A/N:

reydelnorte685-guau is interesenting chapter, good job more the next

And more is here.

Gotham during the day was always a strange sight. Even stranger in recent days. Homelessness plummeted for a tragic reason since most of them took to dark and secluded areas, perfect nesting grounds for monsters. Low lives and criminals frequented those areas too, so the monsters slaughtered them.

Yet, because of this, littering was at an all-time low, and the streets of Gotham were significantly cleaner than before. People were walking the streets without a care, but avoiding the alleyways since monsters would attack them if they got too close. No one was brave enough to go down those streets, especially when the internet became flooded with videos of thrill seekers walking down the alleys to find monsters, only for the cameras to fall, screams being heard, then followed by crunching sounds with tearing meat and spilling liquid. No good parent ever let their child leave their side if they were close to those alleys.

Condemned buildings were given extra protection, especially after one building was destroyed and a flock of harpies flew out screeching. Many people were injured or killed that day, and the casualties would have been worse had Batman and Wonder Woman not been around to help the GCPD.

Yes, life was thoroughly different in Gotham since the monsters made it their home.

As Alfred was driving the limo, Bruce was staring out at his city, an unreadable expression on his face. "It's ironic. I've dreamed of making Gotham even remotely resemble this, but not through such a horrible method. No one needed to die for this, not even the criminals. Especially not eaten or torn apart."

Bruce looked down when a hand touched his before looking up to see Diana.

She was even more gorgeous than usual, wearing a professional suit, her glasses making her seem even more dignified than usual, and her hair tied up in a professional bun.

"I understand, Bruce. We all wish for peace, but never at the cost of another's life. True, there are times when a soldier is forced to take a life, but this isn't one of those times. These monsters forced their way into your home, and Nyx made sure they would stay to get to you. She played her hand, but we still have moves of our own. We can convince them, Bruce. And we can make sure no more innocent blood needs to be spilled."

Bruce smiled. "Thank you, Diana." He looked up through the sunroof. "A beautiful day, isn't it? Not even so much as a cloud in that blue sky."

Diana looked up. "It's as if Aeolus himself wished to give us aid, taking away his storm clouds to keep the monsters at bay."

"It's nice to know we have SOME gods on our side."

Diana giggled.

Later, in the Board Room, the directors were seated, all anticipating the meeting.

When Bruce cleared his throat, all eyes were on him as he stood up. "I'd like to thank all of you for attending the meeting. I know for a fact that all of you are busy with your assigned divisions, but this is an urgent matter. As you're all aware, Gotham has been the victim of many terrible actions: organized crime, gang wars, corruption, chemical warfare, terrorist activity, and even something as fantastical as an actual alien invasion."

The board began to murmur among themselves about the crazy events Gotham has dealt with.

"And yet, none of that compares to the trials we are facing now. Monsters straight out of mythology have infested our city. In the day, we are safe due to their aversion to sunlight, but at night they virtually claim Gotham's streets as their own. They prowl the roads, hunt criminals and civilians alike, and cause tremendous amounts of damage. They're a force unlike any one city has ever had to suffer through."

"But we have heroes, don't we, Bruce," an Asian director asked.

"I was there when Batman took out a lion the size of a bus by himself," a black director said.

"There's also Red Hood, who took out a flock of those flying women on his own," a white director said.

"Haven't some of Gotham's criminals been fighting the monsters, too," a Hispanic director asked.

"Are you referring to when Killer Croc fought those bull monsters," another black director asked.

"And nearly died to them," another Asian directed pointed out.

"But wait, aren't there rumors that Wonder Woman is in Gotham," another white director asked.

"They're not rumors," the same Hispanic director said. "I saw her fight this multi-headed snake monster on her own in Gotham Park. She made beating that thing look easy."

"As you've all stated, Gotham has a myriad of heroes. Brave souls who are willing to fight against these nightmarish forces. There's only one problem: not even they can be everywhere in Gotham at once. If they could, the front page's fatality column wouldn't exist."

The room became sullen at that fact.

"What do you suggest we do, Bruce," Lucius asked.

