#Damian is resentful toward his younger brother

[nelkcats]

Jasmine Al Ghul

A while ago the perfect assassin was born, she was Talia's daughter but Ra didn't like the rebellious look in her eyes, they were claiming for destruction and he knew that she would do nothing but destroy the League as soon as she could.

So he rejected her as the heir, something Jazz grew to resent. When the twins Danyal and Damian were born, one was clearly weaker than the other, considering that he was born without breathing and was only saved at the last second.

This made Ra make his decision: Damian would be the heir and Danyal his shadow. But Danyal wasn't interested in killing, no matter how much he was punished for refusing, he wanted to see, to explore, to learn. Everyone could see it.

Because Damian was spending more time on heir training, Jazz devoted herself to taking care of Danyal. She tried to teach him but the boy kept refusing, failing over and over again in the most simply things, Jazz hated him.

Until she stopped hating and became fond of him, feeling a kinship because of their grandfather's rejection. Danny taught Jazz things she had never considered (love, stars, a new interest far away from training, find the meaning of life simply by living) and she made her decision: she would save the boy.

Jazz escaped with Maddie Fenton (one of Talia's students) seeing she wantes to save them too and could pass as their mother, she took Danny with her. She couldn't leave him in that place, she wouldn't forgive herself.

Of course, Damian grew to resent his younger twin for taking their sister away. Blaming him for being weak, why did Jazz leave him behind? He could be a good little brother too, he was better than Danyal! In everything!

[owlwithanapple]

Bird & Fox

Chapter 12

Nightwing & Fox make a bet.

You returned home stood at the entrance take off your shoes. Kirin went to room and slept on the bed. You went to the kitchen get a bottle of beer sat in the living room to drink it. The first sip felt so refreshing. It had been a long time since had a beer and now finally had a drink. Why did you drink? Actually, you were worried because of the situation you had just with Mr. Wayne, and you couldn't help lecture Damian.

You looked down at the bottle in your hand blurted out "family..."

It was so suffocating to be alone at home and think about all sorts of things. You couldn't bear the pressure, put on your equipment turned into Kitsune and ran out with a few bottles of beer. You reached a high place found a good place put the bottle and sat down. You pushed the fox mask up to reveal your sweet lips and started drinking. Everyone's life has its own story, including you and your family. There is a tragic past.

Should it be fate or reality? You witnessed your parents being slaughtered to pieces, and your only hope, younger brother, could not escape their clutches. You were the only survivor who was rescued by SHINOBI. You saw them killing all the demons until only one head was left. From then on, you followed their footsteps into the future. It is your great fortune that you see the light from the brutal abuse.

You want to forget your family and those demons. You keep saying that you have forgotten them, but can't do it. Even though they have been killed beyond recognition, their faces still vividly imprinted in your mind. The scene at that time still in your memory. A sea of ​​blood enveloped you, the sound of pain kept lingering in your ears. The young self was tied up with ropes and cut all over by hot knives.

The funniest thing is someone handed a knife and told you to stab the demon to end your hatred. Unbelievably, your resentment and pain disappeared. You returned the sharp and powerful knife to that person. You didn't do it. Maybe your heart was dead and couldn't be cruel to those demons, or didn't want your hands stained with your family's blood.

"Won't it be lonely to drink alone?"

You turned and saw a person, his feet stretched in the air, his hands on the ground, step by step, walking towards you. You put down the bottle looked at him with a confused look on your face, although the mask covered you. He turned back and stood beside you with an elegant posture. You saw the tall and slender figure was Nightwing, his behavior made you speechless.

"Excuse me, what are you doing, knight?" You said with a smile.

He sat next to you, his back straight, his legs swinging. "I saw you here alone, so I came to check on you because I was worried. What's wrong? You look depressed."

You shook your head. "Nothing serious."

"If you don't mind, you can talk to me. I also have something on my mind want to talk with someone." Although he told you calmly, his tone was a little heavy.

You bumped him with your shoulder. "Knight you skipping work?"

He bumped back. "Knights guarding the city also get tired and want to rest."

You took a bottle of beer opened and handed to him. "Not talk about it first, drink it, it's low in alcohol and you won't get drunk."

He was chuckling. "Thank you."

You poured a mouthful of beer and swallowed it. You heard Nightwing also take a sip. The two of you very close, shoulder to shoulder but not touching each other, just quietly accompanying each other. Nightwing's attitude turned into a quiet person because he sad, and he didn't flirt with you as charmingly as before. You are also a chatterbox in daily life, but you want to be quiet when you are worried.

You poured beer into your mouth and found that it was a bit unsatisfying. In desperation, you planned to go home and continue drinking. You stood up with the empty beer bottle to leave. You walked a few steps turned around to see Nightwing was still there. You ignored him left directly, threw the few bottles into the trash can. You clapped your hands. Although you wore gloves, you had to pay attention hygiene habits.

You looked up at the sky into the distance, a feeling of worry surged in your heart. Although you couldn't see Nightwing's expression just now, but vaguely feel he was sad. You didn't want to meddle in other people's business. After all, you two were not familiar with each other's lives, and you couldn't say nice things for no reason. But, you just couldn't let him be alone and depressed.

You quickly returned to the place found that there was no one. He was no longer sitting there. You felt a little regretful for not saying goodbye to him. The feeling of worry might be an illusion. Since he left, there was no reason to stay here any longer. You took the step to leave, someone behind you quietly reached out pull you. You quickly looked and saw it was Nightwing.

He smiled and walked towards with an expectant attitude. "Why did you come back?"

You shook your shoulders and acted nonchalantly, pointing to the sky. "I came to see the night view."

He shook his head with a sly smile. "Haha, are you kidding me?"

You tilted your head looked at him. "How dare I? I don't want to provoke you."

He smiled. "You did provoke me."

"Huh?" You were confused.

He approached and held your arm. "Then can I expect something from you?"

Nightwing POV

Memories-

The day before the business trip, Bruce asked me to help attend some work events, and needed to go out of town for a few days. I knew Bruce was too busy with work, so I accepted his request. At that time, he handed me two plane tickets, and I thought Babybird could help me. So I went to his room, I knocked on the door he opened and asked me to come in.

I saw his bed was full of books. Since he came to the manor, there are more books in the house because of his love of reading. I took a book from his bookshelf and read it. The books he read so profound that I doubted my life. I put the book back sat on his bed. Although he complained and told me to get out, he still didn't drive me away and let me lie on his bed.

I sat up and saw him reading very attentively. "Babybird, are you busy recently?"

He read the book but didn't ignore my question. "Very free, except for patrolling and training at night. What?"

I forced the plane ticket on him. "Work with me! It can only be you!"

He was surprised. "What!? Are you crazy?"

"Bruce gave me some work, I need you to help me with some. Please, Babybird." I looked at him with a pair of pitiful eyes.

He shook me off and avoided my pitiful eyes. "Why must be me? You know I'm not good dealing with those upper-class people. Flattering is not my strong point."

I put my arm around his shoulders. "Why? Can't bear to leave your girlfriend?"

He looked at me with a blush. This was the first time I saw the cute side of Babybird. "Fuck. How many times do I have to tell you! Pure friendship!"

"How about... I tell her that Red Hood who kissed her lips through the helmet is Jason Todd?" I took the opportunity to bully him.

He snatched the plane ticket and pointed at my face with a fierce look, "Damn it! I'm warning you! If you dare to tell anyone, I'll kill you!"

I hugged him happily, "My dear brother, I love you so much!"

He tried desperately to break free from my embrace, "Damn it! Let me go!"

I searched for his luggage and found it. I took out some decent clothes from his closet. Of course, suits are indispensable for entertaining those upper-class people. Babybird is strong and tall, Bruce always prepares clothes that fit his size for him. I put all his things neatly in the luggage.

I thought of his crush, and I reminded him, "Babybird, remember to tell her you are on a business trip. Otherwise, she will be worried."

He was surprised, but because of what I said, he took out his phone obediently, "It's not your turn to teach me how to do it."

Babybird has a rather irritable personality and temper, but he still has a gentle and considerate side, especially with the girl he has a crush on. He won't introduce me to her, and I'm so anxious that wanted to secretly go and see who the lucky girl is. When Red Hood kissed her, I was too far away to see her face clearly.

"Hey, when are we leaving?" I heard Babybird ask.

"Leave tonight and arrive tomorrow." I answered.

He jumped out of bed "What?! Tonight! What time!"

So we quarreled for a long time that day, and finally succeeded in convincing Babybird to go on a business trip with me. Of course, he kicked me a few times, and my butt was numb. After, there still some free time, so Babybird dragged me to clean up his messy room. I sorted all the books in order, and he was checking the contents of the luggage.

After ready, he and I dragged the luggage to downstairs together. I saw Bruce in the lobby waiting for time, and Alfred greeted us. Bruce was surprised when he saw Babybird, his reaction was normal because he rarely interfered with Bruce's work. But when Bruce saw Babybird, his face was full of happy smiles. This is what I expected, living like a family.

We learned that Alfred would take us to the airport, Bruce would drive himself because the flight times were different. Before leaving home, Bruce and I hugged each other before getting in the car. I put Babybird's luggage in the trunk of the car, then opened the door of the passenger seat and sat in to wait. I happened to see Babybird and Bruce talking, after the conversation, they hugged each other. What a warm and beautiful picture.

On the fourth morning of the business trip, I woke up and stretched in bed. I heard the sound of snoring, from Babybird who was sleeping soundly in another bed. He must be exhausted, because had to face things he didn't like and was not good at in the past few days. Talking business with those upper-class people really couldn't escape the fate of being forced to drink. Thanks to him blocking for me, I could stay sober and rational.

My phone suddenly rang, I quickly took it and ran to the balcony, fearing I would wake up Babybird who was sleeping soundly. After I got to the balcony, I looked back at Babybird lying on the bed. It was great that he was not woken up by me, so I was relieved. I was worried about Babybird but forgot to press the answer button and the call was hung up. I found it was my friend Wally West calling, I called back immediately.

As soon as I called, Wally answered immediately, "You are too slow to answer my call."

I sighed and smiled said, "Wally, you are too fast. What do you want to talk to me about?"

"Are you working?" Wally asked suddenly.

"I'm done. What?" I said casually.

Wally said excitedly and expectantly, "Do you want to have breakfast together?"

I laughed. Wally West is the Flash himself. He is the kind of person who is always available. His lightning speed can move around the world quickly. When I was working as Nightwing, sometimes took a lot of rides with him, riding on his back. Thanks to my friend who is fast, he always appears in the first time to help me a lot, and I have successfully escaped many crises.

"I'll send the location now. Meet over there."

"No problem, I'll be there in a few seconds!" After saying that, he hung up the phone.

I returned to the room, washed up, and changed into casual clothes. I took a piece of paper wrote a note saying "I'm going out for breakfast" and put it next to Babybird's bed, then left the room. I left the hotel walked to a nearby restaurant, which was not far away only took three minutes to walk. Suddenly, a flash of lightning flashed in front of my eyes, and in that instant I was standing at the door of restaurant.

As I expected, I looked to the left saw a man with dark red hair who was about the same height as me. "Very punctual, Wally."

He winked at me, "Of course."

We both walked into the restaurant and chose a suitable seat to sit down. I flipped through the menu ordered a simple breakfast and a cup of coffee to refresh myself. I returned the menu to the waiter, and about a minute later the waiter brought the drinks to us. I finally understood why Tim liked coffee so much. The aroma hit me in the face, couldn't stand the charm of coffee.

"You work alone?" Wally suddenly asked.

I shook my head "Nah, I came with my brother."

"Which brother?"

I laughed and said "Jason. Unbelievable."

He looked at me in surprise "Indeed."

I put the cup to my lips and took a sip then put it on the table "Free today?"

He nodded "Yes, I was bored. So I came to see you."

His answer made me laugh so hard. Wally is a great guy who teases me. It's very comfortable to be with him. He's the kind of guy who can come whenever I need him. There were several times I couldn't pass the game, and he showed up at my house after I called him. Sometimes Tim and Damian were surprised by Wally's sudden appearance and disappearance.

Wally swiped his phone and showed me the news "Hey! Hot news! Look!"

I took his phone to see what news could make Wally excited. I read the content bit by bit, and my eyes widened instantly. The title said Robin and the fox mask Gotham Runner joined forces to fight criminals. It's unbelievable that Damian acted alone during my absence, the most unbelievable that he fought criminals with her. But I didn't expect Kitsune to fight criminals. I thought she would be an enemy.

"I'll go Gotham City one day to spar with her~" Wally smiled evilly.

I looked at the news, reading it carefully one by one. I found her style of doing things very simple, like last time she chased the robbers. Obviously, we were both chasing the same target, but she chose not to join forces and solve it herself. I can't see through her, and I don't know which side she is on. Bruce said talk to her first to find out about her, but she is really hard to understand and control.

"Hey. You still there?" Wally snapped fingers in front of me.

I woke up "Oh! Sorry! I was thinking."

"But, do you know which side the fox mask is on? Batman will investigate her if messes around in Gotham City like this." Wally suddenly asked a question I couldn't answer.

I crossed my hands in front of my chest and shook my head "Batman sent me, I don't know her. She is very mysterious, I can't get her, and she avoids sensitive questions."

"I understand." He nodded.

I shook my head and blurted out "The so-called woman's heart is like a needle in the sea."

Wally was silent and asked carefully "Hey, you still can't let her go?"

I returned the phone to Wally, looking embarrassed "You mean Barbara?"

Wally nodded, his expression looked worried "Is there another Barbara?"

Barbara Gordon, my ex-girlfriend, Batgirl. She was a young, smart and lively girl. The appearance of Batman inspired Barbara to embark on the road of fighting crime, and she soon began to cooperate with Batman and me. She became Batman's most important assistant. I gradually fell in love with this smart, kind and lively girl, and then I had many romantic relationships with her.

I sighed and shook my head, saying in a cold tone, "It's a thing of the past."

Wally took a sip of his drink, "The next one will be better."

I laughed and exhaled, "The next one... I haven't figured her out yet."

Wally was surprised and excited, "Is there really a next one? Who?!"

I woke up instantly, and I was thinking about Kitsune in my mind. I quickly clarified with Wally, "No, no, no, really."

Wally laughed and pressed my shoulder, "Then figure her out."

"Damn... Let's eat first, I'll tell you next time." I started to eat breakfast.

After finishing breakfast, I went to the counter to pay then walked out of the restaurant. On the way back to the hotel, I blinked and arrived at the hotel entrance in an instant. Wally said goodbye to me and disappeared like lightning. I stepped into the hotel and waited for the elevator. I took out my phone to read the news about Kitsune. Her side of fighting criminals attracted a lot of attention.

At that time, I didn't take her down in time, and was caught off guard by her counterattack and electric shock attack. I thought about it for a whole night, I turned into Nightwing again to look for her in the night, but I couldn't find her. Her appearance was mysterious, she appeared randomly and disappeared out of thin air. She didn't seem like a neurotic person. When I talked to her alone, I felt that she was a very smart and rational person.

I put my phone away stepped into the elevator. As the elevator went up, Kitsune's voice and figure kept surrounding me. Her mystery and words attracted me to think about her all the time. Could it be... I looked up saw the bright lights in the elevator. It was too bright, I closed my eyes lowered my head. I shook my head tried to make her fox mask disappear from my mind.

But I couldn't do it….She was still in my mind. "I should go check it out."

End of memories -

Y/N POV

What's going on now? Nightwing seems to be a little off. His aura been strange since we met just now. He talks nonsense and you have no idea what he wants to say. He expects something from you. Is he going to make you an alliance? But you are really not interested in such things. Or he drunk from the beer just now? It's even more impossible. That was the low-alcohol kind.

"I didn’t have anything to expect." You blurted out after laughing.

"That's hard to say." You can hear that his tone is a little arrogant.

You sighed and tried to shake off his hand, but it didn't work as you wished. To be honest, you are not someone worth expecting. You can't be someone who is idealistic. It's like being driven away. "Really, I didn't lie to you."

He pulled you and you threw your body towards him. You could feel the fluctuation of his breathing at such a close distance. Your bodies even pressed against each other, and you didn't know what to do. Suddenly, he whispered in your ear, "Maybe you think you are not worth my expectation, but I look forward to seeing you every day. Today I finally found you."

"Why did you find me?" You were confused and curious.

"Hehe... I just wanted to see you, nothing else." He said with a smile.

You were confused by him and a little angry didn't say it directly. You don't like the kind of vague words, and you are the worst at analyzing such situations. "Tsk, I thought you wanted to say something."

He lifted your chin up with his fingers "What's wrong? What do you want me to say?"

He is indeed quite good at flirting, you can't help but laugh out loud "Oh Knight, you really don't learn your lesson."

He was confused by what you said "Huh?"

You give him a small electric shock, and he immediately pushed you away took a few steps back. "Hahaha! You are careless for being so close to me!"

He opened his arms with a smile on his face "Are you serious? I want to give you a hug, it's a waste for you to interrupt the romantic mood like this."

You laughed out loud, he was so funny. He knew he would get shocked by you, but he still dared to approach you. It's bad enough that he didn't learn his lesson, he was still joking. It seems that he has cured all the bad mood today, you are really laughing now. You stole a glance at his expression, he was confused but the smile on his face was very sweet. You are very happy with you are doing now, he opened his arms took the first step towards you.

You shook your head slightly at his gesture, "If you don't want to be shocked by me again, you'd better stay away from me."

He smiled confidently and said, "You can try, I believe I can bear it."

You laughed so hard that your stomach cramped at his every move. You backed away step by step, trying to get away from Nightwing's clutches. It seems that tonight is a good time for flirting. It's rare to see you so happy until forget yourself. You stepped back and woke up because you missed a step. You knew you were about to fall from a high place. You were so excited that you forgot you were on the edge of a high place.

Seeing that the situation was not good, Nightwing ran over and grabbed your endless hand. If you let go of his hand, you definitely would really fall. Your hoodie was blown by the wind, revealing a head of bright white long hair fluttering in the wind. To conceal your identity, you dressed yourself in another way before changing into your equipment to prevent yourself from being exposed.

He pulled you into his arms held you tightly. You leaned against him, feeling a little overwhelmed. You felt his hands trembling, and he looked very scared and helpless. He held you tightly with one hand, and gently touched your white hair that fluttered in the wind with the other hand. After calming down, he approached your face, when you thought he was going to take off your mask, you heard him say, "I caught you."

You saw a confident smile on his face, and you asked, "What will happen after you caught me?"

He smiled shyly, "There is no future now. But …. When you came back to me just now, I believed there would be a story between us in the future."

"How do you know we will have a story?"

"I have been staying here since the first time I saw you. I am waiting for the day to meet you. Today I met you, and you came back to find me."

You shook your head, "Coincidence does not mean we will have a story."

"Then why did you come back to find me?" he suddenly asked.

"I said, I came to see the night view."

He laughed softly and took a deep breath, "You are stubborn."

"I thought you were praising me, thank you."

Although there was a mask between us, your eyes were looking at him, and your hands which had nowhere to put, were around his neck, "I had a lot of fun tonight. And thank you for saving my life."

