Calm Before the Storm [Open]

[Deleted]

The start of the fall season in Gotham City brought with it cool, crisp air. This was something that Alyce Windrunner McArthur wasn't quite used to yet, even though she'd been living in the city for a couple of years now. Hell, she was imprisoned in Gotham for over a year of that time. That was why she had to admit to herself that the smell of the changing leaves invading her nostrils, and the cool wind whipping past her as she ran along the rooftops was quite pleasant. Alyce loved free-running. It was exhilarating, since it made her feel almost like she was flying. Of course, her natural-born gift of telekinesis, if used inwardly, made her as light as a feather. This gave Alyce an extra edge in running, allowing her to do things that normal free-runners cannot, as well as use things, such as garbage can lids, as mid-air platforms.

This was exactly what she was doing right now; utilizing a garbage can lid as a platform to jump across a large gap between two buildings. It had been on the roof she was sprinting across, laying hapazardly next to the can that was full of foul-smelling trash. She had felt the lid's energy easily, and lifted it off the floor of the roof. With a wave of her right hand, the lid had flown in between the two buildings and hovered there, creating a platform for her to gracefully hop across to the next ediface.

Alyce wanted to get some food items, so she was on her way to the grocery store. She needed tea, eggs, milk, stuff to make dinners with, and a few other things. Luckily, she had enough money left over from the funds that her good friend from her hometown in Cherokee, North Carolina had sent to her so that she could purchase the items legally. Alyce really didn't feel like getting thrown back into Arkham right now, and stealing the stuff would most likely end up getting her caught. She would need to find a job soon, otherwise; she would have to resort to stealing to get the things required to survive. Besides, she needed to repay her friend, Shadow-walker, for the money he'd given her. Alyce would rather do that legitimately, if she can. Her whole idea is to have a legal job while still looking for her mother and fellow tribemen's killers, just like she had done before being sent to Arkham Asylum. She also wanted to start searching for her father. Whether he was dead or alive, she really didn't care. Why should she? He left before she was even born. No, Alyce just wanted to know who he is to maybe get some closure on the subject.

Jumping off the top of a five-story building, Alyce aimed for a neon sign that was jutting out about two stories down. She hit her mark lightly and expertly, grabbing the top of the sign and using her feet to steady herself before instantly jumping backwards off of it. She did a one-hundred and eighty degree turn in mid air, reaching for a lamp post's bar that was jutting out another half-story below the neon. Grabbing the bar, Alyce easily swung herself down yet again to another sign, backwards to another lamp post, down to a dumpster, and then finally, down to the ground. She didn't care if anyone saw her or not. If anyone did see her, they would most likely be amazed, or very impressed by her ability. Readjusting the bra she was wearing underneath a light blue, long-sleeved shirt because it had shifted a little during her run, she took a breath before walking the short distance down the sidewalk. The grocery store Alyce had in mind was on the right, so with a mental note to take a cab back to her new apartment after purchasing the things she needed, she pushed the door open and entered.

[Roy Harper - Arsenal]

The legendary Roy Harper took up a roughly small spot on sidewalk across the street and a little up. He was infamous, least more than famous. It was only a matter of time, ah, but that was hardly the reason he did it. With his guitar strapped over his shoulder and guitar pick in hand. Stringing out rather fluid and rhythmic tunes. With an edgy feel. Mixed with a little rock vibe and soul. Maybe alternative whatever that truly meant. A unique self written. As his voice sang them in tune. The crowd was small, if more merely people passing by. Though certainly even a turn of a head was better than nothing. Some tossed coins. After being tossed out by Oliver and well for his own darn fault, to let any get washed up by alcohol. Roy was doing what he could. Not like capturing creeps aided to the filling of pockets, but the capturing was merely the payment in itself. Sometimes a kiss from a damsel certainly helped… His dark eyes gleamed to the reaction now to any figures around. Least sounded of awe. As his lips grew into a grin, but before he could really look proud of himself. He soon noticed it wasn't him at all. The mere figure swinging off rooftops. It was certainly impressive. Maybe rival… No, he wasn't going to say it or even think it… At that Roy had stopped playing. Merely a bystander as anyone else had been. Momentarily the figure disappeared and people most likely went on their way.

With the memento gone. Roy collected the coins and put the guitar back in its case. Slinging it back over his back. Maybe not entirely Speedy of him, but it was long until Roy embraced the autumn leaves that fell before coming to the Grocery stores door. After potentially dodging tragic. Hand swept to catch the door. In need of a couple of items. To pitch in after Kory had been so generous to allow him to reside in her apartment. Somehow he was sure it wasn't enough, but he was always good for it when it counted… Once inside, away from the crisp chill outside. Roy undid a button, maybe two of his dark coat. Paired off with some faded out jeans and boots. Not completely unkept, a little fuzzy around his jawline. Not quite the dark shadow… Picking up a basket. His eyes soon fell upon the figure from the rooftops. Only must closer, potentially bumping her slightly upon entering the little gates that leader further inside. Being the gentleman that he was, let the lady go first. With charming smile, as his dark coloured eyes trailed the length of her hair. There certainly was a curiosity if she was merely a woman gifted, most women were gifted with something, but was this more for her use. Because what he saw, there was potential for more, but one doesn't exactly just go up and ask without risk of getting slapped. Although Roy could be guilt for staring at her nice behind for more than a glance or two..

"If you haven't tried, the apples here are amazing… Roy!"

Roy offered the comment to the young woman as he passed her after coming through the little gate system. A little random in his gesture, but not false. Either it be a hit in sparking some conversation or she'd merely think him weird and wander on by. Offered a hand when mentioning in name in passing. With eye contact with her rather striking green momentarily, before he looked over to the apples and made his way. Though not as Speedy. The apples were certainly a part reason he came here. Far better than the ones in Bludhaven. Having a liking for apples, certainly couldn't be a weird thing. As soon as reaching the nicely stacked range of apples. His hand would reach for one. Feeling for minor imperfections. Bringing it up a little closer to his nose, just a subtle take in of the fresh smell.

