Parallel 44!

Story one:

Long Lusting.

Drake Strike*

(Authors Note: This story is about the whole Young Justice Team, but mainly Robin and Kid Flash, from their meeting to their change from best friends to lovers. But it will follow others and their events including a new character, who will change all their lives forever. Drama, Humour, Romance, and Horror all rolled into one. M for Slash. This story is based in a parallel earth, Earth 44, in parallel universe 44. It will follow the DC universe closely but small decisions will change events to allow characters to have relationships and adventures that are somewhat impossible in the actual DC universe. For example, Wally goes to G.A the school Dick, and later Connor, Artemis and M'Gann, go to. This will allow a turn of events that will lead to Wally's and Dick's friendship. [In this Chapter, Dick is 12 years old, his parents died when he was eight. Wally is 14.]

Disclaimer: I do not own DC or any of the characters; I do own Parallel 44 and this original storyline that will entwine these characters together.)

Chapter 1: Starting on our way, Part one.

Dick Grayson:

Gotham City.

August 28, 00:32 EDT.

Wayne Manor.

"Gosh Bruce. What a boring party?" Dick Grayson said and he threw his tuxedo jacket on top of the sofa. "I can't believe that you made me go." Dick pouted as he looked up at the Billionaire, Bruce Wayne.

"Come on Dick," Bruce said, as he hung his black and grey overcoat up, and untangled himself from the large woollen scarf without messing up his slicked back, combed, freshly cut black hair.

"It wasn't that bad, cultures good for you. Besides, if you didn't come, I would have gone suicidal from boredom." Bruce smirked, his blue eyes glancing at the youthful boy, ruffling Dick's dark silky locks as he passed. Dick looked at Bruce smiling, Dick also had blue eyes, but his was lighter, they shined, not overcome with the experience of age, as he watched Bruce leave the room.

"Uuaahhh," Dick yawned, it had been such a long day, but it was always like this in Wayne Manor. He came to live with Bruce after the tragedy of his parent's death four long years ago; Bruce took him in as his ward. At times it felt like it was only yesterday, and it kind of was, what with his night terrors constantly reminding him, waking most mornings in cold sweats and shaking. Dick sat down on the sofa; thoughts about his past always made him slightly overwhelmed.

Dick smiled, sometimes his memories would take so long to reminisce over, he was so young, but had a past longer than that of most middle aged men. 'Time to go to bed I guess.' He thought aloud, lifting himself up off the sofa. It was the same sofa he and Bruce had slept on half a decade ago when his parents were murdered by Zucco. He needed to be comforted and Bruce was there, and Bruce was there for him ever since. Dick chuckled at the thought of himself snuggling up to Bruce.

"Ahem."

Dick, startled, turned to face the elderly grey haired butler who had just entered the room.

"Master Richard, will you be heading to bed soon? You have school tomorrow do you not?" Alfred questioned him in his very posh well educated British accent.

"Yea Alf, that party surprisingly took a lot out of me tonight, the head executive of Eleromax Conglomerate, Geo Langley, he introduced me to his daughter, Lora Langley, and we spent most the evening on the dance floor." Dick said, sighing from exhaustion.

"Sounds like you had a wonderful time sir. Would you care for a hot beverage before you call it a night?"

"Yes please Alfred." Dick replied. "May I have a hot chocolate?"

"Of course sir, I shall bring it up to your room when it is ready."

"Thanks Alf, you're the best." Dick beamed up at the Butler who was more like a Grandfather than a servant.
"You are most welcome Master Richard." The Butler gave a slight bow and elegantly turned on his heel and drifted away in through the kitchen doors.

Dick started up the illustrious staircase of the Manor towards his room. The Manor was so glorious, and it was exquisitely furnished. Dick had been amazed when he had first arrived at the Wayne estate, when he stepped through the large mahogany front doors his jaw dropped and his eyes widened. It was so extravagant, the large entrance hall, all the beautiful portraits of the Wayne Ancestry that lined the walls. The crystal chandelier that lit the whole room up, allowing one to see the mural painted on the ceiling, stretching across to the magnificently carved roof skirting. And the perfectly sculpted statues that graced the marble pillars they rested upon, giving the room much added class and its superlative feel. Dick loved living here; it would seem that it was just pure luxury and the exact environment to encourage snobbery. But Bruce never spoilt Dick, Bruce taught him, educated him in being modest and selfless. Dick's parents raised him to be considerate and kind to others. He upheld their good name, the Grayson name. Dick wasn't going to disappoint them by turning into some posh rich jerk. Bruce would also be disappointed if he did, and Dick didn't ever want to hurt the person who took him in and loved him like a son.

