(AN) Well its getting pretty tough to squeeze in updates with school and the rest of my life, but what the hell? It ain't no thang. I made some really bad mistakes with the last chapter, but I have made the proper adjustments. So things should be moving rather well.
R & R people.
I do not own characters affiliated with DC Comics
Chapter 9 Under a Blood Red Sky
The sun had finally set over El Minya, Egypt, leaving the sky blanketed in a shade of crimson. Nightwing stood next to the water of the Nile River, waiting for a transmission from Slade. He had been training his entire life for unpredicable circumstances and every possible situation. Bruce Wayne had instilled many disciplines in his life-long quest. He even managed to teach them, along with some new ones, to Richard Grayson.
Now, Nightwing finds himself in an unpredictable circumstance that could have a longstanding affect on the world. Slade wanted those young metas for a reason. They were the few successes that were bred from his metacamps and no doubt had plans for them. What was now finding its way back into Nightwing's mind was not the three young metas or the impending crisis.
It was what happened to Batman when he was captured.
Nightwing knew that Slade has yet to play his big card. He knew that making the Justice League run in circles and having he and Robin prepare for some sick test, was not what Slade really wanted.
Batman is what Slade wants.
Why Slade wants him, is something thats going to have to wait.
*****
Ten miles south of Nightwing, the Javelin 7 was on the ground. Superman, Green Lantern, and Hawkgirl waited inside, in case Nightwing needed backup. Superman was seated at the copilot chair with GL next to him in the captian's chair and Hawkgirl at the computer console.
"Nothing surrounding Nightwing's position yet", Hawkgirl said, getting Superman's and GL's attention. "I'm reading nothing for a twenty-mile radius."
Superman had been uneasy about this entire situation. Everyone has been for that matter, however, Superman had always been the closest League member to Batman. Diana had been gaining ground on him, but he knew what this whole situation was doing to Batman. Superman knew that Batman was not going to be the easiest person to deal with from now on.
"I think I should sweep the northern part of Egypt and see if.....no.", Superman had been thinking outloud. "Slade would definatley have the region monitored and we don't want to risk any type of backlash."
John Stewert was glad Superman corrected himself before he could say how stupid that was.
"No doubt Slade would have some sort of retaliation lined up for us", GL said.
"Especially how quickly he had taken out those cities", Hawkgirl added.
Superman was trying desparately to find a way to resolve this situation as quickly as possible. Deep down, he needed to. He had been in a similar predicament before. A foe playing a game with him and his allies. He only hoped that Batman would not find his way at Slade's side, but Superman knew that it would take a hell of a lot to make Batman turn on his own cause.
"Hold on, gang", Hawkgirl said. "I'm picking up readings of a Boom Tube, near Nightwings position."
*****
Back on the Watchtower, Batman had allowed the three metahumans, Starfire and Robin to speak privately in the recroom. He was outside the closed door, waiting to find out if anyone of them could recall important information regarding them or any of Slade's other activities. From the bug he left in the room, he knew that they were getting nowhere.
Starfire wanted Robin to be the one to talk with them. She had gained a sense of comfort and trust with him. Batman knew that was hard for anyone to have, especially those who can't remember anything about themselves. Batman also knew that Starfire was not the most emotionally relaxed person. He noticed how easily it was for her to get so engulfed in whatever emotion that she experienced.
How he depsised that.
But he understood.
Another question that plagued him was her alien nature. Batman had continued to ponder why Starfire was in a metacamp. Had Ra's Al Ghoul managed more than even Batman realized? Did he have access to extraterrestrials?
Too many questions required immediate answering.
As Batman was leaning against the closed door, he noticed that he was not alone in the hallway anymore.
"Diana", Batman said without even looking at her.
"Hello", Diana said at his side. "How are they doing in there?"
Batman had shifted his posture to stand up straight. He hated anyone towering over him, and when he slouched, the resident amazon easily stood higher than him.
"They're getting nowhere", Batman said. "For the past hour, Robin has done the most talking by trying to ask good questions and to calm down Starfire."
Diana gave a quiet chuckle when hearing of Starfire's role in the meeting they were having.
"I don't see what's so funny", Batman said, using his business voice.
Diana had stood next to him and leaned on the door the same way he had been for the last hour.
"Don't get so testy", Diana said. "I was merely amused by Starfire. I understand the importance of all of this. What I was wondering is how you were doing."
Batman looked at her with a questioning look.
"What?", Diana asked.
"I was just wondering why when you talk to me, your tone changes from that of a princess, to sound more like Hawkgirl's."
Diana smiled and put her hands behind her head. An obvous view.
"That'st the most I've ever heard you say at once", Diana said. "But I'm glad you noticed.
Batman turned his head away to look foward, not even returning the smile.
"I...I'm doing as good as can be expected", Batman said glancing back at Diana. He saw that her smile had dissappeared and was now replaced with a concerned look. "I'm not good with expressing my feelings. Sorry."
Diana had stood up straight and grabbed his right arm with both of her hands turning him to meet her. Batman could have easliy avoided this, but was overtook with curiosity.
