Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It was late at night in Neo-Gotham.  At Neo Gotham’s bank, the key holder was closing up for the night, as it was his duty to do so, being the last one in the building.  He did his last minute rounds around the halls of the bank.  He was already about done until there was a sound echoing through the hall.  The key holder went to check it out.  His heart was beating, not sure what was going on.  He entered the next room to find that there was nothing wrong.  Waving his flashlight again to make sure, everything was alright.  So far nothing unusual was out there.  He continued walking until he got to the entrance of the building.  The key holder scanned by using his flashlight to make sure no one was there.  Before he could turn back to call it a night, he noticed the front door was opened slightly.  Confused, he went to check it out, closing it when he went closer.  The key holder was going to investigate if anyone was there, but when he turned around, he saw a woman dressed in white with a black cap.  Before he could do anything, she gave a smirk before plunging her scepter into his chest, shocking him.

A man who had dressed the same, but wearing a crown, came up behind the woman, putting his hand on her shoulder, “Well done my Queen, thanks to your staff the electricity has shut down anything that would trip the alarm”

The woman threw her arms around the man, pressing her lips onto his, “No need to thank me my King” the two continued to press their lips into each other.

“Oh for the love of can we just do this already” their son complained, as he bent down to remove the key card from the holder’s belt.

“Oh relax Jack, we are coming” King said, as he, Queen, Jack, and Ace were walking through the halls, to head into the vault.

Their daughter was waiting for them by the vault.  King walked out to approach her, “Ten did you shut down all the surveillance?” 

“I did, no one will know it was us” Ten smiled proudly, wearing a similar costume to her family, only it was half black, and white with the number ten next to her right side.

King didn’t show any emotions, instead he just walked past her.  Using the key he stole from the holder, he deactivated the vault, unlocking it.  Ace used his strength to open the door, ripping it off.  The group gets inside with their bags out, ready to unload the money that they see in front of them. 

“Do you think Batman will show up again?” Jack asked, taking his time to put the money in the bag that he had.

King scoffed, as he didn’t look at his son, continuing to walk, “Thats not Batman.  I fought him in my youth, and I am telling you that is not Batman” 

“Are you sure?” a voice came out of nowhere.

The Royal Flush Gang looked to see who it was.  The invisibility uncloaked revealing Batman standing on top of the entrance.  He used his jets to fly down lower ground. 

“Third time this week?  Do you guys ever get tired of robbing the same thing?” Batman asked, as he was mocking them.

Jack pulled out his dagger in an attempt to stab Batman, but he dodged, delivering an uppercut to the Royal Flush Gang member.  Ace immediately drove into the caped crusader, knocking him back.  Batman looked up to see the strong man.  Ace was tough, he wore all white with a black symbol on his chest.  No one could see his face with the mask covering everything, only his dark eyes were showing.  Batman looked around, found himself surrounded.  King smirked, as he drew his sword, “How disappointing, the real Batman would have seen that coming” 

“I am the real Batman” Gotham's protector said, blocking the strike of the sword.  He used his blades attached to the suit to break the blade in half before punching the King right in the face.  He then did a backflip after Ace tried to throw a punch, only to get shocked by Queen’s scepter.  Batman stood on one knee.  He tried to get up again, but was still shocked.  Finally he fell on both knees, trying to snap out of the dizziness.  

“McGinnis” a voice spoke to him through the comms.

“Mr. Wayne, in the middle of something now.  Trying to stop these clowns for the third time this week.  You never told me they would be this much of a pain in the ass” Terry whispered through his own comms.

“I told you to call me Oracle when you are out in the field.  Second they weren’t that tough in my day” Bruce Wayne said with almost sarcastic humor.

“That is comforting” Terry said, as he continued dodging any strikes that were aimed at him.

“Here's a tip, aim the scepter at Ace” Luke Fox who was also at the cave suggested this idea.

Bruce looked at him funny, raiseing an eyebrow, causing Fox to throw shade at him.  Wayne went to comms again, and told Terry to do it.

Terry moved away from the king, and took out a grappling hook at Queens Scepter, aiming it at Jack, who was pushed back against a wall.  He then broke it in half before punching Queen in the face, knocking her out.  King in ragged and charged at him.  Batman dodged the strikes before grabbing a fist, and using his jets to kick him back.  

Ace knocked Batman on the ground with a swing before grabbing him.  While this was happening, he looked at King, who seemed like he was getting into an argument with Ten.  They grabbed the money, getting ready to leave.  Not wanting to lose them again, Batman took out a taser, shocking the brute before headbutting him in the face, then sweeping his legs.  He flew up in the air with his jets before landing his knees on Aces stomach, causing him to stay down.

Batman turned around to see the last two members of the gang attempt to make an escape.  He found himself chasing them up to the end of the hall.  King stopped, tossing the bag of money to Ten, who made a run for it, leaving the two adversaries alone.  

“I’m impressed, I underestimated you Batman.  You were able to take three members of my family out, but that still doesn’t make you Batman.  He would have already caught us by now” King mocked him.

“I told you, I am different” Batman said again before engaging King in combat.  King pulled out his broken sword.  They would exchange blows.  Batman would dodge King’s sword.  Once he took a step back, King used his broken sword to shoot a laser at him, sending Batman on his back.  Batman quickly jumped kicking King back.  He then uses a batarang to knock the sword out of King's hand.  Angry, the leader of the Royal Flush Gang takes out two cards, throwing it at the caped crusader.  Batman would roll, avoiding the explosions.  He would then have a fist meet his jaw, as King threw a punch.  Batman would then throw a punch back, then a kick.  King pulled out a knife to try and stab his foe, but Batman just caught the wrist, twisting it.  He then kneaded him in the stomach before swinging another kick that would knock the crown off his head, sending the King to the ground.  He would then be put in handcuffs, so he wouldn't escape.

Batman would follow the trail where Ten was going by using the x-rays on his mask to see through the footprints that were left behind.  They led to an open window  Batman would step out, using his jets to fly up the roof .  He looked around to see five big cards on the ground.  Before he could turn around, he was kicked in the head.  Batman looked up to see it was Ten, she quickly went on her card, starting to float in the air.  Ten, she took off with the bag of money she, and her family stole.  Batman stood up, and flew after her.  The two were flying through the air, as he was chasing her.  Ten saw this, and stepped on her card, going faster, causing Batman to step on his jets to go faster.  He then attacked her from behind, tackling her to the pavement of the rooftop, dropping the bags of money in the air.  She stood up, attacking Batman with a kick, but the cape crusader caught the kick, tossing her back.  Ten took more cards, and threw them at him, but he dodged the explosions, continuing to block the hits.  Finally Batman used his plan to knock her in the face.  Ten stood up ready to defend herself.  Batman slowly walking had his mask's vision to montire her.  He could tell she was scared.

“Look I don’t know you that well, but I could tell you are different from the others in your family.  You just have to come with me, and go to the police.  Perhaps if you are honest they will let you have a deal” he offered out a friendly hand gesture.  Ten thinking about taking it instead kicked him in the face before running off.  He tried running after her, but she was nowhere to be seen.

Back at the Neo-Gotham bank the four members of the Royal flush gang were being taken into custody by the police.  Batman was watching above the roof of the building.  He then pressed his fingers onto his ear piece, “That was only four of them.  Ten got away” telling Bruce through his communication.

“I will let Barabra know that she should turn up security in case the girl trys to break them out” Bruce respond.

“I wouldn’t worry about it, I saw the look on her face.  Something tells me she didn’t want to be there” 

“Is that why you let her go?” Bruce asked.

“Let her go?  She sucker kicked me in the face” Terry responded.  He could hear Luke laugh through the comms.

“Only a woman could sucker punch Batman” Fox broke out in laughter, causing Bruce to slightly smile.  

Terry rolled his eyes, “If you excuse me, I have to get going” 

“One more thing, Dana stopped by to remind you that graduation is tomorrow and not to miss it” Bruce told Terry.

Terry sighed, “Don’t worry, I am on my way back now I just” suddenly while in the air Terry heard a scream.  He launched his jets lower, as he attempted to find who it was.  When he landed, he ran to an alley.  He found no one, but the body of a man.  The victim was dead.  Terry went to turn his head over, hsi eyes wide opened” 

“What is McGinnis?” Bruce asked with curiosity.  

Terry didn’t know what to say, as he stepped back.  The victim, he is an older man  seemingly in his late seventies to eighties.  Face was missing.  This made him speechless, as he didn’t know who it was that did this.

Chapter Text

Three months later…

Terry walked with Bruce, as they were entering the Commissioner's office, as Barbara had requested to speak with both of them.  They waited, Terry was skeptical why they were being called out of nowhere, especially when its been a year, and a half since being Batman.  Bruce however was calm, as he stood still holding his cain in his hands.  The door opened, as Commissioner Gordon stood there, “Bruce, McGinnis, thank you for coming.  Please come in” she said politely.  Terry looks at Bruce, as the two enter the office, sitting down.  Bruce had been here already,  when he went to see Jim Gordon many times.  Terry could see it, as he saw him looking at the pictures of the deceased Commissioner in it, his frame was right across from them attached to the upper wall in the room.  Barbara caught him looking at the picture above before she brought a cup of coffee for the two before making one for herself, “Must be weird for you Bruce to be here”

“Just been a while, never thought I would be here, and your father not being here” 

Barbara gave him a side smile, “Me too old friend”

“I assume you didn’t call us to go down memory lane?” Bruce asked.

Barbara shook her head, “No it isn’t” she passed down photos to the two, showing pictures of a deceased person.  His face was covered in bandages.  Barabara passed down the next picture to see the deceased having no face, but blood covering the skin.

“These were taken last night.  The victim was found dead, his face was missing when we found him in an alley”

That is when Terry recalled what he saw months ago, “Wait a minute, I’ve seen this before.  Three months ago I found another victim like this, but they didn’t have bandages on”

“That's right, we were able to identify him.  The victim used to carry a puppet with him, do you remember Bruce?”

“The Ventriloquist” he murmured, but he looked at Barbara, “I’ve been keeping an eye on Mr. Wesker, he hasn’t done a single thing wrong since Scarface was destroyed, and he got out of Blackgate.  He retired and worked as an antiquest.  People liked going to his store  There should be no reason to be targeted”

Barbara shook her head, “I agree, but it gets worse'' She  showed him the pictures of other people killed in the same way, criminals.  They all had bandages.  She turned her head towards Bruce, “What do you think Bruce?  Any connections?” she asked him, as he was silent while words were being exchanged.  Bruce looked at the photos, then retained the photograph memory from the one Terry saw.  He looked back at her, “I do, no face, only bandage, you know one person who would do that” 

“Hush” Barbara blurted out.

Terry was confused, as he looked at them, “Hush, who is Hush?” he asked.

“Thomas Elliot, he was a friend of mine, who secretly hated me.  He would cut the face of victims to try, and make it look like my face in order to destroy my life” Bruce passed the photos back.

“He is dead though'' Barbara spoke out loud.

Bruce nodded his head, “Indeed I was there.  He died by throwing himself through a window” 

“Even if he was alive, why would he attack former criminals, and petty criminals?  That doesn’t make sense” Barbara said, but before any more words could be explained a woman in her early twenties with dark hair, and blue eyes.  She stood with her arm by the door with the officer trying to stop her.

“Mary I didn’t expect to see you so soon” Barbara stood up, waving her hand for the officer to go.

The younger woman smiled, “Hey Mom” she said while walking in, giving The Commissioner a hug.

Terry was surprised, already knowing the Commissioner wasn’t married.  Bruce on the other hand already knew about her.

“Bruce, Terry, this is my Daughter Mary.  Mary Grayson” 

“Grayson?  As in” just as Terry was about to ask, he was cut off.

“That's right Richard, Dick Grayson is my father” 

Barbara looked at Mary with a suspicious face, “Does your father know you are here?” starting to fold her arms.

“I told him, but I am an adult now, I have the right to come see my own mom” Mary gave her mother an attitude that Bruce was familiar with.  He saw her as a younger version of her parents.

Barbara sighed, as she put away the folder before looking at the two, “Bruce, McGinnis, I am sorry, but I have to cut my time short.  Talk later?”
“We will be in touch” Bruce said, as he was leaving.  Terry looked at the two before walking out with Bruce.

“I didn’t know Barbara, and Grayson had a kid” Terry said after walking out of the building, getting into the car.  He put the keys in as Bruce spoke, “Dick, and Barbara were married for several years.  Dick wanted to retire, and move out of the city.  Barbara wanted to stay, and continue the work her father did.  Dick didn’t like that, so they ended on mutual agreements.  He brought Mary with him, so she wouldn’t be caught up in all the chaos that goes on in this city” 

“Right, now what do we do about this case?” Terry asked to change the subject.

“I don’t know.  Whoever it is seems to be following Tommy’s work.  You will have to check it out tonight” 

“So much for my plans with Dana tonight” Terry said sarcastically.  All Bruce did was give him a grin before Terry drove them off.

Later that night, McGinnis in his batsuit flew the batmobile to the grave of the Elliots, for the grave with Thomas Elliots name.  He pressed the button that launched a hook that connected to the coffin below the ground.  He levitated the vehicle to lift it up before stepping out, and using his suits jets to land him on the low ground, “Are you sure this is a good idea?” Terry asked, talking to Bruce through his comms.

“I’m certain.  I also need to know if Tommy is really alive” 

Terry slowly walked to the coffin, “Hey Bruce, just curious if Doctor Elliot was really one of your enemies, why did you have him buried here?” 

“We weren’t always enemies, Tommy, and I were childhood friends once, although he secretly hated me”

“But why?” 

“Because he was jealous of my wealth.  His family was also wealthy.  Before my parents were murdered, his was in a car accident, or that's what I thought at first.  It was really Tommy because he wanted to inherit his family wealth, so he messed with the car's brakes in order to kill them.  My father couldn't save his, but he saved his mother.  There were complications, and Tommy had to help take care of her, he resented me, and my family ever since.  I always believed deep down we still were friends, that is why I buried him next to his parents”

“Still what he tried to do to this city, I would never have been that honorable.  I would never have let Powers off like that” 

“Terry, part of being Batman is to show your enemies you are better than what they are, no matter what they have done to you.  Now is there a body?” 

“Looking now” Terry removed the top of the coffin.  There was nothing but bones.  Terry could smell the rotting corpse from the inside of his mask.  He observed it before pressing his index finger to his ear, “Hey Bruce, I found the body.  There are bones in it, I’m analyzing the DNA” picking a piece of bone before going back into the batmobile, as he puts the coffin back, and puts it like it never left.  Terry was looking at the data.  It completed before he spoke to Bruce again, “Data is complete” 

“What did you find?” Bruce asked Terry.

“According to the data these are the bones of Doctor Elliot”

“So someone else is masquerading as Hush”

Terry was steding the batmobile, planning to go back to the batcave, but he heard the radar go off  as he was piloting the vehicle, “Looks like duty calls.  I will see you at the cave” he hung up, and stepped out of the vehicle, using his jets to fly.

Ten was seen going into stores with her bag that was filled with cash from the atms she broke into.  Just when she was about to step on her card outside, a batarang went in between her feet, and her ride out of here. 

 Batman flew down, “Its been months, I thought you’d escape” he folded his arms, as he let Ten make her move.  She dropped the bag, and ran up to him,to fight.  She threw punch, after punch, but Batman just dodged it before throwing back his own punch to send her back.  Ten would then take a card, and throw it at him, but once again Batman avoided it, throwing his batarang to counter the explosion.  It knocked her to the ground.  He then walked up, as she looked helpless.

“Please, I just want to get out of town” Ten pleaded, but Batman refused.

“Sorry, but last time I lowered my guard, you sucker kicked me in the head, and got away.  You are just going to do the same thing again” he said, taking out the handcuffs.

“That was to just get away.  I never wanted to be a part of my family business, but my father forced me into it.  Now that he, and the rest of my family are gone, I want out.  Please I will never come back here, or steal a thing again, I promise”

“AGHHHHH”

Before Batman could think of that, he heard the scream from behind.  Not thinking about who he was dealing with, Terry rushed off.  He saw a young woman on the streets being attacked by a man in a trench coat.  She couldn’t see his face because he was covered in bandages.  The woman's whole arm was covered in cuts from the knife.   Before he could finish the job, Batman jumped and kicked him into the ground.  He turned around, and told the woman to go, leaving the two of them.

“Found him, Oracle” Batman told Bruce.

“Good, just be careful.  If he is somehow connected to the original Hush, he will be just as dangerous” Bruce who was going by the Oracle name now warned him.

Hush glared at his foe before pointing the knife at him, Batman dodged, and threw a punch, but Hush caught it, kicking him back.  He then knocked the knife, but Hush head butted him in the face before running off.  Batman got up, and chased after him.  The two ran into an ally, Hush threw garbage cans to throw the dark knight off.  He then climbed the fence, running towards a ladder.  Batman flew up on the rooftop, beating him there.  Hush got up, and used his shoulder to knock him to the ground.  Much to Batman kicking him back.  Much to hi's surprise, This Hush was putting up a good fight.  The bandaged man then took a batarang from Batman’s belt, and jammed it into the back of Batman’s suit.  He then used this opportunity, and ran off again.  Terry couldn’t use his jets, so he ran after him the old fashion way.  His youth was able to get him ahead, tackling him, bringing the two close to the ledge of the building.  He kept the criminal on the ground. 

“Alright Hush its over” just as Batman was about to unbandage him, Hush took a gun, and pointed it directly at Batmans chest.

“Just Hush” he then fired the weapon, hitting Batman at point blank range.  He then fell off of the building.  Terry tried to grab on to something, but ended up missing his hand, causing him to take the fall.  After that he was unable to get up, keeping his eyes shut.  Hush looked down to have a smirk on his face before leaving.

Bruce heard the fall, and saw Terry’s vital signs.  He tried to reach him through his communication.

“McGinnis, can you hear me?  McGinnis?  Terry come in!”

Just as this was unfolding, a group of thugs came out of the shadows, seeing Batman’s unconscious body just laying there flat on the ground.  The five circled him, as Neo Gotahm’s protector was helpless.

Chapter Text

“McGuiness?  Terry?  TERRY COME IN” Bruce found himself yelling, doing anything he can to wake him up.  He pressed the shock button for the suit in hopes it would help, but Terrys eyes didn’t open.  Instead the electricity sent the thugs back, as one of them tried to remove the Batman mask.  Luke Fox, who was with Bruce the whole time, looked at him.  Wayne nodded, as Luke walked out.

The thugs who circled Terry's body were debating what to do with the unconscious crime fighter, but before neither of them could do anything a woman told them to stop.  They watched as she leaped from the balcony and onto the ground.  Her whole body was covered with black leather. Her fingers were the only part sticking out of her gloves.  She wore a mask that covered her face with her hair tied back.

“Why, hello there, lost little lady?  Why don’t you take off the mask, and I’ll point you in the right” before the guy could finish, the masked woman grabbed his wrist, the one about to touch her while she twisted it, breaking the wrist, causing him to scream in pain.  She then kicked him in the chin, knocking him out.

The other four thugs left the unconscious Batman to go after her.  The woman put up a fight.  She kept avoiding all of their attacks.  Quickly she put a leg around a guys neck while she had him on the ground.  This caused him to pass out.  The woman then was lifted by the shoulders and grabbed behind the back.  She used her nails to claw his face before throwing a punch that knocked him out.  After she felt herself flip back as one guy pulled out a crow bar.  She kicked it out of his hand, but his partner tackled her to the ground.  Two legs were then folded around the attacker, arms around neck, causing him to pass out.  She lifted herself up before she first met the other guy's face.  He laid there, as he was bleeding from the nose.  A foot then met his head as he was knocked unconscious.  She then turned to face the last man standing.  This one was bigger than the others.  The masked woman went forward, striking him in the face with a punch, then kicking before he grabbed it, tossing her back.  He then put his hands around her neck, causing her to use her arms to break his grip.  He tried to hit her again, but she hopped over his back, kicked him in the head.  This caused the thug to fall on the floor.  He got up, but the woman in black leaped over, meeting her leg against his face, knocking him out.

She got up, as she was making her way towards the still unconscious Batman.  The woman wasn’t sure what she should do, but before she could do anything a figure stood in between them.  Her head tilted in confusion, as the man in gray armor spoke, “Keep away from him” his voice echoing through his helmet that covered his face.   The woman looked and saw he had a bat symbol attached to the armor.  She stepped back, but the armored man looked behind him, then back to her, “What did you do?” he asked.

“I didn’t do anything, he was like that when I arrived, I was just trying to help” she told him, pointing to Batman’s body.

“Who are you anyways?” He asked her, but she didn’t respond.  He tried to grab her mask but ended up being tossed to the ground by the masked woman's quick reflexes.

“Alright that does it” he said standing up annoyed.

“Easy Fox, you are here for McGinnis remember”

Luke was talking through his comms as his persona as Batwing ,”I know, don’t worry it will only be a minute” 

The two swapped hands.  The woman in black had her fist met Fox’s helmet, but he wasn’t phased, instead he punched her back.  He tried to do it again, but she kept dodging.  She tried to hit him, but the armor was his protection.  He grabbed her fist, then tossed her to the ground.  

Before he knew it, the woman pulled a taser, shocking the suit.  This caused Luke’s suit to short circuit , causing him to fall to the ground.  The woman in black took this as an opportunity to get away.

“Fox, can you hear me?” Bruce tried reaching out.

“Yeah just a sec, I got shocked, Rebooting my systems, hold on” after sometime Luke was able to fix his Batwing suit, bring himself to his feet.

“The woman, she got away” before Luke was going to go after her, Bruce stopped him.

“Don’t, let her go for now.  Just get to Terry” 

Luke turned his direction towards Terry, using his helmet to scan his vitals, “Good news, Terry is alive.  He seemed to have taken a bullet through the chest,  Luckily the armor protected him, but it does look like he could have a concussion, maybe a couple of broken ribs” 

“Get him back here immediately” Bruce ordered him.

“Right away boss” Luke pressed the button on Terry’s belt to call the batmobile.  There, he carried him up there, putting him in the seat next to him.  It didn’t take long for Luke to figure out the controls since he helped build it.  When he was done, he flew him, and the injured Terry back to the cave.

The batmobile flew in the cave.  Bruce was already at the table waiting for them with the medic kit that Alfred used to carry.  Luke got out, bringing Terry’s body to the table.  He had removed the mask, and the top piece to the suit.  Bruce was examining his body before getting to work.  Luke had a concerned look, he could tell that Bruce’s hand that held the kit was shaking.  He went up, and spoke, “Bruce, I could do it” he offered, but Bruce shook his head.

