The Bat And The Spider

by Somethingspecial34

Summary:

Time keeps moving, people keep changing for the better or worse. But compare to them, the bat and the spider? They know things will never always be easy. And yet they have to keep pushing, keep moving forward, whether together, by themselves, or with the rest of the scattered bat family that is trying to pick up the pieces to be whole once more.

Chapter 1

To All that are new, and or returning. Welcome!

For those that don't know, this story went through a bit of rewrite. Not a lot really change, but to some who read this story before, you'll find something new to like about the story as it mad me fell back in love with the story I've been writing for a whole year now off and on.

I'll go more in depth to what's gonna happen moving forward once everyone, some, or whoever make it up to the latest chapter. Hope you all enjoy the story I try time and time again to write with care and love for the character's that deserve a whole lot more than what they're receiving nowadays.

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I: Not what it used to be

October 9th

Rain let loose over the gothic city known as Gotham City. It drench the street's, buildings, walk sign, traffic signs, cars and people to whoever was walking in the midnight hour. Because of the rain and time, most usually would be indoors by this to sleep for the next day. Yet there were those who can't always go to sleep.

Such as Gotham's finest.

A woman approaches the stairs of the apartment building with an officer near her. Moving up together, she didn't wear the usual uniform that a Gotham police officer would wear; such as brown coat, white shirt underneath with blue tie, jeans, boots on, and a green British cap she wore on the top of her head, "What we got Martin?" She asked.

"Better if I show you commissioner," he simply said, one that got her eyebrow quirk at how quick and shaky his voice was.

'Must be one of those murders..' the commissioner thought to herself. Gotham always had something bad going on, and sometimes the likes of Gotham finest can't always be there to stop it from happening. While that can be said for other city, Gotham was different in that regard, 'No matter how much changes, you can't take away the dark corners that Gotham presented to us for so long, and its why we needed people who can work outside the law, and take the law into their own hands to keep us safe.'

The commissioner believes that is what it took to keep the evil away from the innocent. And even if the stakes get high, the only way to keep peace is to stay on the path of good, and keep moving forward till the innocent are safe.

There were two police officers guarding a particular door in the middle of the hallway, one was wiping his mouth with a napkin while the other had an uncomfortable look on his face as he held his hands by his side. It was like the pair saw something terrible that eroded their stomach to vomit. Once they reached it, Martin open the door, "...Fuck."

The first thing that was bad was indeed the smell, both commissioner and the officer had to cover their nose. The commissioner immediately moved through the crime scene, careful not to step on anything that is evidence base, fitted on some gloves, and opened the window in the kitchen. The second was the amount of dead bodies that took over the small apartment; one was lying on the floor near the entrance, two laying flatly on the chair near the table, one head jerked back on the chair with it hanging loosely as if its about to fall off, and the other half of his body was slumped on the table, and finally, another being hanged on top of a wooden ceiling fan. The commissioner also had a glimpse of two more dead in a bedroom, both were a man and women, half clothes on, and looked to be less grotesque in their murder.

What she took from all this was a massacre, dirty, and a hint of bloodlust that it wasn't an ordinary killing, "And this all just happened Martin?" She questioned, turning to Martin.

"Y-yeah," he closes the door behind him, it was smart not to attract any more attention than they already had, "A 911 call rang out saying a disturbance was going on. We checked it, even asked around the neighbors who bothered to answer. They all pointed to here, but it went quiet for sometime, and once we were able to unlock the door.." his eyes diverged from the captain, already knowing what happened next.

She looked around, using her small hat to scratch the top of her brown short hair. She noticed the one hanging from the fan was hacked to death on the back of his head, partially seeing the pinkness of his brain before being hanged. The two on the chair were oddly near each other, but they couldn't have been sitting there if the murderer was out right trying to kill them. Noticing both of how one body had its neck exposed, hand chomp off, and the other had both his ears hacked off, eyes plunge with a needle. It all looked to be so aggressive, like a vendetta of sorts, 'Almost like whoever killed them, they didn't stand a chance.'

He heard Martin gasp, pulling out his gun right at the window by the bedroom, and she knew who it was, "Beat us to it?" The Commissioner curiously asked without looking to see who it was.

The figure that came to the scene didn't say anything but nodded once Dewolff got a glimpse of the figure. It was clearly a woman under the costume she wore, what with her figure exemplifying it. Like the symbol on her deep ebony costume, her mask was related to a bat, having a sort of cowl being metallic while covering just about everything on her head, her arms wore gauntlet that had razor sharp edges by her elbows, the only ounce of color was her yellow utility belt and the edges of the bat symbol on her chest, "Give us the room Martin. I want you and the rest to keep watch outside. No one leaves the premises," commissioner ordered.

"Don't need to tell us twice commissioner Dewolff," he opened and closed the door behind him.

And so, the Bat and Dewolff had the room to themselves. Dewolff shook her head as she again look around the crime scene, "Fuck. Another one, this time larger."

"Brutal as the last," the Bat commented, walking near the commissioner, observing the scene once again with her arms crossed, "These ...Are known criminals. Only the women seemed.. To be clean," the Bat spoke, pausing in between sentences like it was difficult for her to speak properly.

Kneeling on the ground by the entrance, Dewolff noticed a tattoo of sorts that had the Russian flag by their broken leg, "Soviet Union type, KGbeast, most likely the hammer crew.. I thought they were long gone," she stood back up, "Could this murderer be a wannabe Red Hood since most of his killings are criminal related?"

The Bat shrugs, "Could be. Could be not. Doubt it. Not his sty…le….Dangerous all the same," she mentions as short as she could, and straight to the point.

Dewolff rubbed under her chin, little clueless as to where all this could point to the killer. Sadly, all there was in front of them was just a bloody scene left behind whoever this killer is,"True… Where's your partner at anyhow?" Dewolff questions the Bat upon directing her eye's onto her, "I know he's good with the science aspect to this stuff. Maybe he can get a few more clues we're missing before I report it in."

"Handling something... Up north. Otisburg, near botanical…Garden... Firefly related….Already have…What I need…For…Him to…Investi…Gate.."

"I thought Firefly was locked up last I checked?" her hands were placed by her waist while her eyebrow quivered, "Guess people like him just have a way of slipping under our nose when coming back to this city."

"Will be taken care...Of. Like always."

"I'll make sure to give my guys the head's up. I can give you more time to do some investigative work, but.."

The bat tilted her head, while Dewolff couldn't see her expression since her cowl darkened the parts that were important to see her expression, the small movement of her head was a sign of curiosity, "But?"

Dewolff let out a small sigh. If she hadn't been working with her for years, the whole Bat costume including those pitch blackness by her eyelids would make her just as uncomfortable as the murder itself, "GCPD has been having my ass with how much you and the Spider I keep letting around on these crime scenes. More precisely the other Commissioner, Michael Akin and people who have been following him since he was in politics."

"Also….Cause Gordon retired?" She brought up, curious if that was the real problem at hand.

Dewolff gestures her hand waving left and right, "Sort of. Without Gordon to back you guys up it complicates things. I don't have as much leeway as he does since I only got promoted a year ago. And with Akin also appointed not too long ago from me, the higher ups don't trust me to keep everyone in line. You know how much I like you guys, but I'm not Gordon to keep GCPD off you guys as a good portion of them don't really like vigilante's. They still feel useless with how much you all have helped this city."

A small grunt or groan can be heard from the Bat due to that statement Dewolff made, "Idiotic. We work together. Ego should be set aside," the Bat said, her tone being a bit annoyed. But it was hard to tell due to the mask covering the more underlying tone of her comment.

"God damn right. Have you found anything of interest to bag this guy? Anything at all?"

The Bat shook his head, "No. All bodies so far had family. They're alive... Away from Gotham," the Bat pointed to each and everyone's pocket. Dewolff made sure to dig in their pockets, wallet's, anything of value to check their family members.

Dewolff frowned when putting the photos on the table, "Don't recognize them, not even sure we have any of them on protection watch. Possibly they keep them away from businesses?"

"Possibly... Notice the date?"

Dewolff checked her phone, it was the 9th of October, "Columbus day. The last two murders were on holidays aswell," her eyes slightly widened when turning to the Bat, "Can't be Julian doing this? He's in blackgate."

"Someone who... Aspires to be him?" She counters with another question in mind.

"Could rule that one out," Dewolff sighed, the night already is getting to her and she could use a cigarette, "Captain Stacy used to be on a case similar to this, he always says that case was a rather long Halloween."

"We'll get them. We always do," the Bat said hopefully, also clapping her hand on the commissioner's shoulder as she approached to leave.

"The difference is," Cassandra crouch on the window and turn to see what else Dewolff wanted to talk about, "It's just you and the Spider. No Robin, no other Batgirl, no Nightwing nor that gung ho Red Hood and Huntress. And not even Batman. This is different from the other times because you... We," she corrected, "Had more to rely on."

The Bat for a moment looked away, knowing that Dewolff had a point. Time keeps moving, along with people changing...For better…Or for worse he and I…Know things…Won't be…Easy…And yet…We have to…Keep pushing…" The Bat heard sirens from a distance meaning she was needed somewhere else, "Justice will prevail. It must…"

The Bat leapt from the window, onto the next crime that she hopefully could prevent from becoming worse.

---

In a different part of Gotham, one that holds a place underneath a simple 99 cent store that has any cheap utilities a person wants. A dozen or so people; armed with guns, clad in either a business black and white suit, or a militarized suit equipped with a helmet, all monitoring someone who's chained up to a chair, "Fold," came from a woman who is playing cards with her partners.

"Bullshit."

"No fucking way."

"All mine," she said with glee, as she took each and every money they bet on.

"How long do we have to keep watch on her?" one of the players asked, pointing out the women who was, unconscious, strap to a chair, and kept on a tight watch by groups of people.

"Till iceman comes to the Kingpin terms. And even then, we got him watching our backs," the person near him gestured to an individual who sat near the woman chained up to the chair. The individual was a man beneath the mask and suit, part of his skin was shown and it was tatted up in third degree burn from both side of the head and shoulders that were exposed, he had what seem like machinery that resemble wings attach to his back, further making him look like a hornet along with his yellow helmet on, and in his hand was weapon he spent his own time tinkering that he was just testing out, letting flames lighten up the place, and give him a giggle at the sight of it.

"That guy…Always creeps me out," the winner of the game whispered, "Heard he used to be some hotshot that developed movies and got burned in one of the productions."

One of them snorted, lighting up a joint he just finished folding up, "Not from what I heard. Heard he burned himself because he likes fire too much."

"Isn't that one of the Flash villains?"

"Don't know," he passed the blunt to her when he finished inhaling and exhaling his share. She took it and did the same, just enough to start feeling the buzz, "And we shouldn't care... So long as we get paid, the world is moving."

"Is it even right to smoke that? What if something happens and we're too high to even use our guns?" Another player both asked and pointed out the possible circumstances.

Two other players looked at each other, looked at the joint, then crackled, "Just smoke the shit," he both eyed and groaned, muttering a curse word then taking the blunt from her, "Stressing out for what? We've been here for a good few days and I think we can go on a little more."

That's when the lights started flickering, everyone took notice before the lights went back to normal, "...Maybe it's nothing?"

"Oh no… It's something," the third degree burned villain said in a growling, booming tone through his mask. Its almost like he's constantly in pain and gasping for a bit of air even when he isn't talking, "Just gotta wait for it," his fingers went up, head tilting till the sound of bullets being shot at from upper level can be heard, "Guess they're here," he stood up, flamethrower at the ready, "ENOUGH FUCKING AROUND! EXPECT MORE THAN THE ICEMAN," everyone was at the ready, gun ready, amount of room to get some cover due to it resembling a large construction area mix into a garage format. Some armed the door with bomb's at the ready, and also adding trip mines, "TAKE ALL ACCOUNT FOR THE BAT AND THE SPIDER!" Some also had rocket launchers, grenade launcher's, everything essentially at the ready "IF WE FAILED, WE DON'T GET PAID."

"Got ya firefly!"

"On the double!"

"Bombs armed and ready to go!"

The gambler players were on the move, setting up their guns, "I told you. Fuck, I'm too high to even shoot!"

The women giggle, "Well then, you're a dead weight."

"Could've said no," the guy finished off the weed before putting it out, "Too late to back out."

"Ah fuck!"

"Also!" Firefly tapped the side of his helmet, "Turn off the lights. They want to use darkness, then we will too."

And so they did, just about everyone had their night goggles on, and they all waited for whoever was to come. At the moment, guns were being heard firing, along with screams, and the amount of times something blunt, heavy like, was putting them down. This only served to tense up some, either impatiently waiting to get the battle rolling with their fingers pressing gently on their trigger, or some were hyperventilating silently, sweating profusely.

All because whoever was coming, was someone not to be mess with.

Luckily for them, Firefly was a different breed. He stood up right by the women, waiting eagerly, "Come on. Come on…" He whispers to himself, egging for the action to start so he can burn someone to crisp.

And then the gun's stopped firing, the various screams started hollering out, and the elevator can be heard coming down to the lower level. More shots were fired, and another sound could be heard, the sound of heavy boots walking amongst the screams, and the sound of something freezing at the coldest temperature.

It stopped right at the door, with everyone having their guns and weapons pointing directly at the double doors. What no one noticed was a little spider robot surveying the area, crawling on the walls, using a mechanical web-like line to move about the room. But what Firefly and his crew noticed was a little ball entering the room thanks to the drone.

Immediately it imploded, freezing every trip, mines and bombs that were supposed to blow up the entrance. Instead now, the double doors were frozen and broken apart, smoke covered the entrance room, and the only thing anyone could see was a tall figure with red goggles illuminating through the smoke, "FIRE!"

Every gun was fired, it did nothing but only made the figure watch on from the fruitless attempts to kill him. Even the rocket launcher or grenade launcher's didn't do a thing, with it being frozen in midair before it could implode. The smoke slowly started clearing out, showcasing through the smoke being a man clad in a sort of cryo suit that kept his own head blue, resembling to being ice cold. The head was covered by a see-through helmet that not even the bullets made much of a dent, "Give… Me back…! MY WIFE!" He focused on the ones who had rocket launchers, using a two hand weaponize gun that ended up repulsing out a gust of cold air that froze both men and women from targeting him.

"NOT A CHANCE FREEZE!" Firefly shouted with glee as he took flight with his mechanical wings, he would aim his flamethrower at Freeze, firing just as freeze did.

It was harder for Freeze to motion his body around because of the suit, it gave Firefly the edge seeing as he flew right around Freeze when using his flamethrower. It caused Freeze to go off balance, "YOUR A FOOL TO BE ON YOUR OWN FREEZE!" He looked to some of his crew who were stumbling and moving to resupply themselves, "PICK UP A GODDAMN WEAPON AND PUT HIM DOWN ON HIS KNEES!" He shouted to anyone who had any sense to pick up what Firefly was doing.

But before anyone could do anything, two, three more balls went into the area, blowing up encompassing a group of people in webs. Firefly noticed, "Shit!" He flew around the area, stopping his assault on freeze, "COME OUT SPIDER!" He also noticed that the woman was no longer locked up, making him increasingly frustrated.

Freeze made sure to take advantage of anyone else who wasn't webbed up, freezing them and knocking them unconscious with the usage of his gun. Firefly couldn't focus on the hostage he had, he had to focus on what he could see, which was Freeze, "YAHHH!" He flew to Freeze again, firing a flamethrower that was being blocked by a sort of ice shield Freeze used with his arm.

Tanking it and jogging to a nearby wall to avoid more from Firefly assault, Freeze turned the dial of his gun to change how it would shoot. Instead of a gust of air being frozen, it ended up acting like an actual firearm, shooting out a sharp ice bullet at Firefly. The area was a blessing for Firefly since he was able to dodge without any trouble. And what he saw next, gave him more glee; through his night vision, he saw a figure moving fast into taking out each of the henchmen, like a speed demon moving in the dark with grace of an arachnid, and not stopping his movement, "SPIDER!"

The Spider-Man, clad in a red and black upper vest suit, black jeans, and boots to go with the unique fit, turned around and waved while knocking someone out with a kick to their chest without looking, "Firefly! When did you get back into town?!" He asked, avoiding him with a flip that he easily landed on top of him, "Thought you were living up in another prison far, far away!"

Firefly couldn't answer, with how strong this Spider-Man was. With ease, he ripped the engines out of his wings, sending him flying to a nearby wall and impacting it while he leapt off to handle the rest of the goons that were running scare. Firefly was still somehow conscious, getting up slowly and groggily as part of his mask was now torn up, and it revealed more of his third degree burns on his face. He got a glimpse at the pair at work; Freeze basically freezing each of the henchmen, not one of them standing a chance, and Spider-Man using his webs and agility to get the best out of them.

In the end, he knew it was pointless to fight those two. No amount of money was worth the trouble of trying tango with the two, but there was at least an attempt.

Firefly was going to make for a retreat, but what good would that do? There was an emergency escape room, but with how weak Firefly was, "Timmmmber!" Iin came the Spider to knock him back down with a swift attack that he did while swinging on his web.

This is when Freeze stopped him in his tracks, picking him up and throwing him to a wall where he then froze the left hand of his body directly to the wall, "AHHH!" Due to not only the impact but the sub zero temperature, Firefly felt that part of his body went numb in a matter of seconds. Freeze walked slowly up to him, pointing his weapon at him. Then, slowly freezing more parts of his body, causing his scream to intensify further, "...That is for kidnapping my wife," he stoically spoke with his voice radiating like a radio due to his round helmet he had on.

"Gah… It was…Nothing personal Freeze," he spoke in between his ragged breathing, and the utter pain he was in from the coldness that illuminated his body.

Freeze's gun was still charge, prep to fire once again, "I know.. Just business as they always say," he pressed his gun to the one place he hasn't frozen, the heart. One full charge would stop the heart compared to the rest of the other henchman he had frozen.

It was then he was stopped by Spider-Man, jumping beside him, and placed his hand on his gun, "He's not worth it. Let the police handle him, they got a squad on their way to shut this place down."

Freeze considers ignoring the warning, his cold eyes never leaving Firefly. After all, he kidnaps the only person he really loves, so why should he not grace him with death for it? He had done so in the past, for the women he loved, his Nora. Yet, he discharges the gun and walks away from the maniac who kidnapped his wife for business sake, "..Don't expect… You gonna get me out of this?" Firefly asked the spider who for a moment kept his eyes on Freeze.

Spider-Man then looked back at the villain, whatever body wasn't exposed to the cold was trembling as is, "You'll live, maybe get frostbite but his gun wasn't at max setting to shut down your body."

"Sounds like… BULLSHIT! I CAN'T FEEL ANYTHING!" He screamed with anguish and pain, "I thought you were the one that… Goes easy on us huh? What happened? You're not even wearing that black costume so what gives?"

Spider-Man stared at him for a moment before shrugging his shoulders, "Maybe I would, if you tell me who hired you? Bunch of people here had different varieties of clothing that makes it difficult to pinpoint in," he put one hand on the wall, and leaned closer to Firefly. The huge white lenses staring directly into part of Firefly's yellow chrome lens, "So, shake a leg for me would ya? And I'll do the same for you."

Firefly looked to be looking away from Spider-Man with the way he angle, thinking about the option he had. But in hindsight, he had no other options with this freak in front of him, "Would you believe it was Fisk himself?"

"Fisk? He's a New Yorker guy."

"Guess he got tired of New York because that devil in hell's kitchen keeps ruining his shit. But yeah, hired me and everyone here to nab the wife."

"All to threaten Freeze huh?" Spider-Man backed away seeing he already got what he wanted, "Thanks, you just helped broaden up this story."

He went to walk away, Firefly snarling, "HEY! UNFREEZE ME HERE! I TOLD YOU WHAT I KNOW!"

"You did, but maybe I'm tired of being gentle with you people," there was both a hint of sarcasticness but also a tinch of venom when he said that. Spider-Man would ignore the scream of Firefly wanting to be set free, wanting fire to set him free. Leaving through the same door Freeze broke open, he met him by the elevator, who was now carrying his wife in his arms.

The elevator took them upstairs, and just like the bottom floor, the henchman's here was left freezing, unconscious, or webbed up just for Gotham City Police Department to take care of them, "When were you gonna tell me Fisk threatened you Victor?" The slightly shorter heroine asked as they walked through the room full of captured Fisk workers.

"Only if those fool's didn't know who they were working for, which obviously, they did," he replied back, "You got what you wanted, and so did I. A fair trade, fair deal."

"I didn't do it just to take down these guys but because I simply wanted to help you," The Spider proclaimed with honesty in his voice.

"Hm...And you wonder why your reputation in this city was always degrading," they were now outside, being around Freeze meant Gotham would be a little bit colder till he goes swinging elsewhere, but the Spider didn't mind, especially when it was getting colder anyhow, "Helping everyone out who deserves it and doesn't. Kind, but rather foolish as always Spider-Man."

"What? You'd rather have my partner tussle it out with you again?" The Spider said in a more jester tone, a similar tone he had when he was joking earlier in his fight with Firefly.

He didn't answer, both walking to a heavy duty vehicle that would help situate Freeze in. Peter helps open the door for him so he can put his wife in the vehicle. A soft moan mutter out from her breath, but luckily for both of them, she wasn't waken up now as is, "He wanted me to cure his own wife," he mentioned, while gently using his fingers covered in his suit to stroke his wife brunette hair gently, "He found out I did for mines, so he want his own love to be cured too."

"But he doesn't know that it took more than just you to cure your wife. Batman, me, Robin, others from the league, and time itself too. I'm not even sure we can do the same for his wife since she has a different illness compared to Nora," The Spider mentions, "And let's not forget luck too. Freezing her for years, helped us be able to cure her. Something Fisk and his wife doesn't share the same luck the both of you had."

"You know better than I do, that Fisk is a man with nothing left to lose now more than ever," Freeze pressed a button on his neck, letting his helmet sync to his suit and moving his goggles on top of his forehead. He wanted to at least feel the exposure of the air itself, just this once, "...And the answer he wants would always be a yes then a no," he spoke more normally as his blue eye looked upon the Spider.

"Don't worry, just go back to laying low and I'll handle it from here Victor," he declared.

Victor frowned, "Just like all those fool's and Fireflies, he'll get out. He has money, people, power, and resources to make him escape your sense of justice," Victor said, "Aren't you tired of leaving these people alive to keep on hurting those close to you? Batman's own method, no matter how brief it was before his retirement, was the right thing to do in my expert opinion."

"Hey I didn't see you kill anyone in there for a change," Victor groaned, only having done it because he didn't want to hear the hero complain about him killing this and that, "When I started all this, I promised someone I would never look the other way; broke that and saw the consequences. I promised another person that I'll save everyone under my watch, broke it because I was too young to understand I can't save everyone. But before he retired, I swore to Batman that I'll never kill even if it's the only option, because there's always another option, and I won't break another promise. Not when he himself swore to not cross that line, and regardless of what Joker..." The Spider looked away briefly, bringing up that particular topic never did sit well for him. And even now, it's uncomfortable to bring up, "..What Joker did to him and the other's," he looked back at Victor, "I won't succumb myself to what Batman did a year ago. I was close…But I was able to come back from that."

Victor didn't respond at first, going inside the other side of the car as the siren's of police were on their way, "Again.. Foolish as always. Hopefully one day you grow out of that foresight."

"Heh, you know I won't Victor. I'm too much of a stud to change," he added his jesterness, lightening up the mood.

"Hm. I know, I guess that's the one thing I always admire about you and Batman. When others give up, you both don't. Thank you again Spider-Man."

Spider-Man closes the door, saluting him before they both take off in different directions, one going away from the life of crime, and the other going towards where the crime's are at.

---

Few things can be heard in another location that was underneath Gotham itself, one where a mansion resides at, and held a cave under it along with a bit of Gotham river following under the cave. In the cave, the sound of a woman was heard; grunting, moving, fighting, essentially training and staying in fighting shape. This was the Bat who didn't had on the cowl but still had her costume on. Without the cowl it showcased her Asian features, her ebony hair tied into a ponytail, and her immense focus on what seem like generated AI's that were placed as hooded assassins with different rays of weapon. Some of the bat's on top of the cave watched on, or screeched and flew around that didn't make the Batwomen lose focus on what's in front of her.

Along with her training was also the Spider who too had his own priority as he kept his focus on the large computer in front of him, compiling data on the crime scene that occurred today. He also didn't have his mask on, revealing his baggy eyes, messy brown hair that was ever presently growing, caucasian skin tone, and an ever-growing beard that was shaping up to be pretty big then a five o'clock shadow. He didn't wear his upper vested suit as it was wrapped behind the seat was on, showcasing his muscular form that looked to be in peak condition. Funny enough he was barefooted when roaming back and forth by the computer.

Even when securing, organizing, and trying to figure out more of the recent murders that have been popping around Gotham, he spent that time speaking to the computer when demonstrating all this, "So far, each killings are specific, gang related still. Though, it seems like it could be a hefty dose of vendetta going on with the way each murder was conceived."

The screen held pictures of the murder's today, the murder's a month ago, and another murder done two months ago. The bodies piled up from each photo, but it all was gruesome enough that at least one of the photos that display a particular body couldn't be recognizable, "Cass wasn't able to get much clues and evidence just like before. The murderer seemed to know what they're doing, covering up their tracks well. I still have a faint notion that this murderer could be superhuman Babs. Much of what we've seen looks like the victims don't put up a fight, or much if any. Yet, they all had weapons on them to be used, some were indeed used, but it's like the bullet didn't hit the murderer, or maybe it did, but he can't bleed. I know I know, theories and all, but we've got to get to the bottom of this. The sooner the better. I know you're busy with Ted at the moment, so I don't want to bother you right now. Heck...I rather keep you away from all this with how happy you are with him these days," the Spider ended up sighing as he pushed a button that stopped his recording. He finish up gathering everything and send to the person who was dubbed as Oracle, "Even when we try to have her keep away from all this, she keeps coming back, and we keep pulling her in," Spider-Man muttered to himself as he sat back down on the chairs and plant his fist on his cheek, "How do we, the two heroes' left in this city, keep everything under control?" He asked himself.

The monitor moved elsewhere, bringing up the news as a way to make the cave itself be less silent other than the woman that was Cass fighting. The cave had set levels of places that accompany a bunch of things; the main level had the computer Spider-Man was at, near the computer was a place for chemistry and biology work, an area for training that Cass was using, place for vehicles like a car, jet, and a boat, and near the vehicle section was where the magic of creating such has those resided at, the engineering area.

Compared to say the science lab, the engineering area was a mess that when Spider-Man turned around to it, he couldn't help but pout at the sight, 'Gotta clean that up," seeing as he had not much better to do he did so. He took his time, making sure equipment was placed in proper places, wiping away dust and debris, but soon enough his eyes found themselves paying more attention to Cass. He got the close view of seeing her in action since she had the freedom to move around in the area she was in.

Fist met face.

Feet met body.

Counter, punch.

Head moved out the way, counter kicked.

Using the end of the weapon as the damage dealer.

And ended the battle with ease. Sweating and breathing, yet the breathing was more controlled than her sweat.

Then around applause came through when the system spoke of the training ended, "Wooooo! You go girl! What's the record for today?" Spider-Man curiously prodded when moving to her, all but forgetting to clean up the rest of the engineering area.

Cass saw by the small system near that it took seconds to complete, she frowned as she wasn't proud of it and she knows she could do better, "40 seconds."

"Still better than most, especially against the League of assassin's!" he positively said

She shook her head, stretching her arms in the air, "Not better than him," she pointed to the screen in front of her

Being close to her, he wrapped his arms around her waist, placing his chin by her neck seeing what made her frown. With other names contained in the mini pad in front of them such as Nightwing, Robin, Red Hood, Spoiler, and Batwomen, the Batman tower over them, "I mean you beat Dick if that counts," he heard her scoff, "Come onnnnnn, why you love to bring yourself down when it comes to Bruce?"

She glanced at him, "You know why...Peter."

"Amuse me then Cassandra."

"I'm carrying the burden," she plain simply said.

"And remember what he said?" She didn't exactly responded to him at first, which meant he need to be a bit more convincing, "Or maybe what Alfred said?" She at least had the reaction to look back at him, "...Sssssay itttt!" he said while shaking her left and right.

It got her mood to lighten up, giggling alittle and pushing him gently aside for him to stop, "Don't be him... Be what you…Made yourself to…Be," she answered, having trouble speaking clear sentences when it comes to longer one's, "But I am...This," she looked to her hands, like her face wasn't clad in the gauntlets, but it was wrapped up in bandages, same as her feet, almost barefooted like her partner, "Is all I ever wanted… To be."

"I know, buttttt let's not focus on that," he grabbed her hand, feeling the roughness of her bandage but also a bit of the softness of her flesh when pulling her back to the training area, "I got an idea what would take your mind off."

Letting go of each other, they distance each other, "Challenge?" She probed, but also smirked at what he had in mind.

With the tap of his chin, he knew a challenge that could peak her interest, "No hands, all feet. First to the floor wins."

She smirks as he grins, "Don't hold back, Peter."

"For you? Please, you always wan-" Peter weaved himself back, barely missing the swipe of her feet, "Now why do you always do that?!" She giggled, throwing barrages of kicks that Peter slipped left and right, bouncing over her to go for a sweep.

But just like him, she saw it coming from a mere clean side view, leaping on top of him, legs wrapping around his shoulder to flip him off his feet.

Yet Peter didn't budge.

Not once.

Not twice.

And especially not the third time, "Nah ah ha," he wagged his fingers while chuckling at Cassandra's attempts, "Going all out means stick 'em power is in use."

She too gave out her own soft giggle again, more out of being enthusiastic that he wasn't holding back for her, "Heh. Good," unwrapping her legs, she pounced off him and they went back to their own kind of dance. Cassandra kicks were flying from head to toe, always moving and never letting Peter to breath.

For Peter, he was quick to respond with snappy and faster kicks, one that always got a sudden snort out of her lip. This was all about evasion and counters, blocking applied too, but it was all about moving and not stopping.

The pace was speedy. If anyone else was there they'll probably have a hard time keeping up with the pair of vigilantes. All their body parts were moving on pure instincts, seeing the attacks coming with ease, and reacting effortlessly for another attack.

The problem why their dance is so close was because neither of them was giving out or finding ways to beat the other so easily. It had to do with the way both had their own perks of how they know how, or where their attacks would come to form. Cassandra's eyes can see every point in Peter's body; the muscle, veins, and the pulse of it all, easily reading what his next attack was. So as long as she can see him, she can react, no matter if he was someone who had powers compared to her.

It didn't matter how, where, or when he will throw, she could read body language in a way most people can't. And due to this, no one can surprise her if she can see them.

He went for a kick to the body, to which she checked with her right leg. She stuffed the stinging sensation of her shin blocking Peter's own. Even with armor protecting her, she can still feel how strong his kick can be if he put more power into it, and so by him holding back, it allowed her to return with a strong teep to his body.

With him rolling with it, she went after him with a flying knee, yet twisted into a fake that got Peter to back up for a spinning kick.

He weaved, duck, and flip around her with the pleasant smirk sitting on his face. For his tool to avoid Cassandra with ease wasn't by watching his opponent, but his own skull tingling just before Cassandra could make contact with him and he would dodge not a second later. He had a warning sense of sorts that tells him where, when, and sometimes, how an attack could come his way. But depending on who he is facing, it can be counter, or even not giving him the proper information how or what to dodge. It had its moments of being inconsistent and unreliable, but at least here, it was reliable.

Yet if it was anything to be noted from the years he's been doing this, he has been taught not to always rely on his danger senses but to rely on his more human senses first and foremost. But Peter won't lie that he does have a habit of relying on it ever so often like right now. Because of how instinctive it was, it meant Peter would follow through with whatever danger was present, and move.

With how durable he was, he had to make sure to keep rolling with the blows that Cassandra dealt, and he knew they weren't something to joke about. She wasn't exactly wearing a heavy set of material to protect her fist and feet, and he really didn't want her bone's to break from his tough skin. Cassandra would thrust two kicks after one another, getting Peter to dip back for a back flip. This time, she would push herself to try to match his speed, sliding for a sweep that got Peter to force both his hands to thrust him in the air.

It wasn't so high that Cassandra couldn't reach, therefore, with a small leap, she corkscrew spun herself to land a kick to his liver. Peter grunted from the shin being shoved to his liver while still in the air. Peter could've thrown her off, but she made the other leg wrap by his left rear of the body.

Not having enough time to adjust himself, Peter had to do the only thing he could do to keep from laying flat on the metallic floor; hold his ground upon landing thanks to his feet. In doing so, his back was very, very close to the floor and Cass would instead now have both of her feet on his abdomen.

There was a moment where she waited for him to fall, and with how casual he armcross, the small grin on his face, he wasn't gonna let up. In doing so, she proceeded to jump, jump up and down, stomping on him to fall, trying to force Peter to give up, but nothing was working, causing her to groan and pout while Peter could only shake his head, chuckling, and smirking. Cassandra would soon stop, crouching low in front of his face. Their eyes stared directly into each other's eyes; her basil eyes into his hazel eyes, their sweat touching one another, their breathing and heart being felt by one another.

The Bat and the Spider.

The duo.

The two of them.

Just how most days were.

"Falllllllllllllll!" Cassandra verbalizes in a somewhat complaining manner.

"Make me. There's only one way you can win this," just as his tone of voice, his eyebrow wiggle for an added taunt.

Her legs shifted where her knees now take the place her feet were, her two hands placed on the center of his chest, and like always when they spar, her smile never stray from her lips, "I know," and she leaned in, capturing his lips with her's. Peter let her in, tasting her sweat, tasting her, every inch of her, from the lips, tongue, and everything that comes from a passionate kiss that she always does, that she always gives.

Soon enough, his body would collapse to the metallic floor, and as soon as it happened, Cassandra pulled her lips away from him, her expression becoming ecstatic as she sat on her partner. She was proud of how easily she beat him by using her secret technique, and it was even better seeing him pouting like a little kid, "I let you win."

"Nope."

"Of course I did, you love baiting me into doing something to counteract with a move of your own," he pointed out.

"You make it easy."

"Because I love my Bat being on top of me," this got her to blush, "HA! Too easy!"

She plucked his chest for that, "Go to sleep. You got work in a few hours."

Peter places his arms behind his head, "Not unless you come with me."

Her smile became smaller, almost removed as she looked away from him momentarily, "I got more training to do."

He sat up, turning her head back to him from her chin, "Then I ain't moving anytime soon."

Cassandra for a moment stared at him and didn't move or say anything else. She knew how stubborn he was, always looking out for her and always making sure she gets rest. She knows she does the same thing for him, but he also has to know that she doesn't want to stop. With the murder's that's been going on, and no criminal has been apprehended, she wants to be ready for anything and everything that will come. The Bat can't rest, and Cassandra is the Bat, the only Bat.

But then she thought about him, the man in front of him, the man who matters more than herself. And she knows if he doesn't sleep, he's gonna be late for work once more. With an eyeroll and sigh, she would end up compiling, "Fine. Clean me up."

He fist pumps the air, "Your wish is my command!"

At least some nights can end with a bit of peace between the two. After all, it's just the two of them protecting Gotham nowadays.

---

Tid bit, I know the name Batwomen is technically wrong. But in one of the future chapters, it does point out to why I change it, and why Cassandra prefers the E instead of the A.

Chapter 2: Source of Comfort

October 13th

The sun slowly rose in a huge mansion that was located outside of Gotham City. Tree's, grass, and flowers themselves weren't blooming as much as the weather was changing from fall to winter. However, they were still managed in proper conditions enough that they all still held their colors.

Inside the mansion, only two people were in it; in the bedroom, Cassandra sat up drawing in her sketchbook of Peter sleeping soundly in front of her. Some of the bed sheets cover up her legs but not her completely nude body that both showed off her tone, small muscular body compared to Peter who was bigger in frame, more taller than her, and more muscular than her stature.

Unlike Peter, who was snoring away in the soft cushion the mansion provided for him and his partner, Cassandra never liked to sleep as much as him. She likes to be up, doing something, be active, stay ready and sharp. For anything and everything.

In particular, she's keeping her creativity side sharp, or sharp as it can be since she's mostly been so focused on being Batwomen that she hasn't found time to draw. She spend what seem like an hour sketching Peter; adding shadows and light to emphasize the sun coming from the window, getting the right shape of his head with the added amount of hair that kept moving because of him making himself comfortable, the muscular body parts that the sheets didn't cover, and the way his own perspective was more towards her.

It's been awhile since she had done it, but she was glad that she was able to see the art becoming more satisfying to see. Cassandra was fond of doing this, not just drawing Peter, but watching him sleep, 'Calm. He's calm today… Blissfully asleep. I wore him out. Still doesn't get as tired…' The thought of knowing one of Peter's many gifts was his increased stamina made her lips grin softly, 'He can keep up. Always could. Few things I love about him.'

She would stop sketching, looking momentarily out the window to see how sunny it was. She knew it was time to do other things for the day, putting the pencil inside her sketchbook, she left it aside by the nearby desk. Before getting up, she kissed Peter's cheeks, not caring how stubble his chin was with his growing beard but at the same time growling to herself, 'Need to shave, badly.'

She stretched once out of the bedroom; from her arms, back, and legs, she needed to have her body be mobile. Her basil eyes would catch herself in the mirror; besides how long her hair was without it being turned into a ponytail, reaching by her shoulders, she took notice of the scars litter throughout her body, arms, and legs. Each was from years of being the Bat, and some goes back years before she was the only Bat, 'Dangerous. Molded to be dangerous,' Her hand's travel to each spot, not reacting to any of those. However when she turns, to showcase a huge scar that resembles the same bat symbol she wears.

She couldn't help but froze. A reminder of the price she pays day in and day out in being Batwomen, but this scar was different from all the rest. And before she knew it, she felt herself taking a large breath in and out, calming herself, 'So long... As my body doesn't break.. I'll keep having scars.. To protect. To bring justice. To carry out his burden. Persevere through the pain, and bring hope, ' she declared to herself, grabbing what seemed like Peter's boxer that lay on the floor.

Simply because she didn't feel like finding her panties, and Peter's boxers were more comfortable to wear.

She almost forgot something, by the window was a red rose that not only needed watering but opened up the window to give it more sunlight. Once she was done with her minimal task, she trudged out of the bedroom and walked amongst the mansion. She passed by multiple rooms that were empty, multiple paintings, antiques, and all sorts of little stuff that made the mansion made for a rich family.

Going down the stairs, in front of what was a fountain drizzling with water, again there were multiple rooms but more distinct for other purposes. Cassandra saw to the right of her was the dining room that was supposed to be for a family having dinner time with one another, next to it would be the kitchen, but she moved towards the left side to where the living room was. It withheld a bunch of books, but not only books, couches that were for reading, fireplace that had no fire, not letting any source of light come through besides outside of the room, statues of old armors from a bygone time, swords on display, more antiques, but of all else, frames of pictures by a clock that tick and tick.

Pictures that displayed who the mansion belonged to, and how the mansion used to be a more crowded place than just her and Peter. A picture in front of her was a young boy with a mother and father; the boy was happy with his parents beside him in the picture, making Cassandra frown, 'Batman.. I wonder if you're happy now..? That you found…Some level of hap..ppines… Even when… We're all scattered. Only Peter and Selina… Make sure you're alright,' Left to the center of the painting was him older, but without his parents, and with an older man clad in a black and white suit, standing behind him who was proud that he graduated from a schooling.

Yet Cassandra knew better, the Batman smile here was only just to show, it wasn't genuine as it was when he was a child. But, that changed to the right. The picture was taken from the now empty, cold dining room, but instead, in this format of the past, Cassandra felt it was warm and happy. Because the Batman was surrounded by people he loved that made him genuinely smile, even if it was small.

The Batman was much, much older, a man by now and in the center of the picture while being the tallest person in the room. Near him wrapped around his arms was a beautiful, slender woman who had greener eyes compared to Cassandra, and her head lay comfortably by his shoulder. He also had his other arm wrapped around the older man that replaced his parents in the other picture. There were also tears that were brimming in his elderly happy gaze that he had to wipe. There were also two other people by the Batman's father figure; both had dark skin and both wore glasses, yet one of them was older and the other was younger. The younger one had his eyes on the oddity that came when the picture was taken.

That oddity actually involved a rather handsome man making two other people crouch in the picture just to be on the same level with the women who had red hair that sat in a wheelchair. The two that were crouching had different levels of expression, one was annoyed that his hood was taking off by someone else, and the other had to hold onto a blond-haired girl who suddenly jumped on his back. The handsome man too had an orange skin woman, with long reddish hair, glowing green eyes that match her glowing smile tilting her head to his shoulder as she held back a laughter.

This had gotten Cassandra to lightly giggle at remembering that spontaneous moment. Yet, by the back of the annoyed crouch man, was Peter taking off his hood, simultaneously holding Cassandra by his chest as his chin rested on her shoulder with his cheeky smile plastered on his face, and an elderly woman sharing a blissful laugh at the events that were occurring in the picture as she held Cassandra's hand, offering her own warm and affectionate smile.

And again, Cassandra couldn't help but smile at the memory that day. It led her to touching the picture of that memory, the memory of how good that day was that made her smile so big and happy. For her it almost felt like yesterday where her family was big, healthy, together, and close to one another regardless of whatever they were dealing with on the side, 'Family... I miss them all...' then the smile came and went, as reality told her those days seem so far in the past.

Things change, change so far and fast that Cassandra didn't know why it had to come to that point. Till this day, she would've done anything to have all her family back again. But some of them aren't around to bring back to the living, some had responsibilities elsewhere, some kept their distance from them, and others like herself try to keep what's left together.

But in the end, it was fruitless. Everything seemed so dark and bleak nowadays, and even if she had Peter by her side, the mansion only made her feel cold and alone. That's why Cassandra knows Peter made sure to stay fully by her side. With all that happened, he had to be here, 24/7 to keep Cassandra company. She loves it wholeheartedly, but sometimes Cassandra wants to feel that loneliness, that cold feeling in the mansion.

Just to remind her why she is the Bat, and that is her responsibility to protect this city, but also to protect the identity, and meaning of the symbol.

Her eyes drifted back to the man, the tall man that was the former Bat, smiling wide and happy as he chuckled with utter joy of his family, 'I don't know... How to bring..You back. To the days you were like that,' her hands glided to him, touching the picture, 'All I want to see is this.. But I know, you're no longer that person... That person I idolize,' letting her hand drift away from the picture, Cassandra shook her head, 'Can't focus on the past. Gotham needs me. Only the Bat. All that matters. Must be ready. Always,' she opened up the clock near the fireplace, turning it fully to one, then back around to nine , to three, and finally one more time to nine again. It was then a sudden click was heard, and the clock slid open that showcased an entrance.

Cassandra reset the clock back to the time it was before she entered. The clock closed the entrance for herself and she went lower and lower to the cave that was under the mansion. She stopped at the metallic door, a blue hue lit over her partial nude body before it opened, "Scan complete," no longer in the semi empty mansion, now she was low, deep under, where the bat's flies and screech.

The Batcave, the only cave that can make her feel what she wanted to feel. Cold, loneliness, but pure focus on what needs to be done, "Lights on," lights came on, causing some bat's to move away from the lights, "Computer on," computer lit on, playing the news of today. She would move herself to the area that was essentially her workout gymnasium.

She started with perfection her acrobatics, flipping around obstacles, keeping her composure without looking at where she lands, focusing on her equilibrium when she needs to, and all in all, making sure her agility was honed as ever. Then she moved to a machine that worked on her cardio; running normal, then sprinting hard, going back and forth that enabled her to clock in at 10 mile run in less than thirty minutes.

Just from the run itself, she felt her cabs were on fire, her stomach ached with the lack of food from fasting, but she didn't give weight to the pain and aches she was feeling. She breathed through her nose, embracing the uncomfortable, and went to stretch her legs and body to cool down the fire her bone's were feeling. She knows that there's still more to be done, more to achieve, it didn't matter if she was a woman.

She wanted to conquer the person who became before her. She knows that the identity is for her own making, but she needs to work harder into being every bit of what the Batman was.

Once her stretching was done, and her body cooled off, she went right into shadow boxing. She grabbed nearby weights that latched on to her body, there was a small shiver with how cold they were since the cave would get air from the outside. She would then put emphasis and prioritizing on her jabs, crosses, footwork, and the occasional boxing techniques. She added kicks, knees, elbows, using the art of eight limb technique to further push herself, and then also shadow and practice her movements involving grabbing, lifting, shooting for a grapple, but also exploring many more ways to transition from striking to grappling.

Once done, she moved to some bag work; she made sure to wear proper material to not break her hand, bandaging her hands, and using a glove before dedicating herself into the regiments she wanted to do today. She went full force on the heavy bag in front of her, kicking it with her shins, kneeing it, elbowing it, punching it, all to condition her body further than yesterday or the day before that. The heavy bag was created with materials that could take blow's from the likes of Peter, which is why Cassandra was fond of it.

After all, Peter was the one to create things since Batman, or anyone else that helped him on his journey, were no longer here. She finds him brilliant, but nowadays lazy as he isn't using the intelligence in a way she hoped he would in the past. But she can't fault him, he's been through a lot enough that the path he's on is an oddity that he's still trying to figure out. She just hopes that he can find a way to be put on a better path than yesterday.

Once she finished, she took the weights off and put them back where they belonged. Breathing through her nose, she let herself get a moment of rest before continuing her training, "Combat on," the combat area lit up behind her, "Set up Cain build," she spoke when proceeding to the combat area. A woman appeared, looking almost exactly like Cassandra; from height, to her features, and hair but much shorter, stood in front of her. Not only that, but also a man who too shares the same features of Cassandra, all except for his gray hair, sharp chin and nose, and being much taller than Cassandra, "Time me," Cassandra got into her stance, facing down imagery version of her mother and father, "Start."

"Are you positive you want to fight without any armor on Batwomen?" the system in the Batcave asked, knowing she wasn't wearing much of anything besides Peter's boxer.

"Yes, now start," Cassandra walked around her foe's, her father did the same as she, prowling and watching their target, but not her mother. Her mother stood, waited, as if she was planning just as Cassandra was. Cassandra eyes never left neither of her opponents, and then she proceeds to move forward. Cassandra was quick to react to her mother's strike when coming into range, throwing out a kick and back flipping away as her father pulled out his firearm to make it harder for Cassandra to fight comfortably.

'My fight, not there's,' she reminded herself.

Cassandra blocked, parried a good portion of her mother's attacks who took the moment to try to catch her off guard, not wanting her to even have a second to breathe. She grunted at how strong they were, but she knew one thing, this wasn't the real version of her parents. The real version of them would almost feel like it was a fight to the death. The AI version of her mother was just as good as her, countering enough to hit Cassandra a few times, but not enough to stop her. She weaved, constantly moved so she can keep the manner of her fight on her own terms and not on theirs.

Cassandra would push the fight closer to her father, seeing as she was always eyeing where his shots would be, allowing her to be evasive. She threw a flying, backhanded spinning kick that her mother bent back to avoid, yet Cassandra wasn't aiming for her, and she was now in front of her father. He quickly went to fire at her, Cassandra saw the muscle in his finger tense allowing her to dodge low before he could fire. Cassandra uses her palm to knock his aim off balance when rising up, and tries to disarm him to make it her fight. But her mother didn't make it easy, grabbing her in a choke due to not being able to cover her blind spot for a second. She had to elbow her nose, elbow her stomach that allowed for enough room to turn and pounce off her.

With the pounce, she tried swiping at her father with a bunch of kicks, he made sure to avoid it, barrel rolling backwards, but Cassandra did the same to be in the same position as before. He quickly put his gun away, changing his tactic as he went for several attacks involving heavy palm strikes. This caused Cassandra to shift her focus on deflecting, parrying that allowed her for a split second to strike when giving the chance. But he didn't make it easy, catching her a few times, but she knows sometimes in a fight you have to eat a blow to give back twice. In this moment, she was able to send a hook to where he tried dodging, but fell right into her trap when she quickly pulled back her left hook for an uppercut, landing clean to his jaw. In turn Cassandra would then dock, avoiding her mother's attack, to where she performed a one handed black flip that had her own shin coming down on to her mother's forehead.

She knew her mother would block it, one arm protecting the side of her skull while the other hand absorbed the blow. But that didn't stop her onslaught of attacks, constantly keeping the pressure as she and mother went trade for trade in terms of strikes and movement. Even if the AI dealt enough pain for her to feel, it was nothing compared to the real person she faced. Thus, allowing her to keep going. Cassandra had also bounced back to her father, keeping him on his toes and covering her blind spot. Soon enough, both parents would synergies their attacks. Each using their own techniques to try to take down Cassandra.

But she didn't back down. She was on the defensive; moving, slipping and rolling out of their attack's, striking when necessary, flipping over them to reposition herself, deflecting, block, and parrying both strikes for a counter she apply by kicking them both from head to body, before jumping at them where her legs again went through many moves that involves twisting, turning, but most importantly attacking both parents.

She was molded by them, but she was also molded by Gotham, and that came with the family she had at one point.

In her small close quarter fight with her father, she hit him in the throat as she quickly found a way to take away the gun from his body. She would've kept going, but by the side of her eyes, she noticed the AI version of her mother was coming at her with a sword now, causing her to keep moving and evading her swipes.

Now it was her mother being more on the pressure, swinging with precise angles that would be enough to kill if she were real. Cassandra knew where to dodge just from the way her shoulder's contour in either direction she swung. When one particular swing came her way, both hands clapped the sword, causing her to be on her knee's just for how strong she made sure the AI was. Always aware of her surroundings, her hearing caught her father picking up his gun, and she immediately rolled out of the way for him to shoot her mother's sword out of her hand.

Eyeing her father and mother. She was back on her feet, motioning her head to avoid her father's bullet before it had time to trigger it loose, and when the opportunity came her way, she aerial flip over her mother's low sweep, cartwheel allowing her to dodge her father's firing, then redirected another flip coming straight to into her father, where then performed a similar overhead attack from earlier with the usage of her heel coming down on her father's head. She would then flip herself in midair, the ball of her feet hitting his chin, and angling out of her mother's attack, and proceed to do a spinning kick, knocking the father out of the arena but also being quick enough to add another spinning kick to attack her mother.

She was able to avoid the vicious attack, and now it was just her to deal with. She saw her going back to in her own hand to hand stance just as Cassandra did. It was always odd for Cassandra to fight her mother in this state, it wasn't really her, it tried to be her, but it wasn't at all.

The mother she remembers fighting from time to time movement screamed of one thing, she wanted to die, die a warrior. Here, this AI had none of that, and so when Cassandra and her trade blows again, Cassandra soon out beats her; palm strike to the body, and triple kick she did in the air, two to the head, one to the body, having her stumble out of the area, "Combat completed. Personal best now is five minutes and 30 seconds."

Once again, she breathes through her nose, controlling her heart rate. She felt her eyebrow shoot up from the timer, 'Five minutes…?' She then suddenly frowned and shook her head, moving her long hair away from her eyelids, 'Too short,' she sat on her floor, pushing back her hair that she didn't bother tying before the fight, 'Yet these aren't the real things… No matter how much Peter...Twists and turns in his creation… These AI's aren't real. Not the real people I want to fight. To test myself.'

Weirdly, Cassandra sounded like she missed fighting her parent's. But it would mean she missed the idea of knowing that she was going to die in the fight, that she had to make this one stand to live to see another day.

She doesn't want to admit to that, to come to terms with that, cause then she'll be like her mother. Always fighting, fighting whoever is the best, to be awarded with death if she loses.

But, the saddest thing is, she's been feeling this since taking up the mantle, since becoming the only Bat. She knew she had too, that she was the only one capable of it.

Because she was made for it.

Born and bred for it.

It's all she ever wanted to be since believing in the symbol.

And for a year of being the Bat, it's her job to redeem what that symbol mean not just to her, but for Gotham.

But to that end, that gut feeling kept poking her, that natural instinct that wanted more, more out of what being the Bat meant for. That ugly side she keeps trying to deny, one who didn't want to fight the usual mobsters, gangster's, the supervillains or craze that Gotham had been dealing with for years, that she had dealt with for years when she wasn't the only Bat. No, Cassandra ugly side wanted a fight.

A real fight.

A fight to death.

One that would put Gotham life on the line, and her life as well.

The last time she was fighting for her life involved a painful memory of seeing what happened to her family, her Bat family, and a confrontation with the Batman. A craze clown who had a sick obsession for Batman, wanting to have his grand finale by driving in a deep wound in the family. And he did it, he made sure the Bat family had a heavy dose of a scar that broke apart their relationship with one another. In doing so, the original Bat was scared and sought a different option to help his city.

One where Cassandra had to face him, to stop his madness.

Even when the clown carved a bat symbol on her back, making her scream, making Batman lash out in anger at him, doing something she can never forget. She'll forever have the source of trauma on her back, knowing that symbol on the back of her made Batman do something he swore he would never do.

In doing so, it was up to her to make sure she never crosses that line as well, because she knows what it's like seeing someone dying by a person's hand; gasping for life, eyes balling back, body wanting to live, but the body can't.

It got her to get up, wanting to train more, but she saw that it was almost seven and she wanted to be around her source of comfort for the time being. It was troublesome for her when all she had were good and bad memories of her family.

And being in isolation only brings up the bad ones then the good one's. Though, deep down it just motivates her to be better, no matter how depressed it makes Cassandra.

---

Cassandra headed back to her bed where she found Peter still snoring. A slight shift of his body indicated he was up, but he didn't want to get up from his half sleep. Her lips lifted up from her once allayed expression, even if it was small, 'Least you're aware I'm here…You're supposed to be up… For work,' Cassandra said to herself, not approving of the more lazy aspects her boyfriend has.

A small sigh came to her lip as she missed the times where he would always look to get up to confront the day. Yet now? He doesn't.

She would slowly crawl into the bed, crawl to him, where she then snuggled her way to his body, moving his arms around her still somewhat sweaty body, and cuddling herself into his neck. He groaned slightly, consciously getting more comfortable with her nearby again. Cassandra would get close to his ears, "Wake up," she whispered, nibbling on his ear lightly.

He again groaned, not wanting to. Somehow he can be in a deep sleep or half sleep, but when she starts doing little stuff like this it would wake him up, but more out of annoyance than anything, "...No.." He lazily responded

She played with his hair, letting her hands move around its soft strands, playing with the long strands that she so desperately wants to cut badly. She doesn't mind it, but she prefers Peter with shorter hair, and a clean shave would go nicely with his shorter hair, "You have work," she said, reminding him of his responsibility.

"..Bah.." With a response like that, she nuzzles his neck, cuddling more into his body so he can feel her sweat more, "...Ugh, stoppp…." he moaned in the pillow, "...Icky sweaty...Stop...!"

"No," she giggled, she added some kisses by chin, to which she had to suck up the disgusted feeling of his beard. Then his neck, and his shoulders, "Not until you get up."

"...Fine," he turned to her, his hazel eyes opening at her as she saw one part of his lip grinning, "You need to shower, and your hungry too."

She kissed his lips, morning breath and all, she didn't care and neither did he, "Why don't you… help me with…Both?" She teasingly asked.

"Obviously I would have too since I can't be smelling like Gotham sewers when going to work," he said in a jesting manner. His eyebrow raised, moving the sheets slightly to see her wearing his boxer, "...You really want me to walk around with my dingaling, dingalingaling huh?"

She again giggled, "No one's watching."

A slight redness appeared on his cheek, making Cassandra aw in his embarrassment, "Yes there is. A sweaty, beautiful girl is gonna watch me butt naked" she then took off the boxer, making Peter go speechless at the bold move, "...I'm so glad Alfred isn't here to see us about to walk through the mansion naked and all."

Cassandra again would snicker but being reminded of wanting to show Peter something, "Oh!" Cassandra sits up, moving across from Peter to get her sketchbook, showing Peter what she drew, "What do you think?"

Peter sat up as well, holding the sketchbook in his hand as he saw himself sleeping. He noted that Cassandra got every bit of him in the rough special sketch; every sign of realism was laid out in front of it that only served to make him smile at one of many secret talents Cassandra has. Cassandra however noticed the smile had a hint of sadness to it. It made her smile diminish just a bit as likely her boyfriend is reminded how talents such as this weren't explored enough.

Every now and again she touches her talents, but if it wasn't being the Bat, then it's not something Cassandra would pursue, "Jeez, you probably can give Michelangelo a run for his money," he looks up at her. It seemed he knew how he was eyeing him, therefore, his smile lighting up as he pushed past her strand of her hair to kiss her again, "Spectacular work as always Cass."

Cassandra would've loved to spend more time romancing with her men, but she had to make sure to prioritize everything; to Peter working and to her staying sharp before the night comes. She put aside her sketchbook once again, holding hands with Peter again as they headed into the nearby bathroom to take care of themselves.

They shower first, in a cold shower that got Peter to jump from the coldness because Cass pushed him in first unexpectedly, "YOW! WHY DO YOU ALWAYS BATHE IN THE COLD?!"

"Because it's good for you!"

"Then how about you let the water hit you more than me?!" She shut him up by kissing him when joining in the shower, letting him suffer more in the cold. Somehow, he wasn't complaining anymore when having her body on him, her lips intertwined with his.

They definitely could've gone further, but then Peter would be even more late to work.

Peter would begin washing Cassandra's body as she did his. He also made sure to shampoo and condition her hair for her. She couldn't help but close her eyes, lean on Peter as he meticulously made sure to take proper care of her hair. When all said was done, Peter was gonna do the same for himself, but Cassandra snatched it quickly, wanting to do her part. Obviously, Peter didn't object, instead lightly chuckling as she let her do the work, "Hair needs cutting," she mentioned, both playing and washing every strand of his brown hair that was a mix between being straight and having curls.

"I'll take care of it sometime soon," she pouted, seeing that it was a lie. He eyerolls, "I'll take careeeeeeee of it. Sometime soon."

She let out a small snort, letting Peter do what he pleases for the time being. But if he doesn't do anything with it then she will.

They were out of the shower, using their towels to dry their skin. Next was brushing their teeth, followed by actually now putting on some clothes. Peter would wear a jacket over a button up shirt with jeans and black and white sneakers. Contrast to Cass, who prefer a gray hood, gray pants, and a no lace shoes

Together they enjoy the silence of the mansion as Peter fiddles his watch in his arm while they go to make their breakfast together. Like Cassandra earlier in the Bat cave, he played a radio program on the tv that talked about today's news. As Cassandra was accurate with cutting the vegetables with a knife, Peter articulated towards handling the eggs and sausage.

Once finished they sat and enjoyed their food together. It was quite a large plate full of breakfast that focused on protein and electrolytes, something the two needed on a daily basis. And like always in the lonely mansion, it was just the two of them, the Bat and the Spider as always, "Going to the clock tower," Cassandra spoke, eating rather fast compared to Peter who was taking his time with his food.

"Training?"

Cassandra nodded, "And see what Barbara... Has on the murderer," thinking about how this killer was still on the loose only serves to make Cassandra scowl, "We have to catch this…Killer."

He nodded so, "We will, like we always do."

News oddly shifted to a particular topic that caught their attention, "In other news, Bruce Wayne made a surprise announcement of holding a fundraiser on Halloween night near the Fashion district. Along with Wilison Fisk helping in this event. The former criminal once known as the Kingpin, plans to talk more about how being reformed is changing the ways he approaches helping Gotham."

This perks the two heroes at the suddenness of Fisk making moves, "We also need to take the fat man down too," Peter pointed out, "He's gonna be going gung-ho with how desperate he's gotten to save his wife."

Cassandra found herself perplexed on the subject, "Hm.. He isn't reform.. Why fake...?" She questioned Peter.

Peter found himself shrugging, but maul at the thought of Fisk can ever be reform, "If Tombstone can then anyone can, but then again, I always like to believe that it isn't too late to change your life for the better. Butttt.. He did go after Victor, you wouldn't believe the rampage he went on to get back his wife."

"Seems love... Does that to you," Cassandra eyes squinted, doubling back on the fundraiser, "Gazette would want you there."

Peter nodded at this fact, "I am an ace photographer after all. Gonna ask Babs for help to join in?"

She too nodded, "If not her, Selina," Peter raised his eyebrow at her, to which Cassandra took notice, "...I know she…Won't like it."

Peter snorted, "No she wouldn't indeed. With how distance we've been with her for sometime, she'll likely blast you for that," a small groan came from his girlfriend, not something she wants to deal with, or hope's to not to, "Still, It's unbelievable how well she has you wrapped around her fingers since getting more involved with us."

Cassandra found herself lightly giggling, "She's nice. Try talking to her more."

"You know I've always had bad luck with cats, Cass."

"That wouldn't stop you," she countered.

"Ok, but she loves to tease me endlessly! I can't go a second with her busting my chops! It's like yeah, she isn't a known criminal anymore but man, the endless teasing she's done to me for years will keep on going."

Cassandra again giggled at knowing how much Peter put up with that particular woman. But then she was also quickly reminded of another, one that exemplified his bad luck with cats, "She isn't like Felicia."

Peter groaned at the mention of that particular cat, and it didn't escape him how her tone change and how her basil eyes stared at him, "She's a different story and I can only hope she stays out of trouble," he began to frown at remembering Felicia and at one point, how much he meant to her, "Wherever she is..."

Cassandra didn't like seeing Peter mauling over the past, especially with someone he had a connection with. The kind of connection that she knows he wanted to dive deeper, but they were polar opposite from one another that they never could be much of anything. And it didn't help that she left a bad impression on Cassandra before she disappeared from Gotham, "I hate her."

"But deep down she's a kind person. If she ever come's back, and maybe if she decides to mend the bridges, you should try getting to know her Cass," he bumped his shoulder with hers.

She too frowned, looking upon Peter with the idea she displeased dramatically, "No. She would look to play upon your feelings and hurt you again," she said without stopping just as her voice became tense and a bit angry, "And then, want to taunt me of how I'm not good enough for you that you could do better!"

"Hey that was two years ago and you've put her in her place where she should," he kissed her nose, a way to calm her tense feelings involving his ex. He even added more kisses, forehead and cheeks weren't safe, "And that makes you an awesome girlfriend that's way better than her!" Hearing him say that, and getting all the loveable kisses only made Cassandra giggle and warm inside. Whatever intense feeling she had involving Peter ex was all but gone in heartbeat, "Switching the topic, when are you gonna hash things out with Bruce?" He had curiously brought up. Cassandra's answer was a shrug of her own when finishing up her food, "Oh come on! Don't give me that! You have to do it sometime. He might not be going to therapy as he should, but that shouldn't stop you both from…You know? Talking again."

Cassandra gave a long sigh on this peculiar topic that her boyfriend unexpectedly wanted to dive into, "...Eventually. Still hard to.. Look at him Peter..." Her eyes drifted away from her boyfriend, becoming more uncomfortable with the topic he was poking at with a stick, "..Still hard to put away… What he had done for the…Symbol," she struggled out to say all that. It wasn't as easy to talk in such long sentences. Till this day, Cassandra still struggles to properly talk without stopping. The cost of knowing how a body speaks but not knowing how to properly convey words from her own body.

Peter knows it had to do a lot with her upbringing as a child, one that was unnatural and no person should ever have to undergo that type of treatment, 'All thanks to her father, she didn't know how to properly talk or read for years,' Peter thought to himself, 'Wanting to raise a child assassin that was better than him, and her mother. One that only learns one single language, and it was a person's body. Thank god she now has an understanding to read and speak, but there's always room for improvement…Something she neglects now, sadly,' Peter could only nod at his girlfriend's response. At the end of the day it was up to her to make things work with Bruce. And therefore, he left where the topic was at.

But he wishes Cassandra could push the needle of looking to repair what has been broken between her and Bruce.

The timing was perfect when Peter got a notification on his phone. Cassandra saw it, reading the Flying Grayson had sent something to him, "Ho! Looks like Dick is enjoying some time with Kori!"

Cassandra saw the same handsome men from the picture in the living room, getting picked up by a much taller, orange skin, green eyes, outlandishly gorgeous woman with long red hair that also was in the family picture. Though, Dick looked to be more terrified since he was supposed to be taking a picture but it looked like the phone fell and Kori was flying to catch it, "Cute," she simply said.

"Each day he seems like he's moving like his old self," he complimented with the videos of him and Kori moving around, "Maybe one day we can have a vacation on another planet too."

Cassandra let her head drop by his shoulders. The thought of them doing something like that was rather nice, but she is needed here in Gotham more than taking a break from it, and so is he, "One day."

"That reminds me, wonder what Tim and Steph are doing right now? You talked to them recently?" He asked.

She nodded, "Tim is still in school. Steph texted sometime ago. Doing well. She plans on visiting for.. Sparring."

Peter chuckles at the term sparring with Cassandra, "I'll get the camera ready," Cassandra pluck his cheek, not liking the intention of that, "Fineeeeee. Although, Jason would've done it before."

"Because he's an ass," somehow, Peter also noted a harsh scowl involving the person that was Jason, "Still an ass...More than ever."

"He..." Peter sighs, "Remember he wasn't like the person he is now. I know its not an excuse for him, but he was better than the angry, drunk man he is now. You saw it when he competed batarang tossing, or him doing stupid pranks when he was getting better, when we all found out he was alive, been alive for years without everyone knowing," suddenly, Peter went silent, an apparent gloom became present on his feature. Cassandra noticed he still had food on the plate that he was outrageously eating slowly.

All this talk about the past was only helping him stay away from work, something Cassandra began to get even more less fondly of, "I miss them Cass," he planted his hands on his cheek, "I miss them all when they used to hang here while I had a crap apartment in Chinatown. When it was all chaotic, loud, everyone doing everything, Alfred trying to control us all, and Bruce being happy with what he had here...I miss it all..."

She touches his hand, locking together with hers, "Same. Stop going there."

"Can't help it. If I didn't have to help the league out in an off world mission. Maybe I could've stopped the joker from tearing us apart."

She hates when he gets like this. Even getting a glimpse of him just screams of guilt. Cassandra hates when his body is just riddled with guilt, sometimes guilt he had no play in creating, "Maybe. Maybe not, the past is the past. Batman wanted you there." she would then take his plate and eat the leftover breakfast.

"Hey! I was gonna eat that!" She paused, looking at him, her eyebrow raised. He really did try for a split second to make it seem like he meant it, but Cassandra can see through it that gotten Peter to shake his head, grinning just lightly, "Go ahead eat. But you're cleaning up the plate.

"Then you're swinging me to Barbara."

"I hate swinging here Cass! There's only trees!"

"Too bad."

Peter groans, he can't win with her sometimes. But it's a charm he loves so he can't be too mad about it

---

Peter swung into the bright morning of Gotham. He had to use his acrobatics and the little height he got from the trees to swing into the city, reaching the Robert Kane bridge to get him close to North Gotham. Even in the morning, some petty crimes still lurk getting his attention. Cassandra would help where she can, such as mostly throwing some objects to make Peter's life a bit easier.

There was almost nothing that Cassandra could relate to when having her arms around Peter's neck as he swung her around Gotham. The wind passing by them as he goes at breakneck speed, the gleeful feeling she always feel in the momentum, how careful he was to not go too fast but still give her that joy of his web swinging, and just as much she enjoys, she can feel, see, even when he has his costume on.

That he too enjoys the freedom his powers bestowed on him. The feeling of just being free where there isn't a problem to worry about.

Sure, she has been carried before, flown around, but something about the way Peter swings with this lush sense of freedom is always such a gorgeous thing to experience.

But there is one problem, he was indeed running late to work, partially her to blame, partially his sleeping, but mostly because he had a moment of procrastinating the past once more. She was at fault of it too earlier when training, but he had a common theme of looking back at the past a lot more than her. And it didn't help that he found himself being busy stopping the petty crimes as he kept swinging through Gotham. It was all appointed to him simply not wanting to go to work, not keep his life balance.

Something she always admired and loved that side of him. That no matter what, Peter always tried to balance his normal life and his hero's life. The thought itself made her sad, knowing that in present day that doesn't exist it had before, 'I wanna do..Some thing about that,' Cassandra found herself thinking of how to be more supportive of her boyfriend, but she was stumped. She may be a great fighter, know thousands of ways to disable someone without hurting or breaking them, but being a person who could use empathy as a way to help a person?

That's not something she ever was great in, '...Don't know what to do...Wish I knew...And I wish he stopped...Working at a job he grew to not...like,' Cassandra wants the best for him, but the hardest part is how can she be of use to give him the best?

What can she do that the people he once had in his life made him feel happy, positivity, pride in who he is, but being able to live for today instead of stagnating in the present? This is the part where she entirely felt useless at, 'Wonder how..Aunt May..His friend Harry...Gwen...Even that girl Mary Jane...Kept him grounded?' she asked herself, knowing she won't get the answer she wanted.

Especially with those people no longer in his life in various ways.

Peter made sure to drop her at the top of the five story building that was designated and was a literal clock tower. It resided in the middle part of Gotham called Miagani island, one where more of Gotham's gothic skyscrapers occupy at. Peter also didn't forget to pull up his mask and kiss her before he leaves. It did cause her to push him off the ledge he was on so he could at least get to work somewhat on time. She moved over to the ledge he once was crouch on, having her arms on it, her chin resting on it as she watched him swing to his job.

Just as he came and went, Cassandra would always be mesmerized at his movement of swinging; he almost looked like a dancer with how he twisted, turned, flipped, and all the more controlling himself with the amount of speed he goes at when he has too. It took years for him to do any of that, and Cassandra believes no one but him can do the sort of things he can do. Maybe a few who were like him can do what he does, but it took twelve years for Peter to be able to do all he can do, and no one can copy his moves, and who he is.

She can attest to that herself.

After he was gone from her eye view, Cassandra would back up to the tiptop of the clocktower. She stomped at a distinct brick that slid open an entrance leading inside Landing without any trouble. Cassandra basked in how radiant the clock tower was with the big clock in front of her moving with time, but also embracing the sun to come through the room thanks to the clock's opening. In front of her were monitors, after monitors, after monitors, next to each other with each having their own set of PC's powering them, but more so, having one person regulating all that she's seeing, "Like I tell Bruce every time in the past, don't you knock? Cause I sure as hell knock when I go to the Batcave," said the red-haired woman who turned her head to take in Cassandra. Like in the picture, Barbara was in a wheelchair, glasses and all, but it didn't stop her from using her brain to help the Bat and the Spider.

And of course, helping protect Gotham whenever she could.

Cassandra smiled, shrugged, and put her hand in her pocket, "I did."

Barbara made a small crackle at her quick witted response, "Stomping my roof is not knocking," Cassandra leaned on her desk nearby, observing the recent murders that's been popping as of late in front of the monitor, "Whoever this killer is doesn't hold back when it comes to the gruesome scale," she mentioned with both photos and videos she scoured for more detail on what she can find on the murder, "Something I know you and Peter already mention and observed. How are you two by the way?"

"Good," was the answer Barbara expected to get as Cassandra was more attentive to what's in front of her. Each one was as dreadful as what Cassandra saw yesterday, and all looked to range from one mobster to another gangster types in the city, "Think he enjoys it?" She questions, wanting to pick at Barbara's brain for a possible theory.

"Possibly, who knows really till we get more info on him. We all noticed he's smart enough not to leave a single trace of DNA. The only thing we possibly got is height from the size of his shoot, but," she pulled multiple shoe prints, all look to be different in width and length, "They all seem to be different then the last one."

Cassandra rubs her chin. A single person obviously can't just wear different shoes, or at least they can, but not unless there's multiple people doing the killing, or this killer is somehow a meta that can change the shape of his feet, "Different people? A meta...That can change...Feet?"

"Your guess is as good as mine. A whole group of people wanting to kill any gangsters is still no good here, let alone people with power. We could be looking at another gang war erupting from the inside. Or, we could be looking at someone who's taking lessons from both Jason and Bruce on going on the war against crime," Barbara hypothesis.

That theory wasn't greatly fond over Cassandra. To deal with someone that wanted to be like Bruce and Jason, or even someone who wants the underworld to implode all the more had Cassandra wanting to capture this foe before anyone innocent can get hurt. Yet then again, the gut feeling kept crawling back, the kind that beckon that maybe, just maybe, this murder mystery can give her what she wants.

A challenge, a real challenge.

To bury that feeling, she wanted to change the subject, "Kingpin is here."

"Peter brought me up to speed after he helped out Victor Fries," another monitor pulled up Wilson's record; he was a bald head man that was overweight, but his own physique work in favor into using sumo type of combat in some the images that was presented from old Gotham Gazette news report of his crimes being reported. In each other image, he's also portrayed as a man with a lot of wealth to his name, a woman who's usually right beside him, but also a man who's pocket run's deep enough that he even once had his hands wrapped around the underworld.

But nowadays his reign as the Kingpin isn't as big as it was. The years of him fighting against Peter, the Bat family, and the devil from Hell kitchen from New York put a stomp into a large amount of work he tried to do. And so far, it seems he's gone legit as a reform criminal that spent time in jail. Time away from his apparent sick wife, "He hasn't made any public appearances for a good three years due to time in prison, and now all of sudden he wants to go to Bruce's fundraiser."

"Fishy," Cassandra commented.

"Exactly what Peter said," Barbara said, catching Cassandra grinning to which caused Barbara to shake her head, "Don't start becoming a jester like he is."

"And if I do?" One eyebrow was raised when questioning Barbara.

"It doesn't suit you, trust me. Vengeance is supposed to be your shtick than being a comedically vengeance type," Cassandra couldn't help but snicker at the thought of screaming that she is vengeance like a roar in one of those movies she watched in the past.

She placed both of her fingers on each side of her head, replicating the look of her bat mask, "I. AM. VENGEANCEEEEEEEEEEEEE! FFFFFFFFFFFFFFEAR MEEEEEEEEEEE!"

Now Barbara joined in the laughter. It was good that at least Cassandra's lighter side was still intact. Sometimes she worries if she even has it these days with how focused she's been as Batwoman, that she doesn't let herself out of the costume, out of the cave, and be a normal citizen of Gotham. Barbara had to believe in large part, this had to do with Peter; always being there and always making sure she keeps being healthy both physically and mentally.

And then again, she's also doing the same, or as much as she can. Though, even though Peter is a bright spot in her life, Barbara doesn't have much to go on with how tightlipped Cassandra is about her relationship with Peter. And hopefully, she could be open about it, "Ok! Ok! I get it, people would fear a jester Batwomen more than a spooky one. Back on topic though, Bruce told me he tried to decline Fisk wanting to help out in the fundraiser, but the broads of Wayne enterprise didn't follow suit when he brought up his very sick wife. Add to the fact, most aren't confident with how Bruce has been handling things since Lucius death."

Cassandra found herself curious about what is going on with Bruce and his company, "Why?"

"Take a wild guess."

"Disappearing?"

"Yep. Just because he knows how to run Wayne enterprise doesn't mean he wants too. And without Lucius to keep things in order, things have been complicated."

"Peter would help..." She found herself frowning the second he said that, "...If he wanted...Too…Both are the…Same.."

Barbara's lime-like eyes drifted over to the young women near her. Hearing how her tone of voice shifted when comparing Bruce and Peter gave her the info she needed about their relationship, "He still wants to work at Gazette?" Cassandra nodded, "And you feel like you don't know how to navigate him into caring about who he is then just being Spider-Man huh?"

Cassandra didn't nod, but turned to the wheelchair bound woman. Barbara knew she caught on to what she was trying to do, "Stop digging."

"Sorry," She said, raising her hand, "Just trying to get help from a person who has known him for a long time."

Cassandra found herself sighing, feeling bad and having her expression reflect that, "No, I am," she said, placing her hand on her chest to clarify herself more, "...Just hard...He's the first...I've been...With the longest...And I don't know...To help him."

"Well...As I mention time and time again in the past, Peter is complicated person who has moments of improving himself, but regressing too," Barbara said, taking her glasses of briefly to rub her eyelids due to working on her computer for some hours, "It's not his fault because of how chaotic his life can get when his two worlds clash with one another on an almost daily basis in the past. Unlike any of us, he prioritizes both his normal and his adult life to such an extent that it hurts him both physically and mentally."

"But it's different now," Cassandra responded.

Barbara nodded at her comment, "True difference is that we really are all he has...Actually, you are all he has. He and I don't talk as we used to, only if it involves stuff like this," Barbara gestures to the killings on her monitor, "I doubt he talks to Jason as much since he's more withdrawn compared to any of us. I heard from Dick that while they talk, it feels more distant, and more towards a conversation just for catching up purposes. He's never been comfortable with Tim as much as he doesn't admit, and that does have to do with the fact he replaced Jason. I'm sure Stephanie try to talk to him-"

"She has, and he...Talks to her, but not for...Long," Cassandra added.

"Right, and that leaves Bruce and Selina," Cassandra would answer this by shaking her head, surprising Barbara, "Not even Selina?"

"Here and there…But like Dick, catchi..ng up…He makes excuses...But no...She with the Bat...All he...Has to do…Keep him…Check," Her eyebrow shrewd, noting of a conversation they had earlier, "...Wants me to...Fix my relation...Ship with him...But he doesn't want to do the same!" Cassandra lightly slammed her fist on the desk, "Hypocrite!"

Now there was even more writing on the wall between the two of them, 'So their relationship is unstable...Not too unstable, but the cracks are shown through and through,' Barbara mentally noted, "He's always had a very much complicated relationship with Bruce."

"I know. Don't see eye to eye but objective remain the same," Cassandra said clearly without stumbling on her words, having to do with her slight irritation, "Not fair for..Me to fix what's broken...And he doesn't do the same," Cassandra took a deep breath in, calming herself as she didn't want to talk about this.

At all. She wanted to keep it where it was at, private, and for her to deal with. But this is what happens when she talks to family, especially someone who once understood the meaning of the bat symbol.

It's nice to talk, but she's getting distracted as she goes back to focus on what their original topic was, "Think Wilson..Can be next?" She queried.

"Hmm.. I wouldn't be surprised. He, she, or they since it could be more than one person, probably wants to hit big soon. From the past murders all following on a holiday and each kill ranges from the likes of Falcone's, Russians, Japanese's, and the Hispanics? This would be it," Barbara felt her hand rub the base of her skill at the possibilities that could happen, "On Halloween of all times."

"...Invitation?"

Barbara shook her head, "I won't be in town at that time since I'm gonna spend time with my dad outside of Gotham," Cassandra said whatever cursed under her breath. If it was a more easy going time, she would make light of it, but that wasn't the time and she doesn't know if there will ever be a time like that again, "Should at least be back in the beginning of November."

Cassandra nodded rather solemnly, "Plan B, ask Selina," she frowned, since she was hoping she wouldn't have too.

"How come you don't want too?" Barbara ask, reading through her disappointment. Cassandra simply sigh and looked at Barbara, letting her read her expression once more, "..Ah..This is Selina Wayne Kyle Cassandra. She'll always be a part of this like it or not," Cassandra answer was another sigh and eyeroll, "What about, you know who?"

"Not him."

"Just a thought since it would be much easier for him to get you in, get to know the people, but…" Barbara watched as Cassandra moved away from the computer, going to where she had the space to begin her training, "But you don't want that. You know Peter has a point, sometime soon, you'll have to talk to him. And also learn to get out of your comfort zone when socializing. All this beating around the bush won't help regulate how you feel about him, or how to be better at communicating. If you wanna be better at being the only Bat, then you have to master the uncomfortable to be comfortable"

A small computer was brought up from the wooden floor, a few taps on the screen established the training she wanted to do today, "I'll talk to Selina," a device was brought up along with intricate wiring that looked to be applicable on the body from the ground. This allows Cassandra to put each of them on and then suddenly was put in a different environment that she set up for herself, "After I'm done with training."

Barbara could only shake her head as she got a notification on her phone that made her roll herself to a nearby elevator, "Just don't break anything when I'm gone again. Gonna have lunch with Ted before he leaves."

"Bomb training."

"That's not what my chandelier said last time!"

Cassandra only grinned before starting her training, 'Can't forget, take a break for lunch, and to check on Peter.'

---

Up by the north island side of Gotham, located at a borough that was designated as Bower, lies Gotham's leading newspaper industry known as the Gotham Gazette. This is where Peter was working at, and with his years of his on again and off again services, they were able to stay up afloat by anchoring their media through the internet instead of just regular old newspapers, radios, or tv itself.

Peter was at his own desk; it was small, the monitor taking up most of his space, he had some sticky notes as a reminder to do certain tasks that he has yet to do, there was also a picture frame by his desk that had him when was younger, wearing glasses, and dress rather baggy and unorthodox like, but beside him was an elderly man and women.

All three who had loving smiles, for a perish memory. They were also an everyday reminder of why he is Spider-Man, and why he can't give up being Spider-Man.

Peter's concentration right now lies on keeping the Gotham Gazette site up to date, making sure people who post their articles were edited clearly for people to read, and he shifted from tab to tab to organize more of the Gazette media. For what seems like the hundredth time today, Peter let out a sigh as he looked at the time, noting that it hadn't yet reached evening, and therefore, pressed on with his work. A work he feels has no meaning besides paying him so he can at least make sure Cassandra and himself are well fed. He felt his pants vibrating, checking to see who messaged him, it was the one and only Cassandra checking in on him.

This little distraction brought a smile to his face as the conversation went on.

BalletCass: Hey :)

Peter: Hey you ;)

BalletCass: Everything alright?

Peter: Alright as it can be, just doing the usual stuff in the gazette. Preventing site crashing, handling people's work, all the jazz and rooze of the gazette!

BalletCass: :/ Did you make it to work extra late again?

Peter: Even way more late with the bit of crime happening in the morning. Apparently one of those crime's I dealt with involved an escape attempt while surfing the train

BalletCass: :( Ever thought of working somewhere else? Somewhere you don't avoid it?

Peter: Most jobs I want requires me to actually finish college, and even then, I gotta keep Gotham safe in the daytime as well

BalletCass: And you don't want to go back to college. Why?

Peter: Waste of time, I'm right here where I should be. In the action, knowing what's going on, and being of use to people who needs it

BalletCass: I just want you to be happy at what you do v.v

Peter: I'm happy with you 3

BalletCass: Beyond just me, I want you to always be happy

Peter: I am happy where I'm at. I've always done real good here and I don't want to stop.

BalletCass: At the expense of you having no joy in it? I don't have to always be there to know you don't feel invested being there more so obligated.

Peter couldn't help but sigh at the honest to god truth behind Cassandra messages. It does get annoying with how pushy she can be in certain cases, but she does at the expense of care and speaks truth through her words, 'I started here to make some money for May,' his eyes drifted to elderly women in the picture, the one that was May, 'And while I move up in the world and more people counted on me both in and out of costume, it isn't the same as it use to be…. What do I do May? What do I do Ben?' He also addressed the elderly man with May, 'Do I choose to stay and keep up the work I'm doing, or do I be selfish to focus on what I want, what I need?'

'Do I focus my life on Peter Parker? Knowing full well it will go down hill due to me being Spider-Man? Or do I stay here, in a comfortable space where Peter has a decent job and that Spider-Man can't really ruin it...No wait...Spider-Man always tends to have some way to mock up Peter 's life...WAIT I'M PETER AND SPIDER-MAN!' Peter groaned at where his stupid thoughts were going. But all the more had to do with the fact that his headspace is simply lost and doesn't know which way is the right way.

Or to be exact, which way was a way where he can be happy, the people around him can be happy, and he can make sure it stays like that.

He knows it's impossible, but right now, he feels like his only option is to do nothing then something. Because he fears that doing something will cause something catastrophic to happen, he fears the comfort will go away, he fears that he will lose everything then he already had, '...God… I wish you were both here..Maybe you could tell me what I can do..Even though...I know you wouldn't let me stay stagnant as I am right now.'

BalletCass: You there?

Peter: Yeah sorry, just thinking to myself is all

BalletCass: Don't think to hard :‑P

Peter: I'm not. With you, I'm not.

BalletCass: I'm here if you need to talk to me I'll stop training to make time for you

Peter: Cassandra putting aside training for me? Who are you and what've you done with my girlfriend?! Is that you chameleon?! How'd you get my number?!

BalletCass: xD Mwhahahah I am vengeance! Fear me!

Peter: Oh god! The monster I fear for so long, it can't be! The travesty!

"Hey Peterrr!" Peter looked up in the midst of laughing at the conversation to find a dazzling woman with fine lipstick that was red as her hair, a touch of makeup on, one earbud in, casual gray and yellow business suit she wore, and the oh so curious gaze she found herself staring at Peter, "Something more interesting on your phone? I wanna know the joke too," She probes while leaning by the edge of his cabinet desk.

"Oh you know, just texting someone so I won't have to worry about the site wanting to crash again," Peter stated while moving his shoulder to block the view of his phone, getting her to pout with how secretive he is. He quickly texts Cassandra before dealing with his coworker.

"I know it's your girlfriendddd!"

"Can you not right now?!"

Peter: Vicki is here!

BalletCass: Good luck soldier :E

Peter: o7

As soon as he mentioned it, he checked to see if the site crashed, "Ok we're still good for the time being. Is Jameson gonna give us equipment to update the server?"

"He said by next week," Peter groaned, letting both hand smack his cheeks, letting it run down, "Hey you know how he rolls and he hates having to deal with this sort of stuff."

Peter leaned his head back on his chair, "I knowwwwwww. That's why he hired me in the first place."

"Technically you came in with pictures of Spider-Man that I couldn't get. And look how you turned out."

"An adult who finds misery in work?" he said with his wisecrack coming out on the fly.

"That, and you learn how to be an investigative reporter that helps while also being on the," Vicki looked around before giving out Peter's signature two fingers pressed down to the palm action when shooting out his webs, "Field."

Peter blink, not even reacting at her honest joke nor the twhipping sound she made before facepalming, "Kill me now because that was terr. I. Ble."

"Ugh whatever, anyhow Jameson wants you in the office for one of those meetings he's having."

"Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy. Yelled about my recent recording of Spider-Man, and I can't wait to hear him yell again," he said sarcastically, "Lead the way V."

She snorted, "Never a dull moment with you Peter. Don't change."

"But I wannnaaaa!"

"Then you won't be you now would you?"

She had a point, an amazing point that made him sheepishly rub the back of his neck.

Both coworkers maneuver past other employees when reaching the office of one J Jonah Jameson, the boss and overseer of Gotham Gazette who happens to have sides of his hair gray and the other part of his that was almost becoming gray. There also was a bushy mustache that Peter can't help but compare to Hitler anytime he stares at it, and as soon as the thought came back in his head, he put his hand to his mouth to hold back his small cracker, 'Jameson really needs to shave it off."

It also wasn't just him and Vicki in the office, a few other important members of the gazette were here too, "Everyone here?" He asked, "Good!" He said without waiting for a response. His voice was almost like he was shouting, but in actuality, he had to be loud to make sure he controlled the room he was in. After all, he was the boss and owner of Gotham Gazette for years and that calls for no inside voices, "Close the door Leeds!" The man that was Leeds did as he was told, "Alright, Vicki, what's the latest on this murderer popping about in Gotham?"

"So far GCPD still haven't gotten a proper ID on the killer," she explained, bringing out the notebook that had a list of things she carefully jotted down when going over the murders that's been happening, "Most of the bodies that were ID are all tied to a gang in Gotham. Commissioner Dewolff has been very tight-lipped on the situation, but what I have gathered was that these killings are starting to occur on holidays instead of random days. The first one that started on a holiday was Feast on St Roch, next one was on labor day, and the most recent one was yesterday on Columbus day."

"I heard rumors that it could be Julian Day back again," an African American who's age was shown by the known wrinkles on his face, "But you and I both know Jonah that Julian hasn't escaped from Arkham when he could've in the last riot almost two years ago."

Jameson sighed, having to be sitting on his table and lighting up his cigar. Soon enough, the room was smoky, having several people coughing and having Jameson eyeroll as he got up to open the window, "Sounds all too familiar Robbie. Murders on specific days let alone on holidays? Almost like its gonna be another long Halloween for that matter."

"I've seen some of those reports Jonah," the African American that was Robbie, who had his arm crossed by Jonah mentioned, "Way more vicious and personal than the one before."

"A vendetta and agenda?" Viki questioned Robbie.

"Spot on as always Ms. Vale," a simple wink was her response to his admiration.

Jonah both eyes roll and groan when taking a drag from his cigar, "Just what we need, another loose cannon in the streets dispensing his own sense of justice. What's new in this city anyhow..? Vicki, I want you to run the news channel again later since Ms. Grant called in sick today. We have to make sure that people know to get off the streets no matter if this killer is only going after mobsters and gangsters," Vicki nodded, "Parker!" The aforementioned hero quickly turned his head when he was pouring water in a cup from a dispenser nearby, "How's our site looking today?"

He took a sip before answering, "Hits after hits as usual ever since we converted more to social media. But the servers are still crashing and we need to update them Jonah."

"I got someone who's gonna handle it in a few days' time. You're gonna handle the camera again today involving our late night broadcasting."

Peter eyebrow raised, doing that would only mean taking away his time from patrolling the neighborhood, 'Sure, it's been quiet, but what I've learned in the 12 years of being a so-called "Menace," sometimes the neighborhood isn't always quiet. And with this killer on the loose for quite some time, I can't afford to be distracted right now,' a small little groan came out his lip, "But Jonah-"

"I don't wanna hear it!" He quickly interrupted with a shout, "This is what you get when you show up late!"

"My train was held by a lunatic's surf riding it!" He semi shouted back to the half truth, excluding that he had to handle them himself since the officers were having trouble even catching them.

"Another day of the ole Parker luck," he threw his hands in the air, irritated from hearing Peter's excuses, "Nothing's changed with you and I don't expect you either. You don't have nowhere to be, so quit whining!" Peter found his lip frowning, wanting to say more but instead took a drink out of his water and let his small scowl do the talking, "Moving on, you're also gonna be partnered up with Vicki for that Halloween costume fundraiser. And you better dress to impress."

Vicki put her hand to her mouth, snickering enough that Peter noticed and showcased his more noticeable scowl.

"Ben! I know you got something on Fisk so lay it on us!"

The man that was Ben rubs his brown beard while then adjusting his glasses before speaking, "For one, he's back in Gotham. I know from the boy's in blue back in New York mention that the Daredevil had been kicking his tush for some time. And then out of nowhere he confessed to the crimes he committed and was sent to prison for three years. I think he was only let go because his wife was dying, and it seems he'll likely be sent back to prison..." He cleared his throat, "Whenever she does pass. Also Jonah, shouldn't I be at the fundraiser?" Ben queried with his eyebrow raised.

"No I'm giving you a break," Jonah coughed a little bit from the cigar, seeing as how he didn't realize that he's pulling the dirt. He put out the smoke of his in the ashtray where a few more cigars lay there, "You've been chasing him left and right around the globe and only took him to confess to fully put him in jail. No, I'm gonna have you stick around Gotham. Go around the neighborhood, get words from folks about this killer running about, or also people's opinion on this dynamic duo of Batwomen and Spider-Man. I wanna make sure they are the hard truth; whether they're good for nothing heroes that only make things worse, or somehow they're making our city better than it ever was without the help of those other hero's related to the Bat himself."

"Jonah.."

Jonah put his hands up at Robbie, "I don't wanna hear it this time Robbie. Doesn't matter if most people think they are good. I want people to know from the streets of Gotham that they also don't promote the good of this city," His gaze was then removed from the workers that had their place in his building for years to look upon the city he lived in for almost his entire life. The city shaped him into who he is, allowed him to be the reporter, and no matter what, he made sure every single voice was heard in this city.

Not just one group, but every group, not just one difference of opinion, but every opinion. That was the point of journalism, to let the voice of the city be heard, but also to protect the city they all live in by addressing the problems that goes on, and how to make the city a better place to live in, "I mean… We're known as the one city to really rely on people with masks because of Batman. Not the fireman, not the police because god knows they still have cleaning to do on the inside, no, we had to rely on people in costume to save us. He started all this, and it's like we're never gonna have Gotham be free of vigilantism," He turns back to his place, where his voice became less loud and more along the lines of between sorrowfulness and sincerity, "We're never gonna have Gotham as our own to save, and I'm not sure if it's a good thing or bad thing."

The room was silent, not one had anything remotely to respond back to all that he just said. Like everyone, Peter knows those words come from a place he's only ever mentioned rarely if anytime at all, 'But its not his fault Jameson. When the people of Gotham needed saving they couldn't turn to their own neighbors or the people that were supposed to protect this city. If it wasn't for Bruce then Gotham would be in ruin. At least now, people have a chance to breathe in the city that's being cleaned. When will you realize people need heroes in masks? Not because they have something to hide, but they have people to protect above all else? But then again...You always had a complicated relationship with people in masks, and I was like that punching bag you always seemed to poke at,' Peter turned away as his thoughts became more bitter then he wanted them to be, '..I shouldn't even think like that. It's almost like that even if it's been a year since I got rid of the symbiote, its underlying ways of bringing out things that I kept to my thoughts are still unfolding, unleashing before me. I know these are my feelings and all, but it's hard to understand that I sometimes feel like an angry kid being angry at the world taking a lot for me,' Peter found himself looking at Jameson; behind the confidence he always exemplifies, behind the confidence was a man who doesn't trust those with higher power, or those that have something to hide. In doing so, it leads to anger when those people don't trust, and showcases at times that they aren't to be trusted.

That they can't save everyone as they want too, and therefore, become people to point the fingers on. Something has been used to for years, 'I guess Jameson and I have more in common nowadays compared to before.'

Noticing everyone in their own head, Jonah grew impatient of it, "Well what are you all standing there for?! You got work to do today! The Gotham Gazette stops for nothing!"

So he says, and so shall the employee's do.

---

Cassandra looks upon the East End side of Gotham. The streets had various people walking amongst one another, some joyful, some spewing hate to one another for competition reasons, and ladies lollygagging in the street causing traffic to be exactly so, traffic. This is what her eyes saw, something everyone sees on a daily basis.

But her other senses tell her a different story; the smell that grazes her nose, stench and alcohol that pointed to some homeless people in the street, then there was her hearing picking up the words people use.

Hate

Fucking

Bitch

Death

Kill you

God

Hell

All those words made her irk, to a degree, it wasn't as bad as some of those words involved laughter and such. Harmless words to them, but to her, some of them brought back memories of how the East End used to be, causing her to close her eyes, and tighten her fist. That same two fist she felt was still giving her a numbing feeling of hitting something hard, her knuckles being red while having the stain of blood, and she could feel the taste of metal because of the little cut she has under her lip. Even if it was healing, she scowled at knowing why she got it, 'Slow. I shouldn't be slow. Even out of costume,' she chastised, putting down herself in the process.

This was the East End of Gotham, residing in North Gotham, the one that represented the part of Gotham that needs saving, and more closer to the second island compare to where Peter's work was at. If Peter wasn't here to keep the peace and go in search for the killer, then she'll do it with or without the costume. The costume had more use in the night, striking fear when it was needed. It makes the criminals breathe easier when the sun rises. But even then, they still had to worry about Peter, or better yet her.

Because Cassandra never takes a day off. Because this city needs to be kept safe for those who can't defend themselves. No matter how different it had become over the years. The streets weren't as filthy before, more common folks can peacefully walk around, and sure, there were a few moments where East End became what it used to be like recently, but overall, it was wildly different from how others describe it, how Peter used to build a picture of how dirty it was.

Or how Bruce showcases how much this particular borough meant to him. One where he always finds time to pay the respect of the dead that he himself lost when he was just a boy.

Suddenly, she heard the door opening up, Cassandra's eyes opened and drifting to the woman she was meeting. Her form was slender, chin held high showcasing her strong cheekbone, short dark coal hair, yet long enough to have strands touch her eyebrow, greener eyes with a touch of eyeliner, lipstick on, and not to mention, she walked with utter confidence in who she is, no shame in showing her skin, belly out that showed how well tone her arms and legs were. Her freedom of expression displayed how much she works to keep herself in shape, but to also keep herself beautiful all the more as well.

For Selina, it was better to be someone you are then someone you're not. Something she lived by daily till this day.

Cassandra's eyes quickly went back to look at the street of the East End. She also noticed a few things from the older women; one, her face was passive, but with a tint of a curviness in her lip as she was glad to see her, two, she had bags in her hands and one of them smelled of food, making Cassandra tummy growl. And three, the way she was walking to her, taking her time, suggested that Selina wanted to extend however much time she can have with the younger women that sit isolated from everything and everyone.

In her eyes, she reminds her so much of the person she tries not to be, but tries to be better all the same.

From the sound, and the shadow present right by Cassandra, Selina was standing right above the ledge she was crouch on, "Let me see your lip," Cassandra didn't oblige, her stone face still keeping it straight, looking down the streets over the balcony they stand on, "Don't be like that firecracker," she saw the pout at being called a nickname she hadn't heard in a while. In a sense, this gave what Selina wanted, allowing to lower herself, move to be in front of her, and then raise her chin. She was inspecting anywhere else beyond the small swollen lip of hers, "Hold this," Cassandra held one bag, the bag that was light and had food. Selina placed the other bag on the ground, taking out alcohol and gauze. In doing so, she was gonna take care of the little bat since Peter wasn't here.

Something that Cassandra liked seeing in Selina was the control she had over her body, total balance, and having faith in her balance to stand on the tip of the edge right in front of her. Acting as if she couldn't just fall to the street below her, but she knows she won't. This was Selina in the nutshell, she would always land on her feet like a cat.

When she dabbed a bit of alcohol in the gauze and placed it on Cassandra lip, she didn't react nor flinch, she was strong enough not to react to something as simple as this, "Hungry?" She asked.

"No."

"Your mouth is quivering."

"It's not," quickly, Selina placed her ear on Cassandra's belly, hearing a small grumble by harden stomach, which only meant she was lying, "I'm not hungry."

Pulling away from her tummy, Selina gave an eyebrow raised at her stubbornness. In doing so, Cassandra looked away, letting her long hair hide her embarrassment due to the fact, her tummy growled louder. Selina couldn't help but giggle at her body saying otherwise, "Sure, try to lie to me when deep down, you can't ever do that with me."

"Bad luck is all."

"Ha, very funny seeing as Hardy is the one with the bad luck powers, not me," Selina frowns, pulling Cassandra chin back to the same position as before to take care of the cut some more, "If she even has that anymore that is."

Cassandra basil eye's found themselves looking back at Selina, noticing the frown, but how sad she looked, "You miss her..Why?" She curiously asked.

Selina took the time to process the person she hadn't thought for a while. At first she could only shrug till the reason came easy as she shrugged, "She was the only girl that took every lesson to heart, and used it against me. How could I not miss my protégé? Do I have to like her? No, but...I saw so much in me, through her, that allowed myself to get close even when I shouldn't. But I guess that was me growing soft, and poor Peter suffered the same fate."

Being reminded of Felicia once more was only serving to rub her the wrong way. How could her boyfriend and someone she saw as a mother figure, allow themselves to be around someone that brought nothing but bad fortune to them? Then again, if Felicia hadn't done what she did, then she highly doubt Selina would be who she is now, or Peter would look to be with her at all.

Selina would finish up, pocketing the gauze and put back the alcohol in the bag, "Besides something that happened well over two years ago, how are you and Peter?"

Cassandra would take out the food, wrapped in foil paper for Selina, and a platter of tons of food for Cassandra. Selina felt herself giggling under her breath of knowing absolutely that she was firecracker was hungry and ready to devour, "Good," she said as Selina sat more comfortably near Cassandra, letting their feet dangle to the streets below them.

Selina didn't like how short she made it out to be, a common thing Cassandra does to the few people she ever interacts with, "Just… good?" Her eyebrow was raised, she knows Cassandra is always short and straight to the point, but Selina wouldn't let her be short. Not with her at least.

Like some of the people in her life, Selina want's Cassandra to say more than less. With the fork in her hand, Cassandra stuffs some food in her mouth before answering, "..What else is there... To say? We're good."

Selina eye roll, "Good lord you're terrible at this. Things like this? Is why you and Peter work well with one another. You keep it short while he feels there's not much to say about what goes on with his life. But at the same time? What's the point of checking up on each other when you don't really get a feel of what's going on in the other person's life? Just only seem like you're here more for something else than to check up with me. To which you are," Selina spoke with no amount of bull shit behind her. Something Cassandra couldn't help but be annoyed at was what she was dealing with.

It's why she prefers talking with Barbara then Selina, because this is what she'll be dealing with, "Look I don't mean to get on your case firecracker, but you can't drop by one day like everything is fine and dandy. You have to call or text once in a while then hop by where I work and get my attention from my employee's. You're glad they're aware of who you are than those that aren't," she said, all with no anger at all. Just with an honest brutal tone to what Cassandra didn't want to have to deal with.

Yet here she was.

The place Selina mentioned was an apartment building with the title of East End Children's Home. It basks in neon light with cat's running along the wording, a creative input that was on the nose if Cassandra had anything to say about it. It was like a bright beacon for the East End, as it gives hope to those that need a place to call home if they don't have any, "Good thing I develop patience otherwise I wouldn't be dealing with kids a lot these days."

"..I'm no a-"

"I know, but to me? You and Peter act like it, more so than ever," she pointed out. It was then between there moment of silence Selina ruffled Cassandra's hair, causing her to look at her with a pout, "You know I love you, and I know things aren't what they used to be, but I just still want you to keep in touch. I know you do it to Stephanie and Tim, but do it for others too."

"Hm..Not Bruce. Not yet," she quickly said.

"I don't expect you to, and even he..." Selina paused, trying to formulate her thoughts when describing her relationship with Bruce. Eating, but also playing with the ring on her finger helped a little, "...He's trying, we have a lot of ups and downs, but he's trying to be better Cass," her shamrock look to her basil eyes, "Better for everyone."

Cassandra believes that, and she didn't need to read Selina's body language to know that. But it doesn't make it easier to accept what happened in the past, to move on from what happened with the choices he made, and how much she's been trying to wipe away the taint he brought on the bat symbol, "I know..." Was all she said as she used the usage of food to help remedy her uncomfortable feeling.

Selina frowns at seeing Cassandra shell herself up and not allowing herself to try to take a step forward, "So, what do you need firecracker?" She asked, changing the topic.

Cassandra took this time to stop eating, drinking some water, "Fundraiser."

"The one on Halloween? It's because of Fisk isn't it?" Cassandra nods, "Ok, but first, tell me what's really going on with you and Peter?"

"Selina..."

"Don't do that thing that Bruce does," Cassandra felt herself cringing easily, "You have so many habits that I wonder if you're really his daughter sometimes you know?"

"Mm...Not my fault," Cassandra would once more for today, sigh through her lip, "..It's going...It's good...But..." Cassandra licked her lip, letting her plaster sit neatly on her knee, taking the same moment to formulate her thoughts as Selina did, "...Could be better...He has...His issue's...And don't know...How to help him...Before it was easy...Was happy…Active…Not like he is…Now…Last year change everything.."

"It always comes down to that huh..? What Joker did to everyone…" Consciously, Selina hands touch her neck where behind the black choker she had on. She still feels it, the somewhat linear scar that starts from the tip of her chin, down to her neck, and almost by both sides of her jugular. A scar from last year when Joker got his hands on her, "What's worse is that I know he always eats himself up about that since he wasn't here. Thank god he has you at least," she said, bumping shoulders with her, "That's what really gonna help him out right now, or maybe...I don't know, if somehow he stop blaming himself for stuff out of his control...He's just as complicated as Bruce if we're being honest."

"Hm," Cassandra would continue eating, finding herself becoming a hypocrite of sorts to how much she was indulging in the past just like Peter did. Even if it wasn't her choice and the choice of others, she couldn't find the answer by digging through the past or bringing up their problems. This is why she wanted to keep quiet about it, because there isn't a solution from those who know him the longest. And she wants that, wants a solution to be able to somehow make him better, make him happy.

Because deep down, Cassandra feels she isn't enough to make him or keep him happy.

With all this talk about her and her relationship with Peter, she went back to eating, but also had shame brought onto her of not only being reminded of what Selina said earlier, but the conversation being about her. She had a point that her own selfishness wanted to come for something but don't give in return, to avoid being in a predicament that she was similar with Barbara. It's not to say she doesn't value the rekindling of this relationship, but there's a reason why to a point, she keeps everyone beside Peter at arms length.

To let them live and not let them come back into the life that hurt them, that scar them. And yet, here she is now not being able to stick with the goal oriented state she wanted for herself, "...How are you?" Cassandra asked, almost quietly.

But Selina heard it, turning a frown to a smile, 'Now that wasn't hard was it?' She thought to herself at hearing Cassandra wanting to prolong their time together, "Good. Work is going well. I never thought I would be happy taking care of rotting kids, but I am. Beats them being in the streets and beats them having to fend for themselves. Though, I know I can't save all of them, or keep most of them, but hey! One thing I learned from your boyfriend is to be positive with what life gives you, sooo…. This is me being positive!" She held her food out to the sky, as a way of toasting. In an odd response, Cassandra put her platter up to touch Selina's food, "...That wasn't supposed to be toast Cassy."

"Oh," she put back on her knees while being embarrassed by her action.

She shook her head, again giggling, 'How can this girl kick seven people's asses without looking, yet be innocent all at the same time?' A question she asks herself, but a question she will never get an answer for.

"..And Batman?" Selina wouldn't lie how she was surprised that Cassandra even asked how he was, "How is he? Besides...Problem with his company and such?"

She drank her orange juice before speaking, "..Doing extremely well as all things could be. Sometimes I find him awake at night, staring at the bat symbol. But so far," Cassandra noticed Selina playing with her diamond ring in her fingers again when talking about Bruce, "He's doing well, almost too well."

"Think he's faking?" Cassandra wondered.

Selina shrugs, "When Bruce fake's, he fake's. That was always the problem when he was out of that costume. Sometimes it's hard to read between the line's of him expressing real emotion or bringing about some utterly plastic emotion for the sake of saving face. And it's something you and him have in common for that matter," Selina caught Cassandra's puzzled face, "Out everyone else, the costume is who you are, and without it, it's hard to express who you can be without it. You have your moments compared to Bruce, but he's much more complicated in that area. He tries, tries really hard to be the real Bruce that he wants Gotham to see. But how can you be that person when all you knew for your whole life was to be someone who could save anyone from losing their parent's? Some people say Bruce is Batman, and Bruce is the mask, but in reality that's not the case. It's just that Bruce doesn't know how to live without the mindset of needing to use his body as a way to protect Gotham, and not with his head and lips."

Selina would stop for a bit, wanting to take more bites out of her food. The sun was getting lower and she knew their time together was slowly coming to an end, "He tries as hard as he can, but you firecracker? You're uncomfortable, uncomfortable sitting still here," she blinked, again getting confused at what Selina meant, to which she would oblige further, "You can't tell me you rather stay here, talk about whatever with me, then go back into finding someone who's about to get mug or rape down at the East End so you can beat the fuck out of them right?" She lightly elbowed her shoulder, something that Cassandra quietly acknowledged at the point she was making. And something Selina knew from the unanswered look in her eyes when peering away back to the streets, "When the night doesn't come, you ache for it to come back so you can wear the costume. The only few times you aren't as uncomfortable is when you're around Peter, drawing, training, dancing, and with the whole family back then. Without us and those things, you're uncomfortable to be like this. Doing nothing but talking, that isn't you, and you hate doing nothing then something. Unlike Bruce, you consider being the Bat your true self because you still have yet to realize the value of being normal."

Once again, Selina hit all the right buttons, buttons that Cassandra didn't want to be aware of. Because regardless of what, Cassandra was a nobody in this city, she had an identity of sorts she built over the years, but with all that happened last year it didn't. It didn't matter when the mad man took away everything that she made for herself right before her eyes.

But the Bat? The Bat itself was something that mattered more than Cassandra Cain ever could. A symbol that represents who she is and what she can do. Cassandra Cain as a person doesn't exist, never really in fact. She was born from two deadly assassin's, trained to be able to kill, and transform that into something more positive so she'll never be the person they want her to be.

In Doing so, becoming the Bat, and now being the only Bat, the Batwomen. It is who she is, what she was born to do, whatever else Cassandra Cain was to others simply only exists for a moment, "And you think that's bad?" She query.

The slight shift of Selina's lip and eyebrow had her thinking just a bit on that notion, "...Can be, at the same time, can't be. Gotham has the Bat, but what about you? What does Cassandra Cain want besides being the symbol of Gotham?" Cassandra put aside her food that she hadn't touched in some minutes, questioning the meaning of what she wanted.

'What do I want..? Beyond this, Batwoman… What do I want...? How could I know what I want...When this...Is all I ever wanted...?' She felt Selina hand wrap around her neck to pull her closer, "Don't answer that, not yet. I'm just being a mother in training."

Cassandra's eyes widened when she looked up to Selina. She wasn't bullshiting, and with how their conversation went from high to low, it made sense that is why she's the way she is now, "PREGNANT?!" She yelled for the whole borough to hear her.

A laughter came out of Selina's average size lips, "No! Not now though. But I wouldn't be surprise with how active Bruce and I have been since giving up our individual costume," the thought of thinking those things made Selina bit her lip just a bit, and enough where Cassandra looked at her disgusted, jerking away from her, "Oh don't give me that look!" She pointed, "You and Peter are probably just as active as us!"

Cassandra's face was red, embarrassed once again that she covered it up by going back to eating, "..Don't know what you mean….Either way, he's loving.."

Selina couldn't help herself gently smile with how soft spoken Cassandra was towards her boyfriend. But she also couldn't help but poke and prod at the relationship. After all, she doesn't always have days like this to tease her, "AH HA! So don't judge what Bruce and I do!"

Now it was both of them, the Cat and Bat sharing a laughter amongst the rooftop. When the laughter died out, the sun was almost gone letting night come through slowly and steadily, "I love him," Cassandra mentioned, her own smaller lips curved happily at thinking of the man she loves, "Loved him..From the beginning.. Before he noticed.. I loved him."

Selina snorted, "Obviously. You were so head over heels whenever I got the chance to see you. Hell, you were always jealous of the many women he was surrounded with sometimes."

"I wasn't."

"You were."

"...They weren't good for him."

"And you are?"

"I am!" Selina quirk her eyebrow at how boldly she said, one to which Cassandra put her hands by her mouth and turned away. Deep down, she felt guilty to say it in a way that made it seem like she was demanding, or rather, controlling in the way. But was it wrong for her to be someone right for him? Knowing he hadn't had someone right for him for a long time?

That person died in his arms, and while she knows she can never live up to what she brought to him. She only wants to be someone who's more of a positive influence compared to the others that Peter was with that were more negative then positive, "...I want to be right for him..." She slowly turned back to Selina, and for the first time in sometime, Selina saw more sorrow in her expression, one that Cassandra couldn't hide, "He deserves someone good. I want to be that..."

"..Is he happy with you?" She asked slowly.

"He's happy with me. I can tell. But outside of me… He's not," thinking of the way Peter is now only kept dwindling her mood. But again, she was being open and she shouldn't be. She should be somewhere else by now, looking for the killer. This made her again look away from Selina, "Shouldn't be talking."

She would look to get up, wanting to be done with this as she felt herself becoming emotionally too attached right now. But Selina stopped her, holding her hand, "Wait..!" She did so, allowing for her to talk as she looked at her mother figure, one who was better than the mother she knew of, "...Trust that he'll confide in you when things get rough, don't push his boundaries. From what I learn from the years of running in circles with Bruce, he had to want happiness, and hopefully, you want it too. Do you want that Cassandra?" For a moment, she thought of it, thought of it truly.

Does she want happiness? Does she want everything that comes with it? And what does that mean for her? For Gotham?

That's what it comes down to, for Gotham. To be happy means to let go of the need to save a city that is her responsibility. Or so that's how much Cassandra saw in Bruce with the years he dedicated to this city.

But then she's reminded that he found happiness even if he was the Batman. From his wife that Cassandra looked at, to the found family he once had, and to her especially. A daughter that in every way was him in terms of physicality. And just thinking of all those times that allowed him to be happy, is what made Cassandra nod, "At the expense of Gotham?" Selina would then bring up another question, one she knew was coming.

And sadly, she couldn't nod, "Has to be me...Only I can be the Bat..." She turned away from her, looking upon the city in front of her, the city she had to protect. And hearing the police siren means she has a duty to uphold, "I want happiness...But I can't choose it over Gotham Selina."

Selina did feel disappointed, because she's only reminded of her husband more and more, "Then.. It'll be harder for you to be happy with that burden you have on your shoulders. I just hope it doesn't all come crashing down on you like it did to him," They saw multiple police officers speeding down the street, something that made Cassandra flinch and get out of Selina's grasp. She watched from the balcony, studying where the car's going, "Go, you've got a job to do."

Cassandra turns to Selina, giving an apologetic expression, "Sorry..I.. enjoy the food and talk.."

She waved her off, "Don't sweat it. I got my time with you which made my day."

Cassandra smiled. She stood up from the balcony and ran along it in the opposite direction to jump to the next building. Selina sat idly on the balcony, watching Cassandra readying herself on the war on crime for another night, 'Like father like daughter I always say.'

Chapter 3: Reminiscent

Chapter 3: Reminiscent

October 31st

Peter had time. Time for himself, not having to worry about work, at the moment not having to worry about any crimes, and had time to simply swing. Swing freely around the gothic city he grew up in.

The ray of the sunlight basks in his every intricate movement in the air as he swung from the blocks of Miagani island and towards the bridge that leads to South Gotham. He wheezed past cars, buses, and trucks without almost a care in the world. Applying with his swinging was also his unique acrobatics that he used on vehicles, the streets, and even the peculiar buildings that differ from Miagani island when reaching South Gotham. Miagani island held skyscrapers, full of both company-like buildings, but also buildings to admire how far Gotham had come when building a better city. Yet south Gotham was a tad bit different; North Gotham had lower buildings, more close to the ground and having many ways for a normal person to travel on top of those roof's. Miagani island stands tall with not only skyscrapers, but skyscrapers of the future. South Gotham held both skyscraper buildings, one with older architecture work to it with certain buildings looking a little rugged but still stable, and leaning more towards the gothic past aesthetic that this part of the island is more known for.

Born and raised in Gotham, he knew the city like the back of his head, knew every corner, every street, and every place that stands out. He knew Gotham no matter if the years went by where things changed. With the ever present of him and Cassandra having a play into keeping this city safe, along with past works involving not only the two of them but the other people that was part of the Bat family, they all had their own hands on keeping the city safe and help shaping it to be a city to live in. Because of their efforts, the city has changed to become more of a decent place to live in. It still has its share of problems, but it's nothing that they can't handle.

Nothing he can't handle.

But just because it was more of a relaxing day for Peter, doesn't mean he should lay back and be relaxed. No in fact, he's doing what he always does; patrolling Gotham and keeping an eye full watch of the city while enjoying web swinging, 'Ah…Times like this its so therapeutic,' his hands threw out another web line, feeling it tug on the building, and the web supporting his weight kept from smacking straight to the ground, 'Just to swing without a care in the world, just for a moment,' he somersaulted off his web line to land on a building, crouching low on the tip of the edge as he look over the city he protects, 'Old Gotham has been quiet lately. Even with people in their costumes, celebrating Halloween, not much has been going on as of yet,' he took out his phone from his bag, seeing that it was only 12, 'And it's the afternoon. Should check up on Cass, maybe she took a break from training?'

Peter hands swipe through his complicated password to text Cass that was titled as BalletCass!

Peter: Hey! Gonna swing by soon, want some food?

Peter changed his position on the roof, sitting down as he both kept his eyes and senses on high alert while going through his phone. Seeing as she hadn't immediately text, meant that she was indeed busy with training. So instead as he waited, he went through his social media, scrolling past various people he recognizes and doesn't.

One of them was a red and blue man with a large S on his chest helping saving people, and treating little kids with ice cream, 'Ha! You go big blue! Always saving the day whenever and wherever. It's good to see you always doing your best, lifting people up, even with how your condition is.'

Next was two superheroes he knew full well; one of them wearing a blue and gold costume and the other wearing an all blue costume with the top half of his costume being darker than the lower area, "Huh..Interesting to see Michael have a podcast with Ted. Weirdly enough to see him and Bab's having a smooth relationship. I also believe he was here not too long ago from what Cass told me. Never thought the og could sweep Babs off her feet again.'

Peter would stop scrolling through his phone, looking at a particular post involving someone he used to know. Someone that both made him frown under his mask, but somehow was happy to see that he's doing well here. This person was similar in skin tone as Peter, but had brown short hair that looked to have waves from how it was. He was on his knees proposing to a woman with a smile plastered on his face, 'Sometimes it only felt like yesterday we settled in our dorms together, each planning big stuff for the future. At the very least, I hope you're really happy out there Harry with owning your father's company, and gonna be married soon...I just wish I could make you remember all those times we had together,' Peter's own head now regressed to momentary depression period due to seeing the old friend he can never have in his life, 'All those times with Gwen, MJ, and I. But I couldn't let that happen, not when it meant you'll go back to trying to finish your father's work. It's better you forget then to remember, that way, you won't be fighting so much with yourself or me...'

In his internal thoughts involving a friend he can't have in his life, his senses alerted him of danger nearby. Putting away his phone in his bag, Peter spotted a small batch of people taking out their guns when entering a small accessory shop, 'Oh boy…It's Halloween guys! Doesn't mean you have to be total assholes and rob a simple convenient store,' Peter would hop down to street level, flipping across the street and jog into a store that lit up a small noise, notifying the buglers to his appearance. They quickly turn around, pointing their guns at Peter, "Ah come on guys! I was gonna buy me a drink here because I'm practically dehydrated," Peter jested with his hands up, "Plus those guns make me scared because bullets would bounce off my costume, or at least I hope its regular bullets and not one of the alien tech from the likes of the Citadel."

The buglers, who had various masks that range from classic horror movies such as Texas chainsaw, Jason from Friday the thirteenth, and hero-like masks such as a green hood with domino mask, and one that resembles Cassandra, but more towards what Batman was. Peter read that most of them did not know how to handle this situation because of his sudden appearance, and his comical persona only made them perplexed if anything "..He ain't the real one right?" The one with the Batman mask questioned

"With how he's yapping he could be!" The green hooded one said.

"Did he just say he's bullet proof? Or what's that thing he said about alien tech?" Texas chainsaw ragged mask brought up.

"He could be lying anyhow. Hold up," the one that had the Jason hockey mask, switched targets to the shopkeeper, "You think he's the real deal?"

"I-I-"

Because his expression was hidden behind his mask, they didn't notice the scowl that became apparent the minute a gun was pointed to an innocent, "Hey I appreciate it if that gun was more focused on somewhere else then this kind man," Peter mentioned, his tone losing his light heartiness, "Guy has to pay bills and a family. And you won't like me if you even think of pulling the trigger."

"T-then, I'll keep it pointing at him!" Jason mask robber responded with only stutters and jitters with how tense Peter made the situation, "If you are as you said you are then back off! Before I put lead in him! We'll take the money and go, no one has to get hurt!"

While they didn't see this person, Peter did. Her long, curled, extravagant hair that was reminiscent of an alien friend coming into play and being the first thing he notice. She easily took a bottle of beer and smacked it on top of the robber's head, dismantling him with ease and having each robber turn to her. But Peter was quicker than any of them could ever think he would react. He shot his webs like an outlaw from an old western movie, hitting his mark in specific whether be it legs, wrist, hand, or body, the amount of force hit them hard that pinned to each section of the small store. And because of the force, it was enough to put them unconscious just like what the red hair women did earlier.

Only slightly less damaging.

With the situation resolved, Peter quickly went to check the store owner, "Heyo. You ok? I know this isn't something you wanted on Halloween and I hope it doesn't deter you to shut it down today Chris."

The store owner who was Chris' answer was a sigh of relief, "I won't, but I was hoping to avoid this again. Thank god you're always looking out for people like us Spidey."

"Ah shocks," Peter waved his hand at the added gesture, almost like he was bashful for the gratitude, "I simply try as much as I can."

"Try? Don't be so modest Spidey," Peter turned to her, feeling like it was a blast of the past at seeing this woman again. Beyond her red hair, her viridescent eyes were just as confident as ever was, only now more wiser, her small freckles that lace on the bridges of her nose and her cheeks, along with those qualities was a smile that only helped in her beauty. And while wearing a simple brown jacket along with a black long-sleeved underneath, brown pants, and black boots, Peter can't help but be baffled at seeing this woman today of all days, "Every once in a while you can boast how much you love helping your neighborhood. Since after all, it is what makes you so friendly and shocking when you're not."

Peter didn't know what to say, or more specifically, what he could say to this woman, '...Of all times...To see her...MJ again...My luck sure has its moments.'

"Oh.." MJ noted that she still had the broken bottle in her hands, one that she noticed how Peter looked to be staring at when he really was in shock to see her again after sometime, "I'm sober, two years since we last saw one another. Just needed to use it for a sneak attack you know?"

"Uh...Yeah..! But uh.." Peter cleared his throat before putting his hands behind his waist, "Gotta be careful Miss Watson. An attack like that can very well kill someone. Even if they're...I don't wanna say criminal..."

"They are."

"Yeah they are. Heh."

There was a moment of silence between them, and if it wasn't for Chris, they would've likely kept the silence between them as they study one another, "Uh you don't need to pay for that Mary Jane. I'll take care of it, and I'll make sure to call the police, Spider-Man," Chris said.

"Oh!" She gave him the bottle, "Be careful to not cut yourself, and can I at least pay for a water bottle?"

"Nope! You saved my bacon so it's on the house!"

"You sure?"

"Please take my kindness this once Mary Jane. If anything, you and Spider here always seem to go competition in terms of saving my business."

"Welllll," Mary Jane went to get her a water bottle before coming back. To distract himself without standing awkwardly, Peter made sure to check on the robbers, and also, changing whatever position they were in so blood doesn't rush down their head, "Can't help but care seeing as he rubs off me," the red hair woman gesture to Peter, "Thanks again Chris."

"Anytime," soon enough Peter came back to him, finding himself staring at Mary Jane walking and waiting to cross the street, "Beautiful as ever huh?" Peter didn't answer at first, "Well go after her!"

"Huh? Oh...Right, just trying to figure out what to say, but it seems I won't get anything done by standing around," Peter took a deep breath, and took a step forward, "See you again Chris! Happy Halloween!"

"Hopefully it's not another robbery! Happy Halloween!"

Peter took his time walking towards Mary Jane, mostly thinking about what to talk about or in general say along the way, 'Can't just say hi. Too normal. Actually, normal is the way to go. Mary Jane never minded me being normal, in fact! It's one thing she always looked forward to when talking to me...Talking normally, which is just me not being normal funny enough,' Peter silently groaned to himself, 'It really has been a while since we had that. May be good for the both of us,' He met up with her, towering over her as he was side by side with her. Unlike Cassandra, Mary Jane was a tad bit shorter than her, to which she had looked up to him as he looked down on her, "Surprise to see the superstar actor slash model back in the city, let alone Old Gotham of all places. And especially Chris store," both share a chuckle, "Ironic right?"

"Oh hell yeah it's ironic. I mean, what are the chances he gets robbed again, Halloween of all times mind you, and that we saved his bacon once again?! Ironic indeeeed," they cross the street together, taking their time on their walk as they converse with each other, "And Modeling? Please tiger, that's in the past which it seems you haven't been keeping up with."

"I have...!" Mary Jane raised her eyebrows, keeping her smile while waiting for a good response, "I just...You know," Peter found himself placing both of hands together behind his back, "Been busy," he didn't just walk normally too, moving left and right, and even walking backwards.

Conversation may seem normal, but he surely wasn't moving normally, 'Look at him, just like when we were college kids. He can't help but not walk normally,' Mary Jane silently snorted as she took a moment to drink her water bottle, 'It's good to see that something hasn't changed.'

"Understandable," she said out loud, "After all you're busy here, busy there, Spider-Man seems to be helping everywhere and anywhere these days."

"Technically no, since I'm not an active member of the justice league anymore," Peter sighed, and she noted that they were going into touchy territories.

Something Mary Jane wanted to stop dead center, "You don't need to explain, I know. It was my fault for not remembering before I said that. Two years of...Not being here and talking to you kind of made it hard to keep track of stuff. But it's just mostly me keeping busy and not wanting to worry about all the hero stuff. So as long as the world doesn't get blown up, then I could worry about taking control of my life."

"Which is cool. Very cool that you're doing so well with your career," they stopped at a cross light, seeing various pairs of kids trudging along in their Halloween costume based on the Justice league members that Peter was once more part of. The likes made up the core members such as the flying man that people called Superman, the retired Batman, and a woman who stands for peace and love but is not afraid to use weapons to bring it to front in center, that being Wonder Woman. Peter even saw himself too, to which the kid couldn't help but stop and stare, "Cool costume!" He said, giving him a thumbs up.

Being awestruck, he was carried away by his guardians. Mary Jane loves seeing that side of him, the caring and kind side that is a good representation for kids to look up to, "Should've given him an autograph."

"You know I technically don't do that right?" Mary Jane snorted at his comment, "But yessss..Technically I would do it for them if they asked."

"Exactly. By the way, I'm also filming some stuff here," she said as they continued their walk.

"Really?!" Peter walked on top of a nearby railing that cornered a small tree, keeping his balance with ease, "I thought people in Hollywood were still scared of shooting stuff here in Gotham?" He would hop off the railing, "They prefer filming in New York since Gotham shares a lot of it looks over there."

She shrugs, "Gotta be authentic with the criminal dramas. Plus, it's gotten safer over the years so people can actually do some filming here for once. But how about you? How you've been?" Once asking him of his well being, she noticed how he kept himself aware of his environment, always on alert and searching around for any sort of presence or danger that was nearby he had to stop.

Lucky for her, it seemed to be quiet today in Gotham for the time being, "Oh! uh.. You know," Peter mimics Ms. Watson action from earlier, casually shrugging his own shoulders, "Same o same o," Ms. Watson quirk her eyebrow up at his direction again. It couldn't just be simple as he claims it has been. Peter noticed her slight reaction, "What?"

"Just, same o same o?"

"My life isn't super interesting MJ, never has been."

"Hmph," she opens her bottle of water again, taking a sip before they both cross the street, passing by teenagers with their own Halloween costumes. One of them especially was similar to Cassandra's Batwomen costumes, giving Mary Jane an idea to talk about, "Your life always has something going on. Likeeee...How are you and Cassandra?"

"Good, great even," again, Peter saw the look MJ gave him, and he groaned, "MJ I'm telling you, there isn't much else to say. We're still together, still partnering up to take care of Gotham, and I'm also trying to think about what food to get her. Though if anything, I'm actually surprised you want to know how she's doing. Since you know.."

"Yeah yeah...I know, wasn't..." Mary Jane let out a breath of air, recalling how she used to be but also how she was towards Cassandra, only serving her to cringe at her past actions, "I wasn't great to her, and saying sorry to her the last time I saw her wasn't good. And I could only make it brief because I didn't want to be a bother."

Peter shook his head, "You weren't a bother Mary Jane, I appreciated you being there when I bury May. Cassandra felt different, but that's her, not me. She doesn't know you like how I do, and while you definitely could've been a better person-"

"Much better without going back to drinking and using drugs," she added.

"You still apologize to her, and look to clean up your act. To which, look at you! Your literally glowing," Peter complimented.

"Careful, some may take that the wrong way," She jested, and it only made Peter chuckle at her quick wittedness, "But thank you, I really needed to get better, and I know somewhere up above, Gwen beat the shit out of me again."

"Or became a ghost and did it anyway."

"HA! Likely for sure. Still working at the Gazette?" She prodded, changing topic on the fly.

Peter nodded, "Sometimes anchorman, sometimes journalist. All that jazz."

That last part simply had MJ shaking her head with how uninterested he sounded, making her slightly frown, "You should get out."

"Don't want to really."

"Peter.."

"MJ please, I'm happy where I work. Don't worry about me."

Giving him a once over, she left it at that. However, something oddly struck in their moment of silence, making Mary Jane giggled, "This can't be how old friends reconnect? Jumping from topic to topic. Ranging from normal, depression, outrages, to even nostalgic."

"To be fair, the idea was to keep it normal since I know you love my more normal talk."

"But you never were good at normal and I just rolled with it. In a sense, this is our normal anyhow. Always has been."

Right..." Another silence came between them as they walked. It was good for Peter to talk to an old friend, but also, not have to worry about being a hero. Sure, people recognize him, he gave high fives, fist bump, and even Mary Jane help take pictures for him. To a degree, she also join in since people recognize her as well. It was very calming for the two of them, and they didn't need to force themselves to talk about something or anything.

They were just comfortable to be around one another again. And that comfort help bring up old feelings, feelings that were complicated indeed, but neither of them focus on the complicated part, but the good, more positive parts. Soon enough, Mary Jane and him reach the building that she was living in, a little run down with a homeless guy sleeping near the place. Peter, a kind hearted person, took out a few dollars from his bag and gave it to the sleeping man, "You know, to think because you're an actress, wouldn't you be more in favor of living a bit up north? Since it's not close to blackgate prison, or is it somewhere with more security? I know it's not you but-"

"It's home, no place like it," Mary Jane said, taking out her keys and going to open her door, "It's the kind of place you can't see anywhere else to live in. And when you live in so many places that are better in general, you're still not safe anyhow. At least here, I know that, and I can always whip out a gun if it ever came to that."

"I never was fond of you carrying a gun."

"It helped in the past did it not?"

"True...Thank god for Gwen teaching you."

"Yeah," Gwen being brought up made Mary Jane's smile more melancholy, and she could assume it was the same for Peter, "I still miss her a lot, even visited her grave when I came back here. Sometimes I wish I could talk to guys like Doctor Fate into some way of talking to her again."

"They wouldn't do it anyhow," Peter mentions when leaning to a nearby wall, "Magic users like Doctor Fate don't play with the dead and feel having a connection to them would bring chaos in general. Something he told me in the past was that in general, we all have one life here on this earth. And if those who are special to us die, then we have to respect that. There's no do overs or bringing them back to life. Because if they are, then they wouldn't be the same person."

"Right...Right," she sighed, Mary Jane didn't bother opening the door as she wanted more time with him. She leans similarly like him, hoping he doesn't mind her wanting to talk a little longer, "Somehow, I prefer the old costume."

He titled his head, "Really? I think this fit as a sort of evolution. I mean the pants and boots make its odd when it clashes to the vested part," he taps each part of his costume when gesturing about them, "But it's like...After all I've been through these 12 years of being who I am, this is the me now. I no longer wear a spandex suit, I wear something more protected, more comfortable, and..More approachable you can say, like I'm just like anyone else under this mask."

"But with spider powers."

"Ah, just a bonus! Likely anyone can get spider powers these days."

"But to some extent, it always revolves around you."

"To a degree, but it's mostly the cloning part if anything."

"Have you talked to them? Any of them actually?"

Again, Peter found himself shaking his head, "Not since 2 years ago after May passing. I...I rather keep it like it is, to just be the original and only Spider-Man in my head. Not having to think about whether there are others like me, or others who want to be like me in some form of another," he admitted.

It only seems to further make Mary Jane feel sad about Peter's position. As her life has gone up, it only seem his life has been going downhill. And the only thing she could do was to touch his hand, hold it, to at least bring some comfort that it will get better. But then she stopped herself, keeping her clapped hands together by her body, 'Leave it where that's at MJ...You can't have him, or try to have him...He's with Cassandra, she'll do the comforting part, not you.'

Silence rains on them once more, a bit uncomfortable due both parties being in their own head. What's so similar between the two whether they say it out loud or not, they too struggle with their past, struggle with moving forward, and to a degree, even struggling accepting who they are. While they're trying to move forward, something is making them stick in the position they're in.

Overall, having them stay stagnant.

The two may be older, wiser, more experienced, and less raw and young as they were, but they're both in a limbo of unable to move forward properly. Mary Jane's feelings for Peter are still there, still prominent, and she doesn't have the will to go into her house and go on with her day. Meanwhile, Peter wants everything to stay how it is, and not do anything to make it change or make everything become uncomfortable again. It's here in their silence, they connect, they understand, and they don't have to look at one another's eyes to see it.

They feel it, they embrace it, and they let the scenery around them give it peace. Halloween was able to give something they never expected, a peace of mind, but also a reminder of how much they miss one another.

But life goes on, it must go on. Peter heard his phone ringing, he went into his bag and took it out and saw it was Cassandra calling, "Bonjour Belle! Comment Ca va?"

Mary Jane did a double take of hearing him speak French, a little snort came out of her lip with how well it sounded, 'Must've been practicing to not be as broken as before.'

Mary Jane can also hear a familiar voice coming from his phone, "CHICKEN WINGS! GHOSTPEPER!" Hearing Cassandra made Mary Jane's heart crumble. She knows they were on borrowed time, that something will make their moment they have not last forever, but it still hurts. And it hurts a lot when it involves Cassandra, yet Mary Jane won't let envy control her.

He chose her at the end of the day, and she can't have a repeat of the last time from how she felt when they're relationship started, "Ok ok! Not even how you are or something? Just straight to food?"

"YES! FOOD! NOW!"

He sighed, if anything, hearing their interaction, and seeing Peter's body language made Mary Jane chuckled, "Fine! byeeeee!" Their call disconnected, "Oi..She can be so demanding sometimes. But you know what? It's what I love about her."

"You told her that?"

"What?"

"The love part silly."

"Uhhhh...Kind of."

Her eyebrow shrewd, "What do you mean kind of? You both have been together for two years and you haven't said I love you to her?" She questioned, but then something dawned on her at how Peter looked away from her, "Oh my god," her eyes widened, "YOU BOTH HAVEN'T SAID IT?!"

"Hey! Keep it down!" he said, shushing her aswell.

"Pe-"

"Nope! Don't say that!"

"Ugh!" Mary Jane eyeroll and brought her arms together, she hated that she also had to be aware of his identity, "You have to tell her."

"It's more unspoken! We know we love each other anyhow!"

"Dumb ass! It's better to say it in front of her!"

"Well..!" Peter still didn't keep his eyes on her, more towards the step they were on, "It's complicated right now, and I don't feel like it's a good time right now."

"Then when will it be Peter? Nothing ever can be a good time. The here and now, the present! Remember what you just said, one life, that's what we have."

"I...I know..I will, eventually. Either way, I gotta make sure she's fed otherwise she'll kick my ass."

Mary Jane wanted to continue their conversation, wanted to push Peter into at least having this thought more into his head. But, it seems she has to leave things to be, and she can only hope he realizes that there's no time but the present to tell her now then later, "Right...It was nice talking to you again."

"Yeah, real nice," Peter threw a web out to a nearby building, "See you around?"

"Don't be a stranger," she said, with a small smile coming back to her lip.

"I won't."

Peter swung away to where he had to go, to the person that Mary Jane couldn't match in either skills or bonding. And now that he was gone, the clock went back, her life would go back as it should.

Though Mary Jane is glad about something at least, 'I'm still very glad he's with someone, way longer than others he's with. She's no Gwen, but it seems she's been very good to him.'

---

Peter drops into the clock tower, finding his girlfriend doing her usual thing in her second home. Cassandra was practicing in the VR A that Barbara made for her that she doesn't have in the Bat cave. Or at least, Peter hasn't made it when he should've anyhow. She was in a pocket space, one where the VR was placed on her face, but also had wires and mechanics placed on her so it allows her to move in a stationary position.

Yet jumping around tends to cause problems. While the wire and little mechanic tie her in place, jumping and flipping causes it to move, not breakin it, but definitely allows the wires to criss-cross one another. Due to it being in VR, Cassandra's feet got caught in the wiring, and while flipping herself to keep balance, her body crashed near the cabinet, and she wasn't aware of a book about to fall on her head by a cabinet.

Luckily, Peter caught it swift and easy, "Might wanna to be careful," he whispered in her ears as he put it back where it belonged. For a second, he heard her breathe hitch from his voice, her lips grinning, and cheeks a little flush. This was the only time he can ever surprise her of his appearance, "You know how Babs feels about you causing a mess when training in her watchtower."

A small snicker came out of her lip as she pressed a button that turned off the green hue of the VR. She took it off, letting her ebony hair let loose in freedom then the claustrophobic space it was in. She quickly gave Peter a chase kiss since his mask was off, "Food?

He quickly pouted, "Is that all I'm good for?"

She tapped his lips with her finger, "Yes."

"Then terrible to say, but I didn't get anything," he tapped her nose in response.

"Lies, smell it in your bag."

"That's just my old costume that I have to wear for the fundraiser today," he said, trying to be deceptive but it didn't make his girlfriend budge, "I see we're at an impasse since you don't believe me."

Cassandra now had a fierce look against Peter's little smug look, "Give. Me. The wings."

"Make. Me," he mimicked and challenged.

And then suddenly, Cassandra tried to reach the bag behind his back. Peter quickly hopped back. Cassandra tried cutting him off, but he flipped himself on top of a library full of books. Cassandra quickly uses a couch to give her the leap needing to be on his level. Peter made it harder as he jumped up to the higher level of the clock tower, landing easily on the railing. For Cassandra, she easily jumps to one of the clock towers working mechanics, just before it could move, she pushed herself off to reach the ledge she needed to be at, flipping herself on top of the railing across Peter.

Peter watches her, in all her glory with his smug look still on display against Cassandra's fierce need to get the food in his bag.

Cassandra used the nearby chandeliers to swing over to Peter's direction. Peter would bend his back to avoid Cassandra's tackle. Peter didn't need to keep his balance since his abilities allow perfect equilibrium. Meanwhile, Cassandra had to regain balance quickly, using both hands to keep herself on the railing, being in a handstand position. Peter gestures for her to come at her with a simple wave of his hand. She did so, standing herself up, back flipping to him and tried reaching for the bag. All Peter had to do was swat her hands away while backing up. He even had his other hand behind his back as she switched his defense mannerism to one of offense related to fencing, "On guard!" He shouted as he backed up Cassandra, having to evade and deflect his oddity to keep her away from the food.

And with anything involving food, Cassandra would fight tooth or nail for it. Nothing will ever keep her from eating food that she desires. She backed up for some space, ended up mimicking him, one hand behind her back, and the other to reach for the bag. They put their hands forward by their nose, bow, "Food will be mine!" Cassandra affirmed her desire.

"Come try and take it!" Peter challenged.

And before they knew it, they were at it again. Both move with flow, speed, precision on the railing while trying to get the edge over the other. Regardless of what, the two were smiling ear to ear, enjoying their time together, enjoying the oddity of essentially dueling with their hands. It was exactly what Peter needed to not think about anything involving the past or trying to protect Gotham from when the sun goes up to when the sun goes down. It's what Cassandra needed instead of constantly training, and constantly always spending her time as Batwomen. It was also training for them in a way too, but it was all fun with it.

Something they haven't done in sometime, and it only seems to come out at the randomness of times. But neither of them would bring it up and focus on the here and now.

Cassandra pushed Peter to a corner, but he knew of this, so he decided quickly to jump over her. In his movement in mid air, she tried reaching for the bag but he quickly swiped her hands from touching. He wagged his fingers, getting her to giggle, as she then ran to him, going for a jump that Peter was ready to deflect or move, but instead did nothing of sorts at all but be in front of his face.

And gently grabbed where his private part was. This touch sent shivers down Peter's skin, causing him to freeze and even made his cheeks red at the boldness of what Cassandra was capable of doing. Seeing the response she got, she went to take the bag from Peter, but in doing so, Peter brought his lips into Cassandra's own, allowing them to have a heated exchange in terms of making out with one another. It got to the point Peter held her close, allowing the both to fall where he flip himself and her to where he landed on his feet, and had her in his arms in bridal form. He gently laid her on the couch, continuing their kissing as Peter felt up Cassandra breast, causing her to gently moan.

A bit of payback on Peter's part as he chuckled in between the kissing as he pulled away. They stared at each other, hazel eyes to basil eyes, none of them said anything to one another but being enamored with one another. As Peter mentioned to Mary Jane earlier, they didn't say I love you, but their body language says otherwise. Everything they do for one another on a daily basis is because they love each other and they'll never do anything to harm one another. They both know what they've been through to get to where they are, and they know one and the other has to work on things to be better, yet they still love each other.

It's something Peter wanted to say, to say the three words to her, but he doesn't. Hilarious enough, Cassandra noticed his slight hitch or rather, hesitation in his expression, "Something the matter?" She genuinely asked while stroking his bread.

He didn't answer, not wanting to reveal his deeper thinking at this time. Instead, he gently rub her hands that were by his beard, kissing it and kissing her, "Tu es belle," he flirted in another language. She took in stride and pleasure as she often loved when Peter complimented her in another language. It made her feel special for him to study another language and to say similar stuff in English, and say it again in another language. What makes her feel more special is that he shows those same romantic through body language

From how he held his gaze onto her, how he gently took care of her, how much he kissed her, how much he kept himself close to her. He does all this through her first language.

They sat up, Peter taking off his vested suit that let him be bareback as Cassandra took his bag, and took out the food for the both of them. She also got a glance at the old red and blue costume with a mask that was connected to it. She knew he wasn't lying, but to see it again reminded her of the old days, 'First costume...The one I first met him with..' She took it out, wanting to see it fully.

As soon as Peter ate, his eyebrow raised at his girlfriend who put his costume close to him to see if it even still fit. While he was able to wear it for years, right at this time Cassandra quickly saw how muscular frame made the costume look smaller than it was design to be, "I think I still make it work," he mention to Cassandra unsure expression

"Err...Sure?"

"Well, one way to find out," he stood up, putting his food down to the side while taking the rest of his evolved costume off that being his pants and shoe, and looked to put on the older costume from head to toe. The older spandex suit did in fact fit on him, but Cassandra had to hold back a laugh. It was due to the fact that the suit was stretching a lot from Peter's body being very muscular. He sure was no Superman, but compared to his younger years, and all the battle and the hard work he's done to his own body, it not only adapted to his growth, he took a lot of care into being the best it can be, "Yep! Still fits!" He said while stretching and did a front flip too. Which he shouldn't have done when a sudden tear was heard. Peter stand still, slowly looked at his girlfriend, "Don't-"

She burst out laughing, seeing it tear by his butt of all places. Peter sighs while scratching his hair, he knew his luck can't always be a hit, and today was no different. He back flipped to sit on the couch where Cassandra was already stuffing herself with hot wings. She would kiss his cheek to remove his grouchy features, "I'll wear mine too."

"The old one?" She nodded enthusiastically. Peter then suddenly had a fixed expression, "I have to sew that up too don't I?" She again nodded, and Peter again sighs, "The things I do for the girl of my dreams," he too started eating some hot wings, and unlike Cassandra who ate it without a care of the world, Peter had to drink a bottle of milk that was in his bag to lessen the heat, "God! How can you ever handle this stuff?!"

Cassandra simply grinned, "Train in the art... Of eating!"

"Har har har.. You're not funny, Miss Cain, especially when you think you'll have me fixing your cowl of yours. That is forever gone."

"Dick's mask!"

"Huh.. Touché. Should be somewhere around here that I will look in a bit. By the way, Mary Jane is back in town," he mentioned as he went back to eating. Cassandra briefly found herself a bit bug eyed at hearing her come back to town, "I know, your not fond of her-" she scoffed and eyeroll, it being the half of it of what went on between them in the past, "But, she's cleaned up, two year sober, and seems to be doing even more well in her various acting gigs."

"Good for her. Don't care," with the red hair being brought up, it only served to spoil the mood between the two and Cassandra kept her eyes more on the food she was eating.

Something Peter was very aware of, "She isn't here for me, more so for her-"

"How you know? Could be here for you," she pointed out, "Just you. Nothing else," her tone now sounded more pessimistic than it usually does.

Then again, the one problem Cassandra has with Peter was his ex's. Maybe not all, but a few she knows like Mary Jane and Felicia rub her the wrong way in different areas. She was hoping they stay away from Peter, but somehow, either they're energy, or the person themselves seems to come back. And Cassandra hated it. Peter eyebrows knitted together at her statement, the tone sounded more envious then she wanted to let on, "I doubt that Cass. Mary Jane and I hadn't talked or seen each other in about two years. And you know why she came back to Gotham the last time she was here."

She did, and now she regretted feeling a bit envious towards his friend, a frown being prominent, "May."

"Exactly. Plus, she is my friend, the only few normal friends I even have that are alive," Cassandra didn't like where this was going, that Peter would drift to every now and again, "And if she wanted to see me, then there shouldn't be a problem with that. We're just friends Cassandra, always have been regardless if there could've been something to have," he said with clear displeasure of Cassandra's jealousy over nothing at all.

She already misses their play fight from earlier, the warm feeling of his smile and how he held her instead of now feeling how distant he's becoming. She quickly grabbed his hand, held on to it, consoled him, and kept her eyes fixated on him as she felt her brow lower, "Sorry."

Now he too felt bad, his eyebrow softened since he didn't exactly want to be cold in his speech. But it did unnerve him that Cassandra felt that way about Mary Jane. It makes sense for Felicia, but Mary Jane was different, "..Look, I know she rubbed you the wrong way in the past, especially when she argued with you as she got back to drinking. Hell, Felicia did the same in her own way that same year. But I don't have those feelings for Mary Jane anymore. We could've had something, yes, we could've been something more than friends after what happened to Gwen, the earthquake that made Gotham no's man's land, me getting clone, various fights that had me going to different planets, to different dimensions, and hell of all places. Yes, something could've happen, but it didn't and it never will because of us," he squeezed her hands, just a bit, "We happen, and I don't regret our relationship went to new territory after the afterparty of your birthday," thinking of that particular memory, made both of the hero's smile, "You know? When you were drunk and all."

A light tint on her cheeks occurred, from that memory, "Stoooooop!" She shouted in full on bashfulness. But it wasn't just that too; the way he always says those things about her, about them, and now kissing her all over her cheeks? It still had ways to make her heart race. She went to hug him, wanting to show how sorry she was to even feel that way "Sorry."

"Hey no worries," he gently rubbed her back and kissed her forehead, "I'm just glad I can avoid eating hot wings for the time being."

She glowered, breaking the hug, looking up at him in shock, "Finish it! NOW!"

"Make. Me."

And there it was, the same thing as earlier, the same feeling of challenge, and warmth. The kind of thing that keeps reminding her that Peter, with all that he's been through with other women, no matter how small, has eyes only for her. She hopes nothing else would break.

But just from them moving and bouncing around, she got a laugh at Peter's old suit ripping even more.

---

Like every other day that passes by, time keeps moving, not stopping for a single bit for anything or anyone. Cassandra and Peter had departed from the clock tower to do their own individual things. Peter was busy keeping the peace of Gotham as ever before going to the fundraiser, while Cassandra went looking for clues on anything involving the holiday killings that's been happening.

Though sadly, she hadn't found anything and to her end, it only established her lack of detective skills compared to her predecessor or those similar to him. After sometime, she would meet up with Selina seeing as the fundraiser was a place Cassandra would rather not go in by herself. It wasn't because she was afraid, Cassandra doesn't fear much of anything, but she wasn't fond of being surrounded by the rich, the wealthy people she doesn't know, and don't want to know.

But sadly, she knows too well from a single movement, or a simple word they say. She may not be the greatest detective, but when it comes to deducting people in general; whether their intention's, desire, who they are, Cassandra can figure it out just from looking. She was taught to do that from a very young age, and it's something that never could leave her no matter if there were moments in the past where she lost that capacity briefly.

Though, upon going into Selina home that was in the East End district of North Gotham, she didn't expect to be sitting down on a bedhead, scowling at the mirror in front of her, petting a cat on her lap as the more older adult behind her was braiding her hair, "Stop being grouchy," Selina voice, "This may be where the rich goes to yap about who would outbid the other, but I'm not having you look like that," Cassandra hates when Selina gets like this, wanting to have her standout then she already is.

Selina of all people is standing out with a vintage violet and ebony cat costume, one that covers her body in violet, yet the legging and her hands were covered in black. Oddly enough, Cassandra knew the gloves in her hand can poke out claws, though she doesn't know how she could do it. She never exactly saw this costume before, but she knows that this was something she used to wear in the past.

One that involved her with the Batman.

Meanwhile, Peter managed to sew up her old costume before they departed; it was less advanced, had less dense materials because of years of being used up to a point it was no longer in use. He couldn't get the cape to be as long as it was in time so it stopped shortly by her upper back, and some pieces that did have armor stood out more with scratches as well as having wear and tear, and her bat symbol was the one to suffer the most. It barely was there in the first place, only the tip of the head, pieces of the yellow and black wing can be made out as a bat costume. And like she said what she was gonna wear, she wore a half domino mask instead of a bat cowl. She thought she looked fine enough as is before coming to Selina's home. Now she had some makeup on, lipstick, and getting her hair done like she was a doll, "How long?" she mauled.

"In a minuteeeee! Be patient firecracker," Selina knew she could do more with her hair, but she resided in simply braiding her hair in a vertical fashion, almost like she was that one Disney character, princess Rapunzel.

Except her hair could never be as long as her.

"And done!" Cassandra would quickly stand up, putting the cat down gently, and headed out the apartment, "God damn it girl! Wait for me! I still have to get my-," Cassandra didn't hear as she already was at the door, allowing the older woman to groan. Selina didn't even get time to at least pet her few cat's before they left the apartment building. She only could simply get her purse she wrapped around behind her and car keys. Cassandra was first to enter the car while Selina was the second, "You do know you look like a proper woman now right?" Cassandra held her scowl, put on the seat belt, and arm-cross. She also indeed had a pout on her like she was a stubborn child not wanting to deal with their parents, "Beautiful that can have the looks to wipe most men off their feet," she still didn't answer once the older adult started the car, "Plus Peter probably would take you away from the place for a little roof-"

"Selina stop!" Cassandra perished whatever Selina was going to say next, causing her to laugh as she started to drive. What was so ironic about Selina is that not only does she work by the East End side, she lives there. She lived all around Gotham in the past, never staying in one place because of her old line of work tends to have a few of those places getting exposed by bad people. But as she put that past behind her years ago, she decided to make a home in a place she can never truly escape from, but somehow make it a better place to live in. She made it her own responsibility to look after the borough that had played into transforming who she is, but also her husband as well.

And even he can't escape from the East End.

Cassandra couldn't help herself to stare out the window as they passed by blocks and blocks of the East End district. She was keeping a watchful eye of the streets even if she didn't have her primary costume on, "Anything I should be worried about today? Guns? Violence? Super power folks?" She query without looking at Cassandra.

"Anything," Cassandra simply replied.

"Ok so I'm going in as dark as you," she clicked her tongue, a normal situation that she had been accustomed with for as long as she can remember, "Neat."

The car ride was silent when they passed through the bridge leading into Miagani island. Every now and again, Cassandra would move around in her seat, tried distracting herself by cracking her knuckles and fingers, or kept her eyes in the boroughs they passed by. Deep down, Cassandra wasn't used to being in more civilized transportation for some time. She can't remember the last time she was in a simple car such as this, or actually, she can. But that seemed so far away that she didn't want to recall at this time.

Recalling those more specific memories, means feeling certain emotions that makes her miss the people who weren't in Gotham anymore. And so, she buried those particular feelings away and kept her mind focused on what lies before her.

"I'm assuming Peter would be late?" Selina said, having her hand by her cheek as she reached a stop light in Miagani island.

She checked her phone that was snapped in her utility belt, texting Peter of where he was at.

Cassandra: Location?

My amazing bf: Exactly where I'm at! :)

Cassandra: 3

"He's there," she said while putting her phone away.

"And what's got you nervous?" Cassandra gave Selina a perplexed gaze. She didn't feel nervous, nervousness involves the body heart rate rising, slight trembles in one's body, and even a bit of stuttering in tone. She felt calm, focused, nothing was making her nervous, but she did feel uncomfortable in a vehicle such as this. If that's what she was digging at then Cassandra would shut it down, "Is it because you have to be around people you don't very much like to be around?" Selina brought up before Cassandra could've responded.

Her perplexed expression changed, enough so where it was one of realization. Cassandra almost forgot that these are one of the few things she doesn't like doing. She decided to take part in this socializing routine just to be able to potentially catch this killer today. With it dawning on her, it could also be another reason why she was cracking her hands, impatiently wanting out of the car, or not even looking forward to the fundraiser in general. If anything, Cassandra silently berated herself of not noticing that and had to have someone notice it for her. With it being out in the open, Cassandra wasn't gonna brush it aside, "...How does Batman… Do it?"

Green light took over, and Selina kept driving to the Fashion district, "That fire cracker, is not something anyone can just learn. You have to hide your true self from the world so that way you can keep up an image. You'll have to fake it to make it look so real that no one can see the mask you wear. And you don't exactly have that talent," her shamrock-like eyes turn to Cassandra, "You can't turn yourself off when in costume then out of costume."

"Yet… Batman did. Peter is the same...In a sense."

"You're telling me you want to be like them? More than being yourself?" Selina wondered with an eyebrow arch, bringing back her eyes on the road as she was curious of Cassandra's mindset that she was now getting a glimpse at. It's been a while since she can have these types of talks with Cassandra, and she couldn't pass up the opportunity, "You're a firecracker for a reason; light a fuse and you can explode to whatever emotions that's on the surface. You don't fake it, you embrace it better than most who dallies in costume crime fighting for a living."

Cassandra felt her hand cup her chin, pondering the question today that had a similar outcome of the last question from a few weeks ago, 'They understand though... To deviate the mask... From their real selves. But… I don't have one, an identity other than being the Bat. And at the same time, they were able...To do so much in and out of costume, but what can I do besides fight?' Cassandra asked herself, 'Who am I beyond the Bat…? Beyond the daughter of Shiva…? Beyond the daughter of David Cain…?' she then looked at her hands, gripping it, 'Who am I beyond being a weapon…? A weapon that somehow…Is more emotional than stable?'

"Andddd we're here," Cassandra looked up, seeing that just across the street were people in dazzling costume outfits inspired by many other heroes from outside Gotham, and also can see many more inside the building that held the fundraiser, "Enough ruminating in your thoughts! Let's show them how we roll!"

Cassandra let out a soft groan as she found herself out of Selina's car when walking up to the building. The beauty about their costume is that not much of anyone can recognize who it is. It makes it more fun with the mystery being held by the mask everyone wears.

Yet Cassandra and only a few others here can see through those costumes. That in the end, no matter how rich they are, how high they are, everyone wears a mask to hide who they really are, and Cassandra feels like she's the only one who isn't wearing a mask of her own. With the bit of spotlight being on her and Selina, she found herself cowering just a bit in the attention. Because she has nothing to hide, but she can see everyone has something to hide. Their posture, their eyes, their mannerism, the way they drink champagne, the way they talk, it all screams at her.

Everyone has something to hide.

Selina didn't shy away from the attention, greeting a few people while Cassandra simply waved when Selina tried to introduce her. Yet Cassandra often finds herself distracting herself from doing similar social capabilities as Selina; focusing on the mission, and watching people and their movement who can be a potential threat. She would also find time to move just away from Selina to observe more of the crowd. Sometimes it was from a top advantage from the stairs that also connects to the basement that houses the drinks and food. Sometimes it was back to the first floor, taking note of the things Bruce was selling; nothing bat related, but antiques from a bygone time he bought for various reasons. She even noticed Peter in his old costume that she can tell looked really bad in shape because of the amount of tears they caused. It helped her lighten up and ignore the fact that she stood awkwardly watching him from afar.

Beyond being quite awkward in large crowds, Cassandra didn't know these people or know how to socialize with these people. Matter of fact, Cassandra never exactly developed that type of skill set compared to the rest of her family. The problem was when concentrating on potential targets, everyone has something to hide. It also means there can be a number of people ready to jump at the chance to murder. She would soon return to Selina, already having a champagne in hand and taking a nice sip of it, "..You know now taking a look at you," Selina's voice brought her back to reality when finding her amongst the crowd, "That suit does not fit you, at all anymore."

Cassandra found herself shrugging, "Grew. Pounds and height," just talking to her made her feel a bit more comfortable when being surrounded by so many people here. Like it always seems to do, "Should see Peter," she gestured her head to the direction he was in.

That they do. Old spandex costume with a mask on that didn't seem to have any lens on when recording an interview that with his news partner Vicki Vale, "Dear lord," Selina mouth moved to her lip when giggling, "He looks like a goof in that old getup," hearing her comment only serve to make Cassandra join in on the giggle, "Oh my! It brings back those days when seeing that old costume. I swear, the first time I saw him trying to stop me just as he was dealing with Falcone, one of his older adversaries, think it was the chameleon, I called him out of being a kid and thinking Bruce inducted him."

"He told you...He won't join," Cassandra finished off her sentence by gesturing her fingers on the sides of her head, as if she had on her cowl.

It causes the both to holler in laughter, "Right! He won't ever join the lunatics' gang of mischief! Ohh..." Selina found herself eyeing Peter once more as the laughter died down, "He surely was angsty back then; young, raw, brash, but as always his heart was in the right place as ever. Somehow, I always assume one day he'll break under all that shit he went through," slowly, Selina felt herself frowning while Cassandra let her talk on, "Yet somehow, he didn't."

"He's strong."

Selina nodded, "Stronger than most give him credit, but I also like to think it has to do with you too," Selina eyes drifted back to Cassandra, who's own basil eyes kept locked on Peter, "After all, he's more alone than he was before, and he was always a bit withdrawn from us. If it wasn't for you, I don't think he would've gotten closer to any of us."

Cassandra never knew how to feel about that, that she was the one to allow Peter to be more open to the entirety of the Bat family. She knew there was some truth to it, but she also knows that Peter had a very complicated relationship with everyone. Some weren't as bad, some even were more mended as years went by, but some were still complicated as ever. But Cassandra wouldn't lie that those words Selina told her warmed her heart, made her cheeks redden little. She likes to know that she has a positive influence on Peter even when she has a lot more moments of feeling inadequate when it comes to being a good moral support to Peter.

She can fight side by side with him.

She can train with him.

She can study with him.

But she was never good at the more simple gestures, the more nuisance things that come into a relationship, the feminine side of her to be that emotional support for him. If anything, she kisses, hug, cuddles and such, but words to help lift him up? Words to convince him to do and be better? Words of wisdom to give to help him navigate his life is where it's at? She isn't good at it.

She wants to be, but she doesn't know how to.

She remembers the simpler time when it wasn't always like that, especially when she first met him, and how in a sense, she became entranced at him. At all he is and all he does.

---

6 years ago

She watched him from afar, fighting criminals, knowing when to hit, and knowing when to dodge.

It was utter beauty in Cassandra's eyes, something she never saw anyone move like how he did.

That red, that blue, those huge white eyes, the costume that made him stand out from the night, but it also painted him a target by the villains that just kept coming.

She couldn't stand and watch, and help in his fight.

He wasn't shocked by her appearance, or even startled by the fact she blended more into the dark when helping him, no, they work in sync quite easily. They were managing and protecting people by villains who were trying to take over territories in the ruin of what Gotham is at this moment. In the fight against these villains, Gotham was rugged, buildings destroyed, streets undrivable with a bunch of cars wreck together, streets being crooked due to cracks, stores being lit on fire, places being abandoned, or places being used by civilians as the watch on heroes' fighting against villains. it was chaos and madness due to Gotham suffering a huge earthquake like never before, and in doing so?

It became known as No Man's Land, sealing itself away from other cities, no one can get in nor out, and it left the underworld of Gotham to try to take a hold of the city.

But people like the Bat and the Spider didn't allow it.

"You're a new one!" Peter moved with speed and grace, dishing out attacks as he bounced from one enemy to another, but not with the same grace he had in his later years, "Related to Batman and recruited by him?"

"Yes."

"Figures! He's always recruiting more people to the fold! One's never enough with him! I'm assuming you go by Batgirl?!"

"Yes."

"Not too talkative? Then don't mind me! Two face and Penguin's crew sure hate it right now!"

Cassandra was informed of what Peter was like; talkative but strong, impulsive, but responsible, naïve, but hope. Here she saw all that, the good qualities and the bad qualities, but so much more. The way he fought, moved, talked, it all was extravagant to Cassandra. She never saw a person do all this in her life. Sure, it was superhuman, but she couldn't help but be at awe to see Peter in action. To see the Spider-Man of Gotham, be what he is. Because of this, it was the first time for a moment when fighting, Cassandra felt something odd, pinging her on her chest. She wouldn't know what it was at first, but years later, it was her heart skipping a beat.

The various villains were no much for the Bat and the Spider. Most were taken down without a hitch that both heroes rounded them up, "Bad guys done! Your all safe!" Peter tore apart the barricade and allow innocent people start moving. Peter looked to Cassandra, "I'm gonna make sure they get to safety, I trust that you can make sure the police handles them?" Cassandra nodded, Peter breathed a sigh of relief, "Don't know who you are but my instinct says you're good at the moment, don't break my trust ok?"

Cassandra again nodded, but she also tilted her at noticing his stance, how while he was breathing fine, he seemed shaken up, not relaxed. Yes, he did fought, but it was seeing this hero be in this sort of state, that in hindsight, he was afraid, "Fear?"

Peter found himself curious at the one word that sounded like a question, "Huh?"

Cassandra walked to him, pointing to his chest, pointing to the spider symbol that was scratched from his fight, "Fear?"

"Your… asking me if I'm scared?" She again tilted her head, like she didn't understand at first, and he wasn't sure if he was looking at him. Her old costume cowl had eyes that were pitch black, enough so it could seem like she was staring at his soul, or staring into the distance. She then nodded, allowing Peter to tense up a little but force him to try to relax, "Guess you can see like Bruce. I mean it's obvious, look around," she didn't need too, but he knows what he's trying to say, "My city is shambles, not by villain's but by nature, and these criminals want to stake their claim on this city while the outside world have us fend by ourselves. So of course, I'm afraid, but I won't back down or turn my back on those that need me. Now if you'll excuse me."

Peter gently took her finger off his chest, and went to escort the civilians to somewhere safely. Her both hands touch one another, feeling his touch, seeing his passion, and being at awe of his energy.

Even back then she knew what she saw, felt what she felt, and it all the more made her attentive to who this person was, and how could she be around him while learning more of who he is.

In a sense, Cassandra felt the same aura, different, but the same aura as the Batman.

---

Present

Cassandra holds her first meeting with Peter close to her heart, close to her soul. It meant the world to her just because it was that single moment where she always had eyes for him, and never left her eyes off him even if their situations were different at the time.

"Why is Peter wearing that costume?" shiver ran down Cassandra's body, knocking her out of the reminiscent moment she had of the past, knocking off the smile she held dearly on her face. That voice; the confidence, the lightness was mixed with deepness of sound, and how it wasn't his own, but a voice he often uses around people to disguise who he really is. She knew that voice too well and it was the voice she had been avoiding for sometime, a year in fact, a voice that if were to sound deeper, colder, but once held hope to it as he struck down fear on the corrupted.

She knew that voice, Cassandra knew the voice of her father, the once who was Batman, but no longer.

She turn to see a taller man beside her and Selina; he had perfect posture, strong in stature and strong in embodiment, chin big with a dimple in the middle, jet black hair that he kept swept back thanks to gel, oceanic eyes that more resemble steel then soft, a small smile at the present of seeing Peter in his old costume, yet he himself only wore a black and white suit with a little bow tied in the uppermost of his suit.

A frown came upon Cassandra. Just from the smallest glance of his stature he too was uncomfortable of being here, and from looking longer, he doesn't want to be here at all, '...Wanna be somewhere else...One where you don't play...Dress up..' It made her frown to know this thing was still a thing that he had yet to overcome due to retirement, 'Still want to be the Bat..'

"Fuck Bruce!" Selina slapped his arm from the shock of his sudden appearance between her and Cassandra, "Do you still have to do that?"

"Do what?" He sipped a glass of what didn't smell like alcohol but ginger instead.

She glared at him, "You freaking know what. Someday you'll give me a heart attack," she spoke before grabbing her own drink again to match her husband. But unlike her, it was a campaign seeing as she wanted to live a little compared to him.

"You'll still be perfect and healthy," he gave her a kiss on her cheeks, "No matter what age you'll be."

Cassandra heard Selina groan, she wasn't annoyed as she made it seem. In fact, she was all the more happy to be around her husband, and loved the compliments coming her way, "Drop the playboy act, you're not fooling me with that sweet talk. And it's not like Peter ever wears anything to dress to impress, unless it's for firecracker that is."

His blue eyes shifted to Cassandra, still holding his small smile countering her frown as they're eyes interlock with one another for the first time in a full year. The two Bat's now together once more, but sadly, even Selina could see that the two Bat's were more uncomfortable then they were before. The two are an expert at hiding their body language with only certain people like Selina can see through it rather, not easily, but the smallest of gestures from facial expression or stature can give it off. It takes years to hide it, just as it takes years to see it, and for Cassandra and Bruce, they saw through one another more than what Selina wasn't seeing.

Cassandra didn't want to meet Bruce, yet she took notice that he was in a way, thrilled to see her again, to be in her presence once more. But also, she noticed the small smile, the sadness behind his eyes, was indication of how apologetic he is, from what he did to their bond.

Bruce can see Cassandra doesn't want to meet him, doesn't want to look in his eyes, prefers every chance she gets to look at Peter, to cling to him as the support she needed when being in his own presence. And it further saddens Bruce that he knew where her mind was going, "Cassandra, it's been sometime. How are you?" He asked, trying to ease her

But it didn't ease the memories coming flooding back to Cassandra of what happened a year ago that caused this intangible uncomfortableness between the two.

---

A year ago

The sun bled bright in the sky looking over Gotham. Along with the brightness, was the winter snow storm dwarfing Gotham in a blizzard. But even when the morning was bright, even when the coldness brittle Gotham, the city was also burning, inside and out. Multiple buildings were on fire and being suspended by the snow, civilians stayed at home and away from the streets because of the blizzard and the destruction going on in the city. Along with that, two people were fighting amongst a scorch rooftop that once was burning.

Batman, Bruce, and Batgirl, Cassandra. They were going at it with one another. Neither holding back on the other; striking, countering, dodging, and also suffering from blows with one another, they couldn't afford to hold back one another. It was to the point that one of their lives was on the line, and if one wrong move was thrown, then quite possibly, one of them would die. Cassandra was used to this, having been through this situation before from many different opponents she had faced, but the true difference lies who she was facing, and who she wished she hoped to never face down like this.

Her father, the Batman, no longer being held by his code that he uphold, and willing to go so far as to kill her, "GOTHAM NEEDS TO BE PURGE! THE AL GHUL'S WERE RIGHT! THERE'S NO SAVING THIS CITY!" Catching her fist just as she did, Batman headbutted her with the half cowl barley hanging on just as Batgirl's own was in the same condition. Both Batman and Batgirl's own costume entirely was in poor condition, with some areas of the chest, legs, and arms being out in the open with scapes, bruises, and cuts. But the likes of their hands, chest, shins, neck, and head still had the protection they needed, "IF I HAD KILLED JOKER YEARS AGO HE WOULDN'T HAVE HURT YOU OR ANYONE I CARE!" Batgirl didn't back down, going for a quick succession of strikes, landing some, but not landing enough to do damage as he took advantage of each time she missed. The Batman knew of her moves, knew of her capabilities, and also knew that she was indeed using everything to take him down, "IF YOUR GONNA KILL! THEN KILL!" Batman took advantage of her strike, gave back three ounce over, and then he picked her up and body slammed her, with his back on the snowy rooftop, he interlock his arms in a chokehold, getting close enough to whisper in her ears, "You can't save me, but you can join me. You know this Cassandra, and I won't stop till Gotham is safe.'

Cassandra felt her world going away, felt the world going dark, but she couldn't back down, she wouldn't submit to him, she wouldn't become him. And luckily for her, she noticed the piece of sharp metal from the gauntlet was nearby her, and she stabbed Bruce's torso. He screamed, and stabbed him two more times till the grip was loosened, "I WON'T!" She elbowed him by his cheek, rolled off him since he didn't wrap his legs around her, and she spun herself on the ground to let her heel hit his chin. Both Cassandra, and Bruce, stayed on the ground for a moment, not getting up and letting their body recuperate just for a moment. Similar to Bruce, where her rib was bleeding as well, causing her to groan as it dripped and as she held onto it.

