AN: Let's just pretend I'm on time if we ignore the fact that I missed last Sunday. In my defense, I'm writing my final thesis for university at the moment and it's been a lot of work.
So, I'm proud that I'm getting out this absolute beast of a chapter – in content and length. This chapter is not joking around.
Warnings for: Discussions of grooming and very icky relationships (it's brief and nothing of that sort actually happens). I'm not even warning for violence. That is implied with this story being written by me. *cackles in evil author*
It's summit-time!
Ruby Warrior Girl 730: Interesting theory! It very well could have been! I didn't plan for the young Talon to be Tim. At the moment I don't have anything planned with Tim because I'm already juggling so many storylines and I want to do them all justice. I'm not saying Tim will *never* appear in this verse but if he ever does, it will take a while.
22. Summit
Nightwing sat in a private jet together with Slade and Luthor. They were on their way to the summit or as Nightwing thought of it: The lion's den. He was glad that his cover didn't have to react much. Instead, he could just sit in his seat with a blank face while Slade and Luthor made tense conversation.
The fake-pleasantries were oppressive and Nightwing fought against the urge to drive his claws into his palms or to bite his lip bloody again. At least, he didn't have a mental breakdown like the last time so that was what you could call progress.
Nightwing ran through the plan again. Focusing on the steps he needed to go through one by one as Artemis had taught him. Artemis who was- No. Don't think about Artemis. Focus on the plan.
The whole Light would be at this summit. They would scrutinize him closely in his fight with Slade and they had to make it look convincing. To that end, Slade wore multiple blood packs under his costume. And Nightwing had multiple capsules containing the substance that he would use to make Slade's heart slow down temporarily. Too slow to detect with the human eye or touch.
Batman was tipped off. He would monitor Nightwing's movements through the nano-tracker Slade had implanted in him. Batman would arrange it so that the heroes would burst in just after Nightwing had fake-killed Slade. The distraction would allow Batman to take Slade's body and revive him before it was too late.
Slade's heart could slow down for a bit longer than a normal human's due to his healing factor, but it was still a matter of trust. Slade could still die if he didn't get the adrenaline in due time. Nothing could go wrong today.
And if everything went right, Nightwing would be the enforcer of the Light tonight. The thought made his claws twitch towards his palms. All his attempts at redemption and he would become one of the League's biggest enemies.
It was surreal. Nightwing was a Talon, a sidekick – if you were generous. Not someone with a position like this.
He'd spent most of his life being completely expendable. Even in the League he had been someone who followed orders – not even as a full team member but as a monster to contain.
The thought still stung. Even if they uncovered this ruse, Nightwing would never be able to go back to the League. They wouldn't want him after he had deceived them for months and Nightwing… would he even want to go back? But what other options were there apart from the League? There was nowhere else for someone who wanted to do good to turn to.
It made something uncomfortable stir within him. Enforcer sounded far too much like Head-Talon. Oh God. Nightwing froze. Was he becoming like Cobb? He had put the Titans under control after all. Something a Head-Talon would do.
Nightwing could see Cobb in front of his inner eye. Taunting him for attempting to take control of anything. Calling him presumptuous for thinking that he could rise up to such a position.
Nightwing's claws dug into his glove. He could feel himself losing it. Luthor threw a side eye at Nightwing. Nightwing needed to reign himself in before he screwed up this mission-
"Talon", Slade sounded dismissive, "Go get me a drink."
Nightwing had to keep himself from jumping out of a seat. Instead, he said a quiet: "Yes, handler", and stood up.
Nightwing went to the cart with refreshments and took a bottle, grateful for Slade's quick thinking. He used his claws to open the lid. The mundane task gave him a moment to center himself. He could do this. Slade and Nightwing had done this before. They could do it again.
And Nightwing wasn't alone in this. Slade would look out for him just like he had done now. They were partners – at least for now.
"You could have asked one of my servants", Luthor said.
Indeed, Luthor had half a dozen servants on this private jet. One of them was a stoic Mercy Graves who stood near the exit and was read to jump into action at any moment. The staff fulfilled his every whim. Only the best for Lex Luthor. Luthor wouldn't have been out of place in the Court at all no matter what he told himself.
Slade shrugged: "I like ordering him around."
Nightwing put down the bottle in front of Slade. Slade didn't acknowledge it. Nightwing sat down again.
"I wonder what your relationship to this Talon is", Luthor narrowed his eyes, "Rumor is you like them young, Deathstroke."
Nightwing froze. He was sure that his face had slipped for just a moment. He hoped Luthor hadn't noticed. Nightwing felt a growing urge to jump out of this plane. He had endured a lot on this mission, but this was just humiliating. Was this what people were thinking?
Nightwing needed emotional reparation after all of this was over. He would cuddle up to Wally for a week and stay there.
Slade said in a deadpan way: "Not that young. I found him on the streets as a teenager."
Luthor didn't look convinced. Nightwing wasn't surprised. The businessman believed after all that Slade had ordered Nightwing to sleep with Kid Flash. From that assumption, it wasn't farfetched that- No. Don't go there.
"So, you would say the Talon is loyal to you over everyone else?", Luthor said.
"I groomed him to be loyal to me over everyone else", Slade looked smug, "My orders are this thing's only purpose."
Slade put his hand on the back of Nightwing's neck. He squeezed but not enough to make it painful. Nightwing's face stayed blank. This was acting. Just a role. Nothing else.
"We'll see", Luthor said.
"What are you implying, Luthor?"
