A Simple Act Of Mercy

[The Joker]

(The Following RP is Canon to Both Earth 4 and Earth 1)








Mercy Graves: Metropolis - March 2004.
Chez Felicie, an upscale restaurant patroned by the who's who of Metropolis business and political elites. It was the kind of place where the server knew your name, your kids' birthdays and your wife's favorite drink off by heart. Old school didn't begin to describe the restaurant whose eclectic menu had it classified as a "Fine European" fare, the best of Italy and France, though if you were willing to pay the chef would produce pretty much anything on demand. Mercedes "Mercy" Graves had snuck in, dressed as a bus kid, unassuming with sharp green eyes and naturally blonde hair; she had a slight build caused by too many days without food during her life time and the steady hand of someone who had long ago lost all fear of physical violence. She was moving through the dining room with the typical quick, quiet precision that someone employed in such a position at this establishment would require, moving without being seen, and slipping back into the kitchen. (c)

She was unassuming in her black dress pants, spotless white shirt and apron; her hair pulled into a tight, high bun and minimal make up on her young face. The rules were strict, men were not here to gawk at female staff members; they were here to do business and interact with others of their social status, not the staff. Her skill may seem pertinent only to the clearing of tables, but the young woman was also adept at clearing far more valuable items from the over stuffed patrons of the restaurant. Always careful to not get too greedy, and not pick the same pocket or in the same month too often, Mercy had managed to at least carve out for herself a meager living. Enough so that she didn't have to perform anything other than these not so petty thefts at least. She watched as a Rolls Royce Wraith pulled up, a sleek smoke grey exterior and the Spirit of Victory cresting the front end. One day, she thought to herself. (c)

One day she would drive a car like that. Her bottom lip rolled over her teeth and she bit down, wondering who would walk out of that car. She hadn't seen it before, but obviously someone very rich, and probably also very powerful, would emerge from the luxury automobile. A bald man, escorting an absolutely stunning woman in a somber, business sense dress with dark hair, emerged, flanked by two men who looked like they hadn't seen their necks since the Clinton Administration, entered the restaurant. The man carried a light coat and a brief case, the woman wore a fur stole around her shoulders. "Hey!" a waiter jabbed Mercy in the back harshly with an elbow. "Stop gawking and get back to work, Kid," the older gentleman hissed. Mercy snapped back to attention and nodded, shuffling off to the kitchen with her bucket of dishes.

Lex Luthor: It was a night like a million before in The great city of Metropolis. Hundreds of thousands could be seen at the streets, each followed their lives, heading to different destinations, either on foot or through their vehicles. Even in the night, Metropolis remained as alive as it would ever be, with all the countless lights of infinite colors coming from every building, every street, every angle making the city shine brightly. In this environment, Luthor drove his luxury vehicle towards his destination. The event that was happening that night was one that he had experienced dozens upon dozens of times in the past. He would arrive at a prestigious, high class restaurant, often accompanied by a beautiful model, and enjoy a pleasing dinner with other millionaires and billionaires. They would talk about their lives, each being as educated and pleasant as possible, they would appreciate the food, but all of them knew that that was not the intent of the encounter. (c)

More often than not, business agreements between men of Luthor's significance happened not at meeting offices in buildings, but fundraising parties and expensive restaurants. Not that it mattered to Lex in the slightest, when all of said and done the result would prove always the same. He parked his Rolls Royce Wraith right outside Chez Felicie's entrance, leaving his vehicle dressed in his finest dark formal attire, accompanied by a beautiful redhead lady in a dark dress and two other men dressed in suits. He walked towards the restaurant, holding his dark grey suitcase with his left hand. "Good evening, Mr.Luthor, we were expecting your arrival." A dark haired receptionist dressed in a dark wine colored suit, spoke in a polite tone. Luthor gave him a warm smile, and answered. "Good evening, Robert." Afterwards, Lex and his company went through the establishment's doors, and a server would guide them to their table.

Mercy Graves: The server led them to his table, and pulled the chair out for Lex's date. Mercy noticed the suitcase Luthor carried, her eyes narrowing. I wonder, she thought to herself. She knew who Lex was, everyone knew who Lex was. The briefcase, though, was bound to have something worth value, she thought to herself. Industrial espionage was something Mercy knew very little about, but she was sure she could find a buyer. There were three huge companies in America today, Gotham's Wayne Enterprise, Queen Industries in Star City and Lex Corp in Metropolis; perhaps one of the other two companies would be willing to buy the information? She paused as she cleared the table behind Luthor, listening to his banal conversation with the rather vacant woman he was eating with, trying not to roll her eyes. The woman was talking about fashion and celebutante bimbos who, likely, traveled in her social circles and, were they here, she'd be talking to as if they were best friends. (c)

What an idiot, she thought to herself, standing up and turning around but slamming directly into one of Luthor's body guards. Outside of work her first reaction would be a curse word and a shot to the nuts, but in this event, she simply made a shocked noise and dropped the bucket full of dishes. "Ohmigod," she muttered, putting on a fake blush and stammer. "I'm so sorry," she immediately hit the deck and spotted her bin, under the table, next to Luthor's briefcase. "Pardon me," she said, looking up at the body guard as she went under the table, scooping the briefcase into the bucket and throwing several plates over it to cover, then pulling it out, scooping up the silverware. "Terribly... terribly sorry," she said with a deep blush. She turned away and rushed back into the kitchen, moving with smooth steps so that the keys she lifted from the man's pocket didn't jingle too much.


