Intentions [Kori]

[Deleted]

Bright sun, reflected off of the polished skyscrapers of Gotham, caused him to squint as he looked up at the tallest building in the square: Wayne Enterprises. The income of Bruce Wayne himself. While this particular business, he knew, was empty of all things corrupted, multiple other multi-million dollar business that were fraught with ego were just a stone's throw away. But, he shrugged off the thought. Their inevitable judgement was coming. In fact, it had arrived.

The streets were busy in this time of day, but were slowly beginning to empty out now that the lunch rush was over and done with. The bustle was dying down while the old familiar stench of the Gotham day life still hung in his nostrils. Something about it was nostalgic, yet another part made him sick to the point of gagging. Still, no one noticed him standing as if entranced by the large building's architecture. In actuality, he was hardly impressed. Nothing had changed. Nothing ever changed.

But he had. That was the root of the problem.

None of the bystanders, talking animatedly with their colleagues or rushing back to work, seemed to notice the dude in the motorcycle jacket that never seemed to take a breath. They didn't notice the bulge of two guns tucked easily into his waistbelt or the anonymous shining handle that barely poked from his black pants. Maybe their blissfulness was what made them so easy to kill and steal from, but Jason knew he couldn't fix their blissfulness. He could do something about the thieves and murderers, though.

Make no mistake, he intended to.

[Kory Anders - Starfire]

Summer sun couldn't be more beautiful! It was a perfect day. A little sun bathing in the earlier hours. A meeting or more a rehearsal, for a runaway in the coming nights at one of the fancy buildings in the west of Gotham. It was no means fashion week, but it still was going to be a fun show. With some of the money raised for charity, of course. Dressed back in her own clothes. A chiffon flowy short pink skirt and a white chiffon t-shirt, tucked into the skirt. Some flat slip on shoes. A casual bag. Sunglasses and fiery hair out like wild fire. For some moments, she had walked with some casual model friends, before kindly departing for her car… It was rare she was behind a wheel. It was questionable if it was even legal. Pressing the button to unlock the door. Did the general, set in side. Put belt on. Key in. Turn it… Ok… Nothing… Save, Led Zeplin blaring a little out of her speakers… No engine. No car noises. Cursing under the tamaranean princess's breath. Koriand'r turned the key off and popped the hood of the car up. Surely if she knew star ships… Making her way around to the front. Checked, all the pockets. Water. Oil. Battery. Engine. Everything seemed to be in place. Bent over as her orange hands fiddled around a little. She had paid close enough attention, that this was what Dick had done on occasion. Fiddle with stuff…

"Zorkaberries!"

Cursed the tamaranean princess, there was probably some other tamaranean curses, but mostly muffled by the nearby traffic or hustle of the street noises. Wiped her cheek a little with her hand, tiny amount of grease on her cheek and popped her head back from under the hood. Fiddled with her phone. Called 911… Which in turn was Dick. He was after all a cop… So he was allowed to help emergencies, right? The ringing continued until she heard his voice and as her lips were about too… His went along the message box tone. Leaving him a short message, but assuring him, she should find away and of course she loved him… Looking back at the car. Looking side to side. Well, was possible… She could just pick it up and take it home… No, Dick have more reasons not to allow her to borrow the said car or worse. At this rate, flying was the better way of travelling. Resting a little against the car. Her sunglass covered eyes looked up and about. Surely someone would care to help her out and with lesser people around. There was defiantly some kind looking people, but all very much a place to be… Almost…. Spotting the handsome man in a motorbike jacket… It was familiar, but a different familiar. As her hand gently motioned her sunglasses to her nose, as if blinking if it was really… Who she thought! It can't be? As a warmth hit her cheeks, watching him almost turn, just enough to see..

"Jason…? I… Is it really you? I didn't expect to see your grebnacks back in town."

There was quite a wondrous tone in her voice. Even though she was questioning it, given this wasn't what she had expected to appear or she should say whom, but clearly… It was the man she had saved and for all purposed thought he was quite the gentleman. Also funny of course and with all his cool edges. Kory stepped from the car to greet him more warmly. Least she was one that was happy to see him. Even as she made a tamaranean mark on his perfect behind or butt as humans said to poetically. With almost an amusing friendly expression. With all the chances of giving him a welcoming hug… That's if he did hugs. Recalling he was somewhat funny with that, even though Kory just saw someone warm and wonderful. Surprised, but it was defiantly a good surprise to see him again.

[Deleted]

The wind picked up, sending cigarette butts and bits of trash aflurry and making his leather jacket flap lightly at his sides as he continued to be lost in his own thoughts. His reverie was interrupted by a small distraction, the distant call of, "Jason?" He disregarded it. There were thousands of people on these streets and any one of them could be named Jason. This was his old stomping ground, but what were the odds that someone had recognized him after all that had happened? Unless it was...

"Kori?" "Is it really you? I hadn't expected to see your grebnecks back in town." He was positively grinning that this day had taken an unexpected, but welcome, turn. Princess Koriand'r, of the late planet Tamaran and savior of his puny, miserable life. The mention of 'grebnecks' brought an even brighter grin to his face. He had missed her deplorably, so when she came to give him an unexpectected hug, he wrapped his arms around her with ease. Her contact with his ass only bolstered his high spirits and perhaps made him chuckle a little louder between his radiant smile, with her still clutched tightly in his embrace. "Having a little car trouble? I daresay I could help you out with that." After their reunion disengaged, he walked over to the impressive convertible and whistled in his impression, both at the body of the car and the engine underneath. Something stuck a chord in his mangled brain about the similarities between Kori and this beauteous steed, but the thought left his mind without fully developing.

"Impressive ride you have here," he said as he stroked the beauty while looking down at the engine. "And impressive horsepower to boot. Where'd you get her?" Something subliminal told him that Dick had something to do with it. Granted, with Kori, his first suspect was always Dick. He was omnipresent in their conversations, even when he wasn't there or wasn't even remotely the subject of the conversation. Everything always lead back to him. And, similar to the way Gotham made him both reminisce and gag, so did Dick.

[Kory Anders - Starfire]

There had been some little questioning when all Kory had seen was the back view of, Mr Todd… Best known as Jason. As Kory had called out and on close inspection. Her eye sight hadn't mistaken. Defiantly not as the growing glow to her golden cheeks brightened and Jason's turned. Grinning and just welcoming… What little chance was there in him forgetting? Any or all doubts, floated away. With almost the feeling he had missed her and met Kory with the embracing hug. Felt the gentle weight of his arms around her and making sure, of course not to hug him too tightly. Kory's smile became a little more amusing, hearing his chuckle echo in her ear. Most likely at her affectionate manor, but he was whether he felt worthy… Was indeed a friend. Noting he didn't smell half bad, quite the familiar musk.

"I'm happy too see you, Jason… Oh, yes. A little… Thank-you, that would be most helpful… I tried, but I don't think I understand the technology. "

Kory sincerely said, friendly and a little bubbly in his ear. Smile almost ear to ear. This was defiantly marking as a good day and possibly even better. As Kory expected colour to her innocent cheeks, responding to the trouble with the car. Expressed with her hands a little, of course she was merely guessing. Hand tucked her red hair behind her ear as the hug had retreated and was thankful when Jason offered to help… That's right, she recalled he was quite the handyman. A smile, but with some animation to her eyes, that showed that would defiantly be helpful. Following him the short steps back to the car… Even a smirk came along her lips at Jason's expression at the car itself.. It was certainly wasn't unattractive. Plus it had door handles. Rested a gentle hand against the edge by the hood of the car. As Jason defiantly looked like he knew more what he was looking at… Vaguely catching a glance in the reflection of the window, caught the little mark on her cheek and quickly motioned to be rid of it… Hopefully it was gone now…

"Thank-you… I'm not sure I know much about it, other than it can go pretty fast and surprisingly quite smoothly… Oh, you know… Dick's been trying out cars. He's not needed it with his job, so he suggested I borrow it and Roy's been giving me lessons… I know you don't see eye to eye, that's between you and Dick, are you going to avoid him? Now that your back. I mean if this means your not just passing through…? You look good!"

