Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Tim was having a bad day before he went out to take photos.

He woke up to the news that his parents decided to extend their work-trip until December. It was May.

Briefly Tim considered missing school, it was the last day after all, so there was no reason to be there. He glanced at his bag and decided against skipping. A couple of classes were having celebrations. So at the very least he would get some homemade cookies from the students whose parents were overachievers. With his mind made up, Tim grabbed his bag and began the long walk to the bus stop. 

The morning went surprisingly well. Exams had just finished, so every class was either a party or just a free period. Then Tim had gotten to English. 

And the teacher decided to ask what he was doing this summer. 

Tim choked on his water.

That was the worst reaction he could have given. The entire class watched as he scrambled to come up with some elaborate lie. 

Now, he–Tim Drake–was going to some faraway place the students in his class couldn’t pronounce to learn how to properly excavate artifacts. 

A few people in the class decided to bug him more about where he was going, so Tim just kept building on the lie. When everyone was satisfied, he snuck out his phone and marked down the days he should be ‘away,’ and would need to stay inside. ’

At the end of the day Tim went and took his pre-patrol power nap. After he woke up he gathered his supplies and checked the time. It was time to head out. 

~~~~~~~~~~

Batman's routes had gotten more erratic since Jason's death. Honestly, Tim didn’t think there was any pattern at all. For the past few months Tim had been relying on luck to get his photos. He could go weeks without seeing Batman, and then watch for a couple of nights in a row. 

Tonight, Tim had gotten lucky. Two nights ago he’d stumbled upon a drug ring and decided that tonight would be the night Batman would show up. His guess was proved correct around ten minutes later when Batman entered through the roof and started taking each dealer out one by one. 

It was impressive – and also terrifying. This was the most violent Tim had ever seen him.

Quietly Tim started taking photos as each person went down to the floor. The photos were unlike the ones he had taken years past. These photos were evidence. Evidence Tim would use if Batman truly crossed the line. 

Tim hoped the time wouldn’t come. 

As Batman faded into the shadows a thought struck Tim. Batman hadn’t called the GCPD, had he? The people below him would bleed out without medical attention. 

Hands shaking Tim brought out his phone to send a message. 

When he had first started sending tips to the police he had been anonymous. As time went on, Tim had decided to put a symbol of a soaring bird with each message. As time went on, and the tips were proven accurate, the police listened to them faster and more appropriately. 

A couple months ago Tim had found a backdoor in the tipping hotline. When he went inside, he had found a shortcut that put his tips up front. He wasn’t entirely sure if it was for him until he heard a few officers mentioning it in passing. 

Talking out his phone he quickly typed out a message on the tip-line. After double checking it could not be tracked he sent it. 

--Multiple drug dealers have been immobilized at [location] awaiting arrest. Immediate medical attention required for several. No further threats in the vicinity.--

Satisfied, Tim hid the phone back into his pocket. He had checked the date this morning. This was the night that he dreaded – but also desperately needed. 

Tonight was his monthly trip to Jason Todd’s grave.

~~~~~~~~~~

It was quiet – but that didn’t mean anything. Tim would have been more worried if there was someone here, especially now. Few people had good intentions of visiting graveyards at one in the morning. 

His footsteps were loud, echoing through the quiet of the cemetery. He always felt anxious visiting here. Unsure if he was welcomed.

Tim slowed down as he reached a beech tree planted in the ground. Underneath there was a grave marker. Black words bold against the stone. 

Looking down, Tim read the name for what felt like the thousandth time.

Jason Todd. 

Quirky he knelt down and stared at it.

Tim kneeled at the grave, trying to figure out what he should say. Should he tell Jason what he had seen? Would Jason have wanted to know? A noise broke him out of his thoughts. 

Was that a thump? 

Tim immediately jumped up, his heart pounding in his chest. No one knew he was here. If he got kidnapped, nobody would find him.

Looking over the area Tim saw nobody. But he had been positive there had been something there. 

The noise came again. This time a scraping sound. Tim froze, straining to pinpoint the noise. Then it hit him, the sound was coming from underneath him. 

It was coming from inside Jason Todd’s grave.

"What the heck".

Tim’s mind exploded with questions, but he knew there wasn’t time. Looking around he spotted a shovel. Without thinking he grabbed the shovel and started digging at the ground. Dirt flew in the sky until he hit something wooden and solid.

Throwing the shovel to the side Tim moved to open the lid. Before he could, it creaked open.

In the coffin Jason– Jason –slowly rose, staring at Tim with eyes wide and empty.

”Um” Tim started unsure of what to say “If you’re going to eat my brains could you just give me a heads-up?” Tim winced as soon as he said it. That was dumb .

After a long moment of no response Tim knelt down and offered a hand. Jason took it and the both scrambled out of the hole. 

“This is… wow” Tim let out a shaky breath “Bruce is going to be—”

Tim cut himself off, noticing Jason shaking beside him. Tim twitched nervously, what had he said? 

Both Tim and Jason stood quietly and gradually Jason calmed down. 

Tim had a sudden realization. “Oh” He breathed softly “You don't want to see him, do you?” 

The thought ripped at his heart. Jason was hurt because Batman hadn’t been fast enough.

Tim took a deep breath “You can stay with me if you want” The words came out without a second thought. “It wouldn’t be a problem, I have plenty of room.” 

He meant it. Tim had plenty of space, and his parents were out of the continent for several more months. It wouldn’t be an issue at all. 

Besides, this was Robin. Robin had helped Gotham more than anyone. This was the least Tim could do to repay him.

Jason didn’t say anything, but didn’t give any sign of not wanting to go. Taking this as a quiet agreement, Tim grasped Jason’s hand to help lead him back. 

Ready to start the walk back, he looked around at the piles of dirt.

He would probably need to erase some video footage later. 

But right now, he needed to get Jason somewhere safe.  

Chapter Text

Tim was staring at someone who was supposed to be dead. 

Last night, he had gone back home and helped Jason into a guest room. After he went and deleted all the footage from the graveyard the previous night. Tim then went to bed, expecting to wake up with some sort of drug induced headache.

But instead, he felt perfectly fine. Slowly realizing it might not have been a dream, Tim entered the guest room to see Jason–alive and breathing. 

Tim slowly moved out of the doorway, but wasn’t quiet enough. Jason shot up and looked around wildly. Trying to find the source of the noise.  

“Hey Jason.” Tim watched as Jason zeroed in on his voice “You’re at Drake Manor, I’m your neighbor.” 

He watched as Jason relaxed slightly. 

Tim continued, trying to make the conversation seem normal.  “Um… can I offer you some food?”  

Silently, Jason stood up out of the bed and walked over towards Tim. 

Tim, slightly unsettled, spoke “Alright then, let’s go.” 

Tim led the way to the kitchen, Jason trailing behind him not making a sound. Tim couldn’t even hear his footsteps. 

“You can sit on the chairs by the island if you want.” Tim looked into the fridge as he heard a chair scrape on the ground.

Tim reached inside the fridge and grabbed a tin of waffles. “I have some waffles from a few days ago I can toast.” Hearing no obvious objection, he opened the tin and placed the waffles in the toaster.

“Those will take about five minutes.” Tim said, reaching up for plates “Do you want some grapes?” Tim asked, not expecting an answer. 

Hearing a noise he turned. Jason was shaking his head just slightly. Tim couldn’t help but smile at the sign of life. 

“What about a banana?” Tim asked, holding the banana up in the air. Jason stopped shaking his head “Alrighty then.” Tim grinned. 

Tim set out the plates, and peeled and cut the banana. Just after he finished pouring the water the waffles popped up. Tim put them on the plates. The routing was comforting, as it felt normal, it gave Tim a sense of control. 

“Do you need any help…?” Tim started, but cut himself off when Jason started eating. Tim was grateful Jason didn’t need his help eating; Tim didn’t even know where to start with that. 

Tim joined Jason on the island and started eating with him. Both of them sat in silence. Tim finished first and watched as Jason continued to eat. Some of the banana fell on Jason.

He was still in the suit. Jason still had the same clothes he had been buried in. 

“I’m so sorry!” Tim’s voice was full of concern, and his face was burning in shame. Jason turned to look at him “I’m sure I have a change of clothes somewhere.” 

Jason looked down, and Tim thought he saw Jason’s face darken slightly. 

“You want to change now?”

Jason stood up, leaving the plate on the counter. Quietly they both walked back up to Tim’s room. 

Tim dug a little in his closet and found some clothes that his parents had gotten him for his birthday. They were still a few sizes too big for him, but they should fit Jason perfectly. For a moment he just stared at the clothes in his arms. He wasn’t quite sure how he was going to do this. Taking care of a person was not something he had ever learned how to do. 

Blinking out of his thoughts, he handed the clothes to Jason, wondering how he would put them on. To Tim’s surprise Jason immediately started to change. Tim, startled and blushing, and quickly excited the room. 

Tim knew Jason wasn’t Robin right now, but it didn’t change the fact that Tim’s mind found it difficult to separate them. Honestly, he was always surprised when he managed to keep it together at galas. But right now, Jason was different. He wasn’t Robin, but he also wasn’t Tim’s next door neighbor either. 

Tim’s thoughts stopped for a second. Ruining his previous train of thought. 

Robin was in his room. Tim’s eyes widened. The previously dead Robin was just standing in Tim’s room. How was this even possible?  

Tim shook his head, trying to clear the new thoughts. He knew he shouldn’t be thinking about Jason as Robin. Jason had just gone through something Tim didn’t think anyone would understand. Putting him on a pedestal wouldn’t help. 

TIm had watched Jason dig out of his grave–and he was keeping it from Bruce. Jason’s fathe r.

Tim knew he should probably go to Bruce. They would get Jason the help he needed, but the way Jason got nervous when Tim mentioned Bruce. Tim didn’t want Jason to feel that scared again. 

Deciding he gave Jason enough time Tim entered the room and saw Jason sitting quietly on the bed. 

“Are you tired?” Tim asked. Which, of course, Jason didn’t answer.

Okay, Tim had this. How to put a possible zombie to bed?

An idea struck him: “I’ll be right back!” Running through his house Tim skidded into the library. 

Looking on the shelves he saw what he was looking for. Pride and Prejudice Tim remembered a day he saw Robin nagging Batman to get this book. So Jason probably liked it. 

Grabbing the book Tim ran back to the room where Jason was still sitting. Holding the book up triumphantly, Tim spoke “Would you be okay with me reading aloud to you?”

Jason looked at Tim and quietly slid over, leaving a space for Tim to sit. Tim joined him on the bed.

“Alright let's begin”, Tim took a deep breath “It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man…”

~~~~~~~

About an hour later Tim looked down at Jason. He hadn’t even realized Jason had fallen asleep. The book was better than expected–he never really read the book for English class, or any book for English class for that matter, just the Sparknotes–maybe he should start.

Smiling, Tim slowly moved off, the bed carefully making sure Jason didn’t wake, and went to his desk. He wanted to let Jason nap, but TIm wasn’t that tired. 

Looking at his laptop, Tim saw he had a notification. It was from something he set up to notify him of any news from the Wayne’s or vigilante sightings. Tim clicked on the article, and his heart stopped.

Jason Todd-Wayne’s Grave Found in Shambles

Tim was feeling very lucky he erased the footage last night.

He couldn’t imagine how Batman would react the next few days.

 It would be bad, so Tim was stuck at home. He knew his limits, and escaping the attention of a grief-ridden Batman was not something Tim felt confident in doing.

Tim glanced at Jason, still asleep on the bed, and whispered “Looks like you’ll be stuck with me for a while”  

It may have been greedy, but Tim was glad there was another person in the house. Despite Jason not saying anything, it made the manor seem slightly less lonely. 

Tim plugged in a USB into his laptop and opened his photos. He knew he had to be ready for what might come. Opening his folders he got to work. 

Chapter Text

Tim opened the door to Drake Manor with a grin, and sang. “I’m hooooooome!” He heard the steps creak and saw Jason walking down with a slight smile on his face.

It had been just over a month since he had found Jason in the cemetery. He had been making some progress–like right now: Jason was smiling. He had yet to speak, but Tim could feel they were getting close. 

Walking  into the kitchen, Tim started to unload the bags of groceries he had gotten at the store. Last week, his parents had stopped paying people to drop off groceries. He had to do it himself now, and every time he thought about it, he felt proud. 

But Jason had frowned when he got that call. 

Either way, the trips to the grocery store did show something else: Tim could leave Jason alone for long periods of time without worrying. Or at least knowing Jason wouldn't get himself hurt. 

Recently, Tim had been watching the news. Reports of people beaten half to death had been coming up daily. The police thought it was a new Rouge, someone going the wrong way to do==good things. But Tim could see the signs. This was Batman's work. And each time a report came on, Tim could see Batman’s slip getting closer and closer. 

The second time a report had come, he went and looked at his photos. None of them could link the crimes to Batman. 

Tim knew what he had to do. 

Putting the last of the fruit away, Tim glanced at Jason “Hey? Can we talk?”

Jason looked at him for a moment, and gave a slight nod. They both walked to the living room and sat down. 

“I don’t know if you’ve been watching the news.” Jason’s face darkened, and Tim realized he recognized the attacker too.  “Okay… that makes this a little easier.”

Tim took a deep breath in “I’m going out tonight.”

Jason's face crumpled, his gaze full of sadness.

“I know it’s dangerous.” Tim added, desperate for Jason to understand “but I need the photos… just in case.”

They both sat in silence for a moment. The unspoken words feeling like weights. Then Jason stood up and walked away. Tim’s heart shattered inside his chest. He looked at the ground and kicked the couch in frustration. After a few minutes, he stood up and went into his room. 

He could hear Jaosn moving in the kitchen. Early on, Tim had learned Jason loved to cook, especially when he was stressed. Tim didn’t ever complain, Jason’s food was amazing, even if Jason required supervision when dealing with any hot surface. 

Jason always frowned when Tim reminded him of this fact, which always made Tim smile. Sometimes he wondered if this was what having a brother felt like. He always had to throw the fact out of his mind. Knowing when Jason was better he would go back to Wayne Manor. 

Heading up into his room, Tim grabbed his bag and camera. His gaze lingers on the domino mask he had found online. Thinking quietly for a moment, he grabbed it and slipped it into his front pocket. 

Batman was unstable right now. And we would rather not get Tim Drake , who was Bruce Wayne’s neighbor, caught up in all of this. 

Checking the time, Tim knew it was time to go. 

Walking down to the door, Tim grabbed his shoe and heard footsteps behind him. Standing a few paces behind him was Jason, still looking sad. 

“I’m sorry, Jason” Tim’s voice was quiet “But I have to do this, I promise to be safe.” 

Jason looked at him for a long moment, then offered him a bag. Tim looked down at the sandwich in his arms. 

“Oh.” Tim managed a sad smile “Thank you. I promise to eat it.” 

Jason nodded at his words and Tim’s smile grew a little more genuine.

Opening the door he looked at Jason one last time. “I’ll see you later.” 

The door shut behind him.

~~~~~~~~~~

Tim was taking a break on the rooftops and munching on the sandwich Jason had made him, then a scream cut through the silence of the night. Quickly gathering up his stuff, he jumped across the rooftops. The wind howled through his ears. 

Following the screaming, Tim found himself landing lightly on a roof. Where Batman was cornering a man, prepared to attack. Tim moved down a fire escape, crouched, and got his camera ready. 

Batman approached the man who started begging

“Please… please it was only a purse.” The man fell to his knees “My family… please”

Tim felt his stomach roll violently as he watched the scene before him. The purse obviously belonged to someone wealthy, and the man seemed like he needed the money. 

This was a man in need, and Tim was just watching. Quickly he took a picture of the thief, and vowed to track him down, and offer help, later. It was the least he could do after witnessing this.

Then Batman attacked. 

It was brutal. The attack was fueled with a rage Tim had never seen. Batman was furious, every blow violent, holding nothing back. Soon, the Dark Knights fists were bloody, and the thief-no victim - was lying in a pool of his own blood. 

Tim felt sick. The sandwich rolled in his stomach. 

I should've stayed with Jason. I knew this was dangerous. What was I thinking?

Panicked, Tim was ready to make his escape. He slowly moved to climb back up the fire escape, 

And slipped. 

A rock clattered into the alley, and Batman turned his face towards the shadows that hid Tim, the white eyes narrowing threateningly. 

Tim’s heart raced. He should have never agreed to come out here. What if Batman attacked him? Who would help Jason? Would anyone even look for his body?

Suddenly a batarang whizzed past his head. Grazing it slightly. 

“Show yourself.” 

It was obviously a warning shot. The wound hurt, and Tim could feel the blood starting to form, but it hadn’t done more than leave a scratch, and possibly a scar. 

Tim stepped out into the light, head down. Preparing for the worst he braced himself. 

For a few moments all was silence. 

Finally Batman broke the quiet. 

“You're bleeding.” 

Tim suppressed a snort “And you're covered in blood, besides I’ve had way worse than this.” 

Oops . He hadn't meant for that to come out. If anyone asked, Tim would blame the shock. 

Then Batman flinched back, seemingly ashamed. 

“Would you like a bandage?” 

Tim just stared at Batman, mouth slightly open. Attempting to allow his brain to catch up with the situation. 

It took a moment, but Tim realized what was happening. He was a kid. Batman never intentionally hurt kids. For a moment he allowed the relief to wash over him, but it was quickly replaced by anger. 

“Maybe you should give it to him first.” Tim gestured over at the broken body in the alley. He could still see breathing. Thank God. 

“Hn” Tim heard the grunt and glared at Batman. 

“You know, even if you call the police they won’t make it in time to save him.” Tim took a deep breath, inside he was shaking but his voice came out calmly. “I thought Batman didn’t kill.”

Batman looked between Tim and the man for a moment and sighed. “Stay here.” 

Tim watched for a moment as Batman started to apply first aid. 

He took out his phone and sent out a message to the GCPD. They would be here soon, no matter if Batman reported or not.

Tim watched as the older man stepped away from the body and turned to him. He waved the phone up where the message was shown with his soaring bird insignia. 