"You know I'm always here for you", Diana said, still holding his arm. "I like to think that with the little I do know of you, I do understand you better than most."
Batman never strayed from his stonefaced look.
"I know", he said.
He looked into her eyes and felt a sense of nostalgia. Batman was reminded of Andrea Beaumont. The only woman who he wanted to spend the rest of his life with. Like so many other important things in his life, she was taken from him.
Diana noticed Batman staring into her eyes, even through the lenses of his mask. She also knew his mind was elsewhere.
"Batman?", Diana asked, but received no response. She was now worried. Diana was about to attempt something that she knew she would try one day, but was scared of his reaction if she ever did.
"B..Bruce?", Diana said as she raised her right hand to hold the left side of Batman's face.
Her hand was suddenly grabbed by Batman's left hand. He could not physically harm her, but she was taken aback by him stopping her advance. Batman's face started to harden as Diana felt that she overstepped a boundry she had no right to cross. Batman's menacing look came within two inches from her face as she coudln't help but feel intimidated, and a little scared.
"Don't", was all he said.
With that, Batman abruptly let go of her arm and swiftly walked past her. Diana was left in a state of disbelief. She then turned to hurriedly say something.
Anything.
"I...I'm sorry. I shouldn't have..."
"What is it Flash?", Batman said into his earpiece as he rounded the corner of the hallway and disappeared from Diana's sight.
Diana stood silent to herself for a moment, hiding her face in her hands.
"Stupid", is all that she could say to herself. Diana repeated it to herself several times silently as she began to walk away.
*****
Nightwing's communicator had finally received a signal.
"Richard, how kind of you to make it."
Nightwing had his game face on now. He picked up a flat stone from the ground and skipped it across the surface of the Nile.
"No problem, Slade", Nightwing said.
Within seconds, a Boom Tube appeared behind Nightwing and the Nile River. He spun around to see the bright wormhole illuminate the surrounding trees bordering the Nile. Nightwing had to switch to a tinted lense in his mask to block out the blinding glare. Nightwing had readied himself for an immediate battle.
The Boom Tube had dissipated, and three figures were left. One was a massive figure, one was an average size individual, and one appeared to be on its knees and slumped to it's side. Nightwing had to switch back to his normal lenses for regular vision. He now recognized the individuals.
The large individual was Clayface.
The figure on its knees was Batgirl.
The other was Slade.
Nightwing noticed right away that Batgirl was missing her mask and unconscious. She was wrapped in shards of Clayface's body, but she was breathing. Another thing Nightwing noticed was that J'onn was not with them.
"Hello, Nightwing", Slade said, walking toward him.
"Stay where you are", Nightwing spat. "What did you do to her? Where's J'onn?"
Slade had stopped and glanced back at Clayface who recoiled his tendrils from Batgirl's body, allowing her to fall to the ground. Clayface then started to tear down the neighboring trees to make room for the upcoming festivities. After he finished, he began to walk toward Slade's side when the loud engine's of the Javelin 7 could be heard coming from a short distance. Slade turned his attention back to Nightwing, waving his right index finger at him.
"I recall mentioning that you we're to come alone."
Nightwing looked up at the Javelin that was now hovering over their position.
"Javelin, come in", Nightwing said into his earpiece.
*****
Green Lantern had flown the Javelin 7 back to Nightwing's position. Superman and Hawkgirl stood ready to deploy when the Javelin had stopped over the exact location.
"All frequencies in the area are still jammed", GL said. "I'm also getting distortion in the monitors."
Superman had looked through the Javelin's floor with his X-ray vision and saw clearly who was down there.
"It's Slade and Clayface", Superman angrily said. "And they have Batgirl."
"I'm going down there", Hawkgirl said, reaching for her mase at her side.
"No", GL said.
The Javelin's communicator had finally recieved a signal that interrupted John Stewert.
"Javelin 7", Slade's voice said. "I had given specific instructions for Nightwing to come alone. I suggest you begin to take me seriously, or is another deminstration in order?"
"Now hold on a second", GL said. "We detected a Boom Tube in this region. We didn't expect you to have access to that technology."
"Another of your failed assumptions", Slade's voice said. "I originally had demanded for Nightwing to come alone, but now I have decided to allow your presence as another stipulation for Nightwing's test."
Green Lantern turned to Superman and Hawkgirl to get their opinion.
"What do you guy's think?", GL asked.
Hawkgirl had her mase in her right hand, smacking the palm of her left hand with the heavy end.
"I think it's a load of bullsh...."
"..velin 7, come in", Nightwing finally broke through on the frequency.
"Nightwing", GL said, turning back to the controls. "Did you get all of that?"
"Yeah, I got it", Nightwing said.
"Good", Slade's voice came in also. "My terms are this: Not only is the custody of my metachildren at stake, but so is the custody of Batgirl and one of your team members aboard the Javelin. If Nightwing passes, I will release Batgirl back to you."
