Chapter Text
Wonder Woman slammed her fists onto the table.
“This is ridiculous!” She exclaimed, her anger dripping off her words as her heated gaze made Superman cower slightly.
“I’m sorry, Wonder Woman, it’s our only chance.” He calmly stated with his hands defensively up.
“I don’t understand why Diana and I have to be the ones to partake in this mission.” Batman rasped with his arms crossed against his chest.
They had received word that Lord Chronos, aka David Clinton, was released from prison and was up to no good using time travel again.
Diana huffed and crossed her arms over her chest.
This time they were more prepared, a select team was asked to design a similar device to Clinton’s, one that would also be able to alert them when and where its sister device was being used.
Currently, Chronos was in the late 18th, early 19th century and stirring trouble. But it was…more complicated than it looked.
“Clinton has gained significant power and status since his arrival, we have to come up with an articulate plan in order to win this fight.” Superman explained as he took his seat back.
Diana clenched her jaw as Superman spoke, unhappy with how things were turning out.
Things had been tense in the Watchtower for the past few months, specifically between Batman and Wonder Woman. Neither of them could pinpoint exactly when it happened, it kind of just came about.
Batman looked at Diana from the corner of his eyes, his mask concealing his actions.
He had grown frustrated with how things had transpired between them, he could still remember their nights on patrol together, idle chatter on rooftops and their daily lunches that they shared.
Now he ate alone in the corner. He spent his patrols alone and his nights were quiet.
He missed the sparkle in her eyes when she looked at him, he can’t even remember the last time they looked at each other.
“Okay,” Diana sighed and sat back in her seat. “Run it through me again.”
Superman relaxed as he explained their mission once more.
“We will send you and Bruce to the year he is in and in the same location.” He started, his eyes moving between Bruce and Diana. “Bruce will be a General returning from war, this will give him money and status and will be an easy way in to find Clinton.” His eyes settled on Diana, “Your part will be a bit more difficult, but necessary. Bruce will need back-up, and you guys will need information, that’s why-”
“That’s why you want a woman so she can mindlessly gossip with other women?” Diana replied, her annoyance building up again.
Clark tensed, “You’re going to be the eyes and ears of this whole operation, Diana. We need you there.” He calmly told her, she slightly shook her head once more at his words, feeling offended by her role in all of this.
Bruce’s knuckles were white from how hard he was clenching his fists. He understood Diana’s point of view, she deserves more than to be used as a gossip, but he also knew it was a smart move given the year they were forced to travel to.
“You guys won’t be able to be in the same house because only married couples could live in a house together, but we’re making arrangements so that you will be near each other.”
“How did you make these arrangements?” Diana asked,
“We had J’onn do a test run and do some research, that’s how we’re able to know Clinton’s status, whereabouts, and other information we’ll need. And thanks to his shapeshifting abilities, he was able to make sure that when you two head down you will be arriving in your homes, clothing and other necessities already laid out for you.”
“Don’t forget now, this is going to be very dangerous.” Clark warned, “We don’t know how Clinton has changed things, but he must be stopped. And you won’t be able to lean on your superpowers, Diana, we can’t risk it.” He told Wonder Woman who just frowned in response, but nodded in agreement. “Be prepared to fight, you two. This isn’t going to be easy.”
Diana and Bruce nodded firmly, both too stubborn to back down from such an important mission, no matter how close the two were going to have to get.
“Okay, it is getting late now.” J’onn stated, closing down the monitors. The clock stated it was close to 11PM, and Diana could feel her exhaustion nipping at her. “Let us all get some rest, we have a big day tomorrow.”
The Founders room slowly filtered out, leaving just Bruce and Diana.
Diana rose to her feet, Bruce continued to eye her from the corner of his mask.
She made her way to the coffee machine, pouring herself a large drink and taking a big sip. She stared out the window and into the galaxy before her.
“A little late for a pick-me-up, princess.” Bruce’s stated,
“I’ll be fine.” Diana answered flatly, her back still facing him. Bruce stood to his feet, his cape falling behind him. He felt his feet grow ten times heavier with each step he took towards her.
“Diana,” Bruce started, his voice firm even though his throat had gone dry.
“Yes?” She replied, turning her head to the side as she spoke.
Bruce wanted to reach out his hand and touch her arm, tell her that they’ll be okay and he’ll always be there for her. He wanted to ask her why she had been so cold to him, a behaviour that boiled his blood when he thought of it.
Above all else, he just wanted to tell her that he missed her.
But his hand dropped, and he averted his gaze from her, his eye slits narrowing as he did so.
“Try to get some sleep.” Was all he said as he turned on his heel and stalked out of the room. He heard a faint ‘thanks’ as the door swooshed open and he exited.
