Epilogue: At the Beginning
The cool evening breeze rushed past my face as I moved across the unfamiliar rooftop. The lights and sounds of New York filled the air, making it seem as if the city was alive. It wasn't often that I was outside of Gotham, so I decided to take a break and let it all sink in.
The last time I visited New York was when I had to talk to The Web. And man, he was a piece of work. He just seemed like a stuck up jerk that thought he knew everything. Unfortunately, Babs asked me to make a house call and check up on him.
"Geez, why couldn't we just call him to see how he's been doing?" I sighed. "I didn't have to make the trip."
"Maybe it's because you need some time away from Gotham?" Wendy answered across the comm. "You have been working pretty hard the last couple of days."
"We've just been cleaning up all that mess with the gangs. I guess without Spoiler, there wasn't much leadership left."
"At least everything's back to normal," Wendy reassured. "I mean, as normal as Gotham can be."
"You're telling me," I replied. "It pissed me off that the gangs still had the freeze gun and that flamethrower. It took a while before we tracked those things down."
Gotham's been a bit calmer since we cleared out the gangs that Jason and Scarlet brought into the city. With their leaders gone and their weapon lines cut, we made easy work on dealing with the thugs and mercs that made camp in Gotham. The fact that our usual bad guys decided to keep a low profile was just an added bonus. I was just happy nothing too serious has come up.
"Oh, by the way Steph," Wendy started. "Just received an update from the Batman Inc. operatives from Japan and Africa. No word on the Red Hood."
"Thanks, Proxy," I sighed, taking a break on a rooftop. "I should have known it would be tough to find him."
"What ever happened to the witch kid? I thought he was going to help."
"He said he would. But I'm not entirely sure how long this magic thing takes." When Klarion left my house, he told me that he'd be back when he found Jason. He grabbed the vest and laser gun and teleported to who knows where. That was about a week ago.
It didn't take long until I made it to The Web's hideout. Luckily Babs called ahead, so I didn't have any problems with the security. I could hear the rapid clicking of a keyboard as I entered the hideout.
"Pretty nice setup they've got going here," Wendy commented, noticing the computers and the tech lying around.
"Nothing beats Firewall though," I quipped.
Following the light tapping, I found Kitcat working on something at the computer. This was the first time meeting her and I wanted to make a good first impression. From what Babs told me about her, she definitely knows her stuff. Deciding against the usual bat-scare technique, I walked over to the computer and coughed lightly.
Kitcat looked over and smiled. "Hey Batgirl, Oracle mentioned that you'd be popping by. I'm Kitcat."
"Nice to meet you," I replied. I looked over onto the computer, noticing the different video feeds and summon requests that continuously popped up onto the screen. "Must be rough, working for The Web."
Kitcat laughed, "It's not so bad. The pay's great and there's always a chance for me to try out my inventions. He's not that bad a guy either."
"I'm glad, seems like he's change a little since I last saw him."
"Just a tad," Kitcat answered, while gesturing with her index finger and thumb. "Speaking of the boss man, he actually stepped out about two hours ago, something about a summons in Chinatown. Not entirely sure when he'll be back."
"Ask and you shall receive!" a voice echoed.
Kitcat and I both turned to the entrance. The Web walked in with a tray of takeout in his hands and a plastic bag dangling from his wrist.
"Man, can't beat this chicken fried rice," Web said as he took a whiff of the food. Using a plastic spoon he scooped some of the rice into his mouth, sighing as he chewed. "So, what's up Batgirl?"
I took a few steps over to him, locking eyes as I explained, "I'm just here to check on you and to make sure you're putting the tech Oracle gave you to good use."
Placing the tray down, Web walked over to join Kitcat. He handed her the bag and a smile crept onto her face. Taking out a pair of chopsticks, Kitcat began to chow down, voicing thanks between mouthfuls.
The Web waved a hand and glanced over to the screen, "As you can see, it's been working wonderfully. Kitcat's been a real help around here too."
I nodded and asked the other questions Babs had on her list. What made us worried in the beginning was that this guy thought being a hero was like a business. Not sure what happened, but it seemed like his mentality changed, if only a little.
"Alright, that should be everything," I said as he finished answering the last question.
"Great," Web nodded. "Now, can I interest you in some dinner?"
"No thanks, I wanna get back to Gotham as soon as possible. Nice meeting you Kitcat!"
