#Damian going ‘neat hand i want one!’ LOL NO

[batbabydamian]

Damian was only in Batman #137 for two pages but his appearance ranged from kick-ass to silly baby 😭

[cuephrase]

so idk about you, but i say all the time "this panel has been living in my mind rent free" and the other night i got the idea to make a compilation of all the panels that have been doing that this month and see what picture that paints, but then also to do that for the next few months and see which panels stick around/what changes.

anyways, nobody asked for this and it may only be interesting to me but when i realized i had more than 30 images and that i'd have to stitch them together if i wanted it all in one post i def noticed some themes and that was super neat!!

might reblog later with commentary but for now i'm just going to share the panels/compilations and a brief summary. all source issues are listed left to right ;)

batman: urban legends # 5, legends of the dark knight #100

robin 80th anniversary 100-page super spectacular #1, batman and robin (2011) #14

batman: gotham knights #26, batgirl (2000) #34

batman: urban legends #18, batman: gotham knights #2

detective comics #572, from the dc vault: death in the family: robin lives! #1, justice league (2011) #19

nightwing (1996) #106, batman: urban legends #10, young justice (1998) #7

robin (1993) #10, nightwing (1996) #69, nightwing (1996) #25, azrael: agent of the bat #56, robin (1993) #133, detective comics #723, nightwing (1996) #96, teen titans (2003) #24

batman #455 (twice), robin (1993) #102, red robin #7, robin (1993) #132, adventure comics (2009) #3

titans/young justice: graduation day #2, robin (1993) #46, knight terrors: robin #2, batman (2016) #147 (yes i meant to put it three times), the boy wonder #4, batman (2016) #130

some stats:

34 total panels (timmy hands only counted once), 65% (22) post crisis, 6% (2) n52, 29% (10) rebirth onward.

22 separate titles (might be off by one or two but i think that's right), with robin (1993) getting the most rep, 5 panels. nightwing (1996) came in second with 4 panels, and then, batman: urban legends in third with 3.

i've also only read/re-read i think 6 of these recently? obvs robin lives and boy wonder, and then robin #132-133, adventure comics #3, and batman #455.

at a glance observations- shocker, there is so much tim lmao. i think about jason more than i think i do, kind of? like obviously ik i'm thinking about him a lot but it feels like more all laid out lol. lot of focus on grief/loss, not at all surprising. i think that damn "i fell from the moon" panel is never going to leave, bc ik for a fact that bad boy has been squatting since november of last year lmao. lil sprinkle of timkon. damian feels underrepresented *squints*, but this is also strictly panels i'm thinking of and not just like character thoughts. no dick and damian panels, that is interesting to me, bc i do think about them. the dick & tim, dick & jason, jason & tim focus, in that order too, makes a lot of sense.

seeing all of these put together feels like i reached into the junk drawer of my brain and organized it, very wild lmao

[coyote-nebula]

20 Questions for Writers

Thanks for the tag, @cuephrase and @wildsofmarch!

Also, thank you @motleyfam for locating the lost question lol

1. how many works do you have on AO3?

29

2. what's your total AO3 word count?

182,782

3. what fandoms do you write for?

Just Batman now

4. what are your top 5 fics by kudos?

Spike (3,470 words) - the kudos leader by far. I gave Tim roofie trauma, invoked by being stealth drugged at home. Kind of a spite fic categorically, but I think I'd prefer awareness as an intention over spite 😂 this author's life has been a bit weird Tim in a Bottle (38,683 words) - Tim, trapped in an industrial freezer with Jason, is attacked by memories in the text equivalent of a bottle episode. I know it combines two tricky qualities-- extensive conversation in one room and flashbacks-- but it seems to work alright anyway lol Tap Out (8,002 words) - Jason and family attend a gallery event for Damian, and Jason reflects on trusting Bruce. Now that I think about it, this is quite a lot like both Spike and Tim in a Bottle 😂 Except Tim (2,772 words) - Tim gets lost in the woods with his abandonment issues for company. Featuring both Bambi and Lady and the Tramp references Harvest (30,129 words) - Bruce and Jason harvest some corn and engage in hallmark movie emotion-having. I like the punchability to huggability ratio Bruce has is this

5. do you respond to comments?

Yep! Sometimes, lol. I'd love to answer all of them, but I don't have the spoons. I still reread and kick my feet over them though

6. what is the fic you wrote with the angstiest ending?

Hmmm... Pretty much all my fics have some kind of comfort ending. I'm gonna go with a friend, though he may wander far, because of the guilt and injury it ends on.

7. what's the fic you wrote with the happiest ending?

Again, they all strive for a relatively happy ending... so I'll say sweetgum, which is pretty angst-free to begin with.

8. do you get hate on fics?

Every once in a while, but nothing memorable. Mostly they're some kind of out of nowhere complaint about deviation from canon, at which I tap the 'alternate universe' sign and delete

9. do you write smut? If so, what kind?

I don't. Not my thing!

10. do you write crossovers?

I haven't... if I did it would probably be pretty niche lol

11. have you ever had a fic stolen?

Not as far as I know

12. Have you ever had a fic translated?

Nope. There is a pretty cool fic inspired by TiaB written in Polish, though!

13. Have you ever co-written a fic before?

Not too long ago! Me and @batbirdies wrote Tip for a Successful Interview: Lie (Down) :)

14. What's your all-time favorite ship?

Platonic: whatever I'm currently writing, usually 😂Tim & Jason, right now Romantic: This isn't my thing as much, but I do get a lot of amusement out of an ace batcat ship concept

15. What's a WIP you want to finish but doubt you will?

I stubbornly hold out hope for the completion of all my WIPs. That said, probably the Jason & Tim horror one lol

16. What are your writing strengths?

Weaving in flashbacks has gotten good feedback. In general, I think I'm pretty good at being concise (at least, I find editing off words a lot of fun)

17. What are your writing weaknesses?

Being a little too concise or obscure, sometimes 😂 losing clarity. Overcomplicating things until I either have an unwieldy WIP on my hands or have sacrificed my motivation for solving all the mysteries before I write the fic

18. Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language in fic?

I've played with it a little. I think <using brackets> so the translation is in-text works best for me

19. First fandom you wrote for?

Star Trek: The Original Series, unless you count the thinly veiled MASH fan comic I messed around with

20. Favourite fic you've written?

make me a cradle (1,811 words) - wrote this in a semi-fugue state and I'm uncommonly satisfied with it-- Alfred's voice has a neat quality, it's sufficiently punchy, and it does exactly what I wanted it to do. It even manages a comforty ending! Ironically, it's my lowest ranking fic by kudos 😂 probably owing to the sensitive subject (attempted suicide) and being marked incomplete (with another sensitive subject, grief over Jason's death, promised). (Now that I think about it, I think I might have stealth released this also lol) Seriously considering marking it complete, though, since it stands well on its own. The mentioned follow up might happen someday, but the mood to write incredibly sad fic doesn't happen very often!

I will tag @batbirdies and whoever else would like to claim I tagged them 😂

[nyerusnova]

Honestly yeah, the Waynes are incomprehensibly rich and very importantly, that wealth is incredibly diversified. They have their hands in everything -- from medicine/pharmaceuticals/hospitals to bleeding-edge technology and alien tech research. This helps comic writers solve issues like magically manufacturing a cure overnight to a deadly virus (Contagion) and shit. But it also means the Waynes have basically unimpeded access to whatever they want. Again, useful as a deus ex machina in fantasy comic book stories but like, yeah. It's really hard to wrap your head around what that means, practically speaking.

And I wanted to mention about the kids real quick, starting with Tim: he was from a respectable high-society family, in that the Drakes were originally millionaires as well. They lost their fortune (thanks to Cataclysm), and so I'm sure there's people who still look at Tim as a "charity case" like all of Bruce's other children, but he did have the pedigree -- until the fall from grace. Of them all, he's probably snubbed the least because he checks off most of the requirements -- especially since he knows how to "manage" rich people well.

In comparison, Dick was a circus kid, and Jason was a street kid! So definitely caused some rich people to faint hearing that Bruce Wayne took them in and named them heirs. But "at least" they're like, white lol. (I know Romani Dick is a popular headcanon, though, but speaking strictly of canon he is not.) (Edit: Dick is canonically Romani as of Secret Origins #8 (2015)! Might have been mentioned elsewhere earlier, as well.) I don't actually know if Jason is even on paper "alive" in current canon, or if he's just a ghost on the record and prefers it that way because he can be under the radar. He certainly doesn't want any of the Wayne fortune, though it is available to him. (I think he'd rather take his money from other crime bosses lkgjgflkhjf.)