[Deleted]

there will be man, wearing jeans, black leather jacket and a baseball cap, he has a distinctive tattoo of a snake that wraps around his neck, he always go to the convenient store to buy alcohol around this specific time, get rid of him and I will give you more work, don't disappoint me

Don't you love how these people who hire assassins think they are total bad asses but really most the time are total cowards... I mean if you are such a badass why hire someone else to do your dirty work? But this is what I will settle for... for now at least. There Cheshire stood watch, from a town house across the street, she took over an old spinster's house and had the elderly woman tied up right there in the living room watching Cheshire plan her assassination. The woman had to be at least in her mid 70s, grey hair, white blouse, blue floral long skirt, kind of frail. But Cheshire didn't care, she was just a pawn in her whole game. Poor unfortunate Granny, had to live in that exact house across the street from that specific store. 

"Hey Granny, it's chilly in here, no central heat...?" The old lady started mumbling with a gag over her mouth. "Oh shut it, I wont kill you unless your a good ol' granny, ok miss lady?" Cheshire then gave her a kick knocking over the lady tied to a chair. "Dammit I hate old people... back to work..."

Beginning of fall,everyone would be wearing jackets, okay, break it down to black leather. Get's pretty cold quick here in this city, the cool breeze just enough to chill your bones. Plus, who in the hell does this guy think he is anyway, give me more work? Am I a charity case? He obviously doesn't know who he is dealing with... I worked for the League of Assassins, that's like the top of the top in my world. But, unfortunately I messed that up... But for now beggars can't be choosers.

Whatever, let's check out this location. Seems like a quite area, not really much activity just a few people passing buy and going to this store obviously. Must be nice to live a normal life as simple as theirs... I can't remember the last time I went grocery shopping. Well look at that, a street performer of some sorts, he has a guitar, how cute... musicians... Cheshire thought as she sat on the side of the older lady. Then all of a sudden she seen him, the black leather jacket, the baseball cap, jeans, but does he have the tattoo? He was a rather large man, not fat but tall with a rough look to him. Looks shady to me... The guy approach the entrance of the store started looking around, in front of the door, like he was nervous, hmmm what does this guy have on him... As the brute was monitoring the area, the musician made his way into the store as well as a young lady, they seem to like each other. Probably just me jumping to conclusions...

The man unzipped his jacket a little revealing what Cheshire needed, the tattoo of the snake, bingo! It's like this fool wanted to get found, I mean he's looking suspicious enough looking like a paranoid ostrich in front of the establishment. Really who does that? Someone with blood on their hands most likely... "Okay here is the plan granny, so listen up I'll let him go in and give him about 5 minutes and when he's exiting ill shoot him with this bazooka and if that doesn't do the trick I'm going in after him and killing him with my sai... sounds good huh?" The old lady grunted angrily. "What!!!? I'm feeling reckless today... oh what do you know... shut it!" There he went in and now the plan was set in motion...

[Deleted]

As Alyce entered the gate-like area at the entrance of the store, she was bumped by a pretty good-looking guy.  In fact, it sort of looked like the guy that was playing that nice music out on the sidewalk she'd jumped down to.  She'd heard a little bit of his pleasant melody until the people decided that her free-running feats were more entertaining.  A few people had waved at her and given her thumbs up before she'd entered the store, and she'd just shyly waved back or nodded at them.  Simple gestures, but enough to let them know that she was appreciative of their compliments.  If only they knew what she was really capable of, then they may not think her so "awesome" then.

The street musician didn't appear to be much older than she was, and he was polite enough to allow her to go in front of him.  At first, she'd given him an annoyed expression, but once she realized that the bumping was an accident, Alyce smiled kindly and nodded her thanks.  She could feel his dark eyes on her, which suddenly made her wish that she was wearing something other than a pair of black jogging pants with pockets, black free-running shoes, and a light blue, long-sleeved T-shirt.  Her dark hair was pulled back into a low ponytail, held back by a simple leather tie, and fell to about the middle of her back. A few stray strands had fallen into her face, and she consciously brushed them behind her ears.  In her own opinion, Alyce didn't look or feel all that attractive at the moment.

"Uh, hello...  Mah name's Alyce.  Nice to meet you, Roy.  Ah'll take your word for it on the apples..." she replied in her still thick southern accent after the man had introduced himself to her.

Her high cheek bones caused her green eyes to take on a slight almond shape as she smiled a bit nervously at him.  Alyce watched Roy make his way past her and over to the apples.  Perhaps she could add a few apples to the list as well?  Should she go over and talk to the musician?  She could use some friends in Gotham.  Maybe this guy could be one of them?  Why not?  It couldn't hurt to try, at least, right?  Let it be known that Alyce is a rather short young woman.  Five-feet, three-inches, according to what the doctors at Arkham Asylum at measured her at.  So when she approached Roy at the apples, she couldn't help but feel slightly intimidated, and briefly wondered why she was thinking of talking to this guy again.  Because she didn't have anyone to talk to, that's why.  Straightening herself up, Alyce stood on her tip-toes and tore off a produce bag.  Then, she picked up a Gala apple, checked for imperfections, and sniffed it before placing it into the bag.

Peering up at Roy, she said, "Gala apples are mah favorite.  How about you?  Oh, and uh...sorry for ruinin' your show outside.  That wasn't mah intention."

[Roy Harper - Arsenal]

There was all chances he would get shot down from the first attempt at conversation. As much as Roy liked to think he knew what women wanted or least thought he knew how they wished to be treated. He was always in the knowing that you really can't know. There are always surprises. The annoyed expression made him a little deflated at first, but he caught a glimpse of the smile. Before she walked on through in front of him. Roy followed shortly at toe. His eyes panned a little, mostly wondering if he had seen her before. More her moves. Did she have a mask of her own? Then of course not all wore a mask. Though a showcase so public, really rather squashed the idea she'd have a quote on quote secret identity… Rather than push for answers. Roy went about his shopping list. A rather short list given he wasn't granted with so many coins anymore. Taking a basket in hand. By his timing the cute girl perked up with a reply. Roy naturally soaked up with his open ears, with a intended smile. That seriously was a voice that could light up a barn or a store in Gotham. So she was new to the city?