“I’m fine” he said.

“At least let me help” Luke offered again.

“No, I got it I said” Bruce gave an annoyed glare at Fox.  Luke backed off, wanting to focus more on Terry.  He watched, as Bruce was working tirelessly to help Terry.  He had taken interest in him like he treated the young man as his own, but  Luke could tell, he was exhausted.  Bruce over the age of  seventy, was well for his age, but he found himself out of breath.  Bruce took some pills to help his pain before sitting down.  The two stayed by Terrys side, waiting for him to get up.

Meanwhile in the city the woman in black climbed to a roof of a building, she had sat down after constant running, and climbing.  She removed her mask.  Mary looked into the sky before looking back at the mask she was wearing, “Good one Mary so much for not getting caught” she said to herself out loud before she laid back down, looking at the sky.

Chapter Text

After a while, McGinnis woke up, his head, and ribs covered in bandages.  He stood up before he found Bruce telling him to take it easy.

“What happened?” Terry asked, as he was rubbing his head in confusion, seeing his suit on the floor.  He was even more surprised to see Luke was in a suit of his own.  It was almost identical to his suit, but different colors.  He looked at him, raising an eyebrow.

Bruce explained, “You were knocked out, and not responding, so I sent Fox after you”

“So that's why I rarely see you these days.  I thought you were filling in for Bruce since he took back Wayne Enterprise.  What about your leg?” 

“My leg is fine.  Bruce was able to ask for a favor to get me a leg, so I could go back out there to help you if needed.  Found my old suit, works, but I still have to update it” Luke feeling proud of himself.  He looked at his helmet, then at Terry, “How are you feeling at least”

“Terrible, like I got hit by a train or something.  Last thing I remember is I was looking for the Hush copycat, then he shot me, and I fell”

“Yeah, the imposter shot you” Bruce pointed out, “Lucky for you, you were protected by the suit otherwise you would be dead”

“Did you get a sight of the victim?”Luke asked.

Terry shook his head, “I did actually, but it wasn’t a criminal.  It was a woman, she looked scared, but who wouldn’t blame her”

Luke looked at Bruce, “You said this new guy was targeting common criminals?” 

“I thought so too.  We will have to look at this in the morning.  You should rest Terry, you've been out for a while”

Terry looked at the time across from him, “Crap, I have school!” he stood up, holding himself together.

“You should just take off” Bruce suggested.

Terry shook his head, “Can’t first day, promised Dana, I would walk with her to class” 

“Then I suggest you get some sleep, you have a few hours to do that” Bruce told him before turning his back.  Terry got up, going upstairs to his room.

It was early morning, Terry woke up like he was hung over.  He looked at his alarm, it was seven.  Terry rushed to get ready before going downstairs.  Bruce was sitting by the table, drinking his tea.  Terry took his coffee to drink, waiting for himself to wake up before he went to Gotham University.  Suddenly a doorbell rang.  Terry went to get it, opening the door.  He looked like a middle aged man with white lines on the sides of his white long hair that had small dark lines with a white beard covering his face.

“Hello, is Bruce Wayne here?” he asked.  Before Terry could say anything, he heard Bruce behind him, “Dick?  This is a surprise, come in” 

Dick Grayson stepped in, as he made eye contact with Terry, then Bruce.  Bruce walked up to him, “Dick this is Terry McGinnis.  Terry this is Dick Grayson” 

“Mr. Grayson, pleasure to meet you.  Bruce told me about you” Terry shaking his hand.

“I’m sure he did, Bruce I need to speak to you” 

Bruce looked at Terry, who looked at him back, “Go, I will see you later” Terry nodded his head, waving to the two before walking out with his bag.

Once the door closed, Dick, and Bruce stared at each other, not talking in years.  He broke the silence, “So he is the new Batman?”

“He could just be an assistant” Bruce pointed out, but Dick wasn’t buying it.

“Come on Bruce, I see the news.  Its clear, he is the new Batman”

“Is that what you came here to discuss?” 

Dick shook his head, “No, I came to see my daughter”

“Mary?  I saw her yesterday, talking to Barbara.  She said you knew” 

Dick shook his head again, “No.  Lately we have butted heads.  We fought about it one night, and she ran away.  I figured she would come here.  I planned to see Barbara, I just wanted to make sure she wasn’t here.  Mary was inspired by stories about us.  I trained her myself so she could defend herself, but a few times, I saw her sneak out fighting crime.  That is actually why she left.  Look I am sorry to bother you, I will go”

“Dick, why don’t you stay for coffee.  Its been a while, I would like to catch up”

Dick almost taken aback by this smile, as he took the offer.

Terry found himself feeling confused during class.  The only thing that could keep him awake was the bruises from the cracked ribs he received last night.  He dozed off until Dana tapped him on the arm, “Terr, are you alright, you look terrible” she asked him in a playful way.  Terry was least relieved that she had no clue about his activities.  He looked at her, and smiled, Terry was never a school person.  He only agreed to attend Gotham University because Dana was doing it.

“I’m fine Dana just long hours thats all” he reassured her.  Class ended, and the two were walking out of class alone.

“Helping Mr. Wayne?  I’m sorry Terry, but he has you working way long hours”

“I know, but I need this job, and besides I live with the guy” 

“Perhaps you could find a place on your own now that you are an adult.  Perhaps with someone” Terry knew what she was referring to.  Dana had tried to talk him into moving in with her since high school was ending.  She stopped, and touched his hands, “You know my parents are real estate agents.  My dad has a spare apartment.  Perhaps you could move in there with me?” 

Terry almost felt bad.  He had been in love with Dana forever.  This would be a big step, but he knows his responsibilities, especially his night job, she didn’t even know what he was doing.  What would she say if she saw him running off every night?

  Terry pulled his hands away, “I want Dana, but I really am okay with what I’m doing, and besides Mr. Wayne took back his company.  He could give me a high position that could do well with both of us in the future” he looked at her, and she gave him a sad smile, but understood.  He could tell she wasn’t happy.  Terry felt bad, but he wasn’t ready to reveal everything.  

“Right, I understand too soon.  Just don’t work too hard, remember we still have school” she pulled him along, as the two were walking off.  What Terry didn’t know was that he was being watched from a distance. 

Amanda Waller was using her spie cameras to keep watch on McGinnis.  She sipped her drink, watching the young man walk off with his girlfriend.  She then heard a knock, “Come in” she said with a sower face, turning off the cameras.  A woman stood in front of her, minor cuts on her arm.  She was wearing bandages.

“Ah Ms. Elliot you've come, have you found our missing friend” Waller asked, already knowing the answer. 

“He got away.  He is committing murders.  Becoming dangerous, almost killed me” 

“I could see that” Waller acted like she cared, but the two knew she didn’t.

“We need to do something.  This is getting out of hand” Nora pointed out.

“I see the new Batman already met the new Hush” 

“He is going to find out sooner or later.  When he does he is going to be able to trace Hush back to you” Nora told her.  

“Is the lab secured?” That is all Waller could ask.

“For now, but Batman will find it eventually” 

Amanda stood up from her seat, “I have to run” 

“You have got to be kidding.  You forget this mess is your fault.  People are dying” 

“Criminals you mean” Waller shot back.

“Also former Criminals, this isn’t what I signed up for” 

“Like I said, I have to go.  We keep this quiet.  I have faith our new Batman will be able to stop him” Waller then took her things, and left.  While she was walking out of her building, she was stopped by Bruce Wayne.  He stood there alone with a face that didn’t seem happy to see her.

Waller just looked at the old man with a grin, “Bruce Wayne, so good to see you.  Have to say I’m surprised to see you here”

Bruce walked forward with his cain, approaching her more closely, “We need to talk, now”

Chapter Text

The two former adversaries found themselves in a coffee shop.  Amanda Waller who wanted to keep Bruce Wayne away from her work by taking him away from the building.  Bruce found it obvious, but he listened.  Waller had already sealed her work so he wouldn’t even get a glance at it.  The two dranked their drinks before staring at each other for minutes.  Bruce took one more sip of his coffee before putting his cup down.

“We need to talk” Bruce said grimly.

Waller chuckled, “You said that already.  What about?  I have been retired for years.  From what I see on the news you haven’t took a break”

“I’m retired as well”

“Then explain why there's a new Batman.  Its clear he is associated with you.  How is Mr. McGinnis?” Amanda proceeds to keep pushing Bruce's buttons.

Bruce squinted his eyes.  The waitress offered to refill his coffee, but Bruce didn’t acknowledge her, so she left. 

 “It was you who overwrote his DNA wasn’t it?” he asked.

“What makes you think it was me?” Amanda asked innocently.

“Who else knew of my identity with the resources to overwrite someone's DNA without me knowing?” Bruce glaring at her again before taking a sip of coffe. 

“How long have you known?” Waller finally puts her cup down to have a serious conversation.

“Is it true?” Bruce found himself asking again.

“Its true” she admitted.

Bruce leaned in closer, “Why?”

“Its simple, I come to respect you well enough that I know the world will always need a Batman.  Your true born son away.  Your adopted sons retired, with no interest in inheriting the mantle, so I decided to take measures into my own hands”

“You overwrote someone's DNA with mine, robbing him of a father, and you did it without my permission” Bruce stated.

“Oh don’t be upset with me.  You have to admit you wanted this.  Tell me, have you told him yet?” Waller asked, but Bruce shook his head.  She had another cup of her drink, “Good, if you did then Terry would walk away, and all my efforts would have been from nothing.  The Batman legacy would die, and no one would protect Gotham now would they”

“This new Hush, is he also a clone you're doing?”

“You were the world's greatest detective, why don’t you figure it out” Waller stood up to walk away. 

“Amanda I need to know” Bruce tried to reach out in a last attempt.

Amanda turned around, “Its not McGinnis, don’t worry” she then walked out, leaving Bruce a mystery to solve.

Later that day Terry, and Dana were walking with their friends.  McGinnis was never much of a social person, but he wanted to spend time with Dana.  The group were walking into a restaurant.  It had a bar stand where people their age would go.  Things were going great for them.  They sat for a while with Dana having a drink with everyone else, but Terry didn’t have any, and stood besides her.  Terry, interested in what was going on, walked to the otherside of the room.  A woman with blond hair, and blue eyes.  She had to be around his age.  She had been beating people at cards, and it was rumored she had a winning streak.  She looked up at Terry, and smiled, “Names Melanie, what's your name?” she asked him.

“Terry” 

“Well Terry, think you can beat my winning streak?” Melanie challenged him.  Terry, not that could be surprised he was doing well.  He thought he was winning, he had a good hand, but lost when Melanie had aces.  They played again, but Melanie still won

“Nice try, you know I play mostly with bets right?” she said, smiling. Terry was speechless, but Melanie continued, “Don’t worry handsome, I will make an expectation for you” she said walking up closer like she was about to something, but Terry turned away when he saw Dana, “Hey Dana” 

“Terry, who is this?” she asked, raising an eyebrow.  

Terry looked at them, and knew Dana wasn’t happy like a hint of jealousy when she raised an eyebrow, wondering if she heard Melanie trying to flirt with him or something, so he quickly changed the subject, “Dana this is Melanie she had challenged me to cards”

“Oh, how did he do?” she asked Melanie.

Melanie giggled, “Well not bad, but he doesn't know what he is doing.  Well I got to get back  home, see you around Terry” she winked before leaving.

Terry looked at Dana and she was pissed, but kept quite.  She turned to Terry, “Foods here come on lets eat” dragging him away by the arm.

Later that night it was the two of them at her house alone.  “Terry?  Terr, you there?” Dana called out on him, but Terry was zoned out, already half tired.

“Yeah, sorry about that Dana, just tired” he leaned back, finding himself in pain.

“Are you okay?” she started to get concerned, as he has been like that all day.

“Yeah, just didn’t sleep well, I guess”

Dana folded her arms, as she stopped with what she was doing, “This isn’t the first time I've seen you like this.  What's going on?  Like for real?”

Terry had wanted to tell her the truth, but Bruce had warned him of the consequences of doing that, so instead he had to lie.  As he could feel his ribs, he could see the concern look on his girlfriend, “I’m fine, I promise” he felt his lips touch hers.  A phone rang, interrupting them.  Terry looked at who it was and sighed, “Its Bruce” he looked at Dana, who nodded her head at him, taking the call, “Hello?”

“Terry, I need you at the mansion now.  Its in regards to, well you know” Bruce said without saying it.

Terry looked at Dana, then back at the phone, “Alright, I’ll be right there” he hung up the phone, then looked at Dana, almost like he was guilty, “I’m sorry, but I got to go”

“Of course you do right when things were getting good” 

“Dana” before Terry could speak she cut him off.

“Go I understand” she had her back turned, not wanting him to see the disappointed look on her face.

Terry came back to the mansion.  Once he got inside, he made his way towards the batcave.  Terry came down to see Luke working on the suit, but it wasn't his, the suit he was working on was for himself.  Before he could say anything to him, he turned to see Bruce with Barbara.  Bruce turns his head towards Terry before speaking, “Terry”

“Bruce, what's going on?” Terry was already aware that they were discussing something regarding the killer he encountered.

Barbara then spoke, “We were discussing on what we should do about this new identity thief”

“Do you think he knows who we are?” Terry asked fearfully.

Bruce shook his head, “We don’t know, but we need to find some way to take him down”

“Any idea?” Terry asked.

“We do actually.  We know that there's a pattern” Barbara spoke before Bruce cutted in.

“We know he is killing criminals, old, and petty, so I was thinking he could be going after old rogues of mine”

“How do you know?” Terry sees that Bruce is keeping something from him, but he didn’t want to push for it.

“I just do, but we plan on baiting him” 

Barbara then cut in, “This will take place in Arkham Asylum.  Some of our old rogues will be there.  Once this killer comes in, we will take him down”

“He might be a little dangerous for the police, don't you think?” Terry questioned, as he looked at Barbara.

“That's why we need you, and Luke to be there,  You will be our back up” Barbara pointed out. 

“Alright, is my suit fixed?” Bruce pointed to Terrys direction.  He walked to wear the costume cases.  He noticed that the suit was new.  Red lines across the batsuit.  The face mask was the same.

Bruce walked over, “The suit was damaged from the fall, so I had it upgraded”  

“Schway”

“So Bruce are we doing this?” Barbara asked him.

“Of course, and I will be there” everyone in the room turned their heads towards Bruce like he was crazy.

Terry was the first one that said, “Bruce, are you serious?”

 “I am, I want to see this imposture for myself, which is why no one will interfere until I give the signal” he looked at Terry grimly.

Barbara, and Luke looked at him, and wanted him to not go, but they knew better then to tell him otherwise, so they kept quiet.

Arkham Asylum:

Bruce toured the asylum where he used to put away his villains after capturing them.  For him that was long ago, until then half the villains reformed, and left Gotham, or they hadn’t changed, and continued remaining locked up.  Bruce popped his head towards a cell that belonged to his friend Harvey Dent aka Two-Face.  It was empty, as Harvey eventually got better, moving out of the city to start a new life.  Next to that cell was the Calendar Man.  He was old, his beard grown, and uncombed.  He stared at his calendar counting the holidays.  His cell carven with markings eventually lost count after being locked up for so long.

“Everyone is in position, I sent most of the staff into a safe room.  Are you sure you want to do this?” Barbara asked Bruce again.

Bruce turned back, looking at Barabra’s blue eyes before speaking, “I do”

“Why do I have a feeling there is something you are not telling me?”  

“Just get ready, I am sure this imposture is here” Barbara who was ready to argue grew more suspicious, but dismissed it, as she agreed with Bruce.  She had pressed the comms in her ear, telling her men to get ready, as she left Bruce alone to walk through the halls.

Bruce stayed where he was, watching the inmates until he turned around, as a man with a trench coat stepped out of the shadows.

“I was wondering when you would show” 

Hush looking at Bruce, then turning his gaze at the inmates scoffed, “You would protect these criminals?” glaring at the old man.

“We don’t play jury, and executioner.  These inmates are serving their time, now who are you?” Bruce asked who he thinks is an imposter.

“I am the one that will cleanse Gotham of this disease”

Bruce stepped back, as GCPD stepped forward with their guns out.  Barbara was one of them, demanding that Hush put his hands in the air.  Hush did as he was told, however they didn’t notice that there was a knife in his hands.  He quickly goes behind Bruce, putting the blade close to his neck, threatening to cut his throat.  Bruce was calm, he lifted his cain, hitting Hush in the face before backing away.  From the shadows Batman, and Batwing came out with Terry throwing his batarang, hitting the knife Hush had.

The identity thief then found he was outnumbered with police.  Batman, and Batwing were ready, taking a defensive stance.  This caused Hush to pull out a gun, causing the police to flex theirs, but instead of aiming it at one of them, he shot the lights, causing the room to go dark.  Batman turned on his night vision as well as Batwing, each of them saw Hush, as he was killing the cops who couldn’t see.  Batman was the first one to go who tackled him to the ground.  He then grabbed the gun, throwing it away before he punched his adversary again.  

The Generator from the asylum came back on, making the room red.  Barbara looked at her fellow cops to see some were dead or some were injured.  Batman held Hush to the ground.  

“Its over Hush” Batman declared, as he held the intruder down.

  There was a chuckle coming through the bandages of the identity thief, “Is it now?” As soon as there was a detonator in his hands everyone flitched.  Before anyone could make a move, the detector went off, causing the building to start to collapse.  Hush kicked Batman out of the way so he could escape.  The rubble fell on him as well as everyone else.

Chapter Text

Thanks to the enhancements built in Terry’s suit he was able to receive little damage from the rubble.  He stretched his arm, reaching for the concrete, so he could pull himself out.  When he did he couldn’t believe it, the whole place was on fire.  Arkahm Asylum was literally burning to the ground.  The cofficers that assisted Gordon were either injured or still being pulled out of the rubble.  He heard another cop confirm two were dead.

Before he could even think about Hush, there was a sound coming from behind him.  Batman pulled out a batarang, but he lowered his arm when he found it was Luke pulling himself out. 

“Are you okay?” he asked Luke.  

“I’m fine, but where is Bruce?” 

Terry froze, he was caught up in the moment that he remembered Bruce went with him.  The two walked up to Barbara, but it was too late.  She was on her knees holding an unconscious Bruce Wayne.  The two ran closer to them with Luke used his Batwing suits to check his vital signs, “It’s not good, he is not breathing” 

Without thinking, Batman pushed the two aside, using his suit gloves to place it on Bruce’s chest.  Charging a surge of electricity, he used it to try to start his heart.  It didn’t work, so he tried again.  “Come on!” he said, trying again, but nothing happened.  Barbara, and Luke looked at each other trying to pull Terry back before he tried again, “COME ON” he found himself yelling under the mask, growing more frustrated.

He pumped his chest again, using his hands.  The three looked at each other.  They almost gave up hope, but Bruce gasped for air before passing out.  

Barbara quickly called for a medic to get him to the hospital.  The three of them took a sigh of relief.  

Batman, and Batwing looked around the area to check out the prisoners.  A majority were dead while some were injured.  This sickened them, and Barbara, knowing that some of these criminals were reforming, getting better.  Some of them were paying for their crimes.  Even though most of them committed the worst of the crimes this was a terrible act to take place. 

One officer she approached the three, “Commissioner”

“Have you found Hush?” Barbara asked him, but the officer shook his head.

“We couldn’t find him, he must have escaped after the explosion, but we still have to count the people below” 

Before anything was said, Batman, and Batwing left the scene, much to their pain not wanting to leave Bruce, but Barbara assured them it was going to be alright, and encouraged them to go.  The two ran out, making their way towards the lower levels of the facility.  Looking at their surroundings they saw the whole building came down.  There were flames everywhere, and rubble around them, blocking off parts of the building from exiting.  The once great place that held the worst in Gotham and fell.  After using explosive gel on the rubble blocking the exit, Batwing activated the detonator to blow it up.  They found this room was also affected by the explosion.  Those that worked at the facility were placed here for protection.  The two right away started helping out.  Lucky for them no one died, but there were a few injured or stuck with them below the building.  

“Everyone alright?” Batman asked.

They shook their heads, as they grabbed both Batman, and Batwings hands to pull them out of the room they were in before it collapsed.  

After getting the security, and the employees outside where everyone else was being evacuated.  Once that was done, the two decided to swoop other parts of the area from east wing to west wing.  The explosion had gone off everywhere.  This left an opportunity for inmates that were not affected by the attack to break out.  They tried to jump the vigilantes, but both Batman, and Batwing were able to knock them to the ground.  When that was done they rescued other victims that were trapped.  This was a mess, but Terry was taking it the hardest.  Luke could tell by how hard he was squeezing his hand.  He wasn’t holding back when he started to take the inmates out that tried to attack him, but at the very end Terry was able to keep a grip from causing unnecessary harm to the prisoners.  This was likely the first time that Terry had experienced something like this.  Many innocents were either badly injured by the attack or most of them were dead.  The whole area was in chaos.  Once they finished swooping the area, the two decided to go back to meet with Commissioner Gordon.

When they got to where Barbara was, which was the front of the building, there was an ambulance in front of the asylum.  More came, as they were taking the victims to the hospital.  One in particular was carrying Bruce Wayne.  Barbara stood by his side, as they drove him off.  Batman, and Batwing watched from a distance.  Barbara walked up the hill to meet with them. 

“We swooped everywhere, but we couldn’t find Hush.  My it was a nightmare through the facility, even the outside areas were affected” Luke talked, as he shook his head, recalling what had happened.

“That’s a shame, we will get him though” Barbara said, looking off into the distance.

“What about Bruce?” Terry interrupts the two.

“I don’t know, he is being rushed to the hospital now.  Honestly I’m not sure what the condition is.  Doctors have him on life support.  They are checking him out now before he goes to the hospital”

“This shouldn’t have happened, we should have known something like this was a mistake” Terry sounded more upset, as he looked at the damaged building.

Barbara, and Luke could tell how upset he was.  She took off her glasses, pinching between her eyes.

“Look Terry, Bruce knew the risks.  We all did, that’s why we attempted this.  Yes we failed, but we will catch him.  Right now dwelling over it won’t help” she tried to assure him.

“Still Bruce shouldn’t have gone” Terry argued.

“He was determined, I don’t know why, but he wanted to be there” Barbara said, reminding Terry.

