Norman Osborn was exactly as Bruce remembered him—brilliant, intense, and perpetually dissatisfied. The CEO of Oscorp paced Bruce's office rather than sitting, his lanky frame moving with nervous energy as he outlined his proposal.
"A joint venture between Oscorp's biotechnology division and Wayne Enterprises' medical research wing makes perfect sense, Bruce. Your father's legacy in medical innovation combined with our advances in genetic engineering could revolutionize treatment protocols for previously incurable conditions."
Bruce maintained his facade of polite interest while mentally cataloging the details that didn't add up. Oscorp's recent research directions had veered toward military applications—performance enhancement, tissue regeneration, pain suppression. All ostensibly for medical purposes, but with obvious battlefield applications.
"It's an interesting proposal, Norman," Bruce replied, deliberately vague. "Though I notice your presentation doesn't detail the specific research directions this joint venture would pursue."
Osborn waved a dismissive hand. "Details to be determined by our respective research teams, of course. The important thing is securing the partnership framework before others move into this space."
"Others such as Luthor?"
A flash of irritation crossed Osborn's features before he controlled it. "Lex is a tech innovator, not a true scientist. His understanding of biological systems is... limited." He leaned forward, lowering his voice conspiratorially. "Between us, Bruce, there's another player entering this field. Advanced Idea Mechanics—AIM. They're pursuing aggressive biotech research with concerning ethical implications."
Bruce watched Osborn carefully as he spoke. The man's transition from casual business associate to confidant conveyed a practiced charm that belied his reputation for ruthlessness. Two Oscorp researchers had approached Wayne Enterprises last month with disturbing stories of unauthorized human trials and data falsification. They'd disappeared less than a week later—official story claiming they'd accepted lucrative positions with a Singapore firm. The Wayne Enterprises investigation had stalled when key evidence mysteriously vanished.
"Send the full proposal to my legal team, Norman. We'll review it thoroughly." Bruce stood, signaling the meeting's end. "And I'd be interested in any concrete intelligence you have on AIM's activities."
Osborn seemed ready to press his case further but instead nodded curtly. "You're making a mistake if you delay, Bruce. The marketplace waits for no one." He gathered his materials with quick, efficient movements. "I'll be at the gala tonight. Perhaps we can continue our discussion in a more... social setting."
After Osborn's departure, Bruce had precisely eight minutes before his meeting with Luthor. He used them to contact Alfred.
"What do we have on Advanced Idea Mechanics?"
Alfred's voice came through the secure line, crisp and professional. "A relatively new scientific organization, sir, though with substantial funding from unknown sources. Primarily focused on cutting-edge technology development. They've been recruiting aggressively from top research institutions, particularly those with expertise in biological enhancement and weaponry."
"Connection to Osborn?"
"None directly evident, though they've approached several former Oscorp scientists. Their founder, Aldrich Killian, previously sought funding from both Stark Industries and Oscorp for experimental regenerative technologies. Both companies declined."
Bruce tapped his fingers on the desk, piecing together the pattern. After the Metallo incident two years ago and Tony Stark's "I am Iron Man" revelation, the corporate arms race had intensified. Stark's pivot away from weapons hadn't diminished the market—it had simply created opportunities for companies like Oscorp and LexCorp to fill the void. Each was pursuing their own version of enhanced human capability, though their methodologies differed dramatically.
"Add them to our monitoring list. And what about tonight's gala? Any security concerns?"
"Nothing concrete, sir. Though with Councilman Grogan attending alongside both Osborn and Luthor, it promises to be an interesting evening in multiple respects."
Bruce's intercom buzzed. "Mr. Luthor has arrived, Mr. Wayne," Jessica announced.
"Send him in. And have Fox join us."
Bruce moved to the windows of his office, gazing out at Gotham's skyline as he prepared for his next visitor. The city stretched before him, a stark contrast of architectural grandeur and decaying infrastructure. Seven years since he'd returned, seven years of Batman's nightly patrols, and sometimes it seemed nothing changed. The corrupt still thrived, the innocent still suffered. But there were differences—subtle but real. Crime rates in certain districts had dropped. Corrupt officers found themselves increasingly isolated within the GCPD. Gordon's quiet revolution was yielding results, however incremental.
The door opened, interrupting his thoughts. Bruce turned, his features settling into the carefully cultivated mask of Bruce Wayne, billionaire playboy—affable, slightly distracted, fundamentally unserious.
Lex Luthor strode into Bruce's office with the confident bearing of someone accustomed to commanding attention. In the two years since their last encounter, Luthor had shed his more obvious rough edges, replacing them with polished charisma and carefully cultivated gravitas. His bald head, once a subject of media jokes, now contributed to a distinctive appearance that featured prominently in LexCorp's aggressive rebranding.