"What about J'onn?", Superman said
"The martian is not apart of this deal. Seeing that I only have one of your comrades with me, it would be foolish to offer another. I was originally going to have her be a spectator, but I think she could raise the stakes as well"
"Which member do you want as part of the deal?" Green Lantern asked.
Slade had mildly laughed into the radio.
"I was unaware that the choice was mine", Slade said. "But very well. I will require Superman's presence if Nightwing fails."
Hawkgirl walked to Superman's side and put a hand on his shoulder.
"Are you sure about this?", Hawkgirl asked.
"Perfectly", Superman said. He then walked to the unopened hatch of the Javelin. "Lantern, let me out."
Green Lantern looked back at Superman with a worried look and Superman met his look.
"Don't worry, John", Superman said. "I'll be fine. Just let me out."
GL gave Superman a smirk then turned away from him to the controls.
"Hmph, I thought I was in charge", GL said. "Opening hatch. Hawkgirl, Contact the Watchtower, Batman wanted updates"
*****
"Whats the game now Slade?", Nightwing said walking towards him. "What do you want with Superman?"
Slade had met Nightwing's glare with his exposed eye. Clayface had lifted his arm and extended it to form four sharp metal bars. Clayface's extentions had landed in front of Nightwing, stopping him and preventing his advancement.
"Uh uh, Nightwing", Clayface said. "You don't move 'till we say so."
Slade had walked to the opposite side of Nightwing, behind the metal bars.
"My business with Superman is none of your concern for the time being", Slade said. "Focus on your task at hand."
The bottom hatch of the Javelin 7 opened above Nightwing and the others. Superman had appeared out of the opening and flown down to the surface, landing next to Nightwing.
"I don't think these are necessary", Superman said, as he smashed Clayface's extention's to pieces with a single right hook.
Superman then looked at Slade who was mere feet away from him. Before he could make a move, Slade spoke.
"No sudden move's Superman", Slade said as he revealed a remote detonator on his forearm. "Or the Daily Planet in Metropolis suffers the same fate as Wayne Enterprises World Headquarters."
Superman stood, frozen. He had forgotten that Slade had Batman's files on the Justice League. Now, he stood at Slade's mercy for those he cared for.
"Good", Slade said acknowledging Superman's obedience in the matter. "Now Nightwing, your test will involve a simple sparring session with me to get you warmed up. Then you will do battle with Clayface."
Nightwing walked past Superman to meet Slade face to face. Superman stood silently behind him as Clayface backed off as well. When Clayface returned to where he left Batgirl, she began to moan as she was now awake.
"Wh....where...am I?", Batgirl struggled. "Where...J'onn?"
Batgirl started to get up when Clayface picked her up with a massive hand. He then formed a cage around her to hold her temporarily. Batgirl struggled against her binds, but she could not break her way through.
"Easy, girlie", Clayface said. "Enjoy the show for now."
Batgirl looked out of her cage at Nightwing. She tried to shout to him, to let him know she was fine. Nightwing looked back at her and noticed her alertness. He couldn't hear her, but he knew that she was ok for now.
Nightwing and Slade were in invisable ring between Clayface and Superman. Slade had taken a few steps back from Nightwing and had begun stretching, clearly mocking Nightwing to get under his skin. Nightwing had ignored this because he knew he was being baited to do something rash. Nightwing countered the obvious taunt with a few stretches of his own.
"Do we get a rub down to?", Nightwing asked.
Slade finished his stretching and went into a Ju Jitsu stance.
"Perhaps afterward", Slade said, then motioned with his right hand. "Come."
With that, Nightwing lept at him, landing two feet in front of him in a handstand and threw a kick at Slade. Slade was thrown of guard by Nightwing's attack and dodged enough to take the kick at a fraction of the force on his shoulder. Slade countered with a low kick that was level with Nightwing's upside down head. Nighwing blocked the kick with his left hand and sprung to his feet with his right hand. As he landed, Slade connected with a straight punch to the chest that came out of nowhere. Nightwing's kevelar-lined suit absorbed some of the impact, but he was forced into a back flip to dodge any follow up blow. As he landed, Nightwing looked at Slade with a grin.
"Nice moves", Nightwing said. "I see that your not just a big mouth with big help."
Slade had returned to his ready stance and looked Nightwing right in his eyes.
"Nightwing, if you only knew."
It was Slade's turn to take the offensive. He rushed Nightwing with his right hand retracted. Nightwing read this, then waited for Slade to commit to his movement. A split second after Slade attempted a palm strike, Nightwing attempted to cartwheel to his right, only to be met by Slade's left knee. Nightwing was struck in his midsection and doubled for a brief second. Slade came down hard with a forearm smash to the side of Nightwing's head. Nightwing, now bleeding from the side of his head, was on the ground.
Superman was talking with Green Lantern and Hawkgirl during the match.
"It doesn't look good", Superman said.
"Your tellin' me", GL said.
Superman had kept his eye on Clayface as well during the match. Clayface had been flashing that deformed smile to Superman the entire time. Superman wanted nothing more than to rush over there and put that mudpile into orbit, but he had to take into account that Batgirl was, at the moment, at Clayface's mercy.
