#if Bruce has trouble communicating then he learn it from Alfred

[hopefully-helpful-daemon]

People need to realize that this 'emotionally repressed' 'bad at communicating' 'doesn't know how to show love so doesn't even try' Bruce that's so popular with fandom, can't exist at the same time as 'best father of the year' 'tried his hardest' 'kind, compassionate grandfather' Alfred that the fandom loves so much !

[nemesis-writer]

[Unwanted Ransom (Chapter 1)]

What was I made for?

TW: Mentions of Death, PTSD, ED, SH, Neglect

Masterlist

🎵Thumbs- Sabrina Carpenter🎵 🎵What was I made for?- Billie Ellish🎵

On my first day of staying here, I was excited to see if I had brothers.

Dick the oldest, supposed to be there for me, and pose as a role model right? WRONG, he instead leaves me on read when I text him. The fucker has enough guts to ignore me, and when he notices me, it's when I either get in trouble at school, or when his teamates talk to me. He had time to look after Bludhaven.

Tim, one of the family's detectives, doesn't find me interesting, and thinks of himself too big to talk to a lowlife like me. AND WE LIVE IN THE SAME FUCKING HOUSE FOR CRYING OUT LOUD. With him, I have little to no memories. All he does is twiddle his thumbs, pretending I wasn't there.

Cass, Steph, Barb. I never really cared bout' them, all they do is talk shit about others, and play daddy's little girl. I was never daddy's little girl and I never complained. Not much to really talk about with them, I even learned ASL just for some light communication.

Jason, alright, I'mma be honest here. He was the closest thing I had to a brother, but he only came to the house at night for some food and rest. The best memory with him, was him taking me to school on the first day, I joined grade 5 class because I have an IQ of 190. Everything was great until he died, a part of me died with him.

Damian, the "golden apple" of this whole shit hole. This bitch thinks that he can do anything, because he is the bastard of Bruce Wayne, and Talia Al Ghul. He gets to train with Dick, while I watch them train to become a "hero". He bullied me even when I was a year older than him. Ughh, what a bitch. He was the reason I got the name Jinx, I was the bad luck of the family

Bruce, the man had the guts to adopt me and change my true name to a wayne. I was named Xerxes because it meant warrior, my dad never thought I was one. I'm not even allowed to call him dad.

Alfred, oh sweet innocent Alfred. I considered him as my father when my mother's "sperm donor", couldn't be there for me. He was there to teach me how to bake and cook, the best part was that he never admonished me for my bad behavior at school.

For 4 years I had lived with them, every night I had prayed for a miracle to happen. At night the same dream, every morning, the same nightmare. After the first 5 months of my stay, I started to avoid eating, because of depression.

And before I go to bed I looked for any blade I could, and locked myself in my bedrooom. I cut myself below the wrist, while keeping a first aid nearby. I never felt any pain from the wounds, but I felt the scar in my heart.

It's ironic how a whore with nothing, could love a child more, than a family that has everything. I always laughed at the idea, I never allowed myself to cry or show weakness. Bruce never knew how to deal with emotions anyway, so why cry?

I never cried, when Damian slashed my arm with a knife. Not when Barbara told me to go to hell, not when Tim destroyed the birthday present I made for him. And especially when Bruce called me a mistake. I only cried when Jason was murdered by the Joker.

I always thought crying was useless, so I worked hard. I got straight A's, I made friends, I enlisted for multiple sports when I turned 10. I even took up art just for the sake of fitting in.

But I will always be the Wayne pushed from the spotlight. Not even then, could I cry.

I just went to my dilapidated bedroom, God, it was ornamented with all of my awards and certificates. I started to pack my stuff, I even took the photo of me and my mother. There wasn't much to pack, all I got were hand me downs, and the dregs of my "beloved siblings."

At night, it was the perfect time to escape, with the villains on the loose, they had to take night shifts. So I slowly climbed out of my window and placed the note I had prepared for Alfred. And I prepared to go to the abyss that awaits me...

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A/N Hiii... I got this idea from reading @acid-ixx, and @luludeluluramblings... I'm making a seperate part for the note Jennifer gave Alfred. HOPE U LUV THIS <333

[blu3-ja3]

So I kinda rewrote a bunch of my cursed Gotham stuff! But it's here now so enjoy!

Cursed Gotham Masterpost

Leave the City (Our Lady Gotham)

Tim's POV

Gotham has been quiet which has been a godsend because Wayne Manor hasn't. School had started for everyone, Alfred helped keep everything together as Bruce scrambled to get everything settled. But even before the chaos of multiple kids going to school there was chaos.

It was a shock to everyone when Talia Al Ghul arrived on the doorstep of the manor that rainy spring night. Even more so when Bruce noticed the body of Jason Todd in her arms and the small form of Damian standing behind his mother ready to defend her from those chasing them.

Bruce immediately had the trio enter the house, Alfred took the unconscious body of Jason. I'd never seen the man cry but I will never forget watching that singular tear roll down his cheek. Bruce asked Selina to help Talia with any injuries as Bruce disappeared after Alfred.

Cass never said a thing to Damian but for whatever reason he attached himself to her side. She was the only one who was able to get the boy's injuries wrapped and cleaned while Selina helped Talia. Duke and Steph were so confused and we all just stood around useless until Bruce reappeared. Everyone was sent to the sitting room while Selina, Talia, Bruce and Alfred had a serious discussion.

None of us really know what was talked about in Bruce's office that night but we do know that Talia was in trouble. That she no longer felt safe keeping Damian around her father, that Bruce was the only person Talia trusted to keep their son safe from the LoA and Ras himself.

Jason's revival was still a mystery to everyone including himself. He says one moment he remembers heat and blistering pain, the next he's waking up in the dark buried alive. Talia doesn't know either she found him while running, she recognized Jason rather quickly and knew something was wrong. She took it as a sign to go to Bruce, it took them three days to get across Gotham without being caught by Talia's father.

To say it was easy would be a lie, whatever brought Jason back had left him with cracks. Bruce ran as many tests as he could before allowing Dick to call in Raven for help. She told Bruce that errant magic seemed to bound itself to Jason, Raven doesn't know why or where it came from but that was all she could glean.

Jason was upset at Bruce once he realized Joker was still around, he got even more furious when he learned what happened to Barbara and eventually me when I felt comfortable enough to talk about it. But Dick was quick to act and calm Jason by showing him the archived footage of Bruce's rampage being stopped by Superman.

It took us months to help Damian settle into life as a normal kid, Cassandra helped Damian the most. The two understood each other better than most, it made plenty of sense and Cass though typically mute was better than most of us when communicating with Damian.

Summer break wasn't as chaotic for the Wayne's but Gotham had some issues, it started with a sudden earthquake. It was a massive one that caused a part of Arkham to collapse, we spent a great deal of time trying to catch everyone who did escape. Thankfully no big names from the rogues gallery only a few.

Then the fall semester started and somehow Bruce learned that Kon was staying at Titans Towers. There were a lot of people upset with Superman the days following, no one knew that Supes had abandoned his half clone. Lois was especially upset because Kon was Jon's half brother and she'd like to know about him.

Kara became even more upset when she learned about Kon's name, Supes claims naming Conner 'abomination' in Kryptonian wasn't on purpose. That didn't seem to help the man's case at all, as it was an insult to to name a Kryptonian child a name not thoroughly thought out. Clark had a bit of a break down and everyone became privileged to the information of Lex being the other half of Kon DNA.

It took some time to figure out but for now Kon-El is a resident at Wayne manor. It was a surreal experience explaining to Bruce that me and Kon were dating but he knew, of course he knew. You can't keep anything hidden for long from Batman.

Steph and Cass started dating at the start of the fall semester so Steph has been staying in her claimed room at the manor more often. That's part of the reason Steph has attended more Galas and events with us as of late, more than before. She claims it's because she gets to be with Cass but at this point I think it's because of the hors d'oeuvres. Steph has always loved the fancy finger foods served at those events.

So yes the Wayne house has been incredibly busy! Everything from introducing Damian to the public eye, forging the proper paper trail to prove that Jason was under witness protection, and on top of all of this chaos Selina has become a permanent stay at the manor after Bruce invited her to move in.

I'm currently out following a lead on a case Bruce gave to me. A series of disappearances of young girls all throughout Gotham, the only common thread between them is their ages are in ascending order. The first girl was 5 years old, the next was 6 years old and so on. Totaling eleven girls missing all from different backgrounds and areas of Gotham.

Each girl disappeared from their homes, all within a week of the last one disappearing. I've investigated every lead Commissioner Gordon has given Batman, the only reason Gordon thinks they're related is because of the consistency of the disappearances. And all of them vanish from their homes with no signs of forced entry.

The latest disappearance hit closer to home then I would've liked, one of mine and my siblings classmates. A 15 year old girl named Jillian, she's a quiet girl who I shared a few core classes with. It took three days for anyone to notice she was missing, everyone at school thought she was sick. Her guardian wasn't even in town and still isn't, hence me breaking into the apartment.

I slip open the window and crawl into a very small and baron living space. There's only a TV, couch and dining table in the living room, the kitchen looks empty also but I sweep through looking at everything. There isn't much of anything in this apartment to indicate someone living here let alone the house being broken into.

I walk slowly through the hall to the first door, opening it reveals a bathroom. Slightly more personal this time, there's soaps and a loofa sitting on a small shelf in the bathroom. An assortment of makeup, hair care and face care on the counter next to the sink. A toothbrush and paste sitting in a cup near the edge of the sink.

I close the bathroom and move to the next door to find what looks to be the bare bones of a master bedroom. There's only a bed, dresser and mirror in here. A layer of dust covers the room, a clear sign no one inhabits the room. If they do they haven't been here in a long time.

I open the door across the hall to reveal an actual lived in room. Before I can get a clearer picture of the room something darts between my legs quickly. Moving to follow I watch the shape push open the door across from the bathroom. I opened it to find a small laundry room and the small shape, an extremely fluffy black cat with a little purple collar & ball and dark yellow eyes staring longingly at me.

"Hey there friend, let me see what I can do for you yeah?" I turn to look around and find a note on the wall.

Stepping over to the paper it reads: 'Grace, if you're reading this it means something happened to me. Please just feed Queenie, her foods in the kitchen. One part wet and one part dry, make sure her pill is crushed and mixed in. Please just take care of Queenie for me...~ Jill'

"Okay this might be something, a lead possib-" I'm interrupted by a soft meow from behind me.

I grabbed the shallow ceramic bowl from the elevated table it was on. As I moved into the kitchen the cat, Queenie followed, she quickly moved to sit in front of a lower cabinet door and chirped softly.

I opened it to find a container with dry cat food, a half a shelf full of canned cat food, and attached the door of the cabinet; a little basket with a blue pill bottle. I follow the instructions and place the bowl back in the laundry room, Queenie goes straight away to eating.

I move back to my original reason for being here, I step into the inhabited room. The walls are covered in posters, pictures, shadow boxes with bugs, and art. Shelves line most of the walls filled with books, small sculptures, candles and other such knick knacks.

There's a shelf sitting in front of the only window, on it are various plants. There's another shelf, filled with all sorts of strange things; skulls of varying sizes and animals, crystals and rocks, a jar with what looks to be a preserved salamander-like creature.

A canopy bed covered in plushies of various animals & bugs and at the foot of it a dresser. On the left side of the bed is a small bedside table, a small picture frame sits on it next to a lamp and clock. To the right near the window is a desk covered in papers and books.

Moving closer the papers are drawing of a person, a woman but her features are hard to make out. One of the books is a journal that is opened, from what I can tell Jillian was still writing in it before she stopped.

"Hey Oracle? Can you patch me through to Batman... And Robin?" I ask as I pull out my small camera and begin taking pictures of the room.

"Give me one second Red." I move back to where I began and take a wide shot of the entire room.

"Red Robin, what is it?" I step over to the desk and take multiple pictures of the desk and the items on it.

"I've got what I think could be a lead and would like your help if you're not busy... I also need Robin's help with a... Furry friend, think you could come to me?" I step back and take pictures of the room from various angles getting every possible angle I can.

It takes Bruce and Damian about ten minutes to arrive at the same window I entered in. The younger boy looks a bit bored and disgruntled when first entering through the window. But that quickly changes when Queenie trots over to him and rubs up against his leg. He crouches down and begins softly petting the cat as I guild B towards Jillian's room, showing him the note first.

With careful hands he takes the note and places it in a plastic bag, ones we commonly use to store evidence in. We continue toward our destination when I spot something I hadn't before. It was a few things actually, just before Jillian's room there's a small amount of discoloration (most likely blood) on the floor close to the door. And caught on a nail that seems to be working its out is a scrap of fabric. Batman and I collect the evidence and take pictures.

While I'm closer to the floor I can see deep groves on the floor, I follow them towards the door and find more scratches. It looks like someone was holding onto the door frame and was forcefully removed, inside Jillian's room near where the claw marks start, underneath a shelf is Jillian's phone charm. It's a cluster of blue and purple beads of different shapes and sizes with different charms scattered all throughout. At the very end is a little black flocked cat holding a fish in its mouth.

As I move to pick up the charm it's heavier than it should be, as I pull more of the familiar case of Jillian's phone slid out from under the shelf. The phone case was covered in teals, pinks and oranges from different stickers and pieces of paper sealed behind the clear phone case. Like everything Jillian owned it was colorful and covered. I pick up the phone and see the screen is cracked, as I try to turn it on the screen lights up with a battery icon that has a small sliver of red in it.

I place the phone in a spare pouch on my hip before moving towards the desk. As I pass the bed post at the end of the bed closest to the window Batman points to something. I look down and see a large gash taken out of the wooden post, B squats down to get a closer look. He reaches between the dresser and end of the bed before standing up to reveal he's holding a knife.

It's a simple switch blade knife, a chip in the sharpened blade but fine none the less. Batman reaches out a hand and I place my small camera into his hand before I leave to comb over the desk and its contents.

All of the drawings are done on the same style of paper, with pencil and charcoal being the main medium but there are a few done in pen and one at the very bottom done in water colors. All of the drawings are of three different people; one of a woman with a scar on her face, a man with glasses, and a figure with androgynous features. I've seen Jillian drawing this figure before in class, when I asked she just called them 'The Lady'.

I'm mentally kicking myself for not asking her more. Jillian had been drawing the figure relentlessly over the span of the kidnappings and was getting more and more... Frantic feels like the right word. I shake myself out of my thoughts and sort the drawings into separate piles, one for each of the different muses. As I sort a paper slip from the scared woman's stack and drift to the ground, there's writing on the back of the drawings. Flipping over the drawing I'm currently holding I'm greeted with more text.

"This girl seems to be the lead you were looking for Red," Batman's naturally low timber fills the air. I nod before gathering the piles into folders, the thickest one being 'The Lady's' stack.

