II
Washington, DC -
The Next Day. . .
Lois Lane sat eagerly in the front row seat of the press room, notepad sitting absentmindedly on her lap and her recorder dangling loosely on the front pocket of her jacket. Her partner, Jimmy Olsen, sat next to her, not exactly as excited as she was but nonetheless prepared for the upcoming interview with the Justice League and the US Army General, Sam Lane, who was to represent and answer for the government. Currently, the press room was overflowing with reporters, which of whom were hustling to prepare for the brief interview on the topic of the new flying figure soaring not only in Metropolis but seemingly all over the world.
"You alright, Lois?" Jimmy asked, checking his camera. He watched as the leg not holding up the notepad bounce up and down with barely containable energy.
Looking away from the door on which both the Justice League and General Lane were to enter, she turned towards him for a brief moment. "Yeah . . . Yeah, why do you ask?"
"Well," He began, setting his camera down to the side so he could address her directly," It's nine in the morning and you haven't had one cup of coffee yet you have the energy of a hyperactive child. You've seen the Justice League a thousand times, interviewed them a dozen. What's so special about today? Is it your dad?"
"Jimmy –," She started but was interrupted when Richard White practically ran towards the seat next to Jimmy, fighting through crowds of reporters, journalist and news specialist. He practically beamed when he saw the empty chair next to Jimmy and carefully lifted the camera as to not sit on it. He put his bag down in front of him, adjusted his tie, and ran a hair through his combed hair.
"Hey, guys, what's going on?" He asked in a rushed, out of breath tone.
"They're holding a brief meeting with the Senator in the back to clarify some things and no doubt come up with some lies for us to spread," Lois answered, leaning back in her chair with a huff, but not before sending one final glance towards Jimmy who was busy toying with the camera. He pretended not to feel her gaze on the side of his face.
"It'll be better than nothing which is all we've gotten," He commented, reaching into his bag only to bring out a recorder and notepad. He reached for the pen in his left breast pocket and began to go over the questions he was meaning to ask, writing down small notes on the side if something came to mind.
"Excuse me, ladies and gentleman, please take your seats. The conference will start momentarily."
Lois breathed in, readying herself and ignored all the hustling behind her. People were practically racing to their seats and quickly began to prepare for the meeting, eliminating unnecessary questions and prioritizing the few questions they knew they'd be able to ask.
"Jimmy." Lois said, her eyes never leaving the stage as to which the Justice League and her father were to grace moments later.
He perked up. "Yes?"
"Stay out of my personal life and work on focusing your camera shots."
He nodded slowly with a sour expression on his face, his heart beginning to clench unnaturally in his chest.
. . . . .
Minutes Earlier. . .
"So you mean to tell me neither parties knew of this man?"
Batman who was standing tall at the forefront, face clear of any signs of intimidation or pride, nodded in response to the question. Wonder Woman, Green Arrow, Cyborg, Green Lantern, Flash, the Martian Manhunter, and Black Canary stood almost lifelessly behind him but never straying from profession. The rest of the League had been assigned to patrol from the Tower orbiting Earth.
"No, Senator Kelly, we did not," General Lane finally answers.
He nods, flipping through multiple papers before addressing them once more. "The public doesn't know what to feel about this new . . . Development; whether to fear him or love him. Seeing that public safety is one of our highest priorities I suggest you think of a solution quickly. General Lane has already told me of his task force to find and arrest him. What of you, Justice League?"
"Nothing." Batman responded much to the Senator's surprise. The members of the League stood by him, never wavering from their positions, showing no doubt in their decision.
"And why's that?"
"Haven't you heard the slogan Senator?" Batman asked, his demeanor never changing from the indifference written on his face. "Don't poke a sleeping bear."
"We don't know who this guy is, Senator. Yes, he may have managed to take down the Injustice League but what if one day he decides to turn those powers on us, the people?" The General asks, narrowing his eyes at the Batman. He seemingly wasn't fazed.
Wonder Woman responded, "Then we'll handle it, General. Like we always do."
"Like you handled the Injustice League?" The General shot back and all the League members turned towards him, professional stances gone and menacing glares in place. Steve placed a careful hand on the General to back off for a bit. He simply shrugged it off.
"Maybe next time they show up we'll call you. Let's see how that plays out, General," The Green Lantern said, earning a slight elbow from Black Canary.
"Enough!" The Senator demanded, gathering the attention," The General has a point. The last time the Justice League made an appearance they almost died. What would've happened then would've been beyond our hands. Alas, the League also has a point. Majority of the battles we have fought have been won with the aid of the League and we were blessed in such a situation to have them or all would've been lost. I trust the Justice League's judgement so seeing that as it is . . . I terminate your task force and your bounty, General."
"You cannot do that, Senator." The General objected, voice rising in anger.
"I can and I just did," The Senator rose from his seat and began to pack his things," Have a good day."
. . . . .
Present Time. . .
The room practically went in uproar when the Justice League followed by a disgruntled General Lane and Steve Trevor stepped out on stage. They took their respective places, the League on one side while General Lane and Steve on the other. A podium with a small microphone sat in front of all of them at a respective distance. Cameras snapped furiously at them and questions were tumbling out of everyone's mouth at a face pace. Batman stood in the middle of his team, unfazed whilst some of the League members winced slightly from the onslaught. Green Arrow and Wonder Woman, which of whose secret identities were used to such publicity, stood alongside Batman, mirroring his clear and set features.
"Please, sit down. All of your questions will be answered shortly," An announcer stated and at that the crowd began to calm. As soon as the room began to quiet down the announcer continued. "Now, we can begin . . . You, there, you're first."
"Lois Lane, Daily Planet. My question is directed towards General Lane," She began, looking down at her notes, missing the small glare sent her way by her father. "Is this new flying figure an experiment of the government? CIA, FBI . . . The military? Special Forces? Are they connected in any way?"
General Sam Lane stepped up towards the podium, his mustache turned up in slight irritation," No, the government or any of the organizations you just listed had no idea that this man existed. The archives show that we have never heard or encountered this being. He is, like to you, an anomaly."
She turned her recorder towards the adjacent group," And what about you, Justice League, did you know of this man?"
Batman answered with a simple," No."
"Next question," The Announcer spoke up and noticed a hand farther into the crowd. He waved towards the reporter, prompting the other journalist and reporters to silence.
