JUSTICE: Vengeance Style

[Coran]

(Make sure you read the "Time Waits For No One" and "Vengeance" series before reading this.)
(My dear readers, I have finally started. It's time to wind up my little trilogy. Enjoy!)

Vanessa stood on the balcony overlooking the city. A red silk wrap hung around her shoulders, and her thigh length red sundress flapped in the breeze along with her hair. Two strong arms came up and wrapped around her waist and she smiled evilly as she murmured, "Are you ready for the night of your life?!"

Jason Douglas laughed softly, "Of course I am Veronica."

Vanessa turned and smiled as she gently pushed Jason away, "Go back inside. I'll be with you in just one moment."

Jason smiled; "Don't be too long!" then turned and strolled back into the bedroom.

Vanessa turned and looked back over the city and murmured, "Soon Heather will be avenged also." Then she turned and walked back inside.

A few moments later, a silenced shot filled the bedroom, and then silence. The ghostly figure of Vengeance came to the balcony and extended one arm, firing off a grappling hook. Moments later, Vengeance was gone, leaving behind Jason Douglas' body.

*************************************************

Commissioner Gordon stood in his office, pouring himself a cup of coffee.

"What can you tell me about all these crook that are being killed?" a low voice rang out through the office.

Gordon spun in surprise, but quickly calmed himself as he looked at the broad form of Batman, "Don't you know how to knock?" he asked good humouredly, "One of these days those surprises of yours are gonna give me a heart attack."

Without waiting for a response Gordon walked over to his desk and pulled out a file, then tossed it over to Batman, "Here. All the criminals that have been killed are either rapists are abusers. The same M.O. is used each time. They're all found in a hotel bedroom, with a single .22 bullet shot right between their eyes. From the way we found the boys, we're assuming that the assassin must be a female."

Batman looked over the paper quietly, then lifted his gaze, "Only rapists and abusers?"

Gordon nodded as he turned away towards his filing cabinet, "Yep. If I didn't know better I'd think this was a women's lib thing gone to far." Not getting a response to that statement, Gordon turned around to find himself alone in the room. "I'm never gonna get used to that." He sighed as he returned to sipping his coffee.

*************************************************

Batman sat in the batcave, looking over his computer files. Batgirl and Robin stood right behind him, watching silently. "Whoever is doing this is an expert marksman." Batman said quietly as he looked over the information. "That good a shot every time, is almost impossible, especially with a .22 pistol. That is a short range gun, not made for marksmanship."

Robin glanced at the screen, "At least the person's heart is in the right place. Not many people will be unhappy that these creeps are dieing."

"Murder is never the answer." Batman said coldly. "Even if the creep you're trying to kill deserves it, murder is NEVER" he said forcefully, "the answer!"

Robin nodded quickly, "I know… I know."

Batgirl gave Robin a quick smile of encouragement, then turned her gaze back to the screen, "So do we have any idea who could be doing this?"

Batman shook his head slowly, "There's not enough information. The only evidence at each scene in the bullet between the crook's eyes."

Batgirl nodded and stood there as she looked over Batman's shoulder, then turned and headed off, "I'm going to head off for patrol. Call me on the communicator if you need something."

Moments later Batgirl was gone.

*************************************************

Batgirl stood quietly on the Gotham Clock Tower, looking over the night-lights of the city. Though physically she was there, mentally her thoughts dwelt on one person. Dick Grayson. Batgirl's full lips curved upwards in a small smile as she thought about Dick and how things were working so well between them now. Ever since the Vengeance incident, everything had changed. He was more loving towards her, and was once again acting like he had one they had first started dating: a true gentleman. Batgirl focused herself, bringing her gaze back down to the streets of Gotham. Everything was calm tonight.

*************************************************

Vanessa Hall stood on a balcony, looking at Batgirl through a pair of binoculars. "It appears the heroes are beginning to increase their patrols… I'll have to be more careful."

Vanessa stepped back into her apartment and closed the door, a small smile playing over her lips. "This city has a protector, but now it also has an avenging angel. Very soon criminals will know that to attack a woman means death later on."

*************************************************

Batgirl started slightly when a hand suddenly gripped her shoulder.

"Head home Batgirl." Batman's gruff voice said. "Get some rest."

Batgirl offered a tired smile and a whispered, "Thanks." Then turned and swung off into the night.

Batman stood… hidden by the shadows gazing over the city. Several hours passed, and then Batman's sharp eyes locked onto a movement. A caped figure appeared to be flying above the streets.

With a quick motion, Batman fired his grappling hook and swung off in pursuit. Several minutes passed before the figure he was chasing landed on a building and walked over to the edge, staring down at the street below.

Batman landed noiselessly on the roof and then stalked towards his prey.

"Hello Batman… I don't believe you and I have ever met." Vengeance said as it turned to stare at Batman.

Batman stared coldly at the daunting figure, "No, we haven't met, but I've heard about you Vengeance. What are you doing back in my city?"