"Pardon me, Mr. Fox," asked Ms. Bannister. "You make it seem as if Wayne Enterprise will somehow deal with this monster situation."

"You sound like this doesn't interest you, Ms. Bannister," Bruce said.

"With all due respect, Mr. Wayne, Wayne Enterprise is a technological and pharmaceutical company. We have no means of assisting in matters of defense."

"That might not be completely true," Bruce began. "After all, our satellites are used in FBI and military operations. What's more, a Defense Wing can be easily and quickly approved, especially in this current state of Gotham."

"Sir, you're not promoting privatized policing, are you," a Hispanic director asked.

"Wayne Securities, maybe," a white director asked. "Doesn't sound like that horrible of an idea."

"That's not what I'm suggesting." Everyone looked at Bruce. "What I'm suggesting is for Wayne Enterprise to collaborate with the Gotham City Police Department."

The directors looked at each other.

"With all due respect, Mr. Wayne," the black director began. "But given the GCPD's history, is it really a good idea to give them power like that?"

Bruce was silent for a moment. "A show of hands: who here has absolutely NO faith in Commissioner James Gordon?"

The directors silently looked among themselves, some murmuring to each other. Yet more than enough time passed for at least one of them to raise their hands, but none did.

"I'll be the first one to say it: Gotham's police history is shameful. Commissioner Loeb will go down in history as one of the most corrupt and vile men to have ever put on a badge, let alone be the leader of a police force. Men like Flass will always try to worm their way into law enforcement for their own selfish desires. But I want to believe that for every Flass, there are at least ten Gordons. He's not the only good officer I can name off the top of my head, either. Officer Aaron Cash, Detective Renee Montoya, Detective Ethen Bennett, Detective Ellen Yin, and Detective Harvey Bullock. All of these brave men and women have proven to be heroes who uphold the law. I myself have been rescued by them a time or two and would trust them with my life. Can any of you say you don't trust any of these officers?"

"I feel like they're the exception that proves the rule," a black director said.

"Yeah. Six good officers to name is fine and all, but are we really going to trust the rest of them? How do we know none of them are working for Black Mask or Penguin or ANY of Gotham's crime lords," a Hispanic director asked.

"That's a good question, which is why I want Jim Gordon himself to handpick the officers that will be part of the special unit. After all, not even we can afford to fully equip the GCPD with the needed equipment to combat these monsters."

"I agree with that statement," a white director said as he raised his hand. "This equipment we might develop is bound to not only be expensive, but experimental. It'd be too dangerous to arm every officer with what might be science experiments."

"And there's another flaw, Mr. Wayne," Ms. Bannister began. "How are we to combat these creatures? News reports have shown that many of these beasts are virtually bullet-proof, if merely bullet resistant."

"I'm pleased you brought that up, Ms. Bannister. As I'm sure many of you noticed, these monsters bear a striking resemblance to the stories of Greek Mythology itself."

"Are you suggesting we are overrun by monsters out of fairytales?"

"Uh, with all due respect, Ms. Bannister, we live in Gotham City," a Hispanic director began.

"Your point?"

"We have a lady who can literally control plants, man-sized bats, Killer freakin' Croc, and Solomon Grundy!"

"Urgh."

"FOR THE LOVE OF GOD, WE SURVIVED A DAMNED ALIEN INVASION! ARE MONSTERS STRAIGHT OUT OF MYTHOLOGY REALLY THAT WEIRD ANYMORE?!"

". . . Point made," Ms. Bannister said with her head hung low out of shame and embarrassment.

"But back on the subject," a red-haired director began. "We have no idea what can hurt these things, do we?"

"Actually, we just might," Bruce began. "I thought that since these monsters came from Greek Mythology, we would use Greek Mythology to develop tools to fight them. Which is why I went to the liberty of hiring an expert in the field. Ladies and gentlemen, I'm sure you've all noticed her standing in the corner. I'd like to give the floor to Diana Prince," he said as he stepped away, as Diana walked forward, pushing up her glasses.

