Kate Kane Batwoman, Season 2 and Beyond

by Shawna1999

Batman is gone. Kate Kane, Batwoman, continues her quest of protecting Gotham and trying to save Beth's soul. With new threats arising, new allies along with them. This series intends to deliver what could've been keeping its main hero. I'll be doing my best and open to any suggestions to keep the sameish/take some liberties with the show. Hope you will enjoy it.

13. S2XO: The Demon's Fist (Part Two)

S2XO: "The Demon's Fist" (Part Two)

Synopsis: "After a critical connection is made between the incidents that occurred in both Metropolis and Gotham, Kate quickly returns home with Superman in tow, along with a reluctant ally in the form of Talia Al Ghul in order to help her team stop the Demon's Fist once and for all. While in Gotham, Clark Kent reflects on the last conversation that he had with Bruce Wayne in the aftermath of the latter's final battle with the Joker and prior to his unexpected departure in 2015."

Disclaimer: Welcome to the longest chapter to date. Somehow, like honestly, I'm shocked, this almost doubled part 1's length. Part 1 was shorter than usual. I hope I made up for it, lol. I've enjoyed part 2 a lot, hoping you all did as well. The next posting will be back on track with the main season, tho keep your eyes peeled for many things that'll be important for the season! Maybe even the series as a whole, don't assume the crossover has nothing for developments.

Thanks for sticking around and the new readers!

The trio of Batwoman, Superman and Talia reached the Batcave, entering.

"Been a long time since I've been here, I always preferred the other place, but it's nice to return back here at last, nostalgic," Talia said.

"You've been here before?" Batwoman questioned.

"Indeed, along with the manor Batcave, I assume it's purely unfixable at this point, correct?" Talia asked.

Kate looked over at Luke. "I've never seen it or really asked much about it."

He nodded. "It's gone, all of it. It would take a long time to repair, and that goes for the manor too."

"I saw it, couldn't blame Bruce for quitting after seeing it all." Superman joined in saying with a frown.

Ryan returned to the cave, along with Mary, which wasn't planned, just happened to work out like that. Both of them were shocked seeing Superman and did a double-take.

"Is that?" Mary asked, surprised.

Ryan nodded, also mind blown to see Superman and approached slowly. "Hi, Superman, sir, I'm beyond honoured to meet you. I can't believe this. Oh my god." Ryan said happily.

"Nice to meet you too, ma'am. Your Batwoman's partner, I'm assuming?"

"Ye-yes, I am, sir. I'm proud to be helping such a hero like Batwoman." Ryan replied.

He nodded. "Indeed, you're doing an amazing job from what I've seen and heard of you. I'm positive you've only gotten started, have a long heroic road ahead of you. Always remember in your darkest hours, the light will triumph over whatever hits you. Things will get better. You got a team that's here for you."

Ryan smiled at him. "Thank you, been inspiring me since I was a young girl. I'm just speechless. Thank you, sir, for everything."

He turned to Kate. "You should be proud of having a strong young woman like her being your partner."

"Yes, I am," Kate said, looking proudly at Ryan.

"I feel like I'm dreaming," Ryan whispered to herself, thoroughly amazed by all this.

"Same here," Mary whispered to Ryan coming beside her, unable to speak seeing Superman in their Batcave.

Mary and Ryan didn't even notice Talia or question who she was being so distracted.

All the while, Luke opened up a bunch of things on the bat computer. Kate noticed he was entirely focused on something. "What are you finding?" She asked curiously, which got the attention of her allies.

"Alright, so, I was looking into possible locations for where The Demon's Fist might be striking next, thinking I found something here. It appears these people-"

"The Demon's Fist." Talia corrected.

Luke nodded and continued. "The Demon's Fist has been primarily targeting Museums. They're clearly searching for something. The question is what, right? I've been digging and looking to see where they've struck. Talia mentioned they're searching for four artifacts. The thing is, they've attacked multiple Museums. Similar descriptions were given from reports. They were written off as pro-break-ins. We know better. They're searching long and hard. One city got 3 similar to this, only one thing was stolen, something that seemed pointless in comparison to everything else, hundreds of objects were included in this particular exhibit."

"What are you trying to say?" Talia asked impatiently.

"Agreed, get to the point, please." Said Kate as well.

Luke sighed. "They don't know exactly what they're looking for in some cases. They clearly knew about the first one Talia brought up and the one in Metropolis that was hidden underground due to immediately planning on stealing it beforehand. Now they're in Gotham and haven't already stolen it."

"How do you know they haven't already?" Kate asked

"I've figured out which one they're searching for and where it's located."

The heroes all looked at him. "Why didn't you lead with that?" Kate questioned.

"You know, I should've in hindsight." He admitted, embarrassed. "From the looks of, we'd know if they found that last one, maybe Talia might have an idea of what to look for? Any details could help here."

Talia pondered for a moment. "A sword, unsure if Mara would know how it looks. A katana, the story had it was cursed, great power, but leads to the death of the welder, takes their soul even, of course, hard to tell after the centuries of its creation. Stories change after time, believe me on that."

Luke typed away on the computer. "Katana huh? I found an ancient one on display in The Gotham Museum of Antiquities. Centuries-old." He pulled up an image.

"Yes, that it's!" Talia exclaimed. "We must search for it! Now!"

The heroes nodded.

"Ryan, you did good work protecting Gotham. Maybe you should sit this one out?" Kate suggested silently to her.

"I think we'd need all the help we can get," Superman said in disagreement.

"Esdroping isn't something I appreciate," Kate replied.

He shrugged. "Can't help my hearing sometimes. This Mara person sounds extremely dangerous. We need all the able-bodies we can get and I'm confident that she'll be able to take care of herself." Superman said with confidence.

"I've still got somethings to teach Ryan, right?" Kate said looking at her hoping she'd agree with her.

Ryan put her hands up. "I personally would rather not take a side in this. Sorry, sir. And Kate" She said awkwardly.

"I'd agree with him. We need the girl, even if she's lacking proper training for such matters. Can't risk losing this katana." Talia added.

Kate closed her eyes and sighed. "Fine, fine. Ryan, you're coming with."

She nodded happily, getting a confidence boost from Superman's presence but still wary of the threat they'd be facing.

Batwoman

Staring/Cast

Everyone seen in season 1 or 2, or etc, is the same, including Ruby Rose as Kate Kane.

Vanessa Morgan is Ryan Wilder

Stephanie Beatriz is Renee Montoya.

Adesua Etomi-Wellington is Knife aka Tahani.

Katie Leung is Mara al Ghul.

The heroes made their way to The Gotham Museum of Antiquities, Batwoman allowed Talia to ride once more on her bike and Superman carried Ryan along, which she found to be fun flying around with Superman.

Once reaching the front of the building they all quickly entered. Superman scanned inside and listened around.

"I hear nothing out of the ordinary and not a soul inside," He expressed.

"Great, then it's safe. We need to find it right now and make sure she'll not get her hands on it," Kate declared heading inside with Ryan and Superman.

Talia stayed behind, seeming to know something. Kate quickly noticed.

"You have something you wish to share with the group?" Kate asked staring at her intently.

"Something's not right, Superman, listen harder. A slowed heartbeat, minimal movement, someone out of the ordinary." Talia explained.

He did so and zoomed off, bringing someone who was listening in quite quickly. "Nice catch, Mara sent someone to watch us?"

"Tracker. Find the sword, now!" Talia exclaimed to Kate and Ryan.

They nodded and rushed inside.

Talia turned to the Man of Steel, "I wholeheartedly hope Bruce taught you somethings."

"Indeed he did," Superman nodded.

She smiled slightly. "I've got an idea, I know what Mara shall do." She began saying forming a plan of attack.

Inside Kate and Ryan looked around.

"Your heading to right the right place!" Luke exclaimed in their ears.

"Thanks, I see it now," Kate replied with a hint of sarcastically.

Ryan stared impressed at it. "That's a pretty cool looking sword and the name, Kira no Ken? " She pointed out and wondered of the name.

"It's a cursed katana, a little conflicted if it's cool. And not to mention, that translates to Sword of Hate. Not exactly friendly." Kate replied smashing the display case open.

"To me, it being a cursed katana is even cooler and Japanese language right? How do you know that?" Ryan questioned.

Batwoman didn't answer, keeping her focus on reaching inside grabbing the katana. It was held in a holder so the blade wouldn't be out in the open. Touching the blade she could feel something with off with it, she quickly put it back in the holder, no longer feeling any effect. "Weird." She remarked. "This is certainly cursed, at least we know it's not a fake. Talia, I've got it." She said into the coms looking over at Ryan.

"Unfortunately Mara will be here any minute," She replied.

"Damn, alright." She sighed and turned her focus to Ryan, thinking for a moment.

Ryan could see it on Kate's face, the concern. "What's up?"

"The assassins are coming, it's too late to send you away and we need Superman to get the katana out of here," Kate said in a rush.

"I'm not leaving you. Even if that was your plan." Ryan replied putting her foot down.

Kate closed her eyes for a moment taking a breath. "We need to move it now, get to Superman." She declared as they started running back to the entrance.

Outside Superman and Talia stood out looking down a bunch of the assassins appearing, making way for Mara.

Talia stepped a couple of steps forward. "Niece, stop this madness! You don't need to do this. Revenge isn't always the answer, I've tried it and nearly brought forth my destruction!" She pleaded genuinely.

"Please, you disgust me. All of our family, Nyssa burnt down our legacy, The League is dead! And yet you didn't even raise a hand! That Oliver Queen giving it to a fool whose name I didn't even have the care to remember! Now you formed a League of Heroes? It's all ridiculous! The League of Assassins existed for centuries, long before our father's time and now we've tarnished it!" Mara exclaimed furiously pulling her sword. "We the true successors to the Demon's legacy we busy dealing with other matters, a riveling faction waging war, if not for that, I'd have killed that pathetic man and Nyssa wouldn't have destroyed everything!"

