The "World of Heroes" DC RPG Season VII

[In2Minds]

[FONT=Franklin Gothic Medium, sans-serif]DOCTOR FATE[/FONT]


“[FONT=Franklin Gothic Medium, sans-serif]I do not know the specifics of it all, as you can see I grow weary from overuse of the Magiks, what's more something is blocking the amulet of Anubis from granting me it's full powers. I cannot hear either Kurt or Inza advising me any more. And now with this danger approaching and your kingdom seeming to be at the centre of it all, I am powerless to do anything”[/FONT]


[FONT=Franklin Gothic Medium, sans-serif]Hector's hand traced his chin slowly, coarse black stubble had sprouted over it in the days he was locked in the pocket dimension making sense of these strange visions. He had no time to think of his appearance now, the fate of the world may be at stake and with his most powerful spells seemingly inaccessible, he felt something that he thought buried years ago. Dr. Fate felt fear.[/FONT]


“[FONT=Franklin Gothic Medium, sans-serif]These visions are still a mystery to me, all I know is that your Trident seems to be the catalyst for this event. In order to fully decipher these images, I have enlisted the help of Jason Blood, no one knows more about Maleficium than he. Orin it is paramount that we must not let this figure procure the Trident of Poseidon, for the time being you must surrender the trident into my custody so we may prevent this disaster.”[/FONT]

 

[trustyside-kick]

"Absolutely, of course. Why I cannot think of anyone I'd trust to guard and protect the Trident of Poseidon more than the talented Dr. Fate. It currently resides in the throne room. And while I am no longer the King of Atlantis, I'm sure Garth will fully understand. After all he has more experience in the craft of magic."

 

[Catman_prb]

"You got shot...again?" Rose asked.

Tim sat down on the bed, his arm wrapped up in a sling. Rose was beginning to show signs of her pregnancy now, though she managed to counter any glow by glaring regularly. She was wrapped up in the covers, reading some magazine that contained lots of pictures of various weapons. Tim sighed and wrapped his good arm around her shoulders.

"Yes," he said "Again,"

"And Bruce is back?" she said, resting her haid warily on his chest.

"Yeup," he said, looking up at the ceiling, lost in thought.

"Will he mind us living in the mansion still?" she asked.

"I shouldn't think so," Tim said.

There was silence for a while.

"It's odd. I've been Robin for...god knows how long. I think that I'm growing out of it now. Maybe someone else needs the role. Shake it up a bit," he murmured quietly.

"...You're hanging up the cape?"

"No," Tim said "Just moving on,"

 

[Karem-Knight]

Gotham City, East Side

An innocent man who had nothing but the thought of going home to see his girl friend after a hard day's work, found out he had taken the wrong train in the city and ended up on East Side Gotham. After calling his girlfriend from an outside pay phone explaining the situation he hung up and proceeded to go back to the subway station. As he entered he found a homeless person ask him for money, willingly he gave the man some change only to be pulled from his arm and have a knife to his throat telling him to go outside; he followed the homeless man and then was approached by a group of men wearing gargoyle masks.

Needless to say, it was becoming a very bad day for this one man.

"Well, well....looks like we've got ourselves a new pinyata for the day!" one of the masked men said pulling out a meat cleaver and slowly analysing the man with it; "Let's have some fun first, boys!" he then kicked the man in the ribs and the other four proceeded to beat him.

"You know, if you're called "The Gargoyles"...."

A voice from behind came the gang of five looked around to see who had came into the alleyway but as they turned back they witnessed the gang leader getting a swift kick to the face.

"....you look way more like pigs."

****
The rest of these psychotic idiots only took around one minute to take down; they seemed to rely more on strength and intimidation rather than actual skill. They also lacked a lot of the intelligence that most other criminals in Gotham have. I go to the guy they just nearly chopped up and lend him a hand.

"You alright?"

"Yeah...thank you so much. But one thing's clear, I'm moving out of here to Metropolis, I hate this city."

"Yeah...I think like that sometimes. But I can't imagine anywhere else I'd like to be in."

The guy looks at me shocked, like he's much more scared of me then he is of the piggies. He runs away thanking one more time as I grapple away onto another one of the rooftops. Running, I intend to catch up on any muggings or drug deals happening at this end of town before all of a sudden my girlfriend/information giver comes onto the con-link.

"Hey...remember me?"

"Hey honey...is something else happening in the city?"

"Not with the way you're handling things, if you keep this up Bruce won't have anything to do. And you know what he's like when he gets bored."

