Disclaimer: I do not own Young Justice or Danny Phantom. Just my ocs and how they fit into the storyline.
Family Ties
Wayne Manor
September 20, 18:25 EDT
The clear reflection in the crystal-framed mirror frowned back at its owner. In a few minutes, the frown of annoyance had to be concealed by a brilliant smile of joy and adornment. Two emotions Leila rarely enjoyed to reveal. It was even more annoying with her new looks of a professional wig with fiery, auburn hair and gleaming, green contacts. Make-up was heavily applied to further change her appearance for the grand announcement of her being the new, adoptive child of Bruce Wayne. Shades of hot pink blended with dark purple and outlined with silver points highlighted Leila's green eyes and black, fake eyelashes fan out around them. A raptured pink hue of lipstick accented Leila's small lips and she was donned in a slim black dress. She will now be known as Danielle Roth in her civil attire. It was probable that the Shadows already know Leila's relations with Batman- a.k.a. Bruce Wayne- but no one else was allowed to figure out the connections. With Leila's attendance to Gotham Academy in a few days, and Artemis attending as well, the evidence of possibilities for identification couldn't be afforded.
Leila gripped the edge of her bathroom counter tightly, annoyed that she had to attend school and appease the stupid press of Gotham. As if she didn't already have enough on her mind, now she had to worry about her worldly appearance as a member of the multi-billionaire, Wayne family. Leila couldn't see how Bruce or Dick could stand this much attention and still be sane with their duties as the Dynamic Duo. Now her days will consist of constant bombardment of cameras and crowds of people trying to meet the 'real Danielle Roth'. If only they knew. Knew that beyond this world was a dimension of ghosts and chilling powers even to surpass Superman.
Maybe Bruce wouldn't mind a point where she would let her powers slip to have the crowds draw away from her chilling aura. Leila shook her head at the thought, knowing exactly how Bruce would not approve. Batman was not happy that his two birds went missing for a week. Livid that a ghost hunted them, and even more in the fact of being unable to find out for what that purpose was yet. Leila hasn't figure it out either, but she had a high presumption that Vlad and the Shadows were still hoping to have her; further reasons just to show the concern behind the mask Bruce had for her. Yet, he still was moving forward with his plan of her attending school and formally announcing her as his new adoptive daughter. Scowling, Leila applied the 'final touch' of her make-up. After all, she was the new daughter of multi-billionaire Bruce Wayne; she had to look perfect.
A small knock was heard and Leila quickly went to open it. Standing at attention in proper statue was none other than Alfred, who gave a small smile at her appearance,
"Evening Mistress Leila. Or should I say Mistress Danielle. A rather interesting appearance- but in hindsight...I like Leila better. Are you ready for the dinner party?"
Leila gave her last grimace before smiling at Alfred and nodding, switching into her character of a classy and bubbly young woman for the event.
"Thank you Alfred. And of course. Nothing better than an exciting party to dance the night away."
Leila gave a small eye roll before winking at Alfred. Leila Benson finally disappearing in replacement with Danielle Roth. The only give away to Alfred's professionalism was the small lift of the corners of his mouth before he held his arm out to escort Leila down the hall towards the grand staircase of Wayne Manor.
Leila could hear the flashing of cameras and the buzzing whispers as the large crowd awaits her arrival, Bruce and Dick already gaining center attention with their dashing smiles. Alfred set Leila just out of eyesight of the cameras, at the top of the grand staircase, as Bruce announced her presence, grabbing the attention of everyone as he stood in the center stage of the room and it became silenced.
"Good evening everyone. As head figure of Wayne Manor and a proud father, I am please to announce the official adoption of my daughter, Danielle Roth. Orphan by the tragic accident of both her parents death, I welcome her, with my son Richard Grayson, as the new member to the Wayne family."
