An: One piece of criticism that I've been getting is that this fic is like a cycle. I've been trying to figure out a way to address that because it does have some merit. I think the problem is, the PTs are having too easy of a time doing their thing. So that's why I introduced the League of Assassins a bit earlier than planned. Well that and the constant morality questioning, which is why Batman and Joker put their foot down where they were. No more arguments just enemies and fighting, at least with the Bat-clan. Hopefully, with this arc and with the vain mirror I can properly address the dangers that are in the rest of Gotham.
Btw sorry for late uploads I had to take care of boring personal stuff but I should be back.
FEEDBACK:
Docron: Not well I can say at least.
Calderoneric758: The hints are already there that's all I'll say.
Drakon45: Shame friend. I actually have plans to break it. I just needed a finale of sorts for the morality argument.
Guest: Fate is definitely gonna have an existential crisis. In regards to Joker and summoning two personas at a time, I'll think about it.
Guest: That's an interesting theory. I might use that. A weakness born from Batman's cognition.
Guest: regarding Red Hood I don't like name dropping without involving them in some capacity. That's all I'll say.
KingKaper: Arsene/ Raoul might make an appearance later on. I just have to find a place to fit them into the story.
A fan: hehehe I don't know about that I want to save the Batmite beatings for later.
EternalKirby: Yeah I'm looking forward to Harley's palace too, because it has to happen I can't wait to dig into that head of her's. Interesting idea with the wings of rebellion using Arsene/ Raoul as a cape/glider I like that concept.
WARNING: Y'all know the drill by now. I'm not going soft anytime soon. Graphic violence, gore, mention/act of rape, sexual situation/ straight up lemons, mention/use of drugs, character death, and Bat-mite. The Dark Knight deserves a dark story. Please avert your eyes from the following if you are sensitive to any of the above.
I don't own Batman, Justice League, Persona, or Nekopara
Enjoy~
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May 15, Early Morning
Cloudy
Sewers
White Rabbit yawned as some of her boys unloaded the crates of disguises. A hundred new saps were working for the Phantom Thieves. Where they came from she doesn't have a clue, it's like they fell out of the sky or some shit. Whatever. The prototype seemed to please Crow and Joker when they took it for some chick last night so that was something. Now to give her normal gang leader speech.
"Thanks boys. Now scram, hate to look dependent in front of the new recruits." White said. The boys nodded and left her as she walked a few feet to the wall, she picked up a pipe and slammed it against the wall in a pattern to alert the team to her presence. Crow approached.
"Have trouble getting here?" Crow asked.
"Aw~ You do care." White teased.
"I'll take that as a yes. Where do you acquire all these disguises anyway? Aren't you wanted by all of Gotham by now as well?" Crow asked.
"You have your secrets I have mine. Friends of friends of friends, favors in exchange for favors. You know how it goes." White said.
"I suppose it doesn't matter as long as you weren't tracked." Crow said.
"If these associates of mine dare betray our deals I'll kill them in a second. Like how I would you should you betray me or the girls." White retorted.
"Please. Like such a deal will be betrayed. Remind me never to go to the cafe again. Those friends of yours are a bit too touchy for my liking." Crow said remembering his first encounter with the younger sisters.
"Aw they're harmless. Back to business, where are they? Are they hiding in the grates or something?" White asked.
Crow whistled and several women popped out of multiple grates, pointed their swords at her and wore some greek armor.
"So that's a yes then." White smirked.
"Swords down. This is an associate of mine and the Phantom Thieves protect her with your life...for now." Crow said darkly. The swords were sheathed and the women stood at attention.
"Oof. still don't trust me huh? Even though I'm putting basically all my chips down on the group?" White asked.
"I trust no one." Crow said simply.
"Eh. Your loss tall, pale, and brooding. Who's the commander?" White asked, and two people walked through.
"I, Antiope and my advisor Philippus are in contro, splitting the women in half." Antiope said, eyeing this strange woman up and down.
"My eyes are up here, love. First things first is ditching that armor, can't have Gotham thinking we are copycats of Zues after all." White kicked down a crate revealing clothing exactly like the uniform Donna wore with Joker. She walked over and opened another crate taking out guns and ammo.
"What garish garb. And such barbaric weapons will not be used by my troops." Antiope hissed.
"Crow, did Joker seriously find the only gang in the world that doesn't use guns?" White scoffed.
"We will use our arrows, quick and efficient, with no need for ammo until we pull it out of our enemies hearts." Antiope glared down at the woman.
"I believe they are trying to say they don't know how to use guns. Where do you find these gals at a renaissance fair?" White laughed.
A sword was pointed at White's neck in response, silencing her, but her smirk remained.
"You dare mock our great culture? The Amazon warriors will kill triple you are able to with our swords and bows. You are lucky this boy says you are needed." Antiope growled.
"Triple huh? I guess I'll just have to see that claim proved, hmm? Sorry to offend your "great culture". When Batman takes you all out in seconds I'm sure you'll learn." White huffed as she pushed the sword away and walked back to the crates picking up a mask and throwing it to Antiope who caught it no problem.
"I don't believe their claims either but Joker's word is final. If he fails I'll kill him myself." Crow whispered in White's ear. She nodded satisfied with that at least.
"LADIES! Welcome to our little show. Please line up. Each crate has various sizes of your new uniform. If you can't find a fit, tell me and I'll gladly get ya a different one. Surely by the way you guys dress, image is everything in Gotham. The core theme of our operation must differ from past ones if we are to be taken even a little seriously. Now, the armor you are wearing will go under the leather, but I also brought kevlar for the more modern among you. Batman doesn't kill but the rest of Gotham will not hesitate blowing your brains out of those bronze helmets. Please take that into consideration when deciding on your armor." White said.
"When you are done changing, please return to your posts. I know you all hate it, but remember what Joker and your god said. If Batman finds out who you really are...people die." Crow said, darkly.
"What are ya thinking regarding names? Just stick to the classic 'Phantom Thieves'?" White asked.
"I believe the vote came down to the 'Fist of the Phantom Stars'." Crow said.
"It will do. Seriously where did you find these chicks? The only other group I know of that doesn't use guns are the League of Assassins." White said.
"The who?" Crow asked.
"Whoops…" White said, smirking.
"Oh no, please share your important intel." Crow said passive aggressively.
"Not much, just that there is some ninja group operating around Gotham somewhere. No idea who leads it, no idea where they're based, just that they are quick to kill anyone who sees them. Lucky me, I haven't except for the girl Penguin has in his little museum as captive. She just mediatates there, like she doesn't care. Really creepy." White said.
"That's all hm? How disappointing." Crow said.
"Just be glad we didn't draw their attention. Well, I think we didn't at least. Let's just say I hope these girls or on the same level. Everyone else is after us so why not them?" White said, gravely.
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May 15th Early Morning
Cloudy.
Tim Drake's Temporary Apartment.
Tim pulled the string and tacked it to Joker's picture. Like his favorite detective's growing up, he always liked doing a room filled with bulletins and pictures to help him think of possible leads and suspects. That was the advantage of being a middle child he supposed. While Bruce is busy with the company and mainly more focused on the "clown" Joker and Riddler as of now, he maintained his focus on the Phantom Thieves. Cass was tasked with the new string of murders with the new killer Clayface, Dick was in charge of oversight of the rest of the Titans. Even Damian is busy with his more tedious exams and training. One common problem detectives had in real life is the sheer amount of cases they had to oversee. Not so for Tim, he was tasked to be hyper focused on the thieves by Dick,and he did just that.
