A/N: After talking to some of you I realized that this seemed kind of rushed… I think I got carried away and wanted to see how this story ended too… but I didn't really see a real need to actually show how Bruce convinced the gods to make him a Greek Champion in detail. That goes the same with Diana's issues during his death. Also, I personally don't like dragging things out for too long. That's my mistake. Great stories always have great details. I may do several "deleted scenes" type of thing later on to fill in storylines here and there. I'll leave that up to you guys.
Her World
They all stood by the right side of her bed as a bright flash of light soared throughout the room. The light was blinding, causing everyone to close and cover their eyes. As soon as Diana closed her eyes, she felt something. That feeling triggered a sense of awareness in her mind… an awareness that she hadn't felt in a while. That presence… there was only one man that could spark her senses like this… could it really be him? As she tried to see with her vision still blurred from the light, a voice called out to her. "Princess…" That unmistakable voice, she'd recognize it anywhere. Her heart began to beat rapidly as excitement and pure happiness surged through her body. Diana's vision finally restored as she saw him… her Bruce. He was standing at the foot of the bed in the same torn and battered suit without his cowl.
Diana instantly jumped up off the bed and flew straight at him, tackling him to the ground as she hugged him tightly while smashing her lips into his. She didn't care how he got there. All that mattered was that he was there. With her. In her arms as she was in his. "Bruce!… I… love you!… never… never leave me again!" Diana managed to say between kisses.
Everyone else in the room stood in total shock as they stared at Bruce. They didn't know what just happened or how it happened, but he was back from what they could tell. They all hoped that he was back for good, seeing Diana happy again was a relief to say the least.
"I'll… never… leave… you…" Bruce said quickly between Diana's kisses. He then pulled himself and Diana up off of the floor. Diana refused to let go as she hugged him tightly while resting her head on his shoulder and against his neck. She was where she belonged, where she knew, that familiar place… her place in his arms… against his Kevlar armored chest… the smell of his neck… all concealed within his cape. She was home.
Nightwing rubbed his eyes in amazement. "Bruce! How? Is that really you?" He could barely believe what he was seeing.
"Yes Dick… it's me." Bruce said with a smirk on his face.
"How?" Robin blurted out as his white screened eyes widened.
"It's me remember… I always find a way." Bruce scanned the room to see that everyone wasn't going to let him not talk about how he managed to escape death and return, so he continued. "It only took me a few hours to find several loopholes within the Trial's rules. But there was only one with a high enough probability of working. If I were to come back, I needed to convince the Gods into making me a Greek Champion. In doing so, I would be given gifts from the Gods… and the one particular gift that all Greek Champions possess is immortality… with that, I would automatically be brought back to life. They wouldn't directly bring me back to life, so it wasn't against the rules."
Zatanna shook her head as a huge grin appeared on her face. "Why am I not surprised… you always think of everything."
"But how did you convince the Gods to make you immortal?" Superman scratched his head as he thought about what Batman could possibly say to persuade the Gods into doing so.
Bruce shifted Diana to his side as she still wouldn't let go of him. "That's what took me so long to come back… luckily Diana is Hera's favorite. She helped me convince each God and Goddess that I was worthy of being a Greek Champion. Passing the Trials only helped my cause… along with being a 'hero' of the Earth."
Nightwing chuckled as he crossed his arms over his chest. "Well… you finally managed to beat time huh old man… can't say that I'm surprised."
"Yea… And here I thought you hated magic." Robin said grinning from ear to ear.
"Don't ever scare me like that again!" Batgirl screamed as she punched Batman on the arm as tears of joy trickled down her face.
"Aww man… I got something in my eye…" Flash turned away wiping tears from his eyes.
Green Lantern laughed before turning towards Bruce. "Bruce and Diana as husband and wife… now this is how it's supposed to be."
"Well I'm just glad you're alive… saves us from attempting to find another strategist on the battlefield." Shayera smiled as she placed her hands on her hips.
"Yes Batman… I am indeed glad to see you as well. You are an irreplaceable friend and a leader of this team. You were deeply missed by everyone." J'onn smiled knowing that not only did they get Batman back, but Diana as well.