I stop running for a moment and lean down on a curbside as soon as she says that.

"Hey. I just want to make things easier for him; I mean he came back from the dead, was brainwashed and is now he's going to be a granddad."

"Well yeah...but he's Batman."

She chuckles, I would too if I wasn't so worried.

"Yeah but that's just the thing though, I don't want Bruce falling again. He needs time to rest and ease his mind and not go full out like he did at the Opera last night."

"I understand that Dick, but it's you and Tim have replaced him and kept Gotham safe for a whole year. Maybe this is what Bruce needs, time to be Batman again; not for you to be as anti social as he is."

I stop dead on my tracks and sigh as I watch the city lights I just can't help but smile.

"Do you ever get tired of being right all the time?"

"Sometimes."

"Alright, I'll just patrol this area one last time and then I'll come home..okay?"

"Okay, see you in an hour."

The chat ends and as I look down on the street conner and for the uncountable time, I jump down from the rooftop to the floors below to stop something bad from happening.

 

[Andy C.]

I head up to the roof, and look up to the sky.

From one horizon to another, enormous rifts have opened, swirling black vortices of nothing. Did I do this, just by being here? Is Zod doing this somehow? Can anything be done to stop it?

I guess I'll never find out if I just stand here thinking about it.

"Yeah, it's been getting worse and worse," Spider-Man says, looking into all the rips in time and space. "So far, nobody's made heads or tails of it. Reed and the gang have vanished, and Sentry went in not long after. He didn't come out. Doctor Strange says they're not magic, and we're still trying to get in touch with Silver Surfer to see if there's any cosmic mumbo-jumbo he can do. But unless somebody manages to do something, I'm thinking we might be screwed."

I set my eyes on one of the vortices, and make my decision.

"I'm going in. If these things are here because of me, then maybe going into one will close them. At the very least, I may be able to find your friends."

"Well, nice meeting ya, I guess."

I take flight, then turn back for a second to Spider-Man.

"One question, before I go. Why did you set me free when all the other heroes around here wanted me locked up? You just met me, you have no idea what I might do or what my motivations are. How exactly did you know I was going to try to help you out?"

He shrugs, like it's something I should already know.

"Y'know, I'm not sure, now that I think about it. But, I mean, look at you. I can't say why I trust you, or even that I trust you at all, but c'mon, you're, well...you."

Spider-Man's answer is...confusing, at best. But I really don't have time to get him to clarify what he meant.

I cross my fingers, and fly straight into the heart of the nearest vortex.

 

[wiegeabo]

I land in the backyard of Mary's house and let myself in as has become our routine.

"Hey, hun," she says as she walks past, some sort of cleaning supplies in her hands.

"Hello. Are you busy?"

"No, not really. Just getting a little cleaning done before picking Sam up from school."

I nod, grateful that it's just the two of us. Mary glances my way as she steps past the doorway, but she must have picked up something in my expression because she walks back. "What's wrong?"

"You know me that well?"

She puts the cleaning supplies down. "I do. So, what is it?" To her credit, she keeps her voice steady. But I also know her well.

"The Guardians of the Universe..."

"The...little blue guys you told me about? Head of the Corps?"

"Yes. They...are calling me back to Oa. To face trial."

Mary doesn't even try to hide her feelings. I see anger, fear, denial, concern, and so many others flash by in a second. "For what?"

I smile. "I use to be a villain, Mary. I've done horrible things since being banished from the Corps. Even as part of the Corps."

"But you're not that person anymore. You're trying to make things right now."

I sit down, and Mary does the same. "I know. I'm trying to make everything right. The work I've done is the only reason I was able to convince them to give this...probationary period. To try and prove myself to them."

"But...what happens if they don't believe you?"

"If I am lucky...they will lock me away on Oa. Perhaps for the rest of my life. I am not sure."

Tears sting at Mary's eyes and she quickly stands up, anger and fear in her voice. "And...if you're not...lucky?"

I exhale. "I doubt they would banish me again. I would expect...the death penalty."

Mary trembles. I can't tell if it's with fury or grief. Possibly both. "I can't lose you."

I quickly step up behind her and wrap my arms around her. "You won't."

"You can run. Don't let them take you. Hide from them."

"They will never stop looking for me. And I will still be gone."

She spins around in my arms and looks up at me. "You can take us with you."

"No. Absolutely not. I refuse to have you both living on the run for me. That's no life for either you or Samantha. And I will no longer live like that."