Dick continued up the stairs, which always took a while to get to the top. He had insisted they get an elevator…though he made the excuse that it was for Alfred in his old age, but really Dick just hated the long climb. But over time, he has gotten use to it in a way, letting his body go into auto-pilot while his mind wandered. Dick would often day dream, at school, during dinner, and in the Rolls Royse on the way home. The ride to the manor always provided an opportunity for Dick to think about things, as the Wayne estate was just outside the city limits, well, seventeen miles to be exact. But it was still considered part of Gotham, a big part of Gotham. Many parties for such things like the police benefit fundraiser and the annual balls for Gotham's Richest, best, and brightest. Everyone gasps when they drive through the gates and see the building for the first time. No one could deny its superiority when it came to awe-inspiring beauty.

Nothing could compare to the unique architecture of the Wayne Manor, except perhaps the original Wayne tower. It was one of the oldest and richest buildings in Gotham central, designed by Bruce's great, great grandfather Alan Wayne. Wayne Manor had a few small stone Gargoyles, but Wayne tower had thirteen of them, though Bruce's ancestor insisted that they be called guardians. They were all individually chiselled from stone and placed around the tower. Five on the first tier of the tower, watching over the original entrances to Gotham, the three bridges and two tunnels, and seven up near the top of the tower, just below the large glass observation deck to watch over the train lines coming into Gotham. But few knew about the thirteenth, sitting far below the rest, installed later by Alan's son Henry, Bruce's great grandfather, watching over all those entering Gotham by air. The tower looked amazing, and even though now over the years Gotham's building had grown larger and taller than the old Wayne tower could ever be, it still was the heart of the city, watching over everyone, it was the symbol Gotham looked up, besides one other symbol that is…a symbol that protected the city, stroke fear in the hearts of criminals, a symbol, a man…the Batman.

Batman was Gotham's protector, the greatest detective in the world, the Dark Knight. After Dick had lost his parents, he was taken in by Mr Bruce Wayne as his ward, and a few nights later, he discovered Bruce was Batman, and soon Dick was fighting alongside him as Robin. Batman trained him in combat and hacking skills, and the art of deduction. Fighting criminals and saving lives now meant everything to Dick, Robin was his true life, and being a Billionaires adopted son wasn't going to turn him into a brat. Being a Billionaire didn't turn Bruce into a selfish man. Most people would have been devastated by the death of their parents, turned to Drugs, Alcohol, and sex. But instead he turned to crime fighting, vengeance against the evil of the city, a hero living in the shadows that the corrupt and indecent take comfort and safety in. Batman was someone who was beyond corruption, a symbol who protected and inspired Gotham to be better, and it was slowly working. No, Bruce wasn't selfish, every night he risked his life for others, he would sacrifice himself for others, anyone, a complete stranger. No, Bruce was far from being egocentric and self-centred.

"Finally." Dick exclaimed as he neared the top of the stairs. Dick walked across the hall to his room and fell back on the bed. He was really tired now, his legs ached and his heart was pacing. Dick yawned again, pulling off his shoes and undressing, throwing his suit on the floor. 'I'll throw it in the laundry tomorrow morning.' Dickthought, now in his boxers, crawling under the sheets and resting his head upon his pillow.

Dick just lay there, reminiscing about the events from the day, when Alfred walked in.

"Master Richard, your Beverage." Alfred placed a tray with a steaming mug of Hot Chocolate down onto the bedside table. Dick sat up quickly and picked up the drink, taking a small sip, the hot liquid tasted so good as it flowed down his throat.

"Mmmm, so nice Alfred, you make the best Coco in the world, thank you so much."

"You are most welcome Master Richard." The old butler chuckled.

Alfred noticed the suit thrown about the floor, and began picking it up.

"I will take this to the laundry room. Anything else you need sir?"

"No Alfred, I'm fine, and I can walk it down to the laundry tomorrow morning, I don't want you walking all that way when it's my mess."

"It is my job sir. I am heading down there anyway; I have some of my own clothing I need to wash. Goodnight Master Dick, pleasant dreams."

"You to Alf, G'night." Dick said, a huge grin plastered on his face. Alfred bowed and left the room, Dick watched him as he closed the door. Dick loved Alfred so much, he always took care of Dick, Alfred was just an amazing person. And his Hot chocolate really did rule. Dick took a greedy gulp, scorching his tongue. After Dick had finished his drink he placed it back on the try and, his eyelids now heavy, drifted off to sleep.

'It's alright Dick, it's just like any other show.' A female's voice echoed though his mind. 'There is no need to be nervous. We'll go on and you will be amazing. You'll see.'

'Common, it's time to go on now son, put on your big smile, and just imagine you're flying.' A males voice this time. Bodies began to take shape, the burly dark figure of the man crouching down in front of Dick.

Son. Son? This man was his father, and she was his mother. His Parents, they now took on full form, no longer fuzzy incomprehensible silhouettes, but his parents, dressed in green and red matching outfits. Dick looked down at his own outfit; he was also wearing green and red. A yellow circle made up the background for a big black 'R' on his chest. He looked around, they were walking out towards a large tent, his parents on either side of him, holding his hands. They entered the tent, bright lights blinded Dick, but after a few seconds his eyes adjusted, to reveal the magnificence of Haly's Circus.

