#no his JL associates are never going to let him live this down

[mkarchin713]

Constantine was very confused.

When he heard someone had traded their claim on his soul for something Constantine knew he had to track the individual down if only for his peace of mind.

He was not expecting however to find out his soul was traded for a reanimated hot dog.

….

Danny had accepted a lot of weird things in exchange for food from various supernatural beings. He got those ghost weasels from Skulker (they where really good at controlling the Fenton Weenie population) and he got that “May your food never be over or under cooked” blessing from that one god he met. Most of the time Danny found good uses or at least good homes for whatever he traded. Danny however did not know what to do with 1/67th of a soul that a demon gave him in lieu ��of exact change.

Fenton Street Food

"You know what's better than being a superhero? A street food vendor! Yes, superheroes can save the day, stop villains and receive hatred or admiration as the case may be, but a street vendor? They are at the heart of the action, fulfilling their dreams! They traveled the world feeding the masses, and even met superheroes, feeding them to keep them doing their duty, food carts are the centerpiece of keeping the heroes alive, they are the heroes..."

Maybe if Danny repeated it enough times he'd start to believe it, though seeing the monstrosity that was the Fenton food cart he highly doubted it. More so because it had fucking guns hidden next to the mutant and very alive Hot dogs (which by the way were not sellable, they were the mascots of the brand).

It all started when Jack Fenton talked about his dream of delivering his favorite food around the world, that fueled Maddie Fenton's idea, and since Jazz was in college and Danny was on vacation no one could stop them.

Soon Danny became a victim of his parents' eccentricities. Although the halfa had to admit that selling in Gotham was a lot of fun, thieves didn't think it was worth mugging him and the Rogues themselves bought his food of dubious origins.

It was almost a shame to have to change cities because Batman was getting too suspicious but Metropolis was waiting for him. And he would be back eventually; some bats who had enjoyed his strange roving food stall had waved him off with handkerchiefs, wiping away fake tears. Danny appreciated it.

Besides, Red Robin affirmed to him that he would recommend him to Superboy, so he wouldn't run out of customers anytime soon. He wondered if he should stop by Central City, the Flash Family ate a lot didn't they?

[ninjakk]

I've been thinking of how JC attempts to sacrifice himself for WWX when they first run from the Wens after the fall of LP and his reasons/feelings for doing that and reconciling them with this person who acts so shamefully and is full of such hatred that he kills all 'demonic cultivators' after wwx's death. Even as WWX thinks of whether JC and JL are okay, I notice he calls JC "Sect Leader" out loud to others. I don't know how they could reconcile. Sorry lots of feelings.

Hi again anon 👋🏻

I've answered your two asks separately as they were addressing different aspects of the novel and my original response was getting rather long 😆

It certainly was an unexpected revelation when we found out that JC lured the searching Wen cultivators away from an unsuspecting WWX. Of course, I don't think it was his intention to get caught in the process, but he definitely thought about someone else other than himself for once - which was interesting. Although it was one of the very few selfless acts he did during the course of the novel, it still doesn't retract any of the awful things he has done, nor the way he treated WWX or his homophobic outburst.

Even after WWX has died, JC's bitterness remains very strong and he does indeed hunt down those that use the ghost path in hope of capturing WWX, should he return. Which I always find quite telling of just how little JCs actually knows and understands WWX - who would never actually do such a thing.

In all honesty, JC actually redeemed himself ever so slightly at the very end of the novel, when he decides not to tell WWX about how he really lost his golden core. Instead, he finally let him go, severing the very last thread of "debt" and "obligation" between them. It was actually a fitting character arc for him and it showed a glimmer of possible growth.

Even if JC had selfishly told WWX that particular fact, I don't think it would have changed much at all. WWX has already paid back his "debt" and "obligations" to the Jiang sect far beyond what was required or reasonable. There is nothing left to say between them and WWX literally has nothing left to give. Too much water has gone under the bridge. All of that is in the past and WWX always focuses on the present. So either way, nothing would have changed. I also think WWX would not want to associate with someone he thought his love for LWJ was disgusting and shameful regardless of anything else at play. He chooses love, happiness and freedom as his parents did before him.

