Ok, so here’s the next chap!! Just a reminder, next Wed, I have job training so after that, IDK how much time I’ll actually have to write. So ya, updates will be slower n randomer. Ok, enjoy!!
“These look great, thank you, Mari,” Lana said smiling as she looked at the suits Mari helped them make. Mari beamed at the two with a nod.
“Well, I can’t let you two go out in something atrocious like the bat family's choices if I can help it. Tikki also blessed it so that it’s not easy to get throu,” Mari added with a giggle. “Go, try them on!'' The two left the living room of Lana’s apartment and changed into the gear they would be wearing as Gotham’s newest vigilantes. Lana exited her bedroom quickly and moved to stand in front of Mari to let her see how it fit. “Perfect fit,” she hummed out with a smile, glad she got the measurements right.
Lana smiled as she looked down at her suit. It consisted of a dark gray, near close to black, under armour that was sleeveless. It went up her neck mandarin style with a gold lining making a couple of ‘openings’ to show her neck. Over it was a purple, sleeveless kimono/robe-esque covering that slowly transitioned to darker and transparent purple at the end at past mid-calf. It had a hood attached and had a gold lining around the front of it that ended mid chest. On her shoulders and down was black that ended, split up in points at the end of the gold. Her shoulders were bare with the gold lining making half-circles starting at mid-upper arm and ended above her elbows. Under the gold was purple sleeves that went to her hands, held in place by a loop around her middle fingers.
Around her waist was a magenta-y colored sash that was knotted with gold wings on either side keeping it in place. On the sash were two purple and red metal fans along with a pouch in the same color. On her back were two silver escrima sticks. On both thighs, were red straps holding two deep red pouches that contained zip-ties and other things that would help her in battle. Black, heeled boots covered her feet. The heels were purple that could be taken out to show a compartment to hold sds, flash drives, and the like. They were knee high with a similar pattern to her color with gold trim. To finish it off, a red domino mask covered her eyes and her hair was pulled into a bun with a ribbon that matched the sash.
“Excellently made, as always, Angel,” Damian said, causing Mari to blush. Lana chuckled softly as she shook her head at the two in front of her.
Xan came out next and Mari nodded once more with a smile. His suit consisted of a deep gray, loose shirt that was styled like a karate gi. It’s lapel was deep blue with the collar mandarin style. The sleeves were short and big letting him move his arms more. Over it was a black cloak that stopped at his hips with a pin that had a stylized M, and a hood. Under the cloak but over the shirt was a red belt/strap that went from his shoulder to side holding pellets of knockout gas and smoke. Around his waist was a pale gold/yellow sash that held a couple of pouches holding zipties and throwing star-like items.
His shirt continued down on one side to mid-thigh, laying on top of another wrap-like item that was a deeper blue than the lining with gold lines running in arcs all over. On his right thigh was a blue pouch holding tools. Knee high combat boots covered his feet and tucked in the deep gray pants. Black gloves covered his hands, held in place by pale gold/yellow strings. Resting on his back was a red handled katana that was blunted and acted more like a staff. Covering his eyes was a red domino mask.
“Lookin good, Xan,” Lana said and Xan nodded back to her with a smile.
“That looks similar to-” Damian started but then cut off, but everyone knew what he was talking about. It was similar to the training outfits worn at the League of Shadows.
“They were a….big part of why I’m ready to fight crime. While I don’t like it, I’m more suited to fighting in this style of clothing,” he said and Damian nodded to that.
“Then make it your own.”
Xan smiled at those words and nodded. Mari beamed at the two of them and glanced outside. “Well, the sun is setting so you should be able to run around the rooftops and get used to them,” Mari suggested and the two nodded.
“What are you going to call yourselves?” Damian asked and the two shared a look.
“I’ll go by Huntress,” Lana said after a moment and the two nodded.
“Fitting.”
“I’m not sure,” Xan replied with a hum, thinking about what would fit. Lana had a smile as a gleam entered her eye.
“We’ll call you Kit until you figure out a name,” she said with a cackle, easily dodging Xan as the two started laughing as well.
“It’s something for the time being,” Mari replied between laughs and Xan looked at her betrayed.
“Come on, Kit! We’ve got to patrol!” she called out running to the balcony and jumping off it. He scowled but followed after her with a shake of his head.
“I’m not being called that!”
“Then pick a name before someone talks to us!”
Mari giggled as she transformed and followed after them herself. “You coming?” she asked and Damian soon nodded after a bit. After Mari left, he quickly changed into his Robin gear and ran after the three.
“There are some places you’ll want to avoid as they are frequented by Rogues. Not all Rogues need to be avoided, but, well,” Robin trailed off and the two nodded.
“It would be good to know anyways. Wouldn’t want to accidentally run into Two-Face or something,” Huntress said and Ladybug nodded.
“I can agree. It was not fun running into a Rogue when first starting out,” Ladybug said with a grimace.
“At least we don’t have to worry about Joker,” Kit muttered and the three nodded agreement. Screaming sounded out causing the four to stop running before turning to the sound. Hiding behind a ledge, they watched as a man entered the bank. The man was wearing a sleeveless black under armour, with a multi-colored knitted scarf, fingerless gloves, and sash. The sash had a few balls of yarn along with a couple knitting needles sticking out. On his back stuck out quite a few more knitting needles. On his feet were purple, knee-high combat boots and covering his face was a black domino mask. Strings went from his gloves to two monsters in front of him, they were knitted too. They had eerie white yarn over their mouths as if in a vain attempt to close it, but that didn’t stop the two from either smiling or frowning. Along their ‘hands’ and ‘feet’ three knitting needles stuck out along with some sticking out of their backs.
“Who is that?” Huntress muttered.
“I’m not sure. Do you want us to take care of it?” Robin asked and Huntress shook her head.
“No, we got this,” she replied standing up with Kit right behind her. “See you in a few,” giving a salute, she pulled out a grappling gun and pushed off the ledge. She shot the grapple back and swung down to the street and landed with a roll. Her right arm behind her, slipping the grappling gun back into place before grabbing an escrima from her back. Her left arm pulled a fan from her sash and flicked it open. Kit landed soon after she did and flicked his blunted katana out of its holder on his back. “New to town? Stealing from a bank isn’t the best way to make friends,” Huntress called out and the man turned startled.
“Who are you?” the man asked as his knitted creations turned to them.
“We’re the newest vigilantes to Gotham. Figured the big Bat could use some help so that he could focus on the big bads. Call me Huntress. But the better question is, who are you? And why did you think you’d succeed in Gotham of all places?” Huntress asked with a shake of her head as Kit snorted next to her.
“And him?” the man asked. Kit grumbled next to her, causing Huntress to cover her snort with a cough.
“Haven’t thought of a proper name….” he started.
“Call him Kit for the time being,” Huntress finished and the man stuck his chin up with a smirk.
“Well, you may have heard of me, they call me The Knitter!” he shouted and the two shared a look before shaking their heads.
“Never heard of ya before,” Huntress said while Kit tilted his head.
“Is ‘the’ part of your name? Or…?”
“I-” the man stopped with a confused look. “You haven’t heard of me? And yes it is!”
“Well, The Knitter, we have not heard of ya before. I doubt any Gothamite has,” Huntress said, twirling her escrima in hand.
“Prepare to be taken down,” Kit continued and The Knitter growled before throwing a hand out at them.
“Then prepare for your doom! My darling creations will knit you into an early grave!” the man shouted as the creatures then ran forward, with a swipe, knitting needles flew at them. Huntress ran forward and knocked aside the needles with her fan and gave a soft grunt as she then hit one of the creatures with her escima. Kit ran after the other one and slashed at it. The creature hit each stroke with a paw, the needles clanging against his sword each time. He jumped back with narrowed eyes before pulling out a small, black throwing knife. The handle was wrapped with a deep blue cord until the end were a hoop was, big enough for his finger to slip throu and twirl.
He threw the knife at the strings as The Knitter yelled out. As soon as the strings were cut, the creature fell to the ground lifelessly. Huntress smirked as she rushed forward and swung her fan, cutting throu the strings as well.
The Knitter yelled out when he saw his creatures fall lifelessly to the ground. He then pulled out a couple of knitting needles and ran at the two. Huntress ran forward and knocked aside the needles easily with her fans. She swung her leg in a sweeping motion, knocking him onto his back. Kit ran over pulling out zip ties and held them ready as Huntress pushed the man onto his stomach and let Kit zip tie him. “The GPD will be here soon and you will be booked,” Huntress said as she pulled The Knitter into a sitting position as the two stood to either side of the man.
The Knitter grumbled angrily next to them as they waited for the GPD. People all around them looked at them shocked, taking photos of them.
Alya soon arrived at the scene with Dick and some other officers. They paused shocked while Alya just moved forward and nodded, sending them a smile. “Thank you…?” she asked, since while she knew who they were UNDER the mask, she didn’t know the names they chose.
“Huntress,” she said and Alya nodded, looking over at Kit.
“For the time being, I’m going by Kit,” he said and Alya stifled a snort at seeing his face.
“Thank you, Huntress and Kit,” she managed with a straight face. She then took the man from them and marched him over to the cruiser.
“Come on, Kit!” Huntress called jumping up and off buildings back to the rooftops.
“You guys did well,” Robin admitted and the two shared a smile as Ladybug held a fist out for them to hit.
“Thanks. I have a feeling we’ll be seeing more of The Knitter,” Huntress said as they ran across the roofs.
“That may be true. But I have no doubt that you two will have it handled easily,” Ladybug replied with Robin nodding agreement.
“Now, let’s go see what places we should avoid!” Kit replied and the two nodded, continuing to lead them off.
Owl Blocked Again @owlforlife
LOOK AT THIS!!! NEW VIGILANTES!! And a new Rogue???? #weird #butawesome #newvigilantes #newbatfam??? *Huntress and Kit fighting the knitted creatures then another picture of them holding the man down waiting for police*
Ok, so here’s the new chap! I hope you guys enjoyed it!! If the link to their outfit doesn’t work plz tell me. But also, here’s this chaps link to Tumblr that has the outfits already: . Again, I hope you enjoy it, new chaps will be randomly updated due to many things. Until Next time!! -Love Willa<3<3<3
AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/20887313/chapters/63175624
Taglist: @bluesimani OPEN
So, it’s been a little while since this was updated. Sorry, but well, my sister came for a visit for a week n a half about n well, ya. That took up a lot of my time. N then I also wanted to get that self-indulgent one-shot angst done so ya. I think that one shot was the biggest reason since motivation came and went. Also, I’m getting ready to move to live with my sister for one of my college semesters to see how I enjoy it. And well, idk when this will come out so ya. That’s also pushing back this update since im spending some days packing up stuff I want to bring with me besides clothes, school supplies, and hygiene item......its after finally arriving and unpackin...BUT ITS HERE NOW!(im sorry bout the wait)
No matter tho! This is the next day after the dinner n we get to see how the night went before gettin some more daminette(n some dick/alya/xavier....i need to come up with a ship name for em....feel free to offer some)!! Anyways, enjoy!!!!
Small sounds woke Dick up from his sleep. He looked around, trying to see if there was any danger when he noticed next to him Alya was making soft sounds, her head turning a bit as barely audible ‘no’s left her. She was curled up next to him, her hair a bit of a mess, her bangs and sides plastered to her face while the rest tangled on the pillow. Her back was to Xavier, who had woken up as well and started making soft, soothing hums as he ran a hand along her arm.
Seeing the immediate effect, Dick started running a hand thru her hair, humming along to the tune Xavier began. Moving closer, Alya latched onto Dick, her arms wrapping around his waist as she tried burying her face into his side. The two wrapped themselves around her and continued their soft hums and touches, slowly helping her out of her nightmare.
After some time, Alya’s breathing settled down as she was once more relaxed in her sleep. Xavier smiled softly at dick as he pressed a kiss to the back of Alya’s head and slowly fell back asleep after watching for a few minutes to make sure her nightmare didn’t start back up. Dick tho, he stayed up a bit longer, continuing to run his finger’s thru her hair, untangling it gently. Pressing a kiss to her forehead, Dick sighed thru his nose before falling asleep next to them.
~~~~~~~~~~~~(ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧~~~~~~~~~~~~
Damian woke to Alfred the cat jumping off his bed. Usually, that wouldn’t wake him. But tonight, the way he jumped off the bed woke Damian. Usually, Alfred’s jumps were relaxed and slow, moving at his own pace. But right then, it seemed more urgent. He looked around and found Xan awake.