Thanking Jason, with a bright smile. Watching him, quite invested in the car. It was her that acquired the car, but Jason was still very kind… Already feeling that easily comfort, she found on the island and deep conversations. Commenting she did like the speed and the feel of the car. Was quite enjoyable, not that it really held a candle to flying, but Kory could see the appeal to humans. She had come upon a couple motorbike rides in her day, Kory gave a sincere smile to Jason. There was that elephant in the room. She liked to think more handsome than any elephant. As Jason had asked where… Kory was open and she couldn't avoid, telling Jason something different. She was capable of hiding things, but somehow he'd see right through it. Mostly she knew he didn't deserve it. Of course, how much detail she could offer she couldn't be sure, but she was sure Jason would understand. Kory expressed Dick was trying out cars, least thats how he explained it too her. A car that suited. He was trying to do things more on his own, now that they were living in Bludhaven and quite away from Bruce's shadow. Mentioned his job, now that he was cop and thus at times Kory was borrowing the car. Got lessons, Kory grinned a little. More it felt telling a friend of what's been happening, rather than simple being about Dick. Not that Jason needed to feel any where near the same, he probably hated Dick, just as much as Kory loved Dick, but friendship could be above that. You didn't have to like the same things, not that it wasn't like having something in common, but evidently there was more. Maybe even so much because they contrasted. Saw what the other could not… Kory a little hesitantly, but given Dick was brought up, expressing what ever it was between them. She wasn't so much one for picking sides, she was a little like Switzerland. Though clearly with Jason back in town, some sort of reunion. Happy or not, was likely going to happen. He needn't elaborate. She wasn't fishing any plans out of him, just an ear if he needed. Everything seemed a little more rooted that simply hate… Jason was hurt and he was the one left too pick up the pieces. Just as Kory had when Tamaran betrayed her and she was left to claw her way from being a slave… Jason had to do, what he felt was right… Though, Kory like she had mentioned on the island, was worried about the rage consuming his heart.. Of course as Kory curiously asked. Now she was maybe a little fishing, in hoping he wasn't just passing through… Maybe there was room for catching up. Simply stating the truth, he looked well, but really how could he not? He was here!

[Deleted]

It only made him happier when he saw how happy she was to see him. It had been a long while since he had seen her, and normally she was never this overjoyed on their little endeavors. Distance make the memories fonder, and the reunion even fonder-er. Unfortunately, that wouldn't be the case with Dick, or any of the Batman family. He already had a knuckle-sandwhich in mind for Bruce and the reunion he planned with Dick would either be full of exchange or plenty of bloody noses.

He continued his charismatic, dark chuckle when she mentioned her relative incompetency with earth technology. "You'd think that Tamaranian technology would be a *meh* more advanced, but I guess we humans are just too behind for your comprehension." He said this jokingly, laughing, but in all honesty. There was no double-bladed knife behind his words. Kori was infamous for her honesty, and he liked to reciprocate, just in his own messed-up way sometimes. That was why he liked their relationship so much. Too many people, Bruce included were shaded and secretive and never let too much of themselves on. Jason like to be that way, or seem that way, sometimes. But it was usually in the presence of Bruce or Dick, as most of his character quirks usually took place. Was his persona too centered around his adoptive father and the favorite son? No, no that's ridiculous and absurd and I may have to kill you for saying that. Shut up I'm not crazy. Stop getting distracted, Jason, and focus on the car.

Roy Harper was mentioned, breifly, and he reminisced for a millisecond about the three of them (Kori, Jason, and Roy) and their little tour of space and time. He seemed to be doing a lot of fond (if silent) reminiscing in Kori's presence today, at least until she admitted to Dick's part in this magnificent car. Of course, the prodigal son got all the things he wanted; this beauty of a motor vehicle, the strong embrace of a father, Kori... No, no. Stop that. Bad thoughts. Suddenly he felt like stealing the wheels off of this thing and making a run for it. But... no, no that wasn't him anymore. He'd steal the whole car, now. But... no, no he wouldn't. It was Kori's car, too. And he respected her too much to steal anything from her. Well, save maybe Dick... but that's for another time.

He refrained from saying anything about Dick, just for fear of angering Kori and scaring her off. And he didn't think he could stand if that happened. "Don't worry, I'm here for a while at least, depending on how welcoming Bruce may be to my... activities." In all honesty, he knew Bruce wouldn't stand idly and let him go about killing the crooks to save Gotham. A part of it pissed him off, just that the aging man couldn't see past his own nose. Another part had some grudging respect for the man he once called his father, who was so-called "incorruptible." But, deep down, he knew this wasn't about what Bruce wanted for himself. It's what Bruce needed for Gotham. And the Caped Crusader refused to see that.

Amidst all his thoughts, he was hunched over the hood, fingers now covered in grease. The smell began to waft into his nose and bring a storm of fond memories into his vision, leaving him only to chuckle again as she glanced up at Kori and saw her trying to wipe a grease stain off of her cheek, only succeeding in smudging it further. He removed a rag from his pocket to wipe the grease off of his own hands and returned to full height to look at her and reply to her most recent statement, "You look good!" Another smile, more mysterious and shadowed than the grins he shot at her previously, breached his visage. He flipped the rag to a grease-less spot and gently wiped the grease from her blushing skin.

"You don't look so bad yourself, Kor."

[Kory Anders - Starfire]

With there was a plan brewing in Jason's mind, Kory needn't know a thing about it. There was little that could over shadow he was a good person. Everyone had an opinion on what was perfectly good, was there even such a thing. Least Jason was honest in that regard. He beat to his own drum. A very handsome, slightly dangerous and quite sexy drum… Of course, Kory could a loop to that. Seeing him was easy. Trying to explain why she liked him, would be pointless. There simply didn't need to be a reason. She couldn't see why she couldn't. In all his endeavours, he was trying. All he probably wanted was someone to listen. When he didn't get what he wanted. He didn't cry. Seek sympathy. He broke down the doors that shut in his face and most likely flipping the people off who put up those road blocks. He could be probably a jerk to some, to those he considered friends. Maybe rare he trusts… He couldn't be more warming… All Kory could feel bad is for those that didn't get that chance. Then there was that familiar dark chuckle. He always had the knack of lifting her up in ways, she probably didn't see so clearly. Saw her, accepted her in a world that was maybe a bit to focused on judging her. She was a little more switched on, than she cared for humans to realise.

"You should know about the different power sources, Jason… I don't know what's more confusing; human technology or men."

Kory said with a more alluring tone in her voice. Having come to rest her arms against the rim of the car, watching Jason work on the… Machine at hand. With a linger smirk on her rather pretty lips. As her orange hand lightly brushed against his arm, her touch increased with warmth, but didn't over heat to burn him… Alluding to the many sources of power in the world. Retreating her hand with an amusing soft laugh. Friends could easily joke. Knowingly of course. Almost coming to rest on arms on the rig of the hood. Jason trying to find the source of the problem. Wondering what was distracting him, but cute to see him recollect the present. Already tell, bringing up Dick… Was Touchy… Maybe not so much Roy, but sometimes Roy's bad quality was simply he could talk a lot. He meant good. He was caring. He was probably the most heroic between the three… Kory could see there were things Jason had stopped himself from saying… Best left un-said. Maybe. There was much more than just a common trait with the original boy wonder. Much. Much more. Not that he could scare Kory off, but merely she didn't want to pick sides. What issue they had, didn't stem from her. It was much deeper than that. It was something that both men had to deal with, their way. If were mistakes were made, that would be their lesson to learn. Though it was sweet, Jason cared enough about Kory's feelings. She really wouldn't want anything to come between them, it hardly seemed possible. Save maybe another sort of red head.

