be in a relationship with someone who cares about me as much as himself. I’m with him because I want to know what an adult relationship feels like. I’m with him because I want to be with a man who is strong and sensitive- who understands me…”

“I get it!” Dick said, interrupting her mid-speech. He paused before loosing control. “You can list off all the reasons I wasn’t ‘up to par’ all you want- it’s not going to change my opinion. You’re beyond contradictory- you’re the biggest hypocrite I’ve ever met!” he snarled.

“Oh am I? Please tell me how I’m a hypocrite, Dick, because I’m DYING to know!”

“All you can talk about is how selfish I am- but look at yourself. It’s all about you- you, you, you. I don’t understand you. I’m not sensitive enough for you. I can’t pamper you, or kiss your ass like he can, well you know what- I don’t give a crap!” Nightwing growled.

Batgirl started shaking her head in disbelief. “Our whole relationship was always just a saying you couldn’t understand. A joke you didn’t get,” she whispered softly. Maybe she was talking to herself- Dick didn’t really care.

“And what makes you think you got it?” he whispered back. Maybe he was talking to himself. He didn’t really care.

The two stood there, completely silent. The late Gotham air was deathly still; the only sound reverberating through the air was the soft hum of distant traffic. They both stared at the ground only, each afraid to make eye contact with the other. Soft tears had welled up in Batgirl’s eyes, but she desperately didn’t want to cry. Not now. Not like this. Nightwing breathed softly, almost afraid to make a sound. He needed to get out of there. Away from her. Her and her perfect boyfriend.

“Where’ve you been all night?” he asked. He wasn’t sure what else to say, quite frankly.

“Saving your life,” she remarked.

“What?”

“The Joker was at Gotham Dam. He had tanks of his Joker toxin, and was about to pour it into the river. You know- Gotham’s water supply. The death toll would have been catastrophic- millions dead all with smiles. Batman, Robin, and I were there, saving the day. Where were you?” she asked with a fierce tone in her voice. Despite the situation, Dick really wasn’t in the mood to argue. Not anymore, anyway. “Oh, that’s right, you were here, spying on my boyfriend. Productive night, huh?” she mocked.

“No. I was running into him in the red light district. He may not be a criminal, but watch your back. You never know who’s an axe murderer and who’s not,” Nightwing stated simply. He was gone before Batgirl could jab him with her next cutting remark, he sprinted to the edge of the rooftop and took off, flying over the streets. His wings popped out mid-flight and he glided out of view in the late Gotham night.

* * * * *

“You mind if I just crash here?” an exasperated Barbara Gordon asked. Jason smiled warmly, stepping aside to welcome her in.

“Oh, of course not Barb. You’re welcome at my place anytime,” he remarked with a wide grin. His teeth were pearly white, his smile as sexy as they came. If Jason had committed any crime, it was because it was illegal to be that good-looking. He ran his hands through his thick full head of luscious blonde hair as she walked in.

“What’s the matter?” he asked, purely curious. Or pretending he was.

“Oh nothing… I was just… I didn’t want to be alone tonight,” she said slowly, trying to think of a lie that sounded romantic. ‘I would stay at my place but I was out crime-fighting and I ran into my ex who was spying on you so I decided to ask you to say here’ just sounded a little to crazy. She took off her coat and tossed it on the first chair she saw- with her laptop and bag.

Jason eyed the laptop curiously and grinned to himself. I’m practically in already, he told himself.

“Can I change in your bathroom? I brought my own PJs,” Barbara explained with a grin. Jason smiled.

“Of course you can,” he declared. She snatched her bag from the chair and headed to his powder room… He wasted no time. He rushed to his bedroom and turned on the secret monitor next to his television. Immediately the picture came in- it wasn’t very clear and it wasn’t colored, but it was a secondhand camera he was working with here. He’d installed for just this reason- and oh a sight it was. Barbara stripped slowly- taking off her top revealing a black bra, which held her voluptuous little breasts to her chest. Yes, that’s the way, he thought to himself. She then pulled down her pants, revealing a pair of purple satin panties. Not the thong he was hoping for, but he got a nice view of what he was looking for. He didn’t get long however- she changed quickly into her pajamas- pink with blue bunnies on them. How cute… It made him want to puke.

He darted out from his room, rushing to the living room. With lightning quickness he pulled out the couch- a bed in no time. Barbara came in and smiled warmly at him.

“Got me a bed there, huh?” she asked. He shot her a fake grin.

“Looks like it. Would you like anything to drink? Maybe some warm milk to help you sleep?” he asked politely. The truth was that he was amazed at how kind and generous he sounded himself- he’d always considered himself a good actor, but he could sense the sincerity and caring in his own voice.

“Well that’s an offer this girl can’t refuse,” she said with a soft smile. Jason bolted to his kitchen, and grabbed the carton of milk. Nothing like some warm milk… With a little bit of codeine. He put the drugged milk into the microwave and allowed it to heat up humming softly to himself as it did. Jason- you are a genius. And you’re going to be a rich genius that’s screwing the chick in the other room, he told himself as the beep to the microwave went off.

He brought her the milk and she accepted it gratefully. They chatted and made mindless small talk for fifteen minutes before Barbara went out like a light. With that, Jason helped himself to the laptop of Gotham City Police Department’s Computer Specialist. Oh, the world at his fingertips…

* * * * *

“Puddin’, you alright?” Harley Quinn asked as she looked into the battered and beaten eyes of the Joker. One of them was swelled shut, but the other opened quickly darting around. He stared through Harley for a moment. Then he punched her as hard as he possibly could. He had broken her cheekbone, which much was for sure, as she fell backwards with a scream of shock and pain, tumbling to the ground.

“You idiot!” Joker bellowed, screaming to the woman at his feet. “I’d planned this for months and months, and somehow, you manage to screw it up, none-the-less. It’s unbelievable!” he screamed. He reached down and grabbed her by the frilled collar of her outfit, yanking her violently to her feet. “Do you know how hard I worked toward this caper? Do you? Can you appreciate how hard I work all the time? All you do is sit around here and bother me! You are beyond worthless! You are an anchor, holding me down! And, well, after tonight…”

“But puddin’…” Harley began. The Joker’s open palm came across her face with a lightning quickness, and the smacking sound that ensued echoed through the hideout.

“Shut up, Harley!” he bellowed, his stink-ridden breath blowing across her face. SLAP. He brought his hand to her face again and this time she gasped at the pain slightly. “Can I get one word out without you interrupting me? You’re the biggest waste of space I’ve ever see!” he screamed at the top of his lungs. He slapped her again, this time as hard as he could.

“Mistah Jay… Please…” she gasped. Tears were streaking down her face now; her typical white make-up had smeared, revealing her toned skin. He reached down and yanked the hat from her head; her pigtailed golden blonde locks falling out. That hair… He hated that hair… He reached down and grabbed her by it- each hand grasping a handful of it. He pulled her up to be level with him before shoving her into a wall.

She was wailing now, sobbing uncontrollably.

“You want me to stop? Because all you have to do is ask!” Jokes screamed in her ear.

“Please…” SLAP. She couldn’t finish her sentence as he hit her again. SLAP. And again. SLAP. And again. She might have been able to defend herself. She would never know though- she couldn’t bring herself to lay a hand on Mistah Jay.

He shoved her to the floor, and there she lay, a blubbering mass of confusion, beautiful long blonde locks in a tattered mess.

“You don’t deserve anything I’ve ever given you!” he screamed, and reached down. He pulled a small switchblade knife out from his pocket and with one motion cut her costume right down the side- he might have cut her a little too. Then he yanked it off, her trademark red and black jumpsuit was gone. All that was left was a naked woman lying on the floor crying.

He kicked her, his foot landing squarely in the middle of her ribcage. She screamed in pain and clutched her side, in an agony, both emotionally and physically. Joker marched to the door and opened it, propping the screen door with the small lever used for that. He then came back, grabbing Harley by the hair, dragging the screaming woman outside into the night. He walked back in, slamming the door on the sobbing naked woman- the only woman who had ever loved him, left in despair.

[The Guitar Slayer]

Wow.

Not much else to say....Fantastic details and realism. You nailed the Joker of "The Killing Joke" perfectly. Methinks Nightwing shall nail Jason's butt to the wall. Can't wait for the next chapter.

[Coran]

Why oh why couldn't Dick have come back and seen Jason using Barbara's computer! I'm sure that he would have had a very interesting reaction. I can't wait to see how Barbara reacts when she finds out that Jason is a criminal. Keep up the great work Game, I can't wait to read more!

[BatKid]

:eek: :eek: :eek:

Whoa! That ending was tense. I've never really seen Joker act like that in my life! What a great characterization of everyone in the story. Loved how Bats went crazy there, beating Joker with his punches. What I can't believe though, is how Joker stayed conscious with all those punches, doesn't Bats hit hard? :p

While I was reading the story, I had everyone's voice from TNBA, doing the voice acting. Joker's maniacal laughter, Bats monotone voice, everything! And I also had everything in animated form. Dang, it looked like I was watching an episode of this. It just shows that all these great fan-fics would make great episodes. Man, I love my imagination. :D

Everything in that story has surprised me so much! Please post your next chapter ASAP.

By the way, where do you get all those pics for your avatars? ;)

[SilverKnight]

Whoa. Dig it. >drools over her keyboard< ...Ew. >wipes the drool off< Oh, well, anyway. >ahem< I like. I like very much so. And, dammit, you got me drooling over my keyboard...>sneers<...so that's gotta say something. :) I look forward to more. Please? ...Pfft, fine then. Be like that. :D

[Panther]

Jason is very very very very very very very very very very VERY bad! How he dare he mess around with Babs like that! :mad: And Nightwing is so gonna kick his butt! :D

Also, that was a great fight scene between Joker and Batman as well as Batgirl and Harley. Harley got some great lines in this post, one of my favs being:



“You know, little girls like you shouldn’t be out past their bed-time!”
Haha!

Very intense descriptions here, can't wait for more!

[The Game]

Whoa! Five replies. What did I do to deserve this? ;)

Thanks everyone- Yes Jason is a sick bastard. I want to make him into those badguys you really hate... He will probably get what's coming to him... But who knows, right? :D

I really want this story to feature a purley evil Joker, so he took the purley evil way of relieving his rage- he took it out on Harley.

Well, I won't bore you a moment longer, here we go- Chapter 4! :)

[The Game]

CHAPTER 4:

“He’s acting weird. Really weird,” Tim explained thoughtfully as he looked over his cards. “Hit me,”

Barbara slid the next card to Tim. “Well he’s not exactly a normal guy. Weird how?” she asked, as she gave herself another card. Her eyes flashed over them quickly. Twenty. Not bad. She wasn’t exactly sure where Tim was going with this, Bruce never acted like ‘one of the guys’. He was always a little weird. That’s what made him so…

“Darker than usual,” Tim elaborated.

“He’s a pretty dark guy, Tim,” Barbara said skeptically. “What have you got?”

“Twenty-one,” Tim replied, showing her his cards. A Jack, an eight, and a three. Damn. “I know he’s dark, the darkest guy I know, but I mean, strangely dark for him,” Barbara paid attention to Tim’s words as she gathered the cards together and began to shuffle.

“What has he done that is so much darker than usual?”

“Mostly just minor stuff. Well, like last night he went crazy on the Joker. Like crazy mad, he just kept beating on him and beating on him. He just pounded Joker’s face in, no remorse. I mean, it’s not like I’ve never seen him beat the crap out of a badguy or something, but he… He seemed like he’d lost control of himself or something. And when I mentioned it to him afterwards, he…”

“He what?” Barbara asked impatiently as she dealt the cards.