Then you have Cassandra, who is Asian and has a speech impairment, and like never attends any high-society gathering. The absolute shock and horror! This girl has access to the Wayne fortune?! Meanwhile, Damian's ties to the al Ghuls is probably kept rather under wraps (I'm not 100% sure about this) because of how dangerous it would be, honestly. Like I'm not certain most civilians -- rich or otherwise -- know of Ra's that well because if you do, then you're probably a pawn in his game which is not great. So Damian's probably making some rich white people nervous as fuck as well because "where the heck did he come from?!" And though Duke was not adopted in current continuity (there are some where he is maybe), he was fostered for a short while which probably freaked people out for sure lmao.

Also as other people have mentioned in the notes: Bruce plucking up these kids -- most of whom are older, and "un-adoptable" by society's standards -- and giving them access to this unimaginable wealth is so great. And before anyone says that he only does it because those kids want to join his crusade and fight crime too: I need to impress upon ya'll that Bruce Wayne would sink to his knees and weep with relief and then break out the champagne if any one of his kids said "nah, I think I'll go college actually." Those kids all bullied their way into a life of vigilantism, Bruce is just trying to keep them from getting themselves killed. (He's only failed once.)

And anyway, I think it's very neat that anyone who knows who the Waynes are in the superhero community can just like.... Ask for help with basically anything (non-magic related or whatever), and the Waynes would be happy to throw money at it until it goes away for you. They have enough, and they don't hesitate to use it to help out lmao.

I always wonder whether Batfam fans really get just how fucking rich the Waynes are. Like of course we shy away from thinking about the fact that we're talking Musk and Bezos money, and focus on how Bruce funds the freaking Watchtower and has what is functionally a high-tech military base and lab and the world's most expensive vehicles. But this is the one time you don't have to factor in the implications of wealth-hoarding, so there's nothing preventing y'all from understanding exactly how much money we're talking about here.

For instance, there doesn't seem to be any concept of how palatial Wayne Manor is, simply going by the outer facades of it that appear in the comics and movies. Or how decadent the lifestyles that accompany that kind of ancestral home. Alfred couldn't run that place on his own even if he had super powers, which is why even the movies occasionally show a rotating probably-temporary staff in the background. The house probably has like 3 hundred-foot pools. Their garden is a protected heritage park.

The Waynes are 10x richer than Crazy Rich Asians. They buy and wear the jewelry worth hundreds of millions that belonged to royalty. They own private islands. The art in the house alone is worth more than the GDP of a small country. They went to school with like every US President since Teddy Roosevelt and still think the Rockefellers are new money. They're personal friends with Beyonce and can get her to perform at private parties. They can rent out an entire three-star Michelin restaurant and fly out to one for every date. They have top-line penthouse apartments in every major city in the world. They can buy a luxury sportscar instead of hiring a vehicle anywhere they visit and then just toss the keys to the nearest person on their way out (Arab royalty is known for this appearently. There's been some very lucky parking valets in the UAE iirc).

Bruce is as rich as Ra's Al Ghul, regularly make social calls to heads of state and his family has a history of being king-makers. Every one of Bruce's children, from Dick to Jason to Cass, is poised to inherit one of the largest and most powerful fortunes in the world. That means every time Bruce adopts an orphan off god-knows-where, the entire global elite is thrown into consternation and horror. Even Tim is barely acceptable to these people because he doesn't have the pedigree. I don't follow the reboot comics so Idk if Duke is adopted, but it would be so fucking funny if he was because they'd react a lot like the British establishment did to Meghan Markle (except the family and WE would have Duke's back completely). As for Damian, the fact that he's not white would get him snubbed if everyone who's anyone didn't 100% know who Ra's Al Ghul is. And they're fucking terrified because, for maximum hilarity, they probably figure that Bruce doesn't.

I just find it incredibly fucking funny when I'm reading fics that the writers can only imagine Bruce and the kids's civilian privileges extend only to "big house", "a lot of cars" and "Gotham famous". Lol. Lmao even.

[duke-thomas-stan-blog]

Duke's relationship with the other bats

Bruce: Duke bullies the FUCK out of him. "boohoo Mr White Man" type bullying. duke plays the best pranks and Bruce is the target 98% of the time. on the other hand he's his father figure and mentor so he loves him.

Dick: Dick gives the emotional support Bruce is allergic to so he's basically everyone's dad. duke would probably get on the signal cycle and drive over to Blüdhaven just to crash at Dick's place because that house is a FUCKING NIGHTMARE

Jason: you know the bad boy older brother? yeah. that's Jason. *barges into Duke's room at 3am* "wake up loser." duke, not asleep but looking up from his computer: "what". Jason: "we're going to blow up a joker base" duke: "oh neat, lemme grab my suit". that's it that's their relationship. Jason has arson tendencies and duke is an enabler who absolutely wants to see a building go up in flames.

Cass: quiet kids with chaotic flames inside. they are absolutely the cause of a large majority of the pranks the played around the manor and they did not get in trouble for a SINGLE one. you do not wanna put them on the same team for paintball, they win every time and you never see them coming. sometimes duke cuddles Cass and reads to her and it's ✨✨soft✨✨

Tim: duke 🤝 tim - sleeping at like 5am. they're close enough in age and have similar enough interests that they're Chaotic Best Friends. Tim has brain melting ideas at 3 am while feeling heavy sleep deprivation and duke, as we said, is an enabler so Tim can say something like "we could beat riddler with unicorn powered grocery carts filled with glitter" and duke would go "let's do it"

Damian: teasing-older-sibling & literally-gonna-kill-you-younger-sibling. duke is like "lol short" and Damian's like *DEMONIC SCREECHING*. they get into lots of shenanigans tho. they'll go missing for a few hours and the other bats go *side eye* "where did they go?" and they find them sitting at an Arabian restaurant laughing happily after watching a play at a small theatre where they paid like four times the amount needed to give them more funding for future performances.

Steph: I made a post about this, go read it >;3

[snothing]

Request: Drabble in which Jake looks through some old stuff and finds a rather odd yet captivating item: a red tunic with a green scaly leotard, a black-yellow on its right side, a black domino mask, green gloves and finally green pixie boots. he decides to try the suit on

I want to apologize for how long this took! I’ve been so busy with school, and I made this way longer and convoluted than necessary. It’s definitely not a drabble anymore, and I added a lot of sibling banter, lol, I can’t resist. This was so much fun to make, I had so many ideas. Thank you so much for being patient, and I hope you enjoy! 

I decided to deviate from my universe, while keeping some old things. Mar’i and Jake are still twins, and Mar’i can turn invisible.

"Go away, Jaki! This is my hiding spot!" Mar'i whispered-hissed at her brother. She glared at him through a jungle of coats and umbrellas in the armoire, her mouth in a tight frown.

"Oh, come on, Mar'i!" Jake cried. With a flair for the dramatic, he threw his hands up in the air. Of course, his annoying sister would take his favorite, top-secret hiding spot!

"Shhh!" she snapped, finger to her lips. Pink eyes flashed brightly at him. "Would you be quiet? Do you want Dad to find us?"

He pursed his lips and looked down the hall. Pretty soon, his dad would be done counting and be searching for them. Still, a great wrong had been committed in the eyes of Jake. "You took my hiding spot! Get out!" he seethed, just a decibel lower.

"Nuh-uh, it's not your hiding spot!" Mar'i shot back. "You don't own it!"

Jake smirked cockily and pointed a finger past her. "Uh, yeah, Mar'i, I do." 

A deep, unamused frown settled on Mar'i's face as she noticed— in bright cerulean blue crayon— the word "Jake" hastily scribbled on the panel. "That means nothing! You don't own everything you put your name on."

He silently raged. "How am I not surprised a heathen like you-"

"-Heathen?! I watched you squirt an entire can of Easy Cheese in your mouth!"

"That was a long time ago. I’m a different man now."

"It was last week!"

"As I said, a long time ago," he retorted drolly. "Anyway, as I was saying— only heathens don't respect the sacred rules of hide-and-seek!"

"You're so ridiculous," she sighed, exhausted. "You act like I broke the law."

