Call of the Aether.

A few wrinkles rippled across the fine muslin cloth covering
the table. Alfred reached out and evened out the cloth with his
palms. He stood back and quietly reveled in the soft morning light
that bathed the foyer. As the moment passed Alfred went back to his
duties.

Steps came down the massive stairway of the Manor. Bruce
Wayne dressed in a fine suit came down carrying an overcoat. He walked
to Alfred who was busy putting flowers in place. Bruce looked at the
Bouquets that lay on the muslin.

"I am ready, Alfred."

"Yes, Master Bruce."

He handed a bouquet to Bruce and carried one himself.

The door closing behind them, in long over coats they walked
towards the car. After closing Bruce's door, Alfred went around the car and
seated himself behind the wheel. Placing the bouquet to the side he
stole a glance at Bruce who sat looking out the window grimly. The car started and
they drove off.

Two gaunt gravestones sat in the mist surrounded by wilderness. The
stones thrust out of the mist, which flowed around at snails pace.
In the distance over the trees the high Gotham
Manor could be seen. A car drove up and footsteps approached in the
silence. Bruce stood over his parents graves.

He placed the flowers on his mother's grave while Alfred placed his on
Thomas'. Bruce brought his hands together with his fingers crossed,
arms hanging in silent prayer. Alfred stood in silence.

A moment passed. Then Bruce turned his head looking down.

"Alfred…Say something."

Alfred looking at Bruce, took a moment, then stepping forward he
cleared his throat and opened his pocket Bible.

"Dear Lord, (Job 22-23)

Thomas and Martha Wayne were taken away from us 23 years ago on
this very day.

And they answered the angel of the LORD that stood among the
myrtle trees, and said, We have walked to and fro through the earth,
and, behold, all the earth sitteth still, and is at rest.

Said Job,
When I think of it, I am dismayed, and horror takes hold on my flesh.
Why do the wicked survive, grow old, become mighty in power?

Said Eliphaz the Termanite
Come to terms with him to be at peace. In this shall good come to you.

May those that live understand that they led a good life and died good
people. May those that live not look upon their passing with horror
but with the knowledge that they passed away as we all shall."

Alfred then stepped back. Bruce quietly thanked him.