A spotlight shown on him and his parents, the crowd cheering, shouting 'Flying Grayson's!' and clapping. Dick couldn't help but smile, the sight was so heart-warming.

He climbed up the centre pole, his parent climbing after him, and when he reached the top he looked down towards the audience. They were here to see him and his parents, the 'Flying Grayson's', he was a Flying Grayson. They began the routine, swinging, somersaulting, throwing and catching. The crowd was amazed, 'oooh's' and 'ahhh's' rose from the exciting spectators, until it was time for the final trick. Mr Haly, entered the centre ring.

'Ladies and gentlemen, the Flying Grayson's, aren't they just awe-inspiring, and such grace, what a show. But it's not over yet, oh no, it's time for their finale, their most dangerous trick. But, that's not all, oh no...' Haly signalled to some stage hands and with a few pins being pulled from the outer poles, the net fell to the ground. 'No net!'

The crowd gasped, but continued clapping and watching intently. Drums began to beat loudly and Dick's parents stood on the edge of the platform suspended from the centre pole.

Taking the trapeze in their hands, Dicks parents prepared to start the climactic finish of their act. Dick knew to wait, it wasn't his turn to join his parents, he would play his part in the final flip, the most dangerous, a quadruple back somersault.

His parents took off, swinging out high above the crowd, flipping and catching each other with such grace and beauty. It even impressed Dick.

Dick looked around when something caught his eye, a man, a familiar man. It was that Gangster from earlier, his name was 'Tony Zucco.'

He's the reason why he felt so nervous; he had come round in the morning and tried to threaten his parents into paying protection money. What was he doing here? Before he could think any more of it, something terrible and tragic happened, and Dicks face became one of shock and fear.

His parents swung towards Dick reaching out for him to join them, but before he could take their hands, the Trapeze went slack. The two blots holding the trapeze taut across the circus poles had come undone and his parents began to hurtle the ground.

Dick could only watch as his beloved parents fell to their doom. His dad grabbed his wife's hand, squeezing it, closing his eyes tight in surrender.

'Mom, Dad!' Dick screamed. 'NO!' He could hear the frightened whisper of his nam,e his mother's hand still reaching for him as she plummeted four stories, the sound of her bones cracking echoing through the boys head. The Audiences screams crescendoed, one particular piercing scream from a woman rang in his ears, but then they faded into the background of Dick's inner turmoil, tears flooding down his checks, eyes staring, wide open. The horrific scene below of his parent's bodies in a twisted contorted mess of blood and split bones. It was so painful to look at. Dick continued to cry, deep gasps of air trying to reach Dicks lungs as he sobbed. Down below a well-dressed man looked up at Dick with deep ocean blue sorrowful eyes. Dick just collapsed on the platform and hid his face in his hands. 'Daddy…Mommy…no.'

'Ahhh!' Dick screamed, shooting up in his bed in a cold sweat. His whole body shook and tears were streaming down his cheeks. 'Oh god…no, no.' Was all Dick could say, sobbing hard. He quickly jumped out of the sheets, his legs threatening to give way as he paced back and forth across the room.

"Calm down Dick. It was just a nightmare." Dick said, wiping his face. Dick had experienced nightmares before, but he hadn't had one that bad for a few years now, it was so unexpected, but then, so was the cause for them. When he first arrived at the Manor he had night terrors almost every night, so he would go downstairs and sleep on the armchair in front of a large open fireplace. It was one of his favourite places to slumber, Dick would look up and see the giant portrait of his parents, holding each other, their smiling faces looking down, watching over him. Bruce had it made to make Dick feel less forlorn after their death, and it made the boy more comfortable and at home. The heart-warming painting kept Dick's parents close, their happy memories alive.

But Dick would also go and sleep with Bruce when he had really bad nightmares, cuddling up in the older man's arms, made him feel safe and protected, which was amplified when Dick discovered Bruce's little Bat secret.

"I'm getting too old to sleep with Bruce, it would be weird, but…I just don't think I will be able to get back to sleep alone. It's been so long since I've had one as vivid and petrifying." Dick made up his mind; he was going to ask Bruce if he could stay in his room that night. Dick, hands still shaky, pushed open his door with a soft creak and made his way down the dimly lit hallway. He reached the tall double oak doors of Bruce's master suite and was about to knock but before he had a chance, footsteps treading wooden floorboards could be heard and the two doors gently swung open. Bruce, wearing only black silk pajama bottoms, his hair untidy and rubbing one of his eyes gently, looked down at his young ward

"Come in, I was expecting you." Bruce stepped aside and allowed Dick to enter. Dick, a little confused, crept passed, the doors closing behind him and looked up at his mentor.

"I woke you didn't I?"

