I Wonder If The Stars Regret Me?

Fic: The Cacophony of Bats Wings (13/13)

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 18:59:47 GMT

Title: The Cacophony of Bats Wings (13/13)
Rating: PG-13
Characters/Pairing: Bruce/Kal, Harvey
Word Count: 1405
Disclaimer: I own nothing
Author's Note: Previous parts can be found here. Many thanks to the wonderful mithen for the beta and for all her help and encouragement! *glomps*

Bruce learned later what happened. How Kal, with his brothers and sisters and Alfred, had been in the courtyard, with his people, helping to tidy up after the celebrations last night. How they had looked up, startled, to find Harvey holding his unconscious form hostage, a knife stolen from the healing rooms under his throat, drawing blood.

Harvey had made no demands, just yelled at them, incoherent and swearing. They had tried to talk to him, but their desperate pleas had fallen on deaf ears. Finally, Harvey had demanded a horse, and, reluctantly, one was provided for him.

They had tried to fight him, then, but Harvey had cut him deeper, to show that he was serious. Not even an unexpected appearance from the Princess of Themyscira had stopped him.

Then Harvey, still using Bruce as his hostage, had ridden away, unchallenged, to Jason's echoing yells. Kal had immediately ridden after them, his brothers and sisters and Captain Gordon not far behind, with Diana organizing further troops to follow.

None of them learned until later that Cobblepot used the confusion to escape, to flee back to the borders and the mercenaries.

Eventually, when Harvey realized he could not outrun his pursuers, he dumped Bruce, still unconscious, then made his escape, simply disappearing into the mists rolling down from the hills as everyone made sure he was all right, and brought him back to the castle, to Leslie, to be healed.

Kal had sat by his bedside, holding one of his hands, Ace standing guard with Jason and Cassandra at the door.

They looked for Harvey, groups of them led by Diana herself, but they never found any trace of him, finally concluding that he must be dead, must have fallen down a ravine hidden in the mists. And, by then, they had learned of Cobblepot's escape. But he had fled long before anyone noticed, and they could not find him.

Bruce lay in bed, unconscious, throughout it all.

****

The first thing Bruce was aware of was the pain in his head. He bit his lip to stop himself from moaning, confused. Where was he? When was he? Was he able to speak now, and not forever curse his brothers and sisters if he did? Were they still Bats, while he laboured on shirts, every stitch causing him pain?

Slowly, wincing at the seemingly very bright light, he opened his eyes.

"Bruce?" Someone spoke his name, his true name, a voice so familiar. He felt his heart ease, just by knowing he was there. Kal's hand squeezed his carefully, his eyes, the eyes Bruce loved so much were dark with worry and fear. Bruce squeezed his hand hand in return, carefully freeing his other hand from under the blankets and touching his lover's face, speaking his name without words.

Kal's eyes lightened, relief and love taking the place of fear and worry, though they still lingered as Kal sighed deeply, bowing his head slightly, like the weight of it was too much for him to bear any longer. Bruce could remember a little now. The battle. Harvey's injury. Going to him with breakfast. Then nothing. He frowned.

"How do you feel?" Kal asked, brushing some hair away from his face, then tracing his eyes, his nose, his lips.

Bruce closed his eyes for a brief moment, sighing into his touch. "Confused," he barely whispered. He knew that his brothers and sisters were free now, but he was still wary. It had taken him so long to free them from the curse... Just before Kal kissed him, Bruce caught sight of movement in the shadows of the room, a gleam of eyes, a patch of a dark leathery wing, and saw Tim there.

Kal kissed him slowly, and Bruce closed his eyes again, curling one hand around Kal's head, tangling his fingers in his hair, the fingers of their clasped hand entwining. His lover moved so he was lying next to him after their kiss broke, still stroking his face.

Bruce sighed, feeling his head throbbing. Sleep was curling around him, wrapping him in wings. Bats wings, he thought, confused. "Is everyone all right?" He whispered low, not sure if he was talking to Kal or Tim.

Kal's hand squeezed his. "Everyone is fine, now you have woken up."

Bruce thought he felt him brush a kiss against his forehead, but sleep wrapped him in its embrace before he could be sure.

*****

Bruce sat in front of the fire in his and Kal's room a few days later, Ace lying at his feet. His head still plagued him, giving him intense headaches. But he was healing. His brothers and sisters and Alfred and Lucius were looking after things for him, with input from Kal and Diana.

He wrapped the blanket a little more securely about himself. It had been cold these last few nights; light snow had fallen, and they were running out of firewood. Fires in individual rooms were a luxury they might not be able to afford, soon. Ace raised his head, nudged his knees, and whined. Bruce freed a hand, and petted him, stroking his ears and muzzle. The dog's tail thumped against the floor. Bruce smiled.

Ace whined again, and Kal entered the room, smiling at them. He closed and latched the door, then stroked Ace's ears before kissing Bruce gently. "How do you feel?"

Bruce sighed, trying not to roll his eyes. "I am fine."

Kal hummed, but did not say anything else. He sat in his own seat, before the fire, and Bruce remembered Harvey sitting there, the unsettling feeling he had had, and hid a sigh. But Kal, of course, knew what he was thinking.

"I am sorry we still have not found him. Or Cobblepot."

Bruce nodded, and was stunned to find his eyes prickling with tears. He blinked rapidly, swallowing. Ace nudged his legs again, big eyes looking up at him in concern. Bruce petted him, stroking the soft fur.

"We will find him, Bruce, I promise." Kal had moved, got up from his chair so he could kneel at his side. "I know he was your friend..."

Bruce looked away from his dog, to see Kal, caught his hand with his ring and brought it to his lips. "He loved me," he whispered miserably against his lover's fingers.

Kal moved his hold so he could squeeze his hand. "I know."

He looked at his lover in surprise, and Kal smiled slightly. He had never told Kal, never told anyone. How did he...?

"I gathered it from what people said. Did you love him?" There was no anger in his eyes, only curiosity, pain at seeing him in pain, concern and love.

"Not in the way he wanted," Bruce whispered at last, and Kal squeezed his hand again. They sat for a while, like that, before Kal stirred, and stood, gently bringing him into a stand with him, and then walked them over to the bed. Bruce fell into it, his head aching again. Kal lay next to him, wrapping the blankets securely about them both, while Ace settled on the floor.

"I got a letter from my Mother, today," Kal whispered. Bruce found his hand and squeezed it. "She said they would leave in two months, near Ostara, for our wedding." He could feel Kal's smile, and smiled himself, squeezing his hand again. "I might ask for Martha and a few others to come before then, though. To bring Krypto. I miss him."

Bruce caressed his hand. "Then we can see if he and Ace will like each other."

Kal laughed softly. "Yes." He tangled a hand in his hair, and Bruce sighed, leaning into his touch, feeling the pain in his head lessen slightly. "Are you all right?" His lover asked again.

"Yes," he whispered, not sure if it was the truth. Kal settled more closely next to him, and Bruce knew he had heard the uncertainty in his voice.

"I love you."

Bruce closed his eyes. His head hurt. His heart hurt. He missed Harvey, wanted desperately to have the chance to tell him how sorry he was. For everything. He moved to be able to see Kal's face, opened his eyes and whispered the only words he was sure of, would always be sure of. "I love you too, Kal."

Fic: The Cacophony of Bats Wings (12/13)

Sun, 25 Oct 2009 19:12:16 GMT

Title: The Cacophony of Bats Wings (12/13)
Rating: PG-13-R (for language)
Characters/Pairing: Bruce/Kal, Lucius, Leslie, Harvey
Word Count: 2059
Disclaimer: I own nothing
Author's Note: Previous parts can be found here. Many thanks to mithen for the beta! *glomps*

The sound of the horses clattering into the courtyard was loud, when they finally returned home. But not as loud as the relieved cheers, or cries of despair from those who had been left behind.

Bruce stopped in front of the doors to the castle, the noise of the horns that had sounded in welcome still ringing in his ears. Barbara, Tim, Stephanie and Lucius were waiting there, Ace alert at their feet, Alfred in the background. Leslie had already gone off to see to the wounded.

Bruce dismounted, Barbara rushing up to him, eyes wide. "Dick! Is he...?"

He placed a reassuring hand on his sister's shoulder. "He is fine. He remained at the borders to patrol them."

Barbara sank in relief, and Bruce squeezed her shoulder again, before giving Ace a quick pet, his tail thumping against their legs happily. Stephanie was hugging Cass, Tim and Jason were nodding to each other. Kal stood beside him, smiling softly. There was a pleased look in his eyes, a satisfied look, as he removed his helmet.

Diana was standing near them, looking around curiously. "Barbara, Timothy, Stephanie, may I introduce you to Diana, Princess of Themyscira. She will be staying with us, for a time."

They bowed and curtsied, exchanging greetings in clear voices. Bruce took a deep breath. There was another duty he had to perform before he could go inside. He stepped around his brothers and sisters and Kal and Diana, removing his helmet, then cleared his throat, looking at his people. Slowly, the courtyard quietened, though there were still sobs, both from joy and grief.

Bruce looked at the people, looking at him. His people. He felt a surge of pride go through his chest, and silently renewed his vow to protect them. "Many good people of Gotham, Metropolis and Themyscira died, protecting our borders, our homes and lives. Our future." His gaze lingered on the children in the crowd, some clinging to returned parents, some with tears on their faces, some much too young, who nonetheless had now become the head of their families.

"We will never forget their great sacrifices, and we will be in constant debt to them. But, tonight, we shall feast in their name, for we are free, and their names will be remembered in great glory forevermore."

There were cheers, and Bruce found himself smiling again. His people. He would do everything in his power to protect them. He knew what it was like to grow up without one parent, and have the living one not really there anymore. No one should have to go through that.

He nodded at the crowd a final time, then turned and entered the castle properly.

*****

Bruce groaned as he slipped into the hot water of the bath. His body was aching, not used to spending all day in the saddle anymore, not to mention fighting. He closed his eyes in agony and bliss. The smell of the oils soothed him, settled his mind. It had been a draining and exhaustive time, both for his body and soul.

He was not sure how long he had been lying there, in the hot water, until he heard a soft noise. Bruce blearily opened his eyes, on the verge of falling asleep. Ace was just inside the door, he would not let anyone pass. There was only one person, save Alfred, that he would.

Bruce smiled. Kal slipped into the bath. It was not really big enough for them both, but... It had been a long time since they had been truly alone like this. He smiled against his lover's skin, his hands caressing, being caressed in return, their legs tangled together.

"Bruce..." Kal's eyes were glowing in the dim light. They kissed, soft candlelight flickering over their bodies, their skin slick with water as they made love.

*****

Bruce carefully smoothed down his ornate robe, catching his lover's smile. He could not help but smile back, but reminded himself of his duty. He had to attend the festival being held in honour of the dead. Just because he had been reunited with his lover did not mean that others were not suffering.

Smoothing down his robe down one last time, he stepped from his room and walked down the corridors, Kal just behind him, to the great hall. The festival would spill outside, later, with many bonfires being lit.

Lucius appeared just before he could enter the hall, and Bruce paused, Kal pausing as well, lingering by his side.

"Cobblepot has been put in the dungeons until it is decided what should be done with him."

Bruce nodded. "Thank you, Lucius. And you have my thanks for taking care of Gotham in my absence, as well."

Lucius smiled. "I hardly did anything, my Lord. Princess Barbara is a... formidable woman."

Bruce nodded again, feeling pride surge through him that he did not even bother to try and hide. "She is."

"And, it is good to see the Prince Kal-El again," Lucius commented.

Kal smiled. "It is good to be back in Gotham." His lover squeezed his hand. Bruce squeezed back, amazed, as ever, by the love in his eyes.

They were about the enter the great hall when someone called out his name. Bruce turned, and Leslie rushed up to him. "Bruce. Harvey has woken and is asking for you."

*****

Bruce had gone though the festival as solemnly as he could, until the true celebrations had begun. He had lingered for as long as he could bear, until he slipped away, unnoticed, as the mead started flowing freely. He had to see Harvey.

He walked down the corridor to the healing rooms. Ace was with Kal, and his brothers and sisters, still at the festival. He thought briefly about going to his room and removing the ornate robe and crown, but his impatience won out. He had not been allowed - no one had been allowed - to see Harvey since his terrible injury.

Bruce paused, just inside the door of one of Leslie's healing rooms, waiting for his eyes to adjust to the dim light. Everything was quiet; Leslie was absent. He hesitated, not wanting to disturb his friend if he had fallen asleep, but desperately wanting to see him again, to make sure he was truly all right.

There was a small movement, and Bruce could not hold himself back any longer. "Harvey?" He whispered hoarsely.

"Bruce."

Bruce closed his eyes for a moment in relief, feeling a great weight rising from his shoulders. "Yes." He moved into the small room, just able to make out his friend's outline in the darkness. "How do you feel? Is there anything I can do for you?"

Harvey laughed, but it was not his normal laugh. It was darker, cruel, mocking, and Bruce felt a shiver go down his spine. "Don't you think you have done enough?" His voice was different too, rough and coarse, full of anger.

Despite himself, Bruce took a step back. "I do not-"

Harvey cut him off, laughing again. "Light a candle, Bruce. Light a candle and see what a great King you are, leading your people nowhere, only to pain and death while you have Metropolis pick up the pieces every time and fuck their Prince in payment."

Bruce stood, stunned, unable to think after Harvey's outburst. "I... I do not..."

"Just light the candle, damn you!" There was movement from the bed, as if Harvey was about to get up and find a candle himself. Bruce quickly moved to where he knew a candle would be and lit it, to try and prevent Harvey from hurting himself further.

"Look at me."

Bruce turned slowly, waiting for his eyes to adjust to the new light.

"Look at me! Look at me and see what you have done, your Majesty!" Harvey's voice spiraled upwards until he was almost screaming.

Bruce turned and could not hold back a gasp of horror, feeling his heart drop. He knew that Harvey had been horrifically injured, yes, he had seen it, but this... One side of his face was gone, the once pale skin pink and red and raw, the skin completely gone in places, revealing the muscle beneath...

Harvey laughed. Bruce flinched. His right eye was still blue, not cloudy like the left, and bitterness, anger, rage and... further back, all but smothered under the other emotions... Was that sorrow?

"This. This is the result of your actions, Bruce, and this is all you will ever bring Gotham! Ruin."

Bruce swallowed, then took a deep breath, while Harvey watched him, sneeringly. "The Harvey I know would never say things like that."

