The crimson that was staining on his black gloved knuckles was shining brightly even in the somewhat dim lighting of the Bat-cave; it mocked him for his loss of control. Holding promises of brutality he barely kept under lock and key. Taunting him as the Joker had done so over the years with revaluations of if he wasn't as morally just as he proclaimed to be. Even the squeaks of bats overhead couldn't bring him out of the self-doubts that were washing over him. Batman had saved the Joker's life; yet again. Even if the man he had protected, brought to his place of security had no memory of years past. Batman could make as many excuses as he wanted to stabilize himself against the ever growing guilt, but none of it would hold any weight at the implications of his actions. A decision that could be as detrimental for everyone involved because in the end he couldn't bring himself to let the man he knew as the Joker to die. To finally waste away into only memories for all who once knew him.
Wasn't that the same mistake he always made?
Always putting the murderer's safety over the ones he loved?
'Because the ugly truth of it is Bats, is that you love me more than them'
A constant decision that made Joker's statement at the malicious dinner table he specifically set up for Batman seem to ring true.
'You know it, I know it, and now they know it, too. They know how you want me to kill them.'
Batman clenched his fists as he tried not to remember. Tried not to think on it and not let the reality set in that perhaps, through all of the Joker's ramblings, the manic might have been right. The Bat-Suit feeling more constricting than it had ever felt before. He wanted to remove it; shake off the suffocating feeling as if that would dissipate the memories of Joker's words as well. Despite knowing that nothing could accomplish that task.
'How you leave the doors unlocked at night. Hoping I get them.'
Was that really what Batman was doing by bringing Jack here? By not letting him die? By not doing what would be for the greater good over his own morality?
No.
Batman couldn't allow himself to think that. Couldn't allow the loathing that crept around his heart; threatening to mold and harden it. He just couldn't have sat back and let anyone no matter how deserving perish if he could be there to prevent it. If he did then he would be no different than what he fought against. Jack wasn't the Joker. Not really. Not anymore. The tests he run proved that. Even Jack's blood didn't have the same potent toxicity that the Joker used to. No chemical burns that caused his skin to be chalk white. Not even the scars anymore that proved as a testament of years of bloodshed just to get Batman's attention.
Did that really matter?
Ever since their last battle in the cave even Batman didn't have the psychical scars that coated his body previously.
The mental scars, however, always remained.
Batman wondered if the same could be said for Jack as well.
It wasn't a comforting thought, but one he had to consider. When he had spent time with Jack as Bruce Wayne though, everything felt different. He could never seem to find a glimpse of the cruelty that used to linger in every movement that the Joker made. Didn't hear the callous mirth even when Jack would let out a small laugh. Honestly, very little resembled the Joker in the man known as Jack. Even the green eyes weren't as bright. Didn't have the same shade of color -just off by a small margin- or coldness he was accustomed to seeing. Where pupils were no longer tiny pin pricks unless gazing at the Dark Knight himself. By all accounts, Jack seemed like a stable; if not socially awkward individual. Jack even went out of his way to feed starving fish which only resulted in him getting injured and brought here in the first place. Joker would have never shed a single thought of a small act of kindness that would be so insignificant to anyone else, but spoke volumes to Batman of how so unlike the Joker, Jack actually was.
There was no solace that could be found. No form of security in realizing these things. He knew how quickly that could change. How just one bad day -as Joker put it- could destroy any semblance of peace. Semantics that was all they were at this point. When Batman should find reassurance he was only left with trepidation. A simple fact that there was a dead-line for when everything fell apart all over again. Which if that ever occurred could they even survive this time? The forlorn conclusion was that, no, they couldn't. All he knew was that he would do everything in his capacity to prevent that very outcome. End the never ending repeating cycle of fate that Gotham seemed determined to thrust upon them.
Would it have been better if they died in that cave? Bruce thought bitterly to himself.
It wasn't the first nor will it probably be the last time he would question if they should have survived. At the time he had accepted his long overdue demise. Willingly to just rest there as everything he fought for collapsed like the structure of the cave. Batman had foiled Joker's farewell to Gotham City and Batman alike. A perfect ending to their yearlong dance -Joker's choice of words- and to just let go into the abyss. No more long nights attempting to fix the unfixable of poison his city held so deeply in its roots of concrete and corruption. The sun would still shine when they disappeared into obscurity. Weather would always be awful and the battle for justice and chaos would continue without them. A fitting end to the bloodshed, violence and corpses that was left in their wake for Gotham to pick up the pieces and carry on like it never even mattered to begin with.
Fate had simply decided to change the game. Allowing them both to live and start anew in whatever form that would take. A chance at something different but on a knife edge of falling into the same routine. It may have been better if they just faded away, however, since that didn't happen both were left to embrace this new world. This new way of life and who knew where the dominos would fall. Fall they would and Batman only could hope for the better. Fight against the past. Determined to prevent the resurface of the Clown Prince of Crime. The answer to how to do just that would always come down to Jack. A man in a white suite, who sat at bench was the wild card in their future and Batman could only attempt to prevent that the deck wouldn't use Jack as the Joker card.
The intercom in his cowl clicked on; distracting him from his thoughts as a sigh escaped his lips. It should have been obvious that Alfred would be supervising the situation folding out before his ward in the Manor. Batman really should have disabled the video feed to the cave when he got there, but was too preoccupied dealing with Jack at the time to think better of it. A mistake he yearned wouldn't have dire consequences. The only bit of luck that he had on his side was that the sedatives he gave Jack a while ago did the desire result. Another sign that the other was no longer the Joker. No amount of drugs ever worked against the madman in the past. Got to look at the small things in life as Jack had told him. A small lesson that was ever poetic in the timing. Jack was currently slumbering away in the small holding cell Batman kept just in case of emergencies; even if the door to said cell was open. Risky, but he felt reassured enough that it wouldn't pose him much of a problem.
Jack is not the Joker anymore, he kept having to tell himself.
"Master Bruce." Alfred's voice came over the com.
Blue orbs hidden by white slits of his cowl glanced at the holding cell. Debating with himself if this was the appropriate place for this particular conversation he knew would follow. Not one he didn't want to have, but one he couldn't avoid all the same. It was already closing in on dawn and he knew soon he'd have to deliver Jack back to his home; if the man was stable enough to do so. The risk of being spotted in broad day would pose too much of a problem. Well if need be he just wouldn't take the Bat-mobile. Batman had plenty of his cars in his cave if the need to be conspicuous arrived. He knew he was stalling what little time he had when Alfred was still waiting for a response. He had a feeling by the short duration of silence between them that his father figure was watching him from the video feed as he sat at the Bat-computer. A part of him felt unjustified irritation that he was being spied on in the first place, but given the circumstances of how he brought Jack here and Joker's previous attack on the cave; he couldn't bring himself to hold on to that anger. Not at Alfred, anyways. Only at himself. Knowing he couldn't prevent the inevitable, he sighed and stood up. Deciding that it would be best to step away from possible ear-shot if Jack awoke anytime soon. He didn't want to go too far, regardless he had no choice in the matter.