"Yea, I could hear you screaming in your sleep, same nightmare?" Bruce asked.

"Mhm, Same plot, but it was so real, I haven't had one like that before." Dick lowered his head, and unable to hold back emotions any longer burst into tears once more. "I'm…sorry." Dick stammered out between sobs.

"It's alright Dick." Bruce said, trying to soothe the small boy, pulling him close into a comforting embrace. "I had only fallen asleep a few moments ago. And you can always come to me. I had nightmare for years when my parents were murdered, and every now and then I still have them. We have to live with them Dick, but I am here for you, whenever you need me, I will be here."

Dick hugged Bruce tight, he felt relief when Bruce spoke those words, Bruce would always be there, and he understood what it was like to lose ones parents, and he knew how to bring solace to Dick.

"Thanks Bruce. I don't know where I would be if you didn't take me in. You were the only one who looked up at me that night. Thank you."

"I looked up because I knew what pain you were feeling, I know how hard it is to suddenly lose the ones you love most, being in the alley, watching my mother and father die, it haunts me to this day, and I was never the same, I lost my childhood Dick, I lost any happiness and joy I had, and I didn't want you to have the same fate."

"I know Bruce." Dick wiped his tears again.

"Common, in bed, we need to get some sleep, you have school tomorrow." Bruce said, picking up the boy, carrying him further into the room, and throwing him gently on the king sized mattress. Dick crawled under the sheets, and once Bruce had climbed in next to him, snuggled up close. Bruce wrapped an arm around him and held him, Dick resting his head on Bruce's chest.

"Awkward now that I am older." Dick stated nervously. Bruce just chuckled slightly and ruffled Dicks hair.

"Your only twelve Dick, I use to sleep in my father's study each time I had a night terror till I was sixteen, Alfred would always come and sit by me, he was there for me, still is so many years later, and I will be hear no matter what age you are. You're welcome to come sleep in here whenever you need to. You've been through more than most kids go through in a life time. It's understandable."

Dick just smiled and closed his eyes, and soon, in the warmth of Bruce's love, fell asleep, and didn't wake up till morn.

Gotham City.

August 28, 06:14 EDT.

Dick woke up the next morning to a sudden bright light blinding him through his eyelids as curtains were pulled back. Dick was in Bruce's arms, the Billionaire himself stirring. Alfred hooked the curtains back and turned to face the two.

"Good morning Master Richard." Alfred addressed Dick in his usual professional manner. "Did you have a nightmare?"

"Yea, a really bad one." Dick said, yawning and stretching.

"Well I am glad you managed to get some sleep sir, and I must say, it warms my heart to see you two together like this, brings back old memories, acting so much like father and son."

"Don't go all mushy on us Alfred." Bruce grumbled, sitting himself up.

"Of course Master Wayne." Alfred laughed and began to walk out of the room. "Breakfast is ready and waiting. Get dressed and come down sir. You two Dick, I brought your school clothes from your room and laid them on the bedside table for you."

"Thank you Alfred." Quickly Dick got up and went into the ensuite to change. When he came out, Bruce was also changed and they made their way down for breakfast. When they reached the dining room, Alfred was waiting, food all set out, and morning paper in his arm.

"Paper sir?"

"Yes please Alfred." Bruce replied, taking the paper from the butler. "Thank you."

"I took the liberty of taking out the comic strip pages for you Master Dick." Alfred hand Dick a few pieces of paper with printed comics covering the pages surfaces.

"Thank you Alfred." Said Dick, taking them and flipping to his favourite one, 'Garfield.' It was an old comic, been around since before Dick was born, his parents use to read it to him, and even now, it was still so funny.

Dick ate and read his comics, and when he was finished, went up to his bathroom to prepare for school. He was already wearing his uniform, but he had to brush his teeth, and style his hair. He took no time at all and was back down stairs, out the front door, and into the white Rolls Royce. Alfred donned his drivers cap, and soon he was on his way to school. Bruce sat next to him in the car, looking out the window as the passed through the city, scouring for anything that might be amiss. Bruce and Dick often rode together, Dick would be dropped off at the front gates of Gotham Academy, and Bruce would be driven to the new Wayne tower for important meetings he had.

Soon the pulled up outside the large gold crested gates of G.A and Dick unbuckled his seatbelt stepped out of the car, door opened by Alfred.

"Enjoy your day Master Dick; I will be here at three thirty to pick you up."

"Thanks Alfred. See you later." Dick smiled up at the elderly man.

"Have a great day Dick, Do well in class and say hi to Barbra for me." Bruce said. Dick nodded and waved goodbye as he walked in through the gates and towards the main building.

"Another year, and this one feels like it will be great!'

Chapter 1: Starting on our way, Part two.

Wally West:

Central City.

August 28, 01:51 CDT.

Barry A. Residence.

"Hey Wally, turn the television off and get ready for bed buddy. You're starting at Gotham Academy tomorrow morning. It's a very important day for you." Said a tall blonde man, towering over the young lean redheaded boy.