But she saw him, suffering like her, one eye swollen while the other eye was protected by the cowl, mouth busted and bleeding, and nose bashed in place. And for her, her cheeks swollen, nose also broken, but at least both eyes were still functional, yet she had a cut somewhere on the top of her forehead that leaked a little, blocking her vision, "...HE WOULDN'T HAVE KILLED SO MANY PEOPLE!" Bruce slammed his fist to the ground, his fist implanted in the snow as his anger and frustration was shouted, "IF I DID WHAT WAS NECESSARY THEN PEOPLE WOULD LIVE! JASON WOULDN'T HAVE BEEN TAKEN IN BY TALIA UPON HIS REVIVAL! LUCIUS AND HIS FAMILY WOULD BE ALIVE! I COULD'VE SAVE THEM CASSANDRA!" He looked to her, and she noted that between all that was happening, was a tear coming down from his swollen and hidden eyes, "...If I was strong enough..." Bruce took his time to stand up, just as Cassandra did, "...I could've saved them all..If I was able to pull the trigger.."

Cassandra spit out blood from her lip, took a deep breath in as their moment of recovery was over, "...You can't give up!"

"I'm too far gone."

"No! I know what it's...LIKE!"

Bruce shook his head, "You'll have to kill me. If Dick couldn't do it, if Jason refused to follow me, if Tim ran away, and if Peter wouldn't dare fight me because of your behalf, then you'll have to do what's necessary for Gotham. You're the only one...Who knows what it's like to step over the line, and come back with sanity Cassandra. You're the only one strong enough to do it."

"ONLY STRONG! BECAUSE OF YOU!" She pointed to him, "AND EVERYONE! I WON'T! I WON'T GIVE UP ON YOU!" Now it was her turn for tears to stream down her cheeks, "I won't father..."

Bruce felt his chest hurt, felt everything hurt, not because of the battle, but what he is doing, what he has to do. He knew it was gonna come down to this, but he hoped he would have faced anyone but her. But then they all would be hard in their own way, yet somehow, Cassandra was the hardest, she was the hardest to confront because she is him. In every aspect that comes with the mind and body in terms of combat versatility, she is him, she may not be smart as him, yet she went through the same type of hell, trauma, that he went through.

She became a Bat just like how he decided for himself all those years ago, "Come on soldier. Finish the war."

"...Yes sir.." Being beckoned by her father, she ran forward to him, and they're battle would rage on.

---

Present day

She breathes in and out, washing away that day from her head before she answers the Batman, "Fine. You?" She calmly said.

"Terrific," the corner of her basil eyes looked to Bruce, just when his eyes skidded away from hers, "Couldn't be any better."

She felt her eyes squinted, 'A lie,' she let out a small scoff at seeing the obvious happen in front of her. But what can she truly do? She tried in the past to help him, but it only served to hurt her, to remind her of what came after what Joker did to her and her family. For him to go against his code, to cross the line, to take people's lives away because he felt they deserve it? That it was the only way for Gotham to be safe?

It has sickened her to this day. It sickened her that he threw away everything just so he could, in his own twisted head, protect his family and city. Regardless if he was in the right to kill the Joker, it gave him no right to go further down the path of judge, jury, and executioner. He taught her that it wasn't their call for that, that justice was the way to preserve order, and that they had to be above the people they fight. That's why it still hurts her, that's why it still sicken her, and that's why she wanted to keep her distance from Bruce.

Because how do you fix a broken man that lost his code? His honor? And further shattered his family to pieces?

It didn't help, in the small seconds that passed by as they stood next to one another, Bruce wanted to say something. But he only found himself watching everyone that came to support him and his fundraiser. He couldn't help it, just as the younger Bat was doing the same thing. Even when they haven't talked for a year, they work as if nothing ever happened to separate them.

Selina eye roll, seeing as neither the younger or older Bat was making any progress to at least communicate with one another. She can't fault either one of them even if she's the only one to let bygones be bygones. She knows first hand of making some huge mistakes, one that costs people lives and how that affects other people as well. So she learns that the past doesn't make you who you are, it's who you are that defines you. For her, it's why Selina is doing everything in her power to help Bruce.

Especially since she's the only one to have his back after all he had done in tainting the Bat symbol, "Your tush looks like it got bigger there Peter!~" She said rather loudly, poking fun at his butt still had a hole that wasn't properly sewed up.

Calling out his name made him jump. If it wasn't for his skills he had from years of holding a camera, he would've messed up his recording session of Vicki's interview. He made sure to send a quick glare at Selina way. In hindsight, it made the group smirk in their own way instead of it being awkward and tense; Selina with a devious demeanor, Bruce smile lifted up a bit more in amusement, and Cassandra shaking her head as she couldn't help but find situation comical at best that Selina still finds time to tease Peter in public. Vickie of all people also found it funny, yet kept her interview professional.

"Come on, leave the poor kid alone," Bruce place his arms Selina, allowing her to snuggle herself just little closer to her husband, "Think he's been through enough of your constant torture over the years hasn't he?"

"Oh please! The kid got worse from so many other women! My protégé for one, that Spiderwoman he was with, and oh! Koriand'r sister! Hell, maybe I'm missing a few since he got around like Dick ak!" Mentioning Peter's exes only served to make Cassandra scowl at Selina, and also caused her to lightly kick her legs at bringing them up, "Ow! Ow! You're not still green with jealousy are you Cassandra?" She didn't answer, with her scowl being the only answer, causing Selina to suck her teeth while Bruce shared a small chuckle, "Someday you gotta let that go. He chose you over them anyhow."

Cassandra would arm cross while her scowl stayed on her face, "I know. Still don't like...Either of them," she made well aware before speaking of it.

Because of her little envious trait being on display, she almost didn't notice Peter taking a picture of all three of them. The only thing she could do was be shocked at how fast Peter was in front of her as he took a snapshot, "That is definitely gonna be a keeper," he said with a huge grin.

Cassandra scowls transformed into an embarrassing pout, "Delete it!"

"But you look so cute here," she tried reaching for it, but instead Peter had her by his waist, "Mr. Wayne! Misses Wayne! Always pleasure seeing you together," he greeted politely, "But also it's not a pleasure you still find time to comment on my tush, Misses Wayne."

"Hey I'm just pointing out what the firecracker here doesn't say."

"Selina!" Cassandra should not be enduring this from two people at once, but she is. What she is fully aware of is how they're keeping her calm, less uncomfortable around Bruce. In their own irritating way, they were looking out for her, like always.

"How's the search going?" Bruce's demeanor didn't alter, but his tone voice became a bit deeper, serious, a tone all three recognize as Bruce's real voice.

Selina didn't very much like her husband's instinct kicking in and wanting to know more about the killer. Cassandra felt herself going back to being uncomfortable, and her boyfriend's loose and playful expression ended up being replaced by a poker face. It was like a dial that was switched thanks to Bruce, "Oh you know, the usual," he shrug.

"The usual?" He asked with his eyebrow arching, not the kind of answer he wanted.

"Well to be fair Mr. Wayne, I don't even know what you mean so I presume the usual. We only ever see each other at these types of events every so often since you had an interest in me when I was and had graduated from Gotham High."

Through the naked eyes, it was a civil conversation between the two. But to Selina and Cassandra, it was conversation where one was trying to keep the other in the dark, being elusive like the Spider he is, and the Bat trying to dig through the webbing he's putting between them, "Well that's because Mr. Parker your intelligence can mean a lot for Gotham. Even now, I still think you would be a great fit in Wayne enterprise, and with your multiple experience in various science and engineering, you don't need to worry about a college de-"

"Thanks," Peter put his hands up, "But no thanks. I've had my share of working for businessmen in the past, and they weren't a good fit for me. I'm more better at being my own man. Enough about me, how are you two?"

"Swell."

"More then swell honey," Selina lightly tapped his chest, cutting him off to whatever else he wanted to say, "It's been sometime Bruce can ever do events like this that I really had to persuade him," she grab his chin, kissing his cheek, "With a good time," her own husband grumble under his breath, meaning how truthful it all was.

If anything, Peter found it funny to see him be tied down by a woman like Selina. He too understands what it is like for various women to have their ways, but also a feline of all people, "Oh poor thing, it's good thing he has someone like you."

"Right?! And how about you and Cassandra?"

"Fantastic/Good!" They both said simultaneously. It was a complete flip side compared to Selina and Bruce, but one thing that was similar in between the words they said, it wasn't entirely true. Selina got a brief look at her talk with Cassandra weeks ago, and Bruce can see, and hear, the underlying tone of their words.

It's not to say there wasn't any truth, but he can tell, there are some problems lurking amongst them, something they haven't exactly found the time to sort out. Once more, Bruce wanted to steer the direction his way, but his wife was already carrying on what Peter was doing from the start, "Ok! Ok! You got to meet them, and now mister, you have some people to meet," Selina would drag Bruce away.

Peter watches as the misses Wayne drag mister Wayne to a couple of people he had to talk to, that he technically didn't want to talk. Cassandra soon saw the noticeable thin line on Peter's lip. She can tell something was bothering him from the conversation, "As predicated, he can't stay away from wanting to know about our business," Peter mention when looking back at Cassandra, "Good thing Selina and I made sure to keep him out of the loop, but also keep you whelmed."

She squeezed the hand that was wrapped around her waist, "Thanks. Noticed you...Were uncomfort...Able."

"Me?" Peter pushed his hands through his brunette hair, "Yeah, it's been a year since I directly talked to him like this just like you. Whatever conversation was mostly phone calls. But now," Peter found himself looking back more towards Selina, "I feel bad that I at least couldn't help out Selina in some way. Bruce and I very much always had our differences, but deep down I felt like I let him down after his rehab and all. I should've been there, should've at least made sure Selina didn't have to do this alone."

Again, Cassandra squeezed his hand, gaining his attention, "Not responsible...For people action."

"I am, if I can help, I should help."

"Black suit."

He sighed, remembering he too had his own problems around that time Bruce had changed dramatically, "Yeah...I had to deal with that alien suit at the time too."

She moved out his waist, cupping his hands since the camera was dangling around his neck, "Not your fault. And Remember, mission."

Reminding him what he had to make sure of at this moment made him focus, less somber, and had his back straight instead of slouching, "Right. Spider senses on high alert, and just so you know," he then moves closer to her ears, holding and for a brief second dancing just a bit to the sound of piano playing, "Your costume is on the roof from across the street."

And she smiled, knowing full well that he was giving her the option to let him do the heavy lifting here in the fundraiser. A factor she loved when it was the two of them at work.

Chapter 4: It'll get better, it has to

Cassandra was on the roof that had a good view of the fundraiser. This specific roof had one of Peter's many bags when it came to patrol. For this one particular, held her primary suit in it. Off was the old and in came with the one she grew accustomed to wear. First was the chest, snapping on her, sprawling to her body, and having the black and yellow bat symbol come together to connect them. Next was the arm and shoulder; the components grip on her shoulder sprawling with metallic armor, covering her upper and lower body, to her arms and hand with the gauntlets necessary to do damage without breaking her knuckles. It also stopped right at her waist thanks to the yellow utility belt encircling her waist. She also felt the bat suit from the shoulder part let her cape out from its material. Then came the legs that she put her feet into the slim armor leggings, both locking in and raising up to attach to the utility belt. Finally, was the helmet that slid easily on her head. She would give Selina this, she braided her hair properly better than she ever could. The helmet sank itself in, using the same mechanism like the other section of the suit to form into her proper bat cowl, bat ears piercing right out of the helmet, and then it closed off the mouth area, truly embodying the knight she is.

Emphasize the fear with her dark eyes, pointy ears, the sign of no human can be in this form. And that the Bat on her chest represents what she needs to do.

Not a moment to waste, she tapped the side of her ear, "Ready," she spoke out loud as the communication in her cowl turned on.

"Read you loud and clear. I made sure to remotely hack into the camera's here," with Peter confirming the information, Cassandra took out a small device from her yellow utility belt. Once rotating the device in both different directions, a small video hud was showcased that Cassandra could easily move left and right to scroll through the many camera's Bruce had put up, "Regardless of what, somethings with Bruce doesn't change. We have full access to the camera's so you should be able to see everything."

As soon as he said this, Peter would wave to one of the camera's, allowing a small giggle to occur from Cassandra end, "Cute."

"I know I am."

Cassandra scroll through each camera's, either zooming in or having it all together to not miss anything. The camera's allowed her to have eyes from higher levels where certain rich people snuck in for small talks or casual sexual interaction, lower levels that had people go in and out, serving drinks and food, and of course the main level that housed everyone. The general area obviously held the majority of the people who range from the rich, political, powerful people, to those who may be smaller, mingle their way into the group, and even people like Peter, who either is in the place to get a scoop of the lifetime, or simply wants to weed out the corrupted to the surface.

Cassandra couldn't help but note the level of details that Bruce put in to make sure this was possible. It caused her to scoff and shake her head, "Nothing change. Still the same."

"You're talking about Bruce?" Peter asks as he can hear her disapproving tone even with the mask concealing her usual lighter, but quiet tone that can be ecstatic depending on the given day or time. He heard what seemed like a grunt, something Peter is and has been familiar with to the person who's the main topic, "Well, that's been his thing for years. How do you drop something instinctual for something else? I wanna say give it time but with Bruce...He's always been a more complicated person. Retirement often never seemed like he wanted to do, no matter if he grew to have more allies...Or especially when I became who I am. If therapy can't help then I don't know what will."

It bothers her though, eyeing the main area, she still kept her eyes on Bruce, watching him in his every movement both with Selina and without her. It still bothers her to know he's still putting up an act of what everyone is so used to seeing, "...Still hard to be around him."

"I know, I can see it on your face and just feel the fact you did not want to be around him, or around this place. At least you try you know?"

"Hm."

"At some point you have to get comfortable with this sort of crowd. I know I got your back, but two heads are better than one," Peter said.

"I know. Barbs said same. Just...Hard."

"It'll get better, all this...Has too eventually get better," he said with hopefulness on the comms.

With the conversation dying down, Cassandra put more focus on keeping tabs on the fundraiser. She can't allow herself for a moment to be distracted by her boyfriend, even if the conversation help her mood when thinking about Bruce, or trying to mingle with those she detest. Deep down, she can't admit to her boyfriend that it isn't something she wanna learn, after all, she's the Bat, she's good at that area.

Wearing another mask, even if she's trying to learn it in a way? It truly doesn't seem like its for her. Something Selina pointed out earlier.

Soon enough, Cassandra caught something interesting happening with Bruce; he was talking to a bald headed man who wore white suit with purple inside of his clothing and had the body of a sumo wrestler. Because of his size and height, he dwarf Bruce and look as if he can simply squeeze him and snap him like a twig if he wanted too, "Fisk is here."

"I see him. Let's make sure we can get him on the record."

"Mhm," Cassandra zoomed in on Bruce and Wilson Fisk talking, pressing a button to properly hear them talking while reducing the background noise.

"Why must you reject the offer Mr Wayne?" Fisk asked while smoking a cigar.

One where he blew right in front of Bruce face, who didn't flinch at all, "Not interested in what you're offering."

"Be reasonable here. Ms Al Ghul could also benefit from the both of us if we all work together. In Fact, Gotham would prosper with the three of us wanting to better this city. After all, she's more independent without her father around."

The Bat and the Spider heard Bruce laugh, almost out of mockery then anything else. Cassandra saw Fisk becoming flabbergasted by the laughter, and like flip of a switch, Bruce cut his laughter short, staring with an expressionless gaze. It was a gaze Cassandra was aware of that read between the line of a look that can kill on the fly, "Talia is neither interested or would even care what you have to offer her that she doesn't have. Besides.." Cassandra saw Bruce move closer to Fisk ear, wanted to make sure this get by the two besides the camera feed Cassandra had to zoom into hear properly, "Are you truly willing to sacrifice anything to a demon again? I heard last time you made a deal with her father, it didn't end well that involve Batman and Spider-Man."

"Where...?!"

"I got connection too Fisk."

"...That was years ago," with how deep the conversation was going, Fisk kept his cigar in his fingers as he was in no mood at the moment to finish it off, "And yes, just like before with Ra's, I'm willing to do so again. If it means saving my wife, then I'll sell my soul for her."

Bruce backed off, sighing at Fisk's stubbornness to not heed his warning, "You're playing a dangerous game here Mr. Fisk. I suggest you back off while you can, and in any case if you'll excuse me. I have a speech to present."

With Bruce moving to the stage to give out his speech to the wealthy people of Gotham, Cassandra saw Fisk finishing up his cigar and put it in the nearby ashtray. He then went to dial a number from his phone, something Cassandra was able to take a screenshot of just before he went on call, "He's calling someone," the screenshot she got had numbers that she couldn't quite run through her gadgets with it being various numbers and letter of all things, "Can't track number. Has letters."

"Letter's? Usually older telephone's had those for it to be easy to remember. But if there are inputs with numbers and letters means it's likely not even phone related. Adjust the frequency so we can hear who's behind the call," Peter both pointed out and advised.

She did so. She noticed from the footage that Fisk looked stressed, scowling hard at the predicament he's in. He is and was becoming desperate as her partner mentioned, "He's not budging, and won't give us a meeting with Talia."

"As expected," the voice that was heard piqued Cassandra and Peter's interest. It was a distorted kind of voice that pitched their voice lower than normal, and because whoever was using tools to modulate their voice, it serve to make their tone come across as menacing yet had playfulness to it. It sicken Cassandra to hear a person like that while Peter stayed remotely silent when hearing a person like this, one that he's heard so many times as Spider-Man, "Wayne wants to stay far away from the woman who has a number of assassins for her beck and call."

"How could he stay away from her when his company is linked to her to begin with?"

"It's a front to make everyone happy. In reality, Wayne only makes sure they work on healthier options while he stays away from the unhealthy option. Still, we have other ways to get what we want from Talia one way or another. The pit can't be with her forever."

"We'll be crossing her and the league."

"The great Kingpin backing down? I thought you were willing to do anything for your dying wife… After all, she doesn't have much time does she?"

A sniveling crackle can be heard over the phone, one that infuriated Fisk, "YOU….!" Fisk wanted to scream, scream loud and threaten the person on the phone. But he held back his anger, controlled his outburst due to being in public, and kept himself just a bit calm before he could talk again, "You hold no true power here. Yes, I will do what I must for her, but mark my words, you use those words again then I'll make sure you don't get to see the man you're inspired by alive."

"...Deal."

The pair heard the phone disconnected. During the conversation Cassandra was trying to get a bead of the location from the caller, seeing that whoever they were, were the one's puppeteering everything involving Fisk move, "Pit..? So he's now trying to get to the Al Ghul's Lazarus pit, along with whoever else is joining in the frame?" Peter noted so far as to what they have on the situation, "I should be able to crack that voice synthesizer later to see who it was on the other line."

"Damn."

"What happened?"

Cassandra sighed in frustration as on screen, she was unsuccessful in retrieving the location of the unknown caller, "Couldn't get location. Call bounces. But was using… a burner," she mentioned.

"As expected unfortunately. Probably the calculator's work maybe?"

"Maybe," no longer focusing on kingpin, but again the entirety of the fundraiser as a whole with multiple cameras on screen for her, it was becoming one of those slow nights in Gotham, "Gotham is quiet," Cassandra acknowledged the slow night that she and Peter was having. No random crime or random villains were attacking the night of all nights that she could be doing anything else.

How odd, "Never a good sign. Keep your pointy ears high and I'll keep my spider sense on its tippy toe here."

Cassandra hummed in affirmation. Even with how slow it was, the underworld was still twisting and turning, up to no good like always. Yet there is a part of Cassandra that is hoping something would happen, something that puts her to the test, to challenge her on all fronts.

But like always, she shake it off, ignore that feeling, and focus on the mission as always.

---

"And thank you all for coming and contributing today with your spectacular Halloween costumes!" Bruce spoke, taking the to be in the center of thw room where everyone listened to his speech, "I would've done the same, but I'm not one to wear a get up as easily as my wife can," the crowd took in his humor, and Selina simply raised her glass from the side, "On this day, I would like to extend my gratitude into those who took part into taking these items that I no longer have any use for, and by doing so, using the money to help make Gotham better. Much of it is going for reconstruction of buildings in both in North and South Gotham so we can give better homes and businesses to you, the people of Gotham. A surprise to be had is Mr. Fisk, a person who is more of a neighbor to Gotham and contributed a lot towards the fundraiser. Though I think he's mostly doing it because he wants to include more unique items in his home," again, the richest of Gotham shared a laugh, "Please, round of applause for Fisk, and to good health and all."

An applause went for Fisk, who seemingly gave a smile when taking a sip of wine instead of champagne.

Nearby, Peter would just about film a lot going on. While he rather spend his time focus on keeping a better eye out on the area around him, he did had a job to uphold. He may not like it as much, but it keeps him active, keeps who he is as Peter Parker in line then a ghost that most would just about forget. Then again, deep down Peter wouldn't mind disappearing and fully embracing the one thing that he can put his focus on.

After all, Peter doesn't have the same trouble's as he had when he was younger; he isn't worrying about rent, studies, people he has to catch up with, hangouts he has to make time for, a plethora of stuff that always involve him having trouble balance his normal life with his hero life. Beyond the job, these days Peter doesn't have too worry much and can simply be Spider-Man for however long he wants to or needs too. With these sort of thoughts coming through his head, Peter couldn't help but press a bit on his issue as he soon stopped recording his filming, 'It would be so easy to just to...Disappear as Peter, and just be Spider-Man full time. I've done it before, but I always had people to pull me back to the civilization world,' while in thought, Peter did make sure to be aware of his surroundings; watching and observing everyone in vicinity with him, 'Yet everyone I knew is gone; May, Gwen, her father, Harry, sure MJ is back, but for how long? Then there's the Bat family, each would try to pull me back, but it isn't as strong as before. Cassandra is the only consistent person who keeps me in line as Peter Parker. Beyond being around her all the time, she knows the importance of why I keep balance in who I am. Barbara would do the same if she monitor's me as closely as she used too, but she hasn't, not for a while. Dick is busy with Koriand'r in New Tameran so likely he's not up to date with everything, likely that is. Jason doesn't care much about what I do, since he is too busy with whatever he is doing, either drinking or killing his next target. Stephanie and Tim both are busy keeping themselves healthy in San Diego, and therefore, are staying far away from Gotham with only checking in every once in a while,' Peter's eyes turn to both Bruce and Selina talking to others, the former drinking his ginger and notice Peter's attentiveness. He gave a small gesture of raising his glass to him before going back to listening to what other people were saying to him and his wife, 'He of all people would want me to quit in the past. I think he still would want that for me while Selina...I actually never know how she felt about me when it came to which she preferred. She always...Seems like she wanted me to decide for myself, and not let others sway my judgment. Even Alfred is a bit like her, but he often wants me to do more with my head, not just my abilities...In hindsight...'

Peter look down to the camera that was tied in a bang, hanging by his neck, 'I haven't felt this lost on where to go in a long time...Not since when Gwen-'

Before his thought would drift upon a special person that was no longer in his life, he felt someone tugging his shoulder, it being none other then Vicki Vale, "Hey think we can nab an interview with Fisk?" She asked curiously, gesturing to his presence near them

Peter chuckled lightly, "You forgot how much he hates Ben Urch? And therefore look down on the Gazette? Or the fact he once tried to buy it out of Jameson's hands?"

"Damn… Almost forgot. That was 7…Maybe even 9 years ago when he was the talk of the town," she added a little stomp in her feet, "Mannn! I so wanna try to get my hands on anything involving Fisk."

In the middle of his conversation with Vicki, Peter made sure to nab some pictures of Fisk and whoever he talks to, "Not like we have anything to go on involving questions about his side job. A dide job he supposedly is no longer doing."

"But you and your kick ass friend want to know more about why Fisk is back in Gotham? Or more so, what's his goal with Mr. Wayne?"

"Trust me Vicki, we got that cover. You don't have to put yourself in danger for us."

She frowns with the way Peter voices his comment to herself, almost like she was made out of glass, "Hey I'm not a damsel in distress like Lois Lane! Always needing a cape saving hero to save her because of her poking and prodding in place that can get her killed."

"But you do sometimes get yourself in those positions," Peter said, "Which if anything, had me going to save you every now and again in the past."

"Fineeee! I do sometimes, but it's to help you and your friends."

"Hm, don't ever know what you mean Vicki. I don't exactly have many friends these days," Peter commented rather darkly than his usual casual, light hearted manner.

Vicki scoffed at how Peter tried to change the topic and be elusive into what she wanted to gage a topic to him, "Look, you know I'm here if you need me right? We're basically the reverse of Bonnie and Clyde, one that searches for the truth of things and exposes the lies of the corrupt, remember? Remember that's what we use to be?" Her comment now brought a reaction out of Peter stoic expression, one where he his lip began tightening, and his hazel eyes looked at her as she continued on, "We've been like that for 12 years since you first put on your pajamas," Peter glares at her, and she couldn't help but smile lightly at the very least getting a a more bigger reaction from Peter, "All I'm asking is that you hail me out once and awhile for help," the frown was gone, and now a more sorrowful like expression replaced her irritation, "You don't need to keep putting me off for another year Peter. I gave you the space you deserve after your aunt's passing, then what happened to all the Bat family because of Joker, or when you went all rageaholic with that black suit you wore. No man is an island Peter, and as your friend, it's my job to be there for you as you've done for me, even when I didn't want it in the past."

Peter sighed, letting go of his glare when hearing out one of his oldest friends that helped shape him to who he is today, "..I know, you're right. I just," his free hand rubbed against the top of his head, trying to find the words to describe more of why he doesn't want Vicki to keep looking for trouble like that, "I just don't want to see you getting hurt."

"I've been through worse."

"You know what I mean Vicki," his eyes glanced back to Bruce and Selina, "No one has been the same since what Joker did, not even me and I wasn't here to stop it. I still feel like it's my responsibility to make sure that never happens again."

She nodded, understanding him completely, but she couldn't help but having to poke at Peter's meaning in his last sentence, "..You know bad things will always happen right? Even when you're here and watching over everyone 24 hours of the day, you can't hope to stop those things from happening Peter."

"I know," he turned to Vicki once more, hazel eyes becoming more resolved as his tone of voice was, "But I still have to try to keep everyone safe. The justice league doesn't need me as much as this city does. And it needs me now more than ever, as things are changing for the better."

"Is it though?" She asked with her eyebrow cocked, "Sure Bruce is trying to make North and South Gotham better like here in Miagani. But some of those places he's trying to build, means replacing one's that at least used to house people. When those new buildings go up, you think those people who used to live there will be able to live there again with rent skyrocketing?"

"I.." Peter shy away from a moment, knowing the truth behind it is harsh, "But it has to mean something right? I know what it's like to be on the receiving end with losing a home from things beyond my control. I know Bruce has something in mind for people who need those kinds of help, like feast for example."

"But not everybody wants to be in a shelter home with others Peter. That's why I bring up the question; is Gotham getting better or is it getting harsher to live in beyond the crime and corruption. Take away those two things; crime and corruption, it still protrudes into a different form, causing newer problems to form. Soon enough, the city would end up becoming a sort of neo-Gotham with futuristic everything, but having similar and if not, more problems compared to the past."

"Yet like a virus, it can be cured," he placed his hand on the slightly shorter woman's shoulder, "As I tell my girlfriend each day I can, it has to get better. Our efforts for a better tomorrow can't be for nothing," the older red-haired woman couldn't help but simply smile at his optimism at the end of the day. Even when things seem to be just a bit dark, she can always count on Peter to focus on the positive side to anything.

Suddenly, Vicki caught the way his eye squinted. Peter heads motion in every direction, searching for something, but Vicki knows he wasn't searching. His own abilities were going off, and it seemed to be coming from multiple places, causing Vicki to be on alert just like he was, "Something is about to go down Bat's," Peter said to Cassandra over his comm's.

"I know. Moving!"

Before Vicki could question what's gonna happen, or do anything at all, the lights in the place went off, making it dark just like outside was. The only source of light came from the mobile phone's that were on but that didn't do much to help see. Then gun fires rang out in the dark, "DOWN!" Peter quickly maneuvers Vicki to the floor to avoid any bullets coming her way.

She can hear the cries of fear, pain, and bullets hitting their targets. Even when Peter covered her body was his, she can see bodies starting to drop, "Peter..!"

"I know," Peter looked up and around, he then saw people throwing molotovs that were lit up just enough to cause fire in the area. It was sent from the windows, hitting people, burning objects small and large, creating a ring of fire in the area. With fire basking in the main level on their own, it allowed Peter to see the arm gun man, lunatics that took pleasure in hurting and killing people,

Innocent or not, they're people at the end of the day, and Peter knew he had to do something, "Stay low till I clear them out," he said while dropping his camera in Vicki's hand.

"How?! You don't have on a mask!"

It was then Peter caught Bruce tossing not only smokes as he got some people, including his wife away from the scene. He couldn't help but grin at the opportunity Bruce gave him, "Not a problem anymore."

Peter moved from Vicki's body, going on all fours, and then sprinting like a mad man straight into the danger, straight into the smoke that cover the general area. Peter moved fast, fast enough to swipe away enough guns to take away the power they had over the unarmed civilians. Oddly enough, some tank the damage that Peter ended up striking. It made him do a double take for a quick second, before striking, and kicking them just a bit harder so they can go unconscious, 'Odd..Meta's attacking a ballroom?' Peter can't question it right at this time besides keep moving as fast as he can to take out the groups of arsonists before they can either hurt or kill more people, "Bats! There may be meta's here! Don't hold back!"

"I… Know!" The grunts over comms let Peter know she had to deal with them as well.

Before any more can bring down the place in a blaze, Peter would toss small objects such as bottles of wine and champagne to stop certain people from throwing more Molotov, "EVERYONE! GET OUT WHILE YOU CAN!" Peter shouted through the smoke as he had the majority of the supposed meta's on his sight.

They train their guns on him, trying to shoot him, but they couldn't shoot a man that was only just a blur in their eyes, even if they were supposedly meta's.

Peter couldn't be too careless in terms of showcasing his own abilities; there maybe a lot going on, but he needed to keep his identity a secret because the smoke will only last for so long, 'Head down, and keep moving faster,' Peter reminded himself as he uses the smokes, whatever shadow in the area, and sticking to all fours when combating the rest of the group of anarchist.

He knocks each of them out with one or the other by throwing them with his spider strength, or outright bashing them to a wall or ceiling for an added effect to know them unconscious. Soon enough, Peter did his job, saving enough people as he can when taking down these supposed meta's. But it also prompts him noticing that they were likely other people the maybe after, "Bats, find Wilson Fisk. I'm gonna search for Bruce and Selina while I make sure whoever is alive can escape"

"Know where he is. Moving!"

He can hear grunts, some gunshots over the comm's. He really does want to go help her but he trusts her to be safe and take care of them with ease. His priority was to protect those that needed protecting. Peter scope out the main level, finding more people hiding in corners and behind statues from the violence occurred. Some also played dead when the guns and fires came blasting, and thank god for that as it eases Peter's conscience to see that he can make sure most get out alive. He also took note briefly of Vicki doing her part and making sure everyone was alright, guiding them to safety that led to the outside.

A glance at each other and a nod, they both have their own respective jobs to do and it seems Vicki helps out the portion that needs done. Peter had to find Bruce and Selina, these weren't normal people they could fight their way out without some help.

Peter again was on the move; moving fast, passing by some bodies that were lying dead on the floor, but all the more, moving forward having no time to worry about the dead bodies he kept seeing. Leaping up the stairs with ease, he burst past through a door to see Selina and Bruce duking it out with more of the arsonist's. Bruce, noticing Peter, simply swept one of the guy's legs before kicking him right to Peter. It's then where Peter used his own shin to impact the person right by the ear, sending him hurling to a nearby floor.

Selina docked, and hopped over the person she was fighting, allowing Peter to jump and smash the other person right on the floor of the canvas. Once this brief skirmish was resolved, Peter look to make sure the two Wayne's were in good health, "You two ok?"

Selina groaned as she massaged her knuckles, "Whatever they are, they sure almost broke my hands a few times," Peter saw the two taking off a clear, unseen glove from their hands, "Good thing you made these just in case we fight people like these. Can't say for some of the other people here."

From his glancing, Peter would see more bodies on the floor. Some were half naked while others still had clothes on, meaning they were either caught by surprise or simply didn't have time to make a run for it, "Damn it.." Peter clenched and unclosed his fist, his anger coming but subsiding. Today was another reminder that he can't save everyone even if he took the precaution necessary to do something. Vicki told him earlier, and now he has to fully adhere to that comment today of all days. Cassandra and himself weren't prepared for this type of assault, they should've, thought they were, but even they were taken by surprise from the attack. Peter can feel himself scowling, going over how they let this happen, 'My spider sense should've detected threats before they hit, hell, we had camera's on the ready that we could've act upon anything before it happens. How...How-'

He felt someone tap his shoulder, and he saw it was Bruce, "No time to be in your head."

Peter would slowly nod, "Yeah… Let's check these guys real quick, maybe we can get something on them.

Bruce and Selina would follow Peter's lead. Each checking them before they stood up with a fixed expression, "Not much to go on," Bruce commented, "Normal everyday people."

"They do reek, like they live off the streets," Selina acknowledged.

"For some reason, they're bodies could tank alot more from the smaller percentage of my strength," Peter felt his hand cup his chin, thinking more of these people and how they moved, "Can't tell if they're enhanced on some drugs like venom, or they're augmented. Either way, I couldn't save some people due to me being slow."

Selina frowns just when Bruce's expression softens, "You did what you can," Bruce again consoled him, "Focus on the now. Where's Batwomen?"

"Bat? You've found Fisk?" Peter asked over his comm's.

"Yes..Need help. Basement."

Peter was on the move the second she said that, "Coast is clear for you two downstairs!" He brought out a different phone, a flip one where he messaged captain Dewolff of a shoot out here in the place where the fundraiser was held. Pocketing it as he leapt back down, to then find a nearby doorway that led to a kitchen, and then a basement that once held simple stuff for drinks and food. Now the hallway was litter out goons that were knocked out in a variety ways.

Shoved right to the wall, catering it.

An equipment that netted a few in a taser-like trap.

And especially the old fashion way, fist and legs meeting the body.

Zipping to the corner, he found Cassandra closing the wound with the heat in her gauntlet before checking his pulse. Yet the situation itself was not what bothered Peter. People who worked here, the bodies lying dead on the floor and including some that seemed like they work with Fisk due to their similar clothing. All their blood was written on the wall in front of Cassandra with the only light coming from a nearby fire from a nearby gas panel, and which the blood was written as is.

THERE WILL BE CARNAGE!

---

November 2nd

A person was thrown to a glass window, not cracking it because it was strong enough to take those blows from a high level human strength. A man stumbles onto his knees as the Batwomen stalks over him to pull him up by his hair. His gaze met her endless abyss of pure darkness, not able to see her eyes.

But he knew one thing, she was angry, "Answer. Me," She quickly picked him up to his feet, and shoved his face into the glass window, "NOW!"

Through the mirror, Captain Dewolff and Peter stood near one another, observing Cassandra's integration on one of the men that caused a major shootout in Bruce's fundraiser, "We're running out of time Spider. He's not talking just like the others."

"He will," from his angle, he glances at the captain, "You called us here for this reason."

"Only because all the people we tried to interrogate ended up dying before they said anything," She mentioned with a frustrated sigh, "And even then, it's hard to make sure security or commissioner Akin doesn't know you're here."

In those two days it hasn't been easy on either two heroes and the police commissioner of the GCPD. Dewolff had been trying and trying to get to the bottom of the now killer who seemed to be building a small army for a possibility of gang warfare, or something worse. Peter and Cassandra have been going around, high and low, morning and night to make sure no well else gets hurt. It meant for the likes of Peter to miss work, for Cassandra not to sleep, for the both to press forward through the fatigue to catch this killer.

Cassandra was taking out her anger, anger on the fact that people like these men would do something as bad as cause carnage to innocent, or not so innocent people. She drove her hand to his stomach repeatedly before tossing him to the table. The way they're body and head slammed on the table made Dewolff wince, "She's more aggressive than usual."

"Yeah.. They shot up, killed people, and tried burning down the place regardless if anyone was alive or not," Peter said with an arm cross, bringing attention to why Cassandra was this brutal. It didn't help that Cassandra knee they could take, therefore, enabling her to dish out her full strength without worry. On Peter's end, he still hasn't had a clue where and how they got their meta traits to tank his blows, "How's it going with the autopsy? Any findings the forensics found? Maybe even more about where their abilities came from?"

Dewolff sadly shook her head, "They can't make heads or tails with what they had or kill them. All they got was something that caused a sudden stroke, as if the brain was attacked from the inside and then nothing else."

"Like a parasite of some sort?" Peter hypothesized.

"Possibly. Look, this is all I can do for the time. I can't have you or Batwomen sneak into GCPD for that autopsy," a small frown was presented on her face, "I'll have to treat you as a potential threat if either you choose to go behind my back."

Peter couldn't argue back, nor could he argue for Cassandra. If they absolutely must get some sort of information that can link to what this killer can really do, then they'll have to mark themselves as enemy to the only friend they have in the GCPD.

And they need allies wherever they are, because each day it's becoming just a bit more scarce.

The man found himself thrown onto the chair, again, Batwomen prowled before him, "Answer me. Pain will stop."

He raised up his hands, his eyes pleading to her to stop for a moment, but all she did was grab him by his collar to pull him close, "Can't…" he said before spitting some blood out on the floor, "...We swore not to say anything."

"Tell me, so we can protect," she then pointed to him, emphasizing the protection he'll have if he simply snitches, "Or," she clutched her hand, flexing it just a bit as she still had enough ways to break him.

After all, he is durable enough to withstand her blows, "I…I.." stuttering came, before the sound of him gasping for air, "I…..!"

"Shit!" Dewolff moved inside with Peter quickly falling in. Cassandra let him go on the chair, seeing his eye roll back as she can only see the one thing that took a step back.

He was dying, and she saw it all once again. Behind those dark eyes, it widens in shock of seeing this person die by cause beyond their own action.

"This is it! This is what happened to the rest!" Dewolff mentioned just as Peter tried to go to work onto doing something, anything to save this man's life.

"Damn! He's going into shock!" He tried to keep his head level so he could potentially withhold the damage to the brain.

"We won't have time to call an ambulance!"

"I know! Stay with me!" Peter told the man that was slowly but surely dying. Peter couldn't do a thing to stop the aneurysm. He had no tools or anything of nature to at the very least to stop the brain from bleeding to death. Like Cassandra, all he and anyone could do was stare and watch as this person's life was being taken away by someone else, "DAMN IT! JUST STAY WITH ME! WE'LL GET HELP! ANYONE JUST HOLD ON!"

Peter knew his desperate speech was just desperate, desperate for this man to fight for his life. But there wasn't any point to it, he made his choice, made this decision to associate with a devil who gave him power, and now was taking it away just as with his life, "Z..Z..Zsasz…"

In seconds, the man was gasping for air, to only have his head slunk back on Peter's hand. The man that ended up carving out carnage with the rest of his now dead group, was now paying for the sins he committed. Yet it made none of them feel better about the situation, "FUCK!" Dewolff shouted as she stood up.

Peter momentarily looked at Cassandra. He was more worried about her from the way she simply stood there, watching the man dying by her own eyes. He would need to absolutely make sure where her headspace is once they get some fresh air, but they for now need to focus on this situation, "He said the name Zsasz, most likely as in Victor Zsasz."

Dewolff took a few more seconds to recuperate, moving left and right with her hand by her side before she turned to the pair of costume heroes, "...Can't be the leader, he doesn't work with much of anyone."

"And he likes to do the killing for himself," Peter shut the man's eye before standing up to get something done out of this situation, "For the time being we got something to go off."

"Yeah…I'll leave that to you two. I need to explain this to the higher ups and the other Commissioner."

"Will you be alright?"

"Who knows, but as your partner said, ego be damned. We stick together as a team then work alone."

---

Cassandra was riding the Batmobile; a heavy sport car that was reinforced with armor and basking in a dark chrome with a bat emerald on the middle and fixture-like wings on the horizontal sides by the back of its afterburner. She was speeding through the Gotham roads, bridges, soon making her way to a location that housed the insane in the rain that was slowly picking up as time passed. "Hey," Peter's voice came through, seeing as he sat behind her, "Everything alright in there?"

"Fine," she said automatically, like she was preparing to say that with how quiet it was between them.

"No you're not. Come on, talk to me. Don't leave me stranded in the dark," he said when removing his seat belt and letting his chin sit behind her shoulders.

She did not want him to worry about how she's feeling, how she's been feeling since the Halloween shootout, or how she's been feeling from seeing a man's life taken away by someone else's hand. Someone who had that power to simply destroy the main function of a human cortex, it was unspeakable in Cassandra's eyes, "There.. Was nothing to be done… Watching him die. I couldn't…" her voice kept going lower and lower, not out of desolation purpose, but getting lost in the image of watching another person dying.

"You didn't kill him Cassandra."

"I might've caused it."

"Dewolff mentioned every time they've gotten closer to at least a squeal, they ended up suffering the same fate as this one."

"Still…"

"Hey," he wrapped his arms around her neck, not even the turn in high speed was able to move Peter, "None of that ok? I should be the one guilty enough that I couldn't do anything to save him, just like some of the people in the fundraiser."

"But you're not."

"Because sometimes there isn't anything we can do. We both know that we can't save everyone, even if those people deserve it. And either way, no one deserves death like that."

Hearing him, feeling his arm, letting her cowl gently lay just a bit by his arm, it was enough for Cassandra to not think about the worst outcome today and focus on what needs to be done now, "We have to stop carnage."

"That who we're calling him?" He felt her shoulder shrug, "Well, better than calling him holiday man, or zodiac killer."

A snort came out of her lip. Leave it to Peter to make light on a situation involving a killer on the loose, "Kingpin? Word on him?"

"Still in iso, hasn't awakened since he got stabbed," they then saw the middle of the Batmobile that had a holographic look of Gotham city, getting a call from Batman himself, name also on print. Cassandra quickly ignored his call, "You know he'll eventually call back right?"

"Need him away from this," they were passing along another bridge, with the sight of cars becoming less and less, and now the sky started bathing in the rain that began pouring ever so slowly, "Remember?"

She didn't need to look at him so he could understand. She knew he knew, she knew he remembered. The promise she made not only to Batman's mortality, but also to each other that day.

---

A year ago

Cassandra and Peter stood in the Batcave, in a section that had glass chambers broken and costumes burning. This was once a chamber that held costumes for not only the Batman, but others who either used to work with Batman, or were working for Batman before his change.

But now they stood in front of mirrors that were broken, costumes burning more and more into cinders, and both didn't know how to react to the situation at hand. For one, Peter stood silently, his expression hidden behind a pure black costume with a huge white spider emblem in front chest and back. He still had his huge white lenses, but it moved, shifted slightly and looked like he held a scowl upon seeing the damaged costumes, and even parts of the body look to also be moving, like it was alive. Cassandra held herself, shuddering at what had happened, shuddering of the fact he would go as far to wipe away the memories involving his many adventures with his friends.

Not only wiping away the good parts, but the trauma behind them, the pain that at the very least was supposed to remind him to keep going. Peter's fist began tightening before he let out what seem like black tendrils out into the air, roaring, but also letting it slammed to the top of the cave, "HE'S GONE TOO FAR…!" The tendril punch made the cave quake and bat shriek from Peter's anger. Peter moved away from the glass chambers as he was ready to stop the madness. But Cassandra quickly stood in front of him, the white eyes now squinting with a glare of death, but she didn't back down to his anger, "Out of my way Cassandra! Bruce needs to be stop! And we're the only one that can stop him!"

"Not by you!"

"Well then who else will take him on?! You?! YOU'VE BEEN THROUGH ENOUGH AND I'-"

Cassandra punched him, right on the nose. She winced, holding her hand that shook from hitting his hard skin. She knew for a fact she might've broken her middle knuckle from that punch, yet it did the job. It shut him up, "..My fight! Not yours! I'm the… Only one!" Because of how emotionally frustrating she has been as of late, she simply gestures to herself and the bat costume.

Her Bat costume being the only one that wasn't burned. A sign from the Batman of a challenge to her.

Peter's eyes softened, his glare still there, but not as fierce as it was, "But..We just want you to be safe," he placed both of his hands on the palm of her splintered knuckles. She can feel the suit he wore let part of itself on the place that needs healing, quickly patching it up and slipping right back on to him, "..We don't want you to get hurt."

"Stop...STOP! STOP! STOP!" She shook her head, shouting repeatedly, shouting and showing her frustration of everything around. But most of all to Peter and what was going on with him with this black suit he's been wearing since coming back to Gotham, "NO WE!" she shook her head, and then her fingers pointed to the chest that held his white spider icon in the center, "JUST.. You.. Need… You...Not this."

"We…Can't.. Don't want to get rid of this," he turned away from her, the feeling of regret burning inside him. He knew what this was, an alien symbiote that needs a host, it's telling him to do things, say things, to erase the pain, his pain, and her pain, "It wants to help. I can.. Feel it. Don't you get it Cassandra?" He turns to her, "With this suit I can do so much more! I can keep everyone safe! For the first time I feel like I can finally be the hero everyone needs, and be the hero you ne-"

"NO! NOT THIS! I DON'T NEED THIS! YOU'RE LIKE BATMAN!"

"But I don't kill!"

"Shocker!"

"I didn't kill him!"

"Rhino!"

"He's alive!"

"Mysterio!"

"He's..." Peter's face began looking more drawn, and he couldn't look at Cassandra as he recalled more of what he did to some of his rogue's with this suit, "He'll live...Right?" Peter then let himself groan, "Course he will! We made sure he's unconscious like everyone else we fought Cassandra!"

"MAY!" Hearing his aunt being thrown into the conversation made him flinch. The white lenses steadily widened at being reminded of his Aunt and how she would've reacted to his acting, "YOUR UNCLE!" Another parental figure only serves to make Peter look away, but Cassandra forces him to keep his eyes on her. She can tell he wasn't directly looking at her, didn't want too, nor even wanted to face the reality of knowing the disappointment he would've brought to his parental figures if they saw him in this condition. Cassandra would lift his chin up, having him look directly at her even when she was uncomfortable touching the symbiote. It might've not done anything, but to feel this alien and how it had a mind of its own didn't sit well for Cassandra, "...This isn't you.."

"But...Gotham needs this Cassandra…" Noticing how uncomfortable was from touching the suit, Peter gently removed her hands from his chin, letting the suit take off the mask to reveal his tired, sleepless expression on his face, "I'm not strong without it..."

"You are," she placed both hands on his cheek, "Need you. Not this. When it's over. When I face him. We will make…Him stay…Away.. All this.. But, you… Free yourself. I need you..Promise me...You come back...Not this. I need you and only you. By my side. The Bat and the Spider..."

Peter can feel the symbiote not liking the words Cassandra was bringing to it. The words that involved separation for the greater good. It started to repulse and Peter can feel it becoming angry, but most of all, scared of what's to come. In doing so, Peter backs away from Cassandra, letting the symbiote close off his face, "...We...I...Promise."

He knew what he had to do, she knew what she had to do.

But it didn't mean they wanted to face what's to come, to accept what will come after today, but they have to face their own demons, otherwise Gotham will keep suffering.

---

Present

Bruce sat in the kitchen, the kitchen that he familiarized himself with when he moved in with Selina that almost feels like more than a year ago. His phone was in hand, tempting to press the call button again. Tempting to know more about what's going on in his city. Or at the least, wants to know more about what's going on. His thumb drifted on to the call button, but then he let his other hand stop him. He felt his eyes closed just as he let out a sigh, and tossed his phone on the table, 'No… She and Peter can handle it,' he told himself, trying to please that part of himself that isn't pleased to sit where he's at.

He still isn't at peace with the way his life had led. Part of him still feels like Gotham needs him, even if he broke that one rule, even if he knows the possibilities of the body count he'll carve in his path, he still feels like he's needed, 'I want to believe they can handle it, that this threat can be manage...But something tells me this won't be a simple crime they can solve and dash away. The few battles and crimes that happen in the year since it's just been those two were remotely easy. With Peter once more focusing more on being Spider-Man, crime rate plummeted so low that only those with some balls would dare to do something when he's on patrol. And with Cassandra it was the same thing, no one dare to foil against her since...Since essentially she's my dispel, the person who took over the mantle, the only one sane enough to do it...It's what she wanted to do, what she prepare for, and it's why I counted on her and only her to do better than I ever could. But still...I still feel I need to be there to help them,' Bruce placed both hands on his forehead, letting it brush his hair back, '..I still want to be part of helping Gotham, more than using my money and being the head of my company.'

In his inner monologue with himself, in his inner battle he's having, he felt something purr right by his leg. He found a small little black cat right by his leg, rubbing his head and not being bothered how bony and thick his shin was from years of condition like a sword. He let his lip smirk as he picked up the cat to let it sit on his lap, "Checking on me?"

He didn't just ask the cat, one that had a name tag called Kent, but also Selina who was now coming out to check on her husband. Like he who only wore a boxer to cover his private part, Selina simply wore a gown that hid the nipples of her breast and the lower regions of her body. No matter the age, Bruce would always see and find his wife the most beautiful woman he ever laid eyes on. He never thought he would tie the knot with her, not with years of their relationship being all over the place. But somehow, they manage to get to the point where they're together permanently, "He hates when you leave bed," she grab to cups, then open the fridge to grab a wine that was light to drink, pour for the both of them, close the fridge just before sitting right near him, "And so do I," she past him his cup, "It's getting cold you know?"

"Hm," he rummaged through the glass of wine, taking a sniff of it just before lightly drinking it, "Couldn't sleep again," he said in a monotone manner

"Because of the recent murders that are getting worse?" She asked when sipping her own wine. Bruce didn't answer, staring ideally at his drink, lightly swiveling it around as he watches the liquid move one way or the other, "...How many times have we had to go down this road?" Bruce didn't answer. It only serves to slightly make her eyebrow furrowed from his lack of response, "I'll answer that plainly and easily. A lot," her shamrock eyes turn to him, staring at the side of his face instead of him doing the same for her, "And I can't do a damn thing can I right? But be a supportive wife…" she then turns away from him, looking at her glass of wine before drinking more of it, "...The worst part is knowing that I'm doing this alone. Cassandra can't face you with how much you hurt her, how much you scared her, and she doesn't have the courage enough to at least talk to you. Look at the fundraiser, if it wasn't for her boyfriend or I, she would disappear the second you approach her. And let's not forget her boyfriend, who mind you, both of you always had a complicated relationship in terms of seeing eye to eye. Either he used to be so rebellious or you used to be so stubborn that neither of you can be on the same page unless someone is the middle person to help you both. It took years for the both of you to find some common ground and be able to work together properly, and that came at the expense of Jason's death. Sure! It could've been before his death, but it took a long time Bruce. With what you did last year? He can't ever forgive what you did, because he looks up to you in the manner of wanting to be as strong as you. Now, he can't do that or ever do that. The only thing he can do is keep Cassandra from becoming like you!" Selina poured more wine, feeling she just needed more, more for all this stress that's now leaking out of her.

Like she's been holding it in for a year, or hell, more than a year as it feels like it. Sensing the tension, Kent scurried off Bruce and moved back to their room, "And don't get me started on the rest; Dick tries to talk to you, but you can't bear to hear or see him with what Joker did to him. Barbara is probably the only person you talk to on the same level as me, but even she keeps her distance of the mental torture you put her through last year," she took a gulp of wine before pouring more, "Funny how Jason should've been the one to idolized you more when you started murdering criminal... Yet, you only seem to push him away with how far you went. Hell! Tim and Steph won't ever come back because they had enough of this city.. Those two poor kids feel like they don't have a place to belong and they had to get away from this place that took everything from them… EVEN FUCKING ALFRED CAN'T STAND YOU! BECAUSE YOU PUSHED HIM SO FAR AWAY THAT HE WON'T EVER LOOK AT YOU THE SAME WAY AGAIN! AND I'M ALL ALONE TO HANDLE YOU! I'M THE ONLY ONE STILL HEAR BRUCE! AND I'M THE ONLY WHO HAS TO HANDLE THE FACT THAT DEEP DOWN, YOU STILL WANT TO CONTINUE YOUR CRUSADE OF LAST YEAR!"

Drinking and drinking, it didn't go unnoticed by Bruce. What made him finally look upon his wife is when she threw the glass bottle across the room, letting it break and drench the wall with the bit of liquid left in it. Once looking at her, he stared upon her frustrated face, how strands of her hair fall almost to her eyelids, how her breathing was ragged, and how much she forced herself to not look at him, 'She...Shouldn't have to deal with me...She...I...Don't deserve how much she does for me..A far cry from years ago when she mostly looked out for herself..'

Feeling guilty of all that his wife has to deal with, he put his hands on her wrist to stop her from taking a swing of the full bottle of wine, "...I'm sorry I've become a burden to you Selina," a monotone tone was replaced by sorrow. Yet his facial expression remains poker like.

An instinct to hide his emotions, like always. Selina gritted her teeth, "Burden…?" tears swelled from the once lively shamrock eyes as she pulled her hands away from him, "Is that how you see yourself…? Or is that how you've always seen yourself Bruce?" Bruce again didn't have the answer for his wife. She didn't bother drinking more of her wine, and instead of letting her frustration keep flustering, she sighed, let herself become softened, and took his hand to hold it, "...How am I supposed to be a wife to someone who won't let me in..? Who day in and day out, still wants to be the Batman, but not the Batman you once were..? How am I supposed to be a wife to a person who can't bury that past behind him? How am I supposed to be a wife to a man who can't move on, to move forward and be something better than what you created?"

The shamrock eyes met the steel blue eyes, and even when she can't see how he is, what he is feeling, the slight shift in his eye that tore away from her eyes said one thing. He's lost, confused, and doesn't know how to stop thinking or let alone being who he's really been since he lost his parents that day in a crime alley, "I don't know Selina."

Chapter 5: Hate

Rain plunged over the two heroes as they left the Batmobile. Not one made a comment about it, not even Peter bringing his light heart feel into how soke his suit was becoming. It was somewhat convenient that whenever something was brewing, or bad that was happening in Gotham, the rain drenched the city and its hero in it. It was like some sort of sign for more to come, to expect the worse, the horror to seep through in this city once more.

The worst part was that winter was reaching close by, meaning snow would hit Gotham at some point, but for now, it was pouring rain. Lightning would strike in the skies above as the two hero's approached a gate. One that had the name of Arkham Asylum.

The two heroes were no stranger for what the place held; the many guards that cover the area outside of the building, to even some can be seen through the windows from the higher or lower level of each designated location they can see, emphasizing the need of precaution and safety for those that work here. Didn't help that some had to suffer through the tiresome rain that wasn't letting up. Not to mention with the rain mixes in with the winter feel of coldness, it only serves to bring shiverness to some guards. It inquires most to wear coated hoodies over their protective vest, sleek pants, and combat boots.

And the usual times they had to visit this place, the two heroes were the talk of the town as they strolled by the Asylum guards, "What are they doing here?"

"Probably another ongoing investigation."

"Damn. You think I can grab a photo of Spider-Man?"

"I thought he stop doing that?"

"Why are they here? They're just gonna make our shift harder."

"Quiet! You know how this Bat can get. Heard she got a temper."

"But damn…She's a fine one. You think I got a chance?"

"With the way you look? Fuck no."

Differences of opinion from the guards that only serve to lay the foundation of the uncomfortable feeling this place had.

Entering the facility, they can hear it all; from the cries to be let out, to the banging of heads or walls, the arguments, the curses, and the utter agony of why they exist. This was Arkham Asylum, housing the insane, but also holding the more extremely dangerous people that can't be loose in Gotham without a watchful eye. The horrifying part was that this was just the sound they heard from some of the inmates here in the Penitentiary side. This section of the Asylum held the easier inmates that weren't the more popular inmates that threatened Gotham in the past. But both the Bat and the Spider knew when they start heading more in-depth into this area, it'll only get worse. The building the pair was in had a few more levels that held more than hundreds, thousands of people they helped lock away here, "Hold it you two," the pair looked to a security guard stopping them in their tracks while maintaining his post with an arm rifle in hand, and a sidearm by his waist. Unlike the rest, the dark skinned man had a hook that replaced his left hand, "Gotta take away those weapons so you don't scare the inmates here," he said with a glare.

Cassandra had no time to indulge in what he was saying, time was of the essence and she could always find another way in, "Oh, is that a new rule here officer Cash? Because then you might as well kick us out before we make a ruckus," Peter's light heart voice came through amongst the bombastic noise of the Asylum inmates.

In doing so, Cash let go of his serious expressions momentarily and chuckled, "Been a while since I saw you two," he and Peter grace each other with a simple hand shake, while nodding to the Bat to which she did the same. His expression would again shift to a stern look, "But I know this ain't a social call, who do you need to see?"

"Zsasz," Cassandra spoke, glad that she could always rely on Cash to not beat around the bush. Yet, she wasn't fond of his small talk, it just means time was wasting more and more.

He nodded, his expression darken like his skin when the mention of Victor Zsasz came as a subject, "Follow me," they did so, passing by securities and other guards when walking down the bleach hallway, "We ended up moving Zsasz out of the penitentiary side after he killed a few inmates here not too long ago," they stopped by nearby door, scanning the three people of their identification, "He's still as psychotic as ever even when he's becoming older and slower."

"Taking a wild guess he's in the upper levels?" Peter questioned.

"Yeah, hanging with the big boys and girls with abilities," the second the door opened, the cries of the various inmates became more clear, a green ambient lit over the three of them as they walked into the many prisons that held the crazies of Gotham. Some tried to pry open the cell, bang their heads, moving left and right as they muttered words and such. Amongst the insane, you do have those who are calm, chit chatting to their neighbors, paying no mind to what's going on, some even can be found sleeping as well.

But the two heroes also took note that a majority of them eye as soon as they enter, unnerving Aaron, "Jesus...It's gonna be a rough shift today," he said under his breath while rubbing his eyelids.

"If there's any consolation Cash, we're sorry about this."

"Don't sweat it, web head. It'll be rough, but it won't be as boring anyhow," Cash responded.

They then started moving, walking past cage's filled with inmates. Some of the guards had to control the area by using their taser sticks to stop them from either hurting themselves, or hurting someone else. Yet some of the inmates neither cared for the cage nor the pain in their eyes when seeing the Bat and the Spider, "I'LL KILL YOU BOTH WHEN I GET OUT."

"STOP THEM! THEY'RE GONNA KILL ME!"

"FUCK FACE! COME BACK HERE AND LOOK AT ME!"

"WONDER HOW THE MAN SPIDER TASTE LIKE?! HOPEFULLY BARBECUE! COME HERE SPIDER!" The inmate would try to reach for the cage, but since Cassandra was close to Peter, she ended up catching a few of his fingers and snapped it like a twig when moving, "AHHHHH!"

'Filthy place with Filthy people. I hate it,' Cassandra thought to herself about the Asylum, scowling enough that helmet curved with it.

"HEY BITCH! ONE DAY THAT PUSSY WILL BE MINE!" While Cassandra ignored it, it didn't help that Peter gave a small look when passing by that specific inmate, "AND YOU'LL WATCH ME STUFFING MY COCK IN HER MOUTH TOO! HAHAHAHAHA!"

"Ugh…" Peter's head turned away when they made it to the elevator, "Just one of the many reasons why I hate this place with a passion."

"You're telling me," Cash pushed an elevator button that caused it to close and then sent them to the upper levels of the Asylum, "I can't even retire when people of my status keep quitting from all this intense shit that goes on here. Sure, it's slow nowadays thanks to you heroes' over the years, but uh," Cash scratched his ear that had Cassandra notice he wanted to say something that was probably a touché subject, and she probably can gander what it was.

"Batman?"

"Yeah..." Cash found himself sighing once looking at Cassandra's direction, "With what he did when barging in here and raining hell on earth, this place had become less problematic to deal with. But to those criminals that survived his torturing tactics, only brought more fear into handling them and this place. Who knows what they're capable of in the state they're in, and that unpredictability is what scares most folks away from this place instead of the inmates themselves," Cash explained, "No matter how much things change for Gotham, some things just remain as wicked as ever, even behind closed doors."

It was odd for Peter to be reminded of this contemporary subject of Gotham changing but not really changing once more. While he tries to be very optimistic in terms of himself and especially for Gotham, today of all days seems to be reminding him of the terrifying aspect of the dark world of Gotham still existing, 'It's like the more bad guys we put away, new forms of bad guys end up showing up. When does it end? When do we as good guys win? Questions and questions, no answer insight as usual. I've dealt with it since I was 15… 12 years later and it seems like I'm getting more and more tired of this never ending battle.'

Peter's own prodding was put to a stop thanks to Cassandra tugging the pinky of his finger. A small gesture for him to get out of his head because they got work to do, 'Right… No time for one of my many questions I have for myself,' the door opened up, putting them into the newer level designated as the intensive treatment. It was a bit more calm, the atmosphere here simply revolving around various doctors who were handling some of the inmates while the guards kept watch. Some were out of their prison cells while others were still being held in their prison cells as the doctors examined their psyche. With it being calm, Peter and Cassandra could note the overall aura in the area and the people that work here. Less people were stressed, more chilling with one another if anything, some of the doctor's also were able to communicate with some of the inmates here too.

But these inmates weren't exactly in the best of shape. In particular to one that got the attention of Peter, he glanced at one of his older villain's being checked by a doctor. The man was handcuffed, behind helped by other doctors because he couldn't walk right, and barely paid much attention to the doctor's answer. Behind his mask, Peter frowned at the sight of the old man that looked like he would rather be with death than to be on this earth, 'Phineas…'

Peter shied away from Phineas, trying to make it so Cassandra and his own presence wasn't in the area. But the elderly man that was Phineas saw him, saw the Spider that walked from his side view, and his eyes bulged at the sight of him, "..no…NO NO NO! WHY IS HE HERE?!" The shout of both anguish and fear had him on high alert, and he tried to make a run for it but only fell on the ground, "HE'S COME TO FINISH ME OFF! JUST LIKE HE KILLED MY SON! HE AND THAT BLACK SUIT OF HIS!"

With a slight turn of his head as he kept walking, Cash was aware of the situation, "Doctor Cooper! Put him to sleep so he can go to his cell in peace! You should've known better than to have Phineas' out of his cell!"

Cassandra saw how Peter couldn't even have the words to tell him the truth. What good would it do when the man was lost in his own psyche? 'Can't come to terms with..The truth…He killed his own… Not Peter... Not even…With that suit,' she said to herself.

Doctor Cooper's eyes furrowed when watching the guards brought him back to his feet and she did what she was told. She used a syringe that she had in her small bag to put him to sleep. Once done, she let the asylum guards do the rest before she quickly marched over to Cash before he could move into the next area of the intensive treatment, "Cash, you know they can't be here. They're going to upset the inmates just like Phineas!" Just like Cash, both heroes turn to her, which out of reflex, gets her to take a step back and lower her head. She expected that level of attention, but wasn't expecting their fast reflexes to turn to her the second she opened her mouth, "..No offense that is," she said, holding her own hands and looking away from the prying eyes that were now on her.

Before Cash could say anything, Peter took a little step forward to bring some sort of comfort, "We know what happens when we do be here Miss Cooper. We know the risk, but we have to be here just a bit to solve a spree of murders going on in the city," Peter said in a consoling manner, "As a person who's technically been running this place under Mr. Strange, I hope you can understand that."

Her blue eyes look up to his white lenses. Unlike second's go, what seemed like shyness at first was replaced quickly by annoyance, scowl, and not caring expression as her eyes rolled too, "Hm… When is there not a murder spree going on in this city?" she said in an almost quiet manner, "Just.. Don't instigate the inmates here ok?"

Peter tilted his head, almost as if he was slightly offended with how she made it out like he would do it in the first place, "If I'm being honest doctor, any of my villains would do the instigating more than I would," Peter took note she wanted to say something back, but Cassandra tugged on his costume sleeve. A turn to her meant he had to drop the conversation as time was ticking and ticking. To his luck, Doctor Cooper already exited the conversation, going to the nearby desk where she was typing away on a computer.

Cassandra eyes didn't leave the doctor though, almost like she was perplex about something, but didn't have enough to go on, "Odd…How she acts.."

Catching her small speech, Peter looked to Cassandra as they followed Cash deeper into the intensive treatment, "Maybe it's us that got her riled up?"

Cassandra shook head, "Don't know…Can't put…My finger on…It…Off."

"Hopefully it's nothing, let's focus on what we're here for."

Cassandra nodded. Just like the outside of the place, the deeper part of the intensive treatment was littered with guards to be on point, having some engineers making sure whatever system needed to be up to date, and some inmates that were being escorted elsewhere to their imprisonment. With being on this level, it meant they were indeed walking into the territory that houses the super villains of Gotham.

The same supervillains that Peter and Cassandra had fought countless of times. Once the doors open up, again the inmates look to the pair of heroes walking down the hallway, "Oh look!" a man hopped in front of the electricity cell he was in as soon as he saw Peter walking nearby, "The Spider is and his partner is here to grace their presence!" he said in a jester-like tone that went with his crazy green jackal like look; sharp teeth, blinding yellow eyes, claws on his finger tip, and huge ears that went with his menace look.

Peter intended to ignore him, one that served to anger the green jackal, "DON'T IGNORE ME SPIDER!" He growled, "SHE WILL BE MINE AGAIN! I'LL SAVOR EVERY BIT OF MS STACY THAT THE GREEN GOBLIN COULD NEVER HAVE DONE ONCE I GET OUT OF HERE!"

Peter took a deep breath in and out. Behind the mask, his eyes narrowed and he was scowling very hard at the mention of his dear friend. Cash glanced at Peter, wanting to ask him if he was alright with how remotely quiet he was, but he didn't bother asking. For one, it wasn't his business to pride at the moment, and two, he had the Bat helping him control how he felt. It was small for people to miss, but because Cash was nearby he can see her fingers holding his. Regardless of what, Cash knew a bit of what the Jackal-like creature was bringing up, 'God rest her soul and her father. Both didn't deserve what happened to them, and the Spider himself tried his best to save them both but was only too late. And stuff like those you can't get over, not when shitty people like Miles Warren taunts them with the past,' Cash thought to himself.

They would pass by more of Peter's villains, such as a man who was relatively bold and rather old as Phineas who eyed Peter, "This cell won't hold me forever! If black gate didn't, what makes you think this will?!"

"And I'll put you right back where you belong, Toomes!" Peter commented back, his jester side coming back to him easily then Cash thought it would. Next was another bold man, but one who had his face painted in a zigzag pattern that resembles electricity itself. Oddly enough, he was more contained in an area with no ounce of electricity, the cell resembling any other normal cell for normal inmates, but it being very dark with the only source of light coming from outside.

Something he tried to reach and pull, but nothing came out. Just like the rest, he saw Peter from the outside, and his fist tried to yank the cage as if he had the strength to do it, "GIVE ME MY POWER BACK YOU FUCKER!"

Peter gazed at the man who wanted nothing but power, yet ignored him all together and kept moving forward, 'Not if I can help it Max.'

Then there were others who didn't say much but just stare at the spider; one whose face was pure white, one who kept trying to shift into water but the cage stopped him, one who was pure fire but couldn't burn his own cell, and another that was pure black but had white hair with Asian features being at least noticeable. Compared to the others, he was reading a book and paid no mind to the spider. This one, Peter stared at just a little bit, wanting to talk to him but would have to find another time for it, 'Been years since I last played chess with Martin. Not sure if I can find the time for that...Or if I even want to.'

The three people heard the sound of something huge, banging, frustrated sounds, and they ended up reaching to the cell that house two powerhouses; one was bigger, clad in a gray rhinoceros suit, and the other was smaller, clad in a green suit that was more armored base then the rhinoceros, and was equipped with a tail similar that to of a scorpion. With the cell being big enough for the both of them, they were tussling each other, with the scorpion evading and trying to kill the rhinoceros, "FUCK YOU STUPID FREAK!"

"YOU AND I ARE THE SAME FREAK!" The rhinoceros man said with a Russian accent.

"I'M NOT A FREAKING IDIOT WITH A HORN!"

"AND I'M NOT A STINKY BUG AS YOURSELF!"

"I'M NOT A FUCKING BUG!"

"AND I'M NOT A FUCKING IDIOT!"

The guards that monitor the situation were enjoying it themselves, something officer Cash wasn't pleased to find, "The hell you two doing?" He asked, stopping the walk to confront the guards with one of them recording the fight.

The second Cash confronted them, it made them jump at his surprise appearance, especially with Spider-Man and Batwomen by his side, "We were-"

"Just you know…"

"Put a stop to this before it gets out of his hand," he ordered them, "Now!"

"Yes sir," one of them pressed a button, supplying the room full of gas that had the two villains coughing and wheezing, before a huge slump was heard, suggesting the two were now knocked out.

"Huh…Well they're certainly getting along nicely," Peter spoke, back to his more light hearted self compared to earlier.

Cash huffed at his response, "Tends to bring too much distraction these days. You know, people find the time to bet on who would win or who would kill themselves first," Cash then shook his head as he continued forward, "Everything can be seen as a god damn game sometimes when it comes to your rogue's Spidey."

'It's not supposed to… This was a place… To cage them. Cage them all,' Cassandra thought with a hint of downcast feeling of how some of the guards were no different from the inmates they monitor, 'Not be treated as a.. Game,' Cassandra would find herself staring a bit too long at the villains and guards that watched them, enough so she still felt the fingers of Peter, tugging her to keep on moving.

They switch to a different wing in the intensive treatment. Instead of the rogues that Peter fought, it was now the rogues that Cassandra fought in the past. Unlike Peter's villain's that had the tendency to beg to be released, or taunt him with trauma from the past, her villains weren't like that in the sense. She saw a man whose face was scarred, deeply burned with the pure skin being clear as day, red as day from the neck down. The other part of his face was more clear and stable, and even when his mouth was closed, the scarred part showed his teeth grinding as he flipped the coin in the air while laying in the bed he resides in.

He saw a glimpse of the Bat, but said no word to either her or the Spider.

Then there was a man muttering to himself as he stood by a wall with blood stained riddle marks that wasn't just carved into the wall, but also the floor and ceiling. Peter felt bad at seeing this man become so small from what he once was, 'No man deserves this… Why couldn't you back off when Bruce had enough?' Peter questions only to himself at the effect Bruce had done to the man that was once a person full of riddles, yet now can't solve a riddle involved in saving his own sanity.

They soon pass by more of the inmates; such as a man talking about Alice, a man who was cuffed from head to toe as his body was frail and the shadow of his room covering beside the layer of mask that resembles a doll, another man cover himself in a nearby corner, cowering at the sight of the light, and also, the Bat that passes by yet another person who's own sanity was put into question as he used words that rhyme with piggy.

And so on, and so on as they walk across the many inmates that were once Cassandra and Bruce villains they fought against. All these people from years and years of fighting Bruce and Cassandra were now residing to be lesser versions of their bold character. It all had to do with Bruce doing so much in terms of breaking them that a portion of them had their mind and body broken. A sign that Bruce wanted to give out for those who dare attack his city other than killing them, 'All his fault….If I was a second…Late, the Bat would've… Kill them, kill them all,' Cassandra clenched his other fist that wasn't occupied by Peter.

Just remembering those events only made her hate what he did to the symbol. Yes, it brought much fear, but in the end, it also brought the wrong kind of fear. The symbol of fear was meant for the criminals, the villains, the people who prey on the weak, but not the innocent who needed protecting. In the end, there wasn't anything good that came from it but staining the once great symbol that people felt safe and protected by.

"Hey Aaron!" Cassandra was brought out of her thoughts when hearing a high pitch voice getting Cash's attention.

Cash quickly facepalmed when he heard the sound of a peculiar villain in the upcoming cell, "Oh god. I always forget about her," he said under his breath.

Peter let out a small chuckle, "At least she has her own way brightening up people's day," Cash simply glared at him for saying something like that.

Upon meeting this peculiar villain, who happen to have a blazingly sly smile, skin pure white from head to toe it seemed since the orange jumpsuit she wore cover most of her skin, and hair that had signs of also being bleach, both being red and black, left being red and right being black of her pigtail hair, "Oh! And the Bat and the Spider are here too?! Look Ivy! Our day has gotten a whole lot better!"

Ivy being a green woman, with some part of her skin like the legs and arms have trademarks of plant leaf being base in her, phenomenal red hair that she look to take great care of, was more interested in the book she was reading then to even look at either Cash, Cassandra, or Peter, "Quinn," Cassandra said shortly.

"Harl's! Ivy! How's it hanging in the ole Asylum?" Peter question match the same energy as the pitch white women

"Great! Splendid! Nothing beats hanging around with old friends again right Ivy?" Ivy only answers to flip a page. The ignorance didn't bother Harl's not one bit, "Don't mind her she loves that you ask how she is Spider."

Ivy groaned at Harl's instigating her to give a more appropriate answer. She simply waved at the two, "Hey look! She didn't ignore us. I think you're rubbing off on her very well Harley," Peter remarked.

"I hope so!" She backflips on the bed, "We're so madly in love!" She added while hugging Ivy in her arms.

"Harley I'm reading," Ivy said in a monotone voice.

Just as it came, she quickly let go, "But it's not just me! It's thanks to you!" She flip herself off the bench and right towards the bar that kept her away from the three people, "Somehow, you never gave up on me," she let her arms hang on the bar as her smile went from a small frown, and her tone became little more less energetic, "Even when I kept going back to being bad, or kept going back to him all together, you didn't gave up on me."

"There was a time where I saw different though Harley," Peter reminded as he got too close to the bar, letting his wrist lay on it, "Even if he changed for the worse last year, if it wasn't for Batman, I wouldn't have seen what he saw with people like you. And that everyone, regardless of what, deserves some level of second chance, so long as they keep trying to be better."

"Heh! You just have a way of words that makes a woman fall in love with you," she said with now more of a teasing tone, "I guess that's why lady Bat's here fell for you huh?" Cassandra didn't answer, but her small movement that involved her getting close to Peter was a reminder that Peter was off limits.

By any means necessary, "Well Batwomen took a lot of work," Cassandra would twist his fingers, "ALOT!" he screeched from how she twisted. Durable or not, Cassandra knew how to make Peter feel just enough pain.

Harley, taking notice of what she did, found herself laughing, "Man! She got you so whip! One of these days we should have a double date!"

"I'll have you know she doesn't," twisting it again, she dragged him away from Harley's bad influence, "I repeat! She doesn't!"

"SHE SO DOES!" She shouted so they both could hear.

Cash could only eye roll when following the two heroes'. it was never an easy moment with Harley with how crooked, twisted, and sadistic she can be, but he won't deny how calming she's been, and get's around the two heroes', "I'm just glad she dropped the whole psychotic phase and became just a little bit more tolerable. I don't know how you two could ever stand her."

"His fault."

"Hey! Harley has always been a good person," the two looked at him, Cassandra double taking at the words that came out of his mouth, and Cash having a deadpan expression of what the hell could ever make him think on that notation, "...OK maybe she never was as her background pointed her doing some shady stuff before becoming a psychiatrist in the Asylum, but she is a work in progress right?" Not one of them acknowledges the chance of her becoming just a bit better. Because even if she isn't raining terror over Gotham like how she used to, she still has those psychotic tendencies on display. Yet once more, time's have changed Harley and it's all thanks to people like Peter that gave her the support she needed to become a better person.

Even when the progress is indeed slow.

Finally, they reached where they needed to be. A cell that was guarded just like the rest of the cell, housing a man who had his own hand wrapped in metallic locks. His bare skin can be seen with matching tally marks; marks that seemed to indicate it was his doing by cutting his own self. Those same tally marks went from arms, feet, stomach, and even a few on the right side of his temple.

This is where the little gesture to hold themselves together was gone, Cassandra let go of Peter's finger upon seeing the man known as Victor Zsasz. Cash made sure to disable the security shield, and without word, let them both go in. He clears himself and the rest of the guard out so the heroes can do what they have to do privately . Peter and Cassandra eyed the man in front of him who also did the same to them, a cricket of a smile formed from his dead eyes, "..The heroes of Gotham…" His voice trickle with playfulness, yet sadistic undertones as he crackle and stood up to them, "To wha-"

"Carnage," Cassandra cut him off, moving closer as she wasn't afraid of his presence, the utter vibe of psychotic stature he gave off as he watched her, eyed her up and down, "Talk."

With his hands locked tight shut, he could only use the locks as a way to brush the few bits of blond hair he had on his head, "Carnage. Carnage…" He paced back in froth, before looking back at the two heroes, "I love carnage, but that isn't the art I would partake in. You both know that."

"You must hear what's going on?" Peter chimes in, helping Cassandra to explain what they mean, "The guards talk, every other inmate talks, we know that just like any other person that you must know that Gotham is having another one of those days. Best of all, the person committing these acts of murders knows of you, and it's to assume it's vice versa."

Again, Zsasz laughed, but more hysterically than earlier, like a hyena in the wild as it sees its prey, "..I know a lot of people Spider, even those who crave carnage," he would walk up to the spider specifically, "Be more clear."

Cassandra shoved him to the wall, lifting him up by his neck since he wore no shirt on. She didn't like the constant dancing around he was doing, nor being so close to Peter, "TALK! WE KNOW YOU KNOW," She then tosses him to his bed, his head impacting on the wall nearby, and she leapt on his body, just enough for her own boots to cause a bone to be fragmented in his legs.

He howled in pain, yet laughed at it which only served to anger Cassandra. It reminded her of a certain clown that would do the same, that would laugh and laugh even in pain. Peter had his arms crossed when he approached the bed, if it wasn't for his presence then Cassandra would've done more than fracture his leg, "You keep acting like that then she'll break a lot more than just one of your upper legs Zsasz. And the beauty about it is, no one is watching," Zsasz got a brief look at the outside.

He saw no guards, and took note the camera that was watching him was offline. And yet he was still gleeful, "Then you know what I want then! This pain will only make me happy! But what will make me more happy…" he groaned, laughed the pain off as he then watched the Bat that was on top of him, "Is a new mark…!"

Cassandra would move herself off Zsasz. In her own head, she wishes to the heavens above her that she can hurt him enough to wipe that smirk off his face, but what good would that do? It might make her feel better, or it might make her feel worse. Because there's a point in brutality she rather not go to. Something Peter crossed before in terms of how far he can go with brutality. And how Batman crossed over that line to the point of killing. So, she took out a batarang, and gave him what he wanted as she removed himself on top of him.

Taking it with he ease, sitting up as he ignores the pain of his fragmented legs, he points the left batarang at the left side of his temple. And began cutting. Peter averted his eyes at the sight of the bloody mess Zsasz was making. It was even worse because Cassandra couldn't look somewhere else; she watched as every part of his body enjoyed it, the bleeding, the drive to match the cuts on the other side of his temple, the fact that he knows just enough how to bleed himself but not to bleed to death, and all the above, this is what he wanted.

This was his pleasure.

Peter would motion his body to get in front of Cassandra, knowing how frozen she became the second he started cutting, "...Ohhhhhh…Yes…." Zsasz looks up to Batwomen, giving her the batarang back, "I always feel truly alive as I feel the flesh of my skin take in the air I breathe, the blood that drips upon me that I love the taste of it," he said, doing exactly as he like to do by licking the blood he felt on his temple, "...I don't know the man exactly, only that he came one day, evoking with the same blood lust I have and love dearly. Tall…Red hair…Talk up a storm about revolution and that I could be a part of it. But I rejected the offer and yet, I listened to him as he convinced others into whatever crusade he wanted to undergo. Like he's some type of religious figure. Some called him just that, Carnage, but I also heard whispers of a name he goes by simply...Kasady."

Batwomen took the batarang from him, and at the same time, couldn't help but stare at the weapon in hand, drenching in blood as she could barely see her reflection, '...Is this…The madness he always had to undertake… To get his way?' She asked herself, questioning the lengths she must take for justice.

She then taps Peter's shoulder, gesturing for him to leave with her. He too didn't like what they had to do to get their way, to give Zsasz his satisfaction, but what choice did they have to make? "And Spider~" Peter turned back to Zsasz just when the security shields went back up, "He really is a fan of you. Talks a lot about you like you're his hero, and he hopes to one day meet and talk with you."

This would only fuel to unsettle Peter. That this unknown killer may be doing all this for attention, his attention. But for right now, everything was still kept cryptic and in the dark.

---

November 3rd

Peter was by himself in the Batcave, sitting behind the chair as he went through records after records of this killer known as Kasady. The Batcomputer as Bruce calls it was able to get through and seek the majority of the records for the asylum and blackgate. But so far, he had found nothing on this killer. And that brought out an insufferable sigh as he tried to keep his eye open. Even with stamina that was beyond normal people, Peter can get tired like anyone else can. Although for him, it's been about 3 days, or at least close to 3 days, and he was powering through the fatigue "Peter?"

His attention while still focused on the Bat computer, lit up just a little bit from hearing Barbara coming through it, "Hm..?"

"How long have you been up for?" Barbara asked. She still wasn't in Gotham but she took the time to help narrow this Kasady person with Peter. Seeing that Cassandra was driving around through Gotham both keeping it safe but also searching for the killer her way.

"...You don't wanna know that," he responded as he rubbed his eyes, shaking his head to make him stay up, "Found anything on your end?"

"Kind've hard to scavenge through the whole United States to find the Kassidy we're looking for, plus I'm not home in Gotham till tomorrow. And you would know if you weren't falling asleep."

"Great point indeed," Peter said in between small yawns he tried to shake off quickly. The Bat computer was large enough to fit everything and anything when it came to showcasing what needs to be shown. Barbara's end was live streaming her footage to Peter this whole time, and yet, he wasn't exactly keeping up, 'Even with staying up for almost 72 hrs, we're still no close to finding him,' Peter thought to himself, frowning at his unsuccessfulness to catch this person, 'Doesn't help that I also have no lead on the person Kingpin was talking too. Whoever this person is, are covering their tracks rather smoothly enough. Either they have similar tech to the Batcomputer, or they're getting outside help of some sort.'

Beyond worrying about Gotham, there was more going on in his head; for one, how did this Kasady guy slip in? Where did he come from? How did he escape out of their grasp? He also had a tab open that reviewed the footage from days ago, and he found no one that fit the build of what he and Cassandra got from Zsasz. How could he when all they've got on the guy was his height and hair? It irks Peter that he wasn't able to get this done.

And since this was a potential meta, who knows what powers they had? Maybe they can temper with the footage or change their looks to avoid being found out. Peter also knows it irks Cassandra the same way, maybe even more since she still hasn't come back to the Batcave, "Cassandra," Barbara called out to Cassandra's end. She was listening to their small communication but she kept herself mostly silent, "I know you're hearing me. Go back home and rest. Not sleeping won't help in finding this killer, and will likely risk yourself getting hurt."

The only response that was given out was the Batmobile making a loud audible turn with cars honking their horn loudly, and Peter saw from the lower hand corner that had Barbara and her on voice call, was Cassandra disconnecting from the communication line. Peter found himself slumping into his arms, still keeping his eyes on the Bat computer, and still giving himself a reason to stay up, "You too Peter. Like it or not, I still have to look after you both when no one can."

Peter chuckled, "Must be troublesome then."

"For you? Hell yeah, 12 years in fact of me having to keep you in check. If not you then it was Dick, if not him it was Jason, then there was Gwen, then Cassandra, Tim, Steph, hell Bruce of all people, and the list goes on," Barbara found herself giggling when looking back at the many times she had to make sure the Bat family wasn't in over their heads when it came to the mission, "I always had to make sure to be responsible for all of you when none of you can't take care of themselves."

"Well I'm completely fine I'll have you know."

"Your breathing is improper then it usually is."

"Impossible, I'm breathing normally," ironically, she quickly put herself live, and since she knows ways to access the Bat computer even away from the clocktower, she can quiet easily make sure the computers own camera is on, "...Unfair," Peter said, letting his forehead sink into his arms.

"You and Cassandra have been at this for far too long without sleep. Doesn't matter if you're capable of staying up longer than most people, you need to rest Peter, and you need to make sure she gets rest. After all, she listens to you the most," She said, convincing Peter while having a clear view of him having the whole city on his shoulders.

He looked up to the computer and Barbara could've sworn those bags under his eyes had gotten worse for the past two days, "As people keep saying, we don't have the luxury of Batman by our side, or Robin, or Nightwing, or Jason and his Red Hood vendetta, or Steph who use to be Batgirl at one point," he then leaned back on his chair, arm cross has kept his gaze fixed, "It's just us Babs.. And when stuff like this happens, it'll be us to make sure this city is safe. Like always," he said with a simple directness that was nothing but the hard cold truth of the present day.

There wasn't a Bat family like before. It's only really Peter and Cassandra. Barbara helps here and there, but she knows very well that these days, she has shifted her skill set outside of Gotham, slowly but surely, not always being around like now, "I know…" She nodded with sympathy being clear on her face as she held her hands together, "I'm… Sorry I'm not as useful as I was before."

Peter felt a little shock when she said that, and also felt like it was his fault putting that perspective on her, "No. No no no," he shook his head, sitting up straight, "I get it. You started having a life outside of Gotham just like almost everyone else. You deserve to be happy and comfortable then stay in Gotham."

"I… Wasn't talking about that Peter," her tone trailed off when Peter didn't pick up what she meant.

He felt stupid for not thinking about the obvious of what she really meant. He felt his face cringing from not catching that, "...Still isn't your fault Babs. He could've done that to anyone if he wanted too."

"Still doesn't make it easy to swallow.. Sure, I love Ted and the life we're building. But I still want to be more useful than Oracle," she found herself frowning, "I still wish to somehow use my legs like before.. Hell, maybe one day we'll have the technology to make me walk again."

Her being just at least a little bit hopeful, made Peter smile just a bit, "Maybe one day I can do that for you. I built Alfred's hands he can use, maybe someday I can find a way to bring back functions in spines."

She too smiled at that hope of him doing something great like that, "Yeah. One day. But today, we are who we are. Can't change the past. But we can change the now, like you resting. I would've thought you would heed my lessons but you still don't."

Peter chuckled again, reminded at the fact of him not taking her lessons in stride as much as he should, "What can I say? I'm not always the best student."

Barbara couldn't help but eye roll at the truth of that, even when Peter is a very smart individual at heart, "Just get some sleep, for me. And make sure Cassandra get's sleep too. She's nearby."

Peter yawned, stretching his hand in the air as he heard the Batmobile jumping through the river and straight into the entrance of the cave, "I'll try, just make sure you keep us posted."

"I always do, don't I?"

She logs off from her side while Peter goes to meet Cassandra as she detaches her helmet from her head. Peter would leapt right in front of her to stop her from going into the training area, "...Move," she said with clear signs of no patient, "I need to train."

She would try, but once moving to the side, Peter held her arms around her waist, making sure she doesn't move unless she wants to fight her way out, "Not today. You haven't slept for a day and a half."

"And you haven't….Sleep for 3 days," she countered, their eyes not meeting one another. One stared at the Bat computer, its research on criminals with the name Kassidy being suspended, and the other started the elevator that led to the manor.

"Almost 3 days," he corrected, "Come on, we need to operate in full strength for the next day."

It took her at least a minute for her to move, to move her head enough to glance at Peter. She saw the tiredness, the slowness in his movement, how his eyes were slowly closing yet he forced himself to stay up, the pure will of it to keep going no matter how much his body says otherwise. It was always a pleasure to see this characteristic of Peter from her eyes.

Even when it also takes a lot out of him, she will admire how great his will is, and how she aspires to have that will just like him, "Ok…But wake me… In an hour."

She also knows, the knowing smirk coming from his face that he won't, and somehow, she didn't mind that he would go against her wishes. For her sake.

Chapter 6: Wasn't always like this

Sometimes Peter dreams, dreams with endless possibilities to them. Sometimes they have no meaning, sometimes they do. Sometimes it can be the most happiest of dream's, or it could be the worst of nightmares. Sometimes it can be possible things to come, or the past that hunts. But for now, Peter is having a nightmare, nightmare involving the past, and often than not, they're always linked to his Spider-Man life.

Like any other time, he has control of himself when in a nightmare, enough to make it feel real. But the majority of time, he's unaware that he's having a nightmare. Right now, his nightmare involved chasing after a maniac who kept running away from him, "COME BACK HERE JOKER!" Peter pushed and pushed. It often felt like every time he was pushing himself enough to outclass the Joker, he should've been able to reach and catch him.

But he wasn't and he kept laughing, "YOU CAN'T ESCAPE FROM ME JOKER. I'LL CHASE YOU TO THE DEPTH OF HELL IF I HAVE TOO!" In brittle rage, Peter thought to hell with it, he had enough of chasing and leapt to him.

And when that didn't work, he used his webbing, pulling him forward to tackle him. Suddenly, he and the white face, green hair, lips red, mouth grinning widely as he dressed in a purple suit, the Joker himself were sent crashing out a window and were now free falling, "YOU THINK YOU CAN RUN FROM ME?!" Peter ruthlessly punched him, not giving the joker any room to hit back, "YOU THINK I WOULDN'T CATCH YOU?! AFTER WHAT YOU DID TO THEM?! AFTER HOW MUCH PEOPLE YOU HURT, THE LIVES YOU TOOK, AND FOR WHAT YOU DONE TO ONLY FAMILY I HAVE LEFT?!"

The Joker kept laughing, and Peter kept punching, "YOU WON'T CRIPPLE ANYONE AGAIN!"

Laughter, then punch, "YOU WON'T KILL ANYONE AGAIN!"

Laughter, then punch, "YOU WON'T SCAR ANYONE EVER AGAIN!"

Laughter, then punch, punch, punch, punch, punch, and punch, "YOU WON'T TAKE AWAY MY FAMILY AGAIN! YOU WON'T BREAK US APART EVER AGAIN!"

Yet he kept laughing as they kept free falling, "STOP LAUGHING!" Peter proceeded to choke him.

And somehow, he was still laughing even when they approached the ground. Nor did his laughter stop when Peter felt himself becoming bigger.

He was now engulfed in his black suit, but now transformed into a monster with teeth as sharp as a shark, tongue as long as a snake, and roaring with anger like a beast.

He would then proceed to eat Joker, chomping his head off till he stopped laughing.

But the laughter didn't die out, and so he proceeded to eat the rest of his body.

---

Peter felt his consciousness awakened. He knows the type of dream he had, one that comes around every now and again, and so didn't react to it. He felt restless, not just from the dream, but the fact of how much time and hour's he spent just being Spider-Man. Super stamina or not, he knows there are certain limits he can't quite possibly break, after all, he's still human even if he's more than a regular person. With all the stuff that happened last year with Bruce, his time with the black suit, all he's been is devoting himself to keep his city safe all day and every day. And it meant there wouldn't be any time for his civilian side to get fresh air, or his social circle to get the time of the day to see him.

Then again, Peter knows his social circle has been on the low these days. Besides his job, it's really the only thing that gave Peter a purpose to live outside of the costume, other than that it's just the mask and costume. But it's also because of someone close to him that slept, snuggling in his body that made sure to keep the balance he has relatively fine as it can be. Cassandra knows how important it is for Peter to have that balance, and even with how time has been different for Peter, she strives to try to help him the best way she can. Without her moral support, Peter wouldn't worry about working.

He'll solely be Spider-Man as he did before. One where Peter doesn't exist, and only Spider-Man exists.

Cassandra was the same on this front, albeit a little bit different. For Cassandra, its only ever been the cowl, the mask, the symbol she live by. One where she has the utmost respect for, and has to do her part to make sure the symbol still has meaning to the people of Gotham. Without Peter's own support, she wouldn't be out in the street unless she's wearing a costume, she wouldn't look to interact with Selina or Barbara unless it's a must, she'll isolate herself truly so she can be the one and only person that can and will protect Gotham.

Because that's all she ever wanted to be in the first place. The person to be able to replace who Bruce was.

Peter knew the sun was already up without opening his eyes. He can feel the light reflecting on his cheek that was coming from the curtains of their window. From his estimate, it was still morning, maybe closer to the afternoon, which meant time had pass, time was spent resting, sleeping. Deep down, he rather focus on catching this killer that's been on the loose for months, but then his focus would be depleted, and so will Cassandra own.

Cause if he doesn't make sure to take care of himself, then Cassandra in turn would not do the same. He often forgets how much they're linked to one another these days. Sometimes it's not a bad thing, to have moments like this where he feels close to her, her snuggling close to his bare chest, her squeezing his hands as he holds on to him, and her own hair wrapping and flutter around his arms. Those are the moments where he takes every second to know he's with her, and she's relaxing, resting instead of being Batwomen. But he's also aware, and sometimes forget, that she simply has a habit of forgetting to take care of her well being when he doesn't do the same, and is not attentive to what she needs to do.

Over the years, Peter truly found out how similar they are in those areas. How their selfness for others makes them forget to take care of themselves.

Peter would slowly open his eyes, finding himself staring at his partner as they lay side by side with one another. Just the mere sight of her made his facial expression lit up, 'She's always so beautiful like this, regardless if she's most likely half asleep,' Peter noted to himself. Unlike him who has a six sense for danger in case anything happens, Cassandra is the type of person to not get ready, but stay ready. Case in point, she would rather be half asleep just to make sure no one tries to break into the manor and tries to either steal, or kill them for whatever reason.

It was rare, but Cassandra doesn't hold things to chances or faith. And it was her way of looking out for herself and her boyfriend

Beyond his girlfriend, Peter knows he isn't as tired as before. A few hours of sleep can restore his body and mind with ease compared to a normal person, but he also needs to hydrate and eat to make the process even better. Being a meta human means to do a lot more to keep everything stable and functional, therefore, Peter needed to keep up the work of staying healthy so his performance in the battle can always be 100 percent as intended. But as such, Peter is use to when time's like this occur; when he needs to focus on stopping the villains before they do anymore harm. It's the selflessness he has that always needs to protect others than worrying about himself, and it's something he can't ever shake off.

Because he knows what happens when he becomes selfish, when he turns the other way for a second. And he never wants to do that, ever again.

A small sigh came from his lip as he played with Cassandra unbraided hair in his arms, 'Trail is still cold as ice. Even when we have something, it's still not enough. I know from the years I've been doing this, I'm no slouch in terms of detective work. Yet, I know others like Bruce, Jim, his daughter Barbara, Dewolff, Tim, and a hell of a few others outside of the city are better than me at this. And it only serves to make me feel useless when the likes of Babs and Dewolff can't bag this guy too,' Peter thought uncomfortably of the situation surrounding this carnage killer.

Because of the thoughts now running to his head, he felt Cassandra nuzzling more into his chest, lightly kissing it. It was enough to bring him out of his thoughts and focus on the fact that he was right on her being half asleep, but more importantly, that she was resting and not trying to train at this time. For now without worrying about the killer on the loose, he's focusing on resting just a bit longer along with Cassandra. But the problem was it wouldn't stay like that as he wanted too; he felt his body urge him to get up, how his mind kept going back on knowing the killer is out there, and that his time needs to be use wisely if he isn't gonna go to work. Deep down, it irks Peter to know that he would love nothing better than to stay in his bed with Cassandra, sleeping, snuggling, watching over her half sleeping form, then to do what's right.

Deep down, he wants to be just a bit selfish, but knows what happens when he decides to be selfish for a second, to turn his back for that one second. And he can never do that, because he knows the deeper repercussions of making that same mistake again.

With a kiss on her forehead, Peter would look to untangle himself off of Cassandra. It wasn't easy, even with his own strength and flexibility, Cassandra knew how to wrap and trap herself around Peter's body, enough so where strength wouldn't be enough. Unless, that is, he wants to hurt her, and by god himself, he never wants to do that. So instead, he slowly moved out of her grasp. He used his arms to swivel his legs out, then used his other free arm to unwrap his other arm, allowing him to gently pull Cassandra off him. In the process, she gave out a huff, groaning at him leaving. Peter found himself chuckling at her small responses, as if she was a kid losing a teddy bear of sorts, "I'll be back," he whispered in her ears, "Don't get up now ok?"

The only response was a scoff. In an instant, she turned her body forward, letting her head lay flat on the pillow and went from half sleeping to straight sleeping. What was so satirical of this action was how easily Cassandra went to sleep if she wanted too, 'Till this day, she never told me how she does that,' Peter said to himself, pouting and scratching his hair.

Peter would shrug and move on. Unlike some of the times, this time he wore a boxer and let himself grab a slipper so he can at least try to be somewhat normal in the manor he lives in. Before leaving, he caught himself in the mirror, eyeing himself from head to toe. He noticed seeing how long and big his brown hair had gotten, enough to glaze his eyes, and it was so messy that it went all over the place, 'A whole year without cutting it huh? New record. May and Gwen would be very disappointed.' Then there was the beard that started to grow from a 5 o'clock shadow to an actual beard, 'Cassandra is gonna soon start berating me if I let it grow again.' His hazel eyes had bags under it, a clear lack of sleep because of being Spider-Man on a daily basis. And then there was his own body; it was and still is in shape through all the stress, the fighting he's been through in the 12 years of being a hero. There were no signs of scars from those battles thanks to his small healing factor clearing it up, and even his little chest hairs were still intact. Peter didn't know if it was a good thing or a bad thing that he looks relatively clean in terms of physique and looks compared to Cassandra. Turning to her, he can see her scars, the ones that had purpose, meaning, before and after she became who she is, 'If I could, and if she let me, I would do anything to take away those scars,' Peter would then frown at this thought, 'But from the 6 years I knew her, I know she would feel disrespected if I ever try to do that for her. Those are reminders of how she became who she is, memories of all the battles she endured, no matter how damaging they were...' The last thoughts involved seeing her back had the bat symbol scar.

One that made him shy away from looking, knowing where that came from, 'He's gone Peter...He can't hurt anyone, not even her,' if there's one thing Peter felt ashamed of, it's having those thoughts on the dead. With who he is, its often hard to be satisfied when crazed villains do die, knowing they can't hurt anyone. But, no matter how terrible they are, Peter can't help but feel that sense of guilt, because deep down, even if it's very stupid.

He truly believes everyone can have a second chance of redeeming themselves, but that doesn't mean their past can be forgiven.

Peter felt himself standing there for too long, focusing on his thoughts again. He made to leave the room, taking his phone so he could check on who messaged him. It was 12, almost 1, half a day had gone by meaning he had to make up for it. He first saw Jonah text him that he better come to work soon or his own ass is fired.

Wasn't the first threat and won't be the last.

Robbie was checking on him and he was hoping everything on his end was good. He also made sure to appreciate the footage he brought to the Gazette so that they can use it for the news anchor and website.

Peter would text back that he's doing fine and should be ready to work real soon, and that he's welcome.

Vicki made sure if he was ok and that he hadn't quit. Of course, Peter cheekily respond back that he wouldn't leave his sidekick anytime soon.

She very much didn't like being called a sidekick, after all, he learned a lot from the more experienced reporter.

What surprised Peter was a text from a peculiar person he didn't expect to check on him; a contact by the name angry bird. It made him stop for a moment before he even approached downstairs to take the time to text them.

Angry bird: The fuck is going on over there with you and Cass?

Peter: You know it's early for that language right?

It took a few seconds to respond.

Angry bird: Never too early for anything Parker. Now what the fuck is going on over there?

Peter eyeroll and shook his head to vulgarity still being of use.

Peter: Let's just say Gotham is dealing with a long Halloween situation. Killer is now aiming bigger, may have an army, but nothing we can't handle.

Angry bird: Good luck with that.

Peter's eyebrow shrewd, 'What the hell was the point of checking on us then?'

Peter: That's it? That's all you wanted to say Jason? Might as well kept to drinking then.

Angry bird: First offf. Fuck you. Secondly, What is there more to say ? I'm checking on you and Cass aren't I? And you can both handle it, so you said.

Peter scoffed, 'Asshole to the end. I swear…'

Peter: Oh right! I forget, you don't do things the normal way. And even then, you had so many chances to message not only me but Cass, and you decided now you would do it? Now when we're dealing with something a bit more abnormal? Great friend you are.

Angry bird: And this is why I don't text you at all Least little bat knows when not to be patronizing or high mighty You know your more in line with Bruce compare to the rest of us thinking you know what's right and wrong thinking you know what's best for us I wouldn't be surprised if you ended up like him sooner than later.

Peter's eyes widened for a second before glaring at his phone. If it wasn't for the years of learning to control his emotions, he would've snapped it in half.

Peter: You're drunk aren't you?

Angry bird: Does it fucking matter am I wrong but then again you wouldn't admit to it pussy.

Peter: By all means, keep killing yourself. Then I'll have to go wherever you are to save you, again.

Angry bird: And I'll go somewhere where you can't find me. It's my life Parker I can do whatever the fuck I want I didn't ask to be brought back but here the fuck I am. Died because of how fuck the world is and came back to find the world is still fucked

Peter lean by the wall, his hair following to his eye lids, one that couldn't help but soften in how his conversation going with an old, suicidal friend.

Peter: When was the last time we interacted without arguing?

Angry bird: We were always fighting Parker.

Peter can see he was still texting, stopping, then typing again, like he was gathering his thoughts.

Angry bird: Whether together, or at each other, we were always fighting.

Again there was a pause.

Angry bird: Maybe if Gwen was alive things between us would be easier.

Peter felt a sigh come out of his breath as he turned off the phone and let it press on his forehead. He couldn't keep going back and forth with the conversation with Jason, he's already stressed as is, and dealing with him is piling up more stress then he should deal with. Though tragically, there was a reason why he didn't, and likely would text him again from taking a break from dealing with him.

It's because he's his responsibility, Peter needs to take care of him when he can't do it himself. Or so Peter believes, 'If there's anything I can do to make him get better I would do it in a heartbeat,' Peter told himself, 'But there isn't... Just...Talking to him is all I can do, and I'm terrible at it since I can't be the bigger person into not making our conversation be a heated exchange of words. But it wasn't like this. There was a time before Jason was killed by Joker, came back and became an assassin of sorts through Talia Al Ghul, and then ended up being driven to the edge thanks to Joker last year again... There was a time where he, and we, weren't like who we are now. If...If only Gwen was here, maybe she can do something...Or maybe not... It's been hard, even harder to be friends with Jason without her keeping us together. I thought I had it nailed down at one point, but again, everything changed after what Joker did to everyone. And I wasn't here to help out...'

Thinking about Jason, what he was like before, and involving a special women that kept them close to one another. Peter felt his mind think about a particular time. One where this woman, Gwen, helped form a bond that was supposed to be unstoppable, and it was at one point.

A time where he was an inadequate version of who he is now, and Jason being very impulsive compared to who he is now.

---

12 years ago

"Why the hell are we doing this Parker?"

"You really think I know? Are you that dumb or what?"

"Blindfolded or not, I'll whoop your fucking ass!"

"Like you can even land a finger on me."

"Don't underestimate a Robin. They're closer to a Bat than you think."

"Ooooo! I'm so scared. You're not even close to his level anyhow."

"Gahh! Why the fuck did I agree to this shit?! Can't stand your mouth!"

"Because that's how Gwen is. Always finding her way to win with us and able to give a beautiful puppy dog eye."

"I hate that shit."

"Huh. Something we can agree on."

"You need to keep her on a leash."

"Me?" Peter turned to where Jason was, which was right beside him in the middle of a football field. His eyebrow arched, "You're the one who wanted to be friends with her in the first place! Therefore, it led to you knowing more about me than I should've given out. At least I know what I've gotten myself into since I knew her way back in middle school. You on the other hand? Probably we're trying to get into her pants like every other guy."

"L-Like your any better!" Jason stuttered out a response, causing Peter to laugh at hearing his stutter, "Shut the hell up! I was compromised! I didn't know she was-"

"She was what? Remember, say anything bad to her then your eating bricks for breakfast. And it's not me you have to worry about, or actually, yeah, you do gotta worry about me," Peter threatened.

"Why in the hell would I berate her? She's a viper that got the best of me is all. And please Parker," through their argument, Jason feet kept tapping out of impatience, "You may have the powers but that's all you have."

"Says the guy who was supposed to keep an eye on me, and ended up getting distracted in his mission," Peter jabbed, with a smirk being plaster on his face.

"Wanna say that to my face?!" Jason's face tightened, and his voice hissed with anger, pride, and a tinge of ego to it.

And Peter despises it all together, just as Jason despises his snarky, smart ass, brat of characteristic he has, "I am…Stupid."

Scowling faced off with a cocky smirk. Robin against the Spider. Gotham's own two young heroes' who can't get along. This is what it's like since they cross paths, and for the past several months, it doesn't seem like it was getting any better.

And someone had to do something to make them see reason to lessen their disdain over one and the other, "ENOUGH!" Peter and Jason stop their bickering over hating one another's guts when a sound of a feminine voice shuts them down. Both rather be anywhere than near each other in Gotham's High very own football field. In fact, since it was late out, they rather be suited up for some individual crime fighting. But they found themselves here, having to be blind folded, and at the request from none other than a girl that would take pleasure at what she'll do today.

But she has to bear through their constant ego smack talk a bit more.

She has blond straight hair that was kept proper with the headband on top of her head, wore a comfortable jacket with a green day shirt underneath, jeans that were ripped yet held a pocket taser gun on the left side, and shoe's that looked to be running base. She carried out a metallic machine that was in stasis. She drops it by her side, and she then pulls out a paint gun from her bag, having it at the ready.

This was Gwen, best friend to Peter since middle school, and a crazy, cute girl that led to Jason being compromise, "You two need to learn to get along," just as her frown laid prominent on her face, so was her sapphire like eyes that squeezed tightly at hearing her best friend argue with a person who had anger issues, "I don't care about what Batman thinks about Peter or how you should keep your distance from us Jason," she was now between the two, arm's crossed, "You two wanna make a difference in Gotham? Then it's time to start being proper friends, proper partners."

Jason laughs, having his hands shoved in his pocket while Peter could only shake his head at this terrible idea that his friend had on her today. This only seemed to harden Gwen's scowl, "You're too funny Gwen. More funny than this guy over here," his head gestured at Peter's direction.

Peter scoffed, "Like you're any better. Can't even make a joke on the fly to save your life," Peter snidely said.

"Why the fuck I need to joke? This isn't a fucking game," he took a little step forward, but Gwen blocked his way from getting close to Peter, "You should do what Batman says and quit while your head."

"No one is telling me what to do!" Peter bit back, and went on to step closer but again, Gwen blocked his path with her elbow seeing as the other hand was holding the paint gun. Peter was obviously the tougher person to even keep at bay, and Gwen already felt he can simply move forward if need be. Yet, she trusts he won't, not when she's here, "You two are so busy in the night but what about in the morning? People still get hurt! People still get killed! People still get robbed! And both of you are nowhere to be found! Can't do crap in the morning because both of y'all sticks are putting fear in the night. At least I make sure Gotham is safe both day and night! At least I make sure everyone can feel protected even if they'll slander me because I'm a freak wearing a mask!"

"Or? Maybe its because you do a poor job at helping people Parker! Causing property damage, hurting people while you rescue them, destroying people's livelihood, hell! You got fucking powers and got your ass handed to you by the fucking Riddler of all people! RIDDLER! Guy has a question mark stick and relies on dumb asses to move his plans."

Peter gently moved Gwen to the side, no longer wanting Gwen to hold him back as he move closer to Jason,"Well sorrrrrry! I don't have Batman watching over my shoulder 24/7 like a baby! At least I'm doing things on my own. And that means yeah, I do make mistakes but I'll learn to be better whatever it takes."

"Both of you st-"

"And that's why your a fuck up," Jason added, cutting off Gwen, "That's why you'll always be a fuck up Parker. Your powers are the only thing that makes you who you are. Take that away, you're nothing and you'll likely die by being stupid."

"Oh my go-"

Peter let out a snicker of sorts when he made that comment, "Let's be real Jason, you can't say that knowing if Bruce hadn't decided to adopt you, you wouldn't have been Robin at all. Just another teenager like me trying to get by in this city. So who's special now?"

Jason felt his hands clench again, Peter mouth grinds as body tensed up, ready to move if he starts swinging. They were at the tipping point of ready to fight, and they were glaring at each other through the blind fold.

Gwen hated it, hated the bickering, the shouting, the constant fighting between these two. It had been like this for sometime with them, and Gwen just about had enough.

Peter needs to learn to rely on others even if they have differences of opinions and perspective.

And Jason needs to learn to count on those who have the same vision as himself instead of putting them down. Even if they're relatively new to punching criminals in the face with a costume on.

Peter felt his senses tingle, shoving Jason just enough that he doesn't fall but also good enough for him to also dodge. Jason was about ready to take on the spider if it wasn't for the loudly groan coming from Gwen, "Jeez, why do guys always feel like they've gotta prove who's the toughest in the room?"

Peter looked into Gwen's direction. He was about to take it off before his senses went off and he had to dodge another projectile. In doing so, he would avoid taking off his blindfold, seeing as Jason also got shot when trying to take it off. But unlike Peter, he couldn't dodge, "THE HELL?!"

"Gwen…Was that a paintball you tried to shoot at us?"

"Yeahhhh," she took out her phone, pressing a few buttons for two machines to raise up, transform like a gun, and get ready to hose down their target, "And also, remember the RKB we built?"

"The RKB?" Jason repeated with confusion.

Peter's jaw slightly drops, "You didn't…"

"Yep, better learn how to rely on one another."

"The fuck sh-"

"MOVE!"

"DON'T TELL ME W-"

The small machine that Gwen carried began being active, and locked onto Peter and Jason, "Target's acquired! Firing!"

Peter and Jason moved in their own directions in the field the second they heard the machine talking. The machine put the focus on the two teenage heroes, shooting similar paint bullets but at a faster pace then Gwen could. Peter had the ability to dodge effortlessly, back flipping, rolling, and overall using his ability to constantly move. Meanwhile, Jason simply ran, he had the cardio to run fast and not stop without tiring out. Yet it didn't mean he was safe since he's running around the field blindfolded for one. But likely, each time he might've looked to get hit, Gwen fired at him to make him change direction, "You bitch!" He shouted from afar as he got dent to his temple

"Looks like someone go-Ooof!" Peter too got hit when in midair, mostly because he kept repeating the same dodging techniques to the point the machine eventually hit him the moment he leapt in the air again. Getting hit didn't do much but off balance him where he ended up rolling and flopping on the ground, but kept moving, flipping to avoid the shots coming his way.

"Come on you two! You're supposed to be better than this!" Gwen said with an irritated tone coming through her motivational speech, "And I'm just a simple girl mind you!"

"One who is smart and is the daughter of a great cop mind you!" Peter hollered back.

"Which is why I got a name to live up too!" She knew she couldn't shoot Peter, and would be wasting bullets with how he dodges. At the very least, the machines took focus on him while she made sure Jason is kept on his toes as the miniature machine had their lasers set on Peter more. Try as she might, Jason too was slightly harder to hit, and in the process, Jason would run straight into a football goal post.

Gwen put her one hand by her mouth from laughing just to save Jason from the ammunition Peter would have if he saw that.

Jason growled for a second, shook off the pain he felt, and quickly got up to take cover. He took a deep breath in and out as he tried thinking of a way out of this shit, 'Could just take off my blindfold,' he quickly frowned at the thought, 'That Stacy girl already blasted me for that, and I would just lose anyhow. I'm not losing to the challenge she put out. I'll figure this out on my own!' But Jason doesn't know how since he can't see. It's a beautiful challenge he loves nothing more to accomplish but he himself knows he's not on that level to conquer a challenge without seeing. Especially one where the attacker has range to hit from any direction, 'Of all the lessons, why did it have to be something that I'm still terrible at?' Jason asked himself.

Suddenly he heard something land near him, bringing him out of his thoughts. They both can hear each other breathing and feel their teeth grinding at the sight of each other through their own blindfolds. Jason pulled him by the collar of his shirt, "Your girlfriend has balls, but she's damn well crazy for what she's asking for!"

He broke his grip while also slipping his head to avoid the paint bullets, and made sure to keep out a sight from the machine reach, "She's not my girlfriend! But you do have a freaking point."

"This is bullshit! Why the fuck she put us up to this?!" Jason shouted, questioning it all.

"Oh I don't know, she's crazy and she's even more crazy for believing that we can be some type of dynamic duo!"

"I CAN FUCKING HERE YOU TWO OVER THERE! I WILL COME OVER THERE SHOOT YOU BOTH! YOU KNOW THAT RIGHT?! MATTER OF FACT!" She does so, with Peter pushing Jason out of the way, causing them to not only run from Gwen's frontal assault, but also the machine.

"FUCK!"

"GWEN I'M NOT SORRY FOR WHAT I SAID!"

"I KNOW YOU'RE NOT YOU JACKASS!"

They kept moving, with Peter pushing Jason away, pushing him into a roll, and all the more actually making sure he isn't taking any shots from either Gwen or the machine turret, "Listen! The RKB only detects movement. Since it's mostly targeting me the most, we'll use that to our advantage," Peter planned as he himself was also busy dodging left and right.

"Why the fuck you two built that?!"

"We were bored, and 13!"

"BORED?! YOU GUYS ARE FUCKING WEIRD!" Jason let out an insufferable groan at the thought of knowing what else they could do when they're bored, like flood Gotham from all he knows, "So what you have in mind then?!"

"How good is your aim without seeing?"

"Utter trash since I'm still working on it."

"Ok so we'll try it my way. Get your robinrang out and throw when I say throw."

"They're not fucking robinrang you dingus! Don't you have your stupid web shits on you?"

"I ran out of fluids, and they're web shooters you asshole."

"...Fan fuckingtastic…! Ok, let's get this shit over with."

Suddenly, Peter took hold of Jason, and had him on his back. He curved his movement where his senses told him where the danger was, and sprinted towards it, "WHAT," Peter moved quick, weaving from the amount paintballs coming at him, especially Gwen who begin walking around to get a good aim off the two, "THE FUCK?!" Jason shouted, holding onto dear life with one arm and the other arm simultaneously took hold of two R shape shuriken's in his pocket

Gwen smirk, seeing the two finally decided to work together. It was about time as she had to push them to the far edge to for once, see that there are challenges that will be ahead of them that require them to work together. No matter how much they detest one another's guts.

"On three! One!" Peter leapt in the air, "Two!" Peter rotated his body downward, just enough for his body to fall and at an angle for Jason to throw thanks to his six senses, "Three!" Peter let go of Jason at a specific range where he could not miss.

Jason let out a roar, and threw the shuriken's like his life depended on it. It hit its mark, and Peter landed right back on his feet, just in time to catch Jason before he hit the ground.

The machine was hit dead on, stopping it from shooting and working all together, "YES! THAT'S WHAT I'M TALKING ABOUT!" Gwen shouted in excitement at seeing the two actually work together. She didn't even care that the machine lit on fire from it too, she was just happy that her best friend and her somewhat newer friend were working together.

She also had to take a snapshot quickly as Peter held Jason in a bridal style briefly. The pair ended up hearing her camera, with Jason already hating the idea of what she just took, "HEY! DELETE THAT SHIT!" Jason yelled as he took off his blindfold and went straight to Gwen.

And she ended up blasting him with a paintball, stopping his movement. Peter luckily saw it just in time when taking off his blindfold, and had a laugh at Jason's vexed expression, "I'm keeping it, unless you want me to tase you?" Gwen said in a threatening voice, even reaching to where the taser sat properly on the waist of her jeans.

Jason scowled, it made it a little bit more menacing with the black eye he had on him that was still healing from his nightly job as Robin, "You wouldn't dare…"

Peter stroll up to them, coming between them, "Alright alright. I don't want to take over Gwen's job now. Lord knows she's been doing such a good job between us."

In response to his timing, Gwen couldn't help but giggled while Jason scoffed, looking away from the group, "Just making sure where he knows I stand. I need to keep this stuff for memory's sake anyhow."

"You mean to use it as blackmail?" Peter questioned.

Gwen snorted and shrugs, "Who knows. Both of you better be on your best behavior then."

"Tsk… I don't gotta do anything."

"Oh ok," with the phone in her hand she was gonna use the picture to good use, "Guess I'll put this on insta."

"Wait! Gwen! Please don't!" Peter begged, going to reach for the phone, but Gwen was already moving. He then turned to Jason, "Jason! Say you're sorry!"

"Fuck that," he said with the corner of his azure eyes looking at Peter, "I don't give a shit."

"And sent!"

"JASON YOU ASS!" Peter would pounce on him.

"GET OFF ME BUG BOY!" Peter's strength made it difficult for Jason to push off, but he did learn from best, and he would pull Peter close to him with both hands, and quickly sweep his right leg enough for him to get the top advantage, "HA! NOOB!"

In response, Peter picked up his body with both his hands. Didn't matter if Jason was taller, the strength of a spider won every time. He would then toss him backwards, with Jason barely flipping in time to get back on his feet, "CHEATER!"

Peter grinned, "I have my way and you have yours. So let's settle this."

Jason too grin, "Fucking finally! Now you're speaking my language!"

The whole time their fighting went about, Gwen facepalmed at the two in the end duking it out, 'One step forward. Two steps back… Well there's always next week.'

She too couldn't help but record them fighting it out, for prosperity purposes. And found enjoyment in them trying to one up one another, learning not only how to fight one another, but how to improve one another where they have flaws.

In a sense, Jason and Peter were already friends. They just needed a reminder of what they were fighting for and put aside their differences.

---

Currently

Wanted to stop being in wonderland, Peter would continue his way through the manor. When entering the lower levels of the manor, he oddly smelled something good, something that made it alluring, and nostalgic. Peter recognizes that smell, and he knows Cassandra is not up to make it, especially with the way it was designed to smell extravagant.

He went to the kitchen, finding an elderly man in a black and white suit, a small gray mustache presented along with his head almost bold with the two sides of his head having gray hair, tasting the tea he just brewed up, "Hmm.. Could use a tad bit more honey.." He didn't notice Peter walked in, very focused on what he was creating, and certainly didn't notice the surprise, elated look Peter had on his face.

"Alfred…?" Peter spoke in an almost whisper, flabbergasted tone when seeing the aging butler in the manor.

Alfred didn't much flinch at the sound of Peter, putting the tea down and smiling at the sight of seeing a familiar face, "Hello Master Peter," he said in a sincere, English tone. Peter quickly went to him, both hugging him and lifting him up from the floor, "Please, do try to be careful with your strength! I'm reaching 70 as is and would like to live a little bit longer," Peter chuckled at Alfred's sarcastic remark when putting him back down on the wooden floor, "And where's your shirt? Only got on a boxer? You and Misses Cassandra have no manners these days!"

Again, Peter found himself chuckling more. He couldn't help but hug him again. All the stress he's been dealing with, including with Jason, felt like it just went away upon seeing Alfred, "It's so good to see you again!" He again hugged him, less empowering and soft to have someone like him in his life again. Alfred too shared back that same comfort, "I didn't think you were ever gonna come back to Gotham," when Peter let go, he soon found himself dimming just a bit, "Not since what happened with…Everything from last year."

Alfred took a deep breath in and out, "Yes well.. You could say I've been feeling a little bit homesick, but I will always come back for my family regardless of what had come to fruition last year. And also, these need just a bit tweaking from one of the brightest mind in Gotham," Alfred showcases his owns hand that had traces of it not being normal hands; there weren't any veins, looked to resemble metallic but with a dash of paint to add real coloring to it, and there obviously no small marks or dashes that comes with having a hand.

Peter looked at it, hazel eyes squinting when holding his fake, robotic hands. He flexes them, one finger at a time, but the reaction time seems to be ok like a regular hand, "What problems are you having with it?" Peter asked.

"Randomly it has moments of twitching," the second he mentioned, he felt the hand shake just a bit, "Like that."

"Probably just need a system reset," he turned both hands over, and placed his thumb on the center, feeling a small button that he pressed on and held for a few seconds. Then hands soon slump, with Alfred not being able to move it the way he wanted too. Another second later it turned on, "Honestly, it could be from the trauma you endured last year. After all, I made sure the hands were able to connect to the brain, acting as if it's a real hand and therefore, it'll react like a real hand would."

Alfred couldn't help but massage the fake hands, "Always seemed to be quite remarkable about these types of things. It's a blessing to have a mind like yours to be able to help people out."

Peter shrugs, "I don't want people to know I'm the one who has a hand in helping Wayne enterprises sell these things. I like where I'm at with the Gazette."

Alfred raises his eyebrow, not showing his small discontent of Peter still working at the Gotham gazette, "Come. There's much we should catch up with as I finish brewing the tea. Would Cassandra be joining us?"

"No not right now," Peter then chuckled, "But I wouldn't be surprised she'll join sooner than later, or, she already knew you were here."

"Oh she does. Hug me, lift me as you did," Alfred frown as their conversation moved into the Living Room, "She looked rather...Tired, just like you for one," both would sat across from each other with the sun lighting up the room without any need of lighting up the fireplace, "Seems this city has been both keeping you busy?"

"As it ever does," Peter would go on to explain some of the more recent events that have happened since Alfred's departure while enjoying the tea Alfred brewed for him. To the likes of what he and Cassandra had been up to, to the recent murders, and to the current events that are happening at this moment. Alfred listens carefully without needing to interrupt or question Peter of anything. He kept an eyeful watch on his expression; dancing between frowns, poker face, little smiles if it was something positive he had done, but all the more, Alfred mostly ever caught wind of negative like expressions.

And it only serves him to realize that neither Peter and Cassandra have been taking care of themselves ever since the events that led to the Bat family fracturing, "Other than that, Gotham has been for the most part, quiet."

"And that doesn't sit well with you," Alfred interpreted, easily enough that Peter nodded, "And because of these newer events, it's why you feel the need to move, to finally be able to move without worrying about the mundane schedule you wired yourself towards too. I guess some things are meant to constantly be repeated. As much change this city undergoes, it can never always seem to truly escape from the crutches of people who want to watch the world burn. But, for better or for worse, it's good to see you not in that dreadful black suit you wore."

"Yeah.." Peter rubbed the back of his neck rather uncomfortably, "Wasn't easy to get off. Belfry almost got destroyed if I hadn't gained control to stop myself."

"And ever since your fight with Venom, you haven't seen or heard anything of him?" Peter shook his head, "Have you looked for him?"

"I...Yes and no," Peter would take a sip of his tea before continuing, "I did get a tip from the Titans something about a similar figure such as him in San Francisco, but since that was months ago, nothing else. I mean after our last battle that involved the death of his wife, I just assume he's isolating himself...He was shocked, recoiled at what he did, and didn't blame me for the position put himself in."

"And...Do you blame yourself that you couldn't save his wife?"

"Course I do Al," Peter said, looking straight into the eye of the butler, "Didn't matter if Brock manipulated her with the symbiote, I could've figured something out before it was too late. But I didn't, and when she came to her senses..It was too late, not even Cassandra could've helped."

Alfred felt himself sigh upon hearing Peter's guilt tremble throughout the Living Room. It was something he's been so familiar of, not just with him, but another person he very much took care of him when his parents had passed and years later would decide to become a bat to protect his city, "Without disrespecting you Master Parker," Alfred put his own tea on a nearby stand, "It seems you're still the same person since I last saw you. Not only guilt still drives you to be better, but the smaller things such as you still working at Gazette. I would've thought you would leave that job and go for what you love most. I would've thought you, learning, living, would understand that what you do, you do your best all of the time, and you can't save everyone."

Peter shook his head, "I have to try, to keep trying Alfred. You know this better than most, that when I'm around people that need saving, no one dies, no one should die!"

Alfred felt his lip tighten when Peter mentioned that. Because he knew Peter since he was a but an angsty teenager, who dresses himself up like a Spider to make sure everyone in Gotham can go home peacefully. He knows full well that both guilt and pride is what keeps him from admitting that people will still die under his watch. If it's not those things, then the thing that ties those two together is the past and how traumatizing it is for Peter. It's likely why these 3 things are what's stopping the full capabilities of what he can do without saving people with a mask and costume on.

The truly saddest part was the hypocrisy of what Peter deals with. Because he knows he can't save everyone, but at the same time, he believes he can save everyone, "Peter... You can't keep letting the past regress you when you have your feet forward. With all the technology at your disposal, you know you can always stay on top of Gotham, even without the need of the Gazette. Better yet, Bruce and Lucius taught you the art of surveillance, you can always make sure to bug the Gazette to keep tabs on them. Which you've clearly done years ago."

Peter found himself for a second quiet as a mouse. His eyes looking away from Alfred, cutting deep at the truth that he himself doesn't want to admit. There was more going on as to why Peter doesn't want to just leave the Gazette, more than guilt, pride, or the past in itself, and Alfred wanted to get to the bottom of this. It was now, then later, and it's also part of the reason why he had to come back in the first place, "Does this...All have to do in a way with..." Alfred swallows a silva, taking his time to say this one thing that will hit at the heart of it all, "...May's passing?"

Peter hazel slightly widen eye at Alfred butler that had helped him so much as he helped everyone else who was part of the crusade that Bruce started, "...It's…" his fingers tap the cup of tea in hand, taking a small sip to gather his words, gather his thoughts, to say things he only kept to himself, not even telling Cassandra, "...It's..More than that that Al...I mean...When the people you love all just vanish cause of you...It does something to you..." Peter took a deep breath in and out, "It makes you want to be better and make sure...No one else has to die..." Peter said with clear despondency in his tone, but also confidence as well.

And so there it was, the nail in the coffin of it now had to thread carefully when choosing his next few words. Alfred leaned forward just a bit with both hands clapping together on his shoulder, "...They all, mostly Gwen and May, wanted what's best for you Peter," Peter's eyes widened just a bit bigger at Alfred poking at the needle of it all, "Gwen wanted you to go to college, wanted you to make sure your life outside of the costume mattered too. Bruce even made sure you and her would have no issues getting into Gotham university, and as much as you denied it, it was Gwen who told you to stop with the denial and accept the gift most people would say yes too. And… After her passing, you dropped out. But May made sure you were able to do something beyond the Gazette, persuaded you to try out the now department of horizon labs.. But once she too passed, you gave up on that as well," Alfred took a second to let that sit. The thought of May's passing had a profound effect not only on Peter, but Alfred too. He shut his eyes briefly, sighing, "God rest her kindhearted soul," he opened his eyes, "But you see where I'm going with this Peter?"

"...Yeah… I chose to be there," Peter finished the rest of his tea, putting it aside where Alfred was at too, "..From the beginning and now, I chose to work there. No one told me to work at the Gazette… I did it because I wanted too, no, needed too, just as no one told me to be Spider-Man. I did that too because I needed to, to make up for my mistake with my uncle…" Alfred heard him, let him talk, and nodded along. It was a bit quiet for a minute or so as Peter tried to process all that was being thrown at him in the afternoon, "...I just can't do those things Alfred. Without Gwen or May… What sense of purpose do I want to even do those things?"

"And what about Cassandra? What if she wants you to be the greatest scientist, or the greatest engineer? Or in general, someone great, and someone you can be happy as?" Alfred counter.

Again, Peter shook his head, shrugging off Alfred's comfort hands so he could have his arm crossed and leaning himself back on the couch, "And just like her, you and the world are just forcing me in that direction..."

"No one is forc-"

"Yes you are! You all are!" Peter said, raising his voice, "You're forcing me to do something that I can't do! I wish I could Alfred! But no! I can't! Peter Parker can't have a life when he has to always make sure everyone can live and be happy! It's what it means to be a hero! And it's what it means to me whenever I am Spider-Man! Regardless if there's others like me out there, it's supposed to be just me! Me to bear that great responsibility I've been dealing with for 12 years!" Peter said, letting out the frustration that's been clouding his head for sometime. It caused him to have a regretful look on his face, his hands subconsciously brushing down his face in shame for yelling at the elderly butler, "...Sorry I just… I don't want to be a scientist, engineer, or whatever it is... At one point I wanted to cure cancer, at one point I wanted to be the next Bruce Wayne, or or Ted Kord! But I don't want that anymore… I don't have those particular people in my life to want those things anymore. And…Even if Cassandra wants me to do those things, she only wants me to do the things that make me happy… Those jobs don't make me happy Alfred…They make me think too much about them, all of them. At least the Gazette means I don't have to think too much about them…" Peter admitted.

A sad gaze became apparent on Alfred's expression. As positive as he can be, Peter's own weakness to negativity will always be himself, and it stops him from succeeding in his own life because of it. Alfred moved his seat, now seated near Peter as the younger man kept his gaze on the two tea's near each other, "...At some point Peter, you'll have to live your life. You might be the man who helps keep Gotham safe, but what about the man here?" He gently touched his chest where his heart is at and Peter let it stay, "You have to take care of that."

"...Why does Peter Parker have to matter in the end? If Felicia can just be Black Cat... If my clones can be whoever they want, then why can't I do the same?" Peter genuinely asked, looking up to Alfred.

"You know the answer to that, Peter. You've always had, and you shouldn't keep running around in circles because of it. Plus, those brothers of yours, and the two other Spider women are in more ways inspired by what you do. You'll have to learn also...That you no longer carry that burden on your own. Because you're no longer the only spider person, and you haven't been for years."

"...It's better I keep my distance anyhow...Neither of them aren't fond of me after what I told them at May's funeral, after I blame them for…Not being there for her…" Peter said with shame coming through in his tone.

"Then you'll have to make up for it, somehow, someway," Alfred responded, patting his shoulder.

Peter found himself nodding. Of course he knows the answer to what Alfred hinted. He knows why he has to balance Peter and Spider-Man, even when being Spider-Man seemed to matter more. He has people in his life that need the man behind the mask, people who are not only counting on him for his mind and abilities, but also cheering him on to the best he can with the life he has. And he can't let them down too.

But he knows it's hard, has been hard for years, 'Knowing that 12 years of constant balancing between my two worlds, the battles I've fought, the people I lost, it amounted to nothing when I kept letting people down. So why not focus on just being Spider-Man? Why not go back to that, since I have less and less people who need the man under the mask anyhow. But then, that gets complicated too..Because Cassandra, Barbara, Alfred, Mary Jane, Vicki, heck Jonah, Robbie, much of the people Gazette, to the likes of Harry, Jason, Bruce, Selina, Tim, and Stephanie. All of them…!'

Peter knew he can't be Spider-Man forever when everyone needs Peter Parker just as they need Spider-Man.

Peter saw Cassandra from the angle outside of the living room. She had on his shirt that made it look big on her, and short pants on, but looked very worried at Peter. Peter instantly felt regret at seeing her like that, worrying about him. She must've come down immediately when he heard him shout and he hated that she had to worry about how he is right now, "Hey…"

Alfred looked to see Cassandra coming over. He scooch over to let her sit by, but he didn't expect her to hug them all together, "Oh my..!" Alfred yelped.

The young girl seems like she only grows stronger with age, "Family…Stick together… No matter what…" She mentioned, holding the two people that matter in her life, like her own life depended on it.

"...I didn't mean to worry you," Peter said, guessing she heard either part or all of his and Alfred's talk.

"You always do.." Her basil eyes looked into Peter's own hazel eyes, then soon she kissed his nose, "Always will…Jason text…Should also apologize."

Peter groaned, "Casssss…"

"Peter, it's a time like this where you have to be the bigger man," Alfred didn't care if Peter's eyes narrowed at him, "What? We all know Jason hates apologizing."

Peter took out his phone from his boxer pocket and was the bigger man as Alfred said.

Peter: I'm sorry.

Like earlier, it didn't take long for Jason to text back

Angry bird: Whatever.

"How rude! And here I thought you kids would at the very least change just a bit," Alfred commented as all three saw the response he gave to Peter.

"Hold on! I've changed a lot!" Alfred again gave him a dry look, causing Peter to pout, and Cassandra to giggle, "Oh come on! Let me have a win here."

"No."

The atmosphere changed just a bit in the manor. Now it wasn't just Peter and Cassandra, but Alfred who brought a much needed presence in the manor.

A guardian to the end who always comes back for family.

 

Chapter 7: Live a little

November 4th

"DAMN IT!"

"GIVE ME A SEC HERE. THIS SHIT NEEDS ANOTHER JUICE!"

"WE DON'T GOT A SECOND."

"JUST FOCUS ON NOT GETTING US KILLED."

In the afternoon up North of Gotham, two police cars were trying to nab crooks in their own speeding car. One of the crooks pop out of the windshield, clad in a yellow and bronze suit with gauntlets being charged in a green hue before blasting out a huge vibration energy at both of the police cars' wheels, "BOOYA!"

Because of the man's action, the two police car's cruise left and right, looking to avoid the explosion, and even when they did, it in turn made them lose control of their vehicles.

Going back inside the car, another suited man who was more clad in a black and white suit, with his mask having a slightly huge W to represent the boomerangs on his side, turned to the bronze and yellow criminal with his lip frowning, "Seriously?! Booya?! I should copyright you, you know that right?!"

"No one cares about Cyborg, trust me," he cock back his arms, allowing the blasters to automatically open from the side so he can slide off, where he began tinkering the inside with a torch, "Plus that will distract the web head a bit anyhow."

"You sure?" The boomerang man asked when shifting left and right from bystander vehicle

"Positive," he paused momentarily, "I think."

The police cars tried stopping, but the speed they were going at ended up colliding with one another. The one behind ended up ricocheting to the street. To avoid hitting anyone, the driver swerved right as hard as possible. While he avoided the street, his car took a turn for the worse; it ended up flipping once, and twice.

But not anymore than that. Peter came in the nick of time, quickly pressing buttons on his web shooters the second he came zooming in after bouncing off his web line, and placed a huge web net in front of the car right as it was gonna hit the next block, stopping it from causing any more potential traffic problems or accidents to occur. And with zooming forward, not stopping his momentum, he kept swinging afterwards to go to the next problem. He quickly pinpointed himself like a speeding ball towards a nearby landpole, catching it for a swing and extra speed. He first sent out a web to the back of the police car, pulling it to decrease the speed just a bit, and then allowed himself to be put right in front of the incoming police as it was gonna hit bystanders and buildings.

As people tried to move, or shelter themselves, Peter showcased his years of experience for people not to worry when his presence is here. His bare hand stopped the car before it could hurt, kill, or damage the area around him. Because of the speed it came at, his feet protruded to ground, breaking parts of it, his hands ripped through the car but he was still able to hold onto it with ease. And pulling it a second early helped gage the speed to where the police officer's head wouldn't smash into the air bag. Not even a second, and Peter did his job with ease as held the car in front of him, he made sure to look both ways just in case of any incoming cars, and rest the police car right back in the streets. Once he saw he accomplished his two goals for the day, he made sure to check both police cars; from his perspective he could see not only the car in front of him, but the one webbed up behind that they were fine.

But still, it never hurts to shout too, "HEY! ALL GOOD HERE?!"

"YEAH!"

"THANKS SPIDER-MAN!"

"SHOCKER AND BOOMARANG ARE AT IT AGAIN!"

"GOT YA! ANY TIME OFFICERS!" He again shouted back. He also turned to the people that were filming, and even kids alike being startled at his sudden heroic appearance, "Enjoy the rest of your day folks!" He saluted them and he went back to swinging to find boomerang and shocker

"Spider-Man. Boomerang and shocker are passing through Otisburg as we speak," Alfred said through the communication line.

"Then I'll..!" Peter cuts corners, thrust himself high in the air so when he comes diving down the street, his next few swings will catapult him forward with the necessary speed to catch them, "Cut through Newtown!"

A web line here, a web line there, each building supporting the weight of his swing as he flew across the smaller rooftops, and or passing through constructing obstacles with his agility and quickness. Nothing stops him till he gets eyes on the car he was after, "They really think they can try to escape me? This is my old block! I still know the nooks and cranny of Otisburg like I was still in my jockeys!"

Boomerang mouth went agape when seeing the Spider come into view, very fast, "SHIT! I THOUGHT YOU SAID THAT WOULD BUY US TIME?!"

Shocker couldn't help but groan, with his mask making it sound like an echo growl. He snapped his gauntlet on, readying for a fight, "And this is why I don't plan!"

Peter landed on the hood of the car, "Hello boys! You know the drill!" Peter would flip to the rear of the boomerang side, avoiding the shocker's blast, "License and registration please! Unless you're both under 16 then this would be reallllllly illegal."

"Damn it! Can you just look the other way for once Spidey?!" Boomerang asked, looking into his direction for a moment.

Peter shook his head, "Not on your best days boomerang! And not even on my worst days!"

"DUCK!"

"Goose?!" Peter felt his skull ringing, and he knew he could've dodge, it would've been so easy. But he's aware of the bystanders in the streets, he's aware of the buildings and stores that the shocker's gauntlet could cause damage, or get someone killed. And it didn't help that he was taking his time with this then he should.

And its cause he won't lie on the fact that he misses handling these crooks.

Peter ended up taking Shocker's two gauntlet blast, sending him through a truck, "Agh!" Breathing heavily, his vested suit took the damage with ease, but the shot itself wasn't something Peter can just simply joke about. Recovering quickly thanks to impacting through the truck, he backflips himself, throwing out to webbing to better stop his momentum, and was able to cling to the café glass window, "SORRY IF MY SUIT CAUSES A MESS ON THE WINDOW!" Peter apologetically said to the café owner's before leaping off it to go back to pursuing the low tier super villains.

"WE NEED TO GET THE FUCK OUT OF THE VEICHLE HERMAN!" Boomerang shouted with clear frustration.

"And where exactly?" He looked at the mirror in front to see if the spider would come swinging. With both mirror's, he didn't catch web slinger coming into view just yet, but he was still prepared for him, "Remember, you said you needed money fast, and I told you this wouldn't be an easy job," Shocker said nonchalantly.

"...FUCK!"

Suddenly, both heard someone landing on top of the roof. Shocker was almost baffled, knowing that the blast should've put some distance away from him. Suddenly the glass mirror by Boomerang side was broken open by a stick. Boomerang was soon grabbed and tossed outside, "AHHHH!" his body landed on a parked car.

"Shit!" Shocker quickly grabbed onto the wheels, moving left and right to avoid the cars in front of him. Till he turned, and then suddenly saw a police barricade, then leading to the wheels being popped, stopping the car from moving any faster, and causing it to swerve into a donut.

With the car stopped, and almost nowhere to run, Shocker again groaned and let himself relax in the passenger seat, "..So much for parole."

Before Peter reached the shocker location, he had to make sure if Boomerang was ok as noticed him getting tossed just when he was gaining close to them. He was unconscious, to say the least, and on top of a vehicle, "MY CAR!" A bystander screamed upon seeing his car. Then ended up catching Peter standing there, his expression changing from shock to glare, "OF COURSE! IT'S ALWAYS YOU ISN'T IT?!"

Peter held up his hands, "I swear it wasn't me," he then would got to his back pocket, wanting to at least help him out with something, "Look mayb-"

"I DON'T NEED YOUR FREAKING MONEY! I'M GONNA SUE! FOR EVERYTHING YOU'VE GOT!"

If his lens could, it would shift down to express his dumbfoundedness, 'That would mean the money I would give you would be yours… To which I was willingly going to do.'

Peter couldn't worry about that, since the guy wanted to act up like that he left the scene by jumping in the air and swinging to find the vehicle, "Hey Al, Cass is still in the cave right?"

"Yes, I can still hear her grunts with how much kicks she's throwing today. Seems that the police were able to stop Herman with someone else's help.. And you'll be surprised to see who it is."

"Huh..Weird."

He soon found Shocker being apprehended by a police officer, but upon landing, he didn't expect to find a person sitting on the vehicle, casually waiting for him, and casually waving at him. Peter was stars truck to see this person who got off the vehicle with a graceful corkscrew spin. He wore a blue domino mask that had white lenses to hide his blue eyes, black hair taken care, comb with the uttermost care and flawlessness, his suit being black and blue, with the blue part connected in tangent from his arms, shoulder to his chest that formed an eagle of sorts.

And he smiled, as the sun lit brightly behind him when walking to Peter, "Love the new duds! Is that what's making you a little slow today?"

Behind his mask, Peter had his mouth open, not sure what to say or do, and simply stared at the man in front of him. The man he hadn't seen in person for what felt like years but really was only a year ago, "..H-how are you even... You're...Walking?" Peter pointed out, a lost words at seeing how well balanced this individual was as of right now.

"Well you know, therapy, new Tameran's technology, and the best girlfriend I can ever ask to help the recovery. Thought I would surprise you bo-" not a second later, Peter bare hugged the man in front of him who was of similar height as he was. He both was expecting and not expecting this type of a powerful hug but all the more embrace it "Whoa! Lay off the super strength there, and…People are watching, Peter."

So they were, and Peter didn't care. At the moment, he was glad that this person was back compared to when he last saw him.

---

A year ago

Peter watches as the man he aspired to be, the man who taught him so much to be who he is now, the man that was the big brother that kept watch over him, the man that had his similar taste in both comedy and being true to oneself, and the man that meant so much to him. Peter watches as this man stares out the window from the manor in a wheelchair, trying to move his hands just a bit but can't. He can see the disappointment, the slight scowl he's trying to form but couldn't, the way he tries to keep his hand steady on the chair, but often falls by his side, the legs that keep shaking here and there, and the known sigh he's been doing for sometime.

Peter can see how broken this man was without overly showing it. And it made Peter's own world crumble at seeing this person the way he is right now.

Peter would then hear someone walking to the close door and opening it. Peering behind him, he saw a tall woman, skin golden ochre, eyes pure green that doesn't showcase how beautiful it was with how sorrowful she looked as of now, and her long, curled hair reaching just about to the middle of her spine. She couldn't help but hold herself in her own arm as she too watches the broken man in the wheelchair, "...I'm gonna take Dick away from here. I just got word from my sister that she'll help try to..Help him."

Peter looked at her, nodding, understanding they did as much as what they could do here on earth. But it left him feeling disappointed that he couldn't do more, that he wanted to try to do more if he could, but, technology here on earth wasn't as advanced to where this woman hailed from, "It's for the best, I know. Doctors did all they can, we did all we can…" Peter's head and eyes shifted downwards, can't have the stomach to look at her or face the reality of what has happened to Dick, "Us humans still have limits on where our technology can heal, repair…Let's hope new Tamaran can help him."

The worst part of it all, is that everyone in the Bat family suffered just like Dick, in their own physical or mental way.

"Peter…" her hands touched his shoulder, "This is not your fault."

"So I hear from everyone. But it is Koriand'r!" her hand recoiled from the black long sleeve shirt he had on. It almost felt like it pushed her away, that it had a mind of its own, but was applied to the anger she can hear from Peter's tone, "The justice league had so many other heroes that could've helped in war world, but I decided to help when I should've been here! Then again! I shouldn't have made myself a full fledged leaguer anyhow! I should've...Should've," Peter sighed, taking a deep breath in and out, but all the more stopping what he had to say.

He knows Koriand'r gets where he's coming from, there wasn't a point to keep venting, "..I've been meaning to ask.. What is that you're wearing? It's not normal, normal shirts don't push people's hands away."

Peter didn't exactly want to answer her, it wasn't important, but then she knew she would keep asking till she got an answer in the end, "...A suit I picked up from war world that replaced my old suit. It's nothing to worry about Kori."

She tilted her head, feeling her worry for her friend rising just from that statement, "The way it repulses from my touch… Almost like it had a mind of its own," Koriand'r went to do the same action as before, but this time, lit her hands up just a bit.

And she got a reaction, the shirt let out a tendril, pushing Koriand'r back from Peter, "The hell you're doing Kori?!"

Koriand'r took the push well, not phase, but her eyes widened, worried for Peter as she figured out what he had on him, "Peter, that's a living being, a Klyntar!"

Peter eyebrow raised, "A what?"

"A symbiote or.. Parasite of that matter. It bonds to an individual that gives them great strength, speed, agility, but also relies on the individual to live as it can't live without a host. My people knew of them, even knew of their creator," she looked away briefly, "..They were all supposed to be eradicated because Knull, the creator, wished to bring about chaos with his army. They were long since forgotten from what I was told… But seeing as this one is alive.. Peter, don't treat that as an ally," she turned back to her friend with a serious gaze, "Get rid of it."

Peter sucked his teeth, knowing to trust Kori words but also… Finding it hard to believe that this symbiote wanted to hurt him, or use him to their own devices. It had been helping him, hell, it helped him with the justice league when on warworld. So why would it want to do anything bad? It should've done it before shouldn't it? Yet it didn't, it's been helping him cope with the stress of learning all that he missed in Gotham. But then again, it's a living thing, an alien, he's wearing an alien suit of all things, and if it really wanted to, it could do some devious things without him knowing.

And it could have already. Yet somehow, Peter didn't let that paranoia get to him, and he had to believe it was helping because it is. He personally feels without this symbiote, he couldn't cope with all that's going on right now. Peter would let out a sigh, ruffling his own short hair that's been growing and growing as time went on, "I'll be on guard Kori."

"No!" Koriand'r took a few steps to get back to Peter. Her height dwarfing him as they're face to face, "You need to get rid of it before it permanently bonds to you."

Peter started scowling, "Stop worrying about me Koriand'r! I'm fine ok?! I'll handle it like I'll handle everything here! So back off, please!" Peter's voice raised high, clear with anger and stress that became more apparent.

And Koriand'r wanted to push the matter at hand, but she didn't, her eyes softened and felt sorry that she was even arguing with Peter to begin with. He's going through so much in terms of holding the people close to him together, and she knows she has an idea that he feels his best isn't enough. Therefore, She wanted to apologize and say that she trusted Peter's judgment. Funny enough, Peter wanted to do the same as he always hated when he let his emotions get the best of him. Right now he shouldn't be doing that, shouldn't be giving into anger, this wasn't time for that.

But lately, he's been feeling angry; at himself, this city, the world, people. He feels he's angry at everything nowadays and he can't let go. It's almost like he wanted to explode, explode all this rage he's feeling on something, perhaps someone. And with that train of thought, it shocked Peter for that split second as he knew that no matter how he was in the past, the villains that had a play into bringing great deal of fury, he never had a moment where he wanted violence.

Utter rage, extreme violence on those who needs it the most.

Before he could dive deeper into this train of thought, Dick started shaking, moving left and right, back and forth, "AHHHHHHH! FICCKKK! GAH!" He screamed, or at least tried to, but the difficulty was hard with the state he was in.

Peter and Koriand'r ran to him, stopping him from shaking back and forth in the wheelchair. Koriand'r held him in place and Peter knelt to his level, holding his legs, "I got you Dick," the Klyntar that was bonded to Peter grabbed a needle with a syringe in it.

Peter saw the tears strolling from his eyes just before he injected the needle into his vein, "NOT...FAIGR!...NOT FAUGR!" The complete despair, the need, the want, to not only to be not broken, but to not be what he is now, Peter saw it and it only further put him into total sarrowness cause he knows he couldn't do a damn thing to help his friend, "NO NO NO NO….no no no…" Dick eyes slowly dropped, eyes tightened, squinting to stay awake, eventually, he gave up and fell into slumber.

All Koriand'r could do was hold him in her arms, kissing the top of his head, letting tears drop from her cheek at the prospect of seeing the human she loves like this, "... If only we were here… Why did this have to happen..? Of all times when we were busy off-world.."

"Why else..? Because he was the first Robin…" Peter answered before standing up and throwing the syringe away, "Joker wanted to do worse than he did to Jason… And he did, gave him a stroke bad enough for him to not be what he loves to be."

Koriand'r felt her throat tighten, just hearing the explanation of why her lover was put into this position only made the pit of her stomach twist. Of course, there was also anger that she herself couldn't do anything due to her having priorities elsewhere. But unlike Peter, she can't let her anger rule her, there wasn't a reason too, and her love for the man she holds should outweigh her negative emotion. Because that's what her race represent, the Tamaranean's representing to be open, full of life, and in touch with their emotions, but not let it corrupt them.

Peter wouldn't be much of use to them, only serving to hurt them both with just being in the room. Letting Koriand'r have her time with him, he made himself scarce, walking through the bleak hallways that only held silence. Besides those two and Peter, there was only Cassandra in the Wayne manor while any other people who were once here, were no longer here.

Peter couldn't stop Jason from running away.

Peter didn't stop Tim and Stephanie from moving away.

Peter felt hurt when Alfred left a note of him leaving.

Peter felt devastated by Barbara needing to remove herself from everyone for a bit.

Peter hated what happened to Lucius and his son.

Peter hated how Bruce is nowhere to be found after he was able to break through the cave, to find he disappeared all together.

Peter felt uncomfortable that Selina is likely hiding his whereabouts.

Most of all, Peter feels disgusted by what happened to Cassandra, and for the time being, hasn't moved from her room.

It made him feel weak, so weak. And the worst part, he again can't create a solution to all the problems everyone and himself is dealing with.

And he despises the feeling of not being able to help everyone, to be in the dark without a solution. With all this bottle up feeling, it only took him a second of walking where he suddenly then thrust his fist through a nearby wall, "FUCK!" Huffing and puffing out of anger, he quickly let it go when he saw Cassandra behind that wall. She jumped from the sound, clutching on to her cover, stared with fear upon seeing Peter's pure rage on display. And Peter couldn't help but feel more regret when he saw her look at him.

The shock.

The Sadness.

The worry.

And again, fear fear.

Doing this, single action, gutted Peter. And what hurt more was seeing how much her body was bandage, how it made her look frail, and how she tried to almost hide the things that she went through

He hated it… But what could he do? What else could he do to fix a hole that Joker caused?

And he couldn't close it, he couldn't close what he did to everyone. The only thing he can do is keep the city safe without a Batman at the moment.

'No matter the cost, we have to keep this city, and everyone safe,' Peter thought, not only to himself, but to his symbiote partner.

---

Present

Peter and Dick sat alongside a rooftop in Otisburg. Normally, eating is something Peter would devour like his girlfriend due to needing the excess fuel to keep moving and such. Yet right now, he's too busy focusing on watching his friend eating a bat-like burger in hand, 'How did he recover..? And so fast in such a short time..? I mean year is no joke, but a year from recovering from a hemorrhagic stroke? It's...Amazing..! But also, unbelievable. I know he was able to move from the updates Koriand'r and himself gave out to Cass and I...But...I wanna think this is god giving me a break, yet I can't help but think otherwise.'

While Peter was too busy creating the many hypotheses to better explain how Dick is able to do all that he just did, Dick himself was too busy taking in the pleasure of simple junk food, "Mmmm.. I never understood how they can merchandise off of Bruce, and somehow make a bat burger good. And hey! It's so good to eat earth food once again! Even if it's junk," Dick then notices Peter's stargaze. His mask was half off and he can see him eating, but eating rather slowly then usually. Nonetheless, Dick gave him a warm smile before shaking him by his shoulder, "You in there bud? Look a little lost right now. Is it because I might have some crumbs on my lip?" He both jested, and gesture his comment

"No…No..!" He shook his head before taking an extra bite out of his burger, "Your...You're just..Alive, you know? Jumping, dealing with car chases, and handling my run of the mill bag guys…" Peter then looked at his own burger in his hands, having web parts designated for him unlike Dick's own bat burger, "...How? I mean you had a stroke that essentially would make it harder to live knowing your body wouldn't be at 100 percent capacity in terms of fighting crime. Did Koriand'r or her sister design something new in the city? Maybe put some tech in your head to heal faster?"

"Peter," Dick put his hands up, "Stop with the gazillion and one questions. Would you just believe it was Kori, Komand'r, and my own luck that got me back into my own shape?" Dick queried with an added jester in his tone, "They're own unique tech and therapy simply is that advance, and it all took was time and patience is all," he said, while flexing his muscle.

"Dick, you and I both know that no matter how advanced any alien techs are, there's always a consequence, glitch in the codes, where tangling with any brain can lead to unknown threats," Peter explained, "Plus, New Tameran is still rather new, and its tech still needs growing. Right now I'm still in disbelief of just you being here that I wanna question if it's even you at all."

"Dude," one word and Peter can tell Dick was getting annoyed, "It's me, the guy that tangoed with Trigon and live tell about it, the guy that held everything together when Bruce got his back broken by Bane, the guy who's the last remaining flying Grayson. It's me."

"I...I know...bu-"

"You can't be glad that I'm honest to god great now? Enough to come back to earth, come here to this city where I can at least help where I can?" Dick eyebrow raised when he questioned, "I get that you're suspicious, but can you leave that paranoia for Bruce and Barbara? And just be glad that I'm better than how I was compared to last year?!" Dick said, slightly shouting out of his irritation.

Peter didn't mean to get on his case, in fact, part of him was surprised with the way Dick reacted to his curiosity, 'He's...Annoyed? Annoyed by my own curiosity?' Peter asked himself, baffled at the change in character of not only seeing, but hearing how Dick is reacting, 'In all my years of knowing Dick, even when I yap about how magic and science can never correlate to one another, Dick never gets this annoyed of me, even when I'm suspicious of something that he's doing. Very few times he ever did get annoyed, and that was when I was just a kid having the right mindset of doing what's right, but always acting before thinking.'

Peter let out a sigh, the awkward silence came through and Peter did not like it at all. He started to feel bad for just even pulling out these questions left and right, 'He's right. I should be happy he can be Nightwing once more, and help out in Gotham. Hell, this is a once in a lifetime thing that doesn't just come by often. Why try to find an answer when he's fine, great actually!' Peter would take a bite out of his burger before letting go of his paranoia.

Just this once for his older, adoptive sibling, "Sorry… I didn't mean to cause any distress to you Dick."

"Hey, it's fine," Dick voice became calm, gentle like earlier, "I shouldn't have yelled at you like that, or compared you to Bruce for that matter," Dick said, "It's not me to say something like that.. Jason though..."

Peter let out a small snort, "Still does, and he still has a huge drinking problem."

"Yet he hasn't gone gung ho on people has he? Taking out groups of organizations and such?"

"Not that I know of, and he certainly wouldn't tell me."

"Well...We'll cross that bridge when we can. But it's better left unsaid I guess," Dick said with a shrug.

"At the expense of destroying his own liver? I rather he shot someone for jaywalking than kill himself," Peter said. He noticed Dick eyebrow shrewd from the small dark humor, "Too dark?"

Dick gestured to the usage of his finger and thumb, "A bit, you sure you're not wearing that black and white suit of yours under that new suit?"

"How do you remember I had that?" Peter wondered, "I didn't think you would remember much of my more moody days of those few months last year."

"I uh, remember a few things here and there," Dick mentioned when finishing his burger, "Kori would talk to me in my sleep, often worrying about you and the rest of the gang a lot. Then when I was able to start forming my memories again, along with speaking, talking, and reading, I did my research on what I missed out," Dick suddenly found himself frowning, "...Missed quite a lot."

"Yeah… It was for the best. You couldn't do much if you came back to Gotham. If Bruce wouldn't hear the pleas from almost everyone else, then he wouldn't likely hear it from you," Peter remarked.

"...Doesn't really help knowing the fact he dismantled the justice league, let alone Supes himself...Is he..Still sick?" Dick asked.

Peter nodded, "But he still looks strong to the public."

"And there's nothing we can do?" Peter shook his head, "Wait...It's his choice isn't it?" Peter nodded again, "...Fuck Bruce..."

"I doubt he would mention it, but I know he's still ashamed of how he used his plans against the justice league when they tried to take him down, and he feels more ashamed of what he did to Clark," Peter shrugs when finishing his own meal, "Nothing we can really do. The justice league is still strong, and Clark is still super, for however long he has."

"...Guess we have to thank Cassandra huh?"

"Yep...She was the only one to stand up to Bruce. I couldn't do it because I had to resolve with the black suit at the time, and...Dealing with the repercussions of it," Peter said, finding himself scratching his shoulder, "Either way. Let's move on to something more light. How are you and Kori by the way?"

Dick lips form into a small grin, replacing the frown he was having with how dark their conversation went briefly, "Great!" just a bit more, "Amazing," and a bit more, "SPECTACULAR EVEN!"

If Peter eyes lens could, which he hadn't made them so, it would've narrowed at the usage of those acronyms, "You know those are mine right? Like the amazing and spectacular is something I use on a regular basis?"

"You never copyright them," Peter scoffed as he went to drink his soda. Dick would then take something out from his utility belt, a small black box where it had a ring shape with what seemed like a diamond on top of it, "I think I'm finally ready to have the gall to ask her the most important question in my life Peter."

When Peter turned to see what Dick meant by that, he didn't think it would really be the most important question, "Oh..My GOD! YOU'RE ACTUALLY GONNA DO IT?!" Peter gleefully shouted.

Dick chuckled at Peter's reaction like how he expected he would, "About time. And this time I want to make sure it's right," Dick said, finding his hand rubbing the back of his neck, "We've always been off and on, but she's always been my rock when I needed her. And I do need her," Dick spoke with honesty, his eyes staring at the ring that means the world to him, "Especially when she asked me not too long ago if I really love her, in a way that's forever without any excuses for us to break up briefly, before getting back together again."

"Wow… Just… Wow."

"I know," Dick would close the box and put back in his utility belt, "You think being 32 you have love all figured out. But that isn't the case, and now I have to figure out how to approach her with this."

"Oh come on dude! Just get on one knee and pop the question," Peter implored, "Kori doesn't care about it being special because she knows this is something you really wanna do."

"But it's so lameeeee," Dick wined, "I want it to be special. I mean you're basically telling me you would do something that basic for Cass?" Dick redirected with a question.

"Well…" Peter didn't have a clear answer to that, eyes directing more to the street under him than Dick. Marriage was not something he could think about or even think about at all. It was not like he didn't wanna get married to Cassandra but it was all about timing and when he can do it. And if he's honest, the timing right now isn't good with how their headspace is. While Peter believes she would automatically say yes, he feels Cassandra would do it without thinking what it meant for the two of them, the next step in their relationship. Then again, he himself isn't sure if he's even capable of being a good husband with how upside down his life is, 'How can I be a good husband when my life outside of Spider-Man isn't quite taken care of properly? I wanna be a husband who has his stuff sorted out first then...It not being,' Peter silently groan in his own big head, 'Ugh...I'm running away from this because I really am not ready for that...However there was one person I did wanted to ask,' then his head got him thinking about a certain blond women that tragically was no longer in his life, 'Would Gwen have said yes?'

Peter had to stop himself from touching that territory, it seems she's been coming back in the forefront of his mind as of late. He then noticed Dick's tilt head, giving him a curious gaze, "Bro… Really?"

"Look if I were to say, one day, ask Cass to marry me then it would be simple," Peter said without hesitation even if his mind said otherwise, "She doesn't care about how good, big, or who will see it. She only cares if it's something I really wanna do."

"And you don't, do you?"

"I'm that obvious?"

"Heh, nooo not really. Your mask makes it hard to notice, but when you go a little quiet, gaze at something then the other person, you're in deep thought. And you seem like you aren't quite comfortable with that topic too," Dick observed.

"So I'm obvious then."

"See I'm trying not to put you down sooo."

"Its oooookk. Cass takes up that job to not allow me to think too much anyways."

They share a chuckle at their light hearted conversation about their beautiful partners, "How's she doing? Still living in the cave?"

Peter nodded as his knees pointed up for his arms to rest on top of it, "And by vice versa, same as me. I try to make sure she goes outside instead of always sticking to the manor or clock tower."

"How often is that?" He asked when taking a drink of his own soda.

"Ermmm…" He heard Dick giving a soft sigh when he ducked his head, "Look I don't wanna push her into things she doesn't want to do yet. I'm still giving her time and space whenever she wants to do the stuff we used to do."

"Gotta try Peter, even if she says no, a little push does always help. Cause sometimes, it takes a partner to help allow that other person to take a necessary step further," Dick said.

"I know… That subject hasn't always been so easy for me to touch though," Peter admitted when looking at Dick, "I don't know how to do it without her saying no and that she has to always train for Gotham. The crazy part is that she just rather be Batwomen, she feels there's no room for a normal life anymore, and I'm in the same boat which makes it even more ironic how she wants me to have a stable, normal life once more. Yet I rather be this," Peter touched the center of his chest where the spider symbol rested on, "I can do more good as this then just being the man outside of this."

"Heh, too peas in a pine," Dick muttered, also snickered at the irony, "As I said, little pushes. When was the last time you took her out on a date?"

"...Few months ago, almost a year ago."

Dick looked at him, his eyebrow shifting up indicating how wide eyes he became at that response, "Dude..!

"We've been busy!"

"Not until a couple weeks ago!"

"Ok well…" Peter again looked away, again finding himself not able to argue back. He feels like he's a terrible boyfriend of not doing enough to make sure he gives the love Cassandra deserves. He wants to respect her wishes, but at the same time he wants to do more than just having small dates in the manor, clocktower, or being a duo together at night and very rarely, in the day as well.

Dick, ever the observer, moves a little closer to sling his arms around his neck, "Hey, girls are tricky territory to crack at. And Cassandra is no different."

Peter looked at him, and the way his body language was orchestrated, he gave a deadpan look to his friend, "She kinda is."

"Ok yeah, she grew up differently than most girls. But the core of her isn't and you two have to live a little beyond all this," he gestures at the costume Peter wears, "You of all people know of this, and don't give me the you know you know thing you like to do."

"Hey-"

"Gotham is safer because of you two, and yeah there is another psycho on the loose, but look at all this," Peter looks to the borough of North Gotham they reside in, one that had people going about their day below them, no ounce of drama, amount of homeless people in the streets, or even garbage lying around, "Otisburg is way better than what it use to be."

"..You got that right. Never thought my old neighborhood would get like this. Yet, can't say there isn't exactly a full pro to it, even crime alley still has problems," Peter said with Vicki words still being on his mind about the changes yet no changes in Gotham.

"And we can't live without it. The pros and cons are always gonna be there," Dick said.

"Meaning we just got to live with them, yeah i-" Peter stopped himself, "Huh… I really do say that a lot," he said with a snort.

"See? You're getting it," Dick patted his shoulders from across, "Also again, it never hurts to ask. The worst she can do is to say no and break up with you," Peter looked at Dick, finding it odd that he would say something like that, "What? She wouldn't do that though."

He was right though, it was very stupid for Cassandra to do something like that. And because of the absurdity, he did find himself laughing with Dick going along with it. Peter really did miss these talks, miss his older sibling being around and making sure he got his head on straight. Hell, he's glad that he and Alfred are back in his life and hopes it stays that way, "I don't mean to spoil your reunion," the ever so English accent from Alfred came through their comms, "But someone stole a motorcycle near your vicinity."

Peter groaned as he pulled down his mask, "Now who would do that on the brink of the afternoon?!"

"It is still Gotham at heart," Dick pushed himself off the low level building, before summing the usage of jet pack allowing him to fly, "Hey take care of our scraps would ya!"

"WHAT?! I'M NOT A GARBAGE MAN!"

Yet Peter took care of it, like a garbage man.

---

Cassandra felt herself sweating from head to toe, keeping focus on the bar she balanced her body on. Her hands grip the bar tightly, enough to where her own veins were noticeable, her arms, shoulder, core were tightened to hold on to the balance. Yet even so, she didn't look strained at all, just focused, nothing more and nothing less. Even when focusing she had her headphones on, not for the purpose of music, but someone wanted to have a conversation with her, "And the nerve of them! It's like what's the point of me doing my job when some people want to complain about the service I provide."

"Mhm."

"I make sure to push everyone I train; do this amount of push ups, do this amount of sit ups, run this long, punch this way, kick that way! What's the point of signing up for a training program under my tutelage when you don't wanna push yourself?!" The person that was a woman on the phone ranted in frustration.

"Mhm," Cassandra didn't seem to mind this distraction, to have someone talk about her day to her as she kept herself focused on her training. She would then split her leg apart, horizontally straight, then push her forearms so she could fully handstand on the bar, and she would let her body descend into a full swing, going through a series of circle motions.

"I'm only hard on everyone I teach because that's the only way anyone can see improvements, it's what Bruce always taught us, endure and push forward."

"Osu," Cassandra then stops her motion at the tip top, piking up as she then turns the other way and swings in reverse.

"Exactly! But enough about me, I hate that I always find myself talking about me more than you Cass!"

Cassandra would use her motion of swing to launch in the air, tucking and flipping backwards, before catching not only the bar, but also her headphones that slipped out of the top of her head. She would again stop, piking up with one hand as she slipped her headphones back on, and she then slowly brought herself down, before slowly pulling herself up all the way and kept this repeated routine when talking to her friend, a full on muscle up, "Don't mind Stephanie."

"I do though. Saw on the news what happened a few days ago in Gotham, and that there's been a spree of people dying over there. Why haven't you told me?"

Cassandra found herself sighing, knowing this particular topic was gonna come up eventually. Once going back to the tip top, hand standing on the bar, she springs her arms with enough strength that allows her own body to go in the air briefly, so she could then bend her body where the inner part of her lower legs caught the bar. She would then sit up, adjusting herself where she was now sitting on top of the bar, and hold on to her headphones so it wouldn't fall again, "Been busy."

"Heard it the first time, but I understand. Just don't keep me out of the loop cause then I'll have to go to Barbara. And she'll definitely tell me! I'll make her squeal it out of her!" Cassandra giggled. If there's one thing she can say when talking to Stephanie is that she's a very stubborn kind of person when it comes to the people she cares about. Try to push her away and she'll keep running forward to do something good for her friends and family, "Also, I need to know, you and Peter?"

"Yes?"

"Using protection right?"

Cassandra felt her cheeks tint, "STEPH!" Even more hilarious was Alfred coming back into the cave just in time to not only see her reaction, but also hear her shout.

Because her raven hair was tied into a ponytail, her embarrassment was clear as day for Alfred to see, "Stop teasing her, Stephanie."

"IS THAT ALFRED?! TELL HIM I SAY HI! AND I MISS HIM DEARLY."

"No."

"What?! Why because I'm asking the important questions?! I'm just making sure my best friend doesn't end up like me! Plus, the first time you bang each other was without any protection, remember?!"

She pouted even when embarrassed, "Wasn't our fault!"

"Yes! Because you can't hold your liquor! Still! Looking out for my best girlfriend!"

She sighed and shook her head. However annoying her friend Stephanie can be, she won't admit outwardly about this idea appeasing her mind, allowing her to smile at the brief thought, 'A child…With Peter…' It wasn't bad, she can picture it all relatively easily.

He being over protective.

She having trouble with how to hold a baby.

He sleeping with them in their arms.

She making sure they get the food in their stomach.

He always being there for them no matter what.

And she loving their every existence.

But sadly, she's not sure she can have it with her circumstance, frowning at an easy reason why she can't have that right now, 'Gotham's protection first.'

"Hellllllllo! Are you even listening?"

"Yes."

"Then what I said?"

"Tim, he's finishing up…With college."

"Oh…Well yeah he is! Did I ever tell you how happy it is to see him do all this? How proud it makes me to see him genuinely succeeding? He…Really deserves it, you know?"

"Yeah..He does. How.. is he?"

"...Physically or mentally?" Stephanie asked, with the tone of uncertainty being clear.

"Both."

Stephanie gave a little sigh through Cassandra's headphones, "...Physically, he's doing fine. Even without one eye, one arm, and one leg, he's able to still do a lot of the things he used to do thanks to Peter's help. Mentally though..? He still has nightmares of what Joker did to him, still doesn't want to talk about it even when I know, sometimes he gets lost in deep thoughts, sometimes I feel he isn't there…Sometimes I think, can he even look at me? Can anyone look at me anyhow? I can try using make up or using some clothing, but people can see the scarring's, and it...Disturbs them...While it still makes me sick..."

"I can...Still see you," Cassandra said, knowing through her voice she was becoming insecure of her own ordeal she's been dealing with since last year, "No matter what… You're still you."

"Yeah… I know… But not everyone likes staring at a partial two face look alike."

Cassandra found herself sadden at how Stephanie looked down on herself, how negative she is on herself just like how Tim is. She wishes she can do something, anything that can make her simply change her mind on her appearance. But how can she? Compared to her, Cassandra at least can hide her more imposing scars on her body from the years of fighting and especially to what Joker did on her back.

Tim and Stephanie can't hide what Joker did to them, and public perception would always be there to bother the two of them. There was no avoiding it, and it only hurts Cassandra more that she can't figure out how to help in that category, making her feel useless in the sense, "Oh shit! It's almost 3! I gotta go pick up Tim! He's sooo gonna kill me! We'll talk soon Cass!"

