A/N:warning accent ahead and for the record this was written long before Dark Knight
xxxxxx
Narrowed black eyes watched the silver jag dart into traffic. A nondescript blue car slipped in behind the jag and followed. The man behind the wheel kept a few cars behind Lex to avoid being noticed.
He had been watching them for almost a week. He needed to know if the pair had any daily pattern at all. So far, he had found that Luthor had a regular schedule though he had veered off it for the past few days.
The girl however was erratic, even more so now that she was no longer going to the studio every day. Then there were the two days previous, they had never left the warehouse.
He had observed them while they were in the apartment, despite the extensive security. He watched them with malice souring his stomach, watched while they shared what they believed were private exchanges.
With a stoic expression, he watched them as long as they were awake. When they finally fell asleep, he slipped into the building and inspected the loft. Silent as a ghost he stood in the bedroom and watched them while they slept.
In order to achieve his objective, he needed his target to be alone. It would be easier without any interference from the other party. He wanted the whole thing to go smoothly, the less attention he drew the better.
The man's heart cried out for vengeance, he was frenzied from its torment. He would not allow for any complications, therefore if his revenge was to be sated, he needed this first phase to be completed in the next 48 hours.
The jag took a left turn and pulled up outside a posh Italian restaurant. He pulled into the space behind the car and slouched down in his seat. Lex climbed out and stalked up to the door where a smiling girl with long brown hair met him. She handed him a large white paper bag and he gave her a handful of cash. They spoke for a brief moment before he returned to the car.
The blue car fell in behind Lex, once again headed for the warehouse. He passed them as the turned off to park. Circling to the next building, he parked in the empty lot and got out. Moving unseen into the vacant building he returned to his post across from the loft.
His nest allowed him a perfect view into the master bedroom, through the long sliding doors of the small balcony. From here he could watch them if they were in this room. To watch them in the rest of the loft he had to cross to roof of their building and watch thru the skylights.
Lucky for him they were making a night of it. His dark eyes observed as they entered the bedroom, the girl in front, a small smile on her mouth. The man sat back and lit a cigarette; this could prove to be another long night.
xxxxxxx
Same Time: Lex's Bedroom
Ashley stood before the long glass doors trying very hard not to smile too wide, the thrills that coursed through her were exhilarating. The opulent décor of Lex's room swirled around her in a mosaic of shining metals and rich fabrics. She could hear him move into the room behind her and she suppressed a shudder of delight. He had not yet given her permission to speak.
Lex set the white bag down on an ornate Moroccan brass table, his eyes on Ashley. She stood with her back to him as he had instructed her. She had done very well on the ride back. She had refrained from speaking, even when he called Fortuna Messina and made an order in Italian.
She had not spoken when he stopped to pick it up and placed the white package in the back seat filling the car with delicious scents. When they reached the loft, he sent her up to the bedroom. She complied without comment.
Discarding his jacket, he moved across the room to stand behind her, his arms encircling her waist, her smaller soft body yielding to his strong embrace. He pushed the tangle of russet curls aside and leaned his head down to the bare expanse of her neck.
His warm breath danced over her nape, making her tremble. Lex splayed his hands over her belly pulling her hips against his, her curving bottom pressing against his hardening groin.
Ashley gasped when his lips touched her neck, tasting the delicate skin. Her head lolled forward allowing him full access to the back of her neck. His mouth moved down her neck to the tight muscles of her shoulders, biting softly as searching hands moved up her torso possessively. She moaned at his touch, the sound light and breathy making Lex smile against her flesh.
"Take off your clothes." He whispered before stepping back from her. The sudden absence of his body and touch made her dizzy for a brief second, she resisted the urge to turn and look at him. She took a deep breath and brought her shaking hands up to remove the garments.
"Face me." He said in an even voice. She turned on her heel and looked at him with a willing gaze, his face remained passive and unreadable. He leaned against the dresser and studied her with expectation.
Her fingers hooked under the fragile fabric of her top, drawing it over her head to reveal the red lace bra. The fabric fluttered to the floor while his eyes stared into hers. She undid her suede pants and peeled them off slowly, bending at the waist to draw them down her shapely legs.
Once she had kicked them off her feet, she put her hands behind her back to undo the bra clasp. She slipped the creation of silk and lace off her arms and dropped it with the rest of her garments.
Lex felt a wave of lust working up his chest; her movements were sensual giving him more fuel for the growing fire. Her full breasts bobbing as she bent again, she slipped off her panties, kicking them aside with a dainty foot.
Standing straight, she looked at him, his eyes roamed over her bare white flesh. She remained stock still though her body throbbed with the mounting desire his eyes sparked in her. He parted his lips, running his tongue along the bottom one, blue eyes darkening with a passion he kept in check.
"Put your hands behind your back and close your eyes." He said crossing his arms. She complied with a furtive look on her face. Her eyes closed, hands clasped behind her, she assumed the submissive posture easier then he expected her to.
Lex smirked to him self and opened the bag from Messina's. Long hands withdrew a container full of chocolate dipped strawberries, taking one out he walked to her.
"Open your mouth." He purred. Ash opened her mouth, her pink tongue twitching in eagerness. He made her wait a beat, indulging in the site of her open mouth, waiting to be filled. He pressed the sweet to her mouth, running it along her lips slowly.
She licked the chocolate delicately at first. The understanding of what he fed her becoming apparent, white teeth grazing the chocolate skin Lex watched her draw the fruit further into her mouth.
"Bite down." He said. She bit the berry with enthusiasm and red juice trickled down her chin. The image stirring his pulse and sending blood to his cock in a rush, he leaned in and licked the juice from her skin, before kissing her softly.
Her mouth opened to his eagerly, the taste of chocolate, strawberry and Ashley was delectable to his pallet. Delving deep with his tongue until she moaned again, he pulled back and fed her more of the berry. He shuddered when her lips brushed over his fingertips as she reached the stem of the fruit. She smiled, eyes closed licking her lips. Lex enjoyed the display, kissing her once more before turning away.
He returned to the bag and brought out a container with ladyfinger cookies that had been sandwiched together with sweet cream. Watching her as she waited for him, her pink nipples hard, implying her willingness. He broke a piece of the cookie and placed it in her mouth, spreading the cream across her lips with one finger.
The new taste distributed to her taste buds accompanied by the press of his fingers to her mouth was delicious. She chewed the confection, he watched. Her tongue working to obtain all the cream he had spread over her lips, her submissive posture again making his pulse thump hard, he knew he had to move on.
Setting the paper container down he began to take off his shirt, removing the cufflinks and setting them aside. She waited in silence, listening to the sound of expensive fabrics against skin. He tossed the linen button-down on a chair and removed his leather shoes, toeing them off and kicking them aside. The slacks went next; all the while Ashley stood mutely with her hands clutched behind her, eyes closed.
