Batgirl
06-06-2001, 01:16 PM
For all those new to the story, this is the start:
Part 1
A pretty, young woman opened a cabinet door and placed three folded robes inside. She tossed back her blond hair and sighed. Why did I ever get myself into this, I already have all the information I could possibly need... her thoughts were interrupted by the arrival of an old man. He resembled the old man from The Karate Kid. His name was Yon Ti and he was in charge of The China Town Martial Arts Academy. He smiled warmly at her.
"Good evening Mr. Ti" the woman replied sincerely. He nodded. A man that says little... like someone else I know the thought caused her to giggle. He turned and gave her a strange look. He was wary of his new employee and was strict.
"Time to close. Take care Maggie. And do not come to work in your... 'true' outfit again or you will find another job" he said harshly. She nodded.
"Ok. See you tomorrow" She scowled as her closed the door and added in a mocking tone, "And do not come to work in your true outfit again or you will find another job! Like this is a real job? All I do is watch and clean up. I hate playing janitor" she muttered rebelliously. She looked down at her black robe and giggled. A lot of people wondered why she wore a white belt when she was really a black belt. She had always told them that something had to be white. She checked herself in the mirror. Her light tan complimented her blue eyes nicely. "Time to go home... Finally, I thought it'd never come!"
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At home things were a different story. She put on a white paste and black eye and lip make up and changed into her 'true' clothes. Black leather pants, a white tank top, complete with black leather jacket and she was good to go. She headed to a club where she decided to hang out for a while. It was around five thirty at night and she had a meeting at seven. She sat at a table and chatted with a coworker. She was rather bored when she overheard a comment from another table.
"Yea..." the man laughed, "they say he'll give big bucks to the person who can pull the heist and not get caught. The loser's almost gotta beg to stay outta-"
"Hey Maggie, what time was that meeting?" her friend asked. Maggie glanced at her watch and yelped in surprise. She had twenty minutes to get ready and she just couldn't show up like this.
"Thanks Mattie, you're a dear. Gotta go, see you tomorrow!" Maggie smiled weakly as her friend laughed. She was always late for something it seemed. Maggie rushed out the door.
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Three hours later...
"I'll see you tomorrow bright and early... And please try to be on time!" Jim Gordon teased. His daughter was just leaving. Barbara giggled.
"Dad," she teased back, "You know I'll be on time. I'm never late"
"Sure. Whatever" Rene muttered walking by her friend. Barbara smiled at her as she grabbed her keys. She briefly pondered if she would be needed later that night. It had dawned on her that since had taken up her cowl she rarely had a dull night... or day for that matter.
"See you tomorrow Barbara" Harvey called over a doughnut.
"Be careful! Don't drive too fast!" Rene chimed in. She sighed. It seemed her friends at the PD loved to tease her any chance they got, which was often since she worked there almost every day.
"Yea, yea, I know, I know. We go through this every night. Well, I got everything, see you all tomorrow. Bye Daddy" she called as she exited the front doors. It was a chilly Mid-October night and a cool wind blew. A chill ran down her back. Something's gonna happen tonight, I can feel it she thought nervously. She went to her car and threw her things into the back. As she went to open her door, something moved behind her. She spun around and saw a small black cat run off into the night. Isis? She shook it off gently, reassuring herself that it was only her imagination.
Her engine let out a gentle purr as it started and she backed up. A long day of work was over... or was it just beginning? Being a dark knight had strange hours, so she never knew which it was. She noticed that everything was now either closed or in the processing of closing and Gotham was rather quiet. Maybe I'll get some rest after all she thought with a smile. She wondered at that moment what Tim was up to. Possibly studying for a test, doing homework, or training. Maybe he was already out and about with Bruce. Alfred was probably doing some chore around the manor and Dick... Well, he was probably enjoying his date with Lisa. Barbara let out an intense growl. The thought of Lisa made Barbara scowl. Lisa and she had been rivals in high school and competed for everything. Guys, grades, you name it, they fought for it. She remembered what Rene had said to her earlier that morning, when she first got the news that Lisa and Dick were dating. "You know how cute you are when your jealous? Your eyes narrow and you look ready to beat up Batman. It's really funny" Barbara didn't think it was funny at all. Then she tried to cover by saying that she and Dick were just friends and there wasn't anything between them and that there never would be. This caused laughter from her father, Rene and Harvey. Her anger slowly increased.
"I can't believe he's actually going out with her," she muttered to no one in particular, "she's such a ditz. All that laughing, what an air head! And he's even more stupid for going out with her!" She slammed the wheel in anger and then regained her composure. "At least no one's here to see me..."
No, she wouldn't say it. She wouldn't, no, couldn't admit that she was jealous. That would mean she would have to admit she still was interested in Dick, and that she couldn't do. At least not right now. She stopped at a red light. "I'll ask him how it went later... hmm, almost home. Maybe I can crawl into bed and get some rest"
The light turned green. She sighed wearily and started across. The streets were empty, no one was out. On an average night, she would have been fine. But not tonight...
ERRRRRRRRRRR... Barbara hit her brakes as a car appeared out of nowhere. She desperately tried to stop or swerve, but nothing worked. A black car slammed into the passenger side of her car. Barbara screamed in terror and shut her eyes. Her car rolled over and skidded, sparks flying everywhere. Then it slammed into a light post and finally a wall and stopped, overturned. The driver of the other car got out and stared. He wondered if the person was all right, but he didn't stick around to find out. He got back in his car and sped away.
"What's going on out here? Oh my-!" a middle aged man came out from sweeping his shop, broom still in hand. He froze when he saw the overturned car. It took him a minute process what was happening and then rushed inside and called 911.
"Hello emergency? I'm reporting an accident. I'm on fifth and Maple. Get here quick, the car's overturned and it looks real bad" he stuttered out, glancing out the window. The operator dispatched a unit and talked to the man.
"Do you know who the driver is sir?"
"No. No, I don' t, but they're in trouble... please"
"Can you tell me how many people are in it?" she asked. The man rushed out and cautiously approached the car. He saw a young woman inside and gasped. It took only a moment to see who it was.
"I know her! It's Jim's daughter!" he cried in shock. He could tell that Barbara had been badly cut and bruised. He was unsure of what other injuries she could have.
"Jim? Jim, who?" the operator asked curiously. She figured she could at least notify the family now. She grabbed a pen to take down the name.
"Jim Gordon. Please hurry, it looks like she's hurt pretty bad..." his voice trailed off. The operator let out a small gasp. Barbara? Barbara Gordon? The operator had always heard how close the commissioner and his daughter were, if this was her...
"Help is on the way. Will you be all right sir? I have to notify the commissioner"
"Yea, I think I'll be ok, I hear 'em coming" he replied. The operator took down a few more facts and then got off the line. Sirens sounded in the distance and came closer. He leaned down and spoke in a soothing voice.
"It's ok Miss Gordon, helps on the way. You're gonna be all right..." The sirens were blaring now and an ambulance pulled onto the scene. Inside the car, Barbara moaned and slipped into darkness.
Part 2
Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep. The sound of the heart monitor seemed to echo in the hospital room. A young woman lay in an almost unnatural sleep breathing softly. She stirred softly. Beep, beep, beep. The sound seemed to pierce through her skull. Beep, beep, beep...
"Grr, that's enough!" She snarled, pulling the small wires off her. The machine let out a hideous blaring noise, much worse then the infernal beeping. The woman cried out softly and pressed her hands to her ears. "STOP IT!"
Barbara laid back and closed her eyes. The sound of the alarm was even worse. She tried to drown it out but it seemed to get louder. She remained motionless.
"This way! Hurry Doctor!" A middle aged woman cried in a panic-stricken voice, racing into the room followed by a man in his fifties. They surveyed the situation.
"Get the panels" The doctor commanded. Barbara heard the nurse scurry around and wondered what she was doing.
"Ready doctor" The nurse said. "Stand clear." Stand clear? Oh no... The next moment Barbara felt a surge of energy rush through her body. She was in too much shock to move let alone say something. The machine screamed on. "Second attempt, Stand clear."
Another wave of electricity shot through her body. This time Barbara recovered from the shock and let out a loud shriek. The nurse pulled back and the doctor stared at the young woman in a bewildered shock.
"Are you nuts?!?!?! I'm ALIVE! What are you trying to do?! Kill me?!" She roared. The nurse's mouth dropped open and the doctor was trying to stutter out something that resembled an apology. Finally the doctor said the only thing he could think of.
"You're not going to tell your father about this are you?"
"IS THAT ALL YOU CAN THINK OF AT THIS MINUTE!?!?!?! GET OUT!!! NOW!" Barbara roared, in an almost hysteric tone. She almost went through the roof. Both the doctor and nurse scurried out muttering numerous apologies. It was at that moment she wondered what the other people on the floor thought of her yelling. She sighed and leaned back. At least the machine has been shut off ... for now any way. When doctor came back she'd probably have to listen to that wretched beeping again. A couple minutes passed before she heard a familiar voice in the hallway.
"I'm looking for my daughter... Barbara Gordon?" A voice asked calmly, although it was full of concern. Someone gave him the number and he thanked them. A few seconds later he was standing at her door. His features took on an expression of mild relief.
"Hi Daddy..." She muttered softly. She suddenly wanted to cry. She hated it when her father worried about her. She was thankful he didn't know about her 'other' job.
"I'm so glad your alright. I almost had a heartattack when they called me at the office" The commissioner replied softly. He wrapped his daughter up in a warm hugged.
"Don't say that! You'll worry me!" Barbara said quickly. She didn't like it when her father talked about sickness and death, especially if it had to do with him. Her father sighed.
"I'm so glad your alright..." His voice trailed off. Barbara knew that she was his only real family left, if anything ever happened to her ... she didn't want to think of the damage it could do. She decided to focus on the loving embrace her father had wrapped her up in. In a way, she felt comforted. Just like when I was a little girl, she thought, he'd always wrap me up in a warm hug and tell me that everything would be ok. She giggled inwardly. Just like old times...
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Rene shuffled a few papers nervously. Besides worrying about her friend, Jim had left her in charge of the meeting with the Bat. It wasn't that she was nervous about the meeting, she liked working with Batman and his crew, she just couldn't get over that Barbara was in the hospital.
"Are we interrupting anything?" A deep voice asked softly. Rene started and spun around. Two sets of glowing eyes peered through the darkness at her, one figure much shorter then the other. She grinned.
"Not at all. Long time no see Batman" She replied casually. "Nice to see you brought your friend along" She motioned towards Robin. She could see the proud grin form on his face. The duo came forward into the light. Batman looked around slightly bewildered.
"I hope you don't take offense, but where's Jim? He said we needed to talk" He asked. Rene detected concern in his voice. She hesitated.
"He's at the hospital-" She started.
"What?! Why?! What happened?" Batman asked, now quite concerned. "Is he ok?"
"Yea, he's fine. It's Barbara I'm worried about," Rene explained. Robin's eyes got wide. "She was in an accident tonight. A hit and run. The car's totaled, and I think she's been roughed up a little, I'm not sure. He went to check on her."
"I see" His voice rumbled softly. Robin looked up at him and he nodded. Then he silently stole into the shadows. Batman took a deep breath and went on. "I suppose we should continue. It appears Selena's back in town. There's a jewel called the Leopard's Eye at the museum. I have a feeling she's interested in it..." As he went on Robin slipped back beside him. As she listened, Rene wondered how they always managed to slip in and out so easily.