Evil laughter filtered through the mask and was whisked away by the gentle wind. "I'm here to avenge the people of Gotham. Putting criminals behind bars is too easy. They just get out and commit the same crimes again. Surely in the experiences you've had with different foes you've noticed that."

Batman smiled coldly, "Some criminals mend their ways Vengeance. I will not let you play judge, jury, and executioner!"

Vengeance laughed coldly, "Try and stop me."

With a quick motion Vengeance lifted it's arm and fired an energy ball directly at Batman.

As Batman used the reflexes that had been honed by years of training and experience to avoid the explosive energy ball, Vengeance back flipped off the building, and disappeared into the night.

*************************************************

Batman stood on the ledge, looking down at Gotham. A few moments passed, then Batman keyed on his communicator.

"Yes Batman?" Alfred's voice answered.

"Call Batgirl and have her meet me back at the cave as quickly as possible. Vengeance has returned." Batman said gruffly.

"Very good sir." Alfred answered. "Batcave out."

*************************************************

The next morning, the three crime fighters went over what little information they had about Vengeance.

Barbara shook her head, "I knew what Derek looked like, but he's dead. Dick said that the new Vengeance is Derek's sister, Vanessa. I've checked all the databases, and there isn't one single pictures of her."

Bruce nodded as he leaned back in his chair, "It would seem that we're chasing a faceless ghost then."

Tim looked over at the two from where he sat on a nearby desk, "I've got an idea!"

Barbara appeared not to hear Tim as she looked at Bruce, "I could try hacking into the FBI and CIA mainframe. That might get us some information."

Tim looked between the two, "Hey… I've got an idea!"

Bruce shook his head as he looked at Barbara, "Too many complications. For that kind of information we need to go through Commissioner Gordan."

Tim glared at the two… tired of being ignored. He then yelled, "I've got an idea!"

Barbara and Bruce looked over at him slightly surprised. "Can't you see we're in the middle of something here Tim?" Bruce asked in a slightly annoyed voice.

Tim glared at Bruce, "I SAID that I have an idea!"

Barbara offered a quick smile to Tim, "Go ahead. What's your idea?"

Tim grinned back at Barbara and then returned his gaze to Bruce, "Why don't we just call in Dick. He must know what Vanessa looks like."

From the stairs leading downward a young man's voice suddenly rang out, "Actually I do."

The three looked up in shock as Dick walked down the stares with a pack on his back. Dick grinned at them, "Don't looks so surprised. Alfred called me when he found out who you were going up against."

Dick then walked over and hugged Barbara quickly, before looking back at Bruce, "I can find her. I know how she works."

*************************************************

A shadowy figure ran along the rooftops of Gotham, leaping easily from one to the other. The figure stopped at the edge of a building, gauging the distance that was obviously too far to jump. A whip hissed outward, and Catwoman swung across, landing on the nearby building. A smile covered Selina Kyle's face as she purred, "It's good to be home."

[The Game]

Yay! I love trilogies. It's great so far, keep going!

[austin norsworthy]

meet the new master of supinse!

[Batgirl]

That is soo cool!!!

Tim looked over at the two from where he sat on a nearby desk, "I've got an idea!"

Barbara appeared not to hear Tim as she looked at Bruce, "I could try hacking into the FBI and CIA mainframe. That might get us some information."

Tim looked between the two, "Hey… I've got an idea!"

Bruce shook his head as he looked at Barbara, "Too many complications. For that kind of information we need to go through Commissioner Gordan."

Tim glared at the two… tired of being ignored. He then yelled, "I've got an idea!"

Barbara and Bruce looked over at him slightly surprised. "Can't you see we're in the middle of something here Tim?" Bruce asked in a slightly annoyed voice.

Tim glared at Bruce, "I SAID that I have an idea!"

lol.That was great!!! Please keep it going, I can't wait to see how this one ends!!! And Selina! Things are going to get VERY interesting...

[Panther]

Wow! Already you'v got a set up for a story that could top the previous two!

"Murder is never the answer." Batman said coldly. "Even if the creep you're trying to kill deserves it, murder is NEVER" he said forcefully, "the answer!"

Now that was the spirt of Batman through and through. I'm impressed - you nailed his character right on the head.

I can't wait for more, especially to see what Catwoman is up to!


Later,

[Daughterof_Evil]

This is cool! I really liked Gordon's line about the " women's lib thing gone too far". Vengeance is a unique character, selecting a specialized group for extermination and then luring them to their deaths with their very vice. Very "poetic justice".

The addition of Tim was a bonus, too. His scene of being ignored in the Batcave was hilarious. I'll be waiting ever so patiently for more!

[witness]

you're doing it again! i thought you would have put this one off for a little while. but i see that you're hard at work, trying to make us all go crazy yet again! the whole i've got an idea bit was great! i'm also interested as to see what role catwoman will play in this story. can't wait for more!

