Flowering Deaths [Starfire, Nightwing, Poison Ivy]

[Deleted]

Barbara had thought it a good idea to get away from things, things being the guys that they had to deal with as well as the stress of their everyday lives, or at least those of their alter egos. Though Barbara didn't have a steady boyfriend, heck she didn't have any boyfriend, that didn't mean she didn't have her fair share of man-issues, seeing as how she had Batman, Robin, the Commissioner, her father, and countless others she had to deal with, and that was why she had suggested a girl's day out.

Wandering through yet another young women's clothing store to see what either of them could not live without, Barbara continued to express her dismay at the prices in swim wear. It had always amazed her that so little could cost so much but in this case, seventy-five dollars for the tiniest of string bikinis seemed exorbitant. But if she thought the prices were outrageous, Kory seemed to think otherwise, or at least it appeared that she did.

She wasn't quite sure of her current choice, but she had put it on from a dare, a dare that Barbara would never be caught dead in what little was covering her body at the moment, and the moment she stepped from the dressing room to stand in front of the mirror, Barbara had wished she had not taken that dare. It was by no means a string bikini, but a strand of dental floss that had somehow been wrapped around her, and it took all Barbara could muster to keep from moving too fast, or she'd expose something she could ill afford to show.

"Oh my dear, that suits you. I mean that is the suit for you, really it is."

"This isn't a suit. It's a, well it's a..., well it isn't a suit. If I wear this thing I'll be shot, or worse."


Turning almost too quickly for her own good, Barbara glanced toward the front of the store before she made a mad dash for the privacy of her dressing room. In minutes the barely there thing they had called a bikini was gone, replaced by the cut-off jeans shorts she had chosen to wear, a choice that went well with the white, short sleeved blouse and beige sandals that completed her ensemble. Kory of course had out shown her in the attire department, but then it wasn't supposed to be a race or even a competition, though were it to have been, Barbara had an idea she would have lost.

"Kory, I'll be across the street at that coffee shop. But take your time ok? Oh, and you won the bet, lunch is on me."

Barbara settled for a one-piece of a more neutral color. The price was somewhat out of her reach but she had to buy something and she didn't think Kory would wish to shop in the places she normally did. asking for a table on the sidewalk, Barbara sat down and then ordered herself a coffee, before she took out the bill and reviewed it once more.

Lunch would be on her for her little nit of stupidity, but then it had been worth it. They had come here to have fun, and fun was exactly what Barbara was going to allow herself, for she knew that in no time at all, she'd be back on the streets facing off against who knew what, risking her life to keep Gotham just that much safer, so that other girls could do exactly what they were doing now - spending money.

[Kory Anders - Starfire]

The day was fresh and glowing. Defiantly enough of the sun out, that it seemed quite a waste to simply stay inside. Not that, Kory didn't enjoy the certain two men roughing it out in the gym. It was a guy thing.. So naturally it was right to do a more girly thing. With the recently hashed up… Well, Kory hoped it was closer to being hashed up between, Barbara and herself. She really seemed quite the nice girl. With some friendly texts and even a phone call here. The day out to meet up was made. What was the humanly thing expected of girls? So, naturally suggested was shopping. What clothes were to Kory, weren't exactly for humans. They didn't make who ever wear them, but simply looking around. It least give them something, whilst getting to know each other…. Maybe even friends. One could hope.

As soon, found themselves in the changing rooms… Kory really didn't need a new bikini, she had enough from her photoshoots. There were perks in being a model, but there was little harm in trying them on. Even though they offered little protection, Dick had more than given her reason… Besides, Barbara seemed, well Kory assumed excited to try something new… Dressing up, certainly could be fun and Kory could naturally allow herself to simply that. Enjoy the moment. More had to do with the company of course. She was really nice. Kory didn't really think of money like humans. Mostly because up until she was on Earth, she had little contact with such a thing. Being a slave and a princess. She had a stable enough on Earth as a model, but she was in no ways flashy about wealth. Kory simply enjoyed her life. Valued joy, much higher. She did have money enough to spend on a bikini, if Barbara was short on cash, but Kory didn't want to step on toes. Though the offer was most certainly there. After some moments. Barbara had presented the bikini she was wearing. Kory expressed it was suiting, but also that it wasn't the one she had in mind. One of the assistants much of miss took her, when she had pointed. After some sort time in the dressing room and Barbara had left to cross the street. Kory purchased some natural in colour underwear and possibly a gift for a friend… Not that they matched, perfectly, but they were always good thing to have for work… Slipped back into her casual wear. A purple dress. With cut off sleeves. Notched at the waist with a black in tone belt. It fell just above her knees. Slipped on purple like sandals. A cute little clutch. Her red locks, tousling down and around her. Of course… Sunglasses in place. Not that Kory was one for the mysterious qualities. With little shopping bag in hand. Kory left the shop. Crossed the street and came to the coffee shop. Spotted Barbara among the seating out in front. Perfect choice. To enjoy the beautiful sun… Maybe, this would have been a good day to have brought a picnic.. Oooh, she really did like playing with those playful discs. After sneaking in the shop and ordered an ice tea… Before taking a seat...