"Well, you might as well have. I'm hurt, Mar'i, really I am. I never thought you'd betray me like this. My own flesh and blood— my wombmate--"

"Ew, don't call me that!"

He clasped his hands together. "I think the only way to solve this and mend our broken relationship is for you to leave and find a new hiding spot."

Mar'i stared blankly at him. Jake was her favorite person in the entire universe, but there were times where she wanted to slap him. "I'm not leaving, Jaki."

"By the love of X'hal, you can turn invisible!" he argued.

"So? Dad's using heat-sensing goggles this time."

"Mar'i!"

"Hey, babe," their father's voice filtered in from downstairs. They stilled, eyes wide and locked on each other. 

"Hello, my love. Are you looking for something?" they heard their mother ask him. 

"Oh you know, just for two half-human, half-alien eight-year-olds? Have you seen them? They're like yay-high, black hair with orange skin? Got glowing green eyes?"

"Oh," Kory chuckled. "I think I know the two. Say, are they dangerous?"

"Very. The little rascals will eat all your cereal and blame it on an innocent larva."

"My, they sound like quite the dastardly duo," she mused. "I believe I saw them go upstairs. Please, proceed with caution."

Dick let out a laugh. "Don't worry, babe. I think I'm well-equipped to handle them; Batman raised me after all."

Mar'i snapped back her attention to Jake, panicked. "Go away, Jaki!" she nearly growled. 

"But-" he tried to argue, but her hand shot out and closed the armoire door, effectively ending their discussion. 

Frantic, Jake looked around for a new hiding spot. Under his bed? No, there was a monster. Behind the house plants? Nope, too obvious. In the air vent? Nah, he'd get stuck again. Finally, his eyes found the inconspicuous attic door. 

He was like 90% sure it was haunted. Uncle Jay showed him and Mar'i a horror movie once, and he learned that attics were prime real estate for ghosts and couldn't be trusted. 

But...

It would probably be a great hiding spot. His dad wouldn't expect it. 

The creaking of the stairs interrupted his thoughts and effectively ended his inner turmoil. He dashed to the attic door and braved the darkroom. 

"Oh wow," he said, looking around. The room was cramped, littered with boxes and other knickknacks. Moonlight filtered in through the port window. "Okay, ghosts, listen. I don't mean to trespass or anything. I just need a place to hide from my dad, alright? So no possessing me, okay? I'll only be here for a couple of minutes."

Slowly, he made his way through the clutter, hoping to find a nice nook to squeeze in. A thick layer of dust coated everything in the room, and it was not long before he started hacking. It was then that his left foot hit a meddlesome snag in the carpet, causing him to plummet down on a pile of boxes. 

He let out a rather undignified squeak when his knee slammed into the ground. A flurry of Tamaranean curse words left his mouth; thank heavens, his mom was not around to hear him. "Stupid ghosts!" Jake spat. The crash was loud. His dad knew where he was now. "And stupid Mar'i for making me hide in this stupid, haunted attic!"

He went to glare at the confounding boxes, but he halted when he saw something interesting. His ire vanished, his head cocked slightly. He pulled himself up from the ground and went to analyze the contents of the fallen box closer, his hand alit with a low-energy starbolt.

Inside the unsuspecting box was a brightly colored uniform. Jake's eyes widened the size of saucers. Could this be? There was no way. But sure enough, he found the iconic scaly leotard and black domino mask. Yep, this was his father's old Robin uniform. 

He stared at the red tunic with the utmost reverence; his thumb traced the R. Jake was so absorbed in the costume he failed to notice his sister hovering over him. 

"Whatcha got there, Jaki?" she asked curiously, face inches from his.

He let out a squeal and jumped several feet in the air. He snarled, eyes ablaze in a blue fury. "Mar'i! Don't do that!"

She snickered, an eyebrow raised. "It's not my fault you're not observant."

"I was in stealth mode," he said defensively. He crossed his arms. "What are you doing here? Shouldn't you be hiding in my hiding spot?"

She shrugged. "Dad found me pretty quick, so I decided to come to bother you."

Jake was surprised. "Wait, do you mean he didn't hear me fall?"

"Nah, I told him you were being a cheater and hiding outside. Thankfully, you decided to be a klutz after he left," she informed him. She frowned when she noticed the betrayed look on his face. "What? I thought you'd be happy I saved you!"

"I think it's funny you pick and choose when to be a loyal sister."

She smiled. "Gotta keep you on your toes, Jaki. Now, what's that?"

Jake followed her pointed look at the costume. He showed her excitedly. "I think it's Dad's old Robin costume!"

Green eyes rounded. "What? No way!"

"Yes, way!" he dazzled. "Look at the insignia!"

"Whoa," she breathed. She fingered the black-yellow cape gingerly. Her head snapped up. "Come on, put it on!"

"W-what?" He gave her a bemused look. 

"I know you want to," she said wryly. She held up the tunic and pushed it towards her brother. "I bet you'd look just like dad."

"Yeah, but..." he trailed off. Honestly, he did not need much convincing. Jake had seen pictures of his dad in his early crimefighting days, but a thought stopped him. "I don't know, Mar'i..."

"Why not?"

"Well, Damian's Robin."

"And?"

"And I don't want to-- I don't know. I guess I don't want to send the wrong message," Jake answered. He sighed somberly. "Besides, it's not like I could ever be Robin anyway. I'm weird."

"What the heck?" Mar'i spluttered. "You think you can't be Robin because you have powers?"

"Robins don't have powers, Mar'i," he said, dejected. "They don't fly or shoot starbolts."

She snorted. She scooted closer to her twin, looking at him intently. "And? Anyone with a brave heart can be Robin, and as I can see, you have one."

"But-"

"No buts, Jaki," she cut him off. Mar'i was not going to allow her brother to put himself down. "I like you just the way you are. I think shooting starbolts and flying is super neat!"

"You're biased," he chuckled. Mar'i's words instantly made him feel better, though. 

Her mouth blossomed into a silly grin. "Well, yeah, duh. I know if I'm awesome, you have to be. Now, put it on!"

"Okay, but turn around. I need privacy!"

"Yay!" she piped before spinning around. Her arms and legs tingled with excitement.  

"Okay, I think I'm ready now," he told her, a bit apprehensive.

Mar'i whipped around, nearly knocking Jake down in the process. She almost burst out in awe when she saw him there, proudly donning their father's uniform. "Wow, Jaki! It looks so good on you!"

He flushed. His eyes, now concealed by a domino mask, peeked down at his body. It had been a bit awkward in some places; Jake did not care for his legs being so exposed, but otherwise, it fit like a glove. "Really?" he asked, swooshing his cape back and forth.

Her head bobbed up and down. "You look just like Dad when he was young!"

"What do you mean by that, Mar'i? I'm still young!" 

Jake and Mar'i were startled by the voice. They spun around in the direction of the attic door and spotted their dad: the first-ever Boy Wonder and best pancake-maker-this-side-of-the-galaxy-- Dick Grayson. 

"Dad!" the siblings exclaimed in perfect unison. 

Dick chuckled. "And what are you two glowsticks doing in the attic? I thought we were playing hide and-"

He stopped mid-sentence when he noticed Jake. His eyes widened as they absorbed, his mouth agape.

Jake panicked, and shame surged through him. "I'm sorry, Dad!" he said hastily. "I-I was just hiding upstairs a-and I fell a-and I found your old costume!"

"Jake-"

"A-and I knew I shouldn't have, b-but Mar'i said I should-"

Jake paused when he felt his father's hand on his shoulders. He looked up and met his father's loving gaze. "Jake, calm down," Dick comforted. "It's okay."

Jake swallowed. "You're not mad?"

"No, of course not, son," he responded, genuine. 

"Doesn't he look cool, Dad?" Mar'i piped up, a goofy grin on her face. 

Dick smiled tenderly and moved his hand to caress Jake's face. He could not have predicted what seeing his son wear his old Robin uniform would do to him. His heart soared with love and pride. 

"Yes, Mar'i, he looks pretty cool," he agreed. 

Jake beamed and matched his sister's goofy grin. He thought his dad would be mad at him, but thankfully, he was the furthest from mad. 

"But don't think this means you can go out crimefighting," Dick added quickly.

"Aww, Dad!" Jake whined.

Dick wagged his finger at him. "Don't 'aww, Dad' me! You may have the look, but you're not old enough."