"If this doesn't get any better, we may have to try something rash", Superman said to his earpiece.
Slade had now broken from his fighting stance and returned to his upright posture. He positioned himself over Nightwings head, watching Nightwing struggle to gather his senses.
"I believe that the first part of this test is over", Slade said as he looked down on Nightwing.
Slade began to walk towards Clayface, his back turned to Nightwing. Slade then felt a hand grab his shoulder and another hand strike his right kidney.
"Like hell", Nightwing growled.
Slade had taken the blow in full. Slade had staggered foward as Nightwing dropped to a foot sweep that took both legs out from underneath Slade. As Slade landed on his back, Nightwing had spun full circle and landed an elbow on Slade's chest. Nightwing then attempted to grab his arm, however when he did, he was met with a sudden electric shock that shot Nightwing back ten feet. Nightwing landed on the sandy ground, smoking from the sudden shock he recieved.
Slade lept up from the ground and looked back at Nightwing, who was struggling to his feet. As Slade was dusting himself off, Superman had flown to Nightwing's side to help him to his feet.
"That was a dirty move, Slade!", Superman shouted in rage.
Slade had finished dusting himself off, he returned to his usual posture with both of his arms rested behind his back. He showed no signs of taking any form of thrashing.
"Superman", Slade began. "Being prepared for anything is apart of this test."
Nightwing had finally gathered himself and brushed Superman's helping hand off of him. He was resembling his mentor more and more.
"We're not done yet", Nightwing spat, his body barely showing signs of coordination.
Slade had motioned for Clayface to return to his side.
"Alas, Nightwing, WE are done for the moment", Slade said. "You, on the other hand, are just now ready to begin."
Clayface had dropped Batgirl to the ground in her makeshift cage and began to make his way to the imaginary ring that Slade and Nightwing created. Slade had walked back to stand by Batgirl, ready to make himself a spectator.
"Whenever your ready, Nightwing", Slade said. "The next phase will begin."
Clayface awaited Nightwing with his two current arms folded in front of him. Nightwing walked gingerly to meet Clayface, man to monster. Nightwing had stood six feet in front of Clayface, feeling the effects of his session with Slade. Yet, he still managed a smile.
"Ok, ugly", Nightwing said. "What do we do? Arm wrestle?"
Clayface had always enjoyed his battles with Batman and his cronies. Always good for a good laugh.
"Sure, why not?", Clayface laughed. "When we're done, I can do some finger paint."
Clayface had taken his right index finger to the ground and had written the phrase 'Your freakin DEAD' in clay.
Nightwing looked up at Clayface and resumed his business face.
"I don't think so", Nightwing said as he swung with his right hand, throwing an object at Clayface. Clayface could not react in time as a batarang had caught him in the chest and gave off an electronic discharge. Clayface had screamed in agony as thousands of volts jolted througout his body, causing him to erratically shift his body from one form to another and another.
Slade stood silently as Batgirl looked on and let out what sounded like a cheer for Nightwing. Slade could not help but find the turn of events to be exciting as well.
"Alright, Nightwing!", Superman could not help but shout.
Nightwing was not done as he reached for another pouch in his utility belt. He pulled out several small spheres and hurled them at the spasming blob. Upon impact, the balls released a substance that quickly reacted by breaking down Clayface's genetic structure. The cage made for Batgirl had dissolved as well. Within seconds, Clayface had been reduced to a pulsating puddle.
Superman's cheerfull expression was replaced by a dumbfounded look. Nighting gave out a huge gasp of relief and Batgirl once again cheered. She had stood up and looked at Slade with a look of doing physical harm, but she was to weakened to start anything. She had walked over the now kneeling Nightwing, who was joined by Superman.
"What did you do to him?", Superman asked.
Nightwing looked up at Superman who was helping him back to his feet.
"It was a stronger mix of a chemical compound that dissolved Clayface in a river once. I think I over did the mixture a little bit."
Batgirl had embraced Nightwing, nearly in tears.
"Hey kiddo, you alright?", Nightwing asked her.
Batgirl looked up at him now in full tears.
"Dey...still have..J'onn."
Superman had left the side of Nightwing and Batgirl as the Javelin 7 landed to pick them up. He walked towards Slade who was now alone.
"Not another step Superman", Slade said. "Don't forget what I am still capable of, even now. I would like to know as to why you and Nightwing believe this test is concluded."
Superman stopped in his tracks, knowing that Slade was capable of anything.
"What now?", Superman said, losing his patience.
Slade had stood silently for a brief moment, staring back at Superman
"I believe being an escape artist is something that Batman has made a name for himself", Slade said. "I don't think an atomic detonation should be difficult for the lad to avoid."
The front of Slade's mask came off, revealing a digital clock with only three seconds on it. Before Superman could register that this was an elaborate android and not Slade, the clock was down to two seconds.
"Hey Superman?", GL said in Superman's earpiece. "What..."