Leila instantly flashed a smile as the camera lights blinded her. Descending the staircase with gracefulness, Leila waved in excitement as the crowd applauded before taking Bruce's hand. She could sense their shock and awe at her appearance, a form of elegance with wavy, auburn hair crushing waves against her form-fitting dress. **Just a few more hours...a few more hours** Leila chanted to herself as she continued to fake smile for the crowd. Glancing out of the corner of her eye, Leila could see Dick's jaw dropped in awe.
"Please enjoy yourselves." Bruce commanded with a smile, quickly leading Leila away from the center of the bottom stairway towards one of the decor tables within the grand ballroom. Nothing was belittled in decorations for the occasion, dozens of clothed tables were decorated with glass centerpieces and the room held a gleam like a royal ball. Leila continued to smile as several paparazzi fled behind her. The questions were easy enough to answer, simple introductory questions about herself, until Bruce became sidetracked with congratulation compliments. Suddenly it felt like a tidal wave of paparazzi was crashing down on her.
"Miss Danielle, how do you feel being the newest member of the Wayne family?"
"Miss Danielle, will you be attending Gotham Academy?"
"Miss Danielle, what are your feelings for Richard Grayson?"
"Are you two together?"
"Miss Danielle, what happened to your parents?"
Leila blinked a thousand times, her smile faltering just slightly at the corners of her mouth. Stuttering for once, as her eyes becoming blinded like a bat. Memories flashed before her eyes from hearing the last question and Leila froze.
"Well I...I...I-"
"May I have this dance? Miss Danielle."
Instantly, the flashings of lights were replaced with crystal blue eyes and a cocky smile. Dick had successfully swept her away from the crowd of cameras to the dance floor. Her nerves back in check as Leila was allowed to breath. The trill of a harp blended into piano chords as a slow song began to engulf the room. Several other dance partners surround the middle of the room with the two birds, blocking the paparazzi. Leila felt herself relaxing into a small smile as Dick gracefully guide her in a simple, three-step waltz.
"Boy Wonder can dance now huh."
"Thought you might need some saving back there- first time can be little whelming with all those cameras." Robin noted in a pleasant voice but scrunched his face slightly at the last part. Leila quickly nod in agreement as she laughed,
"A little? Please tell me it's not always like this is it? How can you stand it?"
"It's more bearable now."
"Hmm and why's that?" Leila questioned innocently, yet a slow smile could be seen peeking through her lips.
"A dance is always better with two Danielle." Dick replied with a wink as he gave Leila a twirl, "I'll like to say you look beautiful tonight but...I prefer Leila in all honesty." Dick had lower himself closer to Leila, whispering his compliment in her ear so as no one would hear but her.
Leila glanced away, she could feel butterflies fluttering in the pit of her stomach, but she also realized she was letting her guard down. **Remember Leila; it's just for the event. ** Keeping her girly demeanor though, she gave a quiet thank you, smiling as she let the live orchestra music resound through their steps.
*You're in my arms, and all the world is calm.
The music playing on for only two.
So close, together.
And when I'm with you.
So close, to feeling alive. *
Leila realized that she could stay like this forever. She felt alive. She felt the warmth as Dick and her danced; more alive than ever before since gaining her powers. Other than the obnoxious make-up, being with her little birdie allowed all her worries to melt away. A shiver had begun to crawl down her back and as Dick turn the pair of them around, Leila gasp at what she saw. Vlad Masters was smiling as he stood across the room, watching. In a sleek, black tuxedo, Vlad's tall eminence darkens as his eyes flashed red. Leila's eyes falter, the temperature around her seemed to drop slightly. Glancing back at Dick, Leila knew that he noticed her split second of worry.
"What's wrong Le-Danielle?"
Leila knew she had to keep Dick away from Vlad. Keep him distracted. Whatever Vlad was here for, it was for her; she knew it was only a matter of time. Leila quickly gave a smirk-smile to her partner, hoping she'll be convincing.
"Nothing. Just thinking what will the press say about us dancing."
