» undetriginta [voice post; encrypted to Alfred and open to known DC heroes]

[unkindnessof]

[static and then Raven's voice comes on, tight and far too neutral; it's clear that she's wrapped herself with all the wards and mental barriers she can, though in this case, not to keep anyone out but to keep something in.]

Sorry to trouble you, Alfred, but if there's an antidote for Scarecrow's gas available, I may need some about now. The

Comments

[H-H-Haxxored - also Audio]

[is_fear_itself]

So I did leave a mark on you.

[Audio]

[unkindnessof]

[tense silence reigns until she's sure she can talk without those weird nuances in her voice.]

Don't try it again.

[Audio]

[is_fear_itself]

Oh, I assure you... you've given me very good incentive.

It's an antidote you want, then, hm? Some solace for your suffering?

[Audio]

[unkindnessof]

Here's a question for you: do you have any survival instincts whatsoever?

[Audio]

[is_fear_itself]

If I do, they take their cues from my scientific curiosity.

And if you were curious, you've cracked three ribs and given me something of a minor concussion. Certainly fair trade for my treatment, I grant you.

I'll trade you an antidote for information about that bird of yours.

[Audio]

[unkindnessof]

[MORE TENSE SILENCE. She's not happy with the loss of control and the injury count, not that she'll admit it to him.]

Play with fire. [she leaves the rest of the saying hanging.]

That must be your delirium talking; I don't own a bird and I don't trust you.

[Audio]

[is_fear_itself]

And Scarecrows should take more care, yes, yes, I know.

Hmmm... perhaps you don't remember, then. It was a fascinating creature--made out of that... what is it, dark matter? A giant black raven.

[Audio]

[unkindnessof]

... I'm surprised you were still conscious for that. And "fascinating" isn't really a word I hear for it very often.

[Audio]

[is_fear_itself]

Very funny.

You know my name, obviously, but not my reputation. I am a patron of fear and terror--and I hadn't realized, obviously, what I was dealing with.

[shifting sound, slight pained groan] I do now, however, rest assured.

[Audio]

[unkindnessof]

[non-committal 'hmn' noise]

Do you. I did mention ravens aren't to be confused with crows.

[Audio]

[is_fear_itself]

Ornithologically speaking, certainly not. But they remain birds of a feather...

You have remarkable powers. The question becomes... What are you using them for?

[Audio]

[unkindnessof]

I thought you were a Scarecrow.

Fighting crime, bringing justice... you know, typical hero stuff.

[Audio]

[is_fear_itself]

Semantics. Let's not argue those, shall we?

What a colossal waste, Lenore. One would think you'd make a fantastic... how should I put it... well, supervillain, I suppose. You'd certainly give half of Arkham a run for its money. Why don't you join forces with me? I know we've gotten off to a bad start, but I can see marvelous potential in you.

[Audio] 1/4

[unkindnessof]

Hmph.

... "Lenore"?

[Audio]

[unkindnessof]

-- supervillain.

[Audio]

[unkindnessof]

... [she's facepalming on the inside, Jon.]

Only half of Arkham? I think I'm insulted.

As generous as your offer is...