"Bye!" I heard her call back. "Geez, why can't you be cool like the guys at Batman Inc.?"
"What! I had the idea first!"
Maybe next time I can convince Bruce to let me borrow the Batwing when I have to go out of town. Finding parking is such a pain.
"See that wasn't so bad," Wendy chuckled.
"Yeah, Kitcat seems to balance him out," I answered as I stretched. "So Proxy, where's my ride?"
"I got a call while you were talking in there. Seems like you're flying in style tonight," Proxy chuckled. "Get to the roof and wait a couple seconds."
I shrugged and made my way to the rooftop. I was about to question Wendy when I saw a flash of red and blue coming toward me. In an instant, I was staring at the S shield and the grinning blonde that wore it.
"Hey there, miss me?" Kara said with a wave. Her hair danced in the wind as she landed and joined me on the rooftop.
"Definitely," I smiled, bringing her into a hug. "This is your definition of style?"
"Not everyday you get to fly with one of the Supers," Wendy laughed. "Don't worry, I'll get the Compact home safe and sound."
I shook my head. "So, what do I owe the pleasure?"
"What, I can't just drop by unannounced? You make it sound like you don't wanna fly home," Kara pouted.
The way she scrunched her nose and tried to look mad was just too cute. Throwing my hands up in defeat, I laughed. "Oh no, this is perfect. Why spend hours driving in traffic when I can fly home in no time. Plus, why wouldn't I want to spend time with the bestest person ever?"
"That's what I wanna hear!"
She pulled me close and put her arm under my legs, carrying me princess style. I instinctively wrapped my arms around her neck, leaning my head against Kara's shoulder as she slowly took off. After a few moments Kara accelerated, putting more distance between New York and us.
As we flew, my mind wandered. Thoughts of the last couple of months began to pop into my head. I tried to shake them off, not wanting to think about the past. I tried to think of happy thoughts and before I knew it, I started to chuckle. Of course, Kara heard me.
"What's so funny?"
"Oh, nothing," I feigned, trying not to make eye contact.
"C'mon, tell me or I'll drop you." Kara sounded like she was joking, but I could feel her hold on my body loosen.
"You wouldn't dare!" I glared at Kara, but I definitely didn't have all my Bat intimidation powers. Especially when those powers probably wouldn't work on her anyways. I sighed and fessed up. "Fine. I was just thinking, couldn't you imagine the first time Batman had to fly with Superman? I can see it now, Batman in Superman's arms just like a princess."
I heard Wendy burst into laughter through the comm and Kara quickly joined in. My hold around Kara's neck tightened, worried that she really might drop me while she was laughing.
I really hope that this never comes up at a Bat family meeting.
"Speaking of the Bat boys," Kara started, coming down from the giggles. "How're things with our favorite Boyfriend Wonder?"
Somehow, I knew she'd bring him up.
"We've been okay," I answered. "It was much worse in the beginning. The incident with Jason really affected him. It affected all of us."
"So that means he forgave you?"
"Well, yes and no," I exhaled. "He understands why I did what I did, but he said it didn't make it any easier."
"Didn't he do something similar to you?" Kara asked. "He was all over that Lynx chick before you guys got back together."
I grimaced at the memory. "Yeah, but two wrongs don't make a right, ya know?"
Kara nodded and dropped the matter. It felt great, flying in the sky without a care in the world. Before long, we were back in Gotham and made it to Firewall. When we got to the lower level, I could hear Wendy talking to someone as we exited the elevator.
"Wendy, I'm home!" I announced, peeling back my cowl.
"Hey, welcome back," Wendy answered.
"tt. Took you long enough," her companion added.
"Nice to see you too, Robin," Kara smiled.
"Erm, hello Supergirl," Robin mumbled, a hint of red rushing to his cheeks. He quickly turned away to face the computer screen, staring at the surveillance feed.
I raised an eyebrow and whispered to Kara, "No insult, and no 'blasted alien'? What's going on?"
Kara replied, "How should I know? You're the one he hangs out with."
"What are you doing here, Damian?" I asked. Though his back was to us, I could hear him stumbling over his words.
BEEP! BEEP! BEEP!
At that moment, the alarms in Firewall started to go off. Red lights blared as the entire compound went into lockdown. We all went on alert, our eyes trained on the different entrances into the room.
"Wendy, what's going on?" I yelled over the blaring sirens.