"Bruce Wayne," Luthor said with a smile that didn't quite reach his eyes. "Always a pleasure to reconnect with a fellow corporate visionary."
Bruce offered a handshake that was firm but deliberately unremarkable. "Lex. Congratulations on LexCorp's turnaround. The market has responded well to your focus on technological innovation."
"Innovation is merely the beginning," Luthor replied, taking a seat without waiting for invitation. "The future belongs to those who cannot only develop new technologies but strategically deploy them to address emerging threats."
Bruce cataloged the subtle differences in Luthor compared to their last meeting. His posture was more relaxed, his gestures more measured—a man who believed he had nothing to prove. The transformation of LuthorCorp into LexCorp following his father's death had been masterfully executed. Lex had presented himself as the whistleblower who exposed his father's illegal weapons programs, the reformer committed to ethical innovation. Bruce had his doubts about that narrative, but the evidence trail had conveniently disappeared along with Lionel Luthor.
Fox entered quietly, nodding politely to Luthor before taking a position slightly behind Bruce's right shoulder.
"Ah, the legendary Lucius Fox," Luthor acknowledged. "Your reputation precedes you. I've studied several of your patents. Brilliant work, particularly the applications of memory cloth technology."
Fox's expression remained neutral. "Thank you, Mr. Luthor. Though I'm curious why LexCorp's CEO would take personal interest in fabric technology patents."
"Because I see connections others miss. Which brings me to the purpose of this meeting." He retrieved a sleek tablet from his briefcase, activating a holographic display that hovered above Bruce's desk.
The image showed satellite footage of the Metropolis incident from two years prior—Superman battling the cybernetic Metallo amid catastrophic destruction, the tri-colored radiation from Metallo's cores illuminating the night sky in eerie patterns.
"Two years ago, Earth discovered it is not alone in the universe," Luthor said, his voice taking on a lecturer's tone. "The appearance of Superman changed everything—not just for Metropolis, but for human civilization itself."
Bruce maintained his expression of mild interest, though internally he noted how Luthor's eyes hardened when mentioning Superman. The animosity wasn't entirely surprising—Superman had taken Metallo into the upper atmosphere during their final confrontation, sacrificing himself to prevent the unstable radiation cores from detonating over the city. His miraculous survival had spoiled whatever plans Lex had been orchestrating with his father's weapons programs. Bruce had been there that night, the Batwing tracking the battle, his own intervention nearly costing him his life from radiation exposure. He'd pieced together enough of the events to recognize Lex's careful positioning before and after his father's death.
"What does this have to do with Wayne Enterprises, Lex?"
"Everything." Luthor manipulated the display, showing technical schematics for what appeared to be advanced detection systems. "I'm proposing a joint security initiative between LexCorp and Wayne Enterprises. Your company's sensor technology combined with our quantum computing capabilities could create an early warning system for extraterrestrial threats."
Fox leaned forward, professional interest momentarily overriding his suspicion. "These detection parameters are extremely specific."
"They're calibrated to identify Kryptonian energy signatures," Luthor confirmed. "Based on data collected during the Metropolis incident."
"And where exactly did you obtain this data?" Bruce asked, his tone deliberately casual.
Luthor's smile never faltered. "LexCorp led several of the cleanup operations, Bruce. We had unique access to... residual evidence."
"Evidence that should have been turned over to government authorities," Fox noted.
"Which government? The one that fumbled the initial response to Superman's appearance? The agencies that couldn't even coordinate during the Metallo incident until it was almost too late?" Luthor's expression turned earnest, almost evangelical. "This is bigger than national interests. This is about humanity's survival."
Bruce leaned back, adopting the posture of someone considering a business proposition rather than a potential threat. "So you're proposing what exactly? A global early warning system for alien invasion?"
"Initially, yes. With potential for expansion into defensive capabilities." Luthor seemed pleased that Bruce was engaging with the concept. "Wayne Enterprises' satellite network combined with LexCorp's quantum processing could provide coverage across the entire planet. We'd detect any Kryptonian or similar energy signature the moment it entered Earth's atmosphere."
Bruce studied Luthor's proposal with the practiced eye of someone who had spent years analyzing threats. The technology itself was impressive—Lex had clearly invested significant resources in understanding the Kryptonian threat. But the application raised uncomfortable questions. This wasn't merely defensive; it was surveillance on a scale that made Bruce's own monitoring systems seem limited by comparison.
"And then what?" Bruce asked. "Issue a public alert? Notify military authorities?"