“He shrugged it off like it was nothing. But I saw the look in his face after I called him on it in the first place. He knew he’d crossed the line… But he wouldn’t admit it. I don’t know, it’s just a little scary,” Tim explained. Barbara continued to nod as she listened intently. She had been to busy being tied up to have seen Bruce go on this rage, but she could picture it pretty easily.

“Well give him some time to cool off. He probably just had a bad day or something, had to burn off some steam. I mean, come on Tim, it’s not like there could be anyone better to use as a punching bag than the Joker,” Barbara suggested as she inspected her cards. “Hit or stick?”

“I’ll stick,” Tim groaned. Barbara glanced at her cards.

“Me too. What do you have?”

“Eighteen,” he sighed.

“Me too. Tie goes to the dealer,” she said. She had been listening to Tim, giving him honest feedback, but the whole time her voice had been on something else. Jason. And Dick. Jason was such a great guy… But she couldn’t help but to admit there was something strange about him. It was simply that he was too perfect. I mean- he understood her so well it was… Well, sort of scary. Dick wasn’t right though- he wasn’t a criminal. She could tell. Call it a sixth sense perhaps. But he was hiding something and she didn’t like it. Not one bit.

“No it doesn’t!” Tim said forcefully.

“What?” Barbara asked.

“Tie doesn’t go to the dealer. It goes to me,” Tim declared. Barbara looked at his suspiciously.

“I don’t think so,” she murmured, gathering the cards once again. And after all of that, last night seemed weird. She’d just showed up, completely unannounced and he took her right in. He practically had the bed set up already. And warm milk? Her dad wasn’t even that caring when she was seven. There was something about that milk too… Made her slightly… Well, drowsy, but heck, it was supposed to help her sleep, wasn’t it?

Suddenly she was mad at herself- here you are in the relationship of your dreams, and all she could do was wonder whether or not he was a criminal. What was wrong with her? Perhaps Dick had forever scarred her into thinking all men were selfish jerks. Nah. She was just always on her toes. The aware type. Well, she could tell herself that all she wanted, but she wasn’t quite comfortable with him. Not yet.

“That brings my lead to…” Barbara crunched some numbers off of a small yellow legal pad. “Well let’s just say I murdered you,” she declared after deciding she was just a little to lazy to figure out how much she beat him by.

“Yeah, well Blackjack isn’t my game,” Tim offered as he scratched himself.

“What is your game?” she asked, making conversation.

“I don’t have a game,”

“Why not?”

“God hates me,” Tim declared. Barbara laughed out loud at this as she placed the tightly packed deck of cards into its small cardboard case. She looked at her watch. It was getting pretty late, the Gotham sunset fading to blackness through the window. She should probably have gone, but… The truth be told, she had no interest in meeting Jason tonight. After last night she felt…

She reached for her cell phone, ready to call off the date.

“Who are you calling?”

“Jason,”

“Ooh, gonna talk dirty?” Tim teased. She reached over and slapped him in the back of the head.

“No. I’m canceling our date for tonight. You’re so cool I just have to stay here with you,” Barbara remarked as she punched the numbers into the device. She waited patiently as Tim gave her a devilish smile.

“Hey, you don’t need to tell me I’m sexy,” Tim replied with an edge. Barbara shot him a look, waiting for Jason to pick up. The phone rang, a bored Tim holding his head in his hands as he stared at her.

“Hello?”

“Jason? Hi it’s Barb,”

“Oh hey. How are you?”

“Oh, I’m fine. I was just calling to let you know I’m not going to make it to the restaurant tonight. Something came up- work you know,” she said. She hadn’t even fooled herself- Barbara had a lot of redeeming qualities, but she wasn’t a very good liar. He was also a policeman- he could easily have offered to assist her in her escapade. He responded, however, in the best way she could have imagined. The perfect response, one might say. Perfect…

“Oh, well that’s too bad. I understand though- No problem. We’ll reschedule for another time then?” he proposed. She smiled at this. She was crazy to be avoiding him like this. She almost changed her mind…

“Sounds great. Sorry about this- Friday then?”

“Friday it is,” he responded warmly. She hung up the phone- and despite how well it had gone, it was strange. Very strange. She felt empty. Angry… Confused as well. Jason was just too understanding. But hey, maybe he was just the guy for her, right?

* * * * *

Jason O’Connell walked down the alley, glancing behind him. It was pitch black, the animals of the night stalking the red light district. The area was terrifyingly seedy, the horrible creatures who stalked the darkness whispering, plotting, and violating the law. Jason was gruffy and unshaven- when that police brat cancelled the date he’d figured to hell with it. He smoked the cigarette delicately, holding the tobacco smoke in a moment of release. God that felt good. He looked behind him once more, to make sure he hadn’t been followed. As soon as his vision turned back to where he was going something moved in the shadows, darting after him.

He continued on his way, marching down the alley, the scent of the nearby sewer reeking though the area. Small rats and other nasty animals scurried at the sound of Jason’s clicking footsteps, their long, gangly yellow teeth chattering. Jason was tired- really tired. He’d been up since the night before, staying up on the brat’s computer. He’d gotten some stuff, but not enough. He felt the vanilla folder in his coat, reassuring himself he had remembered the information for the sixteenth time. He was actually more than grateful that the brat had cancelled their “date”. He couldn’t deal with being the perfect boyfriend on this little sleep- and for Christ’s sake he hadn’t even gotten into the little noun’s pants yet!

He walked up to the large wooden door at the end of the alley, and knocked on it three times, quickly and crisply.

“Who’s there?” came a saucy feminine voice.

“Let me in Candice,” Jason mumbled. “I’m not in the mood for this crap,” Jason spun suddenly- he thought he’d heard something. His eyes darted suspiciously around the darkness, his eyes wide and white. He couldn’t make anything out… But he’d heard something. Eh, probably a rat, he thought to himself as he turned back to the door.

Nightwing’s eyes glowed as he looked upon Jason. He felt like swooping in and beating the guy within an inch of his life. Well, that would have to wait.

“What’s the password?” Candice asked tauntingly.

“Shut up, and let me in. Or will I have to tap that sweet ass of yours? Keep you in line?” Jason growled through the door. He’s the perfect boyfriend! He’s everything you never were! Nightwing would have given his right arm to have Barb here to hear this.

“I wouldn’t let you touch me with a twenty foot pole,” Candice recited through the door. Nightwing could hear the metallic clanking of a deadbolt being slid to the side, and the door cracked open, Jason forcing his way in. The two headed in. Neither of them closed the door, but it closed, a third party following them inside amongst the shadows.

Nightwing watched curiously as they entered another room- he recognized the voice before he heard Jason say the other man’s name.

“Ah, a pleasure to be graced by your presence,” Rupert Thorne announced.

“Of course Mr. Thorne. I’ve got a gift for you,” Jason said with an evil grin as he pulled the folder from his jacket, tossing it down on the desk next to the crime lord. Thorne reached over and thumbed through it quickly, his eyes darting over the small packet of information.

“Not bad for one night kid. I’m always happy to see progress,” Thorne complemented. “How are things going with that sweet little Gordon girl?” he asked with a smile. It took all of Dick’s strength not to go flying through the door, busting all of their heads together. He didn’t however. He just gritted his teeth and narrowed his eyes in anguished rage.

“Aw c’mon boss, you know I’m not the kind to kiss and tell. Actually that’s B.S. Nah, She’s the definition of prude. I promise on my life I’ll get between her legs before his is all over though. Or she’ll go down on me,” Jason announced.

In your dreams, dirt bag, Nightwing snarled in his head. You’ll be lucky if you get out of here alive…

“Well, this all looks pretty good,” Thorne said with an evil grin. “Things are going well in the relationship?”

“Things are peachy,”

“Well that’s great. Keep up the good work,” the crime lord announced. Without another word Jason moved out from the room, marching down the hall toward the door to the alley, Nightwing still watching from the shadows. You’re going down, you son of a *****. You are going down.

* * * * *

The room was dark, the only light coming from a heat lamp, which was directed at her babies- they needed the energy. Her starkly beautiful emerald eyes glowed like the gems that they were, peering with glee at her projects- they were her babies and she loved them more than anything in the world. She lifted the small test tube with her delicate green-gloved hands, inspecting the vile quickly before dousing it over one of her plants. It reacted well to the experimental fluid- that was good. Very good. Any substance that could improve the strength of her plants was perfect.

Poison Ivy smiled warmly as the jade-toned tentacles wrapped outwardly, clinging onto something for support. It was so lush and fertile, so innocent and yet powerful, the most beautiful creature- she just loved her babies. Ivy turned and gingerly stalked across her lab, licking her succulent ruby lips as she went. Her succulent, ruby, poison lips. Lips to die for. She lifted the small voice recorder toward those lips, pressing record.

“June 17th. The new Hydrochloride substrate toxin had a positive reaction with my hybrids in test area B. I’ll have to test it against area C to be certain and make sure my control- area A- doesn’t change to confirm the toxin is responsible,” she announced with authority into the tape recorder. She looked around, her emeralds glowing across the lab. Her curvy petite form made its way over to where several sacrificial test subjects were. She reached in, and her elbow length forest-green-gloved hand reached in, clasping a rat by the scruff of its neck.

“I will now test the strength of the plant with the new Hydrochloride substrate toxin against that of a typical laboratory rat,” she announced into the voice recorder, making her way back over to area B. Ivy held the rat out in front of her, the nasty creature writhing in her position. It kicked and scratched- Ivy sighed. Mammals. Simply repulsing.

She dropped it into the small cage where her baby resided, and watched carefully; ready to describe what happened into the recorder. The plant moved quickly- it was sharp, just like its queen, Ivy thought to herself with a happy sigh. The tentacles came flying in, slapping around the rat at key points. With lightning speed the neck and abdomen of the creature was encased with the thick green arms of the creature. They cinched it, the nasty animal squealing in its final moments before its own internal organs began coming out from all points. Her baby tore it apart right after, fur and guts flying.

Ivy reached up and gently brushed her flowing crimson locks away from her eyes. She smiled at the amazing performance of her creation, destroying the rat with such speed and utter brutality, it was amazing. Her pearly-white teeth glistened in the soft glow from the lamp directed at the slaughter.

“The performance of the creature with the Hydrochloride substrate toxin can be classified as,” Ivy paused while she looked for the perfect word. “Optimal,” she finally decided on as she clicked the recorder off. It was certainly good to see how well it had done. This was what Ivy loved the most- just being at lone with her research. Alone with her babies. She continued to walk across toward her bedroom when… The doorbell rung.

Ivy hadn’t heard that chime in so long that she was confused at first as to what it was. Her bright emerald eyes gazed longingly at the door, wondering what to do- she decided to open it. The nymph who referred to herself as Mother Nature’s will pranced over to the door and opened it quickly, ready to respond to whoever was out there.

Harley Quinn stood there, but Ivy didn’t recognize her. She was wearing no make-up whatsoever; her face was pale- its only color coming from the dense black and blue marks formed around the edges. She was dressed in some plain looking clothes she’d picked up at the Salvation Army- T-shirt and jeans. Her blonde hair was tattered in a tangled mess; her sky blue eyes were deep and depressed.

“Can I help you?” Ivy asked. The last thing she needed was some homeless woman trying to get money or something.

“Red- it’s me…” came a voice that Ivy would recognize anywhere. Harley’s jaw dropped and her eyes went white. She was slightly confused, only able to muster out a few words at a time.

“Harl, what happened to you?”

“It’s all my fault really,” Harley stared as she walked into the lab. “Mind if I crash here for awhile?”

* * * * *

Barbara Gordon twisted the key and the door to her apartment opened with a soft click. She sighed as she made her way in, her long red hair pulled tautly into a ponytail. She was dead tired, and felt awful- ugly, awful, and depressed. Mental note, she thought to herself- never stay and watch ‘Must See TV’ with Tim. Ever again. Good kid, but one could get more than tired of his company after awhile. She flicked the light on and closed the door, turning to see a familiar face sitting on her couch.

