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Post by Deleted on Nov 13, 2011 2:56:30 GMT -5
The moment Dick entered into the main gym on the upper level (as opposed to the underground gym located in the batcave which also housed a training and sparring arena) he would find a small circuit Bruce had set up to help make sure Dick’s muscles didn’t atrophy while healing. The circuit was intense but still manageable for someone in Dick’s condition—however concentration would be heavily required, especially when utilizing the parallel bars Bruce had put into place. Of course Bruce had altered the circuit some to help cater to Dick’s amazing agility given his talented gymnastic background—such a skill was signature of Dick and if anything Bruce didn’t want for Dick to suffer in that area due to his injuries. And yet when Dick provided his answer as well as his notorious trademark of skirting about the issue when he didn’t want to discuss something, Bruce’s gaze narrowed darkly, missing Dick’s own eyes. “I called the truce, not her. She has and can provide vital information over what’s going on in Gotham so for now, differences mildly put aside, we’re… working together, somewhat--which apparently you two were already doing before the attack.” He had led Dick over to the weights—deciding to start at that end of the circuit to give the boy a brief chance to get his body ready for the rest of the workout session.
“Two reps of forty.” Bruce instructed of the first weight lifting machine’s session for Dick. “How did you come across her? And furthermore, where did the notion of teaming up come from? Most importantly--why?”
Bruce had his suspicions over the answers to his questions—but he needed to hear things clarified from Dick first.
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Post by selinakyle on Nov 13, 2011 20:01:28 GMT -5
Several hours later, just as he has asked, Selina was en route, Liv driving her to the Wayne Manor. Along the way she had picked up a few things, one of them including a bottle of wine. Not that it would impress Dick all that much, but more for Bruce if he were home. At least some of her manners had still stuck with her after the artful head-banging she'd done.
Along with the wine was some recently removed from the oven baked goods. No man she had encountered yet in life would refuse that sort of gift. Well, save for Jack, but hell, he had rather tossed them across his kiddie pool of half-solidified jello, hoping they'd skip like stones.
They hadn't.
Soon enough the car stopped outside the rather grandiose house, Selina popping open her door and staking a crutch into the driveway like she was claiming the ground. Gathering the bag she started to make her way to the door, wriggling a few fingers at her assistant. She'd call Liv later to pick her up. But for now she was going to speak with Dick about what had happened on his end, and vice versa. It had been far too long since either of them had checked in with the other. And if Bruce wanted to be nosy, she also had a few notes jotted in a notebook, and a mock email from Dick; asking her for her advice in school, and for an interview.
Once at the front door, Selina would remember that she had said she would text Dick, and did so then, sending an 'en route.' to his phone, before reaching a finger up to depress the doorbell. Ooops.
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Dick Grayson - Nightwing
Registered On: Nov 13, 2010 18:14:54 GMT -5 ~
Posts: 1,416
~ Relationship Status: Dating
~ Partner: Kory Anders
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Post by Dick Grayson - Nightwing on Nov 13, 2011 21:02:34 GMT -5
He continued into the gym, glancing around at the set up. He saw some of the things set out and wonder just how far Bruce was going to push him in his condition. Not, that Dick wanted to got easy completely, but the word 'easy workout' seemed to be foreign to Bruce.
Though Dick had grown into that difficult of training and got used to it. Still, he was in quite a good bit of pain. He tried his best to hide it. He wasn't sure just how good of a job he was going against Bruce though. It was one thing to hide it from that pest Jason and to keep an act up for Barbara so she wouldn't worry so much. But against Bruce? That was like trying to hide something from a hawk. Bruce never missed anything and Bruce knew Dick well enough to notice the smallest things.
Dick wasn't all that surprised at the look he was getting from Bruce when he corrected him on his accusation of it being Catwoman's idea. "Ok, sorry I asked," Dick said sarcastically and some what meaningfully over even putting it out there.
Dick was silent for a moment as he crutched his way over to the machine Bruce was nearest to. The crutches hitting a few uneven points as he made it across some bare floor at points and the workout mats. Once at the message he put the crutches down and got onto the angled bench and leaned back against it. Once settled, he lifted his arms slowly to grab a hold of the equipment and set out to work on the workout. His body aching with the new pressure being applied again his arms.
As he started in on the work, Bruce started in on more questions. Simple, yet difficult to answer. Dick was a little frustrated. He couldn't just flat out tell him. He just couldn't. It wasn't something he wanted to go around telling people. Besides, Catwoman....Selina has been rather pleasant to chat with and had not posed a threat to him unlike that Dr. Isley whom had poisoned him a while back and used it against him to protect her if he valued his life. Thank goodness that was over with. Selina wasn't exactly the run of the mill crook either. She had her causes no matter what the Bat-family's view were on that. And Bruce was right that Catwoman could prove handy. Hence the reason for not wanting to cross the line of pushing her away.
At Bruce's questions, Dick fought back against the weights in annoyance over the questions. This was getting ridiculous. It seemed like there where no secrets that could be kept within the Bat-family without everyone needing to know within it. Dick hated not being able to tell them. He didn't want to risk anything. He had already screwed up so many time since he had gotten away from all this.
