Rewrite the Stars

And just like that, she was gone. As if the night couldn't get any worse. The operation to finally nail Rupert Thorn had been a bust. The insider intel was fake as the mole on the inside turned coat or died. No one really knew for sure. When Dick arrived at the docks, there was no Thorn, no mafia crew, no illegal weapons. It was all a setup. He didn't expect to return home also to find no Zatanna.

It was bizarre. Things had been going great. They had slipped into a routine of sorts. Spend the night and get coffee in the morning. Crack jokes, talk about their day, and just be happy. As far as Dick knew, she didn't have anything pressing. Something must have come up. He called immediately, worried that it might be an emergency. Voicemail. He called again. Voicemail. One more time. Line disconnected. What was wrong? What had he done wrong?

In the morning, Dick swung over to her apartment. Empty. Completely barren. As if no one had lived there before. No couch. No bed. Not even the little herb garden that Zatanna was working on by the windowsill. The building manager said that for whatever reason, Zatanna paid out the rest of her lease and immediately ended the contract. But there was no explanation as to how she moved out within hours. Something was wrong.

"Bruce?" Dick called out once he arrived at Wayne Towers.

"Good morning, Dick. I didn't expect to see you here so early."

"I'm getting worried about something."

"Is it Thorn? I admit I'm a little annoyed myself. We're stuck at square one again."

"No not that. Did Zatanna renew her contract yet?"

"Uh no. Not yet. I don't believe so."

Bruce sat down at his computer to open his inbox. While there was an email from her, it was not one they were expecting.

"Strange…" Bruce commented.

"What?"

"She invoked her opt-out clause terminating the contract effective immediately."

"DAMMIT!" Dick slammed his fist on the desk.

"Dick!"

"I'm sorry. I'm sorry," he collapsed on the guest chair completely deflated.

"What's going on?"

"I-I don't know. Zatanna just left. She's gone without a trace."

"That's strange. Have you been having problems?"

"We were happy, I think. I just- she's so special, Bruce. She lights up any room she walks into. She's so witty and fun. I thought I was making her happy. And now she's just…gone."

"She must've had a reason."

"And not tell me about it? Is she in danger?"

"I don't have all the answers for you, Dick. I'm sorry."

"I just wish she said goodbye, at least."

Dick buried his face into his hands. He hadn't slept a wink since the failed sting operation. Trying to find Zatanna had left him in a panic and there was nowhere left to turn. Before Bruce could offer some advice, loud police sirens blared down the street. The pair got up and looked out the window spying at least six squad cars racing west. They shared a glance. No words were spoken. Just silent understanding.

Weeks had gone by and still no news of Zatanna. No new shows. No tours. Not a single shred of proof that she even existed. Dick had stopped going to Jitters. It was their place, where things had begun to sparkle. He couldn't bear going back and pretend everything was normal, even if Starbuck was way too overpriced and tasted too watery. As a police detective, Dick prided himself on being able to solve puzzles, find motives, and work backwards at a crime scene. But what was he supposed to do when literally no evidence existed to help him.

"Dude, when was the last time you shaved? Or got a haircut?" Wally asked as Dick was gradually enveloped by the couch.

"I dunno."

"What was the last hot meal you ate?"

"Really? I know food's always on your mind, but really?"

"Dick, I'm just concerned."

"I'm fine," he growled as he sat up.

"Oily disheveled hair. Unkept stubble. Droopy bags under your eyes. Oh sure, you are the pinnacle of humankind, Dick Grayson," Artemis rolled her eyes as she came in with a tray of sparkling water.

"Very funny, Arty," Dick mumbled as he reached for a glass.

"Dick c'mon. Even Brucely's concerned about how dour you're being," Wally added as his and Artemis's dog waddled over and nuzzled Dick's leg.

"Yea. You were never this distraught when you and Babs broke up."

"Well, I mean that's different. Babs didn't just leave in the dead of night. She and I were just at different points in life, and we just couldn't make it work. It was amicable. So, I was just traught."

"Ugh again with your unwords," Artemis shook her head.

"Zee liked them…"

"Look, buddy, maybe it's for the best," Wally chimed in, "Maybe this is fate trying to tell you she isn't the one for you right now."

"Screw fate!" Dick stood up, "None of this makes sense! We were doing so well! Every waking moment I just wanted to be around her. And I think she felt the same."

"Dick how can you even be sure."

"I just. I can just feel it, Artemis. The way her eyes light up when she sees me. No matter how tired she was after a show, she'd perk up and smile when I walked towards her. You can't fake that kind of emotion."

