Lost in a maze of dreams / My eyes are unseeing / Yearning I search for you / In the midnight air / I turn and I find you there / My angel of evening / Softly I call your name / come to me - In the Dark of the Night - Paul Schwartz
"WE LOVE YOU, WONDER WOMAN!"
"I love you, too. All of you. Now, it's getting late, and I know some of you need to be at work tomorrow. So do I. There will be a formal press conference in the morning, I'll answer your questions then. So for now, good night...my suns and stars."
"Good night, beautiful."
Home, Hearts, and Heroes - Book 7: Home Ch. 2: Life Before My Eyes
Good Night
"You go first." Dick pointed to the fire pole.
"Why?" Bruce asked.
"To make sure you pay up."
"You think I'll go back on my word?"
"I know you. You'll find a convenient excuse, and it'll delay the exchange indefinitely."
"I got this," Diana said. She wound her arm around Bruce's waist and drew him over to the fire poles. "We're going this way."
"You shouldn't slide down in that dress, you'll mess it up," Bruce chastised.
"Who said anything about sliding?" Firmly taking her husband in hand, Diana stepped off the side and slowly floated down. She leaned forward and whispered in his ear.
Bruce smirked. "Add this to the list?" She nodded. "Different, strategically challenging, and...uncharted territory. We could do it." They disappeared down the shaft.
"Hey, don't you two start your honeymoon in there!" Zatanna yelled after them.
"Reconnaissance and research. We have a mission to complete." Bruce's voice echoed around Diana's laugh.
"Oh, no you don't. You're not going to disappear down a dark hole by yourselves." Zatanna grabbed Dick by the hand. "Llaf wols!"
"What...ack!" Dick flailed as Zatanna pulled him with her over the shaft's edge.
"Put your arms around my waist… my waist, Dick. Not there."
"I grabbed what was closest. Give me a warning next time!" Their voices faded as they descended through the tunnel.
Three figures stood silently in the library. Alfred turned to the two women. "Your Majesty?"
"I fell out of the sky today. I want to go that way." Hippolyta pointed towards the clock.
"Understood. Miss Gordon?"
"I could slide down, but I might run into something...private. I'll ride with you two."
"Good choice. This way, please." Alfred turned the clock hands to their secret combination. "I'm glad we were able to get you alone. We want to propose something we think you'd be perfect for."
"Really? What is it?"
"Something that works in the background, but would cover the globe if done correctly. We're looking for a few new recruits." Alfred said.
"But we need to know if you refuse, you'll still keep it secret," Hippolyta added. "Many enemies would try to stop us if they knew this was a part of a long mission."
Barbara leaned back in her chair. "I'm intrigued. Let's ride down and you can give me the short and dirty summary."
Moments later, the trio exited the elevator to find Diana glancing up through the opposite pole shaft.
"So?" Alfred whispered to Barbara.
"Count me in. You can give me more details when you bring my chair to me tomorrow."
"You're already thinking ahead. We did well by telling you," Hippolyta said.
"It's about time I heard something being done. I get as frustrated as you do, so I'll do everything I can to help." Barbara leaned forward. "Do they know about this?"
"Not yet. There is a bit to do before they can become involved," Alfred revealed.
"But this is part of it? Their marriage?" Barbara asked.
"We're still learning about that. We'll try to tell you more later," Hippolyta answered. All three nodded in understanding. "Now let's find out why my daughter is looking up into a dark hole." They traveled over to the woman in white.
"Hey, get down here! Don't steal our ideas!" Diana yelled into the shaft. Bruce was nowhere to be found.
"We're not doing that," Dick responded. "We already know you and Bruce want to be the first ones to do 'the dirty' down the fire poles. I'm showing Zatanna something first."
"I'm sure you want to show her lots of things, Dick, but not there!" Diana threw back.
"Was that unnecessary emphasis on my name? Because if it was, you can call me Richard."
"Why? What's wrong with the name Dick?" Diana asked innocently. A feminine laugh echoed down the shaft.
"That's because 'dick' is another name for…"
"Don't teach her that! Then I won't be able to look her in the eye." More laughter from above. "So, this is what I wanted to show you, why Bruce dismantled the automatic uniform changer."
"Hold on, I want to see, too." Diana floated upwards through the tunnel. "Where are you... oh, there you are." Gasp "Is it supposed to look like that?"
"Nope," Dick said.
"Ooooh," Zatanna's voice reverberated low. "That must have been...terrible."
"It was. Now, all uniforms are changed manually. To make sure accidents like that don't happen again."
"Good call," Diana agreed. "Alright, let's go. I'll carry both of you down. Bruce said he was preparing something for you, Dick. Said it was contingent on you getting his car."
A sigh whispered in the tunnel. "Knowing him, it won't be good for me."
"He was smiling when he said it," Diana added.
"Not good. Not good at all," Dick groaned.
Diana landed with her arms around the two younger heroes' waists. With no effort, she set them down gently, then readjusted her dress. She walked over to her mother, took her hand, and escorted her further into the cave.
"Makes you glad to have the power to change with a twirl, doesn't it?" Hippolyta asked.
"It sure does. Though I didn't find out about it until later. I used to wear the uniform underneath my civilian clothes."
"That had to have been uncomfortable."
"It was. Then one day, I was trying on a skirt and twirled to see it move. The armor suddenly appeared! Flash knocked on my door to find out why I screamed. After I sent him away, I kept turning and turning to see it appear and disappear from my body. I got dizzy after a while."
"If you had stayed on Themyscira, I could have told you about that."
"If I had stayed on Themyscira, you would have forbidden me to even look at the armor."
Hippolyta took a breath to retort, then sighed. She nodded in agreement. They walked in silence, neither wanting to acknowledge the truth of that statement.
Diana abruptly perked up. "So, how did it feel to have had the Champion's powers again? I bet you missed it."
"Not at all. It actually felt...wrong. I'd given them up long ago, they no longer felt like they belonged to me. I've done fine without them."
"I've always wanted to know, if I hadn't taken your armor -"
"And ran away," Hippolyta added.
"And did what I thought was right," Diana corrected, "would you have given it to me?"
"I was thinking about it," Hippolyta admitted. "Part of me wanted to keep you as my Right Hand, but I could see you were advanced in your fighting skill, and you were always concerned about the good of the kingdom, it seemed you deserved it."
"'Seemed'? I wasn't your first choice?"
"My first choice? Maybe, but it would have been up to the gods. Knowing them, they would have had a trial or contest to see who was worthy. That's what they were planning for you before all this happened. I took your place."
"Then you earned the powers again…"
"I earned the right to give you the choice. I guess you could say I wrestled the decision out of the gods' hands and gave it to you."
"You are indeed a powerful queen, Your Majesty."
"No. I was giving my daughter what she deserved. Her own life."
"Then you're a great mother, too."
"Who would have guessed? Antiope said she felt sorry for any child of mine. She couldn't imagine me as a parent."
"Well, you were a trial to put up with…"
"Look who's talking! You thwarted almost every rule I had sworn to uphold. The Senate won't let me hear the end of it!"
"Guess I inherited more than your good looks. The scrolls tell of your adventures and heroism, it was all I could do to live up to those. But later, those who fought with you had a few things to say. I heard some interesting stories about you."
"Which ones?" Hippolyta paused to listen. Diana grinned at her and kept walking. Hippolyta rushed to catch up. "Which ones?" She repeated.
"Bruce, my love!" Diana called, conveniently ignoring her mother's pointed looks. "Are you almost finished? It's getting late."