Just like his entire life had been; it seemed.
Batman went to the car holding dock in the cave. Alfred thankfully hadn't said a word to him as he went there. He felt slightly uneasy being out of sight from where the holding cell was, but he figured he could make this conversation go by as quickly as possible. Maybe. Who knows when it came down to how protective or curious Alfred might be. Which was by default a lot.
"What is it, Alfred? I'm pretty busy at the moment." Batman said and tried to keep the tiredness out of his tone. Not fully sure if he achieved the desired effect or not. Most likely not. Alfred knew him better than anyone. Even if Joker would have disagreed with that assessment.
"I can very well see that, sir. Sitting at the computer for a few hours thinking really showcases that fact." Alfred held his usual sarcasm and Batman felt like he was being scolded as a child all over again.
"Somethings are worth pondering." Bruce gave a weak defense.
"Indeed there are. Let's just get to the point for you can go back to it; shall we?" Alfred paused waiting for Batman to respond, when he didn't he continued. "Might I beseech you, who the gentleman you have brought here is? It's not an everyday occurrence that you bring house guests to the cave, Master Bruce."
Batman remained silent for a longer moment than necessary with that particular question. What could he even really give a name to what Jack was to him that would be a plausible explanation to his reckless actions? Telling the truth didn't really come off as the most reliable alternative. It wouldn't quench Alfred's obvious concerns. Giving the information that he optioned accessible would just make the entire predicament worse. He knew Alfred was suspicious already. Not for the correct reasons but that didn't really matter in the grand scheme of things. Didn't make the situation any less complicated than it already was. What could he really even say to diffuse a disaster that was bound to occur one way or another? Also could he simply say a friend? He once called Joker that; just once. When their lives were on the brink of death. Did that still even apply anymore? Again, this wasn't exactly the Joker he was dealing with. Despite their history together when the other man had no recollection of past events. At the same time, he still went out of his way to have coffee with Jack. Went an extra step to ensure the other had survived the night. Even had his damn phone number and spent hours debating calling him.
Jack had helped him in a small but impactful way when Bruce had his own case amnesia. True nothing prevented his return as Batman even with words that seemed meaningless but was far the contrary than ever could be. At the same time he really didn't know Jack on a personal level. Not truly. Not anymore. Acquaintance almost slipped as his response, nonetheless even that was cut short. That wouldn't be the correct answer either. As hard as it was to phrase their current dynamic; Batman went with the blunt truth of it.
"It's complicated." Two words that held more meaning than anything else in the world.
Complicated was the perfect way to describe every single thing that cumulated Batman and Joker's lives. It was the only word in the dictionary that held the appropriate description. Ever since they had met each other nothing between them had been remotely easy. They clashed each other on everything. Ideologies that never could be compatible with each other. A struggle for either one to get a single inch of ground and win the games they played. Striving for a victory that could only ever lead to their deaths by each other's hand. Which almost happened. Now it was a different sense of complication between them. A wary cease fire of sorts. As long as Jack didn't remember his previous life the fragile peace treaty would remain in effect. Not that it made things easier as it sorted its self out with whole other list or problems. A responsibility that now fell on the Batman's shoulders to handle the weight. Burdens only himself would be willing to bare.
"Most things often are regarding you, Master Bruce." Alfred said solemnly after taking a fraction of a time to consider what Batman had informed him.
"You don't need to concern yourself. I have it under control." Batman attempted to placate the elderly man.
"I regret to inform you that's not as reassuring as you may lead yourself into believing." Alfred retorted; quickly.
A beat passed between them in uncomfortable silence. Batman leaned his back against the Bat-mobile. He really didn't have a planned response to that. Knowing anything he said wouldn't even be close enough to derail the concerns his father figure justifiably had. Still he needed to at least try. He couldn't just leave this unresolved. Alfred would be too stubborn for that even when Batman was protecting him. Protecting everyone by doing this alone. No one else would be able to understand the importance of his goals. That keeping this secret would be for everyone's benefit. Not after last time. It was better this way even if he had to swallow down his guilt and self-loathing. Batman was used to doing just that. He could deal with it again.
"I need you to trust me on this one, Alfred."
"I do trust you, sir," Another pause. "Listen, I know that you have your reasons for keeping secrets, Master Bruce. I rarely question your motives as I know you will make the right choice, but I just wish you'd let someone help you once in a while. For my own sake, for I will be able to sleep at night instead of worrying about you. Will you at least tell me why you've felt the need to bring this man here?"
Batman knew he owed the older man somewhat of an explanation. Alfred wouldn't force him to reveal everything if he gave him just enough to satisfy him. It would be cruel of him not to. With a heavy sigh; he relented.
"He helped me out once." The taste of those words feeling bitter in his mouth. Almost chocking him in the instant impulse to deny he even uttered that single sentence. One that he could never take back. A statement that would haunt him he was sure till the day he died.
Joker would have found that statement as the funniest thing in the world. The irony not lost on him. The lunatic always claimed that he wanted to help Batman even with his methods being very distasteful. Constant rants how one day he would make Batman see how much alike they truly were. Joker doing everything in his actions to make that come to reality. The result always pushing Batman closer and closer to the breaking point. He hated having to refer to the Joker in any positive light. It wouldn't be fair to put the blame on Jack for feeling that way. Regardless, that's exactly what he did. Couldn't really prevent himself from doing so. No matter how different Jack and Joker were it was still almost impossible for him to separate the two of them in his mind. History and painful experiences had taught him to never let his guard down. Which only made it harder for him to accept the fact that Jack had helped him at all. A vulnerability that he wished never came forth in the first place.
"Helped you? Care to elaborate?" said Alfred.
"It was shortly before Bloom's attack. Before I got all my memories back. I met him on the outskirts of Gotham and well he brought somethings to my attention even if he didn't realize it. He was just like me..." Batman grimaced at the words, before continuing. "He couldn't remember his past. A victim of the Joker's actions," It wasn't a complete lie. "I found him in trouble and I just couldn't leave him to die. I feel like I owe him." He finished and his tone held that he was done with this conversation. Honestly, it was becoming too strenuous on him.
