Fool Me Twice [Charlotte, Kory, Dick, Selina, Bruce]

[Deleted]

[...or 'meet the family.' This thread is the third installment, following First Impressions, and running concurrently with Fool me Once.]

[Deleted]

Frowning in deep thought, Charlotte tries her best to concentrate. And since she's in algebra class, it takes a lot of mental effort to keep her attention where it should be, but she's managing. At least until her phone vibrates in her pocket. Fortunately, this school is a lot more relaxed than the others she's been to - she doesn't have to be surreptitious about checking the text she received since the teachers expect the students to use their best judgment when it comes to that sort of thing. Which isn't expecting too much in this place since the type of kid who doesn't want to be here generally doesn't stay here for very long.

The text causes the thoughtful frown to shift into one of slight concern. Selina had warned her that there were some inherent risks with what she does, and that there needed to be plans in place in case something happened that put her in danger. Charlotte wouldn't say that she'd taken it too seriously at the time because what kind of criminal goes after a security expert? Of course, Selina works with a lot of big names, so maybe... But still, the odds seemed to be remote. Yet here she has a text saying otherwise. Then again, it can't be too bad if Selina is saying 'I'm fine', right?

Though if it really isn't that bad, Charlotte is kind of annoyed that she's being pulled out of class. No, it's not because she enjoys algebra class that much - far from it! It's because the learning curve she's been dealing with while getting caught up in school is already like running headlong into a brick wall, and missing classes will not help that at all. Still, she gathers up her things. And just as she's finishing, the teacher gets a page telling him to send her to the office - she's up and gone before the teacher has a chance to respond, but he shrugs that off and continues ruining math by adding letters to it.

As she'd been told, Charlotte swings by her locker to get the bag out of it on her way to the office, and then she's nodding to Gennifer and taking a seat in one of the plush chairs in the office area. Let's see - D, K, or A is coming to get her? Dick, Kory, or Alfred, if she's remembering correctly. They're all just names and photos to her since she's never met them, though if Selina trusts them then they're probably okay. Though she finds herself wiggling just a little bit more than usual as she watches the entrance to the office for one of the somewhat familiar faces to appear - she just wants to know what's going on so that she knows how much she should be worrying.

[Kory Anders - Starfire]

The day hadn't initially started too early for Kory and not completely off the general schedule. Waking up a decent hour in the morning in her apartment in Bludhaven. With the current wintery months and season. There wasn't a lot of sunshine to wake up to… So no bathing out in the sun. After a light meal. Basically alone. As both men she more or less lived with were already out for the day, but that was ok. As the tamaranean had her own work scheduled. With a photo-shoot in the late morning and followed by a walk through for an up and coming runway show for the weekend… Kory paced herself well, but certainly was aiming to arrive a little earlier as always. You never know with this industry, so Kory always found arriving early was always good. Just to make sure. After a little cleaning in the kitchen. Putting dishes away and turned the machine on… A little vacuuming. Gathering up clothes along the way and put them in a basket by the washing machine. Saving that for when she got home. After all she wasn't sure she'd have time to take them out. Hang them. Tumble dry them or iron any that needed it. Hopped off to get ready. Nothing overly thought about, but hopefully nice enough for work. Slipping on a blue patterned dress, that fitted the body nicely. Came just about her knees and sleeves came about elbow length. So it offered a nicely little coverage from the wintery weather. Wore simple shoes. Simple earrings. Wrapped around a nice beige wintery coat. Hair tousling out red and Kory was ready to go work, work and work.

Leaving the apartment behind from her balcony. Kory flew to Gotham. With little to no one seeing. Let's just say it was high up enough and she was ultimately fast enough. So it wasn't long at all before the tamaranean reached the central section of Gotham and was early for her photo-shoot as a nice quaint studio. With a couple other models also on the job, but otherwise it was an intimate kind of setting. Hmmm, it was beauty shots today, so that didn't entirely require dressing up, but a little time in make-up. Unzipped her dress a little from her shoulders. Before she could really blink it seemed she was before the lens. Lights mildly flashing away. It wasn't long at all before they got the right shots they had wanted. By the looks she had finished much earlier than expected. Kory of course took a little time to stripe the make-up off before she had to go to her next job. Which she was heading to next, but made a short pip stop to a health bar. Got some juice squished, she'd mildly gotten to like the wheat grass Gar had introduced her to.. Though, she added a nicely sized blueberry muffin to go with it. Sparing a little time to sit and enjoy. She certainly had the extra time. Pulled up to a nice little booth facing the window to a park. Taking her coat off and carefully laid it on the table with her purse… Sipping on her Juice. Taking a couple nibbles from her muffin… That was when the vibrating and alarming sound came from her purse. Putting her items down and with free hands dug out her phone. Before she could even guess at who. The alarming message blared across her phone… Ra's al Ghul? In Gotham! That was an alarming news. As her eyes looked carefully around as if suddenly feeling slightly watched, but it was nothing. Updates to follow? Putting her phone quietly down. Sat back a little. Nibbling on her muffin. Felt the little thud in her chest. As her face read of the alarming concern. Debating whether to call Dick. She wanted to, but just incase another message would come through. Kory waited as the message had said… Soon enough, there was another call… More direct this time from Selina as Kory picked up the phone. Barely got the chance to say anything, but she really didn't have to. This certainly was far more than she had even began to imagine. A threat! As simply Kory said 'We'll be there. Don't worry', in response to picking a young girl named Charlotte. She'd not really met yet, but had heard of, but all Kory needed to know was that she was important and she was in danger. In need of protection.

Kory putting her food and drink in the bin. Grabbed her coat under her arm and bag over shoulder. With phone still in hand, she called Dick as she headed out of the door and back on the side walk. Though she stopped at the sound of his voice. By the sounds he was probably at work, but assured he had also gotten the alarm as well, perhaps not Selina's…

"Dick… Sweetheart! Selina called for us to pick up Charlotte and take her to the manor… I'm heading to the school now… Can I meet you there? I didn't bring wheels… I'll text you the address."