“The GCPD has been contacted.” Tim said, smirking. 

Tim couldn’t help but feel satisfaction as Batman’s face lit up in realization. “You’re the Soaring Bird.”

“Wait–Hold on.” Tim died a little on the inside. “ That’s what they call me? The Soaring Bird ? They really couldn’t have come up with something more creative?”

Batman ignored him “How old are you?”

Tim had never been more grateful for his mask. “Old enough to know that you’ve slipped Batman .  You almost murdered a man tonight, and then attacked me.”

Tim could tell it hit a nerve. 

Tim was certain Batman knew how to take that shot. But Batman didn’t know that Tim knew that. He could see Batman’s posture tense slightly, showing the man's discomfort. 

“What do you have?” 

Tim was a little annoyed Batman tried to steer the conversation away. He was about to point this out when an idea caught his attention. 

“A camera.”

“For what?”

“Come and see.”

Tim opened the camera app and quickly navigated to a specific folder. When opened, he showed Batman the photos of his brutal fights. Each getting worse and worse as time moved on from Jason’s death. He could Batman's breath quicken beside him. 

“What are you planning on doing with these?” 

Tim looked up at the sky for a moment and gave a quiet sigh. “I’m not sure yet.” 

Voicing the thoughts that had been playing in his head felt freeing “I haven't seen you cross the line yet, but…” Tim let the silence scratch, allowing it to speak for itself.

With a heavy sigh, Tim walked closer to the stairs on the fire escape.

 “I know you miss Robin.” Tim began, and Batman tensed “But he’s not coming back.” 

Lie

  “You need to stop doing… this.” Tim gestured at the body. 

Batman remained silent, but didn’t try to stop him. Tim took a step up the stairs. “Until next time, I guess.”

Making it up to the roof, Tim took in the sight of bandages, a purple lollipop, and a small back sticker awaiting him. Tim smiled slightly and shook his head. Looking around, he saw no sign of Batman, and he heard sirens in the distance. 

Taking the bandage, Tim wrapped the scratch around his head to the best of his ability. Then laid back on the roof, squeezing his eyes shut. 

That had been insane. He had just talked to Batman. The Batman. Sure it was awkward and painful, but maybe–just maybe–he had made some sort of difference.

Slowly he opened his eyes. 

Someone was watching him. Years of going out made him sensitive to a person's unwanted gaze. The hairs on the back of his neck prickled. 

Quickly turing, he spotted a figure cloaked in black on the roof across from him. Not the same body shape as Batman, or any of the other vigilantes he knew. 

Tim blinked and the figure was gone, something in his stomach twisted unpleasantly.

Deciding to end the night now, Tim took the long way back to Drake Manor, constantly checking to make sure no one was following him. 

Soon he was in his driveway. Looking over his shoulder one more time he stepped into the house. 

And was greeted by Jason, sitting on the ottoman in the entryway, looking up at him. When Tim stepped inside Jason charged at him, enveloping him in a hug. 

Tim froze, confused. He knew there was a large amount of trust between the two of them, but he didn’t think that they were in the hugging phase yet. A voice broke him out of his thoughts.

Jason’s voice broke him out of his thoughts.

“Tim” The voice was quiet and crackly, but it marked the first time he had heard Jason speak since his death. 

“You spoke!” Tim grinned widely  “That’s incredible! I’m so happy, and proud, and…”

Tim's joy evaporated when he saw Jason’s expression. The joy was replaced by worry in an instant. Jason looked terrified. “What’s wrong?” Tim asked cautiously.

Jason met his eyes then released the hug, but still gripping Tim’s hand tightly. Jason dragged him up to his bedroom and opened the laptop.

For a moment, Tim was confused. There was no way Jason could have guessed his password, to find something in there. But then, Tim saw it: on the lock-screen there was an alert, posted five minutes after Batman had left him on the roof. 

Dread filled Tim’s stomach. The Joker had escaped Arkham. 

Chapter Text

One week.

It has been one week since the Joker broke out, and Jason hasn't calmed down.

It felt like Tim had tried everything. He’d let Jason sit quietly, not making a sound. Then try to make the loudest racket possible. But Jason hadn’t calmed down at all. 

More often than not. Tim would find himself locked in a room with Jason, the TV on, both of them under a blanket. Sometimes watching the news led to something good. On a report on Sunday both Tim and Jason saw Nightwing had come to Gotham after the Joker had arrived. After his arrival, the attacks on civilians stopped. 

He wondered if the GCPD figured it out, or if they thought the rogue had gotten killed somehow.

Though Tim had to admit, seeing Batman in that alley had broken a little bit of his trust. He knew the Dark Knight was there to spread justice, but that body had given him nightmares. 

The TV made a sudden crackling noise and Jason tensed. The two boys looked over at the now static screen. Both stared at it, waiting for what was coming. 

Thirty seconds passed. Tim could feel this wasn’t natural. Everyone's eyes would be on the screen right now.  

It flickered one final time. 

The Joker's face was there. Grinning so wide it would make anyone else bleed.

 Jason backed up and slammed against the wall. 

Tim heard the Joker start talking. “Well.. well–” but his voice was suddenly cut off. Tim turned and saw Jason holding the remote, muting him. 

“Jason” Tim tried to sound non-threatening “It’s okay to turn it off.”

Jason looked at him, seeming like he was staring into his soul. “No.”

Tim heard the word. The word Tim had been hearing most from Jason lately. He knew Jason was trying to be brave… but. Tim let out a sigh and moved next to Jason, where he got crushed in a hug. 

They both watched as the Joker spoke, muted. He then broke out into laughs. It made Tim’s skin crawl even though the laughter was silent. Then Joker moved aside. Tim could hear Jason echoing his horrified sound. 

The Joker had hostages. 

Two parents and one kid. All three had dark brown skin and dark brown hair. The man was already covered in blood. The woman passed out cold. But the kid was wide awake and his eyes–wide and terrified–seemed to meet Tim’s through the screen.

Tim immediately saw a marking on the back of the warehouse. He'd been there before. He knew where that was. 

He yanked out his phone and sent a message to the tip line. 

Message Not Sent. Number Blocked

The message blinked at Tim, taunting him. Why wouldn’t it send? Then it hit him: Batman, Tim had shown Batman he was a kid sending tips to the tipline. Of course they would have immediately shut him down. 

Cursing under his breath he looked over at Jason who was sitting quietly. 

Tim hugged Jason tighter. Slowly, Jason brought up the remote and shut off the TV. Both sat in silence for a moment before Tim sat up. 

“Jason, I know this is bad but… I know where they are.” 

Tim saw Jason shift nervously, as if knowing where Tim was going.

 “They shut off the tip line. I have to help.”

Jason stared at him for a moment. “No.” 

“You can’t…” Tim stumbled over his words. “That family could die. What if they don’t find the warehouse in time?” He took a breath, preparing to make a low blow. “Like you.” 

Jason flinched. “I’m sorry. But I have to.” . 

Blue eyes met Tim’s own. “I know… stay safe.” 

Each word sounded broken and jumbled. But it was the most Tim had ever heard Jason say. 

Taking a deep breath Tim ran and grabbed his stuff, already putting the domino mask on. 

Rushing out of the house, he got one more hug from Jason and took off. Ready to make his way towards Gotham. 

It had taken a half hour for Tim to get to the warehouse. 

As soon as he had gotten far enough away from Drake Manor, he called a cab. Of course one had come, it was Gotham. It took him about a mile from the warehouse, and Tim sprinted the rest of the way there. 

Tim climbed up the side of the warehouse and found the ventilation system. He had been in enough warehouses to know roughly where each had an opening. 

Briefly, Tim paused and wondered what that said about his life. 

Opening the panel, he crawled into the system, and pulled a flashlight from his bag. On his knees he navigated through the system, the sound of laughter became louder. He kept making twists and turns until he was at an end; an exit being the only way forward. 

Slowly he opened the hatch, and found himself in the room the hostages were being held in. Joker and two of his men standing next to them. In the support beams Tim started finding all possible exits. 

Laughing broke him out of his calculations. 

Joker was pacing below, seeking restless. The two other men in the warehouse watched him nervously. 

Tim watched as Joker whirled around and glared at the men. “This is getting boring. Get the venom.”

The two men took off through a door. 

“Hello there kiddo. I can see you wide awake.” Tim shuddered at the voice. “Don’t worry you’ll be the last to laugh.” The Joker chuckled, “I’m sure Batsy would love to see you smile.”

Tim could see the fear in the kids' dark eyes. The kid was struggling against the chains, looking at his parents for help. He was so focused he didn’t hear the person behind him until they were right on him.

There was a tap on his shoulder and Tim jolted, his grip slipping from the beam. The ground disappeared from beneath him, and he knew he was falling. 

Right towards the Joker. 

In that terrifying moment someone grabbed his arm. He felt himself getting pulled back up, and managed to regain purchase on the metal bar. 

When he got high enough he met blue eyes. Everything else was covered in black clothing. The person even wearing a full face to cover the rest of their features. 

For a moment Tim thought it was Jason. But the eyes were too bright, and even with all the clothes the person was much smaller. 

Tim made a quiet gasp “I saw you.” making sure he kept his voice quiet. “You were watching me the night Joker broke out.”

The person didn’t respond verbally, but gave a slight nod. The figure began to pull him towards an exit, but Tim shook his head and gestured to the hostages. 

Both were distracted when the two henchmen ran back in with a case. 

The Joker slowly opened it, and inside were three syringes, each complete with a glowing green liquid inside. 

Tim’s heart sank as he watched the Joker inspect each vial carefully.

The Joker turned to the kid who was still struggling in fear. “It seems the great protector of this city isn’t here yet.” He tossed the vial in the air. “Why don’t we have a little fun?” 

With a sickening grin the Joker plunged the syringe into the man's arm and pressed down. 

For a moment everything was eerily silent. Then the man jerked violently. Laughter poured out of him, causing his body to heave. His movement became erratic and his eyes twitched violently. The laughter became more hysterical as the venom took hold. 

Whoever that man had once been had been replaced by some sort of mad creature. One that had no idea what they were doing. 

The mother had been woken up and was staring at her husband in horror. The kid was struggling in his chains, tears pouring down his face. 

The Joker laughed along with the man, then turned his eyes over to the remaining two. The woman twitched violently at the laughter. 

“Don’t you worry sweetheart.” The voice was laced with “You’re next” 

Without hesitation the Joker plunged the syringe into the woman's arm. Her body went rigid, and then–like her husband–the laughter took hold. 

Tim looked around and grabbed a sharp wire that was near him. His mind raced as he came up with a plan. He tried to ignore the way his heart was pounding. 

“Listen” Tim whispered, voice low “That is someone who needs help. I’m going to help them.”

The figure released him and looked at him up and down, assessing him. They then nodded and started to follow him down to the ground. 

As they hit the ground Tim finished his plan. Handing the figure the wire he gestured to the ropes around the hostages. 

“Okay. I’ll distract Joker for long enough for you to get him out. Leave the adults for now, we can’t help them. Besides, Joker will want them unharmed–mostly– for Batman. 

The figure looked at him one last time and nodded. Clearly understanding the objective. 

“Alright.” Tim took a deep breath. “Let's do this.”

Tim's heart quickened as he ran through the shadows of the warehouse. Getting as far away from Joker as possible. He took a deep breath and stepped into the light. 

“Hey clown-head.” Tim called out, voice breaking through the laughter” Your jokes suck!”

The Joker snapped his head towards Tim and met his eyes. For a moment the gaze was calculating, taking in every detail. Then madness clouded over.

“Well, well, well. Who do we have here?” The Joker’s voice was full of mockery. “Is it a new little birdy?” 

Tim became hyper aware of the domino mask on his face. 

The Joker sneered “No matter. We’ll have fun anyway.” 

Tim heard a noise, and in the corner of his eye he saw the figure moving in to cut free the kid. Then the two henchmen lunged at Tim, and he took off in a sprint. 

The Joker's maniacal laughing followed Tim as he ran. He didn’t know if the kid was free yet, but he was afraid to look back. Luckily, he had some experience in running as he chased Batman and Robin. So he was faster, but Tim didn’t know for how long. 

Tim vaulted over crates, making sure to keep the Joker in his vision at all times. Hoping he could distract him for long enough.

Hearing a scraping sound coming from the hostages ' direction, Tim risked a glance over. There the mysterious person was supporting the kid as they slowly made the way for a door. 

The Joker had heard it too. 

“Oh! More players. How fun.” The Joker mocked, glee filling his voice. 

Tim reached the pair just as Joker made his first move, launching himself at the previous hostage, who still seemed to be dazed. 

The mysterious figure immediately redirected the attack, causing it to hit Joker's own henchmen instead. 

Tim stared open-mouthed as he watched the person take on the Joke in front of him. Whoever this person was, they weren’t an amaetur. 

But Joker wasn’t done. He wiped the blood off his face and took a second strike. The person easily dodged the blow. But another fist headed straight towards Tim. 

Tim braced for impact, but the figure jumped in front of him. Taking the blow for themselves. They fell to the ground, clearly injured and dazed. The Joker stepped back, grinning madly at his fallen enemy. 

Not missing a beat, the Joker produced the third syringe. Holding it up as the liquid inside glowed from the fluorescent lights. 

Tim put himself in front of his fallen companion. It was his fault they were in this mess, they didn’t deserve this. With a sudden rush of adrenaline, Tim glared the Joker down.

 “This one’s for the new little birdy.” The Joker lifted the syringe, prepared to strike. 

Then a whizzing noise. 

And the vial shattered.  

The Joker took a step back surprised, and Tim looked at the source with a feeling of disbelief.

In front of him, a familiar black and blue costume had landed. Shielding the three of them from the Joker.  

Nightwing. 

“Hey there Joker.” Nightwing grinned, his voice laced with confidence Threatening innocent kids again?” 

“Of course little birdy, I just wanted to have some more fun.” The Joker’s grin turned cruel “I got a little bored after killing just one masked sidekick.”

Nightwing’s cheerful demeanor vanished, and he growled “You’re going to regret that.”

With a snarl Nightwing charged the Joker and both were lost in a flurry of movement.

Looking down Tim saw the figure start getting up and supporting the hostage. 

Tim began to join, but looked across the room and met Batman’s eyes. 

Slowly, Tim twisted his hand into a phone shape and put it to his ear. Glaring the Dark Knight down.

For a brief moment the Bat loomed ashamed. 

Good. 

Tim turned back to the figure and helped grab the other side of the hostage.

There was a noise and Tim saw the Joker prepared to let out chemicals. Sharing a look, Tim and the other person grabbed the kid and ran out of the warehouse. 

Tim’s muscles burned by the time they were a safe distance from the warehouse. The Joker’s laughter had grown quieter, until it was silent. Tenison was still gripping at Tim’s chest as they made it up onto a roof. 

Tim stood awkwardly. “Umm.. Thank you for your help. I really appreciate it.” Tim tried to put some gratitude in the statement. 

The figure didn’t reply. Instead they stepped forward and gave Tim a short but tight hug. 

For a second Tim froze, unsure how to react. But then the figure backed up and jumped onto the next roof. Slowly vanishing into the night. 

“Who was that?” A voice shook Tim out of his thoughts, and he looked over at the prior hostage. 

“Honestly. I have no idea.” That seemed to surprise the kid. Then he realized he could probably stop calling the kid ‘kid’. Or ‘hostage’ for that matter.  

They seemed about the same age anyway. “What’s your name?”

He regarded Tim for a second before answering “Duke. Duke Thomas. What about you?”

“Tim Drake”

“Aren't you famous?”

That startled a laugh out of Tim. “Yeah. Just a little.”

Both of them got quiet for a moment. Then Duke spoke. “My parents… they… I.”

Tim bit his lip, unsure of what to say. “Don’t worry, I saw Batman cutting them out, I’m sure they're on the way to the hospital now.”

Duke seemed to relax a little, then tensed again. “No one is cured from the Joker. Ever.” The words were strained, like it took every effort to force them out of his mouth. “They’re gone… I don’t… there’s no one else.” 

Tim was quiet for a moment then made a decision. “You can stay with me. I have plenty of space.” What was one more person in Drake Manor anyways? Tim already had an undead Robin, why not a previous Joker victim?

“What about your parents” Duke sniffed

Tim smiled, more grateful for his parents business trips than ever before “They go on a lot of work trips. I could totally hide you from them. They’re in Africa until Christmas!”

Duke looked at him for a long moment, considering the options “Alright, if you’re sure.”

Tim offered his hand and Duke grabbed it without hesitation. In the distance he could see the moon starting to get low in the sky. Jason would be worried. 

Slowly the two walked towards a street, where they caught a taxi over to Bristol. The driver said nothing about the state they were in, even though they were probably covered in dirt and blood. 

Tim made sure to leave a large tip. 

Entering the house Tim was charged at by Jason. Duke let out a squeak at the sudden presence. Jason, alerted, turned to look at Duke, and finally took in the state of their clothes. 

“Not safe.” The voice was tinged with worry, and Tim felt guilt wash over him.

“I’m sorry.”

Jason then noticed Duke and his gaze turned accusatory. 

For a moment the two started each other down, Tim watching awkwardly. 

Duke broke first. “Tim, who is this?”

“This is Jason, he’s my cousin.” A small amount of hesitation as he came up with a cover story. “He had a run in with the Joker as well”

The hostility from Jason was gone, as the two regarded each other in a new light. The air was still.. 

Jason broke the tension first. “Hug?”

Duke slammed into Jason and started crying, finally allowing himself to break. Right now they had each other, someone who had a semblance of understanding. For now it would be enough. 

Tim excused himself, feeling like he didn’t belong in this moment, 

Going up into his room he started setting up another bed–taking a guess Duke wouldn’t want to sleep alone right now. Sitting on the bed Tim couldn’t help but replay the day. 

Thoughts swirled through his brain. About the mysterious person, Duke’s parents, and Joker's horrible laugh. 

