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Post by Ricky Grayson on Jul 24, 2015 5:49:11 GMT
The orphanage was miserable, Ricky had quickly come to learn that. Being around kids that didn't have parents never really bothered him until he was one of those himself and it made him angry. Unlike the majority, Ricky wasn't there because he was given up as a kid, rather because of the accident at the festival.. an accident, as what people were saying. Ricky knew better though, there's no way that his parents would fall victim to that, not when they've performed that same act for close to twenty years. Something wasn't adding up with the situation and Ricky felt that it was going to be his responsibility soon to figure out what was going on, but he'd have to stop being a mute first. Electing a vow of silence, Grayson hadn't spoke a word since the passing of his parents.. and from the looks of things, that wouldn't be changing anytime soon.
// Social Worker]: Richard, we need to talk about this- you holding in all this sensitive information could create havoc!
Currently, Ricky Grayson was seated in a pleather chair, one that was beat up from years of usage. Dressed in a grey long-sleeve shirt and a pair of black sweats, Grayson had a pretty little shiner on his left eye with a huge bruise reaching across his cheek-bone.
// Social Worker]: Richard! This muteness is not acceptable!
By arching both brows and essentially rolling his eyes, the social worker got her answer from him.
// Social Worker]: If you're not going to cooperate, there's no reason for you to be here. So one more time Richard.. Why did you attack that boy?
Grayson shook his head, the social worker had enough of Ricky's attitude and nodded at the door allowing a guard to step in and escort Ricky from the office. Moving through the wooden hall-way, the building was beat up and old, nothing like Wayne Manor that was originally supposed to be the home for these children. The building had seen it's share of better days, the paint was chipped- doors were broken and the floor panels creaked from how broken they were. Being escorted back to his dwelling- which was a room with six military style bunks in, Grayson hit his bunk and sat down, before moving his body so he was laying across his bed with his head at the tip and feet at the edge.
// Kid]: Yo Ricky, we goin' squad up, wanna play some ball?
Following motion like he did earlier with the social worker, the kid- who's name was Reggie took notice of Grayson's lack of interest and darted off, leaving the boy to be alone with his thoughts. It had been said that C.C. Haly and the rest of the circus had put forth a motion to formally adopt the boy to keep him with those he considered family but due to a lack of a physical address, the motion was denied and Ricky was left as a ward to the state. He was supposed to graduate from his home-school that was taught by him mother, there wasn't going to be a huge ceremony.. instead just a dinner at a local drive-in where they could be a family.
"No matter what Ricky- we're a family and we'll always be together."
His father's voice played over in his head, it was the one phrase that he held onto that allowed him to remain mute. Even though it was a week later from the incident, he still couldn't believe that he was alone in this world.. the worst part of it all was the fact that the orphanage and social worker didn't bother to allow Ricky any information regarding his parent's funeral. Usually, things would be a week away but in this case.. it wasn't happening.
"GRAYSON! YOU'VE GOT A VISITOR! LOBBY, NOW!"
Ricky snapped his attention to a burly guard that stood near the door way, out of all of those that worked- he was the best. Despite sounding mean, the man was really nice, it was like he had known Ricky in the past. Standing up, Grayson moved to the doorway and nodded his head at the guard all as the guard threw his right arm around the boy's neck and shoulder.
// Guard Barnes]: I know it sucks Ricky but things will get better. Even if you aren't adopted by one of the well-to-do prudes out there, you're turning 18 sooner than later and you're free to go. I like to think that I make the stay here a bit easier.. right!?
With a nod, Ricky cracked a smile which Guard Barnes liked to see. Letting the boy head continue toward the lobby, Ricky didn't know who'd visit him in this place- he figured it must of been one of the circus members but surprises were always nice. He always had the thought that a long-lost Grayson family member would pop up and leave a hefty sum of cash in he and his family's direction.. and with the way things were now, that'd be a great happening. Sticking his hands in his pockets, he kept his head down as he moved through the hallway- the sound of ping-pong balls being struck off paddles from the room in the left and the sound of button mashing from an older game console to the right- Ricky sighed and moved out of the hallway and stepped into the lobby..
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Post by Ted Grant - Wildcat on Jul 24, 2015 6:59:37 GMT
Richard Grayson just stepped into the lobby. Surprisingly his eyes caught the attention of Theodore Grant;Wildcat. He emerged out of the office as one of the social worker makes an announcement.
"Excuse me I am here to inform you that Ted is here to invite you all on his son's seventh birthday", the moment this announcement was being made. Ted stood next to the social worker, he had his arms crossed but his face gave a different look when he saw Ricky staring back at him from the hallway."He also got tickets for each and every one of you to come see him fight Adam or was it Albert King ". the social worker embarrassingly chuckles to himself, and whispers to himself," I do not follow boxing at all". Ted didn't took his eyes for one bit from Ricky Richardson. Everyone that was present there clapped over the announcement once it was delivered, Ted had to excuse himself and walked up to the young boy who is about to turn eighteen.
"Excuse me. You're Master Richard Grayson", he kneels down before him and attempted to shake hands with him. He could see in his eyes that he misses family.Any kid who witness such a devastation would feel in his age. Though no kid should go through what he has gone through."I am sorry about your parents. I came to Haly Circus few times, even as a Kid. Your dad was really talented. I have seen you pulled through some amazing stunts. Look I am not here to patronize you but I know it's hard on what you're going through ? If you ever need to talk to, during these traumatic time. I am willing to help out. If you like you can live with me and my son"
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Post by Ricky Grayson on Jul 24, 2015 9:59:43 GMT
The man standing in front of Ricky was a new face, not one of the several dozen that had popped up after he lost his parents in an attempt to improve their public image. Ricky had heard the promises and pledges to given a 'good life' through donations, he wasn't interested in any of that. All he wanted was peace and quiet and the chance to dwell in his own thoughts without having to deal with people who sympathized for his situation. The guy before him though, he was different. There was an edge and a certain toughness that he projected that Ricky could appreciate and relate to, it was like he was one of the members of Haly's Circus that he bonded with through the years. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw the same social worker who tried to break his silence earlier- Grayson sucked his upper and lower lip in and crossed his arms over his chest.. all as he nodded rhythmically to something playing in his head.