"Catherine Grant. Reporter. Question is directed towards both. What do you plan on doing with this flying savior?" The female spoke with as much confidence and strength as the previous reporter, Lois Lane.
Seeing as Batman was already standing in front of the microphone, he answered, "Until he shows any signs of violence towards innocent civilians, we shall not bother him or provoke him by any means."
General Lane held back rolling his eyes and leant forward, not even bothering to step forward, he quickly muttered an unprofessional, "What he said."
Deciding not to dwindle on the subject, the Announcer continued. "Next question . . . You there, next to Miss Lane."
"Hi, thank you. Richard White, also from the Daily Planet. My question is addressed towards both parties. Do you have any idea who he is? Where he comes from? It's not every day that a savior falls from the sky," Richard asked, recorder aimed towards the middle of both podiums. He looked on eagerly, waiting desperately for an answer. Beside him, Jimmy Olsen took his time snapping pictures much to Lois' annoyance. Inside, he took it as a small victory.
Batman nodded towards the General to answer first. The General sighed and stepped forward once more. "No. We have no idea who this man is or where he comes from."
The General stepped back as Wonder Woman stepped forwards, looking Richard dead in his eye as she began to answer. "We believe that-"
Suddenly, she could feel his eyes on her, those blue cerulean eyes watching her intently and she hesitated, her words catching in her throat. Yes, there were dozens of possibly blue eyes watching her but his were different. As to what made them so different, she'd ponder later but for now she'd focus on finding them. Her eyes stole away from Mr. White for a moment and began to scan the crowd thoroughly. He was here and somehow she knew it. Her heightened senses tried desperately to zero in on him, where he was located in the vast crowd but there were too many people, too many smells, and heartbeats. She might not have been able to see him but she knew for a fact he was there, in the crowd. He was waiting for her answer, as were the others, but he was waiting solely to see if she'd expose him. Apparently, she hadn't earned that sort of trust from him. Threatening him with exposure was probably what triggered it. Looking towards J'onn, she conveyed her thoughts to him, who, in return, nodded. Immediately, the Martian Manhunter, created a mental link throughout them all.
Is he in here? He asked.
She nodded. Yes.
Batman tilted his head and immediately looked over the crowd as to where the source was. We wait to see if he makes a move. Continue to act accordingly.
"Wonder Woman?" Richard inquired, waiting patiently for her to answer and scooting closer to the edge of the seat.
With one final glance through the crowd, she turned her attention back towards the reporter. "Like General Lane, we do not know who he is. And all we can hope for is that he continues to stay on our side. . ."
With that the Justice League along with General Lane and Colonel Trevor were guided off stage and behind the curtains of the auditorium. From there they could hear the shouts and protest of reporters and journalist, begging for more answers, answers they didn't have. General Lane was noticeably disappointed and slightly embarrassed with the lack of information they held and took a seat in the corner of the room, pulling a large cigar from his pocket and lighting it. He leant back in the chair and began to contemplate what he'd do now since the Senate shot down his idea to hunt down the flying anomaly. Cyborg and J'onn took a break away, stealing from the group to check in on the Watchtower where the Shayera and Zatanna were on watch, doing only God knows what. The Batman was nowhere to be seen. Green Arrow, Green Lantern and Black Canary took to the refreshments that lie on a table no farther than a few feet away from them. Wonder Woman made to go get a bottle of water when she was intercepted by Steve. He grasped her arm in a professional manner, still conscious of the reporters in the other room. She turned towards him, eyes flicking briefly to the hand that held her elbow and the crowd of info hungry reporters no less than twenty-five feet away.
"Can we talk?" He asks cautiously, wary of the General's eyes on him and motions with his other hand towards an empty hallway.
Shooting one last glance at her fellow teammates, she nods. He doesn't take her hand but she watches as he fights the urge, his hand moving slightly towards her but immediately shoving itself in his pocket. Flexing her own hands, she follows behind him into the quiet and hollow hallways. She watches as he pauses, shoulders tense as he turns towards her. He waits a moment and makes sure to put a respectable distance between the two of them.
"You alright?" He turns towards her, one hand still shoved in his pocket and the other lying against his leg. "You kind of froze up back there."
"Yes, Steve, I'm fine." She gave him a small smile of reassurance. "You honestly need not to worry about me as much as you do. Need I remind you that I am Wonder Woman, Princess of Themyscira, blessed by the Gods and Goddesses of Olympus?"
He chuckled softly and shook his head, the smile never falling from his face. "No . . . I am fully aware. The tiara usually gives it away."
She smiles in response and he immediately beams.
"That's not the only thing I wanted to say," He continued, absentmindedly rubbing his jaw with a hand he pulled out of his pocket. "I wanted to thank you for the wonderful time last night. Hadn't had fun like that in a while . . ."
"I, as well. It was nice to get out of a Watchtower for a while nonetheless the Embassy. I hope we get another opportunity to do it again."
"Speaking of . . . How about next week? There's the Ambassador's Charity Ball. I would be honored if you'd go as my date . . .," A teasing smile graced his features.
"I'm sorry Colonel Trevor but aren't you dating Diana Prince?" She asked, her face contorting to something of confusion. "It would be horribly rude for me to go with you when you already have a woman who I am sure is willing to go as your date."
At that he began to stutter, trying half-heartedly to hide the amused smile. " Oh, yes, right. Of course. Please forgive my ignorance, Wonder Woman."
"All is forgiven." She smiled in spite of herself. "If it's worth any consolation . . . I have a feeling she'll say yes."
He smiled brightly. "I hope so."
Alas, before their conversation could continue, Steve's phone rang. He quickly apologizes before digging into his back pocket for the device. Taking one quick look at the Caller ID, he slides the flashing green icon to the right before bringing it up to his ear and answering curtly. "Colonel Steve Trevor."
Wonder Woman took a hesitant step back, trying half-heartedly to limit her senses and give him his privacy but faltered when she heard something on the other end of the line.
"Good morning, Colonel. This is Major William Banks. I hate to interrupt whatever business you were attending to, sir, but last night we recorded drastic disturbances in the atmosphere, 39.0119° N, 98.4842° W."
Steve's brows furrowed for a moment indicating that he was in thought before shaking his head. "That's over Kansas. Have you contacted Air Force General Fife?"