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"I really enjoyed tonight. Call me" Lisa Parks said sweetly.
"Yea, I enjoyed it to. I'll talk to you later" Dick replied casually.
"Good night Dick"
"Bye Lisa" Dick closed the car door and walked up to the door. He quickly got out his keys and unlocked the door. As he closed the door he listened to the car drive off. He sighed. What a night... I think I like Barbara more he thought as he threw his jacket onto a chair. He flopped down on the sofa and was about to flip the t.v. on when the phone rang. He moaned.
"Why can't Bruce let me be for one night?" He muttered monotonously. He got up and answered the phone, not disguising his irritation. "Hello?"
"Master Dick, I'm so glad I reached you!" A cold chill ran down his back. He knew this voice well, and it never sounded like this unless something was really wrong.
"Alfred?! What's wrong?"
"Oh, it's terrible! The most dreadful thing-"
"What is it? What happened?" Now Dick started to panic. Alfred never freaked out and he sounded pretty worried. He felt a pit in the bottom of his stomach.
"Dick, Barbara's been in an accident-" Dick felt his heart drop.
"What?" He asked weakly, "is she ok?"
"I don't know. She's at Gotham Memorial... " Dick didn't need to hear the rest. He dropped the phone and grabbed his keys. He threw on his jacket and hit the door. Moments later he was speeding down the streets of Gotham.
"Hello? Master Dick? Oh dear..."
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"I have to go Barbara. I'm long over due on a meeting" Jim leaned over and hugged his daughter. He hated to leave, but she seemed ok.
"I understand Daddy" She whispered. She smiled and added, "Say hello to Batman for me. And if Robin's there, to him too." Her father chuckled softly.
"I'll see you in the morning" Commissioner Gordon called out as he left. Barbara leaned back and sighed. She hoped he didn't worry too much. She let out a small groan. Now what? She wondered.
"I am soooo bored!" she complained outloud to no one in perticular. She wished she had someone to talk to. A small knock on her door brought her back to reality. "Come in"
"I hope you don't make a habit of talking to yourself, people might think your crazy" A voice teased. Barbara's eyes flew open. She didn't even have to open her eyes to know who it was.
"Dick!" She cried out happily. "What are you doing here!"
"I could ask you the same thing" He shot back playfully. She giggled. He knew how to make her feel better. She threw her arms around his neck and he hugged her gently. He softly whispered, "You know, there are better ways to get my attention then to land in the hospital."
"Dick..." she muttered softly. She felt tears welling up. He sat down on the bed and held her close. "Thanks for coming, it means a lot..."
"What kind of friend would I be if I didn't show?" He asked, gently stroking her hair back. She smiled warmly to answer his question. She looked up into his sparkling blue eyes. He leaned down...
"Excuse me? Ms. Gordon? I'm afraid... I'm afraid I have to hook you back up to the machine" The doctor said timidly. He was standing at the door. Dick turned in shock and Barbara blushed deeply. "I hope I didn't interupt anything."
"No, not at all" She replied, her voice dripping with sarcasm. She leaned back and let out a loud, irritated side. Dick looked uncomfortable and looked at the ground. He looked at Barbara questioningly as the doctor fiddled with the machine. She looked at the doctor and then whispered, "When I regained consciousness I pulled the wires out. I guess I looked like I died cuz they used the shock treatment on me... Twice."
"WHAT?!" The doctor turned at the sudden exclamation. Dick had a look of horror on his face, quickly replaced by anger. The doctor turned around, prefering not to look at the angry young man, who in his opinion, could snap him in two. She giggled. Dick scowled darkly at the man. The doctor approached Barbara cautiously. He eyed her companion and gulped. Barbara smiled at the doctor.
"Don't worry, he doesn't bite..." Barbara said quickly, trying to contain her laughter. Dick dropped his jaw slightly and let out a loud, intimidating growl.
"Most of the time" She added with a huge grin. The doctor quickly attached the wires and backed up a few steps. He looked at his watch.
"Well, I'm afraid I have a meeting to go to" He started. Dick continued to scowl at the doctor menacingly. "I'll check on you later. Have a nice night."
The doctor scampered out of the room hastily. Barbara burst out roaring with laughter. Dick's scowl melted into a mischievous smile. Soon he was laughing too. It took about ten minutes for them to settle down. Then there was an awkward silence. Dick looked at the ground and Barbara looked out the window. Finally Dick got up the nerve to speak.
"Barbara?"
"Yea?"
"Maybe I don't always show it but I... I really-"
"Barbara are you ok?!" Tim almost flew into the room he was running so fast. Again they turned in surprize. Tim was pantining by now, he had run up about ten flights and was ready to drop. He sprinted weakly to the bedside. Dick got up and walked to the window. He stared out into the black depths of the cloudly night.
"Yea. I'm ok" She replied warmly. She leaned over and recieved a somewhat gentle bear hug from her 'brother'. Heavy footsteps sounded in the hall and in a few moments Bruce was at the door with Alfred tagging behind.
"Barbara! Thank heavens your alright!" Alfred said gently. He spoke for both him and Bruce. Both came over and hugged her. It almost resembled a small family reunion. By now Dick had gotten his jacket and looked like he was ready to bolt. Barbara looked at the floor a minute. Never did stay long when Bruce showed up. Heh, not much has changed she thought unhappily. She let out a small involuntary sigh. When she looked up, Dick was staring at her. He hesitated, looked at Bruce and Tim, then threw his jacket back on the chair. He leaned back on the wall and crossed his arms over his chest. She smiled at him and then turned her attention back to her newest visitors. Dick let a half smile slide across his face. Somehow he and Barbara knew what the other wanted.
"The doctor said I could go home in the morning" She informed them.
"Are they nuts? You look like you've been through World War two!" Tim yelped. Dick laughed dryly, causing Bruce to look his way with a somewhat 'whats-so funny?' look on his face.
"Yea, she feels like it too. They thought she was dead and zapped her..." Bruce's mouth dropped open and Alred's eyes widened. Tim just stared in shock. Dick finished with a matter-of fact, "Twice."
"You really didn't have to tell them that..." Barbara stuttered out, her cheeks turning a light rose. The three men turned to her, all too shocked to speak. She quickly covered. "It's ok now, he apologized."
Suddenly a smile formed on Tim's face and he started to laugh. Barbara and Alfred joined in and soon Bruce lightened up, he even smiled. Bruce stuck up a conversation with Barbara, Alfred was checking to make sure the place was clean, and Tim wandered over to the machines. They all made some kind of noise, whether it was a soft hum or a somewhat irritating beep. A bright orange button seemed to jump out of nowhere and caught his attention. The orange button came from the machine that was beeping and seemed to fasicnate him. He carefully stepped towards the machine to get a better look. An urge to push the button over came him. He checked himself, saying that it was childish to want to do so, but the button was saying, 'push me... push me...'
"Hey Barbara? Whats this do?" He asked curiously. He didn't notice how his hand levitated and was now inches away from the orange beacon. Barbara turned her attention from the conversation and her eyes widened in horror. She panicked.
"No Tim! Don't touch that!" Too late. His finger hit the button and the machine let out, for the third time that day, a horrid high pitch scream. Tim jumped about ten feet back, staring at it. Bruce and Alfred covered their ears, Dick rolled his eyes and let out a sigh, and Barbara put her face into her hands and let out a loud moan.
The doctor was at the door in a matter of seconds. It almost caught Dick off guard, but not quite. He quickly spun out his leg and turned. He landed bow legged, arms folded neatly across his chest and put on 'I don't think so' look. The doctor screeched to a halt inches in front of him and stared into the menacing eyes... for the second time that night, only this time much closer then he liked. The nurse appeared at the door seconds later. Dick dropped his jaw slightly but remained silent. This was all the doctor needed to see.
"Nurse, she's fine. Sorry to disturb you Ms. Gordon!" He cried. He spun around and sped out of the room. He grabbed the nurses wrist causing her to turn a three sixty before she was yanked out of the room. Dick smiled and leaned back against the wall again. Finally Tim got the nerve to hit the button again. The machine stopped screaming and went back to it's normal beep. Barbara looked up and directly at Tim. She had on her face one of the most menacing scowls he'd ever seen.
"You. Are. Soooo dead" She muttered venomously. Tim went pale a moment, then a look of fear and embarassment crossed his face.
"Opps" He said weakly. He had a goofy look on his face which caused Barbara's scowl to lighten and then disappear. Dick started to laugh and Barbara joined in. Bruce was smiling and shook his head in disbelief. Alfred let out an entertained chuckle. Then an innocent smile crossed Tim's face and he laughed at his mistake. It took about ten minutes to get over the ordeal. They chatted for another hour and then the nurse came to the door. She looked at Dick and he smiled. She shook her head and muttered something about the doctor being delusional and how he could make such irrational judgments about such a nice young man. She shook her head.
"Visiting hours are over" The nurse stated plainly. "You'll have to go. I'd let you all stay but it's the rules." Alfred gave Barbara a hug and signaled Tim. He rushed over and threw his arms around Barbara's neck.
"See ya later Barbara" He whispered. Alfred handed him his jacket and they started out the door. Halfway into the hall, Tim turned and waved bye. Barbara smiled and waved back. Dick watched them go but remained in his corner. Then his attention turned to Bruce.
"I better go. There's no telling what kind of trouble he'll give Alfred if I'm not there. See you tomorrow" Bruce said as he hugged her good night. He turned and walked to the door. He looked at Dick and nodded. Dick nodded back and Bruce left. It was their way of saying good night. The nurse leaned on the door and cleared her throat. Dick looked at her innocently.
"What?"
"Don't give me what. You too Junior" The nurse tried to sound annoyed, but an amused smiled had crossed her face. She had to admire him. He seemed to be quite protective of the patient. He smiled michievously.
"Do I have too?" He asked, his voice in a mocking whine. The nurse chuckled. The boy was old enough to be her son.
"Do I have to get security?"
"Fine, have it your way. I'm going" He trotted over to the bedside. Barbara had stopped giggling and now was smiling. He wrapped her in another warm embrace. She wished silently for a minute that he could stay, but she knew he couldn't for a few reasons. One, the doctor wouldn't let him. Two, her father. Three, Bruce. And four, she'd never had the courage to ask him.
"I'm waiting" The nurse said, faking impatience. Dick sighed and Barbara pulled back. He looked at the nurse and back at Barbara. He quickly leaned down and kissed her on the lips.
"See you tomorrow Barbara" He called as he shot out the door. She was too stunned to respond. The nurse chuckled and turned out the lights.
"Good night Ms. Gordon" She said softly. She turned and left Barbara alone. Barbara leaned back and closed her eyes, smiling. That night had turned out pretty well, considering what happened and tomorrow she'd get to go home. She dozed off into a peaceful sleep.
Part 3/a
Barbara rolled over on the couch for the millionth time that day. She was really bored. That morning her dad had picked her up around nine thirty and brought her home from the hospital. It was now nine thirty at night. She flipped through the channels another ten times. She groaned loudly. I'd advise you to stay off your feet. At least for the next twelve hours. That's what the doctor had said. Then he added and take it easy for the next week or so. She grunted softly.