"For someone thats built his own legacy in this city, to stand on his own, you would think he'd see the writing on the wall… Maybe one day! You're a survivor. You're true to yourself… I get it! I accept it!.. Bruce just doesn't or maybe can't understand!… Well, I'm for one am glad. We've got some catching up to do… Maybe even another road trip?"

Not that Kory was really trying to show her wisdom, in pointing out the fact, that Bruce had made his own path in the Batman. Paved out his own destiny, even after tragedy had struck him. Yet, Bruce felt the need to keep trying to hold the Robin's back, from stepping out on their own. Being their own man. Hero. Jason. Even Dick.. Kory giving Jason, the understanding look. Bruce didn't have the most warming view of her, maybe not any more than he did Jason. Not that Kory didn't respect him on some level, you had to. He was Batman, but in her words, suggestion despite in all his power, Bruce may not always be right. Merely not understand. Sometimes, it wasn't a matter whether you agreed, but understood either one did. Kory didn't need allude on the fact that Jason was a survivor. Who or what he was. She was a survivor as he. They were a little bent to the world around them. They weren't giving up. He was given his life back, as tainted as it probably was the process, but now wasn't a time to simply lie down and die again. Somehow Kory imagined, Jason would grab the teabags of life or even kick them if he had to. Last thing she'd expect is him to call himself was an angel, that would be boring. No, what Jason was, was real. No bull. Of course, on the lighter note, as Kory mentioned she was pleased to see him in town. He has the right to his freedom. Her knowing smile in relating on getting caught up, which ever activity might tage with it. Maybe even a road trip of sorts. There was a car after all.

"Gratitudes… Its quite becoming of you! If you're free after the manhandling, was there a place you wanted to visit? Something you missed? I guess not the gun range! I do recall you having, some amazing guns!"

Kory blushed at her cheeks thanking Jason. Kory almost forgot how aware he was and reminding he could be quite the gentleman. As Kory laughed a little breathlessly as he helped to wipe her cheek and was happy to catch his smile. Rarely anyone got the chance when he was under the hood. As Kory kindly commented. About his smile. His warmth. Endearment, whatever you wanted to call it. Not that he didn't have the bad boy side to him, as Kory alludes with her brow a little. Curiously and quite caring to know if he was free. Of course as her smile picked up after he had helped her. Kory was positive that he'd fix it, rather than say if he could. When did Jason, ever just let something slip him by? Expressing with her hands if there was a place he wanted to visit or even revisit… There had to be something he liked in this city. A diner. A shop. A pool. A park. Amusement park. Kory mildly joked regarding a gun range, her eyes almost looking down, whether she had caught glimpse or not… She had to know they were there. Kory liked to see someone call him insecure to his face. Of course there was mild flirting and suggesting in her last words. The friendly kind, of course.

[Deleted]

The way she touched him was, to say the least, disconcerting. But, positively; in a way that would have demanded all of his attentions had he not already focused himself on Dick's car. Stop that. It's Kori's car, too, imbecile.

Another smug grin tugged at his cheeks as Kori leaned against him, the both of them using the car as an excuse for closeness. Absentmindedly, he fiddled with the car's wires and valves to look busy, but was perhaps a little too caught up in hoping Dick was watching somewhere. It was unlikely, but that possibility made him happier than a little boy with an AK-47. Wait, little boys don't want AK-47s for Christmas? Whoops. Guess he was a special little tot.

"I don't know what's more confusing: human technology or men." She had alluded to 'power sources' as their skin brushed, her heat intensely arousing on his skin. He dared not reply to that, for fear of getting in too deep. But, the statement about technology and men brought yet another hardy chuckle, both at her words and the irresistible tone of voice she spoke them in. "Well, you understand one and you understand them both. They're both pretty simple once you've started to understand, because they both just have a few... core needs." His tone was perhaps more devious than he may have wanted to let out, but what was said was said. If she caught his shifty eye contact, hopefully she would get the message. Unfortunately for her though, there wasn't much he could teach her without getting one -- or both -- of them in trouble.

He was getting closer to getting the car back to working order. Besides retouching a few things that seemed had simply jumped out of place, more likely were undone by Kori's fidgeting before he had noticed her, he was getting to the root of the problem. It wasn't major; something he probably would have fixed with duct tape before the days where he worked legitimately and for money. He went into the car's trunk to take out some schematics of the engine, just to be sure that he wasn't screwing with things that he oughtn't. He greasy fingers left faint fingerprints on the paper pamphlet, ones he wished halfheartedly Dick would see and scan eventually. That ought to set him off. He held back a childish grin.

He glanced up at Kori from the detailed schematics and was somewhat surprised to hear what she was saying; she was talking about Bruce seeing the light, something he had lost hope for it seemed many eons ago. She also mentioned her acceptance of his strategies; his game plan. That kind of thing would have set him off making speeches, but rather he sat almost in shock. He didn't expect this kind of acceptance from Switzerland. It took him a few heartbeats to respond to her road-trip suggestion, to which he needn't even consider alternatives. It was too damn tempting. "A road trip, huh? Not a bad idea. Who'd we drag with us? Harper?" He wasn't sure if the young archer would be up for another adventure, he may have a gig or responsibilities elsewhere. Although, he never knew Roy Harper as a man who took on many responsibilities.

'Manhandling;' inaccurate and yet so damn accurate. He thought of mentioning it to her, correcting her more like, but he pushed the thought away almost as quickly as it had arisen. He didn't need much thought to reply. Conversations with Kori were always this way: instinctual. He didn't need to process each word before he spat it at his feet, not like in most conversations he had. But, this in mind, the people who required you to think everything through required the same thing of themselves. He was just glad Kori knew him well enough that he didn't need to censor himself. "There aren't many places or people in Gotham that I can say I truly miss... save a few." He spared a glance at Kori before continuing, laughing as he spoke again. "Besides, Gotham is my gun range."

[Kory Anders - Starfire]

The ease was always a welcoming thing. As Kory's orange fingers had lightly beat against the rim, probably a little in tune with the previous song that had blared out of the speakers. As the attention was very much on the man with the edge. A little greasy now, Kory sighed comfortably. The city around busy, but little than unaware. Maybe a glare here or there, probably because of the car trouble. Almost like out of a movie, save she wasn't so pale and less damsel. Kory could literally light his buns of fire. Kory thought amusingly as she caught his chuckle, got her meaning as she brushed fingers at his arm. Before a little smirk came to her otherwise perfect lips, in regarding the needs of Men… Technology.

"They both need special attention, or they run the risk of having their wires crossed! Am I close?"

As rather simply the words had come from Kory's mouth, her orange fingers expressing the wires and softly laughed. They may at time confuse her, but both… Human technology and men, could be quite fascinating. Both interesting. So maybe a wild guess, before looking to Jason as she asked and saw the shift in his eyes… Naturally he was up to no good, Kory thought amusingly. Her green eyes followed. Leaned on the side a little. Watching as Jason played doctor to the car. Well Dick's car… Although after him hearing about this there was chances, it officially be hers or it was back on the market… Her elbow on the side of the hood, rested a hand at her orange cheek. Fingers running and tapping a little at her cheek. A little frown, as her eyes watching Jason fix her little efforts previously… That's where she had gone wrong. Held or passed things for him. Least from the looks, she hadn't broken the car, but somehow trying to play off like it didn't happen, later at home… No, Kory couldn't do that. Even if Dick could tell and he could always tell. Many reasons to adore him. Sigh… Before noting the near silence and a slight frown to catch the hint of shock on Jason's face. Her frown settled, she wasn't exactly high on Bruce's list either, rather not dwell on past or even recent events. Least not the bad memories. Those Kory rather forget, or more choose to, but she could understand… Kory beamed with a smile at Jason's not so hesitation on 'road trip'. Of course the was loose in meaning. Maybe even a mini. Short. Anything really, but she did have a home here. A life she was trying to lead as close to Dick as she could.