He nodded, "Me too. Thank you for staying with me."

You both let go of each other at the same time, and for some reason he looked regretful. You walked to the edge and stood on it, letting your dazzling white hair fly in the air. You looked towards the distant sky, suddenly Nightwing pushed your shoulder to make you face him, then held your waist high and spun you in circles.

"What are you doing! I thought you were going to push me!" You pinched his cheek.

He laughed and breathed a sigh of relief, "Haha! You're doomed if you turn your back to me."

You were so light that he could easily pick you up with one hand, and the other hand held you so that your knees rested on his abdomen. Since you were taller than him and could look down at him, you put your hands on his shoulders to prevent yourself from falling. "Knight, you are so mean, you surprised and delighted me."

He couldn't hold back his smile and laughed, "You too. We are both like this to each other."

You held his cheeks with both hands and stroked them lightly with your fingers, "You are so funny. I hope we won't become enemies in the future."

He smiled slightly, "Then let's not be."

You shook your head, in fact, there was no smile on your face. Because you didn't want to become enemies with Nightwing. Your heart was heavy but

still maintained an optimistic tone and said, "It's easy to say, but you know it's hard between us. Neither of us can’t guarantee any changes between us."

Your words hit him so hard that he fell into deep thought. He carefully put you down, and you just looked at him without saying anything. Every word you said secretly carried some truth that he should know. You both from different worlds and different concepts. You don't expect him to stand on your side, because you know clearly that you can't guarantee either side.

He turned to you and blurted out "I believe in us."

You were surprised, your heartbeat accelerated, you turned your back to him at a loss, and waved your hand perfunctorily, "Hahaha, I don't believe it. You know it."

"I know I believe in you, and you trust me too. Otherwise, you wouldn't feel at ease leaning on me, you know you can get rid of me easily." He said it suddenly, and you couldn't respond to him. You are wary of everyone, and you are afraid he knows your momentary slackness. You clenched fists and closed your eyes to suppress your emotions. Why did he appear today to disturb your mood.

He stood behind you, holding your hands tightly, and leaned his head on your shoulder. "I know we can't guarantee what the future will be like. But I want to make a bet with you, and I hope you are willing to make this bet."

You shook his hand off, interrupting his ambiguous conversation. "Oh~ my knight, to be honest, I really want to believe you. I don't know what you want from me by saying sweet words to me. I guess it may be Batman who instructs you to do this and you arrest me."

He opened his mouth to explain himself, but you shook your head refused him with a gesture. "You want me to bet, but unfortunately I can't accompany you. I don't want to have an irreparable relationship between us."

He grabbed your arm. "Are you unable to accompany me or you afraid?"

"It's better to let me go, knight." You looked at him.

He said with a smug expression, "Dump me or shock me. You can do it."

You looked down and muttered, "Fuck you."

He lifted your chin to face him, "Since you didn't fight back, I can take it as yes."

You put your other hand on your waist and said, "Knight, you want to bet without seeing my face, you are at a big disadvantage. What if I take off the mask it turns out be an old woman?"

He was amused by your words, and then nodded in understanding, "It's true when you mention it."

"So don't bet. Neither you nor I want to be disappointed." You exerted a little strength to break free from him.

He held you tighter, but didn't hurt you. You saw him smile confidently, and you didn't understand why you couldn't get rid of him. Your heart was also led by his sweet words, and his every move kept disrupting your pace. You tried to calm down, but you were attracted to him and couldn't control your emotions. This is what you fear the most, and it's hard to change once it starts.

"Kitsune, I dare to challenge everything and willing to take risks for you. I said there is a story between us, as long as you are willing to bet, it will start."

"Knight, how brave are you to take these risks."

"Because I believe in you, I am willing to face it."

You hesitated for a moment, but decided to reject him decisively "I'm sorry."

"What are you afraid of?" He let go of your hand.

You touched the hand he let go, and you could still feel the warmth "I'm more timid, that's all."

He stretched out his hand, and his expression was no longer smiling but steady "Please, let's start as friends, okay?"

You look at his hand, your real thought is hold his hand tightly. But you dare not take the first step. You are a coward and choose to retreat. "It is better for us to keep some distance."

You walked past him, and he suddenly said, "At least I won once."

You turned around and looked at his back. "Huh? What do you mean?"

He turned around and said to you, "Just now. I believe you will come back to find me."

You laughed out loud, "Knight, I said I came to see the night view."

He shook his shoulders, "Whatever you say, I will prove it to you. I always believe that there is a story between us. Just wait and see, Kitsune."

You were silent and replied, "We are not destined to be together."

You heard the name he gave you, and your heart was happy but you couldn't be happy. You left the last words and disappeared, you didn't want to stay with him. You afraid more emotions would make you fall into the abyss and couldn't extricate yourself, so you chose to escape or give up on him. You covered your hair with a hoodie and wandered alone on the streets in the middle of the night until the last moment before going home.

Nightwing POV

After she left, I stayed in the same place. The place where I met her, but there was no her around, only me. I don't know why I want her so much, I didn't see her face with my own eyes but my heart was moved by her. It wasn't as good as I imagined, she kept rejecting me, no matter what I said, she was afraid.

After meeting her, I have been thinking about her and all the details of her. Since then, I have been missing her every moment, and I don't know why. Until today I saw her again, I was sure of the meaning of this relationship. I took the first step because I wanted to be sure and confident of my choice. That's why I wanted to make this bet and bet on our lives.

I thought about it for a long time, and I was worried about her. She was right. What would I do if she was not my ideal type without the mask? But I never thought of giving up on her because of her appearance. She may not be beautiful, but I have seen her helpful actions several times. She gave me the feeling of being a trustworthy and supportive friend, but I stepped into the threshold of love.

After some communication and body contact, I wanted to love her more. She was originally a girl with a very charming and mysterious personality, but gradually I found that she was actually more timid than I thought. When she was confident, she was not bound by constraints and allowed indulge herself.

I found that her weak side because of emotions. She did not dare to try but chose to retreat. This further inspired me to take the first step with her, and it seemed that it would take some time for us to accompany each other.

I sat on the edge muttered to myself, "Kitsune... who on earth are you that can fascinate me so much."

Chapter 12 End.

If you have any ideas, don’t be shy. Just leave a comment below. Your opinions would be valuable and will be added in story. ♥️💙

AO3 Chapter 12

AO3 Bird & Fox by owlwithanapple

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[bigskydreaming]

Here’s a thing:

I’ve seen a lot of Talia fans bothered by various posts about the Dick and Talia scene in Urban Legends, and like.....they’re absolutely right to be, IMO. I get it. I don’t blame them in the least and I’m not a fan of my own part in that.

So yeah...I don’t actually love the joke posts I made about the Dick and Talia thing the other night, or the atmosphere they’ve helped extend around that. They were just reactive shitposts I made in the moment without really thinking things through or how they’d be received or impact they could have. And not only are they not really representative of how I really see Dick and Talia’s dynamic, which DOES diverge significantly from a lot of greater fandom opinions on them....I also just shouldn’t have taken that Talia characterization at face value, and the whole thing (both the story and my own reaction to it) does a great disservice to her character and fans. After actually thinking about it a bit, like, that was A Mistake and one I’m not thrilled about and I can’t really walk it back but hopefully I can course correct a bit with some follow up.

The thing is, I don’t fuck with Morrison’s characterization of Talia, or Talia As Rapist, whatsoever. Hate it with a passion. But that doesn’t change the fact that it informs a lot of how she’s treated and talked about in both canon and fandom, and that awareness needs to be prioritized as a factor in convos about her. I don’t actually like emphasizing Dick and Talia at odds over Damian, as I think Damian has absolutely nothing to do with why they might not like each other. I’m firmly in the camp of Let Dick Be Damian’s Brother as opposed to seeing him as one of Damian’s parents, but I AM aware of how others view Dick and Talia as pitted against each other like rival parental figures where one is seen waaaaaaay more favorably than the other, and I really should have taken that into account before posting stuff that could easily feed into that regardless of whether or not that was my intent.

And above all else, there’s the fact that Talia has long been subjected to racist takes by both canon and fandom in ways that Dick absolutely has not. Even if like me you absolutely do view him and engage with his character as a character of color as well, this is not interchangeable with the way racism has factored into Talia’s writing and reception, and not factoring that in to how we talk about these characters or the dynamic we give them is a problem.

None of that was anywhere in anything I said on the topic the other day, and the jokes I contributed shouldn’t be more central to how Talia’s being talked about right now, than all of that instead.

So, here’s a better exploration of how I view Dick and Talia, or think they can be portrayed.

I do see Dick and Talia as mutually antagonistic but for reasons that have nothing to do with Damian. I think a lot of it is Dick’s fault, actually, and I do think there’s potential for humor in the idea that Dick’s attitude towards her is kinda childish and rooted in resentments he built up towards her as a kid, and that he’s never actually unpacked as he got older. But that only really works if its kept centered that he ISN’T rational about this and shouldn’t be validated for it.

This is as much headcanon as canon because I DON’T like the reasons canon has given for why Dick and Talia don’t get along. But I think that you could go with an angle that builds on Dick’s own insecurities and fears of impermanence about his living situation and relationship with Bruce, back when he was younger (assuming you’re interested in takes that build or assume a history of interactions that predate when they first met in pre-Reboot continuity, as Dick was already in college by then).

Point is, I think there’s angles from which Dick might have felt threatened by Talia’s presence in Bruce’s life in ways he never was by Selina’s, because Selina herself is rarely shown entertaining the idea of actually making her relationship with Bruce a cemented, permanent thing that WOULD affect Dick by extension. 

In contrast, Talia’s presence in Bruce’s life (pre-Morrison) came with more visible conflict for Bruce, because both Talia and Bruce could more obviously be seen as struggling with the desire to turn their back on their respective beliefs/methodologies in order TO be with the other.

(After all, in the original story in which Bruce and Talia had a child, this was literally what happened.)

So, in any fic, headcanon or continuity that has Bruce and Talia engage in a will-they/won’t-they narrative while Dick is Robin....Dick might have worried about Talia’s impact on Bruce - and the impact this would have on him - in ways he never did about Selina. Because historically, there was never really much of a question of if Bruce would give up being Batman or uproot himself to be with Selina. It was a non-factor. In contrast, the eternal conflict in Bruce and Talia’s relationship might well be that they’re both too steadfast in their personal convictions to ever be willing to fully put them aside in order to be with the other, despite all the ways and areas they disagree - BUT the conflict there is more evident, or might have been in a younger Dick’s eyes. Whether or not Bruce might actually do that could very well have been less of a given, from a third party perspective.

And again....this could absolutely be something that Dick worried about and felt threatened by, because he didn’t take it as a given that if Bruce did drastically change his life to be with Talia, he would prioritize or de facto take or keep Dick with him, no matter how much things changed. As I frequently talk about in terms of the juvie origin or headcanons or narratives stemming from it, those things don’t exactly lend themselves to a younger Dick Grayson having absolute belief that his place in Bruce’s life and household was unshakeable. And even when he was younger and he and Bruce were arguably much closer, they still didn’t necessarily have the kind of dynamic where Dick would voluntarily raise his fears or concerns about this kinda thing.

So yeah, I do think there’s room for Dick to default to being a childish asshole about all things Talia, even if the reasoning is he’s gotten used to just being that way ever since he was a kid and he’s never really interrogated himself on WHY that is, or if it...HAS to be that way.

And on Talia’s side of things, it could be as simple as....she’s not the kind of person who’s going to put up with that or being treated that way, no matter who’s doing it. Ironically, you could say her very willingness to regard Dick as being as mature and capable as his vigilantism from a young age suggests he should be or at least COULD be.....this could absolutely be an angle for her being yeah, I’m not gonna try and be nice to someone who’s being an absolute shit to me because I DON’T view him as just being a kid who doesn’t know better. I’m viewing and engaging with him as the chosen partner of my beloved, who fully trusts his capabilities and judgment in the field and when encountering all kinds of enemies and hostile adversaries.

On a somewhat related note, I think it could be argued that Dick ‘gets’ Selina more than he does Talia, because he finds it easier to relate to or understand Selina’s flexibility and adaptability when it comes to fitting into various situations or how she engages with different scenarios. It makes sense to him because he’s the same way about a lot of stuff and how he’s adapted to the major changes throughout his life. In comparison, it could be argued that Talia and Bruce are a lot more of a matched pair there, more obvious foils in the way that they’re a lot less apologetic about planting their feet and stubbornly resisting attempts to change their mind or get them to go another way - they absolutely might have doubts or second-guess themselves internally, but that’s for them to process in their own ways and time, and not something they’re gonna just let anyone in on. 

And its not like Dick or Selina are ‘apologetic’ about their own approaches or convictions, or that they don’t also play their cards close to their chests, its just....it looks different when they do it. So when Talia does it - like Bruce - its not as apparent to Dick, he doesn’t intuit it or innately assume there’s more going on under the surface or that their words or actions might not one hundred percent reflect what they’re thinking or how sure they are about what they’re doing or saying.

What this then could translate into, practically speaking, is that Dick’s always seen Talia as a more direct parallel to Bruce. And the thing is.....we all know Dick has Issues with a capital I, when it comes to how Bruce does a lot of things. How resistant he is to bending on various matters, how unapologetic he can be....his dad pisses him off a lot, is the big takeaway there. But at the end of the day, Bruce is still his dad, and Dick can always look back on the history of love they have between them, the breadth and scope of their relationship as partners and as father and son. Dick’s biased when it comes to Bruce, is the thing. And this factors into how Dick views some of Bruce’s worst acts, how willing or not he is to forgive him for stuff, how far outside of his own comfort zone or personal worldview he’s willing to make an EFFORT to step in order to try and see where Bruce is coming from with stuff or understand his POV. 

How well Dick knows Bruce OUTSIDE of just the areas where they conflict, how much he WANTS to understand where Bruce is coming from when he doesn’t get why Bruce would do something....this of course plays a huge role in how invested Dick stays in his relationship with his father no matter what happens between them. How quick he is to give him the benefit of the doubt even when everyone else is pissed at Bruce and condemning him for something, why he’s so willing to advocate for Bruce even when he feels personally hurt by his choices as well.

But this investment flat out doesn’t exist in his own dynamic with Talia....and vice versa, because again, I think its just as true that Talia finds a lot of Dick’s choices and priorities equally baffling. Where Dick might not get why Bruce does something or agree with his choices, he still wants to reconcile that with the father he loves and knows loves him....but he has no such need or willingness to try and reconcile or understand Talia’s motivations. Similarly, where Talia might be frustrated by how stubborn Bruce is on something, even how naive she might consider him for a divergent point of view or methodology....she makes allowances for it, doesn’t prioritize that in how she views him overall, because she’s invested in the man Bruce is BESIDES just the times and ways they disagree. She adjusts and compensates because Bruce matters enough to her that she’s looking for reasons to find common ground or a workable compromise. 

But even when Dick does or professes something identical to what Bruce would do or believes himself, something he might even have picked up from Bruce or been taught by him....Talia’s more naturally inclined to lean into how stupid she thinks this is or how frustrating she finds it, because she has no real stake in TRYING to do otherwise.

And honestly - I think you could also make a case or a story out of how much Dick’s antagonism towards Talia is because he, well, kinda scapegoats her in order to compensate for how frustrated he is with Bruce when it comes to ways and areas Bruce and Talia ARE alike. Dick might not be willing to LET himself be as frustrated or upset with his father as some of his choices make him.....but he sees no need to make such allowances when it comes to Talia even if what she’s doing isn’t much different from what Bruce would in a similar situation.

Cue up my feelings about Vengeance Academy, and how Dick knowing Talia’s involvement in it is all you’d ever need to explain them being eternally at odds.

Because, for instance, both Bruce and Talia show a history of being willing to train people from a very young age and put them into situations most people would consider them far too young for, because they do view them as capable of handling themselves and see this as a way to empower them or even enhance their chances of survival if they viewed them as inherently endangered because of who they were or other circumstances surrounding them.

And again, I think most people would agree that even with all the good things Dick associates with being Robin and his childhood of vigilantism, that same childhood vigilantism majorly contributed to ways in which he is fucked up. But even when in the throes of PTSD garnered from something that happened when Dick was Robin....the good things Dick associates with being Robin, being Bruce’s partner...those are still there. There’s no way for Dick to ever fully untangle the good from the bad, they go hand in hand. For all that he got hurt, too much of the very foundations of his and Bruce’s bond are rooted in those very same years of fighting side by side....for Dick to ever be able to truly regret being Robin or condemn Bruce for his role in the bigger picture, even when he does resent or blame Bruce for choices he made in specific stories.

But the same influencing or mitigating bias doesn’t innately extend to Talia’s role in enabling (his words) or empowering (hers) other kids from a young age. In fact, Dick’s views of Talia in this regard could easily be fueled or amplified by all the things he might deep down believe about how his own childhood vigilantism impacted him....but will never actually voice or maybe even face, because that risks straying too close to suggesting he regrets things he’s afraid or unwilling to regret, because of all the good he associates along with it.

He CAN’T judge Bruce too harshly, for all the things he associates with his childhood vigilantism....without feeling ungrateful for the stuff he DOESN’T regret, or without risking condemning himself for the mentoring and leadership role he’s had with other young heroes and his own successors.

Its too personal to him, he’s too entangled in it all.

But with Talia, it looks totally different, and he might honestly believe he’s being objective here. 

But TO Talia, this is only ever going to look one way: hypocritical. She’s understandably not going to be down for being judged for a lot of the exact same things Dick gives his father and family friends and himself a pass for, because they all do it ‘for the right reasons.’

And its not like being hypocritical here makes Dick a terrible character, or invalidates any of his own stories or choices, or sacrifices him for the sake of Talia’s character, lol, it just means what most of us are all in complete agreement about: he needs more therapy than he’s actually had! He’s got soooo much more to unpack about his entire life than what he’s actually unpacked! He can’t tell he’s not being objective because he has no clue how truly unobjective he actually is in a lot of instances!

But bottom line is.....I don’t think any of this has to vilify either Dick or Talia. It can just be conflict that’s born of them both being human and having very different perspectives on each other and their mutual dynamic. Either of them sniping at each other, preemptively or reactively, doesn’t have to be anything other than just....messy. This absolutely doesn’t make Dick her victim, it actually makes him the majority of the problem, to be frank, and I like that, honestly? I’m never going to NOT be one of the most annoying people in the room when I think Dick’s being condemned or criticized for shit I don’t think was his fault or that there’s context for that’s being left out of the conversation, let’s be real. But this is not that, and its actually a really good venue for showing how he IS flawed without asking him to be held accountable for more than his fair share of stuff.

And I think in character, Talia would roll her eyes at the very idea that being antagonized by her boyfriend or ex-boyfriend’s oldest kid is anything other than annoying or inconvenient for her - but it can still be those things! But it only works if things are kept appropriately framed and we’re not tipping the see-saw into trying to hold her accountable for a conflict that even IF you claim Dick only started when a child, he’s still perpetuating in stories where he’s an adult. Like, I’m just not a ‘turn the other cheek’ kinda person or fan and in favor of expecting a person or character to take the high road instead of just paying back in kind, the same energy someone gives them. But that’s a two-way street and it ONLY works as a two-way street.

