Metropham Gala: Indecent Proposal

[Deleted]

[Phase III]
[Phase III is upon us, folks! This section will be mostly written by Lex and myself, with the help of yourselves by giving us pre-written information. At the end of the bidding auction, then we will have reactions written out, and then the musical venue to celebrate! As always, if you have questions, let me know.


A note: those who win will have a separate 'date' thread scene set, by Lex, or myself for you, and your winning bid. Eg, if Selina bids and wins Summer, they would have a thread set up, on whatever their date would be. Lex or myself will alert the participants when said thread goes up, and where it will be, via PM. Expect the unexpected!]

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“I’ve come to understand that at this moment the Gala is trending on social media sites, with the current trending tag being-” he looked down at his phone for a moment “#Metropants... for that we must thank Mr. Wayne and his active presence, and of course the assembled guests tonight.“ He smiled as he looked up at the crowd “The crème de la crème of Gotham’s elite, the celebrities, civil servants, philanthropists, investors, inventors and social shapers. The eyes of Gotham, and indeed, the entire nation, if not the World, are on us tonight. . . a heady pressure of expectations and anticipation.” He clapped his hands together stepping forward on the stage, a measured force of gravitas, his face fully serious. “In consideration of the importance of those who have come here tonight, and in respect for what we’re trying to accomplish: we’re going to call the great luminaries of Gotham and Metropolis to the stage, ask them embarrassing questions and then sell them to the highest bidder. The Metropham Foundation proudly presents the first Celebrity Auction! A winning bid will get you one of these fine luminaries for one date as provided by LexCorp, and the assembled partners of the Metropham Foundation.” 

“The proceeds of these sales all go directly into the Metropham Foundation, and applied directly towards the implementation of plans meant for civic improvement and for crime fighting. So don’t be shy, people. To bid, each of you have a small device with which you can enter your bid, to announce for this auction allow me to introduce ‘The Auctioneer.’ Are you there?” A female voice, calm and inhuman. “I’m here, Mr. Luthor, and ready” He grins as he says “Excellent. And ladies and gentlemen, remember, this is for Charity, so let’s get the bids high.”


"And to start things off, the bidding will start on myself."  

Selina smiled as she says “I suppose I’ll start by asking you the questions then, Lex.”

Lex nodded as he said “Ask away, I’m an open book, Selina.”

“What is your favorite word?” Selina genuinely looked engaged in this part of the question process, there was a shimmer as her dress shifted colors to green and purple in the light.

“Surpass. It’s my philosophy.” Lex appeared smug at this point, it was a practiced answer, and why wouldn’t it be? It was his show, he helped put together these questions.

“What turns you on creatively, spiritually or emotionally?

“Transcending limitations” The answer was simple, there was no elaboration

Selina continues “And what turns you off?”

“Those who use excuses as shelter for their failings.”

Selina nods at that, it was really to be expected. “What sound or noise do you love?”

“I love the sound of a city waking up. People going about their lives, a well-oiled society moving in unison, conflicting with itself, all of the wonders of the ecosystem of human ingenuity. ”

“What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?“ 

Lex laughed at the question, perfectly practiced, it was almost humanizing. “I’m not sure what that would be. I suppose I could enjoy politics. Maybe try to be president.”

Selina smiled and said “We open the bids at 1000.”

The bids started almost instantly, Elise Noble bid, the voice read out “1000.”

Diana of Themyscira smiled and nodded once “1500.”

A voice rang out, “2000, to Aria Lloyd!”

“5000 to Elise Noble.” there was scattered applause at this.

“10000 to Aria Lloyd.” More surprises as the auctioneer's voice read out a higher bid.

Rooster then shouted out from the audience “Hell with it! One million! Anyone got a problem with that?”

“One million to Mizz Stone.” Silence for a moment, “Sold to Mizz Stone”

Rooster glided over to the stage. She was the very vision of grace and style. She got up the steps after moving over from her table and smiled to everyone. She gave a wink to someone out at their table and turned to the other two, she took Selina's hands and pressed her cheek again't Selina's, saying something into it. Right after she offered her hand to Lex and had a demure smile splayed across her lips for him. The alcohol he provided her earlier as a gift did it's job. She was still graceful, but the alcohol showed the moment she spoke.

"Alright, ch'mon all y'all! Ain't ever seen livestock this foxy, have ya? Ha!"


Lex smiled as he looked out to the crowd, “Well, with that taken care of, come on up here. It’s your turn next. Entrepreneur, law-woman, hero, adventurer, renaissance woman: Our next person is an adventure in boots, wild west Texan, and scholar. Rooster Stone.”




Lex was getting into the rhythm of the evening, he smiled at her for a bit saying “Well, you won.”

Rooster raised an eyebrow “Was there ever a question of that?”

Lex shook his head “I don’t know, I wondered if Bruce Wayne would try to outbid you.”

Rooster laughed at that.

Lex Luthor nodded and then asked “What turns you on creatively, spiritually or emotionally?”

Rooster responded quickly “Gunpowder and good lookin' men.” Then winked at Lex. . . or blinked . . . hard to tell with the eyepatch.

