#Superman is technically the father of three kids now

[radiance1]

Not gonna lie, love the idea of Match being taught sign language by library volunteers during slow days! Danny would also try to learn too so they could better communicate with each other in public without being looked at too weirdly (because you know, speaking in a language made from grunts, chirps, etc) and I could even seeing a few people cooing over him because he's that determined to learn for his brother! Also because he's cute, and able to sit still for so long.

Young Justice when seeing sick Danny: Panik

Match when he comes back with food and can't hear his brother's heartbeat: Major panik

Feel like Match would be searching all over the place for Danny even though he already knows that Danny is gone but his hearing might just be wonky so there might be a small chance that Danny was still there.

When he doesn't find Danny, he searches around the immediate area, finds nothing.

Match knows he's supposed to be hiding in the shadows to avoid the lab people his brother is so afraid of and yea, he doesn't want to go back to unawareness either. But he can't find Danny, he's panicking, he's also very, very angry at whoever took Danny and both fearful at the same time.

So.

When he sees someone flying -Superman, the information in his mind supplied- and sees that S symbol with no Danny there to distract him or lead him away from it and just angry.

He crashes him head on and starts to fight with the reason he was made in the first place.

Meanwhile, the Young Justice team is kinda freaking out because they currently have a sick baby that, yea, they're treating but also because his big brother what do they do about him-

Okay so, maybe kidnapping wasn't the best idea, but the kid genuinely looked so miserable that they just had to help. also adding onto the fact, he was one of two cryptids they were hunting down. They do tease Connor a bit about how the kid clung onto him on the way back and is still kinda holding on to him.

Tim questioned if that was a Kryptonian thing.

Connor didn't know the answer to that question.

And then Bart said that there was something they should really, really look at and. Oh holy shit.

The older cryptid was fighting Superman. He was losing, yea, but he also seemed to be getting stronger and faster under the sun because kryptonian and was fighting like an actual animal. Which meant he actually managed to get a few surprise attacks in on Superman, despite how simple his fighting style was.

And then he pulled out the goddamn heat vision.

Hm. Well. That's not good.

So, they may have fucked up. Just a teeny, tiny bit.

Meanwhile, somewhere else, this has quite obviously attracted Luthor's attention and he goes: Oh yes, the clone I lost is fighting Superman, how great.

He's honestly surprised it took this long for the clone to make the news or, at the very least, to be known to the wider public through video. The thing was, unfortunately, quite feral and thus uncontrollable and Lex lost most of his interest in it after that. It being stolen was a non-issue, no one could get through to the thing and he could always reclaim it if he wanted to.

Or at least, that's what he thought.

For it to be capable of hiding itself for so, so long and not immediately cause a ruckus means that there was a way to control it. Which is something that he was very, very interested in, from the method to how it was found in the first place.

Which led his thoughts back to the other clone that went missing.

It was a failure, plain and simple. It was developed after their first attempt at a pure Kryptonian and took quite a bit of resources to get the required genetic material needed for it. But alas, it was unfortunate that it was no better- in fact, even worse than the first attempt.

Not only was it in the body of a mere toddler, the furthest they could push it without destabilizing it. It also was utterly immobile and unresponsive, even when they planted things in its brain, it did nothing. It was so unresponsive that, even though it had the blood of a goddess running through its body, they didn't use many resources to contain it.

After all, what was the use to contain something that wouldn't move, wouldn't respond and seemingly couldn't think?

He tapped his finger against his desk, staring the video in front of him down.

Perhaps, he was wrong.

There was something that could control the first of their first attempt and, seeing as there was no report of anyone getting in but rather out Lex Luthor had reason to believe that the key would be none-other than the unresponsive, no, previously unresponsive little clone he disregarded.

Perhaps the divine blood running through its veins gave it the ability to command its 'siblings'?

No matter, he would have many a chance to test that theory when he gets them back.

Danny has been reincarnated.

Which was an odd thing to realize, it wasn't even a slow one he just... snapped into it one day. One moment he was staring at a wall out of boredom the next, well, he was staring for an entirely different reason.

It was a task for his now young -he thinks around three years old?- mind to work its way through the memories, but it wasn't like he had much else to do honestly. So, what does he know?

His name is Danny, like, his actual name and not just a moniker. He was once a halfa and he already knows he's going to be missing invisibility and intangibility. He, well, died. For like, a second time which actually makes sense because reincarnation-

Anyways.

He was a clone of two people from this thing called the Justice League which, weird name but probably some government or activist group. Wonder Woman and Superman. Which were pretty weird names to name your kids but eh.

He doesn't really remember much besides that from this life, or the one from before but he's an adult! He'll figure things out once he gets out of this containment tube thing.

Did he mention he was in a test tube? He's a tube baby now. He thinks? Or maybe it's more like he's being contained.

Whatever.

So he breaks out. Thank you apparent superstrength that he has no idea why he has but he's not going to complain! He then wandered around all of the other test tubes, able to remember just enough of English to see that yea, they're dead.

He probably was too, before he had memories zapped into him. Or a vegetable.

He then finds this really big container, checks it out, then opens it because the clone inside isn't dead!

'Project Match' it said. He'll just call him Match.

Was he thanked for helping him? Nope. You would think that he would be thanked or at least somewhat respected for saving this guy but nope!

He was, quite literally, held up by his leg and dangled in the air. Who dangles a three-year-old?! Well, he was technically and adult but still! The next few things were a blur but after pulling off the old Fenton charm he found him and Match outside as he tried to stop him from attacking random people.

Luckily the charms and privilege of the youngest (he's assuming he's the youngest, because he's physically three) was more than enough to get through to him. Sure, the guy couldn't form words, really aggressive for literally no reason, really weird but also absolutely cool looking eyes. But he worked around the first issue by developing their own personal language from like grunts and stuff, the second he once again used his youngest privilege to boss him around and the third a pair of sunglasses easily fixed.

He just had to steer Match clear of those random S crest mark thingies. Which was a weird thing to hate but hey, he's not there to judge.

[l0s3rd0wnt0wn]

You know what we never see, neglected reader who is damn near bruce's age. Technically if you think about it you can really have kids at any age, so why people only make him pump it and dump it only when is in his 30s and 40s is crazy to me. If Bruce has I kid at 18 and he is in his late 40s , reader could be in their 30s and be the oldest of the batkids. Especially if reader has gone their whole life never knowing bruce until know or known them in the last couple of years.

Reader is a grown ass adult, whom bruce and the family have no real authority over considering their age. The audacity of batfamily as well, y'all are really out here bullying a grown adult like?????? Honesty if they wanted to they could just leave, like for real. Also technically speaking, if reader is near bruce's age, then most of the boys neglected reader is paired with romantically would be considered significantly younger, and I don't think reader would really date youger than themselves.

But you know who they could date, the league. Reader might be slightly younger but it wouldn't be considered an inappropriate age gap like we be seeing here on this damn app. Anyone only the Justice League is free game for her. God could you imagine what Bruce feel if he ever caught one of his own colleagues was shaking up with his oldest kid, especially if it was somone like Wonder Woman or Superman, the two people he is closest to.

I LOVE THIS IDEA OVERWORKED ADULT!READER

Just thinking about a reader who is an overworked office worker at Wayne Enterprises, the same company that Bruce owns, without knowing that Bruce Wayne is their biological father. They go through years of their lives not really knowing their dad and not really caring, like Father's Day was just another Mother's Day to them, or they would give Father's Day presents to their uncles or grandpa. They never really cared to know their dad and never really cared to even see him. Their mom said he was just a feeling that she had when she was 18; it wasn't too important, and she can hardly remember. But then again, who forgets Bruce Wayne? At that time, he wasn't the infamous playboy, just a hurt rich kid with too much eyeliner. Bruce wasn't even aware of their existence until now.

Just think about it: you're going out on a daily walk in Gotham Park when all of a sudden you run into Dick and his cute little dog, Haley. You play around with the puppy for just a while before you go back on your walk. Dick is practically blushing because, wow, you're so good with animals and you're so kind and nice—not to mention you remind him of somebody, but he can't put his finger on it. The next thing you know, you run into Tim, who's having trouble with the vending machine. You teach the kid a small trick: hitting the vending machine at least three times on different sides, and boom, energy drinks fall out. You hand him the other one while walking away, and he thinks you're the coolest person to ever step foot on this Earth. You catch Damian sketching in the park and compliment him on his artistic skills. He never cared for silly compliments, but yours felt so real, so kind and genuine.

You meet Steph Batgirl; you both are ordering the same combo meal just for you to say, "Jinx, you owe me a soda!" Being playful, she gets you an extra Sprite. You accidentally drop your wallet, and Cass picks it up. She doesn't say anything, so it makes you think that she's mute or deaf, so you end up signing "thank you" to her. She's over the moon, ecstatic even. Duke is complaining about how his favorite coffee shop is out of matcha drinks. You end up buying matcha—a stupid trend—and you give him your drink. He's left flustered, struggling to say thank you.

At the bar, you're out with some coworkers drinking until you and your work crew are singing "99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall." Jason, who's at the same bar, catches you. He thinks your drunk expressions are pretty cute, and they all share the same experiences they had that day with each other. They figure out they met the same person, surprisingly similar to Bruce. They also list key traits like how you're tall, your long dark hair, your tired eyes, your slumped posture, and your amazing charm, which managed to make them become yanderes in under a minute. They share this information with Bruce, who's completely confused as to why all of his little birds would be obsessed with you.

He finally sees you in the office, snoozing over a pile of paperwork. He has paternal feelings towards you, wanting to wrap you in his thousand-dollar suit coat. He puts it over your shoulders and takes the workload off of you. The next thing you know, he's reading into your files, trying to learn everything and anything about you, just to know that you've been working here for three years. He learns that even though you do an exceptional job, your mother is the old flame he had during his first years as Batman. He takes a piece of your DNA—an energy drink you've been chugging down your throat—just to realize that you are his blood. But how can he just step into your life without you even knowing him? Any of the Birds stepping into your life without you regarding them— to you, they're just a bunch of strangers that you've had silly moments with; to them, you're family. I have a hunch that they knew you for years, at least more than the big sibling that somehow managed to run away.

[gothamite-rambler]

Batman: Tell me why—

Red Robin (singing): Ain't nothing but a heartache.

Batman: You're not pulling that crap with me again. Tell me why—

Red Robin (singing): Ain't nothing but a mistake.

Batman seethed with rage as his friends stood nearby, suppressing their laughter.

Batman: Stop singing and tell me why—

Red Robin (singing, snapping his fingers): I never wanna hear ya call... me on my day off! Bye. Call me if it's to save the day and not a press junket!

Red Robin ended the call with the song, then went back to reading books with Stephanie, Konnor, and Bernard, while Batman glared angrily at his phone.

Batman: He... hung up on me?!

Wonder Woman (leaning forward with a smirk): After serenading you, too. Good singing voice.

Superman: I miss the Backstreet Boys. They made some good songs.

Batman: I’m going to bash my head against the wall because of these kids. I need one of them to be here! I hate going to these events alone.

Wonder Woman: Nightwing?

Batman: He’s in Hawaii with Starfire... I owed him that after dragging him out of bed when he was sick three weeks ago.

Wonder Woman: Red H-

Superman slapped his hand over Wonder Woman's mouth, nervous to hear the name of Red Hood since that man still hated him for technically stopped Batman from killing the Joker.

Superman: He's clearly busy with other things. What about the youngest Robin? That'd be a good look.

Batman: He's busy with school. Orphan doesn't like being in large crowds, that leaves... Nope. I refuse to call him.

Superman: I agree! Maybe Batwoman is free.

Wonder Woman: No, she's out of town visiting her sister. Since you two cowards won't call him, I will. I have his number.

Wonder Woman pulled out her phone, pushing Batman aside before he could snatch it. She dialed Red Hood. Superman sighed accepting this might happen.

Superman: Ask if Spoiler can come too. I need a former Robin who doesn’t hate me.

Wonder Woman: On it... Hi, Red Hood! Code red... Yeah, the others are busy. Can you bring Spoiler too?

Wonder Woman shoved Batman to the ground, continuing her chat with Red Hood about his week and their low-level mission, barely mentioning anything serious.

Wonder Woman: Oh, you’re still with Ravager? That’s good... Yes, I do think so, she’s got warrior blood in her too... How far along am I? Four months. I can keep fighting. It’s not until month six that I’ll have to take a break from heroics... Why thank you I do look fit.

Batman: He did not say that!

Wonder Woman turned away from Batman a wide grin as she kept talking to Red Hood.

Batman (trying to take the phone): We don’t need him for a press junket! Give me—

Wonder Woman throat-punched Batman, causing him to fall to the ground coughing. Superman chuckled as he approached.

Wonder Woman: Yeah, it’s a press junket... Yeah, nothing super serious. But I’d call you if it was a threat. I trust you can save the day, like any other Robin... Yes, I do mean that... Tsk, aww you're so sweet... Do you think you can be here soon with Spoiler?

Batman (covering his face while lying on the ground): This is mortifying.

Wonder Woman: Yes... yes, your father is mortified... I thought you’d find that funny... Batman, he's laughing.

Batman growled in anger.

Wonder Woman: Okay, see you both soon.

Wonder Woman ended the call and looked down at Batman.

Wonder Woman (playing innocent): Now Batman, what was it that you needed?

Batman (angry): I hate you.

Wonder Woman: Aww, love you too. Oh, and Superman, Red Hood requested you keep your distance from him, but he will bring Spoiler.

Superman (shrugging): Works for me.

[chentailai]

**From *Batman: The Brave and the Bold***

(Featuring Jaime, the die-hard Batman fanboy, and Jason, the new owner of the Iceberg Lounge—I forget which comic this is from.)

Jaime, a broke college student from Gotham University, lost his job (and couldn’t find another one). Burdened by debt and desperate for cash, he was convinced by his classmates to try his luck on a sugar bady website. He figured, *Hey, if it’s just about having dinner and laughing with some rich guy, I can handle that.* But then he stumbled upon a bizarre post from someone named Jason Todd:

**“$10,000 a month. Must be younger than me. Must be able to handle all kinds of super-powered threats—Poison Ivy ，Bane… even Superman or Batman.”**

Jaime only saw one word: **“Batman.”**

**“Batman! I could actually meet Batman!!”**

**“Is this for real? I get to make money AND see Batman?!”**

And just like that, Jaime became Jason’s sugar boy (slash bodyguard). When Jason first met Jaime, he thought the kid was joking—until Jaime casually demolished an abandoned building in front of him to prove his worth.

It wasn’t until they met that Jaime realized this ridiculously handsome guy was the new boss of the Iceberg Lounge.

**Jaime:** “So, Penguin’s gone, and you’re the new Penguin… but why don’t you dress like a penguin?”

**Jason:** “I’m not the damn Penguin! I’m the Red Hood!”

**Jaime:** “Ohhh—Red Hood!”

**Jason:** “Who?”

**Jaime:** “You’re a Batman fan, and you don’t know who I am?!”

**Jaime:** “Wait, I got it! You’re that Robin who died!”

**Jason:** (clenching his fists, trying not to punch the kid)

After some back-and-forth, they finally agreed on three ground rules (because who wouldn’t want a cheap, gullible super-bodyguard? Though, to be clear, Jaime just wanted the money, and Jason was mostly in it to trick with the kid—he didn’t even plan to pay him).

**Jaime’s Rules:**

1. “I’ll only protect your life. I won’t get involved in any illegal activities, and I won’t kill anyone for you.”

2. “I promise not to call the cops, and you promise not to hurt my family or coerce me in any way. As long as you pay me on time, this is a legit employer-employee relationship.”

3. “Even though I’m technically your sugar boy, you’re not allowed to touch me. At all.”

**Jaime:** “And especially don’t touch my back. Seriously, it’s for your own safety.”

**Jaime:** “I serious,Do. Not. Touch. My. Back.”

Jason rolled his eyes behind his mask.

**Jason’s Rules:**

1. “When you’re with me or at the Iceberg Lounge, you must follow my orders. Do whatever I tell you to do.”

2. “I’ll put a tracker on you to make sure you don’t wander into a police station one night after dinner.”

3. “Since I’m technically your sugar daddy now, from this moment on, you’ll call me ‘daddy.’”

**Jaime:** “What kind of ridiculous rules are these?!”

**Jason:** “Or you can admit that I’m better than Batman.”

**Jaime:** “I quit! Batman is the best!”

At the end of the first month, Jaime only received $1,000.

**Jaime:** “This isn’t what we agreed on!”

**Jason:** “Your job is to be my sugar boy, but look, you haven’t done any sugar boy work at all~”

As they spent more time together, Jaime realized that Jason wasn’t the so-called “sugar daddy” people thought he was—in fact, he had serious “daddy issues”! Moved by Jason’s tragic past, the kind-hearted Jaime decided to become his “second father” to help heal Jason’s emotional wounds. (???)

**[I suggest you kill him]**, the famous emotional expert Khaji Da said.

**[Then take his place. That would solve our financial problems immediately.]**

**Jaime:** “First, I don’t kill people. Second, I have no interest in being a crime boss. Third, I need him alive so I can attract Batman.”

Of course, Jaime also did this to get Jason’s money (*Tremble, capitalists! This is the revenge of the working class!*). Bottom to top!

**[Khaji Da sighed.]** *One day, I’ll give you an offer you can’t refuse.*

**Jaime:** “That sounds very ‘fatherly.’ I’ll try saying it to him tomorrow.” (*takes notes*)

But Jaime’s sympathetic gestures gave Jason the same illusion everyone gets:

**Jason:** “He must have a crush on me.”

So, Jason started taking Jaime along on his business trips, treating them like dates.

The funny thing about this story is that Jaime is straight. He’s heterosexual. So, this is a tragic tale of a “straight guy misfortune” (not really).

**Author’s Note:**

I’m in school and don’t have the time or energy to write this. This is all the inspiration I have for now. If anyone likes it, feel free to take it and write or use it. I give my permission and look forward to seeing what you come up with!

I’m off to treat my writing anxiety. See you next week!

[interdimensional-kickerofbutt]

Have you shared your thoughts on Xochitl Gomez being cast as America Chavez? If not, how do you feel about her casting and her acting/looks wise?

Honestly? I don't have much of an opinion yet, other than no body was going to be entirely satisfied no matter who got cast (me included, because I love America so much).

But other than that...

Well, first of all, I don't know the actress from much else. I know she made a series, but I haven't watched it yet... I feel it's a little beside the point though, because we still have to see her properly characterized and in character and... y'know... acting like America before I can tell whether she's pulling the part off or not.

So far, I think most of the Young Avengers castings have been pretty on point, so I do have hope that they know where they are going with this.

Now, I know there's been some discussion in fandom (and some downright anger) about a couple topics. And I DO have opinions about those:

1. Her race. This is the big one. I'll say this: it's a complicated thing in the comics, because America has never been openly stated to be mixed-race. She's latina for sure and most artists do draw her as afro-latina, but that varies greatly from one book to another. It's not something clear as, say, Miles Morales, whose father is clearly black and mother clearly latina. Even America's moms both seem mixed race... which again raises the issue of vagueness. So, while I do see people complaining that she's not afrolatina (and I agree that that's the most standard interpretation of her), I don't think sadly that it was clear enough that this is them "whitewashing" her. Do I wish personally that they'd cast a dark-skinned or afrolatina actress? Yes, absolutely. But I don't think this is as damning as some ppl are making it seem. There's some nuance there to be taken into account.

2. Another thing I've curiously seen brought up is the fact that the actress is mexican and not puertorrican. On that regard, I would point out again the vagueness of her origins (up until recently, at least). America was created to be a sort of superman... an alien who came to this world and became part of it and, within it, a particular culture. Aka: latinx. (The same way Superman seems like a white man who stands for the "american ideal" event though he's not strictly speaking a caucasian human nor was he born in the usa). She was from an alternate utopian parallel reality, not even part of the Multiverse itself (which is why, canonically, there was only one of her in the whole Multiverse... again, until recent retconning). Now, a few months ago a (frankly awful) retconning took place which stripped America away from much of her backstory and made her a puertorrican kid who had pretty much made up everything about the utopian parallel because of trauma. I personally hate that change, but whatever. My point is, this version of her backstory didn't technically exist when Xochitl was cast, and I don't see this as a "change of nationality". (Which, btw, still wouldn't be a big deal anyway and is nowhere as close to the whole valid race issue). Will the new (bs) backstory be the one the MCU presents in the new movie? I have frankly no idea. But you can probably guess what I hope.

3. And then there's her age. People are mostly angry that the three non-straight Young Avengers so far have been cast as much younger than their counterparts (Billy, Tommy and America). In regards to America, most of the criticism also stems from this move probably being with the intention to avoid shipping with Kate Bishop (a non-canon ship that has lots of subtext in canon and a heavy shipping base in fandom). But... really? I think it's weirder that they made Kate so much older than everyone else. I mean, she already is (in YAv2 she turns 21 while the rest are still minors) but not THAT much. Making her mid-twenties when her original backstory had her closer to everyone else's teenage range feels odd to me. I mean, Hailey is delightful and the move works for the Hawkeye show, but on a long-term plan, I think the younger Young Avengers make far more sense. With the time these movies take to make and come out, Xochitl (who will be 16 in 2022 and it's an actually appropriate age for a teen character) will probably be around 18-19 by the time any Young Avengers movie gets made (since it hasn't even been announced yet, let alone gone into preproduction). If you'd cast her at mid-twenties like Kate, you'd have a "young avenger" nearing thirty by the time you filmed. So, yeah, I see the concerns regarding age and age-gaps, but I don't think it's this actress that makes the equation funny.

Okay, for someone who said they didn't have many thoughts, I guess I do have quite a few haha but they are mostly regarding the fandom reactions to stuff.

When it comes to the actual actress, I'll say this: I am moderately optimistic, I am overwhelmingly excited to see my favorite character in the MCU in any type or form and I am (at the same time) fucking terrified that they will fuck her up.

Guess I can only wait and find out.

[popwasabi]

“Who are you?” The scene that defines Chadwick Boseman’s legacy

Yesterday, the world lost a bright and promising, burgeoning talent in Chadwick Boseman.

I had wondered privately for a while if something was wrong with him, as others had as well online, as he appeared increasingly sicker with each interview he gave over the last two years. I thought maybe I had been looking too much into it, not wanting to jump to conclusions about who he was but now gravely we all know why.

The much too young star of films such as “42,” “Marshall,” and of course, “Black Panther” had been fighting a largely private battle with colon cancer for four years.

It was devastating hearing this news yesterday, the man who undeniably left behind a legacy of playing prominent black heroes, both historical and fictional, passed away just as he was starting to truly hit it big. When you begin to realize the man was dealing with cancer as he performed physically demanding roles in the MCU you begin to see the character and determination of a man unwilling to quit in the face of true adversity.

