bradygirl_12 (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
bradygirl_12) wrote2011-11-18 02:06 pm
bradygirl_12) wrote2011-11-18 02:06 pm
Entry tags:
- alfred pennyworth,
- barbara gordon,
- batgirl,
- big bang,
- challenge,
- clark kent/bruce wayne,
- diana prince,
- dick grayson,
- green arrow/black canary,
- j'onn j'onzz,
- jim gordon,
- jonathan kent/martha kent,
- linda danvers,
- lucius fox,
- martian manhunter,
- ollie queen/dinah lance,
- perry white,
- robin,
- superbat,
- supergirl,
- superman/batman,
- waves upon the shore,
- wonder woman
Fic: Waves Upon The Shore (11-16/24) (2011 SUPERBAT_BB BIG BANG CHALLENGE!!!) ;)
Title: Waves Upon The Shore (11-16/24)
Author: BradyGirl_12
Major Pairings/Characters: Ray Henderson, Clark/Bruce, Dick, Alfred, Lucius Fox, Perry White, J’onn J’onzz, Diana Prince, Jonathan/Martha, Ollie/Dinah, Jim Gordon, Barbara Gordon, Reverend Aloysius Abernathy, Linda Danvers, Lana Lang
Genres: Angst, Challenge, Drama, Hurt/Comfort, Mystery
Rating: NC-17 overall
Warnings: (Ch. 6: Violence; Ch. 23: Description of disfigurement)
Spoilers: None
Beta: The wonderful
![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-userinfo.gif){kind=small}
me_ya_ri. All mistakes are mine.Art by: The talented
min_taiwan. Art can be found here.Summary: When Bruce is permanently blinded, he and Clark must adjust to their new lives.
Dates Of Completion: July 25-September 11, 2011
Date Of Posting: November 18, 2011
Disclaimer: I don’t own ‘em, DC does, more’s the pity.
Word Count: 23,139
Feedback welcome and appreciated.
Author's Notes: Written for the 2011 SuperBat Big Bang.
The basics of this idea was taken by a Bronze Age Imaginary Story (substituting Bruce for Lois): Bruce’s blindness and Clark’s accident. Everything else is my own, especially the ending, as I never did get the chance to read the second part of this tale. Someday I hope to find that issue! :)
This is NOT a deathfic, BTW, even it if appears to be.
All chapters can be found here.
NEW DAY DAWNING
The heart disguises
No longer,
As pink and gold
Streak so bold
Across a cobalt sky.
Janice Randstrom
"Sunrise"
1966 C.E.
Clark awoke feeling good in ways that he had not for weeks. He smiled down at his companion, brushing a lock of hair from his eyes. The lines of stress around Bruce’s mouth and eyes had lessened considerably. He smirked.
Sex is always good for what ails ya, huh?
The sun was coming up over the horizon, a red fireball signaling another hot summer day. The ocean sparkled as fluffy, white clouds drifted across the azure sky.
Bruce stirred awake, long lashes fluttering.
“Good morning,” Clark said.
“Mmm.” Bruce yawned. “What time is it?”
“Sunrise.”
Bruce groaned and shoved his pillow over his head.
“Come on, Bruce, let’s go down to the beach.”
“At this hour?”
“Yes, at this hour.”
“Clark, go back to sleep.”
Clark grinned and whipped the sheets off, exposing Bruce’s gorgeous body. “Rise and shine! Really, Bruce, it’s a whole different world in the morning.”
“Early morning.”
“C’mon, Bruce.”
“Claaark…”
Clark bounced out of bed. “I’ll be in the shower.”
“Damnit!”
Clark grinned and went into the bathroom, enjoying a quick shower, getting dressed in shorts and T-shirt. He walked back into the bedroom and saw Bruce burrowed under the sheet, which he had pulled back up. Shaking his head, Clark headed for the door.
“Wait.” Clark paused. “Oh, all right.”
Clark’s smile rivaled the sun.
Down by the water’s edge, Clark and Bruce stood hand-in-hand. The seagulls were carrying on raucously, the sea crashing against the nearby rocks. “The world is waking up,” Bruce said.
“That’s right.” Clark tilted his face up toward the sun, its rays tingling along his body.
“I’ve seen the sun come up plenty of times.” Clark’s chest tightened at the sound of loss in his lover’s voice. “Usually after a long night in Gotham.”
“I know.” Clark’s hand slid back-and-forth over Bruce’s arm. “I shared some of those mornings with you. You’d be sitting on a gargoyle, glaring at me while I…”
“...floated in front of me with the sun backlit, framing you like some god come down from Olympus.”
“No god, just a man,” Clark said softly.
“A special man,” Bruce answered, his eyes staring sightlessly toward the horizon. “I miss flying.”
Clark’s smile quirked. “I thought that was Dick’s thing.”
“Oh, it is. If he was ever granted the choice of one superpower, it would be flight, but I admit that it became more than going from Point A to Point B for me.” The breeze ruffled through Bruce’s hair. “It surprised me. I’d been so focused for years, and then Dick came along, teaching me to take joy in life as I was teaching him what he needed to survive as Robin.” He turned toward Clark and smiled. “Then there was you.”