The guilt of protecting himself, but withholding important information was getting at him. His mind had been driven to the edge not to long ago against the Joker. And it seemed he wasn't getting a break. Everything was getting tied in with the team up, the attack, and the FBI. Dick's mind did not want to hear it right now. It didn't want to take it. His mind jumping back to all the questions the Joker had been asking to try and crack him. The flashback of the memory of that scene playing small bits and pieces of the memory. There wasn't much to tie it to Bruce's questions. But Dick had blocked it out for over a week, not saying a work to anyone about what he had gone through. Though blocking it out was only building it to break at some points.
At the last bit, Dick yelled out both in pain and anger over all this. Letting go of the handle to the equipment as it dropped and clattered back into place. "Bruce! Would you give it a rest, please?! Just this one time, no questions? Just not at this time, not right now," Dick pleaded at that moment as he leaned forward with his elbows on his knees and his head in his hands a bit looking down and ruffling his hair with both hands trying to collect himself at the moment. "Please?" He gasped in a pain at the sudden change in his breathing pattern hitting his lungs and causing trouble for one of the broken ribs. His bend over body irritating his condition more.
He hadn't want to break down to this point. He didn't want this to be playing out. But he needed a moment to get the chance to regain himself. This might even by him some time to not have to answer at the moment. But he hadn't meant for it to go down this way. He hadn't wanted to hit a breaking point of any kind back to the horrible memories of that night. It was too late to take it back. One might be puzzled at his sudden action. Sure it was one thing for Dick to try and put and end to a conversation, but to ask for it to be left alone was a bit different.
Dick tried to collect himself a bit breathing deeper to try and settle himself and shake the flashbacks out of his mind. He took a moment. He looked toward Bruce. "There was no actually team up at any time. We haven't really worked together. There was more of a 'truce' as you would say between the two of us over something, It's difficult to explain exactly how it came about," Dick replied. Shutting down at this point and not wanting to go any further. He wasn't going to tell him. If Catwoman wanted to find out and same for Bruce, they could keep him out of it. He didn't want to have the blame sit squarely on his shoulders at this time, there was already so much he was baring. And he didn't want to see Selina having to take a fall for all this either.
Dick rested his elbows on his knees and his head in his hands as he tried to calm down. He didn't need to get work up over this. This was not the questioning of the Joker. There was no threat there. Just the threat of Bruce's anger.
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Toward the end of the work out, Dick had set his iphone within on of his pocket on his gym shorts, though placing it off to the side when performing any difficult stunts at the time. On the last bit, he felt his phone vibrate in his pocket. A slight hum sound coming from the vibration of the phone.
Dick took the chance knowing to take a look at it at the least to see if it was Selina. He pulled the phone out of his pocket and took a look. He saw that it was Selina's number. She must be at the front door now.
Dick took the chance of looking at his phone when he thought Bruce was not looking. Dick quickly typed in a quick text of:
'Will be down shortly. Alfred will probably let you in,' it read.
He rather make sure she had had a safe journey here, knowing of her injuries. He felt bad about her having to go through quite as well. He wasn't sure what all been his fault to her injuries. There wasn't much more Dick could do at the moment.
"That was Selina, she must be here now," Dick spoke up informing Bruce of who Alfred had gone off to answer the door.
((ooc: Hope you don't mind the split time for my post. Just wanted to help keep it going in a way for the work out for the time being.))
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Post by Deleted on Nov 16, 2011 19:42:26 GMT -5
The snap Dick had shot at him over his barrage of questions caught him off guard slightly. It was in rare form that Dick would ever chose to bite back, and yet it actually worked in Dick’s favor as Bruce took a moment to see the situation from an outsider’s perspective. Dick was still recovering from a hardcore beat down given by the Joker, things in Gotham were tense, and Bruce’s own relentless training and hounding of questions couldn’t be helping the boy’s situation as much as he had intended for it to.
Perhaps Bruce needed to re-evaluate—his true driving force of anger and relentlessness was geared towards the Joker and what the Joker had done to his long-time partner, prior ward, and though he rarely if ever admitted it, one of his most trusted and only friends. He let the boy work out, Bruce now gearing his own unease, tension, and anger into his workout. After a while Dick finally came around, answering the questions Bruce had asked—as Bruce projected the boy would once he had cooled down. Taking the information in a simple nod was given to Dick’s words.
“A truce has been reached, but a fragile one at best. I just… I know Catwoman can be, Dick. She’s as much a team player as I am.”
If that was a joke, it was a grim one at best.
“Her motives, despite her actions, are always in it for herself. She is hardly to be trusted at all times. Don’t let her trick you into thinking she will have your back when the going gets rough… Just don’t forget that, huh?”
No sooner had those words left his mouth when Dick’s cell phone went off...
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Meanwhile, Bruce Wayne’s oldest family friend and servant, the Wayne butler, Sir Alfred Pennyworth, had been on the ball and opened the door to Selina Kyle.
