This is the tale of four people, their worries and fears as they wait for their loved ones to return from mission. Disclaimer: These characters (except Reverend Justice, whom I created) belong to DC Comics and Warner Bros. This Fan fiction was written for fun, not profit, and as such, no money is being made from this fictitious story.

At the Gotham City Auditorium, everybody had left the Arena but a few familiar faces. Another MCW taping and House Show had ended a few hours before, and Joey Lucas was showering.

"Any plans for later tonight?" Dick Grayson called from the locker room, "Kory and I are planning on a relaxing evening: order in some Chinese food and watch a movie or two on DVD at her place in San Francisco; would Shayera and you care to join us?"

"Sounds great Dick," Joey said, towelling off, "but I could really use a backrub right now; and a long soak in the Jacuzzi I just had installed. Can we take a rain check?"

"No problem dude! I won’t complain spending a bit of ‘alone time’ with Kory!" Dick said with a wink. "The Caribbean Cruise we took made it obvious to me that I needed to take a breather and spend some more quality time with her."

"Thus you take a sabbatical from the Titans…and end up spending more time with the Gotham Knights instead, thankfully for you with Kory!" Joey said with a grin. They laughed good-heartedly.

Joey got dressed and packed his gear in his gym bag. Dick and Joey left the locker-room, joining Shayera and Kory who were chatting at the locker-room entrance. After exchanging farewells, Dick and Kory took their leave. Shayera smiled and kissed Joey.

"That was one hell of a workout Joey, how’s the back feeling?" She asked.

"I’m fully warmed up and I feel fine baby," he said, putting his arm around her, smiling. "There was a time where it looked you were about to storm the ring, or was that just my imagination?"

"You saw it correctly, your opponent –that Badass Bart character – was making it look a bit too real, I had to keep reminding myself ‘it’s only sports entertainment!’ " She said, looking at him with concern. Joey smiled and kissed her again.

They walked to his car – the Chariot under holographic cover – and drove to his place. He parked into his spot and connected the power cells.

They entered Joey’s apartment. He unpacked his wrestling gear, putting it in the laundry, hanging his boots to dry.

Shayera deployed her wings, stretching; and smiled at Joey.

"Are you sure your back feels okay?" She asked, with looking worried. "You took some pretty stiff falls in that ring today. I know how tense your back can get."

"Nothing a bit of Ibuprofen can’t fix, besides, I’m…" Joey began, as Shayera stepped behind him, sitting him down on a stool, and gently massaging his trapezius, "fully…warmed…up!" he finished, revelling in her touch.

"You and your pain killers," She said in her husky voice, sending shivers down his spine. "I have drug-free healing treatments for you, if you only bothered to ask!"

"N-n-nice," Joey said, with a blissful look on his face. "Angel, you have magic hands, I should know: you sure got rid of that stiff neck I had at the beginning of the Caribbean cruise!"

She smiled and kneaded a bit harder, leaning forward to kiss him on the back of the head.

She moved her hands just beneath his shoulder blades. He moaned as she kneaded that sore area of his back; his facial expression contorting into a mixture of pleasure and pain.

"How about we use the Jacuzzi Shy?" He asked a subtle smile on his lips.

"Jacuzzi huh; so you have been playing tough guy with me then; Mr ‘My back feels fine’?" Shayera said, giving him a teasing frown.

"You got me, I lied, please forgive me?" Joey said, looking sheepish, "but I know I’ll feel fine soon; thanks to your ‘drug-free healing treatments’! Shall you join me then Angel?"

Shayera smiled, hugging him. "Do you need to ask? Try and stop me!" She said.

They got undressed and went to the Jacuzzi. Shayera retracted her wings.

"Large shower, washer/dryer, two bedrooms, on site gym and no hassles when I requested permission to have the Jacuzzi installed…there is a Santa Claus and his name is Bruce Wayne!" Joey thought with a satisfied smile.

They relaxed; enjoying the warm bubbling water, snuggling up to each other, thankful that the new molecular belt casing was indeed waterproof. A few minutes within the Jacuzzi session, Shayera’s communicator chimed, with an emergency call from the Watchtower.

"Hawkgirl here," she said, answering her communicator, looking quite annoyed. She rolled her eyes and sighed, "Understood Mike, I’ll meet Superman, Wonder Woman and Martian Manhunter in a minute, just give me a chance to get changed, Hawkgirl out." She gave Joey an apologetic look.

"Damn! I’m sorry about that Joey, duty calls!" She said, looking frustrated.

"I understand Shy," Joey said, kissing her before she got up to exit the Jacuzzi. "Give ‘em hell! And please come back to me in one piece mon Ange?"

Shayera smiled as she towelled off. She got dressed in her Hawkgirl suit. "I promise, only if you promise me you’ll take care of your back while I’m away on mission." She said to him with a wink.

Joey smiled and crossed his heart. She deployed her wings, put one knee down next to the Jacuzzi, and kissed him again before transporting out.

"She’s only been gone a few seconds and I miss her already …" he thought, eyes closed.

His thoughts strayed to his Godson Rex and all of a sudden, he felt ashamed. "I see more of Shayera than the poor kid does and here am I feeling sorry for myself… real mature Joey."

He got out of the Jacuzzi and towelled off. He dressed and sat at his laptop. He keyed in a few commands and got a video uplink to the Watchtower.

"Watchtower 1, Mister Terrific here, what can I do for you Joey?" Mister Terrific asked.

"I need a big favour Mike."

"Ask away!" Mister Terrific said.

"Could you get me an uplink to Dr Fate’s domain? I miss my Godson." Joey said.

Mister Terrific smiled and nodded. "Setting up the uplink, you’re a good man Joey Lucas!"

"Sometimes I’m not so sure Mike," Joey said, looking sad, "I feel responsible for hogging his Mom’s spare time."

"Joey, this is none of my business, but here’s my two-cent worth," Mister Terrific said, "Rex is a special boy with special needs; which include protection against Thanagarian spies and Super-Villains holding a grudge against Hawkgirl; and as we both know that list is a mile long. The bottom-line is that Rex is a luck boy with good people who love him dearly. I understand he’s quite fond of his Godfather too!" He said, smiling.

Joey nodded and smiled, "Thanks Mike, I need to be reminded of that sometimes."

"The uplink is active Joey, take care." Mister Terrific concluded.

Mister Terrific made way to Dr Fate’s wife, Inza Nelson on screen. "Yes Joseph, how can we help you?" she said with a smile.

"You probably already know Inza, I miss my Godson." Joey said, looking sheepish. "Would I be out of place requesting a transport to Dr Fate’s domain?"

Inza smiled, "Transport already authorized Joseph, and you know you are always welcome here." She said. "Rex will be happy to see you!"

Joey felt briefly disoriented as he magically materialized in Dr Fate’s Domain. "I’m sure glad Dr Fate and Inza are on our side, those spells give me the creeps." He thought; feeling his skin crawling in spite of himself.

"Joey!" he heard a familiar voice say. Joey smiled as Rex flew towards him laughing excitedly.

"Rex! Hey, how are you doing Champ? Good Lord you’ve grown!" Joey said; smiling as Rex hugged him.

"Don’t be silly, you just saw me a few weeks ago, and I’m no taller than I was then!" Rex said, giggling, "I’m so happy to see you! Come; let me show you my new video games!" He said, taking Joey by the hand.

"Yes, this was a good idea!" Joey thought, smiling. Rex led him to his quarters. They played several games – Hockey, Baseball, Basketball and Wrestling – and spent hours together.

"I always beat Dad at basketball," Rex said, "he acts all mad, but I know he just pretends to be mad to make me laugh!"

Joey chuckled, picturing John acting all mad-like for the amusement of his son.

When the time came to leave, Joey was happy and sad all at once.

"I’ll miss you Champ! You promise to behave yourself and listen to Doctor Fate and Inza ok?" He said, smiling, ruffling Rex’s hair.

"I promise Joey, and I’ll miss you too …but I’m glad I’m seeing you guys more often, Mom, Dad, you and Mari, it always makes me so happy to see you!" Rex said, hugging his Godfather again, also smiling.

Joey transported back to his apartment. "I’m a piece of work…Rex was happy to see me, I was happy to see him; why do I feel like crying now?"

His communicator chimed.

"Lucas here!" He answered, trying to hide the tears in his voice.

"Batman here Joey, how was the visit?" Batman’s voice said.

Joey rolled his eyes. "My, how news travels fast," Joey said, shaking his head, "the visit was mutually beneficial. I spent quality time with my Godson, playing video games with him, laughing …"

Batman chuckled. "I promised Shayera I made sure you stay out of trouble!" He said. "And that you show up for treatment: report to the infirmary a.s.a.p., she’s arranged for some physiotherapy with Dr. Sasake."

Joey sighed. Dr Sasake was a nice enough young woman, but too flirtatious for his own tastes. He was surprised Shayera had not told her off yet, let alone book physiotherapy with her.

"Let me change, I’ll transport right away." Joey said. "Did it have to be with Christy Sasake?"

"Oh don’t be silly," Batman replied, "you can handle her! Besides, Christy’s been dating Vigilante as of late, I think the treatment will be kept purely professional!"

"I’m glad to hear that Batman. Give me 20 minutes, The Reverend will be there." Joey said.

"Good man, Batman out." Batman said. Joey could picture the smirk of Batman’s face.

Joey went to the master bedroom and opened the secret compartment in the closet. He changed into his Reverend Justice uniform.

"Reverend Justice to Watchtower 1, transport request Lucas 1 to Sickbay 1." He said.

He materialized on the transport pads near sickbay. Batman was standing there waiting for him. The Reverend smirked. "Checking up on me?" He said.

"A promise is a promise," Batman said, "if I don’t keep my promise to Shayera, I get an earful from her and another one from Diana … I prefer peace honestly."

Reverend Justice nodded. "Oh, what am I worried about?" He said, "I guess I’m just disappointed I’m not getting the treatment from Shayera herself; her Thanagarian healing techniques are pretty amazing."

Batman nodded. They entered Sickbay. Dr Wilder was treating Shining Knight for a sprained ankle and giving him a hard time about it; "The Holographic simulations are meant to prepare you for missions, they defeat the purpose if you go and get yourself injured!" She lectured him.

Dr Blackman was diagnosing Stargirl with Tonsillitis; "There must be a bug going around, Flash’s wife just got over Tonsilitis herself. The swab is negative, your case is viral, so get plenty of rest, drink plenty of fluids and take Acetaminophen for the fever. Gargle with this three times a day; it will help numb the pain." He said, handing her a bottle of Tantum.

Dr Sasake was waiting in the physiotherapy area, smiling.

"I see you managed to retrieve that bad boy!" She said to Batman, "No use in running Reverend; this is for your own good. Hawkgirl insisted we book physio for your back. She also asked Batman to make sure you didn’t play hooky."

Reverend Justice rolled his eyes under his mask, noticing Stargirl was looking at them, with a smirk on her face, in spite of the pain from tonsillitis. He sighed and removed his hat.

"All right, I give; let’s get this over with." He said.

"Now that wasn’t very nice!" Dr Sasake said in a mock hurt voice.

