The Files of Dr. Hugo Strange

“ Or does that outfit help bury your feelings, hiding your true self? Oh, you are a truly extraordinary specimen. I look forward to breaking you... ”

Information…

ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ╰┈─➤ Welcome! This rp blog follows the storyline of Dr. Hugo Strange, specifically an AU within the lickaverse ran by @lickalickalipz (Ms. Lips, she/her)

ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ╰┈─➤ These are considered his personal files where he records experiments and conversations both seen and unseen by the public. There will be interviews with patients, records of damage/outcomes, transcripts of interactions, etc.

ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ╰┈─➤ In his current timeline he has been working as a independent contractor alongside picking up different jobs as a psychiatrist and socialite. He has yet been hired at Arkham Asylum (waiting for a certain man to get in a lot of debt) and this is pre-bat signal where the myth of the caped crusader only roams around the streets of Gotham.

Joan

‘Late into the night’ was no foreign phrase to the man. Late into the night he’d labor, as often as he wouldn’t. Perhaps it was his own mental deficits that caused him such when times seemed this desperate. They were not, though— he’s had more desperate times and demanding work.

And upon this hour always reoccurred the same two phrases in which he hardly could ever decipher what compelled them. ‘Late into the night,’ ‘sky-high and glimmering darkness below.’

Well, he knew the sentiment of that second phrase beyond its prose.

It’s the song of Gotham, really. You could hear about any alteration with any genre to it. “Sky-high and glimmering darkness below, let me see it for what it’s worth. Young boy you gotta slow— slow’on down before she’s gone. When the City’s gone.” One of those old classics you could find in a music sheet booklet, maybe a few pages after Embraceable You and ‘Tis Autumn. The attraction of Gotham itself was that tune and its moneys-worth. Despite how harsh it is to live, it’s not like that deters tourism. Many years back, the man now in the city of shadows merely traded in everything to take his research to the states. It wasn’t anything of personal qualms, he’s sure he’d return to Germany when the time comes, but there’s always been this fascination surrounding this one particular city.

“Sky-high and glimmering darkness below, let me see it for what it’s worth. Young boy you gotta slow— slow’on down before she’s gone. When the City’s gone.”

His most recent client had been humming that song. Not sure which verse, but the tune repeats as most blues do. You could be sky-high or living in a concussed sleep. The lyrics themselves were simply nonsensical too. Not much of a plot to them, but it sang as if it had. Perhaps it was a song about the city, or a lost girl, or elderly advice. All and none fit the words perfectly. It wasn’t until much later into this train of thought that he realized he had hardly even wrote anything into his entry. He had wished to make an abstract entry regarding this… Dr. Crane, who had contacted him quite conveniently as usual. Suppose it’s his job to have things conveniently turn out as he’d wish. But then again, with how the glimmering darkness outside beckoned him out of his office… perhaps he shall leave the abstract for another night. Perhaps after their meeting.

“Seems you either have that of a creative’s subconscious— though debatable if the content could be considered good— or yet again the boy covers his footprint so maybe the cry can work a third times charm. Either way, I’d suggest perhaps a lack of screen usage around your beddy-bye time.”

The man muses for several moments— as if he hadn’t for the past few days since he had received it. The story is one he’s seen several times— the musing isn’t of surprise or confusion. It’s sardonic, in a way.

“ The cycle of avoidance, seems inevitable doesn’t it? I find it curious though why you send it anonymous, what you hide to send this without me ever knowing who you are and what this could mean to you. Your purpose or motives. How funny being anonymous is, quite similar to the avoidance of a father to the avoidance of a child. No one truly will know the mask we carry even if we are known, the places we go to in order to hear a singer and get a drink. But say the runner, who runs. They run like their father too, and eventually the whiners whining is the child who they were and the father they imagined. Drinkers drink, after all. ”

He pauses for another moment. The work was unfinished, and there was nothing else to add really. The analysis was over and yet that question gleamed as oddly as ever when he receives these asks. The prose was simple, the wordplay was nothing grand, and the meaning behind it was already there with no further need to explain.