"I don't have time to stay off my feet!" she muttered bitterly. "At least not for a week!" She knew that if the guys found out what the doctor said she wouldn't get out for the next month or so. She guessed they already knew. She let out an irritated sigh. "Why is it every time I actually have the chance to watch late night t.v. there's nothing good on! Ahhhhhhh!"
She flipped off the t.v. and threw her remote across the room. Great. Now I have to go get it she thought, now more irritated then ever. She sighed. Now what? She scanned the room. Her eyes landed on the phone. She grinned.
"Hmmm. I wonder what Tim's up to? Only one way to find out" She got up and walked over to the phone. She hit speed dial and waited patiently.
"Hello?" an older man's voice answered. Barbara smiled.
"Hey Alfred"
"Hello Barbara, how are you?" he replied happily.
"Really good, just a bad case of boredom. Should I tell you what the doctor said or do you know already?"
"I already know. Master Bruce talked to your father earlier." Barbara gave an inward groan and snapped her fingers.
"Great. Does this mean he's not gonna let me go out?"
"I believe you know the answer to that." She groaned openly now. "It's only for your own good. He doesn't want you getting hurt."
"Yea, yea. I know" She sighed. There goes my nights...
"As much as I enjoy talking to you, I don't think that's the reason you called. Who would you like to talk to?"
"Is Tim there?"
"Just a moment Barbara. I'll get him"
"Thanks Alfred" A few seconds later Tim's voice came over the line.
"Hey Barbara"
"Hi Tim"
"So, how's house arrest?"
"That's not funny. I honestly feel like I'm under house arrest. And now I know I don't have a chance of getting out"
"Bummer"
"Your tellin' me?"
"Sure" That got Barbara to giggle. It was good to hear her so chipper. "I bet your glad to be outta that hospital. That doctor was really weird!"
"No he wasn't"
"You gotta be kiddin' me. That guy was so jumpy I thought he'd go through the roof!" Barbara laughed harder. This meant there was something she wasn't telling him and he wanted to know. "What's so funny?"
"That can be explained"
"Oh really?" Sarcasm and intrigue dripped off the words. "Then would you mind explaining? I'd love to know the joke"
"Umm.... I don't know" she stopped laughing and now almost sounded nervous.
"Oh come on Barbara! Tell me! I bet it's really good!" It had to be or she wouldn't be hesitating like this.
"Well..."
"Just spit it out!" he practically yelled.
"Ok, ok. I'll tell you"
"Yes!"
"But don't tell Dick"
"Why?"
"You know how he gets when-" She stopped cold. "Never mind. So what's new?"
"Chicken"
"Am not!"
"Then tell me! I won't tell!" Tim crossed his fingers, that way he could get out of it if it was good. Barbara sighed. He was persistent and she was giving in.
"I dunno..."
"Please"
"Fine. I'll tell you. You know how intimidating he can look when he wants to terrify some poor guy, right?"
"Yea..." Tim smiled. He could tell this was good so he kept his fingers crossed.
"Well, when I told him about getting zapped the doctor was reconnecting me to the machine" She started to giggle.
"Uh oh" Tim giggled.
"He gave the doctor this really menacing scowl. It was great. He looked ready to snap the poor doc in two"
"I bet he wanted to" Tim muttered under his breath.
"What?" Barbara inquired. "I didn't hear you"
"Um, nothing" He covered quickly. Barbara raised her eye brow. "Go on"
"So I smiled at the doctor and told him that Dick didn't bite" Tim giggled again. "That's when Dick growled at him"
"He did WHAT?!?!" Now Barbara was giggling.
"He growled at him"
"No way!"
"Way. Not only that but he dropped his jaw so his teeth were showing!" Barbara cracked up remembering the scene. Tim was in hysterics just thinking about it. "So I mildly added, most of the time"
"Oh man! The poor doctor!"
"Yea, I know"
"The nurse thought he was funny"
"Yea I know. She thought it was cute when he kissed me good night" Barbara slipped out. She panicked, realizing what she just said.
"He'll never live it down!" Tim was roaring with laughter. Barbara gulped.
"Tim, you can't!" She said quickly. Her tone was desperate and regretful.
"Why?"
"He'd... well... You just can't. Please Tim" She begged. Tim looked down at his crossed fingers and thought a moment.
"Ok I won't" He said flatly.
"Promise?"
"Yea, yea. I promise"
"Thanks" She smiled, silently hoping that he won't tell. She knew her 'little brother' and she was already regretting this. She knew she shouldn't have told him, but she did. Now she had to pay the consequences. Please don't tell Dick, please... A muffled voice talked to Tim in the background. It sounded like Alfred, but she couldn't understand what was being said.
"Hey Barbara? I have to... do homework"
"Oh?" Now it was her time to inquire.
"Yea, there's some math problems I've been having trouble with and-"
"You mean the signal's up and you have to go" She cut him off.
"Yea... how'd you know?" He sounded puzzled.
"Been there, done that" She was being flippant. Tim smiled mischievously.
"Any way, Dick's here to help out" She paled. "Gotta go"
"Tim-" Click. Barbara scowled at the phone. He was toast. She was kicking herself for telling him about what happened. Dick always acted weird when it came to his feelings. Especially when it came to her. Sometimes he reminded her of Bruce, but he wasn't that bad, not yet any ways. She let out a loud sigh.
"Might as well see what's going down. There's nothing better to do" She muttered. She got up and quickly retrieved the remote. She looked around and grabbed her keys. Pity the car's in the shop. Guess I'll just have to use another mode of transportation... She smiled mischievously. They were gonna kill her. She shrugged and headed out.
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Dick was in the Batcave and Bruce was suiting up when Alfred returned. He had a plate full of chocolate chip cookies, napkins and three full glasses of milk. He smiled warmly at Dick, who returned it.
"Good evening Master Dick"
"Hey Alfred. Where's Tim?"
"He's coming. He just got off the phone with Barbara" Dick raised an eyebrow. Alfred just smiled at him. He wondered a moment what he was smiling about. Around ten seconds later Robin burst into the cave at a high speed. He bolted down the steps and into the training room.
"Hi Dick"
"Hey Tim. What's new?" A huge, wicked grin spread across Tim's face. "Why do I have the feeling I shouldn't have asked that?"
"Did you really kiss Barbara last night?" An expression of shock crossed his face.
"How'd you-?"
"Take a guess" Tim teased.
"Barbara"
"How did you get that so quick?"
"It's your turn to guess"
"Alfred"
"Very good. Your getting smarter all the time"
"So did you really kiss her?"
"Maybe"
"I think it's cute"
"What's cute?"
"That you think Barbara's hot"
"Shut up Tim"
"She also told me why the doctor was so jumpy"
"Your kiddin' me"
"Nope"
"Aw sh-"
"It must have been sooooooo cute! Sticking up for your girlfriend like that" Tim heard Bruce talking to Alfred. He planned his exit.
"SHUT UP TIM! She's NOT my girlfriend!" Dick thundered angrily. Tim heard Alfred tell Bruce he'd get Robin. He let a cocky, mischievous grin slide across his face. He smiled, knowing how to get in the last word.
"Don't deny it. You like her" Tim heard Bruce call his name. He turned and walked out. Dick was fuming.
"The little brat..."
"Hey Nightwing? Are you coming or what?" Batman yelled impatiently. Dick growled and walked up to the computer where Batman was. He surveyed the situation and sighed. Catwoman was on the prowl, the Riddler was out of the rehab center, and Professor Crane was being release from Arkym. He wondered what the plans were for the night.
"So far no one has pulled anything, but we should be on the look out. I'm not worried about Edward or Johnathan, but-"
"Selina is another story" Dick finished. Bruce looked up at him and actaully smiled. This was one of the rare moments when Bruce showed his emotions. And this one was of pride. Dick smiled back at him, for once.
"Do you think she'll-" Dick stopped dead in the middle of his sentence. Another bike had just entered the cave. Bruce was on his feet and Dick spun around. He knew the sound of that bike. "It can't be..."
Tim peeked out from the inside of the Batmobile. His jaw dropped. Barbara slowed the Batcycle and then it came to a halt. She jumped off it and put the kickstand down. Dick and Bruce were down the stairs in a flash. She smiled as they screeched to halt several yards in front of her. She pulled off her helmet and gently placed it on the seat after jumping off the bike. She walked up to them and smiled.
"Hi guys. Ya miss me?" She chirped happily. It felt good to move around again. Her smile faded as Batman and Nightwing stared silently. She frowned slightly. "Now what'd I do?"
The annoyance in her voice was evident but still everyone remained silent. By now Tim's jaw had hit the floor. Alfred had also come downstairs and froze in place when he saw the visitor.
"Oh dear" He muttered. It didn't surprize him that Barbara had come. He knew that she'd feel pinned up and eventually she'd need to get out. He had hoped it wouldn't be so soon. He looked at Bruce and Dick and then quietly moved into the shadows. Luckily no one had seemed to notice his presence. A few moments later chaos erupted.
"Barbara are you nuts?!"
"What are you doing here?!"
"Hey, did your bike get a new paint job?" Dick glared at Tim, who grinned impishly and shrank into the Batmobile. She smiled warmly at Tim, who returned it. She turned to her friends.
"Dick you know I'm not crazy and Bruce, what do you think I'm doing here?! I wanna help" Dick looked at Bruce, who had turned to look at him. It was almost comical. Then both looked back at her, took a deep breath and let out a long sigh.
Like father, like son she thought humorously. It was at times like this that Barbara could see how much Dick had become like Bruce. No matter how often he said that they were nothing alike. She hesitantly went on.
"Grant it, I probably shouldn't suit up. I mean, going out after what happened would probably be really dumb-"
"Uh, yea" Barbara shot a glare at Dick, who now had a mild scowl on his face and had crossed his arms over his chest.
"But there's nothing wrong with hanging out here. You know, behind the scene type of stuff. I can work on the computer or fix my bike or-"
"Go home and rest" Dick added. Barbara scowled at him. He shot a sarcastic smile at her. Bruce watched the two interact. It was almost like the old days. A smile briefly crossed his face as he remembered the brief flirtations between Robin and Batgirl. They were so perfect for each other, yet they didn't take any notice. That or they didn't want to. He shook his head and dismissed the thought.
"You need to rest. Alfred will take you home. If we need you, we'll call. Until then, stay put. Got it?" Batman said sternly. He had that 'don't-argue-with-me' look. She opened her mouth to protest but seeing she couldn't win, closed it. She put on a look that resembled both a scowl and a pout. She turned her back to the two men. Bruce turned to Dick. "We'll meet you at the museum. Make sure she gets home"
"No problem" Batman walked past Barbara and got into the Batmobile. She stuck out her tongue at him. The hatch closed and the car sped into the night. Barbara scowled. This is *so* not fair, he never lets me... She was brought back to the present by a hand on her shoulder. She spun around to face Dick. She could tell he was slightly angry, but she wasn't sure about what. His tone was cold. "You heard him. Go home"
"Thanks for sticking up for me" She snapped harshly. "And what's wrong with you? Why are you so mad?"
"Why do you think?!"
"I can't read your mind"
"Did you have to tell him?" He asked accusingly. A look of shock crossed her face. It was soon followed by a look of anger. The little brat! He promised! She quickly thought up a defense.