"Ok by-" Stephanie cut off before Cassandra could properly say bye. Rushing or not, Cassandra thinks Stephanie wanted to end the conversation. It was like bringing up the past cause Stephanie wanted to exit it from the conversation.

Cassandra let herself scoff, 'Shouldn't hav...Kept talking about it...' She lightly hit herself on the head, 'STUPID!'

Alfred, who so happen walked near where Cassandra was still hanging on the bar, took notice of her small scowl and the slap she did to herself, "I presume your conversation with Ms. Brown didn't go the way as planned?" Alfred asks, having both water in hand, a towel in one arm and his warm tea for himself. Cassandra looks at him, both nodding and letting her scowl go. She fell back, hands catching the bar so she could flip off the bar. She landed with ease in front of Alfred, "Smashing as always,"

Cassandra felt herself smirking and bows before taking the water bottle and towel from him, "Thanks. And.." she drinks it, sliding her headphones down to her neck before continuing drinking it, "..Not it didn't...They're Doing well, and not..."

"Which means you yourself don't know what to do, how to make either of them feel better," Cassandra would again nodded, "As much as I wish I have all the answers that will help, these are one of those times where I'm not as useful as I want to be. Everyone deals with trauma differently, and even when you feel it's your responsibility to help them with it, sometimes it often best to let them sort it out," he then took a sip of his tea, "..Just keep doing what you always do, be loyal to the people in your circle, and they'll come to you if need be."

Again she nodded, letting her back lean on the walls the cave had as she used the towel to wipe some sweat off her, "Don't want them to suffer," she looked away from Alfred when mentioning her feelings on the subject at hand, "They're not here. Shouldn't have to… Suffer anymore...I'm the Bat, not him.."

"In an easier world, that should be the case right? But for people like us? It won't ever be as simple as we want them to be," Alfred said, "And being the only Bat doesn't stop people from going through suffering. Therefore-"

"Endure and push forward."

"Exactly so."

"...Why…Is that hard?"

Alfred shrugged his shoulders, "Maybe because that's our job, the hardest job as a human bean to get done. And whether we like it or not, alone or not, we have to go through it to see what we can do to make things get better rather than have it stay in the same position we are in," Cassandra hummed, agreeing to his speech before she drank her water again. Yet something made Alfred eyebrow raised, a curious thought crossed his mind, "When was the last time you practiced your ballet?"

"Err…" Cassandra found herself scratching her cheeks, a slight embarrassment spread amongst her cheeks as she was surprised by the question being asked. Let alone from him and not her boyfriend, "A while."

"Meaning a long time?" Cassandra's head dipped when she put the towel on her shoulder, still avoiding eye contact before looking at Alfred with more apparent bashfulness, "More than a year then."

"Just a year. Need to be… The Bat. Gotham needs that," Cassandra said, brushing the strands away from her eyelids as it bothers her sight. She wasn't ashamed that she will always use that statement for the reason why she gives up certain aspects of her life.

Alfred let out a soft sigh, "You are not Master Wayne, Miss Cain, just remember that," he made sure to fix the front of her hair, knowing she doesn't like the strands brushing against her eyelids, "As much as the body and mind needs sharpening, so does the spirit."

"YAHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" The butler and the Bat saw Peter swing through the river side entrance of the Batcave, with none other than Dick towing his back, "WOOOO!"

"Ok ok ok," landing in the center of the Batcave, Dick unshackles himself behind Peter's back, "You had your adrenaline rush for the day, but thank you for picking Spidey airline. We don't accept cash, but just the gracious smile of our passengers," Peter quipped when taking off his mask.

Cassandra's mood was lifted seeing the slightly annoyed but also elated expression on Peter's face, and the bombasticness of seeing Dick walking, hoping, and smiling brightly, "And was a job well done I may add! It's always a hell of a time when I get a free swing on the Spidey fair."

"Everybody gets one," he pointed with one finger, "One."

"That is a bold fa-"

"DICK!" Cassandra immediately jumped on Dick's back, bear hugging from behind.

"Holy!" He made sure to keep his balance at the sudden force from Cassandra's bear hug. He turned his neck to see her, "That can't be the young Cass I know! I remember she had way more shorter hair!"

She giggled, hopping off her so she could give Dick a proper hug, "Miss you soooooo much!"

"Probably miss you more," he said when hugging her back.

"No."

"Yes."

"No!"

"Oh yeah!"

"Nope!"

"You're not winning this Dick," Peter commented.

"I WIN!"

Dick pouted at Peter, "No fair! You let me lose."

"Well this cave has gotten lively," Alfred made sure to make his presence known, giving a slight shock of not seeing him as he was focused on Cassandra, "Makes me feel a little bit nostalgic." Cassandra let go of Dick so he can give the meanest hug to Alfred, both just like Peter and unlike Peter, he did so but lifting Alfred in the air, "Dear lord have mercy… You three are gonna put me in a coma from these hugs."

Dick ended up chuckling as he put Alfred down, "It's only because we miss you is all," Dick took a look around the area of the Batcave, "Can safely say somethings hasn't changed, but man… It feels good to be back here in the old cave."

While Peter enjoys Dick taking in the environment he knew so well since he was but a kid, he felt his ribs being poke by none other than Cassandra, "Hm?" Looking at her, he was surprised to see her kiss his lips. It was quick, a little sweaty from the workout she just finished, but sweet all together. "That was nice, as always," Cassandra giggled, "Hey," he held her hands, "How about we go out somewhere?"

Cassandra's smile fell, shaking her head, "Training."

"Come onnn.. Enough training, let's go out, on a date, real date instead of stay in dates," Peter beseech. Cassandra wanted to deny again, instead she went quiet, and in a sense, hesitated to look at Peter properly and rather look at the metallic ground they stood on. This was the hard part that Cassandra hated, staying disciplined, and having the stomach to reject Peter's advance for time with each other. Even when she says no, the hardest part will always be if he pushes. And this causes Peter to frown, both hating her becoming uncomfortable and denying her request all together. It was to be expected, he knew she would easily reject it, and he hated pushing the subject more to the point she couldn't look at him directly.

All because he knows she sees what he wants so badly, and she can't give it to him due to the dedication of being the only Bat in Gotham. But with the talk with Dick, he wants to listen to him, and he wants to try, just this once, "Look…" his thumbs gently rubbed the back of her hand, "I don't ask because I know how you feel about it, especially when we should keep focus on keeping this city safe," the sympathetic voice alone was alluring to Cassandra, she so badly wanted to look at his eyes as he heard his convincing, loving tone. But again, she'll see everything; happiness of wanting more, wanting to do things, wanting to be the perfect boyfriend, not wanting to make a mistake, and certainly not wanting to push uncomfortable stuff onto her. It was this portion of the relationship that's been hard to handle, not because of him, no he was so endearing to heart, but it was simply her.

The tragic part was that she isn't the same woman that can give him what he wants because of what Joker did to her family, "I know we've got a killer to catch," Peter continued on, "But I want us to.." He paused, letting his shoulder shrug, "..Maybe get a little break, an actual break that involves us doing something. Like living a little you know? We haven't done anything like an actual date in so long...And I want us to go back to it. If only once...You know?"

Cassandra knew when the last time they did went out 'Not since…Getting rid of the..symbiote...And having to deal with...Bruce,' Cassandra almost wanted to say out loud.

And Cassandra hasn't heard Peter push this much in sometime, likely because Dick was here. Or maybe it was the bit she heard from his talk with Alfred yesterday? Or even the conversations with Jason? 'What spurred...This...All this...And why now...?' She asked herself, "I.." Just as she opened her lip, she let it close, not having the guts, the strength to be honest with him. Because she doesn't want to hurt his feelings.

And she feels like she's been doing that a lot, "She would love too," Alfred came in, answering for her.

Cassandra looked at Alfred with bewilderment, "Alfred!"

He held a smug expression for his own doing, to which Dick had to hold back a snicker, "One day of being Cassandra and Peter wouldn't hurt."

"And plus," Dick had his arms on Alfred's shoulder, "I'm here! So why not take a break and let me take over. You two deserve a bit of rest anyhow."

"But-"

"No buts Miss Cain. Please," he wagged his fingers while switching his smugness into a warm smile, "Enjoy yourselves."

Hearing both people tell her to enjoy herself, telling her that she is allowed to enjoy herself, seemed unreal to Cassandra. She knows more people have told her this, she has done it before, but with everything that had happened to push her being Batwomen, it told her that she needed to prioritize that. And every step of the way, Peter was there, no if's or buts. She knows there were moments that Peter wanted to do more, be more, sometimes she tried to push it herself like quitting his job for something he genuinely wanted to do. But it was hard, it was and is hard for them to be able to have a sense of balance with their life.

In the moment of weakness, Cassandra looked back to Peter, seeing everything she knew she would see. The small smile, the patience he held onto, how gently he held her hands knowing it can crush a 10 ton object, how much she disliked his beard because it doesn't suit him, or the fact his hair is big and all over the place. She sees everything, everything she loves, every nitpick she can point out, the flaws he wears on his sleeve, and again, simply everything.

In the moment of weakness, in the moment of letting him touch her heart, she closed her eyes, breathed in and out, and opened it to where she let herself smile just a bit, "Where too?"

And Peter had the biggest smile on his face, one where he smoosh her lips, and it caused Cassandra to play into the kiss, while also ignoring his annoying beard brushing along her face.

---

Selina was right in the fact that Peter would really only dress up for Cassandra these days. She herself, found it fascinating of the many clothes he tried to find to be appropriate for a date, but was always stomped, or not satisfied by it. Cassandra simply watched as she herself wore something rather simple; a jacket, long sleeve shirt under it, stretchable trousers, and boots. She also decided to wear a yellow beanie hat with a bat symbol on it for hell of it.

Peter would complain that it was bit on the nose, but she couldn't care less due to people not expecting her to be Batwomen. She may be slightly taller than most women her age, but she also looked harmless like a bat.

The inside joke made her giggle, something Peter wanted to know, but she didn't say it. She kept her hair in the ponytail, just in case she needed to suit up. Speaking of suiting up, she had her own bag that contained the interwoven armor suit, just in case.

Meanwhile, Peter still was being indecisive of what to wear. As much as she loves seeing his bubbly self, nervousness, and trying to make sure he doesn't wear anything doll. She would get up from her bed head and choose for him.

A coat.

A regular shirt.

A regular pair of pants.

And regular shoes.

Nothing extraordinary, nothing that made him stand out, but made him like a handsome regular gentleman taking her out on a date. She liked it like that anyhow, it was him and not someone else. Peter would try to sway her judgment, saying he can do better, asking her if she was sure.

Easily, she shut him up with a kiss.

Now dressed up, Peter didn't forget to have part of his costume underneath to help with the clothes, the pants and shoes were in his own bag too. Alfred would request to drive them, to which they couldn't deny.

Peter made sure to tell him where to go in the old fashioned Rolls Royce Silver Wraith. Somehow, its pure black and silvery bulky look was taken in great care with how easily it still runs. Peter wonders how Alfred kept this thing alive since it was made in the mid 20th century.

Since he was back he'll make sure to do his own part to keep it in shape, and to make sure his engineering side of his doesn't get rusty.

Alfred drove them to Miagani island by the Upper East side, up north from the Fashion district. He would park near a Gotham theater that held classical storytelling with the usage of ballet. Cassandra was surprised that of all places, Peter wanted her to take her here.

He asked if it was ok?

How could she deny it? Her heart warms, irked at seeing the posters of people posing, the monitors inside the building showcasing previews of the plays, and the overall need to see it.

And how could she deny something she loves, something she still wants to do, and truly be a part of?

Cassandra's answer was an easy yes. It was ok to be here.

Peter opened the door for her, holding her hand as she made it out the car. Alfred told them to enjoy their date, to which they will with all their hearts.

Peter pays for the ticket, in fact it seems like Peter had all this plan out since they were able to make it on time to see a ballet play. Cassandra chooses L'Oiseau de feu, or The Firebird translated in English. They went to the theater and found their seats on the top row.

Cassandra wanted the bird's eye view of the play, wanted to see it all and not miss a thing.

Soon, the play starts, and while Peter wouldn't enjoy as much as Cassandra, he took in pleasure at seeing her awestruck expressions when watching every ballet movement.

The music encompassed much of their movements, along with the lighting and costume designs that were integrated for story purposes. It was about a prince who after defeating an evil villain, was given a feather from a fire bird after sparing its life. He would thus then recall the fire bird to help him fully stop the villain by putting him and his allies to sleep, and destroying the very egg that held its soul.

Each lateral movement, each contra lateral movement, held deep meanings that Cassandra could see. The fear and yet courageous heart of the hero. The power, the rarity that the firebird was. The dark, malicious, greed the villain possessed. And the love the hero found in his darkest time, that helped him fight for a chance to live on to flourish in blissfulness that was love.

Cassandra saw it all, understood it all that it brought a trickle of tears, a present beam on her face as she gave a standing ovation for the ballet once it was finished.

In the end, she couldn't help but look at the man beside her, the man who would do anything for her, and the man she see's a lot in this play. While he was busy clapping like the rest of the audience, she couldn't help but be grateful to be reminded of who she was with, of who has been by her side when times had gotten tough.

And no matter what, she doesn't want to lose him, and if so, she will do anything to keep him by her side, by her family side.

Because she loves him, with all her heart.

---

Night hasn't completely reached Gotham yet. Peter and Cassandra were simply taking their time to be normal. To them? It was refreshing. Sometimes because of the amount of things they've done as Spider-Man and Batwomen, uneventful things could remain uneventful.

But not to them, no instead, they were walking around Gotham.

Holding hands.

Taking the bus.

Eating food in restaurants.

Taking the crowded train.

Indulging in eating some ice cream even if it's getting colder.

And walking through a park, Robinson park that lay in the center of Miagani island.

Cassandra was still enthralled in the ballet play she saw when eating her chocolate ice cream, "I forgot..How good it is..! To watch them… Watch them all Movee… Like that!"

Peter chuckled, through the evening, he loved seeing the happy expression that was plaster all over her face. It been sometime since he seeing her like that, not because of him or the family she interacts with, but an actual clear happiness when living amongst the people of Gotham, "I'm so glad you enjoyed it, but be careful with eatin-" Cassandra groan the second she chomp on her chocolate ice cream. Holding her head and having her eyes shut was a clear indication of one thing, "And so we found out folks! That Cassandra Cain can handle the heat, but not the cold!" Peter said, using his cherry vanilla cone like it was a microphone.

She pouted and glared at him, "Help meeee!" she mewled.

"Hmmm…" With the tap of his fingers on his chin, and a light bulb that fuse right on top of his head, Peter would do such thing, "With me knowing a lot about biology, a contact with another heat source could li-"

Peter was cut off by Cassandra kissing him. Because it was Gotham no one paid attention to the young people making out, even if some did, they were simply happy at seeing a couple like that share a moment with one another. Once they departed, Cassandra again groaned because the brain freeze was still active, "Still thereeee!"

Peter encircled his arms to pull her close to him as they continued to walk, "You're gonna have to live with it for a bit."

Sooner than later, they each finish their ice creams, also eating the cone itself. They ended up stopping right by where Robinson park had a pond. It had some onlookers in boats, and also had some animal life like ducks and fishes in those ponds. This moment of seeing everyone like this is what captured Peter's attention, and since he had the time, while also out and about with Cassandra, he felt now was the time to ask her something he had been meaning to ask, "Can I say something to you?" Peter asked, moving his arms to the railing near them.

"Always," she hated when he does subtle stuff like that. No matter what, Peter could, should ask, or say whatever it is that comes to his mind when he's around her. Sure, it was common courtesy that he learned from his aunt and uncle, but she still never seemed to like that. Cassandra would mimic Peter's position, but keep herself close to him where her arms and body were touching his.

Peter ponders his own thoughts just a bit more before saying what's on his mind, wanting to be careful, precise, and make sure his point comes across properly, "Lately, these past few days, I've been thinking about my life. Simultaneously, it led to you too. We've been… Very busy with Gotham for the past year. A Lot has happened even before that made us focus more on Gotham than ourselves; for me it was losing a lot of the people we're closest to me. Gwen's father, Gwen herself, Harry in a way, and then May.. They were the ones that kept me grounded, including people like MJ, Vicki, Robbie, and the people from Gazette. They all had their own way keeping the path I was on, such as finishing college to be a great scientist, a great engineer that the likes of billionaire cooperation would want in their hands, and whatever else I could be. But the few that passed, or even the ones that left my life, I stopped doing those things and became focused on the mask, and that led to…Not being around you or anyone else in Gotham…" Peter said, clutching both of his hands, letting out a small sigh at how tough it was always bringing up these subjects.

Cassandra knows this, which is why she wraps one of her arms around his, comforting him. He briefly looked at her, seeing her nodding for him to continue on, so he did, "I prioritize being Spider-Man more than Peter Parker. I sought Bruce, Alfred, Selina, Barbara, Dick, Jason, Tim, Steph, and you as the people I can talk to when I can. You all were the people who I could see as my own adopted family after everything that happened to me as the years went on. So I latch onto all you more just so I can have a safety net...To be grounded again in a sense," he let out a light chuckle, "I know in my younger years I was somewhat distant, and he wouldn't exactly approve of being more closer to Bruce and everyone, but I know he wouldn't be ashamed of what came out of it. Especially us, even though it's a little weird when you put the whole family thing together with us."

Cassandra giggled too, letting Peter smile up little more than him being gloomy, "Not weird. Both of us never… Saw each other… Like the rest of… The family...And didn't mind you being...Distant. It was you...You had your own family...People...Only fair you were close...To them...More than us," she said.

"True, don't excuse it though. I know I could've handled it much better if given the chance."

"Of course. Because you're good."

"I try to be."

"No, don't try, you and are."

"Beeeecauseee?" He asked with an eyebrow raised, just as his smirk still remained on his face.

"Simple. Bat," she pointed to herself, "And Spider," she pointed to his chest, the chest that his vested upper body costume underneath the rest of his other clothes, "Have to be good, for them," she gestured her head to everyone in the park, "All of them."

"You are indeed right," His eyes look back at the pond, watching the ducks moving in the water with their family, "Anyhow, all of them including you told me about having to keep Peter alive then just being Spider-Man. Yet how could I do that? All the people I love… All the people I knew, grew up with, or simply were normal, weren't around anymore. Each one of them steadily disappeared from my life, either it being my fault or not my fault. I couldn't cope with that, still have a hard time coping with that," he then shook his head, "But I've been through this perpetual cycle before, one where the balance of my life often gets shaken by something, anything. I wanna find my balance again, I know I need to find my balance again so I can be not only a better person," he then looks at his girlfriend, "But also to you too. I don't know how, or where to start, but I want too.."

Cassandra let out a small gasp, hearing his confidence in his tone, and seeing his aura that he means those words with all of his heart, "Peter…" But she couldn't help but note there was more he was leaving out though.

He guided his free hands to her's, "I...know, Gotham comes first. But...Just as I want to regain some balance, don't you think you should too?"

Cassandra didn't have a clear response to that. Just as her heart swelled, her heart shattered into cold ice at him bringing up something she herself can't ever hope to do.

Because Batwomen matters more, should matter, Cassandra Cain shouldn't matter, shouldn't need to matter.

She always wonders how people like Bruce and Peter could do both, and she sees Peter a lot of the time struggle to handle both. As much as she wants to be, she isn't Peter, she doesn't have a proper life outside of being the Bat, and when she did had one, it went up into flames and she never want to do that again, 'Can't let people get hurt...Cause of me...Not again,' she said to herself. She was trained to be a killer, and when that didn't take, she became something better than that thanks to Bruce and his family. She even learns to love thanks to the man beside her. But how could she live in two worlds when she can't protect both? Or the fact that she never exactly had that type of life outside of Batwomen.

She was building it once upon time; through ballet, through drawing, at one point, she was building a life outside of being the Bat. But just like how she sees Peter's two worlds colliding to one another, or even the same with Bruce and the rest of her family, it happened to her. While yes, there are aspects she wants to understand due to watching Bruce and Peter for years on how they handle certain tasks, she wants to learn how to be herself more than them, but that begs a question that she's now realizing, 'Yet who am I, without the Bat?' She asked herself, finding herself lost in her own thought that her eye contact with Peter was lost.

That is till he moved a strand of her long hair away from eyelid. The little gesture brought back her attention to him, "Once upon time, I knew a younger women who wanted to do ballet, be on the stage like the dancers she watches day and day out," Cassandra snorted, knowing exactly who he is talking about, but also, knowing her so well it's like he knew magic of sorts to read her mind. Something Peter doesn't know and rather's not know, "Sure, she never exactly was the social type, not because she didn't want to be, but it was simply hard when she didn't know a lot of the words to convey through word of mouth."

"Where is this going?" She asked, wanting him to stop tip-toeing with what he wanted to say.

"The way you enjoyed the ballet today, the way you were on the edge of your seat, the way how happy you were, and the way it brought you into tears, you should pursue ballet again Cass."

"I can't."

Peter sighs, his head lowering to his shoulders for a second before he lifts it up, "It's not fair that I get told to balance both my life, but you don't want to either. Even when you can be so extraordinary at things you love doing," Peter said, annoyed at the same answer, the same knowing response he expected. Cassandra went quiet, she wanted to break away from Peter, but then that meant running away. And Cassandra doesn't run away from problems, no matter how uncomfortable it can get for her, "You love ballet, you love drawing, you're excellent at both! And you can be someone who takes the world by storm Cass! Why?" his eyebrow shrewd, "Why do you always say I can't? You can! But you don't want to beca-"

"Because what Peter?" she asked a question, a question that was egging him on to answer her.

"Because you're afraid to have a normal life that Joker took from you!"

"Then you know why I can't," her expression slowly started scowling, because this is something Peter knew and he shouldn't try to push or force something she doesn't want to do. Cassandra doesn't matter, Batwomen matters.

"...And what if you quit?" her eyes widened at his next statement, causing her to look at him, and wondering why in the hell he would ever ask her that? "What if I endure all that burden, protect the city alone? Woul-"

"No!" She fiercely glared, "Gotham needs the Bat! Needs me! I have to wipe the blood! I have to redeem the symbol!" Cassandra spoke without ever stuttering a single word.

"It's not your responsibility Cassandra!" Peter spoke, mentioning her full first name since he normally doesn't do so, "It was his fault! Not yours!"

"And so I have to do it! It is my responsibility!"

"But this city has me! I can protect it all by myself! I've done it before!"

"And you got hurt! You need me!"

"But I want you to live!"

"I am alive!"

"NO YOUR NOT CASS!" Peter now shouted. He hated doing this, but since it was now in the air, he couldn't back down, "YOU KEEP GOING DOWN THIS ROUTE THEN YOU WILL NEVER BE ALIVE!"

"YOU'RE NOT BETTER!"

"I'M TRYING TO BE! AND I WANT THE SAME FOR YOU!"

"WHY DO YOU CARE ABOUT WHAT I DO?! IT'S NOT YOUR LIFE!"

Peter felt offended at that question, it hit him hard as if he was fighting the rhino again, "WHY?! YOU DON'T WANT ME TO CARE?! IS THAT WHAT YOUR ASKING?! WHY WOULD YOU EVER SAY WHY I SHOULD CARE CASSANDRA?! ABOUT YOU OF ALL PEOPLE"

"I'M HERE!" she pointed to herself as she now let herself go from Peter, "LIVING!" she gestures to all around her, "BREATHING!" she breaths in and out, only serving to make her look more irritated, "THIS! ALL THIS!" she gestures to the clothing she wore, "DOESN'T MATTER! THIS ONLY DOES!" She then pointed at the bat symbol on her yellow beanie.

"...So…" Peter backed away from Cassandra little, having his hands in his pocket. Neither was caring about the people looking at them as they were shouting at each other, "What? You wanna die Cassandra? Is that what your… Saying...? You wanna be like your mother...? Battling till you...You die..?"

Cassandra felt a shock go into her system, her hand wanting to reach out to Peter, to bring back the joy they had just a moment ago. Only now, she felt cold, not because of the ice cream, not because of winter coming, no she was just… Cold. Cold and alone, because the truth of his words hurt her. And she saw Peter was hurt too, more hurt then she was. He couldn't even look at her properly, and it was more than that, she saw that he couldn't stand her. The idea that she's only living to die, nothing else and nothing more. And this is something she's been wanting to avoid, something she's been trying to avoid for so long.

But it seems she couldn't keep avoiding it, or couldn't keep running away from it. She couldn't keep running away from how alike she is to her own mother, one of the best assassins in the world. From wanting a challenge, a real challenge, even if it means life or death. That's what she wants, what she craves, the thing that can make her feel alive most of all. Cassandra has the same feeling, has it ever since Joker's death, ever since fighting Bruce, even ever since she took on Peter's villain venom.

She hasn't been challenge to the death for so long that she seeks those battles. And knowing that Peter sees it, it makes her feel disgusted to the point she hates herself, hates herself more than she ever had before. What's worse is that she feels guilty in a twisted sense of wanting to endure what Joker did to her. Because it tested her life in the end, it tested her resolve, her mind, her body, everything, and she survived in the end.

Now, Peter knows, and now Peter, who took a look at her, see's that his questions were on point. It left his mouth open, his eyes sad, his own stomach twisting and turning from just knowing that this is what Cassandra has been feeling, dealing with for so long, and she never once told him.

How could he ever be a husband to her when she would hide her problems, run away from her problems, instead of being open to him?

Yet how can he be a husband if he's doing the same in the end? How can he be a husband when he himself, even if he is trying, has been so busy running away from his own problems that he can't find a way to fix it, only to make it worse.

The easiest answer? They weren't ready for that type of relationship, because there were already cracks in their relationship that had been, but now clear as day, been tearing them apart. Slowly, and surely.

And in the end? Both are hypocrites to who they are. They want to be better, but they can't. They want to move forward, not run away, yet they do run away.

Instead of wearing their flaws, they are their flaws at this moment, and no bandage can cover up the flaws they fully see with one another.

Peter's phone rang from his pocket, stopping him from whatever he was going to say as he looked to who was calling. Cassandra took note at his eyebrow raise, "Who?"

"Bruce," he said shortly before picking it up, "Hey," he turned his back away from Cassandra, having one arm crossed and the other on top of it.

"We found him. Get to the Batcave now."

Bruce quickly hung up and Peter could only scoff at his luck. His neck turns to Cassandra with his expression changing to poker face. She knew what time it was and he didn't need to say it.

It meant putting their conversation on hold, cause there were more important things to worry about then their relationship.

End of I

Chapter 8: Survival of the fittest

II: Useless

 

Peter and Cassandra made it to the Batcave, with the latter being swung there behind his back. They were both in their costumes, both now stood in the Batcave with the likes of Alfred, Dick, Barbara, and both surprisingly and not so surprisingly, Bruce. Bruce's eyes were kept on the Bat computer, hands and body leaning by the huge computer while working alongside Barbara near his side. Noticing the two other heroes made it around close to 9, he felt an oblige smirk creep from his lips, "You've gotten faster Peter. Good to see that," Bruce commented when looking back at the pair, more specifically Peter briefly as they walked up to them.

Peter and Cassandra stood near them, a portion of the Batfamily that is in the Batcave. It should feel grand, a reunion where the heroes' of Gotham are now in a sense, fully working together. But that wasn't the case; Peter and Cassandra issues weren't dealt with, and put to the side to handle the threat that's on the loose. Both can tell the air was already uncomfortable with Bruce being here, and they both would have guessed that neither any of them look to make a conversation of sorts with him. If anything, Cassandra noticed Dick being the only person who wasn't too awkward, but rather oddly, a bit impatient with his mouth frowning, his fingers twitching ever so often, and his feet lightly tapping the metallic floor.

Under her cowl, she had to raise an eyebrow at that little quirk.

"Normally I would retort something back, and maybe you would do the same," Peter sling Cassandra bags near the computer, "But that's more in the past anyhow. What are you doing here Bruce?" Peter questioned right by the side of Bruce.

"What does it look like?" Corner of his eyes gaze over to Peter, "I'm helping without being on the field."

"And you shouldn't have too remember?"

"Hm," was the only response he gave back to Peter, a way of him ignoring the subject and moving on. This only serves to cause Peter to suck his teeth and groan at the stubbornness Bruce still has in him.

Yet it was inevitable that Bruce would get himself back here, back to the life he so badly wants to go back too. If there was any consolation, he has the necessary willpower not to go a step further then what he's doing now. Seeing Peter was gonna push forward, Dick had to be the voice in the situation to make sure nothing goes haywire. Lord knows its already been awkward since Bruce came in, but with Peter here? It'll get more uncomfortable, "Bruce kind of just barge in with Babs," Dick said, moving more closer to Alfred side so he can lean by the bat computer, enough so he can turn and see the monitor and have a look at everyone, "Apparently he was keeping tabs on the situation since the Halloween stunt."

"Not surprising. I wonder what Selina had to say about that?" Bruce didn't answer Peter remarks, choosing to ignore then answer back. As Peter said, it was a thing of the past and he wouldn't bring it back to the present.

"Not the time," Cassandra spoke, now being the person to stop Peter from agitating Bruce. Peter looked at her, but she wasn't looking at him and kept her focus on what was in front of her. In doing so, Peter couldn't help but sigh for two reasons; one, he was acting a bit childish from his comments, but that's because its part of his own responsibility to keep Bruce away from any this. Failing that only served to rub him the wrong way even when he knew of the possibility of something like this happening. And two, Cassandra's tone and posture says a lot in the fact that she would ignore what happened to them minutes ago. Understandable, more important matters were at hand.

Yet he won't lie, it stings how easily she can switch off her emotion so easily unlike him.

Alfred brought up information on his side, one showcasing a man with a crazed, killer look in his ice cold eyes, a maniac smile, and a red hair that a strand of it gloss over his eyes, "Cletus Kasady, match a bit of the description from Zsasz, and found surveillance of him in the Asylum that Bruce set up just in case for these moments," Barbara explained, "The only reason why we could only get anything from that specific camera was because any footage involving him was completely wiped in the Asylum. I asked Cash and he doesn't know why either, and oddly enough, even he doesn't remember Cletus at all."

"So what? He put himself in there?" Peter questioned, finding it all bizarre of what this killer is even doing there in the first place. What was the point of being in the Asylum when nothing of importance came about? Or so it seemed, 'Maybe he was building an army through there? But why now of all places?'

"Quite possibly, he seems to be a person with no exact goals or interest to his carnage," Alfred spoke, being his turn, "It was a bit hard to find pieces of information outside of Gotham, but whatever was deleted had left bits of breadcrumbs to find something of Cletus," he brought up more information of Cletus while Barbara was rummaging through camera's in each district of Gotham, trying to locate him, "Born in your old home of New York City master Parker. He grew up with violent parents, transferred to his grandmother when they both died, and ended up killing her by pushing her down the stairs at 10, but it was ruled an accident. Tragically, the grandmother was not even abusive towards Cletus with a good portion of her friends' neighbors telling police that she was a kind and caring person," Cassandra clinched her hands within her biceps upon hearing of this new info. A killer at such a young age was something she detested, but one that did it likely without a cause or reason, and just for the sake of it, "He then proceeded to switch from home to home, proving more of his psychotic nature as he no longer could hide some of his killings. Eventually, he was arrested for adult charges at 17 when he burned down his foster home," Alfred concluded.

"Ok, but that doesn't explain Arkham. If he was in either the raft or rikers then why did he come here? Who authorized his transfer for Arkham?" Peter again questions, questions that weren't adding up and making him just a bit more frustrated.

"That's where things get muddle," Bruce mentioned, "He must have close ties with someone that wiped much of his history, a deep clean that we only barely found from old records. Meaning whoever did help him, was simply sloppy and couldn't cover the tracks properly. But with how rush it seemed, quite possibly their partner might've not been prepare for the task."

Peter's response was a small groan when his hands rub against his chin. With Peter attention not on her, Cassandra had her own moment of looking at him. She noticed his growing agitation through his small movement and she so badly wanted to help with that. Whether it was holding his hands or one of his fingers, be close to him, or maybe a simple kiss all, she want to comfort him knowing they'll catch this killer. But after their argument it was hard to tell where they could stand.

She wants to be Batwomen, only Batwomen.

And he wants to be both Spider-Man and Peter Parker.

They hail from two different worlds that now are becoming harder to stay put with one another. Both want to do something, anything to reassure them that beyond the killer, they will get through their turmoil they have right now. But both know that what's going on in Gotham is more important than their relationship. Yet regardless of what, they can't help but feel like they both need to do something to change it, to nurture their relationship, before it falls apart. The question was now how they're gonna do that?

"And Wilson? We still got eyes on him right?" Peter asked

Alfred nodded to Peter, "He's still recovering and still making his presence less known to the public. Cassandra's location is still attached to him as we speak."

"Got him!" Barbara moves the screen on her end to find Cletus and a group of others going down the Gotham sewers, "We first had sight of him on this part in Chinatown of Old Gotham, and now this was taken only a minute from now on the upper west side."

Alfred would then pull up a layout of what that part of the sewer system would like, "There are multiple routes you'll need to explore here. Some would lead deeper and others would lead to dead ends."

"And since I'm the quickest, I would take first sight," Peter said.

"Gotta be careful on the Gotham sewers. Can't be running into either killer Croc or Grundy," Dick pointed out.

"We should be fine," Peter shook his head, "These days Waylon Jones is with the suicide squad, haven't seeing him in awhile and hope he's doing ok. And Grundy wouldn't hurt me, too much of a cupcake as long as people don't bother him."

"Beyond that, it looks like this carnage killer is setting up a meeting down there," Bruce deduced.

"Meeting?" Cassandra brought up with a query in her tone.

"Assumingly so, everything so far has been pointing to him building an army. God knows what for but likely to combat us."

"Or me," Peter's voice was more monotone, but all the more serious knowing there's a chance this person is doing this all for him. Bruce turned to Peter, just as Peter did the same. Peter can see it in Bruce's eyes; the sheer focus, the grip he had on the table, his small scowl, the will, the need, to not be a bystander and take part in this fight that was coming. Bruce wants to be out there again, but Peter can't let that happen, "Whatever may come out of it, we got this. We've taken on crazy killers and super villains that tried having loads of armies against us. This won't be any different," Peter spoke in confidence, while also wanting to keep Cassandra's promise in full effect.

To keep Bruce out of this.

Bruce knew where Peter was going with this, and he saw the various expressions from everyone when looking around. Dick who now held a frown when staring at him, Alfred kept his eyes glued on the screen as he couldn't afford to look at him, to face him. Barbara having a worried expression, knowing she rather Bruce not to try to put the cowl on again but also, worried for Peter and Cassandra of this new threat coming into the picture that pose a real big threat to them. Peter on the other hand, he can tell from his posture alone he was keeping him in check, keeping him in place, and making sure he doesn't screw up what he's got going on now. Peter was and still is the person to keep him in check, and Bruce at one point was the same for Peter.

In the years before Peter became more prominent in his life, it was Alfred and Dick that always looked to keep him in check. Then came Jason and Barbara, but things changed. Dick would go on to be his own hero then a sidekick, Jason would get killed, and Barbara would lose the use of her legs thanks to Joker, breaking her confidence momentarily, and it was Peter that filled in the spot as time passed on in his career as Spider-Man. They both became an anchor for each other, to not let one or the other stray from their path. Then this led to the likes of Tim, Stephanie, and Cassandra, having a full network of people to support him and check on him. Obviously, specifically involving Peter and Bruce, they weren't always able to keep one another in check.

Case in point with Bruce killing Joker last year, or even when Peter was dealing with the symbiote. Both going into a deeper dark place that Cassandra had to pull them out.

Unlike the rest of them, Cassandra was harder to crack in terms of getting an idea of her own headspace. Compared to all the people, all the Robins, the other former Bat females he helped train and grew to be their own individual self, Cassandra was in every shape of who Bruce is, the part of Bruce he hid from everyone that didn't know of him on a personal level. Not the intelligent side, or the charismatic side he puts on a play for everyone outside the cave, no, she represents the physical embodiment of the Bat itself.

Dick was the more agile fighter, smart in his own right, but courageous and a beacon of light for others who would follow him into battle. He's always the shining example of the good that Bruce did when taking care of him after the loss of his parents. In a sense, a prime example of what he wished he could be, but left in the hands of a more capable person.

Barbara was the more balanced fighter; she made sure she was good at everything, not great, but enough so that there weren't any holes in how she approached anything she faced when she had the usage of her legs. She shares much of her father's, former commissioner Gordan, characteristics; stubborn, brave, and the will to do anything and everything to keep the people she love and her city safe. Even when she lost the usage of her legs, she used her brain to the fullest that still made her a combative ally to the Bat family.

Jason was the more brutal fighter, anger drove him to do what's necessary by any means. It caused him his own death, but also is what drives him more these days. Bruce tried his best to move him away from the lustful anger that Gotham brought on him, but he always still felt like he hadn't done enough of the job to do that. The regret of not being able to save Jason in time still got to Bruce, and with him coming back from the dead only kept serving to remind him that he should've done more into helping Jason. He still wishes to uphold that responsibility, but Jason wouldn't let him, and in the process it hurts Bruce that he can't do much to help him.

Tim was the cerebro fighter; the Robin that inherited Bruce's intelligence and detective aspect as he figured out Bruce and Dick's identity with ease. Not only that, he proved himself why he wanted to be Robin, to carry out the mantle when there wasn't any Robin due to Jason's death. Times like this, Bruce feels Robin is needed more than ever, he feels Tim is needed more to help coordinate and keep everything and everyone at a balanced state. But sadly, it's unlikely Tim would ever come back to his home to be Robin due to what Joker had taken away from last year. Again, another person he wishes to help, but can't due to them not wanting to help from him.

Stephanie was the odd fighter; using unorthodox tactics to get her ways, but also moving in and out as her key take away in combat. She wasn't the smartest, the strongest, or the fastest fighter he taught, but she was unique and unpredictable when it came to rising to the challenge. Enough so she became Batgirl when Cassandra no longer wanted to find her own path without being Batgirl 2 years ago. She proved to not only herself, but to Barbara and Cassandra that she deserved to be the new Batgirl at the time, to be a better person knowing her father was the reverse of own heroic self. Bruce can only hope that Stephanie is not only in good health, but she's taking good care of Tim's own well being.

Peter was a special case beyond his powers. For one, he preferred learning on his own, fighting on his own, but overtime as the years went by, he loosened up in terms of learning from others, and gaining help from others. In doing so, once Bruce was able to train him, he found that he was the best out of everyone he could ever have taught. Smart, fast, strong, quick on his feet, adapting, always pressing forward no matter what happens, and intelligently sound to keep up with the smartest of people. He had powers to help him, but it wasn't the power that defined his heart, his brain, his choices, and who he is. He already had that in him when he learned what power and responsibility truly meant. In all honesty, Peter is the representation of someone who could keep Gotham safe beyond the night. In all that he has been through, Peter is still fighting to do that exact same thing. In some semblance, Bruce still feels proud of the young man for all that he has done, sharing similar qualities like Dick. But unlike Dick, part of him still wishes the man near him would give up this life, to be normal for a chance. For all the good, blood, sweat, and tears he put up for Gotham, he has every right to not keep doing this.

But also, he shares that same willpower to keep going, even with all the pain and tragedy he's dealt with. In Bruce's eyes, he's a better man than he could ever be, because he hasn't let tragedy and trauma break him as it did for him.

And Cassandra? A woman who was raised by an assassin, learned to kill as a child, learn body language then language itself, watches everyone and anything before she presses on the attack, Cassandra was the embodiment of a perfect fighter, a perfect soldier, and a perfect warrior. It's why Bruce chose her, not just because everyone in the Bat family wasn't fit for the role, but because she proved herself that day. That day when they face each other as the sun rises up over Gotham, when snow covered Gotham, she proved herself that he can pass on the torch to her. That she, and only she, can bring back the meaning the Bat symbol once was for the people of Gotham. And she'll preserver through the grit, the pain, the torture of it all for Gotham.

Even if it cost her livelihood, and cost her happiness. Something Bruce caught a whiff of between her relationship with Peter. Because of her capability, it was hard for him to understand how she was eyeing him, not because of the cowl and its dark eyes covering up her expression, but how much she kept her own body still. From the briefest of glance, Bruce knew she was looking at him, just as he was doing the same. He could tell she like everyone didn't want him here, felt uncomfortable he was contributing here, because she of all people doesn't want him to fight. She doesn't trust him, not after all the things he did last year.

Yet, everyone here was in the same boat in terms of trust against Bruce. No one trust Bruce ever since he killed Joker, and went on a warpath to stopping crimes and criminals in its entirety, "...Every bit of help counts, I have to be here," Bruce ended up getting call that he had to take, a small undelightful expression meant it was no one of importance, but a bother. He moved away from the group, hand in pocket, "This is Wayne speaking."

Dick moves himself, more between Cassandra and Peter who had their eyes on Bruce, "So um… I know my memories are still shaky, but I assume Alfred and him aren't on the best of terms these days huh? Way worse than anyone else here?" Dick whispered.

Cassandra didn't answer, staying quiet.

Barbara also didn't answer, but glanced at Alfred who simply ignored it.

Peter sighed, "I'll explain after we handle this Kasady guy first. It's not exactly great news."

"When is it ever? Apparently Jason is drinking to death more than ever, Tim doesn't talk to any of us, Steph feels way too normal then she should from what I heard, also you two are acting pretty funny right now," he pointed out to Cassandra and Peter, both who's only respond by looking away, "I don't know what's going on with Selina, Babs here has been more quiet then I'm use too. Everything…Everything just feels so off! I know it had something to do with Joker, especially what he did to me bu-"

"Master Grayson," Alfred stopped typing away, "Enough…Please? Let us focus on the task at hand for the time being?"

Dick scratched his hair, his questioning only served to make not only him but everyone more uneasy, "..Sorry. Just…Everything feels odd, I mean we're still a family here right?" Dick couldn't help but asked.

And the saddest part was no one really had an answer. Showcasing how everything changed as Dick was recovering, and now he has an understanding how deep that change was. He let out a small sigh before clapping his hands together, "Ok then… Enough waiting, let's get this going right?" He slapped both Peter and Cassandra's shoulders as he jogged to the Batmobile, "I call shotgun!"

"No," Bruce voices with authority as he finishes talking to the people on his phone.

"No?" Dick eyebrow raised when backflipping on top of the Batmobile, "Come on Bruce I can handle myself like always!"

"Stick to surveying the area Dick, let Peter and Cassandra handle the rest," Bruce sanctioned.

A small scowl became apparent on Dick's face, "Bruce this won't be like last time. I'm good," he flipped off the Batmobile, "I'm great," he added a cartwheel when moving back to the Bat family that watched his sporadic movement, "I'm not a full on cabbage case anymore. Babs, back me up here."

Barbara turns her chair, looking in the eyes of her once dynamite duo, a person she knew so well from the inside and out. She didn't say a word at first, but then she looked at Bruce, "If I was able to walk again, right here and right now, I would go back on the field to help them Bruce."

"See! Even sh-"

"I'm not entirely saying I approved," Barbara said, holding her hand up and looking back at Dick, "Unlike me Dick, Joker beat you worse than he did to Jason before he killed him years ago when he was only 20. It was enough that when you had your aneurysm you were supposed to die," Barbara put her hands together, not wanting to think about that day, but she needs to put it into perspective for him, "...I get that you're healed, but we don't know how much. I mean we haven't even run any tests here."

"Why run tests? Alfred and Peter here got a small taste of me being the flying Grayson again!" Dick argued back, "You can't all be against this right?" Dick looked at each and everyone of them in the cave; while they eyed him, what was clear to Dick was the uncertainty of Dick's health, "...Right?" His eyes drift to Peter, "Peter..? Come on, you saw me in action."

"I did.. And you look great, almost like before."

"But?"

Peter took a few seconds to make his statement as clear as possible, "...But as I said, and Babs too, no one was supposed to come out like how you did. Not without some hole's that can't be fixed."

Dick looked down for a second, taking off his domino mask for a second, looking at it, the identity he made after years of being in Bruce's shadow. To Dick, it wasn't fair what happened to him, and it wasn't fair of the skepticism he's now getting treated. It wasn't fair, yet he understands the skepticism. He responds the same way like everyone else.

Alfred would get up from his seat, walk up to Dick, "Master Grayson," placing a hand on his shoulder, "We just want to make sure that what happened before doesn't happen again."

As Dick looked up to Alfred, the elder man that had a play in not only the others, but shaping Dick to be who he is, Alfred knows he and everyone is coming from place with good intention. But that doesn't mean he has to like it. He gently shrugs his shoulders off, "Fine…" Dick put back on his domino mask and walked to the Batmobile, automatically open for him as he sat in the passenger seat.

Peter looks at everyone momentarily before looking at Dick. Bruce took note of the way he was looking; even with the mask on he could tell Peter found Dick's little argument odd, "You see it too?"

Peter nodded to Bruce, "No matter how little it is, something's off, something's been off with Dick," he whispered to the group, "Dick wouldn't just outright argue back from a simple test. And he's too touchy on the subject involving how much his health is approved. No matter what, Dick wouldn't get agitated like this so easily. Only time he had those reactions… Is when we try to talk to him about the times he got sexually assaulted…"

Everyone felt the gloom in the area came forth when Peter mentioned a specific trauma Dick underwent years back. But everyone understood, that's not something you can easily talk about, bring up, even if its for the best of intentions. Though, everyone can understand that the fact Dick was becoming like this over something simple as testing his health, or keeping him out of the fray.

It brought wariness and suspicions to why he was reacting like that.

"Exactly what I was thinking. For him to get like this...I can't help but he's hiding something, and yet I don't like how we are exiling him when he just got back to us," Barbara spoke of her opinion on the matter, "You all know, whatever is going on with him, he's going to fight with the both of you right? We can try to take away that choice, but Dick won't budge."

Cassandra shook her head, "Won't let it happen," she then looked to Peter, "Right?"

He again nodded, "You know what button you need to press. Yet Barbara has a point that won't stop him so expect that he'll try to help us. Once I'm down there, I'll set up multiple GPS tracking devices for you to follow my location, and I'll set up spider bots so Babs and Alfred can take note of the area I'm going in. I'll make sure to tell you when you can enter the sewer system but you need to hang back a bit. Just in case, we need this killer to know he'll be facing me and only me."

She nodded. Cassandra didn't like that Dick would be in the fight, nor coming with them in the first place. But she can't restrict him knowing the years of experience as a crime fighter taught him so much to escape from a lot of things. Even if it's someone who trains under the same person.

Cassandra proceeded forward to the Batmobile. Peter was going his way, outside where the drought of a supply of water had an opening for not only him but Cassandra to exit, "Peter," Peter turned his neck to Bruce, "Tread carefully. We don't know what this mad man is capable of"

Peter simply nodded. The Batmobile afterburner engine reeved throughout the cave, Peter made sure he had a proper utility belt for the supplies he needed, and he swung out the cave just when Cassandra put on the boost gauge on to leap out of the cave.

Heroes were in action, no matter how tense things are behind their mask.

---

Cassandra made sure to slow down her driving as requested. She needed to make sure the villains didn't know of her presence as they'll know of Peter's presence. The car ride to Old Gotham was quiet before Dick decided he didn't like the silence between them, "You've gotten better at the wheels," he said.

"Thanks," Cassandra plainly said.

"Love the new outfit, really embracing the knight," he added in another comment.

"Thank you," she again said in the same tone as before.

Again the car ride went quiet, but this was Dick, he wouldn't let it be quiet forever, "..I'm sorry. Back there I just want to be useful again and not be stuck in the passenger seat."

"You are," she jested, her tone still was plainly fun enough.

It got Dick to chuckle at her dry, jested tone, "Good one. But seriously, after a whole 12 month period of constant therapies from off world, having Kory's sister using tech to get me back to where I'm at? I thought you guys would trust the fact I did nothing to boost myself. I mean, Peter and Bruce are the paranoid type while Babs and Alfred are the worry type, but you? You were always quiet, yet would do everything in your power to bear the burden of what Gotham has to offer than anyone else has to deal with. Who am I kidding... I wasn't gonna win regardless of what."

Cassandra didn't say anything at first, cutting corners to corners, not letting other cars stop her, "...Just want everyone...To be happy."

"Even Peter?" He asked, putting his arms by the back of her seat, letting his chin sit on it, "Which means having him give up fighting crime?"

"Yes, he deserves it the most."

"But you know he won't stop."

"...Yes…"

Silence rained on the car once more, allowing the conversation to take hold before Dick needed to ask Cassandra something, "What happened on your date with him?"

"W-what?" Stuttered and briefly looked back at him, not expecting Dick to ask that at all times. Yet she should've, because this was Dick. He, like Barbara, would look out for everyone in terms where they're head is at.

"As I said, you two were acting funny. I'm not a great body language reader like you or Bruce, but I'm no slouch either. From my memories, especially from earlier, you two were always close, real close. But this is one of the few times, regardless of costume, you two were distant from each other. So…What happened?"

"...We fought."

"Ah, the ole arguing with one another. It's wha-"

"Don't wanna talk about it," Cassandra cut him off, quickly wanting to focus on the mission.

"Can't keep it bottling inside you Cass," Dick mentioned, "Now would be a good time to get it out and about. Plus, it would make up for 12 months since we haven't really talked beyond simply texting. Koriand'r did most of the work but it was still texting."

"Hm.." Dick would've laughed from hearing that small groan. It reminded him of Bruce every time he pokes and prod in his business, especially when it comes to dating wise, "..I feel like…I'm losing him…That I'm not…Enough for him," Cassandra said with honesty in her voice.

"He'll be fine, you both will," Dick reassured, "You two have been committed to each other for about 2 years now, it's bound some complications would rise at some point."

"..We argued before.. Sometimes it was about how…I did things…Sometimes he kept stuff from…Me…Sometimes I chose to work…Alone…And sometimes, it involved his…Former partners," Cassandra said, each sentence becoming harder to say due to her speech impediment. She needed to try to convey her thoughts better than saying things that had her stopping almost every time, "...Now it's different. The mask. Us. Is getting between us. I want to be me. He wants both the Spider and him. I can't be him. Don't want to go back."

Dick took in all that she said, both her proper and improper way, "You know Cass, you're not Bruce right?"

"I've killed."

"But you were a child, raised by a father who only wanted a killer Cass. It's different for Bruce because he was pushed so far to the point he broke. We all hoped Bruce would never cross that line, but he is only human. At some point, all the things he's been through would cause him to break."

Dick heard her scoff, "Then it could happen to me. I'm no different," she said as her tone became agitated.

"But it won't!" Dick said a little louder, "You know better, we all taught you to be better. Ever since Barbara and Bruce took you in after Gotham went to no man's land, they, and then everyone else helped teach you to be better."

Cassandra grip the wheel of the seat, her teeth clench as she hated hearing the same damn thing over and over. That she's different from Bruce, that she was taught to be better overtime, that in hindsight, she can be something beyond Batwomen. And as she turned hard left, she grew tired of the same words, "NO ONE UNDERSTANDS! I AM HIM! I WILL BE HIM! THIS IS ALL I EVER WANTED! I'M DESTINED TO END UP LIKE HIM!"

Dick was repulsed by her shout, not used to her shouting like that. But he let her do it as she was picking up the speed in her Batmobile due to her annoyance being raised. Because of the speed she was moving at now, he was sent back to his seat, "MOM! DAD! ALL KILLERS! WHAT STOP ME TO BE LIKE TH..EM?! BECAUSE I HAVE…PETER?!" She turns on the afterburners, speeding right down the street of Gotham, wheezing past traffic lights and cars, "HE KNOWS! HE KNOWS ABOUT MY FEELINGS! I'M GONNA LOSE HIM! BECAUSE I'M LIKE THEM! I'M LIKE THEM ALL! AND I CAN'T HELP IT!"

Dick held on to his own seat, 'Dear lord, don't put me into another coma for what I've done.'

"JOKER TOOK EVERYTHING! MY LIFE! MY JOB! MY HOME! MY FAMILY! I CAN'T HAVE THAT! I CAN'T HAVE WHA…T PETE…R WANTS! BECAUSE I'LL LOSE…IT! ALL OF IT! EVEN IF IT COST HIM! I CAN'T BE WEAK! MUST…BE STRONG! STRONGER..THAN BATMAN! IF IT MEANS I LOSE! LOSE EVERYTHING! THEN SO BE IT! NO ONE GETS HURT! NO ONE DIES! EVERYONE LIVES! HAPPILY...EVER...AFTER!"

"CASS BUILDING!"

In her blind rage, Cassandra gasp, pumping the brakes as hard as she can, causing it to drift and she steer the wheel to the left, banging and scraping some parked cars that blew their sirens, but thanks to Dick, she manages to safely keep the car from crashing through a building. Dick let out a sigh of relief, placing his hand together as his prayers were heard, "Thank you Jesus…"

Cassandra slowed down, noticing on her map in front of her that she was catching up to Peter too soon. She slows down the Batmobile and focuses on calming herself, breathing in and out, "...Sorry," she said, looking behind her to take in account how Dick is, "Ok?"

"Yeah...Yeah I'm good...Almost had a heart attack sheesh! And I did push your buttons," he said with a shrug, "So I should be the one apologizing."

"..No…Needed it.. Needed it out. As you said," she lets out a huge sigh from her chest, "I love him. I'm losing him. Don't know. What should I do?" She inquired more of Dick's wisdom on her predicament.

"Well..First step, take a leap of faith. Talk to him about all what you're feeling, and trust that'll he not only listen, but want to help you through it Cass. Because I bet, no matter what happens, Peter will never lose faith in who you are, and he'll never lose that trust for you. It's just a bump in the road right now, you'll both get through it."

Dick had a point, in everything he said, he had a point. And if Cassandra was honest with herself, that was the scary part. Taking a leap of faith in hoping Peter wouldn't react so negatively to all that she's been feeling either since being Batwomen or what's going on now, "...He's better than...Me...Not sure if...I can keep up...With him..."

The car ride was quiet after their heart to heart conversation. But Cassandra was no longer worrying about the doubts or stressing about what to do next with her relationship with Peter. She has to do what she's scared of, take a leap of faith. For Peter. For his love. For their future together. The Question is when? When can she do this with all that's going on now? And why is now the time for poor timing?

But what's even more scary compared to whoever she's gonna face down, was can she do this? Can she take the leap of faith? Can she fix the shattered glass that was always breaking till it reached its boiling point? She knows what she must do, but the when, and if she can, is what's holding her back.

---

Peter found himself in sewers of Old Gotham, the smell was something nasty that even his mask couldn't protect him from, 'I'm really gonna need to wash the suit later,' with the tap of the side of his mask, he open his line up for communication, "I made it to the sewer system," from his utility belt, he implanted a small device on top of the small tunnel he maneuvered in, "Setting up GPS signals," then he also took out two small spider like bots, turning it on, it cause them to move on their own, and even took flight, "Spider bots on too. How's it looking Oracle?"

"Got a signal, should be able to catalog your every movement once your partners get here. We're also gonna reroute satellite coverage to get in contact with you once we lose you on our end," Oracle, or more precisely, Barbara spoke.

"Good, Batwomen, start approaching Old Gotham now. My signal will get weak from here on out. Oracle will make sure to keep my GPS signal locked on once I plant them," Peter said as soon as he jumped down into the sewers.

"Heard."

Peter would quickly move through the sewer system; using his acrobatics, his wall crawling, and web swinging to quickly bypass places that either had too much water or barely any room to move with the constant roaches and rats that ran along the ground or pipes of the sewer. Sometimes he would hit dead ends like Alfred said, but then quickly made sure to double time back and go to the next pathways.

He needed to be quick, who knows what this carnage killer got planned.

He was heading deeper and deeper to the sewer system, and from the lenses behind the mask, he saw his HUD indicating that his connection to either the Batcave or Cassandra and Dick was getting further and further away. Luckily, the spider bot's were still able to be of use along with his lenses as they had a mini Wi-Fi system in place. It allows the Batcave to see what he sees, and pick up audio if need be, "Really should come up with a way to avoid this," Peter mention to himself out loud, "Been dealing with it for 12 years and still haven't bothered hatching out the problem with these sewer systems so communication don't have to be faulty," Peter commented to himself when running along the ceiling before launching himself into a tunnel, "And I made sure to have proper channeling in space for god sake!" he would throw out two webs to propel him faster through the tunnels.

Then a slight problem occurred soon after. The thing about these sewer systems of Old Gotham was that it was a maze; easily able to get lost like any other and sometimes having way too many points that allowed paths to diverge to other sections of Gotham sewers.

When swinging ahead, Peter found a huge space, dirty water moving on the ground, steel pipes and steel floors tied to each tunnel. The tunnel part had halted him. He hung upside down as he watched around him, "Great. Lost. Why do criminals like the Gotham sewer system so much?" Peter complained to himself. Letting his feet hold himself on the web line that was strap to the ceiling of the sewer, he shot multiple web lines, each touching the walls that intersected to other pathways, "I know it makes it harder for good guys like me to track you down, but come on!" And he then ties them together, "It's not worth the hassle," with all the webs connected, he lets the webbing go, crouching on the center of the web lines.

He was being the Spider, tracking down criminals like how a spider would track their prey. Waiting, patiently, for a single vibration to occur before him. He made sure to send the two spider bots in other areas of the tunnels just in case. But it didn't sit well for Peter to wait, "With all the technology in the world, people still haven't been able to set up Wi-Fi down here. My spider bot may have it, but then I would need more money and resources for stronger Wi-Fi for communication purposes. Technically, it wouldn't be hard with what we have in the Batcave, but then..I'm gonna need to ask Bruce, something I won't do. Either way, who would even try to build Wi-Fi down here? It's not the subway station, and only workers, thugs, rodents, and giant creatures lurk down here. Honestly, to hell with it, why am I saying I should build it when I can?" Peter asked himself before easily knowing why, "Oh! BECAUSE OF YOU!"

Peter pointed to a rat, swimming nearby and paying him no mind, "AND YOU!"

He pointed to two roaches, surprisingly fighting one another on the surface of the pipes. One of them was able to push the other. Because of the opportunity, the rat swam after it, taking it by the mouth, and started chewing it as soon as it found ground to eat.

Peter put his hands by his mouth, "..I'm so sorry," he then saluted the poor roach, "May you rest in peace, and be a strong food source for master splinter."

It was dark seeing that the rodent here have to fight to survive just as humans. It was a twisted sense of joke because in the end, human or not, survival of the fittest goes around for everyone and everything.

The spider bot would come back, almost tilting in angle out of curiosity, "Nothing of importance going on! Just waiting, and talking to myself, something I'm used to doing…" Peter would then tap the side of his mask to link with his spider bots, a few taps from his arms on the suit, he was able to see what they saw from the lower corner of his lens. They both found a dead end in each different tunnel they went in, having Peter head drop in sulkiness, "I hate waiting..." Peter let out a mouth trumpet noise as he kept waiting for feedback on his webs. He also made sure the audio didn't pick him up as his line of thoughts with Cassandra was starting to seep through from all this waiting, "...Does she really wanna die..? Really be like her mother...? And why haven't I noticed this..? Why..." Peter bowed his head, "...No it was there, with everything she went through..It was there, I...I just didn't want to push it...I didn't want to expose it, but I didn't think it would be that bad...I...Damn it! I should've known better! Should've done better in making sure her own mental health was good...But who am I kidding?" He lifted his head up, "How can I look out for her when I haven't been looking out for myself?" He questions only himself and no one else.

All Peter can feel was not only guilt for himself, but guilt at the fact that he let things slide by him all because he wanted to respect Cassandra space. He should've done something, something that didn't involve him being passive to what's around him. It's been like that for a long time, and he has to be better. Someway, somehow, he has to find a way to be better. But for some reason, he doesn't have a clear way how to do it. The only thing that is clear to him is to keep going and keep trying, no matter what else comes before him.

Peter didn't have to wait too long as he then felt the vibration after minutes of waiting, turning behind him, he didn't move at first as he heard the subway moving along. He sucked under his teeth, his intuition was right not to act on it, "Yeah. Go figure that would happen," shaking his head, he remembered to put a GPS nearby for Cassandra. But then suddenly, he felt a vibration coming from a web line, more south east from where he's at. He again waited, just in case it was a fluke or maybe little rodents climbing onto them. But nothing of the sort happened, and no other vibration occurred on the other strands, "Bingo."

Peter ran along his web line to that specific tunnel. The vibration getting stronger, the sounds of howls, almost like battle-like cries too can be heard. But then he hit a dead end, "No way…Unless," still on top of the web line, he put his ear by the brick wall, still hearing exactly what he could hear just a second ago.

But the word carnage was being thrown around frequently.

He again tosses another GPS in the area, before easily punching his hand through the brick wall. Luckily, his senses weren't going off, meaning no one heard it, and no one was nearby. He tore through it enough so he was able to get through. The sound of carnage was heard more and more, and walking down the dark tunnel with the only light being in front brought a menacing feeling up ahead.

But Peter wasn't frightened, he wasn't scared of who he could face. He has faced scarier people before, some of them not from this earth, some of them even being gods amongst men. So whatever he is going to face, he won't be terrified and he'll face them down.

Either alone or with his partner.

---

Cassandra reached the specific place in Old Gotham, the upper west side where Cletus and his group went through, where Peter is now at, "Cassandra," She looked behind her, seeing Dick's frown, "Let me help."

She wanted to, she really wanted Dick to be part of this again. It was so nice knowing he came back, that he is as strong and graceful as before. But to protect her family, she will do what she must, "Sorry."

She then pressed a button by the wheel, automatically keeping Dick in his seat thanks to the extra seat belts that were placed, trapping his arms and legs, "HEY!" He struggles to let himself out, watching Cassandra getting out, "YOU BOTH NEED ME!" The Batmobile then shut, cutting off any other words Dick wanted to say to her, "Oracle! Alfred?!" He soon realized that she cut him off communication, "No way! When did she have time to do that?" he groaned more in irritation.

It wasn't fair, none of this treatment wasn't fair. Dick then sighed, letting part of his dark hair fall by his eyebrows. He then took a deep breath in and out, getting himself to be calm in the situation he was in.

He'll either find a way out, or he'll have to trust in the two that they won't get into any sort of bigger trouble. Which is why, Dick needed to get out of this just in case, not because of ego or anything of that nature. But simply because it was his duty to look after them.

He's back now, and he needs to be there for his family regardless of how they felt.

And luckily, he was prepared for this. In the palm of his hand he gripped tightly, was a round object of sorts that the end of his thumb ended up pressing.

A hue of blue electricity zapped out. While the Batmobile wasn't affected, the grip that held him in place was. It still latched onto him, but that meant Dick needed to brute force his way out.

With a few grunts, flexing his arms and legs as he pushes hard enough for the shackles to break. A few deep breaths in and out from Dick, he massage his hands, "Can't keep an old bird locked in his cage."

---

Peter watches on what he sees when crawling along the ceiling, staying away from the light that endowed the ground below him. He watches a dozen or so people chanting on the same word.

Carnage.

Carnage.

Carnage.

As one person took on multiple people with relative ease. He punched, elbowed, tossed them all around, and with glee screamed to the air, "COME ON! PROVE TO ME WHY I CHOSEN YOU ALL!" He shouted, with a few features such as his red hair, height, and the craze sadistic look as he taunted his supposed followers with only torn up pants on, "BROTHER'S! SISTER'S! YOU KNOW WHY WE'RE HERE! YOU KNOW WHY YOU CAME! FROM WORDS OF MOUTH! YOU ALL HEARD WHAT I WANT TO BRING TO THE TABLE OF HERE IN GOTHAM!"

"CARNAGE!"

"CARNAGE!"

"CARNAGE!"

This was Cletus Kasady, the carnage killer, the one who has been killing a number of people on specific days, becoming something of the next zodiac killer, the next calendar man, and the person that just seemed like wanted nothing more than Carnage in his wake. Again, to whoever was fighting him, they stood up and tried to work together. But again, he didn't make it easy, his strength and speed out beating them, "THEY SAY GOTHAM IS BECOMING SAFE! THAT ITS TURNING INTO THE TIMES WHEN THE WAYNE'S HAD MORE POWER OVER THIS CITY! AND WE KNOW THE TRUTH RIGHT?!"

"BULLSHIT!"

"BULLSHIT!"

"BULLSHIT!"

"AND THAT'S WHAT WE'RE GONNA DO! SHOW THEM IT'S BEYOND SAVING, THAT ITS RIGHT FOR THE TAKING TO DO WHATEVER WE WANT! AND THE ONLY WAY WE'LL DO IT IS BY CARNAGE!"

'I heard enough of this crap,' no longer gonna continue to watch idly of him boasting his strength or hearing him talk, Peter leapt down, stunning those around him of his sudden appearance. It caused a chain reaction of them backing up when seeing the Spider in person, "Blah! Blah! Blah Sounds like a typical anarchist. How about being original? Oh wait, you stole calendar man and the zodiac killer shtick!"

What Peter found a little odd was how unsurprised Cletus was when he appeared, only that his smile widened, "As I live and breathe, Spider-Man!" He opens his arms wide, "Welcome!"

Peter stood up, the distance between them wasn't far if they wanted to fist fight here and now. But since he was talking, Peter would use that to his advantage since it would give Cassandra more time to reach his locations. He doesn't even know if everyone here is a complete meta, but clearly Cletus was, "You knew I would come?" Peter asked, keeping his fist clench, ready for anything.

Cletus crackled, a laughter that was howling with thrill, excitement, and even bloodlust, "Because you protect the innocent! And when you can't, you'll do everything to hunt down those that need paying!" he would then slowly walk around Peter, "Justice runs in your vain, perhaps vengeance too while we're at it!"

"Vengeance is another person's demographic," Peter kept watch of him every time he walked in a circle around him, "I rather put you behind bars, or better yet, back to Arkham where you should be."

"Try then! COME ON!" Cletus roared, jumping at him. Peter saw it coming, but his eyes slightly widened at the fact his senses didn't go off from his attack. Still, with his reflexes, he bent his back far enough to dodge and let his foot catch him, sticking on his bare chest to where he aggressively slammed him to the ground, now having top advantage, "S-strong! Way stronger than I thought!"

Peter was trying to keep him in place, wrestling control of his wrist as he didn't look like its counter attack hurt him, "I get that a lot. Now! Who experimented on you? Or better yet, how much did you pay to get you and everyone here a boost?" Peter interrogated.

"Who said…We did?" In sudden surprise, Peter saw half of Cletus' face morphed into red and a tinge of black skin, with huge jagged, white eyes, and mouth that were replaced with sharp teeth.

Peter was then kicked to the ceiling, hard and fast that he couldn't recover and suffered the blow, "Ugh!" he grunted in pain, but not letting it sway him, he saw Cletus jumping at him, and Peter flipped himself to land a kick straight on the top of his head.

Both taking a blow, landing on all fours as they eye each other; one in enthusiasm and the other in shock. Peter thought he wouldn't ever see what he saw, nor another version of a monster he faced down several months ago, "V-venom?!"

"No…" Cletus let his body morph, letting the symbiotic suit cover all his body, the red and black overtaking him, making more like a monster, the monster Peter once fought but also at one point wore. Still on all fours; his hands were replaced by bigger, and sharp claws nicking the ground, his tongue was long just as his teeth all were razor sharp like his claws, and now he had both jagged huge white eyes, "CARNAGE!"

Chapter 9: Evening the odds

Cassandra was moving through the tunnel, following the same ways Peter went. Unlike Peter, she would use a gadget that sent out a strong wire that allowed her to propel herself forward to cover distance faster than running on the dirty waters, or whatever ground she could find.

She kept watch of the GPS tracker Peter put up that her gauntlet showcased; multitasking on her maneuverability, where she's going, and whom she may go up against, "Close," she murmured to herself. She wasn't too far off from Peter's location, but she still had some ways to go.

"Batw…oman! D…o you r…ead?!"

Oracle came on her end, static on her end due to Cassandra being lower and away from the cave, "Read."

"Spider-Man nee….ds… now! He's fig…thing….to venom!"

Behind the cowl, her basil eyes widen, "Venom…?!" Static ended up cutting off their communication. The power Oracle was using wasn't enough to keep a stable flow of communication between them.

It meant she would be on her own once more, but not completely, "Need to move!"

She pressed a button, causing the line launcher to ignite a boost that propelled her forward with speed.

---

Peter was sent hurling to a wall, causing a huge crack behind him, and sending debris down to his head that he ended up dodging out of the way. Not catching a breath, this monster was on him, not caring how battered his suit was becoming, when he found his mark the damage was enough that the pieces of tech that protected Peter were being torn apart by Cletus.

Or more specifically, the man who now calls himself Carnage laughed at the mere sight of him being in pain. His laughter was the kind of laughter Peter could hear in his nightmares, watching movies, tv shows, and from the countless villains that were similar to his unstoppable form that would kill whoever for the fun of it.

Yet, it's been a while since Peter ever faced this type of ferocious monster that was happy, ecstatic at getting the chance to tear him apart. Peter rolled out of the way, horizontally flipping himself away from the attack while weaving, sliping and ducking every attack Carnage was throwing at him. This fight was dangerous from the very fact that somehow, his spider sense wasn't going off from facing against Carnage, but Peter had fights where his spider sense proved useless, so this wasn't no different.

Years of skills and experience in the art of hand to hand combat will pull through.

Carnage attacks, while telegraphing, were also unpredictable that kept Peter on his toe. He would bounce from wall to wall, trying to land an attack, square up in front of Peter to throw and swipe a million different attacks, using his claws and fist. But try being the right word, as Peter dodged them with ease, countering his every move with punches and kicks that had left Carnage stunned for just a second. Again, Peter can see Carnage attacks, with their experience in fighting being so far apart from each other that Peter would take advantage with ease.

But even with skills and experience on his side, the terms of strength, speed, durability was a whole other thing. Carnage would catch Peter's attack, his grin glisten from the opportunity at hand, "Faster spider," now having both hands on his bicep, he toss Peter over him hard, enough for him to yelp in pain, and morphed his other hand into a scythe, "FASTER"

Peter moved his shoulder out of the way, under-hooking his arm while quickly moving to where he wanted to be since the symbiote arms didn't provide the firm grip he needed. Thanks to Carnage's poor position from his attack, Peter would also under-hook his leg around the arm, and the other around the neck where he flipped him off to the air. Not wasting a moment, Peter leapt in the air from the mere strength of his hands, clocking him in the jaw with his two feet that sent his teeth flying. He made sure to reposition himself with a flip, and send out two webs onto his chest where he twirls his right to the wall with strength that made part of the sewer tremble. Again, he wasn't done, he can't be done here with this kind of threat. Peter pulled him once his feet landed on the ground, he struck an uppercut and an overhead strike to crash Carnage down.

But Carnage tanks that, laughing as his hands morph back to his five fingers, and landing straight on his feet. He would grab the webline that Peter still had clutch on both hands, pulling him for two hammerfist to be sent driven upwards to the chin, and with Peter floating in the air for a split second, Carnage threw his own sort of webline that was related to tendrils in red, and slam him face first to the ground, again, causing the sewer to shake from their strength being put out.

And the crowd love the earth shattering fight they were bear witness to.

Peter felt the migraine kicking in, felt his body being in pain, it's something he's used to, but it's been a while since he felt this type of pain lurking throughout his body. But he had no time to feel, as Carnage pulled him close to him, "The fun's just getting started Spider!" Groaning, growling in pain, Peter was taking for a ride where he was spinning right around Carnage's head.

With his head pounding, and the world getting dizzy, Peter couldn't let this go on, 'Come on...I'M BETTER THAN THIS!' Peter grab his web shooter, twisting the little dial where he saw from his HUD, that the web shooter was changing modes to a sort of creative slot, 'Doesn't matter how strong he is,' with the velocity of the speed, he threw out a webbing that morph into a giant fist, 'I'm not gonna be a punching bag!' Peter let the fist rip, using the speed and decking Carnage in the face. He was tossed aside, but recovered to the wall and shook off his dizziness the best he could. Yet he only had a second till Carnage would try to tangle him with another tendril. Peter moved, disintegrating the giant fist webbing, and curving, twisting it into a huge pinball, where he flipped and slammed it onto Carnage's head.

Carnage would catch it, but Peter thought ahead, flipping off the ball to Carnage behind where he quickly kicked him behind, and then with the distance he had, treat the huge pinball like a wrecking ball and smack it at Carnage. It knocked him off balance, but he still was trying to close the distance, only serving to continue getting hit by the pinball that Peter twisted and turned. Carnage had no way of catching into close distance since Peter danced, attacked, weaved away from not only his own pinball, whatever attacks Carnage tried to throw out.

If anything, Carnage was in awe at seeing how masterful Peter was in combat, "You're so amazing!" He chuckled, and just before the pinball would hit him, he struck it dead on with a head bump, breaking the webbing, "That I don't mind getting hit to learn from you!"

More quicker than him, Carnage morphs his own hands into a pinball, doing the same movement as Peter had done. Peter would dodge, corkscrew, aerial flip his way, getting close enough to strike Carnage; his speed, strength was going further and further, not even the pinball could hit Peter, as he could hear the tendril coming at him, allowing it to hit Carnage. Switching modes as he backflips from the pinball attack, Peter throws out his regular webbings to pull Carnage back to him, and Peter unleashes a ruthless assault on him..

Hitting fast.

Hitting strong.

Peter couldn't stop.

Not when a threat like this was standing before him.

When that wasn't enough, he slipped under Carnage strike, grabbing him behind, and suplexing him to the ground, "YAH!" causing a web-like crack with how forceful he did it. Getting top mount, he still continued punching him left and right, 'Don't stop! Don't stop!' Left and right, left and right, more and more till, Carnage's head was getting buried through the ground, 'Not until he's done for! Don't stop Peter!' Even though it had been awhile since he let loose, he again had to make sure to put all the force his body can dish out, 'Don't give him the time of day to recover! Stay winning!' Due to the increased aggression, he forgot that he can't rely on his spider sense, therefore, it gave Carnage the opening to let out a tendril from his chest, piercing through Peter's costume through his shoulders and lower abdomen, "AH!"

The pain worsened, so was his scream when Carnage stood up, lifting himself off the ground thanks to his tendrils, "..Your good spider! Better than watching from afar! I guess that's why Gotham always tends to bring bad publicity to you compared to the bat's," Carnage then moves closer to Peter face, "When will you get it that they'll never trust you! That just like before, when you wore daddy! Or the countless times you went on a manhunt, Gotham fears.. YOU! NOT THE BAT'S! SO WHY DON'T YOU EMBRACE IT AND IT BRING THIS CITY TO IT'S KNEE?!"

Peter's hand clutches on the tendrils, "...Because I'm not like you," grunted, Peter headbutted Carnage, staggering him, but also using his feet on Carnage to push himself out of the tendrils. Still holding onto the tendril, Peter let out a roar, bringing him up in the air, sending him flat to ground, then swinging him around before jumping in the air again, where he sent him crashing.

Landing in the center, he knew Carnage wasn't done, and Peter felt himself was hurting and needed to use this time to recover. Switching back to his creative mode and keeping himself standing, Peter bandages up where he was stabbed. He can still fight, can still go the distance, but those stab wounds from tendril weren't no joke, 'Need to stay ahead of the curve...My suit is strong as I design, but isn't strong enough to take it, not like Eddie's own...Wait... Did he say daddy?' Peter questions, recalling what Carnage had told him in his fight.

Due to the fight, adrenaline, his heart running a thousand miles per second, and the much that was going on, Peter forgot he had a crowd around him chanting for Kasady, "HE DOESN'T STAND A CHANCE!"

"SHOW HIM THE WAY!"

"MAKE HIM SUFFER!"

"CARNAGE!"

"CARNAGE!"

"CARNAGE!"

Carnage pushes himself off from the ground, "YOZAH!" He shook his head left and right and turned to Peter, "Jeez! This guy is no joke!" He pointed at Peter as his attention went to his follower's, "ARE YOU ALL ENTERTAINED?!" Carnage asked his followers, who all answered with confident yes, shouting his name, and roaring with the passion that upside Gotham could hear if listened carefully.

"Oh great," Peter once more fiddled with his web shooter dial. Instead of either the creative mode that allowed his webbing to be used to create various weapons, or the regular webbing, he switched up to what was designated as sonic blaster, "A gladiator quote, really?" Carnage and his followers ended up laughing at Peter's query, "I guess you all are corny huh?"

"Like you're any better! But I did so happen to pick off quite a few things from you Spider," Carnage responded.

"So I saw," Peter then walked around him, with Carnage doing the same, both eyeing one another, awaiting for their battle to commence, "I mean the murder, the followers, and the suit itself. All seems to be copied from a lot of other people."

"Oh! But I am something you never faced Spider!"

Peter scoffed, "Trust me, you're nothing new compared to the countless people I fought."

"Yet I'm someone that will do what others couldn't. Goblin failed, Joker died, and daddy ran away like a bitch."

Peter's eyes narrowed behind his mask, "And seeing you just said that, there's no way in hell Eddie would willingly give you a suit like that."

Carnage would start walking backwards, arm crossed, but smile still on, his teeth all but healed, and it unnerved Peter how he was amusing their conversation amongst the followers that awaited their fight, "And what if he did? What if he wanted someone to continue what he couldn't?! What he lacks the will to do?!"

"Eddie might've been a selfish asshole that hurt people around him just to get what he wanted, let alone me," Peter stopped his walking, getting low on the ground as he had enough of the talking, "But he wouldn't give his strength to a psycho like you, not when he caused his own wife to die because of his selfishness!"

"And that's why he is and will always be weak!" Carnage got low like the person he admired, his claws digging through the ground as he awaited to pounce on the Spider, "He had the strength, the power to escape Ravenscroft! But he chose to suffer instead!"

'So that's where he disappeared too? Why does that place sound familiar?' Peter prodded on the new information. It's something he'll have to do more research later after he somehow takes down Carnage, 'Gotta buy Cassandra more time. My body can take the pain, so as long as I'm careful what he throws at next,' the webbing mended the damage, but he would need more than that for it to heal. Now Peter had to do some damage control otherwise he won't last as long as he wanted too, "And therefore, you wanna kill me. Just like ole daddy tried to do months ago!"

Carnage again howled in laughter, enough so he held his chest just as his army's did the same. It was so twisted seeing all these people, including Cletus laughing at him, almost mocking him. It felt like a nightmare Peter was in once more, a nightmare he can't wake up, but fights out of. And it didn't help that any of these followers could jump in, or worse, get killed without Cletus needing to lift a finger. How does Peter even be able to save either of them from this monster if it came down to it? He sure as hell doesn't have a faint of a clue, but he has an idea, an he needs to make sure it can work, "Fuck no. I'm gonna make sure you become part of us. To become one of us," he then opened his hands wide while crouching, "Of course I have to make you suffer first, but, you will be part of my family, and that way, CARNAGE WILL RAIN ON GOTHAM AND FURTHER BEYOND!"

"Over. My. Dead. Body," one hand grip, his eyes behind his mask focus, his breathing control, his body is in pain, but Peter is ready for another round against Carnage.

"Sadly! I'm gonna need you alive, SPIDER!"

And then, they sprinted towards one another, like titans going at it.

Expecting to be hit by a web shooter, Carnage didn't expect to be hit by not only loud frequency, but a low res of a sonic blast that kept him back just a bit, "UGH!" Kasady's symbiotic suit leeched a bit off him, enough where Peter can see a bit of the psychopath.

Not wanting to shorten out the function of his web shooter due to the high velocity of power he was putting out in his small device, Peter uses this chance to go on the offensive now, "Aww! Don't like that?!" Peter sent a flurry of attacks, body and head kicks that Carnage had to block because his symbiote was trying to stabilize itself. Peter would quickly switch to his webbing, throwing it out, pulling him to close him in for more strikes.

Strikes that no normal person can take.

Yet when Peter went for a spinning kick, he didn't think Carnage would recuperate as fast as he did. He caught Peter's leg in mid air, "Great thing about being my own child… IS THAT I DON'T HAVE TO BE WEAKEN LIKE DADDY!" Peter felt his claws protrude through his legs, yelling, he would use his free leg to deck him hard the chin, and due to him still holding his free leg while tanking his blow, Peter let loose dozen of kicks; ranging from hitting his temple, forehead, top of his, neck, and chest, before ending it with the ball of his feet striking his chin that let him go.

Peter rolled on the floor, he would look to get up, but Carnage stabbed his claws through his back, "AHH!" He screamed out, feeling the claws stab at integral parts of his bones, fracturing them, and close enough to hit certain vital parts in Peter.

But Carnage didn't stop there, he quickly pulled out his claws, taking an elbow from Peter, but threw a tendril to keep him latching on the ground, "DON'T WORRY SPIDER! YOUR NOT GONNA DIE! BUT YOU WILL FEEL EVERY INCH OF PAIN!" Now having his body turn to where his frontal side was at, Carnage began swiping his claws left and right, from head to body, "GLORIOUS PAIN!"

Peter would use his forearms to block some since the tendril kept his body on the ground, he even able was to weave away some of his swipes from his face he wouldn't be able to do it a lot. he felt every second of the claws digging through his suit, digging through his skin, and each time his mouth let out the pain he felt, Carnage laughed, his followers laugh, everyone laughed as he was in pain.

It was almost as if they wanted him to give in, give in to pain, give in to the chaos they want, the carnage they want. And as Carnage managed to swipe his lenses, showcasing the hazel eyes piercing through, he saw the clear, determined expression of a hero that can't and won't give up, "RAH!" With all his might, Peter punches Carnage off him, and seeing he won't have time to tear apart the tendril, he uses his web shooters once more, switching mode to a fire base, destroying the tendril, and the second Carnage leapt to him.

Peter used one part of his web shooters to release fire, something Carnage was able to dodge, but still took a bit of it, "AH! DAMN IT!" The second Peter saw Kasady's symbiote screeching, not liking the fire, he was ready to fight back, but his followers captured him, holding him back from attacking him. Peter felt each of their strength was similar to Kasady, but he shook them off, but they kept leeching onto, and as he shook more off, more captured him, till all of them was on top of him. If it wasn't for Carnage using his tendril to push them all off of Peter, from left and right, and away from the center of their fight, "NO! NO ONE INTERFERES!" Peter quickly stood back up. Despite his knees buckling, every inch of his body in pain, his suit being battered, sliced to pieces, as blood dripped on the floor, he was still standing, and his hands were still ready to fight as Carnage walked towards Peter, "HE'S MINE!"

Suddenly, a batarang was caught by Carnage's hands. For a brief second, he inspected it and before he could make a comment about it, an explosion occurred, causing fire and burns that made him howl in pain.

Cassandra came onto the scene, back to back with her partner just as when the crowd rounded around Carnage and the duo, "You sure...Took your time," Peter jested, but also stifled in pain from his joke.

"Sorry. You ok?" Cassandra asks in concern, as both watch around the army getting ready to do something as Cletus controls his symbiote that howls and screams from the fire that hurt him.

"Been better," Peter again would modulate his web shooter; switching from fire blaster to creative webbing. He began wrapping his hands, arms, chest, back, mending the bleeding, but also, forming his hands in boxing wrap, "Carnage doesn't like fire, he can tank loud noise but it still disturbs him for a little opening. And every single one here has a piece of him."

"Making them strong."

"Exactly. Be ready."

"Always."

Carnage got control of himself, huffing and puffing in pain, but better now as he stared at the two partners, "OK THEN! EVERYONE INTERFERE!"

The army of Carnage followers ran at the two heroes, and the two heroes did what they did best.

Fight back, against all odds, evening the odds.

---

Bruce saw a lot of things when he was Batman, the only Bat, the leader of his family he adopted just as it once adopted him. He's gone up against the likes of small crooks, sociopath types to the psychopath types, to even further beyond with people with special abilities, aliens, and god-like beings. Sometimes, they were alone as he stood against them, but other times, he wasn't alone.

He had friends.

He had teammate's.

He had family.

He had people he could trust to help him win the battles.

And most importantly, he wasn't alone. Not how when he started his vendetta against the unjust.

Bruce saw a lot of things, and this was no different as he watched Peter and Cassandra fight not only this creature that was similar to a darker variant that Peter once wore, and once fought. But now as he fought something more viscous, possibly stronger, it came with new territories involving a small legion of army that seemed to be power by a connection of sorts.

A symbiotic connection.

His steel blue eyes never left the screen, his scowl only seemed to grow, his hands, body, it all egg to do something, to do anything. Peter and Cassandra were holding their own for sure; his powers, her skills, his intelligence, her adaptability, and they're will that they both developed over the years means they can go toe to toe with meta-humans or alien-like beings that would present more of a challenge for a regular person.

But that didn't let the nasty feeling in his stomach go away. The pit of stomach that wanted to, no, needed to become what he always was. He wanted to be it again, his true self, the Bat, to fight against the injustice that yearns to take over Gotham once more. He wants to be of use, he doesn't want to be useless, he wants to do what's necessary, and most of all.

He wants to protect everyone.

But he can't, because he knows himself. He crosses the line, and in doing so, he'll do it again. He can't ever trust himself the same way after the damage he caused not only to the symbol, his city, the rogue's he fought against, but his comrades, and his family.

He can't do it, because he wants to be better.

"Alfred, how's our connection?" Barbara asked as she wanted to provide what assistance she can to the Bat and the Spider.

"Becoming stable as we speak thanks to the satellite coverage. I presume we're gonna borrow Peter's spider bots to give them both cover?"

"Exactly so! His little toy's have various utilities to annoy these sons of bitches."

Bruce took notice of movements coming from one of Peter's gsp. Smart thing he did with those devices is that it also works as a way to detect whoever was moving around nearby. Now Bruce was running a million things in his head of who could pass by these gps signals. He knows Cassandra is already on the battlefield, so who else could it be? It was then Bruce's eyes slightly widened. Barbara got a glance of his small shock expression, "I know, I see it too. But you and I both know Bruce that he doesn't like to be a part of the sidelines. No matter what happened to him. He doesn't want to be useless when he can do something."

She had a point. But it didn't make it easier knowing his first son is out there, going to face the worst of the worst once again. But he gets it, he gets the feeling of being useful rather than useless.

All Bruce can do is hope he doesn't get hurt like the last time.

---

This is what Cassandra wanted, wanted for the past year. A fight, a challenge, one that she has to face that can get her killed if she doesn't move correctly. She hated feeling this; the rush, the excitement, knowing full well she's getting exactly what she wanted, what she urned for. A challenge, a fight, a whole array of people she has to take down, and with all of them being stronger than the average person thanks to Carnage.

She doesn't need to hold back as much.

A punch here.

A Kick here.

Moving. Always moving.

Weaving past all these foe's as she unleashed her unique tactics on them. Either moving around offensively, or using their body against them by taking them down, tossing them to one another, essentially, using them as a weapon against their own allies.

If not that, using her gadgets such as batarangs being flung around her, hitting their targets. Using smoke to give her a breathing room, attacking through it thanks to her cowl having a system to see through the smoke with ease. This allowed her to perform more grabbable move's; suplexing a person, moving quickly to dash herself onto a person leg, taking them down with an elbow strike that did damage thanks to her spiked gauntlet, and continued to move as she uses her bat claw to pull an enemy to keep her free flowing combat ongoing.

And it helped that Peter would have her back; stopping whoever tried to hit her blindside, or overall, having crowd control necessary as he was also busy taking on Carnage. This is what Cassandra trained for, this was her duty, and she wasn't alone, "Covering your six guys!"

Oracle and Alfred were taking control of Peter's spider bots, zooming around and blasting people around them including Carnage, who seemed to be agitated, "Of course you would bring more friends!"

He would try to destroy the spider bots, but taking a note from Cassandra a second ago, Peter grabs Carnage by his waistline, suplexing him back head first to the ground, "That's the beauty of me!" He flipped himself off Carnage, bouncing from enemy to enemy as his bounce pushed them to one another, "I think ahead!" Landing behind Cassandra, his foot teep a person that tried to come at her side view, allowing her for the back of her hand to dent them in their nose, and perform a spinning kick that sent them crashing to the floor. They weren't done with the army; both switching enemies back and forth, working together, being the entity of yin and yang.

Being the Bat and the Spider. Gotham's protector for both night and day.

Peter kept up his end by controlling the area once more. Using his webbing to trap some, pull them to others, pull them to him or away from Cassandra to dent them with his flashy kicks, or changing it by switching the dial on his web shooters where he brought out a long sledge hammer that allowed him to hit and piece of up the army without him getting hit by their attacks. Along with that, Cassandra controlled the one on one fair; dishing out fast attacks, using all of her 8 limbs to its fullest advantage, till she switched it up at the last second to focus on Carnage. She saw him leaping to him, and she ran in front of a person and used him as a spring, and met Carnage with a piercing, overhead elbow that dent his temple. Knocking him down as they stood apart from each other, "Ah! Bitch!"

"STAY AWAY FROM HIM!" She roared and came rushing at him.

"Not a chance in hell!" She shouted back, while laughing at the same time when getting his two morphed scythe ready.

Cassandra slid under the scythe, then rolled backwards to kick him from behind, but he blocked it with his scythe, and tried slicing her vertically while she was on the floor. Again, Cassandra rolled to avoid her attacks. Like any other person she fought, she can see their own movements no matter if their body is not human. This allowed her to easily dodge Carnage attacks, however, he was far durable into taking her blows, she knew this, which was why she didn't outright attack, "STAND FUCKING STILL BATGIRL! RAHH!" He would get blasted by the spider bot's, but he easily swept them away with his scythe, destroying them, "Annoying pests!"

He then jumped to avoid Cassandra's flying knee. With Cassandra noticing his frustration, this allowed her for the opening she needed. With a few taps of her gauntlet, it opened up a weaponry that allowed her to let loose a stream of fire when quickly firing behind her without looking. Carnage's huge white eyes widen, using his tendril to avoid it and landing away from her. He would then wag his finger's, smirking at being able to dodge her surprise attack, "Nah ah uh! I got something similar to Spider's tingle!" Hearing that only served to make her growl. She ended up having to worry about the army very briefly, striking and taking them down, with Peter taking care of the rest. Once back flipping away, she turned her attention back to Carnage, flipping in the air and throwing multiple batarangs his way, "Ooo! Bat toys! Gonna take a page out of your book Spider!" He dodge all just by sliping his head, or moving his body, but overall staying in the same position. And then he would catch the last batarang by his now morphed finger tips, "Ha! Not like that time he caught a bullet but clo-Er?"

Carnage looked at the batarang blinking red, but the second he noticed it, Cassandra had it already blowing up, "Ahhh! Damn it!" This was Cassandra's chance. Due to arrogance and over-reliance on his suit, she was gonna take advantage. With the suit trying to keep it together, Cassandra let loose a barrage of attacks; each limb hitting him with everything she got.

There was no mercy on someone that wanted to take away Peter, to take away the person that means the world to her, and she won't let it happen, not when she still has so much work to do, so much more to learn in how to preserve a relationship. Each strike let loose her grunting, to the point even Peter could've heard her anger and growl coming through her strikes. But Kasady was able to manage the suit, catching her fist, and putting her into a kneeling position where his strength triumphs over her. She would look to use her gauntlet to let loose a stream of flames, but Carnage caught it, tearing the machine apart by crushing it, almost crushing her hand, "AHH!" She yelled in pain.

Peter saw this, his eyes widened both inside the mask, but also the one that didn't have the lenses or mask to protect part of his face, "BATWOMEN!" This moment of distraction caused some of the army to rapidly hit Peter, even a huge number of them looked to tackle him onto loads of them piled on top of him.

Carnage couldn't help but laugh at having Peter's girlfriend in a kneeling position, and how the fact his army is making sure to keep him where he's at to watch him dangle her fate in his hands, "Watch on Spider! You're about to witness another dead girlfriend coming your way! HAHAHAHAHA!" Carnage didn't care if he couldn't see whether she was frightened of him, all he needed to do was slice her head off and then it'll be one step closer to having Peter by his side.

Yet once he mentioned that, once he brought up that specific topic, something he spent years trying to move on, trying to look at the fact it wasn't his fault that she died, but always come to the same conclusion that it was his fault, and he could've done better. Once Carnage brought that up, something in Peter lit up like a Christmas tree, a fire, a rage he's aware he has, but only when certain villain's push a certain button.

In doing so, Peter pushed, no matter how much of his army was on top of him; 10,20,30, and possibly 60 of them, he didn't care. Cassandra's life was on the line, and he won't let another person die under his watch, not when he's still breathing and kicking, "NO FREAKING WAY!" Peter pushed till he was crouching on his feet, "YOU'LL HURT HER!" His eyes glared with heat on Carnage, "RAHHHHHH!" Like an explosion, every single member of Carnage army was thrown off Peter, "GET AWAY FROM HER YOU PSYCHOPATH!" Like he wasn't hurting, bleeding, or dealing with a massive amount of migraine, Peter launched forward with a single powerful leap, roaring like a man out for blood as not only his leap caused the ground to crack, but the sewer to shake once more.

And he laid a swift punch, cracking Carnage jaw line, breaking all his teeth, even twisting his head where it likely and should've, broken his neck, and then he was sent flying through the sewer system. Huffing and puffing, he made sure Cassandra was ok, and she was, quickly getting up to her feet and standing right behind him as the army they kept fighting, kept getting back up, "I'm almost out of energy supply that I can't produce another flame nor sonic blast," Peter mention, as he took out a small cartridge's from his belt that allowed the use of his web fluid, replacing it for a fresh batch, "I'll still have enough webbing to use, but that's about it."

"Can't use gauntlet," She brought up with both her gauntlet's being crushed, but her hands weren't.

"Then we'll need to find an opening, one where I can generate enough sound and flames to disrupt them all."

"I got the sound."

"Then I got the heat."

As they nodded, Carnage came through, adjusting his neck that wasn't really snapped, but made it seem like it was. His symbiote was loose like liquid, therefore his real bone's weren't affected, "Holy fuck Spider! So it is true you can go toe to toe with Superman!"

"False rumor," Peter got low on the ground, the usual stance he favors, "I had help from others and even when he was mind controlled."

"Who the fuck cares?! This!" He pointed to him, "This is why I need you by my side! Together, no one can stop the carnage we can do together!"

"Talk is cheap," Cassandra stood tall, readying her fist from head to body, her knee's bent, the traditional flexible style she favors compared to Peter, "Come on!"

Carnage sighs and puts his hands by his waist, "Your girlfriend is such a party pooper that I can't wait to kill her."

"Over-"

"Yea yea! Dead body, but it's not gonna be yours's Spider. Now..." His claws came out once more, "Where were we?"

Carnage would dodge something being thrown at him, an escrima stick implanted on the floor before it released its own high intensity sounds that left everyone shaking and disturbed besides Peter, Cassandra, and even Carnage to a point. His suit tanked it, but this allowed Dick Grayson to hop on his back, stinging him with another escrima stick that electrified him "We were getting to the good part!"

Both being astounded and fearful of seeing Dick's presence, they couldn't let this opportunity fly by. Switching one of his web shooters to fire mode, Peter be lined up to Carnage, spraying him with enough fire that had him, his suit, howling and screeching in pain. Once Dick hopped off him, Cassandra would use Peter's back as a spring, leaping into the air with two batrangs, and digging into the suit while performing a drop kick that caused an explosion.

Kasady growled, yelled, and shrank on the floor as the symbiote needed to do its best to keep itself in proper shape. The fire irritated it so much that it affected Kasady just as much.

Not a time to rest, all three of them handle the army together, "Shouldn't be here!" Cassandra said to Dick as she fought side by side with him.

"And you know I have to be here!" Dick responded, decking one, two, and three with a quick succession attack with one of his escrima sticks. He was quite similar to Peter in terms of acrobatics; dodging, leaping, using his legs mostly, but also even being adjacent to Cassandra with how his strikes were, and how his grappling was.

Peter landed by the two, the trio being wrapped into a group with each person taking out their sides of the army. They were all going down more smoothly thanks to Dick's quick thinking, "At the same time! We don't want to see wha-"

"IT WON'T COME TO THAT!" Dick yelled out in agony at hearing the same thing over and over about what if, or will happen to him if he keeps doing this. He took out that irritation on the people in front of him; not holding back his strikes, throwing them at one another, and kicking with such force it push them to loads of others. This strength didn't went unnoticed to the Bat and the Spider. With his army down, not being able to take the strikes or the loud intensity of the nose, the trio stared at Kasady who was still trying to keep his symbiote stabilized, "I promise I won't let that happen to me again…"

Kasady hated seeing the position he was in, that he got careless in his pursuit of both toying with the Bat, but also trying to destroy the Spider spirit so he could join him, "No… I WON'T GO DOWN ALONE LIKE THIS!" He screamed, both in monstrous tone, and human tone due his symbiote not fully covering him..

Carnage sent multiple tendrils at the trio heroes; each one of them dodging, moving since the tendrils can reach long distances. He made sure to redirect them, having each tendrils coming out through his chest and not just his arms. With Peter being the closet, he hit Carnage with more of his fire capabilities before clubbing him with his now webbed shape baseball bat The suit got agitated as Carnage tried to swipe at Peter with his morph scythe. Dick was up next; he grab the one escrima stick stuck on the floor, activating the other stick to the same high pitch noise, sending both of his escrima sticks up in the air, then kicking both of them into Carnage's body where it automatically stop the high pitch noise, but switch to electrifying his system.

The shock stagnated him, bringing him more to his knees, "GAH!" Not wasting the chance with the lack of tendrils being thrown around, Peter got close, applying a corkscrew spin while avoiding an attack from him and managing to him as well with the ball of his feet, and again, clubbing him right under his chin with the web sledgehammer he just spun out. Being low on the ground, Cassandra ran towards Peter, gesturing to him for a little help. She got ready with a few dozen of her batrangs in her hands. Peter would use his webbing to tug her back, spinning her around with force, and then threw her at Kasady, throwing multiple batarangs, and digging a few into his suit where she leapt off, and ignited another explosion, "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"

The explosion made him bounce around, left and right till he was slumped on the floor. The symbiote howled in pain, Kasady howled in agony as he too felt the tremendous burn. Just as Kasady was trying to stand up, rise to fight back, Cassandra put her boot on his back, stopping him. She wanted to do more, cause him pain just from the fact of what he almost did to her if it wasn't for Peter's indomitable will and strength.

But then, she looked at Peter, who looked back at her, and even at Dick, and it's when she had to realize that she won't let herself cross down that line. She can't, she won't, not if it meant making the same mistake as Bruce had done

It was all said than done, but then suddenly, Peter's spider sense went alive for once, head turning to the ceiling knowing something was gonna hit, "MOVE!"

Suddenly, a higher intensity of a sonic pitch came through, but a second afterwards, a blast was sent coming through the ceiling at Cassandra. She was only able to avoid it thanks to Peter web pulling her to him. This person reveals herself from the top above, looking to save Kasady from being arrested by the trio. Dick grabs his escrima stick that fell on the floor after Cassandra was attacked, and would have proceeded with an offensive move if this woman hadn't hit first. She sent a sonic wave at him, then to Peter and Cassandra before they could get up. She put pressure on her ability, it coming through both hands, and her mouth. Peter was the only one strong enough to resist, protecting Cassandra for a moment before he tossed her away from the attack. While not being directly assaulted by the sonic wave like Peter, Cassandra tried to fight off the sound wave trying to bust her ear drum since the cowl provided some protection.

But Dick ended up suffering the most, clutching his ear, "AHHH!" He screamed in pain. Compared to his own, it wasn't designed to hurt him but people who couldn't take the specific frequency his stick could put out.

And Peter saw him, saw his ears bleeding, seeing him in pain once more, "NO!" Peter mustered whatever strength he had left inside him, and launched himself at the woman that was hurting his family. Easily seeing the attack coming, she ended up blasting Peter through another section of Old Gotham's sewer system just before he could do anything, "Carnage! We need to go now!"

Being somewhat affected by the sonic wave, and still reeling from the burn, Carnage hesitated when seeing his army lying down on the ground, unconscious, "NO! NOT WITHOUT MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS SHRIEK!"

"YOU HAVE ME AND YOU'LL GET MORE! NOW MOVE! THE SPIDER WILL BE BACK ANY SECOND!" She said, making note that her sonic wave did enough damage to the rest of the group but Peter can still come back and take them down.

Carnage hated the position he was in, but if he needs to sacrifice another family just to keep going, then he'll do it. He couldn't let the Bat win, he couldn't even let the hero he so loves win. He needed to win, not them, "...Apologies brothers and sisters," With a snap of his fingers, Carnage would leap to where Shriek was, "But a sacrifice must be made..." They both disappeared, with Carnage able to reciprocate for him to escape. With the sound wave stopped, Cassandra and Dick were now getting their head wrapped around what just happened.

And as Peter came swinging from under the sewer they were in, he noticed everyone screamed, everyone of Kasady's arms were wide awake, crying out for help as their brain's were coming undone. Knowing now what was killing them, Peter acted fast, "BATWOMEN! SONIC BATARANG AT THE HIGHEST SETTINGS!" He yelled out, while configuring his web shooters back to sonic mode. Cassandra nodded, shaking off the amount of damage Shriek did to her she whipped out a few sonic batarangs, putting them all to the highest settings, and dishes them to the ground, "COVER DICK'S EAR'S!"

She did so, providing him with ear buds just when the sonic batarangs released a devastating sound wave that could destroy a normal person's ear drums. And Peter released an array of sonic waves on his end in the area, moving around, making sure it was enough to destroy a piece of the symbiote. He knows from fighting Carnage that he wasn't as affected to sonic waves as Venom, but dousing it with large amounts of sonic waves to small bits of him should do the trick. Peter grunted, feeling his ears were on fire as he was in the epicenter of the sonic waves.

But he pushes through the pain, pushes through the amount of damage he had taken, the blood that left his body from his fight, he pushes through all that to save everyone who doesn't deserve it.

And it did the trick, while the army suffered a semi stroke and their ears being plunged out, they no longer were suffering from the stroke attack. Once the sonic batarangs outlive their usefulness, and even Peter web shooters combusted in the process of the large amount of usage he had to put in today, Peter let out a sigh of relief, "...Jeez," He turn to Cassandra, who helped Dick up, "What a night... Right?"

Cassandra didn't answer, quickly rushing to Peter as he was about to collapse. She caught him, even Dick in his somewhat dizzy state, went to help Peter from falling. All the adrenaline Peter system was flushed out, and now he was feeling every part of his body in pain "Yes. What a night."

Dick couldn't help but having a small smirk, "AND YOU TWO WANTED TO DO THIS ALONE!" Dick shouted, due to his ears ringing and still reeling from the attack.

But it did make Peter and Cassandra chuckle.

---

Carnage burst out of the steel cover that kept the sewer closed. Behind his back was the woman Shriek as he led them into an alleyway where Carnage fell to his knee. Shriek helped him to the wall, letting him stand by the wall as his symbiote submerged back to his skin slowly, revealing only the human body of a tired Cletus Kasady. He felt his body slump on the wall and Shriek sat by him, worrying about him.

If someone was to look at Shriek they'll think she's a rock star with the black and white jump shoot she wore, boots that made her tall as Cletus, spiracle earrings that can't be seeing as clear with huge her black hair was, and a diamond shape tattoo mark on the left side of her eye. She had the looks to kill, and the will to kill all together.

Cletus waved her off, chuckling, smiling as he pushed his red hair back, "Tonight…Was all that I ever imagined. Meeting him, fighting him, even almost losing..." he again crackled as Shriek smiled at his own clear definition of happiness, "For only a split second, I thought he wouldn't find me, that I made sure to disappear enough where he wouldn't find me."

"But he did, proving how smart the spider is," Shriek said, wrapping her arms around Cletus as she leaned her head on his shoulder, "You sure about wanting to do this?"

Cletus nodded, "Converting him to my view, my world, will be my greatest challenge. I finally have something more to do than just kill people, or make a cult of my ideals. I can, no we can kill them all, but with him by our side? It'll be complete-"

"Carnage," she moved his chin to her direction, her lips taking his, feeling every bit of him as he did her. It last for a few seconds before she departed, smirking more, "And maybe I can test more of my power," she mention, letting her left blue eyes, brim bright in yellow hue, with little smoke coming out before she deactivated her powers, "I heard you mention that filth of a place to the Spider," She said, frowning, "Think that was a good idea?"

"Babe, I want the spider to know me, about us. I mean," he looked at his hand, calling forth his symbiote, "I know a lot about him then he realizes, to the point I know which buttons to press to feel his full strength. But I don't care much about who's under the mask. Only the spider."

---

Peter watches as Dick and Cassandra make sure they've gotten the right amount of people from Cletus' army out to the police. One thing he noticed was Dick was somehow fine from the ordeal he dealt with not too long ago. Peter felt he shouldn't be there, but here in an ambulance, being looked at and treated. Instead he was, then again, Peter took the most beating out of the trio; his suit was battered up, dirty up, it did provide protection, but Carnage was able to do a lot of onslaught damage, enough where his arms armor was torn to shred, his pants was just as sliced up as his arm, part of his mask now had opening and cut and bruises being noticeable, one eye lenses was all but broken and gone, while the other one was was slightly cracked as he made sure to up the material of it long before he fought Carnage. But the more important part of his suit, such as his upper and lower body, seemed to be more fine with the added armor he had.

It's too bad that the more armor Peter puts on, the more likely it'll end up slowing him down, 'Really could use nth metal here instead of Titanium. Even Tungsten won't stand a chance against Carnage due to how strong he is, and while I know I can walk around with it, its gonna slow me down if the fight goes on further,' Peter thought to himself, thinking of ways to better prepare for his next battle with Carnage, 'Hawkman maybe could spare, but things been dicey with him ever since Hawkwoman passed when Komand'r at one point went to war with his people. I wonder if Koriand'r found some peace with them because Komand'r is no longer a threat,' he shook his head, 'Getting off topic...But what am I even thinking? All the material; like Diana's armor from her bracelet, the different types of promethium out there ranging from physical to magic, supermanium, or hell, marvelium are all out of my jurisdiction right now. If I ask for help now, who knows when or how Carnage would look to attack...That means I have to work with what I have. When I so happen to take him down, I'm gonna need to build a proper suit in case I fight him again. I just gotta hope it doesn't blow up, or get torn to shreds where I can't use it.'

It doesn't help that Peter still has the tendency to not ask for help outside of Gotham. He understands how the world works, and the world needs heroes everywhere, to which he wants to keep this problem only to him and the Bat family if he can, "And done!" said an EMT worker who helped patch up Peter from chest to leg. She definitely would've had problems patching up the more armor part if it wasn't for Peter using his strength to tear the fabric off. He won't lie it was a bit of struggle with how tired and weak he was from that ordeal, but he still has some tank in his system if he needs to do some patrolling.

Though, with the likes of Alfred back, he would berate him to no end that he needed rest. If not him, then Dick, not him, Barbara again, not her, most definitely Bruce, and if not even him, Cassandra too. And he had to listen to her if he wanted to sleep peacefully with her again.

Peter also found himself too busy watching the area around him besides being in his head. The number of people, more than a dozen or so, that wanted to be a part of Kasady cult was being escorted by both police and ambulance teams. Each officer had been eying Cassandra dirty from her mere presence. Unlike say either him or Dick, they were very wary of her.

After all, she took up the mantle from Bruce, and they worried that she'll end up like him if push comes to shove. But luckily, they Dick kept everyone in line with his positive attitude, "Mr Spider-Man?" A slight touch from his shoulder got him to jump slightly. He was brought back to reality seeing the slight surprise, "I uh..Finish patching you up," her tone while concerned, also sounded more aligned to a Spanish tongue than an English.

Peter took notice of the bandages on his chest, hands, arms, and legs, "That…You did. Sorry, just...Mind elsewhere."

The light skinned women nodded, "At least that's something we have in common. This job involving every second counts to save a life, brings that a lot."

"Yep," Peter swung right back on his feet, feeling the soreness of his body kicking in, a small groan came through his lips out of reflex. It made her worried as she went to help him if he needed support, but he put his hands out, noting that he was fine. This wouldn't stop as he took a deep breath in and out, and endured the pain and soreness like has time and time again, "And... All we gotta do is keep going and save as many lives as we can," Peter turned to the EMT worker, "Even those who don't exactly deserve it."

A little snort came from the women, getting Peter curious with his head tilting slightly, "Sorry. Sounds like my husband. He used to tell me that a lot when he was a police officer."

"Was?" She then frowned, looking away from Peter with her hands consciously holding her arm. That's when Peter easily knew what the was part meant, "Sorry, I shouldn't have even asked at all."

"No. No," she shook her head, turning her attention back to him, "You couldn't have known. Cops still dies around here in Gotham. People say it's changing, but deep down, Gotham is still Gotham," she then points to the unconscious army of Carnage being put into multiple ambulances, "Case in point."

She wasn't wrong, the women he noticed that had the tag of Morales had a point. Gotham was still Gotham. Underneath all the glamorous look of change, Gotham was still Gotham. And Peter still has a duty to protect this city, "Just means I have to work harder. Thanks again Ms. Morales."

"Anytime Mr. Spider-Man!"

"Please!" Peter put his hands up when walking back momentarily, "Mr. Spider-Man was my father, just your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man is all. Or amazing, spectacular, sensational, astonishing, even ultimate..Hm, should really look into getting them copyright. Anyways! Take care!" In the process of his bumbling, bright atmosphere being brought to the EMT worker, it got her to smile. And that's what Peter loves to see regardless of how stressful and hard life get's. Making someone smile makes his day even better. Peter went over to Cassandra and Dick, seeing that they were just about wrapped rounding Cletus' small army, "Are they all still alive?" Peter had to ask, just in case Kasady somehow was able to pull a fast one and murder them all.

"Yeah actually," Dick answered, "They're all still unconscious at the moment, not suffering from symptoms of what stroke does to a person," Dick felt himself frown since he of all people knows what's that's like, "Once they wake up, its straight to the precinct where commissioner Dewolff will get her answers."

Peter nodded, still eyeing the little stained blood by Dick's ear, "You sure you're ok? You took a huge sonic blast th-"

"Peter," Dick teeth grinded at worriedness just as his eyebrow knitted together, "I'm good. We have more important matters to worry about than me."

"I'll say!" In came commissioner Dewolff, "Mind telling me what the fuck am I hearing about someone who's playing copy cat with Venom?"

"Carnage," Cassandra corrected.

"Oh great," Dewolff eye-rolled and threw her hand in the air, "Like that makes it any better so please! Someone run me down with what the hell happened in Old Gotham sewers?"

"Jist of it? We found the murderer who took his inspirations from Calendar man," as automatic like a routine there use too, Cassandra pulled out a chip from her utility belt and handed to Dewolff as Peter kept on explaining on what they found, "Guy name is Cletus Kasady, we got enough deats in there for people to go on the manhunt looking for him, but also yes… He has a symbiote like Eddie Brock so you all need to tread lightly because he is much stronger and dangerous then he was," Peter made note, his tone made sure there was no way he'd sugar coat it, "Flames works more than loud noise, but a good enough noise can bother him."

"Fuck…Another one," Dewolff sighed, pocketing the chip and taking out a cigarette pack out of her pocket to ease the stress, "So what's his motives on the killings, or hell! The small army he has been batching up?" She questions when turning on a lighter to smoke.

"Carnage," Cassandra again answered.

Dewolff eyebrow raised just when Dick cleared his throat, "He essentially wants to tear down Gotham, go on a rampage, and see the city burn."

"And well… Also wants me to join his lunatic goal too," Peter couldn't forget to add.

Each and everyone looked at him with various glances; Dewolff was already tired from the ordeal, but now she was shocked to hear someone was as crazy as Kasady, wanting Peter of all people on his side. Dick lip was kept straight, yet turned away slightly at the mere thought of Peter joining Kasady. It won't happen, but to imagine if he got Peter wasn't a very good thought to think about. Cassandra stiffened, ever so slightly, ever so quietly so no one notices, but Peter did as he was keeping an eye on her just as she did. Peter can tell she was having flashbacks when he had on the darker suit about a year ago; how it brought emotions, feelings, urges that he never let on till he wore it. And not to mention, it made him stronger, faster.

Yet more angrier.

More angst than he was when he was a teenager.

Less logical.

And mirroring just a bit with what Bruce was going through after he killed Joker, only he stopped himself from going down that path, thanks to her.

And even when things are complicated now between them. Peter moved just a bit, he squeezed her hands, and she naturally squeezed back before letting go from one another. Their little assurance that everything will be alright was still there regardless of how they felt with one another at the moment.

Dick couldn't help but smile just a bit at seeing that.

"So we're dealing with the usual crazy nut that wants carnage, is Carnage, and want's the great Spider-Man with him. As if this city needs another version of a new clown prince of crime," Dewolff said as she blew a drag out of her cigarettes'.

It sends shudders to just about everyone in the group from different forms. The idea that Kasady's now was something of a new, twisted version of Joker did not sit well with either one of them, "He's also has a partner in crime; has meta-human capabilities blasting high level of a sonic waves, enough to burst someone's ear drum and powerful enough to destroy part of the sewer," Peter added.

"And I assume no one here has much on her because she's more new?" The trio unfortunately nodded as Dewolff took another drag on her cigarette, "Ok, one step forward, and one step behind. But at least we know who and what we're dealing with. We still got a batch of sonic blasters that Wayne tech lent us on our last deal with venom. Luckily, should be able to get a handle on some type of flamethrower's for this Carnage mother fucker."

"Just don't go loco with them commissioner," Dick jokes.

"Heh. In the meantime, I got my work cut out, what else do you three have plans for? It's actually good you two are not alone for once," Dewolff mentioned, "Are the rest of your partners coming back?" She also asked.

"Doubt it," Peter commented, "Nightwing here wasn't part of the plan."

"But they needed help regardless," Dick quickly said.

"Only us," Cassandra said, "We'll keep Gotham safe."

Dewolff could only nod, and hope to god that maybe, just maybe, she can hope that more of their partners come back. Because she has a gut feeling that this is only just the beginning for something worse to come to Gotham.

Chapter 10: Dinner

November 9th

"And again Gotham, we want you to stay safe as much as possible. Make sure you're not out too late, and if so, have someone close to you to proceed you to your home. We have Gotham's finest and Gotham's heroes on the case when it comes to catching the Carnage killer. So as our morning goes off, be mindful of your surroundings, get to your home safely, keep your family as safe as possible, and have a great wonderful day! This is Vicki Vale from the Gotham Gazette."

"Anddd Cut!"

Vicki with her wonderful looks that had just the right amount of makeup, and a slim simple clothing that covered her skin due to it getting a bit colder, had to let out a soft sigh. From 7 in the morning to the afternoon, she had to make sure to repeatedly tell people to be careful more than ever when going about Gotham. For the past few days she needed to do her job in making sure everyone in Gotham is aware of Cletus Kasady's mere existence. Not only that, but the potential danger he will bring more in this city that's just trying to be better than yesterday. This requires her to constantly be up early, not getting enough sleep, driven by intense need of caffeine that she finishes up and throws in the trash, all because this was her job, this was her passion.

She may not be like her partner or the rest of his allies, but she damn well want to be a reporter that helps people however way she can.

She would then get up from her seat, dealing with the usual people that tells her how much of a good job she does. If it wasn't that, people would also look to compliment her looks, her drive, her choices on how she's able to get certain info on the spot. She was used to this due to her resume being just as good as a certain other reporter from Metropolis, or even keystone and central city. But she needed to find a certain someone, someone that can help her get to the bottom of everything that's been going on under the surface. A good portion of the time she doesn't want to depend on Peter in terms of getting newsworthy stories, that was both too easy and cheating her way to keep the reputation she has up float. While she wasn't a saint in the past, she's a lot older and prefers to get her own scoop by any means necessary.

Sometimes it puts her in hot territory, one where again, she's put in the same field as another reporter in the sister city of Gotham. Yet, why she was seeking him in the first place is because they needed to discuss their next move, and it doesn't help that he's been avoiding her for some time.

As she exited the newscast room into the office she knew so well, she found Peter right in front of her; wearing the classic work clothing that doesn't make him stand out; white button up shirt with tie, regular black pants, shoes that looked to be uncomfortable to wear due to his need to likely be free and flexible, and headphones slacked around his neck. He also had a cup of coffee that she can smell the second they almost bump into one another, "Light on the sugar and half and half milk," he presented to her with a small smile on his apparent tired face, "As you like it," however tired, his voice still trickled with kindness and care.

If there's one thing Vicki learned over the years with Peter, no matter how he is, he always makes sure to look out for others. But it proves a problem when he doesn't look out for himself. She took it in, taking a quick sip, and Vicki couldn't deny that Peter knew her a bit too well not to fuck up what she likes, "Wow, now that's a gesture I haven't seeing you do since you were a kid."

Peter couldn't help himself chuckle lightly on the countless times he needed to get on Vicki's good side when he started to work at the Gazette as a teenager, "This was practically everybody's advice when confronting you on your worst days, and boy, you had a lot to deal with back then. Plus," he ruffled the back of his long, big brunette hair, "You have other interns do it for ya often," he then shrugged, "And I knew at some point you would've come hounding me down anyhow."

"And you're gonna answer why you've been avoiding me?" She asked with her eyebrow raised.

"Mostly to cover what I miss, mostly because I was busy sleeping on the roof on my break, and mostly just being me," he found himself frowning, "I had a brief dilemma on not wanting you to get involved with this bu-"

"You know how I am Peter."

He nodded, "That I do. Just like back then, you want to deal with a lot of responsibility because it's your job, your passion," he said with admiration in his tone.

Hearing him say that made her smile at the thoughtful gesture, "Well yeah, the constant need to prove my worth," she pull out one finger, "Dealing with JJ's constant rants on vigilante's all day and night," then another finger, "Trying not to get kill when I dig deep in conspiracy crime stuff," another finger, "And also having to monitor a new intern that just so happens to be the only one to get photos of Spider-Man when quite frankly," she would whisper her next bits, "He was taking selfies of himself. It's a lot of responsibility I took on simply because I have too, and I want to," she said in her more normal pitch voice.

Peter groans, getting Vicki to giggle at his slight annoyance of the selfie trend, "I didn't start that trend Vick."

"You did, accept it, but moving onto important matters!" She quickly took his hand, dragging him across the office.

"Hey! Whoa! I didn't get my coffee!"

"Too bad!"

While being dragged by the reporter, people in the Gazette look on with curiosity. Some also didn't pay them no mind, like Robbie and Ben for example, "There they go again," Robbie mentioned seeing the two workers as he was near Ben's desk.

Ben was by his desk when he looked up to see the poor man being dragged by the older woman. He both snickered and shook his head, "Been a while since I saw that. It always seems to look bad on Vicki if I'm being honest."

"And that's why I make sure to take care of it when others think otherwise. Still, it's good to see those two are looking to work more together."

"I still feel as though Peter would quit in my opinion."

Robbie would shrug his shoulders at that comment, "If he does, then I hope it's because he knows what he wants to do instead of going through the motions of letting life go on. But I can only hope right?"

"I'm sure he'll be alright with who he is."

Soon enough, Vicki opens up the janitor room, pulling Peter in, and closing the door behind them. It was dark the second they enter the claustrophobic room, "Ah..The ole classic headquarters of us talking in secret away from prying ears," Peter commented as he turn on the light bulb in the center between them, "I miss these times," he poke as the lighting revealed the small cramped room full of mops, chemical bottles for cleaning, brooms, and extra deep cleaning materials just in case someone was sick in the office, "I won't lie to you Vicki, this will likely bring back those rumor's of us sleeping together again."

Vicki scoffed at those gossip rumors as she leaned her back against the wall, and drank a sip of her new coffee, "And it all started the second you became 18 too! Like come on! I'm into older men like freaking Bruce Wayne for example."

"Odd how you even made that happen," Peter snidely said.

She slap him on the shoulder for the comment, with him making a small ow sound just to make her feel better, "Because I am a very beautiful women that he wanted to get to know more of back in the day," she then suddenly pout and stomp her feet, "Hey! Stop side-tracking me!"

Having his moment, Peter again chuckled, "Sorry sorry, couldn't help myself. So, we're here to talk about the Carnage killer hm?"

Vicki took more sips from her coffee before putting it aside, "First off, you look like you haven't been sleeping more than usual," She noted, her face becoming concerned now as well as her voice, "Everything alright on your end?"

Peter sighed, rubbing his eyes before responding to that particular question, "Uh…Been a bit complicated I won't lie about that. I mean dealing with the prospect of a stronger Venom, my girlfriend and I not talking as much from our small fight," Vicki couldn't help but cringe at that. She wanted to ask more about that but she'll need to find another time for that, "Dick is back bringing in some...Odd issues, oh and Alfred came back which is making the mansion just a bit more lively. And uh...Bruce is trying to be more in tune with everything now transpiring," Peter pauses, with Vicki simply listening and wanting him to let it all out, "...Just been one of those days where it's overwhelming, and I can't exactly do much without making more problems prop up. Oh! And I got my ass kicked a lot a few days ago, and so far, resting is healing me up a good bunch, but I'm still feeling the amount of crap this Kasady guy threw at me."

"And that's why you've been here more consistently as of recently? Because you just need time away from everything as your body and mind needs rest?" With the question out there, Peter nodded, "Well for one thing, it's good that you're balancing your job out with the whole other routine, you know? It's good to see you being a good boy again for one," she said, patting his head

Peter frowned, "Hey! I'm always a good boy!"

"Sure sure, if you say so," Peter only could've pouted in the end, "But now important business, Carnage. I know you know a lot more than most so how can I help out more from my end?" Vicki asked, having her arms crossed, "I've only got a few tidbit stuff from Dewolff and other officers, but not enough. I assume you knew those people they arrested from your fight hasn't said a word at all?"

"Yeah," Peter groans, "Dewolff mentions something about them taking a word of silence. Definitely going to blackgate, but it doesn't help us find Kasady at all."

"And yet the city needs to be aware of him, and I can't seem to find any record of this Kasady guy at all."

"That's because someone tried to wipe out his record."

"Fuck!"

"And so far Dick is looking into this Ravencroft company, apparently it's probably a place that held both Eddie and Kasady, and quite possibly is how they created this new symbiote for Kasady."

"Ok, I assume you know who's funding it and keeping it under wraps? Ravencroft seems obvious, no?"

"That's the tricky part," he stated while scratching his beard, "There's no actual real link to who's funding it, no trace, or name, but just a word from a psychopath I fought. It's like whoever built it up, made sure to bribe a lot of people to keep it well hidden," Peter explained, "We found traces to people who did little bit of this and that to help it going, but nothing that leads to who really fund the place."

Vicki eyebrow shrewd, she knows that to stay hidden from these types of things, everything has to be handled in a physical form. There would also need to be people, very high people, to even approve of its location. Her journalist brain was on the run on this one and she had a few ideas who it could be, but really, one stood out above the rest, "Let's take the obvious one out the list, and probably the only one who likely could be even connected to Cletus," she saw it in Peter eyes, the knowing answer, but unsure without clear evidence, "Wilson Fisk. He was targeted in the fundraiser, and maybe him being hidden is a way to avoid Cletus."

"That's what I have in mind," Peter said, agreeing on Vicki's deduction, "It makes sense, but there's little to no evidence of anything linking to Kasady. However…" Peter hands tapped his chin, his brain also working overtime piercing the clues together with Vicki, "It would also make logical sense to try to make a new form of a symbiote based on Eddie..." Tapping his chin, Vicki saw eyes slightly widen, "...To cure his dying wife."

"But in the process, created Carnage, and then also went to another source to try to cure his wife like Miss Al Ghul?" Vicki blew a huge breath from her mouth at the rabbit hole they were going in, "Jeez…" Then something nagged at her, a missing piece that they were overlooking, "But then where is Eddie in all this?"

Peter shrugs, "I've tried to track him down before, even now he's ducking low, probably shape shifting his face to stay off the grid more. At one point I tracked him to San Francisco, but oddly enough, he wasn't doing anything. He was just...There, sometimes even helping people. And I just stopped keeping tabs on him. After what happened to his wife, I just assume that took a toll on him enough where he doesn't want to hurt me, or anyone close to me," Peter frown came back on, "Should've kept a close on eye him if it meant people would capture him and create this Carnage."

Vicki heard the tone of Peter's voice becoming grave about their last fight, her hand consciously placed on his shoulder, "That wasn't your fault Peter. You couldn't predict what would've happened to Eddie."

Peter briefly had his eyes away from Vicki, "Yeah, but it's my responsibility to protect not only the people closest to me, but everyone as much as I can."

Vicki already heard this song, danced to this tune, she's not gonna do it again if she had anything to say about it, "None of that ok?! Eddie's wife chose to fight back against the bastard that manipulated her into trying to kill you," Vicki spoke with clear anger over what Eddie put Peter through, but also irritation to hearing Peter feeling guilty of wanting to be better, "I would never understand how you can have sympathy for a man that only wanted to have everything you have? A job here in this building? A great girlfriend that you have? People that care about you? But we're not going down that road where you have to feel guilty over little things that you had no control of. You know this Peter, and you shouldn't repeat that same tune again"

Peter's eyes softened, frown stayed on, and he heard every word she was saying to him. The truth of the matter was a regression he's, or has been dealing with for years. And the problem is how can he stop that? How can stop thinking the same thing he always ended up finding himself to think about? To come back in this same position where he feels guilty of not being enough? Where he feels useless in terms of protecting everyone as much as he can? "I'm trying not to Vic, it's not easy... If there's any consolation, Eddie is not someone I would forgive for how much he did trying to hurt me, yet he's nowhere near Jackal or Osborn. And for that, I can't hate him. He's a person that was jealous, big ego, and angry that he couldn't have everything that I had. So when the symbiote bonded to him, they combined their shared anger and hatred for me. Regardless of what, I won't hold hatred over him with how he destroyed his life. I...I may keep on dealing with the same problems I've been dealing with since being who I am, but one thing that will stay consistent is at least believing that some people can be redeemed as long as they try," the conversation was again getting sidetracked, so Peter needed to make sure to tell Vicki what she needs to do on her end, "I'll send you some data I acquired on Wilson business. We need more evidence to flush that place out and shut it down. We also need more info on Kasady's partner," Peter pulled out a picture of her just before his spider bot was destroyed, "We're a bit spread thin at the moment and well... We need your help."

"And so that's where I come in," Vicki said, taking the photo and examining who this person is, "She seems to love metal from her looks I'll give you that," her little joke lightening the mood, making Peter chuckle lightly, "What else you need me for?"

"If you can, dig some more stuff on Kasady, anything that explains his motives, it will help on how to catch and stop him. Just remember to be safe out there alright?"

"Heh, you know me. Danger finds me," Peter groans, letting the back of his head hit against the wall lightly at her response he's too familiar with hearing, "Oh! Before I forget," she took out a small envelope from the inside of her pants, "I actually managed to track down the great white shark."

Peter found himself surprised to hear that out of nowhere, "That's… Actually big. He's been keeping a low profile with all the gangs being in shambles from Kasady's work."

"WHERE THE HELL IS PARKER AND VALE?!" Shouted the one and only Jonah Jameson, looking for the duo, "SHE'S NOT SUPPOSED TO SUPPORT VIGILANTISM! GOD DAMN IT!"

Both couldn't help but sigh and laugh at the irony of reality coming back, "And so duty calls," Peter said.

"Indeed."

At the very least, the duo cracking their heads on what they're dealing with left them in a good head space on how to approach next into stopping this incoming carnage that wants to rain over Gotham. As Peter got his own task to do, he received a message on his phone that made him check who messaged him.

Pennywise: Dinner at 7. Make sure to bring a fresh bottle of wine since it seems neither you and Cassandra had done proper grocery shopping since I left the manor in both of your hands

"Huh...Dinner..." Peter put his phone away, "This can either be awkward, or something we all need it. Leave it to Al to think ahead."

---

Selina had a lax schedule today. Around this time, even in the evening, she would be helping with whatever the orphanage kids needed; whether it was food, taking them around the city, teaching the basics of reading, writing, or introducing them to something fun for a change. She would be doing all that she can for those orphans and the orphanage. Cause it came from a place of understanding with all that she went through; she herself grew up with no parents at a young age, mother died from the struggles of abusive marriage and money troubles that led to her suicide, and then sometime afterword's, her father continue to drown himself in misery with alcohol till death do him part. Since then, she was always clawing for freedom, security, a will and a way to survive in the harsh streets of Gotham.

She would become something similar to Bruce, donning a costume of sorts and painted herself as Catwoman; stealing whatever she can find and getting a thrill from the utter danger she put herself in.

But she made it out of that life somehow. Dropping the costume sometime ago, marrying the man that stole her heart more ways than one, opening up a place to keep kids off the street, and yet she won't lie to herself about one thing. Sometimes she misses those days when she was in her 20's, starting out as Catwoman even when she realized the dangerous games she started playing with the rest of Gotham criminals. Or when she was in her 30's where now that she had years of experience, she tried to at least pass on her teachings to someone who was in a similar situation as she had been through. But that crash and burn just like how it broke Peter's heart when he found out that she only cares about the Spider and not him as a person. But now in her early 40's, she finds it ironic how age does wonder on the mind and body. She was still fit to do a lot of things, still had the speed and reflexes that made sure she was alive, but she knew eventually that wouldn't be the case. And she also knows being Catwoman is not an option for her as it was before.

Because now, being 43, she has everything she ever wanted. Stable home, stable job, and a sense of purpose that makes her better than who she once was. With that case close, she wants to fight for all that she has, to keep it close to her heart, and never lose it by any means necessary. To never be in the streets fighting for her own freedom and peace.

That's why she was riding her motorcycle to Wayne mansion as the sun was starting to dip. She knows that he was there, she knows what his mind has been thinking as of late, and she knows she has to pull him back out of that cave. It may be tiresome, it may be stressful, but she wouldn't have married Bruce if she didn't know what she would be dealing with.

Plus, Alfred was back and was planning dinner, and dinner needed a woman's touch too.

She made it to Wayne manor, parking outside of the entrance, turning off the engine, and taking off her helmet. She didn't need to worry about her short hair being a mess when entering the Wayne mansion. Her boots on her feet that she somehow rode on a bike was the loudest thing to make noise in the mansion. Nowadays since the mansion doesn't have many people here, it was quiet, few lights were on with the only source of light coming from the sun through the windows. She never quite liked it like this, to have a house like this without any guest, families of sort encapsulating it? It just made it look more haunting than anything. It didn't suit either Cassandra or Peter to live in a cave on top of a cave.

They belong outside of this place with Bruce needing to sell it to someone who could put it to more use. But it would mean destroying and relocating the bat cave to which Bruce would dearly hate if it came to that.

Though surprisingly, she heard the sound of a plastic bag rummaging around in the kitchen. Peaking through, she saw Alfred being the supportive person he always was, restocking food in Wayne mansion. Again because of her heels, Alfred probably heard her coming from a mile away. So instead of making her introduction, she waltzes in and begins helping him. Old as he was, he quickly stopped Selina from touching the bottle of milk, "Come now Misses Wayne, you know I'm well capable of doing this on my own," he said with nothing but kindness in his voice.

Selina flashed him a smile, "Nope! I'm helping! And that's misses Kyle Wayne to you good sir!" she pronounced in a sort of comedic tone, one that got Alfred to lightly chuckled. Selina would handle restocking the fridge while Alfred restocks the little cabinets of ingredients, "I'm sorry I couldn't be here sooner to see you come back! Work has been a little hectic recently and I've been trying to keep the kids more away from the streets for the time being. In fact, today was rather lax and that I can entrust my employees to handle the kids so I could take time off on my own."

"With the likes of Mr. Parker, Ms. Cain, Ms. Gordon, and now master Grayson on the case we'll likely see the criminals brought to justice in no time. I'm assuming you're also here because of Master Wayne?" Alfred curiously brought up.

Selina let out a soft sigh, "That obvious huh?" She answered. Her eyes roam to the various chickens, potatoes, rice, and other sources of food being left on the large table, "You do know Peter has a big appetite right..?"

Alfred turned to Selina, a shift of his eyebrow, and the smallest of smiles before restocking the kitchen was enough of an answer for Selina, "Who said that was all that we're gonna cook?"

Selina hummed, noting that the other foods were likely being stored in the fridge for the time being. But seeing him do all this made her curious, "What brought this on Al?"

"Well why in the world not? It would be nice to have regular dinner like we used to have," Alfred imparted.

Selina frowned, a hand couldn't help but rub her chin, "Use too Al. We're missing a few people for that dinner that you want to have."

Alfred knew this, the smallest of silence was an indication of that, "...True, but what we have now is better than nothing. I think we all need a moment to just…Be around each other once again."

Selina crouches low in the fridge when restocking, looking up to Alfred with an eyebrow raise, "Including Bruce?"

Stopping his own restocking, the man in question was something he still had to deal with. He's been avoiding him ever since a few days ago when they found Kasady, but now he's been coming more, staying in the Batcave, either coordinating crimes or planning the next move against the likes of Kasady, and the unknown threat that Wilson Fisk is working with.

It surely gave Barbara some time off her back, but he wasn't prepared for Bruce to come in so suddenly. Then again, Alfred had become unsure how to approach Bruce. He noted that Bruce looks the same, albeit a bit bigger with the lack of exercise he used to do, acts the same from what he sees, but deep down, Alfred still feels mentally scarred from what he saw first hand after Bruce killed Joker, "Including him…I uh.. Only briefly got to talk to him, but it's not easy looking at him," his eyes drifted to Selina's own, "I'm always reminded of the monster he became after he decided Gotham's only way of being saved was killing the damned and insane."

Selina couldn't help but get up quickly and offer him a hug. It was not unexpecting for her to do it, but he wouldn't lie that he did need it from her most of all. After all, she gets it the most, she's the wife of Bruce Wayne, and to see her husband become the thing he fear the most had impact on her as well as for himself, "I…I've been doing everything I can to keep him grounded and sane, feels like I'm failing though, that I'm losing him every since that Carnage guy been murdering people."

Alfred would hug her back, "As his wife, you haven't given up on him. Although others find it hard to be around him, you haven't and that gives hope…It's just the rest of the family that needs to come together now. I know eventually, I'll have to face him, and making dinner is my way of…Confronting him... So to speak"

'If only you knew the half of it Alfred,' Selina told herself. Her expression became downpour when Alfred couldn't notice it from the hug, 'How many times I rather not be around him, or not deal with his transgression, the night terrors he sometimes has, the dead eyes I see every now and again, sometimes him staring out in the window as he watches that bat symbol lit up. A normal sane woman would outright leave due to the stress…But I guess I'm not so sane if I'm still here for him.'

Letting go of their hug, Selina made sure to keep her expression from being too sorrowful for Alfred to worry about. She placed a hand on Alfred as she began to see how worn, and old he's becoming. He's tired, guilty, stressed, and looks like he hasn't been sleeping. Poor Alfred has been through so much over the years, but this is the first time Selina is seeing him like this, and she wanted to reassure him of one thing, "Everything will be ok Alfred. I won't give up on him, or anyone here that's family. I am kind of a mother figure here anyhow."

Alfred and Selina shared a small giggle, "Ironic that now as you're older, you see yourself as that. I remember once upon a time you didn't want to be associated with us."

Her eyes rolled, "I grew Al! I think that's what happens to both men and women no matter what age they are. I'm 43, still looking quite sexy I may add, and still learning how to be a good person," she pauses briefly, still holding a smile on her face, "..And also how to be a good wife."

Alfred's expression lightens up from his conversation with Ms. Kyle Wayne in front of her. He patted her hand that was by his cheek, "All we can do is do our best, just keep going Ms. Kyle Wayne," Alfred positively acknowledged, lighting up the mood, "He's down in the cave, whenever you're ready. While I already message everyone else, make sure to remind them to come on time. Especially for Peter and Cassandra as they have to bring some extra ingredients before dinner starts."

She nodded, "I'm helping, don't forget about that, and Bruce will too," her grin widened at her statement. Alfred on the other hand made a silent prey to god above for him to get through the day.

Selina would finish helping sort out the foods they'll be using before she retreated to the cave under the mansion. She still finds herself amazed at the little things to the big things Bruce did to build this place the way it is. She knew Alfred helped, even the late Lucius Fox did so too, but the bulk of it was built by Bruce's mind and hands. Going down the stairs, her own boots causing the sound to echo out, and not minding the bats that tend to still live and fly around here, she saw him with his hands behind his back.

Watching the costumes in the glass cases vault, costumes that were not only from the past, but also his own making on either building the identities of the people he helped grew, and shape into what they are now.

Selina walks to him, taking her time, watching his expression, his poker face not changing, but she was aware of his eyes quickly glancing in her direction before continuing to stare at the costumes in front of him. Selina kept her distance from him so as to not impose his space just yet, "So, after a whole year of trying to stay away from this place, you finally ran back home huh?"

Bruce didn't answer at first, taking a moment to breathe in and out. His eyes was still glued on to the costumes that not only had his, but for the likes of various Robins; one that was designated for Dick with the green shorts, small green boots, and the red and green upper chest that had an R symbol on the right of the chest, along with the yellow cape that were cleaned and kept. He was the perfect example of the kind of hope he can bring to people who experienced trauma like he did.

Yet Jason's own was different; same color, same color schemes, more armor that cover the arms and legs, over all being taller, but also being brutally ripped apart, blood stained on the costume and domino mask, and wear and tear with remnants related to an explosion that caused. Bruce left it that way, a sign of not being able to save Jason not only from the clown prince of crime, but because of his inner rage.

Interestingly enough, Tim would build his own suit; a cowl, the emblem on his chest, and the cape pointed more towards the bird he earn to be. He wanted to be the Robin, the Batman's partner, because he felt that the city and Batman included, needed a Robin. It's only unfortunate that due to the life he chose to live in, he met the true cruelty of it all, and as the years went by, even his intelligence couldn't help him escape from more ounces of pain and trauma.

Then there were the Batgirls. Cassandra and Stephanie were all based on the first Batgirl, that being Barbara's costume. It was a deep black and yellow costume, the armor being the gauntlet, shin guards, utility belt, and Bat symbol were encased in yellow with everything else being black. He kept it here so it would be better for her to not always be reminded of those days.

Stephanie changed hers a bit to add the purple in the waist lines, more to make it her own suit. And she did make it her own, but now the suit was heavily burned and melted like acid was poured on it. Bruce hated how he wasn't fast enough to at least not made her endure those aching pains she went through.

And Cassandra did away most of the yellow, or even let the cowl branch out her hair like the two other Batgirls. She kept it more simple, moving away from her original costume that she no longer had the desire to see in the cave.

And most importantly, Cassandra's costume looked more and more like Bruce the more she evolved it, and the more she wore it.

But in the middle, between the Robins and Batgirl suit, was the fame red and blue costume with an iconic black spider in the center that allowed the web lines to spread out to arms and legs with the red while the blue was more in line being more by the armpits, waist, and legs. While he did use it recently, and was sued up, it still had its share of tears to it, marks from past battles that Peter didn't look over properly, and above all else, the mask was no longer a mask. Its len's was cracked wide open, the mask being held together barely, but also not fitting well with the original costume. It was a reminder of Peter's last battle with a similar being he's now facing, but also an indication of the many times Peter upgraded his suit for the times.

Bruce held his gaze for a few more seconds on all of the people who he helped, couldn't help, and wished to help to this day before now looking at his wife. He even was thankful that Peter and Cassandra preserve all this when he once tried burning them, "..They need my help Selina."

She moved a step forward, "Do they really?" She asked with her arms now crossing.

"They do."

Selina heard his voice sounding affirmative, but she felt different about it, "No Bruce, your there, waiting and watching to be called upon again," her shamrock eyes kept her focus on her husband, just as his steel blues eyes kept his focus on his wife, "You've been here before, waiting all this time for something like this to happen again…Hoping, begging for another villain of this caliber to come to hurt everyone in Gotham. All so you can have an excuse to wear this," her hands touch upon the case that was his own costume.

A suit that changes time and time again, modifying, evolving, upgrading, and the one that started the crusade of saving Gotham. It now stood there, holding the gaze of both husband and wife; the cowl, while cracked and broken, held its stoicness still, the cape, the suit, the utility belt, everything in general showed the damage it was put through since it was last worn. Like all the costumes here, it was a reminder for Bruce and Selina.

A reminder of never again, yet now, it was becoming more and more of a conflict between the two.

"...I'm just here to help where I can..Selina," Bruce said, more of a mumble than his clear affirmation he once had a second ago, "Doesn't mean...I will wear it again..."

Selina still heard his mumble, and then moved closer to him. She would let out another of her sighs due to the amount of stress she deals with involving her husband. Selina now can see his expression was changing slowly when holding his gaze at his costume, an expression that resembles lost and grief, "I get it, you want to be useful, you still want to have ways to help everyone. But you need to remember that they've all grown, they can handle Gotham without your help. Do you not trust them? Or do you just simply not trust yourself to uphold your promise you made to them?" She asked, wondering if this was one of the main causes why he's back in the cave in the first place.

His eyes went back onto his wife, becoming more and more unsure of the real motivation of being here. Was it because he so desperately wanted to be the Bat again? Or that he doesn't trust Peter, Cassandra, or even Dick and Barbara to help keep the street safe? Or maybe he still feels the need, the urge to permanently wipe the scum that wants to hurt his city once more? Hell, was it because he just simply doesn't trust himself to stay on the path he needs to stay on?

Or was it all of the above? Or maybe something more. Bruce rubs the back of his neck out of being uncomfortable, shying away from Selina just a bit, "I…Don't know Selina."

Because she was close, she took one of his hands, to hold it, to bring reassurance, and to be a supportive wife, "Whatever the case maybe..I'm here, and I won't leave ok? Regardless of your feelings about all this? I won't let you succumb to those thoughts. You made a promise to them, all of them, some didn't hear it, but you did. You made a promise to give up the suit, the mantle, the symbol because you know how far you went. And you won't break that promise, you hear me?" He would nod as a response, hearing her, bringing himself closer to her, hugging her.

Holding onto dear life, a support, an anchor that he so desperately needed. There was a time when he was younger that he called himself weak for relying on others to keep him steady, to keep him standing. But Bruce isn't young, he isn't raw, nor angry, naïve, and especially as vengeful as before. He's older, and he understands the importance of relationships, a support system that can help him be better, "...Also you need to talk to Alfred, you owe him that more than he does," Selina said when letting go of herself from him.

"..I owe everyone to be better, and I'm still trying to figure it out," he said whole heartedly.

"And you can't do it alone. You won't."

"I know," Bruce paused, not only deciding to bring back his focus on his wife, but also think for a second to put the proper words he wanted to say to Selina, "...I apologize for how I've been lately, that I've been hard to be around once more."

Selina would shrug, but smile in front of her husband. The kind of smile that made him, the former Bat, heart race with how she can light up the room with a simple small gesture such as a smile, "You're my husband, I wouldn't have said yes if I knew what I was getting myself into."

Her words, her support, and again, her smile, made Bruce smile too, it may not be a huge one, but a small one that was appreciative of her in every way. Selina had a real good point because anyone that barely knew who Bruce was would've given up on him. And even though the likes of Alfred, Dick, Barbara, even Peter and Cassandra don't interact with him like they used to, they're still around him, they still want to, in some semblance, be around him, and they haven't given up on his humanity.

And that's why the likes of Cassandra and Peter try to steer him away from being the Bat, because they believe they've learned enough from him and their own shared experience of how to protect this city. And not only that, Bruce deserves to find a way to live outside of the Bat, to find himself in the land of the living as Bruce Kyle Wayne.

Not the mask.

---

Barbara was in her usual place in the clock tower, monitoring multiple places and people at the same time on her computer. She noted that Peter was out in about as Spider-Man, focusing on old Gotham, and Cassandra was out in about in North Gotham. She needed a break away from the cave, and what better way than her home in the clocktower.

It was calm.

Quite.

No bats.

And she has the view of Gotham in her backdrop.

But Barbara wouldn't lie it was to avoid Bruce. Like Alfred, she feels uncomfortable being around him, to see him in the cave, and even staring at his costume. She knew the day would come where he would decide to come back to the manor, to the cave. But it didn't make it easier to deal with his presence, or deal with her feelings on him.

How can you know that the man you looked up to for years had done the most unthinkable things, even when he had the right to do so, yet had no right to go far into hurting those who were his allies?

Pushing away those thoughts and feelings, she kept a closer eyes on Dick who seemed to be flying in the air with his wing jet he himself made thanks to his soon to be fiancé sister, "I still haven't found the right time to ask her. All this stuff with Gotham has kept me busy from either seeing or even texting her as much as I used to," Dick came through on Barbara's small mic in her ears.

"Understandable, it's a big thing to pop up especially when you did so before," Barbara took a sip of tea she had near her before continuing on, "Just don't leave her hanging even when you're busy."

"Who do you think I am Babs?" His question came through with the usual, sly tone he had every now and again.

She smirked, raising an eyebrow from the sarcastic question, "You're the Dick Grayson, women love you, they can't live without you, and they can't even stand to be around you," he laugh at the joke, "But you also have a problem with communication for the opposite gender."

"Not true! I'm talking to you right now!"

She shifted her head slightly, acknowledging that he has a point, "Ok true, but besides the person you knew for a great while back when you were wearing your green underoos-"

"See, I don't hear that kind of talk when it comes to Peter."

"That's Selina territory and he gets enough from her. But besides me, you and I always were communicative because Bruce instilled that in us. Not only that, we have known each other for so long that we also dated, and that allows a communication that the both of us don't always have from others," a small frown became apparent at her acknowledgment of that, "Even with the people we love."

"Point taken. As much as I talk to the Titans, there is always something about talking to you that helps clear things up. If not you, then the entire Bat family in the nut shell."

"Which brings about a question. How much do you ever tell them with what you're dealing with? Or what you had to deal with? Do they know the time you got rape by Mirage or Tarantula?" Dick went silent, and his silence was strong enough that Barbara couldn't help but sigh, "Does Koriand'r even know?" He again was silent, so silent it almost felt like she was talking to Bruce again, "This…Is where I'm getting at Dick, I or anyone here in Gotham can't be the only one you really communicate too. If you really want Koriand'r to be a part of your life for real this time, then you have to be open to her."

"...Easy for you to say. You had it easier than I did."

Her eyes widened quickly when Dick said that, out of all people, he said that so easily with such an envious tone, "How dare you say that… Did you know what he did to me Dick? How he took away the very thing that stops me from helping out more? That he undress me, took pictures, and fucked up my own father with showing me in that predicament?" her face was scrunched up, her hands clutching the cup tightly, Barbara never thought Dick would say that she out of all people had it easier. She's likely the only person who could ever understand what it's like to not be able to control, to fight back the offenders who oppressed them, and we're put in a scenario that they were dominate to do whatever they please to them, "The hell is wrong with you Dick to say that kind of crap to me? Me?! O-"

"Because you don't understand that Barbara! That clown could've done far worse but he chose to take pictures of you lying naked, shot, and bleeding. What I went through, in both situations, how the hell could I control those outcomes? I didn't even know I was screwing the wrong person till days later, and Tarantula took advantage of me in a dire state that I couldn't do anything, ANYTHING BARBARA! So how do I tell that to the Titans? How do I tell that to the people who are better than me? And how do I tell that to the women I love who, beyond all standards, understands what I went through the most! So I get it when you say I should be more open, but you don't understand that I don't want either of them to look at me like that, that they feel sorry, pity of what I went through. I don't need that with them or Kory. But you, Bruce, Selina, Jason, Tim, Steph, Cass, and Peter…You all get it and wouldn't pity those situations."

Barbara wanted to call bullshit in all that he wanted to say, but she can't let her anger outweigh her. She couldn't let her anger control her thoughts just because he struck a nerve, "Still doesn't give you the right to judge me for having it easier Dick," Barbara tone was still pissed, almost as if she wants to yell and scream at him for throwing something as her own trauma to her face like that, "You of all people should know we all went through our own share trauma, and not one of us would either throw it to the other person face, or say that they went through worse. You, would never had said that to anyone years ago…But now I'm understanding more and more-"

"That I'm not me?" He cut her off, adding a scoff, "Who Cares if I'm not the old Dick Grayson. What matter is that I'm no longer a couch potato, lying in bed all day, reliving the utter pain that the fucking clown put me through. I'm here now gonna make a difference for my family," While his resolve was clearly there, Barbara can tell just from this piece of communication they just had, she wasn't talking to the same Dick. It was as if that brain aneurysm changed him in more ways than one. It's been said that it could happen, but for it to be on this scale involving her best friend? Barbara couldn't put a pin on it.

There had to be something more causing Dick's own bipolar emotion than just from a brain aneurysm, or maybe she was looking too deep into it, trying to put something on his personality change when really it could've simply been the aneurysm. In a sense, her years of understanding how people work from a civilian mindset, hero mindset, and to a criminal mindset just ache to find a reason instead of what's on the wall.

"I'm here," Dick made it to the sight that was supposed to be where ravencroft was at. It is laid out by New York in the Westchester county side of upper New York. But upon landing, Dick found nothing but a disgruntled building lying in waste; part of the building was collapse on itself, whatever grass was there were almost burned or dried out with no ounce of H2O sustain it, and pieces of the building that were still standing looked to be cracked wide open, but also held not entry point for Dick to get into, "This is suppose to be the place right Babs?"

Moving away from their argument, Barbara expression slid into a poker face as she did her quick research on the place, "Yes, it's supposed to be the place where Wilson had some financial routes to be put into. It's not officially labeled, but it has a known license at the least so no one could copyright its name."

"Hm. I'm gonna do a run about scan of the area, maybe I can find a way in. If not, we might need Peter in this case since he's the muscle in the group."

Dick was doing his part to lighten up the mood, clear the air from their heated argument, but it won't work today, "That's probably what Kasady would want, could be a trap."

"True. Maybe I'll get Kory instead to help out if she's not too busy in new Tamaran," from where she can see, and hear, Dick ended moaning what felt like agony to Barbara. Before she was gonna ask, Dick would take a green pill from his utility belt and take it, easing whatever pain he was dealing with, "Simple drug to manage the pain," he quickly answered.

Before she could give an opinion on what she saw, Barbara received a text from her phone that was linked to her computer. Selina ended up messaging her that they were supposed to have dinner soon in the Wayne manor. If she was being honest, she wanted to skip it, but with Alfred and Selina messaging her? It wouldn't be a good look on her regardless of her feelings, "You might wanna head back to Gotham."

"Family cookout?"

"Family cook in, actually."

Dick found himself lightly chuckling.

---

Slowly but surely, Wayne Manor was feeling a bit more alive. Selina took the opportunity to clean the mansion because dear lord, she found out that the place hasn't been kept clean as she thought it would. By all means, it wasn't completely dirty where it brought about rodents, but it surely needed a caliber of a woman's touch put into it. The whole being a cleaning maid in Selina eyes was quite funny because she knew years ago she would never see herself as the type to clean up a mansion that was hers.

It wasn't to say she'll let a simple butler do all the work, but to put in the work from going room to room and make sure everything was tidy? No, Selina's younger self would never do that. But now that she's older, she would, because this is also her home just as it is for anyone else. On the other hand, it provided time for Bruce to talk with Alfred. Every now and again Selina would come back to the kitchen, getting a peak of how it was. Still, she would notice the two of them being quiet when prepping dinner. And every now and again, she would clear her throat ever so loudly.

With the added use of vacuuming.

Brushing really loud.

Or the added humming of a Britney Spear song stuck in her head. It was enough for Bruce to lightly glare from behind, and she caught his gaze so in response, she gestured with her broom to talk to Alfred. Bruce mouths that he knows without vocally saying it. So with a heavy breath, he took the first step, "...I'm glad you're back."

Alfred's eyes briefly looked at Bruce who kept his eyes on mashing down the now-boiled potatoes, "..Not forever," he told before going back to his own focus on the chicken he ended up putting in the oven.

They switch sides with Alfred seeing that Bruce already prepared the fishes that needed frying and Bruce made sure to monitor the brown rice he was making, "I figure," Bruce shortly said, "But still glad is all."

It went quiet once again, but this time Selina wasn't going left and right, making such a disturbance for them to man up and talk. Again, Alfred's eyes swayed to the taller man beside him, eyeing the shape of his body; it wasn't too big, he still held a slim form, but there was notice bulk in his figure then he remembered, and a small punch in his belly beginning to form. If Alfred were to guess, he isn't as active as he was before, maybe a little bit, but not aggressively so. He hoped at least he was keeping his fighting regiment in top order.

For him to spend so many years learning every inch of martial arts, and to stop keeping it in top condition would unnerve Alfred. While he doesn't want him to be Batman, he doesn't want Bruce to let such things he learns go to waste, "I noticed you've become bigger than I last saw you," Alfred pointed out, frying the fish while adding a tinch of more seasoning.

"Managing Wayne enterprise and being an actual billionaire playboy tends to have that effect," Bruce remarked.

"Hm, as you say. Ever thought of opening your own dojo?"

"I can't handle kids Alfred," Alfred eyes squint when looking at him. Bruce didn't have to look at Alfred to notice his perplexed expression, "The more normal kids I mean. Maybe someday, but not right now."

Alfred eyerolled, 'Poor excuse knowing you are great with kids, and even so, you can start with helping your wife out in the orphanage she runs,' he said with a tiresome thought. Once more, quietness came back between the two and the sounds of sizzling meat, frying fish, boiling water, and the stove adjusting itself when baking was the only thing keep the kitchen from total silence. It didn't last not a second later when Bruce went over to the counter side to fix up a salad bowl, "Visit anyone else in Gotham?" Bruce query.

Alfred saw the rice was done and made sure to grab a proper bowl to put it in, "Who else could I visit here Bruce? People who I've known have long since past as I'm the only one left alive," Turning off the side of the stove, he check to see if the rice was not too sticky but also not too soft for it to tear apart with the wooden spoon he was using, "Miss Thompkins decided she had done enough of trying to help this city as is and moved away as she's the only one that I was close to that's still alive," he would pour the rice into the big round bowl and take it by the counter near Bruce along with a few other food that they finish up earlier thanks to Selina's help, "And…The women I loved unfortunately passed due to the rapidness of her dementia that she hid up until it was too late to do anything…"

Bruce stopped his movement of adding certain stuff to make the salad. He found himself no longer shying away from Alfred and looked at the man that stare endlessly in the hot, steaming brown rice he just finished. Bruce made sure the fish was done cooking, turning off the stove, but then proceeded to have Alfred's full attention. Wanting to touch him, comfort him, but his hand stayed idly to his side, "May was a good woman, it's one of the reasons why Peter is the best of us."

Alfred sighed, nodding his head, "That we can both agree on. Yet it seems he struggles with being the best of himself, knowing that he is forever gonna be tied to this city that only wants to constantly destroy him," Alfred said with the hint of irritation in his tone, "If not that, he's only hurting himself more than the villains he faces against."

"I tried giving him every out, every chance for him to stop being who he wanted to be bu-"

"But he's too much like you master Wayne," Alfred cut him off with whatever he really wanted to say, staring up at the man he helped raise when he was just but a boy who lost his parent's in the alleyway, "Both of you rather take a bullet than letting another poor child lose someone they care about. The real difference lies in the fact that Peter still blames himself for his Uncle Ben's death, and he will always blame himself for what he could've done in a circumstance he couldn't possibly know would happen. While you? You were a boy who grew into a man too early because he wanted to change this city for the better, to make a safer city so no one would experience what you've gone through... I always hope that you wouldn't break under the pressure of this city because like Peter, you both wouldn't let it happen," Alfred felt a lump on his throat, holding back the tears that wanted to intrude through his eyelids, "...But I would never blame you for being broken by what the clown did to this family, in fact, I would've killed him myself. It's.. Only afterwards," Alfred's expression change to a frown at remembering the plenty of ruthless actions and choices Bruce made in spite of being broken by the clown, "What you did to those people; to the rogue's gallery you built that might've deserve it, to those that didn't such as the justice league, and if I might specifically add, what you made Cassandra went through that day. That's not something I can forgive Bruce. It's something that only serves to sever everything you once stood for as Batman."

Bruce looked down to his feet, feeling ashamed of disappointing his adoptive father, yet raised his head to confront the shamelessness of his past actions, "What I did…What I had to do Alfred, I did it because I thought it was truly the only way Gotham would be safe," Alfred sucked his teeth, moving past Bruce to check on the chicken that was being baked in the oven, "Ra's was right, all these criminals, these psycho's, will not change!" He turned to face the back of his adoptive father, "I…I just wanted to make sure none of what happened to everyone… Happened again. And it meant hurting…The people I care about.."

Alfred can hear the pain, the fractured voice of his son that holds the weight in the choices he made a year ago. It truly meant that he was still struggling, still coping with all that happened. And he couldn't really fault him since his actions were just, but it didn't make it right, it didn't make it right when he hurt good people for his conquest. He remembers the days Bruce stood for vengeance on those who would hurt innocent, but to never kill. It was a philosophy he spread to the family he formed, and even the allies he grew with.

But Bruce, however, crossed that line, and became what he was supposed to fight against. He stooped down to their level, and he almost lost his family in the process, "... I don't want to hear it again and again Bruce. Because I know.. I understand…But it doesn't make it right," he again looks behind him, to Bruce, to his broken son, "I'm not here to say or to agree that your actions were justifiable no matter how much I understand part of it. But it becomes so hard when I remember how much you hurt your allies. Poor master Kent likely has not long to live because of you... I'm here for my family because I had enough of seeing the world, this city, the villains, tear us apart. I won't let it further break us apart, not while I'm still alive."

The two stood and watched one another. The butler with a fierce gaze to do what he must for the people he loves and cares about. And the former Bat who is trying to find ways to move on, move forward, so he himself can be as useful as everyone else. Yet, they can't seem to find common ground for one another.

Because their bond was the very thing that ignited the unity in the Batfamily. Now its up to them to bring that unity, yet likely without their strong bond they once had.

The oven made a ding sound, meaning the chicken was just about done. Selina would come rushing in, "I GOT IT!" Alfred somehow with his eyes widen slightly at seeing the women mad dash her way to the oven, step to the side to let her take it out

"Careful honey," Bruce said watching as she took it out with the oven mat.

"I'm not a clums, honey," she set aside on the table, watching as most of the food they had in store was just about done, "This is gonna work," she had a smile on her face that differentiated from the poker face of Bruce, and the frown from Alfred when eyeing the two, "This dinner is gonna work for everyone that's here."

And who could deny the glowing positivity from misses Kyle Wayne? Even when they were just arguing, they couldn't help but smile for her.

---

Barbara and Dick drive to Wayne manor was rather muted with the radio playing some music mix between what's new and old. It was the only way to keep the air between them from being intolerable. While Dick was behind the wheels, renting a car for this type of predicament, he too wanted to say something. But he couldn't out of shame knowing that he was in the wrong, knowing that all that stuff he said hurt his best friend, and knowing how much he lived up to his name because of it, 'God… This is getting too complicated… The drugs are helping, but only making things worse for me,' Dick said to himself, as he uses one hand rub down his face, 'But I can't stop, if I do, then I won't be of use to help everyone,' steeling himself, convincing himself whatever he was doing on the right, Dick focused on the road as he drew ever closer to Wayne Manor.

Barbara stared out the window, watching her own reflection, watching her own glasses, her own red long hair, her own lime like eyes, all staring back at her. This was her way of dealing with the silence, the fact she won't look at him, to observe him, to simply find out what is going on with her long time friend? She's stopping herself from doing all that just for a moment, and in hindsight, to stop being Oracle. Oracle is the woman who must find an answer to everything wrong in the world, to do right by others and write the wrong in the world she lives in. Right now, she doesn't want to embrace who she is because she's too focus on how hurt she still is from their conversation earlier, 'How could he say that..? Why would he say that? There were moments Dick had…Done awful things, especially with me that involved twisting, or using my feelings for his gain. It's why we never pan out or stay as a couple, and kept to us being friends. But even so, he never stooped so low into comparing our trauma, and propping his being stronger as mines… It could be the drugs he is taking? Maybe I need to figure out what type of drugs are those,' she wanted to sigh, but then it would give away her own thoughts so she held it in, 'Or maybe they're just simply normal drugs and I'm overreacting, thinking outside sources have a play on his personality change. Maybe I should talk to Koriand'r, find out what really is going on with him since she's the only one that has spent the most time with him since his recovery. But…It never was easy to talk to her, even now since she hasn't been on earth for sometime...No..I just...Need to stop being Oracle for a second, a minute... I haven't been this focused as Oracle in sometime, and I can feel the stress coming back from it. Nothing I can't handle, but I just need to breathe,' so she does, 'Just...Breath...'

Too focused on breathing, she didn't notice Dick trying to get her attention when reaching towards the mansion, "Babs," her nickname being called out, however did the trick, looking at Dick who then gesture that they were by Wayne manor, "Is it me or is the place…Glowing?" In the palm of his question, Barbara took notice that Wayne manor was now lighting up more than usual. The mansion itself now looks a bit less gloomy and dark just from the outside alone.

And they both can see from the window of the living room that Selina was running around with a broom in hand while likely shouting at Bruce to help clear things up. It left Dick confused and Barbara scratching her own head, "She really is going all out for this huh?"

Dick nodded, "I'm surprised this is happening at all. You would think Bruce's presence would complicate things just a little bit."

"Who knows," just as the moment of conversation between them started, it fell back to silence with Dick turning off the engine and getting out of the car. The backseat had the wheel chair Barbara needed to be able to maneuver wherever she needed to go. Dick would help her, both out of the car and onto her wheelchair with relative ease.

He did this so many times it was like second nature to him. In a brief second, their eyes met one another knowing how the other felt in an instant. Dick sighed as he went behind Barbara to help roll her in the mansion, "What I said hours ago…It was out of line," Barbara would let him continue with his apology, not wanting or needing to interrupt him, "Your right that I would never say something like that, not even to you of all people who was in the right to tell me what I need to hear," he would stop shy away from the door, "But I did.. And I'm sorry for saying that. I feel like…Even now, I'm still hurting you when I shouldn't."

Behind her, Barbara looked up to him, noticing how sorrowful he now looked, "..Whatever is your going through Dick, you know you can tell me right? If not me, maybe Koriand'r?"

By saying that, he was considering telling her, telling her why he's now the way he is, the problems he still or has been dealing with, but Selina would quickly open the door stopping from him making any sort of mention on his end, "Why isn't it the little Robin and Batgirl!" Her smile spread ear to ear, first hugging Barbara before quickly going to Dick, "Let me look at you properly mister!" Grabbing his cheekbones, Selina checks to see any signs of damage on the pretty face he's known to have.

Even checking the body, poking it, tapping, and even the odd part involving his ass before going back to right in front of him. She hugged him, allowing Dick to find himself so confused of the extra mile she went into looking at him. Like a mother that missed her son who had been away for sometime, "It's uh…Great to see you too Selina. But was all that necessary?"

"Necessary?!" She glared at him when removing herself from the hug, "Of course it is! I haven't seen you in person for a whole year! And look at you! It's…" For a moment, she took this in. Seeing Dick standing in front of her, baffled and all, "Really good to see you again..." her tone became a bit more somber, "See you standing, walking, talking properly..." A quick breath in and out, she removed her somberness, "Anyways! The two love birds should be here anytime now."

Dick and Barbara would share a glance at each other, knowing full well, it won't be anytime soon they'll show up.

---

North Gotham

Gun's were being shot out from a vehicle as Cassandra was driving her Batmobile, chasing after some crooks she cracked down on a drug operation. The guns didn't make a dent on her vehicle as she kept right on their tail.

"WHERE'S MY FUCKING ROCKET LAUNCHER!"

"RIGHT HERE HAMMERHEAD!"

"TAKE THE FUCKIN WHEEL THEN!"

Hammerhead, clad in a black suit yet having a distinguishable giant forehead, put himself out the window to take fire on the Batmobile, "I DON'T CARE IF YOU SURVIVE THIS BAT'S! I'M NOT GOING BACK!"

He fired, Cassandra saw an opportunity knocking, 'Heh..Too easy,' she drifted the car sideways so the blast would impact on the side. The car withstood the damage, yet with how Cassandra curved the vehicle, along with the momentum of the projectile hitting the vehicle, it caused it to flip in the air. Timing it right, the car went over Hammerhead vehicle, and this allowed Cassandra to eject out the vehicle simultaneously right on top of the car.

The Batmobile made sure to land properly and move out the way remotely while Cassandra handle's Hammerhead. She first would take him out; swiping the rocket away, and kicking him hard enough out of the vehicle. That big head of his helped break his fall say the least. Cassandra would then flip herself right inside the vehicle, breaking the windshield, and easily putting the driver to sleep with the usage of her momentum when breaking the windshield. She took control of the vehicle, slowing it down but not too much where its speed would flip it.

But she also had to swerve and weave past other incoming vehicles to get it under control, and she did so with success. Ironically, the damaged vehicle was parked outside of North Gotham precinct. Seeing in her mirror that Hammerhead was getting up a block back, she hit the vehicle in reverse to catch up to him. He tried running, oh how he tried running, but once Cassandra caught up to him, she was out of the vehicle and tackled him to the ground. Being on top of him, she had control of his arms and posture herself in a position where he couldn't push her off, "I'M NOT GOING BACK WI-" With quick succession of hitting the nerves, Hammerhead went to sleep.

Another night of helping Gotham. Cassandra would then notice a crowd of people watching her, some recording, some kept walking out of fear, but there were also those that felt the need to speak up, "SHE KILLED HIM!"

Behind her cowl, Cassandra eyes widen from the misunderstanding, "No he's-"

"I say good riddance."

"He's ac-"

"Why can't you Bat's just stay gone!"

"What y'all screaming for?! It's Gotham! We all know Bat's would've killed sooner than later!"

"But pass on to others?! Jesus fucking christ!"

"Hey leave the lady alone! Least she tries out here to do some good instead of taking away our homes!"

"Get the fuck back to work!"

Cassandra tried to explain the situation, but she couldn't. How could she when everyone had their own opinions and she couldn't just say that she was different. She couldn't be different from Batman. After all, she learned from him, and sooner than later as one person said, she would kill like him, she would kill again.

"Who cares about that! Look at the street's from that chase!" The bystanders pointed out how she handled the car chase that was more than one. Few blocks down had several cars causing traffic problems.

She knew she needed to take care of that. She heard a notification from the cowl, and saw on her fixed up gauntlet that brought up a mini HUD of Selina asking where she was at, "Shit."

She was gonna be late, very late, "Need to pick bread," and that would make her even more late.

---

Old Gotham

"IMBECILES! WHAT DID I HIRE YOU FOR?!" A man with a pure white face, and sharp teeth as a shark shouted when running away from Spider-Man, as he was busy taking down his man with relative ease.

"That's what I've been asking myself, oh great White Shark!" Peter quipped when webbing up and taking down the great white shark goons. He either left them hanging on a web, web up to a wall, or outright knocked them unconscious with his amazing speed, agility, and coordination of his attacks.

Soon the great White Shark was back into a corner, and Peter dashed right to him with a simple knee he held back at the last second when it impacted his stomach. In an instance as he let the air out of his stomach, the great White Shark was knocked out cold, "Alright! Now for the final!" Peter sprayed webbing right under his pants, and left him hanging on a light pole where essentially, the criminal was having a wedgie in his sleep, "Another crime boss bites the dust. Maybe I have time to drag most of them to the police station," Peter would tap the mask so the HUD would bring up the time. And his eyes widened behind his mask as he didn't exactly have time as he wanted to do all that, "Crap! Better hit up Dewolff for this clean up!" he shouted to himself as he urgently leapt out the window and began swinging with breakneck speed, "I still need to get the whine on the way!"

Somethings for Peter hasn't changed, and being on time for important stuff was one of them.

---

Barbara would wait by the dinner table near the living room as the majority of everyone was prepping for the Wayne dinner. She couldn't help but feel useless in that she wasn't able to help out as much, what with her being stuck in the chair and all. In doing so, she would distract herself by calling up a special someone, "Do you want me to be there?"

"No Ted you got more important things to deal with such as your company for example. And you also need to monitor that heart of yours too."

"Pish posh! I could be there in a heartbeat, butttt I know you want to handle this by yourself so I won't budge."