I hand the three folders to B and turn to the journal. At the top is a date and time scrawled in the top, I quickly flip through the previous pages to find much of the same for each one. I place the ribbon place holder to mark the half finished page, I close the journal and hand it back to B.

Opening the desk drawers I found a teal note book with pink flowers and black branches, in neat cursive hand writing on the bottom is the word 'Diary'. I hesitate to grab it, feeling extremely guilty and a bit perverted for rummaging through my classmate's desk.

"You don't have to continue this case, I know you went to school with the most recent girl." I turn to look at Batman as he speaks, with his cowl on it's hard to discern what he's thinking.

My fist ball up at my sides as I take a deep breath, holding it, then releasing it as I relax my shoulders and fists. Do I want to hand this case back to Bruce? No, not really. I wasn't friends with Jillian, no one really was. She's a bit of an odd ball, constantly wearing gloves and avoiding contact with people. She's quiet in class, constantly drawing... But the few times I've interacted with her she was kind, soft spoken.

"No, I want to continue. I just feel weird for going through her personal space... Do you think we could call one of the girls to come help?" I ask, fidgeting with my glove. A soft smile curls across Batman's face before reaching up and calling over Spoiler and Black Bat.

It takes the two girls less time than Batman and Robin to show. Once they arrive Batman gives me the rest of his evidence bags and calls Robin to inform him that they're leaving to head back to the cave. Robin appears holding a carrier cage with a small grocery sack with what I can only assume is the cat's food and medicine. B doesn't say anything but we can all feel the questioning look.

"No one is here to take care of Queenie Father. And from what Red Robin has informed me of the guardian of Queenie's owner no one will be coming back for her. I will take on the burden of caring for Queenie while her owner is gone, that is my responsibility as Robin. To help those in trouble," Robin's speech doesn't leave much room for argument. We all watch as an eyebrow lifts under Batman's cowl before he makes a low grumble and turns towards the window to step out.

Robin turns back towards us beaming before scampering towards the window, he gingerly places the carrier with the cat outside of the window onto the fire escape before climbing out himself with the bag. Batman takes the bag from Robin before the two descend down the fire escape. A few minutes later the sound of the Batmobile starting can be heard. I show Black Bat and Spoiler to the room, the two girls enter looking around curiously.

"She's got amazing vibes going on in this room," Black Bat nods her head in agreement with Spoilers statement, I clear my throat to catch their attention.

"I need you two to go through her drawers, please... I feel like a pervert doing it but we've got to find anything that could help me with this case. Spoiler if you could go through her desk and Black Bat if you could go through her closet, you both know what B considers useful for investigations," I quickly blurt out what I need their help with before I crouch back down near the door trying to see if I can figure out how Jillian's phone got underneath the shelf.

I breathe a sigh of relief as both girls move to their respective area in the room. It takes a little over an hour of them looking through different drawers in the room while I scoured the room and hallway. I found more scratch marks on the laundry room door and on the floor in the living room. There was more blood on the floor and I noticed that a large carpet was missing from the living room judging by the clear discoloration in the living room.

I finished taking the necessary pictures of the evidence before I stood up to greet the two girls both have a bag with something inside. I collect them both and place them into the small messenger bag I have slung over my shoulder.

"What do you've got RR?" Spoiler asks as she rocks back and forth on her heels, Black Bat nods in agreement humming softly as she does.

"Okay, so far not much I don't even know what her journals and drawing will tell me. But Jillian put up a fight, there was an altercation in her room that caused the cut in the bed post as well as the loss of the switch blade," I say as I walk towards Jillian's room.

"Somehow in the altercation Jillian's phone slid under the shelf next to the door. Jillian was conscious when she was dragged out, indicated by the scratch marks on the door frame, the floors and the laundry room door." I point out the different areas to the other two as we walk back into the living room.

"They dragged her into the living room before knocking her unconscious, they then took the carpet and wrapped her in it. There were no signs of forced entry anywhere so they had to be let in." I step up to the front door and open it. I step into the hall and spot a small camera at the end of the hall above the elevator doors. I was expecting to step out into the hall to get a clear look at the various entry points, but there was a note stuck to the wall next to the door that caused me to pause.

The note read: 'Jillian sweetie, I let the bug exterminators your sister hired into your apartment. They left with your carpet all rolled up, said they had to take it back to their shop. I do hope no one else has to deal with whatever pest you've got. Hope to see you soon, Ms. Sullivan'

"You're good," Spoiler says after whisting, I mumbled a response about not expecting this and what my plan actually was. I take a quick picture before taking the note and closing the door. I slip the paper into a protective sleeve like we have been doing all night before tapping my com link to speak with Oracle.

"Hey O, can you or our friend at the cave get us the camera footage of the building we're currently in? And if there's any clear street footage, that as well. I need the footage from three days ago," I ask as I maneuver out of the window, stepping aside to let the others out before closing it.

"Sure thing, everything I find will be sent over to J and the Bat-Computer. You calling it for patrol tonight?" I confirm Barbara's question before quickly making my way via grapple back to the cave.

It takes me some time to return to the cave but I'm no less focused on my task at hand. Once inside the cave I quickly found an empty area and meticulously laid out all the evidence that we gathered. Jason stands up from the computer and stands beside me. I tap away at the small computer system on my wrist and start printing out the pictures me and B took while at the apartment. Jason moves to collect the pictures before I can even speak a word. I thank him when he sets them down next to me.

"Babs is getting everything she can from the footage but I'm here to help you with whatever you need, Little Bird." Jason places his hands into his pockets as I finish setting out everything. Jason is smart, we all are, and having an extra set of eyes on this case would be helpful.

"I'm going to get out of my suit, shower and make myself something to drink... If you could get this charging and start on trying to open it that would be appreciated, Jay," I say as I hand Jason Jillian's phone, he quickly slips on a pair of gloves before grabbing the phone. I remove my gauntlets and the main armor pieces of my suit, leaving me in a tank top and my black padded tights.

I walk towards the exit that leads upstairs to the manor, as soon as the grandfather clock moves out of the way I'm greeted by Kon. He's standing in a simple black shirt and is wearing baggy blue gym shorts with socks on. I smile at him as I move to walk towards the stairs leading upstairs. Kon followed me the whole time, holding my hand as we went.

Once in my own room I strip down to my boxer. I move towards my bathroom entering the small room and starting a hot shower, while waiting for the water to heat i turn towards the mirror. I breathe in deeply before peeling away my mask, having to go slowly as to not rip out the few eyebrow hairs stuck in the spirit gum. I breathe a sigh of relief once my mask is off and I quickly get into the hot shower after removing the last layer.

I groan when the hot water cascades over my sore body, I stand there for a bit with my full body under the stream of water. I let my eyes fall close as I focus on the feeling of my muscles relaxing. There's the faint sound of the bathroom door opening then closing followed by a slight shuffle of fabrics and the sound of Kon quietly humming to himself.

"Kon?" My mouth moves before I can really think. I can hear Kon hum in response, a quiet acknowledgement that he heard me.

"Would you... Come join me please?" I don't get a verbal response but I do hear the sounds of fabric moving and the glass door to the shower open. There's the delicate touch of Kon's hands on my back.

This isn't the first time I've asked Kon to join me in the shower, it won't be the last either. He starts our normal routine immediately, one hand gently rubbing circles into my lower back. The other gently squeezes my hip as it moves up and down. I open my eyes and meet his eyes, my breath catches as I get lost in the midnight blue. A ring of gold always surrounds his pupils even when they dilate, I think it's a Kryptonian thing... I don't know for sure I don't make a habit of staring deeply into others' eyes.

"You have such pretty blue eyes Tim, they're like clouds," Kon whispers to me, I can't help the small smile that spreads across my face. I bring my arms up and wrap them around Kon's neck, the contrast between my pale skin and his warm bronze always pulls at something in my chest.

I lean up and gently kiss Kon, our lips falling into a steady rhythm even as he steps closer to me. We stay like that for a bit my hands running over his shoulders and up into his curly black hair. His hands glide across my hips and up my back, gently working out any tension still there. Eventually though I have to pull away slightly taking in deep breaths to help soothe the ache in my chest. Kon steps away for a moment, reaching for my shampoo.

I turn my back to him and tilt my head back slightly so my longer hair falls back. I usually keep my hair at about chin to middle neck length but it's getting to the point that I need a hair cut soon. I feel warm hands curl into hair and begin to massage my scalp. I feel my shoulders slump and all remaining tension ease out of my body as Kon pampers me.

"Thank you babe, you don't have to do this you know?" I ask letting my eyes slip close and my head tilt down as Kon's hands move lower on my scalp.

"Mhm, I know but I like too. I like watching all the tension leave you because of my doing. It makes me feel good," He says as I feel the tinge of Kon's TTK reaching out to caress me, I hum at the slight static feeling washing over me.

I feel Kon step forward until his chest is flush against my back, with gentle hands Kon guides my head to be fully under the spray of the shower. He runs his hands through my hair before guiding me back to where I was before, then he comb his fingers through as he conditions my hair. I let out a slight squeak when I feel Kon shifting us so he's under the spray and I'm not. If it weren't for the fact that Kon's body constantly radiates heat I think I'd be shivering.

I feel a wash cloth begin to run over my body as both of Kon's hands leave me. I let my head fall back against his chest as he rinses his own hair. Once he's done one of his hand wraps around my waist and the other rinses the conditioner from my hair. I turn myself around and bury my face in Kon's neck, finding comfort in the smell on Kon's skin. He smells like warmth; sunlight, a strange citrus note to him, and like rain.

I'm being moved again as Kon backs up so I'm in the stream of water. The rag is gently pushed into my hand as Kon mumbles about washing my sensitive bits. I look up and flash a wolfish grin at Kon as he blushes, I let the smile loose its edge as I finish cleaning myself. I deposit the rag onto a hook to dry before dragging Kon back into a hug as I bury my face back into Kon's neck.

We stay like that for a few more minutes before Kon uses his TTK to turn off the water. We both get dried off and I walk into my room to change into comfortable clothes while Kon finishes his curly hair routine, as well as cleaning all of his piercings and replacing some with fresh jewelry. He's currently wearing all black and silver jewelry that makes his freckles stand out gorgeously.

I get dressed, eat something light while waiting for water to boil and make myself and Jason a cup of coffee that is poured into cups with lids. I move back down to the cave, Kon hovering behind me the whole time following. I quickly moved towards the table where Jason was currently sitting and handed him the lidded cup of coffee.

"Thanks Timmers, I've got the phone charging and Oracle is running through a script to get past the phone password, Jason says gesturing towards the colorful device sitting next to him.

"Thank you for your help, I'm going to start reading through everything and see what I can find. I'm going to set everything I've read through to the side, if you're feeling up to being my second set of eyes that would be appreciated Jay," I say as I pick up the folder of drawings with the scared woman. Jason nods and sips his coffee while he chats with Kon, I take that as my que to start.

Next

[louff4tw]

Younger Bruce Wayne/Batman Headcannons

- He CAN cook. It’s weird to me people are like “he can burn water” Alfred raised him. I Headcannon he taught him and then when he trained he learned how to cook restaurant quality in case he needs to go undercover. He’s not Alfred level but he can cook

- He was a angry teen. The trauma messed with his head and he fought with Alfred a lot. Alfred thought about leaving a few times at the worst of the fighting but cared to much about the child he’s known since birth.

- Bruce adored him growing up. After he became his caretaker it was never discussed what would happen after Bruce turned 18. And part of what triggered the fights was that he was afraid Alfred was gonna leave when he turned 18.

- He left the day before he turned 18. He may give several excuses of why but it was in case Alfred left. He couldn’t face it if he did. The relief he felt when he realized Alfred was staying made him want to cry.

- Until 13 whenever he had a nightmare he would sit outside the floor next to the door to Alfred’s room. It helped to hear him. If Alfred spotted him he would be incredibly embarrassed. Alfred would let him join him in bed (Not in a weird way. Begone you creepy fucks)

- After 13 he decided he was a big boy and instead would stand at the closed door. Hear him snore and go back to bed. He continues this to his day with everyone who is staying the night.

- Autistic. Also he used to follow Alfred around stating different facts. He loves to stim by using a tire swing his dad put up when he was born. Spinning really helps him. Wasn’t diagnosed till after Tim was diagnosed and Stephanie called them autism twins. He was confused and she had to point out all the things in him she’s seen. Alfred didn’t even think of it. The rich don’t usually get diagnosed. After being diagnosed and with the trauma his kids had a better time understanding his communication or lack there off. Poor Alfred felt so bad when he realized so many issues in Bruce’s childhood would not have been a issue.

- The different issues he had were big crowds being overstimulating. The seams in his suits. The suits we’re claustrophobic and felt like they were choking him. Plus the texture of the suits were horrendous. So much velvet back then. He hated being touched and people wouldn’t stop it. (Hand in hair. Shoulders or upper back. Or old laddies pinching cheeks). Had trouble talking to his peers. Weirdly the only one he could hold a Conversation with was Lex and sorta Oliver. But he didn’t like Lex and Oliver was annoying. He would talk about his special Interest and others would get annoyed. Sometimes only felt like Alfred and some elderly scholars understood him.

- Massive science nerd and loves Sci Fi’s and mysteries. Loves Star Trek alongside Grey Ghost.

- Is pansexual. But has never officially come out until Tim came out and was nervous

- Would sneak out in disguise. He also knew how to skateboard. Would hang out with a bad group. Drank and did pot when he was 16 but stoped when a friend was killed. This helped push him towards being Batman.

- They didn’t really do holidays after his parents died. The main tree didn’t get put up till Dick came around. Alfred would put up a smaller one in one of the lounges.

- Used to carry around a Sony Walkman and listen to albums. Really big into all kinds of music. Would sometimes stare into the abyss as he listened. He eventually gave the Walkman to one of his kids. They pass it around to whoever wants to use it. Currently with Cass.

- He took Karate for years and already was a black belt by the time he left. He also trained in fencing. He would always do things that tried to push his limits and would frequently hurt himself to the point cps was called. Of course they didn’t do anything but it frightened Alfred as Bruce hid these injuries from him.

- Was not rare for him to fall asleep next to his parents Grave and Alfred had to carry him in. He stopped when he was 15. When Jason died he started it up again. While Jason wasn’t buried on the manor cemetery he had a stone. Alfred had to call Dick to help get him inside. He passed out from exhaustion and wouldn’t wake.