I think one of our issues is that we are not stepping in their shoes enough. Thinking like them...what would I do in their situation.
It was Bruce's most basic tactics, but even he could forget from time to time. Tim noticed Bruce was caught in a cycle. A cycle of being hit, and being forced to play defensive, last night was the final straw for him, for everyone. The lines were drawn clear and all arguments were done as far as he was concerned.
They are too hot to be out hopping across roofs, the Batwing would spot them, as Bruce put it on constant surveillance duty. With finding Riddler's little puzzles and searching for sightings it's killing two birds with one stone. But they are not focused on the Riddler to his knowledge. It was no help to speculate.
Rooftops are a no, White Rabbit is housing them somewhere but that doesn't take into account transport. Are they just using that Lavenza girl's door maybe? But how many can that house have? Portals were a possibility, but they need something more stable. Even the watchtowers have space ships as a backup, and relying on such a powerhouse as only transport is a waste of talent. No...I would do something else, Joker has all the demons of Hell possibly scurrying about Gotham doing his bidding. Something else is being used.
Tim chewed his pen in thought, glaring at the board in thought. Perhaps Gotham maps would help. He laid down the massive map of Gotham on his giant computer monitor. Looking at possible back allies they used or buildings. He circled some suspect buildings that were abandoned or newly bought out. But that would be looked into by the others, he needs to focus on transport, how do they move about.
Car transport is a no go, the Batwing would have spotted them exiting the vehicles. Unless they donned new disguises which is also a possibility. That's on the board, too much movement with cars though would draw a pattern too though, licenses, drivers. Even if it was unmarked Bruce would be able to properly track it. And they knew about his resources.
Shit...cars are nothing but trouble to them. Subways...maybe...but he knew Penguin and Joker were in a constant war over those tracks and tunnels. There would be a shootout on the spot if the Phantom Thieves were seen wondering there. No no no….Think...Think…
Tim searched throughout the map but it was no good. Nothing would work out in the Phantom Thieves favor. So how...He knew he was missing something.
His head shot up. He pulled out sewer maps. An old labyrinth of filth and decay...he didn't remember who last had claim over them. He picked up his comm.
"Yes, Master Tim?" Alfred answered.
"Alfred, pull up surveillance footage of sewer entrances on screen. Do you know who has current claims over those tunnels?" Tim asked.
"The past month's scans of rumors say a monster lives down there, a bunch of gangs tried to overtake it but were never heard from again. That's all I have." Alfred said as the surveillance was pulled up, showing them being taken down by giant hands months ago. Tim narrowed his eyes.
"Croc...that's it...that's how they're moving...Alfred put me through to Bruce. I got a possible lead." Tim smirked.
"Of course sir." Alfred said.
The cycle ends here.
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May 15th, Midday
Cloudy
The Bowery
The Phantom Thieves followed Morgana to Selina's block, they hoped to bypass most of the rainforest by getting close to the source of the distortion.
"Everyone ready?" Akira asked.
"Yes." Sumire said.
"Are you sure we shouldn't at least ask for Selina's permission before we go through with this? It feels forced to me." Ann said.
"I suppose that is true. However if Bruce can't get through to her, I don't we will they seemed to have a very deep history. I wonder how it all started." Morgana said.
"I agree with the cat. It's clear that there's no other option regarding this. Seeing a more personal side of the Bat will be a big advantage as well. See how he ticks." Akechi said.
"I...I guess that's true. But something feels off about all of this. I feel like someone is watching me or something." Ann shivered.
"Yusuke you haven't been stalking her again have you?" Ryuji asked.
"Preposterous. I thought I made it quite clear I have no interest in her as a model anymore. I just couldn't get a proper emotion to come across in the work. An artist knows when he is bested." Yusuke said.
"It's probably Bat-mite again. I remember feeling the same with Roman's palace. Just ignore the bastard." Ryuji scowled.
"That means if Ann is feeling it we have confirmed Selina as Ann's mirror. We would be forced into doing her palace in the future regardless." Akechi said.
"I don't like the idea of playing right into his hand then. Especially if Ann has to go through the same shit I did. It wasn't fun, I still have nightmares." Ryuji said.
"I...I'll be fine then...it's either do it now or be forced to...I still feel bad for intruding into Selina's mind like this. But I'll do it if it means that piece of shit can't kill anyone else." Ann said, strengthening her resolve.
With that they headed into the dense jungle that was Selina's cognition. They cut through various vines and leaves with their swords. The heat was harsh but they pushed through it.
"Hey, I think I see something up ahead." Violet said pushing through the bushes. She looked at awe, and the rest of the team joined her to see what it was. It was an enormous golden temple, with clear Mayan influence. Waterfalls fell down each step, large cat shadows and nekomatas roamed the building, this was Selina's palace alright.
"Good work. Now to find a way in. Doubt someone as closed off as Selina will let us into the front door." Joker said.
"Agreed." Crow said. They prowled through the jungle, keeping their distance. Eventually Fox found a possible entry, a little crack similar to the one Mona used to enter Selina's apartment. It was much larger to account for the larger shadows.
"Kitties~ You are new ones aren't you? Our Mistress has but one rule in return for her unending love. You must give riches to our city of gold." A large shadow stopped them in their tracks.
"How much are we talking?" Joker asked.
"Whatever you can give Kitties~ Without starving yourselves of course, our mistress is ever merciful." the shadow purred.
"Joker, I would advise against giving away unnecessary amounts of money to these shadows, we can't risk gambling what little funds we have available at the moment." Queen whispered into Joker's ear.
"Understood. Skull, let's see how strong you got from that new persona of yours." Joker smirked as he jumped onto the shadows shoulder and ripped off its mask. It roared in pain as it transformed into a giant bipedal cat.
"Hell yeah, bring it!" Skull rolled his shoulders and charged the creature with his mighty electric moves. The sheer strength of his power made the shadow turn to ash in one hit.
"Lame." Skull said, disappointed.
"I'm sure this is only the first of many, nice to know you can hold a fight by yourself though Skull." Mona said.
"Let's keep it going, Skull, Panther, and Mona are the front lines. Everyone else, provide backup." Joker said as they continued.
It was clear Selina didn't want anyone in here that wasn't a cat, multiple traps were strewn all over the palace, the gang had to be very careful where they stepped. It reminded them all of Futaba's palace except very hostile in terms of shadows. The team hid in the shadows as a monster touched certain tiles to open a hidden passage.
"I wonder where Selina is. I haven't heard anything to find out where the treasure might be." Mona whispered.
"Beats me. But this place is like a frickin maze, it's crazy that we haven't gotten lost." Skull said.
"I've been mapping the place out. No need to worry." Joker said, using his third eye to try to find any other passages.
"Safe room nearby." Oracle said.
Inside the room oker took inventory, they've been at this for a couple hours now, with little to show.
"Everyone good?" Joker asked.
"I'm pretty wiped dude." Skull admitted. In his charging in he wasted most of his energy on frying shadows. It was clear his electric powers were more powerful, but more power meant more energy spent.
"Noir, take his place, Skull rest up in the back." Joker said.
"I'm having a hard time sensing the treasure. We must be barely scratching the surface of this place." Oracle said.
"We should keep going until we encounter at least a will seed or something good to go home with." Crow said.
"What do you think this maze represents? All the halls look the same. Much like Shido's ship it is easy to get lost in its halls." Queen said.
"Most likely her conflicted nature. She tries to find some semblance of direction, in her morality, or her purpose in this jungle. But can not due to how long she has been compliant to the chaotic nature of it." Crow theorized.