Jake pouted. "I'm not a baby anymore, Dad!"

"Aww, but you're still my baby.” He gave Jake a quick kiss to the temple. “Now, come on, you two. Mom made dinner, and I can’t wait to see the look on her face when she sees you."

"Did she burn the food again?" Mar'i grimaced. She loved her mother dearly, but she was not the most adept in the kitchen.

"Yeah, I don't know if I can eat burnt lasagna again, Dad."

"Now, now, glowsticks. Mom spent all day working on this meal!" Dick assured them. He escorted them out of the attic. "It's a dish from Tamaran. I'm sure it'll be wonderful."

Mar'i whispered to her brother, "I like when Mom cooks. We always get McDonald's afterward."

"Or food poisoning."

[oh-theatre]

Objection!: Chapter 21

Chapter title: A Winters Ball

A/n:  Merry Christmas Eve! Happy Hannukah! Happy Holidays to all! I hope this chapter is a nice something should you need it, it's a little longer so I hope that's ok! It's also bad but when are they not lol. Anyway, enjoy! Make sure to leave me some comments and Happy Holidays!

First | Previous | Next

words: 6082

summary: Patton throws a holiday party, with gifts for all!

pairings: Eventual logicality, eventual prinxiety, platonic demus, romantic remile

warnings: Alcohol, murder mention, drunk, implied abuse, gun, kissing, crying

Ao3 Link  

It started out so calm. Virgil arrived a little after seven looking happier than he had that entire week. He carried with him a small box, clutching to it as if it was his last hope. The kids pounced instantly, jumping forward as they drag Damian and Virgil further into the house only solidifying their stay.

“Ok” Patton laughs “Give Uncle Virge room to breathe '' He requests, the twins pout but let go moving away. Damian scurries back to his position, hiding safely with his father, clutching to the detective's legs. “Hey” Patton greets, a side hug is given.

“Papa! Can we play now?” Valerie asks, tugging loosely on her father's jeans. He chuckles shaking his head, he nods. Valerie races towards the living room where she has previously set toys and begins her game under the Christmas tree again. Remus sways in his spot, he watches Damian carefully.

“Uncle Virgil?” He speaks so softly, the adults almost miss his spoken words. “Would Dee like to play?” He wonders, Damian furrows his brows but pokes his head out ever so slightly “Dada let me buy a new game, it has snakes” he offers with a toothy grin. Virgil nods almost impressed by Remus’s calm manner, clearly quite taken to Damian. He turns to his son, lifting him carefully.

“Dee? Wanna go play with Remus?” He questions, Damian, shies away not wanting to meet his father's eyes “Damian” Virgil drags his name, he places his fingers on his son's lips, flubbing them gently. He giggles finally giving in.

“I'll play” He resigns, Virgil smiles letting him down. Remus, trying his hardest not to explode, bounces away with a frightened Damian. Yet Virgil sees something new in his son, a curious spark in his eyes.

“Happy birthday Virge '' Patton says finally once the kids are distracted. Virgil gives a coy smile following his friend into the kitchen. “Ok, we have got all your favorites.” Patton huffs triumphant, a proud aura around him. Virgil cheers silently, the sweet smell of each delectable treat making its way through his nose. “Alright what's with the smiles” Patton notes, Virgil's blush furthers

“Roman and I, may or may n-” Virgil stops as the door bursts open. The pair make their way to the main hall, Virgil quickly moves to his holster. Patton goes towards the now alert kids, their eyes fall on the figure that stumbles in. “Who are you!” Virgil demands, his gun pulled now. The kids squeal hiding behind Patton. Three pairs of hands clutch to him as he tries his hardest to breathe.

“I'm your worst nightmare” Is the simple, groan-inducing, response they receive. Soon enough the figure stands pointing his own weapon. Patton stifles a gasp, his hands placed protectively on the children.

“Pat, take the kids and go” He commands, Patton nods instantly picking up the three of them struggling as he races to the bedroom.

“I'm scared dada” Remus cries, not letting go of his father as they settle onto the bed. Patton nods through his own careful tears. Valerie and Damian follow Remus’s lead and grasp desperately to Patton. He cradles them, stroking their heads protectively hoping they can't hear the conversation arising outside. He takes a deep breath reaching for his phone, sending a quick text to Logan. He knows it's vague but he doesn't have space in his mind to worry about anything else right now.

“Is my Papi going to be ok?” Damian barely whispers, Patton takes staggered breaths before turning to Damian. “Uncle Pat?” He goes again

“Dee, I promise, he is going to be ok” Patton hopes, he knows Virgil never leaves the house without his gun and his bulletproof vest. Even then, the image of Virgil and that monster facing off rattles Patton.

“What do you want?” Virgil questions, hearing the door shut in the room.

“Not you, so I would get the hell out of my way” The figure speaks “You and your kids could get out of this safe. Just give me the lawyer” It requests, Virgil bites his lower lip. Fat chance, he re-asserts his gun. “Awe come on detective Tormine, you don't want this to escalate do you?” It mocks.

“No he doesn't” A new voice enters the ring, the absolute sigh of relief that emerges from Virgil cannot be described. “And neither do you, hands on your head, drop the weapon” Remy commands, the figure snarls but hesitantly obeys. Once Remy has control Logan and Roman appear, feared determination upon the judge's face. A quick look at the figure before Roman moves to Virgil.

“Are you ok?” He rushes, Virgil's eyes widen but he remains. Small nods increasing before he resets. “Virge?” Roman tries again, taking the detective's shoulders.

“Damian” Virgil utters, soon enough two small feet run towards him, Virgil turns scooping up his son immediately. “Oh my god,” He whispers, clutching tight wishing to never let him go. Roman rubs his back supportively, strokes through Damian's hair. A small family, safe.

“He was a very brave little boy” Patton compliments emerging with his twins in hand. Roman gasps, pulling the trio into a hug, Patton melts absolutely comfortable in his hold. “Thank you, for coming” He nods at them, Logan nods before giggling.

“You're ok!” Logan exclaims, he throws his arms around Patton, for the first time with Logan the lawyer flinches. Roman and Virgil freeze. “I was so worried” Logan pouts, Patton takes a sharp breath.

“A-are you...drunk?” He practically gags as the odor wafts from him. Logan cocks his head before grinning.

“I am l-lightly...tipsy” His teeth shine through the smile. Patton backs away, only securing his hold on the twins.

“I am lightly tips- tip..” Liam stops “What's the word again?”

“Patton?” Roman checks, Virgil gives him a grim nod. “Lo, why don't I...why don't we get home?” Roman suggests, Logan watches the lawyer, his naive smile draining away as he grounds himself. “Bud?” Roman tries again.

“Hey! Stop fidgeting” Remy fights against the intruder, the group turns and watches him. Virgil goes forward, handing his son to Roman, assisting Remy.

“A b c d E f g” the figure seethes, a disgustingly mischievous smile on his face “guess it’s time for a killing spree” Remy and Virgil share a look, a nervous swallow is shared.

“Yeah whatever, let's go” Remy directs, disappearing soon into his car. Roman helps Logan back into his vehicle, after much resistance and whiny behavior of course.

“Pat, I'm gonna head home ok?” Virgil checks, popping his head into the twin's room. Patton sits by Remus’s bed, stroking his hair delicately, he turns his eyes tired. Damian yawns, shuffling in his father's arm as he sleeps away. “You ok?”

