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Seal of Darkness	By : RaphaelTMNT Category: -Misc Anime > Crossovers Views: 4281 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own Batman, Rosario Vampire or Dark Stalkers nor the characters from either of the three series. I do not make money from writing this story.

Chapter List
- 17
- 18
- 19
Seal of Darkness
CHP18: Intentions Divulged

Little light from a nearby window peered in through the blinds of a window, the moon's glow especially elegant on this night, accompanied by a few scattered clouds. The head man of the operation sat at his desk, chewing away at the fish in his mouth and spitting the bones into a nearby trashcan. A round bowl sat atop the table, only one third of the meal remaining. He took another bite just as there was a knock at the door.
"Mister Cobblepot, there's someone here to see you, its officer Sandrell," a voice spoke from the other side of the door.
"Thomas Sandrell," the penguin spoke with a mouth full of fish. "Bring him in."
The doors opened and the police officer to GCPD entered alongside two guards. One flipped on the light switch as they walked toward his desk, Thomas approaching with his arms crossed.
"Glad we could meet, I'll try and make this short as possible. The commissioner of police has constantly been breathing down my neck and everyone else's. No surprise with the state of things, and the lack of progression on his end. Rest assured, no one knows anything."
"Great job lad," Penguin spat another couple bones into the trash. "I knew there was a reason I took you under my payroll, and you did a masterful job alerting Gordon and his cronies were on to us and created the perfect diversion."
"Did you get what you needed?"
"Of course, and you're certain your tracks are covered?"
"Positively and I'll keep you updated as orders are passed down. Nothing yet on our competition, the Joker and even Dent, none of those parties have made a move. However I do have something on Black Mask, a small tip I picked up on," Thomas dropped a small piece of paper over the table. "Tomorrow night he and his men plan to assemble at Gel's Plaza, that's all I've got for now. You need not worry about the police department, our only concern is the bat; just what is he up to, and how much does he know is the question."
"We'll cross that bridge when it comes to it," the Penguin said.
"Then it's time I check out, favorite stripper is set to take the stage soon," Thomas headed for the exit, "Don't wanna miss a seconds action of that."
"Just in time, Eyui Gyo should be here any minute," Cobblepot rubbed his hands together.
The official to GCPD exited through the doors, and Peguin's men followed shortly after. Things couldn't have gone better, but in the back of his mind lied a small ounce of doubt, just when it appeared the objective was within arms lengths, the crusader would snatch it away! The dark knight was a thorn in his side, an obstacle more painful than a bullet to the shoulder.
Things weren't so clear for another across town, his world turned upside down and possibly in peril. At the conclusion of his paperwork, he answered a few last calls, but his mind afloat. There was more that needed catching up on, but not until something was settled. After one final call, he was out of the office and didn't speak during his departure from the building. Being who he was, Bruce Wayne was without panic and had faced situations similar to, or worse than what presented him. He wouldn't be controlled, not by her, not by anyone. The drive was short, but felt times the length, given the circumstance and so many unknown factors that might come into play. Parked out across the street, he crossed as the light flashed from green to red. Serruci's was ahead, and he couldn't help but mentally play out different scenarios. The moment he entered, his eye looked to a clock over a wall, showing five minutes after ten. He spotted her not long after. Her back was against the leather fabric of a booth, one leg over the other. She wore a dark blue bow in her hair, blue blouse, green skirt and black boots.
Her eyes were out the window, staring at seemingly nothing, a faraway look in them, much like an ocean. Bruce marveled at them and felt he could stare at them all night. Her appearance was very much the same, so innocent, so beautiful. Whether that held true for what was beneath...the jury was undecided.
"Akasha," Bruce approached.
"Yur late," the vampire placed both hands atop the table.
"I was busy," Bruce took a seat across from her.
"It's ok, you're here now."
He was in a tight spot, and the situation being what it was, there was no need to hold back. Wearing an invisible mask wasn't necessary, not with her. The vampire had connected the dots and solved the puzzle. Batman and Bruce Wayne were one. Billionaire playboy and successful businessman by day, and dark knight/world's greatest detective by night. He was very much at the vampire's mercy and could only take her word, no one else knew of his secret, but he didn't put much stock into the thought. Trust wasn't something that came easy, especially with him. Boxing his emotions and keeping even his closes allies at bay, was his way of fighting the war, his war, the war against corruption and injustice. For better or worse, it was his way of protecting them and would gladly give his life for his comrades, and her, Gotham city.
But in a blink, that has all potentially been jeopardized, everything he created, the emblem of the bat. There was nothing more crucial than concealing the one behind the cowl, Batman was to be faceless, but here she sat, a potential enemy unmasking the Batman and a powerful one at that. Beautiful, much like a flower on the outside, and within, she was a warrior of monstrous strength and killer instinct, a vampire of the legendary shinso bloodline! Her gorgeousness was almost deceptive, and always seemed the pretties of them were always the most dangerous. She wasn't someone he would silence, it wasn't the way he operated. His best option was to somehow convince the pink haired vampire to keep quiet about her findings, unlikely as that seemed.
"Are you folks ready to order," a waiter approached. "Would you like to try our Bruschetta, or hot wings? That is a customer favorite for starters?"
His voice brought Bruce back to reality.
"Sure, we'll have an order of your Bruschetta, and two ice waters," Bruce said.
"Great, be back in a few."
The waiter took off, and the vampire leaned forward with her elbows atop the table.
"Water, really," she looked him in the eyes. "You hoping I take a sip, suffocate and choke to death?"
The vampire smirked.
"You saw right through my plan, what shall I do now?" Bruce halfway grinned.
The exchange halfway lightened the mood, but her intentions still unclear, and it was impossible to see past her facade. He could only guess what went on inside her head, and just like that their eyes were deadlocked. The vampire stared into his dark blue eyes as he did the same back, her gaze freezing him much like a python does its prey, waiting for the moment to strike. He was sort of like the insect caught in her web, and it was just a matter of time before he was devoured. Akasha chuckled as she took her eyes off him.
"What is it?" Bruce asked.
"You're trying to read me, I can see it in your eyes, so much intensity, fire and uncertainty, hehe," the vampire positioned a hand over her lips.
Bruce looked her over intently, her attractiveness absolute, but it wasn't just that, but everything, from the way she talked, exhibited herself, down to her simplest gestures. She was a warrior, but not just any warrior, a warrior of the Dark Lords, a trio considered the most powerful of its time. The vampire guided the bunch, and she was its most powerful member, leading the charge in their defeat of Alucard, the most powerful yokai of all time.
"I ah," Bruce bit back, returning to reality. "What led to your findings?"
The question was direct and required no explanation, she knew exactly what he referred to, Akasha repositioning and looking him over. She had seen him numerous times before, whether that be through tabloids, newspapers, magazines, television or in person. The vampire didn't know him than, not like she did now. What was supposed to be a spoiled, arrogant, self-centered rich kid of stardom, was simply a flash in the pan. His boyish looks, charm and charisma drew actresses, models and women alike to him, much like a magnet. But it was his alter ego that captivated her attention, something about a demon like creature lurking in the shadows stocking criminals, got her blood flowing. They had their own sense of justice and shared the same dream of a better world, and despite those differences, they were warriors with a purpose, even if that end goal weren't the same. Akasha respected and appreciated him, more than she ever did.
"How did I find out you ask," a smile shaped over her lips. "It didn't come all at once, Bruce. A little something here, a little something there."
"Explain it to me," Bruce placed his hands together.
"The first, was the night you shared your blood with me, following the expo. A simple, yet small detail. I questioned you about the wound the next time we..."