Xan had his arms wrapped around his knees as he stared at the door. Looking closer as his eyes adjusted to the darkness, Damian noticed that Xan was tense, his fingers digging into his arms. Alfred was rubbing himself against Xan’s side and legs, a purr leaving him to help soothe Xan. As Damian watched, Xan moved a hand from his arm and started scratching Alfred’s head and chin.
Damian moved from his bed and sat down near Xan, giving him a moment before speaking finally. “What happened?” he asked, and Xan glanced over at Damian before looking at the door again.
“I saw them,” Xan started in a whispered, not needing to elaborate for Damian, he already knew who ‘they’ were. “We were at the League tho. I......I attacked them immediately when she asked me too. I didn’t hesitate. I couldn’t stop myself as-as I-” he stopped then, taking a deep, shuddering breath. He took a moment to concentrate on Alfred under his fingers before he continued speaking. “I killed them,” he spoke the words so softly that Damian almost didn’t hear it.
“But you didn’t. It was just a nightmare. Nothing about it is true,” Damian said, and Xan nodded slowly at that.
“Maybe, but.......it was so vivid...so clear. It felt like I was still in the league, following their orders blindly to survive. It was like I never left....like you never helped me out of that hell hole,” he admitted, and Damian reached over and squeezed Xan’s shoulder.
“I know. It can seem so real, make you think you never left even thou you do the one thing you know you would never do. I’ve had similar nightmares,” Damian admitted and Xan glanced over at him.
“Really? Do you still?” he asked softly as Damian reached a hand out to scratch Alfred’s chin.
“Occasionally, yes. It does get better, I promise. It just takes time. You can always come talk to me or Jason. Or Rae even. Do you remember her?” Damian asked and Xan pursed his lips before nodding slowly, he remembered the woman. She helped train him in League before disappearing years prior. “She will listen if you ask her too.”
“Where is she?” Xan asked turning a bit to look over at Damian easier.
“She’s opening a restaurant called Janat Al'Amal, but she’s working at Rose Petal’s Boutique until it’s ready for the grand opening,” Damian said and Xan smiled with a small smile on his lips.
“Paradise of Hope...that’s a nice name,” Xan said and Damian had the faintest of smiles as he nodded agreement.
“It is. She chose a great name for her future restaurant. I’ve been in touch with her along with Jon and Ember. You haven’t met Ember yet but she’s Jon’s friend and hangs with us. Rae likes to let people vent or talk about their problems to her,” Damian explained and Xan nodded understanding.
“I’ll go talk with her tom-today?” he said tilting his head to look at the clock and saw that it was past midnight, around 1 am.
“Good. I can bet you won’t go to sleep immediately, right?” Damian asked and Xan nodded. Getting the confirmation, Damian stood up and went over to his desk and pulled out a sketchbook and pencil, and walked over to Xan. “Mari said you drew to relax. Here,” he crouched down and held it out.
“Thanks,” Xan said giving Damian a small smile as he took the offered items and flipped the pages to a clear one and started sketching. Damian nodded as he then went back to his bed. Laying down, he looked over at Xan one last time, watching as he drew intently with Alfred going onto his shoulders to relax, before falling asleep once more, knowing he did what he could to help his friend.
~~~~~~~~~~~~(ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧~~~~~~~~~~~~
Xan and Damian were one of the first people up in the morning. They got a quick bite to eat before going to the indoor gym the manor had to spar for a bit. Alfred worked on breakfast for everyone when the two left. Clark was up next followed by Kon and Jon. By 8, Dick, Xavier, Jason, and Tim came down to eat and work on some stuff. After some time, Alya came down walking beside Lana as she took slow steps.
Raising a hand, Lana greeted everyone sleepily as she slowly woke up. “How are you feeling, Lana?” Clark asked setting the newspaper down to look over at her. The rest of the family looked over as well as she gave a small smile.
“Better. Thank you for letting us stay the night,” she said and Clark returned the smile.
“It was nothing,” Clark said moving his hand to look at the time. “Well, I better get going. I promised Perry I’d send over my article before noon. Have a good day you guys. Also, Lana, I would like to talk to you about your future,” Clark said and Lana smiled at that and nodded. Getting the nod from Lana, Clark left to the office Bruce got him so that he could work.
“I’m glad your feeling better now, Lana,” Jason said and Lana glanced over at him with a faint smile.
“Ya, sorry about that,” she mumbled softly, glancing over at Alya who squeezed her shoulder.
“Don’t be. You couldn’t have known,” Jason said and Lana nodded, knowing he was right.
“Lana, would you be willing to accompany me to pick up Mari? She’d love to see that you’re doing better this morning,” Damian said and Lana nodded.
“Sure. But I won’t be able to stay long, I shouldn’t leave Cocoa alone much longer, especially since it’s time for breakfast,” Lana replied and Damian nodded.
“Understood. Let’s head over now and I can drop you off after Mari sees that you’re well,” Damian replied and Lana nodded, eating a slice of toast and some fruit before standing up with Damian to head out.
“I’ll talk to you later, Lana,” Alya called out before Lana left the room.
“Als, I’ll be heading out myself. Fresh air will do me some good. There’s also someone I want to visit,” Xan said and Alya nodded.
“Of course. Stay safe, Xan. And Don’t hesitate to call if you need help,” she replied and Xan nodded before getting up. “Dick?” she asked and Dick smiled.
“Yup, we should get going ourselves,” Dick agreed.
“Don’t die,” Tim called out.
“No promises, you’ve seen, Mr. Lingo,” Dick yelled back as the three left the room and Tim nodded agreement.
~~~~~~~~~~~~(ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧~~~~~~~~~~~~
Mari beamed when she saw Damian and Lana entering the hotel lobby. Jumping up from her seat at the table, she ran over to the two and hugged Lana while her friends smiled from the table. “I’m so sorry for what happened, Lana! I should have asked first before making them!” Mari said as Lana returned the hug before pushing Mari back a bit to look Mari in the eyes and give her a gentle smile.
“It’s ok, Mari. Nothing bad happened. And I should have also asked about it. It’s my problem to remember, not yours. As much as I’d like to stay and talk, I need to get home, Cocoa is waiting for me,” Lana said, squeezing Mari’s shoulders as she spoke. Mari returned the small smile as she nodded.
“Ok,” she said before perking up. “Wait!” she rushed over to their table and Chloe held out the bag of cookies to her. She grabbed the bag and ran back over to the two. “Here, I made these for you! Don’t worry, I made sure nothing pecan came near them!”
Lana smiled softly as she took the bag and put them carefully into her pocket and pulled Mari into another hug. “Thank you,” she whispered before pulling back once more.
“I’ll be back after I drop her off, angel,” Damian said, causing to Mari to blush lightly as she nodded understanding. As the two turned away to leave, Lana had a teasing smile after giggling softly at Mari’s blush.
“‘Angel’, huh?” she asked, sending him a look that had Damian blushing lightly. Before the door closed behind the two, Mari and her friends listened to Lana laugh. Mari walked over to the table and continued to eat her breakfast while her friends sent her looks.
“I think you found yourself a ~boyfriend~,” Lila said in a sing-song voice. Mari’s blush deepened at that.
“I-no-!-He-!” Mari stuttered out, unable to form a single sentence while her friends laughed around her. “Oh!” she crossed her arms on the table and slammed her head down onto them. Adrien smiled softly as he patted her back while Lila covered her mouth with her hand to stifle giggles.
“Don’t worry Maribug, I’m sure he’d be delighted to be dating you,” Adrien said as Chloe nodded agreement next to him, leaning closer against him to look at her.
“Adrikins is right! He’d be a fool to not want to date you,” Chloe declared with a nod that the others shared.
“I agree. If he doesn’t ask you out today, then you need to do it yourself Mari,” Kim said with a serious look
“I-I wouldn’t even know how to!” Mari said with wide eyes and the table chuckled softly or shook their heads.
“Just be straight forward. Say how you feel then ask ‘would you go out on a date with me?’. Or, if that’s too scary ask him to hang out with you, alone,” Lila said and the group nodded agreement. Right then, the doors opened showing Damian entering with two people.
“Jon!” Chloe yelled out excited and the two got up quickly and ran over to Jon. Jon smiled as he hugged the two.
“I know it’s only been a couple of days, but that’s two days too long,” Jon whispered and the two nodded agreement.
“Definitely,” Chloe said pulling him to the table. Jon happily let them pull him to a table and sat between the two, holding their hands.
“Jon and Ember were walking by as I came back,” Damian said as Ember waved to them with a smile.
“Hi! It’s nice to meet Jon and Damian’s friends! Damian doesn’t admit it, but we’re friends,” Ember greeted, saying the last part in a mock whispered that had the group snorting while Damian rolled his eyes. “But call me Elle! Practically everyone does,” she said as the group smiled at her.
“How’d you meet him?” Kim asked leaning onto the table, wanting to know the story since when he first met Damian so long ago the dude was rather cold still.
“Jon. I was friends with Jon since he helped me in elementary school. And so then Jon and Damian became sorta friends. When that happened, I was introduced to Damian. It was hard but he likes me now,” she said and the group nodded.
“Is he still called ‘Ice Prince’?” Nino asked, pushing his cap back a bit.
“Oh ya. I have been warned against talking to him by like....everyone it seems at some point since I joined GA this year,” Ember said with a laugh and Damian had a smirk at that, a soft snort leaving him that only Mari heard.
“Really? Why’s that?” Max asked then, pausing in his typing on his phone.
“All the freshmen get warned about him. Even tho it was...what....years ago that you broke a kid’s arm?” Ember asked looking over at Damian who nodded.
“Yes. I broke a kids arm when I was in fifth grade. Give or take 8 years ago,” Damian replied and Ember nodded.
“Wait......freshmen? You were warned about him even thou you were there for that?” Kim asked confused and Ember shook her head.
“I wasn’t there for that exactly. I’m a freshman right now....well sophomore now while they’re seniors.”
“Oh, ok. You’re younger than them,” Nino replied and Ember nodded with a smile.
“H-hey, Mari?” a timid voice called. The group turned to see Alya standing there looking rather shy, which was weird for them. “I talked to Ms. Bustier and got us the day off. I thought you’d like to have a break from working and hang out with your friends,” Alya said and Mari gave the girl a small smile and nod.
“Thank you, Alya,” Mari said and Alya gave Mari one last timid smile before going back to the others that were sort of being shunned by Mari and her friends.
“That was nice of her,” Damian commented as he watched Alya sit down, looking down, he could only guess it was her phone.
“It was,” Mari agreed, she knew, or could guess that is, why Alya was doing it. But she wasn’t sure she’d be able to forgive Alya and the others yet, let alone become their friends again, after everything.
“Since we have the day off, why don’t we do something?” Lila asked with a tilt of her head. The group nodded excitedly in agreement.
“We should! Maybe a park?” Sabrina suggested and the group nodded as Mari looked over at Damian with a tilt of her head.
“Are there any parks you’d suggest for us to visit?” Mari asked and Damian’s head tilted just slightly as he thought about it before nodding.
“Yes. There’s a lovely park a few miles away. Not many people visit it due to it being owned by Poison Ivy, but that’s even better since there won’t be any ruckus to disturb the beauty,” Damian said, and that had Mari beaming.
“Really? Let’s go!” Mari said and the group laughed softly at her eagerness. They all stood up and left the hotel, following Damian as he led the way while Ember chatted with Lila about the two, and Jon was distracted by his girlfriend and boyfriend.
Damian had the softest look on his face as he watched Mari look around the park in awe. He watched as she flitted about sketching things and taking pictures. Jon had a small smile as he looked between his lovers and Damian. “You should ask her out,” Jon said softly as Mari talked excitedly with her friends.
“Maybe I will,” Damian said softly as he started making his way over to Mari. Mari glanced over curious when Lila pointed out he was coming over. “May I speak to you alone?” he asked and Mari nodded and followed him to a willow tree at the corner and pack of the park with lanterns hanging intermittently from its branches.
Foxy @actingfordays
OMG!!! Look what’s happening!!! Is it what I think!?!? #omg #isit? #opt *picture of Damian and Mari under the willow tree*
A Blocked Owl @owlforlife
Oh my god. THE OTP IS HAPPENING!!! #otp #iceprincesunshine #sunshinechild
Ok, so this update was delayed....but I did get this done BEFORE wednesday!! So hah! I hope you guys enjoyed this chap! I bet you guys can guess whats gonna happen next chap!! Until next time!! -Love Willa<3<3<3
AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/20887313/chapters/61783012
Taglist: @bluesimani TAGLIST OPEN
Ok, so here’s the next chap!! And if your wondering.....ya, the new revision of the mermaid au is paused....again. Ya....I dont think I’ll ever get that done. Lol. hope you guys werent TOO excited bout it. But anyways. Here’s the next chap! Feat Bustier bein a stupid bitch!!!!