"Believe me he’s in a good mood!" Batman said with a smirk.

Reverend Justice removed his Trench coat, n’th metal belt, gloves and Kevlar shirt.

"The mask, Reverend, we’re all sworn to secrecy here, keeping it on will make it hard for you to get comfortable on the massage table." Dr Sasake said.

Reverend Justice looked at Batman who nodded.

He sighed again and removed the mask/goggle combo, with a growing expression of annoyance on his face.

"Now be mature about this and let the Doctor treat you," Batman said, grinning, "she promised she wouldn’t bite, and I have a lot of work to do."

"All right, all right, I’m cooperating!" Joey mumbled, taking his place face down on the massage table.

Batman stifled a chuckle and left sickbay.

Joey clenched his jaws as Dr Sasake rubbed cold liniment on his back and massaged it in. He then relaxed as she stimulated the Shiatsu pressure points of his back.

"Very good Reverend," she said, "breathe deeply and stay relaxed. We will perform some traction next; relieve the pressure on your discs. I take it you’ve taken some anti-inflammatories already?"

"I did, Ibuprofen with an Acetaminophen chaser." He said.

She shook her head.

"You really shouldn’t mix medicines like that, unless supervised by a Doctor," Dr Sasake said, "you could really damage your liver if you’re not careful. Rollover on your back Rev, and keep your neck relaxed."

Joey complied, mumbling. She was indeed keeping the treatment professional, but her lecturing him like a child in front of fellow Leaguers embarrassed him.

Dr Sasake gently took his head in her hands and exerted traction. He exhaled, the sensation – an odd mixture of soreness, tension and relief shot through Joey like a lightning bolt.

"Very good Rev, now roll back on your stomach, I’ll hook you up to the T.E.N.S. machine.

Joey gasped as the cold gel electrodes were stuck to his back and neck. The pins and needles sensations from the neural stimulation numbed any leftover pain or soreness he felt.

"Now relax, I’ll give you 15 minutes of neural stimulation. I’ll be back with a prescription for heavy duty anti-inflammatories. Just promise me you won’t mix with other pills or alcohol, I don’t want to answer to Hawkgirl if you get sick." Dr Sasake said, with a smirk on her face.

Joey smiled. "I promise Doc!" He said, closing his eyes.

Dr Wilder chimed in, "But you really should follow my suggestion and retire from MCW. I know you try to be careful, but your body takes enough bumps and bruises being a Justice Leaguer; taking those extra bumps in the ring makes it harder for you to cope."

"I know Doc, there’s already talk with the higher ups of changing my role to that of a manager or colour commentator, which would also lighten up my schedule a great deal." Joey said, "And then there’s talk about getting me involved in studio work again, giving me a new cover as a session musician."

Dr Wilder nodded and smiled.

Dr Sasake came back 15 minutes later. "So how are we feeling Reverend?" she said.

"We are feeling fine Doc… a bit numb from the neural stimuli but good!" Joey said, smiling.

She turned the T.E.N.S. machine off and removed the electrodes. She cleaned the gel off Joey’s back with an alcohol wipe.

"You can get dressed Reverend," She said, "Here’s your prescription." She handed him a plastic bottle filled with anti-inflammatory pills. "Take one with breakfast and one with dinner; just be sure not to take them on an empty stomach. You’re a fast healer, so you should be your old self soon. Come right back if you feel any restriction in motion." She winked at him and smiled charmingly.

He nodded nervously. "I thought she was dating Vigilante? Does she enjoy making me feel uncomfortable?"

"I’ll be sure to do that Doc." Reverend Justice said.

He left Sickbay, heading towards the Monitor Womb. He could have requested an update of Shayera’s mission via communicator, but Mr Terrific had already been more than accommodating in spite of his busy schedule. It was simple enough for him to go there in person and consult the computer himself.

He sat at one of the computer terminals and selected the Active Roster. He then typed "Hawkgirl’s status" and scowled as "Classified" appeared on screen. He tried again, typing the names Superman, Wonder Woman and Martian Manhunter, with the same results: the reply "Classified" on screen.

He typed, "verify security clearance" and entered his security clearance code. This time the monitor screen flashed: "Security clearance temporarily revoked, access denied."

"What the hell?" Reverend Justice mumbled. He paused and got an idea. He switched menus and selected the Javelin logs. He typed "current Javelin assignments" and got partial access.

He smiled. The only Javelin headed for a deep space mission was Javelin IV. Shayera had mentioned she was joining Superman, Wonder Woman and Martian Manhunter before transporting out of his apartment, and sure enough, they were all aboard, including…Starfire?

"They even got Kory involved? This doesn’t help me much: I found out which Javelin they’re in…and then what? It doesn’t tell me where they are or when they’ll be back." He thought; feeling defeated.

Reverend Justice sighed, and then concentrated. There was once last resource he had not used – telepathy. It was possible to contact Martian Manhunter telepathically at a distance if you concentrated hard enough… "J’onn if you can hear me, I hope you’re all safe and that you’ll all be back soon. If you can hear me, please tell Shayera I miss her?"

Reverend Justice sighed. Yes, being apart from the one you love was part of the game. It was getting late, and he needed to get some shut-eye. "Shall I sleep in my Watchtower Quarters or at my place in Gotham?" He wondered. "My place will be awfully quiet without Shayera." He thought, mechanically walking to the nearest transport pads. "My place it is then." He thought with a shrug.

He walked to the transport pads and returned to his place. All of a sudden, he felt extremely drained – the MCW taping, the visit to Rex, the physio session … it was finally catching up with him, aggravated by the quietness of his apartment.

He stripped down to his briefs leaving the various pieces of his uniform on the floor of the Master bedroom.

He absent-mindedly turned the TV on – it gave him the feeling he was not alone. He crashed in bed, on the side Shayera usually slept. He could smell her in the bed sheets and pillows, the fragrances of her shampoo, soap, deodorant, and talcum powder; and even of the perfume she sometimes wore.

He buried his face in her pillow feeling drowsy, feeling close to her somehow.

As he drifted to sleep, unexpectedly, he heard J’onn’s voice. "We are all fine Joey. Things did get a bit hairy out here – when don’t they? However, we should see this through soon. Shayera says she misses you too, and longs to be with you soon. We’re sorry about the secrecy, it cannot be helped."

Joey sported a subtle smile on his face as he dozed off; his last thought before falling asleep was "Thanks J’onn!"

In the Bat-Cave, Batman was communicating on his personal link with Wonder Woman, on an encrypted channel.

"So out of worry he tried to contact J’onn telepathically?" Batman said, with a smirk.

"He puts up a tough front, but he loves Shayera dearly, and worries about her very much. Due to the top secret nature of this mission, she wasn’t able to contact him the way you have contacted me just now, you have security clearance, and he doesn’t." Wonder Woman said.

With a teasing voice, she added, "And what about you tough guy? Don’t you love me enough to worry about my safety?"

"Am I in bed sleeping right now?" Batman asked.

"You’re sweet Bruce." Wonder Woman said, smiling, "I miss you. We should be back soon. Do you think Joey and everyone linked to the away team could be updated?" She asked.

Batman sighed and shook his head. "Unfortunately, since this is a covert mission meant to prevent an interstellar war, the less people know the better …but if I had my way; our people would have been already updated, after all, we’re all under oath. Keeping the rest of the League in the dark doesn’t feel right." Batman said. "I miss you too Princess. Promise me you’ll be careful!"

"I promise I will tough guy!" She said. "Got to go, I love you!" She terminated the link.

"I love you too." He mumbled. "Believe me Joey; I’m as worried as you are. I’d be in bed sleeping if I wasn’t so worried." He thought uneasily.

He pulled his mask back and drew in a deep breath. He walked to the locker room part of the Bat-Cave and changed into his civilian clothes. "Bat-Cave lights off." He said climbing the stairs leading back to Wayne Manor. The lights went off.

"Calling it a night Sir?" Alfred asked.

"Yes Alfred, Oracle is supervising Robin, Batgirl, Green Arrow and Black Canary for tonight’s Gotham Knights patrol and I myself feel rather tired." Bruce said, "Diana is off world with a special taskforce on a top-secret mission. I just spoke to her and she’s fine, the whole team is fine, but…"

"But, you are worried nonetheless Sir. You do not need to say it; I can see it well. There is no shame in being concerned." Alfred said.

Bruce nodded. "As I am sure Dick, Joey and Lois must be feeling right now. Then again, I have them at a disadvantage: I have security clearance and get updates, they don’t."

"If I understood you correctly, the team is comprised of Superman, Wonder Woman, Hawkgirl, Martian Manhunter and Starfire? Regardless of the odds they are quite capable of handling themselves." Alfred said. "As I am quite sure Mr. Lucas, Master Grayson, and Ms Lois are all well aware of.

Bruce managed a smile. "I know you’re right, but it won’t make it any easier for me to fall asleep. I feel tired and anxious all at once." He said with a frustrated shrug.

"Shall I fix you a chamomile tea Sir?" Alfred said.

"Please, that would be wonderful Alfred!" Bruce said, giving Alfred a grateful smile. He went upstairs to the Master Bedroom.

He took off his clothes and took a hot shower. He towelled off and slipped into a pair of silk pyjamas. He usually preferred to sleep in the buff, but tonight, he felt uneasy, and cold. He picked up the book on his night table, hoping that reading would help him feel drowsy.

He heard a knock at the bedroom door. "Come in Alfred!" Bruce said, putting the book on his lap.

"Your Camomile tea Sir," Alfred said.

"Thank you Alfred." Bruce said.

"If that will be all Sir, I will retire. If you need anything, Wilfred is on call." Alfred said, putting the cup on Bruce’s night table.

"By all means Alfred, get some rest!" Bruce said. "I’m sure he fully appreciates the assistance of an Android Butler!" Bruce thought.

Alfred bowed and left the room, closing the door behind him. Bruce took a sip of Camomile, looking absent-mindedly at the bedroom door, his thoughts racing in his mind.

When both parties are ready to negotiate, then the Guardians of the Universe will involve themselves as mediators. Meanwhile, we’re risking five of our best people to prevent a war at the other end of the Galaxy." Bruce thought, clenching his teeth.

He took a deep breath, trying to relax. A raw deal by any definition was a raw deal. Through the centuries, the Guardians of the Universe had done many a good thing, but as centuries passed, they began believing in their own infallibility, which irked Bruce deeply.

"They condemned Green Lantern Hal Jordan for righting a wrong and in so doing saving thousands of innocent lives. They barely lifted a finger when Green Lantern John Stewart was wrongfully accused of destroying a planet. It took the efforts of Flash and Hawkgirl to clear him of any wrongdoing." Bruce thought taking another sip of Camomile tea.

"Yet here we are doing their dirty work for them, allowing them to come in as heroes and act like the big pacifists … agreed, war is atrocious and must be avoided at all costs…but in this instance I disagree with the Guardians of the Universe methods." Bruce thought, taking another sip.

Bruce put the book back on the night table and put his cup on top. He switched off the lights and stared at the ceiling; hoping sleep would come soon. He debated for a few seconds whether he should call Dick, Joey and Lois, see how they were coping.