- Following the one comic. He did try to kill himself when he was a preteen with his Fathers razor. Alfred found him and called Leslie. Only time she saw Alfred cry. He begged her “please save my boy! Please” this night haunts them both. He spent a week in Arkham. It didn’t help really. They kept it hush hush and used a fake name. Matches Malone. Bruce Still uses this name for undercover. Alfred wouldn’t leave him alone for months. Made him sleep in his room and Alfred sat outside the open door of the bathroom for showers and baths (facing away you sick fucks)

- After his parents death he never really thought he would ever have a family. Or feel happy again. He was so so wrong.

[bluejaysandblackbats]

Catch and Release

Fandom: DC Comics, Batfam

Summary: AU where Jason doesn't die in the explosion and he and Tim end up attending the same high school months later.

Chapters: 4/?

Characters: Jason Todd, Bruce Wayne, Alfred Pennyworth, Tim Drake, Dick Grayson, Barbara Gordon, Sebastian Ives, Jack Drake, Janet Drake

Relationships: TBA

Additional Tag: Jason Todd Lives, Jason Todd-centric, POV Jason Todd, POV First Person, Tim Drake Has Issues, Tim Drake Has Issues, Tim Drake is Not Robin, Jason Todd is Not Robin (Anymore), Bruce Wayne Needs a Hug, Alfred Pennyworth is the Best, Alfred Pennyworth Knows, Stalker Tim Drake, Jason Todd Has Chronic Pain, Jason Todd Has PTSD, Angst with a Happy Ending, Unlikely Friends, Injury Recovery, Emotional Baggage, Rage, Bruce Wayne is Bad at Communicating

Chapter Four: Looking Glasses

My glasses weren't ready for my Wednesday appointment, but they were done the Friday after my second week of school. So, I took a cab to the optometrist's and then the pizza parlor, where I ran into Tim. He was with his friends, so I thought he wouldn't notice me. "One meat lover's pizza with thin garlic butter crust," I ordered. I waited in the corner, drinking out of the two-liter soda I bought to drown my misery. I had a crappy week at school and didn't want to speak to talk to anyone. The smell of pizza usually left me in a better mood. Besides, I liked being away from the house and the family. I ate the fries they gave me for dining in and watched people standing at the street corner.

"Order for Christopher!" the man at the counter called. I finished my fries, threw the two-liter in my bag, and grabbed my crutches. When I got to the counter, I realized I couldn't carry my pizza and use my crutches. Tim got up and offered to help. I was mortified. I hid my name and everything to avoid speaking to him, only to need his help.

"Here, listen, my driver's on his way. He can drop you off if you want, and I'll help you to your-."

"I don't wanna be any trouble," I interrupted. I said it harshly without meaning to, but I don't think Tim cared. He'd been following me around campus all day, and we just so happened to meet at the pizza place. It would've felt like he was stalking me had he not gotten there first. "I should've thought-."

"No, it's okay. It's really no trouble. I insist," Tim replied.

There was no polite way to turn him down, and his driver just pulled up out front. "I'll split this pie with you if you don't take me home."

Tim grinned a half-smile. "Alright. Come on, I've got your pizza," Tim reassured me. He carried my pizza to the car, and I followed him out.

Once we got in the car, I asked the question I'd had since the first day of school. "Are you watching me? At school, I mean?" I asked.

"I've been-. I'm curious. People talk, and-. Well, you never let anybody close enough to learn anything about you," Tim replied. I knit my brows with great effort.

"What do you wanna know, Tim?" I asked.

"Jason, what kind of accident was it?" Tim questioned.

"Explosion... Gas leak explosion. I don't like to talk about it," I lied. Honestly, I was dying to talk about it. I was sick of holding it all inside myself, but I couldn't afford to let anyone in my head. Especially not some freshman I'd known for less than a week. Tim gave me my pizza box and the okay to eat in the car. I set the box between us and draped an open napkin over my lap. I let Tim eat, but he wasn't hungry. I ate in silence.

It'd been a while since I'd had pizza. I think it was my birthday the last time. I was in the hospital then. Bruce wanted to cheer me up, but all I could think about was my-. I could only think about Sheila. I tried to take the brunt of the blast, but I wasn't big enough. She impaled her skull on a rock anyway. So, I lay trapped between the debris and her lifeless body for what felt like forever. I relived that moment constantly. Lately, I only think about it when I feel trapped. "Jason?" Tim whispered as he touched my arm. It shook me out of a trance. "You alright? You were gone for a while... We're at my house now."

"Oh, we're here?" I mumbled as if I'd been asleep. I slipped my backpack on, and Tim helped me carry my pizza box inside. His house was mostly empty, save for a maid or nanny working on the premises. He set the box on the coffee table and turned the tv on.

I took my homework out of my bag and sat it upright on the floor. "You're gonna do your homework?" Tim asked. I nodded and put on my glasses.

"Yeah, that's what I typically do when I get a minute to sit down," I half-joked. Tim shrugged and flipped through the channels.

"Would it be distracting if I asked you a few questions?" Tim asked. I shook my head. "Jason, when you were thirteen, you went on a short trip to Hollywood over the spring break, right?" The question was weird, but I nodded.

"Yeah, I was visiting a friend. He invited me out to see the movie his Aunt worked on," I answered. That was a half-truth.

"Did you get to see Robin while you were there?" Tim asked.

I laughed it off. "Robin lived in Gotham... But no one's seen much of him lately," I replied. Tim nodded seriously and turned toward the tv.

"He was in Los Angeles that week," Tim replied, "Weird coincidence, huh?"

"What are you getting at, Tim?" I asked.

"Nothing, I'm just a big fan of Robin. I always ask," Tim whispered. I took a deep breath. "I'm coming on too strong, huh?

"A little," I replied as I opened my history book and filled out my worksheet. It took me an hour to finish my homework before I asked Tim to call me a cab.

Tim seemed sad at first, but he called the cab anyway. When the cab got there, he lingered out front with me. "Hey, um-."

"Thanks for everything, Tim. Can we do this again?" I asked. Tim grinned. I didn't want to admit it, but it was the first time I'd felt normal since the accident. I didn't want to let that feeling go. I opened the door and waved at Tim before heading home.

As soon as I got home, Bruce came out of the manor fuming. He waited until I reached the front door to start in on me. "Where the hell have you been?" Bruce asked, whispering through clenched teeth.

"I got my glasses, ate, and did my homework... How are you?" I asked.

"I was worried-. Did you ask me how I was?" Bruce questioned. I nodded. I never asked him how he was. I think my sincerity shocked him. I offered an awkward smile. "I'm alright... How are you?"

"I'm good... I think-. Yeah, I'm good," I smiled. Bruce let me in, and I took the stairlift without argument. I didn't even have to argue with him. I chose peace and peace felt... Kinda nice.

[stealingyourbones]

Bruce isn't the best parent, but a chunk of the issue is that he's an only child. Should he stop Jason and Dick from throwing Damian back and forth like a human ball? Is Tim threatening to bite Cass an issue? Are those death threats serious or not? The poor man is an only child trying to run herd on at least a half dozen feral siblings. He exists in a state of constant confusion.

I.

This isn’t to be mean, but that is simply not the case.

I keep getting bad parent bruce takes and it sucks because all of them aren’t even proper reasoning for his character.

I’m just using you as an example, but hear me out.

Bruce is an extremely smart person, Homie has watched movies and read books, he can learn from situations around him that things are sibling things. Sure, he was excluded as a kid, but that isn’t nearly the main issue why he isn’t the best parent.

homie has so much shit wrong with him, he’s emotionally just not there, he keeps himself stuck in a perpetual state of grief and mourning for his parents of a thing that happened when he was a child, he has been trained by assassins and has experienced loss and pain to an insane extent, he has such an insane extent of paranoia and trust issues that it affects his daily life, is definitely autistic, and has issues with social cues.

I’m trying to properly articulate just why that’s not the case but my brain isn’t working with me so I’m handing this over to my twin @bonebrokebuddy who is far more articulate than me.

———

Hi, it's Billy, Bones's twin writing because Bones had a hard time putting this into words and I'm more of a canon nitpick than her.

Uh- have you ever. And I mean even once, met an only child.

I promise, if you read even a singular comic, you could tell this take is incredibly out of character.

Bruce isn’t a good parent. He’s also not a bad parent. He loves his kids. He literally could not stop them from pulling dumb shit if they tried and putting themselves into danger.

Bruce is the worlds greatest detective. He knows how to spot and detect emotions and trouble in his kids. He’s The Worlds Greatest Detective.

His issue with being a parent likely comes from having Alfred as a father figure. Imagine having a dad that you can fire at any time, you pay so they can stay with you, and can just leave at any moment if they don’t approve of the person they work for. That will severely fuck up a kid.

His issue isn’t that he’s an only child, it’s that it’s every Robin’s god given right to go against and defy Batman’s orders whenever possible because kids are viscous little buggers who don’t like being told “you can’t do that” even if it’s for their own health, they’ll do it anyway.

After you’ve taught your kids how to exist in deadly situations, they think they’re invincible when it’s because Bruce is doing all he fucking can to make sure his kids don’t get hurt. If they feel like they can make the world a better place, they’ll do it, regardless of the risk because they’re inherently self sacrificing and good people.

Bruce’s issue with parenting is due to his relationship with his kids. Again, it isn’t that he’s an only child, it’s that the kids he adopted are their own people and they are even more stubborn and bad at communication as him.

Even more so, it’s due to the dang narrative.

Conflict between Bruce and his kids that cause them to separate has been the backstory for plenty of solo batkid runs to endure Batman isn’t as involved or the main focus of the run.

Narrative tension is literally the cause of all the bad parent decisions for Bruce, because conflict drives narrative or miscommunications cause the story to lengthen and complicate itself

it’s not as easy as “Bruce is bad dad” because he’s Not. Bruce is good with kids! He has a pouch in his utility belt specifically with suckers for kids!

But Bruce isn't a great world star dad either. He definitely inherited his ability to communicate with people outside crisis situations largely from trainers around the world and his arms-length-distance-at-all-times distance relationship with the butler who raised him.

Despite him being good with kids, his kids have lives of their own with morals and opinions of their own that conflict and clash constantly. It’s not a simple case of “Bruce is a bad dad.”

It’s a case of “everyone has slightly different opinions and approaches to situations so occasionally conflict happens when they clash or interfere with each other” because it’s a comic that tells a story!

Anyways, my recommendation? Pick up a comic. And preferably? Read it. Or watch BTAS if it’s more accessible to you. either works. This opinion isn't your fault most likely, just the quality of the DC fan-content you've been consuming that are incredibly removed from the comics. If you want, DM me at @bonebrokebuddy and I can send you some good quality DC fics with in-character Bruce.

————

Bones here again,

That basically sums up the exact stuff I couldn’t properly describe. I was using you more as an example because I have dozens of bad parent bruce takes in my inbox and I am 90% sure that the cause of them is that they simply haven’t read anything about the character.

Read a comic, read some strictly DC fanfiction, watch some of the many many TV shows and animated movies, there are even motion comics free online to watch that have voice acting and everything!

Being an only child doesn’t make you a bad father.

[comatose--overdose]

After getting into an argument with the family, Jason gets magically turned into a cat while on patrol. He retains his human mind but recognizes a golden opportunity when he sees one and so he pretends that he didn't.

He proceeds to knock every single item off of every single shelf in the bat cave and Bruce's office.

He makes Tim watch as he pushes his favorite mug off the table

He's huge and he's FLUFFY. Solid black except for a white spot in the middle of his forehead between his ears and at the very tip of his tail. Big boy, weighs like 20 lbs and it's all muscle.

"This isn't a house cat, it's a fucking long-haired mini-panther" -Tim, before Jason promptly starts chewing on his shoelaces and unties them so he trips.

There are hairballs in most of Bruce's shoes, and even one on Dick's favorite pair too.

He pees on Tim's bed.

Any time anyone tries to pet him he immediately sticks his ass in their face

He considers catching the tiny gray mouse that's been driving Alfred insane for the last two weeks but he can't bring himself to do it because it turns out the mouse is actually very sweet. Her name is Millie, and she wishes Gotham wasn't so cold. But the Manor is warm and there's so much to eat, she's never had a home this wonderful before. Jason can relate. He carefully sets off all the mouse traps hidden around so they can't hurt her. Alfred just stares when he goes into the pantry only to see his grandchild, as a cat, curled up napping with a mouse. Jason looks up and actually glares at him. Unbelievable.

She shows him all the little nooks and crannies and pathways that are much too small for humans. Jason now knows the Manor better than even Alfred.

(when he's human again, Jason carefully catches Millie, who seems to still recognize him, and keeps her safe and happy with a big warm habitat and lots of food. Jason always remembers who his friends are, even if they can't communicate anymore)

He repeatedly steals meat from Bruce, Stephanie, and Duke. He'll wait until they aren't looking and then drag it off their plate and trot off to enjoy his pilfered meal (sometimes he shares with Cat Alfred or Millie). Dick just gives him some of his because honestly, Jason's a little shit but he's never been more adorable and he's still his little brother. Big Birb feeds the little wings.

They start making him his own plate of meat because one, they got tired of theirs being stolen (not that that stopped) and two: they only had to make the mistake of offering him regular cat food once to know to never try it again

(Bruce had to spend a fortune on new furniture and curtains AND Tim needed stitches from all the biting, because of course he was the one who tried to feed him cat food.

"What?! He's a cat! I thought he'd like it!"

It nearly broke his cover but fuck that, he was not eating that shit. Baby bird gon' learn today.)

He finally spends some time bonding with Jarro

Every time someone uses a laptop or the batcomputer he lays all over the keyboard and rolls around, refusing to move.

Bruce is just.... Covered in scratches. Jason swipes at his ankles every time he walks by, Bruce tries to pet him and he latches on with all four paws and teeth. He'll deliberately lay traps the old man can't resist, rolling over to show his belly and Bruce falls for it every time. Weak.

Just open the goddamn door and let him into the garden, please, he is NOT gonna shit in a box. He'll shit in your shoes first, Steph.

It turns out Alfred the Cat is a wonderful conversationalist. He is also friends with Millie and has been trying to bring her to Damian's attention for a while now so he can protect her.

(Jason tells Damian this later, who then gives Cat Alfred ALL the scritches and offers to help Jason look after Millie if he ever has to be away for an extended period of time)

Titus is a good boy who doesn't give him any trouble, but for the time being, he tries (and often fails) to avoid Ace. Not because he's hostile, but because he still recognizes him as Jason and COVERS him in spit. He will not stop licking him. Alfred has to give him a bath because Ace licks him after getting into some peanut butter and honestly Jason has never been more disgusted in his life because it's EVERYWHERE but Cats Don't Like Water so he takes two Ls back-to-back there. The yowling made everyone worried he was dying and they all came running, but he was just being Dramatic™️

(He can't be mad at Ace tho, he knows he's always been Ace's favorite. Ace is a sweet boi)

Every time he breaks something, Tim threatens to have him neutered.