"So what's wrong with telling him?"
"Your not my girlfriend" A twinge of pain shot through Barbara. She knew that, but it hurt when he said it, especially the way he said it. It was cold and uncaring. Barbara felt tears starting to form and with the tears came old pain and anger.
"I'm aware of that fact thank you" She hissed venomously. A strange fire lit her eyes, one that he had never seen before. It surprised him. "I'm not a little girl"
"I know that"
"Then stop treating me like a child!"
"If you'd stop acting like a child I would!"
"You're so immature!"
"At least I"m not a puppet on a string" He snapped back. A small silence occurred. Both stared at the other, trying to calm down, knowing they couldn't.
"And what's that supposed to mean?" She inquired coldly. He took a deep breath before going on.
"You wanna know? Fine, I'll tell you.Before I struck out on my own, I couldn't do anything without Bruce's approval. I couldn't see friends because I had to train or I'd have to leave because the signal went up-"
"I know. You ditched out on me more times then I could count!"
"I did anything for him. I was a puppet on a string, I couldn't think for myself" He paused a moment to let it sink in. It wouldn't take her long to get it. Sure enough, her eyes widened in realization and her jaw dropped. "I thought I'd never make it on my own. He had the greater skill, he was stronger, HE had the name. I lived my live in his shadow. I was the sidekick. The one to be thrown around and laughed at. I did what he told me without any questions. I rarely used my own head. Finally I got tired of being a puppet and I broke my strings. I became Nightwing-"
"It certainly took you long enough didn't it?" She sneered, knowing what was next.
"But I"ve broken my strings. You haven't. You always do what he says, you never question it. If he says jump, you say, how high. You're a puppet" Dick snapped.
"No I'm not!"
“You lost your independence when you replaced me as the trusty sidekick”
“I am not a sidekick” Barbara retorted.
“Sure you are, and that’s why your mad. Because you know it. You’re nothing without him-”
"What?!" She cried in shock.
“You don’t have any skill-” He continued.
“No!”
“You’re weak. You wanna know the real reason why any one’s afraid of you?”
“Shut up Dick”
“It’s because where ever you are, he is. They’re not afraid of you, they’re afraid of him. *You’re* just a sidekick You couldn’t take down someone if you tried!”
“I could too!”
“Yea right,-sidekick” He hit his mark. Barbara’s eyes were wet, but she was determined not to cry. Her eyes narrowed at him.
“I HATE YOU!” She screamed. Dick went numb. She ran the palm of her hand across his right cheek. The slap cracked like a bull whip and let a painful sting on his face. She backed away, then turned and sprinted to her bike. Tears streamed down her her face. She jumped on her bike and put on her helmet. The words had cut both of them deeply. Dick was frozen with shock. Barbara started the bike. He’s wrong, I can do it on my own. I chose to work with him... He shook his head and started after her on foot. She pulled away just as he reached her. And somehow I’ll prove it...
“Barbara wait!” He called desperately. She hit the gas and let a trail of dust as she took off. He watched her tail lights fade into the darkness. Bruce was going to kill him. But there was something else...
“I‘m sorry” He whispered. He walked over to the wall and leaned his head up against it. He didn’t mean to say the things he did, or to hurt her. That’s the last thing he wanted to do, yet it always seemed to happen. He really wasn’t that mad about her telling Tim about what happened, he was just... scared. He was worried something would happen to her, so why couldn’t he just tell her that. “Stupid pride... You can come out now. She’s gone”
He turned towards the place where Alfred was hiding. Alfred came out with a shock on his face. Dick smiled. “I knew you were there, I just didn’t say anything. So, how long will it be until she speaks to me?”
“What do you mean Master Dick?” Dick scowled.
“Come on Alfred. I acted like a total jerk. I sounded off when I should’ve kept my mouth shut. Even I know that”
“One often says things they don’t mean when they’re angry” Dick turned towards his friend.
“So what do I do?” He asked quietly. Gone was the anger and pride. His eyes were troubled and a look of regret shown clearly on his face. He wasn’t Nightwing anymore, he was Dick Grayson, the real Dick Grayson. Not the one who felt like he had to prove his worthiness. With Alfred he could be himself, he didn’t have to prove anything. Alfred put a comforting hand on his shoulder of the young man he adopted as his grandson.
“I believe you already know the answer to that” He replied gently. Dick looked at him questioningly for a moment, then nodded in understanding.
“It won’t be easy” Dick muttered looking away.
“Admitting when one is wrong rarely is” Dick smiled. Somehow Alfred always knew what to say.
“Yea, I guess so”
“There’s something else, isn’t there?”
“There always is Alfred, there always is” Not wanting to go further and say what that ‘something else’ was, Dick made his way to his bike. He put on his helmet and mounted. The engines roared.
“I gotta go. I’ll apologize later, right now I have a job to do” Once again Alfred was talking to Nightwing. The shields were back up and Alfred knew it was useless to argue. Dick and Bruce were very similar in the that once their mind was made up, no one could change it. Dick hit the gas. Alfred watched him sped off into the night.
“You always did, Master Dick, you always do...”
************************************************
"Hey girl! How ya doin'?" Mattie chirped. Maggie was folding robes when Mattie came in. She looked up and smiled at her friend. She momentarily stopped folding.
"Mattie! Hey girl!" Maggie replied. Mattie hugged her.
"Look at you! You poor dear!" Mattie said, noting the various scratches and bruises. Maggie shrugged.
"I looked worse before" She said coolly.
"How did it happen?"
"Ah, I... Look, it's no biggie, don't worry"
"Maggie..." Mattie inquired. Suddenly Maggie looked away, shame written on her face. Mattie could tell something was up and went on. "Come on girl, you can tell me! Please Maggie"
"You'd hate me if I told you"
"I've heard the worst, trust me"
"I broke into a place last night. I needed money. I tried to loot it but the alarms went off and I ran for it. I fell down the fire escape stairs and lost all I got. I need money... please help me... My rent just went up, I can barely feed myself, the heater's broke- I'll freeze if it's not fixed! And the landlord says that if I don't pay the last three months rent now I won't have an apartment to go to! There's no place for me to go!"
"You poor thing... I wish I could help" Maggie gave Mattie a funny look.
"You can"
"How?"
"You know how"
"What do you mean?"
"Come on Mattie, we all know you got connections! Someone's gotta have a job to do... Mattie"
"How'd you-?! Maggie I can't"
"Mattie, I really really need the money... PLEASE" Mattie hesitated."MATTIE!"
"Well..."
"You still dating Lar?"
"Oh fine. I'll tell you.Rumor has it the Joke's broke... again. He's literally gotta beg to stay outta Arkhym"
"Again? He doesn't have any hair brain scam?"
"Nope. I think he's workin on one"
"Why do you say that?"
"He's... he's looking for somebody. He won't tell anyone about what, but he's looking. Does that help?"
"Yea. Now I need details"
"Huh?"
"Where can I find him?"
"He's in South Gotham. Since the Bat found his last place he had to move around. He's finally found one"
"Good, good. Go on"
"There's a place down there called Lima's. It used to be a thriving, high class restuarant. Then Thorne came to town. He started doing business near there. Slowly the high class snobs became low life thugs. Now the place is run down and abandoned. At least it was until a few months ago when the Joke found it. Now it's his place. I'm not giving the address, but I'll tell you this. They were famous for their trademark. It was a single red rose bud with a single leaf"
"That it?"
"Yea"
"Thanks hon"
"No prob"
"I gotta go Mattie"
"Hey Meg?"
"Yea?"
"Becareful. Remember this is the Joker your messing with"
"I will be and don't worry. I have connections. Your name will never come up"
"Thanks Meg" With that Maggie turned and hit the door. She probably wouldn't run into Mattie again. She felt kinda bad about that, it was too bad that such a nice girl had gotten tangled up with the wrong crowd. Maybe we will meet again... someday she thought. She jumped on her bike and turned it home. She had a lot of work to do before she met her new boss.
************************************************
Maggie pulled up to an old warehouse a couple blocks away from the PD. She parked her bike in the garage. She looked around and then snuck into the main building. Inside was a perfect apartment. There was a huge living quarters and observatory. The observatory was seperte from the rest of the living quarters. She flopped a black leather jacket on the bed and bit her lip. I gotta be nuts, if they find out... she shuddered. She hated conditioning, especially the type he gave. She tried to push the thought to the back of her mind. Well, they won't she decided, here goes nothing... The lady sighed and got out the items that would be needed.
A bottle of black hair dye that washed out in 24 washes, she won't have it any other way. A few miscellenious earrings, all of which were gold. A white make up paste, black eye shadow, lip liner, eye liner and nail polish... and to top it all off, black leather pants and a white tank top. At least I don't have to worry about my wardrob she thought with amusement. She began her "transformation".
She washed her hair golden blond hair, turning it into raven's wing. She smoothed the white paste onto her arms and face. She looked in the mirror and nodded approvingly. She looked pale and ghostly. It would give a bone chilling impression. Then she painted her nails. They grew longer with the dark color on them. She gently applied the eye and lip make up and smiled. Almost done...
She added the final touch. She clipped a gold earring onto her tongue, hoping she wouldn't swallow it. Then she hooked a gold hoop into her right nostril. She put two gold studs in her ears and attached a final gold stud to the top of her right ear. She hesitated, and then looked into the mirror again. Before her stood a total stranger. She touched her face to make sure it was really her.
"Perfect..." She gasped, "Absolulely perfect."
A smile crept across her face. Never in a million years would they be able to tell it was her. Ok Bats, let's see how good you really are... she challenged. She knew that if she really wanted to pull it off she'd need an attitude adjustment. That could take care of that easily. She slid into the leather pants and white tank top. The final touch to the clothing was the leather jacket. She walked out to the garage and hopped on her bike. It gave a gentle purr. The engines roared and the young woman sped into the night, heading towards the South side of Gotham. Lima's. Gotta remember that she thought. She knew how to get the job but wasn't sure how to handle the actual "mission". That will come later. Once I figure out what the mission is... Now, I need a name. What should I go by? She wondered. Hmm... Raven? No, too- birdish. Shadow? Maybe. Let's see, They call me shadow. Shadow of the Night... No. Absolutely not. It doesn't fit. Nocturna? No, it sounds too much like nocturnal, which might remind them of Bats... What can I go by? She passed various buildings on the way to her destination. Houses, warehouses, the PD, clubs. She stopped at a light outside the club that she and Mattie had visited a coulpe days ago. The Mirage. She bit her lip with frustration. What can I go- Suddenly, it hit her. A smile formed under the black helmet. It was perfect, absolutly perfect. As if agreeing, the light turned green. She put the petal to the metal and started on her way. Slowly all the "glamour" started to fade into a slum like state.
She knew that she had reached the south side. The bike slowed down. She rode around the deserted streets until she reached Milton's Parkway. The third building on the left had a single red rose bud with a leaf painted on it. She stopped the bike momentarily and observed the surroundings. Then she pulled the bike into the alley and hit it behind an accessable dumpster. If needed, she could make a quick exit. Then she crept around the building and found the back door. She took a deep breath and carefully slide into Lima's.
Ok, there's the first few... I'm really tired. School just got out and I've been studyinh nonstop. I'll post more soon.