Kory relayed what had been requested. Asked. With the hint of alarm in her voice, but she was more than confident they'd take care of this. Mentioning she'd get to school on her own, so he could drive right there and not have to pick her up on the way. He'd know she meant she would fly there, but it would be better to take Charlotte from there by car. As she she didn't know those sides of them… Though rather than relay the address and to be sure. After she got off the phone with Dick, she quickly forwarded the address. She was sure and hoping he could get away from work. This was Dick, of course he'd find a way… Kory was soon up in the air, with little to no one seeing. Although to be honest she hadn't really checked… On her flight over the city. Kory made another call to her own work. She had almost forgotten her job and called to tell them she had an emergency. Thankfully upon her call, it had been postpone. Later that night, but most likely the next day or so, as some key people involved had their flights delayed by a blistered. So that defiantly lifted any of that off her shoulders. Leaving Kory to merely focus on finding Charlotte and getting her to safety. Then hopefully find out more what was actually happening. The league of shadows was certainly not something to snicker at.

There was certainly no time wasted in the sky above and soon after some careful looking of signs. Buildings. Kory knew she had found the school and landed pretty much unnoticed just around a corner and with a quick pace. Kory walked up the path. The steps. The entrance. Surprisingly it was quieter than she'd imagine, then it was probably class time. Kory couldn't say she'd been to many high schools nor that often. Having never attended herself, mostly because legally she couldn't and didn't need it, when she had the titans. More importantly Dick, showing her the world. Though on occasion she did visit Dick or Donna at school. Even Raven at one point. Though it was certainly a slightly different world, but one evidently filled with such youth and life. It was thriving. Even as Kory stepped inside she felt it. Though hardly anything other than finding Charlotte now was on her mind. The office? Kory looked around, Selina did mention she'd meet her at the office… Ah! Kory found a sign and the office. With knock on a door and soon entrance. She was met with a nice lady and asked if she was 'Miss Anders'.

"Oh, yes. Pleasure to meet you. I'm here to pick up, Charlotte…"

Kindly Kory responded as she was met with Gennifer. Not entirely sure if she was a teacher or what position she was in, but she seemed friendly enough. Though of course as Kory mentioned Charlotte, that was the importance. As her sunglass covered eyes looked around. Not even seconds after saying her name. She found her and also pointed out to her. Kindly thanking Gennifer with a smile. Before Kory motioned over to where Charlotte had taken a seat. Kory could only assume how much Charlotte knew about her or even remotely what she looked like. She was pretty much a stranger, coming to pick her up and take her else where. So she could understand if the young girl was potentially nervous of all of it.

"Hi, Charlotte! I'm sure Selina mentioned I'd be coming by… I'm Kory… I hope you don't mind waiting a little bit. Unfortunately, I didn't have a car with me, but Dick is on his way to pick us up. He shouldn't be long at all to take us to Wayne Manor… It's really nice to finally meet you… How are you feeling?"

Stopping a little before the young girl, but not to far. As Kory kindly greeted Charlotte, with the added sweetness in her voice and pleasantly friendly face. Mentioning Selina, just to be sure and to hopefully give some comfort as they hadn't met before. Reached out to potentially shake her hand… Kory thought about waiting outside, but knowing the level of danger was extreme. It was probably better to wait here. As Kory mentioned hoping not to discourage or concern Charlotte. Of course Kory was in all capabilities to protect her if something was to suddenly arise… Assured Charlotte that they would be leaving as shortly as Dick got there. Kory didn't entirely imagined he'd speed, but well, he'd certainly find a short cut… Was there a tunnel this far out? She couldn't really recall. Anyways as Kory did take a seat for the time being. It was really nice to finally meet Charlotte. Her skin was so young and beautiful as Selina has mentioned. Though as her covered eyes could study. Could look upon he girl in every caring way, there must be so much going through her head right now. About all of this. To which Kory kindly asked. Laying her coat over her lap with her bag. Caring. Concerned. Kory was certainly here to help and to protect.

---

Clothes:Dress!

[Dick Grayson - Nightwing]

Dick had been at the office during that time. Stuck behind a desk working on filing reports from arrests and fines alone he had to make in that one morning. Just another day of paper work that week for Officer Grayson.

It was during that time that his cell went off. A different tone against the office phones that were going off every once in a while about cases and crime going on in the city. It was a rather slow morning that day.

Dick answered it right away as a few heads turned his way at the knew sound attracting their attention. With ease and subtly, Dick walked away from the main office room where there were others seated working on case files as well.

Standing back in the hall, he didn't get much out beside a hello to Kory before she started to explain what was going on.

"Yeah, I can meet you there," Dick said.

It was then that Kory had rushed off it seemed.

It wasn't much longer that, Dick headed back to the locker area of the police department. Usually he would just go home, but seeing as he wouldn't have time, he always kept a spare set of clothes around.

He couldn't just take his squad car, luckily he had actually kept a hold of one of the more recent test drive cars. And he rather liking this silver SUV. It was great for off-roading. Sometimes it was nice being able to get your hands on different type of vehicles.

It was to his luck he had picked this one to drive to work today. Saved him a trip back to his place. And he could get to the location faster.

Checking out the address from the text, Dick knew of the location. He didn't need a GPS to find places in Gotham.

Hitting the road as soon as he could, it wouldn't take too long for him to get to the location.

He got there rather fast considering the distance from Bludhaven. What could he say, he liked to speed whether he had a reason or not.

Getting to the school, Dick parked the vehicle outside the wing where the offices were located. Walking into the building, it didn't take too long to find Kory.

"Got here as soon as I could," Dick said. He then looked to Charlotte. "You must be Charlotte. I'm Dick."