“Ah, Miss Kyle, lovely to see you! You’re looking as well as a cast and crutch wielding woman of your stature can be. I trust your travel went well on the way over?”
He moved to take her coat should she allow him, acting just as professionally and yet friendly as the butler was always known for.
“Master Bruce and Master Dick are currently indisposed in the upper gym working on Master Dick’s physical therapy but shall be down shortly. Perhaps Master Bruce could be persuaded to look into assisting you physically—therapeutically, of course.”
A small grin was given to the socialite, just because Alfred was elderly and spoke with a perfect English accent; it didn’t mean he wasn’t without his very intact sense of humor.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Dick’s admission of Selina’s arrival seemed to now alter Bruce’s mood slightly as Bruce left the workout bench and headed to an intercom along the side wall. He pushed the button, ringing directly to Alfred.
“Not to worry Master Bruce, I’m on my way now. Your timing is impeccable.” Came Alfred’s kindly, elderly English accented voice over the intercom.
“Alright, Alfred—let her know we’ll be down shortly.”
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Post by selinakyle on Nov 17, 2011 5:32:24 GMT -5
As Alfred opened the door, Selina grinned, and offered the basket to him. While the older Englishman spoke, she could feel her cheeks pink. They just chatted at benefits and such. It wasn't that obvious. And hell, she liked Batman better. Stumbling a bit before she spoke, she had to clear her head first. But hell. Vermillion hadn't even skewered them, so how could Alfred be teasing her so!
As she gently relinquished her jacket, she snickered at him. “Alfred, it's been too long. And feel free to dig through the sundries I brought. A few bottles of wine, some pastry, a few other odds and ends.” She was never without a gift on a housecall, especially one like this. Before he could protest, the intercom spoke, and Selina raised a brow.
“They're in the gym? The one upstairs?” She'd been to enough functions, and paid enough attention that she knew the general vicinity of where the two men were coming from. Settling against her crutches for a moment, she was near curious why Bruce and Dick would be in the gym. Dick was in decent condition post their accident; it was her who had taken most of the crash. Watching Alfred for moment or two, she smirked again, thinking on Alfred's words. “Can he do a good massage?” She teased, winking with the next words. “Physical, but, as you, said, therapeutic, Mr. Pennyworth....” She murmured at him, the proverbial ball back in his court.
“Maybe after I speak with Dick on the information he needed for his class, Bruce and I can chat a bit. Considering this FBI bullshit, there really hasn't been a decent get-together in a while.” And with that, she was back on her crutches, her casts apparent as she started to hobble up towards the grand staircase, and to the gym. Hell, she'd meet Bruce there; he didn't have to come all the way down to the kitchen. And truth be told, she was curious about how Dick, and Bruce were going to react. Dick she hadn't seen since that night, and, well, other than the hospital, Bruce hadn't seen her as well.
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Dick Grayson - Nightwing
Registered On: Nov 13, 2010 18:14:54 GMT -5 ~
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~ Partner: Kory Anders
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Post by Dick Grayson - Nightwing on Nov 17, 2011 15:38:34 GMT -5
"I won't forget Bruce," Dick replied equally serious over the matter. Through the years he and learned. He wasn't about to make the same mistake twice. He'd keep on his guard, even though she knew who he was. And he knew who she was.
Dick was relieved none the less to not be pressed on the issue. There had been some much that had gone wrong since his time as Nightwing. The run in with Isley and the poisoning. The murder of a gang member in front of him by Jane Doe and she got away. The new discover of the identity of Catwoman and her knowing his as well. All during this time which he had kept from everyone. Sacrificing himself to spare his friends their worries over some matter. Withholding information from the very people that wanted to help him. And now this...
The torment of the Joker had pushed it over the edge. Keeping him from saying anything. Everything locked away in his mind. His subconscious mind wanting to let it out. Only the thrashing in his sleep and the sudden snaps of reactions toward things he could normally deal with where the only signs of the damage. That and the large gashes across his broken and beaten body.
"That's a switch," Dick commented. "Usually Alfred's one step ahead. Then again he don't get notifications from the person at the door." Dick was some what joking, but his mood was not as light as it had once been. Sure even when Barbara had been there earlier in the week, there was a noticeable differences to him. Sure he could joke around or take a teasing, but within there was something just unsettling about it all. Not about the people. But how he withheld from them, kept them at bay. And because of that he almost got himself killed in the most horrific way possible...at the hands of the Joker.
There was just more of an act going on. It wasn't all false. This was Dick, but there was just something deeper and unsettling behind it all. A weight on his mind, that as before, he felt he needed to handle on his own. The burden was his to bare and it had weighted on his mind, scarring it, causing all sorts of pain and suffering to his mind. Keeping it hidden away and keeping it there was only doing those around him good as he acted like nothing had happened. And in return it was causing more damage to himself than good.
He had slipped the iphone back into his pocket and grabbed his crutches. He didn't need Bruce to tell him to get a move on. Dick stood and started to crutch his way over to the changing room that was build into the gym, complete with shower and sauna. He make it over toward the towel rack. His arms already tired from some of the workouts.