Lex smiles at that, then says “And what turns you off?”

She scoffs and then says “Disrespect and laziness.”

Lex smiled, there was a quiet sort of tension between them, amusement perhaps, the bait of the back and forth. She was enjoying the spotlight, and frankly so was he. “What sound or noise do you hate?”

She cocked her head slightly and said “An out of tune instrument”

Lex nodded at that, then asked “Then, what sound or noise do you love?”

She looks at him in the eyes again “A bated breath.”

Lex straightens his tie and stares out into the crowd. “I can’t think of anything better than that, bidding starts at-“

“One thousand for Cobblepot” The voice of the auctioneer reads out calmly. Lex Luthor looks up surprised.

Selina starts to laugh at that and calls out “3 thousand”

Lex looks up, and not to be out done “Ten thousand.” he looks at Rooster, eye to eye.

Cobblepot smirked and said “Fifteen thousand.”

“Certainly you know I’m worth more than that.” Rooster looked at Lex, and then posed on stage again.

Lex Luthor smiled and put in his bid.

“One million dollars, Lex Luthor. . . “ He looks over the crowd. “Sold.”

Lex looked at Rooster for a minute and winked “Said you looked like a million bucks.”

[Deleted]

Asian and perfectly toned, dressed in far too tight a combination of leotard and sequins, they dressed light with sashes barely covering all that should be covered. They were alluring, they were muscular in the way that Selina was in her more active times, women used to moving and defying gravity.

Bullock would have recognized them from hovering over the room, moving from sash to rope and flying over the crowd. When they stood in front of him and smiled, it was hard to resist, especially when the brunette Thai one grabbed Bullock’s tie and giggled, and when the other brunette one grabbed his arm to pull him aside “Mister Bullock, please. . . come with us. We have been sent by Ms. Head to . . . help you get ready. Don’t resist.” Suddenly one had a gun out, pointed into the small of his back. Where she was hiding it, was hard to say “She said you might need. . . persuading.” The hand on Bullock’s arm gripped like a vice, the smile never left their faces. He was pulled aside into a room, and there was a click of a door locking. The two women, stared at him and said “Please, undress. Do not make it difficult.” The gun was out, the other one seemed to have a handful of throwing knives. Armed security? Or kidnapping? No, there was a tuxedo hanging up. The women’s faces were impassive, he was in a bind. . . his suit . . . or his life.

In a corner of the room was another figure. Quiet, contemplative. With some of the same features as the two women, but shifting. Ms. Head was there to make sure the brightly clad man would have no issues in changing. Not that she did't trust her girls, it was just that it was always rather pleasant to have another set of hands in case. A small smile crept to her lips at the thought. There was never a 'just in case' with her. "It should be satisfactory, Harvey. Custom made." A small shift of her head was inclined to the garment bag and pair of shoes.

[Deleted]

Initially, Harvey was more than delighted to have the attention of lovely ladies paid to him. Just because he may have been seeing someone didn't mean he didn't like girls fussing with him.

In fact, he loved it, until there was a gun at his back.

Harvey, unsure of himself, and not wanting to bring any harm to others, went with them, his face no longer delighted, but very not happy at this.

Once they all got to the room the ladies brought him to he raised his brows at them.

"What? You want me to... undress?"

Harvey didn't know what to make of this. They need what I got?

Then another woman came in and she was gesturing to another set of clothes for him. Now he looked rather angry.

"Wait, is this-"

One of the girls stepped toward him like she might do something.

"FINE! GAH!"

Harvey pulled off his jacket. He eyed the women contemptuously the entire time he undressed. And he made sure to take much longer than he should have to get changed.

"Yeah, keep watchin' ya dirty birds. I want you to remember all of this."

[Deleted]

Of the three, Talia averted her eyes as he took his time to disrobe and change. With much bellowing he finally changed, and she stood, adjusting his collar delicately before she reached up to pat him on the cheek. She then left the room, the two women falling behind Harvey as the escorted him back to his table.

[Deleted]

"Selina, you look amazing tonight," Bruce said with a cocky grin as he came up on stage, leaving Diana behind. He usually would have leaned towards a lewd comment, but with Selina the Bruce Wayne persona crumbled quickly. Better to compliment her and move on rather than risk her ire and an argument.

"Lex," Bruce said more stiffly. "Quite a party you threw here." He didn't like his business rival, and Batman didn't like him much either. Having Lex in the city had set Bruce off, and he had spent some time investigating his business interests. So far he hadn't found anything other than an honest drive for profit, but he knew there was something at the bottom of it all.

Then he turned towards the stage and waved to the audience, pulling out his phone and snapping a picture of them that he could send out on his twitter account. He grinned again as people laughed and stood with the rest of the auction candidates.

Selina Kyle looked at Bruce as he approached. “So, Mr. Wayne. Good of you to join us.”

Bruce smiled as he said “I wouldn’t miss your party for the world, Selina.”

Selina nodded as she looked at his table “And you brought quite the date.”