Once he had stripped bare, Lex walked back to her, reaching out a hand to caress one rounded breast. She shuddered at the sudden touch, a small sigh escaping her. He leaned down taking her head in his hands, fingers grasping her hair he kissed her roughly.
This time his kiss was more commanding, his tongue pinning hers exploring the expanse, his bare chest hard against her soft curves. The intensity made Ash open her eyes; pulling back Lex arched one eyebrow.
"You were not told to open your eyes." He said flatly. Ashley colored and lowered her gaze. Lex let his eyes move over her shivering form, she thrummed with expectancy. He shook his head and walked to the nightstand. Opening the top drawer he brought out a white satin aviator's scarf. He returned to her side and held it at arms length.
"Do you trust me?" he asked in a low voice. She nodded and raised her eyes to him. He turned her to face away from him again. With a knowing smile, Lex tied the scarf around her head, blindfolding her.
The fabric was soft against her face balancing the total blackness she was enveloped in; the seductive jolt made her a slightly lightheaded. Ashley could feel him standing next to her; the closeness making her blood pound. Lex knew she was ready for the next aspect of the lesson. He guided her to the bed, laying her down on the duvet.
Lex drew her hands up over her head and crossed her wrists; he reached down behind the pillows, pulling out a long silken rope. He used it to tie her wrists together above her head, firmly lashed to the headboard. He gave the rope a tug to test it was secure.
Ashley lay on the bed, hair splayed across the pillows with her knees crooked closed, unable to see where he moved next. The tantalizing pose drawing a deep groan from Lex as he leaned over her. He took his time running his hands over her prone body, stroking every curve.
Fingers dancing across the silken softness beneath her breasts, she twitched and moaned at this touch. Ash arched to his hands tortured by the sensory overload she was experiencing. Lex lay next to her and ran his fingers in light feathering strokes up and down her body.
She panted and moved to meet his hands in a more substantial way, yearning for the solid contact. Lex moved to hold himself over her compliant body. His lips pressed against hers in a nearly chaste manner, his body all but in contact with her craving skin. When the docile kiss ended she came very close to speaking, a small mewl of protest escaping her.
"Be silent, I will be right back." He said before moving away. The absence of his body heat made her shiver. She could hear him walk across the room and out the door, bare feet sounding on the metal stairs. Her ears strained to listen for clues to where he had gone and what he could be doing. Nothing she heard gave her any idea what he had gone after.
The minuets seemed to drag past; Ashley felt a tiny fear that he had left her there helpless. That this was some strange torment he had devised for her. She then caught the sound of feet on the carpet and the bed dipped as he climbed on. His warm palm moved over her thigh, raising goose bumps on her flesh.
She waited for him to kiss her again, wanting the taste of him and the full body contact. She felt his breath warm and damp against her torso, moving slowly. His mouth touched her belly, trailing soft kisses in circles. She moaned again whishing she could touch him.
He considered the way her pink lips parted to let her tongue run over them only to be replaced by her small white teeth, which bit and chewed on the soft skin. His hand slid lower, hovering close to her mound, sensing the warmth the radiated off it.
He shifted his position to give him self a better vantage point. Lex grasped her knees in both his hands spreading her thighs apart, leaving her open to him. She felt his lips on her inner thigh, biting and sucking a path toward her sex. His hands kneaded the muscles on the backs of her legs, moving to cup her round ass tightly. A storm of pleasure hung over the horizon, making Ashley moan uncontrollably knowing where his mouth was headed next.
When his tongue slipped between her outer lips, she flinched and made the most delicious sound. Lex's tongue traced the edge of her folds until he reached the little pink nub. She hissed sibilantly as he took possession of her clit. He drew it between his teeth, alternately sucking and licking the firm button of flesh. Ash went wild under him, her hips bucking up to meet his mouth, her arms jerking at the rope.
He pulled his head back, looking up at her; her bottom lip was clamped between her teeth close to drawing blood. He pinned her knees to the bed with both hands holding her still and lower his head once more. He loved the way she tasted, like honey and spice and something sharper.
One hand let go of her hip and skimmed up her side, manicured nails grazing her ribs as he closed his long fingers over one breast, holding in firmly. He worked her clit ruthlessly, waiting for the signs of her impending climax.
She cried and groaned her brain no longer in possession of her body. When her back arched and she began to moan steadily louder, he withdrew suddenly. Ashley cried out in surprise, her heart pounding in her chest, the nearness of pleasure practically painful. Lex sat back on his heels and watched. Hands holding her knees still and wide, the flushed color of her sex giving him indication of her arousal.
"No, not yet." He said in the directing tone he had adopted in the car. "You will not come until I tell you to." He reached out his hands, running them over her heated skin.
Ashley mewed in frustration, his hands sending tingles out everywhere he touched. The hot breath returning to her belly and following his hands up. His thumbs grazed her nipples simultaneously; the sensation was shocking to her over loaded brain.
Likewise the suddenness of his mouth on her left nipple, biting first then sucking and back to biting. Ash panted, completely in Lex's control, she tried to keep up with this new awareness of her body and it's reaction to his touch.
He abandoned her throbbing nipple, his mouth blazing a path down her side, nipping at her ribs. He stopped at her hip, drawing figure eights with his tongue on her hipbone. Enjoying the squirming and the sounds she made, Lex took his time. While his mouth distracted her, his fingers slipped between her thighs and plunged into her with a swift vigor.
The deep-throated noise she let out, gave Lex a feeling of gratification making his cock twitch in answer. He moved the two fingers deeper into her, surrounded by the heat of her, curling and probing for the right spot. The spot that would bring her close to the brink once again.
He found it quickly, when the fingertip brushed that place inside her Ashley cried out his name in a pleading way. Her hands clutching at her restraints, she twisted her hips toward his hand, seeking the release it promised.
Slowly he pulled out of her, again distracting her by sinking his teeth deep into the tender juncture of her thigh and hip. The pain-pleasure made Ashley cry out in sharp disbelief. The bite was hard enough to leave a red impression of his teeth in her flesh.
He smiled and sat up; she quivered on the bedding, her breath escaping in short pants. The fact that she was entirely under his control made the heavy feeling of jealousy fade into the background, she was his here, now, wet and wanting. He rolled her over onto her stomach, taking a second to admire her creamy white skin.
She gasped and wordlessly cursed him for his teasing and frustrating torment. He pushed her up onto her knees, her bound hands forcing her to keep her head down on the pillow. She turned to rest her face on the side of her arm. Unable to see, she waited for him to touch her again. She could hear his breathing was now heavier and full of lust, his want of her made her sex quiver in response.
His hand slid up over one cheek of her ass, rubbing slowly, savoring the feel of her soft skin, the other hand brushing up the back of her thigh, tracing unknown patterns. She moaned unsure that she could form a coherent thought other then 'please'. His devious fingers found their way into her again, thrusting, this time spreading her open.
