"If you people can't see the potential risk of an out of control Justice League then I don't need to wait for a vote, I don't belong up here."
That was almost 5 years ago now and that made it all the more uncomfortable for Bruce to be back on the Watchtower. He'd called a meeting with the other founders, they would find out soon enough anyway, but he felt an obligation to tell them himself. As he walked through the halls of the space station he saw almost every other hero move out if his way, they all feared the legend of the Batman but perhaps today more than ever. Since leaving the League, Bruce had spent extra time reinforcing his myth, making most people believe he was more than just a man in a bat-costume, it was all theatrics. That was all that Batman was in the end, all that he was, just smoke and mirrors.
The metals doors to the founders room slid open for him as he approached, the computer recognising the override code in his belt, giving him access to every part of the station. Sat around the circular table was each of the founders; Superman, Wonder Woman, The Flash, Green Lantern, J'onn J'onzz and Hawkgirl. The six fell silent when he walked in, each of them knowing what he was going through, and by the look in her eyes Diana was already anticipating what he was about to say. Bruce stopped behind the chair he used to sit at, he let out a heavy breath.
"I called you all here for one reason, you'd all find out soon enough but I owe it to you to tell you first. As of tonight, I'm...going into retirement."
Flash looked more shocked than anyone, Bruce had expected that, the others gave him sympathetic nods, none of them wanting to be the first to speak. Clark stood up from his chair and took a step forward, offering his hand which, surprisingly out of character, the Batman shook.
"Good luck, Bruce."
Turning to face the others Bruce nodded.
"I know we may have all had differences at one time or another, but it was an honour to serve with you."
With lighting speed Barry was at Bruce's side.
"Hug me Allen and I'll break more bones than you knew you had."
With a look of amusement, and a well masked fear, the Flash shook Batman's hand.
"An honour serving with you too."
With that, Bruce turned and left. Not wanting to risk anymore goodbyes.
That night The Batman was out on patrol one last time, he fought with exceptional force, everyone last criminal out on the streets was thrown in GCPD lockup. The next morning Bruce Wayne was going to make a significant investment in building a more secure prison for Gotham's criminal class.
4 o'clock in the morning and the first hint of sun light peaked over the horizon, waking slowly onto the roof of the GCPD building Bruce saw Jim Gordon. The older man turned to face him.
"You know he hasn't stopped talking about it, I didn't want to believe him at first but well...I'm sor..."
"This is the end Jim," Bruce cut over the Commissioner "this is the last time...we meet."
"It's really over?" Jim relied, somewhat amazed.
"Goodbye Jim."
Turning Batman walked away, it was the first time Jim had seen him in the sunlight, maybe it really was time.
A/N: leave a review, it always helps