"I understand, Master Bruce. Just be careful." Was all that Alfred said on the matter.
"I will. I promise." Making a promise he wasn't even sure he could keep giving all that he was dealing with and more specifically who.
"Is there anything you would be needing for your guest?" Alfred asked him.
Batman had to think on that for a few passing moments. He knew medically he had enough in the cave already if the need still arrived. He even provided a new shirt for the man as a necessity. Was there really anything he actually needed? It's not like he planned on having Jack stay here as long as possible. Honestly, the sooner the other man left was probably for the better. An inkling of concern hit him in that moment. Questions that still needed to be answered or at least mannerism that needed to be observed for a small duration of time that he could actually afford to spare. An idea popped into his head at that moment as he made his decision. It wouldn't give him much extra time, but it could be enough to get a better grasp of the situation at hand.
"A small meal would be appreciated. He might be hungry after last night. I'm sure your cooking will go a long way for his recovery." Batman said.
"As you wish, sir. Am I to take it that you won't be eating yourself?" Alfred knew him to well.
"I'll be fine. I'll eat latter. Thank you, Alfred."
"You're a terrible liar, Master Bruce," Alfred said; dryly, "I'll prepare a meal for the gentleman and let you know when it's ready to be served."
The intercom clicked off after that, leaving Batman to his thoughts and way to many conflicting emotions. All he could do was try and regain his balance of the world and stay in this spot for just a little while longer. He'd take the time he needed. He had all the time in the world, nothing was going to go wrong if he took this moment just for himself. A mantra in his head head that he desperately grasped on to. All he needed was a short reprieve from his life and this situation he ran head first in.
Monochrome. The whole world was monochrome. Jack glanced over the vastness that was Gotham City from the rooftops. Not a single shred of color to be found. It left a bitter feeling in his chest. One that he wanted to stomp out as soon as he felt it. Didn't want to focus on how this world made him feel. The hopelessness that etched its way under his skin. A suffocating despair that nothing he could do would change anything. Jack wanted to run away from this type of world. Abandon it or set it aflame. Anything that might bring a spark of life back to his city. This wasn't right. The world shouldn't be like this. Everything felt too dreary; too bland. As if all the merriment had been washed away. Replaced by only a longing for how things used to be. What seemed like could never be again. The lack of color made his eyes hurt. Made his mind feel heavy with a fog. Jack wanted to fix this, but felt powerless to do so.
Where was the color?
Where was the laughter?
Shouldn't someone be fixing this?
Jack stepped closer to the ledge. His mind racing as he tried to piece together what had happened to the city. Green eyes taking notice of the abyss before him. Not even able to see the ground below. It should unnerve him; it didn't. Part of him wondered if he jumped off how long it would take to reach the bottom and paint the concrete below crimson. Perhaps, then the world would finally have some color. A morbid thought that he had to quickly shake off. All he could really take account of was the lack of color in this world and how he wanted that to change. A snicker from his side caught his attention and he turned his head to see a man standing next to him. A man who normally dressed in flamboyant purple suits was now as dull as the world around him. Joker didn't utter a word as he just looked over the monochrome city as Jack did. He noticed there was no smile where there usually was in place. Just a somber look as empty as the world around them. A feeling so surreal it left an ache in his chest. Joker felt to him as out of place as this monochrome world was and even though he despised the deranged murderer a small part of him couldn't help, but feel saddened for him.
Jack couldn't prevent himself, but the thought crept in, if Joker would find those feelings hilarious or if he'd be killed for ever pitying the clown in the first place.
"I wonder if this is how Batsy sees the world without me around to brighten up his day." Joker mused out loud and Jack couldn't deny with the fact he agreed. Couldn't find it in himself to dispute that claim.
"I hope not." Jack admitted. He couldn't imagine seeing the world this bland all the time and he would never wish that on anyone especially not the Batman.
Joker gave a weak chuckle at that. His small smile far from being sincere.
"Hehehe... who am I kidding?... Bat would probably enjoy a world like this. He really is such a broody little ball of angst. He'll deny it, but deep down inside, I know he misses our games. Misses the color I would bring to his life." Joker spoke with a fondness in his tone.
"Then why don't you come back?" The words slipped past his lips before he could think better on them.
Once said it was too late to take back.
Joker casted a glance at the man next to him. A knowing look in his eyes that spoke volumes of what Jack's little slip of the tongue meant. A dangerous form of temptation that wanted to break Jack down until there was nothing left except bloodshed and insanity. At the same time it spoke a promise of safety. That he would never have to concern himself with the problems of the world again if he allowed himself to succumb to the murderers influence. Jack simply couldn't let that happen. Joker sighed and shook his head slightly.
"Do you really want that?" Joker asked, but only received silence in return, so he continued. "Heh, I understand. It's not my time to come back on stage... yet. Soon, but, not now. Bat can wait a little bit longer."
A burst of light caught his attention and distracted him from the conversation. Jack turned his head to see the bright beacon in the sky. A symbol of the Bat more visible than anything else in the world. Jack took a small step closer as much as the ledge would allow him to do so. The image brining a want to embrace it and a pull to go to its call like nothing else mattered. He felt a steady hand on his back that either could push him forward and let him fall off the edge or steady him where he stood. As he gazed at the symbol in the sky Jack wasn't sure which one of those options he wanted most of all. In Joker-like fashion the maniac made the choice for him and before Jack could even prevent it the next thing he knew he was falling forward. The abyss ready to swallow him whole as he prepared his body for the inevitable impact to the ground below.
Jack wondered if this is how he would die. Free falling and he didn't even pack a parachute. It would have been a funny thought if he wasn't so positive that he was about to become a blood stain in a few moments. Faster and faster down he went and he could pick up the sound of laughter all around him. He couldn't breathe, could barely even think. The wind zipping past his face. Jack closed his eyes and waited for the inevitable. He knew he shouldn't have been so careless to let his guard down around the clown. Now he would pay for it with his life. Jack could hear the Joker's laughter growing even louder all around him as he fell. Mocking him for his foolishness. The only comfort he could find is that when he did hit the ground he would never have to deal with the madness that was the Joker again. Not that dying was much better, but he always believed in appreciating the small things that life had to offer. Jack wondered if anyone would miss him when he was gone. As heartbreaking as it was he doubted that anyone would. The inevitable death he had been expecting never came. When he did land; no pain hit him at all. In fact he felt perfectly fine. No broken bones and no blood splatter on impact happened. Green orbs opened; curiously, as he viewed his new environment. Well tried to anyways, as there was not a shred of light to be seen, no matter how hard he looked. Jack slowly and carefully made it to his knees. It was silent just as it was empty around him and that was making him unnerved. Lucky or unfortunately the sensation of being alone was quickly washed away by the sound of footsteps and a deep mocking chuckle.