"I know, it's just..."

"I don't want them to rule against me either, but I will abide by their decision. If I am going to represent order once again, then I must follow it where ever it takes me."

"But who gave them the authority-!"

"I do."

We look at one another, and Mary tries to come up with more arguments to talk me out of my decision. But she sees that none will sway me, and instead clutches me tightly. And I hold her just as tight.

"When are they coming for you?"

"Tomorrow."

"That's not enough time."

"I know."

"If you ever again wait until the last minute to tell me something this important after you get back..."

I smile. "I promise. Never again."

 

[Byrd Man]

"I was beginning to wonder about you."​

I calmly step out of the shadows next to the signal.​

"See with Nightwing, he's very good about getting the drop on me, but not that good. Robin, needs practice. But you on the other hand? Well, I don't realize you're there until it's too late."​

"Jim, I'm thinking about giving it up."​

Gordon stares at me. Wind brushes the rooftop as the seconds pass by.​

"No. You can't and you won't."​

"Nightwing and Robin can fill the void."​

"With all due respect, I call ******** on that."​

"Explain."​

"What do I need to explain? You saw for yourself at the Opera House tonight. Both men are capable, sure. But without you, this city falls apart."​

"Nothing has changed since I first started. Gotham's mobsters were just replaced by lunatics who were twice as dangerous."​

"That's not the point and you know it. This past year and a half, since you've been gone...the city almost collapsed on itself. Anarachy was everywhere. I haven't seen anything that bad since the quake and No Man's Land."​

"I'm just one man."​

"Stop and listen for a second. What do you hear? I mean, around us."​

It slowly dawns on me what he's talking about. In all my years in Gotham City, tonight is the first time I have heard the city become almost silent.​

"Those people who were raising hell a week ago, well they're back home tonight. Scared. They know the real deal is back in town."​

"This is more than just fighting crime. My original intentions have become corrupted, I'm afraid of how far I may go if I continue."​

"You can't and you won't give up. You cannot betray the oath we made on this rooftop. You and me and a third member. We lost Harvey to madness, I will not lose you to apathy."​

I remain silent and watch as he pops gum into his mouth.​

"Nicorette."​

"Jim, I-"​

"I understand how you feel, believe me. After that mess with Joker and Barbara and then Joker and Sarah I just wanted to.....die. I was beaten. My spirit and body couldn't take the punishment....but I manage to stand up and move on. Those things still haunt me to this day, but I'm able to cope with them. Not a day goes by I wish Sarah was still alive, or Barbara had not been attacked."​

"I don't see what this has to do with-"​

"Let me finish. All those years you've been disappearing on me, Iwant you hear this."​

I cross my arms and stare at him. Finally, I give him a nod.​

"Whatever pain you've felt, whatever inspired you to become Batman, that has changed. You may still feel that pain, but I believe you have moved on from it. Now you don't do this because of them, you do it because of you. Your guilt now outweighs your anger."​

Clever. Jim knows my real identity, but he'd never come out and tell me.​

"Is that all?"​

"No. I wanted to say this: keep doing it. That pain will never go away, the pain you feel for them and the pain you feel for the others in your life. But the best we can ever hope to do is stand up and get to work"​

Gordon turns and spits out the gum.​

"That taste is pretty horrible. One more thing,"​

When he turns to look, I'm gone.​

"I'm glad you're back."​

 

[In2Minds]

[FONT=Franklin Gothic Medium, sans-serif]Doctor Fate[/FONT]


[FONT=Franklin Gothic Medium, sans-serif]Fate pondered for a few seconds, proceeding to steeple his fingers for a few seconds, as he stared at the Helm, letting out a heavy sigh, he stood up, slipping the Helm on his grizzled cheeks and stepping over to the Altar [/FONT]


[FONT=Franklin Gothic Medium, sans-serif]He began to chant slowly, softly at fists as his hands whirled in small circles over the Altar of Fate, a glowing ankh appearing above him, slowly growing in size as he continued, the fabric of reality tearing slowly, creating a portal for the both of them into the world of Atlantis. Almost as an after thought, another portal was opening to the Gotham History Museum.[/FONT]


[FONT=Franklin Gothic Medium, sans-serif]The Portal showed Jason Blood hard at work pouring over tomes that were centuries old,trying to find a reason for Fate's mysterious barrier from Magik.[/FONT]




[FONT=Franklin Gothic Medium, sans-serif]Fate turned to Orin.“Come, We have much to do, I assume the Spells placed on Atlantis to deter unwanted guests are still in place?”[/FONT]