Bruce looked offhandedly at the table “Her? Well, how can I resist coming here with the world’s most pre-eminent Amazon on my arm? I’m doing my bit for international relations.”

“And how are international relations?” He seemed to be keeping it rather quiet his 'date' had been a blind one set up by herself. Her eyes twinkled at the omission.

“Warming. And how are business relations?” Eye contact was made, Bruce stared into Selina’s eyes, she rolled hers and then Lex smiled as he spoke up; “Closer than ever, Mr. Wayne.” Selina spoke up saying “So, how would you describe the perfect date, Mr. Wayne?”

Bruce smiled, the practiced ease of a man used to the spotlight pervaded through every timbre of his voice as he said “My yacht out in the ocean, away from the reporters, the suits, and the city. Me, you, a bottle of champagne and the oysters we pulled out of the bay on our way to sea.”

Selina raised an eyebrow and smiled, touching her necklace thoughtfully. “Is that so?”

Bruce winked as he says “Let’s just say I hate it when my date turns suddenly into a newspaper interview.”

Selina shifted position, arcing her back as she played with the words in her head, letting them slip out. “And what do you love, Mr. Wayne?”

Bruce stared at her again, there was once more intense eye contact “A good drink, a good woman, a suggestive pose, and an easel. In order of importance.”

Selina smiled as she said “I hope you find a good woman tonight, then, Mr. Wayne. The bidding starts at one thousand.”

“One thousand, Zahira Ormarr.” The woman of mystery smiled as she lowered her hand again.

Diana laughed at this and hit the button again “Three thousand Diana of Themyscira”

Elise Noble was playing around with the entry device “Five thousand, Elise Noble.”

The others hit their buttons, Diana looked irritable as the device seemed to not be working as well anymore.

Selina Kyle then touched her bracelet. “10,000 dollars, Selina Kyle. Sold.” Selina smiled faintly as she said “A yacht, hmm?”

Bruce shrugged and said “And an easel?”

Selina shook her head “Let’s start with dinner first.”

[Deleted]

Diana was called up to be auctioned off like a slave and if you knew her well, you'd know she was nervous about this whole thing.
Not for anything but the whole auctioning thing made her uncomfortable. She adjusted her bracers and looked to Batman with a less than her normal confident smile before she stood up and gave her beaming grin and started up to the stage. As she got up there she gave Selina another hug as they said hello to her and Lex kissing Selina on the cheek in greeting.

Lex gave her a look. "I don't get one too?" he pointed toward his cheek.
Diana gave him a curious look. "Does that mean you're placing the first bid Mr Luthor?"

"Apparently I am," he said back to her and she placed a soft kiss on his cheek.

"So are you nervous at your first public auction Diana?" Selina asked her.

"Last time my people were auctioned off I don't remember very pleasant results so a little bit," she nodded her confirmation. "I'm hoping it doesn't end up with enslavement. I think I've got at least a fifty fifty shot," she responded with a smile and a short laugh.

“Diana of Themyscira, the mysterious envoy of the newfound and ancient land.” Lex Luthor appeared interested for one of the few times in the evening.

“Yes, that describes me very well. And as envoy of that land, I thank you for your hospitality.” She stated.

Lex Luthor furrowed his eyebrows and said “Do you have any idea what a stir it caused in the world, when you came here from a land purely thought to be out of legend?”

Diana nodded as she said “I’d say it was about the same as the stir that came upon my home when we found that we could no longer keep ourselves seperate from Man’s World.”

Lex nodded as he said “I can’t imagine that was an easy discussion, whether or not to rejoin the world.”

Diana stared at Lex, she stood tall and proud and dignified, like a marble goddess walking amongst mere mortals. “There were debates, and there were disagreements, but in the end it was decided that Man’s world needed us, and in some ways, we needed to be part of the world as well.”

Lex nodded “And here you are. . . at the center of it all. Thank you for coming this evening. And now, can you describe your perfect date? “

Diana smiled as she said “I haven't been on enough dates to know exactly what a perfect date would include but I'm sure whoever donates to be able to take me on a date will do a great job.”

Lex Luthor smiled faintly as he added “In addition, as I mentioned earlier, we’ve set up a number of interesting and unique experiences for the winners to go on, so that they don’t have to set up the dates themselves, but enjoy something new, courtesy of LexCorp and partners.So tell me, what is your favorite word?”

Diana laughed at that, the sound echoing in perfect geometric harmony, as if the tone was crafted from perfect ratios of frequency “I have to pick just one? If I had to choose I guess it would be... Respect.”

“And what turns you on creatively, spiritually or emotionally?”

Diana speaks with a clear and calm voice “It's going to sound a little cliche but honesty and passion. Without those two things I don't think that anyone could truly be turned on or inspired. Conversely, Deception is the greatest turn off.”

Lex nodded as he says “You’re a warrior, a diplomat, an archetype and a hero. What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? “

“I've always wanted to try being a nurse. They are the unsung heroes of the medical profession.”

Lex Luthor nodded as he said “A profession of compassion, the bidding starts at 2000.”