"It would be so simple for us to just sit down and share our worries and draw strength from each other." He looked at the other side of the bed where Diana slept. He closed his eyes, and put his right hand on her pillow, imagining here there, near him. He finally fell asleep.

The following morning, Bruce felt he had to drag himself out of bed. "Why must I be up at 6 am again? Oh yes, the Shareholders meeting at 9 am sharp at Wayne Enterprises," He thought, walking to the showers.

The meeting was a mere formality and he would be out in a few hours, but he could not miss it.

He slipped out of his pyjamas and walked to the shower. He showered, shaved and brushed his teeth. He dressed up in one of his business suits and went downstairs for breakfast.

As usual, Alfred was up and busy, coffee brewing and bread toasting.

"Ah, good morning Sir, breakfast will be ready soon!" Alfred said, smiling.

"Thanks Alfred. While I’m at the Shareholders’ meeting could you please do me a favour? Could you get a hold of Dick, Joey and Lois? Something tells me sitting down together and having a chat would benefit us all greatly. While I still can’t disclose the details of the mission, I’m pretty sure everybody involved will appreciate knowing their significant other is safe and should be back soon." Bruce said.

"That is a very good idea Sir, I shall get to it at once; Wilfred can drive you to the meeting, his appearance is human-looking enough not to raise suspicion." Alfred said.

"Thanks Alfred, I think 2 pm would be convenient for all of us." Bruce said, sitting down at the table.

"I will be sure everyone agrees to a convenient time Sir, please have some breakfast!" Alfred said, serving him a plate of toast, bacon and a cheese omelette.

Bruce ate heartily, almost forgetting the worry he felt in the pit of his stomach. "They’re all fine and will be back soon." He reasoned. "Besides, I won’t be of help to anyone if I don’t take in some nourishment!"

He took a sip of coffee, looking at the morning paper. He smiled as he read the headline "Gotham Knights foil Bank robbery and nab operations mastermind." He nodded with satisfaction. Yes, founding the Gotham Knights was an excellent idea.

He finished breakfast and headed to the front driveway where Wilfred was waiting for him in the Limousine. He climbed in.

"Destination Wayne Enterprises Sir?" Wilfred asked.

"Affirmative Wilfred, the Downtown head office location," Bruce said.

"Very well Sir." Wilfred said, driving off.

His personal communicator beeped. "Wayne here." Bruce said.

"It’s me tough guy," Wonder Woman said. "Mission accomplished; we’re on our way back, everybody is okay. We have advised the Guardians of the Universe. We have sustained some minor damage to the Javelin’s Hyper drive, but it’s nothing serious. We’re not being followed; but the trip back may take us 3 to 4 days rather than 5 hours!" She said.

Bruce could imagine her smiling face, and felt a shiver down his spine. It felt as if a weight was lifted from his shoulders.

"That’s wonderful news Princess, I’ve asked Alfred to call Joey, Dick and Lois; I’ll meet them after the Shareholders meeting. I’m sure they were all as worried as me, and I thought it would be appropriate to show each other some support …now I have good news to tell them!" Bruce said. "I love you, I miss you, and I can’t wait to have you back!"

There was a pause. He heard what sounded like a sob. Wonder Woman replied in a teary voice, "Right back at you tough guy! I’m not used to hear you admit you’re worried about me, it kind of made me all misty!" She said, "I love you too tough guy, and don’t you forget it!"

Wilfred was pulling into Wayne Enterprises’ Parking Lot. Bruce sighed. "Duty calls my love, the meeting starts in 15 minutes … it feels great to hear your voice!"

"Ditto Bruce, let everyone know we’re okay and on our way back!" She said.

"Will do Diana, Bruce Wayne out … call me later?" He said.

"You bet I will!" She said. They terminated the communications link. Bruce smiled and took a deep breath, unable to suppress the goose bumps all over his body. He could face Shareholders with a clear mind.

"Thank you Wilfred, I should be back in about an hour." He said.

"Very well Sir!" Wilfred replied.

Bruce got out, briefcase in hand, walking to the building’s entrance.

Pablo Ramirez, a reformed youth referred to Wayne Enterprises by Batman was today’s Doorman.

"Mister Wayne, Good Morning!" He said, smiling. "I wanted to thank you again for giving me a chance sir, for the job opportunity and the night school tuition!"

"You came with great references, from Batman himself! How are the studies doing Pablo?" Bruce asked, smiling.

"Doing fine sir, that software design course is a blast; I think I’m one of the only ones to actually have fun taking the course!" Pablo said.

"Keep it up Pablo, HR already knows you are completing the course, there may be a position for you either in IT support or in product development!" Bruce said.

"Dios mio! I mean, thanks Mr Wayne!" Pablo said, smiling.

"You’re worth it amigo!" Bruce said, entering the building.

Pablo was a kid with a lot of potential, who got involved with the wrong crowd. His father had passed away of a heart attack when he was still an infant, and his mother had a very hard time raising four kids and working a day job at the same time.

Pablo was one of the purse-snatchers from the "Brotherhood" that was busted by Robin and Reverend Justice on his first training mission. As Batman, he had reviewed the arrest records from Commissioner Gordon’s files with a little help from Oracle.

Pablo stuck out of the pack like a sore thumb: he had been nicknamed ‘The Intellectual’ by the other gang members. He always carried a paperback in his knapsack, stuck to soda where the others indulged in beer or hard liquor, and while he did join in the ‘ganja’ sessions every once and again, he was one of the least frequent participants.

He was a gifted purse-snatcher though … but Batman felt he had a chance for reform. He felt the kid deserved a chance at something better. Therefore, as Bruce Wayne, he posted bail for young Pablo with a few conditions: Pablo would get a part-time job with Wayne Enterprises and go to School.

Pablo’s Parole Officer would update Bruce that he was indeed keeping his nose clean, going to School and had not missed a day’s work. Bruce could not repress a proud smile.

He got into the elevator and pressed the button to the top floor. "Shareholders, here I come." He thought. "I’m just relieved to know the away team is well and on its way back, I’m still not too thrilled with the Guardians of the Universe, but at least our people are safe."

Lucious Fox greeted him at the elevator. "Good morning Bruce, we still have a few Shareholders on their way stuck in rush hour traffic and a few playing hooky; the ones who are already here have taken their seats in the small auditorium." He said.

Bruce nodded, "We’ll wait an extra 15 minutes until we have Quorum, and then we’ll proceed. I’m sure we all have busy schedules and business to attend to." Bruce said. Lucious nodded.

They took their place behind the podium. Bruce stepped up to the microphone.

"Good morning Ladies and Gentlemen, we do not yet have Quorum so we will wait an extra 15 minutes to give your fellow Shareholders stuck in traffic a chance to arrive. Once we have Quorum I will give the floor to Mr. Fox and to Mr Blake who will review the Quarterly report."

Bruce smiled, "Off the record, we’re doing fine – we have not taken any losses and we have made significant profits." He said. Such meetings usually bored him, but the news he had just received from Diana was giving him a more cheerful outlook.

The Shareholders present laughed. Bruce sat near Mr Fox and Mr. Blake. As they waited, he was looking forward to another meeting – the one with Dick Grayson, Joey Lucas and Lois Lane-Kent.

"I still can’t tell them the specifics, but at least I can reassure them that their loved ones are safe and on their way back." Bruce thought, nodding absent-mindedly at what Mr Blake was telling him.

He looked at Blake with a curious look as he heard him say "Miss Prinze…"

"I’m sorry Peter; I was lost in my own train of thought, what was that?" Bruce said.

Pete Blake chuckled, recognising the absent-minded look on Bruce’s face.

"I was asking you if Miss Prinze would join us at next month’s fund raiser." He said.

Bruce smiled and said, "That’s Prince. Diana’s schedule is rather busy but I did invite her. I often have impromptu emergencies myself …"

"Don’t I know it!" Pete said.

"Don’t get personal Pete." Lucious Fox said dryly, "Bruce designated us both his point men for a reason: he needs trustworthy men to mind the shop when his other obligations take precedence. We both know that when tough decisions need to be made, Bruce is there to make them. Wayne Enterprises is a big, big machine."

Peter Blake looked at Bruce and Lucious gape mouthed, looking embarrassed. Bruce chuckled.

"Relax Mr. Fox, I’m sure Peter was only kidding, weren’t you Pete?" Bruce said.

"Yeah, that’s me the big kidder!" He said, with a flustered smile.

Lucious Fox cast him a dirty look as Bruce chuckled some more. He stepped up to the microphone again.

"All right, I believe we have Quorum now? Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to Wayne Enterprises’ Quarterly Shareholders Meeting. I now give the floor to Mr. Lucious Fox who will go over the main lines of the Quarterly Report." Bruce said.

Lucious stepped up to the podium. Bruce could not help but give his watch a furtive glance. "I just hope this meeting doesn’t drag on!" He thought.

After departing from the Gotham Auditorium the day before, Dick and Kory had taken a transport back to her apartment in San Francisco and were getting ready for what should have been a relaxing evening.

"I’ll order the Chinese food Kory, would you like the usual?" He asked.

"Yes my Robin, and make sure they do not forget the Cookies of Fortune this time!" She said.

"Fortune cookies!" Dick thought with a grin. He dialled the Chinese Restaurant.

"Hello, I would like to order one Chicken in Black bean sauce with steamed rice, one Orange Beef stir-fry with the skinny rice noodles; two Wont-Ton soups and an order of Spring Rolls. Oh, and don’t forget the Fortune Cookies!" Dick said, with a grin.

"Yes, you should have us on file, under the name Dick Grayson…yes, same delivery address and method of payment. Thanks!" Dick hung up the phone.

"Food’s on the way Star!" He said. In the same way she called him "My Robin" as a term of endearment, he sometimes called her "Star" when they were alone.

"I have chosen a few movies," She said, "Comedies; I hope that is o-k?"

"Baby, as long as we’re spending time together I’ll gladly watch whatever you’ve chosen!" He said.

They hugged and kissed. Thirty minutes later, the delivery boy was knocking at the door with dinner. They sat down on the couch in front of the television set and opened the boxes. Dick put the first DVD in and pressed play.

He sat next to Kory and they ate, watching the first movie. Twenty minutes into the movie, Kory’s Titan communicator chimed.

"Yes?" She said.

"Sorry to bug you during your time off Starfire, but I have an urgent communiqué from Superman." Cyborg said.

"Superman wants to talk to me?" She said, surprised. "Thank you Cyborg, please patch him through." She gave Dick a puzzled look and shrugged.

Dick put the movie on pause and put away the empty food containers as Kory spoke to Superman.

"Of course I am willing to help Superman, I am honoured, but why can’t I …I see …I understand. Allow me to finish dinner and change. I will request a transport to the Watchtower in a few minutes." She said.

She was disappointed her quiet evening with Dick was being disrupted, but excited and honoured to join the likes of Superman, Wonder Woman, Martian Manhunter and Hawkgirl who needed her help.

"Dick, I am sorry, but I was just asked by Superman to join an off world taskforce … he did not get into the details, he just said that my experience in inter-galactic missions would be an asset to them …" She said.