"What a rush! We should do that more often! All we need is a dashing Knight in Bat armor to catch us and everything will be perfect!" Joker giggled out the words and Jack glanced to his side where he figured the clown must be.
"Glad you had fun," His tone sarcastic. Jack breathed out heavily. Still trying to get the much needed oxygen that was lost to him during the fall. "Why'd you push me, anyways?" He questioned once he caught his breath.
Joker was by his side in an instant. His hand pressed tightly on his shoulder and even if Jack couldn't see him; he was positive the Joker was grinning like the madman he was.
"C'mon, take an educated guess, pal. Why would little ol' me push you off the edge?" A knowing tint of mischief in his sugary voice.
"Because you're insane." Jack responded; dryly.
Joker scoffed and his grip went tighter on Jack's shoulder forcing the other man to wince out; sharply.
"Insanity is just a matter of perspective. What you think of as insane, I think of as perceptive of how the world really is. Now don't play coy. Try and actually figure it out. I can't give you all the answers now, can I? Well I could, but you never ask me nicely." Joker snickered.
"I don't know." Jack let out an exasperated sigh. He was tired of the Joker's games at his expense. Tired of never having his questions answered as the clown just wanted to make his life more difficult.
"Ya know, you used to be a lot more fun." Joker seethed momentarily.
Jack had no idea what the clown meant by that comment. He hardly knew the Joker other than the figment in his mind that wouldn't let him get a day of peace. Regardless, at the same time, could Joker be right? Did the madman know him before he lost his memories? It wasn't a possibility he pondered before, but now when he truly thought about it; he couldn't help, but wonder if that was the case. So much of his previous life had been lost to him. His memories were as easily blown out like a candle that he couldn't grasp how much certainty he should even place on the Joker's words or not. Why did he even see the Joker the way he did in the first place? Nothing made sense in his life and he could tell that the maniac took extreme pleasure in the fact.
"I don't care about who I was before," Jack mumbled so softly he might as well be talking to himself. Wasn't that exactly what he was doing, though? Best not to think too much on it or he was afraid he'd truly lose his mind. "This is who I am now and I don't need your approval on how I conduct my life."
Joker just gave a mocking laugh at Jack's statement. His sadistic amusement was palpable all around them. Leaving the impression that Jack's words held no real weight to captivate the clown into listening to him. It was foolish to ever think the madman would in the first place. One thing could be said about the Joker, he didn't much care for others opinions that weren't his own. It grated on his nerves and chipped away at his thinning patience.
"What's so funny?" Jack couldn't stop himself from snapping out the words.
Joker just laughed even more. That low chuckle of his had an impact behind it that caused Jack's blood to stir. It took far too long for the mirthful maniac to calm himself to give a coherent answer at all.
"Oh. Hehe, nothing much. It just tickles my funny bone how you think that I could ever care about those self-inflicted denials you tell yourself to help you sleep better at night. How you think for an instant that you're even worth caring about in the first place," Joker wheezed out another deep chuckle.
"You're right. You don't need my approval. Because the hilarious thing is, Jackey, is you don't even really exist. That life you claim to have such control over is simply an illusion of your own making. Haha, but, you want to have choices that matter right? You want to feel like you actually have an impact? Well, let's just see how well you do when an option is presented to you. I have a feeling you'll just try to hide away from all those nasty decisions, like you have always done." Joker's tone went downright dangerous at the end. All pretense of amusement slipped away from the murderer.
Where Joker expressed his sadistic desires all Jack could feel was the gnawing feeling of trepidation echoing around his very being. The crushing weight of uncertainty of something he would surely regret. He didn't like where this conversation was going or what Joker's intentions were. He desperately wanted to grasp onto any form of security he could find, however none made itself available to him. Jack tried to reason with himself that this was only in his mind, but the longer he spent in the Joker's presence the harder it became to assert that mindset. Each little push the clown did was fraying away his sanity bit by bit. Jack took a deep breath and tried to steady himself. When he opened his mouth, he was cut off by the two instant lights making their presence known to the darkness. His heart skipped a beat as his green orbs gazed to his left and his right. There under what could be presumed to be a stage light was his only friend Bruce Wayne and on the other side in all his dark glory the Batman himself. Jack looked up at the Joker who now visible to him as well -by the same over light- with a questioning look in his stare.
Joker seemed all too pleased to answer his inquiry by brandishing a knife that was hidden in his sleeve. Crimson lips spreading into a cruel grin as pools of acidic green orbs stared right back into his very soul. Jack didn't know what to say. How to express the dread that he was feeling as he took in the glint of the blade just begging to be stained crimson. Regardless, it didn't seem to matter as Joker was perfectly fine with having a one-sided conversation.
"I can tell by that expression you're just dying to know what's going on. Arentcha, pal? Well it's quite simple really. We'll be playing a little game. The rules aren't complex. All you have to do is make a choice. Which one do you want to keep alive?" Joker pointed at the Bat. His pupils expanding ever so slightly. "My darling playmate with an adorable temper problem. Or," he tilted his head towards Bruce. "The insufferable little play boy with too much time on his hands, during the day." Joker sneered at the last past. "It is all up to you, Jack!"
Jack felt paralyzed in his spot. His body going stock still at the words spoken to him and their deadly intent. His heart racing in his chest, threatening to burst out of his rib cage. Frenzied glances towards the other three in the room. Looking for a way out of this predicament that Joker thrusted upon him. Fingers gripping tightly into the fabric of his pants. Joker couldn't be serious could he? The clown wouldn't actually follow through with this? This must be all some sort of sick joke? It must be? Right? Acidic green eyes told him a different story than what was playing around in his mind. Joker was deathly serious, more serious than Jack had ever seen him act before. He couldn't even comprehend the reasons why Batman or Bruce was just standing there. Waiting for the Joker to make his move. That didn't seem right. Shouldn't they be fighting back? Shouldn't Jack be fighting against this insanity?
"I don't want to play this game." His voice was desperate as he searched Joker's gaze for a shred of mercy that would never be found in the likes of the homicidal maniac.
Joker squatted down to meet Jack on eye level as he tapped the knife against his chin. The clown was silent for a moment as he simply observed the other man. Acidic green eyes holding an intensity in them that terrified Jack to no end. When Joker did finally address him it felt like he stabbed the knife straight into Jack's heart by the words alone.