“Well let yourself right in,” she growled, unimpressed.

“You have to stop seeing Jason,” Nightwing declared. He wasn’t taking no for an answer- not this time. He stared defiantly through his mask at Barb as she glared back at him angrily.

“What?”

“You heard me,” he snapped. “You have to stop seeing him. I tracked him, wanted to see where he was going in the red light district. He’s working for Rupert Thorne, spying on you. You’re Thorne’s inside girl with the cops now,” Nightwing explained quickly. Barbara continued to stare at him, unimpressed. She was angered somewhat, but she expected this from Dick.

“You’re so full of it,” she murmured under her breath as she headed to the kitchen. “Working for Rupert Thorne? Is that a joke?”

“Am I laughing?” Nightwing shot back, recalling her response from the other night. Barbara sneered at this- he couldn’t see her as she had made her way into the kitchen, but he knew she was sneering.

“Tell me, Dick- why should I believe you?” she asked as she emerged back into the living room, a glass of diet coke in her hand. She sipped it delicately as she sat down in the armchair opposite Nightwing.

“Because I’m saying it,” he exclaimed. He knew it wasn’t enough, but it was why she should- Dick wasn’t a liar.

“That’s not good enough. As much as you claim to be a man of your word, you strike me as the raging-jealous type,” Barb thought aloud. Nightwing glared at her. Raging-jealous type?

“Raging-jealous type? I don’t think so,” he growled.

“Look Dick, just admit it- you’d do anything to keep me away from another man as long as you’re alone. You just can’t deal with the idea that I’m seeing someone else!” Barbara screamed, exasperated. She didn’t have the energy to argue with Dick right now, she was just too tired. She wanted him out right now. He’d do anything; say anything to get her away from him.

“He’s working for Thorne, Barb. He’s your pawn- which makes you Thorne’s pawn,” Nightwing murmured slowly. Barb pointed toward the open window at the end of her living room.

“Get out,” she ordered. There was a long awkward pause. Suddenly- wordlessly- Nightwing darted for the window, jumping out into the night, with one swift motion, and was one with the shadows. She stood for a moment, staring at the open window, before walking over and slamming it shut.

[BatKid]

Another nice chapter! Hmmm...can't wait to see Barbara's face when she finds out that Dick was telling the truth all along! I bet Dick will be smirking at the end. :)

Another o'l Bat-villain, Poison Ivy. Can't wait to see how she fits into the story.

I asked it once, and I'll ask it again...where do you get those avatars? :D

[Batgirl]

She is so in for in... Then again, so is Jason. Rock on Game!

[Sweetdreams]

Poor Harley :( ! I hope something really horrible happens to the Joker and Jason. Barbara is sure going to regret not believing Dick. Please post more soon!

Sincerely, Cathy :)

[The Game]

Hey there everybody! Thanks for everyone who responded- BatKid, Batgirl, Sweetdreams.

BatKid- I get the "booty avatars" from the Bruce Timm Gallery. (That's right, he's a pervert too ;) )

I hope everyone is enjoying the story, and as always, feedback is appriciated- well here goes Chapter 5. :)

[The Game]

CHAPTER 5:

“So you see,” Harley explained, slightly long-winded, “It’s actually all my fault,” Ivy continued to inspect her friends injuries- so far she calculated a fractured cheekbone, broken nose, three cracked ribs, various bumps and bruises and absolute humiliation. She paused; looking up from Harley’s deep purple bruises to her baby blue eyes, which gazed longingly into space.

“Harl- explain to me again how this is your fault?” Ivy asked, certainly not convinced.

“Well, I messed up- big time, red- so I kinda deserved this,” Harley murmured as she stared at the ground. Somehow she couldn’t seem to make herself make eye contact with her long time friend.

“How did you mess up?” Ivy asked as she continued to wrap the ace bandage around Harley’s midsection. She knew already that Harley couldn’t have done anything to that psychopathic clown to deserve this- she just had to have Harley admit it. The nerve of that… That maniac.

“Well, I…” Harley began, but she couldn’t seem to find the words. “I’m not really sure, but I know I must have done something wrong. I feel bad…” she trailed off, her eyes gazing longingly. Ivy wished she could just make her friend understand- wished she could make her see him for what he was. Words couldn’t describe how she hated him- she would have given anything to have him there at that moment, just so she watch her plants beat him the way she was beaten. He was a coward, a pathetic menace. To take out his anger of another failure on the woman who tried hardest to give him everything… He was scum, plain and simple. Ivy continued to finish tending to Harley’s battered ribs as she used a clip to fasten the bandage.

“You have nothing to feel bad about- anything at all. Maybe a little pain, maybe you should be distraught- but you didn’t cause this, he did. He’s an insane, homicidal bastard who doesn’t know how to be anything but despicable. He can’t love you the way you love him…” Ivy was cut off by the deep sad look of her friend, who began to whine at this.

“Ivy….” She whimpered, “Don’t talk about Mistah Jay like that…” she droned. Ivy set her jaw and bit her lip- as sweet and wonderful as Harley was, she simply didn’t get it. There was something in her head that wasn’t quite right, and she couldn’t see the Joker for what he was. It wasn’t, however, a typical case. She wasn’t just a girl who could only see the good qualities of the man- Joker had no good qualities. He wasn’t kind, generous, strong, or good-looking. He wasn’t all that smart- maybe in an insane way, and he certainly wasn’t funny.

But she loved him. She really was head over heels for the guy, and it was something that Ivy simply couldn’t comprehend. She was almost mad- she wanted to shake some sense into Harley sometimes, slap her in the back of the head until she got it. But she couldn’t- looking into Harley’s deep, sad eyes was more than she could bear.

“Look, I know you don’t like to hear this, but I really think you need to!” Ivy exclaimed, slightly exasperated. Harley needed to realize- she really needed to realize what scum he was- what a horrible maggot he was, how she deserved better. Oh so much better.

“Red- I’m sorry you feel that way, but it’s…” she paused as if deciding whether or not to say what she was thinking. “It’s really not any of your business,” she declared, and crossed her arms gently, again her eyes moving away from Ivy’s. Ivy could see the glossy tears forming, Harley trying to hide her emotions. Once the most fun, animated, exciting person Ivy had ever known had been reduced to a tattered emotional mess. Her long blonde locks were tangled and torn, and Harley tried to draw the attention away from her teary eyes by stroking it gently. All of this- and who was responsible? The Joker.

Harley broke. She started weeping, tears streaming down her anguished face, losing control of herself. Ivy was there in a second, her arms wrapped around her friend. It was comforting, Ivy clutching Harley like a bawling child; Harley’s tear stricken face resting on Pamela’s shoulder. Ivy suddenly felt Harley return the hug, her embrace was strong and desperate, as if she were holding onto the last thing she had in the world.

“I’m so sorry,” Harley choked out between sobs. “I’m so, so sorry. It’s all my fault,” she cried into her friend’s arms.

“It’s okay,” Ivy whispered back as she stroked Harley’s hair. “It’s okay. It’s not your fault. I love you, okay? You can stay with me as long as you want, he can’t hurt you here. It’s not your fault. It’s not your fault,” Ivy continued, hoping the repetition would help the idea sink into Harley’s head. It was one of the most emotional moments of Pamela Lillian Isley’s life, and she almost shed a tear herself. But she didn’t. Instead, she focused all of that emotion toward one goal that she decided on at that very moment.

She was going to kill the Joker.

* * * * *

Bruce continued to stare at the screen, completely oblivious to anything that might have been going on around him. He’d always been able to channel his concentration very well, but he wouldn’t have known if he’d been clobbered over the head by the Joker- he was too deep in thought for that. His pale blue eyes were distant as he glared at the screen of the Batcomputer. On it was the front page of this morning’s paper- headline blaring “BATMAN SAVES CITY AGAIN”. The picture showed the Gotham Dam.

Nowhere in the article, did it mention his failures. Nowhere did it mention the Joker’s escape. His rage- him beating the Joker badly right before allowing his escape. It just had some mindless, loud-mouthed reporter blabbering on for a page or two about how the Dark Knight had saved the city again. Bruce had a degree in criminal psychology, and was typically an expert on controlling and recognizing his own emotions, but… He felt such a rage at this article he could barley contain it. Just another amazing job by Batman, saving the city again.

The best conclusion that he could draw was that he blamed himself for letting Joker back on the street, and that was being reflected in the article, which overwhelmed him with praise that he didn’t deserve, but that wasn’t it. It was deeper than that.

He’d been awakened by the sound of his own voice screaming, once again reliving the undying horror of the night his parents’ murder. He saw it again, only more vividly than usual- he saw the splatter of their blood on the ground. He felt the temperature of the night. He heard the shock of the people around the corner to the alley as they arrived, finding a lone boy standing emotionless over the body of his two dead parents.

Here he was now- in a deathly trance staring at the computer screen of the Batcave. Nightmares continued to blare in his mind, and he was beyond furious with himself. He thought of going and hitting the training simulator again, before remembering that he had broken the fight simulator. His fist had knocked the robotic head right off the opponent. He’d hit it so hard… Tim and Barb had both been amazed at the speed and power with which he knocked the robotic pate right off; and he could sense their unusual slight fear as he came off in a rage. What was wrong with him?

“Master Bruce?” came a familiar English voice, with a hint of curiosity. Bruce snapped out of his trance and turned to Alfred.

“Yes, Alfred?” Bruce asked desperately. He felt weary just making his lips move- he needed sleep but he couldn’t fall asleep. His groggy eyes focused on his long-time butler who was dressed in his bathrobe, smiling at him rather curiously.

“Are you alright, sir?” he asked, slightly worried. Bruce nodded.

“I had another nightmare. My parents again,” Bruce explained softly, before looking back at the newspaper. He sighed gently. ‘I’ve just had a lot on my mind over the last couple of days, that’s all,” Bruce explained. Alfred walked over and placed a hand kindly on Bruce’s shoulder, feeling the pain of the man who he’d helped raise.

“Master Bruce, you shouldn’t worry about a thing- you should be immensely proud of yourself- you’ve done so much for the people of Gotham that sometimes it amazes even me,” Alfred praised. Bruce smiled meekly, at which point the English butler added, “And even if you are not always proud of yourself, remember, I am proud of you,”

Bruce smiled at his teacher, a man he admired like no other. “Thank you, Alfred,” he declared. The butler smiled back before slowly continuing on his way, leaving Bruce in the Batcave. Leaving Bruce alone with his thoughts, his pride, and his rage.

* * * * *

Jason O’Connell stepped into his bedroom and flicked on the light. He sighed loudly- seeing as it had been such a long day. He pulled off his sweater and the T-shirt he had on under it, before removing his shoes and socks, his pants, flicking off the light, and climbing into bed. He pulled the blankets up near his chin and closed his eyes. He was tired.

With a sharp whoosh, the covers were gone.

“Who’s there!?” Jason called, darting up in bed. His eyes flashed around the dark room, which was cascaded with even darker shadows, looking for movement. He saw nothing at first, and by the time he did, all he saw was a fist flying at his face. A thunderous crack echoed throughout the room as the black fist struck Jason hard in the jaw, and the con artist went slamming back into his pillow. He clutched his face as he rolled over, falling off the bed with a loud thud.

He reached under his bed, snagging a revolver, but by the time he brought it up, thrusting the barrel into the darkness, he was kicked twice in the face by amazingly quick feet, a chop sending his weapon flying. He took one last ditch effort at throwing a punch himself, only to miss completely, his balled fist ripping through the empty air, throwing him off balance before he was slugged in the gut. He fell to the ground, in a heap of gasping desperation.