"Almost. Just a few more details...there." Bruce walked away from the equipment area and joined the two royals. "I heard what Dick was showing you. Not one of my best ideas."
"I can see why you designed it, though," Diana said. "Seconds count when responding to an emergency."
"It made me think differently when designing our uniforms. Had to be easy to put on, and Dick insisted that his outfit reflect his heritage with the circus. That was a challenge."
"But his Nightwing uniform is more like yours. I wonder what changed his mind."
"What else? I wanted to be more like my old man," Dick interrupted. Bruce glanced at him doubtfully. "Come on, Bruce. I couldn't look like a carnie for the rest of my life. I still love the good ol' 'R' symbol, but I needed to evolve. Make something of my own."
"And you became a headache at the same time," Bruce said, balefully.
"And you were being such a...a..." Dick paused. "Parent." His face scrunched in disgust.
"It was my responsibility to train you. There was still a lot you needed to learn..."
"And you weren't giving me an inch so I could grow. Me and boxes don't mix, but I felt like I was stuck in one." Dick retorted. "You were trying to stuff me in a cape and cowl, when all I wanted was a mask. I couldn't be you. I had to be myself."
"That's a shame, because that's the contingency on getting my car." Bruce pushed a button on a suspiciously covered cylinder. A hatch turned to reveal its contents.
A Batsuit loomed over them, a shadow cutting a hole in the cylinder's light. Even without its wearer, it exuded a dark, foreboding presence. Closer inspection found a utility belt blending into the armor. Not one buckle shone, not a single button gleamed. Everything was coated a matted black.
Two low whistles sounded from behind.
"That is so YOU, Dick!" Zatanna whispered.
"It even looks like it was tailored for you," Barbara added. "It looks smaller than Bruce's."
"That's because it is," Bruce confirmed. He glanced over to his gaping son. "I'm not going to stuff you into it, but you have to wear it if you're going to drive my car."
"Why?" Dick asked. He couldn't take his eyes of the suit.
"Batman is a symbol. And like all symbols, it has to stay consistent if its going to have an impact. Having Nightwing piloting the Batmobile contradicts that image. Should someone see you exiting the cockpit, it has to be a figure wearing the cape and cowl, not a mask."
"You planned this," Dick said. He turned towards Bruce. "You knew that I would ask for the car one day. You were waiting for me to take the bait."
"You give me too much credit. I wasn't expecting you to ask for my car."
"You weren't?"
"No. I was expecting you to ask me to design your own."
"Well, now that we're on the subject…"
"One thing at a time. Come here." Bruce waved him over. Dick stood still. "I'm not going to touch you, but I have to point out some features. You need to see this if you're going to put this on properly." Dick paused longer. Bruce sighed, threw his hands out in surrender, and stepped back from the display.
Dick slowly walked up to the suit, keeping Bruce in his peripheral vision. He moved his gaze around the armor, his nose almost touching it in his inspection. His eyebrows furrowed in thought.
"This is too small for me, Bruce. There's no way I'll fit this. You sure you didn't design this for Tim?"
"No, he's going to take a bit of consideration. I wasn't expecting him to return to the field. Now that I see it'll be good for him, I need to upgrade his uniform. He's growing too fast." Bruce took a chance and stood beside Dick. The younger man ignored his mentor. Both inspected a particular button.
"That's the part you needed to see," Bruce said, pointing. "That activates the mechanism that loosens the armor so you can put it on. Arrange the pieces into their respective areas, push the button, and the suit will adjust to fit you perfectly." He pointed to the shoulder pauldrons.
"I kept your flexibility and acrobatics in mind, so you'll have the ability to move freely. But the joints fit over each other, covering the gaps with overlap. The Kevlar underneath is also stretchable and breathes well, so you'll be comfortable on a hot summer night."
"You thought of me while designing this? How did you know it would…" Dick turned abruptly to Bruce. "You tested this out, didn't you?"
"Yes," Bruce confirmed. "However, I didn't use this particular suit. There were a few prototypes before this. Those were woefully...inadequate. This is the culmination of all the improvements to the defects I found. This will be the first night this goes out."
Dick stepped back from the display, obviously touched. "So, I have to wear this to drive the Batmobile," Dick stated. Bruce nodded. The younger man considered the new Batsuit. An expression of longing crossed his face, then dissolved into annoyance.
"I know you mean well, but I'll have to pass. I already have a uniform, one that fits me better than this one. Not that this isn't tempting. You can include these enhancements in my next Nightwing uniform."
"I understand," Bruce said. He stepped away from the display. "Well, it's time for you to go. You can use any car upstairs to take the ladies home-"
"Wait...No!" Barbara exclaimed. "Dick, come on! It's only a suit. Batman... Nightwing... who cares!" She leaned forward. "It's the Batmobile that's the prize. You've wanted to drive that forever. It's right there, all you have to do is wear the new uniform."
"Barbara, you know how long I've worked on my identity," Dick said.
"And you're only borrowing this one for the night," she retorted. "It won't do any harm to wear it for a few hours. Bruce made that just for you."
"I haven't worn a cape in years," Dick argued. "I don't remember how to move with one."
"Try it out again, for a little while," Zatanna reasoned. "Besides, if Gotham sees you patrolling instead of Batman, they're going to think he's out of commission. You'll be holding up his reputation. Consider this a wedding present for him." She sauntered up to Dick and ran a finger down his arm, leaning closer until her body touched his. "And...I really wanted to ride in the Batmobile," she purred.
"Ah, the truth comes out," Dick groans. "You don't want me, you want the car."
"We want both," Barbara said. She leaned against the arm of her chair, glancing at him through her lashes. "Hot car, sexy man in a dark suit…" she fell back loosely, "all that power in chrome and Kevlar."
"And you'll have us with you," Zatanna murmured in his ear. "I have magic, she's our eyes, and you have a very flexible...brain - we'd be quite the team out there."
"We would make a great team, wouldn't we?" Dick said, looking at Zatanna's temptingly close face.
"It'll be like old times. All you have to do is...wear the suit," Barbara nearly whispered.
"Wear the suit," Zatanna echoed. "Come on, Dick. You know you want to."
Dick glanced back and forth between the two women. Totally engrossed in their cajoling, he didn't notice Hippolyta's raised eyebrows, Alfred's eye roll, and Diana holding herself back from laughing. Bruce stood silently, a knowing smirk on his face.
"You really want to go out with me tonight?" Dick asked both women. They nodded. "And you want to ride in the Batmobile." Their heads bobbed more vigorously.
"Mobile surveillance," Barbara moaned. "Terabytes of intel... gadgets galore!" She sighed.
"Fine, fine! Don't have an orgasm right there, I'll go change." Dick quickly retreated to the display. Pushing a few buttons, the hatch closed around him, giving him the privacy he needed.
Bruce strolled over to Barbara's chair. He sniffed dramatically towards her. "Smells suspicious. What pheromones did you use on him?"
"That's not pheromones, that's my perfume," Barbara answered. She shook out her hair and stretched languidly. "Not all interrogations have to involve violence." She winked at him. "You taught me that."
"You prove the attentive student," he purred.
"Well, I need a minute to calm down," Zatanna said. She gave her own body a stretch. "Between the three of us, that turned me on." She glared at the newlywed couple. "How am I stuck in this predicament again? I'll need something to get rid of the tension."
"Try lightning. Worked for me," Diana advised. Zatanna perked up at that idea and nodded.
"Either Dick is easily swayed, or you have some strong convincing powers," Hippolyta said incredulously.
"No on both of those," Barbara said. "Dick is adamant on keeping his own identity, but he's admired the cape and cowl for a long time. We gave him an excuse to have both."