"I know the choice is a difficult one. I can sympathize with you there," Jack wanted to scoff at the obvious lie, but remained silent. "Regardless, you have to come to a decision. You can't run from this. Can't escape to that little bench of yours and wish away all your problems. This is your fault after all and as sad as it is for me to say, buddy. You can't have them both in your life. Trust me on that. You have to choose between them. Decide which one is more important to keep around. I know who I'd pick, but it's not really up to me anymore now, is it?" Joker's tone went eerily gentle at the end.
How could he honestly decide something like this?
Why would Joker even put him through this?
A part of Joker's statement bothered him more than the sadistic choice of a game.
What did the clown mean when he said this was Jack's fault?
Jack felt on the verge of an anxiety attack. His breathing became more ragged the longer time passed by. His body shaking like a leaf. There was no possible way he could make a decision. His green eyes darted to the Bat. Hoping that the man draped in black would do something about this. Begging him with his stare as if his will alone could make Batman act. No matter how the desperation ate away at him nothing happened. There was nothing he could do to prevent the Joker from having his sick idea of a fun time. His heart sank when he turned his head and looked at Bruce. The one person he wished could be his friend. Who might very well be the only person in the world who understood him? The two of them having a connection that went deeper than he could ever fathom. Their meeting at the bench that sparked an engulfing need -almost obsession- within him to be accepted by the other. He knew who Joker wanted him to pick. It was obvious in the narrow stare the murderer was giving him. Joker would always choose to keep his favorite playmate alive. Batman gave the clown purpose and a reason for existing. Jack realized then that he could understand where Joker was coming from. When it came to Bruce, he felt the same way as Joker did for Batman.
Perhaps, as fucked up as it was and as much as a bitter pill to swallow the Joker and Jack weren't so different from each other.
"Don't hurt Bruce. Just leave him alone. Please." Jack hated himself when the words left his lips. Hated the defeat they held to Joker's sick whims. Despised that the madman would make him choose this in the first place.
It wasn't like Jack had anything against Gotham's protector. On the contrary, he could easily see the appeal of obsession the Joker had with the Bat. Despite that reasoning. When all was said and done, he just couldn't let Bruce get hurt in the end. He wouldn't be able to live with himself. Didn't even want to think what would happen if he was left alone in the world without his only friend? Jack was positive Joker felt the same way about Batman.
Joker tsked at him as he stood up suddenly. Shaking his head in disapproval. Jack honestly wondered if he would be killed instead just for uttering his choice of Bruce's life over the Dark Knights. Good. He thought bitterly. It would be better if it was him over those two any day. He'd gladly accept the consequences if that meant he could save either man from the maniac. Not that Joker would ever give him the chance. It wasn't in his nature to take pity on the suffering of others.
"How disappointingly predictable. You didn't even hesitate, did you? Should have guessed you'd pick him." Joker muttered; barely above a whisper. Jack could only hang his head down to avoid the absolute hatred that was in those acidic green orbs; all directed at him.
Silence befell them as Jack awaited the Joker's next move. He welcomed any minuscule second of peace. Clung to it in a hope that this would be over before it really began. Not knowing how many more of these mind games he could even take. Joker blamed him for all of this and Jack couldn't even figure out what was so awful that he had done to have Joker keep messing with him like this. He knew well enough that Joker wanted to break apart his mind. The clown had informed him that much. Even if he could have learned that easily enough without that information. The real question came down as to why? What couldn't he remember that was causing all of this shit to happen in his life? It felt like a puzzle he just couldn't solve no matter how hard he tried. All he knew was that he wanted it to end. To finally be left alone from the murderers taunts and games. Jack just wanted to live a quiet existence at the bench and feed the starving fish while having Bruce's pleasant company when he could. When the small reprieve was broken the words that came forth chilled him down to the bone.
"Welp, I hate to inform ya this, but since you can't seem to even know what's best for you then I'll have to deal with this little problem myself, won't I?" Joker turned on his heel as the footsteps resonated a panic within Jack's heart.
"Wait! What are you doing?!" Jack's head snapped up so fast he was sure he'd have whip lash. Green eyes watched in growing tension as Joker made his way over to Bruce.
Joker didn't care to answer him. All he did was continue walking until he stepped behind the only friend Jack had in the world. Joker grabbed raven hair lightly and turned Bruce's head to the side as he placed the knife to the man's throat. Piercing acidic green orbs staring holes into Jack's own as he did so. Jack's breath caught in his throat. He wanted to stop this. To prevent the clown from acting on his obvious threat. Despite all his will power he couldn't even move from his spot on the floor. It felt like gravity itself was going against him. Tears threatened to fall, but he held them back. Refusing to give the Joker the satisfaction.
"Don't. Do. It." He breathed out. "Stop. Wait! Please! No. No. No." Jack pleaded despite the futility of the situation.
"You said it was my choice. That I could only keep one of them alive. If someone has to die. Kill me instead. Bruce doesn't deserve this. He's-" Jack was cut off by the snicker coming from the homicidal maniac.
"Oh, Hehehahahahe, Jackey boy, don't be so melodramatic. It's not like you even know him that well, do you?" Joker gave him a knowing look as if there was a secret that Jack didn't know about. Joker nuzzled his head against the back of Bruce's own. "You can't even see what dear ol' Brucie keeps hidden from you. Can't even see what's underneath this mask of his. It's really quite pathetic how long it's taking you to figure everything out, but, that's okay. That's just fine. Here let me help you. That's what friends do for each other." Joker purred out sweetly.
Before Jack could even protest the knife slit right across Bruce's throat. Crimson splashing out of Bruce's neck and onto Jack's white suit. Giving color to his attire with the life supply of the only person he ever held in high regard. He didn't even realize when he had started running. Didn't even comprehend how quickly he got to their side as he held Bruce's body close to his. His white gloves staining red as he tried to slow the bleeding even if it was to no avail. Glazed over blue orbs gazed up at him as enticing as the ocean even as life drifted from them. He couldn't even hear his choked sobs the wracked his body or the please leaving his lips. He never wanted this to happen. Not to Bruce. Never to him. All he could notice over his life falling apart in his very arms was the Joker's laughter and the maniac's taunts that this was all Jack's fault. Which wasn't this his fault? If only he stayed away then none of this would have transpired. Joker wouldn't have thought twice to go after his friend. A deeply rooted bitter chuckle escaped him, joining in with the laughter around the abyss. The irony of his life presenting itself as a sick demented joke. That no matter how hard he tried to do the right thing. To make the correct choices, it only lead to the punchline that was death of the one he cared most about. A simple reality that was so cruel that he couldn't help, but laugh right along with the Joker.