[Coran]

(Friends... Readers... Countrymen! Lend me your ears! Welcome! And let the reading begin!)
(Ok... that was corny I know, but I have a quick message for all of you. Even though I was able to post this chapter quickly, my next couple may take a while because of how busy I am with school, and also because I am busy working on another story with a friend. I'm sorry to say that story has nothing to do with Batman or Superman so I'm sure none of you would be interested. Anyhow... on to the main event. Enjoy!)

Dick Grayson sat on his old bed, as he gently massaged Barbara's shoulders. A contented smile was on her face as she murmured, "I missed you."

Dick smiled and leaned down, kissing her neck quickly before returning to the massage, "I missed you too. I'm glad to be back so I can spend time with you…" a small grin etched over his face as he continued, "even if I have to chase a psychopathic killer at the same time."

Barbara laughed softly, as Dick's hands worked every bit of tenseness and soreness out of her shoulders, "You really know how to make a girl feel special."

Dick laughed softly, "I have to make up for lost time."

Barbara groaned softly as Dick's hands continued their work and she murmured, "I think you've about made up for all of that time… just don't stop."

"Of course Princess… your wish is my command." Dick said with a grin.

*************************************************

Batman stood on the Gotham Clock Tower looking over the city… waiting for Vengeance to appear again. His gaze was hard as he looked for even the slightest sign that Vengeance was nearby. Batman's concentration was so focused, that he failed to here the smallest noise behind him. Suddenly gloved hands covered his eyes and a female voice murmured, "Guess who!"

Reacting on instinct, Batman's hands whipped up, grabbing the arm of the woman behind him and sending her flying sideways.

Catwoman let out a cry that was a combination of surprise and anger. Twisting acrobatically in the air, Catwoman landed on both feet, looking at Batman.

Batman looked at Catwoman quietly… feeling no remorse for having sent her somersaulting. "What are you doing here Selina?" he asked in his normally rumbling voice.

Catwoman smiled as she sauntered back over to Batman, "What? I can't come back into town just because I want to see sexy Batman again?"

Batman glared at her, though he did feel the back of his neck becoming a little warm, "The real reason Selina."

Catwoman leaned back against the wall the closed in the top of the clock tower, "I was bored," She said simply, "and I wanted to see you again."

Batman sighed silently and then growled, "You just don't get it do you."

Catwoman walked forward, a sexy smile on her lips, "Don't get what? Exactly how much I like you and you like me?"

Before Batman could respond, Catwoman was suddenly kissing him. Several minutes passed before Batman stepped away… his breathing slightly harder than usual.

Catwoman smiled and licked her lips, "Looks like I was right. I'll see you later… when you're not so busy." Then Catwoman turned and dove off the building.

Batman looked after her and muttered, "This is JUST what I need!" Then Batman stalked off.

*************************************************

The next day, Bruce Wayne sat in his office going through the normal work of running Wayne Enterprises. Suddenly his intercom buzzed.

"Yes?" Bruce asked impatiently.

"Miss Veronica Halyard is here to see you." His secretary answered quickly.

Bruce though for a moment, "Oh yes… send her in please."

Moments later the door opened, and in walked Veronica Halyard. She had long blonde hair that fell down to her waist, and dark blue eyes. Her red lips were full, and curved up into a smile. Her body curved in all the right places, and she was wearing a skirt and jacket that perfectly complimented her very attractive form. "Mr. Wayne! It's such a pleasure to finally meet you!" Veronica said as she walked up and offered Bruce her hand.

Bruce offered a quick smile and shook her hand, then waved her to a seat, "A pleasure. Please sit down."

Bruce and Veronica sat down and then Bruce asked, "So what can I do for you Miss Halyard?"

"Oh please… call me Veronica." Veronica said quickly. "Well Mr. Wayne," she continued, "as you know my company, "Halyard Incorporated" has become one of the biggest companies in the cybernetics and artificial intelligence industries."

Bruce nodded, "Yes. Even though your company started just a few years ago it has made some tremendous break throughs."

"Well I'm glad to know you keep up on the news." Veronica said with a quick smile. "Anyhow… much of work is government contracts, and there is where my problem lies. As you probably already know, the government is not the best at paying off their debts in a timely manner."

Bruce nodded again, a somewhat curious gleam in his eye as he continued listening.

"If I don't get money from them quickly, we will have to shut down, and that will put millions of people out of jobs. So I had the thought that perhaps our two companies could come to some kind of agreement that would work for our mutual benefits." Veronica finished.

Bruce looked at Veronica carefully, "You mean a merger or partnership."

Veronica nodded with a satisfied smile on her face, "Exactly. With Wayne Enterprise's backing our company, I'm sure we can make many more major break throughs that will help both our companies expand and grow."

Bruce nodded, "How about we discuss this over lunch? Say tomorrow?"

Veronica smiled as she stood, "That would be wonderful."