[Deleted]

As she watches the door to the office, in walks an overly orange woman with very large, extremely red, and excessively curly hair. And here Charlotte had thought that some of it had to have been some trick of the lighting in the picture she'd seen, but apparently Kory really does look like that. However, that throws Charlotte a lot less than it could have - Selina had explained that Kory was a model, and some models are rather eccentric with their appearance, so Charlotte chalks it all up to Kory just having an odd sense of style. And not even the oddest she's met lately - this private school caters to students who wish to specialize in the arts, whether the visual arts, the literary arts, or the performance arts, and some of the ideas of the design-oriented students are really weird. Of course, most seem content to experiment with their wardrobe rather than more directly on their skin, but she's sure that some of them would if they had the money to do so.

In any event, when Kory approaches, Charlotte's already looking at her as if she's halfway familiar - Selina didn't tell her much about the woman, but enough that she's not quite a stranger. "Yeah, Selina's shown me your picture before..." she replies as she shakes Kory's hand, about to stand up but then she stops herself when Kory mentions that they need to wait for Dick to bring a car. Huh, Kory must have taken a taxi here or something then. Well, if they're going to have to wait a little then she'll stay where she is - the chairs here are generously padded and rather comfortable.

Learning that she's going to be taken to Wayne Manor doesn't help ease her nerves at all, since it simply underlines to her the fact that she has no idea what's going on - but she's actually pretty calm in spite of that. Just a little bit visibly nervous, but certainly nowhere near freaking out. "Oh, I'm fine," Charlotte says easily, "I just don't know what's going on - all Selina told me is that you were coming to get me and that she's okay. Do you know what's going on?" Though the way things are going, she suspects that she's not going to find out anything until they get to Wayne Manor. Or at least until they're out of the school - if it's serious enough stuff she's willing to bet that Gennifer isn't supposed to know.

The next person to enter the office is also someone that Charlotte recognizes from a picture - the same one that Kory was in, actually. Knowing that he's definitely their ride, she stands as he approaches. "Yeah, Selina showed me your picture," she comments somewhat lamely, echoing what she'd said to Kory as she picks up her stuff. She's definitely ready to get out of here if only because that might increase the odds that whatever is happening will turn out fine if Selina is concerned enough to pull her out of class.

[Kory Anders - Starfire]

There had certainly been comfort when Kory did hear Dick's voice on the other side. It had been rushed. X'hal, she was rushing. There wasn't the time now for the regular small talk. The regular check up. Ok, ok. It more often went along the lines of 'What are you wearing?' or more 'what aren't you wearing?' Hmmm, certainly not time for that kind of distraction and either way she was probably gonna find out… Though there was a smile, even if Dick wasn't there to see it, when he said he'd be there. Kory knew the finer details. She knew enough. Selina. Her friend had asked a favour. Kory was not the kind to let a friend down nor ask questions that didn't need to be asked. Especially not now… As the tamaranean made the distance, barely stopping to feel the wintery chills. Her flesh was roaming a little more energy right now. Perhaps with a little extra purpose. Protection. After entering the school. The office. There she was. Charlotte. As Kory had kindly introduce herself. There was certainly some familiarity in the girl's eyes, but Kory could certainly read just as much uncertainty. Really about it all, Kory was certainly not new to any particular attention towards her appearance. Whether it be of admiration or even of distaste, it just wasn't new. On Tamaran she was looked at as royalty. On the Citadel she was looked at as a slave and on Earth, Kory was looked at as an alien or simply an outsider. Someone that perhaps just didn't fit. Though what Kory did see was youth. Life. The sweetness in Kory's smile grew as Charlotte spoke and also reached out her hand. Felt the the subtleness in her grip and mindful of course not to squeeze with might.

"Oh thats sweet and you are every bit as charming as Selina described and more…"

Said in response to Selina showing Charlotte a photo of Kory. One of many, Kory could only guess. Perhaps a little had been talked, Kory didn't mind in the least it would have all been for the better. Then again Kory wasn't usually very paranoid and she Selina was trustworthy as far as Kory had experienced. Offering another yet softer smile as Charlotte motioned to stand, but soon sits back down. Kory close beside her. Kory's covered eyes look over the young girl as she mentioned how charming she was or at the very least how Selina has described. Spoken with confidence, because Kory usually had a good hunch on meeting people. Well a lot of people, she gave them the benefit of the doubt. It was only fair and proper, right? Of course only just meeting Charlotte and assumed this wouldn't probably be the last. Kory sat in the comfy chair, but didn't completely sit back. There probably wouldn't be a long time here to chill and Kory was in protective mode as much as she could in the position she was in right now. As her gaze moved a little through the surrounding room, checking the door. Her phone, just incase, but mostly Kory's focus was on Charlotte. Keep her calm. Safe. Though Charlotte wasn't in ways freaking out or overly panicking. Kory could certainly sense the nerves. Most people would be. As she then spoke. Her questions that raised concern, were also rational. With a tiny look over Kory's eyes, she certainly wished she had all the answers. The truth was, she didn't. Not enough at least.

"I believe this was a precaution. I'm sure once we meet up with Selina, we'll know more. There be answers… I apologise, I wish I could make things clearer for you, but I can assure you have little need to worry. You have so many that love and care about you, Charlotte… I promise, no harm will come to you! Though something tells me you know a little something about being brave…"

That was honesty. Kory believed this was a precaution, to just make sure she was safe. Our of harms way and though Charlotte didn't know Kory for long or enough. Kory wasn't really one to make up something. To lie. In all honesty she wished she had all the answers, along with the way to make this right, but she believed whatever was being thrown at them. At Charlotte, she could protect her. They all could. As Kory assured once they got to the Manor. To safety. She assumed Selina would be meeting them and then there would be more answers. Least more than Kory knew. As she kindly shook her head and apologised. Even though she could not so much as remove her sunglasses and show she was in such a position to protect her, but even with out she could still speak of hope. Pointing out just what was also reality right now, that Charlotte knew there were people helping her, maybe not know why, but there had to be some comfort in the fact they cared. Perhaps promising all harm wouldn't come was a jinx in many ones eyes, but there was every ounce in Kory that knew how much she would fight for her. Even if as simply she looked to Charlotte with confidence, the girl didn't know her, but could hear the honesty then in her voice… Her last words could be open to interpretation, whether Kory knew exactly where Charlotte had come from or Kory could just simply sense Charlotte was a survivor in her own right. Perhaps even had to fight to protect herself. Call it a little one survivor to another. Perhaps, Kory hadn't been on the streets nor could she really guess how living on the street on Earth was even like, but Kory had been put in less then desirable conditions for a young child. A slave, to which she more often was kept isolated. Alone… In the end she fought for her freedom… She was here by her own power… Perhaps Kory was just grasping at straws or maybe there was something more there. As the tamaranean added a soft smile to the young girl. Perhaps there were conversations to come. Time to share.