“Me?”
“Yes.” Bruce’s eyes were vacant, an eerie sight that made Clark a little uncomfortable, but this was Bruce. And the rest of his face was telling him all he needed to know with his affection. “You were so enthusiastic about everything, but shared Dick’s love of flying. You attracted me with all that sunshine, even though I tried to stay in the shadows, because it was safer there. I was too exposed in the sunlight.”
Clark swallowed. Bruce had been opening up more to him before the accident, though he had closed himself off again while reeling from his new condition. Now that he had accepted his blindness, Clark had hoped that their old closeness would come back. It appeared that his prayers had been answered. Strong arms went around Bruce and Clark whispered in his ear, “Hang on.”
Bruce let out a yelp as he was lifted into the sky. “Clark, what…?”
“We’re flying, Bruce.”
“But someone will see.”
“Don’t worry, I’ll take care of it.”
Clark flew them through the clouds, unseen by anyone. Bruce held on tight, a little nervous, but a smile spread across his face, his voice awed.”I can feel the clouds on my skin.”
Clark’s smile rivaled the sun. He moved them in a loop-de-lop, the cool moisture shining like jewels in Bruce’s raven hair.Clark laughed happily, Bruce joining in as they flew through the clouds tinged with gold-and pink and orange as the sun rose over the horizon, the most beautiful sight in the world.
They laughed and spun, flew and soared. Clark felt higher than the sky, brighter than the sun, and Bruce laughed, which was the best thing of all. The streaks of light across the sky glittered as if the sun itself was vibrating with joy.
Clark gently brought Bruce down to the beach. “Wait here,” he said, and flew off at super-speed, returning seconds later.“Bruce, we never did have that Friday night dinner. I wanted to ask you a question.” He took a deep breath. “Bruce, will you marry me?” He pressed a small box in Bruce’s hand.
Clark watched as surprise lit up his lover’s face, then a smile spread slowly across as he opened the box and touched the ring inside.“Yes, Clark, I’ll marry you!”
Thrilled, Clark drew Bruce into a hug, then they kissed, Clark’s eyes sparkling as he put the ring on Bruce’s hand.
Dick was sitting at the kitchen table while Alfred whipped up a batch of waffles. He plucked a strawberry from the bowl in the center of the table, enjoying its sweet goodness when the back door opened, a smiling Clark and Bruce coming in.”
Hey, Alfred, look at the early birds. Bruce, what got you out of bed at this hour? You…” He studied the two men’s faces, and a huge smile spread across his face. “You asked him!”
Clark laughed as Bruce harrumphed. Alfred was his usual unflappable self, but his eyes showed his joy.
Happiness filled Wayne Manor as the sun rose over the sea.
THE WEDDING OF THE CENTURY
Amethyst Green
Entertainment Columnist
The Gotham Gazette
September 1, 2011
When the news hit, Gotham High Society was all abuzz. Some sniffed at Bruce’s choice, aghast that the Prince of Gotham had chosen a mere country boy, but they were careful not to do so in Bruce’s presence.
The wedding was going to be the Event of the season, and no one wanted to be left off the guest list. TMZ, Entertainment Tonight, and Extra were giving the preparations full coverage, calling it the Wedding of the Century. Late September was the date for the wedding, so preparations were in high gear.
Everyone thanked the Powers Above for Alfred. While Clark and Bruce dithered over details, he began to smooth things over. Martha and Jonathan Kent helped, too, thrilled that their son was getting married to a man he loved. They would fly in the week before the wedding to assist with last-minute things, but the ideas flew thick-and-fast between Smallville and Gotham.
Dick was an invaluable help to Alfred. He loved the idea of a big wedding.
“Pity you or Clark can’t go down the aisle in a glittery bridal gown,” Dick said saucily.
“You would like glittery, wouldn’t you?” Bruce snarked as Clark and Dick laughed.
“Hey, it’s all in the details. A wedding like this is a show, starring you and Clark. It’s all theatrics.”
“I don’t like theatrics,” Bruce frowned.
“Sure you do. You’ve always used theatrics when necessary.”
“That’s right, Bruce,” Clark agreed. “You’re always used that tactic.”
Bruce still shook his head. “But our wedding should be small and intimate, not a damned circus!”
Dick smiled. Leave it to Bruce to be stubborn! But if anyone could persuade him, it would be Clark.
Clark took Bruce’s hand and entwined their fingers. “I’m marrying the Prince. I expect some fuss ‘n’ feathers.” He nuzzled his fiance’s ear. “Everything must be done right.”
Bruce softened as Dick knew he would. He winked at Alfred, who seemed highly pleased.
“Besides, what’s wrong with a circus?” Dick asked as Bruce groaned.
So the whirlwind preparations continued, the church booked and the caterers engaged for the reception, which would be held at the Manor on the grounds. In case of rain, the ballroom would be used.
Dick was Clark and Bruce’s choice for best man and Barbara was maid of honor. Ushers were Ollie, Hal, Barry, Carter, Steve, Jimmy, and Pete, and the bridesmaids were Dinah, Carol, Iris, Shayera, Diana, Lois, and Lana. Alfred was the ‘father’ of one groom, the Kents parents of the other groom. Many other heroes were invited and would be mixing with Gotham High Society. Dick cracked that it should be ‘quite a show’.