Part 1
A pretty, young woman opened a cabinet door and placed three folded robes inside. She tossed back her blond hair and sighed. Why did I ever get myself into this, I already have all the information I could possibly need... her thoughts were interrupted by the arrival of an old man. He resembled the old man from The Karate Kid. His name was Yon Ti and he was in charge of The China Town Martial Arts Academy. He smiled warmly at her.
"Good evening Mr. Ti" the woman replied sincerely. He nodded. A man that says little... like someone else I know the thought caused her to giggle. He turned and gave her a strange look. He was wary of his new employee and was strict.
"Time to close. Take care Maggie. And do not come to work in your... 'true' outfit again or you will find another job" he said harshly. She nodded.
"Ok. See you tomorrow" She scowled as her closed the door and added in a mocking tone, "And do not come to work in your true outfit again or you will find another job! Like this is a real job? All I do is watch and clean up. I hate playing janitor" she muttered rebelliously. She looked down at her black robe and giggled. A lot of people wondered why she wore a white belt when she was really a black belt. She had always told them that something had to be white. She checked herself in the mirror. Her light tan complimented her blue eyes nicely. "Time to go home... Finally, I thought it'd never come!"
****************************************************
At home things were a different story. She put on a white paste and black eye and lip make up and changed into her 'true' clothes. Black leather pants, a white tank top, complete with black leather jacket and she was good to go. She headed to a club where she decided to hang out for a while. It was around five thirty at night and she had a meeting at seven. She sat at a table and chatted with a coworker. She was rather bored when she overheard a comment from another table.
"Yea..." the man laughed, "they say he'll give big bucks to the person who can pull the heist and not get caught. The loser's almost gotta beg to stay outta-"
"Hey Maggie, what time was that meeting?" her friend asked. Maggie glanced at her watch and yelped in surprise. She had twenty minutes to get ready and she just couldn't show up like this.
"Thanks Mattie, you're a dear. Gotta go, see you tomorrow!" Maggie smiled weakly as her friend laughed. She was always late for something it seemed. Maggie rushed out the door.
****************************************************
Three hours later...
"I'll see you tomorrow bright and early... And please try to be on time!" Jim Gordon teased. His daughter was just leaving. Barbara giggled.
"Dad," she teased back, "You know I'll be on time. I'm never late"
"Sure. Whatever" Rene muttered walking by her friend. Barbara smiled at her as she grabbed her keys. She briefly pondered if she would be needed later that night. It had dawned on her that since had taken up her cowl she rarely had a dull night... or day for that matter.
"See you tomorrow Barbara" Harvey called over a doughnut.
"Be careful! Don't drive too fast!" Rene chimed in. She sighed. It seemed her friends at the PD loved to tease her any chance they got, which was often since she worked there almost every day.
"Yea, yea, I know, I know. We go through this every night. Well, I got everything, see you all tomorrow. Bye Daddy" she called as she exited the front doors. It was a chilly Mid-October night and a cool wind blew. A chill ran down her back. Something's gonna happen tonight, I can feel it she thought nervously. She went to her car and threw her things into the back. As she went to open her door, something moved behind her. She spun around and saw a small black cat run off into the night. Isis? She shook it off gently, reassuring herself that it was only her imagination.
Her engine let out a gentle purr as it started and she backed up. A long day of work was over... or was it just beginning? Being a dark knight had strange hours, so she never knew which it was. She noticed that everything was now either closed or in the processing of closing and Gotham was rather quiet. Maybe I'll get some rest after all she thought with a smile. She wondered at that moment what Tim was up to. Possibly studying for a test, doing homework, or training. Maybe he was already out and about with Bruce. Alfred was probably doing some chore around the manor and Dick... Well, he was probably enjoying his date with Lisa. Barbara let out an intense growl. The thought of Lisa made Barbara scowl. Lisa and she had been rivals in high school and competed for everything. Guys, grades, you name it, they fought for it. She remembered what Rene had said to her earlier that morning, when she first got the news that Lisa and Dick were dating. "You know how cute you are when your jealous? Your eyes narrow and you look ready to beat up Batman. It's really funny" Barbara didn't think it was funny at all. Then she tried to cover by saying that she and Dick were just friends and there wasn't anything between them and that there never would be. This caused laughter from her father, Rene and Harvey. Her anger slowly increased.
"I can't believe he's actually going out with her," she muttered to no one in particular, "she's such a ditz. All that laughing, what an air head! And he's even more stupid for going out with her!" She slammed the wheel in anger and then regained her composure. "At least no one's here to see me..."
No, she wouldn't say it. She wouldn't, no, couldn't admit that she was jealous. That would mean she would have to admit she still was interested in Dick, and that she couldn't do. At least not right now. She stopped at a red light. "I'll ask him how it went later... hmm, almost home. Maybe I can crawl into bed and get some rest"
The light turned green. She sighed wearily and started across. The streets were empty, no one was out. On an average night, she would have been fine. But not tonight...
ERRRRRRRRRRR... Barbara hit her brakes as a car appeared out of nowhere. She desperately tried to stop or swerve, but nothing worked. A black car slammed into the passenger side of her car. Barbara screamed in terror and shut her eyes. Her car rolled over and skidded, sparks flying everywhere. Then it slammed into a light post and finally a wall and stopped, overturned. The driver of the other car got out and stared. He wondered if the person was all right, but he didn't stick around to find out. He got back in his car and sped away.
"What's going on out here? Oh my-!" a middle aged man came out from sweeping his shop, broom still in hand. He froze when he saw the overturned car. It took him a minute process what was happening and then rushed inside and called 911.
"Hello emergency? I'm reporting an accident. I'm on fifth and Maple. Get here quick, the car's overturned and it looks real bad" he stuttered out, glancing out the window. The operator dispatched a unit and talked to the man.
"Do you know who the driver is sir?"
"No. No, I don' t, but they're in trouble... please"
"Can you tell me how many people are in it?" she asked. The man rushed out and cautiously approached the car. He saw a young woman inside and gasped. It took only a moment to see who it was.
"I know her! It's Jim's daughter!" he cried in shock. He could tell that Barbara had been badly cut and bruised. He was unsure of what other injuries she could have.
"Jim? Jim, who?" the operator asked curiously. She figured she could at least notify the family now. She grabbed a pen to take down the name.
"Jim Gordon. Please hurry, it looks like she's hurt pretty bad..." his voice trailed off. The operator let out a small gasp. Barbara? Barbara Gordon? The operator had always heard how close the commissioner and his daughter were, if this was her...
"Help is on the way. Will you be all right sir? I have to notify the commissioner"
"Yea, I think I'll be ok, I hear 'em coming" he replied. The operator took down a few more facts and then got off the line. Sirens sounded in the distance and came closer. He leaned down and spoke in a soothing voice.
"It's ok Miss Gordon, helps on the way. You're gonna be all right..." The sirens were blaring now and an ambulance pulled onto the scene. Inside the car, Barbara moaned and slipped into darkness.
Part 2
Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep. The sound of the heart monitor seemed to echo in the hospital room. A young woman lay in an almost unnatural sleep breathing softly. She stirred softly. Beep, beep, beep. The sound seemed to pierce through her skull. Beep, beep, beep...
"Grr, that's enough!" She snarled, pulling the small wires off her. The machine let out a hideous blaring noise, much worse then the infernal beeping. The woman cried out softly and pressed her hands to her ears. "STOP IT!"
Barbara laid back and closed her eyes. The sound of the alarm was even worse. She tried to drown it out but it seemed to get louder. She remained motionless.
"This way! Hurry Doctor!" A middle aged woman cried in a panic-stricken voice, racing into the room followed by a man in his fifties. They surveyed the situation.
"Get the panels" The doctor commanded. Barbara heard the nurse scurry around and wondered what she was doing.
"Ready doctor" The nurse said. "Stand clear." Stand clear? Oh no... The next moment Barbara felt a surge of energy rush through her body. She was in too much shock to move let alone say something. The machine screamed on. "Second attempt, Stand clear."
Another wave of electricity shot through her body. This time Barbara recovered from the shock and let out a loud shriek. The nurse pulled back and the doctor stared at the young woman in a bewildered shock.
"Are you nuts?!?!?! I'm ALIVE! What are you trying to do?! Kill me?!" She roared. The nurse's mouth dropped open and the doctor was trying to stutter out something that resembled an apology. Finally the doctor said the only thing he could think of.
"You're not going to tell your father about this are you?"
"IS THAT ALL YOU CAN THINK OF AT THIS MINUTE!?!?!?! GET OUT!!! NOW!" Barbara roared, in an almost hysteric tone. She almost went through the roof. Both the doctor and nurse scurried out muttering numerous apologies. It was at that moment she wondered what the other people on the floor thought of her yelling. She sighed and leaned back. At least the machine has been shut off ... for now any way. When doctor came back she'd probably have to listen to that wretched beeping again. A couple minutes passed before she heard a familiar voice in the hallway.
"I'm looking for my daughter... Barbara Gordon?" A voice asked calmly, although it was full of concern. Someone gave him the number and he thanked them. A few seconds later he was standing at her door. His features took on an expression of mild relief.
"Hi Daddy..." She muttered softly. She suddenly wanted to cry. She hated it when her father worried about her. She was thankful he didn't know about her 'other' job.
"I'm so glad your alright. I almost had a heartattack when they called me at the office" The commissioner replied softly. He wrapped his daughter up in a warm hugged.
"Don't say that! You'll worry me!" Barbara said quickly. She didn't like it when her father talked about sickness and death, especially if it had to do with him. Her father sighed.
"I'm so glad your alright..." His voice trailed off. Barbara knew that she was his only real family left, if anything ever happened to her ... she didn't want to think of the damage it could do. She decided to focus on the loving embrace her father had wrapped her up in. In a way, she felt comforted. Just like when I was a little girl, she thought, he'd always wrap me up in a warm hug and tell me that everything would be ok. She giggled inwardly. Just like old times...
*************************************************************************************************
Rene shuffled a few papers nervously. Besides worrying about her friend, Jim had left her in charge of the meeting with the Bat. It wasn't that she was nervous about the meeting, she liked working with Batman and his crew, she just couldn't get over that Barbara was in the hospital.
"Are we interrupting anything?" A deep voice asked softly. Rene started and spun around. Two sets of glowing eyes peered through the darkness at her, one figure much shorter then the other. She grinned.
"Not at all. Long time no see Batman" She replied casually. "Nice to see you brought your friend along" She motioned towards Robin. She could see the proud grin form on his face. The duo came forward into the light. Batman looked around slightly bewildered.
"I hope you don't take offense, but where's Jim? He said we needed to talk" He asked. Rene detected concern in his voice. She hesitated.
"He's at the hospital-" She started.
"What?! Why?! What happened?" Batman asked, now quite concerned. "Is he ok?"
"Yea, he's fine. It's Barbara I'm worried about," Rene explained. Robin's eyes got wide. "She was in an accident tonight. A hit and run. The car's totaled, and I think she's been roughed up a little, I'm not sure. He went to check on her."
"I see" His voice rumbled softly. Robin looked up at him and he nodded. Then he silently stole into the shadows. Batman took a deep breath and went on. "I suppose we should continue. It appears Selena's back in town. There's a jewel called the Leopard's Eye at the museum. I have a feeling she's interested in it..." As he went on Robin slipped back beside him. As she listened, Rene wondered how they always managed to slip in and out so easily.