|| -> Ent; 𝑀𝑢𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑠 𝑊𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑎𝑛 𝑂𝑙𝑑 𝐹𝑟𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑑, limited access

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[ Start Recording - Scene; Private Dining Hall, charity event. Untitled location, Gotham City. Dr. Hugo Strange, Warden Dr. Joshua Arkham, Dr. Jeremiah Arkham (heir of Amadeus), Adah Arkham (daughter of Jeremiah). Context; Dr. Joshua Arkham introduces his nephew Jeremiah Arkham while they discuss politics, projects, and the future of Arkham Asylum. ]

H.S: (humored) “—Yes, we’ve been introduced before.”

J.A: “Ah, my mind must’ve slipped me. But anyway, I want to make sure you two were well acquainted. I mean, you with all you’ve done for the asylum, you’ve been a wonderful asset for betterment and you know when the time comes—”

J.A: (Hesitant shuffling, feigning slight humor) “You speak as if this will be soon.”

J.A: (exasperated humor) “Well, hopefully not- but you know nothings guaranteed, and it's not like I'm going to be warden for the rest of my life- we're going to pray it's retirement that gets me before an inmate!”

[H.S and J.A chuckle amongst themselves, J.A eventually joining in to not be the odd one out. ]

J.A: “Really, though. You’ve been much of a help to us as ever. Dangerously reliable, eh?”

H.S: “I’m Flattered. Though, you mustn’t credit me too much. You have done a great deal of work yourself... Though, must I ask, with the upcoming elections, do you have any doubts with retirement?”

J.A: (Dismissive) “Plenty. But, then again, I am secure in my decisions.”

H.S: “Truly? I’m sure you must’ve heard of the campaigns being launched under each. How about Hamilton Hill? Gaining followers with the promise of removing Police Commissioner James Gordon and bringing in Peter Pauling.”

J.A: (He ponders, but ultimately is dismissive again) “It sounds damned idiotic, but I’m certain Pauling will be just as good.”

J.A: “Pauling was a supporter of Loeb’s campaign while he was commissioner, I’m certain you remember this Joshua. When they were defunding the asylum and taking those funds to Blackgate after they began to house Victor Fries.”

J.A: (He sours in recognition, now slightly irritated) “I’m certain. A good portion of Gotham praise Gordon beyond his performance’s worth, it’s more than probable Hill won’t be elected— Would you pass me that bottle?”

J.A: (increasingly heated) “Most of the candidates were either

supporters of Loeb or are taking very authoritarian measures to defund our programs for strict albeit failing attempts of policies in the police force-”

J.A: “Now, let's not default them as authoritarian, Jeremiah. Their policies for the police force has no correspondence to us- we have our own funds.”

J.A: “Well, I am sorry I'm pulling out bigger words but I simply can't see how the defunding of mental health services for the very issue they are facing will help them in the future if they truly aren't authoritarian- it merely seems like they are feeding into these criminal cycles.”

H.S: (pause) “If I may-”

J.A: “And another thing. There is absolutely a correspondence between us and the police force- we are an asylum for the Criminally Insane, unless your self-destroying programs fail to remind you... You may feel as if the defunding will be of no effect but you fail to remember- yet again- that most of our funds come from your pocket and most of Gotham City are not billionaires.”

[ Though interrupted, H.S rather takes note of all that is said. It is almost perfected as he would've explained. Though, of course like any heated conversation about politics with your uncle, the silence that took stage was uncomfortable and tedious. Too tedious for the things H.S had in mind. ]

J.A: “Hrm, well there was no need for all that.”

H.S: “He does make quite fair points, Dr. Arkham. Whether we admit it or not, the coming future may not be as certain as it has been these past few years. Especially with a new warden, there needs to be a firm ground to keep up with the programs in place.”

J.A: “And I’ll wager I will not be dead when the time comes. People will stand for what they support, and I’m sure the people of Gotham will see how vital of an institution we are.”

