Never would I have thought my life would end this way...

Students, staff, family members and friends were gathered in the inner 'U' of Gotham State University. The sun was high, the grass was overbearingly green, and the sky was clear. If not for a single grey cloud in the distance, the scenery would have been too perfect to be true.

Dr. Long, one of the heads of the Psychology Department, made his way to the stage, a thick envelope in hand. He cleared his throat and spoke of The Governor's Award, the most prestigious award a student can get from GSU. In fact, this was one of three reasons for which Harleen decided to leave Brooklyn for Gotham.

"The candidates for The Governor's Award are," announced Dr. Long. "Holly Welkins for her work on bee pheromones and human behaviour." The crowd kindly applauded. "Denzel Lowry-Grant for his work on hereditary plant toxins." The applause continued, not changing in rhythm nor in tone. Harleen hoped with all her might that she would get nominated. Her work needed the recognition it deserved. Her heart beat fast. She refused to breathe. "And last but not least, Harleen Francis Quinzel for her work on love, crime and social norm." Harleen sighed with relief.

For the past few months, under the supervision of Dr. Markus and Dr. Sterano, Harleen had studied a maniac that went by the name of 'The Joker'. Assuming he had been misdiagnosed by his former psychiatrist, Harleen was determined to find out why he acted the way he did. Despite the fact that the Joker attempted to kill Harleen on several occasions, she remained by his side, studying him. Her work was more than excellent, and subject to jealousy.

"And the Governor's Award goes to," trailed Dr. Long's voice. The anxiety grew among the crowd. All candidates were worthy of the award, but for reasons that greatly differed. "Harleen Francis Quinzel for her work on love, crime and social norm."

Harleen's jaw dropped. She couldn't believe it. Her body lifted itself from her seat and walked towards the stage. It was only when she reached the microphone that she regained consciousness of her own body. The three heads of the Psychology Department had joined her on stage. Dr. Long put a medal around her neck, Dr. Markus gave her a certificate, and Dr. Carlyle, a professor in criminal psychology, handed her a small plate with her name and the Governor's Award written on it. Harleen was speechless.

She heard whispers.

"That's the one who slept with all the professors." "Look, her foundation is three shades lighter than her regular skin colour." "She's blonde, she can't win this award." "Love, crime and social norm? Yeah right." "She doesn't even look smart." "This is a joke, right?"

Harleen's smile slowly faded away. This was supposed to be the happiest moment of her life. Why wasn't anyone sharing it with her?

"Harleen, would you care to say a few words?" came Dr. Long's voice.

Harleen was fazed. Tears dropped from her eyes, bringing with them her eyeliner. They left grey streaks on their way down. She tried wiping them away with the palms of her hands, but that only gave her panda eyes.

"Harleen, are you okay?" Dr. Long asked.

Her peers were laughing. Or so she thought.

She didn't deserve this ridicule. She was the Governor's Award winner. She should be treated with respect, the same respect the Joker treated her with. It was time.

"Harl-"

"My name is Harley Quinn," she stated as she removed her robe, exposing the several sticks of dynamite attached to her waist.

HAHAHAHAHA