Lex Luthor: Luthor and his beautiful companion took their seats at a large round table in the restaurant's corner, his bodyguards simply standing next to them with a straight, military-esque posture. "Sooooo, are we dining alone tonight?" The woman asked in a tone that was supposed to be teasing, but came of annoying and overly high pitched, her emerald green eyes staring at Luthor's bald face. It was clear that the model had no interest in Luthor's character, only accompanying him due to his large fortune. In any other occasion, Lex wouldn't even approach a woman like her, and if he was forced to, he would have answered her question with coldness and dry sarcasm. Instead, he gave her a gentle smile. "Not at all, Miss. The other guests will be arriving very soon." He said softly. Then, a waiter arrived at their table. "Good evening, Mr.. Luthor. Good evening, Miss. May I order your drinks tonight?" He asked. (c)

"I would enjoy a Recioto della Valpolicella red wine." Luthor answered, before focusing his gaze at the woman beside him. "And what about you?" The model's eyes widened, and she stuttered for a second. "Uh... Whatever you'd like, dear." She said in a tone saturated with sweetness. Lex smiled. "Very well. A Chenin Blanc for the lady." The waiter nodded, and after writing the order, left for the kitchens. A couple of minutes would pass, and Lex would try his best to pretend possessing the slightest interest at the woman's monologues about fashion when suddenly a blonde young lady would slam against one of Luthor's bodyguards, falling to the floor and dropping dozens of dishes. The model would scream and start a furious rant about how her heels were now filthy, however Lex would just remain silent, observing the woman with his green eyes. When she began to blush and apologize, Lex gave her a genuine smile. "It's completely fine, accidents happen sometimes." He said, not noticing as Mercy cleverly took his briefcase and the keys to his car.(c)

As she left, he remained looking at the blonde, a small part of his brain starting to feel suspicious about what had occurred. However, before he could really notice what had happened, he was interrupted by the returning waiter. "Your drink, Mr.Luthor" The man said politely, setting the wines at the table.

Mercy Graves: Mercy's false modesty and humble shyness didn't falter, until Lex spoke directly to her, her eyes going wider noticeably and her cheeks flushing a deeper, hotter red. "Uh," she nodded, shaking just a little as she hoped to Hell he wouldn't look into her bin. As the server returned and she noticed he still hadn't looked into her bin. She turned, realizing that she got away with it, trying to keep her steps even as she pushed into the kitchen. She ducked into a small alcove and bit her bottom lip, looking under the plate at the smooth, black leather of the case. "Alone the case has to be worth give hundred bucks," she muttered to herself, her thumb passing over the monogram. Her eyes darted around; it was the dinner rush and everyone was in the weeds so no one would notice her disappearing right now, but she'd have to be quick. She took the case and put her left arm down, letting the keys drop into her hand, chewing on her lip and tucking into the coat check. (c)

Mercy stripped off her uniform and pants, pulling on a customer's fur coat and beaver hat to cover her appearance. With her hair covered, and the coat on, Mercy was able to slip right out to the front valet, handing the man the key. The valet was skeptical, but since they had little contact with the back of house staff so she knew she wouldn't be recognized, it was more her face. She was twenty, but looked thirteen. "You old enough to drive, girlie?" the valet said as he escorted her to the driver's side. "If I'm not, I'm rich enough not to worry," she smiled and winked at him, letting the coat fall open just a little. The man's eyes went down her not so thirteen year old looking body, naked save for her bra and panties. "Right?" "R-r=right..." he stammered and stepped back, letting her climb in. He shut the door as Mercy put the brief case on the passenger's seat, her heart racing as fast as the motor as she shifted into first and released the clutch, pulling away from the curb. "I did it..." She breathed a sigh of relief, still not quite believing she had done it.

Lex Luthor: Lex silently sipped his glass of red wine as Mercy Graves made her way out of the restaurant, paying no mind to the endless angry rants the redhead model was saying. While she was in the middle of insulting the blonde's parents and complaining about the "absolutely horrendous" state of her hair, Lex interrupted her. "You shouldn't keep wasting your breath with that girl, dear. You're clearly above her." He said with a hint of sarcasm to his tone, softly smirking afterwards. The sarcasm was lost to the women, however. "A-Ah... S-Sorry, Mr.Luthor... I just, hehe, don't know what got into me." She said. Luthor simply smiled and sipped more of his wine. Some time had passed, and Luthor's company finally arrived. A fat blonde business man dressed in a white suit and a tall, brown haired old man dressed in a long dark coat.  Both were followed by their own bodyguards, and the fat blonde was joined in by a dark haired woman wearing revealing clothing, who seemed to be at least 12 years younger than him. "Mr.Luthor" The old man greeted him. "Good evening Lex." The blonde soon followed. (c)

Luthor himself smiled, standing up and shaking their hands. "Liefield. Miller. A pleasure having you gentlemen here. Please, join us." The two soon took their seats, both of them placing their briefcases under the table. "So, how has your week been, Mr.Miller?" Lex asked the blonde man in a polite tone. "Oh, things are great and all, but... Weren't you supposed to bring your case too, Lex?" He asked. At that very moment, Luthor's green eyes widened. "My case..." He whispered, before quickly jumping from his seat. At that moment, he also checked his pockets, only to find out that his keys were missing as well. "But..." Then, it all fit.  "... That conniving, back-stabbing low rent b..." He stopped himself before he could finish. "..." Then, without saying a word, he began running through the restaurant, heading towards the parking lot. "Get out of my way!" He screamed, pushing a young couple that had just entered the place, making them fall to the floor. (c)

When he finally arrived at his destination, panting heavily, his car was nowhere to be seen. He slowly silenced himself, remaining still for quite a while, processing his own thoughts as he regained his composure. When all was said and done, he didn't feel any hint of anger, quite the contrary. A genuine smile formed on his lips, and he chuckled softly at himself.