"Woof...didn't get most of that pancake boy." Skull said as he sipped his coffee.
"I wouldn't expect a man of your….let's say personality to understand Skull." Crow retorted.
"WHAT WAS THAT?!" Skull roared.
"Enough. Let's keep going." Joker said.
They left the safe room to make a little more progress. Little did they know the palace ruler knew of their presence.
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May 15th, Midday
Cloudy
Wonder Tower
Talia sipped on some wine as she looked at her own map of Gotham with a scowl.
"Tell me, how are a group of master assassins unable to track a group of teenagers? How is it that you all have nothing?" Talia hissed.
"We are sorry Mistress. There is nothing to report." a lackey bowed.
"This is ridiculous. I expect more of this group." Talia growled. Just then another lackey walked up urgently.
"Hm? Do you perhaps bring good news?" Talia asked.
"I am uncertain. An unknown group of women have been spotted crawling around the sewers. I fear they might stumble on an old passage to the great Lazarus pit, through those ruins that connect to it." the woman said.
"An unknown group? Interesting...and what's stopping you from killing them where they stand?" Talia asked.
"They mention the names you gave as masters. Leaders in their fight, I wished to tell you before any action was done." the woman said.
"The Phantom Thieves are using the sewers eh? I thought our agreement with the monster down there was fair. But it looks like we can trust nothing but our own. Gather a squad, how many were there?" Talia asked.
"I believe they mentioned a hundred strong." the women said.
"Then gather 25. I doubt they'll be anything special to us. I'll join you, hopefully we'll run into Joker down there and have a little talk. But if he refuses we flush them out." Talia grinned wickedly.
The Phantom Thieves think they can tread on the League's borders and get away with it...No...they are lucky Father wants them alive. But a few missing limbs were not off the table.
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May 15, Midday
Light Rain
Selina's Palace
The Phantom Thieves came across a large cylindrical room that shot up multiple floors. Water flowed in and out of the multiple tunnels, several shadows lapped their tongues in the water. In the middle of the room stood a will seed. The skull growing in the vines, with Panther's mask upon it. Joker narrowed his eyes at it.
"Obviously a trap Joker." Crow rolled his eyes at the room.
"No other way forward." Joker said.
"Probably gonna have Selina taunting us. We need that will seed though, I doubt Bat-mite will count the palace as completed without thiem. The bastard's petty like that." Mona said.
"Ya know me so well." Bat-mite appeared out of nowhere.
"AH!" Violet screamed.
"Seriously? What do you want now?" Skull asked.
"Panther to go alone. Same as Skull did." Bat-mite smirked, evilly.
"Wha...why?" Panther asked.
"Ugh...blondes. Were you not listening last time?" Bat-mite groaned.
"HEY! I listened! It just came so suddenly!" Panther yelled.
"Would a spin of the ol' wheel ease your heart?" Bat-mite asked.
"Nononoononono! I'll do it." Panther sweated.
"Thought so. Bat-mite out." Bat-mite threw up two peace signs as he poofed out of the hall.
"Hey...You gonna be ok?" Skull put a hand on her shoulder.
"I...I have to be. I can't have anyone die because of me. Well anyone else." Ann thought solemnly about the two friends she lost on the day of her death. She took a deep breath and smiled weakly, taking Skull's hand off her shoulder and holding it gently.
"Wish me luck." Panther said.
"LADY ANN, THERE HAS TO BE ANOTHER WAY!" Mona cried out in panic.
"Look after them Mona. I won't be long." Panther crouched down and rubbed both hands on Mona's cheeks, sending the cat into a dream like state.
She got up and walked towards the will seed. It really was an exact replica of her mask, she noticed as she came closer to it. Suddenly the room rumbled and the door she came in through with the rest of the thieves closed, leaving her friends to cry out in worry. She looked back as it happened a bit frightened but now there was no other way out of here, other than giving Bat-mite what he wanted.
She stared down at the skull as she raised her hand hesitantly, inching it closer to the skull. She closed her eyes in preparation, knowing what Slenia went through wasn't going to be pretty. When all of a sudden.
WHIP!
A whip slapped her hard onto the ground, she cried out in pain as the hand raised was gripped by a woman. She narrowed her eyes to try and find out who it was.
"S-Selina?" Panther asked.
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MIRROR LOVERS RANK 5/10
SKILL ACQUIRED: CAT FIGHT
Selina has shown her cognitive form.
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"Don't you dare even touch it!" Selina hissed. She looked quite different in her palace. She wore a stereotypical yet very revealing treasure hunter outfit. Her midriff and tights exposed from the tight fitting clothes, her cleavage barely prevented from pooling out. The only difference being the tail swinging annoyed from her backside. Her nails were a dark black, sharpened into claws, contrasted her metal finger swords Panther saw her wear. Her short dark hair was covered with an Indiana Jones style hat with cat ears poking out. She glared down at Panther through her pink cat style goggles, those benign the only thing to carry over into the cognition world. Her mother snarled covered in dark red lipstick.
"Ow! You're hurting me!" Panther cried as Selina's grip on her wrist tightened.
"I should have known you would have tried to come here. I should kill you where you stand, Panther." Selina hissed.
"What?! I don't understand! What is your problem with me?! I just wanted to learn from you!" Panther cried out.
"Of course you wouldn't understand ya blonde bimbo! You're so airheaded I bet I could fit a whole house in that head of yours and there would still be space. I want you to leave, now, leave me alone and never come back." Selina demanded.
"But...But you promised to teach me. We had a deal!" Panther retorted.
You promised
You promised
You promised.
You promised you would keep me safe Selina.
A pulse blasted through the room, as Selina clutched her head in pain, releasing Panther to leave her to wonder where that voice was coming from.
"I..I'm sorry...I'M SORRY!" Selina bursted into tears.
"S-Selina! Are you okay?!" Panther rushed to Selina's aid, leaving thinking for later in order to help her friend.
"DON'T TOUCH ME! GET AWAY!" Selina screamed as she jumped up to a higher floor. She paced on all fours as she hissed at Panther.
"Selina! Let me help you!" Panther began to tear up.
"SHUT UP SHUT UP SHUT UP! GET OUT OF MY HEAD! It's enough for her ghost to haunt me every night. I was miserable enough before you came along, saying the same things she did! GO AWAY BEFORE I KILL YOU TOO!" Selina roared as multiple shadows appeared around Panther.
"Please...you're my friend. I can't leave you like this!" Panther reached out to her as the shadows charged her, she was quick on her feet, dealing damage to the three monsters that appeared, they were rather weak. It was clear they were more a show of intimidation to make Panther run away.
"YOU WANT TO LEARN FROM ME SO BAD?! Beat these guys and maybe we'll talk." Selina challenged.
"Come Celestine!" The fire burned all of the shadows to crisps. Panther finished all three off with a hail of bullets.
"Dammit! Fine take the damn thing, and leave you got the treasure fair and square. Now fuck off!" Selina hissed.
Panther was quick to take the will seed, the memories were starting to form in her mind's eye. Selina was running off as Panther spotted her.
"This isn't all I came for Selina. I WILL HELP YOU!" Panther cried out.
"I DON'T NEED HELP! DO WHAT YOU WANT BUT DON'T BLAME ME WHEN MY KITTIES KILL YOU!" Selina hissed as she retreated.
Panther sighed as the room was quick to transform and change back into the rainy streets of Gotham. She looked around and spotted a very young and very scrawny 7 year old girl running with some food in her hands.