"And have some fun with him, too," Zatanna added. "Though for a moment, I thought he was going to refuse us."
"It takes many years to build an immunity to that," Alfred said. All eyes turned to him. "Don't ask me how I know this."
"Something you learned in the field, AP?" Bruce muttered. The butler glared at him.
"Given some time, we could have gotten Master Alfred to sit down," Hippolyta quipped.
Alfred blushed. "I was tempted to give in. The only thing that could tear me away from a beautiful woman was my assignment." He sighed. "Unfortunately, I had too much practice in that sense."
He suddenly straightened to attention. "So, while you prepare Batman for his night out, I will go pack his Nightwing uniform for the journey home." Alfred paused. "That had the potential of being very confusing." The butler calmly walked away.
"He drops a clue and disappears," Bruce droned.
"A skill you learned well," Diana said. Bruce shrugged.
Suddenly, a hiss announced a door's opening. A figure emerged, slowly and with menace. It was as if a shadow separated from the cave's dark corners and threatened to envelop any who dared stand in its way. From the tip of its sharply pointed ears, down to a pair of thick, fortified boots and the hem of a sweeping cape, all was a shade of soul-sucking black…
Except for the darker, fear-inducing Bat symbol.
"This feels good," the figure growled. He lifted his arms to test out his mobility. "This feels REALLY good."
Bruce stepped up to the foreboding figure. "You wear it well." Dick smiled. Bruce's eyes narrowed. "You shouldn't do that. Batman doesn't smile."
"Right, right. Dower, humourless… brooding. Gotcha." The grin on his face said otherwise.
"Don't believe him, Dick," Diana said. "He allows the slightest ironic smirk to come out now and then." She walked over and gave him a look over. "I could mistaken you for Bruce, if you weren't standing side-by-side."
"He's not as tall, either, but makes up for it with great posture," Hippolyta added. "It would be easy to believe he is you."
"Batman is a shadow, so everyone's description of him varies," Bruce said. "Dick's fast, so they won't be able to tell that it is another person watching over the city." He inspected various aspects of the suit, adjusting a buckle here… an armor feature there… tugging at the cape to cover a shoulder better…
"Bruce, I know how to dress myself," Dick said. He firmly took Bruce's hand and laid it down to his side. "Stop worrying over me."
"Who said I was worried?" Bruce retorted. Dick readjusted the cape over his shoulder. Bruce instinctively reached up to put it back. Diana walked over and took his hand. She gave it a pat, but didn't let go.
"That suit looks more menacing. How come you don't wear that one, Bruce?" Barbara asked.
"My current suit has some modifications specifically for me. I'm not ready to change it out yet." He glanced over to another, sealed cylinder. "Besides, I'm testing out another prototype. I made Dick's suit with him in mind, but I want to get feedback on some features. See if they're compatible with the next evolution."
"What's the next evolution?" Dick asked.
"Self-propelled flight."
"Whoa." Dick turned to inspect the display.
Bruce pulled him back. "One suit at a time."
"Come on, B! Help me into the Batmobile," Barbara said. "I need to familiarize myself with the controls." Dick stood still as Bruce stepped forward. "Wrong 'B', guys. I mean the one with the cowl."
"Oh," both men grunted. Bruce nudged Batman towards her.
Dick ducked his head. "That's going to be hard to get used to." He walked away, his movements exaggerated as he tested the suit's flexibility.
Hippolyta stood beside Bruce. "Strange to see someone else wearing your armor, isn't it?"
He nodded. "Something you could relate to."
She smiled. "Yes, but know that it has been handed down to the right person." Hippolyta glanced at Diana. "Though I trust it won't take eight months to see him again after taking it."
Diana blushed. "I was busy! Things to do, a League to form. I returned as soon as I… remembered to."
"I already thought about that," Bruce said. Both women looked at him. "This is the only night that suit will be operational. It won't conform to his body after he takes it off. It'll need to be reset here before he, or anyone else, can wear it again." He felt two incredulous stares. "He'll like it so much, he'll come back when I tell him his new Nightwing uniform has the same enhancements."
"That's one way to bring him home," Hippolyta quipped.
"I'm not above using bait," Bruce said.
"Or turning a wager to your advantage," she answered back. "You lost a bet, yet somehow it worked in your favor."
"He does that," Diana droned.
"So Master Alfred tells me," Hippolyta said. "Now if you'll excuse me, I want to see what is so impressive about this Batmobile everyone keeps talking about." With a nod, she walked away.
Bruce wound his arm around Diana's waist. "You're not still sore that I called you on your bluff the other night, are you?"
"No." Her lips pursed into a pout at his insistent look. "Okay, maybe I am. I thought I had outsmarted you, but I know how to stop you next time."
"And how is that?"
"Shut you up before you can start your interrogation. Nip it in the bud, don't let you get a word out."
"And how mpf!" Diana kissed him. "Wait, I want to know -" Bruce grunted as she kissed him again. "Look, Princess - " He growled low in the back of his throat as Diana kissed him deeply.
Bruce inhaled as they parted. He opened his mouth to retort. Diana tipped towards him. He shut his mouth with a snap. "See, I know how you work." She pecked him lightly on the lips.
Bruce pulled her more firmly against his body. Tucking his finger under her chin, he kept her face towards his as he stared into her eyes. Her breath stuck in her throat as his thumb stroked her cheek, then traced the curve of her lip. She sighed as he leaned forward. Her eyes closed in anticipation…
The pause between them was broken only by the voices echoing through the cave from the Batmobile. Diana waited. And waited.
Nothing.
She opened her eyes to find Bruce looking away, smirk firmly planted on his lips. She raised an eyebrow expectantly. He took a breath, and continued to stare to the side. She glowered. He blinked.
"I'm waiting." His innocent glance grated on her nerves. "Aren't you going to say something?" His raised eyebrow conveyed his doubt. "Look, I didn't mean for you to keep your mouth shut for the rest of the night. I just wanted to show you how I can anticipate one of your interrogations."
"Do you?" He asked.
"What?"
"Do you?" He looked into her eyes. She frowned. "Do you really know when I'm interrogating you?"
"Of course I do!"
"Hmm," he grunted, then straightened his posture. Diana groaned at the impending lecture. "Draw out your suspect with silence. Many feel uncomfortable when they're holding on to important information, and they want to fill the void. They ramble until they give up their secrets, or their body language gives them away. They blurt out demands, or... " he kissed the frown line between her brow "her eyes speak without her mouth saying a word."
"I'm not afraid of you."
"I know you're not. That's what makes it fun to mess with you."
"You're going to do this throughout our marriage, aren't you."
"Yes, I am."
"Great." The corner of her lips curled upwards as he gave her the kiss she wanted.
Hippolyta strolled over to a portion of the cave devoted to a large metal machine. She understood that Man's World had these things called "cars" that traveled faster than horses, but caused horrible pollution. While such contraptions were convenient, she wondered if they were worth it at the cost to the environment.
The object of such admiration loomed ahead. Hippolyta had to admit, this chariot had power and aggression in mind; if this had been a steed, its name would be Aganippe. Even without wings, it looked like it was ready to take off and wreak havoc on the land.
Dick pulled Hippolyta aside as she approached the Batmobile. "Ah, I wanted to let you know that… um, I'm sorry."
Hippolyta reared back. "Sorry? For what?"
"Your loss." He looked down at her furrowed brow. "Your story about your sister, Antiope. You spoke so highly of her, I can see you still love her."
"I do. I miss my sister very much…" She eyes widened in understanding.