“Ya, Als is apparently seeing if Clark would mentor me. I...I dont know. It just...seems too good to be true? I guess. Clark is an awesome reporter. But I doubt he’d want to mentor me when I graduate,” Lana said with a shrug as they ate lunch. Bee frowned as she squeezed her friend’s hand.
“Don’t say that Lana,” Mari said and her friends nodded agreement. “Have hope! It sounds like a lot of people think you’re doing great in your journalism classes, so I bet you’ll get that mentorship.”
“Ya! Don’t let that doubt control you. You just gotta have hope and wait. You’ll only know for certain when it’s your final year,” Xan said giving her a small smile from his spot between the Lila’s. Mari reached across the table, which was a feat in itself from how big the table was, and squeezed Lana’s hand. Tho she didn’t last long before pulling back since that position wasn’t the most comfortable to be in. Adrien nodded his agreement to both of what they said.
“Can I ask you a question about GU?” Chloe asked as she leaned against Adrien. Lana gave a soft him as she nodded.
“Sure. But I don’t know how much help I’ll be,” she replied honestly.
“You’ll be lots of help. Our boyfriend Jon wants to be a reporter like his parents. He knows how the program is in Metropolis but, I was wondering, could you tell us about GU’s journalism program? He wants to stay with his dad and friends here,” Chloe asked and Lana gave a small smile as she nodded.
As Lana talked, Mari sent a wary glance when she saw Bustier making her way over to them with Sabrina, Kim, and Max trying to get her to stop. Her glance turned into a glare, that had her hesitating but Bustier continued forward. The rest of the class was behind her looking wary.
“Marinette! Why don’t you introduce us to your friends?” Bustier asked with a sweet but demanding smile. Lana tensed a bit as she looked at the group.
“I already said no. Leave,” Mari said with a glare but Bustier didn’t care and moved to stand next to Lana.
“Hello, I’m Ms. Bustier, Marinette’s teacher. I couldn’t help but overhear, you’re in the journalism track here? Could you tell us about the programs?” she asked and Lana swallowed the lump in her throat. She started shaking her head as she squeezed Bee’s hand.
“She doesn’t want to,” Bee said softly, a hint of anger tainting her voice. She wasn’t about to let some woman tell her friend what to do.
“What’s the big deal? She should be more than willing to talk about her school!” Bustier said, slapping at Kim and Ivan’s hands as they tried to steer her away. Lana’s lips parted a bit as shallow breaths left her. She dropped Bee’s hand and wrapped her arms around herself, hunching in.
Seeing that, everyone at the table moved to glare at the teacher. All the work they’ve done to help Lana get past Steve’s abuse is being undone. Mari pushed out of her share and slammed a hand on the table. Whatever little conversations remained stopped as everyone turned to watch the foreigners.
“What about the word ‘no’ do you not get!? I have said no, Lana has said no! No means no! So leave her alone!” Mari yelled into Bustier’s face, the woman looked outraged as she then grabbed Mari’s wrist.
“That is no way to speak to me, young lady! I understand the word no perfectly fine. It is Lana that doesn’t know it seems. Nor you. She hasn’t said anything yet,” Bustier said pulling her back toward the group of shocked teens.
“I do, it’s you that doesn’t!” Mari yelled pulling her arm back. By then, a few college students got up to do something when a loud bang resounded. Lana was standing, her chair knocked backward behind her. Her hands were gripping her arms painfully, her fingers dug in, the tips of her fingers were white from the pressure. She was shaking a bit as she looked up at the teacher.
“Just leave me alone!” she shouted before booking it out of the cafeteria. Tears rimmed her eyes as Steve’s harsh words rang throu her head. Bee and L glared before grabbing their things and Lana’s and hurrying after her, knowing Xander and the others would deal with Bustier. Xander stalked toward the teacher, a deadly glare in his eyes pointed at Bustier.
“What is wrong with you!? Are you so fucking blind that you couldn’t see how badly she wanted you to leave her alone!?” Xan yelled angrily at his ex-teachers face. “I don’t know where it got into your head that you can ignore someone’s response but you can’t! Mari has told you no! You could see Lana shaking her head not wanting to do this, but you didn’t care! I hope you get fired for being a terrible teacher!” he shouted, poking her shoulder harshly as he yelled, actually forcing her back as she stumbled. He then picked up his bag and ran after the three.
By then a couple of college students went over to them and glared at the teacher. The two knew Lana from class and didn’t like seeing her being disrespected by a foreigner. Mari’s classmates were near the door already, having moved their as the confrontation happened, already wanting to be back at the hotel. “I think you should leave now,” the taller of the two said and Bustier harrumphed before spinning on the heel of her shoe and leaving. They all watched Bustier storm from the cafeteria with Mari’s classmates following. Mari and her friends followed behind since they did need to go back to the hotel.
~~~~~~~~~~~~(ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧~~~~~~~~~~~~
“I just! Oooh!” Mari grunted out as she fell into the chair next to Tim’s desk after dropping the papers she held.
“She really did that?” Tim asked and Mari nodded as she crossed her arms. “Man, I can’t believe she did that. Do you want me to start a case against her for the French Board of Education?” She groaned in response as she nodded.
“Yes, please.”
“Ok, I’ll start that up. How about you head home. I’m sure Alfred would be more than willing to bake with you,” Tim said and Mari smiled softly as she squeezed Tim’s hand and rushed out of his office and to the elevator. She was bouncing in the elevator, causing some of the occupants to chuckle. As soon as they reached the lobby, she was out of the elevator and out the swirling door in seconds. Adrien laughed from his spot next to the front desk lady at watching her book it.
That’s how Damian and the others found her hours later when they got home. Mari bustling about the kitchen making cheesecake and macaroons while Alfred started prepping dinner. “Everything ok, Mari?” Damian asked and Mari sighed. Dick already knew from Xan calling Alya and Alya telling him.
“Not really. Bustier was......a jerk when we visited GU. She uh....she got Lana to panic and rush from the cafeteria crying. Xan yelled her off before rushing after Lana. I haven’t heard anything since,” Mari explained with a sigh while Jason grumbled under his breath at hearing that.
“How did she even get her license?” Jason asked angrily and Mari shrugged.
“I have no idea.”
“Don’t worry, Alya got a message saying that Lana’s doing better,” Dick said and Mari sighed, relaxing slightly.
“What got to her exactly?” Mari asked softly and Dick scowled.
“The part of Bustier ignoring her wishes. Reminded her of, you know who,” Dick replied which had everyone scowling.
“Ah yes, that fucker,” Mari said causing everyone to look at her shocked. “What? Am I wrong?” she asked and they shook their heads.
“How about we invite them to dinner tonight? Make their days a bit better,” Dick offered, and that had Mari smiling.
“Way ahead of you, Master Dick. Ms. Lana and Alya along with Masters Xavier and Xander have been contacted,” Alfred said and Dick blushed at the look Alfred gave him.
“Wha-! I just meant Lana, Alya, and Xan!” Dick said hastily, especially at Alfred’s look.
“Of course, Master Dick. But Ms. Alya and Master Xavier already had something planned but were willing to change their plans if they could come together,” Alfred explained.
“What can’t handle both of them at the same time?” Jason said teasingly with a smirk as Dick scowled at him.
“Excited to see Lana now that she knows it was you who got her that necklace?” Dick countered, smirking at seeing the blush dusting Jason’s cheek.
“Fuck off,” Jason said walking out of the kitchen up to his room to change. Mari giggled at the exchange with a small smile.
“Well, all that’s left is the cheesecake, but that has to cool and set. So I should get back to the hotel and change,” she said looking down at her flour-covered clothes.
“I’ll take you back to your hotel,” Damian said and Mari beamed at him while Dick and Tim sent him looks. “Tt. You two should prepare yourselves for this dinner. Especially make sure there isn’t anything out to out us. Lana doesn’t know about our nightly activities. Xan knows about mine but no one else,” Damian warned and the two went to work to make sure nothing was out to expose them before they were ready.
While they were busy, Damian sent a smirk over to Mari as they walked to the garage. Mari giggled softly as she slipped thru the open car door that Damian held. After she got in, he closed the door and walked around the black car to the driver’s side and got in himself. The ride back to the hotel was a quiet affair and was quick. Mari was quick to clean up and change into a fresh dress and leggings, hopping on one foot as she tied her combat boots and heading to the door while Lila laughed from her seat on the bed.
“Mari, take a moment, you’re going to hurt yourself in your rush to get back to your boyfriend,” Lila said between laughs, laughs that grew with a teasing smirk at seeing Mari’s blush decorate her skin.
“H-he’s not my boyfriend!” Mari protested and Lila hummed.
“Sure. But you want him to,” she countered and Mari pouted as she nodded, her heart fluttering at the thought of it being real.
“Maybe,” Mari mumbled before looking at the time and yelping. She finished tying her shoes and rushed from the room. “Gotta go bye!” Lila could only shake her head and laugh as she watched Mari book it.
~~~~~~~~~~~~(ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧~~~~~~~~~~~~
A frown decorated Xavier’s lips as he leaned against the wall in Alya’s bedroom. Alya was leaning into a mirror as she put in new earrings and put on lipstick. They could hear Xan in the other room moving around. Alya had taken a break from talking so that she didn’t miss putting her earring in. she looked over at him thru the mirror. “I get it, I do. He’s hurting, he officially broke up with Babs. But....why is he pulling away from us? I was there for him every time when they broke up before! Why does he feel the need now?” Alya asked turning around to look at Xavier, her eyes tearing up at the thought that she couldn’t help Dick this time.
“Hey now, don’t you go thinking that. Dick just broke up with her. Perhaps he needs some alone time. I’m sure he’ll talk to us when he’s ready. I mean, their butler invited us to dinner. That has to mean he’s willing to talk to us,” Xavier said rubbing his hands along Alya’s upper arms. She nodded slowly in understanding, knowing he was right.
“Yes, you’re right. I know you’re right. He just needs time,” she mumbled with a sigh.
“And you’re right to worry. This hasn’t happened before for you, it’s understandable,” Xavier replied and Alya gave him a small smile as they left her room.
“Come on, we gotta pick Lana up,” she said and the two nodded. Xavier slipped into the passenger seat next to Alya while Xan went into the backseat. When they reached the apartment complex that let students from GU dorm there, Lana was in the lobby already, her leg bouncing. “Hey.”
“Hey, Als, Xan, Xavier,” Lana greeted and Xavier gave her a smile while Xan greeted her with a hug.
“Ready to see everyone?” Alya asked and Lana nodded.
“Ya, I’m glad to finally tell Jason thanks for giving me the necklace all that time ago,” she said, fiddling with said necklace.
“Good,” Alya replied, sending Lana a smile thru the review mirror.
Alster @Bi_Arrow
Change of plans! Heading out to eat dinner with Dick and his family with Lana, Xan, and Xavier! #thiswillbefun #dinnertime #hangout #changeofplans
Ok, So here’s the next chap!! The dinner will be in the next chap. I hope you guys enjoyed this new chap!!! Ms. Bustier is finally seeing the consequences of how she teaches! Anyways, until next chap!! -Love Willa<3<3<3
AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/20887313/chapters/59619589
Taglist: ASK AND YOU SHALL BE PUT ON~~!!!!
Ok, so here’s the next chap! Sorry about the wait, life got....interesting to say the least. At long last tho, we have Mari n Co heading to Gotham finally! Cant wait for the small reunion later this chap!! I FORGOT THE TWEETS AGAIN DAMNIT!!!!!! I am SOOOO sorry i WILL remember to keep addin them on at the ends!!!
“Your brother wants me and Lana to what?” Alya asked looking over at Dick tired.
“Stay put. Easy!” Dick replied and Alya glared at him.
“Uh, huh. He wants, me a Detective to not leave the precinct, and Lana, a college student to not move even tho she has cleanses to go to?” she repeated and Dick pressed his lips together.
“Ok, when you put it like that-” he started but got cut off by Alya putting her hand over Dick’s.