"At Deltoliz Clubhouse, yes, I recall. I had no idea you paid attention to small details, the blue bandage, am I right?"
"Correct," Akasha nodded. "At the time I didn't quite make the connection, however. It wasn't until your attendance at Todd's fundraiser, I gained any traction. I found it odd you awaited him in his office, and then your sudden departure after limited conversation. And most importantly, Todd's computer."
"And that's why you showed at the ballroom."
"You're following right along," The vampire nodded. "Your next mistake, while innocent and caring, really got me thinking. We ordered drinks and when I brought a glass of water to my lips by accident, you stopped me. Of course you rebounded and changed the subject quickly, but the damage was already done, I knew then you were aware of my weakness to water and my vampire nature. Still, it wasn't enough to say you were Batman, an ally possibly, but no way in hell was this spoiled bachelor the dark knight of Gotham."
"Then what?" Bruce questioned.
"You stepped away and made a call and spoke the name Alfred. Typically it wouldn't mean much, just a simple name, right, but I thought back to a night or so before...and lo and behold, Batman mentioned that same name. It was just after you took on a group of thugs. You stood atop the roofs and secretly made a call to this Alfred."
Bruce recalled the incident, being the night she crept up on him.
"During your conversation with this Alfred, you mentioned a Celrink and the name Tate Wallace. You took off in route to that location, as did I."
"I was carless," Bruce tightened his fists.
"Perhaps, but I wouldn't say so. The atmosphere inside the ballroom was loud, music and loud activities all around. Any normal human wouldn't have picked up on your conversation, do remember I'm a vampire. We have a keen sense of smell and hearing, of course not to the level of a werewolf. They're our superiors in that category."
"Funny, neither of those details were listed in the bio I obtained."
Both shared a laugh and the mood lightened even more.
"And I'm sure you have an idea of what happened next. Batman showed up in place of where Bruce Wayne was headed. I watched you interrogate Tate, and then take off. There was nothing more to hear or see, Bruce Wayne was Batman, no matter how much I wanted to deny it."
"Disappointed?" Bruce asked.
"Maybe at first," Akasha acutely looked him in his eyes, "But could you blame me? That changed after I deduced what drove you, what brought about the Batman. But I want to hear it from your lips, it was them, wasn't it Bruce, your parents?"
His gaze fell over the table, before looking out a nearby window.
"Yes," Bruce answered, but without eye contact.
"I figured as much, but why a bat, it just seems so...I don't know, strange. And why put yourself in harm's way, you're the CEO of a billion dollar company, the most successful in this town or the next?" Akasha asked, but halfway felt she knew how he'd answer.
It felt as though minutes passed and Bruce didn't speak. She watched him closely, his eyes displaying an emptiness, and his expression equally as blank, and the vampire could feel his pain.
"So that I would never feel helpless or powerless again," Bruce looked her in the eyes with intensity. "I made a promise on the grave of my parents...that I would rid Gotham of the evil that stole them away. And what better way than to start an uproar through fear. I became my greatest fear and used it against my enemies, Gotham's criminals, I am her guardian. What you see before you is the mask, Bruce Wayne died in that alley alongside his parents; Batman is who I am an..."
"Enough!" Akasha grimaced.
Bruce's mouth dropped open, taken off guard by her tone, but it wasn't that which had him stumped, but rather her eyes! There was so much intensity and hurt in them.
"Don't say such things!" the vampire bit back, tears forming in her eyes.
She immediately moved her head to the left wiping them away.
"Akasha..." Bruce said gently, the concern evident in his tone.
"No, it's ok," she waved him off, forging a smile. "I'm alright."
"Are you sure?"
The vampire answered, extending her arms across the table, dropping her hands atop his. They were so warm, soft and her touch comforting, sending a strange sensation through his body, which brought about a feeling of butterflies from within. There were few that made him feel that way, but never in a simple touch.
"What you said couldn't be further from the truth, it pains me to hear words like that come from your mouth. Is that how you truly feel?"
"It's fact and I embraced it, long ago," Bruce replied.
Akasha lightly bit at her tongue and had she been close enough, would have slapped some sense into him. Bruce noticed the change in her expression, the vampire reacting negatively to his words. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath to calm herself, as her gaze fell upon him once more.
"You're either lost, or delusional. The real you isn't Batman, and perhaps maybe not even Bruce Wayne...but what I do know is for the first time, I'm speaking to him, the real you."
"What do you mean?"
"Batman is very much a mask, as you consider Bruce Wayne, but what's in between them, that's the real you. We're talking and having an honest conversation, no lies, hidden emotions, or playing a role. That wasn't the case before, was it? During the many encounters we had, whether it was as the cape crusader, or Gotham's prince, you lied and kept secrets from me, playing a part as both Bruce Wayne and Batman. But I've made the connection, the walls and masks have been torn down, and behind it all is a boy, or rather a young man that seeks to honor a promise, an impossible promise. But there are no more lies, deceit, putting on a persona...this is the real you Bruce, accept it, and embrace it."
Her words left him stunned and frozen, his mouth partially dropping. He took the vampire's words into consideration, dissecting every word and making sense of her overall point. Much as he wanted to fire back and dismiss her opinion, part of him couldn't disagree, only those closes to him truly knew the man behind the mask, and the list was short. She stared into his eyes, awaiting a reply and didn't appear she would look away until she got one. Bruce let out a sigh and smiled.
"Akasha," Bruce returned the gaze and in that moment felt a crack in his armor, but not physically speaking. It had everything to do with his inner feelings and keeping people out and away, his life and dedication to the mission, a dangerous war where loss and pain was unavoidable. But somehow and so unexpectedly, the walls were softening, and it was all because of her. "I...I don't know what to say."
The pink haired vampire smirked, flashing her eyelashes and feeling all warm and cuddly inside. It hit him like a train and if he didn't know it before, he did in that moment. Akasha was a very compassionate woman, and regardless of what she had done or said in previous encounters, Bruce was experiencing an entirely different side to her.
"Getting a bit romantic over here, huh?" the waiter returned with a tray.
Akasha immediately removed her hands from Bruce's, her cheeks turning a bright pink. Bruce halfway snickered as the waiter set the appetizer over the table.
"Sorry for the long wait, issues in the kitchen and lots of customers," the waiter scratched at his hair.
"It's no problem," Bruce said.
"Have you two decided on a main course yet?"
"Give us another couple minutes," Bruce replied.
"K, hope you enjoy, I'll be back shortly."
Even as he took off the vampire still blushed and Bruce couldn't help but stare, she looked adorable yet sexy, all wrapped in one package.
"What?!" Akasha glared, perceiving his stares.
"It's nothing," Bruce grinned, leaning back. "And since we've put it all on the table, no lies, no games...where is Kiria Yoshii, and what are you planning?"
The vampire's expression immediately shifted, taking on a more serious tone.
"You hacked Todd's system, didn't you?"
"Yes, but I haven't had the chance to look anything over, I was a bit under the weather. I was hoping you could save me some time."
Akasha was disinterested, that fact was clear in her body posture.
"I don't want to talk about any of that. I'm not playing both sides of the fence, or working as a double agent in your favor," The vampire lowered her eyes from his. "You're on your own."
"Then why all this? Why reveal to me what you have, secretly knowing my identity could have worked as a trump card in your favor, and I'm missing the point to this meeting."
The vampire twirled a strand of hair on the left side of her face, eying the plate between she and Bruce, taking one toasted bread slice into her hands, topped with tomatoes, basil, Parmesan cheese, and lastly vinegar and garlic. She brought the slice to her lips, the smell alone causing her to drool. Her face immediately lit up as she took it into her mouth and moaned.