Mercy Graves: It was all she could to to keep from shaking she was so nervous, the adrenaline pumping through her veins and making her light headed. She actually did it. She stole from one of the most powerful men in the country. Now, the hard part: fencing the shit. If she sold his car, even for half it's value, she'd have enough money to move out of Metropolis, move away from her drunk mother and the endless parade of nameless men who found their way through her apartment. She could go... anywhere, really. Her head swam with the ideas where she might go, the things she could do. She could get her diploma, and then maybe even afford to go to college... She fumbled for her cell phone, the one thing she had grabbed from her uniform before ditching the clothing in the coat check, dialing her fence. "Hey, Micky, you still got that cousin who owns that chop shop? Yeah, great. I got something for him. No, no, I swear; this car, he'll wanna see," she said with a wry smirk, her green eyes narrowing. (c)

The eight cylinder motor purred as she shifted down to turn down Eleventh, heading towards Suicide Slums. A rough section of town, though Mercy had no way of knowing that Luthor even knew where this place was. "Yeah, I just gotta put on some pants... NO! That is not how... Micky, you're fucked," she rolled her eyes and laughed. "Okay, I'll meet you there." She hung up and swung the luxury car into her low rent neighborhood. Normally, she'd be worried about leaving a car like this in front of her building, but a fucking Rolls? No; no one would fuck with it thinking they would be taking a pimp or a mob boss's car and even in this neighborhood no one was that stupid. "Oh, this is gonna be gooood," she smirked and bound up her stairs.

[The Joker]

Part II

Lex Luthor: Metropolis - March 2004. Around 1:30 A.M.
Alexander Luthor stood still inside the small, dimly lit bedroom of the decaying house. It's walls and floor were made out of old, poorly preserved stones. Almost everyone of the house's windows had small cracks all over their extensions, and the few that didn't were completely shattered. And during a heavy storm, the ceiling wouldn't protect much against the falling water. That was the place she called home. He was dressed in a black and white tuxedo, a stern expression in his lips as his bright emerald eyes remained fixated on a blonde girl's facial features. As she laid sleeping in her bed, most of her body covered by the old sheets, she appeared as innocent as any other girl of her age, but Luthor had been reminded the night before of how deceiving looks could really be. Still, to think that he, one of the most brilliant minds of the 21th Century and the most powerful man of Metropolis, would ever be fooled by a street kid such her. (c)

It only went to show that Mercy was far from the ordinary resident of Suicide Slum. Lex then smirked, his eyes still fixated on her face. "Wake up, Mercy." Lex Luthor spoke in a strong, cold, imposing tone that was just loud enough to bring a reaction to the girl.

Mercy Graves: The Rolls was at the chop shop and she should see the profits from it soon as it was sold, the briefcase was under her mattress, filthy and stained as it was, sitting directly under the floor. She had tucked it under the foot of her mattress so it didn't alter how she was sleeping. It was cold, though not as bad as it had been earlier in the winter. Spring was coming and the super had turned off the heat already, so she kept her blankets piled high and wore an over sized sweater of unknown origin, emblazoned with the Metropolis U logo on the chest. Her hair was loose, framing and curled around her face which was pinkened slightly from the chill in the air. Indeed, she did look rather innocent, her eyes flicking under her lids, small mouth relaxed. The woman was sleeping soundly until he spoke. It was instant panic. (c)

That voice... Oh shit. Her green eyes were fuzzy for a moment but they locked on Luthor and she sat bolt up, throwing the blankets off as she scurried backwards. "Shit," she muttered, swallowing hard. There was no playing this one off, if he knew her name he knew what had happened and was looking for retribution. Her eyes darted to her pillow, there was a small stiletto under it, but he was very close to her, looking down on her with a very queer expression. As he remained silent, her chin dropped and her body, recovering from sleep, stiffening.

Lex Luthor: Luthor's gaze was locked in the girl's light green eyes, a small smile of condescending amusement forming in his lips as Mercy was startled by his presence. Quickly noticing how her gaze abruptly moved to her pillow, Lex spoke. "It would be unwise for you to try anything now, Mercy. Right now, there is a Hitman armed with a Sniper Rifle standing on top of a small building three blocks away from us, and thanks to the state of your window, he has his scope perfectly aimed at your nape. Any attempt of hurting me, and you'll die." His tone was slow, calm and collected, and throughout his speech, he looked down at the blonde girl with arrogance. When nothing but silenced followed his statement, false warmth took over his face as he smiled. "Excellent, you're a fast learner." He softly says. After a couple of seconds of silence, he continues. (c)

"I must say, you impressed me greatly yesterday's night, Mercedes Graves. You managed to sneak your way in and pass for a waitress at the prestiged Chez Felicie Restaurant. You moved towards my table, and thanks to an excellent display of acting, you stole both my briefcase and the keys to my car... That is not something any ordinary lady would prove capable of. Yet here you are, a 20 year old High School dropout that grew in Suicide Slum, that fooled a multibillionare genius."