Bruce pushed his intercom and waited for his secretary to reply.

"Yes Mr. Wayne?"

"Please place reservations for two at 'Shea Ole' for tomorrow at noon."

"Of course sir." Answered the secretary, and then the intercom clicked off.

"Would you like to meet me at the restaurant or should I pick you up?" Bruce asked as he looked at Veronica.

"I'll meet you there. See you tomorrow Mr. Wayne." Veronica answered with a smile as she turned to leave.

"Call me Bruce."

Veronica glanced back, still smiling, "Of course. See you tomorrow Bruce." Then she turned, and strolled out the door.

*************************************************

The moon shone brightly down on the skyline of Gotham City, illuminating the shadowy forms of the bat family.

Batman glanced over at the other three, his eyes narrow, "You all know your assignments. Make sure every sector is patrolled. If Vengeance goes after someone tonight, I want her stopped!"

Robin cheekily grinned at Batman, "See you on the other side Batman." Then turned and dove off the building. His grappling hook caught, and soon he was swinging out and over the city.

Nightwing stepped over to Batgirl and kissed her quickly as he murmured, "See you later." Then he followed his younger teammates example.

Batgirl offered a quick smile to Batman, and then disappeared into the shadows, leaving Batman standing alone in the night light… just the way he liked it.

*************************************************

Catwoman slowly lowered herself down into the jewelry store, and then stood gazing at the gems held within the glass cases. "So easy." She murmured with a smile, that quickly became a frown as she turned to leave, "Too easy… there's no excitement anymore."

Moments later she exited and closed up the skylight. She stood, spun around, and almost slammed into Batman's chest.

"Breaking and entering?" Batman said with a growl, "It appears that the kitten is being naughty again."

Catwoman flashed her famous sultry smile and murmured, "Then come and spank me big boy." Then Catwoman became serious for a change, "Actually, I wasn't breaking and entering. Absolutely nothing was broken even though I did enter. I didn't take anything either."

Batman's eyebrow raised slightly, "Why not?"

Catwoman smiled and stepped closer to Batman, "Let's just say I'm interested in other types of excitement now… excitement where you have a partner."

"Back off Selina." Batman muttered, "Not here… not now."

Catwoman smiled mischievously, "Of course… later then… drop by my apartment and we can have a little fun." Then Catwoman turned and slunk away into the surrounding darkness.

"Women!" Batman growled under his breath as he turned and disappeared into the shadows.

*************************************************

Several hours later Robin landed on top of a building and look around with a bored expression on his face. Absolutely nothing was going on. "How come everyone else always seems to get all of the action?" he muttered as he walked over to the edge and gazed down at the street below. He grinned slightly, his active imagination beginning to run wild; "I bet I could take on Vengeance all by myself… a couple good punches and she'd be down for the count. She probably has a glass jaw too. If only Vengeance was here right now!"

"Be careful what you wish for." Vengeance said as she stepped out of the shadows. "It just might come true."

*************************************************

[austin norsworthy]

Ohh, poor robin. Oh well. {whips out hat and flag with robin sympol on them} Yeahhhh, go robin! sounds like catwoman's feeling more frisky than useul!



Sorry to hear you'll be really busy for the next few days/weeks, but it bulids up supense.

[The Game]

Awesome. That's a nice cliffhanger... GO Robin!!! Keep up the good work.

[Panther]

LOOK OUT ROBIN!!!!!!

>glares at Coran< Ok, putting Nightwing's life in danger was one thing - but picking poor Robin - - - ! (I still got that ticket!)

Very good writing, an excellant post. I loved how Dick is treating Babs! So sweet! Can't wait till you get to the next post!

later

[Coran]

(Well everyone, I was able to find a little more time this weekend then I thought I would have, so here is the next part. Chapter 3. Enjoy!)

Robin spun swiftly, a surprised look on his face, "Wha?" Quickly his eyes narrowed. "You!" he said accusingly. "You're the killer!"

Vengeance laughed and strode forward, "Try and prove a word of that and you'll find yourself in a lot of trouble kid."

"I'm not a kid!" Robin shouted as he angrily dove towards Vengeance.

As fast as a striking snake, Vengeance's left hand rocketed out and grabbed Robin by the scruff of his neck and lifted him up. "Wrong," Vengeance hissed menacingly, "You're a spoiled brat that doesn't deserve to be wearing that suit! You're a little punk who thinks he can be a super-hero, but you're NOTHING" Vengeance yelled, "without your teammates!"

Robin's eyes almost glowed from the anger he felt, but for once, he couldn't think of a snappy comeback. At times like this… actions are better than words he quickly decided, and with a swift move, Robin's foot rocketed towards Vengeance's face.

Robin's foot connected with Vengeance's mask and a hollow clang was heard. Robin let out a cry of pain and then Vengeance's right fist came up and slammed into Robin's face. Robin dropped to the ground; unconscious… bruises already beginning to appear on his left eye and cheek.