 

[In2Minds]

[FONT=Bodoni MT, serif]Etrigan The Demon [/FONT]


[FONT=Bodoni MT, serif]Jason Sat at his desk, flipping through volume after volume of Arcane magic and research trying to find some reason or clue to Hector Hall's sudden lack of magical energy, it made no sense, Etrigan was still at full strength, or at least he should have been. Although he could definitely sense something, it was hard to pinpoint exactly what, after all the powers of the Demon could only take him so far.[/FONT]


[FONT=Bodoni MT, serif]He turned another page slowly, as one of Fate's Trademark Portal's opened in front of him, he looked up staring into the swirling depths “Hector ,My friend neither I nor The demon have made much progress in the task you set us, I will continue my research, you know where we are if you need either of us” [/FONT]


[FONT=Bodoni MT, serif]Fate nodded as the tear in reality faded, stitching the world back together in seconds, Jason sat there and couldn't help but wonder why it was only Fate who was affected by this magical affliction. [/FONT]

 

[trustyside-kick]

[FONT=Franklin Gothic Medium, sans-serif]Fate turned to Orin.“Come, We have much to do, I assume the Spells placed on Atlantis to deter unwanted guests are still in place?”[/FONT]

"Only in certain regions throughout the city. But we need not worry. I have safe passage through all of Poseidonis so we need not worry about any spells getting in our way."

Dr. Fate nods, and proceeds to find the place of re-entry. Using the mystic arts that remain to be in his possession, he magically traces the Trident of Poseidon. It resides in the throne room just like Aquaman had said it would. With the spot for re-entry now fully aware to the sorcerer, an ankh symbol appears before the duo and glows brilliantly. In the center of the ankh the throne room of Poseidonis is in full view, with Garth at its throne and Vulko at the steps of the throne discussing a matter with Tempest.

Stepping through the portal, instantly the Marine Marvel and Hector Hall find themselves in the presence of Garth and Vulko.

"Now, Garth, when we--Orin! Why, where did you come from?"

Tempest doesn't feel the need to ask questions to Aquaman himself as Dr. Fate is in company with the Aquatic Ace. The former side-kick turns to face the grand magician instead of Orin, letting out his question.

"Fate, this is a surprise. What brings you to Atlantica?"

"I apologize for my unplanned visit into your chambers, Tempest. But there is a matter at hand that must be attended to. All precautions that can take place should be considered."

"It is the trident, Garth. Fate has had visions and indescribable lack of control over the magic of this realm. He fears that something is amiss and that the catalyst of it all is Poseidon's trident. I think you'd agree with me that the artifact should be placed in Fate's custody to ensure that such evil cannot act out this vision of his."

"Well there is the execution taking place tomorrow. I had originally planned to use the power of the trident to channel the magical energies needed to cast my spell for Hagen's execution. But, I suppose I could gather the elder mages to supply and siphon the energy necessary. After all, who better to protect and guard such an item other than Hector Hall? If there is any hint of a danger coming, and the trident does indeed play a major role than I would be a fool to keep it within these walls. For the time being the Trident of Poseidon may rest with you, Fate. Guard it well."

"My thanks, King Garth. Thank you."

Tempest nods, and then looks at Orin who then walks over to the pedestal where the trident lies on the surface of. Taking it up in his hands, he slowly walks over to the magician and place and extends the item outward with his mystical hand. As Hector Hall takes one end of the trident, suddenly the Marine Marvel senses something strange through the water hand: a slight glimpse of the vision Fate had been talking about.

He pauses for a moment, holding onto the end of the trident and then shakes his head.

"Sorry. That...was certainly strange. I briefly had a vision myself, Fate. While my powers with the Secret Sea are still that of a novice when it comes to foresight, I do believe we must get Poseidon's trident away from Atlantis immediately. Here."

Letting go of the trident, Dr. Fate now clasps the powerful artifact in both hands.

"Thank you, my friends..."

There is a sudden pause in Hector's speech, as though struggling to carry on with his words. That feeling soon passes and he bows before the former and current King.

"...you're...cooperation is much appreciated."

The ankh symbols appears behind Dr. Fate, and the magician floats in the air, traveling backwards with the trident in his hands. As he passes through the ankh he disappears just before the portal does.

 

[Byrd Man]

Alex Campbell was Batman.

For the past year he had been one of the many Batmen in Gotham City. He spent his nights assaulting criminals in his homemade costume, using a nightstick and taser he had gotten from a pawnshop.