"The pleasure is mine… That is a beautiful accent, Alyce. Are you new to Gotham?"

As Roy had happily extended a hand, for a gentle shake. He had a couple of traditional quirks of his own. Commented hopefully in not ways to offend. Roy certainly can be forward in things he said at times, usually from a genuine place… Especially favoured how Alyce said Hello. It seemed it was hardly used. Even he was guilty, it was often shortened to hey and it was a little more casual than, Greetings. Which he enjoyed, but Hello was certainly nice to hear every once in a while… Asking with curiosity if she was new in the city. Roy was sure he was normal correct in his initial thoughts. Then that was the human thing, right… Roy had stepped off. On casual pursuit of the apples. He really didn't know what was next on his list. Whether he had something else in mind and somehow forgot it right now. Maybe simply winging it a little. After checking some apples in their hold devices, soon Alyce joined the apple picking… Catching bits out of the corner of his eye, so not to be at all creepy… Naturally moved along the row of apples, before ended up too at the Gala apples. Reached out a hand to one of the apples. Bumped in very close centimetres to Alyce's, as her bright pretty green eyes peered up to his slightly darker in colour. Not exactly shoulder to shoulder. Close distance, as he blushed a little himself in a smile and at her words. Mostly her accent had that naturally way of rolling off her tongue so lovely and was calming to listen to. Was a sweet reminder given he grew up in the south west, though seemed like distanced memories.

"Me too… Though from time to time switch to the Ol' green ones… Nonsense. A skilled pretty lady like yourself; I'm happy to play second fiddle… Are these skills, what brought you to Gotham? Brave, to so publicly might I had. Impressed!"

Roy responded with a smile and honestly. The Gala apples were just the better apples and to be frank, most reliable. Slipping a couple into a produce bag and handed Alyce the last Gala in his hand. It was almost to perfect apple for him to take for himself. Instead in his own slight and we mean slight southern accent. Picking up out a couple granny smiths… Although wasn't like he sat down listening to how his voice sounded, but he certainly could pop out traces of growing up in the southern west, but it was gesture than it wasn't unknown to him… Roy smiled as Alyce made the apology… He certainly had no idea she had in turn stalked him. Roy kindly waved a hand in gesture that she didn't ruin his performance. Musicians always start as opening acts and he was happy to give her the stage. Even if it was unintentional or not… Roy had certainly been impressed himself. Especially so openly, where as he was guilty of the secrecy. He certainly could see the danger in an open display, but it was indeed bravery. Though skill almost seemed natural. Like shooting an arrow.

[Deleted]

Alyce stiffened a little when Roy asked her if her...skill is what brought her to Gotham. She really didn't want to divulge the truth to him just yet. They'd just met, after all, and if she'd told him that she was there because she'd tracked down one of her mother's and fellow tribesmen's killers, snapped his neck with her telekinetic ability, and then scalped the guy, Roy would most likely run the other direction. Furthermore, she didn't want to tell him that she'd been put in Arkham Asylum for about a year because of that incident.

"Um, well, sort of," Alyce answered him a bit cryptically. "Free-runnin' here is more fun than runnin' in the woods and small towns back home in Cherokee, North Carolina, that's for sure."

She gave him a small, almost uncertain smile before placing a few more Gala apples into the produce bag and tying it up. Suddenly, she was a bit nervous. Roy Harper seemed like a nice, average, ordinary guy. Alyce was far from ordinary, and not very nice, either. She knew deep down that she would kill again, and that it wouldn't bother her in the slightest. Especially if it was someone dealing with the murders back home, or who degraded her fellow Native people, or even her meta-human kin. She didn't think she would hurt Roy, though. At least, she hoped that she wouldn't, or wouldn't have to, anyway...

"And Ah know it seems 'brave' of me to show off in public," Alyce went on, shrugging, trying to cover up her nervousness. "But if you have the ability to do so, then why not? Why be afraid to show your gifts? You don't seem to be afraid to show your gift of music off to others, so why should Ah be afraid to show off mah gift of free-runnin'? Besides, Ah was actually out on an exercise run when Ah decided to grab a few things from the store, heh."

She then paused for a moment, cocked her head to the side, and asked, "Do you know if this place carries grits? Ah haven't had any of those in quite a while..."

[Roy Harper - Arsenal]

Who really was Roy to ask if Alyce was new to Gotham? Wasn't like Roy was entirely at home, but maybe that was more detailing the curiosity. Maybe instinct. Perhaps a little pursuit. Not in sense of the word creepy. Roy was all cool, dark and with just a hint of danger. If that danger was potentially ending up in a ditch, but he had more or less left those days behind. Picking out apples in a grocery store in Gotham, seemed like good steps in some direction. His hand grasping at an almost perfect apple, only to find a hole as he turned it around. Now Roy wasn't picky, but preferred a more intact apple. No. No. Maybe. Finally stumbled upon a decent crisp apple… Bringing the fresh scent to his nostrils. His dark eyes brought back mildly as Alyce responded. Perhaps a little hesitate, perhaps she was a little shy. Little bit of talk was all he was truly aiming for… Any response was a delight… You really never know what you will find in the smallest tellings. Brought the apple away from himself and offered to Alyce in gesture. As the corner of his lips turned into a smile.

"Ah, yeah those trees can get in the way… In fact, I instinctually remember… Cherokee, you say. A tribeswoman? Huh!… Where are my manners… Osiyo… It has been sometime, since I've met a Cherokee… A very long time… Seems we are both far from home… I use to roam my younger years in the Arizona region, with the Navajo tribe…"

Roy certainly liked to think he was mostly ordinary, well… An ordinary man with a lot of weapons at his disposal, but what guy didn't have a liking for lethal weapons. He could also dabble into a little humour, least Roy thought he was charming and funny. Women were always in between wanting the comedian, but not too funny and yet not to serious… Roy as he responded could of course relate to running in woods and other kinds of darkly places. He was maybe always a tad bit Speedy, but he certainly didn't always have his great reflexes as he did today. As he almost flashed a memory of him meeting a tree. As his tone swung with just that tad of amusement and a little embarrassment, but he clearly one out in the end… As Roy almost dropped his apples, as he expressed his delight to hearing Cherokee and surprise to potentially see a tribeswoman in Gotham. If she was truly indeed… Before putting his bag of apples safely into his basket. Brushed his hands, as he turned to Alyce. Keeping in mind he wasn't in the great know of everything Cherokee, but he knew a little. Least he hoped he pronounced it correctly. Before a gentle reach of her hand, for a simple kiss. That was probably more Roy's style added. Diving in a little of his knowledge and history when he was too a tribesman. Far far away from North Carolina, but there was something to be said with them both meeting in a grocery store in Gotham.

