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Chapter 4
That night Daggeron and Chip led Bruce out to a secluded glade that had been used for the same purpose for centuries. Daggeron had asked Chip to be his second since he was in training. Chip had been thrilled and ecstatic all at once and had accepted. His parents however believed that he was staying with Xander for the night. Xander was supposed to cover for him.
"We'll be out here," said Daggeron. "Good luck."
"Thanks I appreciate it," said Bruce, stepping into the glade.
Bruce was not in his everyday clothes. He was dressed in the clothes provided by Udonna. Where she had gotten his exact size he didn't feel like he had a right to ask, but in any case they fit him like a glove.
He was wearing black leather pants and above that a white silk shirt tucked into the pants. The silk of the shirt was as fine as anything you could buy. It practically slid over his skin like cream. The only difference being form a store bought shirt was that it was open at the neck like one of those old fashioned buccaneer shirts except there were no ruffles at the neck and cuffs.
Thank goodness for that, Bruce thought. He'd look ridicules with ruffles not to mention one of those tricorn hats with a feather sticking out of the brim. He also had on a short cape that was tucked into the inside of his shirt and attached somehow.
Over the shirt was a vest with black bats stitched into it to represent his being Batman. On his feet were boots also of finely crafted leather. These were the kind of boots that went all the way to the knee. There was also room in them to keep a knife or a dagger.
Bruce sat down on the grass his back against a tree as he thought about how his life had led him to this point and time.
His parents' sudden murder at the age of eight had changed his once happy life into something else entirely. For years he had planned on what to do when he was older. The idea of Batman had gradually come out of the simple fact that he needed a secret identity if he wanted to put criminals behind bars. If they knew it was Bruce Wayne stopping their schemes they would come after those he cared about and at that time he had wanted to lead at least a partially normal life.
And so Batman had been created.
Later he had remembered the cave beneath the manor that he had fallen into when he was six. They had eventually become the Batcave his high tech command center. When he was older he had gone to college then studied martial arts in Japan and worked himself almost to death to learn everything he could not only about fighting but about the criminal mind and how they thought.
Criminals soon learned to fear him and with good reason for he came down hard on villains. He never killed only captured and soon even the police who at first thought he was nothing more than a myth came to know that he was real. At first he had taken out his anger at his parents' deaths on the criminal element but soon realized that if he wasn't careful he might kill someone and so he had reigned in his temper.
Bruce looked up coming out of his thoughts as he heard a small sound for the glade had been almost deathly silent except for the chirping of a few crickets and the rustling leaves in the wind. He relaxed when he saw it was only a fox and then almost instantly realized it wasn't long until dawn. Daggeron and Chip would be there in another hour or so to escort him to the knighting ceremony.
Who had thought that someday he would be knighted just like in the Middle Ages? Most people today didn't believe in knights anymore as anything but fairy tales and myths. Children would read stories like King Arthur and Chaucer and dream of being just like their heroes not realizing of course that it was a lot of hard work and not fun and games.
Now it was his turn and even though he knew it was real he was still having trouble absorbing that fact.
Bruce was jerked out of his thoughts again by the sound of booted footsteps on the grass. He was instantly on his feet and in a guard position just in case it was someone unfriendly. He relaxed when he saw Daggeron and Chip come into view.
"It's time," said Daggeron simply.
Bruce nodded and followed the two out of the glade and towards Rootcore where the ceremony was to take place.
Daggeron and Chip stopped a few feet away from the entrance to Rootcore and waited to be noticed by the party gathered at the front of it. There was Leanbow, Udonna and Clare as well as Diana, Alfred, Superman, Flash and the rest of the Mystic Force Rangers standing there waiting for the ceremony to begin. Most of the his friends had arrived sometime after he was already on vigil and so he had not known until that moment as to whether they had been able to make it or not. Everybody but Green Lantern was there to see him knighted.
"Who brings this man before me?" Leanbow intoned for he was presiding over the ceremony.
"I do," said Daggeron stepping away from Bruce's side. "I vouch for his integrity and his courage."
"Who else will vouch for this man?"
"I will," said Diana stepping forward for her part in the ceremony. "I know this man to be willing to risk his life for not only his friends and loved ones but for total strangers."
Alfred then stepped forward and said with a heavy English accent, "I will also vouch for this man. I have known him since the day he was born and know him to be a man with a kind heart. One who values valor and honor above all else and who goes out of his way to help those who need help whether they be rich or poor."
"Then bring him before me."
Bruce walked forward with both Daggeron and Chip on either side of him his cape billowing in the wind behind him.
"What is the name of the man that comes to stand before me to be knighted?"
"Bruce Wayne."
"Do you Bruce Wayne swear upon your honor to uphold all the principles of knighthood? Too protect the weak? To help whoever needs it whether or not they request it? To always do your best to fight whatever evil you may encounter?"
"I do," said Bruce solemnly.
"Then kneel before me."
Leanbow drew his sword and tapped Bruce on both shoulders after he had kneeled. This was a gesture that went back centuries and was almost ritualistic.
"Bruce Wayne you are now a knight not only of the Mystic Realm but of your world. Do you accept these responsibilities as they have given to you?"
"I do," said Bruce.
"Then rise and accept this sword as not only a token of my regard but also as a tool to be used to fight evil wherever you may encounter it."
Leanbow handed him a sword in a scabbard dyed in black. The look of surprise on Bruce's face told everyone who could see it that this was not a thing he had been expecting. He accepted the sword and scabbard with good grace realizing almost instantly that if he did not he would dishonor the man he had come to consider a friend.
He drew the blade and it slid out of the scabbard with hardly a sound. The sword was beautifully crafted. The hilt was steel wrapped in leather and the top just above the leather wrapped in silver wire. It was a real warrior's weapon meant to be used.
"Thank you," said Bruce sliding the weapon back into its scabbard. "I am deeply touched by your show of faith in me."
"Congratulations Bruce," said Superman. "If anyone deserves this you do."
"Thanks Superman," said Bruce making sure to not use his real name. If Superman wanted to reveal his identity that was his choice but he would not betray someone he considered a friend.
"Yeah congratulations Bats," said Flash speeding over so fast he threw up a cloud of dust and dirt that everyone near them except Superman began coughing.