So anyway. That’s my actual take on their dynamic, or what I headcanon or interpret their dynamic as being in various stories or when I write them myself. But even as the basis for how I view them and talk about them, it was nowhere on display in the posts I made the other night. So there’s no way it COULD have informed the conversation and how it was picked up and passed along and perpetuated by other people. And that’s one hundred percent on me, and not what I’d really like my contribution to the conversation to be.

[flyingkiki]

A Very Merry Christmas (3/4)

A little bit more excitement and a whole lot of steamy escapades for our favorite bbs. As promised, 2021 is a year of smut and steam for our favorite birbs.

Check out chapter 2 of A Very Merry Christmas to refresh your steam tank. We know Tim a little dirty boi behind closed doors -- or in abandoned tree houses.

In today's episode, that bathtub looks perfect for some luxurious steamy action.

~~~

Titus, much to Raven’s surprise had taken a great liking in her. Over the course of her stay, the Great Dane was practically glued to her side, following her everywhere. While endearing, it proved to be quite a challenge during movie nights once Raven quickly realized that despite his size, Titus believed he was a lap dog.

“Titus!” Tim whined when the dog’s tail smacked him across the cheek one evening while the whole family settled down to watch The Nightmare before Christmas. As Raven settled down next to Tim on the couch, Titus climbed up on Tim’s other side and clumsily clambered over his lap to get to Raven, who stifled a giggle.

“Oh,” Raven breathed as the huge dog settled on her lap, knocking the wind out of her. She felt Titus snout settle into the crook of her neck and his paw dig painfully into her thigh. The dog practically leaned against her and she shot Tim a quick look over Titus’ hulking form. The dog wiggled in her lap, trying to get comfortable. “You’re a big boy,” she breathed.

Tim frowned and tried to nudge the dog off his girlfriend. “You’re suffocating her, Titus.”

Unfazed, Titus yawned and clumsily knocked his face against Raven’s cheek. With a little huff, he licked her left cheek and dropped his chin onto her shoulder.

Raven squeaked softly at the lick and wiggled under Titus, trying to get comfortable. Titus paw dug painfully into her thigh. She leaned into Tim’s shoulder and grabbed his forearm, giving it a gentle squeeze signaling her discomfort. “Tim,” she whispered. He had to do something or her illustrious career as a superhero might just end due to suffocating under a 160-pound dog.

Tim sighed and reached around the massive dog to gently nudge Titus off his girlfriend. When the dog whined and sneezed into Raven’s shoulder, Tim rolled his eyes in exasperation. “Dami,” he called the younger boy sitting on the floor next to Dick’s loveseat. “Call Titus, he’s suffocating Raven,”

Damian looked over his shoulder, frowning at the sight of his dog taking more interest in Tim’s girlfriend. “Titus,” he called over the noise of Jack Skellington discovering Christmas. The dog di not even budge and Tim shot him an annoyed glance.

“Looks like Titus has a new favorite human,” Jason commented slily, enjoying getting rise out of his younger brother.

Damian huffed and glared at Jason for even insinuating Titus had a new favorite. Shaking his popcorn bowl, Damian called Titus again. The sound of popcorn in a bowl seemed to have caught his attention. “Titus, come here.” Damian called again just as Dick ‘shhed’ him.

Titus seemed to finally get the message and with a huff into Raven’s neck, he jumped off Raven’s lap (and successfully kneeing her in the process) and trotted towards Damian. With a low whine, he curled up right next to the boy and deposited his head into Damian’s lap.

Titus continued to follow Raven that evening. Tim flat-out refused to have the dog in their bedroom because sex with a dog watching was a terrible idea. Titus was following them the entire morning as they helped Alfred with a new batch of Christmas cookies.

“Titus, time for your walk,” Damian appeared at the entrance of the massive kitchen, already wrapped up in his winter jacket. He jiggled the leash to catch Titus’ attention, which was solely focused on Raven as she bent over the kitchen island pipping lopsided smiles on gingerbread men with Tim and Bruce.

The dog whined and gave Damian a brief glance before turning back to Raven.

“That much sugar cannot be good for you,” commented Tim in amusement after Bruce ate half of a gingerbread man. Their small group remained oblivious to Damian and Titus. It was Bruce’s second cookie that morning and Alfred was not pleased at the depleting cookie count.

“It was missing an arm,” Bruce brushed off the accusation of being a cookie thief. He broke off one of the legs of the cookie. “Here, have the leg.”

Tim looked scandalized. “And be an accessory to your crime, Batman?” he said with wide eyes but still accepted the amputated sugar treat. It was a delicious leg.

“Who knew Bruce Wayne was such a sugar junkie?” Raven commented after drawing yet another lopsided smile (frown?) on a gingerbread man. She stuck a bright purple candy onto her gingerbread man’s neck. That kind of looked better.

“His sugar panel is terrible, Miss Raven,” Alfred appeared next to them sounding totally unimpressed at Bruce’s sugar habit. He glanced at the pile of cookies they had been working on, noting a few that had gone missing. He sighed softly. “Perhaps I may suggest refraining from eating any more cookies, Sir? We’d like to keep the rest for Christmas tomorrow and some for everyone to take home as well,”

“Might not fit into the Batsuit after Christmas, Old Man,” Jason commented from where he was mixing chocolate chip cookies. Cass giggled next to him.

Bruce looked a bit sheepish has he polished off the last of the gingerbread man he stole from the pile. “Right, Alfred.” Raven watched as the man looked amused and she shared a small smile with Tim, who looked happy to spend a little downtime with his adoptive father. Moments like these were rare for Tim. “I shall have a little bit more self-restraint,”

“I’d appreciate that, Sir,” Of course, Alfred did not sound very convinced. Leaving the fresh batch of cookies, he went back to working with Jason on the cookie batter. Raven and Tim chuckled softly in amusement.

“Titus!” Damian called again, this time gaining the attention of everyone in the kitchen. The dog in question raised his head in acknowledgement before lying down again and staring up at Raven.

Bruce looked over the counter and watched the dog in surprise. He looked up at Raven with a hint of amusement. “Looks like Titus has taken a liking in you,” he commented.

“More like a huge dog crush,” Jason added, smirking over this shoulder.

Damian huffed and crossed his arms, frowning at the group. “It’s likely that he senses her demon heritage and keeps watch to protect us,” he said, annoyance laced in his voice.

“Damian!”

“Hey!”

“Rude, you brat!”

Bruce was clearly disappointed and angry while Tim looked furious. Bruce frowned at his son and placed his piping bag on the counter. He crossed his arms in disapproval, an action Damian immediately mimicked. Reindeer apron or not, an angry Bruce Wayne is a scary Bruce Wayne. “Apologize, Damian,”

“Why? She is half-demon,” Damian sniffed and frowned, frustration bubbling low underneath his skin. “I’m sure Titus senses this. And I honestly do not understand how you can allow Drake to –”

“Finish that sentence and I swear I will smack you into next week,” Tim scowled, fist tightening on top of the marbled kitchen island. Raven could feel old emotions surface as the boys glared at each other and she frowned.

“I could help take Titus on a walk with you?” Raven said suddenly, knowing well that Damian was not going to apologize anytime soon. His frustration and resentment were coming off him in waves. She placed her hand on top of Tim’s arm, trying to calm him down.

“I don’t need your help,” Damian bristled.

Raven rolled her eyes at the haughty attitude. Ignoring Damian, she handed Tim her pipping bag and shot him an assuring smile. She removed her apron and placed it on the table, before turning to Damian. She tilted her head and raised her eyebrow in challenge. “Really? Not unless you want to clean up Titus’ pee later, I think you’re stuck with my offer,” she said.

“Raven,” there was a hint of worry and confusion in Tim’s voice. Raven shrugged and leaned up to kiss him on his cheek. “It’s alright,” she whispered and squeezed his forearm reassuringly. She waved off Bruce as he glanced at her.

Turning on her heel, she looked at a fuming Damian, displeased at the idea of being bossed around. “Wait for me at the door, I’ll go get changed,” she said. Ignoring Damian’s protest, she walked out of the kitchen with an eager Titus hot at her heels. Damian stopped out soon thereafter.

Jason blinked; astonishment written all over his face. “Well shit, that took a weird turn,”

Raven met up with Damian at the large front door. The boy was still frowning into his dark blue fluffy scarf when she approached and made no acknowledgement when she stood by him. Titus appeared by her feet, oblivious to the jealousy he had caused. “Ready?” she asked.

Damian sniffed again and silently hooked Titus to his leash and the trio stepped out into the cold. The leash wasn’t really necessary and as they would step further out into the forest, Damian would release Titus from the leash. The dog was trained enough to follow commands.

They were walking silently towards the large frozen lake, keeping close to the edge of the woods for Titus to sniff along and do his business. The silence between them was palpable, Raven could feel Damian’s storm of emotions. She watched as Damian released Titus from his leash and they followed him through the snow as he happily sniffed at snowy bushes and tree trunks.

“There is no need for you to accompany us,” Damian said, voice laced with a frown as he walked ahead of Raven.

Raven stuffed her hands deeper into her winter jacket as a cold breeze passed them. She hurried to keep up with Damian and walked next to him. She shrugged her shoulder dismissively and offered him a small smile. “It’s alright, I don’t mind the company,” she said.

“I do,” Damian frowned. Of course, ever the brusque one.

They stopped as Titus stopped by a bush a little up ahead. They were close to the completely frozen lake, they could see old dock and the outline of a few people walking by the lake from the distance. A few snowflakes started to fall as winter continued with is below zero temperatures. They watched Titus do his business in the snow.

“I’m sorry about this whole ordeal with Titus,” Raven said, glancing at the scowling boy.

Damian spared her glance; eyebrows draw into a perpetual scowl. “He senses the demon in you,” he said.

The corner of her lips quirked just a little bit and there was a bemused look on her face. “Well, I think you’re right about that,” she said. Damian continued to stare at her with a mixture of mild surprise and anger. They heard Titus make snuffling sounds as he buried his nose into the snow. “Some animals are quick to catch on meta-physical psyche,”

“To sense a threat,” Damian supplied.

“Sometimes,” said Raven. She glanced at Damian, sensing a mix of emotions. “They also get attached or curious. I’m pretty sure Titus is just curious after sensing a new presence in the house. He seems to be very loyal to you,”

She could see Damian move and some of the tension leave his face. She offered a small smile at the frowning boy. “I’m hardly a threat,” she added finally, her voice soft in the cold wind.

Damian swallowed and briefly glanced at Titus, who scampered towards him for pets. Looking up at Raven, his frown softened ever so lightly. “I apologize if it sounded like I was implying that,” he mumbled, his voice sounding just a little strained as if apologizing was not something he commonly did.

Raven hummed. “It’s alright. We always try to be protective over the ones we care for,” she said.

Damian cleared his throat. Looking away, he turned his attention back to Titus. It seemed like that conversation was now over. Raven would settle with whatever she could get from the boy.

They continued to watch as Titus enjoyed the snow, sniffing at the bushes and barking at stones. The silence was soon pierced with the sound of a loud crash and something heavy hitting ice and water. Louds screams filled the air.

Raven and Damian straightened, alert. They watched as the wooden docks gave way and parts of it disappeared into the lake. A name rang through the air, and they watched the outlines of two people wave frantically by the shore. Someone had fallen in.

Raven shoved her phone into Damian’s hands as they started with a run towards the lake. “Call Tim and the others. We need to help now,”

Damian scowled. “You’re not going in there. I can –”

Raven stopped and glared at Damian, halting the boy. Her Titan authority suddenly taking over, and she frowned. “They need help. That water is below zero, do as I say, now.”

She barely heard Damian make the call as she sprinted towards the couple, adding a little bit more force into her run. She couldn’t teleport, that would have been a risk to her identity and the rest of the family. She could do this rescue manually.

“My name is Rachel. What happened?” Raven breathed, reaching the couple by the docks. It was a middle-aged man and woman, both looking frantically at the remains of the docks. There were shrill cries coming from the middle of the lake, just past the remaining wooden beams of the docks.

“Maggie!” breathed woman, frantic. “The whole docks gave way and she fell in!”

The man, who looked like he was in a middle of a phone call with the fire department shot her a frantic look. “She’s five!”

Raven pulled off her bonnet, gloves, and scarf and thrust them to the frantic woman. “Here, she’ll need these when we get back,” she said. Not sparing another glance at the frantic couple, Raven took a running start towards the remaining wooden beams and jumped, easily landing on the standing wooden beam. It creaked under her weight, and she ignored the sounds of water and ice hitting the beams. The beam lurched as she shifted her weight to jump to the next support beam, nearly slipping on its frozen mossy surface.

She heard water splashing and weak cries for help up head. Raven knew she had to pull out the girl soon before hypothermia would set in. Jumping onto the last few support beams that stood out at odd angles in the freezing water, Raven stopped at the last one that leaned heavily to the right, barely above water. There was still about three meters of a distance between Raven and the little girl with some wood floating in between them. There was no way to pull her in from where she stood. She had to swim towards the girl. Well, fuck.

“Help!”

“Maggie!” Raven called, heart pounding in her chest in anticipation of the freezing water. She hated cold showers. This was going to be terrible. “I’m coming for you. Don’t worry!”

“Help,” Raven heard the little girl whimper. With a sharp intake of breath, Raven carefully slid down the upturned support beam and plunged into the icy water. She gasped as her muscles initially froze at the icy sensation. Her chest seized at the freezing temperatures and the wind momentarily knocked out of her. Holy fucking shit. Raven screwed her eyes shut and willed her muscles to move as cold water slapped her face. Hearing the soft whimpers up ahead, Raven pushed forward and quickly swam towards the girl.

“Maggie, hold on,” Raven called, she swore she felt her teeth clatter in the cold. Using a bit of her powers, she swam faster through the water, knocking away the large planks in her way. Raven panicked as the whimpers seemed the grow softer as she approached and Maggie seemed to slowly sag against the large wooden plank she had been holding on to.

“Hey, hey, hey, hey!” Raven surged forward and watched as the little girl seemed to have fallen asleep and slip into the water. Gasping, Raven lurched forward and dove straight into the water. Spotting the small pink body in the murky lake water, Raven quickly grabbed the little girl and broke through the surface gasping for air.

“Maggie, hey, Maggie,” Ignoring the biting cold and how her winter clothes weighed her down, Raven wrapped the little girl closer to her body and patted the girl’s bright rosy cheeks as she spluttered and gasped against her shoulder. Raven allowed the little girl to gasp and recollect herself against her shoulder and she listened to Maggie whimper and wheeze loudly.

“I got you,” Raven whispered and wrapped her arms tightly around the little girl. Craning her neck, she faced Maggie and pushed wild red curls away from the girl’s face. “Hey, I’m Rachel. Let’s go back to shore, okay?”

“It’s so cold,” the little girl whimpered, and Maggie’s arms tightened around Raven. She began to sniffle and cry softly. “I want mommy,”

Raven continued to thread in the freezing water, keeping herself and the little girl afloat. Rubbing her hand soothingly across the girl’s back, she nodded. “Your mommy’s back on shore, we’ll get you there in no time,” she assured. Looking over the girl’s shoulder, she caught sight of the frantic parents back on shore. Damian was with them talking on the phone with an alert Titus at his feet. She waved her hand in the air. “Got her!”

It was a bit of distance from where they were to the shore with a thin sheet of ice covering the lake water. She would have to break through the ice as she’d swim towards the shore. It should be easy enough, Raven thought. The little girl shivered into her neck as Raven started to swim to shore, pressing the little girl into her.

“It shouldn’t take us too long,” assured Raven, as she used her right hand to push them through the water. The little girl pressed into her chest, whimpering in response. Using her fist and forearm, Raven punched into the thin layer of ice as she pressed through the ice. “You’ll get lots of hot chocolate after this,” Raven assured. “That sounds good, right?” her voice strained slightly at the cold. Her body groaned in protest as the icy water continued to stab her muscles. The little girl nodded into her neck and whimpered. Good, at least she was still pretty responsive.

“Rachel!”

Raven looked up from pressing through ice to watch Tim, Dick, Bruce, Cass, and Jason rush towards where Damian and the parents were. Cass and Tim were carrying heavy blankets while Jason was carrying a rescue buoy.

“Hold on!” Jason called from shore. Raven stopped swimming and watched as he twisted his body and forcefully threw the rescue buoy across the lake. The red ring was attached to a rope and Raven watched as it flew through the air before dropping onto the ice and skidding towards her. Using her powers discreetly underwater, she helped the buoy slide towards them. “Got it!” she called as her cold fingers wrapped around the red ring.

“Here, Maggie,” she shifted the little girl and slipped the ring securely around Maggie’s shivering form. “I need you to wrap your arms the ring, okay?” Raven watched as the little girl whimpered and she swam closer to the buoy and wrapped her arm around the girl’s shivering form. “You got this. I’m right here, I’ll push us through. My friends are going to pull us back to shore, okay? I’ll break through the ice so it’ll be easier for us, okay?” Raven pushed some red curls from the girl’s face. “Ready?”

“Okay,” Maggie whimpered. Not really wanting to waste any more time, Raven nodded and turned back to Jason and the rest. She tugged the rope. “Go!”

Raven felt Jason tug the rope and they lurched forward easily. Keeping her hand firmly pressed into Maggie’s back, Raven swam next to her and used her arm to press through the thin layer of ice to avoid any hard ice hitting the little girl. Her muscles groaned in protest and the felt the ice bite her skin.

“Maggie, baby!”

Raven groaned and pushed the buoy with a little bit more force as they closed in on shore and her feet started to feel the ground. Maggie started crying again at the sight of her parents and with a low grunt, Raven pushed the ring forward to shore. She heard Bruce bark out orders to grab the girl and Raven’s legs slipped under her as she pushed the girl towards the shore and within reach to a waiting Jason and Dick.

“Oh my god, my baby. Thank you so much, thank you. Oh Maggie!” Arms were flying around as everyone made a grab for the little girl and the mother continued to sob in the rush. Raven slipped in the water as she lost her footing and her knees hit the ground. Weighed down by her clothes and her frozen limbs, Raven clambered back to her feet and gasping for breath as the cold seemed to finally register.

“Rae,”

She felt gloved hands wrap around her wrist and pull her out of the water. She gasped as the cold air seemed to bite into her body. She tumbled into a warm solid body and her arms instinctively wrapped around Tim, immediately recognizing his warm press of emotions and his scent. She shivered as arms wrapped around her and a heavy blanket was pressed around her. She felt hands rub up and down her back as she continued to shiver into Tim. “Maggie,” she whispered, trying to look over Tim’s shoulder to where Bruce was assisting the parents. She heard muffled crying and the distant sound of an approaching ambulance.

“Maggie okay,” said Cass, hands pressed into Raven’s back to keep the blanket from sliding off her shoulders as she and Tim tried to rub some warmth into Raven.

Tim’s fingers dug into her body and he pressed her closer. “They’ll be okay, you did great, Rae.” He whispered and pressed a kiss into her cold temple. “Let’s get you back home for a hot bath,”

The trek back to the house was a blur to Raven as Tim and Cass practically pushed her back to the house with Damian and Titus on their heels while Dick, Jason, and Bruce remained by the docks to help the family and talk to the lake management regarding the docks. Cocooned in the warmth of the thick heavy blankets, Tim gently steered her into their large bathroom, warm already from the hot bath that Alfred may have already drawn for her.

“Strip,” Tim said after closing the door behind him and gently peeling off the blanket from her body and unzipping her drenched jacket. Raven hummed in protest at the cold, but lethargically complied as her healing powers slowly worked on healing her from the cold that seemed to have seeped into her bones. She shivered when warm hands pressed into her bare shoulders and hip, directing her into the excessively large bathtub.

“I’m fine,” she grumbled but allowed herself to be gently pushed into the tub. Tim snorted, sounding very unimpressed and helped her climb into the tub. Raven sighed loudly as the comfortably hot water wrapped around her freezing body and she instinctively closed her eyes and allowed herself to sink lower into lavender scented bubbles. Her tense muscles eased, and she slowly felt the cold leave her as she leaned comfortably against the tub and allowed bubbles to tickle her nose and chin.

“I’ll go get you some tea,” Tim said, and Raven heard him stand up from where he sat momentarily on the tub ledge, just watching her. She cracked open her eyes lazily, muscles more relaxed and significantly less cold as she watched him stand and make his way to the door.

“Aren’t you going to join me?” she asked, her gaze drifting over the bubbles and watching Tim curiously.

Tim blinked as his hand settled at the doorknob. He raised an eyebrow at her, lips curling up lightly, and the worry that settled around his shoulders lifted a fraction of an inch. “My entire family is downstairs, Raven,” he said, tone light. “I’ll get you some tea,”

Raven rolled her eyes and raised her right hand out of the water, lazily draping it over the ceramic tub and beckoning him to come closer. Lavender scented bubbles slid down her hand and onto the floor as she waved her hand in a beckoning motion. “I’m not asking you to have sex, Tim,” she said, rolling her eyes. “Though, it’d be a nice reward,” her eyes danced in amusement as Tim snorted.

“Come sit with me,” her hand slipped back into the warm water, and she slid a little deeper into the tub as her muscles groaned in protest. “Please?”

Caving at her request, Tim smiled and made quick work to lock the bathroom door. Raven lazily watched him take off his clothes, silently appreciating the way his muscles moved at every movement. Tim caught her triumphant smile behind the bubbles and he playfully rolled his eyes as he approached the tub. “Shut up, you,” he murmured playfully and gently nudged her forward to slip into the tub behind her. Water sloshed around in the tub dangerously as they settled in together and Tim leaned against the tub wall, gathering Raven in his arms. They both released content sighs.

“What a morning,” Tim breathed into her hair while gently running his fingers along her arm.

Raven hummed in agreement. She shifted in his arms, her fingers curling into his biceps. “I hope the little girl will be alright,” she whispered.

“I’m sure she’s fine. B was there to take care of everything.” Tim said. He leaned forward and kissed her temple, pleased to find that she had significantly warmed up. “You did great,”

She hummed again, silently glad that she decided to go on that walk with Damian and Titus. Who knew what might have happened to Maggie? Allowing the warmth of the bathwater and Tim’s presence to wrap around her, Raven felt herself slowly relax and settle comfortably against Tim’s chest as the last of her adrenaline left her body.

“I think I deserve a reward,” Raven hummed, fingers curling into Tim’s biceps as she leaned into him. Her emotions purred lowly, still coming off the adrenalin and looking for a little release. Arching into him just the right way, she felt his body respond immediately and his thighs pressed into her hips.

“Raven,” Tim said warningly, knowing full well where this was going. He felt her shift against him, soft curves brushing against his thighs and chest. A soft warmth immediately pressed low in his abdomen, and he sighed softly into her hair and squeezed her shoulders.

“What?” Tim could hear her smile in her voice. Digging his fingers into her shoulders as he kept her wrapped close to him, he pressed a kiss to her temple. “My family is downstairs,”

Raven hummed and titled her head up, a languid smile stretched across her lips as she knew she already won. She felt his erection press into her lower back, and she eagerly pushed her ass into him. “The silencing spell is still up,” she whispered and pressed a soft kiss underneath his chin.

“Raven,” Tim sighed as his resolve broke when he felt her move against him and press another tantalizing kiss into his neck. He groaned as Raven stretched across his chest, placing her head onto his left shoulder, and her breasts teasingly peaking out of the water. Releasing his hold around her shoulders, his hands slid down her chest and gently cupped her breast, fingers sliding over hard buds. He heard Raven sigh in pleasure, head tipping back in delight.

