Blood, sweat, death and tears

[Mary Bromfield - Lady Marvel]

Deadlines. Paperwork inspections. Meetings. Business trips. Welcome back Miss Bromfield, I quit. Just a small sampling of the many facets that come with having taken over the reins of her adopted father's company. Ah the joys of big business. Welcome to the top of the social ladder and the world of major corporations and all of that.

Mary's inner thoughts raced as she strode in through the top floor of the tall, tall bulding that was The main headquarters of Bromfield Enterprises with Mary's posh office therein. Back following an overseas business trip in Paree', the city of lights, fancy French cuisine and one very big tower, one of the most recognizable landmarks.

"Welcome back Miss Bromfield, I quit."

Not exactly the first thing Mary would admit to wanting to hear when she returned but it wasn't much of a surprise either. The woman had been a temp. really. That was the understanding between both parties when she was hired. Her father's old secretary had retired last month and Mary was in need of a replacement. She got saddled with a young college student who was merely looking for summer employment and had no intention of making this a permanent gig. Mary was fine with that, she would bring alot to the table if her resume was any indication. She also brought a foul mouth, rotten attitude and generally made this building lot less pleasant work environment. More trouble than she was worth

Mary Bromfield on the other hand had been well served, both on the night before she left Paris and on the long plane ride back. One cocktail too many and was only in the office today to check in, pick up mail and now apparently to hire a secretary. Normally not the vindictive type or angry sort in general. Diane Ramone was her name, and Diana had just picked the wrong time to smart off to her employer once too often, an employer she seemed to expect to whine and cry and beg her to stay.

Not today. And not the first time Diana had played this little game but it would be the last.

"Kthanksbye. Don't let the door hit you in the ass on the way out." She murmured behind slightly slurred speech, entered her office and locked the door behind her, pressing an intercom system key as soon as she squatted behind her desk.

"Iff Miss Ramone is not off the premises in 2 minutes have her arrested. Thank you kindly."

Tomorrow it seemed she be here in the office screening applicants for the now available secretarial position. For now she would be glued to her chair, plans for the rest of the day blown to kingdom come. Oh joy of joys, The floozy even scheduled a few more appointments for today ater explicit instructions that Mary would be unavailable for 2 more days during which she'd be inspecting one of the factories owned by the company. Another change of plans.

It's a jungle out there but Mary wouldn't have it any other way. Determined to prove both to herself, her board of directors and all the companies employees that she deserved what had been handed to her and it wasn't a responsibility she took lightly. Mary Bromfield had worked her butt off since day one to make a great company even better and she had only just begun..

After striding across the office, high heels kicked off and her bare feet enjoying the embrace of the plush carpet beneath them enroute to snagging a cup of coffee and unlocking the door, she was back behind her desk and a stack of mail that included a few packages and FedEx shipments. One of them addre3ssed not the the company but to her specifically. All of them could wait. Nothing felt better than relaxing as she leaned back, cleared the desktop in one swipe and waited for the first appointment to arrive.

[Oswald Cobblepot]

"Gotta get dat money, run'n for mayor ain't cheap ya know?"

● Oswald Chesterfield Cobblepot ●

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He had to get out of the gloomy setting of Gotham- he needed a break from the bouts of depression the city seemed to dawn on him with. After news of an impressionable, possible donor to the Cobblepot Candidacy for Mayor of Gotham, he had an arrangement set up and managed to take himself out to Metropolis where things were much.. much different than in Gotham. For one, the setting- how bright everything was. If Las Vegas and New York was mixed together and spit out a child, it'd be Metropolis. A great city with an important news press and 2 companies on the verge of massive finacial explosions- Cobblepot couldn't help but to keep himself away from it. Nevertheless, he arrived at a skyscraper that represented the home for one of the nation's newer Fortune 500 powerhouses; Bromfield Enterprises. It's CEO- as Cobblepot had learned through word of mouth was still young- young in his eyes meant possibly manipulated and if Cobblepot was anything aside of a liar, politician [which goes hand-in-hand with liar], a thief, criminal and all-around bad man.. Manipulator was up there and he hoped to get a new backer for his 'campaign' which was just a fancy word for "money used to takeover Gotham's underworld."

● O. Cobblepot ● "Miss Bromfield and I have an appointment in about 15 minutes.."

With his finger pressing down on a black buzzer attached to the door- The noticeable thick Eastern American accent had disappeared, now Cobblepot needed to put on his 'business' voice which made him sound a lot more intellectual and.. believable as a man looking to 'change' Gotham in a good way.