“Mmhm” Patton hums “Night Virge...happy birthday” He celebrates weakly. Virgil gives half the effort for a smile before leaving, fearing what might come should the house fall empty and quiet.

~~~

“Merry Christmas Eve Lo!” Patton cheers advancing on Logan's position, the lawyer turns, his breath stolen as the bright figure walks towards him. A shining smile as he unwraps himself from his coat, revealing a neat yet festive outfit.

“Patton, I want to apologize once again, profusely” Logan begins, Patton hangs his coat cocking his head. “My behavior was unacceptable, it crossed a line and I am so eternally sorry for what happened” He laments, Patton's eyes soften as they take Logan's hand. He gives a quick squeeze.

“Logan, listen to me ok?” He asks, knowing its a big one. Logan nods eagerly to do anything he can. “It's ok, you are ok and...this shouldn't mean anything at all, but...I forgive you” He says, Logan can't help but fiddle with Patton's fingers. Clearly aching for this sense of normalcy.

“I'm not Liam” He asserts, needing to make that clear. Patton laughs softly, placing a cupped hand on Logan's cheek. Logan restrains every wants to buckle his knees and fall into the pool of love that fills Patton's eyes. His gentle touch caused a flutter they both dearly missed.

“I know, Lo...you are not” Patton smiles at even the thought “I was just scared, it happens. Virgil's done the same thing and I had the same reaction, it's really not your fault...just um…” He takes a breath, his lips pursed as he thinks. Logan exhales sharply, knowing exactly what he deems the occurrence as.

“Habit?” Logan hates how easily that clicks for Patton, it shouldn't be.

“Right” He agrees, he shakes himself out before a smile returns. “So listen, are you still coming over tonight?” Patton inquires, the pair begin their walk through the courtyard. The unspoken tradition needed no affirmation, every morning, a chilly walk with the promising reward of coffee.

“Tonight?” Logan panics only slightly, knowing his calendars are meticulous

“Yeah are you still-”

“-Coming over?” Patton wonders, struggling with an ornament. Logan tilts his head, his adorable eyes sparkle in confusion. “Christmas eve Lo, are you coming over?” Patton chuckles, the lawyer looks simply beautiful under the newly hung lights. A dim array of colors brighten the room.

“Oh! Um...yes. Absolutely, should you want me there” He replies, affirming his position. Patton stops, walking over to where the lawyer himself places stockings, each handcrafted.

“Of course I do” He smiles as his own blush overtakes, Logan was much better at hiding his light dust of infatuation. “Plus! Everyones going to be here” He adds, continuing the decoration of the tree. He hums quietly to the holiday music that plays in the background. It's funny almost, Patton can't remember the last time he got to do this with someone. Last year the twins spent Christmas with his sister due to an emergency, the three years before that they were much too little to help out and Patton was on his own.

“My star!” As if on cue, Valerie races by Patton's legs hiding quickly behind Logan, holding a shining ornament. “Nyeh!” She sticks out her tongue, Remus emerges pouting as he crosses his arms. “Lo! Up!” Valerie begs, fear yet determination crosses her eyes. Logan obliges lifting the young girl in protection.

“I wanna do the star!” Remus argues, he stomps his feet on the ground. Patton swoons at the sight of Logan and Valerie, engaging in a small game of their own. He picks up his son, trilling his lips, Remus lips against his own wishes. “No fair!” He cries

“You can do the star together” He compromises, they share a quick furled glance before agreeing. “Yay” Patton celebrates weakly, Logan takes this as his time. He moves forward, the pair stand side by side, children in hand. “Ready kiddos?” Patton questions, they nod. The lawyers move at the same time, lifting them, they take the star with their small fists. Carefully they place it atop the tree, giggling in excitement as Patton uses his foot to turn on the lights.

“Well done you two” Logan compliments, they set the twins down watching as they bounce around before retreating to their room. No doubt to continue their shrieks and bouts of fun. “That was...extraordinary” Logan realizes, Patton turns to him, a coy smile. “I...I don't know...why- Thank you, for allowing me to be a part of that '' Logan finishes, the memory burned deep into him.

“Hey, that was my first time seeing them do the star” Patton nudges, Logan adjusts his glasses, a soft ‘ah’ released. “Barb and I used to do it, now them” Patton smiles, kicking the ground below. Logan takes his hands, squeezing them. “Thank you for your help” Logan stifles a delicate chuckle, Patton's arms make there around his neck, relaxing as Logan secures Patton's waist. “Mistletoe” He reminds, his eyes flickering up

“What a shame” Logan teases, leaning in for a kiss. Their lips melting together, safe as the lights dance around them. Low yet ecstatic music playing, they trap themselves in the warmth of their...Patton's home. Should it start snowing right there, with fireworks going on Patton would see it fit. Fit for a perfect evening

“Right! Yes...I will be there” Logan shakes the distant memory away, unaware Patton's mind had wandered there as well.

“Yay! Oh, I'm so excited” Patton expresses, retrieving his phone as it buzzes. “Patton Hart” He listens, Logan stands idle observing his surroundings. He enjoys the simple pleasure, feeling a more relaxed Sherlock Holmes of his time. Watching jurors go by, frantic lawyers, guilty men dragged away. Everything is a routine, part of a well oiled yet destructive machine. “Em! That's amazing!” Logan blinks, returning his focus to Patton. The lawyer takes Logan's arm, the biggest grin upon his face. “We will be there” He nods some “Ok, bye, I love you too!” He hands up, practically vibrating gazing back to Logan

“Is everything...alright?” Logan fears the response

“Better than ok” Patton swoons “Oh! It's a Christmas miracle” The lawyer bounces, Logan sighs, keeping his temper.

“Patton!” He pushes

“Remy and Emile!” He delights “They're getting a son today”

~~~

“You're kidding!” James laughs walking alongside Roman, the judge shakes his head containing his own laughter.

“Nope, I swear” He continues “On multiple occasions, Joan has fallen asleep during a case, they just have” Roman affirms, James stops them placing a hand on Roman's shoulder. The judge freezes up, a shocking smile, a little flutter as a spark is transferred between them.

“That's amazing, my bailiff was never that interesting” James remembers, Roman nods listening to his delicate voice, he's sure the stories are interesting but the way James speaks just makes him want to fall asleep.

“Oh...you must be James'' Virgil approaches, extending a friendly hand towards the judge. Roman gives him a quick smile of greetings, trying to ignore the awkwardness his stomach plunges into him. They are just friends...friends. “Detective Virgil Tormine” He introduces, James returns the gesture.

“I've heard about you...Jame McCoy” He smiles, Roman watches the two, light ease. “Whatcha...uh, whatcha doing here detective?” James wonders, it seems stiff but alas the man is shy himself.

“I practically work here” Virgil jokes “I'm always here or the precinct”

“Papi! RoRo!” Virgil grows a giant smile turning, enveloping his child quickly. Damian hugs his dad, still having his arms around his neck as he looks to James. “Hello” He waves

“Heya” James greets, Roman doesn't mind them before allowing Virgil to hand him, Damian.``Is he uh...your son?” James inquires to Roman, the judge playing with Damian's hand chuckles.

“Oh! No...uh Dee…” He spins Damian “This is James McCoy, he's a judge, like me” Roman introduces them, James shakes the polite boy's hand, receiving a giggle. Virgil's is not sure why he feels the sudden urge to jerk his son away, he's never ever not trusted, Roman. And yet here he stood, on the outside watching his son.

“Is he your boyfriend RoRo?” Damian pokes, playing around with Roman's face. Virgil coughs, he takes Damian back. “No! RoRo!” Damian cries, making grabby hands towards the judge. Roman stifles a confused glance before waving a small goodbye.

“Sorry, uh...got to drop him off” Virgil laughs shakily, Roman nods. “Say bye Dee”

“Bye-bye Ro!” Damian grins, a gleeful giggle escapes. “Bye-bye Ro’s boyfriend!” Damian laughs into his father's neck, Virgil shakes his head a small smirk.

“Bye niño” Roman turns on his heel, much calmer. “Gosh I love that kid” Roman flatters, James chuckles. “Thank you for this uh…” He searches for a word to describe it.

“Our date?” James proposes, Roman nods slowly trying hard to squeeze back a smile. James takes Romans hand, squeezing it gently. “I enjoyed it, merry Christmas Roman” James lets go, lingering for a moment before disappearing leaving Roman with simple remnants.