But he clearly wasn’t just doing it for himself when he continued making and promoting NINE more movies despite his diagnosis, afterall no one would’ve blamed the guy for taking it easy these past four years. He’s had many scenes that define his legacy over his all too short career but I feel it can really be summed up in one particular moment from by far his most famous film; “Black Panther.”

Those who know me or have read my work know that I have a fairly cynical relationship with the Marvel Cinematic Universe. While I would not say most of them are “bad” per se, I would say a ton of them are largely interchangeable action comedies with pretty straightforward messages about good vs evil for general audiences. They are largely popcorn escapism and though there is nothing technically wrong with that, I was starved for an MCU film that was sincere about its story finally and had something real to say.

Enter “Black Panther” in early 2018.

“Black Panther” was everything I had long been waiting for in the MCU; a film with a real sense of vision and theme, a killer soundtrack, great supporting characters, a complicated and nuanced villain, and a story that didn’t feel the need to add a joke after every single scene like more typical MCU movies. The tip of that spear of course was Chadwick, who had already proved to be a great Black Panther in one of the few other sincere Marvel flicks “Civil War.” His natural charisma, physicality, and dramatic presence in this role made him a huge standout in frankly the best ensemble cast of any superhero movie ever.

The scene that truly sums up not just the mark “Black Panther” left on Hollywood but Chadwick’s own legacy comes at the very end though (the first of three, of course. It’s an MCU movie, afterall).

T’Challa has defeated his usurper cousin Erik Killmonger, his rule restored in Wakanda but clearly a changed man from the story’s beginning as he reckons with the complicated legacy of his father. He travels to Oakland, the birthplace of Killmonger, with his sister Shuri who he explains the crime committed by their father in this place and how it set off the events of the story. He turns to Shuri, tells her that he has decided to help this afflicted community by creating a Wakandan outreach center for the youth to give them a new hope in life. As he says this he decloaks their ship nearby, surprising the youth already in the area who are immediately in awe of it. One of the kids turns to T’Challa, smiling, a sense of inspiration and intrigue brewing inside, and asks “Who are you?” to which the young King simply smiles, then the credits roll.

It’s a simple scene but it truly speaks to the impact left behind by Chadwick and the importance of representation. 

“Black Panther” is hardly the first starring vehicle for a black man, it’s not even the first black super hero movie but what it made it different is it was the first blockbuster to truly lean unapologetically into its African identity to focus on the inspiration of a story centered around that culture. It showed Hollywood that an action blockbuster not just centered on a black star but centered on African culture had vast widespread appeal.

White kids will never have a shortage of white superheroes to grow up with on the big screen; a diverse palette of Supermans, Spider-mans, Captain Americas, and shit we’re even getting our sixth new Batman actor since 1989 soon. But Chadwick gave black kids their first real Superman of their own. 

In the years since this came out, I have seen the influence, at times, firsthand among the youth. I work part-time as a kids martial arts instructor and each Halloween party we’ve held I’ve seen a few more T’Challas among the costumes represented. When I ask kids, black, white, or Asian, what their favorite superhero is, it always warms my heart to see a kid light up when they say “BLACK PANTHER!”

(Seriously, cute AF)

This goes beyond just my anecdotal observations of course; the film grossed a billion dollars, and there are countless videos online of kids yelling “Wakanda forever!” at the top of their lungs while rocking a Black Panther suit or reciting one of the movie’s memorable lines. It’s beautiful because it speaks to that last scene’s key message; inspiration.

Growing up myself, as a half Asian American, there weren’t a ton of role models who looked like me to take inspiration from. I didn’t really understand how much this could affect me until I finally did start seeing people like myself occupy positions of influence. I didn’t start caring for baseball until I saw a slugger named Hideki Matsui smash a couple dingers in a Yankees’ uniform in the early 2000s. I didn’t care much for martial arts, outside my very early youth, until I witnessed a half Japanese Brazilian named Lyoto Machida KO Thiago Silva at UFC 94 in 2009. I didn’t care much for soccer until a striker named Keisuke Honda played out of his mind in the early rounds of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Sometimes you gotta see something happen in order to believe and be inspired by it and it’s easier to visualize it when you see someone who looks like you do it. That’s what representation means and why it’s important.

It’s easy for white America to dismiss the need for representation in media when theirs is so saturated in the culture everyday. Cries of “wHaT aBoUt wHiTe HiStORy mOnTH?!” delivered unironically while their history is proudly given front seat consideration in all forms of media, film, and influence every day. This is why it drives me so crazy when a white person tells me “representation isn’t important” because apparently, they “don’t need it.”

Well motherfucker, of course you don’t need it. You fucking got yours already!

(What every non-white person wants to say when confronted with this tired, out of touch argument...)

“Black Panther” delivered a superhero that not only black children could be proud of and love but someone they could draw inspiration from. Kids are going to want to become film directors cause of this movie, actors, stuntmen, martial artists, scientists, engineers, and so many other different things that the world of Wakanda proudly showcases and it’s all thanks to Chadwick’s leading man performance that made it possible.

Some jokes I’ve heard frequently on the internet is that Chadwick was on somewhat of a quest to play every major black role in story-telling history, what with performances as Jackie Robinson, Thurgood Marshall, James Brown, and of course Black Panther. But I think his 2018 speech at his Alma Mater of Howard really explains why he kept looking to play these major positive black roles.

(I encourage you to listen to the whole thing but the part that’s important here begins at 21:55)

Hollywood likes to pigeon hole certain demographics of people (aka non-white) to play stereotypical roles forever until they are proven to be lucrative in different ways (Qualified Immunity of film-making if you will…). Black people largely could mostly play thugs and drug dealers, Latinx can only be gang bosses and poor servants and gardeners, Asians are either kung fu masters or some other offensive perpetual foreigner. And in worst cases no role at all, instead whitewashed for general audiences (aka white folk). 

Chadwick took a stand that the color of his skin did not define who Hollywood narrowly believed he could perform as and set out to play characters and people who could inspire a new generation of African Americans and show the rest of the country that they were more than a stereotype.

When that young kid in that final scene asks, “Who are you?” and T’Challa smiles its because he knows he’s already changing hearts and minds for the future, just as Chadwick did playing this truly inspirational role.

“Black Panther” is not a perfect movie. I could discuss the ways it could’ve been better and even, less problematic in parts on a different day, but the legacy it leaves behind is one that’s undeniably positive and Chadwick was able to make that a reality. Perhaps he understood that if the world knew his diagnosis it would blunt the impact of “Black Panther’s” release, that if little kids and African Americans alike knew their superhero was already dying it would mar the film’s positivity and influence. I can’t speak for the dead obviously, and in no way am I saying one should just push through a cancer diagnosis and keep it secret, but I can see Chadwick understanding what it would mean for the audience if they just believed for as long as possible that they would have their king of Wakanda forever.

As Robert Downey Jr. said on social media last night “He leveled the playing field while fighting for his life.”

Though I will never know him personally, by most measures Chadwick seemed to be exactly the kind of hero he showed up to be on the big screen and his legacy will ultimately be that of one who looked to inspire others, particularly the next generation until his final breath. If that doesn’t make him a hero, I don’t know what does.

Rest in power, King. Wakanda Forever…

(Via BossLogic)

[fishfingersandjellybabies]

Beyond the Mountains - fic

Characters: Jon Kent, Damian Wayne, Ra’s al Ghul, Dick Grayson, Bruce Wayne, bits of Tim, Conner, Terry Pairing: jondami Summary: There was a new Batman in town, but it wasn’t Damian. No, Damian returned to the League of Assassins with his grandfather. Jon married him anyway. A/N: A batman beyond ‘verse kind of?? based on the comics! Referenced the two arcs Damian are in in Batman Beyond currently (like, 10-13 and 43 through current) a few times in here, but also changed a few of the canon details. Since the current arc Damian is in in BB is not yet out, I bs’d the end and I’m sorry it sucks. I imagine Jon being the hot/dorky high school teacher so...that’s what he is haha. Also reminder that I am nooooooo good at sex scenes haha. I worked a fuck ton on this, so if you like it, please consider checking out my ko-fi or patreon! 

~~

Jon was used to Damian breaking into his house in the middle of the night. He’d done it since they were kids. Jon had started breaking into Damian’s house right back when they began dating. It was a thing between them. Their thing.

But this time. This was different.

The bright light shining through the window woke him up first. It was blinding, and he had no idea what it was. Was it daytime? Did he sleep in? Impossible, his parents would have never let him, despite being nearly twenty-three years old, and a guest.

Next, he caught on to the wind, the sound of something hovering. The light was coming from an airship? Batman? Wonder Woman? One of the Lanterns? Was there an emergency?

But as he sat up, he saw a shape drop onto his windowsill. A familiar one, one that put his heart at ease almost always.

But…it didn’t this time.

Because Damian’s silhouette was wrong. There was no cape, or even pointy-eared mask like there should have been. In fact, he seemed to only be wearing what he always wore under one of those uniforms. Compression leggings and long-sleeved shirt.

“Damian?” Jon asked as he sat up, and Damian dropped to the floor. “What’s going on?”

“Nothing you need to worry about. But I’m not staying.” Damian explained quickly as he came into view. His face looked hollow, eyes dark. “I just…I just needed to see you before I left.”

“Left?” Jon kicked his blankets off, stumbling to his feet. Damian wasn’t the type to throw words like ‘left’ around easily. “What do you mean? You’re…you’re leaving?”

“Yes.”

“Wha…where are you going? What happened?” As an afterthought. “Is your dad okay?”

“He’s fine. In Gotham where he belongs. I…” Damian looked away. “I’m going with my grandfather.”

“No.” Jon stepped forward, grabbed Damian’s biceps. “You are absolutely not going with him, and I don’t care what he said or who he threatened, he cannot make you do anything you don’t want-”

“But I do.” Damian whispered. “I…I want to go. And I’m going of my free will. No one is forcing me.”

“No.” Jon was shaking his head. “No. I don’t believe you. You would never-”

“What my father is doing isn’t working, Jon.” Damian pleaded. “And his scope isn’t wide enough. His vision is today, not the future. But that’s what we need to work towards. That’s what my grandfather envisions.”

Jon was still shaking his head, still squeezing Damian’s arms. “No way-”

“I didn’t come here to debate.” Damian sighed, closing his eyes. Carefully, he wiggled his way out of Jon’s grip. “I just came to say goodbye.”

Before Jon could say anything else, Damian took a soft hold of his face and kissed him. It was heavy, desperate, but gentle, and so clearly apologetic. But even as Jon began to shift his arms to hold on to Damian’s waist, keep him there forever, Damian slipped away and was back to the window.

He looked back only once, then disappeared back into the dark.

~~

To say Jon was furious was an understatement.

It’d been weeks since Damian disappeared. Weeks. And when he first went back to Gotham to tell him what Damian had said to him, Bruce hadn’t been surprised. Said he knew, and that he was looking for Damian himself.

And for a while, he gave Jon updates. Called him every few days with his new leads or any evidence he may have found.

Then he stopped.

And when Jon showed up in Gotham a few weeks after, he saw some kid with Bruce, at Wayne Enterprises. Same dark hair, athletic build and eager face as the rest of them.

“You’re not looking for Damian at all, are you?” Jon snapped as he burst into the office, ignoring all security and secretaries. “You’ve already…moved on, haven’t you?”

“You know that’s not true, Jon.” Bruce countered, weakly standing in front of this new boy.

“Do I? You stopped calling me with your leads.”

“Because none are panning out.” Bruce promised. “I don’t want to get your hopes up.”

“Yeah, okay.” Jon huffed. “…All this time, I defended you to Damian. But here, it turns out he was right all these years. You never gave a shit about him.”

“Jonathan!” Bruce admonished, face filling with his own anger.

“Save it.” Jon waved him off as a security guard grabbed his shoulder and pulled him back. “I’ll just go find him myself.”

~~

Nanda Parbat.

He’d never heard of it before, not even from Damian. But this lead came from Tim, through Conner, and not Bruce, so Jon believed it. Especially with Tim’s own unfortunate ties to Ra’s al Ghul.

It was freezing here, and Jon was almost starting to doubt Tim’s intel of a secret village, when a barrage of arrows came out of nowhere in the fog. They barely missed him, just as he almost missed the bola swinging straight for his throat.

In the moment of being overwhelmed with weapons, he lost track of where he was going, and found himself bouncing off the sharp edge of a jutting cliff, falling out of the air like a crashing plane.

The landing was surprisingly soft, thanks to the snow that he plopped into. But when he rolled over and opened his eyes, he found himself surrounded by a circle of masked assassins, each one holding a matching sword to his throat.

“Um…ow.” He murmured, rubbing his head. Slowly he raised his hands. “I, uh…come in peace?”

“You should not have come at all.” A voice called further away. The assassins all backed up a step, and some shifted to allow him to see. An old man had spoken, older than anyone Jon had ever seen.

Damian stood behind him.

“Surely the Detective has told you.” The man – Ra’s, Jon assumed – said. “You are not welcome here, Superma-”

Ra’s trailed off as Jon sat up. As he slowly got to his feet and ignored the danger of death all around him.

“You are not the Superman I am aware of.” Ra’s countered. Damian, still silent behind him, let his eyes grow wide. Jon grinned back at him. “But the rules still apply to you, and you are as unwelcome here as the original Superman is…”

Jon tuned him out as he moved forward. One of the assassins stuck his sword in front of him, and Jon just bent it in half as his walk turned into a run, and he all but barreled towards Damian.

He hit him head on, like a freight train, almost knocked him over, really. But Damian caught him anyway. Wrapped his arms around Jon’s neck as Jon wrapped his around Damian’s waist.

“You’re here.” Damian gasped, shifting his hand to clutch at Jon’s hair. “You’re here, you…you…what are you doing here?!”

“Looking for you, obviously.” Jon smiled against his throat. “I mean…last I checked, you’re still my boyfriend.”

Damian’s fingers twitched against his head.

“Unless that lame ass goodbye you gave me was supposed to also be a breakup.” Jon smirked. “And if that’s the case, I didn’t get the message, and also don’t accept.”

“It doesn’t matter what you are to him.” Ra’s reinserted himself into the conversation. “We don’t allow visitors of any sort here, least of all unannounced ones.”

Jon backed up a little bit, but only enough to turn. He kept Damian in his arms. “I’m not leaving without him.”

“Then I’m afraid you won’t be leaving here alive, Little Superman.”

Damian was instantly between them. “A few nights, Grandfather. Please.” Ra’s narrowed his eyes at him. “He was unaware of the rules, and their strictness. He should not be executed for his ignorance.”

“We don’t make exceptions here, Damian. You know that.”

“I also know I am the heir to your throne, and as future Demon’s Head, can do as I please.” Damian countered. “I’m only asking as a courtesy, out of respect for you. Now, either you let him stay, or I let him carry me away, and decide later if I wish to actually return.”

Ra’s frowned. “Watch yourself, Damian.”

Damian merely raised his chin. It’d look regal, if he wasn’t still half corralled into Jon’s arms.

“…Fine. He may stay.” Ra’s spun away, waving to the nearby assassins to stand down. “This time. Inform him of the rules, and remind him that he won’t get this mercy next time.”

Damian glanced back up at Jon, who gave him his best grin. “…Yes, sir.”

~~

“Who told you about this place?” Damian asked. “Or how to find it?”

“Tim, technically.” Jon hummed from the bed, watching as Damian slowly walked around the room, lighting candles as he went. It gave the space a warm, comforting glow. “Well, I mean, Conner told me. But the info was from Tim.”

Damian nodded. “Guess I have to kill him, then.”

Jon laughed and rolled to his side. He couldn’t stop staring at Damian as he moved. He was graceful, yes, but it was more his clothes. Loose pants under an open, deep green robe.

Even in his pajamas, he looked royal. Like a king.

(Like his king.)

He himself was just in borrowed clothes. Offered the same as what Damian wore, but only took the dark green pants. Robes were never his thing.

“Well unfortunately, I won’t let you do that.” Jon laughed, ducking his eyes only a little when Damian looked back at him. “…He misses you, by the way.”

“Oh, I’m sure.” Damian said dryly. “He and Father both, right?”

Jon sighed. “…I don’t know what Bruce is doing, but Dick, Tim and them…they never stopped looking for you. In fact, I told them I’d contact them if I found you.”

“I’d rather you didn’t.” Damian hummed.

“Why, want to hide all the terrible al Ghul secrets from them?” Jon smirked. “I mean, doesn’t Tim already know most of them?”

“He does I suppose, but that’s not why.” He finished lighting the last candle and blew out the match between his fingers. He carefully put the smoldering piece in a nearby ashtray and turned fully towards Jon. “I want to spend time with you.” Damian admitted. “Uninterrupted.”

Jon felt his cheeks heat up instantly. He suddenly remembered that he was, gloriously, only half clothed. And that the only extra piece of clothing Damian had, the robe, was light and easily rippable.

“And you know if you contacted them, they’d attempt some kind of rescue mission, and come in guns blazing, etcetera, etcetera.” Damian drawled as he waved his hand around, walked towards the bed, and sat on its edge. “And that would just waste our time together, wouldn’t it?”

Jon smiled and flopped his hand out for Damian to take. Damian did so instantly, leaning down to drape himself across Jon’s chest.

“…You sure it can only be a few days?” Jon whispered as Damian trailed his fingers along his cheekbone. “Sure you really don’t just want to come back with me?”

“Want to, of course. We could get that log cabin in the middle of the forest you’ve always talked about.” Damian lamented, even as Jon dragged their combined fingers to his mouth and kissed them. “But I need to stay.”

“Why?”

“I can do good here.” Damian offered. “I can…learn things. Maybe one day put them to good use, or, heaven forbid, tell them to my father. Work together to save the world, and all that.”

Jon kissed at his fingers again. “And where do I fit in that plan?”

Damian hesitated, then sighed, attempted to pull his hand away and sit up, but Jon didn’t let him. Clung to his fingers, and wrapped his free hand around Damian’s back.

“It’s just a question.” He promised. “Not an accusation.”

“I…suppose I had hoped you’d take my last visit to you as an ending to our relationship.” Damian admitted sheepishly. “Not because I don’t-”

“I know.” Jon smiled, kissed his hand again.

“…I’d hoped you’d forget about me. Move on. Find happiness elsewhere.”

Jon grinned, pulling Damian down farther. “Impossible.”

Damian pursed his lips. “Well, it would have made my plan a lot easier.”

“I’d say sorry if I was.” Jon released their hands to hold the side of Damian’s face. “But we both know I’m not.”

He felt Damian’s smile as he pushed their mouths together. Damian melted against him immediately, hands running up his sides to curl into his chest.

Jon’s heart pounded, and he could feel the fast beat of Damian’s through his jaw. His hand twitched, nails just biting into Damian’s skin.

God, he missed this. Missed him.

“How…many?” He gasped as one of Damian’s hands found their way into his hair. “Days? How many days can I stay?”

Damian hummed. “Three at most.” He answered when parted for a quick inhale. “Four, if I begged, perhaps.”

“You, begging? I’d love to hear it.” Jon laughed as he shifted to begin kissing along Damian’s jaw. Damian pinched at his collarbone. “Any way we can extend my visit indefinitely? Or gain unlimited visiting access without potentially getting murdered?”

Damian hummed again, pulling back to lean thoughtfully on his elbow.

“…There are not many, I don’t believe. At least, not many that would apply to you.” Damian thought out loud. Jon reached up to tuck a lock of hair behind Damian’s ear, then ran his hand down to his shoulder, where he began to subtly push Damian’s robe off. “Members of governments and armies we are having dealings with and spouses are all that come time mind.”

Jon’s hand stopped on the curve of his arm. “Spouses?” He blurted. “People are married here?”

“Not many, but a few. Higher generals and some of the scientists, maybe. My bodyguard, Koru. He is. I’ll introduce you to some of their children in the morning, they’ll enjoy you.” Damian shrugged. “At least two of Grandfather’s wives stayed here in their lifetimes.”

But when Damian looked back towards Jon’s face he frowned. Jon was smiling.

“…What?”

“There’s our solution, then.”

“I beg your pardon?”

“We get married. I become husband to the next Demon’s Head.” Jon’s grin grew impossibly wider. “Problem solved.”

Damian scoffed, sitting up completely. Jon released him only reluctantly.

“That’s ridiculous.” Damian snapped. “You can’t marry someone just to have unlimited…as Todd would put it, booty calls.”

“One, rude that you believe I think of visiting you as purely earth-shattering sexcapades.” Jon pushed himself up onto his forearms. “Two, also rude that you don’t think I’d want to marry you because, I don’t know, I love you?”

Damian just glared at him.

“Don’t look at me like that, we’ve said I love you to each other before. Many times.” Jon countered. “I mean, I know we haven’t said it since, you know, you ghosted everyone for three months, but still.”

“Marriage is a big decision.” Damian countered. “And I’m not letting you make such a spur of the moment decision on my account.”

“Who said it was spur of the moment?” Jon demanded. “I’ve been thinking about this for ages.”

Damian snorted. “You have not.”

“Have so. Ask your sister.” Jon countered. “She was helping me for weeks to figure out what kind of design I wanted for a ring, and had scouted a bunch of jewelry stores in Gotham and Metropolis. We were planning on checking them out the weekend you disappeared.”

Damian just stared at him. But there was less annoyance in his face now, more wonder. His eyes glowed in the dim light from the candles.

“I mean, we never made it to the stores, so I don’t have a ring. But I’ll go fly out to one of the mountains outside and make one out of stone if you want me to.” Jon sat up completely now. “I’ll even get down on one knee if you want that too.”

Damian just stared up at him. His cheeks were rosy, and Jon wanted to kiss him again, but now that he’d started down this path, he had a feeling it would be awkward if he just stopped his weird admittance of adoration to make out some more.

“I always thought we’d have a giant wedding, you and me.” Jon whispered with a dreamy smile. “But…this is an opportunity. This is a good opening. We’re together, we’re alive. And it kills me to think about, but when is our next chance to be both those things together?” He looked down, and took Damian’s hand between both of his own. “I…forgot, until I saw you again, outside. How much I missed you. How lonely I was. How worried. How miserable. How much I…worship the fucking ground you walk on, Damian.”

Damian didn’t say a word.

“Is it a means to an end? Well, if the end is me not getting killed for just stepping foot here, then to some it may look like that. But it’s not.” Jon hummed, stroking his thumb along one of Damian’s knuckles. “It’s just…no time like the present, you know? Potentially getting murdered gives us a good reason to get it done. To not wait, or hesitate.”

Damian stared at their hands.