"Awwww, common, just ten more minutes ok, please Uncle Barry? It's almost finished." Wally smiled up at his Uncle, big green eyes pleading with him. Barry melted at the sight and letting out a sigh, he gave a small nod.

"Hahaha, yea, alright kiddo, But I'll be back down in ten minutes. Why don't you go and brush your teeth now since it's the adverts." Barry suggested to his nephew.

"Ok, thank you." And Wally obediently raced to the bathroom. Wally grabbed his toothbrush and squeezed a small amount of minty toothpaste onto its bristles. He quickly shoved it into his mouth, and began to scrub his teeth in concentric circles; He scrapped his tongue with the clearer on the back of the brush, and spat into the sink. He gurgled as he thoroughly rinsed his mouth out, then after washing his brush and putting it away, he sprinted back to the couch. Wally sat there, beaming smile on his face. He loved his uncle, and for good reason. Wally, goofy smile stretched from ear to ear, lay his head back against the soft fabric of the sofa, and reminisced about the time he had discoved his beloved uncle's secret.

Uncle Barry was Wally's hero, had been for as long as Wally could remember. Even before Barry Allen had married his Aunt Iris West. You see, Wally's uncle, was the protector of central city, Wally's uncle, Barry Allen, was the 'Flash!' Wally had grown up watching Flash save people on television; he had hung posters of him all over his walls, and even had a pair of Flash underwear, which Wally still wore.

Then one day, Aunt Iris introduced Wally and his parents to her new boyfriend, Barry Allen, and they hit it off right away. Barry hung out with Wally, they played ball, went to movies, and talked, all the thing's Wally's dad was too drunk to do himself. Wally and Barry became great friends, they were so alike, and had so much in common, and Wally began to think more and more of Barry as his dad. Soon after Barry and Iris had married, Barry felt he could trust Wally completely, they were family now after all, and he had already told Iris. Since Wally was such a huge fan of the Flash, he knew it was the right thing to do, and Wally discovered the hero behind his uncle.

When Wally found out, he was ecstatic! His new uncle was his hero, the greatest man on the planet in Wally's eyes. Wally decided to spend more and more time with his uncle, in hopes of being taken on a mission with Flash. He tailed his uncle Barry around, following him on the news and papers, and asked question after question. Of course, Wally hadn't ever dreamed of what had happened when he pried too far into his uncle's secret life.

One night, while staying at his Uncles and Aunts, who had gone on a date leaving the mischievous red head alone, Wally let curiosity get the better of him, and he decided to sneak upstairs, and search through Flash's gear. His uncle kept the superhero equipment in a small draw beside his bed, and when Wally slide open the draw, his eyes gleamed with excitement and wonder, and his smile widened. Inside the small draw, sat five red rings, which, seemingly impossible, contained the 'Flash' uniform. Wally knew that a flash uniform was tightly compacted inside each ring because Barry had demonstrated it on many occasions, due to Wally's incessant begging. Carefully, Wally timidly reached out and ran a nervous finger over the ring. It was smooth and cool to the touch, seamless, and a masterpiece of ingenuity. From all the reports on the rest of the justice league members and what his uncle had shared with him, No one else in the league had something like this; Superman just wore his blue tights under his civilian clothes, a huge surprise to Wally, thinking that the man of steel wouldn't find it necessary for a secret identity. Martian Man-hunter somehow changed into his outfit by bio-morphing the structure and appearance of his cells. Wonder woman…well, apparently she didn't have a civilian identity, she almost always wore her armour, if you could call something so revealing armour. Hawk Girl was the same, but more appropriately dressed for battle. John used his ring to project his will power into the iconic and universally recognised Green Lantern Core uniform. Wally grinned when thinking of the Green Lanterns, always having to recharge their rings, kind of like how Flash always had to recharge his stomach before running. This had caused Wally to chuckle, thinking of his uncle devouring the whole refrigerator in seconds. Of course, Flash didn't have to say a really long oath every time he wanted to recharge like John. 'In Brightest Day, In Blackest Night, No evil shall escape my sigh! Let those who worship evil's might, beware my power, Green Lanterns light!' Was it necessary saying all that each time?

Wally didn't really know how the most technologically advanced and only normal Human on the team, Batman changed into his attire. But Barry assured him he had no ring. Wally guessed Batman just changed in the Batcave, wherever that was. But it must be inconvenient to travel all the way back there to change each time, so surely he had other places across Gotham city to change, perhaps more than one Batcave, and no doubt the Bat mobile came equipped with a change of outfits.

So it was safe to assume, no one else had such a cool way to change uniforms as Wally's uncle. Barry always wore a ring, wherever he went, just in case, and Wally would always admire it. Wally searched through the rest of the drawer, there was a little black key, which Barry had told Wally one day, opened a container he owned full of souvenirs from past triumphs.