"Dick, she's a stage performer. She literally makes a living faking emotions."

"Not the ones she showed me," he huffed turning towards the wall.

"Dick, I love you like a brother, truly, but maybe you're still feeling the sting of being left behind," Artemis stood up to place a hand on his shoulder.

"Yea man. I get it, y'know. Sorta. I mean…"

"Wally…" Artemis sent a glare.

"Right. Sorry."

"I just…" Dick stammered, "I just really wish she said goodbye."

He felt like shit. This was the last place he should be visiting. But he was desperate. Sometimes one must swallow their pride and do what needed to be done.

*DING*

The elevator doors opened revealing a cozy living room. It wasn't one Dick was unfamiliar with. Quite memorable in fact. After all, how could one forget about an apartment inside a grand clock tower.

"Hey," she greeted him.

It had felt like no time had passed between them. She sat on her couch in her green sweater. Her glasses pinched the bridge of her nose. She had a book in hand and a steaming cup of tea to the side. Her bright red hair was tied up in a messy bun. There were freckles dotting her cheeks. It was sunny out after all.

"Hey Babs."

"Come here."

Barbara got up and hugged Dick tightly. It didn't take long to read how exhausted and defeated he was. Granted he looked awful and dirty anyway. She brushed some of his long hair back running her fingers through the strands a bit, kinda like she used to.

"You look like you need something warm to drink."

"Uhhh you don't have to…"

"Dick please. You're a guest and you're upset. Such circumstances dictate that you need a hot beverage," she kissed him on the cheek before guiding him to the couch.

Despite the warm welcome, Dick still felt rather uneasy about his motivation for visiting. It wasn't a request one could simply ask one's ex-girlfriend after all. But at this point, he had run out of options. Moments later, Barbara returned with a steaming mug of hot cocoa.

"With one big marshmallow. Just how you like it," she smiled.

"Thanks."

Taking the mug, Dick sipped the warm drink letting the floating marshmallow tickle his nose. Barbara meanwhile sat next to him on the couch picking up right where she left off in her book. They sat in silence together. No prodding. No questions. Just Babs reading her book and Dick sipping on cocoa. Of course, the gears of the clock tower still turned and clicked, but they had long since tuned that noise out. Looking around, Dick reminisced slightly about how things were when he and Barbara were together. How many times did he spend the night and use her shower? How many times did he make her breakfast? How many movie nights did they spend projecting the flick onto the big clock face just because it was cool? It was nice.

"How are things?" he asked.

"Good."

"Anything exciting at the library?"

"Dick, it's a library."

"So that means," he smirked.

"You bet there were exciting things!" she perked up, "We just got a new shipment of new Agatha Christies! Oh! And the newest editions of the Britannicas came in! Oh, they look so nice. And you won't believe what Margaret did!"

"What haha."

"She put Ender's Game in historical fiction."

"No," Dick put his mug down in shock.

"I know! Like honey, it's set in a dystopian future. Where's the historic aspect?!"

"Oh Margaret."

Dick laughed just as she expected. Sure, life as a librarian wasn't as exciting to most folk. But Dick loved that Barbara loved it. And that was all that mattered. He was invested in her library shenanigans just as she'd be invested in the ridiculous bureaucracy at the police station. This was nice. Comfortable for the both of them.

"Feeling better?" she asked sweetly.

"A little bit, yea."

"Good. Now, tell me why you're really here."

"Heh. You always knew how to ease the tension."

"I know you too well, Dick Grayson. We're currently not 'on' right now so you're here either on business or you need something."

"I mean it's not entirely like that," he sheepishly shrugged.

"I didn't mean it in a bad way. Just that we're busy people now."

"Yea…"

"So, what's going on?"

"Sigh," he fidgeted still very nervous about his favor, "I need you to find someone."

"Ahh an Oracle request. Who's the perp this time? Drug dealer on the run? Key witness kidnapped before the trial?"

"I uhh…"

"C'mon Dick. Don't leave a girl in suspense."

"….I need you to find Zatanna."

"….Oh."

The warm cozy apartment suddenly felt slightly cold. Dick couldn't really make eye contact with Barbara despite such an ask. Babs bit her cheek a little unable to push down how she really felt. She looked away too. The two friends for a moment felt like distant acquaintances. So shy and ashamed to meet in the middle. But this could not go on forever. They were both adults after all…mostly anyway.

"What happened?" she asked.