“Get up,” Nightwing spat with disgust. Just looking at this guy made him want to… When Jason didn’t move after few seconds, Nightwing reached down and grabbed him by his hair, lifting the man up, Jason screaming in pain all the way. By the time the guy was up, Nightwing had a handful of the man’s hair in his hand, which he casually discarded.

“I know you work for Rupert Thorne,” Nightwing began, not sure exactly how to start, but trying to control his rage.

“Who? I don’t know anyone named…”

BAM. Nightwing smashed his fist into Jason’s nose, which began to spew blood violently, the crimson liquid flowing freely down his face. Jason landed on the bed, clutching his face as he howled in pain. Nightwing didn’t waste any time waiting for him to get up, as he reached down, bringing his face right up against Jason’s. He breathed heavily, and could sense the fear in the guy, his eyes narrowing.

“Shut up. Don’t play me for a fool. I know exactly who you are, and I know exactly what you’re doing. If you B.S. me again, I’ll throw you out that window, you got me?” Nightwing snarled, his voice at a tone that was more than menacing. Jason looked confused, but continued to nod his head slowly, licking his own blood. He wasn’t scared so much now, but the nervousness was still evident.

“What do you want?” Jason asked tensley. He appeared like he was trying to think quickly. Nightwing wasn't going to allow that. SNAP. Nightwing brought his knee up and it plowed into Jason’s face as he slammed back down on the bed, bouncing up and down slightly with the shock.

“I’ll do the talking,” Nightwing informed, “Because god gave you two ears and one mouth, so you should listen twice as much as you speak,” Nightwing explained. He waited for the right response.

“What are you talking about?” Jason snarled. Nightwing kneed him again- this time in the groin.

“Didn’t I just tell you that I’m the one who’s doing the talking?” Nightwing mocked. Jason panted in desperation as he grasped his jewels- Nightwing was pleased to see the fear had returned to Jason’ face.

“I know you work for Rupert Thorne. I know you’re the insider, spying on a cop named Barbara Gordon. I am telling you once- you will break off all relations with her, stay away from Thorne, and leave Gotham, and I might let you live. It’s that simple,” Nightwing explained, his dangerous voice angrily spitting in Jason’s face. The con artist/thug was in awe at Nightwing, confused and wondering how he could have done this all so fast.

“Who are you?” he stammered.

“Nightwing,” he replied, deciding to humor the bastard. He stepped back, heading toward the window from which he came. Just when Jason stood up he jolted back, hitting Jason with a spinning roundhouse kick, his foot smashing into Jason’s skull. Jason went flying back, completely unconscious, smashing into his large wooden dresser, which splintered on his impact.

Nightwing flashed a quick grin in the direction of the fallen man.

“Sweet dreams,” he growled, before bolting to the window, and disappearing into the night.

* * * * *

With an earth-shattering screech, the brakes on the airplane kicked in, and the jumbo jet began to land. Several tons of raw force fought its own momentum as the plane slowly slowed to a halt, the large airliner making its way to the terminal. The connecting passageway to the airport came out with a soft robotic hum, lining up against the door to the airplane, and with a loud hiss in connected, relieving the air pressure from the cabin.

Adults, children, and babies all gathered their bags and other carry-on’s, all hurrying about their worthless lives, eager to get on with it, rushing to get somewhere or to somewhere that didn’t matter. One man- a large man- waited patiently, watching everyone leave. His eyes were sharp, darting around the cabin. He was happy, just to be back in Gotham. It wasn’t his home, but there was something about the dark gritty city he loved- he belonged.

After the plane was near vacated, the man stood, grabbing his small shoulder bag, heading toward the aisle. He made his way down, dominating the area. The stewardesses cowered in a strange fear, getting out of his way, the muscular giant heading toward the front. Back in Gotham. With a purpose he desperately wanted to fulfill.

The man made his way down the stepladder of the plain, stepping onto the soil of the city.

“Finally!” he bellowed into the late-night air.

Bane had come back to Gotham.

[Batgirl]

Haha... He soooooooo deserved it... I just hope he doesn't play it up when Babs hears about it... She's gonna be ticked (then later on grateful- maybe she'll do a number on the slimball herself, lol).

[BatKid]

LOL! Jason got his a** kicked! :D

I wonder how Barb will react once she finds out that Nightwing beat the living hell out of her boyfriend. Man, she's gonna be so pissed. But then again, she will be all over Dick once this story is over! :D

Another Bat-villain added to the story...Bane. I hope this doesn't start out to be a villain crap-fest. But, reading your stories, it'll be good in the end. Man, Gotham is so corrupted with these villains.

[witness]

Well, I went away for a week or so and I find not one, but two stories from you!!! Hoo-hah! This is gonna be excellent! :D

First of all, I enjoyed the bit of continuity that you've placed so that your stories are together. The Andrea thing, if no one knows what i'm talking about. Second, I'm shocked! Joker is sooooooo mean to Harley! I can't wait to see what happens there. I'm also interested to see what you'll do with Bane's character! This should prove to be another great story from you! Keep it up!


By the way, congradulations on turning 15!!!!! Sorry it's a little late and all, but I still think you should be wished a happy birthday! :D

[Daughterof_Evil]

Just awesome, thegame. I mean, incredible. The brutal emotions, the humor, the nastiness...you've captured all of it wonderfully and realistically.

I liked Robin and Batman's spat on the dam, mocking each other on their own closeness. And poor Harley! This is a different Joker than the man portrayed in the animated series. He's...darker, more destructive and less sympathetic. Good thing that Jason got his just desserts from our most lovely Nightwing. You've got a great sense of justice. I'm looking forward to more.

[The Game]

Yes, Jason got his butt kicked, just like everyone wanted- but don't worry, he'll get revenge... This new edition is a little darker than before at some points, and is pretty much continuing the story without major happenings...

Thanks alot for all the responses! :) I really appriciate them!

And without further adue...

-The Game

[The Game]

CHAPTER 6:

Cards shuffled back and forth across the poorly lit tables, the low grumble of deep voices humming throughout the club. The place stank of alcohol and tobacco, the deep reek hung in the air, so thick you could practically see it. The Stacked Deck was the breeding ground for the scum of Gotham, thugs, punks, and gangsters at every table. Every one of them had a cigarette in his mouth, a pistol at his side, and a large wager pending in his current game. They all kept their beady eyes flashing around for everything- from an undercover cop to a cheater at the table.

There were a few women there- all of whom were either major players or “escorts”. The wives of several of Gotham’s toughest mob tosses chatted together gingerly at a small table in the corner, laughing it up over their bridge game while their husbands were scattered over the area, all involved in games of extremely high stakes. It was the definition of a dangerous atmosphere.

“Whatcha got?” Carl Bodeski asked, as he eyed his cards quickly. The men around him all tossed their cards on the small table, grunting in disapproval. Carl did likewise- only after seeing he’d won.

“God damn worthless two pair…” one of the men at the table grumbled. The cards were gathered and passed to the next dealer. Carl was smiling to himself while keeping his poker face straight- he was mopping up a small fortune tonight. His chips were colorfully piling up; he was simply making a killing. He knew he had to get out of there some time soon though- his fellow card players were not only angry and anxious but suspicious of foul play.

Bodeski snagged his cards, right before a sickening sigh of awe swept the entire place. He didn’t look up at first- some worthless bum had probably pulled a piece on another worthless bum, but when the guys at his table stood up, their jaws dropping, he took notice. His eyes darted over, and he saw something that was scary to say the least. Batman was in the stacked deck.

The place went silent moments later; a deathly shroud of mystery and darkness had made its way over the club. All eyes were fixated upon the Dark Knight, who stood silently in the doorway, his thick, dark cape drawn about his shoulders. His eyes narrowed as he entered the place, causally glancing around, waiting for the first person to make their move. He knew someone would.

One thug close to him waited until Batman had passed his table, before whipping out a silver 9mm Beretta. He was pulling on the trigger, ready to send the bullet into the heart of the Batman, but a batarang smashed into his hand full force. He was in mild shock as he watched his pistol clatter to the floor, but by the time he could look up once more to see how Batman had done it, a boot crushed his face, sending him flying back, smashing though the table at which he had previously been seated.

“If anyone else wants to get cute, just let me know,” Batman snarled fiercely. He didn’t say it loud, but everyone in the club heard him. You could have heard a pin drop it was so silent. His eyes darted around. Not a soul was moving. Well at least they respect my authority, Batman thought darkly. He decided to make this simple and clear.

“I’m going to make this simple and clear,” he announced. Well at least I’m thinking my mind, he thought to himself. “I’m here to see one man and one man only. Where is Carl Bodeski?” he bellowed. The place was just as silent as ever, but the hairs on the back of Bodeski’s neck sprung right up. Me? Batman wants to see me? He thought to himself desperately. What the hell does he want with me? He felt his palms become moist immediately, and he had to fight hard to stop from losing it. His eyes darted around frantically, searching for somewhere to escape to.

Yes- there was an emergency exit. Bodeski moved as fast as he could- he gathered all of his chips and cash in a bundle between both of his arms, and bolted to the door, some of his money falling from his grasp, creating a trail as he went. He bolted at his top speed, sprinting for the door, losing the cash as he went. Trickles of sweat made its way down his forehead as he made his way to the exit…

With a blinding swirl the cords hit his body and wrapped around with a binding twang. Bodeski hit the floor with a loud thud, looking up to see what had happened. He was dizzy from hitting the ground, bound by a bola wrapped around his midsection. His money was scattered carelessly across the floor as he lay in pain, looking onward helplessly as Batman stood over him.

The Dark Knight reached down and grabbed Bodeski by the shirt.

“I know you sold him the chemicals for his toxins- and I’m only asking once. Where is the Joker?!”

* * * * *

The door to Thorne’s study burst open, a battered and beaten Jason barging in without knocking. The room was warm- that fat pig must have had the heat on despite the warm weather. Jason’s wounds stung more than usual due to the salty sweat that had developed on his forehead. He panted slightly, glancing around for Thorne. He could feel the trickle of blood running down his face, but he was tired of wiping it away.

“Thorne!” he bellowed. He was in no mood to sit around and wait for some fat cat mobster to disrespect him. He needed to talk to Thorne- and he needed to talk to him now. He stood in Thorne’s “lounge”, breathing heavily. He took off his weathered brown leather jacket, tossing it onto one of Thorne’s large lounging chairs, before heading over to the mini-bar. He mopped his head, smearing the blood across his face rather than wiping it away like he had tried to. Damn. He grabbed a bottle of rum and poured himself a shot, and took it, staring into space as he waited for the buzz to kick in.

“Is this important?” he heard Candice ask. He spun to face her- she was standing in the doorway of one of the room’s many door wearing a blouse and panties only, looking annoyed and exasperated. He smiled widely at this, looking over her predicament.

“You and Thorne?” he asked with a chuckle. She sneered at him.

“Not usually- Not since I tried to turn Bane on him. I guess it means he trust me again. A perk of the job,” she grumbled sarcastically. “Again- is this important? I mean- is it worth getting him mad?” she asked.

“Yes- get him up and out here,” Jason demanded as he poured himself another drink. Nightwing. He still couldn’t get over the predicament. What, in god’s name, did that costumed freak want with him? I mean- there are madmen like the Joker out trying to poison all of Gotham, and this punk has nothing better to do than beat the crap out of one of Rupert Thorne’s insiders? To say it didn’t make sense would be an understatement.

Moments later, Candice reemerged from the room, this time dressed in her typical red skirt suit and pumps. She was running her hands through her thick, ebony hair, trying to make herself presentable. Jason couldn’t stop giggling.

“Shut up,” she snarled as she sat down in one of the large recliners. Soon Thorne came out himself, dressed in a bathrobe, his gray hair that was usually slicked back was matted and wild. His eyes were dark and brooding- and angry.

“What the hell do you want, kid? I’m not exactly free all hours of the day you know,” Thorne snarled. Jason glanced at Candice.