"Yummy!" her eyes sparkled.
The first was so delightful, she took another between her fingers.
"You've got to try these, they're great."
She devoured the second almost as quickly as the first, taking in the exquisite taste and enjoyed every moment of it.
"You're dodging the question," Bruce glared.
She took another slice, but placed it in front of him.
"Have a bite, if you don't hurry there will be none left," Akasha offered.
Bruce forced her hand away, irritation in his eyes.
"You won't give up Kiria, well how about Morrigan, where is she?"
With glee, Akasha took the slice into her mouth and chewed away, the flavor and seasoning a superb, nearly perfect combo!
"Hhhhmmm, so very tasty," the vampire licked at her lips.
"Akasha!" Bruce forced his fists over the table, his patience growing thin.
"Sorry," the vampire blinked a couple times. "What were you saying?"
Bruce bit back, unsettled by her carefree tone. The vampire was completely in control and she made it clear, without being direct.
"You look flustered," Akasha dropped her elbows over the table and her hands together. "You shouldn't. I know what you're thinking, that I'm going to use my findings against you, but I won't, you have my word."
"You expect me to believe that? You've barely cooperated as is. And in my office, said you'd keep quiet, long as I was a good boy, which implies..."
"I meant nothing of it, how else would I have gotten you to willingly meet with me here. Oh and did you consider I don't know anything? The operation has been ran on secrecy, and I've only been given information little by little as things move along. I don't know what the end game is, and until then I'm not backing out."
"You would risk civilian lives?" Bruce frowned.
"You're making accusations, of course not, I might very well be a valuable ally when things unfold," Akasha smiled.
"Or enemy." Bruce countered.
Realizing the conversation was going south, the vampire let out a sigh. The point of the gathering had not yet been reached, but knew she needed to choose her words wisely and get her point across, and it was obvious trust wasn't something that came by the dark knight easily.
"Do you know why I called you here, and why I revealed to you what I knew? I've walked earth a really long time, longer than you could imagine, and I've witnessed and experienced many highs and many lows, and the way of mankind, how as a people they've evolved and conquered the impossible. But I've also seen humans continuously make the same mistakes over and over, raging war, innocents dying for no reason, discrimination and greed for wealth and power. Being that I am a vampire, my kind was hunted and beheaded, humans despised we yokais and monsters alike, but none more than vampires."
Bruce listened closely, unsure what she was getting at, but never the less didn't tune out for even a moment.
"Of course there were those of kindness, but even they were heavily outweighed by those of exploitation and evil. Somewhere along the way after decades and then centuries I realized one thing, the hatred and acrimony between yokai and humans had to be severed. There were those from both sides willing to make it work, but even more that didn't, so we stayed hidden...until five years ago."
"The battle with Alucard," Bruce said.
"Yes," the pink haired vampire nodded. "We were exposed on a national level, but I guess you could call it a blessing in disguise. Lots of progress has been made since then, so I guess what I'm trying to say is I've been through a lot, seen things I wish could be forgotten, uncountable relationships, lovers, good and bad, but through it all I never once encountered anyone, quite like you."
Akasha turned her head as the last words escaped her lips. Bruce felt his heart skip, but not sure what she intended by the remark, and if he should even take it as a compliment. Unlike before, he had a feel for who she was, the woman beneath the skin, it was an understanding that could not be reached by simply reading through a biography. She truly spoke from the heart, and he felt the vampire was sincere.
"I," she looked him in the eyes. "I applaud you, Bruce. There isn't anything about you not to like. Though I may not agree with all your tactics, and your way of operating...you're the closes thing to a hero there is. A young boy made a promise, and night after night Batman sees it through, and has the good of the people in mind. And by day Bruce Wayne does his part, charities, funding for schools, hospitals, orphans and transportation. Bruce Wayne is the prince of Gotham, as Batman is the king, twenty four seven, night and day, you're both Batman and Bruce Wayne, this city's protector."
"I'm no hero," Bruce shrugged.
"A lot of people would disagree, myself included. I'm attracted to you...and appearance aside, it has everything to do with the man you are, everything you represent. Whatever else is just a bonus," she winked.
Bruce bit back and adjusted his tie and looked over her face trying to deduce what she meant by the last remark. Was she teasing at interest in a potential relationship with him, or was it just flirtation, with no serious consideration or commitment.
"I don't know what you're implying, but don't. It would never work and I wouldn't allow it, you're a couple decisions away from being on my noddy list, a target in which I will take down. You better think long and hard about every decision you make from this point forward."
Akasha snickered in response to his comments.
"Do remember, you're speaking to one of the great Dark Lords, it is clear someone doesn't know his place. If I didn't adore you I'd have you on your knees, begging for your highnesses forgiveness. I'm practically the queen of vampires, so watch your tongue."
The pink haired vampire could be very sweet and caring, but also had her inner pride, something shared between all vampires. They quieted as the waiter returned and ordered the main course.
XXX
From afar someone observed a building, watching the final lights cease, her opportunity for the prize drawing near. With a purr, pulled down the goggles over her eyes and moved forward, grasping a whip in her right hand. She trotted toward the ledge and the whip came in handy, pulling her across and atop a neighboring building. She did so until she was directly across from where she needed to be. Breaking into and entering places undetected was her specialty, and she knew exactly what she wanted. Once she had her mind set on obtaining something, there was no stopping until it was in her possession. Her eyes peered around and she was surprisingly thrilled not a single security camera was present on the exterior.
Licking at her lips, the woman held the whip tightly and threw it out and swung off the ledge. She held on tightly and activated the sharpening of her claws, within her gloves. Hanging just outside a window on the sixth floor, she stabbed her claws into a section of it and cut out a large section in the form of a circle. Carefully pushing through and setting the large piece of glass aside, she adjusted the function within her lenses. From left to right, she looked but the prize nowhere in sight, that wasn't until her eyes fell over a picture hanging over a nearby wall. The individual dressed in all black, and goggles over her eyes pulled the picture out of place and licked at her lips.
"Puuuurrrrrrfect..."
Up and down someone else soared through the clouds, a passenger holding tight over her back. They had nothing planned for the night, so mutually agreed to go out and get some fresh air.
"Wheeeeeeeeeeeee!" the passenger expressed, as they elevated down through the clouds.
"Having fun?" the succubus gazed over her shoulder.
"Yes! Yes Morrigan, don't stop. Faster, keep going fast!"
"Your wish is my command," Morrigan's eyes peeked downward, taking in the sight of the landscape and skyscrapers.
Gotham was so beautiful from up high, quite the opposite of what truly manifested from within.
"Hang on tight," Morrigan grinned, giving her passenger a quick look.
"Aiye captain," Felicia said, cheerfully.
The succubus flapped her wings picking up speed, shooting upward, twirling and drifted from side to side. Felicia expressed her approval, shouting in joy and kicking her legs up. Morrigan chuckled and increased speed, twirling and spinning completely around and that's when the screams of her colleague, sent shockwaves up her spine.
"Oooopppps, hehe," the succubus chuckled nervously.
"Morrigan, help me!"
Felicia free fell through the air and Morrigan zipped downward grabbing at the cat's ankle, pulling her along and carefully touching down over a roof.
"You dropped me," tears trickled down her eyes. "I could have gotten killed!"
Felicia dropped her head and cried into her paws.
"Don't be ridiculous, you were airborne for only a moment," the succubus rolled her eyes.