// Social Worker]: If it's something you're interested in Ricky, I can get draw some paperwork up for visitation...?
The social worker had approached Grayson and the man, all as Ricky scoffed.
// Social Worker]: Excuse me?
Still attempting to break Grayson's speaking-strike, it was a failure as Ricky simply scoffed again.
// Social Worker]: Let me apologize for Richard's antics, Mister Grant. He's been through a lot recently and he's decided to reserve the right to remain silent.
Ricky looked in Mister Grant's direction and nodded, all as Grant let off a smile of his own.
// Social Worker]: We do appreciate the tickets that you've donated, if we can find enough chaperones to attend the event we will make full use of them. If not, they will be sent straight back to you in case you decide you'd want to put them elsewhere. Also, if Richard is interested I can draft up the release for him to attend your son's 7th Birthday party...?
Again, the social worker tried to pull a slick one, but Grayson simply sighed and extended his hand out to Grant- all in a silent way to say 'thanks, but no thanks.'
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Post by Ted Grant - Wildcat on Jul 24, 2015 12:54:48 GMT
Mister Grant smiled at the social worker. He could sense that Richard Grayson doesn't really want to live with Ted Grant at all. The expression and gesture that he made in front of him and despite the social worker apologizing for master Ricky's behaviour. Ted knows that no apology was required. Ted was not only here to promote a boxing match or promote his son's birthday. He's here for various reason. He is here for something only the newly vigilantes running around could able to fathom. He is in Gotham city to stalk them, find them and create a team out of them. A team that would look after not just Gotham but other major cities across from it.
Ted looked at the social worker with a witful smile.Ricky wasn't really going to be part of his team, but it was to give Ricky a family where he can feel most welcomed, appreciated, Ted knows that he can't replace his true family but he tried to give shelter for the goodness of his heart and also his nature since his vigilante days. Recently He is hiding something about the Haly Circus incident. He was there before visiting the Wayne Manor, he feels like that the accident was staged, Ted believes that his parents were murdered, how ? Well just like Ted learned that he knew Bruce and Bat were the same. It wasn't a hunch, it was something that he could deduce. Grant saw the boy reaching his hand out to him. He shakes his hand by extending his own. He could tell by that firm handshake with the boy that he is hurting from inside, like filled with rage or something
" Well first of all you don't need to apologize me for the boy. I understand what he's going through ? but as for the match and birthday events are concerned. I will have transport available for everyone invited. I will try my best on that "
He turned his attention back at Ricky. He didn't fester a smile, this time he kneel down and have few more words with him." Mister Grayson or my friend used to call you The flying grayson, now I can't bring your parents back, but when I was your age I used to get into fight which get me into a lot of trouble. But there is one thing I need to tell you. Earlier today I was at the Wayne Manor because I thought thats where they took you ? but then I met the most famous butler and he told me about this place. My intentions are noble. I think you are in danger, I do not know why and that's why I came down here to take you home. It was one of many reason why I came to talk to you. If you insist on staying than its up to you", Ted didn't wanted to tell him about what he find he learned at the circus. He hate to keep that secret from him about his parents but at this time. He thought best he shouldn't say a word about it. Ted main intention is to protect the boy because to him Richard Grayson is innocent and years ago he promised to himself that he would do anything to protect the innocent. Now after sharing few words with Richard, Ted hands him a card that has his contact details on it.
"If you ever needed to talk to me.My prayers are with you.", he's telling the boy isn't safe and yet he ended up with a statement which was completely out of the line. He's hoping to take him and protect him but also in due time to share the truth about what he learned at the circus.
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Post by Barbara Gordon on Jul 24, 2015 19:18:39 GMT
Barbara braked sharply on her bike outside the orphanage. She had almost cycled straight past without even spotting it. The directions she had hadn't mentioned how Dickensian the building was. She half expected Oliver Twist to stroll out of it with his merry band of miscreants. Barbara chained up her bike outside the building and stuffed her helmet into her tatty purple backpack that was covered in pins and badges that she'd collected over the years. She just about managed to shut the zip of the backpack and made her way into the building. Barbara pushed open the large double doors and entered into the lobby. A reception desk was dead ahead with a woman typing on an ancient computer. A flight of stairs was on the right and a hallway to the left. There also seemed to be an office behind the reception desk that several people were almost constantly walking in and out of. Barbara kept looking around, unsure of where she should go and who she should speak to. The lie she had told her father would only grant her another hour or two before she'd have to head home. There was only so long a teenager could spend at the library before their father would become suspicious. Even if that teenager worked at the library every other Saturday. Barbara walked over to the reception desk and was about to ask for directions when she saw two people talking. One was a man clearly intent on what he was saying. The other was Ricky Grayson. She looked so different. She seemed less of a person than he had been one week previously. At the circus Ricky had been so animate yet here he was barely reacting to the man talking more at him than to him. They shook hands and a nearby figure seemed more and more irratated at their conversation. The clipboard they were clinging to, the ID badge hanging on a lanyard around their neck and the way they seemed at home told Barbara that this was a social worker. Barbara made her way towards them in an attempt to eavesdrop their conversation. The man knelt down beside Ricky and continued to speak. "Mister Grayson or my friend used to call you The flying grayson, now I can't bring your parents back, but when I was your age I used to get into fight which get me into a lot of trouble. But there is one thing I need to tell you. Earlier today I was at the Wayne Manor because I thought that's where they took you, but then I met the most famous butler and he told me about this place." This man had clearly had the same thought process as Barbara'd had several days ago. Like she had done the day after Mr and Mrs Grayson's deaths, he had gone to Wayne Manor and spoken to Alfred. "My intentions are noble. I think you are in danger, I do not know why and that's why I came down here to take you home. It was one of many reason why I came to talk to you. If you insist on staying than its up to you." 'Came to take you home'? Did he mean back to the circus or somewhere with him. Alarm bells were ringing inside Barbara's head. She slipped out her phone and took several photos of the man. If the police needed to find him, she wanted as much evidence as she could muster. The man handed Rickey a card and stood up. "If you ever needed to talk to me. My prayers are with you." Ricky had been silent throughout the entire one sided conversation and he remained so now except as well as staring vacantly forwards, he was twiddling the card between his fingers. The social worker took the man to one side, not far from Ricky. Barbara didn't know if she'd get another chance. Plucking a chair from beside the reception she plunked it next to Ricky and sat beside him. "I don't think I got a chance to properly say before: my name is Barbara Gordon and I am very glad to see you Ricky Grayson." |
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Post by Ricky Grayson on Jul 25, 2015 1:12:27 GMT
For the first time since landing one of the jumps at the performance... Ricky felt human. The girl he had met and had a brief conversation with had popped up and just like the last time she projected a certain humane nature. With the social worker and Grant off to the side, speaking in regards to the fight and how things would be set up, Ricky leaned towards Barbara and whispered.