"Yes, sir. He said they had no flights scheduled that night. There was a severe thunderstorm and all scheduling was canceled or null. Recordings show that this anomaly was matching speeds faster than any birds we have. Whatever it was came into contact with the ground at one point, creating a severity of 5.5. Any other recordings or data we've received if you'd wish to know would require you to come in."
Steve breathed," I'll be there."
Removing the phone from his ear, he hung up and quickly shoved the phone into his back pocket before turning towards the woman adjacent to him.
"I have to go. They need me at base."
She nodded, already knowing they'd call him and tried to keep the obviousness from her face. She knew what those disturbances were simply because she was the cause of it, whether triggering a man with immense power or simply engaging in battle with him. Either way, she was there and she knew what happened. What caused an earthquake severity of 5.5 and which likely defied the speed of sound. She questioned whether to tell Steve but, of course, why would she? She was fond of him, she held a special place for him in her heart but she couldn't associate those factors into the equation. Right or wrong, she was divided. Steve was a great man, morals high but when it came to this man, this Clark Kent, she pondered his reaction. She knew from experience that Steve was a kind man and paid mercy where mercy was due. She also knew that he wasn't the highest ranking officer and said officer sat few feet away, with an already boiling hatred and ignorance towards Clark. General Lane had power, command over Steve and Steve's army. If given the order to capture and cage, would Steve following willingly like the soldier he was, or follow his heart in what's right and wrong. Still, looking over to where General Lane sat, smoking an overly large cigar between his bottom lip and the gray freckled mustache that rested on his top lip, she sighed and pursed her lips. Until she knew more, an excuse she wished to compel herself with but the lasso prohibited, she would keep her mouth closed.
Steve, oblivious to her raging thoughts, shot a glance at all the people in the open area not only fifty feet from them but his gaze landed pointedly at the lax looking Sam Lane. Everyone on the League knew her romantic affiliations with Colonel Trevor, along with her identity so technically, the only person they were hiding from was already suspicious. She could tell he was conflicted and to ease him, she placed a hand on his and squeezed before walking away.
"I'll call you tonight." He said and with that, they separated. Steve marched professionally over to General Lane and they both exited, leaving through the back where a beige hummer waited for them. Wonder Woman made her way towards her teammates, who were all preparing to transport back to the tower. Batman stood in the middle, his cape draped across him in a way that made it look like he had no body and just a head with long pointed ears. He watched her approach, his steely eyes narrowed and focused.
"I have to return to Gotham. My com will be on, if I'm needed." He spoke, his voice betraying nothing as to why he was needed there but nonetheless, they nodded.
Cyborg stepped up; large metal hands on his hips and the Flash stood buoyantly beside him. "Flash and I are free. Need any help while you're there?"
"No but you can join Shayera and Zatanna at the tower." The two young heroes nodded happily, bright and energetic smiles on their faces.
Green Lantern took few steps forward, his mildly large arms over his flexing green chest. "John called. I am needed at Oa but my com will be on."
Both Canary and Green Arrow made themselves known. "We're going to go check in at Starling. Other than that we'll be at the Watchtower."
"I am needed elsewhere." J'onn spoke, his cape fluttering behind him.
"I, as well, am needed at the Embassy." Wonder Woman spoke, looking them all in the eye respectively. "If you need me I will be available. I expect to see you all tomorrow morning at the tower. Anything else?"
They all shook their heads in response. At that, they all went their separate ways.
. . . . .
Maragogi, Brazil –
Later That Day. . .
The two Kent brothers had left a day after the incident on the farm with the obvious intent of returning soon. Things were getting too heated and they needed to back off for a while. Before they left, they had transferred their mother to a hospital that could watch her for a couple days. It costs them the little money they had but it was worth it. It was a nice place though. Their mother definitely needed the time out. And in the end no one would know. If the Justice League returned to look for them they'd get nothing as to their whereabouts. Arthur had hid all their valuables and all the items that could connect to them at the bottom of the lake in a tightly sealed container. It had all taken six hours to accomplish before they left towards the Atlantic. With the help of Arthur's girlfriend, wife, whatever the hell she was to him, they were able to score a small apartment above a bar on the beaches of Maragogi; which led them to their current predicament, which was Arthur downing bottle after bottle of beer and Clark chilling leisurely next to him while sipping on a drink that had absolutely no effect on him. It tasted good nonetheless.
The TV which was propped up in the corner of the room was spewing news in another language. Clark had quickly translated the language and looked on quietly, occasionally looking at the other patrons who were enjoying themselves immensely. Arthur looked on as well, not nearly as immersed as his brother but catching on when something caught his interest.
Picking up his tumbler, Clark nodded towards the door. "Your wife's here with her groupies."
"Shut up." Arthur shot him a look before turning towards the door to indeed see his wife with her band of followers, all dressed in civilian clothing and not in Atlantian garb. He easily recognized them to be some of Atlantis' Guardians sent to the land to protect her of course. Not that she actually needed protection. She was deadly all on her own.
"Orin, my love," Was her greeting when she saw him, her eyes gleaming with longing.
Arthur all but drunkenly galloped towards her, his long legs practically bounding towards her. Clark smiled slightly as the King of Atlantis tripped over a table or two trying to reach his wife. Patrons of the bar glanced briefly towards him before going back to their own business. Arthur didn't care if he was making a fool of himself. He hadn't seen his wife for months. It was an understandable reaction. Finally, once the he reached her, he wrapped her up in the biggest and tightest hug, spinning around for emphasis on how much he missed her. At the sight of their King, the Atlantis' Guardians bowed for a brief moment, acknowledging their King but all the while not drawing too much attention to themselves.
"How are you, my dear?" Mera asked, laughing for a moment while she was spun wildly in the air by her husband. She kissed his forehead and made her way down to his lips. Arthur smiled when he finally felt her lips. He missed the taste of the ocean.
After a good minute or two, he reluctantly broke it off, content with leaning his forehead against hers, "I'm fantastic now that you're in my arms."
"Hmm," She sighed, breathing in his scent while she brushed his long locks out of his face, "It's been so long."
He laughed heartedly with a bright smile. "I come to see you once a month, my love."