Vengeance laughed evilly, and then lept off the building, landing lightly on a balcony below. The doors opened, and scream was heard, following by a silenced pistol shot. Moments later, the menacing figure of Vengeance fired off a grappling hook and disappeared into the night.

*************************************************

"Robin? Come in Robin!" Batgirl called anxiously over the radio.

"He's not responding." Nightwing's voice suddenly came over the radio. "I'm heading over to check out his sector. I'll call you back in a few."

Batgirl stood on the roof impatiently, gazing over the city when suddenly her eyes locked on the shadows form of Vengeance. Without a thought she lept off the building and fired her grappling hook in one smooth motion. Without even realizing it, Batgirl's swing had been perfectly timed so that she slammed into Vengeance's back, knocking Vengeance right off her own grappling hook and down onto the roof of a nearby building. Moments later Batgirl landed, hands on her hips as she looked at Vengeance. "What did you do to Robin?" she asked in a dangerous voice.

Vengeance stood slowly, and stared at Batgirl, "Wouldn't you like to know." She said quietly.

Batgirl lept forward swiftly, her anger overcoming her good sense. "You're going to pay!" she yelled.

Vengeance stood, and simply took the fist that slammed into the chest of the body suit. Batgirl winced as she felt bones break in her hand. Vengeance's left hand suddenly shot over, slamming into Batgirl's side. Batgirl dropped to the ground with a cry of pain as the sound of bones cracking echoed from her chest. "Don't EVER, try that again!" Vengeance growled as she turned and stalked away.

Batgirl lay quietly, the pain from her hand and chest making it hard to even think. Finally she keyed on her microphone. "This is Batgirl… I need assistance." She said through gritted teeth.

"I'm on my way." Batman answered.

*************************************************

In just a matter of hours, both Tim and Barbara were back at the bat cave, and being cared for by the venerable Alfred. Dick hovered worriedly over Barbara, holding tightly to her hand as Alfred carefully wrapped up her cracked ribs and broken hand. "It was like she was invincible." Barbara murmured as she looked at Dick. A confused look came over her face as she finished. "I hit her with my best punch and she didn't even move."

Dick glanced over at Bruce, then carefully picked up Barbara in his arm and carried her upstairs.

Bruce stood looking at the battered form of Tim and murmured, "Apparently she's become more powerful. We'll be ready next time."

*************************************************

The next day, Bruce sat at his reserved table at 'Shea Ole' awaiting the arrival of Veronica. "Looks like my social life is perking up." He thought with a slight smirk. "I've got one beautiful woman that doesn't want to leave Batman alone, and another that seems to show some interest in Bruce Wayne."

In a swift motion, Bruce stood as Veronica walked up, "Nice to see you again." Quickly he stepped over and pulled out her chair for her.

Veronica smiled and sat down, "Thank you very much." She murmured appreciatively.

Bruce quickly sat down across from Veronica. "This is going to be fun." He thought.

*************************************************

On a building across the street from 'Shea Ole' crouched the menacing figure of Vengeance. Vengeance was gazing through the scope of a high-powered sniper rifle at the figures of two people who were sitting in the window of 'Shea Ole'.

"First will be Julio Rodriguez." Vengeance murmured. Julio Rodriguez was a member of the underworld who was known to have very close ties with the Mafia. Several months before Julio Rodriguez's girlfriend had died from being beaten to death, and though it could never be proved, the police suspected that he was the culprit. Vengeance's finger tightened quickly, sending the bullet straight through Julio's evil brain.

Quickly Vengeance shifted the aim of the weapon over to the other target. "And now Jack Foster." Jack Foster was a an assassin, who was known as "Diamond" in the underworld due to the fact that he only accepted payment in diamonds. Several years before, his wife had supposedly committed suicide though it was really murder. One more tightening of the finger, and the second target dropped to the floor.

Vengeance stood and stalked away swiftly before anyone would know it had even been there.

*************************************************

Bruce Wayne was enjoying his lunch with Veronica, when suddenly all hell broke loose. Two shots were fired, and a window had been blown in. Everyone in the restaurant dropped to the floor. After no more shots were heard, Bruce quickly stood and strode over to the bodies. He was surprised to realize that he recognized them both… known criminals. Quickly he looked outside, but there appeared to be no one around.

"Vengeance." He murmured softly.

"What was that Bruce?" Veronica asked softly as she walked up behind him, looking at the bodies with a horrified expression.

"Oh… nothing." He said quickly, spinning around to lead Veronica way from the bodies. "Nothing at all."

*************************************************

Bruce Wayne walked back into Wayne Manor after dropping Veronica off. From the kitchen he could here Tim talked to Alfred.