"The road doesn't need to be very far… Sure, we might need the baby seat!"

Sweetly Kory said with a gentle smile, there could be adventures just around the corner, not to totally burn out possible trips down the track to cities outside, either way going far didn't mean it would be anymore wild. Nodded in taking Roy, he certainly added to the dynamic. As softly Kory laughed of distance fond memories and those of the more present. Maybe it be easier for Roy, friends with both Dick and Jason, was it merely because they were guys. Kory shrugged. Wasn't her place. It was an easy place speaking with Jason, a friend she was very close with, but it was just that friendship. True and natural. Not the man she loved. No, with Dick it was more. Someone Kory was sure she'd see later in the day or evening.. Kory looked to Jason with almost a frown at his words, whilst trying come up with something. Because he could shoot off guns anywhere, but of course the Bat and so forth were here. Though Kory smiled when then Jason assured Kory there were a few. Well! Kory half played with her hair in the gesture! No, no! She was mostly kidding.

"I do have a car, mostly… We could shoot up a bowling alley, Arcade or even go to the strip mall! Unless you have somewhere to be? A business meeting?"

Kory expressed at the car, not that it was surprising, gave him a sincere look, assured it be running in no time. As Kory half playfully through up her hands in directions. Bowling Alley. Arcade. Mall, Which probably housed those and more. Anywhere really. Dropping her hands. Watching him work at the car, of course asking if he had prior arrangements, but was he really a set planning type. If he had a plan, it was was probably diabolical and well, you'd never see it coming… Before her eyes looked back to the building Jason had been standing in front of, that would be a surprise, well not that he didn't look good in a tux. Although with guns in his trousers, that be an interesting meeting…

[Deleted]

The hood of the car cast a shadow of his face that kept his eyes from Kori's line of vision, at least when he was turned to face it. He re-aligned a gasket and twisted till he heard a click, while simultaneously hearing Kori's words behind his ears. His smile never faltered, not with her around and nobody else looming to spoil their good fun (well, at least not in foreseeable gaze or earshot. Gotham's Ghosts seemed to haunt him at every turn.) "They both need special attention, or they run the risk of having their wires crossed! Am I close?" He continued smiling, maybe a renewed smirk in his cheek. He spoke while re-aligning the final gasket in accordance with the car's blueprints and exhaled deeply as he slammed the hood closed in success and murmured a little guarded, "Kori, you never cease to surprise me." Victorious indeed, he took to the front seat, disregarding the completely functional door handle in favor of an agile hop, and turned the key to hear the engine roar as if invigorated by his tinkering. His toothless grin was substituted by a haughty chuckle as he revved the engine and drank in the beauteous steed's roars and the contemptful glares of all the passerby. He noticed a pair of iridescent aviators sitting princely on the dashboard, which he promptly unfolded and put on.

On the off chance that Kori would need an invitation to join him in Dick's fine mount, he grinned up at the alien princess in Dick's fine shades and extended his arm behind the passenger seat's headrest and gestured down with his head. "The road doesn't matter so much to me, what matters is the company." After a second's thought and glance, he responded uncertainly to the possibility of Roy's child tagging along, "But, I'd rather a kid not join us. I've got a feeling the father alone would be an handful," he joked good-naturedly. Yet, with his tone in mind, he honestly would rather not be responsible for the demise of his two best friends as well as an innocent child. It was almost certain that trouble would follow them wherever they went and no matter how close the road. Yet, taking Kori and Roy, Dick's girl and best friend, away from him for even the most minuscule of time would be time well-spent.

Kori's words continued to uplift him, so high as he rarely felt before. The familiar warmth of their friendship, as well as the warmth that radiated off of her in waves even in the midday sun, were sights and sounds that brought back memories he could stand to not forget. In most ways, memories that he considered worth remembering didn't come around too often, at least not in his experience. Then again, one must always consider the company he keeps; or kept, but keeps no longer. It was a recurring thought of his that the company he kept in his past life was what affected him most of all. It was in this way that he scoffed at the people that told him that his return was a "second chance." Those claims were ridiculous. Gotham's dark knight and his pretty birdy boy were ghosts that he couldn't shake, not that he wanted to. If he was going to be killed and be returned from the dead, he was going to be a force to be reckoned with.

His thoughts had brought him down a little, even in the presence of Kori, but he immediately excited his reply instead of remaining somber, laughing as he did almost as if none of his thoughts had come to grip on his mentality. "Kori, my kind of business meetings are on the opposite side of the city. Mr. Wayne is safe... for now." His smile was, in all senses, as diabolical as she expected of him. She was fully aware of his vendetta, but it was on the backburner until he fully established his return to the drug and crime trade with the pawns stuck beneath "Mr. Wayne's" toes. Bruce wasn't running anything he disapproved of, other than a shamefully terrible operation based on pausing the crime rates instead of trying to stop them. But, regardless...

"Point me, Kori, in the direction of Roy Harper. I think it's time we took this reunion seriously."

[Kory Anders - Starfire]

If there was anything more Jason was doing the car, besides fixing it. Kory was much to the blind eye. A little caught up just the mere fact her buddy was back in town or even more just on the radar. He could of been all the way to Florida, for all she knew. Soaking up the sun and the beach. That would be quite the trade up, one Kory wasn't so up set with. Jumped a little as Jason slammed the hood, a little fixated in trying to somewhat know what had been the problem. He didn't even test it first. Kory smiled, of course. Jason knew what he was doing… He always knew what he was doing, even if half the time he was winging it. They really weren't the typical planners. That was quite what made it fun, tagging alongside him. It wasn't like they couldn't get out of danger. Kory grinned sweetly, with colour to her cheeks at Jason's complimentary words. Stepping away from where she had rested upon the car. Motioned closer to the passenger side of the car. Amused as Jason hopped in and awaited for the engine to start… It of course didn't take much convincing. As the car very much fired back with its mighty roar of an engine. It really was quite a nice sound… Although, probably took to Jason more than Kory.. Almost pondered exactly what it was saying to him… She had on occasion kissed a car and yet she didn't exactly speak car. Smiling softly at Jason's reaction and well, quite the cool. Smooth. Fitting with the car. Putting on the sunglasses finished the look. To Kory they were just sunglasses. Her eyes lingering at how high spirited Jason could be, before her smile brightened as Jason mentioned the company and gestured to the seat beside him… Though more gracefully, but hardly not as cool. Kory used the door handle. Falling into the soft leather seat beside Jason… Yes, this felt much better. Someone else driving. Especially Jason.

"X'hal, that's quite poetic of you Jason. I can only hope I am the best kind of company, as you!… It probably be a little dangerous… Hey, you know about Lian! Why am I surprised, of course Roy would have your address…! She's a darling, she really is. I'm sure she will adore you!"