Barbara smiles when moving a strand of her hair from her eyes, "If you can't tell, I'm smiling."

"Oh you are? Fantastic! I'm doing something right!"

She giggled, "You're saying you've been doing everything wrong?"

"No I mean with this relationship since everything else I have to make sure I'm right otherwise the planet could go boom. And I love a certain someone enough that I can't let that happen."

It warms Barbara's heart to hear him say that. Never in a million years Barbara Gordon would be dating Ted Kord, the once famous Blue Beetle that helped out the justice league and justice society from time to time. They had a brief thing going on sometime after Barbara had to get used to her new life being in a wheelchair. While she did love their time together as he did, they both decided that they work better as friends, colleagues of sorts that help each other out. Yet that all changed a year ago, and Ted became someone she can really rely on, someone she can talk too, laugh, smile, great and be patient with sex, and overall, it was the kind of love she had never felt for someone like him. She wouldn't be lying to herself that it sometimes felt like she was dreaming whenever they were together or even talking from a far.

But this was reality, and Barbara loved this part of reality. She loves Ted Kord as much as he loves her, "Save the smooth talk when we see each other again soon. Now! I must go to deal with family stuff."

"And off you go my beautiful mistress. I'll be dreaming of you in my boring meetings."

"Remember Ted-"

"I know I know I know. Love you Ms Gordon."

"Love you too Mr Kord."

Hanging up on each other, she saw Alfred putting some more food on table, "This all looks amazing Alfred."

He smiled at her thoughtful gesture, "Why thank you, but I can't take all the credit for today. Miss Kyle Wayne pushed herself to help me out, and also…Pushed master Wayne to help out too."

Spotting the frown when talking about Bruce, Barbara figured it was the time to ask about that topic, "I...Have you… Talk to him?"

"We had words, yes, but the less that said is the better. Today is about family and not the drama that comes with it."

"Your Right, sorry about bringing it up," he waved off her apology, "Do you need any help with anything?" She asked, hoping she can do something instead of nothing.

"No, but talking to you has always been a pleasure," his smile came back, allowing Barbara to smile also, "How's Mister Kord these days?"

"Heh, he's bombastic with how busy he gets with his company. But he takes pleasure in the work he can put out then being a superhero. It's good for him that he can do good without being a superhero. Especially with his heart condition."

"I'm very please to hear he's doing well, and that your always happy when talking about him."

She snorted, "That obvious?"

"Quite Miss Gordon."

With their conversation dying down, they took note of Selina ordering Dick and Bruce around, "MAKE SURE THE CHICKEN IS IN THE CENTER! WATCH HOW YOUR RUNNING DICK!"

"BECAUSE YOUR RUSHING ME! CASS AND PETER WON'T BE HERE FOR SOMETIME!"

"WRONG THEY'RE ALMOST HERE! BRUCE! FIX THE SALAD!"

"What's missing?" Bruce asked calmly compared to Dick.

Selina looks at the salad and at Bruce, "Dash a love," Bruce eyes shrewd, perplexed by what she meant. Selina would simply kiss his cheek, "Handle with care."

"COMING THROUGH! HOT HOT HOT!" Dick shouted once more when weaving past the husband and wife with more hot food to be put on the table.

It was amusing to see the authority that Selina had on the two men in the eyes of both Alfred and Barbara, "She's been acting a bit motherly, hasn't she? You don't think she's…"

"She is surely open to it, Miss Gordon. It's just the matter of Bruce," Alfred said.

"Either way, the child would be in good hands. Selina being how gentle and authorian she is nowadays. And Bruce…Being Bruce."

Sending her uncomfortably with the mention of how Bruce can affect a child whenever he has one, Alfred looks to steer the conversation away, "Or perhaps will see the chaos this family could bring and revel in it by giving us a massive headache. Just imagine Miss Cain and master Parker's child."

Barbara felt herself groan, "That would be more of a nightmare and I wouldn't have them near my home. Or better yet, if Dick has his own child with Koriand'r."

"Dear lord, you'll have the most normal child out of the bunch."

"Maybe, there's always Tim and Stephanie. 2 against 3 isn't so bad right?"

The pair couldn't help but share a chuckle of the prospect of what the new generations would like in the future, full of hope, wonders, and mischievousness all wrapped in one.

---

Cassandra's Batmobile made it to the cave. She quickly took off her costume, its own technology making it easier to come off, but she also left it standing as a statue in chase she needs to hope back in if the city needed her. She made sure not to forget the bag of bread she bought when heading out of the Batcave. As she knew from years of her time in the Batcave, Bruce made sure to have multiple entrances to the Batcave. Instead of the clock that led into the living room, she would head to a back entrance that had either a stare or an elevator. The elevator would've led to a wine cellar Bruce had for special occasions if he hosted parties in the past, but the other stairwell would lead to one of the spare rooms upstairs.

Rushing as fast as she could, making sure the system recognizes her as she padded her feet impatiently, she was late, and she needed a quick shower due to the smell of constant sweat and odor. The door slid open, and she ran to the shower, the shirt and pants she had on were already being taken off when running there. But oddly enough she bumps into Peter, who just like her, was naked with a batch of clothes he would wear for dinner, and a box of wine he held in his other hand. They stared at each other, for seconds, maybe even a minute, they hadn't had this amount of alone time since their argument. They've been avoiding each other, both letting the other get their own space, but also needing to contemplate what to say to the other.

For Cassandra, she wanted to figure out a way to say sorry, to better explain to Peter that she doesn't want to die, but to be tested with her life, to prove to herself that she's strong enough to keep going. But even that would make it harder to repair what's being facture. She wants to keep him, wants to keep being who she is, but as Selina told her, something would have to give in the end. Either her happiness or Gotham, she couldn't have it both ways, and she doesn't know what to do or say to Peter that would make her genuinely sorry for hurting him.

For Peter, he wants to tell her that he was sorry for pressing on her, but at the same time he wasn't sorry. He wants to see her happy, being the best version of herself that he knows she can be, and it was about time he started trying to be a partner that wants to help her more than just the physical side of things. For all the time Cassandra tries to push Peter into doing something that makes him happy, or keeping his life as balanced as it possibly can be, Peter wanted to do his part in doing the same. And therefore, he wants to be better, stronger, not regressing as he tends to do when life gets tough, and he owes it to everyone to be his best self.

In a nutshell, they both were in a predicament that they didn't know how to tell the other person that they love one another, and they wanna be a stronger partner.

"I can.. Go later. If that's what you want?" Peter said first.

Cassandra shook her head, her hair waving back and forth with how long it was getting and it wasn't in a ponytail to control the length "No, you."

"No seriously, I can wait," Peter would again be adamant of being a gentleman.

Cassandra again shook her head, "I insist."

They weren't gonna win this and both knew this very well. They both have too much respect for one another and they're too stubborn to bow out in terms of respectfulness. It didn't help that due to this, the air was unpleasant for the two of them. There's so much that needs to be said, so much that needs to be done, and yet they couldn't get the words out. With time passing by, they had to stomach that feeling for the time being. Peter held his elbow out for her to latch onto, "Together?"

Cassandra looked at it, then looked at him; he was always the one taking the first step, to do what's necessary first, and deep down, she hated that she didn't have the confidence to be like that. To be able to choose first for both of them, for their relationship, for their love. It's always Peter doing it, and she always follows through. Breathing in and out, seeing as for the time being she'll keep following through his lead, she slings her hands through his bicep and nodded, "Together, like always."

They went to the bathroom, putting their old clothes in a bin with others that needed washing, made sure to put the bottle of wine and bread next to one another, and took a shower in the cold water. While it might've been quiet between them, they still did what they always do and took care of one another. It didn't take long for them to finish showering, yet unexpectedly, Cassandra didn't dry her skin as Peter did, but instead grabbed a shaver, and shaving cream. Peter looked at her with his eyebrow raising, "Cass.."

"Late as always, need to look good," she motioned Peter to sit on the toilet seat. His eyes rolled, and he sighed seeing this was gonna happen whether he liked it or not. He followed through with it while placing his towel to cover up his private section. She applied the shaving cream with ease, then began shaving Peter's beard. Peter watched her, watched how focused she was to get this right, to make Peter look good, not only for himself, but for her too. It was a family dinner and she wanted him to take more appreciation of looking good as the others probably did for themselves. And furthermore, it was about time.

Because she hated him with a beard plastered under his face.

He didn't move, nor did she make any mistakes when clearing out his beard. By Peter's count, it took her no less than two minutes to shave away his beard, and it had to be the usefulness of her years with experience of using weapons with precise precision. Peter didn't need to look in the mirror to know it was good, in fact, he trusted her abilities that she made it good. And so it was his turn, "Nah ah," Peter patted the toilet seat, making her tilt her head in confusion, "Your hair is getting longer, gonna need taking care of."

Her eyes rolled just as her boyfriend once did. Peter had a funny way of getting his tick for tack revenge, and that annoyed her. She replaced him where he once sat while he got scissors behind the mirror. He too made sure to put the shaver and shaving cream away before he got to trimming Cassandra's hair. Unlike Peter's beard, Cassandra's hair would've taken a little longer as Peter had to go from side to side, back and front to make sure the levels were adjusted right. Just like Peter, Cassandra trusts in Peter and his abilities to take care of her, and she watched him as he was so focused on getting it right, getting her to look beautiful.

Soon enough he would finish, smiling at the prospect of his workmanship. Her frontal hair now only reached by her eyebrows, just as the sides while still reaching past her ear, now had two locks that showcase the length, and the back was taken care to only reach the base of her neck and not near the top of her spine, "There. You know we're super late right?" Cassandra found herself giggling as she nodded, "Don't laugh, this is your fault."

"My fault? You wanted revenge!"

He gawked, making himself offended by that notion, "Revenge? Please! You're the one with the whole vengeance thing."

Again, they share a laugh with one another, as if nothing bad happened to them and that they're proper boyfriends and girlfriends once again, "But come on! We gotta go now!" Peter puts away the scissor while Cassandra takes care to flush their hair in the toilet, and soon they go dashing to get a new set of clothes.

Peter didn't forget to dry off Cassandra before they put on some clothes. The woman was so focused on him that she got to take care of herself, and luckily, Peter was always there to make sure she's taking care of.

They slap some casual clothes on, Peter with a simple long sleeve shirt and pants, while Cassandra wore short sleeves and shorter pants compared to Peter. They both made another dash back to the bathroom as they couldn't forget the box of wine and bread, and went rushing downstairs. The Bat and the Spider made it to the kitchen, with everyone there. Waiting for them, "Sorry!" Cassandra made it a note to come out with an apology first.

"Bad guys were at play," Peter brought out an excuse, something he's too familiar making one for himself with why he's late to things.

"Evil needing to be pay."

"Ooo! That's a good one!" Cassandra giggles as Peter bump shoulders with her.

Everyone wasn't surprised, but Selina wore a smirk when watching the two, "That, or you two must've had some fun without us noticing."

"H-hey we did not do anything you think we did Selina!" Peter said while Cassandra stood idly blushing.

"Cassandra's face said it all!"

"We just took a shower and did some hair cutting!"

"AND FUCKED!"

Dick face palmed at the situation at hand, "Selina pleaseeee! Not today..."

"Dick. Hush. No one bat an eye when you were having sex with Koriand'r in the morning before our breakfast."

"IT WAS ONE TIME! CAN'T BE WORSE THAN JASON SNEAKING IN ROSE WHO'S THE DAUGHTER OF MY NEMESIS!"

And so, the dinner was off to a great start.

---

Dinner was going by, it wasn't too lively with the people around the dinner table, but it wasn't too silent. Dick and Selina did the most talking around the table, with the few like Peter, Barbara and Alfred commenting on whatever the topic was. Similarly, Bruce and Cassandra would stay the most silent as they ate, and they sat far from each other while close to their significant other, "And there's this really great waterfall they had that actually doesn't affect my skin, the tree's are lust, animals are actually wild, but a good portion of them are friendly. I'm still amazed Kori was ruling over the new Tamaran plane with this much profound respect and kindness that it desperately needed," Dick said, talking about his time recovering in New Tamaran.

"And how was the recovery there?" Alfred asked.

Dick took a sip of his wine before answering, "Relaxing, rejuvenating, the technology they had there was very resourceful in my recovery. Sadly, Komand'r wouldn't share tech with us, she feel's I'm the only decent human bean that she can tolerate."

"Wait just you?" Selina spoke, "Didn't she have a thing for Peter once upon time?"

'Ah god..' Peter did not want to remember his time with Koriand'r sister, 'I wish I could bury myself to avoid this topic...Wait no...Ratherrrrrr not do that. Getting buried for 2 weeks inside a casket that disturbed the symbiote is still something I dread remembering...' Even now it wasn't good to remember those grueling two weeks of no ounce of food or water while the black symbiote was suffering from constant weaknesses that almost got killed along with himself. Peter took a moment to drink his wine in one fell swoop to get rid of that memory, 'And so! I must confront this head on,' Peter made amends to himself just in case anything goes south when talking about this particular topic, "It was more of a fling than a thing Selina."

Cassandra, while silent, felt her eyebrow raised when looking at Peter. It didn't go unnoticed that she was looking at him with curiosity above all else, "Fling? That's what you..Called it?" She asked, with a little edge in her tone.

"Well it was, we weren't really seeing each other and we were just in it for the um… Sex," Peter proceeded to bite down more of his food, "Either way… I was dealing with a lot back then so when she left and ended our fling, that was it, end of story. Not much to write about or say about."

"It was more than that. You… Had something more with her…Why put it down..? Why you…Always avoid it..?" Cassandra inquired. Was it because it hurt him? That he wanted something more than what he got? She wanted to know why he was putting that relationship down specifically compared to the other women he had been involved with. She wants to understand why this relationship in particular isn't something Peter wants to talk about or remember as much as the others he had, others that were either worse or not so bad.

Peter felt his mouth twitch at how much Cassandra was digging for an answer, "Cass there was nothing there and I rather we leave it at that. All you have to know is we're still not on good terms and there likely won't be a time we're we'll be on good terms.."

Cassandra would simply nod, respecting his wishes and not wanting to cause anymore trouble between them. Everyone can hear how voices dip into irritation and it causes the table to go quiet momentarily. It was one of the problems everyone here knew would happen.

The past being a topic on almost everyone's mind, and sometimes, recalling seems to bring about an uncomfortable feeling. That not everyone seems to have moved on from whatever troubles they had.

Cassandra placed her feet on top of his under the table, and lucky for her, her affection was left there so he took in her apologeticness.

"Miss Cain," Cassandra's head pops up from her food, and looks to Alfred in question, "How has your drawing been?"

She quickly smiled, "Good! Wanna see?"

Peter's eyes widened, knowing her last drawing was of him, half naked and all, "Uhhhhhhhhhhh, don't think it's a good idea."

Cassandra frowned at Peter, "But it's you! Everyone loves you!"

"Except for those who don't like his chatter."

"Hey! People love my chatter!" Dick held back his laughter at the falsehood of that.

"What was this drawing firecracker?"

"Peter sleeping!"

Selina grin mischievously, "Naked perhaps?"

Peter could only keep his head down, blushing at the prospect of himself being the talk of the table again, but this time being naked, "He was covered! Said it was really…Good!" Cassandra loudly kept saying, not helping Peter's embarrassment state.

"Cass you're killing him. Look at the poor guy!" Barbara pointed out.

"I'm already dead Babs!" Peter planted his face on the table, playing dead, "Bleh…" In turn, Cassandra kissed his cheeks and lips multiple times, "Ok ok! I'm alive!" She kissed him one more time for good measure.

Alfred, feeling his pain, decided that he would try to save him from the embarrassment, "You really want him to die that fast Ms. Kyle Wayne? It seems that I'll just have to believe it's really good as he says Cassandra." Alfred said

"Almost sounds like she's not far from being drunk," Barbara mentioned.

"I am not!" Selina responded, but her case wasn't being helped since her cheeks were a little flush.

"It would be a shame to find out your lightweight honey," Bruce's voice spoke out, annihilating his quietness.

Selina's eyes sent daggers to her husband, who now took in the satisfaction of being just a bit smug from his comment, "You did not just call me out!"

"No, but still, it would be a shame if you're just a bit tipsy," he took a sip of the little whine he had compared to his wife.

"Oooooo! Are we hearing a drinking contest here?" Dick said, instigating the situation.

Selina scoffed, chowing down on her food before she could respond, "I would so win and we all know it."

"Peter would," Cassandra said, easily and sharply.

Peter accidentally swallowed his drink wrong, ended up coughing in the process, "..Whoa.. I'm a lightweight here, not even a drinker Cass!"

"Technically, you're the only one here who's body is subjected to both superhuman capabilities," Barbara pointed out.

Peter stared at Barbara with a plea in his eyes, "Babs!"

"I'm just saying," she said with her hands up.

"PETER! DRINK WITH ME!" Selina shouted, raising the bottle of wine near her that Peter got. Peter shook his head, "CASSANDRA!" Holding the bottle in both hands, it looked like she was praying to god to bless with her chances here, "YOUR MY ONLY HOPE!"

In turn, Cassandra's smile grew on her face before reaching Peter's ears, "Sex."

Playing like nothing happened, Cassandra went back to eating, and Peter had to think about the options of all that is happening, all that will happen when he starts drinking.

But, when was the last time he allowed himself to have fun? Around friends, family, people that care about him? People that love and appreciate his existence? "Oh what the hell."

"YES!"

---

It was an utter small chaos between Selina and Peter. Each drinking tons and tons of whine, the good kind, and the great kind to get them drunk. They were also drinking while standing on their respective chairs, "IT'S THERE 15TH BOTTLE AND THERE STILL GOING FOLKS!" Dick said like a commenter. While Peter tried to downplay himself, he was fairing way better than Selina would, who look to be more buzzed, and going slower and slower to drink her share. Peter wasn't struggling as much as, "WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THIS BABS?!" Dick asked her, using the cup as a mic when popping the question.

"Peter is winning, no chance," She commented, finding the situation in front of her entertaining.

"AND CASSANDRA! WHO YOU GOT WIN-"

"Peter!"

"ALFRED! WE NEED AN ANSWER HERE TO WHO WOU-"

"Peter," Alfred answered in the back when washing the plates.

All was that left was Bruce, "MISTER WAYNE-"

"No comment."

"BUT MISTER WAYNE! THE PEOPLE WANT THE IMPORTANT ANSWER NOW!"

"The answer will kill me."

Just when he did answer, Selina simply stopped drinking, sitting back down on her chair, and letting her back relax in the chair behind her, "...Liar."

"AND WE HAVE A WINNNNNNNNNNNNNNNER! LET'S GET AROUND OF APPLAUSE TO THE UNDERDOG THAT IS PETER PARKER!"

There was a small round of applause as Peter bowed from his victory. The likes of Cassandra added the wooing too, "You… Said you..r…. Lightweight!" Selina babble out while hiccupping. She lay herself more on Bruce's leg for added comfort.

"This is just regular wine Selina," Peter sat down, "Not like it's anything like vodka or rum. Multiple of those probably could leave me wasted. Probably since I haven't tested out in a while."

"But wait a second! This proves Selina is a lightweight!" Dick shouted. It caused Selina to raise her head, glaring at Dick but couldn't say anything back at him this time, "Hey it's now true Selina!" She gave him the middle finger.

"How rude Miss Kyle Wayne! You should show some more respect on the table!" Alfred said.

"Come on Alfred, she's too wasted for that," Barbara said and giggled.

"And you do have a point Miss Gordon."

"Point? She has a huge point Al, but I do apologize Selina for hur-"

"SHUT IT PETER!"

Suddenly Bruce laughed, actually laughed. Not hysterically, not with tears, not those forced laughter he would tend to do for public sake, and not with any sort malicious to it. Bruce laughed, enough where everyone had their eyes on him with curiosity. And they too couldn't help but have their own shares of chuckles and giggles more.

Even Alfred and Cassandra, who all the more out of everyone is still very uncomfortable with Bruce presence, wasn't swayed to laugh low, quick, or again, fake. But real laughter's with everyone around the table.

This small moment indicated so much, that regardless of what happened to them, to them all? They still love one another, and still consider each other family. The love never died out, nor went away because of Bruce. It's still there, still lighting the fire in the darkness that tries to surround them

Once everyone stopped, Bruce noticed everyone was looking at him including his wife underneath him, "...Sorry…." He let his hands rub his eyes, "Sorry… I… Don't deserve any of you that are here… Or...Being around you people that is.. I took a huge leap coming back here, following my head, and I'm taking a bigger risk staying here...With people that somehow...Still cares enough to keep me here.." He then let out a stressful sigh, but with the comfort of Selina holding his hands under him, he knew he had the will to say what he needed to say, "... I know I still have so much to make up for you, to all of you, and to those that aren't here… But I'm glad we had this dinner… I'm glad for everyone being here."

"..We're…Glad you're here Bruce," Selina was the first to respond.

"It's.. Complicated as ever, still lots of wounds need patching up, but come on Bruce, we won't abandon you," Dick next said.

"We'll always be here for you, Jason, Tim, and Stephanie would say the same, especially in their own ways. As Dick said, there's still wounds needing to be healed, but who are we if we can't try to help one another get better?" Barbara said.

Alfred didn't say much, his small smile and nod said everything.

"Of course Bruce. For how much you did for everyone and anyone, we'll always be here. We may have had our ups and downs, but that doesn't take away the fact we owe you a lot back for how much you helped everyone here to be a better hero and person." Peter said.

"...Family. All Family. Family sticks together," Cassandra was the last person to say.

There was a brief silence before anyone said anything, letting the dinner, the conversation, the drinking, and what Bruce said being taken in. They all needed this, every single one of them needed this. To reassure them that this family, with all its problems, is still here and not broken.

"Can I stay here for the night?" Barbara asked.

"Sure."

"Why…Not!"

"Always."

"YES!"

"Of course!

"Who even owns the place anymore?" Dick brought up. With how Peter and Cassandra were the one's doing the living more than anyone else. Bruce ended up pointing to Cassandra, "Hey wait a minute, as your first adoptive so-"

"No! Mine!" Cassandra shouted with a smirk plaster over face.

"So not fair! Peter back me up here?!"

"Can't do," with how easy the response was, Cassandra leaned more towards Peter, "I will get gang up by both the Bat and the Cat," he pointed to Selina who was still laying on Bruce's legs.

Dick groaned and shook his head, "So whipped."

"Dick, everyone here besides Babs, Selina, and Alfred, is whipped, including you."

This is what Dick couldn't deny and so lost the battle of being able to own the mansion. And yet, ever so slowly, Alfred smiles at seeing his family being at the very least, happy in this moment.

Chapter 11: Soul

November 11

Wilson Fisk was an impatient man when it came down to things not going his way. For the past few weeks he's been residing in his private home where doctors regularly checked to see if his health would stay at a good healthy pace. So far, he was healing rather nicely seeing as he was standing firmly on his two feet. As he stood on those same feet, he watches a woman lie on her bed head, tubes in her nose, skin very pale, lips dry, needles in her veins to have her body system needing the nutrients to go on, and worst of all, her eyes close shut as he watches the woman he loves falling away from him further and further.

His hands clutched between one another, his expression was filled with anger, sadness, but frustrations to no end. All he seeks is a cure for an incurable disease, but so far, nothing was going his way, 'The Spider interfere with Freeze, and now my partner in the dark grows tiresome of my failure,' Wilson said in his own thoughts, 'How far have I fallen? To the fact that I, Wilson Fisk, a once powerful man in the underworld that grip most people by their very throat, and held their lives dangling in front of them as I took control what I wanted, what I needed...' his eyebrow furrowed as his thoughts became more and more negative at remembering what he use to be, 'Has the world change so much that I can't be as powerful as before? Or is it because I can no longer catch up in the world that's ever changing, ever growing, to the point all my battles with various hero's beyond the Spider and the Bat, has only served to foil my plans,' it was then his large hand stroke the dying woman cheek. He did it slow, with no ounce of weight put into it, and with the utmost care, 'All I wanted was to build an empire for us...One where it means our future could be locked tight. I couldn't change, I know you wanted me to change Vanessa...Old habits, die hard...' his stroke was stopped, and his hands fallen by his side, 'Maybe I'm suffering in a hell I put myself in, where the sins I committed is all coming back to bite me, but I won't die...Not yet...'

Someone knocked on the door, "Come in," Wilson spoke. He didn't need to look at who was meeting him to talk to him about a few things, "Wayne meeting in a few hours. Everyone's ready to do their part in convincing him and Al Ghul?"

"Of course Mr Fisk-"

"You don't need to call me that James," Fisk turned to the man that was his confidence, who kept his posture, the suit he wore, and especially the glasses on a professional level, "You've been at my side for the longest, against the likes of Murdock, the Bat's, the league, and especially Spider-Man."

"Heh.." James pushes up his glasses, "And because we're friends, you deserve my respect as always. Now, we have a team to expose them, enough where if we went public with not only Al Ghul's past terrorism projects, but also Bruce being something we never could've assume for the years he's been in that costume, it'll surely be enough to gain a better outlook for your partnership with-" James squinted his eyes, he heard as if a body just dropped nearby, and a few muffled groans coming by the door. Wilson caught it, and knew people were coming for them. James covered the door by the side just when Wilson pulled out a pistol near the draw by his dying wife. James awaited to hear something, anything, but he couldn't hear anything of note. It meant that the people coming after his friends were professional's.

While his job is to protect Wilson from anything, he couldn't protect himself when his own head had gotten a bullet straight from the window nearby.

Wilson had no time to react, no time to do anything but try to protect his wife, yet the door was kicked open, revealing someone who would have resembled the Bat. With the little bit of sun gazing out to the window, and would showcase their strength and speed they impose by simply closing the gap and grabbing Wilson by his neck. While Wilson was a very heavy person, this person didn't dare to pick him off the floor, but punch him right on the nose, dropping him, and kicking his pistol away from his hand.

Beyond sharing a resemblance to the former Batman; they had a sword that was now pointing right at Wilson's chin, raising up his head, along with a sword, a shield behind their back. Their metallic armor was mix with bit of blue, red, and all around gray, a symbol of a white A on their chest, shoulder pads and shin pads resembling those of a knight from centuries ago, and a mask that whiles light up blue, was distorted enough that no one could tell who was under the mask, and of course, had an established pointy ear like a Bat, "H-how…?"

This Bat person pushed Wilson to his back to let their sword pass by their chest, all the way down to their ribs where it then revealed an invincible chip that they easily sliced, "If I knew," just as their mask was distorted, so was their voice, "Then they know Kingpin. And don't bother calling for help, just like your friend over there, they've been dealt with."

Eyeing his now falling friend for a second, Wilson shut his eyes for a split second before resorting glare at the figure who put their metal boot on his chest. They press on the specific part he was both stabbed and hurt by the carnage killer, making him groan in pain, "Grr…I gave you everything… EVERYTHING YOU NEEDED! YOU CAN'T DOUBLE CROSS ME!" He yelled in anger at the betrayal he's being dealt with.

Adding the pressure by resting their elbows on their knees, causing Wilson to yell out in pain, "Come on whiskeeey," they're voice easily switches to a jester-like tone, "Did you really think you will stick to being useful? That I would've given you want to save your oh, so, poor wife in front of us? Or did you really think I want you exposing who Bruce is, or more accurately, was?" The last sentence thread to threatening territory, "No no no!" They wagged their fingers, "Can't have you ruining my plans for them."

Wilson's eyes softened, turning his gaze to his wife, the only person who was still alive he could love, "...Please…She's all I got," he spoke with desperation, nothing more and nothing less, "I don't care...If I die...Just please! Save her at least..!"

The bat-like person moves inches closer to Wilson's face, "Everyone's gotta go sometimes. Least she gets to go peacefully, a gift for having to help me have what I want," they then let go of their foot on Wilson, allowing him to sit up and clutch his chest, "Because now! Everyone will know of my reckoning!" they stood behind the window, where sun was now blistering through it, "Gotham will know of the Knights of the sun, they will know chaos once again when I bring him back, and they will remember me, the Arkham Knight," the Arkham Knight pounded their chest, "As I strike down on the people that protect this city. The Bat, her family, and her Spider."

And so, out of the shadows comes another threat to Gotham. One that showed no mercy to Wilson, as they plunged their sword right through his heart. Wilson's eyes widened, a small moan was let out, an air being gone, his heart being bleeding out profusely. The Arkham Knight then looked at the women lying peacefully in the bed awaiting for death doors. They would walk towards her, but Wilson still had some strength, still had some ounce of life in him as he held their feet.

The Arkham knight's head turns to Wilson, as he struggles to breathe, struggling to hold onto his strength, but all the more, fighting for the one thing he wants to save. Yet the Arkham knight hums to themselves, even snorted, "Love is tremendous isn't it? The very thing that can make you fight so hard so that the other person can live," they snickered, the distorted voice only added more to their dark nature as they left their metallic boots big enough for Wilson to let go.

And so, they took the plug off of Wilson's wife, Vanessa. The Arkham knight could see Wilson eyes widen, before it went still, before it looked cold, before its own hand couldn't reach for his own wife.

And so the once Kingpin that held Gotham and New York by their throat, is now dead with ease.

Allowing the Arkham knight reckoning commencing with no more interruption.

---

Cassandra rode around Gotham. She's been doing it for several hours now and stopping at a stop light, she raised up her helmet vision so she could rub her eyes. She couldn't lie to herself; she was tired, not just because of the amount of times her and Peter had sex last night, but also how much she's been pushing herself these past few days. It didn't help that her body was still feeling sore from her fight with Carnage and his family. The costume protects up to a certain point, and even then, she isn't invincible no matter how much Peter had done to give her enough protection from facing meta's or aliens prowess.

But she also couldn't deny if anything, last night was relaxing for her and Peter. The dinner was a great step into fixing up what was broken, there obviously was still hurdles that had to dealt with, but the makeup sex she had with Peter was a bonus into the right direction, 'Can understand more...Why Selina says its good for both...People to have it,' she said to herself. She and Peter still had to find time to confront some problems they have with each other. The when part is the hardest part now that Gotham has to deal with the likes of Carnage wanting full on destruction of this city, and also, an unknown player coming into light after killing Wilson Fisk a few hours ago.

If Cassandra felt like she was careless on that front. She of all people should've been monitoring the Kingpin properly. But no, she was too caught up in family, too caught up with Peter, too caught up with all those emotions she dealt with yesterday, 'If only I didn't had dinner...If only if I didn't let feelings get in the way...Then this new threat would be...Known..!' she slammed her fist on the windshield, 'DAMN IT! MY FAULT! NEED TO BE BETTER!' In her silent anger, Cassandra had to calm herself. It didn't help that upon investigating the place, she couldn't make heads or tails who's behind all this.

She's not great as a detective, but she knows how to see the aftermath of a fight. The three things she took away was that there was more than one person; they were very good at assassination, and it was deliberate enough that it looked like whoever did it wanted her, or Peter to find out. They could've got rid of the bodies, but they didn't. Everything was laid out for her, and it unnerved her to see it all.

The arrows.

The bullets.

A person's neck being snapped.

Not to mention, poor Wilson's wife was also dying with her husband, who's heart was stabbed.

It shook Cassandra to her core, that it only served to pissed her off, 'Will pay. I will stop them,' she vowed to herself as she would put back her visor on and get back to riding around North Gotham island as she was in, "Anything guys?" Barbara asked on the open coms.

"Nothing," Cassandra said, her tone of voice not daring to hide her anger.

"Same here, I'm just about to go back to filming some interviews for Vicki," Peter also commented.

"Clear sky up here and nothing going on for the moment," Dick mentioned on his end, "Were we able to track who the Kingpin was talking to in the fundraiser?"

"Unfortunately no," Peter said, "What we did find was that they were using some type of networking to bounce their signal from one place to the next. But also, so much happened in the span of a few days that it was something that I never put my focus back to."

"Not just you. Me too," Cassandra said, adding on to what Peter stated, and not wanting him to have the fair share of burden of letting this criminal slip under them, "Careless. Can't be careless here on out."

"Regardless of what, we will apprehend these foe's. We're monitoring on our side here just in case anything else happens where neither of you can't reach," Alfred noted. While he had a point, Cassandra hated that they were becoming careless and have been careless. And they can't be, not when things are starting to get out of hand. It's like the control she and Peter had for sometime was now being out of their reach.

In the process, that control was being motion into the hands of chaotic foe's approaching them.

---

For years and years of observing, watching, and being mindful of surroundings, something was twitching in Bruce's mind. It was supposed to be a usual meeting he had at Wayne enterprises. Mostly it was supposed to be about shareholders talking with him on what's next, business involving ways to make Gotham a much better place to live in, what's new in the technology world, or some other things that should be useful to everyone. He won't deny that it's been a little difficult with handling those certain things by himself. He used to have Lucius to help him out with this, and now it's mostly been him having to keep things in order.

It's not like it was difficult because it wasn't, it's more so that his mind hasn't been as focused on his company for a while. And that had to do with how much he changed from a year ago after killing the Joker. Sometimes like today when thinking about Lucius, Bruce wondered if he would still help him after what he did. It was likely a no because he wouldn't want to have anything to do with Bruce at all. In fact, his family is the answer he needed to think about what Lucius would have done if he was alive. Yet, he wasn't, and it still pained Bruce he couldn't save him or his son.

He knew the risk, he knew the stakes, and if anything, he died a hero that day when confronting the clown and saved the rest of Bruce's family. Him and his son both did, and Bruce would've done anything to give them a second chance if he could. It was another long list of failures that still protrude through his very thought no matter where he's at.

Bruce was then shaking out his thoughts by his wife, who looked worried at Bruce, "You're doing that usual stare honey."

"Which one?" He pulled out a smirk as he wrapped one of his hands into hers, "I have so many."

She leans close to him, tippy toeing on her heels, looking gorgeous with one of his jackets she took from him and a simple cargo pants, "The one where you're eyeing everyone as a potential threat."

He still kept his smirk when she noted one of the things involving his stares. He would wrap his other hands around her waist, able to feel the leather coat she wore as it was starting to get more chilly with winter coming along. He pulled her in close, kissing her cheeks, as he watched the multiple people coming to the meeting, "Wilson's men are here," he whispered back to her.

She didn't very much like the way he said that, as if they're potential threats more than just annoying people, "Probably wants to trade more tech."

"Unlikely, since all this just so happened on short notice. I got a phone call on the 4th that told me of what was gonna happen. It was very odd and should've been run through me way early on."

"So you feel like they may try something?"

"Maybe," he shrugs, "Maybe not, but it's best to plan ahead. With what happened to Fisk, none of this should be happening in the first place. So either they're here to discuss something involving what Fisk wanted for the company-"

"Or something else is lurking," Selina said, finishing his line of thought.

"Exactly," Bruce's eyes squinted when from the corner of his eyes, he took note of a peculiar someone rounding the corner, "You might not want to turn around honey."

The second he said that she might've guessed who he was talking about, "Don't tell me…" both her tone and expression switched to displeasure.

Selina didn't need to turn around as this person came right by her eye view. Once she saw her, she scowled at the person she hoped to god she wouldn't see since she wanted to leave before her appearance showed. Elegant as she walked, she held power into the people that walked behind her just as various people couldn't help but stare at how breathtaking she looked and breathed in Bruce's own building. Her skin resembled dark olive, her long hair was as brown as her eyes, and her clothing, while being a bright white suit along with boots applied to it, had a green overcoat on her that was mixed with gold residing on the edges. Something that was a symbol to her group and heritage she holds a firm grip on.

And she had a playful smirk when coming into the two Wayne's spaces, causing Selina scowl to harden, and for Bruce to be more curious of her sudden appearance, "Mister and misses Wayne, pleasure to see you again. It's been what? Several months since we last saw each other?"

"Should've stayed that way," Selina's tone was kept sharp as she looked to remove herself from Bruce, yet pride in her was so damn high due to her own husband keeping his hands around her waist.

"Why I'm hurt," She faked her discomfort quite easily while gesturing to her bodyguards to give them some privacy, "After all, you've won in the end when we last fought 2 or 3 years ago when he purpose to you. You've fought for him to the point I lay down my own weapon, therefore, I have no need to take what you already have gotten."

"And yet, you still forget that I've claimed him before you ever could, Talia."

Talia snorted, "Because he put a ring on it? If I were to say I bear a child for him before you could, you would sim-" Selina eyes widened just as her anger flared momentarily. If it wasn't for Bruce holding her back with his one hand she would've gladly wiped the smirk off her face, "React like that. But sadly, I was never that evil to bear a child with Bruce without his permission. I may be cruel, but I'm not as evil as my father was," there was a small frown that became present for a second at the mention of her father.

Something that still shadows over head till this day of all the things he had done, and all the things she's trying to wash away into making her own legacy away from him.

Selina's eyes roll at the irony of her statement. She would've spat more back to her if it wasn't for Bruce clearing his throat to shed away the tension, "It's good to see you again Talia. I didn't expect you to show up. The call I had about this surprise meeting never established your appearance."

"Neither did I, how odd, yet I'm prepared as you are if anything just so happens to go down," she remarked, not being shy or quiet of what she just said, "Seems Fisk wants to see me yet again for another stupid proposition for the both of us.

"Ha, seems you've haven't been keeping up with the news in Gotham," Selina said, causing Talia to both now frown, and have her eyebrow raised. A small reaction for her to beckon more of what she means, "Wilson Fisk is dead."

"Really?" her eyebrow shrewd, "So not only even in death he's still being torn on my side, why are we even having this meeting in the first place?"

"As Bruce and I came to terms with, everything here just smells fishy to begin with," Selina once more asserted hers and Bruce's awareness.

Talia found herself scoffing, "Usually my league would notify me of what occurred, guess it didn't seem as important with how he has fallen over the years," this little comment had gotten Bruce to raise his eyebrow, "I assume Peter and his lover is investigating what went on?"

"Already have, monitoring the city as we speak," Bruce spoke boldly of the heroes'.

"Well not monitoring enough."

"This is why they took a very dislike of you, beyond the fact of you working with your father."

"Even you," her smirk came back, widened just a bit, dancing between playish and a devil kind of smirk, "Beloved?"

"Oh you bitch didn't just say that shit!" Bruce again held Selina back, seeing that people were watching them with interest.

"Let's keep things professional, especially in front of my wife Talia," Bruce calmly spoke.

A Little small snort came from Talia as she enjoyed infuriating the former Feline in front of the former Bat, "Only teasing, I wouldn't dare cross your counterpart."

Selina scoffed, "Sure you won't," breathing in and out so she can mellow herself when looking back at her husband, "You'll be fine today honey?"

"Of course honey," she pulled him into a kiss, one that lasted longer than a second, and possibly more than a minute. Selina's eyes couldn't help but share a glance at Talia; she may still hold a smirk but she knows that smirk was not holding well.

Again, her pride and ego went skyrocketing high knowing that Talia will never have this man by her side. Not while she's around. She could have at one point had Bruce, but somehow by god's graces, neither pursued what could've been. Maybe it was because Talia really did respect their marriage, or that Bruce had some common sense into keeping his marriage intact, 'She can do whatever she pleases, but I wonder if she knows that he went to me for everything and anything to bring the type of justice my father would've wanted,' Talia thought when Selina departed from Bruce's lip, 'Even so, his love her prevail in the end when Cassandra defeated him and i'll take this to my grave if so be it.'

Selina smiled and nuzzled his nose, "Call me?"

"On the dot."

"You better," she would depart from her husband, slowly letting go from him and his hands. She exchanges a scowl look at Talia, just as she exchanges a grin on her face while having her arm crossed. Now it was just Talia and Bruce, "So, onwards?"

They did so, with Talia guards from the league of the assassin maintaining their post by walking behind the two powerful people in front of them, "I don't have a choice in the matter anyhow."

"Because Mr Fox isn't around?"

Bruce didn't answer, but instead went on his phone before approaching the room. He needed to make sure Barbra and Alfred kept tabs on Wayne Tower. All this felt odd and unexpecting that no one was made aware that Talia would be here.

Let alone Fisk men without the man himself, here to talk about something.

---

In the parade that was being held in Miagani island near Robinson Park, Peter was just about finishing up with Vicki interviewing the people holding up the parade for veterans day, "Annnndddd cut!"

Vicki would thank the person she was interviewing for their time, just before she was able to decompress in front of Peter, "Finally, you know how much I hate doing these?"

"The interview or parade?" Peter asked when fiddling with his camera before turning it off.

Vicki gave him a once over, an eyebrow arch as she saw that little loopy smile he does when asking questions he knows better on, "Don't do that," he chuckled as he was caught easily, "Anyone can do this, even yourself."

"Careful Vick, almost sounds like you're having a superiority complex right there."

Vicki eyeroll at his remarks. Regardless of the mood he has been in, it was never a dull moment with him, "You know that's not what I mean. I hate when Robbie places me for these things when I can be out doing something more, like pursuing more on the carnage killer."

"Robbie has faith in you to not turn it down and make it really good. Plus," Peter and Vick would start moving elsewhere as they watch the amount of military members take to the streets, prepping their movement and rifles for the parade, "Jameson loves his pupil the most."

"Ugh, I know, I know and speaking of," Vicki pulls out a folder from her small bag and hands to Peter, "For whatever time I had, I gotten down some more stuff on the carnage killer from the help of Mr. Bullock himself. These were hard copy files they had sent over from New York, something that's often get overlooked for filing stuff like this online," Peter would let the camera hang on his neck via the strap he had on when taking a look at what's inside the perhaps big folder.

And just like before, what he found more about Cletus was not something to take lightly about. The folder had images of when he was younger; from kid, to teenager, and to adulthood. Each involved murder's and trauma's that he went through, a bit more in-depth from what he and the rest gathered in the Batcave days ago, "My god…Killed a girl over a rejection? Went foster homes to foster homes.. Each involving the adoptive parents mentioning of his psychopathic characteristics...Hell, some of them were reported missing? And finally went to jail at 18 for burning one of the foster home's..? How is he out?!" Peter almost shouted. He felt himself groaning and became more frustrated at the notion of someone like him being out.

Peter hated how easily the justice system can fail when it shouldn't. It not only makes people's life much harder, but also their work more meaningless when people like him can walk free so easily, "And look who did it," Vicki flipped the page for him, seeing a more recent picture that was drawn in court of not only a lawyer defending him of sorts. But also the bald head himself, Wilson Fisk in the background. It only made Peter more angry at how flexible people like Fisk can be when money isn't a problem to get what they want, "Seems the reasoning for the court session that the lawyer proclaim all he needed was help and the right treatment," Peter scoffed, "Not only that," there were more stuff in this folder that involved Vicki and himself take a seat on a bench so they can properly scavenge all that she got, "This here Frances Barrison," what Peter found odd was how sick this person looked compare to the person he saw helping Kasady; her skin was way more pale, her expressions, her eyes, to her dry mouth displayed the usage of drugs in her system, even her own hair was quite in healthy state with part of it shaved off, "She was a drug addict, same as with her mother, has a few charges of battery and assault, attempted murder, and guess what?"

Peter found the next page to be obvious, an enrollment to a health ward held by the now deceased man, "Fisk."

"Not to mention, from what little of what Bullocks got outside of Gotham; she is a meta, who also likely was experimented on before or even after she met Cletus. Couldn't find much on where the meta part came from, but I do know she wasn't born one. It's a far-fetched hypothesis, but do you think Cletus was experimented on too? Just Like Frances was?" Vicki questioned.

Peter found himself frowning at all that is being known today. Everything was linked to Fisk, everything involving this ravencroft in some way was linked. It was the epicenter of it all and that's where they'll know more about these psychopaths. But, Peter wasn't so sure if knowing about their past was a way to defeat them and it didn't help that Dick found the place torn apart, 'Obviously, we'll have to dig further,' Peter thought to himself about ravencroft, 'But the real problem is that someone like me can't leave Gotham with a villain such as Kasady running around doing god knows what. I trust Cassandra and Dick to hold down Gotham if I have to, but right now I can't, not when Kasady can use his symbiote to craft an army.'

If anything, knowing more about Kasady and the lack of a real motivation that's simply tied to Peter, only makes his appearance even more frightening. Constantly watching as hundreds of people were here for the parade didn't stop Peter's paranoia from going off the chart right now, "Possibly, and oddly enough, it has something to do with Eddie," Peter said to his reporter partner, "Because there was no way a new symbiote could be formed without the help of Eddie Brock, but I have no clue where he's at, or if he's even alive."

Vicki in some semblance, wishes she can do something about that far off gaze Peter would do. One that looks to bear the whole world on his shoulder, like it's his sole responsibility to make sure everyone is safe and the criminals are far away from them. But what could she do but provide some comfort in the fact that he isn't alone? "We'll get them, for better or for worse."

Peter nodded, it was all he could do when he stared at this folder that held the pieces of the past to the only known villains that wanted to bring a reckoning over Gotham head, "Peter! He's there!" Barbara shouted in his ears.

His eyes widened, looking in every direction; front, behind, diagonals, his spider sense didn't go off and that made him more frustrated he can't use his six senses to its fullest capabilities. It's then he saw a specific person in a building far away from Robinson park. Squinting enough, he was just sitting on the tall building, legs dangling off the roof, as if he was waiting for his plan to come to fruition. Vicki took note of where he was looking, and while her vision was not like his, she can tell he has eyes on the murderer.

It's all written on his scrunched up face, "Vicki, get as far away from the parade and make sure you notify any GCPD that he's here. And get a hold of Dewolff for me! He has something plan!" Vicki had no time to respond as Peter gave back his folder, and even his camera before dashing off to do his thing, "I just know it!"

---

Back in the Batcave where the bat computer had eyes on everywhere, but also important eyes on where it was needed. Barbara on her end was monitoring Robinson Park, already seeing that Peter was swinging in his costume to meet Kasasdy, "Is he still there Oracle?!" Peter asked.

"Yes, please be careful Peter."

Peter didn't say anything in return, only focusing on the task in hand. In the next end, Alfred was monitoring Wayne tower just as Bruce wanted them to do so just in case. It's not until he saw their security cameras being tampered with, all of it shutting down like an emp device, or some outside force shutting down the systems at Wayne tower. It was an odd thing that occurred with Alfred and Barbara looking at one another with curiosity, but they were certain of one thing.

Something also was going down in Wayne tower.

Luckily Bruce thought ahead as always when situations like this come about. There was backup power that showed just enough of what they needed. Switching it on their end, Barbara was able to get other cameras that weren't open to the public eye as she and Alfred saw exactly what they were worried about. A small army at the main entrance, either using guns, crossbow, knives, swords, and other weapons that were mix between the old and modern, to brutally kill the security guards with their hands. An also smaller army was present on top of the roof that just so happened to also kill a few security guards.

But also a few of Talia's league of assassin members. It was quite shocking that had Barbara even more on edge, 'There's no such way they could've gotten the drop of Talia's assassin's. Who the hell are these people?' Barbara questions herself, becoming increasingly frustrated that her camera was being tampered with by an unknown device scrambling the image. She was only luckily able to see someone of similar design as Cassandra and Bruce costume leading some of the group on the building, "Batwomen! You're needed in Wayne tower now! Enemies are fast approaching both high and low level and likely will meet right in the board meeting. Be careful! They're good enough to kill some of the league of assassins!"

"Moving! At Miagani!"

Alfred and Barbara briefly shared a glance, both worried of what is transpiring, and how suspicious these events are happening to one another.

---

It didn't take long for Peter to reach Kasady, at best, 30 seconds as he had to ditch the clothes as his vest was underneath it, put on his combat shoes, and mask for the incoming rematch.

He landed behind Kasady, who still sat and watched the parade with a smirk, "So this is what a psychopath does for a living nowadays? Watching from afar? Scoping out people to kill?" Peter said, ever the quipper even in a stressful situation.

"Come on spider," Kasady turned his head to Peter, his eyebrow arch, and was very pleased to see his hero once more," No one is really innocent, not even you."

"Heard that a billion and one times, so hey!" Peter got into his fight stance, "Let's get this over with right here and right now. Cause one way or another, that symbiote is gonna be burned and you're going back into a cell with keys being thrown out."

"Ah ah spider!" He wagged his finger as he stood up. "If you stop me, then how will you save those innocent people on the ground?"

Peter's eyes widened, 'Of course! I knew Kasady would be up to something. But what? My spider sense isn't given out any danger and I was sure to scope out the environment too. What did I miss? What detail was beyond me to even consider?' His brain was computing so fast that it didn't take Peter too long for him to get Kasady's master plan.

The people, the parade, the amount of cars nearby, vehicles that were also moving important people, it was so obvious that Peter couldn't help but deprecate himself silently for not noticing it, "...Don't tell me you've had that symbiote to mask planted bombs."

"BINGO!" He pointed and clapped at Peter, "I had enough time to understand that tingling in my skull whenever I'm in danger, and I bet you have it too. But then, my symbiote started probing me with info from daddy, and what did I find out? That your little six sense can't detect us so easily. It's why you weren't so fast in our fight! It's why our fight was so, dreadfully, amazing! So tick tick spider. You got people to save, as ever."

Peter hated this, always hating to fight the same type of maniac people that ends up hurting the people he has to protect, or the people he loves dearly. It's a never ending battle with these types of people that makes his fist clenched tightly,"..IS ALL THIS JUST A GAME TO YOU?!" Peter shouted, his anger flaring as his tight fist was ready to throw down right here, right now, "WHY?! WHY HURT SO MANY INNOCENT PEOPLE?! BECAUSE OF ME?! BECAUSE YOU WA-"

"BECAUSE IT'S FUN SPIDER!" Kasady shouted back, but more out of excitement than anything else, "AND IT'S FUN THAT I CAN GIVE YOU SOMETHING TO FIGHT FOR BECAUSE LET'S FACE IT! GOBLIN, JACKAL, KRAVEN, OCTOPUS GUY, JOKER, THE MANY OTHER VILLAINS YOU FOUGHT OUTSIDE YOUR TERRITORY, AND DADDY AREN'T HERE ANYMORE TO MAKE YOUR LIFE MISERABLE! MAYBE IF I KILLED THAT BAT GIRLFRIEND OF YOURS, NO WAIT! IF I KILL THE WHOLE BAT FAMILY, I CAN BE YOUR NUMBER ONE VILLAIN! DOESN'T THAT SOUND GREAT?!" Kasady laughed as ask such a derange question, "BECAUSE...Because it does for me Spider!"

Peter roar, charging at Kasady, his laughter not stopping, his laughter reminding him of all the villains that made his life filled with trauma and misery. But he didn't want to fight him, he knows what he really has to do, and like it or not, he can't compete with Kasady right now. He leapt over Kasady, and nose dive right into web swinging, 'No one dies! No one dies today! AND NO ONE I LOVE WILL DIE, NOT AGAIN!' he mentally shouted, "Oracle-"

"We heard! His symbiote was able to bypass our early scans of the area, but with enough retooling in our scans, we were able to find those bombs! But Spider, there are civilians who're carrying bombs without them knowing."

Peter shook his head, not letting worry, not letting stress, not letting anything stop him from doing what's right, "Nightwing! Gonna need your help here."

"Don't need to ask twice, almost there! You get the civilians, and I'll track the other bombs."

"We need to do this right. We don't play our cards right then we'll cause a mass panic here," Peter mentioned, "We need to carefully burn the symbiote so we can take care of the bombs."

"We got this!"

Of course they did, but after that, Kasady would be the problem. He was getting a call from Captain Dewolff and had to split the call away from the Batcave, "Captain! We got bombs in the area!"

"Shit! My man can't do anything with how everything is going!"

"Don't worry! Just keep the peace where you can! And round up whatever people you can get that have the bomb on them. I'll help point it out! Nightwing and I will handle the rest."

Peter sure hopes he and Dick can get to those bombs in time. Time was of the essence.

---

Bruce sat with the utmost of calmness in his seat compared to almost everyone in the room being impatient for the meeting to start. He knows what's about to go down, he knows from the message Barbara sent him, and the video of seeing what went down in the main entrance and what's going on top of the roof. He knows all of this, but knows he can't do anything about it. Sure, he can leave, sure he can escape, and sure, he can make sure everyone that was an employee either here in Wayne tower or else where can get out safely.

But then he won't know this new foe that is becoming present in Gotham, one that's been hidden for sometime, something Peter and Cassandra couldn't put the time figure out due to being spread too thin. And they picked a hell of a time to come out when apparently Kasady has plans of his own in Miagani island.

He trusts Peter can handle it, because he's not alone anymore. And he trusts Cassandra will be here when everything will transpire, because she's too not alone. The only real troublesome thing Bruce can think of was not being able to call Selina but to simply text her. He certainly knows that this, and not calling him, will drive her up the walls.

Bruce: Don't want you to worry when you soon see the news, but some nutjob dressed in what seems like a bastardized version of my suit may take me and several people hostage.

Miss Kyle Wayne: WHAT?!

Bruce: Love you and see you later.

Bruce also knows Talia was in the same bracket of knowing what happened. But oddly enough, she wasn't doing anything about it, which led to his curiosity, "You're not going to do anything?" Bruce whispered to not alert the people in the room.

She kept her eyes glued to her phone upon hearing his voice by her ears, "No, because I know you already have a plan."

"I don't."

Ever so slightly, her eyebrow raised, and she almost felt the need to stare in his eyes as he lied to her like that, "..You're lying and don't want to include me."

"I really don't have one," Bruce again sticks to his guns.

She could only scoff at how he was keeping her in the dark. She wasn't going to patronize him about needing to know whatever plans he had in mind. She simply would have to adapt when things go haywire. Suddenly, with efficiency, the army came through the window with such speed, entered the door frame with various weapons, and even blew open a section underneath them to grapple into the room, taking some of Talia's guards with them to the ground.

With all this happening, almost everyone panicked, hiding under the table, trying to leave but ended up getting put down. Bruce noted they weren't killing anyone in the room, except for Talia's guards that were put down easily with guns, arrows, or gorilla like warfare tactics. Bruce had to act surprised, shocked, and even scared at seeing the brutality that was going on in front of him. Even though deep down, he was already taking note's of this new foe, 'They're all trained to a high degree..Damn, now we have to worry about a trained army. This is already getting out of hand..'

Upon the entrance and confirmed kills occurred, this new Bat figure who led the group appeared through the roof as they created an opening to drop in front of everyone on top of the table. Just like this new Bat figure; their little squad had similar armor to them resembling a medieval knight, having padded armors from head to toe, even their helmets while not hiding their faces depending on them, had a pointy ear established who they work for. Bruce took note that their armor protected the integral parts such as head and body, unlike their leader that is, 'Likely under the presumptions' of going toe to toe with Jason if he ever does come back,' Bruce noted to himself

Bruce and Talia kept their heads down, not hiding, but at least playing like they can't do a thing about it. Bruce was aware that one of the soldiers was recording everything that would or had happened in this room, "Ladies, gentlemen," said the distorted voice coming from the Arkham Knight. They were basking in their own presence as fear ripple amongst the wealthy that weren't Bruce or Talia, "You all ate well," the Arkham knight slowly walked amongst the table, "All tried so desperately to help this city when it didn't need it, it never did. So as I'm here, making my official presence known. I want to tell you all, and the people of Gotham," now their sword and shield now in hand, but also, pointing the sword towards Bruce who out of reflexed, let go of the mask of fear he had on when the Arkham Knight appeared, "None of you are safe from us." their head turned to Bruce.

For Bruce, he would have laughed, snorted, anything of the matter as he knew this person did a bit of research, 'So...They took a piece of my look, and a speech I've made a long time ago when I started out? How ironic,' Bruce thought to himself before having to speak to this new foe, "Is that supposed to be a threat?" Bruce asked, almost sounding sarcastic in his tone. He lets himself stand on his own two feet. At the very least, he's showing that as owner of this building and the people here, he wasn't gonna coward away from the enemy.

"Of course mister Wayne! What else would it be? A joke?" They laughed so easily, and just so easily, they stopped, "Not this time," they slapped the hilt of their sword right at Bruce's nose, putting him down on the floor.

Bruce moaned at the pain he felt, but he's been hit worse that it didn't stop him from sitting up. The hilt did just enough to make blood come out, and break the nose "Why are you here? For me? Or for her?" Bruce said, holding his broken nose and gestures to the person in question, that being Talia.

It seems that from their posture alone, the Arkham Knight wasn't surprised by Bruce's deduction of the matter, and wasn't disappointed either, "Intuitive," They muttered at first, "No wonder you fool Gotham so easily. Sooner than later, you'll be my target," the Arkham Knight plops down, gesturing for their army to grab Talia, "But today someone else is."

Before any of them can grab her, Talia swiftly counters one of their army's hands, taking someone's cross bow and shooting at them. She focuses her shots on their exposed mask, or where their exposed armor padding could be, that being their ribs or their feet's, and swiftly dispatch some of them that are still standing with the sword that was hidden behind her.

Everyone watched, some of the army's didn't move under Arkham Knight order, and the Arkham Knight watched on little longer till Talia directed her weapon at the Arkham Knight. The blade being pointed right to their neck, "You think you can take me as so? That I will stand by, weak on my knees to your power?" Talia beckon with authority in her voice

The Arkham Knight tilted their head, signifying that it was indeed a stupid question to ask, and not being afraid of where her blade was pointing at, "I'm the one with an army that's still alive, even in this room and away from this room."

They were indeed right, but Talia neither cared nor showed cowardness as she stood firm in her own power, "Your people are trained enough to take on my people. Who trained you?"

Arkham Knight scoffed, resting their arms on they're sword was implanted on the table. Their army was still recording, all for Gotham to see, "That's a need to know business. All you, and everyone in this room have to know, is that I have my own network that can find and kill if need be. We are known as the Knights of the sun, and I? I'm known as the Arkham Knight, and soon to be Gotham's reckoning."

---

Cassandra didn't slow down a single second when making her way to Wayne tower. It was located down side by Old Gotham since it was made in the very early days of Gotham time. It did have other buildings residing in each island, but this was the main building that Bruce goes to for the many meetings he held there.

Weaving left and right to avoid traffic, taking sharp turns, igniting the afterburner, and pressing a little button in the back of her head making the helmet strapped lock and tight on her whole head, adding two sharp points on the top of the helmet, and adding just a little bit armor to it and her clothes that was into interwoven together. Cassandra was ready as ever for this incoming fight that she'll be having soon enough.

"Take the next turn here Batwomen," She did so without hesitation, "You'll soon be entering a construction site that will have not only works, but also a crane that will get you to the top building where master Bruce and many others reside. I managed to briefly take control of their elevator and crane system that you should be able to squeeze in."

"Only way?"

"It is the fastest way, but also the most unsafe. So please, do be careful."

"Ok," She went straight through the construction site. She dial the speed down a notch to not only avoid some construction workers but to cut these tight corners with ease. Somehow, she didn't crash into any of the workers or their material's, especially when she did a 360 turn that allowed her to squeeze right into the elevator.

Although, it just so happened someone else was in there who looked at Cassandra just as she did. She waved at him, "Sorry."

But all he could do was munch on his sandwich slowly as the elevator skyrocketed high above in seconds. The elevator opened to the top roof of the construction site and Cassandra was off again, leaving the worker more baffled then anything, "..What the fuck..?"

Cassandra quickly assessed what she can use to get on top of the crane; there was a metallic railing not set up for usage, but if she was able to blast the edge of it, it could send her straight up to the crane that Alfred was lowering for her. But once she gets there it won't be easy to stay on; the weight of the bike will not hold for too long, both wheels won't be able to stay on either when she begins moving due to the way the crane was structured, 'Need speed. Stay level. Wheelie. Then jump,' Cassandra's plan was already right on the surface of her brain. It wouldn't be easy, but Cassandra's body and mind was to do the impossible that most can't do.

She was raised by an assassin, learned from heroes, and mastered everything to be who she is now. She can do this, she must do this, people's lives are on the line. Most of all, Bruce's life was on the line, and no matter what had happened in the past, she won't ever let her true father die by evil, 'Won't die,' she rummage her hands on the wheel, letting her bike rip forward, 'I won't let you!' She was flooring at the speed she needed it. Quickly taking out her batarang, pressing a button to set it to blow, she arc the throw right at the railing, and once her bike reached enough to even touch the railing, the batarang provided a mini explosion under the railing. It was enough not to damage the bike due its strong reinforcement, nor the railing as both were lifted simultaneously high enough for Cassandra to reach on the crane. Upon reaching the railing, she was able to be positioned at the very end of the crane for the jump to be made, turning the bike on a dime, using her weight to move it forward, but move it quick enough where the u turn put her right where she needed to be.

Straight towards Wayne tower.

Alfred was now raising the crane, just as Cassandra rimming up the engine once more. Soon as it was beginning to be level high enough, Cassandra activated the afterburner on the bike, sending her forward. She then uses the weight of herself and the bike to perform a wheelie, 'Steady…' The crane was going higher, meaning Cassandra needed more speed, she revved up the engine more, 'Steady….' She was reaching close to the end, and she ramped up the speed even more, making the bike go unsteady. She then blasts the bike's afterburner just as she reaches the end, just as she couldn't hold the wheelie anymore.

But somehow.

Some way.

By God's grace.

Cassandra was able to pull it off, smiling ear to ear behind her helmet.

And she was sent flying high. Soring, and needed to flip the bike so she could have the landing she needed.

But her smile falters when she completes the flip, even with the speed she was going at, it wouldn't be enough to clear the distance to enter the top of Wayne tower. She may enter the lower level, but the goal was to best head straight into the main office Bruce and the hostages were in. However, Cassandra was a quick thinker, because she had a boyfriend and a family that helped enable her quick thinking to come on the fly. Both of her legs clicked on the lower side of the bike that kept her steady, and then she was ejected high above right where she needed to be.

"ARKHAM KNIGHT LOOK OUT!"

Arkham Knight had no time to react to Cassandra breaking right through. Her light weight armor and crossing her arms allowed to absorb the damage from how she entered, and also didn't stop her momentum from elbowing the Arkham knight on the left side where their jaw knocked them off balance, as Cassandra rolled right into the room, her back impacting from the wall that gave out a loud audible groan. Arkham Knight felt that, truly felt that through their armored helmet, but they snickered and pushed themselves off the floor, "So she arrives… KNIGHTS GRAB TALIA!"

That wouldn't be happening with Talia smirking and killing more of the knights. And it would take the Arkham Knight to get up quickly, block the sword with their forearms and give a swift head butt that dull Talia rather easily. But before they can do anything, Cassandra was up, running forward, throwing batarangs at the Knights of the sun, tossing a smoke so it could provide enough cover for the fight to happen, and of course, for Bruce to get everyone to safety.

Cassandra had her grapnel gun out when she tackled the Arkham knight right through a window, and shot the launcher right by the ledge so they could swing right into the lower floor. They both broke through another glass window, and the Arkham Knight pushed Cassandra off as they distanced one another. Both fighters were already on their feet, as if they didn't take enough damage to concuss them. The two stared at one another, observing each other, understanding one another without doing anything.

The Arkham Knight put away their sword, cracking their neck and rolling their shoulders for this fight.

Meanwhile, Batwomen was taking out shards of glass from her suit, and slammed her fist together, cracking it.

The Arkham Knight snickered, "Should've expected reinforcement, but more so the Spider than the Bat.. No matter..." The Arkham Knight got into a stance, a stance that made Cassandra head tilt. Behind her helmet, was bail eyes steadily widen, "Your not only one that learn something from Shiva," They spoke with confidence but an added snide undertone to get under Cassandra skin

Cassandra didn't respond back, '...Haunting me as always..Huh Mother..?' Her hands grip tightly, then she walks forward, confronting whatever part her mother had in creating this figure, then running so she can begin this combat, and finally.

The battle begins for good vs evil.

---

Back on top, Bruce was able to quickly handle the rest of the Knights of the sun. Each strike, each output, each force was greatly holding back when taking on these foe's. Thanks to Cassandra smoke, he was able to take them on without showcasing it to the people who were still alive in his office. Bruce struck at their weakest by hitting their pressure points, using the environment to smash their body through it, and being fast but also powerful to take them on.

He might've been not as in shape as he was before, but that only serve to make him stronger with the weight he's been putting on. Once the smoke was clear and the enemies' were taken out, Bruce would guide everyone to follow him, "EVERYONE! THIS WAY!" They did so, with Bruce looking at Talia to make sure if she was alright. But she waved him off, having a noticeable glare, but also an understanding, "I'll make sure everyone is safe. Clear the way to my office."

"An escape route?" He nodded, "Will be done."

"Try not to kill."

She smirked, but didn't answer when they separated to do their task.

---

Peter with the help from Captain Dewolff was able to round up a dozen or more people who had little miniature bombs on them. Not only that, Peter had his own spider bots both helping Dick scavenge other bombs and helping him disable them.

They had no time to call a bomb squad nor have any extra help at this time. Not only that, but the bomb squad wouldn't be familiar with a bomb tinker by Kasady's usage of the symbiote. For all Peter knows, that piece of symbiote could end up killing them on the spot, 'I don't know if these bombs explode, release toxin gas, or something far worse than that. Either way, if Dick and I don't stop these bombs from ticking, people will get hurt or die. Can't let that happen!' Peter swears to himself on that front.

"Mommy, what's Mr. Spider-Man doing?" A little kid being held by his mother asked. Peter couldn't help sympathize with the fact of his innocence, not being aware that just like his mom, everyone else was worried about what was going on.

"Please, Mr. Spider-Man is my father, just your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man doing Investigative work," Peter answered while his wrist from his suit was putting out a light cyan light to scan every individual that was gathered up here, "Top secret that would make the commissioner so proud," In response, Dewolff simply eyeroll, "See? She loves it!"

The child found himself giggling at Peter's sense of humor. The mother made sure to mouth of a thank you to Peter at keeping not only him calm, but her as well along with the other people nearby.

Peter scan was done for Barbara to do her work, "Ok, those are probably most of the bombs he planted on. A little micro sonic wave should do the trick instead of using fire and then I can dismantle it from here."

"Botta bing, botta boom," with a few notches to his wrist, he put out a sonic wave that wasn't powerful enough to hurt anyone, but enough where little bits of carnage symbiote were affected, dropping from the civilians without them noticing how small they were, "Nightwing, how goes your end?" Peter asks on his comm's as he lets Dewolff take care of the civilian's.

"Taking care of it right now! Spider bots were able to find multiple of them everywhere around the area. Oracle and Alfred we're able to dismantle them-"

"Shit no! There duds guys!"

"The real problem is Kasady's partner! She's nearby Master Parker!"

Peter's spider sense was blaring, turning right back to the crowd in the streets with all the veterans. Peter leapt high to the roof, using it as a vantage point where he then saw Kasady's partner, Shriek, walking with the veteran's and officer's. Peter's eyes widened, "DEWOLFF! EVACUATE EVERYONE NOW!" Peter yelled as loud as he could before maneuvering his way to her.

Peter didn't know what Kasady was planning, hell, he didn't even know what his partner was planning. But he can't worry about that, he has to save everyone here! Swinging forward to put a stop to her, he saw Shriek left eye brimming green light, both of her hands lighting up as if she was charging up, and before Peter knew it, before any cop could listen to Dewolff's command.

Frances ignited her own taste of carnage as she laughed hysterically. Everyone began to be affected by her power; making them scream agony, or suddenly turn to one another in the act of violence, "NO!" Just before Peter could stop Shriek from continuing her output in her abilities, he was stopped and halted by Kasady's red tendril wrap around his body, and tossed through multiple buildings.

From windows to apartments, Peter quickly used his webs, strapping a huge web bine behind him to stop his speed. The web and his weight from the speed he was going on both stopped, and pulled him back where he could launch himself in the same pathway he was thrown from. He made sure to keep his body narrow from hitting anything on his way back. Sadly, as soon as he came back, he only saw chaos in the streets of Robison park.

Everyone and anyone was fighting and hurting one another. And with Shriek no longer insight, it was up to Peter to stop this travesty, 'Come on Peter! No one dies under your watch! NO ONE!' Using his webbings to stop anyone from shooting from one another, hurting one another, Peter used his webbings to stop the many fights that were happening in the streets of Miagani island. From normal civilians, to policemen, to army veterans, everyone was fighting each other no matter what. And all Peter could do was move, move as fast he could, as fast as he can possibly go to save everyone.

He had to try, no matter what it takes.

No one dies.

---

If there's one thing Cassandra expected when facing down this new threat, was a fight, a proper fight. And that's what she was having; someone that was on her level, someone that matched her blow to blow, counter to counter, blood for blood.

Where she hit, dodged, the Arkham Knight did the same.

When she tries to go for a take down, the Arkham Knight knows and executes a quick way to reverse it to their own advantage.

But Cassandra did not quit, Cassandra wasn't gonna falter against someone like this. It was so odd, so familiar when fighting someone that trained under her mother, something Cassandra wanted answers on but knew she'll have to beat them first. The Arkham knight ducked under her spinning elbow for an uppercut that landed, and went for a quick grapple from behind for a supreme suplex.

Cassandra grunted on the landing, her helmet taking the blunt damage, but she didn't give in to the pain that was occurring. The Arkham Knight picked her back up and looked to try to go for it again, Cassandra didn't let it happen; elbowing the Knight once, twice, their grip was tight on her waist, but Cassandra had technique's to escape. Her rear leg stepped out from the Knight's position, using the back of her helmet, she let it hit the Knight's mask, buckling them back almost tripping, losing the grip, and allowing Cassandra to escape as she sent a flying tornado kick their way. The Arkham Knight ate the kick, allowing Cassandra to thrust with a flurry of strikes, and each strikes found their marks before moving forward with a piercing elbow that the Knight blocked, allowing both to be in a sort of 50 50 position where they had control of their arms, and the back of their head.

Constant knee's that hit one another, movements to try to throw one another balance off, elbows that were blocked before switching their position, they were as it seemed, evenly match even in this position. But Cassandra knows that the Arkham Knight didn't had eyes or mind like hers, seeing the knee coming, swiftly, her hand under-hook their leg and sweep them to the floor where Cassandra went down with them for an elbow strike, having the gauntlet stick out and denting their helmet. Now being in top mount, Cassandra let loose her fist on the Knight who had to block with her forearms. They quickly then use their hip to knock Cassandra off balance for them to quickly interlock their legs on from Cassandra arm's to her neck, gaining a triangle choke.

However, Cassandra quickly used both of her arms to give herself the opening where the legs weren't on their neck. Cassandra wanted to feel the strength of Knight, and she did so with how strong their pressure was compared to her own. Being nimble and quick, her right fingers touch the base of her hands, one by one, till spikes protrude out her gauntlet, being sent flying to the Knight's body and helmet, "GAH!" Being surprised by the move, their leg strength loosened up for Cassandra to slip in and swung her fist on their helmet. Yet, the Knight used both of their feet to push Cassandra off.

Cassandra kicks herself up.

Arkham Knight rolls back to their feet, pulling out the spikes with Cassandra notices the helmet starting to glitch one side of their face, and yet, it still hides their face.

Not stopping her aggression, Cassandra pulls out her batarangs and throws it at the Knight while rushing towards them. The Knight blocks them with their own set of gauntlets, and whips out their shield and sword as they now were changing up their rhythm of attacks. The Knight went for a simple bash that Cassandra braced herself with her arms crossed against their shield. The Knight might've been strong, but Cassandra wasn't a slouch either. In doing so, the Knight started taking the offensive initiative; swiping their sword that Cassandra dodge, defending against her attacks as she dodge with her shield, allowing her sword to find her mark by nicking them where their cheek was. Even if Cassandra slipped her head out of the way, the sword material was to pass through her armor even if it's just the helmet. Cassandra created some space by back flipping away and throwing her batarangs simultaneously, 'Stay moving, find an opening!' Cassandra told her herself. The Knight would aim their sword from gut to arms and legs, causing Cassandra to spend much of this time weaving, flipping, and slipping off their attacks.

What made the fight increasingly hard for Cassandra was how the Knight was able to almost think on her level in terms of anticipating attacks. Every time she saw an opening, the Knight shield was there and then the sword came swinging. Every time Cassandra can see where their strike will come next, the Knight then has their shield's on their gauntlet, causing the swing to be heavier and powerful. A well-timed kick was stopped by their shield, and then they headbutt Cassandra back.

Stunned, but not out as Cassandra kept making sure to stay alive. It frustrated her to no end of how she is able to see their attacks, but can't create her space to be offensive, "What's wrong?! Can't read my movements?!" The Knight taunted. Luckily this taunt allowed Cassandra to get the opportunity she needed, once their swing became heavy and slow, the opening came by under-hooking their arm, for a well time knee, to a drop kick that created their distance.

Cassandra backflips to land on her feet, least she knows that the only reason why they decided to use their weapons was because Cassandra had the advantage on hand to hand combat, "Mother trained you well," Cassandra commended as they stared down one another. With too busy in their fight, Cassandra was now able to hear the sound of many guns firing in Wayne tower. She can only hope Bruce was taking care of that, but also wasn't killing any of them.

The Knight again snickered, grabbing their sword on the floor as they had it hanging between their biceps and behind their neck, "Who's not to say I'm not your mother, Cassandra?" Cassandra didn't let that information get to her. She was busy trying to figure out who this person could be. It is almost impossible with their stature being more related to masculine, but they move as flexibly as a feminine person in their struggle of power over one another.

But to Cassandra, it also didn't go unnoticed of the Arkham Knight knowing who Cassandra was related to, and what's to say they didn't know Bruce?

Or Alfred?

Or Selina?

Or Dick?

Jason.

Tim.

Stephanie.

And especially, Peter. And once the gravity of knowing the type of power that the Arkham Knight may know, it means he or she had more cards behind their back. Cassandra couldn't allow that, therefore, she roared forward, dodging the fast swing with a slide, and yet quickly, stopping the slide with her hand, allowing to flare her legs in circular manner to knock the Arkham Knight balance.

It works, with Cassandra holding her body weight to then quickly handstand to drop her legs on Arkham Knight. They rolled, avoiding their attack and getting to their feet. Cassandra was already on the move, pulling out her batclaw, aiming the shield on her gauntlet where she then pull the Knight to her, they tried swinging horizontally with their sword, but Cassandra leapt over them, implanting an explosive batarang on the shield, aerial flipping back, it explored just before the Knight could attack, sending them to a wall cracking it.

The Knight suit and shield protected them from the explosion, but they were left little disoriented, letting Cassandra to spear them through the weakened wall and into another place. On the floor again, Cassandra was able to get behind them wrapping their legs on their body as they stood, then having one arm to their neck, that hand on their bicep, while the other hand was behind their head to be able to choke them unconscious. The Knight tried fighting, but Cassandra amps the strength to where even if they had armor, it only serves to choke them more, "Why Wayne?!" Cassandra loosened her strength to keep them awake, "ANSWER!"

Again, they snickered that only started to annoy Cassandra. She assumed even if they had armor that her choke would tighten their neck more, but it seems their armor allowed enough breathing room, "Not so... Detective huh…? But...You are good, great as your mother said you were.. Good thing I knew that."

Cassandra heard the helicopters coming right up to the level they were on. It was in front of them and it contained the Knights army who had their weapons aimed at her. They started firing at her, causing Cassandra to move out of their range. She quickly rushed outside the hallway, running straight to the stairs as they kept trying to gun her down through the multiple windows and wall. Throwing an explosive batarang at a nearby door for it to blow, she leapt through the door and down the stairwell to lose sight of the helicopters.

The Knight got up with their sword on their waist and their shield behind them. The helicopter would come back for them as they ran and leap inside with the Knights of the sun helping them, "Did you get her?"

"We got them surrounded in Wayne's office, they are barging down his door as we speak."

"Tell them to move faster! Wayne has an escape there!"

---

As known by the Knight's forces, Bruce and Talia were in the main office at the top of the building. Bruce manage to save a good portion of his employees using his years of experience fighting these types of people. And it helped that he had allies in the Batcave to not only alert the police, but also use the tower's few combat systems to their advantage.

Yet, Bruce wasn't fond of Talia's more killing route. She made their passageway to his office clean as possible, but left a trail of dead bodies in his wake. Here he was trying his best not to resort to ruthless means, and here she was tempting his fate into reconsidering what he should've done. It's an odd feeling Bruce had felt at understanding that seeing the dead bodies from the Knight's army was the right thing to do, but he knows if he goes down that path again, then the work he put in, and whatever trust he has with his family would crumble to pieces.

All he had to do was breathe in and out, remembering to control himself and not give into what he should've done, should be doing, "You know I did approve when you saw our way of doing things was right?" She commented on how Bruce handled the Knight's forces while also looking at the small frame picture that held his late mother and father, "I didn't approve of how you hurt not only your family but your closest allies as well."

"Not now," to a nearby chess board, he swapped the knight and king's places.

In doing so, allowing Talia to hit a red button under his table that revealed an opening that would allow them to move to another section of the building, "Just saying what I wanted to say for some time since we last saw one another."

"I said, not now!" Bruce almost yelled at the inappropriate time to be talking about the past. Both quickly jogged in allowing it to close behind them as the elevator immediately scanned Bruce. From eyes to his toes, it recognized he was indeed the real Bruce Wayne to be inside. But it went on high alert, blinking red lights when it scanned Talia.

"Warning! Enemy hostile in the area!"

"Computer belay the warning, password 03-30-1939."

"Voice command authorized."

"Hm," Talia leaned back on the elevator as she cleaned her blade with her clothes, "Always prepared, wondering what the system would've done to me?"

Bruce opened up his suit and took off his tie as the elevator brought them down to the laboratory that held countless of techs that were used and unused, "Gas you."

"And if I had a mask?" She had her eyebrow raised.

Bruce's answer was a simple glare and Talia could only presume it was something a little worse than a gas, 'Depending on it, maybe something that can kill me,' Talia found that thought quite funny.

Bruce quickly went over to the nearby computer with the space being cramped, but still had enough room for what needed to be done, "By now, they've gotten through, and honestly we have to prepare for the worst if they know of this place."

"You really think this Arkham Knight knows you that well?" Talia questioned.

"If that person knows a simple line I made years ago when I first started wanting to change Gotham a different way," he turns behind him to look at her, his glare still hasn't left his face, "Then it has to be presumed they know more then they let on. And not to mention, they want you of all people," the computer brought out a generator of sorts that seemed to be something they'll both have to step on for it to work, "That right there breeds problems."

"Everyone still wants the demon head on the platter."

"But they want you alive, which is the very question of today, and it's why you're coming to the Batcave with me."

"And that contraption is where it will lead us too?"

"A teleporter, yes. One that works similarly like the watchtowers own," Bruce can see through a security camera that they not only breach into their office, but they are now gonna blow up the elevator that leads to the laboratory, "Get on quickly!"

She did so with Bruce punching a number of key codes for the device to work. He ran right to the teleporter besides Talia, "And what about this place?"

For once, he smirked, "What place?"

The teleporter ended up doing its thing, drawing power from not only Wayne tower, but most likely other places in Gotham itself for it to work.

And as soon as they disappeared, the laboratory blew up.

---

"Knight! They just noticed that Wayne's secret place had just blown up."

The Arkham Knight slammed their fist on a window, cracking it, "Damn it!"

"Knight! We also got a boogie under us!"

The Knight went and checked what he meant as they saw the helicopter scanner was picking up Cassandra stuck under them via her batarang, slowly climbing to the entrance of the hanger, "Stubborn Bat are ya? Fry her!"

With a push of a button, Cassandra was electrocuted, not even enduring it was enough to stay on and she fell from the helicopter. She began to freefall, drifting between conscious and unconscious. She could briefly hear the likes of Alfred and Barbara trying to bring her back into consciousness. But how could they when it felt just right to feel the air around her? Her body flowing amongst the air she was falling? And liking the feeling of the wind passing by her.

It almost reminded her of the many times Peter would swing her around, freely moving at speeds beyond measure.

But then the cries of her name were getting louder, "CASSANDRA WAKE UP!"

"MISS CAIN PLEASE!"

"ALFRED I HAVE SOFTWARE THAT PETER DESIGNED ON THE SUIT! IT'LL STAB HER FINGERS TO WAKE HER UP! DO IT NOW!"

A sharp pain was felt on all ten of her fingertips that had to be Barbara activating an emergency tool to awake her. Cassandra's eyes widened quickly as the stark realization that she was falling more by the lower buildings of Old Gotham. Quickly pulling out her grapnel gun in her utility belt and shooting at it from a nearby building, Cassandra heard a loud pop from her shoulder, "AH!" Gasping from the pain of her shoulder literally popping out of the socket, she made sure her other hand held tightly as she could when swing forward at a tremendous speed.

In doing so, she crashed on top of the bus, and her body ragdoll itself falling right into a car windshield, both breaking it and going right through it.

At first Cassandra didn't move, her breathing from her nose being hard, her heartbeat racing, the pain and everything she was feeling from surviving such a long fall was coming and going. She needed a moment, just a moment to take in that she was alive.

She was alive.

She was alive.

She was alive, to fight another day.

Isn't that what she always wanted? This very moment where she needed a challenge? To fight for her life? To fight death?

Indeed, it was, pulling herself slowly from the car seeing as her armor suit took the blunt of damage, and along with her quick thinking to use the grapnel gun, she was able to stop any further damage to her body. In doing so through her broken helmet, a smile graced her bleeding lip. She found herself smiling at the prospect of getting exactly what she always wanted. Someone more to fight against for her own survival, people, villains with army's to put a stop to, she couldn't help herself revel in what she needed.

But then the adrenaline started wearing off, the pain from her fight, the fight with Kasady a few days ago, and the fall itself made her smile quickly falter. What then was replaced was the feeling of disgust at how she was accepting this, fighting these villains, has given her a purpose that she wanted, no, needed. It was that same feeling her mother always wanted to feel, and the fact that she, even for a second, accepted and loved that feeling, she felt truly a shame at knowing how Peter would feel if he knew about this.

'...Peter...That name, that wonderful man...Has to worry about another...Villain who knows of him,' Cassandra thought bitterly

She has to protect him, protect everyone, protect all that she cares about.

For Gotham.

For all that she loves.

And if she dies, she'll die for them.

Because their life matters more than her's. It's what being the Bat means to her.

"CASSANDRA! ARE YOU OK?!"

"MISS CAIN DO YOU READ?!"

Cassandra shook her head, noticing everyone was watching her, recording her. She felt her head being on fire, a little dizzy but still was able to stand as she relocated her shoulder back into place, "AH!" But not without feeling more pain. She even just noticed her helmet was cracked, meaning people can get a glance of her face. With the bit of migraine, dizziness that was going away, she might have a small concussion of sorts. But she was fine, fine as she can be. This wasn't the first or be the last of her concussion and she had long come to terms with what being a hero meant in the end. She steadily kept walking while slowly moving her hands to press a button on her wrist to summon her bike, wherever it was in the smoking Wayne tower before her, "...Fine. How's Peter and Dick?"

---

"BITCH I ALWAYS HATED YOU!"

"AND I NEVER WISH I MARRIED YOU!"

"FUCKING DIE!"

"I NEVER WISH YOU WERE BORN!"

"I NEVER WANTED YOU AS MY PARENT!"

"I ALWAYS HATED YOU SINCE WE FIRST MET!"

"COME HERE YOU PIECE OF SHIT!"

Peter doesn't know how he was able to handle all that was going on. Hearing so many people display their own anguish; from adults, to teenagers, to even kids alike being affected by Shriek's abilities. He's fought people on this magnitude that can reveal the worst part of a person. But to see it display on this level? Out in the open? On a parade of all times? Where the bridge between friendship and family, from right from wrong, crossed the line? No, not like this, not in a way where it made everyone from various ages fight each other.

To the death.

And it was up to Peter to do what he does best. Save everyone.

From what seems like an eternity, Peter spider sense guided him, making sure he both evaded but used his web shooters to stop everyone from fighting. He needed to stop the source of this, Which was stopping Kasady's partner Shriek. But how could he? Everyone here was turning this peaceful day into a nightmare. Sure, stopping the source meant stopping the madness, but then people will get hurt, people will die if he doesn't do anything, and he couldn't afford to find her right now as he made the decision to focus on the people rather than the villain.

'All this...All this violence reminded me of No man's land,' Peter said to himself as he flow through one end to the street another trying to keep the peace, 'Back when the United States cut Gotham from the land itself due to a powerful earthquake, and they cut us off due to innocence's going haywire, a plague that broke out due to the earthquake, and villain's taking advantage of it all...I can't believe we're almost back to those days again.'

What made the situation a tad bit worse than No man's land was the fact Peter didn't have the allies to help out, most notably Bruce. And even with his strength and speed, he needs the help to keep everyone safe from one another, "Dick! Where are you?! I gotta stop Carnage partner to put an end to this!" Dick didn't respond, dodging and webbing multiple civilians, Peter groaned loudly, "Dick! Anyone have eyes on him?!"

"He's in the area Spider-Man! But we don't have comp-"

"Lord… He's been infected too! He's fighting civilians as we speak!"

Peter scooped a kid from being kicked by an adult, the kid was too being affected by Shriek's ability, and was trying to break free from Peter's grip by punching him with no effect, "Where?!" His spider sense, thank heavens for it, told him someone was coming at him.

Quickly looking up, he saw Dick; roaring, snarling, and wanted a piece of him, "YOUR MINE!"

Peter curved himself on his webline to avoid Dick from tackling him in the air. It allowed him to kick his back to a nearby building as Peter dropped the kid on a roof while tying him on a webline, "Stay right there!"

"Fuck you!"

If it was another day, Peter would lecture the bad language this kid had learned at such a young age. But he had no time as Dick grappled himself up to meet Peter up, wanting to fight him, or kill him, "Dick! Listen to me! This isn't you!" Peter said with hands out, not wanting to fight the very brother he looked up too.

"I'm coming...Peter!"

The very thought of now having to worry about Cassandra was the absolute worst timing for Peter, "NO! STAY AWAY FROM ROBI-"

Dick was already up close and personal that had Peter blocked his punch, and redirected by throwing him over his shoulders. Dick being who is, landed on his feet, and flipped himself where he used both his momentum and legs to set it between Peter's neck and flip him to the floor. But just like Dick, Peter quickly landed on his feet. Even being mind controlled or whatever Shriek did, he was still able to use his acrobatics to its full extent. Coming in fast with strikes and kicks that Peter slipped, ducked, and blocked so he can then redirect Dick's offense to his own offense, placing him in a chokehold, "Look at them Dick!" Peter shouted, showing him the countless people fighting each other, hurting one another, and possibly killing each other in the streets below them, "There has to be some part of you that sees this, all this! And knows it should be doing the right thing!"

"Yo…U don't," Dick knowing he couldn't brute force his way out, pulled out his escrima stick, "Get it!" He stuck them right to Peter's liver and ribs to electrify him.

But nothing worked, "You've been away too long Dick, suits insulated incase I face against electro again," it was then he felt his spider sense blaring, noticing Dick stick his escrima stick together, Peter quickly push Dick away, allowing him to flip, before motion his body back to Peter position with such speed. Peter flipped over him, avoiding his attack with an escrima stick that blasts a sort of air bullet through a water tower, causing it to implode with water gushing out, "Ok, that's a...New one."

Dick broke apart his stick as he went on the assaults' against Peter. With Peter spider sense, Dick had no chance of landing a single hit, "NONE OF YOU GET IT! THIS IS ME! AND I'M WILLING TO DO WHATEVER IT TAKES TO BE WHAT I HAVE TO BE!"

Peter caught both of Dick's hands, stopping his attacks, "What are you on about?! You're talking crazy Dick! Listen to yourself!"

"I'M NOT CRAZY! I WON'T EVER GO BACK TO BEING A CRIPPLE! I WON'T EVER BE A VICTIM OF WHAT HE DID TO ME!"

"DICK YOUR NOT A-"

"DON'T PITY ME YOU BASTARD! YOU OF ALL PEOPLE SHOULD GET IT WHEN NO ONE HELPED YOU AGAINST MORLUN!"

"THAT WAS A LONG TIME AGO DICK! YOU ALL WE'RE BUSY WITH YOUR OWN PROBLEMS!"

"STOP HIDING AND FOR ONCE," Dick got close to Peter face, "BE ANGRY AT HOW THE WORLD HATES YOU!"

Peter's spider sense was again on alert, he looked below, and the floor would give out on him with an explosion resembling a sonic blast. Peter pushed Dick away, jumping in the air to avoid it, but a red tendril pulled him hard down to the building level. Peter would try to burn the tendril, but it kept chucking him left and right from the higher floors, and it especially crawled to their way to his neck, making it harder to breath before fully, pulling him down to a diner. He was now face to face with Carnage and his partner Shriek. Both had the pleasure of a smile as they had Peter in his grasp, both sitting and eating food as everyone in the diner was bashing one another with either fist and other various tools, "Welcome to my own vision of Gotham Spider-Man! How do you like it?!" Carnage gesture to the area they were in, "It does have more potential to be grander doesn't it?!"

Peter felt the air leaving him, becoming harder to breath, to see, he truly wanted to just sleep, be done with everything, hell, maybe accept death door.

Not forgetting that he was still in the area, Dick would try to get the drop on them, "Babe!"

Shriek was quick to stop Dick from attacking from above, holding him in the air with a mere look and nothing else as she let one shoulder remain on her lover, "Got him red!" She easily tossed him out the window, and right into the car.

Peter saw this, saw the person he wanted to protect, saw everyone he so desperately needed to protect, all around him getting hurt. Pushing threw it all, Peter grabbed a hold of the tendrils, and with all his strength slowly started prying himself loose, "Grr…! Will…Stop you…BOTH!"

Getting free, he kicked Carnage hard, tossing him aside, and he would've gone for Shriek if she hadn't used her powers on him. Her left eye was still brimming with power, and Peter could feel her own mind, her own soul in a sense, climbing inside his own mind, "Let's see…What the Spider holds inside.." She slowly walked to him, her hands touching and holding his head, "That can be broken."

All Peter could do was watch on, as darkness claimed him, as Carnage sinister laughter could be heard.

---

Peter's consciousness had him falling, falling into an endless black abyss. He couldn't do anything, he tried steadying his fall, tried keeping his emotions in check, and tried not to let fear broaden into his heart. But then he stopped falling, levitation even, before being chained up; from his arms, to his neck and legs, he couldn't budge out as much as he wanted too, "Ah ah ah! Spider! Won't let you loose that easily!" Frances, or by who she rather be called by, Shriek, spoke but her speech came from every direction and he couldn't see where she was.

Peter kept calm, tried to escape, tried to use his strength, but to no avail, 'Ok Peter, no escaping this one right now. Gotta think, think.. I must be in my own head, something similar to what Mordu had done at one point, or the plethora of times someone got in my head. Although... Mordu used my nightmares against me, I gotta try to build up my defense walls.'

"Unlike that chaos fool you fought, I'm not such a man, and you can't build back what's been broken," Frances said, knowing what Peter thought was due to her abilities, "Now, let's see.." That's when Peter saw it. In the center of him, like a web connecting to everything he went through, Peter saw all of it, all of his failures. From the countless people that died in front of him, from the countless people he couldn't save, to the many times he let down the people he loved, and even coming against allies who turned enemy, Peter saw all of it, and they all contain his own failures, "Let's start with something painful. Oh babe, you're gonna love this one.'

Suddenly Peter felt another presence in his consciousness like Frances, and it was Carnage who sat cross leg to watch it all, "Oo! I so can't wait to see this new movie, directed by none other than Spider-Man himself!"

Frances put the events in motion. Peter remembered that day like it was yesterday, "No..Please!"

---

12 years ago

Peter saw it. He saw his younger self coming home in North Gotham, finding the usual police cars in the area. But this day was different, they were at his apartment complex, and again he thought nothing of it. It was normal to have police come through his apartment complex to inspect crimes or being reported on site for noise disturbance. That is, until he went up to where his house was, the cops outside talking by his apartment door.

Peter felt his heart stop, the cops looked at him, walked to him, and then one of them talked, "Your Peter Parker? Nephew to May and Ben Parker?"

"...W-what happened? Where's my Aunt? My Uncle?!"

Cop's face turned to one of pity and sadness before speaking what Peter didn't need to hear, "Your Aunt is fine son, but your Uncle…There was a robbery, and your Uncle… Your Uncle tried talking some sense into the guy but… It didn't work out for him."

Peter eyes widen, tears began trickling as he push past them, to his home, where his own Aunt; an elderly women who didn't look to be too old with her brunette hair still on display, tearful letting out all the sorrow she felt as another cop and Gwen was there to comfort her. It didn't help that there was a body covered up in the living room, in the small place that used to be a solitude away from everything wrong in this city. Gwen looked up, to see Peter, staring at the body that was hidden by a blanket, and that being his own father figure lying dead.

He was dead, dead in front of his living room, in their living room. The only thing Peter could feel was two things, guilt, and rage, '...No...I...I should've been here...Not on some late night show…!' Peter fist tightened in and out, his lips still stayed open, his eyes never left his uncle's dead body, 'Should've...Should've...'

"Peter..." Peter heard his aunt, calling to him, going to get up to him. All Peter can think of was to keep blaming himself, blaming himself that if he was here, he could've saved his Uncle.

But he wasn't.

Too busy trying to use his powers for self gain.

And look where that got his Uncle?

In turn, the rage settles in, the anger deepens, 'Someone needs to pay..' Peter's ears perked up to a nearby cop's talking, "We got the son of a bitch. Down by that warehouse by the Gotham river up north near Aparo Park."

Overhearing this, Peter ran, ran with all his heart, ran away from his Aunt, Gwen, and her father who was one of the police officers calling out to him. He ran away from his home, leaping to the roof, tearing away his clothes as his Spider costume was under it, putting on his mask, and went after the man that killed his father figure, the man that was trying to raise him to be good, and the man that only wanted him to be good and nothing else.

Then the memory shifted and pulled, easily where Peter found the man who murder his uncle Ben as he choked him and pushed him through the window so he could see the face of the man that killed his uncle.

The man that he so desperately wanted him to feel all his rage, all his anger, at what he did that day. But instead, what he found was something he didn't expect, "No..It can't be… You're the guy I let go… You're the thief I could've stopped that day. Stop at that late night showcase... WHY YOU?! WHY YOU OF ALL PEOPLE?!"

"Please let me go! I'll turn myself in, I didn't mean to kill that guy!" The thief said, begging for his life.

"DIDN'T MEAN TOO?! THAT MAN WAS A BETTER PERSON THAN YOU'LL EVER BE! I SHOULD DROP YOU HERE AND NOW!" And a few seconds later, Peter did so, but stopped his fall with the webbing, tying the webbing on the building for the police, "But then he wouldn't approve of it. He wouldn't approve if I used my powers selfishly as I had…"

---

Present time

The current Peter had tears too, trickling down his cheek under his mask, "Boooo! Boring! Should've killed him. But poor spider! Lost his sweet Uncle, and still blame himself just like all the other countless people that you couldn't save, such as that blond girl's dad right here!"

Peter didn't want to relive that memory, not that memory of all other memories, "Stop it… STOP IT!"

"Oh, well… HEY BABE! I WANNA SEE HOW THIS GWEN CHICK DIE!"

"Easy and done."

"NO!"

---

6 and a half years ago

"NOOO! GWEN!"

Peter too remembers this day, the cackling laughter coming from a green man dressed like a goblin and looked like one as he dropped Gwen off of a bridge, one that was a gap between Gotham and New York City, George Washington Bridge specifically.

Peter, with a good portion of his strength as he was running towards Goblin, punched him hard to the face as he looked to save Gwen with the usage of his webs.

It caught her by the legs, making him elated of being fast enough to catch her, "Oh! Thank you god!" he quickly pulled her up, "Thank you brains of mine for making these wondrous webbing! And thank you spider powers! I'll never doubt you again!" Peter had Gwen close to her, "I know you probably would've had a heart attack but hey! We've been through worse rig-" Peter noticed something odd about Gwen when he held her. Sure, she could be unconscious, but his hands felt her chest, and he felt no pulse at all. Looking at her, he also noticed her body wasn't breathing, blood was running from her nose, and her eyes weren't opening say the least, "Hey… Gwen?" He shook her, his heart started pounding, faster and faster, dreading what his mind was slowly realizing, "Gwen! Gwen! Hey! Wake up!" he laid her down, checking her pulse again by the neck this time, and he still didn't feel a thing, "No no no! Don't please!"

He started giving her cpr.

30 compressions.

Give air.

30 compressions.

Give air, "COME ON! I SAVED YOU! I SAVED YOU LIKE ALL THE OTHER TIMES!"

30 compressions.

Give air, "DON'T LEAVE ME! I SAVED YOU GWEN! DON'T LEAVE ME TOO! I CAN'T LOSE YOU! NOT YOU OF ALL PEOPLE!"

Even as much time as he did it, he knew it wasn't working, he knew his attempts were becoming fruitless, and he knew of what happened to the women he loved since he was a kid..

Gwen was dead, and all he could do right now was hold her body close to him, cradling her, keeping his head close to hers, "No. No. NO. This...This isn't happening," he rocked her back and forward, "I saved you...I...I saved you...I didn't kill you! I SAVED YOU! NO! NO NO NO NO! NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!"

In his shock, the man responsible, the green goblin came gliding back on his glider as he didn't hold back his laughter, "HA! PATHETIC! LOOK AT YOU, UNABLE TO SAVE THE WOMEN YOU LOVE! AND LOOK AT THIS?! NO BATMAN OR ROBIN COMING TO SAVE YOU! HOW DOES IT FEEL SPIDER?! HOW DOES IT FEEL TO KNOW THAT WITHOUT THEM, YOUR NOTHING! JUST A CHILD WHO KNOWS NOTHING ABOUT WHAT TRUE POWER REALLY MEANS!"

Peter's head turned to Goblin, to Gwen, then to Goblin, "..I'm gonna kill you Goblin…I'M GONNA KILL YOU FOR MURDERING HER! FOR MURDERING THE WOMAN I LOVE!"

"THAT'S RIGHT! COME ON NOW SON!"

He gently put Gwen's body down, kissing her forehead, before masking himself fully again, "You wanna see how strong I am Goblin...? THEN I'LL SHOW YOU! I'LL SHOW YOU IT AS I BASH YOUR FUCKING FACE TO PIECES!" Peter shouted, as he screamed his life out, bringing the fire, the anger and fury to Goblin.

---

Present time

Carnage clapped from what he had seen, "NOW THAT'S! THE SPIDER I WANT! And you know what? It still boggles my mind of why Spider?" He turned to him, who held his posture down to the ground, trying to let go of those specific memories that still brought immense trauma to him, "Why keep fighting an endless battle when you will lose everyone yet again? I can give you, no, we can give you what you want," Carnage, place a hand on shoulder, "A family that can last forever. Where there's no pain, no death, just us, causing Carnage and destruction. No hero can stop us with you in the fold, and you certainly know secrets to keep us going forever and ever."

And because of all this emotion, all the pain he's been through, the bit of what they are seeing, it was enough for Peter to remember why he is who he is, and why he has to keep fighting this never ending battle between right and wrong, "I SAID STOPPPPPPPPPP! GET OUT OF MY HEAD!"

Frances tried controlling him, but his chain was being broken, the defense on his walls began to awaken "No!" Strands of webbing went through the area, tightening up everything, closing all the memories he has.

"What the hell is-"

---

Peter comes back to reality, and palm strikes Shriek's stomach before her while backflipping away from the two villains. Peter was already changing modes on his web shooters when Carnage pressed forward, "FINE! KEEP FIGHTING! AND I'LL JUST SIMPLY KILL EVERYONE YOU LOVE AND LET YOU CREATE NEW MEMORIES!"

"COME AND TRY!" Peter would evade Carnage swipe to get in, aiming his strikes hard to the stomach, and then squeezing his web shooter trigger to burst Carnage on fire.

"Ahhhhh!" Carnage howled in pain, trying to fight Peter, but he couldn't withstand the fire. Before Peter could do anything else, Shriek was still in the picture.

And she uses all of her strength to put Peter asleep. In doing so, it did stop everyone from fighting at the parade, and they ended up running away together with Shriek helping Cletus get away.

As soon as Peter found himself going back to unconsciousness. The only thing he could see was those people that he loved and aren't here anymore. They held him as he began falling into a deep sleep, "Ben…? Captain…Stacey? Gwen…?..May?"

They all smiled at him, as they held his body, comforting his mind and body as it fell asleep.

Chapter 12: Rallying up together

Cassandra was running.

Her motorcycle wasn't of use to get there, and wasn't responding to her demands.

Yet it didn't matter, she was running, fast as she can, hard as she can, concussed as she is, in pain she's in, she was running.

She had to be there for them, to save Peter and Dick.

Ignoring the fatigue setting in her system, setting in her knees.

She pushed and pushed, feeling her mind beginning to fog, her face behind her cracked helmet was cringing at the level of stress she was inducing to herself.

She had to.

She needs to.

She wants to.

But most of all, it was her duty to protect all that she loves from the forces that want to take it away from her.

And she would stop at nothing to save the people she cares about, along with saving this city from the evil that wants to destroy it.

Cassandra found herself falling, tripping, rolling on the ground, startling the people of Gotham at the sudden fall. She's been getting stares, people pointing at her, people recording her, and people questioning if it really was Batwomen running in the streets of Miagani island.

Some even wanted to help, but Cassandra recovered, getting back to her feet on her own, pushing people away, and kept running.

Each time she fell, she sometimes couldn't stop the fall properly, allowing the helmet to absorb more of the damage. She felt blood coming down from her forehead, just as she felt blood still protruding all across her body from her fight with Arkham Knight and the fall she took. The light weight armor protected her where it could, but it's not enough. She's not like Peter where he can endure so much more damage and keep going like an unstoppable engine. She's human, and the only reason why she hasn't accepted to let darkness take her, is her indomitable will to save her family, to be there for them.

She's been through worse, and she has to keep going.

By this point, she was in the Fashion district, away from Old Gotham. She doesn't know how long she's been running, but she knows she at least in Miagani Island

She was getting closer, but still far off. Once again, she collapsed on the ground, her arms bracing the fall this time. Cassandra again picked herself up, someone tried helping her, but she shoved them away like all the others and kept running. However, she was running slower as of now, even limping a little in her run. Her fatigue was finally getting to her, her pace had been waning ever since she was half way to reaching Miagani island. But she pushed past everything that was a problem and she has too.

She needs to.

She wants to.

To wipe away the feeling of being satisfied with getting what she wants.

Because even if she did get it, she doesn't want it.

She doesn't want to be like her mother.

She wants to be Cassandra Cain.

But who is Cassandra Cain to begin with? And why should it be of any concern when all she ever wanted was to be the Bat.

She got what she wanted, but she didn't like it, not one bit. In between running to her family, she was fighting within herself about this subject. Fighting tooth and nail to understand what she wants. It was quite odd at this time, because as she was thinking about herself, she was also thinking about what Peter wanted for her, for her to live outside of the Bat.

'...Is that what...I really want in the end...? To live..? To find out...If I deserve a life out of being...The Bat? Or…Maybe die…Die what I love doing…? But then…How would everyone feel…? Peter….How would you feel…When I die…?' These were her final thoughts before succumbing to exhaustion, collapsing in the streets of Miagani island. Somehow, she didn't stay long, as someone was helping her. Her concussions were slowly coming back, as she saw none other than Bruce carrying her into the passenger seat of his car, "B...Batman...?" She muttered in the seat of his car, "Need...To sav-"

Bruce buckle her seat, shushing her lip, "Rest soldier, the Batmobile is already on its way to help them thanks to Barbara," he can see her struggling to stay awake, struggling in the streets as Bruce was already starting his engine to head back to the manor, "You're in no condition to help them Cassandra. Rest, please. You'll need it when you awake. We got work that needs to be done."

A stubbornness in her wanted to refuse, bite it down, and keep going to save them on her own.

Without they're help, without his help.

Because deep down, she's still in front of their shadow, his shadow, and yet, it seems she couldn't escape the people before her that made her into who she is, what she is.

The only thing left to do was stomach her pride, and let blissful sleep get to her.

---

'I've seen some scary shit when living in Gotham,' Vicki noted to herself, 'From murder's I reported, seeing those in crime scene's, getting statements from both men and woman getting raped to crazy maniacs who belongs in Arkham, and being held hostage from criminal's to super villain's all because of being a journalist. Stuff like those are why I wanted to quit.'

'But it doesn't matter. My purpose involves helping this city and its people. It'll get dark, just like today, but I won't stop doing what's right,' Vicki reminded herself as she was helping a friend out along with Dewolff. Both were carrying Peter into an alleyway away from the groups of people that were either reporters like her, or GCPD that wanted a piece of him. As good as Peter had done for this city, everyone wants to know who's under the mask. Whether it's to arrest him from the many time's he broke the law, expose him for the prosperity reason, everyone wants a piece of Peter no matter if he's shown how good he is over the years.

Vicki hated how the public can be towards Peter. Was it because of his powers? The fact he's shown how strong and powerful he can be when push comes to shove? That they fear him more than Batman? It could be any of those things, but one thing Vicki learn is that no matter what, the people never fully trusted Peter because he was so different from Batman and his own family. Sure, most don't approve of Batwomen these days, the police surely are more wary of her than Peter, but it didn't matter because if the opportunity was there.

Who wouldn't want to expose Spider-Man? They'll do the same for Batwomen, but Spider-Man was different with how he operates, how he showcase himself, people want to see the man under the mask to understand everything and anything about him. Even if they fear him, they're also intrigue by him. The public always felt that the Batman would snap, and others would do the same eventually. But Spider-Man? The curious case was would he too snap? Can he snap? And how far can people push him till he becomes like Batman? 'People thought he was already there when he went all black and white, but knowing him for over 12 years, I had faith Peter would come back to his senses one way or another. One day the public can focus more on the good, than to expose whatever flaws he has for their own purposes,' Vicki said to herself about her reporter partner.

"Jesus christ! He always looked less heavy then he appears to be," Commissioner Dewolff mentions when she and Vicki gently rest Peter on a wall.

Right near a tired, exhausted Nightwing who looked to be out of it too, but he wasn't as he was still recovering from his mental takeover by Shriek, "Heh…He eats a lot…" He jested in his exhausted tone. Vicki's eyes rolled at Dick jester at all times. She peaked out the alleyway, still seeing the streets in a mess. Bodies were lying on the ground, some being looked at by the ambulances, or some being taken away quickly as possible. Then there are those who were crying, crying out for their dead loved one. Either they were normal citizens, cops, firefighters, even the veterans they were supporting today.

And the truly tragic part was the kids, the teenagers, they too were caught in the crossfire. As much as Peter tried to save everyone, he couldn't. Vicki knows when he finds this out, it'll eat him up badly. Dewolff too looked at the scene, her hands by her waist, the noticeable scowl and frown she wore before banging her hands by the wall, "Damn it! Not a goddamn thing I couldn't do! Not a goddamn thing any police officer could do! NOT GODDAMN THING!" She shouted in anguish.

Vicki gets that, the feeling of being useless, the feeling of being weak, and the feeling of being overpowered by unstoppable forces. She truly gets that in a time where there's so many people with powers and skill that can take over whatever city, or country they want too. But somehow, they're still here, the good of Gotham still stands and still lives. Where darkness can reign, hope is still alive and beating, "Pull yourself together Commissioner! Those people!" She pointed too, "Those cops! They need you! I'm able to watch over these two, but you need to do what you have to do."

"AND WHAT IF I DON'T WANT TOO?!" she started pacing left and right during her anxiety spilling out her guts, "WHAT IF I'M NOT GOOD ENOUGH FOR THIS SHIT! ONLY A YEAR! I'VE BEEN COMMISSIONER, ONLY A YEAR! AND I'M STILL GETTING USE TO IT ALL! ALL THIS RESPONSIBILITY REST ON ME! ME! I GOT NO ONE TO TRUST! I GOT VIGILANTES THAT I'M SUPPOSED TO TAKE IN, AND I DON'T EVEN HAVE THE LIKES OF GORDON OR STACY TO HAVE MY-"

Vicki smacked her. The reporter slapped the Commissioner of the GCPD. And Dewolff was at a loss of words just as Vicki kept her stern expression on, "This! Is no time for you to have a panic attack. Gordon picked you for a reason as his replacement, Captain Stacy picked you as his partner for a reason, and you became an officer for some reason. And that reason I have to believe is that you care enough to help give Gotham hope. Just like these two," she now would point at Dick and Peter, "Now go be the Commissioner! The only commissioner Gordon trusts! Give hope to the city! Keep the people trust in the GCPD alive! Show them that it isn't as corrupted as it used to be! Show them what a true officer is, you hear me?!"

Dewolff did, she truly did hear the reporter of the Gazette. It was ironic though, a reporter telling an officer to get her ass into gear when it should be the reverse. Dewolff felt ashamed to show a moment of weakness, but she needed that kick in the ass desperately. She took a breath in and out. She got her ass into gear, anxiety expression left her face and all that was left was a determined Commissioner willing to do what was right, "Ok. Ok, do what you gotta do here, but I need you to help me with an interview I have in mind once I get this place under control. People in the city, cops in the city, they need to know that after today, everyone is all hands on deck, everyone will be working with Spider-Man and the other bat figures, no questions asked."

"What about the higher ups at the GCPD? Let alone the other Commissioner Michael Akin?"

Commissioner Dewolff scoffed, "They can kiss my ass. As Batwomen told me, ignorance they are, and we all should be working together. I'm gonna make that happen just like Gordon did."

Vicki nodded, they both heard the Batmobile pulling up to the location. Vicki gestures for Dewolff to do her thing, and she does. Vicki saw the Batmobile opened up to let the two heroes' in. It also means she got to do the bulk of the leg work to carry them, at least she hopes not too, "Dick, you think you're strong enough to help me with Peter?"

He gave a thumbs up.

---

San Diego, California

In a condo that seemed to house one person at the moment, a man sat in his chair while his computer was playing Gotham Gazette news, involving Vicki interviewing Commissioner Dewolff, "There's still plenty of things that need taking care of here. I don't want to say but there's a few too many good souls that were lost today, some were just…Kids. But right now as we recover and help those in need, I'm issuing right here and now that GCPD will do everything in our power to take on these new threats that are hurting this city."

"And how are you going to accomplish this, Commissioner?"

"First step, we're working with vigilante's. I don't care who doesn't like them, or why they don't, but we need them, now more than ever. Next step is making sure we get necessary equipment to handle the likes of Carnage and his partner dub Shriek. Besides Wayne tech, we're gonna look for other reliable outside resources to help us, and finally, the hardest thing to do, endure what happened today, and push forward to do what's right for this city."

The man who had one working eye while the other eye was completely shut, and had a linear scar over and under the same eyelid that was shut, heard someone coming into the house. His one and only arm quickly closed the video just as a blond haired woman came in with bags in her hand, "Heyyya! I'm so gonna get this pasta right today!" she said. She took off the hat from her head, and her jacket that revealed the left side of her body being scarred. It started on the side of her hair, one that stopped it from growing, then her ears, to her neck, and a bit of it can be seen by her left shoulder that her t-shirt hid.

It meant that her entire left side was molded up like an acid was thrown on her. It didn't take away from her beauty seeing as the majority of her hair was intact and looked to be in style with the scarring. Not only that, her pointy nose, her dimple smile, her sky blue glisten eyes, the muscularity that was on display, and part of her skin that was taken care of, she remained beautiful even if the scar's took a piece away from her.

The man by his computer took a second to stare at her as she took out the ingredients for the pasta she would be making today. His indigo eyes gaze at her, but find itself focusing on the scar's too. He blinked to stop the stare, and looked to stand up till he forgot one thing. He was missing a leg, and so he had to quickly stop his fall with his one arm. The woman saw this and frowned, "Distracted?"

"No, just forgot again," he said, letting his body fall so he could sit up and grab the nearby prosthetic leg allowing him to attach it to his leg. It was a little awkward at first when getting up due to it not being his own leg, but he quickly got used to it and went to help her out with the groceries.

In some way, the blond-haired woman's own light saxe eyes took in the man beside her, and now he was lying and trying to evade a knowing conversation that had to occur, "Forgot? Or were you busy looking at what's going on in Gotham again?" She questioned.

He stopped what he was doing, knowing this woman knew the in's and outs of who he is. Lying to her was never easy, and it breeds problems that he knew he shouldn't have done. He sighed, "It's getting more crazy back there Steph. I saw Cass take a nasty fall, saw Dick hurting innocent people, Peter having to deal with so many people losing their minds and hurting one another, and now there's more than one villain and an army to worry about, it's another."

Stephanie eyebrow lowered at hearing all what had just happened in Gotham, "I had a feeling the second I stepped out you would look to see what was going on back in Gotham. But Tim, you know why you and I wanted to get out of that city."

"I know.. But everyday Steph," his indigo eyes drifted to her, just as the hands that were still in the bag clinched just a bit, "It feels like I have to be there, that I have to be the Robin, their Robin. That it's my job to keep everyone and everything in order over there. And when I'm not there, it feels like everything's falling apart and I know I can do something."

"And you want to just throw all the progress we've built here in San Diego away Tim?" She argued back, her voice steadily rising, "You're almost done with college, we finally got an actual house to ourselves here, we both love our jobs even if it can be hell sometime, and we're both happy!" She took a step back, cringing to herself as she noticed Tim looked away from her gaze when she said that, "Or at least… I like to think we got to a point of being happy. By you just saying that, it almost feels like our progress here doesn't mean anything to you. That you can't let go of Gotham."

"No! No it does Steph," he walks closer to her, his one eye focused on her once more, "God it does!" his one hand went to hold her hand, "I love what we've built here, I love you loving a job that fits you! I love using my brains to crack codes and stuff that helps us have more money! Hell, I like trading in the stock market for once!" Again, his gaze left her's, staring at his hand as it rub hers gently, staring at his one pure feet, his one prosthetic foot, against her one pure feet and her one half scarred foot, "I…I love it all…But god Steph," he gently presses his forehead onto hers, closing his eye in the process as he felt her breath against his, feeling his heart race just a bit as he felt scared. Scared of the fact that in truth, all this may not be what he really wanted, "...I feel like I'm needed there again. That the only way it'll close up this hole, or stop the night terrors is if I go back there and… Help them..."

Stephanie would remove his one hand from her, to enclose both hands to embrace him, "And what if…What if going back there means we'll throw away all that we have here? Or what if it means we'll die this time Tim?" She asked, close to his ears, "As much as I too want to go back and help them out, you know what happened last time. It doesn't matter if Joker is dead. If we mess up, if we make one single mistake like last time…I…I don't wanna think about losing you, not again…If Cass wasn't there…"

Tim let his one hand brush the back of her hair, a way to comfort him and her at the same time, "I know.. If she wasn't there we would've both died."

They stood just a bit longer, letting the quiet of their condo overtake them, "...So what do you wanna do Tim?"

"...I don't even know, because that's the hard part. I want to go back, but then I'm reminded if I go back, you'll not only come too, but there's a chance, always a chance, that we can screw up, costing our lives in the process. I know that even before what Joker did to us was the same thing, but somehow, Joker put it into perspective that our lives count for something. As much as we want to help people, help Gotham, it means putting our lives on the line everyday…I don't know why it didn't occur to me till I lost half of everything. I lost my parent's to the city, kept losing more friends because of us needing to stop bad guys, and yet...It took what Joker did to me to realize that...We really do only have one life at the end of the day, and we have to be very careful…"

While he didn't have to say, Stephanie knows those scars still remain on Tim regardless of how long it's been. Just like the Bat family, Tim lost a lot to be who he is, and as much as she tries her best to be the support he needs, it's not entirely enough to heal the wounds. She knows what needs to be done to somehow fix the wound he's been dealing with, but she can't lie to herself, "I'm just scared Tim...I can't lose you."

"I...I know. Which is why I won't do anything you're not comfortable with."

"You don't get it," Stephanie removes herself just a bit, still in the embrace, but in a position to stare at Tim, "I know you need to go back to Gotham Tim, I know you need to be Red Robin again, I know this! But I'm scared, scared to death of what will happen if we go back there. I pray to god everyday that we can just...Be normal," she then sighed, "...But I know normal hasn't been a good fit for us.."

"...We gave it a shot at least," Tim responded with a small chuckle.

Stephanie too found herself slightly giggling, "We did..And by the way, you still have a heart, and you still have your awesome brain," she then shrugs, "So you kind of have everything still."

Tim looked at her for a moment, before bursting into laughter allowing Stephanie to smile at doing her job of being a girlfriend in time like this, "You're right, have you ever told you how beautiful you are?"

"Mmm, tell me more."

They shared a kiss, allowing the stressful thoughts of Gotham to be driven away just for a moment. Even with all they're dealing with, they have each other.

---

Gotham

Talia always had a difficult relationship with Bruce, and that extension goes with the Bat family he grew for years. When she was younger, she was nothing more than a naïve woman who fantasized having Bruce by her side, both as a lover and a partner to her. A partner who was loyal to her father, the former demon head, the former leader of the league of assassins. And was willing to do anything necessary to not only save his city, but the world. They had their moments, drifting between enemies, allies, romance, and bitter hatred, but none of these moments ever led to that fantasy she wanted so badly. It was because of who he is that he couldn't do it, and because of the good he is, he was the only man worthy enough to capture her heart, her soul.

The most ironic part was that she almost did have him. When he killed Joker, when his Bat family became broken that day, that year, when his mind was shattered into millions of pieces as he finally realized he had enough of putting away criminals. There was only one conclusion he came to a year ago, it meant hurting his family, his friends, but he was willing to do it for everyone he cared about including his city. It also meant siding with her, her assassin's, and taking the position that she had so he can do what's necessary for everyone.

If Talia was a manipulative, conniving woman that most thought of her, to which, they aren't wrong. But if she truly was, then she could've given him the powers he needed at the time, and also, be able to take away him from Selina and finally have the fantasy she always wanted. Yet, the most tragic part is that no one, say for very few people if they were to dig hard enough, would ever know that not only did she turn down what Bruce wanted at the time, but she did it because he wasn't the same man she grew to love. Her father, Ra's Al Ghul, was no longer alive to sway her decision, and therefore, she made an important decision based not on her emotions, but her mind, her body, and her heart.

Talia is no saint, she knows of the sin's she's committed, and will continue to commit if it so happens, but she isn't above choosing an option that was the right thing to do. And she would let Cassandra be able to take on her adoptive father for his mind, body, soul, and the mantle he wore for years.

Yet now as she stood and watched everything around her in the Batcave, she couldn't help but wonder how this family was still attached? After everything Bruce had done, after everything Joker had done, how is this family still breathing? Still surviving, and still trying to hold onto hope? Talia noticed the little Bat, Cassandra, was being treated by the butler. She looked to be both tired and in agony from the amount of pain she must be still enduring. Her fight with the Arkham Knight wasn't as easy as it looked, though, it seemed she took damage from outside the fight.

From what she heard, she fell from a great height, about 80 stories that was almost to the top of Wayne tower. If it was any other normal person, they surely would've panicked and died. But knowing Cassandra, she kept her cool and survived. Like always and especially right now, she was doing her best to show no pain, no emotion, and simply endure. What made it easier for her was her attention being focused on one person.

Her Spider.

Unlike Cassandra and Dick, Peter Parker, the Spider-Man, and a hero that was torn at her father's side whenever they crossed paths, was in a coma from his own battle. Bruce and the wheel-bounded former Batgirl, Barbara Gordon, were overseeing his wounds he suffered in his fight. From Talia's perspective, he didn't exactly have many physical wounds due to him being able to heal faster than a normal person, but it more so had to deal with what was going on in his head. This is why both Bruce and Barbara were more focused on monitoring his heart and brain wave just in case to act fast when something vital would happen. With his mask off, Talia can see that the Spider still had the face of a boy, but a boy that had seen and gone through many challenges in his life.

'With the many times the league of assassins went against him, he always had my respect,' Talia gave her own opinion about Peter to herself, 'The real respect comes from that he chose to fight all his battles and no one had to tell him to do so. With the power's he was gifted by an accident, he had all the reason to be and stay selfish, yet he chose to dwindle himself in selflessness instead. This is perhaps the very thing that sets him apart from the people Bruce had trained. He may still have naive principle's, but he's stuck to it, no matter what has come about him. The same could be said for almost every Robin and Batgirl's Bruce helped shape,' even in her thoughts, Talia was listening in on what Bruce and Barbara was talking about with Peter's coma, 'Seems they can't wake him and it's up to him to wake himself up. Curious case since the Spider is strong enough to survive those types of mental attacks he took on, and from what I remember when siding with Grodd about oh so 3 years ago, he has defense's for these mental attacks. So either the Spider didn't set up in time, the person he fought is strong enough to break through his defense's, or the Spider himself let his guard down for reason unknown to counteract it,' Talia eyes then drifted to Cassandra, whose eye's still were kept on her beloved. Talia recognizes the look, the aching feeling of not being able to do anything to help her beloved, 'He's strong, he'll survive and will come back to you little Bat. From the times I went against him, everything was of his own making; skill, mind, body, spirit. Bruce might've had a hand in guiding him, but I never fought a version of Bruce, I fought the Spider only, a boy who turned into a man by his choices and battles. These days he may be closer to the Bat family, but he is very much still his own man.'

Since Talia also had a closer look at how Cassandra is towards Peter, it made her even more curious about their relationship, 'How did this man ever claim the little Bat? One who can use words to communicate, but communicates more towards fighting? One who was raised to be a killer by her father, and has a mother that wanted her to kill her? Even a better question, how did the little Bat warm her way into the Spider heart? One who's courageous and willing to lay down his life for even people he doesn't know? Yet, always seems to suffer with the pain, guilt, and scar's from the many people he couldn't save? It just feels like the two would bring more problems than love in my eyes,' Talia once again said to herself, problems she assumes they are having behind closed doors.

Beyond the Bat and Spider, another thing that caught her attention without looking was Bruce's first son. He had been eyeing her painstakingly for what seemed like eons ever since her arrival, 'Richard John Grayson... Not as bad as the injuries his friend had suffered, yet still put his pure disdainful attention on me. It goes both ways, with him being more of a nuance compared to the Spider even if the Spider had more of a mouth than he did. It's rightfully so that Bruce's prodigal son would look down on me for who I am and the many times I've tried to sway Bruce to my side of the world. It also doesn't help the fact that our first introduction involved in his and mine kidnapping, with me being a simple ploy for Bruce's arrival. I myself grew to have the same ounce of disdain for Dick due to the many time's he meddled with my plans, or had the balls to tell me off whenever I interact with Bruce. In a sense, both Dick and the Spider are the same side of one coin. However, somehow his hatred seems to grow since we last saw each other, more so than Selina. Therefore, I let Selina handle it while I went back to my focus on Bruce's Bat computer.'

Using the Bat computer, she needed to know more about this Arkham Knight, a villain that came out from the shadows to capture her of all people, 'Father taught me that when an enemy want's something, more specifically a person, means they want something that they have,' Talia eyes squint as her line of thinking was deeply focus on the Knight's possible goal, 'A vendetta? Steal my power? Take away all my resources? Or perhaps the secret to immortality that is no longer in the grasp of anyone, not even me. My father and I always made sure that the public wasn't aware of the Lazarus pit. It was once a key source to my father's immortality who spent centuries on this earth learning every and anything. I too, and my sister, have plunged ourselves into the pit where we too experience the years of living on this earth. Those who learned of it weren't like Bruce or some other heroes' that try to destroy, some wanted for themselves to become powerful beings, and most have failed in their approach,' Talia found herself frowning when remembering the effects the Lazarus pit has on a person, 'However the cost is great. The more times a person goes into the pit, the more their state of mind deteriorates. My father spent hundreds of times doing this process, and it's why he later went mad...'

'...And it's why I had to slay him down and take his place as the demon head,' Talia said to herself. She felt no sickness, nor anger or sadness with what she had to do at that time, 'It was my job as the daughter of the demon head to make sure I did what was right even if he said otherwise. My sister was no longer on this earth, and so it was up to me to do it. For the past 3 years, I made sure the Lazarus pit would not fall into the wrong hands. And what better way to keep it from prying hands by doing what Bruce always wanted, and that was to destroy the essence,' Talia stopping her typing and searching, took a moment to look at her hand. Her skin still had its tint, lightly shaded color, but closer eye can see it wasn't flawless as small cracks can be seen in the skin, 'Even though I didn't put myself into the pit as much as father, 150 years of being on this earth still does something to the body. I still have time, but I know..' Talia clutched her hands tightly, 'I don't have forever on this earth, and I've accepted the case since I wouldn't be driven to madness like my father,' Talia thought determinedly as she refocus her search on the bat computer, 'Ruling the Lazarus pit out, I wonder what else could they want with me? How much do they know about the league and me? Better yet, how much do they know about Bruce and his family?'

"So we just accept anyone into the Batcave?" Dick asked, his aggravating tone didn't disrupt Talia's focus.

"Dick you know damn well I would be the first one to kick her out," Selina said when wrapping the bandages around Dick waist, "But she needs to stay here."

Dick scoffed, "She has the league of assassins to protect her."

"And what if they're compromise?" Bruce brought a question that even piqued Talia's interest. An interest that broke away her focus to look at the former Bat as his gaze was more towards studying Peter's condition, "This Arkham Knight clearly knows more than they would let on. They knew when the meeting happened, likely organize it, they used a specific statement I told to the underworld of Gotham when I wanted them to know who will be going after them decades ago, and easily, they're wearing something reminiscent of Batman," he then turns to the people he was talking to, "It's best to presume that they're right. The Arkham Knight has eyes and ears everywhere, and they probably have been building this network for years right under our noses."

It was scarier thought to know a player of this magnitude would come out now, now when they not only have to worry about a super power psychopath that has attachment to Peter's own previous enemy. It just meant that that the stake for this city just got higher, "...They trained with mother," Cassandra said, her face scrunched and let out a small groan when Alfred readjusted the arm that popped out of his socket during her free fall, "And likely was the one who killed..Kingpin."

This piece of information only seemed to broaden up more mystery behind the Arkham Knight, and it only served to make Bruce frown deepen, "Your mother isn't the type to take in new students, only if those are worthy enough that is…" His arms were crossed, his mind prodding yet still focused on Peter's condition, "That would explain their skills, their tactical awareness, but their goals? Shiva must've given them the tools to exact their goals."

"You think she's testing Cassandra again?" Barbara questioned.

Bruce shook his head, "No, I think it's something deeper than a test, but a force that Cassandra needs to confront. Something she saw in them that is the opposite of Cassandra. Kind of like the Joker was for me..."

"They kill," Cassandra answered, Alfred just about stitches up parts of her body while now giving her an ice pack for head to lessen the headache, "And they want chaos. Like Carnage. Like Joker...Doesn't matter...All the same..!"

"Odd that two villains have a similar goal and plans in wanting chaos and destruction," Talia then giggled before continuing on, "Yet it seems they haven't allied themselves just yet. They'll likely join soon once they really realize their endeavors are all but the same. And it seems, the calmness of this hasn't done either of any of you justice, especially you little Bat."

"Hey!" Dick got off from the stretcher, with the likes of Selina barely able to hold him back from walking towards Talia, "Back off! You're not in your home territory where you can talk down to your followers Al Ghul," Dick aggressively said.

Talia stood up from her seat to stare down the slightly taller men. While she wasn't surprised their bad blood hadn't dissipated in her time as the demon head, she was slightly surprised that his more light heart, sarcasm demeanor even towards the likes of her was nowhere to be found. It's almost as if he let go of being the more gentle spirit in the Bat family. Like something changed him, something more than just being beaten to a bloody doll from the Joker, "I'm only telling the truth Richard Grayson. When this family was torn by not only the Joker, but Bruce, it never fully recovered. And while the little Bat and her Spider try to pick up the pieces on their own, holding what little reminiscent of this family had just before the new threats arise, you all lost your edge. And now? The enemy's are the one's taking the lead in this chess game for Gotham. So the only way we're ever gonna take out the kings, is by rallying up together."

Dick scoffed, "And why should we trust the demon head? Don't think any of us forgotten what you did to Jason."

Talia eyebrows arch at the mention of Jason. If it wasn't for Selina butting in between them, reeling Dick away from Talia, she would've likely commented back something about the former Robin, "Because what other choice do we have Dick?" Selina said, "If any of us, if all of us are gonna be able to fight this Knight character and this Carnage freak, we need all the help we can get," Selina then looked to Talia, holding a small glare, but one of recognition, an understanding to what needs to be done, "Especially from those we can't trust. And whether we like it or not," Selina turned her attention back to Dick, "It was Jason's choice of becoming who he is now."

Talia let herself smile, she wouldn't deny that out of all people Selina got it before she could say a single word, "See? Even Bruce's own Cat agrees. And to elaborate more on Jason, Richard, I simply guided him when he needed the most," a small frown appeared on her lip, "While I don't approve of his character right now, he made his decision on the path he's on."

"Well maybe he wouldn't be like that if it wasn't for you!" Dick almost shouted.

"Stop Dick!" Cassandra shouted from a far, her own shout caused her to groan in pain just from the small amount of exertion on herself.

"This isn't the time for this Dick," now it was Barbara's turn to make her voice known, "We have bigger things to worry about then the past or someone that isn't even here to begin with."

Dick turns to his family, glaring at almost everyone, "Someone has to say something! To call her out on her past actions!"

"Dick.." Bruce steadily walked to Dick, "Why are you pushing that subject all times?"

"I...I..." Dick looked away, now ashamed for even blowing up on everyone involving a person that again, wasn't here and shouldn't be the focus. But he then looked back at Talia who had her arms crossed, "I just don't trust her.."

"Hmph...I made a point of not stepping on either of you all feet ever since I took over my father's place. These arguments? These back and forth talks going on right now? We don't need to fight an endless battle that involves constant disagreements. If we wanna win in this game of chess then we need to again, keep it together, have our focus on our goals, and respect each other's perspectives regardless of what we've done in the past," Talia boldly said, using her wisdom to get through Dick's thick head at this time.

Everyone quietly couldn't help but agree with the demon head. If anything, the bickering and mistrust for Talia or themselves is not gonna help either of them tackle the major problem at hand. Talia see's, and now hears, how broken this family has become. With one person causing the crack, everyone was folding because of it. When another person can't control the situation, then things start to shatter. And if one person is out of the fight, then the alliance dwindles ever so slowly, 'It's a shame to see how this family became...2 years ago nothing like this would break them or cause disruption amongst one another. Yet now? It seems I have to be the one to control the situation,' Talia briefly eyed Bruce, who's focus went back on Peter with everything calming down, 'What happened to the man I love? The man who took charge of this family? You entrusted this little Bat, and she has yet to learn true leadership,' Talia gave a small sigh, 'It's up to me. If the little Bat wants to lead, then she needs to learn to take a step forward and decide. She can't rely on others to decide, not even her Spider.'

"Yeah well... Trying to kill me before my marriage was stepping on my feet," Selina made a comment in hopes to lighten the mood.

Talia smugness returned when looking at Bruce's wife, "You know I had to do that to see if you were worthy of my be-"

"Finish that word, I dare you."

Again, Dick scoffed as he distanced himself from the two, "Maybe we really have lost our edge if we're gonna be working for this bitch," he muttered to himself.

Suddenly, Bruce's eyebrow shrewd when noticing Peter's heart rate dipping. As soon as he noticed this, Peter's own body started trembling, shaking, spazzing out of control, his brain wave began going erratic, and the sound of him choking on his saliva was echoing out of the Batcave, "Barbara! Start pumping him with high dosage of oxcarbazepine," Barbara would wheel herself to find this particular drug, "EVERYONE! HOLD HIM DOWN!"

They did so. Dick, Selina, Talia, Alfred, Bruce, and even Cassandra did so. Peter's own strength was a problem even in his unconscious state. He was able to rip his hands away from his friends rather easily, and the likes of Cassandra had to sit on him to somehow keep him stable enough for everyone to hold him, "COME ON PETER! STAY STILL!" Dick shouted, holding the base of his body in place while everyone held each of his limbs. Somehow, Dick's own strength was doing the legwork while Cassandra held on to Peter's upper body as tightly as she could, even if it pained her.

Seeing how Dick strength was keeping Peter steady didn't went unnoticed to the likes of Bruce and Talia. But they can't presume what they have yet to understand at this time. Barbara was quick with the anti seizure drug, using a high potent version specifically for Peter, it ended up calming him down, stopping the seizure all together. Barbara glanced at the two monitors, seeing them all slowly go back to regular levels, "Vitals are improving. Whatever Kasady's partner had done to Peter, it seemed to have some more lingering effects."

"Will…It happen again?" Cassandra asked, one hand holding his hand while the other was caressing his head.

"That's the thing about Peter, whatever happens to him can't always correlate to normal people. Best possibility is no, worst possibility, it could happen any second."

The only thing any of them can do was hope that Peter bounces back. Because they're gonna need him just as much as he needs them.

---

November 15

"WHERE THE HELL IS PARKER?! OUR NETWORK HAD FUCKING CRASHED!" The one and only J Jonah Jameson screamed out loud in his office that the many people in the gazette could hear.

Robbie, who was in the room getting some water, shrugged, "Not sure, last I heard he was with Vicki before the now dubbed Carnage massacre happened."

Jameson briefly let go of his frustration. Knowing Peter could've been injured or worse was more important than his website crashing, "Well! Have you called him? Has anyone called him? Every Time I've done it, it went straight to his voicemail!"

"Same on my end. Perhaps Vicki would know."

Speaking of Vicki, she just came right into the office, looking a bit more tired than she usually was, "Sorry I'm late I-"

"Have you seen Parker Vale?!"

Vicki pushed part of her red hair from eyelids and took out her phone that had a knowing message for Jameson, "Hi everyone, or just Jonah. First off I am fine, and secondly, I am recovering from the veterans parade chaos. I took some nasty shots that lace me with a concussion. I'll make sure to let you know when I'm able to work again. Oh and thanks Vicki, you're the best."

Jameson sighed, "Great! Now I lost one of my best assets today! When the hell is he here anyhow?!" Jameson the last bit more to himself.

Vicki couldn't help but raise her eyebrow, "This is the first I'm hearing this. You hear that right Robbie?"

He shrugs, "Sometimes I tune him out that whatever he says I don't often believe."

"Har har har! Laugh it up you two, now I need someone to fix this god damn site! NED!" the Asian man that was Ned came rushing in, "FIX THIS SITE!"

"But I'm not the guy in the chair!"

"WHO CARES! FIX IT!" Sulking, Ned did what he was told.

Meanwhile as Jonah and Robbie were discussing more on what today's page would be like today, Vicki would actually end up texting Cassandra of all people.

Vicki: Thanks again for the AI excuse!

Cass: Thank Barbara.

Vicki: Well you would have to do that for me. Anyhow, if you need anything, I'm here.

Cass: The Knight, check Arkham. Barbara and Alfred are searching too. Can you too?

Vicki: Tall order, but will get it done today. Nothing like an additional support to find something on this guy or gal.

With today's plan, Vicki would need either a coffee or a red bull to get her through it. Possibly coffee.

---

Cassandra was for once resting. While the concussion was minor enough to heal, especially with the equipment they had in the Batcave, she needed some rest. The past couple of days weren't good for her to just sit and rest.

She tried being useful elsewhere, tried being the key factor. She tried helping Alfred with maintaining Wayne Manor, but he does a way better job than she ever could and dismisses her helpful gestures. She tried helping Barbara with tracking down either Kasady or Arkham Knight, but she too says she got it under control with Dick keeping an eye on Gotham for the time being. She even asked Dick if he needed some type of recon on ground level, but like the others, he told her no.

Bruce had to be out in the open, handling the damage of his enterprise but also making public statements of what went on.

She wanted to ask Selina if she could be of use to her job with helping the orphans in Gotham, but she doesn't exactly know how to handle kids properly, or more so, she's more scared of hurting them when she wouldn't mean too. Like dropping them on their head or trying to help them but ends up just hurting them. She easily bowed out from ever asking her when those thoughts came to her in an instance. And yet, thinking of kids made her think about the possibilities of having one, and it didn't help that she laid her head near the stretcher that had Peter sleeping soundly. So far for the past few days, not much progress happened to his recovery and he still suffered a few seizures occurring, something she took care of when others were busy. Like always, she kept a close eye on him, watching his heart and brain monitor appear relatively normal.

But again, her thoughts linger on children's, something she tries not to think about often, but now has been coming to her mind ever so diligently, 'What would our kids...Be like..?' She asked herself, 'Would I be a good mother? Better than my parents?' She both scoffed and eyeroll, 'Course I will...I want too...So can I?' Her doubt hit her just when she had the confidence in herself a second ago. Unlike most things in life that she's been through and is going through, parenthood scares Cassandra the most. Being raised by an assassin of a father, and not knowing who her mother was still her younger adult years only strive for her to either stay away from parenthood, or be better than them.

But again, it scares so much that she'll end up like them; striving to have her own child learn, fight, conquer, even if it's from a good place instead of a negative place. Along with fearing to be a parent, it meant being afraid of being able to keep her relationship with Peter, 'I'm messing it up,' she cradle herself as she watched Peter, 'I knew I would've...I hoped I wouldn't...I'm messing it up...And now I'm scared he's gonna realize that I truly...am not good for him...2 years together...We had...Ups and down's...Yet...This feels like the worst...Because it's things that might've...Been there for awhile...And I feel like...It's my fault...Of opening up a hole between us...And being the one to swept it under...Just to keep us...Happy...' In reality, this moment allowed Cassandra to take note that they were so busy with Gotham, that they never found time to discuss some things that needed to be discussed. And every time Peter had tried, Cassandra would shut it down, or other things would come in the way to deny the first step he always made.

The only thing she can do at this moment is blame herself for not being what Peter wanted, '...I can't compare to her...His first love...I can't...'

In her moment of solitude that involved her self-reproach, Barbara and Cassandra were really the only proactive one in the Bat cave while others were off doing something of their own. Cassandra believes Alfred had run some errands, possibly more personal errands than anything. She didn't know, couldn't know, or couldn't care to know because her self loathing was coming about. At this time, she's too focused on putting the blame on herself for hurting Peter, and she's letting herself believe how inadequate she is compared to his former lover Gwen Stacy, "Cass, you might wanna head upstairs. I think one of Peter's friend's is about to be beheaded by the demon head," Barbara said nonchalant, causing Cassandra to peek up from her position, and saw the camera from the Wayne entrance showcase a familiar redhead woman trying to appease Talia as she was threatening her with a sword.

Cassandra sighs to herself, she knew somehow she was gonna confront her again. And like before, it's without Peter. Cassandra would get up from seat and jog back upstairs, taking the stairs that lead to the entrance to the living room. She reached just in time to hear the commotion, "Again, state your business or else."

"Or else what? You'll slit my throat?" Mary Jane scoffed and eye roll, "You're not the first and you're not the last woman."

Talia would've praised her courage if she was in the mood, but she isn't at this time, "Then I'll make sure I am the last."

Cassandra grabs Talia's arm, stopping her from doing anything bloody that will only cause more trouble, "Friendly."

"To you, but not to me," Talia kept her gaze on Mary Jane, who didn't look to be threatened even before Cassandra came to her aid, "For all we know, she could be possibly working with them. Are you willing to let this person live so that they can hurt your family?"

Talia brought up a good question, but again, it was unnecessary since this was someone she knows, that Peter knows, "She won't. Back down."

Talia didn't, for a second glaring at Cassandra and then at Mary Jane while still holding the blade and readying to strike. But she groaned, and pushed Cassandra away from her, "If she so happens bring them here, then whoever shall perish is on you."

While she walked away from them, Mary Jane again scoffed at the position she was just in, "You really live with that bitch? Acting like I'm some assassin that wants to hurt her. Jeez, Peter told me that she not only has a high ego but is also as paranoid as Bruce."

"What are you doing here?" Cassandra asked, stopping Mary Jane from breaking the air of awkwardness with a joke.

Something she must've picked up from Peter, "Can I at least come in?" Her body shrivels that not even her hands in her pocket can stop the cold from bothering her. After all, it was November and winter was fast approaching. Cassandra would sidestep, letting Mary Jane in as she closed the door, "Jeez… How do you deal with the cold?" Cassandra didn't answer her, not like Mary Jane was expecting her too, "See the place hasn't changed much," she noted when looking around, "Not like I've ever been here much. Came here a few times just to check on Peter, or that one time I needed help-"

"Mary, what do you want?" Cassandra again asked.

Mary Jane normally would've been turned off by someone using her name singular, but this wasn't the type of person to complain to about that, "Isn't it obvious?" She turned to Cassandra, who looked at her both curious and impatient, but also put off by her appearance.

She knew why she was here, it was clearly obvious, yet she hoped it wasn't for him, "He's fine."

Mary Jane frowned, not wanting a simple answer that's not as simple to begin with, "I can't see him? Or is he somewhere that I can't have access to?"

"Both."

The air was tense between them. How could it not be when it was Mary Jane and Cassandra Cain standing toe to toe with one another? One who has or had feelings for Peter, and the other who is involved with Peter, 'And so the air becomes thicker and thicker with nothing sharp to cut the ice in between,' Mary Jane commented to herself.. Since she was here, she might as well do what an adult does when there's a problem with another person, "..Look, since you're here and I'm here. I'm gonna try to clear the air here since much of this tense stuff between us is my doing."

Cassandra stared at her, searching for a lie in her expression and body language. But it honestly didn't even take her no less then a second to see that Mary Jane wants this. The way she still kept her hands in her pocket, the way her eyes kept focus on her, and the fact that her tone of voice was more earnest then anything just told her that Mary Jane wants this. Maybe not to be friends with her directly, but to at least make sure they both have a clear conscious that one or the other doesn't hate each other, "Why now?"

Mary Jane didn't answer at first, scratching her hair, "Um…Guess you can say its long overdue. Or think it just has to do with the fact you fell off an 80 story building, almost dying, then stuff with Peter…" Mary Jane sighs, "...Really it's just knowing that I had in a play of…Hurting you and never was able to say sorry. I rather do it now before it's too late, you read me?"

Cassandra was taken aback, she didn't think Mary Jane would ever do this, but here she was, proving her wrong. Then again, Cassandra didn't expect anything between them in the first place. With all that has been on her mind, this was furthest from her.

But she'll welcome it as it can take her mind off Peter.

Cassandra would gesture her head to follow her. They ended up walking into the living room where the fireplace lit up the dark room just a bit more since it was cloudy outside in the afternoon. They sat far apart from one another, with Cassandra bare feet deciding to crouch on the couch and Mary Jane deciding to take off her coat and sit properly on the couch, "Erm…" Mary Jane's finger scratches her cheek, trying to find a way to start this discussion as Cassandra simply waits. If anything, the way Cassandra stared at Mary Jane made her uncomfortable; it looked to be cold, no ounce of emotion, stoic like, and almost can give a vibe of someone with a tilt of a head, can kill a person on the fly.

Something Mary Jane knows she's capable of doing, but wouldn't ever do unlike Batman had once did, "I um…Am sorry that I told you before, the last time we really saw each other, that he doesn't deserve you. As you probably know, I was drunk, real drunk, heh," Mary Jane pushed a strand of her long curly hair away from her forehead. Cassandra noticed more and more of her nervousness being flaunted at this time, and she was unaware that she was also causing it, "...I shouldn't have been since I was supposed to be a recovering alcoholic."

'Knew of this. Peter told me enough; party girl he met in college. Dreamt about acting, modeling, and using money to help...Those in need,' to Cassandra, in the past, she often sounded like this fantasy woman who dreams big, but yet rather spoils the younger years being wild and crazy than anything. And drinking being one of them, yet she didn't know she was trying to quit before the outburst she spat at her that day.

Cassandra remembers it clear as day, only causing her to frown, and at least, expressing some emotion that made Mary Jane at ease.

---

2 years ago

Cassandra was supposed to be having a rather nice evening before she dons her Bat costume and helps out Steph, Tim, and Peter for a usual routine patrol of Gotham. Heck, she was practicing her ballet since she had been taking some classes thanks to Bruce. It meant her talent was growing and soon she would be going on stage. Though if she was honest, the people said she was good enough to dance on stage. But Cassandra felt there needed to be some work. Then there was the added need to keep her drawing up, remember her work at the nearby café place tomorrow, and keep note of her date with Peter aswell.

Safe to say, her life has been rather different around this time. But change was good, she felt good, she liked the chance of being able to do stuff similar to her family and Peter. It makes her feel human, feel alive in fact. Along with the apartment she got thanks to Alfred that had everything she needed, she's hoping that Peter can for once stop living on his own and start living with her. If anything, Cassandra felt he's been more over the place, 'Justice League, Titans, magic, his Spider family, his job, and us...He's all over the place...' Cassandra felt herself sighing, 'Glad he's here...But he doesn't often feel like he's here...Yet it's because of the responsibilities he has now...'

While Cassandra respects all that he's doing nowadays, part of her is envious of that. She would stop dancing, finding herself getting distracted when thinking about her amazing boyfriend. It didn't help that she also heard her doorbell buzzing and went to see who it was. Cassandra was then somewhat surprised to see Peter's friend, Mary Jane Watson standing in her front door apartment. Her viridescent eyes were lucid just as her body had a hard time standing that one hand had to hold her body steady on the door edges. The other hand was holding a bottle, with some liquid still in it, and Cassandra noted it was a bottle of vodka. She was also a mess with the apparent clothing being damp, hanging enough she can almost see her breast, pants barely hanging, her hair all over the place, and her make up being smudge like she was crying. It was very odd that she looked like this when the night was approaching. Cassandra would assume she was stupid for this, but she wasn't, she knew she wasn't, "FUCK YOU!" She shouted.

Cassandra eyebrow steadily raised, keeping quiet and trying to process how in the world she knows where she lives? 'Must've followed Peter..' Internally, she sighed but couldn't blame him, 'He be tired half the time that he can't...Be observant all the time...Plus, I change my route every time, and use underground routes to reach my head...Quarters.'

"WHY THE FUCK YOU HAD TO TAKE HIM…" Mary Jane briefly stopped her sentence, vomiting on the floor that only made Cassandra expression scrunch further of what she was seeing. Mary Jane used her clothing to wipe the vomit from her mouth, "...Why the fuck...YOU TOOK HIM FROM ME!"

Cassandra let herself take a second to breath and calm the nerves that were irritated by what she had to deal with, "Mary you're drunk. Go home," Cassandra said.

"YOU DON'T GET TO TELL ME WHAT TO DO…! I DON'T CARE IF YOU KNOW HOW TO KICK MY ASS SIDEWAYS OR UPWAYS! ALL I HAVE TO SAY IS…FUCK YOU! YOU STOLE HIM FROM ME! ME!" She screamed, and pointed to herself as she screamed, "HE WAS MINE! I WAS THERE FOR HIM! I WAS THERE WHEN HE LOST GWEN! YOU WEREN'T! NONE OF YOU BAT PEOPLE WERE! I WAS THERE WHEN HE NEEDED SOMEONE! I WAS THERE FOR EVERYTHING HE'S BEEN THROUGH SINCE SHE DIED! HE'LL NEVER TRUST YOU! AND I DON'T KNOW WHY HE'S GOTTEN CLOSE TO ANY OF YOU, ESPECIALLY YOU...!" Tears began linking through her eyes, as she took a sip of more alcohol from her bottle, "...Why you..Of all people...He went with you…. I know him….I know him as much as Gwen does….So why did he chose you over me…?"

Cassandra couldn't exactly answer that as easily as she wanted too, '...It was simple...' She thought to herself about the question, 'I can't drink...Bad at holding my weight...We talked...Sex happened, and then...We happen,' Cassandra found herself frowning at how easily she could've said that to Mary Jane, but she held her tongue back, 'Not true... Still dealing alot; heart breaks, losses, world fighting us so we can stay down...Moment of weakness, it happened...Can't tell her that, only break her more. She wouldn't understand, and she doesn't deserve to know.'

It was a vindictive thought to conclude too, but Cassandra felt she was in the right to know she has Peter. She won't let go of him, not for someone like her. She went to take the bottle away so she could possibly try to calm her down, "Go home. Rest. Stop this," Cassandra said, trying to convince Mary Jane.

Hearing that one more time, she growled, and threw the bottle at her. Cassandra caught it with ease, "FUCK OFF! YOU DON'T DESERVE HIM! YOU DON'T KNOW HIM LIKE I DO," She shouted more closer to her with Cassandra having to wipe the bit of spit from her face that was being let out, "YOU DON'T…You don't….Fuck…" her gaze drifted downwards. Cassandra noticed the shame she was having for herself, and she was hoping that she was realizing what she's doing is a bad look for her, "..You can't even talk right… And yet he falls for you?" Mary Jane looks back up to Cassandra. Instead of shame, now it's just anger and jealousy, something that only infuriated Cassandra more. She didn't care for the tears, the make up being further ruined, Cassandra just hates the position she's in right now, and it wasn't the first time she's been in this position before, '...What did Peter ever see in these women...? All I see is ego, ignorance, toxic, controlling... Why do I have to deal with this? These people?' she questioned herself, 'Felicia...Komand'r, and now her...? Who else do I have to keep dealing with..?'

"...It's not fair that you get to…Have him…And what do I get…?" Mary Jane continued saying, with Cassandra expression dancing between being tired of the bullshit, and outright bored of the bullshit, "WHAT DO I GET FOR ALL THE THINGS I DID FOR HIM?! FOR THE FEW TIMES WE TOLD EACH OTHER THAT WE DO LOVE EACH OTHER! WHY DID HE DID THIS TO ME?! WHY DID YOU DO THIS TO ME?! WHY DO YOU EXIST?! WHY DO YOU EVEN GET TO HAVE HIM WHEN I SHOULD'VE?! I NEEDED HIM! I NEEDED HIM FOR SO LONG! AND YOU TOOK HIM AWAY FROM ME! ALL YOU PEOPLE DID!"

Cassandra kept her face straight, didn't give her much of the answer that Mary Jane desperately wanted to know. And why should she? She didn't owe Mary Jane anything, nor did she again deserve any type of response to the question she's asking.

And it didn't help that Cassandra's ears perked up when hearing someone open her window behind. She caught Mary Jane's eyes widened, and a brief glance behind her was seeing Peter coming through her window from the fire escape, near her bedroom. He had his more casual clothing and he likely had his costume in his bag behind him. Cassandra saw everything in the moment Peter drew closer to the two women; disappointment, shock, small anger, annoyance, disgust, and tragically, shame, not for Mary Jane, but for Cassandra as she had to deal with his problems.

It warmed Cassandra's heart to see that, to know that she can tell he didn't mean to keep bringing his women's problems to her front door, and she knows it's not his fault. But she truly wishes to be at peace with him more than anything.

After all, she has him now, so no one should rag on her, or their relationship to begin with.

The redhead tried running, but ended up falling on the ground due to the vomit's still being present. Slipping and falling, she ended up crying in misery at all that happened. Peter didn't need to say anything to Cassandra, nor did she. They watched as this poor young woman was lying on the ground, wallowing, grieving at all she did and said. Peter would give her a kiss on her forehead while gently touching her hand.

It was his way of saying sorry and that he'll handle the mess he brought to her home.

---

Present day

"That day wasn't a good one, terrible actually.." Mary Jane mentioned, an underestimate of the year if anything, "Lost a role to someone who simply looked better than me. The tv show I was working on got canceled, I didn't have much money to pay for my apartment, modeling gig was a big phony crap for Mysterio, and worst of all, Peter told me some days before that he's involved with you...It meant whatever feelings or things we said to each other in the past, it can't happen," she then shrugs, "I tried not to care about it, but it got to me, even worse when one day just for a second… I saw you spending time with him, kissing him, doting on him as I was in a cab, and you both were on the roof of all things…Places that I can't reach, not like you guys. Turns out.. You live close to that area that Pete swings around at, and it's why...I did what I did."

As she listened, Cassandra noticed the one thing that always seemed to distract her on things she should be aware of, was Peter. Being with him romantically means putting all of her focus on him, instead of being who she is. In the past, she had blamed Peter for it, but now it was more so her being clumsy and mushy with Peter. The back of her head would berate her initiative ability to know things since she was trained to be aware of her surroundings no matter where she's at. Funny enough, she can hear the likes of Peter or Barbara telling her that she's only human, that there are somethings she'll miss, that there are somethings she can't just know first hand, 'Everything takes its time... While some things are meant to be learned before becoming exquisite in it...Alfred words are still there,' she thought to herself, remembering more of Alfred wisdom that now is having an impact on now.

Sometimes, in rare moments like this, she starts having bipolar thoughts, one that involves her wanting to end things with Peter so that she won't be distracted. She wants to be focused, focus on the Arkham Knight and their army, focus on Carnage and his army, she doesn't want any more distractions. But she can't just blame Peter, or when her family is coming together, slowly and surely. Because of that, she wants her family back, she wants everyone back. The small amounts that are here right now, she just wants to be around them.

Either way, it'll break everyone's heart, including Peter, if she isolates herself and destroys whatever bond she has with them just for the mission at hand. She never knew how to deal with these thoughts properly, they kept coming and going as they pleased, and it only seemed to tie her down of not being able to handle it. She doesn't know how to balance out the mission, and her relationship with everyone, and she personally feels that it'll come down to sacrificing something.

Because something has to give, and it just seems there is a need to choose which should she prioritize the most since doing both is complicated. If she could, she would ask for Bruce's guidance, but she can't, she can't face him.

It was odd because now, it's not just Peter she's thinking about, but also her family, her bonds with them, her relationship with all of them, the good and the bad that comes with it. She's thinking about all that and if it's truly necessary to be around them at the end of the day, 'Am I...Even worthy...To have them by my side..? To protect them? I can push...But they'll come back...I can isolate...But they'll be there...No matter what I do...I don't know what to do...'

Being deep in thought, being lost in thought, she almost didn't notice Mary Jane trying to get her attention. So when she went to touch her, Cassandra automatically twisted her finger, almost breaking it, "OW!"

Cassandra eyes widened, letting go of her finger that touched her knee go, "S-sorry… Didn't break it?"

"Damn well could've," she said, massaging her finger to numb the pain, "Maybe I deserve that anyhow."

Cassandra let out a small gasp before frowning, "You don't," Cassandra said.

"You don't need to be nice like that. Even if it was ages ago, I said stuff that wasn't right on my end," Mary Jane eyes drifted away, giving off a somber look in her expression as her hands twirl her more shorter, curly hair that almost resembles Koriand'r hair at one point if it was longer, "And it paint me as a bad person like how my father treated me."

Cassandra's eyes steadily widen; reading her detachedness along with the restraint of holding back those painful memories says it all for Cassandra, "You too?"

Mary Jane's eyebrow arched, "What do you mean?"

Cassandra made herself a little more comfortable, sitting cross legged on the couch, "Father…Hit you too?" Mary Jane opens her mouth and closes at the same time. Cassandra knew this was a subject she doesn't like talking about, but they were making up, they were finding ground. A sore subject for sure, but something they both can latch onto. For once, Cassandra wanted to try to take a leap at things similar to how Peter handle's his more civilian life. That includes conversations she always tends to struggle at when it comes to people that aren't like her, and for the redhead in front of her, she recognizes that she too had issues with her father.

Physical and mental abuse at that, "My father…Was the same," Cassandra frowned. She was peeling back her own memories of what she remembers about what it was like being raised by her father, "Hit me. Train me. Want me to learn. Learn how to fight. Fight with… Eyes," she gestures to them, "See what…Others can't see… Made me kill… And…" she looked at her hands, still remembering what it was like taking that person's life away.

Going for the throat.

Easily tearing through the veins.

Then bled out.

She remembers it so easily, and everyday, she hopes she wouldn't have to do it again,"...Made me feel empty…" She closed her eyes for a second, "I ran…And spent years…" She clutched her fist, "..On my own, till I found this city…" she open her eyes, staring at her now open hand, "Till I found this family," Cassandra looked to Mary Jane, who listen diligently to her story of what made her who she is, "Till I found him."

Mary Jane didn't think she would get to hear this type of story from her. She knew that the whole Bat family went through a lot of traumatic things over the years, but hearing Cassandra hit differently. Mostly because they have something in common, and even if she didn't know the rest, Mary Jane could say she barely knew Cassandra the most, 'Gwen knew them more than I do. I just know the bare minimum because I was lucky to even get to see who was under the mask. And Bruce threaten me very harshly of what he would do if everyone's identity went out because of me,' remembering that day only made her shiver, 'Couldn't imagine if I was talking to man that started killing about a year ago,' she shook her head, wanting to keep focus on the conversation she was having with Cassandra, "...H-How old-"

"Can't remember… Felt like…Ever since I was born…Was trained…Killed at 13, only thing I can remember..."

Mary Jane felt her eyes widen, and her ends went to her mouth upon hearing that. What hurts more is how it didn't faze Cassandra; her frown, posture all remain the same. While Mary Jane never went through such trauma as that, it made her realize that common ground they have with one another at this point, something she never thought she would find with her, "I… I didn't go through all that, probably wouldn't be who I am today I guess… But part of it made me into a party person, kind of toxic person you can say," similar to Cassandra, Mary Jane brought her legs up to couch, crossing her legs together, "With how my father was, with how sick my mother was, and having a sister who I tried to endure all the pain so she and my mother wouldn't suffer? At some point I just...Crack. I didn't want the responsibility that came with my family name, and wanted to have fun, wherever and whenever that was. It meant drinking, smoking weed, and a bit of drugs that almost got me killed..." Mary Jane felt her eyes again move away from Cassandra, feeling she was seeing through her very soul to which she kind of was, "It was...A self destructive way to cope with how my father was. In turn, my mother got more sick, the pressure of handling everything became too much, but I stuck to it till I was 18. So when I became an adult, I ran like hell away from everything; my dying mother, my poor sister, and my drunk of a father...Worst decision I made, but I wanted to escape, to be an actor, modeler, whatever it is that can make me rich and famous... Whatever it takes to run away from the past..And somehow help people…Making me a very hypocritical person."

Like Mary Jane, Cassandra listened and said nothing as she continued, "...Moving to Gotham was my chance. It was my chance to finally take control of my life, to be someone. And I choose that person to be, because I felt like I deserve it in some way. That I deserve to have fun however way I want, right? That all that shit I've been through, finding an way to escape him? At the cost of leaving behind the two people I cared about?" Mary Jane gave a brief giggle, one that again was out of nervousness, "I thought it was god's gift for me when I saw the opening…But it wasn't really… My mom ended up dying and I wasn't there for her, my sister till this day resented me for it. So I party harder because of it, and hope to god my acting and modeling dream can come to life so I can escape all that shit.. If I hadn't met Peter, then Gwen, and a guy name Harry,"

"Knew of him. Father was the Green Goblin."

Mary Jane scoffed at that villain, "Course...Who wouldn't know of that scum...Either way, I wouldn't be sitting here trying to make amends if it was not…" Mary Jane's brighter viridescent eyes look back up to Cassandra, "...To be better, be a better friend even. We weren't really friends like that..But still, you and I knew each other through Peter, had our little misadventure where I helped out how I can when it came to the hero stuff…" Mary Jane then sighed, rubbing her eyes and taking a deep breath in and out with how emotional this conversation was for her, "...Yet, I'm still nothing compared to Gwen."

There was that name again, the person that Peter loved first before her, or anyone of that matter. The person where she herself feels so inadequate to, and she wasn't the only one to feel that way, "...She was really important… Not just to him, but to you," Cassandra acknowledged.

Mary Jane nodded, "She was the one that stopped me from overdosing funny enough. She got Peter to web swing me to hospital, and he and Harry ended up fucking up those who sold me the drug. They all made my life better. And while I had my moment of going competition for Peter's feelings with Gwen, that girl was right in the end…" Again, Mary Jane found herself laughing, this time more out of happiness than being nervous, "I remember this one time, before I had to clean up my act, she told me because of who I am, Peter would never want to be with me. And even years later, it seems that was the case. He's got you, and you got him," she shrugs, "I never quite was good at hitting the jackpot, but I really wanted to be with him," she said honestly, "But that's life, sometimes it's a game of not being fair, and learn how to roll with the punches."

Cassandra nodded, getting what she meant. She can also hear the love and aspiration for Peter. She really wants him to till this day, and that she still has trouble moving on. Cassandra looks down, where her feet now lay flat on the floor. She felt ashamed that she got involved with Peter knowing he can have her, that there is something far deeper that she likely doesn't have with Peter. With how much she went through, with how much she wanted to change, and she truly changed not just for him, but herself, Cassandra doesn't know if she's like that.

She doesn't know if, even for 2 years, that she and Peter are right for each other, "...What if you can have him?" Cassandra asked.

Mary Jane looked at her bewilder, before glaring, "..No."

"Bu-"

"No," she got up from her couch, crouched low to her Cassandra and almost made contact with her hand. Out of instinct, Cassandra flinched and made sure her hand wasn't touched. So instead, Mary Jane kept herself close to Cassandra, face to face, "You don't get to give him up, not when you have him in your life," Mary Jane's expression softened, seeing something familiar in Cassandra's eyes. Not from her own experience from the hundreds of times when consulting with Peter, "Your scared," Cassandra felt her heart beat pick up, "That your not good enough," her breath felt like it halted, "That because of who you are, and what you are capable of, that you don't deserve him," then she looked away, now being the reverse of Mary Jane from earlier. This was Mary Jane's chance, touching her hands, letting Cassandra accept her comfort, accept the fact that she understands, that she knows where her mind is at right now. Thus, it slowly allowed Cassandra to look into Mary Jane's viridescent eyes, "You can't lose him, not right now, not when you need him just as much as he needs you, and that goes for everyone else. And if by god hands, I know Peter probably thinks the same way you're thinking deep down. That maybe everyday as much as he tries, as much as he succeeds, as much as he fails, he doesn't entirely deserve you, the good you brought to his life when it was always complicated, problematic, and tragic at times with a similar mindset as you. Therefore, he is always willing to fight to stay in your life, to prove to himself and you, that he can be the most amazing boyfriend he can be to you."

The odd thing was that Cassandra reached a point where nothing can frighten her, except losing her family, losing Peter, and being exactly like her parents if she ever became a mother. But somehow, the thought of losing every bit of Peter because of giving into those thoughts, only frightened her more than anything as Mary Jane easily saw. Yes, she can lose the Bat family she became a part of, but what she now realizes was that she's been through that already, and it was Peter who would keep his presence in those lonely days.

It's here Cassandra realizes that Mary Jane was right, 'It's why he quit the Justice League, stopped helping around other places, and kept his focus here...He doesn't want to...Mess up as he did with his Aunt.'

But even as she realized this, doubt settled in, and it was more so about her than him, "... I don't know…How to be with him…In a way, he wants me too… I don't know…If I can go back to…Trying to live my life outside of…Fighting."

"Then talk," She said with confidence, the confidence that came back in her voice, and a similar advice other's told her but she had yet to do, "Find the time and talk to him. Talk about everything you've been feeling; the doubts, the worries, the frightful future, and the prospect of what you don't want to happen. Be truthful to him, and don't hold back," Mary Jane gave a small smile, "He's Peter Parker, he can take anything and keep going forward. And your Cassandra, be open, more open. And I get it, you probably don't want to either. Yet you can't give up on him, not with what you have with him and how long you've had it. He's never been happier with a person since his time with Gwen."

"What about Felicia?"

Mary Jane scoffed and eye roll, "The less it is said about her, the better. Just know, Peter went through a phase that involved him with the likes of Felicia and the one alien girl. But he dropped that till he got with you."

"But what if we didn't happen…?" Doubt still plague Cassandra, questioning and questioning if she's even capable of being the one for Peter, "And… he went with you…? Wouldn't he…Be happy too?"

Mary Jane again shrugs, "Maybe, maybe not. It didn't happen, so we'll never happen. You both happen, so don't worry about me cause I won't do anything to destroy that relationship you have with him," her eyes squint briefly, knowing she had tried before, "Anymore that is," she added a jest.

In retrospect, it got Cassandra to softly giggle, just as Mary Jane did for herself. Hearing Mary Jane say that, seeing her expression lifted up compared to earlier, it was a sign that she was growing and learning to live without Peter no matter how hard it is. The talk was enough to clear the thoughts from Cassandra's brain, to let the doubts go and be confident that Peter won't leave her. It helps that Cassandra came to a softer conclusion, in that this was a hurdle she needed to get over with Peter.

They're love is strong, but to be stronger, she needs to learn to take the step forward. Take a note in Peter's book. She needs to let her emotions in, she needs to reconnect with her emotions with him, and she needs to embrace her feelings if she wants to keep Peter by her side. She wants to be the Bat, but she also wants to keep him. She's been thinking more and more about sacrificing for one or the other.

But here right now, with Mary Jane help, she wants to do both; be the Bat in Gotham, but have someone she loves by her side through it all

Who would've thought Mary Jane Watson would help her see that in a time like this. Something she needed to give her confident into how to move forward.

Chapter 13: Chess

If it's the one place Vicki hated being in or even going to in the first place, it was Arkham Asylum. Add to the fact that dawn had reached didn't help unnerve her any less. She's a busy woman, all types of news needing covering, ground needed searching, and she had to put the Asylum in the back seat just a bit. Not to mention, she needed to keep her alliance with the Bat and Spider a secret. If anyone, including Jameson knows of this, it would be a scandal that would lead to her, both getting fired and hounded by GCPD into cooperating with what else she knows about them. Not like it was gonna happen since Dewolff made it clear that the GCPD would be working with them, and no officer would even dare to cross her boundary just to try to apprehend the vigilante's.

While the Asylum guards escorted her to intensive treatment, she had to deal with a few outbursts from the insane inmates, "HEY RED! YOU LOOK BETTER DRIP IN BLOOD!"

"Shitttt! A fine one FINALLY!"

Some tried to reach out to her, wanting more than just a piece of her hair. But again, she had guards to protect her as they made sure to put them in their place with either of them smacking the inmates with their rifles or jolting them with a stun baton. It was ruthless, but some people don't realize that to fight the insane you might need to fight fire with fire.

Violence with violence.

She sighs to herself, 'This place… God… Years and years later, it still hasn't changed.'

"Hey don't have that look Vale," The guard noticed her gloomy look as they reached the elevator and pushed the button to up, "You picked a better night to show up. It's more quiet today than anything, and much of those super psychos that Batman warped are actually sedated."

She almost forgot about them; the criminals that used to go toe to toe with Bruce. Many of them are not right in the head anymore than they used to be. She didn't know what Bruce did, but she knows he's damned them to a fate worse than death, at least some who are alive, that is, "Feels like any other night is a bad night in my case," she said.

"Speaking of which, why are you here? Interviewing Spidey's bad guys again? Or maybe trying to have two face to talk again? If he can, that is," the other guard questioned.

"Not even, you both wouldn't happen to know anything about the Arkham Knight?" They looked at each other, quizzled and easily answered Vicki's answer before they could answer, "Don't worry about it if you don't know. Maybe Cash will know since he's probably the only one that's been around the longest."

"What about Strange?"

Her eyebrow arched at the mention of the psychologist, "Is he at all here? Ever since gaining ownership and running this place after his so-called, "rehabilitation," " she added air quotes, "About some months ago due to Jeremiah going mental and becoming the next black mask, I heard he's barely around. He mostly lets you all handle the work as he oversees it somewhere else. Let's not forget the Arkham city stunt he pulled like what? 5 years ago?"

"He might still be here actually, came here some hours ago to get updates on the super psycho's here. Don't know if he left or not."

This got Vicki intrigued upon entering the intensive treatment center. She saw veteran of the Asylum, Aaron Cash talking to Doctor Cooper. He looked to be rather annoyed when talking to the doctor, or maybe at Vicki as soon as his gaze drifted to her, "Another interview with inmates Vale? You know the policy here."

Vicki grinned, "Not today Cash, but you know I'll find a way to get what I want in the end," noticing the frown on Doctor Cooper's face, Vicki was aware of the slight tension between the two of them, "Is this a bad time?"

"Yes it is, Ms. Vale," Carlie said, having her arm crossed, "Unless you can convince mister Cash over here that my team needs their own privacy to some of the more silent inmates, then I suppose you should leave the primacy."

"And as I mention Doctor Cooper, for you and your team's own safety," Aaron said, "I'm not gonna let that happen ok? If you have a death wish that's on you, but if it means the people can have a clear conscience knowing that no one dies under our watch then will stick to protocols as always."