His friend's eyes glinted oddly in the darkness. "Harvey. Harvey is dead."

"You are not-" Bruce took a step forward.

"Harvey is DEAD!" He roared, spittle flying from his mouth.

Bruce took another deep breath, and tried not to flinch again. "You are tired, Harvey. Try to get some rest."

He walked away from the bed and blew the candle out. Harvey's mocking laughter followed him down the corridor as he left.

*****

Bruce returned to Leslie's healing rooms early the next morning. Everywhere was quiet; everyone was recovering from the night before, from drinking too much, and from reunions with loved ones. He had not gone back to the celebrations, too disturbed by his conversation with Harvey. Kal had come up to their room shortly after he had retired, anyway.

He had still been snoring when Bruce had woken. He had meant to stay, and just watch him sleep, but had found himself restless, so he had dressed, and worked on the paperwork that had piled up in his absence. It was not as much as he had feared - Barbara had done an extremely good job in looking after things. He would have to thank his sister properly. But she was probably asleep now, so instead he had had a breakfast tray sent up, and was taking it to Harvey. Hopefully his friend would be feeling better today.

"Harvey?" He called out softly. His friend lay still on his bed. Bruce gently put the tray down, then closed the door, so Harvey would not be woken by anyone passing by. He sat in a wooden chair, next to the bed, waiting for him to wake.

After a while, Harvey's eyes began to flicker, and opened, the blue settling on him almost immediately. Bruce smiled slightly. "Good morning, Harvey."

Harvey grunted, sitting himself up in the bed, a grimace touching the unscarred side of his face as he moved.

"I brought you some breakfast," Bruce gestured at the tray. Harvey looked from him, to the tray, then back to him again.

"I thought you would have gone after last night. Gone crying to your Prince."

Bruce held back a sigh, feeling his emotions plummet again. "Then perhaps you do not know me as well as you think." He knew it had been the wrong thing to say as soon as the words had left his lips. But it was too late to call them back.

Harvey's hands curled into fists. "Oh?" His voice was mocking, but his clear eye contained only sadness.

"How do you feel, Harvey?" Bruce asked, trying to change the subject.

There was a humourless laugh. "How do you think I feel?"

"You seem... agitated."

Harvey cast him a long look now, but did not respond further.

"Are you hungry?" Bruce asked, after a few minutes of silence.

Harvey's eyes shifted to the food. "I can't reach." His voice, for the first time, was more like it once had been, and Bruce felt a leap of hope in his chest.

He stood, and moved the tray to rest carefully on the bed. And was completely unprepared for what came next.

Harvey grabbed the tray before he could set it down properly, pulled it from his scarred hands, the breakfast falling from it to crash to the floor, then hit him over the head.

Bruce felt himself slump over the bed, darkness creeping in around him. The last thing he heard was Harvey's wrong laughter.

Silmarillion Fic: Together (I-VIII/VIII)

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 19:13:58 GMT

Title: Together (I-VIII/VIII)
Rating: PG-13
Characters: Ecthelion, Glorfindel
Word Count: 2001 (in total)
Disclaimer: I really really wish I did own the beautiful world that Tolkien created.
Author's Note: My very first Tolkien fic. *is very very nervous* Unbetaed (and I'm sure there are lots of mistakes) so please point and I shall correct.

I

The Darkening of Valinor

He found him by the fountain. Golden hair tumbled down his back, slightly damp from the mist of water. His face was grave, and Ecthelion was worried.

"What is wrong, my friend? What has damped your spirits so?" His blue eyes, normally so bright and expressive were cloudy, and Ecthelion felt his heart tighten in his chest. "Save, of course, for sitting so close to the fountain?" He jested.

A faint smile touched Glorfindel's lips at last. "I fear for the future," was all he said.

Ecthelion felt the same fear in his own chest, but smiled. "Then fear not. For we will face it together, as always."

Glorfindel's eyes cleared, and his smile outshone the light of the Two Trees.

II

Alqualondë

There was sobbing. The sound of it nearly drowned the sound of the waves, and Glorfindel felt a hysterical laugh bubbling in his chest. Drowned. Drowned in blood. The horror he had seen at Alqualondë...

He closed his eyes. Everyone had gone insane. That was the only answer. Fëanor and his people... and Fingon... He shuddered.

Someone sat next to him. Glorfindel didn't need to open his eyes to know who it was. The one who was always at his side.

He felt his hand being clasped, and was not sure if the tremble he felt was from him or Ecthelion. The shocked, traumatized look on his friend's face... in his eyes... He had seen it on others, but it was worse on Ecthelion, somehow.

"Together, mellon nin. Together." The voice hardly sounded like music now.

"Together," Glorfindel whispered in return.

III

Helcaraxë

The burning of the ships was too far away for him to see, what with everyone crowded around. He didn't need to see it. Didn't need to see the betrayal.

Turgon, tight-lipped, had handed Idril to him while he went to confer with his Father, brother and cousins. The bright child was too young to understand what had happened, and it seemed she had already forgotten the terrifying visage of theDoomsman of Arda foretelling their fate.

Which Ecthelion would only thank Eru for. It was a sight he desperately wished he could forget himself.

The child squirmed in his grip, and he tightened his hold on her, until he realized who it was who had come to sit next to them. He loosened his hold onIdril , glowing like a star in the wastes, relinquishing her so she could play with the fascinating strands of golden hair, so like her Mother's.

He looked at his friend, his pale face, the shock that had not yet faded from his eyes since Alqualondë. Ecthelion did not try and comfort him, for what could he say? When he knew he was bearing the same look...

His friend was pointing out the constellations to Idril, who was looking up in wonder. He knew that Glorfindel's heart had been snared by the child in his arms, even as his had been. They would not leave her, whatever fate was in store for her, or her parents. To see one who still had such innocence...

Ecthelion felt tears come to his eyes. Idril hugged him suddenly, and he took a deep breath, not wanting to upset the child.

Glorfindel was watching him. "Together," he barely murmured, the sound almost cut off by the icy wind.

Ecthelion made sure Idril was properly wrapped in the blankets that had been found. "Together," he murmured back, seeing Turgon and the others approaching, feeling dread and determination settle in his heart as he knew what path they had decided to take.

IV

Nevrest

Glorfindel brushed his hair out of his eyes, looking about him, feeling sick. He had hoped -and it was a vain hope, he had known - that he would never had have to seen the dead bodies of his kin again. Not afterAlqualondë. Not after losing so many on the ice, including Turgon's wife.

Ecthelion approached him. They had fought back to back, defending one another, protecting one another. His friend had spots of black blood upon his face, marring his fair features. Glorfindel winced at the sight.

"Nine dead," he whispered, seeming to be in shock as he looked down at his hands.

Glorfindel carefully placed a hand on his shoulder, feeling bile rise in his throat again. All around them lay strewn Morgoth's vile creatures. Orcs. He swallowed. He never thought he'd have to kill, either. How naive he was!

But, if it helped save others... saved Turgon and Idril... saved Ecthelion...

He squeezed his friend's shoulder, doing his best to smile at him. "Together," he murmured.

Ecthelion took a deep breath, coming back to himself, nodding at him. "Together."

V

Nírnaeth Arnoediad (The Battle of Unnumbered Tears)

Ecthelion dodged a Orc's scimitar, and quickly slew it. Another took it's place, and then another and another...

His arms were weary and he had long ago lost count of how many Orcs and other foul creatures he had slain. Of how many Elves and Men had died.

This battle had been a mistake. A terrible, horrible mistake, and they were paying for it dearly.

It was said that King Fingon - Turgon's brother - was dead. The King of Gondolin was now the High King of the Noldor. And all around Ecthelion, his people were dying, cut down like saplings in a storm.

This darkness was too great for them to hold back.

He killed another Orc. And then another ten.

He didn't recognize the noise of the trumpets, at first, and when he did he was filled with dread and despair. The sound of the retreat. But where could they go, even to the Hidden City, to hide fromMorgoth? How could they hold the dark army back? But he started ordering his men back, what few there were left.

He heard a great shout beside him, and saw the golden form of his friend, covered with black orc blood, but whole, and felt a relief so intense it almost hurt wash over him.

They were side by side now, their people coming together, holding the flanks. They were too weary to exchange words, but that didn't matter.

They fought side by side, slowly giving ground. Together, as they always were.

VI

The Coming of Tuor to Gondolin

Glorfindel looked up from the report he was reading when he heard the sound of trumpets. Ecthelion's trumpets.

But he was on duty at the Gates, and not due to be relived for another moon...!

Heart in his throat, dread filling him, Glorfindel ran to the nearest balcony, staring at the strange sight in front of him. Ecthelion was riding down from the Gates, with one of his men, and a strange looking elf... Voronwë? There was another stranger, wrapped in a grey cloak that reminded him of the sea at Nevrast.

He quickly called his own people together, donning his armour, and joined his friend, receiving a nod and a quick smile in return.

Later, they stood side by side with their fellow Lords, listening to this man, Tuor, speak to the King of things he could not possibly know, wearing the armour they had left in Nevrest, speaking with power and authority, urging them to remember Ulmo's warning.

The mortals eyes are the exact shade of the sea, and Glorfindel shivered.

He glanced at Ecthelion, and saw the same fear and awe in his eyes.

There was silence, until the King announced his refusal to listen to the mortals words, his urgings.

Glorfindel felt Ecthelion sigh next to him, and they exchanged a glance as people began to drift away. For Ecthelion must return to the Gates. But he paused long enough to lay a hand upon his shoulder. "Together, mellon nin."

Glorfindel nodded, glancing at the King's Tower, feeling some nameless dread. "Whatever our doom, we face it together."

VII

The Fall of Gondolin

Ecthelion opened his eyes, and wondered when he had closed them. All about him are yells and screams, the sound of buildings being broken; of people dying.

He is dying. He knows this.

The heat from the fires raging across the city is too intense. And he can't feel his left arm. He's almost surprised when he looks down and finds it still attached to his body.

Gondolin is falling, and Ecthelion knows he will fall with it.

Tuor is beside him, and he blinks at him, trying to understand what he is saying. But then there is a great noise - a cheer of exhausted voices - and the mortal is gone, replaced by the golden from of his friend.

And Ecthelion smiles, because his friend, though exhausted like all of them, is whole, and he knows he will never let the King, nor Idril and Eärendil be slain.

"Ecthelion," Glorfindel's looks at him, eyes full of tears, voice hoarse.

They both know he is going to die.

There is a great roar, and the shout of defiant voices. Glorfindel looks away for a moment, and a cry escapes his lips at whatever he sees.

"I don't want you following me this time, my friend. I am afraid that we can be together no more." His voice is rough, and he can barely hear it himself. "Please,mellon nin. Do not follow me this time."

A tear, quickly followed by another falls from his friend's face, and the golden head bows. "Ecthelion," he whispers again.

There is another great roar, and a great crashing sound. He can feel the ground tremble beneath him, and he knows his death is near at hand. But Glorfindel takes a deep breath and presses a kiss to his brow, carefully securing his helmet, before looking at him, one last time.

He goes then, and Ecthelion can no longer see him though the haze of smoke, nor hear him over the sound of the still running fountain.

The Fountain. His symbol. His House.

He gathers his strength together - whatever his fate, he will not meet it lying on the ground! - and manages to sit up, leaning against the cool stone of the King's Fountain. He sees death and fire all around him. And - Ai! A Balrog! Nay, not just any Balrog, but Gothmog, the Chief of them.

Ecthelion grits his teeth as he stands, ready to meet his doom.

Alone.

VIII

Cirith Thoronath

Glorfindel wearily raises his head, unsure when he had bowed it. Was it when so many of his people had fallen in the Great Market? Or... when Ecthelion...

He tightens his grip on his sword to stop himself from falling to his knees and weeping.

But they managed to escape, a few of them. He tries to find some comfort in that, but all he can remember is the look in Ecthelion's eyes, how he knew he was going to die. How his best friend, his sword brother, the person who knew him better than anyone else isn't here.

How he was alone, as he had never been before.

The path narrows, and he knows that at last his men as the rearguard have started on the pass of Cirith Thoronath. It's pitch black - darker, Glorfindel thinks, than it was after the Two Trees were destroyed. He can barely see anything before him.

But he can hear the cries. Orcs! An ambush!

He turns, orders the men who are behind him to do the same, to get back to ground less perilous to fight upon. But before they can do so, a cry comes from them, and he sees what they see: fire and fear.

A Balrog.

Glorfindel takes a deep breath, then orders his men to get behind him, even as he moves forward. He is smiling. A Balrog. He thinks of Ecthelion, and his smile widens.

They will die at the hands of the same evil.

Together, as they have always been.

Fic: The Cacophony of Bats Wings (11/13)

Sun, 18 Oct 2009 18:17:22 GMT

Title: The Cacophony of Bats Wings (11/13)
Rating: PG-13
Characters/Pairing: Bruce/Kal, Diana, Dick, Jim
Word Count: 1420
Disclaimer: I own nothing
Author's Note: Previous parts can be found here. Betaed by the great mithen!

Bruce had led the funeral rites, as he was the highest ranking person present. He technically even outranked Kal and Princess Diana of Themyscira. But that did not give him leave to conduct their funeral services for them. Unfortunately, however, time was short. So both Kal and Diana had given him permission to do a funeral rite for everyone, regardless of which nation had held their allegiance. They did, however, both speak in their own languages, and to their own gods, at times. As they should.

There were too many dead to bury, and the ground was too hard from the long cold, so they had had to burn them. The smell was horrific, but at least the cold wind that was tearing at banners and tents, cloaks and hair, was sending it away from the healing tents. That was something. And, it had not snowed, though the wind was bitter. There were small signs of Spring, now.

Bruce, Kal and Diana, Dick, Jason, Cass and Captain Gordon, slowly made their way back to the main tents, each lost in their own thoughts. Kal was walking slightly behind him, since they were still in their official capacities. They stayed in the formal line until they reached the King of Gotham's tent and entered it. There, away from prying eyes, they relaxed a little.

"We need to discuss our ongoing strategy," Bruce announced, and everyone gathered around a table. There were chairs for himself, Kal and Diana, but everyone else had to stand. Dick stood just behind his shoulder. Jason prowled around the tent, while Cassandra stood just off to one side, watching everyone.

Gordon stood before the desk. "We have nearly three thousand soldiers - soldiers of Gotham - ready to fight. Over two hundred still lie injured." He reported.