Mercy Graves: Her hand, which had already begun to move towards the knife retracted as he spoke about the sniper, tugging the edge of the blanket up over her bare thighs. "What do you want? The car's already been picked apart and the suitcase is gone so if you're going to call the cops, just get over with it," she lied, though her voice was sufficiently harrowed to be convincing, or so she thought. It wasn't so much fear in her voice or eyes but rather discomfort; she didn't know what he intended to do and for that reason she was incredibly uncomfortable with him being in her space. Something told her he had no interest in calling the police, at least not yet, and that made her nervous. She knew how wealthy he was, more than enough to buy his way out of butchering a street rat such as herself, if anyone even reported her death or noticed her missing. Her tongue nervously flicked over her lips as her eyes cast towards the window for a split second before returning to look up at Luthor. (c)

"I guess you should look for better security," she said, a false bravado in her tone a vain attempt to cover the nervousness she felt. Her heart was beating in her chest and she could feel her blood pumping, her body trying to over come the fight or flight impulse inherit in every animal, as neither was really an option right now. She wanted to stand up and at least get rid of some of the physical imbalance between their heights, but she wasn't sure that was wise yet, so she remained, her body pushed as far to the edge of the mattress, pushed into the corner, with the remainder of the mattress separating them, but no room for Mercy to escape.

Lex Luthor: Lex Luthor chuckled upon hearing Mercy's sarcastic reply, her tone desperately trying to come across as relaxed and uninterested. However, the blonde girl's acting abilities had degraded greatly since she and Lex had first met. Thanks to her wide, fearful eyes, and the way she pushed her body to the corner, as if she was trying to escape, her discomfort and nervousness as clear as the light of day. Still, despite the comical display, part of Luthor not only showed interest in the young girl, but also admired her courage. Smiling, he gave Mercy his answer. "Honestly speaking, Ms.Graves, that wouldn't be a bad idea..." He said slowly as he moved towards her, his bright green eyes fixated in her soft emeralds. "In fact, that is part of the reason I've come here." He smiles. (c)

"As I've already said, your actions last night impressed me. They showed that you have a sharp, albeit poorly used intellect. And they showed that you have the skill and boldness worthy of accompanying said intellect. How surprised was I when after some quick hacking of the restaurant's security cameras, acquiring good pictures of your person, and sending an email to one of my contacts with said pictures linked, all I learned was that you are a girl who never finished High School, living with her mother in the poorest neighborhood of Metropolis."

Mercy Graves: He stepped forward and she tried to recoil, but was blocked up by the wall. Instead she drew the blanket further up her body, eyeing him. She didn't trust; not easily, not at all. And certainly not him. He had moved close enough she could smell him; the expensive cologne and soap, the detergent which clung to his clothing, even the freshness of his breath. All of it served to remind Mercy there was a distinct class difference. He had on an impressive tuxedo, easily worth more than every possession Mercy had ever owned, and she had on a second hand sweat shirt a one night stand forgot to take home. He got closer, just at the edge of the soiled mattress she was convinced he wouldn't touch, he was after all, rich, and Mercy kept his stare. When he mentioned her mother her eyes narrowed; the woman was a barely functioning drug addict who had spent most of Mercy's life in various stages of inhibriation but she was still her mother and Mercy still felt some misplaced loyalty towards the woman. (c)

Recently she had claimed she wanted to get clean and Mercy had decided that one more chance was easy enough to give. When he mentioned her, she couldn't help but feel a clenching in her chest. "What do you want?" she said again, trying to hide herself in the bravado of the request.


Lex Luthor: Lex Luthor stared blankly at Mercy as she showed deep anger at the mention of her drug addict of a mother. A typical action that the vast majority constantly showed. No matter how cruel and uncaring, how disgusting and depraved, how completely imbecile a father or a mother was, a child tends to always be at their side, always love them, always treat them with patience and devotion. Alexander found, no, knew that to be a depressive, limitating line of thought, that always restricted one's potential for greatness. Perhaps it was due to her mother that Mercedes Graves still found herself trapped in dirt and poverty? Lex sighed, and slowly adjusted her tie. "I am making a business proposition, Ms.Graves. You showed to me that you not only have existing talent, but also a great potential for growth and development. I want you to work for me." He explained in a cold, emotionless tone, gaze still fixated on Mercy's eyes. "Unless, Ms.Graves, that blindingly following my orders would be far too much humiliation for your great person, and you'd rather live in the misery your independence."

Mercy Graves: She looked at him, her eyes narrowing as he mentioned the requirement to follow blindly, her mouth turning down. Her features, which had been rather sweet and innocent looking only moments ago when she was sleeping, were now diamond hard and set, eyes looking up at him harshly. "You make it sound like those are my only options, and like signing my decisions over to you is a desirable outcome," she spoke, no longer wary of her words or tone any more. "Other than loyalty, what are the terms of the employment?" she said, her voice the hard tone of someone who had made the mistake of trusting someone unworthy in the past. Her right hand still itched to grab the knife, if for nothing other than something comforting to hold. "In details; I'm sure you realize I'm neither stupid enough nor naive enough to believe in Cinderella Fairy Tales, Mister Luthor," she spoke strongly, curling her bare left leg under her, still covered by the blanket.

