Here is the basic outline for my second story (first being Batman Legacy). Expect familiar faces in this one. By the way this story takes place AFTER batman beyond. Check out Batman Legacy and it will explain everything.
It has been two months since Batman was reborn in the decaying streets of the hell known as Gotham. Criminals are starting to get scarcer as the dark knight makes his presence known. But when a nameless assassin comes to Gotham seeking the status of Dark Knight, its up to Batman to stop the assassin and keep hold of the mantle of the bat in order to save a falling kingdom from the clutches of evil.
"I went around the world, searched in all the shadows. And there is something out there in the darkness, something terrifying, something that will not stop until it gets revenge... Me"
here it is, the full Batman Supremacy story. I tweaked a few things but otherwise it's pretty much the same. There is swearing in it so for those of you sensitive to that, you've been warned. enjoy
Batman Supremacy
Written By XforeverXknightX
Chapter One
The clouds slowly marched over Gotham City, giving warning to the coming storm of violence and crime that had been continuously infecting this once great place, slowly reducing it to a withering shell of what it once was. The only hope it had was the persistence of individuals who believe that there is a chance to save a falling kingdom from the clutches of the corrupt and evil. Among those there is one who has always kept to the shadows, fighting for those he has lost and vowing to protect those he loves. He is known as Batman, but for as long as he?s been around, there has been more then one man to take on the mantle of the bat and add to the ever growing legend. This story is about one man in particular, who doesn?t have a chance in saving Gotham, yet he uses that doubt to make him stronger and give him the courage to fight those who want nothing but injustice and corruption in order to fulfill their own needs. His name is Mark Kane and this is another chapter of his story...
Lighting cut through the darkened sky as the storm hovered over Gotham, covering it in a blanket of darkness. Vanessa swore as the rain came down on her, the cold water sending shivers down her spine. Using her bag, Vanessa placed it over her head and ran down the street, nearly tripping as she rushed to get home and to get off the dangerous streets of Gotham. Hand held close to her pocket where she kept her gun, Vanessa dashed down an old alley, looking behind her shoulder as she ran, making sure no one was following her. A loud noise caught her attention and she stopped to withdraw her gun. Was someone there? Thumbing off the safety, Vanessa aimed the ancient pistol at the shadows ahead of her, preparing for what may be hiding there. A wave of relief flooded over Vanessa as the kitten walked out of the shadows, purring as it rubbed against her leg.
"You had me scared," Vanessa cooed as she scooped the kitten up and continued down the street, oblivious to the figure on the rooftop above her. It wasn?t long before she reached her destination, an old hospital, which was now home to nearly a hundred rebel troops, all fighting to keep a breath of life in Gotham's dying body.
"Hey Jimmy let me in," Vanessa yelled as she slammed her fist on the door, waiting for the tall, armed man inside to open it for her.
"I'm coming, relax," Jimmy replied as he put down his magazine and keyed in his access code, commanding the doors to open.
"Thanks," Vanessa said as she ran into the hospital, leaving Jimmy to shake his head and go back to his reading. The hospital was quite large, with the West and East sectors devoted to living quarters and weapon storage. The North and South contained eating lounges and garages, among other facilities. Removing her large tattered coat, Vanessa squeezed her long brown hair out, hoping to dry it a little as she walked into her room. It wasn?t much, but it was home and she made good use of it. The inside of her room was covered in paintings and designs, all of which were beautiful and colorful. Her bed was small and shoved into the corner of the room, while her clothes and personal supplies decorated the floor.
A knock sounded on the oak door, beckoning Vanessa's attention and turning it away from her new kitten.
"Coming," Vanessa called out as she wrapped the kitten in a blanket and placed it on her bed. Opening the door, a large, muscular man occupied the doorway.
"Sarge wants to see you," he said briefly, already turning around and leaving. Within minutes, Vanessa was heading towards the elevator, waiting impatiently as it slowly moved downwards. 10, 9, 8, the numbers read as it descended downwards to the first floor. Deciding it was taking too long, Vanessa headed for the stairs, not minding the work of walking up nine floors. 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 the dials read as she began walking up the stairs. Once the elevator hit the main floor, it exploded, creating turmoil as dust and flames were unleashed upon the unsuspecting inhabitants of the building. The lights began to flicker as the first floor was rocked tremendously; daring the buildings supports to keep the structure standing.
Vanessa screamed as the stairs shook, knocking her to her feet. Cries of pain and suffering could be heard coming from all directions as the sprinklers turned on, coating Vanessa in a layer of water. Cursing Vanessa began to sprint up the stairs, hoping that no one had been hurt in the accident, even though she knew she was wrong.
Three blocks away, Batman stood perched on the spire of an old building, watching through a pair of binoculars as pillars of smoke invaded the heavens. Holstering his tool, he breathed deeply as he stared at the streets below him. His actions were fluent, as he leaped off the building, spreading his wings and soaring towards the disaster, already knowing that this was no accident. Whoever was behind this would pay, and of that he was certain.
Vanessa rubbed her eyes as a veil of smoke blanketed her, taking away her sight as she stumbled down the large and clattered hallways. Suddenly a large cloaked figure emerged became visible as it neared Vanessa.
"Who's there?" She called out as she slowly moved closer. She started to scream as she saw a large blade extend from its forearm, as its red cloak swirled around its body.
"Death," it replied as it lunged at her, its arm poised to strike. The shattering of glass stopped Vanessa's attacker dead in its tracks as Batman somersaulted to a stop, with Vengeance and Mercy in his hands.
"Back off," Batman said sternly as he stood up, his cape wrapping around him as he did so.
"Stay out of my way," his opponent said, "This does not concern you."
"Now it does," Batman replied quickly as he leaped at his opponent, striking him in the stomach and throwing him into a nearby doorway.
"You are good, but this fight is already over," the figure replied as it rose from the doorway and ran at Batman, its eyes beginning to glow an eerie white.
"It's only just begun," Batman said as he parried a blow from the man, thrusting out his leg into his opponent's knee. In a blur of speed, the man blocked the blow and caught Batman?s foot, tossing him down the hall.
"Now where were we," he said as he neared Vanessa, who was curled up against the wall.
"We aren't done yet!" Batman cried as he shot his grappling gun at the man?s hand, entwining it with a strong steel rope. Using all his strength, Batman yanked the man towards him, and with an amazing burst of strength , sent a powerful kick into the man's face, knocking him flat onto his back.
"Your interference in this matter will only make your death that more painful," his opponent barked fiercely as he pummeled Batman in a flurry of kicks and punches, battering Batman and testing just how strong he really was. Dazed and bleeding, Batman made an effort to duck the last blow, but gave in and took the punch hard in the chin, knocking him to the floor. Batman moaned as his opponent kneeled down to slit his throat with his blade, wanting to make sure that he would not interfere anymore.
"Over here," Vanessa cried as she picked up a nearby chair and smashed it over the cloaked figure's head, hitting him away from Batman.
"You will pay for your insolence," it screamed as it rose up, eyes glowing omnisciently. "No one gets in the way of Azrael, NO ONE!"
Vanessa watched in horror as Azrael crossed his forearm blades, preparing to attack, with Vanessa's only hope lying motionless on the floor. No one could help her, and that was what scared her the most.
Chapter 2
Vanessa closed her eyes as Azrael neared, and with every step he took, death became that much more certain. Fear paralyzed her as she tried to back away, but tripped and hit the floor hard, too scared to notice.
"It is time this ends once and for all!" Azrael cried as he picked Vanessa up by the neck, her feet dangling as she her windpipe was slowly being crushed.
"Go to hell," Vanessa said hoarsely as he tightened his grip on her neck.
"We'll see," Azrael replied as he threw Vanessa out the window, her cry cutting through the night, as her body flew through the glass.
"No!" Batman cried as he leaned against a wall, using it as support. Gathering up what little energy he had left, Batman leaped out of the gaping hole and held his arms and legs tight to his body as he shot after Vanessa.
Her scream grew louder as they neared the ground. I have to save her, can?t give up, Batman thought as she neared him. Time seemed to slow down as Batman reached for her flailing arm, barely catching hold of it as he spun around in mid air. Withdrawing his grapple gun, Batman fired blindly, hoping that the rope would find something secure. If it failed, then he had nothing to fear but death itself and that was the last thing he wanted to do. The metal prongs dug into a nearby building, and the rope grew tense, slowing Batman?s and Vanessa?s descent. A wave of relief flooded over Batman as Vanessa gripped him tightly out of fear.
"Are you okay?" Batman asked as they neared the ground.
"I'm fine, but not if he catches up," Vanessa replied as she looked over Batman's shoulder and saw Azrael leap out of the window, his arms poised for attack.
"Hold on!" Batman cried as he released the rope from his grapple gun and they began to free fall. Vanessa grabbed hold of him as Batman spread his cape, the sensors in his gloves causing the cape to go rigid. Vanessa screamed as the soared over the ground and into an alley, coming to a swift and steady stop.
"Go, I'll take care of him," Batman said, barely able to stand.
"No, you saved my life, now it's my turn to save yours," Vanessa replied sternly. Grabbing his arm, Vanessa allowed Batman to lean on her as the two moved as fast as possible, with Azrael closing in.
"There is nowhere you can hide!" Azrael cried as he followed them, his anger rising.
"Where are we going?" Batman whispered as they stopped at a sewer drain.
"To the heart of the city," Vanessa said as she removed the grate and jumped in. Gathering what energy he had, Batman leaped into the sewer and was attacked by a flurry of smells and noises as he descended into the darkness of the underground.
