Diana stood back for a few moments to take in the scene happening before her. Bruce Wayne was surrounded by all the boys and girls from the Thomas and Martha Wayne Home for the Children and was peppered with questions by them all. She was entertained watching Bruce struggling to answer all of the questions being asked. She actually chuckled a little watching this man that had seemingly captivated all of the young children from this house. They all acted as though they knew this man before them quite well. She wondered if that was actually the case. She knew that Bruce Wayne was a major contributor to most charitable areas around Gotham, and he spearheaded the Martha Wayne Foundation that had been started by his mother years ago. One of the caregivers noticed Diana watching Bruce and approached her. "You must be special." She said to Diana.

Diana turned to look at the caregiver. "What makes you say that?" She asked.

"Well Mr. Wayne has never brought any of his other dates here before. It's usually just him when he comes here." The caregiver explained as she too began to watch Bruce interacting with the children. "They love it when he comes to visit."

Diana returned her focus to Bruce and the children again. "It appears that they do enjoy Bruce being here. How often does he visit?"

"Usually once a month." The caregiver answered. "The children all dream to grow up and be the next Bruce Wayne. Seeing a billionaire orphan makes them all believe that they can one day be that too."

Diana looked at Bruce a little more closely. This was apparently another layer that Bruce for some reason kept hidden away from the profile he'd created as a celebrity. Sure everyone knew how much he spent on charities, but how many people actually knew just how much of his own personal time he spent being an integral part of it as well? Judging from all the information there was available out there to suggest about him, probably only a select few Diana deduced.

Once the children began to settle down, Bruce signaled for Diana to join him amongst the children. She walked over and greeted the children as Bruce offered introductions. After a few minutes of being peppered with questions herself, one of the caregivers informed the children that it was time to head outside to play. Bruce and Diana followed them all out to the back of the building. Bruce spotted a picnic table off to the side of the backyard area and walked over to it. He opened the basket that he'd been carrying to whole time and set out plates, silverware, and some covered dishes that Alfred had apparently prepared that morning. There was a pasta salad along with some soft buttery croissant rolls. In another dish was some strawberries and cool whip mixed with whipped cream cheese and some chocolate chip cookies. It all looked absolutely mouth watering, and Diana quickly took a sample of each item while Bruce was putting the food on both of their plates. Diana closed her eyes and took in all the flavors from the food, she almost moaned in pleasure from the assault on her taste buds. "This is all delicious Bruce." Diana said as she dipped another strawberry into the whipped goodness. "Thank you for suggesting this, and I will have to remember to thank Alfred for the wonderful food."

"I'm glad that you enjoyed it." Bruce responded. "I'm sure Alfred will enjoy hearing your compliments."

Diana looked around quickly and noticed that they were all alone at this point. It might be the only opportunity she had to be alone with him. "Bruce, is it alright if I asked you something?" She asked with a hopeful look.

"I suppose so." He answered cautiously.

"I'm sure you're aware that I've researched you quite a bit." Diana started. "I have to say that I find it hard to believe that you are the type of person that the media has portrayed you to be. You've been attentive towards only me at times, and one of the care providers told me that you haven't brought any other dates with you when you come to visit here."

Bruce smiled. "I'm sorry Diana, but I didn't hear a question in there."

"Which one is your mask?" She asked.

Bruce was shocked by her question, but he tried to just shrug it off. 'What do you mean Diana?" He asked.

"I'd like to know." Diana said. "Is how you're being around me the real you or is it the man that I've read about? I'd like to know if you are putting up an act just because you are trying to impress me. I know that in the very least you are more intelligent than you allow yourself to be portrayed."

Bruce wasn't sure how to answer the question. In some ways he was both men and more, but in other ways he had two masks and didn't know who he really was inside anymore. He only knew that he had actually enjoyed Diana's company. He had so few true friends in his life, and having Diana as one of them was in itself a blessing for him. He soon realized that the silence was beginning to make things awkward. "Diana, it's hard for me to explain." He started to answer as he rubbed the back of his neck trying to think of a way to explain this. "I don't know what all you've found out about me or my life, but I can't say in total honesty that there are some facets to each that are true about me."

Diana wasn't satisfied with that answer. "Please don't hide things from me Bruce. As a friend you shouldn't try to keep things from me."