"You told of how your mother favored your sister because she was the next queen, but you're the Queen of the Amazons, not Antiope. I read between the lines. Something happened to her?"
"Ah...yes. She was killed in a war I led. I watched it happen. I inherited the throne, then we became immortal. "
Dick drew her into a hug. "You blame yourself for that, don't you?" She nodded. "That must be hard to live with."
"It is. So many things I could have done differently, words I shouldn't have said…"
"Could have, would have, should have...don't do that to yourself, Polly. That'll drive you crazy."
"I know. If my mother taught me anything, it's to show no weakness, straighten your back in authority, and take control." Hippolyta stood regally. Then she relaxed and sighed. "Only in the privacy of your own chambers can you hug your pillow and weep."
Dick laugh derisively to himself. "Or hide out on the top of a skyscraper during a storm and let the rain mask your tears. I know exactly what you're talking about."
"You are wise beyond your years, Master Richard." She reached over a touched his cheek not covered by the cowl. "Or should I say Batman."
His lips pursed into a straight line. "I never thought I'd be wearing this." He held out his arms to inspect the spiked gauntlets. "Yet, it feels natural. I don't know what this means."
"Just because you wear your father's uniform doesn't mean you have to follow in his foot steps. Make your reign your own. You define the outcome."
"Is that what Antiope did?"
"Yes, and even now her example inspires me." She glanced over at her daughter. "Diana did the same thing. She wears my armor, but she defined her mission. I think she makes a better champion than me."
"I still think it's cool that there was another Wonder Woman other than Diana. You must have seen all types of things."
"There's a library of scrolls recording those adventures. You should read those some time."
"Are you sure that's possible? Your island doesn't allow men."
"I'm the queen and I say you can. Besides, Batman is an honored comrade among our warriors. The mantle is yours, even if temporarily. That makes you welcome to our ranks." She nudged him teasingly. "And there's one Amazon I'm sure would be glad to see you there."
"Do you think that's appropriate? I mean, Donna's my aunt now…"
"You're related how? Donna's an adopted daughter, so her bloodline aligns with your world more than ours. While she holds a place as my child, she's free to choose whomever she wants to pursue."
"I don't know, it still seems weird. Diana married to my father, Donna her sister...you're my grandmother…"
"Don't over think it. Our gods didn't. Their escapades were far more extravagant than you courting my daughter. Though you might still have a hard time with that." Dick's posture straightened at the challenge. Hippolyta fought against her smile. He really looked like "Batman" at that moment.
"Donna enjoys her independence between our worlds," Hippolyta continued. "She's not the next queen, so she's had more freedoms than Diana, yet she holds a portion of the Champion's powers, so she is mighty among your people. Good luck getting her to hold still."
"I don't want to hold her still, I want to date her!" Dick blurted out. Hippolyta raised an eyebrow. He clamped his mouth shut. "I mean, I would like to court your daughter, Your Majesty." He bowed low.
"Don't ask me, ask her." She moved away from him, then turned back. "Though, if you came bearing gifts, I might be able to arrange a… date? She likes watching sea turtles on the beach. I like chocolate."
"Chocolate...chocolate. Light or dark? Have you tried white chocolate? That's good, too."
Hippolyta perked up. "There's more than one kind?" Her excited question was met with a conspiring smirk.
"Oh, we're going to be good friends, Your Majesty." Dick held out his arm to lead her to the Batmobile. He strode to the passenger side where Barbara inspected the control panel. He leaned down towards her ear.
"Have you figured it out yet?" He growled low. She bounced in surprise.
"Don't do that!" She shoved him away. "Damn, you sounded like Bruce there for a second."
"I've heard that voice for so long growing up, I can almost mimic him perfectly." He cleared his throat. "It's all in the attitude. The timbre is hard, though."
"That's a shame. I think some of this is voice activated." She pushed random buttons.
"Computer, voice recognition." Both jumped at Bruce's voice from behind. The computer chirped its readiness. "Transfer secondary command to new user, enter vocal imprint here." He nudged a piece of paper into Dick's hand. "Read this."
Dick expected a complex series of words and numbers that would confirm his identity. He paused in confusion.
"I'm...Batman?"
"Voice imprint denied." The computer intoned.
"Try that again, without the uptick," Bruce said.
Dick cleared his throat. "I'm Batman." He pitched his voice lower, with a bit more gravel.
"Voice imprint accepted."
"Damn, that's going to hurt my throat," Dick said. He rubbed his neck in emphasis.
"You didn't have to be that harsh. I don't sound like that."
"Yes, you do." Barbara, Diana, and Dick said. Each received an annoyed glare.
"I can hit you with a flu spell," Zatanna called from the back of the car. She reclined to take up the entire seat. "Just the aftermath. You'll have that growly, deep voice easily." She tapped her nose. "Without the nasal congestion."
"I'll just act like he usually does," Dick said. "Brooding, looming, and silent. Easier on the vocal chords."
"Practice that voice, because you're going to need it," Bruce said. "Barbara, access the Batmobile's main computer. I uploaded the schematics for Dick's suit. There are some features that are activated by voice command. Those will keep his hands free for combat."
Barbara followed the orders. An outline of a Batsuit appeared on the dashboard screen. Diagrams indicated features at various places along the figure. Each contained a series of words in bold.
Bruce pointed at the outline's feet. "Say this one."
Dick read the words. "Engage heel rudders." He jumped when he felt two clicks near his ankles.
"Those will help you control your glide should you need to travel through the air," Bruce explained. "This works with the cape's wing capabilities, or if you need to make a mid-air detour while swinging on a line."
"Or it can add extra emphasis should I need to kick some sense into a perp."
"I taught you well," Bruce said. "Say that," he ordered, pointing at the display again.
"Disengage heel rudders," Dick intoned in his Batvoice. The gadgets retracted back into his boots. "What if I need to stay silent?"
Bruce nodded at the intelligent question. "There are various ways to active the suit's features. Each has spoken and manual activation cues. Memorize those."
Barbara whistled low. She tabbed through a long list of keywords. "We should stick to the basics tonight. There are a lot of features to go through on this uniform. We'll map out a perimeter that has a variety of obstacles. I'll relay keywords as you do your patrol."
Dick pulled up a map of Central City Gotham. "We'll go through here, then." He unconsciously spoke with his deeper, harsher voice. "The buildings run along the raised tracks, and the roofs are uneven. There's a wind tunnel that occurs there when a train comes through. The terrain will be challenging enough to test this suit sufficiently."
Bruce turned to Zatanna in the back seat. "Any way you can position yourself in strategic points along the way?"
"Sure," she said. "Just tell me where I need to be and I'll appear there. Why?"
"To spot him," Bruce said, pointing at Dick. He let a mild smirk play across his lips. "Catch him if says the wrong thing at the wrong time."
"Don't need it," Dick growled. Bruce reared back at the aggression in his voice. "I've performed without a net for years."
"No offense, Batman," Bruce said. Both men paused, then shook their heads. "Safety first. I found out the hard way how difficult it can be to remember specific words while in the middle of an exercise. Having a spotter would have helped." He rubbed his arm in memory. "That's how I found out how inadequate certain precautions were. It took me a while to recover from one particularly nasty fall."
"I will be there when you test out your other prototype," Diana said. "I will not have my husband become a Batsmudge on the sidewalk."
"Thank you," Bruce said with a relieved sigh. He pointed at Zatanna. "That's your job tonight. No…," his cough sounded too much like a laugh, "Batsmudges left on the street." The sorceress simply touched her fingers to her head in salute.