“I can see that,” he murmured.

“Get me a drink while you’re over there,” Thorne ordered. “Wait a- What the hell happened to you?” Thorne snapped, looking Jason over. The kid was bruised all over, blood streaming over his face from a large gash on his forehead. He had a black eye and looked like he’d just died and come back to life. Thorne walked over and sat down at his personal lounger- his brown leather chair.

“Glad to see you noticed,” Jason mumbled as he came over, two drinks in hand. “I was crawling into bed, when I was attacked by a masked vigilante. Beat the crap out of me and left me as an unconscious mess,” Jason explained as he gulped some rum. Thorne had a look on his face Jason wasn’t used to seeing on a man as powerful as Thorne.

“Batman?” he gasped.

“No. One of his little buddies. I didn’t recognize him right away, but he calls himself ‘Nightwing’. One of the Bats little buddies. He’s taken exception to the fact that I’m spying on the Gordon chick,” Jason explained. Thorne eased immediately, and sipped his own drink.

“Just this one guy? What the hell does he care about this? Doesn’t he have more important things to be doing?” Thorne asked. Jason couldn’t tell if he was mad about Nightwing, or about being taken away from- his girl.

“I have no clue. Whenever I asked him what he wanted he’d hit me. Hell, maybe he knows the girl or something, but he was pissed, and pissed at me. What do you think I should do? He said if I go near her again he’d come after me. Should I back off?” Jason asked. He wasn’t happy about the scenario at all, but he needed to do something.

“No- no. I need her. The computer chick, right? No, no. Too much valuable information there. If it’s not the Bat, I’ll take care of it. See her like normal, then wait for him to come- my guys will be waiting,” Thorne announced. Jason nodded quickly, and realized from the look Thorne gave him, it was time to make his departure. He stood up silently and grabbed his coat, putting it on.

“It’s taken care of, then?” he asked.

“Yes,” Thorne snarled, making his answer quick as he eyed Candice. He needed to get back in that bedroom. It had been to long since he had felt her…

“I’ll be seeing you then,” Jason said softly, before heading for the door- out into the dark night of Gotham.

* * * * *

The early morning dawn was silhouetted across Joker’s bed; the shadows of his window were displayed across his sheets. He groaned, chuckling softly, the way he always did when he was just waking. He looked around his bed- Harley was nowhere to be seen. Well, that worthless wretch hadn’t come back yet. Oh well. It couldn’t be more than a couple of days before the wench showed up again.

Joker sat up and looked out the window. It hurt his eyes for a quick moment, but he adjusted shortly thereafter. He preferred the night. Everything was simply better dark. Dark, gritty, and hilarious. He lifted his arm, glancing down at it quickly. Yep- still chalk-white. It was not like he was expecting ever to be normal again- or that he wanted to be- it had just become tradition.

He got up and headed to the shower- he needed to clean himself as he was coated in blood. Covered in blood- how funny. There was a naked woman on the floor of his little room- a large slash had torn the skin on her neck, which was now caked in dried blood. She couldn’t be in pain though, the Joker thought, because a large grin was plastered on his face. A nice big, happy smile.

Joker started to laugh hysterically at this- sometimes he just cracked himself up. He stepped into the shower, allowing the heavy cascade of water run down his body. It was cold at first- but he didn’t really mind that- it was just like the darkness, everything was simply better cold. He began to cackle once more- this time for no reason in particular, just because laughing like a madman was something he liked to do. After all, he was a madman.

“Hey boss?” came a loud voice from the next room.

“What do you want? I’m- gasp- naked in here!” The Joker announced as he lathered his hair with the shampoo.

“Boss, me and the boys are going out to breakfast. You want anything?”

“Oooh, goodie!” Joker declared. “Bring me back a one of those funny face pancakes. I love those!” he cackled as the foamy suds were cleansed from his emerald hair. He continued to wash himself all over, before stepping out of the shower and scrubbing himself dry with a towel. He walked into his room and looked through his dresser- which shorts should he wear- the smiley faces, or the dead hookers? The later struck home, so the Clown Prince of Crime decided on the smiley faced boxers. Now, which suit to wear- the purple zoot suit, or the purple zoot suit? Eh, not so many selections here, he laughed to himself.

He dressed himself quickly before heading out into the living room- it looked like the boys had ordered a pizza last night. He sniffed the air triumphantly as he stretched himself.

“Ah! There’s nothing like the smell of henchman body odor in the morning!” he exclaimed. His shiny spats clicked as he walked over to the makeshift “kitchen” and snagged a bottle of orange juice. He chugged it from the bottle, before looking over at Bud and Lou. They looked bored, tired, and lonely without Harley, chained to the wall, like animals. Of course, they were animals. Joker sneered at them, before deciding to try and cheer them up.

“Aw, c’mon boys! Be happy! There’s nothing like a fresh glass of pure Florida orange juice to start your day!” he said cheerily. They didn’t get excited. “Eh, you mangy, lousy, flea-ridden…”

Suddenly something caught his eye- there was a blinking light on the small electrical box next to the telephone. A message? Someone had left him a message? Joker was shocked to say the least, but also pleasantly surprised.

“Oh, it’s probably dear old mom and dad, calling to tell me how proud they are of me!” he said giddily as he pranced over to the answering machine. He pressed the button.

“You have one new message,” the metallic voice of the machine announced.

“Joker- this is a message I want you to know, so you fear the wrath you will face. You have hurt someone for the last time, and you will be hurt in return. You won’t know how, you won’t know when, but it will happen, and you will be dead, ready to face the wrath of hell. I’m going to kill you Joker. I’m going to kill you,” the soft feminine voice informed.

Joker just stared at the machine in silence for a moment, before breaking into hysterics. It was the funniest thing he’d heard all day.

* * * * *

“So I’ll call you tomorrow?” Jason asked, after he finished kissing Barbara. She smiled into his eyes, and nodded vigorously.

“Yeah- call me,” she grinned. Another thing that made Jason perfect- when he told you he’d call, he called. He called! She couldn’t recall an occasion where Dick had claimed he’d call her the next day where he’d followed through. She made a mental note of this- next time she and Dick got into an argument, she’d be sure to bring that up.

“Good night then,” he said, smiling back with his perfect smile. He smiled back and closed the door, heading into her apartment building. Jason turned away, basking in the glow of the early evening. It was dark, but just barley, and he could practically sense Nightwing watching him. He heard a soft scratching of the masked vigilante scuttling from above, in the shadows, as he made his way purposely into the alley- the way Thorne had instructed. He was scared- he shouldn’t have been, but he was. That punk had tossed him around like a rag doll- who knows if Thorne’s thugs could even handle him their selves. He had his own pistol at his side- and his trigger finger was itchy.

“I didn’t think you were this stupid- it’s like you’re asking for it,” Nightwing snarled as he came flying down into the alley. It was dark and wet, and before throwing a punch, he knew he had the edge on the haphazard Jason. The guy’s eyes were wide, and he looked around nervously, as if he were waiting for something to go down.

“Yeah, well, I’ve got some tricks up my sleeve as well,” he snapped- although he didn’t even sound sure of himself. Nightwing’s eyes narrowed slightly, and he looked around quickly- perhaps he’d underestimated this jerk. He waited for a moment- suddenly several gruff looking thugs emerged from the shadows, all armed with semi-automatics. He glanced around- there were maybe twelve of them. Twelve thugs with guns… Nothing I can’t handle, he grumbled to himself.

Jason suddenly smiled. “I guess this is nightie night-time, Nightfreak,” he snarled. Suddenly a bullet flew through the air.

[Panther]

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!

Again with the cliffhangers!

Well, now that I got that out of my sytem - excellent chapter! I loved the description of the club and poker game, as well as the banter between Candice and Jason (that scuzbag). The Joker scene was ...disgusting IMHO. Joker's morning routine is something I definitly don't need a mental picture of! :p But the death threat was interesting, as well as Joker's reaction.

Please post more soon!

[BatKid]

Originally posted by thegame8866
“If anyone else wants to get cute, just let me know,” Batman snarled fiercely. He didn’t say it loud, but everyone in the club heard him. You could have heard a pin drop it was so silent. His eyes darted around. Not a soul was moving. Well at least they respect my authority, Batman thought darkly. He decided to make this simple and clear.

LOL! Nice description of how all the thugs were so scared of Bats. Also liked Batman's comment about at least they respect his authority. That made me chuckle a bit about that whole scene in the club. I agree with Panther also, Joker's daily routine was really freaky and strange.......which fits the character perfectly. :p

Loved at how Joker just laughed at that threat by Poison Ivy, it just shows that Joker hardly takes anything serious, even if it threatens his life.

All in all, great story.

Please post the next chapter soon! :)

[The Game]

Thanks for the kind words, BatKid and Panther. I appriciate them. Sorry I haven't been updating as often as in previous stories, I've just been much busier with school.

Yes- Batman's appearance at the Stacked Deck was supposed to be interesting in the villain's reactions toward him- hopefully it came off well.

I wanted to make Joker's morning routine as strange and sick as ever, leaving off with his creepy cackling at the death threat. That seen is a little to dark for TAS, so I'm going to tone it down a little starting with the next edition, I just want to make the Joker from this story a little creepier and crazier than usual.

I also changed my name. Ha, check that out! :)

Without further adue...

-The Game

[The Game]

CHAPTER 7:

Nightwing moved faster than he ever had before, and he felt like it was all in slow motion- bullet-time- as the blast from the gun whizzed by his head. He tumbled to the ground, but barley had time to get up once again, before more gunfire came in, bullets sinking into the cement that Nightwing had stood on only seconds ago. He leapt for the ladder on the end of the fire escape, and snagged it quickly, using his acrobatic skills from his youth to swing himself to safety. Well- almost safety.

BAM. BAM. The hail of bullets didn’t end, the gunfire ricocheting in every direction as Nightwing scattered away from Jason and Thorne’s henchmen. Damn- dead end, nowhere to go, not even up.

“Get him!” one of them bellowed- Nightwing could hear the footsteps of thugs scattering along the alley- well, here goes nothing. Right as the first one rounded the corner into the next corner of the crack between buildings, Nightwing had already hit him. The second thug was startled upon Dick’s entrance- thrusting his pistol forward in dismay. Nightwing had already sent a small throwing star flying, however, and it sliced the weapon into two equal parts before any fire could emerge from the barrel.

He wasted no time either- lurching forward with a sharp flying kick to the nose. The thug gasped as he fell back into some old trash bags, unconscious. Nightwing swirled to face the next one, and was met by another attacker- this one being a large, burly man with thick forearms covered in tattoos. He grunted like a loud beast as he sent his fist flying, but Nightwing ducked the blow nimbly. He brought his fist up, slugging the guy in the gut, sending the beefy guy doubling over. From there, Dick hit a quick axe kick, smashing his heel down on the back of his neck. The guy went out like a light.

Nightwing clapped his hands together to get the dust off. “It’s all in a day’s work,” he sighed.

CRACK. How could he have been so careless? He only had about one second after the blow to ponder this, before the mind-numbly painful redness overcame his body. His gloved hands grasped the back of his head in a desperate pain- he let out a soft cry of pain as well. Jason had hit him with something- something big, heavy, and hard, and it hurt like a…

“What’s a matter, Nightjerk? Not feeling well?” Jason mocked with ferocity in his voice. Nightwing began to roll away from the fake GCPD detective, but as he did, he received another shot with the man’s weapon. It mowed into his side, smashing him by the ribs, sending him tumbling. Dick gasped for breath desperately, glancing at Jason quickly. He needed to assess his enemy’s weapon, but he couldn’t let Jason see his pain… Too late.