"I don't know. I thought we were ok. It was nice."

"Did she take anything from you?"

"What? No! Of course not. She just got up and left. No trace. Her apartment's cleaned out. Her contract's terminated. Every bit of her is gone."

"Maybe, she doesn't want to be found, Dick. Maybe she just wants to be left alone."

"But why? Why leave without saying goodbye? We were connecting. And we were so good together. I was helping her with her shows, and she was just being her. I felt…I felt….." Dick stopped realizing his little faux pas.

When talking about Zatanna, Dick could get a little carried away in describing how his world revolved around the raven-haired magician. As such, he felt awful and wanted to curl up into a ball when he looked back at Barbara. She wasn't mad. But clearly, his words stung her a bit.

"Are you really going to question her privacy, though?" Babs asked, doing her very best to keep her composure.

"No. I don't want to. But she never would have just left like she never existed. She's kind. And loyal. She came to Artemis's wedding as a sub bridesmaid after all. That's not someone who'd just heartlessly leave you behind."

"Hmm."

"I just. At the very least I want closure from this. If she doesn't love me then I'll take it on the chin. But I refuse to believe that what Zatanna and I have isn't worth fighting for."

"Interesting," she tapped her chin.

"What?"

"Y'know, I wasn't sure what to make of her when you brought her to Wally's wedding."

"Oh?

"Yea. To be honest, she was kinda flighty."

"Babs, she was in an environment where she didn't know anybody."

"But still. She had that air of thinking she shouldn't belong there. She felt uneasy for a while. In fact, my first thought was that you brought a hooker to piss me off."

"Babs!"

"Let me finish, doofus. All that nervousness and fidgeting went away the moment she stood next to you. Just being with you calmed her down. Her smile beamed light like the heavens. She relaxed, so much so that it looked like she was melting in your arms. As much as I hate to admit it, there was something there between you two."

"That obvious, huh?"

"Well, I've got a keen eye. Anyway, I'll help you."

"….Really?" he looked back at her with ears perked up.

"Yes. Admittedly the logical part of my brain thinks you've got some abandonment issues you need to work out."

"….ouch."

"But….my heart also wants you to be happy. And….you never looked at me the way you look at her."

"Oh. I-I'm sorry, Babs."

Worriedly, Dick crawled over to her side of the couch and held her hands in his. Some tears started falling down her cheek, and Dick pulled her in for a hug.

"It's ok," she sniffled, "Sometimes that's just how life goes."

"You're still one of my favorite people on this Earth. I swear by it."

"I know. Thank you."

He kissed the top of her head as an apology, and she smiled. She wiped her tears with her sleeve and looked back at Dick with newfound determination.

"You really wanna do this?" she asked.

"….Yes."

"Ok. But promise me something."

"Anything."

"Don't you dare break her heart."

"Heh. I would never."

"Good," she got up kissing his cheek.

Walking over to the shelf, Babs fiddled around with some books before pulling just the right one, Pride and Prejudice. With a click, the whole room started to shift. Shelves were pushed into the walls. The clock windows dimmed and closed. A projector came down from the ceiling as a chair and holographic keyboard emerged from the floor.

"I'll never get tired of that," Dick smiled.

"Pretty nifty, huh," Babs winked back.

She sat down in the chair and began typing away. Multiple screens appeared before her as she quickly and almost robotically started skimming through data. Bank accounts. Travel logs. Public security camera footage. (Some) private security camera footage. All from a clock tower in Gotham, the Oracle was effortlessly combing the globe looking for one magician girl.

"Hmm," she knotted her brow in concentration.

"Well?"

"This is tricky. Like I was telling you before, Zatanna does not want to be found."

"How so?"

"Well. Her bank accounts have been stagnant for months. No withdrawals and no deposits. Gotham travel logs don't have her purchasing any tickets be it airline, bus, or ferry. However, that stuff is easily faked with made-up names or opening other accounts and whatnot. Can you think of an alias she'd like to use?"

"None really come to mind. She's always loved the stage."

"Hmm. Then this is really tricky. But also weird."

"What do you mean?"

"Like I said you can cover your paper trail, but you can't completely cover your face. Even with my facial recognition software, Zatanna literally isn't found on any camera in Gotham. In fact, the last known image of Zatanna in Gotham was when she was going up to your apartment with you."

"That's the night she left. When we did the Rupert Thorn sting."

