Doors

Kitane I need gripper things.

[Iris disappears from Anton's condo for about two full days. She leaves a note for Anton and Nell that simply says "Gone to hotel." Her room is just as messy as it has been during the time she's been spending in bed, but there are also clothes tossed in front of the closet from where she attempted to find something to wear out of the house that covered the bruises and bite marks that are still fading from the night in the dark at the hotel.

As after his last extended absence, Alfred's return to the Manor is subtle while also being glaringly obvious. Things just seem better in the mansion, now that they're being taken care of again. Dust disappears, floors are cleaned, laundry is done (even Damian's socks), food supplies reappear in the refrigerator and freezer. Things down in the cave are shifted into spaces that make more organizational sense, everything necessary close at hand. There are updated files from comic books and movies on the new villainous types in the city, typed neatly with additional notes made in a large, messy, feminine hand. The notes are clinical, no sense of personality to them, simply stating facts from the new media that's been added. The rest of the files have been accessed as well, in a reading capacity only. He never encounters anyone face to face, but the Manor seems, all told, less empty.]

[to Bruce W.]
I apologize for the long absence, sir. We are working on striking a balance of time that will better suit everyone.


[to Damian W.]
Your new addition to the family is quite charming. Does it have a name? And once you answer that, perhaps you can tell me why you felt it necessary to take needless risks with life and limb?


[to Stephanie B.]
Miss Stephanie,
I apologize for not welcoming you upon your arrival. While I fear I am not the Alfred you have come to know in your own Gotham, please consider me at your service nonetheless. I have prepared a room for you in the Manor if you should wish or need to stay here, though please do not feel it to be an obligation.
Sincere regards,
A. Pennyworth


[to Jason T.]
Master Jason,
While I realize that events in your past have led you away from the Waynes and the Manor, if there is any way I may be of assistance during your time in Gotham, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
Alfred Pennyworth