Nightwing Revelations, Prologue

Prologue

    Panthra stepped out of the shower, letting herself drip on the gritty tile floor. She gently toweled off, patting her gills. Going to the dressing table, brushed her thick hair, and put the leave-in conditioner in it before blow drying it. Then, she took a flat-iron and straightened every strand. She wanted to look perfect. Today was the day. Her heat was over. She was finally free of that accursed room!

    Smiling to herself, she put in her earrings, then fastened her necklace, donning the bracelet and watch. Checking the time revealed she had plenty of it. She’d gotten up early to get ready. As for clothes, she’d gone through both her closets over the last two days, looking for just the right outfit. She was going to see him again.

    She was still a little angry with Dick for his invasion of her hunting excursion. But the letter he’d written her was a nice start to an apology. Panthra smiled as she thought of him. He’d regained her trust last Tuesday. She’d gone to his apartment. Stir-crazy and under the firm control of her hormonal impulses, only one thing on her mind. He’d not only not taken advantage of that, but he’d sent her home. Even though she was a little disappointed, Panthra was proud of his self-control and maturity.

    Dabbing a little perfume on her neck, temples, and wrists, she pulled her long bangs into a loose ponytail behind her head. Still naked, Panthra went to the kitchen and turned on some music, getting herself some breakfast. She looked out the window over the city as she ate. It was still early, and a weekend at that, so the thrum of life was just starting to return to the buildings and streets.

    Ah, Gotham.

    Checking her watch, Panthra went back to the bathroom and brushed her teeth. The thick, stiff bristles of the toothbrush were designed to stand up to even her razor-filled mouth. Once dressed, she spent some time putting on and perfecting her makeup, the bright colors highlighting her dark features.

    Calling downstairs, she had them pull the car around for her. Gathering her purse, Panthra took a deep breath. She looked at the portrait of her parents over the door. Her mother would be so disappointed. She’d wanted Panthra to stay in the shadows, always. Where it was safer. But her father would be pleased. He’d always hoped she’d one day reach for the stars, but from the sunlight, not the dark. He hated the idea of her being in hiding forever. 

    “Here goes nothing.”