Kory remarked upon his words of company. Smiling sweetly. As Kory got better positioned in the seating… Ooh! Seat belt of course… She had powers, but it depended on how quick her reflexes might be. Commenting kindly in regarding his company. Placed a hand upon his for a moment. He was a good friend. Before shifting her skirt with her hands a little. Much more comfortable. Kory looked to Jason amusingly in regarding Lian, well, she hardly couldn't imagine a baby coming. Though a little baby in back, would look cute. It wouldn't be exactly safe. Before realising Jason knew about the baby. She hadn't been in contact, least not enough to tell him. Looking to Jason knowingly as she mentioned Roy having… Well, potentially meant number… Well, she was here with Jason now and smiled in the chances of Jason meeting the cute bundle of joy. Surely, Roy wouldn't mind him baby sitting… Kory certainly enjoyed it when she could and sometimes even Dick. Even got photos of him a sleep and a baby snuggled up to him. Ah, sweet moment. Kory sighed… Smiled again, of course. There was ride on the town. Did not see a half beaten down zombie! Least what one would expect to see after returning from the dead… Not that he probably wouldn't bite, well shoot someone's brains out.. No, he was quite beautiful resurrected. Meant to be, frankly… Her eyes travelled back to the building as Jason laughed, before back at him with a knowing hint at her smirk… Shaking somehow imagines, had Jason gone up there… A lot of gun fire! She didn't dislike Bruce to that degree. Revenge. Rage, she rather let that go. Despite it could be harder for others.

"You work on ships? I didn't know you liked the ocean that much… Captain… Todd! I like that!!! Right, best I don't ask… Just be nice to Alfred!"

Curiously Kory required, though sure Jason had meant more loosely in regarding business meetings. Especially at the Docklands. Kory raised an amusing brow, was quite happily to imagine even for fun he was a man on a ship. A pirate. She'd already met one of those, but best not to reveal that…. Though it would explain where Jason had been. Having saved him in the ocean. The island, wasn't a great stretch. Resting her head back as the words of Captain and Todd, formed from her lips. Smiling at how she enjoyed that. He was very much leader martial. Shifting her eyes back in regarding Bruce being safe, with an amusing unimpressed look. Not going to step between that war… But couldn't help to object if he had any plans to hunt down the butler. All the times she's had with Alfred, he was a kind man. She really couldn't pin Jason, to hurt Alfred. Jason was a better man, than that.

"Somewhere in Bludhaven, I'd imagine… Though he could be out for all I know! I'm hoping there will be lunch involved… Are you in need of food, Jason?"

Curiously Kory pondered at Jason's words. Trying to know where Roy would be… He was in Bludhaven before she left, but that was a few hours ago… As Kory mentioned half-confident. He couldn't be… Oh who was she kidding. This was Roy. The boy that gave the definition of 'Lost', not that she was proud of that fact. If he wasn't home, he was probably out with Lian. Playing his guitar for extra cash. He was really pushing as much as he can for money, even looking for a job… Maybe. Kory should have asked more precisely before she left. Though felt the tingling emptiness in her stomach, mentioning lunch. She hadn't exactly had it yet, defiantly not in a modelling gig, not that she was a model that starved herself, she liked to be healthy… Whether food on the way to Roy or with Roy. Putting that in Jason's corner to choose. Reaching a hand to the volume dial. Not to high, just enough as Led Zepplin came to offer a nice background music.. She had listened to that most of the driving today. So pressed ejected and put another cd in… Highway to hell, well, not exactly, but for some reason liked the song. Resting back again in her chair. Tapping her fingers. Ready to be taken away.

[Deleted]

He loved Kori. Of that he had no doubt. Their relationship was always merited a brightly-lit shelf in his heart, and it had always been that way. Well, except maybe the very first moment they met and he was butt naked. Besides that, they had always retained a special bond unlike a lot of things he had encountered. It was nothing like the strained relationship he had had with her boy-toy, Dick Grayson, and was hardly comparable to the malformed father-son relationship he had with Bruce. It was a love and friendship in its own right. But, there was always that element that he never fully understood everything about Kori or comprehended every action, not like the predictable ways of Bruce Wayne or his multitude of sidekicks. "Justice. Peace. Blah blah blah," and all that jazz. Maybe it was that their relationship was so contrasted to any he had experienced, so he wasn't able to understand all of the moving parts. Or it was something else entirely; her alien ways were just that: alien to him.

For reasons he never truly understood, Kori befriended perhaps one of the most ill-begotten vigilantes in perhaps the most terrifying city in the world. No, I'm not talking about her boyfriend, I'm talking about me. Why would she, purposefully or not, choose to befriend me and not shy away from someone so obviously troubled? Troubled people only attracted troubled people, but it could be reasonably assumed that Kori had put her past behind her. She didn't go on a rampage, didn't turn into a dark form of herself, and she was always a shining light in a shadowed city. That was what he never understood.

All of his thoughts were churning in his head like a relentless and cavernous sea. His practiced tactic of controlling his thoughts and emotions so that the two didn't mix proceeded as his gloomy reverie and Kori's jubilant piping were intersecting at the same wavelength. "Hey, you know about Lian! Why am I surprised, of course Roy would have your address…! She's a darling, she really is. I'm sure she will adore you!" It took him only a second to separate his inner emotions from his outer thoughts. Babysitting? An image flashed through his mind of him parkouring buildings with a baby lashed to his back. Something about it seemed unseemly, but oddly tempting. Roy's kid would hopefully like the nightlife like his father did. But, he pushed those thoughts aside with the excuse of impossibility. He would never be trusted with a twerp, much less would he accept... probably. But probability was a fickle thing. "Actually, we haven't spoken since the three of us were last together. I've just been hearing the hype for longer than you think." He referenced his short stay in Bludhaven. He only stayed for a night and treated himself to one of the nicer hotels, just to be on the safe side. He didn't want to stir up too much trouble before his plan began to pan out. He had listened to a police radio much of the night, but had made some calls to some old gang connections to get the scoop on the big gig: Gotham. From what his squats told him, the streets were far from clean. But, he hadn't expected them to be. Batman wasn't changing and neither was Gotham. He did pick up some tips from the bar crowd that Harper had been drinking to celebrate the arrival of his new daughter. Originally, the thought made him cringe, but he had come to accept his good friend's new role. Mind you, the thought still scared him a bit.

"You work on ships? I didn't know you liked the ocean that much… Captain… Todd! I like that!!! Right, best I don't ask… Just be nice to Alfred!" He... was a little speechless, or at least unwilling to reply to her assumption of him being a 'captain.' Also, the concept of harming Alfred was more insulting than he had expected. He had never considered Alfred as a significant figure to him, yet harming him caused him grief. Fancy that. Regardless, he chuckled at Kori's unmentionably inaccurate sailor assumption, but otherwise didn't reply only because he figured Kori wasn't an idiot and knew he wasn't the sailor type. "Don't worry, Alfred has no quarrel with me."

Immediately after Kori mentioned Bludhaven, he grabbed the clutch and shot out into the now-vacant street in the direction of the bridge toward Bludhaven. He was pushing the speed limit, but the car revved almost like it craved higher speeds. Happy to oblige, they zoomed up and past the speed limit while crossing the bridge and dodging slower cars with a practiced dexterity. He pointed out food places as he passed them and circled back so she could choose where she wanted to eat, because she was obviously hungry. "Where did you have in mind? It doesn't matter to me; food is food." His tastes, he could only imagine, were far less refined than hers. Sure, he had higher pleasures in cars and machine guns, but that was because he was a materially-centered man. The only thing the needed to be high-quality was knives and crowbars. Food was too immaterial to matter. Yet, on one plane, she experienced the same hardships of being on the run as he often did, yet she led a life in Bludhaven that was intricately contrasting to the roadtrip period they lived together. A part of him wanted to taste the more suave life she led with Dick (absent the Dick part, of course) and another repulsed it with every fibre of his being. Who's to say what kind of life he would have ten years from now? No matter how much he abhorred the change he went through to get where he was, he knew it made him and he knew that change was going to come again. He was just going to kick change in the nuts before change had the chance to kick him.