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"STOP THIEF" the shop owner cried out to her running form. She panted through the heavy rain, this was her only option for food. Her father was a drunk, who beat her mother to the point of suicide. She recalled how her and her sister Maggie found her splattered on the pavement, the sight the young girl will never forget. She couldn't recall her mother's face, just the body on the pavement.
The yelling died down, soon it was just her in a dark alleyway, trying to catch her breath. The food would barely get her and Maggie through the week. Maggie was but a year younger but her form was way worse. When she came home she snuck the food into the hiding place. She let out a small smile.
"AND WHERE THE FUCK HAVE YOU BEEN?!" her dad raged, clearly already drunk.
"Out." the young girl said. She got a quick punch across the face from that.
"DON'T GIVE ME THAT BULLSHIT! The cops keep coming here sayin' ya stole shit!" Her father delivered another punch.
"WHERE IS IT?!" He screamed. Her sister started crying.
"Nowhere." Selina said, her resolve set on feeding her sister instead of this bastard.
"TELL ME!" He roared, as the assault worsened.
"*coughs blood* No…" Selina groaned.
The memory faded out to a couple weeks later, Maddie was fed but without her mother Selina got the brunt of the beatings. One day she found her father slack in his torn up recliner chair, a blank stare on his face. Afraid she and her sister left him like that for a couple of days, then the neighbors and workers checked in. Her father was dead, alcohol poisoning they said. Selina felt nothing short of relief at her father's death. Finally the beatings will stop and she can help Maddie in peace. But that's when social services came to take them to different orphanages.
"PLEASE DON'T TAKE HER FROM ME!" Selina sobbed as she was dragged away from her sister. This was the last time she would see her.
"You are a delinquent and need to be rehabilitated. A nice parent will be sure to adopt her unlike you." the man said as he dragged her harshly.
The Sprang Hall Juvenile Detention Center was just as abusive as her father, only worse. All the kids beat her, all the staff beat her when she begged them to help. She finally decided to take her chances on the streets. Hopping the fence and running and running until her legs gave out, the sirens booming after her, she returned to the streets of Gotham, a dropout with no prospects for the future. She decided to return to the only thing she was slightly good at, stealing to survive. She was now only twelve years old.
Days, turned into weeks, weeks turned into months. The only thing she had were the stray cats of Gotham to stroke through her tears. She remembered hearing something of a carnival coming to town and the opportunity to rob the tourists blind. Only she was caught by the owner.
A woman lion tamer, Irma Lancaster was her name. Her long black hair and green eyes shone light into Selina's world. Instead of being like every other adult Selina knew she took her in, gave her food, and taught her how to defend herself. Irma's no nonsense but still carefree demeanor was a quick earn of Selina's devotion. She still remembers the way the woman gracefully tamed wild beasts with her long whip, enamoring the audience with her grace and beauty. A tigress that dominated all around her. With her and the rest of the carnival crew Selina learned contortionism and gymnastics. Flying around the carnival on wires brought her some much joy. Irma was as much a trickster as a leader. She taught her everything she knew about magic and trickery, her improved sleight of hand helped her in her thieving and pickpocket skills, the woman even joining her on her exploits.
But what she wanted, begged for even was for Irma to teach her how to work the whip. And of course she obliged, she'll never forget how Irma leaned down and patted her head. Smiling at her as if she considered her her own daughter.
"My kitten. It brings me such joy to hear you say those words. But I must warn you the lion's den is not easy, only the strongest and most agile can tame these beasts. Are you sure you are up for the task?" Irma asked.
"YES MA'AM!" Selina beamed.
"*giggle* please I thought I told you before. Don't call me ma'am it makes me feel old." Irma hugged the girl. Selina tightly hugged back what she considered her mother.
The best years of Selina's life seem to speed on by, Lancaster was resolved in teaching Selina to survive in a man's cold and cruel world. Teaching her martial arts and dirty fighting tactics to get a one up on those who challenge her.
Those years wouldn't last however, the shining star of her life was to be extinguished. It was her 18th birthday, Irma had given her a surprise gift. A beautiful whip to call her own.
"You are a woman now my kitten. I am so proud of you." Irma smiles serenely.
"Irma...thank you...for everything…" Selina began to weep.
"Oh, my love, your tears won't due. Never show weakness to those who can use it against you." Irma scolded. But she kissed Selina's forehead and hugged her.
"Let us woo another crowd yes? I'm sure your opening act will be spectacular." Irma said.
Selina smiled in front of all the audience. She finally found purpose, a person she can call her family. But then…
BANG BANG BANG
"EVERYONE STAY COOL! THIS IS A STICK UP!" A squad of gang members rose amongst the audience. Their numbers were great as the audience was a great score. Screams fill the stands as they try to flee. The hail of gunfire that followed showed that they would rather kill and loot than talk things out.
"SELINA GET OUT OF HERE!" Irma shouted as she was quick to subdue multiple goons with her whip.
"I WON'T LEAVE YOU!" Selina screamed back as she too fought.
"That's an order, kitten. I won't let those I care for die to some scum!" Irma shouted, police sirens were heard, hostages were taken.
BANG BANG BANG
Bullets plowed through Irma's body.
"NOOO!" Selina screamed as she rushed towards her. She was quickly grabbed by another goon. He was clearly eyeing her up and down.
"Hold it right there doll face. Where do you think you're going with all that ass?" He founded her, and she was quick to elbow him in the face.
"AH YOU BITCH!" He roared as he shot his pistol. The police were there by that point the shootout and screams could be heard for miles.
Selina beat the man to a pulp and ran to her teacher, who was clenching her bloodied body.
"Irma…*sniff* hold on...please hold on…" Selina sobbed.
"Kitten...I fear I can not...a shame I didn't get to see your first performance." Irma ran a hand to Selina's cheek.
"Please...don't leave me alone again…" Selina cried out.
"Just remember what I taught you. Remember to hold yourself high. Play all these fools for chumps. Use your beauty and skill to your advantage against this cold world." Irma coughed out.
"Irma please. No…" Selina sobbed.
"Selina...I will always love you, always be with you. It's time for you to make your mark on the world." Irma said as her arm went limp and the life faded started to fade from her eyes.
"Irma...mom...please...I love you." Selina weeped.
"It...will be ok...Selina...it will be...ok…" Irma's last breath left her, thus leaving Selina to mourn all alone again. The sounds of Gotham's chaos and death around her.
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The memory collapsed, as well as Panther as the sheer amount of memories was a lot to take in for her. The room opened up for the rest of the team to rush to her collapsed figure.
"LADY ANN!" Mona was quick to check up on her.
"Her readings are stable. She's just unconscious." Oracle said.
"There is a safe room nearby. Let's go." Joker said.
"I'll get her." Skull lifted her up, bridal style as Mona didn't have the strength or form to do so.
Inside the safe room, Mona tried multiple revive spells to no success.
"Must have been too much in one sitting. I remember almost passing out too, but my anger kept me up." Skull said.
"If she isn't waking up I'm calling it a day. Can't have her state worrying us all. Let's get out of here." Joker said.
"Agreed. Let's get her home." Fox said.
"Crow, Noir, we'll take care of her, I need you too to find out more about this serial killer out there." Joker said.
"Understood." Crow said.
"Please contact me the moment she wakes up." Noir said, worried.
"Of course." Joker said as they left to the hideout.
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May 15th, Evening
Rain
Amusement Mile, PT Hideout
Ann murmured as she awoke in her bed in the jazz club apartment.
"SHE'S AWAKE!" Mona yelled from on top of her.
"Hey guys...oh...are we back in the real world?" Ann asked, getting her bearings.
"Ann...what happened in there?" Akira asked.