"And you accepted." Dick finished her sentence, smiling, "I don’t blame you, can’t deny Superman!" He said with a smirk.

They embraced and kissed. "Just promise me you’ll be careful? I know we’ve been placed in life or death situations before and I know you can hold more than your own in a fight …but as your loving boyfriend I worry anyway!" He said, looking in her lovely green eyes.

She smiled and kissed him again. "I had better get changed!" She said, smiling.

Once dressed in her Starfire suit, she requested a transport to the Watchtower.

"Shall I take a nap then?" he mumbled to himself.

Instead, he picked up his communicator. "Grayson to Titan Tower come in?"

"Titan Tower here," Cyborg’s voice answered, "How’s the sabbatical going Dick?"

"Interrupted at every turn," Dick said, "but in a way that’s a good thing: Star and I would be pretty bored otherwise! How is life in the Tower?"

"Same old same old my friend – the collaboration we’ve setup with Young Justice is working out fine – it’s a pleasure to count Wondergirl in our ranks again! Titan Tower hasn’t been this busy in a long, long time." Cyborg said.

"Beast Boy is still being a pest to Raven…but between you and me I think she enjoys the attention!" Cyborg added, snickering. "Lobo can be a blow hard at times, and he gets on everybody’s nerves. I had to put him in his place more than a few times, so did Superboy in fact …but I think he’s starting to get the picture."

"I’m glad to hear that big guy. Star just left; any idea of what that mission Superman asked her to join is all about?" Dick asked.

"Search me; I was actually surprised Superman made the call and not Batman." Cyborg said, "I know as much as you do."

Dick nodded. "I agree, ever since Batman and Starfire buried the hatchet you’d think he would have been the one making the call... very odd indeed! I’m going to dig a bit deeper. Ciao Cyborg!" He said.

They terminated the link. "Though I’m sure Batman won’t be very talkative either if I ask him …," Dick thought.

He dialled a different number on his communicator. "Nightwing to Oracle, are you there Barbara?" Dick said.

There was a pause. "Oracle here Dick, sorry for the delay, I was prepping tonight’s Gotham Knights team. Batman’s neck deep in a top secret operation and we needed once again to request assistance from Green Arrow and Black Canary to back up Robin and Batgirl." Oracle said.

"Sounds like a busy night up ahead, I have a hunch Starfire was just called upon to join that top secret mission." Dick said, "Any idea what that mission’s all about?"

"This is one case where I’m completely in the dark Dick," Oracle said, "my security access code has been temporarily revoked and Batman and Mr Terrific are being very tight-lipped about it. All I’ve been able to find out was that Superman is leading a special ops team comprised of Martian Manhunter, Wonder Woman, Hawkgirl and Starfire."

Dick frowned. "The Justice League usually isn’t this secretive towards colleagues from the Justice League, or the Titans or Young Justice…. what ever that special ops team is set out to do, it must be something big." He said. "Thanks Barb, I’ll buzz Joey and see what he knows."

"Anytime Dick!" Oracle said.

Dick dialled Joey’s number, but only got his voicemail. He tried the Watchtower next. "Nightwing to Watchtower 1?" he said.

"Watchtower 1 Mister Terrific here, how can I help you Nightwing?" Mr. Terrific said.

"I am trying to locate Reverend Justice; do you know where he is?" Dick asked.

"He is currently visiting his Godson in Dr. Fate’s Domain; he is later scheduled for Physiotherapy in Sickbay. In fact, Hawkgirl was pretty adamant he gets the physio done." Mr Terrific said.

"I can understand that, he’s taken some pretty stiff falls this morning. I wanted to ask him if Shy had said anything about the mission our significant others are involved in …," Dick said, testing the waters.

"I seriously doubt he knows anything – that mission is classified to all personnel including me. Only the founding members are in the know, and sworn to secrecy." Mr Terrific said.

"Damn, that serious huh?" Dick said, "Should I be worried?"

"As we all know, there will always be risks in our line of business." Mr Terrific said, "But there is a reason Superman, Martian Manhunter, Wonder Woman, Hawkgirl and Starfire were chosen for this particular mission: they’re the best at what they do, and they can be relied upon."

Dick sighed. "Thanks Mike, I’ll see if I can’t get a hold of Joey or Bruce tomorrow. With our better halves away from us, I can bet I’m not the only one to be worried, Nightwing out."

Dick needed to change his train of thought. He decided to go for a jog. He changed into shorts and a t-shirt and put his running shoes on. The phone rang.

"Hello?" he said.

"Dick darling, Van here, can you get my favourite model on the phone please? I have an important photo shoot in two days and I desperately need her!" Vania Ruchinsky was a photographer - flamboyant, arrogant, pushy, possessive, and obsessed with naked women. Dick could not stand him.

Vania made it no secret he felt nothing but spite towards Dick. To him, Dick Grayson was the competition, the one keeping him from seducing the attractive - and much younger than his own wife – Supermodel Kory Anders.

"Van, how many times must we have this discussion? Proper channels, proper procedure. Kory agreed to work with you only if a) you did not book her in impromptu shoots, b) gave her 2 weeks notice on any possible shoots and c) didn’t call her at home for bookings, her agent handles those." Dick said, keeping his temper in check.

With Kory away on a dangerous mission, he did not need to deal with the old letch. Dick took a deep breath.

"And furthermore, I’ve warned you about calling me ‘darling’ as in don’t. Call Kory’s agent; do the booking through him. You might actually learn something important, like professionalism?" Dick said.

"Oh, I warned her dating you was a bad idea! I told her allowing you to move in with her would be the death of her career! You’re ruining her you selfish bastard! I could have made her great, I could have made her ...," Vania said in a high-pitched voice.

"Made her into what Van, another one of your sleazy pornographic models?" Dick said, with his teeth clenched, red with anger.

"She’s wasting her life with you!" Van tried to interject, only infuriating Dick the more.

"Let this be your final warning, Kory has been more than patient with you, so has her agent, so have I. Now I’m no longer asking you, I’m telling you, leave-her-alone. One more call to this number, one more call to her cell and we’ll have a restraining order slapped on you so fast you won’t know what hit you!" Dick hissed, and then slammed the phone back on the cradle.

How desperately he needed to blow off some steam now. He took his MP3 player from the coffee table and slipped the strap around his neck. He put the earphones on and walked out, locking the door behind him going for a jog. Then he chuckled.

"Van you stupid old lecher, I just saved your life. Kory would hand you your lungs if you tried to get her to take her clothes off!" He thought, with a grin on his face.

Rather than waiting for the elevator, he took the stairs. It was a nice sunny day in Frisco and he was going to take advantage of it. He jogged. Around him, people were walking their dogs, there were streetcars going uphill, hotdog vendors doing business, in other words the usual Frisco sights.

Dick ran, first downhill to warm-up, and then adjusted his pace, going uphill. "Just blow off steam, Van will leave us alone, and Kory will be fine, the whole team will be." He reasoned.

Dick stopped at the top of the hill, doubled over, gasping for air, feeling as if he was about to lose his dinner; passers by on the sidewalk casting him curious glances. He wiped the sweat from his brow, catching his breath.

"Mental note to self, next time, focus on jogs on the treadmill – no wind, no crowded sidewalks, less pollution; less concrete…and be sure not to jog right after a big dinner," Dick thought, "I’m such a bone head!"

Dick headed back home, walking. He took the elevator up to her apartment – their apartment, he reminded himself with a grin – and went back in. He locked the door behind him. He put the MP3 player back on the coffee table and took his sweat drenched t-shirt, shorts and socks off, tossing them in the laundry hamper.

"What I need now is a hot shower, and no more phone calls. I’ll only answer the communicator if Kory’s calling …or if Bruce, Barb or Mr Terrific have updates from the away team." He thought.

He stepped in the bathroom and turned the water on, waiting for the temperature to be hot but not scalding. He got in the shower, letting the water massage his scalp, face, chest and shoulders, feeling the tension in his entire body melt away as the hot water washed over his body.

He reached for the bar of soap and saw a stand of hair, long and fiery red, from the last time Kory had showered. He smiled, yet felt his throat tighten. The feeling was similar to what he felt when she had left for Tamaran some years before, to get married to Karras.

"Don’t be stupid, she came back to me, like in that old Arabic proverb –if you truly love that bird, open up its cage and set it free. If it never returns, it never was truly yours; but if it returns to you, it is truly yours. This is a different: it’s a mission, she’s not leaving me, she’ll be back, safe and sound." Dick reasoned, lathering up.

"The thing is, I’ve lost her once before, and I believed her to be gone for good. It felt like my heart had been ripped out of my chest. I guess deep inside I’m worried I’ll lose her again, no matter how much in love we are?" He sighed, rinsing off the soap and shampoo.

He wrapped a towel around his waist and grabbed Kory’s towel to dry his hair. She usually gave him a hard time when he did this …he neatly folded her towel and put it back on the towel pole, muttering "Sorry about that Star," in spite of himself.

He walked into the bedroom and lay down across the bed, his head on Kory’s side.

"This is crazy; Star’s been in many dangerous situations and handled them perfectly well. She pulled my bacon out of the fire many times too, the same way Diana did for Bruce in the Justice League." He thought, "It’s like, since we became an item again I’ve been behaving like she’s a damsel in distress, which she isn’t. She’s an experienced crime fighter, a worthy warrior and is experienced in deep space missions."

He closed his eyes and felt himself nodding off. He readjusted his position in bed and fell asleep, facing her side of the bed.

He woke up to the sound of the bedroom TV set. That was Kory’s favourite way to wake up: with the Cartoon Network at seven am. He watched absent-mindedly for a few minutes then got up.

There was still no sign from the away team, no messages on his voicemail or in his email. He was beginning to worry again.

He was in the middle of fixing breakfast when the phone rang. "Who could be calling on the regular line this early in the morning?" He wondered.

"Master Grayson, I hope I am not waking you up?" Alfred asked.

"Of course, it’s three hours later in Gotham." Dick thought.

"It’s okay Alfred; I was up about a half hour ago, what’s up?" Dick said.

"Master Bruce has been rather worried since the Justice League team left yesterday. He was hoping to gather you, Mister Lucas and Mrs. Lane-Kent in Wayne Manor this after-noon; trade notes and support one another?" Alfred said.

Dick smiled. So Bruce was not immune to worry after all, in fact having his loved one in that away team must have been equally hard on him, perhaps more since he is aware of the purpose of the mission, being a Founding Member and sworn to secrecy.

"Sounds like a wonderful idea Alfred. Just give me a chance to eat breakfast, shower and get dressed. I’ll be right over …is the Bat-Cave’s transport pad still active? It may be more precise than a point-to-point transport using the Watchtower’s transport system." Dick said.

"Indeed Master Grayson, The Bat-Cave’s transport pad is active, I trust Miss Kory’s apartment also has an active transport pad?" Alfred asked.

"Yep, we’ve used it to transport to the Bat-Cave before, as well as to Titan Tower. It’s just that Bruce has the bad habit of switching the Bat-Cave’s transport pad off when he wants privacy. I should be there soon." Dick said.

"Splendid Sir, 2 pm – that is noon your time, would that time be convenient? I am not sure I should reveal this right away, but Master Bruce does have some good news to share …," Alfred said.