The big day finally arrived, and Bruce was nervously trying to tie his tie. His shaking fingers kept messing it up. Alfred calmly brushed aside Bruce’s hands and tied it perfectly.
“Master Dick will be in presently. Try and relax, Master Bruce.”
Bruce sighed. “Easy for you to say, Alfred.”
The butler smiled. “You will do just fine, sir.”
“I hope so.” Bruce tugged on his white jacket. “Why did I let Clark talk me into this white outfit? Black would have been much better.”
“You are most fortunate that Master Dick did not persuade your fiancé to go with the glittery white, sir.”
Bruce laughed. “I suppose that I should consider myself lucky.”
The bedroom door opened and Dick’s voice cheerfully said, “So, how is the groom?”
“Nervous,” Alfred said dryly.
Dick laughed, the sound calming Bruce down. “Your expertise is needed with the caterers, Alfred.” Dick was at Bruce’s side in seconds. Bruce could smell the light scent of his cologne.
“Very good.” Alfred rested a hand on his charge’s shoulder. “You will be fine, Bruce.”
Bruce swallowed and put his hand over Alfred’s.
“Thank you, Alfred.”
After Bruce gave the older man’s hand a squeeze, Alfred removed it and left the room.
“So, those butterflies going a little crazy in your stomach?” Dick asked.
“Pretty much.”
Dick smoothed out his jacket’s shoulders. “Like Alfred said, you’ll do fine.” His voice was light.
“Am I doing the right thing?”
He could hear the hesitance in Dick’s voice. “Are you having second thoughts?”
“Not exactly.”
His hands rested on Bruce’s shoulders. “How not exactly?”
“Am I right to tie Clark to me with my blindness?”
Dick let out his breath. “Bruce, Clark loves you. Stop worrying about that.”
“But it’s a big part of me now.”
“And he loves that part of you, too.”
Bruce sighed. “I know. I just…”
“You’re afraid.” When Bruce did not answer, Dick added gently, “It’s okay, Bruce.”
Bruce reached out for Dick’s hand and squeezed. “Thanks, Dick.”
Dick drew him into a hug and he smiled.
Dick entered the guest room, dressed in his dark-blue outfit. Clark had insisted upon the old tradition of sleeping apart the night before the wedding. He was going to be driven to the church by Dinah and Ollie to continue the tradition of not seeing Bruce until the wedding.
Clark was nervously fussing with his tie, pushing his glasses up his nose. “Your parents ready for the ride to the church?” Dick asked.
“Yeah.” Clark ran a hand through his hair and reached for the comb on the dresser.“Let me do your tie for you.” Dick deftly arranged the tie. Like Bruce, Clark was wearing white shirt, jacket, and black pants, the ties white silk.
“Dick?”“Yes?”
“How’s Bruce?”
Dick knew exactly what Clark was asking about. “He was worried about tying you down but you know Bruce. I think I convinced him it was not a factor. Jitters, most likely.”
Clark looked concerned, then relieved as Dick talked. Stifling a smile, Dick asked, “You need anything?”
“No, thanks.” Clark combed his hair. “This is really happening, huh?”
“It really is. Ready to be the spouse of the Prince?”
Clark grinned. “I think I’ll survive.”
“Good.”
A knock on the door caught their attention, and Clark said, “Come in.” Jonathan Kent smiled as he entered, looking sharp in a dark-blue suit and red tie, gold cufflinks winking in the sunlight. “Need help, son?”
“Thanks, Dad.”
“I’d better go,” said Dick. “Alfred said we were leaving precisely at nine o’clock, so I better get down there.”
“Alfred’s in his element, isn’t he?” Jonathan asked with a twinkle in his eyes.
Dick laughed. “That he is!” He headed for the doorway, looking back to see Jonathan put the carnation in Clark’s buttonhole, a nice father-son moment.
Dick felt a pang, thinking of his own father, but resolutely shook off the melancholy. Today was a day for happiness, something his mother and father both approved of.
He quietly left the room.
The ride to the church was quiet, but Clark was able to joke with his parents. Ollie was driving, and Dinah kept the conversation light and merry. She looked lovely in her pale yellow bridesmaid dress, tiny accents of blue, red, and black accentuating her figure.
It was a good stratagem, Clark thought. He was still nervous, but not quite as bad as he could be.
He was not nervous about marrying Bruce. It was the best decision he had ever made.
No, what worried him was messing up during the ceremony. He knew what Gotham Society thought of him: a country bumpkin unworthy of their Prince.
“Don’t look so worried, honey,” Martha said. She was dressed in a pale blue dress with red and yellow accents, a thin strand of gold with a sapphire teardrop her necklace, matching earrings dangling as she adjusted her hat.
“I’m not exactly High Society material, Ma.”
“Oh, nonsense,” said Jonathan. “You’re as good as those Society folks. Just because you grew up on a farm doesn’t mean you’re not good enough.”