"Too long," She murmured before letting her lips capture his again. He never let her go, not even when he slowly began to walk back to the table he was occupying a few minutes earlier. Clark watched the two with slight humor as they never came up for breath. Being the King and Queen of a lost city underwater has its advantages. These two made perfect use of them, Clark mused, watching Arthur lower himself down without even looking to seat the both of them. Clark, seeing that there wasn't a chair beneath him, kicked one underneath them so they wouldn't fall. Arthur, still in his lip lock, gave him a thumbs up.
He shook his head, grabbing for his tumbler.
. . . . .
London, England – Themysciran Embassy
Meanwhile. . .
Diana sighed, opening the door to her office, placing her coat on the back of a chair, and walking further into the room. She most definitely did not feel like doing paperwork all day. She had taken the day off yesterday to spend more time with Steve which was amazing but the paperwork seems to have piled up, leaving a large stack of unopened files on her desk either dealing with international business, DOMA, or interviews. No one else could do it, she kept telling herself. She had titles and along with that came responsibilities; responsibilities that she needed as of right now to get to. Alas, her mind couldn't stop wandering to Steve and all the time that they've spent with each other over the past couple of days. After their a couple days ago, he had asked her if she's like to go to the park one day which she happily agreed to. That one day was yesterday and it had been very eventful. They had walked for most of their time there, engaging in small talk and admiring the children playing in the grass, smiling every now and then when one had stumbled in such an adorable way. Afterwards he had taken her to the theater to see a play. It was utterly delightful. She had enjoyed herself fairly well and told him all the details of her enjoyment on their way to the restaurant. It was of the fancy variety, very expensive. When dinner was over he offered to walk her back to the embassy which she didn't hesitate in agreeing to. Along the way they had continued to talk, never bringing up anything work related. Just talking about anything and everything. Once they arrived at the Embassy, he gave her a small kiss on her hand. Some part of her had desired something more and before she knew it she had tugged on his suit jacket and brought his lips to hers. Unlike their other slow kisses, that one was a bit passionate and as her hands found his neck she made sure to watch her strength. She pulled away first and watched with a smile as he tried to gather his bearings. After pulling himself together he whispered a goodnight to her before leaving.
She knew it wasn't love, not yet at least, but with every passing second she felt herself falling.
"Good afternoon, Miss Prince." Diana was abruptly brought out of her thoughts when Julia, her assistant, walked into the room. Gathering her reigns, Diana smoothed down her skirt and took a breath. Back to reality.
"Afternoon, Julia." She smiled politely towards her.
"I'm here to catch you up on what you missed yesterday," Diana nodded. Julia continued, "First up are Bruce Wayne and Oliver Queen. You have brunch with them this weekend at Hi-Collar. This week we are to host the charity gala. The invites have already been sent. Your mother also sent word that she'll be visiting for a week or two. We've also received an invite to an Art Opening and a Magic Show, the latter being hosted by a Miss Zatanna Zatara. . ."
Diana was more than surprised in the least. Bruce, Oliver, her mother, and Zatanna all in the same week. That was going to be more than interesting. Nodding, she turned away from Julia, seeing that as all.
"There was also a note left for you yesterday."
"From whom?" Diana began to make her way towards her desk, head down while checking the emails she had received on her phone.
"Uh," Julia was hesitant and looked at the note once more, remembering the exact moment she was given it," He said you knew him by the name 'Insufferable Caveman'."
She froze.
. . . . .
Elsewhere. . .
It seemed like hours before they separated but turned out to be only five minutes. When they did separate, Mera's eyes found Clark's who was sitting casually across from them, feet propped on the table and a halfway empty tumbler dangling loosely in his hand.
"Kal," She acknowledged, hands sliding down Arthur's body as she moved to her own seat. Arthur gave her a quick kiss on the cheek before returning his attention to the whole table and not just Mera. He watched with the gaze of a King as the Atlantis' Guardians took a seat elsewhere in the bar, always keeping an eye on their Queen.
Clark's brow rose at the use of his birth name. It wasn't the first time she had used it. He had almost forgotten she didn't like to use fake names. Give her one and she'd stick to it. It was odd at first when she called Arthur, Orin and he, Kal but he'd eventually gotten used to it. They were in hiding for so long he almost didn't remember that they didn't have to hide from her.
"Your Majesty," He greeted in response, bowing his head slightly. "How fairs the sea?"
It wasn't like they didn't like each other. They did but sometimes it was jokingly tense between them. Mera had disliked Clark for the first couple of months she knew him, only because he was another part of Arthur's life that she wasn't a part of. Clark had felt the same; he had almost hated her because she was part of Arthur's life that he was barely acquainted with. It took them awhile to understand it but when the time did come they came towards a truce for Arthur's sake. They didn't want to split him down the middle; they wanted him to be happy. The consensus they came to lasted ever since and Clark made the sister he never had. Mera felt the same, treating him as if he was the annoying younger brother she never had as well. She had taught him how to hold his breath for an exceptionally long time, far beyond his own unnatural capacity. In return, he had dug out an extra part of the lake behind the barn for her when she came over. It wasn't often though; she had her royal duties, a lot at that since Arthur wasn't there to aid her. He promised her though, that he'd one day come to rule Atlantis with her but not while their mother in such a state. Mera had understood and never questioned his decision.
"It fairs well," She smirked, running a hand through her wild red hair before leaning back in her chair, placing one muscular leg over the other. "Tell me of the skies, Kal-El."
A semblance of a smile fights its way across his lips before he breathes in, as if he was floating in them in that exact moment, "Clear and free, as always."
They both stood with a laugh erupting from the both of them and hugged from either side the table. He hugs her tightly and he receives almost the same amount of strength from her. She was one of the few people he didn't have to hold his strength back from which was part of the reason he missed her so. If this was any ordinary human he could've broken their spine. Mera will probably just walk away with a slight bruise.
"I'm surprised you're not taking to them," She said, the bright smile never leaving her face as they both returned to their seats. Once doing so, Arthur wraps his arm around her, savoring every moment he had with his Queen. "Arthur told me of your . . . Heroics."
"Rao, not this again," Clark sighed with irritation. With two fingers, he motions for the bartender to get him another drink.
Watching his reaction, she laughs, "Do not worry, I'm not here to scold you on it . . . Although, I am here to scold you on this Wonder Woman you haven't told me of. Arthur says you and her hashed it out in the forestry."
"Playing the protective sister card, are you?" Clark avoids and shoots a glare towards Arthur who just shrugs in amusement. "And besides it was yesterday, I've been busy."