Nightwing's desire to jump out of this plane grew. Great. He had just become the object of a pissing contest between Deathstroke and Lex Luthor. And it wasn't even the first time this had happened. But he had to play along – which meant acting like he was nothing.
He reminded himself of the benefits for the mission that this would bring. If Luthor believed that Slade was… taking advantage of Nightwing,then it would make Nightwing seem even more pathetic in Luthor's eyes. Exactly what Nightwing needed. This was good for the mission. Nightwing just needed his sanity to catch up.
He was relieved when the pilot announced that they were about to land on the speaker. A small, rocky island came into view. Somewhere in the Indian Ocean.
Luthor turned to one of his many employees: "The helicopter is ready in case we need to make a quick escape?"
"Of course, Mr. Luthor. I have word from the pilot that he is circling close by", the employee answered.
"Perfect", Luthor said, "You have to expect that someone tipped off the League – these days."
Nightwing froze. This was bad. Luthor sounded like he knew about a mole. The plane landed on a short runway near the edge of the island.
Luthor couldn't know about Nightwing, could he? Nightwing bit his lip, focusing on the mission. It had no use. Whether Luthor knew or not – Nightwing was stuck here now. He would be killed if Luthor identified him as a mole.
An outcome that Nightwing didn't welcome but knew was a possibility. He had accepted it when he had taken on this mission. Maybe the League wouldn't hate him if Nightwing was killed. Maybe they would even see him as one of them, fallen for the cause. The thought was comforting.
Or Nightwing would be nothing to them. Who cared about a dead Talon after all?
Ra's al Ghul's delegation entered a tunnel that would lead them to the cavern where the summit took place. Jason was in the back of the delegation. He would stay in the back and say nothing.
It was a miracle that he had even been allowed to accompany the delegation. Talia had only allowed it as a sign of good will for her knight. And so, Jason was a trainee between a group of the League's highest-level assassins. He could feel their sceptic gazes burning through him.
Jason couldn't have let this opportunity slip through his fingers though. Nightwing would be here. It would be the first time in months that Jason would see him. Jason didn't even know if they would be allowed to talk. But just seeing Nightwing alive (and hopefully well) would make Jason feel reassured.
Jason focused back on his current situation. He noted the layout of the tunnel. The walls were dark rock, but the ground had been evened out. This was definitely man-made. Ra's delegation stopped and Jason recognized that they had reached a wide cavern.
Several tunnels fed into the cavern. In front of each tunnel stood a different delegation – the whole Light assembled. Queen Bee and her servants, the Brain and Monsieur Mallah, Klarion and his cat, Black Manta and his soldiers, Vandal Savage and his loyalists and finally-
Jason released a breath of relief. Nightwing was part of Luthor's delegation. The businessman stood in front of a tunnel with Deathstroke and Marcy Graves at his side. And behind them was Nightwing.
Seeing him like this was surreal. Jason had known that Nightwing was pretending to be Deathstroke's pet but seeing him wear Deathstroke's orange still shocked him. Nightwing's face was blank as he stood at Deathstroke's heel with his hands folded behind his back. He was a picture of perfect obedience. If Jason didn't know any better, he would have been worried that Nightwing had been brainwashed again.
Nightwing's eyes met Jason. There was the slightest tilt of his head. Otherwise, Nightwing stayed unresponsive.
It was enough though. It showed Jason that his brother was still in there. That Nightwing was pretending. And he was doing a good job pretending apparently, from the way Luthor didn't seem to note him as a threat at all. Jason hadn't expected Nightwing to have it in him to become an undercover operative. But maybe that was the reason he had gotten so far. No one believed him capable of deception.
"Why did we call together a summit again?", Queen Bee asked, "It is always so cumbersome."
"I initiated this summit", Luthor said, "There are two matters which need attending to that have the utmost priority to the Light."
"And those are?", Ra's asked.
"First, I propose a new member", Luthor made a gesture, "You may enter."
Jason frowned when a man in a magician's get-up entered the cavern. The man nodded at each member of the Light.
"The Conductor?", Queen Bee sounded unimpressed.
Bee was unimpressed with everything so her reaction wasn't unusual, but Jason noted that she wasn't the only one. Vandal Savage's face had fallen, and Talia had crossed her arms.
"Indeed", Luthor said, "He proved invaluable for our Talon-trade. I have made scientific discoveries that will advance our cause."
"Which discoveries?", the Brain asked.
Luthor told the Light about Project Titan and the Talon-harvest. Jason froze at the gruesomeness of these implications. He sought eye contact with Nightwing, but his face stayed blank.
"Interesting discoveries indeed", Vandal Savage said, "They may serve to provide us a loyal army."
Ra's said: "Talons are the Court's business – and need I remind everyone present that the Court fell?"
"The Court foolishly trusted Cobb and had no way to counteract his power", Luthor said, "We won't allow any insolence."
"My Shadows have always served impeccably as the Lights' main army", Ra's sounded offended.
"They are only humans though", Klarion cackled, "Imagine having something as your army that you can slice up as much as you want, and it doesn't die."
Luthor's gaze ended up on Ra's: "With all due respect to your Shadows, Ra's al Ghul, my Talons can serve a different purpose. Shadows are for infiltration – highly intelligent covert work. My Talons would be for the grittier work like fighting the Justice League."
"We see the advantages in your Talons, Luthor", Vandal Savage said, "Valuable tools indeed."
No one in the Light spoke up after Savage had spoken. Jason suspected that Savage had a top dog position as the most experienced member of the Light. Savage was even older than Ra's.
