Trouble Is A Friend

Posted originally on the Archive of Our Own at http://archiveofourown.org/works/48424792.

Rating: General Audiences

Archive Warning: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings
Fandoms: Young Justice (Cartoon), Young Justice - All Media Types, Nightwing
(Comics), Batman - All Media Types, Deathstroke the Terminator
(Comics)
Relationships: Dick Grayson & Bruce Wayne, Dick Grayson & Slade Wilson, Dick
Grayson & Members of the Team (Young Justice), Artemis Crock/Wally
West, Dick Grayson & Barbara Gordon
Characters: Dick Grayson, Slade Wilson, Bruce Wayne, Clark Kent, Kaldur'ahm |
Jackson Hyde, Wally West, Artemis Crock, M'gann M'orzz, Kon-El |
Conner Kent, Members of the Team (Young Justice), Ace the Bat-Hound
(DCU), William Randolph Wintergreen, Mentioned Jason Todd -
Character, Barbara Gordon, Dinah Lance, Clone Roy Harper | Will
Harper, Oliver Queen
Additional Tags: Hurt Dick Grayson, Dick Grayson Needs a Hug, Dick Grayson is
Nightwing, Dick Grayson Has Issues, Romani Dick Grayson, Dick
Grayson was Renegade, Dick Grayson Has PTSD, Bruce Wayne is a Bad
Parent, Bruce Wayne is Bad at Feelings, Bruce Wayne is Bad at
Communicating, Bruce Wayne Tries to Be a Good Parent, Slade Wilson
is Deathstroke, Evil Slade Wilson, Creepy Slade Wilson, Slade Wilson
Being an Asshole, Dick Grayson as Slade Wilson's Apprentice,
Canonical Character Death, Protective Team, Uncle Clark Kent, Set
Between Young Justice Season 1 and Season 2, Hurt/Comfort, Emotional
Hurt/Comfort, Other Additional Tags to Be Added, Protective Barbara
Gordon, Good Grandparent Alfred Pennyworth, Protective Alfred
Pennyworth, PTSD, Anxiety, Protective Roy Harper, Good Uncle Clark
Kent, Protective Clark Kent, Protective Wally West, Implied/Referenced
Self-Harm, Implied/Reference Suicide Attempt, Dissociation, Panic
Attacks, Suicidal Thoughts, Depression
Language: English
Series: Part 7 of Dick Grayson's Betrayal
Collections: Sladick
Stats: Published: 2023-07-07 Completed: 2023-09-23 Words: 102,075
Chapters: 46/46
 Trouble Is A Friend
by Nightwing_DC_2112

Summary

Dick Grayson former Robin, Former Renegade now flies through the city of Blüdhaven as
the vigilante Nightwing. He has his life back on track after having it almost destroyed by
Deathstroke but with his relationship with his former mentor on the rocky side will he stay
clear f the mercenary's clutches or will he fall back into his hands without his father to act as
his safety net.

Part 7 of Dick Grayson's Betrayal

Notes
See the end of the work for notes
 Changes

Blüdhaven, May 17 th , 3:31AM

It had been a few years since his time with Deathstroke and a lot had changed in the boy
wonder’s, former boy wonder’s life. He no longer wears the colours of his family having
upgraded to a sleek black and blue with the new name Nightwing inspired by a story his
uncle Clark had told him after a fight with Bruce.

That was another change in his life his and Bruce’s relationship was rocky at best, they still
cared for one another but Dick needed space to grow and Bruce wasn’t giving him that. Dick
understood why given everything that happened with Deathstroke and considering the man
still showed up every now again with his invitation to rejoin his ranks. Dick would never go
back there; he took the challenge of a fight whenever Slade appeared knowing if he didn’t
others would be hurt but he refused to ever don the Renegade suit again. However, because
Dick was making his father worry Bruce pushed him away out of fear and after being shot in
the shoulder and nearly killed by Joker, his father had fired him as his partner. That whole
ordeal had caused a huge fight which is when Dick decided it was best to give his father the
space he so clearly needed.

He spent a few days with Clark and then with Wally whilst he worked out what he wanted to
do with his life. He finally settled on moving to Gotham’s sister city Blüdhaven and enrolling
in the police academy. Bruce had voiced his reservations about his choice of future
employment but Dick didn’t care he just wanted to help people and ‘Haven was a city that
desperately needed it. He could be one of the few good cops on the BPD and then also
protect the city at night as his new persona. Whilst training for the police academy he took up
two jobs one being a trainer at a local gym, the other in a bar known to be a frequent for cops
to visit of duty. For the bar job he worked under an alias given he was under 21 but he made
it work and it gave him an insight on how corrupt the BPD was.

He’d also gained a brother during this time who at first, he’ll admit he was a little less than
welcoming given that Bruce had actually adopted this child unlike him who was still just his
ward but Bruce had also given the teen his name. Jason wore it proudly but Dick did hold a
little resentment that his father had allowed the younger to wear the name that was his, that
was gifted to him by his mother. Eventually he did warm up to the kid because it wasn’t
Jason’s fault Bruce was Bruce but just as they were starting to get along, he had month long
mission to depart for and would have to cut all contact until he returned.

He returned home less than twenty minutes ago and as soon as his uniform was off, he was
falling into bed exhausted. He should have called Bruce when he was at the cave to debrief
him, but he was too tired and would just swing by the manor tomorrow. He’d given a quick
rundown to Kaldur as he was waiting for the return of those who were on the mission and
also told him he’d be taking a week off to get back to normalcy before returning for duty. It
didn’t matter about not calling Bruce he was going to visit the manor anyway having
promised Jason, he’d teach him some of his fighting techniques however he had been
planning to go when Bruce would be at the Watchtower on monitor duty. It’s not that he
didn’t want to see the man, he did, but he didn’t want any lectures about not taking care of
himself which he would definitely receive if Bruce sees him in person.

His hair was longer and he was thinner than he was before he left. He also definitely needed a
hot shower and probably some minor first aid for the few injuries he’d sustained and hadn’t
had checked over before leaving Mount Justice. Then he had to worry about Bruce
questioning the delay in the return home as the month mission took nearly three weeks longer
than it should have because of unavoidable circumstances. For now, though all he
wanted was close his eyes and sleep for the recommended eight hours ones supposed to have
every night.

He was thankful he was awake enough to grab a water bottle from his practically empty
fridge before stumbling into his room as that meant he wouldn’t have to suffer swallowing
the ibuprofen he kept next to his bed for emergencies dry which wasn’t the best. He took two
of the pills to hopefully ease his aching body enough that he’d be able to fall into the peaceful
realm of sleep.

He could worry about facing Bruce tomorrow after a hot shower and figuring out what he
was going to do for breakfast because there was no way he was going to the manor without
eating, Alfred would definitely have something to say about that.

At least with Alfred’s lectures it never seemed as if he was a failure and was always more out
of concern, Bruce probably meant the same but he wasn’t as good at communicating it. He
was expecting a talk from Alfred as well but that happened every time, he mustered up the
energy to visit and deal with Bruce’s silent judgement. Alfred typically would mother-hen
him anytime he went back to the manor always interrogating on whether he was eating,
sleeping or needed any injuries looking at, so Dick knew to expect some form of disappoint
when he sees his pseudo-grandfather.

After the manor he’d also need to arrange a catch up with Dinah because despite his better
mental health since the days of Renegade, Dick had kept up with his therapy as Slade did still
like to make his occasional appearances which had him still on edge. He might not have seen
the mercenary since starting up shop in ‘Haven but he couldn’t help the feeling of still being
watched which is where his sessions with Dinah come in.

He also still had the occasional check in with J’onn every now and the just to make sure there
were no falters in his mental barriers which there hadn’t been since Slade last made an
appearance.

Despite his relationship with Bruce all in all things were doing relatively okay for him at the
moment, sure the mission had taken a lot out of him but a few days off would fix him up
easily. He was set to return to his academy training on Monday and had his first shifts for
work over the next few days, Tuesday at the cop bar and Wednesday at the gym. It might not
seem like he’d be having time off but he was looking forward to the little break from
missions for a while and actually getting to be himself for a bit.

Being back home also meant he’d get to see his friends that hadn’t been involved in the
mission again and he was most looking forward to a well overdue get together with Wally,
Artemis and Barbara.
Wally and Artemis had slowly started leaving the hero gig behind just before he left both
wanting to just live their lives like normal civilians and get through college together. They'd
moved into a small apartment together after being accepted by the same college, Wally would
be studying Physics and Artemis Literature. Dick was happy for them, having understood the
need to separate yourself from the life but he himself had never been able to make that jump.
They both still would help out on occasion but had made it clear that they were thinking of
retiring from the life fully.

Barbara however had been thriving as Batgirl and was now a member of the team as well as a
few other new recruits. He has really enjoyed being able to work with her over the past few
years and not have to hide anything from her. After Bruce was almost killed by Slade, Dick
finally opened up to her about what happened he didn’t share everything but he told her
enough that she understood what was wrong with him. He never told her about the brand.

He hadn’t told anyone about it, not since he revealed it to Wally, no-one else knew anything
about it. In fact, no one except those around at the time knew about his time with Deathstroke
at all. They had been informed about the mercenary but not of what he did to Nightwing.
Anyone who had joined their ranks after that night on the GCPD rooftop were in the dark of
the whole situation. Dick had also kept his identity a secret from any newcomers and also
kept his distance from them to prevent Slade using anyone else he cares about against him.

The identity staying a secret was also out of respect for Bruce even if his respect for his
father was less than then it was a few years ago, but he had to remember it wasn’t just Bruce
that would be affected it would also be Jason. He might have resented the kid at first but he
deserved to have his secret protected, it wasn’t Dick’s place to tell everyone who now wore
the Robin uniform. Those who knew who he was obviously knew but that’s also because they
knew who Bruce was as they were trusted with the secret.

As for the team when he does return to after his short break, he needs to make sure Kaldur
takes some time off, having been dumped with managing everyone while he was away. Dick
still wasn’t ready to be full-fledged leader of the team but he had agreed to start shifting into
the role and take over like his friend had always said he should. Kaldur was still technically
in charge but Dick did now hold a lot more responsibility with the team as leader. They
worked well together as a team in leading both old and new members, and had even been
given more responsibilities now they were older.

Red Tornado no longer lived at Mount Justice as the older teens who lived there were mature
enough to ensure the safety of the youngers. Canary was no longer in charge of training
regimen that duty had been delegated to Dick and while he was away other senior members
of the team would take turns in leading exercises. Batman also wasn’t actively monitoring the
team's missions anymore; he would still be in charge of deploying the occasional mission but
once again that was something Dick had taken over which Kaldur had covered whilst he was
on his own mission.

He would be taking those duties back once he’s had the week off, he needs to recuperate and
get his head back in the game. He’ll still be maintaining his patrols as Nightwing during that
time much to Kaldur’s advice not to but he’d left his city without a protect for long enough,
he needs to get back out there.
Right now, all he needed was sleep which was finally starting to pull on him as the pain
killers kicked in easing the aching all over his body. He could worry about everything else
tomorrow.
 Death In The Family
Chapter Notes

Most dialogue between Bruce and Dick is direct quotes from The New Titans issue 55.

Now of course we never discovered what occurred to Jason during the time skip so I'm
sticking to the story I know, same as we don't know when or why Dick became
Nightwing and stopped being Robin so again using what I know from the comics I have
read.

Gotham City, May 17 th , 11:49AM

When Dik called the manor that morning to inform Alfred he’d be stopping by he was
surprised that no-one answered as Alfred was never one to ignore a phone call. He’d even
tried to reach through via the Bat-Computer but he still had no response from his childhood
home.

He figured they must be really busy to ignore his calls and would get back to him when they
realised, they’d missed a call.

Still wanting to check-in with his family and Barbara after he made the drive across the bay
from his city to Gotham. He did have the option to use the Zeta beams to save on gas
however he’d rather take his bike and enjoy the ride having been working non-stop the past
month and half. It was his chance to relax and cool off before having to deal with the
inevitable lectures from his father about how his mission could have gone better and for not
adequately taking care of himself.

He probably shouldn’t be driving his motorbike in his condition given how sore he still was
especially his sprained knee and bruised ribs but he’d driven in worse situations.

At least he could say he had some form of breakfast that morning, granted it wasn’t a proper
meal given it was a granola bar he still had in his cupboard and was also stale but it was
better than nothing. Well maybe not in Alfred’s books but no doubt he’d force a proper hearty
meal on him when he got there and then threaten to come check in on his apartment to make
sure he had all the essentials. Which wasn’t exactly fair considering how long he hadn’t been
there but there was no arguing with Alfred. He’ll just have to make sure to hit the grocery
store before going on patrol tonight and that’s if Alfred doesn’t talk him into staying for the
weekend.

He was just pulling up to the main gate of the manor and for some reason he couldn’t help the
uneasy feeling that had washed over him.
He pressed on the buzzer despite knowing the gate codes and once again was met with
silence like he had been earlier when he had tried calling. Dick typed in the code to grant
himself access and continued down the driveway on his bike pulling to a stop when he
reached the fountain in the front yard by the main entrance.

Forgoing knocking as his previous attempts at alerting his family had been futile Dick let
himself into the manor with the key Alfred had forced him to take when he moved out.

“Alfred. Bruce. Jaybird,” Dick called out as he closed the door and removed his jacket,
placing his bike helmet on a nearby cabinet. “Anyone home?”

It was highly possible no-one was here and Dick was being paranoid but he couldn’t help the
anxiety that was creeping up on him from the silence.

He was probably being dramatic Jason would be at school which explains his absence and
Bruce probably had something to do at Wayne Enterprises he couldn’t get out of. As for
Alfred he could simply be running errands whilst there was no-one home.

The silence was soon broken by the quiet padding which Dick knew all too well and soon
enough he was being welcomed by the furry family member Ace. Bruce may have originally
gotten the dog when Dick was suffering severely with his anxiety and PTSD after
Deathstroke but when the teen moved out, he knew Ace would be better off here as Dick
wouldn’t have been able to support himself and a dog. He missed always having his animal
companion with him but with his current schedule with work, the academy, the team and
patrol he just didn’t have the time and it wouldn’t have been fair to Ace.

“Hey Ace, you wouldn’t happen to know where everyone is would you?” Dick smiled as he
petted the dog. “Didn’t think so,” Dick responded with the animal's silence as he stood back
to his full height. “Come on then I’m sure they’ll be some left overs I can steal while we wait
and how about a treat for my favourite fuzzball,” Dick gestured towards the kitchen as he
began walking alongside the Great Dane rolling his eyes at how crazy he probably sounds
talking to Ace as if he would converse with him.

Once he reached the kitchen, he started by getting Ace the promised treat before looking for
something to eat for himself in the fridge. As he went to open the fridge, he noticed the sticky
note in Alfred’s handwriting on the door.

‘Master Bruce, should you find your way out of that damp and dreary cave while I am out
there is a container with your lunch on the second shelf. It will need to be microwaved for
one and a half minutes to heat it through properly. Alfred.’

“Well least I know where to find B, and that answers why Alfie isn’t here," Dick said to
himself ignoring his quest for food to try and drag his father out of the cave.

Judging by Alfred’s note it seems that Bruce may be in one of his obsessive moods where he
stays in the cave day and night searching for answers on a case. During his years as Robin,
Dick had grown all to use to this behaviour from his father so knew the best way to get him
to take a step back. Of course, it would always start with some form of argument but Dick
had been expecting that given the extended mission and his general appearance looking
worse for wear.

If anything, him looking as rough as he did might play in his favour as he could guilt-trip
Bruce when the man makes those comment by pointing out how Bruce himself looks after
being in the cave for who knows how long.

Dick left Ace upstairs so the animal wouldn’t have to endure the shouting match that was
likely to take place and made his way down to the cave alone.

As soon as Dick saw the screen of the Bat-computer and which rogue Bruce was looking into
he knew this intervention was going to be harder than anticipated. Out of everyone they deal
with Joker is one of the few that really grabs Bruce’s attention because of how psychotic.
Joker was the last straw before Robin was taken from him so Dick knew how much the
clown played on his father’s mind.

“Do you need help with him?” Dick asked making himself known as he came to stand behind
his father’s seat.

Bruce didn’t even face him which proved how deep into work he was, Dick was surprised he
got any form of reply at all granted it was one word but its more than he expected, “no.”

“You sure because from the note Alfred left on the fridge sounds like you’ve been down here
a while and...” Dick was cut off as his father abruptly stood his chair scraping harshly against
the stone floor.

“Why are you here Dick?” Bruce asked almost growling the question out still not looking at
the teen.

“I got back last night and knew you'd want a report of the mission, also figured I’d check in
with Alf and Jason while I’m here,” Dick didn’t miss the way his father’s jaw clenched at his
brother’s name and he instantly knew something was wrong. “Bruce, what’s going on, has
something happened? Is the kid hurt?”

“He’s dead,” Bruce stated his fist clenching as he continued. “Joker killed him.”

“What do you mean Joker killed him?” Dick asked incredulously not believing his father for
a second. “What... When did this happen?”

“April 27 th ,” Bruce answered the squeaking of leather constricting echoing through the
caverns. “He didn’t listen, went off on his own and paid the price with his life. You were
lucky, when you didn’t listen your injuries were not fatal...”

“He’s been dead for weeks and you didn’t think to pull me off mission to tell me!” Dick
interrupted his voice raising as the grief and anger started to come in. “And you're trying to
make it sound like it was my fault. What I leave, Jason replaces me and because I wasn’t
here, he died. You put me on that mission Bruce, I wasn’t here on your orders! You’re the one
who trained him and obviously you put him into the field before he was ready...”
Dick didn’t see the hit coming.

SMACK!

Bruce put enough force behind the punch it sent him to the ground, aggravating his sprained
knee when he landed.

“DON’T YOU DARE BLAME ME FOR JASON’S DEATH! DON’T YOU DARE!” Bruce
snarled not even caring that he just hit his eldest child.

Dick had never seen his father this angry before so stayed on the ground fearful that if he
attempted to stand the man would hit him again.

“Why did I ever think I needed a partner?” Bruce spat rage flickering in his eyes. “They slow
you down. They make you worry about them rather than doing their job. He wouldn’t listen,
he wanted to do everything his way, he was just like you. In a few years I would have had to
fire him as I did you!”

“Bruce he was a fifteen-year-old kid...” Dick tried to reason still not getting off the ground.

“Why are you pretending to be concerned about Jason?” Bruce questioned angrily still
shouting loud enough the bats with the cavern were screeching. “You told me you resented
that I adopted him and not you...”

“No, I didn’t, I only asked why you adopted him,” Dick argued wiping his face from the
blood that was now trickling from his nose from the hit he’d taken.

“We’ve gone over this before Dick, I’m not interested in having this conversation,” Bruce
turned his back on him once more and began storming to the elevator apparently no longer
caring for Alfred’s rules of no vigilante gear upstairs. “I suggest you leave and leave your key
on your way out. I don’t need a partner! I never should have had one and I never will again!”

As he watched his father disappear the realisation hit him.

Jason was dead. His little brother that he’d only just started to let in was gone. He was dead
and he hadn’t been there to protect him. Bruce was right, this was his fault. If the mission
hadn’t ran over, he would have been here, he would have stopped it happening.

Dick curled in on himself as the grief, guilt and hurt overwhelmed him and he allowed the
tears that had been building since Bruce first told him what happened slip.

He hadn’t been a good brother to the kid and now it was too late. He was ted so much time
arguing with Bruce that he never got the chance to really get to know the kid who was now
his brother. He’d wasted so much time and by the time he’d finally come to let the boy in, he
was taken away.

Dick couldn’t even bring himself to go back upstairs to get his bike, he’d ask Barbara to drive
it down to ‘Haven. Instead, he filled in a quick report of the mission and Zetad back to his
city leaving his key behind as Bruce instructed.
 It's About Time I Visit The Little Bird

Metropolis, May 13 th , 2:34PM

Slade was packing up the safehouse he had been using for the past week while completing his
latest job as he had finished his assignment last night. It was lucky he wrapped up when he
did as he received word of a certain bird returning home after being away for nearly two
months.

Surprisingly, even after a couple years no-one had discovered that the nano trackers within
Richard are still accessible to him which has allowed him to keep a watchful eye over the
little bird.

He’d been biding his time the past year since the former boy wonder flew the coop to strike
out on his own and now, he was long overdue a visit.

The boy had long since passed the test to prove his worthiness to rejoin his ranks and while
Slade may have had numerous opportunities to take him or force him back, he hasn’t. He
wants the boy to come back just as willingly as he did the first time and with the rumours in
the underground now might his chance to break his mind once more.