"And there I was," Tim said excitedly, "facing off with one of the worst villains in history. Vengeance swung at me but I ducked, and then dove, knocking her to the ground. I pounded at her face for several minutes, then lept off. I had Vengeance on the ropes when it happened. I stepped on a metal pole on the ground and tripped, falling to the ground. Before I could do anything Vengeance was on top of me, smashing me in the face, but before I lost consciousness I made sure she had plenty of bruises to remember me by."

"Really sir." Alfred said with a slight smile.

Bruce cleared his throat loudly as he stepped in and looked at Tim pointedly.

Tim smiled sheepishly and then quickly glanced over at a nearby clock, "Well would you look at the time!" Tim got up and moved swiftly out of the kitchen, though his talking could be heard for a little while. "I've got tons of homework to do… I'm gonna be busy this year so I should go ahead and start on my Christmas cards… I should probably write to my pen pal too."

Alfred smiled slightly, and Bruce shook his head… hiding a grin as he muttered, "Kids."

*************************************************

[The Game]

Wow! Of all the great authors on the fanfic boards I never thought you would be caught in the jumble, Coran! Oh well, here I am!

I really liked your latest chapter Coran. Good writing and story development- poor Tim. He got whooped real bad. Keep writing even if others dont respond, this is a great story and I can't wait to see how this Vengeance saga turns out.

[Panther]

Poor Robin and Batgirl! Vengance is really doing a number on them! But it was very sweet how Dick carried her and Tim was so funny with his version of events!

Can't wait for more,

Later,

[Daughterof_Evil]

That was really cool, Coran! I think Tim's got a very vivid imagination. I'm beginning to like this Vengeance lady...even if she beats the crap out of Tim.

Waiting for more!

[Coran]

Nightwing and Batman stood looking over the city of Gotham. "Robin should be back in just a few days, but Batgirl will need to stay out of things for longer. If she takes even a mediocre hit to her ribs, they'll break right through." Batman told Nightwing quietly.

"So what's the plan then? If what the two of them say about Vengeance is true, we're going to need some back up on this one." Nightwing said as he looked at Batman steadily.

Batman nodded slowly, deep in thought and then answered gruffly, "Not yet… I know someone I can ask, but I need to personally see how good Vengeance is."

Nightwing nodded and turned his gaze back to Gotham. "Sounds good."

*************************************************

Vengeance moved silently through the shadows of Gotham City. The next target had been chosen, and it was time for the take out.

Vengeance finally arrived at the intended ledge, and looked down at an apartment in the building just across the street. Two people were standing at the window… one a man and one a woman. The both had their arms around each other in a passionate embrace.

"How cute." Vengeance murmured. Quickly Vengeance lifted the sniper rifle and gazed through the scope at the two lovers. "Assassin…" Vengeance murmured as it locked on the man, and then suddenly turned to lock on the woman, finishing with, "and Mob Boss. Let's finish the job."

The stillness of the night was broken by two shots being fired. Vengeance's two targets dropped to the floor, and then Vengeance stood, swiftly moving away from the scene of the crime.

*************************************************

Nightwing and Batman looked up swiftly upon hearing the gunshot. Without even speaking to each other, they both dove off the side of the building, heading for the location of the gunshots as swiftly as they could.

Batman swung up onto the building and landed silently, gazing around quickly… no one was there.

"Over here Batman!" Nightwing shouted as he dove off and glided over towards another building. Batman moved swiftly, arriving on the other building at the exact same time that Nightwing arrived.

The racing figure of Vengeance had stopped at the shout and was now standing, facing off with the two heroes. "You don't want to get involved." Vengeance's voice hissed out. "This is none of your business."

"Murder is always our business!" Batman growled as he and Nightwing slowly moved forward. "I don't like killing in my city."

Vengeance laughed, "It's not your city anymore. Vengeance is the new justice, and it's time for the old guard to step down and allow the strong to take charge.

"Not a chance!" Gritted out Nightwing as he suddenly lept towards Vengeance in a perfectly flying jump kick.

Vengeance reached up a hand, actually grabbing Nightwing foot. A quick squeeze and Nightwing let out a scream of pain. Vengeance then threw Nightwing aside, not bothering to even look where Nightwing had landed… instead fixing it's gaze directly on Batman. "What now Batman? It's one on one, and you know you can't win in this fight."

Batman continued moving forward, his face grim and eyes hard. "I'll take experience over strength any day." He growled as he suddenly moved forward, punching towards Vengeance.

Vengeance moved up an arm swiftly to block, but then realized that Batman's first punch had been a fake. Batman drew his fist back swiftly, then dropped low, lashing out with his leg in a perfect sweep.

Vengeance fell to the ground with a loud thud, but stood back up just moments later, facing Batman. "It's not that easy." Vengeance growled as it suddenly lept towards Batman, lashing out with one powerful fist."

Batman dove away quickly, and then came up, slamming his booted foot right into the middle of Vengeance's back, driving her back to the ground. "What's important is never easy Vanessa!" Batman murmured as he stood at the ready.