"Gratitudes. That was quite enjoyable, Barbara… Did you end up finding something special? Is there any places you'd like to check out? I believe there is sometimes, people dancing in the park… With often quite nice music… That might be fun if you're interested… After lunch of course…"

Kory kindly thanked Barbara. For spending the day and hopefully having a relaxing day of fun. Smiling sweetly, sipping lightly on the ice tea. Kory was happy to pay for her half. She didn't need a lot of food, she probably still a little taken from the candy from the shop earlier. Of course to get a little something for Force… Maybe even Victor and Roy. Mints and little kiss lips. It was funny for her. Curiously asking if and what Barbara got from the shop. Kory was happy to see if, Barbara wanted. Kory had seen quite a few that just went flawlessly with her skin tone or brought the colour out in Barbara's eyes. She was quite the stunning girl and naturally so. Though of course, this was fun for all. As Kory inquired, if there was any places Barbara wanted to go. Kory liked Barbara, naturally she would assume she'd like the places she went. Even not, she was content with the friendly company. Of course, if Barbara was a little more low in options or simply wanted maybe something new. As Kory couldn't know if Barbara spent much time in the parks in this city. Kory liked them especially in the summer, when the sun was out and winter could be fun. She was known to go ice skating every once and awhile. With minimal cheating, of course. Though there could often times, people playing musical instruments. Drama performances, although it was questionable if they were acts at times and dances of course. Seen a couple on times Roy had performed there…

[Deleted]

"That was an experience. I mean I've seen bikinis that were barely there before, but with that last one I tried on the maker would have had to start with at least some material to even call it a swimsuit. One false move, heh, one move - one breath, and it would reveal way too much and get me arrested."

Her eyes twinkling with pure mischief at the thought of being arrested for indecent exposure, Barbara smiled at Kory to let the idea settle in, though in the back of her mind she also thought about what her father might do. A girl's school was not out of the question where it came to being a proper young woman, though after being Batgirl in the darker areas of Gotham City in the dead of night, Barbara wasn't quite sure just how much of a proper girl there was left at times, and that could be called a joke.

"But to answer your question, I picked up a one-piece suit. It's a French-cut but it does hide most of the body. Did I mention that I was conservative?"

Taking a sip of the coffee, Barbara looked around and then flagged down one of the waiters to ask for a menu. Looking it over for a minute, she then ordered two slices of Banana-Walnut loaf bread as an appetizer for the two of them; the waiter then nodding his head before he left to go place the order. That don't, Barbara went back to the topic at hand, their schedule for the day, took a drink of the coffee, then attacked the question out right.

"I'm open for anything, Kory, anything at all. we could go to the park, take in a swim in the freshwater lake there, go see a movie, or take care of that lunch. Don't worry about the expense, it's on me and I do have the funds. Oh, and there's a brand new exhibit of very rare flowering plants at the Gotham Botanical, and from what I read in the paper, some of those flowers are on the endangered species list. Ah, here's the order I made. You ever had a slice of Banana-Walnut bread? Add butter and its very good."

Winking, Barbara put the knife to the butter and spread a good amount on the bread, only to watch it melt into the surface. One bite later and Barbara almost let a moan of pleasure slip past her lips, though she was able to fight it at the last moment. She was hungry but as their schedule was not really set, lunch could be right next door time wise or several hours away, and the bread would make it last long enough to get her stomach through in the meantime.

[Kory Anders - Starfire]

There was a noted twinkle in Barbara's eyes. Was that a mischievous look? Kory thought amusingly, thinking it was quite endearing as she listened to what Barbara said in regards to the tiny tiny bikini. Malfunction and possibly getting arrested. Sounded like someone that didn't visit the wild side often, Kory softly giggled. Not of course laughing at Barbara, but finding she could be quite funny, least Kory was assuming she was and was that kind of refreshing humour. Which Dick had mentioned when, she had heard of her, especially many years back in the early days of Titans. Knowing it was a soft spot, but Kory was certainly hoping for the friendship route. Dick didn't need anything to do with it, least Kory could admire they had good tastes and Kory was sure there be a man just as special… Suggesting Roy, might be too soon. Although he might beg to differ. Sometimes, girls needed to be girls without men.

"X'hal! It defiantly wouldn't offer protection. If one is going to suggest nudity, they just might as well go for it… Whilst of course staying within the boundaries… Sounds like you might want to do something wild? Maybe if you're going to a beach… Maybe surfing? I know, believe me I didn't use my powers…"

Kory responded, joining in on the lightness and amusing tone of the conversation. Least, it felt as such. Adding to the lack of protection. She hadn't seen much point in a bikini in the first place, of course learning the laws of covering bodies, where she was from, Clothes were just clothes. Of course, Kory had come to see clothes in a sort of fashion kind of way, from being a model. Wearing out of fun, was maybe way to put it, but when it came down to it, clothes just didn't define who she was. Maybe if anything just an expression of her openness with in, but she liked to think she could be quite classy. Although, in regarding the said bikini, which was clearly suggesting to look at the body in such away, hide vey little. As Kory joked, although realistically, one might have been better of going nude in the first place. As Kory giggled of course, that bathing suit had been one step from it, not that Kory would be one to just openly judge someone, but she could find the humour and of course the boundaries. The law. On more pressing subject as Kory hoped she wasn't stepping on toes, as she playfully alluded on Barbara doing something wild. She was young and as the humans said, you only live once. With bikinis in toe, there must be a beach. Well if there was, Kory suggested surfing. There were many things in this beautiful world, to enjoy. That just happened to spring to mind. As Kory playfully put her hands up, assuring that she resisted her powers. Not that she had been overly successful with staying on the board, it still was fun trying.