Nothing had been publicly reported as of yet, however after the Joker turned up to Arkham in
a full body cast there had been rumours of what he could have done to warrant such violence
from the bat. Rumours that included killing the bats sidekicks as neither Robin or Nightwing
had been seen since the Joker returned to Arkham.

Deathstroke knew for certain Richard was not dead as the trackers gave him access to his
vital signs which currently displayed a beating heart. The second Robin however he wasn’t so
sure on, but he was almost positive his little bird’s replacement was dead.

When a new boy wonder appeared at the bats side, Deathstroke made sure to do his research
in the kid more so, so he could use the kid against his bird of interest.

Jason Todd another orphan taken in by Bruce Wayne but unlike Richard, Jason was adopted
straight away which Slade knew would play on his bird’s mind. The second Robin was a
street kid from crime alley, mother died of an overdose and father was a drunk in and out of
prison. From what Deathstroke gathered Todd’s step-father was also abusive which is why he
ended up on the streets after the passing of his mother. There isn’t much to find after that up
until Wayne took the kid in and then a month or so later Batman had a new kid partner at his
side.

The short time between Todd being taken in and a new Robin appearing is what made
Deathstroke certain that Jason Todd was dead and the most likely cause was lack if training.
Unlike Richard who was a trained acrobat before the bat took him in, Todd didn’t have any
form of training and the month of what the bat would have provided would have been
nothing compared to the months of training Grayson put in before being allowed in the field.
If the new Robin really is dead, then it is the bat who killed him not the clown.

The kid being dead will work in Deathstroke’s favour however as he is fully aware of the
guilt complex his little bird carries and he knows all the right buttons to push to make him
crumble. He might not even have to put much work in to break his spirit as he had done the
first time round as judging by earlier vital signs the boy and Wayne may have had a rather
heated discussion.

Slade had seen the difference in the relationship between father and son over the years, how
Wayne had pushed the kid a way which is what resulted in his bird flocking to Blüdhaven.
That was the last time he had made contact with Grayson, before the boy changed his name
to Nightwing and upgraded to his new black and blue. He found the apartment the teen was
renting and offered the boy a place at his side, offered to take him in with it clear Wayne no
longer wanted him. Richard will never admit to his hesitation in declining that offer but Slade
had seen it, the boy was tempted just so he could feel wanted and appreciated. That was
another thing the mercenary would always be able to play on, his little bird’s need to be
wanted and useful.

Since the first Robin disappeared and remerged as the vigilante Nightwing, Deathstroke had
only informed a few people of the change. The boy belonged to him and therefore he didn’t
see the need to share that little bit if information with others who knew his apprentice was the
boy wonder. Ra’s Al Ghul would know without him revealing the truth as he knew who the
boy was behind the mask however the rest of the Light were only aware that Renegade and
Robin were the same person. The only other members of the society that had the privilege of
know the secret of his apprentice’s name change were Lex Luthor and Vandal Savage. Luthor
in return for the Kryptonite sample he gave him and Savage to make sure he would always be
of use to the villainous society. He didn’t really need to use Grayson as proof of his
usefulness as his work spoke plenty for him however it was always a good idea to have some
form of insurance when working with known back-stabbers.

“Transport is ready,” Wintergreen announced as the mercenary finished packing his

weaponry. “We will arrive in Blüdhaven at approximately 7:00PM.”

Slade hummed in acknowledgement picking the weapon case up to follow his ally to the
parking garage and the awaiting Land Rover.

“I thought you may have dropped this obsession with the boy considering you have left him
be for almost a year,” Wintergreen continued curious at the sudden interest Slade had once
again in the first Robin.

“I’ve been keeping watch on him the entire time which you are aware of,” Slade stated
loading his weapon case in the car before getting into the passenger seat. “I wanted to see
how he thrived on his own without the shadow of the bat looming over him. He of course has
been thriving and is still exceeding expectations so it is due time to make another appearance.
And let's just say certain events may make Grayson more complaint than he was a year ago.”

“Are you referring to the rumours of his replacement?” Wintergreen asked raising his
eyebrow in question.
Slade hummed once more, “with Grayson’s little guilt complex it will be easy to break him as
you have seen he tends to blame himself for others wrong doings or failing to save others.
Also, with nothing having been announced publicly on Robin or Todd being killed I suspect
he did not learn of the kid dying until earlier today when he returned to Wayne.”

“What if the kid isn’t dead?” Wintergreen questioned thinking that they may be wasting time
considering so far these were just rumours.

“If that is the case, it’s still about time I checked in with my apprentice and make sure he is
aware that there are still eyes on him,” Slade smirked and the car fell into silence as they
continued the long drive ahead.

Deathstroke really didn’t care whether the rumours regarding the second Robin’s death were
true, Todd was not his target after all. Todd being dead would have given him a chance to
play with his bird of interest’s mind but he could do that without the kid being dead.

Even with distance he still held some control over Grayson that was proven with their last
meeting. It may be almost a year since that encounter but Slade was certain the teen’s fear of
him would still be there. The boy may seem better to everyone he surrounds himself with that
know what occurred but Slade knows the truth. All it takes is for a few placed words to bring
up the little bird's anxieties and he becomes somewhat compliant out of fear. Grayson is so
eager to please everyone around him that all it takes is one mention of Renegade and his self-
doubt begins to bubble making him lose the fight he would have had otherwise.

Slade knows what makes the boy crack, knows the ins and outs of his anxieties, knows how
to dull the fight in him. The kid won’t admit it but he’s still afraid of the consequences of
failing him. It’s not surprising given the last command Slade gave him that wasn’t in the form
of a surprise duel to test him was when he told the kid to bring Robin back from the dead.
The kid nearly lost his father so now when Slade told him to do something such as fight, he
would to prevent anyone he cared about being hurt.

All heroes share that weakness of caring about others but with Richard it was worse. The kid
had a fear of loss which comes from how much he has lost over the years and it was a fear
Slade would always take amusement in playing on. The boy had lost his first family, so Slade
threatened his found one. Richard lost himself to his own mind, Slade made sure to keep
breaking it every time there was improvements. The kid lost everyone he cared about when
joining his ranks, Slade would manipulate the boy into thinking they were doing better
without him and threatened to take them away permanently if Richard didn’t behave.

His little bird was so easy to break and Slade was going to enjoy doing just that once again.
 Rough Night Little Bird?

Blüdhaven, May 18 th , 6:01AM

Dick definitely shouldn’t have been patrolling last night but after everything with Bruce... He
just had to get out and clear his head. He couldn’t believe it. Jason was dead... His little
brother, the one he’d only just started to accept was gone. Jason was gone and he hadn’t been
there....

When he got back to his apartment, he let everything out, he’d cried and cried until he passed
out from exhaustion. When he finally came to, he saw he had missed calls on his answering
machine and was hesitant to check them at first. He did in case any of the messages left were
from Alfred as his grandfather would probably be concerned as to why his bike was still at
the manor and would most likely try to apologise for Bruce’s behaviour.

‘Master Richard, first off, I apologise for any of Master Bruce’s actions as you can expect he
has not been coping since Master Jason however that does not excuse anything he may have
said to you. Secondly, I was under the knowledge he had informed you of Master Jason’s
passing while you were away had I had known I would have informed you myself and I am
truly sorry that you have only now learnt of what occurred. I understand if you do not wish to
return home for the meantime but I would very much like to see you in person and will be
visiting when Miss Gordon collects your motorcycle tomorrow morning. I... I hope you are
well Richard and once again I apologise for Master Bruce.’

Hearing his surrogate grandfather apologising for Bruce’s actions only made Dick want to get
out of his apartment more. He was quick to change into his uniform and was soon leaping
over the rooftops of his city. There were more messages on his answer machine but he didn’t
have the patience to listen to them, they’d still be there late when he gets back.

He knew he should have stayed in not only was he recovering from the injuries he’d
sustained on the mission but his head wasn’t in the right place. He was ashamed of how he
acted tonight; how violent he had been to the criminals he thwarted. He wasn’t thinking, all
he could think about was how much he was hurting and in turn wanted to hurt others who
harmed innocent people. He could have killed someone tonight, he almost did...

Some drunk had a young girl cornered in an alley, she couldn’t have been much older than
sixteen... Dick saw the guy push her to her knees with a knife in hand and couldn’t help but
think of Jason who was only a year younger. If it weren’t for the girl screaming, he probably
would have killed the guy and part of him wishes he had.

Even after that he still wasn’t holding back against anyone who decided to commit a felony
in his city that night. Each thug he came across would most likely be having some form of
extended stay in the hospital and Dick honestly didn’t care.

His recklessness worked both ways however as not only was he putting more hits in, he was
taking more than he usually would. One guy got lucky with a knife a pierced his side and
after taking him down Dick finally called it a night.
It took him almost an hour before he was climbing in through the window to his apartment
with how battered and bruised, he was. He was exhausted by the time he crawled through the
window practically collapsing when he was inside and was half-tempted to leave the knife
wound unstitched and deal with it after some sleep. That plan was immediately discarded
when he noticed the shadowed figure standing in the middle of the room.

It was dark and he was half disoriented from the injuries and exhaustion so logically
presumed the figure was Bruce coming to lecture him.

“Rough night little bird?”

How wrong was he... Dick knew that voice to well, that voice to this day still haunted some
of his nightmares. Any previous exhaustion was instantly replaced with adrenaline as Dick
fumbled for his escrima sticks.

Slade watched in amusement knowing that the kid was in no shape to fight him, he was
surprised the boy had even managed to stand back up considering how beat up he was.

“I’m not here to fight you Grayson,” Slade stated keeping his smirk small.

“S-Sure, just here for a frien-friendly chat then,” Dick countered his voice raspy with the
clear pain he was in.

“That’s one way to put it,” Slade responded neutrally watching as the teen struggled to stay
up and not pass out. “Heard about your replacement and came to offer my condolences.”

The teen may have stayed silent but Deathstroke saw the slight movement of his jaw
clenching which signified the rumours being true.

“I take it daddy didn’t tell you until you visited and judging by that bruise on you face which
looks too new to be from your little two-month escapade but not old enough to be from
whatever you’ve gotten yourself into tonight he didn’t want you there,” Slade smirked as he
saw the teen’s stance drop knowing he’d hit the nail on the head. “It wouldn’t surprise me if
he blames you after all if you hadn’t flown from the nest the kid would still be alive...”

“What do you want?” Dick sneered far from in the mood to be dealing with any of the
mercenary’s games.

“Now Richard you should know better than to talk with such a disrespectful tone,” Slade
warned however he knew by how much of an emotional wreck the kid was he wouldn’t
listen.

“I’m not a kid anymore Slade you don’t scare me,” Dick growled blinking the black spots in
his vision away.

“We both know that isn’t true little bird, even if you act like I still lurk in the deep crevices of
your mind we both know the truth even if you can’t admit that to yourself,” Slade responded
cooly noting how close the boy was to losing his battle with consciousness. “Now do tell was
my assumption that daddy dearest gave you that bruise correct,” Slade approached gripping
Dick’s face to get a full look at the mottled skin. “You must have said something really bad
for him to react so violently, then again it could be where you get your anger from.”

Dick jerked his head out the mercenary’s grip closing his eyes for a moment as the motion
made the room spin.

“What does it matter to you, in case you're forgetting you’ve done a lot worse to me,” Dick
spat.

The kid probably hadn’t even realised his little act of defiance was enough to confirm
Deathstroke’s suspicions, he was now curious at what exactly the little bird did to warrant his
father hitting him with such force.

“True but as I’ve told you before, you belong to me little bird, therefore any damage that
comes to you is my business,” Slade reminded not missing how the teen’s grip on the escrima
sticks he was holding tightened briefly before going slack once again signifying how close
the kid was to passing out.

“I don’t...” Dick began to argue but as predicted his adrenaline crashed and he was buckling
to the floor, blacking out.

Slade watched him drop not even bothering to step in to slow the descent taking amusement
at how easy it would be to snatch the little bird right now. The kid was alone and it was clear
Batman had no interest, how long would it be before someone noticed. Despite the
temptation he left the teen be, his plans required Richard coming to him of his own free will
which he will do with a little guidance.

While the mercenary may not have stepped in to stop the kid falling, he wasn’t going to let
the boy lie there with an open stab wound to bleed out before first aid could be administered.
He may not care about Richard being injured but he didn’t want him dead as it would be a
wasted opportunity.

He dragged the limp form onto the couch, noting how out of it the kid must be if the
movement didn’t make him stir at all.

It was simple enough to navigate through the small apartment having already done a search
of the place while he waited the four hours, he’d been here for the little bird to return. He
collected a pair of sweat from the kid's dresser and the first aid kit from the bathroom before
returning to the teen’s side.

If Slade didn’t know any better, he’d say the boy was dead given how not once did he move
or make a sound as he stripped the Nightwing suit from him. He immediately noticed upon
the removal of the uniform the patch that was covering where he left his mark on the boy. If
you didn’t know it was there the patch wouldn’t have been noticeable but Slade knew, he was
the one that inflicted the brand. He was also quick to notice the large bruises covering both
the teen’s front and back however most looked a few days old at least so he concluded they
were from whatever had him gone for so long.
He ignored the other injuries focusing on stitching the oozing stab wound in the kid’s side.
The bleeding had already slowed mostly and it didn’t seem deep enough to have hit anything
important, if Slade had to take a guess the knife used was most likely a pocket variety of
some sort. The injury seemed worse than it was before the suit was removed revealing it to be
nothing major. He made short working of expertly stitching and dressing the wound ensuring
it was clean and there would be no chance of infection.

Once the injury was taken care of, he manoeuvred the teen into the sweatpants he’d collected
and noticed they were a tad loose indicating the kid had likely lost some weight since he was
last home. It’s possible the weight loss had started before his escaped given that even the
cabinets were bare of non-perishables which suggests the little bird has fallen into the habit
of not looking after himself.

Slade didn’t care, he’d done his bit by making sure the kid didn’t bleed out or wouldn’t die
from infection. It wasn’t his responsibility to do that or to make sure the teen was looking
after himself.

Satisfied that the little bird would live the mercenary made his departure not before leaving a
message indicating he’d be watching and to say you're welcome for making sure he didn’t die
out of smugness.

He knew the kid would be fine, as well as search through the apartment he took time into
clearing the boy’s answering machine. The teen would be looked after by both Pennyworth
and Gordon so would survive long enough for their next encounter, so long as he doesn’t get
himself into as much trouble as he did tonight. Slade would have to check in with local news
and media sources to find out exactly what that trouble was.
 Taking Care

Blüdhaven, May 18 th , 9:57AM

Dick was startled awake by the loud knocking in his apartment door which confused him as
he didn’t remember going to sleep. As he became more aware of his surroundings, he also
noticed he was no longer in his suit but a pair of sweatpants.

He didn’t get much of a chance to fully gather the situation as his door was being opened and
both Barbara and Alfred were entering his apartment with numerous amounts of bags.

They were quiet at first having not noticed him on the couch looking at them in confusion
having not expected visitors.

“Hello,” Dick greeted his voice hoarse from sleep but still gaining the attention of his
surprise visitors.

Both turned at his voice and immediately gave him a once over and judging by their
expressions Dick knew he was in for some form of lecture, one that he’d much rather not
have given how tired he still was.

“I’m fine,” Dick said breaking the silence that had cascaded over the room. “It looks worse
than it is,” he attempted to stand but regretted the action instantly as his vision began to swim
and Barbara was quickly at his side easing him back down into a lying position.

“Please tell me you didn’t go on patrol last night,” Barbara questioned taking not of the
various bruises littering the ebony’s figure as well as the bandage covering his side.

Dick stayed silent knowing there would be disappointment to follow no matter what. He was
careless and he knows it, they’d just lost Jason and they could have lost him had he not come
home when he did. If he hadn’t had come back and... Wait...

Why’s the first aid kit on the coffee table. He didn’t treat his injuries. He knows that for
certain but then...

Slade was here. Dick doesn’t remember much which could quiet possibly be down to the
concussion he’s definitely sporting but he knows the man was here. He should say something.
Tell them what happened but... No, they already had enough to deal with, they didn’t need his
problems on top of it.

“Hey, you okay,” Barbara’s soft hand brushing along his cheek mindful of the dark mottled
Bruce on his face brough him out of the spiral he was heading into.

“I’ll manage you don’t have to stay, same goes to you Alfred, I’ll be fine nothing I haven’t...”
“Richard, I will not be going anywhere until you have been fed and allow me to look over
your injuries,” Alfred cut in his tone stern but also laced with grief.

Dick couldn’t argue with him when he sounded so pained, not that he could any other day but
right now... He’d just lost one grandchild and seeing him like this Dick knows it is probably
affecting the elder man.

He nodded in agreement before asking a question he might regret, “how’s Bruce holding
up?”

“He’s...” Alfred started but faltered off shaking his head.

“Don’t worry about him for now, just focus on yourself for a bit, you look like you’ve had a
rough night,” Barbara soothed running a gentle hand through his hair to ease his stress. “We
can deal with him later, just give yourself sometime to process.”

Dick closed his eyes as the red head continued carding through his hair comforting him. It’s
the first time in weeks he’s felt relaxed and part of him feels guilty at that because he
shouldn’t be. He should be looking out for his family who had just lost their youngest
member. He should be trying to track down Deathstroke because him showing up is never a
good sign. He should be going back to the manor to face Bruce and keep him from going
over the edge.

“When’s the funeral?” Dick muttered half asleep.

“Dick...” Barbara began stopping the comfort she had been offering her friend.

“I’m sorry Richard but Master Bruce had him buried as soon as possible, the service already
took place,” Alfred explained and Dick knew him well enough to know he was concealing
tears.

If Dick wasn’t hurt by Bruce before, he was now. This hurt a lot more than the punch to the
face, a lot more. Not only did his father not tell him his brother had been killed but he didn’t
wait for him to get home before burying him. He may not have seen eye to eye with the kid at
first but that was his brother at the end of the day and because of Bruce he never got the
chance to say goodbye.

“I take it he’s buried on the private lot?” Dick asked because he didn’t care if Bruce told him
to leave his key, there was no way he was never going to go to the private gravesite again.

Bruce couldn’t stop him; it might be on his land but Dick’s whole family are buried there. If
Bruce didn’t want him on the property, then he’d have to call the cops on him for trespassing.
That’s where his family were buried and now his little brother, he had every right to visit
whenever he wanted.

“Yes, Master Bruce has been spending most of his time in the cave so you are welcome to
visit whenever you like, you are always welcome there Richard,” Alfred answered his tone
assuring Dick that he would be the one to prevent Bruce saying otherwise.
Dick hummed in acknowledgement as he knows he’ll cry if he tries to speak with the tears
building behind closed eyes.

He should have been here. Alfred and Barbara shouldn’t be wasting time looking after him,
they should be mourning the loss of Jason themselves. They shouldn’t be wasting time with
the reason Jason was taken from them.

The two other occupants in the apartment knew the kinds of things that would be going
through Dick’s head. They knew he was likely blaming himself for what happened with
Jason even though he hadn’t been there for a month prior. Knowing Dick that was probably
playing on him because in his head he’d think if he hadn’t been on that mission, he could
have helped the second Robin when in reality things probably still wouldn’t have gone any
different.

Alfred was yet to mention to the two teens of his knowledge about what his surrogate son had
done to the first Robin. When he had returned home and saw Richard’s bike parked out front
there was a warmth in him that he hadn’t felt since the loss of his second grandchild. He went
down to the cave and heard the shouting match between father and son, but it wasn’t until he
saw the computer screen had he realised that it was a recording from the cameras with the
cave. He had just appeared behind his pseudo-son when the man on screen hit the teen
sending him crashing to the ground. He’d almost resigned on the spot but he felt a sense of
duty and obligation to stay at Bruce’s side to ensure he wouldn’t get himself killed whilst
mourning the death of his son.

He’d discovered Richard’s key on the console after he had his own heated words with Bruce
and made sure to pick it up before the other man could take it. The manor was the boy’s
home and Bruce had no right in ever telling the teen to leave his key as if he didn’t belong
there. Alfred made sure to warn his surrogate son that if he ever laid a hand on the boy again
or made him feel unwelcome, he would not be returning. Bruce seemed to have ignored him
but the elder man knew him well enough to see the guilt in his face at the warning.

“Miss Gordon would you be so kind as to reheat the meal in the black container whilst I
check over Richard’s injuries,” Alfred requested as he opened the first aid kit that had been
left on the coffee table and taking Barbara’s place at Dick’s side.

“Alfred, you don’t have to worry about it I’m fine rea...” Dick’s weak attempts at protesting
were cut off by a pained hiss when the butler pushed against his bruised torso testing for
breaks to his ribs.