"Flash! Slow down! We're in a forest where speeding around is not a good idea. Can't you walk like a normal person for once?"
"Why when running everywhere is so much fun?"
Bruce rolled his eyes. "Flash grow up! If that's possible that is. There are other people to consider besides yourself and none of us want to be coughing up dust for the next week."
"He's right Flash," Superman put in.
"Whatever you say Supes," said Flash slowing down to a walk.
The dust almost immediately and everybody breathed a little easier after that.
"Why does he listen to you and not me?" asked Bruce.
Superman shrugged, "I guess it's because he knows I can break him in two and you can't."
"I'll break him in two all right," Bruce mock growled.
"You know the League wouldn't be the same without him."
"Yes, I know, I suppose he has his uses."
"I wanted to also give you my congratulations Mr. Wayne," said Vida coming over.
"Thank you Vida and call me Bruce. We're going to be colleges after all. Have you met Superman?"
"Yes we had a chance to talk briefly earlier."
"Very briefly," said Superman. "I'm afraid that red headed boy took over the conversation earlier."
"Oh you mean Chip," said Bruce. "Yes he is the Yellow Ranger and one of a kind. Enthusiastic about everything but absolutely loyal to his friends and to what he believes in."
"From you that is quite a compliment," said Superman.
Bruce shrugged noncommittally and said, "Maybe marriage has mellowed me."
Superman didn't comment knowing he was walking on dangerous territory if he did. After a few moments of silence Bruce wondered over to where Diana and Daggeron were talking.
"Diana, can I have a word with Daggeron?"
"Of course Bruce," said Diana.
"What did you want to talk to me about?" asked Daggeron.
"I wanted to invite you and the others to a little party I'm planning on having at my home in Gotham. It will be exclusively for members of the Justice League."
"I'll have to talk to everyone but as far as I know we can come."
"Do you need transportation?" asked Bruce. "I'll be happy to arrange something for you."
"No I have a train that is also my Zord that we can all come in. The problem however will be where to park it."
"A train?" asked Bruce amazed. "How would you get it from here to Gotham without causing a panic?"
"Simple really I'll take it between dimensions."
Bruce stared at him then just seemed to accept it. "Well you can park it in the Batcave. It has plenty of space."
"I'll talk to the others then and let you know."
"Okay," said Bruce.
Soon after that the group dispersed. All went back through the portal to Briarwood and no more than a few minutes later after a few brief goodbyes all of them went their own separate ways. Both Superman and Flash were gone in seconds. Superman was gone by air and Flash by running, throwing up a trail of dust in his wake.
Several weeks later
The Mystic Force Rangers arrived in the Solar Streak inside the Batcave. The train seemed to hover in the air for a few seconds and then set down gently in the spot cleared for it. Bruce had sent Daggeron the exact coordinates so he would have no trouble finding not only the Batcave but the spot that had been cleared for the train.
After Daggeron had shut down the engines and Jenji who had come with him had gone back into his lamp he exited. The others were already out and looking around in amazement for the Batcave had some equipment that rivaled even NASA's
"Wow! This is the Batcave!" exclaimed Chip. "I've always wondered what this place was like."
"Well now you know," said Nick slapping Chip on the back.
"No I don't I could take a week to explore this place and still not know every nook and cranny. A lot of people on the internet have speculated what this place is like and I can tell you right now that not a single one even comes close to the truth."
"Well that's nice to know," Maddie told him. "After all if everyone knew what this place was like then his secret identity wouldn't be much of a secret now would it?"
"She does have a point," said Xander.
Suddenly a cough alerted them that they were no longer alone. They all immediately turned and saw Alfred standing behind them. "Welcome to the Batcave and to Wayne Manor. It is a pleasure to see all of you again. If you'll follow me Mistress Diana and Master Bruce are upstairs greeting guests. Refreshments are being served—"
"Am I late Alfred?" asked a new voice.
All of them turned to see a tall and slender woman with long wavy black hair, blue eyes and dressed all in black. Daggeron stared at her in awe for she was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. He had never once in his life reacted to a woman on sight but it sure was happening now.
Alfred smiled, "Ah Mistress Zatanna, I was wondering if the airport had lost you. It's 5 o'clock you were supposed to be here two hours ago."
Zatanna smiled back. "Sorry Alfred, my plane had a layover so I knew I would be late. I'm sorry that I couldn't get here sooner, but I'm here now."
"That's fine since you are here now it doesn't matter. Now if all of you would please follow me into the ballroom."
The whole group including the newly arrived Zatanna followed Alfred from the Batcave, up the stairs, out the clock entrance, past some halls where they were all awed all over again over various paintings and statues that the Waynes owned.
Within minutes Alfred stopped before Bruce and Diana. "It's nice to see everyone again," said Bruce. "I'm glad you could all make it."
"We're glad to be here," said Leanbow, shaking Bruce's hand. "You have a lovely home."
"Thank you," said Bruce. "Most of the antiques were collected by my father and mother before their deaths. I've added a few touches but it still looks a lot like it did when I was growing up."
"Help yourselves too the food and drinks in the ballroom," said Diana. "We have nonalcoholic drinks for those of you that are under twenty-one and wine and beer for those who of legal age."
Everybody then left to get food and drink for none of them had had dinner knowing they would be eating at the party. Nick stared at the spread of food and drinks in awe and said, "Diana said this was a small buffet?"
"Yeah she did, but I think this is a huge buffet. After all it fills two long tables that go from one end of the room to the other," said Madison.
"Ooh, I wish I could be adopted by the Waynes," said Xander popping a chicken tender into his mouth. "This is heaven."
"Sorry Xander," said Vida unsympathetically. "Bruce has two kids already. Better luck next time."
Daggeron got his drink and took it over to where Zatanna and Diana were talking.
Upon his approach, Diana quickly broke off the conversation and said, "You have company. I'll leave you two alone."
"Wait Diana—" Zatanna protested.
"No you two talk. I have to speak to Bruce about something," Diana said as she disappeared into the crowd leaving Daggeron and Zatanna alone.
Zatanna turned to face Daggeron and said, "Sorry about that." She wondered at Diana's sudden desertion and thought her friend was trying to play matchmaker again.