“And I…I realized. When I saw you again. I don’t want another day without you. I don’t want another day without being yours.” Jon squinted, feeling tears welling up in his eyes. “Even if marriage wasn’t a potential solution, and I mean, you said maybe, you didn’t even say sure thing. But even if it wasn’t, even if Ra’s locked me up for staying too long, or showing up again, that’s fine. I’d be here with you, so I’d be happy anyway.”

“…It’d have to be long distance.” Damian murmured, turning his hand in Jon’s grip. “I can’t leave here. But I refuse to damn you to stay in this place forever too.”

“I know. I have stuff I need to do back home, too. A job and hero stuff. I’m not going to stop helping people or anything like that. But hey, it might work in our favor. I can be your eyes and ears back home. Keep you in the loop in case anything serious happens, and you need to come back, if only for a day or two.” Jon tilted his head. “And now that I know where Nanda Parbat is, I can be here every week. Every night.”

Damian looked up at him, eyes wide and almost disbelieving.

“And it’s weird to say, but you’d be safe here. No one will be able to find you, except me.” Jon smiled. “My very own prince hidden away and guarded by an evil dragon.”

Damian quirked a smile at that. “…We’d have to do it quickly. The wedding I mean. Before your three day time limit is up. After informing Grandfather, of course.” His smile faltered. “You wouldn’t get the big wedding you wanted.”

“I didn’t say I wanted a big wedding. I just said I always imagined that’s what it’d be, with both of us knowing so many people, and, you know, being Superman and Batman’s sons.” He squeezed Damian’s hand. “I’m more interested in the act than the event.”

“Oh, the wedding night?” Damian teased, rolling his eyes. “Of course you are.”

“Stooop.” Jon drawled as he threw his head back with a laugh. “I do not want to marry you so we can have, as you put it, secret mountain village booty calls whenever I can come out here.”

He heard Damian laugh too. Felt Damian squeeze his hand. “…Yes.”

The answer was soft, almost inaudible. Jon lowered his head to look Damian in the eyes, the tears in his threatening to overflow. “What?”

“Yes, I will marry you.” Damian whispered. “It would be my greatest honor.”

Jon felt a tear escape even as he leaned forward and engulfed Damian in his arms. Felt Damian wipe it away as he twisted his head to kiss him. Felt Damian’s own tears drip onto his face as they fell back into the bed together.

~~

In the middle of the night, he reluctantly slipped out of the warmth of Damian’s bed and tiptoed to the door. He slowly slid it open and stuck his head out, glancing around for the one Damian called Koru, the bodyguard.

“Pst!” He hissed when he saw him, just down the hall. Koru narrowed his eyes, but quickly pattered over. “Can you do me a favor?”

Koru frowned. “No.”

“Why no…oh. Right.” Jon whispered. “You can leave your post, I promise I won’t tell. And I promise I’ll protect him in the meantime.” He let his eyes glow red as he pointed at them. “I’ve got heat vision and super strength and all that. He’s in good hands.”

Koru’s eyes had widened slightly. “…What do you want?”

“Go out and find the coolest stones you can find. As many as you want, but at least two.”

“What for?”

“A secret, but I promise it’s not a weapon. And I promise you’ll find out tomorrow.”

Koru hesitated for a moment, then huffed. “Fine. But if any of his blood is spilled, I will have your head.”

“Perfect.” Jon gave him a thumbs up. “Knock twice when you’re back?”

“…Yes, sir.”

“Cool.” Jon grinned at him and slid the door shut once more.

~~

In all his years, in all his fantasies of getting married to Damian, the one thing he never thought was that he’d be getting married by the one and only Ra’s al Ghul.

He was ordained. In at least six different religions, and all countries but Norway. Who knew?

Ra’s wasn’t thrilled when Damian barged into his quarters the next morning, Jon in tow, to inform him of their intentions. If anything, he seemed most annoyed at the fact that Damian had upturned his plans for the day, and entered the room without knocking or any of the formalities he was supposed to perform.

He didn’t seem surprised, though.

“His mother fell in love with the Batman, and he fell in love with the future Superman.” Ra’s sighed in answer to Jon’s question as servants suddenly swarmed the room, dragging Damian away for wedding preparations. “It follows a pattern. Why should I be surprised?” Another group of women came into the room and began pushing him out of it as well. “Your ceremony is at dusk. Don’t be late.”

He didn’t see Damian the rest of the day, but it’s not like he was given a chance to notice. He was fed and, awkwardly, bathed. He was presented with what appeared to be traditional robes, made of the nicest materials he’d ever seen in his life, and stood on a stool as the clothes were tailored and hemmed by some of the women – “Call us your grannies, little American boy.” The eldest of them said – for the rest of the afternoon.

It was…nice, though. The women were kind, and the assassins sent as guards were respectful. Jon even got a few of them to smile. The children who were following their working mothers chattered his ear off, in between drawing pictures of him and ‘Prince Damian’ as they jokingly called him, and creating colorful crowns and headbands for him from the scraps of fabric scattered around the room.

After a light dinner that, against the instructions and commands of all the adults in the room, Jon ate with the children, there was a quiet knock on the door before it opened to reveal Koru, Damian’s bodyguard.

His clothes were much finer than the battle-ready armour Jon had seen him in since he arrived, and he felt a sense of honor wash through his system at the thought.

“It’s time.” Koru mumbled. Jon stumbled to his feet, and practically ran after him. The women and the children cheered in his wake, sending salutations and well-wishes after him.

Koru led him outside and down a path that seemed to leave the small village completely. Suddenly, the path took a sharp incline into the hills surrounding them, and Jon felt like they were walking into the clouds.

The end of the path opened into a clearing of pure stone, a cliff jutting into emptiness. The sky around them was a deep orange, the sun, giving off rays of golden light through passing clouds, merely a sphere of blood red on the horizon.

It was beautiful.

But Jon didn’t even see it.

Because Damian was there, with Ra’s and Goliath, standing on the edge of the world. His hands clasped behind his back as he surveyed the cold earth below him.

He and Ra’s were in similar clothing, both green with golden accents, but Damian’s seemed a little more formal. The golden patterns a little more detailed, a sword fastened on his hip with a sash.

He looked a like a king on his coronation day.

And he was breathtaking.

The snow crunching under their feet alerted the others to their presence, and Damian spun around instantly. His eyes widened at the sight of Jon, and Jon had a feeling he was just as enamored with what he saw as he himself was.

Koru didn’t go with him as he walked forward, but he didn’t notice. He didn’t notice anything, Damian was the only thing that existed. Not the cold, not the assassins, not their superhero fathers.

Nothing.

“Stunning.” Damian breathed as Jon reached him. Jon smiled as he reached for his hands. Damian grabbed at them greedily.

“Those ladies know what they’re doing.” Jon laughed. He looked Damian up and down, then blinked, and looked at himself. “Oh…oh, that’s cute.”

“Hm?”

“The robes.” Jon grinned, nodding down to his dark yellow clothing, with green embroidery. “Mine’s the opposite of yours. You know, minus the sword part.”

“…Indeed.” Damian hummed, seemingly just noticing it himself. He smiled. “Very…cute.”

Ra’s suddenly cleared his throat. “Are you two ready?”

“Yes, sir.” Jon answered instantly.

“Don’t expect anything overly sentimental, Mr. Kent.” Ra’s warned, pulling a notebook from his own jacket. “This will be quick.”

“The quicker the better.” Jon grinned, squeezing Damian’s hands. Damian smiled warmly back. “Honestly, we can say our personal vows later. You can just skip the to ‘I do’ part, Ra’s and it’d be – oh!”

Damian frowned. “What?”

“I forgot.” He turned. “Koru? You still have them?”

“Of course.” Koru scoffed, offended. He reached into his pocket and pulled out something Damian couldn’t see, dropping it into Jon’s outstretched hand. When Jon pulled his hand back, Damian couldn’t help but gape.

Two rings, made out of the black stone of the mountains surrounding the village.

“Told you I’d make you one.” Jon said sheepishly.

“When?”

“Last night, when you were sleeping.” Jon laughed. “You’re a heavy sleeper when you’re happy.”

Damian’s face reddened with embarrassment, but Jon paid it no mind. Instead, he reluctantly let go of Damian’s hand, only to slowly slip the ring on. Ra’s took the hint, and began reciting the vow for Jon to repeat.

Jon didn’t hear a word he said. Repeated on autopilot, waited until he had permission to say the two words he wanted to most.

“I do.”

And Jon could have sworn that Ra’s said the vows slower for Damian, just to torture them both. So instead, he focused on the warmth of Damian’s fingers as he gifted him with the second ring. Laughed as Damian then reeled Jon in, wrapping his arms tightly around his waist.

He was already descending as he whispered, “I do.”

The universe restarted when they kissed; the second coming of the Big Bang. It took all Jon had not to clutch at Damian as tight as he could, and float off into the sky like a runaway balloon.

When they parted, Jon leaned their foreheads together. Goliath shrieked happily into the darkening sky.

“I love you.” He murmured, running his thumb along Damian’s cheek. “More than…than…I don’t even know what. Everything.”

Damian chuckled as Ra’s stepped away.

“You’ll both catch your death out here if you stay much longer. And it would be rude of you to die before your own reception.” He called over his shoulder. Jon leaned back, staring after the old man in confusion. Ra’s grinned. “The al Ghul heir just married. Even I am not so cruel as to say that’s not a time for celebration.”

Damian took his hand, tugging him along a few feet behind Ra’s and Koru. Goliath stayed behind them. “Why do you think no one else was up here, Beloved? They were preparing the food for the wedding feast.”

~~

The party was a blur. But the best night of Jon’s life.

There was music, and dancing. He danced with the women who dressed him, and even a few of the assassins who, literally a day before, had swords to his throat. Ra’s even shook his hand at some point in the evening, muttering a tender. “Love him properly, or I’ll rip your throat out with my own hands.”

He danced with Damian, and they both danced with the children. Jon watched in amazement as the kids swarmed Damian, presenting him with tiny gifts like a flower or drawing, or those cloth crowns they’d made him earlier. Smiled as Damian thanked each child individually, let them climb all over him and drag him this way and that.

He thought he understood why they called him their Prince now.

But the best part, the most magical part of the night, was when the party was over, and they went back to Damian’s quarters. When Damian lit all those candles again and then came to the bed and laid in his arms.

There was no sex. Jon probably wouldn’t have wanted it even if it were offered. There was just basking in the presence of each other. Staring at each other in the dim, warm glow of the candles. Holding hands that now bore matching rings. Holding each other.

“Beloved.” Damian whispered. Jon closed his eyes, and hid his face in Damian’s throat. Damian ran his fingers through his hair. “My dear Beloved.”

It was the best night of Jon’s life.

~~

He stayed for another two weeks. He befriended many of those living in the compound, and helped where he could, where he didn’t think his morals would be tested. Painting the kitchen and planting in the greenhouse, not sitting in on treaty negotiations or looking over scientific blueprints like Damian was with Ra’s.

But two weeks still wasn’t long enough, and saying goodbye – that he’d call, that he’d visit whenever he could, that he’d still listen for his heartbeat every second of every day – still ripped his soul out.

And Damian had smiled, but Jon could see the pain behind it anyway.

Because they both knew that along with missing each other, it would be hard. Because Jon couldn’t tell anyone. Didn’t want to tell anyone. Because Damian was his, and he couldn’t let anyone know he knew where he was. Where the League of Assassins was. Wouldn’t put him in that danger. Wouldn’t put those families and children he’d met and come to already love in that danger.

(Knew despite the acceptance of the marriage, if Damian got out of line, Ra’s would threaten Jon. Use Jon against Damian any chance he got.)

So he couldn’t brag about his husband. Couldn’t tell his parents he was married, couldn’t tell Dick, worried out of his mind, where his brother was. Had to lie about the ring on his finger. Yes, it was where you put a wedding band, but if he was married, he would have said something! Obviously! Besides, who would he marry? His last boyfriend disappeared into the wind!

And then most obvious problem. Jon was still a superhero. Damian the heir to one of the largest underground crime organizations in the world. Emergencies arose. Schedules were changed. There was never a promise of when they would see each other next. Never a promise that either of them would be alive tomorrow.

And that just sucked.

~~

It was about a year and a half later, and Jon was sitting at his desk. The final bell had just rung on a Friday afternoon, and his students were gone for a long weekend. He just had to finish marking down the grades of Wednesday’s tests, schedule a parent-teacher conference or two and then put in that maintenance request to Phyllis, then he could go enjoy the long weekend himself.

A three-day weekend in the mountains sounded great right about now.

So he was a little embarrassed when the gentle knock on his doorframe made him jump. But the embarrassment was quickly replaced by surprise.

“Dick?” He asked incredulously.

Dick Grayson, newly minted mayor of Bludhaven, stood there, a smirk almost hidden by the beard around it. Jon still couldn’t get used to that facial hair, no matter how long he’d had it.

“Howdy, Jon.”

“W-what are you doing here?” Jon scrambled to his feet. “Everything okay?”

“Fine, fine.�� Dick waved off, leaning against one of the desks. “It’d just…been a while.”

“I suppose…” Jon trailed off suspiciously. “But I’ve known your family long enough to know that no one just stops by without reason.”

Dick laughed. “You always did spend way too much time with Damian. Sounds like something he’d say.” That smirk widened. “How is he, by the way?”

Jon’s heart sputtered, but he kept his face the same. “How would I know? I haven’t seen him since he disappeared, just like you. What’s it been, two years now?”

“Well, I mean. I just figured you’d seen him since then.” Dick shrugged nonchalantly. “With you being his husband, and all.”

Jon opened his mouth to respond, to give the same lies as always, when Dick suddenly reached into his jacket and pulled out a folded piece of paper. He unfolded it, and skimmed it before showing it to Jon.

A marriage certificate.

Jon knew there was one. Knew Ra’s and his League was able to pull strings and get one expedited for their cliff side ceremony. He’d signed it, Damian signed it, Ra’s and Koru signed it. Then it was discreetly put into the United States’ system. No fanfare, no newspaper or tabloid announcements, no one knowing it was even there to look for either.

Jon closed his mouth and gulped. “…How did you find that?”

“Being a mayor gives you some privileges, I’ve found.” Dick hummed, even as Jon came around his desk and took the paper from his hand. “And I found myself missing my brother the other day, so I looked him up. Thought I might find some more recent activity or sightings. And here this was, right on the first page.”

They stood in silence. Jon staring at the paper and Dick staring at him.

“Dick, I-”

“Why didn’t you tell us?” Dick asked instantly, the hint of pain in his voice. “Why did you lie about that ring on your finger? Hell, why didn’t you tell us at the very least where he was?”

“Because Bruce stopped looking for him.” Jon said coldly. “And don’t defend him, Dick. You know he did. He stopped looking when that McGinnis kid showed up. And I don’t blame the kid, it’s not his fault, it’s just how Bruce is.” A deep inhale. “And then you know how Bruce is with Ra’s. He already had a feeling Ra’s took Damian, or Damian went with him, or whatever, so even if he found Damian, you know he would have gone in pissed off and wouldn’t have listened. Would have jumped to conclusions. Would have potentially hurt him.”

“…Okay, I’ll agree to that potential.” Dick admitted. “But, Jon, why didn’t you tell me?”

“Because nobody could know, Dick. Nobody.” Jon said. “My parents don’t even know.”

“Famed investigative journalist Lois Lane doesn’t know?” Dick asked incredulously. “I don’t believe you.”

“Well maybe she does, I don’t know. But she took my word and hasn’t pushed the issue.” Jon shrugged. “If she and Dad are playing purposefully ignorant, that’s fine. That means Damian’s safe.”

“He’s not safe with Ra’s, Jon. I know you know that.” Dick countered.

“I do. And so does Damian. But he’s biding his time.” Jon explained. “He’s working from the inside. He wants to save the planet like Ra’s does, but he’s trying to manipulate the organization from within, make their methods more like Batman’s. Kinder.”

Dick shook his head. “He can’t do it by himself. He’s crazy if he thinks he can.”

“Well.” Jon smiled. A sad, lovesick smile. “Then he’s crazy.”

Dick frowned, ran a hand through his hair. “…I have to see him, Jon.”

“You can’t.” Jon stepped forward. “And you can’t tell anyone either.”

“Why the hell not?”

“Because even if Bruce doesn’t make a move, word will get back to the League that they’ve been found.” Jon’s eyes widened. “And they’ll know it’ll be through me. They’ll know it’s because I spilled the beans and then Ra’s will punish Damian for it.”

Dick pressed his lips together.

“You know he will.” Jon breathed. “And until…until Damian can change the League or until I can convince him to come back, that’s not a risk I’m willing to take.” A second to think. “And I’d hope it’s not one you would either.”

Dick turned his head away and closed his eyes.

“…On one condition.” Dick said after a moment. “You put me in contact with him.”

“What?”

When Dick looked back, he suddenly seemed like he’d aged ten years. “I just want to talk to my little brother again, Jon.”

Jon pursed his lips, spun that stone ring with his thumb.

Damian was going to kill him. It was a secure line for just the two of them. But…

“…Fine.”

~~

Most of the time, people were sick of snow by mid-February. Jon wasn’t though. And despite the fact that his school district had called for a snow day, he was up at his normal time. Only instead of rushing to the school, he took a leisurely walk to a nearby coffee shop to give himself a little reward for once.

A nice caramel-chocolate latte with extra whipped cream.

He was just exiting the shop, deciding to go to the park to have his treat. Just glancing up into the gently falling snowflakes.

“Beloved?”

Jon spun around so fast, he almost launched his coffee into a nearby window.

“Dames?”

And it was, Damian stood right there, looking far too fashionable than any human had a right to be. A gray pea coat with a blue scarf wrapped neatly around his neck. Black leather gloves, one of which held a bouquet of flowers, dark jeans and black combat boots.

Jon’s heart soared.

“Dames!” He shouted, running at him and jumping into his arms. Damian chuckled, returning the embrace. “What are you doing here?”

“I had meetings in San Francisco yesterday, and decided to stop by on my way home.” Damian smiled as he pulled back, and presented the flowers. “It seemed that it would be…rude not to, given the occasion.”

Jon took the flowers. “Occasion?” He sniffed at the petals. “What’s the occasion?”

Damian blinked, then laughed. “Jon, I think you’ve been working too hard, if you’ve forgotten.”

Jon closed his eyes. “It’s not our anniversary, I know that.”

“You didn’t have a party with your students?” Damian asked. “Or, I suppose that tradition ends after elementary school.”

Jon racked his brain. “The…Super Bowl?”

Damian laughed again. “Valentine’s Day, Beloved.”

“Oh my-” Jon gaped. He glanced into the coffee shop’s window. Paper hearts adorned the walls in decoration. “Oh my god. I forgot Valentine’s Day.”

Damian laughed for a third time, reeling Jon into his arms.

“I can’t believe I forgot Valentine’s Day.” Jon lamented, leaning against Damian’s shoulder. “Divorce me, Damian. I forgot Valentine’s Day.”

“Never.” Damian said warmly. “I know your classes were cancelled today. Have any other plans?”

“Honestly, I was just going to watch cartoons all day.” Jon admitted sheepishly. “But now I just want to spend all day with you.”

“That can be arranged.”

“…How long are you in town?” Jon whispered. “How long can you be in town?”

“Two days.” Damian returned, with a kiss to Jon’s forehead.

“Then we better make it count.” Jon decided, leaning up and capturing Damian’s lips with his own. When he allowed Damian to pull back, he smiled. “Hope you like take out.”

“Oh? Why?”

“Because baby, you are not leaving my bed for the next forty-eight hours.”

Once more, Damian laughed as Jon clutched his flowers and coffee to his chest in one hand, grabbed Damian’s hand with the other, and all but dragged him down the street.

~~

The phone rang in the middle of the night.

Jon didn’t jump, phone calls in the middle of the night weren’t new. And he didn’t bother to look at the caller ID. He supposed it didn’t really matter. If they had his number and they were calling now, it was enough.

Still, when he hit answer, he couldn’t help but slur, “Hm?”

“It’s me.” Damian whispered, his voice trembling. He seemed to hesitate, thinking what he was going to say next. “It’s done.”

Jon sat up. “Sweetheart?” He asked. “What’s done? What’s wrong?”

“Ra’s is dead.” Damian said simply. “I…I am now the sole leader of the League of Assassins.”

“Oh, Damian.” Jon cooed. He threw his covers back. “Give me thirty minutes, okay? I just need…I need to grab some pants and I’ll be there.”

And he was. In less than thirty minutes, really. Closer to twenty.

Koru was waiting for him at the compound entrance. He nodded solemnly, then silently led Jon to where he needed to be.

Jon could hear people wailing in the distance. Word must have spread already. And he’d forgotten – Ra’s was a monster. A villain. Evil.

But he meant something to the people here.

Koru led him to a large, ornate door. He opened it, and gestured for Jon to go inside.

The room was dark, but it didn’t matter. Even if he didn’t already see him standing next to that bed, the sound of his heartbeat would have guided him.

He only glanced at the dead body. It was Ra’s alright, and even without the lack of a heartbeat, Jon could tell by the color of his skin he was gone.

But he didn’t care, if he was honest. Never cared about that old man, never cared about what he was doing so long as it was held in check. He only cared about Damian.

Jon stepped up behind him, carefully wrapping his arms around his waist, pulled him back into his chest.

“I’m sorry.” He whispered.

Damian shrugged. “We knew it was coming.”

“That doesn’t make it hurt any less.” Jon tried. “You’re allowed to grieve.”

“There was no love lost between Ra’s and I, so there’s no need.” Damian pushed back. “I just…wasn’t ready.”

Damian pulled away and turned towards him.

“I…I didn’t have enough time to gain the loyalty I needed.” Damian sighed. “Many…many here do not trust me. Or do not believe in me.”

“I believe in you.” Jon offered.

Damian smiled sadly. “Unfortunately, Beloved, your opinion does not matter to the assassins now under my rule.” The smile disappeared. “I’ve already been visited by one of my grandfather’s most loyal scientists. He and I have never agreed, and he’s never trusted me. I sense that will get worse in the coming days.”

Jon frowned. “Do you want me to stay? In case he tries anything?”

“He won’t. He’d be stupid to do anything during these days of mourning.” Damian promised. “And Koru is more than capable. I am more than capable.”

“I’d feel better if I did, though.” Jon shrugged. “I don’t want you to be alone right now.”

Damian’s eyes suddenly twitched over Jon’s shoulder. Jon turned and found an older man passing by the door. He had white hair, and wearing an odd metal suit of armor.

The man glanced in at him and frowned at Jon. Seemed to frown at Damian too. But he didn’t say anything, just continued on his way.

When Jon turned back, Damian was looking at him again, his face warm. “You’re too sweet, Beloved.” He gently took Jon’s hand. “Now come. Since you’re here, you can stay for the funeral at dawn.” A snorted smirk. “Superman attending the funeral of Ra’s al Ghul. Isn’t the world a funny place?”