"Now that we have decided upon the value of my Talons, we can turn back to my proposal", Luthor said, "The Conductor proved vital in controlling the Talons and leading the Talon-trade. He would be an asset to our group in this new era of warfare."
"Do you mean the operation that is basically dead ever since its main hub in Qurac was destroyed?", Manta asked.
Bee tensed. Now, she looked offended.
"You should watch your tongue, Manta. You are nothing but Ocean Master's replacement", Bee's voice was cutting.
"I didn't mean to insult your operation, Queen, but it was destroyed."
"The three Amazonian tribes came together to thwart my operation. The mission was led by Wonder Woman herself. There was nothing to be done", Bee justified herself with a sharp
tone.
"We all know that the League was behind this. This has Batman's fingerprints all over it", Luthor said, "The League has been more aggressive lately. It stormed one of my meetings with Intergang and destroyed our Qurac-operation."
"Suspicious indeed", Savage said.
"I have long feared that the League has a mole in our organisation", Luthor said, "I have my suspicions about the identity of this mole, and he is among us."
Jason's blood ran cold. He forced himself to not look at Nightwing.
"Yeah", Bee scoffed, "The Batbrat that you brought along, Luthor."
"We have two Batbrats in our organization", Klarion giggled viciously as he looked at Jason.
Jason tensed.
He opened his mouth to confess falsely. Anything to avoid Nightwing from being exposed as the mole.
But Talia spoke up first: "It is true that I have taken Jason Todd under my tutelage because I see potential in him. However, he has not left Nanda Parbat and he would have no way to know about Lex Luthor's Intergang-meeting."
Jason cursed internally. Talia's argument made sense. It came from a positive place, but it had also destroyed Jason's chances of protecting his brother.
Ra's glared at Talia: "Daughter, you are to leave the speaking to me."
"Of course, father", Talia bowed her head.
"That's true", Manta said, "Todd should have no way of knowing all this intel. The mole has to be in Luthor's delegation and interestingly – there happens to be a Batbrat in Luthor's delegation."
Oh no. Jason hoped that Nightwing had a plan for this. Nightwing's current reaction was no reaction at all. N was bringing the concept of poker face to a whole new level here.
The Conductor's laugh echoed through the Cave: "You believe that a Talon is capable of infiltrating the Light? That is the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard."
"It could have the intel about Luthor's activities, and it has the prior connection to Batman", Manta protested.
"I've controlled this thing", the Conductor said, "Its mind consists of nothing but programming. It can't even speak properly."
Jason would have felt rage at his brother being belittled like this but in this instance, he hoped that the Conductor could sway the Light's opinion.
"Why don't we have the Conductor control it? Ask it if it is a mole", Manta said.
"Enough", Luthor said, "I have tested the Talon. It has been nothing but loyal as its programming demands. It has exhibited no signs of personal thoughts or dignity. Are you doubting my intellectual abilities, Manta?"
No signs of personal thoughts or dignity? What the hell, N? What did you do for this mission?
"I would never question your intellect, Luthor", Manta said.
"Good", Luthor said, "It would be quite presumptuous of a new member to do so especially considering that I have already deduced who the mole is."
Manta tensed. Jason could see the anger within him, but the other members of the Light didn't pay Manta much attention. It was interesting to see the inner workings of the Light. Jason hadn't expected this system of seniority.
"It is related to my second point", Luthor said, "I have reason to believe that Deathstroke is the mole. I isolated Deathstroke from my operation for weeks while keeping the Talon involved and I had no incidences since. Another reason for me to believe that the Talon is dependable. It is time to hold a challenge for a new enforcer of the Light as Deathstroke cannot be trusted."
Slade crossed his arms. He looked pissed off.
"Cain and Lady Shiva showed no interest in taking up this position even after prolonged negotiations", Ra's said, "Even if Deathstroke is a mole, we do not have a suitable alternative. You don't seek to propose Sportsmaster again?"
Jason held his breath. He knew who Luthor would propose – and he didn't like it. This would paint a giant target on Nightwing's back.
"I propose the Talon", Luthor said.
Deathstroke chuckled: "You think the Talon can beat me? That is amusing, Luthor."
"A Talon as our enforcer?", Ra's asked, "Just the idea is disgraceful."
"The idea wouldn't be completely without merit", Bee said, "The Talon would be under our control completely. We've had our issues with unruly enforcers in the past. Sportsmaster was insolent. Cobb went off the book to follow his own agendas. And Deathstroke…"
"What do you want to say about me, Queen?", Slade spoke up, a dark undertone to his voice, "Luthor's accusation is ridiculous. I am not a mole."
"Which is something a mole would say", Manta added.
Deathstroke glared at Manta.
"Let the Talon fight him", a sadistic glint appeared in Bee's eyes.
"You are wasting your time", Deathstroke said, "I trained that Talon. It is obedient to me first of all."
Deathstroke turned to Nightwing: "You are forbidden from fighting me."
"Yes, Handler", Nightwing said.
Luthor spoke up: "Override Handler-command. You are to fight Deathstroke and you are to kill him. Bring me that mole's head."
Nightwing tilted his head: "Grandmaster-order highest pri-o-ri-ty."
Luthor smirked at Slade: "See? It belongs to me."
"I am not a mole. I'll prove it to you by cutting off this insolent, little Talon's head", Deathstroke balled his fists.
He stepped into the middle of the circle.
"I'm the most powerful mercenary in the business. The Light needs me. After I've won this challenge, I demand a pay raise."
"You shall get your pay raise if you prove your loyalty today, Deathstroke", Savage said.
Jason hoped Nightwing knew what he was doing. This looked like it would get ugly.