"The guitar is like a security blanket, behind it is all butterflies. Especially when there is someone around the corner to take my spot… Your gifts I would imagine are a bit more unique… The audience you could attract, may not always be so observant or as charming, but then I do myself get upon occasion; the pulling out hair crazy people… So you're probably right… Though I do like to keep a little hidden in my Arsenal… I suppose its really dependant on what you want to do with your gifts, but at the end of the day… They are yours…"

In many ways Roy was indeed fearless, although as he lent with the lightness in his tone, that without the guitar he was all but naked on the street. Much could be said about his weapons, but then he could make almost anything into a weapon. Looking around the grocery store was far more like a weaponry store than one would imagine… In this world today, there was always someone wanting to be the next Adam Levine. Someone just waiting in the wings to take a moment of fame. Not that fame was Roy's reasons. Was one thing he could make a little bit of money, in his line of work it could be hard to come by… Turning to Alyce as he was almost on the money that, her gifts were more unique. Lesser people, though not completely solo… Though even in his quest for wisdom as to reasons it was dangerous, much could be said for simply making music on the street… Moving from the apples to Lettuce. Carrots. Maybe even some tomatoes, before realising this was potentially rabbit food.. Mentioning Arsenal in such the cool suave way, feeling truth, amongst the hidden cards. Suggesting a little mystery could be good and potentially work in ones favour… Though who was Roy to really project anything as he looked back. At the end of the day they were truly your own gifts to do what you want… Certainly knowing the path he had taken, as good as it was to save people, it was also self sacrificing at the best of times. Not something you easily want to put your hand up for, unless you know…. At the hearing of her exercise run to the grocery store. Pretty much running for food, Roy looked for red shoes.

"Wow… Nor have I… I'm sure we can hunt some down"

Grits. It had certainly been a long time since Roy had eaten such a thing. A very long time. He couldn't say whether or not the grocery store had it or not. It would almost seem criminal if it didn't. As his eyes picked up and down the rows of aisle. It had to be here somewhere and he could guarantee if it was here, they'd find it. He was a master hunter after all. Couldn't sell the bows in his quiver to shortly. Before offering Alyce an arm, if she wished to part take upon the hunt.

[Deleted]

Smiling a bit shyly as Harper handed her an apple, she took it, and as she did, her fingers accidentally, lightly, grazed his. Alyce blushed, which she was sure was causing her high cheekbones to turn a nice shade of rosy pink. It'd been a long time since Alyce had talked to a guy in a normal type of setting, so her interaction with Roy was beginning to make her slightly nervous. The fact that she had a dark secret wasn't even really an issue right now. The issue was that she just needed to relax. The guy was just striking up polite conversation. That's what normal people do.

"Osiyo back..." she replied, adding the apple Roy had given her to the bag of apples she had put into her basket. "Navajo, huh? Well, then it is indeed a pleasure to meet a fellow Native here in Gotham! There's not too many of us in this city, Ah don't think."

Alyce was truly surprised, and delighted, to hear him say "hello" her Native tongue, as well as the fact that he'd ran with the Navajo tribe in the Southwest. Unfortunately, she didn't know the Navajo languange even remotely well enough to say "hello" in that tongue. Still, perhaps she wouldn't be completely alone in the city after all. Maybe, she'd at least have someone of possible like-mind to talk to on the occasion. Suddenly, he gently took her small hand in his and layed a light kiss upon it. This made her blush even deeper than the first time, and she listened as he explained about how the guitar he plays is like a type security blanket to him. Honestly, Alyce didn't peg Roy as the type to need something to hide behind. Having the nerve to play his own music out on the streets is pretty brave, in her opinion. Did his words have a deeper meaning, then? Is he hiding some sort of secret himself?

Instead of getting nosy and inquiring about it like she might have done with someone else, she simply said, "Yes, what a person does with his or her own gifts or skills is their perrogative. No one should ever be condemned for their abilities, either."

She had said this last part a little darkly, but quickly smiled and followed Roy towards the lettuce, carrots, and tomatoes. Alyce didn't get the exact same things as he got, but she did pick up some asparagus, green onion, fresh mushrooms, spinach leaves, green pepper, and finally, a couple of tomatoes herself. Idly, she wondered what he would do if she were show her telekinetic ability in front of him. She almost wanted to, right in front of everyone, but she restrained herself. That might not be conducive. Some people might freak out and cause others to panic. After all, most people fear what they do not understand, and her ability isn't exactly understood by the world's general population. Alyce supposed Roy had a point about keeping a part of his "arsenal" hidden. She often did the same, hiding her telekinetic ability unless otherwise in the mood to use it.

When Roy responded that he hadn't had grits in a long time, either, Alyce smiled at him and took his arm when he offered it in order to go find them together. She had to admit that he was kind of cute, in an odd sort of way, but she liked odd. She'd always been attracted to the underling for some reason or another. In Roy's case, he was just nice, and had a sense of humor, which she liked. Then, there was that slight mysteriousness about him that attracted her as well. He just had good energy surrounding him, and with what she'd gone through in the past year and a half or so, it was nice to be around someone who wasn't insane or dangerous. At least, she didn't think that Roy was dangerous. If he turned out to be, then she could certainly handle herself, but honestly, she didn't feel like he was any sort of criminal. Then again, she probably didn't seem like she was any sort of criminal to Roy, either. Whatever, Alyce was just going to go along with him on the hunt for grits and see happens.