"Ok Diana let me try to explain." Bruce was thinking on his feet at the moment seeking for an acceptable answer. "Out there in the public eye, everyone wants to have a piece of Bruce Wayne. Just because I'm a rich kid, they've thrown me in as a sort of celebrity, and that means all of the media and gossip mongers are looking for anything at all that they can exploit to bring a celebrity figure down. In my experience, it's so hard to differentiate who you can trust or not in that world. So I decided to give them their stories rather than have them digging into things such as the past with my parents." Bruce took a deep breath as he watched her expression telling him to continue. "I know it sounds strange but I just really want to be a normal person, and if I were that in public, then someone would either fabricate stories based on pure fiction or take anything that they can and flip it around. By being who I am out in public, it gives those types the materials they want, and I don't mind giving that to them if in return I can have any moments of peace."

Diana took in his explanation for a moment. "It doesn't sound that strange actually." Diana said. "Being a super hero as they call us, we've all also been stuck in stories that are untrue. I don't understand why people will make up a story from nothing. It seems quite disrespectful and dishonest."

Bruce smirked. "So then I take it that its possible I don't have any competition from Superman as all the papers say?"

"Kal and I are the best of friends, and there is nothing to worry about with him." Diana responded playfully as she noticed the smirk. "You may have to worry about Flash though."

Bruce laughed at that response. "I'll take my chances then. After all, you're here with me instead of with him."

Bruce and Diana finished their small meals and filled the basket back up with the remaining food and dishes they'd used. They continued with the playful banter all the way back to Bruce's car. Bruce handed Alfred the basket, and he stowed it away in the trunk again as Bruce was saying his goodbyes to Diana before she called in to be teleported back to the Watchtower. Diana gave Bruce a hug and thanked him for spending time with her. They promised each other that they would do something like this again in the near future before Diana disappeared in a bright white light.

Alfred had a grin on his face that told Bruce he would likely regret the discussion that Alfred obviously had in mind for the drive back to the manner. There was little he could do at this point to deter the old man once he was set on his course of action. Alfred would get his questions answered one way or another. Even as an adult, Alfred had his means to get Bruce to do as requested.

Diana arrived on the Watchtower platform to the sight of Shayera standing at the teleporter panel. Needless to say Shayera was no longer interested in what she was originally doing as soon as she saw the look on her Amazon friend's face. Diana walked out of the transporter room, but Shayera was hot on her tail. By the time Diana had reached her personal quarters and opened her door, Shayera was within arm's reach of her. "So, had a better time than you expected with a man Princess?" She tried to pry.

"It was a very pleasant experience." Diana responded as she made her way over to her alter. "I think that Bruce and I are becoming very good friends."

"Friends?" Shayera questioned. "The look on your face says otherwise Di."

"I'm not sure that I follow you." Diana responded.

"Let's just say that if you are feeling the way your body language and that silly grin on your face indicates, then your Amazon heritage would definitely be concerned." Shayera explained. "I'm proud of you princess. You should broaden your horizons to more than just what has been taught by and to your people for thousands of years. So, care to share the details of your date with the billionaire bachelor of Gotham?"

Diana went into details of how her date went with Bruce. She described all of the information that she had learned at the museum, and then went into details about the surprise stop at the boys and girls home established in Bruce's parents' names. Shayera remained quiet as she listened intently to the details. This Bruce Wayne had certainly been smooth in his approach of Diana. She'd spoken with John about things that he had said to Diana in front of her regarding his thoughts on the man that had approached and danced with the Amazon princess. The way John described Bruce Wayne would have made her turn away from him as soon as he approached. She would certainly never have danced with that type of man, but if Diana was correct in her description then perhaps there was more to the man than John actually knew about. After all Diana had personal experience and John hadn't even met the man until the charity event. Personal experience always trumped hearsay, and that caused her to lean her opinion of the situation towards Diana for the time being.

Diana was struggling to hide the smile that was firmly planted on her face. While Shayera could tell from the stories that she'd had fun, it was her demeanor that read more into just how much fun she'd had. Shayera was glad for her as Diana was still somewhat new to the world. She having only been an active part aside from Themyscria, it was good to know that Diana was gaining a new friend. Perhaps she would travel to the Earth more often than just for missions as well. It was rather confining in the Watchtower if you stayed there too long unless you were J'onn it seemed. Diana lived there and spent a great deal of time there too. While Shayera lived there in her own quarters, she still had many outlets to get her away if she needed to. She hoped that Diana's new acquaintance would provide that same type of outlet.

~~ Building outside of Gotham ~~

"Are you ready to strike and take care of the detective?" Ra's al Ghul asked. "I have made all the preparations to keep any outsiders from interfering, and I am growing weary from having to wait."