"Why must you keep it alive? The League as this, Demon's Fist, let it die! They lost their way under father. He lost his way. I see that now." Talia replied.

"Your wrong!" She shouted. "And you're trying to distract me." Mara stepped closer and Superman took a few steps back. "You feel it? The green rock? What wonders it does, makes you useless!" She said happily stopping to mock, not noticing Talia going behind him.

"Do it now." She whispered for only him to hear.

Superman was holding his breath and let out a massive blow of wind, knocking back Mara along with her fellow assassins.

"Good work, keep them at bay! I'll check on the others, they're likely to have sneaked in through the back as well. They'd be foolish not to," She expressed and rushed inside nodding at the man of steel.

He nodded right back and put the focus on the threats in front of him, trusting Talia to have his back.

"Clever!" Mara admitted getting back up, at least 30 feet away.

"Take another step and guess what'll happen, again." He said confidently.

"A standoff, this won't last. It's childish." She motioned her people to take positions around him.

Superman smiled. "Sometimes childish, as you said, can be most effective."

Back inside, Batwoman and Ryan continued running. An assassin leaped down onto Kate, trying to plunge the blade into her. It didn't work. Not being able to cut through the suit, shockingly did leave a mark.

"Sharp sword." She remarked.

"Indeed, might take more work cutting though you, how about your friend?" The assassin replied as another made their way to attack Ryan.

Batwoman grappled onto her and pulled her out of the way.

"Could've worried me!" Ryan exclaimed face planting as Kate creaked the assassin in their face and counter the other breaking their sword.

Ryan jumped back in to help, attacking the assassin while they got a little dazed from Kate's brutal hit, it still didn't put her on even skill level. It didn't matter, however, as Ryan's unconverted fighting helped out here. She aimed more for the below areas, a skilled fighter wouldn't play dirty like that, but an assassin of that calibre wouldn't go down to a hit like that or multiple even. She tried doing what the assassin wasn't, going for any weakness, being a little savage even.

Kate beat back against her attacker and saw a few more were approaching. Talia arrived to assist, helping Ryan first get the edge she needed. In turn, Ryan was a little angry and kicked the now knocked out assassin a couple of times before standing back, Talia made note of this.

"Get behind us. Now." Batwoman said in a grime voice handing Ryan the katana.

She thought of objecting to this but didn't, listening to as told.

Multiple assassins stood before them egure to get the weapon. "You should hand it over now, you all shall be granted a quick death."

"How about we just don't die?" Kate replied sarcastically.

"Your jokes won't do anything for you, it's already too late, hero."

Suddenly Superman was blasted inside bleeding a little.

Mara stepped inside with the rest of her assassins.

"Impossible," Talia muttered.

"Wrong, one of those objects gave me strength. Enough to knock even him back." She said confidently but had a nose bleed and taring on her arms.

"It's killing you," Talia replied.

"Yes, until I get that sword, once I have all four, I'll be that of a god! Wroth the price of death if it leads to the greatest victory the League, or rather The Demon's Fist has ever seen. Now. Surrender."

Superman looked over at Ryan, seeing the sword. Then looked over at Kate, trying to pretend he was knocked out. She knew what he was thinking and nodded. Batwoman spun around tossing multiple batrangs, while The Man of Steel zoomed forward with all his might gripping the sword and flying through the roof escaping.

"No!" Mara shouted moving to strike down Talia who countered her knocking her down before a few assassins attacked. Batwoman hopped in to assist but was half focused, keeping some attention on Ryan who was at the most risk. This was correct as Ryan fought against one, but got slashed multiple times. Fighting through the pain and danger she beat back against her assailant.

Batwoman and Talia kept back to back, switching between who was fighting who. Kate was trying to take most of the hits having the most protection.

Mara got back up angered, she processed to target Ryan, but Talia protected her.

"Trying to hurt the young one, typical of you," Talia said judgmentally.

"Says the woman who kidnapped Oliver Queen's son and family, intending to end their lives. Hypocritical." Mara replied

"That was the past!" Talia replied striking at Mara slashing at her, but spilling no blood.

"Another effect, temporary immortality!" Talia looked at Kate who nodded.

They both tossed smoke bombs, Kate grabbed Ryan and shot her grabbling gun to escape, Talia made her own way out.

Mara grinded her teeth. "After them fools!"

The three got on the roof running away.

"I'm hearing sirens." Kate pointed out.

"Sharp hearing," Talia replied looking backwards.

"It's the Crow's and GCPD!" Declared Ryan pointing at them pulling up in front of the Museum getting out drawing their guns starting to secure the surrounding area.

Batwoman stared down at them. Her father and Montoya arrived in the scene, leaving her conflicted about whether or not it was safe to head down. Didn't seem like they'd have a choice, some of Mara's assassins went out the front looking aggressively at the forces outside, of course, Mara wasn't anywhere to be seen.

"I don't like this," Remarked Kate.

Ryan shrugged. "They'll gun them down if they don't give up, they'd be stupid to not drop their swords!"

"League armour, bulletproof, possibly. That many rounds, I'm not sure." Talia said, thinking to herself.

Down below Jacob got out a microphone. "Drop the swords now! Get on the ground and lock your fingers! This isn't Halloween and we're not screwing around!"

The assassins were not phased. They stepped forward a few steps.

"Final warning!" Jacob shouted looking at his fellow Crows and some GCPD with their weapons drawn. Montoya was keeping a distance, with a concerned face. She tried getting a few officers back, having them keep a distance, expecting things to go wrong any minute now and knew commander Kane wouldn't listen.

The assassins moved in pulling their swords out rushing The Crows who all unloaded on them, some dropped, some didn't. A couple Crows got slashed into before Kate and Ryan jumped down to assist, Talia didn't for some reason.

Batwoman and Ryan fought them, together with Crows and GCPD they got defeated fast enough. For a moment, they all worked together with no troubles. Didn't last as Jacob pointed his gun at the heroes.

"You two are responsible for this!" He exclaimed looking at medics checking on the two downed Crows. Dead from the sharp blades, aimed for their hearts.

"We tried to protect them, your others are alive, if we didn't help you might have more fatalities." Batwoman responded frowning.

Jacob couldn't disagree with her reasoning, it'd be foolish to get into conflict.

The commissioner walked up too, she wasn't too pleased with Kane. "Think commander, we're clearly in trouble here, ninjas are attacking our city. I got eyewitnesses saying Superman was on the scene, this has gotta be serious."

"And where is he? A real hero?" Asked Jacob condescending.

"Batwoman is a true hero, I'm not going to fight with you, one night, all I'm saying is one. Let those people help us, we're not equipped for this. Star City needed The Green Arrow to fight their ninja problem, we need Batwoman and her partner."

Ryan cleared her throat. "Well, they're kinda magic immortal ninjas or something."

Both Jacob and Montoya looked at her. "You're not helping your case kid." Whispered Montoya with a slight smile.

"I'll let this slide tonight, only tonight. Once their dealt with business as usual. Understand?" Jacob said antagonistically.

Reluctantly Batwoman agreed to his terms. He walked off and Kate looked back up, not seeing Talia.

"Where did you go?" She wondered and turned to Ryan.

"Pondering about our missing ally?" Ryan asked, keeping her voice down.

She nodded and kept her voice down too. "We should do a quick search then head back to the cave. Speaking of which. Hey, cave, is Superman there?"

"No, but I just heard from him a minute ago, got the sword and is outside of Gotham limits. You all made me pretty worried, Clark too!" Luke replied.

"Tell him to bury it far away. Or throw it into the sun. Whatever stops Mara."

"Not sure if that's the right call, Mara might be willing to do something drastic to get it back right? So could be good leverage."

Kate was confused. "It seems dangerous, why risk it?"

"Well, if we've got enough time, could try creating an exact replica. Just in case, trick her? You know what I mean?" Luke said.

"Right, I get it now. We'll be getting back to the cave soon, if you see Talia, don't let her inside. Lock it all down if you have to." Kate replied.

"Um, what? What's happened?"

"She's vanished. Not a word, I wanna know what the hell she's thinking, I don't trust her, not completely." Kate responded grabbing up along with Ryan, who was getting used to it, but struggled a little with the equipment.

Luke sighed. "Sometimes Talia could keep things secret and wasn't the best at communication or working with others. She's got flaws, but I trust her."

"Alright, I trust your judgement, just be careful." Kate replied letting go of her somewhat of a basis against her for a moment. "And, can you patch me through to Superman?"

Elsewhere, Superman was flying still holding onto the sword, but wasn't too comfortable around it, feeling an evil lurking off it perhaps. He stopped in a forest to think as Kate patched in though coms.

"Superman? Where are you?"

"Quite a distance out of the city. Figured it'd be best. Did you three stop Mara?"

"No, she's escaped, but cause you got that sword of hate she can't reach her full potential. Unless Talia lied."

Superman sighed with relief. "Good, at least one positive, should I bring this back to the cave?" He questioned.

"No, no. You could get spotted and in the worst-case scenario they could swarm the cave. We know they're good at tracking and sneaking. Put it somewhere safe and come back, we're going to need your help, Mara is going to get disparate," Kate expressed with a little concern in her voice.

"Alright, I'll do that and retrieve my kryptonite suit for some protection."

"I'm sorry what?" She was shocked and confused. "You've had that all this time?"

He nodded and smiled. "Yes, I use it only when it's an emergency. I'd say now might count. Best to be safe. Gotta go."