“You are lucky, severe bruising and no breakages,” Alfred stated peeling away the gauze to
check the injury it was covering. He didn’t comment on the preciseness of the stitching easily
being able to tell that the teen had not done this himself, “there don’t appear to be any signs
of infection.”

Dick saw his grandfather’s expression when checking over what he now remembers to be a
stab wound, Alfred knows he hadn’t stitched it himself, having to re-do his work on
numerous occasions in the past. He was surprised it wasn’t brought up and instead the butler
moved on to a concussion check something that Dick already knew he had given how
common they are in his line of work.
It was a few minutes later when he was handed a black container which was now steaming
after being heated in the microwave.

“I would be grateful if you tried to eat before I administer any pain relief and before you get
some rest,” Alfred suggested and Dick knew it was instruction.

He wasn’t really hungry even though all he had eaten since getting back was a stale granola
bar, but he stomached the meal for Alfred’s sake. He could tell how worried the man was so
the least he could do was get some form of nutrition in him to ease that worry. He already felt
bad enough burdening both Alfred and Babs so the least he could do was make there stay as
short and as stress free as possible.

He didn’t finish the food but what he did eat reminded him of home as Alfred’s cooking
always did.

Home the place he’d been kicked out of...

Before his thoughts could consume him Barbara was handing him a glass of juice while
Alfred was passing him a stronger pain relief the would knock him out for a couple hours.

“I’m fine with ibuprofen Alfred,” Dick lazily pushed the man’s hand away but one stern look
from the butler had him surrendering.

“You need rest Richard, so I’d appreciate you taking these now and then once you’ve had few
hours sleep you can switch to the ibuprofen to manage the pain,” Alfred insisted even though
Dick had already accepted the pills.

Once he’d taken the medication and finished the juice Alfred and Barbbara helped him up to
get him into bed rather than leave him on the couch. They were doing this so he’d actually
fall asleep and not fight against it whilst they unpacked the groceries and pre-made meals the
butler had brought with him. The also wanted to help tidy the place up abit as Dick did like to
live a cluttered lifestyle and never put things away properly. They waited until they were
certain Dick was sleeping before leaving him in his room to complete the other tasks they had
waiting.
 Pushing Buttons

Blüdhaven, May 18 th , 8:21PM

Waking up Dick knew that the medication Alfred gave him was stronger than he had
originally thought as it was now getting dark outside. Everything ached still but from the
silence throughout the apartment he knew he should get up to search the place to see if Slade
left anything during his visit. He didn’t need the mercenary leaving anything to watch him
like he had back when he was Robin, leaving a hidden camera in his room.

Pushing himself upright prevented as a challenge from how much everything throbbed with
pain. He glanced down where the knife wound was concealed by the gauze feeling
uncomfortable knowing that Slade was likely the one to stitch it, which also meant he was the
one to strip him of his uniform and into a pair of sweats. That thought sent shivers up his
spine knowing how vulnerable he was around the man who had almost destroyed his life.

He honestly thought with how long it had been Slade had lost interest in him becoming his
apprentice. That’s not so say he forgot about the mercenary, he’d never be able to do that, not
with the mark still branded into his chest. However, he was on edge a lot less after not seeing
him for months and even less now it had been almost a year. He was still weary as the last
time up until last night he saw the mercenary, Deathstroke was when he first moved into this
apartment and since then he has always made sure to be as cautious as possible when
returning home from patrol or anywhere in general.

As he slowly eased himself out of bed Dick noticed the note on his bed-side table written in
Barbara’s handwriting.

‘There’s pre-made meals in the fridge courtesy of Alfred and we’ve stocked you up on some
other essentials. Your bike is parked in its usual spot and I filled the tank for you. Alfred left
to go check in with Bruce so he won’t get himself killed do anything too dangerous when he
goes on patrol. I’ll keep watch over ‘haven for you tonight so you can get some rest and I’ll
check in tomorrow. Babs. P.S I’m so sorry about Jason, I didn’t think Bruce would keep it
from you and if I had known I would have told you. I’ll talk to you properly tomorrow for now
just get some rest, you need it.’

Dick sighed at the note because it was clear that they had more important things to be dealing
with than him. He was burdening them. He was making them feel guilty for something Bruce
did. It wasn’t their fault Bruce kept things from him, they shouldn’t be the ones feeling guilty
for it. He should feel guilty for not being there to help, not them...

As he went to put the piece of paper back down, he noticed that his key to the manor had also
been left on the table which caused him to sigh once again as it could lead to an argument
between Alfred and Bruce, an argument he’d be the cause of. He’d have to make sure he
gives it to Barbara to take back to Gotham with her because Bruce was clear he didn’t want
him around. Alfred might have said he’s always welcome but the only visiting Dick will be
doing is to the private cemetery on the manor’s property, Bruce couldn’t take that right away
from him.

A creak coming from the living room brought him back to the present as did the shuffling
that followed.

Someone was here, it’s possible it could be Barbara checking in before going out on patrol
but Dick’s gut was telling him it was someone less friendly.

The pacing of the footsteps confirmed it, he didn’t need to see the person to know that
particular pattern. He’d come to memorise with how often he heard it.

“I know your there,” he announced surprised he was able to hide the shiver of his voice.

The steps drew nearer to his bedroom door until it opened revealing Deathstroke in full
amour sans the mask.

“Why are you here Slade?” Dick asked in what was meant to be a threatening tone but with
how he looks combined with the exhaustion and everything else going on in his head it came
out a little more deflated.

“I was in the area so figured it best to ensure my apprentice was still breathing,” Slade
answered as if it was the most obvious thing in the world.

“I’m not your apprentice,” Dick spat concealing the grimace that followed as he stood to not
feel as small compared to the mercenary. “I haven’t been for a long time.”

“It seems our time apart has made you forget your place or does the hostility come from
discovering the baby bird was murdered while you were away...”

“Don’t talk about him!” Dick snapped glaring towards Deathstroke not caring that the man
could easily do whatever he wants to him.

“Harbouring some guilt, are we?” Slade questioned patronizingly. “Realised you are the one
to blame for his death, that if you were there you could have saved him...”

“What do you want?” Dick interrupted, he knew Jason was his fault he didn’t need Slade
rubbing salt in the wound. “Why go to all the trouble of patching me up, when you had every
opportunity to leave me for dead?”

“Little bird, I only did that to ensure my time wouldn’t have gone to waste with all the work
I’ve put into you, training you, teaching you, ensuring your worth...” Slade began
condenscendingly.

“If this is you trying to make talk me into joining you it’s not going to work,” Dick argued
but Slade ignored him and continued.

“It’s clear now that daddy-bats no longer needs you, he replaced you and from what I’ve
gathered told you not to return to his home. Need I remind you of all the times I warned you
of this, that you were a burden to him sooner or later he’d realise t need you...”
“If I’m such a waste of time, why do you keep coming back?” Dick shouted so what if the
neighbours heard him, he was sick and tired of listening to all this. “Why keep trying to get
me to join you if I’m such a burden, weak and pathetic...”

Dick cursed himself for flinching when Slade moved closer proving the man right, he was
still afraid despite how much he acted like he wasn’t.

“Because little bird, I see your true potential unlike him, I see what you could become if you
were to separate yourself fully from him,” Slade answered taking another step closer to the
teen closing the gap between them. “You already took the first step when you strived out on
your own but it's clear you still require some guidance.”

“I don’t need anything from you, especially what you’d consider guidance,” Dick tried to
take a step back only to be stopped by the bed-side table behind him.

“It seems you do; I did my research into what occurred last night before you came home and
it’s like I’ve always said your violent when emotional, you need an outlet for that, an outlet I
can offer,” Slade reasoned noting the drop in the teen’s shoulders. “You could have killed
someone last night or yourself and then what would the bat think, what would they all think
knowing you discarded that code you hold so dear, then again as far as they’re aware you
almost killed before. Did you ever tell them the truth about that, that the life you were
referring to was your own and not someone else's.”

Deathstroke saw the tension come back to the kid and expected the attempted attack easily
dodging with how unsteady the kid was given his injuries. He dodged and grabbed the teen’s
arm pulling it back far enough if the kid fought back, it would dislocate his shoulder.

“You’re in no shape for this fight Grayson, so stand down before you hurt yourself,” Slade
suggested however with his tone it came out as more of an order.

Dick tried to struggle out of the hold at first, not caring about injuring himself further as he
just wanted Slade to leave him alone. He soon ceased fighting against the hold when he
realised the pointlessness of it.

As soon as it was clear the boy would behave himself Slade released him, smirking at the
attempted scowl the kid threw at him.

“Judging by that reaction, I’ll presume most of them don’t know the truth I know daddy
dearest does as he saw the video; did you ever tell him of your other secret, the one about
how you hurt yourself in a dissociative episode?”

From the teen’s expression Slade assumed the boy had not revealed that particualar secret but
the kid did quietly admit he had.

“Yes...” Dick muttered quietly ashamed at himself for those actions even if he hadn’t realised
what he did at the time until after he had done it.

“I’m surprised at you little bird, all the other secrets you keep and that is the one you chose to
reveal...”
“What does it matter? It was a long time ago,” Dick stated losing his patience once more.

“I was just curious little bird at how much daddy knows and how much you kept from him
because I know you never told anyone about our last meeting before last night,” Slade
responded with the same smirk still in place. “I presume you didn’t mention my visit last
night to your visitors either but they know I was here as my little reminder for you has been
taken.”

“Stay away from them,” Dick warned menacingly.

“I have no interest in the butler or the red head, you should know this by now Richard my
only interest is in you, I merely them to keep you in place,” Slade replied unbothered by the
teen’s tone. “Speaking of which I expect to see you in a week's time after you’ve recovered,
you still have the device I gave you so I will inform you of where closer to the time.”

“What makes you think...”

“You will do as I say Richard because you know the consequences of not following orders,”
Slade interrupted in a warning tone. “Do you think your family will want to have to bury
another body so soon after the baby bird? Are you really going to let someone else be killed
for your failures?” Slade knew he hit a nerve from the way the teen’s hands balled into fists
and remained silent. “Until next time little bird.”

As soon as Deathstroke vanished out of the bedroom window into the night Dick released the
breath he’d been holding trying to conceal his hurt from the mercenary’s words. He knew
what Slade was doing, he was trying to get in his head, play on his anxieties. Dick hated to
admit how it had worked some, hated that Slade knew all the words to say to rile him up.

He wanted to head out on patrol, he needed that escape to clear his head but he knew he
wasn’t in any shape to be out there.

He sighed in frustration as he had no outlet to fall back on to release some of his tension. He
couldn’t go to the Bat-Cave because Bruce kicked him out and he couldn’t go to Mount
Justice because that would draw unwanted attention from those that knew him well enough to
know he was stressed.

He hated that the mercenary got it right of his need for an outlet to be able to let himself go
but he refused to go through Slade to get it.

With patrol out of the question Dick changed into a pair of fresh sweats and a hoodie
deciding that if he couldn’t fly through the city, he could at least go fly on some gym
equipment where he works. The owner trusted him enough to give him his own keys to the
building and said he was free to use the place at any time because of how good of an
employee he was. It wasn’t that far from his apartment and Dick needed to get out, it was his
only practical option.

If Barbara decides to check in with him after patrol, she’ll probably have a few words to say
to him for not resting but he didn’t care all too much at that moment. He couldn’t sit there
and let Slade’s words eat away at him he had to get out and at least he was doing it in a way
he’d be safe. She couldn’t be too mad knowing that.
 Checking In

Happy Harbour, May 23 rd , 5:13PM

Nightwing hadn’t been set to return for duties at Mount Justice till tomorrow but with Kaldur
being summoned back to Atlantis he had to fufil his role as co-leader and therefore found
himself at the cave once he’d finished his classes at the academy for the day.

He didn’t mind standing in for Kaldur but he’d rather not have to handle the full team alone
given everything currently on his plate especially with them now in mourning as they too had
only just learnt the knowledge of Robin’s passing. If it wasn’t for Clark stepping in the day
before the announcement of Jason’s death would have fallen to him which is something he
doesn’t think he’d have been able to do.

Clark had actually visited him during his break to offer his condolences after Bruce had
informed the Justice League of Jason’s fate. The Kryptonian had told him he tried visiting the
manor first thinking he’d be there given the circumstance and Alfred had informed him of
what had occurred during his last visit.

Dick hated that Alfred knew the extent of what Bruce had said and done to him, as the elder
man didn’t need that stress especially now. Alfred didn’t deserve to be in the middle of his
and Bruce’s fights which is why Dick tried to keep himself at a distance where possible and
only interact with his father for work purposes.

Apparently both his grandfather and uncle had lectured Bruce about his behaviour, telling
him he had no right in saying or doing anything to him. It hurt when Clark told him Alfred
had considered resigning on the spot when he discovered Bruce had hit him. Dick didn’t want
that, if Alfred resigned Bruce would most likely be dead in a week and then it would be his
fault. He was glad the butler knew that too which is why he had stayed on but made the
warning to his father if he didn’t make things right, he would be fulfilling his resignation.

He needed to stop thinking about that, he had a job to do, a team to run, he could overthink
later during patrol.

Upon arriving at the cave he was surprised to see both Wally and Artemis suited up for
training as they mostly just showed up now when they were needed for missions given they
were in the midst of retiring from the hero gig.

He got his answer as to why they were when Wally nodded his head towards the lounge area
away from the gathered group who were awaiting for the training session to start. When the
speedster glanced towards Artemis before making his way towards the lounge to wait for him
it was silently saying she’d cover for him and her minute nod confirmed that.

“Alright everyone to warm up before we start today, you're to split off into pairs which
Artemis will assign for matches, remember this is just a warm-up so nothing to excessive,”
Nightwing announced thinking it would be best to assign something before leaving the archer
in charge of the group.
As he passed her, she reached for his hand squeezing gently, “you, okay.”

“I’ll manage, what’s Kid Mouth up to?” Dick replied he already knew why the speedster
wanted to talk in private but figured he’d ask anyway.”

“Making sure you know you’ve got people to fall back on,” Artemis answered squeezing his
hand again before letting go and starting to assign partners for the training session ahead.

Dick sighed as he made his way towards the lounge, he should have expected something like
this to happen especially when the original members of the team knew of his mental health
struggles. He had been hoping they’d let it go knowing he was still having sessions with
Dinah which he had one scheduled for tomorrow morning after the brief one they had earlier
in the week. He should’ve known better to think they might give him that break especially
when he’s known to keep things to himself.

“Listen Wally if this is about Robin, the I’m okay, it was a shock but...”

“Deathstroke’s back,” Wally stated, and Dick’s mouth went dry instantly. “Of course, you
already know that.”

“I... What are you talking about?” Dick questioned acting as if he had no idea what the
speedster was going on about.

“Seriously, after everything he did, you’re going to lie about not knowing he’s back around
when there’s proof he’s been in your apartment,” Wally responded clear irritation in his
voice, but it was more concern than anything. “He left a calling card which Batgirl found
when her and...” Wally paused before quietly whispering “Alfred,” then continued at his
normal volume, “found when they went to check in on you after you got back.”

“Okay, fine he was there but I’m fine...”

“That’s not the point, he was still there, and you didn’t say anything, what if he...” Wally cut
off worried for his brother’s safety knowing the mercenary was back.

“He didn’t and I really don’t want to do this right now,” Dick interrupted himself with a sigh
of what came across as defeat. “Please Walls can we talk about this later, I just...”

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to go off on you like that, I know things aren’t easy right now, but I’m
worried about you,” Wally apologised sympathetically. “I’m sorry about Jason, I know that
would have been hard coming home to learn that.”

Dick nodded and without even realising he said it thinking it was in his head, “just as hard as
Bruce blaming me for it.”

“HE WHAT?!”

“What?” Dick questioned confused.

“Batman blamed you for Robin! You weren’t even here, how...”
“No... I-I didn’t mean it like that...” Dick protested but Wally knew him to well to believe
anything else.

“Yes, you did otherwise you would have realised what you had said,” Wally argued though
his anger wasn’t directed at the younger hero it was directed at Batman.

“He isn’t wrong though, maybe if I’d been here...” Dick tried to reason which only angered
the red head more.

“If you’d been here, it might have been you and that’s not me saying the kid deserved to die
over you, that’s me trying to reason how idiotic you sound. What happened to Robin isn’t
your fault and he’s wrong for ever putting that on you. You weren’t here on Batman’s orders,
the mission taking longer was unavoidable, just because you weren’t here doesn’t make it
your fault,” Wally tried getting through his friend's guilt complex, but he had a feeling it
wasn’t just Batman making his friend think he was the one to blame. “Why was Deathstroke
at your apartment?”

“Why else?” Dick asked rhetorically appreciating the change of topic event though he also
didn’t want to talk about this. He knew why Wally was asking, his habit of blaming himself
for things that weren’t his fault always picked up when the mercenary was around. “Trying to
talk me into joining him again and telling me that he’d be sticking around long enough to
‘test’ my abilities.”

“Barbara showed me the note he left, seems like he did more than that,” Wally pushed he
already knew but he needed Dick to tell him.

“For whatever reason he patched up the stab wound I had from patrol, I don’t remember
much given I was concussed and exhausted, as well as... well you know...” Dick replied
honestly but he could tell from the speedster’s expression he had been expecting something
else to be said.

“I don’t want to believe this, because it could be Slade trying to mess with people knowing
you’d have visitors as he cleared your answer machine from what Barbara could tell,” Wally
began trying to figure out the best way to ask the question he needed to know the answer to,
but really there wasn’t a best way, especially when he shouldn’t even be asking this. “Did
Bruce hit you?”

Dick’s eyes widened which gave Wally his answer, but he still needed to hear it from Dick.

“Why would you think that?” Dick questioned his tone neutral, but Wally knew the signs
when his friend was avoiding things.

“I don’t want to believe it, but dodging the question is making me think what Deathstroke left
on the note is true,” Wally responded already planning on going to give Batman a piece of his
mind for laying a hand on his brother.

“It was nothing, I deserved it...” Dick began but Wally wasn’t having it.
“What makes you think you deserve that, he’s your dad, he shouldn’t have ever laid a hand
on you and before you argue about training that’s different and you know it,” Wally cut off
because there is no way Dick deserved that.

From what Slade had written he knew that the concealer his brother was wearing was clearly
covering the bruise left behind. He knew that Bruce had hit him hard if he felt the need to still
be covering it and from what Batgirl had said it had looked as if it had been done with
enough strength it could have dislocated Dick’s jaw.

“Wally...”

“No! You need to stop defending him when he’s the one in the wrong. You did it when he
fired you as Robin and now, you’re doing it again,” Wally argued not letting his friend get a
word in knowing he’d try to reason how he was the one at fault.

Dick sighed in defeat once more knowing that the speedster wasn’t going to let him explain
anything because he’d make it sound like he was at fault and deserved it. Wally never let him
get away with blaming himself for things or putting himself down so Dick gave up trying to
reason with him.

“I have work to do, we’ll talk more later,” Dick said walking back towards the training room
ignoring how Wally called after him.

He took a few deep breaths to compose himself as he didn’t need anyone especially the
newer recruits sensing anything was bothering him. He was their leader and couldn’t afford
to show his stresses around them.

Walking in those who knew him truly glanced towards him with knowing looks most likely
having conspired against him. It wouldn’t be that surprising, especially with how Kaldur had
been called away last minute. Really, he should have been prepared for form of talk, Slade
had warned him someone had found the note he left behind, but Dick had thought nothing of
it at the time.

He watched as the last of the sparring matches finished up before taking back over the
training session hoping it would clear his head from his discussion with Wally.

As he explained the lesson for the day, he knew those that knew of Deathstroke were
watching him with careful eyes. He also knew to expect another talk after training given how
each of the older teen’s glanced at each other than back to him thinking he hadn’t noticed. He
rolled his eyes but continued with the training whilst also thinking how he could get his
family of his back because he really didn’t want to burden them with something he could deal
with on his own.

Slade would most likely disappear again after he's messed with him some more, that’s how it
works. Slade shows up randomly, tries getting in his head, they fight and then he’s gone
again. Last time may have gone differently as it was only the one appearance at his apartment
but even then, he handled it. He understood their concern, but he’d be fine, probably a little
tense for a while but he was anyway given everything with Bruce. He’d manage, he didn’t
need them to worry and burden themselves with his problems.
Slade is his issue. Them being around only creates more problems for him as it gives the
mercenary to something to hold against him. He didn’t need them to interfere this was his
problem and he’d deal with it like he has every other time.
 I'm Fine

Happy Harbour, May 23 rd , 7:04PM

Training wrapped up for the day Nightwing tried to make a quick and discreet exit from the
cave to avoid the inevitable talk with those that truly knew him and his past. He didn’t make
it far as Kid Flash was stood by the Zeta Tube console with a knowing look on his face
having expected his brother try to escape.