The auction bot’s voice echoed soothingly “Two thousand fifty four dollars and . . . twenty three cents for Leo Bivins.”

A peal of laughter from the audience. “Going once, 2500 for Nathaniel Arkham.”

The bidding started in earnest then, higher bids. “Piper Hill, $3000.00.“

“170,000 for Bruce Wayne.” Bruce appeared to be drinking at this point, smiling and lifting a glass up towards the Emissary of Themyscira.

Selina Kyle raised an arched eyebrow at that and then hit her own input device “$200,000 to Selina Kyle.” Bruce raised his again, then eye contact was made. Selina shook her head, Bruce lowered his device.

“Sold, 200,000 .. .Selina Kyle.” Applause. All in good fun. Diana smiled at Selina and said “I’m certain we’ll be able to show each other a good time.”

[Deleted]

“A controversial figure to some, a mentor to others, he’s authored a number of books, including: “Masks: Exploring the Jungian Shadow Archetype in a cognitive behavioral world,” and “Thought, Action and Murder: Behavioral Philosophy in the Post-Moral Century”. A major proponent of aversion therapy and the current director of Arkham Asylum, Dr. Jeremiah Arkham”

Jeremiah smiled at his wife and after smoothing buttoning up his jacket he makes his way between the tables and up the stairs to the stage. He takes Luthor's hand in a firm shake and then brings Selina's to his lips each being greeted with a "Thank you."

“Dr. Arkham.” Lex Luthor looked at the man. "You've been part of Arkham Asylum. . . well, some might say you've been in the field of Psychology you're entire life."

Dr. Arkham nodded and then said "Both my father and were psychiatrists, so yes, I was brought up immersed in psychiarty."

Luthor responded quickly "And what a life you've made in psychiatry. There are some records that suggest that Gotham City might have the highest rate of Psychiatrically triggered metacrime in the entirety of North America. . . you've had a chance to work with some of the worst and most infamous of these meta-criminals. Tell me, having worked with these sorts of minds over the years, do you have any insight into it?"

Dr. Arkham considered the question, letting the words incubate on the tongue, dissolving, transforming and reforming into a philosophy. "My insight into it is that Gotham, its history of battle and immigration had an opportunity to become a melting pot of personalities and its location served as a perfect port for organized crime. Gotham is a dark city filled with genius minds, but hardship has shaped so many of them. Every criminal I have seen has a defining moment, most from desperation and the lack of outlets. What we deal with is tragedy, not people who began wanting become the criminals they are today."

Luthor looked serious, nodding and responding slowly in Liptonesque pedagoguery "I couldn't agree more, it's one of the primary motivations behind the Metropham project. So where, Dr. Arkham. . . where do we go from here, in your opinion?"

Dr. Arkham’s answer was earnest, spoken with the firmness of a man who dreams of a better world. "I know people think such things do nothing, but we need better facilities in Gotham. By that I don't mean just hospitals or prisons, I mean schools, organizations that can intervene before more children or adults become so stressed their psyches fail. Where we go from here is partnering with each other, reaching out for each other, and striving forward. This city has taken so many steps back. That must stop."

Luthor nodded, then gestured out to the crowd. "I think you'll find a number of like minded people here tonight, Dr. Arkham. . . people who are here for a better Gotham, and a better world. I have to ask, on a more personal matter. You've been a psychologist . . . your entire life. If you could do anything other than that as your job. . . what would you want to be?"

Dr. Arkham smiled and then stroked his chin. "If I could anything other than psychiatry? I have often thought on this matter, I mean I realize I cannot lord over my asylum for my entire life. I have a family to take care of. So I have honestly thought about it. If I couldn't do psychiatry, I think I'd actually love to be a chef. I've always found cooking to be relaxing to me. I can unwind that way, think better."

Luthor smiles as he said "You might be surprised that I enjoy cooking myself. It's something I picked up in France from a friend of mine, who's actually providing the wine and arranged some of the catering here tonight. We'll have to exchange recipes sometime. Scientist, philosopher, administrator, and a great man of Gotham. . . Dr. Jeremiah Arkham, bidding begins at 250."

The opening bid came after a moment, followed by some slow but interested bids. In the end. the announcer said “Sold, Iris Ledford”

[Deleted]

“Aria Lloyd, heiress to the Lloyd Pet Fortune, and currently working in the broad world of Politics. . .”

As if simply rounding the corner, Aria appears off to one side but is quick to head over to the stage, casting a smile over her shoulder and reaching up an arm to wave at the audience as she heads up the stairs. In spite of the method she's using to be here, she's dressed for the occasion - it simply wouldn't do to appear under-dressed in such a public setting, after all. Once on stage her gaze shifts over to where Lex and Selina are standing. "Mr. Luthor, I can't thank you enough for your assistance in allowing me to participate in this auction via prerecorded hologram in spite of my other obligations this evening - this technology is truly amazing!" she says first with a grateful nod, "And Selina, thank you for allowing me to participate in this auction - Metropham is a cause that I believe in and spending some time with someone willing to donate to it for the pleasure of my company is the least I can do."