The majority of his life, Alex had always been the victim. At work, his boss pushed him around, at home it was his nagging wife. Even his friends walked all over him, always asking favors of him but never helping him.

His nights as a Batman made up for all that. Out here he was truly free. There wasn't a problem he could beat or tase. Even now, as he perched on the East End roof in the middle of the night, he was as happy as he could be. He was so lost in thought, he didn't hear the rush of cloth and the boot sailing through the air.

WHAM!

Alex was sent reeling, landing on the gravel spread-eagle. He felt his bladder go as he looked up and saw the face of his attacker.

"This will be your first and only warning. If I ever catch you out here again, wearing that costume, my retribution will be swift and ruthless."

The imposter gulped and stuttered. Before he could utter a coherent word, Batman was gone.

Alex stood up and removed his homemade cowl. He glanced down at his wet crotch and his face face flushed.

As fun as it had been, Alex Campbell now needed a new hobby.

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

Four hours in, and I've already scared off two imposters. The last one was easy, this one won't be. I've watched four the last two hours. She's good, but still not prepared for the real villains.

I finally make my presence known, stepping out of the shadows as she patrols.

"You!"
​

"This will be your first and only warning. If I ever catch you out here again, wearing that costume, my retribution will be swift and ruthless."

I turn to leave, when I do I feel her hand on my arm.

"Wait."

I humor her because I know I can take her out if this gets violent.

"What?"

"You just come back and I'm suppose to quit, like I'm some kind of rent-a-cop? No, sir. It doesn't work like that."

"I don't need a Batgirl."

"Pssh. Batgirl. I'm Batwoman."

"I can do it better than you."

"Says who?"

"The fact that I'm still alive speaks for me."

"Yeah, but if you didn't die, you turned tail and ran."

I'm close to pushing her down and leaving, but gunshots off in the distance stops me.

"That came from Breyfogle Avenue."

"Second Street."

I turn and run across the rooftops. The smell of gunpowder fills the air as I leap from the rooftop down in the middle of a gang fight. Ten young men total, all of them shooting semi-automatic pistols and crouching behind barrels and crates.

"It's the bat!"

All guns turn on me, but a red and black blur diverts the gangs attention.

"Holy ****, he got a ho with him!"

Three quick batarang tosses disable three armed thugs. I hear the sound of bones crunching behind me. Five for me, five for her.

One of the young men charge me, I kick up my cape and sidestep him. The cape distracts the gang member long enough for me to place my hands on the back of his neck and forcefully drive him into the ground. A crunch and free flowing blood tell me the nose is broken. The last gang member aims his gun at me and it dry clicks. His eyes go wide as I charge and pile drive him into the cement.

With the ones on my side out of commission, I turn and watch her fight the last two. A roundhouse kick breaks one gang members jaw, but the last one pulls his gun before she can recover.

I clip him with a batarang and let her take him down with a karate chop to the throat.

"That was....that was fun," she rasps. I remain silent as I step over the unconscious and moaning criminals.

"Oracle, are you there?"

"That's a 10-4."

"What do you think?"

"I could always use another Bird. And, she certainly seems to be the best out here that isn't affiliated with us."

I give the woman a long, hard look. Finally, I reach into my utility belt and toss her a small communicator.

"I'll be in touch."

"Does this mean I'm good to go?"

I shoot a grapnel into the air, glancing towards her.

"I'll be in touch, Batwoman."

The grapnel line goes tight and I disappear into the night.
​

 

[Watchman]

The transport moved quickly over the battlefield below. It moved toward a large fortress which was being flanked on all sides.

"Welcome, to what is the last bit of land own by Rann. The armies of Last Son came from nowhere. Just appeared one day. At first the battle was a stalemate. Then they attacked our technology. Something happened no one could figure it out not even Sardath. Then came the force field. It completely closed off Rann from any help. Even Vath Sarn is unaware of what is happening. Then came the thought disease. It destroyed the people of Rann minds before turning them against one another. I've fought against too many friends for a lifetime. I thought the nightmare couldn't get any worst until they took Alanna and Aleea away. Away to the nightmare camp. I've seen spy pictures of these place. I couldn't do anything to stop it. This is truly the end isn't it?"

"No it isn't. If there is anything I can do to help...."

"Thank you. Your presence here gives me hope for some reason but Last Son is too well protected and our weapons are harmless against his army. A combination of technology from thousands of different races and some I haven't seen before. Not to mention his "superhero" team."