“Can we not do this here?” Dick asked not wanting any of the newer recruits involved in his
mess. “Or can we not do this at all because really I'm fine.”

“Come on man, talk to us,” Wally tried to reason.

“Why didn’t you say he was back?” Barbara asked in concern.

“Because it’s nothing new, it goes by a routine every time he shows up, tries messing with my
head, does his whole test thing then he’s gone again,” Dick explained regretting agreeing to
cover for Kaldur. “I can handle it; you’ve all got more important things to be dealing with so
let me deal with Deathstroke. I appreciate the concern, but I’ll be fine.”

“We’re not going to just let you deal with him alone,” Artemis argued not caring if others
overheard, they needed to get through to the stubbornness that is Dick Grayson. “You might
have to fight him alone which we understand but you don’t have to go through it alone,
especially now with everything else going on.”

“We’re family, we’re supposed to have each other's backs, you’re always there to help us so
why not allow yourself that same support,” Wally pushed further trying to get through his to
his brother.

“Because...” Dick sighed faltering off because he didn’t have a logical argument.

His excuse was because he was the one, they looked up to therefore he shouldn’t need the
support, but they’d call him a hypocrite for that given he’d always be there for Kaldur when
things were hard for him. He couldn’t say anything Slade being his problem because they
wouldn’t except that, if one of their own is in danger there is a duty to protect.

Not that he is in danger, Slade wouldn’t kill him, that was proven a few nights ago when he’d
patched up his injury. They should know he’s somewhat safe in regard to the mercenary from
previous encounters since his return to the hero life after Bruce was almost killed.
Deathstroke had had numerous opportunities to take him but had never done so making it
clear that he wanted Dick to return to his side by choice. Dick would never do that so really;
they were worrying for nothing.

This time might be different compared to previous occasions when the mercenary has shown
with all the added stress factors but for Dick it doesn‘t change things.
“Look I’m fine, you’ve got nothing to worry about...”

“Nightwing...”

“Recognized Batman 02”

Great just what he needed, his father showing up during some form of intervention.

As soon as Batman emerged from the teleportation device, he immediately noticed the
defence stance of his son and how the other older teens had somewhat surrounded him. He
didn’t need to know what was going on Alfred had informed him of something occurring, but
Bruce was too ashamed of his actions to discover what.

He hadn’t meant anything he said to his eldest son, nor did he mean to... It made him sick
thinking if that, that he laid his hand on his kid out of anger.

“Batman,” Dick greeted and Bruce could easily detect the coldness and nervousness in his
son’s tone despite how the teen tried to conceal it. “What brings you here?” Dick questioned
glancing towards the other teens thinking this was another set up.

Bruce should really take this time to apologise but with Dick clearly being on edge about
something else he decided to stick to business, he’ll talk to him when they can be alone,
“intel has been received on a weapons shipment in Blüdhaven...”

As Batman explained the details of the mission Wally had to keep himself from exploding at
the man. The only reason he didn’t go off at Batman was because of Dick’s expression when
the Zeta announced his arrival. He looked scared for a brief moment but was quick to
neutralize his expression and if Wally didn’t know any better, he’d think nothing was wrong
with his friend at all.

“I’ll run point, ‘Haven doesn’t like people like us there so best this is a small team,” Dick
suggested keeping to business after Batman had briefed them. “Superboy, M’gann and if
you’re up for it Artemis.”

The two aliens nodded in agreement and then turned towards the archer.

“Sure thing, I’m not out the game yet,” Artemis agreed not missing the worried glance from
Wally.

“Okay, I’ll scout the area when on patrol tonight then formulate a plan of action, we’ll
rendezvous here tomorrow night at 8PM,” Dick announced making his way towards the Zeta
tube thinking he’d be able to get out of the team's mother-henning.

“Nightwing a word, in private,” Batman said not missing how the teen’s shoulders tensed as
he typed in Blüdhaven’s coordinates on the Zeta control panel.

Dick sighed but nodded gesturing for his father to follow.

“Nightwing?” Wally questioned out of concern when his friend began walking towards the
booted teleportation.
“Don’t worry about me, I’ll be fine,” Dick reassured continuing on until he was surrounded
by the beam of yellow light announcing his departure closely followed by the dark knight.

Blüdhaven, May 23 rd , 7:28PM

“Recognised Batman 02, Nightwing B-01.”

Dick kept his back to his father as they emerged in the warehouse where th ‘Haven Zeta tube
was located. He was on edge not knowing why his father wanted to speak privately. It could
be a number of things given everything going on currently and Dick really didn’t want to
have any form of discussion with the man.

“I-If you’re going to apologise for what happened don’t, it was my fault, I shouldn’t have
pushed you, I’m sorry,” Dick began not really knowing what else to say in the moment.

Bruce stayed silent. He had intended to apologise for his actions but there was a tone in
Dick’s voice that told him it would be best not to. If anything, he should just turn around and
leave the boy be as it was clear whatever was going on through his head, he didn’t want to
talk about it.

“Here,” Dick continued retrieving something from his utility belt and handing it to Bruce. “I
tried getting Babs to take it back, but she wouldn’t so figured I’d give it back myself knowing
I’d see you eventually.”

Batman remained silent as he looked at the item, realising it was his son’s key to the manor,
the key he told him to leave out of anger. He pushed the teen’s hand away not excepting the
item because that was Dick’s home, he hadn’t meant what he said he was just...

“Bruce just take it, I’d be giving it back in a few months anyway when I turn eighteen as I
won’t be your responsibility anymore,” Dick pushed forcing the item into the dark knight's
hand. “The only time I’ll be on your property is when visiting my parents otherwise you’ll
only see me for meetings.”

“Dick...” Bruce began but Dick continued.

“You’ve done a lot for me over the years and I’m grateful but... I’ll be fine, I’m not your
partner anymore and in a few months, you’ll no longer be my legal guardian and I won’t be
burdening you anymore, you can go back to doing things your way without worrying
about...”

“Dick, stop,” Bruce lowered the cowl in hopes that if his son saw his face he’d know his
words were true. “I... I’m sorry for failing you, I should have informed you of Jason when it
happened, and I should never have...”

“I deserved it, I pushed you and you’re probably right if I was here maybe he’d still be here,”
Dick pushed cutting his father off. “You were hurt, grieving and angry and I said all the
wrong things instead of trying to support you. Maybe if I hadn’t spent so long avoiding you
and the kid, I could have helped you train him instead of... You were right when you said I
resented him, I did at first, but it wasn’t because of the adoption, I... Robin wasn’t yours to
give away, y-you know why I chose that name, what it meant to me, I just... Jason wore it
proudly and respected it but... it hurt seeing someone wearing the name that my mother gave
me. I know I stopped using it when... But it was still mine, I know it sounds selfish but...”

“I’m sorry,” Bruce picked up where Dick faltered off knowing there’d be tears in his son’s
eyes from his voice.

When he stepped closer to try to comfort his son, Dick flinched at his movement.

“Dick, I...”

“I know, sorry I just...” he didn’t know what to say, could he really tell Bruce about Slade
popping back up while he was still mourning Jason. “It’s nothing, I’m fine, just got some
other stuff going on.”

Bruce knew his son was hiding something but didn’t press knowing if he did it would likely
cause an argument and he didn’t want that. He placed the key Dick had forced on him on the
Zeta console deciding it would best to leave now rather than create more tension.

“You know where I am if you need me,” Bruce said as he made his departure back to
Gotham.

“Yeah,” Dick muttered in agreement not meeting his father’s gaze. “I’ll be fine though, it’s
nothing I can’t handle. I’ll send you a debrief after the mission tomorrow.”

Bruce hummed in acknowledgement as he disappeared into the yellow beam of light vacating
the warehouse.

Dick breathed a sigh of relief at finally being on his own, he didn’t think he’d last another
second under the judgemental eye of Batman. It could have gone worse, but it also could
have gone better. His nerves got the better of him which led him to saying things he’d rather
have not said but it’s not like he could take them back now.

He needed to clear his head. Any tension that had faded with training had come back with a
vengeance as his stress levels had increased tenfold since dismissing the team.

He knew his family meant well with their attempted intervention but it’s like he keeps saying,
he’s fine, he’s got everything under control. The discussion with Batman didn’t improve
anything as he was always stressed after having any form of conversation with him.

He’s just hopping Slade doesn’t make an appearance tonight because that is the last thing he
needs right now. If he does, then he’ll handle it, but he could do without the mercenary
tonight, already knowing that he’d be facing him the night after the mission.

It’s fine, whatever happens he’ll manage it.

He just needs to get out and clear his head little by flying over rooftops and he’ll be perfectly
fine.
 Getting In His Head

Blüdhaven, May 23 rd , 11:38PM

After spending a few hours leaping over rooftops and taking down petty thugs Nightwing had
made his way towards the docks where the weapons shipment was to come in tomorrow
evening. He had suspicions that a certain mercenary may be involved with the dealings which
is why the small team he put together for the mission itself was only with those who knew
how Deathstroke operated.

It could be coincidence Slade showing up just as a shipment is sent into ‘Haven but typically
coincidences were not associated with the mercenary.

It’s like how he always managed to turn up knowing exactly where Dick would be as if he
knows what his every move is. That thought sends shivers through the teen’s spine as he
hates knowing that Slade always seems to know where he is or has been.

If Deathstroke is involved with this weapon dealing, then Nightwing fully expects him to
drop in while he’s scouting the location even though he really hopes he doesn’t. He’s dealt
with enough today and Slade is the last person he needs to interact with.

The mercenary knows how to get inside his head and right now that would be dangerous as it
will through Dick off his game. Slade typically did affect him but usually he didn’t have so
many other issues to deal with at the same time and could handle it easy. He’ll still be able to
handle Slade but after the last interaction Dick’s anxiety is flaring slightly.

If the mercenary does show he needs to keep a cool head, not let Deathstroke’s words get to
him like he had previously. Hopefully last time was a one off and he can blame it on the
exhaustion from the mission and emotional drainage from his fight with Bruce. Sure, things
today have been a little overwhelming but he’s in a better headspace now, he’s got this.

As if on que Nightwing heard the purposely loud footfalls on the roof behind him, the pattern
of the steps one he had memorised permanently.

“Figured you’d be involved in this,” Nightwing stated standing to full height and drawing his
escrima sticks.

“What makes you so certain? I could be ensuring my apprentice does not repeat last week's
events by nearly getting himself killed,” Slade’s smirk was hidden behind the mask, but Dick
knew it was there.

“Apparently, you’re not as watchful as you try to make me believe because I’ve kept in check
since then, even with you trying to goad me,” Dick countered firmly gripping his weapon in
preparation for an attack.

“You have; however, you also have not had any interaction with the bat up until today so I’m
merely ensuring no unnecessary damage comes to my apprentice.” Slade stated sounding
bored.

“I’m not your apprentice,” Dick spat and managed to keep his anger to a minimum.

“Little bird, whether you like it or not you are my apprentice, you accepted my offer back
when you were still in the bats shadow and even if you are not currently active in my ranks, I
still own you no matter how much you try to hide it,” the minute shift of the mercenary’s
head told Dick where he was looking, directly where the man branded him.

“In case you're forgetting I got myself out...”

“You got out because you were foolish enough to take a bullet for, your pathetic excuse of a
father and look where that got you. He lost his trust in you and fired you as his partner,
replaced you gave your identity to another, that same boy became his full-fledged child while
you will always remain his burden, that’s not to mention whatever fight you two got into that
would warrant him striking you, however I understand the need to discipline you, you
haven’t always been the best at following orders,” Slade interrupted and he could tell his
words were grating on the teen even if he tried not to show it.

“What you did wasn’t discipline, it was about control and fear both of which you don’t have
over me anymore,” Dick snarled cursing himself for showing the mercebary his words were
getting to him. “Seen as though you’re here I might as well put a stop to you now, save
myself the trouble tomorrow when dealing with the rest of the shipment.”

“My dear Renegade...”

“DON’T! Call me that,” Dick growled but Slade paid no notice and continued.

“If you were capable of stopping me you would have by now, but you know better, you know
that even if you could take me down you won’t as I hold so many secrets of yours, secrets
that if they got out would cause a lot of harm for you and your so-called friends,” Slade
chuckled drawing his blade because if the kid wanted a fight he wasn’t going to disappoint
this time.

“What happened to honour Slade, last I checked you gave your word identities wouldn’t be
revealed,” Dick cocked his head as if amused to conceal how much his anxieties were rising
at the threat.

“And my word still holds true little bird,” Slade smirked his tone condescending. “I could
reveal what daddy dearest did to his eldest child, that would put shame on his name and with
the rumours that he was abusive given how often you were injured well...”

“You wouldn’t,” Dick said in a warning tone.

“Try me,” Slade pushed gesturing for the teen to attack him.

Nightwing knew the game Deathstroke was trying to play and yet he still went for the attack,
it didn’t matter if Slade was bluffing, he couldn’t risk the man doing anything like his threat
suggested.
He dodged under the sword, before backflipping back in front of the mercenary to try and
throw him off but Slade was prepared and slashed again towards him. He barely blocked the
attack with his escrima and was distracted by the sword he missed the fist that quickly
connected with his side. He knew the hit would have broken his stiches, but the wound
should be closed enough that it wouldn’t be much of an issue.

“You’re losing your touch kid,” Slade mocked in a patronizing tone. “Seems me leaving you
to your own devices for so long has made you soft.”

Nightwing didn’t get the chance to recover from the previous blow before the mercenary was
attacking again sending him to the ground his sword aimed towards his neck keeping him
down.

“I expected better from you little bird,” Slade edge the blade closer the tip piercing the teen’s
neck ever so slightly. “If you are not on your full game tomorrow evening, as you were
correct in my involvement of this job, then you can assure I will be keeping watch until you
are. I cannot have my apprentice become anything less than worthy. Tomorrow, you will
impress and if not, well I’m sure you’re already aware of the consequences.”

The mercenary withdrew his weapon and sheathed it back in its appropriate place smirking
under the mask as the teen wearily stood still acting as if unafraid. He could tell differently,
Grayson can act all he wants, Slade knows the kids tells for when he’s on edge.

“Until next time little bird,” Slade said as he threw down a smoke grenade and vanished
without a trace as usual.
 The Bat And The Terminator
Chapter Notes

Unlikely to be another chapter today as with AO3 being down I ventured to the outside
world to my nearest comic shop which is an hour train ride away to pick up the new
Teen Titans: World's Finest and therefore haven't started to write the next chapter.

The planning for it is laid out just needs tying up but as I'm yet to eat today and its
nearing 10PM will probably just do that tomorrow.

Gotham City, May 24 th 1:08AM

Despite Alfred trying to keep him from patrolling given his violence and carelessness since
the death of Robin, since Jason, Batman was out in the crime-ridden streets of Gotham. He’d
been edging towards the line a lot more since the death of the second Robin and that started
when he caught up to Joker and almost killed him. He would have had it not been for the
Commissioner firing the warning shot at him, he still wanted to despite that. He may not have
ended the clown prince of crime, but he did enough damage to put him in a full body cast
which will keep him in Arkham a long time.

His violence did not stop at the rogues of Gotham... He regrated it as soon as it happened but
he was so clouded by his grief he let his anger continue. Dick hadn’t deserved that, the boy
was right, Jason’s death was his fault. He’d allowed him in the field to early and it cost him
his life.

He couldn’t help but worry for his first son after their early talk, he knew something was
going on but with how strained their relationship is he was afraid to ask. He had a feeling of
what it might be but without his son telling him or finding proof he would not have his
answer.

One thing he does know is that it's not just about their fight or the discovery of his brother’s
passing. Dick seemed on edge more so than usual as if afraid of something, that matter was
proven clear when he flinched at Bruce’s movement. He was sincere sounding when he said
he knows his father wouldn’t hurt him so that reaction was caused by whatever else was on
his mind.

Alfred had mentioned the trouble the teen had gotten himself into the night after the
argument, how the following morning he and Barbara had made the trip to Blüdhaven and
found him moderately injured. The butler had refused to give details wanting him to go see
Dick for himself, but he made it clear that Dick hadn’t been alone after returning home to his
apartment. He tried question his pseudo-father, but Alfred refused to say anything else and
told him to speak with the teen himself to find out more.
That had been his intention today after giving the mission brief but arriving at the mountain
to see the older teen’s surrounding his son as if interrogating him, he knew Dick would avoid
talking to him. He still tried and was shocked when the teen opened up to him about certain
things, even more shocked when he started blaming himself for Robin’s death. Then when
Dick had started saying how in a few months he wouldn’t be his problem and tried forcing
the key Bruce had regretfully told him to leave at the manor during their fight... It was then
that his gut feeling had become more than that.

He didn’t have proof and Dick hadn’t said anything directly, but Bruce couldn’t help but feel
that at some point Deathstroke has shown his face.

It was the protective yet worried aura of the team, the fact Alfred would not tell him who he
suspected was at Dick’s apartment and how his son had changed to agreeing that he was at
fault, and he was a problem. Dick always had an issue when it came to blaming himself for
things but when it came with self-degradations that usually partnered with a certain
mercenary pulling strings in his head. It would also explain why he might have flinched at
Bruce’s movement, whenever Slade does come back around that was a natural trauma
response for the teen.

It comes with his PTSD, the little tells that suggest he’s had a run in the mercenary even if he
doesn’t admit it to anyone. Such as last year when he first moved to ‘Haven to strike out on
his own after Bruce fired him as Robin, the boy didn’t say anything to him, but Bruce could
tell Slade had been around at the time. He closed off from everyone for a little while and
when he was around others he was on edge, flinching ever so slightly at certain movements
and noises. Bruce may not have been around him much at the time, but Barbara was, and she
had informed the dark knight of other behaviours she noticed in the former boy wonder.

She had told him of the lack of appetite, the dissociating, irregular breathing when
overwhelmed bordering on panicking and the screaming nightmare she had roused him from
when she made an unexpected visit to him.

Bruce knew Slade had been around then but never said anything hoping his son would come
to him, but he never did.

This time round he needs to confront Dick about the mercenary, the boy might think he can
handle the situation alone, which he is fully capable of doing but it’s not something he should
do. He has people that will always look out for him and that includes Bruce despite how
things have been between them recently.

He’s already lost one son, he won’t let Slade take the other, he needs to get Dick to open up
to him without it seeming like an attempt at controlling his life.

Unfortunately, that will have to wait for the time being as a group of drug dealers in the alley
below has just caught his attention.

Deathstroke watches from a nearby vantage point of the bat’s violent attack on the
petty criminals. He can see where his little bid’s hostility comes from, the bat is also showing
more aggression than usual for him.
The mercenary hadn’t planned in having any dealings with the dark knight wanting to stick
with his target of interest, but he needs to keep some kind of rift between father and son. To
do that he has to reveal himself to the detective so he will question the teen which in turn will
make the boy close off thinking it is to do with a lack of trust.

With the encounters he’s had with the little bird he knows his plan will work as he’s pushed
the buttons that play on the kid’s doubt in his abilities, something that’s always there but he
knows how to make it increase tenfold.

Richard will push himself away from the bat and further into his hands without realising he’s
playing his game.

He needs the kid to come to him so he can redirect the teen’s emotion cause in his current
state, he’s become sloppy with his fighting. It’s led by anger and not skill. Slade knows he
plays a part in that anger but that will always be there when it comes to him. However right
now the little bird is too emotional, he needs guidance, guidance that Deathstroke can provide
if he can get the teen to drop his guard.

Which he will.

Damaging the already rocky relationship between father and son will lead to that and then the
little bird will be his to mould once more. This time round will be temporary, Slade already
knows this, as soon as the kid is out his rut he’ll go back to the heroes. However, it will lay
some important groundwork to make the teen more agreeable to work opportunities in the
future.

If his plan in involving the bat in his game goes accordingly all it will take is a few words of
praise and making the teen feel wanted to get him to see in a different light. This hadn’t been
his original intention when planning to check in with Grayson but knowing the bats actions,
how he struck the boy, it was too good an opportunity to pass up.

As the bat finished laying into the thugs down below Slade made his move dropping from the
rooftop he had been concealed on into the alley where the dark knight stood.

“I see where my apprentice gets his violence from,” Slade smirked making himself known.
“But it’s not just criminals you're disciplining now, is it?”

Batman’s eyes widened behind the cowl as Slade had now confirmed his suspicions, but he
hated to think his son would have told the mercenary of what occurred.