Ann looked solem for a second as she remembered all the memories she witnessed, like Ryuji she felt stronger for it, but it still hurt.
"Selina needs our help for sure. She just won't admit it." She explained the whole backstory.
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May 15th, Evening
Rain
Otisburg
"It happened here." Haru said, showing the cleared alleyway, cover in police tape.
"They did a shit job cleaning up the evidence." Akechi noted, looking at all of the clay residue.
"I recall them saying it matched some movie. The original "The Terror" that they are remaking." Haru said.
"Hmm...so that's all they said?" Akechi said as he rubbed so clay between his gloved fingers.
"Yes. I also heard reports of another murder of the same MO in Burnley. I don't know much about that one however." Haru said.
"Might have to steal the files to get a good idea of what this is. All I have are hunches, and no real suspects. I'm not a damn miracle worker." Akechi growled.
"That will be...difficult to pull off." Haru said.
"When was it ever easy. Has our little bug said anything about it?" Akechi asked.
"Not much. They just started the investigation." Haru said.
"Well, why not let them do all the work and we fix it once they say a name? I hardly have all the resources our adversary has." Akechi said.
"You are giving up that easily?" Haru asked, sternly.
"Why work hard when you can work smart. Mr. Wayne clearly won't let such things stand. It goes against that little code of his. He will track the killer down for us and we steal them right from under him." Crow said.
"I suppose it's our only option for now." Haru said.
Just then Akechi got a call, the ringtone made it clear it was his burner for White Rabbit. He was quick to pick it up.
"What?" Akechi asked.
A scuffle was heard on the other end, clashes of metal and gunfire from White blasted through the phone.
"DON'T WHAT ME GORO! GET YOUR ASS TO THE SEWERS WE ARE UNDER ATTACK!" White screamed.
"BRING US JOKER!" A voice was heard screaming.
"Oh yeah, and they want to talk with the boss man." White said.
"Is it Batman?" Akechi whispered.
"I fucking wish. Remember those assassin chicks I heard rumors of rumors about. Yeah they're here, and they want *STATIC*"
A dial tone was heard, Akechi frowned.
"What is it?" Haru asked.
"Listen to me very carefully. We are the closest to the sewers and they are under attack. I need you to follow my words to the letter." Akechi said, sternly. He dialed up Joker to tell him the news and plan.
"Agreed." Joker said simply before hanging up.
"Looks like your outlook on life is proving true once again." Haru said, sadly.
"I hate being right sometimes." Akechi agreed.
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May 15th, Evening
Rain
Sewers
Red Robin and Nightwing were entering the heart of the sewers. They decided to get an early start on tonight's plan. The investigation of the Phantom Thieves hideout.
"I should have thought of the sewers earlier. Can't believe it's evaded me this long." Nightwing said.
"That's what being a leader does to you. The struggles of the team can cloud the mind when not careful." Red Robin said as they walked.
"They can't keep going like this, every move they make seems to piss Bruce off more. And you don't want to piss him off." Nightwing said, when sounds of fighting were heard. The two quickly hid to observe. Two women were clashing swords violently, trying to clearly kill each other, the two were distinctive in their clothing. An assassin and another mysterious woman that matched Bruce's description of the new Phantom Thief.
"They're recruiting for sure." Red Robin said.
"No shit. The question is what the League of Assassins want with them. Did they make a move against Ra's?" Nightwing narrowed his eyes.
"Not to our knowledge. That fighting style looks familiar, but I can't place it." Red Robin observed the Phantom recruit.
"You dare attack our Mistress. Die warrior." The assassin cried.
"Enough of this child's play. If you wish to speak with our leader you have to earn the privilege." The Phantom hissed.
"What do you think? Should we see who's stronger?" Nightwing smirked.
"I want both sides of the story and if there's anymore fighting one will die." Red Robin said.
"Ok. You get the one of the left. I'll take the one on the right. Three...Two…" Nightwing counted down before a grenade was launched at the two of the fighters. They dodged it avoiding the blast to glare at the one who launched it. Out of the smoke came out Noir, with a miffed look on her face.
"Please. Do not kill Phantom. We must prove we are above such depravity." Noir said.
"They threatened us ma'am. Said they'd kill all of us if we didn't contact Joker." the Phantom said.
"Our mistress merely requested a seat at the discussion table. Surely such can still be obtained." the assassin said.
"Why didn't you contact us then Phantom?" Noir asked.
"They threatened us. Such things must be punished. They spit at our culture." the Phantom said.
"Call off the fighting before there are deaths on our hands. They wish to speak with us so desperately, let us hear what they have to say. Should they attack again however, you are free to attack them. Not to the death of course." Noir said as she pulled out a phone and dialed.
"Clear shot at Noir. Should we apprehend?" Red Robin asked.
"No. I want to hear what Talia and Ra's have to say. Might give us a lead into what they are planning." Nightwing said.
"Joker. An unknown group wishes to speak to you. I have no idea of their intentions, but they threatened the Phantom Stars if they didn't comply. Please come soon to the sewers." Noir said. She listened silently as Nightwing and Red Robin watched her walk away.
"We could snatch her phone and track them all down Dick. We should worry about Ra's later." Red Robin whispered tense.
"Shhh… have you learned nothing from Bruce? Don't ruin the opportunity for new intel. Be patient. Ra's is a slippery bastard and knowing where he is now stops the grand plan he is surely setting up for down the line. Just stay cool." Nightwing said.
The two Robins snuck in the shadows extra carefully, knowing that the League and the Phantom Thieves would be extra observant of their own methods of infiltration.
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Noir came across the Fist of the Phantom Stars fighting fiercely for their turf. The assassins were falling due to their lower numbers and underestimation of their foes. Then again they had no clue just who they were missing with in terms of skill.
She pointed her gun to the air and blasted a powerful blow, alerting all to her presence.
"THAT IS ENOUGH! Joker is on his own to decide what to do with these intruders. Should they attack again defend yourselves to the bitter end. But for now, let us see what they have to offer us. Where is White?" Noir asked.
White popped out and walked up to her.
"These chicks are all nuts. Seriously… Hey..Where's Crow? I called him no offense." White Rabbit whispered.
"Taking care of something. Where's the leader of this group?" Noir asked.
"Our mistress shall not show herself until your leader does." An assassin hissed.
"Fine. What of Mr. Jones?" Noir asked White.
"He caught a sniff of something and wandered off. Said something about revenge." White shrugged.
"Guess we have to wait then. *Sigh* What shall we do in the meantime?" Noir asked.
"Make sure these girls don't slit each other's throats. I've never seen such a tense room since...huh...kinda drawing a blank." White said.
"Looks like we have to play the waiting game." Nightwing said.
"Where did all these women come from? I count about a hundred, how did such a big movement of troops go unnoticed?" Red Robin asked.
"Rogues always find a way to adapt. I wonder what was so important for Crow to bail." Nightwing said. Nightwing felt something at the back of his head, he looked over his shoulder.
Crow held a gun right at his temple. The teen smirked.
"I believe this answers your question." Crow said.
"Shit." Nightwing said.
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Nightwing and Red Robin were on their knees tied up. They knew from Crow'sbody language if they tried anything he wouldn't hesitate to blow Nightwing's brains out.
"Well, you sure know how to give gifts Crow~. Been a while hasn't it boys?" White Rabbit ran a hand on Nightwing's chin, teasing him.
"Always a sight for sore eyes White." Nightwing retorted.
"You really should take a note from your father's stoic nature. Quite easy to hear whispers echo in these tunnels." Crow said, glaring at the two.