But, as footsteps approached, Tim stashed those thoughts away. He has people who need him. Right now, that is what he would focus on. 

Chapter Text

Before anything went any further, Duke would like to make it clear that everything about this situation was insane. 

Completely insane. 

First he had gotten captured by the Joker. Watched his parents get tortured–Duke shuddered slightly. And then, for some unknown reason Tim Drake and some random person go up against the Joker and save his sanity. 

And now, here he was, currently eating breakfast in one of the most expensive houses in Gotham.

He wanted to scream. 

“So” Tim, the freakin’ child genius, begins “How’d you sleep?”

“You’re kidding, right?”

Duke looks over and sees Jason nodding. See? Even Jason agrees that question was stupid.

“That’s a good point.” Tim looked down and started eating again. 

The silence was deafening 

“Alright. I’m just gonna say it.” Both Jason and Tim looked at him, “This has to be the most painful breakfast I've ever had.”

He saw Tim’s lip twitch and got a snort from Jason.

“Want to talk?”

Duke glanced at Jason for a moment. Talk about what? Didn’t they already try small talk? Duke remembers. It ended painfully. Also, it had been like, ten seconds ago.

Then Tim froze. “Like… emotions?”

And Duke started laughing. Both the boys stare at him in confusion for a moment. 

Between breaths, he managed to explain “You said emotions” He wheezed slightly “Like you learned you gained some sort of incurable disease.”

Then both Jason and Tim look him in the eyes and nod solemnly. 

Duke wheezed again “ Oh my God”

After a moment, he composed himself, he continued “Alright, no emotions.” He held back another laugh as the two relaxed. “But can I ask a question?”

Tim nods.

“Why exactly were you at the warehouse?”

Jason also turns on Tim “Yeah. Why Tim.” 

Tim makes a betrayed look at Jason “ You know why.” He turns to Duke “I knew where the warehouse was, and Batman locked me out of the tip line.”

After that Tim paused for a moment and glanced at Jason, and smiled for some reason. 

For a moment Duke just processes “Okay, so many questions. One, why did Batman lock you out of the tipline?”

Jason seems to be torn between smiling with glee at Tim and seeming nervous at the mention of Batman. Maybe the two had a history.

“Ikindatakepicturesofthem.”

Before Duke tries to figure out what that meant, Jason saved him “Slow.”

“I take pictures of the Bats. And sometimes I solve the cases I find.”

Duke was calling it. Tiny. Batman. 

“That’s really impressive.” 

Tim started blushing, and Jason sent him a glare that seemed to cut through his bones.Duke thought about his choices: to encourage the behavior or not. To get Tim blushing, or not get Jason glares.

“Thanks.” Tim was still blushing.

“Another question.” 

“Hit me.”

“You really didn’t know the other person there?”

Jason tensed “Other person?” 

Tim spoke quickly, sounding both excited and nervous “There was another person there. They managed to hold back the Joker. The Joker.”

Duke could feel himself tense at the name. A nauseous feeling in his stomach. Beside him he felt Jason do the same. Tim was right–they did share some sort of experience. 

“Oh, sorry about that.” 

Duke, quick to reassure, spoke “It might not be fine, but it will get better. Maybe not soon, but eventually.”

Never immediately, but everything fades with time. 

He couldn’t even think what would happen if not.

Jason looked at him again, and almost relaxed at the words. He could see Tim thinking about the words as well, as if deciding if they were something to think of. 

He hadn’t meant to give out some random philosophy, but whatever works. 

After a moment Jason redirected the conversation “Were they good?”

Duke thought about it. From what he remembered, the person had helped them. They had risked their life to save them. They had to be at least somewhat good. 

“I’m not sure.” Tim answered Jason first “They helped us, and they could have left, but they stayed. And no matter how much I think about it, there was nothing they could have gained from that situation.”

Duke was surprised at how much thought Tim had put into this. 

Jason seemed satisfied by this answer and nodded. Then he glanced over at the clock. “News.”

Surprised at how much time this had taken the three ran into one of the living rooms. 

Because there were multiple living rooms. 

Turning on the TV the three waited to see the news. The weather report was just finishing up. Cloudy with poor air quality. Honestly, he wasn’t sure who even watched Gotham weather anymore. It was always the same.

Then the news came on. And the bad news kept coming. 

The Joker had evaded capture, managing to threaten Duke’s parents.

His parents weren’t given the cure fast enough. As far as they knew the condition was permanent. 

And as icing on the rotting, burning, poisoned–Duke took a breath–cake. He was now on the missing person list. High priority, being a possible Joker victim. 

He didn’t know how to feel. It felt numb. Just numb.    

“...Duke. Hey, Duke.” At his name Duke snapped back into reality.

The voice coming out of his mouth didn’t sound like his own. “Yeah?”

“Can we give you a hug?” It took him a moment to hear the meaning of the words. Then he nodded.

Slowly he regained feeling and managed to focus on the two beside him. 

“I’m a fugitive.”

It doesn’t sound real. It sounds bad.

“No” Jason looks at him, eyes hardening “You're missing.”

“Jason's right, you’ve done nothing bad.”

Duke looks down, breaking eye contact “I’m still being searched for, I won't be able to visit my 

parents.”

Tim grins, wide and sharp. “Don’t worry. We escaped the warehouse, How hard can sneaking into a hospital be?”

“Not yet. Rest first.”

Duke manages a small smile at Jason “Thank you.”

“Yeah!” Tomorrow we can do some fun stuff, like an amusement park or going to the arcade.”

Despite everything Duke feels himself grinning. “Alright, that sounds fun.”

“Oh. And Duke” Tim begins “I know with your identity being looked for, it will be hard to do some things” 

Duke paused. He hadn’t even thought of that. He wouldn’t be able to leave the house, let alone go to school.

“But I think I could make you a fake identity, You could even join me at school!”

“Oracle proof?” Jason asked

Tim smiles “probably not, but I can try!”

Duke decided to ask about that later. Weighing the pros and cons. It could get him in a lot of trouble, but it could be a risk worth taking.

As if sensing his indecision, Tim smiled “You can decide later.”

“Yeah. Okay. I think I just need some time.”