"That would depend on the specific threat assessment," Luthor replied smoothly. "The important thing is establishing the capacity to know when we're not alone."
Bruce exchanged a glance with Fox, a silent communication born of years working together. Fox's slight head tilt confirmed his own assessment: Luthor wanted access to Wayne Enterprises' satellite network and sensor technology for purposes likely beyond what he was stating.
"It's an interesting proposal, Lex. Though I'm surprised you'd approach Wayne Enterprises rather than Stark Industries. Tony's been quite public about his interest in global security initiatives."
A flicker of annoyance crossed Luthor's features. "Stark is... unpredictable. And his technological approach lacks subtlety. This initiative requires discretion and methodical development."
Bruce recognized the deflection in Luthor's statement. The truth was that Bruce and Tony had maintained a productive technological partnership since the Gulmira incident two years ago. They'd quietly collaborated on multiple projects, from Batman's improved tactical systems to refinements in Iron Man's armor that could withstand kryptonite radiation. Tony's public revelation as Iron Man had simply moved some of their work into different channels, with Bruce deliberately maintaining his frivolous public persona to keep Batman's tech advancements separated from Wayne Enterprises' official projects.
"I'll need time to review the technical specifications," Bruce said, neither accepting nor rejecting the proposal outright. "Our board has just reaffirmed Wayne Enterprises' commitment to defensive rather than offensive technologies. Any partnership would need to align with that philosophy."
Luthor nodded, seemingly satisfied to have made his pitch. "Of course. Take all the time you need." He closed the holographic display and stood. "I'll be at the gala tonight if you have any preliminary questions. I find that informal settings often foster the most productive conversations."
After Luthor departed, Fox turned to Bruce with a raised eyebrow. "Interesting timing, these visits from both Osborn and Luthor in the same day."
"Very," Bruce agreed, his casual demeanor dropping away now that they were alone. "Both pitching partnerships that would give them access to Wayne technology, both mentioning tonight's gala as an alternate venue for discussion."
"You think they're connected?"
"I think nothing happens by coincidence when billions of dollars and proprietary technology are involved." Bruce checked his watch. "I need to prepare for tonight's event. Transfer Luthor's proposal to the secure server. I want to analyze those detection parameters more closely."
"And what about our other project? The suit is ready when you are."
Bruce nodded. "Have it prepared for tonight. With both Luthor and Osborn attending, along with Councilman Grogan, the gala presents multiple high-value targets. Batman may need to make an appearance."
Fox nodded and moved toward the door, then paused. "Sir, there's one more thing. The circus that arrived yesterday—Haly's Circus. One of their performers, John Grayson, has been attempting to contact Commissioner Gordon. Something about evidence related to the Falcone case."
Bruce frowned. "Grayson... wasn't he military before joining the circus?"
"Special forces. Honorably discharged after an injury. My sources say he served on a classified project codenamed 'Rebirth' before leaving the service. Supposedly had connections to weapons shipments that might implicate the Falcones in military contracting fraud."
"And now he's a trapeze artist with Haly's Circus," Bruce mused. "Find out everything you can about him. And alert Gordon—discreetly. If Grayson has evidence that could damage the Falcones, he might be in danger."
"Already done, sir. Though there's another complication." Fox hesitated. "There's been an unusual influx of mercenaries into Gotham in the past seventy-two hours. Floyd Lawton was spotted near the financial district yesterday. Facial recognition picked up what might be Slade Wilson near the circus grounds this morning."
Bruce's expression darkened. Lawton—Deadshot—was one of the most lethal assassins in the world. And if Deathstroke was in Gotham... "Multiple high-level assassins entering Gotham simultaneously suggests a coordinated operation. Someone's preparing to tie up loose ends."
"The Falcones trying to silence witnesses before the trial?"
"Possibly. Or someone using the trial as cover for something else." Bruce moved to his private terminal, fingers dancing across the keyboard as he accessed encrypted Batman files. "Increase security monitoring around the courthouse and key witness locations. And get me everything we have on Grayson's family. If he's being targeted, they could be in danger too."
"He's married with one child—a son, Richard. They perform together as 'The Flying Graysons.' Their act is actually scheduled for tonight, part of the circus's opening performance."
Bruce leaned back, connecting the pieces. A potential witness against the Falcones performing publicly tonight, on the same evening as a charity gala attended by Gotham's elite—including key figures in the Falcone trial. Multiple assassins entering the city within the same timeframe. It wasn't coincidence. It was coordination.
"The timing is deliberate," Bruce said. "Someone's orchestrating this—using the gala as cover for whatever they're planning at the circus."
"Do you want to cancel your appearance at the event?"