~~

Jon was woken by a rapid knocking on his apartment door. Damian must have heard it too, as he was suddenly trying to burrow into Jon’s side.

“I’m going to buy your building a doorman.” Damian mumbled as Jon reluctantly rolled away from him. “So then no one can knock on your door. Ever.”

The knocking continued. “I’m coming!” Jon shouted as he yawned. “I’m-”

“Hurry up, bro!” Jon froze.

That was Conner.

“Just give him a minute.” Another voice scolded.

Tim.

“Fuck.” Jon whispered, spinning around. Damian was still curled up in his bed, only half hidden by comforter. Jon quickly ran from the room, slamming his bedroom door shut behind him. He fell into the front door, opening it only enough for his face to show. “…Hey guys.”

Conner grinned. “Mind if we come in? We just had a killer patrol, and we’re starving.”

“Uh…” Jon hesitated. But before he could answer, Tim pushed his door open for him. “…Well, I guess.”

“Conner’s not lying. We’re starving.” Tim mumbled, bee-lining towards the kitchen. “I’ll reimburse you, I promise.”

As he shoved his head into the refrigerator, Conner smiled apologetically, clapping a hand on Jon’s shoulder. “How you been, Jonno? Feel like I haven’t seen you in a while.”

“I’m…good.” As Conner went into the kitchen himself, Jon glanced back to his bedroom door. “Summer vacation and all that.”

“I’d say you’re lucky if you got paid more during the school year.” Conner hummed around a piece of bread Tim handed him. “Doing anything for a second job this summer?”

“Just more patrols as Superman.” Jon shrugged. And more time at the League of Assassins compound in Nanda Parbat he didn’t say. “Some travel, if I feel like it.”

“You meet the new Batman yet?” Tim asked as he poured some orange juice. “Terry. He’s not bad.”

“No. Haven’t had the chance.” Jon mumbled. Hadn’t wanted to was the real answer. Because Damian was Batman to him, he still had that hope. Still believed Damian would return to the title one day, permanently. “So much for World’s Finest, huh?”

“Well, you know Bruce.” Tim shrugged. “He’s kind of hogging him anyway. We only see him at galas.”

“None of you work with him?” Jon asked. He tuned into Damian’s heartbeat for a second, found it still slow, so Damian was still dozing. He could only pray Conner didn’t use his same ability, and hear the same thing.

“Not really. We’re getting old.” Tim laughed. “I’m spending more time at Wayne Enterprises. Dick’s a goddamn mayor. Cass works at Steph’s practice. Jason’s doing…whatever Jason does.”

“But you’re working with Conner.” Jon smirked.

“I called in an old favor. Timmy can’t say no to me.” Conner grinned.

“Please.” Tim snorted into his glass. “I was bored.”

The two began to banter, and Jon found himself glancing back to his room.

God, what he wouldn’t give to be able to tell his brother, and someone like his brother, that Damian was there. That they were married.

That Damian was fucking alive.

And he wanted to bring it up. Wanted to bring Damian up. Ask if Tim remembered his brother, if they’d been looking for him still, if he cared at all. Or at least more than Bruce.

But he couldn’t risk that.

So he smiled and nodded and partook in the conversation, and didn’t mention a thing. Entertained the two for a half an hour or so before, luckily, they excused themselves first before he had to start leaving hints for them to leave.

As soon as he closed the door behind them, he dashed back to his bedroom, only to find Damian still sleeping, only now taking up more of the mattress, arms spread side to side.

Jon blinked then laughed out loud as he walked forward and collapsed back into bed. Damian groaned as Jon twisted their legs together, and he began peppering kisses along Damian’s shoulder.

“…Has my brother left yet?” Damian whispered after a moment. Jon pressed his head against Damian’s.

“Mhm.”

“…Did you tell him anything?”

“If I did, do you think you’d still be in here peacefully sleeping?” Jon smirked. “Tim probably would have come in here just to kill you.”

Damian hummed.

“But alas.” Jon sighed dramatically, curling his arms around Damian’s one. “You’re still my dirty little secret, Mr. Demon’s Head.”

Damian never opened his eyes, but he smiled anyway.

~~

“I think…I should feel insulted.”

Damian’s lips twitched up. “Most people would feel honored, I believe.”

“No, I mean.” Jon rolled towards the edge of the bed, glancing towards the drawing desk his husband sat behind. “You sent me a text that said ‘ASAP.’”

“I did.” Damian murmured, eyes following the tip of his pencil as he moved it across the paper.

“And here I came running because I thought you were in danger. That the mutiny you’re so concerned about finally happened.” Jon continued. He glanced at the candle nearest him, gently hovered his finger through the flame.

“That’s very kind of you, Beloved.” Damian glanced up, frowned. “Please don’t burn your finger.”

“But there was no emergency. You weren’t dying.” Jon sighed, flopping his hand down. He looked up through his lashes. “You just wanted to draw me.”

Damian smiled. “Like I said, most people would probably be honored.”

“I feel like I should be mad.” Jon muttered.

“In my defense, I did say as soon as possible, not right this instant.” Damian mused. “That was your interpretation.”

“Well, how am I supposed to stay mad at you, sitting over there looking like a…a goddamn angel in a wave of holy light?” Jon scoffed. “And you sit there worried about me burning myself? You bump one candle and your desk and drawings are all up in flames in an instant.”

“I doubt you’d let that happen.” Damian chuckled. “Now, despite your wiggling, I’m almost finished.”

“And what’s my payment?” Jon asked, stretching his leg in the air, curving his spine. He felt Damian’s heartbeat stutter a little. “For being your beautiful model?”

“Well, I hope some ice cream your so-called Grannies made when I informed them you were en route is satisfactory.” Damian suggested. “And…I can only hope my undivided attention is a suitable accompaniment.”

“I do love my Grannies and their cooking.” Jon agreed. He turned to his side and propped himself up on his elbow, gave Damian his most seductive grin. “And I definitely do love you a whole lot more.”

Jon watched the heat rise to Damian’s cheeks. The pencil suddenly began moving across the paper faster.

“I’m almost done.” Damian promised.

~~

When he saw it was Bruce Wayne calling, his stomach dropped.

“Jon.” He’d murmured softly. “I…I found Damian.”

Jon blinked.

“What?” And it wasn’t a faked question. He felt his heart speed up. Because if Bruce, if Batman, found Damian and the League then-

“He’s…alive.” Bruce whispered gratefully. “He’s…leading the League of Assassins, and I’m working on that. But…but I just thought you’d want to know. He’s alive. He’s…okay.”

“I…I didn’t know.” Jon lied. “Thank you. Thank you for telling me, Bruce.”

“You were…you are so important to him.” Bruce sighed. “You deserve to know.”

“Can I…Can I see him?” Jon continued. “Can you tell me where he is?”

“I…don’t think that is a good idea. For now.” Bruce sighed. “But. One day, Jon. I promise.”

When they hung up, Jon immediately took to the skies for the Himalayas.

He found Damian on their wedding cliff. He was staring out into the emptiness again. Back straight, hands clasped at the small of his back.

Goliath stood nearby.

“Damian?”

Damian’s head lifted and he turned. Jon instantly took in the new cuts and bruises.

“Jon?” Damian immediately moved towards him. “What are you-”

“Your dad called.” Jon reached out when Damian got close enough. He ran his thumbs over a blossoming bruise on his cheek. “Told me…the basics.”

Damian smiled sadly.

“We…reconciled, I suppose.” Damian whispered.

“You suppose?” Jon asked gently. “You don’t sound very confident about that.”

“It’s…it’s what we’ve always said. He didn’t come after me. He didn’t care where I’d gone. He replaced me.” Damian breathed. “He…he only came here after McGinnis. When he thought I was going to kill him.”

“Well. You clearly proved him wrong. You didn’t kill anyone.” Jon paused, glanced back at Goliath. “Where’s Koru? He never lets you out of his sight.”

“He is…recuperating.” Damian sighed, trying to turn out of Jon’s hands. Jon didn’t let him. “He attacked my father for a grudge I was unaware of. I had to take him down. He then attempted to set off missiles that I’d decided against. He needs…time to think about some things.” Damian closed his eyes. “…I have no control.”

“You do.” Jon said. “You’re doing…amazing things here, Damian. I know it. Your dad knows it.”

He paused, to run his hand over Damian’s hair.

“I could tell when he called.” Jon offered. “He missed you.”

“He didn’t look for me.” Damian reminded.

“But he’s protecting you now.” Jon said. “He called to tell me you were alive. I played dumb, I asked if he would tell me where you were and he refused.”

“That’s not protection, that’s shame.” Damian countered.

“Damian, change takes time. You know that. I know that. Bruce knows that.” Jon squeezed his cheeks a little. “I don’t think he would have called me to tell me you were alive if he was ashamed.”

Damian shook his head. “I don’t know if I can change the League faster than the coming mutiny.”

“I know you’ll do everything you can.” Jon kissed his forehead. “And I’ll be right behind you. I won’t let them do anything to you. I swear.”

“…Thank you, Beloved.” Damian whispered.

“Mhm.” Jon murmured into his hair. “Now, come on. I’m making an executive decision. You need a break.”

Damian merely wrapped his arms around Jon’s neck as Jon lifted them into air and turned towards Metropolis. Goliath followed.

~~

He should have been more alarmed when he heard the lock jiggle. Should have at least had his super strength ready.

But he’d had the flu all week. Him, having the flu. What the fuck.

“Just go ahead and kill me.” He whined as loud as he could. “Give the stuff in my fridge to my neighbor. I don’t want it to go bad.”

He heard the lock click and the door open, but didn’t even look.

“I might have some pizza you can heat up if you want.” He mumbled, closing his eyes. “If I even tried to eat it, it’s coming right back up.”

He didn’t hear anyone.

“If I puke on you, will you go away?” Jon drawled. “Oh wait, can you give me another blanket first? I’d like to at least be warm when you kill me.”

Suddenly there was a scoff, and blanket fluttering over him.

“Beloved, since when did you become so dramatic?” Jon looked up and felt tears well up in his eyes.

“Damian.” He cried. He reached a shaky hand up and Damian took it in his, kissing his knuckles.

“Hello Jonathan.” Damian smiled. “Still feeling bad?”

“Worse than when I called you.” Jon admitted. “You didn’t have to come all this way just because I’m puking.”

“Through sickness and in health.” Damian reminded. “It’s the same in all languages and religions.”

“Stop.” Jon called as Damian backed away. “Stop being so cute.”

Damian snorted. “You need fluids.”

“They won’t stay down.” Jon sighed. “…Wait, did I give you a key to my apartment?”

“No.” Damian hummed. “I could have just come in through the window, but I figured that might concern you. So I…called Grayson.”

“He has a key to my place?” Jon called. “Since when?”

“It’s Grayson.” Damian reappeared behind the couch, handing Jon a glass. “Probably since forever.”

“I hate your family.” Jon decided. “I barely even see them and I hate them.”

“I know.” Damian offered sympathetically. As Jon took the glass, Damian walked around the couch, and Jon found himself staring.

“What?” Damian asked when he noticed. “What’s wrong?”

“You’re in your evil leader garb.” Jon mumbled, gesturing to Damian’s green robes. “You didn’t change?”

“I came as soon as my meeting was over.” Damian shrugged. “So…I suppose I didn’t think about it.”

“…The Demon’s Head is making house calls.” Jon smiled weakly. “The new Ra’s al Ghul is going to make me soup.”

“Eventually, if you can keep that drink down.” Damian smiled, smoothing Jon’s blankets.

Jon felt his exhausted tears fall as he took a sip.

~~

It was like out of a movie.

He arrived in the middle of the afternoon, and gave a fake name to the hotel concierge. The man typed in the name, stared at the screen, then smiled, and handed Jon a key.

He took the elevator, inserted the key for the private floor, and stood in the corner. Smiled to the couples and families who stepped on and off on various floors. Tapped his finger against the lining of his pocket.

And when the lift opened into the penthouse apartment, Jon almost fainted. Almost swooned right then and there.

Damian sat in the breakfast nook, practically glowing in the early evening sun that shone through the window. He wore nothing but a silken robe, open at the chest, a book open on his crossed knee and a cup of tea in his hand.

“Damian.” Jon whispered carefully. Damian looked up and smiled. Sweetly, welcoming. “You’re going to need to put that tea down.”

He barely gave Damian the second he needed to that before he crossed the room and swept him up in his arms, all but throwing him onto the nearby bed.

Damian grunted as he bounced, but gave a laugh as Jon crawled up his body. “And here I thought you’d want to eat first after your flight.”

Jon just grinned and kissed him as hard as he could.

And that’s where they’d been now, for hours. The sun had set, but Jon had never gotten off of Damian. Not that Damian had let go of Jon himself.

“One more.” Jon whispered into Damian’s neck, remarking a hickey on Damian’s next that was already dulling. “One more round.”

“Oh?” Damian hummed sleepily, fingers locked on and tugging at Jon’s hair, the other arm was tight around Jon’s waist, just above where his ankles hooked together. Jon glanced up at Damian’s amused eyes. “I didn’t realize the last round ended.”

Jon bit at his throat, and thrust his hips at the barb. Damian groaned, his leg twitching involuntarily in pleasure, digging into Jon’s spine. He released Jon’s hair and ran his hand down to his chin, tipping Jon’s face up until he could kiss him properly. Jon smiled as Damian tried to devour him, tried to act like he was the one in control.

Well, that just wouldn’t do.

Jon shifted his weight upwards, changing the rhythm of his movements, drinking in every sound Damian tried to hide. He carefully took the hand Damian had under his chin and intertwined their fingers, pushing the hand into the mattress. Damian tried to push back, but Jon decided he wanted to cheat, just a little, and used his super strength to keep his hand down.

Damian noticed. Growled quietly, “You asshole.”

Jon looked down at him with half-lidded eyes. “You like it.”

Damian bit his lip, lowered his eyes. Jon felt him dig his nails into his hip. That was as much of a yes as he was going to get.

And that was fine. That was good. Because Jon wasn’t lying, he wanted this to be the last round. He was getting a little bit tired, and he could tell Damian was too.

Besides, sex was cool. Sex with his husband was great. But it wasn’t even his favorite part.

The afterglow. The cuddling. The staring into Damian’s eyes and seeing the universe. The warmth of his skin as he held him in his arms. The gentle sounds of them saying just how much the other means to him.

And they’d been at it for hours. They were slow, they were fast, they were desperate, they were sensual.

So he’d hoped he’d be forgiven for rushing now, ready for it to end. He bucked quickly, bordering on faster than the speed of sound, needed to stay in his head enough not to do that, not hurt Damian beyond pleasure, but he kissed slowly. Carefully.

Adoringly.

When Damian tugged his hand away, Jon let him. Felt his heart pound as Damian wrapped his arms around Jon’s neck, held him as close as their skin would allow.

They came together.

Jon collapsed onto Damian’s chest, shifting only enough to pull out. Damian kept his arms tight around Jon’s shoulders, his hand returning to stroke at Jon’s hair.

“There is a warm bath ready for whenever you’d like it.” Damian whispered. “And room service. We just have to call the front desk.”

“Hm.” Jon smiled. He found himself pressing more kisses to Damian’s throat. “I’m good right here with you.”

Damian laughed. “Jonathan, we’re disgusting.”

“I’m okay with that.” Jon hummed into Damian’s skin.

Damian snorted and rolled them to the side. He held the side of Jon’s face, staring into his soul.

“Happy anniversary, Beloved.”

~~

It was silly, and he was ashamed of himself.

Like, jeez, he was almost thirty, and here he was in the middle of the night, drowning in insomnia because he missed his husband.

Well…there were other things. But it was mostly that.

He rolled to his side, grasping for his cell phone even as guilt coiled in his gut.

The line rang only once. “Hello, Jonathan.”

“Hi.” Jon muttered. “You busy?”

“No.” Damian sounded amused. “It’s only seven in the morning.”

“Oh. Oh yeah.” Jon sighed. Timezones sucked. “Can you…video chat?”

“Sure.”

“Okay. Hang on.” Jon said a little too quickly than he meant. He pulled the phone away and tapped a few buttons. An instant later, Damian filled the screen.

He was still in his pajamas and dressing gown, but he sat at his drawing desk, the phone propped up on the top corner. When he realized the connection was made, he smiled. “Hello.”

Jon gave him a tight smile. “Howdy, handsome.”

“Is everything okay?” Damian asked immediately. “You sound…sad.”

“I miss you.” Jon mumbled into his pillow. “It’s been months.”

“I know. I’m sorry.” Damian sighed. “I’ve been swamped.”

“It’s not all your fault. I could fly out there any time.” Jon flopped back. “But being Superman…”

“Is far more important.” Damian finished for him. “I understand.”

“Cases haven’t been great lately.” Jon continued. “I haven’t really been saving the day real well.”

“But I know you did your best.” Damian soothed. “…Is there anything I can to make you feel better?”

“Come here?” Jon tried.

Damian laughed. “Anything reasonable?”

Jon glanced around his screen. “Are you drawing right now?”

“Yes.”

“Okay.” Jon smirked. “Draw me a picture.”

“And what would you like a picture of?”

“I don’t know.” Jon sighed. “A puppy.”

“A puppy.” Damian snorted. “Alright.”

He flipped over whatever he was working on and instantly the pencil started flitting around the page.

“I really do miss you, though. More than being bummed about the bad cases.” Jon sighed. “I think I’m just lonely.”

“It happens to the best of us.” Damian agreed. “Would you like me to have Grayson come visit you?”

“Nah, he’s busy.” Jon waved off. “I can call my own friends. Eventually.” He paused, listened to the pencil. “…What do you do when you’re lonely?”

“Call you.” Damian smiled. “And when you don’t or can’t answer, I call Maya while I draw you.”

“You draw me? When I’m not there?”

“Of course. I have an entire folder.” Damian admitted, turning his page. His hair, still unkempt from sleeping, fell into his eyes. “Koru calls me obsessed.”

“You’ve never shown me this folder.” Jon pouted.

“Because I was embarrassed.” Damian admitted. “And sometimes the children take the sketches as coloring pages.” Damian’s eyes widened a little bit, a blush dusting his cheeks. “The…less lewd ones, anyway.”

“Oh my god, if you want me to sext you, just ask.” Jon teased, the tension in his heart releasing a little.

“I prefer the real thing.” Damian chuckled. He made a few more lines across the page, then picked it up, twisting for the camera. “How’s this?”

It was a Dalmatian, with large dark spots and big eyes. Floppy ears and a doggy grin.

“It’s perfect.” Jon smiled. “Send it to me so I can color it?”

Damian snorted. “Sorry, it’s only available for pick-up.”

“Okay. I’ll come get it soon.” Jon yawned. “…Sorry.”

“Don’t be. You need your rest.” Damian hummed.

“…Draw me to sleep?” Jon asked. He felt pathetic, like he was begging.

“Of course.” Damian nodded, reaching for another piece of paper. “Want me to tell you a story as well?”

“Sure.” Jon sighed. “Tell me about your day yesterday.”

“Not that exciting, but if you wish.” Damian nodded.

Jon closed his eyes, and drifted off to the sound of a scratching pencil and Damian’s soft voice.

~~

Jon was in the middle of class, when he got the sense something was wrong. He tripped over the cord of his overhead projector, and his students laughed, but he told them to get an early start on their homework as he scrambled to his desk.

He checked all the news sites, but there didn’t seem to be anything urgent. No mention of his parents or friends. No catastrophe or apocalypse. Everything was fine.

But then he tuned in to Damian’s heartbeat. And everything was not fine.

It was slow and weak. And Jon had heard that sound before.

He’d heard the sound of someone dying before.

He jumped to his feet and out of the classroom, ignoring his students’ calls after him. He ran to the principal, rambled about a personal emergency, then was gone before his boss could ask any questions.

Jon waited until he was off campus before he took to the skies.

But there was a problem, he realized, as he neared Nanda Parbat. He could still hear Damian’s heartbeat, he was still alive, but it…it wasn’t here. The heartbeat was far away. Faint.

He slowed above the League compound, hesitating. He could see men running around, shouting, loading into airships.

He could also see a trail of blood, leading away. He could see where the trail ended, at a mess of claw marks.

Goliath.

There was blood. There were marks from Goliath. Damian was dying.

Where would Goliath take him?

It took him two seconds to realize.

Gotham.

Jon spun around and took off for a second time.

He knew he was on the right path when Damian’s heartbeat got louder. But it didn’t bring any comfort, because it didn’t sound like it was getting any stronger.

As he reached Gotham airspace, he got a glimpse of Goliath, flying behind some black dot, heading towards Wayne Tower. So he didn’t think. Didn’t decide. Let instinct take over and followed them.

He saw the assassins coming in the distance, and he felt his anger grow.

The mutiny must have happened. Damian’s worst fear.

He balled his hand into a fist.

He would not let them hurt him.

He burst into the building, hot on Goliath’s tail. He landed and slid across the tiles, destroying them completely. The black dot, Batman, spun around, stepping in front of Bruce, who had appeared in the room.

“What happened?” Jon bellowed.

“Jon?” Bruce asked. “How did you-”

“What. Happened?” Jon repeated. He glanced at Goliath, Damian limp in his arms. Blood oozed from wounds all across his body. He was unconscious. “…Can you save him?”

Bruce looked over. “…Yes. Goliath, over here. To the recovery tank.”

And Jon never felt so helpless as now, as he watched Terry McGinnis help Goliath lower Damian into water that looked far too much like Lazarus. As little robots swarmed his body.

He stood next to the machine, wishing more than anything that he could stick his hand in the liquid and hold Damian’s.

“…How long?” Bruce suddenly asked. Jon twitched and looked up at him. Batman and the little boy who Jon only just now noticed were tending to Goliath.

“What?”

Bruce pointed to Jon’s hand, to his ring. He pointed to the matching one on Damian’s hand. “How long?”

“…Seven years.” Jon murmured tiredly. “We eloped in Nanda Parbat.”

Bruce closed his eyes. “You never told me.”

“I never told anyone.” He tilted his head in a wince. “…Dick only found out on accident.”

“Dick knew?” Bruce asked. Jon nodded.

“I swore him to secrecy. I’m…kind of surprised he followed through.” Jon admitted. “I…you two were on bad terms. I didn’t want you going in there and potentially starting a war. Potentially hurting each other.”

“We saw each other last year.” Bruce whispered.

“I never stopped him from telling you. That was his choice.” Jon added. “…How did you not notice the ring then? Damian said he never takes it off.”

“He wore gloves the whole time.” Bruce shrugged. “It wasn’t something I was looking for.”

Terry reappeared then, and he and Bruce began to talk about the situation at hand. The city currently being overrun with assassins.

Jon didn’t care.