"The price of the next mug is gonna be your balls you furry little asshole."

He pees in Tim's bed again.

The only ones he doesn't terrorize are Alfred, out of respect (mouse protection aside), Cass, because She Somehow Knows and is just letting him have his fun without spoiling it, and Damian, because resisting his Disney Princess bullshit is honestly the most likely thing to immediately give the game away to everyone else. Plus, Dami may be a brat but he's not gonna scratch a kid on purpose and besides, he's honestly never been nicer to Jason. Figures he has to have fur and four legs for the Demon to show some affection.

Roy catches wind of what's happening because Dick's got a big mouth when it comes to things like this and so he shows up to see it for himself and everyone is LIVID when he's the only one (other than the aforementioned three) allowed to pet Jason and rub his belly without getting clawed. Boyfriend privileges, bitches.

As soon as Jason and Roy are alone for a few minutes, Jay starts tapping out Morse code and lets him in on the act so he can help him cause chaos and jealousy.

Oh he just loooves Roy, just loves laying in his lap and rubbing their faces together and flopping over against his side, even licks him on the cheek. Look how cute he is guys, just a cuddly little cat, don't you just wanna hold him and squeeze him and give him scritches? But you can't!! But Roy can.

Dick and Bruce are fuming. Tim is starting to figure out they're being conned but he can't prove it, goddammit.

Roy's just enjoying the cuddles and snuggles. Jason isn't usually this affectionate when other people are around. Jay may be a cat right now, but Roy will take what he can get.

He will chase the laser light. For appearances. Only... Only for appearances... Must...catch...fairy....

Catnip is the best damn thing in the world, holy SHIT.

There's nothing Zatanna or Constantine can do, the spell just has to wear off, but he gets two weeks of (mostly) consequence free mischief in the meantime.

[More Cat!Jason posts here]

[hintofelation99]

The all had multiple expulsion threats and meetings at school no question. And yet Bruce somehow is voted the best parent at the PTA.

Bruce is the best soccer dad. Also they all get expulsion threats for different reasons.

Dick

Fighting -> He does get into a few fights at first, but after becoming Robin he stops getting into fights.

'Being Disruptive' ->Then he starts to get in trouble for not paying attention, talking in class, constant fidgetting. For the most part it's from teachers who don't even try to understand or accommodate kids with ADHD. Like he's a good kid, he's not trying to be 'disruptive' or 'rude', he just struggles with ADHD and needs teachers who are understanding of that.

Reckless Behavior -> There are several teachers who are amazing and work with his ADHD rather than against it, but even with them he gets in trouble a few times because of 'reckless behavior' (jumping from high places, climbing things that shouldn't be climbed, etc). These teachers aren't rude about it or critical, they're literally just concerned for his safety and that's why they call Bruce.

Jason

Fighting -> He sometimes gets into fights with rich pretentious kids who try to bully him. They quickly learn not to fuck with him.

Reading During Class -> This is usually only done in classes where he doesn't like the teacher —which is pretty common, he likes learning but sometimes he doesn't like school because the teachers annoy him, if he likes the teacher he's a wonderful student, if he doesn't like them... well, he can be a handful— or where he's so far ahead that he gets bored.

Cheating -> Jason has gotten accused of cheating several times, mostly because some people think a kid from crime alley can't get straight A's without cheating.

Cass

'Being Disrespectful' -> There has been at least one teacher who considers Cass' selective mutism to be a form of disrespect.

Physically Attacking Another Student -> One time this guy kept harrassing a classmate of Cass' the person was clearly uncomfortable, so when the guy tried to grope them Cass flipped him.

Ditching Class -> She has at least once just walked out of class after a teacher annoyed her. No comment, no response, no explanation, just left.

Tim

Ditching Class -> He has been known to skip class on occasion. Which honestly, understandable.

Sleeping During Class -> Self explanatory tbh.

Cheating -> He kept getting 100% on tests, even after constantly sleeping during class, so the teachers assumed he was cheating.

Duke

Fighting -> After his parent's went insane he was pretty depressed and angry. Ended up getting in a few fights.

Cheating -> Much like Jason some teachers also thought Duke shouldn't be able to do well in school. So, when he did exceedingly well they assumed he cheated.

Ditching Class -> This mostly happened right after the stuff with his parents, but he still occasionally skips, usually he ends up going to the library.

Damian

Insulting Teachers and Classmates -> Self explanatory.

Physically Assualting a Student -> Usually he's good about not trying to murder others, but he did attack one or two students after they made a racist remark.

Having a Rude Tone -> This got thrown out pretty quickly but there was a teacher who reported him based solely on the tone of his voice.

Everytime one of his kids gets in trouble Bruce comes in and listens to all available perspectives. If they actually did something wrong then Bruce is fine with them facing consequences. But if they didn't actually do something, or it's something he believes they shouldn't be punished for then he will fight it. His most well known fights with the school were over:

Their response to Dick's ADHD

Teachers accusing Duke, Tim, and Jason of cheating without evidence

The teachers response to Cass' selective mutism

The racist remarks made about Damian

As a PTA member he focuses a lot on mental health education, diversity, and funding the arts. He and Alfred tend to tag team events. Alfred handles everything baking always, but other than that they split responsibilites based on Bruce's schedule. Bruce likes to be as present as possible but sometimes he's just too busy, so when that's the case Alfred steps in.

With each kid Bruce learned different areas where the school was lacking, where he could help improve. First was with Dick, he learned that the teachers didn't have the training or resources to give Dick the support needed. None of them knew how to handle ADHD and at first it resulted in poor grades and 'behavioral problems'. To fix this Bruce set up a fund to send teachers to extra training seminars on common learning disabilities and mental health issues, these covered a wide range that not only helped Dick, but also other students who had similar needs. Bruce also helped planned a yearly fundraising event that would make sure the fund was sustainable and not relient on him.

With Jason he focused on revamping the bookfair, there were a lot of other projects he could/wanted/did do, but the bookfair meant the most to Jason so it meant the most to Bruce. He turned the bookfair into a yearly two week long event where authors came to speak, writing work shops were held, and books were donated (ofc books were also sold). Basically he turned it from a bookfair to a bookcon.

For Cass his efforts in getting the teachers the training needed to help students with disabilities was doubled, this time he focused on communicative and sensory disabilities. Like selective mutism, deafness, blindness, etc. His biggest goal was making sure all teachers took at least one sign language course and encouraging them to take more with bonuses and pay raises. Eventually this monetary reward system extending to other out of work classes that could prove beneficial to students.

In a lot of ways Bruce felt like he failed Tim, this was a kid who was his neighbor for years and who eventually became his Robin. Yet it still took him much too long to realize how neglectful Tim's parents were. It really made him question a lot of things, mainly how much child abuse went unnoticed. He started a campaign to raise awareness on types of abuse and the signs to look for. It focused on all forms of abuse, not just neglect. In a way it was therapeutic, not only did it help kids like Tim, but it also helped kids like Jason who faced physical abuse. It ended up begin a popular program that expanded to other schools in the area.

Duke made Bruce think of problems closer to home, namely how Rogue attacks affected children. So for Duke, Bruce worked on creating a support network for children who were victims or were close to victims of Rogue attacks/organized crime in Gotham. Outside of the support network for Rogue victims Bruce also worked with the PTA to schedule several writing competitions, Dick often places in the top three and Bruce is always insanely proud of this.

For Damian Bruce really focused on the arts. He and the PTA started doing art shows every quarter and having students help with school beautification/mural making on campus. These programs helped Damian bond with peers and encouraged him to participate in after school activities. Dick also helped with these programs and expanded them into the community, specifically he worked combining art/beautification programs with fundraising for animal shelters.

[theredheaded-stuff]

Batfam on a mission and being attacked by LOA assassins and them taking them all out except they notice Dami not trying to take out his opponent but merely playing with them (not toying with but actually having fun sparring sort of fun). The Batfam intervene and Damian quickly defends them before revealing their identity as his twin sister, Athanasia. Damian manages to convince Athanasia to come back to the cave with them, on the ride back although they are sitting quietly the Batfam can easily tell the twin are, as they assume, communicating through twin telepathy.

How does the Batfam react to Damian revealing he has a twin sister born of both Bruce and Talia?

How does the Batfam react to Damian and Athanasia’s twin telepathy?

Damian was having fun "fighting" Athanasia, like they used to do when they were kids, Batfamily is very confused.

Jason didn't seem surprised, after all he's lived with both of them since they were babies (at least before coming to Gotham) he has fond memories of telling the story to the twins and they both talk about the story with each other.

Bruce looked at Damian in a questioning way, no one can say what feelings he was feeling at that moment, Athanasia decided to take a step forward and make it clear that she didn't go before because she didn't want/ was having some trouble since she feel a little guilty with let Mara "alone"

Dick smiled at both twins, it was easy to see the way they protected each other and would do anything for the other's well being, he was proud that Damian and Athanasia have another youngest in the family doesn't sound so bad

Barbara as soon as Athanasia got more comfortable started braiding the girl's hair, that was fun for both of them, Barbara used to play with Cass' hair so the feeling was good, While Athanasia remembered when Damian made a point of learning to braid hair simply to "make her hair beautiful".

Stephanie and Athanasia? Bond through Athanasia talking about funny or embarrassing happenings from Damian and her childhood, Damian face is red? Yes but is happy with the situation.

Duke and Alfred are preparing some extra food while asking if Athanasia has any restrictions or favorite foods, it turns out that Athanasia has some very different tastes than Damian.

While Damian doesn't like sweets that much and prefers to eat them with cinnamon if he does, Athanasia loves sweets and would totally eat any sweet with strawberry syrup.

Tim and Athanasia prove to be both coffee lovers, Tim is happy that someone "is like him" Bruce is worried about someone else getting addicted to coffee in the house, Damian prefers tea.

Cass and Athanasia started practicing dance moves together, apparently both are unbeatable with classical ballet! Barbara's eyes are shining with pride, Barbara helped make the bun in both hair.

Both Twins Love Alfred's Cookies

Athanasia reminds Bruce a lot of Talia, but he's born with his eye color, he's amazed, but sometimes it does Bruce miss Talia a lot.

( I answered the first ask about how to handle the powers in the last post)

Thanks for the ask darling

[fan-written]

Quick question!! Does Alfred make the Batfam's uniforms? Because as a seamstress myself I know that would take quite some time out of The Butler's schedule.

But if he does then I have ideas for an AU. This is only my hc:

It's going to be called Agent A and the Ladybug.

Diana and Clark were visiting Bruce one day when Alfred overheard Diana point out another tear in the bat-suit. Alfred didn't want to sigh, but this was the third one tonight.

Then Diana mentioned she knew someone who was discreet. And they were very talented.

So Alfred asked for her for their information. Diana explained that they worked under a pseudonym but that they understood the need for a background check.

A few weeks later Marinette gets an email from one Agent A.

She's not surprised since Wonder Woman warned her beforehand, but she is shocked at how much he's willing to pay her.

Then she sees how many of each suit he's asking her to make.

She agrees, but still tries to lower the price.

She loses

She and Agent A email each other often, mostly to complain about superheroes and their recklessness with clothes. Then about their stubbornness and antics.

Then they start exchanging recipes. And talking about life. A knows about her troubles in school. Mari has learned that A is practically a superhero with everything he does for his bats.

Soon Mari has ideas about their suits and asks if she can change the design slightly on a few of them. This is when Mari learns more about the bats, and the Wayne's. Though she doesn't know it's them.

She also asks to try some experimental fabrics. Ones that are more bullet proof, or thinner but flame resistant. Some of them involve new technology and nanobots.

None of it is to noticeable to the public, but the rest of the hero community takes can tell.

They also notice the Batfam seem to have less injuries.

By this point Mari has made enough suits for each of them that Alfred can just send her a box once a week with the ones that need repairs.

The rest of the JL start to bother Batman about the changes. So of course Bruce asks Alfred when he got the chance to try new fabrics and Alfred shrugs and informs him of their new seamstress.

Cue Batfam freak out.

Diana is still handing out Mari's contact info. Mari becomes the go to designer for all the DC heroes, but she prefers anything to do with Agent A.

Then Alfred learns about Paris. Then he realizes why Diana would know about Mari.

Then maybe Mari's parents die. Not in an akuma attack, or a car accident. But a robbery. in their store. And she was there.

And it's like Bruce is eight again.

But his child is across an ocean, and they've never actually met before. And she can't actually leave Paris because somehow he's adopted another hero child. But this one started when she was actually a child.

Then Mari all but disappears.

All of the heroes get an email about how she is stepping away from commissions until further notice. Agent A is the only one who gets a longer message.

Wonder Woman is silent whenever someone asks where she is. She can only say that she’s alive.

Ladybug is seen on the streets more often than not. Marinette hasn't been seen in school since her parents died.

In fact her former classmates only catch glimpses of her entering the small apartment she now lives in. The emancipation paperwork went through easily at age 17. She finishes class online.

Because she's devoting all her time to finding Hawkmoth she actually finds him. The giant butterfly window was a big giveaway.

Gabriel Agreste and cohorts are taken into custody on her parents first death anniversary.

Chat Noir gives her back the ring through Plagg. They never exchange identities.

Mari is 18 now, standing in front of her apartment door, trying to get the energy to go inside. She may have completed her mission, but it's like a side note in her mind. She's gray, and dull compared to Before. Her apartment isn't much different.

Finally she opens the door.

Its not empty for once. There's a man, tall, with white hair, wearing a suit. She's never seen him before. But she knows.

They hug. And she cries. She finally cries because she can. And she won't get taken advantage of by an emotional terrorist.

Alfred asks if she wants to come home. She can only agree.

They return to the manor and Bruce can't remember why she looks familiar. He only saw a picture of her when he checked out Alfred's file on her from years ago. He's also trying to figure out if he had plans to adopt her.

His kids all kind of assume Bruce had and don't think to much on it. They are a little surprised by how close she stays to Alfred, but they all know Alfred is the best.

Alfred gives her a room next to his. She starts to take up some of his duties. Mostly some cooking, but also all of the clothing repairs. The Batfam don't know about the suits, but it's kind of their own fault. They are considered some of the world's greatest detectives. They should know who's fixing their vigilante stuff

It starts small, designing again. a hair clip here, a pair of socks there. Eventually she's making her own clothes again.

Finally she redesigns her Ladybug suit.

Then she emails the Heroes. Wonder Woman is ecstatic that she's back. Several commission her for other things instead of superhero needs.

Finally Bruce figures out where she came from and confronts Alfred. As far as he knew their designer didn't know their identities.

Alfred asks him to leave it alone, but he's Batman and he's paranoid so he doesn't. So he digs deeper.

