That is understandable. After three years I'm the director here at Haven but I can't prove my surgical degree either, and there's magical healers. We work with what we have and we're willing and able to do.
I'll be in all afternoon and the front desk can send you straight to my office when you arrive.
[ He is there after lunch. Freshly shaven, well groomed, in business casual and looking... honestly absolutely comfortable in his skin and the setting.
That submissive stripe is just incongruous, somehow, but well displayed given he's leaving his collar open.]
[ With the upcoming events in the city, Kyle has put in extra hours despite himself to try and make sure everything is ready in case things go bad. Every year it comes back, this Duplicity purge, and yet it doesn't last just a night and for that he wants to be ready.
Rising as Bruce approaches, wearing jeans and a button down with his white coat. He steps closer, offering his hand. ]
Bruce, it's a pleasure. And Kyle is fine. Titles feel kind of weird around here, for the reasons you spoke of. You said you were new. Just off the train kind of new?
If you have questions beyond the need for a job, just ask. You're not letting anything get ahead of you, are you? Already contracted and looking for a job.
[ And Kyle gets it. He walked into Haven that first week three years ago. ]
It's... disconcerting. Between the magic healing and the scanners from the future that can pinpoint illness and injury it makes my years of study feel behind. What year are you from? Just curious if the technology is about the same or not.
I really prefer being established and settled in as much as possible, here.
[ Facets of personality. He's not about to play an idiot while trying to get a job. Also that requires so much energy expenditure he just ... doesn't think he's going to. Also ask questions if they come up but right now - layout and employment. ]
I'm from 1994, though I'm sure between the magic and uneven technology here that's less...specifically telling useful than it might otherwise be. This building is bigger than I expected.
I know it doesn't work for everyone, but it's what I recommend. Some see it as accepting their fate here, and maybe it is. But maybe it's making sure we get some of it on our own terms as well.
[ At least that's how he's looked at it, given he has several homes and businesses as well. ]
I remember that year. We won't talk about where I was then. Come on. I'll show you around.
[ He smiles at that, proud of being director of Haven and showing it off. . ]
I don't know what the building was before me, but we've taken up a lot of the space. I'm the fourth director that I've known, each of us leaving it to someone else in case we vanish. We try and be full service, though most of what we see is damage from the things this place does to us.
[ He nods and steps back to give Kyle an easy path to get to his door, follows him out and falls into step beside him. ]
I understand the emotional drivers behind refusing to appear cooperative, but among other practicals I'm too fond of coffee to put any more hurdles between me and it than I need to.
[ There's a lot of truth in that. There's just more truth when applied very broadly, to 'resources' in general. If he were alone here he might make different decisions. With them - even and in some ways especially Clark - here, the math changes.
Moving on: ]
I have to assume the environment being this hostile reduces everyone's urge to be hostile to each other. How long have you been in charge here, and who do you think is likely to take your place if you go?
[ Kyle laughs at that, nodding because he can understand that. ]
I stand by the idea that we can balance our life here as well as finding a way to try and make things better for one another.
I think it really can be balanced, as well as working to find the answers.
[ That gets a nod. ]
For the most part, you see people helping one another and I think that is why. We have this place doing enough. Which I think is part of their goal. Like the contracts.
As for being in charge, it's been about six months? Give or take. Not long at all. As for when I leave?
[ He pauses, considering that but he looks away as he thinks about it. Leaving is still such a weird thought for Kyle. ]
Maybe Dr McCoy. I think he'd do a good job of it. I just don't know if he'd want it. I should talk with people and consider my options. In case. There's programs here I really would hate to see lost.
[ Balance? Never heard of it. He appreciates what he's getting from Kyle. It sounds relatively healthy, but also like the core of caring about this bullshit is there - in a sincere and, yes, balanced way. ]
I met McCoy on the train. I wasn't at my best, but he made a positive impression on [ The fuck is he calling Tim, here? What is the safest option? ] my adopted son.
[ Truth probably, because acting like they don't know each other seems a sure way to get into a situation neither of them want anything to do with. Still might happen but... better base to fight it from. ]
Which projects do you care the most about? Personally?
[ Much as he knows it might upset Alex and maybe Michael, Kyle has come to not only accept a life here but make one. Whatever he gets here, he'll do the best he can with it. His life in Roswell is waiting, if they're not clones, and until then he's making the best he can here. ]
He's good for that and he's a good man. Does his best here to help others.
[ Kyle falls quiet for a moment. He knew the name Bruce Wayne from one of his adopted children and he hadn't considered that until now and the mention of that son. ]
Your son's here as well? That's... horrible and awkward, I'm sorry. If he's talked with Bones, I might know him.
[ And oddly his first thought was if it was Dick, and then would that mean it was the one Michael knew.