He grabbed for one of the towel and then turned and threw it with his left arm, in Bruce's direction. The towel landed short of where Bruce was, Dick winced a bit in pain over one of his ribs causing it. He set the crutches against the wall and leaned slightly against the rack itself as he carefully removed his own shirt and threw it in the laundry basket sitting walking distance away from him.
With the shirt removed, it revealing the one large gash with stitches on his left side to the lower part of his rib cage and the other gash on the right side. The remaining cut across his chest that had been light was still visible, but healing well. The bruises across the front of his body, the coloration showing a change for the better for his healing body. And the many past scars from missions gone wrong or just wounds from a fight were still slightly visible.
Dick laid the towel on his left shoulder and grabbed his crutches. He turned away from Bruce and headed toward toward the changing room to fit in a quick shower. The workout had taken more out of him than a usual one of this level would have before the accident.
With the towel slung over his shoulder some of the marks on his back were hidden. But the large lashes from a whip could be seen across his back in all directions. And the scars of past fights remaining like the front. This many injuries were just a glimpse into what he had gone through up against the Joker.
Dick came to ignore the injuries the best he could, not wanting to recall the event. He took care of re-bandaging the injuries the best he could. He often removed the ones around his chest to allow more movement for the workout. Though it probably didn't meet with Bruce and Alfred's approval.
Turning back to look toward Bruce. "I'm going to shower quick and I'll be right out. And...," Dick stopped and his eyes lost contact with his. Dick hated asking for help. He could get ready and everything on his own. But he had yet mastered wrapping his own bandage around his chest for support of his ribs. "Do you mind helping me rewrap the ace wrap I had on earlier for my ribs?" He really headed feeling like he was helpless in any way. Things had gotten better though as the time passed.
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Post by Deleted on Nov 18, 2011 20:32:59 GMT -5
A genuine smirk of a grin passed over Bruce’s lips at Dick’s little throw of a joke about Alfred’s prowess as the ever knowing butler of Wayne Manor. Was Bruce’s mood actually lightening up, or was he gearing himself to take on the playboy billionaire persona he had to don before the socialites of Gotham? Or was it due to the prospect of Selina Kyle being in his vast, undeniably wealthy homestead? It was more than likely a combination of all those truths, not to mention the endorphins that kicked in whenever he was able to focus on a particularly good work out. Once they finished and Dick toweled off, Bruce following not too far behind, he gave the smallest of nods to the young man.
“Not bad… For being on bed rest.” That was as close as Bruce got to giving a valid compliment. And when Dick asked for help with re-bandaging his ribs properly, a sense of need twined with pride secretly filled him—it was almost like the “good old days” all over again. Still it didn’t slip his mind over the boy’s quick-to-snap demeanor, nor did the darkness behind his normally vibrant and playful gaze lift after a rather productive workout. Dick Grayson might have been slowly but surely healing physically, but the mental injuries he was sure to have sustained from the Joker didn’t appear to be going anywhere, anytime soon.
A few possible methods of therapy went through Bruce’s mind—all practices that would serve to help Dick emotionally deal with the twisted torture the psychotic clown was sure to have put the boy through. The Joker, though rabid with insanity, was no fool when it came to perfecting his warped intentions—if he wanted someone to suffer long-term from mental and emotional scars, he usually succeeded in his goal with flying colors. No typical therapy would suffice in order for Dick to deal with what he had painfully endured, the young man would need something extreme and acute to handle all he had been through… And Bruce Wayne had just the sort of training for a very grueling, evasive, and intense sort of therapy. “Hey, I was thinking… I have some free time this weekend—and I know you endured more than just physical torture at the hands of the Joker. The man has a way of getting in your head,” He grit his teeth at the last statement, his tone filled with nothing but unquestionable hatred for the notorious Clown Prince of Crime.
“I picked up some techniques during my travels a while back, from a very special Tibetan monk. He taught me how to deal consciously with emotional unconscious scar tissue. How to come to terms in dealing with… well, hardcore mental torture. I can’t promise it’ll help resolve everything you went through completely, but it’s effective and would be a start in helping. Think about it, Dick. The clearer your mind is, your body is apt to heal more efficiently—not to mention you would be able to suit up faster and get back out on the streets as Nightwing. And in all honesty… I could use you out there.” He left the offer of his special method of mental therapy up to Dick and would re-visit the topic later. As for now? After he had cleaned himself up with a shower and shave, he helped Dick re-wrap his bandages and made sure the rest of his injuries were looking good—mending as they should be. A quick intercom buzz to Alfred let him know that Selina was waiting in the kitchen for both Dick and his arrival. Of course Alfred had taken to procuring all needed and wanted commodities of food and beverage for Bruce, Dick, and Selina—not to mention he had kept Selina company until the arrival of the Master of the manor, his guest alongside him. Alfred politely excused himself to contend to the upkeep of the giant manor, allowing Dick, Selina, and Bruce their privacy.