“Well now what?” Luke asked her, looking at the two.

Barbara responded, “Nothing go home, I will be at the hospital in the morning 

Terry reluctantly agreed, and he and Luke left the area.  There was nothing left for them.  It was over and the villain had gotten away.  He looked back to see Dick Grayson with his daughter Mary.  Barbara went to talk to them.  Using this opportunity, he, and Luke took off.

Barbara looked off with her arms folded until she heard someone calling her name, then realizing its her ex husband.  She turned to see Mary was with him before looking back at Dick.  He had already seen Bruce being taken by the ambulance.  He was confused, so he turned to his ex wife, “Barbara what happened?” he asked her.

Barbara gave him a sad look, not sure where to start.

Chapter Text

Mary had dressed in all black.  She put on her gloves, then tied her light brown hair before putting on her mask.  She looked through the mirror as she could only see her blue eyes.  Opening the window to her room, she hopped on to the staircase before turning around to close the window behind her.  Mary then proceeded to climb the ladder that led to the top of her building.  Standing on top, she could smell the fresh air at night.  She then looked ahead and proceeded to run.  Mary would jump from building to building, using her flexibility that she had since she was a child.  At an early age she would learn gymnastics from her father while she practiced hiding seek games with her mother.  As she grew older Mary would continue to learn mainly from her father with her parents beginning to split off.  She would first learn to punch the bag from her father, then would learn other fighting styles such as Jiu-jitsu, boxing, and other fighting styles.  While growing up, the story’s she would hear from her parents inspired her to train harder despite being told it was for defense purposes.  

Mary stood on top of an apartment building, watching a gang of Jokerz in an alley.  There were five of them.  Each was wearing different clown outfits, and make up.  The gang were getting in conflict with another gang.  Before anything could occur, Mary would jump down the staircase, and slide on the sides making a landing on the ground.  The two factions were surprised, and confused at the same time, wondering who this person was.

“Stop what you are doing.  Before either of you starts something that will get the other party hurt, I recommend both of you go home” in the back of her head she almost cringes, thinking that speech could have gone better.  

Both party’s looked at her, and were ready to attack.  A gun from the Jokerz came out, but a batarang with a blue color flew in, causing that gun to go off.  It injured the member's hand.  Mary turned around to see who it was, but she couldn’t tell with the helmet on.  

“Mind if I join the party?”

 Mary was skeptical, as the man’s voice sounded earlier, but familiar.  She had no time to think, as someone from a street gang tried to throw a punch, but she dodged it, and grabbed her opponent's arm before tossing them back.  She then hopped on the other guy's shoulder, and kicked a member of the Jokerz.

Meanwhile the clown that was holding his injured hand pulled out a knife trying to cut the mysterious man with the helmet.  He grabbed that knife hand, and broke it before kicking him to the ground.  They then proceeded to fight off both of the gangs until both parties decided to run off.  

When it was over Mary was turned around only to see the man removing the helmet to reveal it was Dick Grayson.  Mary was almost shocked, but before she could say anything, Dick spoke first.

“I know it’s you Mary, come let’s chat on top of that building”

The two climbed up to the building with Mary removing her Mask.  She had questions, but Dick started first, “Before you ask how I knew it was you, those moves are the ones I taught you.  Second not a bad disguise, but I can still recognize my own daughter”

“How did you find me?” Mary asked not surprised Dick came all the way from Bludhaven.

“I didn’t, I was in the area, until I saw the two gangs meeting.  I decided to follow them, but you beat me to it” he paused before speaking again, “What are you thinking coming here”

Dick was calm, but Mary could tell he wasn’t happy, “I told you I wanted to help people, and you already disapproved in Bludhaven”

Dick sighed, as he knew how stubborn his daughter was, “Mary, I don’t want you to have this life.  It’s dangerous, and it’s not a good life to live” 

“Well I want to help people.  All these skills, all these stories you told me, I want to make a difference like you, and mom.  Aren’t you proud of what I did?”

“Mary, I am very proud of you.  I was happy when you saved that family, but one save will not stop there, I know for a fact”

“You are telling me you aren’t proud of what you did in those stories you used to tell me?”

“Of course I’m not, I don’t regret it either, I just don’t want you on that path.  Over the year it’s became to much, I lost friends, good people, I just don’t want that to happen to you, you are all I have”

“You had mom” Dick turned around, struck by hearing Barbara’s name.  Mary realized what she said, “Dad, I’m sorry I didn’t mean it like that”

Dick smiled, “I know.  I wish it worked out with me and Barbs, really I do, but it just didn’t work out.  Right now I just want to look out for you”

“Dad I’m twenty-three, I’m an adult, even so you can’t keep looking out for me forever”

“Doesn’t mean I don’t have to” Dick winked at his daughter.  The two smiled at each other sharing a laugh.  Before any more words could be exchanged, they saw fire trucks and police cars driving fast.  They looked carefully, seeing they were going west.  Dick had an idea where they were going.  

“Come on” he told her.

The two followed them on Dicks motorcycle, the road that had brought them to Arkham Asylum.  Mary had never been, but Dick had on several occasions.  He had never seen it like it was now.  The facility was on fire.  The firefighters were already trying to put it out, but the place was filled with crowds that were mixed with crowds.

Barbara was already walking until she stopped to see Dick, and Mary.  The two came up to her.

Mary gave her a tight embrace not sure what had happened.  Dick stood aside looking at the situation.  He already saw the new Batman, and Batwing leaving the crime scene.  His head turned to Barbara with questions floating in his head, “What happened?”

Barbara already was silent.  Dick knew by her face something happened.  His heart sank when Barbara pointed behind him without saying a word.  Bruce Wayne was being carried in an ambulance.

“Bruce!” Dick cried out.  

Mary had never seen him like that before, he was upset.  Barbara went over to pull him aside.  They let the medics do their job, and drive the ambulance away.  Dick had turned to Barbara, “What happened?!” he demanded. 

Barbara sighed, “I will explain later.  I have to take care of this then I’m going to the hospital.  You should come”

“Alright, Mary let’s go”

Mary tried to say something, but Dick walked off.  It was like she was seeing a different side of him, however Mary was smart, and knew what Bruce meant to him, so without a word she would follow him. 

The next morning, Dick had already been sitting down for a while.  He can’t remember if he slept or not.  He stood up when he saw Luke come in, the two shaking hands. 

“Good to see you Luke” Dick turned his head to see Terry was with him, he gave a small chuckle before speaking to him, “So this is the new Batman?” 

Terry was surprised, almost speechless, he was going to say something, but Dickput his hand up, “It’s alright, I know.  I knew since before I met you at the mansion.  You've been doing some good work in Neo-Gotham.  I also did some homework on you”

Terry tried to give him a smile, but then he saw Bruce laying down in his hospital bed, “Thanks, but that wasn’t enough to save him”

“I disagree, Bruce knew the risks.  You are not to blame.  Remember we knew him before you were born.  I can’t even remember how many times we told him to retire, and he didn’t listen”

The three chuckled.  Barbara came in with Mary.  The two had coffee in their hands. 

“Good, I see you guys are already aqua red with each other” 

Dick took the coffee from Barbara’s hand, “So Barb, tell us what happened.  I still don’t know the full story”

Barbara tried to find words to come up with, not wanting to spill anyone’s identities with her daughter next to her, “Well there is a serial killer.  He has been killing criminals, and old criminals.  Bruce had an idea to lay out a trap, but the killer was already steps ahead.  Blew up the asylum, killed a few inmates, and Bruce got caught up in it”

“God” Dick is all he could say, putting his hand on his face.  He then proceeded to ask Barbara another question, wanting to know who it was, “Who is this guy”

Barbara looked at Bruce, then at Luke, and Terry before her eyes reached Dicks, “he goes by Hush”

“Can’t be, he’s dead” 

Barbara had another sip before speaking, “I know, but we don’t know it’s the same person.  All I know is that he is going by that name, and he’s trouble”

Dick looked at Mary with a serious look, “Time for you to go home”

“What?  Why? Who’s this Hush?” Mary wanted to find out more information.

“He is Gotham's most notorious serial killer.  He is dangerous” Barbara told her.  Dick cut her off to continue, “That’s why I’m staying.  It’s to dangerous, you need to go home Mary”

“No, I’m not a child dad” 

“Then act like it!” Dick suddenly snapped.

Everyone froze, looking at Dick, then at Mary, who just glared at him.  Another word wasn’t said, she left the room, as Dick tried to call her name.

Barbara looked at her ex husband, raising an eyebrow.  Dick sighed, “I know it’s too much, but this is serious.  Who ever this imposter is he is more dangerous than the original”

“I agree, which is why we need to stop him, all hands on deck” Luke suggested.  Dick agreed, offering to come back.  Before they could continue talking, there was a knock on the door.  It was the nurse that was taking care of Bruce, “Sorry to bother you guys, but which one of you is Terrance McGuinnes”

Terry stepped forward, “I am”

“Mr. McGuiness, we been looking at Mr. Wayne’s test results, there wasn’t any damage from the rubble, but did you know he has been having trouble lately?””

“What kind of trouble?” he raised an eyebrow looking at his elders before looking back at the nurse.

The nurse continued, “According to these results it’s his kidneys.  Did you know anything about it?” 

Luke stepped forward, “Hello I’m Luke Fox.  I have been Mr. Wayne’s aide for years.  I noticed he had been taking pills, but I thought they were regular medicine that was prescribed by the doctor.  Neither Terry or I knew there was something serious”

The nurse gave the two a sympathetic look, which made the party curious, “I’m sorry, but according to this file, Mr. Wayne’s kidneys are failing”everyone was shocked to hear this.  The room stayed silent.

“Is there anything that we can do?” Barbara asked.

“That’s why I’m here.  We have been looking into records of those closest to Mr. Wayne, and according to this Mr. McGinniss is a match, we just got to clone his kidney to transfer it.  It’s painless, and won’t take long.  You will be out by the end of the day.

“I will do it” Terry was already on board with it, but he could tell there was more to be said.

“Did you know you were a perfect match”

“What?” Terry said, confused, asking the nurse.

“Your kidneys are a perfect match to Mr. Wayne’s.  Do you know how rare that is?”

“Very” Terry responded already suspicious.  Luke was the only one who didn’t have a surprised look on his face while Barbara, and Dick were looking at each other.

“Did you know?” the nurse asked, but Terry shook his head.

“I didn’t”

“Well like I said we need to clone it or else Mr. Wayne is going to die”

Everyone looked at Terry.  Terry was already suspicious, but he didn’t want Bruce to die, “I’m ready”

“Alright, come with me” Terry would be the only one following her, while the rest stayed back to discuss their next move.

The bat team went to the cave doing research on what they could on the Hush imposter.  Barbara had used her previous skills as Oracle to see what she could learn while Luke, and Dick were going through old files, and seeing what they could find.  While looking through files on Hush, Barbara saw that Bruce was already investigating it, but she saw something else, she clicked to see there was a file that drew suspension.  She clicked on it before turning to the guys at the table, “Found something.  It’s a file on Cadmus.  What do you think of Luke?”

“Honestly, I don’t know, Bruce might have been looking into it.  Could connected to this”

“I can go check it out” Dick offered to go.

Barbara shook her head, “It’s dangerous, we don’t know what we are dealing with, you should wait for Terry, then the two of you, and Luke will go” 

“I’m still working on my suit, but I should be good later”

“No worries I can go on my own” Dick stood up, making his way towards the stairs, but Barbara stopped him, “Dick”

“Yes”

“Just be careful.  You do have a daughter you need to make amends with”

Dick put his head down before lifting it back up, “She doesn’t understand the dangers.  This life she’s trying to leave it’s going to put her and the people she cares about in danger”

“I know how you feel, but she isn’t a girl anymore, we can’t keep protecting her, she needs to make her own choices”

Dick looked down before he saw Barbara, the two were closer in space.  He laid a hand on her shoulder, “I will be careful I promise” he turned his head towards Luke,” Send me an address”

Luke hopped on the computer, “Sending it now”

“Great, I will call when I find something” he then proceeded to leave the cave.

Dick right away went for the old Cadmus building, using a pin to pick the lock.  He was already in his black leather jacket above his long sleeve, and gloves, so he wouldn’t leave prints. Once he broke the lock, he opened the doors, turning on a flash light.

He entered a room, pointing the flash light there.  The room was a mess, and everything he saw was dusty.  Dick would try to hop on a computer, but the power through the facility had everything shut off.  He made his way through a filing cabinet.  Dick started to look through, he went through the section of H, but there was nothing on hush, so he made his way back, seeing something that piqued his interest.  He lifted the file, Project Batman Beyond  

Before Dick could read it, he felt something hit his head, dropping the file.

“You shouldn’t have come here” Hush said, standing over his body.

Chapter Text

Terry had waited the day in the lab waiting for the doctor to come in.  He had hoped the results were good, but something else flew through his mind.  It's been there since he left Bruce’s side.  His kidneys were a perfect match to Bruce’s, and he wanted to know why, but his train of thought was interrupted by the doctor who helped with the cloning.  

“How are you feeling Mr. McGinnis?” He stood up shaking the doctor's hand.

“I’m feeling fine.  It was completely painless.  Also you can call me Terry”

The Doctor continues to speak, “Well Terry it seems thanks to your help, Bruce will be making a full recovery.  He should be out within a few days, we just want to make sure everything goes well”

Terry was happy, but he had trouble expressing himself.  It’s like it was a sign something wasn’t right.  He looked up at the doctor, and smiled, “That’s a relief, thank you”

“Perfect match”

“What?” Terry asked, as he was ready to leave.

“Your kidney was a perfect match.  If it wasn’t for that Mr. Wayne would be dead.  The nurse did tell you right?”

“Yeah..” Terry could only say a few words before he left.

He stepped outside realizing it was already the evening.  While walking, he took out a photo of him, and his parents.  He looked at their features.  His parents had different features.  He has been told by Bruce during training sessions that the two were similar, but back then Terry thought it was a compliment.  Now realizes there’s something deeper, but doesn’t know what it is.

While Terry had planned to walk home, he saw Dana was outside waiting.  This made him take aback.

“Dana!” Terry shouted, surprised.  He then looked up in frustration as they were supposed to meet up.

“Terry, I stopped by the mansion.  Luke told me what happened, I’m sorry to hear about Mr. Wayne” 

“Yeah me too”

“I have been trying to get in touch with you, I haven’t seen you in class.  You even blowed off our plans today” 

Terrys mind was somewhere else, “I’m sorry what?”

Dana folded her arms, “You know I tried to be patient.  You're out all night, and sometimes I see you with cuts or bruises.  I didn’t ask because it wasn’t my business, but I must know what is going on?”

“It’s nothing, I have to go”

“You know I know it was hard losing your parents, but it’s not an excuse anymore.  Tell me what’s going on so I can help you” before Dana could put a hand on Terrys shoulder, he snapped, “You don’t know a damn thing” 

Dana was shocked, and almost had tears in her eyes.  She ran off.  Terry tried to talk to her, but it was too late.  Terry cursed himself.

He continued walking, not wanting to return yet, he sat at a bar, and had a glass of water.  He had a small plate of food, as it was close to dinner time.  He turned his head to see Melanie playing pool with some people.  He came to say hi, but didn’t have to when Melanie spotted him, “Hey newbie ready to get destroyed at pool now” she teased him, but she knew something was up with the way his face moved, “I know you have a girlfriend, I noticed” 

“Actually we had an argument” he stated.

“Oh” all she could say before the two sat at the bar to talk.  Melanie offered to buy him a drink, but Terry wasn’t interested, so they just talked for a bit.

“So an argument?” she questioned. 

Terry shrugged his shoulders, “Yeah not the first time, but I was a jerk.  She wanted to help, and I pushed her away”

“Why though?” 

Terry shrugged his shoulders again, “Not sure, there's a lot I want to say, but can’t.  Its complicated, and personal”

Melanie had another sip of her drink before putting it down, “I get it, but she cares about you.  My advice if you don’t want to tell her anything, just be honest how you feel” she stood up tugging at Terrys jacket, “Come on lets play pool, I will teach you this time”

 shared laughs before playing a few rounds of Pool.  After an hour they walked out of the bar, the two were actually getting along.  Terry started to feel better.

“Are you sure you don’t want a ride?” she offered.

Terry declined after seeing Mary was walking by herself, he turned her head to Melanie to answer her question, “I’m good, thanks for tonight, Maybe I will see you around.  Perhaps hang out with me, and Dana if things get better” 

Melanie gave a small smile before taking Terry’s phone, and putting something in, “My number if you ever need anything.  Goodnight McGuiness” she said before taking off to see Mary who was still walking.

Mary looked to Terry, “Oh hey Terry, I didn’t see you, let me guess my dad sent you?”

Terry shook his head, “No actually was out with a friend, and saw you.  Are you okay?”

“I was just walking about my business.  Couldn’t stand my dad” she stated

“Yeah I am sorry about that” Terry told her.

Mary shrugged her shoulders, “Me to, he just doesn’t get it, I can take care of myself”

“I know he just wants to look after you to make sure your safe”

“I know, but I’m not a little girl anymore. I can take care of myself.  Anyways I was in the neighborhood on my way back until I saw you two argue”

“Yeah it’s nothing, my girlfriend and I aren’t really getting along right now”

“Doesn’t have anything to do with you being Batman doesn’t it?” Mary asked, causing Terry to make a surprised look.

“I don’t know what you mean” he tried to deny it.

Mary folded her arms, “I know.  It’s obvious.  I know my father was Nightwing,  my mother was Batgirl, and Bruce Wayne was Batman.  You are the new guy, so you must be the new Batman, that’s why you two were fighting because she doesn’t know”

Terry laughed about it, as he gave up, “You are right.  I just have a lot on my mind I guess.  I’m going back to the mansion.  Do you want to come?”

They went in Mary’s car, as they drove off to the mansion.

“So, I must ask what’s the deal with you, and your mom?” Terry asked her after a long silence. 

“What do you mean?” 

“Well when I saw you at the Commissioner's office, there seemed to be tension.  This morning at the hospital there seemed to be tension.  What’s up with that if you don’t mind me asking?” 

“Well after my parents divorced it was just me, and my dad.  My mom would visit sometimes, but over the years it became less frequent.  Overtime she just stopped visiting, we’d call, and see each other once a year, but wasn’t the same” 

Terry looked out the window of the car,”I’m sorry, I didn’t really have a good relationship with my dad either.  Still if I could have one more day to tell him, and my mom how much they mean to me I would.  Not that it’s my business, but you should talk to them”

Mary didn’t say a word.  The two kept driving until they reached the road that took them to Wayne Manor.

The two got out of the car and went inside.  Terry called out, but no one was home.  He found it suspicious.  The two turned, as Terry opened the clock that led him to the cave.  Luke, and Barbara were there.  Mary heard her mom try to call Dicks phone.  She couldn’t tell what she was saying when walking down, but she could hear her say her fathers name”

“Did something happen to dad?” 

Luke, and Barbara didn’t even hear them come in.  Barbara gave Terry a look of annoyance, and he could tell it was about Mary.

Terry spoke up for her, “She has the right to be here Commissioner, now what about Dick?  Did something happen?”

Barbara dropped her look, and signed, she looked at Luke, who nodded his head, “We found a lead regarding this new copy cat.  Dick decided to go, but we haven’t heard from him in hours”

“You let dad go alone?!” Mary’s face snapped to a look of anger.

“We tried to get him to stay, and wait, but I’m sure you know how stubborn” before Luke could continue, Mary cut him off, “Shut up Fox, that’s my father” 

“Mary we will get him back” Barbara tried to assure her, but she could tell her daughter was pist. 

Mary had so much to say, she slapped her mothers hand away in frustration.  She gave her a look of displeasure, but knew she had to do something, “ Where is he?  I have to find him”

“Mary we have this under control”

“No you don’t!”

Terry breaking up the fight offered to go, “I will go with her”

Barbara, and Luke stared at him again.

“She already knows, she figured it out” Terry tried to defend himself.

Barbara looked at her daughter with a grin, “Looks like being a detective runs in the family.  Alright I’m trusting you both”

Terry turned to Luke, “Are you coming?”

Luke shook his head, “Suit is still damaged from the rubble in Arkham.  Saved me from being crushed, but some stuff I have to work on”

Mary stared at him, realizing who he was.  Barbara noticed, “Mary what’s wrong?”

Mary snapped her head, looking at everyone else, “Nothing, let’s just save my dad” everyone could tell she was still annoyed at Barbara. 

Terry went to change into his suit.  Mary borrowed a change of clothes consisting of a black suit with a yellow belt.  The two went into the batmobile before it flew off.

The pair arrived at the coordinates that Luke sent to them.  Terry, as Batman stepped out with Mary, who already saw the door was open.  They went in, as Terry turned on the flashlight on his belt.  They looked everywhere, starting from each room, but there was no sign of Dick.  

“Barbara, Luke, there is no sign of him” Terry spoke through comms.

Luke was on the computer trying to track his phone, “His phone isn’t on either”

Terry, and Mary kept looking until they found a file cabinet that was opened, “We found something” the two went to check it out.

Terry, and Mary went to check out the file cabinet.  He had an idea what Dick was looking for.  They knew it wasn’t much, but least knew that he was there.

“Looks to be Dick was here, but we don’t know where the trail goes” Terry continued to talk through comms.  

Mary took a step back to look around again.  When she did, she found her foot was on something.  She went to pick it up, “Found something” she handed the file to Terry.  He looked at it closely, his eyes widen at the label

Project Batman Beyond

“What is it Terry?” Luke asked him through the cave.  

Terrys eyes snapped back, he looked at Mary, then Luke, “It’s not a lead, but it’s a file regarding something called Batman Beyond”

Barbara looked at Luke, who didn’t seem nervous.  She tried to press him about it, but they got interrupted.

Mary turned to see someone standing by the door.  She called the person out, but they ran.  Terry saw this, and threw rope that caught their feet, causing them to fall down.  Terry’s flashlight showed it was a woman with dark red hair, she wore a doctor's coat, and had glasses.  Her hands waved in the air,”Stop, please don’t hurt me!” She panicked. 

Terry instantly took a batarang to cut the rope, regonzing her.  He then changed to his translator on his suit, turning to his Batman persona, “I saw you a few days ago.  Talk, who are you” 

“My name is Nora” 

Mary looked at her name attached to her coat, “Elliot?” she looked at Terry, who looked at Nora, “Are you related to a man of Thomas Elliot” he asked her.  