"Oh, I think I saw that one… It will look lovely and might I say very classy. I like your style, it is very Barbara and I really like you. We all have tastes. Comforts. Like they say. Some like Chocolate. Some like Strawberry… Or maybe its vanilla. Personally I like all three. Who am I kidding? I like Ice Cream in general!"

Interestedly Kory listened as Barbara mentioned the bathing suit she did pick out. Sounded like one Kory had seen, there were a lot of them, but simply from what Barbara described, Kory was sure it was a good choice. Her green eyes light up and offered Barbara a friendly smile. Ensuring her, she had little too worry about. Kory couldn't see any flaw in her body, but at the end of the day everyone had a body. It was they're own. The freedom of choice, one probably hoped in reason of the law. Though what Kory liked, Barbara didn't need too and conservative or not. Kory liked Barbara. Her style. Kory thought less about changing someone and more accepting them. Least Kory could hope, Barbara felt like she was accepted. As Kory sweetly expressed with the possibly ice cream analogy… Probably not exact as pondered a little, though sure she was close. Grinning in amusement, liking all quite the same. Depending on the day, before laughing. She quite liked ice cream, not that she got to have it often with her job, but she dabbled here and there. Giving the look of hard to resist, ice cream. Drinking some ice tea…

"Splendid, absolutely splendid… OOh, movie would be nice… I don't know last lake I saw, looked kind of fishy to me… Creepy little critters… I suppose, a pool or a beach… You know I can always take us on a… Detour! You can wear your bathing suits… Do you know Kara? Just need another girl, we could play volleyball… Maybe not today, but another? …. X'hal, I love flowers…. I'd love to go to the Botanical garden with you… No, I can't say that I have… Oh, wow! It is good… You know I have a friend that is a chef, do you like cooking? I think we're going to make rainbow animal cakes next lesson. For a special princess, of course!"

Wow, this was turning out to be a lovely conversation. Least Kory felt she was getting comfortable and only hoped the same for Barbara. Movies could be fun. She could join her on a couch or at cinemas. She had a couple movie times with Roy, even legally blonde… Kory wasn't so convinced on the lake being completely clear, but she wasn't closed off. As she joked about the last lake she saw. A little shiver at the nibbles she got at her feet… Suggesting there could also be a pool or beach, of course. Before curious if Barbara knew Kara. Kory had some fun girl times with her, even on a beach. Suggested maybe girl group time, with volleyball. Maybe not now, it probably be a little soon, but always possibly for a later date…. Before expressed delightedly that she was very open to seeing some beautiful flowers. What a great idea, Kory thought… She really needed to read the paper, more often. Taking Barbara's advice and taking some of the bread, with butter. Literally like sort delicious sweetness in her mouth. Licking her fingers a little, not trying to be overly a clutches with it. Finishing her mouthful. Before casually bringing up she knew a chef, not that Kory was alluding to anything when it led to her asking if Barbara liked cooking. Kory was slowly trying to get better, it was fun certainly trying. Especially the lessons. Mentioning the next lesson with rainbow animals, filled with candy. Before of course mentioning the special princess, she was potentially making them for. If the cakes turned out well, with Ethan's help, they should be perfect. Kory smiled sweetly. She wasn't sure, but she would have assumed Barbara knew of Force. Even though Kory probably had called her as recently as a day or so ago. Always liked to check up on her. Quite the sweet young lady.

[Deleted]

Sipping the coffee quietly, Barbara listened to Kory go on about their shopping experience. Listening to Kory was like visiting one of California's trendier city's, or perhaps Venice Beach of Los Angeles fame. It was amazing how the girl could rattle on, her attention slipping from one topic to the next without so much as a preamble, but then Barbara was certain she sounded much like the epitome of the boring science teacher in movie "Ferris Bueller's Day Off".

"Ok, let me see if I got this. A movie might be nice, provided there's one we both wouldn't mind seeing. The lake is out because it smelled fishy, and that would rule out the beach as the ocean is even worse than a lake, so that limits us to a pool. a detour would be fine I suppose, and if this Kara is who I think it is, then yes, I know her."

With each thing she replied too, Barbara touched one of her fingers. It was old-school to say the least in a day of calculators and cell phones, but to her, this method was faster. Besides, Barbara often felt that if one depended on electronics too much of the time, then their brain would rot from disuse, and to her, the brain was the most powerful tool. Signaling a passing waiter for a second cup of coffee, Barbara told him what she was drinking and then handed him the empty mug, before she went back to the topic at hand, though she had to remind herself - by the quiet finger count - of where exactly she had left off.