Da Club, Downtown Gotham
Dealers and killers stalked this gang infested part of town, each one looking for a cheap thrill that could cost lives, not caring if it did. Da Club was a tattered and broken building, its windows sealed and doors guarded by armed men. The security was quite impressive, which was why they were so surprised when it failed.
Smile's was a tall, skinny man in his twenties, with a hideous smile carved into his face, resulting in his name. He was covered in makeup, enhancing his already frightening appearance. His green hair lay draped on his shoulders and covered his pale face.
"Hey Jimbo you got a light?" He called as he fumbled for a cheap cigarette. No one replied. ?Jimbo, hey I?m talking to you!? He yelled as he walked towards his partner who was standing in the middle of the street.
"Do I have to fight you for that light?" He threatened as he reached out to Jimbo's shoulder. The anger suddenly drained out of his face as he withdrew his hand. Fear overtook him as he saw blood dripping off it and suddenly Jimbo fell over, his heavy body hitting the cement hard.
"What the hell?" Jimbo said as his hand tightened on his gun, eyes searching as he began to back towards the club. Reaching into his jacket, Smiles grabbed his communicator and began to speak into it but stopped quite suddenly. Fog began to bleed into the street as Smiles began to freak out.
"What the hell is going on?" He cried as he shot into the fog, not even looking where he aimed. Suddenly a shadowy figure emerged from the fog and Smiles squinted to see who it was. The last thing he saw was a shiny glint of metal as he collapsed to the ground, blood leaking from his wounded chest.
Inside the pitiful building, a man named Jester downed his glass of beer as he sat in his broken chair. His spiked hair was a sickly green and his skin a lifeless white. Nothing was going right for him, his gangs had been slowly diminished, he had been betrayed, and his reputation was slowly beginning to rot. A loud thump snapped Jester back to reality as a body came crashing through the front door, fog chasing it as it landed on the damp floor.
"Holy?" Jester started but wasn?t able to finish as a figure glided through the door. Jester was stricken with horror as the figure approached him, its face covered in bandages and a long curved blade extending from its sleeve. Its trench coat dragged behind it slavishly as it approached him, its soulless eyes boring into his guilty soul.
"Eat lead," Jester yelled as he squeezed off three shots. The figure moved with amazing speed and deflected each shot with his twin sickles, leaving Jester to plead as it grabbed him by the collar.
"What do you want?" Jester asked as he shook with fear.
"We've come with a proposition," It said, looking at Jester, its eyes flaring.
"We?" Jester said as he looked over its shoulder and saw another figure standing in the doorway. Jester nearly cried as he saw the hulking man enter the club. His body was encased in a metal skeleton with tubes entwined around various parts of his body and leading back to his blonde head. His fake eye glowed as he entered the room stepping on Smiles' body without remorse. A sickening crack was heard as the man looked over to Jester. In his hands were the bodies of Jester?s gang, each one limp and broken. Quite suddenly, he dropped the bodies, the sound of them hitting the floor captured in Jester?s mind, forever echoing.
"This is him?" He asked.
"Yes," he replied.
"Have you given him a choice yet?"
"I was leaving it for you to do," he replied coldly as he dropped Jester and headed for the door. "Oh and Stephan, try not to make too much of a mess, we'll need him in one piece not pieces."
"Of course," was Stephan?s reply as a violent grin crossed his face.
?Time to play,? he said as Jester held up his arm in defence, preparing for the worst as he closed his eyes. Suddenly a bloodcurdling cry cut through the night and echoed throughout the neighborhood, only stopping to begin again.
Sewer Systems
The sound of rushing water echoed throughout the decaying tunnels as Batman and Vanessa continued on in the stream of polluted water. Suddenly Batman?s weight was relieved from Vanessa?s shoulder as he stopped to test his legs.
?How are you feeling?? Vanessa asked as she watched Batman stretch his leg.
?I should be able to continue on without your help, but thank you for helping me get this far.? Vanessa didn?t reply as they continued walking down the tunnel, their silence more then satisfying to Batman. Too much was happening for talking; he needed the silence to help him think.
?There is something I need to do, wait right here,? Vanessa said as Batman nodded in reply. It wasn?t long before her figure was engulfed in the shadows of the sewer, leaving Batman alone.
The splashing of water flickered throughout the tunnel as Batman swiveled to meet the origin of the sound head on?. There was nothing there. Muscles growing tense, Batman crouched down and remained still, activating an experimental system in the suit called the Echo Responder 5.0. Batman?s optical system went black as the sounds around him produced accurate images, giving him an advantage against whoever was out there.
A large image flashed across the mask?s screen as Batman instinctively ducked, dodging a potential blow as the being sped by him and into the shadows. The Echo Responder began to flash a warning repeatedly as a large being dropped downwards at him, issuing a menacing growl as it did.
Acting quickly, Batman leaped out of the way and somersaulted to a stop, Mercy and Vengeance in hands. With a flick of his wrist, Mercy sailed from his grip, and towards his attacker. The creature roared as the metal skimmed its body, biting into the wall as it barely missed its target. In a roaring fury, the creature charged at Batman, head bowed as it reeled towards him. Batman quickly withdrew a steel cord as he held it in both hands, his cape wrapping around him and hiding it as he waited for the right moment.
NOW he thought to himself as he flipped into the air and landed behind the creature, thrusting the cord around its neck as he wrestled it to the ground. The creature quickly countered, and with a burst of strength, knocked Batman against the tunnel wall. Batman gasped as the air was stolen from his lungs, the weight of his opponent crushing his body against the wall. In a last attempt for survival, Batman kicked the back of its leg hard, and was rewarded with a cry of pain as the creature crumpled to the ground. As Batman raised his arm for the finishing blow, a gun shot cut through the putrid air causing him to halt as foot steps sounded from behind him.
?Stop!? cried a familiar voice as Batman turned around, Vanessa?s face staring back at his. A tall woman in a combat uniform stood beside Vanessa, her gun smoking as she aimed it at Batman?s head.
?It?s okay, he?s a friend,? Vanessa said as the woman lowered her gun.
?Why did you bring an outsider here,? the creature growled, surprising Batman as it did so.
?He?s here for the same reason I am. The Hospital was attacked by a man who calls himself Azrael, if it wasn?t for this man here I would be dead,? Vanessa said sternly as the creature stood up, revealing its true height. The creature?s shoulders were quite broad and covered in a pale green skin.
?In that case, thank you,? the creature said holding out its hand.
?They call me Jones but you can call me Waylon,? he said with a grin, revealing his pointy yellow teeth. Batman reached out and shook the powerful hand, making a friend who would be more useful then he realized in the trials to come.
Chapter 3
A dark shadow leaped from rooftop to rooftop, moving swiftly through the concrete jungle. It stopped for a moment and looked, its menacing eyes searching the streets.
?Trace target location,? he growled as a beep sounded from within his cowl.
?Target 500 m south of your current position Azrael,? the emotionless female voice responded. Moving swiftly the Azrael planted his foot on the edge of the roof and spiraled over the edge, landing perfectly on the neighboring building, running as soon as he landed. The rain distorted his vision but did not render him completely blind as he leapt from building to building, grappling over to large of gaps.
It wasn?t long before he arrived at his destination, Da Club. The streets of downtown Gotham were in terrible condition with its structures falling constantly throughout the days. An intense pain suddenly erupted throughout his back as he fell onto the roof, his breathing hoarse. His hand shaking, Azrael reached into a pouch on his belt, withdrawing a needle filled with a glowing green liquid. He began to spasm as he shoved the needle into his vein, the glowing liquid pumping new life into his exhausted body. His pain was a result of the lazarus pit and a wound that wouldn?t heal. The pain only fuelled his need for revenge and gave him strength to combat his enemies.
His breathing normal, Azrael stood up and leapt over the street with a burst of speed and strength a shadow in the sky. Azrael?s weight had been too much for the clubs roof, and had collapsed as he landed. He heard cries of confusion as he landed perfectly on the ground below, crouched amongst the smoke and dust.
?Maybe a more subtle entrance would be necessary,? he said with a touch of humor in his cold harsh voice as the dust cleared and the eyes of the men inside rested on him. Azrael?s eyes shifted to Stephan Wolfe, who had a lanky clown-like man in his giant fist. At his side was the one they called Messor, the Latin word for death.
?Is it done?? Messor asked, his voice muffled by his night black mask.
?No, my operation was interrupted and ruined before it could be carried out,? Azrael replied as he walked over a body covered by wood and dust.
?Interrupted? By who??
?The one they call the Batman,? he replied.
?Ah yes the Batman, the so called Dark Knight,? Messor replied, laughing as he did so. ?Is a rodent a bit too much for you??
?He is well trained.?
?And you are not?? Azrael remained silent as Messor stopped to think.
"I want him to be your main priority right now," Messor ordered.
"And what of the girl?"
"Batman will lead us to her in due time," he replied.
"As you wish," Azrael replied.
"Tell me, Azrael... you were a hero once, what was their weakness?" Messor asked, catching Azrael off guard. He remained silent as the question echoed in his mind.
"There is one weakness every hero has... However we shall need your help Jester, if we wish to exploit that weakness," Messor said as he sat down in a large wooden chair.
"Whatever you command of me and my gang," Jester replied hoarsely, his throat in the hands of Stephan Wolfe.
"And what is this weakness you speak of?" Azrael asked.
"The people of Gotham, Azrael."
