Batgirl arrived at the Batcave on her Batcycle, the roar of the engine echoing against the cavern walls. She dismounted, already moving toward the central console. The familiar chill of the cave was a comfort after the static-charged air of Aurawood.
Alfred Pennyworth stood there, his posture formal as always. He offered her a warm, familiar smile and a steaming mug of tea. The routine was a small anchor in a world that kept throwing surprises.
"Welcome back, Miss Barbara," Alfred said, his voice a calm counterpoint to the hum of the Batcomputer. "I trust your outing was… electrifying?" He raised an eyebrow, a hint of dry amusement in his eyes.
Barbara took the mug, its warmth a welcome sensation in her gloved hands. She appreciated Alfred's understated way of asking.
"You could say that, Alfred," Barbara replied. She took a sip of tea, the familiar blend settling her nerves.
Batman was hunched over the Batcomputer, his gaze intense as data scrolled across the massive screens. He did not look up, but the shift in the air around him was noticeable. He already knew something was wrong.
Barbara relayed her report, the words precise and efficient. She explained the encounter with Zapdos, describing the legendary Pokémon's immense power. She detailed its Electric/Flying typing and its ability to manipulate weather and generate EMPs.
She displayed the Pokédex data Doreen had shared. The limited information felt like a frustrating gap in their intelligence. There was so much they did not know about these creatures.
"Its power output is off the charts," Barbara said. "And we have almost no intel on its long-term behavior or weaknesses beyond basic type matchups. It's a flying, electric enigma, Bruce."
Barbara continued, her voice holding a serious edge. "There is also the growing presence of HYDRA. We've received intel from Valeria. These poachers, the ones after Zapdos, they're HYDRA operatives."
"We don't know their full objective yet," Barbara added, "but they're definitely targeting Zapdos."
"A legendary Pokémon," Batman finally stated, his voice low and gravelly. "Unpredictable. Powerful. This changes the strategic landscape." He recognized the implications immediately.
Batman's posture stiffened, his fingers tightening on the edge of the console. He could already visualize the widespread chaos a creature like Zapdos could unleash. Crippled communication networks, widespread blackouts, and ecological devastation.
He saw the potential for catastrophe, the city plunged into darkness and fear. His expression hardened with resolve, a grim determination setting in his jaw.
"Aurawood needs to be secured immediately," Batman stated, pushing away from the console. "I will personally investigate this Zapdos. Its presence is too great a risk."
Just as he turned, the Batcomputer emitted a sharp, insistent chime. A red alert flashed on the main screen, an urgent communication from Superman. His face was grim, his blue eyes filled with an undeniable urgency.
Batman answered the call, his voice shifting from terse resolve to controlled calm.
"Superman."
"Batman," Superman's voice crackled through the speakers, heavy with concern. "We have a critical situation in Metropolis. A mass riot of metahumans. Dozens of powers flaring out of control, causing widespread destruction."
Batman's jaw tightened. He processed the severity of the crisis instantly. The need for a full Justice League response was clear.
"The Flash is already on scene, trying to contain the perimeter," Superman continued. "But we need everyone. Wonder Woman, Cyborg, Martian Manhunter… all available League members."
A flicker of frustration crossed Batman's eyes. One legendary Pokémon, and now a city-wide metahuman riot. The world seemed to be testing its new limits.
"I understand the gravity of the situation," Batman stated, his tone firm. "I am en route."
Alfred, ever perceptive, anticipated Batman's needs. He had already begun inputting coordinates for the Batplane's immediate departure.
"I shall prepare the Batplane, Master Bruce,"
"I apologize, Barbara," Batman said, his voice a low rumble. "The Metropolis situation demands immediate attention from the entire League. The Zapdos investigation must be postponed."
His regret was a subtle shift in his posture, a momentary hesitation before the urgent call of duty. He trusted her judgment, but some threats were too great for individual action.
Barbara's shoulders drooped a fraction, a quiet sigh escaping her. She felt the weight of the Zapdos threat. The idea of leaving it unchecked was a problem.
"I understand, Bruce," Barbara replied, her voice soft but determined. "But perhaps… perhaps I could continue the investigation in Aurawood? Alone?"
A spark of defiance flickered in her eyes. She wanted to prove her capabilities. This was a chance to contribute in a meaningful way.
Batman's response was swift, his voice firm and unwavering. He turned fully to her, his white eyes glowing with a warning.
"No, Barbara," Batman stated, his words clipped. "Not without backup."
His gaze was absolute, a silent command that left no room for argument. He would not risk one of his own against a creature of unknown power. It was too unpredictable, too dangerous for a solo run.
Barbara paused, her mind already racing through possibilities. Orion Oak. He knew more about Pokémon than anyone. He was the one who brought them here. He would know about Zapdos.
"Perhaps I could consult with Orion Oak," Barbara suggested, a new plan forming in her mind. "He is the authority on these creatures."
Batman considered this, his gaze still fixed on the screen showing the Metropolis crisis. It was a logical alternative, given the circumstances. He trusted Barbara's judgment.
"Very well," Batman conceded, a slight nod of his head. "Keep me informed. Regular reports."
He did not need to add the unspoken warning; Barbara understood the stakes involved. This was not a game.
"Understood, Bruce," Barbara confirmed. She turned from the console, the mug of tea now forgotten on the table.
She walked with purpose toward her Batcycle, the sleek machine waiting silently in the cavernous space. The engine hummed to life, a low growl that filled the Batcave.
Barbara mounted the Batcycle, a determined set to her jaw. The Batcomputer's screens flickered behind her, casting long shadows. She was off to Pokémon Home.
***
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