“It’s lovely to see you, Selina. I would’ve thought with your active behavior in the hospital and all the excitement with its America’s Most Wanted serial killers about, they would’ve had you under lock and key.”
A boyish grin was given to the socialite—who, even though she was with visible injury— without shadow of a doubt, still looked absolutely, stunningly, beautiful.
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Last Edit: Nov 19, 2011 2:51:19 GMT -5 by selinakyle
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Post by selinakyle on Nov 19, 2011 2:49:50 GMT -5
While she had almost started up the staircase, Alfred had lured her back, much to her dismay. But he had then plied her with one of the bottles of wine, offering her a few bites to eat, and of course, a fine crystal glass of the white wine. She already knew it was good, considering she had gifted it. But while Alfred had offered her a chair, Selina had declined, not once, but twice; instead she was now perched on the not so small island in the kitchen, her casted foot dangling, the other clad in a simple ballet flat. Truth be told it was more than a ballet flat, but hell, no one really noticed.
What it really was, was a fine, custom made climbing shoe. One she sometimes used depending on selective jobs. But considering her shit grip with her cast, (something she hadn't been able to talk her way out of, at least yet), she needed the additional help. So there she was, perched, watching Alfred and talking over vintages when Bruce came in, and Dick...hobbled.
Despite how relaxed-chic she looked, the outfit pulling that look together as she wore a pair of near-second skin black yoga pants, a thin purple tanktop, and an asymmetrical zipped up thermal top, she had a near hard time hiding her shock at Dick's injuries.
It wasn't just the motorcycle crash that had done that. And she knew it. And it pissed her off. But as Bruce smirked at her, remarking on their little hospital adventure, she could only raise her own glass to toast him and Dick, retorting herself. “Ah. They're supposed to keep the killers, and the criminals under lock and key, Bruce, not those that fight against that.” Winking at him, she continued,”And thanks to you, and Dr. Elliot, Zsasz is behind bars again. We'll leave the suits out of it, and honor our own.”
Taking a sip of her drink, she nodded to Dick. “No wonder you wanted me to come to you for the interview. I don't doubt the two of us would have made a fantastic tabloid story. Something to rival dear old dad, no?” Those large green eyes shifted to Bruce for a second, almost hoping he would react. Then again, she had to start spinning her tale sooner, rather than later. It'd be more plausible, and Dick would be able to chime in soon, too. Thankfully she had a few props in her purse to propagate the lie, so she could check in with him. Setting her glass down, Selina clasped her hands together. “So, I hear you were both in the gym before I rudely interrupted?” She missed the physical interaction. In a gym, on the rooftops, or even with her more common sparring partner. And no, she wasn't talking about Ted.
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Dick Grayson - Nightwing
Registered On: Nov 13, 2010 18:14:54 GMT -5 ~
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Post by Dick Grayson - Nightwing on Nov 20, 2011 0:30:26 GMT -5
Listening to Bruce, he had given a slight nodded over the some what compliment. It wasn't often at all to get a compliment out of Bruce of any type. But something was holding Dick back from reaction to it in away of maybe joking around about noticing the rare event. He just wasn't up for it though.
As he went to continue on, he heard Bruce speak up again. This was treading on a very touchy subject for Dick. Something he didn't want to discuss. "Yeah...I've noticed," Dick said flatly, and brightness from earlier that had been there was gone. But he didn't snap at Bruce for this. He let it slide. He'd listen to his words this time.
He remained silent for a while Bruce had been speaking. After the while of silence, Dick spoke up. "We'll see...might be something to try," Dick replied. He gave a slight sigh understand about trying to solve this. Though his mind still blocked out that part of the events memories. But knew that something might need to be done about it. His logical sense was kicking in enough.
Dick started to crutch away to get toward the showers to get a move on. He stopped and turned a bit to glance over at Bruce. "Though it would be nice to get off these crutches and back on the streets again. Nothing compares to a good free fall off the top of a fifty story building," Dick commented a little more lightheartedly after the subject that was some what approached.
At that, Dick continued on to go shower off and get ready to head downstairs to visit with Selina. His chest feeling tight again after having the wraps back on. He had re-wrapped his right wrist on his own. As they had headed out again, Dick wasn't sure if it was just him or if it was feeling colder than before they had started. This Fall weather was starting to make the Manor feel drafty again. Dick slid on a pair of sweatpants over top of a pair of shorts. He put on a solid red colored t-shirt. He'd warm up again as they headed downstairs.
Dick tried to keep up with Bruce the best he could as they felt to go meet Selina. As they got down into the kitchen, he saw Selina with a pair of crutches along her side. He noticed the change in personality of Bruce as well with the new situation they were in.
As he came through the door on his crutches, he gave Selina a look knowing she was surprised. He hadn't told anyone. Only close family and friend new of these injuries. Anyone else just listened to the rumors.