"2 pm sounds fine Alfred; it’s good to know there’s encouraging news! See you in a bit." Dick said, putting the handset back on the cradle.

He turned to face the stove top and chuckled. "Cooking scrambled eggs usually works best if the stove top is actually turned on!" He thought." Okay Grayson, breakfast, dishes, shower and head over to Wayne Manor." Dick thought, putting the stove element on medium-high.

It was not like him to rush through breakfast, but with the veil of secrecy covering the away team’s mission, he needed to hear some good news, his mind needed some peace.

He wanted to hear everyone was all right, and that Kory would be in his arms soon. He wolfed breakfast down with a cup of instant coffee. He hated the flavour of instant, but wanted to be done in a hurry.

He washed the morning dishes and let them to drip dry in the dish rack. Kory would give him an earful for that…and he was looking forward to it. He showered, shaved and got dressed. He made sure his personal communicator was in his pocket, as well as his honorary Justice League one, just in case.

"I’m still early, and that’s fine. It will be a pleasure to wait in Wayne Manor doing small talk with Alfred. I can’t wait for Bruce, Joey and Lois to make it there!" Dick thought, stepping on the transport pad.

"Direct transport to Bat-Cave." Dick said. He materialized in the Bat-Cave, in near complete darkness.

"Maybe I should have advised Alfred I’d be early?" Dick mumbled to himself. He allowed his vision to adjust, focusing on the faint glow coming from the Bat-Computer, while the giant screen was on power saving mode.

He made his way carefully towards the Bat-Computer, nearly tripping over the chair. Feeling his way, he located the mouse and the monitor lit up. He typed a few commands. The computer was on voice recognition for Bruce only, so he needed to turn the lighting system on manually.

The Bat-Cave lit-up. Dick smiled and made his way to the door to the staircase leading to Wayne Manor. Alfred greeted him at the top of the stairs.

"Nice to see you Master Grayson, Master Bruce is still at the Shareholders meeting. I apologise for not having the Bat-Cave lights on, I was not expecting you so soon." Alfred said. "Mister Lucas and Mrs Lane-Kent are en route."

"I found my way upstairs Alfred, no worries!" Dick said.

"I apologise, I have several other tasks to perform until the two o’clock meeting, I…" Alfred said.

"Don’t worry about it Alfred, I’ll take a walk in the gardens, enjoy some fresh air." Dick said.

Alfred bowed courteously and went about his work. Dick walked outside to the gardens. He made his way to one of the benches, by the lilac trees and Rose bushes. Dick was impressed. "Whomever Alfred hired for the gardens maintenance, they deserve every penny of the money paid to them." He thought.

"Hey there Dick, Alfred told me I’d find you here!" a familiar voice said. Dick looked down from the sky and smiled. Joey had also shown up early. He got up and they shook hands.

"Fancy meeting you here!" Dick said with a wink.

Joey sighed and they both sat down.

"How do you deal with it Dick, that wait in silence?" Joey asked, looking at his feet.. "Agreed, it’s not the first time Shy’s on an away mission …but somehow that whole secrecy is driving me up the wall. I know she can handle herself, better than I ever could in a similar situation. But somehow …"

"Somehow, you fear that this time might be the last time, and that the one you love more than life itself won’t return." Dick said, finishing Joey’s sentence.

"You feel it too?" Joey asked.

Dick nodded. "Like you were saying: it’s the secrecy that’s killing me too, not being able to contact Kory the way I usually do… it makes me realize how precious she is to me. She’s my world, the same way Shayera is yours, Diana is Bruce’s and Clark is Lois’." He said.

Joey nodded gravely. "Dick, you’re my witness, I’ll never complain again when Shayera acts like an overprotective mother-hen towards me. In fact I’ll enjoy every second of it." He said.

"You’re kidding, Shayera? I never pictured her as the mother-hen type, then again love makes people act in uncharacteristic ways," Dick said, smiling.

Joey smiled. "Okay so maybe I’m exaggerating a bit when I say mother- hen. But she is very caring, and gets over-concerned … kind of like the way I’m feeling for her right now. Dude, you should have heard how upset she was the night before the Boat Cruise. I was back from Gotham Knights patrol and Harley Quinn had tried to strangle me with a rope. Shayera was livid, she wanted Harley’s head!" Joey said, smiling at the memory.

"Yeah, Oracle described the attack to Kory and me. Even with the element of surprise Harley couldn’t strangle the good Reverend and his thick muscular neck!" Dick said.

"That’s how I was introduced to Shy’s Thanagarian healing methods. You see, we were already into therapeutic massage, to relax after hard stressful days, but her wonderful hands got rid of the stiff neck I got from Harley pretty rapidly." Joey said smiling.

"I see the two of you got a head start!" Bruce said. Still dressed in his business suit, he joined Dick and Joey in the gardens.

"How was the Shareholders’ meeting Bruce?" Joey asked.

"Long and boring, and thank God I have trustworthy men handling business while I’m busy with other things, and that no major decision can be made without my specific consent, it keeps my business associates honest!" Bruce said with a grin.

"How about we reconvene in the dining room?" He asked, "I need to change out of this suit and Alfred has tea, coffee and sandwiches ready for us. Lois just called, she’s running a bit late due to traffic but she’s halfway between Metropolis and Gotham City. She’ll be here soon."

Dick and Joey smiled and nodded.

Lois was driving towards Gotham City, heading to Wayne Manor. It had been a busy past couple of days at the Daily Planet, and Alfred’s phone call happened just at the right time.

She simply told the editor in chief she had a major scoop on Superman’s whereabouts - which may very well be the case if Bruce decides to lift the veil of silence for her – she could only hope – and she was on her merry way with no further questions asked.

Lois knew that due to obvious reasons, Clark often had to keep her in the dark about many of his doings and whereabouts when he was Superman.

She understood it, and Clark always made it up to her, which was nice, but she sometimes could feel an empty space in her life. Work did help, and she had become good friends with the likes of Linda Park-West, Wonder Woman, Hawkgirl, Oracle, Vixen and Black Canary.

And it was wonderful to have the girls nights out, but it still did not make up for her needing her husband. She sighed.

"Oh, stop feeling sorry for yourself; you knew exactly what you were getting yourself into when you got married to Superman. Clark has been loving, caring and very giving to me. He’s rushed to me between missions and Sentry shifts just to be with me, often neglecting to eat or sleep." She thought, wishing traffic would move a bit faster.

"Agreed, his Kryptonian physiognomy doesn’t require as much sleep or food as I do …but all the same, he is trying his best to be a good husband on top of being a great Super hero …yes I said it: Super hero, and I dare anyone to argue with me!" She thought, now stuck behind a tourist bus going much too slow and unable to pass it.

Clark had often teased her about using the term "Super hero", feeling that it was a bit presumptuous. She smirked, "You got to call a spade a spade hubby dearest!" she thought. "What you great people of the Justice League, Titans and Young Justice do on a daily basis qualify you all as Super Heroes, whether super powers are involved or not."

She felt especially close to Linda, Flash’s wife. They were in a similar predicament: journalists married to two founding Members of the Justice League, and both sworn to secrecy.

They were privy to a lot of sensitive information – the secret identities of the founding Justice League members among many things, sensitive information that must remain secret in spite of their jobs.

She tried discussing the latest Mission with Linda via email, and found out Flash was one of the founding members who was not part of the off world mission and quite uncharacteristically, Flash was keeping tight lipped about it.

Linda was growing frustrated with him, but was thankful he had stayed on Earth, close to her.

The tourist bus took an exit and Lois managed to pick up some speed. "Linda’s one of the lucky ones, as was Vixen – Flash did let it slip Green Lantern wasn’t part of the away team. I have to wonder why – wouldn’t his powers be well suited for an off-world mission?" She wondered.

So many questions going unanswered, never mind her journalistic curiosity, she was curious to find out for herself! Then again, she always had the latest scoop, from the horse’s mouth. "What ever it is they are up to out there, I’ll be the first to know … me and Linda that is, which is fine."

She had met Joey and Dick a few times before, enough to know they were gentlemen, witty and caring. Joey had shown a lot of class at the last Ladies Night poker game, in spite of Shayerea omitting to tell him they were using his apartment.

Bruce’s social skills had improved in spades since he started dating Diana; and kept his sarcasm in check "My own sarcasm’s been kept in check since marrying Clark, well, somewhat anyway!" Lois thought, "I guess being in a committed relationship with a Super hero matures you real fast!" She grinned.

"Bruce is a real sweetie deep inside. Like Clark, he lost his parents at a very young age, but in his case, he actually witnessed them being killed. That’s enough to make anyone grow cold and bitter, yet Bruce has always been a kind, decent man at the core." She thought, seeing the first Gotham City sign.

Clark had never gotten into details, but he alluded that he and Bruce had met once when they were just boys. A young Bruce Wayne had met Clark as Superboy at a Country fair, and even then had nearly exposed him as Clark Kent. "Even as a boy the seeds of the World’s greatest detective were sprouting." She thought, with a snicker.

Ultimately, Bruce understood the consequences of exposing Superboy, so he destroyed all evidence and kept Clark’s secret safe. Even before being formally introduced, they were like brothers, two of a kind.

Lois could not help but remember all of the harsh words Clark and Bruce had traded over the years, and yet, in spite of it all, they were always there for each other when in need.

"Yes, truly like brothers: Bruce would give his life for Clark, and Clark his for Bruce." She thought, with a smile, tears stinging her eyes.

"The simple fact that Bruce is taking the time to see me, Dick and Joey as our loved ones may be in danger is proof enough that underneath the cold exterior lay a caring, loving man." Lois thought, seeing the first houses of Gotham City ahead of her. Another twenty minutes and she would be at Wayne Manor.

She saw her smile in the rear-view mirror and chuckled. "Smiling to myself, be careful Lois, people will talk!" She thought.

Since the day Clark came clean and admitted to her he was indeed Superman, ending years of cat and mouse between them; life had been anything but boring.

"The bastard robbed me of the biggest scoop ever by swearing me to secrecy…so I married him!" She thought, this time laughing aloud, ignoring the curious glances from other cars. "I take it back Clark, you’ve been anything but a bastard to me!"

For all of those years she had suspected he was Superman. She had to give him credit: Clark had a knack for acting extra nerdy, extra goofy, extra klutzy whenever she had her suspicions about him being Superman, changing her mind on the spot – there was no way he could be Superman.

Then one day, he confided in her, put his trust in her. It took her time to sort through her feelings, but in the end it all made sense. She always felt at ease with Clark, as if she could tell him anything.

In the past, she often felt she could never love Clark, not when Superman was obviously interested in her…and then the bomb was dropped: he was Superman!

Clark was the sensitive, caring half while Kal-El – Superman – was the strong, virtuous, heroic half, making the man she loved whole.

Yes, their relationship had been a roller-coaster ride, but overall, she would not have had it any other way. She drove through the Gotham City downtown core, heading towards the City Limits, where Wayne Manor was located.