"I have nearly five thousand soldiers ready to fight," said the Princess of Themyscira.

"Metropolis has nearly seven thousand ready to fight." Kal announced.

Bruce nodded. Fifteen thousand men ready to fight. That was good. "We thank you for your aid, Metropolis and Themyscira." He said, formally. He still had not been offically introduced to Diana yet, and he did not know her at all. It was best to stick with tradition. Kal seemed to get on with her well, though... He pushed those thoughts away.

"Are you willing to keep your people here?" He asked them both.

Diana considered for a moment. "We could keep half our solders here, if needed."

Kal nodded. "As could we."

"Then you have our thanks again."

There was silence for a moment, save for the winds curling around the tents, making the material snap. "Have the scouts reported any movements of the mercenaries?"

Gordon shook his head. "None, my Liege. Sometimes they find one or two men, and bring them in, but it seems as if most have scattered, and not yet regrouped."

Bruce nodded. Jason continued to prowl about the tent. Everyone else was still, looking at him, waiting. "We can not afford to go looking for all of them. We have their leader." He would have to come up with a fitting punishment for Cobblepot, and soon.

"I suggest we leave four thousand soldiers here to guard the border. They will be able to have reinforcements quickly, if needed." Everyone nodded, and Bruce felt a weight off his shoulders. Kal smiled a tiny smile at him, and Bruce returned it.

"Who would lead them, do you propose?" Diana asked.

Bruce considered for a moment. "You would, of course, be able to elect Captains of your own, but I suggest overall command goes to Richard." He felt his brother stand even taller behind him. Jason glared at them for a moment, while Cassandra remained impassive, as did Gordon. Diana looked at Dick assessingly before nodding. Kal cast a long look at Dick as well, before nodding also.

Bruce hid his sigh of relief. "Then I suggest the rest of us plan to break camp tomorrow."

Kal smiled. "I would like to see Gotham again." Bruce could not help but return his smile, now.

Diana nodded thoughtfully. "I would like to see Gotham also, if I may."

"Of course."

The Princess smiled teasingly. "Besides, I will need to be in Gotham in the Spring anyway, for a great celebration."

Kal smiled, a hint of a blush on his face. Bruce smiled slowly, not bothering to hide it. Everyone quietly left his tent, even Diana, leaving him and Kal alone.

*****

"Did you get my last letter?" Bruce asked later, trying to stop himself from running and demanding to see Harvey. He would not be allowed to see him, King of Gotham or not. His friend was simply too ill.

"I received one around three weeks ago. I sent one in reply and was composing another when we got your signal."

Bruce frowned. "I did not receive any after my last response."

Kal frowned now too. "I'm sorry." Bruce shook his head; the apology was needless. "How are your hands?" Kal caught them gently with his own, bringing them to his lips, caressing the light bandages with his lips.

"They are fine."

Kal looked at him a moment, his blue eyes intense, before nodding, a relived smile touching his lips. Bruce could feel the curve of it against his lips, even through the material of the bandages. He felt his heart swell, overcome with love. Even when he was not sure of anything else, he was always certain of this. That he loved Kal, and that Kal loved him in return.

He moved closer to his lover, curling a hand in his hair, Kal's smile turning fond and loving, the smile only he got to see. Bruce reached for his hand with his ring on, brought it to his lips. "I see you did not wear the band through, then."

Kal laughed, softly squeezing his hand, looping his free arm about him, drawing him close. "Not quite," he whispered, before kissing him deeply.

*****

Bruce watched everyone getting ready to depart the next day, keeping an eye on the healing tents. Harvey was still unconscious - it was, the healers said, amazing he was still alive. But they also said he could return home with them, provided he was well cared for.

It was going to be a slow journey anyway, given the wounded in all. But they still had not let him see his friend. While Bruce knew that no one had been allowed to see Harvey, he could not help feeling... restless. Annoyed. Anxious. Worried. He was doing as well as could be expected, everyone said, but just how well could someone be expected to do after... that. Bruce remembered the sight of his friend's face and shuddered, feeling bile rise in his throat.

"Bruce." His lover's warm voice behind him. Bruce turned. They were both clad in their armour again, for traveling, but neither of them were wearing their helmets, yet.

Kal was smiling, and Bruce saw Diana just behind him. "I thought if you did not get formally introduced to Diana now, you never would."

Diana smiled, a touch teasingly, and Bruce felt himself smiling in return. It was nice to have another person who he could relax around a bit, who was his equal. He had his brothers and sisters, of course, but he could never forget that he was their elder brother, not to mention their King, now.

"Your Majesty, may I introduce you to Diana, Princess of Themyscira. Your Highness, may I introduce you to Bruce Wayne, the King of Gotham."

Diana inclined her head, as did Bruce. "It is an honor to meet you, Princess."

"The honor is all mine, your Majesty. I have heard many tales about you. But please, call me Diana."

"If you will call me Bruce."

She nodded, smiling again, Kal smiling at the both of them.

*****

They were finally ready to depart. Dick, along with some of Kal and Diana's most trusted lieutenants were remaining to patrol the borders.

"Take care." Bruce put his hand on his brother's shoulder, as he had when all this had started.

Dick nodded. "I will." Bruce nodded in return. "Bruce. Take care of yourself."

Bruce nodded again, letting his hand fall, and turned to mount his horse, missing the look Dick shot Jason and Cassandra. He made sure his helmet was on securely, and that everything was in order, before looking at Kal, and nodding.

They slowly set off, returning home at last.

Drabble: Ultimate Sacrifice

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 18:16:37 GMT

Title: Ultimate Sacrifice
Rating: PG-13
Characters: Diana, Clark, Bruce
Word Count: 141
Disclaimer: I own nothing
Warnings: Character Death
Author's Note: For my Trinity table at dcu_freeforall. Prompt of 'Ultimate Sacrifice'. Unbetaed, so point and I shall correct.

It had always infuriated Clark. How so often so many of Batman's solutions, his strategies and plans had ended with his own death. Conveniently left out when he told them, often only discovered at the last minute.

But they had always worked. No one could deny that - the man had saved Earth so many times... And then he would just shrug when Superman, or her, or J'onn asked him about it, why his plans so often ended with his own death.

Bruce hadn't had a death wish; he hadn't wanted to die. It was just a consequence of his actions.

But now, as Diana looked down at Clark's face, broken with grief and pain, anger and confusion, as he gently held Bruce's body...

She closed her eyes. There was no last minute rescue today.

There never would be again.

Drabble: The Gang

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 18:34:33 GMT

Title: The Gang
Rating: PG
Chartacers: Clark, Diana, Bruce
Word Count: 150
Disclaimer: I own nothing
Author's Note: For my Trinity table at dcu_freeforall. Prompt of 'The Gang'. Unbetaed, so point and I shall correct.

Bruce had fallen asleep. Clark edged closer and very carefully placed his cape over him, hardly breathing for fear of waking him.

Diana smiled at them fondly, from her place at the table. Clark smiled back as he returned to his place, from the low, overstuffed chair Bruce had fallen into. Bruce didn't always do this, when they had these meetings, but most of the time... well, Clark and Diana expected him to nod off.

"What film do you want to watch this week? It's your turn." Diana said, eyes twinkling.

Clark looked at the choices, humming thoughtfully, and was reminded of his days in Smallville with Pete and Lana; hanging out with the gang. The faces might have changed, but the feeling hadn't. The feeling of acceptance. Of home. Love and friendship.

Clark's smile grew, as he continued looking at the films, determined to find just the right one.

Fic: The Cacophony of Bats Wings (10/13)

Sun, 11 Oct 2009 18:29:18 GMT

Title: The Cacophony of Bats Wings (10/13)
Rating: PG-13
Characters/Pairing: Bruce/Kal, Dick
Word Count: 1840
Disclaimer: I own nothing
Author's Note: Previous parts can be found here. Betaed by the wonderful mithen!

Bruce hovered outside the healers' tent. Harvey was inside, being tended to. Though, what they could do for him... Bruce felt his stomach turning over and bile rising in his throat as he remembered. Half of Harvey's face was gone, seared away by the explosion. It was impossible to believe that he would live, let alone recover and...

A hand upon his shoulder, warm, even through the armour. Bruce turned and saw his lover, still clad in his armour, but with his helmet removed. Even his joy at their re-union had been swept away by grief and shock for Harvey.

The battle had ended soon after that. Most of the mercenaries had gotten away, but some had been captured, and soldiers were tracking down the stragglers. They had won. But at what cost?

Kal shook him gently, his eyes dark with concern. Bruce blinked, then took a deep breath, putting his emotions away. The King of Gotham was needed now.

"Dick reports they have caught the leader of the mercenaries."

Bruce raised an eyebrow, then realized he still had his helmet on. He wearily took it off. Kal smiled at him, and Bruce tried to smile back. They walked together to another tent, this one empty, save for his brothers and sister. He nodded at them, distantly feeling relief that they were all right.

"We've got the leader, but..." Dick exchanged a look with Jason and Cassandra, before looking him in the eye. "It's Oswald Cobblepot."

Bruce felt faint surprise. Cobblepot. He had been on the council. The worst of the lot of them. He remembered the look he had given him when he had dismissed the council. So this was what he had been planning. Interesting. How much money had he stolen from Gotham to pay the mercenaries? It was ironic, really, that their own resources had been used against them in this way...

"Bruce?" Kal's hand was on his shoulder again. His eyes were a vivid blue, deep with worry.

"Make sure he does not escape." Bruce tried to smile again. "I am glad you are safe."

His brothers and sister nodded, exchanging glances, looking at Kal, but they slowly left. Bruce felt drained of all energy, as he never had before.

"Bruce. Are you hurt?" Kal's voice was insistent.

All Bruce wanted to do was lie down and sleep, and never wake up. "I am fine," he said absently, his mind still on Harvey. He needed to be with him, to say goodbye, to try and somehow let him know that he was not alone in his final hours. He just wanted... to make up for all the times he had not been there for his friend, so that he could maybe die in peace. Because there was no way Harvey was going to survive this, not with the wounds he had suffered...

There was distant pain at his shoulder, and Bruce suddenly came back to awareness. Kal was unbuckling his armour for him. He started to say something, but Kal just kissed him, very softly. Bruce sighed into the kiss, tears stinging his eyes, different and opposing emotions swirling within him, making it difficult to breathe.

Kal wrapped his arms about him, rocking him gently, eventually returning to removing his armour for him. A pile of the dark armour pieces soon appeared on the ground, and Kal was frowning. Small cuts and large bruises mottled his skin.

Kal was still in his armour. Bruce made motions to undo it, to return the favor, but Kal just caught his hands, then brought them to his lips. His hands were hurting, he realized, maybe close to bleeding after his rough treatment of them over the last few days.

Kal's ring was still on a chain around his neck and Bruce tried to take it off and put in on his finger again. It seemed terribly important. But Kal just caught his hands again and gently pushed him down on a pile of blankets, tucking them about him.

Bruce reached for a bare hand - his lover had removed his gauntlets to take off his armour. Kal bent and pressed a kiss to his forehead, whispering his name, telling him that he loved him. Bruce sighed, and without even realizing it, fell asleep.

*****

He woke to sunlight and warmth. There were people milling about close by, their voices murmurs, but birds could still be heard. Crows, cawing. Kal was tucked into his side, deeply asleep. Dark circles etched the skin under his eyes., and there was a bruse on his cheek. He looked exhausted.

Bruce shifted carefully, trying not to wake him up. He moved his hand to stroke his lover's hair, stopping when he saw it was covered in bandages. He curled his fingers into a fist slowly, feeling bandages on his other hand now. They did not restrict his movements much, so they must be light dressings only. They did not hurt.

Kal sighed, and the arm he had securely wrapped about him tightened. Bruce did touch his hair now, unable to keep himself from smiling. Kal was here. Kal was here, in his arms again. His heart started to speed up.

He was not sure how long he lay like that, watching his love sleeping, stroking his hair, softly tracing the lines of his face. Maybe it was the particularly loud cawing of a crow that made him remember.

Harvey. The explosion.

Bruce suppressed a gasp through long practice, feeling his heart tighten. Harvey... Why had he fallen asleep? Harvey... His friend would have died during the night, that much was sure. Died alone. Alone, because of Bruce's selfishness, as always.

Kal looked up at him with sleepy eyes, full of wonder. Bruce closed his eyes, taking a deep breath, trying to get his emotions under control. Kal's lips gently caressed his own, and Bruce kissed him back fiercely, tangling his fingers in Kal's hair, his tunic. Kal returned the kiss for a moment, then pulled away.

Bruce kept his eyes shut. He could feel Kal's ring, cold over his heart. He gasped for breath, the noise loud in the stillness of their surroundings.

"Bruce." He did not respond. He had to get his breathing under control. Once he did that, he could get up and oversee the burial of Harvey - of all the soldiers who had lost their lives. Then he would have to see about the remaining mercenaries and Cobblepot, then the ones who had fled, who had not been captured. He had to stop them from imposing on Gotham's borders again. He had to make sure there was enough supplies for the healers and then he would have to go back to the castle and make sure there were no diplomatic incidents over what had happened and make sure the dead were properly honored and...

"Blaidd." Kal's anguished voice broke into his thoughts, saying the name he had not heard in so long. Bruce opened his eyes. Kal's face was next to his own, his bright blue eyes wide with concern, fear, panic. Bruce took a deep breath.

"Blaidd." His lover's voice was soft now, gentle, and Bruce choked on a sob. His body ached. His soul ached. He did not know what he should be feeling, there was just this great pit of emptiness...

Kal's arms were close about him, holding him together when he could not do so. Bruce clung to him for dear life.

*****

Bruce had finally been able to put himself back together, to calm his emotions. He sat now, next to Kal, their legs touching, eating breakfast. It was meager - they were running out of supplies. But it was enough. "Thank you for coming," he said, voice raw.

Kal looked at him in surprise. "Of course I came. What happened?"

Bruce shrugged, taking a sip of water, then explained how they had heard rumours of the mercenaries gathering at the borders, how he had sent Jason and Cassandra out to see if they were true.

Kal nodded and squeezed one of his bandaged hands carefully. "I'm sorry we could not come earlier, but there was heavy snowfall the night the signals were lit. I thought we had come too late." Bruce squeezed Kal's hand now, seeing his eyes bright with emotion, remembering the fears he had voiced before they parted.