Lex Luthor:: As Mercy Graves, accompanied by a look of disgust in her green eyes, spoke in a tone that was as harsh as it was arrogant, Luthor's expression remained still, motionless. Her youthful anger did not affect him in the slightest. She was a misguided street rat, that while full of potential, lacked both the humility and proper ambition to accomplish anything in her life, and he was Alexander Luthor, one of the most brilliant and influential men of the 21th Century. It was simply comical to think that her bravado would ever reach him. Lex smirked once more. "Mercy Graves. Do you even know who you speak to?" He questioned her in a severe, cold tone. "During the timespan of one decade, I have managed to build a fortune of billions of dollars from absolutely nothing, and I've created an economical empire that now controls the majority of this city, and it's power keeps on growing. In over an entire century, both the Wayne family and the Queen family weren't capable of reaching the heights I have reached." (c)

He paused for two seconds, almost as if he was savoring what he had just said. "Signing your decisions over to me, Mercy Graves, is the most desirable outcome you could ever ask for..." His emerald eyes were shining in the dark. "As for the working conditions, I can assure you won't be treated like a slave, nor will you ever be humiliated in any way, shape or form. And of course, you'll enjoy a salary that those who live alongside of you in Suicide Slum only dream of having." Then, he smirked once more. "But, looking now, I can see that you have little interest in my proposition..."

Mercy Graves: When he spoke, he held that confidence which was rare for this part of town. He spoke as a man not only used to being listened to, but who was used to having his opinion not just asked for, but offered up unquestioned. She had to admit, there was something in that which drew her in. Her eyes were still narrowed, and her expression was still stand offish, but she wasn't quite convinced one way or another. Mercy rose to her feet as he explained what he intended to do, though his eyes seemed to shine with some sort of darkness. The soiled comforter fell down around her feet and, even standing on the mattress she remained a few inches shorter than him, but still somehow managed to own her space. "You're right, I'm not," she said stepping forward, her eyes crossing over him to the window where he had threatened there was a sniper waiting for her should she decide to be too aggressive with him. "I spent a long time learning to make my own damned decisions, I doubt someone like you would pay someone like me the type of money required for me to sign over my freedom to you," (c)

She said, thinking about it for a moment. "What was in the brief case?" she asked, out right, having told him it was sold and long gone, she figured there was little to be lost by knowing its contents.

Lex Luthor: Luthor would remain completely calm as Mercy stood up and stared at his eyes with that gaze of juvenile hatred of hers. It was funny, how proud of herself she was, how she impulsively clinged to her notions of dignity and individuality . Even now, she kept on trying to generate some level of intimidation in herself, be it in her posture, her tone or her words, still failing to accept that she held no power over him. When she asked him that little question, his smile widened slowly, his gaze slowly turning to the foot of her cheap mattress. "Well, Mercy Graves, if that interests you so much, then perhaps I can show it to you?" Lex spoke in a tone that was as soft as it was agonizingly slow, as if he was savoring every syllable that came from his lips. Once he was done, his bright emeralds simply shifted their gaze back to Mercy. "You'd think a street rat who stole from a billionaire would know better than using such a poor hiding spot, and even then you'd expect her not to glance directly at it every couple of seconds."

Mercy Graves: She was speechless as he came closer to her, far too close to her. He was almost within arm's reach and suddenly she was painfully aware of the disparity between them and the fire she had previously went out, instead filled with cold sarcasm, accepting that there were something she just couldn't change, and that this rich man had found her and there was really nothing stopping him from doing just about anything he wanted to. She could fight him, but if he hadn't been lying about the sniper, and she had reason to believe he was in fact being truthful, well that wouldn't turn out well. "Congratulations, you outsmarted a 21 thief from the projects," she said, shrugging, her voice cold and rather harsh as she crossed her arms over her chest, leaning against the mold covered wall. "What'll your next amazing feat be? Perhaps take the crack from my mom's stash? Cause I think she beat you to it."

Lex Luthor: He greatly enjoyed as Mercy attempted to hide her disbelief with cold irony and a dismissive attitude. Paying no mind to the girl's her arrogant remarks, Lex would crouch slightly and take his briefcase from underneath her mattress. Afterwards, he would silently unlock it, aligning the numbers into the correct combination. A metallic click followed, and Luthor slowly opened the briefcase. "Here is the answer you were looking for." He softly comments, shifting the case's position with his hands so that it's content would be turned to Mercy. There were no endless quantities of banknotes inside, nor any gold bars or oversized diamonds for that matter. Instead, the briefcase was filled with lots of sheets of paperwork, some contracts to be signed, a few pens and pencils, a pen drive, two business cards... And a chocolate bar. After remaining silent for a few seconds, Luthor closed the briefcase once again. "Not quite what you were expecting, was it?" He smiled. "Word of advice, kid: Don't get high expectations on something simply because you saw it in a movie once."