Morrigan bit back when her friend showed no signs of stopping, and let out a sigh. She took a knee positioning beside Felicia, and wrapped her arms around the cat woman.
"There, there, it was only an accident. You know I would never intentionally put you in harm's way, we're besties aren't we?"
"Yeah," Felicia's eyes peered out from behind her paws.
She wrapped her arms around Morrigan and buried her face into the succubi's chest, her cries shifting to whimpers. With one hand Morrigan patted at her back, and that's when she noticed something out in the distance, something suspicious.
"Hhhmm, wonder what's happening over there."
"Huh?" Felicia pulled back.
"No more tears, you're so much cuter when happy," Morrigan removed the tears with a finger.
The cat woman's eyes immediately lit up and she smiled.
"Thanks Morrigan," she held the succubus tightly.
"Of course my dear," Morrigan ran a hand through her hair, "Let's go check it out."
"What?" Felicia inquired with curious eyes.
"There," Morrigan pushed back and pointed. "Hop on."
The succubus leaned forward and arched her back. Felicia situated on her and firmly wrapped her arms around Morrigan's neck, as they took off. Morrigan flapped her wings and they shot through the sky and were upon the building in seconds.
"Just as I thought," Morrigan whispered, eying a large portion of a window missing.
Slowly hovering downward, Morrigan passed through the window and Felicia dropped to her feet. The space was dark, but their eyes quickly adjusted, and at about the same time both set eyes on someone in a corner of the room.
"Bingo!" the unknown pulled open what looked to be a safe.
She was dressed in all black, the material latex, and a mask with cat like ears and goggles over her eyes. Taking one step forward, Morrigan raised an eyebrow. The individual before them carried a small bag connected to her whip, in which she pulled jewelry and diamonds from the safe, dropping the items into the bag. Everything was placed into the bag, all except for one item and she held that single ruby up high. It was almost the size of her hand.
"Purrfect."
Felicia coughed aloud, startling the woman opposite of her and Morrigan. She jumped into a defensive stance and was ready to defend herself if. Her mindset changed after getting a clear view of both, more than obvious they weren't part of security. The first wore a sleeveless black bustier top adorned with white feathers and small heart cut out of the midriff, purple nylons decorated with bat patterns, black boots and bat like wings extending from her back and the sides of her head. Lastly was her long green hair and eyes. The one opposite of her had long blue hair, her legs and arms covered by white fur, cat ears, paws as hands and feet and long white tail. Their appearances were beyond strange and she didn't know what to think.
"Halloween came early," she uttered, the first thought coming to mind.
"Uhm, are you stealing? Cause it looks a lot like that, you shouldn't do that," Felicia said.
The woman opposite of them giggled, dropping the ruby into the bag.
"And just who are you characters?"
She could barely hold in her laughter. They were strangely dressed, but another question was how they managed to get into a room a six floors high without using the entrance door, the cat burglar more than sure the room was empty during her break in. Certainly those wings couldn't be real, she contemplated eying Morrigan's wings.
"Put it all back, thief!" Felicia snapped.
It was Morrigan's turn to chuckle, humored by her colleague's choice of words and overall innocents. But just who was the woman standing opposite of them, most her features covered except her mouth.
"Knew I heard voices," the main entrance door was kicked open, the lights snapping on and seven security persons marching through, "It's Catwoman and...and I don't know who the hell those two are."
"Who gives a shit, take them all down."
"Look, dammit," one pointed the open safe. "She's made away with Eyui's goods!"
"Drop the bag Catwoman, or suffer the consequences."
"You boys are always so quick to point your weapons and threaten a woman, can't we talk this out like civilized people?"
"You have till the count of five, starting now. Five...four...three..."
Catwoman threw out her whip and disarmed the guard of his weapon, and others fired off at her. Her elusiveness and flexibility came into play, eluding and dodging the gunfire. Morrigan didn't know much about the masked woman, but the succubus loved her spunk and ultimately decided to step in! The bullets deflected off her wings, using them as a shield to cover her body.
"Lower your weapons, you don't want to fight me, I am a goddess you want to love and worship me," Morrigan's eyes glowed.
For that split second, each of the guards were caught in her aura and effected, each dropping their weapons. Catwoman raced toward the window, but looked back to a strange sight. Each of the seven guards surrounded Morrigan and were touching and grabbing at her body! One kissed at her neck and another at her cleavage, and a third grabbed and squeezed her butt. Catwoman could hardly believe her eyes and it was in that instant she knew that was no ordinary woman.
"Gentlemen, bow before your queen," Morrigan commanded.
"Yes, your majesty," each said at once, almost robotic like.
Morrigan stepped away as each positioned on their knees and looked back to Felicia, but by then the masked woman was gone.
"Let's go Felicia."
"Why did you help her, she was stealing?!"
"Just a feeling," the succubus sided beside her friend. "They referred to her as Catwoman. First the Batman and now her...Gotham is filled with all sorts of surprises, I'm really going to love it here."
"You aided a crook!" Felicia glared.
"Don't give me that look sweetie bun."
"Don't call me that!"
The cat woman crossed her arms, facing the opposite way in an effort to show her displeasure. Morrigan giggled, realizing how adorable Felicia could be, even when angered.
"Come, that trans will last for only another ten minutes before they're back to normal," Morrigan stared at her close friend, who didn't budge in the slightest. "How about I make it up to you, how does cake and ice cream sound?"
"Cake and ice cream, really?!" Felicia looked to Morrigan.
"Anything for you."
"Yaaaay, yur the greatest!"
Felicia hopped onto Morrigan's back and she leaped through the way they entered, but neither was aware of the hidden cameras throughout the room, all of their activity captured on tape.
XXX
"You still seem skeptical, are you not convinced. I've said it time and again, I'm not who you should concern yourself with, and you're one of the last people I'd lay a finger on. You're a good man, a soldier in every sense of the word."
The pink haired woman leaned against a blue vehicle, and across from her the CEO of the most successful corporation in the city.
"Trust is something to be earned, and it doesn't come by easily. You've given me no reason to trust you, no mention of Morrigan's whereabouts, Kiria's plan, or who else is involved."
"It's complicated, Bruce," she looked him off.
"Only because you're making it that way," Bruce frowned.
Her gaze fell over the cement surface beneath her feet, so many thoughts venturing through her mind. There was a lot more she knew, than she was willing to reveal. It was similar to her stance with Tsukune and Moka, the less she spoke, the better, until clarity of the end objective was without question.
"Tonight was a breath of fresh air, it's been a long time since I've been out, on a date," Akasha grinned.
"This wasn't a date!" Bruce clarified.
"Whatever you say. I'm sorry things are the way they are, but I can't compromise my position. I've got my agenda and will continue to follow orders until I deem it otherwise against my interest, as well as innocents. You're on the defense, a game of read and react, and much as I'd love to side with you...I cannot, at least not yet."
"They're bad people, whatever they're planning will put dozens in danger, why can't you see that?! I've said this once before, yes you're a yokai, but you aren't like them, please make the right decision."
"I am," Akasha wrapped her left leg around his waist, pulling him close and positioned her hands over his shoulder. Her emerald colored eyes had a certain look to them, almost hypnotizing and irresistible. "May I have another taste?"
"Taste?" Bruce raised an eyebrow. "Taste of what?"
Akasha snickered.
"Come silly," the vampire ran a finger over his lips. "Isn't it obvious?"