Superman could only grin knowing that one of his best friends had finally found a way to live a happy life. It wasn't often that he got to see Batman's fortunes finally turn for the better. Now they both can continue to fight side by side against the forces of evil as they have done ever since they joined forces so many years ago. "I knew you were too stubborn to die. I'm assuming you're going to reinstate yourself back into the league?"
Bruce smirked. "Wouldn't have it any other way Kent."
Diana listened to Bruce's story about convincing the Gods, but she didn't care. All that mattered was that he was back. That he did what he always does – he saved her. Bruce brought her world back, brought everything back. She was happier than ever before. Not only did he save her and bring her world back, but he made it so that he would never leave her… never. He was immortal just like her. Before, she made it a priority to spend and cherish every moment with him for the rest of his life. But now she could do the same for the rest of HER life.
Another bright white flash filled the room as Hermes appeared. "Ah Diana! It's good to see you in a brighter mood. I must admit we were beginning to worry… Batman… it's time to complete your transformation." Hermes snapped his fingers as all the heroes in the room disappeared with him.
Diana opened her eyes to see that she was back in the throne room in front of the Gods with the rest of her friends standing behind her. Still holding Bruce in her arms, she was confused as to what was going on. Diana looked at Bruce only to see him unemotionally look at Zeus who sat before them.
Hera smiled as she saw the confusing look in Diana's eyes. "Now that you have regained Diana by your side, we can continue with the ceremony at hand."
Zeus sat up as he nodded to Hera. "Yes where were we… ah yes… Batman… you have proved yourself to be worthy of becoming a Greek Champion. Your determination and will is unmatched by any other. The challenges we placed before you proved that and so much more. You are truly a great warrior of the Earth and we're fully impressed with what you have done without the aid of any extraordinary powers. However, you now represent the Gods, and in doing so, we will not allow you to leave without a few… particular… gifts that a champion must possess."
Hera stood up as she looked down at the both of them. "Now that you have the gift of immortality and the love of my favorite Diana, I see no greater gift for the both of you than the gift of eternal love. This special bond between the both of you shall never be broken, not anything or anyone will be able to damage or interfere with the sanctity of the love you both have for each other. You are hers as she is yours for all eternity." Diana instinctively grabbed Bruce's hand and interlocking their fingers while holding him close with a smile on her face.
"I have a gift for the both of you as well." Aphrodite said after Hera placed her gift on the two heroes. "I have never seen Diana go through such emotional pain and suffering like I have during these past few Earth days… the bond between the both of you is indeed strong, and now I shall make the bond between the two of you unbreakable. The connection the both of you now share will run deeper than pits of Tartarus. The Princess of the Amazons and The Dark Knight will now forever be as one." Understanding what was being done, Diana couldn't help but to have a giant grin cemented on her face as she continued to hold onto Bruce. She couldn't be happier if she tried… talk about a roller coaster ride of emotions… She already had everything she ever wanted. But now she had him, his love, and this new connection for eternity. Bruce, for the most part, was happy as well… sappy love and romance was never his thing. It made him feel uncomfortable, but all this meant that he would be with Diana… and in the end, that's all that really matters. Besides… he knew it made her happy, and he was happy because she was happy.
With a smile, Aphrodite enchanted the two lovers as a golden glow surrounded them. After the magical glow dimmed, Apollo stood up from his throne. "You definitely have greater agility than a common mortal Batman. Since you are now to become a Greek Champion, I shall grant you the privilege of possessing superior agility attributes that surpasses even the greatest of Greek heroes."
"Like my brother, I am too impressed with your abilities. I will give you the gift of superior senses. With the increase in sight, hearing, and awareness… your already superior hunting and stealth abilities will increase by a hundred fold." With the waves of both Artemis and Apollo, Batman could feel a new flow of power seething through his body. It felt as if he were being electrocuted for a few seconds as it rippled through his veins. After the tense tingly feeling subsided, Batman could hear and feel Diana breathing, and from it, he could tell she was surprised and excited with what was happening to him. Batman didn't believe these powers the Gods were blessing him with were necessary, but he knew better than to decline their offer. Batman wasn't stupid, he knew being given powers was definitely better than the alternative… spending an eternity in the pits of Tartarus for insulting the Gods by rejecting their gifts.