The car rocked slightly as Alfred closed the trunk. He brushed his hands together in satisfaction and strolled to the front. "I've loaded your Nightwing gear and civilian clothes in the back, Batman. I've also put together a number of leftovers that you can have after your night's patrol. Leave your uniform in the trunk when you're finished and I will make sure it returns to the equipment silo for cleaning." He handed over an insulated bag to Barbara in the car. She took them eagerly.
"And that's how I know I'm officially 'Batman'," Dick said. He smiled. "You're there watching after me." He put a hand on Alfred's shoulder.
"Batman, Nightwing… it's all the same to me," Alfred droned. Dick's lips pulled down to a chagrin pout. Alfred put his hand over his. "That means I will be there to watch after you, as best I can." The young man's smile beamed through the cave. "Though, I think you're well covered tonight."
"We got him, Uncle Alfred. You rest. You've done enough," Zatanna said.
"Thank you, Miss Zatara. I will take advantage of this evening's respite." He gave her a sidelong glance. "And I appreciate the measures you've placed upon their room."
"What measures? What room?" Bruce asked, his voice deep in concern.
"I placed a noise dampening spell on your room," Zatanna revealed. "Alfred and I wanted to make sure you had a good evening, but he mentioned your proclivity of… ah… proclaiming your pleasure. I had passionate parents. I know what he heard."
"Couldn't keep that to yourself, could you?" Bruce droned.
Alfred folded his arms across his chest defensively. "Tim talked in his sleep when the women tucked him in. 'Hope they're quieter tonight. I have school in the morning,' he said. Miss Gordon interrogated him and found out more."
"Taking advantage of a boy's vulnerability," Diana chastised. "How could you, Babs!"
"Oh, I found out a few things from Mister Drake, though I'm not sure if he knew it was me. He said all sorts of things, including that I'm pretty and some of his gadget ideas," Barbara said. She gave Diana a significant look. "The kid's a genius, he needs his sleep. So Zatanna went to your room and performed a sound dampening spell. I planted the idea in Tim's head that he should clean his room."
"I didn't teach you subliminal suggestion, Oracle," Bruce said. "When did you learn that?"
The tactical Bat looked at him and smiled. "You find out all sorts of things when you work for a library. I have access to info that's not on the public shelves."
"Put that book on hold for me. I'll check it out next," Bruce said. Barbara nodded. He turned at a touch on his shoulder.
"So, before Batman goes out on patrol, there are a few things I would like to discuss with the Wayne household," Alfred said. "Would you ladies stay here for a moment?"
"Of course, Master Alfred," Hippolyta answered. "I would like to say goodbye to my new friends before they leave." She watched as Alfred, Bruce, Diana, and Dick moved farther from the Batmobile. She turned back to the women in the car.
"I can call you my friends, yes?" Hippolyta asked.
"Of course!" both Barbara and Zatanna crowed. Hippolyta smiled.
"I can't say I've had many people I could simply call 'friend'," she murmured, almost to herself. "It was such a pleasure meeting both of you. This day has been the most unexpected blessing."
"The same for us, Polly," Barbara said. "We got to see Bruce marry Diana… sort of... and that brought you into the family." She reached over and took Hippolyta's hand. "Never would I have thought I could call the Queen of the Amazons 'friend'."
"And it's because of you that Bruce called us here. 'To even out the ratios'. It would be over some logic like that," Zatanna said, adding her hands over Barbara's and Hippolyta's.
"Then I look forward to seeing you both again," Hippolyta said. "I'll have some expert guidance when navigating Man's World incognito."
"Yes...about that," Barbara interrupted, her voice lowered. She glanced over to the other group; Diana had her back to them. "I've already thought of a detail we'll need to discuss." Hippolyta tilted her head in question. "Your name. Hippolyta is a bit… um… foreign to our ears. And anyone with a smartphone can look up its origins and the cover is blown."
"And Polly's a name associated with little girls in our culture. We need something...grown up," Zatanna added.
"Suggestions," Hippolyta said, regally.
"Hmmm…" Barbara and Zatanna hummed. They stared at the queen critically.
"Hipp...Hippa…Hippo..." Barbara muttered to herself.
"NO! Not that, Babs," Zatanna chastised.
"Of course not," she threw back. "Hippol...Pol...Paula…"
"Paula. That's pedestrian enough."
"Nah, Zee. She doesn't look like a 'Paula'."
"If you're going to use derivatives of my name, how about…" Hippolyta thought, "Lyta."
"Oooh...yes!" Zatanna crowed.
"Light - ah," Barbara pronounced. "That suits you. Like your bright hair."
"And a last name?" Zee asked.
"'Queen'?" Babs suggested.
"Appropriate, but that'll make her related to that guy in Star City."
"They look like they could be. Blond hair and all…"
"How about 'Prince'," Hippolyta interrupted. Her eyes fidgeted towards Diana. They paused to think.
"That's a bit of a misnomer, but I guess it works," Barbara commented.
"I like it. Lyta Prince. No one would ever guess you were the Queen of the Amazons." Zatanna squeezed the hand underneath hers. Suddenly, a bouquet of blue and white roses landed on their joined hands.
"What is this?" Hippolyta picked up the bundle and held it up for inspection. The other women gasped.
"Uh oh! You're next!" Barbara leaned away as far as she could.
"Oh, I wasn't ready. I wanted to catch it!" Zatanna said, pouting.
"I don't understand," Hippolyta said. She looked back at the other group.
"Interesting," Bruce said. "Is it possible?" He looked at Diana.
"Possible? Yes. Probable… I don't think so," she said.
"She has many qualities someone would find attractive, don't you think?" Alfred looked over to Dick.
"Most definitely," the younger man said. "But would she be open to it? That's the question."
"What are you talking about," Hippolyta said. She placed a hand on her hip and waved the bouquet around with the other. "What is this? What am I next for?"
"One last tradition to cover, Your Majesty," Alfred said. "You caught the bouquet. That marks you as next in line."
"What am I agreeing to here?" Hippolyta eyed the flowers balefully.
"Why, Mother," Diana said, sweetly. "You're the next to get married."
It took a moment for the words to sink in. Then Hippolyta's eyes widened in understanding. She swiftly turned to the women in the Batmobile. Barbara ducked away again, covering her head with her arms. Desperate, Hippolyta found the only other target…
"Oof!" Zatanna was hit in the face by a bouquet of Diana roses. She recovered quickly and held the prize in glee. "I got it!" She grinned at Hippolyta, who was rubbing her hands on her dress.
"What do you think?" Alfred asked, looking at Diana.
"Not my tradition, I don't know."
"If this was real love magic, she got the brunt of it," Zatanna said, using the bouquet of flowers to point at Hippolyta. "This is mine now. Could mean I'm the next to get a boyfriend." She grinned towards the other group.
Dick used his cape to cover his head. "Don't look at me." He peeked out from under the cloak. She winked at him. Batman ducked under his cape again.
"Stop. You're making me look bad," Bruce chastised.
"You did that yourself," Dick retorted. He pointed at Diana. "I would have snapped her up the minute she showed interest."
"Ah, tradition asserting itself again," Alfred said, sighing facetiously. "Batman shying away from a beautiful woman that's right in front of him."
"We both know he has his eyes on another unattainable woman, don't you Dick..." Bruce spoke to empty air. "You can speak," he growled, folding his arms across his chest. "'Good bye, thanks for the car, I'll be careful'...something."
Batman charged towards the Batmobile, cape flowing behind him. Abruptly, he came to a halt in front of Hippolyta. Without a word, he picked her up into a hug and twirled her around. Hippolyta's laugh echoed through the cave, their movements a swirl of blond, peach, and black. She returned the hug with glee.