"OK, sorry, now where was I? Oh yes, the Botanical Gardens. The show I am speaking of started three days ago, but many of the rare species of flowering plants hadn't blossomed yet. They said three or four days, so today might be the best chance we get, then maybe volley ball, sans powers of course. Anyway, one the second cup of Joe arrives and I pay for them, it's off to lunch. what would you say to the Cheesecake Factory?"

[Kory Anders - Starfire]

Was Kory rambling on a little? Sure… Maybe a little over excited. She was tamaranean after all. She lived to seek joy. Positiveness, if she could would always find it. Though she could also be even with all her confidence. Be a little nervous… This was Barbara. Batgirl. Just a real class act kind of woman. Strong. Smart. Beautiful… Did she forget, super nice? As Kory happily sipped on her iced tea with someone Kory was deeming most defiantly a friend. On quite a beautiful day. Perfect day indeed. So far, it was. To be free again…. Why not make the most of it? Life… Kory beamed up as Barbara spoke… Blushing politely. Maybe Kory had rambled on too much.

"I really am open to all suggestions, the company is of course the best part… But a pool would be nice. Quite lovely… I'll call Kara later and let her know."

Kory said simply… Honestly. She hadn't had the intention of giving mix messages. She liked being true. As Kory smiled and looked to Barbara sincerely. She hadn't meant fish, exactly. Maybe bad phrasing and it was questionable what lake. Kory loved this world, even if it wasn't her own. Tahiti, it was close. Sandy beautiful beaches. Sun was closer to earth as it had been for Tamaran. It was really quite nice. Really added a boost to her energy level.… But, regardless a pool could be lovely. Sweetly smiled. Noting Barbara using her fingers. It wasn't completely foreign to her. Despite lacking the human brain. Tamaranean brain was a little different. Was it advanced in ways, maybe lacking in others. Maybe… One key difference was in storing memory… It was hard for a human to simply forget a bad memory. For Kory she could choose in a way have select amnesia, in regarding bad memories. Leaving the feelings sometimes behind. Depending on the memory, it was easier said than done. But it went along with how Tamaraneans don't live in the past. Kory may respect, appreciate it, but it was in the moment she lived… That was what a tamaranean was suppose to do. There were times she felt more human… Simply like she belonged somewhere. Fit in. A home!… At last! kory could smile softly about it. Feel that rejuvenate in her heart. The happy tear moment…

"Certainly count me in, sounds wonderful… Rare flowers, I really am curious now!… Volleyball in the afternoon, that sounds like a great idea…. Thank-you so much, its really sweet of you… Cheesecake would be perfect… I've never been before!"

Beaming with joyful tone, defiantly feeling this flower show to quite something. As Barbara mentioned a little more about rare flowers and newly ready to blossom. That was quite the garden in Kory's mind. of course had to be better in person… Simply commenting as Kory thought in relation to the rare species… Outer space was probably a stretch, that hardly made them rare. Depended on the plant… Followed by volleyball, in the afternoon, wasn't a bad time. Just before sunset. Kory be home just in time to play night hawk. Thanked Barbara of course in the paying. Kory would happily pay, she could, but Kory was sure could pay it back later on another day. Spring some carnival fun on Barbara… Or nails! But, Kory also thanked Barbara, simply for the company. It was certainly making her days. She needed these getting out days… Especially with cool and fun people. Not of course turning down cheesecake. It was after all cheesecake. Kory smiled. A small slice. Moderation… Truthfully admitting she'd not been to this cheesecake factory before. She'd been to many places, but there would still be many places she hadn't been.

[Deleted]

The restaurant was just as she had expected it to be – extremely busy – but the wait was well worth it, partly due to who her guest was. Orange-skinned and beautiful beyond human understanding, Kory stood above even the most beautiful woman the human race had to offer, and Barbara had figured out that was one reason Dick had moved on from their relationship, that and the constant arguments about her safety and such. However that might have transpired, Barbara was still happy to have had that close kind of bond with Grayson, though she had made sure not to get close to anyone else since then. The breakup had been painful to say the least, and though Barbara had held ugly thoughts toward her replacement at first, enough time had passed to allow that water to flow over the damn as the old saying went.

In the end, Kory was not the three-headed monster Barbara had expected her to be and they had built a friendship of their own. Time away doing their respective crime-fighting careers had been the only thing keeping them apart, other than the times Kory would spend with Dick or the other Titans, but then, she had her own pressing matters with the rest of the Bat-Family. The buzzer in her hand pulsating, Barbara looked back to Kory and then handed the reservation gizmo to the hostess, before they were led to the table. It was the smallest one the place had, yet it looked as if it could fit half a team of soccer kids, but that just meant the two of them could relax and be alone, at least once the waitress took their drink orders.

“I’ll have the ice-tea, unsweetened, and a glass of water to go with that. Kory?”

Waiting for Kory to place the drink order, Barbara buried her face in the impressive menu for a minute, before she looked up again. If this was Kory’s first time, then she’d be almost bombarded with potential selections for food, and as her host, Barbara would help guide her through the veritable land-mines of eating pleasures. For herself, Barbara had already decided on the open-faced prime rib sandwich, and the accompanying string fries and the vegetable medley. Dessert would be later, if she even had room in her stomach for it, but with volleyball coming up later on, plus the museum visit, Barbara had the feeling she would need the added boost in energy a dessert would provide.