Nora adjusted her glasses, Terry could tell by the scans her heart was racing.  He decided to help her up, “Do you know Thomas Elliot?” 

“Do I know him?  He is my grandfather” 

The room stayed silent.  Barbara, and Luke who were listening, stared at each other.  Terry stayed silent, as Mary had no idea who they were talking about.

“Why were you with him the other night?” Batman asked her.

“I've been trying for a while now to find him, but before I could do anything, he attacked me” Nora unrolled her sleeves, showing the two the scars across her arm.

“What were you going to do if he didn’t catch you?” Batman asked, continuing to get information out.

“I’m not sure, but I couldn’t let him get away.  I know what you are going to say, but it is the truth.  I know my grandfather was an evil man, but I’m not him” she tried to assure him.

Terry didn’t know what to say, he was not even born during that time, but before he could continue his integration Mary cutted in.

“We are looking for my dad.  He said he was coming here, but hasn’t returned.  Do you have an idea where he is?” Mary asked her.

The two looked at her before Nora spoke, “I have an idea where he” she pointed to the ground.  Batman tapped into his detective mode connected to his mask.  They were footprints, it was still wet.  Terry cursed himself, he knew Bruce would have figured it out sooner.  He looked at the folder before putting it down on a desk, so he could follow the trial.

Mary, and Nora followed behind Batman.  The trail was leading them out of the building.  They went out to see the trail had stopped.  They looked down to see a passage through the sewers.  Batman lifted the lid up before letting Mary go first, then Nora, not trusting her, so he climbed down last.  The trail would then pick up.  Batman would lead the way since he had detective mode, which allowed him to follow the tracks.

The walk was silent, no one said a word.  Scanners in the batsuit detected that Nora’s heart rate wasn’t normal.  There was also sweat coming down her face.  She also kept looking back, which caused Batman to feel more suspicious.  He decided since they were walking for a while, it was time to break the silence, “So Nora, you worked for Cadmus?”

“How did you know?” she asked.

Batman continued, “It’s on your jacket”

“Yeah, I did for a time, then I decided to do other stuff.  When I heard there was a man going by the name Hush, I thought I would do something.”

“Is that why you have a gun on you?” 

Nora froze, she was about to pull her weapon, but Batman grabbed her wrist before she could move it, taking the gun, and throwing it in the river.

“You have to tell us what’s going on” Terry found himself talking in a darker voice before letting go of Nora.

Nora looked at the two, and conceded, “Alright, you are right, it is true I worked for Cadmus for a time.  It was for a secret project, I had no idea the clone would be unstable”

“Clone?  Does it have anything to do with project Batman Beyond?” Batman asked.  Before she could answer there was a sound in the background.  It sounded like chains hitting the ground.  The three cut a corner, and they were surprised when they saw who it was.

Dick Grayson was chained to a poll, beat, and a gush of blood running down his head.

Batman, who had turned off detective mode, looked at Mary who had a look of horror, and pain on her face, “Dad!” without thinking she ran up to him, giving him a tight embrace. 

“Mary?  What are you doing here?” Dick asks her.  He is clearly happy to see her, but not happy she came here.

“I’m here with Batman, he led me to you, we are going to get you out” 

Dick looked up, “Batman?” 

Terry, playing into his acting skills again, talks through his translator, “Are you alright Mr. Grayson?” using his gadget to free him from the chains.

Dick stood up with Mary's help, “I’m alright.  I got hit in the head, but I’m not sure who.  I did however find something Interesting.  It was a file on you” he told Batman.  

Under the mask Terry raised his eyebrows, causing him to look at Nora, then back at Dick, “Funny because she worked for Cadmus” 

Before they could integrate her, there was a figure in the shadow that Nora was standing in front of.  She slowly turned her head to see it was a man in bandages hovering over her, but before she could run to anyone, a knife went through her throat, causing blood to pour down the neck.

On instinct Batman used the rockets in his boots to lunge forward, tackling Hush to the ground.  Dick, and Mary were with Nora, trying to help her.  Dick removed his blue jacket pressing it on the wound.  He then turned his head to Mary who didn’t move, “Mary, keep your hands here, I am going to help Batman” Mary still didn’t move or say a word.  This caused Dick to raise his voice in a way so she could hear, “Mary!” she quickly turned her head to look at her father, who spoke to her in an understanding, “Listen, I know this is a lot, but I need you.  I’m going to help Batman take this guy down, and end this.  Can you keep your hands here?”

Mary took over, putting her hands in replace of her fathers.  She then looked at him, “It’s alright, go” 

Dick dashed off to aid Batman, who was in clashing fists with the new Hush.  He had landed strong hits on the serial killer, but Hush grabbed his fist, overpowering him.  Batman stood on the ground in shock.  He had never faced anyone who was stronger than him.  Before he got up, Hush kicked him on the stomach.  Before he could use his knife to stab the dark knight, Dick kicked it out of his hand.

“Need a hand?” Dick lifts Batman up with his hand.  They turned their attention to Hush, who would fight them.

Hush was able to keep up with the two.  He was able to block their punches, and land hits in.  Dick was giving him a better fight.  Even at an old age, the acrobatic was doing well.  He was causing Hush to go on the defensive.  He would hit Grayson, who would stay on his feet.   Hush then turned towards Batman, who he knocked to the ground, but got thrown back by Dick when he stood.  Batman then stood up, using his jets to kick his enemy to the wall.  They then both landed a punch into him, bringing him to the ground.  

Dick looks down on him, as he stands back up, “It’s over Hush”

Hush glared took out a gun, among it at Mary who was still trying to help Nora.  Batman saw this, running in front of her, as he protected Mary from the bullet.  Dick who was enraged, pinning Hush to the wall after knocking the gun out of his hand.  A fist then wrapped around his throat. 

“You aren’t going to do it are you?” Hush asked Dick who still had his hand around his enemy’s throat.  Dick remained silent, losing his grip.  Hush then with a grin kicked Dick back.  He then picked up his gun.  Instead of aiming it at him, he went for the pipe.  He shot into it, causing air to blow into Grayson's face. Hush then used this as an opportunity to dive in the water.  

Batman, and Dick ran after him to try and stop him from escaping.  Hush climbed up, running near the edge of the sewer.  He gave the two a grin before jumping off the edge.  He disappeared in the water, nowhere to be seen. 

The two looked at each other without saying a word. They weren’t sure if Hush was alive or dead.  They headed back to where Mary was, who was still with Nora.  She had not taken her hands off the jacket that was used in an attempt to stop the bleeding.  Batman, and Dick saw she was trying to save her.  Batman checked her vital signs, but it was confirmed she was deceased.  He looked at Dick, who walked to Mary, “It’s over Mary.  She’s dead” 

Mary had let go, she knew for moments that Nora was dead since she stopped struggling, but it didn’t make her feel any better.  She was just shocked, never being in a situation that was like this. She looked at the body before looking at her father, “Alright let’s go”

The three walked back to the surface.  It was a silent walk, they didn’t even know if it was over.  Terry waited till he was the last one before climbing back up, as he looked back a final time before shutting the lid, and calling for the batmobile.

Underwater bubbles were erupting.  Hush brought himself up, trying to gasp for air.  He found himself taking large breaths.  He spotted a homeless man searching for scraps.  He had asked if he was okay.  Instead of responding, Hush leaped towards the ground, throwing himself at the homeless man who screamed for help.  Hush had taken the man’s head, and slammed him against the ground until blood came out.  He then let the body go, kicking the corpse until he roared.  He then thought of Batman. This caused him to grit his teeth, as he looked into the sky, “Damn you Batman always getting in my way.  Stopping me from doing the right thing.  I will destroy you along with this city!”

Chapter Text

The batmobile was being piloted back to the cave.  It was a silent trip with no one saying a word.  Luke, and Barbara were waiting by where the vehicle was being parked.  Open was Mary who had helped Dick climb down.  Barbara had also helped him down, looking at the dry blood on his head.  Dick assured her he is fine, and he doesn’t need medical help.  Terry was the next one coming down, removing his mask.

“What happened?” Luke asked.

Terry brought everyone up to speed on what had happened from getting to Cadmus to rescuing Dick.

“So he’s dead? Luke asked the two.

Dick shrugged his shoulders, “I don’t know.  We didn’t see a body come out of the water”

“We also heard from Doctor Elliot that this new Hush is a clone” Terry remarked.

“Did she say who?” Luke asked. 

Terry shook his head, “It must be Bruce” everyone looked at him in a funny way, “What?  I mean who else” 

Barbara turned her head to Luke, “What do you think Luke”

Luke shrugged his shoulders, “Not sure, Cadmus did many experiments.  It could be possible, but I don’t know who.  I did figure he got those bombs that blew up the Asylum” he took everyone to the computer, showing them something that drives suspicion towards the group.

“What’s that?” Terry asked, looking at it closely. 

“Nanobots.  They were used in the asylum that’s how the new Hush was able to pull it off without anyone knowing” Luke made the screen bigger so everyone could see.  

“How did it get through without my knowledge?” Barbara clearly not happy she didn’t see it coming”

“Better yet how do we make sure this doesn’t happen again?” Terry cutted in.

“I know one person he could have gotten it from” Barbara looked at Luke, then Terry who shook his head, “Impossible, Mad Stan is locked up” he looked at Barbara.

“Perhaps, he had been quiet for months now.  Maybe it’s time I pay a visit to Blackgate” Luke suggested.

“I will come with you” Terry said, ready to go back out.  Barbara shook her head in approval.

He followed the Commissioner after she left.  Once the two left its was just Dick, and Luke’s. Luke decided to go back to what he was doing.

Dick decided to go to check on Mary who barely said a word.  He could tell right away that she was still in shock at the death of Nora Elliot.  He noticed she was by the edge of the cliff they were standing on.  She looked down into the abyss before turning to her father, “Don’t worry, I’m not going to jump”

Dick shared a smile, “You know, I used to wonder while I was Robin, what’s down there.  I asked Bruce, he didn’t even have an answer”

Mary gave a weak smile, “Listen dad I’m sorry I couldn’t save her back there”

Dick out out a hand, “Don't worry about it.  It’s the life of a hero”

Mary looked down without speaking, “You know I was thinking, perhaps you were right.  Maybe this life isn’t for me”

“No” he said.  Mary looked confused as he continued to speak, “I said that because I didn’t want you to go through the life we did.  I raised you in Bludhaven because I wanted you to live a life different from me and your mother.  I’m your father Mary, I will always worry.  Without saying, I seen how you handle yourself on the streets, which is why I think there could be more heroes out there, but first, I need to train you”

“You already taught me” Mary said.

Dick shook his head while smiling, “I haven’t taught you everything.  Come on, I will show you the training grounds here” 

Batman flew his batmobile in the sky, looking at the small island that was in his distance.  There was a bridge connected.  He had never been there before.  The facility was more different then the asylum.  Security looked more tight, however when he had arrived at Blackgate there were the police staring at him.  They tried to stop him, but Barbara stopped them, “He is with me” she let Batman in, then introduces him to the chief of security, “Batman this is Frank Boles, our head of security” 

The two shook hands.

“Pleasure to meet you Batman” the taller, builder man said, stretching his hand.

Barbara spoke, “Frank’s father use to work for Arkham.  Now he works here, making sure no one escapes”

“Guess protecting this city from the scum runs in the family” Frank chuckled. 

“We are here to speak to Mad Stan”  Commissioner Gordon told him.

Frank nodded, as the three walked on.

Terry had never been inside of Blackgate, he had imagined it to be like the asylum.  He saw the many inmates that were in their cells, they all looked at him.  They wanted him since Batman had put most of these inmates there. He also recognized them.  Some were from the organization COBRA, the Spicers, and other  minor gangs like the Jokerz.  Batman saw other criminals like Shriek, or the Royal Flush Gang that were in their cells.  Ten was the only one missing.  Terry hadn’t even thought about her.  He remembered how scared and desperate she was to get out of the city.  They glared at him, inproticular the King.  Each of them were locked up and started to taunt him, but Batman didn’t listen he just kept moving forward, making his way towards his destination.

“We are here to see Mad Stan” Commissioner Gordon said, ordering the guards that were guarding the cell.  The two entered with Frank waiting outside.

“Alright Mad Stan we need to talk” Gordon folding her arms.

Stan had not answered, he stayed in the shadows, sitting on his bed.  Batman stepped forward, lifting him by the shirt, “You heard the Commissioner, we need to talk” 

Batman threw him on the ground after widening his eyes.  He saw it was another inmate with dark hair.  He smiled, causing Batman to lift him by the shirt again, “Where is Mad Stan!” Batman demanded.  The imposter smiled like he was crazy, “Not here” he began to laugh, as Batman punched him in the jaw, knocking him out. Barbara went out of the cell, having known Stan had escaped, “He isn’t here”

This caused Boles to sound the alert at the facility.  Alarms were sirens everywhere.

The whole building went on lockdown with the alarms getting louder.  They made sure to check every inch, and outside of the building.  So far there was no sign of Mad Stan.  Batman also searched every inch of the building, but not a sign.  He gave up then met up with the Commissioner who was waiting for results.

“Searched the whole area, couldn’t find him” Batman told her.

“Spoke to the guards.  The imposter said a couple of months”

“How did he get away with it?” Batman asked, but Gordon, not sure, well looked at Frank who had shrugged his shoulders.  She clearly blamed him for letting Stan get away.

“We can assume he is working with the imposter.  He must be skilled.  I’ll have to look at the footage” Barbara said.

“Is there anything else I can do?” Batman offered. 

Barbara shook her head, placing a hand on his shoulder, “You did well kid, get some rest”

Terry looked down remembering he had class, and his breakup with Dana.  He almost wanted to stay, but knew there was nothing else he could do.  Instead he looked back up, nodding his head before leaving.  Terry hopped into his vehicle, levitating in the air before he took off.

Hush was still soaking wet when he opened the door of the home that had belonged to Thomas Elliot.  The house was dusty and old like it hadn’t been used for years.  He went to the basement , and opened the door to see Mad Stan tied to a chair beating, and thinner like hadn’t eaten.  His mouth was gagged.  Hush stared into his eyes before removing the gag.  

“What the heck man, I did everything you asked, gave you my stash of explosives, and you gag me, and tied me up!  I thought when you recruited me that we would bring this city to its place!”

Hush had taken out a knife, causing Stan to stop talking.  Before he could say anymore the blade went through his throat, causing Mad Stan to choke on his words.  Hush looked at him. As he bled, “I lied” 

Hush turned around, picking up a phone on the counter, I guess desperate times”

Chapter Text

The Jokerz gang were in an alley with it being dark out.  The three of them were intoxicated either by drinking or the smoke they had in their hands.  A caucasian man in a trench coat had been walking through even though it was a dead end.  The smaller Jokerz had approached him for an offer to buy something from there.  The man continued to walk by, but the gang wouldn’t leave him alone.  The other two approached him.  The taller one wearing a purple jacket asked where he was going, but no answer.  The clown this time pulled out a knife asking again.  The man instead took the knife hand and jammed it into the clown's chest.  The other two tried to attack, but were easily handled by the man.  The second clown wearing a sleeveless jacket had his neck snapped before he turned his attention to the last of the tree.  The clown was scared, thinking he was going to die, but the man walked away without a word, entering the sewers.  He stopped when he saw tracks of footprints.  He bent down to sniff it.  Quickly he heard footsteps, standing back up.

“That was quicker than expected,” Hush said as he stepped out of the shadows.

“You must be the man who called,” the man said, glaring at him. 

“You are called the Stalker?” Hush asked.  

“I am, you called me here for a reason?” Stalker already knows the answer without shaking hands.

“Indeed, I have a goal, but I can’t do it without an obstacle in the way.  I need you to kill the Batman”

Hearing this piqued Stalkers interest.  He turned his head, his brown eyes meeting the eyes of Hush who had his bandages covering his face making it hard to see the eyes.

“Eliminate him in any means necessary.  How you do it, I don’t care, I just need to know if you are in” 

A grin appeared on Stalkers face, “How can I resist a hunt?  Tell me more”

Class had ended for the day at  Gotham University.  Terry had been alone the whole day.  His mind calmer than before, two days, and no crime, which included no Hush activities.  This had been good for him in terms of catching up on the work he had missed while going out as Batman.  Bruce was also coming home after the doctors wanted to keep him for observation according to Sick, and Luke who visits him daily.  Terry had something he wanted to ask him, but didn’t remember what it was.  Before he could think he knocked into someone, causing their textbooks to fall.

“I’m so sorry” Terry said, but to his surprise the person he is helping is no other than Dana.  She quickly picked up her books and tried to get away, but Terry followed her, “Wait Dana”

“Not now Terry” she said, trying to walk as fast as she could, not able to look her ex in the eyes.  He kept following her, “Look, I just want to talk.  I’m sorry about the other day”

Before any words could be exchanged they ran into someone who caught Dana’s attention.  He was inches taller than Terry, and had more muscle on him.  His hair was blond, and eyes were green.

“Babe are you alright?” 

Terrys eyes widened after hearing those words.  Dana looked at him, and told him she was fine before kissing him on the lips much to Terrys surprise.  She then turned to him awkwardly before speaking, “Terry this is my boyfriend Rick.  Rick this is Terry”

Rick gave Terry a long glare before stretching his arm out, “So you are the Terry I heard about”

Terry didn’t shake hands, he was just surprised.  He looked at Dana, and explained to him, “Rick is a freshman like us.  He saw me upset the other day, so he took me out.. and we got together” She didn’t even want to look him in the eyes, but Terry could tell she was still hurt.  He looked at her boyfriend who stared at him.  Dana grabbed Rick by the arm, and took him away.  Terry didn’t want any more trouble so he walked home.

Terry's hands were in his jacket.  Not having a ride home, he decided to walk there without thinking of calling for a ride.  All his mind could think about was Dana.  He had been in love with her for as long as he could remember, and she moved on.  He felt bad, but he couldn’t be too upset, but knew deep down it was for the best.  Bruce had warned him to be careful many times, as if anyone knew his secret she would be at risk.  He could have told her everything, but he chose not to because it was the right thing.  It gave him chills on what could happen if the wrong person discovered his identity.  As much as it hurt, Terry felt a relief that she was with someone safer.  He took out his phone remembering Melanie gave him her number, so he called, “Hey Melanie?  Its Terry from before, why don’t we meet up?” 

She agreed to meet him, so Terry continued walking.

Suddenly there was a sound, causing Terry to look back, but no one was there.  It was like he was being followed, however Terry turned his attention to the Gotham Diner after hearing stomach growling.  He entered, taking a seat.  He took a sip of his water that was poured into his cup.  He took a sip before looking forward.  Melanie walked in sitting down.  

“Surprised you called, thought you would be with your girlfriend” she teased, but Terry didn’t respond well, just remind silent for a minute before speaking.

“Actually we broke up” he said.

“Oh I’m sorry” Melanie responded immediately feeling bad about what she just said.

“ Its fine, I don’t want to talk about it, I just want a friend right now” he said.  Melanie was happy with that.  Before anything happened, a man their age.  He tried flirting with Melanie, but wouldn't bungee.  He could tell the guy was drunk.  He tried putting his hand on her arm, but before Terry was going to do something, she twisted his arm, causing him to yell in pain.  His friends stood up after they heard the cry.  Terry without hesitation stood up to help her, kicking the bully to the ground.

She looked at him with a smirk, “Hey”

“Hi” Terry replied before they faced off against the attackers.

Terry ducked the punch the guy threw before slamming his fist in the jar.  He then tackled the other guy, putting him in a body lock.  His friend grabbed Terrys brown jacket, but Terry just threw a punch at his face.  The woman he was helping was able to defend herself.  She blocked a hit that would have knocked her out before throwing him on his back.  Someone grabbed her legs but she kicked him in the face.  The woman would then grab the wrist with two hands and throw him down, twisting his arm.  Terry saw this and was impressed, but he got tackled down, causing him to fall.  He would then kick his attacker off him.  The woman saw him getting back up and held a fist close to his face.  The group would then run away in fear.  

The two looked at each other with a smile, “We made a good team” Melanie said.

“Yes indeed.  Now what?” he asked

They didn’t realize everyone at the diner was staring at them.  Terry looked at Melanie who put money down on the table before motioning Terry to follow her.  The two picked up a pizza a few blocks from where they were before going to the pier.  The two sat down with the pizza box open.

The two were silently eating.  Terry looked at her who in return gave him a look, “You want to ask me something do you?” Melanie said in a relaxing, but happy tone”

“How did you learn to fight like that?” Terry bluntly asks her.

“My father insisted I learn.  Always tried my best, but didn’t seem to please him no matter how hard I’d work”

Terry didn’t respond, he just shook his head before taking another bite.

“What about you?  Where did you learn to fight?” Melanie asked him.

“I was in juvie for less than a year.  Met people, and they taught me” 

“If you don’t mind me asking what did you go to juvie for?” 

This caused Terry to pause as he almost choked.  Melanie was about to apologize, but she was cut off, “Just did some stuff I wasn’t proud of.  I was a bad kid then, but it’s in the past”

“I get it, I know what it’s like to make a mistake” Melanie gave a sympathetic look, putting down her pizza.

Terry, seeing how she was, tried to change the subject, “Never mind that, do you have family here?” 

Melanie shook her head,  “Just me, both of my parents are away with my brother, and uncle.  They always put their work above their own family” she said, feeling more emotional as she spoke.  She had her blue eyes meet Terrys, “Do you have family here?”

Terry shook his head, “No my parents were murdered over a year ago”

“I’m so sorry Terry” Melanie tried to put her hand on his, but he looked away.

“It’s alright, it’s just there’s  just so many things I had to say.  Things I regretted.  It just hurts they died knowing I yelled at them” 

“I know what you mean.  My parents aren’t dead, but they were never home with me and my brother growing up.  My uncle raised us for the most part.  When we were older my parents would take us on work trips, but we would always argue.  We still do” 

Terry looked into her eyes, but now it was Melanie who turned her head away, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to make it personal” she said about to leave, but Terry grabbed her hand, “No I’m the one who made it personal.  I’m sorry about how things are with your family, but i'm here now”  

Suddenly Terry found the lips of Melanie touching him.  He quickly pulled away without realizing it.  

“I’m sorry for forgetting its to soon, you just broke up with your girlfriend” Melanie said looking away.