...1
"....is it?'
...0
Then the people on the ground and in the Javelin saw only darkness.
R & R people.
I do not own characters affiliated with DC Comics
Chapter 9 Under a Blood Red Sky
The sun had finally set over El Minya, Egypt, leaving the sky blanketed in a shade of crimson. Nightwing stood next to the water of the Nile River, waiting for a transmission from Slade. He had been training his entire life for unpredicable circumstances and every possible situation. Bruce Wayne had instilled many disciplines in his life-long quest. He even managed to teach them, along with some new ones, to Richard Grayson.
Now, Nightwing finds himself in an unpredictable circumstance that could have a longstanding affect on the world. Slade wanted those young metas for a reason. They were the few successes that were bred from his metacamps and no doubt had plans for them. What was now finding its way back into Nightwing's mind was not the three young metas or the impending crisis.
It was what happened to Batman when he was captured.
Nightwing knew that Slade has yet to play his big card. He knew that making the Justice League run in circles and having he and Robin prepare for some sick test, was not what Slade really wanted.
Batman is what Slade wants.
Why Slade wants him, is something thats going to have to wait.
*****
Ten miles south of Nightwing, the Javelin 7 was on the ground. Superman, Green Lantern, and Hawkgirl waited inside, in case Nightwing needed backup. Superman was seated at the copilot chair with GL next to him in the captian's chair and Hawkgirl at the computer console.
"Nothing surrounding Nightwing's position yet", Hawkgirl said, getting Superman's and GL's attention. "I'm reading nothing for a twenty-mile radius."
Superman had been uneasy about this entire situation. Everyone has been for that matter, however, Superman had always been the closest League member to Batman. Diana had been gaining ground on him, but he knew what this whole situation was doing to Batman. Superman knew that Batman was not going to be the easiest person to deal with from now on.
"I think I should sweep the northern part of Egypt and see if.....no.", Superman had been thinking outloud. "Slade would definatley have the region monitored and we don't want to risk any type of backlash."
John Stewert was glad Superman corrected himself before he could say how stupid that was.
"No doubt Slade would have some sort of retaliation lined up for us", GL said.
"Especially how quickly he had taken out those cities", Hawkgirl added.
Superman was trying desparately to find a way to resolve this situation as quickly as possible. Deep down, he needed to. He had been in a similar predicament before. A foe playing a game with him and his allies. He only hoped that Batman would not find his way at Slade's side, but Superman knew that it would take a hell of a lot to make Batman turn on his own cause.
"Hold on, gang", Hawkgirl said. "I'm picking up readings of a Boom Tube, near Nightwings position."
*****
Back on the Watchtower, Batman had allowed the three metahumans, Starfire and Robin to speak privately in the recroom. He was outside the closed door, waiting to find out if anyone of them could recall important information regarding them or any of Slade's other activities. From the bug he left in the room, he knew that they were getting nowhere.
Starfire wanted Robin to be the one to talk with them. She had gained a sense of comfort and trust with him. Batman knew that was hard for anyone to have, especially those who can't remember anything about themselves. Batman also knew that Starfire was not the most emotionally relaxed person. He noticed how easily it was for her to get so engulfed in whatever emotion that she experienced.
How he depsised that.
But he understood.
Another question that plagued him was her alien nature. Batman had continued to ponder why Starfire was in a metacamp. Had Ra's Al Ghoul managed more than even Batman realized? Did he have access to extraterrestrials?
Too many questions required immediate answering.
As Batman was leaning against the closed door, he noticed that he was not alone in the hallway anymore.
"Diana", Batman said without even looking at her.
"Hello", Diana said at his side. "How are they doing in there?"
Batman had shifted his posture to stand up straight. He hated anyone towering over him, and when he slouched, the resident amazon easily stood higher than him.
"They're getting nowhere", Batman said. "For the past hour, Robin has done the most talking by trying to ask good questions and to calm down Starfire."
Diana gave a quiet chuckle when hearing of Starfire's role in the meeting they were having.
"I don't see what's so funny", Batman said, using his business voice.
Diana had stood next to him and leaned on the door the same way he had been for the last hour.
"Don't get so testy", Diana said. "I was merely amused by Starfire. I understand the importance of all of this. What I was wondering is how you were doing."
Batman looked at her with a questioning look.
"What?", Diana asked.
"I was just wondering why when you talk to me, your tone changes from that of a princess, to sound more like Hawkgirl's."
Diana smiled and put her hands behind her head. An obvous view.
"That'st the most I've ever heard you say at once", Diana said. "But I'm glad you noticed.
Batman turned his head away to look foward, not even returning the smile.
"I...I'm doing as good as can be expected", Batman said glancing back at Diana. He saw that her smile had dissappeared and was now replaced with a concerned look. "I'm not good with expressing my feelings. Sorry."
Diana had stood up straight and grabbed his right arm with both of her hands turning him to meet her. Batman could have easliy avoided this, but was overtook with curiosity.