Clark smiled. “Leave it to you, Pa, to buck me up.”
“Darned right.” Jonathan sat back with a satisfied smile in his face.The ride was less nerve-wracking for Clark after that, eagerness supplanting nervousness…at least most of it. The church’s tall spires jutted up to the sky, gargoyles perched on the buttresses. It was typical Gotham architecture, and Clark loved it.
His parents hustled him around the back of the church, Dinah going to the vestibule to join the bridesmaids.
“I’ll escort you to your seat, Mrs. Kent,” Ollie offered.
“Thank you, Ollie.”
Martha and her escort went back outside to enjoy the fresh air as they walked to the church entrance.
“Don’t worry,” Jonathan said as he checked Clark’s tie one final time. “Your groom will be here.”
“I know, Pa.” Clark smiled. He drew his father into an embrace. “You’d better get out there and join Ma.”
“Okay, son.” Jonathan pushed up his glasses and winked.
After his father had left, Clark sneaked a peek out to the nave of the church with his X-ray vision. It looked like everyone was there, from the friends and family of him and Bruce, to Gotham’s High Society. Good enough for them to mix with us ‘lower classes’.
There were yellow roses and sunflowers everywhere, and the special pews were decorated with yellow ribbons. Sunlight streamed in through the stained-glass windows, casting rainbow prisms of light around the church.
He saw his parents sitting in the front pew, Alfred in the pew opposite them. Jim Gordon and Lucius Fox were sitting with him.
The door to the anteroom opened and Dick grinned. “We’re here. Come on.” He bounced on the balls of his feet as Clark smiled.
They went to the front of the church, and in the vestibule was his first sight of Bruce. He immediately took Bruce’s hand and kissed his fingers. The wedding party looked on with smiles.
“Ready, Prince?” asked Clark.
“As I’ll ever be, Scribe,” answered Bruce as Clark laughed.
The Kents and Alfred slipped into the vestibule, and were ready to escort their sons down the aisle. Clark and Bruce shifted over to the side of the vestibule and the doors were opened, heads turning in anticipation as the organist began to play.
The bridesmaids and ushers paired off and began walking down the aisle, and then Dick and Barbara walked next, smiling radiantly.
Then the Kents and Alfred escorted Clark and Bruce down the aisle, all eyes on the comely Prince and his fiancé. Clark kept his eyes forward until he reached the pews where he recognized people, smiling at them as they proceeded down the aisle, hand on his arm as his heart soared.
They reached the altar and Jonathan, Martha, and Alfred moved off to their respective pews, the maid of honor and best man in their places.
Bruce knew how many steps he had to take. He had made sure to count it out during rehearsal. The Reverend Abernathy said, “Let us begin.”
The ceremony was structured, with call-and-response, and they spoke the traditional vows until the end, when they turned toward each other and spoke their own vows.
“Bruce, you are the other half of me, making me feel complete. We come from two different worlds (he pointedly ignored the whisper of “You got that right” way in the back) but we fit together, you and I, like night and day.” He could hear the chuckles of friends and family and his smile grew brighter. Bruce looked almost ethereal in his beauty, highlights of the rainbow prisms sparkling in his raven hair. His face was alight with excitement and love.“I vow to make you happy every day for the rest of our lives together.”
Bruce smiled and then took his cue from Clark to start his own vows.“You are the brightness in my darkness, Clark.” Clark’s throat closed up. “You came into my life, persistent yet patient, and won me over. You are precious to me, and I will do my every best to be worthy of your love.”
The ceremony continued, Clark growing calmer. The hard part was over, though he might feel a little nervous during the reception line. At the moment, through, he was drinking in the sight of his beautiful groom, excited at the prospect of their lives together. When it came time to kiss the groom, he was more than ready as the guests cheered and applauded, continuing as they walked down the aisle.
Married.
FROM HERE TO ETERNITY
A new day dawns.
A.E. Sands
"Sunrise, Sunset"
1926 C.E.
Hawaii was beautiful at any time of year. Clark happily described the lush foliage and magnificent mountains and waterfalls.
Bruce liked the sound of the sea surrounding them as they enjoyed their private bungalow high up in the mountains. Clark was pleased with the dark teakwood and mahogany, the modernist furniture so different from what he was used to.
He had only visited Hawaii a few times, always as Superman. This time he had the view from the ground up, and he loved everything he saw.“It’s all so beautiful, Bruce.”
Bruce smiled indulgently. He had spent time in Hawaii as Bruce Wayne, usually on Wayne Enterprises business, but a perfect venue for his playboy façade.
The days were lazy and indulgent. They woke at sunrise, enjoying the magnificent show of Sol rising over the water, streaking the sky with incredible hues of pink, orange, and yellow. Clark got his morning dose, but was happy to curl back up around Bruce and go back to sleep after the sun was higher in the sky.
Breakfast was leisurely, a combination of eggs, sausages, and slices of pineapple, mangoes, and oranges. Every piece of fruit was fresh and juicy, perfect complements to the rest of the meal.