"No can do. Can't have only the villains monologuing." Nightwing said.
"Perhaps you can monologue about how you found us. Please enlighten me." Crow said passive aggressively.
"Literally the only person who can be tempted not to kill you on the spot is Croc. We figured you gave him food in exchange for your flesh." Red Robin said.
"I told you the sewers were too risky." Crow told White.
"Worth a shot. It's not like we don't have them dead to rights." White said.
"And now they bait the Dark Knight. I wonder how angry he'll be at his two failures." Crow glared at her.
"I thought the whole point of this was to beat him anyway. I see no problem, the League will stop him, our crew will stop him, or you guys will stop him. He's good but he can't possibly take on a hundred plus people solo." White said.
"*scoff* Keep telling yourself that White." Nightwing said.
"What's he gonna do? Bring the car down here?" White laughed.
The tunnels rumbled in response, the sparse lights flickered as pebbles fell down from the ceiling.
"He's coming. I hope you're ready to be blasted with 60mm rubber bullets from a railgun." Nightwing smirked.
"He'll probably just run them down and taze them all Nightwing. We both know how the car can do that to anything it touches." Red Robin smirked.
" The Knight is coming! Hide sisters, and prepare for an ambush!" An assassin cried.
"Bullets will do nothing to us. Let us defeat this chariot in the name of Athena!" Antiope yelled rallying the troops.
The Batmoblie blasted through the tunnels, Batman glared through gritted teeth at his enemies. No one captured his sons and got away with it. He unleashed the railgun on all of the room, the auto lock system knowing not to hit his two sons.
A hundred women rushed the vehicle and shot arrows at it.
Arrows. Don't make me laugh. Batman thought. He took down multiple women with the railgun but most were deflecting with some sort of bracelets they wore for armor. Batman narrowed his eyes at that. The swords, armor, and stances all pointed to methods he was familiar with. What were Amazons doing helping the Phantom Thieves he didn't know. Diana will not like the thought of dissenting warriors from her home land aiding them.
Before he could finish that thought Croc busting through a wall and tackled the Batmobile.
He roared loudly as he took the high amounts of electricity the Batmoblie discharged to combat it.
"I KNEW I SMELLED YOUR SCENT BATMAN! DIE!" Croc roared.
"Deploy nets. Divert all power to electrifying the metal." Batman typed in his car.
A large net shot back Croc and unleashed a massive shock to the reptile's body.
The monster roared in pain before going slack. Jones never was too bright when it came to attack.
"EVERYONE HANDS UP NOW! Do not test me." Batman growled over his intercom.
Noir ran through the crowd and pulled out a mighty axe, the swing was dodged by the Batmoblie's glared at the Knight switched to her grenade launcher, the shot was also dodged by the Batmoblie.
Not this time. Batman shot round after round of rubber bullets at Noir who was making evasive maneuvers. One managed to hit her sending her crashing into a tunnel wall.
"AH! How rude. You hurt Jones with that.. That thing. I'll have to teach you some manners Mr. Batman." Noir said a white circle was casted around her as she charged with a battle cry.
"Foolish." Batman unleashed a hail of bullets upon the girl. Despite it all hitting her dead on the bullets ricochet off her and back to the Batmobile. It did little damage but Noir charged into him did. She jumped onto the hood and slashed at the engine with her axe, the armor held and he shook her off using the thrusters again. She flipped off and shot her gun right onto the side of the car. The blast almost flipped the whole car over.
Batman narrowed his eyes, the Batmoblie could take another hit, but he didn't want to risk it being out of operation like the Batwing was. He held the ejector button and shot out tackling Noir and placing her into a choke hold and he beat her relentlessly. The onslaught was stopped only by Crow. He swung his sword but was countered by Batman who delivered a hard punch to the stomach, he threw the knocked out Noir at Crow, he dodged it.
"Enough of your fancy toys Mr. Wayne. Let us fight like men." Crow said.
"This is over. Surrender now." Batman demanded.
"Why? We still have plenty of people to fight you. More are on their way." Crow smirked.
"I'll crush them too." Batman growled as he clenched his fists.
"Hahaha! You really are foolish. Get him." Multiple women charged the Dark Knight.
Around 50 women using obvious Amazon fighting styles. Luckily sparring with Diana has taught him a thing or two about how to combat it.
He jumped into the crowd, landing punches and kicks all the while dodging all blows with max proficiency. He pulled out a batarang and threw it around the room. Cutting the ropes of Red Robin's hands. He was quick to join the fight after he freed Nightwing. The three made short work of the Amazons, bashing heads, and breaking limbs.
A shot was heard not stopping Batman or his wards, they were down to 25 amazons, with an unknown amount of the League still unaccounted for.
"I said. STOP!" Joker said as a dark red aura shot at the group sending them hurling backwards. The three were quick to roll over and back into fighting stances.
"Chill the hell out. I get it you're all mad at me." Joker said. As he walks over the downed bodies. The rest of the team follows them alongside Donna in her mask.
"Joker." Batman growled.
"Were you expecting someone else? " Joker snarked.
"Where did you get all these Amazons from? How did you manage to convince them of your cause." Batman growled.
"That was fast, barely fought them for a few minutes and already know their entire backstory?" Joker asked.
"Answer me!" Batman demanded.
"Nah. I didn't come here to surrender, I came because Noir said some group was attacking us, a bunch of ninja girls. Speaking of, can you please come out for discussion?" Joker asked.
The clanking of heels were heard approaching them. Batman turned to the sound and rage filled his body.
"Talia." Batman hissed.
"Good evening beloved. How is our cherished son holding?" Taila asked.
"Fine. Not like you cared after you abandoned him." Batman answered.
"He decided to side with you. Making him useless to me." Taila said, calmly.
"Some mother you are." Batman growled. Talia slapped him in response.
"He is your burden to bear not mine. But I'm not here to fight you or your sons." Talia said.
"What do you want with them?" Batman demanded.
"I offer opportunity. A chance to serve a great cause. A cause you have forsaken." Talia hissed.
"Please go on." Nightwing said.
"Hmph. No. Sisters dispose of them." Taila commanded and her lackeys appeared from out of the shadows attacked them.
While the Amazons stood at attention, and Joker stood there in question, Talia smirked as she sashayed over to him.
"My father wants a word. Will you comply?" Talia said.
"What's in it for me? And who will I be meeting this fine evening?" Joker asked.
"The Great Ra's al Ghul. He promises anything you wish for, fame, fortune, whatever it is you are after. All you have to do is follow his great lead." Talia said.
"I refuse." oker said simply.
"I beg your pardon?" Talia glared at the boy.
"Sounds sketchy, plus our whole deal is not being controlled by some ambitious dude that sounds obviously shady." Joker said as the team nodded.
"I don't think you understand your situation boy. Come with me now, and maybe I won't cut on slit your teammate's throat for such insolence." Talia hissed.
"Threats don't work on me or my team ma'am. We have everything to lose and nothing to gain from joining whatever you're selling." Joker said.
"Then your life is forfeit! Sisters, kill them! They mock the great Ra's al Ghul." Talia commanded.
The few assassins left from the fight between the three of the Bat-clan disperse and charge at the thieves. Batman glared, as Panther dodged them all making a beeline for Noir.
"Stop her. This is ending tonight." Batman demanded his two sons.
"Roger." Red Robin said as he quickly threw his staff towards her head aim to knock her off quickly. She dodged it shocked.
Batman made a rush towards Talia making her retreat from Joker focusing on him. He couldn't let them die.