Taking a few steps away from the Batmobile, Batman gently set her down. He placed a gloved hand over his bat-symboled heart and bowed low. Hippolyta nodded her head. Still without a word, he rose and kissed her on the cheek.
"How could Donna ever resist you?" she whispered in his ear.
"Wish I knew," he answered.
"I'll find out," she breathed back. Hippolyta touched him lightly on the cheek. Batman took her hand and kissed the back of her fingers. Then with a flourish of a cape, he turned from the queen, jumped into the Batmobile and closed the cockpit. A roar announced the engine's ignition, and wheels squealed on the platform before it surged forward.
Hippolyta waved at the retreating vehicle, then coughed at the exhaust left in its wake. She walked over to the remaining group. "Dramatic, charming, and leaves a lasting impression," Hippolyta croaked, swiping at the smoke. "He is your son," she said to Bruce.
"He's a Wayne, with Grayson flair," Alfred confirmed.
"That's why I call him 'Bruce Junior'," Diana added. She looked over to Bruce. "What's wrong? You look worried."
"I am worried," he said. His arms were still in their folded place over his chest.
Diana placed a comforting hand on his bicep. "Dick is in good hands. He has Barbara guiding him, and Zatanna looking out for him. And between your training and the suit, he's well protected…"
"I'm not concerned about Dick. I'm worried about my car." Bruce said. His brow furrowed deeper. She groaned in exasperation. "That's the last time I allow the Batmobile to be used in a wager."
"Only use it in bets that you are sure to win," Alfred advised. "Then your opponent will know you're serious. High stakes make for huge wins."
"Or huge losses." Bruce paused. "I should track him," he said. He unfolded his arms and took a step forward. "Monitor how fast he's going, where he's at…"
Diana took his arm and pulled him back. She put extra power behind her grasp to catch his attention. "You will leave Batman alone to do his job. You're mine now."
Bruce looked back and forth between the Batcomputer and his wife. He glanced over to Hippolyta.
"I'm out of this!" She lifted both palms up in emphasis, then walked away.
Alfred put a hand on Bruce's shoulder. "Do I need to explain the concept of priorities?"
Bruce shifted his gaze to the hand on his shoulder, then the woman pulling at his arm. He gave the computer one more glance, then turned his back to it. "No, I know what needs my attention. But if you could…" he leaned towards Alfred and whispered in his ear. The butler nodded his head.
"Of course, Master Bruce. I can arrange that. Stay here for a few moments and I'll have that ready in no time." Alfred shuffled away. Hippolyta waited for him, then held out her arm. His eyebrows raised in surprise, he took her elbow and let her lead him to the elevator.
Diana watched as the two elders left the cave. "I never thought I'd see those two together. They seem to really like each other."
Bruce nodded. "I have to say, I had quite a few preconceived notions on how that meeting could have happened. None of those fears panned out."
"I think it's because they care for us," she said. "Though, I have a feeling there's something else going on. Like they're holding onto some kind of secret. Did you see the looks they were exchanging through the day?"
"I did, as if they were confirming some kind of agreement." Both heroes paused, considering the evidence...
Bruce turned back to the woman in his arms. He leaned down and gently kissed Diana on the lips. "Do you mind if I take care of a few things before we turn in?"
"If you do that, will it be the last 'Bat' things you do tonight?"
"Yes."
"Then by all means." Diana let him go and waved him away. Bruce took her hand and pulled her along. She tucked a tendril of hair behind her ear, pleased with her inclusion.
They approached the cylinder that housed the new Batsuit. Bruce reached over to turn off various sensors, then stepped back to consider the area. Diana waited patiently beside him.
"Come here," he said, holding his hand out to her. Head quirked to the side in curiosity, she complied. "Step in there for a moment."
"You going surprise me with a Batsuit, too?"
"Actually…" he ran his eyes up and down her figure. She leaned her weight back and crossed her arms. "We can reuse this design silo to figure out your Nightgale uniform. I wanted to see if you fit inside it."
"Dick did, and I fit most of his old clothes, so I'm willing to take another one of his hand-me-downs."
"Didn't even think about it that way." Bruce put a hand to his chin in thought. "A Nightwing-type uniform would look good on you."
"I don't really need so much armor. I'm tough."
"Some of it will be cosmetic, but other features will be functional. No powers when working with me, remember?"
Diana put her hand to her forehead in dramatic thought. "Right...no flight, no super strength. Do I have to pretend to bleed if I get hit?"
"Train like I do, you won't get hit."
"Do I get to wear a cape?"
"You want one?"
"Tempting." She held out her arms as if she was flying like a mutual friend of theirs, then shook her head. "Let me think about that."
"I'll keep that in mind when I take your measurements. A cape can act as a shield, or camouflage a movement…"
"And it can be used for a theatrical flourish," she quipped. She raised her arm to her face as if she were hiding her identity.
He pulled her out of the silo. "I always liked it for that reason."
Bruce escorted Diana to the main computer array. He turned his chair around, sat down, and pulled her into his lap. She wound her arms around his neck and started playing with his hair. He gave a small laugh.
"Keep doing that, and this might take a while."
"Oh, you like that?"
"Mmmhmm." His posture relaxed even more when she massaged his neck. "You know that's what started all of this."
"I would have kept going, too, if you had let me."
"There was an experiment to perform. I had things to do."
"But you were so tense."
"And you were ready to start trouble," he growled back. He tickled her side to softened his tone. "I was having a rough day. I'm glad you came through."
"You didn't seem like it. I thought you were trying to escape."
"I was, but only because you were making me forget about work."
"Like now?"
"Like now… is that what you're trying to do? Distract me?"
"I don't know," she whispered against his ear. She nibbled his earlobe. "Am I distracting you?"
Bruce tilted his head to the side as she moved her lips from his ear down his neck. He closed his eyes and breathed in deep. Suddenly, he twisted the chair towards the computer, eliciting a surprised squeak from Diana.
"Not at all," he said. He shifted in his seat to adjust himself, then patted her leg. "Nice try though."
Diana cleared her throat, then scooted to a better position on his lap. She wiggled against a suspicious hard bump under her thigh. "Nope, not distracted at all. You're a very disciplined man."
"Yes, I am." He leaned towards the computer console and pushed a few buttons. His cheek conveniently rubbed against the soft swell of her breasts. "Computer, pull up schematics for Batsuit prototype D2." The screen displayed an outline of a very familiar figure. "Monitor vital signs and record bio, mechanical, and geographical data."
Diana's brow furrowed. "Geographical?"
"The computer will record Dick's location in a three-dimensional format. I'll know where he is, how fast he's traveling, and his altitude. I'll know if he's testing out the ariel features."
"I see. So you can analyze the suit's performance, or his?"
"I know he's capable, but I want to see how he handles the suit, and the suit handles him."
"Why don't you simply ask him."
"I will, but this will augment the anecdotal information he gives me. If he says, "the joints jammed up when I did a flip", I'll be able to analyze the results to find out why."
"Smart. Very thorough."
"Thank you." He leaned forward to flick a switch. Diana reached for his shirt and unfastened the top buttons. "What are you doing?"
"Analyzing your suit. You know, monitoring your vitals while you work. Bio and mechanical functions. Making sure you can handle it. Don't mind me, keep doing what you're doing."
"Right." Bruce tried putting a reprimanding tone in his voice. He stretched his neck as Diana's fingers worked their way down, then moved his shirt open. She raked her nails over his abs through his white undershirt. He grunted.
"Something wrong? Am I distracting you?" Diana asked.