Sewer Sytems
The hover boat shot through the sewers as Jones piloted the craft skillfully, being careful not to endanger the people on board. They traveled for nearly 20 minutes, making so many turns, Batman soon felt utterly lost, his location lost among the winding turns and sharp drops.
"Where are we going?" He asked, his grip increasing on the rail of the boat as they took another sharp turn.
"Home," Jones answered quickly, Vanessa's mouth still only opening to answer him.
"And where is that?" He questioned.
"You'll see," Jones said with a chuckle as they began to travel on a straight path, a light becoming visible at the end of the tunnel.
"Welcome to Rebel City," Vanessa said as the light grew brighter.
"Holy?" Batman started, unable to finish due to his amazement. In front of him lay a vast city built inside a large cavern. Guards could be seen everywhere as they patrolled, ensuring the safety of the children that pranced in merriment along the streets of stone.
"It's incredible."
"I know," Vanessa said as she waved to the children, a smile on her face. A giant light shone from above the city, simulating the sun as it beamed down on the city of rebels.
"How long has this city been here?"
"Nearly one hundred years. It was only recently that so many people were taken into our protection, mostly due to the disappearance of Batman, the last defender of Gotham they knew," Vanessa said, her eyes trained on the city.
The hover craft began to slow as they approached a large round, domelike building. Batman?s eyes widened as he saw a large statue placed before the building. It was a statue of Batman. Before he could ask about it, Vanessa cut him off.
"This is our city center, our elders will be anxious to meet you," she said as they stepped out of the hover boat.
"They want to meet me?" Batman said as they walked up the steps to the doors of the city center.
"They know all about your new born crusade to free Gotham from criminals and would like to talk to you about certain matters that may interest you." Inside was a large tubular device with two guards standing by it.
"Wonderful, a welcoming committee," Batman said as they removed their weapons.
"You too," Jones said as he revealed a large blade strapped to his ankle, unbuckling its holster and placing the weapon on a table.
"Have it your way," Batman said as he revealed Vengeance and Mercy, the guards? eyes growing huge as the large batarangs came into sight. With a flick of his wrist, the batarangs sailed from his hands and planted themselves into the table. No one could notice Batman?s smile as he walked on, leaving the guards awestruck. Suddenly he stopped, noticing another statue of Batman.
"Who was he?"
"The original, he's the one who has kept the streets of Gotham safe and spawned the legend of Batman, the one you are now continuing."
"How'd he die?" Batman asked as he stared at the statue of an unmasked Batman, its stone eyes sending shivers down his spine.
?He was betrayed by the one they called Nightwing. We don?t know why but for whatever reason, he was the force that led Batman to Messor and ultimately to death,? Vanessa explained.
Water dripped down from the roof as Jones led them down a murky corridor and into a large room, its floor covered in wooden planks. Ahead of them was a long metal desk, with four large metal disks spread out evenly on it. Suddenly, individual lights shot out of the disks, the faces of four elderly people hovering in its aurora.
?It is good to see you again,? the elder male said as he looked at Vanessa. ?You were successful I see.? His eyes met Batman?s, their gaze caught in a battle of perception.
?What am I doing here anyways?? Batman said, his cape wrapped around his body.
?We have a proposition for you, one that you may want to consider.?
"Continue," Batman said, shooting a glance to Vanessa.
?Have you ever heard of the name Messor??
"He killed the first Batman, right?" Batman replied.
"Yes. He is a fierce assassin and ingenious being. For years we have tracked him and now his trail leads here to Gotham City. It has been known that he was once high up in the organization known as Cobra. How he has lived so long it isn?t known but what concerns us the most is what he has in his possession.? The elder stopped, fear rushing into his eyes as he stopped.
?What is it that he has?? Batman asked, the silence wearing away at his patience.
?It?s a Decomposition Enhancing Accelerator of Tissue in Humans or as they call it the D.E.A.T.H machine.?
?You?re saying it speeds up the process of death? How is that possible?? Batman asked, the true realization of the threat dawning on him.
?According to our sources, the target is bombarded by a large plasma wave, deteriorating the body and reacting with chemicals in our bodies, speeding up the process of aging and in turn death. If the machine gets enough power to energize it, the amount of plasma created could be huge and would most likely wipe out the city and possibly those around it. With enough man power, Messor could take over a great deal of land and gain unimaginable power.
?What do you need me to do?? Batman said sternly.
?We need you to lead our troops.?
?No deal, I do this alone and with back up if necessary. Those are my conditions, take them or leave them.?
?You will not survive, Messor is guarded by fierce men and even if you do survive their attack you will not survive a fight against their master,? the elder said grimly.
?I?ll take that chance.?
?So be it,? the elder replied, ?Vanessa will give you the necessary information and an attack will be planned. Until then you may go as you please, we will contact you when the time comes.? With that the bright blue light disappeared.
?I have things to do,? Batman said as he walked out of the room.
?Wait; take this it?s a comm. device so we can contact you.? Batman nodded as he scooped the comm. device out of her hand and walked away, leaving Vanessa to stare at him bleakly as he left, disappearing into the shadows that surrounded them.
City levels
Batman swore as he lowered the sewer lid, the fresh air refreshing his senses. He seemed on edge, especially at the thought of leading. He would not be subject to the pain of watching his friends die, not again. As he raised his grapple gun, a loud cry of anger cut through the night. Batman looked to his left, confused as a large group of Gotham?s citizens stood at the end of the alley weapons in hand.
?He?s over here, GET HIM,? cried a large burly man as he raised his crowbar and ran at Batman. Knowing that negotiating would be pointless, Batman hit a button on his belt and stood motionless as the man charged at him. A smile crossed Batman?s face as the Enforcer shot through the alley wall and came to a stop, dust littering the alley. The man cried in surprise as he fell backwards, shielding him self as the tank like vehicle crashed to a landing. Within seconds, Batman was in the Enforcer and activating the manual drive.
The thrusters screamed to life as the vehicle tore through the alley way. A pair of cars came into view as they came to a stop in front of the entrance to the alley way. Batman floored the accelerator deciding that a game of chicken was necessary. The cars didn?t budge as the Enforcer drew closer but Batman knew the drivers were confused and scared. At the last second, Batman turned to the left hard, the Enforcer tearing through the alley wall and onto the street. The rest of the wall toppled down on the cars and blocked the way for the crowd resulting in cries of anger.
A pair of jeeps came into his side camera?s view as they chased after the hulking vehicle. Batman hit a button and the side turrets flipped down, shooting bursts of bullets at a pair of light poles. With a metallic scream the two poles came crashing down, pinning one jeep to the ground as the other was merely clipped on the side. More vehicles came onto his radar as a group of people also came into view. It was time he lost them once and for all.
?Auto pilot engage,? Batman said as he turned into another alley.
?Auto pilot engaged successfully,? the computer replied as Batman withdrew his grappling gun and opened the top of the Enforcer.
?Activate smoke grenades,? Batman ordered. Watching as the metallic spheres fell to the ground, Batman held his breath as the smoke spewed out, veiling him in a billowy blanket. Moving quickly, Batman leaped out of the Enforcer and squeezed the grappling guns trigger, being pulled to the top of the building almost instantly. Screams of confusion caught Batman?s ears as the people continued their chase, unable to see the Dark Knight as he crouched on the roof.
Twenty minutes later and Batman was 11 blocks away and on a GCPD motorcycle hidden away for emergencies only. Now was as good a time as any thought Batman as he sped towards Wayne Manor and hopefully some answers.
Chapter 4
Batman hit the brakes as the motorcycle skidded to a stop, smoke rising into the face of Boxer as he stood in front of him. Through confused eyes Batman watched as Boxer raised a gun to his head, motioning for more men to come out of the shadows and into view, each one carrying a gun.
?What are you doing??
?Bringing you to justice,? Boxer replied sternly, ?You are a loose cannon and I can?t afford to let you leave here.?
?What the hell are you talking about?? Batman cried as he dropped the motorcycle. The clicking of bullets being loaded into their chambers stopped him, but did not stop his consuming anger.
?2 hours ago you killed Gotham?s lone leader Jonathan Craig in front of thousands as he was giving a speech to the remainder of this city. We found this at the scene,? he said grimly as he revealed to Batman a bloody batarang, one of the many that he used as backup to Vengeance and Mercy.
?I didn?t do it Boxer,? Batman said, his teeth clenched.
?Is this yours or not,? Boxer said. Batman studied it and saw the two letters that he had carved into each of his batarangs except Vengeance and Mercy, S and J.
?Yes,? Batman said faintly as he bowed his head, not knowing what to say.
?Take him to the detention center and make sure you disarm him and take his suit,? Boxer ordered as armed men surrounded Batman.
?I?m sorry,? Boxer whispered as Batman passed him.
?So am I,? he replied as he was shoved roughly by a guard, looking back fiercely at him as he did so. Silence enshrouded him as he was escorted to a detention cell. Without being told, Batman removed Vengeance and Mercy, placing them and their holster on the table. For a minute, Batman stood still until he finally removed his mask, parting with the costume that, in the last few months, had became a second skin, and had become what he had struggled to hide all along.
?Hurry up and get in your cell,? the guard said as he smashed his rifle butt into the small of Mark?s back, sending waves of pain into his weary body. Overwhelmed by betrayal and confusion, Mark resisted from striking back, getting up slowly as he walked willingly into the dark and damp cell. Everything he had struggled to uphold was now meaningless, for he could do nothing in this cell. Slowly but surely Gotham would consume itself once more and be unprotected, the perfect victim for the one called Messor. His mind began to spin as he slowly drowned in his thoughts, each second costing him more then he realized.