Next thing he knows he has a little sister who's younger than some of his kids, but it doesn't matter because he knows Alfred has already adopted her and that makes her family.

He also learns about her role in Paris. Mari is a little surprised at the offer to train together, but not to terribly. She knows he's Batman.

Suddenly their dynamic changes. It's only a little different from that with his kids, but that's because of their relationship with Alfred.

The kids are confused.

Then Cass asks to spar. Those in the house gather to watch and can't believe that Mari is holding her own.

They all want to train with her now and she gets closer to all of them.

Alfred is there for all of it, making sure she's safe, in every possible way.

Finally she begins to heal.

That was a lot longer than I thought it would be, but apparently I have a lot of thoughts about Alfred and Mari.

[persephones-deadly-nightshade]

Beauty and The Beast

ft. familial relationships

A platonic JasonXSteph      pre-romantic TimSteph

Background: 

The batfamily are loyal protectors. A mix between knights a vigilantes. Jason dies. Jason gets resurrected via the pit. Jason comes back pissed. He returns home though, doesn’t go on a killing spree, slowly incorporates back into the family.  

Jason still dislikes Tim, (Replacement) and Damian (Demon Brat). He is still bitter at Bruce, (B stands for bitch) and resenting Dick(Golden boy/perfect child). He loves Cass (hard not to.)

Anyways something happens, maybe he’s benched Demon Spawns not, pit rage occurs, a guest pops by the door. 

Guest is treated rudely and prepares to curse entire family. 

Alfred and Bruce welcome her in. 

She doesn’t curse yet.

Hears Jason wish he didn’t have family. Family sucks.

Curses him into a beast, transforms his servants into furniture, telling him if he doesn’t feel brotherly love and learn to appreciate family, they’ll stick. The family (Ohana Bitches) intervene to give him a shot to fix this. 

They sacrifice their voices/bodies for time. Each person earns Jason an extra 20 years. (100 total) His family members are like ghosts, unable to communicate with Jason besides occasional impressions. They’ll be back if he ever breaks the curse. 

Jason is horrified at himself and sinks deep into depression. The pit madness rages more often than not. Time is passing all to quickly...

Start of Story:

Meet Steph. She is a pretty girl, but all to smart and spirited for her village. She loves her mother, another smart woman, an nurse from the city who moved from the country at the behest of her controlling husband.

Meet the controlling husband, Arthur Brown, aka the “Gaston” of the story.

He is not a good person, or father, but the town loves him.

He wants a “perfect” daughter. Timid, reserved, demure. Steph is resisting, but soon she won’t be able to put him off. 

Her mother goes into the city for special herbs, needed as the village healer. She ends up seeking refuge in the beast’s castle.  

Alfred, who previously disconnected from the Waynes, becoming more butler than grandpa to keep Jason company, takes care of her.

Jason flashes back to the last woman whom they invited in and pit madness overtakes him. He throws her in the dungeons.

Steph comes looking for her mother, running towards the terrifying castle because without her mom, Arthur Brown would bend her quickly to his will. 

Steph and Jason’s first meeting was... A disaster. 

Think Steph screaming, think Jason screaming back. Think Alfred pushing her into the guest bedroom as the Waynes try to calm Jason the fuck down so he can use the girl to break the curse. 

They are in an awkward limbo for days. 

Alfred, fed up, escorts Mrs. Brown out in exchange for Stephanie, after explaining what the very aro/ace Jason will need from Steph. (Basically reassurance that Steph would be trapped, but zero chance of getting raped or seduced.) 

Because she must not think of him a brother purely for the curse, Steph doesn’t get the full story. 

The first week and a half is Jason avoiding the fuck out of Stephanie and being annoyed at Alfred’s deal. 

Steph is terrified. She rashly agreed to this deal including spending time with a giant strong monster, Alfred is kind, but she hasn’t seen the silver candlestick since he broke the rules. She is fearing for his safety.

Alfred’s fine, just giving Jason an I’m so disappointed in you silence.” 

Eventually, Steph starts poking around. 

To preserve his brother’s privacy, he stops her before she can go into the family wing, and has Alfred show her the library. Steph is bored.

She pokes around more. Jason bodily stands in her way. 

She persistently pokes him into spending time together. Listen, She is really fucking bored out of her mind. 

Alfred refuses to show her the training room, so Jason has to do it.

Less than a month later, he caves. (Steph is annoying persistent)

Her eyes light up at the sight of punching bags and Cass’ equipment, that girls were allowed to fight maybe she could.

She doesn’t ask for permission. 

He catches her throwing a fucking terrible punch. 

He can’t let that stand. 

The fam watches in glee, as the blonde pokes every single one of his buttons, and accidentally/unknowingly manipulates him into spending time with her. (Tim might just be falling in love)

(She out of his league, like a lot)

Invisible family thinks it’s adorable.

Alfred tells her the history of the manor, and about the Batfam spirits. They comfort her when she gets scared, an impression of warmth and safety. 

She learns to differentiate. She notices Tim spending a lot of time, doesn’t know it’s Tim. Alfred Knows. Alfred knows all.    

Eventually Jason begins liking teaching, and instead of just a harsh taskmaster, he becomes more of a mentor. 

Coins her Spoiler after hearing about how she resists her shitty dad. 

Winter comes. He teaches her siege warfare and silent moving through snowball fights and games. 

He teachers her piano. How the fuck is his voice that nice? 

He teachers her to cook and they have ingredient fights. If she can get him in a good mood, he’ll tell silly stories about his family, going all wistful. 

Good things come to an end. She gets word that her father is beating Mrs. Brown because she managed to escape. It’s her fault, her mother is getting hurt.

A worried Jason bans her from going home. 

Steph runs away anyways, with a purple cloak streaming behind her.

Wolves attack. She can’t hold them all off. 

The Red Hood makes an appearance, saving her life. 

The Pit rage comes back, he almost couldn’t protect her. Suddenly her broken body gets replaced with, little Timbo’s, babybat’s, his dad’s, Big Wing’s, and Cass’. All gone because he couldn’t control himself. The depression returns full force. 

He barricades himself in his room. 

Steph punches the punching bag, often. She knows she fucked up. She misses her mentor. Things deteriorate.

The orange rose petals are almost out. 

Jason, unable to stand the sight of Steph after associating her with his family, sends a carriage for her to take home, gives her weapons to stand up for herself easier. 

Steph, split worried between her mother and Jason, takes the opportunity to go home, as Jason will have Alfred, but her mom has nobody. 

She gets home to try to protect her mother, and her father captures her and puts her in a shock color that is programmed to send a jolt of electricity each time he presses the button. (Aka when she disobeys)

Arthur Brown, annoyed that she had been protected from him for that long, and dismayed that she had learned to fight, (That punch to his face was beautiful Steph, the whole Batfam is proud.) Decides to storm Wayne castle. 

Mrs. Brown (’cause I still don’t know her name) notices Steph looking troubled and tells her to escape and send a warning to her new family. 

Steph denies the family part twice before her mom shuts her up with a look and pretty much said, “Steph, he’s like, your perfect older brother. You guys even have nicknames.”

Steph realizes she’s right.

Steph disables collar and runs toward the manor, taking the conveniently located, super secret passage. 

(She didn’t take it home initially because she didn’t know, then Alfred told her after the wolf attack, but it wasn’t an emergency because Jason prepped a carriage.)

So Steph arrives as her father does, he is still the better fighter, so Jason goes up against Arthur Brown as Steph and the furniture/servants take out the mob. 

As they are fighting, it is, of course, the perfect time for a heart-to-heart. 

“Why did you come back?/Why did you avoid me?”

“I can’t lose my brother!/I can’t stand seeing my family hurting!”

“What?!?/What!?! 

“Cool/Sup.”

Arthur Brown gets a lucky hit in when the two are dramatically confessing their new familial bonds. 

Jason falls.

Arthur gloats. 

Steph knocks him the fuck out. (Heartwarming)

Steph then bear hugs Jason, Jason pecks her forehead. 

Swirl of magic...

The servants turn human, the Waynes resolidify. There is a beautiful reunion. Oh, Jason also rebecomes human. (Meh) 

Bonus-

As Tim is reforming, Dick shoves him towards Steph. All the bats think a blushing Tim would be hilarious. 

He ends up a little to close.

Steph seeing a person she does not know directly in her personal space. Promptly bends down and yeets the brick she is holding. (Mwahahaha)

It was the start of a beautiful romance for the ages. 

[nightwingmyboi]

Dick Grayson and Temper

For whatever reason, Dick’s temper has become one of the main traits that people focus on when looking at Dick’s character. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, since he does have quite the temper, but since it has become one of those essential aspects of his personality for a lot of people, I just wanted to clarify a few things I think get misconstrued? 

Certain people take Dick having a temper and equate it with him having anger issues or thin skin. It’s bled into art, text posts, fics...where Dick is described/shown essentially as a petty asshole, someone who has a tendency to overreact and lash out at family and friends, someone who is whiny and always complaining (@bigskydreaming​ goes a little more into this perception here). I don’t think this is a fair interpretation of Dick’s character at all. There are two main things I feel like people need to keep in mind when thinking about Dick’s temper. 

1.) Dick’s infamous temper is, 9 times out of 10, directed at criminals. 

Nightwing (1996) #65

When Dick mentions struggling with his temper, he is almost always talking about the anger he feels towards criminals, not loved ones. When he sees people hurt or in danger, especially those closest to him, he gets pissed and can go too far. He often gets angry in defense of his family and those he protects. 

Titans Vol. 2 #29

Batman and Robin #12

In fact, one of the biggest examples of his temper is him beating the Joker to death, as a result of the Joker killing Jason and Tim. Like many heroes, Dick struggles with not crossing the line when faced with crime; this doesn’t mean that he is the same way with those he loves. 

2.) In most circumstances, Dick has demonstrated excellent control of his anger. So, Dick may have a bad temper...but it usually doesn’t make an appearance unless he is under an immense amount of pressure (and sometimes not even then). 

Injustice Gods Among Us #16

Dick’s not a doormat and he can be confrontational if that’s what is needed to get the job done, but he is also known for keeping a cool head under immense pressure and stress. He’s known in the superhero community for resolving conflict and has often been called “the glue” that keeps various teams together. That wouldn’t mesh with the idea that he is constantly losing his temper. In fact, his middle name might as well be de-escalation, because that’s pretty consistently what he does. Look at how he acts in various arguments: 

Example #1: While Nightwing is off-world with the Titans, Jason dies. Likely struggling with grief, Bruce doesn’t attempt to contact Dick while he is off world or when he returns. Dick is left to find out through a teammate, Danny Chase. Despite being left in the dark, Dick still goes to the cave to try to support Bruce. He puts his feelings to the side, and doesn’t even bring up the fact that he was hurt by Bruce’s exclusion. Unfortunately, the conversation derails regardless, and Bruce ends up hitting Dick and telling him that it was a mistake to invite Dick into his life. 

The New Teen Titans #55

Look at how Dick reacts. Even when Batman hits him and yells extremely harsh things at him, he doesn’t lash out in turn or yell back. He keeps calm and continues to talk to Batman; he likely understands that this is a product of Bruce’s grief and as a result allows his feelings/hurts to go unaddressed. 

Example #2 (inspired by @hood-ex​ post here): Garth loses his temper when he learns that the Titans won’t help him with a problem he’s having. When Robin tries to stop the fight, Garth punches him. 

Teen Titans (1966) #28

After he takes the hit, Dick continues to try to keep people from fighting, and in the end, Dick once again puts his bruised feelings to the side and doesn’t say a word of complaint to keep team unity. He still goes and helps Garth with his problem. 

Example #3: After Donna’s death, Dick was devastated. He spiraled into depression. In the aftermath, he was stricter and quicker to anger than he would normally be. Even his leadership of the Outsiders was effected, and as a result, Anissa, Black Lightning’s daughter, was seriously hurt. Black Lightning is not pleased; he slams Nightwing against a wall and yells at him. 

Outsiders (2003) #16

Even when Dick is emotionally compromised and short tempered, he still isn’t looking for a fight. He doesn’t retaliate when Black Lightning slams him against the wall, and he doesn’t interrupt when Pierce tears into him (for a whole page of the comic). It’s not like Pierce goes easy with his criticism; yet, Dick remains stoic and takes it. He doesn’t say a word of complaint or defense, and he doesn’t lash out. He keeps his temper under control. (Just an fyi for those wondering, but this is definitely one of those times Dick deserved a harsh talking to, lmao, support you Black Lightning!!)

Example #4: The Batfam is fighting a villain known as Mother, who is known for brainwashing people. Anyone could be in her control, so when Tim is acting suspiciously, Dick decides to investigate to ensure that Tim is not a double agent. Dick finds out that Tim secretly kept his family in a hidden location to protect them, and unintentionally brings trouble to their door. On the flip side, Tim gets angry at Dick for sneaking around behind his back and putting his family in danger. Though Dick tries to explain his actions, Tim won’t hear it and instead throws a punch. 

Batman and Robin Eternal #5

Even when Tim punches him out of the blue, ironically because he can’t control his temper, Dick just takes the hit and lets him walk away. He doesn’t ever push Tim for an apology, and Tim never gives one. The rest of the series, people give Dick crap for betraying Tim’s trust, and despite Dick’s reasonable concerns being the impetus for his actions, Dick accepts the other’s criticism without complaint. 

Examples #5-57: Just think of all the times that Damian insulted Dick and told him he couldn’t cut it and generally was acting like a little shit, when Dick was struggling with Batman’s death and with taking on the cowl and with running Bruce’s life, and Dick still never gave up on Damian and gave him Robin. Very patient, very thick skin. 

And I could add even more moments! I don’t mean to go overboard, but the idea is that, over pretty much his entire history, from Robin to Nightwing to Batman and back, there are more times that Dick puts his feelings to the side and lets people yell at him (and basically physically assault him RIP) for the greater good, then times he flies off the handle and loses his temper, especially when compared to other characters in the Batfam. Seeing people say that Dick is secretly an angry asshole when pushed a little or is always blowing things out of proportion and being whiny is just annoying, especially when Dick canonically has worked very hard to keep his cool and mediate in various tense situations, even when he has reason to get offended and retaliate. 

And this isn’t me saying that Dick can’t lash out, cause duh he’s a human being and he’s not perfect. He does have a temper and sometimes can say harsh things to those he loves. But, he doesn’t usually lose his cool, and when he does it is usually a surprise. The rarity of Nightwing giving into his temper is part of the reason it is so impactful when he does fly off the handle. 

A lot of the panels you see floating around about Dick’s temper are 1) from times he was brainwashed or mentally influenced (Dick yelling at Donna, Alfred, and Joey are all from a single time when he was brainwashed by Brotherblood for example), 2) from times he was in great emotional/mental distress from the deaths of those close to him, or 3) examples of times that Dick is standing up for himself, that I don’t really see as him having a temper? And a lot of those fights/arguments that are shown are not as one sided as tumblr makes them seem, lmao. Either way, most of these times aren’t really representative of his normal behavior or attitude.