Dick suddenly seemed to realize that they were dancing more like a couple than newly brother and sister and he instantly became red. The reaction that Leila knew would distract him. Although embarrass, Dick only moved slightly apart from Leila and regained his jocular statue,
"Afraid of a little publicity Danielle?"
"Hmm no more than attending school again. Cameras I can handle but high school." Leila scrunched her petite nose at the thought as Dick chuckled, twirling Leila around again. Vlad seem to be everywhere. Every time the two birds turned, Vlad would appear behind Dick's shoulder across the dance floor. Despite her lack of getting cold, Leila felt an icy dread surrounding her. Vlad seeming to appear everywhere she looked was not comforting. Leila, however, didn't want to ruin the moment and instead focus on Dick's caring eyes; ones that match her real ones and were like crystals.
*We're so close to reaching that famous happy ending.
Almost, believing this one not pretend.
Let's go on dreaming for we know we are...so close, so close…
And still so far...*
Dick twirled Leila one last time before dipping her as the music ebbed away. Bringing her back up slowly, Leila felt an electric buzz zap through her as Dick held her. Cameras were flashing rapidly but it seemed like neither of the two birds cared. Both smiled at each other before Dick cleared his throat, taking a small step back,
"Would you like me to get us some drinks?"
Leila's face froze; Vlad had suddenly appeared behind Dick, smiling. Leila's stomach flinched, upon blinking though; Leila realized that Vlad was still across the dance floor and standing near the curtains of shadows. Shuddering slightly, Leila quickly recomposed herself, wanting Dick to stay as far away as he could from that malicious, fruit-loop.
"Why thank you Dick. That'll be very nice."
Leila flash a brilliant smile as further gratitude while Dick shyly brushes his hand through his slick, black hair and starts heading towards the refreshment table. Leila suddenly tenses as she spins around to find Vlad leaning over her, a sly grin etched across his face.
"Well, good evening Miss. Danielle. A lovely name and, may I extend my personal congratulations. A happy day for the Wayne family."
Leila narrows her eyes slightly, but produced a fake smile as cameras continued to capture her every move.
"Mr. Masters. Why thank you. That's very kind of you. Are you enjoying yourself?"
Although she wanted to strangle Vlad, Leila kept her composure. She had to find out why Vlad chose now to suddenly appear and a fight of any kind would not be proper at such an occasion. Even if it would be satisfactory for Leila to garrote the man who made her what she is today. Vlad merely chuckles under his breath, taking Leila's hand and forcing her to twirl around. It was only when she was again facing Vlad that he bowed to her and replied,
"Why of course. The Wayne family always knew how to throw a party. Did you enjoy my early congratulations gift last week? I heard a little bird was caught in on it as well, no?"
Leila glanced worriedly behind her, seeing Dick in conversation with the commissioner's daughter, Barbara Gordon.
"Oh did I hit a sore spot. As you can see, it's obvious he doesn't like you. Just look how he talks to her." Vlad leaned over Leila, holding both her shoulders as he whispered in her ear, "You really think he'll like a little ghost like you? You're dead- at least not fully alive either. Stuck between two worlds where neither accepts you. And what about your little friends hmm?"
Leila couldn't move. Frozen in place. Across the room, Dick and Barbara were laughing, enjoying themselves together. **No Leila. Focus. It doesn't mean anything. You knew Dick's been friends with Barbara for a while. Focus. Vlad's only toying with you** Leila shook her head, trying to clear her head and turned to glare at Vlad, swatting his hands off her shoulders. Cameras continued to flash and Leila quickly remember where she was, instantly producing a fake smile. Although, venom could be felt as the words splatter through her lips in fake sweetness towards Vlad.
"And what about them Mr. Masters?"