[Kory Anders - Starfire]

As Kory loved Jason… Wasn't he the one that said in regards to friendship and romance in stating they weren't so different. Just variations of the same love. To be close to somebody. Someone that knows you… This was friendship. Friendship wasn't about making sense. It was about what felt right. He wasn't pure with a heart of gold. No, but he was real. It needed little detailing, other in the fact she did like him. He understood her, more than he was giving himself credit for. He was maybe not that Dick Grayson was to her, that was a lifetime of memories, no one could simply wave a wand at. Jason was, Jason. Kory happily smiled across from her seat in the car… In Gotham, of all places. It was not the city that had drawn her here in the first place… Kory was warmth. Light. Not that she couldn't be violent, but merely not wanting to become Komand'r, was part of the reason. How Kory was the way she was. Kory could never give up. Be weak! Be a slave again! Whether anyone understood it. Kory was living it. Living now and not in the past. In a car, with a friend… With a mild breeze through their hair and a road before them… Was that meant to be metaphorical? Not really for her to say… She was delighted that Jason had known or least assumed he had kept in touch. In the manner of closeness. As annoying as Roy could be as Jason would and even on occasions Kory, he was undoubtedly caring. Loyal. A great friend. Kory looked to him a little sadly, at Jason mentioning quite the opposite of staying in touch.

"I'm surprised… Then there is a lot of catching up… Roy will be glad too see you… Why, Jason!… Actually that is rather sweet!"

Kory remarked simply. Kindly. As her green eyes pondered upon Jason, curious… So out of touch and yet… Wanted to be… All he could have done, but even thinking it. Kory could simply see Jason was here now… That was what was important. Picking up the spirits, there was a lot Jason had missed out, least conversations… From the sounds. As Kory gave him a curious yet playful look, as if he was admitting he was spying. Almost a suspicious look, laughing under her breath… Like she could really keep a straight face from him. Though in honesty as Kory thought about it. As he was watching over… It was quite endearing. Least she knew Jason, well enough to know he cared… Those close to him. Kory smiled warmly to him, well maybe it had been on accident that he heard to begin with… Either way, sweet. Though her smile faded, in a hint of sadness… Not from Jason, but if he knew more from what he said… Did know about Scarecrow? Kory had much wanted to put the bad memories behind, but it still lingered. What happened. What he had her do…. Sad look didn't last long, that was yesterday. Kory frowned as if she needing to convince herself… She was here now. Today… Mostly. Kory looking over as Jason was… Stunned… That was either a good thing or a bad thing… Hopefully he realised, Kory was being sarcastic. Although she had more implied he was a pirate.. Than a sailor. Pirate, was just more his bad ass style. No, he was better than a pirate. Kory smiled softly. Reached a hand to his. Reassuring that she did see Jason… Not some jaded mask of a man…

"I apologise, Jason… I shouldn't of thought, even for a moment… I know the good person that you are…"

Sincerely Kory spoke… When she was at fault, she could own up to it. Even as she spoke wondering how she could even of assumed. Thought. Her hand tightened at his, just a little pressure to assure. If Kory was guilty, it was being protective, very protective of her friends. It made her dangerous to foes, for sure. Of course friend against another friend, that was a little different. Odd at the same time… The world she came from, one would never be suspicious of a friend. Not until Komand'r… That was decidedly different… Jason was good. Better than he probably would say himself. Did he do bad things? Sure, he's not exactly a saint, but who really is? Her hand had let go at the point. Jason grabbed to put the car in motion. In the direction of Bludhaven. The speed was nice. Much faster than she had intended earlier when she had driven… Felt the wind gush through her hair. Smiles were hard not to come by now. Lifting her arms up at one point. Free! Not like a bird, but still. Free! She laughed softly, before rested in her chair. Heading over the bridge… Gave her the general stirring feelings… "Dick, I will be home soon" It would always bring the beautiful colours to her cheeks. Well, there was still sometime, maybe until then, but he was undoubtedly closer to her now. Felt the slight ache in her seating… Eyes motioned across as Jason asked for her preference. Before looking to Jason, with his almost distaste to food…

"I understand… I took you for someone that takes care of what goes in his body… You know I've been learning to cook, would that still be just food? Well, I'm no princess of england, but they have good noodles. That has nice subs… Oh n that has some really good pies!"

Nodding humbly with a smile to her buddy. He was defiantly one for the more simple things. Mostly Kory liked food, apart from the healthy benefit, the company with food, could be quite nice. She brightened with an intended playful light smile and joke in regarding what goes in his body. Her hand half grabbing at his muscles. He was defiantly not out of shape, as Kory half winked to her friend… Before of course mentioning she could cook. Well she was still learning. Although maybe he knew about that as well, either way as her green eyes slowly looked over him. Would he be not interested in her cooking, whilst he was here at all? Kory wondered. She really quite liked cooking, especially for her friends. Even if it was just food, Kory pondered… Before smiling with a shrug. Joking she was no princess of Earth. Before happily pointing out some options. She had the class of a tamaranean, but a tamaranean was about joy, than wealth or power. Money hardly meant anything to her. She could find joy in things that couldn't cost a dime. Like Jason. Even as simple, as Cotton Candy.

[Deleted]

It might have been something about the way Kori saw everything he did in a different light, perhaps a brighter one that could see the detail. Or maybe he just didn't understand himself as much as he thought he did. Sweet wasn't exactly the first word that came to mind when he wanted to describe himself; describe anything he did. And, maybe it was just the smog hanging off Gotham talking, but thought it was nothing short of a miracle that anyone could see that far into him. He hadn't intended to be sweet. But, in hindsight, maybe it was that way... He was just being protective. Since his good friend was dragged into it, and considering he often needed protecting, it was alñ but habitual to use all of his assets toward getting the information and keeping Roy and Gotham relatively safe. (Safe being the variable word.) Nothing on earth besides Kori would have told him that staying up all night and listening to police scanners and simultaneous plotting revenge was sweet. Kori always saw things differently, perhaps better. Call it a talent or a curse, that was what it was. "I'm actually looking forward to seeing Roy too. I just have my own way of... showing it." He smiled meekly at her, but a poisonous thought rang through his mind as his last word faded away.

Problems expressing emotions?

Sound like any other batarang-slinging vigilante you know?

The willingness with which Kori apologized gave him heart palpitations. He felt guilty for being offended. Is that normal? "Kori, you know me better than anyone. I know you didn't mean to insult me, how could you? The last time you meant to harm me was never." He grinned up at her. He wasn't a mushy person, on the whole, but then most men his age liked to say that sort of thing. Out of context, he probably would have denied such heartwarming compliments because that's what guys do. They hate showing weakness or letting others see the side of them that they don't censor. For Jason, it was a little more complicated than that. He did wholeheartedly believe in a lot of things, even when that meant disbelieving in just as many things. On such topics censoring wasn't necessary and it wouldn't do well to protagonize his mission. But censoring topics and censoring emotions were two planes that rarely touched. He just hoped he would be far away when they inevitably did.

The conversation shifted to food. He wasn't notably hungry, but a man's stomach was never full. Price wasn't an obstacle; stealing from international criminals did have its positives, but he never liked to go overboard. It captured too much attention. It wasn't so much that he didn't enjoy attention, which he did, it was more that attention endangered the mission. And the mission objectives overcame all else indisputably. 

He heard Kori's suggestions, but disregarded most of them. Pies and noodles didn't sound all that appetizing. He eventually settled on a diner that seemed inconspicuous enough.