1 km from Wayne Manor
Boxer walked with heavy steps as he made his way up a large hill, rain beginning to fall on his guilt filled body. He strained his eyes as he looked into the smudged images ahead of him. A figure stood motionless on the edge of the cliff, its billowing cloak a reassurance of its identity. Boxer looked around carefully, his eyes piercing the hill sides. Sure that no one was watching, he walked up to the figure, his hand resting on a gun in his jacket pocket.
?It?s done,? he said quietly.
?Do you have proof?? The figure asked in a cold voice. Boxer withdrew a batarang from his pocket, showing it to the figure. Satisfied, it grabbed it from his hand and placed it in a compartment in its cloak.
?We?ll have him delivered to you in exchange for the food and shelter you promised for those of Gotham,? Boxer said, ?If not then I shall kill you myself Azrael.?
?Yes, yes I will keep my bargain as long as you keep yours,? he said, ?you are making a wise decision Boxer, do not have any regrets.?
"No, I won't," Boxer replied as he walked back in the direction of Wayne Manor. Satisfied that Boxer was out of hearing range, Azrael activated his comm.
"Is it done," the voice asked.
"Yes. What shall I do with them once we have the Batman in our possession?" Azrael asked.
"Kill them without mercy."
A sickening smile crept across Azrael's masked face. "As you wish," was all he said as he watched Boxer make his way back to Wayne Manor. Once he had the Batman, he would kill each one of them with pleasure.
Chapter 5
Mark sat, surrounded in his thoughts. His eyes sat glued to the area where Matt had died, trying to make sense of the oath he had made that day. Matt had died, losing his life while trying to complete a mission built on the foundation of wanting to help those who could not help themselves, and to protect the defenceless from those who wished to use them for their own purposes.
A sudden screeching caught his attention. Looking at the source, Mark saw as a large bat flew around a baby one that had fallen from the cave roof, most likely dead as it lay still on the cold stone. He too was like the bat, having lost his child, feeling helpless and scared. Mark watched as the bat circled, screeching out cries of pain that echoed off the scarred walls of the batcave. Reluctantly, it gave up and returned to its home its child left to become dust as time dwelled on.
Realization dawned upon him as he finally understood why fate had conspired in such a way. Everything was meant to die at one point or another but for the city of Gotham, Mark would make sure that the people that lived there made it through times of criminality and injustice. He would continue on and continue Matt?s legacy, not only for Matt, but for himself.
Wayne Manor, Cliff-side
Jones muttered a swear as he began to scale the cliff-side. Vanessa dangled on the rope below him as she and more troops followed Jones. Craning his neck, Jones called out to Vanessa, his words barely able to be heard over the smashing waves and thunder.
"Has he answered his comm. yet?" Jones called.
"No, but the tracker in it places him just over this cliff and farther into some sort of structure." Jones nodded understandingly as he unhooked his safety rope.
"Wait here, I'll clear out any welcoming committee's," he cried with a smile as he began to swiftly scale the cliff-side, his hands digging into the rock as if it were nothing but soft dough.
"Will he be okay," one of the troops behind Vanessa asked as he looked nauseously at the water below.
"It's Waylon, remember?" Vanessa said with a wink as she looked up at Jones, praying for him silently.
The Gates, outside of the Batcave
Alexander wiped the rain off his combat helmets visor as thunder sounded and lightening struck. Cradling his gun impatiently, Alexander pictured a nice hot cup of coffee. A loud roar cut Alexander?s fantasy and brought him back to reality as he swiveled around, his gun already launching round after round of bullets. Horror overtook him as a giant crocodile like man dodged the bullets and came charging at him. With a grunt, the creature tossed Alexander over the edge of the cliff.
Dunn looked over as the creature tore at his comrade Alexander and sounded a war cry as he withdrew a knife and leaped at the man-croc. A loud cry of pain sent a blood chilling sensation down his spine as he buried his knife in the creature?s tough skin. Satisfaction overcame him but before he could celebrate, he was grabbed by the creature and smashed into the ground. Numbness took place in his lower body as his neck struck a rock. With a bleeding vision, Dunn watched as the creature raised its foot and brought it crashing down, relieving him of his misery.
Vanessa looked away as she pulled herself over the edge and onto the solid ground, breathing hard as her climbing feat took its toll.
"Was it necessary," she asked, her eyes staring at the body of the soldier.
"Yes," Jones answered quietly as he offered her his hand, hauling her up with ease.
"Captain, divide your team up, one shall search the Manor and the rest are to come with us and search the cave," Jones ordered as he tossed the dead soldier's body over the cliff-side.
"Torch, Mic, Conklin go with them, the rest of you ass holes are with me," he said harshly as he dropped his cigarette, stamping on it with his foot. "Let's show these wussys the true meaning of combat."
A cheer erupted among the men as the left, their footsteps barely able to be heard as they moved swiftly and silently up the hill and to the Manor.
"Ladies first," Jones said as Vanessa un-holstered her gun, aiming it at chest level as she began to move into the cave.
Mark studied his cell as he tried to find a means of escaping. His guard sat around lazily as he cleaned his gun, pretending to fire at invisible enemies at times of extreme boredom. A plan quickly entered Mark's mind, one that he hoped would get him out of here. Unstringing a pair of shoes that had been left for him, Mark fashioned a strong rope, his plan slowly coming together.
"Hey. BJ!"
"Whaddya want Kane?"
"I dropped something, mind helping me out?"
"Nice try, I'm not doing anything for you."
"What's wrong, scared because no one's here to hold your hand? Are you afraid of me?" Mark said, laughing hysterically to rub it in.
"You, son of a ! Take that back!"
"What are you going to do about it?" Mark said as he stuck his head against the bars of his cell, mocking the guard without care.
"SHUT UP!" He cried as he swung his fist at Mark, his arm striking in between the bars. Before the BJ could blink, Mark had dodged his arm and entwined it with the rope, slowly cutting off the circulation to the arm.
"Keys, NOW" Mark ordered as he tightened the rope?s grip on BJ?s arm.
"Please, let go, here are the keys," He pleaded as he slowly began to lose feeling in his arm. Mark scooped the keys out of BJ?s hand and released the rope. Moving quickly, Mark unlocked the cell door and kicked it open, pinning BJ to the wall.
"I'll take these," Mark stated as he grabbed BJ?s handcuffs and locked the opened cell door to its neighbour. BJ began to swear as he tried to move, but the cell door held strong and kept him pinned to the wall.
"I'll kill you," BJ cried in anger as he shook fiercely, but to no avail.
"You can try," Mark said simply as he walked over to the case holding his suit.
"FREEZE," Someone called as a gun was loaded. Without thinking, Mark grabbed Vengeance and Mercy and kicked over a nearby table, hiding behind it. He had moved just in time as bullets peppered the ground where he just stood.
"Come out with your hands up and we can stop this," the officer.
"You can stop whenever you want, I?m just getting started," Mark yelled as he somersaulted into the open, Vengeance and Mercy streaking from his outstretched hand. The two batarangs cut through the air, Vengeance striking his shoulder and Mercy cutting his gun in half. The man stared in disbelief as Mark leaped in the air and delivered a bone crunching kick to the man's jaw, knocking him out instantly.
Retrieving his weapons, Mark ran to the bat suit and quickly donned the cape and cowl. Relief flowed over him as he rotated his wrists and checked the suit for damage. Satisfied, Batman became one with the shadows, following the cries of pain and surprise that originated from the entrance to the cave.
Vanessa cried as she butt ended a soldier with her automatic rifle and leaped behind a rock formation. She could hear Jones as he fought off a number of soldiers, his battle fairly even as they traded blow for blow. A loud crack told Vanessa that Jones had taken care of another enemy, painfully.
"Vanessa, look out!" A voice cried from the center of the fray. Vanessa turned around and saw a soldier detach himself from the shadows behind her.
"Boo," he said as he leveled his gun to her head. Vanessa closed her eyes and awaited the booming sound of the gun being emptied, but it never came. A whirling noise replaced it along with a scattered scream. Vanessa looked up and saw a batarang sticking out of the man's shoulder as he cried, pinned to the cave wall. The man struggled to fire but another batarang embedded itself in the barrel of his gun rendering it useless. Overwhelmed by the pain, the soldier slumped to the ground and collapsed into unconsciousness.
"Are you okay," a gravelly voice asked from behind her.
"Yes," Vanessa replied as she turned around and faced Batman.
"Good then lets get out of here," he said as he recovered Vengeance and Mercy and slid them into their holsters, his cape then wrapping itself around him.
"Jones lets go!" Vanessa cried as she took off to the entrance of the cave. With an earsplitting roar, Jones took out his remaining opponent and ran over to Batman.
"After you," he said coyly. Batman grunted in reply as he sprinted to the entrance of the bat cave. The duo came out and saw Vanessa on her knees, Boxer holding a gun to her head.
"Drop your weapons, NOW," Boxer ordered as Vanessa began to shake. Batman hit a button on his belt as he reached for his weapons, dropping them on the ground as he prayed his plan would work.
Jones looked at him hesitantly, but it wasn?t long before he dropped a gun that he had hidden on his ankle.
"Good, now step over there."
"Boxer, don't do this," Batman pleaded, his voice steady.
"You broke the law we tried to keep in balance and I will do anything to make sure you pay for your crime," he yelled.
"What if I was set up, what if you?re doing this for nothing?" Batman argued.
"As much as I don?t want to believe it, the evidence outweighs your opinion and that?s the belief I have chosen to follow."
"To what end?"