She picked up her cell phone and dialled Bruce’s personal line. "Hello, Bruce? Lois here! I’m driving through downtown Gotham on my way to your place, Traffic’s pretty dense but I’ll be there soon! Bye!"

Somehow, she drew solace from the sound of Bruce’s voice: he sounded relaxed and in a good mood. "Thus he has no bad news …," she thought, intuitively.

"Is this any surprise silly girl? Superman even cheated death itself and returned after we all thought Darkseid had killed him! Clark is fine, the entire away team is fine. Which doesn’t mean a bit of moral support from Bruce, Dick and Joey isn’t welcome!" Her mind reasoned.

She took the exit that led to the more posh, residential part of Gotham City. Her mind strayed to the story she had written on the Wayne Legacy; Bruce’s father – Dr Thomas Wayne – saw himself more as a country Doctor and as a humanitarian than he did a rich industrialist.

Off the record, Bruce had mentioned to her that it was his father’s ideal that kept him sane, fighting for the poor and the weak.

Clark and Bruce had a lot in common: orphaned boys who decided to fight the good fight. Agreed there was a difference: Jonathan and Martha Kent had adopted Clark, surrounding him with love and kindness. He did not have to deal with the same anger and lust for revenge Bruce did.

Alfred Pennyworth and Martha Wayne’s older sister, the late Harriet Cooper, tried their best to give young Bruce a loving home, but Wayne Enterprise trustees also had their say in Bruce’s fate, sending him abroad to "the best boarding schools available", not caring that Bruce really needed to be comforted and loved.

"Agreed, had Bruce’s circumstances been any different, there wouldn’t be a Batman!" Lois theorized, and then smirked, "It never dawned on me before that Clark’s adoptive Mom and Bruce’s Mom are both named Martha!"

Wayne Manor was finally in view. "Hubby’s best friend and our landlord too …no complaints, Bruce’s high security building is second to none!" she mumbled to herself as she pulled into the driveway.

She parked and drew in a deep breath coming out of the car. Now that she had made it to Bruce’s impromptu meeting, she began feeling anxious. She walked to the entranceway and rang the doorbell. After a few moments, Alfred came to greet her.

"Ms Lois, so glad to see you," He said, smiling courteously, "please, come right this way!"

She followed Alfred who led her to the dining room. Bruce, Dick and Joey were sitting around the table. Plates of sandwiches and cold cuts were on the table, as well as pots of coffee and tea.

"Gentlemen, Ms Lois has arrived!" Alfred said.

Bruce, Dick and Joey stood up in a courteous fashion, smiling.

"I see we will need more coffee," Alfred said, "please, allow me!" and he took his diplomatic exit.

Bruce walked up to Lois and said, "Welcome Lois, please have a seat, have some food!" giving her a friendly hug.

Lois smiled. Dick and Joey followed suite, also giving her a friendly hug. They sat down. Lois helped herself to some sandwiches and coffee.

"As you well know, I am sworn to secrecy as far as the specifics of the away mission go," Bruce began, "But I can tell you this much: the mission was a success. We have no casualties, and the only reason Clark, Diana, Kory, Shayera and J’onn aren’t here right now to tell you themselves is that the Javelin has sustained some minor damage. The trip there was a few hours in hyper drive, but will take another three to four days to return."

"Oh, thank God!" Lois said.

Dick and Joey gave each other a high-five.

"I only got that news this morning while I was on my way to the Shareholders Meeting," Bruce continued, "a private communiqué on an encrypted channel. My original intention was for us to provide moral support for each other, so I had Alfred contact all of you."

"Bruce, I find this news is very comforting!" Joey said, with a relieved smile on his face.

"You said it brother, as hard as I tried not to worry, the silence was driving me insane!" Dick said.

"I tried immersing myself into work and short term it worked … but I confess, not hearing from Clark with no-one saying a word …I was feeling anxious too!" Lois said.

"It’s only a matter of time now my friends!" Bruce said. "Lois, you’re welcome to stay as my guest until the team is back safe and sound."

"Thanks for the offer Bruce, that’s sweet of you, but I’m a workaholic, there’s too much work at the Daily Planet for me to do!" She said.

"Bored yet with your Sabbatical Dick?" Bruce asked.

"How can I, you keep pulling me back in!" Dick said with a chuckle.

Bruce smiled, "And you Joey, how’s the back?" Bruce asked.

"No restriction in motion so I think I’m safe from Christy Sasake …" he smiled sheepishly, "and no pins and needles sensations in my hands and feet. The Physio was a good idea Bruce." Joey said.

"If you both feel up to it I could use your help patrolling the City tonight. Oracle has the night off as do Robin and Batgirl, and my usual help from the Justice League is busy on other missions." Bruce said.

Dick and Joey smiled.

"Count me in!" Dick said.

"Ditto here," Joey said, "I’m on Justice League rotation for the next 8 days straight – the result of my being off from injuries for so long. I need the Reverend Justice action for a change … I just hope Shayera will be there to team up with me."

"She will bro, she will," Dick said, "as a Reverend you should know something about having faith!"

Lois chuckled at that, nearly spitting out her sip of coffee. They turned to look at her.

"As you’ve already figured out I’m not a real preacher Lois," Joey said, "I understand the humour in this."

Lois shook her head, catching her breath, "You guys just reminded me of the exclusive we did on hardened criminals and super-villains," Lois said, with a smile, "research was also done on Joker and Penguin; and they are still ranting and raving about the crazy preacher who nearly sent them to hell, that’s what had me giggling!"

Joey shrugged, looking sheepish as Bruce and Dick joined Lois chuckling.

"Told you you’d put the fear of God in them!" Bruce said.

"Joker just made me so furious…so did Harley Quinn, I hear her lawyer is still pushing for her parole!" Joey said, shaking his head, taking a sip of coffee.

"She’ll be getting no help from me this time around," Bruce said; "she simply cannot be trusted."

"As far as Penguin goes, Shy deserves half the credit. She timed the descent perfectly and caught Oswald & me a few feet from the pavement, enough to make old Penguin soil himself!" Joey said, with a satisfied smile on his face.

"Those lines on Heaven, Hell, Purgatory and his soul being too dark from redemption were pure genius though; I’ve never seen Penguin so mortified!" Dick said, chuckling.

"It served him right for stabbing my pal Batman in the leg!" Joey said

"Penguin stabbed you? Clark never told me that!" Lois said, putting her cup down.

"That’s because I never mentioned it to him. It was only a flesh wound, no big deal. Diana gave me a tetanus shot and bandaged my leg quite well. Dr. Wilder put me on antibiotics for the following 15 days, just to be sure there would be no infection. The blade didn’t hit any major artery or damage any nerves. I was very fortunate Penguin has a lousy aim." Bruce said, dismissively.

"No big deal? You could have bled to death had your Knights not been there with you! Crazy male pride, you men have!" Lois said, rolling her eyes.

Dick and Joy turned their heads, bursting out laughing, unable to be discreet about it.

Bruce cast them an annoyed glance, and looked at Lois.

"I didn’t say it was painless or pleasant Lois, I had to walk around leaning on Diana for the first night and walk with a cane for the next couple of weeks. I had to rely on the Knights to take care of Gotham City and was off the Justice League duty roster until I was fully healed." Bruce said, "J’onn found out – he always does – so I figured it was pointless to let the entire Justice League know that the one moment I left my guard down I got a knife in the quad from the Penguin."

Lois nodded, "I know, Batman has an image to keep up. But still, Wonder Woman, Hawkgirl, hell the whole Gotham Knights team present knew …you know Clark would have been discreet about it!" she said.

"I know," Bruce said, smiling. "However, the conversation wouldn’t budge from Paris or Jam night at Sinful Sadie’s where we got to see Joey and his brother perform, then we got busy with Justice League matters … the wounded leg didn’t seem so important any more!"

"That was very noble of you Mr Wayne!" Lois said, with a smile. "Thank you for having me over Bruce, you boys need to get ready for tonight’s patrol and I have a long drive home ahead of me. Do call me when the Javelin makes it back?"

"It’s a promise Lois!" Bruce said. They stood up, once again each giving Lois a hug before she left.

"I guess you both should go home and change, we’ll reconvene in the Bat-Cave." Bruce said. Dick and Joey nodded.

About an hour later, Batman, Nightwing and Reverend Justice reconvened at the Bat-Cave.

"All right gentlemen, it’s the three of us assisting Gotham’s best tonight." Batman said. "We can’t rely on Oracle during her night off, but we may get a few assists from the Monitor Womb."

"So what, we just sit back in the Bat-Cave and wait?" Nightwing asked.

Batman shot Nightwing a subtle smile. "Don’t you know me yet?" He said, "The Peter the Great exhibit opens tonight at the Gotham Museum. Millions worth in jewelry and ancient artifacts, every jewel thief in the State will be hovering around!"

"More rooftop observation," Reverend Justice asked, "I like it!"

Batman nodded. "While Museum security and Gotham Police handle matters from street level, we monitor the museum here, here and here." Batman said, pointing to a map on the Bat-Computer screen.

"The Woodland condos, the Gotham Credit Union Building and the Gotham Gazette Building …perfect vantage point, we can easily intervene if trouble arises!" Nightwing said. "Won’t be the same without Starfire though …" he thought, and then shook his head, dismissing the thought.

A familiar beeping sound chimed in Batman’s ear. "Hold on gentlemen, incoming transmission." He said. "Batman here!"

"It’s me tough guy," Wonder Woman’s voice said. "I have more good news my love: J’onn, Kal and Kory have put in extra effort in repairing the hyper drive. It isn’t at 100% capacity yet, but we do have 75% efficiency as opposed to 45%. This has reduced our return trip to about 10 hours rather than 3 to 4 days as we originally thought when the ship was damaged!"

Batman smiled. "That is wonderful news Princess, I can’t wait! Could you put Shy and Kory on? I’ll three-way the encrypted transmission to Joey and Dick. I see no hurt in having them hear their loved one’s voice!" He said.

Nightwing and Reverend Justice smiled.

"They would be very happy to do so Bruce," Wonder Woman said.

Batman typed a few keys on the Bat-Computer. Reverend Justice and Nightwing heard crackling in their communicators.

"Joey?" Hawkgirl’s voice said, "How’s the back? You’ve stayed out of trouble right? You didn’t play hooky from the physiotherapy did you?"

Reverend Justice smiled, chuckling. "I missed the sound of your voice Angel! The back is fine; thanks to you and to Dr. Sasake … I need to have a word with you about that!" He said, "And Batman made sure I stay out of trouble…tonight’s my turn to keep an eye on him!" He said, with a grin.

"I miss you too preacher, I’ll be on the duty roster to team up with you, I promise! J’onn, Kory and I managed to fix the hyper drive as best as we can, we’ll be there late tomorrow morning, I can’t wait!" She said.

"Dick? Are you there my Robin?" Starfire’s voice said, joining in the conversation.

"Right here Star, you can’t imagine how relieved and happy the sound of your voice makes me feel!" Nightwing said.

"You have heard what Hawkgirl said: we will be back much sooner than anticipated. I cannot disclose any information but …you were on my mind throughout this mission. I miss you my love!" Starfire said.

Nightwing could feel his throat tighten. "I miss you too, so much." He said, almost breathless.