JC and WWX are too different, in both personality and virtue. They would not have been friends or hung out in any other scenario bar the circumstance they found themselves in during the course of the novel. They both literally embody the traits that the other actually cannot stand! Their relationship was that of a master and subordinate, it was toxic and they are both better off giving each other a wide berth and moving on.

A reconciliation would never happen and it doesn't need to. WWX is entitled to a happy life for all his efforts in his previous life and JC needs to live with the consequences of his actions and learn from them in his own way.

I know it's probably not the response you were hoping for. But if you consider the above, they both got some form of a happy ending. JC is finally learning to let go of things that little bit more and WWX is free to move on and live his life how he always wanted. I honestly couldn't think of a more suitable and realistic ending.

[julchenawesome]

A day ago, i publish about the idea of "We don't talk about Bruno" but WWX ver. So, I only had LWJ (and LXC) parts, and the idea of Jin Ling or LSZ asking about him. But, the roles in the song, i need help to decide.

It could be the canon or a AU. This one it could be if Jin Ling, after reading some letters from his mom, to ask if WWX was bad person. He even do researches about the Wens, and if they were cultivators. In the AU with LSZ, it's because he starts to remember his "Xian gege".

Spoiler of Encanto if you want to watched, don't read down this...

For the beginning, Pepa and Felix part is about their wedding and how Bruno's prediction ruined it(?). So, my first idea was about Jiang Cheng telling his nephew about how, in the celebration of Jin Ling's full moon, WWX killed his father with the Ghost General.

It would be like this:

'JC: We don't talk about Wei Wuxian, no no

We don't talk about Wei Wuxian

But, in your full moon

(JL: In my full moon?)

We were reunited

And there wasn't a cloud in the sky

(JL: no cloud alloweds in the sky)

EVerything changed in the Qionqui Path

(JL: Is that so?!)

Am i telling the story or break your legs?(

JL: Sorry jiujui go on)

Jin Zixuan went after him

(JL: why did he do that?)

Wei Wuxian lost his control

(JL: i don't like this part...)

The Ghost General killed your dad

(JL: and since then I'm fatherless, but..)

For that...

We don't talk about Wei Wuxian, no no

We don't About Wei Wuxian!'

The other Idea was that the begginning was Lan Qiren pov's.

We don't talk about Wei Wuxian, no no

We don't talk about that Wuxian...

But, in the Lectures

(LJY: in the lectures)

Cloud Recesses was a temple full of peace and control

(LJY: a temple of peace and control)

But the Jiangs bring that first Disciple

(LJY: Oh NO)

Don't interrupt your Elders!

(LJY: I'm sorry Grandmaster~)

He brings evil ideas

(LJY: Really evil)

to manipulates resentful energy

(LJY: So heretic!)

He corrupts my best disciple!

(LJY: Hanguanjun still is the best of all us)

But, We don't talk about Wei Wuxian, no no,

We don't talk about that Wei Wuxian!'

Next part, Dolores rap, I think that would be Nie Huisang, (not)talking directly, with a storyteller maybe, but using methods to talk to Jin Ling/LSZ.

It would be:

'Hey! He was defying some authority in the moment,

in the war something changed he start to mumbling

I associate him with the sound of a dizi play, sss, sss,sss

He never brings his sword in the meetings,

Sect Leaders seems his being a problem to control him

He makes Wen Ruohan tremble in his place,

But I don't know nothing'

But, i don't know

Next one, I thing it would be Jin's disciples, trying to scare him.

'A seven foot frame, ghouls in his back

When if you see red in his eyes you better went to hide

Yes, he kill the Jins with his Wen dogs!'

Chorus:

We don't talk about Wei Wuxian (no, no~)

We don't talk about Wei Wuxian!'

Like in Bruno's song, this part are ridiculous vision's that are not really visions, but town people being credible. Here, are some cultivators thoughts.

'He cursed Jin Zixun, and then he died!

(Oh, no)

He killed my cousin in Nightless City with a puppet of his

(Oh, no)

My brother lost a leg in the Qionqui Path!