[ H.S looks to J.A first, as to gander a response. He has made his arguments and now J.A will not listen anymore past what he had said, this meaning: no more intriguingly witty counterpoints from the man ]

H.S: “...Times are increasingly changing, Dr. Arkham. We can’t stand on uncertain ideals such as the tenacity of Gotham’s voters. (Aside) Especially with an increased funding of the police force...”

J.A: “Changing times— changing times!— all you hear about these days. Not much really does change, there will always be a resurgence and demand for better ways. And we’ve gotten damn near close with my run as Warden.”

[ This confirms many things (see; regarding Arkham Asylum). ]

H.S: “Then, if I be so bold, do you have an idea for the Warden?”

J.A: “Pardon?”

H.S: “You’re pardoned. I simply want to know if you’ve decided to keep the next Warden in the family bloodline or not. We both know how it went when there were... ‘family friends’ running the asylum.”

J.A: “Ah. Yes. Well, I do believe it should remain within the Arkham's. In fact, it is why I wanted you to meet Jeremiah.”

[A moment of realization. It appears J.A had not known of this either, and... he seems to be less than savory about such ]

H.S: “...I see.”

J.A: “Now, what’s with the look? I’ve told you before—”

J.A: “You have not.”

J.A: “I’m certain I have, the last time we were in Europe—”

J.A: (seething) “Seven years ago? If you did, I would assume you were simply joking.”

J.A: “God, it’s like there’s nothing in the world you can be pleased with! We’ll talk about it some other time.”

J.A: “Another time— right then, it was good to speak to you again, Professor Strange. I believe it’s about time Adah and I venture back home.”

J.A: “Jer—”

H.S: “The pleasure is mine. Take care.”

[ It was against his nature, but nothing was more satisfying than the distress of J.A as J.A and Adah left. He noticed the limping gait Adah struggled with— not like a broken bone, it was built from a discomfort H.S didn’t have to time to investigate further into (See: Regarding Adah Arkham). The rest of the conversation would consist of J.A complaining about how insatiable J.A was, interesting case files he should investigate, and other pleasantries of a socialite. - End Recording ]

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Signed - Dr. H. E. Strange

Subject Potential Research Opportunity

╭───────────────╮

Dr. Strange,

I hope this message finds you well.

I have followed your work since it came to my attention, through the journals and case studies that you have made public. I find myself particularly invested in the ways in which you approach the deconstruction of the patient's psyche, and the behavioral conditioning and adaptation that can be found through such a deconstruction.

You seem the type that understands that the mind can be made into a playground of sorts, that can offer much in terms of research and study. There is a fair bit of progress that can be made, when pushing against the ideas and methodologies that make up the world of psychiatry.

My own work and personal research pertains to fear and phobia exploration, as well as the ways that humanity has been fine tuned to react to such stimuli.

And this then brings me to my correspondence with you. There is a possibility of a collaborative study on the ways in which fear influences cognition, when there is an intentional exploration and rearranging of the mind and whatever ailments plague it. Perhaps even a solution to many of the problems that the criminally insane and mentally unwell tend to fall into-- their violent natures and self destructive tendencies, for example.

Of course, it would be a matter that would require the utmost discretion in the earlier stages, as it involves the handling of patient records and delicate medical procedures. However, should this be of any interest to you, I would welcome a further discussion, at your earliest convenience.

Regards,

Dr. Jonathan Crane, PhD Behavioral Psychiatrist Arkham Asylum

1-800-XXX-XXXX @jcphd

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Hello! Sorry for the random ask, please feel free to ignore it or ask me to change things if it breaks your lore- I thought your blog was pretty, and your writing was interesting, so I thought I'd bother you a little ^^

From “Prof. Hugo Strange PhD” <[email protected]>

To Jonathan Crane

|| -> Ent; 𝑃𝑜𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑖𝑎𝑙 𝑅𝑒𝑠𝑒𝑎𝑟𝑐ℎ 𝑂𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑦, limited access

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Dr. Crane,

I find your proposal to be, if at the very least, intriguing. I am familiar with your work, truth be told.