"I fear we must terminate the link my Robin. I shall see you in the morning!" She said.

Before anyone could say good-bye, the link terminated. Nightwing looked away, feeling tears in his eyes. Reverend Justice put a hand on his shoulder.

"No worries bro, I feel it too." The Reverend said.

"As do I," Batman said, "Why are we behaving like this? This was good news, we must be happy!"

"We need to get busy; it’ll make the wait more tolerable." Nightwing said.

Batman and Reverend Justice nodded. They went to their vehicles and drove to their respective buildings for the watch.

"Batman to Gotham Knights, I’m in position." Batman said.

"Reverend Justice to Gotham Knights, I’m also in position." Reverend Justice said.

"Nightwing to Gotham Knights, I’m in position…the streets are really abuzz tonight!" Nightwing said.

"Yes, Jim Gordon’s men will have their hands full tonight …keep your eyes peeled my friends!" Batman said.

They waited. The time spent waiting brought Batman back a memory, the night he and Wonder Woman were investigating a tip. The night she kept hinting at him she would love to go out with him, have some fun. The night Sorceress Circe transformed her into a pig, the night he could no longer deny being in love with Diana.

"Big revelation wasn’t it?" Batman thought, unable to repress a smile. "I was so used to hide behind those walls of pride that it never even occurred to me I was also allowed to be in love, to be happy…I nearly lost Diana for good too. I needed Alfred and Dick to put the facts in front of my face, and I know Kent had a hand in it as well. Little did I know Amazons can take a mate, and that Aphrodite herself assured their happiness? The cost was that Diana once again became an exile, mind you, she is welcome to visit Themiscyra, she even was their ambassador for a while, but she can never come back for good. And not once did she complain. I’m one lucky SOB."

"Gotham Knights report?" Batman asked, still smiling dreamily.

"Limousines, photographers and VIP’s, and crowds of on-lookers," Reverend Justice said, "some wrong-doers could do a lot of damage in these conditions – too many people for the police to open fire on would-be thieves."

"That’s where we come in Rev," Nightwing said, "the police can assure crowd control, but if anyone tries to go after "Peter the Great’s" treasures they’ll have to answer to us."

"Should the crowd be put in danger, let any would-be thief make their get away, and then we take pursuit. RJ’s right, too many lives would be at stake should a thief or thieves show up guns a-blazing," Batman said.

"Sound precaution Batman," Nightwing said, "I sure hope things stay quiet, the last thing we need is a panic on our hands."

The sound of an approaching helicopter interrupted their conversation.

"Kind of late for the traffic patrol isn’t it?" Reverend Justice said.

"Unmarked Military surplus," Batman said, using his compact infrared binoculars, "I have a bad feeling about this, RJ, try to see if you can’t take a peek from your angle?"

"Zooming in now Batman," Reverend Justice said. "I see plenty of ski masks and what looks like tear-gas guns in there!"

"Report confirmed from my angle Batman," Nightwing chimed in, "whatever those guys are up to it’s not tea with the Czar!"

"Batman to Sergeant Mendez, incoming trouble, evacuate the streets and lockup the Museum, I repeat evacuate the streets and lockup the Museum!" Batman said in his communicator, using the automated patch-through to Gotham PD.

As the helicopter swooped down to hover above the Museum, Batman fired a grappling hook at the helicopter’s landing gear, following them closely.

"Nightwing, did you see that?" Reverend Justice said.

"Yep, that was Vintage Batman! Let’s join him on the Museum’s roof – he’ll need our backup!" Nightwing said.

"Roger that!" Reverend Justice replied. While Nightwing also fired a grappling hook and swung towards the Museum, Reverend Justice powered up his n’th metal belt and took a running start, then jumped off his building, gliding towards the Museum.

"Shy would kill me if she saw me try this… but it works!" He thought. The jump gave him an adrenaline surge, which triggered the Rà’s Al Ghul’s antidote effect. His senses went to hyper as he glided towards the Museum, arms outstretched, every sensation heightened.

He changed his position to land feet first and deactivated the n’th metal belt, landing safely.

"Dude!" Nightwing said, joining him on the rooftop; "I didn’t know you could do that!"

"I wasn’t sure either; I got the idea from our last encounter with Rà’s al Ghul: Shayera used me as a human cannonball … the n’th metal belt reduces my apparent weight. It serves as a parachute …and as a para-sail of sorts!"

Nightwing and Reverend Justice ducked and rolled to avoid machine-gun fire from the helicopter.

"Talk about a warm welcome!’ Nightwing said.

"I get the feeling they’re not happy to see us!" Reverend Justice said.

They saw Batman hoist his way inside the helicopter. Batman knocked the gunman unconscious and the machine gun fell out of the copter, hitting the roof a few feet from them, clip neatly pulled out.

The gunman himself was next to fall out of the copter, and bounced limply off the roof of the museum.

"Ouch, that’ll leave a mark," Nightwing said with a grin, "fortunately for him he didn’t fall from very high."

Reverend Justice chuckled, "Hey Batman, leave us some!" He said, cuffing the unconscious gunman out of precaution.

The helicopter landed in a hurry at a safe distance from them. The propeller steadied itself, and the engine stopped. Nightwing and Reverend Justice stepped closer.

"Gentlemen, it is so nice of you to join us!" Batman said, with a grin. Handcuffed to the controls was the pilot, ski mask still on. Other than the gunman that Batman had thrown out, there were three other accomplices, all restrained with Bat-cuffs.

"You made it just in time for the unmasking." Batman said.

"No fair, you didn’t leave us any!" Nightwing said, with a smirk, Reverend Justice laughing.

"The gunman I’ve already identified as ‘Trigger-Happy’ Tony Malone, from the tattoo on the back of his trigger hand. Unless I’m way off base, the pilot is Matt ‘Corporal’ O’Hara." He pulled the mask off, indeed revealing O’Hara handcuffed to the helicopter controls.

"How on Earth could you tell?" Reverend Justice asked.

"Don’t interrupt him; he’s just getting warmed up!" Nightwing said, chuckling.

"They’re both part of a team of hoods for hire; they’ve worked in the past for the likes of Joker, Catwoman, Penguin, you get the idea, if you got the money, they got the time. I’ve tangled with them on and off, as did Commissioner Gordon." Batman said, "Which means that under masks three and four should be Nick and Ivan Petroff." Batman pulled those masks, revealing he was right.

"What I do not know is who is under mask number 5." Batman said.

He leaned towards the fifth masked attacker and pulled the mask off. Batman, Reverend Justice and Nightwing looked on in shock, as that fifth person was a young brown-haired woman.

"You?" Batman said, "We thought you were dead!"

"Well, well, if it isn’t the trailer park trash bimbo who put me in a coma!" Reverend Justice said.

"You both know her?" Nightwing asked, bemused.

"Chantale Paradis, illegitimate daughter of local mob boss Réjean Gamache, of the Rev’s old hunting grounds." Batman said, "I could have sworn Superman and I had found your dead body."

"That’s Lady Eden for you," She said, in her broken English, "and while the Master has ordered me respect your secret identities, I expect to be addressed with equal respect." She said, putting on an air of false dignity.

"Which brings us to the next question: why aren’t you dead? I definitely saw your dead body in the Himalayas, so did Superman." Batman said.

Lady Eden smiled smugly, "The Master has infinite resources. One of the servant girls from the nearby village received a free plastic surgery to look just like me. Another one of his contingency plans…she covered our escape, though Hiro had to silence her, she was about to go into hysterics." She said.

Batman, Reverend Justice and Nightwing winced. "That poor misguided soul," Batman said, "Her fate was sealed the very moment we foiled Rà’s plans. Just consider yourself lucky you were not the one getting your neck broken. I’ve known Rà’s a lot longer than you, believe me, he could have had you killed without as much as a second thought."

Lady Eden just stared back at them defiantly.

"So once more you are doing his dirty work," Batman said. "I can bet Peter the Great’s treasures could fetch a pretty penny on the black market. Rà’s has many acquaintances in the surviving Russian Aristocracy who would sell their own children to recover those contents."

Lady Eden cast him a dirty look. "Henri warned me of your keen sense of deduction," she said. "He hired these men to pull the heist and replenish his coffers. Artificial Lazarus mud doesn’t come cheap."

Batman took a deep breath. "These men are going to prison. I could send you there as well, to give Rà’s the message we won’t tolerate his schemes …"

"Uh oh, I feel another 5 minutes coming!" Reverend Justice said to Nightwing, who chuckled.

Batman cast them an annoyed look, but smiled. "But the preacher’s right: I’d rather have you go to him in person and tell him he’ll have to rebuild his fortune elsewhere. He’s a resourceful man, he’ll figure it out. I’m calling the cops in five minutes; am-scray." He said, removing the Bat-cuffs.

Reverend Justice stepped up and hugged her, to everyone’s surprise. "Just so you know I hold no grudges, in the end, the Ultra-G made me stronger." He said.

She gave him a puzzled look. "Uh…you’re welcome?" She said, and took the service exit on the roof.

"You bugged her, didn’t you?" Nightwing asked, with a smirk on his face. Reverend Justice grinned.

"Nice thought RJ, if we could we could trace her back to Rà’s al Ghul and apprehend them both, sending Rà’s to prison for the first time ever … but I have a hunch that bug won’t stay on her for very long." Batman said.

They called the police to book the perpetrators and take the helicopter away. They reconvened near the Chariot. Reverend Justice activated his onboard computer.

"That’s odd, it looks as if she hasn’t moved from that street corner!" he said. They walked to said street corner and saw no one.

"What did I tell you: she removed the bug!" Batman said.

"Right there!" Nightwing said. They found the body suit Lady Eden was wearing stuffed in a garbage can. "She walked away in her bra and panties!" He said.

"Her roots as a stripper just keep re-emerging!" Reverend Justice said, grinning.

"I’m sure one of Rà’s cronies picked her up before she could draw too much attention to herself." Batman said. "Let’s go home gentlemen; our loved ones should be back soon."

Nightwing and Reverend Justice nodded in agreement.

While they had not been gone much longer than three hours and while Wonder Woman had said the away team would return in about 10 hours, the remaining seven hours seemed very short at that very moment.

They walked to their vehicles.

"Do you guys think you’ll be able to sleep? I know they’re near, but I feel so hyper…" Nightwing said.

"Same here brother, I’m not one to believe in sleeping pills but I wish I did…this’ll sound corny, but the only way I was able to fall asleep last night was burying my face in Shayera’s pillow." Reverend Justice said.

"It’s so weird you should say that, I ended up dozing off on Kory’s side of the bed last night, I found it oddly comforting!" Nightwing said.

"The smell of her perfume, deodorant and shampoo, in the pillows and covers …" Reverend Justice said, smiling.

Nightwing smiled, nodding.

"The sense of smell has been known to have a profound effect on the subconscious mind," Batman said, "the fact that you found sleeping on your loved one’s side of the bed comforting comes as no surprise at all!"

"You too, huh?" Nightwing said.

Batman replied with a shrug.