(Oh, no)

He was the Evil who brings the End of times"

Then, as Isabela brings a good vision, I want to bring someone who remembers him in a good way and still lives:

MianMian: He protect me in the XuanWu cave

From Wen Chao and his horrible bride

He had reasons to defend the Wens

He was good and a honorable man'

Now, the wangxian, and a familiar situation:

(Lan disciples: there is a problem in Mo Manor)

LWJ: They told me that the man of my dreams

It was bretayed and Killed by his own brother

I want to hear him now

I want to hear him now

(LXC: Wangji, please let him go

find your peace)

I want to hear him now

Answer me Wei Ying!'

Jin Ling's part/Lan Sizhui parts:

Umm, Wei Wuxian

Yeah, about Wei Wuxian

I really need to know about Wei Wuxian

Gimme the truth and the whole truth, Yiling Laozu!/Xian gege!

(Oh, mother, Mo XuanYu just cursed me!)

(It's night hunt!)

And there is the mashup, mix, with everything pointed up. Meanwhile they are singing, Mo XuanYu sacrifice himself for WWX. And, If it's Jin Ling's way, he would try to find answers with JGY, instead he finds NMJ head and Suibian, stealing this one. With LSZ's way, it would be finding Wangxian' partitures, the red ribbon, or just remembering everything in a moment. Even, finding his father depressive, and feeling guilty.

(We don't talk about We Wuxian, no)

why did I talk about Wei Wuxian?

(Not a word about Wei Wuxian)

I never shoulda brought up Wei Wuxian'!

Well...what do you think? Should i try with another songs? What version do you prefer?

[scorched-ambrosia]

Rosy Fog, Rosy Haze, Rosy Touch (from JL)

Rosy Fog: What are their immediate views on romantic love?

Romantic love is a very tender and painful subject for Alanna when pressed about it. On a daily basis, he usually pushes it as far out of his mind as he can - he associates romantic love with a grief he still doesn't know how to process. He doesn't know if he'll ever feel it again at this point, or if he did, if he would feel it to the capacity that he has in the past. He and Mahiro have each other for physical comforts, and they share very unique feelings for each other, yet neither of them would say that it's necessarily fulfilling a strictly romantic role in their lives. Maybe, maybe with the right person, who was very patient and willing to understand, one day, but in an immediate sense there are few things more scary to Alanna than the idea of loving someone again.

Rosy Haze: Do they react well when they develop feelings for someone and if not why?

No. Alanna has attempted to move on on very rare occasions and it has never, ever ended well - for fear of hurting the few he comes to care about again, he generally shoves even the inkling of feelings for someone down to the deepest parts of him and shuts them away. He would never want to hurt someone again or saddle them with his burdens, so generally, Alanna usually just *doesn't* react in a way that the other person would ever know, anyway. He'd much rather just open a bottle of ambrosia and drink until he isn't thinking about it anymore.

Rosy Touch: How do they show affection nonverbally? Are they likely to show affection with their words as well?

Regardless of relationship, Alanna shows affection through acts of service. Wordless gestures to let someone know that he is thinking of them or to just make their day easier are common signs that Alanna cares about someone to some capacity. Alanna is known to be incredibly self-sacrificing, so depending on how important the individual is to him, there is a lot he might be willing to do to keep them safe and comfortable regardless of if they ever know or not. Going out of his way to spend time with someone, as well, is a good way to know that he cares about someone. Very few are allowed in his personal life - if he is going out of his way to invite you into it, he likely truly does enjoy your company to a great extent.

Trust comes hand-in-hand with affection for Alanna. He regards placing his trust in someone as a form of affection as well. Allowing physical contact, especially for extended periods of time or with intimate parts of himself, such as his wings/back, or allowing himself to be physically vulnerable around someone (sleeping, bathing, ill etc), is a big sign of affection from Alanna.

There was a time when Alanna was endlessly verbose about his affection, and would quite openly express his love and affection for others through his words, but now, not so much. Saying it aloud might make it real - and if it's real, it can be taken away.

Thank you, @gold-willow !

[tatselk]

The Untamed (陈情令) Review: Ep 30

!!! SPOILERS AHEAD !!!

Previous episode review: 1 and 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16,17, 18,19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29. 