"Then I'll make my stay here quick," Vicki interrupted, gaining the two people's attention, "I hear Hugo actually showed up for once in his facility. Is he still here?"

Aaron went to answer but Doctor Cooper beat him to the point, "Mister Strange had to leave early due to other priorities on hand. He is in fact a busy man after all which is why he has people like Cash and me keeping the Asylum up to the task at hand," she spoke with pride in her voice.

Pride that Vicki can appoint to ego if left unchecked, "Hm," Vicki directed her eyes to the doctor, curiosity got to her of the fact she's able to command such authority like that. She knew of one other person that was like that, yet not like her, "And you must be Carlie Cooper, someone who studied under the late Penelope Young and worked her way to where she is now."

A surprise look appeared on Carlie's face as she adjusted her glasses, but as soon as it came it went away to a more poker-like expression, "I should've known a reporter like you would dig something on me."

Vicki's grin couldn't help but broaden just a bit. She won't lie that she likes when people get the jizz of who she is and what she has to do, even if it bother them, "Part of the job, plus you were elected as more than a doctor but of a second command of sorts when it came to handling the Asylum a few months ago. Not to mention, you kind of just popped up out of nowhere too, I couldn't help but be curious is all and been meaning to see you."

"And then you should know, I don't do interviews, Ms. Vale."

"Don't mind her Vicki, there were somethings Doctor Young seemed to pass on before her untimely passing," Aaron said, "So to make it easier on all of us, what is something that we can help you with Vicki?"

"Arkham Knight."

Aaron sighed, massaging his head in response since he should've figured this would've happened. Carlie scoffed with an added eyeroll that again had Vicki more interested in the doctor's reaction, emotions, and voice at play here then anything, "If we knew I think I or even Doctor Cooper here would've told the commissioner what we had."

"Well there's been proof that the carnage killer was inducted here once."

"And where'd you heard that from?" Carlie asked, her tone switching to being more interested and demanding at that information, "We would've known such a person was here."

"Can't identify my anonymous sources," Vicki grin remained on her face, adding a more slyness to it.

"Tsk," Carlie eye roll, "Of course."

"Cash, mind giving us a hand with Smythe here?" said a guard over Aaron's radio.

"Copy that," he responded, "Excuse me for a moment while I go handle one of web head's pals."

"Your excuse," Vicki said in a jester manner.

With Cash left, it was just Doctor Cooper and Vicki, "You're still here."

"That I am."

"Do I need to get the guards to escort you out Ms. Vale?"

"Technically yes, but something just piques my interest."

"And that is?"

"What's your take on the new villains of Gotham? Off the record that is."

"Why do you want to know my opinion at all?" She questioned while frowning at the conversation continuing on then it should, "It won't give you the leverage you want against them."

"Who said anything about leverage," Vicki let her arms rest on the desk that stands between them, "I'm just curious to know what your expert opinion on them is."

Doctor Cooper gave it some thought. She could simply say no, call security to get her out, but she felt Vicki was challenging her, challenging her perspective on these criminals. To what reason was beyond her, and Carlie wasn't doing anything of importance so she'll amuse the reporter for a bit, just to see what else she has under her sleeves, "..Cletus Kasady is someone who aspires to be like Joker. Instead of a clown, more like the demonic king of chaos. He wants nothing more than to simply do what Joker did, but in his own way, a more catastrophic way. Arkham Knight on the underhand…" There was a brief pause in her sentence, with her hands being placed under her chin, "They want to watch the world burn."

Vicki journalists' institution started kicking in with hearing a sentence like that, "Almost feels like you know something Doctor Cooper."

"Don't dig too much into it since it's not much there but my own opinion of what I think these people are or can be," Doctor Cooper said, "My field involves the studies of how the brain corresponds to a person's behavior, something Doctor Young was keen on focusing at one point before her involvement with titan and the Joker. With the people I learn from ranging from various people beyond the late Doctor Young, I've come to see people's perspective on things," she then shrugs, "I feel I can agree with what Arkham Knight is trying to do, even Carnage to a point. The order of balance has been off for some time since Joker's death, and Batman's demise who was replaced by one of his proteges. With peace, there must be a tipping point that leads to chaos and vice versa. It is in my opinion the natural order of things, a yin yang if you will, there can't always be peace, and there needs to be some type of chaos to balance it out," Doctor Cooper put her hand up, "Not enticing violence, but I've done a lot of reading on how or what the natural order of thing is. With the likes of powers, magic, gods and demons being around, there can't be good without evil, just as there can't be light without dark."

"Hm, a bit of it seems controversial, don't you think? To believe in these anarchists and that there has to be people like them for the heroes' to fight against?" Vicki said, inputting her perspective.

"It is, but so is most of things along with my work," Doctor Cooper felt herself smirking, very small though compare to Vicki's slight disapproving expression, "It could be from the things I picked up from Mr. Strange, but people don't like change Ms. Vale, and Gotham had been changing in ways people wouldn't recognize in the future."

"You feel that Gotham should remain crime infested then crime ridden?"

"Not really since that part won't truly go away. But when you have places like Otisburg, Burnley, Miagani island entirely being modernized, and then you have certain places; business, houses all together being shut down and kicking out those people for something stupid as an amusement park? Or a plaza? It changes Gotham for the worse than it already is," Vicki can hear a small bit of anger in the doctor's tone, "Even old Gotham is no longer becoming old day by day. Its statues, architecture's, home's, store's, and even the people there are far apart from what that borough once was."

"So you hate change? And therefore, you presume Arkham Knight hates change?" Vicki asked.

Again she shrugs, "I do but it doesn't bother me since I'm like any other person who wants to keep some things the way they are. As some may say about me Ms. Vale, I'm old fashioned, and that means I don't handle change as well as other people. I personally wouldn't know if the Arkham Knight is doing it for that reason since they have some type of hatred for the rich and powerful like Al Ghul and Wayne. Putting away the criminals is one thing, but again, kicking out the poor in the street? Shutting down business for cooperation buildings? Or hurting those who need help instead of bastardizing their brain with blunt force? It only serves to create more people who want to hurt others. At least before, with Gotham being so crime infested, no one hoped for change and just dealt with it. Batman changed that, and for better or worse, it came with a price."

"But there are also places like Feast that can house these people," Vicki argued back, "Wayne is making sure a lot of these people are having proper home's along with a decent neighborhood to live in. Some of the things that are happening are outside of his control, but people like him are trying to at least help where they can. And I know, it leads to some people who are beyond help where violence has to be met with," Vicki eyes squint as she took a little step back from the desk to have her arms crossed, "It's almost like you believe in a similar fashion like Harleen Quinzel believed in, that you can fix these people. Some can, but others not so much."

Doctor Cooper still held her smirk as she scoffed, "Ms. Quinzel already had problems before she worked here. That personality disorder was around even before she met Joker; stemming from childhood trauma involving her father. She might've handled it in her way, but when she met Joker, it brought it out quite easily. Difference between her and me is that I don't get involved with my patients, and continue to provide health and care to people here in Arkham. Doesn't matter if they're insane, super villains, or people who are disjointed by some levels of mental issues, all the same, I'm here to help. Besides, you should also know that not everyone wants to be in a shelter home, and that they want a home for themselves and others they care about."

She did know this and hearing from her side, it sounded like Vicki was almost interviewing someone with that experience, "Sounds like you know a thing or two about that."

The doctor again shrugged, "More or less."

For a few seconds, they're conversation stopped and they stared at each other. The difference in expression totally changed compared to earlier; Vicki was frowning and Carlie had a known smile now apparent. Vicki became more curious of the doctor while Carlie became more intrigued with someone who wanted an insight on their opinions of the villains. But it became more than just villains and they both knew it. A difference in philosophies and principles. One who seeks change and the other who disapproves change, yet seeks to help people's turmoil even so. And all of that was focused on Gotham, the heart and soul of Gotham, "DOCTOR COOPER! I NEED MY FREAKING MEDS! COME ON!" an inmate in the intensive treatment shouted while banging his head on the electric gate he was, shocking his system.

"And so duty calls," Doctor Cooper spoke without leaving her attention of Vicki, "It was quite a fascinating conversation."

"Yeah, maybe we can talk again outside of the Asylum."

Carlie grinned a little more, "Sounds good, but just so you know I'm not into women."

A joke that took away her brief ice queen status made Vicki giggle, "Trust me it's not, just two people becoming friends."

Carlie would jot down her number on a card, quickly giving to her before rushing over to the inmate to handle him. Meanwhile, Vicki looked at the digits, becoming more and more curious about the doctor. Who indeed was this Carlie Cooper? And why did her opinions nag her? Not just that, but the expression she wore as the conversation grew just a bit deeper. Maybe it was Vicki's paranoia, but there was something about her that Vicki would need to look into just a bit more.

---

November 21

Peter breathed heavily when waking straight up from his bed. He quickly took note of the room he was in; a computer with a bunch of books on a desk in front of him, posters of video games characters and band groups, a picture near him when he was younger, a kid wearing glasses being happy with two middle aged people, and also.

A blond girl sleeping near him while he still had on his red and blue costume on. He sighs as he lets his body slump back, 'Just a dream,' he thought as his hands rubbed downward on his face, tired but awake as is, 'One of those nasty dreams again. When will they stop?' He scoffed, 'Whoooooo knows?'

The blond girl near him shuffled beside him, turning to snuggle in him, "...I smell breakfast," she said tiredly.

"I do too," Peter too let himself snuggle.

"God damn it Aunt May…"

"Hey! That's my Aunt you're talking too."

"I know…Sorry," she lifts up her head and kisses him, letting the both couple subject themselves in some light love smacking, "You should…Get dressed… We do got classes today," Peter groaned in between the kisses, not letting Gwen go that only made her giggled because of it, "We're...College students...Not working adults yet Pete...!"

"Ughhh..." The knowledge of being a college student was dreadful on peaceful days like this. He would let his lips go from hers, nuzzling his nose with his. Deep down, Peter wants to stay like this, in bed with her, the smell of his aunt's cooking, the fact that he could miss class just to spend more time with them. With the people that are no longer in his life, "Let's skip. Spend the day together."

"And do what?" she grinned, her eyes kept closed as his was wide open, watching her, smiling at how beautiful she is even with no makeup on.

"Web swing? Go picnicking? I don't know…Anything but college."

"Mmmm…Tempting, but Gotham needs us, or more precisely," her blue eyes open, then suddenly, blood drips from her neck, creaking from the sides where her more important veins were. Her neck began twisting ever so slowly, causing Gwen to choke.

Peter's eyes steadily widened, trying to stop the blood, trying to hold her steadily, trying to hold her neck that was slicking back, practically being snapped in half. His breathing became rapid, his heart beating faster than he could think, and all he was focused on was saving her, "No! Gwen!"

Saving her Gwen, but like before, it proves useless, "Gotham needs you."

Peter buries himself into Gwen, the girl he couldn't save, the girl he wanted to be with, and the girl he loved. He then let out a viscous roar, "NO! I WON'T LEAVE! NOT WHEN I CAN SEE THEM! NOT WHEN I HAVE THE CHANCE TO SEE THEM AGAIN! JUST THIS ONCE..." In his scream, tears stroll down from his eyes, "JUST LEAVE ME ALONE!"

---

"HURRY BARBARA!" Cassandra shouted as she held onto Peter by being on top of him. He was having another seizure, and she was trying to make sure the poor man wouldn't hurt himself in the process by holding him still. This seizure was different from the others he had in the week and a half; this time his eyes widen, brimming with tears, he was conscious as he gripped the stretcher and even crushing it with ease, and was stifling to breath while muttering words that Cassandra can only understand one word out of them he was spewing.

And that was Gwen.

His strength had caused Cassandra to be pushed off, but she immediately recovered with a flip to get right back on him to keep him in place. All Cassandra could do was hold him till Barbara quickly sedated him with the drugs. It hurt Cassandra to see him like this, to see him hurting badly that she couldn't do a thing to stop it. Barbara would be successful in stopping the seizure once more, yet it didn't make it easy to see Gotham's night and day hero like this. Cassandra sat still on top of him, her eyebrow knitted together, her hands gently pressed along both his cheeks as his eyes rolled back before shutting back to sleep.

But in the briefest of moments, his one hand touched hers, grabbed onto it, and while he couldn't say it, Cassandra read what he wanted to say. He was sorry, sorry for putting her through this. Even if whatever he's dealing with in his slumber involves his former love, he still was conscious enough to let Cassandra know that he doesn't mean to cause her the pain she was feeling.

But he was, and it hurt Cassandra that it seemed like he was doing it with some level of consciousness of why he was still in a comatose state. This only serves to have Cassandra feeling a lot, because she was useless in helping his ordeal, being angry in his ordeal, and she wants to do more than sit and watch him like this.

Cassandra held onto his hands even when the grip on his end wasn't there anymore. She wanted to cry, shed tears for her partner, her boyfriend, but she couldn't, and all she could do was hope that he kept fighting to be in better condition. Because like a few days ago, she learned more thanks to Mary Jane that she needs him, and he needs to know that she desperately needs him, 'Need you...Not just partner...Not just lover...Everything...' she brought her nose to his, closing her eyes as her sorrowfulness was on display for Barbara to see, 'I need you Peter.'

She wants to be honest, wants to take that step forward, regardless of how much it scares her, she wants to, because she needs him to know that she loves him. With all her flaws, scars, trauma and all, she loves him and she can't afford to lose him, not when he's been there for. Since the beginning of her journey, to now, and there were indeed moments where he put other responsibilities first because of whatever he was dealing with at the time before the Joker incident a year ago, he still made sure to be there for and her family, "10," Cassandra muttered.

Barbara's ears perk from Cassandra muttering, looking at her and moving her wheelchair closer to her, "What was that Cass?"

She removes herself away from Peter's slumber, letting the one hand that was still holding onto his hands, rubbing the base of it, "10 times…It happen…In 6 days."

Barbara rested a caring hand on her but Cassandra quickly rolled it off, not harsh, but gently as wanting not to be touched at this moment. Cassandra would get off from Peter, her sorrowful expression changed to one to anger, and the only thing Barbara could do was follow her. Cassandra walked to the heavy bag, and let loose a barrage of attacks due to her feeling much better. She punched without any support for her hands, kicking with all the power that echoed throughout the cave, startling the bats above. Cassandra kept going; roaring, groaning, letting out all the frustration of being such a useless person that she can't do anything to help the person she loves. And what's worse was the villain's has the upper hand, they can do whatever they want or please at this time.

It infuriated her for the past week and a half, all she felt was useless and she hated being useless, 'I'M BATWOMEN! THE EMBODI…MENT OF ALL THAT CAME BEFORE ME!' another roar was let loose as her attacks only seem to echo further due to her anger, 'SHOULDN'T BE USELESS AT ALL. DOESN'T MATTER...IF I'M HUMAN. BRUCE PUSH THROUGH IT ALL, AND SO COULD I!' Now she was throwing haymakers, to the point the bag was only making her hands bleed. She ignored the tiredness, the pain, the sadness, and focus on the anger. She had too much to worry about.

Her city.

Her family.

The villains.

Peter.

Everything

All the responsibilities are in the palm of her hands, and yet she can't do anything to keep everything positive and in balance.

Barbara had enough of seeing Cassandra hurt herself just to hurt herself, "Cassandra! Cassandra! CASSANDRA!" Moving close to her, she caught her haymaker by stopping it with her left forearm. Barbara couldn't help but cringe at how hard Cassandra haymaker was, it doesn't help that she herself isn't capable of conditioning her body like her to withstand those types of attacks. But the years of experience was still under her waist and she knew how to stop the motion without causing any further damage, "Punching your way through things won't help you!" Cassandra would then look at Barbara with a mean-streak glare. Barbara didn't back down from her expression, "How many times do I have to tell you that, hm?" her glare ended up soften as Barbara can see she was calming down. So she would let Cassandra drop her hand, "I know we're in a crappy situation, but venting your emotion on the bad won't solve it."

Cassandra breathed in, calming herself before sighing and letting her forehead touch the heavy bag. Barbara would frown at seeing her knuckle's starting to bleed, and so she would wheelchair where the medic side was to grab alcohol and the bandages, 'Seems even now, she still needs me,' the short red hair women said to herself when rolling back to Cassandra to deal with her wounds, "...Can't up...hold...Responsibli..tie. Hate being... useless," Cassandra mentioned.

"Your not being useless, your resting till you can go back out there," Barbara said, consoling her, "Part of being the only Bat means that this is the time where that responsibility will be tested now more than ever," she finish up bandaging her hands, "And part of that responsibility is taking care of yourself first," Cassandra didn't give an answer back to her mentor. She may have a point, but deep down her pride said otherwise when it came to the responsibilities she needs to uphold, "Please, rest while we handle the rest."

"...Should be me..." She pushes herself off the heavy bag, letting her small bangs on her forehead shift to the left side. Thanks to Peter, she didn't need to worry about braiding or fixing up her hair before or after using the Bat suit, "I've become the Bat...So I can prot...ect every...One..Need to be ready...Knight strong, need to be stronger. Carnage strong, need to be smarter.

Barbara wanted to implore more how Cassandra isn't alone in this, but someone's voice spoke up faster than she could, "So then do something about it," Cassandra and Barbara turn to see Talia making her appearance known by the stairs of the Bat cave. She wore something different since now living in the manor; slim brown jacket that hides the green shirt inside her, slim pants that were white along with boots on. Cassandra frown at the fact that they were obviously her own clothes, but stuff that she hasn't for sometime, "Your Batwomen so own it, Bruce is no longer the Bat but you are," she came down the stairs, and walk up to them with an unimpressed expression written on her face, "You don't know what Richard is up to, and Alfred sure has been out a lot with no explanation on his end. So, what do you do when your enemy seems to have a power move over you, you have people telling what to not do, and your own beloved is in a coma?"

Barbara frowns at what Talia is proposing, "Why are you baiting her to go out there? She is still recovering from her battle with the Knight, hell, even from the Carnage fight too! I'm monitoring every inch of the city just in case anyon-"

"And then what?" Talia said cutting her off, "Your only option is for the little Bat to do something about it then is it not? Or do you trust Dick to uphold his end to keep the city safe?"

Barbara scowls at Talia, "Dick will always do what's right and not wrong! Regardless of his recent character change, he will do everything in his power to protect Gotham."

"And it's good to hear your conviction Gordon, but how far will he go to protect Gotham?" Talia asked, "Isn't his character changed...A bit similar to someone we all know?" Barbara and Cassandra went silent, in fact, it hasn't gone notice that there's a repeat factor going on in terms of Dick's action, "Exactly, while he might've not killed like Bruce, I know all of us are noticing he's going down that bridge."

"He won't ever!" Cassandra said, standing up to her family.

Talia didn't flinch from her small shout, "You don't know that, and it's why in this game of chess, you have to rely on what's the best way to gain checkmate. And that's Cassandra who's still standing on her two feet. If you keep cuddling her up Gordon, she remains a little Bat who's as tall as me. Maybe in another life, if your legs were working, then you can go forth where Cassandra could rest."

Part of her love to argue back, but again, Talia had a good point. If her legs were as useful as before, then she could do something other than monitor or use her brains. And deep down, she still wants to be more than Oracle, "Ok," Barbara crossed her arms, "Say if we do so happen to let Cassandra do something, what then?"

"Let her decide what's next," Talia simply said.

Odd as it was, Cassandra doesn't understand why Talia wants her to lead. Was it for agenda purposes? That there was something to gain? She couldn't see any deceit in the way she talks, so why? "Why? You don't like me. Yet you side with me. Why?"

Since she came here, Talia's umber eyes now locked onto Cassandra's basil eyes, "Come on little Bat, Bruce is the only one I like and everyone I tolerate to a degree, you're no different even if you took after him. Although.." she started mauling over something with her hands by her waist, "You did kill my sister which adds to my dislike."

Cassandra eyebrow furrowed at that claim, "Your assassin's did so! I don't kill!"

"And then there was also the time you sided with the league. Forgone your family for us."

Cassandra drew herself closer to Talia, "Only to stop your father. You help!"

"And you did so, without anyone telling you otherwise," Talia's famous smirk came alive, and then it disappeared, "Now choose little Bat, like you've done before when you didn't had the family you have now, and when you saw no other options to stop my father besides working with me when other's didn't trust me. What do you do, when your enemy has a power move on you? How do you continue this game of chess, little Bat?"

Cassandra noted the time on the bat computer; it was past 2 in the morning with everyone likely off the streets at the time. It meant that whatever she wanted to do at this time, it had to be now, "Bait," Cassandra said easily without a second of a thought, "Pawn forward. Knight takes the pawn."

Again, Talia smirked, being satisfied with the answer she gave, "Good."

With the judgment being said and done with, Cassandra wasn't gonna be useless when everyone else beside Peter is being more useful than her, "We move now."

Talia followed Cassandra as she went to grab her bat costume in the chamber. Barbara still wasn't fond of all that is occurring, "Cassandra! The second she's out there, they will strike. And it's as she said, I don't know where Dick is right now to provide backup for you if you become overwhelmed."

"I know," Cassandra responded as she fitted the gauntlets, chest, and boots of her suit on, "Using Bat mobile's cloaking tech."

"Peter hasn't worked on it for months! Who knows if the invisibility cloak would work. It may end up burning the core's engine for all we know!" Barbara proclaims.

With her suit on, and then her helmet sliding itself neatly on her head, she was ready to go back out there regardless of the injuries. She looked down at Barbara, kneeling and placing her hand on her shoulder, "I trust you, trust me," the only answer Barbara could've given was a nod. Cassandra stood back up, turning to Talia gesturing her head to follow her.

Barbara could only watch as Cassandra made her choice to do something instead of nothing. She couldn't fault her, but she was too damn stubborn to at the very least trust her into searching for the Knight or Carnage. Or at least come up with a solution that can take them down all at once as soon as she finds them. She could only let out a sigh and move towards the bat computer as Barbara would help bring up access to the vehicles at her disposal, 'If only if she knew that she isn't the only one feeling useless,' Barbara devalue herself, her rural eyes couldn't help but looked at her legs, the legs that hasn't been of use for years, 'God damn clown...' She said to herself, tightening her fist briefly before going back to the computer and focusing on what's ahead, not what's below her.

Cassandra and Talia were in the Batmobile. Talia had a morbid curiosity of the vehicle itself when introspecting it, "This doesn't seem like Bruce's own Batmobile."

"No," Cassandra said shortly as she was starting up the engine and the cloaking device.

"Hm," She strap herself in the seat, "Your lover's doing?"

"Yes."

"He does have good taste when keeping the slick blackness in place."

For once, Cassandra let herself chuckle lightly around Talia. Because it was true, his costume said it all. She would push a button, cloaking her, Talia, and the bike before she sped off out of the Batcave, launching through the river side.

---

Ever since Dewolff made the decision to have GCPD willingly work with the various vigilante heroes in Gotham, it's been a pain in the ass on her end of the deal. For a half of a week, she was hearing complaints on either end about not wanting to work with them, sharing details, or anything in general with the vigilante's. As of right now, she's dealing with one particular detective who never was a fan of vigilantism getting involved with police business, "This is maddening Commissioner! I don't know why the hell you didn't run this by any of us! I get that what happened at the parade migh-"

"I'm gonna stop you right there Michael," Dewolff said as she talked to an African American man who wore a black and white suit and tie, something a bit too formal for police business.

Which wasn't something Dewolff should complain about if it wasn't for how he acts. Michael easily frowned, "That's commissioner Akin," he put his hands to his waist as their talk was in her office.

Dewolff scoffed and eyeroll, "Coming from a man who used to be into politics, especially being involved with whatever Hamilton was up to when he was mayor. I mean look at you? You still dress as one too."

"Well something's die hard Jean."

"That's commissioner Dewolff to you," she replied a crack back at what he said seconds ago. She leaned by her deck, crossing her arms, "And as for not telling the rest of the officers, you know how they are, how some of them will get, hell, likely trying to vote me out so you can be the one and only Commissioner here. I still find it odd that David elected you as Commissioner as soon as Gordon elected me as one," Dewolff noticed Michael's expression tighten just a bit, a tinge, but enough that she's gonna get something out of this, "If I recall, David didn't approve of some of your choices compare to mines, such as trying to apprehend Batwomen who's nothing like the man who started this."

"You don't know that Jean! For all we know she's probably working with this Arkham Knight character. You can't put your trust in these heroes'!" He argued back with clear, meaningful claims on his end, "Must I remind you what Batman had done after he killed Joker? How he almost cripple the justice league? Killed or done far worse tactic to his rogues? Or the time Spider-Man was wearing all black, being just as brutal as Batman in terms of wiping crime, and had no remorse on who he hurt? Sure, he didn't kill, but he damn well could've!" Michael got closer to Dewolff, allowing her to see more of his eyebrow being furrowed, "These heroes' aren't heroes' anymore Jean! They can't be trusted, in fact, they could never be trusted!"

Dewolff let him say what he had to say, one that spoke volume to a lot of people in GCPD, but also a lot of people in Gotham. Time's have definitely changed in ways where these heroes' have made gratifying mistakes on who they are. But unlike most, Dewolff was one of those people that will hold onto faith in these heroes' instead of losing faith. She gently pushes Michael away from her, giving herself the space she wanted to say at her end, "Maybe in your eyes, maybe in some other people's eyes, but in my eyes? From what I saw from working with the likes of former Detective Stacy and commissioner Gordon? I saw and heard why they put their own faith in these heroes'. Yes, they have flaws, yes, they've done things that are considered unforgivable and should be arrested for, but without them? We would not be standing here having this talk Michael," Michael didn't give a response back, his frown and poker like face is the only answer Dewolff was getting, letting her continue, "So you can have people vote against what I want, hell, you can somehow convince Mayor Hull to take away my status as Commissioner, but if we don't work together with Gotham's heroes', then we'll stand no chance against this new threat. Who, might I remind you, are villains with an army that's scope is beyond what we can comprehend right now."

Common sense had to ring through Dewolff comments. There is no way that the likes of Michael can not agree with that statement due to the fact the GCPD has thousands of experienced cops, but cops who are everyday men and women trying to keep justice prevailing in Gotham. They may have equipment to push back, but not the type of firepower needed to push these threat backs further. With the likes of the Bat family and Spider-Man helping GCPD, it would give them edge they needed to win, "...You have a point of course, no doubt in mind," he again walk up close to her, slowly, diligently, and Dewolff wasn't phase by him entering her space once more, "But take in consideration who we're going up against," he lay out his two fingers in front of her, "Two super villains, who share something similar to the Bat and the Spider. Just imagine if one of them was able to warp the heroes' to their side. Carnage has given his army some boost so just imgaine if he did the same for Spider-Man? And that boost is so very familiar to when the Spider went black. And then you had his partner who could warp people into doing dangerous things," he gestured his hands moving from left to right, "Pivoting Batwomen to finally be like her mentor."

It was a thought Dewolff knew was there. She left out the info of the fixation of Carnage wanted to have Spider-Man work with him. But the fact that Michael put two to two together, meant that others were thinking the same way. It was written on the wall how easily these heroes' can fall into a dark abyss, and lose themselves just as Batman had done. But again, Dewolff had hope and faith above all else, "I won't object to those theories, but I stand firm on my belief. They won't fail, not if we have their backs just as they have ours."

The two Commissioner's looked into one another's hazel nut eyes. Their philosophies, perspectives, and history clashing against one another that is hard to be on the same page. But they can at least understand where they're coming from, even if they disapprove of them entirely. Soon as their conversation came to a close, a fat man with a cigar hanging from his lip came barging into Dewolff office, "You can't expect me or any of us to fix that god damn light on the roof of the GCPD! It's been blown to pieces thanks to the Bat!"

Michael turned to see the fat man who wore a gray top hat and a gray suit and tie. A sort of clothing line that was out of style for today's cop taste, "Detective Bullocks what have I told you about smoking?"

"Do you see the stick lighting up?" He asked while pointing at the cigar in his hand, "And I remember telling you something of the lines of go shove a stick in yo-"

"Commissioner Akin, please give me the room with Detective Bullock?" Dewolff more so demanded than asked. His answer was a simple scoff, and moved out of her office. Soon as the door was open, the officers could hear and see the non-stop 24/7 ruckus going on in GCPD. Large number of cops handling crooks, answering 911's, or keeping busy communicating strategies to persevering whatever peace that's in Gotham. As soon as the door was closed, now there was silence in the room. However, Dewolff and Bullock can see Michael still hold his gaze on the door, even keeping his gaze when leaving the area.

"Guy is some piece of work I tell you," Bullock took out a lighter so he can smoke the cigar, "Became a cop, dip for politics when Mayor Hill was running the joint years back, and when that didn't pan out, came back and somehow is able to be Commissioner rather easily a year ago," Dewolff listen to what he was saying as he open up the window to let the smoke of cigar not stay in his office, "Guy is fishy as shit Dewolff and we need to do some digging on him."

"Not when we have a city to worry about Bullock," she responded, letting out a soft sigh. Dewolff found comfort at least one other person was very wary of Michael and his perspective of the situation they're dealing with, "And I told you before I don't wanna fucking hear you can't fix it. Either do it or get bench cause we need that light working," Dewolff turned to Bullock whose mouth was already ready to spew something else, "And I don't wanna hear some excuses right now! I need results!"

"You don't even know what I'm gonna say!" Dewolff answer with a groan as she kept her eyes on the city in front of her for the time being, "Hey look, I know your getting fucked on every end because of that statement you made, and I know you believe that I, or any other old cop like me can't see you replacing Jim. And hey," he flick out a lighter, smoking the tabaco, and inhaling it in before blowing it off through the window, "I'll admit that I rather prefer if he stayed with us if he didn't went blind after the Joker shit about a year ago," he took the cigar from his mouth, "But you doing the best you can as is. I'm not fond of working with them, never have been, but I warmed up to them when I saw the impact they all had on Gotham. People here are just too stubborn to accept the kind of help we're getting, and I can't fault them cause I used to be the same."

Bullock's own opinion has been said time and time again for the years Dewolff has been with GCPD, 'I know that for a fact Bullock,' she said to herself, 'Starting from the early age of a hardworking rookie at 21, all the way to being commissioner at 36. I know how much Bullocks detest vigilante's of Gotham that he even approves of what Jameson says about them from time to time. He to some extent, like Jameson, and other people in Gotham, believes Gotham should be saved by the ordinary people who don't have any special abilities or high wiz tech to help them, but their own wits and bones to do the job. Yet after all the years of being a cop in Gotham, with his own age showing from the wrinkles and gray facial hair. Harvey understands that you have to fight fire with fire.'

And again, Dewolff finds comfort in Bullock". She's not alone, not by a long shot, and she has a veteran to back her up no matter what comes next, "Thanks…I actually needed to hear that from an experienced cop for once. Honestly, I feel like at every turn I'm making a huge mistake when people disagree with my decision making."

Bullock grinned, "That's the role Jim gave to you, and you're doing alright, for a woman that is."

Dewolff eyebrow screwed, but added a small smile to her lip, "Ok fuck you." They share a light chuckle before Dewolff begins receiving a call from someone, not other than Gordon, "Gotta take this, fix that god damn light you hear?"

"I ain't doing it!" Bullock made his leave from her office, "HEY YO SOMEONE FIX THAT BAT SIGNAL FOR FUCK SAKES!"

Dewolff closed her office door behind her while answering her phone, "Hell of a time to call Commissioner Gordan."

"Well I've been busy on my end. And that's your status remember."

Her eyebrow raised at the kind of sly response, "Old habits you know? How's the beach in Hawaii?"

He heard his small crackle behind the phone, and it didn't dissuade her smile since it was always nice to talk to the former commissioner at the GCPD, "Well I can't see it, but It feels very nice over here I can't lie. Sometimes my body feels just a bit angsty, hoping and being paranoid that something will happen. It seems that's been the case in Gotham. How are you holding up after the Carnage massacre? From what I heard because that's all I can do nowadays, it was pretty rough...More than rough actually."

Dewolff sighed, walking over her chair where she sat, turning her chair to stare at the late night skies. In her eyes, they betray all that is going on in the city, even if it's been quite as of late, "Good as I can, but really, terrible. I mean… I've seen some shit Jim for the past 15 years of being a cop but what I saw? Seeing everyone, and I mean everyone, fighting it out by some metahuman that can control what seems like our deepest, darkest thoughts and passion? I…I never saw anything like that…Kids Jim, even kids were in harm's way…Not even Spider-Man could save them all."

"Which also means you had another panic attack?"

"Yeah… I did…" from her green jacket pocket, she took out a case that was supposed to have cigarettes but had none, "Damn…Should've asked Harvey for a smoke."

"A small taste of rum would do the trick."

"Not my style Jim," her hands rub the bridge of her nose, exhausted from all that she's been dealing with, "I thought I got over my panic attacks but they're still there Jim… Almost like nothing changed from the rookie I was."

"But you learn to control it right? Breathing technique and all?"

She scoffed, "More like a certain reporter had to bitch slap me."

"Ha! But you got it under control! You're in control and only you can stay like that. Your strong Dewolff, George always saw it in you just as any other experienced cop has."

"Still, it would be just a bit easier if you were here to guide me to do what's right."

"None of us knows what's right and wrong an-"

"And we have to just follow what our gut says, what our minds know what to do, and what our heart has to follow through it… I really miss George."

"I do too. Not a day goes by if I was a second faster, I probably could've saved him. Hell, I know Spider-Man beats himself up for that a lot. He and George were very close to one another, and I feel his death only pushed him to work harder into not letting anyone else die like he did."

"Didn't help that he also lost her daughter not too long after his passing," she again sighs with the topic of the spider being at hand, "He's been dealing with a lot and he's out of it right now due to the Carnage massacre."

"How was he though? Before being out of commission?"

Dewolff let out an air as she went back to recall how Spider-Man was whenever they interacted in recent times, "...Guy still holds a lot in him, still wisecracks sure. But I worry how much he can keep taking sometimes. I have faith in him, Jim, but I won't deny, especially after talking to Michael, that there's a part of me that can see him finally crack."

"Just like him..."

"Yeah...I think him being around Batwomen, and now it seems Nightwing is back, has been helping him."

"And what about her? Batwomen?"

She scoffed, "You know she's hard to read with how little she talks right?" Gordon simply chuckles over the phone. Dewolff bit her thumb, thinking about how Batwomen was with all that's been happening, "...She's still there, devoted to her job. I think the fact that she hasn't been able to bring back what the Bat symbol means to the people of Gotham still bothers her. And she's hard on herself, too hard on herself in wanting to shoulder the responsibilities for herself. She may say one thing about working together and such, but deep down, it's a gut feeling that sh-"

"Just like Batman?"

"Yeah."

"...Well, she has the Spider."

"And he has her. Guess I have to keep having faith they'll get through whatever they're dealing with."

"Stakes are getting high Dewolff. Match them."

"Trying, but it isn't easy."

"You'll find a way, I know you will. It's why I place you as commissioner above anyone else. Screw however way Michael is trying to take the reign, it's your ship, not his."

"...Damn straight."

A notification wrong on her phone that got Dewolff attention.

Unknown: Archie Goodwin International Airport. Bait. Talia. Need GCPD forces. Here's a tracker. Don't know if the Knight of the sun will intercept. Be prepared for anything.

"Duty calls Jim, but thanks for the check up."

"Any time Jean."

Her mind was set straight, with the help of the present and past.

---

Bludhaven

Nightwing perch on top of the bridge that led into the city he used to protect. He made sure to put a block on his locator so that way at least, Barbara wouldn't know where he is. For what seemed like the longest time, Dick stared blankly at the city, 'Becoming Nightwing meant I needed to find my own place beyond Bruce's shadow. Being with the Titans and being in this city was it,' for Dick, It was hard knowing that he couldn't fall back on Bruce's money for any type of help in terms of being a person who wants to do what's right because it was right, 'If I wasn't with the Titans it meant that I had to salvage whatever tools and medical equipment to keep myself going when protecting Bludhaven. Like Bruce, I wasn't fond of asking for help, and I wanted to find my way to deal with my own problems instead of always relying on the titans,' Dick continued to say to himself.

Dick felt his lip curve when remembering those times with his friends, 'Being Nightwing allowed me to reform the Teen Titans into just Titans. It allowed new and old friends to come together to stop those who do harm. And it very much became an asset for Peter to help be comfortable with the idea of fighting with others instead of by himself. I know for one, he felt he was part of something bigger than just being a hero to Gotham. And it's why years later he went to other teams like the Justice League...' Dick then found himself frowning on the past, the glory days before Joker destroyed him physically and mentality, 'I miss those days, where I hadn't reached my prime and nothing seemed unattainable so long as I can achieve it.'

But then the more hardships of his time as Nightwing came through, only making him further frown. The many battles he fought with the Titans, Bat family, and the many battles he fought for this city weren't always easy, 'Because of me being who I am, I made my own enemies. Even those who decided to cause a chemical explosion about 4 years ago because I intercepted whatever they had planned. Right now, Bludhaven is looking a little better, but I can see the scars that are still on display from up here,' Dick took note of the walls the city had that covered multiple bridges and angles that led to the exit or entrance was still around. If Dick tried to fly in, it meant the likes of helicopters and armed military presence would be on his tail, 'Bludhaven is suffering the no man's land syndrome that Gotham dealt with 6 years ago. But, unlike Gotham, they did this due to the pollution going on. As of now, its been cut down, but people are still suffering from the affects, and in turn, the city close of sections that are still affected with pollution,' Dick then scowl, 'Meaning some people are still dealing with the effects...And it's not a damn thing I can do, and I had hope someone who try doing something...' his scowl was then let go, 'But for better or worse, these people aren't forgotten when industries like star labs are helping the best way they can to eliminate the problem. They're able to cure most and give a special type of mask to avoid getting sick by the pollution.'

So busy thinking about how much Bludhaven has changed without him overseeing, Dick would then cringe in pain, feeling his body, his head, and every muscle ache in pain. He ignored it like always when the pain in his body flared up, when the tingling that poke and prod at each fiber of his bones, or the constant migraine that came slap dead in his temple. He hated feeling this, hated feeling off balance that it caused him to sit on the edge of the bridge. He hated feeling helpless that he can't numb the pain without an extra help that needed resupplying.

It was then a faint ultraviolet color became clear that reflected his shadow more, Dick turned his head to see it was someone who looked to be similar to his girlfriend Koriand'r. Only that the clothing she wore was complete black and white armor, wearing an M like silver crown that adjusted her long, straight reddish-black hair. Like all of her race, the Tamaranean, her clothing didn't hide much of her orange skin, but enough to accept earth costumes such as covering up her breast and lower region, "Took you.." Dick groaned when standing on his two feet, it was a struggle since his legs were shaking, but years of enduring so much pain only helped push through the pain. Mind over matter in a sense, "Long enough.."

"You joke, yet you're in pain Grayson," she floated down near him, her ultraviolet aura diminished as she took the bag off her back to reveal a green serum with a device to inject Dick with, "Neck."

"Does it hav-" she didn't let him talk his way out. She instantly grabbed his neck as lightly as she could, and injected the green liquid by his neck, "AGH!" Dick moans in pain, hunchback as the serum does its job to rectify all that he's feeling. His breathing picked up, heart racing, the drug going into his system, his hand clutch, enough for even the fabric of the suit to see the veins of his muscle, bulking up in fact. If he wasn't wearing his domino mask, the Tamaranean woman would've seen his eyes light up green as well. But this was a brief sequence due to the exposure of the drug. All the features he went through subsided, just like the pain that was registering throughout Dick's body. He would take a few deep breaths in his nose before standing up straight without worrying about the pain, "Thanks Komand'r."

She gives him the bag, to where he can see a bunch of pills and a few serum for his needs, "You know this isn't a permanent fix."

Dick closes the bag and slings it behind him, "Of course, when I'm done with Gotham I'll figure out a better solution."

Her vagarious green glared at his easy way out answer, "Don't lie to me Grayson, not when you want to marry my sister," Her slight anger was able to evoke her ultraviolet aura again, only by the hair, "She doesn't even know, and it'll only worsen your chances of wanting to have her for the rest of your humane life."

"I'll tell her!" He then looked away, eyebrows knitting together at having to deal with this conversation, "...Eventually."

She scoffed, "Can't even be honest to her to this day…" She almost muttered under her breath, "I don't understand why she keeps going back to you when there are far more better Tamaraneans, hell, there are better human's suited for her than you!"

"What do you want me to do?! I need this! The only way I'm gonna help my family is with these!" Dick said, gesturing behind his back, "I can't, I won't be useless!"

Komand'r could only shake her head of how unaware of Dick was quite literally saying he's an addict for the drugs, "You should know better that the drug, what you humans called venom? Will only make you weaker up here," she taps the side of her head, "And you notice the changes haven't you?" Dick who's silent said it all for her, "I could only dampen the elements, the compound to minimize some of its effects, but the more you take Grayson, the more it's gonna impact you negatively, to the point you may not even know who you are."

"I KNOW DAMN IT!" He shouted in her face, "I KNOW OF THE CONSEQUENCES, BUT I WON'T BE USELESS, I WON'T BE WEAK, I DON'T EVER WANT TO BE WHAT I WAS A YEAR AGO."

Komand'r understood where he came from, but she didn't give him the pleasure of sympathy, "Which is why I'm still helping you out. It'll hurt my sister more, but I've hurt her enough as is, and I accept whatever come's my way. While the secret will hurt her, it wouldn't compare to how much pain I caused her when we were younger," this is when her glare was let go, soften, but she still look stern in her own presence, "..You on the other hand, will only serve to crush her again, and again, just like every time you two have gotten back together, to only break up again. How much pain does my poor sister have to endure, for your selfishness Grayson?"

Dick didn't answer her question, couldn't answer because in the end he really was selfish. If he could've, he would stay in her home planet, continue his therapy and not take the easy way out. He could've, should've, but there was a greater reason why he didn't do it, and didn't take the hard route for a more successful recovery.

He couldn't stand to be pitied.

He couldn't stand to hear about his small accomplishments.

He couldn't stand to hear her telling him that she'll still love him no matter what else happens.

Dick couldn't stand the thought of being useless to Koriand'r, and vice versa, he couldn't stand aside from knowing that he so badly wants to be this Nightwing, and helping others once more instead of looking afar while others do the work. He hated that feeling, and he never wants to experience it, "Then she won't know. On my end at least."

"It's not my part to tell her, only you."

"Then again, she won't know. If I can at least keep her happy as is, then it's fine by me," Dick activated his jet wings, "By the way, you should tell Peter hi."

"And why would I do that?" Her glare was reinforced when that man was brought up.

"Since you're all about reconciling your old ways, maybe you should patch up your relationship with him. It would give you two some much needed closure," Dick then proceeded to fly off, leaving Komand'r to watch him go back to Gotham.

It did leave her to wonder in her own thoughts briefly, 'That bug man… No.. I won't see him, he doesn't need to deal with me,' leaving that thought behind, she would fly off in her own direction, in a trail of her ultraviolet aura.

---

Gotham

Underneath the Gotham river lies a small but efficient submarine moving close to a bridge. Inside it was the Arkham Knight, arms behind they're back, shield and sword at the ready with a few guns if need be used, "Talia has been relocated, heading to the Archie Goodwin airport as we speak," said one of the members of the knights of the sun when mobilizing the submarine.

"No way you're dumb enough to escape Al Ghul," The Knight mutters to themselves, "Bait for the Bat to fight? Heh…Bold move. Everyone at the ready?"

"Yes!"

"We're ready Arkham Knight!"

A small snicker occurred at hearing the army at the ready. Like their last mission that wasn't so successful, the Arkham Knight made sure to pack a small efficient team when converging towards their target, Talia Al Ghul. They would tap the side of their helmet, opening com's to someone on the other line, "She's gonna reach Trigate bridge, how fast can you get there?"

"With your vehiclez, I should get there before shz doez,"a man with a thick russian accent said over com's to the Knight, "Youth are aware thatz she'z bait."

"I do know this, but we also need to show how ruthless we are while exposing more of the Bat family and their weakness for each other and this city. The more we push, the more likely all of them will show up, and with all of them showing up, they'll start spreading themselves thin for the city, and that's when the real fun begins once Talia is in our grasp. Plus, we got eyes on Batwomen, and she's far away from Talia."

"And what about thiz Carnage foe? Are you to ally withe him and hiz own army?"

The Arkham Knight that was an intriguing option; one chaotic chaos along with sophisticated types of chaos coming together? Can be interesting to see and do, but also can lead to an array of problems. Such as their perspective and objective not aligning with one another. But they'll keep that in the back of their head when the time has come, till then, the Knight will work with what they have, "It's an option if we need too. Now, let's begin our movement."

---

Talia made sure to play her part of the plan. Acting like she was trying to get out of Gotham as she had packed her bags to head back to her home in Nanda Parbat in the mountain sides of Hindu Kush, 'In my absence, the Knight was able to dispatch my bodyguard's and there's no means to contact the rest of my league. Not without alerting whoever this mole could be in my league,' Talia coordinated to herself, 'I can't trust the league, and that means I can only go to one other person I can trust to help me.'

With her league dead, she had to resort to normal means in terms of transportation. Basically, order an Uber like a normal modern citizen would.

Talia had to admire the upgrade in technology as the years went by, but it only seems to make people just a bit lazy because of it, 'I remember a particular movie that displayed what technology has done to a portion of society. What was it again...? I know it was a Disney movie about a robot trash, doing some type of garbage that eventually has him explore other areas with another robot, which allows them to develop feelings. Along the way, people were so hell bent on using technology to take care of them that they couldn't see how corrupt they were to them till the end. A good Disney movie I might add, and it's reflective of the real world. It's no wonder why my father was trying to destroy a lot of what the modern times has brought to society, and to let the world go back to old, simpler, and harsh times. He truly believed the strong only survives while the weak dies off,' thinking about her father's philosophy didn't please her at this time. She knows at heart that there's truth and meaning behind it, but not if it meant killing millions.

Talia personally believes there's a different way to display the strong thriving while the weak falls then to murder and start anew. She'll find a way before her time is up. She always does.

In the car, she was reaching the airport, going through the Trigate bridge that was not only a bridge for North Gotham that leads the Gotham county outside of the city, but it passes over Arkham Asylum and can also lead into Miagani island if need be. Talia was lucky enough to buy a condo in North Gotham so she could make it look like she was trying to get away from the city.

An added bag with an added coat to her liking just so she can sell her role properly if the Knight actually does have eyes on her, 'Cassandra had in mind that would involve as few casualties as possible during the fight. But she isn't fools to think that's possible and she knows it,' Talia took note of the driver stopping during traffic coming about on the bridge, 'And now there's traffic. Plan's never go as they seem, and I'm to assume Cassandra planned ahead just as I have. Using the cloak to drop me off, and distance herself was a good move, but let's see what happens next..'

Ironic enough, Talia's phone rang in her hand, reading beloved and she answer to hear what Bruce had to say, "Beloveddd~ How nice of yo-"

"You think this is a game?" Talia smirk was held in place, especially when she heard that tone of voice of his. Serious, straightforward, it had brought back fond memories of the conversation she had with Bruce when he was Batman, "Taunting Cassandra like this and making bad calls all for what? Because you despise her?"

"Despise?" She snorted, "Please, you've done a terrible job at grooming her to replace you." as Talia talked to Bruce, she kept her eyes and ear open for anything and anyone that can gun after her when on the bridge. The bridge didn't hold as many cars compared to the morning, but she never knew where and how the Knight and her army would strike, "She knows why she does this, but there's no push for her to do what's necessary regardless of her condition. Beyond her beloved, which I also feel's he's doing a terrible job when it comes to being her partner, she's not being the leader she is supposed to be, she isn't doing enough as she should."

"There's a time and place for that. We need to be smart, move when appropriate. You being out in the open only paints not only you, but Cassandra as a clear, easy target."

"And that's the point, a bold move to take down the king. Something she knew what needed to be done"

"And what about the knights? The rooks? The bishops? Or even a queen? The queen, if out in the open, can strike anywhere at any given time, Talia."

"Then we know who else we're facing."

"Talia, this isn't a game to be having right now! Cassandra's life's on the line and so is yours! Who's to say Carnage and his partner won't look to strike just to try to lure Peter?! You can't have Cassandra being a leader by having her make decisions like this!"

Talia didn't flinch at how loud his voice got, it seems that he's been frustrated with everything going on. And she can probably guess that he feel's useless while he watches his family partake in a brewing war he should be a part of, "It's better now than later. She knows of the conseque-"

That's when Talia saw a rocket launcher coming her way behind the vehicle she was in. Her eyes quickly widened as she could only duck under the seat because the rocket was not only coming fast, but it was shifting its direction to not hit the back. The driver had no time to react to it or even shout something, as it ended up hitting the right side in between the vehicle and another.

Talia couldn't see where it hit, but she felt it when the explosion sent her car flying. The car was hurled over the other side of the lane, hitting the middle of a truck trailer. The truck had a hard time stabilizing the trailer, as it ended up swiveling and breaking apart the bridge's railing. The driver's only way of saving himself from falling into the Gotham river was by detaching the trailer in the process.

Yet other vehicles were caught in the crossfire; crashing into one another, being sent off the bridge, causing traffic, it was becoming hell on earth on the Trigate bridge. Both people dying and getting hurt all the same with no hero to save them. Meanwhile, Talia's vehicle was sent rag-dolling; the head of the vehicle impacting each and every time that the driver was already dead from the impact. Talia held on to the car's grab handle for dear life, and with timing and because the wind shield was broken, she let herself drop from the vehicle once it hit another vehicle back side shifting its rotation in the air once more.

She rolled rugged on the pavement. She felt cuts, bruises, and her landing caused a snap at both of Talia's hands. The adrenaline being pumped in her made it hard for her to tell, and she was busy trying to shake off the dizziness. She tried standing, but again her head was still recovering from the whiplash, explosion itself, the landing she suffered from, and her legs not being able to move the way she wanted to.

Fire bloomed behind her, fire bloomed from across the bridge, cars in front of her were on top of one another, colliding with each other, and sent some more off the bridge. The other side of the bridge was also not looking as good, less chaotic, but all the more destructive with on going collisions from multiple cars. But as Talia at the very least sat up, groaning in pain, this is when she noticed what happened to her hands and legs; her hands were fractured that it wasn't straight as it should be, and her feet were just the same as her hands.

Luckily, all she needed to do was put it back in place giving the time.

Yet, she wouldn't get the chance. Appearing out of thin air, Talia saw the Arkham Knight and their army, steadily walking to her amongst the chaos with some coming up through the river side that was open from the trailer destruction, or some coming through the destruction they caused. The Arkham Knight drew close to Talia, crouching to her, and tilting their heads when watching the demon head had no power to use to her advantage, "Hello again, Talia. Seems like you're having car trouble."

---

"TALIA! TALIA!" Bruce shouted in his office at Wayne tower. With no answer he quickly taps the ear piercing in his ears, gaining access to the Batcave comm's, "Oracle! Something's wrong on Talia's end."

"I know! Batwomen are heading there as we speak, she's not far off from there."

"What about Nightwing? Where's he?"

"Off radar, don't know what he's doing, but we can't rely on him. Cassandra already thought ahead and had GCPD lock on Talia's location, they're already heading over there to assist Cassandra. However, Cassandra has to circle back to Trigate bridge due to trying to make it seem like she wasn't tailing Talia."

Bruce couldn't help but silently curse himself with everything going on. His fist clutches tightly as he watches over the city, his city, that he so rightfully wants to protect. But if he does so, then there won't be no going back, if he does put on the mask it means ruining any possible chance of recovering, 'If I become Batman again, then my family won't ever trust me again,' he look down at his tighten fist, before bringing it forth to the mirror in front of him, slamming his hands into it. It didn't break due to it being reinforced to withstand high tier damage, and instead, it only bruised Bruce's knuckle. He cringed at the pain settling in, but ignored it, 'DAMN IT ALL! I JUST WANT TO PROTECT THEM!'

Bruce quickly went to calm himself, breathing through his nose before letting his hands go from the mirror. He can see his reflection, the man he is, and the man he's trying to be, 'The terrifying part is that I'm not sure I could ever be Bruce Wayne again...That the men I locked up for a whole year wants to be release, and kill those who want to bring chaos to this city and my family,' Bruce again breath, '...I just have to have faith in my family, and to her.'

All Bruce can do is keep his faith in Cassandra, that she'll be a better Bat then he ever was.

---

The Arkham Knight clutched Talia by her neck, showcasing the mere strength by lifting her from the ground. The fire caused by multiple cars, the panic from the many civilians that were on the bridge, only seem to resonate more with the snickering coming from the Knight. They don't care about who they endanger, only that their a means to an end.

Pushing their goal forward, nothing more and nothing less, "So what was the plan? That you could escape? That the Bat could flush us out? Take me away to the loony bin or the gates of hell?" Their snicker grew, but was quickly stopped by ongoing screams coming from the civilians that tried to escape the bridge, "Knights! Either kill them or round them up. It's surprising that the GCPD was coming so soon," they edge closer to the frowning face of Talia, "Bat was smart to get more people on her side since her Spider isn't around at the moment."

The Knights of the sun did what they were told; some murder civilians on the bridge, while others grabbed hold of them on both lanes and held them as hostages since the GCPD was gonna intersect from both points of the bridge.

---

Dewolff and her officers had just closed off the bridge and saved whatever civilians they could. But the situation was quickly getting worse. Each and every cop knew of the circumstance but were held back, and even hid behind the covers of vehicles just in case a fire fight goes down. Bullock and a swat officer would virtually use both goggles and a sniper rifle to get a good view on what's happening further down the Trigate bridge, "They're not only holding hostages but they also got someone on the high top of the bridge with a bird eyes view on us." Bullock told Dewolff.

"Could we take a shot at this person Yuri?" Dewolff asked one of the swat members who had eyes not only the Knight but also the person on the top of the Trigate bridge.

Yuri got a good look at this guy; a man with a white mask that disclosed his identity, but he did wear a similar armor set like the Knight of the sun just without the added Bat-like cowl. An odd thing was the belt that lit up in a green hue, like it powered him up or something. She couldn't see his face at all, though she knew the body type was indeed a man. And he was not really eyeballing her, but eyeballing Bullock. Quickly as she could, she ran, dropping her gun and tackled him, "HOLY!"

Yuri caught the bullet on her shoulder pad, but was able to save Bullock as she helped him up and made sure they were both behind multiple GCPD vehicles, "Negative commissioner," her shoulder was all the more find thanks the padding, "If he wanted to, he would have shot me when he had the chance."

"And he has an actual sniper! Not just a freakin rocket launcher!" Bullock threw his hands in the air while on the ground, "Where the hell is the Bat? Or her partner, the Spider?"

"Spider-Man is most likely still recovering from the Carnage massacre, and Batwomen is coming soon. Nightwing should at least have been here but I didn't get nothing from him," she went to call the Batwomen the second she saw the scale tip for the Knight group, "Hey, we're gonna need an ace in the hole here if we want to push on them. Sniper on top, and the Knight looks like is about ready to ditch the bridge along with Talia, and kill off hostages."

"Heard! Coming from north of Sommerset!"

"You're in the countryside, how fast can you get here?!"

"Finding out."

That's when they heard a gunshot that made every officer flinch and jumpy. Dewolff quickly checked to see if everyone was alright, "Was that from the Knight?! That shot didn't come from that direction."

Bullock, with the goggles around his neck, took a peak very quickly to see what's going on, and he had a surprised look on his face, "No, someone shot at them!" Another gun shot rang out, with Bullock docking but having the balls to peak again, he didn't see anyone else got shot seeing as the Knight and their army took cover. The sniper on top however was no longer active, "Whoever is gunning them from afar, I think they gave us an opening we need to move forward."

"Yuri, gonna need another drone out."

Dewolff's radio that was latched on her pants ended up making some static noise till someone cleared their throat, "Testing! Testing! Tes- Yeah you guys can hear me so uh, GET THE FUCK A MOVE ON!"

Bullock scoffed, recognizing the voice who took over the radio, "This is the only time I'm glad that punk is back in Gotham."

"LET'S MOVE PEOPLE!" Dewolff shouted to the rest of the officer's, "Commissioner Akin! We're clear to nab them now!" She said on her radio as she and the rest of her officers used their vehicles to push forward.

"Copy that!"

---

Everything went out of place so fast for the Arkham Knight. They had a hold on Talia, they made sure cop's couldn't do anything to move on them without anymore hostages getting their heads blown off, and likely, Batwomen would've made things worse if she showed up. She would not only have them, but also the army that had every advantage point to win.

But of course, they knew it wouldn't be an exact victory, as they were banking on someone coming to their rescue. Case in point, some of her army laid dead beside them, others took cover, letting hostages run free seeing as whatever they made would give the sniper an opening. The Knight themselves was breathing rather heavily. It was mostly because once they had a fine helmet being clean, posed, dominance, chaos, and fear, the reverse of Batwoman.

But now there was a crack surface on their forehead where a bullet was lodged into it. A bullet that demonstrated just how careless they were from not knowing this could've happened, but they couldn't let Talia escape, not back to her home where it would be harder to capture her. They took it out, eyeing the long bullet in their hands, "...300 Winchester Magnum. Huh…So now the gunsmith of the Bat family shows his face?" The Knight heard Talia laughing as she was snapping her one hand back into place, causing a groan before she fixed the other, "You laugh, but I expected this."

"True… But you can't do anything to make a move on me," Talia said with confidence as she sat cross legged, now snapping her ankles back to where it was supposed to be, "Police…Grr! Are coming…And..Gah…You hear that familiar engine roaring behind me?" The Knight didn't just hear it, they could see it from afar. Batwomen was coming, behind her was another crew of GCPD officer, "In a way, you risk taking me with you, dealing with my mercenary while also dealing with multiple GCPD, and the Bat," she smirk, more devilishly knowing the game of chess was hers today. The queen had been taken, and the king was in a position to lose, "Or you can escape, lick your wounds, and maybe fight another day."

The Knight knew what choice to have, and better than to lose more members, they needed to escape right here and right now, "Everyone! If you can move, excavate the bridge so we can regroup… This isn't over Al Ghul," The Knight and their army took out smoke bombs, creating a cloud of it so that it could make their escape.

"Of course, it isn't."

---

From a light tower that had its own bridge hailing from the Asylum, it overlooked the west side of Gotham river and was tall enough to get an angle and a proper view of the Trigate bridge. Usually the Asylum guards would be staying on point around this time of the night, but they were knocked out by a man who was almost as tall as Bruce. He wore a prominent red mask that visor was open up for him to drink a tray of alcohol, a white vest that has a hood over his red mask, silver and gray armor both on body, arms with its own gauntlet, and legs with the added support of footwear bridging between gray and red. He also had a red Bat symbol on the center of his chest, two small knives holsters on his side, two swords stashed behind him, along with other holsters on his waist for grenades, smokes, throwable weapons, even two dual wield pistols for added measure.

As he drank his alcohol, he kept his aim on the bridge, letting both hands focus, seeing as he felt the alcohol kicking in his system, "Come on little piggy's…I wonder if you're feeling lucky to come out of this alive?"

The so called gunsmith of the Bat family began firing, catching some with easy headshots. He then focuses on the one top of the bridge, but the sniper was brave enough to dive into the water from a tall height. Yet, the gunsmith at least caught him by the legs and his shoulders, but all the more live to see another day. He groaned at the target being alive, but recognizing who he was, "God damn it Parker… Now the Bat got to worry about another one of your villains," he went back to focusing on the Knight, they and their army were now deep in the ocean, "Oh ho…Where do you think you're going, faker?" He changed the scope, allowing him to not only zoom in through the Gotham river, but also allowed him to see where the Knight and their army was going. Finding out that they had a submarine, not huge, but good enough to hold a dozen or so people, "Bingo," with a push of the button on his sniper, an added laser sight occurred, and the bullet in the chamber changed just a bit.

He fired a bullet at the submarine, its speed hit the submarine, and stuck itself on it. The man with the red mask took another sip of his alcohol, but pressing a few buttons on his helmet where behind it, he can see exactly where the knight would be going, "All high tech and you wouldn't even notice something low tech," he chuckle to himself, he then got a glimpse of the Trigate bridge, he did frown at the innocents that were killed, the cops that tried to handle the situation best they could.

Hell, he can see big Bullock not liking it just as much as Dewolff.

Then there was the Bat, talking with them, but also looking around before she looked directly at him. Just from the arm cross and head tilt alone, she wasn't surprised to see him, "Bitch must've mentioned I was showing up," however when it came out, he couldn't help but smirk and wave. She didn't respond, instead looking like she said something to the police before getting Talia with her, putting her behind the Batmobile, but all the more focus on helping where she can on the bridge for the time being, "Huh, wonder where her boyfriend is? He should've been here...Unless guy got clocked…Fuck Parker, when will you stop getting your ass kicked?" he added a chuckle in his question.

In hindsight, Jason wished he didn't come back to this city, but he was obligated to by money and the women who he just save, "FUCK IM OUT!" He shouted when finding out he had drunk all of his liquor.

Chapter 14: Chosen

In a place no one could find them, or more so, no one would think they could find them, the Arkham Knight sat in their station. The shadow was obscuring them, not their body, but mostly their head. However, the sparks that were coming from their direction signified that they had a welding helmet to protect their eyes with the torch they were using. Along with the torch, the dramatic blinking red light coming from a mainframe device, mixed in with the blue and green coming from the computer systems at their disposals was the only other source of light they had. It was all enough to see that the Knight was fixing the helmet that took a bullet from the gunsmith of the Bat family.

They were delicate with their helmet, gazing upon it, lifting it in the air to fix what was broken. The torch was able to melt the particular metal that keeps their helmet strong, but there was also the wiring inside they had to touch up since their helmet helps disguise their voice, "Knew someone was gonna come save the demon head. Should've known it would be her little toy red hood," the Arkham knight said out loud to themselves. Their own voice wasn't disguised and it's described as being both soft but somehow deep in tone, "Should've expected him, but I was clumsy when I had my eye on the prize. I know the Knights of the sun has eyes and ears everywhere...Which meant he must've blended in the crowds easily. But how is the question?"

Or if it wasn't that, the Knight presumed he also stuck to area's where their cameras couldn't reach, which was only ever the oceans or some of the sewers systems in Gotham.

If they were fueled by the type of anger he's known for, the desk would've been impacted by their suit metallic hands for not being able to capture Talia again. But the Knight is not angry, no, they're excited by the prospect of going up against the entirety of the Bat family. With Carnage and his forces coming alive just as their army was too, it only meant one thing.

War, war was protruding to the surface of Gotham. Chaos was coming in every shape, and every form from different avenue's.

And not a soul outside of Gotham would interfere because of what Batman did, "I remember that day, watching him on television, holding a broken man of steel, a broken woman that hailed from Themyscira, and behind him we're a few more heroes' chained or badly beaten. He then threaten the whole world to not do anything to him in his city, as he'll know how to break them with ease...God...It was glorious to see, to hear, and to feel that power," the Knight said, lost in their fantasy as they kept working on fixing their helmet, "I always wanted to face them, was hoping too, but! Plans never go as they wanted them too. I wondered if my training, army, and everything that we learned up to this point would've been enough to kill him?" The Knight curiously wondered, "But sadly, Shiva's daughter took him down, and since replaced him," they inspected the helmet one more time, before taking off their welding helmet, with the only thing being revealed through dark was their short blond hair. They put on the helmet and Its technology was functional, its lighting hid their face once more, and there was no longer a fragment bullet disrupting their helmets functionality, "And thus, a new challenge was brought forth to me, in a way her mother wanted. Cassandra Cain Vs me, the Arkham Knight. Her small family, vs my huge family...I won't lose, can't afford too, not at this point."

A door was heard sliding open automatically, bringing more light to the room, and more noise coming from the working forces of the knight's of the sun, "Knight," a thick Russian accent was heard coming from a man that entered.

The Knight turned to see the men in a white mask come to them, "How's your wounds Dimitri?" The Knight asked.

Dimitri massaged one part of his shoulder where he got shot, even with his whole entire face being covered by a white mask, the expression in his eyes and voice can be told that he didn't like getting shot multiple times, "Your armor dose the job. Legs, shoulders, and even liver were protected," while the armor was similar in design like most, Dimitri added a navy suit and tie to give the illusion that he has no protection.

Which in hindsight, was why Redhood focused on the more important parts to kill him and left him to the sea. If it wasn't for him shooting the Knight first, he could've indeed killed him. A wise mistake on his part, since they too were prepared for that possibility, "Good," The knight would get up, move towards a grinder where they grab their sword and begin sharpening it, staying ready, "You found her?"

Dimitri shook his head, "Нет. She uzed a camouflauge devize to escape with the demon head aftera helping withe the civizlianz. A custom built tech that we can't zee from the camera's we've hacked acrosz Gotham."

"Smart like her father, deadly as her mother," they mutter to themselves, "And what about Carnage?"

"In hiding, bveen bouncing from plaze to plaze, gathering those who would choose to follow him. But somehow smart, letting his followerz spread the word around, and to those who need a type of god to save them."

Stopping the grinding to a halt, they tilt their head at Dimitri, sensing that he's being tight lipped about something, "Don't be so modest Dimitri, say what you want to say? From the heart," there was again that added playfulness in their voice, even tapping where their own heart was for an added gesture.

Dimitri eyebrow shrewd, looking away for a second before looking back at the Knight, "...Loose canon. That Freak should not be trusted."

Laying their chin on the palm of their hands, on top of the mechanical grinder, the Knight's interest was piqued by his statement, "Odd that you call him a freak when you yourself were known to have a psychotic meltdown, involving having suffered from echopraxia. Hell, I knew you once thought you were your own brother at one point, calling yourself Kraven the hunter instead of the chameleon. And that mask isn't a mask but your own face in white pigment, however you made it look like a mask. Or, the fact you confessed your love to Spider-Man, and afterword's," they then snicker, "You tried to kill yourself when the poor Spider laugh at your attempt of profession. It was also a bold move at the confession happening where he lost his girlfriend. So.. Your telling me your not a freak like everyone else in this city?" Dimitri didn't respond, his own brown eyes shifting away from the Knight gaze as he clutched his fist tightly, "Aw, don't look so down," they remove themselves from the posture, proceeding to pat the head of Dimitri, "You'll kill the Spider before whatever Carnage will do to them. After all, the Spider killed your brother as you so believe, so I understand. Just remember," They lean close to Dimitri ear's, shorter than him, but not enough that they need to tip toe, "You know your place, you help me with my plan's, and I help with yours. Now do your part and leave me to my own devices."

Again, he didn't respond, and did what he was told, leaving the Arkham Knight alone in their area. The door shut, and the Knight move towards a room where they took off their metallic arms, and used their fingerprints to gain access to the room, "Only youuuuuuuuu…" the door open up, revealing it to be cold, the room having a cyan look to its icy feeling, with only source of light focusing on a refrigerator like unit that stood up, and had a mirror to see through it, "Can make this world seem rightttt…Only you, can make the darkness bright. Only you, and you, alone…Can thrill me like you do…" The Knight's hands wipe away the fogginess of the mirror.

Revealing it to be a man who's own skin was similarly white like Dimitri, but had something red related on his lip, either lipstick, or blood smear on their grinning lip, green hair that look to be thinning, and their own dead eyes looking down upon the Knight as their neck seem to be twisted, crushed in a way that indicated how they died. It was the fame clown prince of crime, the Joker, in all of his frozen glory, dead but not forever if the Arkham Knight had anything to do about it, "And fillllll my heart with love, for only youuuuuuuuuuuuu…" They kept their hands on the mirror, staring fondly at the clown they wanted to bring back, "...Don't worry… You'll be back at my side. And we'll be together like we promise. A real dynamic duo. I promise…"

---

"CARNAGE!"

"CARNAGE!"

"CARNAGE!"

It never got old for Cletus to hear his name be shouted amongst the people that love him, love what he's preaching, and love the family he's growing. He was in a church, dressed as a priest in a black robe, but didn't have the lord and savior on his neck. No, he was the lord, in fact behind him where the lord should've stood on the cross, was only replaced by the actual priest he murdered earlier.

He then proceeded to silence everyone with the shush of fingers, to which they all did as he stood right under the lord himself that he doesn't worship, "Today is the day of understanding!" His partner, Shriek, started playing the piano nearby as a church pianist. She too wore her own garment similar to Cletus, "Knowing who you are, and what you are all capable of," every word that comes out of him, Shriek evoke the instrument to sing more praise into his words, and the army ate it up, nodding, muttering out yes's, agreeing with him, "Gotham already had a hand in shaping who you are. Whether you had no home, no family, or had nothing at all, but feel unaccomplished. Hell! Maybe you're here because you want to figure out who you are, your true potential," Cletus walks from the left to right when talking, letting his voice echo to either direction, "Well then, brothers, sisters," he stood by in the center, coating himself in his carnage self on one half of his body, "You've come, at the right place!"

Everyone chants, screams his name as Shriek intensifies the harmony of his speech. But meanwhile, all the way in the back, with his top hat on and a simple black coat on was Alfred jotting down his notes on a notepad. He pulled out his phone, showing the locations of where Cletus has been going back and forth. From the likes of area's such as Otisburg where the place known as Divinity church resides, to other places close to the Gazette, and to Old Gotham. Each places held a certain pattern from what he gather, and while he was at the very least able to find several places that houses this anarchist, it didn't took long for Alfred to truly understand why Cletus was going around these specific areas, and even specific buildings like Divinity church, 'This is all related to Peter. This place was where May frequented after her husband passed. What has he planned for him?' He questioned himself when finishing up his notes, 'I must make sure I add this to the bat computer subnet just as well.'

"Come all! Prove yourself, to me! To us!"

Once everyone got up, to be accepted into the fold of Cletus. It was time for Alfred to make his runabout escape. He didn't obviously take the entrance that led outside; near to where he sat was a room he went in that held rooms for where people live and sleep in. But now, it holds people who are in endless sleep. Some had their eyes open, others mouths open, but all the more, Alfred was shocked to find the dead workers of the church laying on their beds. It made him sick to his stomach, but he had to keep going and push forward.

They'll get justice, he knows it.

The next room in front held a back room, one where he could hear Shriek's piano playing more closely, and held stairs that led to the top of the church where the bell hung idly on top. And the second he made it outside, Alfred thought he could at the very least get away scot free, but then he was almost sucker punched. If it wasn't for his quick movement to duck to avoid the large portion of the person attacking, he surely would've had his lights cut out. Briefly scuffling to the ground, and went to a break for it, seeing as Cletus had man everywhere and watching, and now had him at his sights, "STOP THE TRESPASSER!"

Alfred wasn't as young as he was before to have an easier time escaping these hooligans'. With whatever bit of symbiotes that's inside them, he stood no chance of even trying to run, and he would need to out think them if he wants to survive. One of them managed to tackle him on the ground, picking him up, and threw a good punch to his gut that made Alfred's own air come out from his mouth. The man held back in not killing him, because he could see the glee in their eyes, the eyes of a person that wants to kill but takes their time. If it wasn't for Alfred having a trick up his sleeve; already having a small device out in his hand, tapped it, letting activate and blinking in blue, he dropped it, and just before the attack could do way more damage, the device in turn created both a concussive blast, but also a loud sonic sound wave.

It did the trick alright, pushing back the attackers, and stopping them from getting up, meanwhile Alfred too took the blast, falling back. The hard ground didn't do wonders for him, but he could still stand and make an escape. At least a minute or so later, he was able to create some distance from the church, hiding himself in an alleyway. He felt his chest tighten, his heart racing, Alfred growling at the pain he felt, and from the inside of his coat, he grabbed a capsule of pills and popped one in his mouth, calming him, 'I know… Not as young as I used to be…' His hand touched his forehead, feeling it open up a cut, and luckily, he came prepared as he ended up rolling a bandage on his forehead to stop the bleeding, 'But god is on my side, just like you are May,' Alfred felt himself sighing. As the adrenaline was wearing off the pain was beginning to register more and more, and again it didn't do wonders for him, 'I know, you must think I'm dreadfully stupid May. To put myself in danger when I'm damn near old enough to have stroke from doing this,' he finished up bandaging, letting his body slump on the ground, relaxing, as well as staring up to the gray clouds, 'But I need to cover whatever bases I can when we're not enough right now. Your nephew is in a coma and has regressed once again due to all the pain and trauma he's been through. Cassandra is all over the place to decide what's the proper next move, and she feels she must let go of her humanity to be strong when that isn't the case. Barbara doesn't have the same confidence in who she is, and she feels that her brain is no longer enough to help when she knows she wants to do more. Dick is going through an oddity of rage and characteristic issue that makes him unbalanced to the point everyone is afraid he'll do something unforgivable if not monitored. Seems Jason is back, and I heard he's still drinking his life away to death while isolating himself from us. Tim and Stephanie don't seem like they want any part of what's going on, and I don't blame them for what the Joker did to them last year. Selina, poor Selina has to keep everyone in order, yet she herself is suffering from how hard it is to deal with the likes of her husband, to now dealing with more problems that come with this family. And Bruce...My own son...I know I wish for him to be able to help his family, but I know in his heart how much he changed after what Joker did to him, that led him deciding that he must cross the line to purified evil. For all the therapy he has done, he still wants to purify evil, and I'm not sure if there's any way for him to move on from that. And so...He's so busy fighting with himself, wrestling with his emotions, that he doesn't know the right way to help his family without becoming Batman again.'

It was all so much for the old butler, to see how much his family is going through and that it's his responsibility to find a way to lift the burden off their shoulders just a bit. He stood up seeing as he felt at the very least strong enough to get back to the manor, 'Whatever happens to me May...Know that I'll do whatever it takes to help them, and...If by pushing myself to do so much I end up seeing you, that wouldn't be so bad would it..?' He asked himself, as a way of asking her as the sun slowly was coming out of the clouds

It was almost as if May Parker answered him with a positive message that made his steps all the more easier to take.

---

Close to 7 years ago

Peter was surrounded by the people he loves; the woman he loves being Gwen Stacy sitting right beside him along with her father across the table who bears a striking resemblance to his daughter, yet instead of blond he had gray hair, instead of soft jaw line he had a strong jawline, and instead of being on the short end he was the tallest person in the room, and that was who George Stacy was. Mary Jane too was there, sitting across the table from Peter and Gwen while another adult; who was joyish in his expression, had brown hairs that were waves beyond waves , and look to be trying to grow a mustache who pours each and everyone a bottle of whine, "This all looks fantastic Misses Parker!"

"Uhh, I think you mean amazing Harry!" Peter corrected just as he took a piece of chicken and stuffed it right into his mouth.

His own Aunt ended up slapping his hands before he could take another as she set down more plates of food, "I thought I taught you manners Peter!"

Peter's eyes rolled and had his arms crossed, "Yesss Aunt May…" It didn't help that Gwen too took a small bit of ham by her side, "AUNT MAY!"

Gwen's father, who at first looked to be too busy looking over something on his phone, looked up to find his own daughter mimicking Peter, "Gwen…"

Unlike Peter, Gwen ducked her head in shame, "Sorry dad, it was just so tempting!"

"You know," Harry took a seat near Mary Jane, "It's crazy that out of almost everyone here that is as young as me, I have the most manners."

Mary Jane would scoff at his comment of mannerism, "Unlike those two love birds, you're forgetting me here? The redhead who develops her own mannerism?"

"Hey!/Excuse me?!" Peter and Gwen said at the same time, cutting off whatever cheeky comment Harry would've made.

This got a roundabout giggles and chuckles from the table due to Peter and Gwen's reaction, "See now that's just sweet and funny. Somehow y'all both still try to hide being a cute couple but that's impossible anyhow!" In this case, it got both of them to blush lightly. Even as adults, Peter and Gwen still had the tendency to hide a lot, not just relationship wise, but also Spider wise. Yet here in this table, they didn't need to hide anything, "Especially when he does a bit of thwip thwip," Mary Jane gestures to Peter's iconic hand movement when spinning out of his web.

In this table, Peter and Gwen can be comfortable exposing everything and everything to what they have with one another, and also what they do behind closed doors that involves helping Gotham.

"No work talk on the table Ms. Watson," May said as she took her seat near George, "That goes for you too Commissioner," she took his phone, put it on silent, and put it in the middle of the table, "It's thanksgiving, and we should be free from distractions," May eyes quickly drifted to Peter and Gwen, "That also includes the both of you. I'm sure Batman and his fellow people can handle the city without the two of you for the time being."

"I meannnnnn."

"Don't wanna hear it Peter! Now, let me start by saying grace."

May said as everyone held their hands together to say their own grace, and held their eyes shut, "So as to start it off, I'm thankful to have such wonderful people here, both new and old, and I can't wait what next year holds for all of us. For example, George here becoming newly Commissioner," George lightly grumble, but stopped it with her May hitting his legs with hers, "Gwen successfully able to become an intern in forensic science, Peter and Harry starting up a business...Of sorts, and Ms. Watson soon to be lighting up Broadway. I can't help but be...Happy to have such wonderful people in my life. I won't lie...How hard it is to accept certain changes in my life, but those changes came with truth, and those truths only made my bond with this family stronger. And with it being stronger, it allowed me to pursue other endeavors that allow me to help people who need it...I can only hope my Ben could see the woman I became now, more confident and strong because she's only strong due to the people around this table that inspired her to be strong. Which continually allows me to be strong enough to provide warmth, comfort, and a roof over people's head to whoever needs it," May felt a huge relief to get all that out of her chest, sighing positively, "Ok, George? How about you go next hm?" She asked while keeping her eyes close just like everyone else.

"If I must…" He grumbled that made the younger people giggle and chuckle, "Well," he cleared his thoughts, taking a moment to think about what he wanted to say in terms of being grateful, "..I'm thankful for getting through another year of being a cop in Gotham. Somehow, someway, I am also thankful to have been able to work with some people, but also able to finally meet certain people who tend to hide who they are whenever they do help me."

"Keep your eyes closed, you two!" May said, catching a glimpse of Gwen and Peter eyes open to George's direction before she went back to closing her eyes. It only served to have Mary Jane and Harry hold their laughter in.

"..It's funny how ironic life can be, or how small the world is when you find out the people closest to you are doing things with such courage. I thought people like them were being stupid, being a nuisance, or out right following the bad crowd. My detective skills had ideas of what they may be up to, but my emotions often got the best of me to not see what's underneath. And if I'm honest? I'm grateful to have learned what trust really can look like when people sit down and talk. That's what always was the problem with me, I'm not the most communicative person, often saying stuff with simple words and meaning to get straight to the point. But the people around this table allowed me to be more than that, better even. I learn from each and everyone here in this table what communication can look like if you allow yourself to open the line... I think more importantly is that I'm grateful that my daughter is able to find more people in her life. She…Never exactly got along with a lot of people, either because she was the smartest in the room, toughest in the room, and harnessed the energy of being a punk rock while going behind my back and getting herself a tattoo, just to spite me."

"Dad!"

"George…"

George again grumbled on his breath even when he kept his eyes closed. It was his way of being grateful so he found it annoying that they're not let him say what he wanted, "I'm not good at this May! You know that!"

May groaned at how badly this was going even though it was going smooth at first, "Just finish before you embarrass your daughter more."

George cleared his throat again, "Anywho… I'm happy my daughter is becoming a fine woman in this harsh world we live in, and I'm also glad she's doing her part to make it less harsh for others," George sighed, even when he couldn't see Gwen and just about everyone was smiling at George's grace. It warmed Gwen's heart to hear those words coming from her father, who can be rough around the edges at times, but also is her father at the end of the day, "..Terrible I know, which is why I skip Thanksgiving a lot."

"It was fine by me, Commissioner Stacey!" Peter said.

"Agree dad," Gwen too said.

"You were wonderful ok. The landing could've been better, but still wonderful," May acknowledge, "Now who-"

"ME!" Mary Jane shouted, "Oh..Sorry. Um me. If you don't mind?" She asked, while still holding her hands to both Harry and May.

May giggled at Mary Jane's enthusiasm, "You may."

"Ok! Well, this is my first Thanksgiving in a long time. Last one was…Well not good, briefly went back home, my dad was drunk and ended up ruining what good I could've had with my mother and sister...Also wasn't great with them and honestly kept reminding me of the...Not so good choices I made to get where I'm at right now...But! I can safely say it has changed for the better. And it was thanks to meeting everyone here! I mean through Harry, to whom I met well...Partying hard, I met two wonderful people, and then I met the people who raised them! Heck! That couple saved my life; Gwen being smart enough to stop me from od'ing, and Harry and Peter ended up beating the jerks that sold me the dope. Oh, and I have to go back to Gwen," Mary Jane's own dimple lit up like a Christmas tree, "She put into perspective what I need to do to be better, to not be in that same position I was in. And so, I'm grateful for spending a more positive Thanksgiving with good people for once, amazing people in fact! I only hope that I can give back that same kindness in return because some part of me felt it doesn't deserve how any of you can tolerate me with the choices I made, and who I was that only seems to be more toxic than anything. At least...If not give back the kindness, I can only attest to just being, well...Better. Meaning no drinking, drugs, partying, just focus on being Mary Jane Watson, the next beautiful woman that would take the acting scene by storm!"

Mary Jane let out her own huge sigh of relief as she felt she'd been holding on to all that had happened within her for so long. To let out the bad, but the good that has happened to her. She felt May's squeeze her hand, reassuring her that she was in a good home to speak about her feelings, her emotions, and anything and everything. She felt at peace because of that.

"I think it should be me going next before the last two," Harry said, can't help making his presence known by his vibrant voice, "It's fitting because their speeches will have more weight I presume. But for me? I'll keep it simple and just say… I'm thankful to know what a family is like. It's been… Mostly me? My dad wasn't around even before he went mad and green. But here I learn thanks to all of you what a proper family can look like, and I have to thank god that I met Peter to be able to meet every single one of you all. Man...To meet someone like Peter, and everyone of you was something I didn't expect to happen last year. But everything happens so fast, so quickly, and also in such a smooth sensation where...We all just click with ease. Again, I'm just...Really happy to be part of this family, right here and right now. And also, I can't help but thank myself for not going to college till another year cause then I wouldn't room with the genius in front of me," Harry's grin widened at the prospect of who would be next, "And now, the main event!"

"Pressure much Harry?"

"Hey, it's not that much MJ."

May would shush them as she waited to hear who would talk first. Peter tapped his feet together, seeming like he was still prodding what he wanted to say. And the small groan of Gwen meant she was becoming impatient, and her throat being cleared meant she'll take the first step, "There's…A Lot that I'm graceful of… Like being alive since I put myself in danger a lot of times," George's grumble was loud and cleared, but also a groan of pain with May hitting his legs again, "Sorry dad if I worry, and sorry May if I scared you half to death with those unknown injuries I had when I was younger. Too busy helping this guy right here with his battles," she motioned her head to her boyfriend who too couldn't help but grumble under his breath, "… Man… I guess, I'm mostly grateful for that. Being alive and being here with everyone. I could've died so many times but somehow I didn't. Somehow I'm still here helping others, and helping them in some way has brought new changes in my life that I couldn't ever possibly imagine... I think it stems from the fact I couldn't save my mom, but what kind of kid could've saved their sick mother huh? And then when Peter came to my home, across from this place, showing me why he wasn't in school half of the time, all bruised and bloody in my room as his costume was ripped to shreds from fighting Doctor Conner's who turned into the Lizard at the time. I... just wanted to help, help him as a way of...Not being able to help my mom or even my dad in a sense. It's funny...Because that's another thing that he and I have in common, and maybe why we're often so inseparable since meeting each other in middle school. We have our ups and downs, but I can't stop helping him, can't stop making sure he's alright, and I guess you can say… I can't stop loving him.." No one dared to say anything with how much Gwen was pouring out in how much she's grateful for the life she has in front of her. If anyone could see, Peter's mouth was slightly open, his head turned to her, his hands all the more felt like he was holding onto a weight that he wanted to hold onto forever. That no matter how heavy it can be, he wants to hold onto it with dear life because it means so much to him, "..And because I've been helping him since we were 15, it means I want to help others however way I can. Somehow… I found something that I'm passionate about and I can care about. Took me 5 years, but..I've found it. I wish my friend Jason was here to see it, but I know he's watching from above. Now I hope I can pay for it with the bare money I'm making. I'm grateful for the life I have, I'm grateful for the people around me, I'm grateful for the challenges I will keep dealing with, and...I'm grateful to have someone I love, someone I can trust, and someone I can help however way I can in my life."

While no one said anything, each and everyone was blown away with how deep Gwen got. It might've been short, but it hit straight into the nail of the coffin of what Gwen wanted to say. Now, Peter was the center of the table, with everyone patiently waiting for his grace. The 20 year old had been through a lot in the 5 years he's been Spider-Man. One where he's lost battles, not being able to save people, get run over by the media, but somehow able to have this. People, and more than just two people, but few others close to him that really knows who is. And then there's the battles he has won, the people he has saved, the heroes he's earned their respect, but above all else.

The fact that things have been looking up for him. Compared to a year ago, he hopes he can keep it that way, "I'm thankful that I have each and everyone one of you to give me the strength to keep going. I...Never asked to be Spider-Man, but I became it when I didn't do the right thing that cost my uncle's life. Since then, I've been trying to do everything I can so no one else has to suffer the same fate. Because I couldn't save him, I wanted to save everyone. I know it's...Impossible, but I wanna keep trying. I failed...Countless times in terms of saving people or stopping the bad guys, and it doesn't get easier as I keep doing this. But I'm not alone, I have everyone here, I have other heroes' helping even if I'm stubborn to accept their help...I'm glad I'm not alone in this, cause I don't know if I could ever be as successful as I became in terms of being a hero for Gotham. A city that doesn't trust me even when I try so hard to make sure they can trust me. But it's fine, I'll keep enduring whatever is I have to deal with just so everyone's lives can be easier. I'm still here, grateful for the people around me, grateful for the lesson that's been bestowed on me, and grateful that I have the free will to keep trying to do good, to keep trying to be better. I can only hope my uncle is proud of the person I am and becoming, and I hope that I can keep honoring my friend Jason by keep fighting the good fight, simply by being responsible with the gift I got by accident."

Everyone's eyes opened up, having various glances to Peter's thanks; For May and George, both were proud of the man he was becoming. With how much he's been through, he still wears his heart on his sleeve, and keeps striving to help anyone he can as Spider-Man. Mary Jane was fond of his speech, and couldn't help but see how amazing Peter was as a person, and even felt just a bit envious that she couldn't be something more than just a friend. Harry too felt proud to be a friend, maybe even a brother to Peter. Not only that, he felt honored to be in his life, surrounded by other good people, and most of all, he felt honored to know a side of Peter that most doesn't know. The kind of side that in some ways, is better than himself. And he himself wishes he can be like Peter, someday that is. Gwen was different as she couldn't take her eyes off him, couldn't stray away from him, and not even for a second, could she stand the idea of not being with him. With all that he's been through for the past 5 years of being who he is, she stood by him no matter what. And she won't leave him no matter how tough it gets, because she loves him.

Peter opened his eyes, letting go of his Aunt's hands to hold onto Gwen's own. It caused her to be attentive to Peter, opening up her eyes. Both of them looked at each other deeply into their eyes. His hazel eyes to her celeste eyes, just as everyone couldn't help but be at awe of what they were seeing of the power couple, "I also love you too, and… I know I have my ups and downs… I know I'm not mister perfect, and I know you have your ups and downs, and that your not misses perfect," Gwen couldn't help but scoff, giggle, and eye roll at that little comment, making her boyfriend chuckle at her reaction, "Heh...But I don't care about that, and am just grateful your still in my life, still willing to be part of this crazy life that I brought into your life. You save my behind so much, got my head into gear so many more times...I love you so much that words can't exactly be put into perspective of how much you mean to me Gwen," Gwen felt her heart racing, her lips drifting from smile to not trying to smile as hard as she want too right now, and her eyes stayed focus on Peter, never leaving him, "And what we have right here? It's all because you had a part in it. If I was doing this by myself then I would've been more by myself than what I am now. It's you that allows me to be open, and have trust in people so that this weight I carry, doesn't have to be just me...So...There heh...I'm happy and grateful to be here."

Gwen quickly kissed him, loving him, embracing him, but also surprising him with how bold she was to do this in front of her dad and his Aunt, "WHOOP WHOOP!"

"SO CUTE!"

"CUT IT OUT YOU TWO BEFORE I START SHOOTING!"

"NOT IN MY HOUSE GEORGE."

Then, everything went still.

The teenage Parker was and had enjoyed this moment, just as the older Parker sat in the living room watching this. He wasn't shocked from the sort of out of body experience that just happened since he's been in this sort of limbo for quite some time. A limbo where he had the capacity to look at what he wanted, and right now was an almost 7 year old memory he so desperately misses and wishes to hold onto. With him no longer experiencing this memory from his younger self perspective, all he simply could do was stare at the moment that was like a picture being taken.

A snapshot of a past he missed and this was the only time he could ever experience it again.

Someone sat by him, her blond hair was the most prominent thing about her due to how long and big it was. Then they had red shades on while wearing a green leather coat with a fishnet as leggings, and black boots. Peter didn't have to look to see who it was that entered his subconscious, but he was somewhat surprised to find her here in the first place since he tried keeping her out, "I guess you're here to wake me CW?"

She frowned at his sly joke, "You're not funny Peter."

He let himself chuckle as he kept his eyes glued to the memory in front of him before it disappeared, withering away as the whole space around them became gray with Peter and the women sitting together, letting webs spin and connect one another. The couch they sat on lay forth to be the center of a web that spanned all around them. These webbings that connected to one another held onto memories that were solely focused on Peter being alive for the past 27 years. It all encompasses his triumph and failures as Spider-Man, to the more innocent times before he ever became Spider-Man. Each webbing showcases a way that Peter can move towards it and experience the memory as if it was the first time. With the years of being Spider-Man that involve different levels of battles, he learned a thing or two of how powerful his mind is in a space between life and death that can manipulate, and it allows him to play out these mind bending events before him in his subconscious. It also meant, people like the woman near him can see and experience what he's experiencing, and if powerful enough, can control the space around them if they so please, "But seriously Charlotte, you're here to wake me up because if I don't, I disrupt the balance of the web? Or some mambo jumbo stuff?" Peter questions as if he doesn't believe whatever is the true reason why Charlotte wanted him awake.

"Tsk, even with all the stuff you face involving magic, you still don't believe that at the center of the web of destiny, you're the person that started all this?" She questioned with her eyebrow notably being arch.

"Well that's because I find it hard to believe in faith, in destiny, because nothing is ever preordain."

"Yet, some things do happen for a reason Peter. For example me," Charlotte pointed to herself, "In most other realities; I don't take after my grandmother instead someone else does, someone far better," her tone became self deprived, "But in this reality, I'm Madame Webb, and it's my duty to keep everything at a balance."

"And me being in a coma messes that up?" Peter then stood up, "I'll wake up anyhow," his frown was ever present even before Charlotte appeared. She saw the sadness in his hazel eyes even if he stood strong to confront what's next, "...I always do anyways…" He said, sounding as if he's simply tired of always needing to get back up time and time again.

"But you don't want to," Peter kept his back in front of Charlotte, turning more away from her when she's talking, "Deep down, you wanna stay in the times when you had everyone by your side before you let yourself be a part of Cassandra's family. Almost like that's what you want more than ever."

Peter scratched his head, looking up at the many tangled, tied, connected webs showcasing all that he is. He can see his early years stopping a car chase, the time where he made his costume pink at the laundry and Gwen shouted at him for it, the time he argued with Batman about how he dealt with villains, and so on, and so on. He saw the memories, the good, the bad, the funny, and the ugly all together, "...And what if it is? What if I simply want to just...Be around the family I had, instead of being part of the family I have now? Not because I don't like it, but because it's missing my people...My own family..."

"Then you know why I'm here," Charlotte stood up to be near him, having her hands in her pocket, "You should've woken up a while ago but you're not. You're allowing yourself to be stuck in the past just like how you always want it to be."

"Almost like I've been waiting for this moment again?" Peter both asked and guessed.

Charlotte could only shrug, "What do you think?"

Peter sighed in the process, "Obviously that's the case," he responded while rubbing his chin, "Over the years I grew close with Cassandra family that I became more part of it, but at the expense was because I kept losing the people that we're my family...This is my way of just wanting to be around them again," remembering the Thanksgiving memory again brought it up in front of them, the web was forming, turning, and wrapping itself to bring forth the memory once more to the surface. Replicating just a bit of the environment and people he wants to see. Till he can fully see the thanksgiving table again, with his younger self and everyone around him as he kisses Gwen back, "Just a bit more…" Peter looked to reach out his hands at the memory, the memory that held so much important detail with all the people he wanted to have again in his life.

"You were young here," Charlotte noted, "I think by this time we already had fought if I'm not mistaken?"

"Yeah we did." he answered as his hands fell by his side. With the topic at hand, instead of the Thanksgiving memory, it was a new memory coming forth. It had Peter in his older costume, going at it with Charlotte, who had a more outlandish green and ebony like costume that showed some skin, and a green domino mask that had red lenses to it. As well as showing her fighting Peter, it also showed Peter protecting a young girl from what seem like Charlotte four stingers coming from her back trying to strike the young girl, but her stinger was held back by Peter, who at the time had four hands, "It would be another few months till you would go after Mattie who would just had gotten her powers, and your grandmother had me chase after you once more to protect Mattie as I was dealing with uh... My four arm's problem."

"Heh, and then I lost my powers because of that girl, went more bat shit insane, and you became a man spider."

"Yep, that's putting it lightly. But we had your grandmother to help us out."

"Still don't feel like I deserve her role. All I did was hurt her as I rejected what she wanted from me," she explained, interjecting her emotions that allowed her to mix with her memory. Near Peter, was a younger Charlotte yelling at her grandmother. Charlotte resembles her grandmother beyond the fact her grandmother was older, bone's were more thin, hair gray, and wore a blindfold just like her granddaughter did so. It was her anger being shown while it counters to the stoic nature of her grandmother, "I didn't want to take over what she oversea, I wanted someone who can be there for me, a mother of sorts since I lacked one for a long time."

Peter shrugs as he now faces her, "All in the past right?" Talking about her grandmother also formed another memory before them. Charlotte on her knees with Peter, the younger girl that was Mattie, and her grandmother sitting in a sort of spider mischief seat. Charlotte seemed to be more in tears just as everyone looked on, not out of pity, anger, or even shame. They all looked at her as someone they can help, "You're doing great as is, couldn't think of anyone better than you. Don't go the route of self doubt CW."

A small smirk raised from her lips, "Look at you, suffering yet still find the time to help me," she looked up to him, "Enough of worrying about others, Peter. Now it's your turn to help yourself."

Peter would let go of these memories in front of him as he turned to look at Charlotte, "How..?"

"Trauma. Specific memories that are keeping you here from waking up."

---

Alfred came back to the mansion. The first person to notice his appearance was Cassandra; her eyes widened and she quickly went to get some first aid pack to take care of the small wounds placed around his face. Minutes would pass by as they both were in the living room, quiet, but also contended with each other. Cassandra told him of what he missed; that Trigate Bridge was under siege by the Arkham Knight to capture Talia and in the process if it wasn't for Jason pulling through, then everything would've been on her. She made a poor decision of trying to out maneuver the Arkham Knight and failed miserably that had gotten people hurt because of it. The police would likely now fight more against commissioner Dewolff's choice of working with her, and certain media like the Gazette were already having a field day with what went on in the Trigate bridge. It didn't matter if Cassandra contributed to helping where she could on the bridge when she dropped Talia off; officer's, people, media, all found something to blame for what Cassandra had done. In hindsight, Cassandra is experiencing more and more of what Peter felt in his career of being Spider-Man. Sure, some people in Gotham didn't trust Bruce or anyone related to him, but it often seems Peter was the easier target to pick on when he was more prominent in appearance wise compared to any of them.

Cassandra never exactly cared about her reputation before. Whether people like her or not, it was none of her concern when it came to the mission. Yet time's changed since then, and now she wears a mantle that has more weight then she ever realized. And with that weight, comes a level of responsibility to have people trust in her, to believe that she will do right by them. More and more, Cassandra realizes the level of responsibility of being Batwomen is compared to when she was once Batgirl. as she almost finishes up bandaging Alfred, it's here where she realizes something about the mantle and its responsibility, '...I was naive wasn't I...? I so badly wanted to redeem the symbol that I didn't think twice of how...Different it would be from being Batgirl, or when I once went by Black Bat... Or maybe, at that time, I didn't have to worry about it so much because Bruce...Was Batman,' she finished off bandaging Alfred and went to put away the medic kit that she got from the kitchen. As she went back to the living room, she couldn't help but find herself staring at the pictures, in particular, when everyone was here in the manor and happy, '...How many times have you tried to tell me that I'm not him...? How many times have any of you tried to tell me I am me..? Whoever that is...And how many times I keep seeing myself as a soldier above all else...Instead of a leader...?'

Alfred wanted to try to get up and comfort Cassandra, but his legs would say otherwise, keeping him right back to the couch. Cassandra caught his silent groan, and immediately ditch whatever she was thinking and went to him, "I'm very much fine Cassandra, just wan-"

"Lies."

He sighed, seeing it was even fruitless to begin with to hide his pain from Cassandra in the first place. Alfred didn't very much like worrying her about his health, but Cassandra often can't help but worry about everyone, "How foolish of me to lie then," he lightly chuckled with Cassandra not following suit as she sit near him to keep a better eye on him, "I had to do something instead of nothing," Alfred said, frowning and causing Cassandra to sighed, "With everyone having their own task and all over the place, I needed to make sure to stay one step ahead of things, however way I could."

Cassandra understood that, but it didn't make it easier for her to accept it, "Could've died," she said as she took a moment to examine what else needed cleaning, what else needed stitching, "Can't let that happen."

"I know this, and I'm truly sorry for worrying Ms. Cain. How is Master Peter conditioned?" He asked.

"Still in coma. No change."

Cassandra saw no further need of tidying up Alfred in terms of health. And it allowed Alfred to see how much the incident at the Triagate bridge was eating her up, "You took action. Even when it was…Hazardous, you did what you felt was right."

"People die. My fault. My responsibility," her eyes looked away from Alfred, again sighing before returning his gaze, "Have to be better."

"True, but for starters, listen to Master Bruce. There's a time and place to take action, but also a time and place to wait."

"..I know."

"And well while Talia has a sound idea into taking charge, doesn't mean you should follow the vindictiveness of that woman," he advises, "Hear what she says, but don't act till you know when it's right."

"What if I thought was..Right?" Alfred took a moment to process her meaning, same time letting her continue her thought process, "At the moment…Thought was right. Bait. Pawn forward. Yet didn't account…to the speed of it," her eyes squinted at trying to get the proper words out. She knows what she wants to say, but as always, her mouth could never follow suit unless she was yelling in anger or frustration, "Didn't know…What to do… Use Batmobile cloak…Slowed me down...And Had to make it look like…I wasn't with her."

He can tell she thought of every avenue to get the edge on the Knight, but what she might've missed out was the fact the Knight had an army behind their back while she only had herself and Barbara to a point. Cassandra was only one person at the moment against a person who likely trained their whole life for this, while having eyes and ears everywhere more than she has, "One person Cassandra," he said with raising one finger, "You are but one person. So even though you thought it was right to use Talia as bait, you didn't have others to help you, even the odds in your favor. You can't rush this game of chess unless you want to lose."

"So I'm supposed to wait?" Cassandra's voice trickled out with annoyance, "Wait till he recovers? Or wait for Dick?" Her eyebrows shrewd as she stood and created some distance from Alfred as she felt her anger overtaking her. Her back was turned, as she had her hand by her waist, and one ruffling her hair, "...Can't. City burning. Need to help. Need to be there," she turned to Alfred, "I'm the Bat! My city! My responsibility!"

Alfred could only nod at Cassandra' sentiment on the situation. With everything going on, he knows it's been tiresome to such a degree that she's willing to act on impulse rather than wait and think before doing, "Just remember this city and its people aren't all helpless. We'll be fine so long as you take care of yourself Cassandra. I know you don't want to take Bruce 's words or guidance, but his past wisdom still holds true to how he used to be. And if you can't bear to listen to those old wisdoms, then trust in the few people around you that only want to see you prevail and not fall."

By now, this has been banging on Cassandra's head more times than she can count. Take care of herself and heed the advice around her. It's hard for her to take care of herself when the city needs her, and it's hard to listen to any advice when she finally wants to be a leader, and not a soldier. If it wasn't anyone from the Bat family that kept trying to tell her these things, then of course it was Peter, '...Is that part of the reason why...I blew up on him...?' She wondered to herself, 'Beyond normal life, or what was building towards too... Did I yell at him because I didn't want...To hear him of all people, tell me what to do with my life...? Because….I simply wanted…Him to compile…With what I do..?' Her asking herself that only made her frown deepen, and her scowl slightly apparent as she had her thumb under her chin. Her eyes again drifted back to the pictures, '...How can I tell myself I am better than some of the...People he's with...When I'm no better myself...? It only paints me more like my mother...Be free, trust only yourself, heed no words for no one, and if shall die, die by those better than you,' she shook her head, letting her hands cover her face and slump all the way down from her face, '...Toxic…'

More than anything right now, the truth of learning more about herself is only hurting her. Because now she's beginning to realize that deep down, she always shared her mother's toxic traits, 'I thought I was better than her. But I'm not, I am her, and I am my father too...' And that thought terrified her to no end, to realize just as she can't escape from Bruce's shadow, she can't escape from her parent's shadow, 'I thought being with Peter meant I'm different...But I'm not...' she took a deep breath in and out. Watching the picture of her family, more specifically, her and Peter, she now understood a bit more why she wanted to be with Peter more than anyone else, '...I thought he could save me...I thought he, and everyone had saved me...But no...' She clutched her fist, 'I need to save myself...Somehow, someway, so I can be better for all of them..'

Yet as the tightness of her fist was let go, Cassandra questioned one important thing through her introspection from herself, 'How do I save myself from being like my parents?' She asked herself, and only herself at this time. Because now, she had to not only confront herself, but whatever her mother had trained her to fight against.

Out of the corner of her eyes, Cassandra saw through the window Bruce driving up to the mansion, with Selina and him marching straight into the mansion and right into the living room, "Are you ok?" Bruce asked with concern, layering out in his voice and body language as he came close to her. For a split second, Cassandra's body tensed up, expecting Bruce to yell at her for making that decision to use Talia as bait. Bruce caused her body tensing up, and made sure to take a few steps back. He could've guessed it was the post traumatic disorder he caused her in the past.

This only made him frown, 'I shouldn't have walked to her like that. Last time I did so was when I told her to stand down, drop the Bat symbol on her chest, or stand by his side when killing people. An ultimatum, something I should've never giving to her knowing what she went through with her first kill, and knowing how much she has to go through to shut that part out of her mind when eyeing everyone around her,' Bruce tried a different approach say the least, offering some sort of comfort by being open for her to maybe even hug if need be.

But this wasn't a younger Cassandra who needed the right comfort from all the trauma's she went through in her life. No this was an older Cassandra who had those comforts, yet was torn away by him. Therefore, she kept herself still, arms crossed, and watched Bruce. It's here Bruce recognizes for the first time, he can see how much she truly hurt her, that he wasn't sure if she'll ever let him near her again, "Fine," she said, looking away from Bruce and Selina.

Selina gasps at seeing Alfred in the state he was in, "My god Alfred! What happened to you?!" She closes the distance and crouches, taking a look at him.

"I'm fine, I'm fine," shoeing away Selina's touches, "Just got into trouble getting intel on Kasady is all."

"Intel?" Bruce's eyes slightly widened, "Alfred, you can't be going out there looking for trouble such as them. They are metahumans for god sake!"

Alfred turns his direction towards Bruce, scowling at him, "Because I'm old?" He then scoffed, "I may be old but I'm not useless not to do my part in helping. Sure, I lost both of my hands to that clown, had concussions at ages I shouldn't even have, but I'm still here Master Wayne. So if I must do my part I will, even if it's to go against everyone's wishes."

"We're not saying no Al, but as you said, you've taken a beating that no older people should have in the past," Selina pointed out, "We just…Don't want to see that happen again."

Alfred again sighs, knowing everyone means well at the end of the day, but still feels like he's in the right when it comes to doing her part. Bruce, on the other hand, steel blue eyes drifted back to Cassandra, "What happened out there?"

Cassandra knew this conversation would've come, and she wasn't gonna avoid it, "I act," her basil eyes looking upon the taller former bat, "Tried to prevent casualties. Didn't. Paid for the consequence."

"You know better than to act on impulses Cassandra. Doing so only would likely give the GCPD more ammo to take down Dewolff's order of working with you."

"I'm the Bat. Have to decide. Can't wait," she shook her head, "Must fight back."

Bruce's face softened, part of him wanted to step closer to her, give her the emotional support she needed. But seeing as how she reacted moments ago when he tried that, he kept himself still, "And there's a time and place for all that. Just not now. Not alone, and not against an army."

She nodded, "I know. But I have to lead," she frowned, stopping herself from arguing with Bruce before it became worse, before it became like last year. She turned away from him, from them, "I'll be better," Cassandra moved the time on the clock to open the entrance of the Batcave. Without any more words to say, she left the older Bat family members to be with Peter and Barbara.

"Cass!" Selina tried calling her back, but the entrance closed, leaving her to sigh and frown at the prospect of seeing what's going on with her, and not being able to do much.

"Let her go Miss Wayne," Alfred spoke, "It seems the bridge and so far everything that's been transpiring in a month's time is getting to her. The fact that she doesn't have Peter right now doesn't help at all. It seems they too were going through some rough patches before, and right now, she likes everyone here, is all over the place."

Selina moves herself to sit by Alfred, "...Damn it... And I feel shitty for blaming her for not wanting to see us more, or maybe even finding time to check on everyone else. Now I can see why she's been so distant ever since she became Batwomen. She wants to find a way to do this on her own, with the only any help coming from Peter," Bruce and Alfred can hear the disappointment, the frustration of the fact of how much Cassandra had changed compared to who she used to be, "She use to be able to rely on us with anything, trust in us if anything gets bad, and now...Now as thing's becoming real bad, she wants to find a way to get through it with her own way, her own plan…"

With all this happening to Cassandra, it all comes right back to Bruce. He feels shameful that he brought upon this kind of change in Cassandra. He wanted to blame himself, take full responsibility, but what good would that do? He's been blaming himself for everything after Joker death, that maybe if he didn't kill him things would be different. He'll still be Batman and not letting the mantle take hold of her, or maybe he does retire but can be more there for her mentally wise. Because now? He doesn't know how to approach Cassandra like he used to, to comfort her, and tell her that all she needs is to be herself. He's see's it, now more than ever, that she's slowly becoming what he once was.

Before he befriended Gordan and Captain Stacy.

Before he ever crossed paths with Selina.

Before ever working together with Clark.

Before ever bonding with Diana.

Before ever adopting Dick

Before ever forming the Justice league.

Before ever instructing Barbara.

Before ever taking care of Jason.

Before ever understanding Peter.

Before ever trusting Captain Stacy's daughter.

Before ever giving a mantle to Tim.

Before ever accepting Stephanie.

And before ever comforting Cassandra.

The only thing she has so close to her is Peter, and not even Barbara is close to her as Peter is. Bruce couldn't help but feel useless on this front, and he hopes that Peter can pull through to help steer Cassandra in a better direction.

Cause god, he can't do as much as he used to. He wants to, but he has no way to enter her space to comfort her.

Bruce and the two others heard the sound of marching heels coming from the stairs, they would then see Talia go to the kitchen, prepping her tea. None of them said anything but kept an eye on her till she finished brewing her tea and made her way to the living room. With the cup in one hand, she took a sip of it before saying whatever it was on her mind, "...Delicious! Now, you all forgot one thing about the little Bat," she sips her team, slowly and taking in how good she made it, "She was an assassin before being a Bat. And therefore, she grew soft and forgot how to lead and decide what's the right move when cornered by a pack of ruthless animals. Something I had to remind her, and push to do what's necessary "

Selina scoffed and eye roll, "No way Cassandra would believe a word you say. After all, you helped her own mother try to kill her in the past!" Talia simply held her smirk and kept drinking her tea. She wouldn't need to say much as she saw how Bruce looked at Selina, in turn, changing her frowning expression to a scowl and anger, "...YOU BITCH!" Selina got up straight from the couch, even when Bruce went to hold her back, she was quick enough to still smack her hard on the cheeks. Alfred would try to stand to help de escalate the situation, but again he couldn't and so had to let Bruce hold Selina back as she tried escaping from his grasp, "THIS IS YOUR FAULT BITCH! SHE DIDN'T NEED TO BE PUSH OR PRODDED! NOW LOOK AT HER, AND WE CAN'T DO A DAMN THING!"

Talia remarkably held her stance firmly from being smack, not even the tea was knocked from the slap. She move her head right back to looking at Selina, adjusted her hair, kept her smug expression while now giggling at Selina's outburst, "Seems the Cat still can't control herself all the years hm?" quick as it was, Talia let go of her smile, replacing it with a thin straight line and her eyebrows knitting together, "You and everyone here still don't get it. She still and always has seen herself as a soldier following orders. And with a soldier without a leader, or actually, a soldier who doesn't know how to lead to begin with means death at their front door. Over the years, she got used to this family she had, that nothing terrible would break them apart and she can always fall back on them. But then, Bruce killed, everyone was scattered from his new mission, and when Cassandra defeated him, she quickly had to take the mantle under her belt to keep that spirit of what being Batman once was. She wasn't prepared to lead, prep to be the next Bat, it all happened so fast and now she can only rely on the old guidance you all gave to her. She can't hope to rely on any of you, because she doesn't want to burden any of you with who she is now. And that the only person she can trust is her beloved, and now she doesn't have him, and now she's more busy fighting with herself than fighting her new enemies. So hate me, fight me if need to be, do whatever it is that can make you feel better," Talia spoke when addressing not only to Selina, but to Bruce and Alfred, who all frown in her direction, "But regardless of what happened at the Trigate bridge, it was her decision and no one else's. I pushed her, but she chose, not me, her. This is war. Most importantly, this is her war with her beloved and she wants to do everything in her power to protect everyone here from this war. As you once told me Bruce, casualties will happen till there's a victor."

"...Even if you have a point Ms. Al Ghul," Alfred spoke up, "Was Jason part of this plan from the beginning? Did Cassandra have a say in that?"

"He was an insurance in case her plan didn't go through. To which I knew it wouldn't bode well in the end," she admitted.

Selina's eyes widened, looking to both Bruce and Alfred who weren't surprised by his appearance, "Wait, he's back? And..You still have him on a leash?!" She yelled out her question to Talia.

"Not really, Jason always chooses to work with me," Talia said, with an offended tone that was clearly fake, "After all, I am the one who brought him back to life, who took care of him and kept him away from my father's grasp, and so he's still my responsibility just as it is with any one of you."

"Talia, we all know the reason why he would work with you is because he owes you a debt that he will likely never make up for," Bruce stone cold voice said in response to Talia, "And we both know he never asked to be brought back to life," his glare became just a bit more notable, "I certainly never ask for him to be brought back knowing of what may happen if he did come back through your father means."

For once, Talia now was pissed off by Bruce's statement, "Are we going to forget that I, a demon head, brought him back for you?!" she put aside her tea on a nearby desk, "I remember how broken you were because of his death, even the Spider was so hell bent on hurting everyone afterwards! I brought him back to help you, and your family heal! And once he recovered on his own, I let him go. Yes, he never went straight back to Gotham till 3 years ago, but that wasn't up to me and it was up to him!" She then pointed at him, "And yet?! I still get treated badly for something I did, only because I loved you…" Now her tone switched to a somber, regretful tone, "I know...It wasn't right, but at that time, I made that decision for you Bruce..."

"He didn't ask for that!" Selina brushes off Bruce to step closer to Talia, "You even went behind your father's back before you replaced him! No one asked for Jason to come back the way he did, and the way he is now!"

"And this is something I've learned over time, Selina! I didn't see it from the countless people my father and I brought back to life to serve under us. But I saw it with Jason!" She said with more emotion that the likes of Selina, doesn't often hear from her nonchalant tone, "I saw with my own eyes what resurrection does for those who don't want to be alive! And that's why I destroy the Lazarus Pit! Because we all have one life, and there should be nothing giving us a second chance!" Talia paused in her sentence, closing her eyes as she felt her own stress coming up to the surface. She sigh, brushing her strand of brown hair from her eyelids, "Whether you never approved of Jason resurrection, or never much like him Selina, I know what I've done, and it's why I look to be a mother to him when he had none of that figure all his life."

Selina didn't have much to say back to her, to give a comment that had fire and gave it right back to her. She had nothing, besides for once, feeling sorry for Talia. Her frown was easily seen, "You always seem like you don't care about a lot...Never thought you would care for him of all people."

"There's a lot you still don't know about me Selina, and maybe you will start seeing it sooner than later," Talia's eyes went to Bruce, who couldn't help but stray away from her attention, "...I had hoped at least you saw that Bruce."

"...Sometimes with things you've done in the past," his eyes had to look back at her now, no point of avoiding it, "It's hard to see the good in you."

"...You're no different Bruce."

"...I know... Which is why going to you that day," he walked towards her, "Asking you to be by my side...Asking for your power, everything, because I finally saw what you always saw with your father?" two were face to face, only unnerving Selina and Alfred in the background just a bit, "I'm always glad you rejected me," he then turn to Selina, "Because I would've never gone back to her, or anyone, or even this home my parent's build for me," he gesture to the manor.

Selina felt uncomfortable, she doesn't normally get that feeling, but with everything going on was allowing those uncomfortable feelings. Especially hearing something that Bruce never quite told her.

And she herself doesn't know how to process it, 'All this...All this shit going on...It's why I just wanted to stay away and keep Bruce out of it...But no, we're right back to the center, and I don't know what the fuck to do to keep everything and everyone in order….And now this…? To hear Bruce go further into something he briefly mentioned…and how..I could've lost him…?'

Right now, Selina feels overwhelmed by everything that she can't provide, and the fact all it could've taken was one yes from Talia, and she would've lost her husband "I...Need some air.." Selina went to leave the manor.

"Selina!"

Bruce followed her and went to grab her hands, but she easily deflected away. It did stop her from leaving momentarily as they looked at each other, both sorrowfully and quite lost to what to even do next, "...Look Bruce, I can't be here right now as much as I want too. I don't know what I'm supposed to do here, or how to even help out where I feel I'm not exactly needed…" She then looked away, "...I know it was a year ago, I know you were different compare to now…But hearing that…"

"Selina I-"

"I know," Selina put her hand on his chest, "I know you need me, I know that things would've been very different if Talia said yes… But right now...I gotta figure out what I need to do to be here. I may be married to you, to be Misses Kyle Wayne? But at heart I know things change so much that if I'm really gonna come back to this life, not only to help you, but to help the whole family again? I need to figure out what I need to do to get to that mindset again," Bruce was left speechless, because he didn't know Selina felt this way. But he felt ashamed that he's been so focused on everything that he hasn't been there for his wife, and now he's realizing how selfish he's been to her, really selfish, "I was a thief, a survivor, that's all I ever knew. So when I quit for something...Normal? To help people? I had to not be in that mindset anymore," Selina looked away, consciously rubbing her throat that had the linear scar, "It's probably why I was almost killed by Joker and its likely why I could've lost you...I wasn't there mentally, and so I didn't land on my feet as I should've. Just...Give me time," she patted his chest, "Focus on rebuilding your relationship with everyone, including..." She sighs, "Talia."

"...Ok," was the only answer Bruce could give. Odd, because he deserves to give a better response than an affirmative one; Like maybe I love you, I'm sorry, I want to do better. Something along the lines that should have meaning, but Bruce held back. Because he now notices how selfish he really has been to Selina, who sacrificed so much to at least get his mind on a better track. She doesn't deserve simple words with no meanings. She deserves the world and everything with meaning.

One meaning in particular he wants to work on is the love and the apology part, because he owes so much to her, and everyone. Selina would kiss him on the cheek, departing through the door where he now saw Dick coming along, dumbfounded with how Selina only told him a simple hi, but no energy to it, "What's with her?" He asked, gesturing to Selina who was getting into Bruce's car, "Must've missed a lot then right?"

"Where were you?" Bruce asked, straight to the point.

"Getting more research about Ravencroft with the help of Vic. I think I'll get Koriand'r to help out when she's able to come back on earth. Which is soon, actually," Bruce could only nod, but he still stood by the doorway blocking his path, "So uh…Can I come in?"

"Why did you turn off your locator? Cassandra could have used you at the Trigate bridge," Bruce said, pushing the subject of Dick's absence.

"I heard, and I'm sorry that I wasn't there but like I said-"

"Dick," Bruce glared at his first adoptive son, "Don't lie to me."

"About what?! What do I have to lie about?!" Bruce didn't answer, watching Dick, studying Dick, seeing the lie's coming forth that he doesn't even bother trying to hide, "Ok so I went to check on BludHaven since it's been awhile! Place is still kind of fucked but at least it's getting better! Happy?!"

He saw he wasn't lying, but even with the truth, their hole's in it. So Bruce grunted and let him in the manor. They had more important things to work on then argue.

---

"SHIT!"

"WE NE-"

"Stay calm! Hold the line for the Knight!"

"Right brother!"

In the midst of shooting, various howls of pain of members of the Knights of the sun getting hurt, or the bodies that drop from everywhere; whether it be the ground, top of an old subway cart, ledges, railings, Jason was taking care of his own business that involve the Arkham Knight forces.

Right now he was hiding behind a cover from the Knight's army, multiple of the soldier's we're trying to find him as he reload dual pistol, and the assault rifle he had on him, "Fuck me," one of the bullet's in Jason rifle was jamming its mechanism that he had to force the bullet it in for it to properly be reload. Meanwhile, he can hear the Knight's of the sun member's talking amongst them.

"Look at this! He's picking us off one by one!"

"The Knight said he and his Bat partner's would do something like this."

"No but this is different, he's not picking us off one by one, the guy is a maniac just like us. But only going gun's blazing!"

"This isn't good."

"No, no it's not."

"We can't help them! They're dead, and we'll be next if we don't take care of Red hood! Now move."

Just before Jason was gonna move, a member dropped right near him, causing him to shoot his rifle at him in the body. The bullet for his rifle hit the armor parts, but pushed him back to create distance, "Inside the train cart! Eyes on Red hood!" Jason heard a grenade being used to get him out of cover. A well sound idea to make him move out of his position, but Jason is no noob when it came to the art of his own type of warfare. The second he saw the grenade come into view, he caught it, headbutted the guy in front of him, and tossed him the grenade in confusion.

It exploded, killing him, but Jason had no time to inject some type of dark comedy to it as he kept moving through the train car, avoiding bullets being fired at. His helmet visor was signaling him that the small army was gonna circle him in the train cart if he didn't think of a way out of this. He took note of a nearby grate outside of the train yard, and just when multiple guns would begin firing in his direction, he launched out the window, breaking the old glass, crossing his arm to roll, and then quickly lifted up the gate and stayed low as he kept moving. Jason moved with such speed, nimbleness, and silence for a guy that was almost as tall as Bruce, but had on set of clothing, armor, and weapons that didn't hinder his quietness.

"Where'd he go? He just vanished!"

"Stay sharp and focus sister."

"Focus?! Hard to focus when I can't see or hear him!"

"Then we must do better if we have any hope of taking care of him!"

As Jason was moving to another location, someone broke through the grate and grabbed him behind his neck. He went to shoot this person with his rifle but they stopped him from getting a shot at him. This person snatched his gun away and tossed it aside, "Shit!" He was then lifted up over their heads and quickly tossed into a wooden wall, breaking it and being pushed into an enclosed room with no ounce of space to move elsewhere beside forward. He wasn't alone as the same rather large man, hooded, mask, armor like every Knight of the sun member, but had gauntlets with blades on them. Jason got up, groaning just a bit, "God damn...What do they feed you loser's?"

Not answering, and moving closer to him as he swiped his blade on one another, creating sparks and sharpening them, "Red Hood corner…" He told his comrades.

Jason shook off the impact, the large man went to stab his forehead with his blade, but Jason's head moved out of the way, and performed an aerial flip over him, "Blades huh?" Jason was faster, weaving away from the bullets that started shrouding his position. He could've very easily whipped out his pistols and shoot at the weak points his visor pointed out, but then that would've been too easy.

This was supposed to be a challenge, especially when he isn't sober. He already had his fun with guns, now it was time to change up the line up. Having just enough time to pull out a blade behind his back, he parries the larger man's attack so he can swing another sword out to his direction. The taller, heavy man was able to block it, but didn't expect the shoulder bash to push him right back to where his comrades tried to surround Jason. With his two bleeding red swords now in hand, Jason didn't fear them, didn't fear their weapons, or how many were left standing, 'There's only one person I can ever be fearful of, but he's all but dead anyhow.'

Before any of them could start shooting, Jason moved with swiftness none had dared to go up against. Quickly faking a slice for the giant man so he can slide under the huge gap his legs provided, he quickly spun thanks to his knee paddings that allowed his sword to slice two of the Knight forces legs off before running forward to slice the other two members of the Knight heads off.

He quickly kept moving, and just because they were trained to take someone of his caliber on, didn't mean that most were trained to mentally be prepared for what he's gonna do, "Oh fuck!"

"He cut their legs and heads off in one motion!"

"JUST SHOOT THE BASTARD! HE'S ONE MAN!"

"ONE MAN THAT WAS TRAINED BY BATMAN AND THE DEMON HEAD!"

Running from bullets or arrows coming his way, he stumbled on his footing, "Oh crap!" he rolled, recovered and kept moving, "Good ole alcohol kicking in! Making my fight here a hell of a lot more interesting," he muttered to himself as he used two sides of the train cars to flip himself on top of the cart.

He stabs a person in their chest, sword being strong enough to penetrate their armor compared to his guns he had on him. He would then use that body as a shield, letting his partners shoot and maim him. Aware of his surroundings, Jason plops his sword right into the person's jaw line when they try to strike from above the gargoyle they were on. Taking out his sword, and again moving with both the effects of alcohol and yet his own swiftness, he killed more and more Knights of the sun.

Up above, down below, all while trying his damnedest to keep his balance. He didn't even notice the amount of arrows sticking behind him, or the blood from the countless soldiers he's killed. The drunkenness, armor, and adrenaline made him unaware of anything so long as he could move and kill.

"I CAN'T GET A LOCK ON HIM!"

"HE'S OU-UGH!"

"WE NEED BA-GAH!"

"OH SHIT! COME ON YOU FUUGHHH!"

No one stood a chance against Jason, no one stood a chance against a drunken Jason, and no one would've lasted a second if he kept using his guns to kill them all. Jason learned from the best of the best, and it allowed him to become a very deadly mercenary in his own right.

The giant man would again have his moment to fight him, seeing as now, he was the only one left. He tried tackling him, but Jason was elusive, maneuvering his legs and body quickly to be on top of him, before crashing his two swords on top of his head, ending his life in an instant. With that done, that meant the body would slowly allowing it to fall, "Oh fuck!" Jason didn't have time to jump off as he crash landed on the edge of metal railing, landing face first on the track. His helmet protected him from the impact, but if he was being honest with himself, the fight took a lot out of him. The alcohol gave him an extra high, along with adrenaline pumping from the gunshots and fighting, knowing his life is on the line, that every move must be accurate, and that everything is just a bit harder without a stable equilibrium.

Yet that's how his living has been for a year; drinking, fighting, and getting a high off it. Nothing more and nothing less, because that's who Jason sees himself as.

A stark comparison of what he used to be in his teenage years before he was killed, "...Nothing like having a high..ohhh..." He moaned of the pain he was feeling when getting up. First thing first was take out the number of arrows lunged into his back that his armor protected, "...A high that can't be found anywhere else," With majority arrows gone or broken thanks to his sword being of use, he put them and went to go find his rifle. He walked over to the body without care and the world, "No," he kicked some of the guns away, rummaging through pile upon pile of rifles, "No. Nah. Hell no. Ah," he found his assault rifle, the only way he knew it was his, was that there was a red symbol similar to his chest sprayed on his it, "There you are!" He put it behind him, proceeding to stretch his body that cracked his joints, "Ok now let's see..." Jason put his hand on his waist, proceeding to count how many of the Knight of the sun's he had killed, "One, two, three...10...20...30..." Each of these people's bodies lay everywhere and anywhere; some were in the old train carts because the area Jason was in an abandoned subway station that hasn't been of use for years. Some were on top of the train carts, some were hanging by their necks on the gargoyles, others bodies were shred to pieces or blown up in violent ways .

In general, Jason showed no mercy to the Knights of the sun, "30 people covering an old subway station that's supposed to be a remodel of Jezebel center. Yet somehow, it's left to these people," Jason sighed, pulling a flask from the inside of his white coat, and deactivating part of his helmet with the tap of it on the side of his chin to drink it, "...God I hate Gotham still. This place couldn't have been closed so suddenly, and not without people noticing like the gang here. Someone must've bullshit it to make it look like it was being reworked.."

Covering his entire face once more and putting his flask away, he moved forward to continue his search for the Arkham Knight and his army. The locator to the base was shown in his mini map through his helmet. Through the naked eye, he won't always find what he needs, but the usage of technology allowed him to showcase footprints that led to what is supposed to be a door of sorts.

But it was hidden by usage of tech that made it invisible, "Bingo," seeing where the circuitry starts from, coming right down to concrete wall, both his hands touch it, push and moved up where it revealed a fingerprint scanner, "Well, got so many bodies to choose from," nearby, he took a dead Knight in the sun hand lay it on the scanner, "I'll choose this one!" But he then frowned, as the door didn't open.

What happened next was Jason frustratingly repeatedly using each and every part of this person's body as he assumed it wasn't a simple fingerprint, but it wasn't the case. He smashed their other hands, "Come on…" then their heads, "Come on!" shoulder, back, legs, even took off their boots for their feet's, "For fuck sakes!" He additionally picks them up over their head, and tosses them at the scanner, nothing still works.

Except when the person impacted, blood spilled on the fingerprint scanner, and in doing so slid the door open, "...Probably should've done that from the start," he shook his head and kept moving.

The next area was different then Jason could've predicted as he had to maneuver floods of water along with broken down old architectures, resembling homes, buildings, and stores that seemed to be lost to both time and civilization, 'Hm… These buildings, places, all seem familiar but unrecognizable at the same time,' Jason had to jump, climb, use ledges to cross the paths of these broken down buildings. The grapnel gun he had on his gauntlet also allowed him to swing across large body waters if need be. He could see the building he entered looked to be a library of sorts, filled with books that were old, wooden cabinets that are held for its time, and even the lights in the chamber looked to be built with an old fashion sense.

Just out of curiosity, Jason took one of the books to see if he could do anything, but opening it only revealed how yellow it was, noting the fact that this book was made ages ago to the point no words could be seen. Yet Jason lived in the 21st century where technology can be used to open up the past. Switching visor with a push of a button, he used a unique uv light to broaden up was hidden.

Behind his helmet, Jason's eyebrow slowly raised at the prospect of the book detailing the city that was once called Wonder City, 'What the hell? This was Wonder City…? I remember in his babbling words when getting to know him, Tim mentioned that Bruce discovered this when the former Mayor Sharp designated Old Gotham and North Gotham as a whole prison, dubbing it Arkham City when he felt the Asylum wasn't enough. Didn't help doing more research, it was sometime after Gotham was able to recover from not only the earthquake, but also the no man's land incident about almost 6 years ago,' Jason closed the book and put it back on the shelf, 'A year before I made my presence known to any of them. Best of all, Ra's made his mark in this area too, and therefore Talia and her league of assassins too had a base here. Maybe that's where the Knight holds up, in their old lair. But that's impossible since Peter and Bruce were able to destroy it.'

Jason would keep walking forward, again, switching visor in his helmet to make sure there weren't any traps. While it was clear before proceeding forward, he made sure to pull out his hand gun, equip a silencer, and shoot a circuit for a security protocol that would've likely triggered an alarm.

It also helped that the metallic door opened up easily too.

Entering the new area. He stood in slight shock to find an army, working under Gotham, working in the oldest parts of Gotham, working in Wonder City of all places, to go to war. Jason saw an army that was larger, more larger than he thought, working on fighting, weapons, vehicles, all having the space, the laboratory to do what they needed to be done, and there were likely more area's that just had more stuff going on then he would find. The Knight forces made due with an old area, and Jason took the many people that use their architecture minds to keep the place stable with newer metal that complied with the old bricks and steel this place was once made.

Jason too noticed that there was an elevator at the center, but it seemed to dismantle, and was changed as a more movable placement that moved things or people horizontally down to the far deeper area's in what was Wonder city. From afar, Jason can see multiple vehicle's being of use, multiple vehicles being tested, it didn't matter if it was land, sea, or air, they had it, and they were gonna use against Gotham's heroes'

Jason knew he was going into the lion's den, but he didn't think the lion's den was something that can mawl him up since he lacks the kind of power to combat them all at once, "Well fuck me," he muttered to himself. He crouches low, observing everything before him, equipping both hand guns, the end of one gun transforming while the other gun is able to attach onto it, forming a sniper rifle that wasn't as powerful as the one in Trigate bridge, but it would get the job done once he finds the Arkham Knight.

Yet, that wouldn't be the case as a large sound came aloud in the facility, one that got everyone on edge. Jason heard a nearby footstep, and turned to shoot at it, but wasn't sure if he did as he pushed himself off the edge to avoid getting himself killed by their pistol aiming into the back of his head. He fell on top of a vehicle, right into the fold of the Knight army. And it didn't help that everyone had their guns quickly aim on him, arrows pointing to him, and hand to hand weapons equip and ready to take him out if necessary, "You wanna kill me, then take your best fucking shot!" Jason shouted, ready to try to disappear out of this fight, but kill as many as he could. But his reaction time wasn't as great as it should be. A person came running, leaping from a balcony, and dropped kicking him to the ground. And then their boots trample on top of his helmet, stopping him from getting up,"Gah…This is why I don't do the bitch dirty work…" Jason again mutters to himself.

But they heard, The Arkham Knight heard his mutter and that got them to snicker as their arms rested on their knees, applying pressure on top of Jason's head, "Shouldn't have taken up her offer Red hood. But! It's an honor to meet your acquaintance."

Jason pushes himself up to get a good look at the Knight, "This is how you greet all your intruders?"

Again, they snickered, letting their feet go off their heads, snapping their fingers that ordered their army to pick him up and hold him up on his knees, "Only the one's I'm fascinated in!" They said with a hint of excitement in their voice.

"How'd you know who hired me?" Jason asked, not hiding the fact it was Talia that gave him the mission to off the Knight.

"You two have a working history," They said when crouching low on Jason level to talk to them, "If I recall," They pulled out one finger, "You were a nobody," then a second a finger, "Batman found you and made you into a Robin," They pulled out another finger, "You then die by the clown prince of crime 7 years ago," pulled out the fourth finger, "Was then resurrected by the Al Ghul," pulled out last finger, "And spent the next 3-4 years becoming who you are now, making yourself known to Gotham and the Bat family," they then clap their hands together, pointing at Jason, "Redhood!"

Jason growls, struggling in the army grasp, but due to his slight drunkenness, getting drop kick, and a bit of his fight earlier, he won't lie how beat he was at the moment to pull anything out of his ass, "..Very few know about me like that..."

"When it comes to him, the Batman? I make a note to know every little thing about him."

"Huh…Cryptic, but oh so serious. So you're what? Just another person doing a whole motif thing because you hate him or something?"

Again, the Knight snicker, "Not exactly hate, but more so… I feel he," the Knight open their hands for an invisible person, that being Dimitri who tried to kill Jason seconds ago, handed them a knife, "Or the other Bat family, just need a wake up call of chaos," they played with knife, spinning it around their fingers, "I mean come on! Ever since Joker died it's been too easy for you people," The Knight then stabbed Jason where his suit was more vulnerable, right under the armor and close to the right by his pelvis area, causing him to moan in pain. It was supposed to be somewhere that most people wouldn't shoot, but somehow the Knight knew, "I mean all of you were scattered, nothing like the family you once were! Batman left it to a newer Bat! Robin and his Bat ran away!" the Knight twisted the knife, "Nightwing was all but destroyed spectacularly!" They twist the knife more, "The cat was all but retired, and the less that is said about the miserable Spider the better," the pain of how much the knife was twisting more into Jason had his hand clutched tightly when dealing with the agony of the pain, "I hate that fucker to a T, but oh! You ran away too! Being so scared of the father that raised you that you couldn't dare to kill him yourself! Not many know what happened to you all, most don't care since Gotham had the Bat and the Spider to protect them. And it all the more may life in Gothammmmm...Boring. Thankfully, Carnage and I, while not working together, knows Gotham needs a wake up call an-"

Before the Knight could finish what they were saying, Jason slammed their head where they're nose was supposed to be, but it only made the army put him in a choke hold and remove them away from the Knight. The Knight was knocked back, shaking off the head butt, the Knight stood over Jason waiting for his anger to spiral out, "Just…ANOTHER BAT SHIT INSANE MANIAC WHO BELONGS SIX FEET UNDER!" Jason yelled out, his strength being able to remove himself from the choke hold briefly to shout out what he wanted to say. Doesn't matter if he wasn't close to any of them, no one threatens his family in front of him without getting fucked up, "YOU THINK YOU WILL LAY A FINGER ON THEM?! OR ANYONE?! NOT WHEN I'M HERE! I'LL WIPE YOU OFF THE FACE OF THE EARTH! WATCH ME YOU SON OF A BITCH! WATCH ME!"

The Knight snicker loudly and mockingly at Jason's fistful rage having no bound to it. The army released the hold of Jason by the Knight's command, and in response, struck Jason with a knee and strangled him themselves. All the more giggling in the process of it all, "You can try! You all can try to put me and everyone here away! But you won't!" The Knight pushes themselves closer to Jason, "Because in the end...You need us just as much we need you."

Somehow, someway, Jason felt like he heard that song before, the laughter, and the utter fact that they're alive because of them, and that they rise because of them. It almost for a second, felt like Joker was back and taunting him.

But he couldn't say or do nothing with consciousness taking him away due to the Knight strong grasp of their neck

---

Several month's before Thanksgiving

Switzerland

The clock was ticking. Clad in his older spandex costume, the younger Peter was sitting behind Bruce as they were speeding to a designation in break necking speed by Bruce's own snowmobile. At this time, Bruce was younger, still the Batman who was quipped something akin to Cassandra's later design and what he wore before retired, but had a vintage look with the costume and cape own layers being cyan in color, and the suit being gray with the Bat symbol and utility belt being yellow and black.

Bruce's snowmobile launched over a hill, landing with a thud as it came moving and speeding past abandoned buildings in the snowy continent that was Switzerland, "GO FASTER!" Peter shouted with aggravation, his hands grip that back seat since he his wall crawling abilities allowed him to stick on Bruce transportation with ease even if was snowing, "WE CAN'T LET HIM DOWN!"

"Calm down Peter! We'll make it!" Even as he tried to sound calm, his voice failed him as he was shaking with fear of why they must reach there in time. Because Switzerland buildings are both abandoned, broken down, and not enough for it to be stable enough to web swing, Peter had to stick with Bruce no matter if he's indifferent about it. Bruce kept his eyes forward, but also monitored the gps to keep a steady track and pace to where he's going, "We're closing in on Jason less than 5 minutes!"

"I CAN'T STAY CALM BRUCE! BASTARD SHOT BARBARA IN THE SPINE AND SHE CAN'T WALK! TORTURE HER FATHER WITH FOOTAGES OF WHAT HE DID! AND NOW HE HAS JASON! I SHOULD'VE BEEN THERE TO STOP HIM FROM GOING AFTER HIM!" Peter yelled out, his anger not being quelled as he blamed himself for all that had transpired, "IF GWEN AND I WASN'T STUCK IN BRAZIL BECAUSE OF MY FIGHT WITH THE SINISTER SIX! I WOULD'VE BEEN THERE TO STOP ALL THAT!"

Bruce can tell where his voice was traveling on, where that voice always leads when he knows he should be responsible for the people around him, "Don't blame yourself for a situation out of your control! If there's anyone to blame, it should've been me! I should've prepared for days like this but I've gotten soft with the people I have around me...!"

Now it was Peter's turn to understand where he's going, where that voice was traveling, where Peter can tell the hidden anger of true vengeance wanting to be unleashed, "Doesn't matter Bruce!" He still shouted, but not as loudly as before. Bruce punched the afterburner to allow the snowmobile to push past its speed limit, he held the button all the way forward and not wanting to stop no matter if the engine said otherwise, "We both should've done better! If we had at least monitored Jason before he ended up disappearing here in search of his mother, then we might've been able to stop him from going after the clown! But then he found out the ties he had with her, that all the shit Joker did to the Gordon's was for this very moment he wanted to have! WE BOTH SHOULD'VE BEEN BETTER BRUCE! NOT JUST YOU, BUT ME!"

Bruce's teeth grind as he edges closer and closer to Jason's location, "GOTHAM AND ITS PEOPLE ARE MY RESPONSIBILITY PETER!" Bruce said, letting her anger out with all that has occurred in the span of days.

"THEY'RE MINE TOO BRUCE! EVERYONE THERE IS MY RESPONSIBILITY TOO!"

"YOU AND EVERYONE DESERVE BETTER!"

"IT'S NOT UP TO YOU! AND YOU KNOW THIS!"

They reached closer, the snowmobile started to malfunction from the usage of the afterburner, causing both heroes' to leapt off from it with Peter using more of his strength to further the distance. Landing on the snowy ground, and seeing an abandoned warehouse up ahead, Peter didn't wait for Bruce, and kept jumping, pushing his tired legs, tired calves to the absolute limit, 'Doesn't matter...If I hadn't slept for damn well 5 days...' Peter threw out a webline, stupid as he thought, he fell into the snow but quickly pushed himself off the spring himself forward, 'Almost there...! I'm coming J...' The snow was so deep that it made it hard for Peter to maneuver, but again, he kept moving forward till he reached the front of the warehouse. He dashed forward to the entrance, and with the touch of his hand, his strength removed the door with ease, and behind his own mask, Peter's eyes couldn't help but widen.

Not at the broken, beaten up form that was Jason in his Robin suit, or the fact that a woman lay near him, dead, but smiling in death that looks to be Joker's, likely Jason's mother. But behind Jason, was a bomb that was at three second before it could blow up. Jason had time to look upon his friend; the friend that he hated, the friend that annoyed him every since they met one another, but the friend that was there for him, the kind of friend that introduce him more of what the outside world looks like, the best friend he could ever ask for that was a brother more than anything.

Jason smiled that even if it was the end for him, he was happy to know his brother never once left him alone, that he was here, and he tried to save him. He couldn't have asked for a better friend to call a brother at the end of the day, "JASON!"

Peter's instinct was to rush in, not thinking about his webbing, just rushing in to save Jason. Yet the warehouse blew up and the blast sent Peter flying away. Briefly he was unconscious when being in mid air, the fatigue, the aches and bruises he feels from dealing with the sinister six, and now the blast did a number on his consciousness. But upon landing on the hard snowy ground, his consciousness awakened. Peter grunted, huffing and puffing as he now felt how much damage the blast did to him. His suit was burning, and the snow was helping with it. Seeing the warehouse on fire and blown to pieces, Peter gasped as he pushed himself off the ground quickly, "JASON!" He pounced with all his might, with all the energy he had forward. Coming back to the warehouse, he saw Bruce made it, and it seems he also took a bit of the blast but not as much as him. He was busy moving the debris and rubble to find him. Peter did the same, moving quicker, tossing whatever obstacle was in the way with added aggression, he ignored the pain that kept traveling around his body, groaning and moaning, stopping for a second, and going back to it.

He didn't care, he wanted to find his brother through this destruction. He wanted to hope, believe, that he was somehow alive. Yet, it didn't take them long to find him, as Bruce raised a plank of wood off him. With his mask torn and showing part of his face, Peter lips quiver, just as Bruce cowl didn't hide his eyebrow lower, nor the deep sadness and frown upon seeing Jason, "No..." Bruce went to hold Jason. He didn't need to check his pulse, his heart, he could see he's dead just from his dead eyes that used to hold passion, anger, but also happiness and hopefulness. Somehow, his small smile was still on his face as Bruce buried his head into Jason, "...You didn't deserve this...I should've done better..." He silently told the now dead Robin.

Meanwhile, Peter kneels to the ground near Jason, his mouth left opening, tears falling down his eyelids quick as it came. Peter's voice whimpered, he couldn't stop the tears, he couldn't stop wallowing as his distress began growing higher, "No...No...No...!" He couldn't even look away from Jason, he couldn't dare believe that he let him down, he didn't know what to do but to keep crying as amongst the snow, and fire that was left by the explosion, two heroes' held their dead partner, their dead friend, and their dead family member, "...I can't lose you too Jay...Not you too...I SHOULD'VE BEEN HERE FOR YOU DAMN IT!"

Peter howl, howl of not being able to save another person. What hurt the most was that compared to his uncle, and even the countless lives he failed to save, what's worse is that he was close to saving Jason, and it hurt more because he too was someone that meant the world to him. The only thing Bruce could do as Peter screamed and cried out his own bleeding heart, was to use one of his arms to hold him close to him, as his other arm held onto his Robin. Peter tried to move away from him, but he couldn't and didn't fight it.

The Bat and the Spider comfort each other in one of their darkest periods.

Like before, the memory froze like a picture as the older Peter and Charlotte stare at the scene in front of them. Yet while Charlotte didn't look away, not one bit of all that happened to the young adult, Peter was different as he turned away from that traumatic moment. Charlotte didn't need him to say his reason, she easily knew why he did it, why he could no longer look upon this specific memory of not being able to save Jason, "You turn away now, you'll always turn away. You shut yourself off once more, you'll keep doing it again," she said, "How can you move on when you look away from these events Peter?"

Peter closed his eyes, tightening because he truly wanted to escape moments like this, "You don't get it Charlotte-"

"I actually do Peter," she easily cut him off, "I'm supp-"

He opens his eyes, turns to her, moves to her with a glaring expression, where anger erupts in front of Charlotte, "YOU DON'T GET THAT I LIVE THROUGH THIS MEMORY EVERY DAY CHARLOTTE!" He shouted at her, but she didn't flinch or back away from how furious Peter looked here. She saw him get like this, not just from the memories, the time they fought, but she saw where Peter for once let go of being a gentle kind soul, and turned to a raging soul that wants nothing more to run away from his problems than confront it. In his anger, Charlotte saw the memory changed, the webbing bending and twisting where behind Peter, was multiple threads of web that displayed just about a parentage of the failures he's been through as Spider-Man. Whether it being from someone he didn't know, someone he did know, someone close to him, or even the worst of enemies, Charlotte can see them, "THAT JUST LIKE EVERY OTHER TIME I FUCKING FAIL TO SAVE SOMEONE, THEY STAY IN MY HEAD. I DON'T CARE IF I HAD TO DEAL WITH THE FUCKING SINISTER SIX AT THE TIME! I DON'T CARE IF I HAD TO FIGHT THEM IN AN ENVIRONMENT THAT I DIDN'T KNOW OF, I COULD'VE DONE MORE!" taking a moment to collect himself, letting the anger go, looking back at the memory with a sad expression, "...If Gwen and I had been able to handle dealing with the sinister six faster...Then I could've save Jason, save him from what he is..."

Peter took a deep breath in and out. Just as the anger came, it went, and again, the sorrowness of the past came in full force. Charlotte move closer, letting her hand touch his shoulder, comforting him since he didn't shrug it away, "Your stronger than this Peter," his answer was a silent nod, "But you can't keep burying these feelings, these emotions, along with the past. It's why you're still here. all these untreated trauma? Is why you haven't awoken. You wanna be here, wanna experience the good yes, but also the bad, while the woman you love now aches for your return."

"...Almost like you're saying I'm doing this to die."

"But you don't want to live either."

"That's..." Peter's eyes drifted to the granddaughter of Madam Webb, wanting to reject it. And she didn't need to look at Peter to see his expression soften into realizing she had a point, "...That's true isn't it?" Charlotte didn't answer, and let him continue to figure out the puzzle in front of him, "...I'm a hypocrite," multiple webbing tied around each other, instead of threads of memory, the webbing created a single memory that was more recent. And this memory involved Peter and Cassandra's recent argument in the early part of November, "I told HER how she wasn't living when I myself haven't lived for sometime. She, like her mother, lives through battle, yearns for battle, and discovering that she has those same feelings as Shiva...Hurt me. Because...Because I couldn't do nothing to stop it from coming to fruition, or show Cassandra that she can have a normal life again," Peter took a step forward to this specific memory, allowing his hands to touch Cassandra face, who's cheek felt as soft as in reality, "...How could I ever hope to be a husband," he turn to Charlotte, "When I, myself, isn't looking to improve? To become stronger, better, and move forward from the past that holds me back," he concluded.

Charlotte didn't answer, but her small smirk said one thing, and that he was beginning to understand why he has to see the things he can't bear to see. The memories he himself always thinks about, and never could've moved past them. Peter took one more look at Cassandra as he let go of her, briefly touching his hands before sighing and nodding towards Charlotte.

The web around them started changing the environment. The landscape was changing due to Peter slowly but surely, letting his mind flood with the memories that need focusing, letting Charlotte guide him to what he needs to see, to learn how to live.

Peter felt his body and mind shift, and when he closed his eyes briefly, he already knew what was next for him to see once more.

---

Weeks after Jason death

Gotham

Peter was chasing this mad man, the clown prince of crime, that man that hurt, killed, so many people for the simple pleasure of chaos and to get Bruce's attention. After weeks of hiding, Peter finally found the clown and he had no reason to stop his chase. Joker tried running, shooting a rocket launcher at Peter, but Peter was faster, his spider sense keeping him on his toe, dodging each uncoordinated shot he tried to give out whenever he turned to shoot at Peter, "Oh! Itsy bitsy spider angry?! No quips?!" He quickly moved to cover to send out another rocket launcher his way, "HA! Nice change of pace if I do say so myself!"

"NOT THIS TIME CLOWN!" Peter web the rocket away from him when in mid air. He landed and pounced forward before Joker could even try to do something next. He tackles him through a window right into the docks of the East end side of Gotham. Joker howled in pain upon landing, while also suffering his hand from being broken that made him drop the rocket launcher. But the pain was transformed into the laughter, the sadistic laughter that pissed Peter off, "You laugh in pain just as you laugh in the pain of others," Peter thrust his forehead towards Jason nose, breaking it with ease, "Sicken," He clutched him by the collar of his purple vest, dodging the toxic liquid that squirt from a flower that was knitted on the left of his chest. Peter in response threw his fist at him, with blood splattering on his fist and costume, "I bet you laughed when you torture her father," he punches him again, "Showing him all the things you did to her after you crippled her," again his fist was thrown, "Hell! I bet you had fun hurting Robin after he went to try to save his mom," he punches him once more, this time allowing the blue part of his costume to be stain of blood, "THE MOTHER YOU KILLED, AND MADE HER DOUBLE CROSS HER OWN SON! I BET YOU GIGGLE, SNICKERED," Peter's punches weren't stopping, slowly making Joker face more bloody and pummeled, "KNOWING WE COULDN'T SAVE HIM! CAUSE YOU KNEW HE WAS ALWAYS ANGRY, AND ALL YOU NEEDED TO DO WAS SPARK IT BY HURTING THE PEOPLE HE WAS CLOSE TOO! BY GIVING HIM A FALSE PROMISE OF FAMILY! YOU SICK!" His own costume didn't hide his knuckles, ripping upon each punch, even his mask lenses were beginning to lose their white color due to Joker's blood spilling into Peter's costume, "SON OF A BITCH!"

Yet he still finds time to laugh, spit out blood upon Peter's mask, "Ha…Heh!...It was a blast….! And I would do it…Again…To see you like this Spider…"

"SHUT YOUR FUCKING MOUTH!" Peter then proceeded to strangle him, hearing him choke as he tried laughing. The saddest part was the grin was still on his face, and he didn't struggle to get out of his grip. It was like the Joker wanted Peter to break, to kill him, to make something he always fought against becoming, "I had enough of you twisted psychos hurting others because you can! It wouldn't matter if you die, at the very least, everyone would praise me for wiping scum like you off the face of the earth! And maybe they'll finally see me as a hero! MAYBE THE WORLD CAN FINALLY RESPECT ME FOR WHAT I'VE BEEN TRYING TO DO FOR 4 FUCKING YEARS!"

'But I won't,' Peter's head lifted up, hearing the comm's in his mask that was supposed to deactivate turn on by none other than Gwen, whose voice trickled in his ears with softness, care, and worriedness, 'You know killing him won't bring back Jason.'

"It'll stop more people from dying. You know that, he deserves it!" Peter said while still having his grip tighten around Joker's neck. The deeper part of him that was hearing choke, stifle, was satisfied that he was so close, right there, into killing him. It's a side that Peter had been dealing with ever since his uncle died, and the countless other civilians he could've saved if he was faster, stronger, smarter.

'Then he'll win," Now it was Barbara he heard. Hearing her voice lessened the grip on his neck as he didn't expect for Barbara to try to talk to him. He thought she was still sleeping, still recovering from what Joker did to her, but she was there, trying to persuade Peter into a path that was threading ever so slowly, 'No matter what, our job gets harder and harder with people like Joker. But we can't let them win, it's what makes us different from them! It's how we know at the end of the day, they won't win so long as we stay true to ourselves! You know this Peter! From what Bruce had been trying to instill in you, from what me, Dick, and the many other heroes' you met who try so much to help you to be the best version of who you are! Don't do this!'

Peter knows this, he knows all this, been told this dozen other times from various people, and various heroes. But how long will that last? How long can his mind stay sane on the notion that people like Joker are still alive, walking, and hurting more and more people. That no matter how many times he stops them and locks them away in prison, they'll break out and hurt more people again and again, "...He's hurt you….Embarrassed you at your weakest moments...! It's what made Robin hunt him down in the first place after he found his mother! None of this wouldn't have happened if he was dead! I can do it!" his grip began tightening again, by this point, Joker was unconscious and any further damage will only lead to his death, "Right now! He won't have to hurt anyone else! It doesn't matter what the world, or anyone would think! HE WON'T HAVE TO HURT PEOPLE ANYMORE!" Peter angrily screamed out, not trying to convince the people close to him, but more so himself that he deserves to die.

As his hand was quite ready to snap his neck, or even choke him further and further till his brain loses the necessary oxygen to keep going, a hand on his shoulder stopped him. Somehow, Bruce crept up to him without Peter being aware. With the focus being on Joker, Peter should've been aware he would show up here and now, "Then I'm guessing your uncle's killer deserves to die as well."

That statement Bruce said, shook Peter to his core, just enough for Peter's own hand to still be held around Joker's neck, but not enough to stop him from continually squeezing out the oxygen that keeps him alive, "...Even with all my powers, I should've been able to stop them, help everyone at anytime! Yet… People keep dying, and I can't save the people that matter….Matters more than me."

"We do what we can," Bruce said, his voice coming off delicate and considerate over what Peter is doing right now, "But we don't let who we are be overtaken by the people who are willing to destroy us. You kill Joker, he wins, simple as that. And that's why we have to be better, to show mercy, even when it'll be too damn easy to end them," Bruce stood near him, letting hands touch his shoulder for added comfort, "You and I get that, that if we let ourselves go down that road, we may never come back from it...I know it hurts, I know I want to do the same thing your thinking for what he did to Barbara and Jason, but then he wins..." Bruce crouched lower to Peter's position, "We may have our difference's Peter, we may not always see eye to eye, but we are the same...And in doing so, just as you've done for me without you knowing, I won't let you cross that line. Even if my opinion doesn't matter, think about Gwen, her father, and your Aunt's opinion. How would they feel knowing you did something just because you couldn't take it anymore?"

Upon hearing Bruce, upon listening to him, and upon thinking about the question he asked him, deep down, Peter knew he can't and won't do it. Beyond Gwen, her father and his Aunt May, he knows very well his Uncle wouldn't approve of him killing. It didn't matter how badly this monster in front of him deserve to die, because there's always another way than to kill the monsters that would willingly destroy innocent people's live, "...Fuck…" Peter finally let Joker go.

"You're doing the right thing Peter," Bruce said.

"...Then why doesn't it feel like it?" He asked him as he turned to him.

"Because that's what doing the right thing feels like, because it's the right thing to do. Even if...The easier option seems like a better choice."

Peter and Bruce stand before the unconscious Joker, both knowing that they can end his life right there and right now. But that's not what heroes' do, at the end of the day, they are who they are because there's always another option than killing.

But of course, that's what makes it so hard being a hero against those who only seek chaos and destruction.

Once more, the memory paused. Peter was on his knees, hands on the floor to steady himself. He was breathing heavily, tears falling, but he rub them away as he look back on the memory, "...Fuck..." Charlotte stood before him, knowing how difficult it is for Peter as they dive to the deeper unbeknownst trauma that Peter never had dealt with, "...If I killed him then and there, they wouldn't have suffer…Joker wouldn't have hurt them all, including Bruce…And that goes with all the people I fought. If I just..." Peter frowned, shook his head, "...I know...I know how easy it is...God damn this is...Hard..." he said when looking up at Charlotte.

"It's only gonna get harder as we reach another memory. Take your time to formulate what you see before you," She advised.

Peter steady his breathing, standing up, wiping more of the tears that were trying to trickle out of his eyelids, and had his eyes back on the memory, "...I thought we were gonna go back to beginning, with the death of my Uncle since it's where everything really started. Then I quickly realize I've made peace with that a long time ago. I know it wasn't...Entirely my fault, and I know in the past I blamed myself because I was selfish and decided to look the other way, thinking it wouldn't affect me in the long run. But it did, and took me time to come to terms with it, but I still let it fuel me to be on the path I'm on," he again look before the shorter women that stood near him, "Because I couldn't save my Uncle, i tried saving everyone, and when I didn't...It affected me. My own guilt would hurt me more than most things..."

Charlotte nodded at Peter looking deeper into himself, understanding the flaws of his nature, how his guilt transformed in a way to cause not only unnecessary trauma, but drive a wedge into making trauma more insufferable to handle, "Brace yourself now, your reaching the more hardest part of this journey."

Peter felt it, the memory that was forming, and he can already tell what memory he was going to put forth. He vividly felt he was swinging, holding someone in his arms for dear life, emotions high, Charlotte was digging deep into this memory. And part of him wanted to shut it off.

But he can't shut it off, not unless he wants to move on.

---

2 months after Thanksgiving

Peter swung as fast as he could to the nearest hospital in Old Gotham. It was supposed to be a good new year, a hopeful start to the new year, even Thanksgiving was for a hopeful beginning to the new year. But that wasn't the case for Peter, "Hang on Lieutenant Stacy!" In Peter's arm was a badly injured George Stacy as he swung through the snowy blizzard of Gotham. With how the blizzard was going, swinging was difficult as Peter had to be careful where he shot his webs with snow covering everywhere, and the webbing needed a proper material to stick on, "Damn blizzard! Of all times! We're almost there Stacy, just hang on!"

"No…" George groans in pain and coughed up blood from the damage he suffered. Peter might've been a block close to the hospital, but the wound was getting to the older man. He felt it, knew it, that the doctors wouldn't be able to stop the bleeding where his lung was at, "Peter…Stop."

"No! We're almost there," Peter made a sharp turn, eyes in the hospital right in front of him, "We're right here Lieutenant!"

"Please Peter…"

Peter looked upon the older man he held firmly around his waist to not hurt him as much when swinging. Yet looking at his dejected eyes, the eyes that told he didn't have much time, and Peter wanted to reject that, to not give up. But he's seeing those eyes many times, he sees that look knowing when a person is close to going to heaven, and it all the more breaks his heart to know he was losing someone he looked up to. He nodded, swinging to a nearby building and rested him by a brick wall, where he coughed up more blood from his punctured lung. He did a quick scan from his mask lens to see if there was anything he could do to at least stop the bleeding. But it looked grim since his lung was completely punctured, and soon enough.

George Stacy would die.

Peter felt his heart rate quicken, he felt himself panic, he didn't know what to do, or how to save him. He wanted to do everything he can to save him, but again, his own eyes saw what his brain didn't wanna listen to, his heart felt exactly what he should be feeling, while his body froze in shock at seeing that he was about to lose another person close to him, "Captain, save your strength!"

George chuckled as his eyes drooped from tiredness and blood loss, "Commissioner….You mean….You were just," he coughed up more blood, staining his officer clothing even more, "...Getting the hang of it," he joked with his breathing becoming harder and harder to do.

The odd sense of humor threw Peter off, but he found himself chuckling, "I was I swear... Gwen kept hitting me over the head for it," again George chuckled as Peter took off his mask to watch the father figure that looked after him when his uncle had passed, "George, the hospital is right there. Gwen would kill me if I don't get you there."

"You know…These wounds won't heal Peter," George spoke with honesty even in his dying moments. He emphasizes more of what he meant by tapping where his lung was at, bleeding through the webbing Peter applied before he swung him here, "Not in time…It's not your fault…" Peter would have objected, if George didn't stop him with his hand raised, "Don't. It's not. I'm a cop, I sign up…To put my life on the line for others…. No matter the time…Or day….And I would do it again to save that kid from getting hurt by Connors… Just… Be good to Gwen… Be…Be good to every…One."

George coughing got worse, his breathing got worse, and all Peter could do was hold his hand tightly as he watched him slowly fade from this earth, as he tried to hold back the tears from trickling out his eyelids, "George… Y-you…Can't go… Gwen needs you...!" George wanted to say more, to tell Peter more, "May needs you..! Dewolff needs you! Gordon needs you! Gotham needs you...! I NEED YOU!" The second he opened his mouth, it was his last. Peter waited for him to say something, anything. His mouth was left agape, and Peter was trying to be stronger than tears, "Stacy… Commissioner….Mr Stacy…!" he shook him like a toddler begging for their parents to wake up, but George didn't move to comfort Peter, "..George…? God…" Peter rested his head on George's shoulder, the tears began following non stop.

Peter once more failed to save someone close to him, "Please… God... Make it stop…. MAKE THE PAIN STOP PLEASE...!" Peter releases a cry so loud that the whole borough of Old Gotham can hear his pain, "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"

Peter was tired, tired of losing people he cared about, and tired of not being strong enough, fast enough, smart enough to save those that matter. In his depressing time, he asked himself how many more people have to die because of who he is, and not living up to the responsibility he swore for himself?

The blizzard stopped, the scream stopped, once more for the third time, the memory stayed in place. Charlotte kneeled on the floor while having Peter's head laid on her upper legs. Peter was clutching himself, clutching the pain the memories brought forth. Like his younger self, he was also crying and screaming the exact same words as his, "Make it stop...Please...God...Make the pain stop!"

Charlotte hands past through Peter's huge, fluffy, and straight brown hair. As he shriveled in pain, sadness from his trauma, Charlotte did her part to keep his mind from breaking, 'Stay strong...Don't break...We have to keep pushing. Come on Peter...Push through it, like all that you've been through,' She said to herself, readying her telepathic powers to put Peter through the final stretcher.

"No...No please!" Peter can feel his mind pulling into another memory, a memory he didn't want to go back to, a memory that plagues him that even he doesn't know, "I SUFFERED ENOUGH! I DON'T WANT TO GO BACK THERE!" He was resisting this time, the webbing that was supposed to tie itself together was breaking its strings. But because Charlotte was stronger in this realm, she pressed forward her powers.

Soon enough, the webs that broke, re tangled themselves, bringing forth the final memory Peter must undergo.

---

Few months after George Stacy's death.

Spring was coming along, with winter being left behind as the warmness slowly started to come to Gotham. Since Gwen's father's death, Peter Parker barely existed as he used to. What remained was Spider-Man. In doing so, he had forgone college this semester, the people around him, and his job just to make sure no one dies in his sight. He felt it was better to isolate himself from them, but also be around those that truly understand his world, and can help him where others can't. Which is why Peter swung to the clock tower so he could get some shut eye. After all that he's been through, Barbara was kind enough for him to come as he pleased. Barbara herself had tried to get Peter out of his spunk, but like others, no one was successful, not even Bruce who only made things worse. Peter found it strange that he of all people at one point used to preach that this job they're on, needs to be done by capable people, and oftentimes means they have to do it alone if they can't have the right people by their side.

It didn't help that even Bruce was still reeling from Jason's death, and had been looking over Peter like a hawk. To which, Peter hated as he's no other Bat, or Robin, he's Spider-Man, his own man, and not someone else's partner.

Peter drops down from the hatch that slid open. He landed with a silent thud as he took off his mask and slump on the couch to sleep for a bit before he went back to kicking people's asses. But sleep wouldn't happen since he felt the familiar tingling sensation altering him of something coming his way, he caught it before it could hit his own head. Feeling the object in hand, it felt like a notebook, he then opened his eyes where it squinted at why a book was thrown at him? Sitting up, he then quickly noticed Gwen was sitting by the computer where Oracle would usually be at. She sat forward, hands clutching together, cracking it as she eyed Peter with an expressionless gaze, "Hey," Peter said shortly.

Gwen frowned, eyes rolling as she then couldn't help but find it hilarious that's all he had to say to her, "Hey? You're kidding right? We're not kids for you to be retreading old ground to keep things short and simple," Peter frowned, not able to answer her because what was there to be said that she already didn't know? Because of his silence she scoffed and got up, having her arms crossed while now scowling at Peter, "Your Aunt is worried! Harry is worried! MJ's worried! Hell, what little of the Bat and his crew is left is worry about you!" She then sighed, letting her gaze soften as she stepped closer to Peter, looking down on him, understanding the frown he had on his face before lifting his chin up to make him look directly at her, "...I'm worried about you."

Lifting his head to where the light can properly reflect on Peter's face, she notices the bruises and the cuts his face had on him. She never likes seeing Peter get carless like this, let alone see him take these kinds of damages if he can't help it. Peter, knowing she was observing him and his condition, would then look away, letting her hands drift from his chin, "Don't, I'll be fine. Just need some rest if you don't mind."

Gwen's scowl came back on quickly. She would walk to where the elevator was, letting her stomp echo out in the clock tower as their conversation easily came to an end. But this was Gwen, she couldn't accept the fact of Peter being like this. Because this wasn't the first or the last he gets like this, and this just kept happening when he felt guilty of not being able to do his job the best he could, "You know what? It's always the same damn fucking thing with you!" While Gwen's back was turned, Peter eyebrow raised and looked at Gwen of what she meant by that, "Your not the only one that's suffering, that you feel useless, and pathetic of how much you want to help people," Gwen's hand clenched tightly, "But as always," Gwen turned, showcasing tears coming quickly down from her eyelids, ruining the bit of make up she had on her face, "YOUR SELFISH! BECAUSE YOU ALWAYS SEEM TO FORGET THAT OTHERS SUFFER TOO! NOT JUST YOU! YOU MAY HAVE POWERS, YOUR A SUPERHERO, BUT THAT DOESN'T MEAN IT GIVES YOU ANY RIGHT TO FEEL LIKE EVERYTHING IS ON YOU! BECAUSE IT'S NOT! I FUCKING HATE WHEN YOU DO THIS PETER! IT'S NOT FAIR FOR YOU AND ITS NOT FUCKING FAIR FOR ME! WE'RE SUPPOSED TO BE A TEAM REMEMBER?! WHY DO YOU ALWAYS DO THIS TO ME?! WHY DO YOU ALWAYS PUSH ME AWAY?!"

Peter stood up, his own gaze became sympathetic like at the fact she was right. In the time's like this, he can't help but let his own grief, regret, guiltiness, and failures get the best of him. It then allows him to forget those around him, who can or are getting affected by anything or everything just as much as him. He could've tried to hug her and tell her the things she might've wanted to hear, but he kept himself at a distance and bowed his head in shame, "...I know it's not fair for you to be dealing with that...Which is why, it's not fair for you to keep being around me..."

In the moment of silence, Gwen gathers her breathing before she can talk again. She can already feel her irritation flaring the second he opens his mouth, and it infuriates her to no end that he wanted to cut her off from his life, "...I'm here Peter, trying to be here for you… When I need it the most. I mean, my father died Peter, my only family member left had died Peter! And what you did afterwards…? Exactly what you're doing now, excluding me from your life just like everyone you care about," she said, stifling from the tears, but also wiping away them from her eyelids, "...And the worst part is your off somewhere being buddy buddy's with more heroes', leaving behind people like us that care more than those hero's combine! it's nice, nice to see you spreading your wings and allowing yourself to team up with other heroes', including Bruce, but at the expense of us Peter? Not just me, but your friends, work friends, and even your Aunt...?"

"Gwen it's not…" Peter again wanted to say something different, so his mind pulled back quickly and looked for a different avenue to say what he wanted to say, "...I just want to keep you all safe, and if it means distancing myself then…"

"Why are you listening to Bruce?" She shook her head, couldn't stand the thought of Peter finally sucking up to Batman of all people. She does admire him, but she knows even when they were younger, Peter never wanted to adhere to some of Bruce's advice that correlates to his dual identity. He wanted to be himself above all, and somehow maintain his life outside of Spider-Man, "You never listen to him unless it was necessary. To listen to him about keeping those who are civilians out of your life, but only keep people who can keep up with you relatively easy in your life? HOW DOES THAT MAKE SENSE PETER?!" She then shouted, not able to keep her emotions in line, "YOU DON'T HAVE TO BE ALONE IN THIS PETER! WE'RE NOT SOME GLASS THAT CAN JUST BREAK EASILY!"

"Because he has a point, Gwen!" He responded back, "Or had a point! You don't think he, Barbara, Alfred, and Dick tell me the same thing? That I shouldn't just keep you all at a distance? Because I'm so different where the people around me matter a lot, and they help keep me positive?! EVERYONE KEEPS TELLING ME I'M NOT BRUCE, HELL BRUCE TELLS ME I SHOULDN'T TRY TO BE LIKE THE OLD HIM! BUT IT SURE AS HELL FEELS LIKE I AM TRYING TO BE HIS OLD SELF HALF THE TIME."

"BUT YOUR NOT!"

"EVEN ALL OF THEM RECOGNIZES THE SIMILARITY BETWEEN BRUCE AND I! THESE DAYS HE TRIES TO MAKE SURE I DON'T END UP LIKE HIM FUNNY ENOUGH! BUT GUESS WHAT GWEN?! I DON'T HAVE CHOICE WHEN IT COMES TO THESE PEOPLE NEEDING TO BE STOP!" Peter vexed.

"WELL, IT'S BULLSHIT! LOOK AT THE TONS OF HERO'S OUTSIDE OF GOTHAM WHO HAVE TO SAVE THE PEOPLE THEY LOVE WITHOUT THE VILLAINS KNOWING THEIR IDENTITY! SUPERMAN IS A MAJOR ONE SINCE LOIS LANE ALWAYS TENDS TO GET KIDNAP!"

Peter felt his annoyance rising as he step closer to Gwen, "That's not fair since-"

"THEN TAKE INTO ACCOUNT OF THIS! ANYONE OF US COULD GET CAPTURE BY A VILLAIN AT ANY GIVING TIME! WE DON'T HAVE TO BE ASSOCIATED WITH YOU PETER! ALL IT TAKES FOR ONE BAD DAY AND POOF! THE VILLAINS HAS US AND IT'S UP TO YOU TO SAVE US! JUST SAY YOUR FUCKING SCARED THAT'LL YOU LOSE US AN-"

"I AM SCARED GWEN! I'M SO FUCKING SCARED I'LL LOSE YOU LIKE YOUR OWN FATHER THAT I FEEL LIKE I'M A CURSE THAT BRINGS MISFORTUNE TO EVERYONE I CARE ABOUT!" He said right into her face, close and personal, "And that's why I can't be near you, or anyone," he then pressed the elevator button for her, "I'm tired of losing everyone, and I have to be better. If I have to become what Bruce had become to be Batman, then so be it!"

