Video Message To: Steven From: Edward When:Backdated, Monday, May 22nd, 2017, left at 1am
Eddie's face was pensive as the video started, and pressed a thumb to the bridge of his nose before he began speaking.
"Steven, I apologize for not being here when you return, but I've discovered something that needs immediate attention.
I've discovered a date and time. Several, actually, but I can only help with one of them. The date and time is ... today and the location I'm traveling to ... I cannot reveal. But I can leave you with two others: Metropolis and Gotham. I'm leaving it up to you to get things right there. I believe ... an attack on the Wayne's is about to happen, and as for Metropolis, well, we can both guess what's blue, fast and wears a red cape that would be under their gaze.
I'm leaving before you get here because if I don't, you'll try to talk me out of it, and I very much do not wish to get into an altercation with you." He took a breath and took a step back, revealing himself to be wearing one of his old suits. "I'm taking drastic steps, and if I'm arrested, well ... I'll just be another Gotham crackpot that couldn't make it on the right side of the law." He manages a smile, although it's a sad one.
"The girls will be alerted as to what is happening, they'll be here to help, please use them if you can. Query is keen to kick someone's ass for insulting Echo, and Echo feels very much the same." He paused and reached for something out of view.
"Steven, if I am arrested and detained, I do not want you to speak up for me, you need to stay ... free and clear of whatever lingers in the criminal side of my reputation. Right now, what the world needs is heroes, the kind that do not have ties to the criminal element ..." He pressed something to his face, and when his hands dropped, a purple face mask was revealed. "The Riddler."
"So I need you to fight every noble urge in your person, and I know from personal experience that will be no easy thing but ... please. Focus on the greater task at hand here. Get out in Gotham, get to Metropolis, fight this and if you come out victorious ... then you may worry about me."
Eddie picked up a cane and examined it, lips pressed together. "If ... The girls know my wishes upon my death, when it does occur, and they'll know what to do." Green eyes flicked to the camera again, and he offered a small smile.
"Easily lost, and easily gained, Without it, not much of a life remains. Can only be given, can't be bought, Its existence intangible, it's only a thought. Fickle and cunning, few have it long, But with it on your side, you shall remain strong."
With an elegant flick of his wrist, he donned a dark green bowler hat. "And I wish it to you, Steven."
The video ended abruptly, the screen going back to the desktop, where a single folder remained, labeled "Project Insight".