There was a clearing of a throat just outside the tent, and Bruce looked up, towards the entrance, taking a deep breath. It was time he started acting like a King. But he did not take his hand away from Kal's. The tent flap opened, and Bruce got a brief glimpse of soldiers milling about outside before Dick walked in.

"Bruce. Kal." He nodded at them, and they nodded back.

"How many dead?" Bruce asked, feeling his heart constricting.

Dick sighed. "Nearly eight hundred on the last count."

Bruce winced. Eight hundred form all the allied forces... It could have been worse. Much worse. But it could have been much less, as well. Eight hundred was far, far, too many. Kal squeezed his hand again, and Bruce squeezed back, incredibly grateful for his lover's presence. "How are the healing supplies holding out?"

Dick shifted from foot to foot. "They are... low. Just about enough at the moment." Bruce nodded again, but Dick continued. "Most of them are being used on the survivors from the explosion - Harvey is doing as well as to be expected, they say."

Bruce felt his heart leap. "Harvey? He is... alive?"

Dick nodded cautiously, glancing at Kal for a second. Bruce was too overcome with relief to see it, or the slight tensing of his lover's shoulders. Harvey was still alive. He was still alive. Always a fighter. Bruce found himself smiling, almost grinning, and tried to push it away, but could not, quite.

"The dead are going to be buried at mid-day." Dick concluded, and Bruce took a breath, feeling his smile finally starting to fade. Harvey was alive, yes, but eight hundred soldiers were still dead, who had sacrificed their lives for him, for Gotham. And Harvey could still join them. It was a sobering thought.

"Dick, gather the people together - we need to hold a council to decide what actions we will take next."

Dick nodded, bowed slightly, and left. Bruce relaxed a little, then yawned. Kal's lips caressed his cheek - they were stubbly. So were his, Bruce supposed. Shaving had not been a priority of his these last few days.

"You should meet Diana properly," Kal murmured against his skin.

Bruce nodded once more, kissing Kal slowly, trying to say everything he could not with words. Thank you. I missed you. I am glad you are here. I need you. I love you.

Kal returned the kiss, and Bruce knew he knew every word as if he had spoken them aloud.

Drabble: Happy

Sat, 10 Oct 2009 18:41:55 GMT

Title: Happy
Rating: PG
Pairing: Clark/Bruce
Word Count: 117
Disclaimer: I own nothing
Author's Note: A belated birthday present for ilovetobefree. Unbetaed, so point and I shall correct.

Clark was humming to himself, enjoying the feel of Bruce's soft hair against his hand as he ran his fingers through it. Bruce sighed softly, and settled slightly closer to him.

Clark couldn't restrain the smile that broke across his face. He wouldn't have even tried to - why would he need to hide it?

Bruce looked at him with amused fondness as Clark's hands made another pass through his hair. "You're in a good mood this morning," he observed.

Clark grinned. "Yes. Yes, I am."

Bruce shook his head but brushed a kiss to his neck. Clark's smile faded to a loving one. Bruce settled himself back against him. Clark went back to stroking his hair.

Drabble: Falling Apart

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 18:37:51 GMT

Title: Falling Apart
Rating: PG-13
Characters/Paring: Pieter/Michael
Word Count: 319
Disclaimer: I own nothing
Warning: Character Death
Author's Note: Spoilers for recent JSA issues. A belated birthday present for isilweth Unbetaed, so point and I shall correct.

Pieter slowly peeled his gloves off, the once white latex slippy with blood. Michael's blood. Michael was...

Pieter concentrated very carefully on cleaning his hands properly, on making sure that every inch of them, every millimetre was clean. There would be reports and paperwork to fill out, a funeral to arrange, and they had to figure out just how this had happened.

That is, if the JSA were still together. He had heard the angry shouts even as he had been trying to...

Pieter felt bile rise in this throat, burning, as it hadn't in such a long time. Not since he had first started his medical training. He swallowed and took a deep breath.

There would have to be an independent autopsy. He would have to get things ready for that. And Checkmate would want in, too, though thankfully Alan could handle that. Unless he was too busy trying to keep theJSA together...

Pieter took another deep breath and told himself firmly not to think, he could feel himself start to fall apart if he did and... myfaultmyfaultMYFAULT!

He turned the taps off, then started to remove his costume. He would need to change. Clean, everything had to be kept clean. Pure. Untouched.

More angry yells filtered in and Pieter closed his eyes, deliberately cloaking himself in darkness. His world was falling apart around him. At least, he thought, Michael was with his beloved Paula and Terry, the child he had never known now. He had no doubt they were in heaven, no matter what Michael had believed.

Pieter couldn't believe that God - any God - would be so cruel to keep families apart forever, not when they had suffered as much as Michael's had. As Michael had.

His breath caught in his throat, great sobs in his chest. His legs gave way under him, and Pieter fell to the floor, weeping.

Happy Birthday!

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 17:51:12 GMT

Happy Birthday ilovetobefree!

Give me a pairing and a prompt and I shall write fic for you! :)

Fic: The Cacophony of Bats Wings (9/13)

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 18:09:11 GMT

Title: The Cacophony of Bats Wings (9/13)
Rating: PG-13
Characters/Pairing: Bruce/Kal, Harvey, Diana
Word Count: 1568
Disclaimer: I own nothing
Author's Note: Previous parts can be found here. Betaed by the lovely mithen! :)

It had been six days. Six days of hiding, six days of watching the mercenaries, gathering intelligence. Six days of waiting.

Fortunately, the mercenaries had not moved in those days. But then, it had been snowing, and a bitter wind had blown. They did not know the terrain; it would have been pure stupidity for them to have advanced.

But now, at last, they had got word from the scouts. One of Bruce's and one of Dick's men had met, sharing information. Dick had met up with Jason and Cassandra, and they were ready to move. With a force of nearly two thousand men. It seemed the people of Bludhaven were ready to fight to protect their homes after all.

But there had been no word from any of the scouts of any soldiers approaching from Metropolis. Had something had happened to Kal? Were they under attack as well? Bruce bit his lip in concern, and shivered in his cold armour at a cruel gust of wind.

They could wait no longer, regardless of if there was any aid coming from Metropolis or not. The mercenaries were making preparations to move themselves into Gotham proper, while the weather was clear.

They could not let that happen. Dick, Jason and Cass were already moving forward from the south. Bruce and his men would come from the east. Hopefully, the mercenaries would be surprised, and fall back, until the looming mountains trapped them in. Hopefully. It was less than ideal, but it was all they could do, with less than four thousand men.

Bruce stifled a sigh as he put his helmet on. But, he had to admit to himself, deep down in his heart, it was better than endless rounds of paperwork. He had missed this even more than he had realized. He strapped his sword on, then strode out of his tent.

The men were ready and waiting. Some would remain here, to guard the camp, and, if it came to the worst, bring word to Barbara, Tim and Stephy, Alfred, Leslie and Lucius of their defeat.

Bruce mounted his horse. He would do everything in his power to ensure it did not come to that. Harvey came up to his side on his own horse, and Bruce nodded at him.

"I'll see you later," Harvey smiled at him, a small lifting of his lips, but his eyes were shadowed.

"Yes," Bruce nodded.

Gordon gave the order, and with Bruce, The Dark Knight, the King, leading them, they went forth to battle.

*****

It was chaos. Bruce had lost sight of Gordon and Harvey a long time ago, and his horse. They had surprised the mercenaries, yes. That part of the plan had worked perfectly. But they had been surprised in return at how large their number were. Reinforcements must have arrived during the night.

Dick, Jason and Cassandra had brought their men up from the south. That had worked as well. But they were hopelessly outnumbered.

Bruce dodged another vicious blow. They kept aiming for him, of course, if they killed him they would almost certainly win the battle. Bruce wished he had said goodbye to Kal properly, to his brothers and sisters, left them letters of farewell, at least.

He did not want to kill the mercenaries, he was trying to only wound them, and he was paying for it. He slipped on the wet ground, the snow having turned to slush under so many feet, of both men and horses. A sword arced down, catching the weak sunlight and glinting. Bruce just managed to block it as the horns sounded.

For a moment, the fighting stopped, as everyone tried to understand what was going on. Bruce quickly regained his footing, disarmed and knocked out his opponent, then frowned at what he saw.

From the north, soldiers were coming. Even from this distance, he could tell that most of them were women. He squinted at the banner, recognising it in the back of his mind.... The new soldiers were led by a woman with dark hair, clad in red and blue and gold.

More horns sounded, this time from the west. Bruce jerked, quickly turning his attention away from the north. He had heard those horns almost every single day for four years. Metropolis. They appeared, as the soldiers from the north had done, over a small hill. The weak sunlight glinted off their armour, and at their head...

Bruce's heart leaped. Kal. Kal! The horns sounded again, the forces from Metropolis and the north crashed down the hills, and the battle resumed once more.

*****

Bruce fought his way to Kal's side, desperate to be beside his lover once more. There were guards around Kal, defending him, but they were slowly getting separated. The mercenaries were panicking, not expecting such reinforcements, not on their unprotected flanks. Now the numbers were even, a fair fight at last.

Bruce finally reached Kal's side, blocking an ax with his sword that would have hewn his lover's head in two, disarming the mercenary, then hitting him on the head with the pommel of his sword, making him fall to the ground.

Kal turned, and looked at him, slightly wide eyed, and Bruce realized suddenly that Kal had no idea it was him in the armour. He was not sure how far the tales of The Dark Knight had spread, but he gathered in most of them his identity was not known. He had started that deliberately, so he would not be treated like a Prince, just another warrior, when he began his time leading the soldiers of Gotham. But his fame had spread until The Dark Knight, as he became named, was just as well known as Crown Prince Bruce Wayne of Gotham. He had never told Kal he and The Dark Knight were one and the same, it had simply never come up.

But all those thoughts and realizations were swept away as he saw Kal's eyes. He could not stop himself from breathing his name. "Kal."

Somehow, over the din of the battle, Kal heard, his eyes going wide. "Bruce?"

And then Bruce did something incredibly stupid. He took his helmet off. Kal did the same, and they kissed passionately as the battle raged around them.

They were both panting, gasping for air once they broke apart. "Bruce." Kal said his name again, and Bruce could not stop himself from smiling. But he carefully put his helmet back on, Kal echoing his movements after blinking for a second.

"Kal!" A woman's voice called out, clear and joyous. The woman who had been leading the other force, from the north. She was not wearing a helmet; her hair was flowing free and spots of blood were on her face. But her eyes were alight with blue flame, and a fierce smile was on her lips.

"Diana," Kal said, inclining his head, then turned to him. Bruce could hear the smile in his voice. "Bruce, this is Diana, Princess of Themyscira. Diana, this is Bruce, the King-"

His introduction was cut off by mercenaries sweeping forward around them. Diana laughed, and Bruce felt something in him resonant at the sound. "It is nice to met you! Kal has told me a lot about you. We will have to talk later!"

Bruce just nodded, but that seemed to be enough for her. She moved on, cutting a path through the mercenaries, making Bruce blink at the quickness of it. He looked around. Kal's back was against his own. He was not sure where Dick or Jason or Cass were. Or Harvey and Gordon. He hoped they were safe.

The leaders of the mercenaries started calling for a retreat, causing a great roar to go up, whether from the mercenaries or the allies in triumph, he was not sure. But the mercenaries were desperate now: this was not the way they had planed this to go. And when men were desperate they became their most dangerous.

Bruce was moving forward when there was an explosion to his left. He staggered, the force of it knocking many to their feet. Kal's arm went about him, steadying them both. They looked to their left - the battle had been silenced by the blast. But Bruce felt a chill run through him, a shiver going down his spine.

He started to make his way towards where the blast had come from, Kal following him, calling out for him to wait. The mercenaries were pushing him back, moving in the opposite direction. They were in full retreat now, but Bruce... He knew he had to get to where the blast had been. Something was calling him there.

He was completely cut off from Kal as the flow of men grew greater, but at least they were not fighting him. Many men, both mercenaries and allies were on the ground, some not moving, others holding their heads, or other body parts. But something was calling Bruce closer still, until he was at the very centre of the blast.

A lone solder lay face down in the melted snow. Harvey.

Bruce knelt by his side, dropping his sword, then very carefully rolled his friend's limp body over. And gasped in horror at what he saw. "Harvey!"

Happy Birthday!

Sat, 03 Oct 2009 18:06:42 GMT

Happy Birthday isilweth!

I'll post a Pieter/Michael fic for you soon, I promise. :) Do you have anything in mind...?

Drabble: Golden Lasso

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 18:25:51 GMT

Title: Golden Lasso
Rating: PG
Characters/Pairing: Diana, Bruce, Clark (implied Bruce/Clark)
Word Count:
Disclaimer: I own nothing
Author's Note: For my dcu_freeforall Trinity table. Prompt of Golden Lasso. Unbetaed, so point and I shall correct.

Diana looked down thoughtfully at the lasso in her hands. The golden rope glimmered, almost curling around her hands and wrists of its own accord.

She smiled, and coiled it carefully. She didn't need it to know the truth. She never had.

She put it back on her hip, ready for the next battle, the next foe.

*****

Diana was watching Bruce and Clark argue after the latest battle. Superman been hit with a magic spell, and still didn't have his powers back fully. Batman had been injured as a consequence of one of Green Lantern's blasts of energy being rebounded.

Both of them had already yelled at Hal, though truthfully it had been no one's fault. Diana caught a look in Kal's eye, a certain turn of Bruce's body, and frowned to herself.

She felt the Lasso's weight on her hip, almost yearning to reach out and harness the truth from Bruce and Clark. She might not need it to be completely truthful to herself - or to others around her - but maybe her friends did.

*****

Diana sawed at the chains binding her with her tiara. The metal of the links was extra dense, making it harder to saw through, but she didn't linger in wondering why or how. It was just an inconvenience stopping her from fighting.

Her lasso was missing, but she didn't worry about that, either. It wouldn't stay away from her for long; it was the truth, after all, and she was it's guardian. It would come back to her, she had no doubt about that.

The chains gave at last, and she smiled fiercely, putting her tiara back on her head. Time to show these people the folly of angering an Amazon.

*****

Later, when the battle is over, Bruce gives her back her lasso. He doesn't say anything, but then, he doesn't have to. His body is less tense, and she can tell his eyes are lighter behind the cowl.

Later still, she sees Clark, and his smile is freer that it has ever been before; when he sees Batman his eyes light up like blue flames.

Diana doesn't even try to hide her smile, or her satisfaction.