Her hips moved to meet his hand instinctively, his thumb slipping between the outer folds to grind into her clit. Ashley cried out in surprise and intense pleasure. The electric shock of the duel sensation caused her to cease all movement. She was frozen at the brink of climax.
Lex pulled from her again, knowing she was about to come. He backed away, his own breath becoming harsh, blood burning in his hard shaft. She was so wet and so very ready, he took a deep breath, grasping her hips in his hands. He had to take her now, now that she was begging and desperate for him.
Ash was delirious with the near orgasm; she didn't know he was about to enter her. He thrust the full length of his hard cock into her; she wrenched her head back and cried out. Lex gasped at the feel of her tight around him, gritting his teeth he took her hard, harder then he had yet. His bucking hips rough and demanding, Ash let out small gasps and squeaks between plunges.
His fingers dug into the soft flesh of her waist as his hands moved up her torso. More than sex, more than desire, he was claiming her, making Ash his own. He leaned closer, his hand finding her hair and pulling her head back. He covered her with his body, his teeth sinking into her shoulder another sign of his possession. Her hips pushed back to meet his force while his mouth brushed her ear, his breath making the hair on her nape rise.
"Do you want to come?" he whispered. Ashley gasping, her whole being crying out yes. Lex drove into her harder, waiting until she whimpered and begged. He released her hair hands moving to cup her breasts tight.
"Come for me, Ashley." He growled against her back. The edge she had been dancing on for so long fell away and Ashley tumbled into pleasure, white hot, stealing the air from her lungs. Her body convulsed under him, back arching, muscles clamping tight around his cock.
Keeping him self in check, Lex resumed his upright position and pounded into her with out pause. The first climax barely passing before a second took her, making her moan louder then she ever had. The pleasure rippled over her skin like raindrops, causing her to pulse around the cock inside her, Lex pulled out, sitting back on his heels panting. So close, he had too much planned to give in just yet. His cock twitched in protest wanting the warmth of her body again.
She collapsed on the bed breathing heavily body shivering with aftershocks. Lex refused to give her any time to recover, turning her over once more. Leaning over her, close enough for her to feel the body heat that radiated off him, Lex made an oral search of her neck and collarbone.
His mouth searing her heated flesh like liquid fire. She again whished she could touch him. She pushed her breasts up against his chest, the firm nipples tingling. The contact sending a whip like shock directly to his balls, he groaned and claimed her mouth violently. Lex released her mouth and licked her lips with slow strokes. She raised her head to thrust her tongue into his mouth hungrily kissing him. Lex pushed his hand back down between her legs; she flinched and closed her thighs firmly.
He pulled from her mouth and pushed her legs apart again. Her sex was a deep glistening pink and definitely over sensitized. She pleaded with him, not wanting him to touch her just yet. He instructed her to be quiet.
Lex left the bed for a moment. Ash trembled on the rumpled sheets pulling at her restraints slightly. Her overwrought body fearing his touch and begging for it at the same time. Lex returned, forcing her knees open once more, he spoke softly when she resisted him.
"Shh, Ashley, trust me." He said. His fingers grazed the taught nub of nerves, she cried out.
"Not Yet!" she begged, his strong hands holding her legs apart though she attempted to close them. She felt his fingers leave her only to be replaced by a startling cold, wet sensation. Lex was running an ice cube on her overheated sex. The feeling was incredible. The noise Ash made was almost a cooing, Lex smiled as she began to relax, muscles going slack.
When he took the cube in his mouth and brought it to her clit, the combined heat and cold was exquisite. He rolled the ice between his tongue and lips, making a dance of fire and ice over her clit. The ice soothed her while his mouth began to work her up once more.
In only a few minutes, he had her quivering again. Lex knew if he entered her again, he would not be able to hold back, he would come into her with intense pleasure. Only, he was unsure that he could prevent himself from giving in to his baser lust, he feared he might hurt her, that was the last thing he wanted to do. Lex decided to change the playing field. He pulled from her and reached up to untie her hands. He slid from the bed pulling her with him.
Her arms felt heavy as he helped her to stand on her wobbling legs. He tied her hands behind her back, leaving the blindfold on. He took another ice cube and began tracing the edges of her nipples, the contours of her abdomen and the hollows in her throat with the cold wet square.
She shivered as the ice painted across her body, goose bumps returning with a vengeance. The experience was truly entrancing for Ash, she found her self waiting for the next brush of cold and the warmth of his fingers that followed. When the ice had melted, he placed a hand on her shoulder, applying easy pressure.
"I want you on your knees, Ashley." He said, still dominant. She felt her knees sink into the thick carpet as Lex's hand caressed the side of her face. She turned into the caress her lips kissing the palm of his hand. His thumb brushed over her lips, she took the digit into her mouth sucking slowly, inside was warm and soft. Her tongue rolling over his thumb making his cock jump in envy, Lex gently pried her mouth open. She whimpered slightly when his thumb vacated.
She felt the head of his cock touch her lips; she opened her mouth to accommodate his thickness. His hand moved to the top of her head, fingers digging into her hair. She took as much of him as she could manage, working her mouth until he made that noise she knew meant he liked what she was doing. Without being able to see him, she had to rely on her hearing.
Lex was amazed at how quickly she had taken to fellatio, considering she had never attempted it before him. She sucked eagerly, her wet mouth sending electrical jolts through his groin. He looked down at her, watching his cock slid into her mouth reminded him of that first morning they shared breakfast. How the sight of her eating a banana had giving him heated thoughts, he smirked letting his head fall back.
She drew him as deep as she could, deeper then she had before. She swirled her tongue around the silky skin of his cock, liking the feel of him in her mouth. She wanted to make him feel as incredible as she did. Learning what gave him pleasure was a great deal of fun; there were many things she had yet to try but she was more than willing.
Lex felt the tingling in his skull begin, the orgasm was building, and he pulled away from her. Her mouth felt suddenly empty without his cock, a longing to have it back between her lips. She felt him pulling her to her feet; he removed the scarf and turned her around to untie her hands. She shivered in the hope that he would not tie her hands again, that she would now be able to touch him. Lex dropped the rope, his hands massaging the blood back into her fingers.
Once she was free, she wrapped her self around him, their mouths melding together in a fierce kiss. His hard shaft poked at her soft belly. While still kissing, they stumbled back to the bed, rolling over the bedding loving the feel of each other.
She drew one leg up around his hip, grinding her wet sex against his pelvic bone. He growled and kissed her fiercely rolling once more. Lex settled on his back with her on top of him, moving her legs to straddle his hips. She held his smooth bare head in her hands; her soft fingers feeling his pulse beat in time with hers.