He had just crossed his arms, was tapping on his forearm, when suddenly, Damian burst from the water in a frenzy. He was screaming and disoriented, and he set his sights on the new Batman.

“Kill.” Damian hissed. Bruce tried to grab for him, but he was too slow in his old age, and missed. But that was fine. That was cool.

Jon was between Damian and Terry in a millisecond.

“I’ll…kill…” Damian breathed, fist still ready. Jon just smiled, and took his face in his hands.

“I’d like to see you try.” Jon mused, leaning down to kiss him. Damian instantly became putty in his hands.

“…You’re with family.” Bruce offered behind them, as Damian’s mind seemed to catch up. His spine straightened, and he reached out to hold Jon’s waist. “You’re safe.”

Jon pulled back, but continued to hold his face as he repeated, “You’re safe.”

“Well. For now.” Terry interjected. “Mind telling us what the hell is going on, so we can maybe save the world?”

Damian sighed, stepping away from Jon. But not too far. Not far enough where Jon couldn’t immediately hook their fingers together. “His name is Zeh-ro. But some call him Mr. Zero…”

~~

It was kind of cool, if Jon thought about it. There was a short ice age. Dick showed up, his daughter too. Damian played well with others. And Zeh-ro was taken down, his plan destroyed.

The Earth saved. Millions upon billions of people were saved.

“The League is yours again.” Jon hummed, watching Matt jump around the roof with Goliath. “…So, I take it you’ll be leaving again soon?”

“…Well, not necessarily.” Damian shrugged. “I mean, Nanda Parbat was turned into a launch pad, and is currently unlivable. The families there have been moved to safer ground, and those remaining loyal to me are all here or protecting the families, so.” He looked at Jon. “You’re stuck with me for the time being.”

“Great.” Jon smiled. He stepped to the side, winding one arm around Damian’s waist. “Better than great, actually.”

“Oh?”

“In fact, the longer you’re here, the more time I’ll have to think up a plan to keep you with me forever.” Jon smirked, bouncing his nose off Damian’s cheek. Damian laughed, and leaned into him. Jon looked across the roof. He could see Dick glancing their way as he spoke with Bruce, a warm grin on the old man’s face himself. “And I don’t think I’m the only one who might be happy with that.”

Damian looked over himself. “…You’re all a bunch of old, sentimental fools.”

“…I’m younger than you.” Jon reminded.

Damian pursed his lips. “Old, sentimental fool.”

Jon laughed out loud, the sound echoing through the city. Goliath responded with a happy roar of his own. Damian smirked as the McGinnis brothers, Graysons and Bruce laughed too.

It was a good day.

“…Welcome home, Damian.” Jon whispered.

Damian sighed, taking hold of the hand Jon had on his hip and leaning into his chest. “Thank you, Beloved.”

[staruplatinum]

Family Fun

Long overdue commission for @bubbleu​ ! Hope you enjoyed it love. !

Warnings: Fluff 

Word count: 3,006 words

Halloween was approaching, your favourite time of the year! Between the trick or treating, chilly weather, fall activities and scary movies, there was one thing you and your family loved most - costume parties! 

It started when you first met Tiziano and Squalo. Both men had great taste in fashion - You could see from that from the get go. Tiziano especially was adorned in all sorts of outfits from various companies. Gucci, Prada, Versace... He had it all. Squalo didn’t dress as fancy, but it was still enough to catch your eye. Years passed, and before you knew it the three of you now had two beautiful children - a boy and a girl - who also happened to take after their father’s extravagant fashion sense. 

It was a chilly fall morning, the leaves had fallen down and Halloween was only a week away.  Tiziano was planning to have a costume party later this evening. Various People from Passione would be in attendance, along with some of your children’s friends as well. Tiziano was famous for hosting parties - he always went all out no matter the occasion. At your children’s birthdays he’d hire a whole circus to perform, not to mention the streamers and decorations were extensive! At christmas He’d get the biggest tree, covered in tinsel and ornaments from head to toe, plus the amount of lights around the house was enough to make it look brighter than the sun. Halloween was no different - in fact, Tiziano enjoyed it most! 

There was lots that could be said about the holiday and what he enjoyed most about it, but by far it was dressing up. Before meeting you - and even long before he had dated Squalo, Tiziano always had the best costumes in all of Passione. One year he went as a dead model and the way he applied the makeup and special effects + blood nearly blew everyone away. 

Both you and Tiziano were working on putting up the orange and black streamers, which were technically the finishing touches, save for some snacks that still had yet to be put out. Once they were up and the balloons were attached, Tiziano got down to admire his work. You had both decided to go for a ‘vintage’ Halloween theme - if the orange and black was any indication. Tiziano placed his hands on his hips, sighing in relief. Besides the food situation - they were pretty much ready. “I think the decorations look good, wouldn’t you agree bella?” He asked, gesturing to his daughter and smiling. She was looking up at the ceiling in awe, clearly impressed by the work her parents had achieved. The streamers looked beautiful, along with the trick-or-treat bags and every other decoration in the house. You could see by the look on her face that this was pure excitement, and it made your heart swell with joy. “Yes daddy!” she chimed back, giving his long leg a tight hug. You got down from the chair as well, helping Squalo and your son tidy up the tape and plastic packaging that was left over. This was probably the only thing that you hated about parties - was the cleanup. Squalo took the garbage into his fist and brought it over to the kitchen, tossing it in the bin. Suddenly, he tensed up when he heard what the rest of his family was talking about… “Did you all figure out what you wanted to be?” You smiled, rubbing your children’s heads. “I want to be spider-man!” your son chimed, jumping excitedly. “I want to be a princess!” Your daughter added. Both started to scream with joy and excitement. 

Shit.

They were really serious about this? Squalo should have known after being married to Tizano for all these years that costumes and parties were no joke to Tiziano. Squalo knew that they loved costumes and he should have been more prepared, but alas… he procrastinated once again. That, and he was far too busy and tired with work as of late. Now what were they going to do? He did not want to be a disappointment to Tizano or you, let alone his children.

Both Tiziano and you laughed at your child’s excitement, before looking over to squalo who had a clear look of surprise and discomfort on his face. Crossing your arms, you asked him.

“And you? What are you dressing up as?”

The smirk on your face was enough to show that you already knew the answer, but you played along, in any case. “Did you get the costumes we had asked you for?”

“Yeah - about that… I didn’t get a chance to um….. Get the costumes.” Squalo admitted.A look of defeat and disappointment crossed his face as he brushed his hair away. Fuck, looking down at his daughters big eyes was enough to make him tear up. He should have been more prepared, he knew that. You groaned in annoyance - once again - Squalo left it to the last minute, and here you guys were, the day of halloween - trying to figure out your costumes. “Well, what are we going to do now?” You asked, hugging your son as he looked up at you - then over to Squalo- , confused. 

Tiziano fixed Squalo with a look of mild disappointment. He was let down, certainly, but you could tell that there was no anger or deep resentment in his gaze. You both expected this of course, Squalo was infamous for procrastinating. “...Sorry,” Squalo said, twirling a lock of his bright orange hair around one of his fingers. He felt disappointed with himself, but he knew that Tiziano wouldn’t be that upset with him. “I’m not mad, honey,” Tiziano said, sitting down on a chair draped with a large sheet of orange fabric. “...Just disappointed.” You could tell that phrase made Squalo hurt as he let out a shaky sigh. A moment passed, and as Squalo stood there looking sheepish, your two children crowded around his legs, looking up at him with a pleading look in his eyes. The insufferable silence was broken only by the creaks of the house. Then suddenly, a loud sound of wood scraping on tile as Tiziano pushed his chair aside and stood up. “No use moping around, sitting around and being gloomy isn’t going to accomplish anything.” Tiziano placed one of his perfectly-manicured hands on his daughter’s shoulder. “You’re going to get to pick out your own costume this year, isn’t that exciting?” “You too,” he says, placing a hand on his son’s head, ruffling up his hair in the process. “You can be Spiderman, Superman, Aquaman… Whoever you want.” 

The children screamed with excitement - they were just happy that their party wasn’t ruined. There was still time to rush to the store, even if halloween was a week away. Surely they’d be able to find a costume at the store, even if it wasn’t something they truly wanted! “Can I be Aquaman?” Squalo says, retrieving the car keys from a basket on the kitchen counter. “Yes honey, you can be Aquaman,” Tiziano says, giving his husband a warm look and a knowing smile. You smile softly as you watch them converse, happy that Tizano was being so supportive and calm about the situation at hand. You knew how much he loved parties, and he hated having anything get out of hand or go wrong. He had a reputation to withhold, afterall.  The children, now bubbling with excitement, follow along behind you as you all get ready to go out. You help your son tie his shoes - he’s always had trouble with that. Tiziano makes sure your daughter’s hair is neat and in order too. He puts it in two curly pig-tails before kissing her forehead. Once everything’s ready, the five of you pile into the family car together - Squalo driving, you sitting in the passenger seat, Tiziano sitting in the back with your two children. The ride wasn’t too long, but Tiziano always liked doing that, sitting in the back with your kids on trips like these. He always likes to act aloof and distant from your children, not getting as involved in their affairs as you or Squalo, but it’s in the little moments like this where you see that he loves them just as much as the two of you do. He wasn’t picking favourites of course, but having a daughter really made him happy, especially because she was into fashion and clothes as much as he was! It takes you a little longer than expected to get to the pop-up halloween store in your town - Squalo takes a wrong turn and gets lost.He wasn’t the greatest navigator, but he was a safer driver than Tizano and you were.  Fortunately, both your kids don’t seem to mind it too much, they were just happy to play games in the back seat with their father as you guided Squalo back on the right path to the Halloween store. 

Once the five of you arrived at the store, you were a little disappointed by the lack of costumes around. The shelves were nearly bare, except for a few of the cheaper, less-popular costumes. It made sense, considering the fact that halloween was next week - but still. You hoped for something more! “Let’s split up with the kids, it should be faster that way,” Squalo said, holding his son’s hand and walking past the registers and into the shelves of costumes.

The family was set on what they wanted and they split up, looking around the aisles for what they wanted. On your own now, you decided to browse around. There wasn’t much to choose from in your size, so you had to improvise. There were some full costumes left, but none of them really spoke to you - a cat, a witch, an angel… It all seemed so cliche. You decided to look in the section devoted to costume parts and smaller costumes on their own, maybe you could find something that better suited you there. Browsing around, you found a few simple costumes, discarded on a middle shelf next to a witch’s broom prop. A bumble-bee, perhaps? It was simple and cute, and the store sold a small kit with wings, antennas and leg warmers. They also had a ladybug set, but  something about them both threw you off. Knowing Tiziano, these would be a little too basic for his liking. You set them back on the shelf, and continue to look around, hoping to find something more to his tastes and yours.

Browsing around some more, you found an eye-patch and a tastefully tattered blouse with a gold-colored plastic necklace. Then it hit you - you could be a pirate! Squalo mentioned how he wanted to be Aquaman, and while this didn’t entirely go with his costume - it was close enough to the theming of his costume. Not to mention you had a long black skirt at home that could be paired up with one of Tiziano’s belt around your waist, for extra detail.  Once you were sure that’s what you wanted, you headed towards the back of the store where you could clearly see your husbands.

Tizano was a tall man with distinctive honey-blonde hair, recognizable even from a distance. Finding him was not a difficult task. He was with your daughter, who managed to find a Cinderella dress. Lucky her! It seemed that the other more popular princess costumes were already sold out, but she had managed to find just this one, tucked out of place behind an adult-sized Snow White costume. Tiziano smiled, making sure that she was absolutely certain she wanted this. Even if it wasn’t her first choice, he’d find a way to make it special. Your daughter seemed content with it though, and Tiziano now had to figure out what he wanted to dress up as. Seeing that his daughter was Cinderella, and you were dressed as a pirate, He wanted to match one of you at least. 

He browsed around, finding a light blue cloak and a fairy wand on one of the shelves next to him. He could be the fairy godmother! He didn’t have everything he needed, but he could improvise with what he had at home. Tiziano was always good at that - improvising. Now that the three of you were settled on your costumes you hurried around the store since it was closing soon. You were almost sure that they had disappeared into the myriad dark shelves of the store when finally you heard small laughter from your son.

There were no more Aquaman costumes that were adult sized. Squalo could only find one in a child’s size, which he ended up giving to your son. He deserved it after all, since Squalo screwed up on the costumes in the first place. You looked around for Squalo, not seeing him near your son, until you got closer and looked where your son was pointing and laughing. Squalo had found his costume - a cartoonish, cheesy-looking shark costume. It was oversized, and baggy - but it would have to do. Besides, it went with the whole ‘aquatic’ theme that the three of you seemed to be going for anyways. Noticing a plastic tiara on one of the shelves, you scooped it up, deciding to add it to your costume. A crown to go with your pirate costume, making you into a sort of pirate princess - something to match with the themes both of your husbands seemed to be going with for their costumes. It looked cheap, but… Then again, what did you expect from halloween costumes? It didn’t go perfectly, but you felt the sentiment behind your choice in costume would mean a lot. “Oh, what are you planning on doing with that?” Squalo said, leaning over your shoulder. You jumped a little, not recognizing him in his ridiculous shark costume. “Oh, it’s a surprise,” you said, giving him a wide grin. You had to keep yourself from laughing at the sheer absurdity of his costume.

“So it’s settled then.” Tiziano smiled, placing a kiss on Squalo’s forehead. “Let’s pay for these and head home, yeah? We have a party starting soon.” 

The children were excited, fidgeting with their costumes in their little hands, chattering to themselves about how cool or cute their costumes were, respectively. You and your two husbands walked past the near-empty isles, towards the registers at the front of the store.

Your daughter looked up at Tiziano, eyes wide. “Papa, can I wear it now?”. Tiziano patted her on the shoulder, giving her a patient smile. “Not now, sweetie. Once we get home. Eventually, you reached the front of the store, and walked to the register - no one else was around, which was to be expected, really. Squalo spent some time fumbling through his pockets, looking for his wallet before Tiziano eventually told him that he’d pay for the costumes this time, and for him to be more careful with his belongings next time. “By the way, you’re all a family, right?” said the clerk behind the register, finishing putting your costumes in bags. “We have a special promotion going on right now - free costume family photos with every purchase.” “Would you like one?” “I’d rather not, we have a party we need to get to-” Tiziano was quickly drowned out by you, Squalo, and your two kids. “Yes!” With a tired smile on his face, Tiziano helped carry your bags of costumes to the back of the store, to the changing rooms, where you all changed into your costumes… With the except of Squalo, who hadn’t taken his costume off. All of you assembled outside of the changing rooms when you were done, in your costumes. Squalo in his baggy shark costume, Tiziano in his improvised fairy godmother costume, your son in his aquaman costume, and your daughter in her Cinderella costume. And finally, you, in your “pirate princess costume”. You all shuffled over to the cheesy pumpkin-patch backdrop next to the changing rooms, and got into the most photogenic poses you could manage. You could tell that Tiziano wasn’t exactly thrilled with the low-budget production, but Squalo and the two kids seemed to be thrilled with the prospect of a free family photo for Squalo’s photo album. The store worker was already there waiting for you all, with a disposable camera and a roll of film. They waved you over to the backdrop, posing you so the dim store lighting caught you all and so that nobody would fade into the background. Finally, all of you were ready. “Everyone ready? On the count of three… One… Two… Three…” “Cheese!” you all said, striking a pose. Yes, everyone, even Tiziano.

There was a brief flash for the camera, and the photograph printed. After making sure the photo wasn’t blurry and no one blinked, the employee set the picture down on one of the nearby shelves, and held the camera up again, to take a second photo. “And a silly one, too!” And again, everyone posed too, even Tiziano, who seemed to have finally warmed up to the prospect of low-budget costume photos. At the end of the day, the fact that he was with his family is what mattered most. After checking over your pictures with the employee and tucking them safely into your purse, you all de-costumed and re-packed your costumes into the bags. Once everything was in order, you said your goodbyes to the store worker, who wished you all a happy Halloween. In the parking lot, Tiziano gently took the keys out of Squalo’s hands, and got into the driver’s seat himself, jingling the keys at his husband. “I’ll drive this time, honey. We’ve got a party we need to get to, and I don’t think we should be taking the scenic route this time.” You all laughed, together. You couldn’t be more grateful, having a wonderful family like this.You all piled into the car, and after making sure everyone was buckled in, began the drive home.

[hood-ex]

Prey to Sentiment

Read on AO3

Batbro Ages:

Dick: 20 Jason: 17 Tim: 13 Damian: 10

The sound of music was the first thing Damian noticed when the passage to the batcave opened. It was an upbeat tune that seemed to pound through the rock and limestone interior of the place. It was so jarringly loud compared to the rest of the manor that he found himself tuning into the lyrics without consciously choosing to. To his confusion, it seemed to be a song about a woman named Rio who enjoyed dancing on the sand.

Damian wanted to plug his ears with cotton to drown out the offending sound, but more than anything, he wanted to know who was blasting music in the cave. Surely his father did not listen to such garbage, nor did he allow it to play while he was working. Within the week Damian had gotten to observe his father, he knew that the man was nearly always silent. Bruce Wayne ate in silence, read in silence, exercised in silence, and patrolled in silence. It only made sense that his workspace would retain his preference for silence as well.

So no, it would be completely out of character for his father to play music in the batcave, which meant that someone else had been down here earlier. Judging by the sudden tenseness in his father’s shoulders, Damian could only guess that the culprit was still lurking around.

The only people Damian could imagine would be down here would be his father’s caped associates. That insufferable alien called Superman or possibly the blabbermouth speedster. Unless… his father was testing him and was planning to have him attacked as some kind of training exercise. Even though it was unlikely, Damian kept his eyes peeled for any sense of danger.

“There are some people I want to introduce you to,” Father said. He began to descend down the staircase, his feet making no sound. Damian followed suit and resisted the temptation to cross his arms over his chest. If there was someone threat worthy down here, he’d rather his hands be free to grab the knife tucked in his pants. He did allow a small scrunch of his nose since there was an unpleasant earthy smell in the cave mixed with a sharp saltiness that Damian couldn’t place.

He scanned beyond his view of his father’s backside and noticed that there was something different about the lowest level of the batcave. Typically, that was the section of the cave where his father kept his jet skis, ski boat, and the submarine. When Damian saw the cave for the first time a week ago, he had briefly looked down and saw that there was just enough seawater inside the cave to keep the vessels afloat. There had also been a large door at the entrance of the lower level that blocked off more ocean water from coming in, though it was obviously more of a device to keep people from entering the cave. The door had been locked tight before, but now it was completely wide open, allowing ocean water to slosh gently against the lower walls of the cave. The saltiness he had detected moments ago made sense now.

“Are you planning on going fishing?” Damian asked. He ended up crossing his arms anyways, hip cocked toward the support of the ridged wall. His father continued heading towards the lower level platform. The platform was only a few feet higher than the top surface of the water, making it easy enough to hop onto the boats. His father made no move to board any of the vessels, rather, he stopped at the edge of the platform and turned to meet Damian’s eyes.

“You’ll have to come down here,” Father said, “They won’t climb up there to meet you.”

Damian pushed off the wall with his shoulder and came down to the lower platform. “Who on earth are you referring to?” His arm nearly brushed his fathers when they finally stood next to each other. “Surely you don’t mean to introduce me to that trident wielding clownfish man.”

For a second it looked like his father was struggling between a glare and a small grin. Damian decided it must be a look of disapproval. People were rarely amused by him.

“No, not Aquaman,” Father said. Oh, of course. That was the clownfish man’s name. “Although somewhat related to him. You’ve met mer people before, haven’t you?”

Damian had, in fact, never met a mer person, let alone multiple of them at the same time. He’d certainly seen them when he was with the League of Assassins. Sometimes he would see them darting through the waves of the ocean, but he mainly saw them when his grandfather brought them in as prisoners.

Regardless, they were beautiful creatures, even though they rarely showed themselves above water. There were laws in place that kept mer people from being hunted like a typical sea animal, but it hadn’t always been that way. Damian supposed that was why the people of the sea were hesitant to make regular appearances outside of their habitat.

“Not officially,” Damian said after a few moments of silence. His eyes narrowed into slits. “I’m about to, aren’t I?” He instantly took a few steps back away from the ledge. His tongue curled, ready to reprimand his father for allowing mer people into the cave. Before he had the chance to do so, his father held up a hand.

“You don’t have to be scared of them. I’ve known each of them for a long time now and they know who I am.”

That only made Damian tense even further to the point where he was practically a replica of a dog with its hackles raised. He couldn’t believe his father had revealed his identity to others. Who were these people that had his father’s trust? Why were they privy to such a private part of his father’s life before Damian himself was? Damian technically knew the reason for the last question, and he couldn’t help but feel a little jealous that his father’s affection for the interlopers was likely stronger than his affection for his own son.

His father’s blue eyes watched him with calculated precision and Damian quickly schooled his features. He’d rather have his father think he was nervous instead of pinpoint his insecurity.

“I know things between us have been rough this past week, but try to be civil with them.” They mean a lot to me went unsaid. Damian rolled his eyes before dragging his feet back to his father’s side. He gave a stiff nod.

His father reached up towards the comm in his ear, which was interesting. That meant the mers had a means of communicating with him in the water and vice versa. While Damian was certainly wary of the situation, he had to admit he was a little curious about his father’s “associates.”

“Tim,” his father said into the comm. There was a small pause where this so-called Tim must have responded. “I have Damian with me. You can come inside now. Tell Jason he can’t have any of Alfred’s shrimp for a week unless he disables the music loop.” Then, muttered through clenched teeth as if pained to admit it, he said, “It’s been driving me crazy all morning.”

“Tt.” Damian had been ignoring the music still pounding through the cave up until that point. There had been another terrible song playing for the past three minutes. It went something like, “I’m having your baby. It’s none of your business.” It hit a little too close to home for Damian’s liking, and by the way his father was openly scowling, he figured he felt the same. However, it didn’t become an issue because the music abruptly came to a stop. The Jason character must have decided the butler’s food was worth far more than an annoyed Batman.

There wasn’t much indication that the mers had entered the cave other than the water itself taking on a more rippled effect. Seconds later, the water started sloshing more harshly against the walls and platform. Damian lifted his foot just in time to miss a wave of water from soaking his shoe. By the time he dodged a few more wayward splashes, hair and skin were beginning to emerge from the murky depths.

Two dark-haired males then rose up until their arms and chests were exposed to the air, water droplets trickling down their skin. The male with the larger and more muscled torso looked to be older than the slimmer, pale male. Both of their eyes were blue and rid of any irritation that a normal human’s eyes would experience when exposed to seawater. Their hands also had webbing between each finger, though the small white tissue scars covering them suggested that the webbing was not entirely durable. While interesting, Damian was more excited to see the mer’s tails, but so far neither of them had moved far enough out of the water to show a glimpse of them.

