Wayne Enterprises

R and D department

In the end, their undercover investigation hadn't amounted to much. While Victor Theophil Fries wasn't exactly a popular co-worker, he was universally well-respected. His research into both cold and warm agglutinins was unprecedented, pioneering, and his department financials were pristine. With Alfred's help, they'd gotten his little known name onto the Legacy Foundation's financial needs bulletin, and a large sum of federal grant money had been secured. Firstly, because to all appearances (and to Thomas' wishes that WE remain first and foremost a medical and public research facility) Fries' cause was worthy; and secondly, such a circus of charitable media attention merited a personal tour of Wayne Enterprise's CEO and Board.

And, to Dr. V. Theophil Fries' permanent delight, it was one of those rare instances when heir Bruce Wayne was both sober and awake long enough to accompany them.

The inspection had been quite thorough, and Lucius had been satisfied. Bruce remained wary.

…as the Batman, Fox supposed he had to.

"Let's continue to keep an eye on him," Bruce mumbled in the guise of reviewing the grant's wording. "Just in case."

Fox filed the document back with the others. "Mr. Wayne, so far we've found no evidence of impropriety."

"So far," Bruce grunted. "He's been in the shadows for a long while now, he's had the time and space to hide. If there's anything illegal, the publicity will force his hand."

"Of course, Mr. Wayne. And then what?"

The rest of the WE board members shuffled hurriedly past. Bruce checked his watch, complaining loudly he'd be late for lunch date and ordered him to ready the driver for the benefit of their impromptu audience. "We catch him in the act of moving or destroying it."

"I see," Lucius nodded, paging Alfred Pennyworth on the office phone. "And will you be attending the gala, or shall I observe him?"

"Will I? Need you even ask?" Bruce finally broke character. "Free alcohol? Rich, attractive women all vying for the spotlight with their open checkbooks?" he grinned. "Bruce Wayne wouldn't miss that for the world."

Fox chuckled. No, indeed, Mr. Wayne. No indeed.


Next Chapter: Cameron Shaw attends the Wayne Legacy Foundation gala for a personal interview with Dr. Fries.