"What is your name?" asked Zatanna as she eyed Daggeron, her azure eyes raking over his masculine form.
Daggeron bowed gallantly. "Daggeron my lady and you are—?"
Zatanna held out her hand for Daggeron to shake and said, "Zatanna Zatara. I'm with the Justice League. You're a Mystic Knight right?"
Daggeron took her hand and kissed the back of it. "Yes my lady," he said with a smile that lighted up his entire face.
"Oh, I've never met a knight before," said Zatanna also with a smile.
"Well, now you have," said Daggeron. "You work with the Justice League?"
"Yes, when I can. I'm on the road quite a bit."
Daggeron was intrigued and asked, "Doing what?"
"Mistress Zatanna?" interrupted a voice politely.
Both turned to see Alfred standing behind them. "Yes Alfred?" asked Zatanna.
"The Waynes are ready. Would you like to begin?"
"Of course," said Zatanna trying to hide her disappointment at having to stop talking to Daggeron. She turned back to Daggeron and said "Excuse me, but I have to be going. I'm the entertainment for tonight."
"What kind of entertainment?" Daggeron asked.
Zatanna smiled slyly, "Wait and see," was all she said as she headed towards the stage that had been set up for her at the end of the room.
A few minutes later the lights in the ballroom dimmed and music began to play. Everyone turned towards the stage as the curtain rose and Zatanna walked out and said, "Ladies and Gentlemen I am Zatanna Zatara and like my father before me, I am a magician."
"Yeah, right," Nick snorted. "She can't be a 'real' magician."
"Bowen you know better than that," Udonna told him quietly. "You know magic exist. Just because you have never seen anyone else performing magic does not mean it does not exist. Magic can take many forms and in many people. It is not exclusive to the Mystic Realm."
"Yes mom," said Nick realizing she was right. Just because he had never seen real magic did not mean it did not exist. After all the Rangers had magic and four of them came from the human world which proved that if they could have it so could others.
"My father John Zatara was a great magician. He taught all his knowledge to me and I now perform some of those feats for you."
She looked down at herself and said, "But first, I need to change my clothes."
Zatanna then took a small object out of her pocket.
"She has a wand!" said Ron in amazement.
"Do you think she could be a real magician, Hermione?" asked Ginny quietly.
"I don't know for sure but she could be." Hermione then turned to Harry and asked the same question, "Harry do you think she could be a real magician?"
Harry only smiled by way of response as if he held some kind of secret.
"Now, otserp!" (Presto!), said Zatanna, pointing her wand at herself. A puff of smoke surrounded her obscuring her from the audience.
"Hsinav!" (Vanish!) Zatanna shouted from somewhere in the smoke.
The smoke disappeared and Zatanna stood there on the stage her black garb gone. It was however replaced by a white shirt, bowtie, black jacket, high heels and top hat.
A wolf whistle ripped through the audience and all turned to see Wally West whistling at Zatanna. Wally then turned to look at the others and asked unrepentantly, "What?"
The twin glares from the hosts shut him up.
"Now, if we don't have any more interruptions, I'll continue. Can I have a volunteer from the audience?" asked Zatanna.
"Why don't you go up, Daggeron?" asked Nick with a sly smile.
"I can't," said Daggeron with a shake of his head.
"Why not?" asked Xander.
"It wouldn't be right."
"You were pretty cozy with her this evening," Madison commented.
"Were you flirting with her?" asked Vida with a smug smile already knowing the answer.
At this last comment Daggeron blushed and denied it. "I was not."
"You were," said Maddie with a smug smile.
"Daggeron has a girlfriend," sing-songed Xander in a whisper.
Daggeron said nothing, his dark bronze face becoming slightly red.
"Go up," whispered Chip.
"No, and that's final," said Daggeron.
"I'll go," said a voice with an English accent.
All turned to find Harry standing up and taking the stage beside Zatanna.
"Now Harry, hold this," said Zatanna handing him her top hat and pointing her wand at it she said, "Tibbar raeppa!" (Rabbit Appear) A small white fluffy rabbit appeared in the hat.
"Oh he's soooo cute," cooed Maddie.
"Typical trick," whispered Hermione with a sigh.
"What do you mean?" asked Ron.
"Fake magicians perform the rabbit out of the hat trick all the time in the Muggle world."
"Oh," said Ron finally understanding.
"Now, Tibbar raeppasid!" (Rabbit Disappear) and suddenly the rabbit disappeared.
"Hey, where did it go?" asked Xander.
Zatanna did a few more tricks before she announced the show was over for the evening. She immediately disappeared off stage in a puff of smoke only to reappear beside Daggeron as he was heading towards the food tables. "Hey handsome," she said as she popped up beside him.
"Hey yourself," said Daggeron trying not to act flustered in her presence. "That was some show you put on."
"Thank you I always appreciate compliments from my fans especially ones as handsome as you."
"Why thank you milady, would you care to accompany me over to the buffet for some refreshment?"
"Love to since I'm starved."
"Haven't you eaten?"
"Not since lunch. I don't ever eat right before a show."
"Ah well allow me to escort the lovely lady to where she can get some food before she starts to fade away right in front of my eyes."
Zatanna laughed and took his arm in her own then said, "Why thank you kind sir."
After getting their plates, they got their food, choosing a bit of everything off the buffet and grabbed their drinks, two glasses of water.
"Do you want to go sit down somewhere?" asked Daggeron.
"Yes." Zatanna looked around the crowded ballroom. "There is an empty table in the back. Let's sit there."
They walked through the noisy crowds until they got to the table in the back. Sitting down, they begin to eat.
After awhile, Daggeron asked, "Could I ask you something?"
Zatanna turned from her food to Daggeron. "Yes, what is it?"
"Would you like to go somewhere with me?"
"Like a date?"
"Yes."
"I would love to."
Daggeron's heart started to beat fast. "You will?"
"Yes. When do you want to go out?"
"In a week or two."
Zatanna smiled. "I don't have any commitments for awhile. How about Friday afternoon?"
"That would be fine. Where would we meet?"
"I don't know. Where do you suggest?"
"We'll meet in Briarwood. Where would we go out to eat?"
"I'll pick the place. Is that okay?"