“Aw, c’mon, punk. I just want to play with you. Get up!” he shrieked, as he brought the wrench down. Nightwing was able to move his head precisely two inches to his left, which was exactly all he needed, the weapon sinking into the pavement. Dick made his move- sending his foot rocketing up into Jason’s belly like a bat out of hell. It didn’t take much- the guy fell back, smashing into a large garbage bin.

Nightwing could see the thugs were coming too- it was time to make an exit.

“Yeah, that’s right! Just try and mess with me, you freak!” he could hear Jason scream into the night. All right buddy, now I’m mad, Nightwing thought to himself. He’d deal with Jason one way or another…

* * * * *

The Joker smirked devilishly. The commanding glow of the moon was perfect- the curved sliver of it that was showing resembled his own wicked grin. He enjoyed the breeze- he did- he liked the way the wind felt, blowing through his hair. He was studying the television carefully- straining his eyes with much effort to do so. He could practically feel that his own eyes were bloodshot, the crimson rivers of tiny veins shooting from the pupil outward.

“I always liked that Summer Gleeson. She’s very… Oh, let’s say perky, don’t you think?” Joker asked, not really looking for a reply.

“Uh- yeah boss, well, she’s perky alright,” Mo mumbled between a boorish shoveling of pork-fried rice. Lar appeared to have passed out, somewhere in the other room. Cur looked tired- but it wasn’t stopping him from forcing the last three dumplings down his throat. The whole room was littered with cardboard pizza boxes and cartons of Chinese leftovers strewn about randomly. The place was to dirty for pigs- and it was beginning to bother the Joker too…

“Hey, boss? When’s Harley comin’ back? I’m kinda sick of takeout…” Mo grumbled softly.

“Yeah- and someone needs to clean this place up,” Cur remarked between loud, discourteous chomps.

“Aw, c’mon boys! Bud an’ Lou are practically our own professional cleaning service!” Joker cackled, gesturing to the two pet hyenas, who sat together, lapping up the beer one of them had carelessly spilled earlier. Joker laughed at this heavily- and when he realized no one else was laughing, he laughed even harder. He stopped after awhile, staring into space.

“You’re right. This place is turning into a dump. After all, you never know when company is going to arrive- gotta keep this place looking nice for old batboy, you know,” Joker murmured as he stood up from the couch. He used both hands to brush the crumbs that had encrusted his jacket away as he stepped over mess after mess, making his way across the apartment.

“I can’t go crawling back to her though,” Joker thought aloud, right after he had donned his purple trench coat and fedora. “I’ll find someone though, trust me, boys, I know what I’m doing,” Joker declared. He marched triumphantly to the front door, and with one motion reached for the handle, twisting the round silver knob, the door opening. What he saw on the other side, however, was not what he was expecting.

It moved faster than he could react, the thick green tentacles swarming his body. They were powerful, very strong, almost muscular in their structure, wrapping around his body more times than he could count. They cinched around his wrists and ankles, while the main vines seemed to crush powerfully around his midsection. Joker’s momentary surprise faded to a quick anger, then glee.

“Aw, c’mon, Ivy. You know I’m taken,” Joker chuckled.

“We’ll see if you’re anything, once I get through with you,” the plant creature snarled, its voice more of a revolting hiss than anything else. Joker cringed playfully at this, before deciding to call in the help.

“Boys! Get out here!” he bellowed. Mo and Cur stumbled into the room slowly, but before they had any clue what was going on, two thick green vines from the creature shot out, snapping around their thick necks. The vines continued to tighten around their necks- suffocating them until their faces turned cobalt and they passed out.

“No more time for games, Joker!” the green plant henchman snarled. “I am taking you to your death- you will pay for your crimes against my master!” it insisted. Joker smiled.

“How is ol’ Ivy, anyway?” Joker asked nonchalantly. The creature didn’t answer, only scattering out of the apartment, into the night, with the captive Joker.

* * * * *

His leathery cape was drawn tautly around his shoulders. He didn’t move a muscle, standing atop the roof, glaring down at the apartment. Glaring with unforgiving eyes. He didn’t so much as twitch as Robin glanced in his direction, standing like the dark gargoyle statue that protected Gotham that he was. Robin wasn’t going to say anything at first, but he did.

“You all right?” he asked. He was looking in Batman’s direction, but the Dark Knight was not returning the glance. He didn’t answer right away. “Hey! You alright?” Robin questioned once more. Emotionless. Impassive. Detached. He was so… Distant.

“Why wouldn’t I be okay?” Batman asked coldly, keeping his eyes on the apartment Bodeski had told him about, the same place they had been all night. Robin sighed. He’d never get in.

“You just seem… Distant. Well, I mean, more distant than usual. Something bothering you?” Robin asked once more. The Dark Knight appeared to be annoyed as he shifter his sights from the apartment window to his young partner.

“I’m fine,” he informed sternly. His eyes were narrow, and he was sure to pump a significant amount of authority into his voice. He thought the conversation was over, for all intents and purposes.

“Hey- I might just seem like a kid to you, but you can talk to me. Really, you can,” the kid offered. It almost made Batman smile. Almost.

“Drop it,” he snarled. The kid turned his attention to something like kicking pebbles from the side of the building, angry with his mentor. It was strange, really, how much the kid was like Dick in some respects. Dick was actually more patient, though. And probably smarter as well. Some of the qualities were literally mirrored in both boys though- Bruce would have to be sure not to make the same mistakes he had with the first Robin. The Robin who would barley talk to him. He was pretending to stare through the apartment some more, but he was actually staring at the kid- studying his features. He could tell Tim was building up the nerve to say something.

“I think you need to calm down. Rest or something,” Robin suggested slowly. “I think you’re acting a little dangerous. You’re- You’re going to get yourself hurt, Batman. I’m serious,”

“I appreciate the concern, really, I do. But I’ll be okay,” Batman insisted. His sights turned back to the apartment. Still not back yet? “Let’s head in. Something’s up,” Batman exclaimed. He whipped out his batgrapple and fired it off toward the building, flying off after it moments later.

“Or, we could, once again, go over the fact that bad-guys lie, and Joker may be a thousand miles from here,” Robin murmured to himself the moment Batman was out of earshot. He reluctantly lifted his batgrapple and prepared to fly- blasting it. As soon as he heard the reassuring clank, he leapt from the rooftop, the grapple retracting as he whistled through he air. His cape ruffled as he soared down to the open window- he went in with an entrance, smashing through the window that Batman had already partially broken.

The whole place was trashed. Garbage was all over the floor, the place absolutely reeked. The walls and ceilings had large fragments taken from them were brick could be seen, and rats scurried to fight over the leftover food. It was like something straight out of a movie. Robin was disgusted- out of the corner of his eye he noticed two henchmen, laying on the floor, passed out. Batman emerged from the other room.

“The Joker’s gone. It looks like someone has abducted him,” Batman explained sharply as he walked back toward the window. Robin followed, pulling out his batgrapple. Far away from a distant balcony, a set of eyes was watching the dynamic duo.

“Soon, Batman. Soon,” Bane chuckled.

* * * * *

“Master Bruce, there is a call for you on line one,” Alfred declared as he entered Bruce’s bedroom. The billionaire playboy looked up from his notes- he was tired. It wasn’t late- well, not for Bruce’s standards, maybe one in the morning, but he certainly wasn’t expecting any calls.

“Who is it?” he asked. He wasn’t taking it unless it was important.

“It’s Miss Veronica Vreeland, sir,” Alfred explained. Bruce sighed loudly. True, it wasn’t important, but it was just the kind of person he needed to talk to in order to get his mind off the Joker. He reached over and snagged the handset next to his bed.

“I’ve got it, Alfred,” he told his butler. The noble English gentleman nodded, before making his exit. What would I do without him? Bruce asked himself for the twelve-billionth time. It was true though- Alfred was an essential element to the lives of both Batman and Bruce Wayne- as well as quite possibly the most splendid man alive.

“Ronnie?” Bruce asked softly into the receiver.

“Oh, Bruce, I thought I’d never get hold of you,” Veronica started right off. “I’m going through such a tough time,” she began.

“Shoot,” Bruce instructed. Perhaps hearing about her turmoil would make him appreciate how easy he had it. Or perhaps not. Just hearing her voice was reassuring though- he just like to be talking with someone.

“You wouldn’t believe what’s going on in my so called life. You know that little brunch I was telling you about last week- the benefit for Jackson whatshisface’s charity? Well I was going to plan it all out, you see, ” Veronica droned on- she did have the tendency to drone on, babbling mindlessly for several minutes, before popping the ever-important question to Bruce.

“So what’s up in your life?” she inquired after emptying herself of everything that was up in hers.

“Oh you know. Same old, same old,” Bruce murmured.

“The boring life of the billionaire-bachelor?” Veronica chuckled to herself. “We should really do lunch, you know that Bruce?” she insisted. Bruce smiled at this.

“Oh, Ronnie, what would I do without you,”

* * * * *

The thugs were in awe as they looked on over at the large framed steel door- it had been ripped to shreds. The metal had literally been physically torn in half; the cluttered debris remains were lying on the stone floor. Eventually their shocked eyes were able to tilt up- panning from the cracked steel to the man who had cracked it, standing powerfully over his work.

“Do you still want me to get lost, or do you know who I am?” Bane asked with a sly grin he could pull of at this point. He stood at a rough 6’6”; a giant of a man, layers of bulgingly powerful muscle seemed to be strapped to his body. He was clad in his shiny tight leather and studs look, the thick collar, which encased his twenty-some-odd inch neck, sported spikes jolting outward sharply. Above the collar was the mask- wrapped around his head with the intake for the tubes, which glowed green ominously at the thugs.

“What- what do you want?” one of the punks grumbled quietly as he turned to face Bane. He could only stare at the ground timidly- he had never been so intimidated in his entire life.

“What do I want?” Bane sneered as he walked- he slithered over near the punk who had spoke, moving with shocking speed and agility for someone of his monumental size and strength. “What I want, my friend is too feel the spine of a certain someone snap in half within my very hands. I want to break him, break him hard. Embarrass him. Feel his body turn cold. Listen to his heart stop beating,” Bane whispered. The thug listened to this at the eerie tone Bane delivered it. “I want to break the bat,” he finished triumphantly.

“Yeah, but… Well what I mean is, what do you want from us?” the kid asked again, choking out his words as he forced himself to make contact with the soulless red eyes burning in Bane’s skull.

“I want you, to be the puppets in my game. I need something to draw Batman out- bring him somewhere. I’m thinking a kidnapping. You-“ Bane looked over his audience- “You kids, all… Looks like, ten of you, are going to kidnap someone. Someone important, a rich socialite. I’ll find you the perfect candidate, and you three will abduct her. You’ll tell Batman to come find her somewhere, the Bat shows up. Then I break him. Sound simple enough?” Bane snarled. The kid was a mixture between surprise and embarrassment.

“You want us to work for you- to kidnap a woman so you can kill Batman?” he asked. “Wow, man… Mr… Mr. Bane, that’s a lot of responsibility, I mean, we’re just a couple of guys who are on the wrong side of the law, but we’re not…”

“Are you refusing to work for me?” Bane asked coldly. He knew he sounded dangerous. He knew he was dangerous. And he knew the kid he was talking to must have been scared out of his wits. That’s what Bane liked.

“Well,” the kid began, before gulping loudly. He was forming a thick shiny perspiration on his forehead. “If we were, I mean, if we were, per say, to turn you down, what… How would you react?” he asked. The kid was practically shaking, his hollow baby blue eyes practically welling up in tears as he stared at Bane. The muscle-bound South American allowed his pearly whites to be seen when he smiled broadly.

“Why- if you were to refuse, then no one would leave this room alive. Will you help me?” he asked still grinning. The guy who had been speaking with Bane exchanged a quick look between his buddies, none of which was bold enough to open his mouth. They were all seated around the card table, mouths open, pits sweating. None of them would say a word.