"You could've told me over the phone on your way here." She tilts her head. Arthur watches on, sipping at the large cup of beer.
He rolls his eyes before leaning back in his own chair, jaw set with agitation. He already had Arthur on his ass about it, now it was her and she was so much worse. Clark had learned this the hard way when he had started to date Lana and didn't tell her about it. She had his ass lapping in the water.
Running a frustrated hand through his messy hair, he muttered angrily under his breath.
"It escaped my mind at the time."
. . . . .
Meanwhile. . .
Princess,
Must be a very important date for you to forget these. . .
She looked towards her desk to see her shield and sword, sitting in her chair, cleaned and glimmering in the afternoon sun. Her sword sat in the straps of her shield which lie against the arm rest in her chair. Slightly flabbergasted, she looks back towards the note.
-Insufferable Caveman
P.S. Thank you, for what you did
Diana could only stand there, frozen. She could only imagine blue eyes staring back at her with intensity and sincerity. It was like she was there with him again, her hand seeming so small being held between both of his. She could remember the warmth of his body, the coolness of his breath, and the strength that he held. She shook her head, trying desperately to remove him from her mind. He was still there, with those piercing blue eyes. Sighing, she leant against her desk.
"Excuse me, Miss Prince," Julia asked, diverting Diana's attention towards her," Is this 'Insufferable Caveman' someone we have to worry about?"
Diana shook her head. "Maybe not you . . . But I, on the other hand."
. . . . .
Maragogi, Brazil –
Meanwhile. . .
His lips curved up in the slightest.
". . .I, on the other hand."
She was an anomaly to him. Of course, he saw her from a certain perspective. He knew her face, all of them: the Diplomat, the Princess, and Wonder Woman but that meant nothing if he didn't know her. Her views on the 'Patriarch's World', what she sought in the world, what she enjoyed in life, why did she even want to become a hero. He was curious and he knew that this certain curiosity was dangerous. It concerned him. He looked towards Arthur, who was watching the news and chatting with Mera. She had successfully stolen his beer before he was forced to order another one. Clark sighed, leaning back in his chair, his foot propped up on the chair next to him. They'd been hiding for over ten years, successfully at that. Ever since that one incident they'd gotten better about hiding their tracks, don't leave anything personal behind, only talk to someone if you need to but never tell them any details. That's what kept them alive this whole time, those two little simple rules. Alas, then she arrived. Rao, she made everything all the more complicated. He wasn't going to deny that he had felt connected to her in a way, beyond simple attraction. There was something about her, he pondered. Ever since Lana, he promised never again. He closed his eyes at the memory, trying and succeeding at shaking it from his thoughts. But her, what was it about her that has him in such disarray, such a state that she made him question all the tough decisions that he'd made thus far? She made it seem like he had a choice. He kept telling himself that she was just some naïve princess who didn't know struggle but those thoughts never stuck. Only thing that did seem to stick was the memory of her touch. Ever since the area where her hand had lied burned slightly, the feeling was ingrained in his mind. He was always so conscious of it. Some part of him desperately tried to hang on to that feeling. It was an internal struggle. Would it be better to hold onto it, he asked himself, or to let it go?
"Kal."
His eyes shot towards Arthur who was motioning towards the filled tumbler sitting in front of him. Quickly registering that it was the refill that he had ordered, he nodded towards the bartender as a thanks. The bartender, whose name tag read Luke, nodded back with a smile before continuing with his work.
"How is mother?" Arthur asked. It took Clark a minute to notice that Arthur had called him Kal. It had been so long since he heard that name that he needed a moment to register it's use.
"Uh . . .," He honed in his hearing on their mother. "She's fine, just watching TV. Sounds like she's already eaten as well."
Arthur nodded, not saying anything further.
Mera looked between the two before fully turning towards Clark. He eyed her movement with bored interest.
"So, how long will you two be staying?" She asked, mainly looking at Clark but catching Arthur's gaze.
"Already kicking me out, love?" Arthur asked with a small smile. The Queen shook her head, gathering Arthur by the shark tooth that hung on his neck and bringing him in for a small kiss. Unlike all the other heated kisses, this one seemed genuine. Once they broke apart, Arthur smiled which caused Mera to smile as well. They really did miss each other. Clark was used to his brother but he rarely saw his brother, a King, a married man. He let his eyes linger for a bit longer before turning away, leaving Arthur to answer. "For a bit, why?"
Mera turns slightly, addressing the both of them. "There's an oil rig . . . Not far from the surface of Atlantis. They are hiring. . ."
Clark's eyes shoot towards her, laced with slight irritation.
"Mera," Arthur tried to warn but it sounded more like a plea. His wife shot him a look of determination and he knew she wouldn't budge. It was a sore subject. Yes, it was difficult to get a job without drawing too much attention to himself but he was stubborn. Both Mera and Arthur knew that. Clark had the head of a bull and confidence that he could get his own job. His mother taught him to respect charity but pity was another story.
"And why would the Queen of Atlantis want to help an oil rig company?" Clark smiles bitterly towards her.
"Keep it intact and out of my waters, Kal." She answered simply, grabbing his drink and taking a sip. It wasn't because she was parched. No, it was an act to represent that she wasn't intimidated. Not by him. She knows for a fact that he'd never purposely hurt her and uses it against him.
He looked at her a brief moment, eyes never wavering from her. For some odd reason, he thought, there was something about strong-willed women that weakened him. He breathes in and nods.
On the exhale, he says. "Yes, ma'am."
. . . . .
Meanwhile. . .
Diana sat at her desk, finishing up reports and responding to emails she had received from reporters and government officials, along with some celebrities asking if she'd sponsor them. Without hesitation she'd respond with a diplomatic no and go about to the next email. It was all trivial matters, nothing to delve to deeply in and she was grateful especially with the hectic week coming her way, she didn't know if she could survive.
"Miss Prince," Julia interrupted, addressing her boss through the intercom," You have a visitor."
"Send them in."
Diana quickly sent the last email before closing up the page. Looking down at her watch, she noticed it was almost time to leave. She had an Art Opening to attend in less than an hour and she was going to cut it close to being late. Hopefully, whoever wanted to see her would make it quick.
"I honestly thought you would've been a lot more excited to see me."