"Until Gotham is safe and I can breath easy." Boxer?s voice was cut off by the roar of the Enforcer?s engine as it came crashing down in front of Boxer, taking away his balance and knocking him to the ground.
"Vanessa, get in!" Batman ordered as the top to the Enforcer opened. Vanessa jumped up instantly and dived into the Enforcer, getting in just as Boxer shot at her, narrowly missing as he did.
Moving quickly, Jones ran at Boxer with incredible speed and hit him hard as he tried to get up. Boxer cried in pain as he stumbled backwards, pulling the trigger repeatedly as he fell off the edge of the cliff.
"NO!" Batman cried as he ran to the edge. It was too late. The loud splash echoed in Batman's mind, his eyes glued to his ex colleagues watery grave.
"What did you do that for?" Batman cried as he turned to Jones, his anger growing with every second.
"It was necessary; he would have killed us all if he had the chance. Do you really think he would have listened to you?" Jones said as he walked away.
"The elders have prepared troops for the attack, we're to meet them in an hour at gotham metro and end this thing once and for all."
"I'll keep my word you have my promise," Batman replied as he looked out over the edge and to Boxer?s watery grave, his cape billowing solemnly in the wind.
Chapter 6
"You coming Bats or what?" Jones asked as he jumped into a jeep he had taken from Wayne Manor.
"I'll meet you there," Batman replied as he made his way to the Batcave. ?I have something I need to do first.?
"Let's move out then," Jones ordered as the jeeps roared to life and shot up dirt as their tires spun rapidly. Vanessa looked back to try and spot Batman, but he was already gone.
Batman attached himself to the shadows of the cave as he made his way to where a large computer once was. It was here that Matt McGinnis meet his doom and after all Mark did to finish Matt?s mission, he never made him a grave. Nor had he said goodbye.
Removing Vengeance, Batman carved a cross into the ground and below it wrote Matt McGinnis, a leader, a patriot.
"Rest in peace Matt," Batman said softly as he holstered Vengeance. Hitting a button on his belt, the Enforcer soon answered his call and came to a stop mere meters in front of him. Two minutes later and he was on his way to the Gotham Metro, where he would end this once and for all.
The Enforcer tore into the dark streets of Gotham, its loud engine a roar of justice in the self consuming city. Suddenly an explosion rocked the Enforcer as a rocket struck a short distance from it.
"What the hell!" Batman cried as the vehicle swerved, clipping a wall and taking out a large chunk of cement. Another rocket came into Batman?s view as he flipped on the turrets.
"Auto lock," he commanded to the computer as a storm of bullets tore into the oncoming rocket.
"Shields." Large metal plated came down around the vehicle just as the explosion occurred, remnants of the rocket hailing down on the Enforcer. Batman heard cries of anger as a group of people came onto the screen of his computer.
"Computer, activate flash bang grenades," Batman said as he flipped the necessary switches.
"Command verified and accepted," the computer replied as grenades shot out of tubes that protruded from the sides of the Enforcer. The group of people screamed as the light blinded them and the explosion singed them, causing them to retreat almost instantly. Batman wasted no time as he floored the accelerator, the vehicle shooting down the street almost instantly. Something suddenly caught Batman?s eye, a cloaked figure on a roof top above.
Hitting a button, Batman took out his grappling gun as the Enforcer?s top came open. Aiming, Batman squeezed the trigger and was lifted out of the Enforcer, flying at the figure above him. Extending his legs, Batman launched a flying kick into the chest of his startled opponent, who was thrown farther back on the roof.
"Who the hell are you?" Batman asked as he watched the figure rise and walk into the moonlight. A startled gasp escaped him as he looked back at?..himself!
"The Batman," he replied mockingly as he punched Batman hard in the chest. Batman grunted as he absorbed the blow, but recovered quickly and grabbed the imposter?s wrist, tossing him over his shoulder.
"You killed Jonathan Craig and framed me," Batman said accusingly as he matched the imposter blow for blow. "Why?"
"You were in the way, a lose thread that needed to be severed," the imposter said as he kicked Batman hard in the chin. Moving swiftly, Batman rolled and withdrew Mercy, the weapon leaving his hand almost instantly. The Batarang embedded itself in the mask of the imposter. The imposter yelled in pain as he tossed the Batarang. Suddenly his mask began to fall apart, revealing the face of Azrael.
"You!" Batman stated as he crouched into a fighting stance.
"Who else could have gotten past the guards that Craig kept handy?" he said menacingly as he tore off the rest of his bat costume, revealing his real suit, as he pulled up his hood.
"You will pay for this," Batman stated.
"We shall see," Azrael laughed. Lightening cut through the sky as the two fighters charged at each other. Batman leaped over Azrael and kicked him hard in the back, sending him sprawling onto the rooftop. He recovered faster then Batman expected and delivered a flurry of blows at Batman, most of which he blocked. Finally a blow snuck through Batman's defence and caught him in his side. Ignoring the pain, he countered and punched Azrael hard in the face repeatedly. His anger fuelled him as he threw punch after punch, blood slowly soaking the inside of Azrael?s mask. Azrael ducked the next punch and flipped backwards, throwing a chain around Batman?s wrist. Grunting, Azrael yanked on the chain and reeled in Batman, pulling him into his knee and stealing the wind from his lungs.
"It ends here Batman," Azrael said, already celebrating.
"Not for me," Batman whispered as he withdrew Vengeance from its holster and swung upwards, slicing into the top of Azrael's leg and vertically across his chest. Azrael was speechless as the blade cut into him and fell backwards in defeat.
"You may have beaten me, but Gotham will be destroyed," he laughed menacingly as blood flooded from his wounds.
"My allies already have men positioned to take Messor down," Batman said.
"Gotham Metro?" Azrael said with a smile.
"How did you know?" Batman cried as he pressed Vengeance against Azrael?s throat.
"It's a trap, I helped design it," Azrael replied simply.
"Where is Messor?"
"Do the math Detective, where can Messor get enough power for the weapon he has?"
"Rebel City...." Batman muttered, "You're trap, what was going to happen?"
"Boom," Azrael laughed. He began to cough rapidly as blood spurted from his mouth. Batman swore silently as he turned and ran towards the rooftop, leaping off it and activating the nanobots in his cape, transforming the fabric into a rigid batwing. Any minute and Vanessa and Jones would be walking into a death trap, he wouldn't let them die as long as he had blood running through his veins. Batman glided swiftly down the street, racing against time and death itself.
Chapter 7
Vanessa loaded her gun as she and her team walked to the edge of the rooftop. Her eyes gazed over the warehouse below them, looking for any possible dangers.
"It's safe," Vanessa said to her teammate.
"Roger, Captain Jones team one is a go, I repeat team one is a go."
"Let's do this," Vanessa said to herself as she pressed a button on her belt and took a few steps backwards.
"Moving out," she heard a man beside her say as she leaped off the edge of the roof. The air rushed up to meet her as she flattened her body and spread her arms, the material between them allowing her to temporarily glide. Focusing, Vanessa slammed her arms to her sides and tucked herself into a ball, somersaulting to a stop on the damp rooftop. Once everyone made it to the side, Vanessa radioed in their position and looked in through the giant skylight.
"See anything?" Tim Johnson asked.
"No...but this doesn't feel right," Vanessa said as her eyes searched for reassurance in the dark and empty warehouse.
"Nothing ever does these days," Tim chuckled as he checked his gun.
"Let's finish this and get home, boys," Tim called as everyone took out their grappling hooks.
"Do you want me to go first?" Tim asked as he made note of Vanessa's discomfort.
"No, I'll be okay," Vanessa replied, her voice quiet.
"Okay then, you two cover her, she's going in," Tim called as he signaled to a pair of arms men.
"Pass me a cutter," Vanessa said her voice more confident. Tim passed her the circular metal tool and Vanessa placed it on the glass and hit a button on its center. The tool began to glow and formed an energy orbital around it, cutting through the glass silently and effectively.
Vanessa shot the grappling hook into the roof's ledge and pulled it lightly to make sure it was properly placed. Satisfied, she attached it to her belt and eyed the hole in the skylight, a bead of sweat rolling down her face.
"Don't let me fall," She said to Tim before sprinting at the skylight, leaping off into the darkness. The rope grew taunt and snapped her upwards, shaking her as she withdrew her gun and activated the release mechanism on the grapple.
"V1 is ok and proceeding to clear the area," Vanessa whispered as she spoke into her headset. Without hesitation, she lowered her night vision goggles onto her face and the world was suddenly bathed in a green light. Her discomfort began to grow as she scanned for the smallest sound, anything to reassure her that she wasn't alone. Suddenly a beeping caught her attention. Turning her head, Vanessa walked up to a large crate placed in the corner of the warehouse.
Withdrawing her gun, Vanessa shot the latches off the crate and the large door came crashing down.
"Oh ," Vanessa said as her legs grew numb. It was a bomb.
"Tim, IT'S A BOMB GET OUT OF HERE!!!" Vanessa cried as she ran under the skylight. Tim's expression grew panicked as he dangled on his rope, just entering the warehouse.
"Everyone move out, we have a bomb! MOVE PEOPLE MOVE!" Tim cried.
"Get out of there Vanessa, c'mon," Tim cried as he reached for the button on the grapples motor.
Vanessa grabbed her rope and attached it back into the motor. She hit the button repeatedly but to no avail. The sickening sound of the gears grinding against the rope nearly made her scream as her escape seemed impossible. Her eyes looked back at the bomb, 45 seconds.
"It's jammed, forget about me and go!" Vanessa cried.