“Merry...Christmas?” Roman finds himself confused, not sure how things could escalate and reach this moment so fast. Not that he has any time to process his thoughts as Patton taps him excitedly. “Hmm?” Receiving a simple bob in return.

~~~

“This is our son, Thomas Sanders” Emile whispers, cradling a small child as he displays him carefully around the room. Patton awes, not meaning to grasp to Logan, the excitement just builds.

“Thomas Picani-Nyx Sanders” Remy recites, his mind trying to make sure that it's all there. The group laughs, each making their own introduction to the baby. “Thomas these are some weird people who are gonna be around your entire life” Remy jokes, Patton sniffles laughing through his tears. Thomas reaches out wrapping what small fist he has around Patton's finger.

“That's Patton” Emile barely makes it through, not sure whether he's going to wake up in a moment. “He's your uncle” Emile informs, Thomas giggles through his motions, smiling widely in Patton's hold. Remy bounces on the bed, keeping a careful eye on his son. Virgil stands idle, not sure how to express how his heart feels at the moment.

“Thomas, this is Virgil…” Remy smiles, a coy one as he looks to his partner in solving crime. “He's your godfather” They announce, Roman and Patton, share small gasps, tapping excitedly on their friend. Virgil staggers his breath, pointing to himself. “If he figures out how to accept” Remy teases

“Hi, Thomas...I’m your...godfather” Virgile simply states, Emile, places Thomas into his arms carefully. Thomas feels a sense of comfort, as the warmth of Virgil wraps him.

“You want me to be his godfather?” Patton questions, Virgil nods. “Damian, hi” He introduces himself, kissing the baby's forehead softly. Virgil yawns leaning his head on Patton's shoulder, watching his son giggle at the lawyer's antics.

“I still can't believe you made me Remus’s godfather, and Ro is Vals” Virgil sighs, Patton chuckles. “I mean...what about Logan?” Patton hums lightly to Damian.

“He's...he's more than that...hopefully���  Patton continues humming as Virgil simply soaks in his delight.

“My turn!” Roman shouts in a whisper, Emile chuckles but transfers his child over to Roman now. “Oh, you're absolutely perfect” Roman marvels, the soft features alight with imagination as they fall into Roman's arms. He plays with his little feet, small mocks of gasps as they play.

“Please don't break my son” Remy only slightly jokes, Logan watches from behind Patton, his eyes following the child. “Hey! Four-eyes! Wanna meet my awesome son?” Remy throws a tissue at Logan.

“Yes, I would like to...however please don't throw things at me” Logan looks to Patton who helps him secure Thomas in his arms. And somehow, once again they fall into their own trance. And how selfish in the moment but Patton wishes he could have shared this moment with his twins with Logan. Not alone, struggling with no one to talk to. “Like this?” Logan checks softly, Patton smiles

“Yeah, you're doing great” Patton assures. Thomas’s smile turns to confusion, a bright curiosity lights them, as he watches Logan. “He likes you” Patton identifies. Me? Logan breathes, stroking a careful hand over the baby’s head.

“I like him too”  Logan returns the child, everyone's heart happy for the well-deserving pair.

~~~

“Kiddos” Patton tries watching as the twins circle around him, shrieking in laughter. “Hey” He smiles, scooping up Remus. “Everyones gonna be here soon, are you ready for the holiday party?” He questions, Valerie stops, just as Molly runs by taking the beagle in her arms.

“Molly's ready!” She announces, the puppy looks to her licking her face gently. Patton chuckles releasing Remus as he pushes against his father The boy antsy to play, he rushes helping Valerie pet Molly.

“Yay” Patton cheers weakly, the twins giggle before disappearing into their rooms once again. Playfully he rolls his eyes moving to the kitchen, double-checking everything once more as the candles and the lights wrap him tight, securing his safety. A quick trance before the door rings and it whisks away. “Barb!” He greets, taking his sister in his arms.

“Heya Patton” Barbara hugs back, moving away so Patton may greet Marcy. “Under the tree?” She asks, holding up what seems maybe too many gifts. Patton chuckles but nods.

“I told her not to go overboard” Marcy quips watching her wife place the presents delicately. “She does not listen” Marcy folds her arms, Patton nudges her softly

“Eh, you love her anyway” Patton jokes,  a small smile spreads across Marcy's face. Warmth to the house circling them.

“I really do” Marcy bites her lower lips, Barbara finishes preparing to stand quickly being attacked. The twins pounce instantly, an excited Molly yelping around them. The absolute joy that radiates from Barbara as she embraces her niece and nephew can not be matched. “I want to give her that” Marcy whispers, mostly to her own comfort.

“No update?” Patton laments, watching the scene unfold himself. His heart pounds in his ears, knowing how badly Barbara wishes for exactly what he holds. A family, but alas a cruel worlds fate deemed her unfit. How dare they? Patton thinks to himself.

“She just can't carry one to term” Marcy informs, the same thing they've heard for years. Barbara laughs as the twins poke and prod, excited as they interact.

“You can always adopt” Patton assures, he can't help but grin at the best thing he had ever done. The twins sing as they skip around the room. Marcy nods a deep sigh.

“We applied a few months ago” Marcy admits, Patton turns a quiet gasp and a smile. “Don't get too excited, we haven't heard anything” She looks back to her wife, a sudden somber dim upon the once joyful room. “I'm sorry, it's a celebration” Marcy looks to Patton, she plants a sweet kiss on his cheek. “Happy holidays Pat” She joins the group on the floor, greeting the twins.

“There's the door!” Patton chimes, opening it once more. “Hey you two- three” Patton corrects, his eyes falling on a snoring Thomas, safe in Remy's arms. “I set up Valerie's crib in the guest room if you need it” He greets both happily. They sigh relieved almost immediately traveling to the back room. Returning with a free glance after a moment. “Light the menorah?” Patton asks Emile as they venture through the house

“Mhmm, Thomas loved it” Emile can't help but gleam, Remy makes his way to greet the twins. They pounce on him the same, including him in their never-ending cycle of energy. “Remy's parents were awfully excited in their own right” Emile laughs, Patton squeezes his arms as the doorbell rings once more.

“Hey you two!” Patton greets, hugging Roman and Virgil as they enter his residence. “Gifts under the tree” He smiles as Roman holds up maybe too many gifts. “You okay?” He asks as Roman passes by, leaving an antsy Virgil with a calm Damian in his arms.

“Pat…” He looks behind “I'm sorry” Patton's heart sink as two figures make their way up the driveway. Gloria and Arlo tread carefully through the simply beautifully decorated front yard, judging everything that comes in their path. “I'm here if you need me” Virgil pats his shoulder before joining the group.

“Mom...dad” Patton greets, Gloria and Arlo barely glance towards him before squeezing through. “Yeah hi to…” He trails off his eyes falling onto something much more pleasant. Logan steps out of his car, his feet crunching the soft snow below him. He stops as he sees Patton. “Hi” Patton smiles, his aura glowing with a feathery blush.

“Hi Patton” Logan greets, he meets him face to face. Patton smiles from his corners, he gestures for Logan to join him in their safe bubble. Logan does just that, and they stand freely under the lights as they dance around the room.

“Dada! Is it present time yet?” Remus begs, tugging at his father. Logan chuckles picking up the small boy, much to both Patton and Remus’s joy. “LoLo!” Remus cries, his small arms wrapping safely around the lawyer.

“I fear you're going to have to exercise patience dear Remus” Logan advises, Patton watches him carry the boy to the couch. Patton takes a cautious breath as the party continues without him, he finishes up the treats in the kitchen watching everyone from afar. Marcy tries her hardest to amuse Gloria and Arlo, Barbara watches the twins as they marvel at the presents, Damian speaks calmly to his father and Roman expressing his own bouts, Remy and Emile continue to appear and disappear before making light conversation. Everything a well-oiled machine, Patton fears to break that.

“Dinner time!” He announces, Valerie scurries his way jumping delighted into his arms. Remus remains in Logan's arms, a quick smile as they pass each other. “Ok Remus, Val, and Dee are over here” He instructs, the proper arrangements are made accordingly. Soon everyone else fills in a chair. Patton sits next to the twins, Virgil in front of him next to Damian. Logan seats himself next to Patton, as Roman does with Virgil.

“Oh Pat, this looks delicious” Barbara compliments, already diving in as she helps Marcy. Patton smiles and quickly pairs are created. Logan and Patton discuss with one another while serving the twins. Marcy flirts shamelessly with Barbara, Patton watches giggling. “Oh I'm so sure” Barbara retorts, the table laughs at their antics. She leans in kissing her wife on the cheek.

“Barbara, would you care to refrain from...so much public display” Gloria punishes, Patton, sighs feeling Logan takes his hand carefully. A grateful glance is registered. “It's just...we’re at dinner dear”

“Mom, nobody else is bothered” Patton comments, Remus and Valerie pause, their eyes alight with curiosity. “Just admit you're h-” He bites his lower lip, Remus and Valerie. “Just, no one else is bothered mother”

“Pat it's fine, sorry mom” Barbara laments, turning quietly to her food and continuing. Her energy dampened. Patton turns to his children, assuring them everything's ok, Logan keeps a steady hand on Pattons. The doorbell rings and Glorias face improves, she stands with Patton.