In conclusion, Dick isn’t some petty jerk with anger management issues; he’s a human being, who sometimes gets angry and upset like every other human being in the world. He has a temper, but I don’t feel like it should define him in the way and to the extent that it currently does. 

P.S. This isn’t me trying to excuse the times that Dick has been nasty and let his temper run away from him, obviously. Like I said, he’s human and he’s made mistakes. But he doesn’t lash out normally or often. I’m just trying to put things in perspective. 

[anjuschiffer]

Amira Wayne - Chapter 2

Day 2 of Bio!Dad Bruce Wayne Month 2020! Woo! And, follow @biodad-bruce-month for more content!

Note: The AO3 Link to this fic will be on the first chapter only.

- 

Chapter 2: Father-Daughter Bonding

P.Tag: @theatreandcomicfreak @damianette-is-life @toodaloo-kangaroo @elijahcrevan

Tag: @vixen-uchiha @we-want-mini-mini @ramos123

-

MASTERLIST | Prev

-

Bruce looked at Amira, stumped by her wailing.

At first he thought it was because she already missed Talia, but it’s been a solid three hours since then and she never cried between that time until now. It wasn’t until he had placed her on his bed that she started to become fussy, her small hands waving all over the place.

Perhaps she adored being held?

“Master Bruce - good heavens! What is that- is that a child you have there Master Bruce?” Alfred asked as he stepped into Bruce’s bedroom with a tray of tea, appalled by the odor in the room.

“Meet Amira...my daughter.” Bruce introduced, watching as Alfred set down the tray, slowly approaching the wailing girl.

“Pardon me Master Bruce, but when was the last time you changed the young miss?”

“Changed?” Bruce asked, glancing at Alfred and then at Amira. “As in, clothes?”

“I meant her diaper.” Alfred clarified, picking up Amira and bouncing her in his arms, Bruce not liking how easily Amira stopped crying. “I will bathe the young miss while you start heading to the nearest baby store. Here’s a list of things I need you to buy.”

Alfred quickly took out his notepad and scribbled away, tearing off two sheets worth of writing and handing it to Bruce. “Hurry now. We don’t have all evening.”

And so Bruce was pushed out of his room, sent on a mission to buy... baby things…

-

“Do you need help si- Mister Wayne! Oh! I-um...how can I help you?” The store worker asked him, averting her gaze.

What was the richest person in Gotham doing in a department store like the one she worked in?!

Bruce looked at her name tag. Elizabeth. He’ll make sure to pay her for his troubles.

“Hi, I’m looking for all of these items, but I’ve searched throughout this store and can’t seem to find them.” Bruce said, handing Elizabeth the list Alfred had given him. He watched as the young girl’s eyes widened before looking at Bruce and back at the list.

“You can find all of these on our third floor, in the baby department.” Elizabeth provided, stifling a laugh when Bruce looked at her confused. 

There was a third floor? “Would you like it for someone to-”

“Please.” Bruce practically begged, Elizabeth nodding. Bruce watched as she ran to a fellow coworker, gestured at him before running back to him. Bruce noticed the way the other coworker paled when she saw him.

“Well Mister Wayne, my name is Elizabeth and I’ll be glad to be of service.”

“Thank you so much.”

-

Bruce spent the next three hours being led by Elizabeth around the baby section, only then noticing that he really wasn’t up to the task. 

When Elizabeth talked about Amira’s age, Bruce didn’t know what to say. He didn’t know how old she was, what she was able to do or even eat. Vaccines? Apparently, babies needed that too. 

“I also suggest talking to your daughter frequently.” Elizabeth states, picking up another adorable outfit for Amira. You can never go wrong with dresses. “Talking to her would help enhance her speech, especially if she’s not babbling. Babbling should be common for her if she’s around six months old.”

“How do you know so much?” Bruce decided to ask, looking at the cart that was almost filled to the brim with supplies and clothes. There were bottles, sippy cups, plastic bowls, bibs, a few interactive toys, a white crib and a stroller. Oh...and diapers...lots of them.

“Well, I want to become a pediatrician, so I often find myself reading about child development and such during my time off.” Elizabeth told him with a soft smile. “And then there’s the fact that I practically raised my two younger siblings since they were newborns. I often helped my mother take care of them, absorbing all the new knowledge like a sponge. 

While it sounds like she dumped a bit of the responsibility on me, I know my mother meant well. A slice of what it meant to be a mother, to be responsible for another life.”

Bruce hummed at her answer, picking up a white pajama on the rack, wondering if Amira would even like it. Does she even know what a bee was? Did she even know what was going on? Did he even know what was going on? What his life was for him now?

“I wonder if I’m up to the task.” Bruce muttered to himself, but Elizabeth heard it loud and clear.

“No one is born knowing what they’re expected to do and be ready for.” Elizabeth said, picking up another outfit. “Sometimes, we just have to go with the flow and see where we land.”

Bruce repeated those words mentally, picking up another pajama, a yellow this time, it had a sheep on it.

Go with the flow, huh?

-

After spending hours in the baby area, Bruce was ready to go home, mentally relaying the notes Elizabeth had given him. 

He started laying out the plans he had in mind for Amira’s nursery, deciding on using the room next to his. While the only way to enter it was through the main door, he could always make another door that connected the nursery and his room for easier access.

After unloading everything from the car to inside the manor, Bruce decided to bring some fresh clothing to the last place he saw Alfred and Amira, panic setting into him when he heard wailing coming from the room.

Bruce pushed the door open, seeing Alfred with Amira in his arms, the girl reaching for something that wasn’t there.”

“Welcome back Master Bruce.” Alfred wearily said, the two noticing that Amira quickly looked over to Bruce, her small hands no longer searching for him. Her wails became hiccups as she continued to stare at Bruce. “Look, Amira. It’s your father. I told you he would be back.”

As soon as Alfred said those words, Amira began to cry again, Bruce quickly taking her from Alfred and began to walk her around the room. He then remembered that Elizabeth had told him.

He should talk to her.

“Amira. I’m right here. I’m not going anywhere.” Bruce listened as her wails grew softer. “I went to buy some things, but now I’m back.”

Bruce listened as Amira softly stopped crying, now tiny hiccups escaping her. “There, there.”

“I’ve seen you’re starting to step up to the task, Master Bruce.”

“Someone has to look after her. Who better than us, her family?” Bruce asked, then realizing that Amira had yet to be clothed. 

Bruce wandered to the bags, quickly taking out the mountain of clothing. 

He quickly sets Amira down on the bed so that he can organize the clothing. In doing so, he missed how Amira sat up. He only noticed it when she had crawled to sit in front of him. 

She can sit. And crawl. 

“If she can sit by herself and is starting to crawl, she may already be six months old.”

Bruce watched as Amira took a liking to the two clothing articles in front of her. Or rather, the two pajamas. More specially the white and yellow pajamas that Bruce had picked out - the sheep and the bee respectfully.

He watched in wonder as Amira stared at them, looking between the two for a while before patting the yellow onesie with the sheep on it. 

“Sheep it is then.” Bruce said, unbuttoning the pajama. How did he forget the onesie that goes underneath?

He quickly clothed Amira, clasping the last button to find Amira looking at him with her wide green eyes. 

“You are a natural.” Alfred decided to speak up, watching as Bruce picked up Amira with confidence. 

“Or perhaps I’m willing to learn.” Bruce stated, watching as Amira yawned, watching her start to doze off. “One day at a time.”

-

The two men luckily found out that Amira was seven months old, thanks to the birth certificate and other documents Talia had left in the baby carrier. It made certain legal procedures go more smoothly, while for others, it took some time.

As days went by, Bruce and Alfred started to notice that Amira was smarter than what she let on. 

She knew to not place anything in her mouth that wasn’t food, something that both Bruce and Alfred appreciated. Bruce quickly found out that she liked to observe items, Amira often gazing at a toy for minutes, listening to a rattle make the faintest sound as she passed it from one chubby hand to the other.

She would recognize the places she was in, lay down when she was in the crib and remain seated while she was on the couch or in a chair. Alfred found out that she adored watching him cook, her eyes following every movement he made as he prepared dinner as she sat in her highchair. 

Alfred also found out that she was very fond of strawberries and apples, Alfred melting when Amira would grace him with the largest smile possible when she would realize that Alfred had made her favorite purees. 

She would smile and frown but would never make a sound that wasn’t a cry. Even when Bruce noticed that she wanted to let out a cry, she never whimpered or sniffled. It was as if she was suppressing those emotions. Luckily, after paying Dr.Leslie Thompkins a visit, Bruce learned that it was just a habit she must have learned while she was with Talia. Thompkins assured Bruce that by talking with Amira more, it would help her unlearn that habit. Surely enough, the doc was right.

Amira soon grunted, babbled and rambled more frequently and at random points in the day. Babbling not only helped her get Bruce’s attention, but also made him smile more. Amira soon learned that ‘Dada’ made him smile even more, especially when he would not be home for longer periods of time. As much as she adored Alfred, no one beats Dada.

Now having a system of communication, Bruce would often coax Amira to come towards him, Amira standing just three steps away from him.

He would watch as she would proudly stand by herself before taking a single wobbly step towards him. Another two steps followed slowly after, Amira bursting into a giggling fit when she reached Bruce. 

Those tiny steps soon turned into hops, strides and jumps, Bruce not believing how quickly time had passed. 

He watched her grow before his eyes, feeling a smile grow on his face as he kept listening to Amira read to him. 

“-ate through one nice green leaf, and after that he felt much better.” Amira said, turning the page. “Now he wasn’t hungry anymore and- is there something wrong Dad?” Amira asked, Bruce wondering what she meant. “You’re crying.”

“Am I know?” Bruce asked, raising his hand to his eyes, wiping away what was a tear. Seems like he was. “It’s nothing. Probably some dust got into my eye.”

“Are you sure you shouldn’t be patrolling tonight?” Amira asked, showing Bruce himself in the form of a Batman plushie.

It’s been two years since Bruce became Batman, all thanks to a single incident that almost cost him his life. He almost left Amira in the same situation as him when he was ten...

He needed to make Gotham a safer place for his daughter, what better way than striking fear into criminals?

Some people of the general public are glad to have him, despite it being a mere eight percent. Everyone else fears him, except Gotham’s villains...and his own daughter. It didn’t take long for her to find out he was Batman. Then again, it’s not like Bruce was trying to keep it a secret from her.

As for the Batman plushie, it was a gift from Alfred to Amira, something about having Bruce always with her.

Bruce smiled at the plushie, getting up from the bed and tucking Amira in.

“As much as Gotham needs Batman, you also need me to tuck you into bed.”

“Dad, I’m seven. I can do it myself.” 

“Does that mean you don’t want me to tuck you in anymore?” He watched as Amira pursed her lips before sinking into the comforter some more.

“I still like being tucked into bed.” Amira muttered, gaining a chuckle from Bruce. “Are we still going to the circus tomorrow?” Amira asked, springing up, watching her father’s face for some type of confirmation.

“Amira,” Bruce said with a frown, tucking one of her hair strands behind her ear. “Remember what we talked about?”

Amira hung her head, looking at Batman in her hands. It was times like this that Amira wished they never lived in Gotham, that her father wasn’t a billionaire...

“If it’s a place where the public knows you or a place that I can easily be spotted, I can’t go.” Amira recited, letting a frown replace her smile. She threw herself back onto her bed, throwing her comforter over her head.

Bruce let out a heavy huff.

“Goodnight.” He whispered, deciding to let her be. As soon as he stepped out of her room, Bruce faced Alfred.

“Is Miss Amira asleep already?” Alfred asked, motioning to the tray with a cup of milk. “She usually drinks a glass before going to sleep.”

“She’s awake, but I wonder if she would even talk.” When he saw Alfred lift a brow, Bruce decided to continue. “I told her she couldn’t join me to go watch the Haly’s Circus tomorrow. The press already knows I’m going, I can’t let them know about Amira just yet.”

“With all due respect Master Bruce,” Alfred began, opening the door to walk in. “The longer you keep hiding her from the public, the harder it will be to keep it that way. You can’t keep sheltering her away from a world she deserves to see. To be in.”

Bruce was left with those words in his mind, wondering what he should do.

Ever since he was assaulted, he vowed to protect Amira, even if it meant that she could not step foot outside the manor.

When she turned three, Bruce made sure to homeschool her, teaching her the basics of English, which included reading and writing. One she was five, he taught her the basics in math and science. As a side subject, Bruce was starting to teach her French, hoping to teach her mandarin when she grows older. 

But now that Alfred was stating that Bruce should allow Amira to go out, Bruce wondered if he had been approaching this situation wrong this entire time.

But what if villains found out about her being his daughter? Of being a Way-

Bruce stood there in his thoughts for a while before an idea wouldn’t leave his head. Why didn’t he think about this sooner?

-

Amira let out a gasp as she entered the circus tent, gaping at how large it was, taken aback at how many people there were inside the tent.

There was even a second level inside the tent!

“Is it usually this crowded?” Amira asked the man next to her. Or rather, Tom Dupain - her ‘father.’

“I heard it’s like this because of Mr.Wayne visiting the circus today, but it usually is this crowded during Sunday shows.” Tom provided, watching as Amira continued to look around, a smile escaping him. 

He always wondered what it felt like to have a child, wondering if he was even up to the task.

When Bruce Wayne had reached out to him to look after his daughter, Tom Dupain accepted the honor. After all, it was thanks to Bruce that his tiny bakery in Gotham was taking off, Tom’s dream of being a well known bakery taking form. All it took was one gala and Tom’s pastries for his dream to take off, Tom knowing he owed Bruce a huge favor.

He had met the young Wayne at that very gala, the girl having snuck into the kitchen to get a taste of one of his pastries. Amira Wayne - Tom only knew her as Amira and the granddaughter of Mr.Alfred Pennyworth. Tom didn’t think Amira was Bruce’s daughter as there was no news about the young Wayne.

While Tom had only known her for a few moments before Alfred shooed her away, Tom had grown a soft spot for the child.

“Mr.Dupain-”

“Tom is fine.”

“Mr.Tom,” Amira corrected herself. “Thank you for letting me be here today.” Amira said, holding Tom’s hand with both of hers. 

Just as Tom was about to respond, the ringmaster chose that moment to begin the show.

Amira watched as the ringmaster welcomed the people and shouted out her father, seeing him across the tent, smiling when they saw each other. 

The ringmaster then introduced the Flying Graysons, Amira’s eyes widening at how high up the family was. She wondered if her own father would allow her to be that high up.