“Everything on the menu is excellent, but if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask."

[Kory Anders - Starfire]

If Kory was indeed the three headed monster. She'd hope she was a very kind one. It was very possible she had met such a monster, X'hal knew there many species in the universe. Why was it that monster, one would just assume, they were unkind and cruel! If anything such a description could be looming above Komand'rs head… As time had moved. Pushed on. Kory walked into the restaurant with Barbara. Such a warm and welcoming young lady. Friend, to put it more kindly. With simply easiness now, past messes behind. Nothing but the moment and the many precious ones to follow. After all they were both strong. Independent women. Heroes in they're own right. If they couldn't pass water over the bridges… Who could?

This was something new… Exciting. This friendship and now this Cheese Factory. Somehow, she had imagines a work factory. With many cheesecakes being turned out by the second… Or maybe she was thinking the chocolate factory. She'd really have to keep this place in mind. For future visits. As Kory happily followed Barbara and the waitress to the selected table. Happily taking a seat opposite Barbara and promptly placing a napkin on her lap, It seemed a busy place, but not too crowded that it was not relaxing. They could unwind in some friendly girl talk and delicious food. Bonus.

"Oh… I'd like a Peach smoothie please… Thank-you!"

For a moment Kory pondered the choice, with the kind suggestion on a card special on the table, Kory hardly could pass it up. Kindly asking for the delightful sounding smoothie, least looked it on the photograph. With a polite gratitude and smile as the waitress took the order…

"X'hal… This place is quite… Amazing… We could make this regular, similar to Monk's cafe! oh, thank-you! Hmmm, let me see…"

Kory remarked quite wonderfully at the restaurant in general as her tamaranean eyes, looked around in awe and quite simply joy as one would expect, before making eye contact with her friend. Before hands came to the menu, even more floored… Offered a suggestion… A open suggestion, as it felt such a unique. Warm. Relaxing and fun place to eat. Chat. Maybe regular, however they could with any business in they're days. Referencing in comparison to the cafe in Seinfeld. Or really seen in a few shows, it seemed custom to have favourite spots to join up in a group… Possibility. They could always add other friends. More like girlfriends. Kara, certainly… Happily thanking for Barbara's help if needed, before her eyes scrolled through the lengthy list… Hmmm. Bringing an intrigued finger at different points on the page, she could understand menus well enough these days, unless in a language she neither spoke nor read… Though merely from a glance, there were a lot of good options… Yet, she had a big breakfast with the boys that morning, so she wasn't feeling for a lot of food. Barbara would probably have to carry her to the Flower show and with Kory could be heavy with her strength if she didn't carry the weight. Noticing some options with pears… Kory suddenly felt the graving for them…

"Well, I think I'll have the roasted pear and blue cheese flatbread with a side order of the pear and endive salad… Please! Some reason, I feel like pears… Oh and after, maybe the Banana Cream cheesecake. Sounds delectable."

Kory enlightened in her choices, even though there were many to choose from, she went with her gut feeling… Literally… Assuming the waitress hadn't left or soon returned to take that order. Odd. Peach. Pear. Banana. She was really thinking in the fruit section, though they were very good fruits, plus it was summer and they really did sound wonderful. Though eyes had wandered in maybe taking a cheesecake to go home later… Maybe, that might go down a good treat with the boys.

[Deleted]

Barbara listened quietly to what Kory was going to try, and while the meal was healthy to say the least, Barbara didn't quite feel up to eating a defenseless strawberry, or a naked banana. Her own options more toward a heavy meal, Barbara looked at the burger selections before settling on a Barbeque-sauced, half-pound hamburger with a side order of waffle French fries. Dessert would come later if she had any room left in her stomach, or maybe even if she didn't as the Cheese Cake Factory was not a place to eat lightly if at all.

"Sounds nice and healthy, Kory, but for my tastes, I'm going to get the half pound Barbeque-sauced, hamburger with a side order of waffle French fries and all the trimmings. If I can stuff myself with dessert after that, which I doubt, then I'll get a rich chocolate tart. This way I can eat a lite dinner and be ready for the night."

Her eyes showing the mischief of the Batgirl, Barbara smiled deviously for a few moments before she saw the waitress heading to their table with the drinks. By the time she arrived, Barbara was back to her normal serious self, though she had a feeling Kory could see right through that facade and straight to the bat she wore on her costume as if it had been branded on her at birth.

The order given, Barbara handed the waitress her menu and then relaxed, while she thought about a case she had been working on, one that had been giving her trouble of late, but that was partly due to her inability to get into her father's office to see some of the files. Lost in thought, Barbara didn't know she had been starring off into space until a kid screamed in the next booth, something about wanting another scoop of ice cream, but by then Barbara was back to the world of the living and taking a long drink of the tea that had been delivered.

"Sorry about that."