"Testy aren't we now. Tsk. Tsk. But really, Danielle. What would they think once they learn you're not who- or rather what- you said you are? Do you honestly believe they'll trust you? After all you've done? After all this time? I heard one is already suspicious. And nearly failing three times with your missions. Not to mention, my gifts I have for your little friends now."
Leila battered her hair behind her shoulders, laughing as if Vlad told a joke; dread filled her icy core though.
"Oh Mr. Masters. You're kidding."
Vlad's smile widen into a grin,
"Oh Danielle, we both know I don't joke. Your little friends already received one warning last week. Be interesting how fishboy will handle it. No matter..." Vlad glanced behind Leila and she swiftly turn her head to see Dick rushing back towards her, pushing his way through the crowd. Vlad gave a smirk towards Dick before glancing back down at Leila, "Keep in mind little girl, you give away my secret, I'll give away yours. I'll always be watching." Vlad's eyes flashed red, brief seconds of a glimmer that only Leila could notice, before he bowed again. Taking her hand, Vlad gave a mocking, gentleman's kiss before promptly turning on his heel to leave. Leila was frozen again; her insides crawling to either strangle Vlad or wanting to rush to puke and relief herself of the creeping jitters. She knew she couldn't do either. Instead, she forced herself to smile as if she enjoyed seeing an old friend and turned to face Dick. Leila raised her eyebrows at the murderous glare Dick was giving to Vlad's back; the look she wanted to murder Vlad with herself.
Dick swiftly shed off his suit jacket, wrapping it around Leila's shoulders as he noticed her shuddering. Leila didn't even realize she was shivering until Dick was leading her away towards the center of the room. Escaping the bombardment of cameras that were pulled on them like magnets since the start of the event, the two birds slip away to talk in private outside one of the many hallways. Dick held his arm around her shoulders protectively before spinning Leila around and looking over her with concern.
"Leila. What was Vlad doing here? Were you hurt?"
Leila stared blankly back at Dick, the flashes of what happened and the whispers of taunting couldn't be relieved from her mind. She still could see Dick laughing happily with Barbara, leaving her behind with the puppet strings of Vlad.
**Do you really think he'll like a little ghost like you? Freeak. **
Leila was snapped out of her thoughts as Dick shook her gently,
"Leila? What's wrong?"
Leila blinked several times. She had to focus; she couldn't let Vlad win. Leila tried to give a reassuring smile but Dick pursued his lips in frustration, cutting her off.
"No. Don't think you can hide it from me. What was Vlad doing here?"
Leila let herself frown for once tonight; hoping she could at least convince Dick that now was not the time.
"Then I won't. But you know now is not the time. I'll explain later but we have to keep our image."
Dick muttered under his breath before giving a quick nod,
"Bruce will notice our absence, it's going to be a long night."
"As if it wasn't already." Muttered Leila under her breath as Dick quickly lead the way back to the party. Leila kept a fake smile the rest of the night, but she was only there physically.
**Would they really trust you? After all you've done? A little ghost like you. **
Cameras continued to flash and Leila answered the questions perfunctory. Leila tried to look cheery as Bruce continued to introduce her to old family friends and numerous business partners. Each time her mind was reeling with Vlad's threat of warning, which would falter the fake sparkle in Leila's eyes.
**I've already sent one warning to your little friends...one is already suspicious...I'll be watching**
Hours dwindle by, Leila felt like she was being suffocated as the party slowly passed. Leila finally could escape as Bruce said goodbye to the last few guests. Dick was saying goodbye to Barbara and again Leila felt alone. Covering her bare arms, Leila crept away to the silence of the hallway. Vlad had finally shown his face. Vlad knows about the Team. Leila mulled over this new intel. If Vlad knew about the Team, then who told him? **Nearly failing three times...**
It wasn't just Vlad's connections with the Shadows. It wasn't just Cheshire who could've told him. Vlad knew about her and the Team's other encounters. The one with Cheshire, with Clayface and with that telepath Psimon. Bruce will be livid.