“Deathstroke,” Bruce growled his voice laced with venom as he readied into a fighting
stance.

“I don’t come here to fight Batman, merely to warn you that the little bird has been keeping
things from you again,” Slade explained unbothered the vigilantes threatening tone. “After all
the last time he kept secrets, he fell from the nest and into a cage.”

“Stay away from him.” Bruce warned curious as to why Slade would reveal himself when he
wants Dick as his apprentice, as surely it would make it easier for him if Bruce wasn’t
involved.

“If I were to do that, he would have been dead,” Slade began his smirk still in place but
concealed by the mask. “I’m sure by now you’re aware I was within his home; I was the one
to treat his little stab wound which he would have passed out from exhaustion before doing
himself.”

Bruce tried to keep his expression neutral as he didn’t know for certain it was Slade but had
suspicions. He couldn’t give anything away to the mercenary, he couldn’t play his game
because that would spell danger for his son.

“You should know the job he’s working which will no doubt going to involve the junior
heroes is my job,” Slade added knowing the bat would interfere and try to deter the bird from
joining the fight straining that bridge of trust between the two further. “If you no what’s best
for him you won’t try to hide him from me because as you can see I know his every move.”

Batman’s fists balled at the implied threat to his son but other than that tried not to react
knowing that is most likely what Deathstroke wanted him to do.

“It’s how I know you were the one to mark his face and I’m surprised his jaw didn’t dislocate
considering how bad it looked,” Slade knew he hit a nerve with that comment from how the
sound of leather constricting increased and the dark knight glared at him. “I knew he went
back to your domain and when I saw him, that bruise was too new to be on the escapade you
sent him on in Europe but it wasn’t old enough to be from the trouble he got himself into that
night and after a little prodding it was clear you were the one to strike the little bird.”

Bruce’s patience was growing thin especially when Slade revealed he knew where Dick had
been for almost two months. His son was undercover and the only ones to know the location
of the mission besides the two others on it were himself and Captain Atom. Slade shouldn’t
have that knowledge especially since he had been in the states the whole-time which Bruce
only knew because of incidents that occurred that matched with Slade’s line of work.

He had always been suspicious of how the mercenary always seemed to know where his kid
was when he showed up but had put it as coincidence even if that wasn’t often associated
with Slade. Now he was terrified for his son’s safety because Slade has just admitted he has
some way of always knowing his son’s location.

“It seems this is where our conversation ends,” Slade said gesturing to the sky where the Bat-
Signal was illuminating the smog that settles over the city. 2Head my warning if the little bird
is not there tomorrow, I will find him and hurt him a lot worse than I would have otherwise.”

With that the mercenary vanished into the night and Batman was half-tempted to ignore the
signal to go after him. It would be futile; Slade was not someone who was easily tracked and
would not be found unless he purposely wanted to.

Batman grappled to the opposite building where Slade had vanished towards the GCPD, not
being to help the worry overwhelming him for his son.
 My Problem

Blüdhaven, May 24th, 10:36AM

Dick stayed out later than he should have last night resulting in him oversleeping and running
late for his meeting with Dinah for a check in. He didn’t intend to stay out as late as he did
but after the encounter with Slade he was too riled up to go back to his apartment and decided
to spend an extra hour on patrol just to cool off.

That extra hour ended up being almost five and once again he was crawling through his
apartment window at the crack of dawn at least this time it wasn’t half delirious and there
were no unexpected guests waiting for him.

He’d called Dinah ahead to let her know he was running late and apologise; she was
understanding as always but something in her voice made Dick uneasy.

He was probably overthinking things with everything going on, but still, he couldn’t shake
the feeling. It was most likely Wally, Babs or even Alfred had called her and told her Slade
was back so she could try and pry some information out of him. That sounds like the most
logical answer and something his family would do in attempts to look out for him.

He appreciates that they want it help and are concerned but wishes they would just drop the
subject and let him handle it alone. It would keep them safe, well safer if they weren’t
involved because Slade wouldn’t try to use them against him as much.

Slade knows the easiest way to get in his head is to bring up those he cares about which is
why when the mercenary does show up, he tries to minimise those around him. Sure, the
mercenary still makes his threats towards the others, but they don’t feel as real when they’re
not around.

Last night he was careless, he let Slade in, he let him toy with him when he should have
stayed neutral and unreactive. However, when he threatened Bruce... Dick couldn’t risk that
happening no matter how stained his relationship with his father is. He knows it was a threat
and Slade wouldn’t have gone through with it as it would put identities at risk because for his
all evil one thing Slade has never done is gone back on word, it was said just to get him to
react.

Deathstroke’s right he is still scared of him and his threats, no matter how much he pretends
not to be.

He arrived at the warehouse fifteen minutes later than the original meeting time, they were
using the warehouse as Dick didn’t want to appear weak to the younger teens as he was
supposed to be their co-leader and he was trying to avoid Bruce at the moment, so
Watchtower was a no go today.

As entered the warehouse to meet with the blonde he was shocked to find his father also
waiting for his arrival along with the female hero.
“What are you doing here?” Dick asked his tone had an edge of worry and now he was
thinking this might be why Dinah had sounded off on the phone earlier, judging by the guilt
in her eyes Dick was most likely correct in his assumption.

“Deathstroke was in Gotham last night,” Bruce answered not missing the slight shift in the
teen’s stance as if he was ready to bolt from the warehouse. “He implied he has had
interactions with you since you got back.”

Of course, Bruce knows, because if someone spilled to Dinah then... Wait Gotham? Slade
was here last night, Dick knows, he fought him. Kind of.

“Why was he in Gotham?” Dick questioned avoiding the part about Slade having confronted
him.

“Dick, have you seen him since coming home?” Dinah asked her tone concerned unlike
Bruce’s Batman voice mode.

“Seems you already know the answer to that because why else would you be here,” the
question was directed at his father and asked in a distant tone.

“To find out why you haven’t said anything knowing how dangerous he is,” Bruce answered
Batman voice still in place but there was also a hint of the over-protective father Dick had
grown to miss.

“Because he’s my problem,” Dick replied his voice coming off slightly argumentative. “It’s
me he wants, it’s me he’s after, therefore my responsibility to deal with. It’s not like anyone
can step in to help anyway...”

“Just because it's you he targets doesn’t mean you need to handle him alone,” Dinah
interjected trying to reason with the teen. “You’ve got so many people that are willing to help
you even if you think they can’t...”

“I know I’ve got friends to help but they can’t without putting themselves in danger, if they
get involved Slade will kill them, I don’t want any of their deaths on my conscience,” Dick
interrupted leaving out how others being involved directly affects him as he wasn’t concerned
about what happened to himself so long as everyone else was safe. “It’s why I think tonight
should be left to just me, ‘Haven doesn’t do well with our community anyway and with
Deathstroke being involved...”

“You are not dealing with this on your own,” Bruce cut in his tone final. “You can still run
point, but you are not to engage on your own.”

“Bruce, from the intel you gave us it could easily be a one-man job if done right...”

“No,” Bruce’s voice was even sterner now. “This is a direct order, you are not to engage
alone, you will be having back-up and with Deathstroke being involved I’m assigning
Aqualad and Batgirl to join the team already assemble, no arguments or you off the
mission.”
“Off the mission, this is my city Bruce therefore anything going on here is my responsibility,
just like anything in Gotham is yours,” Dick argued ignoring how Canary tried to reason with
him.

“Dick, he’s dangerous, you need the extra support. You may be capable, more than even
but...”

“If anyone else were to try and fight him he’ll kill them, he won’t do that to me, he’s hand
plenty of chances in the past to and never has,” Dick continued talking over Dinah.

He’s knows there just trying to look out for him and make sure he’s protected but he can’t
have that with Slade. The mercenary doesn’t allow room for others to get involved with their
fights, he threatens causing Dick more harm if they try. Deathstroke his his to handle alone,
with him involved no-one else should be going on the mission, but now Bruce has put to
more lives in his hands.

He can’t get them involved. He won’t get them involved he’ll handle this himself like its
meant to be. He’ll head down to the docks early before having to meet with the team and do
the job himself.

“Why was he at your apartment?” Bruce questioned the concern in his voice more evident.
“Don’t avoid the question because he admitted he was there, and said he treated one of your
injuries.”

“Fine, he was, and he did,” Dick partly answered annoyed that it seemed his father trusted
Deathstroke’s word more than him.

“Why was he there, Dick?” Bruce repeated irritation now clear as his son hadn’t answered
him properly.

“You’re a detective thought you’d already know.”

“Dick...” Dinah tried knowing a full argument between the teen and his father was starting to
brew.

“Why else would he be there?” Dick asked rhetorically as to him the question was
meaningless given Slade only ever showed up for one thing. “He didn’t come for a friendly
chat and a catch up; he showed up to try and get in my head like he does every time he comes
back. He was there to play mind games and put me on edge to wait for whatever ‘test’ he
wants to do this time...”

“Tonight?” Bruce questioned.

“Possibly, he said he’d be in touch.”

“Are the team aware of his presence?” Bruce asked already suspecting this was the case
given how they had the boy surrounded yesterday. “Is that what you were referring to when
you told Kid Flash, you’d be fine and not to worry?”
Dick didn’t really know how to answer this because it wasn’t just Slade that had Wally
worried, it was Bruce. He saw the look the speedster directed at Batman when he arrived
yesterday and just before they left, he had to reassure his friend that he’d be okay with his
father. Could he tell that to Bruce? Should he tell him that others know what he did and are
worried for his safety around him.

“They know but that isn’t the only thing that has them concerned,” the look he directed at his
former mentor gave his answer as to what else the team more so Wally and probably Barbara
is worried about.

He wouldn’t directly say it with others present, it wouldn’t be right especially since he knows
he deserved it. It wouldn’t be fair on Bruce if he said anything in front of Dinah, the man had
apologised for his words and actions after all even if Dick hadn’t really accepted it and
brushed it off agreeing that it had been his fault.

“Sorry Dinah but I can’t do this right now so can we reschedule,” Dick asked not in the mood
to be dealing with either adult right now.

“Dick...”

“Please, I just... Please,” Dick tried a tiredness in his voice that comes when he’s
overwhelmed with emotions.

“Okay, tomorrow morning same time,” Dinah agreed reluctantly knowing that while the teen
may be dealing with a lot, he still needs an outlet to get things off his chest.

She expected the boy to back out from their planned session as soon as Batman spoke to her
saying he needed to speak to his son and would be accompanying her today. He gave brief
details as to what was going on which is why she accepted but she felt guilty for going
behind the younger’s back as she was supposed to be someone, he could fully trust not to say
anything to his father. The only thing she would share is when sessions are scheduled which
was agreed upon with Dick beforehand as at the time he was still living at home, and he kept
it up after out of habit.

Dick nodded once at the rearrangement and vacated the warehouse without a word leaving
his father and Dinah behind.

“What did you do?” Dinah asked having not missed the teen’s look when he said the team
were worried about something else other than Deathstroke.

Bruce didn’t answer instead turning to the Zeta and just like his son left in silence the only
sound being the announcement from the teleportation of his departure.
 Unknowingly Playing The Game
Chapter Notes

Link to my Twitter- https://twitter.com/Topaz_Girl1?

t=5kguCKcOh9NSnX2tcv3Y1g&s=09&fbclid=IwAR0w565eYY08w11Lq1m4MoCSq
CksRumnfvcZtVBcKslONr5kkEC-iRY2484

Going to start using twitter to promote future works and if anyone has any requests
please feel free o message and I'll try to work them in to future stories. Also please feel
fee to send any of your own works as I love reading as much as I love writing especially
anything Dick Grayson centric. Bonus if its Dick hurt/comfort as that is my happy place.

Blüdhaven, May 24 th , 6:57PM

Was this a bad idea, most likely but Nightwing didn’t have much of a choice.

He was perched on the same rooftop he had been the previous night when he encountered the
mercenary. He had to do this alone, no one understood the consequences except him, they
were all to focused on trying to protect him that they weren’t thinking of themselves.

Okay, maybe he was being hypocritical with that statement given he was doing the same
thing thinking about their safety over his, but it was different. The needs of the many
outweigh the needs of the few, the lives of numerous people were more important than his
singular.

He rolled his neck easing the tension that had settled over him since the earlier confrontation
with his former mentor. Maybe if Bruce didn’t try to take control of the situation and threaten
to take him off the mission Dick would have kept to the plan but... At the end of the day
Slade is only interested in him, the others are pawns that the mercenary doesn’t mind
breaking if it hurts him. He knows he’s safe from death, the others are not which is why he
has to keep them away.

He didn’t bring his comm with him knowing that the others would try calling in to find out
where he was, he didn’t need that distraction. They’d realise soon enough; it won’t take a
detective to figure out what he’s doing. He’s just hoping by the time the others do show Slade
would have finished his fun with him and left.

The dealing of the weapons wasn’t set to take place until 9PM but there were already
smugglers gathered guarding what Dick could only presume was the shipment. He had yet to
locate Slade but that was to be expected, Deathstroke would only be seen if he wanted to be.
However, if the mercenary was here already, he most definitely would know Nightwing was
as well which nerved the vigilante. He hated knowing that Slade could be watching, and he
had no idea where the mercenary was.

He’s going to be in so much trouble when the others realise what he’s doing, and no doubt
Batman will try to bench him from further missions. Bruce may still technically be his legal
guardian for another few months, but he lost the right to bench him when he fired him from
Robin. He had little control over the team now, so even if he tries Dick won’t listen, he’s not
a kid anymore, Bruce can’t ground him or take heroing away from him.

He needs to not think about his former mentor, it acts as a distraction, and he needs to focus
now more than ever. He needs to keep his head clear and focus on the task at hand.

It’s why he tried not thinking about Jason, it hurt but he had to keep thoughts of his little
brother out of his head while Slade’s around. It would be an easy target for him to use in
attempts to get into Dick’s head, something he’d already tried, and Dick let it get to him. It’s
also why he was yet to visit his brother’s grave, he needed to keep his thoughts clear of Jason
to not let Slade get to him on that front.

It wasn’t just Hason’s grave he was avoiding but his family’s specifically his uncle Rick
whose anniversary had passed just before he got back. He had intended to visit the day he
went to the manor but then everything with Bruce had happened and he learnt the fate of his
little brother. After Deathstroke showed up Dick knew visiting would be a bad idea with the
mercenary around, it would hurt too much as Slade had interference in his uncle’s death. Rick
may have been destined to die but... Slade corrupted it, gave his passing an added darkness.

“Focus,” Dick reprimanded himself shaking his head to clear those thoughts as he continued
observing where the smugglers were guarding.

He could jump in now and try to destroy the shipment before the buyer arrives but that could
lead to missing his chance on trying to deal with Deathstroke. Without knowing if the
mercenary is here or not, he couldn't make any premature decisions. The sooner Slade was
dealt with the sooner he’d vanish back into the woodwork, which is something that needed to
happen, that or he needed to be put behind bars, but that second option was unlikely to occur.

“You seem to be lacking that alot recently,” Slade’s voice sounded from behind him startling
him as he had not noticed the mercenary’s approach. “It’s good to know you still know how
to follow instructions but I must say, I’m surprised to find you alone and not with your little
friends.”

Nightwing turned slowly to face Deathstroke who had a weapon trained on him to deter any
attempts he may make to attack. He kept his expression neutral not showing any fear
knowing that’s exactly want Slade wants to see. As he faced the mercenary he took deep
calming breaths, staying silent to keep himself from reacting to any of the goading Slade
would do.

“I suspect my visit to daddy-bats is why you are alone, trying to prove yourself to him by
disobeying orders,” Slade questioned his head cocking amusedly. “I presume he tried to make
you stand down knowing my involvement, but of course you know what would have
happened had you done that and that is why you’ve come alone.”

“Let's just get this over with,” Dick stated not in the mood for any games. “You wanted me
here, so here I am...”

“Seems I must teach you patience as well as how to control your emotion,” Slade chided
smirking at the glare from the teen. “But for now, let's see if you have improved from
yesterday.”

Deathstroke holstered his gun before nodding the teen in challenge giving him the chance to
make the first move. The little bird however remained still; the only movement he dared
make was to move into a loose fighting stance. He was clearly nervous even if he tried to
conceal, he could do that all he wanted Slade knew how much the boy truly feared him.

“I don’t have all day little bird and if you don’t want your friends to interfere then neither do
you, now strike or this will hurt a lot more than it needs to,” Slade instructed his tone
patronizing but also controlling.

Nightwing delayed a moment more drawing in another breath, he could do this, he’s fought
the man countless times. Okay, he may not have ever won those battles, but he always held
his own.

He went to withdraw his escrima but stopped at the mercenary's voice.

“Without weapons little bird,” Dick hated how he followed the request as if Slade was still
controlling him like he had back when he was Renegade.

He feigned a leap as he made his first move but broke to sweep at Deathstroke’s legs hoping
to have him lose his footing. Unfortunately, Slade was quick to counter and brought his knee
to connect with the teen’s jaw from where he was crouched.

Nightwing lost his balancing a moment from the hit falling back but was pushed himself back
up with ease determined to carry on.

“Good attempt but you're forgetting I know how you think, you want a chance at winning you
need to be unpredictable, forget all you know let instinct takeover,” Slade guided like this
fight was nothing more than a lesson.

Nightwing tried to ignore Deathstroke’s words knowing it was his attempt to get inside his
head, make him second guess himself but as their fight continued it became increasingly
harder to shut him out.

He landed a kick to the mercenary’s front and before Slade could counter, he flipped over
him getting another hit to his back.

“You’re doing better than our previous encounter...”

“Shut up!” Dick snapped because he didn’t need words of praise from the mercenary.
Despite the kid’s outburst Slade knew just that mediocre bit of praise would linger especially
if the bats had unknowingly played his role by making the teen question himself. The boy’s
earlier lack of focus could mean he has but to test that theory he needs to continue pushing.

They battled on, Nightwing was slowing sticking to defensive, but Slade didn’t relent in his
attacks instead becoming more frequent and aggressive. Surprisingly, the kid still held his
own even with his lack of offensive moves.

“You’re doing good kid, but you won’t win on defensive manoeuvres alone, you need to
strike.”

Dick was still doing his best to pay as little attention to Deathstroke’s words as possible, he
tried to shake them off ignoring the slight warmth he got from each comment that held a
minute amount of praise. He couldn’t help it, it felt too familiar to how Bruce would coach
and teach him during his days as Robin.

Slade was not Bruce; he wasn’t coaching he was trying to play mind games. Dick needs to
remember that. This wasn’t training Deathstroke will hurt him without a second thought, he
isn’t doing this to teach, he’s doing this to get in his head. Dick hates to admit it’s partly
working.

Maybe if he hadn’t brushed his father off and actually allowed him to apologise rather than
accepting the blame Slade’s attempts at messing with him wouldn’t work, but as it is...

That thought wasn’t finished as the mercenary had pushed him close to the edge of the roof
they were on and Nightwing almost lost his footing. He would have had Slade not grab his
arm pulling him back up.

“You’re losing focus again, get out of your head and get to the present otherwise you’ll get
yourself or some else killed.”

Dick tried to jerk the hand off of him, but Deathstroke’s grip increased to that same bruising
grip he always used when trying to demonstrate his control.

Before either could say anything Nightwing noticed the camouflaged Bioship overhead
announcing the arrival of his teammates.

Slade saw the sift of the teen’s gaze from scowling at him to overhead also picking up on the
alien craft as it made to land on the warehouse rooftop where the weapons deal was set to
take place.

“Looks like the cavalry has arrived, however we have unfinished business to take care of.”
 What Is Wrong With Him?

Happy Harbour, May 24 th , 7:18PM

Kaldur had returned from his short to trip to Atlantis to visit Garth and Tula after Wally had
told him of some issues with Nightwing that needed to addressed sooner rather than later. He
would have preferred to be involved in the discussions with his second in command however
with how urgent the speedster made it seem he needed to be unavailable to force Dick to
return to the mountain earlier than he had planned.

He had been informed of the issue beforehand and understood Wally’s concern, Deathstroke
was always a sensitive subject for Dick and with the revelation of the second Robin’s death...
He’d need others to try to talk to him and make sure he didn’t do anything reckless such as go
after Slade alone which he had almost done before.

He among the others summoned for the mission were currently awaiting the arrival of
Nightwing for mission debriefing. True the younger had arranged to meet at 8PM but usually
he’d be extremely early to go over the plan himself numerous times and make sure he had
numerous back up plans. However, it was less than an hour before he set to meet, and no-one
had heard from him at all.

It wouldn’t be to concerning given everything he had going on, but he also had a session with
Dinah that morning something he’d always talk to Wally about after and the speedster hadn’t
heard from him.

