[Tom Hendricks POV]
As I arrived at the theater, I noticed the redhead standing next to Raven seemed oddly familiar. When I shook her hand, I saw recognition in her eyes, but she expertly brushed it off, concealing something.
Call it paranoid or whatever, but I like keeping tabs on faces, this was Gotham and it would be stupid to let your guard down, you never know who's watching. As we walked into the theater, I asked myself where I had seen her before and I got my answer.
My thoughts flashed back to the redhead who randomly approached me at the library and was witness to me disappearing with Joker. That was when most mysteries I had ignored for so long finally came together.
Rae said she was a friend and gave hints of her being a superhero. From the news reporters back then, Robin and Batgirl had ensured the safety of the civilians back at the library. Batgirl was a redhead. The random redhead approaching me out of nowhere and claiming to see me at that library a lot when I hadn't even noticed her, the visit from Batgirl after handing Robin's ass over to him for the second time.
As we got our tickets, a sly grin crept across my lips, I was sure she probably had her guard up currently and might tell Raven all I did to Robin. I won't be able to hide the fact that I have powers from her for long anymore, it's probably best she found out soon and not from Barbara who might twist her mind into seeing me as the bad guy because of what I did to Robin, her former teammate.
Okay yes, maybe I am the bad guy, from their vantage point at least. But that doesn't mean anyone has the right to twist her perspective of me without her actually getting to know me. Later on, we got some popcorn and some soda before proceeding to see the movie.
Rae sat by my side and Barbara by her side, kind of fair I think. Having both of them by my side and with me in the middle might seem like I was trying to run an harem or something, also I didn't want to spend more time with Barbara otherwise she would start questioning me personally and awkwardly like a detective right in front of Rae just to get me to say something that I wouldn't want Rae to hear. Neither the less, I don't give a fuck what she does. I just want to enjoy my date and ignore the third wheel and her possibly conspiracy plot.
Ughh*
Rachel groaned in pain as she reached her hands to her head like she was in pain. She held on to it like it like she was having a serious migraine.
"Rae."
"Rachel."
We both said at the same time. "Rae are you Okay?" I asked with concern clearly audible in my voice.
"Rachel, what's wrong?" Barbara asked.
"I suddenly feel a huge wave of panic and fear from the streets not too far from here." She said with one hand by the side of her head and with her eyes closed.
"What could possibly be going on out there?" Barbara asked as he phone beeped to life. She grabbed it while I tried to calm Rae down as she did her best to block it out.
"Rachel, we've got to go." Barbara said, clearly showing the urgency of the situation.
I casually brushed my fingers through my hair, then with a low tone, I said. "Gwen, give me an update on what is going on in town right now." keeping a calm demeanor as I spoke to my AI through my smart watch.
"Okay sir. According to the police scanners, it was reported that Scarecrow had released his fear toxin into the heart of the city and people have become hostile towards one another as they see themselves as nightmare-like monsters. The city is in a state of panic and everyone is disoriented. It also seems to be spreading rapidly." And with that, she ended her report.
"I'm so sorry Tom, but I have to go now." Rae said. "There's havoc in the city right now and I can't sit back and do nothing."
"Don't worry about it Rae. One of the perks of dating heroes, you just gotta let em go because lives are always counting on y'all most of the time." I replied as I reached out my hand, took a step closer and pulled her onto my arms for a warm hug. "Be careful out there." I added before giving her a peck on her cheek which eventually turned red the moment I planted a kiss on it.
"I…I will." Rae replied as she levitated off the ground, giving me one last look before flying off to go catch up with Barbara.
One thing I knew about villains was that they are likely to have one messed up plan to hold the hero or vigilante by the throat so they make their escape while the heroes and their merry crew would be busy with a wild goose chase which might not actually be a bluff. In this case, a bomb would be the best option to make a slippery escape from Batman because he would prioritize the lives of the civilians.
I reached for my left ear and tapped to the side of my portable headphone as Gwen came online. "Gwen, scan the city and search for any composite of explosives hidden in public areas of the city that are often frequented by people." I commanded. "Okay sir, on it." She replied.