"Hmm. But even then, my software should have picked her up on a camera. Sounds like she'd be out in public a lot. From leaving your place, going back to hers, I guess moving or dumping all her stuff somewhere, and of course skipping town. A lot of events happened in very little time. This is almost impossible to explain..."

"Hmm," Dick pondered.

"Any ideas?"

"I have a hunch."

"Ok spill."

"Well moreso a hunch about how she left in the dead of night and no one can find her."

"Oh…" Babs rubbed her forehead in annoyance.

"Maybe she's using magic to-"

"Imma just stop you right there," she cut him off.

"C'mon Babs. It's not the weirdest explanation. We've seen things that are not normal. Like Wally-"

"Yes yes I know," she cut him off again, "It's just. You do realize that means she really doesn't want you to find her, right?"

"I guess."

"Sigh. Look, because I love you, I'm going to expand my search to cameras outside of Gotham. Maybe the country. International? Well, I'm gonna need some favors."

"Done. Easy."

"Alright. This well take some time….a lot of time. Until then, go. Get some rest. Do some police work. Or do some night work. Try and keep your mind off things for a while, ok?"

"Ok."

He turned towards the elevator grabbing his coat along the way. As he pressed the button waiting for his ride, Dick turned back to Babs who was busy clicking away at the computer.

"Babs?"

"Hmm?"

"I really do appreciate what you're doing. And I do mean it. You're one of my most favorite persons in the world."

"I cherish you too, Dick. Don't worry, I'll do my best."

"Thank you."

He returned to his apartment discouraged. Not entirely since if anyone could find one person amongst seven billion on the globe, it was Barbara. But the waiting game sucked. As Dick walked through his building, he stopped by his mailbox. A whole stack of letters was stuffed into his slot. Most were immediate recycle materials as they were just ads for things Dick had no use for. Buncha gym memberships, invitations to various churches, private practice lawyers trying to find clients. Dick did keep a few supermarket coupons here and there. A detective's salary could only take him so far. There was a colorful envelope amongst the stack though. The addresses were hand-written and put a smile on Dick's worn and tired face. He raced up the steps and quickly opened his door, eager to read the latest correspondence from his good friend, C.C. Haly.

Hiya Dick,

I hope you're doing well! Thank you again for your kind donation last summer. You and Bruce Wayne are such generous folk.

Anywho, I'm glad we could keep this tradition of letting ya know when our new tour is starting! Oh it'll be great! We've got a fantastic lineup.

Harry says he's got a whole new fresh clown act to debut. No more pies to the face! Ha can you believe it?

Samson recently got married and she's joined the act too. Now it's Samson and Berta as Mr. and Mrs. Strong!

Raya still leads the way with our trapeze act. She's really been improving thanks to your tutelage last year. Still not a Flying Grayson but getting there.

Sadly Gunther, our beloved lion, passed away. Wilhelm was a wreck. We are were, but as his trainer, Wilhelm took it the hardest. Gurbel, our lioness, is still around, but she misses her lovely Gunther.

Wilhelm had to reduce his act a little, so we invited some new blood into the troop.

Oh boy, Dick, when you see this gal, ugh you'd probably fall in love. Our first ever MAGICIAN! Hah! Dick, the tricks this girl can do will make your jaw drop. I've never been more amazed in my entire life! And I saw Copperfield in his prime! You've got to come see her! You just have to!

Just give me a heads up on which city you wanna meet us at. As always, a front row seat right by the ring will be reserved for you.

Hope to see ya soon, Dick! Stay safe and healthy.

Love.

C.C. Haly

Warmth and nostalgia filled Dick's heart upon reading the letter. He always loved keeping in touch with his old circus crew. Even when he "made it big" with Bruce Wayne, Dick never ever forgot about his first family. Every year, Dick made it a point to visit at least one show while Haly's was on tour. This year however, it seemed like Dick need to make the first show as soon as possible.

"Leave to Haly to come through when you need him…"

*APPLAUSE APPLAUSE APPLAUSE*

The crowd was wild and on their feet. Raya had just pulled off a triple somersault in the air and majestically landed on the far platform with ease. A standing ovation was a must. Dick smirked a little, happy that his pupil was pulling off high level stunts. As the lights dimmed, the audience quieted down and settled into their seats. A single spotlight pulled everyone's focus towards the center of the ring. A portly man in a regal red tailcoat and a top hat stepped forward. His mustache hid his smile slightly, but one could easily see such pride he had in his crew.

"Give it up one more time for Ms. Raya Vestri and the Thunderbirds!"