"First, allow me to introduce her," Bruce began. "Diana Prince is one of the world's foremost Mythologists and Archaeologists, who specializes in monsters. Her fascinating theories claim that many Greek Monsters were inspired by real-life animals that are long extinct. She was actually at an excavation site searching for fossils when this nightmare began. It's honestly a miracle she was able to reach Gotham through all this."

"Thank you for that kind introduction, Mr. Wayne," Diana said with a small bow. She then looked back at the Board. "As stated by Mr. Wayne, I am Diana Prince. I'm thankful to all of you for allowing me to speak. I'm hoping you all have at least a basic understanding of Greek Mythology. Knowledge from movies is no exception."

The Board murmured among themselves for a bit.

"The tragic truth about most Greek Monsters is that nearly all of them were slain by heroes. Warriors who many believed were blessed by the gods themselves. No army had ever defeated a monster. It was always either a god, a demigod, or an exceptionally brave soul."

"So, what, normal people can't beat these things? Only Batman and Wonder Woman can take these creatures out," an Asian director asked.

"That isn't what I'm saying. In fact, modern weaponry might have a better chance at defeating some of these beasts than any demigod could," Diana began. "Guns are quite useful against creatures like Harpies, Empusas, or Arions. Their hides aren't known to be particularly strong. However, the same can't be said of powerful monsters like Minotaurs or the Nemean Lion. Pure brute strength is sometimes necessary against monsters such as these."

"I don't think ANY human outside of metahumans straight out of Dakota or heroes in the Justice League are that strong."

"True, but what do some of the heroes in the Justice League WEAR?"

The directors looked confused until one of the black one's eyes widened. "Power suits."

The directors began to murmur.

"With Wayne tech, developing one of those would be a cakewalk."

"It shouldn't be too damaging to the budget."

"But we can't just rely on suits, can we?"

"No, we cannot," Diana said, getting everyone's attention. "So, let's continue with this meeting, shall we," she asked with a smile.

Bruce and Diana were in Lucius's private lab in Wayne Tower, all of them diligently working on potential equipment for the now-approved Anti-Mythical Beast Unit or AMBU Squad.

"I must say, Ms. Prince, this information is incredible. Research on mythical creatures from books and tapestry or vases is one thing, but to learn of their weaknesses from one who actually fought these beasts is something else entirely," Lucius said.

"I'm glad you approve, Mr. Fox. Oh, and you may call me Diana if you wish."

"Then please, call me Lucius. How are things on your end, Bruce," Lucius asked as he looked toward his friend.

Bruce was typing away at a computer, blueprints to what looked like a custom baton appearing on the screen.

"I think officers will use firearms more than melee weapons, Bruce."

"I don't care," Bruce said. "I won't develop guns, Lucius. I'll leave that to you if you think it's so important."

"Bruce, I understand your aversion," Diana began. "But these officers won't be nearly as skilled as you. They're not even as skilled as Oracle."

"Be that as it may, some monsters will run up to them, making those guns useless more often than not. At least they'll be able to defend themselves with these batons. Besides, this isn't my only project." Batman closed the baton blueprints and pulled up another tab.

"Oh, my," Lucius went.

"Bruce, this armor, it resembled-"

"Hephaestus's Annihilator. Obviously, it won't be anywhere near as powerful as his, but it will keep the wearer safe against the more powerful monsters."

"Impressive work, son."

Everyone looked behind them toward the voice, Bruce and Diana already in fighting stances.

"Though it could use a few more touches, but very impressive for a mortal."

"Hephaestus? What are you doing here," Diana asked as the stubby, thick man lumbered toward the computer, typing away.

"Zeus sent me. He's getting impatient. He doesn't like what Nyx is doing on Gaia, and is wondering why it's taking you so long to deal with Echidna and her children."

"Echidna?!"

"Where else do you think all these creatures are coming from?"

"Is the Mother of Monsters really in Gotham," Bruce asked.

"Indeed. Though, obviously, she's hidden. Nyx can't exactly let her best soldier maker be taken out so early in the war, now can she?"