Jason took a deep breath to calm himself down. Deathstroke and Nightwing must have choreographed this. Jason assumed that Deathstroke would lose on purpose and Nightwing would fake-kill him. That plan made the most sense. Jason hoped that he was right.
"Kill him, Talon", Luthor ordered.
"Yes, Grandmaster", Nightwing said.
Jason didn't want to watch this. But he forced himself to.
Nightwing entered the circle. He drew a knife and went into a fighting stance. Slade and Nightwing had choreographed every move of this fight.
Deathstroke would get the upper hand after a while and push Nightwing to the floor. Then, Nightwing would get a swipe in with his claw that Slade would pretend was too quick to dodge. It would set off the first blood pack in Slade's stomach.
Nightwing would attack quickly then, and claw open the other blood packages around Slade's body. They had put half a dozen in. Their fight had to be bloody to be convincing.
Slade would drop to the floor and Nightwing would push the pill in pronouncing Slade death. It was the same Nightwing had done with Wally only more gruesome.
Nightwing tilted his head: "Grandmaster Luthor has sentenced you to die, Deathstroke."
"Good luck carrying out that sentence, kid", Slade said, "You'll need it."
Slade was such a drama queen. Nightwing didn't know how many movies he had watched with Wally that contained that same line.
Nightwing threw a knife at Deathstroke's jugular. Slade dodged as they had choreographed. Deathstroke sent a kick to Nightwing's collarbone. Nightwing didn't dodge as they had choreographed. Nightwing's vision whitened out for a moment as his collarbone was smashed. He jumped back gaining more distance from Deathstroke.
"I made you, kid. I can destroy you whenever I want."
Nightwing's collarbone twitched as it reset itself. He cartwheeled at Slade and swiped his leg with a claw. Slade cursed. The next few minutes went by in the routine they had practiced. Nightwing inflicted a few shallow wounds on Slade while Slade got in more brutal hits that Nightwing healed immediately. Nightwing kicked the katana out of Slade's hand. It landed on the rock.
Then, the critical moment approached.
Nightwing allowed Slade to swipe his legs out under him. Nightwing landed on the ground. Slade immediately pinned Nightwing. Nightwing ripped his arm out of Slade's grip – as choreographed – and swiped to rip open the blood package on Slade's stomach.
But before Nightwing could make contact, Slade's hand shot out and gripped Nightwing's wriest. Slade's grip was powerful – edging on painful. Nightwing tried to rip his arm free, but Slade's grip didn't even budge.
Nightwing tensed. Slade had just gone off-script. His thoughts raced, thinking of any reasons why Slade could have done this. But he couldn't find any that made sense. The Light hadn't intervened in their little stage fight. There was no reason to change it.
Slade's fist rained down on Nightwing's arm – breaking it. Nightwing screamed as the pain blackened out his sight for just a moment. Deathstroke used that moment to push Nightwing's arm under him. With Deathstroke's superior bodyweight and strength over him, Nightwing's arm was immobilized. He tried to swipe out with his other claw but Deathstroke gripped Nightwing's arm and pinned it down.
Nightwing couldn't move any of his limbs anymore. Deathstroke had immobilized them all.
It… It seemed like Deathstroke wanted to kill Nightwing for real. But that couldn't be, right? They had a plan that would bring them both forward in their mission. There was no reason for Slade to go off-script.
Nightwing had expected Slade to betray him if it suited him. But Slade wouldn't outright murder Nightwing in cold blood. Not after they had made a kind-of connection in these last few months. Nightwing refused to believe that. Slade was changing the script for a reason Nightwing couldn't see.
"What go on?", Nightwing mouthed at Slade.
Slade didn't answer. Instead, his free hand went to Nightwing's neck and squeezed.
"I'll rip off your head, kid", Slade said.
He sounded like he meant it. And the way he ripped at Nightwing's neck also felt like he meant it. Nightwing found himself thrashing under Slade. He waited for Slade to let up and go back to the script, but Slade didn't.
Nightwing made a pained sound at the force tearing at his neck. He didn't even recognize the sounds coming out of his mouth.
Nightwing's head fell back, and he caught Jason's eye. Jason looked terrified and like he wanted to run down into this pit and enter the fight himself.
Jason signed something: 'He's killing you.'
Nightwing froze. He looked up into Slade's eye. There was no indication of this being an act. No indication of Slade trying to communicate with Nightwing about the change in plan.
Jason was right. Slade was killing him in cold blood. Nightwing didn't know why.
The realization was terrifying. Slade had helped Nightwing when he had been weakened by the Electrum-harvesting. He had promised that he would protect Nightwing from the worst of Luthor's plans – ensure that Nightwing wouldn't be treated like a disposable toy. He had talked Nightwing down from multiple anxiety attacks. Just earlier in the plane, Slade's quick thinking had given Nightwing a moment to calm down. Nightwing had assumed that they at least shared some understanding and respect after all this time.
He had been wrong. Bruce's warning came into Nightwing's head. Slade had ruined his family. Nightwing was nothing in comparison.
"Sorry, kid", Slade heightened the pressure on Nightwing's throat.
He didn't sound very sorry. Slade had meant it when he had told the Light that he would kill Nightwing to prove himself to them. Nightwing was nothing but a disposable tool to Slade. Something to use and throw away once it suited him.
It was like Cobb all over again. Again, Nightwing had tried to connect – to trust. Only for it to blow up in his face. It had to be Nightwing's fault. He was too stupid to-
No. Nightwing would die if he went down this train of thought now. He could already feel his neck tearing. The only reason Slade hadn't ripped off Nightwing's neck yet was Nightwing's struggling. Slade exerted half of his strength on keeping Nightwing pinned down.