Terry thought to himself remembering Dana, “it’s fine ut actually felt good”

Melanie looked up, before could say anything else Terry pressed his lips onto hers remembering that Dana is no longer in his life.  They two came closer, bringing themselves to the ground as they continued to kiss.

In his hotel room, the Stalker had candles surrounding him.  He had been doing research on the new Batman.  He had kept profiles on who he suspected to be him.  There were a few people that met his height, but that didn’t do him any good.  This left the Stalker dead in his tracks.  

A knock on the door was made before the housekeeper opened the door, bringing in fresh towels.  

The woman stopped where she was walking before she looked at the Stalker.  Stalker stood up still dressed in his robe before slowly walking to her, giving her a look.  The housekeeper slowly put the towels on the ground before running out of the room. 

“You sure scared her” Hushes voice came out of the shadows.

“I have been doing my research.  Figuring out every possible person that could be Batman.  I was able to narrow it down to height, but that leaves me at a dead end” 

Hush took a look at the files near.  There was none, but one that could peak his interest, “Who is this one?” 

Stalker looked at the file, “It says his name is Terrance McGinnis.  Why?”

“No reason, he just looks familiar.  Says he has a record”

“He is just a child.  You don’t think he is a match to the new Batman?” 

Hush looked at it, and tossed it in the fire of the candle so it burned.  He then looked at Stalker, “There is only one way to find out.  I am going to be busy tonight, but here is an address for you to lure him out.  I want him dead or alive, it does not matter just kill him, and meet me at this location” 

Stalker looked at it then at Hush, “Do you have a suggestion where to bring out this new Batman?”

Hush smirked before walking to the balcony, “Elliots old home” he leaped from the edge to the lower parts of Neo-Gotham.

Chapter Text

Melanie had driven Terry home. The two remained silent on the ride back. Terry thought she was being shy. The two had gotten intimate with each other not long after Dana had moved on from him. He must have thought she was shy, his arm on her waist while on the motorcycle. They stop at the end of the hill. Melanie took her helmet off to see it, amazed by the mansion from a distance. She then looks at Terry, “So this is where you live?”
Terry nodded his head, “Yeah, its alright though, I can walk from here” he stepped off.
The two looked at each other, turning away before turning their heads back to each other. Melanie's face was red, and Terry figured out the words to say.
“Listen Terry, I want you to know I had fun” she smiled
Terry gave her smile back, “Same here, this really helped thank you” he says pressing his lips on her cheek. Melanie looked away shy, but she had a look of sadness on her face. Terry’s head titled, “What's wrong?”
Melanie looked back, “Its nothing, but hey why don’t we do something tomorrow if you are around?”
“I am, what do you say tomorrow night we go to the old Gotham’s club? Its where I use to go with.. Dana, but I would like to take you if you want to go”
Melanie without saying anything smiled, “Alright, then its a date” the two locked lips before Melanie drove off. Terry looked off with a smile. Although he was still going through a break up perhaps he could find happiness with this new person she had met. He thought about her more walking up the hill. Once the gate was opened Terry continued walking until he got into the mansion. He saw the rooms were empty, so he went to the cloak that he uses. Opening it, he makes his way downstairs.
Luke was on the computer doing research on something, Terry couldn’t make out what it was, but he closed the window before turning it off once he heard footsteps behind him. Luke looked at it with a glance before speaking, “I tried calling you, you know. Where were you?”
“Sorry I had a long day. Met up with someone and we hung out” Terry tried to explain without giving details.
“Someone? Let me guess Dana?”
Terry shook his head, “No, we are over”
Luke gave him a sympathetic look, “I’m sorry”
“Its alright to find someone new. What's up?”
Luke turned on the computer again pulling up a map.
“What am I looking at?” Terry asked unsure what it was.
“This is the location of the Elliot house. Someone anonymously tipped of the Commissioner, so Barbara told me to tell you”
“You think Hush is there?” Terry asked.
Luke shrugged his shoulders, “Not sure, but if it is then we can end this. My suit is almost done with repairs, just need to work on one more thing, so when I’m done we could leave”
“Its fine, I got it” Terry told him.
Luke got annoyed by this, feeling Terry was being impatient. He talked to him sternly like he hasn’t before, “Terry be smart about this. This might be our chance to take down this imposter once in for all”
“That's why I need to go. He put Bruce in the hospital. Killed lots of people. I have to stop this before he gets away again”
Luke sighed before leaning back, “Fine. Dick is not around right now, so you are going to have to be on your own. Good luck”
Terry put his bag down, walking to his Batman suit before putting it on. He looked down at the bullet that had hit it. Terry thought that the suit was made to protect himself from bullets or else he would be dead.
“Suit got damaged again?” Luke asked.
“Yeah, I got hit protecting Mary, but I’m fine. This new version you gave me was stronger”
“Well be careful, and good luck” Luke told him again.
Terry headed to the Batmobile. Typing in the coordinates, then taking off, leaving Luke alone.

The Batmobile automatically flew through the location. It stopped in the air in front of the Elliot household. Terry patched himself towards Luke, “Alright Luke I’m in. This palace looks empty”
“Remember this home was abandoned for over twenty years. As respect for someone who was once his friend, Bruce wanted the house left as what it was”
“Did Bruce ever go back here?” Terry asked.
Luke shook his heads through the comms of the cave, “No, after tommy died, Bruce wanted to move on, so he came to visit”
“Well I’m going in now” Terry ended the communication. He stepped out of his vehicle before using his jets to bring him down.
Batman with caution had entered into his detective mode in order to scan the location for traps. Once he climbed the steps, he used a gadget he had stored in his glove to open the lock. Slowly closing it before turning back to face the house. It was dark, so the light in his belt had opened. Batman was ready to defend himself, not sure what surprises were in store, but he could tell it was a trap.
He checked each room, but Batman couldn’t find any clues. He however saw pictures of the Elliot family. The three of them looked happy, then he saw a picture of his crippled mother in a wheelchair with Thomas looking like he was at a graduation, he didn’t seem happy. He put the picture back down before continuing to walk. It was like a ghost town in this house. Batman went downstairs, slowly walking, but making his way to the fuse box, opening the poor lights could turn on. It did. Everywhere in the house had lightened up. He then turned his head to see there was another door. He unlocked it before stepping on something wet. Batman looked down to see it was a pool of blood. He looked to see who it was, and much to his horror it was Mad Stan, the same person he had been looking for. A pulse was checked, and the crazy bomber in this city was dead.
“Batman to the cave, I found Mad Stan, he is dead. Knife to the throat”
“So it was Hush?” Luke asked through the cave.
Before Batman could answer he put it on the back. He fell down, breaking off communication.
Luke tried to ask if he was alright, but Batman looked up to see it was a man shirtless with only shorts above the knees. He couldn't recognize him, but there were paint tattoos all over his body from arms to legs, and on his head.
“So you are the legendary Batman. My name is Stalker, and I’m here to kill you” Stalker used his spear to try, and hit Batman. Batman tried to ask questions, but Stalker was not listening, so he used his jets to run Stalker out of the room. He tried to fight back by throwing a wave of punches, and kicks at him, but Stalker used his reflexes to dodge him. He used his spear to hit Batman in the stomach, then the face. The caped crusader tried to launch his batarangs at him, but they were all blocked. The Stalker then took something he was holding on to,a dn threw it at him. Batman couldn’t tell what it was, but he got hit by it. The gas had gone all over the suit, blocking its vision. Stalker used this as an opportunity to knock Batman down again before using the electricity of the spear to shock him. Batman with his will was able to move, grabbing the weapon before pulling it away. He then stood up, and punched his enemy in the face.
The Stalker smirked like it was enjoyable. Batman was able to get his vision back up on the suit before he used his jets to kick his foe back. He then sends Stalker on the ground. The two continued to fight. The enemy was quick, and fast enough to keep dodging, but Batman was able to keep up with his movements. Quickly he dodged the spear before spinning around with the wings connected with the suit before landing a fist on the jaw.
Stalker was on one knee before ripping the dirt from his face. Just as Batman was about to continue, he stopped. The Stalker had one more gadget attached to his belt. It looked to be a detonator. Batman tried to stop him, but Stalker dodged, kicking down a shelf that landed onto him.
“The hunt has just begun my prey” The Stalker said before using his spear to lift him up to the entrance that led him out of the house. He then activated the detonator.
Through the other room where Mad Stan was laying down, there was a bomb going off in his stomach before it exploded. Batman saw the flames from the room coming his way. Thankfully he was able to get himself out before flying towards the entrance, using his jets to fly away. The whole house behind him exploded, knocking him back to the ground. He watched, as the whole house in front of him burned down. He was amazed the assassin went through great lengths just to try, and kill him like that.
“Terry, do you read me?” Luke tried calling him through the caves.
Terry answered, “I am fine, but the house isn’t. He used a bomb in Mad Stan's body to burn the whole place to the ground”
“Hush?”
Terry shook his head, “No it was some guy. Half naked, and in Tattoos all over his body. Never seen him before, but I will explain to you once I get back to the cave”
“Was he working with Hush?”
Batman shrugged his shoulders, “I don’t know, but someone killed Stan. This was a trap, you were right, I should have been more careful”
“Its alright Terry just get back here, I will inform Barbara of what just happened” Luke told him.
Terry went back to the Batmobile before flying back.
Stalker was distant, he saw Batman fly off in his vehicle. He smirked, as if his plan had worked.
“You have nowhere to hide Batman, I will find you, and I will kill you, my greatest hunt. A predator chasing his prey. You are my prey Batman”

Chapter Text

Melanie had entered her home.  The house is empty, and dark with her family no longer here.  She looked to see how big it was.  It was in her family for generations.  She turned on the lights, looking at the paintings in front of her.  Each painting represented her previous family dressed as queens, and kings.  She then lifted a photo from the desk.  A picture of the Walker family.  She was young in the photo, as well as her brother, and her parents.  They were so happy then, but they were just memories.  Melanie took a breath before putting it face down.  She walked over the room, it was filled with jewels, and rare items, everything she had helped stolen as a member of the Royal Flush Gang.  Melanie had wanted to leave this city, she almost did, but she was stopped by Batman, Since then she stayed to plan her next move.  Melanie had no money, she did however look at the expensive jewels, which would give her a way to get out of town, but they were in her family for generations.  It was wrong, but at the same time she wanted to leave.  Melanie however could feel her mind having second thoughts.  

Terry

She couldn't stop thinking about him.  Melanie could feel the connection that the two had,  it made her happy to find someone.  There was guilt written over her though with the things she had done she regretted, but knew she couldn’t tell him her secret.  She looked out onto the balcony.  Much she had on her mind, so she decided to go out after spending an hour looking at the wall above her bed.

On her motorcycle, Melanie drove through town.  It was chilly out, and quiet.  Parking in the back before entering the bar downstairs, she sat and drank, dreading the city.  She hated everything about it, Melanie had plans on leaving tonight, but she had no plan, no money for a new start.  She looked over her shoulder to see some crime boss family sat down playing cards.  She had been around her father long enough to know.  They were playing with money.  Melanie smirked as she walked over.  

The group of men looked at her.  Melanie didn’t say anything, she pulled one of the men out of the seat before sitting, “Mind if I play?” the men in suits looked at her.  They just handed her a deck of cards.  

“Know how to play?” The older man across from her asked.

“I’m decently good” Melanie responded.

“Well we are playing with money.  Have anything , little girl?” the man next to her tried to insult her.

Melanie took out a couple of fifty’s.  The two men mocked her for it, but the older man in the gray suit aloud it.  They began playing.

Melanie’s mother used to be good at this.  She would always win her games with her husband at her side.  Melanie put the first card down.  The man next to her doubled it, then the next guy also put in a set of cards.  The next one thru three sets of cards, then the next.

Melanie tried to figure out her next move.  She was good at following her mother when she played.  She looked at her hand and threw a three and two ones.  The others had threes and fours.  She countered it with fives.  The three she was playing against were getting annoyed that she was winning.  Melanie just sat there smirking.  The man across from her stood about, and was about to say something, but the guy next to him told him to sit.  The older gentleman let out cards for eights, then a ten, being above everyone else.  Before anyone else could say anything, she laid down on the table.  The men were shocked.

“Looks like I win” she said.

Everyone was outraged, “you cheated!” the man next to her said.  The other guy agreed.  The older man however out his hand out to stop them, “She is right, she won fair and square” giving her the bag.  The older man signaled at his guards.  Before Melanie was able to take it, the guard took the bag.  Melanie was confused, and looked at them.  

The older man spoke, “You want your money, follow us” he demanded.  Melanie was hesitant, but decided to follow.  With caution she followed the men and the guards on the way out.

They went out to an alley back door closed by one of the guards.  Melanie turned around before looking back only to be hit by the guy, then held by guards by the arms.  

“What’s the meaning of this!” she demanded.

“You seriously don’t recognize me as Melanie Walker” the older man said, walking up.  Melanie was confused, so he explained, “That's right, you are a little girl back then my name is Ruben Thorne.  I use to do business with your family, and your mothers father”

“My parents, brother, and uncle are in jail.  I have nothing to do with their business”

“You are right, but last time your father failed me during a business, and fled with something that belonged to me, so a debt needs to be paid.  I am going to kill you” he pulled out a gun.  

Melanie bent down before kicking the gun away from him, she then did a backflip before jumping on a wall, and grabbing one of the ladders.  The guards were going to shoot her, but Thorne shook his head, taking the money, and leaving.  

She had followed Thorne to his residence.  It looked like a big castle.  Melanie stayed back, parking her vehicle by the nearest bush.  When she got out, she went to the truck, opening it was her costume that she would wear as Ten.  She changed before going ahead.  Melanie waited for them to leave before she used her skills as a climber to climb up the bricked building, determined to get the money back knowing it was her ticket out of here.  She would then take a laser she had, and use it to open the door.  She hid behind a bookcase when a guard opened the door.  It was just him, so Melanie, as Ten jumped from behind, and put him in a headlock before passing him out.  She would then sneak out, hiding from the corner, so she isn’t caught by the cameras or the guards.  While hiding behind a wall, she heard Thorne talking to his fellow friends.  She quickly went into a vent, so she wasn't spotted.

“Do you think the girl followed?” one of his men asked.

Thorne chuckled, “Ha, she is a child, she has no one to help her.  If she did find her, then she would die.  Her father fled after failing to do what I asked, and ran away with my family jewel”

Melanie would look down, recalling the picture she held before.  Her mother always wears a bright red ruby on her neck.  Now she knew why Thorne was targeting her.  She continued, as the two spoke. 

“Her family is in jail.  She's on her own, we could track her down for you” 

Thorne shook his head, “That isn’t necessary, she isn’t a threat.  We will let her suffer out into this city, she has no help.  When she pops back up then we will kill her”

Melanie continued falling until she fell into the hole of the vent, bringing her into a room where laundry was being held.  

Melanie walked around, trying to find a way out.  Her best way to get the money back was to get to Thorne.  She continued to think about her Family, confused.  Melanie always knew her father wouldn’t abandon a job, so she kept wondering why he did it.  Eventually she would be spotted by a security guard, who would order for alarms to be raised.  Ten quickly took him down before throwing guards that would explode at the back up security.  She would climb back up to the upper levels of the building  before continuing to attack.  A guard would tackle her before she kneed him in the face, then kicked him far.  Using smoke grenades, she threw it disappearing.  Melanie looked in her pouch to see she didn’t have much artillery to help her, so she continued walking.  A servant would walk by, and she would grab him, covering his mouth so he didn’t say anything.

“Where is the money Thorne had?” she demanded.

Slowly letting go the man spoke, “In Mr. Thornes office on the upper levels, but he has guards, you will never get in” 

“Watch me” she said before knocking him out.

Ten continued fighting her way up.  She only had two cards left, leaving her to rely on her skills as a fighter. 

Guards would be taken down.  Guns were being fired.  Thorned hearing this would hide in his office with his security protecting him.  One of the men at the bar led the chase, but Ten was already in a vent before tackling the guards, and taking a gun, aiming it at the man's leg.  He screamed in pain, as Ten punched him, knocking him out.  She went back in the vent, finding a way to climb up to Thornes office.  Ruben stood there waiting for results, as the money was by his side with more in the vault behind him.  

Ten jumped down, knocking out the guards, and throwing her last card at the man next to Thorn, causing the gun to go off, leaving the hand blooded.  Thorne almost grabbed a knife, but Ten stopped him before throwing him to the table.

“You have something that belongs to me” she stated.

“You stole from me first” Thorne said.

Melanie looked ahead to see a head peace, but something was missing.  She stabbed Thornes hand before checking it out.  She knew what it was, then she turned to Thorne to say, “So this is what my father stole from you?”

“It belonged to my mother.  When she died my father left it there.  He was a hard man, but he loved her, and she was my mother, and your father stole it!” 

Melanie in her mask looked down, she was sad, she understood why he was upset now.  She turned back to meet Thornes face before removing the knife, “I am sorry, truly I am, but I am not my fathers daughter.  I need this money, as I’m never coming back to this city” she knocked him out before leaving with the bag.

Melanie would get home exhausted, she knew she had to get out now, having to have enough where she wanted to leave, but her mind shifted again to Terry.  She took her phone.  Recalling she had given Terry her number before.  She let in a breath of air before dialing the number.  She waited, and waited, thinking that he wasn’t going to answer, but before she could end the call there was a voice.

“Hello?” 

Melanie whos voice almost cracked had brought herself to answer, “Hello Terry, I know its been a few hours, sorry if I’m calling late”

“No worries, I'm happy you called, what's up?” Terry asked.

“Nothing, just wanted to thank you for tonight.  I look forward to tomorrow night” 

“Ditto, Where do you live?  I will pick you up” Terry asked her, but Melanie knew she had to shut down this idea, fearing what could happen if he found out her secret.  There was a minute pause, but Melanie was able to answer, “I will meet you there, I just got to take care of some things” 

“Alright no worries, then I will see you tomorrow” he hung up the phone after the two said goodnight to each other.

Melanie hated hiding this, but it was for the best.  She hated this city, and saw how bad it was.  Crime was just as bad as when she did it.  She then quickly realized something.  With the Walker family in prison perhaps she could use it as an opportunity to make her own name while being here.  Melanie then decided she would stay for now, perhaps bringing Him with her.

Chapter Text

Terry had already been home from school.  After having the rest of the day catching up on homework.  He didn’t even think about being Batman or last night fighting that assassin.  He just spent his day catching up on school, but when streaming his laptop he found a picture of him and Dana.  Terry without thinking closed the photo.  He then thought about Melanie.  He had felt the bond the two were having.  It was quick, but just having someone who cares about him call made him happy.  Terry had thought about calling Melanie, but didn’t do it.  He wanted to wait for tonight.

Terry showered before getting ready, not wanting to be late for his date.  He changed into a fresh set of clothes before putting on his favorite jacket.  He closed the door to his room before walking out.    

“Terry” a voice called

Terry looked back to see Luke standing behind him with his hands in the pocket of the suit, “Hey Luke what’s up?” 

“What’s up with you, you look nice.  Where are you going?”

“Just out with this girl I met”

“Just a girl?” Luke asked, raising his eyebrow.

The two shared a laugh, “Yes Luke, just a girl.  The one from last night”

“We’ll just” before Luke could finish Terry cutting him off.

“I know don’t worry I won’t tell her what we do”

“Well I was going to say have fun.  Also to be careful, you don’t want her catching on who you really are.  Remember there’s a reason why Bruce never settled down”

Terry only said bye before closing the door.

Melanie also was getting ready.  She was already Dressed in her black long sleeve, and pink shorts.  She slipped on her boots before closing the door to her house, then getting on her motorcycle.  She put her gold necklace, the one shaped as a ten.  She looked inside the lock.  The picture inside contained a photo of her with her family in the present.  She signed before closing it, she then would put on her helmet, and would proceed to take off.

Melanie had arrived at her destination.  She removed her helmet after parking her motorcycle.  Once she stepped off, she made her way to Gotham's night club.  She looked around, trying to find Terry.  He was waiting for her by the entrance.  The two looked at each with a grin.

“Hey” Melanie said.

“Hey, you made it” Terry replied back.  The two touched lips before going inside the club.

The two found a table where they sat.  Terry brought each of them a beer before sitting down.  The two had their bottles touch each other before they said it down on the table.  They both then had a glass of water after they spat it out.

“Not a beer person?” Melanie asked

“Don’t really drink like that” Terry said, as the two shared a laugh.  They lost track of how much time they were talking, but the two spent the first hour getting to know each other.  The enjoyment soon turned to ash when Terry looked over Melanie’s shoulder.  She caught on to this, “What’s wrong?” She asked.

Terry let out a deep breath, “My ex is here with her new boyfriend”

“Oh, we can leave if you want”

Terry rejected this idea, and had an idea.  He stood up walking closer to her, laying out a hand, “How about we dance”

Melanie looked away shy, then turned her head back.  She took Terrys hand, as he helped her up.  The two went on to the floor, and started dancing.  Melanie had her arms around Terry, as the two slowly danced.  They couldn’t help, but stare at each other, caught up in the moment.  Terry had his hands on her hip.  He then took his right hand, and touched the necklace. 

“Like the necklace” he said.

“Thanks my mother for giving it to me for my tenth birthday” she tilted her head down. 

Terry lifted her chin up, “It’s alright, let’s just enjoy our night” the two shared lips with each other before continuing staying on the floor.  Terrys mind was at peace.  This was what he needed.  No Batman or anything, just him with her.  The two co tinted dancing until they stopped.

“Be right back, just got to hit the can” he said.

“Don’t take too long” she teased.  Terry kissed her on the cheek before he left.  He had to go to use the bathroom.  While coming out after washing his hands, he saw Dana outside.  Terry paused, but before he could try to walk away, Dana called him out.

“Terry”

Terry sighed couldn’t bring himself to leave, “Dana”

“I saw you were here, thought I was acting crazy.  I see you are with that girl at from the bar” 

Terry didn’t listen, but Dana called him, “Wait, I’m sorry” 

Terry turned his head, “Excuse me?” 

“I’m sorry for how things ended.  I was just so concerned about you.  You have been seen with cuts, and bruises, and you were in the hospital.  I was worried, I just didn’t want to see you hurt anymore” 

Terry let out a sigh before speaking, “Tell me how long have you been seeing this guy?” 