"So not even the gods know where she's hidden," Lucius asked.

"I'm afraid not. Hermes has been looking, but he's been unsuccessful so far. There you go, son. Good luck," Hephaestus said as he walked away.

Bruce looked at the screen, reading what Hephaestus added to the blueprints. "Incredible. Hm?" Bruce sighed. "Of course, he'd add his symbol."

"Diana," Hephaestus whispered, getting the beauty's attention. "Aphrodite has informed all of Olympus. Zeus has all but forbidden you from partaking in combat."

"What? I can't follow such orders. The World of Man needs a protector, now more than ever."

"There are plenty of guardians on Gaia, my dear sister. The father is one of them, isn't he?"

"But Bruce is just a mortal."

"With that armor, he'll be so much more."

"He won't rely on it. That armor is for mortal peacekeepers."

"And in their hands, the armor will be adequate, but in his, he will be the stuff of legend. Make him use the armor. If he uses it, you won't put the child in danger."

Diana glared at her brother. "You underestimate me, brother. I am an Amazon. I would never allow anything to happen to my child."

Hephaestus looked up at Diana before he sighed. "You're as proud as our father. That pride will be your downfall, Diana. Do not forget the great importance of that child growing within you." Hephaestus then vanished in a puff of forge smoke.

Diana stared at where her brother was standing before looking down and rubbing her stomach. 'I won't let anything happen to you, my child. I promise,' she thought.

Meanwhile, atop one of Gotham's tallest skyscrapers, Prometheus looked down at the city before looking forward at the slightly taller Wayne Tower, his cape flowing with the wind.

"Are you ready," Nemesis asked as she walked up, standing next to her Champion.

"Of course, I am." he then looked up toward the sunny sky and lifted his hand. "Let the games begin."

In a split second, black storm clouds covered the sun. In mere moments, it was as dark as night, thunder crashing.

When this happened, the citizens looked terrified.

One man was walking backward in fear of the dark, until he stopped when he heard a growling. He slowly and rigidly turned behind him to look at a black alleyway.
Then, glowing red eyes shone in the darkness. Then...

A Nemean Lion pounced out with a roar.

As the three were working in Lucius's lab, an alarm went off.

"What's happening," Diana asked.

Lucius typed at a computer, bringing up a live feed, his eyes widening. "No!"

"It's only an hour past noon! What is the meaning of this," Bruce yelled as he saw how dark the live feed was.

"Bruce, look," Diana went on as she pointed. "Lucius, zoom in on that skyscraper!" Lucius did as he was asked.

"Prometheus," Bruce growled.

"He almost killed the entire League by himself. You've never even beaten him on your own. Since he's in Gotham, there's no doubt in my mind that he has a plan for you. Can we handle this, Bruce," Diana asked.

Bruce stared at the deadly foe. "We don't need to handle him, Diana. We just have to destroy THAT," he said as he pointed at the machine blasting behind Prometheus. "Gotham's citizens take priority. After we deal with that, then we can worry about Prometheus himself."

Diana threw off her suit, revealing that she had her uniform beneath it. Lucius opened up a nearby suitcase, the contents being Wonder Woman's tiara and lasso, which he tossed to her. She easily caught it, equipping them. "We don't have time for the jet. I think it will be easier and faster for me to fly us there."

"No arguments here," Batman said, already in his suit and ready to take on Prometheus.

"Batman." He looked toward Lucius and caught a gadget. He looked to see it was his Explosive Gel. "It's a stronger mix. It can blast through even steel now. I have a feeling you're going to need it for that oversized wind machine."

"Thank you, Lucius." Batman then grabbed Wonder Woman's arm just as Lucius opened up a hidden doorway that led straight outside. Wonder Woman flew out, holding onto Batman, and immediately punched a harpy out of her way before flying toward Prometheus and his machine.

"God's speed, both of you," Lucius said as he closed the door. As soon as he did, a harpy slammed into the wall, falling to the ground after that heavy crash.

Prometheus was typing away at his machine, making sure everything was running smoothly. He smirked when he saw that everything was going accordingly.