“I’m not sure if sex in a bathtub is safe,” mumbled Tim and watched Raven close her eyes, relishing the soft ministration across her breasts. Nimble fingers slid over her nipples, stroking and tweaking the hard buds. He listened to her sigh in pleasure and he eagerly watched the emotions on her face – he always enjoyed watching her openly show her emotions, it was a thrill to watch knowing only he could milk these ripples of emotions from her.

Raven released a soft sigh and looked up at Tim with hooded eyes. Shifting in his arms, she spread her legs underwater and draped them over his toned legs. The tub was wide enough for enough movement for both of them. Arching into him and relishing the tantalizing feeling of being spread out in front of him to do as he pleased, she felt heat pool low in her abdomen. “I’m sure we can do enough,” she mumbled. She sighed as one of his hands slid down her stomach and teasingly trekked towards her center. She released a soft keen as his hand cupped her fully, fingers pressing into her and she jerked into his hand. As fingers began to softly stroke her, she gave him a languid smile. “And if we’re not yet done, you can bend me over the sink and fuck my brains out,” she said teasingly.

Tim groaned, his last strands of restraint breaking at her teasing. Feeling his blood roar, Tim slid his hand up her neck and tilted her head for a greedy kiss. It was sloppy and hot as tongues slid against each other at the strained angle and Tim eagerly drank every whimper and groan that he milked from her. His fingers underwater worked their magic, slipping into her hot center and stoking a hot fire within her.

Raven bucked into his hand, eagerly chasing the pleasure and release and teasingly brushing against his own hard erection. Raven released a soft keen, as she felt Tim’s fingers dance all over her body, stroking her heat and pushing her gently towards the edge. Being so openly splayed in front of him – legs spread wide over his strong legs and her back pressed into his chest – and allowing him to stroke, probe, nip and twist as he pleased simply burned her heightened emotions. It was a sin how well he knew how to draw out every last bit of desire from her.

“Ah, Tim,” she whispered, as teeth scraped hungrily against her pulse point and two fingers eagerly stoked a burning fire within her. His nimble fingers were magic.

She tittered so closely to the edge, her adrenaline and emotions sizzling under her skin, as Tim expertly drove her towards oblivion. “Please,” she whispered and screwed her eyes shut as her sensations went into overdrive – warm water lapping against her heated skin, fingers pushing her over the edge, and teeth scraping over her skin.

Tim released a soft groan, unable to hold back as his own desires seemed to sizzle dangerously underneath his skin. With low growl and curse, he pulled out his fingers from her and ignored the whimper of protest. Sitting up, he pulled her up with him and wrapped his arms around her waist and hoisted her up his chest and with a few quick movements – water sloshing over the tub – he took his throbbing member and slipped into her, reverse cowgirl style.

“Fuck,” Tim growled into her hair and listened to Raven’s soft keen of pleasure as his grip around her waist tightened and he pumped into her, stroking her hungrily and catching her own erratic thrusts. Their thrusts were hurried, each roll of their hips hungrier than the last, as they tittered so dangerously close to the edge of no return.

Raven released a strangled cry as fingers danced over her clit and her movements melted into erratic thrusts. She felt her whole body erupt into an inferno as her adrenaline stoked her desires and continued to feed of Tim’s own pleasure. She felt her whole world disappear as she tumbled over the cliff and her whole body seemed to erupt in inexplicable pleasure as Tim expertly steered her through the inferno.

Tim came quickly with her as his world exploded and he released loud moan into her neck, Raven’s name a soft mantra against her skin as he continued to pump into her and extended their high. Their movements were frantic and sloppy, as they milked every last inch of pleasure.

The world seemed to slowly come back to her as Raven slumped against Tim in exhaustion, her emotions purring and the heat in her abdomen so pleasantly warm and sated. She gasped, catching her breath and listened to Tim’s own labored breathing.

Tim wrapped his arms around her and carefully slipped out of her, shuddering at the sensation of loss. He carefully wrapped her in his arms, they settled comfortably against the tub, both trying to catch their breath and allowing their heartbeat to come to normal.

“Told you we could do enough,” Raven whispered teasingly, fingers wrapping around his forearms that settled across her chest and she gave him soft squeeze.

Tim chuckled and pressed a soft kiss to her temple. “My knees are on fire,” he commented breathlessly. He kissed her cheek at her amused chuckle. “Totally worth it though,”

“Let’s see if we can try the bathroom sink tonight,” he added playfully as an afterthought.

[jamie-reid]

TASK TWO: FAMILY TREE/CHARACTER RELATIONSHIPS

FAMILY — BLOOD IS THICKER THAN WATER

John Reid (Liam Neeson) — Father

Jamie has always been a daddy’s girl, finding far more in common with him than her mother. With many creative talents, John left for New York City after the divorce and never looked back. Leaving behind his life as owner of the Harborside Inn, he instead pursued a career in film and photography. Even now, him and Jamie are close and take trips to visit one another as often as humanly possible. 

Patricia Reid (Jane Seymour) — Mother

Patricia was born into a religious household and was sure to instil a lot of the same beliefs within her own. She has a striking personality and a very strong sense of right and wrong. Although she means well, she can often be a little overbearing and protective. She absolutely adores Jamie and her granddaughter, though managing the Inn is easily one of her top priorities. 

Kennedy Reid (Abigail Breslin) — Daughter

Kennedy is Jamie’s second-born, though in a lot of ways, she feels like her first. Daughter of Jamie and her ex-husband, she remains close to both parents despite the divorce. She has a bright and energetic personality, reminding Jamie of herself in so many ways. She absolutely loves motherhood, but often worries about being too much like her own.

The Great Wonder (UTP) — Son

Product of a teenage pregnancy, Jamie’s son was taken from her after only five minutes on Earth. To this day, she holds a lot of resentment towards her mother for forcing her to give him up for adoption. Not a day goes by that she doesn’t sit and wonder who he is or what he’s doing. 

Quinn Newman (Elizabeth Olsen) — Cousin

Related to Jamie on her father’s side of the family, Quinn is like the younger sibling Jamie has always wanted. Despite their rather large age gap, these two have always gotten along. From life advice, to taking the kitchen by storm, they are always onto their next adventure and have helped each other in a lot of ways. 

FRIENDS — THE FAMILY YOU CHOOSE

Johanna Malcom (Bethany Joy Lenz) — Best Friend

Johanna is Jamie’s ride or die. In a lot of ways, she is more like a sister than a best friend. Having first met in church choir, this duo has been inseparable ever since. 

Marcus Turner (Jesse Williams) — Best Friend

After meeting during one of Marcus’ summers in Mystic, these two became quick friends, bonding over their travels back and forth between Connecticut and New York. He is the closest thing she has to a brother and somebody she can always rely on. 

Camila Flores Garcia (Jessica Alba) — Mom Friend

Although she is one of her newer friends, Jamie can’t think of a life without Cam in it. Nobody else in her life can relate to the struggles of motherhood like she can, or make her feel better about her parenting skills.

ROMANTIC — THE ONE(S) THAT GOT AWAY

Damien Shaw (Bryan Greenberg) — Baby Daddy

Jamie and Damian met during one of her summer trips to New York City. He was her first love and the first person to make her feel a desire to be intimate. After finding out that she was pregnant, Jamie’s mom sent her on the first plane back to Mystic without any word to her boyfriend about the baby or her departure.

Samuel Brennan — Ex-Husband/Kennedy’s Father

Her partner of over a decade and Kennedy’s father. They have been divorced for about two years, though they remain in contact for their daughter’s sake.

[ragingbookdragon]

Forging Paths PT. 5

Batsis Story!

A/N: I mean, in my defense, this was the first story I’d ever written before even looking at the comics. This is all based on pure imagination and DC movies, so I think I actually did fairly well. -Thorne <3

Dick stood off to the side next to Jason as he put on his uniform. Glancing up towards (Y/N) walking over he turned to Jason. "Do you really think it was a good idea to bring (Y/N) in?" Jason peered at him from the corner of his eye as he adjusted his arm guards.

"To help fight? Yes. To get her and the old man to reconcile? No." Dick lowered his head and stared at his hands.

"Yeah, that's what I was thinking." Jason slammed the locker door closed, making Dick jump and glance at him.

"Look Dick, I'm gonna be real with you for few minutes. I know that as the oldest, you take it upon yourself to make sure everyone is in the right place and that were all connecting, and we appreciate it. But (Y/N) and Bruce? It's not going to happen anytime soon. She's got so much rage and resentment inside her-it makes my little bitch fit with Bruce look minute. She's not going to let any of that go until she's buried six feet under." Dick stared at Jason and inhaled deeply before nodding his head.

"It's my fault; I should've noticed (Y/N) going through it all when she was younger. But I was so concerned with making Bruce and everyone else happy that I didn't even see it." Jason placed a hand on Dick's shoulder causing him to look up at him.

"It's not your fault Dick. (Y/N) didn't let anyone in for a long time, not even me. She learned early on how to hide it all and paint a smile on her face. But I can tell you, she appreciates everything you tried to do for her." Dick smiled as (Y/N) reached them.

"Am I interrupting something?" The three of them laughed.

"Nah big sis, just some man talk." (Y/N) stared at Jason before responding.

"That can be interpreted so many different ways. I'm hoping it's not what I'm thinking." Dick reached over and thumped her on the forehead.

"Mind out of the gutter little sister-we keep our locker room talk strictly to the locker rooms." (Y/N) snorted at him. "Moving on. What kind of costume is that (Y/N)? There are no details at all." (Y/N) rolled her eyes.

"Oh I'm sorry, let me just grab my scaly green panties. Oh wait never mind, let me get the suit with the golden feathers and the high collar." Jason snorted as Dick began pouting and grumbling a mixture of, 'my suit was cool, stop hating, it was also the 80s so you can't really blame me.' "I don't need a fancy suit to take criminals down Dick. Solid black allows me to be stealthy." Jason nodded his head in agreement.

"She's got a point Golden-boy." Dick waved his hands and rose to walk over towards Tim and Damian, who were currently in the middle of an argument about what was better: Lord of the Rings or Harry Potter. (Y/N) walked over to her old motorcycle and sat down, turning the key in the ignition and starting it up. Jason stood beside her. "I saw the two of you. Everything good?" She stared at him from under her mask.

"Dandy." She rolled her eyes and placed her hands on the handlebars. "Oh yeah, Jason?" He looked at her.

"Yeah?" She smiled at him. He didn't like that smile, it meant he was in trouble.

"I hope you can run fast kid-brother. Because as soon as this is over, I'm coming to find you." With that, she was gone, speeding out of the tunnel and out into the city. Jason stood for a few moments before turning around and walking towards his own bike.

"I fuckin' hate my life."

(Y/N) parked her bike in an alley before grappling up to the ledge of the building. She ran across the rooftops until she came to the edge of the last, before a set of warehouses sat before her. Crouching down, she pulled out her binoculars and began scanning the area. "They've got armed guards carrying M-16s patrolling the area, two per team, and five teams in total. Three warehouses, two opened with League members coming and going. The other is locked up, but thermal scans show that it's full." She put down the binoculars and glanced over her shoulder. They moved to crouch beside her. Damian looked at her.

"How'd you know we were here?" (Y/N) closed the binoculars and put them away.

"I've been doing this longer than you've been alive kid. I'm good at what I do." She glanced at him on her left. "So how are we playing this Batman? Stealthy? Or guns blazing? Cause I can do both." He narrowed his eyes down at the area.

"Stealthy. You and Robin take out the patrollers, and then hit the first open warehouse, then the second." She narrowed her eyes scrutinizing him.

"Where are you going to be?" He looked at her for a moment before pointing to the last warehouse.

"Talia's in there. I'm putting an end to this tonight." She and Damian shared a look before she spoke again.

"I think you should wait for us. I know Talia's beatable, but she'll have an army of her elite members in there. You're good Batman but this is risky." Damian nodded along in agreement. Bruce shook his head.

"I need the two of you down there taking care of everything else. If we immediately go in, we risk everyone from the other warehouses rushing in and then we'll really be in trouble." (Y/N) looked down at her feet. She hadn't even thought about that. More concerned with thinking that he just wanted the ability to say he took down Talia and her elite. She inhaled sharply before speaking.

"Understood. Robin, on me. Take out the two teams on the west-I'll take the east side. Meet me on the south and we'll take out the last team before hitting the first warehouse." Damian reached his grapple and nodded.

"Understood." They moved to go their ways when Bruce gripped their shoulders. They both looked back, suspicious.

"This is not a game. Be careful." Damian rolled his eyes and nodded leaping down to the street. (Y/N) stood for a moment with her shoulder still in Bruce's grip staring at him, then she shook him off and followed Damian. Bruce stood there watching the two of them, feeling a bitter prick in his chest, then sealed it away and grappled to the last warehouse.

If there was one thing she was good at, it was the ability of never being seen. Chalk it up to good luck I guess. She thought as she snuck up behind the first team. Swinging out an arm, she struck the first guard in the neck, dropping him to the ground. He's down and out. The other, still dazed at how fast she was, wasn't all that much trouble as she brought her palm up under his chin, then slamming his head into the ground. She heard Damian through the radio as she moved on to the next team. "First team is down, moving to the second."

"10-4 Robin, moving on to the second team myself, see you on the other side." She hid in the shadows of the warehouse and waited until the team passed her, taking them down also. She called Damian and got into position for the drop on the last team. He squatted down next to her.

"Me left, and you right?" She nodded her head and they both jumped.

After the last guards were down they grappled to the roof of the first warehouse. She looked at him. "Stay in the rafters and only take down guards that are alone. We need to take out as many as we can before they realize what's going on." Damian rolled his eyes.

"I can take care of this warehouse on my own. Go to the other." She narrowed her eyes in suspicion.

"Are you sure kid?" He opened the hatch and looked at her.

"I am the grandson of Ra's al Ghul. If anyone can take out a whole warehouse single handedly, it's me." (Y/N) raised her eyebrows at his arrogant attitude. No, not arrogance. Confidence with the skills to back it up. He'll wipe the floor with these guys. The corner of her mouth rose up and she moved to hop over to the other warehouse.

"Alright kid. Show me what the grandson of The Demon's Head can do." Damian grinned at her and for a split second she felt unnerved. It wasn't a grin of a kid who could whoop ass, that was a grin of a cold-blooded killer. Damian hopped down and she closed the hatch behind him before moving to the other warehouse.

She opened the hatch and dropped in, careful to not make noise, she picked a corner and began surveying the room. Twenty-Five guards in total, five armed with auto-weapons walking along the balconies, the other twenty armed with swords and knives scattered along the floor. Take care of the armed ones first then move to the middle. If there was anything she was thankful for from Bruce, it was the fact that he taught her how to choke people out with her legs. The first three guards went down quickly and she moved up to the rafters and walked along the beams to the other side. Two more down. Time to get this party started. (Y/N) enjoyed stealth, but nothing gave her a rush like going up against suicidal odds. Twenty guards armed with swords? She'll take it. She moved to the center beam and stood still for a moment, readying herself. She closed her eyes and inhaled deeply, exhaling slowly. Pulling the guns from the holsters, she was glad Jason had supplied her with concussive rounds. Certainly not deadly, but enough to knock your ass into next week. She cocked the guns, said a Hail Mary, and took a dive. Not taking any chances, she fired as soon as she fit the ground. Her pistols held eight rounds each and if she shot perfectly, she could distract them long enough to get in close and finish it. They had no idea what hit them as they were blown back by concussive bullets before finally seeing a fist or a foot that brought darkness. (Y/N) realized she missed on the last three hits and now, instead of just four people to take down, she had seven. Hmpf, more challenge for me then. Sliding the guns into the holsters, she went into a defensive stance as the first two sword wielders charged at her. Amateurs. She waited until they brought their swords up to swing down at her, and dropped down on her hand, kicking back her feet into their faces before rolling over back on her feet. Two down, five to go. She noticed one particular man standing away from the last four. He's the leader then. The last four went down fast and they stood in front of each other, staring the other down. He spoke first. "You're good Sentinel. Just what I expected from the child of the Batman." She inclined her head an inch.

"Thanks, but I'm not his kid. Now shut up and fight. I want to go home." He chuckled, raising her irritation.

"Your impatience will be your downfall Sentinel." She snorted and pulled out a knife from her leg holster.

"We'll see." She charged at him, dropping at the last second and stabbing outwards. He must have been expecting it because a sword went down beside her, grazing her arm. She twisted around and kicked a leg out hitting the back of his knee, watching as he dropped. She went to stab him again and he turned and deflected her. The two of them separated a few feet and circled one another.

"I have already cut you and you have done nothing. Where is the woman who dropped twenty-four guards like a hot knife through butter?" She glared at him, knowing she shouldn't let him get under her skin. They went in and blades met, him striking her knife away and her managing to wrestle the sword from his grip. Now they were both unarmed. Fists and feet flew rapidly and in a moment of hesitation, she found herself trapped underneath him with his hands wrapped around her throat. She hit and kicked relentlessly, but to no avail. He sat above her and grinned down at her, hands squeezing tighter and tighter.

"Well, well, look at you. You're no match for trained elite from the League. You are weak, and you will die here, pitifully beaten." I can't hold this much longer. Vision darkening, she gathered the last bit of air she had and choked out.

"Not likely." Her hand shot out, flicking her wrist and releasing the blade on it. Metal met the soft underside of his jaw and she rammed the blade up as far as she could, feeling it grind against his skull, before pulling it back. His arms went limp as he dropped over her, dead before he hit the ground. She shoved him off and rolled over, inhaling, then coughing hard as she tried to get air into her deprived lungs. When she finally recovered, she stood and wiped the blood from her face. She stared down at him before spitting and turning to walk out to the entrance of the warehouse. Glancing down at the screen on her wrist, she saw the message, 'Rendezvous on roof'. Inhaling, she looked towards the other warehouse and moved to go to the roof. Pulling herself up on the ledge she took in the brooding man in front of her. One look towards Damian, whose head was lowered, told her all she needed to know. Bruce took one look at her and spoke voice deep like groaning wood, angry.

"Go back to the cave Sentinel." She knew what was coming, the fury that was holding itself back by a thread. She wasn't about to lose this fight. Not anymore. She steeled her emotions and stood up straight.

"We have a mission to complete." Bruce took a step towards her, pointing between himself and Damian.

"We have a mission. You do not. Go back to the cave. Now." (Y/N) raised her head, a haughty look in her eyes, a cold smirk at her lips, as mirthless words fell from her mouth.

"Fine, have it your way. I'll leave." She turned and made her way to the ledge and stopped just before it, and glanced over her shoulder. "But this isn't over yet. This conversation? It's just getting started."

[ranger-jedi-knight]

A New Hero Chap 23

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/20887313/chapters/64491796 Taglist: @bluesimani

Ok, so here’s the next chap!! So I’m going to skip the date scene cause I’d just butcher it but it did happen and it DID go well. I hope you guys enjoy it!! Also, check out my Tumblr for an announcement! Tumblr: ranger-gothamite 

Lana couldn’t help but softly smile with a laugh at seeing Xan’s face as they walked throu Gotham. He had the happiest face ever from how well his date went with Lila on Saturday. Even days later, he couldn’t stop thinking about it. Lila was with them along with Mari, Damian, Kim, and Bee. Haya was busy doing commissions and her Lila, L, had a date but she wouldn’t tell them the name yet since she wanted to see how it went first. Two couples held hands as they walked. Nino and Chloe were doing some last minute stuff and would meet them up after.

“So, Lana,” Bee starts looking at her friend curiously and Lana tilts her head toward her friend. The others are looking at them as well, wondering what Bee was going to ask. “Have you thought about getting a coach?”

“Coach? For what?”

“For your ice skating! You’re really good at it,” Bee said, smiling encouragingly at her friend and Lana grew flustered at that as everyone nodded agreement.

“W-well. I don’t know. I’m not that good. It’s been years since I did a competition. I doubt any coach would want me,” Lana said waving a hand and Bee scowled as she took Lana’s hand and squeezed it.

“You are good. Don’t put yourself down. I’m sure lots of coaches would want you,” Bee said giving Lana a look as the others nodded.

“Ya, Lana! Don’t put yourself down,” Xan replied this time and Lana just gave a one-shoulder shrug.

“I-’ll think about it.” With that they continued walking toward the ice rink since everyone had wanted to do that. Mari shared a smile with Damian and pulled her phone out. Damian let her hand go so that she could message the man that offered to coach her what seems like forever ago. Damian looked at their group as the others talked to themselves while Mari quickly talked to Philippe.

Reaching the ice rink, Lana and Bee sat down to pull on their skates while the others went and rented some skates. Once they were all ready, they went onto the ice and skated around with Kim, Bee, and Lana helping them skate smoothly. “Hey Lana, mind recreating the last routine you did after I...?” he asked and Lana gave Xan a soft look as she nodded agreement.

“Of course. I did dedicate to you,” Lana said, pulling her phone out and pulling up the song. A song Xan was fairly fond of before he was killed and taken. “Play this when I get into position.” Xan nodded and she skated to the center of the rink. She was lucky there weren’t many people out then, and when they saw her they moved to the sides. He pressed play when she got into position, a soft smile grew on his lips when he realized it was ‘My Heart Will Go On’. She glided across the ice, unaware of the camera Mari had trained on her and the crowd.

Xan felt tears stinging his eyes as he watched the dance. Lila squeezed his hand, holding tightly as she wiped away a tear herself, watching as Lana danced with a grief and remembrance of someone she loved. It wasn’t a song dancers typically chose since it had words but she did as a tribute to him. She ended a bit to the side from her start point, her head tilted up looking to the side with her eyes closed, her mouth agape as a hand clutched her shirt above her heart and her other slightly behind her. Her torso turned slightly the way her head was facing, her right leg turned to face in front of her while slightly lifted as if to push her off while her left faced the same way her head was facing, toward Xan.

Xan was the first to class before everyone in the rink started clapping as well. A blush dusted her cheeks as she pushed off to go back to them. Mari was beaming as she slid her phone back into her pocket after sending the video to Philippe. “It was a bit clumsy,” she muttered embarrassed and flustered, You don’t deserve the praise. You’re a fake, a voice that sounded like Steve’s voice whispered into her ear. She hugged herself when she reached them, folding into herself. Bee was at her side immediately, whispering into her ear things that none of them could hear. She nodded occasionally, taking a few deep breaths.

“That was awesome! Mind teaching me some of those moves?” Kim asked, somehow knowing that a distraction is needed for her mind. Lila started nodding as well right as Nino and Chloe arrived on the ice.

“Teach what?” Chloe asked and Kim launched into an explanation of the routine Lana did. Chloe immediately beamed at Lana and nodded eagerly as well. Lana pulled them to the center of the rink to start teaching them, with some of the other people there as well joining in. Xan shared a smile with Mari and Damian at seeing her relax after whatever went throu her head skating back to them after the dance.