"I'm not leaving without you," Tim called, the sounds of men running across the rooftop echoing like drums in Vanessa?s head.
"Yes you are!" She cried, looking back at the bomb in despair. 20 seconds.
"Vanessa, I'm sorry," Tim whispered as he ran to the ledge of the roof and glided into a nearby alleyway.
Just as her hopes diminished, the windows shattered as a bat like shape spread its wings and dropped to the floor.
"Grab on," called Batman, time beginning to slow down.
"Hold on tight," he said to her as she wrapped her arms around his waist. Batman squeezed the trigger of his grappling gun and a few seconds later they were yanked upwards, the bomb ticking mockingly as they fled for their lives.
The explosion was deafening as the force flung Batman and Vanessa farther into the air, the line of the grappling gun snapping, and nearly hitting them as it snapped back. The pair flew over 500 yards, the force of the blast propelling them with humungous force down the street.
"Don't let go," Batman cried as they fell. Moving quickly, Batman threw open his arms and opened his cape, the material growing rigid as they struggled to halt their accelerated descent.
"We're falling too fast," Vanessa cried. Sparks began to fly as the nanobots in the cape overheated due to the weight. Batman swore as he deactivated his cape, looking for an escape at the same time. A flagpole caught his attention and gave him an idea.
"When I say now grab onto the flag pole," Batman ordered.
"NOW!" Batman cried as he spiraled, positioning Vanessa on top. Her arms shot up and grabbed the pole, spinning around it until she finally came to a stop. The rushing air pounding him brought Batman?s situation back to mind as Vanessa"s safety was taken care of. The crackling of the sparks told him that he wasn't going to be able to use his cape, and with his grappling gun without a line, he would have to get creative if he was going to live.
He closed his eyes and focused as he once did in the army, centering all his energy on what needed to be done. He had an idea, it was rough and uncertain, but it was all he had.
Batman took off his cape as he sailed towards a giant billboard. Holding it in both hands, Batman braced himself as he held it over his head. The shock was overwhelming as the cape caught on a lamp protruding from the billboard. The lamp bent as his muscles screamed, forcing him to let go. The pain flooded his body as he came crashing down on the rooftop, rolling almost all the way to the edge of the roof.
Grunting, Batman stood up and reattached his cape, his arms crying in agony. He probably pulled or tore something in his arms, but he would worry about that later. If he didn?t get to Rebel City, then all of Gotham would be destroyed and the world would witness an incredible evil.
Rebel City
Hidden deep in the recesses of Rebel City?s great center was its powerful energy source, a plasma generator. Alongside this was the elders temple, where the rulers of the city stayed and would safe from harm, or so they thought.
Elder Sorokin paced back and forth impatiently, the remaining elders sitting around a large table.
"Why haven't they contacted us yet?" He yelled in anger, the days of frustration finally getting to him.
?We must remain calm if we are to find out. But first you must control your emotions Elder Sorokin," Elder Ronan demanded as his eyes matched Sorokin?s.
"I am sorry, I just concerned for their safety."
"It is noted and understood Sorokin," Elder Kyle said calmly, her hands clasped together.
"I too, am concerned about the lack of response from our troops. I believe this is an appropriate time to send a retrieval team to their last known location," Elder Ronan said.
"Agreed," the remaining Elders said in unison.
"Guard, have your Captain send a retrieval team to V1?s location and make sure that her and the rest of the team are safe," Elder Sorokin ordered, his pacing ending.
"Guard?" His body fell to the ground and the noise sounded throughout the chamber. A large sickle lay embedded in his back, a river of crimson flowing from its entry point.
"What is going on here?" Elder Ronan demanded as he stood up.
"The beginning of the end, Elder" The elder's eyes widened as the voice whispered into his ear.
"Messor," Elder Kyle said faintly as she stared at the intruder.
"A name you won?t soon forget," he said with a horrifying laugh. They watched in terror as he retrieved his blade and walked towards him. Elder Eve screamed as he neared them, his blade dripping the same liquid that ran in their time battered veins. They would not escape, nor would they suffer without pain. Messor would make sure of this and he would do it without the slightest feeling of guilt.
"I went around the world, searched in all the shadows. And there is something out there in the darkness, something terrifying, something that will not stop until it gets revenge... Me"
Batman ran down the street to where Vanessa was standing with Jones. She must have gotten off the flagpole while he was still on the roof down the street.
"Vanessa, are you okay," Batman asked as he approached them.
"I should ask you the same thing," she said as she pointed to the wet spot on his arm.
"It's just a scratch," Batman said, hiding his arm within his cape as it wrapped around him.
"Was everyone able to escape safely?" Batman asked, turning to Jones.
"A few bruises here and there but no fatalities," Jones replied with a smile.
"Good, we need them to gather and head back to the underground, Messor is planning to use Rebel City's power supply to power his weapon, if we don't stop him then he'll wipe out everyone in Gotham and the cities surrounding it."
"How are we going to get in? They probably have the entrances blocked off," Vanessa asked.
"I'll leave that up to Jones," Batman said, "You know the sewers better then I do, so I'm leaving it up to you to get us in there."
"If they're smart, they'll have blocked off the north, south, and northeast entrances. That leaves the west entrance."
"Through the old city sector?" Vanessa asked.
"Exactly, now follow me," Jones ordered as they ran to a nearby sewer lid and jumped into the underground network, time ticking away slowly.
The darkness was overwhelming, leaving the trio with no choice but to use their night vision goggles.
"This way," Batman heard Jones whisper as they moved swiftly down the sewer line. Fifteen minutes later and they were standing in a large circular opening, looking at the remains of a city. The buildings were covered in mould and crumbled without notice. Thankfully the rats weren?t too bad, but the smell was unbearable.
"Stick to side of the streets."
"Why don't we use the alleyways?" Batman asked as they hugged the walls of the buildings.
"If the walls start to collapse we won't be able to escape." Batman cursed at himself for the asing such a stupid question. He needed to be smarter then that if they were to make it out of this alive.
"Wait, I hear something," Jones said as he signaled for them to stop.
"What is it?" Batman asked, his eyes scanning the area.
"RUN!" He cried. A loud rumbling reached Batman's ears as the wall beside them exploded into dust and debris. A loud roar cut through the air as a giant, machine like man walked out of the passage. A blonde ponytail lay vertically upon his back, surrounded by wires and metal.
"You, you are suppose to be dead, Batman!" The large man cried, "No matter, you will not survive this time."
"Jones, Vanessa, RUN!" Batman cried as he hurled a handful of smoke grenades into the ground and simultaneously ran at the man, leaping up and striking his foot into the man?s chest.
"It's time for a little chaos," the man cried as he hit a glowing blue button on his chest. Then the unbelievable happened. The man's muscles rippled with intensity as they doubled, then tripled in size. Veins began to show through his skin as he unleashed a primal roar.
"What the hell are you?" Batman said as he slowly backed away, reaching for Vengeance and Mercy.
"The name is Stephan Wolfe. Take a good look at me, for my face is the last one you will see while on this Earth," he said with a laugh, his size still growing. With startling speed, Stephan Wolfe drew back his arm and sent his fist flying at Batman's head. Batman flipped sideways and landed in a crouch, hurling Mercy at Stephan Wolfe.
Batman's eyes widened in surprise as Stephan Wolfe caught the batarang with his hand and tossed it back. Mercy came back at him faster then it had left and sliced through his shoulder, grazing the bone. Stephan Wolfe followed up and punched Batman under the chin, knocking him through a window and into an old store.
With a roar Stephan Wolfe came crashing through the store front, debris spraying in all directions.
"You can run but you can't hide Batman," he yelled, starting to laugh. His laugh was cut off as Batman dropped down from the fan on the roof, elbow dropping Stephan Wolfe in the small of his back. Recovering almost instantly, Stephan Wolfe swung his lumber like arms in circle, smashing into Batman's chest and stealing the wind from his lungs. Upon reflex, Batman grabbed his arm and stabbed Vengeance into his arm. Tearing it back out, Batman flipped away and then ran back at Stephan Wolfe, kneeing him in the chest and elbowing him under the chin.
"More, need more!" Stephan Wolfe cried as he hit the button on his chest again.
"Not this time!" Batman growled, jumping over Stephan Wolfe, Vengeance leaving his hand and cutting into the glowing blue tubes that ran into Stephan Wolfe?s neck.
"It's time that we even the playing field," Batman said with a smile as he unleashed a roundhouse kick and followed up by stomping down on the chest of Stephan Wolfe.
"I'll kill you, I swear on it," Stephan Wolfe screamed as he slowly shrunk back down to his still giant size.
"Prepared to be disappointed," Batman remarked sternly as he melted into the shadows of the store. Sweat began to roll down Stephan Wolfe's face as he spun in a circle, his eyes searching for any sign of movement.
"Show yourself, you coward!"
"Why, are you scared Stephan Wolfe? Scared to fight what you can't see?"
"Shut up and reveal yourself!"
"Have it your way," Batman whispered into his ear. Stephan Wolfe opened his mouth in surprise, but before he could react he was being flipped over Batman's back and into a glass showcase.
"You?re nothing but a mere man, one I could crush without hesitation," Stephan Wolfe cried in frustration as he regained his stance.
"That's what makes us so different, you fight for pleasure where I fight for something greater," Batman stated as he kicked Stephan Wolfe in the face and spun around on his toes, his fist striking Stephan Wolfe with shattering force.