Tim’s smile turned into a grin “Now, what are our plans for tomorrow?”

~~~~~~~~~~

“That had to be the longest bus ride ever” Duke dramatically groaned, as he stretched his back. 

Tim gave him an annoyed look “Would you rather stay in Gotham?”

Jason shot a glare at him “Death trap” 

“Jeez, I was just making a comment.” Duke raised his hands in surrender, but smiled all the same. 

Duke understood the danger of Gothams singular theme park well. Even if the park wasn’t being attacked by a rogue, the sheer number of safety regulations it broke had to be record setting. That’s why they spent the night in a bus, escaping New Jerseys border, and hopefully Gothams bad luck.

They were now standing outside the ticket line donning some awesome disguises. 

Which, for some reason, Tim had an entire closet of. 

Duke thought it had been strange, but Jason hadn’t even blacked when the closet opened. 

Rich people were weird.

Both Jason and Duke were wearing wigs–Jason’s was light brown, Duke’s was an ash brown close to grey.  They’d also both put in colored contacts. Duke loved his dark blue ones, and thought they looked cool. 

Tim had chosen a dark green for Jason, they seemed to almost glow when they caught in the light. 

Tim had gone easy on his disguise. Only styling his hair differently and wearing some sunglasses. All three of them had clothes they bought outside of Gotham, just in case.

Even if someone from here knew the faces of them, they probably wouldn’t guess it was the Drake heir, a kid on the missing list, and Bruce Wayne’s dead son walking in an amusement park.

With their tickets that TIm had bought online, they entered the park and looked around. 

Jason cleared his throat “Roller coaster.”

“Yeah! Let’s go” Duke cheered, bouncing up and down.  

They both noticed Tim shift awkwardly next to them. 

Jason and Duke shared a look, but decided to ignore it–for now.

The first line they got into was the Blazing Serpent, a red roller coaster that whipped around sharp turns and ended with a large loop. 

Tim was still fidgeting nervously, and Duke decided to address it.

“You good?” 

Tim jumped, startled. He blushed, embarrassed. “umm… yeah. I’m just kinda terrified… of roller coasters.” The words were rushed, like it was some sort of world-ending secret. 

Jason gave him a dry look “Really?”

Duke hissed quietly, his tone teasing “You regularly jump over buildings in the most dangerous city in the world. But roller coasters are where you draw the line?” 

Tim grumbled under his breath, cursing threats to the two others. 

“Skip it. Walk over.” Jason added, smirking. 

“Yeah, maybe we can do a little one later.” Duke added,

Tim moved to defend himself “It doesn’t have to be little. Just not this.” He gestured his arms wildly around him.

Jason smirked and pointed to the exit. “Little teacups.”

With a defeated sigh, Tim hopped over the cars of the vehicles, grabbing their bags, and sitting at a bench near the exit. His arms crossed as he glared at Jason. 

Once the all clear was given the ride shot of into the track. 

And Duke and Jason screamed.

Duke hadn’t been to an amusement park in years. He screamed in joy as the adrenaline fueled his body. Giving him a break from the anxiety from the kidnapping seemed to slowly fade from beneath his skin. 

The rest of the day went surprisingly well, Gothams luck avoiding them completely. They even managed to bribe Tim onto a roller coaster. 

He insisted he didn’t have fun, but he also was grinning like a madman. 

By closing, the trio was back on the bus, ready to go back to Gotham.

Tim, sitting next to Jason, smiled “I’d say today was successful. Now we know the disguises work well under pressure.”

Duke snorted, unable to hold in his amusement. 

Jason sent Tim a look “And rest?”

Tim grinned awkwardly “Yep, and rest.” 

Duke leaned back into his seat, and let out a sigh. The day had chased away a lot of the weight pressing on him, but it was slowly starting to come back. 

It had been a perfect distraction–one break before the chaos of the hospital break-in. 

But for now, Duke decided to put the next few days into the back of his mind, and smiled at Tim and Jason.

 “Definitely a successful day.”

Chapter Text

He was both excited and nervous as they entered through one of the staff doors. Duke knew his parents were going through something, but maybe seeing him would help.

And maybe they would get better. 

The past two days he, Tim and Jason had been going over the plan again and again, making sure every detail was in place. After the last incident, Jason had wanted to come. Duke thought Jason would be fine–he was obviously trained, and could help.

But when he decided to add this, Tim had given him a look and then quietly pulled Jason aside. When they came out, Jason said he would stay behind, but if they were not back by morning, he’d come find them.

Or at least, that's what Duke could understand. 

Either way, both he and Tim had left as soon as the sky began to give hints of darkening. They’d taken a taxi downtown and snuck around the back of the hospital. 

Tim had pulled out electric keys he’d somehow coded to open the locks on the hospital doors.

Duke was mildly horrified when Tim claimed breaking in was incredibly easy. Either Tim was that good, or the hospital needed some security updates.

He filed those thoughts in his ‘deal with later folder,’ and followed him inside.

 As they entered, Duke thought back to the conversations earlier. 

”I found your parents room.”

Duke answered immediately “Where?”

“Long-term room #1342”

“That’s a big number… is it far up?.”

Tim glanced at him, “Yeah, it’s the top floor.”

Duke swore quietly “I’m guessing things just got a lot harder?” 

Tim shook his head “There’s a larger margin of error, but the plan stays the same.”

Duke recited the plan, the familiar words stabilizing him “Get in, you’ll loop the camera’s and we’ll find my parents room.”

“Yep, the lights should be mostly off in their hallway, excluding the emergency ones.” Tim glanced down, his voice lowering “Once you get in, I can hold off the cameras all night. But we shouldn't stay that long.” 

Duke had nothing to add and the room went quiet, only interrupted by Tim rustling the blueprints.

The hallway they entered had been completely lit up, but Tim had already checked the cameras and said no one was coming. Still, the lights made it seem like someone could jump out from the corner at any time. 

They moved quickly, and passed through a door. Finding the flights of stairs in front of them. 

Duke heard Tim echo his grumble, they both knew it was coming but seeing it in person was a different story. 

Fifteen minutes later they emerged through another door, both panting slightly. 

The next hallway they entered way dark, only a few lights breaking the gloom. It was the wing for patients meant to be there for the long-term. 

Duke let out a shaky breath, and Tim moved slightly at the noise.

They both walked slowly reading each numbered door until they reached one at the end of the wall. The numbers glowing bronze in the dim light: Room 1342

Making a decision, Duke broke the silence “May I do this alone?”

For a moment, he saw confusion flicker on Tim’s face before it faded “Alright. Call me if you need something.” 

Tim moved towards the door, unlocking it–extra security due to the Joker Venom–then he moved away silently, allowing Duke to enter the room.

“...Good luck,” Tim said softly

“Thanks.”

And with that, the door shut behind him. 

Duke approached his parents' bedside slowly. They were both asleep, their faces frozen in grotesque, wide grins. Their hands and feet restrained to the bed.

Duke felt a shiver run down his spine, every breath he took making the room smaller and smaller.

For a moment, all he could do was stare. The coldness pressed in from every direction, suffocating him. 

Then came the doubt. The crushing weight of it. His parents seemed so far gone. What if there was nothing he could do?

The feelings lingered in the pit of his stomach as he reached the button controlling the anesthetic. It was a bright read, and cold to the touch. 

The click sliced through the silence.

The Joker Venom negated the effect of almost all other drugs, making treatment impossible. But it meant the sleep-inducing drugs would wear off immediately. 

Duke held his breath, his hand trembling as he watched his parents for any sign of movement. 

And then, his dads finger twitched. Followed quickly by his moms foot jerking. 

It was small, but it was enough to start a chain reaction.

A hand tapped the bed.

The chest started rising and falling faster.

Then their eyes opened.

And Duke met their gaze.

“Mom. Dad.” His words were shaky, and it was an effort to keep going “It’s me, Duke.”

He finished with a near whisper “Your son.”

For a second, Duke was filled with hope.

Then the smiles widened, stretching impossibly wide. 

Laughter erupted.

It wasn’t real. It wasn’t real laughter. 

It was the Joker Venom. A never-ending sound of hysteria and pain. Tears rolling down their cheeks.

 They weren’t breathing. 

He wasn’t breathing.

But they didn’t. 

Stop.

Smiling. 

“NO… No no no no.” Duke staggered backwards.

They kept watching him, even with their gaze filled with madness, but somehow never breaking the gaze.

“Please.” His voice cracked as tears began to fall “Please, please.”

He couldn’t take it anymore. Crawling into a corner, he pressed his hands over his ears, trying to muffle the noise. He curled in on himself, as time moved painfully slowly. 

The laughter faded.

There was a noise from the bed. But Duke couldn't look up.

He didn't want to see the bloody grins

He didn’t want to hear the insane laughter.

He didn’t want to see faces looking at him with no recognition. 

Then he felt someone approach him, but he had no fear. Nothing could hurt him more than this.

“Hey.” The voice was calm, but strong, “Duke, I need you to breathe with me.”

Duke hadn't realized he’d stopped breathing. His chest burned as he let out the air in his stomach.

“Good.” The voice was still talking “Now can you match mine?”

For a few moments he was silent as he attempted to control his breathing. When he finally lifted his head, he found himself staring face-to-face with Nightwing. 

“Crud.”

Nightwing chuckled, an underlying relief in his voice. ”Glad to see you alive and sane.”

Duke winced, trying hard not to look at his parents. Nightwing noticed and frowned slightly. 

“How…how did you find me.” Duke asked 

Nightwing regarded him quietly “I read your files. I knew you would have to come and see them.”

“Oh”

“I’m sorry for not getting here sooner.” Nightwing continued 

Duke realized Nightwing must have been the one to turn back on his parents' anesthetic, putting them back to sleep. It also dawned on him that Nightwing must have been watching the hospital for him.

The legendary hero was watching the hospital for him . He would probably freak out about that later. 

The older man stood up from his crouching position and offered a hand, which Duke took gratefully. 

“Listen, I'm going to need you to come with me.” Nightwing said “We’ll get you all, sorted–’’

“No!” Duke cut him off, panic flaring. 

Nightwing met his gaze questionably, and Duke tried to reason.  “I’m perfectly happy where I am.”

“And where is that?”

For a moment Duke considered telling him. “I can’t say.”

”Listen, kiddo.” He ignored Duke’s huff “I promise you'll be taken care of.”

Duke replied, steel in his gaze “I don’t care where you take me. I’ll run from every place if I have to.”

Nightwing opened his mouth to respond, but stopped and grumbled. A hand shot up to his communicator in his ear.

“ Excuse me ” 

Duke blinked, confused. Until he realized Nightwing was talking to someone else. 

“I’m already here.”

…

“No! I’ll tell why later.”

…

“Alright. I’ll meet you down there.”

… 

“...Yeah. I’ll try.”

Nightwing directed his gaze back towards Duke and his eyes narrowed. “Stay here. Do not leave.”

“Wait, What? Why?”

Then alarms pierced through the air, demanding everyone to stay in their room. 

“Because it’s too late now. The Jokers already here.”

Nightwings voice was completely different from seconds ago. Now commanding and serious. 

“Don’t move–I’ll be back.”

With that, Nightwing yanked open the door and ran out. The door locked shut behind him.

Duke stood frozen, as the alarms amplified his panic. He swiveled his head around and saw a window.

He rushed over to see if he could get out, but the drop was too far–It would kill him.

“It’s fine.” Duke started mumbling to himself “Nightwing knows I'm here.”

He took a deep breath. “We’re okay.”

A large pounding broke through his thoughts. Coming from the door.

Someone was hitting the door. 

Duke panicked, and looked around. He saw a table and slid under it, ignoring the splinters he had probably gained. 

The pounding grew louder as someone continued to hit the door. 

He's going to die he's going to die he's goi–

“Duke, if you do not open this door right now I'm breaking in.”

Suddenly, his spiraling thoughts stopped as he recognized Tim’s voice.

He moved to open the door, when the lock clicked open on its own.

Tim rushed in and looked at Duke. His face had a bruise starting to form and his arm was bleeding from a large cut.

“Tim, what happened? Are you–”

He cut himself off when another figure entered. 

A girl with short black hair and blue eyes that seemed to pierce through him. Her presence was unsettling, as if she was able to see everything about him. 

But what surprised him most were her clothes. 

They were the same black garments that the person rescuing him from the Joker had worn.

“Who is this?”

“We have to go,” Tim yelled at him, ignoring his question. “The police are locking down the hospital, to prevent the Joker from hurting more people.”

Locking it down? But what about the people inside? 

Duke knew why they would do it. If they could get the Joker in one place they would have a better chance of taking him down.

But all the people in the hospital could be killed.

The Joker could come to finish off his parents.

No one could protect them.

He looked Tim in the eye and backed away from the door. Tim looked at him confused.

“What are you doing? We have to go.” The girl was nodding with Tim’s statement. 

Duke steeled his gaze and ignored the instincts telling him to get out of there. 

His voice was a whisper, but it was full of resolve “No. I’m staying right here.”

He watched Tim’s eyes widen, but he didn’t flinch.

“I won’t leave them again.”

Chapter Text

Tim watched as the door shut behind Duke. 

He wanted to follow–just in case something went wrong. Duke was capable, he’d already proven that, but something would always go wrong.

Without fail.

Every. Single. Time. 

He stared at the door for another few seconds before forcing himself to turn away. 

As he walked down the hallway he tried to figure out what to do next. He was slightly annoyed that Duke had changed the plan, but Tim had seen the look on his friend's face. 

It frightened him. Not that he’d ever admit that.

Pausing, he looked at a map that had been pinned to the wall. Needing to do something before his brain exploded. He picked a direction, walked down the hall, up some stairs, through a door, and into a different room. 

No one had been around in the halls–Tim made sure to check every corner before he went around. They were getting really lucky. 

Or someone was helping them.

Tim quickly pushed the thought away. Only he, Jason and Duke knew what they were planning. And no matter how much he admired him, Jason wasn’t this good at hacking. 

Surveying the room, Tim found what he was looking for. A computer attached to the hospital's mainframe. Perfect.

He turned it on and plugged in a device. In a few minutes he’d have access to everything. 

Tim had been researching a new case. Some killings had been happening all around the same area. Then another happened across the city, Tim wasn’t able to get there in time so he wasn’t able to see the bodies. 

He could have found a way in eventually but this was a lot easier.

For a moment it was just the quiet whirring of the computer. 

Then there was a long beep.

 Tim jolted up at the noise, surprised. On the screen figures of code, created a shape, the shape of a head. 

Oracle

Barbara Gordon. Previous Batgirl. Now the Bat's eyes and ears everywhere. Behind Jason, this was Tim’s favorite member of all the Bats. 

Text started popping up on the screen. 

Oracle: Hello Tim Drake. Nice to finally get in contact. 

He stared. Should he answer? She already knew he was there. He should have pushed to wear masks. But Duke said he would take it off when seeing his parents, so there was no point anyway. And for some dumb reason, Tim had conceded. 

He let out a sigh and started typing. 

SoaringBird: What do you want?

Tim looked at his name annoyed. Of course she figured it out. He wondered if she knew how much he disliked it. 

Oracle: I want to know what you know.

SoaringBird: I don’t understand.

Oracle: It’s simple, Tim. Do you know who we are?

Tim froze. He knew Oracle was watching him on the cameras so that slight hesitation had already given him away. 

Lying would do him no good.

SoaringBird: Yes. 

Oracle: Have you told anyone?

SoaringBird: Never. 

Oracle: Not even your friend. Duke Thomas.

SoaringBird: No. Have you told the Bats about me?

Oracle: Not yet.

Not yet. Not just No. But ‘not yet.’ That could be a problem. 

SoaringBird: Why?

A pause. Then–

Oracle: Because I’ve seen what happens when something bad comes for them. They choose to react first, and ask questions later.

Oracle: Right now they are hurt, grieving, and angry. And that makes them dangerous. 

Tim inhaled sharply. The weight of that admittance settled like a stone in him. 

SoaringBird: You don’t trust them?

Oracle: I do. Just not with this. Not with you, not right now. 

Oracle: You’ve been operating for years, helping both the Bats and the police. And somehow no one noticed. 

Oracle: What you’re doing is not just luck. You have skill, but more importantly you have caution.

Oracle: And I respect that.

Tim read the words on screen, and his chest tightened. 

SoaringBird: Thank you.

A beat.  

SoaringBird: Did you clear the hallway for us?

Oracle: Yep. You caught on quickly. 

SoaringBird: You’ve given me all of this help. What do you want in return?

Oracle: You’re a smart one, huh. 

Oracle: It’s more of what I don’t want. 

Oracle: I’ve looked through the security footage and somehow you’ve been doing this for years. And we never noticed. 

Oracle: You have skill, but that won’t always protect you. I don’t want you getting hurt, or killed.

Tim didn’t need her to say it. He could hear the unspoken ‘like Jason.’ Jason the magic of Robin, and he still died. 

But he knew he couldn’t stop his photography. This was his life, it’s what he looked forward to every night. 

And wasn’t that a sad thought. 

SoaringBird: So what now?

Oracle: I know I can’t stop you. But I want you to have an out. The tool you plugged in–I coded it  with a panic function. Build it. Set it up. I want to know you have a way out if something goes wrong. 

Oracle: You’ve got a month. If it’s not up then, I alert the others. 

Tim started at the screen. His heart was pounding, it wasn’t a threat, but a warning. 

She wouldn’t cross that line unless Tim forced her. 

He grabbed the USB and tucked it deep into his pocket. 

SoaringBird: I’ll do it. I promise. 

The screen remained the same. Confused, he typed again.

SoaringBird: Oracle? 

Oracle: Get your friend get out now 

Oracle: The Joker is heading towards the hospital

Tim didn’t even bother creating a response. They'd barely escaped last time, and they didn't have their mystery helper, or the element of surprise anymore. 

He had to find Duke and get out of here.

He ran down the hallway–

Straight into a nurse.

“What–who are you?”

Tim was about to answer when alarms blared.

“Nevermind.” The nurse started dragging him down a hallway. “”We have to move. They're initiating a lockdown.” 

Tim’s eyes widened “A lockdown?”

She glanced at him as they entered a door “Full emergency protocol. A Joker threat. No one is allowed in or out but the police or Bats, until he’s contained.”

That stopped him cold.

A full lockdown. 

He’d read about these–they sealed off all exits, turned off communication, and locked every floor. The Joker knew Duke’s face, and if they didn’t leave immediately they’d be stuck in the building with him.

“Why are you just standing there?” The nurse snapped at him “Get down!”

Tim took one look at her, turned, and bolted out the door, ignoring the gasp of surprise.

Duke. He had to get Duke out of here. 

He ran down the hall and turned a corner–then skidded to a halt.

A voice startled him “There’s a kid!’’

Another “Get him!’

He met their eyes. Two of Joker's henchmen– the same two from the warehouse.

He ran hard. But they expected it this time, and with nothing he could climb over, they caught him easily. One grabbed his arm, and tore him off balance, and the other pinned him to the wall. 

“What’s a little thing like you doing out here all alone?”

“Did a big bad rogue hurt your mommy?” The second man mocked.

Tim winced as they both laughed at him. Their breath reeked of smoke, and something smelling metallic. But they didn’t seem to recognize him. 

Little miracles.

He just had to make sure Duke wasn’t seen. Even these people could figure out who they were with Duke’s face. 

He jerked his knee upward, and caught one of them in the stomach.

“Hey. You little–”

Tim yelled as the man hit him across the face, a white-hot flash went across his vision and his jaw throbbed in pain. 

“I was gonna take you to the Joker” One of them growled, as he pulled a knife from his belt, “but now, I’m not feeling too generous.”

Tim turned cold, as the knife hovered above his chest. 

“On the count of three.” The man grinned. 

“One…”

Tim squeezed his eyes shut.

“Two-”

Tim screamed as the knife hit him. As pain laced through his arm. Not his chest. His arm . He opened his eyes to see a burning line cut across it. Blood slowly started to seep through his sleeve.

He blinked, disoriented, in time to hear–

“What the–” 

Both men turned to see what had redirected the knife. 

Standing before them was a figure covered in clothing. The same outfit from the night at the warehouse. 

“You!”

Suddenly one of the men looked back at him. “You’re the kid from the warehouse.”

The figure didn’t wait, and struck like a shadow. Taking the tow goons out with practiced ease. 

The henchmen weren’t the best trained, but they were still big. Causing Tim to, yet again, try to guess who there helped was.

The figure rushed over to Tim and grabbed his non-injured arm and dragged him into the closest room. 

Forcing him to sit on the bed, the figure went and grabbed bandages and some ointment, and got to work wrapping Tim’s arm. 

“Um” Tim started “Thank you… again.”

The figure finished and looked up at him–blue eyes shining under the dark hood. 

“Who are you?”

For a moment it looked like they would run, but they paused. Slowly their hands came up and they took off the hood.

Tim sucked in a breath of air as he took in the person in front him.

They were a girl with the same blue eyes as before. But now Tim saw her short black hair, and a small nose. Her face had healed injuries covering it.

Despite this, she held herself the same as before. Strong, giving off a sense of quiet confidence. 

“Oh. Do you have a name?”

At this point Tim realized she wouldn’t or couldn't talk, and didn’t want to push it. But having something to address her as other than ‘mystery person’ would be welcome.

She shook her head 

“You can’t tell me?”

She shook her head again.

“...you don't have one?”

A nod.

TIm felt a pang of sadness. 

“Well maybe we can find one together.” He thought of Jason “I know someone who would be great at that.”

It took a second for Tim to realize he basically invited her to his house, and he worried he had gone too far. Proving him wrong, she smiled bright and genuine. Tim smiled back. 

Walking over and grabbing his hand Tim suddenly remembered. 

“Duke!”

She looked at him, confused. 

“He’s up with his parents. We have to go get him.”

She nodded and together they sprinted up the stairs to Duke’s room. At every turn, Tim was worried he would see the Jokers. The alarms in the background screamed at him. 

Please be okay. You have to be okay.

They reached the hallway where his room was, his arm pounded but the fear overrode the pain.

He was about to open the door when he paused. Duke could be in there talking with his parents. Tim didn’t want to intrude. 

Deciding to knock, Tim pounded heavily on the door, to make sure he was heard above the alarms. When no one answered Tim pounded harder.

Frustrated, he yelled out “Duke, if you do not open this door right now I'm breaking in.”

Deciding not to wait any longer he unlocked the door and stormed in and watched Duke staring at them with wide eyes, his gaze dropping to Tim’s bloody arm. 

“Tim, what happened? Are you–”

Duke cut himself off as the girl entered the room. Tim started to grow impatient, introductions later. Escape now.

“Who is this?” Duke asked 

“We have to go,” Tim snapped “The police are locking down the hospital, to prevent the Joker from hurting more people.”

For a moment Duke stared at him. And started backing away.

“What are you doing? We have to go.” Tim sounded worried, he could feel the girl wanting to drag them both out. 

 “No. I’m staying right here.”

Tim felt his eyes widen at Duke's declaration.

“I won’t leave them again.”

For a moment Tim was speechless. His throat was tightened.

“Duke.” His voice started to rise “We barely escaped the Joker last time. This isn't the warehouse, we don’t have the element of surprise. We don’t even know how many people he brought in” 

“I don’t care.”

Tim stepped forward anger flaring under the panic “You don’t care if you die?”

“No” Duke’s voice was steel “I care if they die. I can’t leave them alone again.” 

Tim stopped cold. He was only starting to understand what it meant to truly care about people. But he could see how much it would hurt Duke to leave his parents behind. 

“Find a better friend.” Tim could hear the sadness behind Duke’s declaration.

Tim glared “That won’t work. We’re trauma bonded. We’re family now.”

Silence.

For a moment Tim froze, he hadn’t meant for the words to come out of his mouth. But Duke didn’t look angry. Instead he had tears in his eyes. But they weren’t sad. 

They seemed almost relieved.

The girl put her hand on Tim’s shoulder and smiled.

“I guess you’re with us too.” Tim commented

Duke gave her a once-over “You sure? We can be idiots sometimes.”

The girl gestured around the hospital room in a deadpan stare. Then proceeded to point at the locked windows and Tim’s bloody arm. But she still smiled and gave them a nod.

The two boys laughed.

Slowly they walked over towards the far corner and the three of them sat down. They sat together in silence as the flashing lights made the room seem smaller. 

It seemed to go on for hours. Maybe it was minutes. 

Then–a scream.

Not a cry. Not a shout of pain. It sounded… wrong. It echoed through the hallways, sharp and jagged as if the hospital itself was trying to get away from the noise. 

The scream was high-pitched, jagged–seeming almost like laughter. It didn’t sound human, there was no fear behind it. It was just empty, expectant. 

The three of them exchanged looks, and an understanding passed through them.

Something major had just shifted. The echo of the scream replayed in Tim’s mind.

He took a breath, and focused on the good. 

They were all unharmed. Mostly.

The rest he could deal with later.

Chapter Text

Once the alarms stopped the hospital went back to its eerie silence.

Duke was the first to break it. “Nightwing’s probably coming right now.”

Tim froze. “I’m sorry, what?”

“Yeah” Duke ran his hand behind his neck “He kinda knew I was here.” 

A shaky sob escaped him “My parents are bad. Like, really bad. Nightwing had to come in and sedate them.”

He dropped his head between his knees. The silent girl crouched next to him, and patted him on his back.

“Wait.” Duke looked up “Who are you?” 

Tim offered a grin “This is… Samantha.”

She shot him a sharp look.

“Okay. Not Samantha.”

Duke groaned “Now I’m even more confused.”

“I don't actually know who she is,” Tim admitted. “She doesn't talk, and from what I can tell she doesn't have one.”

“That… oh” Tim gave Duke a minute to process. 

The silence was short lived. A few seconds later footsteps could be heard approaching the door.

The trio exchanged wary glances as the door opened. 

“Duke, you better still be here,” called a familiar voice.

Duke stood up and his eyes went wide. “Nightwing! You’re–whoa you’re covered in blood.”

Nightwings voice was tight, like he was barely keeping it together “Comes with the job kid.”

“Are you…okay.”

“Yeah.” Nightwing seemed surprised at the question “It’s not mine.”

Duke grimaced, and Nightwing winced realizing what he said.

Then, Nightwing straightened and scanned the room. “Who else is in here?”

Hearing the hostility in the man’s voice, Tim stood, and the girl followed him. For a moment,  Nightwing looked surprised but it quickly faded.

“You’re Tim Drake.”

Tim gave a sheepish grin, ignoring Duke’s muttered “ rich people…”

“That’s me, Dukes staying with me.”

He paused and saw a camera blinking in the corner of his eye. Oracle was watching, maybe Tim had a chance to get out of here.

Nightwings gaze flicked between the three of them “How do you all know each other?”

Tim hesitated, trying to think of a story–Duke jumped in.

“We met each other at the warehouse and I decided to stay with him and his cousin.”

Nightwing frowned, his eyes narrowing “Cousin?”

“Yep,” He quickly pushed the girl forward and grinned “She’s a very, very , distant relative from Europe.”

He could feel Duke frowning at him, but can’t tell Nightwing about Jason.

“Listen, I know Tim is being… charitable,”Nightwing offered gently “but it really would be better if you came with me.”

Tim took one look at Duke’s sad face and decided that was not going to happen. 

“Nightwing. Duke’s staying with us.”

He caught Duke’s stop talking gesture beside him.

“Tim.” Nightwings tone grew more serious. “It’d be better for everyone if he stayed with us.”

“I know who you are.” 

The tension in the room spiked. Duke had completely stilled, the girl tensed, as if ready for a fight. Nightwing simply smiled and raised a brow. 

“Is that so?” He said coolly, “And how would you know that?”

Tim huffed, and crossed his arms, “Both of you were complete dicks.”

It was shallow, definitely, and Tim felt it was incredibly obvious, but it did the job. Nightwing stared at them, clearly rattled.

“How…”

Duke blinked. “Wait, what?” 

“It’s a long story.” Tim said, brushing it off “But I haven’t told anyone, and if you let Duke stay with us… I won’t.”

The girl posture stiffened–alert and trying to figure out Tim’s next move. It probably would have worked if Tim knew what he was doing next.

“Are you blackmailing me?”

“No!” Tim said quickly “Just giving you a good reason to have Duke stay with us.”

“That’s blackmailing.”

Nightwing turned away, visibly attempting to gather himself. Tim held his breath. But when he turned back, the man was smiling.

“Alright, you got me.”

Tim blinked.

No way it was this easy. This was a Bat. There must be some trap.

“But I have a condition.”

Of course.

“What do you want?”

“You have to check in with me. Regularly. You know who I am–tell your friends, and you’ll see me soon.”

Tim looked over at Duke, who was staring at him in shock, and raised an eyebrow. Duke nodded hesitantly. 

“Okay, I agree.” Tim glanced at the clock “But you have to get us out of the hospital in the next twenty minutes.”

That earned him a full blown Nightwing grin. 

“How do you feel about flying?”

~~~~~~~~~~

They swung across the rooftops with Nightwing using his grappling hook. It was terrifying, but quickly turned exhilarating. And from the looks on their faces, Tim could tell Duke and their quiet companion felt the same.

Nightwing had dropped the three of them on a roof, given them contact information, and went straight back towards the hospital.

A few minutes later, Duke turned to the girl.

“So… you’re coming with us.” He tilted his head “Right?”

She glanced over at Tim with a questioning look. 

“We wouldn’t mind at all.”

She gives them a brilliant smile and places her hand on Tim’s shoulder. The two boys smiled back. Then Duke snapped his fingers.

“Tim, the stars are fading. We have to go.”. 

Looking at the sky Tim winced. “We’ve got less than an hour before Jason comes hunting us down.”

Duke paled. “What are you waiting for? I am not getting on that guy’s bad side.”

Laughing, Tim launched himself over to the next rooftop and looked back. Duke followed, awkward but determined. Their newest companion made the leap effortlessly. 