His attention was drawn towards the teardrop-shaped obsidian stones that were fastened to each of the mer’s throats by short silver chains. He wondered if they were gifts from his father since the necklaces did not look like the kind of colorful jewelry mers were known to wear.

During the time Damian had taken to carefully observe the two strangers in the water, he realized they were doing the same to him. The more intimidating mer drifted closer until he was leaning his arms against the side of the platform, making Damian take a few steps back. His eyes seemed to be drawn to the knife that Damian had concealed in his pants. How the mer had detected it, Damian had no idea, but it instantly made him feel more guarded.

His father placed a hand on his shoulder, and normally Damian would have shrugged it off, but somehow it made it easier to look at the mers without showing his unease over the situation.

His father looked at the larger male. “Damian, this is Jason Todd.” This was said with a pointed glare at the mer, and the mer instantly sported a wolfish grin that displayed his sharp teeth.

Father then motioned to the smaller male. “This is Tim Drake.” Tim gave a hesitant wave, his webbed hand stretching out to full capacity. Father sighed. “Where’s Dick?”

Damian raised a brow, unsure of what that was supposed to mean.

“He got sidetracked,” Drake said, swimming up beside Todd. “A kid from a passing pod snagged his tail between two rocks and broke a few scales. Dick said he was going to show the pod where the mer-medic was. He should be here any second.”

From what Damian remembered, a pod was the mer people’s equivalent to a family unit. They mostly traveled while children in the pod were young before becoming more stationary in one area. From what he could make of their ages, Damian assumed Todd and Drake’s pods must be close by. If that was the case then did their pods also know the identity of Batman? Did they also come into the cave and chat with his father? Once again, Damian couldn’t help but feel like a complete outsider in the situation.

His father started talking to the comm in his ear, apparently demanding to know where the absent mer was located. Damian ignored him in favor of focusing on the mers present. Arms crossed, he stepped forward to the point of nearly stepping on Todd’s fingers.

“My name is Damian Wayne,” he said, chin tipping upwards. “I demand to know your relationship with my father.”

Todd and Drake shared a look with each other.

“You demand to know?” Todd asked, Gotham accent taking Damian by surprise. He gripped the side of the platform harder and pulled his torso further out of the water, intentionally leaning into Damian’s space. “How about I demand you rephrase your question?” Todd didn’t even blink as a water droplet from his hair trickled into his eye.

“There was nothing wrong with the phrasing of my question, bottom dweller,” Damian said, using a term he had heard his grandfather use when referring to mer people.

Jason’s tail, a mixture of black and red, appeared for a split second before coming back down to the water with a loud smack. Water sprayed in multiple directions and a large portion of it drenched Damian’s jeans and shoes. Outraged, Damian stepped on the heel of his right shoe to loosen it. Then, with well practiced aim, he flung the shoe straight into Todd’s smug looking face. Todd’s head snapped back on impact. His arms gave out beneath him, making him sink back into the water. Drake dodged to the side to avoid Todd’s flailing.

Damian heard Drake and his father shout at the same time.

“What the hell!”

“Damian!”

Suddenly, a wet hand shot out of the water and snagged one of Damian’s ankles in a bone crushing grip. He was yanked so hard that he lost his balance and fell on his backside with a startled gasp.

“Unhand me!” he yelled while trying to scramble for purchase on the wet floor. It was no use. He felt another tight squeeze around his ankle, and before he knew it, he was dragged into the disgusting water.

Saltwater immediately stung his eyes. He squeezed them shut and blindly reached towards his ankle to try and dig his nails into Todd’s hands, but the water slowed his momentum. Even kicking became difficult against the water’s resistance. He could feel his body being dragged back and forth through the water, his hair ghosting over his face every other second. Lungs burning, Damian tried to use his hands to propel his torso to the surface of the water, only to have Todd give a harsh tug downwards, keeping him from reclaiming oxygen.

A second passed where Damian genuinely thought his father was going to let this psychotic mer drown him. A heavy feeling of betrayal fell over him and he tried even harder to kick Todd in the face. Clearly, no one was going to save him. He had to save himself. That’s the way it had to be. Just like it always had been with the League of Assassins.

Just as he was about to try reaching for his knife, a high pitched sound vibrated through the water. It sent shivers down Damian’s spine, and for a moment, he thought there was a whale with them in the water. A sound like that was far too similar to the whale songs Damian had seen videos of. But then the biting grip of Jason’s hands disappeared from his ankles. A different set of webbed hands grabbed his wrist, propelling him towards the surface.

Damian reflexively sucked in a large breath as soon as his face was out of the water. He felt dizzy from the lack of oxygen. He tried to open his eyes and immediately shut them again after feeling the sharp sting of salt in them.

Whoever pulled him out of the water had enough sense to keep an arm around his waist. Damian half-heartedly dog paddled back towards the edge of the platform with the arm’s support. Another set of hands, his father’s hands, grabbed him under the armpits and scooped him out onto the platform.

Damian gasped wetly and dragged himself as far from the water as he could with the dead weight of his wet clothes holding him back. He noticed his father’s presence disappear from his side, only to be swapped with another person, supposedly the person who saved him. Vaguely, Damian could hear his father yelling in the distance. It was hard to make out the words with the sound of his heart pounding in his ears.

The webbed hand returned to his back and gave it a few hard taps to help dispel any water Damian accidentally swallowed. “Go get him a towel and some tap water. He needs to flush out his eyes.” The voice was unfamiliar. There was no doubt that this had to be the other mer, Dick.

“Are you sure he doesn’t need some milk?” Drake asked from somewhere above them. And what? How was Drake possibly above them? He wouldn’t be able to breathe nor would he be able to walk with his tail. He tried to pry his eyes open to look, only to close them with a hiss after feeling how sensitive they were. Dick used his hand to slick Damian’s hair away from his face so more saltwater wouldn’t drip down into it.

“Oh krill,” Dick said, sounding exasperated and amused at the same time. “How long have you been waiting to use that reference?”

A bark of laughter echoed in the cave. “Way too long.”

“Should’ve waited longer!” Todd shouted during a pause in his and father’s argument.

“Jason,” Dick warned in barely concealed anger. “Shut it.”

Todd’s loud scoff startled the bats. Damian heard them scatter up above, their flapping wings getting farther away.

“Sure, okay. He insults me and hits me in the face with his steel-toed shoe, and I’m somehow in the wrong for showing him that actions have consequences?”

“Don’t even try to make it seem like that was a teachable moment. He’s just a kid—”

“Don’t treat me as if I’m some imbecile that needs to be handled with kid gloves,” Damian spat, rolling away from Dick’s gentle hand and sitting up on his own. “I’m capable of taking care of myself! I was just about to gut Todd with my knife when you stepped in unnecessarily.” Damian motioned in the direction of Todd’s voice. “I’d kill him right now if I was able to see properly.”

Damian felt his father’s hand close around his bicep. His first instinct was to knock the hand away, angry that people kept grabbing and touching him. First, it had been Todd’s biting grip on his ankle. Then, Dick’s supportive arm around his waist. Now, his father’s tense fingers on his arm.

He scowled. Their touch made him feel weak and vulnerable, and he was neither of those two things. No, Damian Wayne was no one’s victim. No one’s damsel in distress. He was too good for that. The blood running through his veins was proof of that.

“That had better be a joke,” Father said lowly. “I told you when you came here that we don’t kill. Ever.” The cold tone of his voice made Damian want to shrink and curl back up on the floor. Instead, stubborn as ever, he crossed his arms and turned his head in the other direction.

“I have the right to defend myself if he attacks me! If defending myself leads to his death then that hotheaded flounder was asking for it!”

Todd made a high pitched shrieking sound similar to the one Damian had heard in the water. Damian jumped slightly when Dick, who was still sitting right beside him, answered back with a mixture of shrieks and clicks of his own. It sent goosebumps down Damian’s arms. The shrieks didn’t sound as soft or musical out of the water as they had in the water. They were quick, biting, and fueled by anger.

“Ooh, you made mom mad,” Drake snickered, his voice sounding much closer than it was before.

Dick and Todd both clicked in the back of their throats simultaneously, which Damian could only assume was some variation of, “Shut up!”

Damian wondered if his father understood the mer’s heated conversation or if his silence was an indication that he was just as lost as Damian was. As far as Damian knew, translating the mer language did not come easy. Replicating it was even harder, if not impossible due to the different frequencies that could not be heard or replicated by the human body.

“That’s enough!” Father said after what felt like an eternity of nonstop vocalizations, causing the two mers to trail off into silence. Damian could have sworn he heard one of them hiss at one point. “You two need to cool off. Jason, get upstairs. Go help Alfred with dinner.” He paused for a second and then, most likely addressing Dick, said, “You’re drying up like a prune. Go soak for a few minutes.”

There was some mumbling and what sounded like feet pounding up the platform that connected to the top level of the cave. Damian internally cursed at the salt that was still keeping him from opening his eyes. He was desperate to make sense of how it was possible for the mers to be walking around the cave. All of them except Dick, apparently.

“You and Tim got the kid?” Dick asked.

Damian immediately scowled and clenched his fists. That was the second time he’d been called “kid.” Kids were not equals, and worse, they were not capable of much. Damian was the opposite. He would show both his father and these mers that no one was more capable than him. Then they would realize their mistake in referring to him in such a demeaning way.

“I got the water and towel right here,” Drake chimed in somewhere to Damian’s immediate left.

Dick squeaked twice, short and low.

“Huh?” Tim said. “Quit speaking in dialect.”

“Ugh. Forget it.”

Dick’s scales were rough and heavy sounding as they dragged across the floor. Damian wondered if it hurt or if the scales were tough enough to take some damage. His curiosity died as soon as he heard a large splash from behind him. He turned his attention to the remaining mer instead.

“What are you waiting for, Drake? Hand over the water immediately!”

Damian could only imagine the look of bewilderment on the mer’s face as Drake muttered, “Drake? You’ve gotta be kidding me.”

[bisexualsforprompto]

Miraculous Reborn (Maribat Injury AU) Pt. 2

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One      Next

Damian was surprised to say the least when his father informed him that he was brought back to life with the help of Darkseid on Apokolips. It hadn’t bothered him too much though, he kept his same cocky attitude and straight faced demeanor. 

What did bother him, more than he cared to admit was his soul bond. He knew he had one, he wasn’t as careless as his soulmate who got scrapes and bruises all the time, of course they transferred to him, but luckily she had never broken bones so the League never suspected a thing. Damian hadn’t dared to tell his mother or anyone else in the League of Assassins about his soulmate, soulmates were a mere distraction. When he started living with Bruce he didn’t say anything either, he wasn’t quite sure how to bring it up. Before he died though, he knew his soulmate would experience the same pain as him. He felt guilty, not that he would ever tell anyone, but he still assumed that when he was brought back to life his soulmate was too. 

It had been years and he quickly dispelled that theory, he never got injuries that he hadn’t earned himself. He was a little sad that the soul he was connected to was still dead, he felt somewhat responsible. Damian didn’t know why he felt these things for someone he hadn’t even met and would never meet but he couldn’t help it.

Damian wasn’t the kind to let things bother him but his dreams were infested with screams. He relieved being murdered over and over again, but from the perspective of his soulmate. It was different each time, sometimes his soulmate would be at home, at a restaurant, even in a grocery store but the outcome was always the same, his soulmate would lie there choking on blood and the last words they spoke were always, ‘All your fault.’

He continued not to tell his family about his soulmate, it was his burden and after all his soulmate could only be dead. There was no point, six years had passed and Damian had to accept the truth, his soulmate was gone and wasn’t coming back.

Damian had attended West-Reeves private school for three years, part of an agreement with his father. Jon also attended, but was three grades below him. The poor kid wasn’t even in the 9th grade yet, but that didn’t stop them from being their hero duo.

As Damian pulled up to the school (on his motorcycle, he was no longer the spoiled rich kid who felt so entitled to take a helicopter to school) he let out an internal chuckle. Jon was waiting for him, like he had been for the past three years, ‘some things never change…’

Jon ran over, pushing his dorky glasses up on his face, “Did you hear Damian?!” Damian rolled his eyes, “TT. What Kent?”

Jon was beaming while he informed his friend, “We’re getting a new student!” Damian sighed, “How exactly do you know that? And why do I care?” Jon pulled out his phone and wore a hyper focused look on his face as he tapped the screen. He promptly shoved it in Damian’s face.

“So Erica’s best friend Monica told her cousin Clarissa that her aunt, Principal Dunin, said that we’re getting a new girl from France! And you should care because she’s in your grade!” Jon grinned, unable to contain his excitement. Damian pushed the phone back into his half-kryptonian partner’s face, “I still don’t see why I should care. Seems unimportant to me, TT. Unless…” Damian tapped his chin, “Does she happen to be the daughter of some supervillain?” Jon rolled his eyes and shook his head, “Not everything’s about superheroing!”

“TT.”

“This girl could be super cute! Wouldn’t you want to know her?! I bet she’ll be your girlfriendddd!” Jon teased, wiggling his eyebrows. Damian gutted and flicked the boy in between his eyebrows.

“Hey!”

“I’m not so juvenile as you to think having a girlfriend is an insult, either way I don’t have time for a girlfriend, you know as well as I do that we have a job to do.” Damian huffed as he stepped off his motorcycle. Taking off his helmet and placing it in his school bag, Damian saw Jon starting to get ready to fire back a response. The young Wayne sighed and folded his arms.

“Damian! Come on, being a hero is fun but there’s other cool stuff out there too! And who knows maybe that girl will be your first ever crush! Ahhh I can see it now!” Jon squealed, anime stars practically glowing in his eyes. Damian rolled his eyes, “TT. Unlikely.”

Jon heard the first bell ring and pulled Damian by the arm, super hearing did. have it’s perks. “Come on! We better get to class. I can’t wait to hear about your new girlfriend!”

“I haven’t even met this girl. TT. You’re immaturity floors me Kent, it really does.” Damian retorted as Jon dragged him across the courtyard. Jon rolled his eyes as he pushed open the double doors to West-Reeves. They were greeted with the normal soft chatter that filled the halls. Most people were buzzing about the new girl. Damian resisted the urge to gag, he had to admit their private school was small but not so small that this girl should be the only thing people were talking about. 

“I heard she was homeschooled.” Damian heard as he passed by a young blonde girl, maybe younger than Jon.

“Monica said she’s from Paris can you believe-“ Exclaimed a brunette Freshman. 

“I heard French girls are hotter than Americans!” Said a muscular senior on the football team as he and two of his other toxically masculine friends fist pumped. Damian brushed the rumors off, he couldn’t care less, he dealt with rumors all the time, being a Wayne and all. He assumed the new girl would be overwhelmed by the attention, but honestly he didn’t care. 

Jon and Damian went their separate ways as Damian walked up the steps to his homeroom. The midnight haired boy scowled at those who passed him in the hall and smiled, his demeanor hadn’t improved much since he was a child.

He was still the Ice Prince. The class addressed him as such as well as the media. Damian truly didn’t care, he wasn’t eager to please like some people. Let the people think what they want, Damian didn’t care.

Besides if they had been trained by assassins, died after becoming a vigilante at the hands of their clone, and caused their soulmate’s death he was sure everything would roll off their backs too. Ever since the League he was taught not to be sensitive. He had grown a lot from the murderous heir of the League of Assassins and some of his walls had been broken down, but most would forever remain up and guarded because of the soulmate whom he would never meet that he never told anybody of.

Don’t get Damian wrong, it wasn’t that he didn’t want to. Well, he didn’t, but it went deeper than that. The great Damian Wayne wasn’t afraid of anything, but if he was he might’ve been the tiniest bit afraid of talking about his soulmate. The prospect of them gave him nightmares, there was no way he would let them infest his day thoughts too. There was a point in which he contemplated telling Jon. 

He ultimately decided against it. The boy would ask far too many questions for Damian’s liking and he was almost positive he’d tell Superman. Clark Kent would surely inform his father and then he’d have to deal with that. 

Damian walked silently in the hall as he tugged on his backpack, realizing a part wasn’t fully zipped. He kept his eyes straight ahead and surveyed his surroundings in his line of sight and peripheral vision, a habit from patrol and his days in the League. Placing his hand on the doorknob Damian opened the door to his homeroom realizing he was the first one there. This was not surprising in the least, most of his peers socialized with their friends and waited until the very last second to walk in. Damian took his seat in the back of the class and pulled out his assigned reading material. Well, technically it wasn’t due until three months later, but Damian was always ahead so he could be prepared for anything. He cracked open his book and started to read. He noticed the students trickling in, one by one, taking their seats. He sat alone in the back of the class, so he didn’t have to worry about his literature being interrupted. He continued to read as chatter filled the junior’s homeroom. Just as he flipped the page of the new paperback he heard the door creak open and a cheery voice call, 

“This is your homeroom! And don’t forget, you can always talk to me if you need anything!” He listened as a meek voice responded, “Thank you, I appreciate it.” The 16 year olds in the class had their eyes glued on the door as they knew it was the new girl who was speculated to be arriving. 

He heard the class light up with a buzzing excitement as the new girl turned the handle. The students craned their necks like they were in some over dramatic play to see her. 

Damian rolled his eyes and kept his eyes on the book, he knew if the homeroom was any suggestion that this would be how the new girl was treated at every class. He buried his head into the book,

‘This day is going to be horrific.’

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[aion-rsa]

Jupiter’s Legacy: Choreographing Superheroic Stunts

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Stunt teams are some of the hardest working people in the industry. They literally put their lives on the line just to entertain us and yet there’s so little acknowledgement of their contributions. There is no Oscar for stunt work, but there should be. Netflix’s adaptation of Jupiter’s Legacy has secured one of the industry’s hottest stunt choreographers, one who is no stranger to superhero action, Philip J. Silvera. 

If you’ve read Jupiter’s Legacy already, you know Frank Quitely’s artwork leaps off the page, splattered with intense moments of sanguineous bloodshed. Quitely’s graphic style is a perfect fit for Silvera, who says he’s always been inspired by the visceral violence of films like Goodfellas and The Godfather Part II.

“My action in the past has always had a bit of a lead pipe brutality to it,” confesses Silvera with a grin. Who better to choreograph the huge superhero brawls of Jupiter’s Legacy? 

School of Hard Knocks 

Stunt work has always been Silvera’s destiny. “I always wanted to do stunts, since I was a kid.” Silvera’s father was a boxer who was just about to go pro, but his fortune took a bad turn after he broke his arm and leg. Nevertheless, Philip inherited his father’s fighting spirit. After starting his martial arts training in Karate, Silvera switched over to a Shaolin-based system of Chinese Kung Fu, which he studied for about 20 years. 

Silvera got his first break in 1997. He was competing in a martial arts tournament in New York City when he was approached to do an off-Broadway show called Voice of the Dragon: Once Upon a Time in Chinese America. It was a groundbreaking show from maverick playwright and noted jazz composer Fred Ho. Silvera describes it as “a bit of an urban Peking opera, really a martial arts ballet.” The show demanded he play a character, do martial arts, fight, fall, and flip on stage in front of a live audience. 

As Silvera got deeper into the stunt world, his training diversified to accommodate a wider variety of roles. He studied Kali stick fighting and even trained with Cecep Arif Rahman (The Raid 2, John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum). Beyond his film work, Rahman is a genuine master of the Indonesian martial art called Pencak Silat. As a stunt coordinator, Silvera must keep pushing his training forward so he can meet the demands of his next project. “I just constantly want to keep learning different things and evolving.”

Silvera began officially working as a stuntman in movies and TV in 2005. You must work your way up to that director’s chair, and in the stunt industry, that means you’ve got to pay your dues and take a lot of hard knocks. By 2010, he got his first action and fight choreographer credit with Star Wars: The Force Unleashed II. That was followed by several coordinator roles on more video games like DC Universe Online, Batman: Arkham City, and Star Wars: The Old Republic. After an uncredited role assisting with the fight choreography in Iron Man 3, he received his first credited movie fight choreographer role for Thor: The Dark World.

Changing the Game

However, it was his work on Netflix’s Daredevil that caught the attention of both action and superhero fans. Silvera served as the Fight and Stunt Coordinator for the first two seasons of the series, and for action connoisseurs, he built a choreographic trademark for the show: the one-take fight scene. In Daredevil’s second episode, Silvera orchestrated a showstopping one-take hallway slugfest and every fan of fight choreography took notice. That scene propelled action in streaming TV to the cinematic level of big screen fight choreography. “I think most people would be surprised to hear that we designed that one-shot sequence in Daredevil in a day and a half,” Silvera says. 

Silvera followed up that hallway fight with a one-take stairwell scrap in season two (an episode directed by Marc Jobst, who also directed two episodes of Jupiter’s Legacy). Hallway and stairwell fights comprise two of the three most common settings for extended fight scenes (the third being warehouse fights – there’s an innumerable amount of these in actioners because it’s just easy and cheap to find warehouse locations). Hallways serve as a device to narrow the playing field when one person must take on several opponents. The width of the hallway restricts how many adversaries can come at the hero at a time. Silvera’s Daredevil hallway fight is held in the same esteem as the epic hallway fight in Chan-wook Park’s Oldboy and is considered by many to be the greatest TV fight scene to date. 

Stairway fights showcase technical expertise. The footwork must be precise because one misstep can result in a devastating ankle twist for any stunt person. Additionally, falling down stairwells isn’t easy. It requires top notch stunt people to stage safely. 

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Jupiter’s Legacy Ending Explained

By Bernard Boo

For Silvera to deliver such high-level fight choreography for the small screen was groundbreaking. Until the rise of streaming, most TV shows were more reserved with their action because it is a longer haul. A feature-length movie might contain half a dozen fight scenes, at best. An action TV series might stage that many fights in just two or three episodes, with plenty more over the course of the season. This takes an incredible toll on the stunt team, which is why many martial arts-themed TV series gas out before the season finale. This is what made Silvera’s work on Daredevil so revolutionary at the time. Now, a half decade later, many TV shows have upped their action game, but they owe a great debt to Silvera and his team. “I really enjoyed bringing Daredevil to life. Charlie Cox was amazing. That was a pleasure working with Steve DeKnight on that show.” 

Since then, Silvera has tackled several super powered action icons for the silver screen, like Deadpool, Terminator: Dark Fate, and the Jaegers in Pacific Rim: Uprising. Silvera has fond memories of sitting down with director Tim Miller while working on Deadpool and Terminator: Dark Fate and setting the parameters of superpowers in combat. “It’s always that they’re really good at this, but what’s their weakness?” The audience will accept superpowers if the film stays consistent within its constructs. For Silvera, it’s about finding a new challenge in every sequence. “What I try and do is always make it super relative to the characters and then make it so that the audience can feel something when they watch it.”