"DICK!"

There had been a few moments sitting there with the teen. The subtleness, but then there was the voice that ultimately could almost cut a room in half, ok perhaps she was just genuinely happy to see him. As was expressed in her gleeful tone and turning her head. Perhaps through all her bravery, she felt a extra touch of safety. Plus of course he was the master at navigating through the human roads. Kory soon followed Charlotte to her feet. Kory could almost smirk that he had gotten here maybe not even ten minutes after her. Must of really put that gorgeous foot of his down. Naturally breaking the space not for a deep embrace, though that might be needed later. As Kory kissed him on the side of his mouth and attempted to lock arm, a little for the security. It was natural. Smiling softly as he introduced himself, it was always so cute. Even cuter as Kory watched Charlotte respond similar to what she had told her. Kory gave a very subtle sweet laugh, it was sweet as Kory's cheeks went a little more golden.

"He is a cutie from all angles… I had no idea Selina kept so many photos! This is the first I'm hearing of it!"

As brightly as Kory could add, in the most endearing way of course. Not that she was gonna go completely all couple like on Charlotte, but well they were what they were. Putting a hand lightly under Dick's chin as she mentioned the angles. Just a little soft teasing, but Kory was a little crazy about him in photo or out. Kory winked sweetly, before removing her hand. Before playfully acting as if she didn't know how Selina had photos of them. Although for all she knew Dick sent Selina photos as well. Yeah, she was really trying very hard to hide that lie she hadn't at some point. He'd see right through her. As she grinned innocently. Though this of course wasn't why they were here. They had a ride to catch now. As Charlotte then began to collect her things.

"Now, we must be going, we wouldn't want to keep Selina waiting any longer… Do you have everything you need, Charlotte?"

Stepped a little away from Dick, but dropped a hand into his. Before speaking up. There was certainly less reasons to linger here and more reasons to get on the road. As her tone expressed more to the serious side, but with the subtle yet natural kindness. Smiling softly and headed for the door. Halted momentarily not much after exiting the office, to check Charlotte had everything she needed. Kory didn't have the experience of school least on earth, but she knew there were books usually involved or any other object. They least had a little time for that, otherwise Kory motioned with Dick and Charlotte through the rather quiet hallway. Soon out the door. There was a little more alertness, because if there was danger targeted here, it could literally come from any direction now. Kory certainly stayed her calm… If a starbolt was absolutely needed now, then there be little choice, but with a little extra hold of Dick's hand. She was sure it was clear. Heading toward Dick's car… The SUV or as Roy put it the soccer mum's car. Thankfully he didn't put any extra nudge in that, because that might be a little soon, even for Kory, but she not being much of the car person, she was actually liking this car. Particularly the room and the backseats could go down for even more room. Which of course was helpful when they went for surfing trips, because they were such surfing gurus now. As Kory reached one of the doors to the backseat for Charlotte and soon made for the front passenger seat for herself.

"I'll just let Selina know we're on our way!"

Kory smiled as she said that out in general whether to Dick or Charlotte or both. Placing her coat over her lap and along with her bag. Before unzipping it and pulling out her phone. Rather than call, Kory just typed a short messaged, least enough to state Charlotte was with them now, safe and they should be there short. Of course if anything (though Kory doubted it would) was to happen along the way, Kory would certainly let Selina know.

---

Clothes:Dress!

[Dick Grayson - Nightwing]

"I wonder how she got the pictures," Dick commented.

He have a slight look in Kory's direction as she got close to him. She had entangled her arm with his as they stood there with the girl.

At Kory's hand to his jaw, he slightly turned his head away. A slight smile at her playing around.

When it came to what was going on, it seemed they were all in the dark. Dick hadn't gotten much detail on what was going on. And if he knew, he wasn't to say a word over it. Not out here. But in truth he was a bit in the dark over. And the kid seemed to be as well.

Dick followed Kory's lead as she had grabbed his hand now. He walked along with her til they got to the SUV. Regardless of what Roy said, it was just a better vehicle to travel in. He had his picks of cars. He still had a nice sports car and of course his motorcycle.

Though those were hardly the choice to be taking more than two people in to any where.

Dick offer to take Charlotte bag and place it in the back before he got into the driver's side. It was then that he started the vehicle a and pulled away from the school.

"Seems we'll all be finding out as soon as we get to the Manor," Dick commented as he drove through the city.

It wouldn't take him long to get out of the city. It was light traffic for this hour of the day.

[Deleted]

Hearing that Selina had called her charming causes Charlotte to give a neutral, "Uh-huh." She can be charming, if she wants to, though right now she's certainly not in the mood to be trying so she can only assume that Kory has simply decided that she's charming for no reason. Whatever.

As Kory reassures her that all of this is a precaution, Charlotte lets herself be somewhat comforted by that. No, that's not enough to completely calm her nerves, which will probably be a little bit on edge until Selina tells her that everything is okay, but at least it's something. Though as Kory continues by telling her about all the care and concern everyone has over her, Charlottes lips purse and she looks away, wrapping her arms around herself as if she's become very uncomfortable. Saying nothing in response, instead looking at the door and just waiting for Dick to appear.