"Give up Stephan Wolfe, your end has come and I am the one delivering it!" Batman yelled as he peppered Stephan Wolfe with blows. Leaping backwards, Batman landed on the palms of his hands and kicked outwards, his feet shattering Stephan Wolfe's ankle and disrupting the atmosphere with a crisp crack.
"You can't beat me, you won?t!" he cried in dismay as he reached for a grenade tucked away in his tunic. Batman was already moving as the grenade rolled along the floor, swiftly leaping through the gaping hole in the wall. The explosion was deafening as the force hurled Batman into an old car, shattering the window.
The building began to collapse upon itself, the blocks and chunks of cement falling like meteors towards the ground and Batman. He could only look in despair as the building slowly loomed over him, its dark shadow begging him to run. Sweat rolled down his face as he stood up, the pain sparking a hidden energy. Running as fast as he could, Batman leaped to safety, the building crashing down in sickly reminder of what could have been his untimely death.
Jones looked back in surprise and saw the chunk of cement flying at him. The stone missile struck him in the side and knocked him down, Vanessa thrown from his grasp.
"No!" Batman cried, running as fast as he could to his injured friend.
"Jones, speak to me," Vanessa said, tears building up in her fragile eyes.
"Just a scratch, I swear," Jones mumbled as he slowly died.
"Bats, take care of her," were his last words as his chest stopped moving and his body grew still. Vanessa collapsed in her own pool of tears as she cried for the loss she suffered.
Another friend lost Batman thought as he stared at Jones. He was getting good at losing those around him, a habit he needed to lose if he was to remain sane.
"Vanessa, we need to go," Batman said his voice almost a whisper.
"What about Jones?"
"There's nothing we can do for him now," Batman said solemnly as he picked up Mercy and holstered it.
"I need you to stay here and hide in one of the buildings. I can't afford to let you get hurt or worse... Take this but be careful," Batman said as he removed Jones' knife from his ankle holster.
"Be careful," she said as she hugged him.
"I will be," he said before releasing her and running off into the darkness.
Batman sprinted down the city streets and soon came to a large entrance covered in mould. Without hesitation Batman entered the sewer tunnel and run as fast as he could down its length until he came to the end. Squinting, Batman saw a figure standing at the end. Suddenly a bright light lit up the tunnel and threw Batman backwards, landing hard on his back. The last thing he remembered seeing was the tunnel roof with a haunting voice echoing off the walls around him.
Chapter 9
Batman slowly opened his eyes, his head pounding. He tried to move his hands to his head but he couldn?t. With blurry eyes he looked at the metal cuffs attached to his hands and the pipes beside him. His feet dangled helplessly while he remained trapped in the jungle of pipes.
"He has awakened," Batman heard a voice say as he looked around for the owner of it. Two figures walked down a hall and into the chamber where Batman was held. Batman recognized one of them instantly, Messor.
"So this is the great Batman, the so called Dark Knight," Messor said was a laugh, his voice muffled by the bandages hiding his face.
"You're nothing but a wannabe, a figure in the shadow of another," Messor said, his voice becoming serious.
"You underestimate me," Batman said, his teeth clenched as he lowered his face to meet Messor's. "That's a mistake you don't want to make."
"We shall see in due time," Messor said as he turned and walked away, un-intimidated by Batman's ferocity.
"Make sure he has front row seats for the light show," Messor said to the guard waiting in the corridor.
"As you wish," he replied, watching Messor walk off and into the city.
Batman thrashed wildly as he attempted to break free of his restraints. He cursed under his breath as he tried to think his way out, brute force not being the answer.
"Think Mark think," he said quietly as he looked around the room. Finally a plan struck him it would have to work even though it was a rough idea.
Batman pushed himself towards one of the two pipes that were attached to his handcuffs. Using his forearm blades he slowly cut into them. His efforts where rewarded by a cloud of hot steam that he narrowly dodged. Moving quickly he held bent the pipe with one hand and aimed it at his restraints, the hot steam slowly warping and weakening the metal. Batman yanked free with ease, reaching into his belt to remove a batarang and cut the remaining one off.
Batman grunted in surprise as he dropped almost instantly. Reflexes kicking in he kicked out and straddled the opening below him, a bead of sweat maneuvering down his face.
Swanson rolled his cigarette across his mouth with his lips, a sign of boredom. A loud bang snapped him back to the real world as he raised his gun almost instantly and moved on into the holding chamber. The light burnt out quite suddenly. Just my luck he thought as he activated his night vision and walked over to the large hole that was layered by pipes traveling across the roof and then up the hole and to the surface. The bullet clicked into the chamber as he raised his gun and looked up the pipe.
"My god," was all he could say before a black shape dislodged itself from the pipes and fell towards him. At the last second Swanson rolled away and emptied his cartridge at the figure. He panted uncontrollably as he reloaded and shot wildly, hoping the misaimed bullets would strike his attacker.
?Batman put your hands up and surrender," he called out.
"No thanks," Batman whispered as he wrapped his arm around Swanson's neck and flipped him over his shoulder. Swanson landed hard and hit his head on the cement flooring, falling unconscious as his gun clattered across the floor.
Batman looked at his fallen enemy with satisfaction. His dual batarangs lay displayed on a nearby table, which he recovered quickly before uniting with the shadows and sprinting down the barren hallway and to what would be the battle of his life.
Vanessa choked back tears as she buried Jones' body underneath scattered rubble, crafting a cross for her fallen friend.
"You've done too much for me to truly thank you Jones, I'll.... no we all will miss you. Goodbye Waylon," she said as she placed the cross firmly above the makeshift grave. His knife was planted firmly in the center of the cross above his name that Vanessa had carved into the stone. For nearly an hour she sat near the grave, reflecting. Finally she grabbed her gun and took off after the path that Batman had taken. She would save Rebel City, not only for those who lived in it but for Jones, she could do that much.
Batman ran across the rooftops as he made his way to the cities core. Suddenly gun shots alerted him and he immediately followed the sounds to their origin. Beneath him in the street where 7 of Messor's guards fighting off some resistance, most likely city dwellers protecting their homes.
"Perfect," he said to himself. Checking his cape he was relieved to find that the nanobots had not been fried during his last flight. Satisfied, Batman leaped off the rooftop, his image beckoning the men below to scream.
The air punched into the wings and slowed his descent as he landed between the 7 soldiers, his eyes glowing horrifically.
"What the hell," the nearest soldier said as Batman flipped and kicked his legs outwards, shattering the visors on two soldiers helmets. His actions were fluent as he moved with terrifying speed, chopping at the nearest neck, kicking out the nearest knee. It wasn't long before only one more soldier was standing.
The soldier smiled as he pulled out two blades and ran at Batman. Batman reached into his belt and removed Vengeance and Mercy, crossing the blades before parrying his attackers blow. He swept his arms downwards and jumped upwards, landing behind the soldier. Surprisingly the soldier rolled out of the way as Batman stabbed downwards, his blades biting into the streets exterior.
"Eat metal," the soldier said as he arched his arms and struck at Batman's head.
Batman was already countering as he flipped backwards and kicked the man under the chin, his blades falling to the ground along with him. Batman was surprised as the man got back up, clenching his fists. No problem thought Batman as he grabbed the man by the collar and smashed him into a nearby car's windshield. Grabbing Vengeance and Mercy Batman ascended back to the rooftops, leaving a group of rebels to try and figure out what had just occurred.
Chapter 10
The air pushed against Batman's body as he leaped off the rooftop and crashed through the glass of the City Center, his cape slowing his descent.
"Tag him!" someone called as Batman rolled to a stop, diving behind a counter. Bullets tore through the wood beside his head, yet he remained still, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. The calming sound of an empty cartridge reached Batman?s ears as he did a back flip over the table and charged at his attackers, delivering a flurry of kicks and punches with lightning speed. They were unconscious by the time they hit the ground.
"Intruder alert, intruder alert," an electronic voice said as Messor?s men began to pour into the room. There was no escape.
"Shoot to kill," Batman heard someone say. It was time that they played to his advantage. Batman's eyes focused at the leader of the group as he removed his gun. Before he knew what happened a small explosive left Batman's hand and detonated the lights, encasing them in darkness.
Guns shot almost instantly as bullets sprayed the room from all directions. Small bursts of lights gave warning of an incoming shot, but many failed to get out of the way, their lives ended instantly. After a few minutes, the shooting stopped.
"My god," a soldier said as Batman descended upon him, kicking him the distance of the room. Not stopping to observe his handy work, Batman jump kicked the nearest body and threw blows in all directions, each one hitting their target.
"Gotcha," a voice said, the whisper caught by Batman's enhanced hearing system. Vengeance was in his hand before the man finished talking. The batarang cut through the air and ran up the man"s gun and along his arm, leaving a mark he would surely remember. The emergency lights flashed to life as Batman stood in the center of the room, the bodies of at least 17 guards littered around him.
Vanessa ran down the streets of Rebel City, her gun held tightly in her grasp. She could already picture Jones running up from behind her, telling her to wait up. It wouldn?t happen now and it never would. The sickening truth that she wanted to avoid was apparent and carved into her very mind. He was gone, and there was nothing she could do about it.
A loud clank alerted Vanessa and secured her back on reality?s ground. Pivoting on her foot, she saw a three soldiers run from somewhere ahead of her. They screamed and called of a Bat creature. She smiled knowing the truth behind their nightmares.
"Help us," they cried as they shoved past her and out of sight.
Five minutes later and Vanessa was at the City Center. The best way in would be through the ventilation pipes, they run straight to the city's core. Holstering her gun, Vanessa tore the grate of a ventilation pipe and climbed in, the climax of all they had strived to accomplish waiting on this very moment.