But Nightwing could feel his struggle getting weaker. He had enough. He was so sick of being manipulated and taken advantage of. He had endured humiliation after humiliation for this mission while Slade had stayed safely in the back and wallowed in his little midlife crisis.
Nightwing wasn't the one being pathetic here. Slade was for destroying their successful mission and partnership over his stupid pride. Just like he had destroyed something as precious as his family over his pride.
Nightwing's head shot up. He was acting on pure, desperate instinct as he sank his teeth into Slade's nose. Slade screamed in pain as Nightwing tore into his flesh.
Slade treated him like a Talon? He would get a Talon.
Slade let up from Nightwing's neck. His nose was a bloody mess. Blood dripped onto Nightwing's face and he could taste the blood in his mouth.
Nightwing rolled out from under Slade. He got back onto his feet. Nightwing's arm cracked as it reset itself. He tilted his head and went into a fighting stance.
"Kid", Slade sounded like he wanted to calm Nightwing down.
But Nightwing was past the point of calming down. He was pissed.
Slade took out a gun and raised it at Nightwing. Slade shot. But Nightwing jumped into the air and flipped over Slade. He landed silently behind Slade and shoved a knife into Slade's back. Slade growled in pain.
"You like be stab in back?", Nightwing hissed.
"I'm not losing to the younger model."
Nightwing scoffed. He had been right. It all came back to Slade's stupid mid-life crisis and pride. Everyone's stupid, petty, little pride that Nightwing had to bend over backwards to appease.
Nightwing ripped his claws down Slade's back. One of the blood packages spilled open. But Nightwing knew that there was real blood mixed in from Slade's pained grunts.
Slade's elbow shot out, hitting Nightwing in the shoulder. The force threw Nightwing back. But he caught himself in a role and ended up in a crouch.
Slade shot at Nightwing again. Nightwing lunged at Slade. The bullets hit Nightwing's stomach. But he didn't care as he kicked the gun out of Slade's hand. It clattered to the ground.
Nightwing rolled to the side and picked up the gun. He shot at Slade's arm. Another blood package ripped open.
Meanwhile, the bullets cluttered out of Nightwing's stomach. Slade looked at the bullets dropping out of Nightwing's stomach. Slade was at a disadvantage now. The mercenary was injured while Nightwing had recovered from everything.
Slade threw a projectile at Nightwing's hand. It hit its target. Tearing into Nightwing's flesh. Nightwing lost the gun. Fine. He preferred blades anyway.
Nightwing ripped the projectile out of his hand. He dodged one of Slade's blows and shoved the projectile into Slade's stomach. The mercenary grunted.
Slade's kick came out of nowhere. It hit Nightwing in the ribs, throwing him to the floor. Nightwing could hear his ribs cracking.
Slade jumped at him but Nightwing rolled out of the way before Slade could pin him down again. The floor vibrated under the force of Slade's landing.
"I'm stronger than you", Slade said.
Nightwing got back onto his feet. His rips healed themselves in a cascade of cracks that made Nightwing's torso jerk.
Slade was right. The mercenary was stronger. He had used that fact when he had Nightwing on the ground. He had choreographed the fight exactly how he had needed it to ensure that he would betray Nightwing in the most vulnerable position possible. On the ground where Slade's strength advantage would almost guarantee his victory.
But Nightwing wasn't on the ground anymore.
He pointed his grappling gun to the ceiling of the cavern and zipped up. Nightwing crouched in the rock formations. He melted into the shadows as he was used to from Gotham.
"You going Bat on me?", Slade looked around trying to find Nightwing.
He pointed his gun at the ceiling.
Nightwing threw a knife at Slade. Slade dodged. Nightwing creeped around the ceiling, flinging knife after knife at Slade while Slade tried to shoot at him.
"Come on, kid", Slade said, "This is getting ridiculous."
Nightwing climbed along the ceiling. Careful to stay obscured by the rocks. He dropped down when he was directly above Slade landing on Slade's shoulders. Slade tensed in surprise.
Nightwing ripped off Slade's eyepatch. He shoved his claws into the hole in Slade's eye and twisted. Slade screamed in pain. He threw Nightwing off him. Nightwing caught himself in another roll. His claws were coated in Slade's blood now.
Nightwing looked up. Blood was running down from Slade's eye hole.
"Gravity, kid. You should remember it", Slade was trying to keep up his sarcastic persona, but Nightwing could hear the pain in his voice.
Deathstroke looked like he had trouble keeping himself up. The rock around them was coated in blood at this point. Black and red intermingling. The Light had gotten its bloody fight. Nightwing only needed to end it now.
He lunged forward. Slashing out with his claws, he ripped open the blood package on Slade's chest. At the same time, he kicked against Slade's knee making it buckle from down under him. Slade landed on the ground hard.
Then, Nightwing wailed on him. Fist after fist rained down on Slade's body.
All the rage Nightwing felt wanted to erupt in an explosion of violence. Nightwing wanted to kill Slade for real after what he had done to him.
Slade had dug up the dirt for the leak. He had manipulated Nightwing into this mission. He had betrayed Nightwing and almost killed him for his pride.
Slade deserved it.
But Nightwing couldn't. If he killed Slade now, he would be like Cobb. A monster who killed to get to the top. Nightwing could see it in front of him. Cobb being proud of Nightwing for his cold-bloodedness.