It doesn't seem like very long until he does, and Charlotte is all too happy to have something to do other than sit there with Kory now. She ignores the annoying couple stuff and their wonderings about the picture, and instead concentrates on gathering her stuff. Which only takes a couple of seconds since she just needs to put her backpack over her shoulder and scoop up the stack of things she'd had with her in algebra class in one arm. So when Kory asks, Charlotte's already ready to go and just says, "Yep."

Following them out of the building and to the SUV, Charlotte is quick to shake her head when Dick offers to take her bag, "Nah, I'll keep it with me." Instead she puts it on the seat next to her as she gets inside. After fastening her seatbelt, she stews within herself for a moment before she pulls out her cellphone and writes a text message to Selina.

You trust these guys?

Though after a moment or two she thinks better of sending it and deletes it instead - she has no idea what's happening with Selina and for all she knows that would be misinterpreted and cause further concern. It's not really that she doesn't trust them, anyway - she's simply finding them unpleasant. Well, one of them - Dick hasn't really said or done much, though he's definitely guilty by association. After pondering that for a few moments, she types up a new one.

Kory is worse than Maureen.

Yeah, that's the appropriate complaint for this situation. She hits 'send' and puts her phone back in her pocket, not knowing whether Selina will respond or not since she has no idea what the woman is up to, but happier knowing that at some point her griping will probably at least be noted.

[Kory Anders - Starfire]

There certainly had been the touch of silence. Maybe even the uncomfortable silence in the waiting chairs. As the girl Kory had met, seems far more in her shell than Kory had first realised and Selina may have mentioned. There probably really wasn't any right words to give. Kory had hoped to give some level of ease. Maybe a hint of understanding, but sometimes there is no words. Maybe it was down to the messenger. Though truly wouldn't nor could she take back what she had said. For she hardly was someone to say something that she didn't believe it was true in her heart. Calmly Kory sat then beside her newly met friend, maybe they weren't there yet and maybe even further from it now. It didn't undermine Kory did care. Smiling softly, whilst eyes played not to heavy on the girl.

"I'm sorry this is happening!"

Calmly and kindly the tamaranean said. Whether or not it would fall on def ears. It was there. Through this possible chaos. The confusion, it must truly be a lot. Though there hadn't been a long wait. Too length in the uncomfortable silence for Charlotte. As soon as Kory could even hope, in came Dick. The familiar face! Naturally to standing and greeting. Breaking the distance. She was happy to see him. To have him with her. The extra notch in the security and the touch of home. Met his gaze, she blushed slightly. Maybe she had over sold it a little. Though smiled with an extra playful smirk at his response. Added innocence in her eyes. It wasn't like she hadn't been honest with him, just perhaps forgot to mention… With in his tone, his own lightness, she knew she was already forgiven. Although she was sure Selina didn't showcase all the photos to Bruce, but they really were all tame to the T… Maybe a little random shots of Dick's surfer back. With the look. Smile. Charlotte was certainly under good protection now. Even if she didn't believe it… Then the tamaranean had offered to lead them to the getaway car. An added kind smile as Charlotte was sure she had everything. Perfect… They could continue on… Wasn't long at all before they met the car. Charlotte took the backseat, Kory took the front passenger and Dick took the driver's seat.

"Done… You don't know either? Did Bruce contact you?"

Kory softly remarked as the mail shipped from her phone and on towards Selina's. Offering a sweet smile and happy to know they wouldn't be long. They were already in the north, so it shouldn't be far as all… Though Kory's smile sort of stopped at Dick's comment… She thought surely he'd know more… With the faint concern between her eyes as she looked to Dick from her side of the car. The seat hid most, save probably some outline of her hair. Putting her phone back in her bag, before she curiously asked had Bruce contacted him, of course her voice played casual to it, but if he'd gotten the signal as she had, then Dick would know what she meant. Kory certainly didn't want to bring up Ra's or any of the sort right now, but well they really hadn't talked save momentarily on the phone. Her eye line moved as her golden hands motioned over her shoulder and placed the seatbelt across her waist. With soon that familiar click… Her gaze caught the window, but nothing particular, before turning back to Dick. Attempting perhaps small talk.

"How was work? Did you get away ok?"

Genuinely Kory was also curious as she asked Dick. Caring of course, because she knew how this line of work can build up, least from what Dick told her and seen on a couple of visits. It wasn't uncommon for the drives in the car. Despite the concerns right now, it usually was very peaceful. Often just short, but on occasion it could be longer. With the SUV, they could defiantly go places. Do a road trip. Do some camping. It was really endless… Resting her head softly back in the chair. Her hand fiddled at the radio, not to pump up the volume and jam, but just tweaked it. So there be some background music. Before checking the thermostat system. She of course wasn't overly immune to the cold, so she guessed.

"Are you ok in the back, Charlotte? Is it warm enough?"

Kory kindly asked Charlotte, as she slightly turned her head and offered a glance to the young girl. A smile. Making sure she was comfortable and warm enough. Perhaps there was anything she needed, although probably everything would be waiting for them at the manor, but Kory certainly would be rude not to ask. Feeling the rumbling of the car, it was a more calming sound than the sports car he had kept. Kory certainly loved the roar. The speed, but it was sometimes nice for the more calming drive. Naturally at this point her hand fell somewhere in between for his or perhaps rest on his leg. Nothing more for now. Watching the houses pass them by. It really was a pretty area, she had flown by a lot, but there always seemed to be a detail she had missed. Of course Bludhaven was home, as much as she hadn't expected to say that when she had returned. How things change when she had arrived on the all familiar doorstep!

---

Clothes:Dress!

[Dick Grayson - Nightwing]

"Alright," Dick said in response to the girl wanting to keep her bag.

He was only being polite. And it seemed the kid was a bit in distress. Not trusting them all that much. He didn't blame her, she was being picked up by two strangers and forced to take cover at a new location.

"You know how he is. Does a lot, but says very little," Dick responded to Kory.

He continued to keep his focus on the road ahead. There were still quite a few cars on the roads they traveled as he headed for the main road that would lead them out of the city and to the North end of town.

