The Penguin's Heart (Oswald Cobblepot fanfic* orig charac)

Joining the Leauge

Evy/ Red P.O.V

It was only a few more weeks until school ended & Alfred could take us on a long break. They would go to Switzerland for some R&R. Alfred would be privately teaching Bruce since our vacation cut into the school year. 

As for me, I was in a 6-month internship at a prestigious private school. Ras's had someone sent as an instructor to sell Alfred on the idea. It took a lot of begging from me to get him okay with the separation. He finally agreed as he wanted to give me a chance to be "normal" again. He made the call & arrange the travel arrangements to get me to Tibet the night before. The only notice I was able to give to Ozy was a note. 

They came with me to see me off on my first day. We arrived in a village & stayed in a hostel. We all enjoyed a family dinner before getting a good nights sleep. We took a bus to the outskirts to reach the school. It was a medium enclosed square with the roofs of a few buildings poking out from the walls. 

We showed my letter to be let in. A bunch of people were gathered in the courtyard. It was a mixture of ages. People my age were clustered in the back while older people filled the front. I had a backpack & duffle bag.

"Well, Mistress Evy. I believe this is where we say goodbye." Alfred said

"I wish you'd stay with us." Bruce said as he looked around

"You're in good hands. I need some time to myself. We'll be together in no time." I assured them

"Thank you for your confidence." Alfred chuckled before pulling me into a hug

"Stay safe & enjoy your time. Write or call us often so we know you're safe." He reminded me

"I will. Promise." I said as I hugged him back tight

"Good." He sighed before letting go as the bells began to toll

"I'm going to miss my bodyguard." Bruce smiled as he hugged me

"That's why we come in pairs." I laughed

"Come along Master Bruce. It's time to go." He reminded him as the teachers motioned for them to go

Bruce let go & followed Alfred back out to the bus. I watched them until the gate was closed & sealed. I turned my attention to the front & got in line at the back. The bells tolled 2 more times before stopping. From the main building, an older Asian man exited. He was bald & clean-shaven. He had a layer of black & red robes, fastened by a silver belt. He stepped out to the platform that overlooked the entire courtyard.

"Welcome, recruits. Each of you has been asked to join this ancient order because we saw promise. Promise to have the strength & will to help spread order to a world that desperately needs it." He greeted

"These next 3 months will test your resolve. Your limits will be pushed as you learn the basics of our organization. Physically & mentally you will grow." He continued

"For those who survive, they will continue on to the mountain. Only the culmination of our teachings will help you reach the summit." He revealed

"Now, follow the instructors with the red sashes to your rooms. Minors will go left & adults will go right. Take a short rest before getting ready for training in an hour." He finished before heading back inside

Nobody moved until the doors closed behind him. After that, it was a little chaotic as people shuffled about. I followed his instruction as I kept my bags tight & weaved through people. I stayed clear of the pickpockets using the commotion to their advantage. Eventually, I found an instructor who was female with long dark hair. Her features were clearly Eurasian.  As I was the last person in her group, she led us into the left building.