Everyone had the same worrying thought that Deathstroke could have done something but
none of them voiced it. It was highly unlikely given how the mercenary hadn’t done anything
when he had numerous opportunities to and never did, he always stuck to a routine. He has
had countless opportunities to take Dick or force him into becoming his apprentice once
again, but he never did, always saying that eventually the teen would go back to him. It’s why
none of them voiced the thoughts they had because they knew it was just their own worry for
their brother because of the mercenary being around.

Nightwing wasn’t the only one that became on edge and nerved when Deathstroke returned,
he was the one that suffered the worst with it even if he tried not to show it, but they all had
their own fears of the villain. Their fears came from the worry for their younger brother as
Deathstroke targeted him and made it impossible for them to do anything except watch or
risk putting Nightwing at further risk.

After Dick returned to his Robin duties full-time after Renegade, Slade made a reappearance
and Kaldur himself had tried stepping in to protect the younger teen. Deathstroke however
would not except a fight with anyone else and even with Kaldur trying to distract him his
soul focus had been on Robin. He had managed to get close enough to inject something into
him, a poison and refused to give the ebony an antidote until the rest of the team stood down
and swore not to interrupt his fight with Robin. They hated it but relented not wanting to risk
their youngest members life.
“Still no word from him,” Barbara announced bringing the Atlantean out of his reverie. “I
tried his comm, his cell and landline at the apartment, there’s still no answer.”

“Have you tried contacting Batman perhaps Nightwing is with him,” Kaldur suggested not
missing the uneasy look that came across the red head at the mention of the dark knight.

“There not really talking right now because of Batman... well you know,” Barbara answered
leaving out the other part of the fight about how Bruce had hit Dick.

She had told Wally about it as she thought he’d have a better chance at getting Dick to slip up
about something than her who would try to ask him out right because of how concerned she
was. The others didn’t need to know that detail, really, she shouldn’t have told Wally as it
was a complete disregard of Dick’s trust, but how else would she help him. It's what annoyed
her most about him, he refused to accept help from anyone but was always the first to offer it.

“Might still be worth a try even if Batman hasn’t heard from him, he is the only one with
access to his trackers,” Artemis advised keeping the worry out of her voice. “At least then
we’ll know where he is.”

Batgirl nodded activating her comm once again to reach the dark knight who was most likely
brooding in the cave like he had been ever since Jason, the only time he’d leave is to go out
on patrol to put the hurt on criminals.

“Batgirl to Bat-Cave,” She started thankful that there was a crackle before Batman’s deep
gravelly voice sounded.

“What is it Batgirl?”

“Do you have a read on Nightwing’s location, no one is able to reach him, and he is yet to
arrive for the mission brief,” Barbara asked a hint of concern lingering in her voice from the
worry of something serious happening to her friend.

“Nightwing arranged to meet at 8PM...” Bruce began.

“Maybe so but you know that him giving a meeting time means nothing because he’d be
hours early to plan for everything and ensure there a back-ups in place because that’s how
you trained him,” Barbara interrupted in an arguing tone.

Batman did know that which is why he had pulled up his son’s status instantly when the red
head asked him for the information. He brushed her off not wanting to be disturbed but now
seeing where his son was...

“You all need to leave immediately, Nightwing has proceed alone against orders,” Bruce
instructed anger lacing his voice at his son’s recklessness. “It is believed Deathstroke is
involved with this operation therefore remain on high alert.”

That answers her unasked question of why her martyr friend would break off mission and
take the fight alone, he always tried minimising those around when Slade was back. She
understood his need to given how often the mercenary would threaten those Dick cares about,
but she wishes he wouldn’t as it puts him in more danger. When he closes himself of from
others to protect them, he’s unknowingly doing what the mercenary wants by isolating
himself which makes it easier for Deathstroke to get into his head.

“Acknowledge Batgirl out,” She stated looking towards the other teens to inform them of the
situation. “Nightwing is in Blüdhaven still however he’s not caught up in anything, he’s being
a self-sacrificing idiot and trying to complete the mission on his own. The reason for his
stupidity is because Deathstroke is believed to be involved in the weapons smuggling.”

There was no need for further explanation, they all knew what the younger teen was like
when the mercenary became involved.

“M’gann ready the Bioship we leave at once,” Kaldur instructed taking charge of the
situation.

The Martian nodded once taking off without a word to ready the alien craft so they could
leave as soon as possible.

“What is wrong with him?” Connor grumbled rolling his eyes in annoyance at his friend’s
idiocy. “Did he just not listen to anything yesterday?”

“He listened but didn’t take it in, like every time Deathstroke returns,2 Artemis said checking
over her equipment before they leave for ‘Haven. “You know how he gets; he becomes
protective, well more protective than usual and tries to minimise contact with everyone.”

“What happened to being a team and looking out for each other?”

“Unfortunately, Nightwing doesn’t grasp that ‘each other’ includes him even if he’s the one
to push we have each other's backs. He’s always been like that, even in school he’d stand up
for others but when people would turn on him, he’d have to do it alone, refused help from
anyone,” Barbara explained also completing a final check of her gear.

“We can discuss Nightwing’s recklessness after we ensure he is safe and have prevented the
weapons deal,” Kaldur silenced the conversations with his worried yet stern tone. “However,
our priority is Nightwing. Deathstroke knows him well and with... with Robin’s passing I fear
Deathstroke may use that to try and take advantage of Nightwing in order to get inside his
head.”

The other heroes nodded in acknowledgement as they followed their leader to the hanger
where the alien craft waited for departure.

“M’gann ETA to Nightwing’s approximate location,” Kaldur questioned as he took his seat,
the others following suite with M’gann at the helm.

“At top speed we should arrive within the hour,” M’gann answered wasting not another
moment as she began piloting the craft, the hanger doors already open for their departure.
Silence cascaded over the Bioship as it flew at top speed to get to the blue bird’s location.
They should be using this time to configure a plan of operation but knowing their little
brother was going against the devil alone they were all too caught up with their worry for him
to try.

Logically they know he is somewhat safe against the mercenary and the worst that will
happen is injuries from fighting. However, they couldn’t help but worry of Slade changing
things by either killing Nightwing for refusing him or forcing him back under him. It was
unlikely given how determined the mercenary was to make Dick go back to him on his own,
but they couldn’t help the fear that lingered with the question of, what if?

About halfway into their journey Kaldur finally broke the silence knowing that a plan needed
to be formulated especially with Deathstroke being involved.

“We need a plan, one that won’t put Nightwing in anymore danger than he may already be
in,” the Atlantean started drawing the attention of the other heroes.

“If Deathstroke is there we can’t fight him,” Barbara stated though it was clear she did not
agree with that.

“Agreed any attempts to do so will put Nightwing further in harm's way, I know none of us
agree with it, but we have no choice but to let Nightwing fight Deathstroke alone,” Kaldur
responded his dislike at the idea clear with the tone of his voice.

“If he’s already engaged with Deathstroke we’re probably best to handle the shipment that
way we won’t be directly engaging Slade and he hopefully it will stop him from hurting Dick
more,” Artemis suggested seeing that as the only thing they might be able to do without
making things worse for their teammate. “We’ll be going in partially blind without
Nightwing’s intel that he got last night but I don’t see another option for us without putting
him in more danger.”

Everyone nodded in agreement to the archer's suggestion knowing she was right that it would
be the only option they would have to help without directly engaging the mercenary. It would
have been likely that would have been what occurred had Nightwing listened and not gone
off alone, the only difference now is they were going in with less intel than they would have
had Dick come to them first.

“Can we all be in agreement that after the mission we’re having a serious talk with
Nightwing and we’re not letting him get out of it this time,” Barbara said because she needed
her best friend to know how much he’s cared for, so he’d stop being such a self-sacrificing
martyr all the time.

Everyone simultaneously said “agreed” before the alien craft fell in silence was again as they
continued to near Blüdhaven.
 The Cavalry Has Arrived

Blüdhaven, May 24 th , 8:32PM

“Looks like the cavalry has arrived but we have unfinished business to take care of.”

His bruising grip still in place around the struggling heroes arm Deathstroke forced the teen
back to the centre of the roof to continue their battle. He didn’t care if the kid was beginning
to tire, he wasn’t done with him just yet.

Nightwing allowed himself to be dragged back across the rooftop as it kept Deathstroke’s
attention on him and not on the others who were no doubt going to proceed with the mission.
He felt bad for not showing up to pass the additional intel he gathered last night but then
again, he hadn’t found much before Slade appeared and it wouldn’t have made much of a
difference.

Slade finally released his hold on the boy once they were back in the centre of the roof,
gesturing for him to make the first move once again.

“What is this?” Dick questioned trying to keep his nerves at bay as they began to increase
knowing his friends were around and therefore could be hurt by the mercenary. “You don’t
usually go about things this way...”

“You’re unfocused, I’m merely directing it as promised. I told you, you needed an outlet little
bird, and I am giving it to you. When I offered to provide that to you, there was hesitation,
you considered it and without realising you are accepting it,” Slade cut in half answering the
teen leaving out his interference with the bat.

Dick resisted the urge to snap back at Slade knowing that was most likely what he wanted.
Instead he readied back into a fighting stance ignoring how his muscles were starting to ache
from the exertion. The pain was barely there, he could continue on as long as he needs to, his
team were counting on him to remain a distraction for Deathstroke so they could disband the
smugglers down below.

When the Bioship had passed over the warehouses surrounding the docks, M’gann was able
to detect Nightwing’s mind easing the tension among the heroes. However, when they caught
sight of him, they all froze seeing him almost topple over the edge of the roof, something he
would have done had Deathstroke not pulled him back away from the edge.

The alien craft landed a few rooftops away, on the warehouse where the shipment of weapons
was supposed to be stored. They already they knew they hit the money with Slade being
around, but the further confirmation came when they saw the gunrunners through the
skylight. They also spotted the dozens of crates marked with ammunition and explosive
warnings; the shipment was larger than expected but they’d still be able to manage easily.

‘Link established everyone online’ - M’gann

‘Yes’ - Others (excluding Dick)

‘M’gann and Batgirl enter first to scout ahead, we need an approximate of how many
individuals are inside’ - Kaldur

As the two red heads stealthily moved further into the warehouse as per the leader’s
instruction the remaining heroes couldn’t help but glance towards the roof where they knew
their little brother was engaged in battle with Deathstroke. Seeing him almost fall had made
them want to be at his side assisting him but doing so would only worsen Slade’s attacks.

‘The shipment is even larger than we anticipated, and it seems there’s also some
experimental weaponry here as well. There’s four truck loads full of stock and roughly
two dozen armed assailants, pretty sure these are just the sellers, and the buyers are yet
to arrive’ - Barbara

‘There’s an office in the back left corner, the person inside appears to be the leader of
this group, he’s on the phone which by the sounds of it could be the buyers and it
doesn’t sound good’ - M’gann

‘What’s the play move in now or wait for the buyers to take them all down in one
sweep?’ Artemis

‘Move in but stay sharp, if there has been a disagreement of some sorts then the buyers
may attack when they arrive’ - Kaldur

They moved in cautiously dropping in through the open skylight similar to how Batgirl had
moments earlier. They rendezvoused with both females already inside using the unloaded
crates as cover to conceal themselves.

‘Most of the guys are unloading from the first truck on the far right there are a few
others stationed by the rear of the other three trucks guarding them – Barbara

‘Superboy, Batgirl, M’gann take the larger group Artemis and I will take out the
guards’ - Kaldur

The heroes once again separated into their assigned teams edging closer to their targets.

Batgirl released multiple smoke bombs into the larger crowd of smugglers and as soon as
they went off the group moved into attack. They overpowered the gun runners easily with the
element of surprise and cover of the smoke, taking each thug down quickly.

Aqualad and Artemis were also faring relatively easy against the guards who were not putting
up much of a fight against the teen heroes.

The fight was not silent as the smugglers began shouting and firing their weapons drawing
the attention of the presumed ringleader in the office of the warehouse. The commotion was
making him panic as the anonymous caller had warned him of an incoming attack.

“Listen I don’t know who you are,” the leader began trying to keep the panic out of his voice.
“Know you don’t but our employer has wanted you and you lackeys dealt with for some time,
we are merely using you to also terminate some other pests,” the voice on the phone spoke.
“You can try to run, but if you do your death will be a lot more painful than it need be.”

“Whatever you’re being paid I’ll double it and throw in the shipment as well,” the leader tried
but the caller paid no interest hanging up without another word.

Beyond the warehouse Nightwing was now struggling to keep up with Deathstroke’s attacks
as the mercenary was going full force having now drawn one of his swords. The vigilante had
tried to encounter with his escrima but Slade swiftly countered the attack causing the teen to
lose his weapon. He didn’t give up however determined to continue fighting.

Weapon-less against the armed mercenary Nightwing had acquired a few minor injuries but
he didn’t let them deter him. He had pushed on in battles with worse, he’d fought against
Slade with worse in the past.

He was breathing heavy as he dodged the blade once again rolling out of the way in the nick
of time, leaping back up to full height to counter. He landed the hit, but it did little to affect
Deathstroke as he swung at him once more, fist connect with his ribs knocking the wind from
him.

“I’m surprised kid didn’t think you’d last this long,” Slade snarked moving back to let the kid
recompose.

“T-Then you don’t know me as well as you think,” Dick wheezed slightly trying to regulate
his breathing. “I don’t give up, you can knock me around all you want, I’m not giving up
anytime soon.”

As Nightwing readied himself once more, he leapt back when the Deathstroke threw
something towards him.

“I wouldn’t be so sure of that,” Slade gestured to what he had thrown which Dick noticed to
be a phone with a video playing on screen. “The footage is live. You can either stay and fight
or go warn your friends, the choice is yours.”

The video shown was of what appeared to be a bomb a countdown displayed showing just
over ten minutes.

“Try and stop me and let them go out the same way as your replacement or...” Slade didn’t
get to finish his sentence as the teen turned towards the warehouse and ran. “Predictable,”
Slade chuckled activating the commlink in his helmet. “The little bird did as predict, when I
give the signal blow the place.”

Dick really regretted not having a comm on him right now, his friends were in unknowing
danger, and he couldn’t warn them. He tried calling out to M’gann hoping she’d sense his
mind touch but with the battle they were clearly engaged in from the sounds coming from the
warehouse she was likely too distracted to feel him.
He had to hurry; Conner would survive the blast but the others... Don’t think of that
possibility just get there, get them out.

Then there were the civilians, they may be criminals, but they don’t deserve to die, they’d
have to try and evacuate them out of the building as well.

He picked up speed ignoring how his body protested at the movements, people's lives were at
stake, he couldn’t afford to be sore.

He jumped in through the same skylight the other had heroes had used previously, taking
down the last smuggler as he landed on him just as he went to attack M’gann.

“M’gann everyone needs to get out there’s a bomb set to go off any minute,” Nightwing
warned as soon as the Martian noticed his arrival.

M’gann nodded her eyes glowing green momentarily as she informed the others and
connected the ebony to the mind-link.

‘Nightwing are you alright?’ - Kaldur

‘Fine but we need to get ourselves and everyone in here out, Deathstroke planted a
bomb, and I don’t know how long we’ve got left before it goes off’ - Dick

‘Superboy get the doors open, the rest of us get the civilians out and to a safe distance’ -
Kaldur

Superboy was quick to force the large door of the warehouse open wide enough to be able to
move out of the building and was quickly helping the others carry the unconscious and
restrained criminals out to a safe distance.

They were doing a final sweep to ensure they had safely evacuated all the civilians when
Barbara’s voice sounded in the mind-link.

‘Has anyone checked the back office for the guy who was in there’ - Barbara

‘He’s still in there’ - Connor

‘I’m closest the rest of you get out if there’s no one else this thing could go off any
second’ - Dick

‘Nightwing get out before the place blows, I can take the blast’ - Connor

Dick didn’t listen continuing towards the office for the civilian remaining on guard as the
person could attack seeing him as a threat.

Everyone else got out, keeping clear of the building while Superboy went after Nightwing.
They waited in suspense not daring communicate through the mind-link.

M’gann stiffened as she sensed pain but before anything else could be done the building
exploded with both Superboy and Nightwing still inside.
‘DICK!’ -Barbara

Batgirl’s emotional pain echoed through the mind-link as they felt their younger brother’s
touch fade.
 Too Close To Home
Chapter Notes

This chapter was supposed to be up a lot sooner but because I'm still using a dodgy
laptop that has a habit of crashing I ended up having to keep redoing parts. I have
ordered a new laptop which has been delivered to my non-uni address and I will be
picking it up August 1st so hopefully no more problems after then

Blüdhaven, May 24 th , 9:18PM

Deathstroke watched as the warehouse went up in smoke killing his target and trapping his
apprentice and Kryptonian in the fiery wreck. The explosion could have very well killed the
little bird which is why the countdown was fake and the bomb was remotely triggered. Had
the clone not been present the explosion would never have been triggered.

The warehouse explosion was set to hit the bat, the second Robin was killed in a similar
fashion and it almost happening to the first so soon after... it was bound to cause further strain
in Grayson and Wayne’s relationship. That strain will play on the little bird’s mind pushing
him further away from his father and closer to Deathstroke.

Inside the wreckage Superboy was crouched over Nightwing shielding the unconscious hero
from the blaze around them.

He’d heard the charge set just before the blast followed and managed to tackle the younger
hero covering him before the building shook as the explosion went off. With his hastiness
Nightwing didn’t come out completely unscathed having hit his head which was currently
dripping with crimson liquid from the wound.

Connor’s ears were ringing but other than that he was unharmed due to his invulnerability
which is why he had tried to get the younger hero to leave before the blast was set.

Through the ringing he could make out a voice, but it sounded far away but at the same time
it sounded as if it come from right next to him.

‘Connor?’ - M’gann

He quickly realised it was the Martian through the mind-link and responded.

‘M’gann’ - Connor

‘Is Dick with you?’ - Barbara

‘Y-Yeah, he hit his head when I tried shielding him from the blast and is unconscious,
but I think he’ll be okay’ - Connor

As if proving the clone’s statement, the younger hero groaned and shifted not realising where
he was, the only thing registering was heat and the throbbing in his head.

“Don’t move,” a stern voice instructed filtering through the fog of the teen’s brain. “I don’t
know how unstable the debris is which is why I haven’t moved anything yet.”

The words were muffled but Dick understood and refrianed from moving too much. He was
trying to remember what happened or where they were but the pounding of his head wasn’t
making that task easy. The last thing he fully remembers is fighting with Slade then...

The bomb...

Did the others get out? M’gann and Kaldur if they were trapped like him and Connor they’d
be dying because of the heat. What about Artemis and Barbara? Are any of them still alive?

Nightwing tried to move from underneath the Kryptonian but Connor was quick to halt his
movements as debris began shifting around them.

“T-The oth-others,” Dick’s voice was raspy from the thick smoke around them.

“Fine, they’re out calling for league reinforcements to get us out quicker,” Connor answered
hoping that would be enough to ease the vigilante so he wouldn’t try moving again.

The other heroes had moved further from the remains of the warehouse where their two
friends were trapped within the wreckage. They had already been at a safe distance when the
blast was set but the heat of the fire was draining to the Martian and Atlantean.

As soon as confirmation that both his teammates were alive was received Aqualad was
immediately contacting for league reinforcements to help maintain the blaze and free the two
heroes still trapped.

“Aqualad to Watchtower, we require immediate assistance in Blüdhaven.” he tapped onto the

comm in his ear waiting for the connection to be established.

A few seconds later the voice of Superman filtered in, “understood Aqualad assistance
enroute ETA to your location five minutes.”

It wasn’t even five minutes before the man of steel arrived on scene informing that Batman,
Flash and a few others were on their way to assist.

“What happened?” Clark asked using his x-ray vision to scourer the two heroes trapped
inside.

“Nightwing went on alone and when we arrived, he was fighting Deathstroke, as we are
unable to help him without putting his life at risk, we continued with the mission to
apprehend the weapon smugglers. We had almost finished when Nightwing appeared taking
out the last assailant informing us a bomb was within the building and we needed to
evacuate. He went back to get the least person from the office despite Superboy telling him to
fall back, the rest of us had just reached a safe distance when the building blew,” Kaldur
explained thoroughly.

“I see both their heat signatures, not sensing a third so I’m presuming whoever they were
trying to get out died when the bomb went off,” Clark responded continuing to use his
powers to work out the safest way to get the two younger heroes out without them being
crushed by debris. “There’s a single support beam stooping the debris from collapsing on
them, there’s a chance I could move it enough they should be able to crawl out. Is Nightwing
injured?”

“Superboy mentioned a head wound from the explosion, but we don’t know if he had
sustained any from his battle with Deathstroke,” Kaldur answered understanding the concern.