“Oh! That must be Liam” She taps excited, Patton inhales sharply. “I'll get it!” She cheers, dancing her way to the door. Patton stands, kissing the twins gently on the forehead, begging his friends to watch them.

“Ill be right back” Patton excuses himself, a gentle squeeze to Logan's hand as he leaves to his room. Closing the door, he slides against it, a shuddered breath. “Take a deep breath Patton, you're okay, he can't hurt you, he can't hurt them” He recites, his eyes move to the windowsill, bunched clothes lay. “Something to do” he sighs relieved, he moves slowly folding the clothes neatly.

“Patton?” Logan creaks, the door squeezing open. The lawyer turns, a sweater in his arms. “Are you-”

“Anything else” he interjects, his soft eyes practically shattering behind the reflective light of his glasses. “Talk about literally anything else” He pleads, Logan nods instantly closing the door behind him.

“You say we’re moving too fast but I think we aren't moving fast enough” Logan decides, he has had one glass of eggnog, and yet his mind feels as sane as it has. Patton stops, a small opening to his mouth, not what he was expecting. “I have known you for ten years, Patton. I know you're scared and I know that you have every right to be-”

“The twins” Patton argues, a minuscule shatter to his voice. Logan moves forward, he takes the sweater leaning it on a chair, his hands interlace with Pattons.

“If I thought, even for a moment, that any of this” He looks between them “Would even dare hurt them, Id walk away. If there was even a chance that any of you would suffer, I would walk away” He assures, Patton watches with a fearful look. His lips pursed, his baby blue eyes shine with droplets of tears. “Patton, I love your kids, and I would be happy to just continue being in their life as I am now but…” He examines the lawyers face, taking his thumb to rub a delicate tear away. “I want to be with you, I want to hold your hand, I want to get lost in your eyes and have my mind consumed by you every waking moment” Logan admits, Patton scoffs through his sadness, knowing that broken desire well enough. Knowing the feeling, and knowing the absolute pain it causes.

“That's the stuff of fairytales”

“Then god dammit Patton, I want a fairytale” Logan laughs “That...monster might be your villain but beat him, Patton, fight for your happily ever after” Logan seethes, refusing to let Liam and his smug face, his undeserved boldness, ruin this.

“I'm so tired of fighting Lo” Patton shuts his eyes, a tickle as the liquid seeps out. They meet each other foreheads, the connection forcing through the barricades, joining them together once more.

“Then let me fight alongside you” Logan replies “You don't have to face every day alone, you don't have to force every smile” Pattons not sure what hit him, but in a seconds flash he felt Logans lips against his own. His hands move to Logans chest, the pulsating heartbeat he feels grounding him. The world could go on without them, they couldn't care less, they were fine-