Jack awoke with a start as sweat drenched the black shirt he was allowed to borrow earlier that night. His body shooting straight up like dynamite. His heartbeat pounded in his chest as he tried to recall where exactly he was. Fingers clenching the black bed sheet that was over him. All he could think about was that he needed to find Bruce as quick as possible. That perhaps there might still be time to help save his life. He needed to move. Needed to hurry. Time was of the essence. If only he could find the Bat then everything would be as right as rain. Batman would know what to do. Surely, Batman wouldn't let Bruce perish, after all the Dark Knight had saved Jack's life and he was just a no body in Gotham. Bruce was worth more to this city than Jack could ever be.
Batman would never let the Joker win.
His body felt heavy as he slowly blinked away the last remnants of the drossy effects of the sedative the Bat had given him. Green eyes glanced down as he held his palms up to small light that the containment cell had to offer. There was no crimson to be found and yet he couldn't shake off the nauseating feeling that his nightmare left him in. He had to keep reassuring himself that it had only been a dream. That his friend was fine. That Joker hadn't killed Bruce and Jack didn't prevent it. It was only a dream. Nothing more and nothing less. Despite, trying to look on a more positive note; his body involuntarily shivered.
It had felt too real for his own comfort.
Felt like a promise for a future to come that he certainly wanted to prevent.
Jack didn't want to admit it to himself and downright tried to deny it, however, deep down he knew this was just the beginning.
That the Joker wasn't finished with him just yet.
Far from it actually.
Like clockwork he heard a giggle from the corner of the small room. Green eyes narrowed down at the maniac who leaned contently against the concrete wall. Joker just sneered at him and gave an amused waved when he was spotted by the other. A groan left Jack as he brushed away his brown bangs that were stuck to his forehead. Running his hand through his hair again and again as he tried to regain his bearings. Of course, Joker would be there to taunt him when he woke up. Why wouldn't he be? The madman seemed to feed off his torment like the clown had done to so many before him.
"Go away. I don't want to deal with you." Jack growled out in animosity. He doubted Joker would listen. The madman had proved to him over and over that he didn't care for Jack's demands or opinions. His nightmare had established that fact. Regardless, it wouldn't stop him from going against the Joker's expectations of him.
I won't let him break me. I won't let him win. Jack thought to himself to the amusement of the figment of his mind.
Joker gave a feigned frown at Jack's words, though even he could tell that the jester was holding back from laughing.
"Aww, don't be like that. You're breaking my heart over here," Joker whined and only received a hateful glare for his mocking. The madman could no longer hold back his grin. "Don't tell me you're still sour about what happened in dreamy land? Honestly, pal, get a sense of humor already. There's simply no need to be as serious as a Bat, hehe. It takes years off your life and I'm sure you don't want that now, do you? Not like poor little orphan boy, whoops. Was that too soon? Hehehe. Gosh darn it, look at that. Now I've made you mad, haven't I? It was the too soon part, wasn't it?" The madman burst into full blown laughter at that point.
Meanwhile Jack had already gotten up. His legs were still shaky from the drugs, but he didn't allow this to deter him from his endeavor of getting as far away from the Joker as he possibly could. Even if that might not be a possibility, damn it, he was going to attempt it. There was no way he was going to just sit around and listen to the clown's ramblings. Especially not when the topic involved his night terror of Bruce's murder. He could still feel the fresh blood on him and that was enough to sicken him as it was. Jack had only managed to just get out of the containment cell, before the Joker was right in front him. Jack was startled and against his better judgement took a tentative step back. Joker raised a brow at that, but focused his attention on other things around them. Specifically the absent presence of Gotham's most infamous Bat.
Jack took notice of this peculiarity as well. Green eyes glancing around the vastness of the Bat-cave. Not spotting the Dark Knight in sight. Wondering exactly where Batman might have run off too. He was slightly thankful that the Gotham Bat wasn't around. Jack wouldn't even know where to begin with explaining away to other man why he was talking to himself in the first place. Still, that begged the question where was the Batman anyways? He doubted that he would have been left alone to his own devices in the Bats base of operations. It left Jack feeling slightly uneasy as if the Bat could come out at a moment's notice. Joker on the other hand seemed too thrilled by this turn of events if his ear splitting grin was any indication.
"Do you know what I'm thinking, Jackey?" Joker couldn't hide his excitement as he leaned back and forth on his heel.
Without skipping a beat. "If it's mass murder then you're on your own there." Jack responded, his expression deadpanned and Joker chuckled and wagged a purple gloved finger at him.
"Aren't you just silly? No that's for latter. Before we have that type of fun, I think for the time being we should have a little look around, Batsy's wonderful dank abode." Joker suggested.
A pause.
An expectant stare from the acidic green orbs filled with madness and eagerness.
A beat.
"That's a terrific idea, Joker. In fact it's the best one you've had yet," Joker beamed at Jack's words only for the other man to continue. "If your goal is to end up dead from a very pissed off Batman." Jack finished; dryly.
Joker blinked five times. A small stretch of silence between them before the Joker clutched his sides and started to laugh. Echoing off the walls around him that Jack was surprised Batman didn't show up right then and there to investigate.
"Hahahahheheho. Wouldn't that be a fun outcome! It would be to die for just to see that happen. Hehehe. But, we both know my playmate doesn't kill. Not yet, anyways. Hehe. No matter how much my little Bat wants to."
Temptation crept its way into his mind even if caution warned him against acting on the very notion. Curiosity was a deadly influence and yet he couldn't help, but want to follow through with it. Joker seemed to read his mind and nodded in approval.
"C'mon, Kiddo, it's not like you'll ever have a chance to do this again. Ah, just live a little why dontcha." Joker pressured.
Jack wanted to fight against the clown's statement. However, the idea was just to appeasing to pass up. Plus, he reasoned with himself that Joker wouldn't stop pestering him until he gave in. Besides, if Batman found him snooping he could just say he was looking for the Bat. Hopefully the Bat would believe him. Jack hadn't given off any impression that he could honestly pose much of a threat. This was harmless enough, wasn't it? With a heavy sigh he stared at the Joker, trying to muster as much confidence that he could.
"Fine, we will do things your way and take a look around. But, only for a few minutes or until Batman shows up. Whatever, comes first." said Jack.
Acidic green eyes gleamed and Joker quickly grabbed Jack by the arm.
"I knew you'd come around to my way of thinking, eventually. C'mon let's get going before a brooding secret keeping Bat ruins our fun."
