2' photos on Flickr

I'm still getting used to the prosthetics Mr Wayne gave me. While I can touch again, I've lost my sight once more. Blind in a world of monsters. What I can't see I can hear- crazed laughter, high pitched screams, it's horrible. I think I heard the flapping of wings and the low pitched screech of the Devil himself. I don't know what happened to Chuck, or to the other people. All I can do for them now is pray that they're all ok. But in the meantime I need somewhere to stay. Somewhere to hide and get my bearings. It's been years, but this street feels familiar, if I can just- Yes! If I'm right, there's a church nearby. Hopefully I can find others there. The mad dash through the streets is a long one. A sense of dread hangs over me. It must be God's work that saved me, and brought me to sanctuary. At last. The candles smell as sweet as I remembered. A fire rises, filling the room with warmth as I settle in a nearby pew. I'm not alone. There are people like me, even here. The priest delivers his sermon and I listen intently.

Priest- -I am pleased to see so many new faces among you all. Though this world is dark my children, I assure you, so long as you stay here, remain true to yourselves and believe in the Lord's work, you will be safe from His wrath. And safe from those animals. I think perhaps, it is time for a Hymn. Turn to page-

*And the service continued. Despite everything, I know that together- these people and I, will survive. An hour later, I make my way to the reverend. To talk. To confess*

Ten- Father, I just wanted to thank you, for continuing His work, even in a place such as Arkham

Priest- Think nothing of it my child. In this world of Sinners it is my sworn duty to protect those who may be threatened by the animals and non believers outside these doors

Ten- I'm just overjoyed to see a volunteer, someone who came here in spite of the risks to themselves.

Priest- A volunteer, yes. My followers and I had to see this place for ourselves. It is no place to live. Please, sit. What's your name son?

Ten- It... depends. I was born as Philip Reardon, but after my accident-

*I gesture to my goggles. I don't know what it is, but I feel comfortable sitting next to this man, more comfortable than I've been in a long time. His presence is soothing. Reassuring*

Ten- They call me Ten now. The Ten-Eyed Man

Priest- I see. I want you to know child, that your injuries are not something to be ashamed of. You should be proud, these scars show dedication! Loyalty! Are you not proud?

Ten- *sighs* If only. I damaged my eyes in war, that I can live with, it happens. My hands... I lost my hands because I was weak.

Priest- Philip Reardon you said? You were in Blackgate Prison, were you not?

Ten- I was, Father. You see, I wasn't blinded in Iraq, not completely. It was not until I was caught between the Batman and a couple of would-be robbers that I lost my sight completely... I blamed him for what happened, I'm ashamed to admit.

Priest- Batman.

*There's a sense of disapproval in his voice. Of resentment perhaps*

Priest- You know, criminals aren't the only people trapped here. Dozens of the City's homeless were trapped here also, all because housing is too difficult for the almighty United States government. Where was the Batman then?

*He sighs*

Priest- Now, your hands, the work of a Harry Simms no? He never did receive justice did he? Did you ever think about if you had-

*I shake my head*

Ten- No, I was wounded, near dead, I could not, and even if I *were* able to, an eye for an eye...

Priest- - makes the whole world blind. You have spirit Ten-Eyed one, and I have a mission. Will you help me in my crusade?

...

Ten- Apologies father, but I never asked. What's your name?

Priest- It's Joseph, child. Joseph Blackfire.

Fallow deer (2) by Yvonne Pay

10 60

Part of a herd of fallow deer on the Holkham Estate in Norfolk.

Too Long 2 by Kathy M