[Kory Anders - Starfire]

Hmmm, yes! Kory was sure in her order as her eyes looked one more time at the menu and with Barbara's kind assurance. Sounded perfect. No, it sounded delicious. Although, Barbara's defiantly sounded mighty delectable. Though seemed more than she probably could bare right now, having her appetite back. In time it had come back. She wasn't one to deny treats from time to time. She after all nearly devoured Gotham in chocolate. Though it was more to simply to give something back. To see children smile. Sprinkling a little joy, especially the children most in need… With the children in mind… Her green eyes looked around the place in a little more wonder… It could be big enough, if there was going to be another charity party… Could she make it annually? Or maybe a park? This certainly had some nice treats. As Kory could smile joyfully at the kids that were in the restaurant, but she didn't need to decide now… Something to defiantly contemplate.

"Sounds mighty delicious… Intriguing, Stone ordered something similar not a few days ago in the group fest… It of course was devoured in a matter of seconds… Oh, how is the hitting the town at night going? Though with such duties in toe, one has to always be ready! I know, I'm on speed-dial and I'm not talking West!"

Mighty defiantly, delicious certainly. As Kory delighted in Barbara's choice in foods. The fries waffled up, sounded interesting, enlighten on the fact there had probably been waffles in her morning. Surprisingly not to burnt, maybe a little crisp on the edges. Kory thought playfully with a smile, before Barbara's choice reminded her of the recent gathering… Group fest was putting it lightly, but well merely lunch time, it was hard not to think of food and titans together. They all had they're quirks, which just made it all that more of a fest. Especially when it came to the boys in the group, in going the food was gone in a minimal moment almost in a flash. Kory laughed softly, with a sigh. Ah, memories… Before certainly picking up the eye movement Barbara had going on, from the across the table. With the very essence of batgirl or even Batman, but like she was around him long enough to know such catchphrases and well, there was a time when Dick had, but he quite out grown his Robin… Catchphrases, mostly. No doubt he was still cute. Legs covered or not… Kory expressed a kind smile, kindly asking how the nights were. Certainly didn't need to devour our details, they defended to be more guarded, but Kory was always happy to lend ears… Commenting that it wasn't exactly night. Least it wasn't for her that she merely needed to be ready. Such duty didn't really think in place or time. Especially for a titan. Jesting a little regarding being on speed dial. Her hand straightened her belt on her dress mildly, with the well disguised beeper, in case she is needed. Call upon! Which had generally been more in the day than nights, as Kory took aid in helping Bludhaven, being belong side Nightwing when needed and partially of course, because it was homely. Once a titan. Always very much a titan.

"No apologises needed… You seem to have a lot weighing on your mind… Anything you wish to relinquish? I'm all ears."

With a sincere shake of her fiery head, there was nothing to apologise for. A mere moment of silence, it was hardly a crime nor a mood killer. Surprising it was probably possible to kill Kory's mood, but potentially a little trickier. With drinks finally on the table and the food orders taken. Orange fingers gently swirled in her peach smoothie. making the raspberry swirl, play wonderingly in the glass. A gentle sip, before Kory offered Barbara any chance she wanted to share. Not that Kory wanted to step in places, she knew that humans could be protective, but Kory was here. She could be objective and hopefully a good listen. Least she always tried. Her friends were very much important to her, possibly even strangers. She'd probably take in every stray that came her way, if she had to. She cared greatly. Though for a brief moment, Kory took out her phone and keyed in a few buttons. To possibly send a message to Kara, if she indeed free, she could join the friendly girl gathering… This seriously could be annual in itself. Not to sound completely teenage club about it. If Kory even knew what that truly was.

[Deleted]

"Nothing I can't handle, but there are times I wish crime would take a holiday."

The meal having arrived, Barbara wasted little time in diving in on the fries. The Vinaigrette dressing to be used as a dip was as good as she had remembered it, though she also used ketchup from time to time. The hamburger was huge and had to be cut in half before she could even wrap her hands around the bun to take a bite, and even then much of the sandwich never made it to her mouth. If she was embarrassed by the failed attempt, then Barbara didn't show it, as she calmly placed the burger back on the plate, cut it into smaller sections, and then grabbed a fork.


"Sometimes this is a better way to eat something this huge. It may not look right, but I will at least be assured to get most, if not all of it into me."

The second option more to her liking, Barbara stabbed the first mini-bite and pulled the fork up to her mouth. It was as tasteful as ever, and this time she even managed to get all of it where it was supposed to go. The second bite was as good as the first, though Barbara had to remind herself to chew slowly so she wouldn't come across as a starting child fresh off the street or some uncouth person or be am embarrassment to Kory.

"Well, mine is good, what about yours?"

[Kory Anders - Starfire]

There certainly was little one could doubt in someone as Batgirl. As Kory kindly smiled and was more than sure, the feisty woman across her could defiantly bring her form of justice. Though the offer for an ear would always be open. Kory smiled knowingly at Barbara's desire for crime to take a holiday, though cut short momentarily as the smell of warm engulfing food came to the table. With lit up eyes to follow, as the plates were laid down. Looked even tastier. Hands straightened at the plate with the flatbread and side of salad. If not already cut, Kory without need for caution cut the flatbread in smaller and easier portions to be picked up.

"X'hal! I know what you mean... We defiantly try, occasionally to take a night off for ourselves and help clear the mind!"