Vengeance stood again, staring at Batman, and suddenly began laughing. "So Dick told you who I am… I'm glad to hear it. But I am much more advanced than who he previously faced."

Nightwing suddenly rose from his crouch, and limped up behind Vengeance. Quickly he lashed out with his good foot, slamming it directly into Vengeance, right between the shoulder blades.

Vengeance collapsed to the ground but once again was able to rise in just a matter of seconds. "Those this has been quite entertaining." Vengeance growled, "I hope you won't mind if I exit the party early." Quickly Vengeance turned, racing away from the two fighters.

Batman's arm shot out and a pair of bolas flew out towards Vengeance. The wrapped around Vengeance's feet, bringing her to the ground again.

"You're not getting away that easy!" Nightwing growled as he and Batman stalked forward.

Vengeance strained her legs slightly, and suddenly the metal wire around her legs snapped. Vengeance quickly stood, "Wrong… it's even easier!"

This time Vengeance simply lept over the edge of the building and then dove straight down towards the street below.

Batman and Nightwing charged over and looked down as Vengeance suddenly activated her cape and glided off into the distance.

"Damn!" Nightwing swore under his breath. "She got away!"

Batman stood silently and murmured, "Next time." Then turned and stalked away with Nightwing close behind him.

*************************************************

Commissioner Gordan stood in the apartment, looking at the two dead bodies that were stretched out on the floor. Tiredly, he reached up one hand to rub at his eye and then returned to the work at hand.

"Vengeance did this." Batman said quietly as he suddenly appeared in the room.

Commissioner Gordan looked over at Batman quickly, then back at the room. "Who's Vengeance?"

"The woman that killed all those criminals in their bedroom." Batman answered as he slowly surveyed the room.

"Looks like she's expanding her range then." Commissioner Gordan said. "She's willing to kill woman also."

"She's becoming more dangerous." Batman said quietly. Before the Commissioner could say anything else, Batman disappeared out the nearby window.

Gordan sighed. "Great…" He muttered. "Just great."

*************************************************

Selina Kyle lay in bed, staring at the ceiling. The room was warm, but the open window allowed the cool night breeze to blow in and caress Selina's form. Selina closed her eyes, enjoying the touch of the air caressing her body. There were many advantages for a girl to sleep in only her undergarments.

"Selina." Batman's voice suddenly rang out.

Selina opened and eye and slowly propped herself up on the bed, leaning back on her elbows. A sexy smile covered her lovely features as she looked at Batman, "I didn't think you'd come… but I'm glad you're here."

"I'm not here for that." Batman answered in a low voice. "I need your help."

Selina tilted her head, a question look on her face, "Care to run that by me again."

"I need your help." Batman said, his voice even lower now. "Batgirl and Robin are both hurt, and Nightwing and I can't do this alone."

"Do what alone?" Selina asked curiously.

"Take on Vengeance."

Selina looked at Batman, her eyes piercing. "What's in it for me?"

"I tell your parole office what a good girl you've been." Batman answered.

Selina shook her head, turning businesslike, "That's not enough."

"What do you want?" Batman growled.

Selina flashed her sultry smile, slipping back into the mode of thought that Batman had begun to become used to, "You and your trust."

"Meaning?" Batman asked in a dangerous voice.

"I want your body and your identity." Selina murmured quietly. Several moments of silence passed as the two looked at each other.

*************************************************

[The Game]

Another nice edition! I really like this Vengeance chick, I can't wait to see how things turn out with her.

"I want your body and your identity." Selina murmured quietly. Several moments of silence passed as the two looked at each other.

NICE! How's he gonna deal with this one?

[Panther]

Oh God! What's gonna happen next?

Also, I'm really curious as to how Vengance got stronger.

Don't keep us in suspense much longer Coran - I still got my ticket. hehehe

later,

[witness]

wow, selina's asking for a lot, isn't she? I too want to know how vengeance has gotten stronger. this is turning out to be a really great story! keep it up! i can't wait for the next chapter!

[Coran]

(Well I'm very lad that everyone is enjoying this story so much. I hope you enjoy this next chapter just as much.)

"No… I won't do that." Batman said quietly as he looked at Selina. "If it was just me I would think about it, but there's more at stake than just MY life… MY identity."

Selina laughed…a sound just like chimes in a light breeze. "I really didn't expect you too." She said, the smile apparent on her face. "But maybe my helping with get you to trust me more. I'll do it."

Batman nodded… the closest he would get to a thank you and then turned to walk towards the window.

"Are you sure you don't want to join me tonight?" Selina asked in an enticing voice. "You can even keep your mask on."

Batman looked over his shoulder at Selina as she brought a hand up to rest on her bare stomach, "I can guarantee you'd like it." She said in a whisper.

Batman stood… apparently tempted, but then turned and walked towards the window. "Meet us at the Gotham Clock Tower tomorrow night… midnight. Come in costume."

Moments later Selina was once again alone in the room. Selina fell back on the bed, a smile on her face as she murmured, "I can see many possibilities in this arrangement… so many wonderful possibilities.