They hiked for a few hours, then went down to the beach, enjoying an afternoon swim in the deserted cove. Back on the beach they made love on a blanket, and then went back into the surf, letting the waves wash over them as they kissed on the water’s edge, stretched out on the sand.
Bruce chuckled, “Are we staging From Here To Eternity?”
Clark laughed as his eyes sparkled. “Maybe.”
“Sweet as pineapple,” Bruce drawled.
Clark laughed again and loved him.
One night they sat on the deck of their bungalow, Clark watching the moonlight shimmer on the water and Bruce listening to the sound of the sea washing up on shore. Tall, cold glasses of iced tea were on the small teakwood table between them.
“I miss him.”
Clark looked at his husband.
“Miss who?”
“The Batman.”
Sadness flitted across Clark’s face. “I know. I do, too.”
They sat in silence for several more minutes, then Bruce said, “I miss patrol. I miss making a difference, even if it’s only a slight one, which is all Gotham gets sometimes.”
Clark watched as a graceful bird with shimmering green feathers flew high above the lawn. It was so peaceful here, but he wanted to hear what Bruce had to say. Bruce opening up was not as rare as it used to be, but it was still a precious thing.
“The Mission continues, with or without me. I trained Dick. I know he’s the best there is, and Barbara, too. I know you help. I just feel…”
“It’s all right, Bruce,” Clark said softly.Bruce closed his eyes and rested his head back. They continued to sit in silence.
When the newlyweds returned home, Alfred and Dick celebrated with a special dinner of grilled chicken, snow peas, Spanish rice and apple pie. Happy to be back home, Clark and Bruce told about their honeymoon, Clark showing pictures, and all was well.
Bruce was restless as patrol time approached. Last night he and Clark had gone to bed early, so Dick had gone out as Batman, meeting up with Barbara. Tonight Clark was going with him.
He drifted down to the Batcave, and Clark’s cheerful voice said, “Glad to see you, Bruce. We were just coming to get you.”
“Oh?”
“That’s right,” Dick chimed in.
“What’s up with all this conspiracy? Alfred?”
“Patience, Master Bruce.”
Bruce huffed but Dick and Clark merely laughed. Dick took his hand and placed it on his arm, leading him to the computers.
“Have a seat.”
Bruce complied, hooking his cane over the chair arm. A pang went through him as he thought of the work he used to do at this computer.
“Give a command to the computer,” Clark said.
“What?”
“Just do it.”Bemused, Bruce said, “Open File Penguin.”
“Opening.”
His eyebrow rose at the mechanical-sounding female voice. In fact, it sounded suspiciously like the Fortress’ AI.
“File opened.”
“What is all this?”
He could hear the joy in Clark’s voice. “It’s a re-design of the Bat-computers.”
“Quite calling them that,” Bruce growled.
Clark’s amusement stayed in his voice. “Well, they’re part-Kryptonian now.”
“Yeah, Bruce, the computers work by voice command.” said Dick enthusiastically.
“Oh, so that’s means you’re retiring your typing fingers?”
“Ha, ha. Typing can still be used.”
“You can use the computer now,” Clark said. “Just give it any command and it’ll follow it.”
Bruce said, “Computer, read the latest entry in File Penguin.”
The computer read the date and time of the entry, then said, “The Penguin was captured by Batman and Robin after an attempted robbery of the Gotham Art Museum. Methods included…”
“Enough, Computer.”
The computer fell silent.“That’s great!” Bruce could not keep the enthusiasm out of his voice.
“You can keep in touch with us,” Dick said. “Clark and I will be wearing earpieces that connect us to you. We’ll give one to Barbara, too.”
Bruce felt excited at the possibilities. “I can give you information through the cameras we’ve got situated around the city.”
“That’s right,” Clark said. “We’ll be much more efficient.”
“Let’s try it out tonight.”
“Let’s.”Clark quickly dressed in the Bat-suit and he and Dick roared off in the Batmobile.
“Testing, B,” said Clark over the commlink. Dick also did a check.
Bruce bit out rapid commands to the computer, and was soon tracking the Batmobile. He asked for a roll call of the cameras, but all was quiet.Bruce kept the computer busy but always asked for a regular update on the Dynamic Duo’s whereabouts. He absently drank the mint tea that Alfred placed on the table next to him, and munched on lemon cookies as the computer continued its steady stream of information.
“We’re at Point B, B,” came Robin’s amused voice over the link. They were parking the Batmobile in a spot on the outskirts of the city.
The patrol was quiet, then the Computer said, “Activity detected at Wayne Park.”
“Nature of the activity?” Bruce asked.
“Two men are approaching a teenage girl from behind.”
Bruce quickly relayed the information to Batman and Robin. If necessary, Clark could super-speed them to the park.
“Computer, have Batman and Robin reached the park?”
“They are now in Wayne Park.”
The adrenaline rushed in Bruce’s veins. He wanted to be there, and curled his hand into a fist. The Computer’s mechanical voice continued to impart information.Alfred was close by, silently observing but lending support. Thankful, Bruce kept track of everything in his head.
“Batman and Robin are engaging with the assailants. They are succeeding.”
Bruce could hear the sounds of combat, the thugs cursing, Robin quipping, and the day being saved.