If Dick does have other injuries, it will be harder for him to make his way out of the space
Superman gives them when moving the beam. There’s also the risk of the longer the beam is
held up, the more likely it is debris will shift possibly crushing the young detective.

‘Superboy, Superman may have a way to free you both, but it will only be doable if the
only injury Nightwing has sustained is the head wound’ - Kaldur.

The clone gave his friend a once over checking for any other visible injuries knowing that
Dick often would hide them, so he doesn’t appear vulnerable. There were a few cuts but
nothing extreme considering they had just been blown up.

“How banged up were you before we were crushed by a building?” Connor asked tapping the
younger hero to get him to open his eyes. “Need a truthful answer as it could mean us getting
out sooner rather than later.”

“Noth-Nothing w-worse than usu-usual,” Dick coughed as the smoke was starting to get to
him. “Few... bruises, ‘ll be f’ine.”

Connor didn’t really trust the younger’s judgement knowing how often he played down
injuries but the longer they were stuck here the worse it would be for Dick. The smoke
inhalation was clearly affecting him, and the clone could tell the coughing was causing
discomfort most likely from bruised ribs as he used his x-ray vision and found no breaks.

‘There are no broken bones and most I can tell is a few minor cuts and he said he’ll be
fine not that that’s comforting coming from him, but he seems okay enough to me to try
Superman’s plan. The sooner he gets out the better the smokes starting to get to him’ -
Connor.

Kaldur turned to the man of steel nodding for him to proceed with his plan as he reiterated it
to Connor so he and Nightwing were ready to make a move as soon as there’s an opening.

Superman flew into position, the raging inferno not affecting him with his invulnerability. He
carefully grasped the beam, cautious not to move it yet waiting for the signal from Aqualad
that his nephew and brother were ready to move.
Connor was tapping Nightwing again trying to rouse him, knowing he was likely
experiencing the effects of a concussion, “you need to stay awake; Kal is going to make an
opening and I’m going to keep you covered to stop any loose debris, you need to be able to
pull yourself out.”

Nightwing lazily nodded to show he understood and forced his eyes back open once more,
thankful the lenses in his domino were preventing the smoke surrounding them irritating his
eyes. He still had tears forming because of the inhalation and coughing but it would be a lot
worse without the eye protection.

The sound of metal screeching cleared his head slightly as dust began to fall down along with
embers of the fire still raging. A few smaller pieces of rubble fell but so far everything else
seemed stable.

“Go I’ve got you covered,” Connor instructed nodding to the opening that had been made
from the beam being lifted.

Nightwing struggled slightly to get himself in a position he’d be able to crawl through the
gap as each movement sent throbbing pains racketing through his skull making him dizzy. He
was able to endure the pounding as he pushed himself closer to the gap but as he was about
pass through something else shifted. Had it not been for Superboy’s quick reflexes he would
have been impaled by the piece of rebar that fell.

“Th-thanks,” Dick wheezed as the alien shifted around him to move the metal that had closed
off their escape route.

“Don’t mention it,” Connor said as he forced the rebar aside offering his hand to the injured
hero to assist him.

The vigilante excepted the help accepting he wouldn’t be able to push through on his own
with how slow his reaction time was due to incessant throbbing in his head and the soreness
of his muscles from going toe-to-toe with Deathstroke for what felt like eternity, then being
caught in an explosion.

Superboy gripped him under his armpits and dragged him through the opening in what
appears to be where the office had been. It wasn’t a complete wreck or caught with the fire
surprisingly but there were clear signs of damage. The most damage being where one of the
walls caved in and underneath the rubble a hand was poking out free, most likely the civilian
he’d come to help Dick presumed.

“You good?” Connor asked standing to his full height after leaning the injured teen against
the opposite wall which was stable and undamaged.

Dick just nodded averting his gaze from the hand, another failure, another life added to his
list of deaths. If he hadn’t gone off alone and done as he was told that person might still be
alive. Then again him going off on his own may have saved his friends as they may not have
known about the bomb otherwise.
“’Wing. Nightwing. Dick!” Connor placed a hand on his shoulder breaking him from the
trance that took over.

Dick hummed in acknowledgement but was cut off as it erupted into a harsh coughing fit
from the smoke, he had previously been breathing in. He felt Connor steady him as the fit
passed, rubbing his back firmly to help get everything out.

Once the younger teen was back to raspy breaths Connor tried again, “they're going to put the
fire out first, oddly this room is reinforced which is why the explosion didn’t affect it as
much.” Noticing a slight shift of Dick’s gaze Connor turned to see what he was hyper-
fixating on, seeing it was part of the body of the civilian Dick came to help he moved
blocking it from the others sight. “You okay?”

“’m f’ne,” Dick’s speech was starting to slur clear indication the head wound was starting to
affect him more as the adrenaline was starting to wear off.

‘How long before back-up arrives cause I don’t know how long I’ll be able to keep
Nightwing awake for’ - Connor.

‘Fire fighters are arriving now, Batman and other leage members will be here in as little
as ten minutes for some’ - Kaldur

‘Try and keep him talking, so he doesn’t drift off’ - Barbara

‘Surprisingly that’s easier said than done, as soon as he got in here, he zoned out took a
minute for him to respond’ - Connor

The fire crew was directed by the heroes to start putting the fires out closer to the office area
first so they could get the trapped heroes free. There were three crews two took care of the
worse of the inferno while the other followed the hero's instruction to fend off the blaze
surrounding where their local hero and another super were buried.

As the blaze started to diminish in areas Batman arrived and seeing the mess of the wreckage
of what once was a warehouse, his mind instantly went to a similar situation from only a few
weeks ago. He knows why he was called to assist his son was the one caught in the blast;
another son almost lost...

Superman spotted the vigilante and was landing next to him within seconds to update him of
the situation.

“Superboy and Nightwing are both okay, they’re trapped in the reinforced office but alive...”

“He didn’t listen, I gave him a direct order,” Bruce growled his anger more so because of
how close to home this hit.

He’d already lost Jason and he almost lost Dick that same way. If it hadn’t of been for
Superboy he would most likely be burying another child... His first child.

“Aqualad mentioned Deathstroke so you can’t really be surprised with Nightwing going off
alone...” Clark tried to reason but it was futile, he knew this had hit his best friend closely. “I
know this isn’t easy but you’ve...”

“Don’t you dare tell me to stay calm down,” Bruce’s tone was a warning for the alien to back
down. “He could have died. He was idiotic and reckless. He has no regard for his safety.”

“He doesn’t when Deathstroke’s involved, all he cares about is protecting those he loves. I
know your worried but...” Clark tried once again but he could sense the detective's anger, no-
one was going to get through to him until he saw Dick was alive.

As other league members arrived to help with clean up and put out the rest of the fires, the
area where the two heroes were trapped was finally safe enough to try and free them.

Superman, along with Kaldur and M’gann began shifting through the debris to get to the
opening where the office was located. It took some time as they had to be slow and cautious
to ensure nothing, they moved caused anything else to collapse however they were making
progress.

Eventually enough rubble had been moved that the top of the gap which had been created to
grant the two heroes' access to their current position came into view.

M’gann used her telekinesis to move a few more pieces of rubble and debris making the
opening big enough for the dark knight to be able to climb through to assist the two younger
heroes.

As soon as he entered the office area his eyes went straight for where his son was sat leaning
against the only stable wall, a wound on the side of his head still oozing deep crimson.

“Nightwing status,” Batman instructed not paying attention to the clone knowing he would be
unharmed.

Dick barely lifted his head from its slumped position in response before dropping it back
down to his chest, exhaustion having caught up to him a while ago.

“Head wound is from after the bomb went off, as for any other injuries I’m not certain, but as
you can see, he’s out of it, presumably a concussion, he also breathed in a lot of smoke,”
Connor gave the run down seeing that in his state Dick was unable to do so.

Batman grunted a noise in response moving closer to his eldest son and picking him up with
ease. He gestured for the clone to climb out of the opening first, so he would be able to pass
Nightwing off to him before climbing out himself.

Connor followed the silent instruction carefully crawling out of the space and reaching back
into the hole to help get Nightwing out and EMT already on standby with oxygen ready for
the vigilante.

As soon as the teen was pulled free by the clone Superman was helping lie him on the gurney
so oxygen could be administered and the bleeding wound on his head could be treated.

Batman kept his gaze set firmly on his half-conscious boy who was clearly drifting noticeable
even with the mask covering his eyes. The over-protective father in him wanted to lecture the
teen for how reckless he’d been but it also wanted to hold him close as the reality seeped in at
how close this could have been. However, that need to comfort his son was outweighed by
the need to ensure he knows how dangerous this was, how he not only got himself nearly
killed but others as well. The reasonable part of his brain that currently had the voice of
Alfred was telling him that wouldn’t be fair to the teen as he would be projecting his fears of
what happened to Jason on him, but the over-protective mentor was telling him Dick needs
the reality check before he does get himself killed.
 Let Someone In

Happy Harbour, May 25 th , 6:09AM

The first thing that registered was the uncomfortable tickle of a nasal cannula which means
he’s either in the cave or Watchtower med bay. His memory was a little fuzzy, but he mostly
remembers what happened. He’d been fighting with Slade, then the bomb, being trapped with
Connor, the last thing he remembers was Bruce’s voice.

That had his eyes opening.

As soon as Dick’s eyes opened, he was squeezing them closed again as the bright lights
around him made his head hurt. Through closed lids he noticed the room being dimmed and
chanced to reopen his eyes only to wish he had stayed unconscious.

Bruce was stood at his side in full Batman gear including the cowl. If the cowl was on and
not removed, he was in trouble.

He really didn’t need lecturing right now; he knows he disobeyed orders can’t Bruce just give
him until his head stops pounding. Along with the throbbing headache, his muscles ached
immensely. His chest and throat were quite sore as well which most likely comes from
inhaling so much smoke.

“You’re lucky,” Batman stated not a hint of Bruce in his voice. “If Superboy hadn’t gone
back for you...”

“I’d be dead,” Dick finished cutting his father off to try and reason with him. “But if I hadn’t
of been fighting Slade beforehand everyone else would have been. I did what I thought was
right...”

“And it almost cost you your life!” Batman snapped he knows the fear is coming from how
similar this was to Jason, but he had to get through to the teen. “You were reckless and
idiotic. You disobeyed a direct order to not engage alone because of the risks and look what
happened. I’m disappointed in you.”

Even though it had been said with the Batman growl and not the voice of a father, that stung
worse than his injuries. He hated disappointing Bruce. The man had done so much for him
over the years and all Dick ever wanted to do was impress him, show him how thankful he is
for that. They may have their rough days and those days may be more frequent than others,
but Bruce was still his dad at the end of the day and hearing he’s disappointed hurts the teen
inside.

“Bruce I...”

“I don’t want any excuses, your suspended from the team until further notice, do I make
myself clear,” Batman interrupted his tone sterner than usual leaving no room for arguments.
“Bruce you can’t...”

“Enough! I gave you an order and you didn’t listen; do you not understand the consequences
of that, even after what happened to Jason!” Bruce argued knowing full well using his second
child’s death was completely out of order.

Dick averted his gaze from the dark knight, to hide the stinging of his eyes signifying tears.
Using Jason to argue against him was uncalled for. Yes, He does understand the risks of not
following orders but sometimes those chances need to be taken. If he had obeyed orders
others besides him could have been hurt or killed, to him it was a risk worth taking.

Part of him wanted to argue but in Bruce’s current mood there would be no point, he knew
that his father’s anger was coming from fear and so stayed silent.

“You are to remain here for monitoring for at least twenty-four hours and then you will return
to the manor where Alfred can keep watch over you,” Batman instructed leaving the teen
without another word or any sign of comfort.

As soon as the med-bay door closed Dick released the shuddering breath he hadn’t realised
he’d been holding.

He didn’t get much chance to think of everything his father had said as the med-bay doors
were opening once again as the senior members of the team and Barbara entered.

“How’s the head?” Barbara asked and Dick was able to tell from her tone that his answer
would affect the severity of the lecture he would be receiving from them.

“About as you’d expect,” he answered with a sigh keeping his gaze fixed firmly on a spot of
the blanket cover his legs.

“What were you thinking?” Connor asked both worry and annoyance in his tone. “I told you
to get out, you could have...”

“I know and I’m sorry,” Dick interrupted biting his bottom lip to stop the tears building in his
eyes. “I know you could have taken it, but I wasn’t thinking straight, I... All that was going
through my head was...”

Seeing her friend struggle Barbara moved closer to him, taking his hand from where it was
fisting the sheet. She gently squeezed to bring his attention to her as she could tell things
were getting to him.

“Breathe,” Barbara whispered to him petting his hand softly to try and ease the tension.
“We’re all okay, none of us a hurt, just breathe.”

Wally nodded to the others in the room gesturing they leave sensing that Dick was clearly
overwhelmed. He knows something must have happened with Batman as the elder practically
stormed passed them when he left and didn’t even stop to fill them in on how Dick was.
Whatever went on Dick clearly needs a minute alone or at least with less people around, the
others might not notice it as much, but he can tell his brother is on the brink of falling apart.
As he and the others made their way back out of the med bay he spared on last glance to
Barbara offering what he hoped was a reassuring smile. He wanted to stay and talk to Dick,
tell him how stupid his decision was but also to make sure he’s okay. For now, he’d have to
trust Barbara to watch over him as Dick didn’t need to be crowded by numerous people right
now.

Once alone Barbara sat on the edge of the cot her best friend was in keeping hold of his hand
knowing it would be offering a miniscule amount of comfort to him.

“We’re alone, anything you need to say or let out, you can do it, you know I’m not going to
judge you for anything,” Barbara said her voice laced with a warmth that Dick wanted to
wrap himself in after hearing the coldness from his father.

“He showed me the countdown and all I could think about was...” Dick started but quickly
faltered off when he felt the sadness leaking through his voice.

“Jason?” Barbara questioned already knowing the answer. “You know that wasn’t your fault,
right? There’s nothing you could have done to change the way things went...”

“If I had been here...”

“It might not have made a difference,” Barbara interjected her friend’s berating of himself. “I
know Wally already talked to you about this, but what Bruce did, blaming you for what
happened that was wrong and before you start you didn’t deserve it. You came home from a
long hard mission to the news that your brother was killed, and it happened weeks before you
came home, you had every right to be hurt, angry, upset, Bruce should have never kept that
from you. Jason’s your brother you deserved to know what happened...”

“Did I? After all I’m not Bruce’s kid, he may be my legal guardian for another couple months
but after that...” Dick began, seeing things this way made the emotional pain hurt less which
is why he was forcing the thoughts in his head.

“You don’t believe that you know you’re as much as his son as Jason, a piece of paper
doesn’t make a difference,” Barbara stopped already knowing Dick was using it as a coping
mechanism.

“Maybe not but he made it clear he doesn’t want me around,” the first tear was released and
more followed as Dick vented. “Probably better that way, I won’t have to burden him
anymore...”

“Why do you always do that?” Barbara asked annoyed but also hurt. “Every time something
goes wrong, or you’ve got your own problems you always say you’re a burden when you
aren’t. You might struggle to see your worth, but you are such a valued person to so many.
You do everything you can to help others sometimes going beyond expectations to ensure
everyone is looked out for, you encourage others to open up about their problems and yet
whenever it's you, you close off, shut down. You have people around you that are more than
willing to listen and help with whatever's going on so why won’t you let them.”
Dick stayed silent as the answer he wanted to give wouldn’t be one she would accept, if he
did give it, she’d call him a hypocrite. He didn’t have any other reason, the only thing he
could say was... Well, nothing he didn’t let people in as not to appear weak. He didn’t let
others help because he didn’t want to burden them. He didn’t want to appear vulnerable by
admitting his struggles. He was too similar to Batman with this tendency of not letting others
in and maybe that scared him.

He never wanted to be Batman, at one point maybe but now he knows what sacrifices need to
be made to wear the cowl. He might not want to be the Batman but traits that make him up
are ones he has. He hates to admit it, but he is more like Batman than he thought.

Or maybe...

No, he’s nothing like him, no matter what he says, he will never be like him.

Something soft and warm brushed against his cheek pulling him away from the spiral and
back to the present. It was Barbara wiping at the tears that were now falling freely without
permission.

“Sorry,” Dick muttered unconsciously leaning into her touch relishing in the gentle contact.

“It’s okay, I know it’s not easy for you to shut off years of unhealthy coping methods, but you
need to let someone in. It doesn’t have to be me or Wally, but you need to let someone into
that mess of a brain you have because otherwise you’re going to get yourself hurt,” Barbara
comforted continuing her soothing gestures.

Dick still stayed silent knowing if he did try to say anything now everything, he’s keeping it
might come out. The stuff with Bruce. Jason. Slade...

He still has to deal with him. Normally they’d fight and then he’d disappear again, but this
time Dick can’t help but feel something else is in the works. He’s learnt to listen to his gut
when it comes to the mercenary so knows that Deathstroke isn’t through just yet. Dick just
has to figure out what that is.

He has one problem however... Bruce. He’ll have to disobey him again, that normally
wouldn’t be an issue but after everything could he do it. Even if he didn’t think he could he
didn’t have a choice. If Slade wasn’t finished, then he had to endure the mercenary to prevent
him targeting those he cares about.
 His Fight

Happy Harbour, May 25 th , 10:58PM

After the others spoke to him earlier in the day, once he’d composed himself after Barbara’s
talk with him Dick had asked to be left alone. He didn’t want that but hearing them all voice
their worries and concerns was getting too much, it was overwhelming him.

He accepts what he did was dangerous and careless, but he’d do the same thing a hundred
times over if it would keep them safe. It’s why he’s chosen to follow his gut and disobey
another order from Bruce. He’ll face the consequences, he doesn’t care what they are, all he
cares about is protecting those he loves.

He had to wait until the IV that he was on was removed which wasn’t overly pleasant as he
stilled maintained a mild fear of needles from his days as Renegade. It had gotten better but
he liked to avoid them where possible, which in his line of work wasn’t easy. He also had to
wait late enough that everyone would have returned to their homes for the evening or their
rooms withing the cave so no one could stop him leaving.

There may be little point in running as everyone knows where he lives and a roughness of his
daily schedule, there's also the fact that Bruce has access to his tracker, but he can’t stay here
or go back to the manor.

When Bruce said he was to return to the manor Dick’s anxiety went up by about ten levels.
He wanted to go back because it was his childhood home, where he grew up after his parents,
its where he found a new family with Bruce and Alfred. However, after the fight with Bruce
when he first came back from mission... He wasn’t wanted there, if he went back, he’d only
be burdening the two men that gave him his second chance at family. He’d be creating more
work for Alfred, something he had always avoided since first moving into the manor. And
Bruce... Bruce didn’t want him there, he made that much clear when he said he never needed
a partner again and when he...

The bruise had faded a fair amount since but there was still some discolouration of the skin
where it was still healing. It didn’t hurt anymore to touch his face, which was good as he had
to apply concealer over it multiple times a day to hide it from everyone. Even with its faded
appearance he was still covering it with makeup, so he didn’t have to answer any questions
about it from both people in his civilian life and in the hero community.

There are a few who obviously know about it, Wally and Barbara for starters the latter having
discovered from a note Slade had left from when he patched his stab wound up. Even though
he didn’t say anything at the time, Dick knows Alfred found out before the note, he may not
remember much from his visit, but he remembers Alfred’s lingering stare on his face. His
surrogate alien uncle is also aware curtesy of Alfred as the elder man wanted to make sure
someone would be able to look out for him when around the heroes.

Then there was Slade, who had been using that fight and Jason’s death to try to get into his
head, partially succeeding. He hates that he had reacted to Deathstroke’s words and threats as
it only gave the mercenary more to antagonize him with. He tries to remain indifferent, but
Slade knows what gets to him and no matter how much Dick tries he can’t stop himself from
giving the man what he wants by reacting. He tries and when Slade isn’t getting the reaction,
he wants his comments turn to threats towards Dicks friends and family something that will
always rile him up. They may be mostly empty threats to keep him under some form of
control but Dick refuses to take the risk of Slade following up on those threats.

He had to track down the mercenary, see if his gut instinct was right that Slade wasn’t
through playing games yet. It could very well be Dick’s paranoia that he thinks Deathstroke
may still be lurking, but he’s come to trust his senses with things involving the mercenary.

Taking a deep breath to settle the pit in his stomach cause from the overwhelming anxiety
Dick eased himself out of the medical cot. He kept his movements slow as he was still feeling
dizzy from the head wound, he sustained and his whole body was stiff and aching.