Jack had no choice, but to follow the murderous clown who was all too eager to go exploring. Which is how it exactly went for the next few minutes. Joker pulling Jack around by his arm until the clown got bored of doing so and would just stay a couple feet in front of the other man. Joker was ecstatic with everything they saw, while Jack on the other hand kept looking over his shoulder just in case the Bat would show up. Despite Joker's commentary and skipping to look at whatever he could, the Batman never did appear. As nerve wracking as the experience was it didn't take all that long for Jack to begrudgingly admit that Joker's plan was a little fun. He knew it was wrong to be snooping around the Bats place, but at the same time that's what gave this endeavor a certain thrill he'd never experienced before. Even a small smile graced his lips. That was until they both stopped on one of the platforms in the Bats cave that displayed Batman's gadgets. In the center was another Bat-suit that looked even more high tech than the one he'd seen Batman in earlier that night. Jack couldn't help the slight frown that came when he saw that there was no purple on the inside fabric of the cape this time around. He decided he preferred Batman's suit he saw earlier over this one. Even if it might not be as high tech for what the Bat does night after night. There was just too much Black for this suit and it reminded Jack too much of his dream of a world without color. His gaze glanced at the walls that displayed plenty of Batman's gadgets that he used in his arsenal. Not that he could place what each one did, but he knew they were impressive. When green eyes gazed at the Batarang's that had a few missing that's when Joker brought up his ridiculous idea that caused Jack to shudder at the implication such an action would invoke.
"Wowzers, look at all these neat toys, Batsy just leaves laying around. Perhaps, we should take one of these gems for ourselves? It would be his fault anyways with Bat just leaving them out in the open. It's just asking to be stolen. Heh. I mean I used to have a huge collection back in the day. Whatcha say pal?" Joker looked mesmerized as he fondly stroked one of the batarang's on the display case.
Stealing from the Dark Knight did not sound appealing what so ever. In fact it sounded downright deranged and incredibly dangerous. Just exactly an insane idea the Joker would come up with. Retribution would surely be needed if he went through with what the Joker had said. Jack gave the Joker a look of disbelief and that only managed to make the clowns grin widen.
"No, we aren't doing that," Jack asserted stiffly. "Wait. How'd you even get ahold of any of Batman's gadgets in the first place?" Jack couldn't help the curiosity etching into his tone.
No doubt it was a naive question. The Joker had been fighting Batman for years. At the same time it was hard to believe that Gotham's protector wouldn't retrieve his tools in his arsenal, let alone let the Joker keep anything in the first place.
"That's a story for another day. What's most important is I don't have them anymore and now is the most opportune time to start collecting again. So, don't be a spoiled sport and just take one already." Joker's raspy voice went deeper at the end. His irritation flashing in pools of obsession in his acidic green orbs.
Jack shook his head and stood his ground. "You can't be serious? Did you even stop to think what would happen to me if Batman found out I stole from him? Unlike you, that's a consequence I'm not really wanting to risk." Jacks tone held no room for argument. Not that it perturbed Joker in the slightest. The madman's grin became more strained with Jack's refusal. Like an explosive ready to be unleashed if he didn't get his way.
Joker waved his hand dismissively and growled out his words. "Cut the moral act that you're pretending to have. We both know that you want to have a reminder for your time spending with my Bat. How could you not? This is the most excitement you've ever had in your life."
He couldn't help, but absentmindedly scratch at his abdomen. Feeling the stitches even through the fabric of his borrowed shirt. He'd already would have a permanent reminder of this night in the form of fresh scars. The pain of the stab wounds had already subsided a little while ago. Jack could barely remember when the knife actually went in to him again and again. The more he thought back on the incident the blurrier the image was in his mind. All he knew at the time was that he didn't feel like himself. Not really. It wasn't until Batman showed up that he was able to regain control of himself. Batman had saved his life and he also had a feeling that he was saved from a worse fate than muggers as well. Jack couldn't not be more thankful towards the Dark Knight for all he had done since he found him in the alleyway earlier that night. Stealing from the man just seemed like a horrible way to pay that kindness back.
However, Joker was right in some ways, the more that green eyes gazed upon the Bats arsenal. A part of him did want to have a more tangible reminder than the scars could ever be. A way to look back on the events and never forget. Even if he was sure forgetting was an impossibility. Joker seemed to be able to sense the rising pressure of reluctance in Jack and grinned even wider. Knowing in the end he'd get his way, no matter what protests Jack could ever come up with to excuse away his desires.
"Besides, it's not like my darling is ever going to find out. Okay. Maybe he will. Still, dont'cha worry, pal. He won't be hearing it from me, that's for sure. I'll keep your dirty little secret." Joker sealed his lips, imitating to be locking them shut and throwing away the key.
Despite, acknowledging how awful a decision this was, Jack abandoned his restraint from acting with his better judgement. Batman might not even notice as there was already a few of his gadgets missing from the display as it was. Jack wasn't the best at being deceiving, he knew that, still if he would get asked about it later, perhaps Joker could help him out with that predicament if the need arises. Not that he was very optimistic that Joker could ever be more helpful than toxic for his well-being. Glancing over his shoulder quickly, expecting any moment to be caught, when nothing happened, shaky hands quickly grabbed one of the batarangs on the wall. Joker watched him silently as Jack held the tool in his hand. His thump caressing the tips lightly and he could already tell how deadly they could be without proper care or precision when thrown. A realization that only made him more impressed by the Batman than when he saw him in all his glory earlier that night. He couldn't help, but wonder how long the man must have trained himself to never once make a mistake. For no other word it was just simply perfection of self-control that was rare for most people. However, Batman wasn't like most people if he was then he would have never been able to captivate so much obsession from the Joker in the first place. A small smile grew on his face as he pocketed the weapon of the Bats in his pants pocket. Fortunately, for Jack it fit perfectly. Just small enough not be noticed or to pose any risks to himself with walking. Green eyes glanced up at the Joker who looked absolutely pleased and his smile started to fade.
Contemplating with himself right then and there to undo his actions just to spite the maniac who haunted him day and night. Joker didn't even hesitate at squashing that thought away as he started to walk away at a leisurely place. Only stopping to glance over his shoulder when Jack wasn't following after him.
"If you don't want to get caught with your hand in the cookie jar, ya might want to move it. Besides, we have so many more sights to see." Joker continued walking with that said and Jack gave one last glance back at the display of the Bats and followed after the clown.