*************************************************************************************************
"I really enjoyed tonight. Call me" Lisa Parks said sweetly.
"Yea, I enjoyed it to. I'll talk to you later" Dick replied casually.
"Good night Dick"
"Bye Lisa" Dick closed the car door and walked up to the door. He quickly got out his keys and unlocked the door. As he closed the door he listened to the car drive off. He sighed. What a night... I think I like Barbara more he thought as he threw his jacket onto a chair. He flopped down on the sofa and was about to flip the t.v. on when the phone rang. He moaned.
"Why can't Bruce let me be for one night?" He muttered monotonously. He got up and answered the phone, not disguising his irritation. "Hello?"
"Master Dick, I'm so glad I reached you!" A cold chill ran down his back. He knew this voice well, and it never sounded like this unless something was really wrong.
"Alfred?! What's wrong?"
"Oh, it's terrible! The most dreadful thing-"
"What is it? What happened?" Now Dick started to panic. Alfred never freaked out and he sounded pretty worried. He felt a pit in the bottom of his stomach.
"Dick, Barbara's been in an accident-" Dick felt his heart drop.
"What?" He asked weakly, "is she ok?"
"I don't know. She's at Gotham Memorial... " Dick didn't need to hear the rest. He dropped the phone and grabbed his keys. He threw on his jacket and hit the door. Moments later he was speeding down the streets of Gotham.
"Hello? Master Dick? Oh dear..."
*************************************************************************************************
"I have to go Barbara. I'm long over due on a meeting" Jim leaned over and hugged his daughter. He hated to leave, but she seemed ok.
"I understand Daddy" She whispered. She smiled and added, "Say hello to Batman for me. And if Robin's there, to him too." Her father chuckled softly.
"I'll see you in the morning" Commissioner Gordon called out as he left. Barbara leaned back and sighed. She hoped he didn't worry too much. She let out a small groan. Now what? She wondered.
"I am soooo bored!" she complained outloud to no one in perticular. She wished she had someone to talk to. A small knock on her door brought her back to reality. "Come in"
"I hope you don't make a habit of talking to yourself, people might think your crazy" A voice teased. Barbara's eyes flew open. She didn't even have to open her eyes to know who it was.
"Dick!" She cried out happily. "What are you doing here!"
"I could ask you the same thing" He shot back playfully. She giggled. He knew how to make her feel better. She threw her arms around his neck and he hugged her gently. He softly whispered, "You know, there are better ways to get my attention then to land in the hospital."
"Dick..." she muttered softly. She felt tears welling up. He sat down on the bed and held her close. "Thanks for coming, it means a lot..."
"What kind of friend would I be if I didn't show?" He asked, gently stroking her hair back. She smiled warmly to answer his question. She looked up into his sparkling blue eyes. He leaned down...
"Excuse me? Ms. Gordon? I'm afraid... I'm afraid I have to hook you back up to the machine" The doctor said timidly. He was standing at the door. Dick turned in shock and Barbara blushed deeply. "I hope I didn't interupt anything."
"No, not at all" She replied, her voice dripping with sarcasm. She leaned back and let out a loud, irritated side. Dick looked uncomfortable and looked at the ground. He looked at Barbara questioningly as the doctor fiddled with the machine. She looked at the doctor and then whispered, "When I regained consciousness I pulled the wires out. I guess I looked like I died cuz they used the shock treatment on me... Twice."
"WHAT?!" The doctor turned at the sudden exclamation. Dick had a look of horror on his face, quickly replaced by anger. The doctor turned around, prefering not to look at the angry young man, who in his opinion, could snap him in two. She giggled. Dick scowled darkly at the man. The doctor approached Barbara cautiously. He eyed her companion and gulped. Barbara smiled at the doctor.
"Don't worry, he doesn't bite..." Barbara said quickly, trying to contain her laughter. Dick dropped his jaw slightly and let out a loud, intimidating growl.
"Most of the time" She added with a huge grin. The doctor quickly attached the wires and backed up a few steps. He looked at his watch.
"Well, I'm afraid I have a meeting to go to" He started. Dick continued to scowl at the doctor menacingly. "I'll check on you later. Have a nice night."
The doctor scampered out of the room hastily. Barbara burst out roaring with laughter. Dick's scowl melted into a mischievous smile. Soon he was laughing too. It took about ten minutes for them to settle down. Then there was an awkward silence. Dick looked at the ground and Barbara looked out the window. Finally Dick got up the nerve to speak.
"Barbara?"
"Yea?"
"Maybe I don't always show it but I... I really-"
"Barbara are you ok?!" Tim almost flew into the room he was running so fast. Again they turned in surprize. Tim was pantining by now, he had run up about ten flights and was ready to drop. He sprinted weakly to the bedside. Dick got up and walked to the window. He stared out into the black depths of the cloudly night.
"Yea. I'm ok" She replied warmly. She leaned over and recieved a somewhat gentle bear hug from her 'brother'. Heavy footsteps sounded in the hall and in a few moments Bruce was at the door with Alfred tagging behind.
"Barbara! Thank heavens your alright!" Alfred said gently. He spoke for both him and Bruce. Both came over and hugged her. It almost resembled a small family reunion. By now Dick had gotten his jacket and looked like he was ready to bolt. Barbara looked at the floor a minute. Never did stay long when Bruce showed up. Heh, not much has changed she thought unhappily. She let out a small involuntary sigh. When she looked up, Dick was staring at her. He hesitated, looked at Bruce and Tim, then threw his jacket back on the chair. He leaned back on the wall and crossed his arms over his chest. She smiled at him and then turned her attention back to her newest visitors. Dick let a half smile slide across his face. Somehow he and Barbara knew what the other wanted.
"The doctor said I could go home in the morning" She informed them.
"Are they nuts? You look like you've been through World War two!" Tim yelped. Dick laughed dryly, causing Bruce to look his way with a somewhat 'whats-so funny?' look on his face.
"Yea, she feels like it too. They thought she was dead and zapped her..." Bruce's mouth dropped open and Alred's eyes widened. Tim just stared in shock. Dick finished with a matter-of fact, "Twice."
"You really didn't have to tell them that..." Barbara stuttered out, her cheeks turning a light rose. The three men turned to her, all too shocked to speak. She quickly covered. "It's ok now, he apologized."
Suddenly a smile formed on Tim's face and he started to laugh. Barbara and Alfred joined in and soon Bruce lightened up, he even smiled. Bruce stuck up a conversation with Barbara, Alfred was checking to make sure the place was clean, and Tim wandered over to the machines. They all made some kind of noise, whether it was a soft hum or a somewhat irritating beep. A bright orange button seemed to jump out of nowhere and caught his attention. The orange button came from the machine that was beeping and seemed to fasicnate him. He carefully stepped towards the machine to get a better look. An urge to push the button over came him. He checked himself, saying that it was childish to want to do so, but the button was saying, 'push me... push me...'
"Hey Barbara? Whats this do?" He asked curiously. He didn't notice how his hand levitated and was now inches away from the orange beacon. Barbara turned her attention from the conversation and her eyes widened in horror. She panicked.
"No Tim! Don't touch that!" Too late. His finger hit the button and the machine let out, for the third time that day, a horrid high pitch scream. Tim jumped about ten feet back, staring at it. Bruce and Alfred covered their ears, Dick rolled his eyes and let out a sigh, and Barbara put her face into her hands and let out a loud moan.
The doctor was at the door in a matter of seconds. It almost caught Dick off guard, but not quite. He quickly spun out his leg and turned. He landed bow legged, arms folded neatly across his chest and put on 'I don't think so' look. The doctor screeched to a halt inches in front of him and stared into the menacing eyes... for the second time that night, only this time much closer then he liked. The nurse appeared at the door seconds later. Dick dropped his jaw slightly but remained silent. This was all the doctor needed to see.
"Nurse, she's fine. Sorry to disturb you Ms. Gordon!" He cried. He spun around and sped out of the room. He grabbed the nurses wrist causing her to turn a three sixty before she was yanked out of the room. Dick smiled and leaned back against the wall again. Finally Tim got the nerve to hit the button again. The machine stopped screaming and went back to it's normal beep. Barbara looked up and directly at Tim. She had on her face one of the most menacing scowls he'd ever seen.
"You. Are. Soooo dead" She muttered venomously. Tim went pale a moment, then a look of fear and embarassment crossed his face.
"Opps" He said weakly. He had a goofy look on his face which caused Barbara's scowl to lighten and then disappear. Dick started to laugh and Barbara joined in. Bruce was smiling and shook his head in disbelief. Alfred let out an entertained chuckle. Then an innocent smile crossed Tim's face and he laughed at his mistake. It took about ten minutes to get over the ordeal. They chatted for another hour and then the nurse came to the door. She looked at Dick and he smiled. She shook her head and muttered something about the doctor being delusional and how he could make such irrational judgments about such a nice young man. She shook her head.
"Visiting hours are over" The nurse stated plainly. "You'll have to go. I'd let you all stay but it's the rules." Alfred gave Barbara a hug and signaled Tim. He rushed over and threw his arms around Barbara's neck.
"See ya later Barbara" He whispered. Alfred handed him his jacket and they started out the door. Halfway into the hall, Tim turned and waved bye. Barbara smiled and waved back. Dick watched them go but remained in his corner. Then his attention turned to Bruce.
"I better go. There's no telling what kind of trouble he'll give Alfred if I'm not there. See you tomorrow" Bruce said as he hugged her good night. He turned and walked to the door. He looked at Dick and nodded. Dick nodded back and Bruce left. It was their way of saying good night. The nurse leaned on the door and cleared her throat. Dick looked at her innocently.
"What?"
"Don't give me what. You too Junior" The nurse tried to sound annoyed, but an amused smiled had crossed her face. She had to admire him. He seemed to be quite protective of the patient. He smiled michievously.
"Do I have too?" He asked, his voice in a mocking whine. The nurse chuckled. The boy was old enough to be her son.
"Do I have to get security?"
"Fine, have it your way. I'm going" He trotted over to the bedside. Barbara had stopped giggling and now was smiling. He wrapped her in another warm embrace. She wished silently for a minute that he could stay, but she knew he couldn't for a few reasons. One, the doctor wouldn't let him. Two, her father. Three, Bruce. And four, she'd never had the courage to ask him.
"I'm waiting" The nurse said, faking impatience. Dick sighed and Barbara pulled back. He looked at the nurse and back at Barbara. He quickly leaned down and kissed her on the lips.
"See you tomorrow Barbara" He called as he shot out the door. She was too stunned to respond. The nurse chuckled and turned out the lights.
"Good night Ms. Gordon" She said softly. She turned and left Barbara alone. Barbara leaned back and closed her eyes, smiling. That night had turned out pretty well, considering what happened and tomorrow she'd get to go home. She dozed off into a peaceful sleep.
Part 3/a
Barbara rolled over on the couch for the millionth time that day. She was really bored. That morning her dad had picked her up around nine thirty and brought her home from the hospital. It was now nine thirty at night. She flipped through the channels another ten times. She groaned loudly. I'd advise you to stay off your feet. At least for the next twelve hours. That's what the doctor had said. Then he added and take it easy for the next week or so. She grunted softly.