Openly expressed as naturally Kory would, understanding in regards to crime taking a vacation. At this point one had to realise tragedy would always exist, but as Kory sweetly took a small bite of the flatbread. Settling her tooth buds, brushing her slightly powdery hands. Suggesting mildly with her hands in gentle gestures, that they tried to take a night off. Not frequently, but enough. Meaning mostly Bludhaven, it was quite similar for the Titans. They were heroes and people. A call of course wasn't out of reach, which occasionally ruined any plans for a night off. Defiantly helpful when found, Kory kindly smiled. Picking up a piece of flatbread for more intended bites. Topped with Pear and blue cheese roasted along with pecans, Arugula and caramelised onions. It really was quite packed with flavour… It hadn't really caught her eye any disarray with Barbara's way of eating until it had been pointed it out, though still nothing about it caused any alarm for Kory...

"Seems perfectly fine, Barbara! I can assure you I have come across many different eating habits… This defiantly isn't the strangest!"

Kindly assuring Barbara, if she did indeed felt embarrassed, Kory hoped she felt a little more ease. Feeling uncomfortable was defiantly not something Kory wished to make another feel, especially not someone as nice and kind as Barbara. She was simply as wonderful if not more so than Dick had described. Though as Kory commented in regards to eating habits, both range of food options and especially manners. Kory could easily attest to seeing quite a variation, both on earth and worlds above… Kory certainly was feeling more and more human, it was odd, but true that Kory had seemingly spent more years on Earth, than Tamaran. But, there was certainly the notion Kory needed and very much wanted to fit into this world. Much to the help of the Titans and most of all Dick Grayson. It was just a flip if Barbara felt the need to fit in with Kory or impress her. Kory just liked people, to really put it simple.

"Gratitudes, it is most wonderful! Please, you're welcome to try some, if you would like?"

Motioned her hands together delightfully with sincere enjoyment. Even the salad, which she had put on the side was delicious. Grilled chicken, mixed lettuce, pear, blue cheese, candied pecan and tomato with some low-cal vinaigrette. It oddly accompanied the bread nicely. Not too much pear or cheese. As Kory motioned happily to share some of the flatbread or salad or both, if Barbara was keen to try. It was a small token for picking such a wonderful place for lunch. Which with simple enough ingredients in both dishes. Kory was certain she could remember this and possibly make it herself at some point. That certainly was never a bad thing… It certainly didn't take forever until Kory was least half way through until completion of her meal. It wasn't too filling, so there was room for that slice of cheesecake, she had been eyeing. Well, there were a few, but banana cream. It was just hard to turn down…

"Please! Excuse me for a moment… I'll be back in a jiffy!"

Before politely excusing herself. To look through the cakes behind the glass. To select one she could possibly take home. They really didn't want to make it easy. After some thought the tuxedo looked quite good and the name was cute. With payment and in cute box. Kory motioned back to the seating with Barbara.

[Deleted]

"Times off are very important when we have to deal with our chosen vocations, Kory.
Yours so much more than mine, since librarians don't lead that exciting of a life."

Making sure her comments were kept to the civilian side of her life in case anyone was listening in on their conversation, Barbara smiled deviously for a moment and then stabbed another piece of her sandwich. She was certain there were people around them that had taken an interest in their presence, not necessarily because of herself but more due to Kory's presence. Kory was famous the world around and it was not uncommon for eyes to be focused on her, even more so when she was in that costume she wore, though Barbara knew her chosen attire was far more than just a mere costume.

Then again, though Barbara considered her life to be nowhere close to that of Kory's, she was sure there would be at least one set of eyes on her, mostly to try and figure out just who she was or if not that, then how Barbara Gordon - librarian at Gotham University and daughter of the Police Commissioner - might know Kory Anders. A quick glance around them showed Barbara there were indeed eyes on the both of them, mostly guarded glances, though a couple of younger guys off in a corner table seemed to be leering at Kory, as if to undress her with their eyes, something that never changed no matter who the beautiful woman was, or cute-looking guy if the roles were reversed.

"Oh heck, we need to hurry. The exhibit opens in an hour and it's on the other side of town. Maybe I could get us a cycle for a ride over there, that would be fun, and I promise - no wrecks, and I'll drive slow enough so as not to ruin that sweet morsel you've just bought."

[Kara Zor-El - Supergirl]

Supergirl was in a rush. She fly over the following cities, passing by her in let than a second. Looking over Gotham, she was x-raying the building as she went by. Then she spotted the two people she had been looking for.

Landing in a back alley, she spun around quickly. Creating a tornado almost as she change into street cloths. Kal still wanted to see her try for the more traditional form of hiding her identity.

Another Kent among the humans. She did her best for now, with dressing in a simple jean skirt and a white tank top. She wore a red flannel shirt as a jacket. It was a bit big on her so it would fall almost to the line of the mini skirt she was wearing. She wore a cute pair of tan cowboy boots she had found in one of the closets at the Kent farmhouse once.

And to help hide her identity, she started to wear a pair of wire rim glasses. Something within the new fashion. And she wore her hair in a loose braid that fell over her left shoulder. She looked like Supergirl maybe...but at first no one would take her for that. She just looked like a lost country girl in the big city.

She carried a small black backpack with her that had her super suit as well as her wallet.