With the cheering of the crowd, Amira watched with wonder as the Grayson’s started their performance, starting with a somersault. She watched as the man caught his wife with ease, the woman sending a salut before going onto the platform. Amira watched with absolutely glee as she watched the son do two somersaults in the air before returning back to the platform. 

Amira listened as the ringmaster announced the Graysons' famous trick. Amira stood at the edge of her seat, feeling her heart thump loudly against her chest. She watched as the woman spun once, twice...thrice! But as soon as she was caught by her husband, the string of the bar snapped, Amira feeling her heart come to a stop. 

She watched as the two fell and just as they were two were mere feet away from touching the ground, her eyes were covered. 

Amira would never forget the screams she heard as she was ushered out of the tent. She heard Tom whisper to her that everything was going to be okay in rushed French. 

That everything was fine. 

That was the first and last time she was allowed to step out of the manor for a very long time.

NEXT

[sweet-sammy-kisses]

Monsters of Past

2

For my @badthingshappenbingo​ prompt take me instead.  Fandom: Batman Characters: Tim Drake, Jason Todd, Cassandra Cain, Dick Grayson, Damian Wayne, Bruce Wayne, Alfred Pennyworth, and OC Rating: M Warnings: Past rape/non-con, rape/non-con elements, Tim Drake has bad parents (they are the worst) Lots of protective Jason, Cass and Dick Summary: "That is what I was trying to protect you from Damian." Tim's voice was hollow. "You talk about your birthright as Bruce's blood son, that you want everything you deem yours handed to you on a silver platter without knowing that there is a price you are going to pay. Do you know how many there are who would love to have the Crown Prince of Gotham's blood son in their power? Forced to do whatever they want to seal the deal? They are the monster waiting in the shadows knowing their money and power will protect them. I was trying to protect you, Damian.

"To protect Damian Tim gives himself to a monster of his past. Word Count: 2,901 You can also read it on AO3

"Enough is enough. Today is the day that I take my birthright back from Drake." Damian had waited long enough for his father to dismiss the unwanted one, he had already been removed as Robin as one of them now it was time to remove him from his position as CEO - it was his birthright and that Drake was still in his place filled Damian with rage - and once and for all show Drake he wasn't wanted nor needed and it was time for him to move on, far away from them.

Damian had overheard a conversation between Drake and Tam before Drake discovered and destroyed the bugs Damian had planted in the CEO's office the last time he had been there reminding Drake that he was nothing but a temporary replacement until father took back what was his or passed it onto him as it is his birthright.

Tam had brought up the owner of a company that they needed to work with but the CEO was holding out until Tim agreed to a private meeting with him.

"We can't keep putting this meeting off. The board members are beginning to ask questions as to why you don't want to meet with Aiden Tyler."

"I know. His company is doing some good but Aiden Tyler is an ass."

"Tim!"

"I'm sorry but I have dealt with that man in the past and he is a real scumbag and if we didn't need his product I would tell him to go to hell. Call and see if you can make an appointment with him sometime next week."

Damian knew that was his chance to prove he was worthy to take over now, despite his age.

+******+

Aiden Tyler quickly agreed to meet with Damian and the youngest Wayne couldn't help but preen with pride.

"That will show Drake." He will secure the deal and prove once again how worthless Drake is then maybe they could finally be rid of him.

Dressed in his finest of suits Damian arrived at the five-star restaurant where he walked in and owned the place like the Prince he is. "I am meeting Aiden Tyler, take me to him." He demanded.

The host quickly did as ordered and Damian couldn't help but smirk the man knew not to mess with a Wayne.

Led to a booth in the back a handsome man with deep brown hair with streaks of silver the man was fit for nearing his fifties. Dark eyes met his and Damian refused to shiver as they roamed over him with something in them that made him uncomfortable.

"Mr. Tyler, I am Damian Wayne, I am thankful that you could work me into your schedule." Damian greeted him.

Aiden's lips curled up into a smile, "Please call me Aiden and when it comes to Wayne Enterprise I am always willing to make room. I'm sure that we can work out a partnership that is agreeable to both parties."

There was something about the way the man spoke that reminded Damian of a predator stalking its prey. 'Well, Mister Tyler you will learn that Damian Wayne-Al Ghul is no one's prey.' "I hope that as well."

"Well isn't this nice but if you want to do business with Wayne Enterprise you need to talk to me."

"What are you doing here Drake?" Damian hissed out, he couldn't believe that Drake had the nerve to show up here and ruin his chance to prove to his father he was ready.

Thankful for all the train Bruce had given them Tim was able to hide his feelings behind a cool mask as he was forced to face someone he hoped he would never see again unless it was behind jail bars. "I am doing my job, Damian. Now, why don't you run along and leave this to the grown-ups." Tim ordered not suggested.

Damian bristled much like Alfred the cat and he looked ready to spew his usual vile insults towards Tim but right now he didn't care, he needed Damian far away and somewhere safe.

"If you leave now I will not inform Bruce of you trying to endanger Wayne Enterprise's." Tim held up a hand as Damian went to speak, "As you would know because of your age any agreement you reached with Mister Tyler would not be binding. So in order for this partnership to be legal, it is me that must make the deals. Now head home Damian." Tim ordered.

A low growl escaped Damian he hated to admit that Drake had a point, after all, he was not of age to make any partnership legal which is why he had planned on creating the agreement than bringing his father in to show him he was capable. Now he couldn't for that surely end with his father agreeing with Drake. "This is far from over," Damian warned before storming out.

"Such a shame, I was looking forward to seeing what young Mister Wayne had to offer me." Aiden's voice was like nails on a chalk board and all Tim wanted to do was run far away but it was too late for if he did nothing the man would go after Damian again.

'You can do this Tim. You have faced the likes of the Joker and Ra. You can face him.' Tim repeated to himself as he forced the smile back on his face, "I'm sorry but you will have to settle with me."

Aiden's smile turned wicked, "We both know that I won't be settling for you, Tim. Come sit, let us catch up before we get down to business."

Having little choice Tim slipped into the booth.

Tim could feel the vile beginning to build up in the back of his throat as Aiden's hand slid up his thigh. He did his best not to shudder as unwanted memories flooded his mind.

Moving closer Aiden removed any space between the two of them, "I still hope that you cry as pretty as you use to do." Aiden whispered in Tim's ear. "I am going to have so much fun breaking you all over again. It was so sweet of you to offer to take your little brother's place."

Tim wondered if it was wrong that he wished for an Arkham outbreak at that very moment. "As long as you leave Damian alone you can have me instead."

"Agreed." Never had such a word sent pure terror flowing through Tim's body.

+******+

"Father! I demand that you talk to Drake!" Damian growled as he slammed the door to the manor open.

Bruce could feel a headache building, he wished that his two youngest sons could get along. "What now?"

"I had a meeting with Aiden Tyler, one that Drake has been putting off for a month, since he wasn't in a hurry to seal the deal I took it onto myself to see it through."

Cass appeared out of nowhere, her expression hard, "Did you leave Tim with him?" She shocked everyone with her growl.

Damian blinked at Cassandra, taken back by the rage burning in her eyes. "Yes."

Horror filled Cass' eyes before she was moving. Bouncing to his feet Dick followed after his sister, "Cass, what is going on?"

"Tyler hurt little brother in past and is hurting him now." Was all that Cass offered before she was gone, leaving their very confused family behind.

"Yeah, that doesn't sound too good, someone gets Babs on the line and have her find out everything she can about this Aiden Tyler," Jason suggested. Something was bugging him, he had heard that name before and the fact that it made him want to reach for his guns wasn't a good sign.

Worry shone in Dick's blue eyes, "Do you think Timmy might be in danger?" His and Tim's relationship hadn't been the same since he didn't believe Tim that Bruce was alive and caused him to lose his standing in the hero community, he kept meaning to fix it but he kept pushing it off and now his baby brother might be in trouble and he might turn away his offer of comfort.

"I do," Jason growled out.

+******+

At Alfred's suggestion, they had moved down to the cave to do a background check on Aiden Tyler and discovering that Tyler Holdings had a history of deals with Jack and Janet Drake made Jason even more on edge.

He stepped over the edge when Cass returned a protective and murderous aura pouring off of her and a long line of hickies on Tim's neck arrived. Cass was curled around Tim, looking like a mama bear ready to take down anyone who proved a threat to her cub, her sharp glare had everyone on edge.  

A gasp of horror escaped Dick, "Timmy."

Jason knew what those marks meant, he had worn his own when he was living on the streets.

Bruce looked like he was going to be sick, his parents and then Alfred had shielded him from the lengths some would go to get more money.

Though Damian had been raised as an Al Ghul his mother had made sure he would never have to lower himself to serve others so he had no clue as to what powder keg he was about to set off. "What is the meaning of this Drake? You were supposed to be sealing a deal not lowering yourself to be a common whore." Damian snarled at Tim.

"Damian! Enough!"

Shock filled Damian's face as he found himself taking a step back at the anger in Dick's voice, his Batman had never spoken to him like that and he didn't know why Richard chose know to speak up. "Why are you defending him now Richard? I am only speaking the truth as I have before, Drake has proven himself to be nothing but a whore unfit to wear the Wayne name."

"I'm only the whore to spare you from becoming one." Tim's voice was soft but it echoed through the cave.

Damian could only blink at Drake before scoffing at him, "I would never lower myself as something so disgraceful. You make no sense."

The fire burned in Tim's dull eyes, "There was a reason that I kept putting off meeting with Tyler. I was waiting until I was sure that Bruce, Dick or Jason could be there with me. The bastard wouldn't try anything with one of them there. He just likes them young and pretty."

"What are you saying, Timmy?" Dick didn't know if he wanted to know the answer.

"You think that this is the first time that I had to give myself over for a business deal?" The laugh that escaped Tim was bitter. "I have been doing this for years. I was a prize that my parents dangled before anyone they could. Now that I am CEO of Wayne Enterprise I am an even bigger prize."

Jason's eyes were glowing green as he realized what his baby bird was saying.

Dick looked like he was going to murder someone.

Bruce looked horrified.

And Damian... Damian looked baffled.

"That is what I was trying to protect you from Damian." Tim's voice was hollow. "You talk about your birthright as Bruce's blood son, that you want everything you deem yours handed to you on a silver platter without knowing that there is a price you are going to pay. Do you know how many there are who would love to have the Crown Prince of Gotham's blood son in their power? Forced to do whatever they want to seal the deal? They are the monster waiting in the shadows knowing their money and power will protect them. I was trying to protect you, Damian."

To no one's surprise, Jason took a protective stance in front of Tim, there were few things he hated more than child rapist, the main one being the Joker, and to hear that his little brother had been forced to entertain monsters like that had him tasting the pit in the back of his mouth and he wanted nothing more than to hunt all those bastards down but that would come later right now all that matters is Tim. "Cass, take Tim upstairs and call those friends of his. He needs to be with people who will love and support him."

It was telling how awful that Tim was feeling as he didn't put up any protest as he allowed Cass to lead him out of the cave, he stopped only once to look at Damian, "You might not believe this but I do love you Damian and there was no way that I was going to let my little brother be forced to do something like that, not if I could protect him in ways that no one protected me."

Bruce collapsed into the chair as he buried his face in his hands. Dick would have offered him comfort but his legs gave out beneath him.

A dangerous growl escaped Jason as he flew a fist at the punching bag, he didn't care what Bruce said tonight he was going hunting.

"I didn't know." A shaken Damian whispered, he thought that Drake hated him just like he hates him but to know what Drake protected him from made his world spin. His mother had drilled into him that Timothy Drake was his enemy and the only way to take his place in his father's family was to get rid of him. "This makes no sense. Why would Drake do that for me?"

"Because you are his little brother and he was trying to keep you safe," Dick answered him with a sad smile on his face. Tim had protected Damian but they failed in keeping him safe. "There has to be a way to fix this." Dick just didn't know how to start.

A strong hand landed on his shoulder lifting his head Dick found himself staring into Bruce's grim face, "We messed up B."

"I know." Bruce felt guilt building up in him, he is Tim's father it is his duty to keep him safe. "All we can do is be there for him. Jason is right though Tim needs his friends here. We need to show him that we love him and are here for him."

No one noticed when Jason slipped away from them he had a monster to hunt.

+*****+

Kitchen

Jason stalked towards the door with purpose in his step.

"Master Jason."

Halting in mid-step Jason clenched his fists at his sides, "I cherish you Alfred but not even you can stop me from doing this." Jason warned.

"I don't intend to Master Jason," That had Jason whirling around to look at Alfred, the man looked calm but Jason could see the storm brewing in his eyes, "I would just like to inform you that Aiden Tyler will be attending a party tonight and from his habits, he will not arrive at home until around 2 am, which at such time the Sirens have promised to keep the rest of the Bats busy," Alfred informed Jason. No one hurt one of his grandchildren.

A wicked grin appeared on Jason's face, "This is why you are the best Alfred."

"Indeed. Now I need to prepare snacks for Master Tim's guests. Do be sure to return tonight and I shall have your favourite cookies waiting for you." Alfred gave Jason a soft smile.

"You rule Alfred." Jason would come back for Alfred and look after Tim.

+*****+

With Tim curled up in a puppy pile with Bart, Connor, Cassie and Cass watching Star Wars. The Sirens leading Batman, Nightwing and Robin on a chase throughout Gotham the Red Hood was free to deal with business.

Aiden was riding a high he had sealed a deal with Wayne Enterprise that was sure to make him an even wealthier man and his favourite toy returned to him. Nothing could bring him down.

That was until he felt the cold metal of the barrel of the gun pressed against his forehead. A red helmet followed and Aiden felt a sense of fear.

The Red Hood was in his home.

"Whoever sent you I am sure that I can pay you double what they offered you."

"I am a Crime Lord I don't need your money and no one sent me. See I have issues with people like you who target children and think because you have the money and power that you are above the law. But you aren't above me. I am here to ensure that no other child is gifted to you."

Aiden had been so focused on the gun at his head he never noticed the second one aimed at his groin until it was too late.

Beneath his helmet, Jason grinned as Aiden screamed in pain on the floor, blood pooling around him.

+*****+

"Is he dealt with?" Dick asked.

Jason grinned at his older brother, "He will never hurt baby bird again."

While Dick wished he had been the one to deal with that bastard he needed to keep Bruce busy, still that didn't mean he wouldn't ruin him in other ways. Someone had sent Clark a copy of everything Babs had dug up on Aiden. He would see that monster ruined, without money and his power stripped from him, until he was as helpless as he made Tim feel.

[hintofelation99]

Sick day headcannons!!!!!!!

Hell yeah, I do have a post on this already (linked here) but sick day headcanons are some of my favs so let’s do some more! (Just btw there will be some repeats but that just means I rlly like that headcanon)

Dick

Dick: Oh no, god no!