Superman prepared himself for his fast trips and remembered once more the past regarding the last night he saw Bruce and the last night Batman was publicly seen in Gotham City.

Superman was heading to Gotham, still a few minutes away flying at top speed. While he did, Lois Lane called him which made him stop in his tracks.

"Lois? What's the matter?"

"Clark, it's worse than anyone thought, you can't go to Gotham!" She exclaimed.

He shook his head repeatedly. "What's happening? It can't be that bad."

Lois's voice cracked a little before she continued speaking, feeling emotional which worried the Man of Steel greatly it wasn't something she hardly felt. "Bruce managed to send a text message to her before all communications in Gotham were cut off, the situation in Gotham has become far worse than previously anticipated. The Joker somehow figured out the identities of Batman and his allies, and he somehow took Bruce's own money and is utilizing it for his own devious purposes."

"Well, I'm going for damn sure then!" He replied.

"Wait." She sighed. "The Joker claimed to have some kind of contingency plan against Superman if he ever decides to show up. As such, Bruce wants you to stay away from Gotham, no matter what happens. We all know what he's capable of, he could kill you, or worse. I remember that time when Poison Ivy took over your mind temperley. And I'd prefer Catwoman to not have to throw me off a building again to snap you out of something like that. If that'd even work, knowing that clown it could be more dangerous. We need to think about our sons Clark. They can't lose you." She said genuinely.

"Your right, but I can't standby and let Bruce and his family and friends die. He already lost Lucius Fox this year, I'm not sure how much more loss Bruce could handle, his whole Batfamily for that matter.

Lois was silent for a moment. "I know this is an impossible discussion, we need to trust him, he always finds a way. Always. Come home, the boys need you and I got a feeling you'd be best off with them now."

Superman nodded. "Alright, I'll come home. If I hear anything about Gotham's status changing, I'm going to head right there."

"I'd expect nothing less, I love you, Clark."

"I love you too Lois, I'll be home in a few." He hung up and drifted slowly in the air, couldn't help stop thinking about his best friend, worried. Something felt different, a sickening feeling and anger at himself for not being able to assist.

Back in the present, Superman continued flying, getting back to being focused on what was ahead, not behind. He wondered too if he should tell Kate once this was all over, the final time he saw Bruce.

Kate meanwhile was returning to the cave with Ryan but remembered the trackers could follow them, so thought against it stopping alongside the road.

"Uh, why are we stopping here?" Ryan questioned.

"We might be getting followed, don't want to take any chances. Maybe we should get a backup cave or place in case of something like this." Kate wondered aloud.

"What can we do now?" Questioned Ryan.

Kate thought for a moment and patched into Luke again. "Have you found Talia?"

"Searching currently, I've been listening to the GCPD coms and waiting for any mentions of The Demon's Fist appearing. Could they have captured her?"

"Doubtful, I want to understand what she's thinking. She's clearly got a plan here or knows something that we don't and hasn't said anything." Kate said, as she did Talia appeared once more with another assassin bloodied up being dragged by her.

"I'm glad you stop at last. Was waiting to get the drop on our sneaky friend here." She dropped the assassin in from of Kate and Ryan.

"Where the hell were you?" Kate questioned.

"Keeping my distance, I wanted to see who'd follow you, it was educational. I figured I'd not bother telling you, might not believe me. Question me like you are now. Last time we meet you threw me into a prison cell. So I have the right to be skeptical."

Kate nodded in agreement. "Your right, I've not been exactly trusting towards you. That wasn't too long ago. It's a little hard for me to believe how much you have changed. I am seeing it more. And that I was wrong. Regardless, you should've kept in contact, with Luke at least."

"Yes, perhaps you're correct. I'll confess, like with you, I don't know Luke Fox as well, not as much compared to his father of course. I didn't know if he could be trusted. Let's both change our tunes. For one, I now know The Many Arms of Death are involved with Mara. Or rather were." Talia confessed.

Kate looked suspiciously at her. "Tahani, working for Mara then? Or did, considering we know she killed a couple of her people. How long did you know about this?"

"Only minutes ago, Tahani was watching, following. I'd take the gander Mara's done something to piss off The Many Arms of Death. Whatever that may be can left to your imagination, clearly, we can expect some resistance from them. At least Knife will cause us issues." Talia expressed.

"So, what exactly do we do now?" Ryan asked.

"Wait for Mara to strike, I suspect it'll be soon."

Ryan nodded and rolled her eyes. "I was expecting a little bit of a better answer, we have to do something and can't just wait for people to start dying!"

"Alright, Batwoman, shall I make this fool speak?" Talia said looking off at her.

Batwoman nodded reluctantly. "Don't kill them, or I will take you back to prison."

Talia looked over at her amused. "Please, you wouldn't be able to take me in a true fight, not even with your partner, no offence young lady."

"None taken I think?" Ryan replied honestly not sure.

Talia dragged the assassin into an alleyway. "Might take a few minutes, but trust me. I know how to make someone talk, even if they trained under my family."

Back at the cave, Luke was monitoring the GCPD radio, as he did something finally could be heard happening.

"We've got a problem at Grant Park! Those ninjas or assassins whatever they are set up a defensive front and have hostages! We need support! I repeat in need of support! Have an officer down!"

"This is Commissioner Montoya, can you confirm the sighting?"

"My partner is down!"

She sighed. "Alright, alright, stay calm. Officers, Swat, are on the way. Hell, I'll even call the Crows. All units in the area, get down there now. Not screwing around, this is a serious threat, be on high alert and create a premature. We're not letting them escape again!" She said into the radio for all officers to hear.

Mary looked over at Luke. "That sounds pretty serious!" She exclaimed.

"Yeah, I'm calling Kate now." He replied nodding.

"Tell her to be careful, these creeps are creeping me out."

"Well said," Luke chuckled to himself upon hearing.

Batwoman got caught up to speed by Luke with the current events.

"Thanks for the catch-up. Try getting any more useful info and send it to commissioner Montoya if you find anything, don't want the cops walking into a trap. Or the Crows for that matter." She replied about to hang up.

He cleared his throat. "Right, Mary wanted to say she wants you to be careful, she's got that concerned sister look. So please don't die."

"Not planning on it, I'll never be taken down that easily," Kate responded and hung up then She walked over to Talia to inform her about what's happened. The woman had beaten the assassin pretty savagely but didn't seem to learn anything. Ryan noticed the violence done and didn't seem to bother, Kate wasn't too pleased about it.

"I told you not to kill."

"And I've obliged. This man shall live, a tough bastard if I say so, haven't said a word."

Kate shook her head. "Doesn't matter, Mara is striking. Having a final stand in a park apparently. It's not far, she must have had this as a backup plan. It feels to fast to be not a plan, not like we've backed her into a wall right?"

"Correct, good thinking. I'm doubtful this fool shall be speaking anytime soon, we should be getting to stopping her. Can you patch me into your coms? I'll be heading to the location you give on my terms." Talia said staring at Kate.

"Fine, yes. I'll trust you. Don't break my trust, Talia."

"I won't, tell me when Superman returns. We'll be needing his assistance." She left.

Ryan was looking down at the ground with a frown.

"What's the matter?" Kate asked concerned.

She couldn't look at her but spoke softly. "You know, some part of me is hoping this Talia person is going to kill these creeps. They seem like monsters you know? I got that feeling again, like with Scarecrow. Hate for people like this, without any regrets for human life, they don't deserve life. On the other hand, thinking all that scares me, deeply. Scarecrow played off that you know? That I don't have the guts to kill him, but god, do I ever want to. I see him in these killers. Now that Safyiah lady is involved, her personal assassin too, just more bloodshed."

Kate nodded softly and stood close to her. "I know, I understand how you feel. It's not easy watching people die, fighting killers, monsters. It'll get easier, with time. Don't let that darkness win. It's strong, believe me. You have so much potential and room to grow. Ryan, killing makes us monsters, just like them. What right do with have? I know you're going to do great things for Gotham heck, be a symbol, inspire people to be better. That's what a hero does. Maybe one day could surpass me. Just maybe," Kate said with a smile putting her hand on her shoulder.

"Just maybe huh?" Ryan smiled back.

"Well don't want to give you too much incentive to be better than me, it would hurt my ego." She laughed softly. "Come on, we've got people to save and killer assassins to beat. Let's go, partner."

Ryan nodded smiling a little, feeling a bit better from Kate's words of engagement. They hopped back on the bike and speeded away.

The trio arrived at the blocked off area, Montoya and commander Kane had seemed to put their differences aside now as well, working together to keep it secured, having GCPD and Crows all over keeping watch.

"What's the status?" Batwoman asked, approaching.

"No movement yet, we've been watching closely and would've seen something by now it's strange." Jacob said glaring at her, unhappy having to work with his enemy.

Talia stepped forward. "It's possible one of Mara's abilities could be shielding their signature. Or some technique, there are some."

"Who are you?" Jacob asked skeptically.

Montoya nodded. "I recognize this woman. Years ago, Batman-"

She shook her head. "Past events, I've changed since those days. I'm your best bet at safely stopping these assassins or ninjas as I've heard."

"I agree with her. She'll help us." Batwoman persisted.

"Alright, fine. Whatever it'll take." He agreed.

"They have help!" A cheerful voice called out from above them.

Superman lowed down to the ground softly.

Jacob seemed relieved seeing him returned to Gotham. "Nice to meet you, sir. Glad to be having a truly heroic figure on the scene."

"Now now, Batwoman and her partner are quite the heroes themselves. Even if you can't see that, commander." Superman replied crossing his arms.

"Perhaps, if they learned to distance themselves from your buddy Batman. This city doesn't tolerate bats anymore."