Situating on the tips of her toes, the vampire trailed her lips over his right cheek and down past his jaw. He knew exactly what she wanted, but by then was already too late, her fangs piercing through his neck. He held her firmly with an arm wrapped around her waist, the vampire giving off a sweet fragrance, one similar to Escada Cherry perfume. The scent matched her beauty, and his body reacted similarly to her bite as it did before in the office, arousal and in a zone, as if floating on nothingness above the clouds. The vampire pulled back after taking in a satisfying amount, making eye contact with him once more.
"I could drink your blood all night, it's so splendid!" her cheeks turned pink.
She removed her leg from around him and Bruce stepped back.
"We'll talk again soon, thanks for dinner and dessert." The vampire chuckled, referring not only to the meal, but his blood.
He grabbed at her wrist as she opened the door to her vehicle.
"What is it?" she looked at him curiously.
"It...it's nothing," he released his hold of her. "Goodnight."
"Goodnight, Bruce," Akasha replied warmly.
Bruce watched the vehicle take off out of the parking lot and onto the main road, and was left with a feeling of incompleteness. The vampire knew more than she let on, he was sure of it, but that didn't make her the enemy.
"Are you busy?" Akasha phoned her personal servant.
"How can I help, madam?"
"Have you dug up all Bruce Wayne's scheduled public appearances yet, specifically through the next couple days? If you have any troubles, just contact Todd."
"Will do, madam. I'm in the process of compiling a list."
"Thank you."
As the vampire drove along, something came to mind, or rather someone, the love of her life and Moka's father. She was presumed dead and they weren't officially together, and she held the title of a Dark Lord, her power and rank well over his own. If she was to go through with what her feelings were guiding her to do, it would be no different than what he did. She was falling for Gotham's favorite son, and of all things he was human!
XXX
She carried a brown paper bag over her left shoulder and a key to the apartment complex in her opposite hand. She stopped short of the door, her vampire senses picking up on a nearby presence, the presence of another yokai.
"Gin," the vampire looked to her left as the werewolf revealed himself, from around a corner.
"Good evening Moka."
She took her eyes off him and unlocked the door to her apartment.
"Mind if I come in?" Gin asked.
"As a matter of fact, I do. Go away."
Moka pulled the door open, but before it closed Gin raced forward and through the entrance.
"Did you not hear what I said?" Moka frowned, gazing back at him.
"Yeah, yeah," Gin waved her off.
Into the kitchen, Moka dropped the bag over the countertop and Gin sat atop a couch in the living room, making himself right at home. The vampire rolled her eyes as his clear intent to hang around.
"What do you want?" the vampire inquired, a glare in her eyes.
"You've been distancing yourself from us," Gin sat upright, looking at the vampire directly. "Look, I don't know what happened between you and Tsukune, nor do I care to know, that's your own business. The two of you need to sort things out and get back on good terms, we need to all work together."
"Leave!" the vampire hissed.
"Moka, this is Fairy Tale we're talking about! We need all hands on deck, and Tsukune told us you're needed in all this somehow. Yoshii Kiria's unexpected appearance in the yokai realm was so that they could get their hands on you, any idea why?" the werewolf asked.
The vampire removed a couple dozen items from the bag, all of which were cooking materials and proceeded to remove frozen meat from the refrigerator. It quickly became apparent she was preparing a meal, during which she tuned him out completely. It was late and he was without patience, clinching his fists.
"Put your pride and stubbornness aside for once! Kurumu-chan and I have done nothing to upset you, and yet you've been cold towards us. And you're all Tsukune talks about, he didn't say what, but he's apologized over and over, leaving messages on your cell which you haven't returned. Separated as we are, with so much disconnect isn't going to help us. Tsukune is ready to talk things out, whenever you're ready. Sleep on it and make a decision, we need you, just as much as you do us. Remember that."
Though the vampire didn't reply, or acknowledge that she heard his words, Moka took what he said into consideration. She loved Tsukune more than anything and even after walking in on him and her mother, nothing changed. And the longer they were apart, the more irritated she became. Perhaps Gin was right, after all she couldn't stay mad at him forever and he'd already apologized several times. The werewolf stood from the couch and walked toward the exit, more than clear Moka wasn't interested in talking.
"Gin...wait."
He froze at her voice, Moka's tone soft and gentle, which was a rarity. It was common with her outer side lost in the battle five years back, but not with her.
"What is it?" he turned, facing her.
"Are you hungry?"
Gin was taken off guard by the question and scratched at the side of his head.
"Sure, yes I guess so."
"Would you like to stay for dinner?"
Now that was strange, Moka inviting him to stay for dinner. Just a moment ago she wanted him out and didn't respond to a thing he said.
"I don't see why not. Kurumu-chan is under the impression I returned to the hotel for the night, guess shut eye can wait." he returned to the sofa, taking a seat
From out of the refrigerator Moka took a bag of green peppers and carrots into her hand, setting both items over the counter.
"What has Tsukune said about me?" Moka looked to Gin.
The gates to Wayne Manor opened and a black vehicle pulled up in front of the residence.
"Good evening sir, how were things at the office?" Alfred greeted Bruce as entered through the front door. "You're expected to attend Rolly World tomorrow afternoon, and the day after that the Gotham NGX T race, and lastly the golf event."
His surrogate father went silent, watching Bruce place his jacket over the coat rack and pace back and forth. He knew Bruce all too well, and was evident something bothered him, but didn't want to press the issue so waited. Bruce took a seat in the living room, running a hand over his face.
"Alfred..."
"Yes, sir?" the butler positioned beside the sofa.
"She...she knows who I am. Akasha knows my secret."
"Oh dear!" Alfred's eyes widened.
XXX
It was a pleasant afternoon, the temperature a little over seventy eight degrees, partly cloudy and the sun glimmering bright. Families mingled the park, enjoying the festivities and activities all throughout. He was in attendance for a good cause, and it was strangely his first time stepping foot inside Rolly World.
"Mister Wayne," a business man approached. "Thought I recognized you from all the way over there."
"Howard Pulk," Bruce shook hands with the individual. "Small world."
"It's been far too long, but it's great to see your face. Carol told me you'd be attending and I was ecstatic, I was really looking forward to Wayne Industry's reveal at the expo, a real pity what happened."
"Yes," Bruce nodded. "I've helped with the compensation for those affected and will continue to do so. Tragedy is inevitable in the world we live in, but I'm working towards building a city where it's less common."
"In a place like Gotham," the one opposite of him laughed and lightly punched at Bruce's left shoulder. "Good luck with that."
"Yes, I've got quite the task ahead of me, I'll need all the good vibes and luck I can get."
"Indeed, you've got my support. The Wayne's have always been a bright spot in Gotham for generations, and you've done a marvelous job carrying the torch. Anyhow, I've got things to do, people to meet. Good talking, and I look forward to future reveals."
Patting Bruce over the shoulder, the business man took off meeting with others beside a hot dog stand. The carnival visit was just about what he expected, meeting with known associates and a couple new faces as well. Bruce was dressed in dark dress pants, a white shirt with collar, a gray sweater atop it halfway buttoned, white shoes and gold watch.
"Mister Wayne!"
Bruce looked to his left as an unknown man and woman approached.
"Sorry to bother you, but we'd like a picture," the man said.
"Of course," Bruce smiled.
The two positioned on both sides of the billionaire CEO and the photo was snapped from a phone.
"Thanks a lot," the woman thanked.
"Don't mention it," Bruce grinned.
They took off quickly as they came and Bruce gazed down at the watch over his wrist, already five minutes after 1:00 PM. establishing a social life and being present during public events was essential to ridding unwanted suspicion. He stood against a wall with both hands in his pockets, eyes on a merry go round across the way. The families looked to be enjoying themselves, specifically the children, and the sight of it brought into question how things would have been had they not been taken. Would his smile be so bright, a true smile with no hidden anguish and pain?