As Wally's eyes scanned the draw, he noticed a small envelope. Wally picked it up. It wasn't sealed, and a small piece of paper was tucked inside. Carefully, Wally had pulled it out and unfolded it. His Jaw dropping at what he was reading. The title stated: 'S-force theory' chemical experiment 22.' Wally had been amazed at what he had just found, he held in his hands, the instructions to the scientific experiment that had turned his uncle into Flash. Barry wasn't born with his speed powers, but had acquired them after an accident at his lab.

Barry is a police scientist, working closely with Ira West, Iris's adoptive father. That was how he had been introduced to Iris, and it was love at first sight. Ira and Barry loved chemistry, they were excellent at it. They had been experimenting with many compounds and Barry thought he could alter the speed of human cell regeneration, when they had finished for the evening; he packed his gear and carefully placed the chemicals into a portable cooler to take home with him. It was late and a storm had rolled in, thunder echoing through the cityscape, heavy rain bombarding the citizens unlucky enough to be still caught outside. As Barry made his way towards his vehicle, an extremely unlikely and unfortunate event occurred, a lightning bolt, attracted to the metal lining struck the cooler containing the vials of formula. The highly unstable compounds exploded, drenching Barry in dangerous toxic substances, and sending him flying. This left Barry hospitalised and bedridden. Uncle Barry had told Wally that for a few weeks after the incident at the lab he had felt sick, and his body had begun to react strangely. Next thing his uncle knew, he had developed super speed. It took Barry time and patience to control and understand his new abilities. Ira worked with him, helping him and monitoring his progress. After hard work and training, Uncle Barry chose to use the powers for good and save those who needed help from the injustice and crime. Deciding he needed a name for himself, he took up the name Flash, after his childhood hero Jay Garrick aka 'The Flash' from the group 'Justice Society of America.' Ira helped him create and design his rings and costumes. After he had his superhero name and outfit, Flash was born.

And now, Wally held the key to unlocking his uncle's secret to super speed. The formula to the chemicals Barry had carried on the night of the storm. Wally always wished to be like Flash, and now he could. Of course, getting lightning to hit him would be difficult, but if he wanted to be a Hero like Barry, this was what had to happen. Wally was also good at chemistry; it was his favourite subject, so there should be no problem in creating the right chemical solutions that were listed on the paper. All he had to do was wait, wait for a storm, and he would follow in his uncle's footsteps.

Wally had heard the loud thud of a car door being slammed. Barry and Aunt Iris were home. As quick as Wally could go, for now, he shut the drawer and stuffed the piece of paper in his jean pocket. He rushed out of the room and down the stairs as the traditional white wooden door swung open. Uncle Barry and Aunt Iris, hand in hand, entered the house, Wally greeted them with a big innocent smile. Instantly Barry knew the little rascal had been up to something but didn't bother to find out what, he had had a wonderful night and just wanted to relax with his beautiful wife and devious nephew. Wally spent the remainder of the night watching an old horror movie on the telly, which gave him a terrible nightmare...

A few weeks later, Wally had woken up early; he had been waiting for this day. He jumped out of bed, changed into his dark grey Levi's and a yellow T-shirt, and rushed to the kitchen. He shovelled his food in his mouth, ran back upstairs and brushed. With a quick goodbye to his mother, he was soon out the door and running to school. Tonight was the night he would become a speedster, a Flash protégé, Kid Flash. He had been thinking over the name and decided on it. Barry was like his father, so when he became a superhero, Flash would be like Kid Flashes father. Kid Flash. He loved the sound of it, he mumbled it everywhere, and Barry almost overheard him, which would have blown Wally's plans apart. Tonight was the night, tonight there would be a large storm, similar to the one Barry was in when he got shocked. Tonight Wally would leave school and wait; the formula had already been concocted from chemicals acquired from the chemistry lab at school. Wally spent hours after school trying to get the formula right, many failed attempts had led to numerous explosions and an eyebrow-less red head. Luckily it had grown back after a week. Soon he had finally gotten it right. Carefully he had hidden it behind some diluted sulphuric acid, few would look there.

At 3pm the bell rang, and before it could finish, Wally was already out the double doors and out towards the old 'Central City Observatory.' He chose that place because it was abandoned six months of the year, and sat high above they city, situated upon Krono's point, the perfect place for lightning to strike. He already picked up the chemical solution during fifth hour Chemistry that day. He carried the Formula in a metal case like Barry had done, trying to get every detail right. Now he just had to wait. And he did. He waited and waited till large cumulonimbus clouds began to form. Rain fell heavily upon the city, drenching Wally in seconds, and soon what Wally was hoping for, lightning, lit up and danced across the night. Now nervous and shaky, Wally had thought about backing away, forgetting the experiment and running home. But something stopped him, reminded him why he wanted to do this. He wanted to save people, become a hero for everyone to love, he wanted love. All his life he wanted love. As Kid Flash he would receive it. Wally stood up tall and shook the case around, trying to lure in the lightning. Before Wally knew it, bright flashes of light had begun to follow Wally, chasing him around the building. A bright blue bolt came down and struck the case, sending Wally flying in an explosion of Yellow and Red chemical mess. Soaked in the formula, Wally lay unconscious on the pavement.