// Ricky]: I can't let them see me talking but it's nice to see you.
Ricky had appreciated Grant's offer to take him home and give him shelter, but it wasn't something Grayson was interested in. At the moment all Ricky wanted to do was get information regarding his parent's funeral and once they were buried, he would look to what he would do next. Haly's Circus was planning on fighting tooth and nail to get Ricky under their guardianship until he was of age but Mister Haly's criminal record would make that a difficult task. Scratching at the side of his black-eye, he then ran his hand over the top of his shaved head as he leaned in again.
// Ricky]: I've gotta get the hell out of here. It's depressing and I feel like I'm in prison.. they feed us bread, crackers and water.
Noticing Barbara's eyes get wide from Ricky's revelation of how poor the food conditions were, he nodded. The social worker turned his attention to Ricky and Barbara as he caught the sight of Barbara's bright red head from his position and kept an eye on the two as he continued his conversation with Grant. Turning his attention away from the teenagers, Ricky spotted that with his peripheral vision and once again leaned in towards Barbara.
// Ricky]: I can manage to get away for an hour or two and I want to eat normal food. Meet me outside the gates of the building - I can use normal company for once.
With a smile, the first in a while crossed over his face, Ricky stood up and sighed to continue the act. Heading forward, he made his way through the hall-way and back towards the room he was sitting in earlier. Before he could disappear in the distance, he turned back and glanced over his shoulder and shot Barbara a thumbs up before turning the corner.
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Post by Barbara Gordon on Jul 27, 2015 21:35:16 GMT
There was something about Ricky Grayson that Barbara couldn't quite put her finger on. When she saw him, she felt as though he was a similar soul to herself. She barely knew him at all yet felt she could entirely trust him and wanted to protect him. When Ricky described the conditions at the Orphanage, Barbara felt her heart drop. It was worse than she imagined. If that Butler could see this place...but that was no longer an option. "I can manage to get away for an hour or two and I want to eat normal food. Meet me outside the gates of the building - I can use normal company for once."Barbara nodded as Ricky stood smiling. As he walked away, his face returned to the depressed and neutral state of before. Just before he vanished around a corner, Ricky looked back and flashed a thumbs up. Barbara returned the gesture and then he was gone. Barbara stood and made her way towards the doors she had entered from, wondering how Ricky was going to get out. As Barbara extended her arm to push open the doors, a thin, bony hand clutched her shoulder and practically forced her to spin around. It was the social worker."And who may I ask are you?"Barbara remained calm. She was too angry at this place to feel nervous. "My name? My name....is...Miss Yvonne Craig. I represent the Gotham Gazette and I've come to interview Ricky Grayson."The social worker's questioning eyes turned into a frown. "He refused to talk to me. It's like he's a mute. If you can just get him to give me an interview?""Get out of here! You have no business here. Get out before I call the cops."Barbara couldn't get out fast enough for the social worker's liking and the doors slammed shut behind her. Barbara smiled and made her way passed the gates of the building. No sign of Ricky. |
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Post by Ricky Grayson on Jul 28, 2015 0:11:57 GMT
The new arrivals were stationed on the first of three floors of the orphanage so it made Ricky's escape easier than anticipated. Despite his respect for the one guard, he absolutely hated the place and refused to budge in his mute-strike.. knowing that it'd probably gain him more foes than allies but it was something he felt he needed to do. It was like the place was stuck in 1958 with it's poor conditions, starvation-promoting diet and of course.. the living conditions. The city moved the kids and teenagers out of Wayne Manor which was equipped to home them all comfortably for this.. political green was on full display there. Nonetheless, lifting the window, he popped his head out and saw no one in the area but before he could make his grand escape a voice called out to him.
"GRAYSON!"
As much as he admired Officer Barnes for being fair, he had a knack for popping up at the worst times imaginable. Ricky pulled himself back into the room and turned towards the voice, all as he leaned up against it and let that look of depression etch across his face again.
// Officer Barnes]: Miss Lumberville wanted me to let you know she turned away a reporter from the Gazette, a Yevette.. Yvonne Craig or whatever. She respects your right to remain silent and wanted to show that she cares.. just a heads up.