● Intercom ● "Mister Cobblepot?"

Adjusting the gold frame, designer glasses pressed against his face he nodded lightly.

● O. Cobblepot ● "Yes, that's me."

With a buzz, the door unlocked and opened inwards, allowing Cobblepot to step into the lobby of the building. He was dressed in a pretty snazzy black suit with a white shirt beneath it. He limped his way into the corridor before heading towards the security/check-in desk, manned by 3 different individuals, all dressed in suits and ties too- making them look like the president's Secret Service. Approaching the desk, Cobblepot removed the glasses from his face and held it in his left hand as he let off a smile in the direction of the guards.

● O. Cobblepot ● "Good afternoon gentlemen.. I'm not sure of your protocol but, I've got business with Miss Bromfield. A scheduled appointment in about fifteen minutes?"

The guard in the center nodded vaguely before turning his attention down to a planner inspired piece of paper, before stopping with his index finger and looked up.

● Guard ● "Oh yes, I see the appointment Mister.. um, I mean Mayor Cobblepot. Ken, escort Mayor to the elevator and then to Miss Bromfield's meeting office."

Being friendly whilst under the disguise of a politician wasn't too difficult for Cobblepot, it came natural to him. With a nod, Cobblepot followed the guard presumably named 'Kenny' towards an elevator in which he instantly noticed was only activated by a key-card swipe. Both entered the elevator; Cobblepot was allowed in first as a sign of respect from the guard, which Ken followed. Once they both were in, Cobblepot noticed another swipe of the key-card then the guard pressing "MR10" and they were off. It was a pretty swift ride, once they arrived a >DING< sounded before the metal doors opened to the side and lead directly to a room that looked a lot like a board-room. Ken lead Cobblepot to a chair on the opposite side of the table and once he took a seat, the guard nodded.

● Ken ● "Miss Bromfield will be joining you shortly."

Both men exchanged nods of gratitude as Ken soon left the room the same way he entered. Cobblepot's eyes scanned the area, trying to find anything that could be of use in the future, but wasn't so fortunate. Whether it was by design or not- the board room wasn't decorated with anything that'd say a lot regarding who this young, successful CEO was. Sure, there was a few pictures of triumphs, but nothing too extraordinary and that slowly begun to work on Cobblepot's temper, as it popped into his mind that this visit has the chance to be a total bust. After a minute or two- the familiar >DING< of the elevator sounded, the doors once again opened as Cobblepot pushed himself to his feet slowly and shifted the weight onto the cane that pressed into the tiled floor below him

● O. Cobblepot ● "Miss Bromfield?"

With his attention still in the direction of the elevator, Cobblepot put on another fake- yet highly believable smile as he awaited a reply from the woman.

[Mary Bromfield - Lady Marvel]

A few minutes of sitting back within her private office, feet propped up on her British styled, old antique desk sipping coffee was followed by the owner of this fortune 500 company collecting everything she'd slid off the desk back off the floor and restoring it to her desk in orderly fashion. Including the not-too-small FedEx shipment that seemed to have something rattling around inside when she picked it up. There was no time to slice the tape and take the peek, she had still to look at the address stamp which she assumed at this point was addressed to her but the calendar she had placed back on the left corner of her desk was a reminder of more pressing concerns. She had 15 minutes until an appointment that had actually been scheduled before she left for France arrived inside the board room.

Spending the next few minutes rifling through paperwork, scrutinizing every page and sketching her signature wherever needed, it didn't last long before she was driven to distraction. By why a candidate for mayor in the neighboring city of Gotham would come to her of all people seeking campaign donations. By thoughts of her own slightly diminished lack of confidence in her abilities to run this huge conglomerate. She had the determination, the knowledge that comes from hearing her father talk about the company for all these years and all the other tools, yet she doubted she was really worth or ready for it.

She never wanted the company as long as her father had been alive. She had grown up with her own dreams and she never would have wanted Bromfield Enterrpises under these circumstances. Growing up all she ever wanted to do was move into the country and run a farm. She loved animals and the wide open spaces often called her name. Now things were different. The company was thrust upon her. There was no turning back, it was her responsibility. Still there had to be more to life than sitting back in a swivel chair, crossing T's, dotting I's, making corporate decisions and watching the dollars roll in. There had to be more, didn't there? She'd never admit it so openly but she needed guidance.