Superman frowned. "I see, that's unfortunate you have that mindset. Like it or not, Batman protected Gotham, before you came here. These women are trying to uphold that legacy and are doing the best they can. Perhaps if you opened your mind a little from time to time, things could be more productive, sir. Of course, it's your city, can't and won't be telling you what to do. Now if you excuse me, I'm going to take a quick peek around, make sure we've got no surprises." He replied flying off once more.

At this point, Jacob didn't want to get into a disagreement again.

Kate looked over at Montoya and got her attention. "We're going to attack in a minute, be prepared for anything and get all your people back. No idea what kinda power they've got or last resort plan. Shouldn't risk any of your lives."

She nodded in agreement.

Superman landed back down before them. "I've noticed some assassins, I suspect they've set up lead shielding, can't see fully."

"She is hiding, be on guard, we should move."

They all agreed to do so moving carefully towards to center of the park.

Together they noticed a tunnel that was already there but seemed to have something new added. A hole dug into the ground.

Ryan shook her head upon seeing it. "Don't like the looks of that, I'm not going first or second or-"

"I get the idea, you go last or could stay behind. No shame in being safe." Kate replied.

"No, I was just being jokey, you know, humour in the face of life and death. Something to do when I'm a little fearful, you know of dying."

Superman put a hand on her shoulder. "You'll not die today. Promise you have a long life ahead of you. Stay strong and avoid anything pointy, you'll be fine."

"Alright, yeah." She nodded.

They went down into the hole, finding it was a bit deep. Kate noticed the coms weren't working as they went deep into the underground cavern like place.

The man of steel went first looking around with his X-ray vision. "We've got some upset assassins, just up ahead." He remarked.

Talia went in first, finding Mara sitting on a throne. "Your ego is quite large, isn't it?" She said mockingly.

"Perhaps, but I'm quite powerful. Thought a temporary lair underground would be, suiting for us. Living below the people, then rising back up to strike back! I'll be unbeatable soon, once you handover that final piece, my Sword of hate, I've got a lot of haterade boiling, waiting to explode. Kill everything in this bitful city."

"You'll have to get past us and I'm not dying to you. I've got a bigger person on my pissing me off list," Kate said standing beside Talia.

She scoffed. "You mean Safiyah? Yes, The Many Arms of Death? Causing you a pain as well? How unfortunate. Not to fear, you'll be dead and they'll follow suit."

"How has she caused you pain? What's your connection?" Kate questioned.

Mara smiled amused. "I'll tell, it was years ago, once the Leauge appeared to be failing. A deal need was stuck to ensure our survival. With them, under different management mind you. Much more helpful, assisted in this quest, the resources needed, you'd not believe. We'd share the power granted, at that time I was a fool, thought I'd share it, though I'd not be as perfect as it truly is! Then after some radio silence, that Safiyah was running the show. Cut ties, tried to have us killed even! Really nasty piece of work she is. Having her wrath, now that's something I'd not wish upon anyone. Maybe Talia. Now I'm curious, whatever did you do?"

"Safiyah took over?" Kate questioned, trying to wrap her head around it.

"You're doing it all wrong haven't you heard of-" Mara began shouting before Superman made his presence known zooming inside and quickly grabbing all of Mara's objects, flying away before getting zapped by those objects.

She laughed. "Nice try! You trying to steal my beautiful prizes!? You'll all die a long painful death fo-"

Talia cut her off. "Mara, you remind me of a mad dog. It's saddening, seeing what you've become. Couldn't you kill us, fairly? With honour?"

She pulled her blade. "Fine, you'll die with honour dear Talia. I'll give you a deal, you win, I'll surrender! I kill you, Gotham falls!" Mara swung at her.

Talia blocked with her own sword pushing back and slashed at her missing as Mara knew her fighting style. "You're clearly insane if you think I'd agree to such."

"You lack ambition!" She shouted and leaped in for further attacks.

Meanwhile, Superman continued to fight to escape with the objects. Ryan went over with Batwoman to him, while the assassins approached drawing their swords. "You will not interfere with our master's plans."

"Seems like your master is already doing that herself, can't you all tell she's clearly out of her mind? Maybe these broke her mind!" She implied to the assassins.

"Your wrong! They've given her great strength!" Another assassin shouted and attacked which lead to Kate blocking kicking them back.

"You two might wanna get out of here," Batwoman said looking back at her allies who nodded in agreement. At least 10 assassins charged at her, an action packed battle unfolded as she grabbled up above them before landing back down behind tossing a few batarangs into their lags. Then processed to fight against three of them. She tried to be fast, dogging some blows, but they were faster as a pairing. Batwoman got hit and kicked all around, she spun around trying to keep the focus on taking one down at a time. One with a slightly yellow colour on their uniform approached holding a sharp chain. "Get over here!" They shouted and tried to grab onto Batwoman with the chain, but failed as she grabbed in midair pulling them close uppercutting them. "Fatality?" She joked shrugging her shoulders. Then continued to beat down on one of them grabbing another one using them as a shield. "If you want me, going to have to get through your friend here." She declared.

"I'm prepared to die for the cause." The one in her grasp replied.

"Crap." She said rolling her eyes.

Ryan helped Superman get out of the tunnel. "Why can't you fly us out?"

"This electricity is extremely painful, it's affecting my strength, my ability to fly. I'm trying to take it all in and not give you a take of the shock." He replied.

"What'd happen if I got a little shock?"

"You'd be fried, let's say 10 times the electric chair, but don't quote me on that. Wouldn't recommend this pain!"

She nodded and managed to bring him to the surface.

"Alrighty, we should be good now right?" Ryan looked around and noticed some more assassins stepping forwards. "Tell me your back to full strength if you drop those?"

"Should be!" Superman replied dropping them to the ground and spun around blowing back all the enemies approaching as Ryan hit the dirt avoiding the windy breath. "Thanks for the save!"

"No problem! We need to hold this line, can't let these get into her nasty hands!"

Downbelow, Talia continued to do battle against Mara getting the upper hand in the fight knocking the blade away and holding her, ready to kill. "Your such a disappointment. Always has been, part of me knew you'd snap and creak under pressure, lose you mind. Whatever the cause, it's over." Talia prepared to kill her, but Kate grabbed the sword with her batcraw pulling it away, while mid battle with the assassins.

"Like hell I'm letting you kill her!" Kate shouted at her.

"It's for the best, an honourable death which is more than she deserves!" Replied Talia angered by Batwoman interfering.

Mara laughed. "You really were going to kill me?" She revealed one of her objects. "Don't believe your friends can count, they only got one! I have strength and flight! Teleporting doesn't mean as much to me!" She shouted and grabbed ahold of Talia flying up smashing through the ground with her tossing her out into the open part, leaving her a bit hurt.

She flew at Superman and smacked him hard. "Surprising isn't it? To have someone as powerful as myself attack the likes of you?"

"Not exactly what I was thinking." He replied, not too phased by the hit.

Mara scoffed and continued to put the beat down onto the Man of Steel, who to her surprise continued one of her attacks.

"Not as weak as I figured!"

"And you're not as strong as I'd expect from a magic power source. Really thought you'd be hitting harder!" He replied confidently.

She smiled. "Alas, I was toying. Magic is your weakness and I know that, fool!" She replied giving a much stronger punch knocking him back a few feet.

"That suit won't save you, Kryptonite protection? Not magic protection!"

Ryan tossed something at the woman getting her attention. "Unfair! You keep having to use his weakness to win! You can't win a fair fight huh? Use your brain!' She said mocking Mara so Superman could get back up, building up a counter punch.

"You shouldn't mock a goddess girl."

"And you turned your back on an opponent!" Superman replied quickly not giving her enough time to react to a hard smack knocking her right back about 20 feet. She was now bloody, but still stood as Superman came above her ready to continue to subdue her.

"I've had a backup plan, bombs, planted, right around where all those cops are. If you look you'll see I'm not bluffing!" She exclaimed pleased.

He didn't think and immediately fly off to check her claims, which he soon realized were in fact true.

"Everyone! Out of here now! Bombs!" He shouted out and zoomed to defuse them all before it was to late.

Mara meanwhile fly back to Talia who struggled to stand back up.

"My, my. Hurt are we?"

"I'll live." She replied and spat in her niece's face. "Coward."

"Changed my mind, perhaps breaking your spin and neck would a satisfying way of revenge. Live in a broken body!"

Before Mara could go through with it, Kate started to approach and shouted out at her.

"Fight me. One on one, fair fight. No tricks! Come on! How can you pass it up! Killing Batwoman with your bare hands? You know you can't resist that!"

Mara give a smirk. "Yes, your right. I can't. Prepare to die by my hand!" She argently tossed down her power sources.

The two women got into a battle, Mara pulled out two knives, which seemed sharp enough to slash through the batsuit making some cuts. Kate used Mara's overconfidence to her advantage, pretending to be a poor fighter and getting hurt to prove this. After a few nasty blows, Mara began to get cocky.

"I must admit, Batwoman, I figured you'd be more interesting to fight against. Batman was a candent for the Demon's Head. You're not even close!" She laughed.

"I've learned somethings, it appears your to tough, powerful. I can't win this fight, but I'm going to not drop easily." She said lying, trying to boast Mara's ego.

It worked as Mara laughed to herself. "I've been laughing and smiling quite a lot these last few minutes, to imagine, what it'll be like with that fourth sword. It'll be perfect!"

"Oh, the sword? That's rather unfortunate." Said Kate, trying to hide a smile that formed inside her mind.

"What the hell do you mean?" Mara questioned furiously.

"Superman, he tossed that sword of hate or whatever, into the sun. Bye-bye, all your dreams. Guess you'll have to get used to being as strong as you are now."