"Beautiful, isn't it," Prometheus said as he backed up and looked at his machine at work. "Weather Wizard tried to keep the secret all to himself, but nothing a bit of persuasion couldn't fix. I used some of your techniques, actually. So in a way, this is all thanks to you..." Prometheus turned his head to look behind him. "Batman."

Batman stood alone, glaring at Prometheus. "Shut. It. Down."

"Heh. Gladly," Prometheus said as he turned toward Batman. "Is that what you'd think I'd say? Listen, hero. The blasting of bullets, the wail of sirens snuffed out by crashes-" An explosion occurred, silencing a siren. "And those, of course. The scream of police officers as they're being torn apart by monsters."

"Innocent civilians are being killed, too, Prometheus."

"Collateral damage."

"What about criminals? They're being butchered by those monsters, too."

"Again, collateral damage. But if they're smart criminals, they'd run away and hide in the safest place they know and not fight those monsters like idiots. I've seen plenty of cops doing just that, after all."

"And on my way here, I've seen even more heroes risking their lives to protect the innocent. I won't let you kill any more actual police officers."

Prometheus chuckled. "And are you going to stop me? We've fought twice already, and I've beaten you both times. You needed help in order to stop me... Bruce."

Batman didn't react.

"Oh, yes. I know. I'll admit, I was told, but it should have been obvious. Your suit, your gadgets, your car, your skills; all would take years and a fortune to cultivate. Luckily, Bruce Wayne has both in spades."

"Am I supposed to be impressed, Curt? Or do you prefer Chad? Maybe Matt?"

"Oh, all three. Very good, Bruce," Prometheus said with a clap. He then chuckled. "But let's stick with the only name that EVER mattered. I am Prometheus, plain and simple."

"You know who I am, and yet you won't reveal it to the public?"

"Why would I? Let's be honest, Bruce, revealing to the world who you are wouldn't kill the Batman, now would it? Even if all of your funds were liquidated and you were thrown to the streets, you'd still fight. You'd still use the shadows as your weapon, turn the trash of Gotham into tools, and STILL be a force of Justice. Never forget, I'm doing this not to ruin heroes, I'm doing this to KILL Justice itself. And that is why I decided to join with Nyx."

Batman's glare intensified. "She promised you Themis."

Prometheus clapped again. "You truly are the World's Greatest Detective. That's exactly right, Bruce. I deliver you to her, she becomes the First Mother, you become her slave, and Themis dies. You might as well make things easy for everyone, hero."

"No."

Prometheus chuckled. "Look around you, Bruce! Gotham might as well be HELL! Monsters running rampant, cops being slaughtered, magic so powerful that not even the Justice League can break through, and even the gods can't help you. It's just you and your family, Bruce. You're alone. You can't even beat ME alone, and yet you want to challenge Nyx?! SHE'S UNBEATABLE!"

"I've taken on 'unbeatable' beings before."

"No one like her, Batman. No one like her. Now, shall we enjoy our third match," Prometheus asked as he grabbed his nightstick, activating it, then activating his helmet. "Oh, and before we start, I can't exactly ignore your girlfriend, now can I, Diana," Prometheus said as he looked to his left and snapped his fingers.

A roar was heard, followed by a crash and Wonder Woman's surprised yell. A massive Hydra's head shot up, Wonder Woman holding its mouth open, as more heads crashed out of the building with a roar.

"DIANA," Batman yelled as he looked ready to run to her aid, only to have to jump out of the way of a gunshot. He glared at Prometheus, his gauntlet smoking from the gunshot.

"Now, now, Bruce, you and I have a score to settle, and it would be rude of your beloved Amazon to get in the way of our little game."

Batman glared at Prometheus before he punched his fists together, showing that he was wearing his shock gauntlets.

"Oh. This will be fun," Prometheus said with a smirk.

Batman and Prometheus stood in place, glaring at one another before a lightning strike occurred. As soon as it thundered, the two counterparts charged at each other, Batman's fist clashing with Prometheus's nightstick with an energetic boom, beginning their fight.