"Yes, that's fine."
They stared at each other for awhile before going back to eating their repast.
Finishing their meal, they separated but not before Daggeron turned back to her, took her hands into his, and said, "I'll see you on Friday. Take care."
"See you then," said Zatanna softly, enjoying the feel of his hands surrounding hers.
A little later after the entertainment was over for the evening, Bruce pulled Daggeron aside and quietly led him into his office.
"Please take a seat," said Bruce.
"What did you want to talk about?"
"I saw you talking to Zatanna earlier. You seem to be getting along pretty well."
Daggeron understood what Bruce did not say. Bruce was worried about Daggeron's interests in her and so he hastened to reassure his friend.
"Zatanna is a very beautiful woman," said Daggeron.
"Yes, I know she is and I would not want to find out that you had hurt her in anyway." The subtle threat in Bruce's tone was not lost on Daggeron as he continued. "If I find out that you have hurt her, you will regret it. She is like a sister to me." Bruce's expression turned stony. "You are an honorable man, Daggeron. I know that and also that you would never hurt her deliberately. A lot of the time however, hurt can be caused inadvertently. Besides I promised her father and look after her before he died."
"I would never hurt her," said Daggeron, assured him. "In fact I could very easily find myself falling for her."
"I know for a fact that she has already fallen for you and as far as I know that has never happened before. She is a good person that has had more than her share of tragedies.
"I swear upon my honor that I would never hurt her on purpose or accidentally," said Daggeron getting to his feet and bowing with his fist over his heart, his expression serious.
"Good, I accept your word of honor and we will never speak of this again," said Bruce rising to his feet and shaking Daggeron's hand. "Now let's go back to the party before Diana not to mention Zatanna notices we're gone."
"Don't want to get yourself lectured on interfering where you shouldn't be?" Daggeron suggested with a smile.
"Yes," Bruce agreed and winced. "You haven't known either very long but you already know both would lecture me about it and I could do without two women yelling in my ears."
Daggeron actually chuckled at this statement. "I can understand that, my friend. I wouldn't want them yelling at me either."
"Come on. We'd better get back," said Bruce leading the way back to the ballroom.
Harry observed Clark Kent with his wife from across the room. It was after the entertainment had ended for the evening and Harry had found out Ken's identity as Superman totally by accident. He had not meant to intrude but Kent had practically shouted his identity in his mind and his shields had not been strong enough to block someone whose mind was as strong as Superman. So the question remained how could he tell the man that he had discovered his identity totally by accident and all because he was a Legilimens?
He didn't think it was right however to keep it from him for he knew Clark Kent and his alter ego to be good men that went out of their way to help people.
Finally he sighed and took a sip of his drink and came to a decision. He then began to walk over to where Clark was standing. "Mr. Kent I believe we met earlier this evening. My name is Harry Potter."
"Ah yes we did," said Clark shaking Harry's hand. "I think you met my wife as well?"
"Yes, yes I did. Now Mr. Kent if I could have a word with you for a minute—privately," Harry added.
"Of course Mr. Potter. I'll be right back Lois," Clark told his wife.
"All right farm boy I'll be waiting. Don't be too long," said Lois giving him a light kiss on the lips.
"What is it you wanted to talk about Mr. Potter?" asked Clark once they had found them a relatively quiet corner in which to talk.
"Please it's just Harry. As for what I wanted to talk to you about I wanted to let you know that I know your secret."
"What secret?" asked Clark innocently.
Harry sighed and said, "Mr. Kent I know you're Superman."
"How?" asked Clark rather startled to have his secret revealed to him by a virtual stranger when he had worked so hard to keep it.
"Because Mr. Kent I am not only a wizard I am also a Legilimens."
"What's that?" asked Clark.
"It is a rare skill that takes years of study to master. You learn to read the thoughts of others not to be intrusive but to be able to tell if that person can be fully trusted. Now normally I keep my shields up especially in a crowd like this but when we shook hands earlier your thoughts were so strong that I was not prepared. My shields could not stand against them and they crumbled.
"I see," said Clark, thoughtfully. "May I ask what you intend to do with this information?"
"Nothing at all," said Harry. "I just wanted you to know that I knew for I felt it was the honest thing to do."
"I appreciate your honesty," said Clark, "And your candor. I would appreciate it however if you didn't tell anybody else. Not even your closest friends.
"You have my word Mr. Kent," said Harry solemnly. "I won't tell anybody, not even my wife."
"I accept your word," said Clark shaking Harry's hand his expression solemn. "And call me Clark."
Zatanna stood just outside Briarwood, waiting for her date. It was Friday evening several days after the party. Daggeron said he would be here, she thought.
Then she heard a deep voice say close to her. "Good afternoon, my lady."
Zatanna looked around before she glanced up. "Daggeron," she said. "You came!"
Daggeron smiled. "I said that I would meet you on Friday afternoon."
"And you're floating in midair on a burgundy rug!"
"It's my magic carpet."
Zatanna looked up into his face and smiled. "Do you have a genie too?"
Daggeron chuckled. "Actually, I do. His name is Jenji. I'll have to introduce you two after our date."
"I'd like that."
"Well, where do you want to go?"
"There's a new restaurant in Gotham. It's called Mystique. We can go there."
Daggeron stared at her. "You look beautiful."
"I do? This is an old purple dress and I just tied back my hair in a ponytail. It's nothing special."
"You make me feel underdressed."
"You look quite handsome." What Zatanna said was true Daggeron was wearing a beige jacket on, white shirt, and matching beige pants with black shoes. "That simple look suits you," she said with a smile.
Daggeron held out his hand to her and said, "Are you ready for a ride?"
Zatanna placed her hand in his and said, "Yes."
They climbed upon the carpet and Daggeron pulled her close to him.
Zatanna looked at him, a question written on her face.
Daggeron smiled. "You'll fall if I don't hold you. Just relax and enjoy the ride."
Zatanna smiled back and said "All right," settling in his arms.
Then the carpet began to ride off the ground, causing Zatanna to fall close against Daggeron's body. She glanced back at him and his face seemed to say 'I told you so.'
The carpet climbed higher and higher into the sky until they hovered above the city of Gotham.
