Opposite Eventually Attract

Conflict and Trust (i)

"It was stolen tech from Professor Ivo's lab, another item that Lexcorp conveniently failed to report missing until now."

Flash paused for a moment, expecting some kind of reaction. Both Batman and Superman made no reply and merely stared at him expectantly. At this point, his news was the least distressing thing the two heroes had heard that night.

"Unfortunately for you guys, Mr. Swampmaster does not know how to reverse the effects of the nanomites. He just found the tech, saw the advantages, and turned to a life a crime."

There was still no response. Flash let out an impatient sound. The lack of reaction he was getting was a bit unnatural and somewhat disappointing. Not exactly sure what to say to his suddenly mute companions, Flash debated on leaving the men to their examination of the ground.

Eventually, Batman spoke up. "In other words, Atom is probably our most likely bet when it comes to getting rid of these things."

"Yeah, but I'm sure the professor will have it taken care of in no time. So until then, you two have plenty of bro time to look forward to."

Batman glared murderous intent at the smaller man.

Wally laughed in reply, "Kidding."

Batman's gaze did not falter, and now, even Superman was giving him a reproachful head nod. Wally laughed again, but this time, it was a mix of nervous panic. The hero never knew when to keep his mouth shut, but he knew exactly when it was time to make his exit. "Well, it's late, so I have to get going. Let me know if you guys need me to check up on anything else."

"Thanks..." Superman replied before giving Flash a weak smile. This was all the assurance Wally needed as he made a hasty retreat.

After watching Flash dash off, Superman ruffled his hands through his hair and let out a defeated sigh.

"Well this is just great. I'm already treading thin ice with Perry considering all the work I've I missed due to league missions that send me to God knows where for days and weeks at a time. I can't remember the last time I used vacation time for its actual intended purpose." Clark made a pained face as though he'd just gotten a visualization of something unpleasant. "But there is just no way I can show up to work tomorrow with the ultimate Wayne accessory dangling from my wrist. I hate to do it, but I will probably have to fake an illness in the family."

Finally settling on his plan, Clark shook himself out of his inner turmoil and looked back up at Bruce. "So what's the plan from here? Should we just stay at the tower until this is resolved?"

Clark turned in the direction Bruce had been standing, only to notice he was already making his way out of the lab.

"Wa-wait where are you going?" Clark stammered as he chased after him.

"Home."

Clark took a moment to interpret Bruce's words before replying, "Your home?"

"Yes, I have patrol soon."

"Patrol?" Clark exclaimed incredulously. "Did you forget that we are basically joined together at the wrist here? Don't you think patrolling Gotham can take a rest for a night?"

Bruce stopped just shy of the exit. He then started to type something on the computer attached to his gauntlet before turning to address the ever patient yet irritated Clark.

"Yes, I'll admit, it would be troublesome having you patrolling with me, not to mention how suspicious it would look, but that's not exactly what I meant. In any case, I don't plan to wait this out at the tower. It's...disruptive."

For some reason,the sound of Bruce's blasé voice was seriously annoying Clark. As usual, Bruce had already concocted a plan that Clark had been no part of.