Together the three of them raced back through the emerging dawn, back to Drake Manor.

~~~~~~~~~~

“No.”

Tim blinked

“I’m sorry?”

Tim had opened the door to see Jason. He moved forward quickly, placing himself between her and the others.

“She’s not safe.” he said flatly “Trained. Deadly.”

Tim hesitated and thought about it. The girl was incredibly trained and he had no idea how or why. He hadn’t even considered that she could be dangerous. What if it was a trick?

As if reading his thoughts–or maybe his body language-her shoulders slumped and she backed away. Jason looked surprised for a moment before his eyes hardened again.

“No.”

Duke’s voice stopped her in her tracks.

“I know we don’t know much about her.” Duke smiled softly in her direction. “But she saved our lives multiple times.” He glanced at Tim “You said it earlier. What can she gain from risking her life for us again and again.” 

Duke looked down, and spoke in a whisper “Maybe she’s just like the rest of us. Just looking for a family.” 

Tim looked wide-eyed at Duke. It was mostly true–some wishful thinking, maybe. But it still hit close to home.

“Yeah.” Tim said quietly  Like I said at the hospital. All of us… we’re family now.”

He swallowed “You know… if that’s alright with all of you.”

Instead of words, he got an answer from a hug. 

From everyone. 

Duke grinned. The girl’s expression softened. And Jason, while still wary, ruffled his hair with a sight. 

They untangled slowly, and drifted inside. 

“What happened?”

Tim startled at Jason’s words. Then he looked down and saw his arm was still bloody from the cut earlier. 

“Oh… that” Tim racked his brain, trying to figure out a way to ease Jason into this. 

Duke stepped in  “The Joker attacked the hospital. I met Nightwing, and learned Tim knows the man’s identity. And now Nightwing is coming to say hi.”

Duke then sank to the floor. “Oh my god. I know Nightwings phone number.” 

Tim snorted at Duke’s expression, then saw Jason’s face whitening. 

“Don’t worry.” He said gently, “He doesn’t  know anything about you.”

Duke looked up at Tim with an eyebrow raised. “And why can’t we tell Nightwing about Jason?”

Tim glanced over at Jason, who stared at the girl for a long moment, but gave Tim a nod.

“Batman is Bruce Wayne.” Tim said

The room went still.

Duke put his hands on his knees and groaned. “Of course he is.”

“That means Nightwing is Dick Grayson,” Tim continued, “and the second Robin was… Jason Todd.” 

Duke then proceeded to bang his head multiple times against his hands. While the girl's eyes widened and she stared at Jason. 

“Over a month ago I was visiting Jason’s grave and…” Tim took a deep breath. “He came out of it.”

Duke shot up and looked Jason straight in the eyes. Jason waved awkwardly.

“Hi…” Jason grinned sadly “My name is Jason Todd. I was Robin.”

“ Oh my god. ”

Silence again, then Duke looked over at Tim. “I’m assuming he’s… safe?”

Tim noticed Jason flinch slightly and glared at Duke.

“Do you think he’d be here if he wasn't?”

Duke flushed “Sorry.”

“Any more bombshells.” Duke said dryly “The night is still young.”

“Well I spoke with Oracle” Tim said, then added “Who is Barbara Gordon by the way.”

“Oracle?”

“Our eyes.” Jason answered this time "She knows everything.”

Jason paused and looked surprised for a moment. ““I want to see her.”

Tim regarded Jason. “You sure?”

“Yes.”

Tim thought about it, and realized it made sense. He knew the two had gotten along, and there wasn’t as much anger towards her as there was towards Bruce and Dick. It would be a good starting point, a place to test the waters. 

“I know where her base is. We can go there tomorrow night.”

Jason smiled weakly. 

“No offense, but I don’t think I can do it tomorrow.” Duke looked down, guilty. “I’m tired, my parents just… laughed in my face. I don’t…”

Reality felt like a plunge in cold water–the reason they went to the hospital, and what had happened.

Jason didn’t wait, and dragged them all to the living room and sat down. 

“You have to rest.” 

In the quiet another hug was initiated. Tim didn’t know who started it–but it was warm, grounding, and needed.

Duke sniffled, and everyone drew closer.

Tim thought about what Duke had said. They might not be okay now, but they will get there.

Everything was already changing.

Tim had a family now. 

And it meant everything.

Chapter Text

“Hey,” Jason’s voice was gentle. "Are you sure you'll be alright alone?”

Duke gave him a watery smile “Yeah. I think I may need it.

It had been a discussion point for the entire day. At first the girl-still unnamed-was going to stay with Duke. But Jason refused to let her be alone with him. Tim was hoping Jason would eventually warm up to her, but so far, it seemed like it would take awhile. 

So, they decided that Duke would stay at Drake Manor, while Tim, Jason, and the girl made a visit to the Clocktower. Where Oracle would hopefully be.  

Unlike their hospital run, this hadn’t been carefully planned out. Jason had said that Oracle would spot any attempt to sneak into the Clocktower. They’d just show up during the patrol times and hope for the best.

Tim gave one last glance at Duke, who gave him a thumbs up, before the door closed. Tim didn’t want to leave, but right now Jason wanted to see someone from ‘before.’ That leap in progress couldn’t be ignored.

Like the previous night, they caught a cab. 

It was the same driver as before. He had a pinched look on his face as he watched them enter the cab, eyes lingering on Jason who was wearing an oversized hoodie and sunglasses. 

A half hour later they were standing at the base of the Clocktower. Tim approached the door, ready to knock. 

Jason looked at him judgmentally. 

“Do you have any better ideas?” Tim hissed

Both Jason and the girl shook their heads.

Before his knuckles made contact a voice started speaking. 

“ No need. I saw you coming from miles away.”

Tim jumped at the voice, trying to find where it was coming from. He heard a snort from the other end of the line. 

“Who's your friend?” She asked curiously “It’s certainly not Duke.”

A pause

“Speaking of, where is Duke?”

“Duke needs some time alone, as for our friend.” Tim hesitated, “You may have to see him to understand.”

There was a pause and then a clicking noise. The door to the clock tower swung inward. Jason stood still staring at it, shaking slightly. Tim brushed his hand against Jason’s, who gripped it tightly.

Together the three of them walked up the stairs and into the room. 

When they entered the main floor, Tim’s breath caught. 

The room glowed faintly from the lights of the city that showed through the four massive clock faces. Scattered around the room were maps, casefiles, tools, and a few long-forgotten take out boxes.

But the most impressive part was the computer that dominated the room. It had multiple glowing displays, fitting together like pieces of a computer. The screens showed news reports, files, audio readouts, and scrolling code.

For a moment one screen showed a black and white still of a hospital hallway. A tall figure–looking similar to Nightwing–stood over a body slumped against the tile. The image flickered away a second later, replaced by a software diagnostic. 

Sitting in front of the computers was Oracle. 

Turning in her wheelchair to glance at them, she smirked. “Impressed?” 

Tim nodded, awestruck at the technology. “Yeah… Ms. Oracle.”

He heard Jason snort, and the girl rolled her eyes. 

“Just call me Barbara” Oracle-Barbara!-said. 

Tim was pushed out of observations by a feeling in his hand. Looking down, he saw Jason’s hand shaking more than before. 

“You ready? I can try and get us out of here.” Tim offered softly.

Barbara started observing them, more carefully, likely hearing Tim’s offer. 

He felt Jason take a deep breath as he slowly removed his sunglasses and hood.

“Hey Babs.” Jason’s voice was quiet 

Barbara stared at him, face blank. Frozen. 

“You’re not Jason. Jason is dead.”

Jason flinched as Barbara's face filled with ice-cold rage. 

“I don’t know what kind of twisted joke this is. But you don’t get to play Jason.”

She rolled forward slightly. “You don’t get to use his face like that.” 

“Stop.” Tim spoke quickly, “It’s him. I…I dug him out of his grave.”

Barbara paused, not taking her eyes off Jason.

“I… I was visiting. And I heard something. I got a shovel, and found him” 

A look of guarded horror crosses Barbara's face. 

“You have a DNA scanner, right? Something Bruce wouldn’t be alerted by?”

Silently, Barabra took a machine out of a drawer. Jason didn’t flinch when she took some of his blood, setting into the scanner.

Silence settled over the room, no one dared to speak.

Then a sharp beep. 

Barbara read the machine.

Then looked at Jason.

“...Oh god” Her voice cracked. “Jason.”

“...Babs.” Jason sounded just as wrecked.

She slowly rolled over to him and took him in a hug. For a moment he just stiffened, but then Jason relaxed, and silent tears ran down his face. 

“You’re alive.” She was crying now “I’m so sorry.”

Jason buried his face in her shoulder, and they just stayed like that. 

For a few minutes Tim and the girl stood quietly, watching the scene play out, then Barbara slowly leaned back. 

“You idiot . Why haven’t you said anything? How long have you been back?”

She paused, “Tim said something about your grave.”

Tim opened his mouth, but Jason waved him to stop.

“It’s been months” His words were slow “I woke up in my…my grave.”

Barbara moved in and gave him another hug.

Jason shuddered, “I can’t think about the others. They’re too much, maybe soon, but not yet” 

She looked over at Jason for a moment. “Okay–That's okay.”

He looked at her in surprise.

“What’s one more secret? Especially this one.”

Jason grinned, and let out a weak laugh.

Barbara turned to the others. “Now, how about some proper introductions.

Tim smiled, “I’m Tim Drake, but you know this.” He gestured to the girl “She doesn’t have a name, but we’re working on it!”

Jason frowned “Duke said you offered Samantha.”

Tim winced, “Slowly. We’re working on it slowly.”

Barbara smiled at the girl. “Well, I’m Barbara Gordon, but I'm sure these two idiots told you this already.”

The girl offered a tentative smile as the two boys made annoyed sounds.

“But seriously, if you ever need to escape the three boys my doors open.”

The girl's smile turned bright and Tim mirrored her. Jason seemed to be looking between them, half-annoyed, half-curious. 

“Now, they said something about a name?”

The next few hours were spent brainstorming names. Jason came up with a few, but never gave the perfect one. And Tim, for the amazing detective he was, could not come up with a fitting name to save his life.

“What about Crystal?”

Everyone stared at Tim. “Tim” Jason started “Amazing, little brother. Does she look like a Crystal?”

Tim looked down embarrassed at both his name suggestion, and the fact Jason had called him little brother. “It sounded better in my head.”

Barbara studies the girl quietly for a moment “What about… Cassandra?”

Jason and Tim paused and glanced at each other. It sounded good. They looked over at the girl who smiled.

“Cassandra.” Her voice was hoarse, as though it had never been used, but it still sounded musical. 

Tim’s smile widened “Cass for short!”

She nodded excitedly and gave another one of her shining smiles.

Tim made a happy noise, and felt pride bubbling up inside him. His sister had a name now, and it was beautiful.

 Jason watched her, his face softening slightly. Tim hoped it meant Jason was finally accepting her.

Together the group sat together, discussing simple topics for the next hour.

Tim’s phone binged. And he looked down. 

DG: I wanted to let you know I’m coming to your house in two days. Be ready :D. -Dick Grayson

Tim read the message, surprised, and looked up.

“It’s Dick. He’s coming over on Tuesday.”

He watched as Jason froze, and Barbara looked at him in concern. 

“Jason?” Realization washed over her face “Would you want to stay with me that day?”

Jason looked at her gratefully and nodded, shame filling his features.

Checking the time, Tim sucked in a breath.

“We should head back, Duke’s probably getting worried.”

With agreement from both Cass and Jason they said their goodbyes. Barbara gave one last hug to Jason and promised Tim a full computer tour next time. 

Together they headed down the stairs, a cab waiting for them across the street. 

They had found a name, found a little more trust.

And had a few things they needed to explain to Duke.

Chapter Text

Dick sprinted out of the room, leaving a terrified Duke behind him.

Was the situation ideal–not in the slightest. But he had run out of options. And the Joker was here.

The monster that killed his brother. 

He paused for an instant, giving himself a second to take in a breath–to collect himself. 

Bats don’t kill. But he’s Nightwing. Bats don’t kill.

The sirens continued wailing around him. They weren’t helping.

Thirty seconds after he left the room Barbara’s voice crackled in his ear. “Joker’s three doors down. B’s about seven minutes out.”

Dick inhaled sharply. Beating the Joker one on one was a longshot, but he’d done it before. Worst-case he could distract the man for long enough for backup to arrive. 

Dick stormed into the room. 

The lights immediately hit him–they were a blinding light and continued to pulse on and off in random patterns. They were disorienting enough that without his domino he could have gotten a horrible headache. 

In the center of the chaos the Joker stood, laughing. 

In a moment their eyes locked. 

“Hello there, little bird!” 

Dick growled “Joker.”

No quips, no games. He wouldn’t do this dance. Not ever again. 

The Joker’s smile widened, as if overjoyed by the unexpected display of aggression. 

Dick struck low, jamming an escrima stick straight into the Joker’s gut. The hit should've hurt–but the man didn’t even flinch.

Dick swung again, but this time the blow was stopped by the Joker’s cane, now with a shiny blade sticking out of it.

A voice sounded in his ear.

“B’s three minutes out. Nightwing just hold on.”

He ducked, barely missing a swing from the Joker’s fist, but the movement left his side unprotected. The blade cut his stomach, the suit only doing so much. 

It pissed him off. 

Dick felt his attacks grow more and more ferocious, unrelenting. Blows were shared. And soon the two were circling 

“One minute out.” 

The Joker grinned at him, blood streaming down nose. 

“Is Batsy coming for his little birdy?”

Dick snarled, “I can take care of you myself.”

The two moved closer.

The Joker laughed “Just like the other little bird did? What was his name… Jason? That’s what his mommy told me!”

The Joker leaned in close, his teeth red  “I’m sure your screams’ll sound just like his.”

“You let him die thinking his big brother abandon him.”

“THIRTY SECONDS”

Dick didn’t hesitate. He launched a final strike with the escrima sticks lighting up with electricity. 

Mid-motion he pivoted, aiming for the head. 

He made contact.

And the Joker’s eyes widened. 

The monster made a noise–something like a laugh and a shriek–but there was no pain, no anger, no regret. It was just hollow, empty. 

Just one final deranged noise. 

And all Dick could hear was his beating heart.

He stumbled backwards as he felt the blood covering him, every part of it itching. His weapons dropped from his hands.

And he was on the floor. 

“ NIGHTWING SOUND IN.”

His voice echoed in his comm. He ignored it.

“NIGHTWING.”  

It wasn’t in his ear this time. He felt someone checking his pulse. Then the person shook him.

“Report. Nightwing report.”

He looked up and his eyes locked on to Bruce’s face.

He took a breath and stood up, reigning in his storm of emotions. 

“He’s dead.”

Batman–It wasn’t Bruce right now–checked him over one more time and then rushed over towards the body. He watched as the man came to the realization the Joker wasn’t coming back.

Dick left the room, shutting off his comms and trackers.

He could still see the camera’s flashing, proof Barbara was still watching over him.

For a moment he sat in a hallway, taking deep breaths, then the alarms turned off. 

It was pure, blissful silence.

Then…

Duke

He had to make sure the kid got somewhere safe, right now might not be the ideal time, but it was now or never.

Standing up he took one final shaky breath, and pushed his emotions down, he could think about this later.

Slowly he made his way to the room, walking louder when he got close to the door, so he wouldn’t be a surprise.

He entered the room, making sure his presence is known  “Duke, you better still be here,” 

If he’s not, Dick might actually lose it. 

He breathes a slight sigh of relief as the kid pops up, eyes wide.

“Nightwing! You’re–whoa you’re covered in blood.”

Dick blinked and looked down. He was covered in blood. 

He just walked into Duke’s parents room covered in the dead Joker’s blood.

“Comes with the job kid.” He winced, his voice didn’t sound convincing in the slightest.

“Are you…okay.”

“Yeah.” Dick answered automatically then processed the question. 

Apparently a civilian would ask what his dad mentor didn’t. 

“It’s not mine.”

Duke grimaced, and Dick immediately realized he said the wrong thing. 

The shadows in the room shifted, just slightly. 

Dick’s guard went back up  “Who else is in here?”

Then figures stood. 

One was a girl with blue eyes and black hair. Same girl from the warehouse.

Next to her was Tim Drake.

For a moment Dick’s brain stalled. “You’re Tim Drake.”

The kid smiled awkwardly, shoulders tense.

“That’s me, Dukes staying with me.”

That wasn’t good. Dick wasn’t sure what the Drake’s would want with a Joker victim. 

He paused.

Weren’t the Drakes out of the country? He remembered them bragging about their eighth month expedition to Greece because of some rare architectural find. Shouldn’t Tim be with them?

 “How do you all know each other?”

Duke answered “We met each other at the warehouse and I decided to stay with him and his cousin.”

Dick didn’t think Jack or Janet had siblings “Cousin?”

“Yep,” Tim pushed the girl from the warehouse in front of him. 

 “She’s a very, very , distant relative from Europe.”

Dick did not believe him for a second. But right now, he just couldn’t deal with it.

“Listen, I know Tim is being… charitable,” He voiced, trying to get Duke to listen. 

He could see this argument wouldn’t go anywhere, but he had to try. 

“but it really would be better if you came with me.”

Dick almost faltered at the sad face Duke gave him, but he kept looking him in the eyes.

Then Tim stepped forward, and Dick saw steel in his gaze.

“Nightwing. Duke’s staying with us.”

“Tim.” Dick could feel his patience fraying. “It’d be better for everyone if he stayed with us.”

“I know who you are.” 

That startled a slight smile out of him. He didn’t think anyone would be this bold, and Tim seemed defensive of Duke. 

Maybe they’d be all right together. 

But he took another look at Tim’s face and frowned. The kid seemed dead serious.

“Is that so?” He said coolly, “And how would you know that?”

Tim huffed, and crossed his arms, “Both of you were complete dicks.”

Dick froze.

This was not happening. 

There was no way this twelve year old kid knew who they were.

He spoke before he could think

“How…”

Dick cursed at himself, if Tim wasn’t sure now, he just had confirmation.

A “Wait, what?” came from Duke but Dick ignored him.

“It’s a long story, but I haven’t told anyone, and if you let Duke stay with us… I won’t.”

Dick just stared.

“Are you blackmailing me?”

“No!” Tim said quickly “Just giving you a good reason to have Duke stay with us.”

“That’s blackmailing.”

He turned away for a second, attempting to regain his composure. 

He knew he wasn't going to separate them, so he made a plan. He turned around and smiled.

“Alright, you got me.”

Tim blinked in surprise.

“But I have a condition.”

He muffled a laugh as annoyance fell on Tim’s face.

“What do you want?”

“You have to check in with me. Regularly. You know who I am–tell your friends, and you’ll see me soon.”

He watched Tim glance at his friends, as they all nodded. 

“Okay, I agree.” Tim glanced at the clock “But you have to get us out of the hospital in the next twenty minutes.”

Dick grinned

“How do you feel about flying?”

He had helped the kids grapple down to the next roof, and exchanged phone numbers. He knew Tim would end up telling the others about his identity, so he gave them his civilian phone.

After that he flew off and saw the batmobile exciting the hospital. It stopped in front of the building Dick was on. Likely reading his suit trackers.

There was a crackle in his ear

“ N” It was Barbara “Do you want me to get him off of your tail”

Dick sighed “No, he’ll find me eventually, best get this over with.”

“ Alright, but if you need anything, I’m here.”

He smiled “Thanks O.”

He went and entered the batmobile, Bruce didn’t even glance his way.

They arrived at the cave silently. As soon as they got off their bikes Bruce turned to him. 

Dick beats him to it.

“I’m not going to apologize.”

“Nightwing–”

“My name is Richard, Bruce. And I prefer to go by Dick.” He sighs “You know this.”

“I…” Bruce stumbles “Okay.”

Dick raised an eyebrow “That’s it? Okay?”

“What else do you want me to say?’ Bruce sounds almost strangled.

And Dick lost it.

“I don’t know. How about comforting your son who just killed a man?”

Dick felt his hands shaking. 

“Or if you can’t do that, maybe apologize ? Is that so hard?”

Bruce took a step back “You’re not happy?”

“ Happy? In what world would I be happy” He was yelling now. “I just killed someone.”

The two stare at each other for a moment. And Dick watched Bruce falters. Then Bruce’s face grows angry.

“ I’m mad because you were careless, reckless, and stupid.” Bruce roared, " I'm mad because I almost had to bury another son! ”

Dick freezes. 

“You, lying there, I thought I would have had to bury another child.” His voice was quiet now. “I don't know how to fix it.”

Time starts ticking by. 

It’s not an apology.

But it’s something.

And…

He can’t do this. Dick can’t do this. It’s not that easy. He doesn't have to accept, not after…

Dick turns away, taking a deep breath. 

“It might already be too late.” His voice is colder than he expected it to be.

Dick starts walking away, ignoring the pang in his chest. He doesn’t have to forgive, not yet. 

“Wait.”

Dick pauses, waiting for the lecture to come.

“Have Alfred check out your wounds before you retire.” The words are stiff, but Dick can still feel some emotion behind them. 

He responds with a dry chuckle “Like I was gonna get past Alfred.”

And just like that he walks up the stairs leaving Bruce behind. 

Walking up to the manor he went to the kitchen where Alfred had prepared him hot chocolate, due to the no coffee after patrol rule.

The man smiled at him and left, likely sensing Dick needed his space. 

He quietly sat and went over the night's events, thinking of the Joker, thinking of the kids. It dawned on him he never got Tim’s not-cousin’s name. 

He would text Tim tomorrow, give him a couple days heads-up.

Dick finished his drink and went to bed.

The next few days passed in a blur, he had texted Tim pretty late the next night giving the kid a two days heads-up. He would be going to Drake manor whether or not he got a response. 

He had been benched for a week due to injuries so he had gotten a bit of extra sleep. Other than that he Dick had gotten some work done, and caught up on newly-released movies.

Then the day arrived and Dick headed over to Drake Manor, which was only a couple of minutes drive away. It was probably not even a half-hour walk, shorter if he cut through the fences. 

Staring at the door of Drake manor he pushed down the doorbell, and he could hear the noise echoing through the halls. 

There was a muffled “Be right there.” and a few seconds later 

Tim opened the door and gave Dick a smile that he would see at the galas.

“Hello!” He moved to the side “Both Duke and Cass are in the living room.”

Dick made a mental note of the girl's name and followed Tim inside. Entering the living room he saw a massive pillow fort set up, half of it falling over.

“You’ve been busy.”

Tim blushed and Duke grinned. 

“Yeah! Apparently Tim had never built a pillow fort before, isn't that wild!”

Dick frowned slightly, but quickly hid it when he saw Tim appraising him. 

“You told them.”

It wasn’t a question, and Tim didn’t take it as one.

“Both Duke and Cass know who everyone is.”

Dick paused. “Wait. You know everyone?”

Instead of confirming or denying, Tim listed the names “Batman, Bruce Wayne; Oracle, Barbara Gordon; Agent A, Alfred Pennyworth; and Robin… Jason Todd.” 

Jason’s name was quiet, said with an air of sadness. 

“How?” His voice was quiet from the mention of Jason. 

“It wasn’t that hard.”

Tim got elbowed in the stomach by Duke and Cass just shook her head quietly. 

“Well, I watched you perform one night, and you promised you’d do a special flip!”

Dick suddenly remembered the little kid that night. He took in a quiet breath at the thought of Tim seeing his parents fall.

Oblivious to his thoughts, Tim barreled on “The announcer said only a few people could do the quadruple back-flip, and you were one of them. And then I saw the first Robin do the backflip and it had to be you.”

Dick was staring at him in shock, his face mirrored by both Duke and Cass who had evidently not heard this story before. 

He would have owed Jason so much money. 

Dick winced at his thought process and turned towards the group. 

Duke was throwing a pillow at Tim calling him a ‘mad genius.’ Tim retaliated and both boys were going at each other with pillows. Then Cass joined and destroyed both of them in an instant. 

The scene itched at the back of his mind, giving a feeling a deep sense of sadness, as well as something happier.

Dick watched for another moment then it dawned on him.

Tim, Duke, Cass, they reminded him of his relationship with Jason.

Or at least their later relationship. When Dick was finally able to see Jason as a brother, not as a replacement.

“Dick?” He looked up and saw Duke looking at him in worry.

“Are you okay? You look sad.”

Dick sighed “Yeah.”

“You all just remind me of my brother.”

It gets quiet, and he hears Tim inhale a breath.

“Sorry… I shouldn't have brought that up.”

“It’s fine.” Tim answered.

Duke rolled his eyes “What Tim’s trying to say is we don’t mind. If you ever need to get something off your chest, just talk to us.”

“Careful” Dick gives his brightest grin “I just might take you up on that.”

Tim grinned back and Duke rolled his eyes. “I’m serious.”

Dick stayed quiet, unsure how to respond. But Duke shifted the conversation away. 

They stayed like that for another few hours before Dick had to leave. As he stood in the doorway he looked over the trio and gave a small–but genuine–smile. 

“I will see you all soon.”

He was met with ‘goodbye’ and ‘see you later’ as he walked off, lighter than he had felt in a long time. 

Chapter Text

Tim sat quietly at the edge of the school building and watched as the buses started to drive away. He was waiting for Duke, who’d stayed behind to ask a question about a test–Tim didn’t have the teacher so he couldn’t help.

It had been a good few months; Batman was improving. And Dick started going back to Blüdhaven, though he still visited often. Tim had gone back to school, where Barbara had helped him come up with an identity with Duke. Both Cass and Jason were in online school. And every week Tim had been training in hacking–with the Oracle. 

Everything had been going great. 

Which, statistically, meant something had to go wrong very soon. 

Tim shook his head, trying to banish the thoughts from his head. He and Duke had been working on that–not immediately calculating the worst. 

Tim smiled as Duke walked out grinning. They had decided on the name ‘Luke Draper.’ Luke because it reminded him of Duke, he had wanted to keep a connection. And had Tim told him about Alvin Draper, and Duke refused to take any other last name. 

Tim wasn’t sure if Duke actually liked the name, or just found it hilarious.

Either way, it worked well. No one had recognized Duke except for a few close friends, but Duke had assured both Tim and Barbara that they wouldn’t say anything. 

Duke waved at Tim and ran over. 

“Everything's good!”

Tim clapped. Duke rolled his eyes. “I never had a doubt.”

The pair walked to the bus stop and got dropped off by Drake Manor.

On the walk to the house they passed by Wayne Manor. It had gotten a little bit lighter lately. Dick had been visiting more, probably because of them, but that's besides the point.

Batman hadn’t lashed out again. At least according to the news, Tim hadn’t been out since Duke arrived.

They saw Dick’s car in the driveway, and Tim gave himself a silent cheer. Nightwing would be out tonight. It was perfect. 

They entered the house and walked into the kitchen. Jason and Cass were sitting across from each other on the table. The two had gotten somewhat closer, but Jason would still lean on Tim and Duke before Cass. 

“How was school?” Jason asked 

“Fine, but I got another English essay.” Duke grumbled.

Tim wince sympathetically. They had separate English teachers and Dukes was… something special. 

“You need help?”

“Yeah, thanks Jason.”

Cass smiled at them. She still didn’t talk much, but it seemed to be more comfortable to her. They had all been learning sign language, and it worked perfectly fine. No one would push her. 

Jason had been talking more, he could hold out conversations. He only really faltered when they talked about the Bats, barring Barbara. He still went to her whenever Dick visited. 

The Duke and Tim joined them at the table, and Tim cleared his throat. 

“I’m going out tonight.

Jason blinked “Excuse me?”

“I want to go photograph the bats.” Tim said casually.

Jason and Duke both exploded at once. 

“Absolutely no way–”

“You have to be kidding–”

Tim turned to Cass for support.

Cass signed Can’t stop him, and shrugged but can go with him

“You don’t have to–”

“Nope” Duke cut in “Either me and Cass go with you, or you don’t go.”

“Hey! What about me.” Jason asked.

Tim hesitated, “I don’t know if you’re ready.” 

Jason took one look at him and stormed out of the room. Anger showing clearly on his face.

“Tim…” Duke muttered, “That was a bit harsh.”

“Yeah” Tim stared at the table, “it was. I’ll apologize later.”

Duke and Cass gave him The Look, but let it go. 

The three of them went into Tim’s closet where he found an all black stealth outfit for the other two.

Two hours later they were out the door–and only then Tim realized he hadn’t seen Jason.