"My investigation is complete." The large man answered. "I am now waiting until the Batman is isolated from his apprentices. My plan should begin in the very near future, and when I am finished with him, you won't have to worry about Batman again."

"Do what you must to incapacitate him." Ra's stated. "Only kill him if you must. I have other plans for the detective once I've made my move in this world."

"As long as your payments come through, I will follow through with your request." The large man conceded. "Although I do wonder how you intend to keep this Justice League from interrupting me or you once the Bat is dealt with."

"The detective has done the lion's share of that work already." Ra's explained. "My investigation into the Justice League has shown that the detective keeps them at arm's length, especially in his city. That should give you all the time you need if you are as skilled as your reputation describes. As for myself, without the detective, I am not concerned about the League. They're interference without the detective to aid in any investigation will be miniscule and slow. By the time they are even aware of my involvement; my plans will be too far along to be stopped."

"Don't you think you underestimate the power of the Justice League?" The large man asked. "Even if the Batman is formidable, the rest of the League is made up of nothing but Meta's."

"No one in the Justice League has the mental capacity to present a challenge to me." Ra's answered. "Only the detective would be able to get in my way. Now, go and take care of him."

~~ Watchtower training room, two weeks later ~~

Batman watched as Superman and Wonder Woman were sparring. It was truly a spectacle to see. These two Meta's in an actual fight could potentially leave the world in utter destruction before either would be victorious over the other. Superman had the edge in overall strength, but his fighting technique relied solely on his powers whereas Wonder Woman had extensive training to give her an advantage in utilizing technique. Batman paid close attention to her form. He'd noticed ever since defeating her when they sparred that she must have worked hard on perfecting her fighting positions as she was much more balanced and wasn't charging forward to provide any vulnerability. She was still though relying on what her fellow Amazons had trained her with. "Mix it up Diana." Batman instructed. "You're being too predictable in your movements."

Clark attempted to respond in between attacks from Diana. "She…seems…..to be…..mixing…..things….up to me."

"That's because you don't know of any fighting styles aside from brute force Clark." Batman fired back with one of his patented bat glares. "She's not as powerful as you and needs to rely on her technique more."

"Perhaps you'll provide me a rematch instead of trying to critique me Batman." Diana said as she and Clark separated and went for their bottles of water setting on some benches alongside one of the training room walls. "I believe the results will be more in my favor this time."

Batman smirked at her. "If you want to be beaten by a mere mortal man again, I can find the time princess."

"That sounds like a good idea Diana." Clark said as he gathered his things. "I need to get going anyways. There are deadlines that I have to meet otherwise Perry will have my head." Clark leaned in towards Diana as he walked passed her and spoke in a very low voice so that only she could hear him. "I think you need to teach Batman some humility. Don't go easy on him Diana."

She smiled after hearing Superman's encouraging words, and turned to watch until he had exited the training room. "So Batman, what are the rules of engagement this time? No powers or toys or are we going to be permitted to use our full capabilities?"

Batman thought about it for a moment. "I think you've had enough of relying on your brute force with Kent." He suggested. "I'm more interested in making you utilize your training."

Diana smiled vindictively as she approached him before getting into a fighting stance. "Very well Batman, no powers it is. Ready when you are."

Batman removed his belt and began to circle Diana slowly. She was being much more patient this time around. Perhaps it was because she had been sparring with Superman though and she was merely conserving energy. He continued to circle looking for any opening or mistake from her, but she was doing well to maintain with her training. After circling completely around her for the third time, he finally stepped in and feinted with a roundhouse kick. Diana jumped back while maintaining her fighting stance. At this point Batman knew that he was in for a challenge. He came in once again and this time raised his leg momentarily as though he were preparing for a snap kick before slamming his foot back down to the ground and pivoting around and lowering for a spinning heel kick aimed at her feet.

Diana was able to pull one foot back from the impact, but not her second. Her foot came high off the ground from the force of Batman's kick and just as it was returning, she was surprised by the speed of a mortal man as he was quickly throwing punches aimed at her face. She was able to block the initial barrage, but Batman again changed his course of action and latched onto one of her arms as he aimed for a submission hold. She moved as quickly as she could to avoid being put in such a maneuver and threw an elbow from her free arm into his abdomen. The hit was hard enough to knock him back a step, but he didn't release her arm. Instead he pulled her over with him until they were so close together that punches and kicks would be pointless. Instead he battled with her for control as they each grabbed hold of the other and attempted to maneuver themselves into a better position of control.