She whipped around to see none other than her sister standing in the doorway with a bright smile on her face. Diana couldn't fight the huge smile on her face when she saw her sister, practically bounding in five inch heels to hug her sister.
"By the Gods, Donna, I've missed you," She hugged her tightly, not withholding her strength. Donna gleefully hugged her back with the same amount of strength. Diana took the time to enjoy with splendid moment with her sister. It had been so long since she'd seen her sister, almost half a year. She hadn't seen the sands of Themyscira in that time either. Hera, she missed them, all of her sisters, especially her mother.
"I've missed you as well, sister." Donna pulled back, her arms still wrapped around her sister
"What are you doing here? You weren't supposed to be here until this weekend with mother," Diana pondered, the smile never leaving her face.
"I decided to get a head start before mother begins to hog you for a whole week. I really wanted some time to catch up with my sister."
"Oh, I can't," She sighed, looking utterly disappointed," I must attend an Art Opening and it's in less than an hour . . . Unless, you wish to come with."
Donna smiled brightly, tightening her grip on her sister. "I'd love nothing more."
. . . . .
Elsewhere. . .
"Where are you going?" Arthur asked, watching his brother rise from his seat and fling his jacket over both his shoulders. He threw a few bills on the table, paying not only for his drink but for Arthur's as well. Arthur nodded his thanks.
"I need to see someone." He answered, flipping the collar of his dull worn out pea coat up. It was the middle of November and he estimated that it'd be freezing at his destination. Of course, he wasn't affected by Earth's climate but it helped him blend in, especially in the city.
"And who might that be?" Mera asked with one perfectly shaped brow raised.
"None of your business, Your Majesty." He bowed and began to make his way towards the door. The Atlantian Guardians bowed their heads towards him and he gave them a mock a salute. They couldn't help but a smile in amusement.
"You're an asshole, Kal-El!" Mera shouted from across the bar, making to lean back in her chair with Arthur's arm wrapped around her.
Without turning around, he opened the door after shouting back, "Tell me what you really think."
. . . . .
Meanwhile. . .
The driver stepped out of the limo, smoothing out his tie before making his way to the back of the limousine. He opened the door and held out his hand for Diana to exit, taking note of the exceptionally tall heels she bear on her feet. She took it gratefully, nodding her appreciation as he aided her out of the car. The driver watched in appreciation as she got out, giving him quite the view of the black dress she wear. It was formfitting, shaping every curve and dip of her body perfectly. It ended above her knee, showing off her perfectly toned legs enough for it to be modest. His eyes had traced the cutouts which exposed pieces of her midriff and he had to admire the muscle flexing underneath. He'd never seen a woman so evenly toned. His eyes would've traveled farther if it weren't for the clearing of the throat next to him. He looked to see Miss Troy, Miss Prince's sister, looking at him expectantly with her hand held out. Fumbling over himself, he immediately offered his hand to her which she took not a second later. She gave him a small smile of gratitude and he halfway melted, she wasn't as pretty as her sister but nearly as beautiful.
"We'll be ready to leave around 10:30, Mr. Grey."
"Of course, Miss Prince. 10:30." He nodded, giving both ladies a once over before spinning on his heels and heading towards the limousine. Opening the door, he took his seat on the driver's side and started the engine. He took a moment to look in the rear view mirror, watching their retreating forms as they entered the Art Opening.
"Damn," He sighed before driving off.
. . . . .
Gotham City – Wayne Manor
The BatMobile burst through the waterfall, the wheels screeching when it hit the pavement of the BatCave's driveway. Its speed unmatched sped through the halls, light after light illuminating the path to the BatCave. With the jerk of the handbrake and the flick of one Caped Crusader's wrist, the vehicle spun into a one-eighty and stopped. A gloved hand pressed one of multiple buttons gracing the steering wheel and the platform the BatMobile sat upon, began to descend into the BatCave. The Batman then pressed a button on the steering wheel which linked him to the computer located in the BatCave.
"Computer, pull up any information you can on Selina Kyle and the last known location of Johnathon Crane after he escaped Arkham."
"Yes, sir." The Computer responded, prepping the BatCave for the Batman's arrival. The lights switched on and the bats overhead were startled by the intrusion, some screeching in annoyance at the bright rays of light streamed shown down over their home. The familiar hum of the computer's turning on echoed through the cave. With a small beep the screens ignited to life, showing crime feeds and criminal activity around Gotham. Located on the two main computers was Selina Kyle's file and rumored spotting's of Johnathon Crane outside of Arkham. The platform which the BatMobile sat on was no less than five feet off the ground before the Caped Crusader hopped out, his cape swishing behind him furiously at the movement. Slowly, he approached his computer, hands moving to the cowl before removing it and placing it on a nearby table. He swiped some medical supplies before plopping himself unceremoniously in his chair. Peeling the plastic wrapping around the gauze, he held it to his chin where three cuts lie in his skin. Selina Kyle. He practically growled, the infamous CatWoman. It was obvious and she put absolutely no effort into hiding her identity apart from the small lace cloth that surrounded her eyes. His grey steely eyes never deterred from the photo of her on the screen. An enigma at its finest. She had already managed to escape his grasp one too many times and the cells he placed her in couldn't contain her. Unpredictable unlike most of the criminals he faced, smart as well, relies on her wits and strategy. Dangerously adaptable to any situation, always seems to be one step ahead. Tonight though, he had managed to trip her up and if he didn't see the look on her face he wouldn't dare think her surprised. She had looked at him with something in her eyes that he couldn't recognize and he knew it was real, unlike all her other ploys and distraction tactics, that look on her face was far from it. She had felt something, something beginning to pull at his own heart.
Selina Kyle. He hummed, pulling the gauze only to notice the blood on it. If he didn't catch his reflection in the monitor he wouldn't notice the small smile on his face. Grabbing a batarang from his arsenal, the smile immediately fell as he flung it with immense speed at the intruder.
It simply bounced off his shoulder and fell uselessly on the floor.
"You know," Clark bent down and picked up the batarang, narrowing his eyes at it and the assaulter, "I thought we were past this."
The reference towards their past violent encounters was not lost to Bruce and he tilted his head before rising from his chair. He began to approach the Kryptonian and his large arms entangled themselves across his chest. "When were we ever?"