“Its not what it looked like, but I have been hanging around him, and been doing homework, but Terry you are always disappearing even at the end of high school, and you won’t tell me what's wrong”

Before Terry could talk he saw Rick come up from behind Dana.  He put his arm around her, “Are you alright babe?” he asked before glaring at Terry.  Suddenly he had a different emotional response then last time, “Listen, I don't want you near Dana, she moved on.  I’m sorry, but its time for you to go” he put his hand on Terrys shoulder, giving him a slight push.  Terry could immediately tell he was drunk.

“Rick!” Dana said angrily, as she hit his arm aggressively.

Terry didn’t bungee, “Its alright, I was just leaving” he made his way back to Melanie who was on the dance floor enjoying herself, she saw something was wrong with Terry when he came up.

“What is wrong?” she asked, holding his hands.

Terry shook his head, “Nothing, let's just get out of here” he took her hand walking out.  She was confused, but followed her partner.  As the two were walking out, Terry noticed a figure above.

Oh no

Terry thought to himself.  The Stalker found him somehow, his first mind was to get Melanie out of there, and somewhere safe. 
Melanie noticed he was walking faster now, and stopped him, “Whats going on?” pulling away, confused about his change in behavior.  Before he could say anything, Stalker took his weapon and aimed it at the glass, breaking.  This caused the music to stop, everyone panicked.  His gaze was at Terry, who immediately ran, grabbing on to Melanie.  They went out with the Stalker not too far behind.  

Terry brought her to an alley, keeping her still, “Get out of here” 

Melanie stopped him, “What’s going on?  Where are you going?  Most importantly, why does he seem to be after you?”

“I’m getting help, just go, I will find you” before she could say anything, Terry kissed her on the cheek before running.  He saw the Stalker looking at him dead in the eye.  Terry immidenty ran, while pulling out his phone to dial a number.

“Hello?”

“Luke, that guy at the Elliot House, he is after me, but I don’t know why”

Luke was already at the cave on the computer, “Hold on, try and by time, and I will think of something”

Terry didn’t like the idea, but it was his only option.  He continued running, and running fast, but the Stalker was faster.  Terry ran into groups of the Jokerz gang, who all looked at him.  He punched a clown in the face before running again.  The Stalker came forward, knocking the other two out before contouring his chase.  Even after that Terry still couldn’t lose him.  He climbed over the fence, Stalker happened over it.  Terry cut a corner hoping he would get away when he was stopped.

A police vehicle stopped Terry.  Two of them stepped out, demanding where he was going.

“You gotta help me, someone’s after me.  Half naked with tattoos all over his body.  The officers were not listening to him.  They were going to take him in for questioning, but before any words could be said the Stalker came up.  This caused the police to pull out their weapons, but he easily handled them.

Terry on the other hand ran.  While running he picked up the phone, “Hello?”

“I found the name of the guy.  He goes by the Stalker.  He is a hunter that chases the most dangerous prey in the world” Luke said while reading his files.

“Why’s he after me?” Terry being confused

“Just try to lose him,” Luke told him.

Terry tried to figure out something.  He knew he couldn’t risk his identity by fighting in public.  By the time Luke sent the suit it might be too late for him.  His train of thought was stopped when the Stalker threw his spear in front of him.  Terry looked back to see Stalker grinning, as he slowly walked to him.  

Terry found himself trapped.  He was at a dock, behind him was water.  That is when he had an idea.  Before the Stalker could strike, Terry jumped into the ocean right on time before he got caught.  In a desperate attempt, Stalker takes darts, and blows it at his prey, but he only got the jacket.  There was nobody there.  The Stalker screamed in a fit of rage.  He grabbed his spear and left.

Terry swam back up, waiting behind the dock until it was time to climb back up.  He lifted himself up.  Relieved his Stalker was gone, but he was all wet, and his phone was broken.  He grabbed his jacket from the water before going back to the club, he just wanted to make sure Melanie was safe.

Terry had walked back to the club.  The police were already there monitoring the scene.  Over to the far left was Commissioner Gordon.  Terry approached her.  Barbara stopped what she was doing to meet up with him.

“You look wet” Barbara said the first words.

“Yeah, I was being chased by that maniac” Terry pointed out.

Barbara scratched her chin before speaking, “Who is he?”

Terry shrugged his shoulder, “I don’t know, but he got away” 

“I know, he was back here” 

Terry was surprised by this, but before he could say anything else, he saw Melanie.  The two approached each other, as they embraced.

“Terry, I’m glad you are okay” Melanie spoke, but saw he was wet, “What happened to you?” 

“I swam” he said.  The two laughed.

Terry looked over her shoulder to see Dana’s new boyfriend Rick talking to the police.  He looked like he was freaking out.  Terry looked back at Melanie, who gave him a sad look before speaking.  Gordon was also there.  

Melanie spoke, “I’m sorry Terry, but Dana has been kidnapped”

Chapter Text

Terry found himself at the cave.  He had lost track of how long he was pacing around, his arms folded behind his back.  Luke who had enough decided to say something, “Terry, you need to relax”

Terry looked back, “How can, I when its my fault she got kidnapped” 

“I would listen to Luke” 

The two looked behind them.  Bruce was coming down the stairs weekly with Dick, and Mary staying close by to make sure he wouldn’t fall.  

Luke immediately stood up, letting Bruce sit down.

“How are you feeling?” Luke asked him.

“Terrible” Bruce responded before looking at Terry, “You are soaked, go shower, Luke will catch me up to speed” Terry agreed, and went into the caves shower.  He had left down the jacket like Luke had asked.  

After coming out of the shower, he put on a fresh pair of clothes. Terry walked over seeing Bruce, and Luke examining his jacket. 

“Find anything?” Terry asked.

“Yeah, were you hit by gas at all?” Luke asked.

“Yeah at the Elliot house” 

“Well it was used to track your movements which is how he was able to find you” Bruce added.

“So youre saying its my fault.  Now Dana is in danger because of me” Terry said to himself out loud, visibly upset.

“He won’t” Bruce stated.

“You don’t know that!” Terry started to argue back, but Bruce remind calm.

“I do.  Think, he wants you.  If he harms your friend, then that won’t gain him anything”

Terry realized what Bruce was saying was right, calming him down, but it didn’t end there.  Luke also revealed something, “We do have another problem.  I was doing some work, Barbara gave me a drive, and bombs have been implanted all over the city.  Enough to level the whole city.  We need to do something about it”

Terry wasn’t listening, he shook his head, “I have to save Dana”

“The city comes first” Bruce stated.

Before Terry could argue back, Dick cut in, “Luke, how many bombs are planted in the city?”

“Alot” Luke showed him the map.

“Mary, and I can help” 

“My suit is also fixed” Luke stated.

Terry just looked down conflicted.  Luke notices this, and gives him a tablet, “This is where he is holding her.  We will deal with the bombs, just get your.. Dana back” Terry looked at Luke, and smiled.  Bruce wasn’t happy, as he wanted everyone on this, but Terry did not care.  He changed into his suit before getting into the batmobile.  The rest of the bat family soon left after to disarm the bombs.

Terry was flying through the skys, looking at the map.  His heart tightened, fearing the worst.  He looked down below, and he couldn’t believe it.  Ten was on her motorcycle.  Terry was annoyed, this wasn’t something he wanted to do tonight.  He aggressively pulled the batmobile down, so he could approach her, then he got out to confront her.

Ten stood back when she saw Batman.  He slowly walked to her, throwing a batarang, so she wouldn’t reach for anything in her pockets.  He then proceeded to tackle her against the wall.

“You know, I did not want to do this tonight, but you just made this easy” he stated before pulling at her mask.

“Stop!” before she could say anything, Batman removed her mask.  He dropped it, as he took a big step back, trying not to say her name.

“Its not what it looks like.  My partner, someone he cared about was abducted, I’m trying to find her, and bring him back” she pleaded with him.

That is when Batman decided to take her arm after picking up the mask, and grappling above the roof.  She pulled away from him, ready to fight, but Batman stood still, as he removed his mask.  

Melanie was surprised.  Her eyes widened, “Terry?”

“Hey Melanie” he couldn’t even look at her because he was embarrassed.  The two sat down on the edge of the building to talk.

After sometime the two had mixed feelings.  Although Melanie was upset it was Terry who sent her family to jail, she knew it was the right thing.  The two looked away at each other.  Terry had mixed feelings, having romantic interests in a criminal.  After moments of staying silent the two talked.

It was Terry who broke the silence, “How did you know?” 

“I just did, you seemed shocked to see me.  I slowly was putting it together when we fought those thugs at that diner.  I didn’t know it then, but looking at your height it makes sense.  Does Dana know?” she asked him.

Terry shook his head, “No, I don’t know why he is after me, but thats why I have to find them”

“I will come to” Melanie offered, but Terry put out a hand.

“You are basically a criminal, I can’t let you go loose”

Melanie looked at him with a fury, obviously mad, but knew it was true, “You are right.  I deserve to be behind bars with the rest of my family, but I swear I never wanted a part of it.  My parents made me, and my brother joined them.  I always wanted out, which is why I planned to leave the city.  I was going ask you, but then that happened” Terry looked down before Melanie pulled his head towards her direction, “I swear, I don’t want trouble, I want to rescue her for you, but I need to know if you will let me go”

Terry thought about it.  He cared for Melanie, but he knew as Batman he had a responsibility.  Still if there was a chance she could help then he would take it.  He stood up without looking at her, “Fine, but then that's it.  Come I have a way to find them” he said sternly.  Melanie reluctantly did what she was told.

The two were on the batwing, following the coordinates that Luke had given Terry.  It was a silent trip.  No one spoke, but it was Melanie who had broke the silence, “I did mean it, I am sorry Terry”

Terry didn’t respond.  His hands were in the wheel.  Melanie was going to say something again, but now it was he who spoke, “If you wanted out why didn’t you leave sooner”

“I was.  I had planned it, but when you called me to meet up, I fell in love with you and thought about staying, but I was attacked that night” Terry stopped to turn his head for a quick second, but Melanie waved it off, “I’m fine, but that’s why I wanted out, and I had planned to ask you”

Before Terry could say anything, they were approaching their destination.  He pulled forward, going to an abandoned building.  Both he and Melanie stepped out.  The two looked at each other, and were ready to walk in as their personas.

Upon entering, Ten stopped Batman, as he tapped on detective mode.  He saw it was a trap.  He looked at Ten, who took out a laser, pointing it at red lines across from them.  This led to dots coming from the opposite side, hitting the wall.

Batman’s eyes were surprised after turning off detective mode.  He looked at Ten, nodding his head before continuing the path they were on.  

Ten had accidently stepped on a tile where an ax would take her head if Batman had not moved her out of the way.  She looked at him, as he helped her up, now cautious on what they should expect.

Batman kicked the door open.  He then saw Dana trapped in a cage hanging near the edge. “Dana!” he bursted out suddenly.  This drew her attention more.  Curious how Batman knows her name.

Before Batman went to rescue her, a spear flew in front of him, hitting the ground.  The Stalker appeared from the shadows.  Batman grunted his teeth, “You”

“Don’t worry, no harm has come to her.  She is only the prey”

Batman without thinking charged at his foe.  The Stalker took his spread, and knocked Batman down before electrocuting him, he then swapped his feet, as he knocked him down to the wooden ground, causing it to break.  The two fell in the hole while Ten used this opportunity to try and free Dana.  

Underground the two were fighting.  Stalker was overpowering him, Batman used his anger over Dana’s obduction had fuel his attacks.  After he got hit in the Gut, Batman used the claws in his suit, scratching Stalkers chest, leaving marks.  

The assassin took a step back, looking at the scratch, “I see you're angry.  Good” he smirked.

Batman continued to throw a wave of punches, and Kicks.  Some hit his foe, but he blocked the last one before aiming the spear at Batman’s knee.  Batman then uses the rockets in the boots to fly up, as he hits Stalkers chin.  The two then tugged on the spear before Batman stepped out of the way.  The spear hit a circuit board attached to a panel.  The electricity shocked Stalker, causing him to fall back.  The electricity shocked him hard enough the scar on his back glowed. 

Batman knew from the moment the Stalker stood up something was wrong.  His vision was messed up almost like he was hallucinating.   He screeched in pain, hiding, begging in the corner.  This only pitted Batman, as he knocked him out with a punch before flying with his body back up the surface.  He was removed to find Dana was alright.  Ten was able to get her free. He threw the Stalker's body on the floor before approaching her.  Batman stopped himself when he realized what he was doing, “Are you alright ma’am?” he asked.

“How do you know my name? “ she asked him.

“I saved your life before” 

“I still never told you my name” Dana started to fold her arms.  

Before he could say anything Batman looked away before looking back, “Come, time to get out”

Batman waited for the Stalker to be dragged away.  He woke up still hallucinating, but he was restrained so he couldn’t escape.  

He then turned his gaze towards Dana who went in the police car to go home.

“McGuiness are you there?” Bruce talking through the cave.

“I’m here” 

“Now that you rescued the girl, you need to help Dick, and the others”

“I will, but first I have to deal with one thing” Terry ends comms before going to an alley.  He flew up to a building, meeting with Melanie, or Ten since she is still in her costume. 

“There are bombs that could level the city.  I could use your help”

Ten thought for a moment before speaking, “No” she bluntly says.

Terry titled his head, “Melanie this is serious.  People will die”

“Then come with me” she says. 

“What” 

“Come with me.  You already have risked your life for the people in this city.  You don’t owe them a thing.  Run away with me” she walked closer, putting a hand on his chest”

“You are still a criminal.  I’m sorry, but the law is the law” before he could grab her, Melanie tossed him in the ground before jumping on her card that flew in her direction.

She looked at him with a sad face, “Goodbye Terry” she whispered before flying off.

He looked at her back until she left, “Goodbye Melanie”

Chapter Text

The bat team were already on the move to dismiss the bombs placed in the city. Dick, and Mary were in one place, and Luke as Batwing went to another with Batman soon to join. The group was already making progress on the bombs. The locations were empty in each part of the city. From old criminal buildings to Gotham parks, and others. This made the group on each side of the city more suspicious. They continued searching the city, almost being halfway done. Batman was flying the batmobile through the sky in hopes to help out. Through the skies he saw a trail of bodies. He flew out of his vehicle to check it out. The bodies were made up of different factions of each gang in the city. Batman was almost horrified before reaching out to Bruce on their communication, “Bruce, do you see this?” still looking at the bodies, each part dismembered. “I do, this new Hush is near, I could feel it. Be Careful Terry” Bruce said before ending the conversation. Batman continued following the trail that ended in an alley by a tall building. He looked up to see a figure standing above. Batman quickly flew up to meet Hush standing on top of the building. He glared at him, “This ends now” “I’m impressed that you survived your encounter with the Stalker, but not surprised” Hush smirked. “It was you who sent him?” Hush nodded his head, “Indeed, I need you dead. I realized after our last encounter that this city needs to be cleansed, but first it needs to be destroyed. Once I killed you, I will kill your friends, then I will destroy this city, and have it rebuild” “Not if I can help it” Batman started fighting the bandaged villain. The two started to fight. Batman threw the first punch, hitting him repeatedly. Hush then caught the next punch, and kicked him back, but Batman swooped his legs. Hush then kicked him in the leg, causing him to fall. He then pulled out a gun, shooting him three times. Batman's armor that protected him had the red bat symbol deleted from the bullets. He used the batarang to knock the gun before tackling him to the ground. Hush would use his feet to kick him off before running. Batman standing up would run after him, each one jumping from building to building. As he was about to jump to the last building, Batman used his jets, grabbing on to Hush before diving through a window. He quickly punched Hush. From the stomach to the face. He threw him on a wall before using the strength of the suit to throw him on the ground. Batman grabbed him by the collar, punching him in the face, losing count how many times. Blood was coming through the bandages. He let go, tossing the villain to the ground. He then put his hand on his head talking through communication, “Batman to team, Hush is down, how's everything on your end?” “Finished on my end” Batwing told him. “We have a problem” Dick told them, “Mary, and I are in our last one, but its in a strange location. The Iceberg Lounge where the Penguin is retired. We are in there now trying to get to old man Cobblepot'' Dick, and Mary tried to squeeze their way through the large crowds. They looked at their device, trying to follow the map. It led upstairs to the old Ozes apartment. The guards guarding the entrance tried to stop them, but Mary easily handled them. Looking at Dick, he nodded his head, complimenting her on her skills. “Oswald, we need to talk” Dick tried to open the door, but it was locked. There was no response so he kicked the door down to only be terrified to see that Cobblepot was dead. His throat slashed. The two were speechless, not sure how this happened. “Guys there is a problem. Oswald is dead” Batman picked Hush back up, pinning him against the wall, demanding to know what he had done. On the other side of the city Dick, and Mary looked at each other. Dick in a sign of respect closed Oswalds eyes before taking the pad from Mary. He looked towards the direction of the safe. It was already open. When he pulled it out there was a string that was attached to the device. Accidentally the wires loosed, causing bombs to beep throughout the office. They were in Oswalds alcohol to paint the whole room. Red glows were also flashing through the building. Looking again at the map, red dots were seen all over. Bruce at the cave could see it as well, he knew what it ment. He stood up, as he shouted, “DICK YOU, AND MARY NEED TO GET OUT OF THERE” It was too late the building exploded. Bombs detonated from the kitchen to the floor from upstairs. Before Dick could get him, and his daughter out of there it was two late. The whole building went on fire, as it collapsed. Bruce tried to contact Dick, but there was no response, “Batwing where are you?” “Flying there now” Luke started through the suit. Batman turned his glance at Hush, as he was going to deliver the final blow, but he lost his grip. There was a pain in his side, he felt blood on his hand. He looked down to see a wound spreading through. Hush had stabbed him with the knife. This caused him to fall down, coughing blood in his mouth that was being buried under the mask. Hush gave a sinister smile, removing the bandages from his scared face, causing Batman to look on in horror, as he was struggling to breath. “The final stages of my plan are near. I will achieve what Bruce Wayne couldn’t. A perfect utopia for Gotham. A city free of criminals, and a safe paradise for families, and children growing up. I TIM DRAKE WILL MAKE THAT HAPPEN”

Chapter Text

The bat team were already on the move to dismiss the bombs placed in the city. Dick, and Mary were in one place, and Luke as Batwing went to another with Batman soon to join. The group was already making progress on the bombs. The locations were empty in each part of the city. From old criminal buildings to Gotham parks, and others. This made the group on each side of the city more suspicious. They continued searching the city, almost being halfway done. Batman was flying the batmobile through the sky in hopes to help out. Through the skies he saw a trail of bodies. He flew out of his vehicle to check it out. The bodies were made up of different factions of each gang in the city. Batman was almost horrified before reaching out to Bruce on their communication, “Bruce, do you see this?” still looking at the bodies, each part dismembered. “I do, this new Hush is near, I could feel it. Be Careful Terry” Bruce said before ending the conversation. Batman continued following the trail that ended in an alley by a tall building. He looked up to see a figure standing above. Batman quickly flew up to meet Hush standing on top of the building. He glared at him, “This ends now” “I’m impressed that you survived your encounter with the Stalker, but not surprised” Hush smirked. “It was you who sent him?” Hush nodded his head, “Indeed, I need you dead. I realized after our last encounter that this city needs to be cleansed, but first it needs to be destroyed. Once I killed you, I will kill your friends, then I will destroy this city, and have it rebuild” “Not if I can help it” Batman started fighting the bandaged villain. The two started to fight. Batman threw the first punch, hitting him repeatedly. Hush then caught the next punch, and kicked him back, but Batman swooped his legs. Hush then kicked him in the leg, causing him to fall. He then pulled out a gun, shooting him three times. Batman's armor that protected him had the red bat symbol deleted from the bullets. He used the batarang to knock the gun before tackling him to the ground. Hush would use his feet to kick him off before running. Batman standing up would run after him, each one jumping from building to building. As he was about to jump to the last building, Batman used his jets, grabbing on to Hush before diving through a window. He quickly punched Hush. From the stomach to the face. He threw him on a wall before using the strength of the suit to throw him on the ground. Batman grabbed him by the collar, punching him in the face, losing count how many times. Blood was coming through the bandages. He let go, tossing the villain to the ground. He then put his hand on his head talking through communication, “Batman to team, Hush is down, how's everything on your end?” “Finished on my end” Batwing told him. “We have a problem” Dick told them, “Mary, and I are in our last one, but its in a strange location. The Iceberg Lounge where the Penguin is retired. We are in there now trying to get to old man Cobblepot'' Dick, and Mary tried to squeeze their way through the large crowds. They looked at their device, trying to follow the map. It led upstairs to the old Ozes apartment. The guards guarding the entrance tried to stop them, but Mary easily handled them. Looking at Dick, he nodded his head, complimenting her on her skills. “Oswald, we need to talk” Dick tried to open the door, but it was locked. There was no response so he kicked the door down to only be terrified to see that Cobblepot was dead. His throat slashed. The two were speechless, not sure how this happened. “Guys there is a problem. Oswald is dead” Batman picked Hush back up, pinning him against the wall, demanding to know what he had done. On the other side of the city Dick, and Mary looked at each other. Dick in a sign of respect closed Oswalds eyes before taking the pad from Mary. He looked towards the direction of the safe. It was already open. When he pulled it out there was a string that was attached to the device. Accidentally the wires loosed, causing bombs to beep throughout the office. They were in Oswalds alcohol to paint the whole room. Red glows were also flashing through the building. Looking again at the map, red dots were seen all over. Bruce at the cave could see it as well, he knew what it ment. He stood up, as he shouted, “DICK YOU, AND MARY NEED TO GET OUT OF THERE” It was too late the building exploded. Bombs detonated from the kitchen to the floor from upstairs. Before Dick could get him, and his daughter out of there it was two late. The whole building went on fire, as it collapsed. Bruce tried to contact Dick, but there was no response, “Batwing where are you?” “Flying there now” Luke started through the suit. Batman turned his glance at Hush, as he was going to deliver the final blow, but he lost his grip. There was a pain in his side, he felt blood on his hand. He looked down to see a wound spreading through. Hush had stabbed him with the knife. This caused him to fall down, coughing blood in his mouth that was being buried under the mask. Hush gave a sinister smile, removing the bandages from his scared face, causing Batman to look on in horror, as he was struggling to breath. “The final stages of my plan are near. I will achieve what Bruce Wayne couldn’t. A perfect utopia for Gotham. A city free of criminals, and a safe paradise for families, and children growing up. I TIM DRAKE WILL MAKE THAT HAPPEN”