"Ah hope we can find some grits, too, my new gi'neli. That's 'friend', by the way, in case you're a bit rusty on your Cherokee," she said with a wink and small laugh as she started to lead the way down the nearest isle in the store. "If you don't mind me askin', where did you learn to speak my Native tongue? Ah assume at Pow-Wows, but...figured Ah should ask before just assumin', heh."

It really wasn't too great of a curiosity as to how someone who stayed with the Navajo knew the Cherokee languange. Tribes from all over the country tend to gather at various Pow-Wows, and languanges are often exchanged. Alyce herself just hadn't met too many Navajo to learn their languange. Then again, she hadn't attended too many Pow-Wows, given that she's only twenty-two years of age. The ones that she did attend were always the ones held in and/or near her hometown.

Having no clue where everything in the store was located, Alyce just started looking. She had to get a few other things besides what she'd all ready put into her basket, so she kept an eye out for that stuff as well. She came across a couple cans of beef stew, some crackers, chocolate...then, she led the way towards the dairy section to pick up a small jug of milk and some cheese. Finally, she spotted the cereal isle. If this store had grits, then they would most likely be in that section. Her basket was getting pretty full, so thankfully, the grits were the last thing on her mental list of items to get.

"Come on, Roy," she said, giving him an almost playful tug on his arm as she started down the cereal isle. "If this place has grits, then they should be in this section!"

[Roy Harper - Arsenal]

There was defiantly an added perk to Roy's smile as the apple handed had indeed been accepted. Even so much he did feel the ever slight graze of her finger. Wasn't that always a draw for most. The accidental graze? With the ever slight raise of Roy's brow, but quickly settled as his eyes brushed over the ever slight cascading tinge to Alyce's cheeks. Just that little touch. That little sign, besides the obvious sign it was nerves, but at least for Roy it was also the physical sign of moving someone from the inside in thee most subtle way. Sure it was the added vulnerability, that was often a forgiven trait. As Roy's eyes were diverting, there was the ever subtle wink. Sure there was always part of Roy nervous with women, he was often guarded with showing his vulnerabilities, they just rang in a deeper place…

"Indeed, until today I was under the impression I was the only one… Added familiar company is always welcomed… Anymore I'm not sure how Gotham would cope!"

There was an extra stretch in his smile as he spoke, adding to his own surprise pleasure in meeting another tribesman or tribeswoman as he defiantly noted at. Though even through Roy's words, he really hadn't thought of coming across tribes people at all in Gotham, that was until now of course. Roy's pleasant smile if it could widen anymore and friendly gaze from fruit section in the grocery store. Roy certainly was happy to have the added company of Alyce… Even if they didn't cross paths from the store, but somehow he gathered this wouldn't be the last time. Roy lightly jesting two of them were enough, if they're really were an entire tribe it probably would have been noted… Though Gotham really didn't strike the place many tribes people would reside, but perhaps with how the modern world was evolving… Who could truly predict? Roy didn't hinder whether Alyce knew the Navajo language. No, defiantly not at all. Roy was certainly swept up enough in Alyce simply talking English, more importantly in that accent… That wasn't an easy thing to lose. As Roy had made the light, simple gesture at reaching for her delicate hand and planted a kiss. Of course it had the many shots of earning him a hard slap across the cheek, but Alyce seemed to receive it rather well. As Roy seemingly caught again the colouring on her cheeks. Roy soon gently gave back her hand, as the conversation continued on, Roy moved off a little from the apples. Taking his time in picking up any additional fruits or veggies he felt he was required to get… That was the mystery of ROY HARPER, he was more open, out going and wittier than many would give him credit for, that was hardly what Roy was seeking. Whatever he did have hiding, was a built up from many years. Just as there were secrets he may keep, there were plenty more mysteries that even he didn't truly know about himself.

"Touche! With any gift or skill, one needs to know the limit of control, otherwise you do open yourself up to hurting others… I mean, you should have heard me at the beginning. Had I not learnt control, I would be still busting people's ears and not in the good way."

When a lady was right, she was right, but Roy certainly agreed. Although having been in the world he had thrown himself in, he knew such judgement wasn't easy to escape, but it really was the attitude to keep true that was the way through it. WIth all that said, with any gift or skill, there was always some limit you needed or should, it was darkly path to go down that may seem bump free at the start, but much harder to come back from. Though Roy really wasn't looking at Alyce directly in saying this, he couldn't know what her limits in what she could, couldn't do or would and wouldn't do. It was though a warning that is easy to forget… In Roy's little distant gaze, it was soon returned with the ever subtle blink and amusing tone in his voice. Leading it back to when he first began with his desire to play the guitar and how it wasn't the gift as it was now. That was a good way to bring it back home.

"If you don't mind me asking. Did your gifts bring you to Gotham? The home of the bat… If so I'll keep an eye on the papers. I always favoured the heroic ladies."

Roy was light in his questioning, but she certainly wouldn't be the first to come here to become heroic or villainous… Though looking upon her, perhaps it had been much the driving thought, but somehow. Something tugged she had potential, well he'd hope of course for the greater good, as much as he could possibly dig a bad chick, he didn't favour having to take them down. In that sense anyways… Roy was light hearted in his tone in his last words, hinting to see her in the papers possibly saving the day. As Roy caught her smile and then gladly took his arm. Before commenting he did favour the ladies than the men. Even now knowing he was generally respectful, he defiantly needed to now. For all he knew she had the ability to toss him across the room if she wanted to, well he probably deserved it, but his back and limbs would not thank him for it. Quickly settled with Alyce on his arm, her arm gently linked with his own. Totally not picturing skipping through this supermarket as if they were in OZ, although he could be forgiven imagining they skip right out of the supermarket… He really didn't think twice about any danger, she could probably kill him if he even tried a less than cool move. It really wasn't his style… If he wanted to sweep a girl off her feet, it be carefully done.

"Wow, in that case… I am, very rusty gi'neil."

