Title: Battered Heart
author: Cindy Ryan
notes and summary:see part one
Bruce Wayne had seen many travel ads over the years depicting one place or another as paradise. None could hold a candle to this place. The billionaire stepped out of the plane and onto the sand and looked at the clear water and the white sand. The high cliffs added another appeal to the island. During the flight Bruce had read the background information Clark had brought back on the Amazon home. He knew it was created by Zeus as well as the Amazons themselves. Bruce wasn't sure he believed in the Greek Gods but considering what he'd seen Diana do over the course of their friendship Bruce knew she was extraordinary. Hoofbeats drew Batman's attention and he looked to the right and saw eight women on horseback coming towards them.
"Some how I don't think they're the welcome wagon."Barry commented warily.
"We brought Diana home."Victor pointed out. "We'll be fine."
Bruce saw Arthur take a defensive stance out of the corner of his eye. Aquaman didn't
reveal a weapon, but with his size he didn't have to. Batman placed a calming hand towards Curry.
"Just being practical."Aquaman muttered. "We did pierce their shield."
"And the island is supposed to be hidden from mortals."Clark pointed out from Bruce's left.
"Pillars of optimism you two are."Bruce grumbled.
The Amazons came to a stop a few feet from the plane. Bows and arrows were drawn and armed and swords drawn.
"I am Queen Hippolyta of the Amazons."A middle aged blonde woman proclaimed. "How did you find this place? Why are you here?"
Movement from behind Bruce drew his attention. He turned and saw Diana start down the plane's ramp followed closely by Alfred. She looked pale and unsteady and Bruce was grateful Alfred was with her.
"Diana."The Queen said. "I am happy to see you my child, but you look unwell."
"She is."Curry responded as he walked over to Diana and led her down to stand in front of the Amazons. "We brought her home hoping you could help. She was injured in battle."
"In battle with Steppenwolf."Clark clarified as he moved forward. "Their powers collided and merged."
"She has no memory."Bruce added.
Hippolyta dismounted and sheaved her sword. She cautiously stepped towards Diana extending her arms.
"Diana, I am your mother."Hippolyta explained. "This is your home. The island is called Themyscira."
Bruce saw Diana look at her mother take a few steps towards her and then stop. She looked at her surroundings and frowned. Bruce walked quickly towards his friend. He placed an arm around her shoulders and was relieved to feel her relax.
"I'm sorry I do not remember."Diana stated sadly. "I wish I did."
"You will in time." Hippolyta promised. "Come."
When Diana hesitated Bruce gripped her shoulders more tightly. He smiled at her.
"It'll be alright, Diana."Bruce commented. "You're home. Let them help you."
Diana's head was spinning and starting to pound again. She looked from Bruce to the women before her. She felt a flash of familiarity but nothing solid. Nothing she could count on. Glancing at the man besides her once more Diana saw the compassion and affection in his gaze. She didn't know why but she knew he had her best interest at heart. That everything he and the others had done was for her. Was to help her. To aid her in gaining her strength in memory back.
"Alright."Diana confirmed with a nod.a
With Bruce's aid Diana walked down the plane's ramp and stepped onto the soil of her homeland. She sent off a silent prayer that her mother was right that she would regain her memory. That by being here she'd regain the spirit and strength that made her who she was.
Later that night Bruce was in the main room of the house that had been given to them to use. There were six bedrooms and a small kitchen. It was two stories and made of a hard clay substance. The front door was open to allow the ocean breeze to cool the interior. Footsteps drew Bruce's attention and he looked up seeing Queen Hippolyta entered the room.
"Your highness."Ben greeted as he stood. "How is Diana?"
"Resting." Hippolyta reported with a smile. "I wanted to thank you for bringing my daughter home."
"She's our friend."Bruce replied with a nod. "We just want her to get better."
"Our healers will continue their exam and treatment in the morning." Hippolyta continued quietly. "I suggest you get some rest as well."
Bruce nodded and the Queen of the Amazons left. He sank back into the chair he'd been sitting on and rubbed a hand over the back of his neck. They'd gotten over the hardest part; getting Diana home. Now he had to trust the Amazons and hope that they'd made the right move. That this had all been worth it. All Bruce wanted right now was for Diana to get better and return to the strong amazing woman she was. The woman that Bruce was quickly realizing had captured his heart.