Lex moved his hands between them, brushing her clit as he moved his cock into place. Her fingers grazed the shiny scar of his stab wound, she absently wondered where he got it. She felt him driving at her entrance yet again, he pushed her hips back to sheath him self in her. She moaned against his chest clutching his shoulders.
He echoed her moan and slowly eased her to a sitting position, her hands splayed on his abdomen. He rocked her hips with his hands showing her how to find her rhythm. After controlling everything they had done all night, Lex had turned the tables giving Ashley the reigns. She caught on quickly, setting a stimulating pace. She liked that in this position she could feel the entirety of him deep in her, the feeling made her rock faster.
Before long she was riding the crest of a new orgasm, he was not far behind. The sensation of her, the sight of her, the smell of her all collided in him at once. Ashley rode him with abandon, her head lolling back, breasts bouncing, her fingers digging into his shoulders.
The tight sheath clenched him as she gave a horse cry. Lex surrendered to his pleasure as well, hands grasping her ass fiercely and with a throaty groan, he came into her hard. The orgasm shaking him to the core, Lex held her tight when she fell against him.
They lay quiet, her forehead pressed to his cheek, breathing in unison allowing the soft haze to settle. When she rolled off him to lay her head on his shoulder, Lex wondered how he managed to catch her. Where had he gone right? She was everything he wanted and few things had had never imagined.
The wondering led him easily into sleep. Ashley felt to his heartbeat against her cheek, this had truly been one of the best days of her life. If things stayed right here on this plateau, she would count her self a happy woman. Ashley drifted off feeling on top on the world.
xxxxxxx
Next Day: The Loft, sundown
Ashley set her bag down on the kitchen counter with an enormously triumphant look on her face. After so many years of heartbreak and disappointment, she was truly happy. Lex had dropped her off following their trip to his attorney's office. His lawyers had negotiated her the sweetest signing deal in the history of Metro Records. Peterson and his associates wanted her on their roster whatever the price.
The list of benefits they offered made her head spin. She had full artistic freedom; a four record contract and a guarantee of top-notch promotion just to start. After conferring with the lawyers, Lex had assured her this was a sound deal. She had signed on the line while Lex watched with a deeply satisfied smile. They walked out of the office holding hands, leving a wave of smiles behind them.
He had driven her back to the loft and promised with a kiss he would be home to take her out so they could celebrate, he just had to meet with his father.
Out?Lex was really going to take her out in public? He had given her that crooked grin and pushed a loose strand of hair back from her face.
"I don't care who knows about us. I want to show you off." His blue eyes shined with delight. Her chest swelled with joy, she was determined to live up to that pride he had for her. Standing in the galley kitchen she spun on one foot and squealed with glee.
She dialed Bruce's number and hoped he was home; she had so much to tell him. His voice mail answered, she left a giddy message asking him to call her as soon as he could.
Setting the cell phone down she grinned to the empty apartment. She had decided to tell Lex how she truly felt tonight, to tell him she loved him, no matter what his real feelings for her. She needed to share the bubbling emotions even if he didn't feel quite the same.
She knew he cared for her, deeply, but if he could allow him self to love her, she did not know. It really didn't matter; she had enough love to carry them both.
Walking to her bedroom, she opened the closet and pulled out a dress wrapped in plastic. She had purchased it only two weeks ago, knowing that with the men in her life there would always be something she needed a fancy dress for. Good thing she had, she mused while unwrapping it.
She had picked a green satin Chosun dress bordered in black. The emerald fabric was embroidered with silver thread in patterns of flowers and Chinese dragons. The cut was shorter then the traditional style, when on it would just cover the tops of her thigh high stockings. The slit in the side would show a provocative sliver of her garter belt and thigh. She laid out her clothes on the bed and headed for the shower.
She took a long time, singing to her self, making sure she was as soft and scented as possible. She dried off and put on the black silk lingerie; bra, panties and matching garter belt; she then donned the seamed black stockings.
Wrapping her self in her dressing gown and still humming, Ashley began to blow dry her hair. Once it was dry and silky she rolled the auburn locks into a French twist, allowing curling tendrils to frame her heart shaped face. Using the make up Vi had left with her; she painted her eyes in a daring way.
While applying her lipstick, Ash heard a loud thump followed by the sound of glass shattering in the main room. Alarm and fear laced through her, she remembered the night Lex had nearly caught an intruder. Stiffening her resolve Ashley went to investigate, there were a ton of guards just seconds away any how.
She walked out with caution, her eyes scanning the long room. On stocking feet, she padded across the dimly lit room, her hand clutching her robe close. In the middle of the living room area, she found a pile of broken glass.
Looking up, she saw that one of the skylights had been shattered. Her heart began to pound in fear. Who had broken it? She turned and walked swiftly to the call box next to the door, she had to alert security.
Before she could reach it, a strong arm caught her around the waist and spun her back the direction she came from. She let out a shrill scream and a hand covered her mouth. Ashley smelled a deep animal scent as a gruff voice spoke in her ear.
"Easy now, Luv. This'll b'over very soon." She kicked and twisted in his grasp, however his strength was great and he held her fast. One meaty hand pinched a pressure point on her neck. Ashley felt a weird prickling on her face before her vision faded to black.
The girl went limp in his arms. The dark eyed man slung her over his shoulder and raised one arm. An air-powered grappling hook shot up and caught on the lip of the empty windowpane. With a flick of his wrist, it retracted pulling he and the unconscious girl up to the roof.
The attack took only seconds to complete. After unhooking his gear, the man dropped a thick white envelope thru the empty skylight, it landed with a crunch on the pile of broken glass. With Ashley over his shoulder, he turned away and melted into the night
xxxxxx
As Lex pulled up to his warehouse building, he saw Phillips, his chief of security pulling one of the guards to his feet. His brow furrowing in consternation, he suspected another intrusion. Parking quickly, Lex jumped out and met them at the door.
"What happed?" he asked looking at the man who was shaking his head groggily. Phillips held out a small black fletched dart, his tall frame stiff with unease.
"Someone sniped him with a drugged dart." The man reported. Lex's eyes grew wide and his heart sank. Not good, not good at all.
"What about the others? Were they hit as well?" he asked. Phillips nodded, his face averted from Lex.
"Yes sir all of the guards were out cold. I was on my way to check on the loft when I found Grant on the ground here." Lex interrupted him, his heart climbing his throat.
"What about Miss Embers? Is she alright?" his voice was becoming horse. The man's face was grim.
"We have gotten no answer from Miss Embers." He hated saying it, knowing Lex would flip out. Ashley was alone in the loft, anything could have gone down. The young man scrambled for the door Phillips reached for his arm and held him back.
"Please Mr. Luthor, we have to secure the area first." He said attempting to calm his employer. Lex shook the man's arm off, his eyes shifting to a burning sliver-blue. Phillips understood his fear but refused to let his boss walk blindly into danger.