"You know I'm always here for you", Diana said, still holding his arm. "I like to think that with the little I do know of you, I do understand you better than most."
Batman never strayed from his stonefaced look.
"I know", he said.
He looked into her eyes and felt a sense of nostalgia. Batman was reminded of Andrea Beaumont. The only woman who he wanted to spend the rest of his life with. Like so many other important things in his life, she was taken from him.
Diana noticed Batman staring into her eyes, even through the lenses of his mask. She also knew his mind was elsewhere.
"Batman?", Diana asked, but received no response. She was now worried. Diana was about to attempt something that she knew she would try one day, but was scared of his reaction if she ever did.
"B..Bruce?", Diana said as she raised her right hand to hold the left side of Batman's face.
Her hand was suddenly grabbed by Batman's left hand. He could not physically harm her, but she was taken aback by him stopping her advance. Batman's face started to harden as Diana felt that she overstepped a boundry she had no right to cross. Batman's menacing look came within two inches from her face as she coudln't help but feel intimidated, and a little scared.
"Don't", was all he said.
With that, Batman abruptly let go of her arm and swiftly walked past her. Diana was left in a state of disbelief. She then turned to hurriedly say something.
Anything.
"I...I'm sorry. I shouldn't have..."
"What is it Flash?", Batman said into his earpiece as he rounded the corner of the hallway and disappeared from Diana's sight.
Diana stood silent to herself for a moment, hiding her face in her hands.
"Stupid", is all that she could say to herself. Diana repeated it to herself several times silently as she began to walk away.
*****
Nightwing's communicator had finally received a signal.
"Richard, how kind of you to make it."
Nightwing had his game face on now. He picked up a flat stone from the ground and skipped it across the surface of the Nile.
"No problem, Slade", Nightwing said.
Within seconds, a Boom Tube appeared behind Nightwing and the Nile River. He spun around to see the bright wormhole illuminate the surrounding trees bordering the Nile. Nightwing had to switch to a tinted lense in his mask to block out the blinding glare. Nightwing had readied himself for an immediate battle.
The Boom Tube had dissipated, and three figures were left. One was a massive figure, one was an average size individual, and one appeared to be on its knees and slumped to it's side. Nightwing had to switch back to his normal lenses for regular vision. He now recognized the individuals.
The large individual was Clayface.
The figure on its knees was Batgirl.
The other was Slade.
Nightwing noticed right away that Batgirl was missing her mask and unconscious. She was wrapped in shards of Clayface's body, but she was breathing. Another thing Nightwing noticed was that J'onn was not with them.
"Hello, Nightwing", Slade said, walking toward him.
"Stay where you are", Nightwing spat. "What did you do to her? Where's J'onn?"
Slade had stopped and glanced back at Clayface who recoiled his tendrils from Batgirl's body, allowing her to fall to the ground. Clayface then started to tear down the neighboring trees to make room for the upcoming festivities. After he finished, he began to walk toward Slade's side when the loud engine's of the Javelin 7 could be heard coming from a short distance. Slade turned his attention back to Nightwing, waving his right index finger at him.
"I recall mentioning that you we're to come alone."
Nightwing looked up at the Javelin that was now hovering over their position.
"Javelin, come in", Nightwing said into his earpiece.
*****
Green Lantern had flown the Javelin 7 back to Nightwing's position. Superman and Hawkgirl stood ready to deploy when the Javelin had stopped over the exact location.
"All frequencies in the area are still jammed", GL said. "I'm also getting distortion in the monitors."
Superman had looked through the Javelin's floor with his X-ray vision and saw clearly who was down there.
"It's Slade and Clayface", Superman angrily said. "And they have Batgirl."
"I'm going down there", Hawkgirl said, reaching for her mase at her side.
"No", GL said.
The Javelin's communicator had finally recieved a signal that interrupted John Stewert.
"Javelin 7", Slade's voice said. "I had given specific instructions for Nightwing to come alone. I suggest you begin to take me seriously, or is another deminstration in order?"
"Now hold on a second", GL said. "We detected a Boom Tube in this region. We didn't expect you to have access to that technology."
"Another of your failed assumptions", Slade's voice said. "I originally had demanded for Nightwing to come alone, but now I have decided to allow your presence as another stipulation for Nightwing's test."
Green Lantern turned to Superman and Hawkgirl to get their opinion.
"What do you guy's think?", GL asked.
Hawkgirl had her mase in her right hand, smacking the palm of her left hand with the heavy end.
"I think it's a load of bullsh...."
"..velin 7, come in", Nightwing finally broke through on the frequency.
"Nightwing", GL said, turning back to the controls. "Did you get all of that?"
"Yeah, I got it", Nightwing said.
"Good", Slade's voice came in also. "My terms are this: Not only is the custody of my metachildren at stake, but so is the custody of Batgirl and one of your team members aboard the Javelin. If Nightwing passes, I will release Batgirl back to you."
"What about J'onn?", Superman said
"The martian is not apart of this deal. Seeing that I only have one of your comrades with me, it would be foolish to offer another. I was originally going to have her be a spectator, but I think she could raise the stakes as well"
"Which member do you want as part of the deal?" Green Lantern asked.