Fic: The Cacophony of Bats Wings (8/13)

Sun, 27 Sep 2009 18:11:10 GMT

Title: The Cacophony of Bats Wings (8/13)
Rating: PG
Characters/Pairing: Bruce/Kal, Barbara, Dick, Tim, Jim, Harvey
Word Count: 1683
Disclaimer: I own nothing
Author's Note: Previous parts can be found here. Betaed by the wonderful mithen! :)

For a moment, everyone froze. The horns... The call to arms, for every man and woman able to bear them...

The courtyard erupted into movement again, this time chaos, and Bruce suddenly found himself the centre of attention. "Every man and woman able to bear arms, ready to depart." He ordered, already moving back towards the castle. "Dick, keep your men here until all are ready to leave. Captain Gordon, pick men to remain and guard the castle."

They nodded, shouting orders as Bruce felt his mind reeling. The horns... they had not been heard in years. The mercenaries? It must be. He felt a sliver of fear, quickly drowned by worry. He was inside the castle now, Ace trotting at his side, loyal as ever, Barbara and Tim and Stephanie just behind him.

"Bruce! My Lord!" Harvey appeared beside him, but Bruce did not slow down. "Let me ride with them." Bruce did pause now, looking at his friend intently. "Please", Harvey whispered, and Bruce nodded, reaching out to grasp Barbara's arm to prevent her from moving beyond him, Harvey already gone to arm himself.

"Barbara. I need you to stay here." He felt his youngest brother and sister pause behind them.

Barbara's eyes flashed with fire. "What?"

"I need you to stay here. In case we do not come back."

Barbara opened her mouth to say something, but Tim beat her. "We?" He had lowered the hood on his cloak and was looking at him with narrowed eyes.

Bruce took a deep breath. "I am going with them." They all opened their mouths to speak now, but Bruce cut them off with a slice of his hand. "No. I need you to stay here. All of you. If we do not come back... You need to be here."

"But-"

"No." His voice was forceful, commanding. The voice of the King of Gotham.

Barbara's eyes flashed again, but she nodded, slowly echoed by Tim and Stephanie. Bruce nodded as well, moving onto his room, relief flowing over him that he did not need to fight them more. He needed them here, for if he, Dick, Jason and Cassandra did not come back... The throne would still be secure, in the bloodline. Barbara would make an excellent queen.

He reached his room, finding Alfred inside, waiting for him. Somehow, he had known of Bruce's intentions, and had his armour ready for him. Ace whined at his feet, and Bruce took a moment to pet him thoroughly. The dog could not go with them, he simply could not keep up. "Stay. Protect." He instructed. Ace whined again, before licking his face, his hands. "Good boy."

He scratched his ears one last time, making Ace's tail thump against the floor, before standing, and letting Alfred clothe him in his armour.

*****

The courtyard was slightly less chaotic now, a more organized chaos. Barbara was overseeing things. Bruce paused in the doorway, settling into his armour, feeling its weight, the weight of the sword hanging by his side, the heavy cloak down his back, the helmet upon his head.

He could hear his heart thumping in his ears; excitement and anticipation curled in his stomach. He stepped outside and the courtyard stilled. "The Dark Knight!" People whispered as he passed.

Bruce knew his dark armour was gleaming dully, even under the grey skies. He paused next to Barbara. "I entrust Gotham into your hands, sister."

She nodded, inclining her head in a bow. "I will look after Gotham until you return, brother."

Bruce nodded again, then moved forwards, to where his horse, Kal's horse, was standing next to Dick's. Only half the men were ready to go, most of them Dick's men. He nodded at his brother. "I will take this first group. You catch us up with the rest."

Dick nodded, a hint of reluctance in his eyes, as well as a hint of awe. Of course, it had been a long time since he had worn his armour, since The Dark Knight had been needed.

Bruce was going to make up for lost time.

He mounted his horse, nodded at the ready men, then inclined his head at his siblings, at Alfred, Leslie and Lucius, at Ace, sitting at Tim's side. He took in the castle, the courtyard, the people. His people. His land.

Bruce took a deep breath, then nodded at Gordon who had mounted his horse. "Lets go."

*****

Night was falling. They had pressed the horses hard, but they were still too far away. Frustration curled inside Bruce, and he pushed it down, annoyed. Yes, they needed to get there as soon as possible, but it would not do any good for them to get killed or injured, or even be too exhausted to give aid once they arrived at the borders.

Gordon knew his men well, and had sent several on to scout. They could not be completely certain that this was not a trap to empty the castle of nearly all her defenders so it could be seized.

Bruce almost pitied anyone foolish enough to do so while Barbara was there to defend it.

The scouts had reported that Dick and his men were following, though they were many hours distant. They had also reported that the way ahead was clear, for now. Bruce frowned. It was possible they had missed something, and yet...

They needed to start looking for a place to camp. The moon was gone, and when it returned it would be too weak to light their way in darkness. Only in the direst need would they travel then, in the freezing night cold.

The shadows lurked about them, curling closer. Bruce looked at Gordon in silent question.

"They say there is a place a mile ahead, my Lord, that is well sheltered from prying eyes."

Bruce nodded in approval. "Make sure that Richard and his people can find us, if they press on."

Gordon nodded in acknowledgement. There was a cry ahead, moving down the ranks of men like a ripple. It seemed as if some of the scouts had found two soldiers of Jason and Cassandra's people. Bruce and Gordon pressed forward to see them.

"There were too many! So many... We were outnumbered, and had to scatter. I've never seen so many mercenaries... It's taken us this long just to regroup. The Prince and Princess sent us out, back to the castle, to get reinforcements, and with instructions to use the horns..."

Some of the soldiers started talking to them, calming them slightly. Bruce glanced up at the sky; dark clouds were forming, threatening snow. To fight in Winter was folly, for all sides involved. "We will have a war council once camp is set."

Gordon nodded again, and they pressed on to the campsite.

*****

Bruce had had his tent set up, and Gordon had quickly come in to start their strategy. Bruce had mostly taken off his armour - there had been no time for a squire to be found for him, nor would have accepted bringing a child into danger like this - and he was undoing his gauntlets. Candle light glimmered, casting eerie shadows.

"The lookouts report a fire a few miles behind us," Gordon reported as soon as he entered.

Bruce nodded. "Then Richard decided not to press on. Have you heard more from the two soldiers?"

It was Gordon's turn to nod. "They say there were many thousands of mercenaries. Many thousands."

Bruce drew a deep breath. None of them had expected this. Not for there to be this number of mercenaries. They had never numbered so many before. And how was it that they had all come together in the first place? This attack had obviously been planned for a long time.

Harvey slipped into the tent, starting his report. "According to the two soldiers, Prince Jason and Princess Cassandra's forces were scattered, but they have ordered their men to regroup in Bludhaven. The mercenaries have maybe divided their forces - some to attack Bludhaven, maybe, or just keep the men there - the rest to carry on into Gotham proper." Harvey paused. "We have nearly one thousand, five hundred men here, my Lord," he concluded.

Bruce nodded. "We can expect Richard to have about the same number. We do not know how many men Jason and Cassandra have left."

Gordon nodded again, sighing. "We can guess two hundred, maybe. Maybe. They might be able to bolster their ranks, if the people of Bludhaven rally, but... They are not known for being co-operative."

Bruce sighed. "We have nearly three thousand men, then. That is not going to be enough." He paused. "We must ask for reinforcements from our ally, Metropolis." He had had to remove Kal's ring from his finger in order for his gauntlets to fit. He had put it on a chain around his neck, and it now rested over his heart. Bruce could feel it, warm against his skin.

Gordon nodded in agreement. There was a flash in Harvey's left eye, but he nodded as well.

"Then see to it. Have the men continue to scout ahead, and..." He paused again, considering. They did not really have many options, outnumbered as they were. "Have someone relay a message to Richard's men. They are to go to Bludhaven and unite with the forces there. At least we know we will be coming in two directions, then, and may surprise the mercenaries."

Gordon and Harvey exchanged a look, before nodding and bowing, then leaving the tent. Bruce was alone for the first time that day. No Ace was there to lie at his feet and pet. No one.

He sighed, anxiety curling in his stomach. He could only hope he was doing the right thing.

*****

High above, into the freezing darkness of the night, fires were lit atop the mountain range that stretched from Gotham to Metropolis, lighting a message of need.

Drabble: Joy

Sat, 26 Sep 2009 18:17:09 GMT

Title: Joy
Rating: PG
Paring: Steve/Diana
Word Count: 111
Disclaimer: I own nothing
Author's Note: For bradygirl_12's birthday! A little early... :pI hope you like it, Brady! Unbetaed, so point and I shall correct.

Diana smiled as she watched her lover display his prowess as a pilot. His plane swooped through the air in arcs, the pilot's joy and fearlessness visible in every move.

She ached to be up there in the sky with him, to be sharing that joy, to be able to see his face and laugh with him, their joy echoing around them. But at the moment she was bound to the Earth by her identity.

Later, though, they would take to the skies together, only she would do the flying; Steve's face would be lit by the sun, and her hair would twine about them as they kissed, again and again.

Fic: The Cacophony of Bats Wings (7/13)

Sun, 20 Sep 2009 18:26:51 GMT

Title: The Cacophony of Bats Wings (7/13)
Rating: PGish
Characters/Pairing: Bruce/Kal, Harvey, Barbara, Dick, Alfred
Word Count: 2957
Disclaimer: I own nothing
Author's Note: Previous parts can be found here. Betaed by the ever awesome mithen!

It was a week since Harvey had been removed from the council, and Bruce was reviewing the situation. Jason, of course, was dead-set against him being allowed to return. Dick, and Barbara herself, were slightly more sympathetic, but it was clear they did not trust Harvey.

He supposed he could not blame them for that. But Lucius had agreed to keep a very close watch on Harvey, and... Bruce could not attend every council session, it was why he had appointed Barbara in the first place. He was just so busy with so many other things - and, he admitted to himself, he did get very involved in his tasks, not bothering to measure time - that he simply could not be there as often as he would like.

He had seen Harvey this morning, after breakfast. He had been helping to clear the snow that had fallen over night from the courtyard, and they had spoken. His friend had looked a lot more relaxed, a lot more settled. Bruce was not quite sure if he should bring him back into the council, or let him have a few more days rest. He had not seen Harvey look so calm in years.

Maybe he should give his friend a few more days of peace before imposing on him again. To truly give him time to rest. He seemed to have come to some level of peace within himself, and Bruce did not want to disturb that.

He sighed, causing Ace to raise to raise his head and look at him with big eyes. Bruce petted his dog, smiling slightly to himself as Ace's tail thumped against the floor. At least Stephanie seemed to be doing better now; Tim was keeping a very close eye on her, and she seemed to be coping. It did not stop him worrying about her, but it did make his heart a little lighter. Tim and Cass were looking after her, and would pull him in, if necessary.

Bruce felt a rush of gratitude to his siblings, and smiled again. The smile faded as he remembered yet another decision he would have to make, and soon. If he should send soldiers to the borders or not, following reports of great bands of mercenaries gathering. It was odd - it was Winter, they should be going home. No one fought in Winter. Maybe they were just using the borders of Gotham as a gathering point, or they were making plans to attack Gotham in the Spring, after they had gone home.

Bruce frowned. He would call a council this afternoon, he decided. They would discuss the situation and hopefully decide on a course of action.

*****

"We should at least look into it, discover what they are doing!" Barbara argued.

"We do not have the resources available."

"What matter will those 'resources' be if we are surprised and all killed?"

And back and forth it went, as it had nearly all afternoon. The council was neatly divided down the middle, half arguing that soldiers should be sent to reinforce the borders, the other half saying it would be a waste of time, and more importantly, of food and manpower.

And back and forth it raged. Bruce sighed to himself, watching everyone, seeing who had sided with what. Lucius was trying his best to keep the peace. Curiously, the other person who was staying mostly silent was Captain Gordon, who was watching everything with a slight frown. Interesting.

The debate started all over again and Bruce leaned forward in his chair, feeling the weight of the crown upon his head. Everyone fell silent. "These are all valid points. We do not have the manpower, and nor do we want to provoke the mercenaries with a show of force." There was restless movement. "However, we should investigate what is going on, and see if they pose a threat."

He nodded at Gordon. "How many men can we muster at short notice, Captain?"

There was no hesitation. "Close to a thousand, but more if we send word to the outlying settlements."

Bruce nodded. "Therefore, I suggest we send a small force - maybe three hundred men - to the borders." More restless movement, but most of the council members nodded. "I suggest the forces be led by Prince Jason and Princess Cassandra," he continued, seeing Dick look at him sharply, maybe wondering...

"They can be broken into groups who can scout and gather intelligence." More nods. Nearly everyone seemed to agree, which was a minor miracle. "They will leave in three days," he decided.

There were yet more nods, and some respectful bows. "I shall see to it, my Lord." Gordon said, before bowing, and moving towards to the doors. Bruce nodded to himself, and everyone started to slowly leave.

Dick stayed behind after everyone had left. Bruce wanted to take the crown off, but did not have anywhere safe to put it. So on his head it remained.

"Why aren't you sending me?" Dick finally asked, and there was definite hurt and anger in his eyes now.

Bruce swallowed a sigh. "I can not take the risk."

"What risk?"

"You are my heir, Dick."

His brother seemed to deflate. "But... you always headed these missions before..."

Bruce nodded. "When I was the heir. Yes. But it was always made sure I was safe. We do not have that luxury now." Dick looked slightly rebellious still. Bruce did sigh now. "Dick, I need you here." He looked at him. "If we need to send reinforcements... then, you may lead them."

Dick smiled now, and Bruce felt a vast sense of relief. It was so difficult, trying to balance everyone's needs, to do what he thought was best for Gotham, for her people, for his brothers and sisters... and maybe he was selfish. He absentmindedly played with Kal's ring.

"All right. I'm sorry, I do understand you need me here, but..." It was Dick's turn to sigh. "It's just so frustrating. I want to be out there."

Bruce smiled wryly now, and stood up. "We both do."

Dick smiled sheepishly, then stood up as well, and they walked to the door together. His brother was still adjusting to being the Crown Prince, not just a Prince any longer. He probably had not realized how limiting it was.

But now, Bruce needed to tell Jason and Cassandra of their new roles, and once more work through the pile of papers and letters that awaited him in his study.

*****

Jason and Cassandra had responded enthusiastically when he had told them of their new mission, and were choosing the best men from their re-trained forces to accompany them. Bruce had retreated to his study, Ace falling in at his side, then, after being taken out by Tim and Stephy. It had been a long day, but he had more work to do. He should make an appearance in public, go to dinner in the great hall, but... work would always come first.