The Batmobile and Blackbird 1 returned to the Bat-Cave while the Chariot reverted to its holographic cover of Joey Lucas’ car, allowing him to drive back to his apartment. The wait for their loved ones would be over in the morning.

Javelin IV finally docked to the Javelin Bay of Watchtower II. Exhausted, Martian Manhunter, Superman, Wonder Woman, Hawkgirl and Starfire disembarked, having completed their mission: Doomsday devices disarmed, plasma warheads confiscated and destroyed at a safe distance.

They still had a few things to do before reuniting with their loved ones: first, a conference with the other founding members of the Justice League and with the Guardians of the Universe, to debrief everyone of the success of the mission.

"At least I’ll be reunited with Bruce before the others are reunited to their better halves, as he’ll be part of that conference," Wonder Woman thought with a dreamy smile on her face.

Second, have a hot meal. The Javelin rations had become boring; they all looked forward to fresh food in the Mess Hall, reunited with their loved ones: Batman, Lois, Reverend Justice and Nightwing.

Martian Manhunter would likely skip dinner and excuse himself to go mourn his human companion, it was that time of the year.

"I don’t know about the rest of you," Wonder Woman said, "but after dinner all I want is a long soak with Bruce in his Jacuzzi, and then have a long snooze in his arms."

"I hear you Diana," Superman said, "after dinner, I think I’ll take Lois to the Bahamas and disappear with her for a few days."

"Me, I want my shower ritual with Joey and just curl up in bed with him …well, that and a nice backrub before we go to sleep!" Hawkgirl said with a smile.

"Me, I wish for a do-over of the quiet evening Dick and I did not get," Starfire said, "if your Mess Hall serves Chinese food, it will be perfect start, but I wish to curl up on the sofa with him, and watch the movies we did not get to watch!"

"As far as I go, you will forgive me if I skip dinner with you," Martian Manhunter said; "I have some mourning to do."

They entered the Conference Room. Batman, Flash and Green Lantern were there already, waiting for them. Unable to help himself; Batman got up from his chair and walked to Wonder Woman who met him halfway.

They hugged, Batman whispering in Wonder Woman’s ear: "I was so worried…" She smiled and kissed him.

"All right you two," Superman said, a smirk on his face, "We’re all anxious to be reunited with our loved ones, how about we get this meeting going?"

Batman and Wonder Woman snickered, and they all sat down. Green Lantern activated the giant monitor screen of the Conference Room and dialed in the Guardians of the Universe’ coordinates.

"This will be interesting." Batman thought, clenching his teeth, still quite resentful of the Guardians.

Martian Manhunter sensed his thoughts, and could only silently agree. The Guardians of the Universe had had plenty of opportunities to intervene and defuse the conflict before it escalated.

Instead, the Guardians chose complacency, quoting non-interference. They would not even risk their precious Green Lantern Corps under the pretence of impartiality. While the Guardians of the Universe were powerful allies, they could also be extremely manipulative.

Green Lantern also had serious objections regarding the way the Guardians of the Universe had handled the entire conflict, but could not voice them, as it would put him in a precarious position.

The screen lit up. Ganthet, probably the most sympathetic member of the Guardians was acting as their spokes person.

"Of course they would have him do all the talking; he’s probably the only one who has shown any concern towards our team." Batman thought, unable to repress a shrug.

"My friends, I am happy you have all returned safe and sound, on behalf of the Guardians of the Universe, allow me to convey our relief that no one was hurt." Ganthet said.

"I know he means it, but those condescending, arrogant, hypocrites sitting with him…" Batman thought. Martian Manhunter looked at him, their gaze met briefly. In that brief moment, Batman understood he and Martian Manhunter agreed.

"On behalf of the extended Justice League away team, as Starfire is not a Justice Leaguer and still graciously agreed to assist us; we can say mission accomplished; the doomsday devices have been disarmed and the plasma warheads have been destroyed at a safe distance." Superman said.

Before Ganthet could reply, Batman interjected, "Which begs the question: what makes you so sure the opposing factions will go to you for mediation rather than build new doomsday devices?" He asked, evenly. All eyes turned to him, but he only asked aloud what everyone was wondering.

Ganthet smiled, to everyone’s surprise. "We have run every possible scenario; mediation is the only likely conclusion. As we speak, the current faction leaders have been ousted and the populations have voiced their anxiety towards the prospect of all out war." He said.

"Had the Green Lantern Corps been detected, the opposing factions would have screamed interference and this would have become a three-way conflict. War would have become inevitable. Your covert operation initially had many people pointing fingers every other way but yours or ours. Ultimately, they do not wish to have to go through that arms race again." Ganthet said. "The Guardians of the Universe express their deep-felt thanks. Be well my friends." The link terminated.

"Got to love the way they dominate the conversation," Superman said, shaking his head. He sighed. Then he smiled. "Well my friends, time to call our loved ones and reconvene in the Mess Hall for dinner!"

Everyone in the Conference Room smiled. Wonder Woman put her arms around Batman, nearly disappearing under his cape. She kissed him, long and passionately, pressing her body against his. "We weren’t gone that long, but I missed that!" She said.

Reverend Justice, Nightwing and Lois were summoned to the Watchtower Lounge. Nightwing walked up to Reverend Justice.

"It seems like we’re all having a big family dinner!" Nightwing said, smiling, "you’ll have to be our guide bro, I haven’t a clue on how to get to the Mess Hall, and I don’t think Lois does either."

"Nope, I haven’t been up here very often, you’ll have to be our guide Rev!" Lois said.

"Right this way my friends!" Reverend Justice said.

They walked down the hallway and made a left. They entered the Mess Hall and smiled. The tables were rearranged, with tablecloths and candles. Superman, Starfire and Hawkgirl smiled and stood up from their table.

They walked up to them; Superman hugging Lois, Starfire hugging Nightwing and Hawkgirl hugging Reverend Justice.

"You had me worried Smallville!" Lois said, looking into Superman’s eyes, unable to help herself. She knew how much Clark hated it when she called him that, but somehow let it slip. Superman did not seem to mind.

He chuckled, and kissed her. "I’m just glad to be back Lois; those under cover missions really bite." He said.

As Starfire hugged Nightwing, she whispered in his ear "My Robin! How I wish you could have joined us on this mission!"

They kissed. "That communications silence was driving me insane, I’m so happy you’re back!" Nightwing whispered back.

Hawkgirl kissed Reverend Justice passionately. As he gasped for air, she said, "How’s your back Joey? How did the physiotherapy go? Did you stay out of trouble? Your hair’s getting kind of bushy and sticking out from under your mask, you need a trim preacher!"

Reverend Justice snickered, and replied, "Feeling fine thanks to the physio, stayed out of trouble thanks to Batman and I’ll get a trim after dinner mon ange!" She smiled, kissing him again.

"My friends, please sit down, let us share some dinner!" Batman said, sitting next to Wonder Woman. Everyone sat down.

"We have had some dishes transported from some of our favorite restaurants in San Francisco, Gotham City, Metropolis and New York." Batman said, "Chinese, Japanese, French and Italian dishes, vegetarian and non vegetarian alike. Enjoy my friends!"

They ate; the chitchat of small talk filling the room. What was impossible to miss, even to the Mess Hall staff, was the happy relieved faces.

Lois looked around as she ate, with an expression of marvel on her face.

"Penny for your thoughts Lois?" Superman asked.

She grinned. "It just dawns on me this would be quite a headline: ‘Justice League team’s home coming after a successful off-world mission’ and that such a story could jeopardize many secret identities and relationships…why did I have to fall in love with you?" She said, with a teasing smile.

"It was my boyish charm perhaps?" Superman asked, with a smirk on his face.

Lois laughed and kissed him. Her eyes strayed to Batman and Wonder Woman’s table where she caught a glimpse of Wonder Woman seductively feeding a piece of vegetarian Sushi to Batman.

"You see?" Wonder Woman told Batman, smiling, "Vegetarian can be tasty too!"

Batman chewed and swallowed, his lips pressed in a tight smile. "It can…and I respect your empathy towards animals, but you must forgive my omnivorous nature!" He said, taking a bite of Tempura Prawns.

Wonder Woman smiled sensuously, "I’m not giving up on you yet tough guy!" She said, and kissed him. Her eyes strayed to Reverend Justice and Hawkgirl’s table, where she caught a glimpse of Hawkgirl fussing over Reverend Justice as they ate.

"Oh look at you; you got tomato sauce all over your crest!" She said, smirking, wiping the sauce off the cross on his chest with a napkin.

"My own fault, eating with those gloves on wasn’t the smartest thing to do!" He replied, chuckling, taking his gloves off.

She smiled, put the napkin down and took his hat off, playfully ruffling his hair. "Look at that mane! I’m cutting your hair when we get home!" She said.

He gave her an amused smile. She puckered him up with her left hand and kissed him, long and passionately.

"You taste like spaghetti sauce!" She said, smiling.

"And you like Oyster sauce, Angel eyes!" He replied, with a grin.

They kissed again. As they kissed, her eyes strayed to Nightwing and Starfire’s table, where she caught a glimpse of Starfire kissing Nightwing, plates of Chicken in Black Bean sauce and Orange Beef temporarily ignored.

Once more, Starfire’s kisses had left Nightwing gasping for air, and he did not seem to mind. She playfully took a forkful of her Orange Beef and fed it to him. He chewed, chuckling at the same time.

He offered her a forkful of his plate of Chicken in Black bean sauce, which she sensuously took in her mouth. They ate silently; staring into each other’s eyes, smiling at each other, then did it again.

Superman got everyone’s attention, "Well folks, Lois and I are done with dinner, and thanks Bruce: your choices in catering are excellent!" Batman nodded in acknowledgement.

"But it’s time for wifey and me to disappear in the Caribbean for the next few days …I’m sure you all understand!" Superman finished, grinning.

"Say no more Clark, you two go right ahead and relax; have some fun for a change!" Batman said. Superman and Lois said their farewells and took their leave.

Wonder Woman smiled at him. "You know what I would like?" She asked Batman, "A long soak in the Jacuzzi with you tough guy, and then a long snooze in your arms."

Batman looked in her eyes, and lost himself in the beautiful, loving expression on her face. "Your wish is my command!" He replied to her.

"My friends, if you will excuse us …" Batman said to the attention of Hawkgirl, Reverend Justice, Nightwing and Starfire, his eyes never leaving Wonder Woman’s.

"That is quite all right Batman;" Starfire said, with Nightwing’s arm wrapped around her, "we are done with dinner as well, and I am eager for a do-over of the quiet night of watching movies on discs of digital video with my Robin!"

Nightwing felt the urge to correct her, "DVD Star, it’s called DVD!" but decided not to. She was back and that as all that mattered. Getting her sayings mixed up was part of her charm; he would miss it if she stopped!

"We’re done with dinner too," Hawkgirl said, "and there’s a certain ritual I’m eager to have…" she looked at Reverend Justice and said in a low voice, "shower, massage…then I’ll cut your hair…and then I just want to curl up in bed with you. I want to forget about the outside world until we’re both on Active Duty tomorrow, together as a team!"

"My love, that sounds like heaven to me!" He said, putting an arm around her waist.

They all left the Mess Hall with angelic smiles on their faces.

.