Mara shook her head in disbelief. "No, no, your lying! The man who ran the league before my father used that sword! The power, the value of it! That history!"

"Gone. How sad." Kate said sarcastically.

"That man raised from a small village, using that sword rose to power for centuries! How could you possibly be so foolish!" Mara yelled. "These must be lies, tell the truth!"

In her anger, she didn't notice as Ryan came close nodding at Kate, getting ready to help with the fight.

"Maybe I am. Like I'm going to tell you where it is, you'd kill me." Batwoman said with a laugh and smirk.

"You think you're funny?"

"Perhaps, I know I'm smarter than you," Kate replied as Ryan kicked Mara's lags in from behind, which gave a chance for Batwoman to attack from the front while Ryan continued from the back.

"Cheaters!" She shouted.

"Winners!" Ryan corrected.

The two heroes easily overpowered Mara now knocking her out and tying her up tightly.

They both sighed and looked at Talia who gave an approving nod. "Smart tactic. It seems like trying to kill her wasn't the right approach. I can admit, again, I was wrong." Talia confessed.

A news helicopter was flying in the sky watching all this happening, which the heroes didn't notice immediately.

Batwoman walked over to Talia reaching out to her. "Can you walk?"

"Yes," She said, getting pulled up. "I'll take Mara and the rest of these assassins into my custody and they'll live. Promise, my partner would be upset if we killed any of them while under our hold. I'm sure I'd get an ear full from her and her husband once they return. She's the sister of Oliver Queen and you know how he feels about killing."

"Not to sure if I do." Kate replied.

Talia for once give a small laugh. "True enough."

While they spoke Superman came over with commissioner Montoya.

"Good work, so I'm I going to be arresting some ninja's today?" She asked.

Batwoman shook her head. "I'm trusting my, allies' word here. They'd break out easily, far faster then the criminals that already breakout. She knows how to deal with them and is equipped."

Montoya shrugged. "Alright, wasn't wanting to be holding them anyways."

Superman smiled. "And I defused all the bombs, looks like it all worked out."

"Yes, well, could you do clean up? Catch the rest of those nasty fools running around?" Talia asked.

He nodded and processed to do so.

"Meet us back at, the lair," Kate said in a soft voice so he'd hear, but not anyone listening in closely. "We should be heading away, wouldn't want to face the wrath of the Crows, now would we?" She said a little jokey.

"You all did good work today. Like you said, we'd not be able to have handled this threat." Montoya said with an approving handshake.

Batwoman gave a smile and left with Ryan & Talia. However Talia stopped as she noticed something.

"Hold on, I'll be right behind you two. Need to call my allies about, well this. I do need some help to bring all these assassins in of course." She said, which was half-truth and half lie.

Kate was skeptical, but trusted Talia at that moment, not wanting to break any trust developed between the two. "Alright, see you soon."

Superman meanwhile went back to seeing some reporters waving at him and felt a little curious as to what questions they might have so went to peak in. Along with thinking he could give Batwoman some good press.

"Superman! Superman!" All of them shouted out and he pointed at one random one, who reminded him a bit of Jimmy, or rather James as he'd preferred.

"Safe to say, we're all surprised to see you working with Batwoman so openly! There were rumours you did the same with Batman? Might you know whatever happened to him?" They asked curiously.

Superman frowned. "I'm afraid not, I can promise he didn't leave Gotham as a coward, like some believed. A great deal happened to that man and it takes a toll. I'd say, it broke him apart. However, Batwoman contuinies his legacy, proudly and boldly protecting these city streets from all sorts of dangers. One you might not even be aware of. The city's people is in safe hands and don't feel, I'm close by." He waved and flew off hoping his words has helped out Batwoman.

Talia al Ghul stood on a nearby rooftop waiting for the person following to make themself known, she already knew who. "Tahani." She said coldly.

The woman approached carefully. "Not surprised to see me?"

"Surprised you'd approach, carelessly."

"Safiyah wouldn't allow me to be killed without payback. I mean a lot to her."

Talia's face was blank. "Don't bet on it."

"Why are you in Gotham? Besides dealing with your traitorous niece, you always did have ulterior motives." She pointed out.

"In the past, yes. Now, no. I've changed as you have Tahani. Do you prefer Knife or The Knife now?" Questioned Talia.

"Either is fine, when I'm working."

Talia scoffed. "Work, do you think of yourself as a killer for hire? Exclusively for your dear old love Safiyah? One-sided love. What is it you want Tahani? I've told you why I'm here, how about yourself?"

"What are you asking? Our mission? Goals?"

"Are you going to kill Kate Kane?" Talia asked coldly.

She looked at her old mentor blankly right back. "As far as I know, Kate shall live as long as Safiyah chooses for."

"Interesting, I do wish to question about her endgame, but I know you'll die before telling me, correct?"

She didn't answer as it was redundant.

Talia sighed heavily. "You showed so great promise. Why do this? Work for dishonourable territories. I gave you freedom of choice and you dumped all over it."

"You don't understand. Under Safiyah, The Many Arms of Death has become something greater and has a larger reach than you could've dreamed with your little group."

Talia ignored her insistence. "Why did they work with Mara? Seems like something you abject to?"

"Wasn't my choice, Safiyah took charge after that ordeal. Regardless of the ones in change, The Many Arms of Death were going to betray The Demon's Fist. They were insane with their goals, thinking we'd let them gain such power to take over the world, kill so many people. All that payback and Mara's deteriorating mind via those unhelpful objects, not worth the risk in our eyes." She expressed.

Talia stepped closer. "What did Mara promise you in return for helping in her search? Must have been quite valuable."

"Nothing like that, profit. Stealing for us to sell back with our company. Easy money, no strings attached and fools never fact checked or ever did link anything stolen back to us. All worked out good." She replied, crossing her arms.

"Money? Is that all you care about now?" Talia questioned soffing at the implication.

"You know how much money can do, change." She pointed out.

"Tahani, you still have a chance to turn away from them. Join my group, it's different. W-" She got cut off.

"Join your heroic efforts? Please! Heroics haven't done anything. Clearly, this is going nowhere, goodbye, Talia." She started to leave.

"Think about my words! Everything I've taught you! Be smarter Tahani!"

It ultimately fell on deaf ears, as the woman known now as Knife left, leaving Talia with an upsetting feeling inside. One she tried greatly to hide, but couldn't deny it now, the pain of failure.

On the radio, Vesper Fairchild had thoughts on the situation as it had wrapped up. "Mortal Kombat" has apparently come to Gotham! Ninjas have lead waste to the city! Well might be an overreaction, but was quite a shocking surprise to be curtin! Batwoman, her new partner who really needs a name by the way! And a mysterious woman assisting. And couldn't forget Superman made an appearance as well! He even had some remarks on the disperence of Batman, made it sound like more happened then we all expected. Perhaps we are could be to hard on The Caped Crusader? Something to keep in mind for our new bat protector? Besides that, it seems like these Mortal Kombat rejects have been defeated once and for all by the brave heroes! While the Crows and GCPD helped keep the public safe from getting to close to the epic battle. Feels like a victory seeing the Crows let Batwoman and her super pals have some leeway. Wouldn't bet on that lasting long." She sighed. "Let's focus on today and celebrate this victory over nutty ninjas! Talk to me Gotham, how did you all feel about these events?"

Back at the cave, Batwoman, Ryan and Superman had returned to their allies' relief. Mary ran up and gave Kate a big hug.

"I was so worried about you!" Exclaimed Mary feeling happy.

"Why?" Kate questioned surprised by the reaction.

"Can't I be worried when my sister goes off to fight some ninjas assassins or whatever with Superman and some ex villain? And Ryan."

"Was anyone concerned for me?" Ryan asked disappointed.

Mary nodded rapidly. "Yes! Of course we did!"

"Yeah, was feeling pretty worried about you getting killed too." He paused. "Kinda made me thinking a little bit." He said softly, but before could explain further, Talia returned.

"Don't worry, Mara's followers were nothing compared to real League of Assassin members. They would've killed you." Talia said.

Ryan nodded slowly. "I don't know how to take that."

"To be thankfully you survived perhaps?"

"Yeah, I am, just wish got some more butt-kicking in." She said shrugging.

Talia thought for a moment and turned to Kate. "May I speak to your partner? For just a moment?"

"Alright, yeah, go ahead." Kate said nodding.

Luke stood up. "Hey, actually I got something to ask quickly too." He said coming up to Kate with his tablet.

She nodded and talked with Luke, while Mary went to go "casually" esdrop on them.

While they spoke, Talia and Ryan started to speak.

"So um, did I do something?"

Talia didn't reply, just looking at her for a moment.

"Did I-"

Talia began to speak. "You remind me of a young one Bruce Wayne had under his wing, his name was Jason Todd. I'm not sure if they told you about him."

Ryan shook her head.

"I see, he's a tough subject. Today, seeing you fight, reading your personality, you've got similar traits to him. And some differences of course. He anger issues, grew up an orphan, stress skills, you get the point. Obviously, I'm not stupid, you've got different circumstances in your life and it leads to different ways these played out."

"How-" She paused and thought for a moment. "No seriously ms Talia, how do you know things about me? Kinda creeped out."

"I've done my homework, need to know exactly about what Batwoman's doing." She admitted.

"Why?"

"Do I need to spell it out?"

Ryan shrugged.

"Jason, you must wonder what happened to him, correct?" Talia said moving to lean against a wall.

"Yeah, what happened? Died?"

"Yes, horribly. Didn't listen when he should've been. Impulsiveness lead to his death. It broke Bruce, further mind you. Don't be like him, Jason. Don't die foolishly for what? Overconfidence, revenge, anger. Those get you killed and will harm the ones you have now your team. You don't get a second chance at life, Jason did." Talia said.