"Bruce."
A delicate voice brought him from his thoughts, a woman approaching. She carried a black purse, wearing a red tank top, blue jeans jacket atop it left unbuttoned, black skirt, dark stockings covering her legs and light brown boots. And lastly was a silver bracelet, black neck choker and red bow tied in her hair.
"Akasha!" Bruce pulled his hands from out of his pockets.
"Good afternoon Bruce," her smile was lovely as usual.
"What are you doing here?" Bruce asked, but halfway already knew the answer.
"Last night was great, and it just so happens business buddies of Todd are here, so figured I'd stop by."
"To see me," Bruce grinned.
"I suppose there's no hiding it, yes," Akasha returned the smile.
She took another couple steps positioning in front of him, her scent that of a rose and her expression warming.
"Let's go for a walk."
Arms intertwined, she pulled him along as they walked through the park. What she was to him was unclear, but he couldn't deny his ever growing feelings, much as he tried fighting against them.
"Bruce," the vampire said in almost a whisper.
"Yes."
"Through our conversations last night, there was something I forgot to ask," she paused for a moment, taking a deep breath. "Why do you allow them to live...the criminals? You send them packing to an asylum or prison, seemingly waiting for the time that comes when they hit parole just to do it all over again. If you really wanted to fix this city, you're going about it wrong."
Bruce let out a sigh collecting his thoughts, knowing the question would arise sooner or later.
"And if I were to kill, what would that make me? No different than any of them, and you're partly wrong. I've kept tabs on those I've sent away and you'd be surprised by those that have done a lot of good once serving their time. And take into account families, these criminals are people Akasha, a majority of which have loving families. If I were to go on a killing spree eliminating each criminal I deemed was deserving of the death penalty, what of their loved ones? Say I kill a man, and left behind is his son, or perhaps daughter, and that person is their only caretaker. They would have no one, nothing, except sorrow and pain. I would have stolen away the only thing they had, just as what was take from me...in an alley twenty years ago. I would be exactly as the coward that gunned down the two people in my life that meant everything to me. People deserve redemption and second chances, I'm no god and won't pretend to be one, and it isn't my place to decide who lives and dies."
Akasha's mouth dropped open and her steps suspended followed by his, the vampire taking in everything he said. Even if she disagreed with his methods, Akasha had no counter, his points were solid and very understandable. She couldn't help but smile, running the side of her face against his, which as a result Bruce bit at his tongue, taking in her sweet cherry like scent into his nostrils.
"Not that I haven't said it already, but you're a good man, you truly are," she said happily, looking him in the eyes.
They stayed that way for a while, until Akasha looked away and took his hand into her own. The walk continued, but it was a feeling unlike before. He'd been in dozens of relationships and he and the vampire weren't officially dating, but being with her, holding hands like they did, brought about a hidden emotion, a feeling a young teenage boy gets on his first date. It was something he had never truly experienced, an ever morphing companionship that was growing into something so much more. There was no hiding who he was with her, the vampire knew full and well of his mission, and accepted both Bruce Wayne and Batman. With her, Bruce could be himself without putting on an act. The feeling was comforting, and only with a select few others were things that way.
"I have a question?"
"Sure," Akasha replied.
"Tenmei Mikogami, Touhou Fuhai and you were given the title Dark Lords, after your defeat of Alucard. What did the three of you gain following the battle?"
His mention of her closes comrades didn't surprise Akasha, he was one of the most resourceful people around.
"Our reputation was second to none back in those days, we were praised and worshiped like gods in the yokai world. With that came riches, each of us maintaining large portions of land, responsible for looking over and protecting our own territory. A castle was built and it became my home for years. The three of us never strayed away, even with our own set agendas, we maintained a healthy relationship. I would always travel between the yokai and human world. Humans fascinated me, though most despised us."
"I see, and what of your love life? You mentioned having numerous lovers during our chat last night."
The vampire giggled as they continued along.
"You interested in my love life, now that's a surprise."
"If you don't want to talk about i..."
"No, it's fine Bruce," the vampire smirked. "I've lived a really long time as I've stated, over five hundred years in counting. I was always searching for the one, trying to fill an emptiness that would make me whole. I was intimate with many of my lovers, but none lasted for long and then it was on to the next, searching and hoping the next would be the one. Do you think differently of me?"
"I'm not judging," Bruce smirked.
"It wasn't until I met him, that I found true love. He was dazzling, dark, mysterious, and all the female vampires crushed over him. It was like love on first sight, our eyes impasse, standing on opposite sides of the dance floor. We met right in the middle of the ballroom and danced for what felt like hours. I still remember like it was yesterday. He was so alluring and charming, I couldn't get enough of him. And then the first time we made love, ooooohhhhhh! I still remember the cool night air, doves flying about through the cloudy atmosphere, not a care in the world. It was just after a performance onstage, we watched a play, but I don't remember what about. We walked the dirt roads, holding hands, nothing else existing except the two of us, that's how it felt. He carried me up the steps into a cottage just past a farm, frogs crooking and a lake nearby, everything else history. I had never been dominated like that, organism after organism! I can still feel his touch, his lips against mine, our bodies connected and the sound of horse carriages passing by outside during our love making. It was one of the greatest nights of my life."
"Issa Shuzen," Bruce stopped, pulling his hand away from hers.
Akasha looked at him with regret in her eyes, letting out a sigh.
"Sorry, I went too far...but yes, it was Issa, Moka's father. Unfortunately our relationship didn't have a story book ending. Issa was a true ladies man, and myself alone wasn't enough to satisfy his desires."
"He slept around?" Bruce asked, leaning against a railing and the vampire standing opposite of him.
"Yes. I thought maybe my title as a Dark Lord would make him see only me, but I was wrong. Even after I gave birth to Moka, nothing changed, but I never stopped loving him. Deep down, he cared for me, and loved his daughter."
"I read somewhere it was your goal to unite humans and yokai alike, to create a better world. You felt both sides could benefit from each other. So I guess my final question is this," Bruce took a deep breath. "Were any of your lovers, human?"
The question brought about an invisible electricity up her spine. Was he interested in a relationship with her, why else inquire about specifics? Akasha entertained the idea and couldn't hold back a smile.
"No, and that had everything to do with the state of things between humans and vampires. My relationships consisted of mostly vampires, but there were other yokai beings I romanced. That said, I certainly wouldn't reject the notion of being intimate with a human," the vampire walked forward, dropping her hands over the railing, the lower part of her body against his own. Her face was just inches from his and could feel her breath against his lips, the hairs on his back rising. "Especially if he was to capture my heart."
Motionless, Bruce tightened his grip over the railing, his heart pumping ten times normal it seemed! How was she doing this to him!
"A little close aren't we?"
Akasha immediately pushed away at a voice and a woman approached.
"Alliya," Bruce moved from the railing, approaching her.
"What are you doing with Todd's errand girl?"
"A business discussion. She simply brought to my attention some of what Todd, had to offer but I kindly disapproved. I'm not interested in a partnership, as you know."
"And that's what I wanted to speak with you about," Alliya locked her arms with Bruce and pulled him away from Akasha. "I think you should reconsider Todd's offer."
"Alliya," Bruce spoke with disbelief in his eyes.
"Hear me out," Alliya replied.
The vampire heard the exchange and in that instant one thing became clear, Todd was sleeping with Alliya! It made perfect sense. She walked in on the two making out in Todd's office days ago, and felt it was retribution for the type of man Bruce Wayne was, but that was before she discovered who he truly was. Todd was no doubt using Alliya to try and get the partnership with Wayne Industries, and the thought of it made Akasha feel sick to her stomach. She watched both Bruce and Alliya disappear into the crowds and the vampire clinched her fists. He was too good to be toyed with and led on.