“Damian isn’t even here. Why does he care what we do since your his brother who should get his butt over to the airport since his flight should be landing in 20 or so minutes and its already 9:50. Get your ass over to that airport to give your brother a hug,” Alya said glaring and Dick yelped. “Ya, give a call when your getting back since well, you’ll see,” she said gripping his shirt and pulling him close and DIck swallowed the lump in his throat, “that Babs ain’t the only one to kick your ass into shape.”
A smirk grew on Dick’s face at that. “Is that a promise?” he teased and Alya scoffed pushing him back.
“You had your chance buddy. Now get outta here before I make you regret being late to seeing Damian arrive,” she said and Dick gave a mock salute before scurrying off, grabbing his keys as he ran while their fellow cops laugh around them.
“Did he really have a chance?” A British African American FBI agent asked as he watched Dick leave, his accent still going strong even tho he’s been in New Jersey for the last 5 years.
“Eh, possibly, Xavier. I do have eyes you know,” she said and Xavier snorted as he straightened his stack of papers. “Once maybe, until you realize he’ll only have eyes for Babs,” she continued and Xavier nodded.
“You’ll find love, I’m sure of it. If Shrek can find love as an Ogre, so can you,” Xavier said and Alya made a fake offended sound in response.
“Are you saying I look like an Ogre?” she asked and Xavier raised his hands in defense.
“Not at all!” he said and some people hummed at that.
“It really sounded like it~!” the precincts secretary, Mira, hummed out with a smirk and Xavier glared over at her.
“Don’t anger the Goddess! She’ll rain down on you the wrath of almighty Zeus himself!” a different cop, Sarah she thought, shouted causing Alya to snort.
“I ain’t no Goddess, silly!” she shouted over to them. The cop in question, it was Sarah she can recognize that golden blonde ponytail anywhere, stuck her head out the break room with a look.
“No, you are a Goddess. Especially in that flowing dress, you wore for the Halloween party Dick threw,” she called and Alya rolled her eyes as some nodded agreement.
“You guys are ridiculous, get back to work,” she called and that had everyone nodding agreement while Alya chuckled to herself as she went to her desk. Xavier followed and leaned against the desk with his hip.
“Sticking a pin in that ‘Is Alya Grayson a Goddess or Not’ conversation,” he said chuckling softly, “I do hope whatever it is Dick’s brother has planned for you is nice,” he said and Alya smiled at him while nodding slowly.
“So do I. Now, isn’t Agent Fornell waiting for those documents your holding?” she asked and Xavier nodded with a smile.
“That he is. Talk to you later then. Goodbye!” he said beaming as he walked backward, waving to everyone who returned it before he left the precinct.
Alya shook her head as she pulled her phone out and texted Lana:
Als: Heads up, Damian apparently wants you and I to stay put where we r
Eagle-eye: whys that???? We rnt the closest
Als: who knows. Dick was just sending the message. idk, maybe Mari wants to hug us when she arrives?
Eagle-eye: maybe. I dont got time to theorize, got a test to do
Als: GL!!
~~~~~~~~~~~~(ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧~~~~~~~~~~~~
Mari was bouncing between Damian and Xander as they boarded the plane finally after waiting for so long. They had to deal with morning traffic which took forever it felt like before they arrived an hour and a half arrive before their flight left making sure they didn’t have to worry about security taking forever. And the whole time Mari stared at the desk with her leg bouncing.
With 30 minutes to spare, Ms. Bustier arrived, the last one too. The other students had converged in the gate slowly at different times but with enough time to not worry. But Ms. Bustier arrived with less than 30 minutes to spare causing her class to worry.
Which to say the least?
Was awkward.
Alya and the others that didn’t know sat at one side of the gate looking at Mari and the people that knew awkwardly. They felt bad but knew they messed up.
BIG time.
Like MEGA BIG TIME that a simple apology wouldn’t work. It didn’t help that Mari’s friends didn’t let them thru. Kim, Nino, Chloe, Sabrina, Max, Lila, Xan, and Adrien all glared at them while Damian focused on Mari. Meanwhile, Alya, Alix, Mylene, Ivan, and Rose all tried figuring out what they could do to earn favor back from Mari. Juleka was the only one in the pure neutral middle ground. She skimmed the email and knew a movie was being filmed.
But didn’t know Lila was lying for sure.
She could guess. When Mari tried saying that and the disagreed she figured she’d stay quiet. She didn’t need anyone else trying to make her life hell. So Mari was neutral toward the girl as she hasn’t been present at that moment. So she was silently supporting the group and offering tidbits to help them realize that they need to change themselves before trying to regain Mari’s trust and friendship.
Only Time Will Tell.
They boarded the plane and sat back for the long flight. Most of them slept during the trip. Mari and Lila included. The two leaned against each other while Xan and Damian talked. Well, Damian talked. Which was odd. But it distracted Xan from the anxiety pooling in his gut as they flew.
After some time, and some crackers, the dread settled down. Damian told him everything that’s happened in Gotham since he left. Some he didn’t like hearing. But as Damian reminded him, everything was ok. No one is hurt.
Soon after Damian finished, Mari and Lila woke up. Lila smiled as she and Damian switched seats and she took Xan’s hand into hers. “It’ll be fine. They’re going to be so happy to see you,” she said quietly and Xan nodded.
“Even knowing what happened?” he asked and Lila hummed, tracing a finger along the back of his hand in nonsensical patterns.
“Ya, I think so. I think that they’re just going to be so happy that you survived everything and came back to them. From what it sounds like, if you didn’t, you wouldn’t be here today,” Lila whispered leaning her head against his shoulder. In return, Xan lightly leaned his head against her head with a sigh.
“Ya, that’s what Damian said too. I know it’s true, but my head just keeps pushing all these doubts,” he mumbled.
“That’s fair. It’s been 8 years since you’ve seen them. Lana watched you get hit. And then, seemingly right before her eyes, you disappear. People change with time. But, those bonds? They don’t typically change. I bet they still miss you as if it was just yesterday,” she replied and Xan nodded slowly, placing his other hand over their hands, squeezing her hands.
“Thank you,” he whispered as they relaxed in their seats and played a movie for the rest of the flight.
“I hope they enjoy the surprise,” Mari whispered and Damian gave a small nod at that.
“I have no doubt that they’ll love it,” he said and Mari smiled softly at that.
“Ya, and they have you to thank for that,” she said and Damian gave a shrug.
“You did most of the work and helped him get better,” he pointed out and Mari smiled as she pressed a kiss to his cheek, a faint blush on her cheeks from doing that, not seeing Damian’s faint blush either.
“Well, I wouldn’t have been able to help if you hadn’t helped him escape. You may not have stayed, but you certainly did help,” she said softly and Damian nodded slowly at that. He remembered it clearly. Even tho it happened over a year ago, it was clear to him.
Damian had turned the GPS off the batjet and flew to Nanda Parbat. He remembered the boy that his mother kidnapped and brought back to life. He remembered training with him a couple of times to let him know he wouldn’t tolerate anything but perfection. He didn’t know what happened to the boy older than him when he left. But then he learned and regretted everything.
Xander was the little brother to Dick’s partner Alya who disappeared. He learned from Issi that Xan, or better known as Whisper in the League, was alive still and there. She had wanted to help get him out since she helped care for him, but she couldn’t without getting caught or killed for real. But now he’d fix the mistake he made.
It was quite easy to sneak into the building. He made his way to where he remembered his bedroom was. He knocked out any guard he saw and pounded on the door. Xan was wearing his training gear when he opened the door. He didn’t recognize Damian as the angry 9-year-old that beat him up when he first arrived. He was wearing all black with a hood and mask on to hide his identity. “W-who are you?” Xan asked suspiciously as he picked up the sword he kept next to the door.
“Do you want to stay here?” Damian asked and Xan looked at him confused.
“Wha-?”
“Do you want to stay here or escape? I can get you out,” he said and Xan glanced around before nodding slowly.
“I want to go back home,” he said and Damian nodded as he then started tugging Xan out. Damian was shocked he was still able to recognize Xan after all this time and all the changes. He wasn’t the same short, scrawny 11-year-old. He had filled out and was taller than Damian by quite a few inches.
“I’ll get you home then,” he said leading them out. As they ran out in the snow, Damian was behind Xan making sure he didn’t get hit. Which was a miracle in the storm, slipping on hidden ice as they ran. But he had been. So the best bet was to get him to Mari and Fu who would help him heal. So when he reached the outskirts of Paris, he cloaked and flew to an alley near the fight and helped Xan out. “This is as far as I can get you. I’m sorry,” he whispered as Xan gripped his head falling to the ground with his backed pressed to the wall.
“I just wish I could have brought him home all the way,” he whispered and Mari took his hand in hers and gave it a squeeze.
“You did what you could, Dami. He was hurt and needed help. If he had been taken directly to Gotham, who knows what would have happened,” she argued and Damian nodded slowly.
“Yes, I know. I just....when he recognized me when I saw the tat on his back. I....I wasn’t prepared to see the tat on his back and I forgot he was there still. So much happened since I got him out, I forgot he was with you. And he didn’t remember me helping him out. And I told him and he was happy. Even thou I didn’t get him out safely, he was happy,” he said at length and Mari once more squeezed his hand.
“Well, that’s probably because he knew you did your best. You went back to get him out of that place unprompted. You could have left him there, but you didn’t. You got him out with only a head injury that made everything fuzzy. Give yourself credit, Dami,” Mari said and Damian gave her a small smile at the end of her little speech.
“Thank you,” he whispered and Mari beamed at him.
After some time, the plane landed and they went thru the sequence to leave. Mari smiled as she watched Dick hug Damian with his brothers behind him smirking at his mock displeasure. When Xan appeared talking to Lila, the entire Wayne Family froze in shock. “Y-you-!” Jason started shocked.
“Xander?” Dick asked, a heartbroken tone in his voice. Xan froze where he was and looked up at the family. He didn’t seem to be breathing as he nodded slowly. “Your alive,” he breathed out before making his way over and setting his hands on Xan’s shoulders. Dick started looking him over while the other two made their way over. He then pulled Xan in for a bone-crushing hug causing a surprise sound to leave Xan. “I’m so glad your alive,” he continued.
“Man, this is your surprise, Pixiepop?” Jason asked and Mari nodded with a smile. “They’re going to love it,” he said messing up both Xan’s and Mari’s hair.
“I hope so,” Mari said and Tim gave Mari a reassuring look.
“Mari, they are going to love this. Dont doubt yourself, you’ll see,” Tim said as the rest of the class left the plane.
“You got him?” Mari asked and the boys nodded as they followed everyone to baggage claim.
“Ya, just meet us at the precinct in 20 minutes. I wouldn’t want you to miss the surprise,” Dick replied and Mari smiled with a nod.
Mari-aculous @MDC_Designs
The BIG SURPRISE is in 20 minutes~!! Cant wait to see their faces!!! #soexcited #sosoon #almostthere #surprises
Dick @ FlyingGrayson
Theyre going to LOVE it! Be prepared for lots of hugs Mari!!!
Ok, so here it is!!! The next chap!!! So this was takin while to push out that I decided I wanted to give the reunion scene a proper thing by giving it its own chap. Next chap we will see the Grayson Reunion!!!!! I cant wait for you guys to see it!!! until next time!! ~Love Willa<3<3<3
Ok so here’s the next chap!! The MUCH AWAITED SHIP WILL SAIL!!! ( ;) ) Anyways, I won’t make you wait any longer, ENJOY!!!
“What did you want to talk to me about?” Mari asked with a tilt of her head. Seeing her do that, Damian had to glance away for a bit to keep himself from blushing which was weird for him.
He didn’t blush.
At least......
He didn’t before her.
“I....” he started but then trailed off. He was so used to knowing what to do. How to take someone down. How to outwit his opponent. But. he didn’t know what to do now. How could he? While Jon worked on his relations side with Mari, he didn’t learn how to deal with feelings. With a breath he decided being blunt would be best, nothing to hide and just tell her how he felt. And hope that she returns his feelings. Oh, this must be how Jon felt before he confessed to Chloe and Adrien, he realized, making a slight face unconsciously which had Mari looking at him concerned.
“Dami?” she asked softly and Damian realized she saw and that more than a minute had passed since he first uttered ‘I’.
“Yes, I need to tell you this. I’m just trying to figure out how to say it, is all,” he admitted and Mari nodded understanding. With a deep breath, he forged onward. “Marinette, I don’t know how or when, but you have invaded my thoughts for this past year without me even knowing it. I care very deeply for you. Would you be willing to go out on a date with me?” he asked, watching her face as different things flashed by as she processed what he said.