"No and no." He twisted the chair so he could push a few buttons to the side. Diana pulled up his undershirt and stroked the coarse hairs along his abdomen. Bruce breathed in through his nose to mask the feelings she was causing in him. Each caress found her fingers dipping lower.
"What was that?"
"Huh?" He glanced down quickly at where her hand was.
"The buttons you pushed. What were they for?"
"Oh." He shook his head to clear out his excited thoughts. "I activated a connection to the Batmobile. It will record what they're doing, and anything they might find - whoa!"
"Found it," Diana said. She rubbed her hand firmly over the bulge in his pants.
"Yes, you...uh...did." Bruce closed his eyes to enjoy the feeling of Diana stroking him through his clothes. She nipped at his lower lip and massaged the nape of his neck with the other hand.
Reluctantly, Bruce shifted away from her caresses. "Unless you're helping with the investigation, keep your hands to yourself."
"Yes, Your Highness," she said, coyly. He stared at her lips.
"Say that again."
"Yes, Your Highness."
"That's so sexy."
"Mind on your work, Your Highness. You have an investigation. Keep your attention there." She turned his head back towards the computer.
Bruce fought against her directions for a few seconds, then relented. He squinted at the information on the screen. "Looks like they're trying out some of the features. The cockpit hatch have been raised, and the Batmobile parked." He turned a knob. "They're in Center City Gotham."
"Already?"
"It's late Sunday night, no one is out on the roads. And look how fast he was driving."
"Oooh. He'd be a great Javelin pilot." Diana leaned forward to look at the map. "I recognize those streets. They're near where all that stuff happened last night. Think they're going to investigate more?"
"Looks like it. The terrain has various obstacles that can test suit features." He looked down as Diana tugged at his zipper. He hadn't even notice she had unbuckled his belt. "What did I say about keeping your hands to yourself."
"I'm testing equipment. Got to open the cockpit first to get to it. Pay no attention to me."
"Uh, maybe we should take this upstairs…"
"Nonsense. You have to monitor their progress. I'm occupying myself until you're finished. Never let it be known that Wonder Woman hampers Batman's work in any way."
"No...no," he grunted. "She's only been helpful." He shifted again in his seat. His eyes half lidded in desire, he fought to concentrate on the data on the screen. "The suit's sensors say that he's above street level. Looks like he found a building to perch on. A good place to begin patrol - dear God almighty, Diana."
"That's 'Sweet Aphrodite' to you, Your Highness. All praise to Her for her beautiful gifts."
"Yes. Praise...Sweet...Diana." Pants fully undone, she had pulled him out of his clothing. Eyes closed, Bruce leaned back against his chair as Diana stroked him. His hard member throbbed in her hand.
"Am I distracting you now?" She murmured in his ear. He nodded his head vigorously.
"Yes...yes, you are."
"Really?" Diana ducked down to suck on his neck. Bruce groaned deep, his body automatically moving to her caresses. "There's a red light flashing on the screen. What is that about?"
Bruce fought to open his eyes. "That's…" he swallowed roughly, "That's Dick falling at a rapid descent. He's activated the cape's wing capabilities. I programmed the computer to record his flight details… no, what are you doing - " All words left his mind as Diana descended from his lap and on her knees.
"You weren't distracted enough. I think I can do better." She lifted his undershirt farther up his body, exposing his rippling abs. She alternated between light licks, gentle nips, and tiny kisses as she teased him. She continued to move lower.
"Diana," Bruce groaned. An involuntary grunt escaped his lips as he felt her warm, wet tongue skim the tip.
"Hhmmm," she hummed. She took him fully in her mouth. The vibration added to the sensation.
Bruce's mind was reeling from the situation. Women have tried to please him in various ways, each with a predictable script. They all had an ulterior motive when seducing him, either while wearing a business suit, tuxedo, or Batsuit. Except for a few, they were casual encounters. He didn't care for them afterwards, nor they for him once they found out they couldn't get into his other pockets.
Now, he had the most powerful woman in the world handling him in the most intimate way. Instead of intimidating him, it excited him even more. All she wanted was his attention, and she was taking it. And… she was doing it in the Batcave. At his computer, while he sat in his command chair.
No woman had done that before.
Bruce reached down and touched his fingers to her hair. With her updo, it kept the tendrils out of her face. He unconsciously kneaded her scalp in encouragement. Her head bobbed up and down as she added suction to her ministrations.
But when he lifted his pelvis to aid her movements, she pushed him down with one hand while holding his manhood with the other. She was exerting her dominance, and this frustrated him more. He was the one who set the pace. Women complied. They all wanted something from him.
This was yet another time Diana had taken control.
His body shook as Diana sucked hard. Bruce nearly came, but then she let go, licking his tip as she continued to taste him. She set a steady rhythm, which he matched with his heavy breathing.
He was near the edge. The tension was building up. He clutched the arms of his chair, holding on for dear life. Gods, he wanted to explode. He anticipated a release…
Diana disengaged him with a pop. Bruce's eyes opened wide in surprise. His breaths escaped his mouth in heavy gasps. She looked back with a lazy gaze.
"Are you distracted now?"
Bruce vigorously shook his head. "N...no." She glared. "I am totally and completely focused on you." Diana made to stand up in victory.
He grabbed her and attacked her with a kiss. His tongue entered her mouth with vengeful force. She answered in kind. He wrestled with her lips until he was sure he bruised himself. She pushed him back into his chair with firm resolve.
"Please," he gasped. He didn't care how desperate he sounded. "Please don't leave me hanging."
"I won't," she responded calmly. "But we're going to take your suggestion. I think this cave has seen enough of our action for the weekend. We're taking this upstairs." She took his hand and lifted him out of the chair.
He immediately wound his arms around her waist and pulled her to him. His body reacted automatically - his hands roamed her body, he leaned her against the computer console. He reached down to wrap her legs around him…
Diana pushed him back again. "I said...upstairs."
Bruce glared into her eyes. "Then get us there."
Diana grabbed Bruce by his jacket's lapel. He took advantage of the movement and shoved himself on her. He felt her hands descend, tuck him back in, zip and button his pants. He was still hard for her. Everything felt uncomfortably tight down there.
Then she wound her arms around his waist. Knowing what was coming, Bruce included his arms in the embrace. She tightened her hold, then started to float.
They were suddenly streaking through the cave. He held onto her; between his sexual frustration and the speed, he was feeling light-headed. Diana approached the cave's elevator, then abruptly veered towards the fire pole tunnels. Two figures shot upwards through the shafts. The couple entered the library.
"Keep going," Bruce ordered, his lips close to hers. She grinned and hitched him higher in her arms.
"Hold on." They flew through the manor's foyer, up the stairs, and to their room in barely a breath.
The door slammed behind them as Diana let him go. He took advantage of her loosened grasp and attacked her mouth with the same fervor he gave in the cave. It rankled his ego that she seemed to smile through the assault.
Diana turned her head away, disengaging the kiss. "Do you want me to continue my investigation?" Her hands unbuckled his belt and unzipped his pants in the process. It pleased her to find how excited he was for her.
With a growl, Bruce grabbed her hands and shoved them above her head. He held her by the bracelets as he reached down to lift her dress past her thighs. He positioned himself between her legs and eagerly thrust forward. He groaned in frustration when he came upon a fabric barrier.
Found the other pair. Dammit!
"That's not going to stop you, is it?" Diana teased. Her smug attitude grated on his nerves. He let go of her limbs and lifted the dress over her head. He paused, breathless - the white bra and panty ensemble barely covered her, but it was enough to stoke his lust even more.