Lex insisted on accompanying Phillips up, they took the stairs two at a time and crept into the long hall slowly. Once they reached the doors he held Lex back with one hand. The guard took his passkeys out and unlocked the door, his weapon drawn. He pushed the door open and held it with one foot.
The flat was dark and still, no sound greeted them. Lex knew he was dancing on the edge of panic and swallowed hard trying to keep calm. Phillips walked slowly before him and gave Lex a curt nod.
"Ashley!" Lex called out, his voice laced with tension. They got no response. Phillips moved into the dark room letting his gaze sweep across the space. The light in Ashley's room threw yellow illumination across the floor.
Lex moved behind the guard and into her room. He found her clothes laid out, could smell her perfume in the air but no Ashley. His stomach dropped and he fervently searched her closet knowing she wasn't there. Taking a deep shuddering breath Lex attempted to calm his pounding heart. He hurried back out as Phillips discovered the glass and the envelope.
"Mr. Luthor! Over here!" He shouted shining a flashlight from his belt on the pile. Lex reached his side and bent down to look at the strange letter.
His eyes cast upwards for a moment, noting the broken window. His fear was gradually shifting, anger was moving to the forefront of his mind. His sharp eyes grazed the white envelope as if it was to blame.
There was curling black writing on the paper, it read:
To the Two Princes.
Lex could guess what that meant.
He reached out and picked up the envelope. His heart was slamming against his ribcage; a sinking dread robbing his lungs of air. He hated the fear he felt at this moment, hated the weakness it displayed.
Inside the envelope was a letter in the same scrolling hand and two smaller sealed envelopes, one said Lex Luthor on it, the other Bruce Wayne. He opened the letter and began to speed-read the contents.
His fear rapidly became rage, the red emotion sweeping over his skull in a deep flush. He tore open the smaller envelope addressed to him. Phillips had no idea what the letters said but he could tell his boss was going to want blood; his eyes glittered with a darkness the guard had never seen in the young billionaire. Lex turned his back to the bewildered man standing rigidly, his breathing harsh.
"Phillips, I want you to go down and secure the men." He said, his voice dropping to a deadly tone. "No one is to say anything about this until I give permission. Wait for me to call you." The guard nodded, thinking for a fleeting moment that he wanted to ask what the letters said, he quickly let that thought go and exited the loft.
Skirting the glass on the floor, Lex walked to his desk. He picked up the phone and dialed Bruce's home number. Alfred answered after two rings. Lex gritted his teeth and spoke in a measured tone.
"This is Lex Luthor, I need to speak with Bruce immediately. Ashley is in trouble."
xxxxxx
Gotham: Grounds Keeper's Cottage of Wayne Manor
Darkness was spreading across Gotham as the sunset, bringing another night of work for the city's guardians. The mid-December snows blanketed the rolling grounds of Wayne Manor, most of the scarring left by the fire now covered in pristine white. The night promised to be cold and bitter, not that it would detour the street scum any.
Walking stiffly around the bedroom, Bruce was just getting started. His lateness due to an especially rough preceding night, he suppressed a groan of pain and pulled his dark clothing on. There had been far more chaos then he had expected, the flaw made him angry, he should have known better.
In the weeks since Batman had brought Falcone down, the average citizen felt safer and more secure, this was a growing fact. No matter what the government said, they saw him as a savior not a dangerous masked vigilante. However, his dramatics had brought out a new kind of criminal as well.
Most nights The Batman found him self facing off against villainous masterminds, mentally deranged individuals bent on terror, power, or both. They were a pathetic lot, taking hardly any effort to out smart.
He had little trouble containing them and seeing that they found their way into police custody. Now the black streets had given birth to a new and vile creation, a psychopath of unparalleled proportions. Something darker then the fools he had faced before.
He called him self 'The Joker'. His theatrical tactics married with a garish sense of fashion had left too many people underestimating the danger in his gleaming grin. When his homicidal spree had begun, Bruce had investigated the creep's origins. What little he could find was chilling to say the least.
No name, no past, just a story about a heist gone bad resulting in a accident. The person who became The Joker falling into a vat of deadly chemicals. Remarkably, he survived the exposure though drastically changed, mutated.
From his bleached pasty skin to his brilliant green hair, he was a nightmare. His maniacal grimace more frightening to his victims then the death it promised. His brain had been fermented as well, all though still sharp and cunning he now took vicious pleasure in murder, mayhem, butchery and torture.
He proved to be a master of escape, always twelve steps ahead of the cops and one step ahead of The Bat. The subject of the Batman was a sore one with Joker. He was developing a special hatred for The Bat, a fixation if you will.
Even though Bruce had yet to catch the laughing freak, he had managed to foil many of The Joker's dark plans. Despite his convoluted schemes and his elaborate weapons, the Bat always halted his plans.
The night before, Bruce had caught the Joker and his henchmen in Chinatown, massacring the patrons of a massage parlor. The fight was brutal, The Bat took many hits, including two bullets. When the dust had settled there were five of the Joker gang for the lock up, still the Joker him self, got away.
Bruce stood before a long mirror assessing the damage. One hole in his upper arm, a through and through, now bandaged. One in his calf that Alfred had to dig out, bandaged as well. Three cracked ribs, several bruises and numerous abrasions. What hurt the most was his failure to apprehend The Joker. It hung heavily on his shoulders making his mood black. There was a sharp knock suddenly and he swung his head toward the door.
"What!" he barked irritably. Alfred cleared his throat calmly, the soft sound making Bruce feel ashamed at his temper. Alfred was the most loyal and patient man he had ever met, he did not deserve Bruce's disrespect.
"Master Bruce, Lex Luthor is on line one. He said it was very urgent, I fear Miss Ashley is in danger." The man's polite voice conveyed deep concern. Bruce's stomach dropped and he felt a bitter coldness steal over him.
"Thank you Alfred." He replied before picking up the line. "Lex, what's going on?" he asked without greeting. Lex spoke in a dark tone enunciating every word clearly.
He explained about drugged guards, an abduction, the broken glass and strange envelopes left behind. His calculating mind took in the information, while Bruce's heart clenched painfully. Pushing through his own fear, Bruce noticed that Lex was nearing something like panic him self.
"This bastard uses the moniker 'The Son of the Shadow'. I have no doubt he will make good on his threats to hurt her should his demands not be met." He said. Bruce cursed loudly.
"Did the letter say anything else? Anything that might help us find him?" Bruce asked fishing for more, there was a long pause before Lex responded.
"Bruce, I think it would be best if you got here as soon as possible. There are things we need to discuss before the 8am deadline he has set." Lex's voice was edged letting Bruce read between the lines. There was more in the letter, something Lex did not want to talk about on the phone. The sinking continued, Bruce closed his eyes.
"I understand." he answered. "I will be there as quickly as I can." Hanging up the phone, Bruce buzzed for Alfred and pondered what Lex had told him.