Bruce shook his head. "No. Canceling would alert whoever's behind this that we're onto them. We maintain the schedule, but prepare for contingencies." He stood, decision made. "I'll make a brief appearance at the gala, then Batman will investigate the circus situation. Alert Alfred to prepare both the formal wear and the suit."
Fox nodded, understanding the dual preparations required. "And what about Luthor and Osborn's proposals?"
"Delay tactics. Express interest but cite need for board consultation. Keep them thinking Wayne Enterprises is considering their offers while we investigate what they're really after." Bruce's gaze returned to the Gotham skyline, the afternoon sun casting long shadows across the city. "Something bigger is happening, Lucius. These corporate partnerships, the assassins, the Falcone witness—they're all connected somehow."
"Playing multiple angles has always been your specialty, sir."
Bruce allowed himself a grim smile. "Tonight we'll see whose game is stronger."
After Fox departed, Bruce remained at the window, watching his city as daylight began to fade. Tonight Bruce Wayne would charm billionaires and politicians while Batman hunted assassins. Two faces of the same mission, the same purpose—to protect Gotham from those who would exploit and destroy it.
He thought briefly of Clark Kent and the aftermath of the Metallo incident. Superman had nearly died saving Metropolis from a threat created by corporate and military interests pursuing power without accountability. Bruce had warned him afterward that such threats would only multiply—that Luthor, in particular, would not abandon his ambitions simply because one project had failed.
Two years later, those warnings seemed increasingly prophetic. Luthor had transformed LexCorp into a technological powerhouse while maintaining a public image of ethical innovation. Meanwhile, his obsession with Superman and extraterrestrial threats had clearly intensified rather than diminished.
Bruce's intercom buzzed again, pulling him from his thoughts.
"Sir, Commissioner Gordon is on line three. Says it's urgent."
Bruce picked up the secure phone, adopting his carefully calibrated tone – still casual but with just enough seriousness to maintain his image as Batman's financial backer rather than the vigilante himself. "Commissioner. What can I do for you?"
"Wayne." Gordon's voice was tense, professional. "Thought you should know. Alberto Falcone made a large cash withdrawal from accounts we've been monitoring. Seven million dollars, divided into multiple payments. All untraceable."
"Sounds like contract money," Bruce observed, letting just enough concern show in his voice. "You think he's targeting witnesses?"
"That's my assessment. I've already alerted our mutual friend," Gordon said, referring to Batman – unaware he was speaking to him directly. "We're moving key witnesses to secure locations, but there's one we can't reach—John Grayson at Haly's Circus. He's scheduled to perform tonight."
"I'm aware of Grayson's situation. I'll make some calls, see if Wayne Foundation security can assist." Bruce maintained his facade of concerned benefactor. "Have you tried reaching Superman through Kent at the Planet? This might be a situation where additional help would be valuable."
There was a pause on the line. "Kent's unreachable. Taking Lane on some fancy weekend getaway upstate. Rumor at the Planet is he's planning to propose. Bad timing, but we can't exactly begrudge the man a personal life after everything he's done for us."
Bruce allowed himself a small smile. Clark had mentioned his plans last week during their secure call – nervous about the ring he'd spent months designing with Kryptonian elements that would symbolize both his worlds. Despite the unfortunate timing, Bruce couldn't begrudge his friend this important moment.
"Understood. I'll increase security at tonight's gala as well. Several key figures in the Falcone case will be attending."
"Appreciate it, Wayne. And tell your nighttime friend to watch himself if you speak to him. These assassins are top-tier professionals."
"I'll make sure he gets the message, Commissioner. And I'll have the Foundation's resources standing by for whatever you need."
The dynamic was a careful dance they'd perfected over the years – Gordon pretending he didn't suspect Bruce's deeper involvement, Bruce pretending he was merely Batman's wealthy patron. It served them both, providing plausible deniability while allowing efficient communication.
After hanging up, Bruce activated his secure link to the Batcave. "Alfred, change of plans. We have multiple assassins targeting witnesses in the Falcone case. Haly's Circus needs to be our first priority tonight."
"Understood, sir. I've taken the liberty of reviewing the circus schedule. The Flying Graysons are set to perform at nine-thirty, which gives you approximately two hours after the gala begins."
"Not much time," Bruce acknowledged. "Have the Batmobile ready. And Alfred... prepare contingencies for civilian protection. If these assassins are targeting Grayson during a public performance..."
"The casualties could be substantial," Alfred finished grimly. "I'll ensure the medical supplies are fully stocked as well."
"Let's hope we don't need them," Bruce said, though experience had taught him otherwise. Gotham rarely granted mercies, and tonight promised to be no exception.