“I think I’m going to like this new computer set-up, Alfred.”
“Quite so.”
The rest of the night was quiet, only a mugging to attend to, but Bruce was ecstatic.
He had found his Mission again.
Clark knew it when he saw him upon his return to the Cave and wrapped him in a typical Super-embrace.
"DELPHI WAS NEVER LIKE THIS"
Knowing everything
Is cooler.
Lorry Brindell
"Poems For The 21st Century"
2009 C.E.
The days went by swiftly, Bruce re-energized by his new role. He wanted to learn all he could about this new system, asking Clark about it and learning things on his own.
As they sat around discussing it one day Dick grinned and said, “You’re like the Oracle of Delphi, Bruce. All-seeing and all-knowing.”
Clark snapped his fingers. “That’s it!”
“That’s what?” Bruce asked.
“Your name should be Oracle!”
Bruce opened his mouth to object, then said, “You’re right.”
Dick laughed delightedly. “Oh, yeah!”
Bruce smiled.
It was a quiet evening, Alfred bringing him tea and cookies while Bruce ran a diagnostic check. The Computer spoke.
“Oracle, activity detected at the corner of Bowery and Bates Streets.”
“What kind of activity?”
“It appears to be smuggling, but I will need more data.”
“Get it.” Bruce sipped his tea. “Batman, Robin, there’s smuggling activity at the corner of Bowery and Bates.”
“Roger, O,” said Batman.
“It appears that you have things well in hand, sir,” said Alfred.
“I hope so. Clark and Dick are depending on me.”
Alfred poured Bruce a hot cup. “Drink your tea, sir. It is damp down here.”
“Thank you, Alfred.”
His old friend would never change.
And I don’t want him to.
“Arrived, O.”
“Roger.”
Bruce could hear the cries of the surprised smugglers and smiled. Batman and Robin had the situation under control.
“Robin!”
Bruce tensed as he heard Clark’s cry on-screen.
“What’s going on, Alfred?”
“Master Dick took a blow to the head.”
Bruce’s tension increased. “Batman, Robin is injured.”
“I know, O.” Clark’s voice was strained. “I’m on it.”
“He is rescuing Master Dick, fending off three men.”
Bruce bit his lip. “Tell me if there are more.”
“Two more. One is coming up behind Master Clark…”
“Batman, behind you!”
“He’s turning, sir. Yes! Quite a good pounding.”
“Batman is attacking the smugglers, with precise efficiency. All are now rendered unconscious,” droned the Computer.
Bruce could tell that Clark was successful by the sound of the blows and the cries of the criminals. He still waited to hear from Clark.
“O?”
“Yes?”
“I’m bringing Robin in.”
Bruce acknowledged him and sat back, tension obvious in every muscle.
“I will get the infirmary ready,” said Alfred.
Bruce listened to the butler’s preparations while staying at the computer.
It seemed as if time stood still, but of course it was only perception. The roar of the Batmobile reverberated throughout the Cave, and Bruce hurried to the infirmary as fast as he could, nearly stumbling but making it without incident.
“Head injury, Alfred,” said Clark.
“Yes, sir.”
While Alfred examined Dick, Clark stood by Bruce, slipping his hand in to grasp his husband’s. They waited quietly, even the bats high overhead silent as if waiting, too.
“A concussion. We must monitor him closely and try to revive him.”
“Yes, it’s worrisome that he’s still out,” said Clark.“Go and shower, Master Clark. We will keep vigil.”
“Yes, sir.”
Bruce smiled faintly. Alfred was the boss around here, no doubt about it.
As Clark hurried off to the showers, Bruce asked quietly, “What do you think?”
“Just as I said: a concussion, but we must see about reviving him.”
“All right.”
Just as Clark returned from the shower, Dick groaned and came back to consciousness.“Ooh, what hit me?”
“A lucky thug,” Clark answered.
”Ugh.”
“Stay still, Master Dick. You need rest,” admonished Alfred.
“I want to be in my own bed.”
“I can do that,” Clark said.Bruce could hear the rustle of silk as Clark gathered Dick into his arms. “Coming, Bruce?”
“You go on ahead. I’ll finish up here.” He smiled. “I always said that Dick had a hard head.”
“Ha, ha,” said Dick.Bruce chuckled as he sat down at the computer while Clark, Dick, and Alfred went upstairs. He began dictating his report for the evening. Clark and Dick would add their on-site reports later.
As Bruce dictated, he resolved to work with Clark on upgrades to the system. He needed faster response time to be effective as Oracle, and he intended to get it.
TIME PASSAGES
Clear and swift,
Never-ending.
Abel Pound
"Time Waits For No Man"
1926 C.E.
Bruce became more proficient at using the AI, and as the leaves began to turn and fall, the routine of the all-seeing Oracle became part of the Bat-operation as if had always been there.
On one cold September night, Batgirl said to Robin, “Oracle really seems to know his stuff.”
“You know how it is. Once Oracle wants to concentrate on something, it’s all-out.” He flashed her a grin as he shot out a grapple line, daring her to keep up. She smiled as she followed the sunshine-yellow cape.