'Son of the Shadow'?
He felt the darkness enfolding him. Did the name mean what he thought it might? What had this maniac said in the letter? Could he know who The Batman was? He had demanded money from Lex, what could he want from Bruce? If he wanted more money then why the separate notes in sealed envelopes?
He had relayed something that made Lex uneasy that much was evident. Or could it just be the younger man was worried about Ash? At the thought of his beautiful little cousin, Bruce clenched his fists in black anger.
This was exactly the kind of thing he feared for her, even before telling her about his crusade. If this had anything to do with what he suspected, Bruce was going to have to watch his step. However, if this bastard hurt Ashley in any way, he did not think he would be able to control The Bat. This could very well end in bloodshed.
xxxxxxx
Somewhere in Metropolis: Around 2am
Cold, dank air rushed over Ashley's skin rousing her from her stupor. Her head swayed on her neck, her bleary eyes trying to focus. An ugly knife-like pain shot through her head, making her moan. Her mind registered that she was bound and gagged. Her arms and legs fastened to a metal folding chair with duct tape.
A foul tasting cloth was crammed into her mouth and held in place by a length of rope. Her body felt stiff, cramped and cold, her robe had been removed leaving her shivering in her lingerie.
Ok Ash, get it together, she thought to her self. She tried to keep her mind clear, needed to assess where she was, the bare walls and dirty floors revealing she was in some kind of storeroom. Ok good, now what storeroom, who had brought her here? Her mind replayed the last thing she remembered, the broken skylight, the peculiar smelling man who grabbed her and the prickly darkness.
What did this man want? She remembered that Lex was returning home soon to take her out, her heart sagged with sorrow. Her lungs seemed unable to get enough air, her fear was strong and she gasped for air through the gag. How would any one find her? How would Lex know what had happened? How would Bruce, even in his capacity as Batman, be able to get her out of this?
The feeling of joy and security that she had come to accept was rapidly slipping from her grasp. Knowing she could not fall into despair, she had to figure out a way to save her self, Ashley slowed her ragged breathing.
A small cough made her look around wildly, shadows stretched out in all directions making frightening shapes to her terrified eyes. She heard the sound of feet scuffing on the floor off to her right. Squinting in the gloom she located the source of the sound, her abductor stood a little ways off holding her robe in one hand and a lit cigarette in the other.
She could see his eyes shining in the muted light, his face in shadow. She tried to speak thru the gag, her words coming out unintelligible noise. The man continued to stared from his shade. 'What do you want?' She tried screaming around the fetid fabric.
Her fear sharpened as he began to walk toward her with leisurely steps. Dragging her wrap across the dusty floor he stopped a few feet from her. She looked up into his face; he was tall, black haired and muscular. His features were neither ugly nor handsome just average; his eyes however were black and evil, he drew long on his cigarette and exhaled into her face.
Ashley choked on the smoke and turned away. He laughed and dropped the cigarette to the ground crushing it under his boot. He brought her robe up to his face and breathed her scent in.
"So sweet." He said his words had a thick Cockney accent to them. He leaned slightly, his hand reaching out toward her. Ashley cringed as he drew a thick finger up the valley of her cleavage to grasp her throat in a wide hand. He squeezed just hard enough to make her pulse race.
"Don't fret Luv, I'm sure yoor' brave Princes'll come fru, then ya' kin go back to yoor' posh lil' life." He said bending down into her face. "Tho' some fings'll be differen'." She smelled the animal musk again and her stomach churned.
He was talking about Lex and Bruce, he had made demands of them, ransoming her. She was in an utterly powerless position, unable to hold back her terror Ashley felt the hot tears spill down her face. The man clucked liked an old woman and wiped the tears away with callused fingers then snickered.
"Oh, there, there, yoor' too pritty' fer tears, Luv." His voice was mocking. He held her by the face, looking her over, his fingers digging into the soft flesh of her cheeks painfully. His black eyes seemed to ponder her for long moments. Ash's eyes pleaded with him, probing for some mercy in him. He shook his head, a sinister smirk creeping over his mouth.
"Y'know when I's doin' me research on yoo', everyfin' I found said yoo' was a lezbo. Imagine me surprise ta find ya' in Lutor's bed." He stepped back dropping the robe and crossing his large arms over his chest. He looked down at her in a judgmental way.
"Said no ta so many men..." His face creased in a menacing way. "But when the 'Prince o' Metropolis' asked, ya'was damn quick ta spread yoor' legs, wasn't ya'?" he walked slowly away. Ashley felt sick, his crude words digging hard. He turned his head, showing his profile in silhouette.
"An' what a' eager littl' slut yoo' are. I wonder if Bruce Wayne'd be angry ta know dat Lex Lutor -as been fuckin' 'is belov'ed littl' cousin, like'a cheap whoo're?" He turned back to face her, his continence even darker.
"Ahh, the 'Prince o' Gotham'. He -as a nasty shock comin' -is way." His teeth flashed carnivorously. "Ya' when 'Ta Batman' arrives 'dere'll be many aston'ishments an unexpect'd reve'lations." His voice dipped low.
Ashley felt panic rise, he knew about Bruce. This could only be bad. Even worse she was being used to get to him, the though made her deeply angry. That she would be used to put her cousin in danger was incredibly insulting. She pulled at the tape in sudden desperation. The man just laughed and walked deeper into the darkness, his mordant voice drifting back to her.
"Stop pretendin' Princess. I knows -ow much yoo' like bein' tied up."
xxxxxc
Lex's Loft: Earlier in the night
Phillips pulled the elevator gate up to allow Bruce out. The tall man smiled at the guard and thanked him before continuing down the carpeted hall. As he raised his hand to knock on the door, it opened. Lex beckoned him in with a grim face. Bruce stepped into the loft and set his bags down.
"I came directly from the airport." He said looking over the flat before settling his gaze on Lex. The younger man was a mess, at least by comparison. His face was drawn and paler then normal. His tie hung in a lose loop around the collar of his rumpled shirt. His eyes were red and tired looking.
Lex extended one arm toward the expanse of the apartment. Bruce kept his eyes on Lex a moment longer assessing his reaction to the crisis. Lex's voice was as ragged as his appearance.
"No one has touched anything, except for the letter." He turned to thrust the crumpled paper and the unopened envelope at Bruce. Bruce accepted the papers with a cursory glance, Lex's behavior would tell him far more then the rantings at this point. The fact that Lex was more then a little buzzed made Bruce slightly uneasy. Luthor turned and beckoned him with one hand.
"This you have got to see, maybe you can tell me how he did it." Lex's words were very sarcastic. He turnd his laptop to face Bruce and hit a button. A surveillance tape played in a loop. Showing the glass falling to the floor and Ashley emerging from her room.
