"Okay, I think I understand." Batman sighed, then let his hands fall dejectedly. "I thought I could make people see me as likable purely through my own nature."
"You are likable. It's just that since you live in this society, what society gives you will always interfere with people's judgment of your nature. The social skills you use are merely a way to counter that interference, and they can actually help you show your true self," Schiller advised.
"Do I really still have a chance to make things right? They didn't even invite me to their party." Batman choked up. No one knew why grape juice could get someone drunk, but he did look a little tipsy.
"Don't worry. They'll come looking for you soon enough."
"Really? Will they apologize to me?"
"More than that. They'll sincerely tell you they're sorry and ask you to rejoin the team."
Batman's mood brightened again. He asked hesitantly, "Really? Am I that important?"
By then, Schiller had risen to his feet and was heading upstairs. "Of course. You're the core member. The Justice League can't do without you."
Before entering his bedroom and closing the door, Schiller added silently, Mainly because they're about to run into Big Trouble that they won't be able to handle without you.
In Barbara's office, Superman paced with his arms folded. "I've never seen anyone so dark. Not even sunlight could illuminate his heart. I think he'll be our main enemy for some time to come."
"He's Batman..."
"No, he isn't." Superman shook his head. "Batman isn't like that. Batman may seem dark on the surface, but he's actually sensitive and vulnerable. But what we saw that day was practically a towering wall of darkness. Just looking at him made people despair."
"Then let me put it another