The door clanged as he opened it, signaling another customer as a waitress appeared from behind the counter and tried to sit them in a corner booth.

"It's alright. I was hoping to just get some food to go." The waitress, eyes twinkling flirtatiously, insisted, "Are you sure? I could get you and your date some coffee on the house if you... stayed awhile." He chuckled lightly, shaking his head and daring to ghost his hand along the waitress' waistline. "Oh no, she isn't my date." He glanced over at Kori as he said this and added, "Just friends." The waitress proceeded to sit them at the counter, whip out her notepad and pour over Jason's order while barely crossing eyes with Kori. He chuckled inwardly, but otherwise didn't take note of her actions while he absentmindedly played with the menu on the counter. His eyes were distant, but no thoughts crossed his mind. It was pleasant. The fleeting chance he got to not think about anything, to just pretend that he was just in a man in a diner, just ordering a burger, just sitting with a woman... Well, it was beyond pleasant, needless to say. Sometimes he wished he wished he was just a civilian, but somewhere deep inside he knew it was a futile and infertile wish.

[Kory Anders - Starfire]

Zoom! Zoom! Sitting in the passenger side of the very… Well, extremely. Fast car, with Todd. Jason Todd at the wheel. Driving down the highway… Possibly looking for an adventure… With the joyful spirits of Kory and from the sounds the kidnapping of Roy. Which seemed an odd thing to kidnap, but he was certainly not without his many. Many charms. Now, Mr Daddy Gorgeous, it was surprising he could be anymore humbling. Beating a couple of fingers to the beat. This really was such pleasant company. Jason he was oh so very sweet. Warm. Was there danger. Yes, only added to his 'coolness'. Had issues, but he was… Working through them… At a pace. Who really didn't have issues and compared to most of the maniacs in town… He was the wild cherry. In all manner of speaking. There was a striking look on her face at Jason's words… Confession, of something utterly… Sweet. Felt the pull at his sincerity. It was very becoming of him. Honesty. Raw. Open… In all his hiding glory, was sometimes so plain to see… Not exactly plain, he was the more special kind of plain.

"We wouldn't want it any other way, Jason. Why would you be someone that you're not. It just isn't… You!"

Now that's quite the X'hal's honest truth. If Kory could put it frankly with him. Of course in the most humble, kind and positive way. As her eyes true to him as if Jason was almost trying to hide, the words that had almost fade, as if he was at guilt… Guilt in something he needn't feel bad for. Was he a little guarded, sure. Sometimes it took a little more time than others, to find themselves, but Jason was certainly not short in trying. Trying and was himself, not trying to be someone else… Even in the Red Hood, even though his face was much hidden from the world. That was merely cosmetic, but the Red Hood was his mask. His alone. Robin had been a mask given to him and he quite fit it well, when he did. Now, after having his life strung to the frays, he taking it back. Maybe Kory saw him to well not to see Jason. Hmmm, maybe it was the jacket. Kory pondered seemingly from the short distance in the car. Her green eyes hadn't quite forgotten that jacket… Or maybe it was the guns… Maybe. Or maybe it was the thudding spirit she felt course through. Gave him life. He had good buns, swell. Kory laughed silently as her eyes motioned back to the road. He was good all over, in the most Jason of ways. Why would she expect anything else. Or anyone else.

"… Jason, I believe you're what Ryand'r was to me, … Least in that sort of connection… Only, something more. At least I hope… Does that make sense?… No, nearly burning you're buns on occasion. Wouldn't count!!"

There was a moment silence. Her lips motioned a sound, but what could she ad to what Jason had just said. He wasn't mushy. Least not every waking hour, which was good, it left something more when he was being sincere. Kory breathed a soft sigh and soft look as Jason grinned at her. With a simple little laugh, not at him. As sincere one no doubt. Not so much biting the inside of her cheek now. As Kory looked to Jason, trying to express what the friendship between was like. Mentioning her brother's name, Jason had to of known. Kory wasn't one for comparison as made sure to say in simply the connection. Least it had something familiar. Not entirely sure, if saying Brother, was even really a correct word, but there was an essence Jason would protect her. Watch out for her, much in ways she would return the favour… Though it was more as she said, her relationship with her brother, had been civil and there was the love of family, but he hadn't exactly tried to save her any more than the rest of Tamaran, not that Kory would exactly say it like so… But, Jason… Well, there was more. He would do more. As Kory had turned to him at this point at the question… Before her added response to whether she'd hurt him… Least not intentionally… There was maybe a couple near misses, even probably when he blocked the telly. Kory looked to him amusingly and then laughed. Soon coming to a stop at a cute Diner… Wow, he really did have fine taste… It looked utterly so good. Though she was hoping for something a little special… Jason was back in town after all. Though have no fear, Kory was sure there be something special in this diner… Oddly, she hadn't imagined a somebody… As soon on tail, they were greeted by a waitress… Or least, Jason was. Kory thought it was cute, playing it cool, but any wrong step, she might be a little suspicious of the waitress, but Jason could of course take care of himself… Right? Kory looked to him with a curious almost frown as he spoke and then looked at her. As if almost to say 'What?'. As if he needed clarification. Though Kory could question was this not a date. A date among friends, just with no over the sweater action. Crossed her arms with her suspicious look at his 'just friends', shaking her head at him with amusement.

"Strictly casual!"

Kory added, though whether it heeded anyone's attention was another thing. Though suppose the waitress was kind of cute, but Kory was still seemingly more aware. Not that the waitress was unkind… Who could knock back free coffee. Following them in toe, to a nice little booth… By a window. Still mighty nice out. Good day out with a buddy. Kory smiled to Jason as the lady pulled out her notepad. Getting comfy in the seating, Kory was pondering about staying that while. Even for a little bit. Maybe… As Kory opened the menu. Fingers scrolling the many options… Stopping. An intriguing look on her face, as if she had a secret, but she was not very good at secrets. As a cute smile came to her lips. Tapping that spot a little, before shifting attention to the waitress at hand… Bethany? From the looks of the tag.

"In place of coffee, I'd like some orange juice, Please… If it isn't too much trouble… Also… Well, you see… My friend here, Jason! Has just come back into town, so I'm wondering if we could split a banana to mark the occasion, whilst we wait for our main food to go!"

Coffee was just the last thing Kory needed, that would be like adding to the already high energy, plus she wanting something more chilled, it was still quite warm for summer. Orange juice, there possible snickering from the waitress, as if odd the orange-skinned lady ordering orange juice. Kory at this point ignored that kind of behaviour…. The waitress though happily mentioned that was fine and marked it down on her notepad, though eyes wandering back to Jason. Whether she was really interesting in his drink preference, or something else… Kory peeped in as she wanted to add to the order. Kory's eyes moving a little between them. What was with humans, lack of names… Though there was chances Kory said Jason, because he left hers out and in jest of saying just friend. Which they were, well close friends. Of course mostly in fun as Kory looked to him amusingly. Before straightened up enough to make her order. Basically taking up on the offer to stay awhile, which worked in everyone favour. More time for the waitress and time to celebrate Jason's return. Ordering dessert before main, was maybe unconventional, but they were already unconventional. Suggestion they still take food to go, but a little something special. Bethany least seemed pleased. Was content in writing it down. "Certainly, so you want a banana-split to share?… I'll give you some time on the food to go…"

"Yes, that's what I said… Thank-you! Oh…!"