Zatanna glanced down, grateful that Daggeron was still holding her and said "This is amazing!"
Daggeron smiled.
The carpet moved along the horizon as Zatanna pointed out some of the places in Gotham that she knew and together they laughed, enjoying themselves.
Then Zatanna saw something and said "There's our stop, a mile ahead."
Daggeron nodded and the carpet continued on. Then when it got closer to the building where Mystique was, the carpet began to slowly descend.
As the carpet glided down to a stop, Zatanna could only smile. The ride had been magical. Then she stared down at the arms that held her. Daggeron feels so warm. He simply wanted to hold me so I won't fall off. He's so noble and handsome. What else would you expect from a knight?
The carpet stopped in front of the restaurant. Its name Mystique emblazoned in big red curvy letters outlined in neon gold. They got off and Daggeron made the carpet disappear in the blink of an eye.
Zatanna glanced down at their hands. Daggeron still held her hands in his. Then she looked up and their eyes met, black looked into blue.
"Shall we go in?" asked Zatanna.
"Yes. Let me get the door for you," said Daggeron, walking forward and opening one of the clear glass double doors for her.
Zatanna smiled. "Daggeron, you're going to spoil me."
Daggeron couldn't help but smile. "I can't think of a more beautiful woman to spoil," he said following her inside after closing the door behind them.
"How may I help you?" asked a tall skinny balding man in a tuxedo.
"Maître 'd, I have a reservation. Zatara, table for two, no smoking."
The man smiled, grabbing two menus, and said, "Please follow me."
He took a left, then right, and finally a left through the crowded restaurant with Zatanna and Daggeron following behind him. He stopped by an unoccupied table for two and placed the menus down. Then he said, "A waitress will be coming soon to take your order. Have a nice evening." He then left them.
Daggeron grabbed his menu and opened it up. Glancing at it, his face fell. "Zatanna—" he said.
"What?" she said looking up at him.
"I can't afford this."
"Don't worry. I'll pay for our meal."
"All right," said Daggeron softly.
After a moment, Zatanna looked at him and said "You're not happy about this."
"I should be able to pay for my own meal."
"Don't beat yourself up. Don't you have money where you come from?"
"We barter for things, but we don't have any money as you know it. I'm sorry."
"Don't be. I'll pay for it. Besides I don't usually have to pay for a handsome man. Let me do this for you."
"All right," he said softly as a young blonde dressed in a blue uniform came to their table.
She smiled and said "Hi! I'm Casey and I'll be your waitress for this evening. Are you ready to order?"
"Daggeron?" asked Zatanna.
He nodded and said, "I'm ready to order."
Soon the waitress brought their food and drinks and they ate. In-between they talked about their lives. Zatanna couldn't help but laugh as Daggeron told her about being a frog and Daggeron listened as Zatanna told him about her meeting Bruce Wayne aka John Smith when they were younger. A couple of hours later, Zatanna paid for their meal and they were back on the carpet, floating overhead.
"Where are we going, Daggeron?" asked Zatanna, feeling quite warm in his arms.
"You wanted to meet Jenji, didn't you?" he said. "We're going to Rootcore and pick him up."
"Could I do the honors?" she said.
"What do you mean?" he said.
"I can transport us to Rootcore or at least Briarwood."
Daggeron nodded. "Go ahead."
"Ot na yella ni doowrairB morf mahtoG!" (To an alley in Briarwood from Gotham) and they and the carpet vanished in a puff of smoke, leaving no trace behind.
Once in Briarwood they went to Rootcore, Daggeron shouted; "Jenji!"
"Yes?"
Zatanna and Daggeron turned to find a big feline creature dressed in a lavish costume standing before them.
"Jenji!" said Daggeron to the feline creature.
"This is your genie?" asked Zatanna.
"Yes, his name is Jenji. Jenji, this is Zatanna. Zatanna, this is Jenji."
"Who is she?" asked Jenji.
Daggeron blushed slightly. "I went out on a date this evening with her."
That perked Jenji's interest. "You went out on a date with someone?"
"Yes."
"Daggeron's got a girlfriend! Daggeron's got a girlfriend!" sing-songed Jenji much to Daggeron's and Zatanna's embarrassment.
"Jenji!" exclaimed Daggeron trying to hush his friend.
Jenji smiled. "Sorry! Did you like your date?"
"Yes, very much," Daggeron said.
"So, Zatanna, do you like Daggeron?" Jenji said.
"Yes," said Zatanna.
"Are you coming back soon?" said the feline.
Daggeron smiled and looked at Zatanna. "I don't know. Zatanna, would you like to go out on another date with me?"
Zatanna's face fell.
"Oh, no, that isn't usually good," said Jenji.
"Zatanna?" asked Daggeron.
"I can't. It's not like I wouldn't enjoy another date with you. It's just that my agent that books my magical acts called me today. I have to go to do a tour in a few days."
"Oh," said Daggeron, unable to hide the disappointment in his voice.
Zatanna smiled and touched Daggeron's face with her hands. "You are a wonderful man, handsome. I would love to accept another date from you, but my tour—I'll be gone for two months. You'll have to wait until then."
Daggeron looked tenderly at her. "For you, I would wait a lifetime."
"Oh, Daggeron," said Zatanna as she watched him leaning down and—
Their lips met his against hers in a soul searing kiss, his arms around her body, pressing her soft form against his hard muscular frame.
They stayed like that for a couple of moments until they heard a cough. They broke apart and looked up to see Jenji staring at them.
"Did you forget about me?" the feline said.
Both Zatanna and Daggeron blushed. "Yes, I'm afraid we did," said Daggeron.
"Well, it's past my bedtime. I have to go home. Nice too meet you, Jenji."
"Nice too meet you. Come back soon," he said. Then he turned to Daggeron and said, "What are you going to do now?"
"Take Zatanna home," said Daggeron. "Good night, Jenji."
"Have a safe trip," said Jenji to the departing couple before he went back into his lamp.
Zatanna and Daggeron went back onto the carpet, flew back to Gotham, and Daggeron deposited her on her doorstep. "Thank you, handsome. I told the truth. I did enjoy our date and I'm looking forward to our next one."
Daggeron smiled. Then he took his left hand and caressed Zatanna's cheek. "So am I. Take care of yourself and come back soon."