Expectations: The Yiling Patriarch is delving into the dark arts and the Ghost General is killing people mindlessly. Reality: The Yiling Patriarch is barter-trading a radish for a compass with a Yiling Patriarch cosplayer / snake oil salesman and the Ghost General is (nervously) trying to sell radishes. XD

Poor WN... JC didn’t HAVE to slam the door in his face like that. -_-’’

JC is here! And JYL too! The Jiang siblings are (briefly) united again!!! :):):)

WHY IS JC SO TSUN WHEN HE SAW WWX’S REACTION AT SEEING JYL IN HER WEDDING GET-UP OMG. “What? You think she is going to marry you?”

On a side note, I was kinda amused at how both JYL and JC up-ped their fashion game when they came to Yiling to see WWX even though they were trying to keep a low profile. Like OK, JYL was in a black cloak which hid her wedding get-up but JC didn’t have a cloak on and was dressed in a fairly showy manner (for him I mean)...?

More JC Tsun-ness! JC was the one who suggested that WWX give JL his courtesy name AND he immediately shoots down WWX’s suggestion of “Jin Rulan” by complaining that the name sounds like it is associated with the Lan sect. -_-’’

JYL offering a bowl of the lotus soup, which she brought for WWX and JC, to WN just makes what would eventually happen angst-ier than it already is. :(

All the bickering and (awkward) displays of concern between the Yunmeng Twin Heroes will never get old. Heh. “Here’s to the Yiling Patriarch!” “[chokes] You shut your mouth!” “... How’s your injury from the last time?” “I’ve already recovered from it.” “How many days did it take you to recover?” “Just 7 days. You know me, a small injury like that isn’t going to bring me down.  But... you really did a fine job of stabbing me...” “You were the one who cut my arm first! You took 7 days to recover; I had my arm in a sling for a month!”

WWX trying to grow lotuses in the Burial Mounds was probably the most bittersweet part of the episode. Like you could SEE how WWX’s desperation when the lotuses weren’t growing (and when A-Yuan plucked the only seedling which appeared) reflected his despair at losing the only link to Lotus Pier which he had left. Plus it was kinda cool how this reflected the happier parallel of JZX planting lotuses at Koi Tower for JYL in episode 28...

How is that the live-action JGS is even MORE slimy than the one in the novel?! The more polished / presentable JGY is, the more JGS doesn’t trust him?! If JGY weren’t polished / presentable, then there would be slurs being thrown about him being the lowly son of a prostitute or something like that, right??? What does JGS even want from JGY??? Oh and don’t even get me started on how JGS refused to let JGY carry JL! :(:(:(

God, I loved how LWJ owned the scene at Koi Tower even in the short time which he appeared in this episode. He suggested that WWX be invited to JL’s Full Month Celebration AND gave Jin Zixuan literally no face in rebutting him??? Novel!LWJ gotta take some notes from Live-action!LWJ. Haha. 

Also loved how quickly JGY changed his position on WWX being invited to JL’s Full Month Celebration RIGHT AFTER he heard LXC speaking up in support of inviting WWX if WWX was sincere in turning over a new leaf. JGY literally went from saying, “Hanguang-jun means well. However, this may not be appropriate.” to going, “It is true that I do not appear to have heard of the Yiling Patriarch committing any evil. Even the Stygian Tiger Seal has disappeared without a trace.” Ohh, JGY, your crush on LXC is showing. Heh. PLUS THIS PARALLELED HOW IN ONE OF THE EARLIER EPISODES, NMJ DID A 360 ON HOW TO DEAL WITH THE WEN SECT REMNANTS AFTER HE SAW LXC LOOKING UPSET AT HIS ORIGINAL STANCE. HOLY SHIT.

LXC’s tiny smile when JGY asked LWJ to help deliver the invitation to WWX was just-! LXC, did you sorta-kinda plan on having this happen??? ;)

On a side-side note, it was nice to see the parallels between WWX and JGY in the second half or so of this episode where the show kept jumping back and forth between what they were doing. Like WWX was trying to re-create Lotus Pier at the Burial Mounds by planting the lotuses and JGY was trying to gain his father’s approval at Koi Tower by being a good right-hand man. But basically, both of them were displaced individuals trying to create a sense of belonging in their new homes. 

Overall: 10/10. 110% would watch again for all the great lines and fluff. Despite it being a fairly filler-y episode. AND despite JGS being an ass for the entire time that he appeared on screen. Probably because we all know how things eventually ended for JGS. Hahaha.