*WOOOOOOO*

"Now, London, I must admit I am extra excited tonight. Not just because we're kicking off our annual tour, but because we are debuting a brand-new act. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, for the first time in Haly's Circus's 50 years, we are featuring…"

*DRUMROLL DRUMROLL DRUMROLL*

"A magician!" he brought his arms up in the air taking in all the gasps and eagerness of the crowd, "Ladies and gentlemen, newcomers and faithful followers, please give a warm welcome to our Mistress of Magic, our Princess of Prestige, Mary Minerva!"

*POOF*

A puff of smoke appeared in the center of the spotlight. Old man Haly was suddenly replaced with a new figure. She was taller and covered by a blue regal cloak. A top hat still adorned her head and covered her face. With the pizzazz and grace of an experienced performer, Ms. Mary opened her arms and flicked the wand in her hand. Immediately, a breeze of fresh air that smelt of lavender permeated throughout the circus tent. At the same time, the lights came on so everyone could get a good look at the newest addition to the circus troupe. She stood tall and proud, basking in both the lights and adoration of the crowd. Her blonde hair shimmered as her blue eyes sparkled. Blue seemed to be the theme of her outfit as she shook off her cloak and revealed a blue tailcoat and a blue vest.

Being right in the first row right on the edge of the ring, Dick had a clear direct view at this new performer. Despite the knee-high leather boots and stockings, he'd recognize those legs anywhere.

"GOOOOOD EVENING LONDON!" she cheerfully greeted, "I'm so excited to be making my debut with Haly's Circus here with you all! Are we ready to have some fun?"

*WOOOOOO*

"Perfect!" she smiled.

With a flick of her wand, the sand in the ring began to rise and twirl. Soon, they started coming together forming big clumps. Right before the eyes of Londoners, these sand clumps were molded into little woodland creatures. A deer, a bunny, and a bear appeared. Like real restless animals, the creatures started running around the ring in excitement.

"Who says sand is only fun at the beach?" she winked before twirling her wand again.

This time, sparks flew out the tip of her wand. Eight of these sparks formed into a flock of birds that soared all around the tent. They shined and shimmered making kids stand up to try and touch the beautiful birds.

"Magic is such a beautiful and joyous skill to have folks. And quite frankly, it's easy. Each and every one of you has the power to do magic. Because each and every one of you has the power of imagination. If you can think it, you can do it! For example, all this sand blowing around has made me thirsty. Why don't I take a seat and grab a drink?"

Another wand flick later, a chair and table poofed in out of nowhere. A tea kettle landed on the table along with a little cup. Daintily, Mary sat down and poured herself a cup.

"I know you British folk do love your tea. I wonder what's brewing in here?" she moved to touch the pot, but it was stone cold, "Huh? What the?"

Everyone was now entranced by the act given the amazing creatures she could conjure up. Meanwhile, center stage, Mary acted perplexed, wondering why her tea kettle wasn't boiling hot.

"That's strange? I specifically waved my hands for hot tea? What could possibly be in here?" Mary lifted up the lid and took a peek inside, "Gasp! How'd you get in here?!"

She stuck her hand into the pot and balled her hand into a fist before pulling it out. Clasping her hands tightly she now looked around the front row of the ring.

"I may need a little help here with this trick. Let's see, who'd like to help little ol' me?"

Mary's eyes scanned the row person-by-person. Ideally, she'd want a little kid to join in on the fun, but she also understood front row tickets were pricey. Lots of couples occupied the front, lots of rich couples. As she kept moving along trying to find her volunteer, her eyes stopped at one particular audience member. One look at him caused her to freeze. To her the bright lights of the tent were gone. There were no crowds surrounding her. There was no sound. It was just him and her. His blue eyes, still twinkling with wonder and kindness. She could never forget those eyes. He looked like he'd seen better days, but at the same time it was clear he made an effort to clean up. He smiled back, knowing that she recognized him. Blinking a few times, Mary got out of her trance and continued down the row, finally finding an eager kid.

"Hm how about you? What's your name little one?"

"Rachel," the girl answered shly.

"Well Rachel. I need your help with this trick. When I open my hands, all you need to do is close your eyes and blow. Easy, right?"

"Ok."

"Good! On the count of three. Ready? One, two, THREE!"

Rachel blew as hard as she could when Mary opened her palms. Right there, in front of everyone, as Rachel blew, real white doves jumped out of Mary's hands and flapped their wings. No sand or light tricks. A whole flock of real doves soared around the tent for everyone to see.