~~~~~~~~~~~~(ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧~~~~~~~~~~~~

Duke had a small sideways smile on his lips as he shook his head. “You guys are ridiculous,” he said looking between Jason and Tim while Dick was face planted on the couch exhausted after doing a nightshift at the precinct.

“I resent that. That’s not true,” Jason said with his arms crossed and Duke just gave him a look while Tim snorted. “What!?”

“Nevermind that. Is it true?”

“Oh ya! It’s very true! Damian is dating Marinette! Finally! And, Dick is also dating Alya finally, along with this british FBI agent. They got close it seems while Dick was dating Babs. And don’t ask me about Kon ‘cause I can honestly say I don’t know who he’s seeing. He hasn’t told me and the person is just listed as ‘My Heart’ on his phone with hearts around it. Very cute if I’m being honest,” Tim said with a smile.

“You didn’t hack his phone to see?”

“Hey-!”

“You would! Don’t deny it!” Jason shouted while Dick mumbled his agreement along with a ‘shut up’.

“I’m respecting his privacy. I can do that,” Tim said and the two brothers shared a look before giving Tim a look.

“Couldn’t crack it?” Duke asked and Tim pouted as he looked away.

“He so didn’t. Bab’s probably encrypted Kon’s phone,” Jason replied and Duke nodded.

“So, when do I get to see ‘em?”

“See who?” Dick asked looking up, half asleep.

“You’re boyfriend and girlfriend, Dick. I already know Marinette.”

“Oh, uh…” he trailed off in thought and a yawn left him. “I’ll see,” he mumbled before going back to his nap so that he was ready for patrol that night. The three laughed at that and then Tim turned to Jason with a teasing smile.

“Duke, I don’t think you’ve heard about Jason’s crush,” Tim said in a teasing tone and Jason glared at him. Jason rushed over at Tim who evaded him while Duke looked interested.

“Oh?” he asked, curious since he hadn’t seen Jason crush on anyone in a while.

“Ya! You’ve met or seen Alya before, Dick’s partner at the precinct, she’s come here quite a bit,” Tim started and Duke nodded, he’s certainly seen her in passing, having maybe one or two conversations that lasted minutes because they each had something to do. “Well, she has a younger sister named Lana-” Tim yelped as he ducked under Jason’s arm as it swung at him. But he didn’t need to say any more as Duke was nodding with a smile.

“Ah. I see,” he then grabbed Jason’s wrist as he almost caught Tim’s shirt. Tim scampered behind Duke with a smile and patted his shoulder.

“Yup! Now I have to go! Gotta make sure the board didn’t try screwing over that hotel again!” Tim then ran out of the room and to his car while Jason glared at Duke.