Barns nodded, as Ricky gave him a silent 'thanks' with a nod of his own head as the officer turned and disappeared down the corridor. Turning his attention back to outside, he made his way through the window and landed on his feet behind a bunch of bushes. Keeping himself crouched for a few seconds to make sure he kept himself safe, he darted out into the open.. instantly taking in the fresh air and loving every bit of it. There was a design flaw with the area, it was as if they were promoting unauthorized leave of absences with the space between the new arrivals window, the ease of jumping through the window and the six foot chain-link fence that separated them from the world. In a full sprint, Grayson hit the fence- pulled himself up and scaled it.. all as he hit the ground on the other-end with a thud. The state forbid Ricky to return to Haly's Circus, even in a limited capacity as they felt it was 'against the best wishes of the court' to allow him to do something he's been engaging in his whole life. Continuing his mid-sprint though, he heard the voices echo from the other people as they played basketball on the courts up to the right.. nearing another wall- this time a concrete one that was about eight feet tall, Grayson once again scaled it, showing that agility and jumped down, hitting the pavement with a nice bounce. Waiting with her bike was Barbara Gordon, Ricky didn't expect to see her again after the chance encounter at the performance but he was grateful to be in the company of someone normal. With a smile crossed over his face, he nodded in her direction and dusted off his knees.
// Ricky]: FREE AT LAST!
Happier than he'd been in a while, he stretched his arms above his head and took in another deep inhale of the fresh air.. it was polluted and gray.. but this would be his home for the foreseeable future. Sure, he'd much rather be with the people he considered a family with Mister Haly and the bunch but he wasn't going to jeopardize Haly's Circus with running away and back to them.. they worked too hard to keep the circus through the years and it'd be selfish of him to do that. Instead, he'd reluctantly keep himself at the graces of the state and hope that he'd find a genie's lamp sooner rather than later and wish it all away.
// Ricky]: I could use a burger.. fries and a big Coke- no ice, I'll take it warm if I have to. Compared to what I've been stuck eating here.. now I know why people keep escaping from Blackgate and Arkham.. it's awful! Processed food.. crackers- stale bread and water you can pluck stuff out of-
Ricky faked a gag as he put his hands around his throat to illustrate the nastiness of the situation, he shook his head before chuckling.
// Ricky]: .. I'd make sure to run away from there too! So what'd you say that you be my escort on my first lunch-date as a ward of the city?!
For the first time.. he smiled, a genuine smile. Something about Barbara's presence was comforting, she.. got him, Ricky felt. They were two of the same, maybe not in terms of parental units as she had structure with Commissioner Gordon.. but the nasty divorce that filled the papers and her family moving away.. it was a loss that Ricky had become extremely close with since the accident with his parents. Looking in Barbara's direction- he shrugged his shoulders-
// Ricky]: Unless of course you're busy.. Yvonne Craig..
Letting a cheesy smile cross over his face- Ricky shrugged again.
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Post by Barbara Gordon on Jul 28, 2015 5:51:38 GMT
Barbara eyed her watch. It had been a few minutes since she'd left the Orphanage. She could feel anxiety creeping through her. It saddened her that even if Ricky somehow escaped the Orphanage for a few hours, he'd only have a couple hours of freedom before returning. "FREE AT LAST!" Barbara felt a smile fill her face as she turned around. Ricky Grayson was striding across the pavement towards her with his arms reaching up above him. This was the Ricky Grayson she had met before. Confident and exuding calm and happiness. It was contagious. She felt happier just being around him. "I could use a burger.. fries and a big Coke- no ice, I'll take it warm if I have to. Compared to what I've been stuck eating here.. now I know why people keep escaping from Blackgate and Arkham.. it's awful! Processed food.. crackers- stale bread and water you can pluck stuff out of-" Barbara laughed heartily as he clutched his hands around his throat and pretended to gag. Ricky joined her in laughing. As Barbara's laugh faded, she realised that this may be the first actual friend she'd made since returning to Gotham. "... I'd make sure to run away from there too! So what'd you say that you be my escort on my first lunch-date as a ward of the city?!" As Ricky smiled, Barbara tried to act cool and smile back without blushing furiously at the mention of the word 'date'. "Unless of course you're busy.. Yvonne Craig.." Barbara instantly felt at ease again and laughed. "Well Mr Grayson, I can tell you that I, Miss Craig journalist supreme, have an incredibly busy schedule but...I think I may have a few hours spare." Barbara looked around. Still no sign of anyone from the Orphanage but it probably wasn't a good idea to hang around. "So you want some filthy burger food? I know just the place. Nelson's Diner is about 20 minutes...that way."
Barbara dramatically thrust her pointing hand down the street. Leaving her bike where it was to collect later, Barbara started to walk down the street in the direction of her favourite diner. ---------------------------------------------The walk only took 13 minutes and they were soon sat in a booth at Nelson's diner. Nelson eyed them both suspiciously as they entered. Barbara had a horrible feeling that Nelson would be relaying this trip to her father. Barbara handed Ricky a laminated menu and sat opposite him. She turned to her right and looked out the window. The skies of Gotham were turning grey. It looked like it was going to rain. Barbara turned back to Ricky. "If you're feeling like eating truly filthy food, may I recommend either the all day breakfast burger or the Gotham Tower burger."Nelson approached with his small notepad and pencil. "What can I do you for Miss Gordon?"
"Hi Nelson. Could I please have...a strawberry milkshake, a chicken burger and just a couple of fries...not too many."
"Can do. And you young Sir? What are you hankering for?" |
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Post by Ricky Grayson on Jul 29, 2015 5:00:11 GMT
// Ricky]: Double Bacon Cheeseburger, hold the onions though.
Making the same gagging gesture he did earlier, he continued.