Gwen could only stare at the profoundness of Peter's tired expression, the lack of sleep was noticeable, but also the sorrowfulness that poured out of his speech said how much he didn't want this. She can also tell that this was something he never wanted to tell her, that he wanted to adopt everything Bruce had become to be what he is. He felt it was the right move in turns of being a better hero, and Gwen could only respect what he thinks is right, even if it's not. Gwen sighed, she pushed hard and got nothing out of it but more bitterness and depression. She would then go into the elevator, letting the gate close as she had her hands in her hood pocket, "...Just another day for us huh? Peter and Gwen…"

With their argument dying down, the painful feeling of regret was coming through Peter. He wanted to take back everything he said, he wanted to hold Gwen again, to feel her body, to be comforted into her warmth, to be in blissful sleep with her nearby. But he can't, he can't go back if it meant letting weakness get the best of him, letting people close to him get hurt because of who he is, "Yeah…"

"...Just take care of yourself alright? We're not strangers and...We'll never be ok?"

Peter could only nod as Gwen would soon leave the clock tower, leaving Peter to sit back on the couch, and clutched his brown hair as he let the tears he held back flourish.

Unlike earlier, Peter once more stood on his feet as he watched the memory sit still in place. He tried hiding the grief, tried to hide the pain, tried to stop the tears from continuity falling from his eyelids, but even covering his face couldn't hide it, "I should've stopped her from leaving...Should've told her how much I love her...I shouldn't have been like how I was to her.." Charlotte would remove his hands from his face, allowing her to see how red his eyes was from the tears that couldn't stop falling down to his cheeks, "...God...She was always there for me, but I had a harder time being there for her...And she was right to call me selfish...And I'm being selfish again just by being here in the first place!" Charlotte can tell a very powerful memory was being tangled into fruition, one that involves the death of Gwen, "I thought I was being better, I thought I was being considerate, but no! Just like before, I was selfish, selfish into not being better for my Uncle, selfish into not being there for Gwen and everyone, selfish into thinking the whole world needs me. ALL I'VE EVER BEEN WAS SELFISH AND THE PEOPLE I LOVE," the memory came form, the bridge, the Goblin laughter, Peter screaming at Gwen, that day came about once more in front of Peter, "SUFFER!"

Charlotte quickly hugged him, toning down his emotions as she focused to shut off the memory, closing and blocking it with huge webbing till they were back into a white space filled with countless memories of Peter being who he is. They didn't say anything to one another for sometime, Peter held on to Charlotte desperately because he needed that support, a support he would've shrugged off and never bothered to ask.

For the first time in a long, Peter allowed someone to fully support his mental well being in the time he needed it the most. At some point, the tears stopped flowing, Peter's breathing became more normal, and in fact, he was becoming more calm as time passed on. Now instead of memories that the webs focus on his countless failures, the web changes and bends, showcasing newer, positive memories.

Charlotte can see the webbings around them, and the webbing they stood on, were the memories of the countless of people Peter save, the countless of memories that involved Peter spending time with the people he care about, and the countless of memories that involved Peter shining and enduring through the worst of the worst and showcase the hero he is. Charlotte couldn't help but smile upon seeing these memories, the kind of memories that shows Peter's true colors instead of the things that hold him back. Yet, a more powerful memory came forth that started tangling around them.

Charlotte knew what memory it was, but she was curious as to why Peter wanted to show it to her.

---

2 Years ago

The 25 year old Peter was celebrating Cassandra's 23 year old birthday, or more so, enjoying the after party as they spent time drinking on top of Bruce mansion. They were bundled up with clothing to keep them warm since it was the end of January and winter was already in full force as is, "Slow down Cass!" Peter chuckled as he and her were drinking a lot of alcohol.

Strong alcohol that involved rum of all things, "ITS GOOOOOOD!" Cassandra shouted, as she flushed and out right drunk as is.

Peter again chuckled at her enthusiastic outburst, his chuckle lasted quite long and loud due to him being drunk himself. There were a few empty bottles near them that they, or more specifically Peter drank to get himself to the level of drunk that Cassandra was at. Because while Cassandra was great in terms of fighting, she wasn't great at holding her weight when drinking, therefore, one bottle was enough to get her drunk Meanwhile, "Shhhhhuuu… You'll disturb Alfred, or maybe Selina and Bruce who are having…Round 10 of loving each other?" His laughing hollered out just as Cassandra did the same, "..Whooo knew they would last this long as a couple! 3 years and going! And getting married?! Whhhoooeee!" Peter took a shot of his own rum, "Proud of the Bat and the Cat that has a hat!"

"HERE HERE!" Cassandra drank some more rum before Peter took away the glass bottle and drank it all, "HEY! MINE!" Peter, still having his reflexes at super human level, was able to keep the bottle from reaching Cassandra hands as he drank it all. She pouted and had her arms crossed, "Meanie and greanie!"

Peter shakes his head as his loopside smile was on display, "Do not know what you mean, but you're good for the night! Your way too wasted right now and you have ballet practice in the morning," Cassandra answered with sticking her tongue out, causing Peter to stifle in a chuckle, "Too cute!"

In response, it got Cassandra to blush, feeling her heart skip a beat as she looked away to the half moon above them. It was nice to spend time with her family, but also Peter. It seemed he had become a lot happier overtime, 'No longer with those women. Felicia and Dick's girlfriend's sister...Bad for him,' She then frowns at thinking of a recent relationship he tried forming, 'Sad that Stargirl...Didn't work out. But, he's happy. I love him happy and not sad.'

Yet even so, he was happy now, getting a glimpse of him as she let her long hair blocked her glance indicated that his body and expression exemplified an elated feeling then the reverse. It could be because he's drunk, but she knows he still is aware of what's around him that he isn't too drunk. Cassandra hates his powers benefitting him in that department. But it didn't matter, she liked being loose, being fun, not being in control for once, and it was with someone she liked too most of all.

She loved being around Peter, his presence was always soothing, bright, warm, and relaxing. She can do anything with him by his side. And this allowed her to stand up, stand on the ledge and take a deep breath in and out, "I LOVE MY FAMILY! I LOVE EVERYTHING! EVERYONE! AND I WANT LOVE TOO!" She courageously shouted out loud.

Peter had his head tilt at the curious words Cassandra just said. He was also surprised by the lack of stutters and made a mental note that drunk Cassandra means talking Cassandra. She would bounce right to Peter, letting him catch her and have her back leaning against his as she snuggled into him. Peter wouldn't lie about how awkward but good he felt that Cassandra was doing this. Then again, he loves when a woman who was as attractive as Cassandra was to be this close to him. But he had to keep himself in check since he's rather drunk, and he can't step over any boundaries that would hurt their relationship, "Interesting choice of words," he mentioned.

"Love them all. Gave me home, family, meaning, and hope. You love them like I do?" She asked in return while looking behind him, "Never asked. Didn't want to. Now want too."

Peter found himself itching his cheek before he answered, "I would say nowadays things have become different, to the point you could say so. It wasn't always like that though, but…" He let his fingers play with her hair, "After...Losing a lot of good people in my life…Then dealing with a few people I used to know that are now resurrected, but aren't the same as they were. To then having my very own, complicated Spider family? So much things change in recent time that I can just flat out say that I do love them too. Bruce and I relationship is at a point of being good and respectable, Selina and I had been getting along so well.." He quickly frowned, "Didn't help it involved a certain other feline cat lady hurting the both of us, and then ditch town a while ago. Dick and I are always great," his smile at least came back, "Jason and I...Still have a lot to work on, but we're getting there...Very slowly. Tim and Steph? Boy, they're a pleasure to have around. I wasn't fond of Tim taking up Robin, but these days, he always seem to defy the expectation I had on him. And Stpeh is always a blast to have, and I'm really glad you and her become such good friends over the years. All in all...It's something what my former girlfriend would've wanted, this kind of change of pace to my relationship with what we are now calling it," he put his two fingers on head, shaping it like a Bat's pointy ear, "The Bat family," Cassandra giggle loudly at the added gesture, "Gwen would've wanted me to find this type of balance with the people I'm close to, to get myself in order to do better. She always wanted my relationship with Bruce of all people to get along, without losing myself in the process..She would be happy to see that I did it."

Peter felt Cassandra changing her position; deciding to turn to him, wrapping her own hand's with his, sitting cross leg on top of his own legs, but kept herself close to keep him comfortable. She wanted to look him directly in the eye when she wanted to say what she wanted to say as she detest when Peter gets sad, "She would be. Proud of who you are. But she wouldn't like you having sex with a lot of women!"

Peter cringes at the mention of his sex life, eye rolling and groaning, "It was only two toxic women!"

"Weren't good for you. Stargirl was better," she frowned, "But you saw too much of Gwen."

Peter found his lip becoming a thin line at the mention of Stargirl, "Yeah… I know. So what? You wanna be my dating manager or something?" He added a touch to a smile so he wouldn't be depressed at remembering how badly those relationships went down, "I mean if we go down the list, I've dealt with nothing but girl troubles. Felicia only love me being Spider-Man. Komanid'r love the idea of being with someone who reminded her of Dick, to which she's a dick for," Peter for once curing didn't stop Cassandra from laughing out loud, "Courtney is such a good person that I know we could've worked out but as you said somewhat right... I kind've treated like she was Gwen, and I couldn't separate the two. And there's Mary Jane Watson! Who you only met several or so times! I would love to go out with her, to date, to even god forsake, love her to the earth and mooonnnnn!" This little moment did not stop Cassandra from laughing, from Peter from laughing, "...But I can't! I can't do it when I can barley make time for her! Time for us! Hell! She's busy too! There's no way we can have something when we're both so busy with our life! And even then! I rather her have no tie's in Gotham! I want her to go out, be big, be a celebrity! Be all that she want's to do!" Peter would then suddenly went quite, the laughing stop, now it took a turn of a somber feeling if anything, "...I love her Cass I really do, for how much she's been there for me after Gwen's death, been there for me after Harry becoming the Goblin...And she love's me too," Peter shook his head, "But I can't be there for someone who also can't be there for me. Our path is...Diverging...And I don't want to affect her life and where she's going. So," he shrugs, "I don't know who I can be with, nor I don't know who I can maybe marry if it come's to it. My life is complicated as is, and I just...I don't know who can I let enter my life, or if they can stand it, or...Or..."

Cassandra Cain didn't know what she was thinking besides wanting to have Peter stop second guessing who to be with. She didn't want him to keep searching for countless women; whether normal, alien, or meta, she doesn't want him to do any of that and finding out he can't be with them for various reasons. Because of this conscious thought, she quickly kissed his lip. Her lip intersected with his, but Peter didn't react as she quickly pulled away, Her eyes widened, she froze, Cassandra couldn't believe she did that. Peter didn't say anything, nor move, or express anything after she did that.

But it was clear that Cassandra didn't want him to be with anyone, but her, "...Why me?" A simple question he couldn't help but ask.

If it was anyone else, they would call him dumb for that, but Cassandra was different. As her heart rate picked, as the first time she felt nervous, maybe even fear, Cassandra took just a moment to figure out why she had feelings for Peter. Inherently, it was simple, "You're interesting to observe. Interesting to look at. To hear. To speak. Everything about you is fascina..ting. You save people, fight people, yet also wish to do more, to be more, to never fail, but you have, and still move forward. You're good, truly good, I never been around a man like you..Who is just...Good. Nothing more and nothing less."

It was then Peter's turn to freeze in place, to stare into Cassandra calm basil eyes, to be moved by everything she said, by the fact she almost didn't stutter a single word, for her to be confident, and maybe scared of admitting something like this to him. A second past, and Peter felt reassured, he felt exactly like what Cassandra felt but he didn't want to say. As she explains in it to his language of words, he would then explain in it to her language of action.

Peter let go of her hands, cupped her cheeks, and pulled her close to him as he let his lips touch her. They gently press on to hers, as a way of asking for permission, and Cassandra lets him in.

She let all of him in.

Soon their kissing became more, added with moans, pleasure, and passion.

Soon their clothes were off, they felt how cold it was, but it only added to their excitement.

Soon Cassandra felt him inside of her.

And soon Peter, for once in a long time, felt lost in a woman who left him speechless and breathless.

In the end, the Bat and the Spider became entrances with one another. Not stopping their love for one another even if they're body was going numb due to the coldness.

Their passion for another came to a close, as the webbing tied the memory up, pushing it along with the rest of the memory. Peter stood under it, watching it with a smile as this was how his relationship with Cassandra started. And regardless whatever they're going through, he won't let her down by him making the same mistakes. He'll be better, because he has too. It meant he won't allow himself to die, to wither in the past, he knows there's still likely problems he has to resort to, but he wants to be stronger than ever.

Because now more than ever, he has more to lose if he doesn't get up. It's his responsibility to make sure the family he has now is kept in order, and he must do everything in his power to repair what's broken. He knows Cassandra can't do it alone, and he knows there's more relationships he needs fixing, but he must move forward.

He must wake up.

And Charlotte couldn't be more prouder at seeing the confidence Peter exuded in his stature once more. The confidence she fought against, and the confidence her grandmother always showed time and time again as reminders why he's the center of the web of destiny. Peter would take a deep breath in, closing his eyes and letting every memory tied to a web, a strand, a thread, come to a close as they all untangle and move right to Peter. Under Peter's feet, amongst the gray void they stood amongst, was a simple small webbing that was designed like his spider symbol on his costume. He opened his eyes, turning to Charlotte with a grateful smile still being on his face, "..Thanks for your help, Charlotte."

"I didn't do anything Peter. It was all you," she said.

"Ah shocks! Take all the credit please! I only got through it because of your therapy session," he mentioned while stretching his body.

"Then I'll start charging if that's the case."

"Soooo not fair if you're not charging the other Spider people!"

Her eyebrow raised, "Who says I'm not?" Peter was left dumbfounded, but she soon let out a laugh at his reaction, "Kidding, I'm here for all of you. It's part of being Madam Web."

Peter dumbfoundness quickly left, and his smile was presented once more, "Well, your grandmother would be proud of you."

"I sure hope so," Charlotte then gave a wave to Peter as she slowly disappeared from Peter's consciousness, seeing her work here was done for the time being, "You take care Peter, and remember, you're not alone anymore."

He nodded, "I know. There's still much that needs to be done."

"I'm always here. You know how to reach me."

Now it was Peter by himself, "That I do… I'm not alone, not anymore. It's something you always tried to teach me Gwen, and it's something you always wanted me to see Aunt May," he looked upon his hands as he felt himself awaking, "I'm sorry it took so long," he clutched his hands, "But I'm gonna be a whole lot stronger from here on out."

---

Peter would finally awake back into reality, gasping for breath, sitting up straight as fast he did, shocking Cassandra.

He needed a moment to catch his breath, but he couldn't when Cassandra quickly hugged him and then kissed him with force that no normal person could withstand, "Can't…Breath…" Cassandra giggled as he again was still gathering his breath, and can see Barbara was now staring at them, being happy that Peter was finally awake and Cassandra was happy to have him by her side, "H-how was long I was out for?"

"A week and a half."

"WHAT!"

End of II

Chapter 15: Its never that simple

Act III: It's what we do

After a week and a half in a comatose state, Peter was back on his feet. Cassandra was happy, Dick was ecstatic that he gave him a bear hug, Barbara laughed at it all, Alfred brewed him some fresh tea and supplied him with food that he so desperately wanted. And Bruce, while stoic since his mind was still focused on Selina, was too glad that Peter is now in a better condition. Barbara filled in the details of what Peter missed out on when was in a small coma, and his relief expression changed to one for seriousness when he found out how the stakes suddenly grew just a bit higher, especially when he noticed Talia was here with them.

He was especially somewhat surprised that Jason came back to Gotham, but should've easily known since wherever Talia goes, Jason wouldn't be too far behind when it came down to it. If it was a long time ago where Jason didn't have died, was still Robin, or at least was the same person Peter grew to learn and call a brother, he would've been ecstatic to see him. Yet with him being here meant that he's gonna bring some type of trouble because this was Jason first and foremost. It means that Jason would likely wanna handle at least one of those threats by himself.

And it meant he was definitely most likely gonna go after the Arkham Knight with how they'd target Talia.

Peter felt his body being stiff when searching for Jason along with the help of Barbara. Just even moving his hands he felt that it wasn't as fast he wanted to be, 'The lack of moving in a coma does wonders and non wonders to the human body. Gotta make sure the less of that happening the better,' Peter told himself. As he was helping in the search, Cassandra who was clad in her Bat suit kept her arms around his neck. He easily knew it was because she didn't want to let go of him, and to make sure she wasn't dreaming and that he really was awake, "You do know this isn't a dream right?" Cassandra didn't answer him, so he poke her nose that got her body to jolt from the sudden move, "Ohhhh so she is awake."

Hearing his light heart voice was surprising to hear on Cassandra end. But what made all the more odd, and also very pleasant, wasn't the sort of restrained light heart tone that she would hear. Sure, Peter is known to joke and keep things light at heart, but Cassandra knows Peter's voice to the smallest decimal, '...It's been years since I heard that voice,' she noted to herself as she watched her boyfriend at work, 'Something happened in his coma. Something changed him or...Something happened,' which was why Cassandra held on to Peter. Because right now, as happy as she was to hear that tone voice once more, she just found it odd how that came about after waking from a week and a half coma.

She wasn't sure if it was Peter if that's the case. But she can see his movement, hear his voice, and she knows it's him. Somehow sensing her worriedness, Peter assured her by rubbing her soft hands and wrist. She wanted to feel the touch without the gauntlet, but she'll soon have to venture out once they found Jason. She can tell this added gesture was his usual gentle kind of touch, and with how he did it so easily and so fast due to what was plaguing her mind at the moment, she shook off her suspicions as soon as it came, "You all remember Madam Webb? The new one, not the old one?" Peter briefly around him, with everyone besides Talia nodding, "She came into my brain and sort of gave me therapy. A uh...Long needed therapy that helped me reflect on a lot of things. I can tell from being in there, there's likely some more needed to be consultation but I'm-"

"Better," Cassandra said, finishing his sentence. With Peter being so focused on the task at hand, he forgot to bring it up to the Bat family. It's why the likes of Barbara and Alfred kept watch on him, or why Bruce and Dick every now and again kept a very keen eye on him that made them lose focus on the bat computer. Even Talia to a degree, at first not paying any mind, now has an intriguing interest in what went on for him to exhibit the kind of change he underwent, "When we have...Time. Tell us...I talk to MJ."

His eyes widened slightly, the prospect of Mary Jane and Cassandra talking was something he dread due to the last time they had an interaction with one another. But the fact they had, and she was calling her by her short name really meant they must've made up, "Really?" He looked at her as he kept typing away on the bat computer, "How did that go?"

"Better than you think. Talk, a lot. Share things. Traumas. We have something…In common. Father's were bad. Didn't say much about…Anyone else. But I know, saw, she was alone," her metallic thumb gently rubbing against Peter's collarbone, "But found people, like me. And lost them, like me. Yet she's trying to be better. Like me."

Peter stopped typing briefly, noticing the slight far away gaze in Cassandra's eyes. The bags under her eyes were getting noticeable, and her overall tiredness of it all seemed to be seeping more day by day. Peter wouldn't lie; he felt a sense of that familiar guilt within her. But he won't let his guilt and regression put him in a selfish position any longer. Seeing as she was still holding on, to him and her family, Peter knew she wouldn't stop, can't stop, not even the bridge incident was gonna slow her down from trying to bring back the positive meaning of what the Bat symbol meant at one point. It aches Peter to hear of all that went on because he was in a coma. But again, he's here and won't put anyone in that position ever again, "I'm here, we're all here for you. You don't have to try to shoulder the burden of this city on your own. You know that right?"

Cassandra let out a sigh, burying herself in his neck, lightly kissing it before she rested her chin near his shoulder. Cassandra so badly wants to just take him away from the cave, go upstairs, and feel him inside her once more. But she can't have that pleasure right now, what she has now would suffice for the time being, "I know. Just want to…Decide for once. Lead, not follow. Hard making the right choice."

"You do what you can with what you have," Peter would then groan loudly as he turned his focus back on the bat computer. Progress was going relatively slow then he wanted it to in terms of finding Jason, "Why the hell does he have to use old tech every time? It's a pain in the ass to track!" Peter lightly yelled out.

"Could always ask the bitch that got into contact with the flame head," Dick commented, seeing as Peter and Cassandra's little moment was over for the time being.

"Manners Dick!" Peter said, pointing his finger up, "She's not a dog, but a psychotic witch that was raised by a psychotic bastard," he snapped his finger and clicked his teeth together at Dick.

Cassandra, Barbara, Dick, and even Alfred couldn't help but snicker softly beside Peter while Talia eyerolled. It was really good for the majority of them to hear that sense of humor Peter is known for, but do it with complete openness instead of reacting to what's around him, "Children's, I hate them," Talia muttered to herself.

"By the way, psychotic witch! Can't you brush up some type of magic mumbo jumbo that could help locate Jason?" Peter asked.

Talia looked at Bruce, stern and annoyed to have to deal with the child-like mannerism in the way Peter talked to her. Meanwhile Bruce had the smallest of smirks when looking at Talia before he shrugged his shoulders, letting her do the talking that only made her more annoyed, "That's not how magic works. And the type of magic I'm linked to Jason is only for communication purposes on my end."

Barbara frowns at learning more about her abilities work and how they're tied to Jason, "So he knows where you are, but you don't know where he's at?" She then scoffed, "Tragic that he's stuck with you."

"A price to pay for resurrection. My father would've had him all to himself if it wasn't for me," Talia mentions, "Besides, I give him the necessary space he deserves."

"Doesn't quite make it as good as you make it out to be Miss Al Ghul," Alfred said, "Sure, it's better to know the devil you work with than the devil you don't know. But at what cost?"

"Preach! I miss you Alfred!"

"I miss you too Master Parker," In response since Alfred stood near him, he gave him a high five, to which he happily responded too.

Soon the Bat computer on screen zoomed in, finding Jason, "There! We got a frequency on him... But wait..It's underneath North Gotham…But I thought," Barbara's eyes steadily widen realizing where exactly he was at, "...No way…"

Peter felt the same perplexed vibe that Barbara was feeling in the pit of her stomach, "Yeah.. This is an indication of Old Gotham…Old, old Gotham actually, but I thought we sunk that place so Joker wouldn't be able to use the Lazarus pit…Right Bruce?" Peter turns while questioning Bruce.

"It was supposed to be. Once we brought down Hugo Strange, Ra's, and Doctor Octavius plans, we made sure Wonder city was no more of a thing. Which allowed North and Old Gotham to no longer be a prison, with the average citizen's that weren't a criminal to be able to move freely into Miagani island," he said when moving closer to the Bat computer, "Yet it seems someone rebuilt it, retooled it under our nose when we were so busy with everything else… Damn it…How did we miss this?"

"Simple," Talia's voice again came out in the cave they were in, "You all were happy. Doesn't matter if Arkham City was over 5 years ago, or the fact you were successful in stopping what my father had planned. Because soon afterward, Gotham became more peaceful that you all didn't need to be heroes' at often. The likes of you two," Talia pointed to Peter and Bruce, "Focus on a lot of outside work such as with the other heroes' like the Justice League. Leaving the rest of the Bat family to protect Gotham. Hell, everyone here also played with the other heroic teams just as much as you, Bruce and Peter. Villains would become less imposing, less threatening to Gotham, and Wayne enterprise was in the newest of heights just as they once were when your parents were alive. Yet, if you had let me kill the real Joker Peter, or if you, Bruce, had killed the Joker earlier, then maybe, just maybe, you all would've seen the enemy lurking underneath us. Allowing Gotham to stay in the time's of peace."

Dick scoffs at Talia's comment, "Here we go again, blaming us for things that we can't see. You know i-"

"Dick," Bruce's command voice stopped Dick from going further, especially with how he eyed him. The outburst and motion of aggression was not only becoming tiring, but a factor into something else that's going on with Dick. And the truly tragic part is that Bruce has some inkling to what's going on with Dick. But he can't stop it, not at this time. And Bruce can probably predict the others felt the same way. There's too much going on, and they'll need his help one way or another. All he can hope is that Dick doesn't spiral out of control at the end of the day.

"Look Talia," Peter made to stand up, again his body was still stiff and some bits of it were still waking up and so Cassandra had to help him when he wanted to talk to her directly, "Doesn't matter if we weren't good enough to see what we should've seen. At those times? Those previous five years? Yeah, we were steadily becoming happy in our lives, steadily being all over the place as the other side of the world, or beyond this earth needed our help. But you know what? I rather keep working on myself, trying to keep my life stable, trying to keep everyone safe, and be around the people who need me. Because those moments allowed me to be who I am now and I don't regret making my decisions in those times," Peter finds himself frowning slightly, "Even the darker times.. I can't speak for everyone, but that's just me. Because I know that I'm confident that regardless of the lack of research, or insight to the Arkham Knight and to the extent of Kasady? I know we'll beat them just like we've beaten everyone else that came our way."

Talia didn't respond to Peter, but simply observed him in his natural form, 'It's been a long while since I saw the man behind the mask, and with this new found energy and aura he exudes? It's new... He was strong, always was, but here he is confident in it. Unjust too, never back down, but always seemed to be tired mentally and spiritually. Now both mind and spirit are more clear while his body is still tired. He didn't take time to find his words without the mask, he knows what he wants to say. And if I really remember, it was almost 6 years ago when I saw the man behind the Spider, after Arkham City, after saving my life,' Talia said to herself, 'Right now? It's as if those 5 years, and with everything he went through, and everything he went through when in that coma, shape him to be a stronger man. A stronger Spider-Man.'

Talia couldn't deny what she's seeing, and what she heard from Peter. Here she truly saw the man that was the heart of the Bat family, the one who didn't want to be part of it at first, but since became part of it. And now he's using that responsibility to keep everyone together, a web that cannot, and will not break as long as he's still standing. It was so courageous that everyone here stood behind his words, his stance, his mortality. Talia saw how important Peter is to the Bat family, and why he's so important to everyone here, "Hm, I can now see why my father respected you even with your powers. You're an interesting person Peter Parker," Talia mentioned, saying his full name then his masked name.

"So I heard from the many psychotic people in my life, now we got a flame head to save." Before he even moved, Cassandra quickly stepped in front of him, putting her hand on his chest. Peter got a brief nostalgia when she did that, a reminder when he had the symbiote on and she stood in front of him like that. But here was different, she didn't look upon him with sorrow or worriedness.

But one of focus, determination, and carness, "Need rest. Dick and I have this."

"Y..You sure?" She nods, and so Peter nods, respecting her decision, her choice that she wants to make, "Ok, just make sure to take some spider drones and even maybe a web categories because you ne-"

"Dude," Dick put his hand on his shoulder, "We got this, be our eyes and ears."

Peter couldn't help but chuckle and had his eyebrow raised, "Is this your way of booting me to a guy on the chair?"

"Why do you make that like a bad thing Peter?" Barbara said, pouting and raising her own eyebrow in his direction.

"It's not! I just…"

"Don't dig yourself even further master Parker, and come finish your food!" Alfred said, finding amusing as ever to see the young man always finding his ways to dig himself in a hole with the various women in his life.

Peter sighs, but just before they could leave, Cassandra lay upon him a passionate kiss. It was quick, yet the emotion behind it wanted Peter to have it just a little longer. And the smile she had on her face before she put on the cowl, it did wonders to Peter, "Yahtzee…"

---

'...What did Bruce always use to tell me...? When I first became Robin like at...14? Plan ahead right? One doesn't work out, find another, and if that doesn't work out keep finding a way...If nothing comes through, trust my gut, instinct, training, and most of all...Trust myself that I will make it out alive...And there comes that steel bat again.'

Said steel bat swung right at his ribs that made Jason groan and his breathing ragged. What made it hurt worse was that he didn't have his armor at the moment. In fact, he's in an odd predicament that he put himself in; locked in a claustrophobic environment, surrounded only by tools of weapons, and the Knights of the sun beating him to a palp. His hands and legs were locked tight by a handcuff he couldn't break out of, 'Sure...! Could've notified my location to the Bat computer, have batgirly and his boyfriend help me out, or anyone who wants to save this stupid place...' Jason spit out blood from his mouth, since the Knight's of the sun manage to break the lower part of helmet after what seemed like hours of his torture, 'But then...They would get in the way as they always do...Stopping me from killing these bozo's that wants to pain the town red. Then again-'

One Knight of the sun member let loose of punches left and right, punches that had brass knuckles on it that kept battering his helmet.

'I'm...'

Another member of the Knights of the sun grabs his helmet, bashing it on the concrete ground several times before picking him up.

'No better...'

Once more, a bat swung at him, this time straight to his chest that made Jason eye's bulge. He's used to the pain, but that doesn't mean he can ignore it with how grave it was. It almost felt like his heart stopped as he grasped for a huge amount of air. The handcuff that was chain to pipe held him on his knees so that he couldn't exactly fall unless the Knight's of the sun forced him too.

'Th...an...Bru-'

Another grabbed his head, bashing their knees that had metal caps and shin guards where Jason almost felt the full force of the material battering up his helmet. Finally, the same person with the steel pipe went to make a homerun, "Here come's the money shot!" He shouted with glee, and he swung right to the side of the helmet. The mere power of the swing dented the side of his temple, but his helmet stayed on.

While the helmet protected him from large dosage of damage, he knew his brain was rattling from all the impact. He felt like he wanted to throw up, but he won't let himself do it, '...I'm no better than Bruce...huh?' He almost asked himself about the punishment he's been receiving.

"Keep him fucking steady! I wanna have more fun with him!" Jason's breathing was becoming heavy every second. Even with his helmet still on, these were still attacks that were only causing more taxing on his head, and body that had no amount of protection. His upper to lower body, his shoulders to his biceps, all had new cuts over the scars he had, were red from the beating he's taking, and even the ribs, liver, and kidney were swollen from the damage. There's so much his body can take before there's a rupture and will lead to his eventual death, 'Not like I'll die...They'll save me, and if I die...It's been a hell of a run hasn't it?'

He was then picked up by one of the knights, "So glad we got some fun around here other than guarding or mending certain stations!" The person laughed behind his half mask as he swung his brass knuckle into where Jason rib was.

Jason growled in pain, but took it in, breathing in and out as another one came at him, "COME ON! I BET YOUR MOMMA RAISED YOU LIKE THE PUSSY YOU ARE!"

"He's barking again!"

"Amp that shit up!"

"HELL YEAH I AM!"

The brass knuckles went hammer in on Jason several times, knocking him down but they kept picking him back up, "GAH...uG...JOKER HIT HARDER THAN YOU EVER COULD!" Jason again goateed.

"THEN I GOT SOMETHING LIVE UP WITH HA!" He laughed like a manic as he kept punishing Jason for not just speaking, but calling him out of his weakness.

In doing so, Jason's plan was in motion. Group full of Knights in the sun were gathering, watching and taking turns beating the ever living shit out of him. All he needed to do was listen.

Listen, gather intel, then demolish and kill when he gets the chance.

"You see what the Knight is building in that ship of theirs?"

"Not a ship, a submarine. And yeah, getting ready for something big. Got some extreme stuff that flew in from overseas in Venezuela."

"Lower your voices jack asses! it's not like how we were in the Asylum where we could talk as loud as possible!"

"Better here than that shitting place."

"So you're the people coming from the Asylum," one of them scoffed, "No wonder the blood thirsty got large around here."

"Man stuff it, we may not be military experience as some of you are, but we can keep up just fine!"

"Actually, not everyone here was part of the military, some are simple mercenaries for hire."

"Jeez, where the hell did the Knight round us up? And how much money do they have to even afford people like that?"

"Some say they're as rich as Bruce Wayne, and some say they have a way of words. Don't know, this mission we're on to take down the Bat family in a methodical way gives me a purpose since being reprimanded from active duty in the military."

"Either way, I'm still waiting on our big day when we can rule Gotham."

"Gonna be hard, it's not only the Bat's partner and the Spider we have to worry about, but the whole justice league and other heroes."

One of the Knights of the sun members chuckled, "Come on, they don't care about Gotham. The Bat destroyed their relationships with all of them after he smoked them."

"It wasn't all of them though."

"Yeah well, the major players getting smoke like that shook everyone. Then, the Bat himself went live on broadcast threatening any other hero who tries to take him down. He struck fear in their hearts worse than any people he fought."

"Still, the Knight would have worried about other heroes coming to this city to save it."

"Knight has plans for them; knows how to handle speedsters, Amazonians, magic users, hell even devils if it comes to it. Remember when we were in Venezuela with the briefings? They study a lot, and have resources to win a war against anyone, hell, maybe aliens too. The only challenge right now is the Bat, his family, and the Spider."

"And who's to say the Bat won't come back if we win?"

"But that's what the Knight wants. They want the Bat to come back, and the only way to do it is by killing his family in front of him. Once that happens, that'll be where the real war comes on."

"Are you saying the Knight can beat Batwomen? I heard she's way tougher than the og Bat just because she beat him."

"Who knows about that one. Everyone like you says she did beat him, but no one really saw the fight, and whatever video was on the internet showed Batman tossing his side kick around. Yet the Knight from what I could tell, was thrilled by the fight, and most likely knows they can beat her."

Even in pain, Jason kept his ears high to keep hearing more and more. If it wasn't for his helmet, his hearing might've been messed up from the nasty shots he's been taking, '...Bastards wants us alive…Just enough to egg Bruce to come back…'

"But what about the Spider? That guy breeds so much trouble. Everyone rags on him whether it's because he's a menace or a low level hero, but the guy is the ace in the hole in terms of winning fights."

"Yeah, no doubt. I remember seeing on the news when he went up against Darkseid and his army. Dude stood his ground, and gave a window of opportunity for the league to assist him, all by himself too."

"He's got his hands full with that Carnage fella. Honestly, it's why the Knight came out when they did. It was the right moment when they found out someone like us who wants Gotham to riot. The Knight would only move as long as the Spider had their hands full, otherwise our fight will only be tougher because of it."

'...And with Peter not around…It's no wonder why the Arkham Knight was ballsy enough to ev-' Jason thought was caught off when his helmet finally gave out, and one side cracked open revealing a linear scar, jagged down the right of his eye, yet that navy blue eye was functionally fine. Part of the hair fell to his face, wasn't so long except for the front left strands dangling down his forehead, and then there was a scar that the Knights of the sun can see.

A J that looks to be skin burning right into the flesh of his cheek resides under his eye.

Jason would spit out the blood, his eyes furrowed as he looked at the Knights of the sun, watching, laughing, and waiting to terrorize him. Yet he wasn't a coward, because he's been through worse, and none of them was as bad as the clown prince of crime.

---

Cassandra and Dick were threading the deep underwater sea of Gotham's river. Using one of Batman's many other vehicles known as the Bat boat to get where they needed to be at. It was sleek, deep black with the cockpit being tinted in red, engines firing behind it as it was speeding to its destination, and of course, behind the cockpit was a triangle tip along with two wings resembling the wings right behind where the engine was.

"Guys….Gonna become shaky here…." Peter's voice coming through their comm's was becoming so static that it only served to annoy Dick, and become bothersome for Cassandra. It meant that they were getting closer to Jason's location, "Knight….Using a jammer of sorts…Make…To use my spider drone…"

"To make way to get more intel on them, got you on the beat Peter. We'll be fine from here on out, systems working fine thanks to you and Tim's last improvement on the Bat boat," Dick said as he was manning the vehicle. Soon enough, comm's went down to the point that their connection to the Batcave was cut off, "Anddd, it's just the two of us. But we can make it if we try, just the two of us," Dick turns behind him to see Cassandra having her arm crossed, "Come on! Sing along!"

Even with how Dick had been acting as of late, there was still that kinship, the need to be there for others, and the need to check on those no matter the environment they're in. That good hearted soul was still there amongst his new found anguish, "..Just the two of us!"

"Ah! I knew you knew the song. Brings a tear to my face to know your catalog of music has been improving over the years."

"Has been…Sometime since I listened to…Music," Cassandra spoke, her mask didn't hide her slight downpour in her tone as if she feels regretful of not doing enough, "Been busy."

"I get it. Being Batwomen."

"Amongst others.." Cassandra shifted her gaze to get a closer look of the map; while the communication to the Batcave was cut off, it was a good thing that their own system worked tangibly thanks to Peter and Tim's own improvement of the vehicle, "Getting close."

"That we are. Seems like," Dick fingers would zoom on the radar, seeing that its 3D visualization screen showcases that the way forward would soon lead them into a barrier of sorts, "We might want to enter without the boat. The cowl is fitted with its own breathable oxygen tank right?"

"Yes."

"That just leaves me then," Dick chuckled to himself, as he opened up the small hatch near him that was loaded with breathable O2 mask for him to swim with, "Seems Peter thought of everything he could with that suit of yours."

"He did," her hand touched her chest, the center where the bat symbol lay on it, "Always does."

"..And he had a point back there with Talia. But unlike the confidence he has now, one that I have to admit, is very good to see now more than ever. I can't help but not be on the same page as him. Because I would love nothing more than to back to those years ago, even to those specific 3 years since we were all happy, or trying to be happy as much as we can," Cassandra was quiet when listening to Dick talk, hearing the somberness of his voice coming clear, "Everything was looking up; Titans were strong with me helping and leading along with Koriand'r. She herself became queen to her race, started working on her relationship with her sister, and we reconciled our feelings for each other. Barbara was more comfortable in her role as Oracle, having her own team, and especially helping her father more closely at that time. Bruce and Selina got together, eventually married, allowing them both to finally be happy with one another. Tim and Steph started to focus more of their time on their studies then Gotham, slowly and surely, regulating themselves to normal lives, and they'd deserve it too. Jason still was a work in progress but even if we were all at odds from his transition to being who he is? We still supported him, and I know he appreciated that, allowing him to slowly heal from all the crap he dealt with in his life. And you and Peter started something fierce, sudden, and unexpecting. For one, he was doing alot in terms of helping me with the Titans, putting focus on Justice league work, finding time for his Spider family even if he felt highly uncomfortable with them, and of course, finding time with Gotham. You were being more exposed to the living, working, having hobbies, making friends, learning what it's like to be normal, thanks to Peter, but also, because we were there for you most of all."

Dick then sighed, bowing his head slightly as he remembers that with those happy moments, came a year later when things went south so fast, "Then everything just went downhill…Donna died trying to save Raven, and she was successful, but Raven ended up sacrificing herself anyway for the Titans. Birds and the preys split due to Helena's and Zinda's death after a mission gone south. Dinah even had to retire because she almost lost her baby, leaving Barbara behind...She probably still blames herself for the team's downfall. Then Peter had to deal with his best friend, Harry. He saved him from the oz drugs he was on, but he also had Zatanna to wipe his memories and planted false memories in hope's to make him have a better life. His Aunt then started dying, and because he had to do somethings outside of Gotham involving helping his Spider family, he wasn't there for her when she died...Which led to-"

"Dick," Cassandra put her hands on his shoulder, "Don't need to rethread."

"I know… Just…It's not fair, ok?! I mean can we for once! We as people who defend those who can't defend themselves, save people who need saving, and do all this stuff just so we can be better, and try to let go of our trauma…Why can't we have happiness? Not for a moment, but forever?" Dick asked, questioning mostly to the spectrum of faith that's not on his side, and more pointing to the fact that faith has never always been kind to the heroes that only wanted to do good, "Cass… I.." Dick looked at the radar, stopping what he was gonna say as he noted they were just about close to where Jason was at, "We're here," the despair in his tone was gone, and he was focused on the mission.

Something like Bruce, and something brought a small fear in Cassandra's heart. She wanted to pry, but she knows she can't, not right now. The mission comes first, saving Jason comes first, feelings come next whenever she can get to it, "Right."

Dick stops the vehicle, turning off any systems and putting it into cloak mode to remain undetected. Both he and Cassandra got a glimpse of ruins, streets that were destroyed, flooded by Gotham's river. They were indeed here where old Gotham once used to reside in, "Judging from where Jason's locator is, we'll have to create our own opening, hopefully we don't need to make a huge explosion."

"Probably."

"Hm, gonna be a hell of a fight."

"Get in, get Jason, and get out."

Dick smirks, "Never simple though."

Cassandra's only answer was to shrug, because this is what they do. It's never that simple.

---

The Arkham Knight was busy at work, working on their submarine. Putting years of hard labor to not only be able to fit this type of vehicle, but also other vehicles to move through the river of Gotham, to the streets of Gotham was well worth the work. While the submarine was already a functional source of vehicle, they were more focus in the inside of it while having multiple of their soldier focus on a source of generator that was in a separate container compare to the engine's, fuel, and other source of power the submarine needed to be movable, "Make sure each of you monitor the power cell in the emp every 5 hrs. No mistakes must be made or you'll all simply be sent to the cavity."

"Yes Knight!" Multiple soldiers of the Knight of the sun said.

The Arkham Knight made their way out of the submarine, climbing a ladder that involved them to the main hun where more members were focused on getting the system stable as it can be. They would then climb up another ladder that led to the hatch, "How's the fighter jet's in Venezuela soldier's?!" They shouted out loud for at least one of them to answer them.

"Got stable results for the most Knight! If we need to use it, it'll take 8-10 minutes tops to reach Gotham."

The Knight dropped off the submarine, and briefly went to help some of their members repurpose the missile for the submarine, "Good! We also need tanks at work too!"

"Also operational too Knight!" One of them came running to them to show it to them for proof. The Knight finishes helping and looks at the tablet one of the member's shows them, "We have state of the art usage from Lexcorp themselves, but all we need is to make sure we can move them undetected from South America to here."

"Don't worry about that. They're gonna be for back up usages in case my plan for Talia doesn't work."

"Yes, Arkham Knight! I'll inform them to keep everything on point!"

The Knight would nod and move out of the submarine space to where the other vehicle's resided at, "Where the hell is that damn Chameleon?!"

"No idea Knight!"

"His locator is turned off wherever he's at!"

"Damn it! Someone get the back u-"

"Also down Knight!"

They punch a nearby vehicle, "Damn snake!" Gripping their hands, they couldn't worry about him right now, "START TESTING THAT EMP! WE NEED TO MAKE SURE IT CAN PENETRATE THE CAVE!" The Knight turned and shouted to the back of them where the submarine resided at.

As soon as the Knight said that, a large explosion was heard from the main area of wonder city. The Arkham Knight and the people in the vehicle had their heads turned, grabbing all their attention as siren's began blaring in the base with intruders entering, "Look alive people!" their people already went to gather their weapons, and the Knight already had their shield and sword ready for the rematch, "They've come for him.."

---

"The hell was that?!"

"Damn! No way they've found us!"

"Get moving fools!" One of them pushed a group of the Knights of the sun out of the area, "Give them cover while he makes sure this freak stays here!"

Jason laughed quietly at hearing the echoes of gun fires, certain members panicking as they're being put unconscious, some calling out the intruders how fast they were or how outmatched they were against them. He can even hear the tiniest amount of smoke grenades were likely covering them from the fierce amount of soldiers here in Wonder City, 'Took them long enough,' Jason said to himself while spitting out blood from his mouth into his helmet, 'And now...' he snap his fingers twice, and the gauntlet on his arm gently slid him a lockpick, and with the slight movement of his hands, he was able to unlock the handcuffs rather easy, 'Time to make my own escape,' his hands quickly caught the handcuff as he smirk to himself having a plan already wanting to be in motion

Quickly thrusting his heavy plated boots to a person's knee cap, and then quickly rolling to the floor to avoid the steel bat, Jason was already behind one of the Knights of the sun, using the handcuff to choke him. He had to use his strength to pull just a bit hard to where even the armor can't protect his neck from losing oxygen.

"He broke free?!"

"How the fuck he got out?!"

"I don't fucking know!"

Again, but louder, Jason laughed at the Knights of the sun being baffled by how easy his escape was, "Didn't your boss tell you to keep your eyes on the enemy?" Jason asks, taunting them just as he easily snaps the person's neck, swift and easy like. The body dropped on the floor with a thud as he began swinging the handcuff around like a nunchaku, "You're all dead meat, so come on and show me what a dead person sounds like!"

"GET HIM!"

"BE SMART AND USE GUNS!"

It was good for them to all try to overpower Jason, but even with being handicap due to his injuries it wouldn't be enough for them to stop him. He counters each of them like it was nothing, slapping them all with his handcuffs without ever moving. One of them gave him an opening to do the same maneuver earlier, allowing him to snap their neck without any trouble. Those who got up tried changing their tactics, but again, it wouldn't be of use. Some tried to grapple, with Jason biting through the pain and move out the way, grabbing their head to snap it with ease, sweeping off their feet to stomp them hard in their neck where their armor pierce to their neck letting loose blood spilling on the floor, or defended himself from a take by sprawling his legs back keep them on the floor. Noticing guns were being pointed at him, he was quick enough to pick the soldier at hand, and let him take the bullets.

"GOD DAMN IT!"

"HOW THE HELL IS HE STILL MOVING WITH ALL THIS SHIT WE DID TO HIM?!"

Behind the dead body of their comrade, Jason once more, laughs at them. He can tell without using his visor they were scared, petrified at how he could still stand and toss them around with ease, "I told you guys," he then glared at them, "Joker did worse than any of you could," with a quick triple snap of fingers, his gauntlet morphed reminiscent to a firearm, and shot them all without hesitation. Pushing his arms back for it to dimorph to a regular gauntlet, Jason sucked his teeth, "Can't believe I had to use this. Floyd is gonna start charging me extra if I get this shit jam again, or worse, use all the bullets on the fly," Jason stifles, groaning at the amount of his body shot pain through his system. He had to balance himself on the wall so he doesn't fall to the ground, taking out a syringe from his belt, he stab it to his rib where he feel the syringe did its job to keep him stable, and fully be able to move without worrying about the pain, "Adrenaline booster won't last long, gotta be quick about it," Jason went to grab his gear they took away from him; his armor, knives, sword, grenades, guns, and whatever else that he had on him.

Putting on his white vest on he was just about ready to go out and rain hell with the people that came to save him. But, a lone survivor grabbed him by his ankle, trying to stop him, "Heh, guess your mother didn't raise a pussy."

Using his pistol, he shot him, and moved forward.

---

Cassandra and Dick flow through the small warfare that was going on. Cassandra provided back up with smokes, casting and blocking the view of the area in wonder city allowing them to freely move and take down the knights and their artillery. She even had the spider bots disable whichever turrets that were focused on them. Dick working with Cassandra, moved like a demon coming out of hell as he bounced from smoke to smoke, using his escrima stick as a staff, taking on dozens of the Knights foe as well giving himself space by using the concessive force the staff allowed to be used.

With Dick mainly focused on, causing as much trouble to the group as possible, Cassandra kept herself in a defensive position. She would use grenade-like webbing to stop more of the Knight's soldiers from trying to shoot through the smoke, and she would even use her own batarang's to distract each and every opponent she landed. Being Dick's eyes behind his back, and allowing him to take them on easier. She noticed that their enemies were adapting to the plain field; from her detective vision being of use, some were locking eyes on her and Dick which meant they had goggles to see through the smoke, 'Shit!' Acting fast, she pushes through the smoke, tossing more smokes to at least, give them more cover, and switch her position to offensive.

She fought alongside Dick, both striking hard, fast, move to cover, and avoid as much damage as they could while striking at their weak points. With Wonder City having small miniature like buildings, it gave the Knights' of the sun range and cover to flush them out with their guns or crossbow. Cassandra, noticing this while Dick was so enthralled on the fight, quickly tackled Dick out of the way, both rolling, and moving to where they needed to go to next. Dick went after the closet soldier, meanwhile Cassandra would use her grapnel gun to skyrocket herself up through the glass window, slamming one of the Knight's of the sun right onto the wooden floor. The wooden floor would break, collapsing both her and several of the Knights forces to ground level. Cassandra was out in the open, soldiers trying to fire at her and indeed, landing at her chest, shoulder, and legs, "UGH!"

If it wasn't for the usage of Peter's web grenades, or the spider drones that came to help, they would've unload her with more bullets, hitting at her weak points.

Finding cover to think what's her next move, Cassandra realized the more they fight, the more they'll get overwhelmed by their forces. The worst part was she was supposed to find Jason, but with the Knight forces engaging them at every angle, it was almost impossible to go for Jason. And not to mention as Cassandra could see and hear, Dick was too busy fighting then remembering the plan.

If anything, Cassandra was alone on this one, and it pained her that the ally she should be trusting right here and now, is nowhere here with her mentally wise.

However, Cassandra heard the kind of gunshot rang out, not at her, nor Dick as she proceeded to be back in the fight. The cloud of smoke was starting to disperse, a lot faster now because of the Knights of the sun forces using their own mechanics to suck up the clouds of smoke by usage of the fans in the area. Cassandra would find herself back to back with someone, not Dick, he was far leaner and smaller just with contact alone.

And she heard him reloading as well, and a quick glimpse from both people meant it was Jason being back to back with Cassandra, "Hey small Bat! About time you show up!"

"No guns," Cassandra elbowed a soldier, taking away their crossbow and using the end of it to hit them in their stomach, before slamming it right on their temple, "no killings."

"Oh!" Not listening to her, his bullets ripped apart the Knight's forces like it was nothing, "But where's the fun in that?"

"Nightwing we ne-" Cassandra quickly saw the Knight and their army jump through the smoke to attack them. Both Jason and Cassandra flipped or rolled out the way, with Jason focusing on the Knights of the sun members, and Cassandra once again going toe to toe with the Arkham Knight.

Cassandra dodge their sword swipe, but gave forth her fair share of offensive attacks; such as flurry of kicks and strikes that the Knight blocked with their shield or dodge altogether, until Cassandra's gauntlet clashes with the Knight's sword, bringing them face to face, "Batwomen!"

"Arkham Knight."

"Last time we fought you showed me just how good you are. But now you're in my territory, with people who are far too busy fighting then knowing they will become outnumbered," Cassandra did took note of this, already knew this, and needed to get out before they become more overwhelmed with their increased forces, and weapons that will soon become active. She can hear the sound of Dick viciousness growling out through Wonder City as he kept going after as many of the Knight's army as he could, and along with Dick, Jason's gun firing like there was no tomorrow as he himself let out a war cry when dropping bodies left and right. In hindsight sure, there could be a chance to win this, but to what end?

Dick wasn't and isn't in the right state of mind, their talk earlier and everything else that's been going with him indicates that. And Jason? He didn't need to be here, didn't need to expose himself like this. And yes, it allows them to know where the Knight's base was at, but to what end? To what point?

The cloud of smoke was already dispersed, and Cassandra already can see whatever turrets were working, which was a lot that cover from different varieties of angles, and they were already eyeing all of them, "Your mother spoke highly of you, always had," this definitely had gotten Cassandra's attention, "Yet I can see it as she told me, you lack what Redhood has, what Nightwing so badly wants to do, what the Batman had done for his city. A killer instinct...So Come on!" They push harder on their sword, trying to win the clash, but Cassandra stood her ground, "Show me why your mother only wants to die by your hands and no one else's! Show me the assassin that's only language is through fighting! SHOW ME WHO THE HELL YOU ARE!"

"BOTH OF YOU CAN GO TO HELL!" Cassandra shouted, and with all her might as she pushed the Knight back, following up with a powerful spinning kick that the Knight couldn't avoid fast enough. Quickly using a batclaw to pull not only Dick back but also Jason, and with the last remaining of her smoke bombs, Cassandra tosses it so they can make an escape.

"Why are we stopping?!" Dick ask as he stood up back to his feet, "We had them on-"

"Save him," Cassandra pointed to Jason, reminding Dick what needed to be done and nothing more, "Then get out. No dying!"

Jason couldn't help but snicker, "The Nightwing has a death wish? That is so out of character!"

Dick glared at Jason "Shut the hell up. We wouldn't be here if it weren't because of you."

"And a bit angsty too? what cra-"

"SAVE IT AND MOVE!"

Both the former Robins had to be pulled by Casssandra so they could avoid the shroud of bullets starting to haze through the smoke. They even had to avoid tanks firing at them when making a break for it. The Knight could be heard shouting, wanting them to stay and fight, and laugh at their cowardness. Jason would drop a few grenades to help in their escape, either it would've blown someone up, or stop them from trying to get them. Meanwhile, Cassandra made sure to hide the spider bots in the cave, so that way they won't be surprised whenever the Knight moves.

Taking one step ahead in this game of chess was good on them, because they need some way to win, not lose.

All in all, the Knight wouldn't stop them. The trio knows that their plan isn't about capturing or trying to stop their escape. If they could, then that was a bonus, but no, their plan's were more sophisticated than they assume.

And they, or Cassandra, needs to know what's their next move so she can stop them.

---

Peter and everyone in the cave waited patiently for the trio to return. They were able to establish a connection again and Dick was able to send whatever footage they could to the Bat computer. Not only that, Cassandra was clever enough to make sure there were a few spider drones that were left in surveillance mode, allowing them to get a better idea of what they were really up against, 'Thank god it took time for me to develop the connection with the spider drone and the Bat computer, years in fact. Not needing to be run through other outside Wi-Fi, but simply just with the Bat computer software to compute messages and such,' Peter said to himself, patting himself on the back for the job well done on his part.

It was shocking, especially for Bruce to see Wonder City being active again. Not only that, it was even more shocking seeing how reworked it was, reinforced and built in a way to allow more room for all the weapons, people, and vehicles that can be affiliated in a place like that, 'Odd how Wonder City can function like this. It always seemed impossible because it didn't have that foundation to even be remodel to this level,' Peter noted to himself as everyone that was in the cave still examined what they saw, 'It being built in the 19th century under a more modern Gotham is fascinating to see again with how they've outdone themselves, but also, terrifying to know they really had been under our nose for some time. Because now? The big question was why Wonder City? Why that of all places to have a base? Why the interest in that place? And did it all have a link to Ra's? To the league of assassins? It was hard to pinpoint due to the fact that Bruce and I made sure to flush that city down the drain after the events that occurred with Arkham city almost 6 years ago.'

Peter couldn't deny how coincidence everything went towards to Arkham City being built, 'After no man's land, former mayor Quincy Sharp decided to have the two worst islands, North Gotham and Old Gotham, be a prison that kept the good people of Gotham in Miagani island, away from the bad people,' lightly, Peter scoffed, 'It was terrible idea since some of those good people we're stuck in those islands when everything was happening. Bruce tried to do his part to shut it down, or at least, get as many people off those islands, but it was impossible due to many people having home's they can't just leave. Therefore, they were stuck with insane people, bad people, and super villains too. It was up to us to protect them as we didn't trust Hugo nor Octavius to try to persuade the people that they would've protected those who can't get off those two islands. It was good that it didn't last that long, only through December, but discovering the deep rabbit hole of that event? With the likes of Hugo Strange, Talia's father, and Otto Octavius, an old adversary of mine, wanting to better Gotham in their own, twisted fantasy? Jeez...Hard to believe the past is coming back to bite us. But luckily, even when I went up against my rogues, and Bruce went up against his rogue's separately in those islands, we had help. Cassandra and Dick help me with Old Gotham, while Tim and Stephanie help Bruce in North Gotham. Along with Barbara and Alfred feeding us info that led to protocol 10, we protected as much as we could, and put a stop to it. Or at least,' Peter frowned, 'We thought we did...'

Peter can't help but think that there was more than meets the eye, and this all keep's going back to Ra's al Ghul, 'Maybe this Arkham Knight fella wants to recruit Talia, maybe even take away her power from the league to morph into their fold,' he shook his head, 'Doesn't make sense when they can take them on...Crap...Another rabbit hole that's a bit hard to solve.. Or maybe they want to bring back the Lazarus pit?' The idea was sound, but Peter couldn't believe in that, 'Talia destroyed it, no way they can replicate it. The Knight would have to make deals with devils, demon's, and dark magic to even try to replicate the lazarus pit...Or maybe they're purpose is as simple as Kasady.'

Peter found his shoulder shaken by Barbara, having a puzzling expression on her face as she took a look at Peter, "Hm?"

"You're in your head again. What's going on in there?" She curiously asked.

"Just thinking about this Arkham Knight and how it could tie with Arkham city. Even their motivates and all that good jazz," Peter said, keeping both hands tucked and under a chin as he looked at the bat computer that capture more footages of what Wonder City looked like now, "I mean this is another army just like with Kasady, two wars we're gonna have to face head on. This Arkham Knight looks like they're gearing up for something."

Barbara sighed, briefly taking off her glasses to rub the bridges of her noses. From all the years he's been seeing her do this, Barbara would find time to come to these moments where stress induced her livelihood, 'How does she have the strength to keep going with everything that happened to her?' Peter asked in his own thoughts, 'From losing her ability to walk, father being torture by seeing what Joker did to her, the countless other trauma's she been through after that, and especially last year with losing her team and partners, then Joker creating his final act that hurt just about everyone here.'

Realizing all this, Peter felt ashamed he never asked how she was doing. A reminder of how selfish he has been for some time, "Are you ok Babs?" Peter gently asked, "You yourself look like you haven't slept and you should sleep."

A brief little giggle came out of her lip, "Very obvious huh?"

"Ehhh, kind of."

"Well...You're not wrong. I had to worry about you for 10 days straight, and you weren't looking like you were getting any better. Then there was Cass and…She was a bit of a mess when you were in that coma. Not to mention, having to keep track of everything and anything in Gotham for Dick to deal with, who mind you, went ghost sometime, along with Alfred who got hurt when finding more stuff on Carnage."

"He did what?"

"Yep, ole Al is suffering the age old weakness of being useless and not wanting to be useless. And then there's that," She gestured her head to Talia, who was talking to Bruce about something as they moved away from the bat computer, "God knows I've had to make sure she wasn't up to her usual schemes. She could say she's reform, but with how much she's tried to hurt us, beyond her father's control, I still don't trust her."

"As you should," Peter's eyes drifted to Talia, "I don't trust her either, like she's still withholding information from us. Such as not telling us about her magic connection with Jason. I know why Jason is devoted to her, but man...Her out of all people?"

"I think it's called like in the movies, books, and other media with those types of characters, they call it, development Peter," she said, with a hint of sass in her tone.

Peter hearing that tone made him chuckle. It was good to hear that positive trait she still had in her as he brought his attention back to her, "From what you told me about that little argument she had with Selina that you heard. It's...Honestly almost unbelievable to hear how much of a mother figure Talia became for Jason, and I'm not above people like her wanting to change. Yet I learn I can't be naive to the fact they won't slip to their old ways," his frown came back, "Like Jason... I knew him, maybe not better than most, but I got to know him when we were still teenagers, when we were still kids wanting to make Gotham a better place for…Everyone. We hated each other's guts, but we respected who we were, enough so we did become better friends. But, that anger? He always had, and even deep down, I know he was just like me wanting to cross the line but didn't. I think with the likes of everyone here, including Gwen and I? We stop that, but...I guess coming back to life changes that."

Barbara fitted her glasses back to her eyes, noticing Peter's frown slowly becoming prominent when that particular person became part of the topic, "You haven't talked about her in a while, least not with me."

"Yeah…Kind of always was hard when she looked up to you, learned from you, and in a sense, wanted to be you," Peter mentioned, "She wanted to be a cop not just because of her father, but because of you."

Barbara couldn't help but smile at Gwen's ambition at the time, "I..Never knew that.. She always talked, danced around that subject, and I think at one point it sounded like she was considering it a lot."

Peter nodded, "She was gonna do it, told me around thanksgiving about almost 7 years ago," Peter's eyes steadily widened at the realization of today, "Wow..It's almost thanksgiving..? huh, who would've thunk."

"Heh..Yeah, and this place still doesn't look like it'll be good for Christmas."

"Yeah, no doubt. Selina would probably want to get started on it."

"And Alfred will help."

"Anddddd we'll all get pulled along with it."

They share a laughter, two genuine people from different generations bonding over the times that had once happened, and wish to happen again. Bruce took note of this, silently smiling at seeing his protégé still having her effects on Peter. It was always good for Peter to communicate with others, other than him.

If there was anything Bruce could've done differently, it was to somehow be kinder to Peter when he was younger, 'I never knew how to do that, still have a hard time to be who I need to be for Peter. And yet, with how hard I was towards him in his younger years, he did become who he is today because of it.'

"You notice it too?" Talia questions Bruce as they both have their eye's on Peter. He only gave a nodding response, "What he went through in his coma state, seemed to made him stronger," now Talia found herself frowning, "It's scary to believe how people thought he would be the one to break, to become the next big bad, but never expected you of all people too," Bruce didn't answer her, "Whatever happens next, Peter needs to keep his mind strong. These villains? Even the monster that is known as Carnage? Will break him, because I know you notice that he's been breaking too Bruce."

"He won't," Bruce turned to Talia, "He has us, and so long as we breathe, we won't let him down."

Soon, everyone on the Bat boat came back to the cave. Each turn their heads seeing the trio grapnel up right to the center stage of the cave, "Thanks for the save," Jason said, taking off his helmet to let his dark red hair be free from the claustrophobia of his dent helmet. There were bruises and cuts he suffer from his beat down due to the impact of the weapons that came to blow, but he paid no mind to it, "Now I'm getting the hell out," Cassandra, with her cowl off, stood in front of him blocking his way, "Move Batgirl. Or is it Black Bat? Hell, Orphan? Out everyone, you had the most identity crisis going on," he spoke to her in a mocking tone.

Cassandra felt her teeth grinding, just hearing him being direct to her unnerve her. But he was family, and she will do what's right to protect him, "No," she said with her eyebrows furrowed, "You go out, the Knight will find..You."

"HA!" He laughed out loud, "They can try. Now move."

"Is that thanks we get from saving you?" Peter said, steadily standing up with Barbara helping him. He waved her off as he felt can walk fine without her help.

Jason groans to himself, adding a curse under his breath as he turns to see Peter, walking slowly to him, and noting the slight limp in his movement, the few bruises that linger on his face and body that he can see, "Wowww! You look like shit Parker. Didn't I tell you to keep your hands up?" Jason asked, again in a mocking tone.

"Oh ha ha! Funny, your sense of humor is still crude and rude," Peter too observes Jason, looking no better than he was, and his gaze couldn't help but soften at seeing his bloodshot eyes due to most likely being alcohol in his system, "..And your one to talk, if I look like crap than you sure as heck look like basura."

Jason shrugs his own shoulder, "Vodka would do the trick and I should be good to go. Now, since we all made up and al-"

"Is the Knight dead?" Talia's voice came through the bickering. .

Those simple 4 words got everyone eyeing Talia up and down. Jason found it funny that the small miniature of the Bat family didn't approve of what she said, "So this is why Jason came back," Bruce made his voice known, "Not only to save you, but to kill the Knight. Is that why you encourage Cassandra to make her own choice? So Jason can take the shot? In doing so, having innocent lives being taken on the Trigate bridge? What were you thinking Talia?"

"Again Bruce, this is war," she said, not backing down from his own stare, "By any means necessary I'll do what I must to survive, if it means I have to sacrifice people including you all, I will do so. Now, is the k-"

"Bitch did it look like I got the job done?" Jason questioned, losing his mocking tone and replaced it with clear irritation, "If they're dead I would've shouted on the comm's," Dick had to laugh at Jason's comment. It was rather nice for someone to shut Talia up and have her fuming other than himself.

Though even if he's loud, crude, and an angry son of a bitch at heart, if looked closely enough, Jason didn't have the gall to look at Bruce directly. But he felt his eyes staring at the side of his head; the eyes that felt every emotion upon seeing the former Robin all bloody up, both from his own blood and the blood of others. It didn't help out every so slightly, Jason faced cringe which is likely the pain he was going through in silence. Bruce wanted to walk to him, hug, do anything to say he should stop this bloodlust, rely on the people around him, but again like Cassandra, what can he do but make the problem more problematic? So he only could stay silent on his end when it came to Jason.

Talia scoffed, "Manners, after all that I did for you, you still have no manners."

Jason groan even more loudly, "Can I please just get the fuck out of this miserable place already! I don't need to deal with this any of you all right now. Hell! I don't want to be here in the first place! That fucking Arkham Knight shouldn't be my problem. It should be you all!"

"But it is," Talia said, "And once th-"

"No one dies," Cassandra said, eyes locking onto Talia, "Not even them."

Jason eyeroll at hearing the old code that Cassandra still stands by like her boyfriend. The naivety in the air was getting tiresome and annoying, "Ok Bruce junior, whatever you say."

"Reek of drunk. Shut up," Cassandra grew tired of Jason's spout. All she wishes is for him to stay, be safe, but the more he talks, the more he can hear how desperate he is to avoid everything that is here, "No," she pressed her fingers on his chest, the chest that had a red symbol of what seem like a Bat, "Killing!" She again pressed harder.

She so badly wants to help, heal him, make him better, to what Peter and the rest of her family was trying to do when he came back to Gotham 3 years ago. However, she doesn't have the same connection with Jason as the rest of them, and Cassandra can safely say, it's often a bit hostile to one another because Cassandra never really liked Jason. And she personally feels he doesn't like her too.

Yet, she wants to be above that, and still help him. She then felt Peter's hand on his shoulder, shaking his head, telling her it wasn't worth it, not right now that is. Listening to him, she let Jason pass, and everyone that cared about him couldn't help but watch him walk, "So that's it?!" Dick said, "Let him walk like that?"

"Dick, not now please. It's been a rough night for everyone," Barbara said.

"When isn't it rough for us? He shouldn't walk away from us, we need him!"

"How surprising you agree with me Richard."

"Talia, shut the fuck up!" He shouted when stomping on her.

"Enough!" Peter shouted, letting his voice echo, and standing before Dick. The two adults, of similar height glared at one another with heated intention. One where Peter had enough of how Dick has been acting, and Dick being sick and tired of Peter getting in his way like this, "Dick please! Enough of the arguments and fighting with all of us. And Talia," he turned to her, "Stop instigating him! We need all hands on deck right now and all this bickering won't help."

"Peter is right. Our focus is on the mission, emotions shouldn't correspond to the mission," Bruce spoke.

"Everyone should sleep for…Tomorrow," Cassandra mentioned, "All tired, at each other's throats."

"Hmph," Dick walked his own way without saying a word, leaving everyone to their own thoughts.

---

Jason found his way out the manor, calling his vehicle over here as he waited patiently. He found a bottle of vodka in the kitchen that he took for himself to drink as he waited in the night air. His head was hazy, pounding with a migraine, yet he didn't care that he was only seeping into a more of a drunk state. Then again, he was more sober than earlier thanks to his capture and fighting.

All he had to do was not barf up a storm in the meantime.

"Jason?" Hearing name called out by a familiar English man. Jason turns his head to see Alfred right by the entrance of the mansion. Unlike with the Bat family, Jason's expression softens at seeing Alfred, especially with bandages of such that displayed he was injured, "A-are you alright Master Todd?"

He couldn't help but smile at seeing the elderly butler once more, "Never better Alfred!" He saluted with the alcohol in hand before drinking it. Letting go, he frowned, "Who the hell did that to you?"

Alfred, doing what was right, walked up to him in the cold night air with only a few clothes on, and took the alcohol away from him, "That's enough of that."

"Hey! I wasn't done with that."

"I don't need to see you drowning yourself in misery!" Just like Cassandra, his own eyes narrow at the sight of Jason state, towering over him with being clearly drunk, "With everything you've been through, it's no excuse to make it easier and get yourself killed."

"Aacctualy," Jason put his fingers up, his words becoming a bit lucid due to him being drunk, "It makes fighting…A challenge."

Alfred couldn't shake his head, seeing this once kid that he had hoped to overcome his anger, trauma in the form of robin, to only have died, and come back to killer, yet, was trying to get better, to this sad excuse he is now. A person who's only living to die, not just simply living for the right reasons, "Jason. This isn't the way. This isn't what we are trying to teach you."

"I…DON'T GIVE A FUCK! IT'S MY LIFE" Jason shouted into Alfred face, "I CAN DO WHATEVER I WANT! AND IF I DIE. SO BE IT!"

"Gwen wouldn't want to see you like this."

Jason took a step back, hearing her name, remembering who she was, what she meant to him, had his eyes widened, and his head pointing down to the ground, "...If Peter can't stand the sight of me then she wouldn't either…But she's not here…. So it's good she can't see me like this…Or even see Peter move on."

Jason would walk away from Alfred, walk away from his family, walk away from his past. To only walk further down a lonely, self destructive path. Because in the end, he's only asking to die again, nothing more and nothing less.

---

Kasady was clad in symbiote, letting his symbiote roam freely and take everything that was straight raw meat in this meat factory he's only residing in for a short time, "YES! MORE! I CAN FEEL IT! THE MASS! IT'S GROWING!"

Meanwhile, his partner sat amongst the dead workers that laid around the factory, she saw she had gotten a message on her phone that someone had just arrived at their location, "Babe! He's here!"

Hearing her, he would stop his symbiote from being imbued in more mass; he felt strong, strong enough that he can release all this pent up energy in a fight, but that wouldn't be the plan, not for now at least. He smirk took a large leap that led right outside the entrance of this meat factory located at the end of Old Gotham.

A white regular car pulled up as Kasady let his suit converge himself back into a civilian-like state. What was unexpecting was to see another normal civilian coming out the vehicle, "Come on, I show who I am, you show me who you are," The person didn't answer, but a touch of his belt, brought out smoke for a brief second before it showcase his real form, the chameleon, Dimtri, "Playing both sides is a dangerous game Chameleon, you got balls bigger than supes!"

Dimitri didn't answer, but opened the van, revealing a tie up familiar red hair that was MJ, who looked to be unconscious, "My mizzsion ist de spider. I'lz do whazt's necessary to kill him."

Kasady could only smirk as he played with MJ's hair, watching how peaceful she looks like in her sleep. He knows the many things he could do to her in this position, but he won't.

Instead, he has little game in mind for the spider. And well, he won't let Dimitri have his way with the spider when it comes down to it.

Shriek jogged to them, wrapping her arms around Kasady's neck, "Huh, the Spider knows this actress? Guy knows his way with women."

"He's a charmer," his smirk grew, "One of the many things I love about him. She'll go well with the cat in the bag."

Chapter 16: Bury

November 22

The morning had come, easing into the bedroom that had the Bat and the Spider lay half naked; Peter with boxer's, and Cassandra with a bra and Peter's own boxers. The bed sheets cover them up as it had been a long day and a long week for everyone including the two heroes. Both at least had some time to make up for and at the same time gaining some semblance of sleep.

Peter did have to convince Cassandra to wear something appropriate after their sexual activities since they were no longer the only two in the manor anymore. To which she hated, but had to oblige since she had experiences of causing people awkwardness with her being comfortable walking around naked. Realistically though, there's a matter of duties that needed attending too, and that involves their city needing protection more than ever. It's why Peter felt his body awaken, slowly and surely, no longer feeling the soreness of the coma, or the brain fog that had clouded his head since awakening. He honestly felt good, really good when his hazel eyes opened. He couldn't quite explain it properly to himself; he knows his mind felt a lot less weighty, still worrying about a lot, but it felt more clearer than a week and a half ago. He felt energized, ready to take on the day, and he felt oddly happy.

The therapy session was having its effects on Peter, and for him? It's been so long since he felt his mind be fully clear that he forgot what it was like to focus on the here and now, and not the past. But it wasn't to say he hasn't been happy, or stopped being happy. It's been quite complicated when it came to those territories, and this allowed Peter to find himself looking at the woman he has been with for well over 2 years, going to 3 soon. He won't deny the ups and downs they have been through, especially more recently, but they're getting through it slowly but surely. Peter once thought he knew just enough about her to say that he not only can be absolutely happy with her, that he would know what to do when they both have problems with each other.

But he was so wrong at that. 2 years doesn't indicate that everything is gonna be sunshine and rainbows forever. Just because they were comfortable, happy, and barely had as many arguments compared to recent times, doesn't indicate that they'll stay like that forever. Peter couldn't help but frown on that idea itself, 'I couldn't believe that I was so ignorant that the woman in front of me wouldn't have as much trouble as any other women I've been with... That no matter what, we won't fight, argue, and just talk things through with words,' Peter frown, remembering the recent argument they had, and also remembering moments where he played a part in causing the rift between them, 'Even when we started, I wasn't always there for her...Off doing bigger superhero things instead of putting my focus on her and Gotham. It wasn't bad by no means, but now I saw I was not only just disturbing the balance I had, but selfishly thought the world needs me...When really my neighborhood and the people in it needed me more,' he summarized the problematic parts to himself, the problems he overlooked and shy away from, 'Then when Alfred and Dick came back, with Dick advising me to push forward, I selfishly wanted to eat my cake both ways. I wanted her to live outside of being Batwomen just as I try to fix my own problems somehow. It didn't matter if she closed off her feelings for reasons I'm aware of, I shouldn't have pushed the way I've done. Not when I needed to put in more work for her to feel comfortable again with her feelings, and allowing myself to put more balance into who I am, something she desperately wanted.'

As his mind dug deeper to issue's he never addressed to himself, he knew why he didn't want to put in the work to be who he should be, who he even used to be once upon a time, '...May dying change too much. I pushed away everyone again, said some cruel things to Charlotte, Ben, Kaine, Jessica, and Mattie that made sure most of them wanted nothing to do with me, and if I hadn't been away from Cassandra and the Bat family enough, I was then. I didn't want balance, I wanted to be Spider-Man to distract myself, save people since I wasn't...' Peter felt his mind stopping at that moment, cringing and frowning hard as he didn't want to keep digging the impact his mother figure had on him, and he knows that's a door he has to open when the time come's, '..But with her death, leading to me not being there for everyone in the Bat family, and for a time I was wearing the black symbiote? There felt no point of having some sense of balance, just enough to have Peter exist, but it was Spider-Man that needed to stay active in the open.'

Meanwhile for Cassandra, she hadn't had a real fight till recently that tested her to survive and live on. She couldn't see a life outside of what she wanted to be, since all she ever wanted to be was the Bat, to one day replace Bruce. In her half sleep, deep down she had a feeling she would never have gained the mantle as she did if her family wasn't all but broken by Joker. It could've been anyone else, anyone that was physically and mentally better than her. Yet, it didn't happen, allowing her to gain what she wanted, and not with the kind of pride and honor she wanted to have. Now for being Batwomen for a whole year, she still struggles in his shadow, still struggles to find her purpose with the symbol, still struggles to give reason to people to believe in what she represents, and most of all, still struggles to be her own hero, her own person.

And what's so terribly ironic between the Bat and the Spider was that they both hadn't been living for sometime. Their body was physically moving, doing things like they're supposed to, but if it wasn't being a hero, or being around one another and with others they're close too, then mentally they were checked out from existence. In this moment, Peter realized how much the both of them had been burying so many problems that it had taken a number of effects on them. With their problems overwhelming them, it's only hurting who they are, hurting each other, and hurting others in the process, 'Just like me, when things get tough, Cassandra buries her problems for others and what's important. It shows how strong we are when it comes down to it, but also reflects how poorly we manage ourselves at the end of the day,' Peter hands gently started rubbing his girlfriend's skin, back and forth on her back, to her arms, and hand. He can feel her goosebumps coming alive, making him smile slightly at the effect his touch does to her, '..And I want to be better because I have too. I'm 27, pushing 30 soon. I'm not 15 when I first started this for the sole purpose of helping those that Bruce can't help. I'm not 20 when I thought I had things figured out as I was getting older and stronger. I'm not 23 where I wanted to call it quits with how much stuff I have to keep going through over and over. Nor am I 26 where I became the person I hated and kept making the same mistakes as to not move forward, but to move backwards when my whole world crumbled for a thousand times,' Peter hands glided to her hair, playing with the strands, 'I'm 27. With the good, will come the bad times, no point in trying to stop it when I can't foresee it. The only thing I know I can do is be me, and just keep helping everyone, so it also means I need to be a better person than I am right now, for the people I value, and for myself most importantly.'

And Peter knows Cassandra is likely in the same boat. From what she shared about her conversation with Mary Jane, the talks with Talia, her family, and even the stunt gone wrong in Trigate bridge, Cassandra wants to be better and stronger than she is right now.

Cassandra basil eyes open, slowly, kissing her boyfriend's hands, then his arms, neck, pulling him just a bit closer to get her more comfortable with the man she loves, and adding a small kiss to his lips. She loved how he responded, love the light chuckles he gets when she kisses him all over, and she even likes how excited she can get him just by doing the simple gestures she often does when they're comfortable like this, "...Morning," she said as she went back to kissing his lips, to which Peter again responded back, letting it last just a bit longer. Neither cared for morning breath as they've both tasted worse things than this. Pulling away, Cassandra noticed his hazel eyes while steady on her, were slightly out of focus even if he was smiling at her. Regardless of knowing he's been thinking about something, she let herself smile as they stared at one another with their heads still on the pillow they were on, "What are you thinking?"

"Just…A Lot," he plainly said, pushing more of her stranding hair aside, and letting her hold his hands. Cassandra again kissed it gently as she watched him, waited for him to speak on what's bothering him, "...I thought because you were different from the couple of people I've been with that it meant we wouldn't…Have bad moments. I know I shouldn't compare you to others but I couldn't help it. I mean… You were everything I wasn't expecting to have in my life, but at the same time. was good for me," he let the bridge of his nose touch her when he closed his eyes, taking in her scent mixed with his as she did the same, "...I thought with you being the kind person that I can be with meant things would be different, because you understand me without saying you do. But…I was wrong, and I forgot that being in a relationship means there will be hurdles, a barrier that both people will have to get through. Just being with someone as good as you made me forget all that, and it reminded me that it takes two to make things go right.."

Cassandra listened as she always did, gently again letting her lips take in her boyfriend's lips. It never got tiring for her nor Peter to show each other this type of affection when it's mostly just the two of them. In fact, they didn't need to say why, how, or when they fell for each other. Because this was their way they showed. Cassandra pulled her lips away from Peter, opening her eyes as she wanted to look upon the man she grew to admire and love all at the same time, "..I know… I…" She felt her heart beating just a bit faster. She hadn't felt this feeling in sometime, sure it was back in October, when it involved being around in public involving Bruce and Selina's acquaintances. Yet, Cassandra doesn't often feel this kind of feeling like a normal person would.

Nervousness, the clear utter fact of being nervous.

She was nervous to tell Peter how she felt, how she really felt, how she'd been feeling for some time since becoming Batwomen, maybe even longer than she realized it. And him? With his hazel eyes open, watching her, waiting patiently for her to be open to her? Cassandra had to wonder for herself how she ever obtained him? How did she let this man tangle her in a web she can't quite escape?

It was obvious of course; from how he fought when he was undoubtedly frightened sometimes, then it was how he was always able to conquer the dire moments that even she couldn't do without him, and then she saw more when he wasn't wearing the mask, 'Patience and smart...So smart to help me learn to..Talk. Took the time to understand me, my movement's, ticks...So he could speak with me...But then he had moments, sad moments. Mistakes, misfortune, failure, blames himself,' Cassandra reflected to herself about the man in front of her, 'As great as he is...He was a loner...I understood that...It's why, I wanted him to be closer with family, even if he couldn't see...Himself with us as family. But he did,' a small smile lifted her face as she thought of the small impacts she had on Peter, 'Moment we lay eyes on...Each other, first time fighting together as Bat and the Spider, we were attracted by similarities and empa..thy with one another..Pulled us closer.'

And with that pull, they went from partners, to friends, to the best of friends, and to being lovers. Cassandra knows why he's still here, why he still wants to be here for her after knowing the little bit of truth of what's going on with her. As ever, her speedy heart that beats from her nervousness swells at how he stood by her once more, 'Wasn't afraid of who I was born from, what I did before becoming Batgirl. Stood by my side to gain the approval from Bruce, to be patient around Barbara.. Was there before, and now, when I all I want to do...Is fight and die...Doing what I want to do, what I love...To do,' she hated admitting the last part, something she tried avoiding, something she tried burying, but she can't, 'Still here...Have to do the same,' she proclaim to herself, 'MJ is right, he won't give up on me, and I can't either...Have to be better. No longer a child who killed...Child who ran away from father and was alone. No longer a teenager looking for...Place to call home...People to call family...No longer a young adult when I found a calling, found a family, had an idea...How criminal, villains work...Or how I can be happy forever,' Cassandra took a deep breath in, steadying her heartbeat, ready to come to terms with who she needs to be, 'I am an adult...Things will happen out of my control, won't always be happy, but won't forget...How much I change because of family.'

Cassandra was ready to take the first step forward, her step forward, her choice, no one else, "...I'm sorry. I…Want to die… Not because I don't want to…Live… I am," her one hand tap where her heart is, "I'm alive… But fighting hasn't been the same…And I…" She forced herself to keep focus on Peter, she forced her own body to stay still and not move an inch, she forced herself to not run, but take her own lead and keep going forward, "...I want to fight as I have before. Fight, almost dying, but fight. This war…Is what I needed, wanted…" her lips quivered, her voice becoming smaller and smaller as she became more open.

Yet Peter never let go of her, and only simply strengthened himself closer to her. He again brushed his hands along her hair, let his fingers, thumbs, brush along her soft cheeks, and he kept his silence but also never lost his sight of the woman who was being open to what she had been feeling.

No, he isn't forcing her this time. He simply stayed silent, already said his part, and now he listens. Taking a page out of her book, "...I'm becoming like her Peter, feel it…" Now tears began trickling out of Cassandra eyelids, "...I'll end up like my father, know it…" the tears began pouring, "...I don't want to end up like Bruce, can see it…" Peter's hands would rub away the tears from her eyelid, as her own hands held onto the back of his hands, desperate to hold, desperate to cling on, "I'm scared. I'm scared that while this is all I want to be, I'm scared that this is all I'll ever be. And I'm scared that you will leave me, that everyone will leave me. I'm scared that I'm not enough. I'm scared that I'll die alone. I'm scared that I won't be a mother," she couldn't take it anymore, all this feeling she felt, all this feeling she was releasing, all this terrible feeling that she locked deep with inside her, she couldn't take it and shove herself into Peter's chest, removing her own hands from his own to wrap around his body as the tears won't stop no matter how much Peter tried to stop it, "I'm scared, I'm scared, I'm scared, I'M SCARED, I'M SCARED, I'M SO FUCKING SCARED PETER. I DON'T WANT TO DIE! I WANT TO LIVE! I DON'T WANT TO BE MY MOTHER! MY FATHER! NOR BRUCE! I WANT TO BE ME! BUT I DON'T KNOW WHO I AM WITHOUT THE BAT! I'M SO FUCKING SCARED PETER…I'M SO SCARED…"

Her cries were loud, she didn't hold back. She cried loud, hard, into Peter's chest, and Peter himself could only hold her tightly as she released her anguish, the fear of reality that she's now only confronting. Because now? Peter knew this was coming, all this was buried deep that she never let out, never told him, but he knew that the dilemma between being the Bat and finding herself without the bat would come at some point.

She always struggled with that aspect, and even though she once tried to give herself a life outside of being the Bat, it only blew up in her face because of the Joker. Since then, she didn't want to revisit it, and Peter could relate. There were so many times he quit being Spider-Man, quit being Peter to simply be Spider-Man, and that's what he has been doing in recent times. But like many times before, he always realized at the end of the day, they're the same person, the same people. And the only way to handle both lives was to balance both worlds, but balance wasn't easy to do.

He falters.

Stumble so many times.

Couldn't ask other heroes for advice because some weren't in the same position, or had powers to make it easy.

And even now, he's still learning to keep his life balance as much as possible. It's not great, but it's always been a process, not a goal he can complete on a whim. He knows he can do it so long as he puts his mind to it. So when the time comes, when Cassandra is ready, he'll be there for her to step into the light and embrace the sun more than the darkness, "..I'm here. I'll always be here Cassandra," he kissed the top of her forehead as her cries began to waning down and only her sniffles could be heard, "I'm not going anywhere, nor will I ever go anywhere Cassandra. I will never leave you, never. I promise."

Those two words made her clutch tighter onto Peter, to make a promise like that means the world to her. And that's what makes her terrified of that, because what they do for a living could mean that one of them would die by some twisted fate.

Yet, she trusts Peter, she trusts his every word, and she knows he won't break a promise, "..Ok…"

It was then their door opened up. Peter looked to see Bruce, Alfred with Barbara being pushed in, all looking worried at the two, "...Is everything ok?" Bruce asked, the first to ask, the first to worry.

The first person that started this all, the crusade, and also the first person who should always be there for the people that matter to him. Peter gave a small smile as he looked at all three, while gently rubbing Cassandra's shoulder as she still hid herself from them, "Yeah…Everything is.. going to be ok."

Barbara and Alfred couldn't help but share their smile when he said that. Because just like that, they're reminded of the hope Peter brings in the darkest of times, "We can stay if you both don't mind?" Barbara gently asked, not wanting to intrude on a breakthrough that Peter managed to do, just by being Peter.

Peter didn't answer, looking down to Cassandra as he waited for her reply. Cassandra would slowly remove herself a bit from his chest. Wiping the tears from her eyes, she looked to the first Batgirl, the one who taught her just as much of how to connect to civilization as Peter did, the aged butler, who was the first to show her such immeasurable compassion and that wasn't far different from the people she would get to know. And even Bruce, the first positive person she looked up to and aspires to be because of a symbol he spent years creating.

She nods, regardless of her feelings with Bruce, regardless of how strain it is and a work in progress their relationship is, she wants him to be there for her just as much as everyone else. Alfred would take a seat in the middle of the bed, Bruce would help Barbara sit near Cassandra, while Bruce simply stood in their presence.

Or wanted to, until Cassandra touched his hands, getting his attention, and gestured to him to sit near Barbara. He was shocked to say the least, first accepting his presence, and now wanting him to be just a bit closer.

He did so. They all listened as Cassandra reopened all that she told Peter, and while she wished the likes of Dick, Jason, Tim, and Stephanie were here. This would suffice for the time being, she was just glad to have everyone here. But more importantly, glad that she took a more positive step forward into making her own choices.

---

Jason woke up from his bed, simply because his stomach felt upset, and when his stomach felt like that it meant that he needed to get the hell up. He hopped off from the bedroom, finding it too heavy to move as he was in hangover mode, but still pushed himself back to his feet as he rushed to the bathroom to throw up in the sink.

It went on like this for a good few minutes, him rinsing his mouth, and vomiting some more. He hated the hangovers, he hated feeling nauseous from it all, but as he looked at himself in the mirror; tired, hazy, that J mark forever scarred on the left side of his cheek, the number of scars he had from head to his own body as he was shirtless and only wore some shorts, the bruises he had from his beating that were bandaged up, and above all else, the jaded look in his eyes that he had since coming back to the living. He knows why he's doing this to himself, he knows Why he's so hell bent on torturing himself when it wasn't long ago that he was recovering, he might've still been killed, but being around the Bat family had softened him like it had in the past.

But of course, what Joker did to him and his family change that, maybe even harden him compare to when he risen from the dead 7 years ago, "The fuck you looking at…?" He told himself directly from the mirror itself, "Can't stay dead, no one wants you dead, and people can't look to kill you because they need you…." Jason briefly looked away, "...I don't wanna live," he turned back to the mirror, looking upon himself once more as he gazed harder, "Do you hear me? I DON'T WANT TO LIVE!" He then punch the glass mirror, cracking it, he had his hands wrap in bandages that didn't had his knuckle bleed, but now the mirror was cracked in a way that disfigure Jason, creating a damage picture of Jason's mental state, "...Better," he frowned, it didn't make him feel better as he thought it would have.

He sighs to himself, the water in the sink cleared up the mess he made so he ended up washing his face and head back to his bedroom. It wasn't anything remarkable as the place he resides in was good enough to simply sleep, have a stake out, keep himself energized with a fridge and stove to make food, and have a place where he keeps his gear. All thanks to the person who helped him come back into the living, 'No matter if Al Ghul did right by me keeping me away from her father...She should've left me dead as I was, instead of trying to make Bruce feel better,' he would go to the fridge to get himself some water and energy drink to stay hydrate it, while also getting whatever left over food he had from day before to eat. He would drink, and chow down his food while standing, letting his thoughts wonder once more, 'But then again, the bitch made me into an assassin, almost as deadly as Slade Wilson if I were to boast my ego about it. She allowed me to see the world through her eyes, seeing how it really is, and how in the end, I'm not so different from her,' he frowned, 'I may hate her, but I owe her a lot. I'm able to do what I need to do to protect the innocent. Yet it's tragic what being dead and coming back to living means in general,' just as his thought was running a mile on the concept of what death and coming back from it does to a person, his eyes glaze to a picture that he kept with him. It was stuck on the fridge showcasing himself, Peter, and Gwen when they were younger. As always, he looked annoyed, but Jason knew how happy he was when Gwen pulled him and Peter close to her for a picture, 'I found out things change, people change. Everyone grew up without me, got hurt without me, some died without me knowing and I couldn't do a damn thing,' Jason then sighed as he turned away from the picture to continue feeding himself, 'Should've never accepted that picture from Peter.'

---

9 Years ago

Coney island, NYC

Peter had swung not only Gwen, but Jason to Coney island that resided in Brooklyn, New York. Jason wasn't enthusiastic about holding onto Peter's neck just as he was, while Gwen held onto shoulder to shoulder as Peter kept her situated on him. It was the summer time with people out and about having fun on rides, games, and overall with other people. Just like adults, a lot of teenagers were out and about in Coney island due to school being out until another few weeks.

It also helps that this was a special day for Jason, but not so when Peter found a place to land hidden away from other people. Upon landing, Jason barf right away while Gwen had to stifle in a laughter with how poor Jason's own stomach couldn't take the constant motion of Peter swing, "It's so weird that you have motion sickness Jason! Even when you do way more hero stuff than me."

Jason took off his domino mask, narrowing his eyes as he had his bent back from vomiting while looking back at Gwen, "...You swing with Parker more than I do. AND I DON'T HAVE MOTION SICKNESS!"

Peter shushed him, seeing as he had his spider costume and didn't want to draw attention, "Can we all undress first before we start shouting!" Jason and Gwen eyed him weirdly, more so Jason's since he didn't have a mask on like Gwen did, but the way her head tilted suggested it was so. Peter took off his mask, sweating a lot due to how hot it was and eye rolling, "You know what I mean!"

Again, Gwen giggle as she took off her own mask that was almost similar to Peter's just without the web pattern, it being all white, and her wearing a white hoodie, "Say pause or no homo, that's how Flash or his pals call you out for that," Peter response was a groan as each took off what they had on to be in more comfortable clothing and stuff it in their bags.

For Peter, he wore his Spider-Man clothes over his baggy shirt, baggy pants, worn out sneakers. It helped disguise his overall look so no one knew who he was, along with his big round glasses too.

Gwen just had to take off the hood, mask, and long pants. She wore a tank top that had Green day's American idiot album on display, short black leggings, and put on a sneaker she had to tie for herself.

Jason only needed to take off his own hoodie over his head. Unlike Gwen or Peter, he didn't really care much if people were to even try to find out if he was Robin. Because how would they? He's a nobody from Gotham, no one knows or cares about him to that extent.

Except for a few, like Peter and Gwen. And speaking of Gwen, he noted how muscular she had gotten over the 3 years they've gotten to know each other. Both her arms and legs were now defined, and the belly that was out in the open had some abs being shown. Jason felt himself smirk, 'She's really serious with Barbara's training huh? Expect nothing-' his eyes slightly widen, and eyebrow raised, he noticed not only a piercing on her belly, but also a spider tattoo on her shoulders, "When the fuck did you get a tattoo?!" Jason blatantly shouted, not caring about the piercing not one bit since she had smaller one's on her ear's.

Gwen was putting on her usual headband that fit snugly on her shorter hair when Jason asked about it, "Oh this?" she shrugs, "Knew a person from my gigs who offered free tattoos just because my band carried the show."

Jason then eyed Peter curiously who was just now zipping up his bag to have his and Gwen's clothing in it, "And you just let a random bozo give her a tattoo?"

"Hey I tried talking her out of it but," he added with his hands up, "Her choice. If it helps, her dad yelled at her that the whole neighborhood could hear it."

"Dick!" She slapped Peter arms for that comment, only serving to make him chuckle, "I told you not to tell anyone!"

"This is Jason, he doesn't care."

"Still!"

"And since when did you care? I thought you wanted to show it off to the world since we're going to college soon?"

"Stop twisting my own words!"

Peter couldn't help but grin and brought her his arms over her shoulder, "You make it easy oh rebel Gwendy."

Jason watched on through the bickering they had, a small smile began creeping up his lip. He won't deny it, but these two had been a breath of fresh air away from the cave, away from the mansion, away from Bruce and his partners, and away from being Robin. He thought he didn't need them, hell, he made that clear with Peter multiple times, but today like this, he realized he does need them. He becomes calm, happy, less angry, and overall more positive than he's ever been.

It doesn't help that he also enjoys when Gwen picks a fight with Peter other than him, like slightly rebuffing his arms away from her and looking pissed when she really isn't. It becomes too irritating to do it on his own or deal with Gwen, unlike for Peter, who would make fun of her trying so. Though Jason was aware Peter didn't have this much of a backbone compared to before he got his powers, in fact he would be more shy and have a harder time with the sly comebacks.

"And let's not forget the piss poor job you did taking care of my injury!"

"Oh that you clearly beg me to take care of you, 'Oh Gwen! Please, my back aches from fighting scorpion. I don't care what you do, just help!" Gwen said, deepening her tone to inmate Peter.

Peter almost didn't find a word between his bashful expression and slight stutter coming out from his lip, "I-I… Don't even sound like that!"

"Ha! Lame comeback!"

"Shut up!"

Jason shook his own head, seeing that Peter still has that shyness that dampens his comeback quips with Gwen, 'Odd.. I tried to make some move on Gwen because it was obvious to most she was a spunk. Even she knows it herself that she does show it from time to time. But, her eyes never found its way to me, nor any other bozo that wanted to be with her or have a taste of her. If they try, to which some have tried, then she'll kick their asses, or taser them since I can clearly see it pocketed behind her pants. Either way, her eyes had always been for Peter. I never knew why since she never openly told me how she felt about Peter. Only a few words that demonstrate it sure, but learning from the world's greatest detective meant picking up a few things. And the most important thing I learned was that the eyes never lie, and the way she looked at him was different to anyone else. Therefore, I respect it. I know I have my moments, but I won't be an asshole to move between them,' Jason said all to himself, 'Though Parker is too fucking oblivious and needs to do something, and since it's my birthday...'

Jason already has a plan in motion, something that'll make sure to make today grand for everyone since they're here for him mostly, "Enough you two! Even on my birthday you two just love to talk spat to each other. Kiss and make up or something!"

Jason's comment got an interesting reaction to it. Both stared at Jason, each likely picture a dagger stabbing into him for various reasons. Gwen was blushing, while Peter was seething, "Shut the hell/fuck up Jason!" Peter and Gwen both said simultaneously with different curses.

"Fine! Can we just go on those rides then go back to the slums of Gotham?" He asks more in a sarcastic tone.

Peter felt his hand smack his forehead, "Told you this was a bad idea Gwen."

Gwen's response to Peter was gesturing to him to zip his mouth as she dragged the two more closer into Coney island.

For the next few hours they spent in Coney island; they did various and fun things that made Jason's birthday more and more memorable than Peter and Gwen realize. They played games that won them prizes, miniature versions of not only Gotham vigilante, but also other heroes too. Some got Jason ticked off because no matter how accurate he has gotten when it came bullseyeing targets with a projectile, it seemed these games deny it all together. Jason would get pissed and storm out, damming the person who didn't want him to win a prize. Yet instead of staying pissed, he was having a ball at seeing Peter get frustrated enough that he used his own strength just to win, but didn't win at all besides arguing. Somehow, Gwen was quite aggressive when it came to bumper cars, bouncing from Jason and Peter, raming at the two all together. Not even the Spectacular Spider-Man nor the high flying Robin couldn't have their own competition because of Gwen. But it did help that they called it truce just to put Gwen down a notch.

Poor Gwen would end up finding herself getting bamboozled by Gotham's vigilante that not even the training from Batgirl could save her.

Then there were the ride's. It wasn't as exciting as the trio thought it would be; from the many times they were put in dangerous positions like Gwen having to jump off a roof just so Peter could save her, the many times Jason had to use his grapnel gun at the last second to save his behind, or the every day scenario of Peter swinging, roller coaster rides wasn't as fun as they thought it would be.

Jason had his arm cross and a bored expression as he, Peter and Gwen got off the ride. Peter tried to look a bit more optimistic compared to Jason and the frown that was on Gwen's face, "Well that was…" Peter would scratch behind his brown hair, one that looked to be in good care with the sides and back being faded from a recent haircut he did and him learning how to fix his hair from the mask, "Fun?"

"That was boring as hell."

"So boring Peter, don't beat around the bush," she bumped his shoulders while holding her hands behind her back as she walked aimlessly with her friends, "We still could go ride a few more rides before the sun would set."

"You know, you guys didn't need to do all this right?" Jason brought up, gaining the two people's attention as the sun's orange outlook gazed over Coney island, "I'm 18, so what? Just means I'm an adult, older than you both."

"Hey/Hey!"

"But also it's another day like any other," he continued on without being fazed from their interruptions, "Only that we all are…Actually having fun outside of Gotham."

"Because why not?" Peter spoke, slightly shocking Jason as he didn't think he would say something of that nature, more so Gwen would, "You deserve to have a birthday where it isn't just fighting, being with Bruce, Alfred, and Barbara, or being alone. Why not spend time with people your age?"

Gwen grinned ear to ear at Peter's statement, "Plus! We're all going to college too in a few weeks!" Gwen caught Jason scoffing, and she then proceeded to put him in a headlock that Jason could've stopped from happening, but let it happen anyways, "You better accept Bruce's offer! You're coming to college with us you ass!"

She then gave him a noogie, one that got Peter to chuckle at her torture antics, and Jason rather annoyed from it, "Ugh! Alright alright!" Satisfied with his answer, Jason was let go by Gwen, "Still don't see a point of going to college. What am I gonna study there? What use would it be for me to go there? Especially Gotham university of all places. The rich tend to maneuver there more than us."

"If you wanna be technical Jason-"

"Don't fucking bring up the fact I live a mansion."

"Alright then I won't," Peter would go silent for a second during their walk, "But you do live in a better home."

"God damn it Parker!"

"And that's my cue to go use the bathroom because I drank too much water!"

"And who's fault was that?" Gwen asked with her eyebrow raised at Peter's direction.

"Scorpion!"

While Peter headed to the bathroom, Jason soon had an idea that he needed to talk with Peter, "Huh, gotta take a shit."

"Oh yay!" Gwen threw hands in the air, faking her annoyance that amused Jason to no end, "Just go and leave me alone here! What do I care."

Jason snorted, "Gwen you'll be fine, stuff yourself with some cotton candy."

"That I will!"

Jason quickly jogged up to meet with Peter, catching up to him relatively fast by the man's bathroom, "Parker hold that piss up real quick."

Peter whipped his head to Jason, staring at him dumbfounded, "You crazy? You want me to pee my good pants here?!"

Jason eyed his pants for a second before looking back up to the almost 18 year old science nerd of the once and now graduated from Gotham high, "Dude, you don't have good pants and you always chose the terrible one's so people don't know that you can bench press a truck. Which, to your credit, doesn't make you standout, but also keeps you in the lines of being an outcast amongst the peers."

Peter eyebrow furrowed at that laid out response, "You're an outcast too dude. No one liked you as much as they didn't like me for just being a know it all and the fact that I'm friends with Gwen who everyone liked and wanted to get with."

He shrugs with his hands in his pocket, "That's because I got into a lot of fights so that they don't fuck with me, and hell, it helped you a lot too. I never understood how even with your powers you didn't fight back since you could do it in a way that doesn't make it apparent."

"If I wanted the glory and to showcase how strong I am, to which I briefly did when I got my powers, then I wouldn't wear a mask nor do my best to keep it a secret from everyone," Peter then frowned, "Including to some who are close to me."

And this is one of the big reasons why Jason respected Peter, the first thing in fact. With all his powers, he could've let ego and selfishness win that would've morphed him to an unlikable person, one that he likely would've hunted down and stopped. But tragedy struck close to home, losing his uncle changed him and taught him that with the power he has, means there's responsibility to be held of those powers.

Jason didn't understand at first, asking Bruce didn't help either since he wanted him to learn how to read and understand people on his own. But doing so, getting to know Peter more and more, had bred more respect for the person in front of him. He still finds him intolerable to be around sometimes, but things have gotten more and more tolerable, something he didn't want to admit, "Is this the talk we're having that's stopping me from pissing Jay!" Peter slightly raised his voice before hopping in place as he tried to hold his bladder.

Jason shook his head before placing a hand on Peter's shoulder, "No short stack," he grin at Peter's eyes glaring at the small jab to their height difference that is becoming more and more apparent, "You're gonna ask out Gwen before any of those asswipes in college does so." Peter's cheek tinted, now looking quite shock of what Jason brought up, "I'm tired of seeing you both eye fuck each other, and as for my one and only birthday wish…" Jason took a deep breath in and out, because this would be the most sincere he would be around someone that wasn't Alfred, Bruce or Barbara, "...I want to see my two friends, Peter and Gwen, together, like really together. Not just…Two people helping out others, or me, and even Bruce if it came to it. No, I want to see you two be happy with one another."

Peter was at a loss for words because in the 3 years of knowing Jason, he sure did have some moments of being somewhat sincere but he quickly went straight back to being a jackass. But this was the first time Peter heard real, true, sincerest in his voice, and he really meant it because he didn't back track from his own birthday wish, and called him by his first name which too was rare, "..I…I don't kn-"

"Nope, you're gonna do it or I'll tell Gwen you like her."

"W-what!"

"Now I'm gonna take the meanest shit from all those corn dogs I ate!" Jason claps his shoulder before jetting to the bathroom, leaving Peter conflicted, confused, scared, but all the more, he was glad that Jason of all people approve of the two friends getting together.

After a few minutes of Jason taking a shit, probably hearing Peter muttering to himself as he took a piss, Jason would come out of the bathroom to go find his two friends.

And what did he find in the first place? Gwen kissing Peter, and Peter kissing Gwen.

Jason kept himself from bothering them, not wanting to intrude on their own odd way of confessing their feelings in public. If Jason were to guess, Peter asked her out, babbling about how he felt about her, Gwen didn't know what to do, and just went for it. The idea itself made Jason chuckled, 'I swear these two are an odd ball that they don't even know how to properly confess out rightly. But what do I know? I'm not even the romantic type.'

Still, it made Jason smile at seeing Peter gain some happiness. After all, he deserves it after how much work he's done to keep Gotham safe, 'I wonder if one day I'll find someone like that for me?' Jason shakes his head, 'Who knows? I'll be too busy kicking ass to know anyhow.'

---

Jason had finished refueling himself and was touching up his guns, sharpening up his sword so it won't be dull, and planning on ways to take down the Knight. He knew for a fact that they'll be prepared the next time he intrudes in their base. To him it's not an impossible task for him to go in and kill the leader, but he knows damn well there are a lot in there. Arm to the teeth with security and reinforcement that would've chopped him up if the Knight didn't spare his life. He couldn't help but scoff at the Knight letting him live. They could've killed him right there and then, but no, the Knight wanted him alive so they could make Bruce suffer.

Force him to be Batman once more, but the Batman who killed, not the Batman who shows mercy.

It helps that they had nowhere to go, they're stuck in their base of operation because they had everything they needed to survive and push on. So it means that Jason had time to plan something out, how much time until they move again is the real question. And with Peter now likely fully healed, it would be a matter of time until the Knight would go on to do something, but what they are going to do next was beyond him and that's something he needs to crack.

Jason heard someone rattle on the rooftop in his small apartment, he quickly pulled out a gun targeting the window, went prone on his bed as he waited for the person to show themselves. What he found was none other than Dick Grayson in his Nightwing uniform flipping himself in the window, and landed on his feet with ease, "You know that window could've been prime to blow right?" Jason said, putting his gun by his waist and going back to making sure his blade doesn't rust by using an oil of sorts with a towel keeping it well and prepared.

Dick took in the place that Jason designated his own hideout; bed's a mess, stench of alcohol and booze that made his nose twitch, lots of guns either composing together or lying around on tables and floors along with ammo. Heck it was the same thing with his costume lying from the bed, the desk, or the floor, and even the type of foods such as Chinese food or pizza boxes were laying around in his small kitchen.

Over all, it was mess just like he is, "True, but I made sure just incase," he lean by the nearby wall, legs crossed and arms cross as he watch Jason, "And you didn't therefore, you were expecting all types of visitors to pop in, especially those that wants you dead."

"Hey it keeps me on the edge, keeps me ready, and it's always a welcome occasion if someone wants me dead," Jason turned to Dick, "What do you want Dick? Kind of busy at the moment."

"Not even gonna ask how I track you?" Jason pulled a small tracker shape like a bat behind his armors legging, tossing it to him making Dick catch it, "Cassandra wanted to keep an eye on you since your back. Same as me," he said, pocketing the tracking device.

"Well I'm fine anyhow," putting the blade back into its sheath, Jason heard his laptop make a notification sound. Quickly grabbing it and checking on what alerted him, he saw something that already got him pissed, "Fuck," he muttered.

Yet Dick caught his sudden change in tone, "What?"

Jason looked to Dick then to his computer, debating if he should tell him the fact that his tracking device on one of the Knight vehicles had lost its connection rather suddenly. He knew if he did it might get Dick to leave him alone, or more curious and he would stay even longer, "...Nothing."

Dick scoffed, "Fine, don't tell me. But you're in Gotham and you should know," he leaned off the wall, "You can't be withdrawn from us, not when we need you just as you need us Jason."

The second he said that, Jason found that statement so ironic and Dick wasn't aware of it. Jason laughed loud and hard, causing Dick to stared at him confused at the oddities of his reaction, "...Jesus Dick, sound like the fake maniac I'm trying to kill," Jason experience quickly went from laughter to stoic, "I don't need any of you, and you all don't want me because you all don't like the fact that I do what's necessary to keep people safe."

"And that makes you so hypocritical because you know you kill one, another takes their place right?"

Jason eyebrow knitted together, "Same as putting them in jail, at least when I kill them they stay down!"

"And again, you're as hypocritical as the people you fight against. What's the point of fighting them when you're the same as them?" Dick pointed out.

"Gotta fight fire with fire if you truly want justice. And the hell do you know anything about me? Just because you were the first Robin doesn't mean you know jack squat about me."

"True, we weren't as close before you died. I tried to be, but I was too busy trying to find myself out of Bruce shadow and I'm sorry for that," Jason scoffed, "But I knew you were angry and eager to do more than just hurt someone," Dick said, his frown becoming more noticeable just as the clear disdain for Jason became more apparent, "I never understood how Bruce fess up with you, how Babs and Alfred took pity on a kid that grew up in the streets, or how Peter and his former girlfriend develop some type of friendship with you. You were always troubled, and somehow Talia's influence only made you more troublesome."

Jason stood up, already getting tired of Dick's high road route talk, "Of course you brought her up," Jason then made sure to be right in front of Dick, towering over him with the few inches of height he had on him, "Did I ask to be alive? Did ask for the bitch to be selfish so that way she can find another way to fuck Bruce? No! I didn't. I'm not her! But you know what? She showed me things that became clear to me, true justice can only be achieved by wiping the bastards that would prey on the innocent," his fingers pressed on the center of Dick's bird symbol on his chest, "Something none of you get, and that I thought Bruce had gotten….Till he went too far by hurting his friends... So don't act like you know me you drug addicted fuck," the second he said that, Dick forcibly push Jason away, it was enough to keep them distance and to even get Jason on a kneeling position, "Oh ho! Someone is sensitive. I'm guessing no one has dug further into your personality change?" Jason got up, "Or they can't quite accept the new, and improve, Dick."

Dick clench his fist, clench his jaw, and his face contorted in anger, "Doesn't matter if they know or you know. I'm doing what I have to do to make sure my family is safe."

"At the cost of your humanity. How pretentious you become by using venom as a way to keep yourself as graceful as you possibly can. It's the only type of drug that gives you the highs and lows so easily," Jason said, digging further and further into Dick's insecurity, "You judge me for what I am, but yet you can't accept when someone judges you for what your doing, and what you are," Jason held up a small smirk, "I bet Koriand'r wou-"

Jason didn't have time to react when Dick pushed forward and choked him by his throat as he pushed him to the wall, "Don't bring her up, unless you want to eat through a straw for the rest of your useless life," It was then Dick felt something poking at his rib, which was Jason pistol, "Go ahead, pull the trigger. Like it would make a difference and only keep you from being a killer with a Red Hood."

"...It won't….But…. I'm not afraid to put you down….If you become a danger to them."

Dick eyes slightly widened, hearing the smallest of both remorse and the need to protect his family made Dick let go of Jason, allowing him to properly breath. Dick could only look at his hand, the hand that gripped Jason, the hand that could've and would've killed him if he used enough force. He knew the consequence of using venom, no matter how refined it was, he knew it.

But he wanted to, needed to, and had to use it to get back to his original form, so he himself wouldn't be as useless as he was thanks to Joker.

Feeling shameful for his action, Dick left Jason alone, running and leaping out the window. Jason let out a sigh as he kept himself sitting on the floor and watched from the distance of Dick running along the rooftops of Gotham, "...What a Dick."

---

"Can you read it again?!"

"Again! Again!"

"Pleaseeeee!"

"Holly! Make Selina read it again!"

Selina held back a giggle at hearing the many kids beg her to read a story that she provided for them. When the world gets tough, or relationships become a struggle to cope and deal with, Selina likes to come back to the place she built and that gives her fulfillment that what she's doing was right and beautiful all together. And that was giving these kids, orphans such as herself once upon time, a place they can call home and develop meaningful friendship amongst similar kids. The one's Selina and Holly were handling were the very young kind; ranging between 4-9, "Ok ok, I'll do it just so I won't box Holly again."

Holly, who was busy knitting up a shirt she had in mind while sitting with the kids on a carpet. She shook her head, "Let's be real guys and gals, we all know Miss Kyle can whoop my toosh into next week if she wants too."

The various kids laugh at Holly's response while Selina simply eyeroll with her grin never leaving her face, "If I do read this again, you all better not skip Holly's boxing class then my stretching class afterwards you hear?" Some sulked at Selina's conditions, but most nodded and came to agreement with Selina, "Now…How did I say it again?" Selina asked herself, tapping the base of her chin as she sat cross legged in front of Holly and the orphans.

"OO! OO! You talked about how charming this knight was!" A girl said.

"Ew! She talked about how he kicked his a-" Selina and Holly eyebrow raised before the boy said anything. Knowing this, he stopped himself very quickly, "uh..Butt!"

"No no! She mentioned how she fell in love with him!"

"It seems you have a good start of how you wanna go about your story again, Miss Kyle," Holly spoke, with her endearing smile of hers.

Selina always appreciated Holly as a whole. The years did her well as she grew into a woman of her own stature; she might've kept her ginger hair short like hers, still wears a choker around her neck, and even still has that baby face when she first saw and rescue her from a cop that wanted to have his way with her. But again, Holly was in a good place, one that Selina can only hopefully believe it makes her happy and fulfilled as it does for her, "Ok ok! Now listen closely once again, or pay the price known to man. There once was a cat who love's to steal, but not for a meal," her tone of voice became one of rhythmic, playful, but colorful, "The world was hers and nothing could stop her. She sought freedom, luxury, and most of all, the desire to take what isn't hers. She had very few allies, possibly only one she could trust," Selina's shamrock eyes drifted to Holly's light blue eyes, who in turn did the same, both smirking, "But she preferred to keep her own world to herself, and not let anyone touch it. Till, he shows up," gesturing who he was, Selina raised two fingers over her head, "The bat. He was fast, strong, mean, but also, a challenge for the cat. They would dance the night away with constant chases; the cat steals, the bat chases. The cat prowls, yet the bat stalks. The cat eagerly waited for the night to come, so that she could have the bat to play. Yet, neither expected what happened next… Which is?"

"Love!"

"Kissy face!"

"Grown up stuff!"

"Sleep!"

Again, Selina and Holly found herself giggling at the children's response's, "Well, the first one. Love. It took time, patience, for the cat to understand that feeling. She had…Countless of different types of love," her voice slowly started leaving its rhyme tone, going more in depth with the story that engrossed the children once more, "But none was like the one she had for the bat. Because beyond the mask they wear, it was quite complicated when they both looked at each other without the mask. Wanna know why?" The yes's and nods came so fast that Selina giggled once more, "They are as human as you can get, and as you will eventually know, everyone has sides to them that makes it hard to be around them. The cat was imperfect just as the bat was rough around the edges. It took time, a lot of boring walks and talks that didn't involve death defying stunts, but the cat and the bat found a level of ground between them. One that was again, love and hope."

Selina herself couldn't help but fall in love with her short storytelling involving her history with Bruce. As she mentioned, what started out as a chase between them, came a whirlwind of events that envelope them together. She sure has her problems with his world and who he is, and it really hasn't been as easy to deal with it in recent times, but she won't change anything else for something else. Because what could be better than what she has? Sure, there are men that are less damaged, bruised, battle hardened, and ptsd driven such as Bruce. But no one would understand her what her world once was and is, and who she is now after all she's been through. She has changed from the person she was, but that's only because of Bruce and others. And because he and everyone close to him help her be who she is, she won't throw away all they've worked for what they have now.

Selina knows she has a lot to lose than to gain, especially with the two new major villains that's running amok in Gotham. Just when things get tough, she knows she has to protect everything she has, everything she wants, and everything she needs from those forces. This place? Her solitude? She'll always protect it, always come back to protect it. Because everyone here deserves something better than what she had when they were her age. And Bruce in part helped build what this place is, a bright beacon of hope for the East End side of Gotham.

"Ooo! Oooo!" A kid raises their hands in question.

"Yes Icarus?"

"Did they live happily ever after?" The boy asked intrigued to know.

"I sure hope so," Selina turn to see the one and only Bruce with a few pizza boxes in hand for the kids to eat, "Be a shame to have the cat and the bat tear apart with how beautiful telling the story was," he said, smiling and mentioning that he probably was here long enough for the whole story to be told.

"OH PIZZA!"

"I hope it's extra cheese!"

"Pepperoni!"

"I'mmmmm so hungry now!"

"Ah uh ah!" Selina stopped any of them from moving, "Holly, did they make up their beds?"

"Hm, I wonder if they did?" Holly both asked herself and to the kids.

"I did!"

"Me too!"

"Yes yes!"

"Course I did!"

Selina had her eyebrow raised once she stood on her two feet, "And if I go check now, I would find a nicely made up bed with no ounce of toys, games, dolls, or even make up on the floor?"

Just when Selina said that, all of them scattered quickly to their respective rooms. Each floor that the orphanage had a living room they were in and multiple rooms with their own bathrooms. Selina shook her head and scoffed at how fast the kids ran, "Oh but they move fast when the playboy arrives but when it involves me, they take their sweet time."

Holly giggling at Selina's irritation as she stood up and put aside her knitting kit on the table, "You ask for this Selina," Selina response was her facing scrunching and eye rolling knowing she was damn right on her side, "Good to see you again Mr. Wayne," she said giving a side hug.

"Please," Bruce gave back as he also laid the pizza boxes on the nearby dinner table, "It's Bruce Holly. You knew me for so long that you don't have to call me that."

"Eh, old habits die hard. I'm gonna make sure the kids do their task while you two…Well have y'all boring walks and talks."

Once Holly left them, it was simply the Cat and the Bat. Selina gestures her head for Bruce to follow, "How are you today? Sorry I didn't make it back home in time to see you leave," through the stairs, they can hear the upper levels revolving around the older kids, mostly the one's that dealt with the pre teens.

To which Selina knew she had to check on before she heads to the roof to talk with her husband in privacy, "I've been better, and It's ok. With everything unraveling more and more I don't hold it against you to stay more in the mansion."

Once reaching the next floor, Selina did her job as one of the adults here and made sure they weren't being naughty pre teens/ teenagers. The second floor handles the kids who are reaching their teenage years, meaning they are a bit rowdy than younger kids, and are more exposed to saying more vulgar language.

Something Bruce found funny when she caught one of them spouting out the f bomb, in doing so, grounding them from playing games or going outside. Bruce enjoyed watching Selina work, being a guardian to the younger generation that so desperately needs them. No matter how much Gotham had changed, there were always kids and teenagers either losing their family, getting abandoned by them, or not having them at all to begin with. And she always makes sure that the people that want to adopt these kids, they are good people first and foremost. If they weren't and they were only in it for themselves, then Selina would put a stop to it and kick them out.

Bruce and Selina would then move onto the next floor, now housing teenagers that were almost adults, or adults themselves. It was a bit more quiet since these were older kids stuck in their own world. Some sunk themselves into music, some were chatty amongst each other, almost too chatty if it's the opposite sex to which Selina intrudes.

She didn't want either of these kids to do a sort of action that they weren't prepared for.

Bruce wasn't completely invisible to the teenagers here. They stared up and down at him because he stood out from the clothing, watch, and mannerisms he displayed. Plus, everyone knows who Bruce Wayne was, and well, they know how close he is to Selina. After all, she is Ms. Wayne. Yet, no one would trash at him, talk smack to him, because respectfully, these were teenagers that understood Bruce, and Bruce understood them. Though some would ask him for some extra cash other than loads of pizza. To which, Selina smacks the back of their heads for that stupid question, since she made sure the older kids, soon to be young adults, had a job line up they can work in. Selina made sure that these older teens and even young adults; with some almost being 21, could stay as long as they could till there stable to set up their own life and purpose.

It can bring complications with how much they can keep here, but Bruce made sure to have a place big enough for those who would stay longer. She made sure they know what they want, and whatever they want to do, she'll help in any way she can. Some don't need to go to school, Selina had her and others help them study, and to those that do, Selina makes sure they go to a decent school, but this was Gotham, it still had its old dark habits of making even schools unsafe for everyone. Either way, Selina made sure to do her part to help everyone in the orphanage. Didn't matter if it was education, learning to defend yourself, giving them proper food, proper entertainment, Selina has dedicated herself for well over a year to do something different, be something more than she ever thought she could be. And that was being good, a good person that is above being selfish, above stealing for herself, and above letting her once dark world hurt others in the process.

Soon enough, Selina led Bruce upstairs to the roof of the East End Children's home. The sun was bright as the afternoon began to slowly come around to Gotham. The brightness was enough for Bruce to block the view with his hands, causing Selina to giggle at his small groan, "Even after all these years, you're still not comfortable being around the sun."

Bruce felt himself smirking as his eyes got adjusted to the light, "Not my fault, I felt more at home in the cave than anywhere else."

"Still do," Selina moves over to the railing, leaning her body as Bruce follows suit, doing the opposite of Selina and leaning the side of his body on the railing, "As I said earlier, you're going back to the cave more often than not."

Bruce found himself frowning other than smiling, "...I won't lie that I haven't been comfortable in our apartment for sometime…"

"Sometime?" Selina had her eyebrow raised when looking at her husband.

He sighed, not liking or wanting to make his wife upset when she was just happy being around those kids, "Maybe more then sometime…"

She too couldn't help but sigh when her eyes drifted to the street of the East End, "..No I shouldn't be angry for that. I can't be angry knowing how hard you're trying not to be who you are. It's just that…" Selina found her eyes closed, her chin lowering into her arms, having to pause her speech for a moment to gather her thoughts properly, "...There was a time where we had stuff figured out. That when we got married, it meant that we weren't gonna run away from each other and really start something special."

Bruce knew where she was going with this. His eyes followed where his wife's eyes were looking at, "...I can't give you that right now Selina. I'm….Not, or won't be a good father to that child."

"And it's not fair for you to say that," Selina opens her eyes, "We're flawed, terrible people, who want to be good Bruce. Sure, what you did after killing that clown was…Ugly and wrong, a departure of who you were…I still feel…I feel disgusted hearing that Talia could've had you if she didn't…Wise up and said no…" Selina scoffed, "And here I thought she was just a bitch out for herself… But after countless years of doing what you did?" She looked up to her husband, "...It was a matter of time that you break, because you're a human just like everyone else Bruce. There is no excuse for the people you hurt, and that something you pay for dearly. If it wasn't for Clark, everyone would've rather you reveal your identity to the world and put you in prison. Bu-"

"But as kind and hopeful as he is. He decided for me to solitude myself by living like an actual normal billionaire," Bruce answered before his wife did, "Most of course, didn't agree. But again, Clark, and to a point Peter, made sure everyone understood that I wasn't the only one that had a bad day like that made them become a monster. Hal had his moment after Coast city was destroyed 10 years ago. Before Barry sacrificed himself to save the world that same year, he lost control of his powers due to arch nemesis, Zoom, and killed not only him, but innocent people in vicinity, even Diana had her moment of fury and vengeance when Donna died 3 years ago. It was Clark and Peter who reminded the Justice League that no hero is safe from becoming the evil they fought against. It's the only reason why I'm allowed to walk free, even if I...Don't feel like it," he said.

Eventually, this moment of introspection with his wife allowed Bruce to become clear on what she meant, and more of why he's on a path he's on right now. It all simply came down to one thing, that he was human. He feel's, he bleeds, he pushes, he falls, he wins, and loses. He's a person, a human bean, and no matter what, he isn't invincible to the trauma's that life had brought upon him. It might've taken years, but he broke so hard that it caused him to hurt so many people due to his purpose in purely purging evil and protecting his city along with the people he loves. If Bruce could, he would go back in time to convince himself to not go down the path he went on.

But then, who knows what untold future would've come before him if he had done that. And rather than changing the past, the simplest thing he can do is what he's always been trying to do. Endure and push forward, "...I don't want to have a child, knowing that who I am now, isn't good enough yet for that child. I know, time is running out, and the likely chances of us…" he would now change his position, leaning on the railing similar to his wife, allowing their elbows and body to touch one another, "Having kids would become slimmer and slimmer but-"

"I get it honey," Selina wraps her hands into his arms, "We can always adopt one if it comes to a point where it won't be possible. Not the first time you adopted kids."

A chuckle escaped his lips as he rested his shoulder on his wife, "But it would be a first that I adopted a child with you, a woman that stole my heart."

"It wasn't too hard to steal anyways."

Bruce looks at her, pouting, allowing her to giggle because his pout resembles more like a child pout. And that in itself was adorable.

---

"Shit!"

"It's the spider!"

"I thought he retired!"

"Nope! Just took," Peter does what he does best while clad back in his red and black leather jacket, black jeans, and shoes. That being taking down people who wanted to commit crime just because he took a small break. He easily pressed his palm into a person's stomach, lifting him up in the air where he also webbed him to a street lamp pole, "A small break!" He quickly both sweeps a person's leg, but before they fall face first into concrete, Peter would backflip while pulling the goon with a webline, right to another person that he jumped over, knocking the two out, "I'm still too young to retire folks!" He made sure to also web up the remaining small time crooks just before he gave the all clear to the fellow bank workers that the coast was clear.

Since everyone was safe and the GCPD was already almost here, Peter left the scene and kept swinging, trying to make up for how much he missed keeping his neighborhood safe, "I'm still worried about you pushing yourself like this Peter. It's only been 36 hours since you got up from your coma," Barbara said worryingly over the comm's.

"I'm fine Oracle! Look at me go!" He swung fast, bounced off his webline high to perform some aerial flips, landed on a roof to do even more creative flips and movements overcoming the obstacles that Miagani Island had to offer.

She scoffs, already can tell she was glaring at the Bat computer with how much he was showing off, "It's a good thing I'm focusing on other things, because I would barf. Still no reading on those spider bots Cass planted in the Arkham knight base."

"It is underground, so I wouldn't be surprised if they found it. Other than that, ole Madam Webb made sure to get my head on straight," Peter took a pitstop in one of the skyscrapers Miagani Island had, squatting low and overlooking the city, "Lord knows I needed that therapy more than I would hate to admit it. And well, I hate to admit that therapy is something I should've had a long time ago."

"Feel like we all kind of needed that. But often than not, our therapy is technically the people closest to us."

"Suppose to be, but I think you and I both know that isn't enough."

"Which is why Dinah recommends it every chance she gets to every hero who needs it."

"All except Bruce who flat out went for a time and stopped."

"Seems you and I were keeping tabs on him from afar instead of in person."

"Better than dealing with him in person. The wound was still deep enough to even confront him."

"Still is for the most part...Anyway, the blind woman who helped you. I remember before you never exactly liked her too much."

"Mostly it was her grandma and the many cryptic messages about my future."

"And it's the psycho one that took her place and helped you right?"

"Well, she's not psycho anymore. She's a reform change woman, no longer the same person hell bent on gaining more power and hurting her grandmother or others like me. It didn't help that around this year in the springtime, the original Madame Webb passed away, passing on the mantle rightfully to her granddaughter. She's been learning to be better than she once was and she's been doing a great job thus far."

"And you can trust her? That she won't turn on you?"

Peter shrugs his shoulders as he changes position on the edge of the building, sitting down, one knee up, one leg dangling, and both hands clasp around his knee, "I know her track record isn't the best, but like with just about anyone, I believe in second chances. Her grandmother and I took the time to adjust her to the world when she lost her powers, and not only that, time allowed her to see that power won't change what happened in the past. Sure, Octavius when he was alive, experimented on her and in doing so, gave her powers more than her grandmother had…But he also hurt her really badly in the process, causing her to have a type of trauma where she never wanted to feel weak or powerless ever again. Not excusing some of the illegal deeds she did before her getting more powers, but she needed time to learn that more power wouldn't make her strong, nor attacking others similar to her would make her the dominant spider. Now look at her, helping not only me, but the other Spider people outside of Gotham."

"Huh...You used to not be so fond of talking about them, especially after what you said to them after your Aunt's funeral.."

Behind his mask, Peter couldn't help but cringe at the truth of that topic, "Yeah…. Not one of my proudest moments. My relationship with all of them was shaky at best, but...After what Kraven family tried to do to them, causing me to have to save them, and in turn..."

"Yeah I know," Barbara said, not wanting Peter to go any further than he wanted too, "Hurt you a lot that when you saw them again you just screamed at them."

"Mhm… It wasn't there fault and I shouldn't have put the blame on them…But I wanted someone to blame, and I sadly chose them," Peter said, finding himself sighing and being shameful of doing something uncharacteristic wise, "..I learned a few things during my therapy session, and part of that session, was accepting the events that has happen, whether I cause it or didn't. I know its a lesson I learn time and time again, but to look deeper into some of those memories that had impact on me? I had to understand to move forward, that comes with acceptance first and foremost. I mean who I am? I always thought I would be the only type of Spider-Man around," Peter found himself chuckling at the irony, "Then I got cloned with two surviving and exhibiting certain traits that I try not to show or had a rough time showing. I found myself jealous of how Ben was able to let go, be free, happy of who he is and not be tied down to my memories so easily. And I hated how Kaine reminded me of how angry and angst I was when I was younger, even more than what I was. It was…Enough so where I put some distance between those two spiders, compared to the two others."

"Spider woman and Spider girl," Peter found himself sighing again, "Hey you were the one reopening this and I'm here helping like I should."

"I know I know," a small part of Peter groaned at saying those common words, "Mattie wanted to be just like me so bad when she got her powers, and in doing so, I hurt her feelings as I tried to make her quit and not be like me."

"That didn't even stop her from joining up with the Titans and helping out in San Francisco. You really showed your brooding side like Bruce that time."

"Can you blame me? Why would I want anyone to be like me? Adopt an identity like me? I didn't want anyone to adhere to the type of things I went through when I was young…Yet Mattie did so. She was put in a similar position where she never asked to get powers, but she was inspired to use them for good cause of me," Peter felt himself frowning, "I wish I could've done better into…I don't know, adjusting her to the new world she got into? Or maybe found an easier way of stopping her from being a hero? Yet she didn't listen to me either way, and went on to do her own thing…Then there was Jessica…"

"A woman who was A, a mind controlled assassin, B, a woman who was also experimented on, C, you help reform, and D, well… You and her had your moments that make you more in line with Dick when you think about it."

"Babs…! My love life was complicated back then!"

"Mhm."

"Plus she had trouble controlling her…Pheromone powers. And she got control of it in like a month at least."

"Peter, just admit that both of you were in a position that you both needed taking advantage of. I mean it was around the time you and Star girl didn't pan out, and Koriand'r sister also dumped you."

"That's what I'm trying to do…Trying to come to terms with these people, the relationship I sort of have with them… And that they're also Spider people like me. Regardless of my relationship with them, I'm not the only one who wears this mask to help people. It was hard for me to believe that anyone other than me could wear the mask. And I once believed that the people who would, only do it for selfish reasons, or to endanger others because again, they want to be like me so bad. But those four people proved otherwise, maybe not right away like Charlotte, but they did prove that they can do good just like how I've been trying for the past 12 years."

"...When will you realize that you never were alone Peter? We're all here for you."

Peter found himself slowly nodding, "Yeah, been told that a lot... Another thing I had to relearn in my session, heh, funny enough... Sometimes it was, and is, hard for me to swallow that pill. I mean after losing just about everyone close to me, I couldn't help but think I was alone. But I got closer with you all, MJ still has her ways of trying to help me, I technically have my own Spider family, but that's if I find a way to make up with them. And most of all-"

"You have Cassandra."

This is when Peter felt his smile come alive behind the mask, "Yeah, I have her...A person who I never thought I would wrap myself around with. I'm so happy she was…Open to us today, I don't know what brought it on but-"

"Isn't it obvious? I think she realized that with all that had, or is happening? She needs you, really needs you, and she can't afford to lose you. Just as you were having your own therapy session, so was Cassandra. The talk with MJ, the talk I tried having with her, how Bruce, Selina, Alfred, and Dick had tried to do the same, even Steph and especially Talia. All of us allowed her to see what she needs to do to become better, allowing her to take her own step forward."

"Sentiment is the same on my end. I need her, want her, and I don't want to lose her. Not just her, I don't want to lose any of you….OOeee!" Peter stood up, letting out a sigh of relief with the talk he was having, "Man! I miss when I was in school, trying to be saved by the bell, studying for exams, and fighting the villain of the week!"

"Now you're old, dealing with the physical and mental problems of being an adult while still dealing with the villains of the week, in a way."

"Heh, life is funny like that," upon saying that, Peter saw Vicki was calling him, "Oh! Gotta take this Babs!"

"Really forgot about your own job?"

"Not really!" Peter let himself fall, sky diving to the streets of Miagani island as he swung with speed as he answered Vicki, "Hey! Heading to the Gazette now!"

"Which is good! But I'm also calling because hey! You were in a coma and had me worry."

"All good now! Is Jonah there?"

"As always."

"Well he is in for a surprise that I have for him today!

---

A person like Jonah has been through a lot in his 54 years of being alive and kicking. He saw it all, felt it all, and most of all, screamed his lungs out for the people of Gotham to hear what he had to say that others wouldn't dare to say. But, today it seems that one of those days that will challenge his blood pressure levels, "...WHAT?!"

"You heard me Jonah."

"NO I DON'T THINK I DID PARKER! I DON'T THINK ANYONE HERE HAVE!"

With Jameson screaming his lungs out for the many workers in the Gazette to turn and overhear what's going on with him today, Peter felt his own hands scratch behind his neck. The many eyes that locked on him were somewhat expected, but it didn't do good for Peter since it's only making him awkward, 'You think taking on Darkside would get rid of the discomfort feeling of social awkwardness…'

"WELL PARKER?!"

Peter sighs, there wasn't any point running from this one, "Mr. Jameson…I quit."

No one said a word, the only sound can be heard where printers, phone's, computers getting notification, but not a soul in Gotham Gazette said a word as they watched the scene unfold. It was then Jameson let himself laugh, "So…So you're telling me, you called out sick for a week and a half. A WEEK AND A HALF! Then you decide to come rolling back in, deciding to quit?" Just saying that, Jameson found himself laughing once more.

"Jonah…"

"DON'T BUDGE IN ROBBIE!" Jameson turned and shouted at his friend, his vain being clear as day from his anger, "NOT THIS TIME…No," Jameson turned back to Peter, stepping closer to him, "No, now I got a bone to pick with you Parker. Don't act like I haven't noticed your lack of attentiveness to your job here in recent times. Coming in whenever you please, finishing a job whenever you pleases, staring off to god knows where while our site crashes. I hired you, fired you, again and again, and again Parker. Hell! I hired you again after what happened to your poor Aunt! I give you so many chances to have a place here, hell there were times I needed you back because you were a hell of a worker. But what's so fucking pathetic is that you never have the guts to stand on your own two feet and seek a place elsewhere then here. Even when your Aunt passed," Jameson pointed to Peter, "You could've told me no! But you didn't! I like it better when you used to show me the type of responsibility you always wanted to uphold! But look at you now?! Rotting away with no care in the world, not taking accountability of the area around you as you're gifted what others damn well wish to have in your position!"

"I…" Peter felt himself paused, just about to say he knows how much he's messed up time and time again, but he refrained from saying anything as his phone ended up ringing. Peter's eyebrow shrewd when he saw who was calling him, 'MJ's agency? Why would they be calling me at a time like this?' Feeling how odd the timing was, Peter knew he had to take this call.

And Jameson was none to please, "Go ahead! Take the call, your busy man who seems to only care when it's a specific time of day!"

"Jameson! Don't you think you're going a little too far with this?" Vicki asked, not having the stomach to deal with Jameson's both taunts and anger at Peter, no matter if he had the reason for it.

"Vicki its ok," Peter said before he ended up sighing," Just let me take this call re-"

"Do what you want Parker, and get the hell out of my building. From this point on, I never want to see your fucking face here ever again! EVERYONE BACK TO WORK! SHOW'S OVER!"

Peter couldn't help but groan at the situation that played out, 'Well that was humiliation, but I did deserve that. After a whole year of just wondering with my eyes closed and then up and quitting without a good excuse it's the least I get. It definitely could've bee-' Peter shook his head, 'Nope! Don't say it. At the least, my camera's of this place should keep track of whatever else will go on. Better take this call.'

Peter would end up taking the call from MJ's agency, "Uh hello?"

"Mr. Parker? Hi, sorry for calling you unannounced but I was wondering if you saw Ms. Watson sometime ago?"

The inside of Peter felt like it dropped from the atmosphere and straight down to the earth itself when he heard those few words. Peter let himself breath, he didn't want to worry, but his own paranoia was getting the better of him since it's been a very long time Mary Jane's agency had called him about her whereabouts, "N-no, I haven't actually, but my girlfriend had about a few days ago. Is something the matter?"

Vicki caught Peter's hand drifting to the back of hair, rubbing it gently. Locking eyes with one another also suggested another he was beginning to worry about something, "Hopefully not, she missed a few days of shooting and I'm praying that she's not drinking again like she used to."

'Few days? Jeez I hope she's not drinking again, I know she sober up and from what I heard from Cass, she's in a much better place,' Peter thought to himself. Vicki would ask without saying what was happening, and the only thing Peter could do was hold up his fingers, "Um, do you happen to know her own last whereabouts perhaps?"

"Last I recall, she was getting a driver from uber on the 17th. I know these are the moments we keep in contact with you since you are her only emergency contact but please, get in touch with Ms Watson, she's moving so far in her career that'll be a shame to see it go down hill again."

"Yeah, will do."

The call ended with Peter moving immediately to the elevator, and Vicki followed suit, "What's wrong?"

"MJ is missing."

"Your ex?" Peter gave her a deadpan look when he pressed the button. She held up her hands, "Hey sometimes with the women you're around I can't always keep track with who is who."

"Vicki…"

"Sorry, things have been hectic and now you kind of just up and quit like that? I'm trying to find an excuse to get my mind off things."

"Look…I'm sorry if I let you down like that, or even everyone else," Peter said, looking at his reporter partner, "I have to focus on…The other matter, and I also need to get my life back in order. I can't keep sticking to a job I'm comfortable in when I know I can do more, be more…"

Vicki nodded as she had her armscross, "No. I get that, and I think Jameson gets that too, but it was just the timing. I mean… Not everyone knows you were in a coma," she whispered to him, "You couldn't have done it maybe some other time?"

"It doesn't matter what others think. Least I can count on you to know why I have to do what I have to do. I rather bite the bullet then let it sit, wither and become something far more nasty. I gotta try to find Mary Jane, I'm just hoping no-" Peter eyes widened at his senses tingling, and it was coming from the elevator, "Oh no…"

Peter tackled Vicki away from what was the sound of a sonic scream, opening and destroying the elevator doors. The door itself flew forward, hitting a few people and taking them straight out the window without even so much as a scream. His eyes widened at seeing Kasady in his Carnage suit, swung in with his partner Shriek .

The Gazette was filled with panic, screams and shock liter throughout the place, just when Carnage laughter came lurking as he stood in the Gazette, "Sorry for dropping in," the people who tried making a break for it were instantly killed by Carnage's tendril that sprout from his body, stabbing them from either head and body, or Shriek using her telepathy to snap people's neck in an instant. The only thing Peter could do was pick himself and Vicki up, making sure not only she, but others were moved safely away from the two, "Unannounced, but I need a cameraman," Carnage raiser sharp smirk widen when he spot Vicki right beside Peter, "Or woman," his tendrils grabbed Vicki.

"NO!" Peter shouted.

Her scream hollered out that Jameson didn't let that slide, "UNHAND HER YOU DIABOLICAL FREAK OF NATURE!"

Without looking, Carnage's own tendril grabs Jameson by the neck, "Mr. Jameson, the person who hates every person that wears a mask… I wonder if I kill you now, the Spider wouldn't dare to save you."

Peter had enough, at seeing events unfold without him being able to do something, "LET THEM GO!" Carnage's head tilted, his smile somehow growing wider at seeing Peter's presence, a furious man ready to throw down to protect the people in the building.

And the fact he can finally see the man behind the mask only got him more excited, "Or what?" Carnage challenge to the one person he's here for.

"I think he's angry, babe!" Shriek said, casually resting her arms on her partner, "Make him more angry."

"With pleasure," Carnage would increase the chokehold on Jameson, making it harder and harder for him to breathe. Peter fist tightens, hating that he couldn't do anything without revealing who he is.

He is damn right ready to throw down if it means saving Jameson.

Carnage would then stop, letting Jameson breathe as he let his tendril surf the area, finding and grabbing a camera where he would give Vicki. His tendril would also make sure to put them on air for the whole world to see what's going on, "Showtime blondie! Hold the camera steady! And you?" He pointed to Peter, "Run along and get the hero!" Peter's eyes squinted, not trusting the word coming out from his mouth, till his suit pulled out a tendril like scythe right to Vicki and Jameson, "Or they die, and you don't want that on your conscience now do you?"

Peter didn't, and so ran, not from the fight, but to the fight that will happen.

---

"Arkham Knight! Got something that will interest you!"

Arkham Knight who was just finishing off their sparring with multiple people that were on the floor, taking a knee from fighting someone who was better then them, "All you, work on your defense and movement. You stay moving, you stay breathing," The Knight went over to one of their soldiers as they brought something up on the monitor for everyone to see.

It was Carnage, live in the Gazette holding people hostage, "Hello chums! It is I, the Carnage killer, or actually, just plain old.. CARNAGE! Along with my beautiful girlfriend beside me called Shriek , who can give black canary a run for her money!" Shriek blew the camera a kiss, "And we're at the place that surprisingly is still afloat, Gotham Gazette! Where our hero will soon appear!"

Jameson scoffed, "ONLY A MANIAC LIKE YOU WILL CALL HIM A HERO!"

"Jeez!" Carnage would hold the scythe closer to Jameson's throat, "So close to death yet your mouth is still moving! Kind of sad the Spider didn't put you out of your misery when he should've!"

The second his name was heard, the camera caught him swinging through the window. Peter in his vested spider suit, went for a straight kick that Carnage dodge, and with his one hand, grabbed him by the chest where he rotated him to bring his momentum crashing to the Gazette floor. Somehow, Carnage made sure to have Vicki distance enough to catch the action, "Spider! Glad you recovered!"

"Yeah no thanks to you!" Peter would use his own sonic blast to fend Carnage off, webbing and free Jameson and Vicki from Carnage clutches.

Seeing all this, Arkham Knight couldn't help snicker, "Opportunity is knocking here. We can use this to our advantage. EVERYONE! WE MOVE NOW, OUR PLAN IS IN FULL EFFECT!"

"YES ARKHAM KNIGHT!"

---

Shriek 's eyes glow green, and Peter already felt his spider tingling like crazy. He thought she would try to turn these good people on him like she did at the veteran's parade.

But instead she was trying to get into his head again, "UGH!" He groaned as he felt himself tremble, almost going to his knees, but he stood his ground. As Peter was focused on trying to push Shriek out of his head, Carnage used this chance to grab Jameson. Peter would try to stop him, but Shriek put on more power, "GAH!"

In turn, Carnage also grabbed Vicki again, so that way she can show Gotham and everyone that the hero was suffering. But oddly, Shriek let out a groan, her concentration went off, allowing Peter to quickly stand up, shocking Shriek as he almost knocked her out if it wasn't for Carnage pushing out tendril to knock him through Jameson's office, "Babeeee?! What happened to your mind fuckery?!"

"I don't know babe! He's got a second head in there now!" She said rubbing her temple.

He tilted his head as his white eyes widened at the prospect, "Really?! SPIDER! WHO'S THE PSYCHIC FRIEND HELPING YOU OUT?! A LEAGUE MEMBER OR TITAN MEMBER?!"

Peter recovered, hopping back to where everyone is as he crouches low in his usual stance, "I don't kiss and tell, especially to a crazed version of Bonnie and Clyde."

"Aw well, plan A is still in motion!" Peter went to stop him, readying his fire gadget from his web shooters, but his spider sense blared heavily once more. Shriek would use the people in the Gazette to attack Peter. Peter would move, dodge around, trying to fire out extreme heat at Carnage but Shriek would use a nearby hostage to be thrown in his way.

In doing so, it allowed Carnage to do what he wanted everyone to see. He infected Jameson with his own symbiote, large amounts of it that it was enough from him to choke on it, giving out a hollow scream as the symbiote itself took over, "NO!" Again, every time Peter wanted to do something, even with his speed and spider senses, the two villains were able to put a hostage in front of him.

From the likes of Robbie Roberson, "Robbie please! Stop this!"

"Stop?! I'm tired of supporting a hero that only causes more trouble than good."

Peter would dock, tossing him aside to a wall where he quickly switched modes to shoot webs, stopping from hurting him. Then there was Ben Urch, coming at him with a laptop in hand, "Come on Ben! Come to your senses here!"

Peter blocked the laptop, breaking easily just because of how strong his forearms were, "I am! I'm always tied down to you and your battles! If you never existed, then I could write stories other than freaks in Gotham!"

Peter would web him away from getting his by Ned that was more aiming for him, "Ned! I know we had our difference in the past bu-"

"DIFFERENCE?! YOU RUIN MY MARRIAGE?!" Ned grabbed a glass cup and threw it at him that Peter easily dodge as also dodge and counters others trying to hurt him, "BECAUSE OF YOU, BETTY DIVORCE ME! YOU AND PETER ALWAYS RUIN EVERYTHING FOR ME! MAYBE I SHOULD'VE BEEN THE HOBGOBLIN INSTEAD OF ROBERT!"

Everything was getting out of hand because of what Shriek was doing. Peter was more focused on stopping them, but also being very careful with himself. He knew how to be careful with his strength from years of experience, but with how everything was transpiring so fast it only was forcing him to move faster, push a little harder.

And mask his own emotions without everyone throwing out why they hated him so much, "YOU HEAR THAT SPIDER! THESE ARE THE PEOPLE YOU PROTECT! YET DEEP DOWN HATES YOUR OWN EXISTENCE!" Vicki was utterly terrified of the fact being held by Carnage, terrified of seeing everyone let out their deepest urges involving Peter, but not only that, she was more terrified of Jameson. He now was fully grown into his symbiote form, hands striking the ground as he stood tall, taller than Carnage, "GET THE MONEY SHOT CAMERA WOMEN! MY OWN CREATION IS HERE!"

Jameson was no longer there, or whatever is there has been replaced by something far worse. It stood tall, fully red, similar to Carnage, but having its chest and legs being encompassed with darker color, it shared the same sharp teeth, white eyes as Carnage. But what he didn't share with Carnage, was enthusiasm as his white eyes quickly sharpen at Peter.

Who now saw what Jameson has become, "Jameson…No…YOU MONSTER! WHAT DID YOU DO TO HIM?!" Peter directed his shout at Carnage as he had his own time to breath while handling most of the coworkers.

"SIMPLE! WHAT I WILL DO TO YOU! AND OTHERS!"

Jameson's teeth clenched, fist clenching in and out as he stared at Peter with anger, with hate, "Hated you….Always hated you…"

"Jameson…Fight it! It doesn't control you, you can con-"

"I DON'T CARE IF IT CONTROLS ME!" The symbiotic Jameson ran towards Peter, causing him to catch him punch with both his hands, "YOU LET MY WIFE DIE! MY SON DIE! EVEN MY NIECE TURN INTO WHAT YOU ARE!"

Peter pushed Jameson's hands away, leaping over him to avoid an overhand strike that was sent crashing down into him, "Those weren't my fault Jameson!" Jameson swung behind him, causing Peter to leap out of the way again, but was then caught by the throat, "Ugh… I tried saving them…Tried having Mattie…Not become like me…"

"BUT YOU FAILED!" Jameson brought him closer to his face, "FAILED AT EVERYTHING! AND KEEP FAILING OVER AND OVER! IF YOU WERE A REAL MAN, YOU WOULD LET THE REAL HEROES DO THE WORK! NOT YOU!"

Peter felt the grip tightening, air was becoming harder to breathe, he switched modes on his web shooter to release fire that made him kick off him. The fire had gotten him to scream, lurch, and Peter could see a bit of Jameson in there, "FIGHT IT JAMESON!"

"NO HE WON'T! BABE!"

"On it!" Shriek would use her telepathic ability to put on the sprinkler, stopping the flames.

"To all the people at home! Here's today's entertainment that you can't ignore!" Carnage spoke in front of the camera as he jumped in between Peter and Jameson, "If the Spider doesn't kill Jameson, all these people here!" Vicki had to make sure she got everyone that was in the vicinity, even those that were web up, "Would get killed! So every minute the fight continues on! They die like a pile of rabbits! And best of all, the Spider can't call for help, otherwise I'll have my girlfriend kill everyone in seconds, maybe less! We'll find out won't we!" He added a laugh, "NOW LET THE FIGHT CONTINUE BETWEEN SPIDER-MAN AND RIOT! BECAUSE HE'S A HELL OF A RIOT! OH! AND THE MANY PEOPLE HERE THAT WANTS A PIECE OF THE SPIDER TOO!" Carnage motion Vicki around to show the workers in the Gazette mind controlled and ready to hurt Peter as well, "SOMEONE SHOULD'VE GIVE SPIDER THE NOTIFICATION TO HAVE A HOME FIELD ADVANTAGE HERE!"

Peter sucked his teeth, 'Of course it won't be easy, sorry guys,' Peter would turn off his comm's or any communication with Batcave or elsewhere.

Because for the time being, he's on his own here, something he's used to but sure as hell hopes the others can figure out a way to help him.

Chapter 17: No good deed goes unpunished

Cassandra hears him on the Bat computer. The grunts from his struggles, his shouting to convince his boss to hear him and let him save the many people in the Gazette, and from the side, she can see him getting tossed around by the three villains. His communication may be off from the Batcave but Barbara, Cassandra, Alfred, and Talia was watching through the camera's he set up in the Gazette

He's overwhelmed, outnumbered, and now not to mention, he needs to save people that are being mind controlled into hurting him.

Cassandra, can't, won't let him do this on his own as she begins suiting up. She won't wear her morning clothing like the one she fought against Arkham Knight the first time. While useful slipping in and out to her more civilian appearance, she couldn't use that right now. No, instead, she needed to wear her night suit. Her dark knight suit that always look imposing with the mask covering everything including her mouth, the darker color palettes encompass its dark aura, the way her eyes was pitch black like her old costume, the many gadgets on her utility belt, the metallic armory design by Peter that was not only very mobile but tougher to withstand blows from much stronger enemies, and her cape that the wind coming from the outside of the cave let it flutters behind her.

She needed to use this in the light for the person she loves.

The Batcave was getting a call from Dick Grayson to which Barbara answered, "I'm heading over to the Gazette to help him. I'll meet you there Batwomen!"

"Didn't you hear what Kasady said Dick?!"

"I know! And I don't give a damn! I won't stand around and watch him lose this! 3 against 3 is better than 1!" Dick responded and cut off whatever Barbara was going to say to Dick, "I'm tired of not always being there when he's put in this position!"

"You can't just barge in without a plan! There are innocent people that will get killed if you just go in guns blazing Master Grayson!" Alfred said, "The GCPD have already gotten to location, but now have to deal with the surprise attack from Kasady's army protecting the building itself."

Before Dick could respond with something nasty out of anger and frustration, Cassandra walked towards the Bat computer, "Wait for me. We go in together. Take care of the army, then save Peter."

Both Cassandra and Barbara heard him snarl, "...Hurry up, I'm not gonna wait just for you."

Dick got off his comm's, yet Cassandra can see he was flying with his jetpack straight towards Migani island from Old Gotham. That means Cassandra would need to be there less then a few minutes so he won't do something stupid. Cassandra speed walks to her Batmobile, hopping in and starting her engine, "Cass!" Cassandra looks at her seeing Barbara rolled up to the Batmobile, looking at her with concern and worry due to Dick's impulsive behavior, "Please, be careful and make sure he doesn't do anything drastic."

"Oh he will try!" Talia said from the back, using the training program to keep herself sharp and ready for anything as she took on multiple foe's with her sword in hand, "It's up to her to put her foot down when it counts," stabbing each generated AI with precision and force, she would take a pause to look at Cassandra in a crouch position, "Isn't that right Cassandra?"

Cassandra didn't answer Talia, didn't even give her the time of day as she nodded to Barbara and Alfred. She let the Batmobile hood close off and already ignited the engine that was jetting out of the Batcave.

Barbara could only sigh and roll back to the Bat computer as she could only monitor the Gazette, monitor Gotham, and overall, do nothing physical into helping her family that needs all the help she can get. She then felt the hands of Alfred on her shoulder, consoling her as he has an idea how she feels right about now, "If they need you, you know they'll call on you, as always."

"...I know…I just wish I can do more…I don't know why but I got so comfortable in the position I'm in till recently. I spent years adapting without the usage of my leg, and it feels like for some odd reason, I'm feeling all the weight…The inadequacy of it all that I can't….I CAN'T DO ANYTHING!" Barbara shouted, slamming her hands on the keyboard.

Talia would stop her training, letting her crackle of a laughter be heard in the cave, "That's the price you pay for trying to do good. In the end," she walks up to both Alfred and Barbara; the butler eyebrow shrewd at Talia's direction while Barbara kept her head bow, hearing, but not daring looking at her smug look, "Good deeds do get punished. Trust me," the smug left easily from her, "I know better than most to understand where you're coming from Ms Gordan."

"WHAT DO YOU KNOW?!" Barbara shouted with anger, glaring behind her as she looked upon the witch that hurt just about everyone she cared about for her own means, her own goals, "EVERYTHING YOU'VE DONE WAS TO PLEASE YOUR FATHER! TO GET BRUCE BY YOUR SIDE! ALL YOU EVER DONE IS HURT PEOPLE JUST FOR YOUR OWN GAIN! WHAT GOOD HAVE YOU EVER DONE IN YOUR ENTIRE LIFE?! EVEN HELPING JASON WAS ONLY FOR YOURSELF MORE SO THAN HIM"

Talia didn't answer, letting her every word hang in the air. Her eyes glazed off in another direction, letting her long brunette hair block the more lugubrious look she now had wore, "...It wasn't my intention to help shape him into who he is…But I had a part to play in that, and I don't regret the time I spent taking care of Jason before he went off on his own…"

"..No one can take that away from you Ms. Al Ghul," Alfred said with a frown on display, "But that good intention was also hidden behind selfish intention without taking in consideration what Jason wanted."

She again didn't answer because she knew how accurate that was. After all, Jason didn't ask to be resurrected and what's tragic Talia still can remember his first words when coming back to life thanks to her.

---

7 years ago

Nanda Parbat

Talia and her guards watch as the once dead Jason is slowly put into the lavish green liquid pool that was the Lazarus pit. Her arms were crossed when watching this little operation she had been in the process of being completed.

She felt a smirk rise at seeing what the league is gonna do for her, 'This should please Bruce and his family, but mostly him. Then he'll be in my debt, willing to give into me once more. And regardless of my father, I won't let him get in between us. Indeed, it was complicated to obtain Jason's body. Taking about six months, his body almost deformed, decayed, but not into bone's and pieces just yet. With the magic father mix into the Lazarus pit, pulling through the dark ancient arts, Jason would be reborn again. It would've been easier to use the pit in father's failed attempt of Wonder City, but then beloved and his partners would likely know of not only my appearance, but whatever father has plan's with Wonder City,' Talia soon found herself frowning, 'It feels like for years he's been losing in his trust in me. He hasn't been telling me things I should know, plans that involve taking down my beloved and his comrades. I feel for some reason, he's cutting me out entirely just like he did to my sister. No matter, I'll still be faithful to him...Even if these days, it has become a challenge.'

Talia watched as Jason's body was plunged into the Lazarus pit, in all its decayed form that her beloved most likely took great care when burying him upon his death. In a matter of minutes, she saw the pool start to bubble, she then felt herself leaning forward, knowing what would happen next, knowing what the pit will bring forth, and it eager her to see the once dead Robin come back to life. Soon enough, Jason, sprung up from the pool; screaming, howling as the wounds he once had began to heal, how his body shed off the array of dead skins to give birth to fresh skin. Talia couldn't deny being repulsed at seeing the dead come back to life, she had seen it plenty of times before, but for some reason, this time felt far different from all the other times she saw this process happen. She can see the immeasurable scale of pain Jason was undergoing, how the league made sure to keep him from leaving the pit that only encouraged his suffering to keep going. It was one of the prices a person has to pay when coming back to the living, just the way they die, their wounds have to heal the same way it came upon them.

Now Jason is splattering in the pool, his screams cried out in the cave they were in that house the Lazarus pit. At first, Talia was again repulsed at what she saw, but now she couldn't look away, now she somehow couldn't help but feel sorry, to feel pity of what Jason was going through, to see this 20 year old continually suffer just as how he suffered in the past. She knew enough about Jason, did her studies, and even at times when they went against each other, really got to know him. At this point, Talia had to question herself, was it because compared to her father, her sister, some of the league of assassins, that knowing Jason's past that led to his death, was it because of this, she felt sorry for him?

And was it why for the first time since centuries ago, her stomach twisted at the sight of seeing how the resurrection process was going, "Let me die!" Jason shouted, the pit repaired his vocal chords to allow him to speak out his pain, "Let me die! Please!" Talia gripped the railing tightly, she felt her body wanted to act, but her mind kept her still, "LET ME DIE! BRUCE! ALFRED! BARABRA! AHH!" Jason scratched, peel, and hurt himself by tearing more and more of the dead skins on him. Compared to most that were resurrected, Jason's body was in a state that was almost useless to bring back, and so, Jason's suffering kept skyrocketing as the pit kept doing what it was supposed to do, "ANYONE PLEASE! PETER! GWEN! MAKE IT STOP! MAKE IT STOP!"

None of his friends was there to help him as the bones were cracked back into place, the third degree burns on his dead skin was tethering itself back together, and whatever else that he endured from the Joker's beating was all being repaired. It was then Jason had enough of the pain, and his legs started to move, as fast as possible, he came out of the pool using one of Talia's assassins to get him out and assaulted him hard.

Talia's eyes slightly wide and quickly went to move towards him. Jason would keep attacking her guards, some try to get him behind, but Jason was too frantic and overpowering as he took on whoever came at him. But what he didn't expect was Talia to tackle him right back into the Lazarus, "NO! NO!" His elbows struck Talia's temple, making her daze, but she held onto him no matter what, "I WANNA DIE! I DON'T-"

Talia did the only thing she could that made sense, hold on to him, cradle him as he kept hitting her to pry away from her. Her nose started bleeding, eyes started to slowly swell, suffer bruises that kept piling up from the many attacks Jason threw at her, but she endure, all for him, to ease him, to put him to rest, to let him know she was there when others can't be there for him, "Shuu…Ga…Shuuu…" Jason was strong that Talia had a hard time holding him in place. The guards wanted to help, but Talia with a show of glare said otherwise, "...Endure…Gah…Jason…"

Somehow the comfort made it easier to bear just a bit, but all Talia could've thought was how much of a mistake this was. To have someone like Jason, who she knew to be a more angry, aggressive Robin compared to the last one, ended up wanting to die then to live. Again, Talia had seen worse and she doesn't know why this resurrection is affecting her. Her mind kept running through various questions to figure out the root cause of the empathy she felt for Jason.

Was it because she knows what this meant for Bruce?

Was it for his plea for his innocence? His plea for his friends?

Was it the fact that when he died, he was all alone? Betrayed by the one person he wanted to save?

Or was she…Simply becoming soft? So soft to feel an ounce of guilt to bring him back alive?

This is where she began to wonder how the many mothers around the world are able to handle an innocent person succumbing to the hatred of the world. Trying to support and care for them, but in the end, can't do much to ease the pain of how much this world will throw so much at you. She didn't have the answer, maybe she would never get one, but she couldn't focus on that while holding down Jason.

And now seeing her father, Ra's Al Ghul, with hair that was receiving and dancing between black and gray, wearing his usual green cape and green suit and tie he wore, coming down into the cave with disappointment in his face being prominent. She knew he wasn't pleased with her decision, but she also saw something else in between his disappointed expression.

An opportunity to have someone new by his side as his own assassin, something to help bring her beloved to his side, or something to mold to his own making to hurt her beloved. And she can't let that happen.

Not just for her beloved, but she's fearful of what her father will do to him if he gets his hands on him.

---

Present

It was haunting for her, those three words came from a person that had accepted his death and wanted to move on. Yet, she took away that choice from him. What's tragic about it, was that Jason was the last person she ever resurrected where it shook her to her core of the impact the Lazarus pit can have on anyone other than the league, and her family. The more times someone would've gotten resurrected, the more their mind can possibly break down. And so it begs the question that Talia knows it had been on everyone's mind when people found out about his resurrection 2 years ago, whatever Jason is now? Had he always had those intentions in him all this time? It was then after taking care of Jason for a few years in secret, up until 3 years ago, it was then where Talia swore to herself she would never play god with someone's life anymore, and that included her father when his time came to leave this earth properly.

Barbara wanted to argue back, tear apart how untruthful she could've made it out to be, yet she couldn't. She didn't have it in her to do it even if it was right there in the base of her throat, the base of her mind. That isn't who she is; to berate someone she can see that was hiding her sadness, just like anyone that didn't want to know the part of them they hid from everyone. She can't forgive all that Talia had done under her father or her own ways, but she can believe that when it came to Jason, she put herself in a place to give Jason what he wanted but never got. And that was a woman that cared about his well being, a mother figure. And Barbara still can't forgive that part either since she or anyone for that matter never wanted Jason to be what he is now.

Regardless of what, Barbara still believes Talia had a play into making Jason a killer.

She sighs, she can't focus on Talia right now, she needs to focus on doing what she can do to help Peter, Cassandra, and Dick at this moment. But what else can she do from afar at this moment?

---

Bruce should've been listening to the board meeting he was having in his company building. He should be listening to what they have to do next with technology, or what to do next in terms of growing Gotham, or even how to make security more tighter here in Wayne enterprise. He should be listening to all that, but the problem was, he wasn't. Sure, he was paying attention, but he had two ear buds on as he was listening to the fight Peter was having between him and his boss J Jonah Jameson now being dubbed as Riot due to Carnage metamorphing him into a being similar to himself. Bruce didn't need to go onto his phone, the clear indication of audio being present in his ears from the Bat computer was all he needed to hear what was going on.

Peter was trying his hardest to keep people from dying. He can hear his mutters whenever he is either dodging, fighting, or constantly moving to save the people in the Gazette. With how much was going on in the background, a normal person can barely hear it, but this was Bruce Wayne, just the smallest of words can help him build a picture, "No….dies…one…dies…One….No…Dies…"

Under his chin, Bruce felt his hands tighten as he could tell what Peter was muttering to himself, what he always tries to tell himself whenever he's around to help everyone, and the one thing that keeps him pushing to where he must believe he has no limits when it comes to being a hero.

No one dies when he's around.

This also meant, from constant groans, the audible pain he was suffering, Peter was taking certain hits just to save as many people as he could. And this psychopath, Kasady, was having a ball with it, "GOOD GOD! DO YOU SEE THIS?! TO BE IN THE HONOR OF SEEING SPIDER-MAN GOING THROUGH THIS MUCH HELL?! HAHAHAHA! YOU KNOW IT'S KIND OF SAD HOW MUCH HE DOES FOR EVERYONE BUT NO ONE DOES THE SAME FOR HIM! WHERE'S THE JUSTICE LEAGUE?! THE TITANS?! HELL, THE DOOM PATROL?! FORGET THE FACT I SAID NO ONE CAN COME HELP HIM! WHERE ARE THESE BIG PLAYERS WHO THE SPIDER HAS HELPED FOR YEARS WHEN HE NEEDS THEM THE MOST?! OH RIGHT! EITHER OFF WORLD, OFF DIMENSION, OR HANDLING THEIR OWN BUSINESS AS USUAL! WHEN WILL YOU REALIZE NO ONE CARES ABOUT YOU SPIDER?! THAT ALL THE GOOD YOU HAVE DONE DOESN'T GET PAID BACK IN FULL!"

"Your're...Wrong...! They got….!Ugh! Other things to worry….About than….GOTHAM!" Peter said, as he struggles to stay on his toe's dealing with multiple threats around him, "But that's…Why you like this…Huh Kasady?!" Bruce can hear him, like always, fighting back, he was punching, moving while Jameson screamed every time when trying to hit him. He may not have his senses of use, but the years of being who he is, and how much Bruce had help him to understand that he has to use his own self to be able to fight the enemy without always relying on his six sense, was coming of use right now, "You prefer me to go through hell! BECAUSE YOU GET SOME SICK FASCINATION FROM IT?! WELL COME ON THEN, I'M RIGHT- UGh!"

"Love when you're getting cocky jumbo! And I love putting you through this kind of hell too! Babe!"

"Here you go Spider! It's a parade in this building!"

"NO!"

"STEADY THE CAMERA WOMAN! I WANT EVERYONE TO SEE THIS!"

Bruce can hear the wind coming from outside, Peter's webbing coming into action, the shuddering coming from what seems like Vicki's voice, and even her muttering to god every time.

Carnage had done something inhumane, and Peter was trying his best to stop it from happening. This is where Bruce had enough of hearing, and left Wayne enterprise to head to the Batcave.

---

Commissioner Dewolff hates feeling this useless. She, like most of GCPD forces, and swats were in an all out fight against Carnage army. The psychopath army was protecting the Gazette, and not only that, they were giving them hell. Some resided to firing a far, avoiding bullets from the GCPD because these were bullets made to hurt them, or some decided to get into close quarters, using their meta abilities to take advantage of not being easily hurt, and be powerful enough to kill some GCPD units. It also caused multiple GCPD units to get shot from the army due this distraction from those that prefer close quarters combat. They were also taking away their covering position by bum rushing the vehicles or their own barricades they had for cover, or tossing cars at them.

Each of her forces had to adapt and try to get from different cover, but it wasn't going in their favor to have meta-like abilities to dodge their bullets. Just as there were problems on the ground, so was above them. Dewolff heard something breaking, people screaming, and she looked up to see people being tossed out of the window from above, with Spider-Man himself saving them by catching them with his webbings. With groups of them falling, Dewolff saw Spider-Man was quick on his toes into placing just enough webbing that connected across the other building just to catch them. The debris was also falling that was gonna end up hurting her forces, "FALL BACK! FALL BACK!"

Most of Dewolff's forces did so, some got hurt, some got…Even more hurt, but none were killed thanks to Peter spinning out a webbing to catch those debris and toss it away from them.

She kept firing at Kasady's army as she then also got a view of symbiotic Jameson coming at Spider-Man from the top of the Gazette building. Once Spider-Man did enough to save those people, she can see him bounce off the webbing he was on, spin out two webbing that connected to the building, and let himself go forward like a speeding bullet. It was enough so that she could see the both collided in midair, and that Spider-Man somehow controlled not only his weight, but Jameson's huge body weight, and tossed him right back into the Gazette. To where he tried to keep his fighting due to likely, there were still people that needed saving in that building.

She couldn't have her forces save those people up there, because they were moved right back into the building being kept as hostages for these psycho's amusement.

With the distance between the GCPD and the army being used. Dewolff and the GCPD had to go back on the offense, "SPREAD OUT! COVER ALL OF YOUR ANGLES! MAKE SURE TO GET THE WOUNDED AWAY FROM THE FIGHT!" They all weren't using the regular weaponry that was presented for GCPD. No, instead, they were mechanized weapons that thrust out bullets mixed with just enough heat to burn these people.

It sure did the trick, but the hard part was always hitting them, and they were fast enough to dodge these bullets that the GCPD and swats try to hit them with. And it didn't matter if the GCPD had the high ground, because they too had the high ground, "HALF OF OUR SNIPER FORCES ARE GETTING CRUSHED DEWOLFF!" Bullock shouted over Dewolff's com's.

"GET THEM AND YOURSELF OUT OF THERE BULLOCK!" Dewolff responded back, "WE CAN'T AFFORD TO LOSE ANY MORE PEOPLE THAN WE ARE ALREADY ARE!"

"SHIT!"

Dewolff duck to cover behind a Swat's vehicle, "BULLOCK?! BULLOCK?!"

"FUCK EM UP!"

"FOR CARNAGE!"

Dewolff from the glass view mirror can see multiple assailants involving Kasady's army pushing up to them, either with their weapons, their pure enthusiasm and behavior of knowing how powerful they are, and the sheer fact they have the power over the numbers of the GCPD.

But, then suddenly she heard a vehicle coming into the fold, the kind of vehicle that was the cavalry, "OH SHIT!"

"IT'S THE FREAKIN BAT!"

"FUCK!"

A few got hit by the Batmobile, while Batwomen leapt out of her car and into the fight at hand, "GIVE HER COVER NOW! THIS OUR CHANCE!" Dewolff shouted to her forces. And they did so, each GCPD member roaring with their own individual power; shooting and taking down Kasady forces. Regardless of the losses they've been dealt with from this month specifically, they wouldn't back down, not while there's still room and hope to be had. The kind of hope they can present, and the kind of hope hero's like the Bat and the Spider push forward against the evil that wants to drown this city in darkness.

Dewolff covered Batwomen's back from afar, firing at those that try to get the offense from afar, or those that simply try to overwhelm her. Meanwhile, Batwomen didn't hold back when it came to these people. Imbuing her gauntlet with electricity by tapping both of her knuckles together, Cassandra went forward as she always must do.

She trash them.

Toss them hard to the pavement.

Using the gauntlets with full force that dazed them, or sending them flying with her army steel boots.

She even used her batarangs that were designed to explode on impact; tossing them with a simple spin, or jumping over an enemy to send them hurling at multiple targets. It did the trick into disabling their meta abilities, due to the small dosage of symbiote not liking fire. Soon enough, the situation itself calmed down where Dewolff would try to get back communication with Bullock as her forces look to secure the building so they can help Spider-Man, "Bullock! Bullock! Do you read?!"

It was static at first, but he heard his sigh of relief coming through her ears, "Fuck…Yeah! I'm good! We're good! Nightwing came and helped. Looks like he is just about to help get this stuff going!"

"Great! Batwomen came in the nick of time on our end too. But we have to hurry before Carnage knows his crew are laying waste out here."

Dewolff wasn't shocked to find Batwomen right beside her when she turned around, "Commissioner, what needs done?" Cassandra questioned.

"Cell tower nearby," she pointed to the building opposite of the Gazette, "Prime and ready to use one of Wayne's sonic devices."

She nodded, "We move now. If we can."

"All units!" Dewolff radioed her units, "We're a go, I repeat, we're a go to help out Spider-Man!" She spoke as each force on the ground we're moving into the Gazette, "Weapons at the ready! They're could be more of them in there."