When he reached his study, he was started by a throat clearing behind him. He turned and saw Alfred there, a plate of food in his hands. Bruce smiled wryly and opened the door to his study properly, Alfred following him in.

"How are the wood supplies, Alfred?" He asked, nodding at the newly lit fire, only a few logs by its side to be thrown on, when needed.

Alfred carefully placed the plate upon his desk. "They are... adequate, sir."

Bruce winced, but nodded. "Thank you, Alfred."

Alfred nodded, but did not turn to go. Bruce sat behind his desk, Ace stretching out in front of the fire, and looked at the other man in question.

A hint of a smile touched Alfred's lips. "Another letter from Metropolis has arrived, sir."

Bruce felt his heart leap as Alfred withdrew it. He gently took it from him like it would crumble into dust. "Thank you again, my friend."

Alfred nodded again, then quietly left. Bruce's stomach rumbled, and he pulled the plate of food closer. It smelt delicious. Very carefully, he opened Kal's letter, wanting to draw the moment out as long as he could. They were over far too quickly, after all.

He took a mouthful of food, then slowly started to read.

Bruce,

How are you? I hope you are well, and looking after yourself, love. I am fine, though I miss you terribly, and my Mother still talks of nothing but our wedding.

I am relieved you have taken action with the council, and I hope you will not have any more problems with your new one. I hope you are not overworking yourself either, my love. I know you need to do a lot of work for Gotham, but you will do no good if you are too exhausted to help.

I hope you are sleeping better now, as well. I am, slightly, for at least in my dreams I can see you.

So far the snow here has been light, and I pray it continues to be, both here and in Gotham. Being apart from you is terrible enough, but not even having these letters...

Krypto has settled in now. He is still very boisterous, and does many silly things - nothing like Ace! Still, I think they will like each other, in time.

We have a visitor staying with us, for a time: Diana, Princess of Themyscira. She is a fierce warrior, and I have enjoyed talking with her; she reminds me of you, in some ways. It has been nice to be able to talk freely to someone about you, to share memories. I do not think you have ever met? She has heard of you, anyway, and of your actions here. It seems your legend has spread further than you or I realized.

I miss you so much, and I have begun discussing dates with my parents for my departure in the Spring. I might be able to stay for longer, this time. I certainly hope so. All Summer, at least, I instead to stay with you, no matter what my Father says. For we will be married then, and nothing can change that.

Krypto wants me to take him on a walk now, so I shall draw this letter to a close. I miss you. I love you, my Bruce.

Eternally yours,

Kal.

P.S. I suppose it is nothing, but the border guards have been making mention of mercenaries traveling in odd patterns, and in the direction of Gotham. If you need any aid, just let us know, and we will be there.

Bruce carefully folded the letter, though worry and fear and the keenness of Kal's absence lanced his heart, suddenly. That even in Metropolis they could see something was wrong with the mercenaries, that they had heard rumours.... That was deeply unsettling.

And, on a more personal note, this 'Diana'... While Bruce knew Kal loved him, and would never betray him, the old thoughts about his lover needing an heir returned.

He wondered what Jor-El was up to.

*****

Jason and Cassandra had left this morning, taking three hundred men to the borders. Captain Gordon had remained, by Bruce's request - they needed men, good men here now that so many were gone. And the soldiers' training still had to continue, of course. Maybe Dick could help them there? Bruce did not want too push his brother too far, give him too much to do, and yet he wanted to him to feel included, to not feel left out. Complicated.

Bruce sighed. Kal's latest letter still troubled him, and he was unsettled, with Jason and Cass gone. It was a fool's errand to send them out in Winter, with the cold and snow and long dark nights. Even now, mid-afternoon, darkness was starting to creep in, and a gentle - deceptively gentle - snow was falling.

Bruce sighed again. Ace, who was lying nearly on his feet, tensed, his head raising, a low growl emanating from his throat. A knock on the door. Ace barked, rising to his feet, teeth bared. Bruce looked up from his letter to Jor-El, his reply to Kal's already written and drying, and called out 'Enter.'

Ace barked again as the door slowly opened, revealing Harvey's form. Bruce felt his heart lighten; Harvey looked so much more relaxed and at peace than he had before. He wrapped his fingers around Ace's collar, carefully restraining him, and gestured for his friend to sit in the chair before his desk.

"How are you?" He asked, gently pulling Ace back and stroking his ears with his other hand, Kal's ring catching in the light.

Harvey smiled, a true, deep smile. "I feel much better now. Thank you."

Bruce smiled himself. "Good. I am very glad to hear that."

Harvey smiled brilliantly. "Then... will you put me back on the council? Please?" His eyes were beseeching, wide and blue.

Bruce paused a moment, thinking. He knew that some would oppose Harvey's return, but the truth was they needed him there, now more than ever, since so many were gone to the borders. He nodded, and Harvey's grin outshone the sun; his whole body sagged in relief.

Bruce petted Ace's ears again as he growled lowly.

"Thank you, Bruce. I won't let you down again, I promise." He made an aborted movement, like he was going to reach for his hands and Ace went very still next to him.

"I will see you there tomorrow, Harvey," was all Bruce said, Kal's ring catching the light once more.

Harvey nodded and stood. "Thank you again, Bruce."

Bruce nodded, and his friend left, Ace slowly relaxing by his side, until he licked his hands, then his face. Bruce pushed him down and the dog curled up over his feet again. He returned to his letter to Jor-El, but could not help feeling unsettled over the fervor he had seen in Harvey's eyes, the desperation, the need...

Shivering slightly from the cold, Bruce started writing.

*****

Three weeks had gone by with no word from Jason or Cassandra, or any of their men. Three weeks of worry and Bruce had finally given in and ordered Dick to lead a search party, with Captain Gordon and many other men. There were preparing to leave momentary.

Bruce bit his lip, his fingers worrying Kal's ring. It was probably just bad weather. He had not received any letters from his lover since before his brother and sister had left - it was probably just heavy snow, blocking off all the paths. Or the mercenaries had blocked them off. Or... worse.

Bruce shook his head, angry with himself. It was highly likely it was just heavy snow and everything was blocked off until it melted. The price for sending men out in Winter. That was all. At least things at home had been quiet - Stephanie was continuing to improve, day by day, and Harvey had been doing well, too. True, he would sometimes get angry and yell, but he was always mortified afterwards, apologizing profusely to those involved, and to him. But he was calmer now, so Bruce was not as worried about him.

"Master Bruce."

Bruce started, turning at Alfred's voice, while Ace woofed at him happily. "Sir, Master Dick is ready to depart."

Bruce took a deep breath. "Thank you, Alfred."

Alfred nodded, stepping aside to let him pass. Bruce walked through the corridors of the castle until he emerged at the courtyard, where many people were milling about; horses neighed and stamped their hooves.

He caught sight of Barbara's flame red hair and moved towards it, nodding at his soldiers as he passed them. It was still odd, having to act like the King. He was used to it in some ways, of course, but in others... It was odd being the one who had to stay behind, who had to stay at home and worry.

Stephy was standing next to Tim, who was wrapped in a black cloak, hood covering his face, only the gleam of his eyes visible. Barbara was arguing with Dick, complaining at not being able to go with him, threatening him should he come to any harm, and ordering him to bring Jason and Cassandra back, safe and well.

Dick was clad in his battle armour, gleaming even under the grey sky. His eyes shone, too, ready for a fight, to really be able to do something... Bruce felt a sudden bolt of yearning; he desperately wanted to put on his own armour and go with Dick to fight, to do anything but the paperwork he had to do now, and before that, shirts...

He curled his hands into fists, feeling distant pain from his old wounds. He nodded at his siblings as he reached them, quieting them.

"We are ready to depart, my Lord," Dick said, bowing his head.

Bruce looked at him, at the men around the courtyard, ready to go. "Then I bid you farewell. Come back soon, and safely." He reached out and placed a hand on his brother's shoulder.

Dick seemed to grow even taller under his hand, his back going straight and rigid. "We will, my Lord."

Bruce nodded again, then stepped back to allow Dick to mount his horse, men echoing his movements all around them. He shared a glance with Tim, then the courtyard was suddenly filled with noise:

'Foes! Foes! Cried the horns. 'To arms, Gotham! To the borders! Foes! Foes!'

Drabble: Catch a Falling Star

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 18:09:05 GMT

Title: Catch a Falling Star
Rating: PG
Pairing: Bruce/Clark
Word Count: 141
Disclaimer: I own nothing
Author's Note: For the Shuffle C Challenge at worlds_finest. Unbetaed, so point and I shall correct.

Bruce looked up at the stars. They twinkled down coldly upon him. There was no moon to take away their beauty, their brilliance tonight. Nothing to outshine them, save a brighter star, when the Earth moved enough for the sun to rise.

The night air was cool against him and in his lungs. The smell of the sea was strong - the whole area stank of brine.

Sitting alone in the starlight, Bruce waited.

One of the stars began to move; a low drone filled the sky. Not what he was waiting for.

Hours passed. The stars moved about him, arching slowly across the sky. The air grew colder as dawn approached, and Bruce sighed, hiding his disappointment.

Another night wasted. His Star Child wasn't coming home today.

The palest glimmers of the dawn touched the horizon.

The stars faded away.

Fic: The Cacophony of Bats Wings (6/13)

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 18:08:21 GMT

Title: The Cacophony of Bats Wings (6/13)
Rating: PGish
Characters/Pairing: Bruce/Kal, Tim, Stephanie, Ace
Word Count: 1882
Disclaimer: I own nothing
Author's Note: Previous parts can be found here. Betaed by the wonderful mithen!

Sometime later, when Bruce had finished most of his paperwork, and was eating his lunch, he read Jor-El and Lara's letters. Jor-El was all business - the man had never liked him much. Lara's was full of a bewildering amount of wedding plans, leaving him with a headache. If that was just a fraction of what Kal had had to put with...! He grimaced, and winced in sympathy for his lover. He had half a mind to just give the letter to Alfred and let him organize it. He was much, much better at those things than Bruce would ever be.

He was just starting on his reply to Kal's letter when Ace stirred at his feet and there was a quiet knock on the door. Suspecting who it might be, Bruce rose and unlocked it, opening it slowly in case he was wrong.

Tim slipped into the room. Bruce closed and locked the door again, for now. Ace padded over and whined, nudging at Tim's legs. Bruce sat down. Tim echoed his movements. Ace went to lie in front of the fire. Bruce carefully folded away both Kal's letter and his reply, putting them in a desk drawer, for now.

Tim was watching him, his blue eyes intense. After a while, he spoke. "They're worried. You scared them."

Bruce sighed. "It was just a conversation I needed to have alone."

Tim nodded slowly, still looking at him steadily, before breaking eye contact and looking, unseeing, at the fire. "Bruce, I... I'm worried about Stephy."

Bruce frowned. "What is wrong?"

Tim looked away from the fire, but not at him, instead gazing at the single hand resting in his lap. His wing rustled slightly. "She's spent almost five years of her childhood a giant bat. She might have the body of a thirteen year old, but she's not. And when she comes back Father is gone and..."

The light from the fire caught the tears that glimmered in his brother's eyes, and Bruce immediately stood and moved forward to kneel at Tim's side and draw him into a careful hug. Ace moved as well, trying to comfort them both, as Bruce rocked them back and forth.

He closed his eyes. He should have seen this, realized this, but... Stephanie was the youngest. He had simply never been quite as close to her as he had been to Dick and Barbara, and he cursed himself over it again. "We will talk to her. Make sure she is all right," he vowed.

Tim nodded against his chest, then took a deep breath and pulled away, petting Ace. "Thank you," he whispered, and Bruce's heart ached the more because of it.

*****

The sun was shining brightly the next morning, when Bruce walked into the stables. Tim emerged from the shadows, nodding at him, and together they walked down the stalls, Ace trotting along beside them.

Bruce paused to greet his horse, the horse Kal had given him. The stallion was black, and he wondered where his other horse, the horse his Father had given him, the one he had been forced to let go that long Winter ended up. He hoped it had found a good home.

After giving his new horse a few more pets, he continued down the stalls, Tim just in front of him, until they came to a stall where a soft grey pony was eating hay. Stephanie was grooming her. She did not seem to realize they were there - she was talking to the pony, her voice high pitched, like a young girl's. Bruce closed his eyes for a brief moment.

"Stephy," Tim said, and she started. The pony just carried on eating hay, fortunately.

"Timmy! Bruce!"

Bruce tried to smile. "Hello Stephy. How are you?"

Her bright smile faded slightly, but she nodded. "I'm fine. How are you?" Her voice was still high pitched, and Bruce hid a sigh. Part of him had hoped that Tim had been wrong, that Stephanie was all right.

But she was not.

"I am fine. It is a nice morning, would you like to go for a ride?" He asked, remembering the rules they had had - Stephanie had not been allowed to go out by herself.

His sister glanced at Tim, who smiled, and produced a long black cloak that would cover him completely. "You aren't too busy?"

Bruce shook his head. "Dick and Barbara are looking after everything."

Stephy grinned, but in her eyes questions still remained. "All right!"

*****

They trotted up a small hill near the castle, Ace running by the horses' sides. Bruce led them, his horse's coat gleaming in the Winter sunlight. The frost had turned the ground silver, and he breathed deeply, feeling the cold air in his chest, a pleasant sting.

Tim and Stephy were trotting side by side; Tim had lowered the dark cloak a bit, so he was not as hidden. He seemed to be managing fine with only one hand on the reins. But Stephanie... she was too big for her pony, really. Neither he nor Tim had said anything - their sister was thin and not all that heavy. She was not hurting the animal.

Once they reached the top of the hill they halted. As ever, when Bruce came to this viewpoint, he turned and looked, saw the castle, saw Gotham. But this time, it was different. This time, looking at the castle looming over the lands stretching to the horizon, he was Gotham's King. This was his, his to hold and protect and love. His. He smiled fiercely.

Tim and Stephy came up beside him. Bruce's horse snorted, and Ace sat, panting slightly. Tim glanced at him, then nodded, turning his attention to the view.

Bruce took a deep breath of the cold Winter air. He was not looking forward to this conversation. "Stephy... how are you? Really?"

Stephanie turned large blue eyes on him. "What do you mean?"