"We've got a visitor!" Wendy answered. Clicking away at the computer, she checked the security footage from every camera we had. "Which should be impossible. I haven't seen anyone near the place in the last half hour."
Pulling my cowl back onto my face, I grabbed some batarangs from the equipment table while Damian unsheathed his sword. Kara scanned the room with her x-ray vision, but she couldn't see our intruder.
"Maybe there's a bug in the system," Kara suggested.
"Can't be," Wendy countered. "We've got the best security system. We're as secure as the Batcave."
"Well that's a relief," Kara chuckled.
"Guys, can we focus! Let's get this intruder!"
"Intruder! Where?" the intruder asked.
The alarms all stopped as the four of us looked over to find Klarion wearing the laser tag vest, holding the gun up. He was searching for our "intruder," pointing the gun in every direction. Teekl joined him in his investigation, leaning from Klarion's shoulder and looking around the room.
"Klarion! What are you doing here?" I screamed, throwing my hands up. I would have laughed if I weren't so upset. He looked ridiculous, with the vest on and the gun in his hand.
"I told you, I would be back when I found Jason," Klarion answered, holstering the gun. Teekl jumped from his shoulder and onto mine. The cat nuzzled into my face and purred.
"How'd you get into Firewall?" Wendy asked, rolling over to us.
"Magic, I thought it was obvious." Klarion then moved to take off the vest and handed it to me.
Taking it back, I asked, "When did you find Jason?"
"Oh, I found him a few days ago."
"Then why am I just seeing you now!"
"Calm down. I was just spending some time playing with this. Did you know how fun laser tag is?"
I could feel the start of a headache. "Never mind, where is he?"
The Witch Boy took Teekl back into his arms. "The last time I sensed him, he was in Europe. France, most likely."
Thoughts ran through my mind. "Damian, we have an operative in France right?"
Nodding, Damian answered, "Nightrunner."
"Let's give him a call," I suggested, walking over to the computer with Wendy. I quickly turned back to Klarion, "Thanks for your help."
"If you really want to thank me, let me borrow that vest again!" Klarion smiled, giving me a thumbs up. Before I could answer, Klarion vanished.
"Sure, it's a deal," I whispered.
We weren't able to get a hold of Nightrunner, but Wendy said she'd keep trying. On the other hand, Damian kept pestering me on leaving. Every other minute he would look at the clock and tell me we had to go.
"What's the big rush?" I asked.
"Listen, Brown," Damian muttered. "We have to be going. You are needed at the Manor."
"Aww, look at him trying to be so demanding," Kara chuckled, tousling his hair.
Damian shot her a look that would have been scary if his face wasn't beet red. Knocking away Kara's hand, Damian huffed as he stormed off toward the garage.
"Geez, wait up!" I called. "Wendy, can I leave this to you?"
"Course, I'll let you know when I get through."
I looked over to Kara and asked, "Wanna come?"
Shaking her head, "No thanks, I'll visit some other time."
I turned to run after Damian. Before leaving earshot I could have sworn I heard Kara whisper, "I thought they'd never leave."
"I know, right?" Wendy answered. "She's gunna be late."
The whole ride to the Cave was silent, which was a first for Damian. He insisted on us taking his motorcycle instead of the Compact, since it was quicker. With Damian completely focused on the road, I felt a little ignored. I decided to lighten the mood with some small talk.
"So, seems like you couldn't keep your eyes off of Kara tonight," I joked. I felt Damian's muscles tense.
"I have no idea what you're talking about," Damain mumbled as he sped up.
How cute, he's crushing hard.
Damian coughed, breaking my train of thought. He had to raise his voice in order to overcome the roar of his motorcycle. "It seems Todd is alive."
"Yeah, we need to find him."
"Will you tell Drake this time? Or will this be another secret you keep from him?"
"I don't wanna make the same mistake twice," I answered. "It'll be difficult to keep this a secret, especially since we're involving other members of Batman Incorporated."
With that, Damian dropped the conversation. It didn't take long for us to make it to the Cave where Alfred was waiting for us.
"Welcome home, Master Damian, Miss Stephanie," Alfred greeted.
"Hi Alfred," I smiled back. "Where is everyone?"
"Pennyworth," Damian grumbled, walking past Alfred and leaving the Cave.
"I believe Master Dick is out on patrol with Miss Cassandra and Master Bruce is visiting the Watchtower."
"And Tim?"