Clark divided his time between Metropolis and Gotham, occasionally flying home to Smallville. Linda lived in Metropolis now, able to cover whenever Clark donned the Batsuit.
The criminals of Gotham still feared the Bat. Both Clark and Dick had adopted enough of Bruce’s mannerisms to fool them, and both enjoyed this play-acting, a far cry from their usual personas.
Halloween came in a blaze of glory, and while Supergirl took care of Metropolis, it fell to Batman, Robin and Batgirl to patrol Gotham on a night when every villain came out of the woodwork, Bruce choreographing their movements like Martha Graham.
“Joker on DeLancey Street.”
“Check, O,” said Batman.
“The Penguin is at the Gotham Museum.”
"Got it, O.,” said Robin.
“The Riddler is at the docks.”
“Right, O.,” replied Batgirl.
It was a long Halloween, but by dawn, Gotham was still standing.
In November, Superman and Batman were called away on a JLA mission off-world, and Bruce found himself restless. He missed Clark next to him in their bed, and Dick’s laughter at breakfast. He prowled the grounds by day and the Batcave by night, and Batgirl patrolled Gotham, helped out by Supergirl when she could get away from Metropolis.
Every day Bruce made his way out to the gazebo, listening to the ocean down below and the whisper of the last leaves as they fell from the trees. He had missed the glorious colors of autumn, but Clark had described them in loving detail.
Now he waited, hopeful that the JLA could defeat the enemy and bring his loved ones home.
“Good job, ladies,” said Bruce as Linda and Barbara entered the Cave, exultant after taking down Bane.
Barbara shut off the Bat-cycle’s motor and said, “Looks like Bane’s no longer our existence.”
“Oh, brother,” said Linda, and Bruce smirked. He could practically hear her eyes roll. “Leave the puns to the Pixie, willya?” Bruce sobered at the mention of Dick, thinking of Clark in the next second.“Any word from them, Bruce?”
“Uh, no, Linda.”
“Well, I’m sure they’re fine. These off-world missions just eat up your time.”
Bruce remembered. “Yes, though the gateways help.”
“The Guardians of Oa did a good thing, placing them around the galaxy.”
“Yes.” Bruce opened a new file. “Here you go, Linda.” He stood as Linda took his seat to type up her report.Barbara took him aside. “If things had gone bad, J’onn would have let us know.”
“I know. Bruce sighed, rubbing between his eyes. “I’m just tired.”
“I know.” Barbara squeezed his arm. “They’ll be back.”
The next day Bruce went out to the gazebo.
I feel like the 19th century sea captains’ wives, walking the widows’ walks, waiting for their men to come home.
Waiting had always been a part of his crimefighting arsenal. A good ninja could wait for hours if necessary. He had just never particularly liked it.
The breeze was cool, only requiring a lightweight jacket. He listened to the sound of the wind whistling through the trees, then heard a slightly different whoosh! of air.
“Hello, Bruce.”
He turned and held out his arms, and Clark was in his embrace, the breeze encircling them both.
November turned to December, and the Manor was decorated with fragrant holly and evergreen, the tree going up in the living room as stories were told, new and old, about the ornaments from four different families, as each member had their own heirlooms to hang on the full branches. There were glittering acrobats and fine china English teacups and hand-carved wooden apples and delicate Victorian ladies of glass.
Presents piled up under the tree, but the best presents were each other, and while Bruce mourned the loss of his sight every day, he knew that he was lucky.
The holiday whirl kept both Clark and Bruce busy, attending charity functions, Clark going both as the Prince of Gotham’s Consort and Superman. Luckily for Dick, Batman was a not a Christmas kind of guy.
But Bruce had never liked the social whirl, preferring patrol, and now, quiet evenings at home. One such evening, he and Clark sat by the hearth in the living room, a fire roaring behind the grate.
“It’s so beautiful,” Clark said.
”What? Oh, the tree.”
“That’s right.” Clark slipped his hand over Bruce’s. “It’s all glittery, gold and silver, with all the ornaments reflecting the firelight, dancing like stars in the sky.”
“Like you dance in the sky.”
He laughed. “Maybe so, maybe so.” He nuzzled Bruce’s ear. “As long as you’re with me.”
Bruce had never felt happier.
After the New Year, everything settled into a comfortable routine. With the JLA’s help, Clark was ever able to snatch stolen moments away from crimefighting with Bruce. Linda, Barbara, and Dick needed relief, too, and were given the time off.
By February, Clark and Bruce enjoyed a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner, tucked away in a Vermont inn that was very discreet. Paparazzi was nowhere to be found, which suited the newlyweds just fine. As they enjoyed the candlelit dinner of steak, julienned potatoes, wild rice, artichokes and California wine, Bruce asked, “Are you happy, Clark?”
“Very. You?”
“Frighteningly so,” Bruce drawled.Clark laughed and took his hand, kissing the knuckles.
And after dinner, they made sweet, passionate love, sure to remember this night for the rest of their lives.
JUST A TYPICAL DAY
Starts out
Ordinary.
It’s the way
That it ends
That we
Remember.