Lex Luthor smiled as he said “Unfortunately due to limitations in Miss Lloyd’s schedule, she was to cancel her appearance this evening. However, using the wonders of LexCorp proprietary technology, we were able to record her earlier and get some of the answers to these questions. This is tricky, so bear with me as I try to get the timing right.”

“A leisurely brunch or lunch in a quiet, high-class, and private location where we can easily talk. Afterward we could go dancing - I'm quite good at the waltz.”

Lex Luthor shook his head as he touched his wristband “I see that I’ve failed already. That was to ask for . . . what is your perfect date. Let’s try again. Miss Lloyd, What turns you on creatively, spiritually or emotionally?”

Aria had a focused look in her eye as she looked at Lex. “New, untapped opportunities. I believe in a brighter future.”

Lex nods and says “Don’t we all. You’re a brilliant young lady, master of your own company with an interest in politics. Tell me, if you could do neither of those, what profession other than your own would you like to attempt?”

Aria thought for a moment and then responded;“Banking.”

Lex Luthor smiled at that and then said “If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates?”

Aria smiled and seemed to enjoy a private joke with Lex. “Well, if it isn't my favorite former President of the United States!”

Lex smiled as he said “At least you’re setting your sights highly. I might try for it myself some day, I’ve been told I should run. The bidding starts at 500, and I myself would like to put in the opening bid at 1000.”

The announcer responds “2500, Nathaniel Arkham”

Lex Luthor raised his hand. “4000, Lex Luthor”

The announcer then states “5000, Nathaniel Arkham.” Luthor shrugs and says “Another time perhaps.” He smiled and said “Thank you for joining us, Ms. Lloyd, and thank you for all you do for Gotham. Best of luck on your new role.”

[Deleted]

Lex Luthor smiled as he said "Next up, The Honorable Hamilton Hill, Mayor of Gotham City.” The music swelled, a jaunty tune as the Mayor approached the stage.

“Mr. Mayor. . . thank you for dedicating your time and your efforts to this endeavor.” Lex Luthor shook the Mayor’s hand. Photographs, a good photo opportunity for all.

Mayor Hill nodded once, he tried to maintain the dignity of his office, but then again he seemed slightly out of place amongst the laser futuristic decor of the Metropham Gala, his tuxedo was decidedly old fashioned, and his bearing showed he was a relic of a slower age.

“Mr. Luthor, we can’t thank you and Ms. Kyle enough for all that you’re doing for Gotham. I too, believe in Gotham City, and for once it’s nice for someone to see Gotham as it will be, not as it once was.” A bit long for a soundbite, but still, not unworkable.

“Gotham has been a city beset by numerous challenges.”

“I admit, economically it’s been difficult.”

“And the crime.”

“Yes, Mr. Luthor, the crime situation. It’s untenable, with organized crime and those more specialized criminals, madmen and lunatics. An explosive problem.”

Luthor nodded “How does one maintain the rule of law, in the face of such chaotic forces, such as . . . the Joker? It seems that rehabilitation is limited in efficacy.”

The Mayor nodded “Gotham State law has put us in a bit of a bind with those situations, he eludes rehabilitation and seems to be interested only in creation of chaos. He’s not alone in that matter, there’s a number of others in the city who seek to just destroy what others might build.”

Luthor cocked his head slightly saying, “I personally am not opposed to the death penalty, I wonder sometimes if more lives would be saved with it’s implementation.”

Luthor nodded as he said “Well spoken. Mr. Mayor. . . it’s time to ask questions.”

“What is is it that you dislike the most?”

“I hate those who would ignore the laws of Gotham, vigilantes who try to undermine the civic structure of our fair Gotham, and madmen who would burn all that we have built to the ground.”

“If you had to be anything other than Mayor, what would you want to become.”

Hill smiled at that saying “Retired! If that’s not an option, maybe I’d have a run for Governor.”

Luthor nodded “The bidding starts at 500.”


Almost immediately a voice sounded of the announcer “$10,000 to Aria Lloyd.” The mayor’s eyes widened a bit. A few seconds later, two voices sounded together “10,500 for El-15,000 for Aria Lloyd.” then silence.

“Sold, Aria Lloyd.”

[Deleted]

“You’ve seen her on Television, a well known Gotham personality. Summer Gleeson of Gotham Live!” Theme music from the show swells up at Summer walked onto the stage.

Summer wasn’t exactly on board for this auction. While it was a brilliant idea and the profits were going toward a great project, she would have much rather taken a less active role. However, Gotham Live studios seemed to have other plans for her. For the sake of her ratings, she eventually agreed though it wasn’t exactly like she was going to have that much of a choice despite how much she liked to think she did. The ravishing redhead was more than happy to leave her table she had been assigned. Summer wasn’t keen with spending any more time with the man who had been attempting to strangle her less than an hour ago and the boyfriend who she was sure had considered the same action a time or two in the past.