Super Fights

Spanning eight episodes in Season 1, Jupiter’s Legacy allows Silvera the space to stretch his choreographic legs. “I believe the action on our show pushes the story and the characters forward, as much as it does on any of the other shows I’ve worked on in the past,” Silvera says. “And I’m super excited to see what fans think of the storytelling, the nonverbal storytelling, that happens within our action sequences.” 

Non-verbal storytelling lies at the very heart of every action choreographer. The fight scenes are the climax of the story and that unspoken dialogue of conflict must rise to that or else an actioner will fail. “Nonverbal communication,” stresses Silvera, “like The Empire Strikes Back, the scene that happens between Luke and Vader.” His passion for the Star Wars franchise led him to direct “Star Wars: Scene 38 ReImagined.” It was a reworking of the first lightsaber battle we ever saw – Obi-Wan Kenobi versus Darth Vader. Silvera spliced together footage from Star Wars: A New Hope with new fight footage. Doubling for Obi-Wan was Dan Brown (Black Panther, Spider-Man: Far from Home). Vader was Richard Cetrone, who was Ben Affleck’s stunt double in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. “Both are seasoned stuntmen in this business and have been around for a while,” adds Silvera.

“Scene 38 ReImagined” was a huge success with over 33.5 million views on YouTube. “That was a bit of a test for myself, as a second unit director and a first unit director,” says Silvera. “I wanted to see if I could add the emotional content into a sequence, that you know the character’s full story from beginning to end.”

From Comics Panels to Movie Frames

Choreographing superheroes has its own unique rules. A still comic panel is one thing. Setting that action into motion is another thing altogether. While comics are akin to storyboarding, when it comes to fights, a few panels describe that action. It then becomes Silvera’s job to unravel that into a fight with a dozen or more beats. 

One of his favorite examples for Jupiter’s Legacy is the “Hilltop” sequence. In the original comic, it’s a ferocious battle told over only four panels. Silvera saw that raw brutality and constantly built on that mindset with his choreography. 

“Those four panels really set the tone of our show and you’ll see that in the first episode.” He’s especially proud of this Hilltop sequence, as well as many other favorites. Two more sequences that he mentions with special pride he dubs “Tokyo Alley” and “The Vault,” but Silvera won’t elaborate on those cryptic titles just yet. “I don’t want to give away too much.” Fans who’ve already read the comic can probably guess what he’s talking about. “It starts off big and it stays that way up to the very end.” 

And for those fans familiar with Frank Quitely’s spectacular art, Silvera adds “We do our best to match those panels and the emotion that he puts into them. He really set the bar for us. And I think we met it.”

Superhero Boot Camp

As with many casts, most of the Jupiter’s Legacy actors have minimal background in martial arts or stunts. However, Silvera prefers it that way. “You get to figure out their characters and their movement in a different way.” He’d have ideas for them and then see something natural come out of their body language, which he would cultivate into something new and exciting. 

The cast was put through vigorous training where Silvera says they all worked extremely hard. “Literally a month of bootcamp with the lead actors training every day with our fight team and fight coordinator.” The cast would come in and work on basic movements and fight drills. “And then they would ride the wire for hours because there’s a lot of flying in the show.” 

As Supervising Stunt Coordinator, Silvera is quick to credit his fight and stunt rigging team. Micah Karns is the fight coordinator and Jayson Dumenigo is the 2nd Unit Stunt Coordinator and Key Rigger, a critical role for a flying superhero show. The threesome has worked together since Daredevil and teamed up again for several successive projects including Deadpool, Terminator, Pacific Rim, and Love, Death & Robots. 

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“We have such a tight workflow at this point, from the years of us working together, that we know how to expedite things,” Silvera says. “We know how to keep up the pace. And we’re definitely doing seven days a week on this show.” The stunt team worked hand-in-hand with the cast for months to achieve the action that they wanted. “I’m super excited to see them and what they did come together on screen.”

The post Jupiter’s Legacy: Choreographing Superheroic Stunts appeared first on Den of Geek.

from Den of Geek https://ift.tt/3o84dlO

[ghostspideys-moved]

We’ll Have Tomorrow

Chapter Eight

A/N: It’s finally Christmas time this chapter! Since I have this all typed out already, I can say that we’re a few chapters away from finishing this series.

Pairings: Steve Harrington x OC, Nancy Wheeler x Jonathan Byers x OC (eventually)

Word Count: 3k

Summary: Christmas is finally here, and everyone is really just trying to have a good time after the chaos they endured together.

Hawthorne had been deep asleep until he felt someone shaking him awake, followed by the eager squealing of, “It’s Christmas!” It was El, and she had the brightest smile on her face, which he could just make out through bleary vision as he started to wake up. 

Once El ran out of his room, he groaned and dragged himself out of bed. Naturally, El and River were both sitting next to the Christmas tree already. From the looks of it, he hadn’t been the only one dragged out of bed seeing as Hopper was slowly making his way out of his room as well. 

Hawthorne sat near the tree, still partially half asleep. Of course, El was the most excited of the three of them. Not that he was too surprised considering this was her first proper Christmas. River and Hawthorne, at this point, hadn’t celebrated a whole lot of holidays in general seeing as their father hadn’t cared too much about them anymore. More than anything, both of them were just excited to do some sort of celebrating for once in a really long time. 

Hopper bought each of them a few presents, figuring none of them would really care too much so long as they got anything at all. Of course, he’d been right. Hawthorne now had some more books to add to his collection, and he’d definitely need them to help his reading. He wasn’t bad at it, but he certainly had some trouble here and there, so he needed the practice. 

There was a knock at the door, and River set down the Walkman she’d been looking at curiously before racing to open it. Steve came in with bags of more presents, which Hawthorne definitely hadn’t expected. But he wasn’t going to complain at this point.

El was more than excited to see Steve, but she was also drawn to the bags of presents, hoping a decent amount of them were for her. Steve ruffled her hair and brought everything in before he started handing out more presents. 

Hawthorne was more than surprised he’d even bought as much as he had, because he really didn’t have to. Of course, he kind of remembered River saying she’d invited him, but this was more than he would have expected from Steve. 

It occurred to Hawthorne that Steve had a decent amount of money, so that was probably why he’d even bought so many presents. 

Of course, most of El’s presents were a bunch of toys and other things she might have found interesting. Not that it was hard considering how new everything was to her, and therefore, everything was interesting to her. She’d given Steve a tight hug in response, a good enough indication for him that she more than appreciated the gesture. 

Hawthorne wasn’t really sure he’d known, but Steve gave him a book full of information on lots of different plants. Of course, he suspected he’d just asked River. Not very many people knew that he really loved plants. Gardening in general was a favorite of his, even if he hardly got to do it outside of the botany club he’d joined. Nonetheless, he appreciated it, and he even gave Steve a slight smile, which might as well have been Hawthorne’s version of a hug by his own standards.

River, of course, received more comics, which she was more than excited to read later. If she didn’t already have a lot of them before, she definitely did now. She seemed especially over the moon to have more Superman comics. 

At some point, there was another knock, but a shared look of confusion told Hawthorne that River didn’t know who it was either. He got up to answer it and was surprised to find Jonathan at the door. In fact, it wasn’t just him, but also Will and Joyce. He let them in, and it seemed they also brought a few presents. Not nearly as many as Steve, of course, seeing as they didn’t really have much money to go around, but it was still appreciated. 

Joyce immediately joined Hopper, who must have been the one to invite them. He could already see Joyce trying to help out with dinner, which was probably for the best. Hopper wasn’t a bad cook, or anything, but he didn’t do a whole lot of it, other than breakfast. 

Hawthorne took his spot back on the couch as El was flipping through channels nonchalantly with her powers, hoping to find a good Christmas movie. 

Jonathan took a seat next to him, neither of them really saying anything right away. Neither of them really seemed to know if they were supposed to talk or not, or what they’d even talk about. It was quite an awkward moment of silence, and Hawthorne decided to be the one to say something first. 

“How, um...how’s Will doing?” he asked quietly. The kid seemed okay so far. He was sitting next to El, debating over what to watch. Of course, he knew better than to think Will was totally okay after being possessed by the Mind Flayer. The kid didn’t seem to like people worrying over him too much, so he wouldn’t be too surprised if Will was doing his best to seem like he was okay. He didn’t particularly blame him either.

“Fine,” Jonathan replied. “Mostly. I mean, he hasn’t complained about feeling strange. He might still be a little...rattled, I guess.”

Hawthorne nodded, figuring that might be the case. “You know him better than anyone, but if there’s anything I can tell about him already, it’s that he bounces back quickly. At least to some degree.”

He’d never really talked to Will before, but he could already tell he was a tough kid considering half the shit he’d been through. Even if he didn’t know he kid well, it was easy to see he could hold his own well enough.

“Yeah, he’s a lot tougher than he looks.” Jonathan even offered a smile, which Hawthorne had to admit looked nice on him. Why didn’t he smile more?

Hawthorne smiled back and turned when El and Will had finally agreed on Rudolph the red nosed reindeer. 

What might have made this moment even better was finding out Steve knew all the words to the song, which almost made Hawthorne laugh. He wasn’t bad at singing at all, but it was hilarious watching him sing along dramatically, and River looked more than embarrassed by his theatrics. She was laughing, sure, but she also had an exasperated look on her face. Probably because of how loudly he was singing.

Steve certainly didn’t seem very ashamed, but then again, he might have been doing it to embarrass River even further. Hawthorne couldn’t say he wasn’t guilty of doing the same, and he was finding it very entertaining. 

The look of relief on River’s face when they were all called for dinner might have actually been funnier. 

At the table, food was being passed around, and there was some light conversation here and there. It was kind of nice, actually. Especially when compared to how horrible things had been only a month ago. They weren’t exactly trying to forget so much as they were trying to keep some sense of normalcy in their lives. For that, Hawthorne couldn’t blame anyone, and it wasn’t like he hadn’t been doing the same. 

As Hawthorne was eating, he listened more than he actually talked. 

“I thought you said you guys don’t celebrate Christmas?” Steve asked River, his brows furrowed in confusion.

“Technically, we don’t,” she answered. “But El was super excited about it, and we haven’t really celebrated Hanukkah properly in a really long time, so this is just as fun, honestly. It’s just less days of celebrating.”

“Wait, don’t you get presents all eight days during Hanukkah?” Will asked. “I think I remember someone in my class mentioning that.”

Steve gasped and turned to River and Hawthorne. “You mean this whole time, I could have been getting you guys presents?”

“You brought a whole bag of them. I think that more than makes up for it,” Hawthorne pointed out. “Besides, no one said you had to.”

“I say I had to. If I would have known that, I would have given you guys presents on all eight days.” He almost seemed a little sad that he hadn’t had the chance, which was amusing on its own. 

River shrugged. “We kind of didn’t really pay attention to the days while we were settling in, so I didn’t even realize, in all honesty,” she said. “So don’t worry about it all that much.”

Steve didn’t seem any less sad about it, but he let it go for now. At this rate, Hawthorne wouldn’t be that surprised if he tried to give it a shot next year.

“First I miss your birthdays, and now I missed a whole eight days of a holiday?” He shook his head and stuffed his mouth with ham. “Such a wasted opportunity,” he mumbled between bites.

“Well, if it makes you feel any better,” Hawthorne said as he finished his plate, “this year the last day of Hanukkah is tomorrow.”

“When did it even start?”

“Last Tuesday.”

“That means it was going during the Christmas Party!” Steve exclaimed, turning to River.

She sighed and gave an apologetic look. “I told you. I forgot.”

Steve shook his head. Hawthorne could practically see the gears in his head turning, which almost scared him. Whatever  Steve might be planning, he wasn't sure he wanted to be around for it. He might not know him too well, but Hawthorne was sure any plan of his was bound to be...interesting to say the least.

Dinner went by quickly, and while everyone was socializing, Hawthorne slipped outside. Even in the warm flannel he wore ninety percent of the time, it was freezing. He could feel the cold air biting at his nose. It had to be red even if he hadn't been out terribly long. Despite the cold, he stood on the porch, leaning against the rail as he let his mind wander.

Hawthorne hadn't even heard the door open. Admittedly, he nearly jumped when Jonathan suddenly joined him. 

"Shit, don't give me a heart attack like that," he mumbled.

Jonathan snorted and stuffed his hands in his pockets. "What are you doing out here?" he asked. "It's cold as shit out here."

"I could ask you the same."

"I asked first."

Hawthorne chuckled and shrugged. "Fair enough. I'm just not much of a social person," he said.

Jonathan nodded. "Yeah. I can't really say it's really my scene either."

Hawthorne offered a small smile. He found his eyes wandering over Jonathan's figure. There wasn't any particular reason why, and he wasn't entirely sure why he was having the thoughts he was having. He had to admit, Jonathan was surprisingly easy to talk to, or maybe that was just him, and he wasn't unattractive by any stretch of the imagination. Of course, Hawthorne's face grew red the moment he'd been caught.

"Do I have something on my face?" Jonathan asked, a slightly teasing tone in his voice. 

Hawthorne's mouth went dry for a moment. "What? Oh, no. Sorry I just...I was thinking," he said.

"About?"

Sighing, he crossed his arms, his gaze turning forward again.

"Do you think...do you think everything will go back to normal now that everything's over?" he blurted out. "You know, after the Demodogs, the lab." He hesitated for a moment, turning to face him again. "Everything with your brother."

Jonathan smiled weakly and huffed, his breath escaping in a visible cloud that quickly dissipated. 

"The first time this happened, it took awhile for everything to go back to normal," he answered. "And even then, it was never truly the same. By now, I think I've accepted that it never really will be."

Hawthorne rubbed the back of his neck. "I guess you'd be the expert in this situation."

"I don't know if I'd say that," Jonathan said. "But I think I'm definitely qualified to give some advice at least." He grinned, and it was quite possibly the most genuine look Hawthorne had ever seen him give. It was almost strange how weak that look almost made him feel.

Hawthorne turned away from him again, not wanting Jonathan to see just how red his face was. He might be able to easily blame it in the cold, but it wasn't worth the risk at this rate. He wasn't even sure why he was suddenly thinking the way he was. At any rate, it became clear to him that he was going to have a hard time focusing near Jonathan.

~

Christmas quickly came and went in a rush. Even after several days, at least half of the decorations were still up. The tree, of course, was still standing, though a number of the decorations had either been removed or came off before someone put them away.

Hawthorne was busying himself with making breakfast. At least this way he could keep El from eating more Eggos, at least until lunch rolled around anyways.

He placed a plate in front of El when there was a knock at the door. Unsure who it might be, they both shared a look before Hawthorne went to check. Of course, he logically assumed it had to be any of El's friends, or Jonathan, or anyone else who would actually know where they were.

When he opened the door, Steve was standing on the other side. He should have been surprised perhaps, but it wasn't much of a shocker at this point.

He stared at Steve for a moment before turning inside the house. "River, Steve's here." Hawthorne felt it was safe to assume he was here for her.

"Actually, I have a bit of a surprise for everyone," Steve cut in. Well, there was first for everything, including Hawthorne being proven wrong.

El perked up at the mention of a surprise, and River was just coming out of her room when she'd heard him.

"A surprise? What kind of surprise?" she asked.

Steve grinned and motioned for all of them to follow him. The three of them shared a confused look before following.

He led them out to his car and stopped them. "Okay, so I was thinking about how you guys didn't get to celebrate Hanukkah," he started, excitedly fidgeting. "And I thought, 'what makes up for eight days worth of presents?' So, I think I finally figured it out."

Of all the things Hawthorne was expecting when Steve opened the car door, a dog was certainly the last thing.

A German Shepherd hopped out and jumped up at Steve, scratching at his legs. He was small enough that he picked it up, the grin on his face never leaving.

"So, what do you think?" he asked.

Hawthorne's mouth fell open. "You...got us a dog?"

"Yeah! Pretty cool, huh? I figured I'd have to go big to make up for missing eight days," he said, as if that truly explained everything. "And don't worry, I bought food, a bed, all that other good stuff."

El seemed a little hesitant at first, but when Steve handed the dog over and it licked her face, she laughed and pet it.

"Steve, this seems like a lot to throw at us this early in the morning," River sighed.

"I know, I know. And I'm sorry about that. I just...I wanted it to be a surprise."

Hawthorne turned to the dog, still content to be in El's arms, its tail wagging wildly.

"He also doesn't have a name yet. I thought you guys might want the honor," Steve added.

The three of them shared a look, trying desperately to think of a name they could agree on. After some debate, El tossed in an idea they all seemed to like.

“Why don’t we call him Rexasaurus Rex?” she suggested.

Of course, they weren’t going to tell her that was a weird name, especially because she didn’t have any concept yet of how naming worked. That, and she was a kid. It was cute, at least.

"How about we call him Rex for short?" River chimed in.

El seemed more than happy with that, so they decided that was a good enough name. Hawthorne felt like that fit him well enough.

"Shit, we should probably see how Hopper feels about this?" Hawthorne realized.

Steve shrugged. "Don't worry. If he hesitates, I've been known to be persuasive."

They all went back inside where, luckily, Hopper was watching TV as he usual did on his days off. He looked up when he heard all of them, though he paused when he spotted Rex. 

“That’s a dog,” he said rather observantly.

“Yeah, about that. Steve bought us a dog,” River said. “We can keep him, right?”

Hopper seemed rather hesitant, but before he could refuse, El cut in. 

“We’ll take care of him ourselves.” She gave him a pleading look. Her big, brown eyes mixed with a pout were enough to crack anyone, even Hopper it seemed. 

He sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose. “Fine. But you guys will have to take care of him,” he said. “And we’ll have to set some rules, because he’s not allowed on the couch, for starters.”

They cheered and went to help Steve take in everything else. Hawthorne helped set up once it was decided Rex’s bed would go between their rooms. Once they were good to go, they let Rex sniff around a little as Steve was on his way out. He let them discuss how they were going to divide up their responsibilities, which, of course, took some debate.

It took a while, but eventually the three of them came to an agreement. The general agreement seemed to be that none of that they’d take turns with the different chores involved in taking care of a dog. They were also in agreement that the only thing they really cared about was that they actually had a dog now.

Hawthorne realized this was probably the most normal he’d felt in a long time, and he could definitely get used to it.

Taglist: @bravest-at-heart​ @musicalytrashpanda​ @queenofthehairharrington​

[writerseven]

Im physically holding myself back from sending all the reader ask emojis, but how about: 😍🤷‍♀️🏆💏😭

(from these asks)

😍 What is your favorite fic trope?

If we’re sticking to Dark Content Brand TM here, then listen...I just never stop coming back to ‘bruce wayne is an abusive parent and also probably fucks his kids’. Delightfully horrible. Extremely excellent. Nudge Bruce just sliiightly to the left and he becomes the worst parent ever, while keeping most of his characterization.

And the endless options to chose from in which kid(s) he hurts and how! and how they all interact based on that! and who finds out and when! and what pieces of canon I can take and shift slightly to fit this new backstory, or not even have to shift at all!

At any given time, I am having three new ideas about bruce being a terrible father.

(If we’re going in the more general sense for tropes, then I just love extreme angst with a happy ending. I want my faves to be okay eventually but they gotta hurt first.)

🤷 What thing that your fandom loves do you just not “get”?

sdfghjk I could list so many little peeves and bits of fanon characterization that I Do Not Jive With and could probably do a whole ask meme about just that. But for now I will just say I’m not that into a/b/o! For reasons unclear to me, it seems super common in the DC fandom.

There’s some stuff in there that works for me, but a lot that doesn’t: I’m not personally into some of the common kinks involved, a lot of times I feel like characters have the entirety of their interesting characterization stripped away for very flat ‘big rough alpha’/‘whimpering weak omega’ archetypes (and ‘beta’ meaning ‘the writer does not care about this character’), and on occasion I feel like the playing with gender and fantasy worldbuilding just loops right back around to barely-modified old-school misogyny in a way that bugs me.

I definitely have enjoyed some PWP a/b/o fics nonetheless! But when I think of the one or two a/b/o fics that I found genuinely interesting and compelling as more than just horny content...I think they’re all deconstructions of the trope lmaosdgfhj. To each their own! But, yeah, I don’t really get it. 🤷

🏆 What do you wish more authors in your fandom would write about?

also so many things, and I could really just @ myself for half of these. (you all are permitted to yell at me to write any of these things.) More comics!titans content, especially the fab five! More terribad luthor/superman content where lex luthor is the horrible man he was meant to be! More terribad Tim/Ra’s, because for a dark pairing that seems to get talked about a lot, there’s really not that much actual dark fic for them! More preboot Roy Harper! More Cass and Steph and Barbara included in the batfam, and less Bruce-And-Four-Boys-Only. (I know I said I wasn’t going to lists peeves on the last question, but I get to slip in one, okay. The new52 and following reboots distorted so many things, and I think one of the worst things it did batfam-wise was convince everyone the batfam is Bruce And Sons And Maaaybe Barbara.)

Also, just in general, I think we could all stand to go back to the source material a little bit and draw from there again. (I definitely include myself in that!) It’s so so easy to just ping pong the same concepts back at each other, but sometimes I feel like we’re stagnating without new ideas. Some of my favorite (mostly not dark) fics I’ve read are really clearly pulling from distinct comic refs, and it lends a grounding and history to the characters that I really enjoy.

💏 Who is your OTP?

You know, I wrote like five answers to this question before realizing that I just don’t think I can answer it. Honestly, it’s very rare for me to strongly ship anything in the sweet/romantic sense. Technically I could say RoyDick for this because they currently are one of those rare cases (and when I was reading NTT I really did love DickKory), but that feels misleading because I rarely-to-never seek out shipfic. I mostly go by individual characters I’m invested in!

When it comes to darkfic (because that is what I made this account for), there are some classic combos that work well--Slade/Dick, Ra’s/Tim, Bruce/all his children--but still, I go a lot more for “which character do I want to see cry today” than seeking out pairings. I do get excited every time there’s a new BruTim darkfic posted!! But, still, I feel like that’s more “I want to see Tim cry in this specific way” than something I’d classify as an OTP. Character >>>> Ship for me every time.

😭 Has a fic ever left you inconsolable?

Sometimes I read a fic where everything is awful to the bitter end and ends hopelessly, but I find myself consciously pulling away from those fics when I sense where they’re going specifically to avoid this. Which I guess implies the answer to this is a firm yes before I learned to do that, but GOD if I can remember which fics they were.

(The only fic I can remember atm that made me uncontrollably cry is ‘the gentle sin is this’ which is actually a largely sweet fic that ends on a decidedly happy note! and also is a neither dark nor taboo roy/dick fic that in no way resembles any of the content anyone here followed me for! so do what you will with that ig????)