Chapter Text

The bat team were already on the move to dismiss the bombs placed in the city. Dick, and Mary were in one place, and Luke as Batwing went to another with Batman soon to join. The group was already making progress on the bombs. The locations were empty in each part of the city. From old criminal buildings to Gotham parks, and others. This made the group on each side of the city more suspicious. They continued searching the city, almost being halfway done.
Batman was flying the batmobile through the sky in hopes to help out. Through the skies he saw a trail of bodies. He flew out of his vehicle to check it out. The bodies were made up of different factions of each gang in the city. Batman was almost horrified before reaching out to Bruce on their communication, “Bruce, do you see this?” still looking at the bodies, each part dismembered.
“I do, this new Hush is near, I could feel it. Be Careful Terry” Bruce said before ending the conversation.
Batman continued following the trail that ended in an alley by a tall building. He looked up to see a figure standing above. Batman quickly flew up to meet Hush standing on top of the building. He glared at him, “This ends now”
“I’m impressed that you survived your encounter with the Stalker, but not surprised” Hush smirked.
“It was you who sent him?”
Hush nodded his head, “Indeed, I need you dead. I realized after our last encounter that this city needs to be cleansed, but first it needs to be destroyed. Once I killed you, I will kill your friends, then I will destroy this city, and have it rebuild”
“Not if I can help it” Batman started fighting the bandaged villain.
The two started to fight. Batman threw the first punch, hitting him repeatedly. Hush then caught the next punch, and kicked him back, but Batman swooped his legs. Hush then kicked him in the leg, causing him to fall. He then pulled out a gun, shooting him three times. Batman's armor that protected him had the red bat symbol deleted from the bullets. He used the batarang to knock the gun before tackling him to the ground. Hush would use his feet to kick him off before running. Batman standing up would run after him, each one jumping from building to building.
As he was about to jump to the last building, Batman used his jets, grabbing on to Hush before diving through a window. He quickly punched Hush. From the stomach to the face. He threw him on a wall before using the strength of the suit to throw him on the ground.
Batman grabbed him by the collar, punching him in the face, losing count how many times. Blood was coming through the bandages. He let go, tossing the villain to the ground. He then put his hand on his head talking through communication, “Batman to team, Hush is down, how's everything on your end?”
“Finished on my end” Batwing told him.
“We have a problem” Dick told them, “Mary, and I are in our last one, but its in a strange location. The Iceberg Lounge where the Penguin is retired. We are in there now trying to get to old man Cobblepot''
Dick, and Mary tried to squeeze their way through the large crowds. They looked at their device, trying to follow the map. It led upstairs to the old Ozes apartment. The guards guarding the entrance tried to stop them, but Mary easily handled them. Looking at Dick, he nodded his head, complimenting her on her skills.
“Oswald, we need to talk” Dick tried to open the door, but it was locked. There was no response so he kicked the door down to only be terrified to see that Cobblepot was dead. His throat slashed. The two were speechless, not sure how this happened.
“Guys there is a problem. Oswald is dead”
Batman picked Hush back up, pinning him against the wall, demanding to know what he had done.
On the other side of the city Dick, and Mary looked at each other. Dick in a sign of respect closed Oswalds eyes before taking the pad from Mary. He looked towards the direction of the safe. It was already open. When he pulled it out there was a string that was attached to the device. Accidentally the wires loosed, causing bombs to beep throughout the office. They were in Oswalds alcohol to paint the whole room. Red glows were also flashing through the building. Looking again at the map, red dots were seen all over. Bruce at the cave could see it as well, he knew what it ment. He stood up, as he shouted, “DICK YOU, AND MARY NEED TO GET OUT OF THERE”
It was too late the building exploded. Bombs detonated from the kitchen to the floor from upstairs. Before Dick could get him, and his daughter out of there it was two late. The whole building went on fire, as it collapsed.
Bruce tried to contact Dick, but there was no response, “Batwing where are you?”
“Flying there now” Luke started through the suit.
Batman turned his glance at Hush, as he was going to deliver the final blow, but he lost his grip. There was a pain in his side, he felt blood on his hand. He looked down to see a wound spreading through. Hush had stabbed him with the knife. This caused him to fall down, coughing blood in his mouth that was being buried under the mask.
Hush gave a sinister smile, removing the bandages from his scared face, causing Batman to look on in horror, as he was struggling to breath.
“The final stages of my plan are near. I will achieve what Bruce Wayne couldn’t. A perfect utopia for Gotham. A city free of criminals, and a safe paradise for families, and children growing up. I TIM DRAKE WILL MAKE THAT HAPPEN”

Chapter Text

Batman, and Ten had arrived at the facility. They looked at each other through the window. The building was on fire. Below were riots going on. The criminals that were locked up were fighting off the Hush cult. From the distance they noticed the officers had wrapped their heads in bandages, this caused them to be cautious. The window of the batmobile opened, as Batman flew off with Ten. He tackled the officer he approached. The one next to him was about to shoot him, but Ten’s card caused the gun to explode. They then would be met by groups of Blackgate criminals, which they would fight off. Batman knew he had to find Barbara, knowing she was in trouble. While running around the facility the two would see the dead bodies of the officers. They know they were innocent. The two had to stop Hush fast.
Batman, and Ten fought their way through the crowds, both Hush cult members, and Blackgate Criminals that they had encountered. There were some trying to fight off the cult, but they were being overwhelmed, but Batman came in to save them, then they would bring them to safety, help them find a safe space to hide, while he went back out. Rioters were charging at him, but Batman would fight them off again. He wanted to try and continue breaking up the crowds, but Bruce had told him to find Barbara, and save what officers they found. Batman looked back, but Ten was nowhere in sight. Terry had wanted to find her, knowing how dangerous it was for her. This put him in a difficult position. He looked on to see conflict happening around him. The whole facility was a mess. This had him worried something would happen to Melanie.
“You must find Barbara, and stop Hush” Bruce reminded him again. Terry wanted to argue back, but he knew he was right. Batman must save Neo-Gotham, something he told himself repeatedly.
His fist clenched at the thought of something happening, but he let go, and sighed. He knew it was time for him to do the right thing. He spoke to Bruce who was still at the cave, “Alright where is she?”
“According to the tracker she is in the security room. Luke is still trying to repair his suit. Mary is with him, so you are going to have to be on your own for right now” he reminded him.
“Wasn’t expecting anything less. Going to find the Commissioner now” before Batman would move Bruce said something to him, “Good luck Terry”
Terry didn’t say anything. He would move towards the security room. With all the chaos going on it was easy for him to get by undetected. The only time he would stop is if a cop was in trouble.

Batman had made his way towards the Security room. He had fought off Hush members that had guns, then kicked the door. He stormed in, in hopes of finding Barbara. She was there on the ground and passed out. Her arm was holding her shoulder. Batman saw this, and rushed over.
“Commissioner? Barbara can you hear me” he shrugged her.
Barbara opened her eyes, “McGuiness?”she said before standing up. Batman would help her stand.
“Are you alright?” he asked.
“I’m fine, I had it worse” she told him.
“Its getting bad out there Commissioner. Some of the officers had dressed their faces in bandages” Batman told her.
“I know, I killed one” she pointed at the dead body of Frank Boles jr, “Were there any other officers?”
“Yeah, but don’t worry I got some of them in a place to stay low. Honestly I don’t know who's left”
“Don’t worry about it. You need to stop Hush. He is in this building, I overheard on the talky”
“What about you” Batman pointed at Barbara’s wound.
“I will be fine. I will rally as many officers as I can while we wait for backup, and we will take back this facility” she put a hand on his shoulder, “Don’t worry about me just go” Batman did what he was told, and left.

Meanwhile Ten was roaming the facility. She knew her family was being held. Melanie was already looking from afar. She gasped, as she noticed the young man with long dark hair. It was her brother, Jack was cornered fighting the inmates. She used her agility to climb up the ramp. She kicked the attacker before standing next to her brother.
“Sister” Jack said, looking away.
“Jack. Where’s everyone else?” She asked, as the two fought off the goons.
“Not sure we were separated. Ace is with mother, and father, well he used me as a sacrifice, trying to escape”
“He what!” Ten sounded furious. The two continued fighting off their attackers. Melanie could see that her brother was hurt and betrayed out of everything he had done for their father.
The two escaped, making their way towards the exit. They ran out, trying to escape. They fought whoever tried to apprehend them. Jack took a knife as a weapon. He took it and jammed it into a guard who tried to approach him. He then threw it at a panel, causing the door to open. The two made it out before shutting it back.
The two were outside, watching, as the crisis at Blackgate spread. They had decided to escape. Melanie being closer to Jack didn’t want to leave her brother even though he was as much part of
the crimes as she was. She had wanted to go back for her mother, and Ace, but knew they would just resume their family activity.
Their father was seen fighting back against the members of the Hush cult. He was in his prison uniform. His facial hair was seen, as he gritted his teeth, beating the people that were in his way. He knocked one in the face before taking his weapon, and firing at the other ones. They were on the ground. One was crawling, but King stomped on his hand before shooting him on the head. His gun was out of bullets, so he hit him on the head with it before tossing it away. He then turned his head at his kids.
He smirked, “Hello kids. Melanie glad you came back to rescue us. Took you long enough” before he continued speaking Ten punched him in the face, leaving a mark. The King commended her, “I see your grip is stronger”
“Thats for leaving Jack” she told him.
“Yeah what's the big deal? Thought we don’t leave family!” Jack was furious.
“I don’t. I was finding away out, then coming back for you, and the rest of the family”
Ten stepped forward, “I am leaving, and so is Jack, we are done”
The King chuckled, “Are you sure? Is that what you want Jack? We could be rich. No one is going to hire a convicted felon like you. Come with me, and we will find the rest of our family. We will rebuild ourselves better than before. What do you say?”
Jack couldn’t say anything. He was speechless, he knew that he didn’t have a bright future ahead. He looked at Ten who had come to his rescue when no one wouldn't
While the siblings were finding a way out, the King would try to get out on his own. Jack looked at his sister again, then his father.
He signed, “I am sorry sister” he walked up standing next to his father.
The King looked at his daughter with a sinister smile. Melanie felt hurt by Jack turning on her. She thought about Terry, and what he would do. This would cause her to take a more defensive stand.
The King smirked, “Are you really going to take me on, daughter?” he mocked her. Before a fight could break out, King fell unconscious after getting hit on the head. Melanie looked down, and saw Jack holding a weapon from an unconscious guard before tossing it to the ground. He then looked at his father,”That’s for leaving me behind pops” he then turned towards his sister, “ Let’s go”
The two continued moving on, avoiding the criminals that roamed the facility. No one would see them.
The siblings made it towards a cliff. Ten had already called her card towards her. While they were waiting people were behind them. Melanie, and Jack prepared themselves, but let their guard down when they saw who it was. It was their mother. Blond hair, and blue eyes just like Melanie’s. Next to her was Ace. He had dark skin, and no hair on his head or face. Melanie wasn’t sure what to say, but her mother spoke, “Daughter, son”
“Mother” Ten said.
“Where’s your father?” Their mother asked.
Before Ten was about to answer Jack cut her off, “He left me beyond, so we left him behind” he said proudly.
The Queen was surprised, but wasn’t at the same time. She however was hurt that her husband would do this to her son. She let out a sigh, “I’m sorry Jack”
“We plan to leave. We want to start new lives” Ten said, removing her mask. She then looked her mother in the eyes. She thought she was going to be mad, but her mother wasn’t. Instead she came closer, “Go. Start a new life” Melanie was also surprised, and looked at Jack then back at her, “Why don’t you come with us. We can start over together”
Their mother shook her head, “It’s too late for me Melanie, but you, and your brother are young. Find a new life, be happy” she laid a hand on her daughter's shoulder. This made Melanie feel bad. She knew her mother was a criminal, but realized she wasn’t evil. She looked at Jack, and Jack at them. The group gave a embrace before the card arrived. This moment was interrupted when officers were running towards them. Melanie, and Jack were ready to fight, but their mother shook her head, “Go” she told them.
Melanie put back on her mask, then hopped on the card. Jack followed, staying close to his sister's side. The two looked at their mother, and uncle, who laid a hand out as a goodbye before being put in handcuffs again. Melanie used this opportunity to fly off, so they wouldn’t get caught. Her, and her brother mourned their family, but was confident everything was going to be alright. Their mother, and uncle sacrificed themselves so they could escape. They would honor that by leaving, and never coming back.

Batman was in the prison, helping the guards survive. The criminals of Blackgate jumped on top of him, causing his jets to move up before going in, knocking them out. The officers nodded in approval. He would then fly away, trying to find where Hush is located. First he had to finish freeing the other police officers. He brought a vent, climbing his way through. That is when he heard a sound. Guards were being held hostage by a group of criminals that weren’t affiliated with Hush.
Batman would open the vent, slowly getting in without being caught. He then switched his suit to stealth mode. He performed a silent takedown on one of the criminals before grappling on a ledge. He waits for one of the criminals to find his friend before flying I’ve, kicking him to the ground. Unfortunately the other criminals hear the guy yell. This causes one of them to stay closer to the three captives. Batman waits for the two to run over before knocking one to the growing, and knocking the other with a rope that ties them up. On the bridge there was another inmate that paced around with his gun in the air, not sure where to go. Batman snuck. Sound, and performed another take down.
The final inmate was close to his captives. He grabbed one, “I will kill him I swear!” he continued to look, but no sign of Batman, “Where are you!”
He uncloaked himself, and grabbed the inmate from behind, putting him to sleep. Batman then would turn his attention towards the captives, freeing them.
“Thanks for saving Batman” one of the officers said to him.
“Looking for a guy with bandages, goes by the name Hush” they shook their heads not knowing. Batman sighed, “Alright, Gordon is rounding the other officers. Go find them” the three left right away, leaving him alone.
Batman walked to the exit behind him, and walked through the halls. This place was like a maze. He felt like he was going in circles. He stopped to see an inmate was on the ground. He checked his pulse to see the inmate was dead, the. that looking up there was an arrow shape. Batman could tell it was blood. He went to follow it. Tried contacting Bruce, but communication was being jammed from the building's assault.
The trail took him to the end of the hall. It was completely silent, just him. He was ready to come back. Before he could turn back Batman saw a shadow behind him. He turned around to be met with an electric net.
Batman fell on the ground in shock. He tried to break out, but he would hurt more. Hush came out, but when he did there were no bandages. Just him, the face of Tim Drake, and the gun that shot the net.
“Hello Batman”

Chapter Text

Batman was struggling, as the net kept on shocking him, keeping him stuck. He looked up to see the scared man stepping out of the shadows with a weapon he stole. He scowled, “What’s wrong with no bandages?” Batman asked
“I have no need to hide anymore Batman or should I say Terry McGuiness”
Batman’s eyes widened, as his identity was discovered. He was speechless, “How do you know my identity? Let me guess the Stalker?”
The clone of Tim Drake shook his head, “No I discovered it long ago, I simply hired him to kill you. I was wrong. You see McGuiness we are alike”
This almost made Batman laugh, “No we ain’t”
“We are. We both want what’s best for this city. I could see it in your eyes. It’s a lot like his. A drive to save this city whatever it takes. I want you to join me”
This was shocking to Terry, “You wanted to kill me” he remarked.
“I did, but seeing your efforts go into now I want you to join me” Hush said.
Batman in the mask he almost wanted to laugh, but he could tell he was telling the truth, “Sorry, but rather not team up with a psychopath”
“Not even to rid this city of crime for good? Think about your parents. You were orphaned because your dad got involved with the wrong people. What if we can prevent that? The only way to stop crime is to end it for good”
Terry had thought about it. He missed his parents. Also knew it was wrong what Hush was doing. He turned his head at him, “They wouldn’t want me to be a killer. My answer is no, I will never join you”
Hush sighed, as he pulled his gun, “Then I guess I have to kill you”
Batman used the blades attached to his suit to cut through his bindings. He would then proceed to punch Hush in the face. The two would begin to fight each other. Batman knocked both guns out of the enemy's hand before kicking him to the ground. He then threw a punch at Hush, but he ended up catching it, twisting Batman’s arm. Batman would fall on a knee before using his jets to turn, and hit Hush in the jaw.
Hush then would pull his gun from the floor. Instead of aiming it at his enemy his target was the air vent above. He pulled the trigger, causing air to blow on Batman. He would then use this opportunity to run away.
Batman would run after him only to be stopped by more of the Hush cult. They would start to shoot at him, but Batman would have the armor attached to the suit protect him from the bullets. He would then throw smoke applets onto one of the members before tackling him. He would then proceed to take down the other two. Reinforcements would fire their guns, but the bullets missed. Batman threw an electric batarang that shocked the shooter. He would then run to the other room fighting off the remaking cult members in his way. He would open the door to see the elevator go up. He flew on his jets, landing on top. Opening the window to find no one was in there. The wire ended up getting cut though, causing the elevator to collapse. Batman glided on time before landing on the ground above. After getting up, he would encounter the members of the cult, he would follow the trail, as he fought his way through.
The closer he got the less people he encountered. He started to climb the steps of the latter. There Batman climbed with determination. Exhausted, but he would climb his way up with his will. He then reached the top. He sat down for a minute. Trying to get in touch with Bruce again, but still no answer. He was on his own. Terry stood up before continuing.
hoping Hush was behind the door. His hand tighter on the handle before twisting it.
Batman rushed himself outside. He was on the roof, but no Hush. He looked around, but couldn’t see him. By the time he turned around, Hush kicked him to the ground. Batman stood up and tried to throw a punch, but Hush dodged putting him in a headlock. Batman was stuck, couldn't breath.
“I have you a chance, now you leave me with no choice McGuiness. This is on you!” he said, squeezing harder, making it difficult for his enemy to move.
“LET HIM GO” a voice yelled.
The two looked behind them to see Barbara pointing a gun with her one good arm.
Hush looked at her with a grin. Upon seeing his Face, Barbara lowered her weapon in shock, “Tim?” she said weekley. He was young, as she remembered. She didn’t even acknowledge the scars on his face.
“Gordon he is not Drake. Thats a clone!” Batman said struggling before Hush threw him on the ground, then knocked him out after punching him on the head. He would turn his attention to Commissioner Gordon. She raised her blaster at him again, but couldn’t bring herself to fire at him. She lowered it, just staring at the clone of her friend. Hush stared at her before making a sinister grin. He used his hand to knock Gordon to the ground, then stepped forward to put his hands around her neck, squeezing it.
“You are a fool, letting these scum run the city. I am the superior version of your friend, and now you are going to die looking at his face!” Hush yelled, as he squeezed harder. Barbara could barely breathe. She could feel her eyes shutting, but she opened it back up, as she fell on the ground gasping for air. She got up to see what happened. Batman had used the strength he had to tackle Hush out of the building. Barbara quickly recollected herself before running to the edge, where she remained shocked.
Batman was on the fence. His leg penetrated one of the blades. Hush was on the ground, not moving. Batman struggled, as he got himself off the fence, landing on the lower ground. He stood up, struggling to move, but he could stand. He limped over to Hush. He was alive, but Batman could immediately tell his neck was broken, which is why he wasn’t able to get up.
Hush looked at him, but instead of being angry, he just smiled. All Batman could do is give him a sympathetic look, “I am going to get you help” he stated.
Hush didn’t have to nod his head knowing he would refuse, “I’m already dead, but that's okay. When I am gone my legacy will carry on. The people of this city will see that I am right” before Batman could say anything or stop him, Hush had already forced his head against the wall, breaking his neck. Blood came out of his mouth, as he smiled.

Chapter Text

Batman was sitting in the back of the ambulance, getting his leg bandaged up. The officers that took back the facility wanted to arrest him, but Barbara had spoken on his behalf, knowing that he had saved her. She also had the body of Hush taken away. Not wanting anyone to see the face. Outside Neo-Gotham was also safe. Batwing, and Mary had stopped the chaos that was going on there before they came to Blackgate to help.
After getting medical attention, Batman looked up seeing the Commissioner was right there.
“Thanks for saving tonight kid” she said.
Batman stood up much better now, “Sorry, you had to see that”
“Its alright. We already knew the imposter was a clone, but I didn’t expect it to be Tim”
“So what happens to the body now?”
“Nothing, I am going to have it burned. The face of my friend doesn’t need to be public” Barbara stated
“Well at least the Hush cult got stopped thanks to Batwing, he, and Mary were able to take care of the rest, but I’m sure there are inmates who had gotten away” Batman with a bit of regret in his voice said that he couldn’t do anything about it.
“Don’t worry we will catch them” Barbara assured him.
“You sure?” Batman wanted to stay, but he finally heard a voice in his head talking. Bruce was communicating with him through the cave.
“Barbara got me up to speed. Nothing more you could do here. Just come back to the cave”
Batman gave a grin, “Good to hear from you to Bruce” he let out a chuckle before calling for the batmobile to pick him up. He then looked at Barbara, “Later Commissioner” he said in his Batman voice.
“Later kid, I have work to do anyways”
Batman hopped in his vehicle before leaving Blackgate. He laid back in his seat knowing that it was over.
Terry had gotten through the cave, taking off his mask, and gloves. He sat back down next to the case of suits. As he took a deep breath, he stood back up when Bruce appeared in front of him. Luke also appeared in the cave. Mary was already back at the hospital by Dicks side.
“Bruce” Terry said.
“You did well. Thanks to you guys Barbara was able to take back Blackgate. The officers who associate themselves with the Hush cult have been arrested, and will face charges” Bruce said. His mind is only on the mission.
“But I couldn’t stop Hush from killing himself” Terry said looking down with disappointment.
“Not your fault. You did your best. You have done well Batman” Bruce looked at Terry with a smile. This shocked Luke even.
“What about Ten. Wasn’t she with you?” Luke asked Terry, who had forgotten all about Melanie.
Terry started to get his mask. He continued suiting up.
“You should rest Terry. You have done enough tonight. If its just her then she is no threat to the city right now”
“I have to make sure she is alright”
Terry was about to leave anyway, but Luke stopped him by standing in his way, “I checked with Barbara already. The Walkers are back in lock up. Ten, and her brother are the only ones missing, so she survived”
Before Terry could say anything Bruce handed him something. It was a card, “This was found on the porch of my doorstep”
Terry looked at the card, and almost chuckled. He knew what this was.
Stay out of trouble-Melanie
Terry sighed with almost a laugh, he knew she didn’t want to be found, but he could take comfort knowing she was alright. Bruce reminded her she was a criminal though, which bothered him. He would take off his suit before going back to bed. Once he got up, Terry would lie down in his bed. He didn’t even know how late it was. Having already done a last check around the city everything was fine. The remaining members of Hush were already split, so he would find them another day. Next to his stand was a picture of him, and his parents. He looked at it, reminding himself how much he misses them. He would look closely at the photo. It was when he was a kid, he, and his parents had gone to the zoo. Terry gave a faint smile, almost wanting to shed a tear, but didn’t. He did however look closely at the photo. Nearly two years later he still remembers what they look like. That is when he looked at the photo of himself. He looked so different from his parents in terms of their features. He had their eyes, but not their looks. This would then jog his memory. He was told he was compatible with Bruce when he had to get his kidney replaced. He then recalled what Hush had told him when he, and Bruce had the same eyes. Terry laid back looking at the ceiling. He wanted to know what was going on.