Slightly nervous, she started toward the stage with a false confidence. She couldn’t imagine the results and she was curious to find out. Moving to greet Selina almost casually, she knew she was being recorded for her show and wanted her viewers to see that she had befriended the wealthy hostess as if it would add to her own credibility. Greeting Luthor a bit more professionally, she made sure that she maintained the proper angles so that she continued to look flawless when the film would be aired on her show the next day. The lighting was unique, but she didn’t want it to wash her out at all. Sending her signature wink into the camera and biting her lip as if to show she was slightly nervous, it was all a huge act – on the inside, she was overwhelmed with curiosity and nerves.

Lex smiled at her and said “Ms. Gleeson, thank you for coming. Your show is quite the phenomenon. Did you know that it’s currently one of the most pirated shows in Finland? For some reason, Finns love you.”

Summer smiled and said “They know their queen when they see her, obviously. I didn’t know it was so popular in Finland.”

Summer nodded and said “Funny story that. . . it turns out that I resemble Finnish President Niko Ruotsalainen and when Finnish guests on my show told me, I did a few bits on Finland, and for some reason they like the stories about all the crazy crime here?”

Lex Luthor raised his eyebrows. “Is that right?”

Summer shrugged and said “I’ve been trying to get the rights to have the show brought over to Scandanavia, but so far it’s hard to work out. Still, to all my Finnish fans ‘Hiukseni ovat punainen ja olen kerran suuteli koira. Hyväksyn sinut.” That’s something one of the fans taught me to say. And to everyone in Gotham, Watch Gotham Live!”

“You’re, in some ways, the face of Gotham. What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?”

Summer grinned "I always thought it would be interesting to be a psychologist, the field itself is fascinating. I think I might make a decent one with the right training."

Lex Luthor smiled as he said “When you’re not working, what would you think of as a perfect date?”

"Well, I don't get very much free time, but if I were to go on a date I would want to do something thrilling. I am not really one for romantics - so leave the box of chocolates and hand-written poem at home. Going to an amusement part or taking a hike would be something that I would do ideally on a date. I adore new and unfamiliar experiences, just surprise me!"

Lex Luthor smiled as he said “So what would your favorite word be?”

"I'm guessing my own name doesn't count, so let's go with - promotion." There was laughter in the audience, Summer was glowing. She adored the spotlight.

Lex smiled as he said “The bidding starts at 300.” The opening bid was quiet. 1000 dollars.

“Edward Nigma.” Summer looked at him and made a strange face.

Selina blinked and then bid. “5000 to Selina Kyle”

Almost instantly, Eddie bid again, 10,000, Ed Gamin.

Selina looked at Summer, she was getting irritated. "20,000, Selina Kyle. “

“40,000, Ed Gamin.”

Selina narrowed her eyes at Eddie, starting to mouth something for the man to lip read, then suddenly- “100,000, Bruce Wayne.” The robotic voice stated.

Nigma looked at the milquetoast playboy and narrowed his eyes. How DARE he. . . how dare he. . . they’ll see who has the last laugh.

[Deleted]

It was nearing the crunch time, as Roy along with the rest of his table had gotten through a few of the courses of food. Casually chatting, whether it was work or little insight of personal. Though of course within boundaries. When you have half the table doctors and the other half pretty much super heroes, two in disguise. One not so much, it certainly didn't make the conversations boring by any means. Now was literally counting the minutes. Nay seconds. For the auction to promptly begin. To say Roy wasn't a little apprehensive, would be a lie. Confident, but there was a near lump in his throat. His palms a little clammy. Thankfully didn't jump out of his chair like he just got on the price is right and screamed like a girl. Though there was a level of excitement. He loved the ladies, but he couldn't attest to ever being up for auction before. Although at times it could almost feel like that. Oh, wow! He mentally calmed himself, assured he be rocking it once he was on stage. He was a natural on stage. Fiddling with his cuff links, before Starfire leaned in and helped sort them out.

"Here let me..."

"Thanks…!"

Roy responded with simple and friendly gratitude. Smiled with a half cheesy smile, but mostly in truth was sincere. Helping him dress, couldn't really ever get old. Collected himself once his cuffs were in order and pushed his chair back a bit. Before taking to his feet to stand… Possibly breathe. His hands wondered a little to the collar of his shirt. Moving to tuck his scarf back in. Before moving his hand down to the two buttons on his blazer. Redoing the top button, whilst leaving the second one unbuttoned. Run a hand to help press the material down. Before being re met with Kory and golden hands helping adjust his tie. Yeah, he would sure be decreased by now. He loosely ruggedly smiled.

"You'll do fine. Just take a moment to breathe and don't forget to smile."

"I will, princess… Does this mean I can expect a bid from you?"

Almost on command. Roy breathed and smiling wasn't completely difficult. As he watched the tamaranean princess fiddle at his tie. With her friendly touch, taking care. His dark eyes laid on her with subtle friendly playful look. Yeah, he knew. Even as he asked, almost sincere. Though even at the question rolled around in Starfire's mind. Almost see it churn in her eyes. Half biting the inside of her lip, her cheeks changed colour. Went a little more golden. 'uh..' As the words almost struggled at her tongue, before her head turned towards quite simply the answer. Dick Grayson. Naturally, Roy gleamed a look. A look of almost being let down, but he was totally playing it up. Wasn't like he didn't live with them, to have already gotten the hint. His hand picked up at little at her chin, before planting a friendly kiss on her golden forehead and pulling away.