Friend wasn't entirely what Roy was expecting Alyce to call him only moments ago he was just a stranger with a possible fetish for apples, but he certainly wasn't taken a step back from it. Defiantly not going to pull back and go 'ew girl germs', sometimes there needed to be a little risk in getting to know someone new. Besides every angle he had seen thus far showed a lovely and sweet friend. That just happened to be a girl. As Roy smiled brightly in his pause before admitting he was very rusty in the language, but he defiantly was open to the new friend. If he pronounced that correctly. Now following as Alyce began leading the way down aisles. Roy looked at the shelves, but he wasn't entirely sure where they would find grits. Before his eyes looked back as Alyce questioned how he knew any of her native tongue. That was… Well…!

"For what I can vaguely remember… Yes, it was at Pow-wows! "

It was many many years, least it seemed like a lifetime ago, but rather than dig into details, Roy did recall it was at Pow-wows, yes he defiantly remembered that part, but there were probably more details he had either forgotten or avoiding. It was after all a lifetime ago. Roy ended with a simple smile and glance at Alyce. For a moment he looked at her more curiously, but he was sure he would have recalled her face had they met before. No, no he was confident. Mostly. As his gaze returned back to the aisle. This certainly seemed a dead end of too many spices and herbs. Stopping momentarily as they picked up things needed along the way. Just as Roy was deciding between light or full fat milk. Felt the playful tug on his arm. Finally settling on light milk, before happily followed the initial tugging. AS his brown eyes glanced from her to the direction she was pulling him.

"Lead the way pretty lady… Now are we wanting instant or cooking Grits?"

That was the question as Roy looked to Alyce closely attached to his arm with a smile, before glancing down the aisle. Looking between the cereal, but no doubt the oat meal section is where he would assume it most likely be in.

[Deleted]

"Um..." Alyce began to reply awkwardly, stiffening a little at Roy's question and casual comment. "It's...complicated... And Ah don't think Ah have what it takes to be a hero, so Ah wouldn't count on seein' me in the papers for that."

She fidgeted a bit where she stood in the isle when she said all of this, inadvertently showing how nervous she was. She couldn't help it, though. As much of a nice guy as Roy seemed to be, she honestly didn't feel super comfortable around him. Especially right now, even though he'd said his heroic lady comment light-heartedly. Perhaps calling him a friend was a bit too premature? They'd just met, after all. Of course, Alyce had just gotten out of Arkham Asylum a few months ago and was slowly getting back into regular society, too. She'd been around insane murderers, rapists, and theives for almost two years. She was a murderer, even though she really didn't see herself as such. Alyce felt that what she did was purely for the justice of her mother and other fallen tribespeople. Nothing more, nothing less. She might be young, but wasn't stupid. She knew that telling Roy the truth would more than likely scare him away from her, so she simply tried to avoid the topic. Not that it would really matter if she did scare him off, since not having him on her mind would be more conducive to continuing her hunt for the killers. The police and vigilantes here in Gotham seem to care less about what happened to her people, and no one else was willing to find them, so Alyce felt that it was up to her to do so. It would give her piece of mind, if nothing else.

She grinned a bit when Roy said that he was very rusty in his Cherokee and that, from what he could remember, he did learn her Native language at Pow-Wows. Again, this wasn't far-fetched, so Alyce went with it and didn't question on that subject any further. Instead, she led the way down the cereal isle when he inclined her to do so. When he asked if they were looking for instant or cooking grits, Alyce blushed a bit and shrugged. She still didn't feel all that pretty right now, even though Roy said that she was, in fact, a "pretty lady". It was kind of odd to hear him say this, really, because most guys she'd met generally thought of her as simply being "cute", not "pretty".

"Ah really don't care what kind they are, as long as they're grits. It's been a few years since I've been able to have them. Ah used to eat them with a couple of eggs for breakfast," she answered, gently breaking free of his arm and beginning to scrutinize the dried breakfast foods before her.

Not finding anything with the boxes of cereal, she turned around to find the oatmeals. Thankfully, this store was laid out like most other grocery stores Alyce had been in, having all of the non-cold breakfast items in the same section.

Still not seeing what she was looking for, she uttered, "Curiouser and curiouser... Now, you would think with Gotham being a sort of melting-pot, that a person would be able find some good ol' fashioned southern grits."

She hadn't said this directly to Roy; it was more to herself, but she looked at him with her green eyes anyway as if to ask, "Right?"

"Ah mean," she went on. "Ah've been to grocery stores all over Gotham just about, and Ah haven't been able to find them! Guess Ah'll have to have mah friend from back home send me some the next time Ah talk to him."

Alyce sighed, readjusted her basket, and gave Roy a small smile. "Well, Ah suppose Ah'm done here. If you are, then Ah'm ready to check out."

[Roy Harper - Arsenal]

Roy didn't take with great notice, but faintly as Alyce paused in relation to his questionings. Yeah, he knew it was a shot that could have been a little more personal. Given how much. How long he had been in that sort of limelight. Circle. Whatever the hell you wanted to call it. It certainly possible even if Roy said he was Arsenal. Heck even Speedy, quite the chance it wouldn't stick out for many. He wasn't the flashy newspaper kinda hero. If he hang up his quiver and knives tomorrow, would they truly remember him? Roy was maybe not at that reach and nor did he really need to. It did not take away the fact he was just as if not more than passionate about his line work. Even both lines in a way, but the hero role. It just came natural to him. He was good at it. Perhaps put it before other things in his life, even relationships took a strain. That was sort of short end of the straw of the game. Though Roy certainly could help a smile at Alyce's humble words. To be fresh. New to it all. Even in her words of doubting it. He knew how quietly it can creep up on you and take you on the destiny you least expected.

"I don't know if I'm the next Simon Cowell on this, but from what I saw… What I see before me, Alyce? Is nothing short of a lady with any destiny she wants to grab… And hero defiantly not short of a grab… Not hard to see the ambition! Perhaps you have a mission already insight!"