That brought on an amused smile from Clark who shook his head in response. He smoothed two fingers over the batarang, easily bending it back into its previous shape. He then used his heat vision to sharpen and also heat the tip. Bruce watched him as he flung the batarang at one of the bullseye targets across the BatCave. The batarang, which sliced through the air at monumental speeds, went straight through the dummy's head. Clark whistled and wiggled his eyebrows suggestively. "I've been telling you to let me in that arsenal . . . "
Bruce shook his head immediately, "Not happening, Kent."
Clark shook his head in mock disappointment before using his super speed to set himself in Bruce's chair. The billionaire watched on, eyebrow rose at the intrusion of space. He understood that he and Clark had developed a questionable friendship and that through another perspective they would seem quite close but his BatCave was another story. Fortunately, he chose to let it go and pressed on.
"Where's your brother?"
Clark lent forward and began to toy with one of the smaller computers in front of him, eyes flicking briefly towards the image of a brown haired femme fatale that occupied half the screen of a larger monitor. He decided he'd ask about it later. "At the bottom of the Atlantic, having sex with his wife . . . Dick, Tim?"
"Dick's looking for Jason and Tim, out on patrol," Bruce moved to lean on the edge of a nearby table, his tangled arms never leaving their position over the Batman symbol. He watched as Clark toyed with his keyboard, careful not to press too hard on the keys but also focused on whatever task he was engaged in. "What about your mother? How's she?"
Bruce took note of the way he rolled his neck and flexed his hands. The Batman already knew from past encounters with him that control was not one of his strong suits but to see him fight it, brought a look of appraisal in his eyes. Eyes never leaving the monitor, Clark answered through a tightened jaw, his tongue pushing against the side of his cheek, "She's fine. I found a place for her, not permanent of course but enough for now . . . "
Bruce nodded, fighting back the urge to press for more. Clark continued to type at his slow and controlled pace. A comfortable silence stretches between them, the sound of rushing water and rustling bats occasionally sounding here and there. The Alien continued to type, seemingly directing himself to Google and the Caped Crusader tilted his head in silent curiosity. He watched as Clark typed slowly, one digit finding all the letters to type in the search engine.
"Why'd you call me here?" Clark asked, his deep baritone breaking the deep silence. His eyes flicked between Bruce and the keyboard, attention wavering between the two.
"Other than the fact that you crashed a private press conference . . ? I thought you were lying low."
"Wanted to know what she'd do," He reasoned quickly in response," Whether she'd tell them who I was or not. By the way we first met I would've assumed the former . . . Color me surprised."
Bruce nodded once more, seemingly accepting the answer.
"As for the real reason . . . I found something, something that may concern you."
Clark hummed and Bruce took that as a notion to continue. Removing his large arms from entanglement, he pressed a button near the base of the larger computer.
"Computer, pull up last month's seismograph readings." The machine automatically did as told. With one eye, Clark focused on his task at hand and with the other, he watched the woman's picture minimize and graphs replace the space it took. "Last month, there were five massive earthquakes, the first – Australia, fifty casualties. Second - Hawaii, ninety casualties. Third - Japan, two-hundred and fifty casualties. Fourth – America, Washington, fifty casualties. I thought it was ordinary at first but then the last earthquake . . . It shook the shores of California all the way to the Middle East, hundreds of casualties. Readings show that they all erupted from the Outer Core in Earth's layers. I narrowed down the source and landed in Egypt where the seismic readings were the strongest . . . I found this . . ."
Bruce pulled up a holographic image that sat between both men. He shoots Bruce a quick weary glance before turning towards the hologram. It took Clark's mind a moment to register before recognition crossed his face.
"Kryptonian technology," Clark stated, his jaw beginning to work itself in a way that Bruce recognized as irritation and annoyance. Throughout the course of their friendship Bruce had studied his expressions, those of aggravation and hatred and those of love and care. He noticed that he was very expressive of his anger, only occasionally holding back if in the best interest. Alas, being a Kryptonian he was slightly lost to love, his people being highly technologically advanced turning them blind to that specific emotion, insensitive. And that specifically is why Bruce cared for Martha, Clark's mother; she taught him sympathy and compassion, taught him how to love. If she didn't, only God knows where they'd be now.
Leaning back in Bruce's chair, Clark removed his hands from the keyboard and turned towards the vigilante, giving him his full attention. Bruce nodded towards the holographic Kryptonian technology and continued, "Zod wouldn't kill and hurt that many people just to threaten you like the last time . . . He's serious this time, stronger, and willing to kill. He won't stop until Earth is destroyed and Krypton is reborn."
Growling in aggravation, he shot out of the seat, leaving Bruce to raise an eyebrow at him. If it was any other ordinary man, he'd be startled, frightened even. Bruce made no move of fear, knowing surely that Clark's irritation wasn't directed at him. The Kryptonian rubbed at his temple, one hand shoved in his jacket pocket and the other, moving from his temple only to run through the messy tangles of his hair, successfully pushing back his fringes.
"Do you not remember the last time I tried saving the world?" He asked quietly, a soft edge to his tone that Bruce was fully aware of. Fortunately, one of the perks of being Batman was the fact that intimidation was lost to Bruce.
". . . You didn't try," He says," You succeeded."
Suddenly, Clark is in front of him, hands balled into fist and his eyes blazing with red heat. His towering figure was obviously meant to threaten but Bruce was indifferent, being on the receiving end of his anger before he was insensitive towards it. Of course, he was fully aware that Clark could kick his ass but he knew him better than that. No trifle without reason. Rules that he lived by. Rules that Martha had taught him. Later that night, Bruce Wayne would ask Alfred to deliver some flowers to the home of Martha Kent.
"A year, Bruce," He growled, his eyes blazing red. "They took me for a year."
"I know, Clark. I remember," Bruce continued calmly, with a shrug of his shoulders; his expression was completely placid, decidedly choosing not to get worked up over the ordeal much to Clark's utter annoyance. "I know what happened to you was tragic but that's no reason to hide . . . Especially now."
Bruce, sidestepping the bulk of the angry Kryptonian, turned the monitor that Clark was typing on earlier towards their general direction, the screen casting a light on them in the dimly lit cave.