Bruce and Diana stood on two separate platforms, a translucent blue glow radiated from them. They were both dressed in their usual work clothes: her star-spangled one-piece and knee high bright red boots that Batman had fantasized about once or twice. Batman had his batsuit on as well, but their accessories weren’t on them; a tiara, rope, bracelets, and a bat-belt were all stored inside a titanium box that had a futuristic lock on it that could only be accessed by them two.
“So your names will stay the same: Bruce Wayne and Diana Prince. Do not forget your stories, do not forget where you are,” J’onn looked at Diana, “Do not use your powers. You two must keep a low-profile and not raise any suspicion.” Batman and Wonder Woman nodded their heads in agreement, J’onn handed Wonder Woman the titanium box. “Hide this well.”
“I will.” She stated confidently, something that made Batman’s lips twitch in an almost-smirk.
J’onn and Superman punched in their time and location on the monitors in front of their platforms, a nervous and shaky breath left Superman’s lips as he looked at them.
Diana smiled at him gently, “We’ll be fine, Kal.” A nickname that made Bruce tense at the sound.
Clark smiled back, “I know you guys will.”
“Let’s get this over with.” Bruce rasped as he grew more annoyed at the pair.
Clark and J’onn looked at each other and gave a slight nod to the other.
“We’re going to countdown,” Clark stated as he prepared the device. “In 3,” He pressed a button, “2,” A turn of a switch, “1.”
The glow from the beam grew more intense and nearly blinded the two, but they stood their ground. A flash of wind surrounded them, but in a blink of an eye the glowing and the wind stopped.
Bruce opened his eyes and found himself in a relatively nice home, one that many Generals of war had. It wasn’t as grandeur as the Wayne Manor, but he wasn’t picky - honestly, he didn’t care that much if at all.
Diana’s eyes flicked open, she was in a small but charming home. It had a nice garden in front and small rooms, fit for one person. She found herself in her bedroom, a bed with blue cotton covers and a firm mattress stood on a handmade wooden bed frame. There was a pitcher and a cloth on one of her nightstands, an oil lamp on the other one.
She moved towards the wardrobe, knowing she had to immediately get dressed first before doing absolutely anything.
Diana wore a simple gown of a faded blue colour, it was an empire cut and reached down just before her feet. She sat down in front of her old vanity and pinned her hair in an updo.
Bruce had done the same in his house, throwing on a nice suit that seemed appropriate for the day time. He examined himself in one of his mirrors, he combed his hair back, trying to remember how they style their hair based on that one period film he watched.
Diana left her home first and decided to head to the main square of the town, hoping to introduce herself to a few people and get some impressions. The walk there was quiet, a quiet peace she felt like she missed from her everyday life. She could hear the birds sing to each other, the whistle of the wind between the trees, and the crunch of leaves with every step she took.
The glow from the sun warmed her face as she tilted her head back, allowing her chest to feel the rays. She smiled to herself, saying that this is exactly what she needed.
The town square had plenty of people bustling about, and had a stone ground to differentiate it from its grassy surroundings. Diana examined the different shops, a few cafes and pastry shops, a fabrics store, a grocery store and other various buildings. She kept an eye out for Bruce,
She felt a pang in her heart as she thought of him.
For the past few months every time she looked at him or thought of him, every time his voice filled the Founders room her heart flipped. It aggravated her to no end. She couldn’t stand these feelings for him, it accumulated to the point where she became so angry with herself, she projected it onto him. An energy he had undoubtedly picked up on.
Diana rolled her eyes at the thought, irritated knowing that if he cared he would’ve asked her about it. He hadn’t said a word.
“Try to get some sleep.” Is all he could muster up the courage to say.
Had he truly not cared? Had he not noticed how tired she had become?
Diana shook her head and continued on walking, attracting the eyes of every man in the area as she walked through the square.
“Who’s that?” A young girl, no older than 17, asked her mother. The mother, who had aged poorly and had a husband who spent long nights at his work, eyed her with envy and distaste.
“Looks like no good if you ask me.” She decisively spat out with a quick pace to her handheld fan.
Diana was aware of her effect on the people, but decided to ignore it.
Just then, the main street parted as a series of horses and wagons traveled through it. Diana hurriedly made her way to the front in order to see who was traveling, hoping to find Clinton. The mother, whose eyes did not leave Diana as she struggled through the large group of people, sneakily stuck her foot out in front of Diana.
With a gasp, Diana embraced herself for a fall, but was caught at the last minute. She held her chest in an attempt to slow down the beating as her eyes trailed up the arms that held her.