Chapter Text

Melanie, and her brother had arrived home. She got off her flying card after it nearly ran out of juice. She knew that would be the last time she would use it as transportation.
“I can’t believe you would risk our freedom for that one guy” Jack told her. Melanie hit his arm jokenly. The two were walking into his home. Jack was about to make his way towards the door to open it when he saw the handle was open. Melanie grabbed his arm, bringing him back. She would then bring him into the bush to hide.
“Aye what's the deal?!” he sounded angry.
Melane shushed him, pointing out the window broken. Then a man in a suit came out. He had a gun. There were more men behind him. They turned around, and closed the door. Jack wanted to confront them. Clearly angry that a mob had broken into their home, but Melanie pulled his arm, and stopped him from rushing in with fear that her brother might be killed. The two would come up with a plan before making their move.
Ten looked at her hand. She didn’t have much in her artillery. She grabbed a card and placed it on the doorstep. Once one of the intruders steps outside he looks at a card, causing him to fall after coughing from the gas. The intruder became unconscious, and Jack used this opportunity to run inside his home before finding a place to hide. Melanie used this distraction to jump on the tree, and hopped into a window.
The intruders had their guns ready. Seeing one of their own unconscious, they realized there were people here. Each of them went through the Walker home to take apart anything that was in their way that they hadn’t already touched, finding anything that may be of use.
Jack had watched this from the shadows. He waited for everyone’s back to turn before making a run for it. He made his way upstairs. Ten had already taken care of the intruders upstairs. Jack seeing them unconscious, wanted to kill them for breaking into their home, but Melanie stopped him. Not wanting to be caught, Jack didn’t say a word. Instead he followed Melanie, they went down the hall to their parents room. Slowly opening the door so they wouldn’t be caught, the siblings went in before closing it. They looked at their room to see them filled with all things the siblings know are stolen. This made Melanie even more disgusted. She then turned over to her mother's bedside. Removing her mask she glanced at the necklace with her blue eyes. She then figured out what was going on.
Melanie took it from the desk, and showed Jack, “I had encountered a man named Rubin Thorn. Apparently this is why he has a bad history with our family”
“You have got to be joking” he took it from his sisters hand to observe it. He looked almost surprised like it was familiar.
“What is it?” Melanie asked.
“Nothing. I just remember father giving it to mother then leaving with us. Your we three at the time”
“Well we need to get these creeps out of our house” Melanie stated.
Jack went over to the closet. He opened it to see it was a room of weapons and artillery. Jack took two small swords from the rack, flexing them. Melanie picked up a deck of cards putting it into the side of her pocket. Jack also changed into his suit he would wear while stealing from his parents. When they were ready they had planned to retake their home.
One of the intruders stepped upstairs. They pointed their gun to see bodies on the ground, but when he looked toward Jack stepped forward to kick him back. This alerted the other intruders. Ten stepped forward kicking one guy into another. She then threw a card in the whole of the gun causing it to explode.
There was one intruder left. He stood by alone against the two. He was shaking with fear. Quickly he aimed his weapon at Melanie, but Jack threw his small blade into the shoulder. The guy screamed as he fell to the ground. Jack then went forward, pressing his foot into the wound of the intruder. He gave him a sinister up before it turned to anger, “You think you could break into our house, and try to murder my sister?” he pressed harder on the wound until Melanie put her hand on his shoulder, “Jack just stop it’s okay”
A reluctant Jack took his foot off the intruder before grabbing him by the collar, and pinning him to the wall. The intruder was begging for his life.
“Tell us what you are doing here in our home” Melanie folded her arms.
“Thorne. Rubin Thorne. He wanted payback for what you did in his home. He hired us to kill you and take back the necklace”
Jack looked at Melanie who had a look of guilt on her face. She signed, “Let him go”
Jack seemed shocked, but he did it anyway. The intruder had ran out the door, never to look back.
“What’s the deal? It’s our mothers” Jack stated, but Melanie shook her head, as she took off her mask.
“Because that necklace originally belonged to his mother. Don’t you see we always stole and look where it ended up. You went to jail. Our parents and uncle are in jail. We have no future”
“Well what do you want to do then?” Jack asked her.
Melanie looked around her. This wonderful home. These nice things, they were stolen. She looked back at her brother knowing he wouldn’t be happy, “We do the right thing”
Jack knew what that meant. He liked this lifestyle. However he knew it was the right thing. All he wanted was to have a normal life. The two would go over the plan. They decided to carry the bodies of the intruders out. Keep them tied to one of the trees. They then would round up all the expensive items that they stole in a bag. It was a lot, but they made sure to use a big bag.
The two Walker Siblings would change into civilian clothes. Melanie held on to the ruby necklace before putting it into her leather jacket. Jack who had a touch set looked at the flames, and at the house they lived in for the past years. Melanie put a hand over his shoulder. The two nodded, as they had the house burned to the ground. The Walker home that belonged to their family for generations were now getting burned to the ground. They tossed their costumes to the ground. Jack walked away, but Melanie didn’t. She removed the necklace she had since she was a girl off her neck before throwing it in with everything else. When she was done, she would leave with her brother.

The two found themselves at Thornes residence. Jack looked at his sister already knowing it was a bad idea, but they knew it was their best chance to get out of the city. Jack had kept a small sword in his pocket just in case. The two stepped out going to the gate. Guess who watched over the home had surrounded them.
“We are here to see Rubin Thorne” Melanie told the guards, waving the bag of jewels and goods in the air. The guards took the bag, and brought the siblings inside.
Thorne was sitting by the fire, keeping up with the news of the carnage that went through the night. He heard a knock, turning around. This almost pleased him not expecting who he is seeing right now.
This gave Thorne a big smile on his face, as he stood up, “I wasn’t expecting you. You must be Jack. Glad to meet you again”
Jack doesn't say a word. He looked at Melanie, then the bag.
“They turned themselves in willingly along with this bag”
Thorne took the bag, looking at it then at the Walkers, “Why would you do this?” asking curious.
“Because we want out. These are the most expensive riches in all of Neo-Gotham. Take them, we only ask you to let us go with new lives to start over” Melanie stated.
Rubin scratched his chin thinking about it. He looked inside the bag seeing that she was telling the truth. He then looked back at her, “Interesting offer, but there is something that is still missing”
Melanie reached for something in her pocket. The guard was getting ready to pull out his gun until Thorne stopped him. He saw, as his eyes widened. Melanie pulled out the necklace from her pocket, “This is yours right? Take it” she slowly walked up to him. Thorne took it from her hand. He looked at it before giving a smile that made him want to shed a tear, but didn’t, as that wasn’t who he was. He waved his hands, as a sign to his men to lower their arms. He would then face the Walkers, “Very well. You could have came here seeking revenge, but instead you gave me back what is mine. I consider myself a ruthless man, but not like what my father was. I will let you go. Give you money, new identities, however I don’t want to see you in this city again do you understand?”
Melanie, and Jack looked at each other. The two wanting to get out of their parents' shadow shook their heads.
Thorne would place the ruby necklace on the stand of his desk. He then had his bag turn, “Give them what I promised, so they can leave my sight” he told one of his men.

After waiting some time the siblings got what they were promised. New identification, and enough money to get out of the city. The two smiled at each other, as they embraced themselves. Thorne stepped outside to see them off.
“Remember don’t come back” he told them
“Don’t worry we don’t plan to” Jack said, as he headed for the motorcycle. Melanie was about to leave before she turned back, “Thank you, and I’m sorry for the trouble my family caused. From now on the Royal Flush Gang is dead” she stated. Without hearing Thornes response she turned back. Finally free.

Chapter Text

Terry had found himself at the Walker home. The Commissioner had tipped him off early in the morning when she found out the home was burned to the ground. She integrated the suspects, but they didn’t see the body. Terry had rushed over soon after he revived the call. Only thing he found was a pile of rubble. The only thing that was found in the ruckage was a burned picture and the Walker family. On his left were burnt costumes. He immediately deduced it was Ten, and Jacks. Terry knew what this meant, he looked down one last time, seeing there was something gold in the rubble. He removed it to find it was her necklace she told him about. Terry thought of her, and regretted the things he said, but before he could think of anything else, his phone rang. Terry looked at it closer. The ID said unknown. He would pick it up to answer, “Hello?” he said sternly.
“Well is that a way to talk to a lady?” a familiar voice told him.
Terry was almost surprised, being caught off guard by the voice, “Melanie?” before he could say any words she stopped him.
“I see you already got my guard?” she told him.
“I did, but where are you? The Commissioner told me your home was destroyed. I wasn’t sure what happened to you”
“I left Neo-Gotham. It’s not important right now, but I left with my brother. We are starting new lives” she told him.
Terry looked away from the home, as he continued to talk to her, “Listen Melanie I want you to know that I was never going to turn you over. I was mad, but I still care about you”
“I know Terry, but I’m not calling to talk about that. I don’t plan to come back again, but I do want to offer to meet you. I will send you the address and perhaps you could join us?”
Terry was surprised by this despite his treatment of her. He had wondered with being a hero what his life would be like if he had a family. He wanted to say yes, but he knew deep down this was his home.
He had to give her a response, so he made his decision, “I’m sorry Melanie, but this place is my home”
Melanie wasn’t phased by this at all. She answered calmly, “Then this is a goodbye. Take care Terry”
“You to Melanie. Good luck to both of you”
The phone would then hang up. Terry felt disappointed. So many things unsaid, but he is happy that she is starting over. He looked at the necklace before taking it with him. He would walk over to his motorcycle. Terry had planned to meet up with everyone at Blackgate, but he received another phone call. He picked it up to see it was Neo-Gotham General. This made him confused why the hospital was calling him. However Terry answered, “Hello?”
“Mr. McGuiness, How are you? I got the results from that DNA test you requested. I know you wanted this kept private, but you can pick it up whenever you are ready”
Terry had forgotten he had requested the results with everything going on. He had asked for it right before the procedure started. With everything going on he had forgotten. The doctor called for his name again, Terry who had zoned out answered, “Yeah I will be over there” he answered before hanging up. Terry could feel his heart clutch like he had a bad feeling, but he would turn to the hospital to get his answers, he had only hoped it would be good news.

At Blackgate the body of Tim Drake's clone was on the table. Besides the corpse were Barbara with Luke, Bruce, and Dick who had stepped out of the hospital with Mary who was also there. The three stood mourning their friend again despite not being the real Tim Drake. They watched as the body was brought into the fire. The corpse is burning, as the group looked on.
“Even though it wasn’t really him. Tim, our friend will always be remembered” Dick remarked, breaking the silence, as he refuses to forgot his friend. He looked at Bruce who didn’t say any words. He was disgusted by the clone. Instead turning his back on it.
“You alright Luke?” Dick asked him.
“Terry didn’t come” Luke being the first one to notice.
“He’s probably busy. Let the kid rest after all he did save the city” Dick patted him on the back. Luke seemed bothered by it. He looked at Bruce who had his back turned before he could say anything Bruce cut him off, “How’s your leg” he asked Dick whose leg was bandaged and on crutches.
“Doctors said that the leg will heal, but the bone will stay fractured. Short notice my days at the circus are over”
“I’m sorry Dick” Luke said knowing how acrobatic his friend use to be.
“It’s alright my time is over. The bat family will have their own acrobatic”
Mary was confused looking at her parents who in turn looked at her. Barbara came closer to Dick who brought himself over to his daughter, “Mary, your mother and I have been talking. We think it’s time the team has their own Grayson again”
Mary knew what her father was talking about, “Me?” still confused.
Her father continued,”You not only saved me, and Luke, but you proved herself over and over again which is why you should stay in Neo-Gotham and help our family”
Mary looked at her mother who also spoke, “You still need training”
“Which is why I’ll be sticking around to make sure of that. As well as other things” Dick looked at Barbara as she had her hand on his shoulder. Mary noticed the two were smiling at each other for the first time in a long time.
“You and mom are getting back together?” she asked.
“Woah, I wouldn't go there yet. We are still working things out, but maybe over time we can rekindle things” the two looked at each other.
“Welcome to the team” Luke said with encouragement.
Mary looked at Bruce who turned to face her. His two hands on his Cain, he nodded his head as approval.

At the hospital Terry met the doctor in his office. He waited by the door. The Socorro was doing paper work when he saw Terry, “Mr. McGuiness, come in”
Terry walked in before taking a seat. He looked at the small drive, he then looked at the doctor.
“Don’t worry no one saw this, not even myself. My patient's info is confidential, but I will say whatever reason you have for keeping it a secret I hope you find what you are looking for.
“I will thank you” Terry said before leaving. He went outside on his motorcycle.. his phone was ringing. When he picked it up it was Bruce calling, but Terry declined it. He couldn’t trust him with this information, so he rode to the University of Gotham.
Terry found himself in the library in the back room not wanting anyone to see or how he was going to react. He pulled up one of the bowed laptops before putting the drive in. He felt anxious, as it loaded slowly. He waited and waited, wanting to know the data on the drive. He sat back, waiting for results. For him it was worse than taking a test. Just as he was getting annoyed, the data Finished loading.
Terry sat forward with relief, but with each passing moment he had a bad feeling about this. He moved his mouse to click the results. He forcefully stood up, giving it his best not to throw an outburst or yell. The results shocked him. His whole life was a lie.
The data matches his mother Mary, but it doesn’t match Warren McGuiness. It matches Bruce Wayne.
Warren McGuiness isn’t Terry's father it’s Bruce Wayne.

Chapter Text

Terry didn’t go home that night.  His thoughts were mixed.  Deep down he always knew something was wrong, but he wasn’t expecting this.  He had to get answers so he went to Cadmus for answers.  He had recalled a folder that had Batman's name on it.  He wanted to check it.

He went into the unguarded facility with his flashlight on.  It was like no one was even here.  Terry retracted his steps before he went to rescue Dick.  In hopes that the file would be here.  Terry searched the whole room, using the light to help him ,but there was no file with what he was looking for.  This caused him to search the other rooms in the building, and would search again, but what felt like hours, he couldn’t find anything.  He tried searching the room again, looking at every file, but nothing.  This caused him to be frustrated.  It was like the file wasn’t even there

“Damn it!” Terry yelled.  He threw his flashlight across the room causing it to break.

He saw this causing him to sigh.  Leaning his back against the wall he pounders what he should do.  There was only one option.  He had to leave and confront Bruce, blaming him for his life.  He stood up, giving the place one last look before going back to his motorcycle.

Terry got on his transportation vehicle.  When he took out his phone, he saw that he missed several calls from Bruce.  Terry also saw Luke try calling him as well.  Figuring that Bruce is the one that asked him to call.  Terry didn’t care, he put his phone in his pocket before driving off.  As he was on the road, he couldn’t stop thinking about how angry he was.  Not only was his life a lie, but the life he had right now was a lie.  This only made him want to find answers more.  He tightened his grip on the handle before stomping his gas to drive.

He saw Wayne Manor from a distance.  Terry sped up the hi before stomping his foot on the break.  Terry made sure to slam the door on his way in, but no one heard him, which only meant they were in the cave.  Terry forced his way in, punching the clock before it opened, leaving a hole where the time arrows are.  He didn’t care however instead he marched his way downstairs.

The steps downstairs could be heard loud enough that Bruce turned around in his seat without moving.  Dick, and Luke by his side turned around.  Each of them were confused when Terry got down he looked angry.  His direction first pointed towards Bruce, “How could you do this Bruce!” Bruce said nothing but sit back in his seat.

“What are you talking about?” Dick turned to Terry.  Would move to calm him if he could walk.

Terry took the drive out of his pocket, sliding it on the ground.  Luke bent down to pick it up, “What is this?” 

“More things that Bruce had stolen from me” 

“When did you find out?” Bruce asked him, indicating he already knew what he was talking about.

“You won’t even deny it”

“Deny what?” Dick was still confused.  

“Should I tell them or should you?!” Terry had a hard time controlling his anger like he usually dos when he is emotional.

Bruce stayed silent.  All he did was stare at the young man, which infuriated him.

“WARREN MCGUINESS ISN’T REALLY MY FATHER.  HE IS” Terry found himself pointing at Bruce from his distance..

Bruce just sat back, and continued to say nothing.  Dick looked at him, “Is this true Bruce?”  Bruce didn’t acknowledge him, instead he faced Terry, “What do you want?”

“I want the truth” 

“Sounds like you already do”

This sparked a fury in Terry, “You are so arrogant that you don’t even think the world can go on without you”

“Or someone like me.  It’s fact, the world needs a Batman”

Everyone in the room looked at Bruce, then at Terry who had nothing but betrayal in his eye.  He turned around, punching the glass that contained his suitcase causing it to break.  He then looked back at Bruce, “You know what, find another replacement.  I am done”

Without another word Terry stood up. After grabbing his things, he left not looking back.  It was over.  He was Batman no more.

Chapter Text

The others at the cave stayed silent.  Dick looked at Luke, and Bruce, the two didn’t say a word.  He then looked back at Terry leaving already knowing he had left the mansion.  Luke looked at Bruce who had already turned his chair.  Dick looked at Luke who seemed to already have the face of guilt all over his face.  The middle aged man looked older from how he was looking.

“You already knew did you?” Dick asked Luke.

“Drop it” Bruce said, but Dick pressed on.

“Luke” 

Luke sighed, “I knew after he did” pointing at Bruce.

Dick raised his eyebrow, “Did you actually mess with his DNA?”

“Do you really think that about me?” Bruce asked Dick, turning to face him.

“You always have some motivation Bruce.  Is it true?” he asked him again.

“No.  I had my suspensions, but didn’t find out till he moved here”

This made Dick even more curious and mad, “Then why did you make him believe you had something to do with it?”

 “Would he have believed it?  

“He maybe would have listened” 

“It doesn’t matter.  If the genetics are true then he is my son, which means my son should live his life in peace.  This city will have to go on without Batman.  I thought it didn’t, but after seeing Terry tonight, I realize thats going to have to be the case”

Dick sighed, as this was getting nowhere.  He looked at Luke who he was disappointed with, then at Bruce, “You know Bruce, you don’t have many years left.  You should at least not push the people important in your life out” 

Nothing more could be said.  He turned his back at the two and walked himself out.  Bruce also asked Fox to be left alone, as he stays in the cave lost in his thoughts.

Terry had just gotten out of class.  He found himself walking the University alone,  tired with not being able to sleep last night.  Terry could feel the bags u see his eyes.  He almost regretted not taking Melanie’s offer, but then he wouldn’t learn that his life was a lie.  The man he thought was his father wasn’t really by genetics.  It didn’t matter to him anymore.  He was done with Bruce, his biological father.  It’s still confusing for him, but he is done with everything else.  It was time to leave it all behind.  Terry looked at the crowds of people around him before he continued walking off, that was until he heard a familiar voice try to speak to him.

“Terry” 

Terry looked to see who it was.  Dana was there alone.  He walked forward to meet her. 

She looked at his face, “Look like you didn’t sleep”

“ Terry didn’t respond, but  noticed she was alone, he spoke, “Where Rick?”

“We broke up.  The two of us agreed we aren’t right for each other.  That and he had gotten back with his ex already, but doesn’t matter.  What about you?  How’s things with Melanie?”

“We broke things off as well.  Wasn’t working out” he told her.

“Can we talk?” she asked.

Terry smiled for the first time since last night, as the two walked campus together to find a place alone.  They went to a tree where no one was there.  

“I’m sorry Terry.  I was selfish.  You went through so much I didn’t even think to understand how you were feeling, but it does feel like you were keeping a secret about your bruises, and cuts I would see on you.  I just want to know more about what's going on.  I didn’t stop to think how you felt”

Terry looked away, he knew she had the right to feel the way she felt, but the time of lying to her was over, “You were right to worry.  I haven’t been honest with you.  I will tell you everything but not here.  I’m staying at a motel right now.  I don’t work for Mr. Wayne anymore.  It’s a long story, but meet me for dinner, and we will go back there later.  I will explain everything”

Dana was surprised, but agreed.

The two would later meet at where he was staying after going out to dinner.  It was at Neo-Gothams pier, where they had their first date.  Dana wore a black dress, and Terry had a button down on, leaving all his nice clothes at the mansion.  The two surpsily had a good time.  He would then walk with her on the bridge.  Each of them is happy to be in their company.  The two looked at the water, being closer to each other. 

Terry broke the short silence, “You no this is nice.  After everything that has happened up until now its nice to have some down time with nothing to worry about”

“Yeah I know its hard to believe whats happened in this city.  I was kidnapped, but Batman rescued me twice”

Terry looked away at the water.  Dana noticed something was wrong, but he looked back at her, “There is something I need to show you.  Will you come with me?” he laid out a hand.  Dana took it, bringing her to his motorcycle.

 They arrived by the motel.  Terry took her in, walking upstairs to his place where it was set up nicely.  She looked around to see how small it was.

 “It’s temporary.  I’m going to find an apartment in a few days” Terry assured her, looking out the window.

“What happened that you left?” Dana asked.

Terry still facing the window before facing her, “Long story, but not important now” he handed her apology flowers, and a small box.  She was curious what it was.  She looked at him, who looked back at her, “Open it.  It’s the reason why I have been so distant”

Dana wasn’t sure but opened it anyway.  Putting the flowers down, and undoing the wrap inside, she was surprised to see a batarang was sitting in the box.  She took it from where it was.  Observing it before looking back at him.

“I am Batman or I was.  I’m leaving that life behind.  I would like a fresh start with you if you’ll give me another chance?” Terry said.  

Dana didn’t say anything.  She was just shocked.  She would never guess Terry McGuiness was Batman.  The person that saved her was him.  

The two stared at each other for moments not sure what to say.  They were just ready to move on.  From their past, but most importantly moving on from the life of a crime fighter.  This is where Batman died.