"I will, Daggeron," she said, her eyes never leaving his.
"May I ask a favor?"
"What is it?"
"May I please have another kiss?"
Zatanna smiled. "You may," she said as Daggeron bent down as their lips came together. They kissed for a longer time since this time there would be no Jenji to distract them. Then they parted and stared at each other.
"Goodbye, my beautiful Zatanna."
"Goodbye, my handsome knight."
Then Zatanna opened her door and disappeared behind it, closing it without another word, before Daggeron had a chance to do something he would regret. Sadly, he stared at the closed door for a moment before going back to the carpet. He climbed upon it and it began to rise up into the sky until it soared into the dark murky night.
"So how went the date?" asked Leanbow as Daggeron entered Rootcore.
Daggeron stared at his former mentor in surprise and asked, "How did you know I went on a date? I told no one."
"I have my ways," said Leanbow with a smile for his former student. "I want you to know I'm happy for you. You were always so serious when you were training to be a knight."
"Yes," admitted Daggeron.
"So how went it?"
"It went fine," said Daggeron downplaying how much he had enjoyed himself. "It bothers me however that Zatanna had to pay for our meal. I need some way to earn me some money if I am to keep dating her."
"Yes I can see your point," agreed Leanbow. "I would feel the same if it was me. So that means you need a job."
"Yes, although I do not know how I will manage it between my job with the Justice League and my training of Chip and Nick to be knights. And what could I do that I have the skills for?"
"I'm sure something will come along that will solve your problem. Have faith."
"I'll try," promised Daggeron.
"So have you thought about marriage?" asked Leanbow.
"Marriage?" asked Daggeron in surprise. "We've only just been out on our first date. Besides I don't think it will go that far."
"We'll see," said Leanbow with a small, secret smile. "We'll see," he repeated softly as he watched Daggeron leave.
Bruce landed at the airport and quickly headed towards the car rental agency. He had called ahead using the Justice League communicators to contact Daggeron through their Morphers which also doubled as comm devices. Because of that fact none of the Rangers had been given the standard Justice League communicators that the rest of the League used.
Daggeron had promised to be waiting for him in front of the Rock Porium.
"It's nice to see you again Bruce. How's Diana?" asked Daggeron as Bruce walked up to him.
"She's fine," said Bruce. "Busy with the League as usual."
"So what did you want to talk to me about?" asked Daggeron.
"Well," said Bruce slowly trying to think of his wording. "I don't want to offend your sense of honor or anything but I wanted to offer you a job."
"A job?" asked Daggeron in surprise. "What kind of job? I don't want handouts."
"This isn't a handout," Bruce assured him. "I respect you too much for that. This is the kind of job that fits your talents. Come walk with me. See I've been thinking about this for a while but it became more urgent when you started dating Zatanna."
"Why?"
"Because I guessed that you didn't use money in the Mystic Realm. I figured it was a safe bet. I can also guess what it is like to not have money of your own, especially when you want to take a beautiful woman out on a date. So I came up with the idea of you using your training to help others."
"What do you mean?" asked Daggeron starting to sound intrigued despite himself.
"I mean that you've been teaching your skills to the Rangers so why not pass those skills onto others."
"What kind of others?"
"Oh people who could use the kind of skills you can teach. People who want to learn how to defend themselves who are in dangerous professions. Like policemen for example or even someone who just wants to learn more self-defense."
"Yes, that does sound like it lies within my talents," Daggeron admitted. "Who would I train though?"
"I have several people in mind already," said Bruce. "I've actually been looking for someone I can trust with these skills for some time."
"I have one question though," said Daggeron. "Do I get to choose my own students? Because as much as it pains me to say this if I can't then I cannot accept."
Bruce nodded, "That's what I thought you'd say and if it was me I would have requested the same thing. Teaching someone who wants to learn is one thing but if that person doesn't want to be there that could hinder the training and even get them or you hurt."
"Very well then I accept," said Daggeron, shaking Bruce's hand in gratitude.
"Good, I'll make all the arrangements," Bruce promised.
"So what is involved in this?"
"Well you'll need somewhere for the training to start with," said Bruce.
"Why don't I just use the forest on the other side of Briarwood away from the Mystic Realm?"
"That will be fine for some of it, but at least the basic training will need to take part in a building."
"In other words you want to weed out those that won't make it through the tougher more advanced training."
"Exactly," said Bruce, realizing that he and Daggeron thought a lot alike.
"Good idea, anybody who gives up before the basic training is over really doesn't want it."
"As for money you will technically be working for Wayne Industries and will get a small fee for every student you accept. At completion of the training you will get the rest of the money and a bonus. Now not all your students will be sent by me so you need to have set fees for the others. A different fee for every separate skill you teach."
"Is that really necessary?"
"Daggeron you're going to need it to pay bills. You'll need equipment not to mention rental on the building and at least you don't have to pay taxes or have bills because you live in the Mystic Realm. Besides if you don't have set fees no one will think you are worth learning from."
Daggeron nodded and sighed realizing that in matters like this Bruce knew best. "I do happen to have one more request."
"Name it," said Bruce.
"I get to set the ground rules for anyone I train and one of my main rules will be that there will be no questions about my background or my past. Any such questions will be grounds for immediate dismissal."
Bruce nodded, "Okay I understand. You set the ground rules." They were quiet for a moment before Bruce continued, "You'll also probably need an accountant to keep track of finances since I doubt you the time or the desire to keep track of the bills and how much you make yourself."
Bruce then hesitated for a moment for he was loath to suggest the next thing that was a necessary evil to do business in the human world.
"What has you hesitating?" asked Daggeron.
"Well I hate to mention this but in order to run a business in the our world you need a last name, social security number, ID—"
"I see," said Daggeron and he really did. "So what do we do about it?"
"Well the reason I hesitated to suggest this is because the only thing to do would be to create a background for you and it's not exactly legal."
"Having someone do something illegal is not honorable isn't there another way?"
"Not really," Bruce answered. "If there was believe me I would take it. I'm afraid that if you are going to do business in this world you'll need these things sooner or later. Besides you aren't going to do anything illegal with it like rob a bank, so just think of it as a necessary evil."