He likes me! He really does! They were right! God, Chloe was right. All this time? she thought, her mouth opening and closing a few times as it finally registered that this was real. She started nodding frantically with a big smile.
“I really like you as well, Dami! I was too scared to say something tho,” Mari admitted quickly, shutting her eyes a bit embarrassed. Damian smiled softly as he pulled Mari into a hug. Startling her from her thoughts was his soft laugh as she then wrapped her arms around him as well.
“How about tonight? You have the day off,” he said and Mari nodded. “Ok, I’ll pick you up at 6 then,” he whispered and Mari pulled back with a smile and stood on the tips of her toes to press a kiss to his cheek before pulling away with a breathless smile.
“Sounds perfect,” she whispered, trailing her hands to his and tangling their fingers together. Damian had a soft smile as he raised their conjoined hands up and pressed a kiss to her fingers. A blush dusted her cheeks, highlighting the sparse freckles she had over her cheeks and nose. Leaning her head against his arm, they walked back to the group, a dopey smile on her lips.
“Congrats Mari!” Lila said running over to hug Mari tightly as the others made their way over and congratulated them as well. “I’m so happy for you,” she continued and Mari smiled as she nodded agreement.
“I am too,” she said softly as her friends had soft smiles on their faces. “So, when are you going to ask out him?” Mari asked with a teasing tone causing her friend to blush. Damian chuckled softly from beside her.
“I assume you’re talking about Xan?” he asked and the group nodded as Lila squeaked and nodded. “Let me tell you this, you know what he’s been thru, at least part of it, you better not break his heart. Especially, if he decides to tell you more about what he has been thru. Got it?” Damian asked giving her a look. Lila swallowed the lump in her throat as she nodded understanding.
“O-ok. Promise,” she said softly and Damian gave a short nod at that.
“It’s getting close to lunch, is Xan available?” Mari asked looking over at Damian with a tilt of her head.
“I imagine he’s talking to someone we were both close to then right now. We can go see if he is available,” Damian said and the group nodded.
“Let’s go see. Where is he?” she asked as Damian started leading them out of the park.
“He’s at a store called Rose Petal’s Boutique talking with Rae, a woman from our past,” Damian replied and Mari nodded.
“Is it to help him heal?” Kim asked that time, knowing that sometimes talking to someone who’s had a similar experience can help.
“In a way, yes,” Damian started with a nod as they stopped at an intersection to wait for the light. “Fu helped him, but talking about it with someone who had something similar is better. Because then you know someone knows how you feel and sometimes able to offer insight to something you may not have realized,” he continued and Kim nodded agreement as they started walking once more.
“Hope this woman can help him, man,” Kim muttered softly as he returned the squeeze he felt Max give his hand.
“She can,” Damian assured as they got closer to the boutique. They soon reached it, the group looking at it with nods at the design. It was the typical design for most Gotham buildings, a few cracks here and there. But the sign was a vibrant white with the name of the boutique in a swirling deep red color like the Freedom Red Rose. Rose petals were scattered across the sign as if in a wind, a few interacting with the name as if connecting the letters.
A window display showed a few creations the boutique had but the inside was hidden from view by a divider. Etched around the edges of the glass was the same rose petal design. Damian opened the door, a bell chiming in response to the door swinging into the building. Mari and Damian entered the shop while the rest of them waited outside.
“Hello! Welcome to Rose Petal’s Boutique! How can I help you?” a woman asked moving toward them.
“I was hoping to speak to Rae, please. Is she in the back?” Damian asked and the woman nodded.
“Of course. Be warned she is talking to another person,” the woman warned and Damian nodded before leading Mari to the back. There he knocked once before pushing the door open. Sharp, deep green eyes looked over at them when the door opened. Her right nostril had a rose-gold colored piercing and the middle of her lip had a matching colored ring going thru it. Her hair was pulled back into a messy pony-tail with a rose clip holding back some of her bangs. A smile painted her lips when she realized who it was. “Damian. It’s so good to see you again,” she greeted happily pulling him into a brief hug before looking over at Mari. “Who’s this?” she asked, smiling softly at seeing the two glance at each other before blushing.
“This is Marinette, Rae. The girl I was telling you about,” he said and Rae smiled as she pulled Mari into a hug.
“Hello, Marinette. It’s nice to meet you. Damian and Xan talk a lot about you,” Rae said smiling teasingly as Xan rolled his eyes.
“I don’t think I should be included since well, I just talked about her,” he pointed out and Rae waved her hand at that.
“No matter. Now, what can I do for you two?”
“We came by to see if Xan, and you, would like to go get some lunch with Mari and her friends,” Damian said as Mari nodded eagerly and Rae smiled softly at that, sending Damian a subtle look that Mari missed but Xan caught as Damian looked away, the faintest of blushes on his cheeks.
“I’d love to go, but after my shift, I need to head over to my restaurant to speak with the builders. I don’t get a lunch break, sorry,” Rae said and Damian nodded, looking over at Xan.
“I’d like that,” Xan said moving from his spot. As they headed into the main shop area Rae stopped them.
“I fully expect to see you and all your friends at the grand opening of Janat Al'Amal next week,” she said and the group nodded.
“I’ll even bring Jason with, I’m sure he’d enjoy your food,” Damian said and Rae chuckled with a shake of her head.
“Don’t hesitate to visit!” Rae called out one last time before the closed behind them. Damian raised a hand in acknowledgment.
“Xan!” Lila beamed as she made her way over to him and hugged him in greeting. Xan had a soft smile on his lips as he hugged Lila back before greeting the others with either hugs or handshakes.
“So, where are we off too?” Xan asked looking between everyone.
“How about a cafe?” Mari suggested and the group nodded.
“Sounds perfect,” Damian replied, squeezing her hand before leading them to a cafe nearby.
“Xan....I think we have some stuff that we should talk about,” Lila whispered looking up at Xan, she may have grown a bit, but she still had to crane to look. Xan tilted his head, a bit of dread filling him but he nodded. They hadn’t talked much about what she heard at the reunion between him and his sisters. They should have, but he could admit he didn’t want to.
Looks like there’s no avoiding it, he thought before nodding. “Ok, when we order our drinks and something to eat we’ll talk,” he replied just as softly. Damian and Mari glanced back to look at them before looking ahead once more. Mari rested her head against Damian’s arm once more, squeezing his hand.
“You think everything will go well?” she asked and the softest hums left Damian as he thought about it.
“From what I’ve seen of Lila, I think they’ll end up fine,” he replied softly after a bit and she nodded agreement.
“I hope so,” she agreed softly. They soon reached the cafe in question and got in line. When all the orders were made and paid for- Damian sneakily paid for all the drinks much to her friends, mostly Jon’s, annoyance, and the barista’s joy as she giggled -they scattered around the shop. Nino and Sabrina found a couch to chat and was joined by Chloe, Adrien, and Jon. Kim and Max were nearby at a table.
Damian and Mari were a bit farther from them at a table for two. Mari was smiling shyly at Damian as they talked about their date that night.
Xan smiled as he pulled Lila’s chair out for her and pushed it in when she sat down. “Thank you Xan,” Lila said with a small smile as Xan picked up their orders and brought them over before sitting down across from her. They were a good distance away from the others as well. He drummed his fingers along his cup as he cupped it between his hands. He was looking down at it, taking a breath before looking up at Lila once more. She could only watch as concern, nerves, worry -whatever you would call it- float around in his eyes. Such a gorgeous color, there shouldn’t be any room in those silver eyes for anything but joy, she thought to herself.
“S-so what did you want to talk about?” he asked nervously, pulling Lila out of her thoughts. As his fingers drumming increased she reached a hand over the table and covered his hand, slowly pulling it from the cup to hold it.
“Well......I think there are a few things we need to talk about,” she said slowly and Xan nodded at that.
“I’m so sorry you had to hear that. I didn’t-no-I wasn’t-” he groaned as he tried finding the correct words. “I didn’t plan on you finding out,” he got out and Lila squeezed his hand.
“Where you ever gong to tell me? I care about, Xander. A lot, and I want you to feel safe around me to tell me things. I want to help you in any way I can,” Lila replied and Xan nodded at that slowly.
“I wasn’t sure how you take it. Only Fu, Damian, and Jason really know what I went thru. I left a ton out when I told Als and Lana. I didn’t want to lose you....because of my past,” he whispered looking down into his cup before feeling Lila cupping his hand in both of hers. He looked up to see her eyes burning with a determination, making her green eyes sparkle.
“You could never lose me, Xan. You don’t have to tell me everything, I get that this was a terrible thing to happen. I could never blame you for something you couldn’t control. You did what you did to survive after being taken. All I care about is you, right here, right now. Where you’re safe and sound and breathing. I could never fault you for doing something that ensured you lived another day,” she said, squeezing his hand with every word she put stress on. A water smile decorated his lips at hearing her speech. Pulling his hand from his cup he wiped away the tears that threatened to fall as relief coursed thru him.
“Thank you,” he whispered between chuckles that escaped him. She squeezed his hand at that, happy to hear him chuckling. “I was terrified this would end with you declaring us not friends anymore.”
“That could never happen,” Lila whispered, giving him the softest smiles that he returned when he finally got himself under control.
“So, what else was it that we needed to talk about?” he asked softly and Lila bit her lip.
She wasn’t ready.
Nope.
Nada.
But could she afford to wait?
No.
If she didn’t do this now, she was worried she’d never do it. So, might as well rip the bandaid off.
“Xander....I really like you. I have for a while now. This isn’t how you’d imagine a confession, I bet. But I had to say it. I really like you and would love to go out on a date with you,” Lila said glancing thru her lashes to look at Xan’s face. Xan was looking at her a bit shocked and surprised.
She was right.
He did not expect that.
But as the shock and surprise faded, he smiled softly at her and covered one of her hands with his own. He then squeezed them prompting her to look up. “I really like you too. How about Saturday night?”
That had Lila shocked but she then beamed at him. “Saturday!” she agreed, not seeing their friends smiling over at them happily.
Almost There @proudgothamite
Well, I’ll be doing something I haven’t done in a long time. You’ll get to see it soon #oldhobby #herewego #hopethiswillbefun
Ok, so here’s the next chap!! Man, this was *quicker* than old updates lol. Ok, so, I’ll be starting online classes soon *cough whispers* n maybe moving soon again *cough*, so updates will be WEIRD. I’m givni this warnin since one of my classes game us the warning that we need to go to LIBRARIES for a few assignments......and that some(all apparently) will need at least a couple of weeks to do? So ya......that happened...and that was only ONE of my classes......so I guess.....wish me luck? Until next time!! -Love Willa<3<3<3
Ok, so here’s the next chap for the fic!! This is going surprisingly quickly considering I have classes. Any delays that happen now r due to my sisters cat comin over and cuddling me preventin me from workin lol. Lol. Anyways, here’s the next chap, I do hope you enjoy this next chap!
“Ok, so you really do know more about this….I thought Xan was bluffing about at least Mari knowing,” Lana said looking at the two in front of her in shock. Damian had put on the mask he wore as Robin and showed her the weapons he carried on his personal 24/7. Mari just transformed into Ladybug and then transformed. “But how come you revealed your identities to me?” she asked figuring Xan only knew from an accident or they told him when he doubted they could help him from what happened(it was easy to guess Damian before he told him YES he was Robin, and Ladybug ya, probably an accident but purposeful).
The two shared a look before looking at her once more. “Well, we can see that your not going to stop training to do what Damian and I do. So we might as well help you. Both in and out of the uniform. I’ll help you two get the right items for your suits,” Mari said smiling gently at Lana which she returned. Damian clapped Xan on the shoulder and nodded.
“Not to mention, what you’re planning is quite noble. It would help us so that we can focus on gangs and the big boys when they escape,” Damian added and the two nodded again.
“Thank you for agreeing. I just couldn’t stand watching someone getting hurt and not being able to do anything. I won’t let anyone else go throu what I did,” Lana said giving a slight nod as the three shared scowls at the thought. Even though it all happened when they were young, they still hated not being able to help. Granted tho, Damian also knew he would have probably killed the man given a chance, so it was smart to not let him out.
“With our help, you’ll be able to do just that. And you’ll be able to call on one of us should you need help,” Damian added and once more, Lana sent him a thankful smile.