// Ricky]: An.. Order.. ooooofffff..
He let his eyes scan the menu before settling upon something- using his the tip of his finger to point it out.
// Ricky]: Garlic fries and a large- goliath.. huge Coke.. as cold as possible.
// Nelson]: So- for Miss Gordon; a strawberry miik-shake, a chicken burger annnnnnnnnnnd.. fries, not too much, but just enough.. and for you- a Double Bacon Cheeseburger with no onions, garlic fries and the biggest size Coke we've got?
Ricky let off a nod and smile as he handed the menu back to Nelson after he finished scribbling the order down in his note-pad just in case and walked off, leaving the two teenagers to sit at the booth and enjoy the depressing gray sky that had rolled in all of a sudden.
// Ricky]: So tell me about yourself. We only got to talk a little bit before the show the last time.. What do you like to do? What's your favorite food? I'm interested in knowing what makes you tick- It's not often I get to sit down and talk to a normal person as all I know is the circus life.. a bearded lady, a few clowns that like to play Go-Fish and a guy who fits himself into a mermaid tale to make a quick buck.. Pretty ordinary life if I may say..
Putting on a cheesy smile, Ricky nodded at his sarcasm before letting his eyes fall upon his fingers. Twiddling his thumbs, Ricky reached out and grabbed hold of the salt-shaker and looked up and around the diner- Nelson wasn't anywhere in sight. He felt odd being around Barbara, not because she was a girl but because it was as if he had forgotten how company of his own age felt. Having someone that was going through similar things in life [regarding age] was always good, they could relate to one another. Ricky and Barbara was at total different spectrums of life at the moment- he was coming off losing his parents and was left an orphan, all as Barbara had come back to the city to reunite with her father.. leaving her mother and brother. Yet.. Ricky couldn't seem to shake the feeling that Barbara understood him- and the effort she put in to try and get to know him warranted a return flow of effort from his direction.
// Ricky]: I don't mean to pry.. But how is it being the daughter of the Commissioner of the Police Department? I mean.. Do you like- get extra security detail because your dad and the people he put away? Do you have to deal with people trying to take out their anger on you 'cause your dad is onto them and their scheming ways? I think you're in a pretty interesting spot..
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Post by Barbara Gordon on Jul 29, 2015 6:39:30 GMT
"Wow, that's a lot of questions. What do I like to do? Oh god, I sound so boring but...I don't know if I have any hobbies really. I've only been living in Gotham for just over a year. With my Dad being who he is...it's tough to make friends and go out and do stuff. I like books. I work every other Saturday at the library. I'm not a writer, not really but I love reading. I'm pretty good with computers. I did a course for a while in Cleveland. I'm a really good swimmer. I do gymnastics. I like black and white films. Yea, I guess those are my favourite things. As far as food goes, this is my fave food place in the City but nothing beats breakfast for dinner. My Dad lived in England for a couple of years a long time ago and he brought back their English cooked breakfast. I don't know how he does it but I've never tasted it better anywhere else." Barbara smiled and looked to the side. There weren't many other customers. Seven at the most. Nelson was handing a couple their drinks. Turning back to Ricky, she saw he was still smiling. He was making an effort. Barbara didn't ever feel comfortable having to talk about herself but she knew he meant well. "My Dad being Commissioner...it can be tricky but I knew it would be when I moved here. I lived in Gotham until I was five then Cleveland until a year ago. Well actually, can't be far off a year and a half now. I don't get extra security detail no...well...sometimes...like at the circus. He sent me home with a cop who kept me in my room. Luckily no, I haven't had to 'deal' with any angry people yet. My Dad wouldn't ever let them get close." Nelson arrived at their booth and leant forwards with his tray. He placed the strawberry milkshake in front of Barbara and then heaved Ricky's drink onto the table. It was a pitcher of coke. Barbara knew Nelson was trying to be funny. "This was the smallest size glass we had I'm afraid. When we get the delivery of the large glasses later, I'll let you kids know." Throwing a wink at Barbara, Nelson walked away. "So my turn. What are your plans now? Obviously you have to get out of that Orphanage. Why don't you just hide out someplace? You don't have to go back there. It's not a prison. When is your circus leaving? Can't you join them? When do you turn 18? Sorry...I'm bombarding you with questions." Barbara could feel herself starting to blush so quickly started drinking the cold milkshake through the straw. |
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Post by Ricky Grayson on Jul 30, 2015 2:46:32 GMT
// Ricky]: You know.. All I want to know is when my parents funeral is. We're not allowed to go onto the internet at the prison I'm stuck at and they don't want me looking through the paper out of fear I might 'lose myself emotionally...' whatever that means. Once I'm able to do that, get that out of the way the healing can begin. This is still all a shock to me, it's like I'm stuck in this horrible dream and there's no way to wake up..
Knowing he was beginning to sound depressing, he dropped the subject and thought about the other ways he could detail the future of his life without putting them both into an uncomfortable place.
// Ricky]: I guess.. I don't know what I want to do. I've been conditioned since I was young to want to take over for my parents when I got of age and they weren't able to continue the show no more. Probably wanted me to have a new generation down the road.. but I don't know, maybe that's not what's in the cards anymore. I do love the people there- don't get me wrong, but at the same time I never had the chance to see the world for what it was. Being at the orphanage, as much as the food sucks and I've gotta deal with pencil-pushers like the social workers, it's.. not bad, but not good neither. At least I'm able to be around people my age and it means a lot as far as a distraction from life, you know?
Ricky grabbed hold of the straw sitting on a napkin- next to the fork and spoon and plucked it into the pitcher of Coke- all as he begun to take huge gulps as if he had never tasted that flavor of soda in his life. After four huge gulps, he let off a sigh of relief and closed his eyes for a second..