"While you are on that, call the house, I need to speak with Leo. Then give me feedback the moment you have something." I added.
"Calling residence, now." She replied.
"Hey Leo, It's Tom." My voice suddenly reverberated through the speakers of the house like it was hunted, I could only imagine the looks on both of their faces.
"Sup kid, you scared the living shit out of us right there. How about a little warning next time." Leo said.
"I'll work on that when I get back." I said while I walked towards my car as I prepared to head out the moment Gwen gave me a feedback on the bombs. For whatever goes on in the city was none of my concern unless it had the potential of affecting my business or me directly, a couple of bombs going off in the city might be bad for business. Also, I know the Bat and his merry crew are on it but wouldn't think of the possibility of a bomb since they are preoccupied by the distraction.
"Better. The news said something major was going on in town as we speak. Bringing your date home tonight?" He asked, portraying a relaxed and teasy mood, I could almost see their smudged faces as Jason chipped in. "Don't forget to get a condom on your way home!" They both burst into laughter.
"Shut up perverts. And no, shit got outta hand really quickly and she had to leave." I replied, trying to ignore their remarks as there was no point to humor them any further.
"Oh, what a bummer." Leo said, just before I heard him gulping down a drink which I was sure would probably be a bottle of beer.
"Hope Jason is staying put and not causing any trouble that might need my attention later on, I already have a lot of work that needs it tonight."
"Missing your kidnaped victim already? It's quite a crib you've got here, I don't mind staying a bit longer. Ain't gonna cause any trouble for you, for now at least. Jason chipped in.
Beep*
A notification from Gwen came in and my headphones extended, turning into my high-tech glasses which seemed like a cool visor. I looked at the display within the glasses and it portrayed a map of Gotham City of which four spots were marked. They were the locations of the bomb.
"Neither of you should leave the house until I return home and confirm it is safe." I commanded as I entered my car, my engine roared to life as I started the engine before zooming off.
"Why, what's happening?" Leo asked, while I drove, I still had the call going on. Wouldn't hurt to talk and drive, most people might say it was risky and was prone to accident, but I believe living dangerously makes life more exciting.
"Scarecrow released a potent toxin at the heart of the city. Now everybody is fighting anybody, trying to kill a monster conjured up from their nightmares without realizing it might be even their own kid."
"Damn, that's scary." Leo articulated with a humoric whistle.
"I need to go teach that bastard a clear lesson myself." Said the short tempered Jason who I could only assume was ready to gear up at any moment.
"Stand down Jase, just let Batman handle it."
"You know I don't have to listen to you right?" Jason said. "No, you don't. But you've got to think for yourself on this. Would you rather show up as a rogue vigilante who appeared in the city months ago should just pop out of nowhere and join the Bat in saving the city? Or just let them do their job while you put your energy into other things knowing they are more than capable of saving the city themselves?"
"Um…when you put it that way, I choose the latter. Although I would like to get into the heat of the action myself."
"Good, stay put. I'll be back soon enough."
…
Amidst the chaos that engulfed the city, Black Mask orchestrated a clandestine gathering with Mr. Falcone, discussing the emergence of a formidable new adversary known only as Ghost. Veiling the meeting in secrecy, Black Mask revealed tantalizing fragments of information, enticing Falcone to heed his words. The tension in the air was palpable as Falcone cautiously accepted the invitation, bringing along his most loyal men to safeguard against any unforeseen treachery.
In the dimly lit private room, the air was thick with tension, and the atmosphere oozed with the sinister essence of the criminal underworld. Black Mask, with his distinctive black skull face, exuded an air of cunning and menace. Sitting across from him was Mr Falcone, the seasoned mob boss, who commanded respect with his confident demeanor.
The room itself was draped in shadows, adorned with lavish furnishings, and the walls were adorned with dark paintings, depicting scenes of crime and power. The only source of light came from the dim red glow of the Cuban cigars held by both men, casting eerie shadows on their faces.