"Never mind… How is our boy? Still up for the wager? Wish me luck!"

Casually in his playful Roy way responded. Really, hardly heart broken. Surely he didn't make to much of a bad impress to gather up no bids… Surely there was a little interest, as his dark eyes half escaped the room filled with wonderful people. Wonderful ladies. His gaze returned briefly to look more over Starfire's shoulder and more directly at Dick Grayson. Recalling he wasn't the only lucky lamb up for auction. Toyed about the wager of who'd out bid who, whether it was a real wager they had made or not. Roy was least feeling the fact he was actually single, had to be a benefit right? With last little flash of his smile and lasting words. Roy all, but turned on his heels. With almost a spotlight on him, as he took the short trip weaved through some of the tables and made way towards the stage. Casually waved at a few faces. Familiar and face not so familiar, but Roy could certainly get familiar with. Taking the steps and thankfully didn't trip on his ass. Before he took the space and met with the hosts of GALA! The bald and the beautiful!

"Mr Luthor….! Ms Kyle….! Where would you like me?"

With a little check of his blazer collar. He least felt sharp. Breaking the space and offered a handshake to Lex Luthor. Not entirely sure he was in Lex's good books, but all in good measure, Roy was sure. Came with a manly smile. Before turning his attentions more towards the ravishing Ms Kyle. If only they were on strictly first name bases. As Roy lingered his hand upon her own and planted a sensual kiss upon her hand. Offering a charming smile. Direct eye contact, before Roy asked. Whilst half looking for the X on the stage.


“Roy Harper, a very talented musician, I had the chance to listen to you once some years ago, I was very impressed with it.”

Roy nodded and said “Thank you. I had the chance to listen to you once some time ago, but I have no idea what you were talking about.”

Lex Luthor nodded as he said “That’s not uncommon. Maybe if I played guitar while I said it, people wouldn’t mind so much.”

Bruce Wayne shouted out from the crowd “It wouldn’t help!”

Luthor shrugged as he spread his arms apart as he said “I suppose that’s why I’m not a professional musician. Luckily, the world has given me the opportunity to not have to have to do that line of work.”

He smiles at Roy as he says “So, tell me. Mr. Harper. if you weren’t a musician, what would you want to be?”

Roy had that cocky grin on his face, “Speed Racer, easy. . . “

Luthor raised an eyebrow as he said “Enjoy the daredevil lifestyle?”

Roy nodded as he said “You have no idea. . . and to anticipate your question, if heaven were real and I was at the pearly gates, I’d expect St. Peter to say ‘'Now we're gonna have some fun around here!'"

Luthor nodded as he said “And on that note, let’s have some fun over here. The bidding starts at . . “

Elise shouted out, “500!”

The announcer said “Elise noble, 500.”

Rene Montoya smirked and raised a hand. “Rene Montoya, 600.”

“Elise Noble 5000,” Elise smiled, smugly to herself as she crossed her arms. “Sold to Elise Noble,” stated the robotic voice once more.

[Deleted]

“The notorious socialite, media darling, and entrepreneur. . . Piper Hill has been in and out of the news a lot lately for various reasons, but what they don’t share is how charming she is in person.”

Piper spent the evening huffing and puffing, the only time she had even cracked a smile at her table was when the officer she had recognized from the hotel would flirt with her. Even though she was clearly not interested and didn’t particularly swing that way, she still found it amusing nonetheless and it was evident that the young heiress lived for attention – both negative and positive. When the time came, she was more than happy to leave the kiddie table and start toward the stage. The blonde bombshell broke into a smile as she started up the steps and moved to kiss each side of Selina’s face as a greeting. “What are we auctioning again?” The blonde asked, clearly unaware of what was going on.

Lex Luthor nodded and said “Just smile for the cameras, it’s for Charity, Piper!”

Piper smiled into the audience and said “Hi! I totally believe in what we’re doing here!” She responded generically, glistening in the way that tended to evoke the very modern interpretation of fame.

Lex Luthor smiled “So Piper, how would you describe your perfect date?”

Piper grinned at the audience, supermodel gleam lighting up the stage "I would have to say the perfect date would be a day at the beach - or even boating. That was I can work on my tan and see what bikini my date is sporting"
Lex raised an eyebrow saying “And what sort of bikini would that be?”

Piper raised a hand to her face giggling a bit “At the end of everything, none! Clothing is such a turnoff!”

Lex Luthor smiled faintly saying “They say clothes make the man.” Piper raises an eyebrow saying “That’s why I don’t date them.”
Lex shrugs asking “And what turns you on creatively, spiritually or emotionally?”
Piper smiled "Candles, bubble baths, anything alcoholic."
“Anything Alcoholic? Do you have any preferences?”

Piper grinned. “I have a lot of preferences!”
Lex nodded waiting for a moment, then when Piper didn’t see the need to elaborate, he moved on “So clothes are a turnoff, and you love candles, baths and alcohol. . . What sound or noise do you love?”