"She doesn't deserve you, I'm going to expose Alliya for the slut she is and then I'll have you all too myself...Bruce," Akasha thought silently.
She wouldn't force him into doing anything he didn't want, but felt strongly he was falling for her, the vampire could see it in his eyes.
XXX
"Hello," the vampire knocked at the door. "Morrigan, are you in there? It's Kahlua, do you have a minute?"
She knocked some more but got no answer, but from around the corner approached the cat woman, finishing the last of a sundae and licking her paws.
"Oh hey Felicia, you seen Morrigan around?" Kahlua asked cheerfully.
"Thought she was locked up in her room."
"I've tried knocking and calling, but nothing. And she's made it clear none of us are to go in her room," the vampire replied.
Siding with Kahlua, Felicia called out to the succubus but with the same result. The vampire bit back as Felicia positioned a paw over the doorknob.
"But she..."
"Sssshhhh," the cat woman cut Kahlua off. "It'll be alright, she and I are besties."
She slowly pushed the door open calling out to the succubus, but she wasn't there. Felicia flipped on the lights and her mouth slightly lowered, Kahlua's eyes widening. The cat woman stepped through and Kahlua's attempt to stop her failed, so entered as well.
"Uhhmm," the vampire looked all around, and one thing became very clear. "Someone's got an unhealthy obsession."
"Don't you know who he is?" Felicia looked to the vampire.
"Humor me."
"Wow, you really don't know," Felicia chuckled. "It's the Batman! Some say he's a vampire, others refer to him as a demon from hell, but in short he hunts the really bad people of Gotham."
"Batman huh," Kahlua took another look around, surveying the room entirely. "It's obvious your friend gushes over him, just look at this place! We should really leave before she finds us, uninvited."
The walls were painted purple and black, a Batman fathead over the left wall, another on an adjacent wall, newspaper articles of the cape crusader on the opposite wall. The pillow cases were of the bat symbol, four Batman plush dolls atop the bed, and a Batman lava lamp visible over the dresser beside the bed. The blankets were also of Batman merchandise, and though they didn't notice when entering, a small Batman carpet was at the entrance.
"What do you think?"
The hairs on Felicia's back rose and Kahlua bit down over her tongue, both slowing turning and facing Morrigan who entered through the open entrance.
"Sorry for trespassing," Kahlua immediately apologized.
"No, no," the succubus waved her off sitting atop the bed's end. "It's no big deal, how can I be of service?"
Kahlua opened her mouth to speak, but was cut off by Felicia.
"What is all this," the cat woman jumped into bed beside the succubus.
Letting out a snicker, Morrigan dropped back over the bed.
"Kahlua, lights."
The succubus only halfway looked at the vampire and Kahlua complied, flipping off the lights. Morrigan clapped her hands and a glowing bat symbol caught the attention of both the vampire and Felicia, occupying 1/4 of the ceiling.
"Morrigan, why?" Felicia asked.
"Listen honey, there are two types of men. Ones for satisfying my pleasures, essentially my toys, expendable...but then there's that one out of a million. Our run in was exhilarating, I hadn't felt that galvanized in a long time! We succubi thrive on lust, seducing and taking the seed of our partners for stimulus and energy, or for the sake of pleasure. No other species match our sex drive, it isn't even close. I have yet to choose a mate, and of course there have been plenty of suiters presented before me back in Makai."
"Wait, don't tell me you're..."
"Perhaps, maybe...but I would first have to peek inside his inner being, and there from within will I know if he's the one. And if not, well...he could serve as a play mate or maybe even slave," Morrigan licked at her lips, thinking dirty thoughts. "Oh I'm so bad! Tonight is the night I will seek him out, once more."
"Oh really, can I go too!" Felicia placed her paws together, her eyes pleading.
"Of course dear," Morrigan reached back, squeezing one of the pillows over her chest.
The way in which she spoke about him, the vampire became interested, wanting to know more about the dark knight. But more significantly there was an important task at hand that needed sorting out, Kahlua coughing and getting the attention of both.
"Clearly Felicia hasn't brought it to your attention, but one out of the eight keys has been located," the vampire informed.
The succubus sat upright giving Kahlua her undivided attention.
"Go on."
XXX
The conversation with Gin the previous night was uplifting, and was great to hear things from his perspective. Nor he or Kurumu was aware of what transpired between her and Tsukune, the details of their isolation a mystery. The involvement Akasha and even the fact the Dark Lord was back in the world of living had yet to be brought to their attention. Eventually they'd get around to it, and she'd have to face her mother again, the reunion sure to be edgy after what the older vampire did with Tsukune. She couldn't hold a grudge or stay mad at either and she was ready to make amends with Tsukune. Her shift had just ended and was less than a block from her place, expecting a call from him any minute. Both she and Tsukune agreed to meet and settle things. After only another step, the silver haired vampire slowed up, a dark shadow looming over her.
"You!" she looked towards the rooftops.
"Get dressed."
Moka stared at the dark figure clad in silver armor, glowing white eyes, black gloves and boots, gold utility belt, cape and cowl with bat symbol over the chest.
"When you're ready, meet me there," Batman pointed to an alley across the street.
The knight disappeared from view, and Moka picked up the pace, eager to see what the cape crusader had. His mention of information regarding Kiria Yoshii during their last encounter had her blood going, eager to gain intel, having nothing to that point. Once inside the apartment, her cell vibrated and his name was visible on the caller ID.
"Sorry Tsukune."
Their meeting would have to wait, the vampire pushing open her closet door and stripping down to her underwear. She dressed into her armor and went straight to the meeting spot, but the alley completely empty. Her heart jumped at a thunderous sound, the familiar armored vehicle appearing from around the corner, the headlights of the batmobile shinning bright and almost blinding.
"Get in."
The top slid open as the lights clicked off and the vampire didn't have to be asked twice, hopping in and buckling up. It was her second time sitting inside the vehicle, and the feeling of awe remained, just as the first ride. They were out onto the main road and speeding through uptown Gotham.
"Ok, where we headed?" the vampire looked to Batman.
"Wear this," the dark knight handed her a long piece of cloth.
Moka looked at it curiously and raised an eyebrow, beneath her mask.
"Excuse me?"
"We're going somewhere private, hidden, somewhere that must remain a secret. Tie that over your eyes."
"And if I don't?" the vampire asked.
"Would you prefer the alternative?"
The depth of his tone was dubious and the vampire decided she'd rather not take the alternative, rolling her eyes and did exactly as he asked. The remainder of the ride was pitch black, blinded by the cloth, bumps and turns here and there. Before she knew it, the vehicle slowed coming to a complete stop and the engine shutting off.
"We're here," Batman removed the cloth from her eyes, the top of the vehicle sliding open.
Batman was the first out, Vampire Bat following him off the steel ramp and onto a concrete surface. Her initial thought was a cave, in fact she was certain of it; they were definitely inside a cave! Bats hung from the ceiling, seemingly communicating amongst each other. Her eyes wondered, taking notice of a massive T-rex statue, oversized coin, machinery hanging from sections of the ceiling, additional vehicles and weaponry on display, bat suits displayed behind glass containers and a super computer at the center of it all, dozens of screens occupying a portion of space.
"Wow!" Moka whispered.