"Master Tim asked me to inform you that he will be late in returning from Titans Tower and if you wouldn't mind waiting for him."
"Oh, sure," I nodded, "I guess I should get changed."
"If you wish to freshen up, I've prepared fresh towels," Alfred suggested, taking the laser tag vest from me.
Nodding, I made my way to the bathroom, taking off my Batsuit along the way. A shower was definitely what I needed after tonight's activities. For the first time in a while, my mind was clear. It was as if several of my questions were answered tonight.
The minutes passed quickly as the warm water soothed my aching muscles. Once I finished up, I looked myself over in the mirror and noticed the scar on my shoulder. It reminded me of the first time I met Jason, and how this whole thing started. Wiping away the remains of the steam on the mirror, I quickly got changed and left to wait in the living room.
Coming down the stairs, I was greeted by a delightful aroma. It seemed like Alfred was cooking up something delicious. I followed my nose, making my way to the dining room. I was half expecting to find Damian waiting at the table.
The table was filled with assorted dishes that looked like it should have taken hours to cook. There were two candles in the center of the table and two places set across from each other. Extravagant was the only way to describe it. Still awestruck by the spread, I barely noticed Alfred enter the room with a pitcher of water.
"Alfred," I started. "What's all this for?"
"Dinner, Miss Stephanie," Alfred answered as he poured two glasses with the water, placing the pitcher back onto the table.
"I mean, what's the occasion? Did I forget someone's birthday?"
Alfred chuckled as he shook his head. Instead of answering, he simply nodded behind me before walking back to the kitchen. I stood there confused for a few seconds before I noticed the pitter-patter of someone walking towards the dining room.
Turning around, I locked eyes with Tim's shining blue orbs, the glint in his eyes mesmerizing. The look he gave me made me feel as if I was the only person in the world. It was like the last few months never happened. When I broke eye contact I finally noticed what Tim was wearing.
Tim looked like he was ready for a meeting at Wayne Enterprises. His black suit was flawless and his hair was combed to perfection. I had to shake my head to stop myself from staring too long.
"Hi," he whispered.
"Hey," I answered, looking away. "So, I thought you were with the Titans."
A smile danced onto his lips as he closed the distance between us, the faint smell of his cologne filled the air. Inches from each other, Tim took my hand in his led me over to the table.
"Yeah, I asked Alfred to tell you that," Tim laughed. He pulled out my seat and waited for me to sit. "Setting this all up takes some time."
"And what is 'all this' anyway?"
"Dinner, duh." Taking a seat across from me, Tim placed his napkin on his lap.
"What's the occasion? Because you're really making me feel underdressed." I asked, raising an eyebrow and following suit.
I started to play with my shirtsleeve as Tim served me some chicken. "No occasion. Besides, you just came in from patrol right? I'm sure you'd rather wear a shirt and jeans than a dress right now."
Answering with a nod, my mouth watered at the food. Taking my fork, I stabbed at some veggies and brought them up to my mouth. For a while, the only sound in the dining room was silverware against our plates. When I finished up, I wiped my lips and placed my napkin on the table.
I didn't realize I was so hungry. Alfred really outdid himself tonight.
"Steph," Tim started, placing his own napkin on the table. "There's something we need to talk about."
"A-about what?" I asked, my heart fluttering as worry crept over me. The look Tim gave me was so intense and his face didn't give me any hints to what he was planning. Tim got up and took the seat next to me, his hand finding mine.
"Us," Tim answered. His eyes were on mine, never looking away. "I know that the past few months have been crazy, but everything we've been through just reminded me how much you mean to me."
I was about to respond when I saw Tim move from his chair. Releasing my hand, Tim got on one knee and reached into his coat pocket. My vision blurred as tears began to form. In front of me was a black velvet box.
"Stephanie Brown, I love you. When I'm with you, there are times that my heart feels like it will actually burst out of my chest and I can't help but be happy. You're a ray of sunshine in my darkest days. You've helped me stay true to myself, no matter how many times I've fallen off of the right path. Regardless of what happens, know that you can always count on me like I count on you," Tim recited. Opening the box, he revealed a silver banded diamond engagement ring, the stones glittering in the light. "Will you marry me?"
I couldn't stop my tears from flowing. It was as if a years worth of emotions welled up and demanded to be released. However seeing Tim on his knee, baring his feelings to me, I had only one response.
"Yes."