Bruce exchanged another glance with Tim. His brother carefully dismounted from his horse, then walked over to Stephy and her pony, so he was standing next to her. Bruce watched them, and saw the understanding in Stephanie's eyes. She knew what they were talking about, she just did not want to admit it.

"Stephy... It is all right. You can talk to us. We'll understand, we won't be angry at you, I promise." Bruce dismounted as Tim spoke, his voice earnest.

"I... I don't know what you're talking about. Everything is fine!" She bit her lip and her eyes filled with tears as she fiddled with the reins and mane of her pony.

Bruce's heart broke at the sight. Stephanie... I am so so sorry... Tim just looked at her, as Bruce held onto the reins of his and Tim's horses.

"I don't-" A sob. For the first time, Stephanie's voice wasn't high as a child's. She slid off her pony and Tim caught her, wrapping her in his cloak and arm, his wing carefully extending to cradle her.

Bruce tied the horses to a nearby tree, Ace staying close by his side, before going back to his siblings and wrapping his arms about the both of them as his sister cried.

After a time, when the sun was a little higher, and the mist had started to clear, Stephanie pulled away from them. "I'm sorry," she whispered, voice hoarse.

"There is nothing for you to be sorry for." Tim carefully wiped the tears from her face. She looked at Tim, then at him, and Bruce put a hand on her shoulder.

"This is not your fault, Stephanie."

"But..." She took a deep breath, and her eyes cleared a little. "I just... I was eight, and then I was... I was a bat, and then I was thirteen and Father was... was... and everything had changed, and..."

Tim carefully hugged her again. "I know. I know. But we can change things ourselves, Stephy, Bring Gotham back. We might not be able to bring Father back... or give you back your lost years... but some things can be changed, can go back to they way they were."

Their sister looked up, first at Tim, then at Bruce. He nodded. "I... we will do everything we can to change the things that have been changed, Stephy. Make them like they were."

She looked at him, then nodded and slowly smiled, before hugging Tim again, being careful of his wing.

*****

Bruce wearily walked through the corridors heading towards his room. He should be going to his study and working, but the events of the last few days had left him exhausted. He was trying to attend every council session now, and Dick had told him when he got back from his ride with Tim and Stephanie that he had heard more rumours of mercenaries gathering at the borders. Bruce bit his lip slightly. He would have to do something about that situation, and soon.

He walked the final few steps to his room and opened the door. Ace rushed in and claimed a spot in front of the newly kindled fire. Bruce smiled tiredly and closed the door behind him, securing the latch.

He should be at dinner, really, but... he was not hungry. He just wanted to be alone, have some time to himself after everything that had happened. He sat in his chair near the fire, sighing, then carefully withdrew Kal's letters, both of them, from where he had them tucked in his shirt, over his heart. He touched them gently, then re-read them, though he already knew each word by memory.

He had almost finished his reply to Kal's second letter, about his puppy, and he was annoyed at himself for it taking him so long. To his surprise, Bruce suddenly found his eyes stinging with tears. He had never been away from Kal this long, and he missed him. He wanted nothing more than for Kal to walk in the door, enfold him in his arms and kiss him. To just have him here, someone who completely understood him, to share his burdens and love and listen and care for him...

Ace whined, his feet on the edge of the chair, looking up at him in concern. Bruce petted him, breathing deeply and blinking rapidly. His hands started to ache, and he winced. It was going to be cold tonight, maybe the first real snow. If Kal were here, he would hold his hands gently, caress them and warm them, press kisses to the scarred skin as if it did not matter...

Bruce took another deep breath. He brought his hand up, the one with Kal's ring on it, and pressed the cool metal and stones to his lips. Ace gently caught the sleeve of his other arm with his teeth and pulled him over to the bed.

He fell upon it, tucking the letters safely away again. "Kal..." he whispered. Ace burrowed under the blankets at his side.

Bruce was still cold.

Fic: The Quiver of Bats Wings

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 18:12:46 GMT

Title: The Quiver of Bats Wings
Rating: PG
Characters: Tim
Word Count: 552
Disclaimer: I own nothing
Author's Note: For mithen, who asked to see some of Tim's thoughts from the Bats Wings' universe. Set between The Beat of Bats Wings and The Echo of Bats Wings. Unbetaed, so point and I shall correct.

Tim made sure his dark cloak was wrapped well about him, only letting his eyes show. His arm ached. It was a phantom pain, of course, since he had no arm now. Only a large Bat's wing. It curled about his body, making him remember when he had truly been a Bat, not... A Bat winged human.

He sighed. Fortunately, that was all he had to put up with. The rest of him was human. Or, as human as one could be who had spent most of their childhood as a giant Bat.

Dick resented Bruce for it, and Tim thought Jason did as well. He wasn't sure about Barbara, but he knew that she would take Dick's side. It had ever been that way between them.

Stephy, though, was a little too young, mentally, at least, to understand what was going on. Cass, he wasn't so sure about. She was torn, Tim suspected, between Jason and Bruce, for she could see more than any of them the pain their oldest brother was in.

He wondered how none of the others had noticed the scars Bruce bore on his hands. He was nearly disfigured himself, from his sacrifice to save them. And now he was throwing himself into his duties so they could have the time to grieve... But at least he had Kal.

Tim didn't want to think what Bruce would do without his lover, not to mention had he not met the Prince of Metropolis in the first place... He remembered what Kal had told him about Bruce, or Blaidd, as he had called him, how he hadn't allowed himself to speak for nearly four and half years. How he had nearly died that night, consumed by fires fueled by hate.

Tim wondered how his siblings could have forgotten how Bruce's first words to them had been to apologize to him for not completing his task.

He didn't blame Bruce. How could he? It hadn't been his fault, and he had seen the tortured look in Kal's eyes when he spoke of how he had spent each night painstakingly pulling the poisoned barbs of Starwart from his hands.

Their brother had given up everything for them, though Dick didn't seem to realize that. Instead, Dick was trying to reach out to Tim, to protect him from Bruce, and Bruce was pulling further and further away from them, in fear that he had lost them, that they didn't need him anymore.

Which was wrong, of course. To be blunt, Dick didn't know how to run an kingdom, especially now, after spending so many years not even human. But he had been in charge of them when they were Bats, or as he heard Jason put it earlier, when Bruce had 'abandoned' them.

Only Cass had been able to stop him from showing Jason just how deeply their family was divided now.

They were broken, but he didn't know how to fix them. He could only hope that it could be fixed before Bruce withdrew from them completely. And if he did, then Dick would get a nasty shock as to where Tim's loyalties lied.

But for now, all he could do was watch and try to help where he could. Nodding to himself, Tim went in search of shadows.

Ficlet: Disguises

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 18:29:46 GMT

Title: Disguises
Rating: PG
Characters/Pairing: Clark/Bruce
Word Count: 405
Disclaimer: I own nothing.
Author's Note: For hitokaji, who asked for Clark/Bruce, disguises, one of them checking up on the other. I hope you like it! :) Unbetaed, so point and I shall correct.

Clark rubbed at his forehead, trying to will his headache away. It didn't work, of course. At the same time a yawn overtook him, and he nearly dropped his Blackberry, looking like a clumsy fool indeed.

He quickly moved out of the way of the people who were ignoring his existence anyway, and ended up next to a potted plant. Which suited him just fine.

There had been one crisis after another after another, both ones he had dealt with by himself and with the aid of the Justice League. He was already behind with articles that should have been handed in days ago, and now he had this party to report on... Made worse by the fact that no one had told him it was a fancy dress party....

He was torn between dying of embarrassment, the feeling familiar from Smallville, and the times tricks like this had been played on him before, and just wanting to curl up and sleep. Right on top of the potted plant, if he wasn't careful.

Clark jerked himself upright. He had to get this story done. Right. He really didn't feel like talking to people, so, just this once, he would cheat. He carefully listened in on the conversations around him, careful not to truly eavesdrop - his Ma would never forgive him if he did!

He was so intent on skimming the conversations around him that he almost missed the sound of someone walking up next to him, settling in beside him by the plant. Clark smiled. But he could never miss this heartbeat, never miss the person who was now standing by his side.

"Hey, Bru...!" He blinked.

Standing next to him was Superman.

Clark blinked again.

A Bat's smirk touched Superman's face, and Clark blinked once more.

"Bruce?" He whispered. It was freaky. Bruce was a shade shorter than him, and his eyes were darker; his stance was all wrong, somewhere between playboy and vigilante, but for Clark's overtired mind...

"I wanted to check up on you. When was the last time you slept?"

Clark stared at him. "Uh..."

"That's what I thought. From now on, you're on holiday."

"But..."

"Don't worry, Clark. I'm sure your employer won't mind. I'll see you later."

Stunned, Clark watched him move away, back into the party. He shook his head slowly, wondering if he was hallucinating from sleep deprivation.

He must be more tired than he thought.

Fic: The Cacophony of Bats Wings (5/13)

Sun, 06 Sep 2009 18:32:49 GMT

Title: The Cacophony of Bats Wings (5/13)
Rating: PGish
Characters/Pairing: Bruce/Kal, Harvey, Dick, Jason, Barbara
Word Count: 1553
Disclaimer: I own nothing
Author's Note: Previous parts can be found here. Betaed by the great mithen!

Dick was yelling, eyes wild, seeking blood. Jason was not much better. Cass was standing next to an confused Stephy, who was watching everyone with huge eyes. Barbara was sitting quietly, one side of her pale face slightly red, starting to turn purple, and Bruce felt his own anger rising at the sight of it.

Dick and Jason quietened when he entered his siblings' room, the one they all slept in, where he had used to sleep until he had been given his own space. The blankets were rolled up now, though, the floor was free from clutter for the day. Bruce walked over to where Barbara was sitting against a wall, then crouched down next to her, Ace sitting beside them. "Barbara. Are you hurt?"

Her blue eyes sparkled defiance, though her hand came up to cover her cheek. She shook her head.

Bruce nodded, then sat next to her, looking at their brothers and sisters. Tim had gone over to Cass and Stephy, and they were sitting also, against the opposite wall. Dick and Jason remained standing.

"What happened?" Bruce asked.

Dick started forward, but Jason beat him. "He hit Babs!"

Bruce took a deep breath. "Yes, I know. But I need to know what happened."

Jason opened his mouth again, eyes furious, and Dick started forward again, but this time Barbara beat both of them. "We were in the council. The other members had left. Only Dick and Lucius were still there." Bruce nodded. "We were talking about the harvest, about how we don't have enough crops to last through Winter."

Bruce nodded again, inwardly wincing, being reminded of another of his many failures to his people already. "Dick and Lucius were having another conversation, but I suggested to Harvey that we could seek aid from Metropolis."

Bruce nodded once more, his thoughts flashing to Kal, touching his ring and remembering reading his letter... was it only a few hours ago? "Harvey disagreed. At first he just shouted, but when I argued back..." She trailed off.

Bruce saw Dick flinch. He looked at his sister; her eyes were still defiant. "I am sorry I was not there." He hugged her carefully, then stood up, Barbara and Ace echoing him.

He looked over at Jason - Dick had already moved, and was standing next to Barbara. Bruce looked at them steadily. "Thank you for explaining, Barbara. I need to speak to Harvey before I-"

Jason cut him off. "You're not saying you don't believe her?"

"No. I am simply saying that I need to hear Harvey's viewpoint before I decide what should be done. However I will, temporarily at least, remove him from the council."

Jason muttered and glared, but Cass silently stood up and placed a hand on his arm. He quietened, and Bruce looked back at Dick and Barbara. His sister nodded at him. "Thank you."

Dick's eyes still blazed with anger, but there was a hint of sympathy for him, for his position. But it was enough. Bruce did not need to worry about Dick doing anything rash at least.

He nodded at them all before he left his old room, Ace close by his side, and went to find his friend.

*****

He found Harvey in the library, in the darkest section, where no light from the windows or the fire could reach. He leapt up when he saw Bruce, and guilt flooded his face.

Bruce stood before him, Ace at his side, but he was aware he was not truly Bruce right now. He was the King of Gotham. He could feel eyes upon him, watching him and Harvey, and he knew that Cassandra had followed him.

"My Lord." Harvey's eyes flickered away from his face, his head bowed. Was he shaking?

"Until this matter has been resolved, you are removed from the council."

Harvey looked up at him, his hands curled in fists. "I understand."

The King of Gotham fell away, and Bruce looked at his friend in open concern. This was not a conversation to be had here, where anyone could overhear. "Come with me," he beckoned, and walked out of the library, Harvey following him, Ace by his side.

He lead them to his study, then closed and locked the door before Cass could slip in. This was a conversation he had to have alone. He sat behind his desk, Harvey sitting opposite him, the desk between them. Ace stood at his side, tense.

There was a knock on the door, a moment after someone had tried to open it. Bruce resumed eating his lunch. He ignored the sounds from outside the room. Harvey half turned to face the door as the knocking grew insistent. "Shouldn't you-"

"Dick can deal with it." He pushed the plate aside after only one mouthful of food and leaned forward. "Harvey. What is going on? Why did you...?"

Shame and guilt flushed across his friends face. The knocking at the door stopped. "I'm sorry, Bruce, I'm so sorry..." Harvey covered his face with a hand. "Is Princess Barbara all right?" There was real concern in his eyes.

Bruce nodded, and Harvey's shoulders sagged. "I'm sorry, I don't know what came over me..." he continued.

Bruce nodded again, remembering Barbara's explanation, about her plan to ask Metropolis for aid. For once, Bruce restrained himself from touching Kal's ring. He could not help but think he was partly responsible for this. If Harvey's feelings for him were as deep as he suspected, then, maybe, any mention of Metropolis was going to set him off. He had not broken the news very gently to Harvey, after all, and had then immediately set him to work for the council, after he had been away for over four years...

It was his fault, he should have given Harvey more time to adjust to everything, to all the changes that had happened while he had been gone.

"I just..." Harvey's voice faltered. "I'm so sorry, Bruce." He looked at him directly now, and Bruce could see the pain and guilt in his eyes. Ace was still tense at his side, and he reached over and petted him, stroking his soft ears, until his body very slowly relaxed, and he sat, before licking his hands.

Someone knocked on the door, much more forcefully. No doubt his brothers and sisters were not happy at his actions. Bruce sighed, and leaned forward in his chair again. "Harvey," he began, not totally sure what he was going to say next. "I am going to give you a few days off the council. You will apologise to Barbara." Harvey nodded. "Before we speak again."

