video

[the_caped_crusader]

[ a familiar face to some comes onto the screen as it opens on the communicators. given the nature of this world, it's possible everyone watching would be initially unsure if this was really him, another version of him, or maybe someone else entirely if not for the suit and wayne branding around the room. still, bruce introduces himself again more casually (or disheveled to the knowing), sans coat, with very slight lines under his eyes and a days worth of stubble. ]

I know how these things work, so I won't take up too much of your time. I only want to introduce myself as Bruce Wayne to those who know me and to the uninitiated. This is only to say that I will be stepping back in as CEO of my company, Wayne Enterprises, effective immediately, with my thanks extended to my daughter, Cassandra Wayne, my son, Timothy Drake-Wayne, both of whom some of you may be familiar with, and to the numerous shareholders and staff who have helped to keep it preserved.

In the coming months, I hope to reacquaint myself with all of you, and to learn more about what it is that I've missed over the past ten months that I was gone. For the unaware, know that my family and I have always been committed to giving back to the community and its people, and I'll continue to do that to the best of my ability. As informal an offer as this may seem for a first message, we are always hiring at Wayne Enterprises in various positions for those with the same values.

I won't take up anymore of your time. Thank you again.

Comments

[the_caped_crusader]

And you, Jonathan.

[ there's just the slightest hint of something there, bruce unable to shake the fact that back home he's possibly being kept in a nightmare fugue state by his scarecrow and a number of his other rogues who are trying very hard (and doing a damn fine job of) destroying him. ]

[restingstitchface]

[When his name rolls out, he hears the discomfort and disdain, He has every intention about talking about it, but not today.]

If you're saying that, things must really be bad. [A pause.] Want to talk about it?

[the_caped_crusader]

Maybe I mean it. You were, after all, under my parole at the time. But it looks like you've been doing well on your own for the past ten months.

[restingstitchface]

Yes, well we all must survive alone eventually. Through the good times and the boring.

[He wrinkles his nose, removes his glasses. Begins polishing them with a small cloth as he continues.]

Here's hoping there's plenty of good times again with you around.

[And by good he means fun. In their own inimitable way.]

[the_caped_crusader]

Try not to get your hopes up too much, Jonathan. I wouldn't want to disappoint you.

[ he's really burning the candle at both ends here, unbeknownst to crane. ]

[restingstitchface]

It's not like you didn't months ago.

[He looks sheepish but it's a bitter statement. Even when it's meant reassuringly.]

[the_caped_crusader]

Do you know how tiring it is to hear all of you talk like jilted lovers.

[restingstitchface]

[Crane's expression is unremarkably flat.]

You say offensively. [Both emotionally and tactically, he means.] But it's hardly the harshest thing I've ever said. Regardless, if it's a response that doesn't appeal to you, why don't you attempt not involving yourself in everybody's business?

[You're the one who broken into his place. Just saying.]

[the_caped_crusader]

You must be very excited to do this right now, Jonathan. I'm sure you have an entire list of things you've thought about saying to me if I ever came back. But I'm not going to do this with you.

[restingstitchface]

Oh, that's funny: I thought you had the stamina for our little tête-à-têtes.

Well, will you at least consider a game of chess instead?

[He isn't a sore loser, obviously.]

[the_caped_crusader]

The stamina, not the patience. I'll see you later on.

idk how i missed this

[restingstitchface]

Good. I'll leave the door open.

Oh, and do bring a good bottle of red.