Re: The Second Wave - Fear Toxin (Batman vs. Scarecrow & Open - esp. to Tim and Steph)
The Lust Dust was the first sign that something was wrong, but one that made him pause, because it wasn't at all what he'd been expecting. Batman had gone around the side of the building where the ballroom was not, giving him no view inside, so the altered scene upon returning was more than a little startling.
He had already fitted his mask in place and was going through the window when things began to change again and the screaming started. Hearing breaking glass nearby, Batman spotted Batgirl, but let her work for the time being, glancing around both for Scarecrow and whomever else was responsible, and for Tim. He had loaded one of his pouches with extra masks, just in case.
His arrival hadn't gone unnoticed, and two thugs came at him. Batman smirked, throwing a simple left cross followed by a right hook that sent the man flying backward. The second man tried to grab him from behind and Batman jabbed back sharply with his elbow, aiming for his throat, then grabbed the man's arm and used the the thug's weight to throw him over his own shoulder.
More were coming, carrying bags that looked to be filled with purses and other items, probably belonging to the teens. As the rushed his direction, Batman grabbed the snack table and overturned it onto them, with one swing taking them out at the knees.