"I don't have time to stay off my feet!" she muttered bitterly. "At least not for a week!" She knew that if the guys found out what the doctor said she wouldn't get out for the next month or so. She guessed they already knew. She let out an irritated sigh. "Why is it every time I actually have the chance to watch late night t.v. there's nothing good on! Ahhhhhhh!"
She flipped off the t.v. and threw her remote across the room. Great. Now I have to go get it she thought, now more irritated then ever. She sighed. Now what? She scanned the room. Her eyes landed on the phone. She grinned.
"Hmmm. I wonder what Tim's up to? Only one way to find out" She got up and walked over to the phone. She hit speed dial and waited patiently.
"Hello?" an older man's voice answered. Barbara smiled.
"Hey Alfred"
"Hello Barbara, how are you?" he replied happily.
"Really good, just a bad case of boredom. Should I tell you what the doctor said or do you know already?"
"I already know. Master Bruce talked to your father earlier." Barbara gave an inward groan and snapped her fingers.
"Great. Does this mean he's not gonna let me go out?"
"I believe you know the answer to that." She groaned openly now. "It's only for your own good. He doesn't want you getting hurt."
"Yea, yea. I know" She sighed. There goes my nights...
"As much as I enjoy talking to you, I don't think that's the reason you called. Who would you like to talk to?"
"Is Tim there?"
"Just a moment Barbara. I'll get him"
"Thanks Alfred" A few seconds later Tim's voice came over the line.
"Hey Barbara"
"Hi Tim"
"So, how's house arrest?"
"That's not funny. I honestly feel like I'm under house arrest. And now I know I don't have a chance of getting out"
"Bummer"
"Your tellin' me?"
"Sure" That got Barbara to giggle. It was good to hear her so chipper. "I bet your glad to be outta that hospital. That doctor was really weird!"
"No he wasn't"
"You gotta be kiddin' me. That guy was so jumpy I thought he'd go through the roof!" Barbara laughed harder. This meant there was something she wasn't telling him and he wanted to know. "What's so funny?"
"That can be explained"
"Oh really?" Sarcasm and intrigue dripped off the words. "Then would you mind explaining? I'd love to know the joke"
"Umm.... I don't know" she stopped laughing and now almost sounded nervous.
"Oh come on Barbara! Tell me! I bet it's really good!" It had to be or she wouldn't be hesitating like this.
"Well..."
"Just spit it out!" he practically yelled.
"Ok, ok. I'll tell you"
"Yes!"
"But don't tell Dick"
"Why?"
"You know how he gets when-" She stopped cold. "Never mind. So what's new?"
"Chicken"
"Am not!"
"Then tell me! I won't tell!" Tim crossed his fingers, that way he could get out of it if it was good. Barbara sighed. He was persistent and she was giving in.
"I dunno..."
"Please"
"Fine. I'll tell you. You know how intimidating he can look when he wants to terrify some poor guy, right?"
"Yea..." Tim smiled. He could tell this was good so he kept his fingers crossed.
"Well, when I told him about getting zapped the doctor was reconnecting me to the machine" She started to giggle.
"Uh oh" Tim giggled.
"He gave the doctor this really menacing scowl. It was great. He looked ready to snap the poor doc in two"
"I bet he wanted to" Tim muttered under his breath.
"What?" Barbara inquired. "I didn't hear you"
"Um, nothing" He covered quickly. Barbara raised her eye brow. "Go on"
"So I smiled at the doctor and told him that Dick didn't bite" Tim giggled again. "That's when Dick growled at him"
"He did WHAT?!?!" Now Barbara was giggling.
"He growled at him"
"No way!"
"Way. Not only that but he dropped his jaw so his teeth were showing!" Barbara cracked up remembering the scene. Tim was in hysterics just thinking about it. "So I mildly added, most of the time"
"Oh man! The poor doctor!"
"Yea, I know"
"The nurse thought he was funny"
"Yea I know. She thought it was cute when he kissed me good night" Barbara slipped out. She panicked, realizing what she just said.
"He'll never live it down!" Tim was roaring with laughter. Barbara gulped.
"Tim, you can't!" She said quickly. Her tone was desperate and regretful.
"Why?"
"He'd... well... You just can't. Please Tim" She begged. Tim looked down at his crossed fingers and thought a moment.
"Ok I won't" He said flatly.
"Promise?"
"Yea, yea. I promise"
"Thanks" She smiled, silently hoping that he won't tell. She knew her 'little brother' and she was already regretting this. She knew she shouldn't have told him, but she did. Now she had to pay the consequences. Please don't tell Dick, please... A muffled voice talked to Tim in the background. It sounded like Alfred, but she couldn't understand what was being said.
"Hey Barbara? I have to... do homework"
"Oh?" Now it was her time to inquire.
"Yea, there's some math problems I've been having trouble with and-"
"You mean the signal's up and you have to go" She cut him off.
"Yea... how'd you know?" He sounded puzzled.
"Been there, done that" She was being flippant. Tim smiled mischievously.
"Any way, Dick's here to help out" She paled. "Gotta go"
"Tim-" Click. Barbara scowled at the phone. He was toast. She was kicking herself for telling him about what happened. Dick always acted weird when it came to his feelings. Especially when it came to her. Sometimes he reminded her of Bruce, but he wasn't that bad, not yet any ways. She let out a loud sigh.
"Might as well see what's going down. There's nothing better to do" She muttered. She got up and quickly retrieved the remote. She looked around and grabbed her keys. Pity the car's in the shop. Guess I'll just have to use another mode of transportation... She smiled mischievously. They were gonna kill her. She shrugged and headed out.
****************************************************
Dick was in the Batcave and Bruce was suiting up when Alfred returned. He had a plate full of chocolate chip cookies, napkins and three full glasses of milk. He smiled warmly at Dick, who returned it.
"Good evening Master Dick"
"Hey Alfred. Where's Tim?"
"He's coming. He just got off the phone with Barbara" Dick raised an eyebrow. Alfred just smiled at him. He wondered a moment what he was smiling about. Around ten seconds later Robin burst into the cave at a high speed. He bolted down the steps and into the training room.
"Hi Dick"
"Hey Tim. What's new?" A huge, wicked grin spread across Tim's face. "Why do I have the feeling I shouldn't have asked that?"
"Did you really kiss Barbara last night?" An expression of shock crossed his face.
"How'd you-?"
"Take a guess" Tim teased.
"Barbara"
"How did you get that so quick?"
"It's your turn to guess"
"Alfred"
"Very good. Your getting smarter all the time"
"So did you really kiss her?"
"Maybe"
"I think it's cute"
"What's cute?"
"That you think Barbara's hot"
"Shut up Tim"
"She also told me why the doctor was so jumpy"
"Your kiddin' me"
"Nope"
"Aw sh-"
"It must have been sooooooo cute! Sticking up for your girlfriend like that" Tim heard Bruce talking to Alfred. He planned his exit.
"SHUT UP TIM! She's NOT my girlfriend!" Dick thundered angrily. Tim heard Alfred tell Bruce he'd get Robin. He let a cocky, mischievous grin slide across his face. He smiled, knowing how to get in the last word.
"Don't deny it. You like her" Tim heard Bruce call his name. He turned and walked out. Dick was fuming.
"The little brat..."
"Hey Nightwing? Are you coming or what?" Batman yelled impatiently. Dick growled and walked up to the computer where Batman was. He surveyed the situation and sighed. Catwoman was on the prowl, the Riddler was out of the rehab center, and Professor Crane was being release from Arkym. He wondered what the plans were for the night.
"So far no one has pulled anything, but we should be on the look out. I'm not worried about Edward or Johnathan, but-"
"Selina is another story" Dick finished. Bruce looked up at him and actaully smiled. This was one of the rare moments when Bruce showed his emotions. And this one was of pride. Dick smiled back at him, for once.
"Do you think she'll-" Dick stopped dead in the middle of his sentence. Another bike had just entered the cave. Bruce was on his feet and Dick spun around. He knew the sound of that bike. "It can't be..."
Tim peeked out from the inside of the Batmobile. His jaw dropped. Barbara slowed the Batcycle and then it came to a halt. She jumped off it and put the kickstand down. Dick and Bruce were down the stairs in a flash. She smiled as they screeched to halt several yards in front of her. She pulled off her helmet and gently placed it on the seat after jumping off the bike. She walked up to them and smiled.
"Hi guys. Ya miss me?" She chirped happily. It felt good to move around again. Her smile faded as Batman and Nightwing stared silently. She frowned slightly. "Now what'd I do?"
The annoyance in her voice was evident but still everyone remained silent. By now Tim's jaw had hit the floor. Alfred had also come downstairs and froze in place when he saw the visitor.
"Oh dear" He muttered. It didn't surprize him that Barbara had come. He knew that she'd feel pinned up and eventually she'd need to get out. He had hoped it wouldn't be so soon. He looked at Bruce and Dick and then quietly moved into the shadows. Luckily no one had seemed to notice his presence. A few moments later chaos erupted.
"Barbara are you nuts?!"
"What are you doing here?!"
"Hey, did your bike get a new paint job?" Dick glared at Tim, who grinned impishly and shrank into the Batmobile. She smiled warmly at Tim, who returned it. She turned to her friends.
"Dick you know I'm not crazy and Bruce, what do you think I'm doing here?! I wanna help" Dick looked at Bruce, who had turned to look at him. It was almost comical. Then both looked back at her, took a deep breath and let out a long sigh.
Like father, like son she thought humorously. It was at times like this that Barbara could see how much Dick had become like Bruce. No matter how often he said that they were nothing alike. She hesitantly went on.
"Grant it, I probably shouldn't suit up. I mean, going out after what happened would probably be really dumb-"
"Uh, yea" Barbara shot a glare at Dick, who now had a mild scowl on his face and had crossed his arms over his chest.
"But there's nothing wrong with hanging out here. You know, behind the scene type of stuff. I can work on the computer or fix my bike or-"
"Go home and rest" Dick added. Barbara scowled at him. He shot a sarcastic smile at her. Bruce watched the two interact. It was almost like the old days. A smile briefly crossed his face as he remembered the brief flirtations between Robin and Batgirl. They were so perfect for each other, yet they didn't take any notice. That or they didn't want to. He shook his head and dismissed the thought.
"You need to rest. Alfred will take you home. If we need you, we'll call. Until then, stay put. Got it?" Batman said sternly. He had that 'don't-argue-with-me' look. She opened her mouth to protest but seeing she couldn't win, closed it. She put on a look that resembled both a scowl and a pout. She turned her back to the two men. Bruce turned to Dick. "We'll meet you at the museum. Make sure she gets home"
"No problem" Batman walked past Barbara and got into the Batmobile. She stuck out her tongue at him. The hatch closed and the car sped into the night. Barbara scowled. This is *so* not fair, he never lets me... She was brought back to the present by a hand on her shoulder. She spun around to face Dick. She could tell he was slightly angry, but she wasn't sure about what. His tone was cold. "You heard him. Go home"
"Thanks for sticking up for me" She snapped harshly. "And what's wrong with you? Why are you so mad?"
"Why do you think?!"
"I can't read your mind"
"Did you have to tell him?" He asked accusingly. A look of shock crossed her face. It was soon followed by a look of anger. The little brat! He promised! She quickly thought up a defense.