Wally: What’s wrong?!

Dick: I’m dying!

Wally, suspicious: Okay…

Dick: Please Wally this is serious, I need help!

Wally, deciding to take Dick seriously: Okay, what’s wrong? What do you need?

Dick: Just a coffin. Made of maple- no oak! And roses, preferably white, oh or blue! With baby’s breath. And-

Wally: Dick, what’s wrong?!

Dick: I burnt the roof of my mouth.

Wally leaves.

A good rule of thumb for Dick is the more dramatic he is the less serious the situation. The less dramatic he is the more serious the situation.

He will go into work with a cold and complain the entire day.

If he has something serious that’s contagious he’ll call in sick but just say it’s a slight stomach bug.

If it’s not contagious he will act like everything is completely fine.

One time he did this after getting an injury on patrol and ended up passing out and spending that night and the next day in the ICU.

He has become a bit more responsible over the years, mainly bc he thinks it’s adorable how sweet and cuddly Damian gets.

His favorite sick day activity is eating junk food and watching rom coms under a fuzzy blanket .

Babs

Dick: Please go to bed!

Babs: I am, I am, just one more line of code.

Dick: You’ve said that for the last three hours!

Babs tries to relax when sick but she has trouble actually taking a step back to rest.

Most of the time she’ll take a nightquil then get distracted by something and ends up falling asleep in front of her screen.

Usually Cass or Steph will come over and take care of her.

Steph always makes the best comfort food. And usually Cass will tuck Babs into bed.

Babs loves dozing on the couch to the sound of Cass and Steph laughing in the kitchen as they make her soup.

If Cass and Steph can’t come over she loves talking to them over discord while eating take out. Usually she and Cass just listen to Steph babble or she watches on of them stream something.

She also usually ends up falling asleep.

Jason

Bruce: Are you sick?

Jason: I’m legally dead.

Bruce: That doesn’t-

Jason: So,legally, no. I am not sick.

Jason will forever and always argue that he can’t get sick since he already died.

When he was little he was rarely able to get extra rest when he was sick. Because when he was really little he wanted to go to school to avoid Willis. After Catherine died he was too busy just trying to survive to focus on being healthy.

But when Catherine was alive and Willis was away Jason would stay home from school, and if Catherine was sober she would read to him and sing lullabies. This only happened like twice but Jason cherishes those memories of Catherine.

As a kid if he was ever sent home for being sick he’d get in huge trouble with Willis.

After being adopted the first time he was sent home with a fever he begged Alfred not to tell Bruce and hid in his closet until he stopped crying being sad. Alfred sat by the closet door with soup, a grilled cheese, and tea, reading The Princess Bride aloud until Jason came out. It took two hours.

Jason’s favorite sick day activity is drinking tea and rereading The Princess Bride (with the movie playing quietly in the background) while wearing his Wonder Woman hoodie.

Cass

Steph: Cass why are you patrolling while sick?!

Cass shrugs.

Steph, with a sigh: You’re allowed to take a sick day, okay?

Cass looks unsure but nods.

Steph: C’mon, let’s get you a bath and fuzzy blankets.

Cass forgets that she’s not just a weapon/tool. She forgets that she’s allowed to rest when sick.

Because of this she will keep going no matter what and tends to view ‘taking a sick day’ as a failure.

Steph, Tim, and Babs have been working on this with her. She’s improved a lot now that Tim lost his spleen and gets sick easily.

Now usually Steph cooks for her while Babs lays with her.

Cass isn’t against taking medicine but she never feels like the situation is severe enough to require medication. So someone in the fam has to convince her to take her meds.

She becomes extremely cuddly when sick and will cling to anyone near her.

Her favorite sick day activity is watching old horror movies with Steph or Babs.

Steph

Steph: I’m fine.

Steph: I’m fine.

Steph: I’m fine.

Steph: I’m- I have a fever of 104, I should rest.

Stephs mom is a doctor, so she’s used to being told “it’s just a cold, you’re fine”.

Usually she keeps going until she can’t then sleeps for like three days.

But it’s less out of stubbornness and more out of habit. So if someone tells her to rest she’s immediately like “okay!” and takes the sick day.

Babs always calls or comes over to check on her every day that she’s sick.

Cass has been learning how to cook and loves making Steph food when she’s sick.

Tim used to come over but now he always calls.

Stephs favorite sick day activity is sleeping with an ice pack or heating pad, depending on the sickness, with a giant cup of ginger ale and Cass curled up beside her.

Tim

Jason: Tim, are you sick?

Tim, tiredly staring at case files: No I-

Tim is interrupted by a violent coughing fit.

Tim: Oh, I guess I am?

Growing up Tim loved getting sick because it meant the house keeper would come over and take care of him and he might even get a hug.

But she stopped coming over when Tim was ten, his parents thought he was old enough to handle being sick on his own.

Sick days in the manor were a shock to him because he was rarely alone, there was always one family member by his side.

Now that he’s immunocompromised he’s always surrounded by people, he pretends to get annoyed with it but really he loves how much they care.

Dick always sings Romani lullabies and runs his fingers through Tim’s hair. Jason, Duke, and Steph will cook for him. Damian stay by his side and bring him tea. Babs will play video games with him. And Cass does a bit of everything, at least everything other than sing to him.

The family also takes Tim getting sick very seriously so if they here one cough he’s immediately being interrogated and getting his temperature checked.

Tim’s favorite sick day activity is laying under a weighted blanket with a cup of tea and playing video games with Babs, Steph, Duke, and Cass.

Duke

Dick, knocking on Duke’s door: Hey bud, why are you still in bed? I thought we were training together?

Duke: Sorry, I forgot to cancel. I’m sick and don’t think I can handle training today.

Dick: You’re sick?!

Duke: Yeah, but don’t worry I’ve been disinfecting and cleaning so no one else should get sick.

Dick: I’m not worried about getting sick, I’m worried about you!

Duke: …oh, okay.

Growing up sick days were spent at home either resting alone or with one of his parents.

He had to do some fending for himself (like cleaning and making food when his parents weren’t home with him) but nothing extreme or unexpected. So, overall he had pretty normal sick days.

After he parents went missing he was so focused on getting them back and saving them that he never stopped to rest when sick.

Now as a member of the Wayne family his sick days are always spent with someone by his side, at least they are if he tells the family he’s sick.

He’s gotten in trouble several times for not telling Alfred/the family that’s he’s sick. Not because he puts Tim at risk, he like all the family is very cautious about that, but because everyone worries about him and wants to help take care of him.

After several lectures from Alfred he’s finally getting better about telling the family when he’s sick.

His favorite sick day activity is reading Jason’s copy of The Princess Bride while having a bowl of Alfred’s chicken noodle soup.

Damian

Jason: Are you sick?

Damian: N-

Damian sneezes like a kitten.

Damian: No.

Cass, smiling: Sick baby brother, cute sneeze.

Damian tries to be offended but ends up having a sneezing fit.

Steph: That’s so adorable!!

Damian has the most adorable sneezes. He literally sounds like a kitten and the entire family and hero community finds it adorable. Damian hates it.

He used to try and pretend he wasn’t sick and just work through it.

Then he sneezes in front of Harley and Ivy and they cooed over him for an hour.

Now he grumpily secluded himself in his room when sick.

Usually the family will check on him and find that Jon flew over and they’re cuddling on his bed watching cartoons.

When Damian’s sick he really craves spicy food. Like everything he eats he’ll add hot sauce or pepper to. His food is so spicy that only Cass can handle it, like it makes ghost peppers look like child’s play.

His favorite sick day activity is drinking masala chai under one of Tim’s fuzzy blankets while wearing Dick’s old hoodies and surrounding himself with various soft things he stole from his siblings. This is preferably done while eating spicy tomato or lentil soup and watching cartoons with Jon.

[the-middle-grounds]

So now that I have energy and have rewritten this about 5 times!  Blind (and colorblind) Batfam!

*I tried to be as sensitive about how I wrote this since I’m not 100% familiar with the blind community (I know basic etiquette) so if I did something bad or inappropriate, send me an ask with where and what can be fixed!

BRUCE

Bruce’s occipital lobe was severely damaged during the murder of his parents, and he was blinded as a result.

He got Ace, a service dog, to help him with the trauma, as well as helping him get around whenever he wasn’t in the mood to be with Alfred.  The two of them are close.

Bruce eventually started hearing about echolocation in humans, and started to learn about that and even using it.  He’s so proficient in it, he doesn’t even really need Ace anymore, but there’s not a chance in hell he’s getting rid of his best bud.

People know Bruce Wayne is blind, and they try to use it to their advantage.  Bruce is smarter than that, and is very much aware of how shallow people are.

Most people don’t know that Batman is blind, however.  Catwoman is one of the notable people who know, and whenever she’s being playful, she likes to sneak up on him and surprise him.

The Justice League also know, but don’t treat him any differently because why would they?  Dr. Mid-Nite exists for one.

DICK

Dick lost his vision when Hayley’s Circus was set on fire.  While escaping, he was hit by debris and blinded.  By the time he’s a young adult, the scarring is pretty much gone.

In an effort to help out Dick, Bruce helped developed a device that could pinpoint noises.  Dick then proceeded to thank Bruce by using it to get into trouble and play hide-and-seek.

Bruce eventually stopped using Dick as a guinea pig, and offered up the tech to the public.  Dick still kept his, however; even when he left to join the Teen Titans.

Since Dick likes to drop several dozen feet off buildings, Bruce actually shed a few tears when Tim gave him more advanced echolocation tech.  Dick will never admit how many times he miscalculated because of rain.

Bruce has seen his hospital bills; he knows.

JASON

Jason was born blind, and since he was a street kid with not so great parents, had to learn to get around by himself.  He was pretty good at it too, and was stealing the Batmobile’s tires when Batman arrived.  Jason tried to beat him up, and he made a real good effort too.

Jason got used to using the tech after a while, though he prefers only using it for fighting.

When he came back to life, he ended up becoming better at hand-to-hand without the use of technology.  But he does use it for accuracy whenever he aims.

People have lied to Jason and told him he’s put his helmet on the wrong way around.  These same people have gotten said helmet pelted in the direction of their face.

TIM

Tim and Cassandra both have a degenerative eye disease.  When Tim found out Batman’s identity, he insisted that Bruce take him on because they weren’t too close from different.

Tim later ended up improving on Bruce’s tech, and even customized some for the others.

Tim eventually went completely blind, but he’s adjusted just fine.

His favorite thing to do is get carried by Kon for a flight.  That and doing a Dick Grayson and gliding off buildings.

Tim is very much still tech savvy, working off muscle memory and occasional assistance whenever he needs it.  Admittedly, it’s pretty rarely.  But you will never see him ask Barb or Steph for anything involving colors.

BATGIRLS

Barbara has monochrome colorblindness, and Bruce didn’t realize it until he realized she kept describing colors by how dark they were.  This led to a bunch of reminiscing about colors, and Dick even joined in to describe colors to her.

Whenever Bruce pisses her off, Barbara realigns things ever so slightly.  Bruce could care less, but Dick will trip over something and play it off like it was a stunt.

After her incident with Joker, Barbara took to the moniker of Oracle, and her colorblindness was hardly a hold back for her.

Cassandra did manage to retain some of her eyesight.  As it stands, she can see somewhat, but it’s all pretty blurry.  She wears glasses most of the time, but prefers fighting with the tech Tim designed.

Because they can’t use sign language with Cass, she had a rough time learning to fit in.  Eventually, they learned to communicate through morse code and occasional fingerspelling.

Even though Cass learned to speak, she still prefers morse code with her friends and family.

No one (except Barbara) actually realized what form of blindness Steph had until she asked Barbara if waffles were pink.  It turned out she had  Tritanopia.

Steph and Barbara tried out colorblindness glasses once and Barbara lost her shit.

“I THOUGHT THIS WAS PURPLE!”  “I don’t know what to tell you except that that’s 110% dark blue.”

Cass has to tell the other two which colors they’re looking at whenever they hang out.  Specifically when they start debating colors.

DUKE

Duke, like Jason, was also born blind.  He’s also the only one who uses a cane for when he walks.

Unlike the others, however, Duke doesn’t need to use any external devices to see; his powers work well with sound and allow him to move around just fine.  (I know his powers focus on light, which would require him to see, but I changed it slightly for this AU.)

Rather than ‘seeing’ in color/definition, Duke perceives shapes and figures in something like a bunch of different parts of sound altogether.

Duke has the ability to ‘steal the light’ out of people’s eyes, and temporarily blind them so they’re on the same playing field.

People typically know when Duke is coming because of the sound of his cane moving around.  But he once scared Bruce because he didn’t use it and Bruce didn’t hear him coming.

Duke is still a great writer, though he obviously writes in braille.  His teachers love him.

Some people don’t even realize Duke is blind unless they watch his eyes; they’re unfocused and occasionally ‘wander’.

DAMIAN

Damian lost his sight as a young child.  Talia was regretful, and put a lot of attention on Damian to help him.  Damian disliked the babying behavior, and felt as though Ra’s was disappointed in him.

Talia sent Damian to Bruce because she knew about how he had learned to adjust to his disability.

Damian was LIVID.  He hated everything, he would throw fits, and he hated every- oh hey is that a dog.

Damian got Titus, and over time, began to settle into the family.

Damian initially refused the echolocation tech, but took it because it was helpful for fighting.  Over time, he learned how to work with and without it.

Damian once offhandedly admitted to Jon that he couldn’t remember colors, and Jon sat with him for over an hour describing colors.  

Eventually, Damian started getting into abstract forms of art and presented them to everyone.  Since he couldn’t see what he drew, he took to 3D pieces for his family and friends.  No one even cares what they look like, they all love everything he makes.

Jason is jealous that Damian got a dog but he didn’t.

MISC

They keep playing hide-and-seek and Bruce is tired.

Except for Barbara and Steph, everyone is very sensitive to sound, and it is most definitely their biggest weakness.  Meanwhile, Barb and Steph keep getting blinded by flash bangs and other bright things.

Damian keeps sneaking animals into the house because he knows they won’t see it.  What he keeps forgetting is that roosters scream in the morning, and they can hear that.

In-family fighting is an absolutely insane event.  Things have been thrown and people have fallen down things that shouldn’t have been fallen down.  Dick once tried to pull apart a fight between Tim and Damian and he honestly can’t tell if he slapped Tim or if Damian did it.

They can all tell each others footsteps apart easily, and can even tell who’s arguing even if their in the Batcave and the argument is in the attic.

Someone keeps moving containers out of the typical places, and the finger pointing is always at optimal level.  Alfred is just as frustrated.

Bruce is tired.

They also save a lot on electricity!