In the next 15 minutes the box had a significant hand in driving her to distraction as well. Something about it. She just couldn't tear her eyes away. The more she tried the more she found herself reaching for it until at last it too was sitting directly before her. Was she crazy or was that an Egyptian postmark she saw? Even weirder was her discovery that it was addressed not to Bromfield Enterprises or even Mary Bromfield but to some woman named Mary Batson

Why or who had made such a bonehead play and delivered this to the wrong address was beyond her wildest guess. She should have taped it back up right then and there but the box was compelling. There seemed to be no0thing special about it and yet the temptation to open it was so strong.

No harm in a quick peek then I'll close it back up and ship it back air-mail

If Mary Bromfield had been a kitten she'd be laying on the floor belly up paws reaching skyward and have breathed her last breath. You know the saying about curiosity after all. A pair of scissors held tightly in her right hand she had just slid them all the way across the top, broken the seal and started to lift it open when her intercom buzzed.

● Intercom ● "Miss Bromfield? Ken Stevens, head of security. Mr. Cobblepot has arrived."

● Mary Bromfield ● "Fine. Direct him to the board room and inform him I will be with him shortly. Thank you."

A deep sigh of annoyance but with a slight resounding of anticipation as well spilled from her lips and echoed into the interior of her private office. Up on her feet with the box in hand, she strode across the carpet toward a hidden wall closet that only she and her father before her knew existed, placed the package inside so as to leave nothing to chance and prying eyes and made her way out, down the elevator and casually toward the company board room after making sure her hair was smoothly in place and outfit looked befitting of a woman in her position of power. Exuding confidence even though she wasn't completely brimming with it was crucial. Especially now.

It was still a mystery as to why a mayoral candidate from Gotham would come to Metropolis and particularly to her, the admitted novice that she was compared to her father, Lex Luthor and Bruce Wayne but she wasn't about to look a gift horse in the mouth. She knew little about Oswald Cobblepot at this stage of the game but if she was satisfied with what she heard it could give Bromfield Enterprises a much needed shot of adrenaline to the arm. It was flattering in fact that he had come to her instead of Lexcorp or Wayne Enterprises. Clearly, she was doing something right. She only hoped the lack of bling and fancy mementos pictures and degrees or whatever filling the walls wasn't a turn-off. She was down to Earth, a bottom line, no frills type who once again lacked the type experience at this point to know keeping up appearances was everything.

● Mary Bromfield ● "Hello Mr Cobblepot."

She gave a slight smile and extended the offering of a handshake before gesturing toward a seat and taking one of her own.

● Mary Bromfield ● "I must say I have been looking forward to this meeting. The word is your campaign is off to a successful start. Now to what do I owe the honor of this meeting?"

She asked, her thoughts being difficult in tearing themselves off of the box in her hidden closet to focusing on the task at hand. With her lack of overall knowledge of the man, this would have to be a hell of a sales pitch.

[Oswald Cobblepot]

● O. Cobblepot ● ".. The honor of knowing that funding my campaign is not just a major tax break for you, but also the comfort in the knowledge of me bringing.. change.."

The way he spoke "change," was debatable. There was multiple ways the word could be taken, it depended on the mind of the receipient of the comment. Cobblepot had the urge to light a stogie but fought it off- he didn't want to offend Bromfield, he knew very little about her aside of the fact she had money, lots.. and lots of money.

● O. Cobblepot ● "I decided that I wouldn't come here with the typical approach of a Powerpoint and a laser to point out the positives and negatives, it's not my style. I'm a straight to the point kinda guy Mary.. I can call you Mary, right?"

He didn't wait for a reply- instead he just continued to speak with a smirk blasted across his face. What was being rendered now was a mixture between politician and mobster, the best kind of hybrid for business. Cobblepot's intent wasn't being rude, it was being frank- there was things that needed to be said and checks that needed to be signed.

● O. Cobblepot ● "Awesome. So I'll tell you this.. By contributing to my campaign as I look to 'clean up' Gotham City of it's leeches and parasites, I'll name you as a very generous donor. It's that kind of word of mouth that elevates you in the public eye. You're like what- 24? 25? You're still a young woman, with the right contributions made in my way Miss Bromfield.. I can assure you gasps of honor and smiles of joy by being associated with me. I could of passed and decided to hit up your inner-city rival- Luthor.. But I didn't. I came straight to you as I think you've got much more to earn from the financial contribution than Luthor does- so what do you say?"