Mercy Graves: She didn't quite let expression look hopefully, though she does find it hard to entirely hide her interest in what was in the brief case. She had taken a crack at it, but she was not very good with combinations yet, she was better with key locks. She would have gotten it, in time, but obviously she hadn't been too motivated to look. Graves figured she had time, wrongly it seemed. Her body shifted and her lip curled into a mocking sneer as she shook her head at him as he spoke dismissively to her. "Sure someone would have paid big bucks for it; you'd be surprised how many people hate you and want to bring you down," she said, arms still crossed defensively across her chest. Her legs were beginning to feel the chill of the air, prickling just a little and causing small bumps to surface; she wasn't self conscious of them, he hadn't turned the light on, and even if he had, there was a good chance they wouldn't come on anyways. They were squatting so the electrical bill was out of their hands.

Lex Luthor: "Many do, yes. I am hated by those who have fallen from their power and proved incapable of just lowering their heads, incapable of simply admitting that their defeat was the result of their inferiority... Not the type of men that I'd waste my time on." He said with a lack of interest as he adjusted his tie with his right hand. Then, smiling, he'd return to gaze at Mercy's green eyes. "Speaking of such, you would never believe in what can be done with a couple of phone calls and a GPS Tracker in your vehicle." He paused for a couple of seconds. "That little Chop Shop that was going to give you all the money that you ever needed? It doesn't exist anymore, and neither does my old car. Every chance you had of leaving Suicide Slum was worth absolutely nothing."

Mercy Graves: Her eyes widened just a little as he explained what he had done, or rather what he had ordered done. The frivolity with which he had destroyed something of such monetary value... Her eyes narrowed and tucked under her arms, against her chest, her hands clenched into fists. "There were people who lived there," she said, her voice betraying her only slightly - she had friends who had likely perished in whatever "accident" they would report to have happened. Arson was a popular past time in Suicide Slums this winter, though the truth was it was just people trying to stay warm. This year had been particularly harsh. There was a tense moment of silence before she dropped her arms, still leaning against the wall. "When you leave he's going to kill me, isn't he? That sniper of yours."

Lex Luthor: She finally reacted with true human emotion in herself. Her bad act of coolness and control fading as Mercy's eyes widened in shock. Her voice was softer, weaker than ever before and her facial expressions were a disorganized mixture of disbelief, sadness and anger. Her true self at last. And then came her question, delivered in that tone grown from hopelessness and frustration. He knew it's answer, yet he chose to let his gaze linger on her face for a little while. She was tired and irritated beyond belief, all of her achievements having revealed themselves as cruel lies. "... No." He finally said, in a severe tone. "The Hitman I've hired to assassinate you, in case your actions become too violent, is a complete fabrication. He never existed in the first place, something that you could have noticed if you dared look at your window hard enough." He finished in a light, casual manner, smiling and slipping his hands into his pockets. (c)

"But, this is not real:" He announces as he pulls off a pen and a money check. "Since our business proposition is still open, I figure you should receive half of your monthly salary." He spoke warmly, in a generous way. Appropriately, since after signing it, Luthor would deliver it to Mercy, presenting her with 15 Thousand dollars.

Mercy Graves: She was so angry at the ruse she could have flown through the short distance between them and grabbed him by his $500 silk tie and pulled until his face was the same deep shade of purple as the accessory, but she didn't. Her eyes merely narrowed, her young mouth pinching in anger as she stewed in her emotions. She stepped half way, getting off the soft, unbalancing nature of the mattress. "Are... are you serious?" she asked, reaching out for the check, looking from the number to him as the thin piece of paper slid from hand to hand. Fifteen thousand dollars may not seem a lot for the likes of Lex Luthor, but to Mercy Graves, who literally had nothing that was her's... it was the world. "One condition," she said, looking up at him. "And you can take it off whatever this is... I want my mom put in Heart Haven," she said, referring to the exclusive, high end, luxury reb hab facility which catered to the society types. Oh yes, still the dutiful daughter.

Lex Luthor: Lex Luthor remained silent as the Mercy took the 15 Thousand Dollar Check from his hand, his bright green eyes observing how in complete and utter disbelief the young girl felt due to his action, her hands almost shaking as she held the thin piece of paper. It was almost funny: To the man who had everything, that money check could hardly be called a penny, yet to young Ms.Graves, it was an opportunity like no other, it was power, it was a way to change her life completely. And yet, her mind still went to the degenerate mother who had long forsaken her. "Very well, young girl. I will see that Darcy finds herself in the facility as soon as possible." He answered in a cold, professional voice, a far cry from the warm tone he used as he gave Mercy the money check. Their eyes met. "Any other special conditions you would interested in mentioning?"

Mercy Graves: She looked up at him, drawing her bottom lip between her teeth. It was a nervous reaction, and in some people, even on Mercy, it might look adorable, though she was sure that Luthor wasn't the type to find trite things endearing. If what she had read about him was to be believed, Lex Luthor was a man of action, and a man not to be fucked with. Graves had the distinct feeling she mgiht be signing a contract with the devil, but at the same time, it was better than spending the rest of her days rotting away here. "I want an education," she said, the inspiration coming just as she spat the words out. "I'll do the work after hours, and pay for it out of my own salary, but I want to know that it will be supported," she continued, swallowing as she felt her cheeks rise in color. She was uneducated because she was poor, not because she was stupid, and she knew she was about to enter a world where having a degree would be a mark of importance, and while she couldn't very well attend a prestigious school, certainly not yet, the least she could do is take the GED test and enroll in night school, provided Luthor's plans for her didn't interfere.