“Not a word.” “Oh, I think the others won’t stop even when you ask her out,” Duke replied with a smirk before heading up to his room to unpack. Jason just groaned and fell onto the couch, Dick somehow being quick enough to keep his legs from being sat on. Once Jason was sitting on the couch defeated, Dick dropped his legs over Jason’s lap. Jason just groaned at that and tried melting into the couch, hoping his embarrassment would leave before someone else came.

~~~~~~~~~~~~(ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧~~~~~~~~~~~~

Melody was humming under her breath as she typed on her computer. A request to the sister hotel to see if they could borrow an employee. Looking up when she heard the door, she was surprised to see that it was the CEO Tim Drake-Wayne. “What can I do for you, Mr. Drake-Wayne?” she tilted her head as she asked the question.

“Just came by to make sure the board didn’t try pulling one over me,” he explained with a smile and Melody returned it with a soft laugh.

“Don’t worry. They haven’t. I think you scared them when you told them of what they did wrong,” she replied and Tim nodded with a smile and the phone started ringing and she raised a finger and answered it. As she dealt with the patreon, he looked around the lobby taking note of how it was simple, but nice. Plants were on both sides of the door, along with a couple in the corner by the front desk. A few landscape paintings covered the wall, along with a Gotham skyline showing the vigilantes-his photograph. He took it a while ago and he could tell what each silhouette was- Batman in front, Robin slightly behind with Nightwing and Red Hood behind them, caught up in a race, Spoiler and Signal high fiving as they jumped a gap after the two with Orphan bringing up the rear.

“You know, that’s one of my favorite photos,” Melody said coming up from behind to stand next to Tim. Tim startled at that but smiled softly as he looked over at her then back to the photo.

“Really?”

“Ya, it’d be even better if it had Red Robin in it too,” she replied smiling at him as she gave the photo one last look before going back to the front desk. “If I could, I’d have this photo, including Red Robin in it, in my house.”

“You like Red Robin?”

“Ya, why wouldn’t I?” she tilted her head a bit confused at his question as she started an email to their maintenance man. “Red Robin is awesome, he saved my life some years ago when I first arrived in Gotham. So I was grateful at first but now I look up to him,” she explained with a shrug, curious about his slightly shocked expression. “Ok, I can understand not knowing why since you are a CEO and plenty busy, but believe or not, a lot of people do like Red Robin.” “Ya, just been pretty busy. Only really seen Batman and Robin memorabilia thou. Nightwing and Red Hood I have seen occasionally but not much,” he admitted with a shrug and Melody nodded with a laugh.

“That is true. But I think it’s more on the concept of Batman and Robin being the dynamic duo who’s been around the longest. I mean, they still sell stuff that looks like the original Robin paired with Nightwing since it’s easy to guess that they’re the same since there was no Robin for a few months after Nightwing appeared,” she replied and Tim had to nod, people even suspect Robin #2 and Red Hood being the same which would be fair.

“Ya,” he whispered with a small smile, knowing that people did appreciate his work as Red Robin even if it wasn’t obvious.

“Since you’re looking around, you could get some coffee or something from the machine,” Melody said looking up as she sent the email before pointing to the machine that sat on a counter running along the wall next to the desk.

“Thanks,” he walked over and made himself some hot chocolate. Going back to the desk, he reached into his pocket and pulled out a card and held it to Melody. “Here, in case the board tries anything again.” He then started toward the door and waved to an employee that was walking back to the front desk.

Mari-aculous @MDC_Designs Having fun at the ice rink with everyone! Apparently Lana is popular right now #awesome #iceskating #icedancing #figureskating #learning *Mari beaming at the camera before turning it to show Lana helping bother her friends and some strangers doing some figure skating moves*

Ok, so here’s the next chap! I hope you guys enjoy this fun little thing showing the characters doin random n havin fun. AND DUKE APPEARS!! Sorry if Duke is a bit OOC, I tried. He seems like a cool character, I literally read a couple wiki type things bout him so this is my best guess of how to do him. And, next chap Duke will meet Alya and Xavier and see the others again! Until next time!! -Love Willa<3<3<3 

[moonlayl]

Gone Too Soon

Word Count: 1526

Canon Death

Tim Drake And Damian Wayne

Canon Compliant

Teen Titans (2011) #18

Hurt and a little comfort

Posted on AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/20076241

Taking Requests

Longing.

Tim never expected to feel this way towards the demon brat. However, he did.

Damian Wayne (formerly Al Ghul) was merely a ten year old boy, and he died. There was nothing anyone could do.

Tim spent so much time despising him, resenting him, not trusting him, and not truly understanding him, he had failed to see the big picture. Damian had only been ten years old.

Sure, he could be an arrogant little shit, and a giant pain in the ass, but just like Tim himself, Bruce, Dick, and even Jason, it was Damian's way of shielding himself.

He just wanted to fit in. He wanted approval. He wanted to be accepted. His own mother disowned him, because he was unwilling to be a pawn in her game.

Damian had abandoned his comforts, and clear future. Had left his entire life behind to be with his father. To be better. To make up for his past crimes. And although he was taught and trained every single day to be an assassin, a ruthless leader, the new Alexander, he gave all that up in a second, to be a hero and to make his father proud.

And Tim had done nothing, except criticize him.

He was such an idiot.

He shouldn't have held grudges. He shouldn't have encouraged the tension between them.

Tim longed for all the opportunities he could've had with Damian.

Now Damian was dead. He sacrificed himself to save an innocent life. To save his brother from his clone his own mother created to hurt him. Emotionally and physically.

He could've been safe. Bruce and Dick would've both went to hell and back to make sure he remained safe. Yet the little brat wouldn't let his family deal with the issues on his own. No, he deliberately disobeyed a direct order to save them. He died a hero, but by then it was too late. He was just a kid.

Kids shouldn't have to sacrifice themselves. Kids shouldn't have to fight for their lives and others. The Justice League and all the other adult heroes were too busy dealing with other threats to recognize the danger their children, younger siblings and proteges, were constantly in.

Tim knew this. He knew this. He created the Teen Titans to help these children. Because if the adults can't take care of them, if the adults can't protect them, they had to be there for each other. protect each other. Care for each other. Like a family would.

Children shouldn't fight wars the adults created. Children shouldn't be soldiers. Children shouldn't be trained to be assassins from birth. Yet here they were.

Tim didn't hate Damian. He never truly did. Sure, he convinced himself he did. He thought he did, but in reality, he didn't. Not enough to wish him dead.

Damian bothered and hurt him a lot, and that made Tim hesitant to try and form a good relationship between them, but even during one of their more unpleasant and painful fights, he never wanted Damian to be fatally injured. Much less, dead.

Tim didn't trust Damian. Not because he thought the kid wasn't trying, but because being wary and cautious around someone with Damian's background, was important in what they did in their everyday lives. ( Also the fact that Damian tried to kill him a few times).

But after everything, Damian was still technically his little brother. Tim had always wanted a younger brother when he was a kid, and when he had gotten one, when Damian had arrived, he dismissed his feelings. Tim didn't even stop to ponder over the fact that he had a younger sibling. He just started noting all the negative ways that impacted him.

And maybe, just maybe, it wasn't entirely Tim's fault. The little demon did make it difficult to get along, and wasn't that the understatement of the century? But Tim also should've put in a little more effort. Tried just a little harder. Like Dick had. He should've tried to break through the walls the kid had put up.

Tim regretted not getting to know the kid a little more. What was his favourite colour?   Blue? Green? Yellow? Did he enjoy reading? Tim didn't even know the kid's hobby and obvious talent in the arts. He only found out when he witnessed Bruce in the library flipping over Damian's sketchbook after his funeral. The look on Bruce's face, regret, pain, grief, was one Tim will never forget.

Tim longed for those days. Those days where he could've done something to get to know Damian. He wished he could go back. He really did. Go back and help the kid. Go back and tell him he's proud because even know it was difficult to notice, Damian had changed. He became better. He started to help others, not because he was told to; not because he wanted to prove himself; not because it would make Bruce proud; but because it was the right thing to do and because Damian wanted to help. Wanted to be a hero.

Tim was skeptical at first. He resented Damian, but the kid he'd seen the last few weeks? The kid that put his life on the line for other? The kid who put the mission first above everything and helped Bruce by giving him things no other Robin was able to? That kid was Robin.

He was worthy of being Robin and being Batman's sidekick.

But Tim couldn't tell him that. His pride and hurt stopped him from saying anything to the kid, even when the kid admitted that Tim was a Robin and was better for the Teen Titans, Tim was still unwilling to say anything. Now it was too late.

Too late to apologize. Too late to start over. Too late to befriend him. To late to tease him, like proper brothers do. Too late to fight alongside him, for he was a formidable partner.

Damian shouldn't have died.

He should not have died.

It wasn't okay.

Nothing about the entire situation, from Damian's mother, to Leviathan, to Damian's clone, was okay.

Damian shouldn't have been there.

Whether it was with Dick or with Bruce, he shouldn't have been put in that kind of danger.

It was unnecessary and unethical.

And Tim was sick of it. He wanted to scream.

It's not fair! None of this was fair! It should've been someone else! Anyone else!

Why did it have to be the ten year old?

Tim wasn't aware that he had been voicing his thoughts aloud to Damian. Damian who was a figment of his imagination.

Tim was crying. Tears streaming down his pale, exhausted face.

Damian was speaking to him.

"Do it Tim." God! That was the first time the kid had called him by his first name. "Do everything you can to protect us."

The child soldier's tiny arms wrapped around Tim's neck.  The grip on him was strong. He hadn't even noticed that he was on the ground.

Tim wasn't aware of how long he was kneeling there, alone with his thoughts in the dark cave, except for the hallucination of his younger brother, because that's what they were. He was cold too, but he didn't care.

Suddenly, the lights flickered on, and Alfred spoke from behind him.

"Master Tim? What on earth are you doing down here in the dark?" He asked.

Tim braced himself, and took a deep breath. He knew it was a strange sight. Him crying in the darkness in the middle of the cave with his arms around nothing.

"I just needed a few minutes alone" he said. "To say good-bye."

Alfred placed a hand on his right shoulder, in a comforting way.

"I understand completely, but if I may, now may not be the best time to bear this burden in solitude."

Tim raised his head and looked into Alfred's sad, misty eyes.

"It is times like this, we need to look to each other  for support and strength" Alfred continued.

"You are right Alfred." Tim tried for a smile. "As always."

He glanced away from Alfred to gaze at Damian, who was watching expectantly.

Alfred asked about the Teen Titans, and whether or not Tim shared his loss with them. Much to his dismay, Tim shook his head, indicating a 'no'.

"They don't really know much about me, to be honest. They don't even know my real name." Tim reluctantly told the older man.

"...You know them more than I," Alfred began, "But if I might suggest? There are  more important things in he world than secrets."

Tim was getting emotional again. He threw his arms around Alfred.

"Thanks Alfred" Tim choked back tears.

Alfred was hesitant at first, but he quickly succumbed to the warm embrace.

"I'm glad you understand you are not alone  in this" He murmured quietly to the shaking boy in his arms.

Tim looked at Damian.

At the innocent, childlike expression on his face.

At the way tears glistened in his eyes, pooling down his green domino mask.

At the shy wave he gave him as he faded away into nothingness.

"Yeah, Alfred. I do."

[shattersstar]

the velvet box

Pairing: Dick Grayson x Reader Featuring: bafamily and co. Excerpt:  The sun was high in the Gotham sky, colouring Dick’s skin a warm tone. The door slammed shut, the noise far off in his mind. Dick followed the clumps of people speaking amongst themselves, entering the large building. The weather really was perfect, for once, as a cooling breeze ruffled Dick’s attempt at neat hair. You always teased him for his messy locks that somehow looked right even at galas and dinner parties. Warnings: angst-ish  a/n: tbh I dont Really know how i feel about this, but nonetheless enjoy 

The blue velvet box had become an extension of Dick, always slipping from pocket to pocket. He kept it close, nearly allowing you to wear jackets that held his little secret. He'd even kept it in his sweats as he lounged around the house. He doubted he'd pop the question over movie marathons he could barely sit through, but he liked having it close. All of that worry seemed so trivial now, almost juvenile as he sat in the limo. It wasn't the first time he'd been in one, but this occasion wasn't one that came every day. Dick couldn't have even imagined being here now, yet here he was.

It felt like all those years ago was when he first met you, hormones swooning and voices cracking underneath the haze of the school gym. The one slow song they allowed at dances played and most kids awkwardly skirted towards the outer edge of the gymnasium. There were a few couples, if they even qualified as such and a handful of friends spinning and laughing. You were amongst those people, doing a dramatic waltz with Dick across the squeaky floor. He wondered if his teenaged brain knew he was in love than. 

The memory faded away as he pulled on the cuffs of his shirt for the millionth time. Damian glanced over as he did it, placing a hand over too Dick’s in silent comfort. It was a nice grounding, a reminder to breathe and all will be okay. No words were exchanged with this action, the other boys didn't eb notice it. Bruce however did, and was pleased Damian pushed passed his resentment for having to be sandwiched between Bruce and Dick for the ride. Although his argument had died on his lips when Bruce reminded everyone that today was for Dick.

The limo pulled to a stop, a moment of nothing before Alfred pulled the door open. Bruce slipped out first, followed by Damian, Tim than Duke. Steph and Cass rode with Barbara, and no one knew is Jason would make some grandiose entrance. The older men waited for Dick to clamber out as well, but there was no movement. “It's okay.” Bruce waved off Alfred, ducking his head back into the car. He extended a hand towards his eldest son, “Come one Dickie.” Bruce’s voice didn't ring with orders, it was soft in a paternal kind of way. Dick took his hand, his body heavy as he shuffled across the seats. The sun was high in the Gotham sky, colouring Dick’s skin a warm tone. The door slammed shut, the noise far off in his mind. Dick followed the clumps of people speaking amongst themselves, entering the large building. The weather really was perfect, for once, as a cooling breeze ruffled Dick’s attempt at neat hair. You always teased him for his messy locks that somehow looked right even at galas and dinner parties.

“Are we late?” Dick asked, looking at his watch. He didn't really think they were, but he wanted to fill the air he forced into silence. “No, we're not.” Bruce reassured, nodding towards Barbara who was talking with Stephanie. Cass waved Steph over and they vanished into the building. Bruce went with them, glancing over his shoulder at Dick.

“How are you?”

“Scared as hell.” He forced a laugh, running his fingers through his hair. He didn't care about it being messy because he knew you wouldn't either.

“You've faced worse.” She smiled, a hand reaching for his.

“Yeah, but I don't wanna mess this up. Y/n–” Dick stopped himself, inhaling as he squeezed his eyes shut. “I just don't wanna disappoint.”

“You won't.” She pulled him down to a hug, sighing softly. Dick straightened his suit, as Barbara raised a brow. He glanced over his shoulder to see his younger brother walking up the steps. “We’ll all be inside.” She said, squeezing Dick’s hand.

Jason walked with his shoulders tucked to his ears, feet light against the concrete. He almost missed Dick standing off to the side. “Uh, hey.” Jason muttered, one eye squinted shut under the sun. “I didn’t think you’d come.” Dick breathed, the taste of anger low in his voice. “Yeah I thought about it, but Y/n kick my ass if I didn’t show, so.” Both men smiled, chuckles escaping into the air. Jason took a hesitant step forward, pulling his brother into his arms. Dick tensed for a moment, but let his preconceived notions float away as he hugged his brother back. Jason whispered something softly, vanishing into the building.  

Dick glanced around as he entered, a sea of familiar and unfamiliar faces alike were watching him. That thought was far in his mind, his brain occupied with the fact he didn't like the building all too much. But your mom insisted on it and who was he to disagree? The chatter was low, soft cries already erupting from the onlookers. Dick swallowed heavily, feet dragging as he walked down the centre aisle. He shoved his hands in his pocket, the velvet box still nestled safely in there. The world drowned out as Jason’s words resonated in his ears, stirring Dick as he approached your casket.

“I’m sorry you had to lose them so soon.”

[docdcarter]

13, 22, 45, 73

OC Asks

13. How many siblings does your OC and what is his/her relationship with them?

Damian has two younger brothers. He isn’t “close” to either of them, depending on your definition of close. With Seth, it’s not for lack of trying. He’s always loved his middle brother and felt an intense draw to protect him, whether Seth wants it or not. He won’t really admit it but there was a point towards the end of high school where he started to resent Seth. His parents became so preoccupied with Seth’s behavior that he felt neglected. Now, in his 50s Damian recognizes that this was childish and selfish, but still sometimes feels that nagging feeling creeping back in. And, by all accounts he should be close to his youngest brother. They both had similar priorities growing into adulthood, but there’s distance there and Damian isn’t sure who created it.

22. Who is/are your OC’s closest friend(s)?

Rowan is probably the person he considers his closest friend. She gives him shit when he needs it and he immediately respected her for it. He affectionately calls her his Work Wife. Ramina is another very close friend. She’s fun and affectionate and Damian is genuinely the most happy when he’s around her.

45. What are some things that annoy your OC?

Other people’s incompetence is a quick way to get under Damian’s skin. Especially at work. He doesn’t have a lot of patience for people who don’t know what they’re doing. He tries his best to bury his annoyance so he isn’t directly rude, but patience in that area is a virtue he picked up.

73. What is your OC’s favorite form of entertainment?

Ever the fucking nerd, Damian reads. He’s got a shelf full of sci-fi and fantasy novels, which are his favorites. When he doesn’t have the energy to read, he likes movie. Same genres.

[aquaburst3]

Since I’m kinda bored, I want to try this as a thought exercise. If in a one in a billion chance I was ever put in charge of a Teen Titans style animated show, this would be the line up and how I would characterize everyone. Like Young Justice, there will be a lot of alterations to characters to make them fit this new universe. 

Robin/Damian Wayne: To start things off, as for why I picked him, let’s face it, Dick and Tim are always the choices for team leaders for the Teen Titans. Hell, I can’t even think of an example of a TV series without either them as the team leader. Don’t get me wrong. Dick will always be my favourite Robin and one of my favourite characters in general, but seeing someone else be the team leader aside from those two would be a nice change of pace. I would still have Dick, Jason and Tim be a part of the show, but as side characters who are apart of Damian’s life rather then being main characters.

On top of that, having the team leader be the son of a great hero and villain would open up more opportunities for stories. Damian would have to struggle a lot more about which side of himself to choose and confront his grandfather. It would also give him the opportunity to grow into a leadership position as the story goes on rather then starting off as a natural at it.  Damian also adds to the theme of having the children of great heroes and especially villains that I’m going for here. 

As for his backstory, it’s pretty similar to what it is in the comics. Damian is the son of Bruce and Thalia, being raised by his grandfather to be the heir to the League of Assassins. His mother shipped him out to be with his father when he’s 14, planning to use him to rip apart Bruce’s plans from the inside. Instead taking his father down, he decides that he wants to change to be worthy of being Batman one day. But Damian has a long way to go, being a smart fighter, but lacking in...well...pretty much everything else. 

When Damian’s 16, Dick pushes him to join his old team as an attempt for him to make friends. This doesn’t go over well, getting into arguments with the other members like Beast Boy, Tempest and especially Zachary Zatana. Due to circumstances, including teaming up with Kaldur and Wally on an unplanned mission, who weren’t members of the other team, he makes up a team on his own that he’s the leader of. No more of Dick’s hand-me-downs. He has his own crew with a similar mindset as him. 

As for how I would characterize him, I would make him like a mixture of s0 and DM Yami from YGO in order to make him more likeable. Far less of a brat and Gary Stu at the start then his comic book counterpart.  Someone who has a conscience and has a good heart, being a caring and loving boy, but his methods of carrying out his actions are messed up due to his upbringing.  He can also be arrogant with a regalness about himself. But as time goes on and he spends more time with the team, he leans more towards the DM Yami side where his true self shines through more often. He calms down on the killing, but he can still be rather prideful, hot-headed and hides his emotions. His messed up side can creep up once in awhile as well. Oh, and he loves to draw and animals. ��

 He also has a far healthier bond with his adopted brothers compared to his comic book counterpart, being the closet to Dick and Jason. However, he feels like he’s in his Robin predecessor’s shadows. He’s not as charming and sociable as Dick. He’s not as street savy as Jason. He’s not as intelligent or good of a detective as Tim. So where does that leave him? 

Also, Zackary Zatara, or Zatana’s younger cousin, is his rival on the other team. They often clash due to their similar and yet different personalities. 

Looks wise, he would have dark olive skin, black hair and brown eyes. He’s still very short for his age, which others tease him about. 

I would age up Damian to be 16. Just so he is a bit older, so that the series can tackle darker stories and has a bit more of a logical explanation for why he’s a badass.  (To be honest, I suck at writing child characters.) 

Aqua Lad/Kaldur/Jackson Hyde:  His origin would be more like his comic book counterpart then his YJ one. Instead of growing up in Atlantis, he’s an half Altantian boy, who grew up in New Mexico. He figures out about his powers during his teen years after he defends his adopted mother from a villain, being discovered by Aquaman before joining the team.    

Characterization wise, like his YJ version, he’s the calm and levelheaded one on the team, who is able to keep the peace between everyone. He took up the unofficial “second in command” roll on the team. Unlike his YJ version, he is less confident, since he’s first starting out. He speaks far less formally compared to his YJ counterpart as well.  

Like his reboot comic counterpart, he’s also LGBT. He takes his looks after his pre reboot counterpart. (So he has black hair and dreadlocks instead of a white fade, but still has dark brown skin and eyes.)  