"Everyone, give it up for Rachel!" she grabbed the little girl's hand and raised it up triumphantly.

Mary smiled and waved at the cheering adoring crowd, but she made sure to turn her back to a particular part of the front row…

Moments later, Mary was in the corner backstage cleaning up her props. She had washed the makeup off her face and quite frankly was ready to turn in. Haly had set up a dinner for the crew to celebrate the first night of the tour, but that wouldn't be for a couple of hours anyway. Some footsteps disturbed the sand and gravel behind her. Normally, she'd be on high alert, but she knew these footsteps.

"I'm sorry, sir. Backstage is off-limits to normal folk. We may be in a tent, but the rules of showbiz still apply," she spoke without facing her visitor.

"I'm sorry, Miss. I don't mean to disturb you. But I can assure you, I'm allowed to be back here. I'm close friends with Mr. Haly."

"Oh?" she tilted her head pretending to fidget with a makeup brush.

"Yea. My family used to perform for him. We were the star act."

"I see."

"Mmm hmm. Perhaps you heard of us. We were a trapeze act."

"Every circus has a trapeze act."

"True. But only Haly's Circus had a trapeze act that performed without a safety net."

Mary tensed up squeezing the brush tightly. She didn't want to see him. She knew why he was here. But she couldn't bear to face this pain.

"That's quite….daring," she replied.

"I loved your act by the way. So creative and fun. You're a natural."

"Thank you. I appreciate it."

"Y'know I dated a magician for a while."

"Oh?"

"Yea. I was skeptical at first because she was so adamant that magic was real. In my mind, most things had logical scientific explanations."

"Hmm."

"But I also knew some things just couldn't be explained logically. Some things are much simpler than one realizes," slowly he approached her.

She could feel him coming closer, but there was no way out. She held her breath as she could feel him right behind her. Scrunching up and closing her eyes, Mary did her best not to turn around. She knew deep in her heart, turning around to face him would only bring pain.

"Sometimes," he whispered, "You just gotta roll with Occom's Razor."

And with that, he walked away. Mary let out a breath opening her eyes. Next to her hand was a small, wrinkled card. The ink had smudged a bit due to some possible water damage. But there was no mistaking what card it was: the eight of hearts. She couldn't help it anymore. She turned around.

"Dick wait!" she called out.

He hadn't made it far. Call it hubris or hope, but Dick walked slowly enough to just barely make it to the ring. He turned around to see Mary stumbling and chasing after him. Some tears were flowing down her cheeks. As the droplets fell, so did the color from her hair. Blonde strands slowly faded away. Streaks of raven became more and more prominent. She wiped her tears with her sleeve. When she opened her eyes, Dick made contact with those pools of blue he so longed to see again.

"Hi," Dick shyly greeted.

"H-how did you find me?" Zatanna stammered.

"Honestly, pure luck."

"How?"

"Haly sends me a letter every year marking the beginning of the annual tour. He's like a grandfather to me in a way. We try to keep in touch. I was surprised to see that he added a magician to the lineup."

"Ah…"

"So I took a chance. Fate was kind to me today."

"No, it wasn't. You shouldn't have come here."

"Why?" he asked firmly.

"I-I can't tell you."

"Why not?"

"I just…I just can't! Ok!"

"Zee…" he stepped towards her, "I've been scouring the globe for months. I missed you."

"I-…"

"Do you know why I approached you in Vegas so long ago?"

"N-no?"

"I saw the most beautiful girl on stage that night. Confident, charismatic, absolutely stunning. She made people laugh, smile, and enjoy themselves. She was witty, exciting, and so so fun. And then I saw her at the bar, so tired, so lonely. I thought to myself, there's no way someone as wonderful as this girl on stage could be so sad. And I don't know what compelled me to come over and cheer you up, but honestly, it was the best decision I ever made."

"I-But Dick…"

"Zee, I'm a detective. I know something has been bothering you for a very long time. Constantly roaming city to city. Never wanting to settle anywhere with anyone. But I never wanted to pressure you into telling me. Your secrets are your secrets to bear. I understand that. I just hoped that I could ease your pain. Shoulder your burdens. I really really love you, Zee. And I will understand if you don't want to be together, but can you at least tell me where I went wrong?"

"Oh, Dick. Dick, baby, there was nothing wrong with you. Nothing at all," Zee ran towards him to hug his torso, sobbing all over his chest, "That's what made leaving you so hard. Y-you are amazing. The best. B-but I couldn't hurt you, Dick. You deserve better than me."