Kara came running around the corner of the small cafe just in time to catch Kory and Barbara Gordon. Kara knew who Batgirl was. At least from the peak through the mask long ago.

"Hey! Sorry I'm late. It was nice of you to invite me Kory," Kara smiled.

[Kory Anders - Starfire]

A life for Kory, had many elements and all worth living to her fullest. She couldn't agree more full heartedly at the importance of feeling whole. A hero. A model. They weren't all who she was or what she was. Everyone had so much to give, it was silly to her to just let that pass her by. She was built with passion and every emotion of her being presently on her sleeves. As the tamaranean princess sat across her newly discovered buddy. With all the radiance and charm of quite a lovely young girl. Yet, to really discover the world by the sounds, but somehow as Kory smiled hopeful that Barbara would see to most of it. If she was driven to do so… Kory frowned momentarily at the comment of a librarian be the cause of lacking excitement in ones life.

"Modelling isn't going to change the world, but I do certainly enjoy it… If you are lacking excitement, then you just need to find it. Make it… I would have imagined a librarian would be exciting, you get to be surrounded by so many wonderful stories and not to mention the people you'd meet. "

Kory rambled on in her natural bubbly and positive self. From her modelling. Which was not rocket science and Kory knew what went into a spaceship, but as Kory smiled. It was the fact it was fun to do. Enjoyable. The people she met. The locations were generally always beautiful and Kory was always up to seeing the world. It truly was so beautiful. She had really become to enjoy living under the yellow sun. Would be wonderful conditions if they were indeed going to play volleyball or have a dip in a pool. Which probably result in sunbathing.

The lingering eyes at the table. At Kory, it was nothing new. If she stopped to really take it all in, then she'd probably become paranoid. Now, she wasn't famous around the world, least not Kory Anders, well known in New York and mildly enough in Gotham. She had been away from Earth for sometime, so the hype most likely would have died down, but whether they knew her as Kory, eyes would linger even if they didn't. She was a tamaranean, even if she was wearing glasses to hide her eyes, they were an attractive race, there was little that could hide that, no matter what she was wearing or not wearing. Kory was well aware of what she looked like. She was pretty, but it wasn't all that she was. Otherwise she'd be pretty boring…. The leering, especially current, Kory just paid little attention. Ignored it. Besides she had wonderful food before her and an even more wonderful person to talk to… There was merely one man that truly made her knees weak…. Picking at the last remaining portions on her plate, the passion for Dick Grayson wasn't going anywhere. No matter what they were together… But, X'hal did she love him. And love him greatly… A beautiful warm glow to her cheeks came. With the cheesecake having been purchased. Could be a very nice… Late night snack! Placing it lightly on the table across from Barbara… Oh, right! Kory Smiled brightly as Barbara mentioned the time… Flower time. To be more at point. As Kory got back to her feet. Put her bag neatly over her shoulder and snug the cheesecake box. Aiming for the exit… Listening at point at what Barbara said regards to getting to the place.

"Oh, yes, let's go… Don't want to miss seeing the flowers… I wonder if any would be purchasable? Though I don't think I'm running out just yet. Even when I feel the need, the flowers seem to replace themselves… A cycle? They rent out bikes? My car is just a few spaces around the corner… I'm happy to drive us there or if your feeling spontaneous, we can go by air… X'hal! Oh no, Kara you came perfectly on time… Greetings! We were just heading off to check out some flowers. Just deciding on transportation. How have you been? I sure hope in need of some fun..!"

Kory chattered away harmlessly to Barbara and no doubt comfortably. As they soon would exit from the Cheesecake Factory, with very much the topic of the flower show. Which from her words, she was very excited, she couldn't really recall ever attending such a festive, but sure had seen many plants. Flowers in her days. Both on Earth and away. They seemed generally less harmful on Earth, with beautiful aromas. As Kory questioned taking any home or maybe stop on the way home to pick some or a florist, but then of course the current flowers in her place hadn't completely faded now that she recalled. Laughing lightly in regards to them replacing themselves, Dick liked on occasion to give her surprises. Flowers on occasion were a very nice touch. Though there were a few pots outside her balcony Kory grew herbs and flowers. It was a good way to help with patience, it had been partially way to help retrain and to hold back her power in battle… Kory questioned the cycle curiously, she hadn't known they could be rented out. They certainly sounded like fun, but as Kory offered, she did have a car if that could help, plus a place to keep her cake safe from total destruct, well, apart from the sun. She'd need to tuck it under the chair, she imagined. Even though the more alluding question was Kory legal? Well, enough. If it was personal choice, Kory would pick flight. It was more freeing, but it hardly mattered than the company. Before from around the corner came Kara. Even though Kory had expected after inviting her, it was still a pleasant surprise and Kory was joyed Kara could make it. Perfectly on point! With a huge grin and with little hesitation, without destroying the cake in the box in her hand. Kory hugged Kara, greeting her kindly. Of course the kryptonian was probably strong enough to push her off if need be. Before informing Kara a little in regards of transportation. Kory had barely communicated on the phone, which Kory would always prefer face to face more and asked how she was. Before of course giving Kara a joyful yet playful look. Not that it was hint they were going to do bad bad things… Just fun things and it had to be known Kory was usually about the fun. In this case girl time!