"Applause."

Lex smiled as he said “Then everyone give the woman a round of applause . . and let’s start the bid at”
“300, Officer Bivins” the voice read out of the auction program before anything else happened.
Then nothing. A person in the crowd hit the button for a moment.

“Sold, Leo Bivins.”

Bivins was audibly heard saying “Really? Awesome!”

Rene Montoya shrugged and then made a wan face at Piper.

[Deleted]

Gordon tried not to groan audibly as he approached the stage, he was getting too old for this. He walked up towards the stage, the lights on him. It was something he hadn’t ever quite gotten used to, and he wondered if he ever would. His tie was straightened, suit old, he approached the base of the stage and walked his way up and then squinted out, before clearing his throat. “Evening Ms. Kyle, Mr. Luthor.” A momentary thought, a flash to the young lady at his side getting her mugshot taken, bruised face, lipstick smeared, torn shirt, cops cracking jokes. . . he wondered idly if this was her way of getting back at him after all these years.

“I’d like to take this moment to thank you for all you’re doing for this city, and for the people in it, although I’m not sure if dragging this old bag of bones on stage for whatever pocket change you think I’ll get.”
Lex Luthor smiled as he said "I'm certain, Commissioner, that you underestimate yourself. You're quite the luminary in Gotham City, and for three years in a row, you've been called "America's Commissioner" Why, I believe you could run for high office, if your mind took you towards that, or perhaps a talk show."

Gordon scoffed at Luthor, "No need to be silly."

Lex Luthor nodded as he said “Describe the perfect date…”

Gordon got a little stary eyed at that, thinking “When I met my wife. . . my ex wife. . . our first date was down at Amusement Mile, back before it fell apart. I remember being on the ferris wheel when it got caught. We were stuck up there for two hours, watching the sunset. That was one of the best nights of my life.”

Luthor nodded. “What is your favorite word?”
Gordon spoke quickly, firmly “Justice.”
Luthor raised an eyebrow “And what word do you hate?”

Gordon looked at Luthor, dead in the eye. “Untouchable . . . I like seeing bastards get what’s coming to them. . . I don’t like Bullies.”

Luthor moved on quickly “If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates?"

“I forgive you.”

Luthor nodded and then said “The bidding starts at $250”

The opening bid was Diana, who appeared to be enjoying the way the device worked, and bidding for fun at this point. “$200”

Selina smirked and raised her hand “$1000” Gordon KNEW that this was payback at this point.

But then Rooster bid. . . Gordon looked up at her for a moment, blinking.

“Sold, Mizz Stone.”

He was led off the stage in a bit of a daze, he hated this sort of thing.

[Deleted]

The effects of the excessive flutes of champagne were starting to wear off and thankfully very few seemed to have noticed her red cheeks and constant giggling. Then again, while placed at the same table as Bivin’s, laughter only seemed to be contagious. The only one in their presence who seemed to be completely bored with the situation was the mayor’s bratty daughter. Babs couldn’t help but send a few snippy comments in the other female’s direction, only to have the blonde roll her eyes and continue to mutter things under her breath. Thankfully, the blonde was called to the stage, leaving the group in piece for a brief amount of time. However, it wasn’t much long after until Barbara found herself starting toward the stage herself.

With a bit of a natural blush, she started toward the stage, focusing only on Selina to calm her nerves. When she had originally agreed to do this she hadn’t exactly thought about the long term of it all. She wasn’t sure who would even actually bid on her to be honest. While she was a natural beauty, she wasn’t fully confident in her looks unless she was behind the comfort of her mask. Still, with a warm smile the redhead moved to greet Mr. Luthor and Selina, trying to be as formal as possible so that she wouldn’t make a fool out of herself.

Selina’s dress swayed well in the room, the music swelled in the background, smile to the crowd. She smiled at the young woman. “Barbara, good to see you.”
Barbara smiled and said “Hey Selina. I like the party.”  Selina nodded and said “Yes, it turned out fantastic. So, Barbara. . . how would you describe your perfect date?”  Barbara blinked for a moment and said “… Um, I haven't really thought about it. I suppose my perfect date would be to somewhere like a museum, the opera or an aquarium. Someplace where I can easily distract myself in case the date fails."

Lex spoke up at this point “I think that you’ve got quite a lot to speak for you, if I’m any judge of character.”
Barbara nodded and looked up at Lex, he’d just offered her a job, and that was certainly something. She thanked him.

Selina spoke up “The bidding starts at 100.”


The opening bid was from Dick Grayson. . . for one hundred. . . but he was opposed almost immediately by Diana. Bullock looked at Grayson for a moment, all abs and eyes and Bludhaven PD. . . well, that wouldn’t do. No Bludhaven punk was going to get the commish’s daughter. “Four hundred.” The bidding continued onwards. Back and forth to 500.

And that’s when Diana of Themyscira surprised the room with a bid of six thousand. She looked at Dick and Bullock for a moment. The voice spoke out “Sold, six thousand. Diana of Themyscira.