Batman stood in the chamber that he had been previously his previous visit seeming like it had been an eternity before. His eyes searched the room as he ran various scans via the bat suit, hoping to find some clue as to the entrance of the city's core. He was sure that the access point would be from this complex and this was his best bet on its location. Walking around, Batman found a large metallic slot in front of the hologram projector. Removing the communicator they gave him, Batman found it to be a perfect fit.
"Batman," the hologram said as the image of Elder Sorokin crackled to life. "In the event that this projector is activated then let it be known that the Elders of fallen. An alarm has been activated and the city is being evacuated as we speak. The Elders have taken the liberty of putting our current knowledge of Messor's plans onto this so you can stop him and succeed where we have failed. This message has been programmed to answer any specific or key questions that you may have."
"How do I get to the city's core?" Batman asked. The machine hummed annoyingly.
"To your right is a large wall. Place the communicator in the center and the door will open."
"How do I stop the machine from activating?" Batman questioned, aware that time was running out.
"You need the master key, once you have it you can shut it down. If you fail to gain possession of the key then do whatever you deem necessary."
"I will," Batman said as he walked to the wall on his right. Placing the communicator in its center, the device was slowly absorbed into the wall and began to glow intensely. With a loud grinding sound the wall pulled itself apart and revealed a staircase. Fire roared at the end of the tunnel and beckoned Batman to his doom. He would answer its call and would fulfill his mission, failure was not an option.
Chapter 11
The heat was unbearable as Batman walked along the catwalk, awestruck at the numerous machines that surrounded him. Gears grinded and squealed as they gave power to the rest of the mechanical body that supplied Rebel City with energy.
Batman's hands fell upon Vengeance and Mercy as he saw Messor below him, along with a dozen men. Each one had a cord that they were connecting to the core as the planned to give life to the hellish machine.
Batman's eyes widened in surprise while he watched the men drag over a large tube over to the D.E.A.T.H machine, he couldn't believe what he was seeing. It was Devon Frost, frozen in stasis. What could they want with him? Batman thought as they slid the tube into an opening of the accelerator. He would find out later, time was running short. Looking up, Batman saw long chains moving along a rail. He smiled as he leaped up and grabbed the chain, climbing into the darkness as he slowly moved above his prey.
Frost cried as numerous needles penetrated his body. His mind screamed in agony as he struggled to remember how he got into the tube and what was happening. Gas poured into the tube and slowly pulled him out of consciousness? arms, and into the dark.
"Begin the machine," Messor barked as the men began to punch in codes and flip the activator switch.
Batman dropped off the chain and landed hard on one of Messor?s thugs before he could set in the final activation code.
"You," Messor cried as he revealed his weapons, the long curved blades reflecting the light of the fire.
"It ends here Messor," Batman stated as he withdrew Vengeance and Mercy.
"Not for me it doesn't," he laughed as a dozen Jokerz appeared from behind the machines, each one with a make shift weapon.
"We'll see," Batman cried as he did a roundhouse kick and took out 3 Jokerz. A clown rushed at him with great intensity but Batman was already prepared as he flipped over him, grabbing the clown by his shoulders and tossing him back into the crowd of attackers.
"Move," Messor ordered as he tossed the machine operator at the core, the man burning up instantly. He typed rapidly as he struggled to carry out his plan, each second giving him more opportunity to fail.
"NO!" Batman cried, leaping past his attacker and running at Messor. Mercy left his hand and stuck itself into Messor's hand as he typed. He screamed in agony as the keyboard exploded and tossed him back into Batman?s fist.
"What do you want with Frost?" Batman cried as Messor's eyes met his.
"He has the uncanny ability to deteriorate human flesh, along with an accelerator and we could create a weapon of mass destruction, one that could allow us to take over Gotham and the world as we know it!"
Sirens began to roar as Messor recovered and traded blows with Batman, each one driving them to the point of exhaustion. Batman dodged a right jab and tried to punch back, but Messor was too fast. Messor swung diagonally with both hands and cut into Batman with his blades.
Batman cried as he fell to his knees, the warmth of his blood gently rolling down his body.
"The dynasty of the bat comes to an end at my hand," Messor said as he positioned his blades to take off Batman?s head.
"Any last words Batman?"
"Boom," Batman said as he tossed Vengeance into the computer controlling the accelerator. The explosion was gigantic, the force punching into Batman and throwing Messor into a set of gears. Batman groaned as he tried to get up, but collapsed from the pain. Hissing filled his ears as the tube began to shatter, the gas releasing harmlessly into the atmosphere.
"You," Batman said as Frost rose from his resting place, a hideous smile on his face.
"Nice to see you again, Mark," he said coyly, walking towards Batman calmly.
"The feeling isn't mutual," Batman yelled, his eyes glued to Vengeance and Mercy, the weapons far out of his reach. Frost looked back to Vengeance and Mercy, noticing Batman's eyes as they remained glued to them.
"It's just you and me this time Mark. It's about time I finished you and end what should have happened long ago."
"How fitting that your family all died by my hand, well at least you and your wife," he laughed.
"What are you talking about?" Batman cried, attempting to stand up despite the pain.
"You're daughter wasn't home when I came knocking, too bad though I heard she was quite the looker," he laughed hysterically.
"Liar!" Batman screamed, the truth causing relief and pain.
"It's the truth, but it doesn't matter anyways she's probably already dead and soon you will be too."
"You monster," Batman barked coarsely as he began to charge at Frost.
"Bring it on Bats," he said with a laugh. Red began to drape itself across Batman's vision, his arm hurting incredibly as he reached down for a grenade.
"Burn in hell Frost," Batman cried, hurling the grenade into the accelerator.
Frost's eyes grew big as the fire from the explosion incinerated his body. Batman collapsed as the force threw him across the room and into a stairwell. The pain numbed the feeling from his body as he laid still, the core beginning to collapse upon itself. So this was how he was going to die. He always thought of his death occurring with the army and by the hands of a terrorist. That life was over now as his second also slowly drew to an end. The last thing he remembered seeing was a haunted face towering over him, and then he broke through reality and fell into the clutches of his dreams.
Vanessa watched in horror as fireballs of enormous size engulfed the core. She screamed Batman's name over and over. Just as she gave up hope, she saw him lying on the ground, someone else alongside him. Debris fell down from the roof and fell towards Batman, his death inevitable.
"No!" Vanessa turned and ran for her life as the core exploded, the blast shaking the foundations of the city as she barely escaped with her life. The roof collapsed along with her as the moon poured in, its eerie glow showering her in nocturnal light.
Relief flooded over her as she saw that the city had safely been evacuated and the guards had made it out safely. Her relief was then replaced with sorrow, the picture of Batman's limp body burnt ferociously into her mind. A woman?s cry hit her ears, but Vanessa was unconsciously crying, choking on the tears that fell from her eyes, unable to answer his call.
3 Days Later
Vanessa stood with teary eyes along with Elder Kyle, the lone survivor of Messor's attack on the Elders. They stood mourning in a hidden cave near Rebel City. 2 Life sized statues stood before them, a grave in front of each. On the graves were the names Bruce Wayne and Terry McGinnis. A new one was now in place with a statue of Mark standing alongside that of the two previous Batmen, his life now truly part of the legacy of the Bat. Vanessa walked away in sorrow, her mourning gasps heard by Elder Kyle who remained.
"So this is where it ends," Elder Kyle spoke softly, a tear escaping her eye as she touched the grave bearing Bruce Wayne's name.
"What chance does Gotham have without Batman, without you...Bruce?" Elder Kyle stood up and followed the long corridor back to Rebel City and to a new beginning, one that was not guarded by the shadow of the bat.
Across town
Batman coughed painfully as he rose from his makeshift bed. Tears blurred his vision as he strained to see through the surrounding shadows. His head pounded like drums and he nearly cried out load in realization that his costume had been removed. Mark saw a figure standing by a window, hidden by the shadows. The figure turned its head as Mark breathed heavily.
"How are you feeling," the man said as he stepped into view, revealing himself. Mark looked at the face before him, years of trouble showing through the man?s skin. His black hair was accented with speckles of grey and his eyes covered by a small black mask. He wore a black body suit and from Mark could tell, had a birdlike symbol on his back.
"Who are you," Batman said quietly, the pain burning his lungs.
"I'm a friend and that's all you need to know," he replied as he inserted a needle into Batman's arm and put him to sleep, the full moon enveloping the room in its light. The man stared back at he moon, knowing fully of the trials that awaited the two men as they laid in wait, the real danger lurking in the shadows of the city, awaiting to pounce on its defenceless prey.
"I went around the world, searched in all the shadows. And there is something out there in the darkness, something terrifying, something that will not stop until it gets revenge... Me"
k sorry, I posted my story earlier but didnt realize that 4 chapters where missing, so I fixed that. enjoy
"I went around the world, searched in all the shadows. And there is something out there in the darkness, something terrifying, something that will not stop until it gets revenge... Me"
BATMAN: Yesterday, Today, & Beyond, all of it's sub-sites, or hosted sites are in no way associated, or affiliated with DC Comics, Time Warner or any of it's divisions.
Items cataloged in merchandise sections are not for sale. The downloading of video game ROMs is for backup and testing purposes only. If you do not own the actual game, the ROM is to be deleted from your hard drive within 24 hours.
Any money that may be made from Amazon Associates, advertisements, or affiliate programs will be contributed to the maintaining of this website, to provide the fans with the best that we can offer.
Home