~~~~~~~~~~

Tim hurriedly dragged them to a rooftop that Nightwing almost always stopped on his patrol route. They still had around fifteen minutes until he would be here, at the earliest. 

The three sat down and took out the sandwiches from a few nights ago.

“So, are you sure this is the right place?”

Tim looked offended “Of course, but he won’t be by for another fifteen minutes”

Duke hummed and started eating his sandwich. 

“So…” Tim tried to break the silence. It wouldn't have bothered him before, but lately everything has been so full of noise. Quiet made it easier to feel alone. 

Duke looked at him, and Tim saw a small amount of sadness in his eyes. Tim looked down.

“You stalk vigilantes.” Duke started, conversationally. 

“I do not stalk” Tim squawked. 

“You do.” Duke continued, “Have you ever thought about becoming one?”

“I guess.” Tim looked across the skyline “I don’t know if I could… I mean, I'm no Robin.”

Duke snorted. “And yet, you've already gone against the Joker, and mastered breaking and entering.”

Cass signed, Also reckless, very stupid. 

Tim raised his head, in mock betrayal. “Et tu Cass.”

Jason would be proud. 

“What would you call yourself?”

Tim looked at him, all past misdeeds forgotten “Like my codename.”

“Your vigilante name.”

“Oh.” Tim thought about it. “I guess I’d want a bird theme.”

“Obviously,”Duke snorted. 

“Hey! It would fit Gotham!”

Kiwi Cass offered 

“I’m not gonna be Kiwi.”

Duke grinned “What about Emu?”

“Shut up.”

“I was thinking something like Cardinal or Thrush, maybe Skylark.”

Duke laughs “You sure you wouldn’t want to be called Bee-Eater?”

“Nooooo” Tim whined. “Besides, if you're so good at names, what would you choose?”

Duke was quiet for a moment “I’m not sure.”

He paused, thoughtfully, “Maybe something about light. Like a guide at night.” 

Tim smiled softly, “That’s fitting.”

They both turned to Cass, she smiled.

She signed Like my name, someone strong, who can protect, 

Tim thought about it. “Cassandra is Greek, right?”

Cass nodded. 

“You could be a Greek goddess.”

Duke nodded “That would be fitting, you are mysterious and scary strong.”

Cass grinned. 

“What do you think Jason would be?” Duke questioned. “If he wasn't Robin.”

Tim snorted, “Knowing him, something dramatic. Like Wraith or Ghost.”

“Over-the-top theater kid.” Duke sighed.

They laughed quietly and easily, then Tim checked his watch. 

Duke got his gaze “He’s coming?”

“Anytime now.”

“Are we sure this is a good idea?”

“Don’t worry, he can’t stay mad at us.” Tim added. “We’ll just let him choose the next film for movie night.” 

There was a clatter and Tim looked up.

It wasn’t Nightwing. 

A figure in a back costume landed right next to them. 

Cass immediately stepped forward pushing Duke and Tim behind her. The figure raised up his hands, and immediately took off his hood, a domino mask under it. But the face was still recognizable.

“Jason?”

He nodded.

“Dude, you scared us.” Duke said, exhaling “I thought we were about to get mugged.” 

Jason grinned “I couldn’t let you go alone.”

Tim shook his head. On one hand he was grateful Jason was feeling well enough to be out here with them. On the other:

“Jason, you shouldn’t be here.”

Jason's grins fell and he scowled. 

“Why not? Don’t think I can handle it?”

“What!” Tim shook his head quickly “No, it's just….”

Jason glared. 

“What if someone sees you?” Tim finally says. 

“Then someone sees me.” Jason scoffed “Who would look at me and think I’m the dead Wayne?”

“What if Nightwing sees you?”

That made Jason pause. Tim knew he had been getting a lot better, but there was still hesitation behind Jason's thoughts of Dick. Besides, 

Tim didn’t know what Nightwing would do if he saw Jason. Barabra didn't believe him at first, but Dick was closer to Jason. Would he know immediately? Or would he attack, believing someone had stolen Jason’s body?

Worst case Tim knew he might be able to convince Dick to call Barabra–if she wasn’t already on comms–but who knows if that would really work. And if Dick did believe him, what was stopping the man from going straight to Bruce?

“I would be fine.” Jason said, catching the look in Tim’s eyes. 

“No offense.” Duke argued “But you still flinch whenever Dicks name comes up.”

“I said I'm fine!” Jason stated, obviously annoyed. 

Cass joined in We want you safe

“I would be perfectly safe!” Jason’s voice grew. “I am fine.”

Tim opened his mouth–but another voice interrupted him. 

“Excuse me.”

They all spun. Nightwing. 

 He heard Jason flip his hood back on, even though there was still a domino mask under it.

“Hey! Nightwing!” Duke grinned. “Crazy seeing you out here… great weather we’re having.”

Cass ran her hand over her face. Tim groaned. Jason stood, his hand twitching slightly. 

“Okay… so that wasn’t the best response, but none of you were saying anything!”

Dick sighed, sounding more like he found Duke lost in the halls again. And not like he was standing before him in Nightwing. 

“Do I even want to know?” He questioned.

“Nope.” Tim said

“Yeah.” Duke added “Just let us walk away and pretend this never happened.”

Cass waved a dismissive danger. 

And Jason just stood there, staring. 

Dick sighed “Alright, from the top. What are you all doing out here?”

When nobody answered Dick’s face grew more serious. 

“Batman is going to ask for my status in the next few minutes.” He started “And I can not lie to him, if he feels like something is off he will check my suit camera.”

“And I’m not leaving until you tell me what you all are doing out here.”

Tim sighed, there wasn’t really a way around this. He knew that Dick had realized he wouldn’t actually blackmail them. It could put everyone at risk. It was a losing battle.

“I take pictures.”

“Of…” Dick promoted.

“You, and the other Bats.”

Dick nodded, then froze. “You said you saw me do a flip as Robin. ”

“Tim.” Tim knew that tone “How long have you been doing this.”

Both Cass and Duke were looking at him now, Jason's eyes still on Dick.

“Ah… well. Since I was nine.”

Jason swiveled his head staring wide at Tim.

“Nine!”

Dick looked as though he finally noticed Jason and frowned. 

“How?”

Tim looked awkwardly at Dick. “I guess you just never really noticed me.”

A strange wave of sadness hit him.

Cass took one look at him and went over to give him a hug, Tim felt himself melting. Duke had positioned himself so he was slightly covering Jason, just in case. 

“Would you listen if I told you to never do this again?”

Tim made a so-so motion with his hand, still being crushed by Cass.

“Don’t worry,” Duke held up his panic button “We have these just in case!”

Dick stared at it, and a wave of realization crossed his face. “You’ve met Oracle?”

“Yeah” Tim finally got out of Cass’s hug. “Her computers are the coolest.”

Dick let out an exhale, but looked a little less tense. 

“Just stay away from the rouges.”

“I don’t have a death wish.” Tim grumbled. 

“Uh. Tim.”

Tim looked over at Duke. 

“What?”

“You literally went after the Joker, solo, because you saw me on the news.”

Cass shoved Duke lightly. 

“Well he didn’t know you’d be there.”

Dick smiled, then looked over at Jason. “Who is this?”

Jason stopped his twitching and froze, looking down on the ground.

Tim panicked “I don’t know!” 

“You don’t know.” Dick looked at Jason with suspicion. 

“He’s been my partner for years, just showed up one day and helped me take photos. I never asked for his name.”

Duke and Cass nodded along with Tim. Dick still seemed suspicious. 