Harvey nodded again, eyes downcast. The pounding on the door continued; Ace whined, confused, until Harvey reached forward and very carefully touched his scarred hand that was resting on his desk. Ace stood then and growled loudly, baring his teeth, until Harvey moved his hand away. Bruce petted his dog again.

"I'm sorry, Bruce," he apologised again. "For putting you in this position." Bruce nodded. Harvey paused. "I just... I want to help, Bruce. In any way I can. And sometimes, I just... don't agree with what other people say and I just can't seem to stop myself..." Harvey covered his face with his hand again.

"Harvey." Harvey looked at him, lowering his hand slightly. Bruce tried to smile. "I know I have not been at as many council sessions as I should. But Dick, Barbara and Lucius have been telling me about them, and all the things you have already done for Gotham, my friend. All the things you did while I was not here, all you sacrificed. I thank you for it. But, you deserve to have a rest, Harvey. Even if just for a week. I think it would help you."

His voice was hoarse after his finished speaking, his throat dry. He was sure that apart from his crowning, that was the longest thing he had uttered since the curse was laid upon his siblings.

Harvey looked relived. "Thank you, Bruce. I... thank you."

Bruce nodded and stood, Ace close by his side. Harvey stood also, as Bruce moved around the desk to the door. He paused before unlocking it, and looked at his friend. "I am glad you are here, Harvey."

Harvey smiled at him, a smile tinged with sadness. "I'm glad I'm here too."

Bruce nodded, unlocked the door, and opened it, Dick nearly falling into him. Bruce righted him and glanced at his friend, then at his siblings.

Harvey nodded, then turned to face Barbara. "Your Highness. Please, accept my deepest apologies and regrets for my actions of today." He bowed low.

Barbara nodded at him, silently accepting his apology. Jason seemed torn between glaring at him and Bruce. Harvey looked back at him, and Bruce nodded. Harvey nodded again, at them all, before leaving, walking down the corridor. Jason and Dick cast him one last dark look.

Bruce found himself faced with six pairs of eyes. He sighed to himself and raised a hand before they could speak. "Later," was all he said, before quickly closing the door and locking it again.

Ficlet: Lost Friends

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 18:32:19 GMT

Title: Lost Friends
Rating: PG
Characters: Bruce, Ra's al Ghul, Clark
Word Count: 429
Disclaimer: I own nothing
Warnings: Movieverse
Author's Note: For Anon, who asked for Henri and Bruce, with Superman a friend. This... didn't really turn out that way! I'm sorry... My Bruce!Muse was in a bit of a mood when I wrote this. I hope you like it anyway. Unbetaed, so point and I shall correct. And tenses are EVIL!

Batman looked at the wreckage below him, of what had almost happened to Gotham. His chest ached, both with the injuries he had sustained during the fire - he flinched away from the memory of his Father's house, of everything of his Mother's and Father's that had been left burning, forever beyond him now - and from him fight with the members of the League of Shadows and... Ra's.

Not Henri.

Ra's al Ghul.

Leader of the League of Shadows. The man who was responsible for the fire. The man who had nearly driven Gotham to madness...

Batman's head ached. He wasn't sure if it was because of his feelings of grief and pain and betrayal, or because of his concussion.

Sirens wailed, and he knew he should be down there, helping, but he was frozen where he was, staring at the wreckage of his building. Of the near disaster averted. Of the life lost.

He didn't know how to think of Henri... Ra's... now. He had been his friend. He had understood him in a way on one else had. And he had helped forge Bruce into the man he was today. But he had betrayed Henri and been betrayed in return. Almost everything had been torn from him, as he had torn everything away from Ra's.

Batman sighed. There was work to be done, and he couldn't stand here, frozen forever. He waited for a gust of wind, then fell, feeling his cape snap out behind him.

*****

Almost a year later Bruce attended Harvey Dent's funeral. Rachel Dawes funeral was held the day before, smaller than Harvey's.

Bruce had hardly been able to bring himself to attend, the taste of failure in his mouth like ashes. Now James Gordon, in his first major public role as Commissioner, was talking about heroes and knights.

Bruce looked away. There are no knights left in Gotham.

His gaze fell on a man, a reporter, who looked about the most awkward person Bruce had ever seen. He shakes his head and looks away. All his life was loss and betrayal. His parents. Henri and Ra's. Rachel. Harvey.

He wonders when it will stop, but he knows it never will. Sacrifice and betrayal. The only two constants in his life. He has no room for friends, only traitors.

They're better off without him anyway.

Bruce stood up. There is work to be done.

He can feel the reporter's gaze on him. He leaves anyway. Better not to make friends.

No matter who they might be, under ill fitting suits and heavy glasses.

Drabble: Secret Files

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 18:32:46 GMT

Title: Secret Files
Rating: PG
Pairing: Bruce/Clark
Word Count: 299
Disclaimer: I own nothing
Author's Note: For fictionalknight who asked for Batman and a computer malfunction... since I don't know know much about computers or indeed computer malfunctions except to pray they never happen please ignore anything wrong in this fic. ;) Unbetaed, so point and I shall correct!

Bruce stared at the computer screen in horror, hardly able to comprehend what he was seeing. It wasn't supposed to have done that! Those files were never meant to have been sent to anyone - never even supposed to be seen by anyone except him.

The files that contained the secrets he only let himself think about when the world seemed such a long way away, and his hope was almost lost. The ones that contained thoughts and feelings on the person he focused his attention on at those times, the one who hope seemed to flow from... Clark.

And now his stupid stupid computer had sent them all to Clark.

Bruce groaned, closing his eyes, covering his face with his hands. Clark would never forgive him for this, never look at him the same way again, never fully trust him again. Not after he read those files and saw how Bruce truly felt about him. After he saw that sometimes, thinking about Clark and all that he represented was the only way he was able to pick himself up and carry on.

For Clark to know just how much Bruce needed him...

He groaned again, feeling his heart rate and breathing picking up, like he was fighting a foe. But there was nothing for him to fight, nothing he could do. At best, he could hope that Clark would ignore the e-mail, or stop reading it when he realized that he files were most certainly never meant to be read.

Bruce took a deep breath, steadying himself, hands falling away from his face. Nothing would change. Clark would ignore, or pretend to ignore, the files... And Bruce would carry on as normal. Yes. Nothing had changed. Nothing.

Nodding to himself, Batman got into the Batmobile.

Fic: The Cacophony of Bats Wings (4/13)

Sun, 30 Aug 2009 18:41:59 GMT

Title: The Cacophony of Bats Wings (4/13)
Rating: PGish
Characters/Pairing: Bruce/Kal, Jim, Harvey, Tim
Word Count: 1530
Disclaimer: I own nothing
Author's Note: Previous parts can be found here. Betaed by the wonderful mithen!

Bruce watched the soldiers sparring with each other. They had improved greatly since they had been retrained. The Captain, James Gordon, came over to Bruce's side.

"They have improved a great deal, my Lord," he said, echoing Bruce's thoughts.

Bruce nodded. "They have."

"The Princess and Princes have been most helpful."

Bruce glanced at him, then inclined his head. "As have you."

The Captain looked away. They watched the soldiers in silence, Bruce making mental notes of the best fighters, which ones still needed to improve. Jason circled around them, yelling commands, glaring when one of the men made a mistake. Cass was more quiet, appearing silently behind the soldiers, telling them what they were doing wrong, taking special care of the younger ones, the ones who were not so confident, while Jason took the more arrogant ones down, either with his words or quickly beating them in a fight.

Bruce nodded to himself, satisfied. He saw Tim watching from the shadows, Ace by his side, and reminded himself to confer with him later, to get his input.

"My Lord," Gordon began, and Bruce quickly turned his attention back to the other man. "I've heard that you might send some men to the borders." The Captain was looking at him evenly, and Bruce suppressed a smile. He could see why his Father had approved of this man.

"They are rumours only, based on rumoured information itself. Only when I have more certain evidence will I decide what to do."

"My Lord." The Captain bowed; the training session was over. Tim had disappeared, and Ace walked over to his side, tail wagging very slightly. Bruce nodded at Gordon, at the soldiers, at his brother and sister, and began to walk back to the castle, where more work was waiting for him.

He touched his ring, and wandered what Kal was doing. Ace padded along at his side. Alfred appeared in the doorway, waiting just inside. Bruce paused once he had stepped inside the narrow entrance, and looked at Alfred expectantly.

"You have another message from Metropolis, sir."

Bruce blinked in surprise - he had only sent his letter to Kal three days ago, there was no way his lover could have received it and replied so soon. He took the thick message from Alfred, aware of eyes watching him. "Thank you, Alfred." He moved further inside, then went up to his and Kal's room.

He fell onto the bed, after he had closed and latched the door, Ace leaping up beside him, then very carefully opened Kal's letter.

Bruce,

I know it has only been a few days since I last wrote to you, and you will receive this letter maybe even before you send a reply to my first letter, but I could not keep myself from writing to you again. I keep finding things I want to tell you, share with you. I miss you so much.

There will be letters from my Mother and Father with this letter also; my Mother was annoyed I had already sent my last letter to you without letting her know. She is still organizing our wedding, love, and has pages of information and questions she wishes you to answer. I am somewhat reluctant to answer on your behalf, but since she has only included Metropolis customs so far, I told her that we should include costumes from Gotham, also. I have the impression that... well, we might need to have two ceremonies. One in Spring, in Gotham, and maybe another in Metropolis in Summer? No doubt the details can be worked out. I would be happy, and I know you would be also, with a ceremony with only our families as our witnesses, but just so long as I marry you, I couldn't care less about what flowers are used.

I am sorry that sounds so negative, Bruce, but Mother has been speaking of nothing else, and I find myself greatly weary of it all. I miss you, and I have not been sleeping well without you with me...

Which brings me to my next piece of news. I have a puppy! He is pure white and very energetic - I wonder if Ace would like him or not! I found him when I went for a ride, near your cave, my Blaidd, and I could not leave him there alone through Winter. My parents are not pleased about him, but he makes me smile and my days less weary. I have named him Krypto, for his color. I shall bring him with me when I return in Spring, and then we may see what he thinks of Ace.

I must go now, love, as Martha has just told me Krypto is chewing her sewing.

We will be together soon, love, and I think of you every moment.

I love you.

Kal.

Bruce found himself smiling as he came to the end of the letter. He was pleased Kal had been cheered by his puppy.

Ace suddenly moved, pressing his head against his hands and Bruce laughed. Ace looked up at him. He captured the dog's head with one of his hands and shook it slightly. "Well, Kal's got a puppy of his own now. His name is Krypto and we shall meet him in the Spring."

Ace woofed at him, and Bruce let go of his head, stroking his soft ears as the dog laid his head on his chest. In a minute, he would get up and return to his work. In a minute. He closed his eyes and was asleep before he knew it.

*****

The knocking woke him up. At first, he thought it was just part of his dream, or that he was not asleep in the first place. Ace was barking, and Bruce reluctantly opened his eyes.

"Bruce? Bruce, are you all right?" Harvey's voice. Bruce blinked and sat up, gesturing for Ace to quieten with his hand. He got up from the bed and walked over to the door, rubbing his eyes and suppressing a yawn. He must be more tired than he thought, falling asleep in the middle of the day... He just had not been sleeping well since Kal had left.

Kal. Bruce quickly reversed course, picked up Kal's letter from the bed, then carefully folded it and tucked it into his shirt, over his heart. He would read it again, later, before writing his reply tonight.

"Bruce?"

Bruce moved back to the door, Ace at his side, and opened it.

"Bruce! Are you all right?" Relief was on Harvey's face, though worry lurked in his eyes.

"Yes, I am fine. I am sorry for making you wait." He stepped outside his and Kal's room and shut the door behind him, before turning to the staircase and seeing Tim. Bruce raised an eyebrow at him, wondering why he was there, but Tim just nodded. Maybe he had heard Harvey's yells and Ace's barks and wanted to be sure everything was all right.

"Bruce. My Lord. May I speak with you, please?"

Bruce glanced back at Harvey. "Of course. After lunch?" He suggested, then hid a wince. He did not know how long he had been asleep, lunch could have been hours ago...

"Lunch was over an hour ago, Bruce."

He could feel two sets of eyes on him, Harvey's bright with concern, Tim still lurking in the shadows. "I am afraid I missed it. If you would excuse me, Harvey?" He was hungry and had a feeling Tim wanted to tell him something.

"Of course." Harvey seemed to deflate, but Bruce was already walking down the stairs, just behind Tim, Ace following them.

He did not see the look on Harvey's face.

*****

Bruce went to his study and found Alfred there, waiting with a plate full of food. Ace's meal was already on the floor for him. He sat down, and Alfred placed the plate before him. He moved some papers aside, nothing that there were two other letters there, one from Jor-El and a very thick one from Lara. He would look at them later. Right now, Tim was waiting.

Alfred quietly left, and Tim slowly sat in the chair before his desk. "Are you all right?"

Bruce nodded, taking his first bite of food. "I just fell asleep."

Some of the caution left his brother's eyes then, but... something was wrong. Bruce raised an eyebrow at him, waiting. "It's Harvey. At the council. You missed it."

The words were not accusing, yet Bruce felt guilt starting to eat at his heart anyway. He should have been there, he should not have missed it, not because he was sleeping... There was so much for him to do, he could not afford to fall asleep in the middle of the day.

"He got angry," Tim continued and Bruce stopped eating, remembering the look on Harvey's face, seeing the guilt and shame he hadn't recognised before.

"He yelled, but..." Tim looked directly at him. "He hit Barbara."

Drabble: Home

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 18:22:12 GMT

Title: Home
Rating: PG
Characters: Dick, Bruce
Word Count: 146
Disclaimer: I own nothing
Author's Note: For bradygirl_12 who asked for Bruce and wee!Dick: home. Unbetaed, so point and I shall correct! :D

Dick looked around in wonder. The house... no, it wasn't a house. It was a castle! It was scary looking, so huge and empty and lonely. Not like the circus. There everything had been bright and joyful, colorful and home.

Mr. Wayne - Bruce - came over to him, placing a hand on his shoulder. "I know it's very different to the circus, Dick, and... Not really a home anymore, but I do hope, in time, that you will see it as such."

The hand on his shoulder squeezed, and the sun broke through the clouds, bathing the house and gardens in light and Dick gasped at seeing it transformed so completely.

He looked up at the man next to him, saw the anxiety in his eyes and smiled. "I think I will, Bruce."

Together, they entered Wayne Manor, their home, for the first time.