Striding out from one of the doorways, Bruce turned to give a stern look before leading the way to the Batcave. Dick quietly appeared next to her but Leila kept to herself, Vlad's taunting echoing through her head as she followed behind Bruce.
**Be interesting how fishboy will handle it...**
What did Vlad give Aqualad? How did he even give it to Aqualad? Was it at the same time as Skulker attacking her? Maybe Skulker had double motives- retrieve whatever it was Leila had and distract her from Vlad's meddling with the Team. Batman would know though, Aqualad would have told Batman…wouldn't he? Unless what Vlad gave was just for manipulation and Aqualad decided to act on his own- Vlad attaching strings to her teammates individually to make Leila bend to his will.
Seconds pass before Leila realized that Bruce, Dick and herself had stopped walking, standing beside the large computer in the center of the bleak, damped cave. Bruce went straight to business.
"What happened Leila?"
Leila snapped her focus back on Bruce, her face emotionless now. She made up her mind.
"Vlad came to 'congratulate' me. Sending his regards to you and basically being the crazy fruit-loop his is."
"Leila."
"Sorry- but he knows. I'm sure Cheshire was the one who told the Shadows, who in turn told Vlad, about my whereabouts and the Team."
"And that was all Leila? The way he was touching you-" Dick muttered angrily but cut off at Bruce's glare.
"I saw. I was actually going to intervene but then Vlad saw Dick and began to leave. Rest assure, I had Alfred check everything to make sure he left." Bruce confirmed as he glanced up and down at Leila, questioning concern hinted behind his eyes.
Leila continued to frown as she thought. Not answering Dick's question of if that was all. Of course it wasn't, but she couldn't say her real feelings for Dick. She shouldn't have let her guard down. Vlad knew perfectly were to strike.
Leila thought back on the last week, remembering that while she and Dick went missing, M'gann and Superboy went undercover in Belle Reve. Upon which, discovered and apprehended a prison breakout ops. Even with that success, it seems that their enemies are still a step ahead.
"Vlad and Ra's Al Ghul are still wanting me- or least not wanting you or the Justice League to have the powers I have." Leila mutters, glancing at her reflection in the computer's black screen. She barely looked up as she asked,
"Are you sure you even still want me here?"
"We're already made that decision Leila-"
"No way are you leaving now. Don't give into Vlad. How can you say that? We're heroes, it's what we do. We can handle it." Dick instantly cut in; Bruce only grimacing at the fact Dick interrupted him. Leila felt a hand on her shoulder and turned to see Bruce looking stern but with a small trace of compassion,
"You may have been announced under a different name, however, you are still apart of us Leila."
Leila nodded, her doubts unnecessary. She'll investigate these threats though, and make sure the Team won't be in danger by her. Leila's place was with Batman. Vlad won't get to her; she won't allow it.
Madison, Wisconsin
September 20 22:34 EDT
Vlad grinned as he stood in front of his large computer screen, gaining the audience of seven silhouettes of light. Holding a vial of a green and crimson red color liquid in his hand, Vlad chuckles as he turns to address the ghost beside him,
"Skulker. An adequate performance but it'll do for now. I expect better next time, not to mention your belated timing, or your hunts will cease. Do I make myself clear?"
The laboratory turned chilling cold and Vlad's red eyes glowed with a glimmer of menace. Although growling quietly, Skulker bowed himself in respect for the more powerful ghost. Skulker's lack of response gave satisfactory for Vlad as he dismissed the ghost, turning back to his computer scene as a deep male's voice rasped out,
"Excellent work Plasimus. I would advise beginning the work now and let our associates deal with the young heroes. The process will take several weeks at best butLeila will be yours soon enough and her powers will show people the Light. Until then, we'll let her crumble."
Admiring the vial, Vlad's glee of laughter echoes around the lab as the screen went black. Turning around, Vlad went to work as he announced,
"And then, Leila will be my little girl once again. This time, forever."