"Superhero team?"

"The CSA. They proclaim themselves as the new protectors of the universe." Something hit the side of the transporter. It began to head straight for the ground. I went to the exit. I had no idea what I was about to do but something deep down inside of me urge me on. Something before I forgot everything. I stepped out into the air and I was...I was...

I was flying.

I was able to catch the transporter easily. I wasn't even breaking a sweat. I carried it to the ground gently. We near the fortress perhaps a little less than a mile. The rest of crew came out astounded.

"How did you do that?"

"I'm not sure exactly." I was now floating over them. These powers I can use this. Adam and his men can use it. Where ever I came from is not important right now I had to protect these people.

"Who ever you are. Thank you. I think you are the hope the people of Rann need. Listen I can solve the problem with your head we have people who can help but I need your help, stranger."

"I will do everything in my power to get your wife and daughter back." Something blew up the rest of the transporter.

"Oh no. Not him..." Someone was hovering before us. His eyes were glowing red and his face was twisted in extreme hatred. He had a small group of soldier all wearing odd helmets

"We've been looking for you. Now you're going to get what you deserve." a box was hovering around his head. A small picture of a man appeared.

"Remember don't kill him! We need him!"

"Yeah, yeah. I hear you Godfrey but first it's payback time."

 

[Blacklight]

It had been hours since the Batman had helped to quash all the rioting that had been taking place outside the Gotham City opera house, and before he decided to put on a cowl to help defend Gotham, at this time of night, he'd usually be sleeping. But being nocturnal was something the mantle of the Bat required, so here he was, perched atop a gargoyle ominously, keeping an eye out for any signs of trouble. Like a watchful protector...

That was, until he smirked, knowing that a certain someone managed to get the drop on him. So why he was smiling? Because he knew of only one person who could do that unnoticed:

Batman.

"Was wondering what took you so long to come back to the land of the living..." Batman snickered as he turned to the see the real deal looking back at him, eyes narrowed as usual.

"So it's true. You really are back..."

 

[Byrd Man]

It had been hours since the Batman had helped to quash all the rioting that had been taking place outside the Gotham City opera house, and before he decided to put on a cowl to help defend Gotham, at this time of night, he'd usually be sleeping. But being nocturnal was something the mantle of the Bat required, so here he was, perched atop a gargoyle ominously, keeping an eye out for any signs of trouble. Like a watchful protector...

That was, until he smirked, knowing that a certain someone managed to get the drop on him. So why he was smiling? Because he knew of only one person who could do that unnoticed:

Batman.

"Was wondering what took you so long to come back to the land of the living..." Batman snickered as he turned to the see the real deal looking back at him, eyes narrowed as usual.

"So it's true. You really are back..."

The morning is slowly slipping away. Only a few more hours until sunrise and I still have more stops to make. The sooner I take care of another imposter, the sooner I'm off to my next stop.

"I am back. And I don't approve of you wearing what is mine. This will be your first and only warning. If I ever catch you out here again, wearing that costume, my retribution will be swift and ruthless."

 

[Blacklight]

The morning is slowly slipping away. Only a few more hours until sunrise and I still have more stops to make. The sooner I take care of another imposter, the sooner I'm off to my next stop.

"I am back. And I don't approve of you wearing what is mine. This will be your first and only warning. If I ever catch you out here again, wearing that costume, my retribution will be swift and ruthless."

"I can't help but feel like I'm not the only you've used that line on tonight..." Batman continued to joke, to which the real Batman scowled.

Looking to see that Batman was as grumpy as usual, the man could only smile.

Yep... It's Bruce alright.

"In any case, that's fine by me. Don't need this suit anymore now that you're back in town. Not that it wasn't fun while it lasted... I mean, all those times I used to do impressions of you behind your back. Now I finally had the chance to put 'em to good use."

Still scowling, Batman still looked at him through narrowed lenses.

Some things never change...

"Jeez, Bruce. Would it kill you to lighten up once in a while?"

 

[Byrd Man]

"I can't help but feel like I'm not the only you've used that line on tonight..." Batman continued to joke, to which the real Batman scowled.

Looking to see that Batman was as grumpy as usual, the man could only smile.

Yep... It's Bruce alright.

"In any case, that's fine by me. Don't need this suit anymore now that you're back in town. Not that it wasn't fun while it lasted... I mean, all those times I used to do impressions of you behind your back. Now I finally had the chance to put 'em to good use."

Still scowling, Batman still looked at him through narrowed lenses.