She felt her eyes slightly widen at the sight of Bruce, who stood before her in a beautiful black and light grey suit. On the sleeve of his jacket she noticed the gold symbol that Generals would wear to mark their status. The entire town’s attention was now diverted to the pair, a few audible gasps could be heard. Bruce’s hands lingered a bit too long on Diana, which was frowned upon in this century. Modesty was their policy, and Bruce knew that he just…
“I’m so sorry.” Diana quickly said as she broke from his grasp and leaned forward in a curtsey towards Bruce. The hand that held Diana was closed in a tight fist, trying to recreate the warmth that Diana’s body gave him.
He cursed himself, he was starting to think maybe this mission was going to be a lot more difficult after all.
“Don’t mention it.” He rasped, a twinkle in his eye as he looked at Diana. Her intoxicating lightning blue eyes met his, a sight that made the tension in Bruce’s shoulders ease. He hadn’t known how long he held that tension.
The attention they were receiving grew to be uncomfortable, so Bruce tore his eyes away from her and continued walking.
“Oh my, an officer.” Diana would hear the excited whispers.
“Not just an officer dear, a general .”
Diana fixed her dress then carried on back to the sides of the road, she was going to make her way back home to regroup when a familiar voice startled her.
“Your dress has a tear in it.” Diana whipped her head to the source and found a girl by the well staring at her. She had piercing green eyes and ginger hair, she could’ve sworn it was Shayera. Diana stood and stared in shock,
They wouldn’t have sent her in, would they?
The girl’s eyebrows came together in confusion, “Hey, miss, you’ve got a tear in your dress.” She pointed down to the front hem of Diana’s dress that did indeed have a huge tear in it. “I could help you with that, I’ve got a shop just across the road.” She offered her,
Diana smiled, grateful to finally have some possible intel.
“That would be lovely, thank you.” The girl smiled and led her to her shop, which literally was just across the road.
“What’s your name?” The girl asked Diana as she went to fetch her sewing supplies.
“It’s Diana, Diana Prince.” She introduced herself, eyeing her surroundings for anything of use.
“Hm,” The girl hummed in thought as she returned with the sewing supplies in her hands. “I don’t think I’ve heard of you before. Did you just move here?” She asked, Diana nodded,
“Yes, I lived not too far away, small village. There was nothing for me there, so I thought a good scenery change would be in order.” She quickly explained in a rushed voice, scolding herself for not sounding more natural.
“Well, hopefully you’ll like it here. I noticed you already met some of our military.” She said with a teasing smirk and a wink.
“Oh who?” Diana attempted to play off. The girl sat down on the floor and grabbed the hem of Diana’s skirt, beginning to patch up the tear. “The general? Oh, he’s okay, seems like a nice man.” Diana excused, averting her gaze to the windows.
She heard the girl chuckle, “You certainly had the attention of every man, that’s for sure. I’m not surprised you gained the attention of the militia, let alone a general. And he’s quite handsome too.” The girl gushed
“I guess, if you’re attracted to that sort of man.” Diana muttered, thinking of ways to change the subject.
The girl raised her eyebrow at her, “You mean good looking, wealthy, well-established, respectable men? Yes, they tend to be on my list for attractive men.” She teased her as she finished up sewing.
Diana cleared her throat, “You never told me your name.” The girl stood up with a smile and stuck out her hand.
“My name’s Shirley, Shirley Holt.” Diana returned the smile and shook her hand.
“Nice to make your acquaintance.” Shirley set her supplies down on a nearby table. “So you run a fabric store?” Diana asked her as she examined her skirt, it was stitched so perfectly you could hardly tell it was torn to begin with.
“My husband and I do, you know the men buy and the women run.” She joked, but there was a hint of honesty in her voice. “How long have you been in town for?” Shirley asked as she leaned over the table and looked at her new-found friend.
“I just arrived, actually.” Diana said honestly, Shirley smiled.
“My, oh my, well you must be introduced to everyone.” She said excitedly. Diana raised an eyebrow,
“How so?” Shirley laced her fingers together before resting her head on top of them.
“Well, a ball of course.” Both of Diana’s eyebrows rose up,
“A ball?” Shirley nodded.
As Diana thought about it, she realised a ball would be perfect for intel.
Diana smiled and nodded, “A ball would be lovely. How do we throw one?” Shirley let out a laugh,
“ We don’t throw one, only the elite do.” She explained, “Luckily for us, there is a ball being thrown for the militia soon. Maybe you’ll be able to see your not-so-attractive attractive friend.” She teased with a wiggle of her eyebrows.
Diana let out a chuckle at the thought, but couldn’t help but feel intrigued, maybe even excited, for such an opportunity.
Shirley came around the desk and reached out her hands to meet Diana’s.
“We can get ready together, if you would like. You can meet my husband and my dear friend Katherine.” Shirley suggested sweetly, Diana was taken aback. Although this girl looked exactly like Shayera, there were moments where she acted so differently from her it was almost giving her whiplash.
Diana smiled at her offer, “That would be great, thank you.”