No. Nightwing hadn't killed for more than a year now. He wouldn't destroy his streak with Slade. He would spite Slade by winning the game according to his own rules.
So, Nightwing punched Slade in the face and used the occasion to slip the capsule into Slade's mouth.
Slade's throat bobbed. He had swallowed it. Good.
For a few moments, there was nothing. Neither of them moved. Slade too out of it to move and Nightwing waiting – like a predator.
Nightwing tilted his head. He took off his glove and put it to Slade's wriest, feeling for a pulse. Nothing.
Nightwing stood up. His suit was covered in blood. Black and red obscuring the orange. Nightwing didn't belong to Deathstroke anymore – not even in the eyes of the Light. He had killed his master.
He turned to Luthor: "Deathstroke dead."
Nightwing folded his hands behind his back and lowered his gaze. Turning into a submissive and quiet presence again. Inside, his body was still cursing with energy. Seeing Slade down was satisfying.
Nightwing hadn't done it like a hero. But he hadn't been like a villain either. He had stopped himself before Slade would be added to his 'people killed'-list for real. A win in his eyes.
Luthor looked delighted. His face was the face of a man whose plan had worked out splendidly.
"This thing is an animal", Manta sounded shocked.
Nightwing noted that there was still the taste of blood in his mouth. It was far too familiar.
"An effective animal", Luthor said, "It just took care of our mole."
"It did", Bee said, "The enforcer is dead. Long live the new enforcer."
"It's decided", Klarion chuckled, "After this entertaining show."
"Wait", Manta said, "No one is concerned about a mindless animal becoming our enforcer?"
"Which would bring us to my first proposal", Luthor said, "The Conductor can keep our beast on a tight leash in case it gets loose."
"I can", the Conductor said, "It is incapable of resisting me. Do we want to give them a show, Sweetheart?"
Nightwing tensed at the Conductor's attention. No one could get under his skin like this creep.
"No one wants to see your depravity, Conductor", Ra's sounded unimpressed, "However, I see the logic in Luthor's argument. The Talon should serve our purposes well. It is certainly capable enough after how rigorously it was trained. If the Conductor is capable of keeping it in line, he should gain a seat on the Light."
"I agree with this assessment", the Brain said.
Everyone turned to Savage. He frowned. But then, he nodded.
"The Talon has proved that it is the strongest for this position", Savage said, "I see the value of the Conductor as a backup-plan. We will not make the same mistake that the Court made with Cobb. It is decided. Both of Luthor's proposals are approved."
Lex raised his chin. Nightwing had never seen him so smug. The smartest man of the world had won again – or so he thought at least.
Nightwing took his place behind Luthor again. The energy in his body went down allowing him to take his new situation in. Nightwing was the enforcer of the Light now. It shouldn't be real. This felt like a perversion of everything that had been beaten into Nightwing – everything that was natural. Talons followed orders. They certainly didn't hold special positions.
"About our dealings with Intergang", Bee spoke up, "I have some remarks to make-"
There was the faint sound of a jet rapidly approaching. Nightwing tilted his head. He knew what it was. The League coming in from Nightwing's tip. Bruce was doing his part of the job.
They had already decided that Nightwing would tip the Light off first. It would help solidify his position and dispel further doubts.
"Grandmaster", Nightwing said, "I hear plane."
Luthor tensed.
"We have to leave", Luthor interrupted Bee, "Someone is approaching. Probably the League. Deathstroke must have tipped them off."
Bee cursed. The atmosphere in the mountain became hectic.
Luthor raised his hand: "I prepared for a bomb to go off once we have evacuated the mountain. The League will be met by an unwelcome surprise."
Klarion giggled. This was all just a game to him.
"Good thinking, Luthor", there was that sadistic glint in Bee's eyes again.
It made Nightwing shiver.
The members of the Light were scurrying to run away when a blur of red and blue flew into the cavern.
"Win us time to escape", Luthor screamed at Nightwing and threw something at him, "Follow when I give you the signal over the comms."
Nightwing caught it. He froze when he looked down at the gun. There was a green glow emanating from it. Kryptonite.
"Shoot Superman with it", Luthor said, "It's enough to kill him."
"Yes, Grandmaster", Nightwing said.
Superman shot his laser vision at the tunnel which the Brain tried to escape through, searing off his escape path. Monsieur Mallah lunged at Superman, but Superman kicked Mallah back against the Cave wall. Rocks dropped down from the wall.
Nightwing would need to hold back the League until Luthor gave the signal that allowed Nightwing to follow him. Great. This day just kept getting harder and harder.
Luthor ran towards his tunnel. He was shielded by Marcy Graves who had turned her arm into a machine gun.
Nightwing put himself in front of that tunnel, shielding his Grandmaster with his own body.
The other underlings stayed back as well, all securing their respective masters' escape. A green figure floated into the cavern. Green Lantern. He was directly engaged by Manta's army.
Superman turned away from Mallah and his gaze met Nightwing's directly. Nightwing knew what Superman wanted to do before he had the chance to. He flipped to the side, avoiding Superman's icy breath.
"Nightwing", Superman said.
He sounded angry but also deeply sad. The conflicting emotions in Superman's voice made Nightwing shiver. Superman was the biggest hero of them all. Having him be disappointed in him was crushing.
"Stand down", Nightwing aimed the Kryptonite-weapon at Superman's heart, keeping his voice emotionless.
"This isn't you", Superman said, "I know you."
And Superman did. He had seen Nightwing at one of his lowest moments. He had believed in Nightwing all the way through. And Nightwing wished he could tell Clark the truth. But he couldn't.
Superman approached.