“All we have to do is kidnap someone…?” the guy thought aloud, already knowing he had to. “Well, I guess we have to choice. Our services are yours, <r. Bane,” the punk announced.

“Please, please, drop the formalities. Bane is fine,” the assassin grinned. He reached into his bad and pulled out a vanilla folder, which he tossed casually on the table. “The woman you are to kidnap is in that folder- there’s enough information in there to make it an easy job, as well as a key to the front door of her mansion. She’s rich, so she’s a realistic target for a kidnapping, plus she’s a single woman…” Bane looked the ten over “…Think you can handle her?”

The head talking punk actually chuckled at this.

“Sure, I think we can manage. What’s her name?”

“Veronica Vreeland,” Bane said coolly.

[Coran]

So Bane is up to his old tricks again eh? Trying to break the Bat one more time, just like he's done before. This should be quite interesting. Keep up the good work.

[BatKid]

Bane with his old plan is interesting. I can't wait what else this story has to offer. One question, is all Bane gonna do is trap Batman, or is he going to make him weaker first, just like the Knightfall storyline?

[Sweetdreams]

Please write more soon! I am sitting at the dge of my seat in suspense! I can't wait to find out what Ivy will do the Joker and what Bane with do with Ronnie. :D

[The Game]

Well I guess I could say that I've been busy...

Sorry to anyone who might have been waiting to see what happens, but with school I just lost the time for my story, I guess. Well, I'm here, after 2 months, to resume my story, with the latest chapter.

Feel free to skim through my previous writings, simply to figure out what the heck is going on, and as always, I'd love any feedback you guys could offer.

-The Game

[The Game]

CHAPTER 8:

With a quick slithering motion, the plant came to a rest, soothingly planting itself down on its laurels, the Joker its captive. His eggplant suit was matted, torn at the shoulders where his yellow shirt was jutting out, his knees ripped and scuffed. His usually cheery grin was still smiling, it’s ruby red lips in their usual crescent shape, but a trickle of crimson itself was coming from the corner of his mouth. He peered around wearily. Yes, certainly in a greenhouse. Certainly Poison Ivy’s doing. I’ll kill her for this, Joker thought quickly.

“Comfortable?” the femme fatale quipped as she emerged from the shadows behind some of her shrubbery. She emerged grinning with pouty lips, smiling at the captive Joker. He would have reached over and slapped the look from her face if his wrists hadn’t been wrapped with tentacles from the plant. So smug- someone needed to break every bone in her face.

“Oh I’m peachy doll. Want to loosen the bonds, here?” Joker said with a grin. It was worth a try.

“Oh I don’t think so. I think you need to get comfortable- you might be here for awhile,” Ivy announced as she walked across the greenhouse. She was shaking her curvaceous body mockingly, trying to look as sexy as possible just to spite him. Even while his intense hatred for her was boiling over the edge, he could only glare on her tantalizingly.

“So what’s your game, lady? Want me all to yourself?” he asked with a wide grin. She wasn’t amused as she twitched her hips, stopping to face him. She brushed her luscious red hair over her shoulder out of her face.

“Oh yes. I enjoy your presence so much- there’s something about a chalk-white man with a full head of green-hair and a ruby red grin that… Repulses me beyond belief,” she declared. She walked over and with a quick motion she brought her green-gloved hand smacking up across Joker’s face. He continued to grin evilly- he just liked the contact in a sick, sadistic way.

“Actually I have you here to kill you,” Ivy informed with a pleasurable smile.

“Kill me, eh?” Joker said, anything but amused. He looked around the room, his beady eyes flashing about.

“Yes. Slow and painful. I figured I’d have my plants suffocate you- or tear you apart limb from limb. I want it to be painful though- slow as possible. I’m afraid you would bleed to death, so maybe the suffocation is best. Or maybe…” she glanced at his crotch “There are other ways I can induce pain. A lot of pain,” she smiled, toying with her captive.

“So why not get it over with?” Joker asked. “I’m bored,” he added in announcement. She smiled gingerly.

“You see, your death will bring me a lot of joy- it will make me a happy woman, to see your cold, still form lying breathless. Those foul lips never to breathe another breath. Never to smile again. Those beady eyes never to glare again. Those fists never to hurt anyone. Anyone,” Ivy declared as she watched the Joker. He was actually enraged, but he couldn’t think of anything to do- he was held helpless by the vines.

“But, very simply, I want someone else to enjoy your death. I want her to revel in your pain the same way that I will. I want you to watch you suffer to your death, screaming in agony, and laugh coldly in your face. At your pain. I want her to mock you and pay you back, treating you like the pathetic low-life scum you are. I want her to enjoy your death. I want her to love every minute of it,” Ivy explained slowly.

Joker cackled at this, laughing like a psycho. Correction, laughing like the psycho he was, Ivy thought to herself. She was absolutely furious, enraged. There were many possible reactions she might have expected, but that was certainly not one of them. Laughing. She was going to kill him, and all he could see was the humor in the situation. She would have had her plant tear his head clean off it she hadn’t wanted to see Harley’s expression as he died… She just wanted her friend to get the pleasure from his punishment that she should.

“Fine then. Laugh. We’ll see who’s laughing in the end- Harley and me, or your cold corpse. Something tells me us gals will be chuckling last, what do you say, Joker?” she snarled. He kept laughing so she stormed out- she didn’t have time to deal with a madman.

* * * * *

Veronica paced across the room, opening the refrigerator casually. She basked in the soft glow from the icebox, feeling the chilling aura surround her. She was so very tired, at the end of a long, hard day, and wanted to just collapse. She needed something to drink first- to wash the pills she was about to take down. She had always been a terrible pill-taker, she liked to try and chew them or suck on them until they dissolved. Those options, of course, resulted in a horridly foul taste left over in the mouth, so Veronica decided she would try and tough it out this time.

She popped the pills into her mouth, before taking a large gulp of Cran-Mango to help it go down. She just wanted to drop. Well at least she had good friends, which was one upside. She could always talk to Bruce. That was for sure at least. No matter how hard things got… He had a marvelous quality, you just felt so comfortable telling him anything. She smiled. One good thing in an existence she was sick of. Suddenly she heard a loud bang…

“Who’s there?” she cried, spinning. Her long red locks floated as she glanced in the direction she thought the sound had come from… Her dark mansion was as still as ever, nothing moving in the shadows. She paused, peering carefully…

The powerful arms overwhelmed her quickly, snatching her, wrapping her up. She was in morbid shock, her glass of juice tumbling to the kitchen tiles where it shattered into a million fragments on impact. The pinkish liquid rolled across the floor, but Veronica wasn’t worried about that as she struggled- letting out a loud scream on instinct. The gloved hand came over her mouth with a loud clap- it hurt; the hand was practically slapping her before smothering her into silence.

There was easily more than one of them as they swarmed her- their powerful arms overpowering her. They snagged her around the torso, lifting her up while another one grabbed her ankles, lifting her clear off the floor. She continued to swarm violently, desperately trying to escape, but she was held fast, completely immobile and helpless. They carried her easily- whisking her off as if she were a feather, before throwing her violently onto her own couch. She bounced off the soft cushions, before letting out a short-lived yelp.

“Help! Who are you…” once again the hand came crashing down on her face, smothering her cries of desperation. They all emerged, darkly clad men with scowls on their faces- but she could tell they were nervous. They had never done this before, and Veronica had never experienced it before, but she wasn’t going to let it happen without a fight.

WHAM! She sent her free foot crashing into the groin of one of the thugs who gasped in shock before doubling over- moments later her fingernails jolted over into the eyes of another. She tried to bite the hand of the one who was stifling her screams, but he was too fast. He withdrew his hand and when she wasn’t looking his hand came smacking across her face.

She had no time to react as hands came in, pinning her arms and legs down all over the place. The thug whose eyes had been raked felt his face before looking down at the helpless woman in disgust.

“Get the rope and tie her up,” he snarled furiously. He brought his face down close to hers. “If you weren’t so important to my boss, I’d kill you right now, you know that? I’d beat you, torture you, and kill you. But you’re too important,” he whispered. He reached forward and gently slapped her cheek that was red from the blow it had taken previously. “So we’ll have to save that for later,” he chuckled.

A tear-trickled down her cheek after a pause, and the thug who was in her face seemed to derive pleasure from that. They forced her on her belly, roughly pulling her hands behind her back. They wrapped her wrists in the scratchy nylon, binding and knotting furiously, furthering her helplessness. The hand from her mouth was removed for only a second; a thick gray cloth replaced it as it was tied tightly behind her head.

She grumbled softly, struggling as the man who seemed to be the head of the thugs pulled her up to his face, his breath heavy with stink. He was enjoying having her in this position too much, she thought as she struggled lightly. His hands snatched a handful of her crimson hair, yanking it back, causing her to shriek into her gag.

“Now we just need to deliver you- Bane does not like to kept waiting!” he declared. The bound and gagged woman paused. Bane? As in the assassin Rupert Thorne had hired to kill the Batman? What did he want with…

She didn’t finish her thought as they grabbed her quickly, bustling out into the night. After all, Bane didn’t like to be kept waiting.

* * * * *

There was a certain aura that surrounded a man who thought he couldn’t be touched. A certain despicable, self-confident, ignorant aura that bothered Nightwing to no end. An aura that Rupert Thorne absolutely dripped with. He could barley look at the crime-lord without sending himself crashing through the window, ready to pound the gangster into oblivion. But he resisted as he glared into the small lounge of Rupert Thorne he’d visited only once, the mob boss sitting in front of the television like it was his job.

Nightwing pretty much knew what he was going to say- and he knew it had to be quick. So he deiced to make his move, before anymore unwanted “company” might show up and make this more difficult than it had to be. With one motion he quietly slid the window open, and leapt inside, his feet making a soft pitter-patter on the ground as he moved toward Thorne with alarming quickness.

“What is…?” Thorne began to inquire, alarmed, as he spun around. Nightwing didn’t give him the chance to finish his sentence as he jammed his hand around Throne’s throat, allowing only a rasping scratch to emerge. Nightwing narrowed his eyes as he looked onto the crime lord with disgust.

“I’ll make this quick- for your sake,” Nightwing growled. He tightened his grip as he shoved Throne back into his large armchair. “Have a seat,” he mumbled as Thorne gasped in recovery.

“It seems that you have a certain associate who seems to be bothering a friend of mine- a cop, a Ms. Barbara Gordon. This is a problem,” Nightwing informed. Thorne smiled evilly.

“As far as I’m concerned, they are simply ‘good-friends’. What’s the matter, jealous?” Thorne chuckled.

SMACK. Nightwing didn’t get red. He didn’t scream. He didn’t pound his fists into the ground. He just slapped Rupert Throne across the face as disrespectfully as he possibly could. “I don’t have time to play games, Thorne. It’s really quite simple- keep your minions away from her, and we won’t have any problems- well, at least not until you are foolish enough to cross my path again,” Nightwing explained.

Thorne glared back fiercely. The younger man had humiliated him, but there was nothing he could have done- nothing. “Whatever you wish,” Thorne spat angrily- but Nightwing knew better than to trust him. But he didn’t have the time. He could already here the banging on the door on the far side of Thorne’s lounge- and the desperate cries. “Are you okay, Mr. Thorne?” the brown-nosing bodyguards called out. Nightwing smiled at Thorne one last time before darting for the window.

“Have a pleasant night, Mr. Thorne,” he snapped, before disappearing into the night.

* * * * *

“What are you doing?” Barbara asked bluntly.

Jason froze for a moment, before shutting the computer off quickly, and spinning around. “I was just checking my e-mail. That’s all,” he said plainly. He avoided asking another question defensively- Barbara was a cop and that was a sign of lying she would know. She had a strange look on her face, and Jason knew he had screwed up. I thought she was supposed to be at work all day, he told himself, but it didn’t matter. She was here. How much had she seen?