“Now, Xan why don’t you give me an idea of what you’re wanting to use when you go out and I’ll be able to get an idea of what fabric will work best,” Mari said and Xan nodded as they went to the table in Lana’s apartment. Cocoa rubbed herself against their legs before going to play with them or nuzzling their feet. Damian and Lana cleared an area out(granted that didn't mean much since she didn’t own lots of things) and got into fighting stances.
~~~~~~~~~~~~(ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧~~~~~~~~~~~~
Mari beamed at the two as Damian took her back to the hotel. They spent a good two hours with Lana and Xan, each sparring against Damian at first while the other talked to Mari. In Mari’s sketchbook, she had a good idea about what they were thinking of and was planning on looking into many different fabrics that would work.
But that would be later.
Right now, she had to get back to Lila and help her plan what to wear for her date tomorrow.
She was beyond lucky that Gotham Academy was letting them do school work online for a week to get used to it before the semester started up again in September, a good couple of months away.
She smiled softly over at Damian as she took his hand into hers and gave it a squeeze as she leaned her head against his shoulder. “That was pretty sweet of you to help Lana, and Xan but he’s more prepared than her,” she said as they walked down the sidewalk and Damian gave a one-shoulder shrug.
“It was just the smart thing to do. Xan explained what was going on and I simply agreed to make sure they don’t get hurt. It’s obvious she would have gone out with or without our help. So, to make it easier, might as well help,” he replied looking forward even as he felt Mari squeeze his hand again.
“Still,” she hummed out. They walked in silence for some time. When her hotel came into view, she bit her lip. “Are you going to tell B?” That had Damian looking down at her before he looked straight ahead in thought.
“No,” he spoke after a minute, “It’s not my place to tell him. He won’t enjoy having two more vigilantes running around, but as long as they leave the big bads to us, he’ll leave them be. Only they can tell B. I won’t break their trusts,” he replied with a decisive nod.
“Good. They’ll appreciate that,” she said squeezing his hand as they paused outside the hotel.
“What about Lila?”
“I’ll tell her about myself when Hawkmoth is defeated-” she started with a sigh but was interrupted by her phone beeping. She pulled it out and scowled at seeing the headline. “Akuma,” she muttered and Damian nodded, glad to have brought his gear.
“First our date, and now the conversation. He has great timing,” Damian deadpanned. Mari giggled at that but soon grabbed his hand and ran into the hotel and up the stairs. Adrien appeared with Nino and she nodded.
“Figured you could use my help,” Nino said.
“That we will. Get to Fu’s shop to get his miraculous and meet us at the Seine,” Mari said as Mari and Adrien transformed. Mari then took out Kalki and merged while Damian quickly threw his gear on, managing to get the last piece on right as Mari opened the portal to Paris that landed halfway between Fu’s place and the Akuma in an alley.
~~~~~~~~~~~~(ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧~~~~~~~~~~~~
The four groaned out as they leaned against the walls of the stairwell. The battle was quick but painful. Mari and Adrien’s transformation fell and they shared a weak ‘pound it’. Nino was a better off, smiling at the two as he rubbed his wrist. The Turtle miraculous was back with Fu, she was glad that Nino was able to do that quickly in the two minutes they had left before de-transforming.
“Ok, now I really need to get back to Lila. She’s probably freaking out about her date tomorrow,” Mari said and the group nodded.
“I’ll join you, Angel,” Damian said when he finished getting out of the Robin suit. Mari smiled at him as they held hands and followed behind Adrien and Nino as they talked about what happened in the morning before the Akuma attack. Reaching their rooms, the duo’s separated, Adrien going to his and Nino’s room, and Mari and Damian heading to her room. Opening the door revealed Lila pacing and muttering to herself. On her bed were a few outfit options, and the closet looked messy, quite different than the orderly fashion she usually had it in.
“Whoa, Lila, are you ok?” Mari asked, startling the girl from her thoughts.
“Mari! No, I’m not! I’m panicking!” Lila said flinging herself over to Mari. Mari caught her easily and hugged her before pulling back to hold her hands.
“Don’t worry. Everything will go well. He really cares about you, Lila. Even Damian, who is quite frankly, bad at emotions some days, can see it,” she said, ignoring the offended look Damian was sending her. But it had the desired results.
Lila giggled.
Mari smiled at her friend as she then pulled her to the bed with Damian trailing behind them. “Ok, Damian, do you have any idea about what Xan would do for their date?” Mari asked and Damian hummed as he thought about the different things Xan appreciates.
“What time are you two going out?” he asked and Lila hummed.
“We didn’t set an exact time, but it’s going to be past evening,” she replied and Damian nodded.
“Ok, I can think of a couple things you would do. He’s probably going to take you to his favorite park here. Either before or after he’ll probably take you to a place you both enjoy, like a cafe, or a nice sit-down place,” Damian replied after a bit and Mari started nodding along.
“Ok, so you’ll probably want to dress warm. It can get pretty cold at night,” Mari said looking through the options and immediately putting back anything that was short and pulling out some longer items. “Did you want to wear a dress or are you fine with pants?” she asked, turning to her friend who bit her lip.
“I’m fine with whatever,” Lila replied and Mari nodded. After a bit, she put together three outfits. The first consisted of thick black leggings, a deep gray-blue sweater that went past her mid-thigh with tied bows at the wrists, and red combat boots and newspaper cap. The second one was a black tank top with a white oversized jacket, black shorts with thigh high tie up boots, The final one was a maxi-dress that practically covered her feet when she wore heels, it was a nice light purple with lavender and wild flowers going up from the bottom hem. Around the waist line was a thin black belt paired with 2 inch black sandal wedges.
“Ok, here are three options that would work. For the dress just wear some leggings underneath for more warmth,” Mari said and Lila beamed as she looked at the different options.
“Thank you Mari! And thank you Damian,” Lila said pulling her friend into a tight hug and just sending Damian a smile.
~~~~~~~~~~~~(ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧~~~~~~~~~~~~
Mari: got the samples. ill bring them over tom
Lana: thank you Mari! your the best!!
Xan: cool. see ya in the morning
Mari: see ya then!
Mari smiled as she walked back from the fabric store with the samples in hand. Tikki and Kalki pressed against her thigh throu her purse. She smiled softly as she patted the purse and stopped by a bakery to get some cookies and tea. At the counter she wrapped the cookies up with a few sugar cubes and put them into her purse so that they could snack on them as she walked back to WE to help Tim out a bit for a few hours.
Tired @prouodgothamite
Here we go! I’m starting a How-To channel explaining how to do things in Figure/Ice Skating and Parkour. My therapist suggested it. I hope you guys enjoy it #iceskating #parkour #howto #explaining #videos *youtube link showing the thumbnail of Lana in ice skating gear on the ice with ‘How To Do A Toe Loop’ next to her*
Ok, so here’s the next chap! Sorry it’s a bit short. When I was writing it, two of my sisters' cats, Bonito and Snowflake(but she’s named Sunflower but I like my name for her), kept jumping onto me to cuddle which is adorable. But bad for me since I am allergic to them. So that had me out all day yesterday since I could barely think. I kept having to blow my nose, my eyes were irritated 90% of the time even thou I had taken both my allergy meds n antihistamine(spelling what?) eye drops. And then I got a headache. So ya, all that just threw what I had planned out the window and I couldn’t catch it. So ya. But anyways, I hope you enjoyed this chap. I’m wanting to write some more joker n mari buddy fics so please leave a PROMPT(joker will be ooc, cause thats the only way im doin buddies joker n mari(excludin that new fic i put where mari snapped)). Until next time!! -Love Willa<3<3<3
AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/20887313/chapters/60851917
Taglist: @bluesimani if ya wanna be tagged just tell me!!
So here’s the Grayson Reunion!! So i would have gotten it out sooner but i wanted to write some other things. One of them i just gave up trying to finish it before this one. Its a new ‘Little Mermaid’ au. We’ll see how/when it comes out! Anyways, I hope you enjoy this new chap!!!!
Alya sighed as her phone started ringing once more. She shook her head as she answered the phone. “What is it now?” she asked, holding the phone to her ear with her shoulder as she went back to typing on her computer. “Hello?” she asked when no one said anything. “Dick, if this is some sort of prank, its not very good,” she said.
A soft crying entered her ear and it got louder by the second. Seeming to go from the phone to behind her. “Dick?” she asked softly and turned around at hearing gasps. She turned around and sucked in a breath, her phone clattering to the ground beside her. “X-Xan?” she gasped out, her hands going to cover her mouth as tears started forming in her eyes.
Standing feet from her, was Xan, tears falling down his cheeks as he looked at her. Behind him was Dick and his brothers along with Mari and a couple of friends. “A-als,” he gasped out, taking a hesitant step toward her.
“Xan!” She rushed over to him as he rushed over to her. He collapsed into her arms and started crying into her shoulder as she gripped the back of his shirt tightly. “X-Xan! I-I thought-I thought you-you were dead,” she gasped out, her knees gave out and the two fell to their knees sobbing. Everyone was quiet around them, some tearing up themselves as they watched.
“I-I was,” he croaked out. “I-I was-so-I was so scared-that-that you were going-going to be upset-or-or something,” he gasped out and felt Alya shaking her head against his shoulder as she cried.
“N-no! I could-never! I’d never be angry-or-or upset with you,” Alya replied into his shoulder. “B-but how did?” she asked, pulling back to look him in the eyes while one hand wiped away her tears.
“I-later,” he said and she nodded, cupping his face in her hands, wiping away his tears before pulling him in again for a hug.
“I’m just glad your safe now,” she whispered, holding him close.
“Hey Als, there are a couple of people here that you need to thank,” Dick called and Alya pulled back and tilted her head at Dick.
“Who?” she asked and Dick placed a hand on both Damian’s and Mari’s shoulders and gently pushed them forward.
“These two. They were the ones that brought him home to you safely,” he said and Mari smiled shyly while Damian looked a bit uncomfortable with it but nodded to her. Alya stumbled to her feet and made her way over to the two and pulled them into a hug.
“Thank you,” she breathed out as she held them tightly. Mari responded to the hug immediately and returned it. Damian was slow to respond and a watery laugh left Alya at how awkward the hug Damian gave was. She pulled back and patted Damian’s shoulder reliving him of giving a hug. “Thank you guys, seriously. This is the best surprise I could ask for.”
“You’re welcome, Alya,” Mari said beaming at her as Xan finally stood up after taking a moment, an officer helping him with tissues. Xan stood behind Alya and patted her shoulder. “Sorry to cut this short. But, we still have one other person to surprise,” she said and Alya nodded.
“Of course, of course. Go surprise Lana with the best surprise ever. But before you leave, can I quickly ask, who is this?” she asked looking at the italian with Mari that had her hair pulled back in a hald ponytail that went into a braid, on the sides of her face, she had some hair in messy loose tails, with blunt bangs. The girl in question waved shyly as she stepped forward.
“Hey, I’m a friend of Mari’s and Xan’s. Name’s Lila,” she introduced and Alya nodded and shook her hand.
“Nice to meet you, Lila,” she said with a soft smile before leaning in close. “You better treat Xan right, otherwise there will be words,” she whispered pulling back with a pleasant smile. Lila meanwhile had a blush on her cheeks as she nodded to her words, figuring she did not want to see what happens if she breaks Xan’s heart. That is if she started dating Xan to even have that risk. Ya, she first had to start dating Xan.
“See you later, Alya!” Mari called happily as the small group then headed toward the door.
“Grayson!” Lingo called out and Alya turned to their superior.
“Yes, Captain Lingo?” Alya asked and Lingo glared at her.
“Not you, Grayson, the other one. Where are you going? You need to get back to work,” he called and Dick winced.
“Sorry, sir. But I asked ahead of time to have the rest of the day off,” he said.
“Not with me. Get your butt back in here we have work to do,” he said and Dick sighed as he moved away from the group.
“Sorry, Mini D. I’ll see you tonight,” Dick said softly, patting Damian’s shoulder.
“But sir,” Alya started and Lingo turned to glare at her.
“No, buts, Detective,” he said and Alya gnashed her teeth together as she took a deep breath.
“No, sir. I won’t step down. He went to Commissioner Gordon and asked for the rest of today off to spend time with his little brother who returned from a trip out of the country. He was granted that by Commissioner Gordon, and you denying that is undermining the Commissioner. I don’t think the Commissioner will enjoy hearing that Captain,” she said glaring at Lingo in return. “So I suggest, Captain,” she had venom dripping from her lips as she said his title, “that you allow Dick to continue his requested day off unless you want Gordon to hear about this,” she finished and Lingo nodded. A smirk painted her lips as Dick beamed at her, pulling her into a hug.