He hardly has to consideration that question though. ]
Down this way there's a lounge, and it's a new addition. We put it in for those that need to take advantage of the vampire blood bank I started. There's many here who exist on a hemoglobin rich diet, and they can't or won't source if from living sources themselves. So we started a blood bank for them, separate from the one for those that need transfusions, though we don't have need for that often.
[ Bruce has two thoughts - entire trains of thoughts - more or less simultaneously.
The first is just confirmation of vampires being here and at least some portion of them preferring bagged blood, assorted things he knows about vampire legends and myths -
intellectual shit.
With a side of Kyle being invested in that one.
The other is that this man's presence here certainly overlapped Dick and Jason's stay. That's going to happen to him a lot. He hates it, thanks, but also: ]
It's not an ideal situation, but we should be able to manage. His name's Tim.
[ Kyle was preparing himself for any questions that might come about the blood bank, why its his pet project, the honesty he shares about it but knowing it can be difficult sometimes.
All of that dies though at that singular name. ]
Tim's here? He's back?
[ He's dealt with doppelgangers of others. Hell, he is one, but there isn't a thought this isn't the Tim he knew and cared for. Maybe there should have been. ]
[ This just got a lot less comfortable for Bruce. Not the likely sex stuff, but the nature of this place and... different emotional things. The outward signs of that are real damn minor - a very temporary spike in his pulse, muscle tension that's subtle but takes him away from 'languid'. Both are quickly controlled.
His eyebrows go up and stay there, though. ]
If he's been here before, he either doesn't remember it, it hasn't happened yet, or he's lying to me; he isn't successfully lying to me.
[ Probably.
God this place is going to push so many buttons. ]
[ Kyle blinks, not used to using his abilities to read others on a regular basis but he catches those quick changes and he offers a tight look. ]
I'm sorry. I'm sure others will mention it. Tim was here, as were several versions of others. I've known a few from Gotham in my time here. Your name was mentioned a time or two by friends. I just hadn't put them together until now.
[ That's all it is. Just someone he knew. People he's known. Definitely not more than that. ]
Tim helped me to get through some trauma before I came here by learning to defend myself.
[ Okay. That's useful information, actually. Elements are uncomfortable but not surprising and it's... manageable.
He's fine.
...he hates being confused. He also hates feeling exposed.]
I've read back through the network. [ IT remember? And that degree is real. It's also one of several, but those are irrelevant. ] There are other people here now who know us both.
The timelines and realities don't seem to line up for any of us - present or likely past. Tim is probably close, but he's years ahead of me, which leaves... more room than I'd like.
I never assumed you wouldn't, though I would warn to be careful how deep you dig. The city has a bad habit of broadcasting things not only unsettling but cruel and sadistic and it may contain a familiar face or two.
[ He thought of Dick being punished by Logan as Nick had been and knew that had been broadcast to the city. He suspects there might be more as well of others he knows. ]
I wouldn't be surprised. Some worlds seem to draw people here more than others.
Yeah, that's something I've dealt with but not on more than months. There was a time when there was six of us from my world but only three of us have been here for any amount of time.
[ He's seen it. He's not going to comment on it or acknowledge it or emotional response to it. ]
The splinter points are disorienting, as much because of people's reactions to who I am there or then as differences in them. I'm dead, I'm alive, I'm absolutely out of my mind-
[ Kyle winces at that. He's been lucky in that and, for the time being, he's alive and well in his world from what he has learned. ]
I hope you find that balance. I think that's the most important thing here.
You're throwing yourself in and a lot of people don't do that. I hope it helps you while you're here and I'm glad to have you on board. I'll have to arrange for you and Alex to meet. He's done some work for me here, but he teaches technology at the community center for those from times without devices or even electric lighting and such.
I'm looking forward to the work and structure of it.
[That is absolutely, completely, sincere.
Bruce is really (really) good at intuitive leaps. There's a pause after mention of Alex, though. A pause where he actually goes physically still for a half second, because he realizes that he can't make that one and is going to have to ask. He manages to at least look perplexed rather than frustrated. ]
I'd be happy to meet him, but I'm not sure I understand why I should. Shared interest, or do you need help at the Community Center?
That's something you and I share. I don't do well without something to keep me busy.
[ He smiles at that question, because he can understand why. ]
Shared interests and Alex would probably appreciate it. He knows more about Gotham than I ever did. [ This place has made it all real, and he has no plans to treat it any other way. No matter how that knowledge came in their world. ]
The Community Center was actually started by Tim. Then it was run for a while by one of the Graysons. The one from Gar's world. Now it's run by Laura, though it's owned by Logan I think. It does a lot of good work and people work to keep it going.