Ryan was puzzled. "Second chance at life? What's that meant to mean?"

"Story for another time. Not the point." Talia said dismissively.

"What's the point then?"

"Be smarter, don't make the same mistakes, go down the same roads as he did, it'll be tragic if you follow him. Open your eyes, expand your views, question why Kate Kane is concerned for your safety."

Ryan took in the words said and nodded, understand what she was told and wondered to herself. Now realizing how the team and Kate were genuinely concerned for her safety. When she had follow up questions she noticed Talia had walked off approaching the rest of the team.

"I think I'll be taking my leave now, first, tell me where the katana is before I do, I'd like to take it. Unless you object?"

"Accutally, I'd like to keep in the batcave. You know, safekeeping?" Kate replied crossing her arms.

"It would be safe in my care, lacking trust are we?" She asked.

Kate shook her head. "No, that's not it. Firstly I assume The Demon's Fist has more members alive, who'd want that. Secondly, it's part of your father's legacy right? Why want that around, from what I get you despise him. Third, I'm thinking of starting a collection down here. A trophy room maybe? To hold onto piece of value like that. Nothing about not trusting you, I've put aside our past, my throwing you in jail. I see the new you."

Talia nodded. "Fair, your words changed my mind, keep it."

"Hey, one more tiny thing. Do you know where Bruce is? Honest?"

She turned back around. "Yes, I do know where he is."

Kate's face lit up brightly upon hearing such.

"However, it's not my place to share such details."

Luke listening in had his jaw drop and Kate's face shifted to anger.

"You've got to be kidding me! Is this a joke to you? How dare you keep this from us!?" Exclaimed Kate pissed.

"It's for Bruce, he left Gotham for a good reason and whatever personal demons he's facing and I promise you, it's a lot, he needs to handle on his terms. If I told you all where he was, you all could make things worse instead of better. Do you really want that for him?" She questioned.

Kate thought for a moment taking a breath. "If I could see him again, I could forgive him for not saving my mom and sister all those years ago. I hated Batman, how do you think that made him feel? Just added more to his guilt that I know he carries a lot of." She countered.

"Bruce's demon's go much farther than failing to save your mother and sister. On that fateful day facing off against the Joker for the last time, it truly made him lose everything and his whole world completely fell apart. He experienced a lot of loss and pain along the way, but that day, it was the end. None of you ever will likely know how much was lost. He kept it that way. Wanted it to be private, along with his whereabouts. Batman was destroyed and I'm not sure if he'll ever heal. So no, I apologize, I'll not be telling you. Hopefully, that's not a drawer end to our, partnership. It was good working with you and I want you to know, Bruce would be proud. Good luck to you and your team, Batwoman." Talia said, then made her leave.

As she did, Superman returned. "Why the frowns? Didn't we beat the bad guys?"

"Talia knows where Bruce is," Luke said.

He was surprised. "Well, did she tell you all where?"

"No. I'm afraid not," Kate said walking away.

Superman followed along.

"Speaking of him, I should let you know something." He began to say and paused. "I saw him, on the last night he appeared as Batman in Gotham."

She turned her focus to him. "Tell me about it."

Back years ago, to the fateful night.

Superman had finally gotten into Gotham after the war with the Joker had ended and the GCPD, along with outside assistance had started to clean up the city.

He approached Wayne Manor, which wasn't looking in great shape at all. Then went inside of the Batcave underneath, which was looking even worse. Completely in ruins, with a lone man sitting, Batman.

"Bruce? What happened?"

"The Joker, he learnt everything. Held nothing back." He replied softly.

Clark frowned. "I'm so sorry Bruce if I had been her-"

"No." Bruce said cutting him off. "You had other matters to attend to, besides, I couldn't contact for help until it was too late. Not to mention if that contingency plan was real, God knows what might have happened. You did all you could, given the circumstances."

His friend nodded. "Perhaps. Where is your family? The Joker?"

"My family is gone. So is the clown." Bruce replied not able to look at Clark.

"What do you mean gone?"

Bruce stood up. "Dead, greatly injured or done with me."

"Can you be more specific? Come on, you know I can be trusted." Clark said putting his hands on his hips.

"Not a matter of trust. One of shame." He replied coldly.

"Why are you shameful? You won, beat the Joker and stopped all his plans, right? Your alive and you never give up."

Bruce looked at a shattered photo. "Yes, could say it's a victory. The final one."

"What do you mean?"

"Batman is dead. I crossed the line, lost everyone and everything. It's over."

Superman shook his head. "How can you say that? After everything you've been through over these last 15 or so years?"

"You don't understand."

"Help me understand then, please. I want to help you."

He nodded. "Helping is what your best at. There are others in Gotham that could use you. Or even Alfred. He's upstairs, trying to sort through the wreckage still." Bruce gave a slight laugh. "Told me I needed rest, wouldn't let me assist him any further."

Clark was concerned. "Is there truly nothing I can do? For you?"

"No, there isn't Kent. This is not a job for Superman. Helping my city is something you can do. Go." Bruce said coldly, continuing to stare at the broken photo.

Clark put a hand on his shoulder. "Keep holding on. Your strong, I believe in my best friend. Gotham's hero."

He didn't reply.

Superman sighed and left.

"Did you find out what happened afterwards?" Kate asked.

"Sadly no. That was the last time I saw my pointy-eared friend." He smiled briefly. "I spent some time helping Alfred, he expressed even more concern for Bruce. I can't stick around, made the mistake of listening to Gotham's people. Couldn't help wanting to you know, help everyone. A lot of damage was done, a lot of deaths. So many people were in need, normally Bruce would be helping alongside me. Whatever happened, it truly shattered him to his core." He sighed. "Once I returned. Both men were gone. It was almost 24 hours later, I didn't even realize it. So much work needed to be done."

"I'm sorry for what happened," Kate replied.

Clark nodded. "It's tragic. Sometimes I wish I stayed. Then I remember all those people in need. It was for the greater good. The hard choices, it's never easy of course."

"My team never mentioned that night. The deaths, destruction."

He nodded softly. "Yes, many people in my experience in Gotham have seemed to try forgetting those events. Many for that matter. I believe their resentful of Batman for leaving them after that crisis. Poisoned the well, it's saddening, Knowing all he did, risked, lost. I hope one day Gotham will honour him, same with you." Clark said with a bit of hope peaking through in his voice.

"I believe I should be heading out as well, seems Talia did. Lois might be worried and the boys. You know, we moved back to my hometown. Life's a mess, laid off, lost my mom. The boys being teens, you know." He said.

"I'm sorry for your loss and all that, how do you do?"

He turned around. "I have to, what a good parent, husband and superhero has to do." Superman cleared his though looking around the room now. "It was good working with you all." Superman said and shook Kate's hand and went over to the other team members to do the same. For Mary, it seemed like she might faint. He then left at last.

"Some alone time. I've just talked to Luke about something you might find interesting." Kate said looking at Ryan.

"Should I be excited or worried?"

"Excited," Kate said with a smile. "I've asked Luke to start preparing you to get a suit. A real one, not a hoodie and mask. It'll take time, so we've been thinking a compromise."

Luke continued. "So, Bruce had a few extra suit prototypes left behind from earlier days. Materials too. I think we should be able to work up a temporary suit."

"I'd very much like to design the real one, I do have artistic skills and I love drawing, I actually got a couple of sketches alright, just in case this ever happened. Which it is! Yay!" She said happily.

He nodded a little reluctantly but was happy from her reaction. "Here's the workup. For temporary."

It was mostly black, with slight hints of yellow. It had quite a bit protective looking parts on the upper area. The mask was a little more less free, she'd need to put her hair into a ponytail, which wasn't a big deal. It had boots as well, but nothing to special. Ultimately could sum up the suit. She was a bit disappointed but understood she'd be getting an upgrade, soon enough

"I um, like it!" She said not too believable.

"Yeah, it's not the best, design-wise, but hey. You'll not have to worry so much about getting shot, as badly. It's not as durable as mine. Still, mostly bulletproof." Kate said.

Ryan looked a little happier. "That is a relief, Whisper would kill me if I died. Which reminds me, I should likely go see her now. Good work and all that." She said awkwardly

"Before you go, I wanted to say you did great today. And we should start thinking of a codename, any ideas?" She asked.

"Yeah, I think I might got one," Ryan said with a smile and left.

"Hey, I think you did good work too!" Luke said as she left and she heard which made her smile more.

"Growing to like her?" Kate asked.

"Just a little bit," Luke said sarcastically.

"She's alright. Speaking of everyone heading out, I should get back to the clinic, so excited to have Sophie or Julia breathing down my neck again!" She said sarcastically, rolling her eyes.

"Are you planning on leaving too?" She asked, turning to Luke.

"Nope as usually, just playing on sticking down here."

"Good, well I get back I'm telling you everything I've learnt about the Many Arms of Death. Best to get it all on the database."

"Right, sounds good, but um, where are you going now? Haven't had enough craziness for one day?" He questioned.

She nodded. "Got a couple of things to attend to, firstly, gotta apologize to a friend and then find Alice. I regret not asking about The Many Arms of Death when I had the chance. I don't like it, but a talk with the devil might be the only way to get more intel."

Kate said and went back out once again.

"You had a crossover without me!?" Kara questioned coming to a rooftop with Batwoman, putting her hands on her hips judgmental.

"I didn't think of calling you. Figured you'd be busy."

"Well, I wasn't. Life's been, pretty calm actually. Kinda weird. Like the city doesn't need me anymore. Not sure how to describe it." Kara said scratching her head.

"My city definitely needs me. Doesn't feel like I'm going anywhere." Kate replied.