“You’re the best Als,” he whispered before bounding out of the precinct. The others followed behind him quickly, nodding to Alya who smiled at them as Lingo ran back to his office.
“That man is horrid,” Sarah said and Alya had to nod agreement.
“Ya, makes me regret turning down the position while back,” she said and Sarah looked at her confused.
“You did the test?”
“Ya, got into the top 5%. But I declined the position. Should have accepted, then we wouldn’t have to deal with him,” she replied quietly with a sigh. “But that’s in the past. Get back to work.” With that, Alya went back to her desk and picked up her discarded phone and went back to work after sending Dick a text.
Alya: Lana should be on her lunch break by the time you get there. So go to the cafeteria
Dick: Got it! Thanks again!
Alya: np
~~~~~~~~~~~~(ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧~~~~~~~~~~~~
Lana set her plate down with a sigh. She was excited to go home after she ate lunch. Usually, she ate at home, but after that test, she needed the comfort of a crappy slice school pizza and a chocolate bar. The steady hum over the cafeteria of students talking quietly went silent and Lana started looking around wondering what caused it. Please no villain attack, she thought as she realized everyone was looking toward her, the door behind her. She turned in her seat and a look of shock crossed her face.
Her chair scrapping against the tile echoed throughout the room as she stood up. Tears started gathering in her eyes as she covered her mouth with a hand. Her other hand raised up shakily. “X-Xan?” she called out softly, her voice cracking. Xan was nodding frantically in the door as Damian and the others stayed outside, letting the moment happen.
“I-its really me,” he whispered, tears having never stopped falling even as he tried wiping them away. A gasped out sob left her as she stumbled toward him. He saw as her knees gave out and caught her in a hug. A hug that returned tightly as they fell to the floor crying. Nothing could leave Lana besides sobs as she held him close.
As the two hugged each other, they didn’t hear the whispers springing up. The others watching tho, they could hear and looked at them. Most were happy that Xan was back but they were wary. It was a fair concern but they hoped that wouldn’t be a problem. Lana’s sobs slowly quieted down so she was only breathing heavily as she pulled back, wiping away the tears that Xan shed while he did the same for her.
“I-I’m so glad your ok,” she whispered and Xan gave a small nod.
“Hey,” Dick called softly, crouching down next to them, placing a hand on each of their shoulders. “Why don’t we head back to your place, Lana,” he said and she nodded.
“O-of course, let me just,” she trailed off and smiled softly when she saw that Jason had picked up her bag with Tim grabbing her sad excuse of a lunch into a container. “Thanks,” she whispered as Xan then helped her up and they walked to the cars. “You don’t need your cars.”
A couple looked confused while the others had ‘Oh duh’ looks. She smiled softly as she quietly told Xan about some things that have gone on while he was away as they walked to the apartment complex across from the college. That had Lila and Adrien also having the ‘oh’ face as they realized why the cars would be redundant.
She unlocked the door for them and crouched down immediately. Everyone but Dick looked confused at that before a small brown tabby ran straight into her arms. Soft coos left Lana as she stood up and walked into the apartment and the others followed behind. “This is Cocoa, Alya adopted her for me a month ago,” she introduced and sat down. Xan sat down next to her on the couch as Tim handed her the container of her lunch. She nodded to him in thanks and started eating it, knowing Xan had something to get off his chest.
~~~~~~~~~~~~(ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧~~~~~~~~~~~~
By the end of it, Lana was hugging Xan close once more. He didn’t tell her everything. Didn’t tell her how he suffered. How he was killed so many times. Why Joker attacked and killed him. He didn’t think he’d ever tell her. He gasped softly against her shoulder.
“I’m so sorry you had to face that,” Lana whispered softly, hugging him tightly while Lila held Mari’s and Damian’s hands tightly as she processed what she heard. She barely breathed as she watched the two interact. She couldnt stop herself anymore and rushed over and hugged Xan’s back tightly with a gasp. Tensed up at that, and glanced down to see Lila’s ars around him.
Oh ya, she was here, he realized with a grimace, probably should have given her a warning or something. Was not planning on telling her so soon. But oh well. He moved a hand down and gave Lila’s hand a squeeze.
“It’s ok. Mari’s grandpa helped me so much. It doesn’t bother me much anymore,” he whispered and Lana pulled back with a hum and cupped Xan’s cheek.
“That may be, I’m still allowed to say sorry you had to go through that,” she replied and Xan nodded slowly.
If only you knew the real truth. How broken would you be then? Possibly too broken. She can’t ever know, he thought sadly, keeping back the tears with a soft sigh and nod to her answer. While tears still pooled in his eyes, she didn’t comment on them.
“We should get Mari and the others back,” Damian said quietly and the two nodded understanding. With a little coercion, Lila pulled away and was led away by Mari and Adrien with Damian and his brothers trailing behind them.
~~~~~~~~~~~~(ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dick looked at his phone a bit shocked. Babs looked over at him and watched as his face went from curious to a soft and sad look. “Sorry,” he said getting up from the table to answer his phone. “Hey-’
“Dick, I-I don’t know what to do. He-he shouldn’t have had to go thru that! He should have had a normal childhood! Worrying about grades! If the girl he had a crush on liked him back! Annoying his older sisters! Practicing to get his driver’s license! Not this! I know that Damian faced the same, but, hearing that it happened to Xan! God! How do you react? What do you do?! I need help Dick, please. Xan doesn’t act like it’s hurting him anymore but I just-how do-what do I do?” Alya spoke quickly, her voice cracking as she cried. She couldn’t believe everything Xan went thru. He didn’t tell her everything but told her more than Lana when she left the room. And he only did that she told him she knew Damian’s past and everything about his family. Something Damian told him the basics of when they were talking in Mari’s room.
“Hey, it’s ok, Als. Take a deep breath in now, ok thats it. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8. Now exhale, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8. That’s it, in now. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8. Out, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8,” Dick said counting out the breaths as Alya did them with gasps. He could admit, it shocked him to hear Alya so distraught and upset. He hasn’t seen her cry like that since Xan first disappeared. She was usually so calm and sure minded that seeing her unravel was offputting. She didn’t even cry when she broke up with Cole. granted, that was a mutual thing realizing they were better friends, but still, she hadn’t reacted much to it. When he was confident she was calm, he stopped counting, which had gone on for quite a bit. “There, ok. I know this isn’t what you want to hear, but...you have to let him come to you. I know that sucks, that you want to help immediately, but you can’t Als. I’m sorry but you can’t. You need to trust Xan. Ya, he was gone for 8 years. But, he was with Fu for a year. He’s helped Xan heal so much so that he could come home without worrying about messing anything up while here. You just gotta let him know that if he ever needs you, that you’ll be there for him. That’s all you can do. It’s what I did for Damian, it’s what you’ll have to do for Xan.” Alya sniffled over the line, nodding along to what he was saying as she wiped away the remaining tears.
“T-thanks Dick. I-I’ll do that. God, why is this so hard?” she said with a ragged breath.
“Who knows, Als. It just is. But I’ll be here for you whenever you need me, you got that?” he asked and a soft, watery giggle left Alya.
“Ya, I know that. Seriously, thank you, Dick. You’re the best,” she whispered quietly as she finally wiped away all the tears.
“I know, but why don’t you go back and hang with Xan. I bet he really wants to spend every second he can get with you.”
“I will. I just needed to get some advice while they looked for a movie. See you at work tomorrow.”
“See you then,” Dick replied with a smile as he ended the call. He turned back to Babs and saw the slight frown on her lips. “What’s wrong?” he asked softly.
“Should you really be promising that you’ll be there for Alya whenever she needs you? You know you can’t promise that,” Babs said and Dick nodded slowly.
“I know that. And Alya knows that as well. She knows that I’ll do what I can when I’m available. But why does that bug you?” he asked and Babs looked away from him. He was glad that the others were in the den right now. He did not want them to hear this apparent disagreement.
“Well, it seems that your willing to do anything for her. I get that she’s your partner at the precinct and close friends. She’s the only one I trust to keep your butt safe. But, this just seems a bit extreme. Would you do this for any other close friend of yours?” Babs asked seriously and Dick hummed softly and he crouched down in front of her and placed a hand on her knee.
“I would. And you know that. Her being my precinct partner changes nothing. It just means we’ve helped each other more than some of my other coworker friends. But I would go out of my way for each of them,” he replied and Babs looked down at that.
“I don’t know. It seems like this is more than just helping out a friend. You seem to be doing more for her than anyone else. I need you to really look at yourself and ask if she’s just a friend,” Babs said with a sigh. She rolled back away from Dick and started toward the deck. She wasn’t blind, she could tell there was something between them. Possibly more. It hurt, but she also knew they were drifting away slowly.
She wanted to see if they could fix it.
But she could see that they wouldn’t.
It hurt, but, not as much as she thought it would.
As long as they were both happy.
Mari-aculous @MDC_Designs
The surprise went well!! I’m glad to have made their days so great!! #specialmoments #reunion #surprises *two pics. First is of Alya and Xan hugging on the precincts floor crying. Second is of Lana and Xan hugging on a cafeteria floor crying*
Im not crying @actingfordays
It was so sweet but jesus im still crying #notcool #crying #toosweet #sosad
Dick @FlyingGrayson
It was amazing, your so great Mari. Als may have said it in few words, but she’s very grateful to what you did #sweetangel #sunshinechild #toosweetforus
Mari-aculous @MDC_Designs
I know Dick, I know. I’m glad to help!
Ok, so here it is!! I had fun writing this, I also cried a bit from emotions. Like, this reunion was so sweet to me. I hope you thought so too. I hope you enjoyed it. Until next time!!! -Love Willa<3<3<3
Ok so here’s the next chap!! Date night for Daminette and...i still dont got a ship name for em...Dick/Alya/Xavier. Please help my sad ass out n suggest some possible ship names for em. Could be their names mashed together like daminette or even somethin bout personality or jobs. Idk, just somethin that fits em n doesn’t sound weird. Thank you very much. Anyways, it’s the date chap!! Next chap, idk maybe it’ll be xanila(Xan/Lila does that sound fine or ew?), or it could be a battle....ehehe or somethin else~. Ok, enjoy!
Alya giggled as she took the offered rose from Dick. “How long have you had this?” she asked with a tilt of her head as the officers around them cooed.
“I ordered it at lunch and had Sarah pick it up for me on her way back from her break an hour ago,” Dick replied with a soft smile as he took Alya’s other hand as she returned the smile.
“Why not wait to get it for when you pick me up after I get changed? While sweet, I’d rather not go out all grimy from a day of hard work,” she said and Dick gave a small shrug as he gave her hand a squeeze.
“Maybe I wanted to give it to you before we part?” he asked with his signature charming smile on his lips as he watched a faint blush decorate her cheeks.
“Oh! God, I forgot how cheesy you could be,” she said as Dick moved his other hand to push a strand of her hair behind her ear.
“Only for you and Xavier,” he whispered with a smile as she turned her face away from Dick because she knew she’d be blushing harder if she was looking at him.
“We should get going,” she mumbled and he nodded agreement.
“Yes, lets,” he agreed, leading her out of the precinct, waving to their coworker friends.
“Go get it, Alya!” one shouted causing Alya to laugh while her blush deepened knowing exactly what they meant.
“Maybe after the next date!” she shouted back before the doors closed behind them. Dick chuckled softly next to her as they reached her car.
“See you in an hour,” Dick whispered raising her hand to his lips to place a kiss onto her fingers.
“An hour,” she agreed, squeezing his hand before letting go and slipping into her car as he then held the door open. She smiled softly at him as he closed the door for her. Giving one last wave she left the precinct and he went to his own car to head home to get ready for his date. Once he was home, he ran past his brothers to clean up and put on a blue button-up and black pants. As he walked down the stairs he rolled the sleeves up to his elbows.
“Lookin spiffy Dickie boy. Got a hot date?” Jason asked with a smirk and Dick rolled his eyes.
“Yes, I do. Two hot dates even,” he said with a smirk, and that had Jason pausing.
“Damn, you actually asked them out. I’d have thought it’d take longer,” Jason said, causing Dick to once more roll his eyes.
“Har har har. I’m off now, hopefully, I’ll be able to beat rush hour. Go tease Damian for me,” Dick said grabbing his keys and Jason smirked as he started turning around.