At her words of 'rival dear old dad', he wasn't all that pleased with the way she phrased it. But he held his tongue. Even with it being a joke, Bruce was not his dad. A lot of people that didn't follow Wayne rumors or stories as much did not seem to notice that fact of the background of the two wards of Bruce Wayne's. Though Dick wasn't about to upset Bruce over saying anything against the words she had used. Their work out had gone smoothly and there was no point in starting any thing.
"Well it's something I'd rather not have hit the tabloids," Dick commented politely. He didn't say much more than that to the first part of her statement until she spoke up again. "You weren't interrupting. You actually have great timing at the time you entered," he said. He tried to nice and at least try to be a little more pleasant that what he had been earlier in the gym.
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Post by Deleted on Nov 28, 2011 1:30:44 GMT -5
There was a silent moment of mental digestion as Bruce observed the interaction between Selina and Dick. All they had grown to be were closer friends amongst the socialite crowd as far as Bruce had things figured. He wasn’t exactly upset over the newly bonded relationship that now enfolded before his very steadfast, razor sharp glacier blue gaze. He was more so… putting the pieces together, assessing their interaction, seeing how both Selina Kyle and Dick Grayson engaged one another. After all, Dick’s behavior beyond his donned secret identity of Nightwing was crucial in this aspect of life, aka, the “social life”. Sure, he pulled things off well enough as separate identities when he was Robin and Dick Greyson his ward—but now he was Nightwing and Dick Greyson his own man. Big difference. And then a certain biting, and more than likely unbeknownst to Selina, simple but emotionally stinging remark was made on behalf of his relationship’s definition with Dick.
“Dear old dad?” Bruce practically choked on his words the moment they left his lips.
“Just to clear the record—I viewed Dick as a ward of this manor and business. Someone to take on the estate, I never wanted to, nor intended to replace the pedestal of where his true father stood. More of a mentor rather than a father—you see.” He quickly added in. Awkwardness setting in and the socialite hadn’t even been there more than five minutes! Yet her flurry of words brought up another point, quickly and thankfully changing the subject.
“Interview…?” Bruce now echoed, leaning against the kitchen island table for a moment, distancing himself between both Dick and Selina. If ever there was an “odd man out” he preferred to be it.
“So the real reason for such a generous social call is revealed, hm? Is Dick pestering your intellect to help give him a newly gained perspective on the world of business for his Economics class?”
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Post by selinakyle on Nov 29, 2011 1:24:03 GMT -5
Awkward. It seems with the slightest joke Selina has broached a rather sensitive, raw subject. Taking another sip she laughed lightly at Bruce's reaction while also crossing one ankle over her, well, cast. “I'm hard-pressed to fully believe that you're treated him fully as a ward, Bruce, when he's here looking like that, and claiming not familial response. But, to each their own.” Who was she to judge? Orphans did tend to react oddly to things, herself included. Hell, she had taken up intense thieving to fill that void of security much like those nutters did extreme couponing. Not that she had the time to watch those shows. At all. Another sip of her wine and she would look to the two men again. Economics? Seriously? That and women was probably all that ran through the playboy's head.
Rolling the stem of her glass between her fingers, she narrowed her eyes at it's craftsmanship. Good quality crystal, hmm. “And to that question, I'm sorry to say it's not economics, Bruce. Something a little closer to my own specialty. A few questions to my field, and how I'm able to appraise things and focus trending on that which is usually pinpointed for acquisitions. So...” She paused. In a way, it could be considered economics. “I guess you could call it Economics. Buy, sell, all that.”
After finishing her glass of wine, Selina slipped down from the counter with ease, using the pair of crutches to transition to standing. She wanted to see that gym before they started. If anything, Dr. Elliot's damn orders for her to refrain from 'strenuous activity were driving her up a wall.' And hell, if Dick was perusing the gym, why couldn't she?
“Would you mind showing me the gym, before we start, Bruce? Alfred was telling me you two were working in it when I arrived, but he lured me to stay with his wonderful way of making delicious things appear out of no-where before I could find it.”
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Dick Grayson - Nightwing
Registered On: Nov 13, 2010 18:14:54 GMT -5 ~
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~ Partner: Kory Anders
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Post by Dick Grayson - Nightwing on Nov 29, 2011 10:15:31 GMT -5
At Bruce's reaction to the statement, Dick was a bit uncomfortable with this subject. His gaze dropped from either of Selina and Bruce. He just kind of looked off to the side away from the two. There was no reason to interject any of his opinions here and now.
This was not something he wanted to get into. He understood Bruce's words. But in some way unknown to himself at all, it hurt a bit to not speak up and say anything toward it. Bruce was like a father in a way. Though Dick wouldn't admit that out loud, just like how Bruce wouldn't admit to having the two around and feeling like they were some what of a family. Even if it was just the Bat-family in that. It was still some kind of family. Something all three of them had lacked with the on come of tragedy in each of their lives. Just another way tying them together. Having a better understanding of what the other was going through. But each of them with their own story and own futures to create their own paths.