"I got eyes from the thermal reading commissioner. Definitely more in there."

"Yuri, make sure your sniper's have a clear view when we move in."

"Nightwing, move when ready, nothing else," Batwomen said through her own comm's.

Dewolff couldn't tell what Nightwing said, but she also heard Batwomen scoffing at something. She wanted to ask if everything was alright on her end, but they had no time for that.

They had to help the Spider before it's too late.

---

The Arkham Knight was in their submarine, it being mobile and moving through the Gotham river in the north east side that headed more to the county side that was out of the city. They had their hands behind their back as each of their people was manning the station or doing something else particular. In the blue lighting that the inside of the submarine displayed; some were moving around and talking to one another, either strategizing what weapons to be used or preparing for what's to come. There was an added room to have small spar between some of them to keep themselves on their toes while some of the others checked the capabilities of their weapon. The other half of the crew were busy maintaining the submarine's maximum capability.

It wasn't easy to keep this submarine up float, nor keep it hidden enough till they were able to get it moving

"Knight, I got word that the Chameleon is with our skeleton crew and heading to the mansion."

The Knight scoffed, "Disappears and then joins on the fun? I'll have his ass for that," they muttered to themselves, "And how is our skeleton crew?"

"On their way as we speak. Designated Oscar Mike at least 2 minutes from now."

"Good," The Arkham Knight can see the submarine was drawing near to a place that had all types of traps to take it apart. But, the Knight came prepared, something they aren't prepared for with how scattered these types of people are nowadays, "It's time… HEAVY USAGE ON OUR EMP!"

"YES KNIGHT!"

"THIS IS ALL WE'VE BEEN WAITING FOR! OUR MOMENT TO GET THE LEADER OF THE LEAGUE OF ASSASIN! OUR MOMENT TO BRING ABOUT CHAOS IN GOTHAM! OUR MOMENT TO SHINE! OUR MOMENT TO CONQUER! OUR MOMENT TO GIVE THESE HEROES A WORTHY FOE TO FIGHT AGAINST!"

"YES ARKHAM KNIGHT!"

"LET'S GO! LET'S GO! LET'S GO! NOTHING WILL STOP US NOW!"

The submarine began circling itself in large dosage of electricity, before sending out a powerful blast of emp. It ended up shutting down multiple layers of traps and devices that either exploded on its own, or all the more, had its power shut out. But not only that, it was powerful enough to travel far back to the city itself.

Something the Arkham Knight was expecting, and now that they're here, they can't stop now.

---

Selina had her hands by her mouth as she watched what was going on with Peter on her phone. She can see how much damage his suit was taken; from half of his mask being torn apart to where she can see part of his eyes and mouth bleeding, his vested suit metallic fabric can be seen, cracked even, to the point he had to bandage wrap some of his wounds that made his suit even more red than it already was. Not to mention the amount of diagonal slash marks his lower body also took just as much as his upper body took. He was enduring so much punishment while trying to keep the people alive in the Gazette that she wonders just how much he can keep taking. It wasn't looking too good because even though he's just about saving everyone's life. Selina also was in her little office while Hollie and a few others took care of the orphanage so she could sit down and cheer for Peter from afar.

But it wasn't going well she hoped for as he's only getting himself hurt in the process. It was coming to the point he was slowly starting to slow down, breathing heavily, holding one of his arms after stopping one of Carnage's tendril from hurting someone, but he kept fighting, kept pushing. Selina saw how he tried to use some fire from his web shooter to the symbiote so he could pull out Jameson, yet Carnage's partner would literally toss a hostage at him before he could. The only thing he could've done was fight back, use his webbings to keep everyone alive, but also take certain hits from Carnage whenever he decided to go for a kill.

And it reached a point where Carnage tendrils did end up catching a few people, going straight through their heart as Peter was stopped by Riot's hold on him, "NO! GOD DAMN IT JAMESON!" Selina can hear the angry roar coming from Peter as he broke loose from his grip and began pummeling with straight punches, "I'M TRYING TO KEEP EVERYONE YOU CARE ABOUT ALIVE! TRYING NOT TO BE THE MENACE YOU THINK I AM! BECAUSE I'M NOT!"

Riot, now getting used to its form, uses tendrils similar to Carnage as he would look to block Peter's attack, and then proceed to grab him, sending him right through the roof. Due to whoever was holding the camera, Selina couldn't see where Peter was for a second, before he was brought right back down, causing a web crack on the office floor, "YOUR NO HERO! YOU CAN'T SAVE NO ONE! YOU ONLY CAUSE MORE PROBLEMS THAN GOOD! I WOULDN'T BE THIS PERSON IF YOU ENDED UP KILLING THAT FREAK OF NATURE!" Riot shouted while pointing to the person behind. The camera right in front of Carnage that made him smile ear to ear before putting the camera person right back onto the fight.

Selina can see Peter struggling to break through the tendril that wraps around him, "Is that what you really want me to do Jameson?! TO KILL?! I CAN'T! I WON'T!"

"THE BATMAN DID IT! AND GOTHAM BECAME SAFER FROM IT!"

"Not…..! Every person….Has to die….TO MAKE THIS CITY BETTER!" Peter ripped through the tendrils, punching him straight through the jaw and kicked Riot off him. Peter briefly was in a kneeling position, wrapping more webbing around his arms and body to stop some of his bleeding as Riot picked himself up to fight again, "...YOU KNOW THAT! YOU KNEW THAT IN FACT! I DON'T KNOW IF YOU LOSING YOUR WIFE 3 YEARS AGO HAD CHANGE THAT!" Selina can hear Peter take a massive deep breath when picking himself up. Selina absolutely hated seeing Peter like this, and it's been so long since Peter was in a position where he had to take deep breaths like this, "BUT YOU KNEW KILLING WOULDN'T MAKE GOTHAM SAFER! AND I MADE A PROMISE TO YOUR DYING WIFE AFTERWARDS THAT NO ONE DIES UNDER MY WATCH!"

"You failed that Spider!" Carnage shouted in the background as the camera person was forced to turn to his direction once more. Selina scowled at Carnage, who was laying on the desk so casually with his partner sitting cross legs on top of him, "Stop being a hypocrite and face the reality you're weak as you are now! YOU WON'T BE ABLE TO SAVE EVERYONE!"

The camera was turned back to Peter. He was slowly walking around, keeping his eye on riot, keeping his eyes on the many people that were web up in the office, and especially keeping his eye on Carnage and Shriek in case they do something, "That's where you're wrong Kasady. Sure…People can die under my watch, and like today I failed to save people because of you….Making me a hypocrite in the process like all the other times… But I swear, as long as I can still move," Peter wipes the blood from his open mask, "NO ONE ELSE DIES UNDER MY WATCH!"

Selina couldn't help but smirk, no matter how tough things would get, she knows Peter will find a way to get through it. Then suddenly before she could see what happened, the power in the orphanage went out, including the usage of her phone. This got Selina to raise an eyebrow as she quickly got up, grabbing her famous whip she used to use for other purposes, and put it beside her waist. Exiting her office allowed her to hear the smaller kids cry and scream out when the whole power went out. Selina went rushing down as she saw Hollie meeting her there, "Power went out at this time of day?"

"It is Gotham after all, Hollie," Selina mentions.

"It's not just my phone, but likely the whole block too!"

"Shit. Hopefully the back up generator comes on otherwise I'm going to check on it for myself. Just make sure to calm down the kids while I handl-" Selina looked at her phone as it automatically got back power thanks to Peter's help making sure it can survive this type power outage surge.

But it made her stop her movement when she saw an alarm blaring notifying something bad was happening away from her. Hollie turned to Selina, catching her eyes steadily widening, "Selina? What's wrong?"

Selina now had a grave look on her face, "Hollie, make sure to have Lola stay for today," Selina was already running down the stairs, "And get a hold of Antonia and Kitrina so they can help Lola, Ekio, and Alice! Don't let anyone else into the orphanage! Lock it down!"

"Ok Selina!" Hollie said, not even questioning where her friend was going at a time like this.

Selina didn't have time to address Hollie on that subject, nor any of her kids that were surprised by how fast she was running. She also couldn't address the curious looks coming from her other workers passing by; such as the semi elderly woman Lola, Asian women that was Eiko, and the women that preferred playing games with the kids that was Alice. She had no time for any of that as she grabbed hold of a jacket and shoes and left right out the orphanage.

She can already see the panic in the East End, with people freaking out because of the power outage, cars being crashed into stores or to each other. Selina immediately had to jump over a car coming her way that led to her hopping on her motorcycle, "Fuck..This is bad.." Selina mutters to herself as she starts her engine and begins riding off, "Thank god for Peter giving this baby the juice it needs to survive…Everything is gonna get fucked like no man's land if the power doesn't come back on soon."

Selina had one destination in mind, and that was Wayne's Mansion.

---

Bruce was already in his expensive car as he took off the tie and began full throttling forward through the streets of Miagani island. He was getting a call from his car that came from his wife, "I know, I got the signal too. I'm on my way to the mansion!"

"Bruce! You can't just leave when your company needs you!" Selina said when driving her motorcycle in North Gotham, "Especially with this type of power outage going on in the city!"

Bruce passed by red lights at breakneck speed, passed by cars that weren't working, avoiding traffic after traffic. Due to the huge emp blast, every car that wasn't like his were affected that caused traffic, accidents, and a lot of problems in the streets of Gotham. Which meant he'll need to take another route to his mansion. He would drift corners from left and right as he reached the Upper East Side of Miagani island. He would reach near a river that he sent his car over a barricade, pushing a small button on his wheel that replaced the bottom of his car to shape it like a boat, and exchanging the wheels into an engine behind the car that blasted him forward, across the Gotham river "It's just a company! They can handle it and the people without me! I won't let them ambush my home and the people in it! I may not be Batman anymore, but that doesn't mean I can't defend my home from these enemies!" He can hear Selina groan with such annoyance to Bruce his own stubbornness, "With the type of power they just used, it's enough to knock out the city's grid for sometime."

"But when will it come back on?!"

"An hour likely. But it was hit at the specific source for a specific reason."

"Which is why they're attacking the cave."

Bruce was glaring hard at the fact that the likely group being the Knight of the sun were actually able to find not only his cave, but a way to penetrate it, "The cave has back ups to reestablish its network and electricity with ease. However if it another pulse like that happens-"

"Then they'll have Gotham in pure darkness for a longer time."

"It won't come to that but…"

"There's something worse than that?!"

"Knowing Barbara and Alfred, they won't subject Gotham to that state…So they'll have to purge their emp before it erupts once more. In doing so, it'll leave the cave and its hydro-electric reactor vulnerable. Enough to be exposed to damage, leading to an explosion that will dismantle everything I built there. Almost enough to destroy it even," Bruce grimly said, "And that goes for the mansion as well…"

"...Then maybe it's a good thing if it happens."

Bruce looked at the mainframe on his car that had his wife's name on displayed. He was astounded at how easily she said that, but he knows where it's coming from, "Selina… If we lose the cave th-"

"Then we'll find another way for everyone to do what they have to do to save Gotham! You prepared for times like this Bruce! Hell! Tim built another place for his own operation, but also just in case there's no longer a Batcave!"

"I….I know… I just don't want to lose…The one thing that makes me remember them…I don't want to lose their legacy…"

"...Bruce, it's time you move on from your parent's death. You can't bring them back, and you've done so much to help Gotham since then. Regardless if you lose the home, you still have a family you have to care for, and to save."

Bruce knows of this, knows of the found family he has due to years of working with them, helping them, and bringing about their greatest qualities that makes them who they are. He knows of this, yet, losing his parents when he was only 8 years old still haunts him till this day as a 47 year old man.

How could anyone get over seeing them gun down in front of them over a simple jewelry?

He made it his mission to be better, to never let that happen to anyone, and he has done a lot in his time as Batman because of that. But even so, he still thinks about them, still thinks about the what if's involving them, even thinking about what they would think about him as the man he is now pushing 50. He hopes that Selina is right that they would've loved all that he had done, and maybe forgive him from not only hurting, but taking people's life away when he went on a tyranny to perfectly get rid of the scum of Gotham about a year ago.

But he doesn't know, and doesn't know if he's ready to let go of his home, of their home. But now he doesn't have a choice if it came to that now does he? The only thing he's focused on now is getting there to help Barbara, Alfred, and Talia from the Arkham Knight offense coming into play.

---

Peter can't tell how long he's been going at it with Jameson, or Riot of that matter as Carnage dubbed him. He knew for a fact the sun was still up, or was beginning to slowly set by now. But he also knew he felt himself becoming tired as he kept avoiding Riot's incoming attacks, then put on a counter attack with a simple two hammefist being sent right down his head. It was enough force to send Riot down the other levels of the Gazette building.

He already saw Shirek having multiple employees being ripped from his webbing and coming after him. Peter groaned, and would push them aside again to the walls and web them up once more. It was then with his last webbing Peter heard that familiar jamming sound, 'No! Come on!' Peter quickly looked at his web shooter, seeing that it was still in use and recharging another batch of web fluid to be of use, 'Only one more left…I got to end this now…! Without killing Jameson!'

"Move Spider! Move!" Peter's eyes widened, already seeing Carnage next target as Shriek laughed alongside her boyfriend while they kept torturing Peter to not stop his heroic play. Peter rushed forward, moving fast to kick Carnage tendrils from hurting anyone, stopping a person from being thrown out of the roof by grabbing him and lightly tossing him up the ceiling with his webbing keeping them in place. The tragic part was due to Peter's fight with Riot, whatever people that was thrown out the window because Peter webbing from the outside was still of use, ended up coming back inside the Gazette thanks to Shirek telepathy.

It meant no matter what he did, they'll keep the hostages here just to make sure Peter keeps failing to save them, by not killing Jameson. His spider sense was lucky enough to warn him of Shrieks move, or whatever the people in the Gazette was trying to do to him. But then every time he gets one up against Riot, or whatever Carnage wanted to do, he can't sense it and has to keep an eye on them. What's worse was how ruthless Riot was into killing Peter, always kept coming back for more with how much Peter had tried to keep him down, but not do too much where he'll kill him, it only made it harder for Peter in terms of keeping everyone alive, 'Jameson isn't as strong as Kasady, but that doesn't mean I should just underestimate him...Damn it..!' Peter kept moving around, saving people from Carnage and his girlfriend, 'Body on fire, body restless, body hurting, haven't felt like this in a long time. Not even the fight with Eddie made me feel this much pain! And it's only worse because I just came out of a coma!'

Riot pounced up under Peter as he was distracted from saving people. He grabbed him by the face, and threw him hard out through a glass window, where he was then caught by Carnage with his red tendrils, "Na ah! Back in the fight you go!"

"Ahhh!" Peter was sent hurling back into the Gazette, where Riot strikes him with a clothesline, and then quickly grabs both of his legs and slams back on the floor, causing an audible painful moan from Peter. Peter would think because of the impact, it's what made the building lights go out in complete darkness, with only the light coming from the outside. Riot would turn him around, and began pummeling him. Each punch hurt, and hurt Peter's face like any other battle he went through. Blocking it with his forearms only made Riot pull it away, and hit him harder, "I NEVER FORGIVE YOU FOR NOT SAVING MY SON!"

Peter spat out blood as he slipped a punch coming his way, somehow still having consciousness to move his head,"...I tried my best Jonah…"

Riot choked him by the neck, keeping him in place where his punches landed with force. The force of the punches didn't hurt Peter, but it was the after effect, and then it builds, and builds, to where Peter kept feeling the intense migraine of the blows, "THAT WHAT YOU SAID BEFORE! AND THE SAME THING AFTER MY WIFE DIED! BY THE SAME VILLAIN THAT WAS OBSESSED OF YOU THAT HE MADE HIMSELF INTO A SPIDER SLAYER! AND WHAT ABOUT MY NIECE?!" Jameson stopped his punching and raised Peter close to his face where the symbiote peeled away to show his furious expression, "SHE BECAME JUST LIKE YOU! A FREAK OF NATURE! AND I'M SUPPOSE TO ACCEPT THAT?!" Peter tried to push him away, trying to remove his grip as the symbiote submerged Jameson face back to its monstrous form, "I WON'T ACCEPT THAT! THAT SHE RAN AWAY FROM ME TO BE SOME GOODIE HERO JUST LIKE YOU!"

Peter's head was pounding, not just from the assault, not from the darkness that was plunging from his eyes, but his spider sense going nuts because of Shirek's power being of use. She's gonna hurt someone, just as he kept hearing her laughter, her boyfriend's laughter of his own miserable beating going on. There even was a brief moment as Peter began losing consciousness that he believed Jameson had a point, 'Maybe…He's right… Maybe all I'm good for is…..Making everyone's life harder than it should be…'

But then he quickly remembers all the good he had done, the people he had saved, the friends and relationships he's built over the years because of who he is.

And the fact he's still trying to be good, to be better, to be sure that no one else dies when he's around.

People's lives were on the line.

His life was on the line.

And when he saw through his one piece lenses that the Batcave was being invaded by unknown enemies. His eyes widened, his brain climbing back to the surface as he realized one, clear thing.

His family needed him now more than ever. And he can't afford to die right now.

He can't quit, not now, not ever.

Peter clenching his jaw, mustering all the strength he knows he still has, and using his elbow to break Jameson's grip away from his throat. Peter growled and squinted his eyes from numbing pain felt from his shoulders, bicep, his suit protected him from the worst but by god, it was hurting like hell, ache like getting burnt from the sun itself. But he pushes through all the pain to gain air, and he quickly throws out a webline to move under Riot, to where he quickly flips backwards to kick him behind that sends him across the wall, creating a hole that briefly sends him flying out of the building. But again Shriek was at work, bringing back Riot into the Gazette, "Keep him busy babe!"

"Already was!" Peter moved to save more people in the building; taking hits from Carnage, but also deflecting whatever tendrils that were gonna hit innocent people. Yet through all the motion, Peter caught a shift in Carnage expression as he turned to the outside, "BABE! KIL-"

A loud noise erupted, a specific type of noise was occurring that hit not only Carnage hard to let go of Vicki, but also affected Riot who came back into the building. They howled and screamed from the intense noise that only they could hear. Shriek's eyes widened of what happened, she got up off Carnage and was gonna use her powers to essentially kill all the workers in the building.

But Peter is fast in this approach, jumping for a spin kick that knocks her lights out while catching Vicki in bridal style, and placing her safety on the ground "Vicki! Get everyone out now!"

"Don't need to tell me twice!" She ran and went to help whoever she could out the building

"NO!" Even as his suit scrambles to gain back control, Kasady wasn't gonna let this slide, "NO ONE LEAVES! THE ONLY WAY YOU LEAVING IS THROUGH MY HA-"

Before he can finish off his sentence, Dick came from the roof, electrifying him with Escrima stick, and then leapt off him while Cassandra brought her heel right down to the top of his head with an added flip. Not only that, the GCPD made it to the top of the building; using their artillery on Riot and Carnage so they could burn both of the symbiote, with Dewolff leading the charge. Once done, Peter ran to Jameson, jumping on him as he grabbed hold of his body to pull him out, "Nooo! I…" Peter pulled Jameson out from the symbiote as the GCPD did quick work on taking care of it, "I…I need it…To stop you…"

"Look around you Jameson! This didn't solve anything but made things worse! Just like with Scorpion all over again!" Peter kept his eyes on Carnage as the GCPD moved in on him. The fire was hurting Kasady's symbiote suit that he can see him almost clear as day, "I get that you're still hurting from losing your son, your wife, and niece, but you can't keep putting your anger on me or any other person that wears a mask like me! Look at all this!" Peter gestures to how trash, broken, and crushed the Gazette office was. Whatever was that made this place famous over the years, was now tarnished because of their fight, "Look at the people you hurt!" Jameson looked to his place, looked at the people, seeing everything destroyed, the people got hurt or worse, killed because of his rage for Spider-Man.

Jameson, exhausted, now had a shameful gaze of all the things he had a part in playing, "What I've done…?"

Jameson didn't have the strength to fight back or give a sense of reason to the rage he felt for Peter. He ended up letting the GCPD take care of him and the rest of the employees in the building. Cassandra and Dick join Peter's side just when things were getting more hairy for him, "Sorry we're late," Dick said.

Cassandra immediately was checking Peter, one hand grabbing his chin and the other his hands, "Had to stop his army lower levels. Sorry…We didn't-"

Peter lean just a bit in Cassandra hands on his chin, while adding a gesture of touching her as well, "I'm…" he stifled a small groan, "Good..Just need a few minutes of rest and I'll be really good," Cassandra tilt her head, to which Peter gather she didn't believe him. He would've loved to banter with her right here and now but there were present matters at hand right now, "But now you both need to make a mad dash to the cave, now!"

"We got him on the rope's! We take him out now then it's one less thing to worry about in Gotham!" Dick tried to reason with him.

"Which is why we got this under control. Both of you needed to go to help the other's right now!"

"Bu-"

Dick saw Cassandra head turn to him, she automatically shook her head and shut down whatever he wanted to say, "The Knight is going after her. Spider will handle the rest."

"Hold on people," Commissioner Dewolff said, halting her forces as she observed Carnage form scrambling, trying to hold himself together as the symbiote was going through hell from sonic emitter coming from the cell tower, and the bullets that was burning the hell out of him, "Spider! Gon-"

Peter's eyes went back to Carnage, it widened at seeing what Carnage was trying to do, "EVERYONE BACK NOW!" Peter pulled as many GCPD units he could while both Cassandra and Dick the same when Carnage exploded out spikes of tendrils. It put distance from him that he moved quickly, grabbing Shirek, and leaping out the window.

"Go! Now!" Peter shouted as he went straight after Carnage, "I got him!"

Dick wanted to rebuttal again, but Cassandra didn't let him. Their job was done, but now they're needed somewhere else quickly.

---

Barbara had already got the cave up and running again as the alarm went off due to the incoming intruders that were fast approaching the cave. She and Alfred were setting up countless counter measures to keep back what seemed like the Arkham Knight's own submarine coming to the cave itself. It was doing the job, but it wouldn't last if the Arkham Knight sent another kind of powerful emp there again.

And they both know what's going on in Gotham already, another type of emp on that scale will affect the city in a bad way. It didn't help that there was also an alert on Barbara's screen that had unknown vehicles coming to the Wayne mansion. It was a huge coordinated attack going on, one from below and one from the top.

The easier option would be to maintain power for themselves so the loads of defense mechanics can work to take care of the Arkham Knight and their army. But then, it would leave Gotham's power damaged and it'll take awhile for it to be corrected and set up properly. With a blackout that magnitude? The city would go to hell fast.

Something Barbara and the rest of the Bat family had experienced already several times over.

Barbara hated how well planned this was, and even hated more that they're back to a corner. The only right thing to do was make sure Gotham doesn't become submerged into chaos; not like the ton's of gang wars, the ton's of super villains causing havoc against one another, no man's land, crisis events that involved gods and monsters hurting the city, and especially when Arkham city was a thing, "Alfred! Draw power from the cave! They're gonna be setting up another emp at us!"

Alfred began doing so. Talia couldn't help but frown at where specifically they're drawing power from in the cave. As she saw on the monitor, they were trying to draw more from the hydro nuclear reactor itself, "If you do that, it'll leave this place defenseless! Why sacrifice this place knowing that it'll put us in jeopardy?!" Talia questioned.

"Isn't it obvious Ms. Al Ghul?" Alfred was able to get the cave to draw more power from the source that keeps everything afloat from the mansion to the cave.

An alarm blared loudly in the cave that had the bat's swarming around, "WARNING! DRAWING POWER FROM THE HYDRO-ELECTRIC REACTOR WILL DEPLETE THE CAVE AND MANSION ELECTRONIC USAGE, AND WILL LEAVE IT VULNERABLE FOR HOSTILES!"

Alfred would look to Talia beside her, "We could survive, push back the enemy, but what about Gotham? We can't let it be shrouded in darkness just because we would keep you safe from them."

"It can't be just about you Talia," Barbara added, "Just as you matter, this city matters. Whatever happens next…I just hope we get through it," Barbara may have worried in her tone, but she is confident in the decision she had to make right here and now. She looked to Alfred as he did the same, "Ready?"

He nodded, and both pressed the button just when they saw the Arkham Knight was getting ready to let loose another emp blast. Talia could only scoff at the choices these people made, "Then we have to fight for our lives until everyone comes to us."

"Do you still have your gun Ms Gordon?" Alfred asked as the whole cave suddenly went dark.

"I…Do."

"Better use it if time arises, it's either them, or you," Talia said for a moment, closing her eyes, concentrating on the person she needed now.

---

Jason was in a bar, getting himself a drink in the afternoon. He saw his phone blaring, already saw what was going on in the Batcave, but didn't want to heed the call. Then there was the tv that showcased what Peter was dealing with too, and it felt like the world was trying to force him to make a choice. But all he really wanted to do was be in his own little world right now where he didn't have to worry about anything.

But he ended up sighing to himself before taking a sip of his drink. Jason knows what he had to do, especially now feeling a migraine occurring in his head that had nothing to do with the alcohol, "UGH!" He clutched his head, setting the glass of alcohol away from him

"Jason….They're coming…To the cave."

As soon as he heard her voice came and went, so was the headache. Jason shook his head, his mind was already made up before Talia's voice. But that didn't mean he had to like it.

---

The Arkham Knight submarine tried to dispense another emp blast, but in turn, a small focal blast hit the submarine to shut down its usage of the emp. It didn't do damage, but it's damage lies on whatever was making use of the emp, "REPORT?!" The Arkham Knight asked as they went to look at their computer system being slightly fired.

One of the members coughs from the smoke as one another grabs a fire extinguisher to put out the fire that erupted, "Just…As you predicted, Knight! The Bat family ended up protecting the city more than themselves!"

The Arkham Knight couldn't help but snicker, "Then push forward. Our submarine looks to be still of use to move around, and do some huge damage to that cave…FORWARD NOW!"

---

San Diego, California

"As of right now we're trying to see if we can get any coverage of what else is going on in Gotham. It seemed that they had some sort of blackout but we are getting some word that a majority of the employees at Gotham Gazette have been rescued thanks to the likes of GCPD, Spider-Man, Batwomen, and Nightwing."

Stephanie had her coat, pants, and shoes on along with her bag behind her back as she continued to watch any news going on within Gotham. So far, there was nothing else she could gather from news alone about what else was going on in Gotham, other than that brutal fight Peter was having between the three villains in the Gazette.

She is glad that he was able to not only survive but save however much he could after being handicapped and forced to go against more than one person, 'Why god...? Why does he have to go through scenarios like this without help?' She questions not just to herself, but the man above her that watches over everyone, 'It's always been like that for him, fighting against odds that are out of his favor. Even if Dick and Cass helped him, why must he battle multiple threats by himself? It's not fair...!'

Stephanie turns to see Tim walking to her, she shooed her thoughts away when she saw him rummaging through his phone to get anything out of the Batcave, "Anything?" She asked.

He shook his head, "I got nothing. No communication, no way to gain access to camera, or even to at least connect to the others outside of the cave," Tim sighed and frowned, "Something else is going on in the cave, beyond what's going on with Peter."

"Well we're not gonna find out if we keep standing around."

"So it's decided then."

Stephanie met his frown with hers, "Like we had a choice in the matter. The city, the people in it, and our family was gonna pull us back to it eventually."

Tim could only nod as they both ended up jogging out the house, "It's been awhile since we used the flight mechanic from the red bird though! I'm not sure if we'll get there in time!"

Stephanie hopped into the passenger seat of the red car designated as the redbird and opened up for her, "No time like the present to get it going!" Tim vault over the hood of the car and get into the driver seat, "You sure you wanna fly one handed?"

Tim raised his eyebrow when he started the car, "You have yet to get a license."

"Yet!"

"Then the answer is no Steph."

Stephanie would've pouted at that, but there wasn't time for cute couple things right now. They have to head back home to help their family.

---

Gotham

'Ugh! God damn it! My shoulders…My body…Really need to rest..!' Peter thought to himself as he was chasing Carnage through Miagani island. He tried swinging with one arm so that way it would be more efficient to lessen the pain, but it didn't matter because all he felt was the pain surging through his body, '...But I can't…" He clenched his teeth, kept focus on the man he's trying to catch, 'Not when I'm close to getting this guy!'

As always, Peter pushed through the pain and kept going, kept swinging as fast as he could. Because of the toll on his body, his speed wasn't as fast as he wanted, but neither was Kasady. Kasady's suit seemed to still fluctuate around him, still being surrounded around him and being able to use their ability to traverse Migani island. But it wasn't as composed as earlier, it was if he lost a significant amount of mass that Peter can quite literally see the normal side of him. Then add to the fact his suit was carrying his partner carefully as it could.

They both were in a pickle of both pain and fatigue.

Yet, Kasady had just enough to make him the monster he was, and Peter had enough strength to keep fighting. Kasady would use his own tendril from one hand to toss a car at Peter. Peter's eyes widened, seeing a civilian in it, 'Crap!' Peter let go of his webbing, horizontally rotating his body to dodge the car from hitting him, but he latched onto it with his hands, moving on top of the vehicle where he began connecting webs to a building and a nearby above train station. Peter was confident that the large webbing he created in the street would catch the car and prevent damage, that he spun two webs out, and waited for the right moment till the car was caught by the huge webbing to then thrust himself forward like a cannonball.

Peter went speeding forward, quickly catching up to Kasady. Kasady turned, letting a tendril try to swipe him easily, but Peter pulled out a webbing to dodge with ease. He kept moving like a flying jet, "YOU'RE NOT GETTING AWAY KASADY!" Peter roared out before landing a square punch to his jaw that was protected by the symbiote. In return, Kasady symbiote had to grab hold of Peter and toss him to where they both would be landing.

They crash landed on top of Miagani's upside subway transit. Both rolling, and bouncing, causing dents on the train. Kasady's suit protected Shirek from getting hit by the collision when landing and recovering in the middle of the train itself. Both he and Peter were now on all fours on the train, with Kasady symbiote holding Shriek behind him like a carrier.

Like Peter's damage condition, Kasady too suffered his own injuries; one side of Kasady's body and face was covered in the red symbiote. It was moving around enough to make sure Kasady would survive whatever Peter was gonna throw, and he couldn't help but smirk. One part of his face smiled with his sharp teeth with his white jagged eyes, while the other normal face was just as crazed as the other. Meanwhile, Peter glared towards Kasady, and it only made his smile bigger when he can finally see a bit of the man behind the mask, the wear and tear he suffers, the anger that riddle in those hazel eyes, the man who he so badly wants to keep torturing and show him his true purpose.

To be with him, to be with his found family.

Both were exhausted, taking heavy breath from serious events that happened to both of them. But like one and the other, they won't stop till they achieve their desired goal. Peter to take Kasady and his army down, and Kasady to torture Peter, and bring him to his fold, "We can keep doing this all day Spider…! But you won't get us today!" Kasady spoke as his suit and his own original voice came in and out between each other.

"Sure about that?!' Peter asked as under them, the orange sunset glazed over their exhausted bodies. Peter stood up, his one arm holding his body as he did.

He would then grip his hand, before gripping his other hand, and proceed to run forward, "YOU STOP Me NOW THEY'LL DIE!"

"I won't let you hurt them!" he said with a scowl on his face, not stopping his soon to be assault.

Kasady laughed at what he thought he meant, all the more raising Peter's heartbeat that it wasn't who he thought it was, "Not them," Kasady pointed to the train before, dodging his strike and leaning quickly to Peter ears, "Your Redhead…And your pet cat.."

Peter let out a small gasp, his eyes widened, quickly grabbing Kasady by the throat, "WHAT DID YOU DO TO THEM?!" Kasady's answer was a laugh. Peter in turn slammed him hard onto the train, pushing him through it causing more panic inside the train, "WHERE ARE THEY?!" Kasady still laughed, "I SWEAR TO GOD IF YOU LAY A HAND ON THEM-"

"Oh I'll love for you to kill me if you can!" Kasady headbutted Peter right on the nose that put distance between them. The blow itself dazed Peter that he found himself almost falling off the train, but he recovered by sticking on the side of it, and flatten his body on it so he can dodge another incoming train on the other side of the railing.

It was then suddenly Kasady summoned whatever energy his suit still had, by creating large tendrils that connected to train rails. The train itself started bumbling and tumbling like it was on ocean waves. Peter can hear the civilians on the train screaming from Kasady's next move. He flipped himself back to the top of the train, "YOU HAVE A TRAIN TO CATCH!" Just before Peter was about to stop him from causing major damage on the train, Kasady was then successful by motioning the train left and right, letting the train rocked back and forth.

Peter kept his balance and went for a jumping axe kick, but was stopped by the now awakened Shirek. She had just enough strength to stop his attack so Kasady sent the train tumbling off the railing, "NOW GO BE A HERO!"

'DAMN IT!' Recomposing himself back on the train, Peter did just so while Kasady leapt off the train leaving Peter to do what he does best. Having to just find out Kasady had not only Mary Jane as hostage, but Felicia Hardy too, Peter's own brain was trying to figure out how he found Felica of all people. He knew she was away from Gotham, so how did he find her? Or Mary Jane for that matter? But he couldn't focus his thoughts on them right now. Because he needed to save people, 'Gotta use as much webbing as I can and then…' Peter leapt off the train, falling backwards where he quickly configure the pressure on the web shooter, before bursting gigantic webbing out, connecting from one end to the building, performing a loopy loop around the back of the train carts where he connected another huge webbing where the train railing was at.

Landing back on the side of the train, Peter again configure the pressure of his webbing back to its normal setting, running along the side of the train cart where he began spraying webbing left and right of both the buildings and train railing to have an added support of keeping the train afloat, '...God I hope my body can handle what comes next. Because I was just in a coma too and now…Probably would be in another coma after this..' He worryingly thought to himself as he configure his web shooters once more, leaping to where front of the carts was beginning to reach the ground, he again let loose a gigantic webbing from the front side of the train cart, wrapping it around, not just once, or twice, but three times before connecting to another building. Peter saw his web shooters getting extremely low as he managed to stop the back and front carts of the train landing on the ground. But he wasn't in the clear when he landed back on the train with a roll as he noticed the webbing wasn't gonna hold due to some already tearing off from the buildings and train railing, and because the middle of the cart doesn't have the extra support to keep afloat, Peter needed to act fast, 'Can't let them down..Can't use web shooters…' Peter ran right where he needed to be, stopping right by the middle, 'And I already knew this was the plan..' Peter can hear every cry, scream from the train and to the streets below him if he doesn't move. The power outage was still affecting cars and traffic, meaning there were also some people trapped in those cars for various reasons.

And Peter can't let them down, not a single one of them

'NO ONE ELSE DIES! COME ON PETER!' Peter shouted to himself as he pounced to the ground, kicking and pushing the few cars away from the train, but he couldn't get to the rest.

It was then left with the hard part, Peter got into position where the specific carts were beginning falling faster, 'COME ON! COME ON! COME ON! I GOT THIS!' And then he quite literally catches the middle of the train on its side, his hands smashing through the piece of metal to hold it over his head, "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Peter screamed out from the utter pain, the utter weight the train was on his body. His own body squatted so low to the ground as he kept hold of the train itself.

He breathed heavily, as if he was having an asthma attack, in and out, as he moaned in pain. As he held the middle cart, the front and back of the cart were now stable to hold the train up, 'God….Please….Let….Me hold this…So I can…' But even if it was stable for now, it was only because of Peter holding a piece in place. Peter was squatting lower, and lower, to the point his legs was stretch out apart from one another, to the point it was shaking, to the point his arms was becoming numb, and to the point he felt himself slipping to unconscious without how much he's holding up right now at his condition, 'Oh….Jesus….I…I can't…I…Know I can...…Have held up…Heavier stuff…But everything freaking hurts..!' Peter looks behind him, around him, and even to the train he's holding where he can see the people he's trying so desperately to save. Various of them were scared, bewildered, shocked at what they were seeing of Gotham very own hero was doing. Yet Peter couldn't stop the fears protruding through the train cart as he began hearing some of his webbings snapping and losing their support, causing him to go lower, and have people scream at the present fear that was coming forth.

They're all scared that they are going to die, that Gotham's friendly neighborhood Spider-Man can't save them.

For the first time in a long time, Peter can't think of a way out of this, can't think of a solution to save the people on the train. He could try to hold this for another minute, 5 minutes, or 10 minutes, but it wouldn't matter if he didn't get these people out of the train, or the people in the streets out of the way. It was essentially a lose lose situation, no way to win, and all the more to lose. It also just seems more unlikely with the amount strain his body went through that he couldn't hold the train any longer than he wanted too, '.....If only I didn't take so….Much damage from that fight…..Or used so much…Power in my web shooters,' Peter felt himself drawing closer, and closer to the ground, '...I could've…done more…'

Peter tried, he tried his damndest, but with his condition, he felt himself at his limit, and he hated being at his limits, he hated losing, and most of all, he hated when the cards weren't in his favor.

"LET'S GO PEOPLE! SPIDER-MAN NEEDS OUR HELP!"

"COME ON COME ON! MOVE!'

"GET AN EXTRA CROWBAR OR SOMETHING!"

"HOLD IT A LITTLE LONGER SPIDEY!"

Suddenly as if God listened to Peter, the people of Gotham came to his rescue, shocking him beyond belief. Each civilian moved to get whoever needed help out the vehicle. They broke windshields after windshields, moving fast as they could, and seeing this, seeing the people of Gotham helping him but also others. Then there were the firefighters coming to the rescue too, paramedics, officers, with again, the civilian's contributing to help him since they didn't have their vehicles at this time. The civilian brought various ladders one after the next, from stores that sell them, and even set up mattresses to help the people out of the train "OK PEOPLE! WE NEED TO GET THESE PEOPLE OUT OF THEIR ONE WAY OR ANOTHER! SPIDER-MAN NEEDS OUR HELP PRONTO!"

"LET'S MOVE!"

"ON IT CHIEF!"

All this, seeing all this happening in Gotham, the place that Peter has tried so hard to help for 12 years after failing to do the right thing when he got his powers, ignited something inside Peter, '...Look at them…' Peter watch on how everyone help them get the train open, how everyone made sure the people were able to get on the ground level as gently as they could, how everyone made sure to get people out of the vehicles, Peter saw all this, the community coming together, Gotham coming together, '...Didn't have too…They didn't have to help me…Years ago they all would've looked away…Call me a freak…And say I'm the problem…' Slowly, Peter started lifting his legs a little higher, no longer breathing through his mouth, but focused on his nose, '...So…Who am I to give up…' Peter grabbed his bearings, pushing and pushing till his legs raised up and up, 'WHO AM I TO GIVE UP WHEN EVERYONE NEEDS ME?!'

'I WON'T GIVE UP! NOT NOW!" Peter now, summoning that inner strength he knows he has, that saved him countless of times no matter if the cards weren't in his favor, had let loose as he lifted the train overhead his head, 'NOT EVER!'

"AHHHHHH!" Peter roared loud, releasing the Spider strength to hold the train over his head.

The civilians in Gotham were moving with haste as they saw Peter being the only real support keeping the people that needed saving alive. He can see firefighters break open the windows if the door wasn't opening, officers gently guiding people down to mattresses or by way of a ladder that was held down by the help of civilians, and paramedics taking care of the rest by escorting people away from the scene. Everyone was helping one another, and if Peter wasn't so focus on holding this train up, he would've had the biggest smile on his face right now, because this is what he was always fighting for, 'Gotham has change…For better or worse…It has change for the better…Because of us, but most of all, because Bruce wanted this out of everyone… I'll keep fighting for this,' Peter stated his resolve to himself, 'I have too…For my family, friends, and the kids I want to have. Oh god…Kids..' Peter silently laugh to himself, letting himself truly smile as a thought came to his head out of nowhere, '..I really want to have kids with Cassandra,' thinking about her, thinking about his own found family helped keep his strength up, 'To have Selina spoil them rottenly, to have Bruce train them…Whenever he gets better. To have Alfred teach them so many ways into cooking, cleaning, and be a proper kind person. To have Dicks teach them gymnastics…If he isn't a dick that is…Heck, to have Jason help them out with handling bully's, properly that is…' Peter found himself chuckling again, aching from the pain since he can't exactly laugh as he should, 'Stephanie would so want to be a god mother and Tim would probably get annoyed if they don't share his love for solving things…. And I want to see Cassandra…Loving them, cherishing them, teaching them all sorts of things as I do the same…However much we have,' Peter felt himself lower, but his resolve was focused, tightened on one singular thought.

'I wanna see Cassandra be the wife I will marry. And the only way that'll happen, IS IF I KEEP PUSHING FORWARD AND NOT EVER LOOKING BACK!' With that thought, it didn't matter how tired he was, how much he was in, Peter made sure to keep the train over his head no matter what, till everyone was safe.

Every civilian in the area was awestruck by Peter's capability even at his condition. Seeing how much he's been through as of late to still be doing all this led to some people cheering him on. Peter looked around as he noticed a lot of people were all on the streets right now, "ARE WE…ALL GOOD?!" Peter asked in between grunts, "TRUST ME…NOT EASY HOW IT LOOKS!"

"WE GOOD NOW SPIDER!"

"OK…CLEAR THE AREA SO I CAN….DROP IT LIKE ITS HOT!" Peter quipped even in his poor condition. The firefighters and paramedics made sure this was done fast, so once it was clear, Peter would squat then toss the train up in the air briefly, and flip out the way, causing each cart to fall and cater the ground.

Again, the cheers were heard, the claps were heard, and Peter looked around to see Gotham appreciating him. Not like it was the first time, but this moment warmed Peter's heart as he found himself smiling. Yet, Peter did push his body to its limits, in doing so, he fell unconscious startling everyone as a few of them caught him from hurting himself more.

---

Cassandra was having a hard time passing through specific traffic to make her way to the Batcave. The power to the city hadn't got back on just yet and it made traveling around each block hell on earth. She had to be able to get the vehicle to jump over large groups of traffic without damaging or hurting anyone that was in the car. Same went for not being able to bash through them that could've caused harm to whoever was near them if there weren't any passengers in those vehicles.

While it brought annoyance to Batwomen as she now made it to North Gotham, Dick wasn't having it, "FASTER CASSANDRA COME ON!"

"I'm going! Can't hurt people!" She responded back.

Dick groaned behind her, "And there's no god damn way getting there quick enough! My wing jet is out of fuel at the moment! DAMN IT!" He shouted in anguish while punching the side of the vehicle.

Cassandra couldn't tell or say anything to make Dick feel better, nor make the situation any better then it wasn't already. All she can do is hope she makes it in time, or hope the others can get there time. And she dearly hoped Peter was alright, he wasn't good when she left him and her heart wanted to help him against Kasady. But she had faith in him to handle Kasady, and she has faith that he'll hold his promise to her no matter what.

---

The Chameleon kicked open the door that led to Wayne's mansion. He and the Knights of the sun scatter around the room with various weapons securing the area, "Zearch every room! Find zhe entrance to the cave!" He said to the army before going on his comm's to notify the Knight of their move, "Knight, vee've secured the area and are looking for a way to get into the cave."

"Oh! Good to hear from you Chameleon. Thought you vanish and disappear, would've been a bad move to do since I'll have to hunt you down and kill you."

Dimitri couldn't help but frown at the Knight's tone and threat being thrown at him so easily, "I wozuldn'y zare abandon a mizzion. Not when I'm obligated due to zou…Helping me get my mind back to wherze it is now."

"Exactly so! We're just about to enter the cave so make it quick. Either wise you and everyone up there are gonna face some unwelcome people that own the building."

Dimitri and the skeleton crew would get to work. The mansion was dark with no power, the only source of light was from whatever windows the place had since the sun was still up for now. Each of the army weren't alone as they made sure to cover one another back. Chameleon, on the other hand, ventures alone through the mansion; checking the kitchen as his pistol was held on point just as his knife was under the trigger ready to flourish out whoever he takes on. He made sure to check every opening the kitchen had, every little thing that was in there he made sure it was an entrance to the cave, but nothing occurred. He passed by some of the members of the Knights of the sun since some too transitioned upstairs.

There were multiple rooms this place had, something that wasn't surprising that someone like Wayne had, 'To thiznk…A rich man is Batman. Zho would've thunk…Kind of abvious now I think,' Dimitri mentioned to himself. Unlike most that would care such as the Arkham Knight, Dimitri doesn't very much have that same invested interest in who Batman really is. For sure, he can use it to his own advantage if he ever so chooses, and if Wayne survives this ongoing internal warfare with the Arkham Knight and Carnage. But for the time being, his focus lies on pleasing the Arkham Knight so he can go after his real target. The Spider. Dimirtri heard something drop, turning around, he saw a man drop on the floor.

The other behind him, and a few more that sounded like muffle sounds. From the corner of his eyes, Dimitri saw a woman he didn't recognize come at him faster than he would have shot her. She tackles him by leaping to him, her legs circling around his head and throwing him into the next room. Dimitri rolled, snarled at whoever this person dared to tangle with him, "You dazre…Go up against the brother of Kraven the hunter?!" He spoke with arrogance

"I dare," was all she said before taking out her whip, aiming for their legs and tripping him just before he could shoot her with his pistol. She would slap his gun away with her whip, but he once more rolled and tackle her to a wall, letting her drop her whip as he went to pick her up and wanted to suplex her from her waist, but she didn't let him, elbowing him in the forehead, elbowing the top of his head before kneeing and pushing him off her.

Dimitri got room to again retrieve his gun and knife, but this woman moved off the center line where the bullet can travel to kill her, and got low to perform a half moon kick that wasn't aiming to hit him, but aim for hands to knock the gun away. Once done, she went for a tornado kick that Dimitri dodge before coming at her with a vicious knee that landed square on her chest. She felt the air come out of her throat, and Dimitri grabbed her by the throat and bent her half way as he drove the knife close to her eyes, "I know who zou are. Felicia's Hardy mentor, the Catwoman."

Selina, still flexible even in her 40's, kick Dimiri's head to loosen the grip, allowing her to perform an aerial flip to toss him to the floor. She went for a high axe kick that would've stomp his face in, but Dimitri rolled out of the way, went to grab his pistol, but Selina ended up tossing a lamp as a distraction. He again misses his shot even when he dodge since Selina flips across the bed to kick him squarely in the chest.

Not noticing she quickly got her whip back, Selina jumped on top of him and wrapped the whip around his neck, enough to choke him but make him talk, "How the hell do you know about her?!"

"...Car…Nage…Won't…Save zer…Spider wil suffer..!" Dimitri said in between choking He pushed back to the wall, causing loud noise and her groaning from the impact alone. Dimitri would keep banging her wall to wall, loosening the choke, but bringing the knight of the sun to his way.

He was successful as they came running to the disturbance. Selina's shamrock iris widen at their gun's, arrows pointing at her, "Fuck…" Selina leapt off of him and jumped out the window, breaking it as guns and arrows began shooting in her direction.

This caused more attention than she wanted too. There were loads of Knight of the sun outside just as they were inside, and she used a whip to swing herself out of their view as they began targeting her, "KILL HER!"

Selina landed on the grassy lawn as the Knights of the sun began shooting in her direction. She ran like hell, keeping her head low as she passed by whatever statues Bruce had that took the damage for her. She felt bullets craze passed her body, graze, not shot. It didn't help that her mind was frantic of what happened to Felicia, her old protégé, 'How? When? Shit..I can't even have someone to blame,' she cut the next corner, and saw more of the Knights army coming her way. She took a huge roll to the side before tracing back her steps, 'No one but me. I should've kept better tabs on her after she disappeared from Gotham. Should've…But after she backstab Peter and I while burning all her bridges…'

'I hated her for it…Because she took too much of me,' She let out her whip to the roof of the mansion, jumping off the wall, using that momentum where she swung right into another glass window, straight into the living room where she landed on Knight of the sun member, "SHE'S IN THE LIVING ROOM!"

"Fuck!" She muttered to herself, she again quickly ran, avoiding more bullets coming her way as she exited the room. Each came to the main hall, surrounding her, leaving no room for Selina to escape without a bullet in her.

"We got her!"

"Let's waste her!"

"Shame really, she's a knockout afte rall."

Bullets were fired that made Selina flinch, but it wasn't at her. Rounds from afar that came from the outside that was being shot at them, "HOSTILE!"

"WHERE?!"

"OUTSIDE! ITS RED HOOD, OH SH-"

The glass window from the roof was broken and a member fell right in front of them. Some were bewildered of what could've tossed a person like that, and put him in a state beyond repairs, yet they didn't have time to think. Selina used her whip, plopping herself on the floor floor with one hand, then twirling herself around with her whip catching everyone around them by their legs, tripping some.

And the others were man handled by someone coming in from the top, dropping on one of them that crushed specific bones that kept them from walking. This person quickly went for a flying kick that hit one of the Knights of the sun, then twisted in the air for another kick while simultaneously hitting another with his fist. Selina would take care of the ones she tripped on the floor; her boots stomping on them, our right kicking and flipping herself in the air to put them to sleep. She stood back to back with the man that also came to her aid, "Took your time honey."

"Hm," was his only answer as the pair worked together in tangent taking on the Knights of the sun while Jason worked on taking care of the one's outside of the mansion.

---

The Arkham Knight submarine was able to punch through to the entrance of the cave. Even without electricity, they noted that the cave still was able to have some level defense that didn't involve any sort of electricity. Old tricks that entail either hand made traps causing explosion, damaging the submarine, strong metallic doors that they just punch through, source of bugs that tried draining the submarines powers.

But the Knight was prepared for it all, letting loose the target missile to have the submarine where it needed to be, "WE MADE IT THROUGH! THIS IS OUR ONE SHOT KNIGHTS OF THE SUN," They shouted in both triumph and glee of what they were able to do. While their army went forth to get into position to grapple up to the cave itself, the Knight would set their submarine to self-destruct in 20 minutes as they then went to the lower level of their ship, "INVADE HIS CAVE! DESTROY IT ALL!"

"YES ARKHAM KNIGHT!"

The Knights of the sun open up the submarine's hatch, a whole bunch of them grapple out of the water to the cave itself. Meanwhile, Arkham Knight turned the wheel to open the lower hatch that led to deeper parts of the cave. They immediately dive into the water, swimming without any problems as their suit and mask provided them with oxygen to swim to where they needed to be.

Loads of the Knights of the sun scavenge the cave itself. Each used goggles to see the pitch darkness of the cave. They used sign language for one another to move in specific directions, planting bombs everywhere they could as they were also searching for Talia Al Ghul and whoever else was in the cave.

Some check the lower levels that house the engineering side, some check where the Bat held statues of collectables such as a dinosaur and a giant penny while housing some equipment's of the villains he took down over the years, some check where he held his vehicles, some check where science lab was at, the cave was huge where it had layers upon layers of never ending equipment's all from the years of Bruce being Batman, and carry on by others. The Knight brought along a lot of their army for this mission, especially topside, but they also still had more of their army at their base.

And plenty more if need be outside of Gotham.

Each of the Knights of the sun patrolled the area like a black ops team that knew this meant business. One word could mean their mission will get complicated for them, one sound meant compromise, one mislook could even mean death, and they know they can't fail the Arkham Knight.

When the Knight themselves is close to achieving what they want.

The Arkham Knight swam to the now depowered hydro-electric generator that was under the cave and helped power everything the cave had, and also the mansion itself. They took a device out from their utility belt, planted a timer and let it stick to the generator, "30 minutes. Make this count."

"KNIGHT WE'RE GETTING SLAUGHTER UP IN THE MANSION!"

"HE'S HERE! AGH!"

'Shit, gotta move and get that bitch quickly!' Arkham Knight would use their comms, sending a signal to get reinforcements so they all can make their escape.

---

Jason was in an all out gun fight between the Knights of the sun. He was able to get them off Selina's back as he made sure the pressure was on him. He hid behind cover to reload his AR rifle, in doing so, he was still aware of his surroundings, pulling out his pistol to shoot one in the head, and shoot the other who tried to flip over a truck to shoot him with an arrow.

But both were too slow for him. He put it back to the side as he went back to his work, pumping himself up, rolling his neck, "Alright," he got up from his cover and started shooting once more, "DON'T RUN NOW! BETTER TO MEET YOUR FATE BY ME THAN HIM!" Jason shouted as he shot a number of the Knights of the sun with ease.

One.

Two.

Three.

Four.

Bodies started dropping with precise shooting. Some tried to flank him by going offensive in close quarter, but Jason smacked one hard with his forearms, shooting them in the head, duck under another, shooting legs then head, and use his red mask to heat butt someone, breaking their own mask and putting a bullet into their head. If that wasn't enough, Jason put his rifle behind him and would use his two swords. Slicing arrows before it could even hit him, Jason cut up whoever stood before him.

He was like a mad man letting loose on those that dared challenge him. Not even a bullet to the body stopped him thanks to his armor. He knows most ran into the mansion that was likely being dealt with by Selina and Bruce.

He went jogging in with his sword back behind him and rifle ready to fire again, he made all the noise in the world to know he's coming in hot and ready. He checks angles, shooting those who try to get the jump on him; from kitchen, living room, wine cellar, didn't matter where, cause Jason left none alive and present, "THIS IS ALL YOU GOT?! WHAT KIND OF ARMY ARE YOU TO TRY TO TAKE US ON!" Jason taunted.

He heard someone drop behind him from the top level, and he was quick to react, "WHOA WHOA!" Selina had her hand up as she stood up over an unconscious Knights of the sun that she threw off the bedroom level, "FRIENDLY!"

Jason groan as he put the gun down, "God damn it Cat, the hell is wron-"

Jason and Selina heard screaming coming from the upper levels, both turn knows it was indeed one of the army's, but they know who was causing those screams. Jason and Selina ran up the stairs to find the Knights of the sun being tossed around.

One was thrown through a wall.

The other tried to shoot Bruce, but was too slow and got his arm twisted, and then got suplex on.

One other tried to get him from behind, but he threw an elbow without looking, catching him by the arm to throw him on the ground and began punching him.

Punching him.

Punching him till his own mask broke.

Repeatedly and repeatedly that he couldn't even hear his wife calling out his name, till Jason put the gun behind his head, "Is this what you called getting better Bruce? Because it sure as hell looks like you've been waiting for this moment to come so you have an excuse to kill again."

Bruce didn't say anything back, but he did stop his attack on one of the Knights of the sun. Selina would gently move his rifle away from Bruce's head, letting him stand up. Both saw that his white clothing he had was bloody up just like his hands was, "...Let's go, most retreated through the wine cellar," he spoke without an ounce of emotion in it as he moved on.

Jason and Selina looked at each other, neither could have a moment to catch up with one another, but even then, there was awkwardness in the air between the two that they'll have to talk about eventually. Both follow Bruce to the Batcave.

---

As the Knight swam back to the cave, they used a grapnel gun from the armor's wrist similar to Jason to pull them up. The Arkham Knight should've been amazed to be here, the place that Batman made and used everything to his advantage when going on a war on crime. Or the fact that this was the place he kept tabs on the Joker whenever he showcased why he was the clown prince of crime, but there wasn't gonna be a time to understand this place because it would all be destroyed soon enough.

The Arkham Knight saw smoke cleared the area where their team was at; from every angle, every level, and every specific place they were checking. The Arkham Knight's mask can automatically see through the smoke, and who did they see killing their man in it? None other than Talia Al Ghul herself; slicing and striking the parts of the Knights army that held the least protection before going for the kill. Not only was she moving through the smoke efficiently, but there was a sniper being shot at in the dark. Noticing where the bullet was traveling, she saw the butler was the one doing that by the waterfall. Then there were the added traps bringing problems with their army; bat's swarming all and about, some type of mechanical ice gun from Mr. Freeze was being shot around, booby traps that were catching their army in rope-like traps, and even the many vehicles the Bat actively moving around to get their army out in the open

The Arkham Knight analyzes that all this was being remotely controlled by someone in one of the jet's. The Arkham Knight stands up, "Dimitri, target the waterfall, sniper is there."

"Understood."

"Unit 1, focus fire on the jet! Unit 2, cover Dimitri, unit 3, on my signal shoot, and the rest stay clear from the traps and keep your head on straight," The Arkham Knight pulled out a sword and ran towards Talia Al Ghul, "I got the Demon Head! GRAH!"

Hearing that noise, Talia with her own goggles on saw the Knight coming at her. Dodging her thrust, and going for a strike of her own, they each began deflecting, parrying each strike before clashing one another face to face, "You will not have me!"

The Arkham Knight was stronger in the clash, pushing her back, "I don't think you notice what's going on, but I have the numbers," The Arkham Knight said as their duel continued.

Alfred heard someone reaching his position, went for a shot that landed causing an audible groan, but the Knights of the sun began shooting in his direction. He ended up having to jump down to the river that the Batcave had, shooting the water itself so the cohesion of it would break, and his jump wouldn't hurt him as much. Yet, he was in his old age and he shouldn't be putting himself in this kind of position, plummeting in the water, Alfred groaned from the entry point alone.

But he was still good enough to swim through to avoid as many bullets as he could. He did feel a bullet hitting his shoulder, but not to the point it hit his bones.

Meanwhile, Barbara could only stay in the Batjet as the Knights of the sun were shooting in her direction. The jet was bullet proof, but throwing grenades in her direction wasn't helping the spot she was in. All she could do was dock and cover as she tried having her traps tailoring to her, but one of them planted a bomb, and once it blew, the force pushed the jet making it fall onto some of the cars.

Barbara scream wasn't heard and she couldn't do anything at this point. The jet was overall fine, but she was now upside down as she tried to crawl to the back of the jet, 'DAMN IT…If only…' Barbara screamed again due to one of her shoulder dislocations from the crash. Before she could move again, she had to get that fix. Gritting her teeth, she used her one good arm to try to relocate it, closing her eyes from the pain, she did so, screaming again. She can also hear the Knights of the sun trying to break through. The only thing she had of use, was her fathers gun she always kept just in case.

Just in case she was in this particular moment where her life comes down to it. She doesn't want to pull the trigger because she's not that person, she's not like Bruce or Alfred for that matter to be able to step over that line. Sure Alfred was no Bruce, but Alfred doesn't abide by the same principle as Bruce, and he admired him for that when he was who he was long before last year. Barbara knew it hurt Alfred so badly to see that day he dread come to fruition. and she herself never wanted to do the same that Bruce had done.

She wanted to be different from them, and especially her father too. She didn't want to be left down with this one choice. Either them or her, 'If only I had my legs…I can be useful..'

So Barbara had to do what's necessary if it meant to survive. She hid in the cockpit, kept her breathing in order, and waited.

Once she opened, she started shooting, deciding its her against them.

---

Peter suddenly got up from his sleep, finding himself in the ambulance, "Whoa there spider!" Peter checked his face, still feeling his mask was still on, and he closed his eyes as he was still feeling the pain aroused in his body, "Relax! You're on your way to the hospital."

Peter looks to see the EMT worker, and funny enough, he recognizes her, "...I see you remember to not call me by my father's name, Ms. Morales."

Ms. Morales smirks at his quip, "How are you able to joke after all that you just been through?"

Peter chuckled, hurting, but chuckling regardless, "It's…A gift, now I hate to ask you but you have to let me go."

Ms. Morales snorted as if he was joking, but from the one side where she can his expression, he wasn't, "H-hey if your worried of them taking off your mask I'll make sure th-"

"No it's not that, I'm needed somewhere else, like right now," Peter spoke with agency in his tone.

"But you're hurt! My partner and I bandaged you up, stopped bleeding, but you have a few broken ribs, shoulders that are busted up that will break, and the same thing goes with your legs from that amount of force you kept over your head. Then you add the concussion and such, you should not be pushing yourself right now!"

"Please…Ms. Morales."

Ms. Morales looked into the one eye where she can see it all; anxiety, maybe fear, but his tone of voice and mannerism in his body display differently; confident and courageous no matter the odds. Morales sighed, "I hope you know what you're doing," she said as she unstrap him from the bed, "And why didn't you just, you know..Break out on your own?" She couldn't help but ask.

"I was raised by good people that taught…Me to ask first before doing anything…And Trust me…" Peter stood up as he limp lightly that Morales went to go hold him, but he steady his own self that he walked as if he wasn't suffering from plethora of injuries, "I do know what I'm doing," he open the door where he can feel the fresh breeze of winter hitting wherever his skin wasn't bandage up. He also can see the sun setting, letting in the night sky, "But at the same time, I wanna sleep again," Peter turns to Morales, smiling, "No rest for the wicked though."

"I hear that. Go get them spider!"

He nodded, flipping to the top of the ambulance and threw out a web line where he began swinging to Wayne mansion.

The driver saw Spider-Man swinging, "RIO IS HE NUTS?! THE GUY IS GONNA GET HIMSELF KILLED!"

"Well I did try to tell him that," she said, closing the door and going by the passenger seat to sit on, "But for him, there's no rest when people need saving."

"Guy is crazy I tell you, but you have a point I guess."

---

Bruce, Jason, and Selina made it to the cave from the wine cellar, an elevator brought them to where they had a viewpoint of the Batcave itself. Suddenly, they felt a huge explosion that made the place become unsteady. Bruce can see everything he built; from the vehicles, to the lab, his computer, from all the villains tool set he had from his many battles, everything was being destroyed. Everything he built was being destroyed, and that made him angry, furious to see all this that he clutched his bloody hands. The smoke cleared where he could see and analyzed the environment, 'Far too many to take on, but they're also too spread out,' Bruce took note of Talia being surrounded by the Arkham Knight and their army, 'Too many with weapons, has to be way to save her,' heard more explosion, a far bigger one coming under the cave that was destroying the workmanship that kept everything stable, 'The hydro-electric generator has been expose, enough to dismantle the place, but they'll need something bigger if they want to bury us all…To which the knight might already have plan,' he noted from afar, Alfred swimming to surface, trying to shoot at someone that was at the jet but he couldn't do it with his arms shaking. His eyes widened at the Knights of the sun looking, having their eyes on Alfred, and the Jet having Barbara in it as they also tried to get in to kill them, 'Can't let them kill them! Can't lose them!'

But then they turn and lock eyes on them, "SHOOT!"

The Knights of the sun began shooting at the trio. Selina was the first to move, ducking and cartwheeling, flipping her way to cover, Jason stood his ground, shooting back at all that had the nerve to try to get the drop on him, and Bruce followed his wife, "Jason! Provide cover for us as we go to help them!"

Jason answer with already shooting as many as he saw in his field of view

Bruce and Selina ran forward, hopping over obstacles, avoiding the rock formation on top of the cave beginning to fall under them. He was able to pass by where his costume was on display, quickly breaking it with an elbow, and grabbing his utility belt and gauntlets. He slapped it on the waist as they kept running forward. Selina covers Bruce angle, using her whip to hit around her and slap away the enemies that came before them.

Meanwhile Bruce pulled his batarangs, hit them dead on to distract them while Bruce and Selina were quick with their attacks, hitting and moving, "I got Talia! You go for Barbara and Alfred!"

Bruce used his grapnel and swung himself to Talia's location. He threw a specific batarang that threw out a flash, dazing whoever looked. Seeing this as an opportunity, Talia would swipe her sword around her, killing whoever she could, but she kept herself on her toe's when the Arkham Knight went back to fight her.

Yet, the Knight also had to deal with Bruce coming into the picture. He went for an overhead kick that the Knight dodge, but he didn't stop his assault as he ruthlessly hit the Knight from every angle, not letting them get a single breathing room as they couldn't let loose a swipe, and whenever they tried.

Bruce struck them hard, hard that somehow, they felt it through they're armor, "...SO THIS IS WHY FATHER LOVES YOU! HAHAHAHA!" Bruce dodge and weave, not caring whatever this person was getting at, "IF ONLY HE WAS HERE! WE WOULD'VE BEEN DOING THIS TOGETHER!" Bruce caught they're blade with both his hands, and put it right to their throat, "So…Wonderful…. To see you do all this."

Jason backed Selina up, shooting at those that tried to gun them both, but because he was out in the open he was getting shot at regardless which was the point. He wanted them to focus on him so he could put them down. Bullets hit him but didn't dent him properly with the amount of protection he had. He let out a roar, "YOU CAN'T KILL ME!" He shot everyone that was out in the open. Compared to earlier with being accurate, this time Jason was less so, spraying and hitting.

But not hitting enough to kill them as he should've.

Jason repositions himself; dash towards the trophy area that ended up getting blown up in front of him, "UGH!" The explosion itself knocked him to the floor and he can hear the Knights of the sun coming his way. He push himself and try to shooting, but his rifle clicked, "Fuck really?" He was in a position where he didn't have any cover as they began shooting, "Don't matter! KEEP COMING AT ME!" Dropping the rifle, Red Hood shot with his pistol, taking shots that were also hitting him where he was vulnerable like his shoulders, "KEEP IT COMING!"

Jason didn't care if he would die here, 'this would be a good death if anything,' he whipped out a sword along with combining the usage of his pistol to keep moving forward. It was this thought process of him embracing death if it should take him here and now.

Selina let her whip flow left and right, snapping and hitting each one of the Knights of the sun, but she ended up getting shot in the legs by someone else she didn't see, "AH!" She threw herself by the lab area that still had a bunch of chemicals still in use.

Selina ended up tossing each and every one of them, some did nothing, but others caused an explosion that gave her cover. Selina could see them trying to enter the jet, but Alfred and most likely Barbara pushed them back.

They try to return fire at Alfred, but he makes sure to submerge himself back into the water.

It wasn't looking too good for either of them, and even Bruce wasn't aware of what's going on at the moment as he was too focused on the Knight, "You come to my cave…Hurt the people I care about…And you laugh?!" He drove the Knight's blade close to their throat, "I can end it all right now!"

"So do it! Go ahead, end me and be what you were!" The Knight began at this moment of time.

Bruce wanted too, he wanted to let the anger, this bottomless pit of need, want to hurt and kill those who are threatening his city, he so badly wants to do it. But then if he did, everything he's been trying to do for the past year would be all for nothing.

This moment of weakness led to him getting shot, his eyes widened at feeling the bullet hit his chest that Talia and Selina saw this, "BRUCE/BELOVED!" They both screamed out.

Talia's moment of distraction got her head hit by a pistol, quickly going unconscious, and being held by the now visible Chameleon, "Got her!"

Selina caught one of Peter's older webshooter lying nearby on the table, she reached out and put it on her wrist, "Hope to god it's still in use!" She began spraying webbing and began wrapping around where she got shot in the legs. She still couldn't move, wouldn't know how to without Jason providing cover. Selina hated that she couldn't move to help anyone as now.

Being entirely useless than she wanted to be.

Bruce fell to the ground, blood wasn't pouring from his body and the Knight saw this, even feeling his body as they stepped on him, "Body armor?" Moving a bit of his clothing out of the wave, they took note of the armor, "One of your old tri-weave titanium armor plating? Ha! Always prepare huh Bat's?" The Knight then moved their pistol they had on them, "Unless you know right where to shoot that is," the pistol moved to his abdomen area, and shot Bruce as he howled in pain, "You're still great as ever Batman! Even better with your old age!" The Knight gestures for multiple of their army to torch up the place while some other escorts Talia up to the mansion, "It's gonna be such a pleasure when we take out everyone you love so it can fuel that fire if you take us on!"

All of sudden, in their moment of triumph, The Knight heard something coming through the waterfall. The Batmobile, and then they saw Batwomen and Nightwing launch out of the vehicle in midair. Cassandra went after the Arkham Knight, protecting Bruce and once again fighting the person that was trained by her mother, "GET AWAY FROM HIM!" She yelled out.

"FOR NOW I WILL!" Gauntlet and sword clash together one more, "YOUR ON A TIME LIMIT BAT! FIGHT ME! OR SAVE YOUR PRECIOUS FAMILY!"

Dick upon landing, felt a huge pain exert in his body, 'Ugh….! NOT NOW!' Taking out a venom serum with a syringe, Dick put it in his neck, "Agh!" It stung as ever, but it gave the boost Dick needed. He saw Bruce looking at him, not surprised, but disappointed.

Dick didn't care as he ran towards Barbara and Alfred to save them.

In their clash, the metallic flooring began to shake as this place was falling apart slowly. Momentarily, Cassandra quickly looked beyond the floor where the mask allowed her to see through it, and saw a submarine, erupting as if its gonna explode, "MY ARMY IS READY TO DIE FOR MY GOAL! BUT I'M NOT YET READY TO DIE!" Catching Cassandra off balance, the Knight pulled them into a knee, landing, but was tossed to the side.

Cassandra was going to chase, but she saw Jason on the side needing help and Selina also needing help. They were spread too thin while Bruce was on the ground holding his abdomen area he got shot in but managed to get behind cover. From another perspective, she's all alone in this fight, her family all but torn to shreds or divided enough to not help where help is needed. But she wasn't alone, not by a long shot. From her side view, she saw him, bandaged up, costume ripped to shreds, but she saw him lunging through the waterfall. She saw the man she loves coming to help them all.

Peter quickly took in the environment, but also noted how annoying his senses were becoming since entering the cave. He landed right by Cassandra, "I got hot head! You get Miss Wayne!"

Cassandra nodded so. She moved quickly, taking on the Knights of the sun with ease; using her gauntlets to block incoming shots, she didn't hesitate in her attacks.

Quick and efficient while using her tools to dismantle their weapons and bring them closer to her. Once she took them out, she went to check on Selina, "Hurt?" She asked.

She cringe as her legs weren't in the best shape to move, "Fuck…I did not miss getting shot!"

Meanwhile Dick roared and let loose punishment on the Knights of the sun. Not holding back and moving with such speed and ferocity that they stood no chance. He was breathing hard because of the venom being blasted in his system. He tried to calm himself but it was hard, try to keep focus but it was hard, and he's trying to remember the reason why he's using this at all, 'For my family, for my family, for my...Family right?'

He heard Alfred stifling a moan. It helps that seeing him in this condition wore off whatever negative thoughts were gonna occur as he helped him to his feet, "Your hurt."

"...Been through worse. Go…" Alfred coughs very hard when he spits blood, "Help Barbara."

Peter would hop in to help Jason. Both fighting back to back, before switching each other's target and taking them out. Peter by usual tame attacks, and Jason with usual killing attacks, "Course you're still killing!"

"HELL YEAH I AM!" Peter flipped around his opponent's, easily taking them out with kicks and strikes, and whenever Jason was gonna kill them, Peter was quick enough to bump into Jason so that his strikes weren't fatal, "STOP MESSING WITH MY MOOD!"

"You're not gonna kill around me!"

They then were face to face with one another as soon as they took down the Knights of the sun, "Not like it's gonna matter if you look at this place!"

"WE NEED TO GO!" Cassandra said as she navigated Bruce, Selina into the back of the Batmobile while Dick did the same with Alfred.

"WE CAN'T LEAVE THESE PE-"

"WHO THE FUCK CARES IF THEY DIE PARKER! LET'S GO ALREADY!"

Peter hated letting these people die, but then a huge explosion occurred under the water, enough where every single platform that was held up by the architecture work Bruce put into it, was being demolished.

Everything Bruce built was crumbling before Peter and Jason's eyes, and so was the platform they were on, "MOVE PARKER!"

"NOT YET!" While Jason ran, Peter webbed as many people as he could till his web shooter ran out, and tossing them around over his head he launched them through the waterfall with whatever strength he had left. Once done, he leapt right on top of the Batmobile alongside Jason with everyone inside of it. Cassandra ignited the engine, and went forward, flying out of the cave as another explosion pushed them out of it. Peter grabbed hold of Jason from the surprise push and kept him steady on top of the vehicle.

Cassandra drove a little further out. Making a quick turn to stop so she can check on everyone. Grabbing a nearby medical supply, she was quick to move out of the Batmobile. She took off the cowl of her helmet as soon as she went to work on helping deal with Bruce just as Selina was doing the same already. Selina would sterilize the wounds first before Cassandra moved into taking care of the bullet, "Gah…The…Knight knows…Too much about us…"

"Don't talk," Cassandra said.

"How do they…"

"Honey, not now ok?"

Bruce remains quiet as Cassandra uses a grasp forceps to take out the bullet gently so that they can begin bandaging up Bruce. Cassandra would do the same thing with Selina afterwards, keeping focus and making sure she does the same treatment without hurting Selina. Meanwhile, Peter, Dick, Jason, and Alfred look upon everything that had been destroyed, or was being destroyed. Peter took off whatever mask that held on to his face till he got here, just as Dick and Jason took off their own respective mask. They all were watching the Wayne's mansion being burnt to the ground, "..My god…Everything that they built…Gone," Alfred said as he held his shoulder that had been shot, "..Wasn't," Alfred coughed, "Suppose to be…" His coughing got worse as he started wheezing as if he couldn't breath.

The trio noticed this, "Alfred?" Peter asked, before Alfred suddenly couldn't stand anymore as he kept coughing and weezing. Peter and Jason move to catch him, "ALFRED! ALFRED!" He began gasping in his breath, clutching his heart tightly, "CASSANDRA WE NEED TO GET HIM TO THE HOSPITAL! HE'S SUFFERING FROM A HEART ATTACK!"

"OK!"

Peter would have wanted to lift him up on his own but his shoulder gave out, "Ugh! Damn it!"

"Backup Parker! Dick help out now!" All this time Dick stood there, like he was there but wasn't there in the head, "DICK! WAKE THE FUCK UP AND HELP OUT!"

When that didn't work, Peter with his shoulder busted up, still went to hit him square in the jaw. It wasn't strong enough to hurt him, instead it hurt Peter and made Dick fall on the ground, "Get your head out the clouds Dick and help! NOW!"

Dick did so, seeing Alfred in his condition he quickly moved as Jason and carried him to the back of the Batmobile. While everyone would fit in the back of the Batmobile since it could surprisingly hold a few people in there, Peter would go to sit on the passenger seat behind Cassandra as she hit the acceleration.

None of the Batfamily said a single word on their way to the hospital. But it was in fact another dark day for them as night befalls upon them.

Chapter 18: Fear

Midnight befallen Gotham city. The power to the city came back on sometime ago that allowed the city to recuperate and go about its busy lives like nothing had happened. Yet stuff had happened in Gotham, involving GCPD, firefighters, paramedics, and the common folks of Gotham to bring back some order to the city. In the Gotham county side where the Wayne manor once stood tall, it was being taken care of by firefighters and GCPD units going over the many bodies that were found in the front of the burnt mansion, but also those that were rounded up thanks to Peter's effort to saving as much as he could. The likes of certain media outlets were covering what went down with the Wayne mansion being all but in ruin.

And further away from the scene where they had a good look from everything from afar was the Redbird that held Stephanie and Tim. Stephanie was out of the car, taking the scene from afar as her solemn gaze was apparent. She couldn't turn away from seeing the place that was and still is her home being covered in smoke. There was barely anything left that made it look like the Wayne Mansion; everything from the many room's, to the many nooks and cranny that made it home, to the many memories she had with the people in it, all of it were now burnt to the ground. The only thing now Stephanie could do was look at what was destroyed as she tied her blond hair into a ponytail to keep it from bothering her sight, "Still nothing from the Batcave," behind her was Tim using his one hand to try get anything left of the Batcave through his phone, "The only thing I can get is Bruce, Selina, and surprisingly Jason's vehicle bu-"

"The Batcave is destroyed too," Stephanie said, finishing off her boyfriend's sentence, "Meaning whoever we will be going up against is…Strong and smart to be able to do that," she said with a slight hitch in her voice, "...To be able to know everything about us..."

Tim sighed as he kept pacing back and forth behind her, "Maybe Bane told them before Bruce killed him? From the surveillance cameras that were working at one point, the Arkham Knight army came and did this," Tim shook his head, "But Bane was never the type of guy to tell people about Bruce's identity, or any of us."

"That shit is scary though," Stephanie closed her eyes, her heart began pounding at just not only being back in Gotham, but being back to the madness of it all once more, "Knowing Bane and a few others knows our identity," she open her eyes, turning to Tim, "Who's not to say Bane did it Tim?"

"It's just not his MO Steph."

She had her arms crossed, not impressed by his answer, "MO's change Tim," Tim didn't have a good response to that, knowing she was in the right. Their own scars from what Joker did to them was proof enough, "Plus, it probably wasn't just Bane. Maybe Bruce's friend Thomas Elliot? Or is he still…You know."

Since they were now breaking down the list, Tim would gain access to not only the Asylum database and Blackgate's database of the intimates they've dealt with over the years, "Yeah..He's still very much crippled and has no way of talking due to his vocal chord being damage after his and Bruce last altercation with each other about a year ago. He's only alive because Cassandra saved him," Stephanie flinched at reminding another thing going back into her former home, and that was dealing with Bruce, "Riddler won't remember anything after Bruce tormented him to extreme form of hysteria that he can't even remember his own name. Crane succumb to heavy dose of toxin that Bruce also torture him with, he and Edward are again, only alive because of Cassandra. And if Crane isn't checked every minute or so, he could potentially kill himself. Can't say the same for Killer moth, who sadly killed himself instead of having to fight Bruce," Tim both frown and sighed as he lean on his car, finding how Arkham Knight knew of Bruce on that level began growing slimmer and slimmer, "Ra's died before all this, even Hugo Strange seem to not remember anything involving Arkham City."

"So he claims," Stephanie mentions.

"So he claims indeed, but we won't get anything unless we find him…" Tim put his phone away, allowing his one hand to rub his chin. He noticed Stephanie went back to looking at the mansion; the smoke was cleared but now it showed the pure destruction the Arkham Knight and their forces had done to it. Tim would remove himself from the car, walk to her, wrap his one arm around her, and let his chin sit on her shoulder right where her third degree scar was at, "We're here for a reason."

"I know…Doesn't make it easy to be here, to get back into…All this," she took a deep breath in and out, trying to conquer her fear, being unsuccessful, but she won't coward away just because, "Can only pray god keeps watching over us," she said with her hand twisting and turning the Christ cross jewelry around her neck, "We'll need a new place. I know the Batcave at the Asylum hasn't been usable in a long time."

"But there's still Belfry tower."

"Is it even still of use after what Peter did to that place?" She questions.

"Last we talked, which was for some time, he showed me that he cleaned up the place, replaced some hardware's and such," Tim shrug, "Whatever else needs repairing then we'll take care of it."

"Good thing you planned ahead then."

Tim frowned, "The idea was more from Bruce angle, but yeah...Good I planned ahead. The place definitely would need reactivation since Barbara shut the place down after the birds of prey were defunct. Can't count Peter having any use for it besides using the bell to tear off that suit he had on."

Stephanie looked at Tim, eyebrow raising, "We're not gonna do all that by ourselves right?"

"Of course not. But uh…Gotta reestablish power to our network first, and restore power in that place too," Stephanie silently groaned but nodded, "Ready to go?"

"Just…A Little longer," she leaned her head near Tim. Her gaze was left sadden at the fact of seeing her old home. One that held so many memories with everyone, but in between that sadness and fear, was anger. Angry to see this happen, and now that Stephanie and Tim are back in Gotham, she won't let anything like this happen again.

Not by her own watch, or Tim's of that matter.

---

Bruce never liked being in the hospital. It was never his go to the place where he can recover from the many injuries he sustained when he was Batman. No, that was his cave, and now that was gone. His home was gone. It was a hard pill to swallow as he stared at nothing but in front of him, which to him, it was nothing important. Because while he stares at nothing, his mind was going through all that occurred a few hours ago, 'All in one fell swoop, this foe, the Arkham Knight was able to not only find the cave, dismantle the counter measure, hurt the people I love, and took Talia Al Ghul for whatever plans they have for her,' the thought only serve to increase his glare, 'This wasn't a simple one and done plan, they had been planning this for years; gathering resources, intel, and picking the moment to hurt me...' His glare soften, 'Hurt us...I've prepared for the worst of things to come to my home, didn't matter if it was Trigon, Sinestro corps, even to a degree, the potential of anti monitor returning...Yet somehow, I couldn't have prepared for someone who was like minded as I am, or at least, who knew my greatest weakness was my city and the people I have to protect. Every plan I have, no matter the countermeasures, has a flaw to it, that it can always go south if the person knows how to get through it...Even now, I learn once more that I can't account for everything, and that involves adaptation. But what was there left to adapt to?' He questioned himself, as he felt his fist tighten underneath the sheet that was over him, 'My family is once more hurting and there's not a damn thing I can do about it! Knowing full well I want to kill...'

His fist softened, regret and shame came forth as he was so close to killing again today. He felt his hand rubbing his face, then pushed back his hair behind him as he felt the stress of today was getting to him. This isn't the first and won't be the last for Bruce to go through a period where he, his family, and city took a massive blow. But like always, time right now is to think about how to defeat these villains that impose a threat that he and his family face countless of times. The only true difference was how everything, and everyone, weren't the same as they once were before.

Older, but broken.

Experienced, but scattered.

Stronger, but not strong enough.

Together, but not truly together as they once were.

It felt like as Peter and Cassandra progressed, almost everyone wasn't going about the same pace as those two were. Even he felt stuck and hasn't much improved to be better, to be more helpful in some capacity. The problem he now deals with was how can he help, without needing to be out there in the streets to help?

And it leads to days like this where he's reminded of his first kill, with how much it changed him, and how till this day, it still feels like the only option into protecting everyone from the threats that loom over them.

---

A year ago

"AHHH!"

"HAHAHAHAH! KEEP WATCHING BAT! WE'RE JUST GETTING TO THE GOOD PART!"

The worst part was Bruce couldn't shy away from watching what Joker is forcing him to watch. He had chains that wrapped Bruce from hands to toe's, having him seated on the concrete floor in a kneeling position, another chain wrapping around his throat in angle where he can't move, and worst of all, Joker set up a twisted version of an ophthalmic speculums where it had metal wiring by his eyelids. If he blinks, it cuts up his eyes, blinding him depending on how fast he blinks. It meant that each time he blinked, it was slow, deliberate as possible, still cutting, but not damaging the eyelids besides the skin.

Bruce's own ice cold eyes were hot red, burning as tears rolled down from not blinking, but also seeing Joker not only toy with him, but hurting another one of his family members in front of him. Joker had Cassandra on her back, cuffed in a hospital bed where she can't move, as he dug a knife in her back, carving away, making her scream, causing her body to squirm, her hands trying to fight out of the cuff, her legs trying to do something, anything. But all she felt was pain, pure agonizing pain as blood dripped down from her torn costume, "AHHHHH! AH! AH! AHHHHHHH!"

"Jeez Bat's! I always thought she was the quiet one since she barely talks, BUT SHE'S A SCREAMER FOR SURE! MAYBE THAT'S WHY THE SPIDER GOT HER UNDER HIS WEBS! HAHAHAH!" Joker said, laughing, giggling, having the joy of his life as he not only wears a doctor outfit, wearing a mask and hat on, but kept carving away like he's performing a surgery on her. To which he was as his focus was on the skin, and not the bone where it'll damage her spine.

"GOD DAMN IT! JOKER! LEAVE HER ALONE!" Bruce begged, pleading as she tried to remove himself from the chains with all his strength, but each time, his hands kept bleeding and bleeding, and it couldn't be help his body was so exhausted from the ordeal he's been through due to Joker's ambitious attack on him and his family, "HURT ME! KILL ME! STOP IT!"

Joker stopped, frowning as he turned to Bruce, the man who's now broken just like his own Bat suit was torn, burnt to shreds, revealing part of his scarred body from head to toe, "Kill you? Why would I ever do that?!" Joker kept the knife implemented in Cassandra, letting her breath through the pain, but still moaned in the pain she was feeling from her back, "You give me joy, life even!" He said when walking up to Bruce, pulling down his mask revealing how pale, how whitish his skin was, taking off the hat that revealed his baldness too, "If I kill you now, then my life would have no meaning! I mean come on, Bats! I'M DYING FOR GOD SAKES! CANCER ACTUALLY GOT THE PRINCE OF CRIME!" Joker lashed out surprisingly in anger as he lifted Bruce briefly off his knees with his cape, "WHY WOULD I KILL YOU WHEN I'M ALREADY DEAD?! THE YEARS OF ME BEING WHO I AM HAD FINALLY CAUGHT UP TO ME! OR MAYBE IT WAS THE VENOM! BUT WHO THE HELL KNOWS! MY LIFE IS POINTLESS WITHOUT YOU BAT'S, AND YOU SHOULD ALREADY KNOW THIS!" Joker scoffed, looking disappointed at him for thinking such a term, to perceive himself such low and broken that it bother him as he let him go and turn away, "...To think…This is all I had to do to break you, and it doesn't even give me as much pleasure as I thought it would… You know it's funny how easy all this was because your favorite arachnid isn't around. That guy always made planning and scheming such a hard time! I swear, if he was around I couldn't do half of the stuff I'm doing to you. Then again, there was always a way to break you just as much as there was always a way for you to permanently stop me," he turns his neck to Bruce, "Isn't that right, Bruce?"

If his eyes could, Bruce would've let it widen at the sheer notion of now learning because Joker was able to not only cripple him, but hurt everyone he cares about while managing to kill people like Lucius Fox and his son, "You…Knew…?" If his eyes could, it would then squint as he scoffed at the irony from his greatest adversary, "Of course you did…"

Joker red lips let go of the frown, disappointment, and turn into a smile, "I mean don't get down Brucie boy! It was always fun and games when you were your true self and not the playboy you always put on a face for people that never really know you as much as I do," Joker added, gesturing to himself as well, "Plus come on! Fancy toy's? Fancy suit? Able to adopt kids left and right? Kind of written on the wall you know? And if Bane knew, then crikey on a stick! I should know too. And all I had to do was do what Bane did, sit back, and watch," Bruce didn't answer back, trying to still to pull him out as Joker turn his back and walk towards Cassandra, "Gotta say though, everyone of your family put up a hell of a fuss, especially your first Robin. Too bad I had to put him in a coma."

Hearing him talk about what he did to Dick only added more fuel into Bruce to get out.

"Then there was the hot headed Robin, coming back from the dead and all I had to do was drive words into his head then beat the life out of him again, even put a new scar on him too for funsie!" Joker would again, go back to carving away Cassandra back, almost forming the bat symbol on her back, "I mean, the psychological beating worked! Just as he watched Nightwing, your butler, the commissioner, and your wife took a hell of a beating! Though…The cat always did have nine lives to escape sadly. But anyhow! Hell! That hot head let those two other people die..Hm.. what was their name again..?" Joker, with the tap of his chin, let his tongue click when he remembered, "Ah! Lucius and the other was his son."

"AHHH! GAH….AHH!" Cassandra yelled out once more in pain, only serving to make Bruce groan, slowly bleeding himself dry to pull him out of the chains.

"Honestly! This Bat was just everywhere! She, the other Robin, his girl that was another Batgirl, and of course! Commissioner Gordon's daughter too! They all made sure to protect everyone as you tried to track me down. But! They all fell to my trap, and have you right here where I want you. I couldn't burn that Batgirl in hot, smelly, acid, or fully chop up and serve the third Robin on a platter, and I couldn't even maybe do more stuff with Barbara, nor even your butler! Besides cutting his hand off that is."

Bruce felt his hands coming out, but then his eyes had to blink once more. For a second, he was able to slow the muscle enough that it still cut, skinning the eyelids, but not taking away his vision, but it was very close this time, "AHHHH!" Bruce felt blood drip among his own eyelids, making it harder to see, but his vision was still visible, blurry, seeing stars, but enough where he could see what Joker wanted to present to him.

"But it doesn't matter! Now that I want to give you a final present to you," Joker stopped his cutting, lift the bed where it stood, and showcased Bruce that had Cassandra's back carved into a bat symbol, but not just a regular bat symbol, it was one that had a smile on its face, "A final present for not only you, but for her to remember me bye..."

It was then Joker pulled something out of his pocket, and pressed a button that let the chains and the machinery on Bruce go. With nothing holding him back, Bruce roared and ran at Joker, letting him smile and laugh, "THAT'S IT! COME TO ME! YOUR ONE AND ONLY FRIEND!" Bruce grabs Joker by his waist, hating his laughter, hating everything he's done, and plunges the both of them through the glass window and into the Gotham river.

They splash into the river together, and Joker felt Bruce punch him, choke, just as Joker did so back. To the bitter end, he laughed, he fought, but all the more, he didn't care. This was his last gift to the only friend that can understand him. Bruce hated it, hated seeing this person cause him so much pain, laughing and fought back, 'All this…Could've been prevented, if I went for the proper solution, if I didn't hold back, if I just listened to Jason, to Ra's and Talia, if I just let Peter did what he had to do years ago…' Bruce thought to himself, as he took the punches but went for a clean head butt, one, twice, and three times to concuss him, and then he continued putting pressure on his throat, 'If I just…Simply…'

Then as they plunge deeper into the sea. Bruce snapped his neck, not hearing it, but feeling his hands tore his neck with ease.

Bruce was in shock, startled by his actions as he let go of the now dead Joker. His body plunged deeper into the Gotham river, still smiling, but no longer laughing. Bruce found himself looking at his hands, looking at what he did, looking at the bloody hands that felt numb to him.

He killed him, Bruce had finally crossed the line. And while he could've let himself wither away in Gotham river, so that way this can be his own fate, someone had other ideas instead. A web grabbed him from behind, pulled him back to the surface and onto the bay area of Gotham. Bruce can briefly recognize the person who saved him, telling him not to die, that he couldn't die. All he could remember is that he resembles Peter. But he didn't look like him as he wore a more black, menacing costume. Yet, Bruce couldn't focus on that, as his mind put him into unconsciousness, before he spat out water from his lungs.

Alive, but now having to live with what he had done. Somehow, a much deeper thought said otherwise.

That he finally had done what he always wanted to do.

---

Present

Bruce's own mind was taken away from that day when the news on the tv got his attention about the Wayne mansion. Or more precisely, someone who's doing the reporting; a familiar raven-haired woman that always likes to look presentable in a business suit, but respectable person from the daily planet, "So far there aren't any reports of casualties during what seems like an unfortunate play of events. Officers and firefighters have deducted that this was no accident due to the now dub, Knight's of the sun are now captured to be put in custody. Officers also had found dead bodies lying around the entirety of the Wayne mansion, bodies belonging to the same group led by the recently known terrorist, the Arkham Knight. It's also been reported that Mr. Wayne, his wife, and their butler Alfred Pennyworth are in hospital care at the moment. Hopefully, we'll have updated news on their health. Back to you Jimmy."

Bruce frowned, 'With Lois here, it wouldn't be surprising if-' the door opens up to find not the doctor's, but a man that Bruce had always called a boy scout since they're first one to one meeting. He wore an amber and peach button up suit while wearing a brown top hat on his head, he pushed up his circular glasses as his padded shoes made all the noise in the world, just like him closing the door behind him, careful not to break it like everything he can touch. Bruce couldn't help but both eyeroll and groan at his small touches of being clumsy while making his own posture as bad as possible. Just seeing him like that always makes it look ridiculous, knowing it's just for show, but an added touch to hide who he really is. He cleared his throat, "I uh…Just came back from-"

"Space, yeah, I know Clark," Bruce found himself looking away from Clark, who himself couldn't help but had a sad expression on his face as soon as their interactions began, "You know you're not supposed to be here."

"Me? Yeah I can," he walked closer to Bruce's bed head as he put the bag around his waist on a nearby desk, "But the other guy? He can also be here too."

"You don't know what they have planned, or how many more people are held hostage."

"I could figure out," Clark then took a seat, "A lot is happening and I ca-"

"Clark…" Bruce's voice tried to persuade his friend to not push the subject, to leave him, and his city be, because he's undeserving of his help to what he did to him.

Clark stopped what he was gonna say, and found himself sighing, "What happen between us doesn't change our friendshi-"

"I almost killed you," Bruce turned to Clark, now having the look of shamefulness feeling his eyelids, "Threaten your wife, your own son, and the rest of the leagues so they wouldn't stop me from doing what I had to do… Hell Clark, I'm the one responsible for weakening you! The one responsible to show the world that I, Batman, can take you all down if I wanted to," he said with no malicious or ego in his tone, but clear facts that was presented a year ago, "You shouldn't be around me Clark, you shouldn't be in Gotham city knowing you're needed elsewhere," Bruce said, turning back away from him.

Clark hated seeing Bruce like this, 'He still hasn't forgiven himself as I forgave him,' the boy scout thought sadly to himself, 'And the worst part is after being close to being Superman for 27 years, I still can't fix the things I want. I might be strong, fast, smart, but this is a problem that Superman can't fix,' Clark let out a sigh, but posture himself to not keep himself down by what's in front of them, 'But that doesn't mean Clark Kent can't try to help.'

With his confidence on display, Clark would still take a crack at talking to Bruce, "...Not at the moment, the world doesn't need Superman right now. But you seem to need a friend, to which, I'm here because I'm worried about you. Superman and Batman aren't who they used to be, but that doesn't mean Clark and Bruce have to change."

"...Have they found a cure yet?"

"No, not sure if they'll ever find a cure for my disease Bruce," Clark then oddly chuckle, "It's funny, I should be angry that you did this to me, that there will be a time that I'll die and my own 6 year old son will never see his dad again, or the wife I loved for so many years, will spent even more years crying because I'm not by her side. But.. I'm not angry, maybe sad, but no…I'm kind of grateful even. At first I was angry like the rest of the leagues at what you did to us, to me. I know it was a bold move that Peter and I decided to have you able to walk free and not face justice for the crimes you committed. I even made sure to put my foot down and reassure everyone you'll never be Batman just as you promise, and that you'll seek whatever therapy or counseling that will make you stronger than before," Clark paused, he then removed his top hat of him, letting a bit of black hair curled on his forehead that he had to smoothed it out, "I'm…Honestly rambling right now because its been…A while since we talk. I guess I want to say is…You gave me something that makes me more human, a way to know that I don't have forever on this earth, and I have to keep doing what I can by making sure…This world, and other worlds, are to be protected and preserve to years to come when I'm not around. That's why I forgave, that's why I not only convinced Peter to help in my argument to keep you away from jail, and to keep your identity stay a secret, but I also made sure everyone in the Justice League saw reason for what became of you. Your actions can't ever be forgiven, yet by having you not be Batman, letting someone else replace your footsteps, it can hopefully allow you to move on, to grow, and learn to forgive the mistakes you made. And most importantly, it will allow Cassandra to find their way in the Justice League whenever she feels she's ready."

Bruce was quiet, not sure what to say to his friend, his best friend he hurt, his best friend he made sick, and worst of all, making his time on earth shorter than it was supposed to be. Bruce wasn't sure what he could say, or what he wanted to say. That he was happy for him? That he's sorry? He doesn't know which words are right for these situations, and he should know. He should know.

But what makes it so much harder is that Bruce is reminded today of the damage he's caused, the people he's hurt, and now karma is now catching up to him, "I…Had a look at Alfred before coming in," Clark mentioned, "He…Doesn't look to be in a great shape. His brain is still very much active, but due to his cardiac arrest he's in a deep state where he can't wake up anytime soon."

"...Is he..?" Bruce didn't have the power to ask what he wanted to ask. He couldn't accept that fate to a person that meant so much for him.

Clark put his hands on Bruce's shoulder, trying to in some form comfort him, "He's not dead, but the chances of him coming out of this aren't looking too good. Whatever damage he put himself through before and after the attack on the mansion did a lot on his brain and body."

Bruce felt them, felt the liquidness coming from his eyes. He tightened his hands to hold it back, to hold them back because he can't cry, he shouldn't cry, and he won't cry, "...Damn it."

Clark lifted his head, squinting then sighing, "John needs help on mars. I really do want to stay and...Help however way I can," Clark put on his hat again, "But I know this isn't my city to save even if I wanted to, and I have to respect that. But know this Bruce, if you ever need help I-"

"You're a call away," Bruce turned to Clark, seeing a small smile become present on his lip, "I know. But this is our city, our problem as you said. It would be better if your publicity doesn't get affected by us."

"I'm not too sure, since people love Peter and all that he's done," Clark talking about Peter made him smile, "He doesn't know how much he's done for not only Gotham, but other places, planet's even. With him around and the kind of press he gets every now and again, not too sure if I'll get affected," Bruce couldn't help but let out a tiny chuckle, something Clark was glad he at least did before he had to leave, "Gotham is in good hands with him and Cassandra around, keep having faith in them. And by the way, I made sure to seal up your cave so that it wouldn't damage the environment, or have people knowing who you are. Give everyone my blessons," Clark opened the door and left Bruce alone to his own thoughts once more.

But he wouldn't be for long since Selina came in with crutches, along with a Barbara wheeling herself in as she threw a pair of clothes at Bruce while being on the phone with someone, "Yeah no I'm fine… Fine as I can be. Thanks for checking on us Ted. I'll make sure to call you back soon..OK…Bye," call ended as Barbara put her focus on Bruce, "Time to strategize, we're going on top of the roof where the others are at."

"Was that Clark that we just saw?" Selina asked, briefly looking out to see she can catch him

"Yes," Bruce shortly said when putting on some clothes that replaced his hospital gown.

"Guy looks like he's packing more guns on him."

"Selina not now."

"Whattt?! I'm just pointing out what Lois has. I mean I got this gremlin over here anyhow and I'm happy for it. Who knows how Lois can handle his super d-"

Barbara raised her hands to her lips and shut Selina's mouth up.

---

Cassandra sat on the edge of the roof where Peter slept on her legs. She was out of her Bat costume, it being folded into a bag she got, along with clothing she gave not only to herself, but the rest of her family. It was quite an awkward thing when she, a beaten up Peter, Dick, and Jason walked into a drift store to buy clothing.

Say the least, the store owner was taken aback at Gotham's vigilante's coming in to buy clothing.

She watches over the street of Gotham, while her hand gently passes over Peter's long brunette hair. It still needed cutting with how fluffy and big it was, but it was a step up from the fact that he didn't have his beard anymore. At some point, she needs to take care of it just so she can get back at him for cutting her hair. Not that she minds, it no longer gets in a way or gets so ruffled up when she puts on her cowl. Yet Peter has to suffer whenever he puts on and takes off his mask. These little things allowed her to take her mind off everything that happened and just focus on that he's here with her.

Sleeping, fidgeting because he's not relaxed, but by holding him near her, gently letting her hand brush his hair, or taking a hold of his hands, that sort of comfort keeps him from waking up, keeps his spasm to a minimum, and quells the nerves that are busy healing him. Because she knows if she wasn't around right now, Peter wouldn't dare to sleep, wouldn't dare to rest till he finds the Arkham Knight and makes them pay for what they did.

And of course, find Cletus Kasady so he can save Mary Jane Watson and Felicia Hardy.

Cassandra found herself frowning knowing those two people that Peter has close ties with are now in the palm of a maniac's hands, 'If I hadn't made sure to keep him…Here…Then he would've…Push too much….Hurt himself…Just to save them…' As much as she loves his courageous side, the kind that was brave to put himself through hell, Cassandra also hates that capacity brings about a toxic behavior of not taking care of one self in the process. She doesn't like to admit it, but she too has that problem, one of the many problems she and Peter have in common with one another. And it's how those problems, those flaws, help them to connect one another, ground each other, but also make sure neither of them falls back on those toxic behaviors and learn to be better, stronger than that.

Something that the pair is taking better control in doing now compared to before.

She can't say the same for the other two people near her. Jason sat near her, drinking a bottle of alcohol while still wearing his red hood outfit underneath a jacket, but had his helmet off. And Dick stood with arms crossed, as he too still wore his Nightwing outfit, but too had a jacket to cover him up. Dick saw how Jason casually drank like it was nothing, the smell was burning his nostrils indicating it was vodka he was drinking.

'How in the world Jason could operate how he was while being drunk is beyond me,' Dick noted to himself. He couldn't help but take in that smell, the strong scent coming from the bottle, and something that can calm his nerves. The added juice he took from venom seemed to still rub him the wrong way. He felt himself staring into nothingness, thinking of nothing, but feeling angry and wanting to take out on those who were causing it.

The people that want to burn this city, that want to hurt the good people of the city, and the people that are bringing nothing but pain to his family. Dick tapped Jason by the arm, making him spill a little liquid to his throat, "Pass me some," he asked without any manners.

Jason glared at him, "Hell no. Not your style birdy."

"You know I could just swipe it from you."

"Heh, like to see you try."

The two stared at each other, ready to throw down if necessary just for a pint of alcohol. They were interrupted with a batarang being thrown between their faces that made them jerk their head away from getting hit, but the batarang nailed the alcohol bottle, breaking it in one fell swoop. Cassandra would catch it without looking as she put it back into her utility belt. She might not be wearing her upper bat suit, but she kept on the lower part just in case, "No fight," she simply said, going back to keeping Peter in a comfortable state of rest.

"You know what, fuck you for that!" The hothead with gun's said, scoffing from losing a good drink. Dick didn't gave no word of negativity on his end, and went back to staring at the city while thinking of nothing, "So, on a scale of 1 to 10, how fuck are we?" Jason threw out. He looked at both Cassandra and Dick who neither gave him the time of day to answer, "In my opinion, I say a solid 10. They got Talia and they can do whatever the hell they want with her, Alfred is probably dying, and oh! Peter's exes are now a damsel in distress once more!"

"Jason."

"Yeah?"

"Quiet."

"I hate it, little bat. Wake up Peter so I can bother him."

"No."

"Party pooper."

Between the four heroes, it went quite rather fast with the only sound coming from Jason playing with guns, or sharpening the two swords he has on him. It was then behind them, Dick and Jason quickly react by pulling out their weapons, to only find Bruce helping Selina walk through the elevator along with Barbara wheeling herself to them, "I know how to use a crutch Bruce! Stop!"

"Hm."

"How is Alfred?" Dick asked, putting away his weapon.

"Not good...They aren't sure when, or even if he'll wake up.." Bruce spoke, his words coming out more soft and low pitch as he couldn't accept the circumstance of what happened to Alfred.

Each of the Bat family had various looks; Dick clenched his jaw, tightened his fist in his arms as he hated what happened to Alfred. Jason looked away, sucking his teeth as he felt the old butler shouldn't have been put in a position where he fought some of the Knights of the sun. Cassandra felt a gasp left her lip, her basil eyes slightly widened, and then her eyebrow shrewd when processing the information. It didn't sit well to find out Alfred is close to death doors and there's nothing she can do about it. Her head bowed low, letting her chin rest on her boyfriend's head, "...We have to strike back."

"And how the fuck are we suppose to do that?!" Jason responded to Cassandra, "They've got an army, just as much weapons and security as the Batcave! I'm not saying its impossible here, but how in the fuck are we gonna hit them hard when we're not equip to punch back hard?!"

"As abrasive his comment is," Barbara said, as she adjusted her now cracked glasses due to the aftermath of the invasion, "Jason has a point."

"Aw that warms my cold heart Babs!" Jason sarcastically said while touching where his cold heart is at.

Barbara eyerolled, "We lost the cave, the resources needing to find a way to push against the Arkham Knight, we're mostly on our wits end here."

"We're not completely at loss here," Dick said, bringing his own opinion on that matter, "We're all here, every single one of us. We can do something once we recover and find a way to stop Arkham Knight and Carnage along with their separate armies."

"Heh, now that's the more reasonable Dick I know. I wonder where he's been?" Dick response was to stare down Jason with a glare, while Jason simply had a small smirk not backing down from the older Robin, "Even though technically, we're down like 6 members, two dead a year ago, two not even in Gotham, and one in a coma."

Bruce cleared his throat, getting the attention of almost everyone. He locked onto Dick as just as he did, "How long Dick?" Dick didn't answer, only shy away from Bruce's heated gaze. Bruce let go of his wife letting her stand on her own as Bruce strode to Dick slowly. He grabbed his chin to make him face him, "How long were you taking venom Dick? A year? Several months?" Dick didn't answer Bruce while it left Cassandra, and Selina in shock to hear Bruce's accusations. And the worst part was Dick wasn't opposing his argument as Bruce brought him closer, "ANSWER US RICHARD GRAYSON! YOU KNOW THE EFFECTS OF VENOM! YOU SEEING THE EFFECTS IT HAD ON BANE BEFORE I KILLED HIM! WHY?! WHY DI-"

"BECAUSE I WANTED TO FEEL LIKE MYSELF AGAIN!" Bruce recoiled back from Dick's own shout, "IS THAT WHAT YOU WANT TO HEAR?" Dick noticed some of the shock expression from finding out he was on Venom, mostly Selina and Cassandra while Barbara was disappointed just as Bruce was, "IS THAT WHAT YOU ALL WANT TO HEAR? THAT I SIMPLY WANTED TO BE MY GREATEST SELF SO I CAN BE OF USE TO ALL OF YOU?! SO THAT I CAN BE THE PERFECT HUSBAND FOR KORIAND'R?! I JUST WANTED TO BE ME AGAIN AND NOT SOME COUCH POTATO THAT THE JOKER TOOK PLEASURE INTO MAKING A REALITY!" Dick redirected his attention to his father figure, "...You've all people should know what being powerless feels like, and needing a source to feel powerful in saving lives."

At first, no one had an answer to that, an answer to Dick selfish need to be what he feels is his greatest asset, and that's being Nightwing. But how could anyone fault him? He did so much good when he found an identity that meshes with who he wanted to be, and he strived to take the lessons he learned from his parents, from Bruce, from everyone, and apply to that specific identity. And to not be able to do it, was something Dick couldn't stand. Being Nightwing, is who he is, is who Richard Grayson is, and without it, who is Richard Grayson in the end?

Jason would find himself laughing, "Looks like that cat's out of the bag!" Cassandra had her own glare at Jason that he noticed, "What? It's funny that everyone here didn't want to believe the flying Grayson, leader of Titans, one of the Justice League members, is now a drug addict."

"...SHUT UP! YOU ASSHOLE!" Cassandra yelled with anger and disdain of Jason's overall attitude that got everyone's attention, "I DON'T KNOW WHY PETER….WHY EVERYONE FEELS SORRY FOR YOU WHEN YOU'RE….AN ASS HOLE!"

"AND I WONDER TOO!" Jason shouted back, not backing down from Cassandra, "I DIDN'T ASK FOR PITY! NOR DID I ASK FOR EVERYONE TRYING TO BRING BACK THE PERSON I WAS BEFORE. BEFORE I WAS BEATEN AND EXPLODED TO DEATH!"

"EVERYONE! CHILL! THIS IS NOT THE TIME FOR ARGUING AGAINST EACH OTHER!" Selina too shouted.

"Seems like the perfect time," Barbara muttered, "If we're all being honest, this is why we all separated right? Because of how much the Joker scared us? Revealing more of our unspoken flaws, and reaping new one's? to fully showcase the trauma that plague us and how dysfunctional of a what? A family we are? How can we protect Gotham when this happens? When we all still have problems to deal with one another? I mean, I know none of us has forgiven what Bruce did, have we?"

"I'm still trying to…Change Barbara," Bruce tried to reassure, but the pause and the lack of confidence in his wording didn't help.

"I know, but what you did? How you also hurt us too? I can't," just like Dick, she shied away from Bruce's gaze, "and am not sure I'll ever forgive that."

"Barbara, stop that. The past is-"

"Selina please," Barbara interjected, "I know you love him, but let me have this moment to share what I still feel and not sure I can ever get over. Because with everything that's happening now, I just need…To get this off my chest…This is the only time I can ever admit that I'm scared that Bruce will wage war on everyone he deems a threat again if the circumstances arise."

"I won't Barbara!" Bruce said with a plea as he turned to the red-haired woman, "All I ever have done is try to stay away from that man I became because of the Joker! I'm trying! I'm trying my best to entrust this to everyone here!"

"But you have no faith," Bruce turned to Cassandra. She was frowning as she searched her mind to say what she wanted to say, "...Just like I fear…The worst for me," she gestures to herself, "...You fear that it won't be enough with…Just Us...Even stop therapy..."

"I-" Bruce felt his mouth open then close. Just like with Clark, the words he wanted to say, wanting everyone to believe that it won't be the case, didn't come out from his lips. Because if he were being honest, it's not that he didn't trust his family to protect Gotham. His hands passed over jawline, "...I trust in…All of you, regardless of what's going on with everything.. But I won't lie, if I could be what I want to be, then I'll feel more comfortable knowing that I'm of use than watching every single one of you out there fighting without me.."

Selina, moving to Bruce with her crutch. She let her free hand grab his hand, "...Trust in them Bruce. Let go of that…Fear you have."

Bruce couldn't look into the eyes of his wife when she ask him to do something impossible. It was odd, he used to inspire fear, yet now fear of himself controls him and he doesn't know how to let that go, "...I don't know how too Selina…"

It was then each of their phone blares. In the process, Peter woke up straight from Cassandra. It would've been funny for the fact that all the screaming didn't wake him up, but their phones did, yet it wasn't the time for that, "Huh?! Ugh!" He felt his body ache from the simple movement that he groaned. He may have a healing factor of sorts, but compared to other super heroes it wasn't the type of healing factor that can heal in one two three. Whatever bruises and cuts that either weren't bandaged or covered up by the clothing Cassandra got him were healing say the least. He was also wrapped around Cassandra, she kept him steady as she checked her phone while Peter looked around curiously, noticing the angst and sorrow roaming between the group, "W...What did I miss?"

"Dick is on drugs and we were having a family bonding session without you," Jason commented without holding anything back.

Peter's eyes widened at Dick, who didn't bother looking at him. A Lot of things began running through his head, '...Should've known. Why didn't I see it? Why didn't I dig? Why couldn't I figure this out before...' Peter shook his head, 'No, I know the signs were there, but I wanted to believe that it wasn't anything of that nature. I just wanted the person I look up to back, healthy, and for us to help people again. Something I was happy for. I mean, I idolized him for how he made his own identity, became his own man instead of a sidekick. He was so far apart from Bruce, Jason, and Barbara, and it helped that we had so much in common that we bounced back and forth so easily and effortlessly. He was...And even is...An older brother I wish I had growing up,' and that's why Peter couldn't see, or actually, he couldn't believe Dick would be the person to succumb to drugs to have his body be what it used to be. It might've been right there in front of him the whole time, but Peter didn't want to dig, prod, for Dick sake. He simply wanted his older brother back, to which he got.

But now with everything out in the open, all Peter can do was feel shame at seeing even the once optimistic figure that Dick was, is now a former shell of what he used to be. But Peter didn't have time to think about this right now as he looked at the phone Cassandra held near him. His eyes squinted at the curious notification everyone was getting, "..Someone's entered in the Belfry."

"It was supposed to be shut down," Barbara mentioned, "Any access was cut off entirely to anyone who wanted to enter. Only few people, other than all of us here, can have access to that place, meaning-"

"Tim and Stephanie.." was all Bruce said for everyone to get their attention.

"Wait..Wait, wait, everything is happening left and right," Peter said, groaning as he shuffled in Cassandra's arm who kept him there and didn't let him go. He wanted to get out, but she wasn't gonna let go till they needed to leave. And so, Peter let her be and kept himself comfortable in her arms, "Alfred? What's going on with him?"

"He's in a coma," Selina was the one to speak on this part, "No one knows when he'll wake up."

Not everyone can see due to his position he was in besides Cassandra. Peter was frowning along with sighing of what happened to Alfred, that he couldn't have been there to prevent him from getting hurt. He shouldn't have been in the crossfire, but like always, Alfred was willing to do what's necessary to protect everyone, "And there's nothing we can do...Right?"

"You the science wiz Parker. Maybe think-"

"Stop it, now!" Cassandra slightly shouted, still irritated by Jason's sly remarks.

"Or what?"

"Both of you…!" Again, Peter groans. Even raising his voice hurts just a little, "Please. Let's not bicker right now. We have to head over to Belfry tower," this time Peter let himself go out of Cassandra arms, taking a stand on his own two feet that Cassandra couldn't help but support him since he's still wobbly, "...Need to rebuild, find a way to stop the Arkham Knight with whatever they have plans for Talia, and as well addressing Carnage….Can't let him kill these two people because their close to me."

"...Sentimental is the same Peter," Selina acknowledged the fact one of those hostages was an apprentice at one point of her life, "Can't let him kill Felicia."

"Or MJ," Cassandra added. Even before having their talk that helped shape up their relationship with each other, Cassandra wasn't gonna let anything happen to the red hair that is important to Peter.

"Then we go. Now," Dick said, "Also need to avoid the streets, seems reporters are here for what happened to Mister Wayne's mansion," Dick noted when looking down the streets to see a crowd of reporters and news anchors doing their job to report news in the city, one involving Bruce Wayne of all people

All were in agreement now, even if tensions are high between everyone.

---

Tim and Stephanie were in the Belfry tower located in North Gotham. It was once an old Wayne tower that Bruce's forefathers had built in the late 19 centuries using newer materials in its construction while also being a landmark, a symbol that welcomes anyone to Gotham City. What made its building unique was the 12 gargoyles it displayed from lower to top, and being one of the few buildings in North Gotham to match Miagani island's own skyscrapers. The gargoyles were represented as guardians that looked over each passageway into the city. A few would look over the bridges and tunnels, and others would look over subway stations running nearby. The top tower where Tim and Stephanie was at was once a place where every citizen in Gotham city can come and see no matter the day. But as time went on, technology grew, and how North Gotham changed over the years, so was the building itself. There were those that tarnished the place, tried burning it down, especially when Bruce's parents were gunned down in crime alley's.

Just like everywhere else at that time, the once beacon of the city was no longer a beacon, and eventually it became abandoned.

Tim wanted to make use of the place more, after all it was his idea to make this place as important as the Batcave. He was able to move software, equipment, beds, couches to make the place feel at home for the Bat family, or any other heroes that wanted to use the place. But at some point, Tim found himself too busy back in those days when it seemed a bit more simpler, 'Can't believe that I'm now realizing the term that you never knew how much you had it good till you miss it,' Tim winced when noticing the circuit with the power generator he sparked but nothing positive occurred making him growl in annoyance, 'Crap basket, it's been a while since this place was operational that I never made time to give it the proper upgraded it needed.'

"Anything down there?! Because it's still dark as hell up here Timmy!" Stephanie loudly said, with her voice echoing from the upper level where she was focused not only cleaning up the place, but making sure everything would be ready to be of use again. While not messy, both Tim and Stephanie took note that Peter didn't clean up as much as he thought he did. Glass was still littered around, whatever was broken was pushed aside but not taken care of, dust and debris was a thing, but most importantly, it felt more like an abandoned warehouse than a headquarters for a team.

"Nope! Either Barb's did a good job in making sure this place stayed offline, or Peter really went on a tyranny rampage when getting that suit off!" Tim responded back as he kept his eyes and hand focused on rewiring the power generator for it to properly turn on.

"Likely the latter! A lot of equipment was smashed to pieces from what I can tell! Even the bell is cracked in half, but somehow still has life to stay hanging!"

"Certainly good news for me!" With the conversation dying down as both were focus on their specific duties, Tim began talking to himself once more about the place he wanted to properly build for not only himself, but for others too, 'With college, being Red Robin, and splitting those times with Stephanie and the rest of the group, it was hard to also find time to build this place to what I wanted to be. Place for redemption. No matter what, this place was supposed to be an area where no one would be pushed aside, everyone works together for the common goal of keeping Gotham safe. I only had that spark of an idea after everyone and I went toe to toe with the Court of Owls, a group similar but not so similar to the Knight's of the sun oddly enough. They spent years hiding in Gotham, having a play on the many architecture and politics that they manipulated for their own ambitions to control Gotham by the throat. They're shadow was put on a spotlight 3 years ago due to the impact Bruce had on Gotham, inspiring heroes' like himself to take back the city for good, not evil.'

Tim would stop his wiring, checking to see if everything was in the right spot, tied together, and circuit can trickle to everywhere in the tower to bring it alive, 'Sadly, before Barbara shut down the place after she disbanded the Birds Of Prey, not many other people used it. Cassandra didn't see the point using it at the time, nor Dick or Jason since they weren't always around. Peter and Bruce mostly moved things around, with Peter sometimes using it when he needs to have space from everyone. It really was Barbara, Stephanie, and I that used what we have here to build something. And Seeing how the Court Of Owls also use this place for their base of operation once upon time, Bruce and I thought it would be a good idea to bring the Belfry tower back online for it to be the hope it provided for Gotham long time ago,' taking the flashlight from his mouth where he uses it to properly see the circuit box, his frown became prominent without it blocking what's on display, 'But look how that turned out. Everyone got hurt, Bruce went on a mass rampage, and I ran away because I was scared...' Seeing everything was in order, he closed the box as he got ready to pull down the handle, '..I don't wanna be scared of him, this city, and its problem... I wanna confront it, confront it like how I used to. Just like how I lost a lot of good people in this city, I kept going to keep doing good...And I wanna do it again.'

"Gonna try turning on the power again Steph!"

"Got it!" her voice echoed from the floor above him.

Tim rolled down the power generator, sparks lighted that made him cover his face and as the power went on, it soon turned off, "Damn it!"

"Sure you don't need help down there?!"

"Do you know how to fizzle with a circuit brake?!"

"Yes...! And, No!"

He sighed and chuckled at the same time, "It's the thought that counts! So thanks honey!"

"No problem babe! Ugh! Really Peter!" Tim can hear Stephanie disgusted sass, and it likely simply had to do with Peter being clumsy and not bothering to really clean the place as he should've, "I hate how strong that guy is babe!"

Tim would open up the circuit box, rerouting the wire chords once more and hoping to god it can work this time, "Well, it came in handy plenty of times honey!"

"I know he was having a tantrum but come on!"

"Do you need help up there?!"

"Do you know how to glue back a floor together?!"

"...Yes and no, I just need to work out a super glue th-"

"Babe...Love you! But I got this!"

"OK honey!" Tim was again alone with his thoughts, his one hand, and a flashlight he held in his mouth as he kept tinkering and tinkering to make the power come back on, 'Come on man...Work with me! I know how old you are, but come on...Please,' Tim stopped for a moment as he stared at the color wires in his hand that he wrap to one another, '...Please, we need this..I need this,' Tim would get back to what he needs to do, and he closes the box as he ready for it to turn on, "I'm doing it again Steph!"

"Fingers cross babe!"

"Fingers crossed indeed," Tim muttered to himself, he grabbed onto the red handle, and pressed it down. It didn't spark, Tim saw the place light up, and he had an astonishing grin on his face, "YES!"

Tim would run back up to the upper levels, passing by a few of Bruce's old Bat vehicle's he had that were sitting near a railroad. Belfry had access to an abandoned underground subway station that still needed to power on if it was gonna be used to navigate the city easier. Reaching the higher level, Tim saw the computers up and running where Stephanie was at. The station that was meant for both engineering and scientific lit up like it was a Christmas tree on the right hand side of the room, and the left hand side held a station for training and sparring; it had its heavy bags, but no AI generator field for in depth training.

Yet it did have old manikins if anything.

Tim saw Stephanie booting up the computer, spawning, analyzing the city for any crime activity, and even tracking their Bat family. It had its shares of fragmented tears due to Peter's own fault, but it was still functional, "Ok, we're a go then," Tim said.

Stephanie took note of some of the crimes that were being reported, not a whole lot, but enough not to go unnoticed. To their luck, the GCPD were handling those situations while she noticed the Bat family was coming their way through the abandoned subway, "Here they come, gonna make sure each route is open for them to come here."

"One at a time, software here is not up to date at the moment and we can't have it crashing," Stephanie scoffed and flipped her hair when looking at her boyfriend, who too looked back at her with a perplexed look on his face, "What?"

"I know how to work a computer, Tim, including the Bat computer," she said with a sassy tone.

"I do remember someone who almost caused the Batcave to self-destruct when she started goofing around."

"UGH! IT WAS ONE TIME!"

He eyerolled and sighed, "Thank god for Pete."

"Ignoring you now!"

Tim chuckled as Stephanie made sure to open up the specific routes for the rest of the Bat family to come to the belfry tower. Eventually, it didn't take them long to enter, letting an elevator bring them up to the observation deck, and hearing the engine, sparks from the railroad, coming through as they parked their vehicle.

Stephanie, hearing them come, would run to the balcony. While she was happy to see them, she didn't like to see each and everyone of them in the beaten, depressed state they were in. She noticed Peter first; his bruises made her look at him first as he was bandaged up and having clothes that were likely hiding more injuries that she can somewhat see as he took off his jacket. The suit he was wearing was held together by its metallic fragments, with the armor parts being shown, as well as certain places being torn enough to leave cuts and bruises around his body.

Then there was her best friend, Cassandra, she smiled tightly, waved at her, but Stephanie could see she was hiding more. Her hair was all over the place, the clothes she wore didn't really fit her making her look impractical then anything. While she was the least bruised out of all, Stephanie didn't like the fact that she was easily hiding more of what she was feeling than anything right out of the gate. But, she did like she smiled at her, so there was hope in between that smile and dark clouds that shroud her expression.

Bruce was more focused on wheeling Barbara, both had a miniature grim look. It didn't help that Bruce walked slowly, like every movement hurt just a little. And Stephanie didn't like how Selina was walking with the cast to support her legging as one of her legs was equipped with a cast on.

Funny enough, Stephanie wasn't expecting to hear two people arguing in the car, "GET THE FUCK OUT DICK!"

"LEAVE ME BE!"

Stephanie didn't think she would see Jason again, even in this city. She also found herself flabbergasted by how Dick is still able to be Nightwing now more than ever. She, like the many others of the Bat family saw, and was aware of what happened to him due to Joker's action last year, so for him to be moving like this? It was a sight to behold, and to herself, god having a way to work his magical hands. Stephanie then saw Peter eyerolled and help bring Dick out of the car by picking him up with one hand and putting him behind his shoulder "LET GO OF ME!"

"HA! Taking a picture of this," Jason didn't just take a picture, he recorded Dick trying to wiggle out of Peter's arms, but he was unsuccessful with how strong he was even in his tired state.

Peter didn't have the strength to make them stop as is. He would let Dick go, letting him stand on his two feet as the bat family used a nearby elevator to bring them up to the main hub of the building. It's here where Stephanie hugs everyone she can, "You don't know how much I miss you guys!"

"Ease the fuck off blondie!" Jason spoke, not liking hugs from Stephanie of all people, but he still accepted like the rest just without hugging her back.

Stephanie glared at Jason, and stuck her tongue out. Cassandra couldn't help but giggle when feeling Stephanie's presence by her side again. It was really good to see her best friend back in the city. But suddenly, Cassandra frowns at seeing the third degree scarring she had on the left side of her face. The purple hoodie and pants she had on cover the rest of her body, but she still found herself reminding of the damage she went through last year.

In a sense, as much as she was glad to see her, it still hurts to face her. If it wasn't for Peter holding her hand once more, she would've avoided meeting her eyes. Peter's touch reminded her that the past happened, only the present matter, "It's good seeing you again Steph. Have you put on muscle?" Peter asked while inspecting her body, even tapping her arms as he felt the muscular parts not just shown, but we're there, "Jeez! They can cut through stones!"

Stephanie giggled, "Oh hell yeah!" She rolled up her sleeves and flexed her muscles that were quite similar to Cassandra's own, with it slightly being a bit bigger, "Still trying to look as good as your girl over here!"

"Steph! Honey! You already look good as is!" Selina commented.

"Coming from you always means a lot, Cat!" Stephanie said, with an added flush on her cheeks due to the compliment she got from Selina.

"Ooo! Something to punch!" Jason went his way to a heavy bag so he won't have to hear the conversation.

Dick finds a place to lean on a wall, idly keeping himself away from the social talks going on.

Meanwhile Bruce would navigate Barbara to the computer where she met Tim. He grinned at seeing her, giving her a hug, "It's good to see you Barbara. I would've come sooner if-"

Barbara shook her head, "You have a life outside of the city, and no one would blame you if you didn't come."

Tim nodded, but then found himself looking at Bruce who took a seat by one side of the monitor just as Barbara took up her side to get stuff running. Bruce noticed Tim long gaze at him, but kept his eyes focused on the monitor, "Tim."

"Bruce."

"...Good seeing you and Stephanie again."

"Yeah, thanks," Tim took his own seat as the conversation had died fast as it came about.

As Stephanie was talking to Peter, Cassandra, and Selina, she couldn't help but notice a person missing as she raised her eyebrows, "Wait, where's Alfred?"

Suddenly everyone found themselves either frowning as is, or stopped what they're doing as they were reminded of what became to the butler that is the heart and soul of the Bat family, "...Long story, will bring you and Tim up to speed."

And so they did, mostly, Cassandra and Peter were the one's to fill in what Tim and Stephanie had missed as most of them were around each other. Only Jason and Dick were the ones far removed from the group itself. The likes of Barbara, Selina, and Bruce would fill in certain dots in their own end to better explain the sudden conflict that arises in Gotham. It was a lot to take in. But something that didn't sit well with either of them was Dick taking Venom. Tim eyebrows furrowed, his lips became tense, and his glare was focused on Dick, "THE HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU?!" Just like earlier with everyone else, Dick didn't have the guts to look at Tim, and most were surprised at how quick his anger was, how loud he became in an instant, "YOU KNOW WHAT THAT DID TO BANE! HELL! WHAT IT ONCE DID TO BRUCE?! WHY-"

"It's obvious boy wonder!" Jason fist planted itself on the heavy bag, hard enough to send the bag flying, hitting a wall, breaking a few things, and letting out the sand in it, "The guy wanted to relive the glory days," he walked to the group, with his hands behind his head, "Everyone looked up to the man himself," he gesture his hand to Dick, "The one who in every way shape or form, was supposed to be the true successor from Bruce, that he can't do no wrong! But he's just like anyone else who has insecurities! Once Joker fucked him up, he couldn't live with the fact that he couldn't be his best self. Especially compared to Koriand'r."

The second he mentioned her, Dick was already moving to him, escrima stick out and all, but Peter moved in front of him using one hand to stop him, and the other hand to hold back Jason who whipped out his guns of all things, "NO! IS THIS HOW WE'RE GONNA ACT RIGHT NOW?! OUR CITY IS BURNING, PEOPLE NEED HELP, AND WE'RE FIGHTING AND ARGUING RIGHT NOW OF ALL THINGS?!" Peter didn't care how much his body aches from all these two backs, he had enough of what was brewing between everyone, "STUFF HAPPENED, BUT WE CAN'T FOCUS ON THAT RIGHT NOW!"

And now it was exploding, just like how it was always gonna happen when everyone came back together, "COME ON PARKER!" Jason began looking to have a bone to pick with Peter, "YOU WEREN'T THERE WHEN JOKER DECIDED HE HAD ENOUGH FUN AND GAMES! YOU WERE TOO BUSY TRYING TO SUCK THE LEAGUES DICK THAT YOU COULDN'T EVEN BE THERE FOR US!"

"DON'T BLAST YOUR INSECURITIES ON ME JASON!" Peter shouted right back to Jason, fed up with him already as he pushed him back away from Dick, "IF I COULD! I WOULD'VE STAYED AND HELPED! BUT THEY NEEDED ME!"

"AND YET EVERY SINGLE ONE OF US GOT SCREWED BY THAT STUPID FUCKING CLOWN!" With Peter not holding him back, Jason pointed his gun towards Bruce, "THAT HE SHOULD'VE BEEN PUT DOWN AGES AGO!"

"Jason! Stop!" Stephanie also shouted, "THERE'S NO REASON TO SHOOT BRUCE FOR ALL THAT'S HAPPENED TO US!"

"MAYBE I SHOULD SINCE EVERYTHING THAT IS HAPPENING IS HIS DAMN FAULT! EVERYTHING IS HIS FAULT!"

"Are you really gonna be so dumb to shoot the man that took you in from the ghetto streets of Gotham?!" It was Selina turn to get involved, stepping in front of Bruce, "I get that shit fucked you up, BUT ARE YOU REALLY GONNA SHOOT THE MAN THAT BASICALLY WAS YOUR FATHER WHEN YOU HAD NONE?!"

"I WAS FINE WITHOUT HIM! WITHOUT ANY OF YOU!" Jason waved his gun at everyone as he backed away, "LOOK HOW MESSED UP WE ALL ARE! MAYBE IF BRUCE DIDN'T DECIDE TO BECOME BATMAN, NONE OF THIS WOULD'VE HAPPEN, NONE OF THE PEOPLE WE FACE WOULD CAUSE SO MUCH SHIT TO US!"

"GO AHEAD! GO OFF ON YOUR TANTRUM LIKE IT'S GONNA MAKE EVERYTHING BETTER!" Dick now shouted, "ALWAYS ANGRY AT EVERYTHING AND EVERYBODY! THIS IS WHY YOU GOT KILLED BY JOKER! CAUSE YOU NEVER LISTEN TO ANYONE OTHER THAN YOURSELF!"

"DICK STOP!" Cassandra found her voice in the middle of this chaos.

Jason clocked his gun back at Dick, "SHOOT ME! I DARE YOU! MAYBE IT'LL BE A BLESSING TO DIE SO I DON'T HAVE TO DEAL WITH THE CONSEQUENCES! I DON'T WANNA STOP! I DON'T EVER WANNA GO BACK! I DON'T CARE HOW EVERYONE HERE FEELS! THE VENOM MADE ME STRONG! THE VENOM GAVE ME BACK EVERYTHING I WAS! SO WHAT IF I HAD EMOTIONAL OUTBURSTS AND I TOOK IT OUT ON EVERYONE OF YOU?! SO WHAT IF I SAID STUFF THAT MADE YOU ALL FEEL SMALL?! IF I GO BACK…" Dick felt his voice choking, he was holding back it, he was holding back the built up sadness coming out from his aching heart, "...If I go back then I wouldn't be good enough to anyone…Not even Koriand'r…." Dick looked to Peter, without his domino mask, Peter could see the pleading cyan eyes. He dropped his escrima stick on the floor as he grasped his hands on Peter's shoulder, "...Please…Don't make me go back to what I once was… I can't… I can't go back…"

Peter didn't know what to say, didn't know what the answer was, he was lost in all the frustration, the built up angst going on in the room. How was he supposed to tell the person he looked up to that he had to stop? How does he find the strength to tell Jason his anger only is hurting himself? How does he tell Bruce he can't fear what will happen to us, and instead focus on letting everyone handle Gotham? How can he protect the people that Selina herself wants to protect? How can he keep helping Barbara so she won't leave? How can he find the right words to allow Tim and Stephanie to come back to help them? And how can he keep being courageous enough to stay with Cassandra.

When everyone here is still broken, that the Bat family is still broken, and nothing has really changed since they all went their individual ways. But, if there's anything Peter has been learning due to his therapy session and his time with Cassandra, 'Something has to change...Nothing changes if nothing changes,' Peter told himself. With one move, he brought Dick into a hug, one that let himself speechless at the action he provided for him. With this comfort, he rested his face on Peter's shoulder, feeling the metal parts in his costume, "...It's not fair…It's not fair…" Dick muttered into Peter's ear.

"I know…I know.." Peter said.

It was then Cassandra took a step forward to Jason. She didn't do anything but look into his own eyes, and put her hands on the gun that was still trained on Dick, "...Why are we pretending we're fine…?" Jason asked softly, "...Why are we pretending that we have what it takes to save this city? I mean…It's finally drowning us. Bruce did what he swore he wouldn't, Dick became something worse of the man he once was, Tim and his girl are a reminder what will happen if we keep fighting the people we can't put down for good, and don't get me started on you and Parker over there…"

"...No one is pretending Jason."

"...Feels like everyone is… I can't be the only blind one here…" His eyes turn to the short woman in front of him, "We're not fine, we're not even a family…"

Cassandra would then do what Jason didn't expect her to do. She embraced him, hugged his body, "..We are a family…Broken, but can be better…"

Jason was clueless of what to do, besides lowering his gun, putting the safety mechanism back on, and gently shrug off the hug as he moved away from the group to fix up the punching bag, "...How can we be better when this is what Stephanie and I came back to?" Tim asked, being uncomfortable with the outcome that just happened, "If we can't work as a team, then what purpose is there to even use the Belfry? A place where…It's supposed to represent… Everyone coming together as one…Yet it feels like everyone is here tearing one another apart."

"...But isn't that how it's always been in the end?" Barbara said, no longer being the outside that was quiet and watching everything unfold, "We fight, we argue, we hate one another guts, decisions, all that…But in the end, don't we all come back to help one another? So that we can help everyone?" Barbara questioned, amongst all her own emotions she's dealing with, she wanted to bring up the fact that they're all here right now.

Every one of them.

"Of course we do," Stephanie answered, she grabbed Tim's hand, "This is why we came back too! We know what we were getting into the first place. Right Tim?"

"...Right..It's ju-"

"Oh yeah…This shit is not what I expected."

Selina found herself giggling, one that danced between meaningful and sarcasm that got everyone's attention, "..Sorry…It's just, what did you expect Steph? You expected everyone to be happy and lucky and that we would all simply come together, work together like before?" Selina query, losing the openness she had with her in exchange to be confrontational.

"...No, but…" She found herself sighing and shrugging her shoulders, "...I just didn't think Tim and I would be coming back to something more depressing as before."

"Because you both left because of me," Bruce chimed in. He stood up, grunting from the bullet wound still bothering his body, "...Everyone here has been affected by me…" Bruce moved in the center where everyone was at. Everyone's attention was now on him, "I can't do anything about it," he put his hands in his pocket, "I'm scared of what will happen to you all, I'm scared that if I go back to being who I was, then I'll truly would never stop unless someone stop me…Permanently," Bruce swept the bit of dust off the metallic floor, leaving more room for the huge cracked bat symbol on the floor to be shown clear, "I can't take away none of your pain's, none of your trauma's," he then turn to everyone, with the view of the city in the back and the cracked bell tower that hang near the window, "Because that makes each and everyone of you, who you are. The only thing I can do…Is confront my fear, and hope by god that you will all not only heal from the pain I cause, the pain this city caused on you all, the pain these villains we face caused as well, and keep fighting together while looking out for one another. Cassandra and Barbara told me that they fear what would happen if I do wear the cowl again, and I can't do that. I said to Selina…If we were to…Really start our own family," Bruce let his eyes soften when looking at his wife, the wife that would and will take a bullet for him, "..I have to be a better man for me to do that. And I want to, with everything in my heart, I want to be better. For you all, and to those I hurt… I hope that one day, you all could look upon me as a better man. Not as…Batman, no, as Bruce Wayne."

Everyone listens to him, not Batman, but Bruce Wayne. Everyone listens to the man who all but lost everything the day his parents were murder in an alleyway, everyone listens to the man who has grown since then. Slowly but surely, everyone was now listening to the boy that grew out of that alleyway, who's trying to find a way to walk down a lighter path.

To walk down as a full fledged, better man, a better human bean even.

Everyone was now listening to a man who is now trying to revive the boy that died in the alleyway with his parents. And the first person to do anything was none other than his wife; she walked without her cast, dragging her feet that were wrapped up in bandages from getting shot, and she would hug him, hug him tightly into his arms. Bruce in response, returned the hug to his wife, letting his cheek rest on her shoulders. When the hug was done, Selina turned to everyone with a serious look on her face, "Are we all done with our arguments? Are we all done lashing out with one another? As Peter said, this city needs all of us one way or another and we can't keep arguing amongst one another if we want to do something to help this city."

"...I don't have any problems, just uncomfortable with the aura around almost everyone here," Tim turned to his girlfriend, "Do you Steph?"

"No babe. Not at this moment," Stephanie cheekily said, having Tim bum his shoulders with her in response.

"..We need a plan, a good plan into saving Talia," Jason remarked, coming back closer to everyone, near Cassandra with his arms crossed, "That bastard Knight will be expecting any or all of us to come save her."

"I know a guy that can help get this place in better shape. Hopefully he isn't too busy," Barbara said, "I'll still put all my effort into navigating us all to where we need to be, and make sure our software is able to do a lot of the work the likes of the Batcave and my clocktower can do. With my focus here, I would need someone to pull some stuff I have to the clocktower here too."

"I'll do it," Peter said, "As we're getting this place up and running, we need to figure out how much Kasady has affected people in this city. His army is probably as big or bigger than the Arkham Knight's own. The true difference is that they're scattered around the city while the Knight's of the sun are more coordinated together. I can call up Dewolff to see if she got a sample that I can burrow into tracking the amount of people Kasady infected if she had gotten some from our recent scuffle. And we also need to figure out where he's keeping Felicia and MJ, hopefully both are in the same place with one another."

"We will. We'll find them, take down Arkham Knight, save Talia, and make sure Carnage…Is no more," Cassandra stated.

"...Even with what I've done…You all will still have me help you all out?" Dick asked, worried if he can still be of some use to everyone in his state.

"Ted can give you a suit that will help deal with the withdrawals, everyone here would want you off the venom Dick," Barbara said.

Dick briefly looked at Barbara, then at everyone else as they all were more contended on the idea of Dick not hurting himself more with venom. Dick sighed, "...It won't be easy."

With Peter still near him, he patted his shoulders, "And that's why we're here. Everyone is here for you Dick."

"Great. With everything hash out and I can't leave, this place is a shit hole and rea-"

"Jason, can you not ruin this touching moment we're having?"

"Steph, I hate touching moments."

---

November 24

Mary Jane felt her consciousness awaken from the darkness that shrouded her from what seemed like forever. The first thing she felt was her cheeks, hands, body laying on some type of thick material. It felt cold, not even just that, she felt her body shiver from whatever daftness she can feel. Her eyes blink, still dazed as her vision begins to become more clearer, just when she starts seeing someone looking to be playing a harmonica.

She let her hands sit her up, her face cringing as she felt her body was sore, the kind of sore she was familiar when she got her ass handed to her. Then there was a dull headache as she tried remembering what happened and where the hell was she for her to feel this sore, '...Ok, rib hurts, head hurts, but I know nothing is bleeding. A good sign..Shit, the only thing I can remember was going into an uber then everything went dark…' Mary Jane felt herself squinting, focusing more of what she can remember vaguely, 'No…I was trying to fight my way from getting gassed…Whoever kidnap me knew how to do it, and know who I am in the first place to even kidnap me..' she shook her head, trying to shake off the headache and dizziness she still felt. Seeing as this was the base of what she can remember, Mary Jane started looking around, beyond the person playing harmonica in the dark area. For one, she was caged in a sort of prison containment that was locked by an access fingerprint. It didn't help that there were also smaller containment cells, lined up separated from one another, broken, and had liquid dried up all over the concrete floor.

Whatever this place was, Mary Jane had a feeling it was some psychotic lair for a villain, but not of use as it once was, "HEY!" Mary Jane yelled out to the person who kept casually minding her business while playing the harmonica. She stood up, a bit shaky that she had to use the cell windows to keep her standing. She ended up banging the cell window to get the woman's attention, "ANY REASON WHY I'M IN A CELL?! DID I PISSED OFF THE WRONG PEOPLE AGAIN?!"

This woman kept playing the harmonica in the dark area, ignoring Mary Jane's shout of attention. The red hair sucked her teeth and kept looking around her to find a way out, 'Great..A damsel in distress once more by someone who-' her train of thoughts about her own situation was cut short when she saw someone she can easily recognized by their platinum blond hair, "Felicia..?!" Mary Jane said as she gasped at the shock of seeing her of all places here with her. Mary Jane moved to her, trying to shake her awake. She noticed she was beaten badly as the right side of her cheek was swollen a little, one eye was darkened in blue, then there was the fact that she had more casual dressing, one that looked to be a simple black dress for a night out, or how Mary Jane may see it.

A stake out to steal.

Her black dressing was trashed, cut up left and right showcasing more of her skin, skin from head to toe that was literal in bruises and cuts that were dried, but very open, "WHAT THE HELL DID YOU DID TO HER?!" Mary Jane angrily shouted at the person behind her. Again she was ignored, and that frustrated Mary Jane that this punk chick probably has some type of plan for them and she doesn't know what the hell is going on in the first place. Mary Jane went back to trying to wake Felicia, "Felicia.. Felicia..!" When the shaking didn't work, Mary Jane had to do something else.

She smacked her by the cheek that wasn't swollen. Felicia crimson eyes shut open, going to choke Mary Jane, but she loudly groaned when the pain in her shoulders occurred. She focused on her breathing, then focused on her area, then focused on Mary Jane, squinting at first, before scoffing and looking away from her, "...Since when did you have curls red..?" Felicia asked.

Mary Jane was taken aback at that question, "You get fucked up, almost tried to attack me, and the thing that is on your mind is my messy curls?" Mary Jane huffed and eyerolled, "Feel that is something someone would say in a dire situation as this."

"..He does have that effect," Felicia tried to move, but it hurt to move just a bit when adjusting herself, "Where the hell are we red? Looks like an… abandoned lair by a mad scientist."

"Ask the chick who has a thing for Metallica," Mary Jane said, gesturing her thumb to shriek.

Felicia looked towards Shriek who paid no attention to the two women cage up. Her crimson eyes widened slightly, "Isn't that the…Bitch Peter fought with that Venom wanna be?" Felicia questions in a whisper tone.

Once Felicia mentioned this, Mary Jane felt her own viridescent eyes widen more than Felicia, "Shit it is."

"Then it means…I'm pulled back into Gotham…" Felicia felt her face become grimace as what's being dawn upon her, "..Fucking hell...I can't escape this city can't I? Nor the people in it.." Felicia muttered to herself.

It was too bad for her, that Mary Jane heard this as she turned to look at the cat burglar, "Guess you can say you and I are in the same bracket."

Before Felicia could say anything else, Shriek stopped playing her harmonica, pocketing it behind her, "And so! We have the actress trying to make it big," Shriek slowly walked to cage cell, "And the Cat burglar who can't seem to have good luck on her side," Shriek eyes move to Mary Jane, "Big fan by the way, coming from Gotham of all places to where you at now? Impressive feat. Wonder who balls you had to suck to get there though."

Mary Jane felt herself scoffing, "This isn't the 20th century where that was a case by case thing. And who had you design your look? If you're trying to impress Joan Jett then you're doing a terrible job."

Shriek found herself giggling, "Got spunk. I like that," her eyes then turn to Felicia, "You however, were harder to get."

Felicia's eyes narrowed in her direction "..How were you able to find me in the first place?"

"Well seeing that today is the thanks of giving," Felicia again found herself shook at the announcement today was Thanksgiving, 'Have I been held hostage for 2 weeks?' Felicia gritted her teeth as she prodded more in her own thoughts, 'That's why I can't remember being here…They must've kept moving me since I was trying to escape…And it explains why my body is fucked right now.'

"It wasn't that hard to figure out where Black cat ended up too after she left Gotham 3 or 4 years ago," Shriek continually said, " Give or take that is. My partner is a fanatic when it comes to knowing who Spider-Man cares and loves, and it doesn't help that you were well known for working with Catwoman years ago, a sort of apprentice of hers."

Felicia's eyes narrowed, "Get your facts right because she didn't teach me shit. I learned everything either on my own or from my father."

Shriek shrugs, "That's not what he thinks but whatever floats your boat. You were still connected to her, helped her, and entangled yourself with Spider-Man too. And from what I know from my lover, the guy somehow is able to attract you and find girls that are way out of his league. How does he do it?" Neither Mary Jane or Felicia answer that question, not that it was her business anyhow, "Either way, doesn't matter, the game will start soon anyhow."

"Game?" Felicia scoffed, "Might as well kill us and get it over with."

Shriek holler out a laughter. Meanwhile, Mary Jane hit her shoulder and looked at her as if she lost her mind for saying something like, "You nuts?! I'm not trying to die by this crazy woman!"

"Name's shriek by the way, since I-"

"Nobody cares/I don't give a shit," both Mary Jane and Felicia said.

"Jeez, maybe when I get the chance I'll find my way back into your ex's mind to see more of how he views the both of you," Shriek smirked, a smirk that danced between sadistic and a hint of lust.

It weirded both of them out to see that type of expression on a woman that has the power to do what she wants when it came out to them, "He'll find us! And when he does, he'll knock that stupid shit on your face!"

"On the contrary Ms. Watson, this is a fight that'll make him join us."

Now this was something Felicia found herself laughing at, "Join? You and your boyfriend must not know him then as you both think. Guy had a hard time joining loads of other teams, and you think any of you can recruit him to have him help in whatever the fuck kind of conquest you all want?" Again, Felicia laughs at the thought process, "Like red here, we know him just enough that he won't ever do such things. Plus, he has people in high places that wouldn't let that slide, trust me, I know one of them would wish you were dead if she got her hands on you."

Shriek smirk didn't waver from either woman's threats as she put her hands on the cage window, "And that's why we'll break him by slowly taking everything he cares about, and when he has no one but us… He'll join, and it's gonna start with the two of you."

Mary Jane and Felicia look at one another, one being filled with fear and the other not sure how the hell they're gonna get out of this situation if Peter doesn't find them.

---

"AHHHH…gAHH..AH…"

Talia vomited blood as she was detained, hanged up by metallic shackles that kept her hands, legs from escaping. Her body was convulsing from the multiple wires connecting to her important veins, enduring immeasurable pain as the Arkham Knight and their army were draining her blood into a machine that held her blood.

Even in the agony state she was in, Talia was familiar with the room she's in; strung up above a pit where it had clear ruby like water in it. Loads of generators, both old and new machines coupled with wiring that would power something beneath. With that, the room gave off a green hue to the area where the Arkham Knight stood before her with their arms crossed. Their modulated voice let out a snicker just when they stop taking the blood from Talia, "That's right, suffer," The Arkham Knight step closer to Talia, grabbing her chin to make sure she was looking directly at them, "Suffer knowing what you have inside yourself would be giving to someone worthy of a second life."

Heavily breathing, trying to control her breathing, ignoring every inch of her body going through higher and higher dosage of torment for whatever the Arkham Knight wants from her, "...All this…Was to…Resurrect someone…At the place…My father built the first Lazarus pit…"

"Yes," The Knight let go of her chin, pushing it away with no utter care for her well being. Their soldiers started strolling in a chamber that was in deep cold temperature, right near Talia and the machine chamber that held the blood they've taken, "The place your father built centuries ago, and was supposed to be destroyed. But thanks to modern technology, anything is possible."

Talia, even with how bleak and dark her vision was from pure exhaustion, got a glimpse of who was in that chamber. She felt her eyes drawn on not only at that chamber, but at the Arkham Knight, "...YOUR MAD!" She shouted, coughing up blood at the same time, "...To bring back that clown.."

The Arkham Knight tilted their head, almost like she found Talia's statement a joke more than anything, "Like father like child as they say! But no. I got enough of a common sense to know why I have to resurrect him," The Arkham Knight would place their hands on the chamber, drifting their direction to the dead clown prince of crime, "...He's the father I always wanted…But time was never with us…I made myself this way because he saved me. When everyone failed me, when the justice system failed me, and when the Dark Knight didn't even know of my existence to save me…He did, and he saved me…" The Knight spoke in a more somber, soft tone than their usual sarcastic and bold voice they usually had.

Talia suddenly found herself laughing and it caused her to moan due to the discomfort of what her body has been through for sometime, "...You're no different then. From all…The people they face…Just another damaged person venting their trauma out."

The Arkham Knight went quiet with the only sounds coming from the computer system their army was working on to get the old Lazarus pit up and running. They kept their gaze just a little longer on the person they wanted to be with so badly, and knew they would be when everything goes according to plan, "...Sure, I am. But I'm beyond damage," The Knight let their hands go on the chamber, looking back at Talia, "He told me that to be with him…I would have to become what I am now, and so I did, now it's my job to bring him back so we can be a duo we both dreamt of. And I'll do," the Knight tightened their hands into a fist, "Everything in my power to bring him back, by using your methods that has the least consequences compared to the dark magics and devils this world has."

"And what if-"

"IT WILL WORK!" The Arkham Knight ran up to them and shouted, "I will not…Lose my life to bring him back. He will be with me, as I with him. Put her in sedation and prep the pit, we need to move quickly before any other problem occurs. Let's bring back the man who will save this city."

Everyone agreed, just as Talia's eyes couldn't help but stare into the eyes of the dead clown near her.

---

For almost half of the day, the Batfamily had been working hard on rebuilding. Some worked on rebuilding the Belfry; retooling it, updating everything as much as they could and as fast as they could. But mostly, each and everyone of them were working on rebuilding the bond they have with each other.

Some were easier then most, but others still had a long way to go. Selina was overseeing Dick, Jason, Cassandra, and Stephanie sparring. All four of them had gloves, shin guards, elbow pads, mouth guard, and hand wraps on to avoid any more unnecessary injuries. Cassandra and Stephanie's sparring were fluid, always moving, changing each strikes and kicks, while always countering and responding immediately regardless if the attack was blocked or landed. Selina noted Cassandra was very much the more experienced fighter. Everything came with ease for her; such as striking, evading, kicking, taking Stephanie on the ground and using tactics to disarm her easily. But Stephanie was no slouch either; while Cassandra was more experienced in a lot area's, Stephanie can keep up with her cardio, always finding a way to escape in dire situations, get hit, but respond something back.

It also helped that Cassandra was pushing her. She was hitting a little hard in the body and legs teaching Stephanie precisely that coming back to Gotham should not be taken lightly. Yet Stephanie pushed through it, smiling, giggling at being able to train with her friend again, and this in itself, allowed Cassandra to smile and share her own giggle with her friend.

"Keep those hands up Steph, don't let firecracker get her way!"

"She always has a way!"

"Not true!"

"Yes, it's true!" Stephanie went for a head kick that Cassandra weaved, and quickly responded with a low kick, along with three more low kicks while changing angles like she was a ballerina at the same time. Stephanie ended up eating those kicks, "See what I mean?!" She shouted to Selina while keeping her eyes on Cassandra.

And Cassandra was all smiles and glee at being able to get away with it, "No rust. You rust," Stephanie pouted before throwing two strikes and went for a low kick, letting Cassandra raise her shin to block the kick, but then Stephanie switched her body motion for a jumping spinning kick, "Whoa!" Cassandra ducks under, and goes for a sweep, causing Stephanie to land on the floor and roll back onto her feet, "Ok. Not so rust," Stephanie shrugs and smiles before both women pat each other's gloves and go back to back and forth sparring. It in itself made Selina grin heavily at seeing Cassandra have Stephanie back to give her more positivity in her life. And she needs all the help she can right now.

Jason and Dick were different however, something Selina found herself focusing heavily on more than two other Bat's, "Dick! Stop trying to strike with strength! Use what you're good at!" Selina advises. Dick and Jason sparring was more like a grudge match than anything, both striking with power then speed. Dick wasn't listening to Selina as he should, not using his own speed to out maneuver Jason.

In hindsight, Dick really just wanted to hit Jason badly, "Yeah birdie! Listen to momma Wayne's there!" Jason antagonizes. This caused Dick to flare up; going in for a strike, slip, strike, enough so he was able to wrap his arms around Jason, from neck and bicep. But Jason would easily overpower his clinch, push him away and use wrestling technique, shooting with forward momentum thanks to his legs, Jason grabs the back of Dick legs, trying to get him off balance to the ground. But he saw this coming, which quickly allowed Dick to use his own strength to sprawl Jason on the floor, keeping Jason low as his arms circle around his chest while being slightly over him. But once more due to the venom not having the same effect as earlier, Jason strength overpowers Dick, slipping out from his sprawl through the right side of his body, and quickly maneuvering behind Dick to get him in the chokehold. Dick uses his forearms to protect the neck, giving him enough time to rotate his body seeing as Jason didn't use his legs to lock his body. This would then cause Jason to switch into a full guard, his legs crossing one another tightly on Dick's back to hold him into place "Don't stay in that position Dick!"

"I know!" Dick yelled back as he applied his knee down on the ground where he used his elbows to dig through Jason's thigh. Dick grunted, using the strength of his elbow to move Jason's legs off him.

But Jason chuckle, hitting him clean in the face, dazing him, and allowing his leg to maneuver to a choke position; one leg wrap around the base of his neck, moving his body quickly to the left, and applying the back of his other legs to lock it tight on his shins into a triangle choke, "Tap tap tap, or your going night night night," Dick didn't tap, and what saved him was the buzzer that indicated the round was over, "Fuck!" Jason let go of Dick, hopping onto his feet as he pushed some of his away from his face, "Almost had you," Jason soon found himself frowning at Dick laying on the floor not bothering to get up.

Jason eyerolled, and picked him up to his feet, "Listen to Momma Wayne you Dick!" Jason said as he slap Dick on the cheek, "Otherwise I'll keep fucking you up, which, I don't mind actually!"

"Why the hell are you trying to paint me as some type of mobster queen Jason?" Selina probed, finding the nickname dry then funny.

"Aren't you related to Falcone?" He directed his question to his technical coach.

"The fuck if I know," Selina said by throwing up her hands in the air, "Never found out before he got killed. Not important anyhow."

"Well, Momma Wayne it is!"

"Shut up!"

Cassandra and Stephanie couldn't help but giggle at their interaction. It seems like between Selina and Jason that their annoyance for each other hadn't been lost at all, "Momma Wayne isn't a bad name Selina," Stephanie said.

"Not a momma yet!"

"You are! Technically," Cassandra added, "To us!"

"...This is absolutely… FUCKING TRUE! But Jason would be the only one that isn't allowed to call me that."

Jason had his mouth open, couldn't believe she vouch more of them then to him who technically had every right to be vouch for first, "BUT I'M THE FUCKING ONE THAT SAID IT FIRST?! I COPY WRITE IT TECHNICALLY!" Jason exclaimed with annoyance.

The bell would soon ring again, and Dick caught Jason off guard with a swift kick to Jason's body that led him to groan, but not flinch from the attack. Jason's eyes glared at Dick, who now had a small smile on his face seeing as he knew he was still recovering from multiple battle's he's been put into recently, "Keep your eyes on your opponent, angry bird."

"...Oh it's fucking on Grayson!"

"YOU BOTH BETTER CONTROL THE SPARRING THIS TIME! LADIES! PLEASE BE AWARE OF THE TWO MAN GOING AT IT!" Selina sighed when watching a now more motivated Dick sparring with Jason, moving more fluid then before and using his speed to advantage, "Well, at least he's listening."

Peter and Tim were more focused on running the engineering and chemist lab together. On Peter's side, he was configuring a desk machine that was repairing his suit and helped produce more crafted equipment. Tim's side was more focused on helping build Peter's web fluid with the combination of different amounts of elements being mixed together in a bleaker while being heated in the same bleaker. Tim had to make sure to use not only safety goggles, but gloves and a white coat when doing the process, and being careful since he doesn't have two hands to manage everything at a faster pace. Meanwhile, Peter himself simply wore a t-shirt from his old college, Gotham university, and some short pants when configuring some wiring underneath the desk. He used a few tools to cut wires, a small thermal heater to bind the wirings together, while also using a marker to mark where he needed to cut, "Make sure you use just enough titanium melted into the Ethyl acetate."

"Mhm."

"And don't forget to double the psi!"

"Yeah."

"And al-"

"Peter!"

"Huh?"

Peter, using a skateboard that his back was on, rolled out of the desk to look up at Tim, who had a small frown on his face, "This isn't the first time I made your web fluid."

"Oh..Right," Peter found himself pouting a little when Tim said, "Sorry, sometimes I forget how easily you can remember the formula compared to most.."

Tim lightly chuckled when using a thermometer to check the heat of the beaker, "Seems you still have a habit of instructing me on this and that. Just add on us arguing for me to quit being Robin then it'll definitely be like old times," he jested in a slightly darker tone.

Peter felt himself cringing from being reminded of the little mistakes he made involving his relationship with Tim. A common theme of him not having a good experience with people younger than him wanting to be heroes, with or without powers, "Yeah…You surprised me then by wanting to be the next Robin you know?" Peter sat himself up on the skateboard, "I mean I never thought I would meet a kid who wanted so badly to help Bruce and help everyone in Gotham. Especially with how intelligent you are and it's why I kept trying to push you into being more than this."

"Wasn't you the same?"

"Well uh…" Peter chuckled, scratching behind his hair that still needed cutting with how long and big it had gotten for some time, "Not like you, but yeah, technically...Yeah. We're alike in that sense. We both are meant to do so much more, but instead, we decided the greatest thing we can do is help people both with our hands and mind. Heh, not the common way ordinary folks do it too."

Tim would monitor the other elements in the other beaker before mixing it into one. It's then he noticed Peter was looking at him working with one arm, and the prosthetic leg he uses to walk, "It's not your fault, you also know that right?"

Peter nodded as he put the marker on top of his ears, "Yeah...I know...But knowing who I am, I can't help but think you and Steph didn't deserve what happened to you," Tim was gonna say something back, but Peter raised his hands to stop him from commenting what he believed he would've said, "I know, it's in the past, it happened. I know that, and I'm trying to relearn how to deal with that…Some things are out of my control, I know this very well, and there are just some things I can't stop when I'm not around. Didn't help that people died and got hurt from my last fight with Kasady."

"Yet look at the fact you held up a train, a train dude! And somehow, no one died too!"

"Ah stop, you're making me blush," Peter said, a small smile present on his face as he waved off Tim who too wore a smile amongst their conversation, "Because honestly? That was a lot harder than it seemed. My arms, legs are still very sore from that deadlift."

"Still dude. You're one of the strongest person I know, and you have your flaws yeah, but no matter what's thrown at you, you always get back up and stand your ground on things that are way tougher than you can handle," Tim said humbly, "And that in itself," Tim would use an a syringe to take a material in another beaker, and added to another one, just before using an overhead electric machine that was able to mix up the chemicals in the beaker. Once removing it, Tim saw silk coming out being perfectly made, "Gives everyone here strength to keep fighting, and it's also a reason," Tim looked back at Peter, with a small smile prominent on his face, "Why Steph and I came back, to help everyone, to help this city…And to also close old wounds that needs closing."

Peter listens to the young man that essentially is now an adult. Peter remembers a time when Tim really was like him; balancing school, relationships, work, and being Robin. He really didn't want him to be apart of that lifestyle just like him, but there was no stopping him with how much he tried, 'Compare to Mattie…Somehow Tim never hated me for how much I try dissuading him..Heh, he's just too good for me, to us even,' Peter said himself before looking at the women who had fun sparring with Stephanie.

Their eyes locked as she slipped and evaded Stephanie's attack. Their eyes, basil and hazel never once removed from another at this time, and it caused their smile, their glee, and happiness to spark. To know that right now, it's no longer the two of them, and even when there are things that need improving, they both aren't alone anymore. In this little moment, their little moment, they're heart skipped a beat, and it was like they were falling in love again at seeing their best qualities coming around to uplift their family up from the ground, "How did I get so lucky with her..?" Peter asked himself.

"I don't know, how about you ask her?"

Forgetting Tim was there, Peter looked back at him with embarrassment upon his face, getting the younger men to chuckle, "You weren't supposed to hear that!" he said in an unusually high pitched voice.

"Oh but I did," Tim would turn off the heater and let the beaker with the artificial silk cool down before he put into smaller components for Peter's web shooter, "Say, how did you ever make these web shooters in the past before you started making them in the Batcave?"

"Oh, I never told you?" Tim shook his head, causing a small pout on his end, "Well, I use to break into ace chemical every now and again to borrow their equipment," Tim eyebrow raised, "They were the closest kind of place where I can work on these ideas on my own time, and it helps that security was low," Tim would then shake his head, "Hey I was above asking for help, unless someone was that stubborn to help in my web slinging pursuit."

"Your um… Ex..Right?" Tim asked carefully, since that was a sensitive topic.

Yet Peter took it in stride as he nodded, "Yep! When she found out that I was Spider-Man, she didn't care if I said no, she was willing to help one way or another. Without her, I would've had a tougher time forming relationships with everyone here, especially angry bird over there," Peter pointed to Jason who ended up getting flipped by Dick through the usage of legs clutching his neck, and flipping him to the ground, "GOOD ONE DICK!"

"SHUT THE HELL UP PAR-" Dick transitioned into a rear naked choke that stopped him from talking.

"HA! CAT GOT YOUR TONGUE?!"

"DON'T PUT ME IN THAT PETER!"

"MY BAD!"

"STOP DISTRACTING MOMMA WAYNE PETER!"

"BUT I'M NOT STEPH!"

"KEEP DISTRACTION!"

"YOUR GONNA GET ME KILLED CASS!"

"LITTLE BIT QUIET PLEASE! TRYING TO FOCUS HERE!"

"OK BABS! HOW'S THE COMPUTER GOING?!"

"SMOOTH! NOW QUIET PLEASE?!"

Tim chuckles at the back and forth Peter had with just about everyone. Somehow, a part of Tim wishes that he had that with Peter a bit more, 'It's not like we didn't have similar moments, but I won't lie how much Peter has had deeper connections with everyone kind of...Irks me. We may share the intelligent side, the knack of having balancing problems and some other things. But it was never as easy to bond over things with Peter...Sometimes I feel it's because well, I was replacing Jason, or the fact I was 17 starting out as Robin, or maybe how badly I wanted to be Robin to help Bruce out, or again…We had a lot in common,' Tim said to himself as he felt he personally needed to come to terms with the relationship he's had with Peter over the years, 'Unlike Dick and Jason, Bruce chose them in a way to be Robin. I simply deduced who Bruce and Peter were, to the point I found the cave, and expressed my choice of wanting to be a Robin, to be a hero like them. With how open Peter is right now, I have a...Hopeful feeling we can move past that and build a better bond, since he was able to talk about his former ex with me, something he avoids with me more than others.'

They heard the bell ring, indicating another minute of resting for the 4 people who were sparring. It was then, Cassandra and Stephanie went over to them. Stephanie had a skip on her feet when going to Tim, giving him a kiss on the cheek. Meanwhile Cassandra blitzes over to Peter, "WHOA I'M ON A SKATEBOARD CASS!" Peter shouted as he put his hands out to stop her. She was able to slide in front of Peter without either having to move him from the skateboard or cause any sort of damage in the area from her sprint. Through her slide, she quite literally took off her mouth guard and slid her lips into his, getting a slight gasp in response. Cassandra would use her hand to grab his cheeks, deepening the kiss, even if it was kind of messy due to her saliva and all.

Tim found himself looking away from the scene because of the messy kissing that was going on, and yet his own girlfriend did neither, "Awwww…They're still so cute to see!" She said clearly when taking off her own mouth guard

Tim would sigh, using his girlfriend's shoulder to help and not look at the scene in front of him, "And I can see Cassandra still hasn't learned public decency."

"WHEN'S THE WEDDING GUYS?!" Stephanie shouted, getting Tim groaned and clutched one part of his ear from her sudden shout.

This had gotten Cassandra and Peter to stop their make out session, and have them full on red in bashfulness, "Steph! That isn't a question you can just throw out!" Peter said.

Cassandra nodded on her end as her hands moved to wrap Peter close to her, "Takes time! Patience!"

"Soooooo, tomorrow then?"

"Ugh," Tim once again shook his head as he rubbed the bridge of his nose, "Please excuse her, she really hasn't seen you both in so long and this is the consequences of it."

"Don't mind my cute boyfriend here!" she grabs his jaw and gently squeezes as she giggles near him, "He's just mad that we won't have time for ourselves anymore."

"STEPH!"

"YOU TWO, STOP MAKING OUT WITH YOUR BOY TOY'S AND GET BACK TO TRAINING!" Selina hollered out from a distance.

Bruce briefly looked around the Belfry being lit up with the bond everyone shares with one another. There still was a lot to work on, but what he loved seeing was none of the love for either one of each other had gone away. Regardless of what, the love was still there, the care was still there, and that only served to bring more hope into what will come next. Barbara took note of this too, eyeing Bruce by her side who was staring proudly of what was happening "Nostalgic huh?"

"Yeah," Bruce then turned back to the computer to continue his work with Barbara, "This is what we needed, what everyone needed."

"I can agree to that. Ted was able to update our software to the Belfry's system, and thanks to Peter, I'm able to do more stuff with the equipment being able to carry over from clocktower to here.

"It's still not as fast or strong as the Bat computer," Bruce pointed out.

"I know, but with time it'll get there," Barbara stated as her end was focused on getting every system in building up to speed, "Ted also should be here in a few days time to give the Belfry even more upgrades."

"Then there's also Koriand'r wanting help with everything else," Bruce added, "She knows how this symbiote works so it could help to our advantage. With her going to Ravencroft soon with Dick, it should be a good starting off point to figuring more out this new symbiote. All that matters is when she'll be showing up since she still has a planet to run first and foremost."

"Still leaves the question on how we're going to save Talia, or where to start looking for Mary Jane Watson and Felicia Hardy. Saving Talia would be hard with how much force and weapon being sent down there."

"Luckily with Ms. Watson and Ms. Hardy might be a bit easier. Alfred was always one step ahead and documented his physical stuff onto the Bat computer," Bruce said when pulling up notes and sketches of Alfred's detective work involving Kasady, "Here he made note of where Kasady has been, all mostly have to do with Peter. From where he used to live with his Aunt and Uncle along with Stacey's, a shut down feast shelter that Martin Li once ran, Peter's few apartments he rented, and I believe an Osborn factory that's been deconstructed."

"Must be some lair goblin had which is why Kasady and his partner Frances used," Barbara commented.

Bruce nodded in agreement, "My point exactly, gonna need a lot a ground to cover for that operation," Bruce noted from one of the camera footage, someone with a lot of food had just came by at the ground level of the Belfry, "But before we begin our operation, we need to refuel," Besides Barbara who knew about this, everyone was curious to where Bruce was going, but what was even more astounding was him bring back a bunch of food in his hand, "...It's Thanksgiving. We can't make food right now so I went and or-"

"FOOD!"

"SOMEONE STOP CASS FROM EATING ALL OF IT!" Steph shouted as she chased after Cassandra.

"OH HELL NO! I'M FUCKING STARVING!"

Next thing Bruce knew, all three of them squished to one another, tumbling right in front of Bruce, "Crap…" He looked to Peter, as he threw the bags of food in the air, trusting in him to save it.

No one was able to save Bruce from getting throttled by Cassandra, Stephanie and Jason, but luckily, Peter made sure to stop any of the food from dropping on the floor, catching them with ease in his hands, "...You ok Bruce?" Peter asked, trying to hold back a laughter.

Bruce blinked as he looked at Peter, "...I think I broke something, or I might be bleeding again…"

Selina sighed as her hands face planted to her forehead, "Kids...I swear."

"Least some of us have grown up," Dick said.

"Who's we?" Barbara question.

"I think he just means the few that basically crushed Bruce's legs," Tim interjected.

For just a second, as the laughter coming from Cassandra and Stephanie, Jason mumbling in anger from getting tripped on, and especially the other Bat family sharing their own laughter, it really did feel like old times that the Bat family had amongst one another.

A moment of peace, in between the constant fear of who they have to face.

Chapter 19: Prepare

The sun shines a bit more brightly through the windows of Belfry tower. It was an odd way for the Bat family to spend Thanksgiving eating take out breakfast instead of making them on their own. Then again, Bruce was rich, still rich even after pouring billions of dollars on his war against crime when he was Batman. And after he retired the mantle, and let Cassandra take it up, he still made sure to pour his money where he felt it mattered. Not to say Bruce didn't find other means to help Gotham beyond vigilante work. Yet it was something he had a more focus on than the entrepreneur side of things. Times did change for Bruce to focus on the exploits of his entrepreneur side, and he still feels the real difference lies in the heroes that are willing to do so much for this city and beyond it.

Even after everything they've been through, Bruce was glad to have this moment with his family; a break from all the fighting, arguments, and bruises they suffered recently. It didn't help that there's also been a build up of untreated trauma not just from a year ago, but years and years of enduring the hardships when being a hero. It could've been in a better space but there was a reason they needed to eat here than anywhere else. For one, they still have a lot to plan out on how to go against the two villains in this city, which means also keep from prying ears from eavesdropping. And two, as Tim mentioned, the Belfry was once created to be a place where redemption is possible for anyone wanting to do good in Gotham.

What better way to take a breather in a place that was meant for that?