As fast as he appeared- which was essentially out of no where, he dropped his bombshell on Bromfield. He held back a lot of the details regarding the actual tunnel the financial support would travel in, but as Cobblepot liked to say, it was all "formalities." What mattered the most was a generous donation from Bromfield Enterprises to the possible next Mayor of Gotham as he continues to abuse the Dent Act and 'change Gotham' would look very good on Bromfield's resume- something Cobblepot knew could persuade nearly anyone. Whether or not Bromfield had suspicions regarding Cobblepot's true intentions remained to be seen- but as of now; Cobblepot looked on in Bromfield's direction scratching at an itch on the side of his face- awaiting a reply from Bromfield.

[Mary Bromfield - Lady Marvel]

Mary sat squarely in her seat, fingers steepled before her face, eyes glued on the man. She picked up every word without missing a beat, weighing them heavily backwards and forwards in her mind and trying to recall everything, although it might not have been much, everything she'd learned of the potential future mayor. He was making quite the splash in Gotham and seemed to be quite the crowd pleaser in that sister city.

Her expression showed no change nor did her body language even when his tone of voice might have change He could make a bundle on the motivational speaker circuit, that much was certain. There were questions she probably needed to ask. Questions her father would have asked surely if he had been here but then Oswald Cobblepot could have taken her questioning any number of ways, some that might end with him walking out the door before she could stop him. This was why Bromfield Enterprises, even after all the fine years Nick Bromfield spent running it, hadn't really come close to nearing it's fullest potential. It still wasn't quite there but it was on the fast track. Sometimes snap decisions had to be made. It was then that the ever so figurative light bulb went off in her head. She knew how to play this.

● Mary Bromfield ● "You've made some excellent points, Oswald." Mary started in, putting extra emphasis on the word Oswald but in a sweet as honey tone of voice to show she was using his first name because he had taken the same liberty without waiting for her to grant it. Still the man was indeed direct, knew what he wanted and the most valid point he made was that he could easily have gone to Lexcorp and she twisted slightly in her seat upon hearing Cobblepot imply that he could have with an underlying implication that he would if things fizzled in this meeting. What she was about to do may not be packed with scruples and might not be part of a nutritious breakfast if it were breakfast cereal instead of a sales pitch but he was right. Bromfield Enterprises needed this and she wasn't about to let him shuffle off to Luthor.

● Mary Bromfield ● "Straight and to the point. All business and no frills. We do have a bit in common from a business aspect and it's because of that I can tell you this, Mr. Cobblepot."

She paused for a moment, reaching into her purse and sliding out her checkbook with a pen.

● Mary Bromfield ● "Good luck in your campaign and I look forward to doing business with you. Both now and in the future. I am giving you what you need financially and my endorsement as well." She promised before lowering her eyes and filling out the check.

● Mary Bromfield ● ""I can even top that off with a little green icing if you so desire. It's not however good business to plant pumpkin seeds and expect to grow corn. I would simply like to know a little more about what your plan is for Gotham and what type of projects you has lined up, Mr. Mayor."

[Oswald Cobblepot]

Questions.. Questions. There was a line that Cobblepot kept cleverly hidden behind his charm and bluntness and he maintained that by NOT answering questions. As Mary's words bounced through his head like a Pong-ball, he took a second to craft the right way to words things before it'd look bad on his part that the lies he was about to tell, because.. he was laying- would be transparent. Knowing he had Mary on the brink of a pretty substantial donation- Cobblepot shrugged his shoulders lightly and forced off a smile- still a very convincing one as he cleared his throat.

● O. Cobblepot ● "Well, how familiar are you with Gotham?"

Shrugging, Mary didn't reply- Cobblepot was relieved. He knew that the batch of lies on the back burner would be sufficient enough to carry him out of the door eventually with a hefty check in his pocket.

● O. Cobblepot ● "It's not a pretty place- not like your Metropolis is. Aside of having the highest crime rate in the nation, the city has felt the crippling blow of losing a lot of important people. There was a guy.. A D.A.. Harvey Dent. A lot of the people leaned on him like a crutch to provide Gotham with hope- but he was killed. Aside of the crime, you've got some freak running around in a mask and in teflon, running cars over with a freakin' half tank, half car.. And we can't have that."