[ Bruce's expression doesn't so much shift as it closes. He wasn't being open before but was selectively showing a facet of himself that was real.
Mention of Gotham - and Dick and Tim - and the hair on the back of his neck stands up, the set of his jaw and shoulders subtly change, and a blank wall comes down behind his eyes.
Immediately. Like some switch flipped and warmth turned off and was replaced by... remote.
Not psychotic, though More like wary, uncomfortable and incredibly guarded. ]
I haven't had time to look deeply into the history of the Community Center, but I have no doubt that the work it is doing is useful and necessary. Alex's name is new. I'll make a point of meeting him.
[ Kyle can almost physically feel the change and it's distressing to say the least. It hadn't been his intention, though he knows in his desire to try and help with adjusting to this place he goes to far.
He stops where he is, hoping Bruce stops as well though he won't be surprised if he doesn't. He speaks either way though. ]
I hadn't meant to say the wrong thing. I'm talking about parts of my life that have been important to me here, both the center and those that run it and have run it. I hadn't meant to ... seem intrusive and I apologize.
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We most certainly do. Security, IT, records, custodial, and so on are all always hiring. Turn over is, sadly, a brisk business in this city.
When would work for you?
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I have a computer science degree. Degree itself being meaningless and unable to be verified, but probably the way I can be most useful.
As soon as you're available.
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We work with what we have and we're willing and able to do.
I'll be in all afternoon and the front desk can send you straight to my office when you arrive.
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I'll be there after lunch, and thank you.
[ He is there after lunch. Freshly shaven, well groomed, in business casual and looking... honestly absolutely comfortable in his skin and the setting.
That submissive stripe is just incongruous, somehow, but well displayed given he's leaving his collar open.]
Dr. Valenti? I'm Bruce. We spoke earlier.
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Rising as Bruce approaches, wearing jeans and a button down with his white coat. He steps closer, offering his hand. ]
Bruce, it's a pleasure. And Kyle is fine. Titles feel kind of weird around here, for the reasons you spoke of. You said you were new. Just off the train kind of new?
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[ Bruce meets the handshake with one that's... business like? Solid, warm, comes with a smile, doesn't linger too long. ]
I can't help but think that's more alarming with the medical staff than other professions.
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[ And Kyle gets it. He walked into Haven that first week three years ago. ]
It's... disconcerting. Between the magic healing and the scanners from the future that can pinpoint illness and injury it makes my years of study feel behind. What year are you from? Just curious if the technology is about the same or not.
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[ Facets of personality. He's not about to play an idiot while trying to get a job. Also that requires so much energy expenditure he just ... doesn't think he's going to. Also ask questions if they come up but right now - layout and employment. ]
I'm from 1994, though I'm sure between the magic and uneven technology here that's less...specifically telling useful than it might otherwise be. This building is bigger than I expected.
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[ At least that's how he's looked at it, given he has several homes and businesses as well. ]
I remember that year. We won't talk about where I was then. Come on. I'll show you around.
[ He smiles at that, proud of being director of Haven and showing it off. . ]
I don't know what the building was before me, but we've taken up a lot of the space. I'm the fourth director that I've known, each of us leaving it to someone else in case we vanish. We try and be full service, though most of what we see is damage from the things this place does to us.
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I understand the emotional drivers behind refusing to appear cooperative, but among other practicals I'm too fond of coffee to put any more hurdles between me and it than I need to.
[ There's a lot of truth in that. There's just more truth when applied very broadly, to 'resources' in general. If he were alone here he might make different decisions. With them - even and in some ways especially Clark - here, the math changes.
Moving on: ]
I have to assume the environment being this hostile reduces everyone's urge to be hostile to each other. How long have you been in charge here, and who do you think is likely to take your place if you go?
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I stand by the idea that we can balance our life here as well as finding a way to try and make things better for one another.
I think it really can be balanced, as well as working to find the answers.
[ That gets a nod. ]
For the most part, you see people helping one another and I think that is why. We have this place doing enough. Which I think is part of their goal. Like the contracts.
As for being in charge, it's been about six months? Give or take. Not long at all. As for when I leave?
[ He pauses, considering that but he looks away as he thinks about it. Leaving is still such a weird thought for Kyle. ]
Maybe Dr McCoy. I think he'd do a good job of it. I just don't know if he'd want it. I should talk with people and consider my options. In case. There's programs here I really would hate to see lost.
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I met McCoy on the train. I wasn't at my best, but he made a positive impression on [ The fuck is he calling Tim, here? What is the safest option? ] my adopted son.
[ Truth probably, because acting like they don't know each other seems a sure way to get into a situation neither of them want anything to do with. Still might happen but... better base to fight it from. ]
Which projects do you care the most about? Personally?