"Yo, thanks Bats now I can beat these ninjas in peace and make my evil escape plan."Joker teased.
"Don't think I'll let you slip so easily. This is merely due to the fact I know without your army, Taila would kill you in seconds." Batman growled as he countered a lackey and knocked her out focusing back on Taila.
"Oh you honor me beloved. You also never change. Always barging on things that are none of your business." Talia pulled out her sword. Batman used his gauntlets to block all the swings, he used the spikes on them to catch the sword in place, he landed multiple hard blows on Talia making her loosen her grip on the sword. He used that opportunity to grab it and throw it across the room.
"*sigh* Shall we commence in our normal bout, beloved? Or will you finally take your place beside me and kill my father?" Talia asked as they traded blows.
"Someone needs to be a good example for Damian. And it sure as hell isn't with you and the League." Batman growled as they fought tooth and nail. Knowing each other's moves after years of fighting.
"I gave him to you to protect in my father's absence. To think he would fall for your deluded cause. A loss and a tragedy." Taila said as she pulled out small knives and tried to slash Batman.
"It's a tragedy he doesn't have a mother that supports him anymore. He misses you, but he's too cold to admit it." Batman said as he kicked a knife out of one hand and caught an attacking hand in another.
"And I miss the son I could be proud of. But that's what I get for trying to get a spawn from you." Talia hissed.
"That's what you get for drugging me into sex. Playing me for a fool. Never again. You're awfully talkative tonight. I ruin your plans again?" Batman asked.
"Why bother. They know who you are don't they? Or was that little show with the gala and Ryder just coincidence? I sincerely doubted it. Especially when I saw Jason's name scroll past on that list of theirs." Talia teased. Batman growled and put more effort into his battle.
"Don't mention his name." Batman gritted out.
"Shame our son has to meet the same fate as him. But that's what he gets for being a disgrace." Talia hissed. The two were focused on solely each other doing a dance of death with grudges that spanned years.
Joker heard all of this go down as he fought some assassins with ease. Figures a dude who acted like a playboy really did have women drama.
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"Hey! Don't you have better things to do?!" She glared at Red Robin.
"Can't have let you get out focus ma'am. It would be irresponsible of me." Red Robin said, smiling.
"Just let me heal her. Batman bruised her up so bad. Come on!" Panter yelled back.
"Don't worry. She'll live. Just like you." Red Robin got into a battle stance.
"Trying to sound cool huh? It won't work on me Tom!" Panther tried to sound threatening.
"It's Tim. At least try to listen to what Joker tells you." Red Robin rolled his eyes. He rolled to pick up his staff, spinning it as Panther threw a weak fireball at him, not really wanting to hurt him, but needed to get past him to heal her friend. She pulled her whip out and charged with multiple slashes
She really is nothing but a wannabe. Selina is much more skilled at this weapon. Tim thought he ran as he dodged her miffed nature, fireball after fireball as he tried to formulate a plan. The goal was to get close before she attacks, it's clear she's more ranged anyway.
"Just back off already. Lullaby!" The sleep spell was casted, the effects where immediate Tim's eyes were drooping, that wouldn't do. Luckily one of the good things with Damian's little outburst was the reveal of that spell, a quick shot in the neck with some of Batman's patented "Wake up" chems and he bounced back up with a heavy assault, slamming her down with his staff.
"Shit! I really don't want to hurt you. Please don't make me burn you." Panther begged.
Hesitation….Good.
He used his grapple hook to zip kick her square in the chest, sending her flying back into a wall and whine of pain from her followed.
"That hurt! Asshole! Fine! I won't kill you promise! But no more holding back." She said as the bruises and blood glowed away. Red Robin narrowed his eyes at that. An instant takedown was needed to truly bring her down. And now he could tell from the big flames engulfing her hands and wrists made her dangerous.
For now employ a Starfire like takedown, bob and weave the hands and return with as much force as possible. She can't fly so that's an advantage, no real martial arts either, easy.
"Dance for me Celestine!" A demon showed itself to Tim. A pink woman with aviators and two men chained to her hair. Odd. But the fire spells increase in power significantly. Tim cursed, he needed to end this fast. He blocked the blast with his bullet shield as it extended out of his staff, he walked through the fire as it blasted, pushing through gradually.
"*pant* TAKE THIS!" Panther seemed to concentrate for a moment. That hesitance would be her downfall. Red Robin slammed her with the shield, expert dueling out punches and kicks to her body. He tried to land blows on the demon but it was almost like it was a ghost, the demon flew around him at lighting speed following it's caster.
Panther smirked at that as she rolled to the side and unleashed hellfire upon her enemy.
Red Robin seethed in pain as he took the damage. A clever trick but one he wouldn't fall for again, he patted down the flames on his suit and charged her not wanting to waste anymore time. Queen needed to be next as she was the only other healer they knew of. Take them both down and they're beaten for good.
"THAT ALL YOU GOT?!" Red Robin challenged. Panther panicked and unleashed her semi-auto on him, her accuracy was very lacking, Red Robin dodged the shots as he jumped and prepared his finishing blow.
He was shot back by a freezing blast he rolled as he glared at the attacker.
"Are you alright Panther?" Fox asked as he pointed an assault rifle at Red Robin. Panther was quick to heal herself and bounce back, but it was clear she was tired.
"Yeah...thanks...LET'S FINISH THIS ASSHOLE OFF!" Panther yelled as the two of them charged.
Red Robin sighed as he two began to charge with vigor.
Time to assess Fox too I guess.
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Nightwing took down multiple amazons and assassins with ease, Talia was busy trying to take out Batman and spitting out their weird will the won't they banter. While the rest of the Phantom Thieves Red Robin wasn't trained on were fighting off the assassins. A motorcycle charged through the group, Queen glaring them down for daring to try and kill her troops. Nightwing merely rolled, planting a line of explosive gel on her bike, she really needed to be more focused.
"THIS IS OVER! SURRENDER NOW!" She screamed at the group.
"I don't think they'll listen, Queen. Save your breath." Nightwing said.
"So I should just let them kill each other? Yeah right. Get out of my way so I can finish this!" She demanded.
"How about instead I take you down so you can't heal them awake. Love the bike by the way, Batman would be proud of it were you on our side." Nightwing jokes.
"Like I want to be a part of his cult." Queen scoffed.
"And what do you call your little get together?" Nightwing asked, hearing the Amazons cry out in the name of their god, Athena.
That's...eh...point taken. I'm still not joining you. I owe Joker too much, and truly believe his cause." Queen said.
"Oh, I wasn't offering just making conversation." Nightwing said as he pressed the detonator.
"AHH!" Queen screamed as she slammed against the wall, leaving her bike still standing.
"*whistles* Still purring? What's this thing made of?" Nightwing asked.
"I never asked myself. She's very soft spoken. Agnes come to me!" Queen roared. Agnes trying to run Nightwing over, he flipped over the motorcycle as it did a donut trying to take him down. Queen jumped back on as she popped a wheelie revving up the bike's engine, her free fist glowed a bright blue.
"Showoff." Nightwing teased.
"Come on! Come at me." Queen challenged.
Nightwing kept his distance as he tried to think, one of her spells made you fight like a novice when spoken, so it stands to possibility that shtting her mouth will give him more of an advantage. Or he could goad her...that could work too.
"Gonna just cast a spell on me weaker than aren't you? It's sad that you rely on such dirty tactics. Such a waste on inexperienced fighters." Nightwing said.
"Is that a challenge or are you just trying to rile me up? Either won't work." Queen hissed.