The next morning Wally awoke to a Red blurry face.

'Wally?' It had said. 'Wally? You alright little man?' It was Barry, Flash, wearing a worried expression.

'Ughh! Uncle? What, happened?' Wally felt beaten and bruised, head pounding and back aching. He stood up slowly and looked over to Barry.

'Your stupidity happened that's what mister. You're in so much trouble young man!' Flash had yelled, his expression changing to furious when he saw Wally was more or less ok. 'I can't believe you would do something so idiotic. What were you thinking? Were you even thinking?'

Wally quickly remembered the events of the other night, the experiment and the storm.

'I-I just wanted to be like you Uncle Barry.'

Barry's expression once again went to one of calm and concern.

'How on earth did you think it was a good idea to try to recreate the experiment Wally? It was a fluke it worked once, this could have killed you.'

'I'm sorry Uncle, I just, really want to be Kid Flash.'

'Kid Flash?' Barry asked, confused.

'My superhero name, if it worked, I don't feel any different.'

'You would name yourself Kid Flash? Awwww, I'm so flattered Wally!' Flash now smiling and hugging his nephew. 'And if the experiment worked, you will have to wait a few weeks before you will show any signs of them. Moreover, I have to keep you under strict observation and care, in case something damaging has happened to your cells.'

'You mean like side-effects?' Wally asked.

'Worse, complete cellular degeneration, you would…you would die Wally.'

Wally's eyes had grown wide of shock at that statement. He could have died, he had never considered any consequences.

'Don't worry Wally, I'll keep you under watch and if anything shows up, I'll take care of it. You'll be fine.'

'And if I get powers?'

'Then…training will begin.' Flash replied, and for the first time that morning, Wally smiled.

'Sweet. Thanks uncle Ba-I mean Flash. By the way, how did you find me?'

'Your mother called and said you hadn't come home, we all got worried and I searched the whole city for you.' Barry had said, now helping Wally climb on his back. 'Let's get you to my lab, Ira and I will get you fixed up and start some tests. Then you can rest.'

When Uncle Barry told Aunt Iris what Wally had done, she was so angry Wally couldn't hear a word anyone else said for days; he had literally gone deaf from the yelling she gave him. In turn, Wally's parents found out, Wally's Mom first showing the tiniest sign of worry before her attention went back to booze and slot machines. As for Rudolf, Wally's father, he looked so ashamed of Wally. Like he had become a disgusting monster. Not that Wally had cared; his father showed no love to Wally, both his parents openly stated how much better their lives would be without Wally. His dad beat him for being born, Wally's black eyes proof of his father's hatred. His family situation was the main reason Uncle Barry and Aunt Iris let him stay at their home six nights of the week. They didn't know about the beatings, just the verbal abuse. If Barry had found out what Rudolf had been doing, Flash would have paid a visit to the West home. But Wally still loved his Mom and Dad, hoped it would change one day, so he hid the bruising and black eyes from those who cared for him most.

More weeks past, and Wally had begun to show signs that the experiment was a complete success. In the first 48 hours, his celled had regenerated completely after the explosion, so all of his bruises were completely gone and any cuts he had healed. One week after, he couldn't control his walking speed and ended up running at five hundred miles per hour into a plaster wall, resulting in more cuts and bruises needing to be healed and a hole in the lab. Within two weeks, his appetite had grown exponentially due to his now light speed metabolism. And finally in 4 weeks, he could run two thirds Flashes speed, and even control it perfectly, though he couldn't vibrate through any walls, but his uncle had assured him it would take a while before he developed the speed his cells needed to have the ability to do so. He had begun his training and even received a Kid Flash uniform created by Ira. It was a bright yellow with red gloves and leggings. It looked so amazing that when Wally first caught site of it, he nearly fainted. It took Wally less than ten seconds to change into it and start running around the lab, a yellow flash was all Ira could see. He didn't get a cool ring like Flashes, but he got awesome running goggles and specially designed boots. Wally was over the moon, his dream had come true, He was a superhero, he had a name, Kid Flash, he had super speed like his Uncle, and he had one of the coolest superhero costumes on the planet. Life couldn't get any sweeter.

And here he was now, years later, experienced crime fighter, on the couch in Uncle Barry's home.

A sigh of relief and a yawn came from the tired redhead. His thoughts had taken up his whole ten minutes, but he didn't mind, thinking back to his triumph of becoming KF was worth it. In all honesty, he couldn't imagine life any other way.

"Wally, dude, ten minutes up. You gonna turn it off now?" Barry's voice drifting down from upstairs.