"It was alright. A lot of paper work today though. They didn't seem to notice. There was a bit of action this morning. But with it slowing down, they won't miss me the rest of the day. I just took off a few hours earlier than planned," Dick commented.

He was easily shrugging off the subject. He did like his job as a police officer, but today had been going slow besides the early morning crimes.

Wayne Manor was within their sights as they drove out into the open space of the rolling landscape where the Gotham Elite lived.

They were finally out of the city within a few few minutes. The traffic had crowded and lessened as they traveled.

Dick kept a stead pace and it would be too much longer.

"Sorry about all this chaos, Charlotte. Gotham has a way of keeping you on your toes. Have you lived in Gotham all your life," Dick asked.

He was just trying to make small conversation with the girl. He knew so little of her. Bruce hadn't said anything about Selina taking in a kid. And Selina had never made mention of it any time he had seen her. Well that was if she had done so before their join up against the Scarecrow.

Dick looked over to Kory, shooting her a glance that said not to say much on the subject of Bruce. He wasn't even sure if Charlotte knew anything about any of them. And he sure hoped not. If Selina had said something about his identity to the kid, he'd seriously start rethinking the current situation between them.

As for Bruce, as well as he knew him, he doubted Bruce had outed their identities to the young girl. You couldn't trust everyone.

[Deleted]

Just because Charlotte doesn't respond to something doesn't mean that she isn't listening. Because sometimes there just isn't anything to say, and sometimes there is but she doesn't feel like saying it. Though to her the silence isn't any more uncomfortable than having it being interrupted by talking. Actually, in certain situations the silence is actually more welcome than words.

In the SUV, Charlotte appears to be watching the city pass by rather than paying any attention to anything else, but she's also idly listening to the other two talk. Mostly because it's simply something to help occupy her thoughts instead of anything she cares about, because when the two confer and find out that neither of them know anything much about what's going on either that kills almost any chance that they'll say anything that she'd find all that interesting.

Though when Kory asks her a question, she proves that she's listening by saying, "It's fine." She actually has a very wide range of temperature tolerance, having had to learn to make do with whatever weather happened to come during her time on the street, and that doesn't seem to have worn off at all even though that's no longer her situation. Kory would have to try pretty hard before she'd find a temperature that Charlotte would complain about.

Silence - the kind that Charlotte won't complain about at all - overtakes the car as they leave the tightly packed buildings with their busy streets behind and head into that spot just north of the city proper where all the mansions are. She knows where they are, but she can't recall coming here before - there was never any reason to. Some people coming here for the first time would be in awe of the large estates that they're passing, but if anything Charlotte finds such an open display of wealth to be disgusting and even pathetic. Seriously, who in their right mind needs a house that size? How could they possibly justify it? Though she keeps those thoughts to herself - after all, she's betting that Wayne Manor is going to end up being the worst of the bunch.

Though her musings are interrupted by Dick's question, and there's a pause before she says, "Yeah, I was born and grew up in Gotham - in the east part." In one of the somewhat safer bits of that part of the city, but still there's no need to tell her what Gotham's like - she's seen it. She's fortunate enough to have avoided participating in the chaos for the most part, unless you count all the shoplifting (she doesn't), but she's far from being some sheltered kid who doesn't know what's out there. In fact, since she has no idea who she's in the car with, aside from the fact that it's some cop from Blüdhaven who is sort of like a son to Bruce Wayne and his model girlfriend, she's under the impression that she's the one here that knows the most about how Gotham 'keeps you on your toes'.

[Kory Anders - Starfire]

It didn't take long to get in the comfy seat. There certainly was the thoughts running through the tamaranean's head, what actually this was all about. Why Ra's? Why Charlotte? Her green eyes passed over Dick as he loosely responded to her. With an added raise of her brow at him, he didn't exactly tell her something she didn't already know, but from what she took from it. That was yes. He got the vague signal she had. At least knowing there was extreme alert. Danger in other words. Though kept straight. Simple. Kory felt Dick's confusion. Perhaps even a touch of frustration. Kory simply nodded, not in ways to take Dick's eyes off the road, there was a little firmness in her touch from her hand…

"Yeah, I know."

Kory added simply. Knew well enough, it wasn't like she had really sat down and had drawn out conversations with Bruce. Perhaps there maybe a chance in the future, but who really knew… Her gaze moved casually through the car, to outside, but evidently fell upon Dick again. Listened and enjoyed hearing about his day at work. Having visited his work place on a couple of occasions. It was easy to visualise it. Particularly his desk. Set with a nice little window view. Of then, sitting upon his desk, he was the view. Nodded as Kory happily listened. Though looked at him funny when he said no one would notice. She couldn't really imagine not noticing him. Smiled at the action. Different action, of course.

"Oh that is pleasant to hear. Knowing how it can build up, a slow day is probably well deserved… Have you heard from Phil? I talked to George last friday, he said he was about to start his therapy and thanked for the flowers. I think it was just the pop of colour he needed… Oh, and I spoke to Janet this morning. Apparently there is a game this weekend? We might check out the new cafe just around the block from us, you should have the place to do the 'guy' thing, if you need it. Though I wanted to check with you, before I said yes."

Responded happily, it was pleasant in the sense there was a lot of work over lapping, as she knew it certainly could. Which to be topped with everything else in their lives, was a lot to take… Now Dick had been at this job for a good while now, weeks, maybe a couple months. Enough time for Kory to get some intel on his co-workers. As much as Dick probably needed, but Kory liked people. Which led to Kory asking about Phil, a cop that had been injured in the recent weeks and just checking if Dick had heard any more news on his recovery. It was last friday she had spoken to his boyfriend, they were such a friendly couple and certainly had appreciated the flowers Kory had sent. Smiling softly before a mild pause, before recalling the call earlier this morning from a girlfriend of another cop at Dick's work, they had just began to get to know. Even more compelling. They lived a couple floors below them. Suggesting a game, the boys were perhaps setting up to watch on the weekend at lunchtime. Thus Kory toned it with a question, not that she minded Dick hadn't told her. These kinda things naturally spring up, even though more often or not they have to sadly postpone them. Guess evil doesn't wait for them.