“He doesn’t talk much.” Dick stated.

“He’s really shy.” Duke added “And he is like your number one fan, so it’s a lot right now.”

Dick was about to answer but there was a crackle on his comm. He swore and readied his grapple. 

Launching it he gave the group a look that was a very obvious ‘we’ll talk later’ and shot into the night. 

Jason immediately relaxed and the three of them shot over to him.  

“Are you okay?”

Jason sighed, “Yeah.”

“I think I'm almost ready.”

Tim smiled and offered his hand. Jason took it, and Tim felt the hand shaking. 

Cass smiled and put a hand on Jason’s shoulder. 

“Whenever you’re ready.” Duke said “So will we.”

Chapter Text

It had been around a week since the ‘patrol incident.’ They had managed to make it home and hide Jason before Dick had gotten to Drake Manor.

Tim now owed Barabra a favor for stalling Dick. She wasn’t supposed to be online that night, but Tim had texted her. 

He really hoped he wouldn’t have to untangle the wires under the desk, that would be a nightmare.

Either way, Dick had still come and gotten really mad at them, which was fair. Cass couldn’t even distract him with a promise for a movie. 

It was safe to assume Tim would never be able to take photos of the Bats again, no that they were aware of him.

But it was fine. Sure he didn’t leave his room for two days, but he had just left a piece of his childhood behind. It hurt, besides Jason ended up luring him out with waffles. 

He headed into the kitchen where Jason and Duke were discussing his English essay on The Giver.

It was one of the few books from English class Duke really enjoyed, so–of course–Jason hated the book. 

They were arguing about why it was bad–Jason mainly calling the sentences long and dry, while Duke argued that was the point of the book. 

Tim ignored them and went to sit next to Cass. She smiled at him and offered him a pancake. He grinned back, and took it. The two of them watched Jason and Duke argue in silent amusement. 

It was nice to see Duke so happy, and Jason talking this much. 

It was nice to see their improvement.

The phone in his pocket vibrated. He took it out, expecting to see a message from Dick, probably giving them another lecture.

He froze.

Mother (Janet Drake): We will be arriving home tomorrow evening at 5:00. Have the house ready.

Timothy Drake: Of course! I am excited for you to be back.

(Read 10:15)

Tim realized the arguing had stopped, he looked up and saw the three of them staring at him. He offered a smile.

“My parents will be back tomorrow!” His voice cracked slightly with excitement. 

The room grew cold. 

Duke was avoiding his gaze, and seemed nervous. Jason looked like he was about to do something dumb, staring at Tim’s phone with a murderous gaze. And Cass was giving him a weighted look he couldn’t decipher. 

Then it hit him. 

“Oh!” Jason's eyes snapped to him, expectant. “Barbara’s out of town, you don’t have anywhere to stay.”

Duke ran his hands over his face. Tim smiled, triumphant. 

“Don’t worry, I’ll just rent a hotel, they won’t notice.”

Jason threw his hands up. “That’s not a good thing!”

“It is though.” Tim said, “It means you get a place to stay.”

“He’s an idiot.” Duke muttered. 

Tim ignored him and looked down at the text again. Now that the surprise had faded, he felt something in the pit of his stomach. He didn’t know what it meant… but it felt bad. 

He was shaken out of his thoughts by the doorbell. He went over to open it. It couldn't be his parents, right? They would never give him the wrong time. He looked out the peephole.

That was not good.

He looked behind him, to where the others had followed him. “Jason, it’s Dick. You need to get out of here.”

Jason looked at Tim, a hundred emotions flickered across his face. “No.”

“ What.” Tim demanded. 

“I want to see him.”

“Of course you do.” Duke muttered. “Why plan ahead? Let's just improvise every moment of our lives.”

Tim sighed, “Fine, but not in here. I’ll talk to Dick first, tell him it’ll be alright.”

“I can take him to the sitting room,” Cass signed.

“Perfect.” Tim said. 

He watched as Cass led Jason to the sitting room, and smiled slightly at their progress. Tim opened the door, excited and shut it behind him. 

Dick raised his eyebrow at that, but decided to ignore it. 

“You didn’t give us a heads-up.” Tim said.

“Yeah, sorry about that.” Dick said, sounding genuinely apologetic, “Something came up in Blüdhaven, and I left some stuff here last time.”

Tim exhaled slowly. “Alright. I’ll let you in, but you have to promise me you won’t freak out.”

“And why would I freak out?” Dick said, voice instantly weary.  

“It’s not bad. Actually it’s really good. And I promise it’s real.”

“That didn’t answer my question.”

Tim ignored him and opened the door. At the corner of his eye he could see Dicks hand moving slightly towards some of his hidden weapons. 

Duke joined them, and they silently walked to the sitting room. 

He felt the exact moment Dick noticed. The air changed. The tension in his body spiked, and he began to breathe rapidly. 

“Hey Dickwing,” Jason said softly. 

Dick looked at Tim desperately. 

 “Barbara already ran some tests, it’s him.” Tim assured him. 

Another moment was spent with just the two staring. Tim could see Jason starting to get nervous.

Then Dick moved. Duke yelped in alarm, and Cass immediately surged forward–but stopped when she realized what was happening. 

Dick crushed his arms around Jason, trembling as he embraced his brother. 

“JasonJasonJasonJasonJason.” Dick quietly chanted like a mantra. 

“Missed you too.” Jason whispers, voice cracking with emotion. 

Both of them were crying. 

The hug went on. No one interrupted, but Dick began swaying. 

Jason tapped his hand on his back, steadying him. 

“Why don’t we sit down,” Jason suggested gently. 

And just like that, the five of them were all sitting on the couch, drawn together like magnets.

“How?” Dick asked, broken and raw. 

“Don’t really know.” Jason said, sounding somewhat bitter. “I remember the… the warehouse, then darkness.”

His voice cracked and everyone moved closer. 

“Then the next thing I know, I’m being lifted out of my grave by our neighbor.”

Dick’s expression darkened. “Your grave, it was destroyed in the middle of June.”

Jason let out a dry laugh “Yep, I destroyed my own grave. How many people can say that?.”

Dick didn’t listen to him, instead turning to Tim, “You’ve known my brother was alive for months and you didn’t tell me.”

Duke immediately pressed towards Tim. Cass leaned in on the other side–a silent show of support. 

“I…” Tim stuttered. 

“I begged him not to go to you.” Jason said. 

Dick looked over at Jason, and his anger faltered. “You blamed us.”

It wasn’t a question. Jason didn’t take it as one. 

“I still do.”

 Dicks face crumbled “But, I can see it wasn’t anyone's fault. But…”

“It still hurts, your family not saving you.” Dick finished, looking like he had taken a hit to the chest. 

Jason nodded silently. 

Dick’s phone chimed and he cursed.

“Language.” Jason said, almost on instinct.

Dick rolled his eyes, but his face fell. “Somethings happening in Blüd, and if I don’t get there…”

He looked at Jason, clearly torn. 

“They can handle it.” His voice was laced with steel.

Tim thought about it. “Maybe they could go with you?”

Everyone looked at him in surprise.

“My parents are coming home tomorrow, and they should stick around for a bit. Maybe they could stay with you?”

Dick hesitated “Only if Jason is okay with it.”

Jason exhaled ‘Yeah, I’ll be okay.”

Dick smiled softly. 

“Wait” Cass looked at Tim “How long it ‘a bit’”

Tim frowned “At longest a week, but I’m sure it’ll be more like three or four days.”

Dick’s jaw clenched. And everyone grew tense.

“It’s just a few days.” Tim said quickly, “What’s the harm?”

Dick sighed and looked at Tim, “You’re welcome to join me too, if you want to stay with your friends.”

“Family.” Duke corrected.

Dick smiled knowingly, casting a glance at Jason, who looked away. 

“I’m good,” Tim said “I’m actually really excited to see them.”

Dick looked as though he wanted to argue–but his phone chimed again. 

“Alright, we’ve got to go.” Dick said standing up, still keeping a hand on Jason's shoulder. 

They hugged once more at the door. This time tighter, more reluctant. 

Jason lingered. Cass kept looking back. And Duke hesitated.

Tim stood in the doorway, “I’ll be fine. Promise.” He assured them. 

But when the door clicked shut…

The silence hit him like a wave.

It was quiet. 

Really quiet. 

The sinking feeling in Tim’s stomach returned. 

… 

And for the first time in a long while, Tim remembered how much he hated silence . 

Chapter Text

Tim had just finished cleaning when the clock struck 4:50. Ten minutes–in ten minutes, he would see his parents. 

He could ignore the silence until then.

The kitchen smelled like garlic and tomato, the area still warm from where Tim had reheated Jason’s pasta. If everything went well they would be having a family dinner in less than a half-hour. 

At 4:55, Tim stood at the front door, ready to help with bags. 

At 5:00 he walked outside back held straight. 

No one was there, 

Frowning he checked his message, the text had said 5:00.

Then it clicked.

The plane must have landed at 5:00–they wouldn’t be arriving right now. It’d still be a bit before Tim would see them. He went inside and sat down, letting out a shaky breath as he watched the clock. 

He could be patient. 

It was simple. 

At 6:09, Tim finally opened the flight tracker. Maybe the flight was delayed? 

Nope. It landed at 4:15, his parents should be back right now. 

His stomach dropped. 

What if there was an accident? What if something had happened, what if–

Bing

He grabbed his phone immediately. 

Carol Valerie — Secretary

‘Hello Timothy. Due to an opportunity your parents found, they will not be arriving home tonight. The new dig should last at least another three months.’

Tim blinked. 

Timothy Drake

‘Thank you for the information. I appreciate you telling me.’

The text bubble appeared, then vanished. A moment later it came back and the phone buzzed.

Carol Valerie — Secretary 

‘Of course. Stay safe.’

Timothy Drake

‘Yes ma’am.’

Tim stared at the screen, expecting disappointment to hit him like a punch. 

But all he felt was an empty, hollow feeling. The disappointment lingered, with no surprise at all

He walked upstairs and laid on his bed, staring at the ceiling. Everything around him was too clean. 

Too stale. 

His phone pinged. And he fumbled it out–heart racing–hope building in his chest.

#1 Shadow Sister

‘Hi! Is it going well?’

Tim stared at the message.

 He typed the truth. Then deleted it. 

Illegal Birdwatcher

‘Yeah! We’re eating dinner right now, and we’re going to see a movie later.’

Tim flipped his phone on his face and sighed.

Twenty minutes later he was out in Gotham with just his camera and phone. No dark outfit or mask. It was risky, but Tim couldn’t find it within himself to care.

Besides, it would be fine, Nightwing was in Blüdhaven, and Batman didn’t know about Tim’s nightly adventures yet.

Besides, it had been months, the patrol routes have probably changed. What were the chances he would run into–

Swish

Tim froze as a shadow landed on the roof beside him. 

Apparently the chances were high–very high. 

Tim took out his camera and began to position it. 

Click .

Batman was writing something down. Evidence? Notes?

Click .

Tim would have to see if he could hack into the Batcomputer again. He wondered if the security improved. 

Click . 

Why did he look so… sad? 

Oh. 

Batman had looked over at the ice cream shop he used to take Jason to. 

Click .

Tim lowered the camera slightly. 

Did Bruce really love Jason that much? Enough to lose himself over?

Click .

Can someone care that deeply? 

Did his parents care that much?

Click . 

Tim hid the camera in his bag. 

He always believed Batman had gone off the rails because of Jason. That the grief caused the lashing out. 

But, could that really be it?

Tim stepped out of the shadows before he could second-guess himself.

 Batman's gaze immediately found him.

For a moment the two stared at each other for a moment before Batman landed in front of him. 

“What are you doing?” Batman’s voice was sharp. 

Tim had a brief moment to reconsider all of his life choices.

He swallowed hard. “I have a question.”

Batman narrowed his eyes. “And you decided to come to me ?”

“Yes.”

A pause. Batman seemed to look at Tim with an undercurrent of concern. “What do you want to know?”

Tim exhaled “Why did you start hurting people like that, was it really just… because of Robin?”

Batman answered, but this time his voice was gentle. Tim realized the man probably thought something was wrong.

“What do you know about us?” Batman questioned, but it wasn’t as harsh as earlier. 

He wasn’t asking if Tim knew his identity, there wouldn’t have been a way to lie out of that. Luckily, Tim could work with this.

Tim chose his words carefully. “You were Robin’s dad.”

Batman flinched, but just barely. 

“Yes.”

“And you did all those things… just because of Robin, no other reason?”

Batman’s face had shifted, and his words gained much more weight. “What I did was unacceptable. But yes, it was because of him.”

“Oh” Tim’s voice was small, and filled with wonder. “I didn’t know people could care like that.”

“Why are you asking this?” Batman questioned.

Tim froze. 

He couldn’t just admit the truth. That he was worried his parents wouldn’t care. Jason, Cass and Duke, they would. But his parents,  it could take them months to just notice he was gone. 

“I… My dad died.” Tim lied “My mom tells me great things about him, but I wanted to know if someone can really care that much.”

Batman relaxed just slightly at Tim’s words. His expression hadn’t changed, but it felt softer, quieter. 

“I’m sure your father would have truly cared for you,” he said. Then his voice hardened. “But you shouldn’t be out here at night alone.” 

Batman finally turned away “I don’t want to see you out here again.”

“Yes, Batman, Sir.” Tim mumbled. 

The Bat disappeared in a shadow, and Tim realized something.

Batman hadn’t recognized him.

He hadn’t worn the mask he had with him in the other encounters. And with the lighting and make-up Tim was just another civilian. 

Small victories. 

Looking across the rooftops he spotted Batman moving quickly. 

But someone was following him.

A small shadow, sticking close to the Bat. Barely noticeable. Then–they tripped.

Batman turned instantly and gave chase.

Tim frowned, wondering who was about to get caught, but started heading back towards Drake manor. 

He was good for the night. 

His phone buzzed. The caller I.D was just a mix of things that couldn’t exist on any phone.

Only one person he knew could do that. 

He answered “Hey O.”

“ Timothy Jackson Drake ,” Barbara snapped, " what were you thinking ?” 

“I–” 

“You somehow found the one place in Gotham I can’t monitor and cornered Batman .”

“I had a question.” Tim defended.

Barbara ignored him. “Do the others know you're out here?”

“Um” Tim rubbed the back of his neck, ignoring the sigh of exasperation on the other end.  “They are all in Blüdhaven with Dick.”

“All of them… even?”

“Yeah.” Tim answered, “He took it well.”

Barbara's voice had softened. “And why aren't you with them?”

“My parents are coming in tomorrow!”

Tim wanted to scream at his response. He hated how easily the excuse came out. 

There was a quiet noise on the other end. 

“Tim.” She said gently,  “I need you to go home and stay there. If your parents do show up, they can't see you sneaking around. Besides, I can’t watch you the next few nights, I'm off comms.”

“Off?” Tim questioned. 

“I won’t be able to watch you at night. I know J and C reign you in, so please don’t go out without them.”

“How long?”

“Four days.” She responded “Can you do four days?”

Tim closed his eyes. “Yeah, I can do four. 

“Thank you.” She sounds relieved “I have to close for the night, can you get home safe.”

“Yes.” .

They exchanged quick goodbyes.

Tim started walking towards a bus stop to get him closer to Drake manor.

He crossed a road, and cut into an alleyway as a shortcut. 

That’s when he heard it. 

A scrape. It was too close.

He turned–

Something cold touched his neck.

A blade. 

A child’s voice. It was far too cold–too calm. 

“Who are you? And why are you speaking to my father?”

Chapter Text

“What?” Tim blurted out

The kid snarled, “Why are you following my father?”

Tim blinked. He had no idea what the kid was talking about. The only person he had followed was–

“Batman.” 

“Yes you imbecile. Now tell me what you were doing.”

A strangled laugh almost escaped Tim’s lips. Apparently Batman had a child. A child that is  currently holding a sword to his neck.

“Your dad is Batman. Batman has a child.” 

It wasn’t a question. Of course Batman had some sort of child intent on murdering Tim. Honestly, with how Tim’s life had been going, this tracked.

The kid growled– actually growled– and the sword drew closer. 

“My name is Damian Al Ghul Wayne, and you will answer my question.”

Al Ghul? Tim remembered Barbara mentioning someone named Ra’s Al Ghul in passing. Something about a League, and a warning to never go near him. 

“Shut up!” Tim said with a panicked hiss.

Too late, he realized he was probably going to get a matching death certificate with Jason.

As expected the sword pressed even closer, starting to cut through Tim’s skin. “Excuse me?”

His voice dropped to a whisper “I… you can’t yell out Batman’s last name like that. Someone could hear”

The sword went back slightly, Tim could feel blood running down his neck. The sword cut deep. Not just a nick, a real cut.

“Where do you live?” The kid asked. Something new in his voice. He sounded a little nervous now. Whether it was from possibly exposing Batman or from the blood, Tim couldn’t tell.

Tim decided to gamble 

“Drake Manor.” And wow, he could barely speak

 “Bandages… first box in front hallway.” 

There was a huff from the kid and a pinch on his neck.