"Yes Uncle B, just turning it off now." Wally walked to the television set and flicked it off before racing up to his bed. Aunt Iris had decided since Wally stayed with them so often he should get his own room. It was a moderate size, painted yellow with a bright red feature wall, a yellow single bed pressed up against the right and back wall. He had Flash and Kid Flash posters covering the place, and shelves full of KF and Flash merchandise and souvenirs. His obsession really hadn't gone away. Even as he stripped he revealed the Flash boxers he so loved and adored. He climbed into bed and his Uncle and Aunt entered the room.

"Good night Wally." His Aunt came over and placed a kiss on his forehead. He loved her kisses, but would never admit it. His Uncle came up to him next.

"G'night Wal-man, sleep tight." He leaned over to imitate Iris, but Wally pushed his face away and the both broke out laughing. 'No kiss for your Uncle eh, fine, break my heart. See you in the morning Buddy.' Barry chuckled. He walked out with Iris closing the bedroom door. As soon as it closed, Wally drifted off to sleep.

Gotham City.

August 28, 07:22 EDT.

The ride to Gotham was a long and tedious one. Uncle Barry and Aunt Iris woke Wally up to tell him that today they would be traveling to Gotham like a normal family, so no quick five minute run. Instead Wally faced a three hour car ride. Wally hated cars; they were slow, noisy, gas burning, polluting, dangerous things. He preferred running by far. Barry told Wally that it wasn't every day, just this once, so Wally could live with it. Wally was in his new uniform, a black jacket with gold stitching, black trousers, and black dress shoes. It felt like a suit, something a right posh spoilt kid would wear. It made Wally slightly uncomfortable. After what seemed like forever, after nothing by rolling hills and shades of green, they reached Gotham. Wally had to admit, it was spectacular, but strangely ominous. It just had a dark impression about it. As they drove over the city bridge, Wally could see many buildings, some extremely tall and modern ones, others old short apartment blocks.

What caught Wally's eye was the old tower in the distance. It seemed old and well designed, some sort of construction or renovation taking place on what looked like a glass observation dome. They continued their drive for another twenty minutes, until they pulled up in front of a large stone castle like structure. A pair of gold gates, open, allowing students to enter the grounds. A sign beside them bearing the words; 'Gotham Academy, Entrance.'

Wally quickly got out of the car and looked around to take in the beauty of G.A. He was breathless; the grass was well cut, each student wore a similar Black blazer with 'G.A' stitched in golden cotton. The building was clean and in perfect condition. There wasn't a trace of litter anywhere.

"We don't want to embarrass you on your first day buddy, so we're going to leave now, saying hello to an old friend of mine. We'll be back to pick you up at three-thirty ok."

Barry said, leaning out the window from the driver's seat.

"Good-bye Wally, have a wonderful time at your new school and make lots of new friends." Aunt Iris added.

Wally buried his head in His hands.

'This is them not embarrassing me?'

"Yea, thanks Uncle Barry and Aunt Iris, See you at three thirty." He waved goodbye as they drove away. Leaving Wally alone to face whatever it was that Gotham Academy would throw at him.

Wally turned on the spot quite abruptly, eyes glued to the magnificent school building as he walked through the gates, bumping into someone as he did. The red head and the fellow victim of circumstance fell onto the pavement. Wally looked up to see bright blue pools staring back at him.

"S-sorry. I didn't watch where I was going, my bad dude." Wally mumbled out, getting up and offering a hand to the other boy.

"No problem man. New here?" The boy asked, accepting Wallys hand, then brushed himself off.

"Yea, how'd you know?" Wally said, unable to keep his eyes off the smaller kid.

"New kids stare at the building and knock people over." The boy stated, chuckling as he did. His chuckle melted Wally's heart; it was by far the cutest and most amazing thing Wally had ever heard. This boy was beautiful too. He hair was long dark and silky, his face was innocent and boyish, his eyes though, they were deep oceans of blue passion, shimmering in the sunlight. It was a sight to behold.

"What's your name?" The boy asked.

"Wally. Wally West."

"My name's Bond, James Bond." The boy sniggered. Wally laughed at the joke, so this kid was funny, cool. The raven haired boy held out his hand.

"Nice to meet you Wally West. My name is Richard, Richard Grayson."

End of Chapter 1.

(Authors note: Hope you all liked it, from here on in it's mainly going to be from Wally's or Dick's point of Views. This was mainly just to give background information and set up the story so forgive me if it's badly written. Um…review kindly and thank you for reading. Btw, the format and font etc was changed from what it was meant to be when I uploaded this, but if you would like to know what it was supposed to look like, I will email you the .doc and you can open it in word and see what I intended it to look like. But the writing is the same, though the spacing in a little different on here, again it changed when placed it on this site. Its 's fault hahaha. I really cool fonts too, oh well. Anyway, thanks again for reading, Will upload chapter 2 soon. )