Thanks to Peter, he moved both a couch and a table that was from another section in the Belfry tower that had a kitchen and living room. It allowed for Dick, Jason, Tim, Stephanie, Selina, and Cassandra to have a place to sit and eat. Meanwhile, Bruce and Barbara kept themselves near the computer, monitoring what they needed to monitor. Dewolff was helpful in this front as she had a symbiote preserved from Jameson fight. Bruce and Barbara were able to get a sample of a symbiote that was all but frozen and active, but can be traced to find similar traces of it around Gotham. Peter made sure to handle the transition when getting into contact with the commissioner right before they started eating. Barbara was monitoring the data on it while eating an omelet, whereas Bruce was letting his side of his computer grab whatever data that his network had from the Batcave. It included all sorts of old and new files that involved records of everything he and his family had dealt with for years. He was also trying to run down on the identities that could involve the Arkham Knight, while also letting the computer sketch up a 3D map on what their base was. Before it lost connection, Peter's spider drone was able to capture footage of what their base looked like now, and with the system recreating what it looks like, the bat family can plan out their operation.

But time was of the essence, three people are now hostages amongst the two anarchist villains. With that in mind, it's why the Belfry was now quiet unlike minutes before when each of them were doing something that kept them occupied. With each of them sitting and eating, their minds were focused on a plethora of things.

Hostages for one; Mary Jane Watson, Felicia Hardy, and Talia al Ghul.

The anarchist; Arkham Knight with the Knights of the sun, and Carnage with his partner shriek and his army.

Gotham itself, waiting for chaos to erupt, and let madness take over the streets once again.

But also how they felt about one another, along with themselves added to it.

Tim's mind lingers on how or where he'll be of use since it's been a while since he fought in Gotham. He might've kept up his form, his training in San Francisco, but he knows the rust will surely present itself, and not to mention, he'll be at a disadvantage with his missing eye, arm, and legs, 'No way I can be of use against the Arkham Knight forces just yet. With what I heard and had been doing on the bit of research we have on them, I can't afford to be there just yet. My usage should be finding Mary Jane and Felicia, along with providing more intel on Carnage,' He felt himself briefly sigh when looking at Jason and Dick who sat at separate sides of the couch. Jason ate rather aggressively, his chewing being the loudest while Dick took his time, 'I need to do something about those two… But I don't know what. To think Dick is on venom or how far long of a mental toll Jason has been to almost shoot either Dick or Bruce…I need to do something, anything to make sure those two heads are in the game.'

Stephanie's thoughts were more alike of the people around here. She knows a lot has changed in her and Tim's absence, and it didn't help upon leaving to get away from here everything was already crumbling around them. She needed to do what was right for her and Tim because just as their physical health had suffered, so was their mental health, 'It's good that it has quieted down for time being. But I know more problems still needed to be fix so it wouldn't disrupt our teamwork,' Stephanie gaze looked upon Cassandra who sat near Peter as they ate a variety of stuff like oatmeal, eggs, hash brown, and even pancakes. Seeing how they ate so much brought a small smile on her face, 'Least those too appetites haven't changed, but I can't help but worry if their more lingering relationship problems between them is solved. Something I gotta ask when I can, and make sure it doesn't head into the wrong path. I'm back…So I need to make sure they're relationship is stable, now more than ever.'

Selina was on her phone, and being the slowest and taking her time eating her own food. She made sure to message Hollie about her needing to be away from the orphanage for sometime and to have the other employee's hold down the fort till she can come back. She wasn't gonna leave anytime soon with how her ankle still needed some time to heal from getting shot. More than that, she couldn't help but look at Barbara, having her back turned from everyone just like Selina's husband doing the same. A small frown came upon her when being reminded of Barbara's ever present fear for her husband, 'Long time ago she was the one to back Bruce no matter what happened, the one that took his side even if others wouldn't agree. How time has changed in a sad way…If there's anything I can do, it's to make sure to keep Bruce in check, but also take the time too…Somehow get Barbara out of this funk. Not just the whole subject of her feelings against Bruce, everyone seems to have a problem with Bruce whether they'll admit it or not,' her shamrock eyes drifted to Peter, 'Even Peter. Unlike everyone, he's the only one that hadn't outright talked about his issues with Bruce. Then again, everyone is aware of the many issues he and Bruce had for years. While things between them got better, I feel what happened a year ago might've brought back some problems. Only that…Peter is just burying it to focus on the larger things. And some point…He'll explode on Bruce,' again, her eyes move, towards to Dick and Jason, 'Just like these two who ended being held back by firecracker and her hubby,' bringing up Cassandra also had her looking at her, 'Can't forget about her…Firecracker still needs to sort out her issues with Bruce, one way or another. Especially now, they're gonna be around one another more than before. At least I'm not alone when it comes to handling everyone,' she noted in her thoughts as she briefly looked at Tim and Stephanie who were near her, 'Those two would help me make sure everyone is in check. Because we all have a long road ahead to get each other sorted out.'

Just as he aggressively ate, Jason thoughts danced between anger and irritation, 'How in the hell did they find the cave? Who else knew about that place? Not to mention why Talia? Why in Wonder City where her family once built the laz-' Jason stopped eating, a thought quickly came to his head of why they took Talia and made a base in what once was Wonder City, 'No…No way they were able to bring back the Lazarus pit. And even so,' Jason began stuffing himself with more food, 'Who the hell else would they want to resurrect?! They have everything in their power to try to take control of Gotham, and likely more if we squash a few of them. They can't worry about other heroes because like it or not, they are too busy dealing with their own important matters to worry about Gotham,' Jason scoffed, his eyes tighten as his thoughts bounce to another topic, 'Every time Gotham is in a position like this, no other hero is to be found,' his eyes went up to Bruce, before quickly going back to his food, 'It's always been him having to deal with Gotham threats. How could having friends in high places mean anything when they don't show up?' Then Jason did the same to Peter, 'Parker is in the same bracket. He of all people was so hell bent on focusing on doing his own thing by himself because he once despised the help. The only help he would ever had was us…Or Gwen, not the League or even the Titans,' Jason frowned when his brain went to the once lively women that had not only Peter's back, but his, '...He still hasn't told me much about what happened to her other than Goblin caused her death. And from the years of training with Bruce, hell, years of getting more training from Talia, and even my own studies into trying to crack how she'd really died,' Jason eyes looked up to Peter again, who in turn looked at him as their eye made contact with one another, 'He deflected too much, to the point it makes me wonder what really happened,' just as easily their eyes lock on one another, it focus back on their food, 'And I never bother to ask others because I know damn well, they respect Peter to let him tell that story…Yet, I knew her better than most here! Why the hell should I be left out on what happened to Gwen?!' He shut his eyes for a second, grabbing more food and downing his water as if it was liquor.

Drowning out the furious thoughts bumbling in his head, '..Or maybe I'm just afraid to know what happened that day, which is why I never dig as much as I should've…'

Dick tried to enjoy the food he was eating, trying to enjoy the fact that since, not only being away from Gotham, that he can finally be around everyone once more. Or at least almost since Alfred was still in a position he wished he could've stopped from happening. It didn't help with not being able to help Alfred, the memories of Lucius and his son who had contributed so much into helping everyone in Belfry didn't shy away from Dick's line of thinking. These past days, month even, the word uselessness has become more and more closer to relate too, 'I thought by using venom it could make up for what I lost. I knew the dangers of course, hell I've seen how it affected others, but I just thought….Thought I was more than what I was. Stronger, strong enough that I can protect everyone. Yet here I am, not able to protect Alfred just like how I couldn't protect Lucius or his son from Joker…How I promise Lucius I would,' Dick chewing stop as he played with the food in his bowl. Unlike the rest, his own depressing thoughts were overcoming his need to nourish himself with food, '...I'm supposed to be better yet…I failed to be better in the end… The worst part is, I hurt everyone here for what I've done,' he went back to eating, slower, as his eyes squinted from the sudden jolt of pain coursing through his body. He let out a small groan, holding back the urge let out an audible groan, but he held it in as soon as the pain came and went, '...I can feel it. My body needs venom…Unlike regular drugs, the side effect of becoming clean will be…Harsher, and this is only the beginning,' Dick looks up, his eyes roaming to everyone around him. Seeing all of them, knowing how much his condition must've affected him, even if some don't display their feeling on the matter, he knows they're hurt because of it, '...I have to get clean, not just for me, not just for them, but also…For Koriand'r,' Dick once more focus on eating, 'God knows she won't like what I've done…And I'm not sure if our relationship will last this time because I'll hurt her again, and again, and again…' Dick couldn't sulk, not at what he had done, but has done as well in the past involving his relationship with Koriand'r, 'I'll just have to hope for the best, is all I can do, and is all we can do at the moment.'

Unlike her pears, Barbara wasn't eating as much as her focus was on her computer. Her computer had multiple tabs open, trying to use every resource the Belfry had to speed up the processing sample of what little they had of Carnage symbiote, 'I sure hope Peter is right,' Her eyes drifted the frozen piece of Kasady symbiote that was in a jar and linked up to the Belfry's computer system, 'Just looking at it how inactive it is makes my own skin crawl. It doesn't help that I'm reminded of the same blacker version that Peter once wore a year ago,' her eyes then drifted to the bell in front of her, cracked in the middle, ready to break if it took another strong force, yet still was held on top with the strong wiring Peter and Tim set up, 'To think we're back here where Peter stormed the place and took off the symbiote with the usage of this bell. I'm still surprised with how much stronger he was in that suit he didn't bring down the place or the bell itself,' she took off her glasses for a second, rubbing away the tiredness from staying up for what felt like forever, 'I want sleep…But then I'll wake myself up easily knowing there's more to be done. I don't know how long it's gonna take for Ted to come over to Gotham which is why I had Peter grab some stuff from the clocktower to make things go a bit more faster. With how busy Ted is with dealing with his company, helping Star Labs, Justice Society, and Justice League just to name a few, he can't leave those jobs empty handed, and I can't hope that he'll show up in an instance to help us. We need faster cpu, solid state drives, gpu's, just about anything that can make these computer's faster just like the Bat computer once was. Everything here is at least a few years behind that Peter and Tim helped move out the cave, and even with additional materials from the clocktower, there's still things gonna slow down the progress,' that's when Barbara looked at the time at the corner of the monitor, it read 9 am, almost reaching 10, 'Time is ticking and ticking. And we need some type of plan, anything to take these people down. But right now…It's quiet, too quiet for my liking,' sighing under her breath, she would look to get some food inside her that hopefully, it could allow her to stop stressing, 'Just…Have faith Babs, it worked out so far in the years helping everyone in Gotham. So it'll help now…' a light scoff with a small smirk crossed her face, 'Even when you're not here, everything you taught me is like you're still helping us all dad. Only wish you could be here to help out GCPD in their time of need. I can only hope Dewolff is holding it down the best she can while we look for ways to take down these anarchists.'

Compared to most in her family, Cassandra tried to keep her own thoughts to a minimum. She rather train, prepare for what's to come, but she knows now that it isn't just Peter who would stop her from that. Everyone's here, everyone that's alive that matters in Cassandra's heart is here. She can't be stubborn to ignore the rest of her body needs all the rest it can get. Since now Gotham is in a crisis against multiple threats, she's been pushing her body to do what needs to be done. She can't no longer deny how her body aches for this, how she dreamt and wanted this exact moment to happen. It still makes her feel disgusted since it reminded her too much of her mother, a person she admitted that she never wanted to be, and fears that she will when push comes to shove. Deep down, it's why she struggles, has struggled to be normal like Peter, who is right beside her. Every now and again she checks on Peter; checking to see how he's doing, Is he breathing alright? Is his body healing from holding up a train of all things? Is any part of his bone about to break? She worries so much for him even if he's the strongest compared to the rest of the Bat family. Some part of her, deep down inside her, one that lies beside her disgusting feeling of moving exactly like her assassin parents, wonders why she cares so much for Peter? That compared to everyone else, she cares very deeply for him, more than anyone she grew to know. Was it because from the first time she met him, got to know him, she saw herself in him? Was it because with how much he has lost, he's still standing strong? Was it because no matter the situation, even if he's scared, he won't run away when people, the world, needs saving?

Or was it simply because she loves him?

That last train of thought made her heart skip a beat, making her sit up a little and stop eating as her eyes widened. Love. It's something she's familiar with thanks to finding her family. And yes, she loves Peter, but what struck a nerve in her heart was one thing, '..I never told him that…Have I?' She glanced at him, his shoulder leaning on her just as much as their legs, 'I know I love him…Love all that he is…But I never told him…That,' It wasn't because she didn't want too, nor the timing of it, but it was just something that between the two, they never felt the need to tell one another that. They love each other by showing it. But for some reason, Cassandra didn't like that now. For the first time, she was able to think more about her relationship with Peter, think about the impact she has on him and him have on her. She's able to for once just sit, eat, and now, think about their relationship instead of just being happy with what they have, '...I want to say it…' Because she's looking at Peter, who's long hair was hiding a bit of his expression, therefore, blocking his eye view to her, her eating halted for a moment, '...Tell him how much…I love him…Tell him…I loved him when I…First saw him….Tell him…He means the world….To me….That I want to be strong….Like him….Strong enough….To be a mother….Not my mother...To be a…Wife….To be his one….And only….I want to tell him….Not by showing…But saying….That I love him…' Her hand grazed his hair, letting it flow behind his ear, and gaining his attention, '...I want to say it…But when the time is right…'

Peter would wipe the bit of crumbs from his mouth as he looked into the eyes of his girlfriend. He recognizes that look, the look of how both somber and happy she is when staring at him. She wouldn't smile when doing this, and she held a long gaze as she watched him, studying him with a bit of her head tilting. If it was anyone who didn't know Cassandra like Peter, they would call her out on being creepy from staring that long without blinking. But Peter knows her, and it's why he kissed her cheeks, her forehead, nose, and then lips. In doing so, it got her to giggle from the ticklish gesture his lips presented on her face, and snuggle just a bit more closer into him as they both went back to eating. It's here where Peter found his own self smiling, being head over heels for the girl beside him. Being around her made his mind be at ease, but he knows he can't be too at ease seeing as Mary Jane and now Felicia was in dire trouble. Thinking about those two made his smile lessen, 'I somehow knew Kasady was gonna target the people I love, but I didn't think he would find Felicia of all people. She left Gotham, grew tired of it, and not to mention, Selina and I as well. I had a few hunches of where she could've been, but she kept her footprints clean enough for me not to track her location, and so I respected that. For her to be in this position meant he not only had help, but very much looked to put me in a situation for his little game. I have to figure out where they're at, I can't afford to lose them, not like how I lost…Gwen,' Peter can feel his stomach twist and turn of the irony that another psychotic person willing to take away the people he cares so much for. He has indeed crossed that bridge before, time and time again. And like before he will prevail, 'I'm not alone. Not like before,' this is when Peter had to take in the moment, the people he has around him to remind himself, 'I'm not alone in this, and I'm gonna need all the help I can get to save them both and to protect Gotham. And since everyone's here, it's time I motion a plan I have in mind.'

Peter would took a breath in and out, his eyes close, and open as he used his fork to make a small noise with his cup that grab everyone's attention, "Not to ruin everyone's joyful meal thanks to Bruce-"

"You are by the way," Jason said, getting his leg kicked by Stephanie which in turn made him glared at her briefly.

Peter's only response was an eyeroll as he stood up to continue the plan he had been thinking about since he started eating, "Anyways, I started thinking about how we can handle these two individual threats, and make sure we save the three hostages with time to spare. Firstly, Kasady. He didn't so much give anything where to start to find Mary Jane and Felicia, wanting me to think outside the box to find the missing puzzle pieces."

"Sounds to me he's taking a page off of Riddler's book," Tim suggested.

"Exactly, as everyone knows, Nigma would give off elusive riddles and leave behind…Annoying trophies too," a collective small groan and scoffed went around the room, none of the Bat family were particularly happy to remember those times Riddler placed his own question mark trophies all around Gotham for his amusements that involved endangering innocent people, "That's when I started thinking he must've leave behind clues, all link to me. From the research Alfred did, thank god he made sure to prepare for the worst," Peter would move, hop somewhere more into the back of the upper level. Everyone peered to see where he went and could hear little noises of things moving left and right, before he came back with an old, dusty drawing board and marker.

Planting in front of everyone made some of them cough and cover their face, "A Little heads up Pete? We all don't have your danger senses," Selina commented.

"Uh…Sorry?" He sheepishly said as he scratched behind his head. Peter then used his maker to draw more of a map of sorts that involved the small dose of research Alfred did for himself when looking into Kasady, "Alfred made note of a few integral places that Kasady held his recruitment. Beyond the Gotham sewers, My old apartment with my Aunt and Uncle was one of them, few of my older old apartments I rented, Divinity church where my Aunt use to go too, one of Norman's old factory that replaced ace chemicals, and just in case, Gotham university," just like the web he created and spins on a daily, Peter connected each of these specific location in the center where he had his name in place.

Barbara's ears perked when he mentions their old college, "Why GU? Kasady can't do much in that location. Bruce made sure to have the university have better protection ever since the Joker and green goblin's attempt at blowing it up years ago when you were attending."

"True, but I wouldn't hold the fact Kasady probably slipped something there. A clue or something," Peter added, "And as much as I want to take part in this investigation," Peter put the cap back on the marker as he turned to the bat family, his family, "I can't afford to do it, not when the Arkham Knight is at large, and at the height of whatever power they feel they have right now."

"You're going to fight them," Cassandra said, catching on quickly to what Peter is presenting.

Peter nodded, "They know how strong, fast, and how precise I am thanks to my abilities. I cover from top to bottom of Gotham in much quicker space, and therefore, they only ever operated when I'm not in action-"

"But distracted by Kasady," Tim also caught on as well, "I also have been thinking since Steph and I are still rusty in terms of combat experience, it's better we look into finding Mary Jane and Felicia."

"But it wouldn't be enough with how much ground that still needs covering," Barbara pointed out, "If I could, I would take part into this bu-"

"Say no more Barbara," Dick voice came about in the conversation, "I think I, no should, take part in this. My wing jet's can help get to some of those places in a breeze. Luckily this place has enough power to give it fuel when I find the location of the two hostages."

"You sure Dick? You don'-"

"I'm fine, please," Dick looked around his circle of friends, circle of trust, "Let me do this, let me be useful regardless how you all feel about my usage of venom."

No one told him no, instead the room was quiet. And yet Dick knew the answer they were giving him. Obviously, they were unsure if it was the right move with his physical and mental condition coming into question, but they need the help and can't do this without the increase in numbers, "No venom," Bruce said, "You do this, you can't use venom, only what's up here," he tapped the side of his forehead to remind Dick's greatest utility.

Something Bruce felt he forgot through the usage of venom.

"And that leaves us, the heavy hitters huh?" Jason spoke, "Parker, Cain, and me right? We go in guns blazing to take down this wannabe Batman, and save the bitch that needs saving," Jason then found himself grinning, "Solid plan," then he quickly frowned, "But who's to say they don't have a countermeasure against you Parker? This Arkham Knight isn't dumb and likely has something for you."

Peter would find himself shrugging, "We won't know till we find out right?"

Jason was looking to answer back with something, a comment with the way Peter brushes it off with his utter confidence and ballsy take. Something Jason knows it's common for how Peter approaches a particular problem that's unknown to him. But he simply scoffed, looked away, and kept eating his food till he was just about finished.

"I'll also help in finding Ms. Watson and Hardy," everyone's gaze suddenly turned to Bruce who had his fingers by temple when studying the approach for Peter's plan, "Dick has the sky while Tim and Stephanie can cover the streets of course, but another assist would be a step in the right direction. And this would help me be useful then put myself in a position where… I would fight."

"You forgotten you got shot too Bruce?" Selina put into question of his physical, "Hell, I know for sure my ankle is still fucked from getting shot. You can't pus-"

"Selina," he moved his chair to her, letting both his hands clap onto her one hand, "I'll be fine, I'm too stubborn to die."

"...You know you have terrible timing in your sense of humor right?" Selina said, raising her eyebrow.

Bruce pout, a pout that Selina love's seeing every now and again, "I do not."

"You do honey."

"I agree with Selina," Stephanie said.

"Bruce you can't deny how dry it has become over the years," Tim added

"Point Dexter has a point there," Jason replied, "Even Parker has better timing."

"Hey I don't like the insinuation, angry bird," Peter commented.

"While Bruce jokes are dry, yours is cheesy as they come Peter," now Barbara switches the topic to Peter.

"Now hold on! We were just talking about Bruce here!"

Cassandra giggled, "You're a goof."

"Casssss!"

"Hey if your girlfriend is calling you a cornball, then there's no winning here, Peter," Dick said, his own voice becoming a bit lighter due to the change in conversation.

"And Cassandra is never wrong! Up top!" Cassandra gave Stephanie a high five.

Peter sat back down, his shoulder slumping at being vocally put down for his own sense of humor, "But we were just talking about Bruce…."

A light grin was on Bruce's face, "If I go down, you go down with me Peter."

"So it seems," in turn, Cassandra kissed Peter on the cheek, "That doesn't help Cass."

She didn't care, as she got to snuggle up to Peter regardless of his mopiness. With everybody comfortable, plan's sorted out.

It will soon be time to take action.

---

Dewolff took a sip of her coffee in the elevator she was in, 'Really could use a cigarette for times like this,' she mentioned to herself, 'It's been non stop of making sure everyone is on their ass in maintaining the safety of Gotham. Hope Spider puts that symbiote to good use and hope everything is good on his end. Can't believe the Knight's own forces were able to do that amount of damage to their own headquarters so easy,' noting that only unnerve her that the hot coffee was the only thing grounding her in reality instead of panicking, 'And then they took that woman who was a well known terrorist, Al Ghul as hostage? Then add to Carnage taking two hostages too?' Dewolff sighed and shook her head, 'I tried lending a hand, but the Spider wanted every cop to focus on Gotham and they can focus on hostages and those two monster's.'

Her job was to preserve order in the city, which was easy said and done, but it wasn't. Everyday means something new will happen, every year means something terrible will come. And every time she wears the badge on her means she can't run, and must always everyone she can. Right now, she just came out from an elevator walking down a huge apartment complex that resided in Miagani island, 'Jeez, wish I get paid this much for the things I've done. Tax is a bitch, and the government can do better into paying us cops for being there for everyone,' Dewolff noted to herself as from a window afar, she had a good view of the entire city block of Upper East Side, and as well as Old Gotham from afar, 'But who am I to complain? Never was in it for the money, but to help others.'

'Ok...Now where's her apartment...Apartment 5B, 5B….' Her fern eyes spotted Apartment 5B, and rang the bell. It only took a second for none other than Vicki Vale to open up the door. Dewolff tilted her head at the oddity of seeing Vicki's red hair all over the place, clothes ragged on her, and the fact she can tell she got no sleep, "Ms. Vale I told you to get rest instead of ending up like crap."

"Just get in already!" Vicki left the door open wide for Dewolff. She would've groaned or something along the lines at her advice being ignored by one of Gotham's finest reporters, but what can she do? In turn, absolutely nothing but corporate with her for the time being. Entering Vicki's home, Dewollff can easily describe it as a lonely penthouse that was beautiful to look at but not something to live in by themselves. It had plenty of rooms for more than one person, a skyline window almost similar to the outside of Vicki's home, but made spherical instead of vertical. She had the obvious things like kitchen and its resources, couches, a living room with a high quality tv, hell, a space for her workout such as treadmill and weights, 'Even if coming from neighborhoods such as Old Gotham, I still wonder why all these rich people live so lavishly, and so alone at the same time,' Dewolff said in her own thoughts, 'Can't see myself living this large, ever. Hell, even Spider-Man doesn't live this large from the very few times I've been in his apartment to sort out his injuries.'

Dewolff's mind couldn't help but stroll a little bit to memory lane involving Spider-Man. Over the years she grew close to him, helped him get his bearings when he felt he was responsible for her former partner, George Stacy's passing. And she especially made sure to keep his head on straight when things were at their worst, and he also did the same for her. But as soon as the small bit of memory came along, it immediately disappeared when she saw a few other people and a variety of other things in the living room. One was two people she recognized, Robbie Robertson and Ben Urch. Second was that both people were looking at a bunch of sticky notes, pictures, news articles, all lined up to one another on the tv itself that connected like a web pattern. Thirdly, while it had its fair share of Kasady and Shriek, there was more of a focus on the Arkham Knight of all things, and what little footage they had of them while corresponding to other people that had question marks connecting to the anarchist. Fourth was that this is most likely what Vicki has been up to since getting threatened by a psychopath and his entourage.

Commissioner Dewolff knows people deal with these types of trauma differently, she with her panic attacks, and Vicki, basically staying up for 24 hrs and distract herself with what she's good at, journalism at its finest, "Jesus Vicki…" Dewolff turned back to Vicki who was getting something to drink in the kitchen, "Anyone else would call you nuts for doing this after what you've been through."

"I know I know," Vicki said as she poured herself what seemed like a small dosage of wine in her glass cup, "I heard it from my two coworkers," she pointed to Robbie and Ben.

"Honestly I don't know how you do it Vicki. Hell, my wife told me to stay far away from this with all that's been going on as of late," Robbie mentioned while massaging his temple, "But I can't ignore something like this."

"Us reporters can't just sit by knowing there's work to be done in Gotham. What happened in the Bugle and how that witch got into our heads to hurt Spider-Man…?" Ben found himself frowning that Dewolff got a glimpse of as his focus on was on the tv, "..It doesn't make me feel comfortable knowing I had some part into hurting him…Felt like this woman, dug deep into the things I don't think about or wanna think about, and brought up to the surface."

"Like pulling out the worst traits in who you are, but intensifying it a thousand fold?" Dewolff questioned. Both Ben and Robbie nodded in response, "Most of the victims that I've had time to question said similar things. Whatever Frances, or accurately, Shriek powers are, seems to be similar to when Wonder Woman's rogue, Cerce, popped here to make some mess years ago."

Vicki scoffed as she came into the living room, giving Robbie and Ben some water to drink as she did for herself, "Because she felt insecure by getting beaten up by Batman of all people. Anyways, you know my colleagues here."

"Robbie Robertson. Can't forget what you did to put Tombstone away," Dewolff noted.

He shrugs, "And somehow some way, I had good people get me out in prison. It was the right move then to stay in fear of what he could've done. And heck, he's supposedly turned a new leaf."

"Mhm," Dewolff turned to Ben, "And Ben Urch who was so hell bent on taking down Wilson Fisk."

"And now he's dead by the hands of this person," Ben pointed to the picture of the Arkham Knight, taken from their first appearance in Wayne's tower, "So far, the only thing we've fished up was some stuff in Venezuela. Recruits for special arms defense units with militarized experience only."

"Anything further would mean hopping on the dark web," Vicki added, "To which, I don't have a software to keep my place from being tracked by weirdos. We know a lot about Carnage and his partner, anymore info would be coming from the heroes."

"Meaning you want to dig on the Knight," Dewolff sighed, putting her cup of coffee on the nearby table, "My team is stomp on their identity, except one thing," her arms crossed, "The people they recruited were at one point in the Asylum and blackgate. Either got off being sane, or good behavior. Some of the other recruits that are in our custody didn't talk, like a vow of silence, and others were trained in ways to avoid our questions. This Arkham Knight seemed to have deep pockets and people in high places."

"You mentioned some of those people were in the Asylum. Wouldn't that mean Hugo Strange authorized their leave? Same goes for Michael Lane, who runs black gate?" Robbie said.

"But there's the catcher on Strange," Vicki hopped in before Dewolff could say anything, "He hasn't been seen unless he's supposed to be interviewed by whoever, or to announce what goes on in the Asylum. In Fact, he hasn't been as active since Arkham City almost 6 years ago."

"Sad thing is, there was enough evidence to plead his innocence that he was manipulated by Talia's own father too," Dewolff's eyes landed on a particular character, one that has certain lines pointing to Arkham Knight, "Carlie Cooper…"

"She's a person of interest. I did some digging, had a brief talk with her that allowed me to get her number, but something about her," Vicki shook her head, drinking her water that she now started taking a sip, "She studied under Dr. Young, gets a hand picked to help more in the Asylum, and the worst part is, there's nothing more about her."

"We even ran any known ID on our end to see what else we can get a dig on her," Robbie inputted, "Everything from driver licensee, education, jobs she's worked, seemed to be clear except whatever birth certificate she has, doesn't seem it originated from her."

Dewolff eyebrows raised, "Like it belongs to someone else?"

"Apparently," Ben gestured to a picture of Carlie's birth certificate that had been printed out, "Everything here seems legit, seems that is, but there's little footprints we found that seemed like Carlie's birth certificate belong to someone else. We couldn't find out because we ran into a dead end that pointed back to her, however what little we found can't truly be linked back to her because the serial number here," he pointed to the top right of the paper, "Don't match up anywhere else that would go back to Doctor Cooper. Basically everything is legit beside the serial number."

Dewolff took a step forward, her eyes squinting as she took a good look at a photo of Carlie Cooper with Hugo Strange. Hugo age was showing from his wrinkles, white beard, and no amount of hair. But somehow, it was Hugo after all, yet Carlie was off, very off in terms of appearance that Dewolff mind was deducting, 'Her pupils are tiny, as if she's wearing contact. But why would she wear contacts when she has glasses on? Then it's her face, the skin doesn't match as much compared to the neck, hell, her hands are the same way. She's putting makeup on to hide something. And then it's her hair, absorbing more light then it should when in reality, a more natural hair would reflect more off the light.'

Through this small look from a picture alone, Dewolff deduced that Vicki, Robbie, and Ben were onto something, "You're right on the idea that whoever she is? Just appeared out of thin air. From this one photo, she's wearing contacts, has way too much make up in certain parts of her body, and her hair dyed. Sure, nowadays people want to look appropriate in public, but why wear contacts when you have glasses? To change the color of your eyes? Why put that much makeup on? Some scars can't be hidden so easily, and dying the hair? Again, it could be just me, but the fact there's not much known about her, whatever you all just found, and Hugo brought her up to help manage Arkham?" Dewolff looked at the trio reporters, "She is a person of interest, nothing like this can be a coincidence cause even I only knew about her a whole year ago at best and I didn't pay no mind. Knowing damn well I should've known," Dewolff then grabbed a marker, "I'm gonna have my people dig on what they can get on her. Someone needs to track her schedule, look into anyone who knows of her, and learn more about her one on one," Dewolff wrote down near Cooper.

"I'll check her schedule," Ben said.

"I'll see if anyone knows of her," Robbie also said.

"I'll see if she's available for a jogging session," Vicki finally added.

"And please, if she is indeed the Arkham Knight, she would be three steps ahead of us. We have to presume that she's busy with her victory over the Spider and the Bat family. If so, this could be our shot at dismantling the Knight's resources from the inside out. So everyone, heads down, low profile, and don't do anything stupid."

Vicki noted she was looking at her, pouting at the intention, "Why are you looking at me like that?"

Dewolff's answer was an eye roll at the obvious.

---

Dick flew to North Gotham, specifically to the borough that was Otisburg. He landed on the fire escape that was supposed to be where Peter used to live. He pressed the side of his blue domino mask that allowed him to see through the apartment building. He calls it his own night vision, a counter to what some of the Bat family uses as detective mode. It can not only see people living and moving from different sections of the apartment building, but also has radar technology to track movement. At first glance he hoped it would be fine, but then he saw bodies, dead bodies. His eyes focus on the adults sitting on a couch and what seemed like two teenagers in their bedroom.

Dick felt himself scowling, 'How many more have to die to get to Peter? It's one thing when it's adults, but teenager's too…?' Before he opens the window, he notices a red thin line that his night vision showcases as something that will trigger once he enters. With his fingers, he traced where it was coming from, but only noted that it was connected to the speaker, 'Either I'm walking into a death trap… Or Carnage wants Peter to hear something.'

He briefly used his gauntlet to make sure there weren't any surprises, scanning the nearby room to where he gladly found nothing. He opens the window with ease, and enters only to fall on the ground due to a sudden sharp pain coursing through his body, "AHH…!" Dick groaned, feeling every ounce of his body in such pain like he was getting stabbed over and over again, "Gah…" His hands scramble to his belt on waist, inside the compartment were pills involving venom he still had on him.

He was just about to take it, to ease the pain, be damned of it all because he wanted the pain to stop, "You made it Spider!" He heard Kasady come through from a nearby speaker and made Dick stop what he was doing. He felt the pain, the pain coursing him in his body, egging him for more venom, telling him in reality without venom, he'll feel all the pain that came from almost dying by Joker's hand. Yet he tightened his fist, putting the pills back in his compartment as he punched the floor to give him a bit of an edge to power through the pain he was feeling, trusting it'll go away as he turned to hear Kasady talking, "Took you long enough. But that's just you isn't? Often late to important things, am I right?" Dick breathes in and out, his fist still tightening as he slowly forces himself up while dealing with the pain.

He was only partially successful, his knee's dropping to the floor as his eyes caught the two parent's, dead in front of him as they sat on a couch. They were holding hands, even when they're widen eyes held dry blood in terror, their mouths were open jus as their neck were slice through, letting their own blood drip down to the clothes they wore, to the couch and floor they once owned, "Anywho, so this was the place you grew up huh? Your Aunt and Uncle taking care of you while you dreamt of big things with that brain of yours. And that girlfriend of yours is always coming over to help with your loneliness." Dick double takes on the two dead people, both who appeared to have wrinkles and gray hair. It begged the question if they were really living in this apartment, that Kasady instead killed two random people, probably two other teenagers in the bedroom just to paint a picture.

A picture that was supposed to be a reflection of Peter's younger years. With the pain slowly going away, Dick with a great roar pushed himself off the floor. He can't afford to stay down, not when people need him right now, "I wonder if you still feel lonely, knowing that the people that were your family are no longer around. Hell…I wonder if the Bat and his family treat you like family."

"We do..Always have," Dick muttered to himself, taking a look around in the room if he can find anything that can lead to Mary Jane and Felicia.

"It's also ironic that you have a Spider family of sorts! But from what I gather, you push them away because they were either everything you want to be, everything you didn't want to be, or in general, trying to live up to your legacy you created for 12 years. Or actually, it's because they pulled you away from your dead Aunt, or were you so busy to not see her passing away? That's something I never found out and maybe I'll eventually find out. But enough about that topic, you'll find me rambling more about that in person. Right now, you're here, your old home, that has changed due to Gotham changing. You notice the apartment complex itself is bigger, better, and cleaner than it used to be no?"

While Dick didn't pay attention to it until now, he noticed that Peter's old apartment looked to be relatively clean, 'From what I remember, the walls were weak, cracks all over the place, and the flooring made a lot of noise. Now? I see and feel none of that,' Dick observed, 'What is your point Kasady? Where are you leading with this?' Dick asks himself as his fingers pass along the walls, letting his eyes and mind try to figure out what Kasady is up to in this pre-recorded conversation.

"Because of you! Because of Batman! And his family! But I wonder, if you ever were happy with change? If you were happy knowing the fact that everything you knew, everything you love, will change because of who you had become. I wonder if your parents were alive, and they made Queens work for you, would you still be the same person you are? Hell, your Aunt moved back there after Gotham's earthquake, and I wonder if she was ever happy knowing you were responsible for your Uncle's death? Those things change because of you."

Dick gritted his teeth, a low blow that seemed like all types of villains would use against him if given a chance. He moved into the room that had the two dead teenagers, holding each other, while also holding either both of their hearts, or their own hearts. Dick looked away, disgusted of what Kasady had done, 'They're fucking kids….KIDS!' He slammed his fist to a nearby wall, 'They had no part in this!'

"All that change is why everyone either ran away from you, or you pushed away because of change. Like George Stacy's daughter, who likely still had heart for you just as you did for. And that begs the question, does Batwomen know that deep down, you still hold a candle to her? Or…Do you even know that all the girls you were with after your soulmate death were because you couldn't protect her, and so, you go around girls that can protect themselves. And that? In itself, makes you a lonely man who doesn't want weakness around him. A man who thrives on the strong and can't stomach the weak."

Dick was glad his communication system wasn't online yet for Peter or Cassandra to hear that. Dick could only imagine how much this would affect the two of them and it's better that they didn't hear that. They're in what seems like a better state than a few weeks ago, and for Kasady to know how to dig and twist the knife to push Peter to the edge. It's crazy cause Dick could feel his own rage boiling, as if he was Peter in this scenario. But that's probably the venom still in his vain, his mind egging to lash out. But Dick has to breathe, close his eyes and breathe, remembering what Bruce told him, 'Use your head, not your fist..'

"It's twisted, no one knows that Spider-Man came from here. From the gadgets to the costume, Spider-Man was born in North Gotham where it was always a shit place to live here. But I guess that's why I admire you, the humble beginnings in a way. No hero is like you, and yet, very few heroes went through what you did at a young age. And with all that, you still want to be a hero. You'll see my side, you'll be a part of us, you'll have a real family, and you won't be alone. Time's ticking, so when does the clock."

Dick eyebrow raised, "When does the clock stop…?" He would need to get a hold of commissioner Dewolff to report the dead body. And It's then he hears his communication line pinging in his ear. He tapped it, "I got a riddle, time's ticking, so when does the clock stop?"

---

Several minutes before Dick's riddle

Stephanie was on her motorcycle that she calls the ricochet, one that was surprisingly still left in the Belfry and still functional to be used. It was purple and black, sleek and mobile that allowed her to cut corners with ease, similar to Cassandra's bike, but unlike Cassandra's or any other motorcycle design by the Bat family, this was at one point simply designed to get in and get out of dangerous positions. But as time went on before her year long hiatus, it got upgrades to do more and be more. Stephanie was inside the pod, lying flat and comfortable as she guided herself through Gotham.

She won't lie how much she misses the adrenaline feeling of going high speed in her ricochet, but she also won't lie that she should've stretched more before being occupied in the small space, 'Either it's just me, or I gain some weight to be cramped in here!' She thought to herself, 'Guess this what happens when gaining more mass and muscle. It was my way of trying to be different from Cassandra and Barbara. I tried doing this when I was Batgirl but I didn't have the time to put in the effort with all that happened last year. I only ever became Batgirl because Cassandra wanted me to, cause at that time, she needed to move past that mantle as she no longer felt it was her own anymore. And to keep the legacy alive, I decided to become Batgirl. Even now, I look back at seeing the steps I took were so similar to Barbara in how she use to operate as Batgirl and its cause she mentor me like hell back in those days...But since then, after last year, and now coming back, I went back to being an identity I carve for myself, that being Spoiler.'

Stephanie Spoiler costume was a similar color scheme as her bike, had a purple hoodie on, a cape draped over shoulder that lacks the gliding function that most other Bat's have, wearing reinforced armor from chest to legs, had a belt on for her gadgets, and a half mask that covered her bottom face. She decided to keep the few aesthetics from her Batgirl time, instead of going full on retro.

Her first spot she had to check was Alfred's last investigation, which was Divinity church. Stephanie briefly saw Dick in the air before she went her own way, seeing as that Otisburg was the area Peter use to grew up in, 'Ironic how Peter, Bruce, Selina, and Jason grew up in the more dangerous neighborhood yet I didn't, and somehow, we all suffer trauma at childhood that had a part to play in who we are,' Stephanie found herself frowning upon thinking about her childhood, 'Growing up with a father who was a crook known as Cluemaster only enable people like Tim to not trust me first when they got to know me. And while my mother tried protecting me, I ended up getting mixed up in dangerous situations so I could stop my father. Hilarious that I'm the opposite of him, and yet I ended up doing dangerous crap as he had done. Guess there are things that run deep in the family even with how much you wanna be different.'

But for better or worse, there has to be a chance to break a cycle, something Stephanie had to do in her book, and hopefully, she did, for better or for worse.

She made it to Divinity church, pushing a button that let her launch into the air, where she then quickly fired a grapnel launch from her own gadget she took out. She would climb up to the tip top of the church where she held her balance with the ball of her feet on the cross. It's here where she used one of Peter's drones that she controlled through her gauntlet to scan the inside of the entire building to see if there were any apparent threats that were waiting for her. Luckily for her, the only thing was a red sensor that wouldn't trigger anything dangerous, but something linked to a recorder. It didn't help that she saw dead bodies, a lot of dead bodies that were once people who put their faith in god hands, only to die and not be saved by him, 'I hope their in heaven, where they can find peace,' Stephanie even did a little prayer, 'Name of the father, son, holy spirit, amen..'

She was once not a believer in god, but after her near death experience from Joker, it was like she knew there was a god above. He was watching down on her and her family, protecting and sheltering them from the wickedness in the world. She had to believe that, believe that she only survived because of god and timing. Cassandra saved her, but she also felt god give her time necessary to save not only her, but the man she loved.

And she had to do right by him. She had to make sure this wickedness in Gotham must be stopped.

She leapt down to the gargoyle, in the right height, she would flip herself, launching her grapnel hook to the church, and then use that momentum to break through the glass and into the church. She made sure to roll to stop her fall, impressing herself while making sure nothing was broken, 'Looks like I still got it. And I'm sorry Jesus, for breaking a church glass..'

"Spider….Spider…" Kasady's voice would come out from a nearby recorder, one near the piano, and under a man being hung like Jesus Christ on a cross. Stephanie also made sure to record everything he was saying, just in case they would need it later, "Sometimes the memories of this symbiote is….Puzzling…Memories from my father, Eddie as you know him…It's more scattered than clear. I had to piece it together by myself when they first created this symbiote, more so, force Eddie to create it."

Stephanie couldn't help but be shocked at what she heard, 'They…Torture another person, to create this monstrosity..? All to cure someone for their long term illness..? That's…Cruel!' They were most likely Ravenscroft as Peter filled her and Tim in. With this new found information, Stephanie wonder what else ravencroft had done to the likes of Kasady, Eddie, and Frances, or whoever else was part of that facility, "But one thing that was clear, other than my father voice of being miserable, hating you, hating everything you are…Was your voice, calling out to him, god, god, and god," He continued on just as Stephanie walked closer, observing the area around her. The church was empty, and the smell of the dead only made her face scrunched up because of it, "You always questioned him, wondering if he'll ever make the pain stop, wondering why he always torture's you, how that no matter what you've gone through, your life never eases up just for a bit longer, till everything come's crashing down. Yet why do you still call to him? Praying for the good times to come then the bad? Is it because of your Aunt? From what I gather, she was catholic, always coming to this church, especially when death ran around her like a ring around the rosy hehehe. But I get it, she was important to you, the last living relative since your parents were gone from your inception, and your Uncle died because of your selfishness."

Stephanie herself felt bothered, angry, with how Kasady talked high and mighty as if he knew Peter like that, 'What gives him the right to talk like that?! He doesn't know a thing about him! If he truly thinks he can break him then he is so wrong,' yet her thoughts falter, knowing another person with the same kind of willpower like him but he broke.

And that worries Stephanie that Peter can end up like Bruce, far worse even. If Kasady manages to win, hurt and kill everyone including her? Peter would break, because he would lose another family, one that took time for him to accept. But, she had faith, '..No he's dead wrong,' Stephanie found her resolve because of her faith, 'Unlike Bruce, Peter won't break. He hasn't, should've a long time ago, but he hasn't. And no matter what, I have faith that if anything does happen to any of us, Peter won't lose himself. He can't and he won't, because he's the most strongest person I know, the strongest person in our family. And with all my power…' She tightened her fist, 'I won't die, but I also won't let anyone in this family die to him, or the Arkham Knight!'

"How do you live with yourself? Knowing you can't make up those failures that shaped who you are? How do I know this? Know so much about you? Hell, I bet you're wondering why I haven't told the whole world your identity too huh?!"

Stephanie scoffed, 'I wonder the same, but like Joker, I bet it's because you like knowing what people don't know, and makes it all the more fun when you make your adversary miserable,' she deduced.

"Well…You'll find out eventually. Now press a key note on the Piano."

The recorder ended, and Stephanie did what she was told. In turn, shockingly, the body that was once dead became alive, growling, roaring, and snarling. Stephanie took a step back, taking out her staff, ready to fight whatever this thing was. But it was more busy smearing its red tendrils on the wall writing something.

Once done, Stephanie read it, 'The two flames are closer than you think, just as close as your first flame…The hell? First flame? Is he talk-'

"Not…SPIDER! BLUCH!" The symbiote or, whatever it was, tried to leapt at Stephanie, but she was quickie to smack it away, causing it to explode on impact.

She felt her own skin crawl when putting away her staff and ended her line of recording, "So he can bring back the dead too? Tsk, Guy just seems op as hell," she said to herself. It was then she heard the pinging noise coming from ear, "Fantastic timing on getting our communication backup Oracle".

She pressed it, opening the line up, "I got a riddle, time's ticking, so when does the clock stop?"

"Got another one; the two flames are closer than you think, just as close as your first flame."

---

A minute before Dick and Stephanie's riddle

Bruce had just made it to Gotham university. He had to make sure to get some new clothes while wearing sunglasses to make him look at least presentable when approaching the college. Some noted the car, the looks, and the appearance with ease that it was Bruce Wayne. And wouldn't have been helped that the news would talk about what he's doing after his house getting torn to pieces.

He would have to make addressment to that at some point. Right now he has other pressing matters to deal with. Campus was big enough to have multiple students doing their usual social interactions, but the college itself towers like an old gothic temple of sorts. It didn't help that Gotham university was built on that foundation centuries ago, and it's one of the few rare landmarks that has changed its looks as much.

Modern times have helped it keep it stable, but outside of that, Gotham university holds the old ways in its overall look more than anything.

Bruce blended in, walking through the security, greeting people, but also made sure to not stand out too much. He made sure to be quick witted, keep his hand down, and not over expose himself as Bruce Wayne to a lot of people when maneuvering the campus. Knowing the campus in and out, allowed him to move without having security recognize him, 'Kasady is a killer that wouldn't mind killing in the open. But as Peter said, he's going for a riddler type of tactic, and that means he likely might've murder a few people under people noises,' Bruce grimly thought as he walk around the inside of the campus, 'I would ask around, see if anyone saw or heard any type of disturbance but from what I would gather, it seemed likely nothing had occurred here.'

Bruce then heard his communication line start becoming up and running. Tapping it, he heard Dick first, "I got a riddle, time's ticking, so when does the clock stop?"

"Got another one; the two flames are closer than you think, just as close as your first flame," Stephanie said on her end, "He wouldn't have happened to have pre recorded speech on your end Dick?"

"He in fact did, talk some nonsense is all."

Bruce found it odd how fast he was deny in one go, meaning he must've heard something he doesn't want to say, "My end had him talk like he's high and mighty, thinking he knows so much about Peter and what makes him, well him as you all heard," Cassandra answered with an audible scoff as a way of her hearing what he mention on Stephanie end could be heard, "I don't want to think about it, but could they…Perhaps be buried alive like you had at one point Peter?"

"I…." Peter sighed was heard over his end as Bruce moved from level to level, going through classes and laboratories but also made sure not to disrupt any class in session, "Hope not, but Kasady wouldn't do that knowing it would be easy death to people who don't have powers, or a symbiote to keep them alive and sane. Everything he wants to do is to be slow and deliberate. If he truly wanted them dead, he would've told me already, hell...Show it to me."

"I'm now reaching the Osborn facility. It's still closed off from where I'm looking at," Tim mentioned on his end.

"Before they shut down, Ace chemical had an entrance that led through the tunnels to the inside…Oddly enough, it was something Gwen had found out," Peter said.

"Sounds to me like an ace chemical may be an ace in a hole," Dick, surprisingly said in a cheeky manner.

"Hm, and you mention I have worse timing Selina," Bruce muttered, but it wasn't enough where they couldn't hear him.

"I won't count that, since it's nice to hear Dick be chipper for once."

Dick snorted, "Oracle, make sure to get some cops over here. 4 dead, two adults….And two teenagers."

"Same as over here but a lot of the people who worked in the church…I don't like the fact this guy is reminding me of Joker."

"On it. Bruce, what's going on your end?" Barbara asked.

"Nothing much yet," Bruce brain started wiring, thinking, he is still known as the world's greatest detective and he has a title to uphold regardless if he isn't Batman no more, "Mary Jane was close to Gwen right Peter?"

"It was…A struggle at first. Their personalities didn't mesh well with one another, and if it wasn't for Harry and I, they would never be friends as they were. But yes they were."

"And what about Felicia?"

"Gwen passed before I met her. However…Mary Jane knows here and also wasn't fond of Felicia, and the two had…I think? Work out their problems with one another."

"Connection is you."

"My thoughts exactly Cassandra," Bruce said, "Where did you, Gwen, Mary Jane, and Harry spend the most time in college?"

"Easy, GU has a roof that only he can get up too," Jason answered

"Only he?" Bruce had to raise his eyebrow at Jason's mocking tone coming into play.

"I hadn't died yet so I know. Plus I didn't trust the redhead and Osborn at the time unlike Parker."

"Clearly remember you yelling through my ears how I accidentally revealed my identity to them."

"Because you were dumb and an ass, could've ditch them and then played hero."

"These jokes and back-talks!" Tim was grunting hard, as if he was moving through some obstacles along with explosions coming in their ear pieces, "Are not good…At a time like this…! Peter! A Little heads up about Osborn's facility would've been…Good!"

"I didn't think any of those traps would be active!"

"Peter, I swear to god if Tim even loses a hair on his head…"

"Don't worry Steph…I'll handle…Him.. If he does lose hair!"

"Ooooo you're in so much trouble Peter," Selina said with a snicker due to Stephanie and Cassandra's threat.

"This is why I don't have a girlfriend.. For this reason alone."

"Jason…Your taste in women could use some work, since…Getting with Deathstroke daughter of all things was an interesting choice."

"Oh shut it Dick, and it was more of a one time thing!"

"Yeah, I personally felt Artemis worked with you more than her."

"Ugh/Ugh…." Peter and Barbara collectively groan at all this. Barbara suffering from what she's hearing, and Peter being thrown to a well with two girls ready to kill him if poor Tim gets hurt.

Bruce found himself smiling at hearing the back and forth between his family. It was good, great to hear the profound sound between everyone like this. But he himself couldn't deny the fact it's to simply cover a larger problem between each and one of them.

Hopefully, since they're all here they can work it out. It's what he wants, and it's what Alfred would've wanted.

Bruce was aware of a way to get to the top without being. He would need to go to the top level where the classes resided. Going there, and noticing a class wasn't occupied at the moment, he went in, opened the window, and because he also had his utility belt, he pulled out a grapnel gun just before stepping out just a bit to use the grapnel gun. It clutched on the old bricks, allowing Bruce to pull himself to top. He couldn't help but let out a small groan, feeling that his body was still in pain from getting shot.

Yet he couldn't focus on that right now since he saw what he was half expecting. At first he at least thought he would see a dead body while also getting something recorded by Kasady. But instead, there were multiple dead pigeons, blood being smeared with the pigeons laid out in a full written sentence, "..Got a riddle, no dead bodies from the university or any pre speeches. It reads," Bruce crouched, tilting his head as he observes the meaning while going to read it out loud, "You can shackle the past, but it always crackles in the end. A rhyme…"

---

Second's before Bruce's riddle

Tim would move, roll, and even use his own staff that turned into a shield to block bullets coming towards him as he ran as fast as he could, sliding under the doorway while shutting the gate behind him quickly with the swipe of his staff. He made it into the Osborn factory that was once Ace chemical that Peter used to come into so he could design his web fluids. Everything was burrowed down, machines not of use, white coats being thrown around on equipment, and worst of all, there wasn't an ounce of light in the area as the facility hasn't been of use for a long time.

Good thing for Tim, his domino mask worked similar to Dick's own, and it helped that he still had a stash of his Robin suit. However, it wasn't his Red Robin suit that he grew accustomed to wearing at one point. Instead, it was one of his older one's he used before he became Red Robin; it was red, black, and yellow, the cape, spiked gauntlet, and leggings were black, the yellow were the outlines with the black like the sides of the cape, center line of chest, and the R on his chest. And the red made up the rest of the suit. He had to cut off one of the arms since he had no use for it due to missing arm, and It felt a bit tight on Tim, but he'll get used to it until he can create a new one.

Right now, it'll do for the mini mission he was on, "..Got a riddle, no dead bodies from the university or any pre speeches. It reads, "You can shackle the past, but it always crackles in the end." A rhyme it seems."

"...Rhymes with Jackal," Peter's tone of voice changed when being reminded of him, "Wouldn't put it against him if he found some way to work with Kasady. Or…"

"He must've hidden them where Jackal used to do his experiments," Bruce said.

"Where?! I can fly there on the spot!"

"It's not in Gotham! It's in Manhattan Dick!"

"Then I'll be there! They won't die Peter, I swear it!"

With likely finding out where the two hostages could be, Tim noted a body hanging in the area. It was wearing a costume of sorts while not being able to hide its skeleton form, but what was prominent was a green and purple costume resembling a goblin, 'He must've known this is what we do…Did he dig up Norman Osborn? Or is this just someone else that's dead…?' Tim questioned to himself, his own detective vision found a small usb port in the armor. He took it out, fitted into his gauntlet where it played a recorder, "By now, or not, who the hell knows, you know where they're at and you'll go save them or have one of your friends go save them. Norman was smart, wasn't he Spider? Something I'll never be, but I can match his obsession, or be a lot more than what he was. I mean…He forgoes his company, his son, just to fight you, hurt you, and try to kill you. All because you were his equal, a son he wishes he had, but not understanding you had a father that would never be replaced. What was it like fighting him? What was it like knowing he always knew how to fight you alone? Out of all the villains you fought, Goblin knew your strengths and weaknesses, and your biggest strength was the Bat, his family, and your family. Making sure they were distracted or away from you, meant you were all alone…Nothing but your brains and your wits to carry you forward. You can mock me being a copycat, but at the end of the day, they won't be enough to save you from me. You'll see my way, you have to see my way, it's the only way for you. You won't be alone, I promise.."

'It almost seems like he is so hell bent on trying to save a person that doesn't need saving…Or some type of…Delusional disorder that he has of believing Peter needs saving. Either way, this guy is sick to the head thinking his goal can align with Peter, not knowing Peter has fought and dealt with people like Kasady. The only real difference is-'

Tim's eyes widened, hearing triggers, time going down, a laughter as if Norman Osborn was alive, bombs were gonna go off and he needed to act quickly, "Shit!" Tim threw a bunch of shuriken projectiles to the roof, and made them explode where he grappled up to the roof, running then leaping just before the place blew up behind him.

He got caught from the impact of the explosion, blasting him forward to the ground, where he made sure to use his staff shield to absorb the fall as he rolled and tumbles on the ground, "TIM! TIM!"

Tim groans, standing up slowly as he can feel his ears ringing, "...Yeah, I'm ok Spoiler. Moving to New York right now…Just need a minute breather."

---

Kasady watched as the army he built, mold, were getting ready for their next attack that he'll be a part of. He also knows that the bat family had found the places where they'll then be shifted to New York, one where Peter would be forced to handle a certain problem by himself.

But first things first, was making sure his girl Shriek knew what to do. He called her, "Heya babe! Miss me?"

"Always! Can't wait to find time to screw your brains out," this got a giggle from her end, "Drown the girls would ya. It's time we roll out and cause some carnage once more."

"Hell yea!"

---

Mary Jane tried all she wanted, but couldn't get the chamber to open up. In her frustration, she looked back to Felicia, he was half awake, "You know you can help right?!"

Felicia scoffed, "No point. I don't got much on me or in me," she gestured to her beaten and battered form.

"If this was any other time, that would be a good laugh."

Felicia's response was to flip her off. They both then saw Shriek moving somewhere, turning something in the background, till a siren went off, and then water began plunging the place. Mary Jane's eyes widened while Felicia glared when Shriek came back to them, "Well! Looks like your Spider may or may not save you today!"

"I SWEAR I BET I CAN KNOCK YOUR TEETH OUT!" Mary Jane threatened and pound the chamber as if she could do something.

Shriek chuckled, going to climb a nearby ladder that would lead her out of the underground laboratory, "No you can't," she waved goodbye, before climbing up and closing the entrance behind her. A lock could be heard that only served to annoy Felicia more.

Water began pouring around the chamber steadily, soon enough, the water could and would break the chamber's glass, and drown the two women. Mary Jane wasn't going out like this, regardless if she knew Peter would come save them. She kept trying, punching and kicking, she can't give up knowing there had to be something she can do, "No point red."

"Oh shut up!" Mary Jane ran to Felicia, picking her up by her clothing, not caring if it hurt her to stand, "YOU CAN'T JUST GIVE UP FELICIA!"

"I'm being realistic here, the hell you're gonna do that will get us out of this?!" Felicia argues back.

"ANYTHING! THE THIEF I KNEW WOULDN'T JUST QUIT WHEN SHE HAS NOTHING BUT HER BRAIN TO BE USE," this little known fact shook Felicia a bit, having her not be able to hold her stare onto Mary Jane. And she knew she got her to not just do anything, but do something, "Now come the fuck on and help me here!"

Felicia scoffs, pushing Mary Jane off as she intends to do so. No matter how much it hurts to stand at the moment.

Chapter 20: Hope

Time was ticking every minute that passed. Peter, Cassandra, and Jason had a niche plan on how things would go once punching through the Arkham Knight's base. For one, they knew there was no easy way to win; two ways entering meant full frontal assault no matter what. They didn't have access to any underwater vehicles due to the Batcave being destroyed, meaning they would have to take the same way Jason did the first time he entered Jezebel plaza. It would then be up to Peter to take the bulk of their huge offensive set while Cassandra and Jason confronted the more major problems.

That was dealing with Arkham Knight and saving Talia.

They were all suit up in their costume, both repaired, refreshed for combat purposes. However, their physicality could be better as most of the Bat family didn't get a wink of sleep, an hour at best, or their injury still needed tended to, and yet they still went right back to touching up the Belfry. Even then, neither of the Bat family couldn't sleep with all that they had to do today, nor rest, lick their wounds. If anything, it could be considered another Tuesday when Gotham or its people need their help. No matter the pain or fatigue, these heroes will do what they must for the betterment of this city.

People who want to rid evil so good can prosper. Even if some of their methods are different then others.

Jason was making sure his weapons were all but good to go and of use. From his apartment, he brought more for his frontal assault such as rocket launchers and grenade launchers, with an added more magazines to the plethora of guns he has. Peter, Barbara, and Cassandra still aren't fond of the methods Jason will be using when working together, but what can they do? They can't tell him to stop what he's doing, and they tried. But stopping him meant squandering their energy against the Knight and their army. They may not like it, but they have to get used to it otherwise they'll fall apart before they even work together.

Selina too helped with Jason, even when his stubbornness told her to not touch anything. He forgets she has her own knowledge on how to make sure the likes of assault rifles and handguns were up to their task. And it helped that she repaired his helmet and suit that got damaged from being outnumbered and taken beaten from the Knight's forces. She even sought to at least remedy his bruised body so that it wouldn't be bothered when it came back.

She however, didn't like the stubbornness of his refusal when receiving help, yet she did it anyway.

Meanwhile, Barbara still was focused on her computer, monitoring the data of how much the symbiote had spread amongst the people of Gotham, and the rendezvous points involving the other team going to save Mary Jane and Felicia. Out of all the Bat family, excluding Peter due to his super human nature able to keep him awake for days, Barbara had not once slept. Each time she rubbed it to keep it open, flickering her eyelids left and right, having to drink a few coffee along with water to keep her hydrated, all at the expense of keeping to monitoring everything no matter what.

She couldn't rest until the situation eased itself out, and that wasn't happening at the moment.

This left Peter and Cassandra to themselves. Each checking both of their suits, equipment, and their overall health. However, Cassandra did more of the checking with the physical side while Peter focused more on the equipment side. Cassandra, while her boyfriend was sitting, was checking, head, neck, body, and legs that only served to annoy Peter a little, "Cass," he swatted her hand away, "I'm ok."

She pouted and glared, not stopping and going back to checking on him. Peter was tinkering his wrist for added weaponry. He made sure to quickly test out earlier with one of Jason guns that shoot out small darts to disable certain weapons upon fighting the Knight's HQ. Safe to say, it pissed Jason off, and Barbara lectured him about fuming him up at a time like this. Just for a second, it felt like they were young again and didn't have to worry about bad people going to great lengths to stop them, and tear apart this city on an immeasurable scale.

He also multitasks from himself and to his girlfriend, making sure her own gauntlets and its tech were up to date. And while Cassandra loves seeing him do what he loves, it only annoyed her more that he rather not abide by her probing. In doing so, she forced him to turn around, and made him stand up, "Cass!" She extended his arms horizontally, and then gestured for him to do some stretching. Peter would sigh, not getting away with this as he hoped. In turn, he did what his girlfriend wanted him to. She made sure to feel his body contour in case there was anything wrong. She especially made sure he bent, twisted his body to see how his muscles reacted and retracted to one another, "I'm really good Cass. I heal fast, you forget?" He said, trying to ease her worrying nature.

She glared at him, she grabbed where his ribs were, and due to how he stretched his body, there was a stifle that escaped his lips. Just as he changed position, he couldn't help to have one of his sheepish looks on his face that counter her glare, "Can't hide," then she frowned, "Don't hide pain, please..?"

"It's not…That I want too," performing a gentle movement with her hand, she massages those parts of his body so the muscle can relax and have a much easier time healing at the moment. In a sense, Peter couldn't help but let out a gentle sigh of relief of Cassandra massage, "...No matter if it's a broken rib, arm, or anything, I can't stop till everyone is fine," She was right behind him, her body was now in a standing position where he raised arm high up. Besides the bruised ribs, or at least, the bruises everywhere that he suffered from his last fight, Peter was in condition to keep going, keep fighting.

She again turned him around, wanting him to keep stretching. Once she noted how his body was properly moving, she couldn't help but hug his back, and have her chin resting on his shoulder where she leaned close to his ears. Even though there was still an inch of a height difference between them, Cassandra somehow was comfortable in her position with her partner, "I know. My job to make sure…You're ok," she buried her head behind him, "...Don't wanna lose you."

He brought his hands down to where her hand was wrapped around, rubbing his thumb gently upon her metallic armor gauntlet, "And as I said, you won't. My heart is still beating, and it won't stop."

Holding on just a little longer, she too had to feel that beating heart, the courageous heart he has to keep enduring for the greater good. She won't lie to herself, Cassandra truly believes that if Peter wanted to, she wouldn't hold it against him to stop being Spider-Man. But, she knows deep down, he has to want to do it. Not just simply stop doing it for a bit because of the rough times, but truly just be a normal person and nothing more than that. If she can see, hear, whenever he does bring it up, then she'll truly respect it and love it.

Maybe someday, if it does happen, and no one needs a Batwomen, then she'll retire too, 'A nice house….Garden….yard…tree's… Away from Gotham….Be a nice place to retire…' She thought to herself as she unwrapped herself from Peter. But then she felt that jolt, one that made her hold onto his hands, made him turn back to her curiously. It was the same thought like earlier that got her feeling this way, feeling so much, thinking so much about her future with Peter, 'I said before…I'll find the time,' she looked upon Peter, the man she loves, and the man she wants to love forever and ever, 'But when will that be…?'

Cassandra knew what she wanted to do, it made her fidget her thumbs on Peter. She stammered out words that Peter can barely hear that made him turn around curiously. This in itself made him notice her embarrassment especially when she looked away from him, "Um, is everything alright Cass?" he asked, concerned about her sudden flush, "You seem a little red."

The fact he noticed her flush but didn't dive deep into it calmed her. Peter might be smart, but sometimes the little things fly over his head, "...Fine," Cassandra took a deep breath in remembering why she was doing this.

Forward, moving forward, take the lead, be a leader, decide, and don't falter.

She is Cassandra Cain, neither an assassin like her parents, nor the same Bat that tarnishes the symbol, not the smartest person in the room, but a woman who feels so much that she wants to express it. She is Cassandra Cain, a woman who wants to be more than those before her, and be a woman who's allowed to be happy no matter what happens in the outside world, "..I LOVE YOU PETER PARKER!" She shouted loudly, enough to grab the attention of three people in the room.

Peter didn't expect her to shout. Just from suddenly hearing it, it almost sounded like it came from the bottom pit of her stomach, something she couldn't get out, something she had been holding in for years. It's where Peter quickly realized she likely has been wanting to say that for a long time. And it seems she didn't know when, how, or if it was the appropriate time to come out to admit that.

Because how can you tell someone that you love them so much when you're not sure if you can love that person? Love them more than just a friend, a family, but love them, truly love them in ways you never have done with another person before.

For Cassandra, it was never easy to say this even when she knew she loved Peter. The hardest part was understanding love, understanding that she is allowed to love him regardless of her own flaws, and regardless of whatever may happen next between them. Deep down, Cassandra was simply afraid to come to terms with that feeling, but now she doesn't want to be afraid.

Cassandra Cain no longer wants to be afraid of being able to love Peter Parker, fully, not just the kisses, the hugs, the talks, the playfulness, the trust, but being able to physically say that she loves him with all her heart.

And Peter couldn't help but feel like he was on cloud 9 hearing her say that, "I LOVE YOU TOO CASSANDRA CAIN!" He shouted back, smiling widely that counter her shocked, bashful expression.

Selina held back her giggled watching the scene unfold, Barbara too had a grin that couldn't help but lighten her mood, yet Jason was the only one indifferent by the situation, but he also didn't have the nerve to spoil their mood.

Cassandra let out a small yelp at how suddenly Peter threw that back at her, "Too fast…!"

"Was I supposed to wait then?" He asked, chuckling and tilting his head while he began playing with her bangs in front.

With how he teased, it made her pout and develop the courage to look directly at him once more, "You were waiting for me."

"I felt it was more of an unspoken thing," he shrugged, "I won't lie that there might've been a time in the past I was unsure you felt that way towards me. But as time went on and we got closer, I think I got the hint you did love me, and you would let our relationship reflect on that," his one hand scratched behind his hair, "I guess you can call our own actions and communication was our way saying we love each other without being told to one another. Or…Like now, I just simply wanted to wait for you to tell me that. Because even myself… It was hard to come to terms with how much I love you," Peter was now frowning just a little of where he was going next, "I only ever really love one person, and I tried finding love with many other women with no success…I didn't want to say something as that because I didn't know if I was ready to openly admit that…I didn't know when my feelings for you elevated to that. Maybe it was the first time when you got dru-" Cassandra eyes widened and quickly covered his mouth, putting one finger by his lip so as to not bring up how they're relationship started.

Peter would eye roll, knowing likely Selina and Barbara at least knows how the relationship started, heck even Jason. But he nodded anyway and respected her wishes just to not get her embarrassed again. Cassandra would remove her hand's from his mouth to let him continue, "..I know at some point I fell for you, maybe fell for you really hard, and I wasn't aware of it. Part of me feels like…I don't deserve it, just as part of me expects my luck to take away what I have in front of me…" Peter then shook his head, his big brown hair moving left and right with the motion of his head, "But I can't think like that, not anymore that is. My Aunt, Gwen, her father, my friend Harry, Mary Jane, Charlotte, Ben and the Bat family in general wouldn't want me to think like that…I want to be able to finally allow myself to be able to move forward; with who I am, my feelings, my strength, my weakness…I don't want to keep regressing anymore Cassandra…And with you taking that first step," his hand grabs hers, holding it gently as his hazel eyes kept it locked on her basil eyes, "I want to be able to follow through."

Cassandra's mouth was left slightly open. Sometimes she wishes she can speak like how Peter speaks. From the bottom of his heart, being so open, and expressing how open he is. She knows it took awhile for him to be able to be open like this, but she wishes she can. She knows the only real way of doing this would be to read and write to better improve her speech, and understanding physical language better. Something she has neglected for sometime after becoming Batwomen.

But now, she feels she needs to do that, she feel needs to work on speaking from the heart like Peter. If she wants to keep being able to make her own decisions, then needs to be able to speak from the heart better, not just emotionally wise, but physically wise, with how stuttering and biting on her words, "...What if I…Never did say it?" She asked.

Peter let himself think for a second, an expression that made Cassandra softly giggled, "Hmmm, good questions. Maybe I'll do it when I slip a ring in your fin-."

Peter's eyes widened, placing his hand by his mouth as his lips moved faster than he thought it would. Cassandra too eyed wide, and Selina's own laughter echo through the Belfry tower, "PROPOSE?!"

Now Peter's own faced with a flush in red, "Wait wait!" one hand waved back and forth, "Not now! I mean…" Peter lightly groan as that one hand went to scratch his cheek, "..Ugh..Man I wanted to surprise you when all this is over with, but me and my big mou-"

"I do."

Peter's eyes widened, double taking what his girlfriend just said to him, "Come again?"

Cassandra let go of his hands, again, taking the step forward as she brought him close to her so they're lips came in contact with one another. Their kiss only lasted a few seconds, as the Bat and the Spider were looking upon each other bashfully, sure of themselves, but just really embarrassed with all that just happened between them. It was like a soap uproar drama happening amongst one another, with a splash of good guys and bad guys going along with it in the background, "I do, I wanna marry you," She said softly that warmed Peter's heart.

"I…"

While he was at a loss for words staring at her basil eyes, Cassandra wasn't, "I wanna spend the rest of my life with you. Have babies with you. Build us our own family, make this family bigger!" Cassandra said, each time becoming more and more happier, so ecstatic that her speech impediment wasn't an issue, "I never wanna lose you, and I want to be with you forever, and ever..!"

Peter was left astound, mouth open, eyes blinking suggesting he's still alive. But all the more, Peter for once didn't have a word to say. If he was to be honest, truly honest with himself? This was the first time, in a long time, that his heart raced as fast as Keystone city's scarlet speedster, and itself, made him at a loss for words. The only other person that made him feel like this, where he got lost into the other person's eyes, world, tone, voice, and let his heart go faster than the speed of light, was Gwen. Peter was somewhere else, beyond cloud 9, cloud 9000 even. To not only hear the woman he loves, tell her he loves her, but wants to secure a future with him, forever and ever, all the more meant that this was the one for him.

Through all the trial and tribulation he went through. Through the years of heartbreak and heart loss. Through the dark times, the lonely times that came over his head. He found her, Cassandra Cain, the woman who will be his wife, right in front of him. And next thing he did was kiss her, swung her around, getting her to giggle and chuckle loudly while she held onto him. Heck, he did a backflip with her, and kept spinning her around in mid air, "WE'RE GONNA HAVE A BIG FAT WEDDING!"

"LOT'S OF CAKE."

He stopped his jumping, frowning at the mention of cake, "Cass…You know what too much sugar does to you."

She again glared at him, "CAKE! OR NO WEDDING!"

"BUT THERE'S-"

"NO EXCEPTIONS!"

While Peter was trying to appease her better judgment, failing at it, Jason let out a scoff when watching the two. This didn't go unnoticed by Selina, "Be happy for them."

"I am happy, see?" He pointed to a smile that looked more forced than anything.

Selina eye roll, "Yeah...Sure you are."

Quick as it came, Jason's face went back to being neutral, and his focus back on the weapons he was touching up, "Besides, if he's happy, then he's happy. It's not my concern or care in what goes on how he feels Selina," suddenly Jason let out a small chuckle, "Funny…I don't remember you caring this much about my relationship with Parker, or anyone else for that matter."

Selina found herself dejected at the point Jason made, "Can you blame me..?" She query more to herself then him, "..You came back from the dead, or rather you already train with Talia, butcher all what Bruce had try to teach you, and then you cross the line…" she put the gun aside, finding herself looking down in her hand for a second before looking back at Jason, "..It's hard looking at the man you become when I knew you as a hot headed teenager wanting to do more good than harm."

Jason to stop tinkering with his rocket launcher, putting it aside, as his navy blue eyes turn to Selina's own shamrock eye's, "People change..Not like I can go back to how naïve I was," he again scoff as he found himself looking away from Selina, and at Peter and Cassandra, "I'll say this…I only became so naïve because of him and his….Ex."

"Does seeing him…Being happy with someone else make you feel some type of way Jason?"

Jason turned to her, his mouth ready to answer, but he held it back. He knew what was on his mind, wanting to be vocal about Peter's relationship with Cassandra. He didn't hate it, and if he wanted to only say it to himself, he's glad he has someone to make him happy. Yet, there's that part that mixes with all the anger, rage, fury because of this city and every scum that wants to do bad to the good people here. That anger says otherwise, '...He's happy…Something my naïve self wanted for him…So why do I hate seeing him happy? Is it because it's not with Gwen…?' Jason didn't have the right answer and if he was honest with himself, he hadn't exactly thought about Gwen till he came back to Gotham.

Drinking helped not thinking, and without alcohol, his mind wandered in places he didn't like.

Besides Jason, Barbra was in her own thoughts, happy, elated at seeing her protégé happy with one another, 'So they're finally gonna tie the knot? Very happy for them, and it's about time. But I guess with those two, they needed time to sort things out. Things haven't always been easy for them, but I guess that was something they had in common, something that always attracted them to one another,' she briefly looked at the Bat and the Spider arguing about their future wedding, allowing her to giggle and shake her head, 'They've grown up… It was only yesterday when I had to monitor Peter's daredevil actions and movement because he was always a wild card, and Gwen's death only escalated that. It was also yesterday where I had to be an older sister of sorts to Cassandra, guiding her the right way to understand what we do. And it was only yesterday where I remember Peter spending time helping her with reading, and that also helped to calm him, ground him, and remember what life is all about beyond saving people, or grieving for another person.'

That particular day, Barbara smirk grew just a bit.

---

6 years ago

Barbara made it to the clocktower. It only had been about a month since No man's land for Gotham was all but gone and order was somewhat restored to the city. She had spent time helping out her father with some of the more technological stuff that needed sorting out in the GCPD. And with that out of way, she was back in the clocktower to begin monitoring Gotham for Bruce and rest since it was now night time.

Oddly, instead of wanting to feel the warmth of her safe house, she didn't expect to smell food, but also saw Peter interacting with Cassandra on the couch, both in their costume to also keep them warm from the winter drowning the city in coldness, "F..F..Fond?"

"Close! Fffffouuuuund!"

"Fffffffooooouuuuund..!"

"But this time, just found."

"Frown."

"Found."

"Fond!"

"Found Cassandra."

Barbara can see Cassandra annoyed and pissed off. She groaned loudly and went back to eating what seemed like Chinese food. Peter sighed and shook his head, noticing Barbara was rolling to them, "Hey Babs! How is your father and GCPD?"

"Getting better. A lot of stuff needs repairing but day by day everything is getting back to normal. With you, Bruce, some of the Titans, and the Justice League members coming and helping out, it seems like No man's land happened years ago instead of a month ago," she said. Barbara was now curious of not only hearing Peter helping out with Cassandra speech, but also notice the books he picked out for her to study on the couch along with some Chinese food near the table, "I'm surprised you're finding time to help Cassandra. College classes started this week, shouldn't you be studying?"

"Hm? Oh well, I decided to drop out of college," Peter nonchalantly said, "This would give me a lot more time to do some of the stuff I need to do."

Barbara's eyes widened, "You dropped out? Why?! Bruce made sure to give you a scholarship so you not only get a fine education, but a degree in the things you wa-"

"I know, I know," Peter put up his hands, stopping Barbara from talking, "But I need to take care of everyone right now. May is recovering in the hospital, Harry needs me with everything that's been going on after what happened Norman, MJ is drinking again…" Again Peter sighed, "...I can't do college when everyone needs me Barbara. I can't be distracted with education when there are more important things going on in this city."

"But Peter-"

"Please, let's not argue-"

"I know how important being Spider-Man is, and to help everyone around you, but you have to also take care of yourself too Peter!" Barbara almost shouted with tired frustration of Peter self sabotaging himself.

Peter groaned, knowing he tried to avoid this, but now he can't, "What would education do for my Aunt?! She needs me there! Sure Bruce is paying for the bill, but who else is gonna tak-"

"Alfred can do that! Heck I can!" Peter glared at her, not trying to judge her due to her being wheel bound, but how could she help his Aunt with her position? This in itself, also caught Barbara off guard, sighing, "...I can try at least..?"

Peter arms crossed, "Alfred has other things to worry about and I can't have him spread himself thin. And what about Harry? MJ? Who's gonna look out for them?!" Barbara again went quiet, "...Exactly. I will not judge any of you for your responsibilities, in fact, you've all done so much for me already. But none of you all can look after the people I love every waking day. It's up to me, and me alone. That's why I have to give up my education for the people I love, and for this city."

Cassandra looked at both Barbara and Peter. She saw both were frowning, both were saddened about something, and it didn't help there was a disappointment arraying between the two people that had been looking out for since being accepted in Bruce's family. While she knew they were talking, understanding what they were speaking about was harder, but seeing their facial movement, and how they're body was reacting to their conversation meant there was something going on. Something that made them explosive in terms of their emotions, and she didn't exactly like it.

She wanted to do something, she wanted to do something to help ease them, ease the tension in the room. Putting her food aside once again, she went back to try to properly say the word that Peter was having in her study. She kept trying to say it silently, till it became just a bit louder due to her own frustration, "Fond…Ffffound…Frown…Gah…FON! FOUN! FOUND! FOUND! FOUND! FOUND!" In her frustration, she said the word she wanted to say. This got Peter and Barbara's attention, having them both be awestruck, "FOUND! FOUND! HEHE! FOUND!" She giggles at her achievements.

"THERE WE GO!" Peter shouted, flip to her, sitting right next to her, "Now onto the next one!"

"NO!" Cassandra went back to eating, seeing she did exactly what she wanted to do.

"C-Cassandra! Ugh…" Her face palmed, "..Why do I even bother?" Peter turn to Barbara who still held her own smirk as she rolled next to them, "She's so much better being my dynamic duo then being a study pa-"

Cassandra would end up shoving a chicken into Peter's mouth, stopping him from continuously talking, "Eat! Cold! Eat!"

It was Peter's turn to groan, just as it was Barbara's turn to have a laugh after the ordeal she was dealing with Peter, and an entirely bit of a stressful day she dealt with. She knows there was more to talk about with Peter in the future, but that can wait. She rather enjoys this time when Peter is in a lighter mood, not having the world rest on his shoulder.

And for someone like Cassandra to be able to do this so easily, to be able to keep him distracted and upbeat, was a sight to behold.

---

Present

"Shit!" Barbara shouted, reality came smack into her face as the Belfry computer was done analyzing the amount of symbiotes in Gotham, "Everyone! You're gonna need to take a look at this now!."

The 4 people in Belfry either jog to the computer or move their chairs closer to Barbara. On the Belfry's computer, everyone saw the data being finished on how much Kasady symbiote had spread amongst Gotham. Everyone's expressions were a mix of slack jaw, mouth slightly open, or shock at what they saw.

Kasady symbiote didn't just spread from the army he's formed, but also spread to whoever were either civilian's or secretly part of his army. The 3D map of Gotham showcases a portion of the three islands encompassed in red linear markers. It didn't showcase who since the Belfry system mainframe didn't have the capacity for that, but it was able to showcase where the symbiotes are at, where they're moving, even if they're dormant until further notice.

The red markers were spread all across the three islands, signifying they were almost everywhere at this time.

"He spread…That much? How is that even possible..?" Peter asked.

"Don't look at us Parker," Jason said, "You were the one that had the black suit and went face to face with it before. So should know this was to be expected."

Peter found himself scowling at Jason, "Yeah, but Eddie was never able to spread this much before! He's done it to a few people but not on this scale!"

"Either way, now that is a fucking army. Probably bigger than the Knight's own. Hell maybe at this moment," Jason had his arms crossed, "It make sense why this crazy fucker is able to know your every move Parker. For all we know just like the Knight, this fucker likely has been spending just as much time building his army for this moment!"

Peter didn't like that thought, to know that there were two individual villains that had been planning months, years maybe, for this exact moment, "What's scarier is that it seems like the Knight and Kasady haven't partnered up yet."

"And when they do…All hell is gonna rain on Gotham. There's no way we can compete against them when that time comes," Selina mentioned, "We're gonna need way more help."

"Let's not forget that now we know this, it means Kasady is waiting for you specifically to take a move," Barbara said to Peter, "The Arkham Knight knows that if Peter fought with any of you, it'll be trouble. And Kasady knows that when you're not around with everyone Peter, your much easier to be taken down until he can get his claws on everyone else," Barbara began typing away for a communication line that was being sent outside of Gotham, more towards space, "We're gonna need help, and we can't expect the other heroes from the Justice League, Titans, Justice Society or any other team to come for our help."

"Superman?" Cassandra throws out, wondering if he can be called upon.

"Hell no," Jason was the first to say, "If the Arkham Knight is that smart, then they'll prepare for him. It's not that hard to have kryptonite these days."

"Oh because you have one?" Jason smirks, causing Peter to give an irritable groan, "Anyways, Jason is right. We can't hope to have Clark and his family help in this situation. Kasady would likely take a chance of letting his symbiote takeover Clark since he's not as strong as he used to be."

"Which is why I'm gonna get the next best thing," Barbra began transmitting communication to a planet far from earth known as New Tamaran, "Thank god we have Wayne's tech antenna in outer space to do the leg work."

"While you do that I'm gonna also try to get some more help along the way," Peter said.

"Who?" His soon to be fiancé asked.

"Uh, welllll..." Peter was scratching his head as everyone looked at him curiously, "My uh, Spider family..? I'm honestly banking Madame Webb can not only come through for them, but maybe a certain someone can get Zatanna to help out too."

This caught Barbara's attention, "You're actually gonna ask them for help? Not all of them would be cooperative to help out here, or better yet, you Peter."

"I know, that's why I can only hope Ben helps me out here. And plus…I mention that's something I have to fix, and what better way than cracking two eggs for an omelet by doing this?"

By that simple statement, the four people in the belfry stared at him oddly, "...The fuck is that meaning Parker?" Jason questioned.

"Shhhuu! Gotta concentrate now."

Peter would close his eyes, trying to get in tune with Charlotte, 'Ok…Just gotta remember what the former CW told me…Focus on the thin web…The connection that connects everyone…The web that ties all life no matter living and breathing…Focus on the web…Focus….CHARLOTEEEEEEEE! CW! CAN YO-'

'Oh great scotts Peter! You did that on purpose!'

Peter let himself chuckle, 'Just checking to see if you weren't spying on me all of the time. There are certain things I want to keep private, you know?'

'...I'm not a creep to not know what you do with your soon to be wife. Congratulations by the way.'

Peter opens his eyes, looking at Cassandra, "CW said congrats to us."

"Thanks! Hope to see…You at the wedding!"

'Ugh…You'll have to force me there because I'm not one for that stuff. Anyways, Ben already is aware of the situation and is finishing up some stuff in Vegas. I've tried to communicate with the others with only some…Success.'

'Meaning?'

'Kaine told me to fuck off. Jessica thinks you can handle it, and Mattie doesn't want to set foot in Gotham even knowing what happened to her Uncle. I made sure to contact those 3 first before Ben, and knowing your brother, he said he'll make sure they'll help.'

Peter found himself smirking, 'With him, I don't think I have to worry then. He is, after all, way better at handling relationships and communication than me.'

'He is technically you, just the same as Kaine. No matter how different they are, taking the best and worst parts of you, you can learn from them just as they can learn from you.'

'I know…I want to, so that way I can be better. Thanks Charlotte, I owe you big time.'

He can feel her giggle, 'You don't owe me anything. After how much you help me, or how much you've done as a hero, you don't owe anyone anything. Just make sure you do right by them, don't turn away from them even if they do it first.'

'Yeah I know, I got it.'

Peter would finish his talk with Madam Webb, coming back into reality, "Ok, everyone ready to save the Demon Head?"

"Like we have a choice," Cassandra would hit Jason ribs with her elbows, having him wince lightly, "..What? It's true."

"Yes."

"Alright autobot's, let's roll out."

Peter felt pride in that quote, no matter if Jason gave him the stink eye.

---

New York City

Dick was speeding through Manhattan, passing from lower Manhattan to all the way towards the middle of Manhattan, where it's most well known sites Time Square and Central park resides at. He was getting close to where Jackal's old hideout was, but then suddenly, his jet pack stopped working, "DAMN IT!"

He only just now noticed his fuel for jet wings were now depleted. He might've recharge it earlier in the Belfry, but with how he sped from Gotham to New York, he drained the battery at an exponential rate. Dick was sent crashing to the street's, pressing the button on his arms where the wing jet folded inside his suit, as he landed on top of a truck. He was able to stop himself from falling directly to the street by catching the edge of the truck, "UGH!" Dick let out a shock of pain, it wasn't just the landing or how he caught himself, but the fact his body was going through self-abnegating of the venom he has been using for months.

He quickly pulled himself up on the truck, biting down his own teeth as he let the pain run his body. If the truck hadn't stopped due to traffic, he might've fallen off because he couldn't hold onto it at his condition. Dick touches the device in his ear to get in contact with the Belfry communication line, "Barbara…"

"Dick! What happened?!"

Groaning more through the pain, Dick had to stay focused, had to ignore his mind telling him to use what's in his belt, use the drug that gives him strength. It would be so easy, and he won't be distracted by the pain. But he can't go through the ordeal of how his family saw him, and not to mention.

He had thought about Koriand'r, to which he hadn't, just like the other times where he was selfish with the relationship he had for. He thought of his family, how they were all disappointed of the choice he made, and then thought about himself, how he'll end up like Bane, a villain he fought and face with Bruce thousands of times in the past before his death.

He has to be better, for his family's sake, for himself, but most importantly, to the women he doesn't want to lose again, "...Minor issues, need…" Dick pushes himself up to his feet, slowly as his body shakes in pain, as his body sends out so much stinging pain that it was like he was getting electrocuted by one of Peter's rogues, and not to mention, the migraine pulsed heavily to his head. All this was just reminding him more and more what it feels to be off venom, and it was a bitch to deal with, "Another way…To location…" He said in between his shaky breath.

"Dick, Bruce is more closer than Tim and I! He can come-"

"No Spoiler! I'm the closest there! Oracle please!"

"..You're close to 59th Columbus circle! Take the 1, it should lead you near to the south Ferry line by Lexington that was closed years ago."

"On…It!" Dick would then push himself, push through the pain, even when it hurt, he had to keep going. He leapt from car to car, riding on it till he made it to the Columbus circle station, 'Keep going Dick…No matter how much it hurts…Keep going!' He encouraged himself to the best he could.

But it hurts all the same.

---

Bruce heard what was going on Dick's end, and the worst part he kept turning off his communication line so no one could hear the pain he was going through. Bruce sped through the traffic, sped past the red light, and sped straight past the bridge he just crossed just so he could get there to help Dick. Unlike Dick, who took the easier, but longer way flying straight to lower Manhattan, Bruce took the longer way to get to Manhattan via the George Washington bridge. It meant he would be able to rendezvous Dick's location faster since Tim and Stephanie were just now reaching the George Washington Bridge as they were more in the middle of Gotham while Bruce had access to get to Manhattan a lot easier than them.

If Tim could've, he would fly over to New York but his car lacks the power and fuel at the moment since getting back to Gotham. Either way, Bruce had to be there for Dick, since he of all people knows just enough what he's going through, 'It's a slippery soap when having the power venom gives to you…I may not have been in the same pain as Dick, but I sure as hell know what it was like getting clean off of venom…And Dick shouldn't be out in the field cause of it,' Bruce thought to himself, 'I've suspected it…But like everyone, I didn't want to believe that he resort to venom. Even modified, he still succumbed to similar changes in characteristics like I had…All Because I couldn't save her…That little girl who needed me…And I didn't had the strength that Peter had to save her.'

Bruce still remembers her, the little girl he couldn't save in his earlier years of being Batman, the little girl, Sissy was her name, used in a twisted plot schemed by her own father, just to get Bruce to be manipulated into using venom. He remembers how much he hurt Alfred, Gordon and Captain Stacy in those days because of it. And the only way he was able to even beat his own demon's was through sheer will power.

But he also remembered something important, he didn't do it alone, '..God Alfred…' Bruce's grip on the grip tightened, 'It's times like these where I'm not ready to lose you…I still need you,' Bruce shook his head, he couldn't keep thinking about all this, not right now.

He needs to stay focused on the mission, on helping his son get through this.

---

New Tamaran

Unlike Earth, New Tamaran surrounded itself with nature first and foremost. Wild creatures ran amok here both in the skies and the ground below. The environment itself was filled with the mixture of greenish to bluish trees that were designated all around New Tamaran. While these types of creatures roam the environment, so do the people in it which were known as Tamaraneans. Just like Koriand'r and her sister, most share their blazing trail of energy behind them, just as their skin shares the same color as the blazing orange sun that shines above them.

Speaking of Koriand'r, the queen of this planet, she was handling some businesses that involved using technology from their planet. She was in outer space using similar equipment from Earth to be inputted here where there was a station overlooking her planet. This was a headquarter similar to Earth's watchtower, so that way, the planet can thrive more on nature than the usage of technology.

It's here where Koriand'r was making sure it was up to date, but she couldn't help but frown to herself when touching up the rectangular space headquarter, 'Why am I still here? I should be on earth helping Dick and his family as I wanted too!' Koriand'r had then sighs, 'But being the queen of New Tamaran means keeping order…And I feel terrible that I'm not keeping up my word when it comes to helping them.'

Koriand'r felt like she was only putting up a front that she would come to help the Bat family, but she wasn't, as New Tamaran always kept needing her undivided attention. She couldn't say no to what the people need, nor ignore where help is needed. She felt if she left her home unattended, it would go to shambles, '...I don't want to lose another home…Not when I spend a full year getting everything in place.'

It was then she saw her sister, flying to her by the corner of her outlandish green eyes, "Sister, a human by the name of Oracle needs your attention."

Koriand'r eyes widened, it must mean something important was happening for her to call her. She quickly nodded, "Take over for me!" Not waiting for an answer, Koriand'r quickly flew inside the headquarters, and rushed to the communication room where she luckily had it all to herself. She patches herself to a server mainframe where she can talk to Barbara, "Barbara! I know! I said I would come, but there's been some setbacks in New Tamaran that have kept me here."

"If it's possible Star fire! We really need your help now. We're dealing with multiple armies, and while we have the whole team back, we're too spread thin right now at the moment."

"And being spread so thin means one of those armies could do something terrible?" Koriand'r quickly noted but still asked just in case.

"Exactly so, and one of those armies you're familiar with. It seems the symbiote Peter had dealt with has come back, but a new one unlike the previous one he had on him."

She put her hand by her mouth, shocked at hearing the fact that Klyntar was able to reproduce, "It had reproduced?!"

"Quite possibly, but not only that, it seems this symbiote had been able to spawn more of it."

Koriand'r eyebrow shrewd, but at the same time, she gasped at how far this type of symbiote was at the stage it was in, "He's gaining more mass to spread and spread..! I'm on my way Barbara! Don't worry!"

The communication line was cut as Koriand'r again, shot out like a flying bullet back out to outer space. She went to her sister once more, who was taking over her job at the moment, "Sister! Please take care of New Tameran, Earth needs me."

Her eyebrow raised, "You know how these people are with me Koriand'r, you sure y-"

Koriand'r quickly hugged her sister, "Yes! Doesn't matter what you did to them or to me! It's in the past, now please! Hold down the fort! My first home needs me!" As soon as she came, she went, leaving a golden, fiery trail right behind as she blaze out from Komand'r eye view.

Though, Komand'r found herself frowning at what her sister said to her, "In the past huh… It seems my sister may get hurt once more from the past..Just as I feel like I haven't done enough to repent my sins."

Komand'r couldn't worry about that right now. When the time comes to first another one of her actions, she will, even if her sister will get hurt from it.

---

New York City

"Come on Felicia!"

"Red! There's no way we're gonna get this thing open. Not with Brute force or by getting lucky in finding a switch!"

It was close to an hour, maybe more or less as Felicia and Mary Jane kept trying to find a way out of this impossible scenario. As she mentioned, they've tried brute forcing their way out with their body, only to be unsuccessful and Felicia sitting on the ground holding her waist. It didn't help that she was sitting where her lower body was caught in the body water that seeped through the chamber. Quite literally, if Peter or anyone else doesn't come in time, they will drown.

And Felicia, being encouraged by red, doesn't want to give up. She doesn't want to die here of all places, 'I can't die in a dump like this! I'd rather at least die somewhere comfortable than here!' Felicia told herself, pushing herself up from the metallic ground, but she falter and went back to sitting, 'Fuck…!' Her face squinted from the excruciating pain she put herself through trying to get out of the chamber, 'Push too damn much for my own good…Come on Hardy…You watch your father be one of the best thief's in New York…You sought others like Ted and Selina to train yourself to be the best god damn thief compare to others….And even if I use them to my own end, I learn from the best to be the best. I'm a hypocrite...But they taught me to be who I am now!' as Felicia talks herself into focusing on what she's missing to escape, she then notices one vital detail that can possibly save both her and Mary Jane's life.

The chamber can't handle the pressure of the water. It's beginning to crack near them, and Mary Jane is actually increasing the crack, 'Bin-fucking-go.'

"Red!" Stopping her bomb rush on the chamber, she look to Felicia struggling to pick herself up, but all the more had that familiar fire look in her eyes when it came to wanting what she wants, "Hit this point a few more times and move out the way, and whatever you, don't let me go."

Mary Jane looked in front of her, noticing the amount of water was flooding, and then realized what Felicia meant, "OK!" Roaring with all her might, Mary Jane kept bomb rushing herself to the chamber.

She kept moving all the way back to the small chamber, then ran as fast as she could, smashing her shoulder to the chamber wall.

She did it once.

Twice.

Three.

Then forth.

And the fifth time, she put her all into, "FUCKING BREAK YOU PICECE OF SHIT!" Mary Jane ran, launching herself, smashing shoulder once more on the glass wall. This is when the crack creates an opening. Mary Jane ran to Felicia, holding her by the waist, until the amount of water began pouring right into the chamber.

Even when away from the flood, Mary Jane and Felicia still got caught by the body water. It was enough to push them away, but not enough to send them hurling and diving deeper to the body of water. Scrambling on the ground, Felicia clutched onto Mary Jane as she was able to catch herself by one of the chamber's bar handles. The water flooded quickly, and now they were underneath the body of water, holding their breath till they could move.

When the flood stopped, this is when Mary Jane made her move. Holding Felicia with one arm, she managed to swim back to the surface, allowing the two women to breathe, "Holy…Can you swim?" Mary Jane asks Felicia.

"...I'm a cat," Felicia said, gathering her breath just like Mary Jane, "What do you think?"

"..No?"

They were out of the woods for now, but they still needed to try to escape the mess they were in.

---

Gotham

Peter, Jason, and Cassandra made it to the underground of the closed station that once was Jezebel plaza. Jason took the lead, assault rifle out and checked every corner when moving closer into the abandoned train station.

Peter quickly hopped above the gargoyle, having the bird's eye view of the entire station to see if there were any possible guards that Jason once fought off before. Cassandra maneuvers to a different part of the entrance, using a grate to allow her to sneak through as she uses her own detective vision to scan the area around her. Meanwhile, Jason took upon moving the front entrance, covering from corner to corner, using a similar vision like Cassandra, but more closer to a thermal vision that allowed him to see body heat whether anyone was here to begin with, or if they're nearby.

"It's clear from my angle!" Peter said.

"Clear!" Cassandra also said when exiting the gate she was in.

"Clear," Jason found himself scoffing as he didn't let his guard down not even if the area looked clean, "So far that is.."

Peter hopped to where Jason was, meeting up with Cassandra, "So how do we go from here? Assuming that everything is still in one piece to navigate to Wonder City."

"No, guessing from Bruce and your doing, everything that the Al Ghul's once had sunk in deep water," Jason said when he holstered his weapon to his shoulder, "Navigating means we're each swinging above water, jumping and watching where we crawl. Everything they built is more deep into the ocean," Peter's head looked in front suddenly as the trio then felt the earth itself shake, not enough to make them tumbling, but for each to be aware how odd that was, "...Fuck," he took back out his weapon, going back to back with both Peter and Cassandra, "Knew the bastard had something up them sleeves. Nothing is ever clear when it's this empty."

Cassandra was back to using her detective vision, switching modes via her gauntlet to track where the vibration was coming from. It came from the east from their direction, and the vibration grew and grew, "Something big…"

Peter felt his tingle already letting him know of danger. It started light, a nudge of sorts before the vibration started, and due to where his attention was at, Jason and Cassandra were ready just as he is, "I have a bad feeling of who we would be facing. But it doesn't make sense...He shouldn't be near this place."

"Who the hell this big is com- oh fuck, don't tell me it's Solomon-"

A loud roar was heard, "LOOK OUT!" Both Cassandra and Jason dodge to the side with roll while Peter simply bends back all the way to the floor to avoid a huge rock being thrown at him. The rock itself went through the old trains and a wall before it stopped. Peter backflips, jumping on top of the train cart where he can see a gray, large figure coming through the wall he broke, breathing heavily. He wore a ripped dark vested coat along with ripped dark pants, with both looking to be not only stretch out of portion, a century old from the design alone, but also look to be glued onto his own gray skin, "Grundy! It's good to see you again! You do remember me right? I know the costume is a little different bu-"

"This is no time to converse with a dead man walking Spider!" Jason had his rocket launcher out as he was ready to take him down by any means necessary.

"No wait! I can-"

Instead of trying to convince Grundy, the monster vein bulged, his yellow eyes rolled back up to his head as he let out a harling scream and charged at the trio.

---

"EVERYONE GET READY!" As Arkham Knight saw the trio of superhero top sides going against Grundy, they needed to make sure everything was prep against them while they complete the sequence of bringing back Joker, "WE NEED AN ESCAPE READY ONCE THE PROCESS IS FINISHED! BUT WE ALSO NEED EVERYONE GOD DAMN ARTILLERY ON THEM! I DON'T CARE IF WE HAVE TO BRING DOWN THIS PLACE TO DO IT, WE CAN'T LET THEM GET TO TALIA AL GHUL!"

Everyone agreed as they did their part. Meanwhile, Arkham Knight stood watching Talia suffer in silent agony of her blood being drained to rejuvenate the person they need most in their life right now, "I won't afford to lose…Not when I'm so close, so close.."

---

Kasady had his hand in his pocket. Only wearing pants as he let his shirtless body felt the cold breeze as November was reaching to a close, and felt the cold ground of the concrete as he walked with no shoes on. He found himself whistling, smiling, walking amongst the streets as nothing stopped him from where he was heading.

Whatever car was in the way, his symbiote threw it aside, destroying either cars, buildings, or whatever store was in the area. Whatever car that wanted to cross the light was also stopped, and again being tossed elsewhere.

Not to mention was the army he had with him; howling, screaming, causing a mock in Old Gotham. Kasady even had the more larger symbiotes encompass just like Jameson once was patrolling the rooftops, or walking alongside him as they too destroy whatever was in the way.

And what made things even worse was his lover, Shriek, using her abilities to once again cause just as much chaos, anarchy as she did on veterans day. With all this destruction going along the way, everyone had one designation in mind since the hero's of Gotham were nowhere to be found.

Gotham City Police Department, the one place keeping Gotham intact, the beacon of hope that must be ripped away.

---

GCPD was already notified of what was going on, and everyone of them was preparing for the worst, "EVERYONE GET INTO POSITION!" Jean Dewolf spoke. She was armed with protective gear and firearms that were specifically for Kasady and his army, "WE NEED MORE PEOPLE TOP SIDE! TAKE SNIPER POSITIONS! WE NEED PEOPLE COVERING THE FRONT, BACK, AND OUR SIDES! WE CAN'T EXPECT THE LIKES OF SPIDER-MAN AND THE REST OF THE BAT FAMILY TO BACK US UP!"

"WHAT YOU MEAN CAN'T EXPECT?! HOW THE FUCK CAN-"

"HANDS ON DECK! NO TIME TO FOR SECOND GUESSING!" Commissioner Akin spoke, "EVERYONE ON POINT NOW! WE DON'T KNOW WH-"

"INCOMING!"

"EVERYONE TAKE CO-"

A bus was sent through the GCPD, making an opening and being hurled through the place. Jean heard the screams coming from that bus, she heard the cries coming from her place knowing people had died from that sudden attack, and Jean knew what she and anyone that doesn't run, was gonna be facing. Jean, and majority of the GCPD was able to get clear, or at the least were conscious to take cover as Kasady was drawing closer.

Kasady had a clear view of an opening for him, and his army to kill each and every GCPD that was held up in their building. The likes of his more symbiote army took the roof, slaughtering every officer that was on the roof's as they were gonna make sure to go from top side, to the lower levels.

"SORRY TO CRASH IN UNINVITED!" Kasady screamed out, "BUT I JUST HAD TO MAKE MY MOVE WHEN I NOTICED THE SPIDER AND HIS BAT FAMILY IS NOWHERE TO BE FOUND IN GOTHAM! TAKING A MOVE RIGHT OUT OF THE ARKHAM KNIGHT BOOK! IT'S HIS FAULT REALLY! HE SHOULD KNOW I WANT HIM TO COME OUT AND PLAY! AND YOU PIGS WILL HAVE TO DO!"

"FIRE AT THE SON OF BITCH! WE'RE NOT GONNA DIE HERE!" Commissioner Akin shouted, with everyone agreeing and doing their part to push them back.

They got a few shots in some of the army, but it wouldn't be enough, because Kasady made sure his army was stronger and faster then before. He had some firing with their own weapons, tossing grenades and such to make it harder for the GCPD to counter back. Meanwhile, he also had his more larger symbiotes jumping into the GCPD, doing just the amount of killing and eating whatever cops were in the way.

Luckily, Dewolff, Akin, and their cops didn't back down, whoever could stand the line used not only sonic weapons, but fire artillery to hurt or burn the suits when they weren't fast enough to avoid the damage. The sonic appears to be less effective, and they mostly restored to using fire instead. Of course, as much as they could take down these larger hordes of symbiotes, Kasady and his army drew nearer.

And it didn't help that Shriek was using her telepathic abilities to control some of the cops to shoot one another, "SHIT NO!" Commissioner Dewolff had to do what was necessary and shoot her comrades from killing one another, "Fuck fuck fuck…" Commissioner Dewolff tried to stay calm, but being normal against these heightened forces did not make it easier.

But she had to keep fighting, till the very end, that's what it meant to be part of the GCPD. She moved from cover to cover, assisting her policeman against the larger hordes of symbiotes, trying to fight back against the forces that were slowly but surely coming their way.

And she can hear the screams going upstairs, regardless of what she was doing, there was absolutely no way she, or the people in the building could get out alive. But she had to keep fighting. Commissioner Akin was right near her, reloading his weapon, "I'm not dying here today," he said to her, "I don't care if they're god like beings, I'm not dying," he look to her, "We're not dying you hear?"

Dewolff nodded, "Even so, I rather die doing what I believe is right than running."

Then the oddest thing happened, the hordes of symbiotes that were in the upper level were thrown to Kasady. Shriek had to move them away before it hit any of the army, and then, a green laser beam drew a line before them.

From what Commissioner Dewolff and Akin can see, a woman came flying down, standing before the army, "..S-starfire?"

Koriand'r stood before the army, but was close enough to the GCPD so she could make sure everyone was ok, "Please officers, if you can retreat please do. I will handle this."

Koriand'r would then levitate closer to the army. Dewolff chuckled to herself, she couldn't believe that all of the people came just in time to save everyone from being killed, "Thank god…" Dewolff muttered to herself.

"EVERYONE WHO'S ALIVE! REGROUP! WE'RE GETTING OUT OF HERE! AND SEE IF ANYONE IN THAT BUS BACK THEIR IS ALIVE!" Commissioner Akin shouted as he and Dewolff made sure to round up as many people alive away from the massacre.

Koriand'r green eyes glared at the army before her, her fist tighten, just as she was just about ready to throw down against the evil before her, "I will say this once, stop your foolish intentions," She then ignited both of her hands, ready to shoot her laser beams at them, "Give up, or get lit up!"

Kasady would let out another of his whistles, clapping, and snickering, just as his sizable army laughed with him, "Wow! Holy shit! Your Starfire! Glad to be in the presence of a Titan member! But as cool as it is to see you in person…Nah," Kasady would then whistle to Shirek, gesturing for her to use her powers on Koriand'r.

But seconds would pass with nothing happening. Kasady raised an eyebrow at Shirek, noticing her jaw clenching, concentration, sweating, and growling as whatever she was trying to do wasn't working, "Uh…Babe?"

"...Can't….Pull anything out of this bitch…It's like she has no ounce of negativity in her that I can pull from, or she's immune to my abilities!"

Kasady eyes widen, feeling a similar tingling alerting him of what's gonna happen next, "Fuck me then.."

"RAHH!" Koriand'r would then blast her star bolts at them. Kasady was lucky to take some damage from them if it wasn't the bulk of his army taking the blast straight on, burning their symbiotes away from the skin.

Koriand'r would fly to them with such speed, tackling and throwing one another to them. She uses her ability to fly and avoid bullets being shot at her while she shoots more focus star bolts at her target. Her star bolts were so hot that one single blast was enough to take down the more lesser version of the symbiotes compared to Kasady.

Kasady meanwhile, let his red symbiote cover his body, readying himself to fight the Tamaranean, "I don't care what you are!" Kasady uses tendril to latch onto Koriand'r legs, and bring her down to the ground, "YOU WON'T STOP OUR CARNAGE!"

"By Tamaraneans might," she burns Carnage tendrils off her legs, "I WILL!"

"AHHH!" Carnage screamed in pain, never feeling the might of Koriandrs starbolt especially when his symbiote tried to protect him. His hands were shaking even if some bits of symbiotes were still in his hands. He needed more to keep going, enough to survive against Koriand'r attack, and all the more made him excited of the prospect to test himself against someone stronger, "BOY'S….I NEED MORE!" Some bits of the army came to him, lending their symbiote to Carnage so that he can gain back the mass he lost. And she faced off against the bulk of his army that came before her.

Meanwhile, Koriand'r didn't hold back; countering, moving, punching, and kicking, the army stood no chance of her since she also used her star bolts to her advantage, spinning and catching anyone who dared cross her.

But of course, Carnage made sure to bring a lot, and the more larger symbiotes jumped on her, tackling behind her, and tried to bring her to her knees. When that wasn't enough, Shriek mustered up a huge sonic beam. Some of the symbiote got caught in their crossfire, being blown away while Koriand'r stood her ground even when she clutched her ear.

"Gah….I WILL NOT LOSE!" Just when she was gonna dash forward, Shriek turned off her abilities so Kasady could leap into the fray.

He tackled her, she pushed him off and tried blasting him, but Carnage laughed, dodging her. Koriand'r would bring the fight to him, and she obviously was the stronger, more experienced, and faster fighter that Carnage could only barely dodge before getting dominated.

What made it difficult to fully tear apart Carnage was his multitude of armies coming into help. Koriand'r might've taken down a good portion of them, but they were like a three head snake, cut off one head, another one grow back. She had to focus her assault on them, blasting them with the star bolts, or fending them off her. Then there was Shriek using her sonic blast on her that made it annoying to deal with.

She would then take to the skies to give her a breathing room where she can focus her star bolts on them. But Kasady had other ideas; he let his army spin him around and threw him to her. Creating a small tendril, he would catch her by the neck and slam her back down to the ground. Koriand'r very nearly almost broke out, but Shriek blasted with a sonic beam, allowing for the symbiotes to pummeled her as Carnage held her up big for them to make her bleed, "Don't struggle! Actually do! Make it harder for us!"

She would try to burn the tendril around her neck, but Shriek added a dosage of her sonic beam to make it harder to do anything. Koriand'r couldn't get out because of the number of attacks that's being done to her. From losing oxygen, from her ears being torn apart, to the number of similar symbiotes like Carnage brutally clawing her body.

"..O..Racle…"

"What was that? Did you say something along the line of wanting mercy?" Carnage asked curiously.

Carnage would then feel his skull tingling, looking left and right, he didn't see anything. Till something teleported from behind, and kicked the back of his head.

Then three more people teleported to the scene; one kicking, and throwing a symbiote right over his head and straight to the concrete ground, and two others decking Shriek stopping her abilities.

Koriand'r was coughing, breathing heavily as she tried getting her senses back. Her hearing was blurred, only hearing some voice that almost reminded her of someone she was family of as her eyes started to focus on the voice, "P..eter?"

"...o, but a brother of his," her eyes saw the person she was talking too; a man in similar costume as Peter once wore, but has a large black spider covering his whole body to his shoulder, had white gauntlets on his wrist, and his legs were more blue with an ounce of red by his feet, "You ok Koriand'r?"

Koriand'r took his hand, shaking her head and standing up, "Yes…Light headed…Did you say brother?"

"Oh! We never formally met! I'm-"

"STOP TALKING RILEY AND HELP OUT!"

"YEAH YOUR THE ONE WHO WANTS US HERE IN THE FIRST PLACE!"

"GOD THIS PLACE HASN'T CHANGE NOT ONE BIT! IT'S STILL SMELLS AND LOOK AT ALL THESE…WHATEVER THEY ARE!"

Koriand'r turn to see essentially a variation of Peter. Just like the person named Riley near him, there was another man and two women that shared a similar spider persona as Peter has. This is when her eyes quickly widen, "Oh! Your Peter's spider family!"

"Eh, you could say that," Riley shrugs, "It's complicated, but we're here for him. So, shall we finish off this dance battle?"

Koraind'r smirked, "Let's shall."

Chapter 21: Family

WARNING! PLEASE RE READ FROM CHAPTER ONE TO HERE, ALL THE PREVIOUS CHAPTER HAS BEEN EDIT WITH CHANGES THAT ADDS MORE TO THIS STORY. I KNOW ITS A LOT TO ASK OF YOU ALL SINCE YOU ALL LIKELY BEEN PATIENCE WITH MY RETURN, BUT PLEASE, YOU WON'T REGRET THE WORK I'VE PUT INTO IN THE PAST CHAPTERS!

And to those who have re read the story. Welcome to the end of part 3! Read on true believers!

---

"Grundy it's me!" Peter dodges Solomon Grundy reckless attacks, bouncing and docking his hands, easily crushing the ground or the nearby old Gotham trains. He webbed under his legs, enabling him to pull and slide under him, enabling him to flip on top of his head, "Your favorite Spider!" Peter said, trying to get through to Grundy while also blinding him with his web. He made sure to bind the web to his hands, allowing him to control Grundy's movement while the likes of Jason and Cassandra worked to stop him.

Jason used a grenade barrel under his assault rifle to do increased damage. Its explosiveness didn't do much but reel the monster back while causing it to roar in annoyance as it tried to reach for Peter, "We're wasting time here! Just put him to sleep, Spider!"

"He should….!" Peter tried to keep himself away from Grundy's hand as he moved around with such elusiveness to get him off that it caused Grundy to use other forms of ways to get him off, such as smacking himself through trains, "Listen..!" When that didn't work, Solomon Grundy went for a body slam, "Oh crap!" Peter quickly let go, letting his back absorb the fall, and back flip away from the giant's huge weight coming down. With Peter off him, Grundy still went after him, trying to squash him.

But Peter was used to fighting giants, and his speed would always outwit those who were slower than him.

Meanwhile, Cassandra was analyzing a way to help Grundy as the monster knew not only Peter, but she herself and had a more friendly relationship with the creature before whatever was going on with him. Knowing that there wasn't much to see in terms of body language; just pure anger, rage, something that this creature only has if people wronged him or disturb his peace. It was then Cassandra would look deeper, using her detective mode where she saw the skeleton bones that somehow were still strong for him to move as old as this creature was, had a heart rate below 19 due to it not entirely being alive, but also, something small and deep inside his left eye.

Due to her being closer to the giant old century monster, Grundy switched his focus on her since he couldn't kill Peter. Noting her attention was now on her, Cassandra threw explosive batarangs in front of his chest as she ran from him. This only infuriated him more as he took a nearby train door behind him, and tossed it like a saw blade. Cassandra quickly got a glance behind her, quickly leapt over it and leaping over another obstacle to avoid another incoming projectile from Solomon Grundy. She was able to get to Jason who laid on the train railing with his rocket launcher at the ready, "Stab eye."

He turned to her, "What?"

She turned to him, "Stab eye. Has something…In it."

"Or how about blow him up at the core!" Jason said, gesturing to his rocket launcher in hand.

She put his weapon down, "No! Can be used…Against them!"

Jason head tilted, finding the actual thought rather insane to have a creature like Solomon Grundy helping them, "He's not known for helping anyone!"

"Unless controlled!"

"HEY GUYS!" Cassandra and Jason noted Peter holding both of Solomon Grundy fist from slamming down on him, "LITTLE… HELP! MY BACK IS STILL KILLING ME FROM HOLDING A FREAKING TRAIN…AND YES, I'M ADMITTING THAT I'M NOT OK BATWOMEN!"

Jason groaned, putting his rocket launcher back behind him and taking out a knife from his belt, "You better hope to god he actually does side with us!"

"Trust me," Cassandra said with confidence that Jason unknowingly did feel in her tone of voice.

There weren't a lot of people he could trust in this world, or even himself for that matter. But if anything, a small reminder that today brought is that he can trust just a few number of people that he got to know when he was Robin, got to know more of as a trained assassin under Talia's watchful eye, and got to know a lot more as Red Hood. And luckily, Cassandra was one of those people he knew he could trust.

Because she never lies like some.

Jason ran towards Solomon Grundy, and used Peter's shoulder as a jumping off point to leap and stab Solomon Grundy left eye. The knife impaled him, allowing the creature to roar, standing up to both feet while Jason dug just enough to where he could hear something being destroyed that wasn't the eyes of the creature. Jason pulled out his knife, seeing that there was a small device that he pulled out at the tip of the blade, "I'll be damned," Peter shot a web at Jason and pulled him away from Grundy. Flipping and landing on his feet, Jason was about ready to throw an insult at him, "Th-"

Peter shushed him as he steadily went to Solomon Grundy, groaning, hunching back a bit, but all the more looked like he was in a confused state as he shook his head a few times, "Grundy..?" His one working eye looked at him, allowing for Peter to wave at him, "Heyyyy..It's your best buddy, little Spider. Along with Batwomen!" He gestures to Cassandra walking behind him, "You remember us right?"

"We have a fre-"

Once again, Peter shushes Jason by putting his finger to his helmet where his mouth was. Grundy stood up, calming down, tilting his own head curiously, "...Little…Spider? Where…" Solomon Grundy places his gray hands on his head, rubbing whatever hair was left on his head. Then he halted, his confusion quickly turned to a frown, then anger, "No…!" his voice growl in fury at what happened to him to cause him to try to hurt his friend, "Grundy know…Grundy remember…!" Solomon Grundy now had a scowl on his expression once slamming his fist together.

"Oh boy, he's mad."

"GRUNDY SMASH OTHER BAT! RAHHH!" Grundy ran past the group, running past the wall as the three of them can hear constant smashing and water splashing.

"See," Cassandra tapped Jason from behind, "Trust me."

Jason not only chuckled, but was smirking so hard under his mask when he reloaded the magazine on his gun, "They're so fucking screwed now."

"And it makes it easy on us. Now let's go take down the Knight in one fell swoop!."

The trio went straight to the Arkham Knight headquarters.

---

Manhattan

The water began flooding up the whole entire area. There wasn't much room for them to maneuver but beside climbing to the exit. Mary Jane wanted Felicia to go up first, but because she hasn't had a single time to recover from her assault, not to mention also swimming with the help of Mary Jane, she didn't have the energy to take the lead.

Therefore, quick as she could, Mary Jane climbed the ladder to try to open the exit. The only problem was when opening up the handle, it was locked tight from the other side, "Shit! It's not opening!" Mary Jane looked back to see Felicia was just about to fall from the ladder, "NO!" She couldn't reach for her as she fell, so she went to dive back in the water to save her. Holding her breath upon entering, she noted that Felicia had just lost consciousness, and she quickly grabbed hold of her by the waist and kept her up to the surface before she could inhale any water.

Mary Jane groans at the weight of Felicia as she holds herself and Felicia by the ladder while keeping herself up float, 'Damn it! There's got to be another fucking way out of here!' Mary Jane looked around her, around the area that basically was submerged in the entity of the water. There was nothing that could aid them, nor there was not another exit point that could lead the pair out of here.

All Mary Jane could do was pray someone would come save them.

---

Dick stumbled and fell, but he got up and kept pushing. He felt tired, in pain, weak, losing consciousness by the second, but he had to keep going, he had to keep pushing. He ended up falling into the sewage that the Manhattan sewer had. And no matter how disgusted it tasted, or how it felt on his skin, it was no worse than dealing with the withdrawals from not being on venom.

His mind, his body ache for the very thing that made him what he used to be, and without it, he can feel his body failing him. He knew he shouldn't be out in the field while his body is structuring itself back to what it was before, but people's lives are in the line, and he had to do something. He had to be the one, the only one to save those two women that Peter cares about. For him, it was the only sensible way he can know he's capable of being redeemed from using venom. Dick knows how chaotic that line of thinking was, but it had to be him.

It didn't matter if it was regressing.

It didn't matter if he wasn't relying on his family.

It just had to be him, only him.

Because if he can't save them by himself, then how can he save himself?

So Dick roars out a battle cry, picking himself up from the sewage, and dash forward once more. Sprinting hard, he would jump to the other side railing, passing under other areas that led to more pathways amongst Manhattan sewer. But by keep moving to the path he was on, it didn't take him long to reach the place.

Breathing hard, in front of him was a metallic door shut type by a computer system that looked to be voice activated with an eye scanner. Dick scoffed, and took out a wire from his gauntlet, hooking it up to a nearby port system. A holographic appeared on his gauntlet as he tried hacking his way through the system without the help from Barbara.

But his mind and body was saying otherwise; his chest tightening, his heart pounding, his head banging like a bell that won't stop ringing, his bone's clutching itself together trying to keep him steady, trying to keep him strong, his eyes began to close, he felt sweat drip from head to toe, but he force himself to stand strong, keep eyes wide open, and don't fall, 'Has to be…If I…Can't do it…Then can't save…Myse-' Dick was about to fall unconscious, no matter how strong he was trying to be, there was only so much that the human body can push through before crashing.

It was then someone grabbed a hold of him from behind. Feeling the strong arms of someone lifting him up to his feet, and using his escrima to shock him awake, "AH!" His eyes bolted open, his breathing ragged, and turning behind him Dick would swing for the fences as he presume it was an enemy out to kill him. But it was only Bruce, who stopped his attack from ever landing, "This isn't just your battle Nightwing," the door leading to rescuing Mary Jane and Felicia opened up, "It's ours," Dick gritted his teeth, calmed himself, focus on breathing through his nose as Bruce let go of his arms.

Dick wanted to argue, wanted to fight back on why he was here, but he couldn't. It was as if his mind was becoming fine tuned what it should be, and instead of leaning to angest and self sabotaging, it lean on the very thing Dick was known for, and that being his genuine heart to let others help in his time in need

Dick nodded to the person who had an impact on making him the person he is now. They've both run to the deeper part of the sewer design by one of Peter's rogue gallery's, "Oracle! Any counter measure we should be-"

"Multiple defense mechanics are coming online! Move horizontally!"

Dick and Bruce did so, going to a cover position that avoided a literal chain saw being thrown in their direction, "Move now!" They did so, "Turret's coming online from diagonal positions!" Dick and Bruce threw their own projectiles just when they came online; Dick tossed his two escrima sticks, shocking the system, but bouncing from different angle's that allowed Bruce's own batarang to change trajectory into destroying each of the turrets via explosion. Dick caught one of his escrima sticks just as Bruce did the same and tossed the other back to Dick, both focused to make it to the end of the tunnel, "Trip wires!"

Bruce threw out a device that sprayed the environment to showcase where the trip mines were. Soon enough, both Dick and Bruce flipped, moved, and landed with precise position to avoid each of these intricate laid out trip mines that were plaster in different directions. Upon landing, Bruce had to groan due to feeling his old wound from getting shot by the Arkham Knight coming into play, it caused him to fumble in his own movement where his feet step over a line.

But with Dick nearby, he was able to be saved by his tackle, allowing them to avoid sudden sharp spikes to protrude through the floor. Dick would help pick up Bruce, even when he himself is still reeling from his withdrawal systems, "..I got you.."

Bruce felt himself smirk, pride in hearing his first son still looking out for him, "..You always do."

They then reach to the end, seeing Mary Jane and to a point, Felicia almost about to drown. Dick proceeded to unlock the door, but pulling it was another thing, "Gah…Damn thing is shut tight!"

"Then we do it together!" Bruce got one side of the handle while Dick allowed more space so the both could pull with all their might, "You ready?"

"Is that..Ah…Even a question?" Dick sarcastic tone of gesture comes out, even in pain.

"PULL NOW!"

Bruce and Dick with all their might, pulled and pulled till the hatch came out. With the hatch open, they see Mary Jane holding on to the ladder with dear life as the water was now reaching to the point to suffocate her, and the unconscious Felicia Hardy. Both Bruce and Dick quickly got Mary Jane and Felicia out together. But they weren't out of the woodwork just yet. The water instantly protruded out the lower level, already soaking and flooding the floor, "Can you move Miss Watson?" Bruce asked.

"Yeah! But Felicia…" She coughs out some water, and blows her nostril out as well, "..Is unconscious and I'm not sure how much water she intake!"

Dick went straight to focusing on CPR just when Bruce got into contact with both Stephanie and Tim, "How far are the both of you?"

"Nearly there!"

Just in time, Dick was able to allow Felicia to breathe and cough up the water, "Fu…Ck…" Felicia gasps to let air come back into their lungs.

The water already was beginning to flood Jackal's lair itself, and they needed to get moving. Bruce looked to stand up, but now he was having a hard time, something Mary Jane quickly noticed, "Arm's on my shoulder Mister Wayne let's go!"

Dick on his end, carried Felicia over his shoulder as the three of them moved away from the back end of the sewer. They can already see both Stephanie's motorcycle and Tim's car coming down the end of the sewer, they quickly send out both an emp wave that dismantle the traps in the area, and drifted and swerve their vehicles right near them, "Hope to god your car can fit more then three people Robin!" Mary Jane shouted

"Of course!" The back seat opens up, revealing extra seats for Bruce, Mary Jane, and Felicia, "But I won't be able to have space for you Nightwing!"

"Don't worry! I got that cover!" Dick and Mary Jane placed both Bruce and Felicia in the back seat of Tim car, "Spoiler! Hitching a ride on top of your motorcycle!"

"Are you crazy?! You can't fit in here!"

Getting Mary Jane inside Tim's car as well, Dick hopped on top of the spherical part of Stephanie's vehicle, and used his escrima stick to latch onto it, "Don't worry! NOW PUNCH IT!"

They did so, flooring it as the water began flooding up the sewers. Dick grunted, squinting his eyes as he felt the pain, the agony of his body suffering, 'Hold on…' Both Tim and Stephanie let their afterburner speed pass through a section of the sewers, 'Just…A Little,' Dick felt his hands slipping, tightness on the escrima stick began lessening, he was gonna fall if they didn't hurry up out of the sewers.

It was then they drifted to a corner, where Tim blew up a section ahead that led to the outside of Manhattan's Hudson River, and they leapt out into the ocean. The vehicles were able to not only hover and adjust themselves over the bay area, but Dick was able to stay on top of Stephanie's vehicle.

However, Dick breathing began halting, gasping, it was like he couldn't breath, "GUYS! YOU NEED TO GET DICK BACK INTO THE BELFRY! HIS HEART RATE IS BEGINNING TO DROP FROM HIS WITHDRAWALS! HE'LL SOON GO INTO SHOCK AND CARDIAC ARREST!" Barbara shouted over their com's

"I'm…"

"Shit!" Stephanie opened up her motorcycle, and pulled Dick into her vehicle, making it even more uncomfortable for Stephanie to control the vehicle due to her body having to be in a horizontal position to navigate, "Tim! Latch onto my vehicle and take over!"

"On it!" Tim pressed a few buttons to be able to get remote control over Stephanie's vehicle, "Engaging whatever power is left in your vehicle to help boost us back to Gotham!"

Tim would shift the vehicle back into driving form, the after burner making the vehicle thrust forward in such speed that it was heading back to Gotham in seconds.

Time was of the essence as now Dick life was hanging in the balance all because he wanted to no longer use something that gave him everything he wanted.

---

Gotham

Koriand'r and Peter's spider family was wiping the floor with Carnage's own army. Koriand'r being a warrior of Tameran alone could dismantle the majority of them with only Carnage being a problem. She didn't think a symbiote as him could be capable of not only hurting her, but spawning just as many creatures like him. But she was proven much about this foe, and with the help of Peter's spider family, the odds were in her favor exponentially. She would move like a bullet, punching, kicking, and outright burning the symbiotes to pieces without killing the humans either holding the beastial version of the symbiotes, or holding more small remnants of the symbiote inside them.

She even had added help with not only fighting in the skies, but blasting them from a distance from a Spider woman, "We never properly met!" Side by side, Koriand'r flew while the Spider women more so gilded as she was losing altitude, and blasting each of their enemy, "I'm basically Spider woman," they both spin out of a symbiote trying to trample them to the ground, and blast them with a counter attack, "Or call me Jessica since I don't very much care for the whole secret identity thing like my counterpart does!"

"Well met!" They landed on the ground, back to back, taking on the symbiotes, "I always wanted to meet Peter's family!" Koriand'r said with enthusiasim as he kept her focus on the battlefield.

"I wouldn't call us family," Jessica moved with fidelity and quickness, hitting at any given point the symbiotes or the more human hybrid symbiotes let out. Her attacks were precise as he struck at their necks, tossing them and blasting what seemed like bio-electricity out of her hands. Compared to Peter's own fighting style; she was ruthless in her approach with every attack was a way that could end a life if they were not durable to take it, "We're all a complicated mess that is tied to him, and even he!" Switching position, both strike, counter, and even double their attacks together as their synergy were on point, "Kinddddd of doesn't want to deal with us. But it seems things are changing I guess?" She added a shrug before blasting a symbiote away from her

"Change is good!" Koriand'r thrust out her attack, pushing the symbiotes to one another, dodging, and again, vaporizing the symbiotes. Jessica would hold hop over her shoulders, kicking one to the face, and too electrified the symbiote, purging it and letting the human be exposed before being put to unconsciousness, "And we should all be open to it."

Jessica smirks at Koriand'r optimistic response. She wore a red half mask that had a triangle shape symbol on her forehead, and it allowed her long ebony hair to be left loose in the open. Her own costume was also different, encompassing mostly in red with yellow being prominent on her hands, boots, and the center of her body and chest. Along with her costume, she also had web wings on her armpit that allowed her to glide in the air, a far departure from Peter, "No wonder everyone's love you, you're optimistic to a heart!"

Before she can respond, they ducked under a certain Spider-Man that roared with rage as he tackled the symbiote enough for it to drag and create a crater, "LESS TALKING!" He pummeled the symbiote, ripping out his tongue before jumping off the symbiote with such force it cracked the ground, "MORE FIGHTING!" he then slam both of his feet on the symbiote before pouncing onto others with furious roar as he sprung out stingers

Koriand'r was a bit bewildered by this version of Spider-Man and his more raw, animal-like, nature into combat. Unlike Jessica, every strike, every usage of his stinger-like abilities, all were dealt with such force that it startled those who didn't have the full usage of a symbiote, "So angry.."

"That's Kaine," Jessica pointed out to the red and black Spider-Man who shares a similar look to Peter, but the black ness of his mask, the red lenses, even how dominant the red was on his body made him more fearful compare to Peter, "Or tarantula that people called him in Texas. Guy still has," not forgetting to be in the fight, the two again punched, dodged, and blasted each of the symbiotes away from them, "Anger issues!"

"Look out!" Koriand'r stood forth in front of Jessica, eating bullets and a rocket launcher. With it not doing anything, Koriand'r and Jessica took advantage of this, easily taking them out with speed and precision.

"Thanks!"

"No problem!" The two heroes noticed Riley, and the other Spiderwoman were handling the likes of Carnage and Shriek. Koriand'r and Jessica both nodded to each other, pushing forward, battling against those that oppose them, and winning with the usage of Koriand'r's star bolts and Jessica bio electricity usage. Koriand'r went to help Riley with Carnage, stopping an overhead attack with his large, shape fisted that resembled a spiked pinball.

"DAMN IT! I WAS HAVING FUN WITH THE FAKE!"

Reilly flipped over Koriand'r, aiming a spinning kick to Carnage, and while he knew he would've caught it, he already had something in plan, "ERIF!" Riley shouted a cognition ability, allowing him to blast flames from his hands.

Carnage white lenses widened, moving, but still got hit by the unexpected tactic from Reilly, "WHAT THE HELL?! SINCE WHEN DOES THE FAKE KNOWS MAGIC?! THE REAL ONE DOESN'T USE THAT CRAP!"

"That's because he and I are two different interesting people with different usages of who we want to be!" Reilly commented. He then noticed the symbiote surrounding not only him but Koriand'r, "Scarlet Spider is the name, so don't wear it thin ok?"

"Gah….HOLD THEM OFF!" Carnage shouted, as he looked to control the symbiote from the unexpected fire he didn't know how or where it was coming from to dodge.

"Wow! Not even Spider-Man does magic like yourself!" Koriand'r said, feeling more and more ecstatic to learn more about the spider family even in the presence of battle.

Reilly chuckled, similarly like with Jessica, Reilly and Koriand'r worked in tangent with one another in battle. Koriand'r took note of how fluid, how elegant, and how smart this Spider-Man had fought, sharing similarities to Peter. Not only did he share the attributes, but also the costume as Peter, with the real difference was his huge spider symbol that spread across chest and tied to his back, the amount of blue that overshadow his arms and legs, but also having sides where the red and blue mix with one another, and lacking the vest and pants look Peter decided wear.

This Spider-Man was more in line with Peter than either Kane, Jessica, or the other Spiderwoman, but had just enough to be his own person with his own flair, "That's because my brother isn't keen on magic and I have a talented girlfriend that taught me well!" His magic usage allowed him to create barriers, blast symbiote away with the likes of wind, dousing some in flame, and even lighting of that matter by using his words not in a normal manner, "He did try dabbling in it and came across one of Doctor Fate's enemies. To which, made him not tempt fate of ever trying to do magic. And of course, I chose differently!" Reilly mentioned, just as he used the gauntlet that was on his wrist to whip out his own webbing, one he easily constructed like a bo, "ERIF ENIBEMOC!" And then enchanted his webbing with flames.

As he did so, the area around him, the combat he's put in only serves to lit him as the Scarlet spider he knows he is.

Meanwhile Jessica and the other Spiderwoman were neck deep into their own battle, "Hanging in their Mattie?"

"Secret identity!" She shouted as she lit up what seemed like four amber-like spider legs coming from her spine in her own bioelectricity, and let it loose on the symbiote around her. Unlike the other spider comrades, Mattie seemed to have less experience in terms of fighting due to doing incoherent attacks that fundamentally shouldn't work. But with her bioelectricity and the usage of her spider legs, those incoherent attacks either becomes coherent, a fake for something else, or allowed her to keep moving as she was able to soar to the sky's similarly like Koriand'r, and come crashing down for a humongous electricity blast.

"I'm so not calling you Spider woman!"

"I am!" She argued with Jessica as they worked side by side with one another. What was ironic enough is that she share a similar costume design as Jessica; her short hazelnut hair was out in the open, she had a half mask on that didn't hide her mouth, but the real difference was slick red and navy blue costume with the blue covering most of her body, and the red only covering her spider symbol on her chest to her back. Mattie then noticed Shriek readying her sonic wave. With her arms crossed and her spider legs crossing around Jessica, she focused her bio electricity to create a barrier around them, enough so it didn't do the damage it should normally do, "I earned the title of Spider woman just as much as you did!"

Shriek released her sonic waves in their direction. Mattie grunted at the power of her sonic wave, moving her footing just a bit, but it wasn't enough as she held her ground with all her might. And once it was done, Mattie would repel back with own blast, "TRY THIS INSTEAD!"

Shriek had no time to react or move, but luckily, her partner Carnage swooped in to save her, "We have to retreat!"

"I fucking notice! Damn it!" Carnage felt that familiar tingling sensation, someone was trying to attack them, "OH WHAT FUCKING NOW?!"

Turning his head, he saw the red and black Spider, Kaine, leaping at him, with his stingers out. Carnage whipped his body away to avoid him, landing back on the ground and moving Shriek behind him. He then ran towards Kaine, hands grew to intensive his claws as he let it drag on the concrete ground, "COME ON THEN! THERE'S ONLY ONE SPIDER-MAN I WANT AND NONE OF YOU ARE HIM!"

Kaine too ran towards him, stinger at the ready, "THEN YOU'VE GOTTEN THE APEX VERSION OF HIM!" Carnage looked to swipe Kaine, left, right, all easily dodged, "Pathetic."

"DON'T YOU DARE MOCK ME!"

Mocking him was the point, as Kaine observed that this little comment had left an opening where he sent his stinger straight to his ribs. It impaled, causing Carnage to moan in agony from the attack as he switched his claws to a scythe, trying to take his head off, but only hit air as Kaine ducked under. Kaine pushed to the offensive; using his elbows and legs instead of his hands, causing Carnage to now dodge, block and try to fight back. But one odd thing that infuriated Carnage was the fact that his kicks, knee's, elbows, and even his stingers, all these were surprisingly stronger then whatever Peter dished out in his fight, 'No…Fucking way is this fake stronger then him! HOW?!'

In his own thoughts of annoyance, Carnage didn't listen to the buzzing sensation that told him an attack was coming. Kaine would thrust his stinger straight to his heart, "AHH!"

"You feel that..?" Kaine slowly said, "The pain of knowing you're losing? How does it feel..?"

Kaine would go to insert his other stinger right through his head, but this time Carnage blocked with his now shifted hands, "Gahhh…!" Carnage of course felt pain, fighting against Peter and his own Bat family proved that even if his symbiote is stronger than where it was born from, he can feel pain. But once more, it angered him to no end that a clone of Peter was doing this amount of damage to him, and worse.

He was toying with him, "...YOUR….Not stronger than him…!"

Kaine moved his head closer to Carnage, "Or maybe I am…Because I got something he doesn't have," he said in a low, volatile tone.

"FUCKK…..OFF!" With all his strength, Carnage head butted Kaine off him, sending him tumbling and straight into the GCPD building. With a ferocious roar, Carnage went after him inside the GCPD. They're battle had them moving around the now destroyed building that was a beacon of hope for Gotham no matter how troublesome it was in the past. Carnage kept shifting his body from multiple weapons, trying to hit the elusive tarantula. But due to Carnage not having the same level of experience as Kaine, his attacks left him quite open.

Kaine would bounce around, striking from all, ceiling, flipping and moving around the area that even had them scaling to the upper levels of the GCPD building. Carnage had a hard time hitting him all because he was frustrated to no end that everything was more clumsy than at least precise compared to when he faced Peter. The worst part that Kasady didn't realize was that Kaine and the other Spider's spider sense worked perfectly on him and the symbiote.

Since they never bonded with the symbiote's father, Venom, "How the hell you gave my better half the trouble is beyond me!" Kaine flipped to a railing, allowing his body to curve, balance on the railing as he let his heel smack Carnage on the chin, "You can't fight for crap! And your only real power is that stupid suit of yours!"

Carnage growls, the attack causing him to go off balancing and having to stick on the nearby wall before pouncing to Kaine, "I'M STRONGER AND FASTER THAN HE EVER IS!"

Kaine duck low, sending his back on the floor to sprung both of his feet to push him behind. Kaine, rolling backwards on the floor, not wanting to let his offense stop right here and right now. He let his fist do the talking; striking at Carnage from his head and body, he might have dodged a few, trying to strike back, but Kaine didn't stop his onslaught, "YEAH?! WHAT GOOD IS BEING STRONGER AND FASTER WHEN YOU DON'T KNOW HOW TO USE IT?!"

Carnage clutched both of Kaine's hands, "YOUR NO APEX PREDATOR. JUST A FAILURE OF CLONE THAT WAS SUPPOSED TO DIE!"

Their standoff, their struggle in power, began cracking the floor beneath them, "And guess what," out of nowhere, his stinger push through, allowing Carnage to screech in pain, and somehow, Kaine started dwarfing Carnage in turn of power, having him on his knees, "I KNOW HOW TO USE POWER," Kaine said, his voice becoming deeper with a snarl in each of sentence, as if he undergone a small transformation of sorts, "And I don't hold back as much compare…TO HIM!"

Kaine tossed Carnage back outside, yet his suit had enough strength to use its tendril to grab hold of Kaine, taking him outside that allowed him to be tossed further away from the fight. Carnage tumbled and rolled on the ground, he might've been able to get onto his knees, but he was feeling it all. For the first time, he had to catch his breath. He felt the symbiote working overtime not only healing him, but also taking care of what seemingly is poison that Kaine stabs into him multiple times. Whether he can control it or not, Carnage couldn't care if that was the case, because around him, he saw half, if not, almost all his army being taken care of by the heroes.

Deep down, it terrified him to see everything he built up, was coming crashing down. It didn't matter he had more in his storage, more people to help with him. He can't do anything if this is what would happen when taking on not only Peter and his Bat family, but the alien Tamaranean and his Spider family. It's as Kaine said, what good is being stronger and faster when he doesn't know how to use it?

It also hurts his ego that two clones, two Spider woman, and an alien are able to cripple his army with ease. Everything from this point on was being destroyed by other heroes, or fake versions of the real Spider-Man. And that only served to piss off Kasady to no end that he was scared of losing, he all the more hated losing a battle he should win regardless of who stood before him.

It made no sense that with the power he has, with how much he learned, he was losing to a bunch of fakes, higher powered alien, and not the real deal, not Peter Parker, not the real Amazing Spider-Man, "...I WON'T LOSE HERE!" He shouted with all his might

Before Kaine could do anything as he came rushing back to Carnage, he was blasted away by tendrils that were moving all about from Kasady's body. Each moving, and ricocheting to whatever symbiotes he can still grab for himself. It didn't go unnoticed to the other heroes as it seems like Kasady was trying to either produce, or something compulsive that would hurt the area they're in.

While the officers have left the scene, whatever Kasady could affect other blocks that held civilians.

Seeing what was happening, Shriek had to make sure to stop either of the hero's from trying to hurt her partner. She couldn't corrupt the Spider people only because they have the same protection as Spider-Man did back in the Gazette battle. There wasn't anyone near the now destroyed GCPD building, or the area around her to be able to use them to their advantage.

But the only thing she could do was use her sonic wave ability. Mustering up whatever strength she had, she moved to her partner, "Sorry babe…" She got in front of him, "But this might hurt a lot..."

"JUST DO IT! I NEED TIME!"

Breathing in and out, she placed her hand to the ground, and blasted out a continuous wave of her sonic ability, one that instead was more focused on disrupting the hearing of the hero's. To which, it was doing its job; affecting the likes of Jessica and Koriand'r the most with how well adaptive their hearing was compared to Kaine, Ben, and Mattie. But all the more, each we're clutching their ear's tightly, feeling it bleed.

It was not until Ben was able to mutter out a cast under his breath as he endured the pain blistering in his ear, "Gah….Tcaretn….UOC!" Putting emphasis on his cast, he made sure to redirect her attack to her.

"AHHH!" Shriek screamed loud as her own attack was now plunging inside her.

"NO NO NO! I WON'T LOSE TO ANY OF YOU! GAHHHHHHH!"

Carnage slammed his fist multiple times, letting out the amount of mass he absorbed from his army, killing most if not all of them and then slammed his fist hard enough one last time to the ground where he let out a huge red mass of tendrils that went in every direction. His own screams, frustration, anger, rage, everything he felt was poured into his attack. It was enough that it got each hero moving, dodging, and tearing part these vials of tendrils.

"EVERYONE TO ME!" The scarlet spider shouted. In a span of second's, the rest of the spider family came to him along with Koriand'r that made sure to destroy each tendrils that was swarming around them, "REIRRAB!" An orange field of barrier protected them from the tendrils, each of them trying striking through it as Riley held with the palm of both his hands to keep the barrier in place.

But everyone noticed the tendril's next objective wouldn't be them, but the city if they don't do anything right now, "BEN!"

"I KNOW JESS! KORIAND'R! JESS, MATTIE! FIRE AT THEM! KA-"

"I DON'T TAKE ORDERS FROM YOU!"

"I KNOW SO DO YOUR THING WHILE I CONJURE UP SOMETHING HERE!"

Kaine would move out from the barrier, letting the tendrils try to attack him. Koriand'r, Mattie, and Jessica would fire each of their projectiles through the barrier that Ben allowed. Under his breath, Ben focuses his mind, body, and spirit in terms of seeking and wanting to destroy each of these massively sized red tendrils.

And with the people around him helping him, it allowed him to do what he must to protect his brother home, "NRUB!" Ben's shout came out like a force to be reckoned, as all the tendrils began burning and disappearing in place. There were loud screeches and screams coming from these tendrils that were remnants from Carnage symbiote.

Even if they were moving closer to where people were, it didn't matter as Ben made sure every inch of them was burned to cinders. In doing so, the battle was indeed over and Ben was allowed to catch his breath and stop the barrier around them.

He let out a heavy sigh as he almost fell to the floor, but was caught by Mattie and Jessica as he put both arms around their shoulders, "Phew…Zatanna is gonna have a field day when she hears how much I push…" He stifle in pain, "..Everything hurts…Ow.."

"Hey you said you had a plan ole wise one," Jessica said with snark in her voice.

Mattie saw the area around her. Upon the destruction of the GCPD, the area that once held multiple police cars and such, lay bodies that were the people that she and the other heroes fought off, "Are they…?"

"They're unfortunately all dead," Koriand'r said, confirming that all the people that we're here to support Kasady were now dead on the field they were in.

"Good riddance," Kaine said as he swung down to them, "Now you can get us the hell out of here."

"No…Can do," Ben said, shaking his head, "He needs us."

"Everyone of them need's us," Koriand'r added, "Now more than ever. So we can't leave, not now."

Kaine could only scoff at the pretentious people was once again surrounded with.

---

The Arkham Knight knew what was going on, knew that they were on borrowed time. After all, they were going against the Bat family of all people, but with the Spider by their back and calling. Even in their darkest moments; their will, stubbornness, and courage have prevailed regardless of how much their past traumatizes their present.

But they can't lose, they can't afford to lose, not when they're so close to their own goal. The Arkham Knight is well aware of the Spider, the Bat, and the Red hood having able to appeal to the creature. They knew it would happen, but it was all in the means to buy them more time for him, the clown prince of crime, to come back from the dead.

Talia's own body dangled like if she was already dead, but she wasn't, the slight twitches on her body indicated so. Due to the drainage of her blood, she looked more thin, her skin had wrinkles, her hair now was gray, the loss of her blood along with the pint of Lazarus in her was taking its course. What was once a woman that was the leader of the league of assassins, now is a woman with no ounce of life in her to be able to lead and conquer with such force.

Her time was drawing near, and that was making the Knight's day. The Arkham Knight saw the Joker skin becoming more clear as time went on, his neck being adjusted properly, and the Knight can even see his own body rigid in motion, breathing in and out. And before the Arkham Knight knew it, his eyelids blinked as it was shut.

And then suddenly open.

They did it, they finally did it, they were able to bring back the Joker from the clutches of the death door. The Arkham Knight placed their hands on the chamber, "Father…You're alive…Finally..!" The other hand taps the side of their helmet, allowing it to take part of it off.

The Joker might've been alive but he was still dazed from being dead. The effects of the Lazarus coming from Talia wasn't the same as the pit, and they had to make a lot of calculations into how to be able to bring him back properly. The Knight even knew of the possibilities of their being some major side effects bringing back a dead man such as him without proper usage of Lazarus. But they had to do anything and everything they could, without costing their life or their soul, to bring him back. The Joker was able to see who was under the mask of the Arkham Knight; seeing their bold eyes, their excitement and pride, and even when dazed, his smile came through.

The smile they wanted, that made them smile. The smile he used when he was alive, when they knew of him when he was everything to them. He chuckled, giggled hysterically, coughing, but still laughing just as the Knight did the same on their end. Without the helmet and its tech to disguise their voice, their own laughter wasn't as sinister, but soft, bumbly, one that expressed their own happiness, "Finally…" The Knight spoke quietly, soft and light in tone, "After all…These years, we're together..!"

"...Dy…n…amic….Duo…." The Joker spoke incoherently.

"YES! YOU REMEMBER ME!" Their sense of glee was heightened even further upon the Joker recognizing them. But this moment to moment was short lived due to a loud explosion that came from the back, a loud roar being heard that caused the Knight to put on their helmet, "NO! NO NOT NOW! I JUST GOT YOU BACK!" The Arkham Knight growled in frustration, punching the chamber, but not enough to break it or crack it. They then look up to Joker, who still smiles at them, still laughing and coughing at the same time.

The Arkham Knight couldn't afford to lose, not here, and not now, not when they're so close, "..You won't die again. I swear!" They then move away from the chamber, moving towards the battle as they grab their sword and shield from the table, "I WON'T LET THEM WIN!"

With that in mind, their goal clear as day, the Arkham Knight step into the middle of ongoing warfare. The monster that was Solomon Grundy was destroying and taking apart their army one by one. The tanks they had and their army was using against them were supposed to be able to take him head on. But there was a problematic situation on the horizon.

The monster had Spider-Man by his side; who swung, flipped, moved around their base with speed that no one can hit him with, and used his own piece of technology to give his allies the advantage they needed. Essentially, Solomon Grundy and the Spider was the distraction, and the real threat was Batwomen and Red Hood, "ALL UNITS! PROTECT AND SECURE THE DELTA ZONE! WE CAN'T LET NONE OF THESE PEOPLE SAVE TALIA!" The Arkham Knight said over their comm's, but unfortunately for them, all they got was static, "UNIT 1?! 2?! 3?! ANYONE?! FUCK!"

The Arkham Knight couldn't have time to think of a strategy at the moment as the Spider had their eyes on them. While in mid air, he went to swing at them, wanting his feet to find his mark on them. But the Arkham Knight was swift to evade, and look to swipe his head off with their sword in hand. But Spider-Man didn't let it happen, letting go of his web, anchor his neck to the side to evade the blade, and roll on the floor where the Knight and Spider were going toe to toe as the army was way too focused on the monster before them, "Sorry for my friend here!" Spider-Man said, pointing at Grundy who lifted and threw a tank to another area, causing the base to shake in its utter power, "But you shouldn't have made him angry! Now you won't like him at all!" The Knight had no time for his quip, roaring and moving forward, they went through quick sessions of attack, trying to land an attack. Yet it didn't land one bit, as the Spider knocked the blade out of their hands with a single slap to the back of their own hand.

And sent one overhead strike to their helmet. This rocked the Arkham Knight, denting their helmet, and had them falling on the floor. It allowed them to grab their sword, roll back to their feet as they had their shield at the ready. They circle one another in the midst of chaos, gun shooting, things blowing up, the Knight's own base shaking and things becoming more and more unbalanced as the hero invasion keeps being ongoing, "Jeez, watching you fight suggests you have a vendetta issue going on."

"Mock me at your peril! I WON'T LOSE TO ANY OF YOU!" The Arkham Knight charges forward, "I WON'T FAIL HIM!"

"Fail him?" Peter once more dodge and flip over the Knight, kicking them behind as they were in motion. He webbed them from behind to pull them to him. In response, the Knight went for a lunging strike that Peter stepped aside to land a vicious knee that once more made them drop their weapon. Peter held them in a position, one hand by neck, and the other hand by their shoulder, "Prey tail who? Otherwise this is gonna hurt more than you want," Peter interrogated.

It was then his own senses buzzed in his head harder than it was already, having him to look at the side and seeing a tank trying to blow him up. Acting fast, he pushes the Knight and himself away to avoid the incoming blast. There were even some of the Knight forces trying to gun him down with various of their weapons. But thanks to Grundy, once more focusing on the heavier enemy, and his soon to be wife coming into the fold by striking fast, moving in and out, to take down those that were focused on him.

He wasn't gonna lose this fight at all, "Thanks babe!" He shouted, "Tagging out! The Knight is all yours!" He said as he took the focus back on the Knight's forces.

She nodded, rushing to the Knight that was already on their feet and trying to get back to Joker. But now, they had to deal with Batwomen that leapt at her for a swift that they blocked with their shield. Now once more, it was the bat and the Knight going against one another, "THIS WON'T BE MY END!"

"It is, will be. Can't win," Batwomen pointed at the Knight, "You lose."

The hero and villain clashed once more, with their own battle being vastly different from the two times they fought. Each time they fought, the Arkham Knight always had just a bit of edge to tip the balance in their favor, allowing for their plan to succeed. But this time it was different, now it was the Bat who had the edge over them. And as it has been proven, their own combat showcase bat has the edge.

Dodging then strike.

Parrying then exposing.

Use offense that destroyed their defense.

And let their emotions get the best of them.

Unlike before, the Knight had no way to win, not this time, regardless if they kept getting up, kept fighting, kept trying to not accept the fact that they lost, they were losing this fight. With all the plans, their victories, it meant nothing when the Bat family finally was able to make a push that outmaneuver them. It didn't matter how broken they were, how lost they were, how much work they had to do to mend everything back together.

They're family, and a family holds tight, holds fasts, holds strong in the dark times. Something no villain will ever take away from them, "Slow," Batwomen dodge, "Emotional," Batwomen implanted a plethora of strikes that the Knight try to either withstand or block with their shield, but proved useless against the likes of Batwoman as she used electricity through her gauntlet to inflict more damage, "Angry," she noted of the constant growl's, roar, muttering of needing to win, "Flawed," Batwomen unveil each weakness every time they did try to do something, sending them right to the floor where they pick themselves and try to fight back once more, "Imperfect," Batwomen kicked their blade away, letting it be send straight to a wall, elbow their chest, before swiping their shield where they sweep them off their feet, and then plant their feet on their chest, "You learned from mother…But not enough."

Batwomen can see all the damage she placed on the Knight's armor; their helmet scattered and couldn't form their usual tech hue facade they always have on, their armor was battered in each layer with even some being cracked. It was enough so to send a message to the Knight.

A message that you don't fuck with the Batfamily unless your ready for war.

Meanwhile, the Arkham Knight took note of the area around them; for one,, their base was beginning to fall apart, they had multiple notifications coming from the hud that each place that was meant to hold up their base was blown up and destroyed. And this had to do with one other person that they haven't seen.

Red hood.

"N…NO!" The Arkham Knight shouted flicker between disguise and not disguise, but it mattered not to them right now. They took out a grenade and with a push of a button, tossed it at Batwomen. With no time to process it, it exploded, separating the two. The Arkham Knight was sent flying, crashing straight to a wall. The Knights armor has been through a lot already, and it's going through even more as its armor began showing more wear and tear. Just from the explosion alone, the Knight's helmet began to fully go haywire that they couldn't see a thing.

As they pick themselves up, they manually rip their helmet off and begin running to where Joker was at. Stumbling, even falling due to being disoriented from the suicide explosion. The Knight's own hearing was coming in and out, their own literal head felt like it was on fire, but once more, they stood up and kept moving to where they had to be at.

Yet they didn't have a sword, and found their shield and pistol through the area that was covered from smoke and debris. The Knight made it back to where the Joker was at, seeing Talia was out of her captivity, but also seeing the Red Hood with his rocket launcher pointing at their father, "NO!"

"BURN IN HELL YOU PIECE OF SHIT!"

Time seemed to slow for the Arkham Knight. They lift their pistol pointing at the Red Hood, but due to still being dazed she ends up missing their shot, and in the process, allows him to have the opportunity to launch the rocket at him, destroying the chamber, and fully killing the joker.

Once and for all.

The Knight cyan eyes could only stare in shock of seeing their father, the person that they only could see as their father, the person they've always wanted to be reunited with, the person they work so hard to bring back, now fully dead, and there was no coming back from what Red Hood did. In retaliation, their eyebrows shrewd, their teeth clenched, and they began shooting ruthlessly into Red Hood direction.

Red Hood would move himself and the almost lifeless Al Ghul to cover, one where he pressed a few buttons in his gauntlet that triggered a series of planned explosions. Not being aware of this, once more, The Knight took an explosion head on, sending them flying out of the delta room, rolling to the ground.

Along with other explosions that were going on in the area, the old flooring of what used to be Wonder City, began giving their weight out, and in the process, made the Knight fall into the deep waters.

Lucky for them, they manage to cop their helmet in time. But what good would that do when they've lost. For them, death seemed like the only thing they wanted right now, knowing their father was dead.

Their mission was a complete failure.

---

With the Knight fully dealt with, Jason pressed forward with Talia, but she was very weak and he had to proceed carefully as he got into a few gun fights he manage to take care of with ease, "Hang in there," he told her, "You're not dying, not right now."

"...Jason…"

"Shut the hell up!" He was now back in the battlefield, managing to avoid the explosion and get him and Talia to cover as he kept firing with precision at the Knight's forces, "Let me and the other's focus on an escape route!"

"...You have to…Kill me…" She said weakly.

"FUCK THAT! WE WORK TOO HARD TO GET YOU OUT ALIVE," He shouted at her before lowering himself and turning to the now deformed version of the woman that had a play into shaping the man he is today, "AND I'M NOT GONNA KILL YOU."

Cassandra came through, assisting him, but not killing the Knight force's, "She ok?"

"Barley! Help me out here!" Cassandra took the reign of escorting Talia, "Ok! How the hell are we getting out of here?!"

"Follow me!"

Jason did so, covering her back when moving forward. He reloaded his magazine, but in doing so almost got caught blindsided if it wasn't for Peter webbing up his foe and tossing him to the side. What he also noticed was Peter webbing up a large amount of the Knight's force into a sort of web bag and tossing them far aside.

One where as they head deeper into the crumbling Knight's base, was a submarine, "Oh hell no Parker! Leave them to die!"

"Not a chance!" Peter responded, whoever he got was being picked up by Grundy, who filed each and everyone of them in the submarine.

"WE DON'T GOT TIME FOR THAT! THE PLACES IS FALLING APART!"

Peter landed near the three people, looking around for whoever else was alive, "Where's the Knight?"

"Gone," Cassandra spoke, "I saw her…Thrown into the deep," she then pointed to what's below them.

Suggesting that they fell into the deep ocean of Gotham river, "Damn..She?"

"NO TIME! WE GOT A BITCH TO SAVE REMEMBER?!"

Peter would help Cassandra with Talia, taking them into the submarine, "Come on Grundy!"

Grundy follows the hero into the submarine. His own weight and height was somehow able to fit and keep the places a float, for the time at least, "Why Grundy had to save them when they hurt Grundy?!" He asked.

"Because they'll be able to face justice for hurting Grundy!" Peter said, as he went over to start up the submarine, "Ok so this is the-" pressing a button started the engine, "Ok…" Even with the sounds of more explosions, debris even falling on top of the submarine, it didn't unnerve Peter as he was perplex on how to start up this type of submarine.

And that annoyed Jason, "HURRY IT UP!"

"I'm trying to figure this out!"

"WE DON'T GOT TIME, PUSH EVERY BUTTON!"

"It could be the wrong one!"

It was then Cassandra dial up a side on her end, and then push a specific button that started up the submarine. The two hero's stared at her, a bit shocked she even knew how to start up the submarine, "Old submarine…Bruce taught me…How to navigate vehicles..Remember?"

"Oh, right, wanna take the wheels then captain oh captain?"

"Yes!"

Cassandra did so, starting up the machine and getting them out as the once wonder city, the once headquarters for the bat in the sun, was now all but destroyed along with everything the Knight wanted to build.

The hero's had indeed won, a victory well deserved on their end.

---

It was close to night time as each hero had a breather of sorts from the battle they've been part of. The like's of the Spider family and Koriand'r help rebuild the GCPD place with the help of mostly coming from Ben's usage of magic, Koriand'r heavy lifting, and the other Spider's adding their own additional help whether through building, or giving aid to those that were hurt.

Bruce, Tim, and Stephanie brought the likes of Mary Jane, Felicia, and Dick back to the Belfry tower to have them be overseen to their health. Mary Jane was in better condition compared to Dick and Felicia. Felicia, while still unconscious, mostly suffers physical damage and such that sleep and rest will help in her recovery. But Dick was quickly taken care of the second they entered Belfry due to him going through withdrawal. The Belfry tower was equipped with just enough medical equipment to provide support for Dick in his withdrawal, and similar to Peter not too long ago, he was in a deep sleep, almost in a coma with how much he pushed himself when he shouldn't.

Lastly, Peter, Cassandra, and Jason made sure the GCPD would take the amount of the Knight's army into custody along with the capture of their submarine. They had a brief encounter with the other commissioner, Michael Akin, who commended heroes, but it felt like he was biting through his teeth mostly. As if he didn't want to congratulate them, but had to since they did what they couldn't do with how much is going on in the city. While Cassandra and Jason oversaw it, Peter would help escort Solomun Grundy back to the sewer so no one else would be bothering him.

He even gave him some food, to which, the restaurant owners were terrified if it wasn't for Peter telling them that he's a big softy.

With everything done and done, Peter would find himself back into the Belfry Tower, swinging from the entrance on the top that was manually open. Swinging and landing on the top level, he can see everyone was here, in one piece, or in recovery mode. In front, he can see the Bat family; Bruce nodded to Peter's appearance as he picked up Barbara in her slumber to go rest her somewhere comfortable. Selina was busy trying to take care of Jason but he didn't want to, but luckily Stephanie and Tim held him in place as they talked about something entirely that was beyond Peter. The four of them did note Peter's appearance; Stephanie, Selina, and Tim waved at him, smiling at his appearance, while Jason looked away and suffered in silence. And of course the likes of Cassandra rushed to him, hugging him and kissing him. To the right, he can see his Spider family, with the likes of Ben smiling, waving and clapping at Peter to see him with a wonderful person by his side. Jessica would give a small smile as she talked to Mattie about something, who paid no mind to Peter, and Kaine was more by the training area looking to keep his fighting sharp for what comes next. Peter especially saw Koriand'r by the medical side that was near the training area along with Mary Jane, who was resting near the sleeping form of Dick, Felicia, and Talia. Koriand'r smiled at his presence, while Mary Jane did the same as both would move closer to the area.

Peter couldn't help but be in the pleasant space of everyone around him here. And each and everyone he knows he has a lot to do into working on making sure his bond with them all is only gonna stay and grow strong from here on out. Cassandra would give Peter space as he went to his Spider family first, "It's uh goo-ugh!" Ben would quickly give him a hug, a strong one that picked him up, "Yea yea! Good to see you too Ben!" Peter was still in the air, causing light chuckles to go around from various people, "Put me down please?"

He did so, still holding his grin, "Had to do it."

"No you didn't, I think you might've popped something wrong from that hug!" Peter said while stretching his back.

"Don't be a wuss," Ben chuckled.

"I'm so not! But…Yeah, glad to see you again, and you two girls!" Peter almost shouted to get Jessica and Mattie's attention, "I know I'm not someone that is on the top of your well liked list, but I am glad you all came to help when you didn't need to."

"Thank Ben," Jessica said, "I always assume you're better off doing things on your own no matter what's happening," she placed one hand on her hip, "You had a knack of saying and showing it often in the past."

"Yeah…" Peter frowned, not proud of how he treated Jessica in the past, "Not my proudest moment. I'm hoping I can change that this time around since this fight isn't over. Or if…You all can stay.."

Jessica sighs, "Go figure, well we're here now. While Ben and I don't detest you as much as her," she lightly tapped Mattie's shoulder, "And the other guy," she gestured to Kaine, "Kind of hard, at least in my case to be around you after what happened when we all last saw you."

Peter rubs the back of his neck knowing he has so much to make up for now they're here, "I know, saying sorry won't do it justice. I just hope you all can stay a little longer and maybe…Maybe I can try to make up for how I treated you, and disregard all of you from my life."

"..Is my uncle ok?" Mattie asked, finding the voice to at least make her presence more known.

Peter looked at her, unlike Ben and Jessica, who's masks were off, Mattie kept her on just like Kaine did, "Yeah, he's in the hospital right now…But he might be facing charges with him admitting the harm he had done in our fight."

"Oh…Hm.." Mattie looked away with the only thing being recognized is her frown.

"I'll do what I can to smooth things over with the court," Peter said, "I know I'm all over the place right now, but I'll make the time."

"No, if what he did and said is real, and likely is," Mattie looked up to Peter, "Then he should face some sort of justice for that. Simple as that."

It hurt Peter to hear her say that. While she wasn't wrong, Peter couldn't help but not share her agreement since he always believed people deserved a second chance to right the wrong they had committed. Yet he won't fight with her on this, right now, the focus should be getting his Spider family comfortable here, "Well…While we do have space here for everyone since I know Tim and Bruce built a lot of rooms just in case for a time like this. The clocktower has room for any of you if you're not comfortable to be around the Bat family and I. And again, I don't want to force any one of you to stay here if you don't have to. I do will like the help but if-"

Ben put his hands up, stopping Peter rambling that would've been about people's choice and feeling comfortable or not comfortable with it, "Dude, we're here. I made sure everyone would be here for you. And plus," Ben shrugs his shoulders, "It's what we do bro. Doesn't matter our difference or what happen in the past, if you help someone-"

"You help everyone," Peter finished, having him sight just a little, "God I miss her.."

"Same here," Ben held his hands on his brother's shoulder, "You're not alone on that."

And again he's reminded of that. That he isn't alone with fighting, dealing with trauma, and trying to be a better individual on all fronts. Just like the resemblance beyond the yellow short blond hair, Ben shares the same type of optimism Peter has, only without the doubt and the clear focus on positivity, "You think Kaine would stay though?" Peter asked.

"Prrrrrrrrrrrrrrobaly?" Ben responded.

"Uhhhh…" Jessica found herself being unsure.

"Just turn around," Mattie said.

Peter raised his eyebrow, finding him looking at him with Jason shouting at him due to him messing up the punching bag, "KINDLY STEP THE FUCK OFF!"

"THE HELL YOU THINK YOU ARE?!"

Jason grabbed his rocket launcher, "I'LL SHOW YOU!"

Kaine brought out his stingers, "BRING IT!"

"OH SHIT!"

"STOP BOTH OF YOU!"

"OH JESUS!"

Peter and his Spider family watched as it took Cassandra of all people put a stop to the fuss between them with a simple glare when making her presence known, "...I think he should be fine with your girlfriend Pete," Ben mentioned, "And he's likely still pissed that I had Zatanna breech him here so…"

Peter chuckled, turning to Ben, "Oh your evil."

"Evil isn't the half of it," Jessica mentions, "He threatened me to come."

"With what? I'm su-"

"He threatened to web my hair with his magic bullshit."

"Oh…" Peter again had his eyes on Ben, who whistled and was gently walking away, "Dude you're evil!"

Ben had a sly grin, "Nnnnope!"

Peter shook his head, "Well, you three make yourself comfortable here, and if it's anything I can do-"

"You're here, we know," Mattie said, quickly and easily, as if to end the conversation in one flow.

Peter could only nod as he went over to Koriand'r and Mary Jane. The alien woman hugged, hard if not harder than his brother, "Oh god….Kori…Pleasee.."

"Oh! Sorry!" She let him go, "I'm just happy to see you again! You look better, healthy! Then I last saw you!"

"Hehehe," Peter scratched his hair, "Trying, trying to be better."

"That's all you can do, tiger," Mary Jane said, hugging him, but lighter than Koriand'r and Ben. Quick as it came, it went, "Thanks for helping Felicia and I."

"It's what we do. How are those two by the way?"

"Black cat will be fine!" Koriand'r then frowned, "Dick however…Seems he's going through something that the other's won't tell me. Do you know…What is wrong with him?"

"I…" Peter stopped, briefly looking at Bruce who just came back and was sitting by the Bat computer, eyed him with his own frown. Catching the subtlety of not only him, but his fiancé said to leave it be for the time being. Meaning, they want her to learn from Dick, not from them, "He's…Not feeling well, been going through a lot," he then sighed, "He's gonna tell you though, when he wakes up."

Koriand'r still wore her frown, but tried to let herself smile as she nodded, "Well, I don't wanna take up your time so I'll let you go back to talking with everyone!" She again hugged him, making him squeal, "Great to see you again!"

Koriand'r would float back to her own fiancé as Peter massaged his spine, "Jesus…My back."

"Might need to ask your girl for a massage," Mary Jane jested, "And I heard you propose to her, congrats tiger!"

"Well without a ring mind you," she glared at him, "She said yes! Don't look at me like that," she eyes rolled and had her arms crossed, "Ugh! I'll get a wedding ring soon! There's still much I have to do before I get my life on track."

"On track?"

Peter learned by a desk, finally having time to not only relax, but talk to his friend, "I quit my job before I went toe to toe with a symbiote Jameson along with Carnage and his girlfriend. I uh…Realize during a therapy session with a blindfolded woman of how much regressing I'm doing…Have been doing," Peter would take a little moment to look around him; to his Bat family, to his Spider family, to Koriand'r, and to Mary Jane and Felica, "...And I can't keep doing that because it's not what they want. My Aunt and Gwen, they wanted me to grow, keep growing, and keep being strong. But I didn't adhere to it, haven't been, because I no longer wanted to do such growth. And with what happened to everyone in the Bat family after what Joker did to them, it only stagnated and brought me down much worse than I ever thought it did."

"It was like a last straw kind of thing."

Peter nodded to Mary Jane catching on his line of thinking, "Exactly. I just…Didn't want to care, and wanted to simply be just Spider-Man," he touched his vested costume, "To exist, while Peter just…Be there but not really existing. I had no reason to exist, but now I…Realized I have every reason to exist, and it's for this," he gesture to the Belfry, to everyone in the Belfry, "And the city," he gesture to window that represent Gotham in the background, "And of course what I'm wearing and who I am. I'm Peter Parker first and foremost, and I have every reason to exist because I am nothing without being Peter first, because Spider-Man is defined by Peter Parker, and if there's no Peter Parker-"

"No Spider-Man," Cassandra said, leaning next to him.

"Bingo!" Peter looks at Mary Jane, "I have to put in the work, keep going, and make sure I do right by everyone."

Mary Jane found herself smiling at hearing the confidence, the spark of positivity coming from Peter, "Heh…It's been so long since I heard that tone of voice…Really glad your back tiger, now we need to do something about that hair."

"YES!"

"Girls! Wait! NO! PLEASE!"

With the battle calming down, the hero's have time to recover, rest, and relax with one another.

End of Act III

---

Soooooooooooooooooooooooooooo...

I know it took very long, but I wanted to do a lot in my return, because I may go back to hiatus. Why? Because as I've been building up towards the end of part 3, I no longer want to rush my work, and I've been rushing it in my opinion. Its why I went back to re work every chapter so I can be satisficed with the vision I want with the story. A year ago, this story had like 7 chapters planned out, and that was the problem, I didn't plan from beginning to end, and due to this, had cause me to add a lot, cut corners, and rush the work out so I can put it out either every once a month, or every once a week.

I no longer want to do any of that, or if I do pump these chapters out, its because everything's planned out and has been written to where I'm satisficed with what I'm gonna put out. Moving forward, this is what I'm gonna do, and it means you won't see a new update for sometime till I have everything planned from middle to ending. I don't want to do this ever again, to go back, re edit, and then publish those with the new chapters. I want to very, and I mean, very confident with what I point out.

And it help that, through the re write, I learn to love this story again! Because I won't lie, I very much detested it, and its why chapter 21 wasn't finish till like 2 or 3 months, and the summer to falls time was dedicated to re writing the bulk of the story. The reason was simple, it change so much because of me not clearly planning the story out that I lost sight to what I was trying to write. It was suppose to be a murder mystery that has the Bat family coming back together. But that didn't stay long which was fine at first, and then I started adding all this lore, to which wasn't build into the earlier chapters. And of course, grammars, spelling mistakes and such, I really despise the work I put out after releasing 20 chapters.

But I didn't want to quit, of done so in the past so many times that I couldn't quit with how far I've come with this story. While I have other stories in the works, with one other, a Spider-Man story that you all will really like (hopefully), everything I will put out from here on out is when I have everything planned out and written. Again, its gonna take sometime, I don't know how long, but I know it will take time.

I want yall to know this as I disappear for a period time as I work on this story in the lab. Rest assure, I'll be back, but if I don't because who knows what the future holds for me, I hope you all enjoy this piece of work that meant a lot to me, that change as I change, that went through the highs and lows as I have. I hope this story made you feel something, anything.

Because that's why I write. Not just for the experience, but because I want you all to make you feel something; whether positive or negative, whether you enjoy it, or hate it. Anyways, See ya whenever.

And hopefully, not forever.