Their next destination seemed to be more of a sick parody that Gotham City had created. Countless, displays of various criminals -personal items- that the Batman had fought over the years. Not limited to a giant Joker card and even a giant coin. It never occurred to Jack that the Batman would be much of a collector and he was reminded that, perhaps, Joker and the Bat were more alike than he'd like to admit. After all, Joker claimed to have had a collection of his own and Batman apparently had something quite similar just more in quantity. Joker was busy fawning over his own toys that the Bat had collected from his fights with the Joker. Stating quite loudly how this was proof of the Dark Knight's love for their dance and fondness for Joker while not taking into account at all the other stuff Batman had from other criminals. Jack just remained silent, not adding to the one sided conversation. It wasn't until he turn his head and something caught his gaze that stopped him in his tracks. Taking his breath away and quickening his heartbeat. Joker went dead silent as he went to Jacks side and they both stared straight ahead.
A single glass display case off to the side. Almost unnoticeable compared to everything else the Batman owned. Seemingly insignificant, but held a greater weight with its presence that it stirred something deeper within Jack's very being. Deep crimson glinted in the light, its very presence ominous to the man.
Calling him forward as a surge of Deja-vu hit him. Memories he couldn't place wanting to crawl its way from the fog of his mind. He was again reminded that he shouldn't be snooping when the Bat wasn't in sight, but he couldn't find the means to care. As he stopped in front of the glass case, green eyes glanced at the content inside. A helmet; a single red helmet. Its importance ringed out to him and yet he couldn't place the reasons why. Everything about the helmet screamed at him that he needed to remember it. That it held the secrets that were lost to him so long ago. All he needed to do was put the pieces together and the picture would finally become clear. Joker stood next to him, however, the clown kept his gaze averted to the ground. Not that Jack paid much attention to the murderer at his side. Joker seemed to hold no weight compared to the significance of the item in front of him. Jack reached a hand forward and his fingers splayed against the glass. A shock of familiarity went through him. There was just something about the red helmet that demanded his intrigue. He didn't know who it belonged to, yet there was an inkling that wasn't exactly true.
It felt like it belonged to him.
Once.
But.
That was impossible.
Right?
Jack could see his distorted reflection through the smooth surface of the crimson helmet. He wanted to truly touch it, but the glass prevented him from doing so.
His breaths came out slow as he closed his eyes to try and focus on the importance he felt this small item had on him.
'Heh, It's you under there, isn't it? My little vigilante' an echo of words long since passed washed over him.
Jack could swear he smelt smoke all around him. Could feel the ground he stood on give way under his feet. Feeling his grip start to loosen as something darker was going to come forth. As if at any second the tides of balance would shift.
'Come on! Now! It's over' Jack could hear a deep voice in the back of his mind.
'Ha! Wouldn't you like to think so?' Another voice that sounded too familiar. Too personal for comfort.
'No, see. It's only just beginning.' A cruel promise. One that Jack felt had come true.
The phantom sensation that his skin was burning hit him at full force. A gasp escaped his lips and yet he couldn't move. Couldn't open his eyes to calm himself. His face pulled into a grimace. An agony he never felt before distorting the truth of where he was. Placing him in a past he could barely comprehend. Jack couldn't pull himself away from the thoughts. Didn't have a life line to grab onto as he was succumbing deeper and deeper into the abyss. Was this what insanity felt like? It must be. All he could focus on was the feeling that his mind was going to shatter. The burning sensation growing in intensity. He couldn't stop it. Couldn't make it end. Jack felt like he was drowning. As if he took a single breath his inside would burn away as well. That he could never reach the surface in time to prevent any more irreversible damage. His mind demanded him to move. That if he didn't he would die. That there would be no escape. Psychically or mentally. Involuntarily in his efforts to get away, he jumped back from the glass display case; only for his back to connect with something rough and stable.
Jack didn't know what he had just bumped right into and when he turned around abruptly, vertigo sensations threatened to make him fall over. Except, he didn't. Someone didn't let him.
The movement shocked him out of his recollections as green eyes opened wide with panic. The experience slowly crawling it way to the darker corners of his mind to be forgotten all over again. He turned his head frantically trying to regain his bearings of his locations and a slow steady relief washed over him as it became knowledge he was still in the Bat-cave. His breathing slowly calming down as the anxiety attack left him. Jack heard a distinct voice talking to him and he figured it must have been the Joker mocking him. When his blurry vision saw a flash a purple that assumption had almost been confirmed. Almost. Until he felt a slight tightening grip on his shoulder that forced him to be more aware of his surroundings.
"Are you alright?" The voice asked again; concern leaking through, causing Jack to look up.
It clicked right then and there who he had must have bumped into in his panic to get away from the overwhelming sensation that took hold of him.
Batman.
It was Batman standing in front of him.
Batman who had pulled him back to reality when he felt like everything was falling apart.
Who had unknowingly saved him when it mattered most.
A tight smile graced his features and he noticed the minuscule sigh of relief that came from the man draped in black. The hand on his shoulder was pulled away; stiffly. Jack only then realized he hadn't answered the man's inquiry of him and rubbed the back of his head; awkwardly. Trying to dissipate the remaining tension in his body.
"Yes, I'm fine." It was an obvious lie, but thankfully the Bat didn't call him out on it. Instead Batman seemed to have other matters to discuss.
"What are you doing here?" The question was tense, but short.
Jack couldn't stop the small nervous chuckle that left him, not helping ease the other man's concern in the least. He should have figured the Bat would come searching for him sooner or later. This place belonged to the other man after all and Jack doubted the man got many visitors to not notice when one disappeared. Still, how the question was worded couldn't help, but bring some humor to tension that could be cut through with a knife. Or, the stolen batarang in his pocket. Those were pretty sharp as well. It could easily get the job done.
"Heh. Don't you remember? You came to my rescue and brought me here like the hero you are and I was the much needed damsel in distress." It meant to come out as joking, yet seemed to have the opposite effect on Batman. If the even more stiff body language of the Bat was of any indication. Jack wondered if others would be able to pick up on the others mannerisms as easily as he could.
"That's not what I meant-" Batman's tone went deep a certain darkness hidden under the surface.
Jack cut him off. Wanting to avoid any misunderstandings that might form between them.
"Relax. It was just my poor attempt at a joke. Heh. Sorry, guess comedy isn't my strong suit." Alright he had definitely been spending too much time around Joker for one life time.
Speaking of Joker.
Jack took the moment of tense silent between them to cast a quick look around, only to discover that Joker was nowhere to be found.
Odd.
He would have expected Joker to be thrilled to see the Batman again. Despite that after Jack's little break down it seemed Joker didn't want to show himself.
Not that Jack would complain.
All he could hope for was that it would be permanent.
It was wishful thinking, but he'd take as much of a reprieve as was given to him.
Right now, he'd deal with the present which consisted of more time spent in Batman's company it would seem.
Another thing that he would never dare utter any complaint about. Jack felt safer around the other man and after what just happened, he'd gladly accept that form of security with a smile on his face.