"Yes… you have earned my respect as well Batman… Diana, you sure picked a great man to give your heart and soul to. I shouldn't have doubted you… But seriously Batman… how can a man name himself after such a creature when he himself cannot fly? That shall not do." With a grin appearing on his face, Hermes snapped his fingers as Batman suddenly felt lighter. Surprise and panic quickly ran through his mind as he started floating higher with his knees now passing Diana's head. She grabbed his foot and pulled him back down giggling at his inability to control his new power. Batman glared at her for an instant, he hated being embarrassed. He could sense that the rest of the heroes were shocked and envious by the gifts given to him, but they felt that if anyone deserved to have extraordinary powers to help continue the fight for justice, it definitely was Batman.
Holding his hand, Diana wasn't sure whether to let go or not. Part of her wanted to let go and see him float helplessly in the air again, but she knew better. There would be plenty of time to tease him about this later. Diana couldn't help but keep that giant grin anchored on her face as they both looked at each other until Athena rose and began to speak to Batman. "You truly are a great warrior Batman. I have seen you spar against Diana, training her to become a superior fighter. I believe it is in both of your best interests for you to continue to push her to greatness, as well as yourself. I shall give you the strength of a thousand men… your strength will be superior to that of the legendary Heracles. With this strength, Diana will not have to hold back hers anymore and can continue to train with you as she reaches her full potential."
Suddenly Batman felt his muscles twitching as they became slightly bigger and harder than before. He could feel them throbbing with a new sense of energy he never felt before. His youth started to resurface as his body aged back into its prime. Bruce glanced at Diana and saw her lick her lips as she looked up and down his body. She never wanted him more. Her man, now as strong as her… probably stronger… could take anything she dished out. Diana couldn't wait to find out how much fun she's going to have with him now.
Before Diana could think of any ideas, Hades spoke to The Dark Knight. "You have indeed proved that you are a worthy champion, as well as having my daughter's hand. Live a great life with her. Honor her or I'll..."
Persephone smacked Hades on the shoulder. "Come now my husband, this is a joyous occasion. For a great warrior and champion has taken your daughter's hand. Surely we can offer him a gift worthy of such an occasion?"
"My gift is my daughter. What's better than that?" Hades gestured towards Diana.
Persephone rolled her eyes and turned back to Batman. "I know what created you Batman… how it fuels you to continue to fight for justice and the honor of your family. However, no one should suffer the pains you have felt for so long. I know it's that pain and darkness within you that makes you Batman, but even the greatest of warriors need a relief of such sorrows." Persephone gave Hades a look. Sighing, Hades agreed and snapped his fingers.
"Mother! Father!" Bruce dropped his jaw in disbelief as both Thomas and Martha Wayne's spirits stood before him.
"Yes Bruce it's so good to see you!" Martha said as she wiped the tears from her eyes.
"Son… we are so very proud of you. For everything you have done. For the woman you love." Thomas spoke with great pride that only a father would have for his son. "But please don't let our deaths be the reason for your unhappiness. The darkness within you is a strong force son. We understand that it's what allows Batman to exist but don't let it consume you. You are more than just Batman. You are Bruce, a friend, a loved one, you are our son, and we will always be with you."
Martha, crying happily "Yes Bruce… please don't torture your heart like you have all these years. Please… we want you to live a happy life. We know Batman is now a part of you and we don't want you to stop being Batman. But we also want you to live a great life. Don't shutout the ones that love and care for you, cherish every moment you spend with them. We know Diana is a great woman who will love you with all her heart. We love you Bruce, and we are so very proud of you."
Bruce nodded as he engraved this special moment with his parents into his brain. "Yes mother… I'll do everything in my power to live my life to your wishes. I'll do anything and everything to make you both proud to call me your son. I love you both so very much. I miss you so much. I will never allow your deaths to go in vain. My mission will not stop until the streets of Gotham are at peace and free from the cancer that continues to destroy it."