Slade had mildly laughed into the radio.
"I was unaware that the choice was mine", Slade said. "But very well. I will require Superman's presence if Nightwing fails."
Hawkgirl walked to Superman's side and put a hand on his shoulder.
"Are you sure about this?", Hawkgirl asked.
"Perfectly", Superman said. He then walked to the unopened hatch of the Javelin. "Lantern, let me out."
Green Lantern looked back at Superman with a worried look and Superman met his look.
"Don't worry, John", Superman said. "I'll be fine. Just let me out."
GL gave Superman a smirk then turned away from him to the controls.
"Hmph, I thought I was in charge", GL said. "Opening hatch. Hawkgirl, Contact the Watchtower, Batman wanted updates"
*****
"Whats the game now Slade?", Nightwing said walking towards him. "What do you want with Superman?"
Slade had met Nightwing's glare with his exposed eye. Clayface had lifted his arm and extended it to form four sharp metal bars. Clayface's extentions had landed in front of Nightwing, stopping him and preventing his advancement.
"Uh uh, Nightwing", Clayface said. "You don't move 'till we say so."
Slade had walked to the opposite side of Nightwing, behind the metal bars.
"My business with Superman is none of your concern for the time being", Slade said. "Focus on your task at hand."
The bottom hatch of the Javelin 7 opened above Nightwing and the others. Superman had appeared out of the opening and flown down to the surface, landing next to Nightwing.
"I don't think these are necessary", Superman said, as he smashed Clayface's extention's to pieces with a single right hook.
Superman then looked at Slade who was mere feet away from him. Before he could make a move, Slade spoke.
"No sudden move's Superman", Slade said as he revealed a remote detonator on his forearm. "Or the Daily Planet in Metropolis suffers the same fate as Wayne Enterprises World Headquarters."
Superman stood, frozen. He had forgotten that Slade had Batman's files on the Justice League. Now, he stood at Slade's mercy for those he cared for.
"Good", Slade said acknowledging Superman's obedience in the matter. "Now Nightwing, your test will involve a simple sparring session with me to get you warmed up. Then you will do battle with Clayface."
Nightwing walked past Superman to meet Slade face to face. Superman stood silently behind him as Clayface backed off as well. When Clayface returned to where he left Batgirl, she began to moan as she was now awake.
"Wh....where...am I?", Batgirl struggled. "Where...J'onn?"
Batgirl started to get up when Clayface picked her up with a massive hand. He then formed a cage around her to hold her temporarily. Batgirl struggled against her binds, but she could not break her way through.
"Easy, girlie", Clayface said. "Enjoy the show for now."
Batgirl looked out of her cage at Nightwing. She tried to shout to him, to let him know she was fine. Nightwing looked back at her and noticed her alertness. He couldn't hear her, but he knew that she was ok for now.
Nightwing and Slade were in invisable ring between Clayface and Superman. Slade had taken a few steps back from Nightwing and had begun stretching, clearly mocking Nightwing to get under his skin. Nightwing had ignored this because he knew he was being baited to do something rash. Nightwing countered the obvious taunt with a few stretches of his own.
"Do we get a rub down to?", Nightwing asked.
Slade finished his stretching and went into a Ju Jitsu stance.
"Perhaps afterward", Slade said, then motioned with his right hand. "Come."
With that, Nightwing lept at him, landing two feet in front of him in a handstand and threw a kick at Slade. Slade was thrown of guard by Nightwing's attack and dodged enough to take the kick at a fraction of the force on his shoulder. Slade countered with a low kick that was level with Nightwing's upside down head. Nighwing blocked the kick with his left hand and sprung to his feet with his right hand. As he landed, Slade connected with a straight punch to the chest that came out of nowhere. Nightwing's kevelar-lined suit absorbed some of the impact, but he was forced into a back flip to dodge any follow up blow. As he landed, Nightwing looked at Slade with a grin.
"Nice moves", Nightwing said. "I see that your not just a big mouth with big help."
Slade had returned to his ready stance and looked Nightwing right in his eyes.
"Nightwing, if you only knew."
It was Slade's turn to take the offensive. He rushed Nightwing with his right hand retracted. Nightwing read this, then waited for Slade to commit to his movement. A split second after Slade attempted a palm strike, Nightwing attempted to cartwheel to his right, only to be met by Slade's left knee. Nightwing was struck in his midsection and doubled for a brief second. Slade came down hard with a forearm smash to the side of Nightwing's head. Nightwing, now bleeding from the side of his head, was on the ground.
Superman was talking with Green Lantern and Hawkgirl during the match.
"It doesn't look good", Superman said.
"Your tellin' me", GL said.
Superman had kept his eye on Clayface as well during the match. Clayface had been flashing that deformed smile to Superman the entire time. Superman wanted nothing more than to rush over there and put that mudpile into orbit, but he had to take into account that Batgirl was, at the moment, at Clayface's mercy.