"What are you talking about?" he hugged her back, "You're just what I need, Zee. I just want you."

"You shouldn't," she snapped back, pushing off him slightly, "I-if anything you should stay as far away from me as you can. I can't handle the pain."

"What pain? What are you talking about, Zee?"

She shimmied out of his arms and turned away for a moment. Tears were dripping down her face as her mind wondered how much was ok to reveal. She honestly wasn't even sure if she was trying to avoid hurting him…..or herself.

"Ok," he sighed.

"Huh?" she whipped her head around.

"I-I won't force anything. I-if you don't feel like what we have is worth fighting for, I won't try and change your mind. I'm sorry."

This time, Dick really did turn away and walked with intention to leave. It wasn't the closure he wanted, but it was the closure he was gonna get. However, once again, he didn't get very far.

"Dick, I'm not who you think I am!" she called out.

"Huh?"

"It's really complicated and you probably won't believe me anyway," she scurried over to catch up, "But….I lo-care about you enough to at least tell you the truth. You deserve it."

"O-Ok…"

"Dick. I-I'm a sorceress. A real sorceress. Magic is real and-"

"I know."

"And…wait what?!"

"Zee I told you. I've seen things that can't be explained by science. I've seen your shows. I've known you've had magic all this time."

"O-oh…"

"I do kinda wonder though how you cast spells. I thought it was the flick of the wrist or something, but then I see you tonight with a wand, so I'm just confused…slightly."

"I um. I say things backwards and that counts as a spell."

"Really?"

"Yes. Here," she raised her hand, "Emalf No!" (Flame on!)

With a snap of her fingers, a small fire ball appeared on her hand. While Dick wasn't surprised, he was intrigued. Zatanna tossed the fireball back and forth before throwing it up in the air and snapping her fingers again. The fireball exploded into little fireworks sending sparkles down between the two.

"Wow. That's amazing," Dick smiled, "But that isn't the reason you left, is it?"

"No," Zatanna sighed, "The truth, the real truth…"

She started to tremble and fiddle with her hands. Dick could hear her teeth gritting as she looked away, scared to make eye contact. Slowly, he walked over and embraced her. Immediately, as if by habit, she relaxed into his touch and nuzzled her face into his neck. Her arms hugged him back tightly as if she would fall without him.

"Take your time," he whispered.

"I'm cursed, Dick," she whimpered with tears coming out again, "More specifically, I'm cursed to live forever."

"Huh? Wait, really?"

"Y-yes…"

"How? What?"

"It's true," she pulled away, "I-I was born in 1866. When I was 24, m-my father became ill. I-I tampered with dark magic, and not in a good way. Things went sideways and my father died anyway."

"I-I'm so sorry."

"A-and now," Zatanna stepped back but started sobbing, "And now I'm stuck like this. I haven't aged in over a hundred years."

"T-there's no way. You look….I mean…"

"I'll prove it to you. Efink! (knife)"

A knife appeared in her hand. Removing a glove, Zatanna took a deep breath before sticking the blade into her palm and swiping downwards.

"Zee!" Dick gasped.

But there was no blood. There was barely a cut. To further prove her point, Zatanna threw her knife towards the wooden column, and the blade stuck into the wood.

"See. I can't die," Zatanna continued, "My curse is to watch everyone around me die. Friends, family, people I care about, they all die. I-I just couldn't do it anymore, Dick. I'm so tired of watching people I love grow old and weary and die while I'm perpetually 24! It's a pain I can't stand anymore!"

"Zee…"

"That's why I wanted to keep my distance from you! That's why I didn't want to fall in love with you!"

"But…"

"Can't you see?! We can't be together, Dick. Fate has made me damaged goods. All I do is give beautiful people like you false hope. And then fifty years or so from now you die, and I'm left all alone in this world. I CAN'T TAKE IT ANYMORE!" she fell to her knees weeping into her hands.

Stunned, Dick stood by for a few moments, simply watching Zatanna bawl her eyes out. Some things were just too wild to even believe. But then again, his best friend is the fastest man in the world, he was on a first name basis with multiple aliens, and he's in love with an immortal magician.

"Hey, hey," he whispered as he knelt down and embraced her, "Zee, please it's ok."

"It's not ok! I want to love you! I so so want to be with you. All I want is to wake up every day in your arms and have breakfast together and come home to you and just sit and watch tv or listen to music or whatever! But I can't have that. Fate and the fucking stars won't let me have my happiness," she wailed into his shoulder.