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He's good for that and he's a good man. Does his best here to help others.
[ Kyle falls quiet for a moment. He knew the name Bruce Wayne from one of his adopted children and he hadn't considered that until now and the mention of that son. ]
Your son's here as well? That's... horrible and awkward, I'm sorry. If he's talked with Bones, I might know him.
[ And oddly his first thought was if it was Dick, and then would that mean it was the one Michael knew.
He hardly has to consideration that question though. ]
Down this way there's a lounge, and it's a new addition. We put it in for those that need to take advantage of the vampire blood bank I started. There's many here who exist on a hemoglobin rich diet, and they can't or won't source if from living sources themselves. So we started a blood bank for them, separate from the one for those that need transfusions, though we don't have need for that often.
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The first is just confirmation of vampires being here and at least some portion of them preferring bagged blood, assorted things he knows about vampire legends and myths -
intellectual shit.
With a side of Kyle being invested in that one.
The other is that this man's presence here certainly overlapped Dick and Jason's stay. That's going to happen to him a lot. He hates it, thanks, but also: ]
It's not an ideal situation, but we should be able to manage. His name's Tim.
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All of that dies though at that singular name. ]
Tim's here? He's back?
[ He's dealt with doppelgangers of others. Hell, he is one, but there isn't a thought this isn't the Tim he knew and cared for. Maybe there should have been. ]
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His eyebrows go up and stay there, though. ]
If he's been here before, he either doesn't remember it, it hasn't happened yet, or he's lying to me; he isn't successfully lying to me.
[ Probably.
God this place is going to push so many buttons. ]
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I'm sorry. I'm sure others will mention it. Tim was here, as were several versions of others. I've known a few from Gotham in my time here. Your name was mentioned a time or two by friends. I just hadn't put them together until now.
[ That's all it is. Just someone he knew. People he's known. Definitely not more than that. ]
Tim helped me to get through some trauma before I came here by learning to defend myself.
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He's fine.
...he hates being confused. He also hates feeling exposed.]
I've read back through the network. [ IT remember? And that degree is real. It's also one of several, but those are irrelevant. ] There are other people here now who know us both.
The timelines and realities don't seem to line up for any of us - present or likely past. Tim is probably close, but he's years ahead of me, which leaves... more room than I'd like.
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[ He thought of Dick being punished by Logan as Nick had been and knew that had been broadcast to the city. He suspects there might be more as well of others he knows. ]
I wouldn't be surprised. Some worlds seem to draw people here more than others.
Yeah, that's something I've dealt with but not on more than months. There was a time when there was six of us from my world but only three of us have been here for any amount of time.
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The splinter points are disorienting, as much because of people's reactions to who I am there or then as differences in them. I'm dead, I'm alive, I'm absolutely out of my mind-
I'm sure I'll adjust, eventually.
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I hope you find that balance. I think that's the most important thing here.
You're throwing yourself in and a lot of people don't do that. I hope it helps you while you're here and I'm glad to have you on board. I'll have to arrange for you and Alex to meet. He's done some work for me here, but he teaches technology at the community center for those from times without devices or even electric lighting and such.
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[That is absolutely, completely, sincere.
Bruce is really (really) good at intuitive leaps. There's a pause after mention of Alex, though. A pause where he actually goes physically still for a half second, because he realizes that he can't make that one and is going to have to ask. He manages to at least look perplexed rather than frustrated. ]
I'd be happy to meet him, but I'm not sure I understand why I should. Shared interest, or do you need help at the Community Center?
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[ He smiles at that question, because he can understand why. ]
Shared interests and Alex would probably appreciate it. He knows more about Gotham than I ever did. [ This place has made it all real, and he has no plans to treat it any other way. No matter how that knowledge came in their world. ]
The Community Center was actually started by Tim. Then it was run for a while by one of the Graysons. The one from Gar's world. Now it's run by Laura, though it's owned by Logan I think. It does a lot of good work and people work to keep it going.
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Mention of Gotham - and Dick and Tim - and the hair on the back of his neck stands up, the set of his jaw and shoulders subtly change, and a blank wall comes down behind his eyes.
Immediately. Like some switch flipped and warmth turned off and was replaced by... remote.
Not psychotic, though More like wary, uncomfortable and incredibly guarded. ]
I haven't had time to look deeply into the history of the Community Center, but I have no doubt that the work it is doing is useful and necessary. Alex's name is new. I'll make a point of meeting him.
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He stops where he is, hoping Bruce stops as well though he won't be surprised if he doesn't. He speaks either way though. ]
I hadn't meant to say the wrong thing. I'm talking about parts of my life that have been important to me here, both the center and those that run it and have run it. I hadn't meant to ... seem intrusive and I apologize.
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