// Ricky]: It's like heaven..
Both shared a laugh at Ricky's expense, all as he continued speaking.
// Ricky]: The plan though.. I know Mister Haly put in for emergency placement and due to how long they've known me, we thought it'd work but the city said no and rejected the motion. They said that a circus is no place for a 'child,' like I'm 8 or something. Haly made a scene and pretty much was told that if I go missing and pop up back at the circus, they're going to take them all down for kidnapping, even if it's my idea go to back.. so I'm stuck between a rock and a hard place. I do want to go back and see the people I've grown up with- but at the same time, I can't be selfish enough to risk everything they've worked for.
The one glaring fact that was made apparent was Ricky's inability to have people lose their way. He never wanted anyone to make sacrifices on his behalf, if he was to succeed or move forward, it was because he put in the work or did what was necessary. There's no way he would be able to live with himself if he was the reason why C.C. Haly lost his entire life's work.. it'd kill Ricky.
// Ricky]: As far as my birthday goes.. March 20th.. I've still got a while before I fully am able to make 'legal choices' with my life.
Rolling his eyes at the statement, he took another huge gulp from the pitcher of Coke.. all as he noticed to the table next to him was a newspaper from today. Before he stood up, he popped his head out of the booth and looked around- the other patrons seemed busy with their own food and business which allowed him to reach out, grab hold of the newspaper and sat back down at the booth. He felt Barbara's inquisitive eyes fall on him, all as he sighed.
// Ricky]: First time I've got my hands on one of these since before the accident.. let's see what it says about my parents..
The Gazette he quickly skimmed through had no information regarding funeral plans- rather, just the usual sensationalist headlines that'd throw people through a loop. Placing the newspaper back at the table, he sat back down and once again took a few seconds to inhale the Coke- once finished, he looked up..
// Ricky]: Babs- and yeah, that's your nickname from now on.. I fits your wayyyyyyyyyyyyy better than Barbara.. But Babs, I don't like to put people into precarious positions but I may need to ask you a huge favor- only if you're OK with it, of course. I'd never want to take advantage of someone, especially if it'd land them in trouble.. that's not how I do things but this.. it's pretty big. It'll help me a lot.. it'll give me peace of mind..
He put it off as long as he could, he wanted to try and force it back but he wasn't able to. He had to sit through the frustration of not knowing anything due to stupid procedures put in place to 'protect him' when in reality, it made him an angrier person. He felt Barbara's eyes still fixed on him- she hadn't replied with a yes or no yet- but as she was busy on her milkshake, he asked..
// Ricky]: I don't know if it's going to be public knowledge or what, but.. if not.. is there anyway you could get the date of my parents funeral? There's no way I'm going to miss that and I have a feeling that the orphanage is going to 'forget' to tell me all as they try to 'protect' me from myself. If you can't do that, I understand- I wouldn't want you to pry.. but if you could be my link to the outside world.. I'd really appreciate it.
And there it was- for the first time in his seventeen years of life, Ricky Grayson had asked someone for something.. and it didn't make him feel good. He didn't know how Commissioner Gordon would react if he found out Ricky was using his daughter as a link to the world- but at this point, Ricky had no other options. He did however give Barbara an opportunity to say no and decline the offer, it wasn't as if he'd have his mind changed on what he thought about her. Ricky and Barbara had a connection- that was apparent- he didn't want to have her thinking that he was just using her for information because that was far from the truth. Ricky needed peace of mind, and at the moment only Barbara could provide that as there wasn't anyone else he trusted.
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Post by Barbara Gordon on Jul 30, 2015 18:06:26 GMT
Barbara listened to Ricky as he discussed his parents, the circus and the orphanage. Barbara made a mental note to never complain about her life again. Sure, her parents were probably never going to be in the same room ever again unless it was a court room, sure she probably wouldn't see her mother, brother, Aunt and many cousins for a long time and of course she had the underlying trauma of being kidnapped by a psychopath and held at gunpoint at the age of five. That was nothing compared to Ricky. His parents were gone. The journey to Cleveland was a 7 1/2 hour drive from Gotham if she really needed to be with her mother. The distance between Ricky and his Mum was considerably greater. Ricky caught her attention again as he took massive gulps of his drink. It was like an addict finally getting his fix. "It's like heaven..." Barbara joined in Ricky's ensuing laughter. He really was someone that she wanted to be friends with. He continued talking selflessly about how he would put the needs of the circus before his own. "As far as my birthday goes.. March 20th.. I've still got a while before I fully am able to make 'legal choices' with my life." Barbara thought of her own birthday. September 23rd. She wondered what she would be doing for her birthday. Last year she had only been living with her Dad for just under two months and they were still feeling each other out. They hadn't lived in the same house for 10 years. The plan had been for her mother and brother to travel to Metropolis and then Barbara would go with Dad. However, her brother James had gotten the chicken pox and Barbara hadn't had it before. They had to stay in Cleveland. So, her Dad had taken her out on a fishing boat for her 15th birthday. Barbara didn't catch a single fish and threw up everywhere. It had been great. This year, she would probably have to go and see her mother. Ricky reached out and grabbed a newspaper. Barbara raised an eyebrow and watched him go. "First time I've got my hands on one of these since before the accident.. let's see what it says about my parents..." Barbara had read the Gazette already and felt a knot in her stomach as Ricky read. She tried to concentrate on her milkshake and looked down at the table. She saw him move using her peripheral vision and when he sat back down, she looked up. "Babs- and yeah, that's your nickname from now on.. I fits your wayyyyyyyyyyyyy better than Barbara..." Barbara groaned and rolled her eyes whilst smiling. That nickname had followed her around since kindergarten. It seemed as though it wasn't