Roy responded with a mild joke. Could he truly judge on this? Put his two cents in? With the half curve of his smile, he gave it anyway. Was it really just apples Roy had chased over the road? As he moved through the aisle, with Alyce short in toe. Pulling at grapes, of course stealing a couple in his mouth, but that was a given right? There was defiantly something there. More, than perhaps even Alyce could see, now… There was the free spirit. Passion swelling around even at the surface in her eyes. Even if the true details laid deep inside, Roy knew that look. Knew the signs. The shy. Coy. Something deeper usually was underneath. How much was truly running through her pretty little head? How much was pumping in that heart? Roy loosely commented, least from his point of view. Hero or anything of the sort, wasn't out of reach. Simply being herself, could be put down as heroic… His rather charming eyes laid, glancing upon her as he mentioned the ambition. Least he was assuring he was seeing correctly, with what he could. With ever faint wink, as he humbly questioned she had a mission all her own. Whether that was just in innocent flirtatious of the moment or something more personal. Truthful. He left that up to her. He was but a stranger, but friend didn't seem the greatest leap. Sometimes you had to take the risk and some were worth the risk. As quickly as Roy had let Alyce lead the way down the cereal aisle. After all, ladies first. Not that he was a complete perv, but hey she was a cute, pretty girl. Catching the sway of her locks as she all but bounced ahead of him. Roy was simply left to smile, before the snap he was suppose to be helpful… Grits! Grits! Grits! Roy said to his mind. As his eyes followed the shelves, trailing off every now and again.

"Hmmm, utterly mouth watering… Have you tried cheddar and garlic? Mind blowing… Oh, come to think of it, I haven't in a while, but did use to make a mean shrimp dish… If you'd be interested."

Roy commented out loud, shortly behind Alyce in response to her mention of Grits and eggs for breakfast. Well, whether or not there were other reasons for mouth watering… Smiling softly. Sure part of him was churning like butter on the inside, but he was usually outspoken enough. Convey the confidence, whether or not he had actual game, but the man was trying. With any natural charm he had. Though the mentioning. The talking of grits, was certainly bringing back things he'd all, but left behind. Not so much on purpose, its just you know something that happens. Recalling the Cheddar and garlic. Besides the breath, Roy certainly had a little weakness for garlic, then perhaps most people did. As Roy reminisced ever so subtly and openly before. Technically behind Alyce… Leading to the shrimp dish. To which lead to a possible invitation. Even though he had no clue if he had just shot completely in the dark nor where this invitation would bring them, but why eat grits alone! As they stopped briefly, just glancing in the oat meal section. Roy was not too up in her space, but in close range. As smiled his more smouldering look, naturally of course. As he soon shook his head in response to the lack of grits it was appearing, but also shaking his head at them possibly getting defeated… What kinda hunter was he? More importantly what kind of man was he if he could not hunt down what the pretty lady was graving.

"Melting-pot! I'm gonna have to remember that!!! Well, that just won't do, milady! If its one thing I lack is 'knowing defeat'!.. Just give me a minute…"

Repeating her words, Roy had overheard easily. How could he not, at that reference! Making a mental note to remember wit. Offering a simple smile, before he was met with her eyes… Full attention, perhaps! That could be so. Though her words that sounded of defeat… Roy just wasn't sure he was going to easily accept, especially not feeling like he had really put an effort. Of course it was maybe an over reach to say Roy didn't know defeat, but he was attempting the charms. Putting the effort… As he motioned a hand as he requested a little time, of course he wouldn't hold her to it, but hoped she'd allow him a little…. Before stepping away momentarily. His eyes looked up the aisle, glimpsing sight of a worker at the Grocery Store. With Roy's determined steps. Lead him to the young man, possibly help paying his way through school, who knows. What was important was Grits? As Roy and the man dwelled momentarily in conversation. Requiring about Grits, to which the man shook his head, that for a moment was doubtful, but then offered information with a great deal of hope. Even better. Directions. Roy could have almost kissed him, but rather shook his hand… Before Roy walked away, to find Alyce again. It wasn't a hard find. She may not see it, but she was a diamond in the rough. At first approach, Roy shook his head as if it was bad news.

"Well, bad news. There is no grits here, not even marked cornmeal, but good news there is Grits in Gotham… There is a organic, small produce, exotic store a couple blocks from here… So what do you think pretty lady? Care for a walk or I can hail a cab?"

Revealing as Roy's tone was down regarding the bad news, but picked up just that little more as he revealed the good news. Was this the most impressive display of his hunting skills? Probably not. As Roy dived into the details he had been told. Least trying to remember most of it, but the directions were easy enough to follow. As he mentioned it was in distance, a decent walk, but was certainly in reach… As Roy smiled pausing. That was if the pretty lady wanted to go, let alone with him. Walking down the street with a man she just met, he'd understand. Though he gracefully allowed her the choice, of course. Without even much thought as Roy motioned towards the registers to get their items checked out. He motioned to help Alyce with her basket and carry it with his free hand. Out of instinctually gesture, whilst offering a comforting smile. Before taking the walk beside the pretty lady, potentially a new friend.

[Deleted]

She did have a mission already in sight, but she wasn't about to divulge it to Roy. Alyce was out for blood. Revenge is generally not considered an act of heroism. Surely he would be disgusted by her choices, or turn her into the police, or both. Probably both. Then again, she knew next to nothing about Roy except that he has some pretty good guitar skills, he's nice, has a sense of humor, and seems to be a bit eccentric. For all she knew, he could be a hero or criminal himself. After all, just because a person's nice to another, it doesn't mean that they don't have some dark, hidden agenda. Ignoring Roy's humble question about a mission, Alyce answered his question about garlic and cheddar grits instead.

"No, Ah don't think Ah've tried grits that way. Sounds like they would be, as you say, 'mind blowin'', though," she said, pausing for a moment to let his subtle invitation sink in, and then, "Ah do like shrimp... Ah might take you up on that offer sometime."

Who knows? If he gave her his phone number or some other way of contacting him, who's to say she'd deny him his shrimp dinner for two then? It's not like she had anything to lose. That's why she lived for the day, because she didn't know what the next one will bring. She giggled a little when Roy began helping her find some grits, going so far as to ask a store clerk. He ended up finding out that there was a small, exotic store that sold organic produce. Alyce's mouth dropped open a little. Now why hadn't she thought of asking someone, or even thought of going to an organic store herself? Duh. She blushed when Roy once again called her a "pretty lady" and asked if he could either walk with her to the organic store, or hail a cab to do the same. Then, he surprised her by offering to take her grocery basket off her hands and help her to the checkout. She was so not used to this.