Diana threw some well places elbows at Batman's midsection and head whenever the opportunity presented itself. She was making good contact and was definitely hurting him even though he was doing well not to show it. She began to believe that she was gaining the upper hand until he suddenly stepped forward into her before immediately pulling back and taking her over his shoulder slamming her to the ground. He instantly pounced on her using his bodyweight to keep her from escaping out from underneath him. They were both breathing heavily from the constant battle for control. He noticed the look of determination on her face as she fought to slow her breathing to normal. As he looked upon her, he temporarily became enchanted by this beautiful woman pinned underneath him. This distraction was all that Diana needed to use her legs and hips in order to flip their positions.

Batman was irate at himself for allowing himself to become distracted. His will was his strongest asset and had just failed him. Now he was pinned underneath Diana and had little room to maneuver in order to free himself. She had a tight grip on his wrists and was in a full controlled mounted position. Diana smiled at him. "You're defeated." She said triumphantly. "Yield."

Batman raised his head off the mats so that his nose was almost brushing against hers. "Not…..yet." He said before she blinked and he immediately thrust his hips upwards violently which created separation from her body to his. It was just enough to swing one of his legs up and he was barely able to hook it in front of her which gave him the necessary leverage to force her off of him completely. He then locked her head between his legs and squeezed. "Now you're defeated. Yield or pass out."

Diana struggled as she attempted to remove herself from Batman's hold, but without using her powers she couldn't find a way to get free. Either way she would be defeated so she tapped on his leg to single concession to him. He released the hold on her head and she sat up trying to catch her breath. He was standing in front of her seemingly unaffected at all from the tussle that had just occurred. How could a mortal man be victorious over an Amazon warrior? She just couldn't put her fingers on the reasoning behind it. This was the second time he had defeated her, and she did not like it one bit. When he offered her his hand she brushed it off violently and stood on her own. "I will figure out how to defeat you without powers." She sneered.

"Eventually, yes." Batman agreed.

Diana was caught off guard from that admission. She was looking at him wide eyed. "What did you just say?"

"There's only so much that I have to use against you, and I will one day grow old." Batman explained. "Eventually you will learn enough or I will become too old to keep up with you. It's inevitable that one day you will be able to defeat me in hand to hand combat."

"That day will come before you've aged too much." Diana stated. "That I promise you."

"If you study other forms of martial arts perhaps so." Batman agreed again. He smirked at her stunned appearance. He enjoyed keeping her on her toes. "You need to expand your knowledge aside from just Amazon training. Then you'll also be able to better protect yourself from taking on so much damage in battle. Like it or not, you're not Superman Diana."

"Perhaps I should expand my knowledge." Diana conceded. "After all, I can better help my people with any knowledge on how to better defend ourselves should the need arise. Do you have any suggestions where to begin?"

"If you're willing to listen and learn, then I could teach you." Batman offered. "But only if you are serious."

Batman turned and walked away from a still stunned Diana. Always keep them guessing he mused to himself.

~~ Monitor Duty ~~

"You're kidding me." Flash stated flabbergasted. "I don't believe it. You're telling me that he was actually nice?"

"Yes." Diana answered. "I was as confused as you are now. Just when I think that he is simply an arrogant mortal that always thinks he's right, he does something like this."

"Maybe he likes you Di." Flash began to tease. "You must have captured the big black bat's heart. Next thing you know, there will be a bouquet of roses waiting for you on your bed."

Diana chuckled at Flash's teasing. "I'm sure that won't happen Flash." She said. "Speaking of, I need to go and get some rest. I have the late night shift of monitor duty."

"Alright Di, I'll see you later." Flash responded as Diana stood up from her chair and walked out to exit the Monitor Womb. She made her way to her personal quarters, and actually caught herself wondering if Batman would actually do something like that. It would send chills through her body to be the recipient of such a gift from the unemotional void that is Batman. She entered her code and closed her eyes for a moment as the door slid open. When she opened her eyes, she could see a long box sitting on her bed, and she gasped at the sight of it. She approached the bed and sat down next to the box, almost afraid to touch it. After a few moments her Amazon character seized control and she reached forward pulling the lid off to reveal a dozen red roses. Had the Batman been reading her thoughts or eavesdropping on her conversation with Flash? She picked up the flowers and a card dropped out of the bouquet. She picked up the card and read the written words.