Black Mask leaned forward, his piercing eyes fixed on Falcone, as he attempted to pry out the information he desired. "Falcone, you and I both know that Ghost's sudden rise to power is no coincidence. I need to know who he really is. You've been his partner in this venture; surely you have some insight."
Falcone's expression remained stoic as he responded, "You give me too much credit, Black Mask. Ghost keeps his identity well-guarded even from me. All I know is that he is a master strategist and efficient at maintaining control over the criminal operations in Gotham."
Not one to be easily discouraged, Black Mask changed his approach. "Very well, Falcone. If you can't reveal Ghost's identity, then at least help me get in touch with him. I'm sure you have a way to reach him."
Falcone chuckled dryly, "Oh, I do have a way, but it's not that simple. Ghost contacts those he deems worthy. If he sees value in you, he'll reach out to you, not the other way around."
The tension in the room grew thicker as the two crime lords faced off. Black Mask's frustration was evident, but he was not one to back down easily. "Falcone, you must see the opportunity in collaborating with me to bring down Ghost. Together, we can ensure our dominance over Gotham's criminal underworld."
Falcone leaned back, his eyes narrowing as he regarded Black Mask. "You're ambitious, I'll give you that. But Ghost has proved himself to be more dangerous than we think. Joining forces to take him down won't be an easy task."
A sly smile crept onto Black Mask's face. "I thrive on challenges, Falcone. Imagine the power we could wield together. Think about it carefully. If we can successfully sweep the rug from right underneath him and take him down, we could make an instant claim to his power and resources." Black Mask tried to entice Falcone who took a slow but long drag of his ciger.
"If." Falcone emphasized. "I know it seems like a long shot but trust me, we can make this work if we put our resources into work." Black Mask pressed on.
Falcone knew that in that business, trust was a commodity only fools purchased. Yes, it would be in his favor if he betrayed Ghost and took full control of his business along and with the others Ghost had acquired. But Black Mask could plot to kill him the moment they took Ghost out of the picture.
Then again, he thought of how valuable of an asset Ghost was to his business and how he had reduced the amount of unnecessary bloodshed over power struggle in the criminal underworld. People fight over territories but Ghost had claimed a lot of them and kept businesses under his command. While they each thirst for power, they were okay with him pulling most of the strings from behind the scene because he doesn't intrude on anyone's business or try to take any by force even though he had the manpower and resources of doing so.
He had gained respect and climbed through the rank. Falcone's fear was that no one knew who Ghost really was and that anonymity was power itself. Also anyone who dared to do him wrong or try betraying their deal, ends up dead as he sends his top assassins to assassinate them and their entire crew immediately, then take control of their business and space in the underground.
The thought of betraying such a figure sent a chill down his spine. He was ruthless but Ghost was as cold hearted in the game as any of them could be, even more ruthless than Black Mask was. Black Mask was impulsive but Ghost was calm and collected, the few conversations he had held with him, no matter the shocking information or report, he never got flustered or weavered even the slightest.
"Thinking of taking down Ghost is madness. You haven't even gotten the chance to study your prey and you already think you could take him on." Falcone said to Black Mask who's expression became more furious as he realized Falcone had no intention of helping him with the task.
"What happened to you? You used to be known as a ruthless mob boss here in Gotham, now you answer to some coward that isn't even brave enough to show his face."
"You've got two things wrong." Falcone said as he dropped his glass of whisky on the table and took another drag of cigar. "First, I don't answer to no one. We are business partners with mutual goals."
Black mask cocked up an eyebrow as he heard that, but Falcone continued. "Secondly, he isn't a coward as you say. Try messing with him or his business and you might not live to see what happens to you and your business."
"Is that a threat?" Black Mask asked with anger in his voice. "Not a threat, more like a warning." With that, Falcone stood up and one of his men opened the door. But before he left the room he stopped at the door and turned To Black Mask whose fury was clearly visible in his facial expression. "Remember there's this saying, a word is enough for the wise." He placed his cigar back into his mouth before walking out the door with his men.