Well, there was no lies there. Gotham was a black hole, not a lot of people moved forward in actions to solidify or even venture to put a business there. Between the vandalism and the high percentage of theft and robbery- it wasn't worth it. Cobblepot lived in Gotham for majority of his life before venturing later on, but he knew what the city was capable of, and he knew how fast it could swallow the weak. He had his fingers on Gotham's pulse, and it was lowering, the city had grew complacent which was why it was time to interject it with a dose of adrenaline. By taking over it's underworld, by securing most of Falcone's men, Cobblepot's moves were highly successful but the whispers of another that lobbied for control were beginning to grow louder- that's why Cobblepot needed to use the front of campaign donations, he needed to strengthen his criminal empire- Mary Bromfield was the unsuspecting victim in this scheme.

● O. Cobblepot ● ".. Out of my own pocket, with the generous donations from the likes of you.. I plan on funding a project named "Code Black," which is a way to hunt down and terminate the services of the Batman. There's been too much destruction to the city, too much chaos is raging through the streets. I had to up and leave the city, Mary. I had to leave behind my roots because the city was no longer as friendly as it once was! Everything I had, everyone I knew.. I was forced to leave it behind because Gotham was unsafe.. And years later, even with "The Dent Act" in place, things are still out of control! Someone that knows Gotham, a man like myself who comes from a long-line of Gothamites, I know how to put not just faith.. not just hope.. not just justice, but honor. I know how to bring the city back to it's prideful beginnings! With donations, I can fund services and projects that doesn't take away from the citizens with tax hikes."

The gloves was off, the lies were underway. A man like Cobblepot didn't feel bad about misleading people, he figured it needed to be done to gain what he needs. He didn't 'leave' Gotham, he was ran out by bickering parties who wanted him to repay the state for the ridiculous debts his mother racked up. Cobblepot's departure from Gotham was well covered up and disguised, but the truth was- he left because he had to, not because he wanted to. His agenda with the Batman? It was truthful, he wanted to remove Batman from Gotham but for his own personal benefit.. He wanted no threats to his empire. As Mayor, he would have unrivaled power- he'd rule both City Hall AND the Underworld. Before this could be done, he needed to ensure he had all his ducks in a row- and that started with 'donations,' or- schemes.

● O. Cobblepot ● "Between removing the Batman from Gotham, weeding out corruption within Gotham City's Police Department which starts at the top with Commissioner Jim Gordon.. And providing the citizens with a safe haven.. I need all the financial help I can get. I come to you Mary, not as a beggar, but a man who wants- no.. no.. as a man who demands change. And change? It begins with me, being elected as Mayor of Gotham."

The years of training to make himself sound believable had paid off. He was very convincing, which made him a better criminal, but he knew he had Mary on the ropes. As he looked on, he adjusted himself so his body weight was back on the specialized cane beneath him as eyed down at the check laying on the table before up at Mary with another manipulative smile etched across his face.. nodding with a light sigh.

[Mary Bromfield - Lady Marvel]

Mary was not completely unfamiliar with Gotham City. She read newspapers, heard news here and there that mentioned how messed up the place was. There were rumors, gossip, scuttlebutt about the masked menace known as Batman haunting the streets but some thought he was an urban legend. Mary had too until Cobblepot confirmed the heresy. The more she listened however, the more Mary seethed on the inside. Her blood started to boil and bubble over that one man could be allowed to drive through the streets like he owned them and cause so much chaos. Some say he was a hero. Mary wasn't seeing it. The man seemed very much twisted and the law enforcement of the city was no better for allowing it to happen. Corrupt indeed.

● Mary Bromfield ● "The city certainly does sound like a nightmare straight out of something Stephen King would right. A horror story come to life. Masked creatures of the night running rampant, terrorizing and enforcing his will on people. A corrupt commissioner that seems to care less and violence & criminals wreaking havoc. It sounds like alot for one man to dare and try to clean up singlehandedly and I don't know how much one person can do on their own but it takes guts to try. I have to hand it to you."

Mary had bitten into his political rhetoric that was a cleverly disguised pack of lies hook, line, and sinker. She clearly was impressed with his gumption and interest in such a mammoth sized undertaking and now he had her in his corner. If her money combined with his desire to make the city a better place could make it all come true then she would do whatever it took to turn dreams to reality.

Her eyes diverted again back to the check, at last filling in the amount, a deed she had purposely hesitated on, wanting to hear him explain, and now more than satisfied, she gave him extra on top of what she had originally promised. It wouldn't hurt the company. She had already & secretly to top it off, arranged to make a donation to the campaign of Gubernatorial candidate David Patrick. David was originally planning to try to snag Lexcorp but Mary had played her cards right and somehow at the eleventh hour convinced him to do business with Bromfield Enterprises. She doubted even Lex was aware of it yet but this afternoon the deal would be sealed if all went well.