Kara nodded. "Yep, seems like you got a long road ahead. Seems like mine could be coming to an end. Could be nothing, just a weird feeling."

"You know, for the record, I thought of calling you."

"Well I am, one call away. Supergirl." She said smiling.

Kate couldn't help giving a smile back.

"Promise I'll call you first next time, to be fair, this mess started in Superman's city. Or ex-city?"

Kara looked up. "Yeah, true. Safe to say, your homes always have apart of you." She paused and heard some noise. "I heard a ruckus!" She exclaimed.

"Did you have to say ruckus?"

With a smirk Kara looked at Kate. "What do you say this is a job for?"

Kate smiled back. "Batwoman and Supergirl."

"Supergirl and Batwoman, world's finest! Race you!" Supergirl joked and zoomed off.

"Unfair!" Kate replied back and followed after her.

The two heroes went off into the night, to continue the never-ending battle against crime. Heroes would always be needed and always would be around.

Batwoman

In closing, I hope everyone had enjoyed this chapter, I'll admit, could be a little "bloated" in some aspects. I tried pretty hard on this one and edited a bit, I felt bad for my poor performance with my writing in part 1. Hopefully, this made up for it and things will get better as the series progresses. Along with now, I've got nothing/nobody to waste my time getting broken up with is excellent. I'm so "HAPPY" (sorry, it happened a day before posting, so unhappy natally cause I miss them and I feel stupid lol)

Response section

Hello, it's alright. You don't need to apologize over that and please don't feel guilty about that. I won't, it's okay. Thank you, I do appreciate all the assistance you have given over these past few months and hope very much that'll not stop. You clearly had a lot on your mind, which is understandable, and my chapter was quite late, being 6 or 7 weeks instead of the typical 2-3. I'm hoping that'll get better from now on again and please don't reduce the amount of posting. It was partially my fault, being so slow and having other craziness happening. Which appears to be dying off, which is good for the story. Not my life, but whatever, my life is a disaster lol.

Jacob Kane's relationship with Bruce Wayne in canon – That's good I predicted that correctly then.

Ryan should call out Jacob for accusing Batman for creating Gotham's villains – I agree completely with that and shall have her point that it. I think Jacob thinks it's easier blaming Batman and now Batwoman for it.

Fourth Character "Portrayal" Suggestion for Ryan's fellow orphan – Alrighty, thanks for your forth suggestion, I'll for sure use one of them. Thank you again for all the choices.

Scarecrow's Successor – Okay, thank you. I can agree with your thinking and think too it would've helped the show improve, having legacy takes on classic villains. It's unfortunate they've not done that. Also, thank you, I'm glad you think so, I was excited by that idea.

About Alfred in story – Yes it was, I was quite surprised to hear about that revelation. I'll agree with that, I mentioned why I thought that should've happened below which ties to Julia, or if it should've been an imposter pretending to be him. Whatever, it's fine. I would love that a lot, your ideas for how it would play out. I do think it would be lovely if Alfred still spoke with Julia, but of course never gave his location, which she respected. I didn't realize Bruce was alive in that series or what Alfred was a part of it. Your right, I was thinking the same in my headcanon for the series and my story, I can't imagine a would where Alfred would be abandoned by Bruce or one where he'd never make contact or anything. I like your explanation a lot and shall use it whenever this comes up.

In regards to Julia's status - I mainly thought about Alfried being taken by Safiyah (well, Silver-Infinite did first so it's their thought) due to giving Julia motivation to possibly be working for Safiyah, which the show had appeared to tease as a possibility. In 2x2, it seemed to be backing away from that? I'm really just confused what possible reason she could have helped her, even a little bit. I've had this bugging me for a bit now, from the details from season 1, it can be pieced together she was on the trail of Safiyah for some reason hunting "The Rifle" who she apparently killed off-screen. (Actually, last minutie facting checking revealed he's alive, this must have been an error on my part sorry, I'd say it's safe to say he'll reappear in my season then) She later returned to Gotham and said she on a mission or something, but Luke later says she was blacklisted by her agency for working with someone or doing something, of course being Safiyah related. Along with that, she murderers her intergetores in episode 18 when Kate was kidnapped then seems to have a call with Safiyah or someone working for them who wants Luke's father's journal. Or wanted I guess. Doesn't appear to matter anymore. My confusion comes from her motivation and her plan here. You seem to think she's good in the future which is fine, I'm just trying to wonder how to use all these details.

My guess would be, Julia went to kill the Rifle and Safiyah cause they wanted Batwoman dead in season 1. That naturally went wrong and she started stringing along Safiyah to try to protect the team, but ultimately cost her reputation cause she had to pretend to work for her, perhaps doing a couple of unrelated shady jobs for her before being sent to Gotham for these reasons. Assuming this is the explanation I go with, I'll assume the team and Kate will be upset. They'll be a little skeptical if she can be trusted, but they'll get over that soon enough. I think too Julia would confess to this while they're in Coryana, most likely after trouble arises and she's exposed or hinted to have been working against Kate but explains the truth as said above. Another speculation would be Sophie would learn about her alternatives along with Batwoman being revealed, just another bombshell for her then adding to her life being flipped on it's head, or rather what she knew.

If you have different thoughts, I'd like to hear them. In all honesty, I don't partially like the clues left for whatever Julia is up to, it feels messy and is a little hard to deal with this plot point, I've thought of dropping it, but I feel that'd be lazy of me and possibly upset some readers who wanted a conclusion to that. Hoping this whole section made sense, I've been having a hard time putting into words and have been slightly avoiding the subject.

About Brian Krauser having his last words with Jacob before dying – I like that a lot, it's great stuff, I'll for sure be adding that and using it to strengthen Jacob's character arc. You've had a lot of great ideas for his arc in season 3, thank you very much.

About Agent Proctor – That makes a lot of sense for him doing that and taking the role as the one who nearly kills Ryan, I like too Commissioner Montoya saving Ryan at the last moment too. Yes, your right I shall give him a first name as of 2x10, my current one would be Joseph, no real reasoning. Just like how it sounds, searching his name in google only brings up an actor from the 19th century. Alright, fair enough, I think it'd be best to figure that out later, see how things progress.

About your speculation regarding the final fight between Batman and Joker – Alight, I shall go forward with this in the milestone episode.

About Jessica Dent Becoming Two-Face in Season 5 – I think that makes a lot of sense and can agree with it. I personally figured it would end up going like that, which works and should make things more interesting.

In regards to Duela Dent – Alright, I can agree with that a bit, I guess she is still pretty young in the canon. Your right, I thought about that as well, I already thought of an "Epilogue" for the series, and I think that's an interesting idea, I'm not sure if I'll go with it or not, we'll see when we get to the end, which is pretty far away (I like the nod)

Why Jacob Kane's Cliffhanger in S3E2 is important – I agree completely with you, it would make a lot of sense and it does seem critical for his development and arc.

Which Character tells Kate that Mary Almost Allows Jacob to Die – Alright, I assume it would make most sense for it be Luke, as I assume they'll get into a relationship eventually and have a friendship now. I assume he wouldn't be happy seeing Mary willing to do such a thing as that and knows her well enough that it's her being in a good mindset and would surely tell Kate.

About the Batmobile – Yeah, it's possible it was that, true enough as well, it was surely, different. Also, yeah I can agree with that, Kate does seem to love her bike, wonder if she should get some upgrades for it. She's been driving it in the tv show so far, it would be a little interesting to see how it would work with Ryan using a Batmobile. I do recall I'm pretty sure my version said it was dismantled, so it'd have to be a new version, maybe like the series too.

Season 3 Ideas – My thought is that Black Mask and the False Face Society should be the opening villains for the first couple of episodes of the season; with Black Mask being arrested and the False Face Society being forced back underground as a result of Kate's return as Batwoman in S3E4. The main Season 3 villain, I feel, should be based on Rumor, a villain from the TV cartoon series, "The Batman," but your story's version would have completely different motives for becoming a villain. Also, you must remember that Brian Krauser (being that he's the secondary antagonist of Season 3) is getting help from a guy who has access to a lot of advanced stuff; which he needs to fulfill his vision for Crows Security. As such, I feel that Black Mask doesn't quite fit the bill here.===================

Season 3 Ideas – Alrighty, I guess that does make sense, I'll do that then. I'd make sense Kate would be able to bring them down quite easily, I do assume Ryan will have made some progress in fighting them back, but having her returned must bring victory. I think too Krauser might have some anger towards Jacob for not being able to stop Black Mask's gang, adding further to his taking over. I think I could make Rumor work as the villain, I do recall that character and I'll try to make different motives for becoming a villain. Yes, your right I do remember how important that is, I think he should work better in that position to help Brain Krauser complete his goal. Fair enough, I can agree with that.

In regards to Rumor - I'm going to make a tentative version of that character. I'm willing to accept any input or changes. This is a rough version of the ideas.

My tentative projection of the character.

His family was all murdered or hurt while living in Gotham throughout his life, his parents, siblings, even himself all victims. They are rich, I assume have some company that specializes in weapons/tech that of course would help Brain and the Crows. He's hoping to have them use this power to eliminate all the criminals in Gotham, maybe even have himself a personal army by assisting them and allowing them to gain power. With him in The Crow's good graces, he's got plans now to open up a blacksite prison to hold the criminals as he explains, "Arkham and Blackgrate continue to fail to hold." It'd be like the one in The Batman show he had during that appearance. He'd be secretly treating them miserably and trying to learn their secrets. His character would be interested in learning about all secrets or trying to confirm rumours he learns about.

Or could be trying to spread rumours making false information. I'm not sure. I do wonder too if he'd have that special suit from the carton? Unsure if he'd be a physical threat or one that's using their resources to their advantage.