Nightwing rushed in response, charging his escrima sticks to full charge, the electricity running through his entire suit, he had to get a hit in before she spoke the spell.
"CHECK- BZZZT" Queen was shocked not by Nightwing but by Batman across the way, still fighting Talia but managing to pull out an electric charge on Queen, recognizing her threat.
"I had her." Nightwing groaned. He quickly knocked her out and went to help take down Talia.
"No more risks." Batman said as he blocked another one of Talia's blows.
"Fine. Who's left?" Nightwing asked, as he managed to taze Talia.
"That makes two Phantom Thieves down. Help Tim finish off Panther, no more healing." Batman said as he broke Talia's arm as she screamed in pain, he knocked her out and tied her down for good measure. While not a priority tonight, she could give a lead to Ra's hideout.
"Roger. Who are you taking down next?" Nightwing asked as he fought out more Amazons and assassins.
"Any in my line of sight." Batman growled.
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"MISTRESS IS DOWN RETREAT!" An assassin cried. Smoke bombs were thrown all around.
"You will not get away." Batman said as the Batmoblie did as blind fire all around trying to get all of them. He knocked out multiple assassins, as he stood guard of Talia, she could not get away.
"Quick Joker while they're busy let's get out of here!" White yelled.
"No. I'm not leaving soldiers behind. I have a plan." Joker said.
"Losses are unavoidable. It's part of life, my soldiers know this." Antiope said.
"Not a single soldier left. Skull, let's see how that car does against your hammer." Joker said.
"Hell yeah." Skull rushed for the Batmobile.
"Crow, White, Violet guard me. I need to make a quick call." Joker said.
"What are you going to do?" White asked.
Donna knew what he was going to do. She wondered why he didn't do it earlier. It was time to even the odds.
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Red Robin was doing fine against the two of them, Fox was very quick and agile while it was clear Panther's exhaustion was getting to her. She was more puffing out smoke than fire, relying more on her weapon's than magic.
"Thanks for the assist Fox! I'm running low." Panther admitted.
"Perhaps the bird must be punished for his insolence." Fox said as he dodged and parried the staff blows from Red Robin.
"Please. Both of you have no real fighting skills, I've seen kids half your age fight better." Red Robin said truthfully.
"YOU STAND BEFORE OUR PRINCESS!" Fox yelled. Suddenly reality warped around Red Robin.
"The hell?" Red Robin asked, as he looked around at the japanese setting. Paper slides were whipped up by Panther distracting him, he was quick to knock most all of them away but not all.
Fox seemingly out of nowhere, slashed him critically.
"AHH!" Red Robin screamed.
"FINISH HIM!" Pather yelled.
"Nope." Nightwing slid under Fox and delivered a hard blow to the face. Fox fell backwards and was slammed down by two charged escrima sticks tasing him harshly. Before he could recover Nightwing did a knockout blow to the head. Fox was down.
"FOX NO!" Panther yelled out. Red Robin did a takedown, hitting Panther with his staff, rendering her unconscious.
"The fuck was that? You were just standing around looking like an idiot." Nightwing scolded.
"They...got into my head somehow, illusion magic I think." Red Robin clutched his stomach in pain.
"Easy. Stay there this is pretty much over anyway." Nightwing said.
"Idiot, don't underestimate them." Red Robin hissed in pain.
"Four are down, and these Amazons are running low on numbers." Nightwing said.
Just then he saw Skull slam into the Batmobile, T-boning it and flipping it onto its side.
"DEPLOYING ELECTRIC CHARGE!" The Batcomputer rang, the blast took out the rest of the Amazons trying to take it down. But Skull was still standing and hammering it into scrap as it thrusted all over the room trying to get away from him.
"Jesus. He's next." Nightwing rushed over to Skull.
"GET BACK HERE YA FRICKIN' SCRAP PILE!" Skull roared as Nightwing chased after him.
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Batman was losing his patience. He took out dozens upon dozens of women, and the piles were adding up against Joker and Talia. The Assassins were basically nonexistent, the Amazons with them, Talia wasn't getting out of this easily.
"Come on. You can do better than that." Batman decided to play mind games against both of the proud teams finishing off the remainder with ease. He cracked his knuckles as he began walking towards Joker, glaring the boy down. Putting the fear of god into the leader.
"Joker..now might be a good time for that plan of yours." White pressed.
"Are you ready Oracle?" he asked on the phone.
Oracle stroked Mona in the cafe as she answered.
"Yep...just need a few minutes." Oracle said.
"HOLD ON JOKER!" Mona yelled through the phone.
"Stall." Joker said simply.
"*Sigh* I was afraid you'd say that." White said as she began to charge but was halted by Joker as he walked towards Batman unwavering.
"This is over." Batman growled.
"As you keep saying." Joker pulled out his knife and the two fools walked in circles sizing each other up.
"Whatever you're planning won't work. Stop this now." Batman demanded.
"You're really bad at bluffing Bruce. I still have so much to give in terms of ass kicking, but I gotta take my troops into account." Joker said playing with his knife.
"Whatever it is. It will end once I take you out." Batman rushed Joker and the boy dodged, barely missing the punch, Batman was quick to follow up with a fury of punches and kicks forcing Joker to backflip away.
"A taste of power for a friend. Come Ares!" Joker yelled.
Donna stood in shock as the god of war appeared, his cruel stare sending shivers down her spine. How did Akira manage to conquer what the Amazons never could.
"Dark Knight. It has been too long. How is Diana doing?" the god cackles evilly.
"What are you? How can you conquer so much in so little time?" Batman asked.
"Part of the charm I guess. Ares...break him." Joker said evilly. The aura of the god rubbing off on him like all his personas do.
"AHHH!" Batman charged up his electric gauntlets and rushed the god of war. It will be hard to take him down, but he knows all of his moves from years of his plotting.
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Nightwing saw Ares arrive and cursed Skull was still wrecking the car. He knew the battle was suddenly shifting in Joker's favor. No...he pressed the emergency Titans button, Bruce would be pissed but he saw no other option.
For now though Skull.
"YO BLONDIE! YO MAMA SO UGLY EVEN HATTER WOULDN'T WANT HER!" Nightwing yelled.
"WHAT WAS THAT?!" Skull roared at him, lighting crackling even more powerfully, as he glared down at the punk who dared diss his late mother.
"Works every time. Now on the matter of surviving." Nightwing sweated as Skull slammed down his hammer on the hood of the car completely destroying the Batmobile in his rage.
"Ohhhhh…. You're going fricken' down man." Skull smirked evilly.
All across town the Titan comm rang, even Raven's and Donna's. Good thing Donna left hers at the church.
Everyone was momentarily shocked but shook it off as they all made their way to the sewers, Dick figured eight against eleven would be a much easier battle.
Red Robin chuckled as he looked from his kneeling position, clutching his wound as he tied up all the people he could. Perhaps the cycle would end
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AN: FINALLY! I'm back. Jeez dude it felt like years didn't it. Sorry bout the cliffhanger but this chapter went waaaaaay longer than it was planned to. I didn't want to make this a two parter but it looks like imma have to.
Hope you guys didn't mind me tweeking Selina backstory lightly. The wiki didn't even give the ring leader a name and I saw an opportunity. Irma Lancastor was totally on the fly but I liked what she represents in Selina. A similar vein in how Ann was inspired by an anime villain but more real ya know.
I just realized I Uncle Ben'd her. Welp….I still think it works well
Before Ya'll ask, no Irma is not the voice annoying Selina's mind. That will be revealed in other will seed.
Next chapter will be soonish. It feels nice to be back though.
Stay tuned~