*************************************************

The next day, Bruce Wayne sat in his office.

"Miss Veronica Halyard on line one." Bruce's secretary said over the intercom.

"Thank you." Bruce said quickly and then lifted up the phone.

"Hello Veronica. Sorry our previous lunch got cut so short." He said easily.

"That's not a problem." Veronica answered with a quiet laugh. "Do you think we could get together again? I was thinking perhaps I could come over to your house, say tomorrow for lunch."

"That would be fine." Bruce answered. "Is there anything in particular you would like to have?"

"Oh nothing special. You and I have a lot of talking to do so I'm not sure we'll have as much time to eat." Veronica answered.

"I'll see you tomorrow then." Bruce answered. After they both said their farewells, he hung up, and swiveled in his chair to look over the Gotham skyline.

*************************************************

That night, Batman stood on the Gotham Clock Tower looking over the city.

"Do you think she'll come?" Nightwing asked as he stood next to Batman.

Batman nodded silently, apparently deep in thought.

"Of course I'll come bird boy." Catwoman said as she landed on the roof easily. "But of course I can't call you that anymore." Catwoman continued as she walked up and traced the line of Nightwing's jaw with one finger, "You're no longer a boy."

Nightwing glanced over at Catwoman, "No I'm not, but I'm taken, thank you very much." Then he fell silent, waiting for Batman to say something.

Catwoman smiled and stepped away, returning her gaze to Batman.

Batman stood silently… not even bothering to give Catwoman a glance. Several minutes passed before he finally spoke. "Vengeance is out there and we have to stop her before she can kill anyone else."

Catwoman raised an eyebrow, "And who is Vengeance?"

"Crazy woman who decided to wear a costume so she could exact vengeance on criminals by means of taking their life." Nightwing said quietly as he returned his gaze out over Gotham. "She's one tough customer."

Catwoman smiled as she sauntered up to stand right beside Batman, "Sounds like my kind of woman."

Batman turned and stared at Catwoman hard, and she then lifted her hands placatingly, "I know… I know. Killing is wrong." Then Catwoman lowered her hands and returned Batman's gaze, "So what are you going to do now?"

"Nightwing," Batman said as he swiveled his head to look at his protégé, "start your patrol. If you see Vengeance call us. She's too tough for you to take alone."

Nightwing nodded, and then dove off the building, gliding away gracefully into the darkness of the surrounding night.

"Ooooh… more time alone with Batman." Catwoman purred as she actually stood right up against Batman's side, "I sure am enjoying this assignment."

"Selina…" Batman said in an annoyed voice.

"Fine… we'll do this later. But since we're not going to roll around together now, what are we going to do?" Catwoman asked with an enticing smile.

Batman turned his gaze back to the city, and then pointed to a shadowy looking form that was swinging down the street several blocks away. "We go after her!"

*************************************************

Vengeance stood alone on top of Wayne Tower and just had to laugh. The irony of committing the next murder from on top of Bruce Wayne's own building was definitely something to remember forever.

Suddenly Vengeance fell forward hard as two feet slammed into the middle of Vengeance's back, knocking her to the ground hard. Vengeance rolled and stood, almost faster than the eye could follow. "You just have to keep getting in my way, don't you Batman!" Vengeance growled angrily. "You and I want the same thing! We're both out for justice, but sometimes the police can't provide it! That's why you started! The police can't do it alone!"

Batman stood silently, gazing at Vengeance while Catwoman stood a little ways behind his left shoulder. "We may want the same thing but there is one key difference… you kill. I don't."

Vengeance laughed coldly, "Oh, come on! You can't tell me that you don't feel like celebrating when you hear that yet another creep has died!"

Batman smiled coldly, "Wrong… I can tell you that." With a swift move Batman stepped forward and then spun in a perfect sidekick, slamming his foot right into Vengeance's face.

Vengeance's head turned slightly, and then Vengeance returned its masked gaze to Batman. "Stupid." Vengeance said simply. Suddenly Vengeance's visor glowed red, and the powerful energy beam fired, catching Batman directly in his left shoulder.

Batman gave a slightly grunt of pain as he was sent spinning backward, falling to the ground.

Catwoman lept towards Vengeance with an angry yowl, her eyes glowing with rage. Upon landing on Vengeance, Catwoman's claws slashed directly at Vengeance's throat.

Vengeance moved with incredible speed, swiftly grabbing Catwoman's arm before it could arrive and slash her throat. "Ah…" Vengeance growled. "The girlfriend."

Before Catwoman could respond, Vengeance turned and threw Catwoman right over the edge of the building. Vengeance's strength was incredible and Catwoman sailed outwards for quite some distance. Catwoman's lips parted for her to release an angry yowl, but for once her humanity showed through at full strength. As Catwoman's body fell downward, a scream of anger mixed with terror echoed through the night.

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