[thereifling]

Batman and the JL: JL Christmas Party at Wayne Manor (aka 4am Fast Food pt. 2)

           Alfred pulled the turkey from the oven. He breathed in the fresh scent sighing in satisfaction. Before placing the tray on the stove, the front door rang. Taking off the oven mittens he hastened to the door.  

           “Heya Jeeves!” Wally West stood outside tightly wrapped in a large coat and holding several pies. “Am I late?” He asked allowing himself in.

           “On the contrary, you are early.”

           “Woah, that never happens.” The red head laughed looking around for the kitchen. Alfred shut the door, keeping the December air out of the house, and ushered his guest to the living room. “So, where’s Bruce?” Wally inquired handing off his coat.

           “Master Bruce is currently on patrol but will return shortly.” Alfred took the pies heading towards the kitchen. “Dinner will be served once everyone arrives.”

           “Man, I’m so hungry I could eat a buffalo.” The front door rang again. “I’ll get it!” Wally rushed back swinging the large oak open to reveal Clark, Diana, and J’onn.

           “Merry Christmas!” Clark beamed. The three of them trudged in carrying several bags and platters of food.

           “Happy holidays Wally.” Diana undid her coat placing it on the rack with the rest of theirs. She gazed passed him frowning. “Where’s Bruce?”

           “Master Bruce is currently on patrol.” Alfred suddenly appeared making Wally jump. He took the bags and the pie in Clark’s hand.

           “It’s ma’s pie!” Clark exclaimed. “And here, let me take some of that.” He followed Alfred back to the kitchen. Diana, J’onn, and Wally made their way to the lounge settling in the cushions. They sat there in silence, feeling very awkward. Diana swore she saw Wally speed around the house several times but continued twiddling her thumbs.

           “Is it not customary-” J’onn suddenly spoke up. “-for the host to be present when his guests arrive?” Wally laughed at that.

           “It is, but we’re talking about Bats here.”

           “I do wish he could take one night of rest.” Diana sighed

           “Yeah well, he better get here soon, I’m starving!” The speedster flumped down on the couch beside her with a huff. Diana smiled sympathetically towards him.

           “Perhaps we should help the process further and head to the kitchen?” J’onn suggested.

           “Hey everyone!” Clark’s voice abruptly hollered from the hall. “I hear the car coming in from the cave. He’s here so we can eat!” Wally hadn’t run that fast in a very long time.

           Bruce laid another sample on the flask peering into the microscope. Coming out of the car he hadn’t bothered to remove the cowl and immediately set to work. Bruce had been working tirelessly for the past three weeks to get this sample and a new burst of determination bubbled up inside. Setting a new flask in, footsteps could be heard coming near.

           “What is it Alfred?” Bruce deadpanned, still gazing into the microscope.

           “Sir, your guests have arrived and are patiently awaiting your presence.” There was a hint of condescendence which made Bruce look up. What did he forget now?

           “Guests? I don’t recall inviting anyone…”

           “Your Christmas Eve party sir, with the founding members of the Justice League.” Alfred informed with a cock of his head. Bruce inwardly groaned.

           “I don’t have time right now.”

           “Sir, I insist that you head upstairs and be courteous to your guests.”

           “Alfred, I’m busy.” Bruce exhaled. “Can’t Dick entertain them?” Alfred erected himself raising an eyebrow at that.

           “Master Richard is out with miss Gordon as he will be unable to tomorrow since we are having Christmas with the entire family. These are your guests and friends whom you invited for today.” Bruce jabbed a finger at him.

           “I did NOT invite them over! You and slap happy Clark planned this while Diana practically had me pinned down. Now I have work to do and it cannot wait.” Bruce grew more serious. “I got a sample of the toxin.” Alfred’s eyes widened slightly.

           “Oh my.”

           “Yes.” Bruce turned back to the glass vials. “I finally acquired Sanders’ poison. I need to find a cure before she infects more people. I’m waiting for the results right now.”

           “As you wait, perhaps you could grace your associates with your presence.”

           “Alfred-”

           “A half hour, sir.” The two men stared at each other, a battle of wills. Bruce glared daggers into the old man. Alfred was giving him the look, one he has so far not been able to beat. With a sigh, Bruce removed his cowl and headed towards the changing room.