Lex Luthor: A small, almost unnoticeable smile formed on Luthor's lips. In a way, he could tell that Mercy was different from the other kids in Suicide Slum. Where others would rob among themselves, and kill each other for a piece of bread, Mercy would show courage and ambition - as well as the tactical thinking to match it - and steal from a billionaire. Where others would cry and beg for mercy when they found out that a Sniper had his aim on the back of their heads, she would stand still and hide whatever emotions she could be feeling. Where others would simply take the 15 Thousand dollars and be forever grateful to him, that little girl would look at his eyes and demand more. "You're smart, you try thinking of the bigger picture. I like that in you..." He said, eyes still fixated on hers. "You will work for me at standard hours, your night education won't suffer any interference." He finished. "As for your new whereabouts, there is space in one of the floors of LexCorp's buildings. An apartment could be quickly arranged in a week or two. Till then, I can rent you a hotel room if you'd like."

Mercy Graves: Her heart was racing, but to look at her on the outside, no one would ever be able to tell. Perhaps, if they were hyper aware, they could see the throbbing vein at her throat, pulsating with far more strength than it would normally if nothing was the matter. She had bargained, and it had paid off, but she was getting the feeling that she was reaching the end of the rope as far as getting extras out of him. "If you think it would be prudent," she said with a very professional tone and nod. She was still standing wearing nothing but an over sized sweat shirt, but she stood as though she was wearing a power suit, and at no disadvantage. "It would probably be prudent; I cannot say that my current surroundings are amiable to me working for you. The details of which, you still haven't told me."

Lex Luthor: Lex chuckled as he saw the young blonde girl in the dirty sweat shirt attempt to talk in a way that was formal and eloquent. The overly professional tone, and the exaggerated amount of formal, elaborate words proved quite an amusing combination when they came from Mercy's voice. "Please, Ms.Graves. Not even I talk like that." He said, in a more casual tone, giving the impression that he was starting to feel comfortable around Mercy. However, that act didn't last very long. Luthor returned to his usual emotionless, calculating expression, his green eyes almost seemed to lose their shine. He would slid his right hand underneath his black suit's coat, and grab a card from one of it's inner pockets. Handing it to Mercy, he spoke. "I believe it is best we discuss that in some other location, wouldn't you agree? Go to sleep, use some of your money to get decent clothing, and come to the LexCorp building at 6:00 P.M next Tuesday. Show this card to the receptionist and she'll let you meet me at the top floor." He explaining, pausing his soft tone for a moment. "I'll give you this though, you won't be typing at a notebook for me, nor will you be bringing coffee to me, quite the contrary." He smiled. "In fact, I think you'll like it."

Mercy Graves: She watched him for a moment more, her cheeks flushing as he rebuked her. Nervous green eyes flitted away from his for a moment before he continued to talk. Unlike most, he refrained from talking down to her, or trying to falsely find a common ground through awkward appropriation. No, he seemed... comfortable. Even in the filth of her squatters apartment he seemed relatively at home. She would admit, she had noticed his ability to take possession of a room when she first saw him at the restaurant, but being in such close proximity to it was... Not quite enchanting, no, Mercy was far too old and jaded for fairy tales, but it was intriguing. She certainly hoped that would be one of the lessons she could learn while working for him. She reached out and took the card, taking a peek at it and nodded. "I will... I guess I will see you then," she said with another nod.

[The Joker]

Lex Luthor: Two Days Later - Around 5:45 PM
Alexander Luthor would be answering to business emails in his laptop, reading through the texts and typing the responses at fast paces, while also drinking a mug of strong dark coffee. While the day at work had been fairly predictable and extremely underwhelming, filled with small meeting where meaningless discussions that went nowhere took place - as well as phone calls involving men from other continents angrily screaming at his ear in foreign languages - He had gone through those patterns a thousand times before, and knew he would encounter then at least ten thousand times more, it was routine in the life of a Multibillionaire Corporate Lord. However, there was an event that Lex had been looking forward to in the last couple of days, and it's occurrence had been scheduled for that day. At 6:00 PM, a young blonde girl would enter LexCorp's building through it's front door and head to the top floor, dressed in elegant new business clothing, to have a conversation with Lex. (c)

A girl who had suddenly appeared in his life not too long a girl, but whose being already fascinated him like few could. As Lex finished replying to the e-mails, and the minutes passed, a feminine voice came through the room's sound systems, echoing throughout his large empty office. "Mr.Luthor, a... young woman named Mercy Graves is here to see you." It announced. "Good. Let her in." He replied to the secretary in a soft, formal tone. "Okay, sir." Alexander would then close his laptop and get up from his seat, even taking sometime to adjust his tie.

Mercy Graves: She had taken her time and purchased a well cut suit and had it tailored. She chose a skirt, it was more traditional and, even if Lex was not going to be the old school, conservative type, she would have to play the game with more than just him, she knew. She had purchased a dark charcoal suit and a crisp, white linen shirt to go with it, and had the skirt and jacket shaped to fit her better. It nipped in neatly at her waist and the skirt was tastefully just shy of her knees, ending just above at the narrowest point of her thigh. She wore a pair of Louboton shoes, knowing that the red sole might be a bit of a contest, but it was confidence inspiring for herself, and when the odds were weighed, she knew she needed the confidence more than she needed to know her foot wear would be acceptable. Her hair was freshly cut and styled, pulled back from her face in a very professional, low bun at the nape of her neck. (c)

She wore minimal make up, but what she wore was used to accent her natural assets, large eyes, but minimize the prominence of her mouth; no need to come off looking pouty -and- doe eyed. In short, the woman who stepped out of the elevator and was presented to Lex Luthor by his secretary looked very little like the waif whom he had left in Suicide Slums. "Mister Luthor," she stepped forward, not waiting for an invite or introduction from the secretary.