Apologies if this is random, it's quite tentative and unclear on my part. Thought I'd share my rough draft.

Harper's brother – Oh yes, that makes sense, sorry I think I forget he wasn't in Gotham during the present of season 3. I'll remember to have that be part of his true introduction into a future season where he'd appear in person.

Maggie Sawyer – Thank you! I've been excited to introduce her into the series and deal with their relationship/partnership. I admit I've worked on a police related series in my spare time over the last 2 years with a married lesbian couple that has a rocky, but loving relationship, so it's a subject I've handed before and feel comfortable with. Anyways, sorry for tangent, I agree with your thoughts and think that sounds great. I'm looking forward to your posting, take your time. I'm looking very much forward to bringing her in, I'll remind in my mind she'll still be a cop coming to join Montoya's new unit, but or course secretly The Question as she doesn't trust the law as much anymore and such, I do think that's important for her character personally and I do think it'd be good seeing more of the GCPD and a different look at Montoya. It's alright, I'm excited to hear what you have to share, but take your time if you need it and feel free to post whenever.

Your complete and utter disappointment – I'm sorry it's disappointed you so heavily, it is disappointing after more thought I do see the potential this series could've had. (Taking your later post into account, hopefully, it'll get a second chance if Batwoman tanks) (*And a few days later Batwoman got renewed with everything else, no mention of new shows, maybe still a chance? I'm not sure) It is quite upsetting taking all that into account with it being a single year, after the Crisis too which seemed to promise more stories for the universe, now united fully. I'm very sorry it's gotten to that point of losing faith in the serieses. That's good I guess, hopefully, it didn't cause any damage or anything and made you feel a little better getting your frustrations out. That's good this story gives you solace and your assisting which you have done a lot of which I'm grateful for. It's strange they did end up cancelling considering it as you said brought good ratings, Batwoman is going very low ratings and somehow is continuing along, very strange choices and unfortunate if they were keeping false hope. It's a pretty horrible situation for the Arrowverse fans. I do understand why your so angry over this news, you've seemed to be here at the start of this from Smallville I assume, so it's been a long journey of it growing and growing only to fall apart seemingly. So I do understand your place of anger. Hopefully, things will start looking up again.

Even More Bad News – That is too bad, I wasn't looking to much forward to it, but I would've like to seen it anyways. That is more unfortunate, at least for Batwoman and Superman & Lois still could get one another year, Supergirl won't, it would've been interesting seeing them have to teamup and her thoughts on Kate.

Tentative S2E10 - I liked the title you suggested as always, I'll be using it and the summary is great as well and I'll use it. You have a way with titles and summaries for plots. Please feel free to post more suggestions, I planned on having a bit of thoughts shared, but unforeseen things have made me have to cut some things I wanted to include. I mention that again below. I love the tentative summary and will use it for my base for starting episode 10, I might be waiting a few days due to unforeseen things before starting, so feel free for as many suggestions as possible, anything on your mind.

In regards to the "funky" timeline - (I erased a larger response here, I felt it was unnecessary) I wanted to say thank you for how fast you came up with a potential fix to this issue, I'm very thankful you clearly thought up a great explanation in such a short timeframe. I don't think I'd use it and was going with your original thoughts, don't stress about having to change anything due to the series error, you're more observant than the people working on the show which is nice. Thank you very much for the support as always.

In regards to my handling of the flashbacks - I hope they were done well, I was a little worried of screwing them up like last time which I'm very sorry about. I was skeptical of doing so, but I was padding the word count in all honesty. Which is now ironic with this chapter's word count. I tried my best to follow the original thoughts you shared, I used them as notes and tried to follow them the best of my abilities.

Regarding Visper Fairchild - I hope that segment was what you hopped for, I added in another Motal Kombat joke I'm sure you might have caught, I hope you liked it.

Regards to the detail - Thank you for adding it in, I wasn't at the point of her leaving, so I'm grateful to have gotten this in time. I liked this moment quite a lot so yes it was helpful (: (In all honesty, I contemplated, rushing out the chapter for Feb 7th, I decided it'd be best to take my time and edit part 2 to be the best it could be, with the time given. I thought part 1 fell short in someways so that's why and I wanted to fit in all the great details you suggested, so hopefully everything has worked out making part 2 pay off for the wait time)

Trying something new now, I'm going to start giving my projections of the next fewish episodes for future chapters. I guess this one would be regarding episode 11-13. I thought this would be an interesting idea to try experimenting with, just to have a clearer vision of this season. I admit, I've got a clearer picture of season 3, more so then this one, which is nice to be ahead, but I do want to not have missteps here. I've got a clearer picture for the last few episodes.

I've got no names for the episodes, I might use one of the fun ones you suggested in an earlier chapter. And I apologize for the poor structure, I'm feeling a little stressed and miserable at the time of posting, so I wanted to get it out before this feeling gets worse. So, sadly the following below hasn't gotten as much effort as the above for editing. Hopefully, it'll still be helpful and next posting I'll be more clearheaded, I can guarantee that.

Episode 11: The team is split as Kate and Julia head to Coryana following on a critical lead in unravelling the mysteries behind Safiyah, along with the mysterious organization The Many Arms Of Death. Meanwhile, back in Gotham, the team must face off against seemingly an old chilly foe of Batman, but something isn't right once they start digging in. Sophie senses something is off inside the Crows as secrets are clearly being kept under her nose.

Possible story points:

-I assume once getting to the island they'd be on high alert as it's Safiyah's main place. I'd suspect Kate and Julia would get spotted, of course, they'd try hard to keep under the radar, but it'd not work completely likely getting into some conflict with some of her guards or people, whichever would make the most sense. Perhaps The Rifle could be part of them being hunted and have some hate for Julia, for interfering with plans or something?

- As mentioned in one of the earliest posting, Nora Fries, you wanted her to be included at some point. I think now would be a fun point to put her in, just for a couple of episodes, 11 and 12 for Ryan to handle without Kate's assistance. I figured it would be interesting having her face off against a villain, who like herself has yet to reach her potential of what she'll become.

- Ideas for Mrs. Freeze.

- Backstory and motivation.

She was frozen by her husband to protect her from getting caught by the GCPD. Why? She's a murder and a little unstable. This is because of an illness affecting her mind perhaps? I know it's typically her physical health, but I figured I'd switch things up and she seemed a little unstable in the Crossover.

OR, that was a bogious story made up by her husband who was a controlling monster who couldn't accept her trying to have free will without him. (I personally don't like that one as much, but whatever)

Regardless, he's dead. She killed him and was sent to Arkham where she escaped. Or maybe something unrelated lead to his death, I'd figure he must be dead.

She's still normal at this point as we saw her last, I think a minor reveal would be Safiyah had given her a little bit of her husband's technology or a lab to create her own freeze related weapons and such. Or maybe she found one of Victor's old hideouts perhaps, and is using everything left behind.

Anyways, the reason Safiyah is using Nora now is to distract the team and bring out Batwoman in theory. Of course, she'd not be around, and she'd deduce where Kate must have gone to. Nora naturally has her own goals in mind.

During her criminal exploits, she wants to recreate the accident that happened to her husband for herself, which is the end goal. (It's successfully by the end of episode 12, where she's brought back to Arkham)

Reasons I can think of are.

It's because she realizes she's actually sick and dying. Could be tied to that mental illness as well. She's crazy and wants to be an immortal ice goddess? (Kinda a joke one lol, thought I'd leave that in, hopefully, it made you laugh or something) Expanding onto A, just assume that, but with this as well. She's learned she's bisexual and has fallen in love with a woman, so along with being sick, the bonus of they can be together forever. If that'll work or if you think of something better, I'll gladly wish to hear.

-She'd be robbing banks or jewelry stories, trying to get enough money and resources to gain a better standing for her to commit bigger crimes. Along with paying off possible debts? If you have any other thoughts, feel free to share.

Finally, assume the details above apply to episode 12 as well. Spread out between the two, this could be structured better to reflect that, sorry.

I hope this all wasn't out of left field. I figured I'd post this now instead of the episode before. I had intended to mention this, among other things, before life got crazy back in December. Of course, that didn't happen. Sorry about that. Of course, I'd love to hear all your thoughts if you have any alternative takes for how the following episodes should play out.

Episode 12: Kate deals with the revelation revealed by Julia, making her unsure if she can truly trust her, especially while in Safiyah's homeland. Back with the team, Nora proves to be a formidable enemy as her motivations become clear and her connection to The Many Arms Of Death. The Crows soon get involved, and things get complicated as Montoya tries to keep them at bay, as they're not looking for a prisoner.

(I'll admit, I've kinda struggled a little with ideas for this one, so assume it's hugely tentative and going to have a lot of changes and with your input) Episode 13: The team is back together. At last, Kate returns with more knowledge concerning The Many Arms of Death and what Safiyah has up her sleeve, but can't relax as she's confronted by her enemy. Meanwhile? (No clue at the moment, sorry)

Why the "Black Lives Matter" episode wouldn't happen while Kate is away with Julia - I think it would be more impactful if it's during while Kate is available, so it'd show that Kate honestly does trust Ryan and will offer some help, which she'll accept. I think that would be the better choice to show how she's become part of the team.

Oh, final last-minute warning. I swear something always goes wrong when I prepare to finish up and upload. I'm having a breakup. Obviously, that's upsetting. Fortunately, I guess, it might mean I'll get back to high progress again, now I have nothing going on in my life once again. Or I'll completely crash if I don't get the next chapter out in, let's say 5-6 weeks at most, be concerned. If I get it out in 2-3 weeks, then all should be fine. Well, I'm not fine at all, but my writing is lol.