Daggeron sighed, "Is it the only way?"
"Yes I'm afraid so."
"Very well, I suppose I don't have any choice. Not if I want to keep seeing Zatanna."
"I'm afraid not," said Bruce sympathetically. "I can create you a fake background myself. I've done it before once or twice. I can guarantee my background will hold up under even the most intense investigation. Now about that last name—"
"Just pick me one," said Daggeron. "You know more about it then I do."
"Very well, I think that's about everything. "I'll have that background and ID to you sometime in the next couple of weeks."
"I really appreciate this Bruce," said Daggeron. "I didn't mean to sound ungrateful earlier you just took me by surprise."
"I understand," said Bruce. "We can discuss pricing for your classes later let's get this settled first."
Daggeron nodded still looking somewhat dazed at the job opportunity that had just dropped in his lap. Both men talked a bit more before Bruce said his goodbyes to head home.
"Thank you for being such a good friend Bruce. You might have just made my dating Zatanna possible and for that I will always be in your debt. If you ever need anything at all, all you have to do is ask."
"It was nothing," said Bruce shaking Daggeron's hand before going up the stairs of his private jet and disappearing inside.
Daggeron then watched as the plane took off a few minutes later disappearing into the wild blue yonder.
Several weeks later life was getting back to normal after the Waynes party and Daggeron's date an older couple entered the Rock Porium. Of the couple the man was 6'5' with blond hair grown slightly long and shaggy in back with blue eyes and a face that was lined so deeply around the mouth that he looked like a hound dog. As for the woman she was very pretty if a little careworn with dark hair and green eyes. She was around 5'10' and 140 pounds. The couple walked to the counter where a red headed boy was talking on the phone to a customer and waited for him to finish.
"Can I help you sir? Ma'am?" asked Chip as he hung up the phone.
"Yes we're looking for Nick Russell," said the man.
"We were told he works here," added the woman.
Chip looked at the couple and asked politely. "May I ask who wants him?"
"We're his parents," said the woman.
Chip's eyebrows rose several notches in surprise but didn't comment for even he knew when to keep his mouth shut. "If you'll just wait here I'll get him for you. He's in the stockroom."
Chip walked out from behind the counter signaling to Vida to take over and then headed to the back and disappeared.
"Nick!" called Chip.
"Yes Chip? What is it? I'm trying to work here."
"Trying being the operate word," Chip told him teasingly.
"Look who's talking. Is this the same guy who's made fun of on a daily basis for all his weird ideas and interests?"
"Hey!" protested Chip. "So I'm into a lot of things others aren't big deal. I like what I like and if other people don't like it they can just stuff it."
"I know," said Nick. "I was only teasing. Now what is it you wanted me for?"
"Oh I wanted tell you that there's two people out in the store to see you."
"Oh who?" asked Nick.
"They say they're you're parents."
At Chip's last statement Nick looked about ready to drop the box he was holding. "You're serious?"
"Would I joke about something this important?" asked Chip.
"No," said Nick after a moment. "No," he repeated. "You would never joke about something like that."
"So what are you going to do?" asked Chip.
"What else but go out and talk to them?" Nick put his box down then turned towards the door. "Chip can you do me a favor?"
"Sure anything what is it?" For once in his life Chip was perfectly serious.
"Tell Toby that I'm taking off early."
"Why?"
"Because I'm sure my parents are here to try to get 'em to go back home with them."
"You—" began Chip.
"No," Nick interrupted loudly. "No I wouldn't," he repeated more quietly. "I have made my home here and found my real parents but convincing them to let me stay here is going to be difficult. Oh and one other thing. Have one of the others go tell Leanbow, Udonna and Daggeron what's going on will you?"
"Sure," said Chip. "You know if you need us—"
"Yes, I know," said Nick solemnly. "And thanks but now I had better get out there before they start wondering what's taking us so long."
Chip nodded and the two walked out together.
As they entered the main part of the store Nick tensed apprehensively for he was more nervous than he had let Chip know. He had not seen his parents in over a year and a half and he didn't really want to see them now. For the first time since he was young he was happy. He actually had friends for the first time in his life five great friends ten if you counted Daggeron, Udonna, Leanbow, Clare and Jenji three of those admittedly being mentors as well as friends.
He also had his duties as the leader of the Mystic Force Rangers to consider for he could not abandon his friends while they still needed him. Convincing his parents of that fact however without revealing the reason why would be difficult at best for they would more than likely insist that he come home with them. He was however nineteen and of legal age to be on his own.
He immediately went over to the older couple was waiting and silently led the older couple out the door while his friends watched him from where they were all but Chip wondering what was going on.
"Nick—" his father Daniel began as soon as they were out in the sunlight.
"Not here," said Nick. "Let's go somewhere private to talk."
Daniel looked around nervously but finally agreed.
A few minutes later they came to Briarwood Park and Nick looked around before sitting on a bench.
Look mom, dad, before you try to convince me to go back home with you let me say my piece. "I want you to know that I'm glad to see you, I am but I know to go with you and I can't." Nick said all of this before his parents could say a word.
"Nick—" his mother began.
"Please let me finish," said Nick. "I've been thinking about this for a while now. When I was growing up you were gone a lot because of your jobs. I've had to learn to take care of myself and I have. I don't believe you know your own son anymore. For the first time in my life I have friends and a job. I don't want to lose that by leaving."
Before either parent could respond Nick felt a cold piece of steel in his back.
"You two listen to me comrades. Either you hand over that disc to that digital camera or your son here gets filled with a lot of holes."
"Mom, dad what's going on?" asked Nick while trying to figure a way out of this situation without revealing himself as a Power Ranger.
Both Russells looked at each other then they both slumped in defeat for they still loved their adopted son and did not want to see him dead.
"We'll explain later," said Charlene Russell.
"If you're around that is," said one of the goons.
"Which you won't be if you do not hand over that disc within the next thirty seconds," said the third goon.
Suddenly Nick sprang into action as the goons were distracted. He spun around and kicked the man holding the gun. The man immediately fell back in surprise and before the other two could respond or even fully realize what was happening Nick did a front flip over their heads and landed behind them and then kicked all three of them in the backs sending them sprawling, but only one did not rise again for he had hit his head on a rock.