Lex Luthor: Lex stood nearby the large office's glass wall, silently staring into the horizon. From the top of Lexcorp Tower, he could see the whole of Metropolis. From it's economical center with it's crowded avenues and it's towering buildings to the residential suburbs with it's small humble houses. In the distance, the sun was setting a midst the skyscrapers, it's rays spreading across Metropolis, painting the city a strong, vibrant red tone. When his attention was finally broken by the familiar feminine voice, he turned around. Wearing a very dark blue business suit, a white formal shirt and black shoes, Luthor's emerald green eyes would lay their gaze at Mercy's figure. He would smile, satisfied with how she had successfully reinvented her image. No longer a nameless street rat of Suicide Slum, Mercy was now a young woman of class and elegance. "Ms.Graves. It is wonderful to see you again, specially in such vibrant appearance." (c)

Luthor said in a gentle tone, before momentarily shifting his attention to his secretary. "You may go now, I'd like to be alone with my guest." The woman obeyed, nodding and leaving Lex's office. "Please, have a seat." He said, his left hand pointing towards his long meeting desk. "We have much to discuss..."

Mercy Graves: She could feel the look of derision on the secretary, the other woman taking in the young woman who, even while she looked the part of a high powered business woman she was just another rat from the slums. In any office there was gossip, and she was sure Luthor had told at least someone his intentions to bring the would be thief onto his staff. She took a seat, her hands running down the back of her thighs, pulling the slim cut skirt to her legs and sitting, her back straight, looking just a little uncomfortable in the high office. "Thank you, Mister Luthor," she said, watching the other woman leave. Mercy's attention turned to Lex as he came to the side of the desk. "I suppose we do," she said with a small nod. "You never did tell me what exactly I would be doing," she said with an easy tone, trying to parse her insecurity and the apprehension she had. "What exactly am I going to have to do to earn this outlandish salary?"

Lex Luthor: Mercy Graves was a pretty competent actor, that was for sure. However, despite the way she could fake her facial expressions, making it appear that she was relaxed and at ease with the situation, and they she altered her tone of voice, sounding calm and in control, to Lex Luthor her insecurity and inexperienced remained crystal clear. His green eyes locked on her's, seeing past her courageous facade and analyzing the small, meek little girl beneath the formal tone, makeup and expensive clothing. Intertwining his fingers as a small smile barely formed in his lips, Lex began to speak. "Over the last few days, you've proven yourself a very intriguing lady, Ms.Graves. Despite your young age, abysmal upbringing, severe lack of education and poor financial state, you've done the nigh-impossible. No one had stolen from me before, let alone in such a bold manner." Pausing for a few seconds, his expression would turn more serious, focused. (c)

"I see talent in you, talent that could be extremely beneficial to the both of us. You would be able to assist Lexcorp's growth in ways that pacific agreements and negotiations can not... Of course, officially speaking, you'd be a simple assistant."

Mercy Graves: She listened as he listed off her potential points of failure, her eyes narrowing as he continued on, her mouth getting tighter. Her hands rested in her lap, her hands clenching into fists. When he came about to her talents, her ability to be bold, to rise above her "circumstances," as he called them, her expression softened slightly, but only slightly. "What kind of assistance will I be providing under the table?" she asked, her eyes narrowing, not sure she really wanted to be someone's lackey. Her gray green eyes watched him carefully, the small smile that was creeping up on his face was unnerving, but not entirely unpleasant.

Lex Luthor: As he heard Mercy's words, his small smile grew ever so slightly, Lex's bright, emerald green eyes seeming to almost sparkle as they remained perfectly fixated on the girl's delicate features. She was such an amusing girl, being born and growing as a pariah, yet having the pride of a queen. At the tamest criticism, she would narrow her eyes and clench her fists, and anger would slowly fill her whole self. She didn't saw herself as the street rat she was, quite the contrary. As far as she was concerned, Mercy Graves was powerful like no other, a woman that deserved nothing but the utmost praise and respect. "... Ever wanted to play God, Ms. Graves?" He started to speak in that slow, formal tone of his. "Be able to see what no one else can. To do all that you desire, and suffer no consequences. To truly be in charge of someone's life, controlling their every move. To be everything that stands between one's life and one's death..." He paused for a couple of seconds. "By accepting my offer, you will feel true power."

Mercy Graves: He spoke to her vanity. He must have done his home work, he knew just what buttons to press. The idea that she, born as low as she was, could have that power. Power she not only dearly wanted, but thought she deserved. She had -earned- in her own mind already. Well, it was an offer that she couldn't resist. She didn't want to seem too eager, though and held her tongue for a count of five, as if she was considering the offer more than considering what she would do with it. Much like anyone from her situation, there were those who were part of her old life who felt they were still owed by her, or in some circumstances they felt they "owned" her. "Alright," she said with a measured tone, her head bobbing in a soft nod.