The vampire could barely believe her eyes, it was astonishing, and she'd never seen anything like it! It further brought into question, just who was behind the cowl, the environment similar to something out of a Sci Fi film. The dark knight started up the system via, voice command and the vampire was again impressed, the surface beneath them lighting up.
"This is incredible," Moka looked around observing everything in depth, before her eyes ultimately fell upon him. "I've never seen anything like this…is this your fortress?!"
Eyes locked in on screen, he navigated to a specific file giving no reply. During his departure, he informed Alfred of the potential guest so didn't worry about any possible interruptions.
"This is what I wanted to speak with you about," Batman pointed to the screen.
Moka stepped forward taking a look for herself, but it was then both perceived another set of footsteps, and the vampire instinctively jumping behind the dark knight.
"About time you returned," someone approached from the long staircase, dressed in black armor, black mask over his eyes and a blue falcon like symbol over the chest. "Alf...ooohhh."
The individual took notice of the woman standing behind the cape crusader, but it was clearly not Batgirl or Batwoman, though her gear was similar in design.
"Nightwing..." Batman murmured.
"Who's the girl?" Nightwing grinned.
"What're you doing here?" Batman glared.
"What do you think, I'm here to help. I'm not going to remain a background piece while you take on this new enemy all by your lonesome."
Moka stepped from behind Batman, blinking and almost certain she'd seen him somewhere. She then recalled Batman addressing him as Nightwing and thought back to passed research. Her attention however was disrupted, looking to a glass case, but not of a bat suit, it was of another beside it. Nightwing and Batman watched closely as she walked across the cave and up the steps, situating in front of a specific glass case.
"Thought this looked familiar," the vampire looked to Batman, "This is the uniform of Robin, isn't it!"
She had read articles and seen photos of the boy wonder battling crime beside the dark knight. Batman frowned and gave no reply, Moka immediately stepping down from the upper section and rejoining the two masked heroes.
"Who is she, boss?" Nightwing whispered.
"Vampire Bat," Moka answered, hearing him clearly.
"Vampire Bat huh," Nightwing looked her up and down, admiring every inch of her being, the vampire built like a doll, the ideal body and athletic structure and great curves. "I like it, the name suits you. You're welcome to drink my blood anytime. You know, vampire, I mean in your name…"
Moka wasn't amused by his joke and rolled her eyes. Who was he to make light of her? He was out of line and if he said or did something else out of line, she wouldn't hesitate to show him his place!
"Anyhow," Nightwing looked to Batman. "I thought you were working this whole case alone, so what's little miss Vampire girl doing here? In fact, where did she even come from?"
Nightwing looked back and forth between Moka and Batman, the dark knight letting out a sigh. For the time being he couldn't force Grayson away, there was no choice but to include him, at least for the briefing.
"Both of you, listen carefully," Batman faced the primary computer screen. "I obtained files from a man by the name Todd Heinstan."
"Todd Heinstan, rich guy CEO of Driafigura Corp? Yup, heard of the guy, what about him?" Nightwing inquired.
"He's involved with the new enemy, Kiria Yoshii," Batman added.
At just the mention of his name, Moka bit at her tongue and her fists clinched.
"Kiria...who?" Nightwing stepped forward.
"Yoshii Kiria, the current commander of Fairy Tale, an organization that aims to disturb the peace and rule over the human world. The organizations consists of powerful yokai," Moka informed.
"Yokai?" Nightwing questioned.
"Japanese monsters, and Kiria is a chimera. His nature and abilities are based off the cells of Alucard, the beast that was all over television five years back during the battle in Japan."
Nightwing took a moment thinking back and shook his head.
"I remember, and shortly thereafter the monsters living amongst us revealed themselves to the world."
"Yes," Batman returned his gaze to the computer screen. "Todd Heinstan is helping fund Fairy Tale, and providing resources to them as well as the one running the show, who is unidentified for the time being. What you're looking at is information I decoded, uploaded from Todd's personal computer. The enemy seeks to find the eight Drocgoeus, keys constructed of magical matter and when brought together will open a gate...to somewhere or something. This gateway is somewhere in the city."
"Which is why they've come to Gotham," Moka shook her head with clear understanding. "Any idea where this gateway is or the keys?"
Batman shook his head.
"No, but I might know someone that can help. But that isn't all, the next bit is unclear but the steps states a special sacrifice is needed to complete the unlocking."
"A corpse?" Nightwing implied.
"Likely, but I can't say for certain and based on the listed specs once this gateway is unlocked a shockwave or something similar will erupt, covering a fifty mile radius."
"Shockwave?" Vampire Bat and Nightwing gazed at one another, and then back at the cape crusader.
"Yes, Gotham could possibly be wiped out entirely along with other surrounding cities and landmarks. The specs imply that once the gateway is opened this action will occur, and it is best we assume the worst, an explosion. The gate is referred to as Vheuto lazz, but anything outside of that isn't stated. The head guy might be the only one that holds in depth information and perhaps those working closes with him or her."
Vampire Bat and Nightwing had their eyes glued to the screen, Batman switching to a map out of the city.
"Three points are marked, all of which bordering Gotham and creating a triangular shape. These locations surely hold some importance and I will visit each, and find out what."
"Yeah but, what of those words," Nightwing pointed to the screen, "Three Qcvaues, Essternound, Barbados, halt?"
"Don't know, but I will find out. Our objective is to search for and locate the keys before they do. If we can even obtain one of these keys and keep it away from them, they will have no way of completing their task. Once we've done that, we'll focus our efforts on deducing the entirety of their plan."
"You're ahead of the game as usual, I'd expect nothing less," Nightwing grinned.
An alarm went off and the three looked to the screen, the map out replaced by the word "Alert" in large red letters.
"Requesting backup, numerous gunshots fired, three officers wounded! Again, requesting backup, shootout is taking place in front of Gel's Plaza!"
It was a message intercepted from the Gotham City police radio.
"Last one there's a dirty rat!"
Nightwing took off toward his bike, parked in a corner of the cave.
"Nightwing, wait!" Batman shouted.
Whether he heard or elected not to listen was unknown, but Nightwing stepped on the gas and raced out of the cave. The circumstance being what it was, Batman had no choice but to allow Moka to tag along.
"Let's go."
Batman raced toward the batmobile and Vampire Bat followed, and out of the cave the cloth was tied around her eyes. He pulled the fabric from her eyes once in town and the vampire leaned back, hands behind her head and boots propped up over the section of the airbag.
"Legs and feet down." Batman glared.
"Oh come on, live a little I'm not hurting anyone."
"I said down, Akashiya!"
"Or what?" she replied, a smug expression over her face.
As they came up on the next intersection, the vehicle swerved sharply to the left, Moka's head forced against the door!
"Jerk!" the vampire snapped.
She lowered her legs and a small grin shaped on the side of his face, not visible to her. From afar two persons stood atop a building, observing and listened to the police sirens passing by from all directions.
"So noisy and you know as they say, he's sure to arrive where it's loudest."
"Morrigan?" the cat girl stared at the succubus.
"You wanted to see the bat? Well now's your chance, he'll be there, I know it," Morrigan looked herself over through a handheld mirror, applying minimal makeup. "I have to look pretty for my knight."
"Does he drink blood like a vampire, oh and can he fly, move at super speed and disappear?!" Felicia jumped up.
"You'll just have to see for yourself darling," Morrigan leaped off the ledge flapping her wings, "They'll lead us right to him."
"Wait up!"
Felicia jumped from roof to roof keeping pace with Morrigan and they followed the sirens, Morrigan eager to see the dark knight once more and to have some fun with him.
To Be Continue
- 17
- 18
- 19
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Seal of Darkness