Through my experience in the field and the projects I’ve partake in several roles from advisor to associate, there have been many studies and discussions alongside the subject in which you’ve proposed to be the core of your research. I’ve been adjacent with many great minds who came close to their breakthrough though cowered when the hint of progress became overbearing. It is not easy work, and it is certainly not for most.

But, that being said, I have faith in your work. As I’ve said, I’m familiar.

It is truly remarkable the things that land on your desk as soon as you take up an offer, though. I will be available either this or the following Friday and willing to discuss this further, preferably in person. There should be no trouble in navigating my office, I assure you.

I will look forward to our coming meeting.

Regards,

Dr. Hugo Strange, PhD Clinical Professor of Psychiatry Independent Contractor Psychopharmacologist

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Signed - Dr. H. E. Strange

END. Access files; locked.

@big-blue-of-tomorrow

// aww TY !!! I had to contemplate a loooottt about how I was gonna format this blog and like… his er aesthetics ig?? Hes a very hard man to make into a prwtty pretty little blog so I went with this sort of pretentiously vague, Dutch golden era memento mori Vanitas imagery because he felt like a good candidate to point at a painting on his wall and go “herm herm did u know this piece sold for 50 k dollars and even though I knew it’s real worth herm herm” rich man laugh etc

Unfortunately I’m also that pretentious and an art history nerd so if you’ll indulge me…

There is a very long silence, soon followed by abrupt laughter— genuine, which is quite uncommon for a man like Hugo. Deep and guttural, and more than that uninviting. The kind of laughter that makes something much less funny that originally intended if that was the intent.

[For a moment, the singing ceases, where Joker's usually irritating laughter replaces it for a few.. obnoxiously long seconds. He then clears his throat.]

Till you're BACK! Back beside meeeee... [Another thud, followed by a squelch and a strained squeal of pain.] Till IIII'm.. stranglin' you! [Once he strays from the lyrics, his voice sounds as if he is singing through his teeth, clenching them throughout the last few lyrics.] Till your final siiiiggh… here in my arms.

[He hums a bit of the rest, before a long silence follows; it is ever so slightly filled by distant, breathy pleas for Joker to consider some mercy.] ... Wish you were here, Strangie!

-🃏

Whatever the case, I think Gotham's getting crazier by the year. What's next? A supervillain intent on taking over the world via musical? Another vigilante pops up in Gotham calling himself a bird dressing in neon colors and a speedo? *You* start dressing up and claiming to be the batman?

“Humorous. I find it no surprise he would take interest in my… personal life, as I’m sure the notion that I could have one is more than hysterical. And for the record, the man he speaks of is neither a transgender individual nor have we had any sexual relations—…”

He is interrupted but an uncharacteristic cough, clearing his throat to the side. Eventually after a uncomfortable pause, he resumes.

“Pardon… It is purely out of his own amusement— the joke is simple. The man he refers to is a previous patient of mine who also happens to be a psychiatrist. The Joker finds him… in the form in which he would say it, effeminate. I would disagree, but in the vision of a madman it is simply Joker’s world to determine and we are all living in it. Furthermore, it seems he finds being explicitly crude to someone such as I is an attempt to gain a reaction. My running theory, you see, is that about everything he does is in turn to get some sort of reaction— and he feeds off of those who see his works as offensive or disgusting outwardly. It’s a dehumanizing and dangerously depersonalized approach to life… though that theory is still in progress. We will see as he continues to go on with this joke of his.”

“Though, again, I find it curious how he focuses so intensely on my relationship with Dr. Blu. The idea comes that it either was given the impression— which I highly doubt— or that it seems outrageously out of proportion. I find neither as well of a fit as an answer as I’d like. I digress, he wishes a reaction out of me. But unfortunately for him, I’ve heard much worse in my time.”

HAHAHAHAHAHA!!

Look, I'll even hold back throwing out the burner today! Cross my heart, hope to die, stick a cupcake in my eye! Just make sure to call me back, handsome — stop paying so much attention to that little FAKER and start paying attention to a REAL, actually interesting man; like me!

Just pick up the phone! Dial my number, baby!

[He gives an exaggerated smooch into the microphone] -🃏