"If this doesn't get any better, we may have to try something rash", Superman said to his earpiece.
Slade had now broken from his fighting stance and returned to his upright posture. He positioned himself over Nightwings head, watching Nightwing struggle to gather his senses.
"I believe that the first part of this test is over", Slade said as he looked down on Nightwing.
Slade began to walk towards Clayface, his back turned to Nightwing. Slade then felt a hand grab his shoulder and another hand strike his right kidney.
"Like hell", Nightwing growled.
Slade had taken the blow in full. Slade had staggered foward as Nightwing dropped to a foot sweep that took both legs out from underneath Slade. As Slade landed on his back, Nightwing had spun full circle and landed an elbow on Slade's chest. Nightwing then attempted to grab his arm, however when he did, he was met with a sudden electric shock that shot Nightwing back ten feet. Nightwing landed on the sandy ground, smoking from the sudden shock he recieved.
Slade lept up from the ground and looked back at Nightwing, who was struggling to his feet. As Slade was dusting himself off, Superman had flown to Nightwing's side to help him to his feet.
"That was a dirty move, Slade!", Superman shouted in rage.
Slade had finished dusting himself off, he returned to his usual posture with both of his arms rested behind his back. He showed no signs of taking any form of thrashing.
"Superman", Slade began. "Being prepared for anything is apart of this test."
Nightwing had finally gathered himself and brushed Superman's helping hand off of him. He was resembling his mentor more and more.
"We're not done yet", Nightwing spat, his body barely showing signs of coordination.
Slade had motioned for Clayface to return to his side.
"Alas, Nightwing, WE are done for the moment", Slade said. "You, on the other hand, are just now ready to begin."
Clayface had dropped Batgirl to the ground in her makeshift cage and began to make his way to the imaginary ring that Slade and Nightwing created. Slade had walked back to stand by Batgirl, ready to make himself a spectator.
"Whenever your ready, Nightwing", Slade said. "The next phase will begin."
Clayface awaited Nightwing with his two current arms folded in front of him. Nightwing walked gingerly to meet Clayface, man to monster. Nightwing had stood six feet in front of Clayface, feeling the effects of his session with Slade. Yet, he still managed a smile.
"Ok, ugly", Nightwing said. "What do we do? Arm wrestle?"
Clayface had always enjoyed his battles with Batman and his cronies. Always good for a good laugh.
"Sure, why not?", Clayface laughed. "When we're done, I can do some finger paint."
Clayface had taken his right index finger to the ground and had written the phrase 'Your freakin DEAD' in clay.
Nightwing looked up at Clayface and resumed his business face.
"I don't think so", Nightwing said as he swung with his right hand, throwing an object at Clayface. Clayface could not react in time as a batarang had caught him in the chest and gave off an electronic discharge. Clayface had screamed in agony as thousands of volts jolted througout his body, causing him to erratically shift his body from one form to another and another.
Slade stood silently as Batgirl looked on and let out what sounded like a cheer for Nightwing. Slade could not help but find the turn of events to be exciting as well.
"Alright, Nightwing!", Superman could not help but shout.
Nightwing was not done as he reached for another pouch in his utility belt. He pulled out several small spheres and hurled them at the spasming blob. Upon impact, the balls released a substance that quickly reacted by breaking down Clayface's genetic structure. The cage made for Batgirl had dissolved as well. Within seconds, Clayface had been reduced to a pulsating puddle.
Superman's cheerfull expression was replaced by a dumbfounded look. Nighting gave out a huge gasp of relief and Batgirl once again cheered. She had stood up and looked at Slade with a look of doing physical harm, but she was to weakened to start anything. She had walked over the now kneeling Nightwing, who was joined by Superman.
"What did you do to him?", Superman asked.
Nightwing looked up at Superman who was helping him back to his feet.
"It was a stronger mix of a chemical compound that dissolved Clayface in a river once. I think I over did the mixture a little bit."
Batgirl had embraced Nightwing, nearly in tears.
"Hey kiddo, you alright?", Nightwing asked her.
Batgirl looked up at him now in full tears.
"Dey...still have..J'onn."
Superman had left the side of Nightwing and Batgirl as the Javelin 7 landed to pick them up. He walked towards Slade who was now alone.
"Not another step Superman", Slade said. "Don't forget what I am still capable of, even now. I would like to know as to why you and Nightwing believe this test is concluded."
Superman stopped in his tracks, knowing that Slade was capable of anything.
"What now?", Superman said, losing his patience.
Slade had stood silently for a brief moment, staring back at Superman
"I believe being an escape artist is something that Batman has made a name for himself", Slade said. "I don't think an atomic detonation should be difficult for the lad to avoid."
The front of Slade's mask came off, revealing a digital clock with only three seconds on it. Before Superman could register that this was an elaborate android and not Slade, the clock was down to two seconds.
"Hey Superman?", GL said in Superman's earpiece. "What..."
...1
"....is it?'
...0
Then the people on the ground and in the Javelin saw only darkness.