"Whatever they are telling you, they don't care about you. They only see you as a weapon. I know you can be more than that. I've seen it and I refuse to believe that those were all lies."
Nightwing's chest twisted. He wanted to scream at Superman that everything from before had been true. That now Nightwing was tangled in a web of lies he had woven himself.
Instead, Nightwing kept up his blank persona. He was nothing now.
"Stand down", Nightwing repeated.
He really didn't want to shoot Superman. But all the trust he had just won with the Light would be lost if Nightwing didn't use this damn Kryptonite gun.
"Talk to me, Nightwing. What happened to you? Why did you feel the need to run away?"
Nightwing couldn't help but be in awe. After everything Nightwing had supposedly done, Superman still tried to get through to him. This was a true hero.
Nightwing had been right to leave the League. He would never be worthy enough to be in Superman's proximity. No matter how many people he saved.
"And Kid Flash?", for the first time, anger creeped into Superman's voice, "Why did you do this to him? He loved you."
"He do love me", Nightwing answered, "Mission success."
Superman's face twisted in shock. Nightwing knew that this was the point of no return. Superman would hate him now, too. Nightwing needed to take out Superman – this beacon of heroism - before he turned his hate into action.
"I loyal to Light and Grandmaster Luthor", Nightwing aimed for the spot right next to Superman's heart.
Enough to severely injure. Enough to make it seem like Nightwing had aimed to kill. High likelihood of survival especially for a Kryptonian if treated quickly. Nightwing was playing a lot with likelihoods nowadays. More than he liked.
The green bullet shot out of the gun. Superman screamed in pain. He dropped onto the ground.
Nightwing compartmentalized the shame that spread through his chest. The League would hate him now if it hadn't already. He had just secured himself a top spot on their 'Most Wanted'-list. After killing Wally, becoming enforcer of the Light and severely injuring Superman – Nightwing couldn't blame them.
"Supes is down", Green Lantern screamed into his comm, "Little traitor shot him with a Kryptonite-bullet."
Nightwing could hear panicked talking over the comm. It was his fault. Nightwing had made the League so desperate.
"I'm coming to get him to a medic", Wonder Woman said.
More Leaguers hurried into the Cave. Canary screamed at Manta's goons. The shockwave cracked their underwater helmets.
Nightwing felt the whisp of air from a kick aimed at his head before it connected. He rolled to the side. Batman had lunged at him.
"You'll pay for what you did", Batman said.
Nightwing allowed himself to fall into a routine. This was Bruce. His Dad. Bruce wouldn't betray him.
He could see what Bruce aimed to do. Bruce was trying to lead him into one of the tunnels so they could talk away from prying eyes and ears. Nightwing allowed a punch to connect. It threw him back into the tunnel.
Bruce said: "We'll continue to fight in case someone sees us."
Nightwing nodded. He felt the need to hug Bruce, but Bruce wouldn't allow it if it could jeopardize the mission.
"Any intel?", Batman asked.
"Conductor join Light. I enforcer now. Luthor believe I completely loyal. You need get Slade-body so he not die."
"I took care of it", Bruce said, "I took his body in the chaos of the fight. I put him on the Batplane and gave him the substance to restart his heart. He's still unconscious. You did good. I'm impressed by how far you've come."
"I shoot Superman with Kryptonite."
"In a non-lethal place?"
"I miss his heart close. He survive if get treatment quick."
Batman nodded.
"You not angry?", Nightwing asked as he threw another half-hearted punch at Bruce.
"No. I understand that you have to make sacrifices for the mission and that you know what you are doing. Harley Quinn has made a complete recovery and is currently back in Arkham. You made the right call."
"Thank you, B."
"I want you to see this mission to its end and come home."
"I not know if they want me back."
"I want you back", Batman said, "Remember that you'll always have a home with me – no matter what the rest of the League says."
Nightwing smiled: "You the best, B."
Batman simply grunted in acknowledgement.
"You need leave island quick", Nightwing said, "Luthor have bomb. He set if off when Light away."
"I will", Batman was about to run back into the main cavern, when he halted.
Jason stood in front of them.
Jason had seen Batman and Nightwing end up in a tunnel during their fight. He hurried after them, running through the sea of combatants.
When he reached them, they were sparring half-heartedly and having a heart-to-heart. It looked convincing from afar though. And the chaos was too complete for anyone to come looking.
Jason's stomach clenched. Nightwing was still undoubtedly Bruce's favorite – no matter what the old man wanted to tell Jason. Jason wondered if that would change once Bruce found out about his blood son.
They turned around and froze when they noticed Jason.
"Jason", Nightwing ran up to Jason and hugged him – throwing all pretenses over board.
Jason pulled his brother close. They were shielded from view here. And it had been too long since Jason had hugged Nightwing. Less than an hour ago, Jason had seen the possibility in front of him that he may never hug Nightwing again.
"You scared me there for a second", Jason said, "I thought Deathstroke would kill you."
"Slade go off-script. You be right. I only survive because you help me see", Nightwing shuddered.
He sounded shaken. Jason was shaken as well. It had been horrific. Seeing Nightwing pushed to the ground with Deathstroke trying his hard to crush Nightwing's neck to death.
Jason had struggled to hold himself back. Running into that ring would have been a death sentence for Jason and Nightwing. Instead, Jason had given Nightwing as much support from the sidelines as he could.
And Jason's message had helped. Nightwing had fought Deathstroke for real after that message.
"I'd kill that bastard myself."
"That very sweet, Jason, but please not", Nightwing said.
Jason chuckled. Nightwing was still the same person in everything that counted.