And even with Selina's response back to Bruce, Dick still did not give eye contact. It was too touchy of an issue to be spoken off. Feelings of any kind like that were just not something that was expressed much around there. Each learning to deal with it in their own way. It was noticeable in all of them, seeming to have their own way of dealing with this. It seemed for Bruce almost just watching and criticizing was how he got through to others. Or as some of the other heroes would say cold hearted in a way. Then again in some ways wrong.
For Dick it was more likely for him to bottle it up and then deal with it on his own. In his own way and terms. He was just about as stubborn as his mentor. Maybe even more so. But often finding his work his way of helping to blow off some steam over things.
And Jason...Well that kid took everything as a challenge. Especially authority figures. Nothing stopped that kid from challenging people. Sure he would listen mainly to Bruce and Alfred, but he had his way of working around the rules or just being plain underhanded. You couldn't trust him. The kid seemed like he had something against the world. Always fighting back and aggressive, fighting back at anything that felt like he was under attack. The kid was a loss cannon. He was unpredictable. The kid still had thief written all over him.
Dick was still unsure as too all the reasons Bruce had taken the kid in. There was something majorly off about the kid. Not that it wasn't a bad thing for Bruce to take Jason in. But it didn't feel like a good thing either. What ever the kid learned he used in a way to advance his trickery. But that was a subject all on it's own. Something Dick knew was another issue that would cause major trouble if brought up. He and Bruce may not see eye to eye on many subject, and Jason was one of them. There was always a major 'brother' hatred between Jason and himself.
As the subject was finally moving on with the process of this 'interview' they were to have, Dick was glad. And at Selina's response to Bruce's words of' him 'pestering Selina', Dick couldn't help but almost crack a hidden smirk at her response to Bruce. She just had her own way of insulting people at the same time while in a polite way even if it went unnoticed.
That was one of the interesting things about Selina. She was one to voice her opinions as well and make it clear. She didn't seem to like being watched over way so ever. That she was able to fend for herself. Of course that showing in her work as Catwoman. Even though no one else knew about that.
"I look forward to hearing Selina's approach to her work to help enhance my research," Dick replied to show an interest in the subject as if he really was going to be doing that report. He had to keep and act going with this to keep others at bay. And keeping an act up against Bruce was like a person trying to hide behind a curtain. The man seemed to invent the action of acting. But Dick was still able to pull things off against others.
And at the next action, Dick wondered what Selina's motive was. He knew she was probably restricted by the doctor's orders. But knew she wasn't following them with her still trying to be out on the streets as Catwoman. Nothing seemed to hold this woman back. She was just as stubborn as the rest of them it seemed to a level. That's probably what helped all of them succeed in the world and work of being under a mask.
Dick raised an eyebrow and looked over at Selina. As if to question if this was just her way of trying to get a workout in the gym or more just getting to know Bruce a bit. He had seen how she acted with Batman. Though she had no idea who she was dealing with when with Bruce. Something that must stay that way.
Dick was leaning all his weight on his crutches just standing there. Now he was feeling like the odd man out between them. Shooting a look at Bruce, he waited for his answer. This wasn't for Dick to have a say in. He wasn't going to stop Selina from this knew interaction. It was rather entertaining to see if she could actually shift Bruce to be uncomfortable with this different subject. Now Dick was understanding a bit of why Jason liked to put other people in awkward situations. But still Jason idea of entertainment was probably more along the lines of holding someone over the edge of a building and watching them squirm.
Dick was just hanging out and waiting on the answer. He doubted that Bruce was going to turn her down at that. It wasn't often Selina Kyle came to Wayne Manor when there wasn't a charity ball or something going on. He was trying to hide any sign of being amused at this situation. You never knew what Selina would throw at you next sometimes.
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Deleted Member
Deleted
Registered On: May 6, 2024 17:39:10 GMT -5 ~
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Last Edit: Dec 1, 2011 18:00:25 GMT -5 by Deleted
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Post by Deleted on Dec 1, 2011 17:15:43 GMT -5
Though he was still questioning the new-found friendship between Dick and Selina, it all did seem plausible enough—not to mention a tad ironic given Nightwing’s “new-found friendship” with the infamous Catwoman. Indeed, times were changing in his city of grim grittiness; the Batman however, would always be the constant symbol of vigilance as the unstoppable force he was.
Upon Selina’s sudden request to take a tour of the main gym, a smirk slid over his lips. Selina Kyle very much so lived up to her strong willed, no-nonsense business woman and socialite without shadow of a doubt, needless to say Bruce wasn’t surprised for such a random request to peruse the Wayne Manor’s recreational gym from the woman who was clearly still recovering from injuries due to her prior misfortune, before him.
“The gym? Sure, I can give you a tour. And as for Alfred, he is something of a magician for making desirable things magically appear. I mean, Dick and I are living proof of that.” A wink was given to Selina and at his lead he led the two out of the kitchen and through the massive home of beyond expensive Wayne heirloom relics, to the main upper gym.
“So as you can see… I tend to enjoy my toys.” He added upon entering the massive and incredibly well stocked gym with Selina and Dick in tow. There was equipment for any sort of workout, specialized monitors and scales and BMI counters… Bruce’s gym was its own private workout center.