Thanks so much for the ask!! Feel free to send others if you want ♥

[schrijverr]

Meeting at the Manor

The Justice League has a meeting at the Wayne Manor, but it’s interupted when the batboys have a fight upstairs and Bruce has to intervene.

  On AO3

Ships: none

Warnings: none, not really

~~~~~~~~~~~~

“The Tower will be unavailable for our next meeting. We will need another place for it to take place, any suggestions?” Superman said.

A murmur went through the League, most didn’t have a place and no one really wanted to go to a boring meeting, so they saw this as a good opportunity to skip. Batman noticed what was going on and glared as he grudgingly said: “If there is no other way we can use the manor.”

An excited ripple went through the group, everyone knew Batmans strict no Meta-Humans in Gotham policy. Batman noticed their thought train as well and snapped: “Meetings are vital to success, but I do not enjoy inviting you to my city. You will arrive for the meeting and leave right after, anyone who stays longer than necessary will be chased out” a pause, “with violence.”

Most swallowed, but Superman just grinned and said: “Thank you, Batman.”

Batman grunted in acknowledgement, but that was it. He was then quick to leave the meeting, a small thunder cloud still above his head.

Superman watched him leave and shook his head, Bruce would never not be anti-social.

~

They arrived in the Batcave and marveled at the gigantic dinosaur and penny, but they didn’t have time to look at more stuff, because soon there were clothes in their faces. Batman stood in the middle and lights went out. He said: “Put those on, lets go upstairs.”

They looked to the clothes in their hands, they were normal civilian clothes. They looked at each other before shrugging and putting them on. They followed Batman upstairs, all tried to see as much of the Batcave as possible, but the lights were out and the walk was short. Batman wanted to keep his secrets.

They entered the Manor and looked in awe, technically they knew Batman was Bruce Wayne and a billionaire, but this made it a bit more real, even seeing Batman without cowl in a suit was weird even though there were tons of pictures of him in a suit and without a cowl. He led them through a few halls to a big dining hall. They weren’t dining, but it served their purpose. They took place at the table and Superman started the meeting.

They were 30 minutes in and it was a normal meeting so far. People had gotten over their awe and were now participating in the meeting and the strangest thing that had happened was a butler who had brought them some refreshments, to whom Batman had, honest to God, smiled as he thanked him.

They had just reached the 40 minutes mark when it happened. A scream was heard from upstairs, followed by someone yelling: “Demon Spawn, I swear I am this close.”

There was a muffled reply and then bullet shots echoed through the hall. Multiple Members had sprung up from their chairs, ready to help. But Batman held his hand up as he sighed. He seemed to have aged a couple of years in the last few seconds. He cocked his head and listened again, the League listened with him. Another voice yelled: “Jason, we talked about shooting siblings!”

The first voice yelled back: “He started it, besides it were rubber bullets, don’t get your panties in a twist, Dick.”

A younger, but offended voice could now be heard as well: “I did not start this, Todd. I just came into your room, you should have paid attention, then you wouldn’t have been scared.”

No one, but Superman could hear the tired voice saying: “He does have a point, Jason.”

But all could hear the reply: “Don’t get involved, replacement!”

The second voice, who had been called Dick, said: “Guys, keep it down. We promised B.”

“I don’t give a shit!”

It was quiet for a few moments after that. Everyone turned to Batman who just put his head in his hands and said: “Just don’t.”

Most were thorn between curiosity and giving Batman privacy, but before they could make a decision on which to act when an explosion was heard. Batman looked ready to murder someone when he suddenly stood up from his chair and marched to the door. He threw it open, on the other side was a gigantic stair case. He yelled: “Boys, come right here and tell me what the fuck is going on!”

Most shared a few looks before looking at the spectacle that was unfolding in front of them. They could hear running and then four black haired boys appeared on top of the staircase. The smallest and the one with a white streak in his hair were covered in residue of an explosion, all were looking a bit guilty.

The youngest said: “Todd started it, father.”

Immediately the other explosion kid, who they assumed was Todd, gaped at the smaller one and exclaimed: “I didn’t start shit, you were to one sneaking around, Demon Spawn!”

Batman sighed again and the League would feel sorry for him if it weren’t for the sudden appearance of children who had called Batman father and all looked very similar to Bruce. I mean, they knew, but it’s hadn’t really sunk in that Bruce Wayne WAS Batman and what that meant child-wise. Batman tiredly said: “Jason we talked about using violence in arguments and property destruction. Damian, why were you Jasons room?”

The youngest, now identified as Damian looked away. A zombie like kid put up his hand and said: “If you know can we go?”

Batman nodded and the kid opened his mouth. Instantly he was taken down by the two guilty parties, Batman started waked towards to tear them apart, but the oldest was quicker. He started to pull Damian off and while he was doing that Batman had time to free the zombie kid from Jason. He asked: “What were you going to say, Tim?” while he glared at Damian and Jason.

Both just shrugged and looked away. That scared Flash and Green Lantern a lot, because who could be nonchalant under the Batglare?

The zombie kid, or Tim as Batman had called him, said: “Damian was looking for some soft stuff for his new kittens and scared Jason, who reacted. Oh and speaking about proper destruction. How much did you value the painting with the three dogs running in the fields?”

Batman rubbed his face and pinched the bridge of his nose. He looked at the two who had been fighting with a calculating look. He then said with a hint of finality: “You two have to clean the Batcave, together. And the hallway.”

Both squawked and started to protest, but it only angered Batman more. He said: “Dick, get handcuffs. They are doing this very much together.”

The oldest smiled wickedly and grabbed handcuffs from the back of his belt. Batman gave him a look and he shrugged: “I almost have to go to work.”

Batman excepted that and cuffed the two protesting boys together. He gave them a stern look and said: “I’ll know.”

Both boys swallowed. Batman turned around and walked back to the dining room. They could see the oldest laughing at his brothers before the two shared a look and jumped him together, then the door closed. Batman shook his head and said: “Sorry about that. I hoped that all could find something to do, but of course those four had to stay behind.”

It was quiet then Flash yelled: “Wait, there are more!”

[cxramel-cat]

POSSESSION - chapter 09

Chapt. 01 ◾ Chapt. 02 ◾ Chapt. 03 ◾ Chapt. 04 ◾ Chapt. 05 ◾ Chapt. 06 ◾ Chapt. 07 ◾ Chapt. 08

Other links: AO3 | Wattpad 

( INJUSTICE: GOD AMONG US VERSE ) 「one minute   one life change   one decision   one action 」 ────────── ❝ Why? ❞

The question wavered through Kal’s mind. He threw away the corpse he was holding. His attention settled on the boy who had witnessed his every action. His original plan was to kill the young Bruce Wayne from existing in the future. Joe Chill was making Kal’s job easier. The man was going to do the dirty work for him.

He could change things back, to the way they were supposed to be. No deaths. No betrayal. No Batman.

"Do I have to?"

It wasn't a question. It was a demand.

Kal had a brow raised. His arms folded over his chest. His eyes threatened Diana to try and oppose him. Diana sighed at the crankiness of her lover. He had been absent at most of the meetings, spending more time with his little human. People around them had been starting to question him. Especially ever since the whole incident between Damian and Kal.

Everyone knew a fight would break out. Anything related to Bruce was enough to make Damian angry. The fact that his father's younger self was living in the same building as him— it was more than enough to set off a huge fight between Damian and Kal.

However much they quarrelled, however much Damian questioned , nobody had expected Kal to hurt Damian. The Kryptonian's emotions hadn't been stable since he'd lost his wife. Still, he'd never crossed the line and hurt someone innocent before— especially his own companions.

The first time he'd hurt Hal, everyone had accepted it without questioning much since they'd all agreed. The fact was that the Yellow Lantern had taken a step too far in his treatment of a child. He'd injured an innocent for his own pride.

But Damian was like a son towards Kal. The boy might be arrogant, he might be difficult at certain times, but Kal had never physically hurt him. They didn't know what had moved Kal to hurt a child he viewed as his son, but despite not knowing they could feel that something was changing within their leader.

"Yes, you have to." Diana's reply was final. Her tone was stern, giving no space for discussion. "Your absence has caused our soldiers to start doubting you. With the recent incidents - including Hal's broken arm and Damian's injured state, our companions are starting to wonder if you are even serious with your promise of Order. The least you should do by now, to gain back everyone's trust, is to attend the meeting."

He gave out a sigh — clearly unhappy with the decision Diana had made. "Fine," he said. "But for three days? Can't we finish the deal in one day?"

"Kal." She took a step towards him. Her fingers wrapped around his wrist. Her eyes gazed into his. "You seem extremely distressed recently. Not only does this meeting prove your claims to the others, you could consider these three days as a relief from taking care of Bruce. You've been caring for the boy every day. You must be tired." She leaned forward, pressing a kiss on his cheek. "Consider this as a short break for you. Maybe it will allow you to think more clearly. Please?"

A sense of hesitation glinted in his eyes when she moved forward to kiss him. However, Kal did not push Diana away. He felt odd. He felt insecure for an unknown reason. He was confused by his own thoughts. He loved Lois, his wife. But did he hold the same feeling towards Diana?

Or Bruce? Is that why he'd dreamed of the vigilante in his sleep?

He wanted to neutralize those toxic thoughts.

It was just so confusing and perplexing, Kal felt as if his head would explode.

He nodded stiffly. Diana seemed to be contented at his agreement. He hesitated, but his promised arrival to the meeting of Atlantians was more than enough for her.

"Well then, I will let Aquaman know about this." With that, Diana left his office. He was being left alone in the small space of the room. However, he didn't felt troubled about it. In fact, the silence was good. He found he preferred it suddenly, needed the silence to clear of his thoughts.

Perhaps she's right. Maybe I have been too tired and emotional recently. It would certainly explain why he would have such an insane dream. With that in mind, he decided to forget about the confusing feelings and his wet dream of Batman. Just like Diana said, he could take this meeting as a break from all of his chores.

Maybe, what he needed right now the most wasn't a child, but a lover to enjoy his time with.

All the same, Kal couldn't bring himself to smile at the thought.

★

There weren't many items he needed to prepare to leave, except for the plan of finding a babysitter for Bruce. Despite the fact that he knew Bruce was the most comfortable when he was with Alfred, Kal couldn't trust the man easily. He had limited the butler's visits with Bruce, and whenever they did meet, he made sure he was around to watch the human's every movement. So far, there was nothing Alfred had tried to do, aside from spending good quality parenting time with the child.

Thus, Kal needed to have someone he trusted to keep an eye on Bruce and Alfred, to make sure the man didn't try anything funny while he wasn't around. His choices were limited. There were only a few members of the Regime who he trusted wholeheartedly --- and Hal had already broken his trust by leaving Bruce alone in a dark room all by himself.

As he thought deeply, Kal noticed a little girl trip and fall. He was about to go down and help her when Flash arrived.

"Are you alright?" Barry's tone was gentle as he helped the girl back to her feet. Tears were brimming in the girl's eyes as she whimpered. Her knees were scraped from the fall. "Hey, don't cry." Barry cupped the girl's cheeks, wiping her tears away with his thumbs. "Give me a second." In an instant, the speedster was out of sight. Within seconds, the man was back with a first-aid kit. He brought the girl to the nearest bench as he started to treat her wounds.

Kal watched with interest. Barry was gentle with his movement as he carefully helped the child to clean her wound. And once he pasted a bandaid on the girl's scrapes, he went to the ice cream stall nearby and brought back a two-scoop cone for the girl.

In just a few minutes, the child was back on her feet, tears dried up and pain forgotten. She thanked the speedster for his help and treat before she jogged away, the ice cream cone held in her hand as a smile spread wide over her lips.

The sight made Kal wonder yet again. Why wouldn't people understand the sacrifices he had made and the effort he had given in hope for a perfect, harmless world for everyone? There were children in certain countries who had lost their smiles at a young age and struggled to live every day. With his power, Kal had cleared off all the criminals and promised a safe environment for the younger generation. So why wouldn't people see what he had done for them?

"Is there something I could help you with, Big Guy?" Once the child was out of their sight, Barry glanced over his shoulder at the figure who slowly landed down behind him.

"I'm heading off to Atlantis with Diana for a few days. I needed a babysitter for Bruce. I was thinking that maybe you could take the job." His tone was sincere. However, Barry was visibly shocked at his request. The speedster hesitated for a moment, likely remembering how Hal had gotten a broken arm during the last task of babysitting Bruce. Technically Hal dug up the troubles himself by scaring Bruce and angering Kal. Barry's nervousness betrayed how unprepared he was to meet the consequences if he would not be a good babysitter. Kal hoped he would be.

"I know the last incident that happened was because of the grudge Hal held towards Batman." As if noticing Barry's dilemma, Kal assured him. "This time, I would like to acquire you . And only you. I knew you were good with kids, Barry. And you don't seem like the type who would hold a grudge towards someone --- especially not a child. So what do you say?"

Obviously, there was no space to bargain. Kal was giving him the look, which pressured him to agree on what the Kryptonian wanted. With a sigh, Barry nodded his head.

"Fine. I'll do my best, Superman."

★

"When are you coming home?"

Home.

It was a surprise how quickly Bruce viewed the small space of Kal's room as his home. While Kal was glad at how easily Bruce was getting used to his life now, he felt guilty for trapping the child in such a small room. It almost felt like Bruce was a prisoner. However, it wasn't as if he could easily reveal Bruce's identity to the world. Nor did Kal trust anyone not to hurt Bruce if he allowed the boy to wander around. Maybe he would bring the child out someday. Maybe. Someday.

"I will be back as soon as possible."

The grip on his cape tightened. Kal looked over his shoulder. Bruce was biting on his lips. He stared at Kal like a broken puppy. It was obvious the child didn't like the thoughts of him not being around for three days. He appreciated the boy's desire to be with him. However, he couldn't look straight into Bruce's eyes without remembering the dream he had the night before.

He almost felt disgusted at himself by the mere thought of it.

"Be a good boy to Barry, okay?" He squatted down and hugged Bruce tightly. The boy returned his hug. Tiny fingers grasped onto his cape tightly. Bruce didn't want to let Kal go. However, he still forced himself to nod his head as he finally let go of his grip on Kal.

Kal held Bruce in his arms. He gently tossed the boy into the air, causing a light giggle to escape through Bruce's chest before he was back in his grasp. Then, he kissed Bruce on his forehead before he placed the child in Flash's arms.

"I expect you to take good care of Bruce these three days, Barry "

Kal turned on his heel and began walking away. Barry looked at the retreating figure before he looked at the boy in his arms. Bruce was watching Kal as he disappeared from view. A whimper left the child, but Barry patted him on his back.

Hopefully, a younger Bruce was going to be nothing like the boy's older self.

★

The first day was long and full of things to do. Thus, it was only natural to have bedtime earlier, since Bruce looked like he was about to pass out as he drew another picture with the crayons. The child let out a strained yawn as he rubbed the sleepiness out of his eyes. Barry watched, a small smile spreading across his face before he stood up from his chair and headed over to the little sleepyhead.

"I think it's about time you get to bed." He bent over, tenderly running his fingers through the boy's hair. Bruce glanced up, his eyelids drooping heavy with tiredness.

"Not sleepy." Bruce shook his head even as he turned back to his artwork.

Barry sighed. He had expected some amount of resistance. Kneeling down to Bruce's level, he spoke. "But Bruce, you can hardly keep your head up." He pointed as he placed a hand on the boy's back and rubbed soothing circles.

"I can still... wait," Bruce said as he sat up straight, only to slowly relax back into his slumped position, yawning once more.

Barry shook his head at Bruce's defiance before scooping the kid into his arms and setting him on his lap. It seemed to take the child some amount of time to register what had happened. Once he did, they were already on the bed.

"No! I'm not tired!" Bruce stated indignantly, fidgeting in the man's grasp as he tried to escape. Of course, it was a feeble endeavour and Barry barely had to hold up his end of the fight.

"Silly boy, you're absolutely exhausted. Let's go to bed." He entered the bedroom and set Bruce down on the king-sized bed -- it was already dressed in sheet and prepared for any necessities he might need at night.

"Have to wait..." Bruce announced from the bed, trying to scoot to the end and climb off. Barry caught him before he could fall and plopped the little boy right back.

"No, Bruce. It's time for bed. Let's change you in to your pajamas and get under the sheets. You need to sleep." Barry said in a stern tone. His patience was running thin as the evening wore on.

"No, wait! I have to wait!" Bruce said with a pout of frustration.

"Wait for what? What do we need to wait for?" Barry asked, wondering if getting an answer from him would put the kid to sleep faster.

"I have to wait for Kal. I don't want to sleep without him by my side."

Barry paused. He finally realized what was going on. Since Bruce was only seven, the little boy probably never had a proper sleepover before. Not to mention, after the tragic deaths of his parents, he had been living with the existence of Superman next to him. Kal-El was his emotional support. He obviously missed the adult, which made the task of luring him to sleep very difficult.

"Bruce," Barry started calmly. He gingerly laid a few fingers on the child's cheeks and tenderly tracing lines along his smooth skin. "You remember that Kal has something very important he has to do right now? He can't be here now. But he wants you to be a good boy until he gets back, alright?" He tried his best to make his voice appeared soft and compassionate as possible. However, the news was painful to hear and as soon as he finished the explanation, tears gathered at the corner of Bruce's eyes.

"But..." Bruce began, only to be interrupted by a hiccup as tears trickled down his cheeks. A knot twisted in Barry's heart and he pulled the child into his embrace, leaning his head against Barry's chest. He stroked Bruce's hair in comfort.

"Bruce, he is doing something very important right now. He won't be able to come back tonight. But you know, he misses you just as much as you do. I am sure he will be back soon. Hasn't he promised you?" He reassured vaguely, hoping the next night wouldn't be as heartbreaking for Bruce. The child clutched his tiny fists against Barry's shirt, sobbing quietly.

"He has to... he always comes back to say goodnight to me. He always reads me stories before I sleep and we make a pinky promise that he won't disappear before I wake up. He has to be here—" The little boy mumbled, sniffling meekly and burying his head deeper into the fabric. Barry lightly stroked his hair a few more times, humming a soft tune before separating the child from himself. He ran each of his thumbs underneath the child's eyes, catching the tears before they had a chance to fall.

"He can't be here tonight. But this is why I am here with you. Tonight, I will take his place of protecting you in your dreams. I promise that I won't disappear before you wake up. You can hold onto my pinky to make sure I don't walk away at night." Barry smoothed back Bruce's unruly hair, placing a kiss on his forehead, then traced his thumbs under tired eyes once more. "And when he is back, you have to give him a great big hug and a kiss on the cheek. Just to make sure he won't disappear again. Okay?" he continued with a smile, brushing his nose against Bruce's before using his fingers to tickle his belly.

The sobbing had slowly faded away, being replaced with light giggle at the ticklish feeling on his skin. He tried to wriggle out of Barry's hold, smiling as if he hadn't been crying a moment ago. Barry leaned forward to blow a raspberry on the child's belly. Bruce laughed as he attempted to struggle --- only to end up losing as Barry tickled him into submission.

★

He heard the cries. Kal reminded himself to push off the thoughts of Bruce in his mind. However, he still couldn't stop himself from listening to the child's moments. His laughter, his light giggles --- Kal made sure he didn't miss any of those. Which is why, upon hearing a sob from the boy, Kal had to force himself to stay in his seat instead of rushing out of Atlantis and back to Bruce.

'I have to wait for Kal.' The mere words were heartbreaking. He almost regretted his decision to come to this negotiation. There was nothing they had to negotiate about this. All Arthur needed to do was subjugate himself and his kingdom to the Regime and everything would be done. Kal shouldn't be here, listening to details he could care less about at this moment. Not even the glorious meal in front of him could brighten up his mood.

He just wanted to go home. He wanted to go back to Bruce. He wanted to collect his boy in his arms and tell him everything was okay and he was there with him. But no, he had to stay here underwater with a bunch of people who were obviously displeased with his existence

Once their dinner was finished, Diana and Kal were escorted to their room. Kal's brows furrowed at the sight of a room with only one bed presented to him and Diana. While he knew his relationship with Wonder Woman was publicly known, somehow the thought of sharing a bed with the Amazonian just didn't feel right at this moment. However, the servant who escorted them didn't seem to notice his displeasure, as she left without another word.

Diana excused herself to the bathroom. She batted her eyes at him, her hands slid past his biceps as she suggestively asked Kal to join her in the shower. He denied her with a tight smile, giving the reason of wanting to lay on the bed for a while before he went to join her.

Now, he sat on the corner of the bed. He had taken off his cape and folded it neatly before placing it on the nightstand. His boots were pulled off, setting down next to the nightstand. He didn't know what he was supposed to expect tonight. Well, maybe he had expected what to happen. And this was probably why he agreed to come to this negotiation.

He wanted to spend some alone time with Diana. He just felt like he had to prove to himself that he could still be a man. Especially after that dream about Batman giving him a blowjob.

Oh God, that dream.

He had almost forgotten about it. However, it surged back in his mind. That might have been his main reason for agreeing to Diana's request so easily. Kal needed to prove to himself that he was still a sexually healthy and heterosexual male. He had agreed on coming here and expected to share some intimate moments with Diana, just to prove to himself that he was straight. If it wasn't due to the dream, he probably would have never come here, feeling awkward and insecure to do anything.

Was it all just to prove to himself? Was it selfish and vulgar? Why did the dream bother him so much?

"Damn it..." He covered his eyes with his palm, giving out a groan. "What is wrong with me?"

To be continued.

[psychopomp-reborn]

I think maybe one of the reasons why I loved characters like Superman & Optimus Prime so much in my youth was that I craved a sense of stability.

Like, specifically emotional stability. My parents fought on occasion, maybe not enough to warrant blaming everything on them, but they definitely were on a hair-trigger when it came to raising their three kids. It wouldn't take much to set them off, to the point where my younger sister made it a game to see how quickly she could piss them off. I (undeservedly) hated her for that, but I know now her actions were just the consequences of my parents' parenting style.

So seeing these characters, father figures I guess, who would not only support & show genuine compassion to their friends/family/teammates, but when their friends/fam/tms did something they didn't necessarily approve of, they wouldn't yell. Or berate. Or even really show disappointment, they just wanted them to be the best possible versions of themselves & encouraged them to go on.

When I was in my teenage years, I thought those kinds of characters were dumb & for kids. I wanted "adult" characters, like Batman & Spawn & Ghost Rider. Edgy looking guys with deep-rooted issues who wouldn't (or couldn't) ever let go of the past. But it was cool to me, because they wouldn't let the world take them down. Or so I thought.

But now that I'm growing up again, technically already in adulthood, I realize just how important Supes & Optimus were. Sure, they aren't the "cool edgy badboy", but they were what I needed. & honestly, they're what I aspire to be, even if I mess up alot.

I dont want to be angry or bitter anymore. The cycle needs to end with me, one way or another.