"Long time, no see, Jason", Batman said.
"Is that disdain in your voice, old man?"
"I haven't heard from you for months. Until today, I wasn't even sure if you were still alive."
Nightwing's arm tightened around Jason at the possibility.
"I spent some time with the League of Shadows and I learned some interesting things about Talia al Ghul."
"You talked to Talia?", Bruce perked up, "What did she say?"
"Did you know that you had a son?"
Bruce frowned: "I have two sons."
"No", Jason said, "A real son."
"What you mean, Jason?", Nightwing broke off the hug.
He sounded hurt.
"Bruce has a blood son with Talia al Ghul", Jason said, "Damian. He's 10."
Bruce froze: "That can't be."
"So, you didn't enjoy your time together?"
Bruce shook his head: "We were always protected."
"You and I both know that this doesn't work 100% of the time."
"We have little brother?", Nightwing sounded excited.
"Don't get too excited. He's a real brat and he doesn't believe that Talons are people. So, even if he met you, he would treat you like a mindless tool."
"Oh", Nightwing lowered his gaze.
He looked even more hurt.
Jason felt bad again. He didn't mean to be snide with Nightwing, but it just came out. It ruffled him the wrong way when he saw Nightwing and Bruce being so close. It made Jason want to lash out at Nightwing – the favorite son. It wasn't fair.
"I order you to come home, Jason", Bruce raised his voice, "The Shadows are no place for a hero."
"Who said I wanted to be a hero? I want to be justice."
"The Shadows don't teach justice."
Jason scoffed: "I'll show you what real justice is. You won't see us coming."
"Us?", Batman asked.
"I have a partner", Jason said, "We'll clean up Gotham together."
"Who is this partner?"
"You'd love to know, wouldn't you?"
Nightwing tilted his head suddenly. He listened to his comm and raised his hand – indicating Bruce and Jason to be quiet.
Nightwing pressed onto the comm, activating it and answered: "Understand, Grandmaster Luthor."
Nightwing turned to them: "Luthor order me go. He blow up mountain soon. You need leave."
Batman nodded: "Today was a success. I got word that we caught Manta and the Brain. Unlike Luthor, there are actual charges we can hit them with. Good work, Nightwing."
Nightwing lighted up. Jason swallowed down his bitterness. Nightwing had gone through hell for this. He deserved some acknowledgement.
"Be safe", Nightwing looked at them both, but mostly at Jason.
Jason scoffed. Big brother was being a mother hen again.
Nightwing ran towards the exit of the tunnel. Jason ran back into the cavern to rejoin the assassins.
"EVERYONE NEEDS TO EVACUATE", Batman screamed, "There is a bomb set to blow up the mountain."
The combatants halted. The common threat united them now as they scurried towards the tunnels. Jason joined his delegation of assassins. Following them into the darkness and towards safety.
Tigress perched behind a rock formation. She had used a motorboat to get to the island. It was towed nearby in the bay hidden under some leaves.
Tigress had a bow in hand with an ice arrow ready. Luthor had already evacuated. He had hurried onto helicopter which had promptly flown off. Currently, it was hovering in the air, waiting for something – no someone.
The same someone Tigress was waiting for.
A figure in black and orange ran out of one of the tunnels. Nightwing. Tigress felt hate flare up in her as she saw the blood on Nightwing's suit. The snake had killed again. This would be the last blood Nightwing spilled. Tigress would end it today.
Nightwing hurried towards the helicopter. A rope was thrown out of its door. Nightwing started to pull himself up. Perfect.
Tigress shot her arrow at Nightwing while he was halfway up. He was forced to let go off the rope lest the arrow would hit him. Nightwing tumbled to the ground. Tigress heard an impact as Nightwing's body hit the ground. He tried to land in a crouch to weaken the impact of the landing, but it had no use. Nightwing's legs cracked as they hit the ground.
Exactly as Tigress had planned.
Tigress shot another ice arrow at him. And another. And another. Nightwing rolled out of the way. But he was getting weaker. His broken legs desperately twitched in an attempt to regenerate themselves. Tigress didn't give them enough time.
The third arrow hit him. Nightwing's body grew sluggish. He tried to heft himself up and reach for the rope again, but Tigress shot him with another arrow. And another for good measure. She couldn't be careful enough with this snake.
Nightwing dropped to the floor. Just lying there. Three ice arrows were stuck in his body.
Luthor seemed to have noticed that his pet wouldn't make it. The rope was dropped to the ground and the doors of the helicopter closed as it flew off. Leaving Nightwing to Tigress' mercy.
Tigress grinned smugly. Nightwing deserved this. To be betrayed and deserted by his master. Just like he had betrayed the team, Artemis and Wally. Wally most of all.
Tigress approached her prey. Nightwing's head turned to her. He bit his lip.
"Artemis?", Nightwing sounded surprised.
Tigress scoffed at the tone of his voice. Nightwing was a liar – a psychopath. Any emotion in his voice was faked. They had learned that lesson painstakingly.
"Tigress", she corrected him, "I stopped being Artemis to you when you killed my friend."
Nightwing's eyes widened: "What you here for do, Artemis?"
Tigress balled her fists: "I'm here to return the favor of course."
She took out one of Nightwing's old Court knives.
"Artie-", he sounded like her friend.
It was all a lie.
"Shut up", Tigress glared at him, "Let me talk to you in a language you understand: I have sentenced you to die – in the name of Wally West."
Nightwing bit down harder on his lip. Tigress was satisfied to see black blood clinging to it. The traitor was terrified.
Good. He should be.