"Shhh," he patted her back, "Zee, you know I want you. I want you so badly. And you know you want me. I can feel it."

"Dick, i-it's not in the cards. I can't have you."

"Yes, yes you can."

"They won't let us. I can't bear this pain anymore."

"Then don't see it as pain. You say fate is pulling you miles away. Then forget about fate."

"But, Dick. You will die before me…"

"I don't care. We will still live a full life together. You and me. We can still wake up in bed together. I'll make you breakfast every day and dinner every night. I'll worship you like the goddess you are. I'll kiss the ground where you stand. But I need you to work with me, Zee. Help me rewrite the stars."

"….Dick."

"Just say you'll be mine. Please, Zee."

"It's not that easy, Dick. You don't think I want to run to you? You don't think I just want you to hold me every day and every night? This curse? This curse is like a mountain. It's keeping us apart."

"You've got to stop, Zee," he said firmly holding her shoulders, "Zee, we make our own destiny. Nobody's keeping us apart. It's just you and me."

"You don't think I've tried?! I've wanted to fall in love for so long. But then they die and I can't save them," she pushed him off sobbing.

"Zee!" he grabbed her and hugged her tightly.

"No one can save me, Dick. No one can rewrite our stars," she stammered through tears.

As she continued to cry in his arms, Dick held her tightly never wanting to let go. He stroked her hair and swayed back and forth trying his best to soothe her.

"It's not up to you or me, Dick. It's just not!"

"Yes it is. It's always been our choice, Zee. I get it. You don't want to lose anyone anymore. But that's just life, Zee. We lose people all the time. We can't be afraid of death every waking moment. That's not living."

"Oh Dick…"

"We can't live without loving, either. Zee. Zatanna Zatara, all I want is to fly with you. All I want is to fall with you. Please, I beg you, just give me all of you."

"That feels impossible."

"It's not impossible."

"It's impossible."

"Say that it's possible."

"Dick…"

"Zee," he tilted her chin up to face him, "Rewrite the stars, Zee. Trust in yourself. We can't beat fate if we don't try…"

Her teary blue eyes locked with his strong determined ones. Like always, she melted just by looking at him. Her tense shaking body began to relax. Slowly she eased into his touch. Their lips drew closer and closer together. She could feel the mint in his breath.

"I'm stronger than you think, Zee," he whispered, "I'll help you break this curse. And even if we can't, I will love you every step of the way."

Suddenly feeling assured, Zatanna closed her eyes and leaned in. Dick leaned forward as well. Both were so so ready for their first kiss in ages. Just inches apart…but sadly it was about to feel like miles.

"So this is the boy you choose?" an ominous voice appeared out of nowhere.

"What? NO!" Zatanna shrieked in terror.

Dark clouds swirled around the two. Dick held Zatanna tightly confused at what was going on. Zee hid in his arms not wanting to see anything.

"All this talk about defying fate. You forget your place, Zatanna Zatara," the voice continued.

"No please! Leave me alone!"

"You are already cursed, girl. But clearly you have yet to learn your lesson. It seems a…demonstration is required."

The dark clouds homed in on Dick and grabbed him by the arms. They picked him up high in the air spinning him round and round. The poor guy immediately felt dizzy and passed out. The wind continued to swirl around the ring, and in a flash of yellow, he was gone. Grains of sand and gravel fell all around Zatanna. She was stunned. Though she strained, no sound came from her throat. She fell to her knees clutching her heart. She had no more tears left to give.

"You will soon learn, girl, the cost of tempting fate. Your hands are tied."

*THUMP*

Angered, Zatanna pounded the sand beneath her as hard as she could. She gritted her teeth and looked up into the air with her tear-stricken eyes.

"No. You will not take anyone else from me again. Not now. Not ever…"

AN: Rewrite the Stars - Zac Efron and ZendayaHello hello! Welcome to part 2 of this sage! Muahahaha what a cliffhanger, huh? I hope I didn't keep yall waiting too long. And hopefully I won't keep you waiting too long for chapter 3!

I wanna thank Lover of romance246 for the inspiration. A while back, we had talked about doing an immortal AU and the logistics about how to craft the angst between someone immortal falling in love with someone who would die. So this is kinda born from all those discussions.

She's also got so many amazing Chalant fics such as Chalant Kisses , Chalant Floriography , Living Through Music with You , and Masks as well! Go check them out!

Thank you again for the support and I hope you enjoyed the read!