Nodded Kory truthfully, not a sharp on her tongue, but tone as if she had been misunderstood. Anything she let that go easily… Although having been Jason's special occasion, he probably could of picked something else, but Kory was sure she knew him well enough… Plus from the looks of the menu this was very good banana split. Sharing of course, because they were friends. Thanking the waitress. Surely she had taken Jason's choice of brewage by now. Before Bethany left to ring it in, Kory stopped her for a moment. Whispering in her ear. Which Bethany smiled and went about her business… Kory sat back into the chair. Eyes moved back to Jason. This was rather low-key, normalcy. Though hardly anything about them was considered normal. She was out of this world and he was practically a zombie from the underworld. Only far more attractive kind. Yet, here they were. Common ground. Looking back at the menu. It was possible after the dessert, she probably be filled enough, but the food did sound good. Maybe even just a little on the go. Though Jason was all man, he ate just as much as Roy and maybe Dick as times. Hmmm, now that was a body… SNAP! Focus!

"She was cute, Jason… 'Just friends', I thought Roy was your wingman… Thinking of asking for her address? If she does anything bad to you… End of the line, she wouldn't even be on the line!… I'm sure she is lovely, though!"

Commented. Remarked Kory in a curious tone… There goes possibly any questions if he had a special lady in his life, or had met someone…. Repeating his 'Just Friends' as if he intending to pick up as well of course being honest, but Kory couldn't help not see the picking up going on… Usually this is what happened when Roy and Jason went to a bar. Not that she wouldn't be a good wingman, she just wasn't a guy. Unless Jason wanted to come on dates with her and Dick, she thought amusingly. Even if it wasn't Dick, which seemed unbearable to imagine. Jason would be able to sit there without a glimmer of something…. Smiled as Kory asked if he'd ask her for her address. Could have meant her number, but usually from what she knew, it generally led with the eventually ending up at a house… Sometimes not even in a house, just some… Location… Though her general protective self of her friends, if the girl did do anything to hurt him. Not that she would ever seek revenger. As her hand dramatically and in her utter natural cuteness expressed Bethany be at the back of the line…. Not even on the line… Before the little hint of aggression faded and Kory went more positive… Less worries on Jason's head.

"So what food interests you? Oh… Look… There's a burger called 'Hubcap'…. Or 'Two Tons Of Fun'… I'm contemplating on the Grilled-Chicken sandwich, it sounds wonderful… Maybe split some 'smiley fries'?… I'm intrigued!"

Turning back to the topic of the food. As her elbows half on the table almost peering over to what Jason was looking at. Very much interested, before remarked at what she found on the menu. Stretched a little more, Kory's finger pointed on Jason's menu the so called "hubcap' Burger, Kory laughed a little amused and quite because it seemed almost fitting. Especially on this day… Although, a burger that expressed fun, wouldn't be easy to knock back either. Rising the casual comfortable ton among friends. If this was a date, she'd probably be watching her figure even more well that and if she wasn't tamaranean… She did watch her figure in general she was a model and she was able to gain weight, but more… Kory did portion control, than simply banning any or all foods together… Which as she scrolled. Mentioning fries with smiles, she might just have to try… Offering Jason a cute suspicious look, she was tamaranean. She was joy. Sometimes found it easier to find. Whether in a burger, fries or even in tiny hairs in Jason's eyebrows… Which as she looked, realising some time had passed since the last time she had tweezed them. Most likely began for a date he had… Not dramatic… Just a little tidy up, helped give a little something to his handsomeness. A friend, lending a hand.

Some time passed and finally the special dessert was brought out… Banana split and beverages in the waitresses hands. Were soon delivered on the table, between Jason and Kory, two spoons… Noting the two sparklers that crackled. Kory smiled sweetly, thanking the waitress and looking to Jason. The banana split was served with Chocolate, strawberry and Vanilla ice cream. All three. Hot chocolate fudge. Strawberry topping. Pineapple topping. Crushed nuts, no pun intended. Whipped cream. Even a cherry on top. This was one Banana split. Though before the waitress left, was probably a good time to finish off the order for the food to go. That's if they had enough room… When the waitress did leave…

"Here. You might need this!… "

Kory joked… Yes, she capable of a joke. As her hand reached for the cherry on the banana split and motioned to hand it to Jason. Laughing softly and then breathed sigh. This really was nice. Fun. Comforting. He probably wasn't one for the big shebang celebration thing and it was that thing what do you get a friend, when you could simply give them the world. Or least something as fitting… Somehow, something as simple as a dessert, seemed more than special. As it really was the company after all that was the real sparkler, but it was a little gesture. As welcoming. Picking up a sparkler and if by chances Jason picked up the other. Sparked them together… Almost like Star Wars!

[Deleted]

He was happy to move on from one of their more ginger topics: feelings. Eck. But who could blame him, what with the life he's had. And yet, every word similar to ass (grebnecks, buns, and the like) brought a still brighter smile to his face. For once he was glad he wasn't wearing his helmet. Kori deserved to see the full expressions, unhindered by the red covering. His only real response to Kori's words was a hearty laugh and radiant smile, which didn't come around often except around her. She was different than most of his other compatriots. Well... save for Roy, but he was a special case in more ways than one.

"Strictly casual!" He smirked outwardly at her while her words still stung somewhere inside, somewhere he wouldn't mind if it just fell out. Hearts; who needs 'em. He meant to say something similar to cut at her. Her reciprocation immediately caused him to regret his ill-meaning words. She only said what she meant, with no alternate intentions, and he should too. But... he didn't stop himself. It depressed him more than it should have.

As they were seated, and Jason spouted his order briefly, Kori was more eloquent in her own. "In place of coffee, I'd like some orange juice, Please… If it isn't too much trouble… Also… Well, you see… My friend here, Jason! Has just come back into town, so I'm wondering if we could split a banana to mark the occasion, whilst we wait for our main food to go!" The waitress was all too willing to, as she smiled down at him, turned to the counter, and stuck the order to the chef. Something subliminal thanked whatever cosmic beings there may be that Kori didn't accept the coffee. He however, had gotten little sleep the past few days and needed the brew like he needed oxygen. It wasn't an addiction. There were other ways for that. Kori thanked the girl, who introduced herself as Lyla, and sent her off to get the banana split. He was surprised by that. He began to refuse, "Kori, y'know, I'm really not an ice cream kind of guy..." But ultimately he knew it was futile. Princess Koriand'r would get her way. One way or another, it was inevitable. So, his refusals were minimal.

Surprising him further, Kori spoke up as Lyla busied herself in the kitchen. "She was cute, Jason… 'Just friends', I thought Roy was your wingman… Thinking of asking for her address? If she does anything bad to you… End of the line, she wouldn't even be on the line!… I'm sure she is lovely, though!" The way her words took several different tones, all within a short period in which she spoke them, entertained him immensely. And he knew that every word of it was said without alternate purpose. That kind of confidence made him glad to have friends like her and Roy and regret knowing that almost every word he said to anyone else was not said with the same morals in mind. Despite how familiar Roy and Kori were with the two-faced world, they still retained only one face. It was admirable.

He chuckled at her good-naturedly. "Yeah, well... she's really not my type." He excused away the feelings, as per usual. It was this way with Isabel until he gave in and eventually sent her to the hospital with Joker's trademark trail of violence and chaos. She was just an innocent flight attendant, the same way that Lyla was an innocent waitress. He refused to let it happen again. End of story; goodbye; the end.

He looked at Kori as she began to suggest items on the menu. He looked on haphazardly. "It doesn't matter to me, Kor. I'm paying; get whatever sounds good." He paused, thinking for only a heartbeat, and added, "And pick something good out for me, too." He shot a sideways grin at her as he gripped the table maybe a little too hard. He heard faint wooden creaks and loosened his grip. He was only anxious to get the food and go, before the waitress could shove any more tantalizing information on him. There was no doubt he had the skills to track her down, even with just a name. Any more information... and it could be too tempting to pass up.

"Just... don't take forever, okay?"