“Not on your life, Todd!” Damian yelled out as his voice echoed thru the manor before it disappeared.
“Damian is leaving as well, Master Jason,” Alfred said and Jason turned to find Dick already out of the manor as well and frowned. “Please fetch Master Tim from work if he’s not back by 7,” Alfred said and Jason nodded. Getting the nod, Alfred turned around to continue what he was doing. The drive to Xavier’s home was quick. Xavier waved as he made his way to the car and slipped into the passenger seat, giving Dick a sweet smile. Dick returned the sweet smile as he looked over Xavier who seemed to be in his usual attire of a button-up shirt(a deep ocean blue instead of the white he wore at work), black pants, and his usual bowtie in a deep green that went well with the blue shirt.
“Hey. You look amazing, Dick,” Xavier whispered, taking Dick’s hand into his to give it a squeeze before they pulled away from the apartment complex.
“Hey, you look great yourself, Xavier. How’s your family?” Dick asked as they started toward Alya’s apartment.
“Melody is done with everyone at the hotel and the dance company is not appreciating her busy schedule. However, for mum, everything is fairly smooth sailing at the boutique. How are your brothers?” Xavier asked looking over at Dick, watching as the flickering on street lamps light up his face.
“Lovable pain in the asses. Jason gets a kick when he has to pull someone from their work, Tim gets distracted by his work so he’s the recipient of that. Damian is actually going out on a date with the girl he’s been crushing on for a while now. Duke is finally getting back tomorrow at some point, it really depends on how many stops the buses make. Steph and Cass. We have no idea when they’ll get back but they said things are going well over there so here’s to hoping,” Dick explained with a chuckle that Xavier shared.
“Tim is co-CEO of WE right?”
“Yes, why?” Dick tilted his head curiously at the question while Xavier chuckled.
“Melody said she had to go talk to CEO Tim about some things the board order her hotel have done since her GM is hiding from doing it even thou she’s not the most qualified too,” Xavier explained and Dick nodded at that.
“Ah, lazy people. But knowing Tim, hearing what’s wrong he’ll try fixing those mistakes,” Dick replied and Xavier nodded agreement from what he'd seen of Tim. They soon reached Alya’s apartment complex and watched with smiles as Alya seemed to be telling Xan something before hugging him and heading out. “Wow,” was all that left the two as they took in Alya wearing a fit and flare deep purple dress. A slim black belt around her waist covering the seam at the waist. She kept on her studs from work and had a black string necklace tied in a bow around her neck. She kept her makeup much the same with only eyeliner and pink lipstick. Her hair was braided and tied with a black ribbon and on her feet were small black, kitten wedges.
“Hi,” she whispered shyly when Xavier slipped from the car and held the door open for her so she could take the passenger seat. “You look great. You kept on your bow tie,” she said moving to straighten the bow tie since it moved since he left his apartment.
“Obviously, they’re part of the package. And may I say, you look lovely,” Xavier said, causing a faint blush to dust her cheeks when she smiled at him and squeezed his hand before he closed the door.
“Xavier’s correct, you look beautiful,” Dick said causing her blush to deepen. She was used to the precinct being silly what with complimenting everyone, especially her after she dressed like a Greek Goddess for Dick’s Halloween party for their coworkers(she couldn’t even remember who she dressed as, Dick remembers tho). She would have thought that conversation would have stopped since it’s been at least a couple of years. But alas. But hearing her dates say it, that was different than a friend.
“You two look quite handsome yourself,” Alya replied, happy to see faint blushes on their faces as well.
“I have a feeling, this will go well,” Dick said as they started toward the restaurant Dick got reservations for.
~~~~~~~~~~~~(ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧~~~~~~~~~~~~
Damian had a small smile on his lips as he waited for Mari to come down. He glanced at his watch, pleased to see they had some time still before it was time for their reservation.
Lila smiled at Mari as the girl twitched beside her in the elevator. “Everything will be fine, Mari. You look amazing! That dress you made is amazing, it will knock his socks off. He clearly really likes you, I doubt you could do anything to make him change his mind, ok?” Lila asked and Mari nodded. She rubbed her hands down the red spaghetti-strapped dress, along the hemline were hidden ladybugs. Around her waist was a corset-like lace up belt that clipped together in the back, around the ribbon lace-up was black floral lace with hidden ladybugs. She left her purse in the room but Tikki and Kalki(along with Kalki’s glasses) were in her dress’s hidden pockets. She had a cropped black jacket over the dress with the lining inside red. She had on simple blac, kitten heels.
Mari gave her friend a small smile. ”Thanks, Lila. And tomorrow, I’ll help you prepare for your date with Xan on Saturday,” Mari said and Lila nodded agreement as they reached the lobby.
“Ok, see you later. Don’t stay out too late. Have fun,” Lila said, pulling the girl into a hug. Mari returned the hug before pulling away and leaving the elevator. With one last wave, Mari went throu the swinging door and left the hotel with a smile.
“Hi, Dami,” Mari greeted shyly as she reached Damian’s car. Damian was leaning against the car and smiled at Mari.
“Hello, Angel. May I say you look gorgeous,” he said, taking one of her hands into his and raising it to his lips to press a kiss to her hand. Mari smiled softly at that as she blushed.
“As long as I can return the sentiment. You look quite dashing,” she said and Damian smiled as he opened the door for her. When she was in and settled, he closed the door and made his way to the driver's seat. “Be prepared for in case our date gets interrupted, Dami,” she warned and he nodded with a smirk.
“Of course. Should you need help, I came prepared as well,” he replied, jerking his head to the backseat were a duffle bag sat inconspicuously. She smiled thankfully at that and took one of his hands into her and gave it a squeeze.
“Thank you,” she whispered, holding his hand between hers as he started driving.
~~~~~~~~~~~~(ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧~~~~~~~~~~~~
Tim sighed as he scribbled some stuff down into his notes. He glanced up at his laptop to continue skimming over the report. His comm buzzed and he stopped writing to press a button to talk to his secretary. “Yes, Carrie?” he asked, tilting his head a bit.
“A, Miss Reeves, is here to speak to you. She works at the Crown Coast Hotel as an OM. Her hotel is housing the internship class,” Carrie said and Tim hummed in thought as to what the OM would need.
“Send her in,” Tim sighed out, he was so close to escaping the company. The door to his office swung open slowly to reveal a woman who looked similar to Dick’s date Xavier, her skin a couple shades lighter, which means this must be his sister Melody. She was wearing her Hotel’s uniform which was a white button down shirt with the sleeves rolled up, the logo right where a name tag would go. Her shirt was tucked into a black pencil skirt, and she had on black ballet flats. She somehow got her wavy-tight curls under control to be in a ponytail held by a red ribbon, no doubt there was a hair tie under it. “Hello, you must be Melody Reeves,” he greeted her and she gave him a smile as she went to shake his hand after moving a file to her other hand.
“Good evening, Mr. Drake-Wayne. I’m sorry to come on such short notice but your board that oversees all the hotels WE owns have made a mistake for my hotel,” she started and Tim nodded as he sat down behind his desk and pushed his notebook away to focus on the woman in front of him as she sat down across from him and leaned forward a bit to place the file onto his desk.
“Really? If that’s the case how come you came down and not the GM?” he asked curious since this seems to be something above her position's duties. A scowl painted her lips as she shook her head, her hair flying behind her.
“It’s because my GM doesn’t like to do the duties assigned to him. I brought it up to him when I realized but he didn’t want to come here and disturb you sir. But this cannot wait,” she explained and he nodded as he opened the file. While nothing stood out, he knew that Melody would know more since she was working at the hotel.
“What seems to be the problem then? I’m not well versed on the ins and outs of running or working in a hotel,” he said and she nodded and pointed to the first thing listed that the board agreed on.
“Starting here, the board ordered us to supply our sister hotel with spare microwaves and such appliances. Normally this wouldn’t be an issue, but as it is, most of our supply is in use. The few remaining we have we can’t give out since most of our’s are on their last legs. As it is, we are keeping a couple rooms unoccupied to strip them of anything we can to give to other rooms. And we’ve asked the board for help but they are leaving us to use the money we make to place the items but we don’t have enough money. Any money left is being squirreled away to either pay our employees or the repair men we call in when something major breaks,” she started pointing to different things under the first point so that he could understand better. As she explained he nodded along and started writing in the margins of the file.
This is how the next hour is spent for Tim, listening to everything the board decided for the next few months will go for a hotel is bad. They were just finishing up when Jason knocked as he pushed open the door. “Ready to go, Timmy-boi?” he asked with a sideways grin. Tim shook his head, glancing between Melody and Jason.
“Not yet, Jason. Give me a few more moments while I finish up this meeting with Ms. Reeves,” he said and Jason nodded and went to sit on one of the couches in Tim’s office. He glanced out and watched as two shadows, a girl and boy he could make out, jump across roofs. His eyes widened and he glanced back to Tim who was shaking the woman's hand.
“Thank you for bringing this to my attention. I’ll speak to the board about this in the morning and make the appropriate changes,” he said and the woman had a grateful smile, seemingly brightening up the room in Tim’s opinion.
“No, thank you, Tim. Have a good night,” she said standing up and walking from the room and closing the door behind her.
“Tim, tell me you have binoculars in your office,” he said and Tim nodded wondering what Jason saw as he snatched the binoculars out of Tim’s hands. As he zoomed in on the two, he could tell the girl was in her early 20s and the boy late teens. They had stuff covering their faces, probably a precaution to protect themselves.
“What is it?” Tim asked, looking over Jason’s shoulders and making out the two shadowy figures.
“It seems there’s two people training. For what, I don’t know,” Jason said as he gave Tim the binoculars. Tim looked at the two and nodded agreement. They knew each other definitely and the moves they did weren’t filled with any intention besides practicing. As he lowered them, the two took off and Tim hummed. “What do you say?”
“I say those moves look familiar no?” Tim asked and Jason slowly nodded agreement. “There’s only a few people who know how to fight like that and most are busy. So that means that that is Xan. Which most likely means Lana’s with him. He’s probably training with her to prevent what happened to him happening to anyone else in the family,” Tim said and Jason slowly nodded.
“That would make sense, but Joker was the only one crazy enough to work with the League. And he’s out of the picture. Thank fucking god tho,” Jason muttered the last part under his breath. Tim couldn’t help overhearing tho and he couldn’t agree more with him. “But I guess, you can never be too prepared,” he continued and Tim nodded.
“Let’s not tell Bruce. We can’t stop people from preparing themselves to defend their home or family when they get caught up in a Rouge attack,” Tim said and Jason nodded agreement.
“Now, we need to get home. I don’t want to have Alfred giving me his disappointed look,” Jason said and Tim nodded, picking up his stuff and following him out. As he left his office he smiled at Carrie.
“Goodnight, Carrie. Don’t stay too late,” he called and Carrie nodded, pushing back some hair that had left her perfectly styled bun. He’d have told her to relax but knew she didn’t need to. The one time he brought her soup when she had laryngitis showed him that when she was at home she was relaxed. He could respect that she liked having everything look perfect when at work.
“Will do, sir. Goodnight,” she called back as she sent emails to assistants to make a meeting of the board for tomorrow morning.
~~~~~~~~~~~~(ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧~~~~~~~~~~~~
“Come on, Alya should be getting back soon. I want to know everything,” Lana said smiling over at Xan who nodded.
“Alright. We can continue tomorrow. Would you be ok with Damian and Mari coming along to help? They know more than me,” Xan replied and Lana nodded.
“Alright. If your sure they can help,” Lana agreed and Xan smiled with a nod.
If only you knew. Of course, they may tell you when they hear what your doing....we should also tell Als, Xan thought to himself as they ran across the rooftops to reach Alya’s place.
Alster @Bi_Arrow
Had the best time with these two. Can't wait to go out with them again #datenight #wentwell #hadagreattime #poly *Alya smiling happily at the camera as her arms are wrapped around Dick and Xavier’s arms. The two are smiling softly as they lean in close to her*
Mari-aculous @MDC_Designs
Can’t believe we waited so long to do this. But it was worth the wait #untilnexttime #cantwait #date
Damian @BloodBorne
I’m glad you had a good time as well. Sleep well.
Ok, so here’s the next chap!! This was fast(relatively since it was delayed by my want to update a different fic but I got this out in like three days about). I hope you guys enjoyed this new chap!! I had fun writing this chap and we saw some things happening~~!! Maybe you can guess! Anyways, until next chap! -Love Willa<3<3<3