Red Arrow/ Emiko Queen:  Her backstory is that she’s the daughter of Shado and Oliver Queen, being born back when they were dating and before he found out about Shado’s affiliations. She was raised by her mother to be an assassin just like her. Wanting to find out about the truth about her father, she seeks out Oliver and confirms that she’s his kid, saving him from assassination. Enraged about this, her mother holds her hostage, taking her with her in a helicopter, which was about to explode. She escapes and goes back to live with her father.  Not wanting to get her half-brother’s way, she decides to join the team to carve out her own path. 

Personality wise, she’s headstrong, determined and outspoken, which puts her at odds with her teammates. She is also more methodical and down to earth compared to Damian. 

Kid Flash/Wallace R. West:  To get this out of the way, he’s not the same character as Wally from Young Justice. He’s the son of Iris’ older brother, Daniel West/The Reverse Flash, making him Wally’s cousin. (Comics are confusing) 

Anyways, his backstory is that he was, at first, rebellious and got into trouble with the law a fair bit, resenting Barry for imprisoning his father. It wasn’t until he has a chat with his father, who’s in prison, that he tries to set his life straight again. He teams up with Damian on a mission, deciding to make a new team with him. 

Characterization wise, he’s pretty similar to how he is in the comics or like Jonouchi/Joey from YGO. He’s fun loving and cares deeply about his friends, being serious when he needs to be, but can say thoughtless or careless things and can be quite reckless. 

Looks wise, he has short, black hair; brown eyes and dark brown skin.

Djinn/Layla: A newer character in the DC universe, but I’m changing her backstory. Layla, who has flight, mind reading and spell casting powers, is a Moroccan girl. Her brother forced her to use her powers to further his agenda.  She ran away, using her powers in some small way to make amends for the horrors her magic has wrought. The last thing she wants is for her brother to find her. 

Characterization wise, she’s like a mixture of Raven and Star Fire. She’s optimistic, outgoing and socially clueless like Star Fire, but holds back parts of herself and has done horrible acts in the past that she regrets like Raven. 

[foxydivaxx]

Bad Apple Chapter 2

 “Why did you bother to save me?”

Amon simply smiles at the girl as they float through the air. “Because I realized you and I are the same. We both went through hell and made mistakes and are being judged heavily for said mistakes.”

She stares at him in awe. This same boy that she chastised and bashed earlier for mistakenly murdering someone is now on her side for doing something similar even though she did it in the past when she was much younger. 

“T-Thanks..”

Dick huffs as he walks up the stairs. He had not spoken to Babs in months ever since she found out about his past one night stand with Cassie and also his past relationship with Helena Bertinelli. 

At first, he was saddened by it but as time went on, resentment began to grow within him as he began to realize that Jason was right. Babs was taking things out of context. Besides, why judge him on his past relationships when she has dated a couple guys as well?

Need to settle this once and for all.

He stops at the door and knocks on it. He does not hear a response.

He knocks the second time still no response.

He knocks a third time. Yet still no response.

He raises an eyebrow. Making things sketchier is the fact that Babs did not respond at all. Usually if he knocks, she would at least say something or he would hear some shuffling in the background. But there was so sound. 

Did she head out? He places a hand on the door knob and turns it and is shocked to find it open. He walks in and discovers clothes all over the place and recognises some menswear nearby.

Suspicious, he heads into the room and finds the door slightly open and his jaw drops as he discovers Babs in bed with another man. It all began to make sense to him. Babs never loved or cared for him because if she did, she would not cheat on him like that. She would not be treating him like that and abuse him for months. 

Once he gets over his shock, he bursts into the room, pulls the guy off Babs and punches him hard in the face. “Dick !! Dick!! Stop!!” Barbara yells. Dick growls and pushes her down onto the bed. “SO THIS IS WHAT YOU HAVE BEEN DOING WHILST I WAS AWAY HUH?! SO YOU’VE BEEN CREPEING BEHIND MY BACK YET YOU HAVE THE FUCKING AUDACITY TO CHASTISE ME FOR HAVING FEMALE FRIENDS?! OR EVEN HAVE PAST ROMATIC RELATIONSHIPS? YOU HAVE THE AUDACITY TO ISOLATE ME FROM EVERYONE I LOVE?!!”

Barbara has a fake sad look on her face. “Please...I..I can explain..” It was then that she does something very unexpected, something many warned Dick  about and that was to stand upright as opposed to being an actual cripple.

Dick just explodes right there and lets her have it. “EXPLAIN WHAT?! EXPLAIN YOUR LIES ABOUT THE OTHER GIRLS ESPECIALLY KORI AND CASSIE?!! LISTEN HERE AND LISTEN GOOD!! I HAVE HAD IT WITH YOU AND YOUR BULLSHIT!! YOU NEVER FUCKING CARED OR LOVED ME!! AS I CAN CLEARLY SEE, YOU GOT YOUR LEGS FIXED, YET YOU FUCKING PRETENDED TO BE CRIPPLED TO GAIN CHEAP SYMPATHY AND TRAP ME HUH?!”

He then smirks. “Well guess what? Your evil ends here Babs. It’s over.” With that, he walks out leaving a stunned Barbara behind.

Meanwhile, Adrianna and Adam wait outside for Amon to arrive. They saw the news about Cassie and were just as worried about the girl’s sanity. Sure she did some questionable things but who else hasn’t? 

“I expected a lot from Diana not this.” says Adrianna. Adam sighed. “Communication is key in every single relationship. If one fails to communicate, it naturally leads to unnecessary drama. I have been watching the Team and I have been noticing the hypocrisy that they and the Justice League have been encouraging. Case in point, Rose Wilson. We are meant to trust her. I get that Cassie can be very fiesty and hotblooded but Rose herself has said some nasty things. Yet people excuse her.” says Adam.

Before Adrianna could say anything more, a gush of wind announces Osiris’ arrival as he lands in front of them with Cassie in his arms. “Cassie!!” says Adrianna as she rushes over to the girl and pulls her into a hug. Cassie at first is takena aback by this but soon settles into her embrace and hugs the woman back.

“You ok Cassandra?” Adam asked. The girl looked down. “No. Besides I have no powers whatsoever but it’s ok.“

Adam then turns to Amon. “You should have shared your powers with her.” he says. Amon panics. “I do not want to endanger her.”

Adrianna interrupts them. “Now is not the time to discuss this. Let Cassie heal first before we do that.” she says. Cassie was internally grateful for Adrianna for that as they head into the Palace.

There was a feast laid out for her. Realizing how hungry she was, she begins to eat like a lion. The Adam family chuckles with amusement. “It seems all those strong emotions hungered her.”

“It sure did.” Cassie says between mouthfuls. Once she is done, they lead up to one of the guestrooms where she would be staying.

The following morning, Cassie wakes up and at first panics when she realizes that she does not have extra clothing until she spots what looks like a couple of her clothes. 

Did Tatiana send these somehow?

Before she could ponder some more, Tatiana pops in the room. “Hi twinnie!!” Cassie jumps out of her bed and rushes towards her sister and scoops her itno a big hug. 

“You idiot!! How could you be so selfish?!” Tatiana chastises her. Cassie sighs. “My bad my bad!!‘ They both laughed. 

“Good to see you twins are here.” says Adrianna as she pops her head through the door. “Hey sis, go take a shower. I am thinking that some sight seeing here would do us some good.‘ says Tatiana. Cassie nods. “Ok gimme a minute.“

A couple miles away back in the US, everyone had gotten wind of the Dickbabs breakup. “About time tbh. Babs is a bad influence.” says Raven. “Babs started out nice then she just went bonkers.” says Zatanna.

“Thought it was her PTSD acting up but after what Dick told us about her deceit, I am starting to think otherwise.” says Rocket. “How long has she been acting that way?” Kori asked. “Even I don’t know.” says Helena as she sips some coffee.

All of Dick’s exes plus the other girls on the Team minus Cassie were all seated at Rocket’s house discussing the latest gossip. “Does that girl even have any friends?’ Donna asked.

“Not on this Team or the Superhero community that’s for sure.” says Artemis.”Didn’t realize she was that nasty till Dick told us everything she did to him, more or less confirming everything Cassie said about her.” says M’Gann. “Meaning that Babs manipulated and caused most of the drama with her gossip just so she could keep Dick all to herself.” says Stephanie.

“Disgusting. Totally disgusting.“ says Helena. “But Dick is not trophy. He is his own person and deserves a lot of love and respect. Just like Cassie.“ says Kori. They all nodded. “Well she is in Kahndaq right now and I bet Amon will treat her right. Better than both Conner and Tim ever did.“ says Artemis. 

“Considering the fact that he stopped her from killing herself, makes perfect sense.“ says  M’Gann. Donna smiles. “I am glad that he saved her. That alone proves that he is not half as bad as people made him out to be. He made a little mistake and has been trying to control himself.“ she says. “Besides we have all lost control of our emotions now that I think about it.“ says Kara, getting a harsh reminder of that time she served as a Red Lantern.

Vanessa hadn’t said anything because her guilt was eating her up inside. “W-Why did I allow Babs to get to me? I have destroyed Cassie’s life.” Donna pats her shoulder. “You have to apologise to Cassie but not now. She needs to calm down.” Vanessa nods.

Tim was in his lab, going through some files he managed to recover from Barabara’s system. The more he looks through things, the more disgusted he gets with Barbara. He looked up to this girl yet he allowed her to stir shit up, to manipulate him into hating both Cassie and Amon.

She had broken security protocol by hacking into toher people’s personal laptops and whatnot and uncovering all sorts of private personal information to use as blackmail. Thank goodness Amon saved Cassie from committing suicide otherwise, he would have laid the smackdown on Babs.

And to think that she lied about her paralysis.

He even found evidence to prove that Babs actually secretly did some surgery without anyone’s knowledge. He is sure that Babs would become Batgirl once again and if she ever does, the entire Batclan will come from her in droves. 

Bruce slams his fists onto the table in anger. He cannot believe he allowed Barbara to play all of them like this. He is supposed to be the world’s greatest detective yet he got outsmarted by a devious person like Barbara. 

The fact that she used to be Batgirl does not help matters either. He bets that now that Dick has cut her off, she would become Batgirl. He has already told the rest of the Bat clan to be on the lookout for Barbara and also re-welcomed those he had exiled from the family like Helena and Jason back into the fold.

“It just like the saying goes, the worst pain comes from the family.” says Alfred as he comes down into the Cave holding a tray of hot chocolate with Damian right behind him.

“Is it true what I heard about Gordon?” Damian asked. Bruce does not say anything but simply nods. “That evil tramp. She better go hide because if I find her, I shall tear her to shreds!!” says Damian.

“Language Master Damian!!” Alfred chastises her.

Speaking of Barbara, she decided to leave Gotham for a while so that the uproar would die down. She had done some really terrible things indeed and it is best she leaves and then comes back. 

Commissioner Gordon was already informed and he has basically disowned his daughter because as far as he was concerned, he never raised his daughter to be like this meaning that she was no different from her psychotic brother James Gordon Jr.

My God what have I done?

Still it was too late, the damage has been done. No one would ever forgive her. She almost ruined a young girl’s life with her actions afterall, it was she that told Vanessa and manipulated her into exposing Cassie’s big secret. Anyway, she is leaving town but not for good. 

[strengthrequireskindness]

Revelations

This is a three-part Halloween fic based on a prompt by @quillsareswords! Since I've been inexcusably inactive lately, I hope this makes up for it!

Title is because I have a major thing for biblical references though I myself am agnostic

----

PROLOGUE

Halloween, one year ago

"I can't believe we have to patrol on Halloween!" Jamila threw up her hands as she paced along the rooftop. An hour into their stakeout had yielded nothing. She was not happy about it.

A flash of green heralded the arrival of her younger twin. His trademark scowl was firmly in place.

"Ttt. You would really rather beg for candy in childish costumes?"

"Better than tracking down a murder suspect that hasn't been seen in months. Do you really think he'd go back to his old house? That's practically asking to be caught."

Damian tutted. His cape swished as he made his way over to her. "He's eluded the GCPD for months now. It's likely why Father sent us."

Jamila couldn't argue with that. While Damian was undoubtedly skilled in combat, his occasional arrogance sometimes caused him to overlook things. She was more subdued, preferring to observe and investigate. Although she would fight if it came to that.

As Blackbird and Robin, they were a dynamic sibling duo, as Dick called it. Though not in front of Damian. The last time he'd done so, her brother had insulted his Discowing fashion choices for eight minutes straight.

"Let's review things-perhaps there's something we've missed." If nothing else, it was something to do.

Damian adjusted the sword at his belt, fiddling with the hilt. While Jamila knew steel blades were out of the question, wooden practice swords packed a punch and might even cause a concussion if used correctly.

"I doubt you would have missed anything."

"Is that a compliment from my brother? What is going on? Should I check to see if we're in a parallel universe?"

"Shut up, Blackbird," he muttered.

"Ooh, scary. Anyway, our lucky winner tonight is Godfrey Nash. Five foot nine, brown eyes, blonde hair, slightly overweight. He worked for Wayne Enterprises before being fired two years ago. In May, the bodies of three women were discovered in his apartment. By then, he'd already skipped town."

She paused. "Background checks say Nash has a history of violence. He got suspended in ninth grade for slamming a kid's face into a chain-link fence. He was also fired from his first job for slashing a coworker's tires."

"So we're looking for a psychopath." Damian's eyes narrowed.

"Not necessarily. It's possible he's just very bad at managing anger."

Her twin scoffed. "That's obvious. I did find something at the crime scene."

"Oh?" Jamila hadn't been able to go to the crime scene because she'd been recovering from a scuffle with Scarecrow. Damian had been forced to take over her usual spot.

"Well, it's what I didn't find that is notable. There wasn't a murder weapon or fingerprints."

"What? Weren't the bodies slashed beyond recognition?"

"Yes, but then or since there has been no knife or something similar found."

She sighed. "So possible metahuman involvement, then. That might explain the lack of prints on the bodies."

"Likely, though Croc has been quiet."

"A new player?"

"Newcomers usually go for Father first. We would have heard about that."

As if Damian had summoned him, Jamila's earpiece buzzed. She switched it on, unsurprised to hear Batman's voice on the other end.

Her relationship with their father wasn't as close as Damian's. While Damian had been discovered first by Bruce, it took some time before the man had trusted her brother enough to believe his stories about a sibling.

Her brother and father found her four years after Damian's defection. She nearly killed Bruce upon their first encounter out of fury and resentment. It took a combined effort by her brother and Nightwing to calm her down. Repeated efforts involving the entire Batfamily taught her to trust others.

She'd forgiven him. Both of them were trying to be closer. But she'd never forget the feeling of knowing that help was out there and wasn't coming.

"Blackbird, report." His voice, as always, sounded like he was gargling with gravel.

"No movement from the house, aside from several police officers taking down the crime scene tape. It's been five months since the bodies were found, so that's not suspicious."

She swallowed before making her pitch. "There's been no sign of Nash and we've been here for sixty minutes. May we take a short break to go trick-or-treating?"

"Negative. There's been a development."

Jamila choked down her disappointment before responding. It wouldn't do to complain to her father. Batman was not the kind of man who changed his mind without good reason. "What is it?"

"Facial recognition confirmed the first victim's identity. It's Delilah Dearborn."

"Wasn't she the socialite you took to the charity gala?"

"Yes."

The answer confirmed her growing suspicions. "Father, tell Tim to calibrate the facial recognition software for women you've taken to public events. I know you're busy with Justice League business. But he isn't."

"All right. I'll have him patch into your comms when he's done. Batman out."

The earpiece went dead. Jamila turned to Damian, who was giving her a dirty look.

"Drake? Really?"

"I know you don't like him. He's better at technology than either of us."

"Ttt. Very well." He crossed his arms, looking for all the word like a petulant little boy instead of a badass vigilante. The fact that he was doing this while pacing along the far side of the roof didn't help matters.

There was a beat of silence before he spoke again. "What's on your mind, sister?"

"One of the victims is someone Father took to a gala. I'm following a hunch. Maybe this is more than just anger issues."

No sooner had she finished her sentence than her earpiece buzzed again. One switch directed her to Tim's voice. He sounded equal parts tired and thoughtful.

"Tim. What do you have?"

"Well, your instincts are spot on, as usual." Furious typing echoed from the other end of the line. "I've recalibrated the software. Matches for the other two victims popped up almost instantly. Marinda Ayotunde and Jessica Blake both dated Bruce. At least that's what the tabloids say. And get this-they're both rich and famous. Ayotunde was related to African royalty. Blake was the CEO of Lionheart Solutions. It's a private security firm that protects society's elites."

"So Nash is resentful of Bruce because Bruce's company fired him. He's resentful of wealthy people too?"

"One out of two. Blake wasn't significantly wealthy yet, but she's famous enough to make it into local papers. My guess is Nash doesn't like people who are significant. He deserves to be significant and they don't."

"Would that extend to the Batfamily?"

It was a pertinent question. Tim's answer would reflect how they proceeded. So Jamila was paying close attention to her earpiece when it happened.

Something grabbed at her leg.

It was a strong grip, far too strong to be human. She struggled. The grip held firm. She bit back a scream as she was yanked off the side of the building.

The impact with the top of the dumpster knocked the wind out of her, sending a spike of pain through her stomach. Definitely a bruised rib if not worse.

Enough self-diagnosis, she chided herself. You're under attack.

A growl from behind her caught her attention. She turned, drawing her bo staff off her back. It annoyed Damian that she used the same weapon as Tim. But that wasn't relevant.

One look at the thing in front of her and she knew that her weapon wasn't going to cut it.

It stood taller than six feet, covered in a ragged coat of what seemed like fur. Gleaming claws curled out of its huge hands and feet. Harsh yellow eyes and a long snout completed the look.

Jamila knew what this was. This couldn't possibly be it. In a world where even her grandfather stayed alive for eternities due to science, a werewolf simply wasn't part of the equation.

It opened its mouth and roared. She saw slavering fangs and breath that stank worse than anything she'd ever smelled before it lunged.

The dumpster saved her. As the monster surged forward, she dodged to the side. She slipped behind the green container and shoved it forward.

It caught the wolf square in the chest, but at a price. The heavy weight dulled her reflexes with predictable results. Her foot caught against a stray bag and sent her plunging forward.

She smacked into the pavement, her hands scraping against the concrete. Panic overtook her now and she scrabbled at the ground for purchase.

Jamila pushed herself upright just as the wolf's (she was calling it that because it couldn't possibly have the were portion of the name) claws raked into her right shoulder. She hissed in pain and thrust her bo staff forward with everything she had.

And the wolf caught it.

She stared in disbelief. This thing had just blocked a full-strength attack with no effort at all. It looked at the staff, tilting its head to the side. A growl rumbled outwards, nearly as loud as the blood rushing in her ears.

The bo staff was yanked out of her hands with no warning at all, clattering to the pavement like a broken toy. The momentum drove Jamila forward, and the wolf took advantage of that. It took her injured arm with its free clawed hand and ripped.

She screamed now, blood pooling out of the remains of her suit's right sleeve. It hurt. It hurt so much she couldn't think straight. How did it do that so fast and so effectively? How could she survive this?

Even with pain clouding her sight, she could see the wolf striding towards her with the walk of something that knows it's won. She raised her leg and kicked out, a last desperate defense against what she knew was coming.

The wolf swatted it aside like a bothersome fly.

A deep rumbling laugh echoed from inside it as her vision darkened. She'd heard that laugh on many a surveillance feed. Stakeouts weren't only visual.

"Oh, I like you. Maybe I'll take you after all."

There was a fierce stabbing pain, a sensation like her organs rearranging themselves, then inky blackness.

---

Part Two will be up tomorrow! Thanks again to @quillsareswords for their excellent inspiration for this!

[bigskydreaming]

Couldn't the thing with Jason thinking Dick is infallible from Truth and Justice story come from how he is compared to his brother from Bruce. Even when he was Robin with Dick and Bruce fighting, he was told that Dick was better by Bruce. Then he comes back and is a cautionary tale of what not to and how not to be while Dick and Bruce are now getting along.

I mean yeah, you could go with that take, but I’m always gonna argue that even that is more fanon based than anything else, at least before this issue. We’ve seen a lot of that take in the past already, but truth is, there really isn’t that much basis in older stories for Bruce comparing Jason to Dick. And like I’ve expanded on in the past, younger Jason looked UP to Dick, he certainly didn’t resent him. 

With this being true even when he first came back - Dick was the only one he didn’t target at ALL during Under the Red Hood, and when he did finally meet up with Dick a year later, during the Brothers in Blood arc, it was more to fuck with him than any attempt to take things out on him. Like, that arc gets a lot of shit and deservedly so, but I really do wish more people would at least takeaway from it the fact that in it, JASON referenced still thinking of Dick as family. Which just doesn’t mesh up with all the ‘they barely knew each other/they resented each other’ takes.

Pretty much all the times I can think of when Jason was compared to Dick pre ADITF, it was actually not at all what its usually represented as by most fandom takes, such as the time Jason teamed up with the Titans. For pretty much Jason’s entire tenure as Robin up until the Felipe Garzonas arc, Jason was actually portrayed as perfectly secure in his position of Robin and wasn’t threatened by anyone else’s perception of him at all. Even the arc where he loses it on Two-Face has been kinda amplified to make more of it than it was, like.....Bruce was worried about the anger he expressed there, but that was more out of concern FOR Jason and it wasn’t the “Jason was on the verge of getting fired as Robin all along” kinda narrative we tend to see referenced. 

Jason was only made out to be the angry Robin or the less competent Robin or whatever AFTER his death, which is all kinds of shitty, but like......there’s no real basis for any kind of extended history where Jason resentfully suffered under his big brother’s shadow while Robin. The angry/less competent Robin stuff was all DC retroactively railroading him after the fact to justify their choice to kill him off (which was still their choice no matter the existence of a poll), and its the narrative most people have run with because it amplifies Jason’s existence as the misunderstood and unfairly judged underdog of the family.