Then—Darkness.

~~~~~~~~~

Tim woke with a jolt, and his neck burned.  

He was sitting at his table with his wrists tied to a chair .

“What?” Tim’s voice cracked, His voice felt like sandpaper, and his throat burned where the sword had scratched it.

But he could feel the bandages, at least the kid–Damian–had been kind enough to prevent him from bleeding out. 

Damian's gaze sharpened. “You’re awake.” He said simply. 

“Yes.” Tim rasped again, but it was smoother.

He could breathe mostly normal, and was still getting out words. That hopefully meant he didn't have any permanent damage. 

“You know who Batman is.” Damian continued. “You weren’t surprised when I said his last name.”

Tim looked down—down because this kid was not older than ten–and nodded slowly. 

“I do.” He said carefully.

“How.” Damian demanded. “No one should be able to figure out who Batman is.”

Tim weighed his options. On one hand he could try to resist and definitely get stabbed. On another he could cooperate and maybe not get stabbed.

Obvious choice.

“The first Robin. I recognized him from when I met him as a civilian..”

“So it was not father.” Damian huffed, “Rather his incompetent ward Richard Grayson.”

“Hey!” Tim blinked “Dick’s awesome.”

“Dick.” Damian's nose wrinkled.

“His chosen nickname.” 

The kid made a face of such horror Tim let out a snort. Damian glared at him from across the table but made no moves towards him. 

It was quiet for a moment.

“So.” The quiet made Tim nervous. “You’re Bruce Wayne’s son.”

“Yes. I am his rightful heir.”

“Who’s the mom?” Tim asked, completely unashamed. If it was a touchy subject he would drop it, but he was curious. Who would have a child with Batman?

Damian didn’t flinch “My mother is Talia Al Ghul. Daughter of Ra’s Al Ghul, the head of the League of Assassins.”

Well that explained his skill with the sword. And likely his personality. 

“Huh.”

“Are you not impressed?” Damian questioned, and Tim again realized he was talking to a child.

“Um. It sounds intense?” He tried. “I just don’t know what any of that means.”

Damian looked confused. “Did father not tell you about them? They are one of his greatest enemies.”

Tim’s mind stalled. Apparently the blood son of Batman thought he regularly talked to the third greatest vigilante in Gotham.

Granted he did talk to the two best–Jason and Barabra–regularly. But Batman? 

“I don’t know Batman or Bruce Wayne at all.” Tim admitted.

Damain looked at him incredulously. “What?”

Tim frowned “You literally asked why I was following Batman. If I knew him, why wouldn’t I be following him?”

Damian's ears turned slightly pink. 

“Wait.” Tim brightened “Were you trying to be intimidating?”

“I do not need to try to be intimidating. I already am.”

Tim untensed just slightly. More confident that he would get out of this situation without dying. He also may now sort of adore this kid. 

Quickly, Tim reminded himself that this kid had an alive and not dead, insane, or horrible father. 

But Bruce was a little unstable still. Dick didn’t like talking about him, so maybe Damian shouldn’t reunite with his dad yet…

Tim decided to push that into the back of his mind, and focus on what was happening now.

Perfectly healthy!

“So.” Tim asked “Now that you know I'm not a threat, can you please let me out?”

Damian moved closer, then paused. 

“You never answered my original question.” Hostility laced his voice again “Why were you following Batman.”

“I had to ask him a question.” 

“What sort of question would you need to ask Batman?”

“It’s private.” Tim immediately defended. 

“Tell me or I will not untie you.”

Tim groaned, he liked the child slightly less now.

“Fine.” Tim huffed “I asked him how much he loved Jason.”

Damian’s expression flickered, and he went quiet. Slowly he moved to untie the ropes around Tim.

When they slipped off his fingers tingled, and he brought his hands up to his throat. It stung, but he didn’t feel any blood coming through.

Tim looked down at the ropes.

Wait. Where did the kid even get the ropes? How long was he out?

“Shoot.” Tim mumbled.

The ropes fell behind him.

“What.” Damian asked.

“My family’s probably wondering where I'm at.”

Damian tilted his head, but followed Tim as he raced to the door, hoping the kid had grabbed his bag. Luckily it was there, covered in blood, but there. Tim grabbed his phone and looked at it.

It had been almost twenty four hours. 

It was already evening the next day. 

“Who are they?” Damian demanded, reading over his shoulder.

Tim smiled, “Cass, Jason, Duke and Dick.” 

“Dick… Grayson?”

“Yup.”

“You know Nightwing!” Damian looked at Tim with widened eyes. “How.”

“We first met when I broke into a warehouse to save Duke from the Joker.” Tim said proudly. “We first talked to him when we broke into a hospital. Dick’s been checking on us ever since!.”

Damian looked at him blank-faced for a moment, and Tim took the chance to reassure his family that he was alright. 

When he was done, Tim looked at Damian. He needed to help the kid get to Batman. But he also didn’t want Damian to leave. 

“Are you going to go to Bruce? Wayne Manor is right next door.” Tim asked, quietly. 

At that Damian looked nervous, almost scared. “I .”

“Do you have proof?” Tim asked.

“Proof?”

“Batman is Bruce Wayne. And Bruce Wayne has a lot of people… interested in him” Tim sighed “How would he know you’re not one of them?”

It was a legitimate concern. Tim wasn’t really sure how Bruce would react with a kid claiming to be his son, especially after Jason had died in the past year. Getting proof would help Damian’s case a lot. 

“I could get you a DNA test.” Tim offered. “It could be faked, but it would at least be something for Bruce to pause and look at.”

Damian looked Tim in the eyes “What must I do for it?”

“Nothing?” Tim said, confused. 

“There is always something.” Damian had fire in his eyes “I will not enter this deal without knowing what you gain.”

“Alright.” Tim backed off, but noticed Damian's triumphant smile. “You tell me your age and look at my photos and I’ll do it.”

Knowing the kids age would be useful and showing Damian the photos could get him excited about meeting Bruce. 

“That’s it?” Damian questioned. 

“Yep.” Tim answered, “Besides, I would also like to confirm you really are the son of Bruce Wayne, just in case.”

Damian glared, “Fine. I agree to your terms.”

“Well then, come on upstairs.”

They went up past Tim’s room, where normally blankets and pillows would be strewn around. Duke, Cass, Jason and Tim had taken to sleeping together every night.

 It helped for there to be other people when they woke up. It helped with the nightmares. 

He stopped quickly by the bathroom for some pain medicine, making sure to take the right dose. 

In the room next door, there was a lock. Inside of it was a bunch of stuff that Tim had gotten from Barabra. 

One of the things was a DNA tester. It was portable and made specifically for Bat purposes. Tim wasn’t entirely sure how it worked, but it did. 

When he asked for something like this Barbara had laughed, but she saw where Tim was coming from. 

It was both something to have just in case he needed to use it. Which was more likely than not with Tim’s luck. And–arguably more importantly–it was an option for Cass if she ever wanted to see who her parents were.

Tim was pretty sure Cass already knew, but it gave her options. 

Damian offered Tim his arm, and Tim pricked it. Getting a small amount of blood. 

Before he put it in he looked over at Damian. “Well. How old are you?”

Damian puffed up his chest “I am six years old!”

Tim exhaled sharply. He may not be the best judge of getting raised, but being able to threaten and restrain someone that much older than you does not show amazing parenting skills. 

Slowly he put the blood into the machine. 

Damian looked at it expectantly and Tim chuckled, “It’s gonna take around twelve hours.”

The kid pouted, and Tim already found himself entertained with how much more emotion Damian was showing. 

The kid was six. The sword wielding child was six.

“You mentioned photos.” Damian said, not looking too excited. 

“Oh yeah!.” Tim grinned “You’re gonna love this!”

He raced into his room, Damian at his side, refusing to get left behind. Inside he opened up his closet and went into the safe under a loose floorboard.

Was it overkill? 

Maybe. But that’s where some of his most treasured possessions were.

As Tim started opening the safe he asked “So what's the League of Assassins thing you were talking about?”

Damain scoffed “Is it not evident in the name?”

“Yeah, I guess.” Tim admitted “But why were you there?”

“I am training to be the next leader of the League.” Damian said.

“Training?”

“Yes.” Damian nodded, “I have learned many things to help me take control of my grandfather's throne.”

Tim… didn’t like how that sounded. Damian had said it with pride, but there was a flicker in his voice. Tim took a guess that the training wasn’t too kind.

“You know, that’s a lot for a six-year old.”

“I’ve been ready since I was four.” Damian snapped.

Tim didn’t respond. 

The safe clicked open and he pulled out the albums and moved to his bed.

“Why did you come to Gotham now?”

Damian was quiet for a moment “Mother finally told me who my father was. I was not supposed to meet him for a long time, but I wanted to know more.”

A quiet sigh “And she wouldn’t tell me more.”

Tim looked at Damian again, this time he saw the scars. Anger and sadness filled in him. He would make sure Damian got to Bruce, and that he wouldn’t go back there. 

“Well, I think you’ll like these.” Tim smiled, opening the first album. 

He heard Damian suck in a breath as he took in the photos. 

The photos of Batman, Batgirl, Nightwing, Robin. 

When Tim looked at Damian's face he saw the kid had let some of his guard down, looking at the photos in wonder. 

Tim passed him the book and the kid took it gently. 

Damian flipped through it page by page, as if it would disappear if he looked away.

Tim watched quietly, a sadness filling him.

He was six, and could hold a sword to someone's throat with no remorse.

He was six, and had more scars than Tim could count,

Damian was six, and looking at these photos like they were the most incredible thing he had ever seen.

Chapter Text

The two looked at the machine together, it was a match.

“Congrats!” Tim cheered, “you're a Wayne.”

“There was never a doubt.” Damian said dryly. 

“Then why do you look so happy?” Tim questioned. 

He got no response from Damian, the kid thinking it was above him. 

They were both quiet for a moment. Watching the blinking confirmed results on the screen. 

“So” Tim started. Damian's gaze snapping to his own. 

“You have two options. I could take you to Bruce right now…”

Damian fidgeted slightly and Tim looked at him. Was Damian nervous? How much had he heard about his father? Was he worried the Bat wouldn’t accept him as an assassin. 

Tim thought Bruce would, but he also thought Batman and Robin would fly together forever. 

He was proven wrong twice. Would Damian be alright with his biological father?

“Your second option is to stay here for the next few days. Then Dick will arrive and he can help introduce you. It would probably go smoother.”

Damian’s face scrunched and Tim held back a snort. The kid was obviously trying very hard to think through his decision. As he thought, Tim looked down at his phone. Where he had been texted a few times.

JustYourAverageZombie 

‘Is everything going well? No one kidnapped you?’

Impulse Control

‘More importantly. Have you kidnapped anyone?’

Tim looked at the texts, and choked slightly. How did he even?

He only really kidnapped Jason. Everyone else was voluntary. Well Dick was sort of blackmailing, but he didn’t technically kidnap Damian.

So he typed out an answer.  

IllegalBirdwatcher

‘No kidnappings yet. Everything is going really well.’

#1 Shadow Sister

‘Okay. Stay safe! We love you!”

Impulse Control 

‘Can we please be concerned that he said yet’

Tim grinned and put the phone down. Damian was watching him.

“I have decided the best course of action is to wait for Grayson.”

Tim cheered inwardly. He got to introduce Damian to everyone! He needed to be prepared. Should he get more swords?

Damian interrupted his thoughts “In the condition you show me how you are able to sneak up on father.”

“Sure.” Tim replied.

Damian looked at him incredulously for a moment. Had he expected Tim to say no? That kid could totally wreck him in a fight. He would be fine.

“We can go tonight.” 

Damian looked at Tim excitedly, and Tim mirrored the expression. It had been awhile since he had shown someone how he took his photos, and he had a feeling Damian would want to learn every detail. 

The day passed quickly, with Tim and Damian just staying at the manor. Damian beat him in every board game Tim owned, and they looked at photos together. 

When it was time to go Tim found some old Batwatching clothes from when he was younger. It was a good thing he had the common sense to dress dark when he was a kid or he wouldn’t have these clothes for Damian!

He paused. That seems like the kind of sentence Jason would scold him for, and Duke would just look at him concerned, while Cass went to hide his camera. Again. 

He missed them. 

“Hurry up!” Damian called. 

Tim rolled his eyes and ran to the door.  Together the two of them got on the bus, the bus driver looking wide-eyed at Damian. 

Honestly, the driver probably thought the Drakes had some sort of cover-up going on. 

Oh well. 

When they got off, Tim took Damian to his favorite building. 

“Here we are!” Tim said.

It was his favorite view, it was the tallest pint in the area, so he could look down and see incredibly far. Eventually the sky scrapers would start popping up in the distance, but not close enough to obstruct the view. The city moved underneath, and it was mesmerizing to just watch. He had gotten his best shots here. 

Damian moved next to Tim, taking the sight. Breathing quietly. 

“Welcome to Gotham.” 

The pair sat down, and Tim got out his camera. 

“I can’t promise Batman tonight, but I should be able to go over sightings and determine his patrol tomorrow.” Tim started “So I decided to take you here, my favorite spot.”

“Your favorite?" Damian asked quietly. 

“Yeah.”

“Thank you for showing me.”

Tim beamed at Damian. Happy that the kid seemed to have just as much awe of this place as he did. 

“Do you want me to show you how to work the camera?"

Damian nodded and Tim started expanding each detail. 

Whoosh  

Damian and Tim turned. Both immediately backing away from the edge. Coming from all around, figures dressed in long garments began to move in silently. 

The cloaked figures surrounded them. Tim had no idea who–

“The League has come for me.” Damian whispered. 

Tim had no idea what they were going to do. 

Damian brought out his swords, but he didn’t look confident. Which was fair, there were around fifteen of the figures. 

He rustled in his bag, looking for anything to use. Some sort of weapon or communication or–he felt it.

With no hesitation he pressed the small, round button. 

The figures kept circling. 

“The Master wants the Prince alive.” One of them hissed. 

“And the other?” Tim guessed that was him.

“Dispose of him.” 

Before any of them moved there was a blinding flash of light and a blob-like shape hit the ground. 

It was Batman. He must have been in the area. 

He couldn’t make out any defined shapes, but he made sure he grabbed Damian. The kid tensed suddenly, then recognized him. 

Minutes later the assassins were downed and Batman turned to them.

Tim blinked quickly as the light started to fade. 

Damian stopped forward “Father, I am your true blood son. My mother is Talia al Ghul and I have come to claim my rightful place by your side.”

Batman tensed and stood still, someone seemed to be talking to him through his comm. 

“Was that not the correct thing to say?” Damian asked Tim nervously. 

“Don’t worry,” Tim assured him “He’s probably more used to people saying that in his Brucie persona, and not the Bat one.”

Batman’s gaze turned on him sharply. 

“Oop…”

A gas was released from a canister and Tim felt his eyelids go droopy. 

Everything went dark and he fell. Something catching him from hitting the ground. 

Things only started to come back in bits and pieces. There was a tapping sound on repeat.

He tried to figure out what happened. They had been looking at the camera, and then the figures, and— 

Damian!

Tim shot up and looked around, Damian was safe. Right beside him. 

They were in some sort of glass cage, in the Batcave. 

Damian had locked eyes with someone. Tim turned around and saw familiar blue eyes. 

“Jason!” Tim grinned, voice dripping with relief. 

Damian relaxed somewhat, at the positive reaction .

Jason’s eyes were locked on Damian. “Timothy Jackson Drake.”

Tim winced "I can explain, but could you let me out first? I don’t know when Bruce will be back.”

Jason’s face filled with anger at the mention of Bruce. “He drugged you.” 

“Well, I kinda admitted I knew his identity.”

“You are an idiot.” Jason stated “Why did we think leaving you alone was a good idea.?”

He then quickly went over to the control pad. He frowned at it for a second before applying his finger print and typing something in.

The door slid open.

“How?” Tim questioned.

Jason shrugged “Apparently they haven’t gotten rid of my codes. Feels like a security issue.”

There's a snort and Tim sees Duke and Cass coming up from behind. 

“I mean, what are the chances Jason Todd would come back from the dead.” Duke said. 

Damian shot up, slowly panning his gaze over Jason. Tim rolled his eyes as Damian decided Jason wasn’t a threat. Honestly, the only person Damian was watching was Cass.

Which was fair. Cass could be scary, but she wouldn’t hurt them. 

“Still,” Jason argued, reminding Tim he was in a cell. “What if I went evil or something? I could totally sneak in and try to kill one of you.”

Tim stepped out of the cell, Damian right next to him.

“Do you want to kill one of us?” Duke asked 

Jason shook his head.

“Problem solved.”

Tim and Cass exchanged a look. Cass rolling his eyes at him. Tim chuckled. 

“So,” Tim asked, “How did you get away from Dick?”

The trio paled. 

“Um.” Duke started, then stopped.

Cass glanced at both of them and sighed. 

‘ Dick got a call from a communicator. Said Tim Drake was detained. Told us to stay behind. He grabbed the keys and I knocked him out.’ Cass looked very pleased with herself. 

Tim grinned. “And you came for me!”

“Of course we did.” Duke frowned at Tim’s doubtful expression “What like we’d leave you here?”

Tim shrugged. 

“The question we should be asking” Jason glared “Is where are your parents?” 

Tim looked nervously. 

“Timothy’s parents?” Damian finally spoke.

Everyone's gaze turned to him. 

“You told me your parents weren’t coming home for a while.” Damian said nervously. 

Jason looked Tim straight in the eye. “Is. That. So?”

Tim gulped, ready to speak his pre-planned heartfelt apology.

Cass tensed and turned towards the stairwell. 

Moments later everyone heard the footsteps. 

“We must have tripped some sort of alarm.” Jason muttered. 

“But the codes!” Duke hissed. 

“Well there are still four unauthorized presences in the Batcave…” 

Cass started walking towards the car. Dick’s car, Tim’s mind supplied. How else would they have gotten here? 

“We are discussing this later,” Duke whispered to Tim. 

The footsteps paused. 

“...Jason?”

Bruce’s voice sounded broken. 

Jason froze, he couldn’t move. Duke immediately ran to his side and took his hand. 

Cass moved over to help. “Cass,” Duke stared “I need you to drive, I got Jason.”

Cass looked over at the pair, then nodded confidently. 

They quickly moved to the car, until Tim realized Damian hadn’t come with them. Bruce slowly started moving closer.

They stood between Bruce and the car. Cass already in the driver's seat and Duke helping Jason into the car. Bruce was creeping forward.

“Damian, it's your choice.” 

Damian took a small breath and ran towards Tim, gripping his hand along the way. The two of them sprinted to the car.

The moment they got in Bruce regained his senses and started moving forward, prepared to remotely stop the car.

Jason acted first "Initiate Contingency: Rouge Bat. Verification 3926.89” 

The computer binged and the systems shut down. Cass slammed on the accelerator. 

They raced out of the cave just before the exit closed behind them.