No

They were happy

Is this what it feels like? A shared thought, a united question from an emotion they matched.

~~~

“I've just never met someone as forward as me” Roman quips, Virgil laughs. “I'm serious, I mean...I'm not complaining it's just...I'm not used to it” He thinks of James, the sizzling reminder of their brief hold.

“Oh I like him” Virgil teases, Roman nudges him, the pair turning back to the party.

“My turn!” Valerie cries, Patton nods sweetly from the couch, Remus sprawled across him and Logan, sleepily. “Papa! Is it this one?” She questions, hefting a big box up, Patton chuckles in affirmation. She tears it open, wrapping flies every which way. A gasp as her eyes fall onto the gift. A small groan is heard from behind Patton, where he knows his parents stand with Liam. “What is it?” She asks, a silly smile across her face, the group laughs.

“That, Val, is one part of your new kingdom set” He explains, she balls the wrapping paper in her fists bouncing excitedly. “The rest is waiting to be built, we’re going to put in the backyard and you-”

“And Remus!” She giggles, Patton stifles a sob, he was much too lucky. Valerie pushes past her other gifts, including; new art supplies from Logan, a beginner's clothes making kit from Roman and her own detective kit from Virgil (as requested).

“And Remus can play and live out all your fairytale adventures” He finishes, his daughter wasting no time jumping into his arms, hugging him with all she had. “You like it?” He jokes

“Thank you, papa! Thank you!” She celebrates. Once they part she moves to her brother, shaking him. “Your turn dummy” Remus mumbles awake, switching positions with Valerie. She sits in the middle of the lawyers, clapping her hands in anticipation. The night continues, Remus receives a slime lab from Virgil and Damian (almost an instant regret), a plethora of books of new words from Logan, a whole new assortment of costumes from Roman and the promise of a fish tank and fishes from his father.

More gifts are exchanged throughout the fast evening. Barbara and Marcy deemed the stuffed animal queens, each child receiving one. An octopus for Remus, a valiant lion for Valerie, a two-headed snake for Damian and a mixing bowl of teddy bears for Thomas. Remy and Emile find themselves gifted with many new items, mostly for Thomas but they couldn't be happier. Even Gloria and Arlo gain a few new things, Barbara and Patton don't skimp. Damian ends the night quite pleased with his new valuables and trinkets. Especially the new compass from his father.

“I have a gift for the Hart family” Logan announces, Remus and Valerie shoot awake, now fully present. Patton tears his gaze away from a suspicious Liam, eyes meeting Logans. “A family full of royalty and fairytales and it shocked me to find, you've never been to Disney world” He plays, Patton releases a soft laugh. The twins look to one another, giant grins plastered across their tired faces. “Four tickets for you two, your father and a special guest of your choosing” He looks to Patton, handing him the envelope, a careful shock as they meet across the promise of joy.

“I want LoLo to come with us!” Remus begs, he bounces on his father's leg, Patton scoops him up tickling him. “Aa!” He shrieks laughing, Valerie giggles falling onto her backside. “No Dada!” Even Damian finds the scene amusing as he rests his head on Virgil's shoulder, safe in his father's arms.

“That's up to Logan” Patton finally decides, releasing the red-faced boy. “And we can talk about it later, but it's getting late and you don't want Santa to think you're still awake right?” All three children gasp, Damian pokes his father alerted.

“Hold on” And there it is, Liam makes his way to the tree, his eyes piercing through Patton. “Before you go, I have a gift” He reveals, Gloria swoons clapping. Patton's shoulders recoil, his arms around the twins only stabilize. “I thought that you two should know where you came from” he smirks, evil oozing. Virgil feels Roman take hold of his arm, pushing him back as he growls. Patton sits forward, an immense frown, hinting annoyance as Liam talks.

“We know!” Valerie smiles, Remus nods. Liam steps back, tilting his head. “Papa told us when we were little a nice lady gave us to Papa. Papa wanted kids and he couldn't have any, but then she gave us to him. And he's been our papa since we were babies!” Valerie concludes, Patton shuts his eyes pulling them close. The others clap at Valerie's excellent storytelling skills. “What was the word again?”

“Adopted” Patton reminds, Valerie nods satisfied. “And I love you very much,” He tells them, knowing he would tell them even after words didn't make sense to him when his mind was old and grey, that would stay. “Now off to bed with you heathens!” He jokes, they race to their room after quick goodbyes to everyone. A special hug for Logan and an explicit farewell from Remus to Damian. Soon the house clears, a determined Damian dragging his father home, new parents Remy and Emile sludge home exhausted. Roman leaving soon after, followed by Barbara and Marcy. Then there were five. After a firm reprimand from Patton, his parents leave shortly after. “Now you” He points to Liam.

“Patton don't, he's not worth it” Logan speaks out, paying no mind to Liam's existence. “Your phone Pat” Logan identifies, a sweet tune snapping them back. Patton takes it, still watching Liam wary. “If I could kill one person, with no consequences, I hope you know, it would be you,” Logan says casually once Patton is not within earshot.

“Excuse me?” Liam furrows his brows, a tight face. Logan shrugs, folding his arms.

“You are, in the most eloquent way, an absolute monster” Logan names, his fingers snap “Or as I believe Virgil would say ‘A dick’” Logan settles, nodding, clearly liking this option. Sure he had had a few eggnogs, but it's not like he wasn't justified “Its really quite humorous, you came here expecting to derail a loving home and yet…” He looks around, the perfect room shaping the absolute care and happiness it contained wonderfully. “You failed because you don't know Patton or his kids-”

“Our kids”

“His kids, let's not even go there” Logan smirks, Patton returns a solemn look on his face quickly shaken away. “Patton are you alright?” Logan checks, his demeanor softens.

“Hmm? Yeah fine” he hums “Liam I think you should go” And so he does, clearly defeated. After a sloppy cleanup session, a hesitant Logan takes his leave as well, fidgeting all the way as he remembers the last few moments he spent with Patton. Something had changed after the phone call, something happened.

“Patton Hart!” Patton greets, putting out as cheerful as he could.

“Enjoy your last few moments of happiness mister Hart” And the line goes dead

[redrobin-detective]

Don't know if this had been asked before but how would resolve/explored/develop the batfamily dynamics pre 52? I don't know if it was you or someone else, but it was brought up that the idea of Damian being more Dick's kid than Bruce's would be a neat idea to explore. Bruce would still bond w/Damian but he'd have to deal w/Damian seeing Dick as his real dad and Dick staying Batman for Damian's sake. Tim and Dick repairing their bond while the former and Damian would learn to accept each other.

Sorry, I know, I’ve held onto this for nearly a week but this is such a big ask I’ve been thinking about how to best describe and format it so I’ve been doing it bit by bit. Because I’ve given quite a bit of thought to how to integrate the ideas of pre-Flashpoint smoothly into N52, using the plot lines and developments from the later without sacrificing the former. I think it could have easily have been done and been more interesting because DC dropped off on some intense plotlines. *Also to save my fingers, Pre = Pre-Flashpoint/N52

Dick/Dami- I have done a few posts about how close they were pre and how Dami and Bruce really weren’t. Bruce was not the best father before he came back from the dead and had no interest in working with Damian in order to help the boy heal. In my fantasy, this would have played out. Damian would have refused to leave Dick’s side as his partner while now Bruce is hurt/confused on why his son now doesn’t want to be with him. I want Damian and Bruce to have a relationship but I want B to have to work for it. Nightwing and Robin shows Dick and Dami together with Batman and Red Robin has Tim and Bruce teamed but slightly at odds with each other, the once close relationship showing strain while Dick and Dami are going strong. Eventually Bruce earns Damian’s love and trust and begins patrolling with Bruce but he still remains immensely close to Dick and, no one says it aloud, but everyone considers him more Dick’s child than Bruce’s. By the time of Damian’s death, it should be Dick who is outraged and inconsolable with grief barely able to function while Bruce goes into his angry/panicked mode because he’d barely gotten any time with Dami and now he’s gone.

Tim- Just Tim in general would need a lot of work done and I’m not just saying that cause he’s my favorite. Red Robin left us with some pretty massive loose ends not to mention Timmy had be been bent and twisted by his experiences to the point that he was different and not always in good healthy ways. In Batman and Red Robin, we see the strain slowly start to show. B is still mad for Tim almost killing Boomerang at the same time he’s upset at how much Tim has grown-up and grown away. He’s also lowkey upset about Dami and, I don’t want to say he’s using Tim to fill in until Damian comes back but it’s implied. He also becomes increasingly concerned for Tim’s mental/physical health. Tim meanwhile is a slow, steady downward slope of depression and feelings of isolation and hurt/anger/insecurity over how the batfam treated him the past few years. First half would show the two fighting and generally slipping down, maybe Tim has a bad health scare with spleen and finally enough is enough and they focus on pulling Tim back. Also like to see a resolution to the Ra’s arc in which Ra’s comes in and tries to sway Tim over to his side which becomes more possible as Tim slips further away from the batfam. The whole fam/Titans get together and help get Red in a better place. (also wishful thinking, as all this occurs, Tim begins to realize his love for Conner and is dealing with that on top of everything. It spills out one night and is delighted/terrified to find his best friend has felt the same way for a long time. they agree to put any relationship on hold until Tim is in a better place but they sneak a few kisses and the support really helps Tim get back together)

Tim/Jason- Just as an aside I’d really like to see this (brotherly/friend) relationship develop. I like that N52 had these two be friends but it drove me nuts that after 6 years of Jay wanting nothing more than Tim’s death they’re besties? I’d like to think Jay would be one of the first to see how bad things have gotten for Tim because he’s been there, he know what it’s like to be the forgotten Robin. And Jay is still angry but his head is finally starting to clear from the Pit and he acknowledges that what happened with him and B wasn’t Tim’s fault. And as he watches Tim slowly spiral downwards with seemingly no help, Jay decides he won’t see another Robin die. Jason approaches Alfred, then B about Tim’s health and ways to help. It’s tense and awkward as they test the waters but they agree to, separately, help get Tim straight. It’s slow going but between Outlaw missions, Jay stops by Tim’s apartment and hangs out with him. They patrol when B is with Dami, they talk and properly get to know each other. They find they have a bit in common and actually like talking. Tim finally talks about some of the messed up things that happened and lets Jay know how bad things got and Jay finally talks about his traumas and comes to terms with them. As Tim is still angry at Dick/Bruce, Jason becomes a confidant in the batfam.

Jason- Actually RHATO Rebirth Jason is a pretty good idea of what I’m thinking of. We have a Jason who, after a few years finally is able to move past the Pit’s influence and think clearly for the first time in a while. It makes him realize that most of his actions were done out of anger so he re-evaluates. B sees this and takes the opportunity to reach out which Jason appreciates and returns by telling B about Tim. That’s where B and J start making things right, when they’re talking about how to best help Tim, they’re also covertly talking about how to deal with what happened. It gets out that Hood is a Bat and Jay is forced to ally himself properly with his family in order to avoid being torn apart by the criminal community. Jay will never be the golden son, he agrees that he won’t purposely kill but he toes the line far more than Bruce is comfortable with. The trust between them is razor thin but they’re trying. B hates it but he uses Jason as an agent who does the things B cannot/will not do. Jay spends only about half the time in Gotham, the other half with the Outlaws (NOT Kory/Roy, Jay needs his own team not hand-me-downs, Artemis/Bizarro?). He gets on better terms with Tim, but is still at odds with Dick even more so on Tim’s behalf for replacing the kid when he was down. Eventually learns to like Dami and becomes a proper big brother with him. I’d like a side arc seeing Jason going back to school? Going to GCU maybe with Steph under a false ID, that’d be nice.

Cass and the BOP- Having read Cass’s Batgirl run I think it’d be a natural progression that she’d fit in with the Birds. Cass loves her new family but she also needs space for herself to grow and she remembers Bruce was rather suffocating with her. She moves in fulltime with Barbara on the excuse she’s there to help/respond quickly but honestly she’s working on bettering her people skills and needs that constant human interaction. Babs teaches her to read when not on missions and the other Birds are very supportive of Cass. Cass also trains the other Birds in techniques and really hones the Team’s skills. They become just as formidable and respected as the Bats. They learn to coordinate better so they each can have more times off. The Birds would have their own section of Gotham as “theirs”, their own rogues gallery, get involved in the ladies’ personal lives. Barb is still struggling with her on again/off again relationship with Dick, now complicated by children in all but name, Damian and Cass (lol Bruce lost two children to other people). Cass is working on being a person and not a weapon but trying to keep up her impressive skills. Steph is a reserve member, available if needed but she’s really trying to ally herself with the Bats. She and Cass though retain a strong relationship, Steph because her relationship with Tim has soured and she needs someone and Cass because Steph was her first friend.

Stephanie- I’d basically like a continuation of her Batgirl run which was marvelous and go read it. Stephanie is still trying to prove herself to that Bats that she’s worthy of the cape and cowl and, for the most part, she’s earned it. Bruce now grants her the Batgirl title and keeps her on the roster and her belt equipped. But there’s always gonna be some tension between them and he’s undeniably harsher on her than the others. She patrols often with Dick and Damian who like/trust her more and, a lot of times, if Dick is working or whatever it will just be her and Damian. She relishes the big sister role and the feminine influence is good on Damian (though he’ll never admit to it). Continues her classes at GCU, nearly falls over when Jason sits next to her in her English Lit class. The big problem for her is keeping up with the other more confident/well-trained heroes and also repairing her relationship with Tim. She messed up, he took it badly, she moved up in batfam, he started spiraling out of control. He’s still angry about what went down but recently has been trying to repair the relationship. But too much has happened and they’ve both changed so much. Neither likes admitting how different from Robin and Spoiler they are. Her and Jay discuss how to handle Tim while studying poetry. As Tim’s health improves, he lets Steph in more and they start their friendship over. Also very close to the BOP/Cass and while she’ll hang out with them a lot out of costume, she’s determined to be a Bat. Maybe after she gains some confidence, she might switch over to the BOP for good.