"Especially after meeting her," Bruce stated, his voice stern and full of accusation. Clark visibly relaxed, his eyes fading back to the deep blue that Bruce was familiar with and his shoulders sagged as the tension eased out from his body. His hands, which were clutched in the tightest fist Bruce, had ever seen, unclenched and his fingers flexed as to aid the blood flow back into his hands. The heat radiating off the Kryptonian decreased exponentially. All of his anger, his agitation, and animosity depleted into confliction and enthrallment as the image of the Themysciran Ambassador, Diana Prince smiled back at him. She was at an event obviously, people who were not only rich social status but in wealth surrounded her, donning smiles, tuxedos and dresses that he undoubtedly couldn't afford. She was noticeably the star of it all, shining brighter than any diamond dangling from of any of the females ears in the picture whom of which couldn't hold a candle to her. Her hair was done-up, accentuating her sharp jaw and high cheekbones. Following the smooth expanse of her neck and the curve of her shoulder there'd be a red off-shoulder dress that clung to her like a second skin but she made it look so natural. He didn't believe in perfection but ever since he met her, he started questioning his beliefs. In all honesty, he'd met no one like her but of course, he doubted if there was anyone like her. With slow, soundless movements, he made his way towards the chair he had previously occupied, setting it straight before sitting down gently.
"And what would you have me do, Bruce?" He breathed in heavily, his eyes dragging wearily towards the vigilante.
Bruce shrugged. " . . . Nothing."
Clark's brows furrow in perplexity. "Wha-?"
"It's simple, really." He dismisses as if all the answers lie in that hard head of his, as if there is no need to ask questions, only doing so to indulge people and their insistent need to talk about their lives because it's therapeutic. Clark knew him better than that, always finding that he'd be one step ahead of the game, as if it was a game. As if it wasn't life or death but if they were playing Monopoly in the BatCave while Alfred served them some drinks and snacks. Part of Clark disliked him for it but couldn't help but admire it as well. "Contingency plan, Kent. If the Justice League fails to stop him . . . I'm sure you'll find your way."
"Why?" Clark suddenly asks, eyebrows raised and his bottom lip caught between his teeth. "Hm . . .? Why so much faith in me? I don't know how to fight. I know no tactical strategies. Zod is a warrior, trained from birth on how to fight, on how to get the best of his opponent, strategies of war. My family specialized in science."
Bruce shrugged once more. "Cause I know you. And if I have learned anything from any of my experiences with you is that you don't just use your power or skills when you fight, you use your mind, your heart, your will. It's not just flying fist and kicks with you, it's a determination to win . . . It's either that or you're going down fighting."
Clark looked at him once more before turning back to the monitor, his eyes racking over Bruce's face to understand if this was real or not. He was almost startled to find that the sentiment was real.
"I love you too, Brucie."
Rolling his eyes, Bruce finally pulls up a chair, taking a seat next to the bulking and invasive form of Clark. Oddly enough, he finds that he doesn't mind it one bit and for the first time that day, Bruce relaxes. Of course he doesn't remove his suit just in case any inevitable emergencies but takes the time to just breathe. He frowns. It almost seems foreign to him now.
"Tell me about her."
"Wise. Determined. Strong-willed. Arrogant. Kind. Prideful. Almost reminds me of you." Bruce closes his eyes and breathes in heavily through his nose.
Clark pays no mind, continuing to click the arrow on the screen with the mouse. New images arrive with every click. He pauses when he sees a man dressed in a military uniform hanging on her arm with a bright smile and annoyingly cropped hair. "Who's this . . . Steve Trevor? Boyfriend? Husband?"
His brow rises and confirms Clark's suspicion. "Boyfriend."
"How long?"
Bruce scratches his head before running the same hand through his hair. "Two . . . maybe three years."
Clark's thick brows furrowed. "Proposals?"
"Nope. Her first relationship."
He hums low in his throat in response, delving deeper into the sea of images.
"You know . . . She lied not only to her boyfriend but also in front of dozens of reporters and journalist, not to mention the US General. She doesn't even know you yet she decided to lie to the world. She deserves more than a note with a thank you on it. " Bruce open's an eye, looking at him accusingly.
Clark scoffed, his hands leaving the laptop before leaning back in his chair and eyed the vigilante. "Selena Kyle deserves to be in prison yet she conveniently eludes the Batman's grasps every time."
He immediately motioned to the mugshot and if Clark didn't have super-hearing, he would've failed to notice Bruce's heart rate spike. Throwing a quick glance towards the image, he sighed outwardly, running a hand down his face before returning it to its previous position. He was obviously frustrated, not with Clark, but with the obvious enigma that was Selina Kyle. He didn't know what to do with her; some dark part of him liked the games they played, loved how they danced around each other. Alas, his mind screamed at him to cuff her, to hand her to Jim Gordon at the GCPD. She'd land in Arkham eventually, fifteen years at best but with good behavior she could cut that in half. He knew she was fully capable of taking care of herself against normal thugs but the criminals in Arkham were a whole other story. It was an unnatural feeling, something that just kept pulling at his heart. For the first time in his life, he was at a standstill. Quickly remembering his guest, he cleared his throat and set himself straight: making sure his face didn't let anything off, keeping his heart rate under control, and keeping his voice even and strong. Alas, he was sitting next to a man with extraordinary powers he was still learning to understand so, of course, his efforts were in vain.
"Touché," He admitted quietly, his eyes moving lazily from the mug shot to the smirking Kryptonian next to him.
Clark seemingly nodded in response, an amused look on his face before morphing into teasing shock. "Have I bested the Batman at his own game of wit?"
Bruce snorted, "The day you do, Hell will freeze over and pigs will best you in the skies, Kent."
A laugh erupted from his left and Bruce couldn't help but smile himself. The two enjoyed a moment more, talking and trying half-heartedly to best each other in their banter before Clark rose from his seat, shutting the laptop Bruce let him use on the way. Bruce eyes his movements curiously. Slowly, his hands moved to the base of his hood before flipping it up and over his head, the fringe he had smoothed back earlier falling before his eyes once more. He listened beyond the barriers of the BatCave for a moment before nodding to himself. Arthur and Mera were in their chambers in Atlantis, continuously celebrating their reunion. Martha was enjoying herself in less carnal ways, playing a small game of chess with another patient. She was laughing and Clark couldn't help but smile at the sound. Finally, his ears had located the voice he had been searching for and he made way to exit the BatCave.
"Johnathon Crane is at Gotham General, expanding on his latest drug."
Bruce swiveled in his chair, watching his retreating form. "And where, pray tell, are you going?"
"To admire some art."