Back in the here and now, Mary Bromfield had a confident smile on her lips as she looped the last zero in the space where the numbers go and delicately slid the slip of paper face down across the table to the next mayor of Gotham.


● Mary Bromfield ● "Gotham may not be my city, Oswald but now I am just as concerned about it as you are. You not only have my attention you have a nice chunk of my change as well. I want change as badly as you do and if there's anything I can do in the future to assist you do not hesitate to call me."

Her butt was on the line now, her reputation and possibly the future of Bromfield Enterprises if this went south. It was almost enough to make the thought of doing something to ensure it DIDN'T go south cross the mind of a person with even the highest of morals and best of intent.

[Oswald Cobblepot]

The check Bromfield just wrote brought a wicked smile across of Cobblepot's face for a brief second- almost being caught in the act Cobblepot let it fade to a normal. Sliding it across the table, Cobblepot heard the click of the pen in Bromfield's hands as he graciously accepted the "donation."

● O. Cobblepot ● "I'll definitely let it be known that your donation came in good faith."

The day had gone well, Cobblepot's trip to Metropolis will be considered an absolute success. Picking the check up, he glanced it over just for personal reasons- just to bring joy into his well hidden, but very selfish little life and slipped it into his chest pocket as he extended his right hand out to Mary.

● O. Cobblepot ● "Well Miss Bromfield, I feel like I've taken way more of your time than needed. Once again I want to thank you for your time and major contribution to your bettering of Gotham in my behalf. I'll be sure to send you the paperwork necessary for the tax write-off and complimentary gift.."

The charm paid off, Cobblepot was about to bank a pretty hefty sum of money. Unknown to him- Gotham's underworld was currently under attack by a new, mysterious force. He didn't know that during the span of his trip he lost a few dozens of guys in organized hits- most of them having their faces burnt off through having their heads dipped in acid- charring their skulls black. He wouldn't find that out until later though, his associates knew better than to even attempt to contact Cobblepot when he was on business. With the modern advances in technology, it was unbelievable how Cobblepot has managed to fly under the radar this long. There was times when someone had suspicions regarding Cobblepot's methods but no-one has been able to successfully prove his criminal doings. As he kept his hand extended out towards Bromfield though, he continued to carry that smile as he looked on.

[Clark Kent]

So my interview with Lex didn’t go down, honestly; the guy was a bit of a jerk but I knew that I needed to get something – I couldn’t return to The Daily Planet with nothing but what could possibly fall into my lap?

Ring… Ring…

That was strange, I reached down grabbing my cell phone; pressing the button on the touch screen, I answered it kind of confused.

Woman, “Mr. Kent, I have some information that you might want.”

Clark, “Who is this?”

Woman, “Lois… Lois Lane, I work with you Clark.”

Clark, “Hi Miss. Lane, what is that information?”

Lois, “Mr. Cobblepot went and seen Mary Bromfield, rumors are circulating that he is looking to get an endorsement for his candidacy. If you hurry over there, maybe you can make it before he leaves.”

Clark, “Thank you Lois!”

Lois, “Hurry over there Clark!”

Quickly heading to my car, I climbed in and started the engine pulling out of the parking lot of Lex Corp to head to Bromfield’s office. I knew that I needed to hurry, time was of the essence.

Thirty minutes later…

As I had arrived, I noticed that there was a limousine in the parking area which belonged to Mr. Cobblepot. Parking my car, I got out and walked casually closer to the building; I really needed to get some information on what was going on but I knew that Bromfield was not just going to let me in but I had a backup plan. While standing there casually, I listened on with one of my super abilities known as super hearing. I listened until I heard Cobblepot’s voice as I had seen him on TV, afterwards; I was going to get this interview – one way or another.

[Mary Bromfield - Lady Marvel]

If she had been more keenly aware, she might have noticed the smile that appeared on the face of the future mayor of Gotham City, but now with their business nearly at it's conclusion, for now Mary Bromfield's thoughts and attention span was divided. She had something waiting for her that needed her time. It almost seemed to be calling her name if such a thing were possible and as silly as it sounds, she would almost swear that fool box was singing to her and magnetically trying to draw her back where she left it. First however there was something else she had to say to the politician.

Her face stayed straight in it's expression, keeping a business like air about her even as she reached and graciously accepted the handshake, then putting her other hand on top for a moment, clearing her throat to make sure her final request would hit the mark loud and clear.