Bruce stood in the local pub with other officers and ranked militia. He received word that this was where they gathered on most nights. His eyes roamed his environment, taking note of every little thing he noticed. He made his way to a barstool, but was caught off by a drunken officer.
“Are you new here? I haven’t seen you around before.” He slurred at Bruce, who had to hold back from sneering at the dofus.
“I am. I’m the new General.” His deep baritone voice almost sobered the drunk man as his eyes widened at his response. Even when he didn’t mean to, Bruce came off as strongly intimidating.
“Apologies General.” The man bowed dramatically in front of Bruce, whose fists were clenched. Thankfully the officer stood away and allowed Bruce to take a seat.
“What’ll you have?” The bartender who had a long moustache and beard asked Bruce as he sat.
“Whiskey, neat.” Bruce rasped as he eyed the alcohol selection.
“Coming right up.”
Bruce looked over his shoulder and spotted all the men in booths drunkenly flirting with the women. They all laughed obnoxiously, a sound that was like nails on a chalkboard for Bruce.
“She your wife?” The bartender asked Bruce, he narrowed his eyes at the man.
“No.” He replied dryly.
“Oh, sorry, the officers in here like to spend their nights with plenty of women, and sometimes a wife or two tend to slip in. I’d say at least once a week I get a mad husband storming in here and trying to cause a fight.” The bartender spoke as he poured Bruce’s drink.
“Doesn’t sound very honourable.” Bruce judged as the bartender slid him his drink.
The bartender smiled, “I can tell you’re one of the good ones.” He commented. “You a General you said?” Bruce nodded and took a sip from his drink, the familiar burn of the alcohol somehow was stronger now. “I take it you’ll be attending the ball that they’re throwing for the militia?” Bruce’s eyes flicked up to the bartender.
“What ball?” He narrowed his eyes again at the man.
“The ball for the militia,” He repeated, “Don’t worry, you’ll get the invite soon, all militia will be in attendance.” He smiled and looked at Bruce, “Maybe you’ll find yourself a wife there.” He winked at him, a gesture Bruce just glared at. “Or not.” The bartender finished as he dried off a glass.
A ball would be the perfect place to gather intel and make connections , Bruce thought to himself.
His mind absently wondered to Diana, and if she had gathered the same information. He wondered if she would attend, how she would dress, if she would end up dancing.
His grip on his glass tightened, the thought of her made him so tense he could hardly breathe. Bruce threw back the rest of the drink, hoping it would help numb him and his damn cursed feelings.
Just as J’onn and Clark told them, their houses weren’t very far from each other’s. Although, their meeting point was a hustle to get to. Both of them had a secret latch in their floors that took them to their basement. Through the basement there was a long tunnel they had to walk through to reach a point that was exactly halfway between the two. They had to meet there at least once every few days to go over their plans.
Bruce held his torch and attempted to walk through the long tunnels to the safe room. His eyesight was blurred due to the amount of alcohol he had consumed, it was a lot stronger in this era than it was back home. He came to the door and grabbed the iron bar to pull it open. As he stepped in he spotted Diana sitting on one of the emergency beds, her torch placed in a socket on the wall.
Her head looked up to face him as he entered, she could tell he looked different, his eyes that usually held so much intensity and focus were now shiny and glazed over like donuts.
Bruce slid his torch into the other socket in the wall, the two lights making the room look visible. He saw a bed that he guessed was for emergencies, a stock of food, transportation pads, and the titanium box.
“Princess,” He greeted,
“You look like hell.” She commented to which Bruce just glared at her.
“I was at the pub.” Diana rolled her eyes.
“First day and you’re drinking, I’m surprised.” Bruce’s glare became harsher.
“I was gathering intel, I was at the pub where all the militia gather. The alcohol here is stronger than what it is back home.” Diana huffed and straightened her dress as she stood up.
“What intel have you gathered?” She asked him as she crossed her arms over her chest.
“That there’s a ball being held for the militia.” He answered her,
“I’ve heard the same. I take it, you'll be attending?” She asked him, partly for the mission and partly for her own curiosity.
“Of course. You?” He asked her, crossing his arms at her as well. She just nodded her head,
“Of course. It’s the best place-”
“To gather intel.” Bruce finished for her. Diana just looked at him for a moment, then slowly nodded.
“Yes.”
It became quiet between the two. A silence that beckoned a lot of questions.
Why don’t you look at me the same anymore?
Why don’t you care about me?
What did I do to deserve this?
I miss you.
Diana looked back at Bruce, whose eyes were less glossy as he stared at her intensely.
“I’ll see you at the ball, then.” She stated softly. Bruce nodded,
“Fine.”
Diana then exited, clutching the torch in her hand as she made her way back home.
Bruce stood in the emergency room for a bit longer, wishing he could have the strength to run after her.
But he just stood there.
And then he left.