The girl was hesitant as she walked to the middle of the room to find the broken window, she turns on her heel and runs for the door. A growing knot in his throat, Bruce watched a black figure step out of nothing and snatch her. His jaw clenched when the man used the pressure point to knock Ashley out and slip up the skylight with her over his shoulder. Bruce looked at Lex who watched the looping seconds of film with a grave face.
"I had cameras put in after we had an uninvited guest just a few days after Ashley came here." Lex's voice lilting for a moment. Lex shook his head suddenly and looked at Bruce with strange distrust.
"I have secured the 2 million for my part. Let's get yours handled." Lex's voice was bitter again. Bruce watched him cross to the bar and pick up a large tumbler of amber liquid. He tossed the scotch back and waited for Bruce to say something.
Still not sure of the younger man's intentions, Bruce walked to the pile of broken glass and crouched down to examine it. Lex set the now empty glass down with a clatter. His voice was sardonic.
"Be sure to check her room as well. That was why I left it all untouched." He turned to Bruce an angry look in his eyes. "I knew 'The Batman' would want to investigate himself." Lex's hostility was palpable. "And if that is true then this is all your fault! This fucking psycho will kill her to get to you." The acid in Lex's words came across clearly.
Bruce closed his eyes and took a deep breath, standing slowly. He held the envelope in his fingers for a moment. Lex watched him in seething silence.
Bruce opened the envelope with his name and read the paper inside. He read it twice before folding it back up and reading the main letter. He held out his hand for Lex's letter.
Giving the dark haired man an incredulous look, Lex pulled the crumpled paper from his pocket. Bruce read it quickly before handing it back. Lex stared at him, murderous rage fraying his patients. Bruce bent back down to examine the glass again, he sifted gingerly thru the shards nodding to him self. When he finished, he walked mutely into Ashley's room.
He moved thru the large room and could feel his cousin in the space. The dress on the bed felt soft to his touch, the still damp towel on the floor of the bathroom giving off her scent. There was no sign of struggle in this room, only her preparing to go somewhere.
He walked back out his gaze sweeping over the rafters of the loft. He stopped to turn around in a circle. He made a -humph' sound and returned to the glass. Lex finally snapped, he hurled his glass across the room, shattering it against the bricks.
"God Damn it Bruce!" he shouted. "Say something!" his breath coming in angry heaves. Bruce understood Lex's anger and frustration. He could sympathize with Lex's utter terror for the girl they both cared for. He had to keep things calm or they would never catch the bastard.
"What is it you would like me to say, Lex?" he replied in an almost bored voice. Lex had a darkly comical thought that if he had any hair he would most definitely be pulling it out by now. Swallowing the cynical thought and held his hands flat against the counter top.
"Bruce." He said looking over his shoulder at the frustrating man. "Are you really...The Batman?" his voice was calmer now, but he had not lost the desperation that shown in his blue eyes.
Bruce knew he had pushed the younger man as far as he could. Picking up one of the larger shards of glass he crossed to Lex and looked him directly in the eye.
They stared at each other for a long stretched moment, Bruce making his final decision. Lex became a better man when Ashley came into his life and would remain so as long as she was there, this Bruce was certain of. But what if she left him? Or he left her? Where would that leave Bruce and his secrets?
Sighing deep, Bruce concluded he would cross that bridge when and if it came to pass. He stepped closer to Lex and looked him in the eye.
"Yes, Lex. I am The Batman." His voice grew graveled as he spoke. " I believed this 'Son of the Shadow' to be a disciple of a recent enemy and it appears I am right. If we are to get Ashley back unharmed, then we need to catch him unaware before the deadline." He held the shard out to Lex pointing to a fine black dust that coated the glass.
Lex was stunned and simply blinked while Bruce explained that the dust proved the glass was shattered by an explosive.
"The intruder was inside already when the glass was broken." He stated walking toward the stairs to Lex's room. "The explosion of glass a distraction to hide his advance on her." He removed his long coat and stared at the ceiling. Lex looked from the glass on the floor to Bruce then up at the dark ceiling.
"What? How did you come to that conclusion?" Lex asked feeling out of his depth for a second. Bruce shrugged and clicked on a small flashlight, Lex had no idea where he had pulled it from. Bruce shined the light up into the rafters of the loft. Her ran the beam along the ceiling showing Lex a thin cable.
"What the fuck is that?" Lex asked feeling more lost by the moment. Bruce clicked the light off and looked at him.
"I imagine it is how he moved thru the loft without being seen." Bruce nodded to the camouflaged security cameras in the four corners of the loft. Bruce continued his investigation and explanation.
"It's connected to the walls at either end of the room." Bruce pointed to the pins at each end that had been shot into the brick walls. "Probably had modified repelling gear to hang there and wait for his chance." Bruce's voice was deep; Lex could sense the bubbling anger beneath his words.
"All this tells me he has had time to wait and time to watch." Bruce surmised before turning abruptly and climbing the spiral stairs.
Lex pondered the strange cable; that someone had been in his supposedly safe space, that he had been able to plan to this extent left Lex with a sensation of paranoia.
"Do you have cameras in the bedrooms as well?" Bruce's voice drifted down to him.
"No." he called back his mind still mulling over the complexity of this intruder. With a start Lex realized Bruce was headed for his bedroom and hurried up the steps.
Bruce walked into the ornate room and suppressed his smirk. He expected as much from a Luthor. Ignoring the décor, he looked around for any other signs of the unwanted guest. A wall of thick velvet curtains covered the sliding glass doors to the balcony.
Bruce crossed the room to open the curtains when his sharp perception caught a glint of silver in the dark carpet next to the bed. Changing his stride to retrieve it, he picked up the object and held it in his hand, a completely different fear washed thru him.
Lex walked in eyes wide, looking for other cables in the rafters, he dropped his eyes to Bruce who was standing perfectly still.
Without speaking Bruce held out the delicate silver chain with a flawless emerald charm set in silver, Bruce had given it to Ashley on her first visit back to Gotham. Lex's blood ran cold as he looked into Bruce's darkening eyes.
There was no mistaking what Bruce was thinking, finding her favorite piece of jewelry on the floor in Lex's bedroom, next to the bed. Knowing Bruce was probably planning his death right now, Lex gave in and opted for the truth.
"Bruce, it's not like that." He said holding his hand out. He sucked in a deep breath and said the words. "I...love her." he finished, looking Bruce in the eye. He could feel his pulse throbbing at his temple.
There was a long pause as Bruce studied him, his gaze running over Lex's face as if searching him. He noted the dark circles under Lex's eyes and the tightness in the younger Luthor's posture.
Bruce's head dropped and he looked again at the necklace, he felt she was far too young for this, but knew he was powerless to stop it. He knew Ashley was too far in love with Lex and now he had to admit, Lex had fallen hard for her as well. He wondered if either of them knew how much the other felt. He raised his eyes to Lex.