● Mary Bromfield ● "Yes, yes. I look forward to the paperwork and this gift of yours although the latter really isn't necessary. I am just a concerned citizen of a sister city wanting to help clean up the trash you are forced to live among. And speaking of which let me say again that your campaign is my campaign now too. You can understand I hope as much as I have invested in you. That just goes to show how much confidence i have in your abilities, Mr. Cobblepot. That being said, let me reiterate that if you have need of me or my resources in the future or face any unforeseen problems that complicate your situation, all you have to do is call and I will be there for you. I look forward to hearing of your progress. It's been a pleasure and my security will see you out if you wish. Good day, Mr. Mayor."

[Oswald Cobblepot]

With a nod, Cobblepot understood Bromfield's offer but it wasn't in his nature to go to the same source twice, especially when it could put him in hot water. As they released hands, Cobblepot reached into his chest pocket and pulled out a pair of gold framed aviator, placing it over his eyes- he defined cool. As security reached the door upon him opening it, Cobblepot's back was faced towards Bromfield but that didn't stop him from firing off that wicked smile of his. Once he stepped out, he felt the phone vibrating in his pocket and nodded off the security as he reached the elevator-

● O. Cobblepot ● "Thanks boys, I got it from here."

The elevator dinged as the metal doors opened- Cobblepot stepped in and before security could follow him, he pressed the 'elevator shut' button which to his surprise, worked quickly. Once in the elevator, he pulled his phone from his pocket and unlocked it by running his finger across the bottom of the screen- all that as he read the text under his breath.

● O. Cobblepot ● "Boss.. New guy finally showed his face, he took down politicians and cops, call me when you get this ASAP.."

Firing off a heavy grimace, he knew that things was going to go South to a degree with him leaving Gotham but he didn't expect it to be TOO bad. Nevertheless, slipping the phone back in his pocket his fist clenched as he was just about to deck the wall but the door dinged open- and there standing? A young man with a pair of black framed, trendy glasses and a small note-pad in his hand with a bright smile.

● O. Cobblepot ● ".. Great.."

[Clark Kent]

Clark, “Mr. Cobblepot, pleasure to meet you!”

I extended my hand out to him, offering a friendly gesture in a handshake but the look that was stretched along his face was none too pleased. After a moment, I retracted my hand realizing he was not going to accept my handshake so instead – I decided to fire off with a few hard hitting questions.

Clark, “Mr. Cobblepot, sources tell me that you have been contacting Mr. Luthor looking for endorsements on your campaign, is this true? Why come to Metropolis for these endorsements instead of going to Mr. Wayne in Gotham?”

With my notepad in hand and my ink pen anxiously waiting; I was ready and pretty eager to hear his answers.

[Oswald Cobblepot]

Cobblepot didn't like this, he hated questions. The only reason he withstood the barrage of Mary Bromfield was because he wanted- no, he needed that financial donation to fund his criminal doing. With a scowl spread over his face- Cobblepot wasn't a very happy man but Clark was pushing it, and Cobblepot was on the verge of snapping. With the stress back in Gotham and his guys dropping like flies- Cobblepot glanced at Clark, noticing his rather unusual build for a reporter.

● O. Cobblepot ● "Wow guy, are you a news reporter or a damned linebacker? Look at those shoulders!"

Cobblepot attempted to use a subtle joke to throw Clark's attention off- but as Cobblepot was on the verge of leaving.. Something suddenly occurred to him- Lex Luthor's name coming up. Cobblepot's intentions had remained unsaid until then- nobody knew that after meeting with Mary Bromfield, Cobblepot was going to have an organized, business lunch with Mister Luthor regarding other topics.. And this suddenly caused Cobblepot's head to sweat. How Clark knew that was pretty eerie- but SAYING it, let alone in Bromfield's building!?

● O. Cobblepot ● "A heh.. Lex.. Who? Lex Luger? The wrestler? He's in Metropolis?"

Clark wasn't buying it, that's as Cobblepot had enough of the games. Barging through Clark, knocking the notepad out of his hands and sending the pen soaring through the air- Clark wasn't ready for all that body mass to crack him like that as Clark did a slight 180 as Cobblepot marched forward.

● O. Cobblepot ● "What the hell ever happened to good old fashioned hard work!? God damn paparazzi and media always making something outta nothing!"