"I was lucky too, Dick. We wrapped up the photo shoot, rather easily and the show that was later by the sounds of the weather, has been postponed…"

Kory casually and of course happily mentioned her wrapping ups at her own work. Certainly it wasn't nearing the hard work that Dick did as a cop, but it did somewhat help fill out her day. Not that postponed probably meant good to the fashion gurus, but that seemingly was easier than, calling them up n telling them you can't come in. Thankfully Kory being as kind as she was, didn't get to much heat from it and of course never not showed up without previously mentioning it before time… The weather really could get crazy around these months, not just in Gotham. Though there was snow in New York, it oddly was quite different. Gotham was beautiful, but it could be dark… Now, it was mostly cloudy and white. Frosty no doubt. As Kory had pushed up the heat button and checked Charlotte was warm enough.

"Perfect!"

Kory said simply and kindly in response to Charlotte. They weren't far from the destination, but one could never know ones comfort… To which Kory left the buttons alone and brought her hand back to her lap. Enjoyed the rest of the comfortable ride. Natural one would peak at the elite houses as they floated on by the window. Even through frosty weather, one could make out lavish big houses. Rows of windows with real shutters. Some certainly had that pretty dream quality to them, some were over the top. Most if not all, had the chimneys going, puffing out the warm smoke. Kory could smell the burning wood. Ah, comfort. Smiled, though mildly gazed upon a house that was by the looks. Getting moved in. By the looks of a few delivery trucks. One could only wonder who had moved in. Not that Kory was overly nosy, but hey…

"You know I did hear a rumour at work, that Prince was maybe going to buy a house in Gotham… You don't think? Do you think he'd take requests?"

Green eyes escaped momentarily to Dick as Kory brought up what she had heard from a make-up artist at work and had worked previously for Prince. Of course it probably was just a rumour, but still. As Kory pointed back to the house and looked in possible wonder. That could be pretty cool. Then again, from what she had heard, he wasn't so forth coming about playing his older music, but maybe that was just a rumour as well. Who really knew? As Kory kindly shrugged and mildly interested. Sitting back in her chair. Thinking up Prince songs in her head, she flicked through the cd stacker n landed on 'kiss' and randomly smiled. Made kissing sounds, as the song played, not loudly, still mostly just background music. Giggled shortly. She had a soft spot for that song. Relaxed more comfortably. As her eyes moved to Dick. To the mild conversation with Charlotte, whilst awaiting for the destination.

"How are you liking school, Charlotte? I was home schooled, I'm always curious to know what it is like."

With kindness and curiosity in Kory's tone, she asked Charlotte. Of course not demanding it, if this was somewhat of a no zone kinda thing. Her green eyes mildly looked to Dick as she said 'home schooled' that wasn't so much of a lie, given there wasn't exactly a schooling system on Tamaran like there was on Earth, even if some like to assume Kory wasn't educated, she was educated as any tamaranean princess should be. Especially one that had expected to one day rule it. Of course a lot of the school was also training to be a warrior and then spent more years as a slave. One could say she never really did the prom thing, if there was even something like it on Tamaran. Not that it was something she greatly wanted. She was mostly just curious… There was a look now. As Kory caught Dick glancing at her… He was clearly telling her not to do something. Say something. Although that could be any number of things, but naturally she would be vague in general. Wasn't like she couldn't find other things to talk about other than Bruce.

---

Clothes:Dress!

[Dick Grayson - Nightwing]

"We'll have to see about the game. I have a lot of work to catch up on this weekend. As for the cafe, there might be a chance we could get some time in and check it out," Dick replied.

He knew Kory was going off the top of her head on this. Maybe a bit in code as well. Considering they did have other work beside their day lives or patrolling. He'd consider these things later.

"I'm glad the shoot went well. I can't wait to see the edits when you get them back," he said.

He knew how much Kory enjoyed modeling. One part she seemed to enjoy was when he went along with her on a day off. Or reviewing the photos that come back from the photographers for her to keep in her portfolio.

Kory always looked stunning to him. He enjoyed spending the small amount of time with her looking over the edits to help her chose which one should be used to try and get the next appointments she needed. Then again...she usually didn't have any problems getting bookings.

"Sure it's not just more gossip from the rumor mill the tabloids are trying to build a story for the week," Dick asked Kory.

At this point he was just supporting her conversation. Though he was slight disinterested in the common take over gossip of Gotham. He didn't mind talking about her job since he liked to know how her day went.

But today was a little off. Considering they had a guest in the car they had to keep quiet around. Not that they didn't do this every day in public already. Though Kory seemed to be striking up conversation to keep a buzz going in the car for the kid.

Dick was getting the feeling that Charlotte wasn't enjoying this at all. As a matter of fact, he was sure of it.

The fact that she had sent a text and was looking off to the distance helped back it up. Not to mention the disinterest in the subjects of conversation.

"So you're staying with Selina. Has she been getting you into activities with the school," Dick asked.

Once again, he was making small talk. Somewhat going along with the conversation subject Kory was leading.

[Deleted]

As the other two talk a bit about their respective jobs, Charlotte finds herself tuning it all out - people and other things she doesn't know or care anything about. Instead she's silently wondering to herself about all the questions that can't be answered right now, like what's going on, where Selina is, and how long it will be until she can see her.

Though her attention is readily grabbed again when she hears Kory say her name, though since she doesn't really feel like elaborating on her answer, she just shrugs and states, "It's school." Homework, teachers, tests, a few other students who may soon be friends... does she really need to say more when all of that is pretty much the same everywhere? Well, if Kory was home-schooled maybe that two word description isn't enough, but that's about all the answer she wants to give.

It takes her a bit longer to figure out how to answer Dick's question, mostly because she's not sure what exactly he's asking. "Um, sort of? I'm going to that school because I'm getting into gymnastics and they have a program," she explains, as that's pretty much the part of it that seems to be anything special.