Some things never change...

"Jeez, Bruce. Would it kill you to lighten up once in a while?"

He drops clues to his real identity. It's obvious he's an ally or an old friend.

"Take off your mask and show me your face, then we'll see if lighten up."

 

[Blacklight]

He drops clues to his real identity. It's obvious he's an ally or an old friend.

"Take off your mask and show me your face, then we'll see if lighten up."

"...and here I am thinking you're the World's Greatest Detective. Fine. It's going off. Hate it anyways. Bats aren't really my thing..."

Removing his cowl, the Batman looked as the imposter had on yet another mask underneath. One that was blue in color, and sporting yellow lenses.

Spoiler

"...I personally prefer bugs."

 

[Byrd Man]

"Ted..."

Before all this, back before I died, I would have insulted Ted, told him to leave Gotham right away and leave this city to the professionals. After tonight's events, I've realized that's a path I don't want to continue down.

"Thank you for trying to keep the city under control in my absence. I appreciate it."

I hold out my hand and Ted looks at me like I may be a leper.

"I mean it."

He grudgingly shakes my hand, warming to my grip before he finally smiles.

 

[Blacklight]

"Ted..."

Before all this, back before I died, I would have insulted Ted, told him to leave Gotham right away and leave this city to the professionals. After tonight's events, I've realized that's a path I don't want to continue down.

"Thank you for trying to keep the city under control in my absence. I appreciate it."

I hold out my hand and Ted looks at me like I may be a leper.

Ted carefully eyed Batman as he held out his hand, trying to make sure there were no hidden cameras around or that when he shaked his hand he was going to get a punch to the face.

It must been a joke, he thought Has to be...

"Bwahaha! That's a good one, Bruce. I underestimated your sense of humor for a minute there. You really had me going..."

"I mean it."

He grudgingly shakes my hand, warming to my grip before he finally smiles.

Okay, so maybe he wasn't joking...

"You're welcome, Bruce. It was my pleasure. But..." Ted began, as his smile turned into a look of need.

"...I need to ask you a favor."

 

[Byrd Man]

"I'm listening, but please try and be brief. I have somewhere else I need to go before sunrise."

 

[Blacklight]

"I'm listening, but please try and be brief. I have somewhere else I need to go before sunrise."

"Listen... You weren't the only one who 'died' last year. I too was killed... In an explosion. It was the Calculator.

However, before I died, I handed the mantle of the Blue Beetle to a boy from El Paso by the name of Jaime Reyes. I sacrificed my life to make sure he didn't die with me in that explosion. He lived, but he dissappeared without a trace the night after it happened. Vanished of the face of the earth...

He's been gone for a whole year, and I need to find him. But I also need him to believe I'm still dead, and I can't do that as the Blue Beetle...

I need to wear this suit, one last time. Ted Kord needs to stay dead... No one can know I'm alive. Not even Mike. I need you to keep my secret. Can you do that for me, Bruce? I swear after I bring Jaime home, I'll hang up this cowl for good. Scout's honor." Tedfinished as he raised his hand.

 

[Byrd Man]

"For this rescue mission and only this mission will I accept it. If you don't stop, friend or not I will be forced to act."

I turn away from Ted, walking across the rooftop. I turn back just once and stare at him.

"Remember what I said. Good luck on your mission, and welcome back."

I leap off the side of the building and glide away into the early morning sky.

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

Arkham Asylum

Tonight is my last stop. Although it has only been a few hours since I left.

I walk through the corridors of the asylum. I can feel the eyes of the inmates all upon me. From out the corner of my eye I see Poison Ivy staring intently at me. Scarecrow yells some sort of jibberish and rattles the bars of his cell.

"You," a doctor says as she sees me walking through the halls.

"Where is he?"

"It...it might not be a good time for you to see him....I'm Dr. Young, his new physician."

I ignore her and keep walking. The guards give me room as I walk into the secure cell.

"You got a visitor."

"Oh, boy...I hope it's a conjugal visit!"

I sit down at the table across from him. Our eyes lock and cease to blink.

"I want to know, how does it feel to have your cake and eat it too?"
​

 

[wiegeabo]

The early rays of the morning creep into the house. From both bedrooms come the sounds of sleeping, and I soak those sounds in as I stand in the kitchen, mug in hand.

The faint yellow and red light suddenly takes on a pale green tint. And the green glow grows stronger and stronger. I enjoy another sip and patiently wait for his arrival. But I am surprised.