Something within Cobblepot wanted to turn around- or better yet, get Guido Seals on the phone and have a little 'squad' come up on Clark, maybe break a shin- crack a fibula- something of that nature. There was a huge reason why Oz never traveled out of Gotham; security measures. He wasn't comfortable outside of the walls of the city he was due to own soon, he knew he was safe there. Metropolis was a whole different beast and this meeting alone cemented that for him. As he continued to walk away, he glanced over his shoulder at Clark who was fumbling to gather his note-pad and pen as- far- probably about fifteen to twenty feet away from Clark, Cobblepot said beneath his breath..

● O. Cobblepot ● "Clark Kent? What an asshole.."

[Clark Kent]

Clark, “I am not an A-hole!”

Watching Cobblepot stop and turn around, I noticed that I had screwed up. I quickly fumbled with my words and knew that I needed to get out of here already having possibly given up my power. I looked at Cobblepot, smirking while quickly back pedaling.

Clark, “I uh… Have to get going…”

Looking at my watch to try throwing him off, I held my note pad and ink pen in my right hand while heading to my car – man things didn’t go as I had intended, that and I just knew that Mr. White was going to chew me out for not getting the scoop; my first day was not going so well.

[Oswald Cobblepot]

Blinking once- then twice, Cobblepot was suddenly interested in who this was and how he had managed to get the information he blurted out. As he managed to reach the limo waiting for him outside of Bromfield's HQ, Cobblepot reached into his coat-pocket again and pulled out a Cuban cigar and lit it up. Taking s long puff from it, he sighed, he was finally at ease. The door was opened for him as he hobbled into the car, first tossing the cane in, and then followed. Getting into the back of the limo, the door closed as he yanked out his cell and quickly dialed a number.

● O. Cobblepot ● "Guido, where you at?!"

The mobster had returned- and he was back at full force. Taking another hit from his cigar, he allowed the voice on the other end to continue before replying.

● O. Cobblepot ● "K, first off.. I want you to write dis name down and run it through whatever channels you can.. You got'a pen? K.. Da name is.. Clark.. Kent.. No with a "are" how else you tink you spell Kent, dummy?!"

The limo moved forward now this was as Cobblepot used his shoulder to press the phone against his ear as he unbuttoned the top of his suit.

● O. Cobblepot ● "Secondly, I saw the video.. Anybody else got whacked since then?"

The video he was talking about was the mysterious- gritty recorded video sent to Cobblepot with a few of his guys- both cops and politicians before tortured by a freak in a mask. Oz didn't know who and what he was dealing with but he was fuming for the chance to get that person in the same room with him and get his hands around his throat. Nevertheless, the vein on Cobblepot's forehead thumped as his blood-pressure spiked through the roof, all of this as he cracked his neck and sighed sharply.

● O. Cobblepot ● "You say'n we lost those 6 PLUS an additional crew and a half!? So we lost 35 FUCK'N PEOPLE IN A GOD DAMN WEEK!? GAH!"

His face turned beet red as his eyes got extremely small. Holding the phone an inch away from his mouth he looked down at it and shouted in it.

● O. Cobblepot ● "I WANT YOU TO FIND WHO'S DO'N DIS AND PUNISH'EM! I WANT'EM TO HAVE HANDS LIKE PENGUIN'S FEET! I WANT THEIR EYES SEWN SHUT! I WANT THEIR GOD DAMN HEADS ON A PLATTER, GUIDO! YA HEAR ME!? I WANT THIS GUY DEAD! I WANT'EM DEAD!"

His shouting match had concluded as he whipped the phone across of the back of the limo- bouncing off of the bulletproof glass that seperated Cobblepot from the driver. The >THUD> caused the glass to move down- this as Cobblepot hyperventilated from anger- a big man like that couldn't take stress to the level it was reaching. Biting at the skin between his thumb and index finger, he dug into it with rage as things was beginning to look bad for Cobblepot's army, especially with that tape floating around and the people dying..

● Driver ● "Where to sir?"

Beyond the glasses that hid his eyes, Cobblepot was seething.. it didn't take a rocket scientist to figure that one out. Removing his hand from his mouth he kept breathing hard as he nodded upwards.

● O. Cobblepot ● ".. LexCorp.. Take me to LexCorp.. I got some business to tend to with Luthor."

With that said it was apparent that Cobblepot knew no loyalty, he just raked in a huge donation from Bromfield and now he was going to hatch out more from Luthor, or- attempt to. As the driver put the window back up, Cobblepot reclined in the back, leather seats as continued to puff on his cigar knowing that when he got back to Gotham, hell would be coming with him as he'd have to straighten out the disrespect that's being thrown his way.. But until then? Bromfield was a success- now it's time to move onto another venture.. Lex Luthor..