Thomas could only smile "We are the proudest parents in Elysium. There isn't a day in your life that doesn't go by without us bragging about your accomplishments. Goodbye my son."
"We love you Bruce… we always will." Martha said as she held Thomas.
"I love you too mother… father, I'll make you proud, I swear it." Bruce said as both Thomas and Martha Wayne faded away.
"Batman… as a gift from me, I shall see to it that both Thomas and Martha Wayne have a special place to reside in the underworld. They'll now be my guests within the fortress of Hades to live comfortably. After all, it's always nice to have others to talk to while I stay there." Persephone said kindly with a smile on her face… much to the irritation of Hades. He didn't like having mortals in his fortress but he wouldn't deny his wife's wishes since she was usually bored during her stay.
Diana hugged Bruce and placed the cowl that she never let go of back over his face as he regained his composure. She knew that Batman obviously didn't want the others to see him being emotional.
Zeus stood up to present his words to the new Greek Champion. "Batman… you have proved your greatness, worth, and power to all of us. You are now a Greek Champion, and as we see it, one of the best. Honor it, as there will be times in which we shall call upon you to serve us just like Diana does in times of battle. Serve us well Champion."
Zeus smiled as he clapped his hands. "I believe a celebration is in order!" Instantly a large table of food and music appeared as the rest of the Gods began talking among themselves, finally leaving the heroes a chance to talk to Batman.
"You with powers… great… knowing you… you're going to take brooding to a whole new level." Zatanna smirked as she shook her head.
Robin clenched both of his fists as a giant grin appeared on his face. "Wicked! Dude! I can't wait to see the look on Bane's face when you pummel him into the ground!"
"This probably means less work for us." Batgirl smiled as she grabbed on to Nightwing's arm.
"Yea… which means we can actually have a real night life." Nightwing winked back.
"You get all the luck Bats… first with the ladies and now this! Man…" Flash said while continuously stuffing food into his mouth.
Green Lantern brushed off the bits of food that landed on his arm as he watched Flash continue to make a mess. "Well if you really want it too, you can always ask the Gods to put you in one of these trials." Flash was too excited to listen when he realized that the amount of food was limitless as the table continued to magically replenish itself. Green Lantern shook his head at Flash before turning back to Batman. "Well it's good to have you back stronger than before."
"Yea but now I wonder… Athena brought up a good point… who would win… I still got my money on Diana." Shayera gave Batman a mischievous look while motioning towards Diana.
"I'm not sure of that… Batman now possesses powers that even Diana doesn't have… not to mention his fighting technique is still superior to hers." J'onn said admittedly as Batman did everything he could to hold back a smile. Diana wasn't about to let Bruce's ego inflate anymore. She believed she could still beat him, but Queen Hippolyta and Donna quickly pulled her away and bombarded her with wedding questions and ideas.
Superman could only grin as a better idea popped into his head. "Bruce… I admit that I was worried about your ability to get through all of that… I absolutely believed that if it were anyone else taking on those trials, they would've failed miserably. But now with everything that's been given to you. I too wonder… just how powerful you really are…" Superman raised his eyebrow as he cracked his knuckles.
Knowing exactly what Superman had in mind, Batman smirked back at him. "Only one way to find out Kent…" Both Batman and Superman walked off to the center of the throne room, circling each other. There, they gave the Gods and their fellow heroes the fight of the ages as it was a spectacle that they would never forget.
A/N: Thoughts? The sappiness might have been a little bit on the overkill side but I actually already have a really great idea on what's going to happen next now that Batman has some extra abilities… As you know, tragedy and despair always find a way into Batman's life.
Instead of just continuing along with this, I've decided to write it out as a sequel. I'm going to finish this up with an epilogue first, then move on to the next one. The epilogue should be up within a week or so. I'm actually really excited about this next one. It's definitely going to be a darker story than this one… well at least I think so. I think I'll name it "Ties that Bond"
Here's a summary/trailer of it.
Diana finally understands how truly dark Bruce's past is while her own enemies do everything they can to get to her through him.