Technically she's in a gymnastics class and is supposedly learning it from the teachers there, but really she's learning far more from Selina after school while the class she's taking is more of an opportunity to get in some extra practice during school hours and get P.E. credit for it. The school is especially accommodating for students who wish to work more independently, so no eyebrows are raised if she wanders away from the rest of the class to work on something Selina taught her instead - just so long as she's clearly doing gymnastics during gymnastics class. Especially since she seems to be outpacing her classmates.

[Kory Anders - Starfire]

There was a half smile in response to Dick's words. The tinge of hope, least it was something. The game of course was for the boys, so that was up to them, though it certainly sounded like fun and Kory knew he couldn't just have time with her. Any little chance he could get, even if he still felt less deserving of it, but lets face it would prevent heads popping off. Though it was a lesser thing, with all the things that could suddenly happen and most likely would. You really could only hope and do when you were able. Though an hour, maybe two, She was sure he could relax for a couple of hours with his mates… Kory giggled a little when Dick responded to checking out the cafe, maybe he missed the point that it was going to be a girls thing, but in all honesty Kory would be just as eager to check out the cafe with Dick as well. If they were gonna live in Bludhaven, they might as well enjoy it.

"If you do find time for it, might be a nice break in between the work… I might go to the store just incase you need food, if there is no game, we can just I don't know… Call for a picnic? Not ideal weather, inside picnic? Or is that a feast? I think Janet was hoping for the girl talk, but I would love to check the cafe out with you…. That might be pleasant… Who knows maybe it'll become a regular. Like in Friends… You know what, I did see couches in the window."

Kory responded in kind to Dick, well she suggested it might be nice in between his work, if of course he did manage it. Not trying to put pressure on him or it, it really was up to him if he wanted to or not. Kory knew it was hard to balance the downtime he did get to just want to chill and to socialise. So Kory understood. With it up in the air, Kory assured she could go to the store and pick up a couple things. In case he did, if not then, well as Kory smiled, they could find another use for it. Randomly springing out the picnic idea as her green eyes fell upon him. Kory did like picnics, though looking outside, it probably less of a wintery thing to do.. Inside, she questioned in ways she was assured she hadn't completely confused herself. Nonetheless, she was resourceful… Though her lady friend from the call suggested girl time, whilst there was boy time. Kory as she kindly added, would be more than happy to check out the cafe with Dick. Who was she to turn down any form of a date with her man? Nope, she defiantly wouldn't. Least Kory was somewhat informed enough to somewhat reference friends correctly. Suggesting Dick and Kory, could find their little hang out place… Apart from her place of course.

"Oh defiantly, it went smoothly and quickly. It was not maybe 20 minutes after when I got the call from Selina. So it certainly all worked out rather well with the time, which was even better… I'll get a couple edits maybe, more likely later, given the hush hush on the campaign, but I'm sure I'll get something I can show you… From the sounds of the scope, you might see one on a huge board thing."

There was excitement in her voice enough as Kory responded to Dick's comments of her choice of work. It wasn't maybe as impressive, but she did enjoy it. Perhaps half coming down that it was easy for her and meeting people. Seeing places. Occasionally days could be long on a shoot, for what ever the reason, but today had certainly gone to plan, even a little ahead of it. As Kory added and explained. Smiled at Dick wanting to see her edits, but that somewhat depended on the shoot. Often she would get something back, usually would go into her portfolio, but this perhaps maybe a little more exclusive. So Kory couldn't be entirely sure, but she was sure at some point she'd get something she could show him… Expressed with her hands a big board, she of course meant a billboard, not that she entirely knew what it meant other than a bigger image. Well, possibly of her, there were other models in the gig and no one had exactly been picked, from what Kory knew. Although as she sat back, she could amusingly imagine Batman coming across a large image of her in Gotham… Wouldn't that be a treat, giggling to herself.

"Ah, Tabloids! You know I only like hearing the truth and those… They are hardly ever truthful… Though these rumours true or not… Its Prince."

With the frantic shake of her fiery head as she remarked how she felt about the 'tabloids', perhaps sometimes they were truth, but more often they were not. As she knew. As Dick knew personally. Kory didn't exactly read them, maybe glance at the covers in the stores. Its crazy what sells magazines now days. It is usually some form of negativity… But, occasionally she did hear rumours at work. Usually they were just that and Kory hardly thought twice. Least until now as they drove past the house and as Kory stated. Whether it was true or not. It was Prince. Staying comfy in her seat, but had attempted to keep some conversation for Charlotte. Hopefully they could get to know their passenger a little better. Although the answer relating to how she was liking school, held with minimum detail, but Kory took it in its stride. After all by the sounds she hadn't been going there for a long time, sometimes for humans things take time to grow and to know how much you really like something. Then perhaps it was just school, similar to all the rest. Something Kory knew a little from friends, but just not personally. Kory kindly nodded, would have spoken, but Dick added. Seemed he knew the questions to ask. At Charlotte's answer, her ears perked up.

"Oh wow! I do love gymnastics!… Isn't that sort of what you did Dick? I'm sure Selina mentioned, Dick was in the circus…!"

A smile also greatly perked up. Kory certainly did love gymnastics, her covered green eyes moved from Charlotte to Dick with a sweet smile. Knowing thats sort of what he did, least she knew it all detailed in the bendy. Flexy stuff. Which of course Kory was always more than thrilled to watch and even more so enjoy it. Kory couldn't say it had been great part of her training, but then she could actually fly. She was flexible enough, but she certainly got tips on occasion more than likely. Though least it seemed Charlotte and Dick shared similar thing in common. Before Kory mentioned, though she was sure Charlotte had been told, Dick was in the circus… She was sure that was an open thing to say, given he was part of the Flying Graysons, it was public knowledge still as far as Kory was aware and proudly. Of course he had come much further than that and had done even more with it all. Not that Dick needed Kory to talk him up. He was admirable simply from the way he was… Oh, by the looks they were approaching the gates of the manor.

---

Clothes:Dress!