leaving any time soon. "But Babs, I don't like to put people into precarious positions but I may need to ask you a huge favour- only if you're OK with it, of course. I'd never want to take advantage of someone, especially if it'd land them in trouble.. that's not how I do things but this.. it's pretty big. It'll help me a lot.. it'll give me peace of mind..." Barbara knew she was going to say yes. She was shocked and knew her face showed it even though she tried to hide it. "I don't know if it's going to be public knowledge or what, but.. if not.. is there anyway you could get the date of my parents funeral? There's no way I'm going to miss that and I have a feeling that the orphanage is going to 'forget' to tell me all as they try to 'protect' me from myself. If you can't do that, I understand- I wouldn't want you to pry.. but if you could be my link to the outside world.. I'd really appreciate it." It was clear that Ricky was hurting. He'd lost the people closest to him and hadn't been allowed to grieve properly. He had to go to that funeral. Without a moment's hesitation Barbara knew what she had to do. She didn't bother to try and be delicate. She knew Ricky didn't need that and didn't have time. "Ricky...of course I'll help. You don't know this about me but I can be a pretty good sleuth when I need to be. If I know where to look thenI don't know how public it will be. If someone like Vicki Vale gets her hands on it, then very. To find out the date, we need to know how long the GCPD are going to hold on to the bodies. They will have been taken to the forensic labs in the GCPD. If they suspect foul play, they could be kept there for way over a week. The scientists there can be pretty lazy. However, this isn't a gun crime or a stabbing so they will have come to a conclusion pretty quickly."Barbara drew out her weapon of choice. Her phone. Within seconds she was inside the email account of Stacey, her father's secretary."They came to a decision two days ago...they believe it wasn't murder." Barbara glanced up at Ricky in an attempt to gauge how he had taken the news. She knew he could talk if he wanted so continued. "I looks like the funeral's being rushed through. As for the location...there are invoices here for them to be transported to a funeral parlour in downtown Gotham. They're set to be taken there...tonight. That must mean the funeral is soon and I mean real soon. There's forms here for last minute work rotations for seven officers to be in attendance of the funeral...tomorrow afternoon. Someone has paid for the bodies to be taken to...wow...to be taken to Gotham Cemetary tomorrow morning. Ricky...not everyone gets buried in Gotham Cemetary. Someone must have paid for that and it wasn't the GCPD. Their invoices only go as far as taking them to the funeral parlour." Nelson approached the table and Barbara went quiet. He placed their meals in front of them and smiled."I hope you enjoy. If you want any sources, come and grab them by the front. You know the drill Ms Gordon." Barbara waited until Nelson had walked away before continuing. Barbara placed the phone face up on the table so Ricky could see. After pressing a few buttons, a bird's eye view of Gotham Cemetery appeared on the screen. "We need to think of a way to get in. There are three entrances. One is the main entrance. That's our worst bet as it's where all the people attending will go through and if anywhere will have a police check, that'll be it. There's also a side entrance but I can see that my Dad asked Stacey to email the church to make sure that's locked. It's a no go. Finally, there's a gate behind the church. According to the Church's recent newsletter, they're raising money to repair some of the statues in the grounds as well as the gate. It doesn't lock. The police will know that though and will be keeping an eye open. I suggest we use the gate as an entrance but arrive whilst the bodies are being transported to the church so roughly three hours before the funeral. Their attention will be off the church and on the parlour. Their planned route will mean they will take two 1/2 hours to reach the church, 30 mins set up, funeral then leave. Looks like they want it to be quick. I don't know if anyone's been invited so I'm sending an email to the owner of the circus from Stacey's email account, alerting him to times and location. I'm also telling him that the GCPD are bringing you. That'll stop him from trying to cause a scene at the orphanage when we want this to be discreet." Barbara took a breath. She had always been good with tech. "So...what do you think...?" |
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Post by Ricky Grayson on Jul 31, 2015 2:30:01 GMT
So they WERE planning on cheating Ricky out of a last goodbye to his parents.. that didn't make him feel too good. Instead of dwelling on it, he begun to think over a strategy- there wasn't a chance in hell that this would be an event he missed. The city's government was beginning to sour Ricky on everything Gotham, this tempted him to say his goodbyes to his parents and set off onto his own life somewhere else.. anywhere. But then when he spotted Babs, he couldn't do that- she was a friend- he wouldn't leave her in this cruel city.. if anything, they had each other to deal with the nonsense that seemed to rise from the depths of hell.
// Ricky]: I- uh.. I ca- I can't believe they'd cheat me out of that...
Keeping his eyes fixed down on the table, his appetite had suddenly disappeared as replacing it was a huge, ice ball that formed in the middle of his stomach that wanted him to hit someone-anyone associated with trying to make it so he didn't get to say his last goodbyes. He couldn't understand that'd possess people to be so cruel, especially when the details of the accident was so tragic. Ricky couldn't comprehend any logic- any way that blocking him from attending his parent's funeral made sense in the grand scheme of things. Also.. who paid for everything? From Ricky's knowledge, Babs was on point regarding burials at Gotham Cemetery- only the 'elite' or well-to-do had the pull to get bodies laid to rest there.. it was another question Ricky needed answers for- but first, they needed to devise a plan on how to ensure he'd get to see his parents before they were put to rest.
// Ricky]: The best course of action.. I think.. Would be to show up early and pick a spot to hide, nothing too dramatic but yeah- show up and disguise ourselves long before they show up. If they failed to tell me anything about this, they don't want me there and I know that they'll remove me but try and save face in the process. After this Babs, I'm done listening to what the city says- they can go to hell. I don't know who has it out for me or why, but they've made an enemy out of me.. this is.. this is unreal...