“Checking your mail?” she asked skeptically. It wasn’t a flirtatious or playful skepticism. It was a suspicious skepticism. Crap.

“Yeah. Just checking- I’m sorry, is that a problem? I didn’t know I wasn’t supposed to use your computer, I’m sorry,” he declared. Barbara thought about her response for a moment. Checking his mail? That sounded lame. Her thoughts ranged. He must be lying- but was it serious or trivial? Was he looking at porn, not wanting her to know, or was he… She didn’t even want to contemplate that. Not now. But Nightwing… It was hard to tell. But either way, Barbara was struck with a new sensation of fear near Jason- he seemed strange, distant, and foreign. Almost dangerous.

“Oh, it’s not a problem,” she murmured as her thoughts continued to race. Well, she’d get to the bottom of this. She’d find a way. This was a job, she thought as she looked into Jason’s eyes- a job for Batgirl.

[Batgirl]

It's about time Barbara got smart! Can't wait to see what she'll do to him...

[witness]

Man, I thought we had lost a talented writer! Good to see you again! Another nice chapter here. I wonder if you'll actually have Harley be mad at Mr. J for a change. That would be something. I agree with Batgirl about Barbara getting smart. I wonder what's gonna happen next?

I do hope that you continue with your other story as well. That Superman story had a really nice beginning. Keep on writing man!

[Panther]

Yeah! Batgirl is on the case! Although, I liked how Nightwing's been handling things. I think, personally, he showed a lot of control.

Very curoius how Veronica works into this. I have a nasty feeling she's going to be a pawn.

Don't keep us waiting too long!

later,

[The Game]

Hey everyone. Panther, witness, and Batgirl, thanks ALOT for responding- it's good to know you guys still care after all this time, and I thank you for your responses.

I apologize for such a long time between updates, and for not responding to many of the other great stories on this board (I will try to more) but I have been really busy.

So, without further adue...

-The Game

[The Game]

CHAPTER 9:
It had been a very, very long night. Batman had left Robin behind this time- he was sick of his young partner's probing questions, and decided Tim should take the night off- maybe he would actually do his homework of something.

The truth was, Tim was a good kid, and Bruce knew it. He often gave the kid a hard time- he was overly critical and he knew it- but it was only in the boys best interest. Perfection was impossible to master, but he had to puch his pupil to come as close to it as possible. Only then could he truly be counted on.

Bruce cared for Tim just as much as he did for Dick or Barbara, but he was... Slightly more cautious with the one he assumed would be his last protoge. He continued to make his way up the long, winding stairs of the Batcave, sighing deeply as he did so. He felt like every night that he was out there was another one he'd have to retire early. Bruce was in the absolute peak of physical shape. For his age. And he wasn't getting any younger. He would never retire though. He could never retire. But he just might have to.

He would get the Joker though- that much was certain. He wouldn't rest until that maniac was straight-jacketed, and locked behind a thick glass door at Arkham. It was insane that someone like the Joker could be out, running wild on the city the way that he did- which is why Batman had to stop him.

"Maybe tommorow night," Bruce sighed aloud to himself.

He made his way to the top of the stone steps, and pressed the large panel on the wall, the grandfather clock sliding to the side, allowing Bruce to step into his domain with ease. He looked around Wayne Manor and smelled the fresh air- no matter what he pretended, years of spending time down in that cave couldn't be good for him.

It was dark, but he could see the clear figure of someone sitting down in a chair. As he got closer, he realized it was Tim, and that the teenager was sleeping soundly.

"Master Bruce," came a quiet older voice from behind him.

"Yes?" Bruce said as he turned to face Alfred. Bruce was smiling, but that smile faded quickly. The English Butler had a dire look on his face, not the usual one he greeted Bruce with.

"Alfred, what's the matter?" Bruce asked with honest concern. Alfred gestured to Tim.

"He wanted to tell you himself, he was more worried than I- it appears," he said as he handed Bruce a video tape, "That your good friend Veronica Vreeland is in trouble," he explained. Bruce took the video and headed straight for the large screen television with the VCR underneath, and placed the video in. It started immeaditley, the face of Summer Gleeson, beautiful as always, lighting up the screen.

"That's right, as we said in our nightly preview, here at News 5, we have recieved an exclusive letter from a group of kidnappers who seem to have abducted millionair socialite Veronica Vreeland. Little is known about their demands..."

Bruce shut it off, but continued to stare blankly at the dark screen.

"When did this air?" he murmured in monotone.

"The late news tonight, sir. Eleven O'Clock I beleive," the butler explained slowly.

"Then we still have time," Bruce said, in a manner than made even Alfred slightly uneasy. "Wake Tim up. I'll need backup on this," he exclaimed, before turning around and marching down toward the cave.

* * * * *

"What? What do you mean?" Ivy asked, more than shocked.

"I have to- well, I just have to see him, just once. We need to straighten this all out, you see," Harley explained as she made her way to the door. Ivy didn't understand- but that wasn't her fault, this was just something Harley and Mistah Jay would have to work out together...

Ivy darted in front of Harley, blocking her from exiting the hideout. "Work things out? With that maniac? Don't you remember what he did to you?" Ivy screamed. She was almost frusterated with Harley- a former brilliant psychologist couldn't possibly be this stupid.

"Red, you don't get it- Mistah Jay and I- we love each other, we just..."

"Well he certainly has a unique way of showing his love," Ivy snorted, as she spun on her heels in protest. Harley grimaced. Ivy had a way of making her feel guilty about her feelings for the brilliant man she loved- but she wasn't going to let that stop her this time. She hoped.

"Oh, c'mon, he doesn't mean it," Harley said with a frown.

"Who are you trying to convince- me, or yourself?" Ivy asked distastefully. Harley hated it when Ivy played these little mind games.

"I'm trying to convince you- I know he loves me," Harley said. Of course, she could sense the uncertainty in her own voice, so she wasn't surprised when Ivy gave her a suspicious look.

"Look Harl- as sure as you seem that you and that maniacal clown are a match made in heaven," Ivy began, her voice dripping with sarcasm, "I think that you need some more time to think about things- I mean, just give it a few more days. You need to fully recouperate to realize how evil he has been. Just spend some more time with me, okay?"

Ivy could sense how weak her argument seemed, but she could also sense Harley questioning her own emotions and instincts. She wouldn't lose her friend to that madman, not again. Especially because that mad man was bound by vines in the back room of her labratory.

Harley appeared to be in deep thought for a moment or two, before smiling broadly.

"Well, okay Red- if you say so!" she grinned. Ivy smiled back. She needed more time to convert her friend so that she would get pleasure from the Joker's death, and this just might be the oppurtunity she needed.

* * * * *

She drifted from a state of unconciousness to a blurry haze. Her head felt as though it was being bashed at with a sledgehammer- it seemed like the worst hangover she had ever expierienced.

"Rise and shine, sweet-heart," Bane growled with a smile. This was all too perfect. Here he had his bait. The news story had aired just like he thought it would. Soon, Batman- ever the detective- would find him and his 'henchmen' in their hideout. And soon thereafter, Batman would be dead. He would be broken.

"Urrgh..." Veronica Vreeland grunted as she managed to open her eyes, the colors flickering violently. "What the... Where am I?" as quickly as the words passed through her lips she remembered, and she suddenly became very aware of her surroundings. "Let me go!" she screamed, lurching forward, but the chains that were snapped around her wrists held her in place. She struggled briefly, before she realized it was fruitless- at that her captor was laughing at her. She frowned and sank back, glaring at the giant in front of her.

"I see that you have come to your senses," Bane grinned. The woman was submissivley cowering as his muscle-bound frame shadowed her, but she was trying not to show her fear- how cute, Bane thought to himself. And disgustingly pathetic.

"What do you want from me... You..."

Bane thought it was funny that she wanted to insult him, but was afraid to. It made him feel powerful, and naturally he liked that. But Bane was the most dominating force the world had ever known, and he was used to that sense of respect. No, he wasn't used to it- he demanded it.

"What? What am I?" Bane asked with an evil smile.

"You monster!" she finally screamed. Bane knew she was planning on saying something worse than that, but chickened out. Bane was some what happy with this, but not happy enough. His arms swung out and his open palm slapped Veronica hard and fast. The smacking sound echoed through the room, just as the sensation vibrated through his hand. Veronica let out a petrified scream of pain and slumped into a small ball as Bane chuckled. He fed off of others fear. And pain.

"Don't worry. You are just an instrument- a toy in my grand scheme. I will be done with you soon enought," Bane announced triumphantly. As soon as the Bat is broken, he continued to himself. Perfect. Just too perfect.

* * * * *

Batgirl slipped in and out of the shadows. It was a dark night, and even in the warm air she was beginning to get cold- it was beginning to drizzle. She was moving quickly, darting across town, but thus far, tracking Jason had been uneventful. She wondered if she was overreacting- wasting her time. But with the computer and Dick's warning... It was enough to get her into spy mode.

She'd followed him from the dry-cleaners to the pharmacist, to the grocery store, and was near exhaustion from simply watching him do these things. She was near the end of her rope, and was minutes away from heading back to her place when...

He started walking toward the red-light district. Even though it was the only reason she had been tracking him, she found it slightly shocking. It was probably mainly that she didn't want to beleive it- but she didn't know anything yet.

She continued to leap from building to building, her sharp baby blue eyes focused intesly on Jason. He wasn't going to escape from her grasp- she definitley wanted to see where he was going.

Her mind began to wander. Was it really possible he was just some thug that she had been with? Just some low-life trying to get inside information on her? She thought about some of the things that they had done together- things he had said to her- it was hard to beleive he might just be some kind of con-man. It made her almost want to cry.

But that wasn't going to happen- not yet anyway.

Eventually he entered a building. He looked somewhat suspicious as he did so, which unnerved her somewhat, but not too much. He slithered into the threshold. She sat on the ledge for another moment as she decided what to do...

"Don't move a muscle, Nightfreak!" came a voice bellowing from behind her.

Batgirl spun around, only to see four gangsters toting automatic weapons. They all had snarles stretched across their faces, their trigger fingers apparently itchy. Her red hair bounced as she contemplated her options.

"Oooh, lookie here boys, it's a lady night freak," one of them chuckled. Right before he opened fire...

-The Game

[Batgirl]

Hey don't worry about the time, as long as you post... But please don't keep us waiting too much longer... (I know, I know... Like I should talk...)

[witness]

You shouldn't have to worry about the time thing. The rest of us don't when it comes to our stories. I've waited a whole month in between posts at times during Judge of Character. There isn't a double standard running around on this board. While everyone says to post soon for the next chapter, most realize that there are other things in the writer's life that can take up time. However, try not to wait too long in between posts.

As for responding to other's stories, it's always welcome. The other writers here love to hear feedback as well. I'm sure that your input is very important to them. I know that it is with me.

That said, onto your story. Things are progressing nicely. I cannot wait to see if Ivy will actually sway Harley's opinion of her dear Mr. J. Still wondering to see if Bane has something new in store for Batman. And Batgirl! You nasty writer you, leaving us hanging like that. Will she get shot or not? Will she find out what Jason is really up to?

Also, when can we expect to see another chapter on your Superman story? I know you said you have been pressed for time, but you had a great beginning with that. I'd hate to see it fade into the background. Hopefully you'll pick up on that soon.

Waiting patiently for more....

[Panther]

I marvel at the way you handle the different plot lines running through this story - all of which I have a hunch will converge at some point. And when they do - boom! Fireworks at the very least, I expect. :D You've done a great job with charcaterization and getting in people's heads - Bruce's self criticism for example as well as Ivy's frustration. And there's the wicked awesome rapid action. You've left off with yet another cliffhanger! Take the time you need - but please don't leave us waiting too long!

later,