“Beats the hell out of trying to get the “good” treadmill at some lame 24 Hour Fitness.”
He flashed a grin to Selina.
“Once you get those casts cut and if you feel up to it, you’re welcome to stop by and give the equipment a whirl. Just don’t overdo it—I don’t work well with “liability”. Considering your condition now—are you sure you don’t want to head to the foyer or main room? I’ve got some comfy sofas to prop up on; last place you want to be in is some gym I can imagine.”
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Post by selinakyle on Dec 2, 2011 2:14:23 GMT -5
Selina smiled at Dick, nodding to his forced enthusiasm. “Me as well. I did bring a few thumb drives for you to peruse, as well as helping your paper. I knew how it was back in the day when we were forced to do those long diatribes that needed sources other than books and the internet.” Laughing as she hobbled along with the the other incapacitated one, and Bruce, she was notably quite nimble with her crutches.
Snorting at Bruce's statement, she had clearly forgotten her prior transgression to the familiar relations between the two men. Alas, that didn't bother her as the expansive gym was now open to her view. “This...” she started, taking a few steps deeper into the room, “Is amazing. And for the record, Dr. Elliot said no strenuous activity with my injured parts. He never said I couldn't use my abled ones, Mr. Wayne.”
Standing there quietly for a bit, Selina's green eyes wandered over the various pieces of machinery. The lifting machines, the mats, the ring, the speed bags, it was all rather impressive. Then again, her own home had a simple room with her yoga mat, a treadmill, and the crowning glory was the simple bar suspended in her room. Something she claimed was to hang her couture gowns on, but really, when it wasn't a hanger, it was her warm-up bar. Still scanning the room, she finally paused, a grin lighting up her mouth as she saw it; the bars. The gymnastic equipment.
Probably something Bruce had installed for Dick, especially considering his prior lifestyle. But now..it was the one thing she wished to see. Up close. Considering she was unable to go out after curfew as herself, that had cut down on her frequent trips to one of her own favorite, non 24 hour fitness caliber.
“I agree. Tiffany's curfew has me locked down from my normal gym, so even seeing this sort of set up is a treat, Bruce. Dick, you're lucky to have this sort of set-up at your fingertips,” she almost teased, springing into motion as she started towards the uneven bars.
“And Bruce, trust me, I'll take you up on that offer once I'm done looking at these. And considering my lack of, well, physical encounters, maybe you'll be a gentleman and help me for a moment?” Turning to face the two, she was now standing beneath one of the lower bars, a smirk on her face. Dropping one her right crutch she leaned on the left, shifting her walking boot up to unlatch it. She wasn't stupid; her ankle was still wrapped quite effectively for support as she stood there, waiting for him to come to her.
“And then, we can retire to the foyer, or main room, and Dick can pick my brain, then, possibly, you and I could discuss some sort of fund raiser to cut the lackluster nightlife Gotham has had since the FBI has landed.” She chuckled lightly, “and possibly Alfred, and you could cater to poor, injured me with those desirable things.” She teased.
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Dick Grayson - Nightwing
Registered On: Nov 13, 2010 18:14:54 GMT -5 ~
Posts: 1,416
~ Relationship Status: Dating
~ Partner: Kory Anders
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Post by Dick Grayson - Nightwing on Dec 3, 2011 0:20:19 GMT -5
Dick was a bit surprised that Bruce had turned this into a chance to show off the gym. And that he hadn't noticed at first the Selina would probably be more up for doing a workout then and there. Dick figured she would. He knew what she had been up to in the last few weeks. Especially when Bruce had brought up something about Catwoman being out on the streets.
He remained silent as they made their way to the gym. There wasn't much for him to say at the time between the two who were not chatting over somethings. As they made it into the gym, he wasn't surprised at all that Selina would play that card. He knew she was probably going to take advantage of this all.
"You can say that again," Dick said a bit sarcastically. It wasn't that he was ungrateful, it was just remembering the many force practice sessions he would have to face when he had been still as Robin if he made a mistake. But Dick was greatly for all the training he had spent working on to get to where he was today. That and some of the equipment that Bruce was adding to the place was getting to be a bit much at times. But that was just him. Dick didn't have much at his own place. He had a nice set up, but not quite as out done as Bruce's personal gyms.
He watched Selina and noticed what she was moving toward. You really couldn't keep this woman down. It was either working out or being out on the streets. She never stopped. He had learned that after the motorcycle accident mainly.
A smirk came to his face as he watched her try and take on this challenging work out. Something he wished he could do at the moment, but wasn't ready to move on to that stage of training again just so soon.
"You're really up for that, even after that accident and the attack you've been through," Dick said. He crutched over toward her at first. He was just trying to play his cards right to keep Bruce off his tail. He knew more than Bruce did at this point about this woman. Which was a first time in a long while on anything.
Dick knew there was no stopping her and there was definitely nothing physically he could do. So he directed himself over to the bench not to far off from the other two. He'd get up if they changed their minds, but for now he wanted to give his arms a rest form carrying himself around on those crutches.
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