Smiling a bit shyly at him, Alyce answered, "Ah think a cab would be better. Where is this organic store at, exactly? The way you're talkin', it doesn't sound like it's too far from here."

She allowed Roy to help her with the basket, and began walking side-by-side with him towards the checkout. Once there, she took the basket from him and placed everything near the register. After paying, she waited for Roy to pay for his items. Alyce could have very easily just left him there and hailed a cab herself, but...why do that when he was offering? It would save some of her borrowed money, and besides, it wouldn't hurt to have some company. She really could use a friend in Gotham, even if she couldn't tell him everything about herself just yet.

[Roy Harper - Arsenal]

Hmmm, to say the pretty lady wasn't a mystery, certainly be a lie. Wasn't that half the joys in the discovery. For all Roy knew she was someone much more than what he had seen and what he had discovered so far. What exactly she was ravelled up in, it wasn't entirely Roy's place to do the unravelling. At least not yet. As his gaze as charming as he really was upon Alyce. With words of friends and silly little glances, perhaps they were on their way. As much as Roy had the reputation for being quick, he certainly was patient. Far patient. He'd personally like to think he was somewhat sharp like his arrows, but he was humble enough to know he'd fall flat sometimes. Maybe more often than he'd admit… Though he certainly didn't like it without doing as best he could to try. Perhaps he was a little bit of a perfectionist in some aspects… As the mission for Grits was seemingly a hard mission to crack… Though, could he truthfully been disappointed had it taken a little time. Any reason really… As his eyes were more often taken in glances to the casual simplistic beauty. Certainly the way of the conversation was doing wonders to his ears. With a subtle laugh as she repeated his words 'mind blowing'! Certainly not at her, but the more endeared laugh and possibly a little at himself. As simple and natural as it brought the smile to his face…. Ay, not so bad. He had taken the shot and it wasn't completely shot down. Not that this was at all about keeping score, it never was, he learnt that many many times ago.

"Defiantly… I don't see why we can't do a little of both… Might as well, its been a while since I've done the shrimp dish… If need be, I'll take the first bite… Uh…! If you do decide too… Just give me a buzz!"

Roy agreed responding in kind with his smile and eye contact on Alyce… Of course he was down for even the slightest extra time, more was even better. Even though his excitement didn't have him jump around in a circle, but it was clear he was more than content, Alyce had more than not shot him down. In turn Roy played of kindly. Perhaps mindlessly or maybe a little mindfully as his fingers caught a strand or two from the frame of Alyce's eyes. Not crossing further boundaries, as Roy offered the possibility of joining the different kinds of grits. Together or even the chances of another time, if the first time wasn't a total bust… As Roy could humbly play off it had been a while since he'd messed with such a recipe of grits and shrimp. Not of course he was more than sure given the reason, he was sure he'd mostly come on top, but to be safe. It was certainly was harder to deliver expectations when it was set already high. With the humour in his voice and the assuring wink, though in truth. If in doubt Roy would take the potential first bite to be sure… With a step back, Roy searched as he paused briefly, until he reached out a card with his name and number… Well, not entirely a business card, that would require Roy to work in business, but you never knew who'd be lurking around street corners. Hiding in bars, when one was performing music. Not that Roy was entirely looking for his break out moment, but hey. Best to be prepared, plus it seemed to come in handy for such moments at this. Because lets face it, giving out your digits, always felt that tiny bit awkward and cheesy.. Roy couldn't only hope it wasn't done to cheesy, as he offered out his card with a casual yet kind grin. Hopefully that didn't come off to cheesy as well… Leaving that in Alyce's hopeful hands, before trying to play some level of heroics to find the grits. Without even a bribe involved, eventually Roy had managed of course it really wouldn't be complete until they had it in their hands, but it was something… Defiantly. As the good news weighed out the bad, from the looks from Alyce's reaction. That was worth it. Catching the shades at her delicate cheeks were just bonuses, as Roy humbled a smile and taking the extra weight with her basket to take to the checkout.

"A cab it is then. They can be a pain to hail, but I do know a trick or two!!! Its three streets down and then two up and should see it on the corner across from a pet shop… So not far… In fact, I thinks its near a record store I across from time to time… So you live in the area?"

As Roy was just as content, however Alyce wished to travel. Although she was probably more than right, Roy had almost forgotten they'd have bags. Not many, but least it save carting them. He of course wouldn't complain in doing the carting. That's something he figured was a given, though he did commented as he could only assume Alyce may or may not have as much of an experience with getting cabs. A little better than hailing them in New York, but in the recent years, it certainly felt like that had trickled in. Of course sparking hope, he did have tricks up his sleeves. Offering with also his hopeful glance. Some tricks probably wasn't so equipped to do in his current state, unless he had a sudden costume change… That maybe a conversation changer for another day… As Roy too settled at the checkout counter. Taking the items out of the basket, putting them on the sliding track table thing, really what was that thing called? Hmmm, anyway! As Roy detailed the directions, gestured with his hand down and then up. Not far and more easy than even he imagined… Paused as he mentally was sure he'd been in that area.. Least vague knew. As Roy then seemingly randomly mentioned a record store. Eyes faintly shifted. As if mentally noting, this coming together to share grits was gonna happen, there could be use of music. Maybe something new, well most likely vintage to a point, but still evidently anything new in the situation would almost deem new… As Roy asked, continuing the conversation. Of course not demanding for address, no he wasn't that creepy, just asking in general. Was curious how long if she was doing the city living now? How she was taken it in comparison as Roy could certainly recall the changes himself! Of course for him it was when he was much younger. As the items finally emptied the baskets. Roy mindfully took his and Alyce's, placing them in the collecting pile. While the items were scanned and collected into the paper bags, one would assume. Pulling out his wallet to pay… Slipping it back in his pocket. Circled an arm around his bag, before offering the same with Alyce's bag with his other arm. Before of course allowing Alyce to lead the way out the door, shortly and closely behind.