A trio of...what resemble Green Lanterns land in the backyard. They point their rings at the glass door, but I calmly slide it open. No need for Mary to deal with any damage. I'm not going to put up a fight.

"Sinestro of Korugar. You are under arrest and hereby summoned to stand trial before the Guardians of the Universe. Surrender your ring and prepare for immediate transport."

"Have any of you ever been to Earth before?" I ask nonchalantly. "They have this drink called coffee. Vile stuff. I prefer this...cocoa myself." I give them a nod as I take a long sip.

"Surrender your ring immediately or face the repercussions."

"I was just trying to make conversation while we wait. Where is Jordan?"

"Green Lantern 2184.1 is not required for transportation. Surrender your ring."

"I was planning to surrender to Jordan-"

They point their rings at me again, and I hear the distinct hum of charging energy. "No Lantern escapes the Alpha Lanterns."

"So, you're saying I am a Lantern?" I take another sip and smile. Despite their cold emotionless voices, I detect a note of annoyance. I enjoy the moment all that I can. If I'm going to be sentenced to death, I might as well have a little fun before the end. And I should be allowed the dignity of choosing who I surrender to. "I am not trying to escape. I am just waiting-"

"Surrender. You will receive no more warnings."

"I will surrender. To Hal Jordan. And only Hal Jordan."

"Subject resists. Prepare for extermination."

Ah, so Lantern policies have changed a little more than I expected. This is not going well...

 

[Blacklight]

"For this rescue mission and only this mission will I accept it. If you don't stop, friend or not I will be forced to act."

I turn away from Ted, walking across the rooftop. I turn back just once and stare at him.

"Remember what I said. Good luck on your mission, and welcome back."

I leap off the side of the building and glide away into the early morning sky.

"Likewise, old friend..." Ted muttered to himself after Bruce had already made his depature.

"Now..." Ted started as he put the cowl back on over his Beetle mask.

"Just one last pitstop to make..." he said as he pulled out a small remote from his utility belt, pressing a small switch.

Moments later, an aviation vehicle of some sort was heading straight for the Blue Beetle's location. One that looked like a strange hybrid of Batman's "Batwing" and Ted Kord's trademark "Bug". Hopping into the cockpit and switching on a few triggers and pulling some levers, the aircraft, which Ted had previously named the "Bat-Bug", was ready to fly.

"Heh. Been waiting to test this thing out... Bat-Bug computer, input coordinates for Kord Enterprises HQ."

Coordinates downloaded.

"Chicago, here I come..."

 

[Keyser Soze]

"For this rescue mission and only this mission will I accept it. If you don't stop, friend or not I will be forced to act."

I turn away from Ted, walking across the rooftop. I turn back just once and stare at him.

"Remember what I said. Good luck on your mission, and welcome back."

I leap off the side of the building and glide away into the early morning sky.

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

Arkham Asylum

Tonight is my last stop. Although it has only been a few hours since I left.

I walk through the corridors of the asylum. I can feel the eyes of the inmates all upon me. From out the corner of my eye I see Poison Ivy staring intently at me. Scarecrow yells some sort of jibberish and rattles the bars of his cell.

"You," a doctor says as she sees me walking through the halls.

"Where is he?"

"It...it might not be a good time for you to see him....I'm Dr. Young, his new physician."

I ignore her and keep walking. The guards give me room as I walk into the secure cell.

"You got a visitor."

"Oh, boy...I hope it's a conjugal visit!"

I sit down at the table across from him. Our eyes lock and cease to blink.

"I want to know, how does it feel to have your cake and eat it too?"
​

The Joker was positively grinning from ear to ear as Batman sat down before him in his cell. He was just smiling like the cat that ate the cream now, wasn’t he? That’s because he was happy again, Batman was back and there was laughter in the air once more. He had finally been able to hand Batman his ultimate defeat by killing him. And yet, here he was, alive for the games to continue on endlessly. Oh yes, he was indeed getting to have his cake and eat it too.

“Oh, it feels... delightful.”

Clasping his spindly fingers in front of him, The Joker leaned forward, his forklike tongue poking at his upper lip.

“But quid pro quo, Batso, how does it feel knowing that I beat you, that I killed you, but it’s me you have to thank for bringing you back? And here you are, back from the dead. Can you remember the moment when you died, Batman? Was their a white light, were your parents waiting there for you? You were gone, and now you’re here, and the dance begins anew. I’ve told you before.... we’re destined to do this forever. Even death cannot stop us.”