Alexis Davis
"Life’s Strangeness
And Other Poems"
2001 C.E.
The day dawned gray and rainy, typical for February in Gotham. Clark had snatched some sleep after an eventful night in Metropolis battling Toyman’s giant creations. He kissed Bruce and flew off to The Daily Planet to put in a full day’s work while Bruce attended a Wayne Enterprises board meeting and Dick went to class at Gotham University.
Bruce decided that the word ‘board’ should be spelled ‘bored’. The meeting was not one of the Board’s finest hours as members droned on, as if affected by the gray day outside.
He perked up as an argument stated. Lucius let it run for awhile, apparently as bored as he was. Finally he stepped in, and Bruce’s mind began to wander. He would have to call Clark after this meeting.
It seemed to endlessly drag on, but maybe his time sense was off. He checked the face of his wristwatch, his fingers brushing over the clock hands. No, he had been right the first time. Time was dragging, and so was this meeting!
Finally the marathon was over, and Bruce eagerly returned to his office. He used the landline and dialed a familiar number.
“Clark Kent, Daily Planet.“
Hello, Clark Kent.”
Delight registered in Clark’s voice. “Hello, Bruce Wayne.”
“Busy, are you?”
“Never too busy for the boss.”
“I take it you mean the boss at work only.”
“That’s right.”
Bruce smirked. He could imagine Clark at his desk, the surroundings cluttered but somehow organized. Lois would be chasing down a lead at the next desk, needling Clark one minute and defending him the next. Perry would be screaming for his story, Jimmy would be trying to avoid his ire, and all was well in Daily Planet Land.
“How about you? How’d the Board meeting go?”
“’Bored’ is right.”
Clark chuckled. “One of those, eh?”
“Yes, though there was a rhubarb. Unfortunately, Lucius broke it up.”
Clark laughed again. “Oh, dear! Well, tell Lucius to let them go at it next time.”
“I will.” Bruce ran his fingers over his calendar, reading the Braille set for him. “How about lunch?”
“I could do that.”
“Great. Meet me at my office?”
“Sure. Oh, I may be a little late.”
“What’s up?”
“A cargo ship is on fire in Metropolis Harbor.”
“Okay, go.” Bruce smiled.
“I love you.”
“I love you, too. See you later. And don’t forget! We have a dinner date this Friday.”
“I won’t.”
Clark hung up and so did Bruce. He turned on the TV located in an oak cabinet, clicking until he found coverage of the fire. He conducted business while listening to the TV.“There’s Superman!” said Lana Lang, reporter for WGBH News. “He’s flying onto the ship, which is registered under the Brazilian flag. Their cargo is listed as teakwood furniture and other exports like coffee. No one knows how the fire started, but with Superman on the job, it should be out soon.”
“Bruce, can I speak to you?”
“Sure, Lucius.”
While Bruce was conferring with Lucius, Dick was hanging out at the Reference Desk in Gotham University’s library. Barbara was pretending to ignore him as she worked.
“Don’t you have studying to do?"
"I am studying. I’m studying you.”
Barbara rolled her eyes. “Oh, brother.”
Dick chuckled. He dropped his chin on his upturned palm as he rested his elbow on the desk. “C’mon, you know you like it.”
“Better be careful, displaying that ass of yours for all to see.”
Dick wiggled slightly as Barbara stifled her laughter. Their conversation was low-voiced, in keeping with the setting.
“Do you need me to patrol tonight?” Barbara asked.
“I wouldn’t want to keep you from flying for anything.” He waggled his eyebrows.
This time Barbara did laugh.
“Hey, there’s a fire in Metropolis Harbor,” Dick said.Barbara looked at her computer screen. She had it set to wgbh.com. “Hmm, looks like a Brazilian freighter. Wonder what their cargo is.” She clicked a link. “Says teakwood furniture and coffee. Bet those beans are being roasted.”
”Ha, ha. Ah, there’s Superman.”
The red-and-blue streak headed for the freighter.
“Are you sure about this, Lucius?”
“Oh, yes. This merger will be highly beneficial.”
The sound of an explosion startled both men.
“What was that?” Bruce demanded.
“An explosion on the freighter Sea Breeze!” said Lana. “What a spectacular show!”
“Well, an explosion won’t hurt Superman,” said Bruce.
“True.”
”Do you see him?”
“No. He’s probably still inside fighting the fire.”
They continued with their meeting, but Bruce was only half-listening, straining to hear if Superman was seen.
Finally Lucius said, “Okay, that’s good, I’ll…”
“What is it, Lucius?”
“There’s a green glow around the ship.”
“The Coast Guard and Metropolis Fire Department boats are backing off as a green glow is beginning to spew out of the Sea Breeze.”
Bruce’s stomach knotted as he felt light-headed, dread in his heart.
no subject
no subject
I figured he would. He would love the role if he couldn't be Batman. :)
This section had some great story development, particularly in the way everyone is working together to get the job done and build a new life.
Thank you, T.! I pondered on just how they would work around the problem of what they thought was permanent disability for Bruce. It was fun meshing the personalities with the requirements! :)
Loved the tension of the last part with the ship. Bravo!
Ha, you know me and cliffies! ;)