"So what's wrong with telling him?"
"Your not my girlfriend" A twinge of pain shot through Barbara. She knew that, but it hurt when he said it, especially the way he said it. It was cold and uncaring. Barbara felt tears starting to form and with the tears came old pain and anger.
"I'm aware of that fact thank you" She hissed venomously. A strange fire lit her eyes, one that he had never seen before. It surprised him. "I'm not a little girl"
"I know that"
"Then stop treating me like a child!"
"If you'd stop acting like a child I would!"
"You're so immature!"
"At least I"m not a puppet on a string" He snapped back. A small silence occurred. Both stared at the other, trying to calm down, knowing they couldn't.
"And what's that supposed to mean?" She inquired coldly. He took a deep breath before going on.
"You wanna know? Fine, I'll tell you.Before I struck out on my own, I couldn't do anything without Bruce's approval. I couldn't see friends because I had to train or I'd have to leave because the signal went up-"
"I know. You ditched out on me more times then I could count!"
"I did anything for him. I was a puppet on a string, I couldn't think for myself" He paused a moment to let it sink in. It wouldn't take her long to get it. Sure enough, her eyes widened in realization and her jaw dropped. "I thought I'd never make it on my own. He had the greater skill, he was stronger, HE had the name. I lived my live in his shadow. I was the sidekick. The one to be thrown around and laughed at. I did what he told me without any questions. I rarely used my own head. Finally I got tired of being a puppet and I broke my strings. I became Nightwing-"
"It certainly took you long enough didn't it?" She sneered, knowing what was next.
"But I"ve broken my strings. You haven't. You always do what he says, you never question it. If he says jump, you say, how high. You're a puppet" Dick snapped.
"No I'm not!"
“You lost your independence when you replaced me as the trusty sidekick”
“I am not a sidekick” Barbara retorted.
“Sure you are, and that’s why your mad. Because you know it. You’re nothing without him-”
"What?!" She cried in shock.
“You don’t have any skill-” He continued.
“No!”
“You’re weak. You wanna know the real reason why any one’s afraid of you?”
“Shut up Dick”
“It’s because where ever you are, he is. They’re not afraid of you, they’re afraid of him. *You’re* just a sidekick You couldn’t take down someone if you tried!”
“I could too!”
“Yea right,-sidekick” He hit his mark. Barbara’s eyes were wet, but she was determined not to cry. Her eyes narrowed at him.
“I HATE YOU!” She screamed. Dick went numb. She ran the palm of her hand across his right cheek. The slap cracked like a bull whip and let a painful sting on his face. She backed away, then turned and sprinted to her bike. Tears streamed down her her face. She jumped on her bike and put on her helmet. The words had cut both of them deeply. Dick was frozen with shock. Barbara started the bike. He’s wrong, I can do it on my own. I chose to work with him... He shook his head and started after her on foot. She pulled away just as he reached her. And somehow I’ll prove it...
“Barbara wait!” He called desperately. She hit the gas and let a trail of dust as she took off. He watched her tail lights fade into the darkness. Bruce was going to kill him. But there was something else...
“I‘m sorry” He whispered. He walked over to the wall and leaned his head up against it. He didn’t mean to say the things he did, or to hurt her. That’s the last thing he wanted to do, yet it always seemed to happen. He really wasn’t that mad about her telling Tim about what happened, he was just... scared. He was worried something would happen to her, so why couldn’t he just tell her that. “Stupid pride... You can come out now. She’s gone”
He turned towards the place where Alfred was hiding. Alfred came out with a shock on his face. Dick smiled. “I knew you were there, I just didn’t say anything. So, how long will it be until she speaks to me?”
“What do you mean Master Dick?” Dick scowled.
“Come on Alfred. I acted like a total jerk. I sounded off when I should’ve kept my mouth shut. Even I know that”
“One often says things they don’t mean when they’re angry” Dick turned towards his friend.
“So what do I do?” He asked quietly. Gone was the anger and pride. His eyes were troubled and a look of regret shown clearly on his face. He wasn’t Nightwing anymore, he was Dick Grayson, the real Dick Grayson. Not the one who felt like he had to prove his worthiness. With Alfred he could be himself, he didn’t have to prove anything. Alfred put a comforting hand on his shoulder of the young man he adopted as his grandson.
“I believe you already know the answer to that” He replied gently. Dick looked at him questioningly for a moment, then nodded in understanding.
“It won’t be easy” Dick muttered looking away.
“Admitting when one is wrong rarely is” Dick smiled. Somehow Alfred always knew what to say.
“Yea, I guess so”
“There’s something else, isn’t there?”
“There always is Alfred, there always is” Not wanting to go further and say what that ‘something else’ was, Dick made his way to his bike. He put on his helmet and mounted. The engines roared.
“I gotta go. I’ll apologize later, right now I have a job to do” Once again Alfred was talking to Nightwing. The shields were back up and Alfred knew it was useless to argue. Dick and Bruce were very similar in the that once their mind was made up, no one could change it. Dick hit the gas. Alfred watched him sped off into the night.
“You always did, Master Dick, you always do...”
************************************************
"Hey girl! How ya doin'?" Mattie chirped. Maggie was folding robes when Mattie came in. She looked up and smiled at her friend. She momentarily stopped folding.
"Mattie! Hey girl!" Maggie replied. Mattie hugged her.
"Look at you! You poor dear!" Mattie said, noting the various scratches and bruises. Maggie shrugged.
"I looked worse before" She said coolly.
"How did it happen?"
"Ah, I... Look, it's no biggie, don't worry"
"Maggie..." Mattie inquired. Suddenly Maggie looked away, shame written on her face. Mattie could tell something was up and went on. "Come on girl, you can tell me! Please Maggie"
"You'd hate me if I told you"
"I've heard the worst, trust me"
"I broke into a place last night. I needed money. I tried to loot it but the alarms went off and I ran for it. I fell down the fire escape stairs and lost all I got. I need money... please help me... My rent just went up, I can barely feed myself, the heater's broke- I'll freeze if it's not fixed! And the landlord says that if I don't pay the last three months rent now I won't have an apartment to go to! There's no place for me to go!"
"You poor thing... I wish I could help" Maggie gave Mattie a funny look.
"You can"
"How?"
"You know how"
"What do you mean?"
"Come on Mattie, we all know you got connections! Someone's gotta have a job to do... Mattie"
"How'd you-?! Maggie I can't"
"Mattie, I really really need the money... PLEASE" Mattie hesitated."MATTIE!"
"Well..."
"You still dating Lar?"
"Oh fine. I'll tell you.Rumor has it the Joke's broke... again. He's literally gotta beg to stay outta Arkhym"
"Again? He doesn't have any hair brain scam?"
"Nope. I think he's workin on one"
"Why do you say that?"
"He's... he's looking for somebody. He won't tell anyone about what, but he's looking. Does that help?"
"Yea. Now I need details"
"Huh?"
"Where can I find him?"
"He's in South Gotham. Since the Bat found his last place he had to move around. He's finally found one"
"Good, good. Go on"
"There's a place down there called Lima's. It used to be a thriving, high class restuarant. Then Thorne came to town. He started doing business near there. Slowly the high class snobs became low life thugs. Now the place is run down and abandoned. At least it was until a few months ago when the Joke found it. Now it's his place. I'm not giving the address, but I'll tell you this. They were famous for their trademark. It was a single red rose bud with a single leaf"
"That it?"
"Yea"
"Thanks hon"
"No prob"
"I gotta go Mattie"
"Hey Meg?"
"Yea?"
"Becareful. Remember this is the Joker your messing with"
"I will be and don't worry. I have connections. Your name will never come up"
"Thanks Meg" With that Maggie turned and hit the door. She probably wouldn't run into Mattie again. She felt kinda bad about that, it was too bad that such a nice girl had gotten tangled up with the wrong crowd. Maybe we will meet again... someday she thought. She jumped on her bike and turned it home. She had a lot of work to do before she met her new boss.
************************************************
Maggie pulled up to an old warehouse a couple blocks away from the PD. She parked her bike in the garage. She looked around and then snuck into the main building. Inside was a perfect apartment. There was a huge living quarters and observatory. The observatory was seperte from the rest of the living quarters. She flopped a black leather jacket on the bed and bit her lip. I gotta be nuts, if they find out... she shuddered. She hated conditioning, especially the type he gave. She tried to push the thought to the back of her mind. Well, they won't she decided, here goes nothing... The lady sighed and got out the items that would be needed.
A bottle of black hair dye that washed out in 24 washes, she won't have it any other way. A few miscellenious earrings, all of which were gold. A white make up paste, black eye shadow, lip liner, eye liner and nail polish... and to top it all off, black leather pants and a white tank top. At least I don't have to worry about my wardrob she thought with amusement. She began her "transformation".
She washed her hair golden blond hair, turning it into raven's wing. She smoothed the white paste onto her arms and face. She looked in the mirror and nodded approvingly. She looked pale and ghostly. It would give a bone chilling impression. Then she painted her nails. They grew longer with the dark color on them. She gently applied the eye and lip make up and smiled. Almost done...
She added the final touch. She clipped a gold earring onto her tongue, hoping she wouldn't swallow it. Then she hooked a gold hoop into her right nostril. She put two gold studs in her ears and attached a final gold stud to the top of her right ear. She hesitated, and then looked into the mirror again. Before her stood a total stranger. She touched her face to make sure it was really her.
"Perfect..." She gasped, "Absolulely perfect."
A smile crept across her face. Never in a million years would they be able to tell it was her. Ok Bats, let's see how good you really are... she challenged. She knew that if she really wanted to pull it off she'd need an attitude adjustment. That could take care of that easily. She slid into the leather pants and white tank top. The final touch to the clothing was the leather jacket. She walked out to the garage and hopped on her bike. It gave a gentle purr. The engines roared and the young woman sped into the night, heading towards the South side of Gotham. Lima's. Gotta remember that she thought. She knew how to get the job but wasn't sure how to handle the actual "mission". That will come later. Once I figure out what the mission is... Now, I need a name. What should I go by? She wondered. Hmm... Raven? No, too- birdish. Shadow? Maybe. Let's see, They call me shadow. Shadow of the Night... No. Absolutely not. It doesn't fit. Nocturna? No, it sounds too much like nocturnal, which might remind them of Bats... What can I go by? She passed various buildings on the way to her destination. Houses, warehouses, the PD, clubs. She stopped at a light outside the club that she and Mattie had visited a coulpe days ago. The Mirage. She bit her lip with frustration. What can I go- Suddenly, it hit her. A smile formed under the black helmet. It was perfect, absolutly perfect. As if agreeing, the light turned green. She put the petal to the metal and started on her way. Slowly all the "glamour" started to fade into a slum like state.
She knew that she had reached the south side. The bike slowed down. She rode around the deserted streets until she reached Milton's Parkway. The third building on the left had a single red rose bud with a leaf painted on it. She stopped the bike momentarily and observed the surroundings. Then she pulled the bike into the alley and hit it behind an accessable dumpster. If needed, she could make a quick exit. Then she crept around the building and found the back door. She took a deep breath and carefully slide into Lima's.
Ok, there's the first few... I'm really tired. School just got out and I've been studyinh nonstop. I'll post more soon.