           “I’ll be up in five minutes.”

           “Very good sir.”

           When Bruce finally came up, having changed into a t-shirt and cargo pants, Shayera and John had just arrived. Wally practically forced them in their seats and seemed ready to throttle Clark for demanding to say grace before digging in. Bruce grimaced at the display of food. There were at least ten pies, several unidentifiable casseroles, pork, turkey, all forms of potatoes, a couple cakes, and many more sugar infested delicacies. He couldn’t eat most of it, not if he wanted to double his workout for the next week. He observed the rest of the guests and their lack of needing a restraint. Clark had a moderate portion, far less than he could handle, Wally had half his food stuffed in his mouth while simultaneously pouring more onto his plate. Bruce sighed, thankful that the others brought meals. Poor Alfred. At the far end of the table John and Shayera were flirting again, and that’s when he noticed Diana had been placed next to his spot. Nice try Alfred. J’onn ate very little more interested in his conversation with Clark. They were discussing tomorrow’s plans for Christmas. Bruce sighed again. These were all his friends, perhaps his only ones besides Jim. He could take a half hour off for them. A smile tugged at his mouth, resigning his fate to the party.

           “Diana, would you please pass the salad and the Greek dressing?” She beamed back at him.

           “Here you are.”

           “Thank y-” The bowl clattered on the table the moment he grasped it. Salad splattered across spreading all the way to Clark on Diana’s right. The room went silent, all staring at Bruce. He glared at them and began to pick up the pieces along with the sudden appearance of Alfred.

           “Sorry Bruce.” Diana whispered as everyone picked up their conversations again.

           “It’s all right.” He finished retrieving the last piece.

           “I will be back with more.” Alfred informed and promptly disappeared. Bruce nodded to him and reached for his glass. The way his hands shook did not escape him. Bruce flexed his other hand under the table. His muscles were stiff and achy. The past couple of days must have caught up to him making it act quicker. He growled to himself, taking a sip. He saw Clark eyeing him, a look of concern. Bruce mouthed I’m fine to only have the Kryptonian roll his eyes.

           “So, presents or a game?” Wally jumped up. They had finished eating and were now sitting in the main room. The speedster pulled several board games out of his bag handing them to Clark.

           “Oh!” Diana exclaimed. “I have heard of Scattergories, it sounds like fun.” She pulled it from Wally’s hand looking it over.

           “I’m in.” Clark nodded towards the box. J’onn, John and Shayera agreed as well. “You playing Bruce?” He turned to the billionaire. Bruce was slumped in a leather chair by the gigantic glittering tree.

           “I don’t play games.” He huffed.

           “You play chess with me.” Shayera smirked.

           “Chess is a strategic and mind building tool. I play enough games with the Riddler and Joker as it is, I don’t need another.”

           “Fine, suit yourself.” Wally shrugged, helping Diana unpack the box. Bruce sunk more into the chair. He hadn’t been feeling good since dinner and the constant noise was stabbing his head forming a headache. The chair felt amazing as his energy seemed to drain with every moment. His head swam. It felt heavy as he leaned against his hand on the armrest. Bruce checked his watch grimacing at the time. An hour over what he promised Alfred, but he just couldn’t will himself out of the chair just yet. Clark had asked him if he was all right several times and received a plate in the face when he tried to x-ray him. He was such a worry wort.

           “Yes! More food!” Wally cried. Alfred walked in with a tray of snacks placing it on the coffee table. Half of it was gone by the time anyone else got to it. Wally only stopped because of John’s glare.

           “Bruce, would you like some?” Diana inquired. Bruce stared off out the window, he couldn’t look at it, feeling nauseous.

           “No.”

           “Bruce, you hardly ate anything at the dinner.” Diana frowned, becoming concerned.

           “Are you sure you’re all right?” Clark joined in. Bruce clenched his jaw, this was getting annoying. He needed to keep up appearances, but their constant asking was really irritating.