…
[Meanwhile]
In the heart of the city, a menacing haze of fear enveloped the once vibrant streets, courtesy of Scarecrow's toxic brew. Raven and Batgirl, determined to quell the escalating chaos, worked in harmony to minimize the turmoil inflicted upon the innocent civilians. With a resolute cry, Raven channeled her mystical incantation, "Azarath Metrion Zinthos," wielding her otherworldly powers to isolate and shield some of the terrified bystanders from the grip of the hallucinogenic illusions.
Meanwhile, Batgirl's nimble figure darted through the eerie shadows, her determination was clear in her actions. Methodically, she incapacitated those under the sway of Scarecrow's dreadful toxin, employing her martial prowess to render them unconscious but unharmed.
High above the chaos, Scarecrow revealed in his diabolical creation, perched atop a towering building like a malevolent puppeteer pulling the strings of fear. The wicked glint in his eyes reflected his twisted satisfaction, wishing his former ally, Joker, were alive to witness the nightmarish spectacle. He chuckled maniacally, intoxicated by the malevolence he had unleashed upon Gotham.
But amidst the malevolence, a chilling metallic sound disrupted the wicked ambiance as it seemed to have hit a wall. Batman, the Dark Knight, acended up to Scarecrow with an enigmatic aura, his grapple gun gracefully propelling him through the night air. His indomitable presence sent shivers down Scarecrow's spine, the fear he sought to instill now mirrored back at him.
On the dimly-lit rooftop, the moon's silvery glow cast an eerie ambiance as Batman landed gracefully, his cape billowing behind him. Scarecrow's gaunt figure stood before him, a chilling smirk playing on his lips as he attempted to reach for his pocket. Batman, ever vigilant, reacted swiftly, hurling a batarang with pinpoint accuracy to collide with Scarecrow's hand, halting his sinister intent.
"Not so fast," Batman's voice resonated with an unyielding determination as he held another batarang poised, ready for any further provocation.
Scarecrow's eyes widened with a mix of pain and admiration as he examined the bat-shaped projectile lodged in his hand. "Quite a set of quick hands you've got there," he remarked, his voice laced with an unsettling blend of awe and madness. "You seem to have regained yourself completely, how were you able to come up with an antidote so quickly?" he inquired, trying to comprehend Batman's resilience.
"That should be the least of your worries right now. You should be more concerned about the fate that awaits you - a return to a solitary ward in Arkham, where they will keep an even closer eye on you," Batman retorted, his firm grip on justice evident in his words.
Scarecrow's laughter echoed through the night air, a cacophony of madness and malevolence. "Hahaha, I'm not the one who should be worried about anything, Bats, but you should," he taunted, his eyes glinting with an unhinged fervor.
Batman's expression remained stoic, his eyes narrowed behind the cowl, unyielding in the face of Scarecrow's threats. "What do you mean?" he questioned, determined to unravel the sinister plot before him.
With a sinister gleam in his eyes, Scarecrow revealed his grand scheme, his voice dripping with malice. "What I mean is, I've planted four bombs in specific regions of the city. The moment I press this button," he brandished a remote, "it all goes Kaboom! A massive release of my newly improved fear toxin will drench everyone in the stench of fear."
Fear flickered across Batman's face, not for his own safety, but for the innocent civilians who would become unwitting victims of Scarecrow's terror. He knew the mad doctor relished in tormenting others, inflicting his twisted vision of fear upon the world.
Unyielding and unwavering, Batman's mind raced, calculating the best course of action. His resolve to protect Gotham and its people intensified.
As Batman reached for his comms so he could convey the message to Alfred so he searched for traces of bomb signatures that might lead to the location of the planted bombs, he heard a not so funny exclamation.
"Oopsy." Scarecrow said as he pressed the button. "What have you done?" Batman yells as he darts at the doctor, tackled him to the ground and tied him up.
"Hahaha." It's too late Batman, it's already been done. Batman furrowed his brows in anger and in suspense as to the disaster that was about to be unleashed unto the city.
Want more chapters? Kindly visit my to read ahead./Maverick_DaSupreme