"I know you do." He said softly. "It's just a surprise. I didn't think...already..." he looked at the wall and shrugged, not wanting to have that conversation presently. He pocketed the chain and pulled out the letter addressed to him.
"I think you should read this before we go any further, Lex." Bruce held out the paper his brown eyes shining in the lamplight. "You need to know what we are up against." His tone sounded bleak as Lex took the paper and walked to the lamp on the nightstand.
The beginning of the note was the same as Lex's, pompous ranting about the privileged prince in his solitary castle. Then the letter took a darker slant, where in Lex's letter he had demanded the sum of two million dollars Bruce's got rather psychotic.
The writer began to go on about -The Master' that Bruce, a.k.a. The Batman had killed. He stated that he was seeking revenge and would have it one way or the other. Lex felt his stomach dropping to the floor as his eyes took in the ugly words.
Traitor, you must find where I have taken her and you must do so before 8am. If you do not show your self by 8:01 am, I will be forced to take my justice out in the flesh of your only living blood relative. Should you prove your self the yellow bastard I know you are I will give little Ashley the full attention of my -artistic' side.
First, I will tie her down so she can't fight me, then I will have a go at her my self, until I get my fill. Believe me, I will take great malicious pleasure in sodomizing her while thinking of your cowardice. Then, I will employ my trusty scalpel to remove strips of her skin, using my -creativity' to recreate her.
Once I have finished that, I will take my straight razor and rework her face. Her screams should be incredible. But even the most beautiful have a few things that could be removed. Trust me, once I get thru with her she will be completely changed. Then I will return her to Luthor's door, where I am sure he will get her away from him as quickly as possible.
The only way for you to prevent this is to be on time. Batman or whatever you call your self, you will pay for your treachery with your life. When I kill you my master's murder will be avenged, let Luthor pay in gold, either way you pay in blood.
Take this advice, keep your friends close but your enemies closer and Try to see the forest for the trees.
Lex dropped the paper as his vision blurred, his blood pounding loudly in his ears. Turning on his heel, he shot into the bathroom and was violently sick. His body heaving in horror at the danger Ash was in.
His hands gripped the porcelain as he scrabbled for control of his body. What could he do to save her? Nothing, he was helpless, only Bruce could guide him in this despicable affair. The weakness made Lex resentful but only briefly.
Bruce took a deep breath and picked up the fallen letter. He waited until Lex reemerged from the bathroom. Their eyes met for a moment, Bruce could see the fleeting blame in Lex's gaze as he squared his shoulders. Lex placed his hands in his pockets and inclined his head to Bruce.
"Perhaps, you should tell me the whole story." Lex suggested. Nodding, Bruce complied as he walked back to the drapes. Finding the pull cord, he explained the history between him self and -The League of Shadows'.
How he had studied and trained with them only to find they were bent on destroying his city. How he escaped them and came home, only to find that their leader, Ra's Al Ghul, had survived and was still intent on the downfall of Gotham. Then the fire at the manor and the battle in the city, Al Ghul's assumed demise on the uni-rail, Lex listened with rapt attention.
"So now, it seems this fool was follower of Al Ghul and he blames me for his death. I know these men, Lex, he will keep his word." His voice broke slightly and he looked out the long windows, scanning the opposing buildings.
Lex squashed the anger he felt, the rage at Bruce for getting Ashley into this insane mess. He knew Bruce never intended her to be involved. He tried to focus on the task at hand.
"What did he mean with that advice Shit?" Lex quarried stepping up next to the taller man at the window. Bruce's eyes narrowed and he turned suddenly to Lex.
"How many men do you have on hand?" he asked, Lex thought for a second.
"About a dozen I suppose. Why?" Lex asked with one brow raised. Bruce began walking back to the stairs motioning Lex to follow.
"Send them and any reserves you can muster out to search all the buildings in this area. Every building! Tell them if they find no guard or any unoccupied they are to break in. He had to be close to have watched her for some time." Bruce spoke rapidly as he descended the stairs with Lex close behind.
"If we can find his nest there will be clues. That is how he wants to play this." Bruce crossed the main room and picked up his bags. He looked back at Lex who was dialing his cell.
"You stay here and be head quarters. I will go out and search in my own manner." His voice dropped again giving Luthor a slight shiver. "I need to borrow your car." He said holding one hand out. Lex looked at him for a moment before reaching into his pocket.
"What for?" he asked. Bruce too the jag keys and nodded to Lex.
"It would be best if Bruce Wayne left before Batman showed up." He said with a grim smile. Lex nodded in understanding.
"Good point." Lex said as Bruce slipped out the door. He gave his men the orders and told Phillips to join him in the loft. They had limited time to find her and Lex could not stifle the fingers of fear that gripped the back of his neck. He hoped she was unharmed, that they would find her in time.
xxxxx
Bruce drove the silver jag down the night street until he found a dark alley. He pulled in and parked the car. Getting out he took the large metal case and headed behind the decrepit dumpster. Squatting down he unlocked the case and began to unpack his -night clothes'. Standing he pulled his casual garments off and quickly dressed in his suit. Once he was strapped into his armor, he folded his civvies up and put them in the case.
After returning the case to the car, Batman locked up and pulled the cowl over his head. Time was ticking away for his cousin and he did not intend to let this freak do to her what he promised. Looking up the side of the building next to him, he found the fire escape ladder a few yards away. With a slight grinding of metal, the ladder came down and Batman was up.
Once on the roof he could look out over the warehouse district, with his binoculars set to night vision he could just make out Lex's men as they fanned out into the streets.
With a small grunt, he headed for the building across from Lex's, the one that faced the bedroom. Bruce had a hunch that was where the nest was. Leaping across the rooftops he made good time. Landing on the building with a soft crunch of gravel, he remained still, listening.
Finding nothing to give him pause, Batman located the access door and forced it open. Moving swiftly down the stairs, he reached the first floor and surmised that the building was unoccupied. He made a search of the floor.
In a middle room, he found what he was looking for. A sagging cot, straight back chair, wrappers from fast food joints and an over flowing ashtray told him this was where the bastard stayed. He leaned down and looked out the window, it looked right into Lex's bedroom. Cursing under his breath, Bruce began to search the debris for clues.
He had just discovered the envelope under the cot when the sound of Lex's men breaking into the vast room below reached him. Sipping the paper into his belt, he made for the stairs. It would be best if the men did not know The Batman was involved. It would help to avoid any unnecessary lies. Once he gained the roof, again he made the running leap back to Lex's building.
In the shifting moonlight, Bruce read over the contents of the envelope. What he found did not ease his mind. The sick fuck was still holding all the cards and now he wanted to take The Batman on a scavenger hunt. Sighing he tucked the letter away and pulled out a cell phone.
Lex was not going to like this.