He nearly tore off his clothes in his haste to feel her. Most of it had already been undone, so no buttons were lost as he threw his shirts to the ground. He moved so fast, he couldn't even remember how he got his pants, briefs and shoes off.
There was that part of him that wanted Diana on her knees, finishing what she started, but he didn't appreciate how she left him on the edge. Forget how he did it to her on the medical table. He needed to exact revenge.
They moved with lustful heat as their hands groped each other. Bruce grasped her backside with one hand as the other unfastened her bra. A random cell in Diana's brain held a thought of admiration for him - she needed both hands to put the damned thing on. He only used a flick of the fingers to get it off.
Bruce let the lacy lingerie fall to the floor. He loved how soft her breast felt in his hand, full and heavy. He took her in his mouth and teased the nipple into a hard peak. He continued to suck on the mound until her hips started grinding against him.
He wanted to drive her to the edge of orgasm before making her beg for him. His own plea hung between them, and he needed to hear the same words from her. He bent to his knees and let his mouth travel down her body. A hand on his shoulder made him look up.
Diana's eyes stared into his, and he saw the triumph in her gaze. Keeping his eyes on hers, he followed the line of her midriff with his tongue. He intended to dip only once into her navel as he drifted downward…
He paused. He licked again, and considered her bellybutton. She tasted...sweet? He recognized the flavor vaguely, but wasn't sure. He gave the area a quick suck.
She tasted like honey.
Bruce glanced up at her again. This time, she stared off to the side, a blush staining her cheeks. His pause caused her to look down, then away again. She pursed her mouth against a smile.
"Was that waiting for me?" Bruce asked. Biting her bottom lip, Diana nodded. He blinked in surprise. "Any more?"
She glanced down at him again. Tongue delicately licking her upper lip, she tipped her head to the side. He knew a "yes" when he saw one. Looking around her stomach, he wondered where it was. Then his gaze dipped lower…
He groaned when he spied the barely there white panties. They taunted him, dared him to take them off. Instead, he nudged the skin right above the fabric. Honey-scent and her unique musk called to him. Her hips surged forward.
As if they had a mind of their own, Bruce's hands tugged at the panties and pulled them down. He was most concerned about finding the source of the delectable scent. The tiny slips of fabric fell as he parted her legs and nuzzled the inside of her thighs. He scratched his nails behind her knee. She spread wider for him.
He smiled at her gasped breathing. He made sure to avoid her pleasure center, instead nipping at her hipbone, her leg, just to the side of her groin…
Diana nudged her pelvis towards him. He was driving her crazy. Why won't he take the bait? Each touch teased her to the point of frustration. Just do it already!
A throaty laugh reached her ears. She looked down in annoyance. Bruce looked up at her as if waiting for something. "I'm not finding what I'm looking for. Perhaps I should look somewhere else," he purred.
"What?" she gasped. "No, don't stop."
"Don't stop...what?"
Diana continued to strain towards him. He used his fingertips to caress her everywhere BUT there. She angled her hips to follow his hand, twisted to capture his tongue, but he avoided her every time.
She grit her teeth together to hold back the statement. She resisted the words, but inside, she knew she deserved this torture. Part of her was annoyed at his ability to turn a situation around to his advantage...again... but, she let a laugh out, instead.
"Don't stop, please, Your Highness." She nearly collapsed as he sucked on her with a vengeance. Only by using her flight power did she not fall on his face.
Bruce lapped eagerly at her womanly folds, tasting the sweetened area. Between that and her natural flavor, he couldn't get enough. He tongued the nub, and she responded with a rapturous cry. The concentration of honey had settled there, and he intended to consume every bit.
Yet with each lick, Bruce's own frustration skyrocketed. She pushed him to the edge, too, and he felt himself harden even more with her moans. He needed to be inside her. They needed to finish this together.
He lapped at her until her gasps became mews of delight. Each whimper spurred him on to tease the area that got the most reaction. He twirled his tongue in circles, her cry became one long moan…
Bruce left her wailing in frustration as he stood, nibbling his way up her body. Only when he stood erect did he finally give in to their lust. He stepped between her legs, positioned himself, and thrust deep and hard inside her.
Their bodies slammed together, yet they did not hit the wall. So rocked by his forceful entry, she pushed back instinctively, which meant she hovered to keep from banging against the door. She wrapped her legs around his hips and let him control the rhythm. He grasped her shoulders, keeping her at a perfect thrusting height.
Bruce rammed into her as hard as he could. She was squeezing him so tight, he almost had difficulty moving at all. He nearly asked her to lighten up, but instead slowed down to add a twist that had him rubbing her. The answering rush of moisture helped lubricate them both, making it easier to plunge into her again… and again … and again…
She rocked his world when he suddenly found himself flying through the air, landing on the bed, and Diana bouncing on top of him. He vaguely registered the bed frame cracking and mattress springs breaking. Her hips grinded mercilessly with him inside. Bruce gripped the bed covers, his eyes squeezing shut as she took over his body. He wanted to come so badly, he needed to make her scream.
He opened his eyes to watch Diana ride him. Her rapturous face and full abandon nearly made him explode. Her breasts bounced freely, and her hair fell out of its updo and upon her shoulders. Her mouth hung open, and gasps of delight escaped. He knew it was coming, that she was near…
Just as her moan of pleasure started, Bruce threw her on her back, twisted above her, and continued to fuck her senseless. Her screaming only spurred him on. She scratched at his back and his rhythm increased.
Diana wanted more. She lifted her hips, allowing Bruce to pound deeper. She rose higher, and her back floated off the bed a few inches. That gave him more leverage on his knees, and she squeezed. That earned her a deep, manly groan. She spread her thighs wider, allowing him to thrust faster.
Their mouths battled with ferocity. Both tasted themselves on their tongues - sweet, salty, and musky. Lips fused together, they surged towards their orgasms. Bruce came first, filling her with hot seed. Wet and tight, Diana's back arched as she followed, her body shaking in pleasure.
Their rhythm might have slowed down, but the force didn't. They continually grabbed at each other. Bruce earned new bruises on his shoulders as she kneaded his muscles. Diana nearly gave herself whiplash the way she couldn't control her head's twisting in overwhelming pleasure. He grabbed her hair then sucked on her neck. She squeezed him again, from the inside…
His second orgasm caught him by surprise. He released another load into her, and his body lost its rhythm as it convulsed. His cry ricocheted around the room, pleasing Diana to the core. She caressed his neck as he calmed down, his breathing labored, sweat dripping from his body.
Their bodies flush against each other, and their limbs tangled together, Diana lowered themselves on the bed. She allowed Bruce to settle on top of her, a comfortable weight in her arms. His chest still heaved from his exertions, and she couldn't help but match it. She ran her fingers through his sweat soaked hair.
Muscular arms wound their way around her body. Bruce nestled against her neck, and breathed in her scent. He relaxed and pulled out of her. Adjusting for comfort, he continued to hold her close.
Without a word, they looked into each others eyes. Diana touched her fingertips to his temple. Bruce brought up a hand and caressed her cheek with a thumb. Silently, their eyes closed and lips touched.
The kiss lingered. They lifted away only to do it again. Their eyes opened, a glance shared. A signal passed between them.
The fell into another kiss. Bodies writhed as they started to move together again. He might need a moment to recover, but it didn't mean he couldn't please her in the mean time. His hands roamed her body, caressing her here, touching her there, massaging, stroking, petting, fondling…
The next session was slower, but just as hot. Just as passionate.
And no one heard a thing.
Take my hand and if I'm lying to you / I'll always be alone / if I'm lying to you...