           “I’m fine! See!” He grabbed some sort of pork and onion from the tray and plopped it in his mouth. He immediately regretted it. Nearly gagging, Bruce ran to the nearest trash and let it go. He heaved losing his lunch from earlier, but even when it ran out it didn’t stop. The convulses continued making him cough occasionally. He dry heaved until his throat hurt and sweat coated his face. A hand was on his back, rubbing circles. Clark’s soothing voice spewed comforting words. After what felt like an eternity, Bruce sat back on his knees gasping. Clark continued rubbing circles until he caught his breath again.

           “I’m okay.” Bruce rasped.

           “Looks like it.” sarcasm dripping from Clark’s voice. Bruce turned up to see Alfred coming towards them. They were the only ones in the hallway, the others giving the dark crusader is privacy.

           “Master Bruce, are you all right?” Master Bruce was getting really annoyed with people asking that.

           “You have a fever.” Clark frowned feeling his head. “Did you catch the flu?” Bruce swatted his hand away dismissing both their concerns and stood up. At least he tried to. Bruce’s shaky legs immediately collapsed under him and he grasped the trashcan for support. His headache was turning into a migraine and his chest burned. It had begun.

           “I need to get to the cave…” Bruce rasped starting a new fit of coughing.

           “I think you mean upstairs to bed.” Clark chided. Bruce ignored him, attempting to get up and succeeded, even if he was leaning on the wall.  

           “Master Bruce, now is not the time to be stubborn. Healing requires rest.” Alfred held one of his arms urging him towards the stairs. The billionaire resisted forcing his way to the clock. He returned to the living room full of leaguers who all watched on in concern. Growling at their looks, he turned the clock hands opening the secret door. Bruce’s chest suddenly flared up like it was on fire. He grasped it with a groan falling to the floor again.

           “Bruce!” Diana cried, catching him before he hit the floor. The rest gathered around in distress. “Bruce, what’s wrong? Are you sick?”

           “I…need to get, to get to the cave…” He began to cough again, clutching his burning ribs. Diana bit her lip trying to decide what to do. She stopped suddenly reaching for his neck.

           “Bruce, what’s that?” In place of his veins were a purple venomous color snaking up his body. She noticed that they had curved down his left arm more numerous and black in color.

           “No!” They all swiveled around meeting a distressed Alfred. “You bloody idiot! You did not, did you?!”

           “It…it was the only way…” Bruce murmured, still clutching his chest. He eyed his butler daring him to argue.

           “What did he do? What on earth is going on?!” Wally burst out.

           “Bring him downstairs post haste!” Alfred commanded motioning Diana towards the clock entrance. Without question she picked up Bruce and flew down in a blur.

           “Alfred, what’s going on?” Clark calmly asked. Alfred huffed setting towards the stairway down.

           “I will explain in the cave.”

           Diana gently placed the dark knight down in the medical bay. The coughing had returned, and he squeezed his eyes shut clutching his chest. His face was so stricken in pain that tears were streaming down his face. Diana tried to remain calm, but she didn’t know how long for. Bruce was in pain, a lot of it. She rubbed his back whispering that it was okay, but a lump settled making it harder. Alfred suddenly appeared with the rest of the league at his heels. They crowded around the still hacking vigilante growing increasingly worried. The purple veins had reached his jawline.  

           “Listen.” Alfred demanded. “I am sure master Bruce was planning on being more coherent for this segment, but that does not seem to be the case at this moment. I will need your help.” The butler revealed no emotion on his face, but Diana was certain she heard a tint of irritation in his voice. “For the past three weeks a serial killer known as Jessica Sanders has been spreading a toxin all around Gotham. The poison has no known cure and leaves no traces after death. Master Bruce has…has, well, injected himself with the toxin in hopes to procure a cure for the next victims.” Alfred faltered clenching his fist. “This is beyond my medical experience, if you all wo-”

           “Way ahead of you Jeeves!” Wally hollered from beyond in the lab room. J’onn moved towards the now limp form of Bruce, eyes glowing.

           “I know Batman will not appreciate me entering his mind, even for his information on the toxin.”

           “But he was being an idiot anyway.” Clark smirked, eyes turning to x-ray. Diana placed a hand on the butler’s shoulder.

           “We’ll save him Alfred, I promise.” Wally zipped by them, taking a syringe, and drawing blood from the patient.

           “Only bats would poison himself to get out of a Christmas party.”

THE END