The happiness he had felt moments ago by sharing a moment with Barbara had faded, now he was angry again.. but it came with good reason. No matter what, there was no rational explanation for attempting to keep a boy from seeing his parents at the funeral- that was cruel and it quickly turned him on everything Gotham City was about.. He didn't change how he felt towards Barbara- he had appreciated her sticking her neck out by getting into her father's secretary's eMail account but still.. he had trouble masking the seething rage.
// Ricky]: It's not gonna be easy and I totally understand if you want to either skip out on sneaking around with me- or if you want to see if your dad tips you off and you could ask if he's attending and show up with him. The last thing I'd want you to do is get in trouble- especially because of me. You're already putting a lot on the line with the eMail account, trespassing and possibly breaking and entering? Definitely not something you should risk unless you're absolutely certain it's what you want to do. Regardless- I'm going to the funeral and I'm going to tell my parents goodbye before I make the next decision regarding my life... I've still to decide what's next..
With a deep exhale, one out of utter frustration and anger, Ricky looked up and locked his hands behind his shaved head.. all as he tried to figure out the best course of action. Sneaking in and holding his position seemed like the best bet, but there was no saying how far GCPD would go to ensure no-one that wasn't in on the plans would be blocked from entering the services. Ricky let Barbara's voice reading the eMails bounce through his head- he was so angry with the situation that he was beginning to allow words be replaced- soon, totally new sentences was put there which caused him to get even angrier. As sour as he was- with all the anger that was within, he was still Ricky Grayson- he still was a person of process, so no- he wasn't going to take his anger out on Barbara, that's not fair. He would enjoy the rest of his casual lunch with her and once departing from her company, he would let the rage come back and would go from there..
// Ricky]: Like I said said though Babs.. I totally don't expect you to get into any more trouble over me and this situation. Thank you so much, without your help.. I'd had hated myself forever for missing the one event that will probably forever shape my life. I'm no criminal.. but I'm beginning to see why there's so many of them in this city- it's like Gotham leaves respectable people no choice but to resort to that- I don't sympathize with the nuts like Joker.. Bane or even Scarecrow and Falcone, but.. what if they were put in the same position I was? What if GCPD and whatever stupid government officials made the call blocked Joker from attending his parents funeral? Or if Scarecrow is so ruined mentally because the city decided that it 'knew better' than he did over what the best course of action was for his life? Maybe.. there's a method to their madness..
He wasn't going to turn into a villain overnight.. but if anyone had any reason to do so- he did. The city treated him like garbage and he didn't appreciate it.. and despite the fact that he felt like he wanted to strike back and strike hard- what'd his parents think of that? How would Johnny and Mary Grayson take to the fact that in their death, Ricky didn't use it to further himself, rather.. to wallow and blame everyone for his problems? This could either make or break the kid and despite leaning very heavily letting go and joining the rogue gallery the city has managed to accumulate over the course of it's existence.. something was holding him back- something was giving him hope that there was a better way to do things. He didn't know it yet, but it was that same intuition that would make him a hero to the eyes of so many- a role model and great.. great.. individual. But before the sunshine was a storm- weathering it was the hard part.
// Ricky]: It's totally your call what you wanna do, I'm really cool with whatever you decide. If you wanna keep a low-profile and either- not attend or show up somehow with your dad and company- that's cool.. or if you want to break the law like I have to.. totally fine with that too. Just know, whatever you decide to do will not change how I see you- you're an awesome person Miss Barbara Y. Gordon, as Yvonne is your middle name I suppose. You've helped me greatly and I'll never forget that.. but this is a decision only you can make- I'm cool with whatever you do.
Just to ensure her that he wasn't leaning either way, he let off a smile- a genuine one at that.. all as he looked on in her direction.. unsure over what she'd decide to do.
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Post by Barbara Gordon on Jul 31, 2015 17:04:39 GMT
Barbara felt her heart hurt for the pain Ricky was going through. His face flashed with brief anguish when she gave him the news. She could see his mind assessing the information she'd given him and he scrambled for a plan. Ricky mentioned the villains of Gotham and how he understood their pain. Barbara reluctantly agreed. Anyone could have a really bad day. "It's totally your call what you wanna do, I'm really cool with whatever you decide. If you wanna keep a low-profile and either- not attend or show up somehow with your dad and company- that's cool.. or if you want to break the law like I have to.. totally fine with that too. Just know, whatever you decide to do will not change how I see you- you're an awesome person Miss Barbara Y. Gordon, as Yvonne is your middle name I suppose. You've helped me greatly and I'll never forget that.. but this is a decision only you can make- I'm cool with whatever you do." Ricky smiled and waited patiently for an answer. "Well for a start, my middle name isn't Yvonne. I don't actually have one. Yvonne Craig was just some actress from the 60's..or maybe the 70's. And Ricky...of course I'll help you. We can meet early tomorrow and head over early. Are you going to be ok in the Orphanage over night? What if you can't get out? Should we have a plan B?"At that moment, Barbara's phone started to vibrate. It was her father. Barbara swore under her breath. He knew. He knew she wasn't at the library. Barbara let the phone ring until it stopped vibrating. It pinged to show a voice message had been left. "Ricky...I have to go. I'm so sorry. I feel the worst for leaving you at a time like this but if my Dad catches me there is no way I'll be able to get out of the house tomorrow morning. If you do get out of the orphanage let's meet at Gotham Square at nine."Barbara jumped to her feet feeling guilty. She felt awful for leaving Ricky alone but she knew he'd need her so much more tomorrow. Sliding out from the booth, Barbara leant over to Ricky and kissed him lightly on the cheek. "Don't forget there are still people here for you."Passing the front till as she left, Barbara put a pile of notes by the till knowing it to be enough to cover both of their meals. Waving absent mindedly to Nelson, Barbara stepped out of the diner. |
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