"You just made a very bad mistake comrade," said one of the two remaining goons his accent sounding thickly Russian.
"We'll see," said Nick calmly all his senses going on battle alertness and phased out all other distractions except for the two remaining hitman in front of him. He calmly waited for their approach gauging their moves. Neither one of them had guns anymore for then had been lost when they had taken their dive and kicked into the grass.
The two hit men looked at each other then tried to rush Nick at the same time. Nick however calmly backflipped and then tried an attack of his own. Within just a couple of minutes the remaining goons were lying on the grass unconscious.
Nick returned to reality to find his parents' staring at him practically in awe. It was as if they suddenly didn't recognize the man standing in front of them as their son. The boy they had found on their doorstep almost twenty years ago and taken in.
"Where did you learn to defend yourself like that?" asked Charlene as she stared at her son in amazement.
"When you've been on your own a lot you learn to defend yourself," said Nick vaguely. "Now are you going to call the police or am I?"
"I'll do it," said Charlene. "Why don't you two make sure they don't go anywhere?" Charlene then disappeared looking for the nearest pay phone.
An hour later Nick and his parents exited the police station after filling out sworn statements as too what had happened. All three of them walked quietly for several minutes the silence awkward between them. "So are you going to tell me what's going on?" Nick asked. "Why were those three men after you and what disc were they talking about?"
"Well it all began about six months ago," Daniel began. "As you remember we had taken that photo assignment in Prague. Just as we were about to head home we got a call from our boss and he asked us to do one last photo assignment for him."
"It was in the Soviet Union. Our boss wanted us to take pictures of something over there."
Let me guess you found more trouble then you bargained for," said Nick.
"Yes we did. We found people being tortured as well as other inhumane things. A lot of the people live like animals.
"Especially the poor," added Charlene. "The poor were treated like cattle in a lot of cases while the rich and powerful practically lived like royalty."
"You got pictures of this and they found out about it. They then sent their goons after that disc to get it back."
"Yes," said Daniel. "That about covers it."
Nick shook his head. Sometimes he wondered how his parents had survived so long. Didn't they realize how much evil there was in the world? Of course those goons were after them they would want that kind of information to get out.
"Well at least they're in jail now," said Charlene.
"Ah mom I hate to burst your bubble but they'll be out on bail in less than a day since all they could be charged with was assault."
"Then perhaps we had better get out of Briarwood," Daniel suggested. "After all we're photographers not fighters."
"Nick can come with us," Charlene suggested.
"Mom don't you understand? No matter where you go they will follow you until they either get what they want or get tired of chasing you, kill you and take it anyway. The only way to solve this is to get them deported. Besides I've never run from trouble and I don't intend to start now."
"But Nick those guys are killers," Daniel protested.
"I know dad, but they're really after you not me. I don't want to be running for the rest of my life and always looking over my shoulder for the bad guys in the shadows."
"He's right honey," said Charlene. "If we run we're going to be running for the rest of our lives."
"But what can we do?" asked Daniel.
"I don't know but we'll think of something," said Charlene putting her arm around her husband's shoulders.
"Nick you're right we have left you in the care of babysitters when you were younger—a lot. We didn't consider that children need stability, affection and love as we went on gallivanting around the world and dragging you with us when we could. When you got older you had to learn to be independent and to take care of yourself because again we were gone so much. I guess we never realized what an impact our absence would have on you."
"It's okay dad, really it is. I understand that it was your job."
"But we could have gotten jobs at a newspaper or a magazine as photographers and stayed in one city."
"No mom, dad that isn't you. You wouldn't have been happy if you couldn't travel and I know that. I have found a life here in Briarwood for not only do I have friends I have a job."
"Yes, I believe you mentioned that earlier," said Charlene with a fond smile.
"Perhaps you have finally found your niche," Daniel suggested.
"I never thought if it like that, but yes perhaps I have."
Meanwhile in Rootcore three people watched the globe as Daniel suggested, "Perhaps you have finally found your niche."
And Nick responding, "I never thought if it like that, but yes perhaps I have."
"Well I think Nick is handling the situation of his adopted parents showing up rather well," said Leanbow.
"Yes he has grown up quite a bit," said Udonna.
"Did you see how he took out those three men all by himself and without his powers?" asked Leanbow the pride obvious in his voice. "You have taught him well Daggeron."
"Thank you Leanbow," said Daggeron bowing. "But a lot of Nick's skill has little to do with me and more to do with his natural talent. He has taken to the battle training like a duck to water."
"Which reminds me of someone else I know I wonder who?" said Udonna with a smile in Leanbow's direction. "Bowen is very much like his father."
"We still have problem," said Daggeron. "I have learned much of the human world in the seven or eight months since I've been transformed back into my former self and I'll tell you right now those kind of men that attacked the Russells do not give up easily. Once they get out on bail they will go after them and although Nick can take care of himself his parents cannot. If we do not do something all three might very well be dead before the week is out."
"But what can we do without revealing ourselves?" asked Udonna. "Also I don't think Bowen would appreciate the interference."
"Nick would not have asked Chip to tell us what was going on if he hadn't wanted us watching in case of trouble," Daggeron pointed out.
"True," Udonna admitted. "Not so very long ago Bowen would not have had someone tell us what was going on and he would have tried to handle it himself."
"And gotten himself into more then he could handle," said Daggeron.
"Bowen probably wasn't expecting trouble, but felt it better to be safe," added Leanbow.
"Or maybe he has," said Daggeron. "I mean his parents come into town suddenly without calling and giving him any warning. So either they are extremely rude or they knew they were being followed."
"What could possibly be on that disc that is so important?" asked Udonna.
"Oh any number of things but didn't Nick's father say something about torture going on over there?" asked Leanbow.
"And that they had a disc of it? That explains why those men are after them," said Daggeron. "Any government would do anything to keep that kind of information under wraps."
"Including killing for it?" asked Udonna.
"Absolutely," said Daggeron, "Whether or not they thought it necessary to do so."
"So what do we do?" asked Udonna.
"For now nothing except; keeping an eye on the situation. When and if he needs us we can be there fast," said Leanbow.
The other two nodded in agreement and went back to watching what was happening in the crystal ball."