Now to be 100% clear, as I’ve said in the past.....there is absolutely no reason you CAN’T go with this take if you don’t want to. Nobody has to abide by canon, or a particular canon and I’ll never argue otherwise. My main point has always just been that the thing about fanfic is that its a transformative process, it enables fans to take canon and transform it into something else.....but here’s the thing....those transformations ALWAYS happen with INTENT. People are deliberate in how and in what ways they transform canon, even if they’re not always CONSCIOUS of that deliberation.....it still exists. None of these transformations just happen, they happen for a reason. Because fans want an end result that’s different from what we saw in canon.

So my thing is always just.....yes, transform canon as you like, for whatever reason. But don’t pretend that those reasons don’t exist, and understand that when people look at a canon to fanon transformation that really only results in one major difference.......they’re gonna assume that this difference, achieving this difference, was for whatever reason, the POINT of the transformation.

And here’s where I also want to express something else: my take has never been that most of fandom just hates Dick Grayson. That they’re consciously, deliberately out to smear him or make him look bad. I think there’s a lot of elements in play with how I perceive fandom’s interactions with him compared to other characters, but more often than not, I think one of the bigger issues with how his character is TRANSFORMED from canon to fanon, is just.......he’s collateral damage. I don’t think in most cases the point is even to make actual transformations of his character or characterization......its to apply these things to people he’s in scene WITH......and he just ends up transformed as well, by proximity.

Take a look at some examples:

1) Dick firing Tim

Except as we’ve gone over multiple times, Dick didn’t actually FIRE Tim. He didn’t neglect him, he didn’t turn his back on him, he could have handled that situation differently, sure, but he had none of the ill intent people assign to him when they typically ramp up how bad this period was for Tim. Dick actually called him his equal, begged him to stay, said he was too GOOD to be Dick’s junior partner........but this is not at all how this moment in canon is generally viewed by a lot of fandom. He comes off looking a TON worse, like he just chose Damian over Tim and discarded Tim first chance he got, he didn’t care how Tim was affected, he kicked Tim out of the manor and out of Gotham.

But the thing is.....I’d argue that none of this TRANSFORMATION from canon really had anything to do with Dick. I don’t actually think that tons of fans were just waiting in the wings for the perfect opportunity to make a villain out of Dick and just seized upon this moment as the perfect opportunity. I think it was just all about Tim. It was about accentuating his misery, his aloneness, heightening the whump factor of his character and amplifying the feelings of insecurity, rejection and alienation he was feeling and that people related to.

What happened to Dick’s character in most peoples’ eyes as a result of this transformation, was the symptom, not the point. It was the collateral damage, not the aim.

2) Bruce firing Dick

In contrast, we have more than one canon interpretation of Bruce firing Dick as Robin, with this leading directly into Dick leaving the manor at a fairly young age, keeping his distance from Bruce until he finds out about Jason, Bruce giving Robin to Jason without acknowledging or apologizing for the fact that he was giving away the identity that someone else had crafted and poured their heart and soul into, not him.......but this isn’t how a lot of fandom outside of Dick stans and people who are specifically predisposed towards Bad Dad Bruce like to treat that part of canon.

Here, the transformation is the reverse from what happened with Tim and Dick. Here, the feelings of rejection and alienation and insecurity Dick realistically would have felt during that time are overlooked and even outright invalidated by TRANSFORMING the canon so that actually, this period of extended estrangement is completely disconnected from any version of events where Bruce fired Dick, which he did not do here. And in fact, Dick gave up Robin, he and Bruce had a falling out, and this was mutual and two-sided and thus Dick’s refusal to come home earlier and reconcile with Bruce was not actually him standing up for himself and refusing to settle for being taken for granted and dismissed when convenient but rather just Dick being immature, stubborn and a little spoiled.

But again.....I don’t think that’s the aim so much as a byproduct of the intended end result. Once more, I think that had very little to do with Dick himself, wasn’t about making him look bad specifically....but rather, it was about making Bruce look better. It was transforming the thing he had done in canon which was so hard to defend, ie ignore all of Dick’s feelings on the matter much in the way people accuse Dick of ignoring Tim’s later, and passively rejecting him and refusing to be the first to reach out unlike Dick who actively sought after Tim when he left. Those moments in canon definitively make Bruce look pretty bad, and are hard to reconcile with Good Parent Bruce Wayne, so that is what people are trying to transform. Once again, the way it makes Dick look in contrast is just a symptom.

The further examples are honestly pretty endless.

The aftermath of Forever Evil and Spyral is ignored, transforming Dick into the true villain of that period not because people just want an excuse to hate him, but because they don’t want to or can’t reconcile what Bruce actually did in order to get Dick to act so out of character, or they want to justify Jason and Tim and others’ anger at Dick later rather than have them appear to be inconsiderate assholes just piling on a guy who just had the worst year of his life to date.

The instances of Bruce outright abusing Dick after Jason’s death and at other times like Night of the Owls are ignored, transforming Dick into an impetuous, overly aggressive asshole who isn’t reacting to Bruce’s initial aggression, but rather just popping off the handle because he isn’t being received or treated just the way he likes.

Dick reaching out to Jason and making an offer to be there for him as Robin and later times they interact in Titans as well as any actual bond they build, even if mostly just hinted at off the page....all ignored in favor of transforming Dick into this bitter, jealous jerk who can’t see past his own feelings long enough to realize he’s taking things out on an innocent kid who doesn’t deserve this, even though that’s exactly what he realized and motivated his actual actions towards Jason in canon. And again, its not so much about making Dick worse, its about overlooking the WHYS of Dick’s hurt, turning the focus from what was done to him that justifies him being upset in the first place, to some greater mistreatment he enacts on Jason and thus drowns out any sympathy that people might otherwise have for Dick.

Dick’s periods of brainwashing like under the Church of Blood being overwritten or ignored in order to transform his deliberately out of character attitudes towards his friends and teammates there into just normal outbursts that were part of his characterization rather than signs that something was abnormally wrong with him. Thus turning everyone else’s treatment of him during that time period into again just their part of a two-way street and nothing they had to feel bad about rather than acknowledge that he’d literally not been in full control of himself while they had no such excuse for their behavior.

To be clear.....this kind of thing is NOT limited to just Dick. It tends to happen any time people want to transform a canon event into something more one-sided, to accentuate a particular character’s position as the victim or the misunderstood or neglected party.....or to turn a one-way street into a mutual antagonism, to lessen a particular character’s culpability in some argument or feud. You can absolutely find examples of this same effect applying to every other character in the Batfam as well.

But the reason it happens so often with Dick, and thus every instance of it happening tends to be amplified by the sheer volume of similar situations......is because of convenience. Because ironically, the reason Dick so often looks so bad in fanon’s eyes when it comes to his treatment of his family....is BECAUSE of how Dick is so much more integrated into every one of his family’s lives (and his friends’) than pretty much any other character. He’s the collateral damage to other characters being deliberately transformed in some way purely because he’s the one who almost always is THERE to some degree. Because there’s no one else in the scene that’s being transformed.

And so to bring it all back to your question......I think you absolutely can go with that take. There’s an argument to be made for it, especially now given that this canon issue has actually established a precedent for Jason feeling that way rather than fanon just running with the idea because it makes Jason more maligned. Its still not something that’s ever going to interest me though, even if I can see the reasoning for it, because its not just the fact that this particular dynamic between Dick and Jason has played out thousands of times before in fic, as I said yesterday. Its also because like I laid out here......my bigger issue is that take has absolutely NOTHING to do with Dick himself, says nothing about his character, but his character is inevitably the one who will suffer fallout from that particular take. That dynamic, as you described it, makes sense.....but its entirely, 100% on Bruce or others for raising those comparisons, not because of anything Dick did to Jason himself.....and thus it makes Jason’s dynamic towards Dick MORE a product of other peoples’ reactions and attitudes towards him and his brother respectively.

And that dynamic IS perfectly understandable and valid. But even if its slightly different this time because of more of a canon basis, it still for me falls into the same pattern of Dick being collateral damage to something that’s largely focused on another character entirely, with him and how he’s impacted by extension being kinda an afterthought. 

*Shrugs* And that’s just......a story I’ve read so many many times before, I’m just never gonna be all that engaged by it. 

[generouslyinnercheescake]

Apologetically Green Hair

Rated PG-13 ish for strong language and mild mentions of childhood trauma/abuse

A/N WILL BE AT THE END

-----

His hair a dark green, Tim Drake stepped inside the Batcave all but shaking and twitching. As he began to take off his uniform, he quietly cursed about that “that damn man-hater” and her deceitful ways. Unfortunately for Tim, his little brother, Damian, decided to open his loud mouth of his and make a snarky comment as per usual. 

“Drake, what is wrong with your ridiculous hair? Have you finally decided that your awful hair should match your awful personality?” Damian smirked.

Tim glared at the young boy, “Go away, brat. I don’t have energy for this crap.” Tim’s aggressive tone only motivated Damian. 

Tim began his twitching again.

Damian’s abrasive tone pierced Tim’s ears, “What’s wrong with you, Drake.” The twitching continues. “Stop that!” 

Tim, meanwhile, could only hear his own heavy breathing and the hard thumping of his own heart, his whole body thrumming. He swallowed. “Go upstairs or something! Get away from me!” Tim’s voice sounded strained, uneasy. 

Damian’s eyebrows scrunched together, creating a crease in between them. “How dare you-”

Tim interrupted his brother with a throaty yet patronizing yell. “Go upstairs you little shit!”

The crease between Damian’s eyebrows became more prevalent. However, before Damian could make a resentful reply, Alfred arrived to diffuse the fight. He took one look at Tim’s hair, behavior and face, then urgently ordered Damian to go upstairs to his room. The young boy scoffed, but moodily complied. 

Alfred turned to his grandson. “I suggest you go take a quick shower.” Alfred moved towards the cot and opened a drawer to retrieve some aspirin. He carefully handed a couple to Tim. “Take these. I will call Miss Dinah.” Tim simply stared at some random spot in the room with a blank look upon his tired face. Alfred raised his right brow. “Go on, now.” 

Tim’s head jerked, and he stiffly left for the shower with the two aspirins still in his hand. 

After Tim was completely out of hearing distance, Alfred let out a loud breath. Before the aging man could go make a call, however, another Bat decided to make an appearance. Jason Todd entered with an obvious bullet wound located in his left upper arm. Despite all of that, Alfred did not hesitate to use a scolding tone with Jason. “What happened this time, Master Jay?” 

“Bullet wound.” Alfred simply sent the other man a look of ‘of course, I mean how.’ Jason pursed his lips, “Abusive Mom.”

Alfred nodded curtly. “Very well, Master Jay. Have a seat at the cot.”  Jason groaned at the increasing pain in his arm, then stiffly walked over to the cot as told. As the man sat down, Tim came out of the shower with still-green hair dripping on his clothed back. He urgently moved to the sink and began to furiously scrub his hair under the running facet. Jason stared at the odd scene while Alfred patched him up. Thankfully Jason was able to remove the bullet and put some cloth over the wound before he arrived at the cave, which made Alfred’s job much easier. 

A few minutes passed as Alfred fixed up Jason’s arm and Tim was still scrubbing his own chemical hair. After a few more minutes, Alfred announced, “I am done, Master Jay. Master Tim,” the mentioned man did not break his attention of scrubbing his own hair, “will fetch some aspirin for you.” Alfred finished curtly with some annoyance laced in his voice.

 Jason let out an annoyed breath. 

Alfred left to his bedroom upstairs to make a call then go to sleep. He was an old man, after all. That left the two men both uncomfortable, annoyed, and slightly upset. Tim kept on furiously scrubbing his hair, though, and didn’t give the other man a thought.

Jason simply glared at Tim’s back.

Eventually Jason got tired of glaring, and reminded Tim, “Aren’t you supposed to give me aspirin, replacement? I would get it for myself if they didn’t move a bunch of shit around.”

His attention finally broken, Tim jerked his head in surprise, which caused him to hit it on the facet. “Fuck.” He cursed and held his now throbbing head. He then looked in the mirror to be disappointed yet again.

The green was not gone.

 “What did Alfred tell me to- oh right...” He turned, then paused as he looked at Jason with some hesitance and gloom. Jason raised his eyebrows in expectancy. “um. Hold on. Lemme get-” Tim moved for the aspirin in the same drawer Alfred found it in. He took the white bottle out. “Here.” He handed it shakily to Jason. 

Jason noticed how Tim was trembling with fear, and immediately got angry. Jason snatched the bottle out of his replacement’s hand and said in defiance, “Scared of me, huh?” Tim’s face fell as Jason continued, “You’re just like everyone else on those fucking streets.” Jason nearly broke the bottle as he opened it for a couple of tablets. He dry swallowed them, a furious expression still etched on his face. Tim just looked on blankly. Jason put his shirt back on with a short groan of displeasure, then started to walk away.

Tim took a deep breath, knowing what he planned to say next would damn well piss the furious man off even more. “Do you remember anything about the Joker?”

Jason stopped walking. 

Then turned towards Tim.

His voice was at a volume a person could only describe as deadly. “What did you just say?”

Tim purses his lips. “I don’t have many memories of him. All I know is that they’re traumatic. So whenever this shit, “he gestured to his colored hair, “happens, I don’t know how to...feel.” He was uncomfortable when he admitted this.

Jason glared at his younger adoptive brother. “You’re always emotionally constipated. Just like fucking Bruce.” 

Tim chuckled. “Yeah. I’ve noticed.”

A long silence ensued while the two brothers looked at one another.

Then, “No.” 

Tin twitched. “What?”

“No, I don’t have many memories of that asshole.” Tim dumbly nodded. “What the hell did he do to you?”

Tim’s lips were drawn up in a straight line. “People tell me he called me his son. Joker Junior. Gave me his whole get-up. Tortured me for three weeks, then when Bruce and Babs found us, had a mental breakdown and shot the Joker.” Jason’s eyebrows were drawn together in anger and disappointment. “But I don’t remember much about it,” Tim clarified.

Jason nodded as he took all of this in. A few moments passed by. “Didn’t know.” He simply replied. Tim’s eyes were downcast and upset. Jason noticed this and stiffly began to walk back to the cot where his brother still stood.

Tim was shocked that Jason decided to elaborate. “Yeah. But in the memories I do have of him, I remember,” Jason chuckled while he started talking, “he called me these weird ass names...”

Tim was completely taken aback to how he himself and Jason were actually open about their situations with the psychotic clown. But as Jason continued Tim, for the first time while talking about the Joker, smiled.

FIN

A/N Thank you so much for reading! Also, thank you for requesting this cute idea, @sleezykryptonite ! If you can, please check out their page. Also, please follow me if you’re just finding me, I would really appreciate it. Anyways, I will be coming out with more fics within the next week or two, so if you liked this, stay tuned for more one-shots! Thanks!

[blackandbluegrayson]

I see you wish for batfam content... I too wish for this 🙄 how about 28. With Dick Grayson?

(I’mnot totally happy with how that one has gone. Hope it not too bad. Warning: brotherlyfluff, tiny bit of angst and Dick being a silly Big Brother ahead.)

28 “You’re like agiant cinnamon rolls” 

Tim is lookingat the case files on his laptop. It’s the only thing he can do at the momentconsidering that he was stuck on Dick’s surveillance duty with Jason and Damian.

Nightwingmanages to get himself shot in the thigh during patrol, been pushed down thebuilding and hit his head pretty hard when he fell in a dumpster. Red Hood hasbeen the one that have found him and bring him back to the cave. Lucky thewounds haven’t been life threatening, but now Dick was on some painkiller andsome antibiotic to make sure they won’t get infected and Alfred has strictly instructedto keep him out of trouble while Batman continue to follow the lead his oldesthad found.

Tim stillwonders what the three of them have done recently to piss off Alfred enough forhim to make them do this. Drug Dick can be a handful. Because if he gets boredhe could decide to just join them on the field or do something stupid thatwould end up with him in the worst condition. Like earlier he has refused tostay in his bed until they were all in the room with him.  

Damian hastaken one for the team. He is tucked against Dick uninjured side trying to playsome video game. Not an easy task with the acrobat’s head resting on top of hisand one arm around him but Damian is dedicated to both his duty and for oncedidn’t complain.

Tim is sittingon the other side of Dick so he could keep him warm and make sure he doesn’tfall down or get up without good reason from the large bed. Jason has taken aseat in one of the comfortable chairs that he has brought closer to the bedsideas he read a book he has grabbed from the library on the way to the room. His legsare stretched on the mattress his ankles on Dick ones keeping him for movingaround too much and disturb his stitches. Things are going well so far and if they are lucky Dick would be asleep in afew minutes“You’re like a giant cinnamon rolls.”

Or maybe not.

Tim blinksand turns toward Dick. The first Robin too vivid blue eyes are fixed on the badboy of the family. Jason seems to take a moment before he realizes Dick istalking to him, looks up from his book and makes a little confuse hum.“That is Todd, Grayson, not some pastry.” Damian says as he pause his games andlooks up to his older brother. Anyone who didn’t know the young Wayne wouldthink he was angry at his oldest but Tim can see the worry in his eyes. “If youare hungry we can ask Pennyworth to bring you something.”Dick shakes his head. “I’m good.” He smiles. “I mean like the meme that Wally sendsme last week.” That confuses more the younger boy. “What is a meme?”Dick glances at Tim and wiggles his fingers toward the nightstand. “Give me my phoneplease. It would easier to explain.” It only takes him a few seconds to findwhat he is searching for. “There it is.” Still he didn’t show them.“Looks like theycould kill you is actually a cinnamon roll; that totally you Jaybird.” Dick saysand smiles at his brother.Tim snorts when he catches up where their oldest his going.  Jason glares at Tim before he turns his attention back at Dick and frowns. “Youremember I have killed peoples before right?”

“As much asthis a big issue in the family … you never kill people that didn’t kinda deserveit. Not that agrees or anything but…” Dick shakes his head knowing it adangerous conversation so he continues on his initial goal. “You are aprotector Jason. You look tough, and you are, but deep down you are cinnamonrolls: fluffy, warm and comforting.” Jason rolls his eyes. “You are on good drugs Goldie.” He says but he couldn’thide his blushing. That is why he normally shields under his helmet; Jason’s emotionsare always clear on his face. His relation with the rest of the family has beenbad in the years after his resurrection, not that anyone could really blamehim, but in the recent year it was getting a bit easier. Tonight was the bestproof. He has been the one making sure Nightwing would be back home and hasn’t movedfrom the cave until Alfred declare that Dick was out of danger. Jason caresdeeply for people, just not the way most normally do.

“TT, comparing humans to pastry is nonsensical,Grayson. You should be resting.” Damian comments. He isn’t comfortable withthis. He realizes that Dick would probably say something too emotional and hewouldn’t know how to react.

The older manchuckles and brings his baby brother event closer to his side. “You worry forme little D. That why to me you are cinnamon roll is actually a cinnamon roll.”He says softly as he presses his nose the short black hair.

“Unhand me atthis instant Grayson.” Damian complains and try to push him away but notwithout much force. It’s more for the show than anything. The boy has areputation to keep.

Tim shakeshis head with a bittersweet smile on his lips. “Why I’m not surprised.” Hemutters under his breath. He sometimes resent Damian to have got this close toDick. It used to be him.  

Most people inthe world would probably think that Dick is crazy to associate a formerassassin to a sweet and soft thing, but not most people are Dick Grayson. He hasbeen at Damian’s side during the roughest years of the boy’s attitude and has guidedhim to become the young man he is now. Not a small task. Damian is Robin butDick would always be HIS Batman, his moral compass.

“Whatabout Replacement?” Jason suddenly asks.

Tim smilesleft his lip at the nickname. He hates it so much.

Dick turnstoward him and ruffles his hair. “Looks like a cinnamon roll could actuallykill you.”

Tim’s heartsinks a bit at this answer. Did his brother really think he could kill anyone?

Evendrug up, Dick can catch the singles change in his demeanour. “I don’t mean thatin a bad way, Timmy. I have helped train you. I have watched you evolve fromthat clumsy kid to the man you are now. For years, I have seen peopleunderestimate your capacities, physically and mentally, and witness youobliterated every single one of them.” He grins proudly and lowers his hand so itrests on Tim’s shoulder. “You’re like a secret weapon.”

Timlooks down and blushes. It still didn’t sit well with him but he understandDick’s point of view. Maybe one day he would be able to see it in the same waysas his brother do.

Damian reachesto grab the cellphone out of Dick’s hand to see if there was something else.“Grayson, you are mistaken; obviously ‘looks like they could kill you couldactually kill you’ is more fitting for me.” Dick squeezes Tim’s shoulder one last time and turn to take his phone back. “NoDamian, that clearly Bruce.”The boy glares at him. “Father doesn’t kill.” He responds seriously.

“The demonspawn is right.” Jason’s comment and cross his arms. “That would be more likehim.”Dick rolls his eyes. “Aright let says that Bruce is: Look like he could breakevery single bone in your body and make you wish you were dead.” He smiles.“I’m not changing my mind. You are my cinnamon roll, Little D.” Damian makes a small huff and looks away clearly try to hide his embarrassment.“And what that made you Grayson?”Dick grins and there this gleam in his eye. Tim groans. He knows what is comingand there nothing they can do to stop it. He just braces himself.

“With abutt like mine, I’m clearly a sin-in-a-bum.” He manages to say before he beginsto crackle. Damian blinks a few times not understanding at first.

Jason groansand hit his forehead with the book he I still holding in his hand. “I canbelieve we walk directly into that one.” He mumbles. “Did you really tell allthis to bring us to that pun? Don’t answer….I will punch you if you say yes. WhoI’m kindling? I will shoot you myself you the moment you are better.”That only makes Dick laugh more.

Tim only shakes his head and takes his attentionback on his laptop. If Dick terrible sense of humour was intact, he would befine.