He used the IV pole next to the cot to steady himself as he got his bearings pushing himself
into a standing position. He had to close his eyes as the movement made the room spin but
after a few deep breaths it subsided.

The first step almost had his legs buckling as they were a little shaky, but Dick was quick to
steady himself using the IV pole once more. He continued using it to support him as he half
crept half limped towards the med-bay doors, pausing when he reached the door to listen out
for anyone who may have been told to guard him.

It wouldn’t be surprising if someone was playing as his watchdog given this wouldn’t be the
first time he’s snuck out of the med-bay before being properly discharged. He’d done it a few
times in the past however usually it would be to go back to Gotham to fulfil his bedrest at
home where he could be comfortable. He had a dislike for hospital environments given how
often he had to visit them after his uncle became a permanent resident, that dislike increased
when Rick passed, and he discovered Slade had tainted that moment.

Hearing no-one around, Dick chanced peeking through the door and for a moment he was
stunned as no-one had been left to keep watch to make sure he doesn’t ‘escape’.

Releasing the IV pole Dick cautiously opened the door fully and began hobbling towards the
Zeta tube, keeping his movements slow and careful so he wouldn’t fall. His legs were still a
little shaky, but he trusted himself that he didn’t need the support anymore so long as he took
his time and didn’t rush.

Years of practice ensured that he remained silent as he moved despite his minor struggle with
maintaining his steadiness. Everyone would know where he vanished to, but he’d rather not
draw attention until after he leaves which is why he needed to be as quiet as possible.

Typing the co-ordinates for ‘Haven with ease, Dick cringed slightly as the teleportation
whirled to life hoping the noise wouldn’t draw any attention to him. A few seconds later and
he was being submerged in the yellow beam transported from the cave of Mount Justice back
to his city.

Blüdhaven, May 25 th , 11:21PM

“Recognised Nightwing B-01"

Dick released a sigh of relief when the Zeta didn’t announce anyone following however his
relief was short lived as he sensed someone around.

“You took longer than I expected,” Deathstroke appeared full armour from a dark corner
within the warehouse.

“How did you...” Dick began to question but went quiet as Slade approached him, removing
the helmet revealing the predatory gaze that would always send shivers up Dick’s spine.

“I have my ways little bird,” Slade smirked giving the teen a once over assessing his injuries.

Dick kept his fists balled up trying to minimise the tremble as the mercenary continued
staring at him. He hated that a look was enough to put him on edge as it made him look weak.

“W-what do you want?” Dick asked cursing himself for how his voice shook from nerves.
“We fought, why are you still here?”

“That was a practice, as I said you need someone to teach you how to control your emotions
when in battle, something I will gladly do,” Slade offered and from the teen’s delayed
response he could tell the boy was considering it.

“I don’t need anything from you,” Dick hissed trying to keep any fear out of his voice.
“You’re a killer, you tried to kill my family, you’ve had people I care about killed.”

“Your poor uncle was destined to die, my inference merely shortened his suffering, as for Mrs
North I don’t keep lose ends, she had to be terminated,” Slade began not missing the slight
flicker of rage and hurt in the little bird’s eyes. “As for your pathetic teammates, they were in
danger as they interfered with my business as you see it was never about the shipment, I was
contracted to take care of the ringleader and as a bonus his hired help. If any of your friends
died, they merely would have been collateral damage, but as you know they survived and
you, my apprentice were the only one harmed excluding Mr Simmons.”

Dick kept quiet even though the comment of being Slade’s made him want to snap back in
retaliation.

“Why are you here Richard, surely daddy-bats would want to keep you close after your little
accident, especially with how close to home it must hit for him,” Slade questioned his gaze
set firmly on the teen’s eyes in attempts to intimidate him, not that he needed to the kid was
scared even if he tried hiding it.

“He does,” Dick admitted trying to avoid the icy cold eye boring into him.

“Then why are you here Grayson,” Slade pushed when the teen became silent again.

“I-I...”
“Is it because you know he doesn’t want you around, that he doesn’t trust you to take care of
yourself, doesn’t trust that you won’t get yourself killed,” Slade began knowing he was
grating on the teen by how his fists clenched even more. “Was he disappointed in you? Angry
at your failure?”

Dick’s arm was shaking with how much he was restraining himself to not attack Slade
knowing the mercenary was just trying to get a reaction from him. He had to bite the inside
of his cheek to prevent any arguments coming out and kept his eyes closed so Slade wouldn’t
see the tears slowly building.

Everything Slade was saying was true and hearing it come from him hurt even if Dick
already felt that way.

“I can help you little bird, you know that, I can offer you guidance where your father has
failed and all I ask is a small favour in return,” Slade smirked as the teen’s shoulders
dropped, showing how much he was considering the offer.

“I won’t hurt anyone,” Dick muttered and Slade’s smirk deepened.

“You won’t have to, if you accept my offer to give you an outlet all you’ll need to do in
return is acquire something for me. I could do it myself but when I have access to someone
who will not be suspected I will use that asset,” Slade responded holding his hand out for the
teen. “Do we have a deal?”
 Someone Needs To Get Through To Him

Happy Harbour, June 6 th , 11:13AM

It had been almost two weeks since any of them last had a proper conversation with Dick, let
alone seen him. They knew he’d been suspended from the team but that didn’t mean he had
to avoid them like the plague. He’d been benched in the past and still made the effort to stop
by to check in, the fact that he hadn’t had everyone including the junior team members
concerned.

The only people who have seen him since he left are Wally and Barbara when they've shown
up at his apartment unannounced to check in with him. Each time one of them had visited
they’d find him in various states of injured, injuries that he wouldn’t sustain from routine
patrols. They had tried talking to him, but he’d just brush them off saying he was just going
through a rough patch because of everything going on in his head. Neither of them believed
him of course as they knew him to well and knew more was going on, but they didn’t voice
that to him.

Barbara had even tried talking to Batman to see if he had heard from Nightwing over couple
weeks since he’d left the med-bay, but the dark knight never took notice of conversations
involving the blue bird. She suspected that Dick’s premature departure of the med-bay may
have something to do with Bruce, but she couldn’t be certain as neither would talk to her
about the other.

The only thing Dick had said about his father was that he suspended him from the team and
ordered him to return to Wayne Manor. The latter answered the question as to why Dick most
likely left as he’s forced himself to believe he’s not wanted there. There’s also the clear
tension between him and Bruce which is probably another factor to why he’d want to avoid
the place, as he had been even before... Before the fight when Dick learned of Jason being
killed.

Apart from Wally and Barbara invading Dick’s apartment the only other contact anyone had
had with him is brief calls and text messages. When they tried to ask how things were he’d
always say the same thing being ‘fine’ or ‘I’ll manage’ and he’d never go further into it than
that. It was grating in a way as they all wanted to help him with whatever was going on, but
he’d shut himself off completely. Even more than he already had.

Kaldur was stood by the holo-computer looking over some files for an upcoming mission
when the Zeta blared to life announcing the arrival of the two red heads.

“Recognised Kid Flash B-03, Batgirl B-16"

Kaldur turned to face them as they approached knowing that they had decided to do a double
invasion of their friend's home before his afternoon classes at the police academy.

“He still isn’t saying anything, assuring he’s fine,” Wally started answering Kaldur’s unasked
question. “His bathroom however would say otherwise.”
The worry etched on the Atlantean’s face led Barbara to continue, “there was a fair number of
blood-soaked bandages, he was already in uniform when we got there so we couldn’t assess
his injuries but...”

The two red heads were able to tell straight away Dick was clearly in pain when they arrived
even if he tried to conceal it. They didn’t question him on it knowing they wouldn’t get a
truthful answer but did their investigations after he left for his classes. It had become
somewhat sort of a routine they’d show up just before he had to go out either to work or the
academy to check in and as soon as he left, they would search the place hoping to find
answers. He didn’t care that much about them staying at his place while he wasn’t there, to be
fair it seemed like he just didn’t care about anything except pushing through life right now.

Today had been the worst mess they’d found when tidying the place and looking for answers
in what Dick might be doing at night to warrant all his injuries. The first aid kit had been left
open on the bathroom counter completely disorganized, along with the suture kit that had
been discarded on the counter. The sink was filled with multiple crimson stained bandages
and there were bloodied handprints along the countertop and covering anything Dick had
touched when he patched himself up. The medicine cabinet had been left open and one of the
bottles of ibuprofen had been knocked out and emptied all over the bathroom counter and
floor. It took the two of them an hour to thoroughly clean just that one room alone making
sure there were no traces of the nights events to be seen.

It had shocked them to find that the Nightwing suit had not been damaged or stained crimson
like the bathroom when they came across it discarded on the bedroom floor having not been
put I away in the secret compartment at the back of the closet. Seeing that had only made
them worry more as it suggested that Dick was getting hurt as a civilian and not a vigilante
which was even more dangerous.

“He’s going to get himself killed if he keeps up with whatever he’s doing,” Wally stated his
irritation coming from concern for his brother. “He’s never been this bad before, he... We
need to get him to listen to reason before he gets himself killed.”

“Batman?” Kaldur glanced to Barbara with his suggestion as she was the one who currently
had the most contact with him.

“Bad idea,” Barbara said knowing how Dick would react if they got Bruce involved. “Things
between them aren’t good and I don’t think bringing Batman into this would benefit
Nightwing right now.”

“I don’t even think Alfred would get through to him with whatever is going on in his head,”
Wally admitted presuming that would be Kaldur’s next suggestion. “Honestly, I’m surprised
he hasn’t changed his locks so me and Barb can’t get in anymore.”

“He probably considered it then realised I’d just pick the lock which is why he hasn’t,”
Barbara responded her tone saying she believed this, and it wasn’t said as a joke to lighten
the mood. “There’s one person he might talk to but at the same time I don’t know if it's worth
getting someone else involved at risk of making him shut off even more.”
“Who did you have in mind?” Kaldur questioned out of curiosity even if they didn’t go down
this route.

“Superman, they’ve always been close and Nightwing does refer to him as his uncle. If he
won’t open up to us maybe he’ll open up to him, it might make him feel like less of a burden
if its Superman he’s talking to. He’s most likely trying to protect us from whatever's going on
in his head and with Batman and Alfred he won’t want to bother them because of...” Barbara
explained trailing off when it came to mention Jason’s death, a topic they all avoided as it
hurt too much to talk about.

“Superman is currently off-world, but I believe is set to return tomorrow afternoon,” Kaldur
stated agreeing with Barbara’s suggestion. “I could see if he is willing to talk once he
returns.”

“If we do get big blue involved then it needs to appear as a random check in, not something
orchestrated as an intervention cause that will make Nightwing close off,” Wally advised he
agreed that Clark may be able to talk to Dick in way he’ll open up a bit, but it had to be done
delicately as not to make the younger teen overwhelmed. “If he sees it as an intervention and
not a friendly catch up it might make him worse, so I suggest give it a few days until we tell
him to visit.”

The other two heroes agreed with the speedster’s suggestion not wanting to make matters
worse than they already were. They were all just hoping that Dick will speak to Clark or give
the alien something that could suggest what’s going on with him. Everyone was worried for
his safety and all they wanted to do was help him with whatever he has going on that’s
making him so secretive and nervous.
 On Edge

Blüdhaven, June 6 th , 6:28PM

After his academy classes today, Dick had a shift to cover at the gym for one of the
instructors who was sick however he was now regretting agreeing to take on the extra work
even if it was a fairly simple job. He was to teach a small group of children in the gymnastics
class, something he typically enjoyed doing but after last night he was begging for the day to
end.

Wally and Barbara had stopped by just before he left for the academy earlier which hadn’t
been ideal given last night's events and they no doubt would have a lot of questions the next
time they drop by.

Slade had reappeared last night, something he has kept doing since Dick walked away from
him when the mercenary tried to strike a deal between them. It seems that even though he
didn’t except Deathstroke wasn’t giving up on him and he was even more brutal than usual.

Dick hadn’t even been on patrol last night when Slade showed up, having had a shift change
at the cop bar and was working later than usual. He was just taking the trash out about to
leave when he heard the purposely loud footfalls behind him and if he didn’t have Slade’s
step pattern memorised, he would have presumed it was lowlifes trying to mug him. The
mercenary struck without warning starting the fight between the two of them. Dick held his
own for a bit but with Slade’s ruthlessness and without the protection suit gave him, he
sustained a lot more injuries than usual.

It was a blessing when the class ended, and the last student was picked up by their parents as
Dick was finally able to sit down to take some much-needed pain relief. He still had
equipment to clean and pack away but the little break was needed and none of the workers
questioned him as usually he’d pack up straight away, but they had noticed he’d been a little
off lately.

One of his co-workers had questioned if he was doing okay having walked in on him
reapplying concealer to some bruising on his neck where Slade had had him in a chokehold
the day before. He told them he was fine, and it happened at his other job when trying to
break up a fight but judging from the expression he knew they hadn’t believed him.

The owner was in today, so Dick hadn’t been surprised when his break was interrupted by
them calling him into the office for a chat. He had expected something like this to happen
after his late-night visit considering he was still there when the morning staff arrived to open
up for the day.

The owner, David Thompson, greeted him with a warm smile that also held a slight amount
of sympathy when he entered the office.

“Take a seat Grayson,” David said gesturing to the seat across from him.
As Dick took the offered chair, he had to hold back the sigh of anxiety that threatened to
escape. He doesn’t know why he suddenly on edge, he’s never felt this way around his boss
despite how David looks as if he could break him in two. The man was a teddy bear at heart,
not a bad bone in his body as fair as Dick can tell, always welcoming of everyone who enters
the gym. He has even been known to turn a blind eye to some of the parents when they fall
behind on payments for classes and always offers them support where possible.

“Relax kid, you’re not in any trouble or anything just want to make sure you’re doing alright,
you seem a little distracted lately,” David reassured easing the teen’s nerves ever so slightly.

“Sorry, I-I... There’s just some stuff going on in my personal life right now that’s all, I’ll try
and do better,” Dick replied rather rushed.

“Hey, don’t worry about it, like I said you’re not in any trouble, I just wanted to make sure
you we’re doing alright and if there’s anything I can do to help, I’m more than happy to,”
David said his voice now softer to try and further ease the teen. “Remember kid, here we look
out for each other, we’re a family so anything you need to talk about we’ll listen.”

“Right,” Dick sighed swallowing the lump in his throat from how on edge he was. “I...
Thanks Mr Thompson, I’ll keep that in mind.”

“Make sure you do,” David responded as Dick stood to make his leave. “And Dick will you
drop the Mr Thompson already, it’s so formal.”

“Sorry... David, I’ll see you Wednesday,” Dick replied forcing a small smile on his face to
appear more himself.

David nodded waving the boy off as he exited the office still concerned for him but unless the
kid wanted to talk, he couldn’t force him into anything.

Exiting the office Dick rolled his shoulders to rid the unwarranted tension that had been
building. He knew nothing bad would come of him being called to speak to David so why
had he been so worried.

As he was about to get back to work, he noticed an unwanted visitor loitering in the reception
area, from the look he was given they also wanted a chat. Dick ignored the older man for now
in favour of finishing up his work for the day. The whole time he knew eyes were on him
waiting expectantly but he wasn’t going to give in so easily, he wasn’t going to show how on
edge he was.

His watcher didn’t appear bothered by his delay, so Dick purposely took longer than
necessary to wipe down and clean all the equipment that had been used for the class he
taught. He even took his time in the staff locker room, cleaning up a bit, changing the
dressings on his wounds and getting changed out of his work out gear into fresh clothes. He
had been half tempted to leave out of the back entrance and ignore his stalker completely but
that would most likely cause him more problems in the long run.

“You took your time,” Wintergreen stated displeased with being made to wait so long when
the teen finally emerged from the locker room, “Mr Wilson would like a word with you.”
“Not interested,” Dick muttered brushing past the man only to be stopped by a firm grip on
his arm.

“You will be,” Wintergreen whispered so his words were only audible to the two of them.
“One of your friends has got themself into trouble and the only way you can help them is by
speaking to Mr Wilson.”

“If this is an attempt at a threat...” Dick started anger in his tone.

“I assure you this is no threat,” Wintergreen interrupted pulling his phone from his pocket
and handing it to the teen once he opened it to display his proof. “As you can see your archer
friend is in need of some assistance.”

Dick jerked his arm free and pushed the phone back into the other man’s hand as he walked
away, restraining himself from blowing up in front of anyone. His fists were clenched as he
tried to not show any emotion despite having just saw the state on of his oldest friend’s was
in.

The video shown appeared to be from a security camera in a cell of some sort where Red
Arrow was being held captive. There was obvious injuries Dick was able to make out on the
video some indicating that his brother may have been tortured. The archer was chained and
looked a mess compared to six months ago when Dick last saw him. His hair was longer, and
he was a lot thinner, he also had a scruffy beard. Then there was the various injuries Dick
could see from cuts and bruises to what looked like electrical burns, it was also clear the
archer was exhausted from his slumped position where he was leaning against the wall.

Once outside the gym he still kept his composure as he walked towards the black SUV which
he knew would be the vehicle driven by Wintergreen. It was taking everything in him not to
react to the video footage not wanting to draw any attention from passers-by as it would raise
questions that he didn’t need.

As soon as the car unlocked, he was getting into the passenger seat followed by the elder man
who occupied the driver’s side. He kept his gaze set ahead, so he could track the movements
to know where exactly he was being taken.

Neither of them spoke during the journey across the city, despite Dick wanting to ask
questions as to what was going on. He didn’t knowing that Wintergreen wouldn’t answer him
in order to maintain a level of control and keep him on edge which is why he kept quiet.

It was roughly an hour before the car was pulling up outside a fancy looking hotel which
surprised Dick thinking Slade would have had a more permanent residence within the city.
He knows the mercenary has safehouses within Gotham having been to one when the man
had him taken from school a few days after Rick passed, so presumed the same would be for
‘Haven.

He didn’t miss the flash of a handgun from Wintergreen, the man’s way of warning him what
will happen if he does anything stupid before they got out of the vehicle.
He followed Wintergreen to the elevator, making sure to take in his surroundings properly in
case he needs to make a quick getaway.

The elevator opened to the penthouse suite and Slade was stood waiting for his arrival the
smirk Dick had grown to hate in place.

“Glad to see you accepted my invitation little bird.”

 Why Help Me?

Blüdhaven, June 6 th , 8:38PM

Before Dick had chance to say anything Slade was walking further into the penthouse
towards the study as if this was a business meeting of some sort and not about his friend's life
being in danger.

When Slade took his seat, he looked at the teen expectantly waiting for him to do the same.
He had to supress the amusement when the boy didn’t as it reminded him of how much
control he once had over the kid when the little bird would wait for his permission to do
things.

“Sit down Grayson, we don’t have all day,” Slade instructed keeping his smirk minimal when
the teen hesitated.

Dick stayed standing for another moment debating whether or not being here was a good
idea. He could have gone to the team to tell them what he knew... Then again all he knew was
Red Arrow had been captured. He didn’t know anything else that would allow them to help.
He didn’t know who had captured the archer or where he was. He could have gone to Oliver
as he had had occasional contact or... or he could have tried tracking down Chesire as she had
been known to have helping Red Arrow in his search for the original Roy Harper.

Knowing Deathstroke wouldn’t reveal anything until he complied with the instruction Dick
took the offered seat keeping his eyes on both men in the room ready to fight back if
necessary.

“Good boy,” Slade praised knowing how much the kid hated it as it resurfaced memories
he’d rather forget. “I hope last night wasn’t too much for you after all you need to be ready to
help the clone friend of yours.”

“What do you want?” Dick asked trying to main a neutral tone to not show fear or anger.
“You wouldn’t do anything like this unless you had something to gain, so what is it you gain
from telling me about Red Arrow?”

He shouldn’t be here. Deathstroke no doubt will try and play mind games with him,
something to get in his head. Dick isn’t sure he’ll be able to ignore him after the past few
weeks of constant goading and never-ending anxiety from waiting for an inevitable attack.
He was mentally exhausted. He was slowly burning out and Slade’s continuous appearances
were not making things any easier. He knows with how he’s been going as of late he’s
running himself into the ground, but he can't stop because that leaves him with the thoughts
in his head he’d rather ignore.

He hadn’t properly yet grieved Jason as he was doing everything possible to keep himself
busy whether it be with the academy, work or leaping over roof tops as Nightwing.
Deathstroke being around also distracted him, until the mercenary would use his brother’s
death to play mind games. He did the same regarding his distant relationship with Bruce,
something else Dick tried not to think about. He knows why his father said what he did after
the warehouse explosion but... It cut deep, it hurt worse than any injury he’d ever sustained.
It was all said out of fear, Dick knows this but with their previous fight, it was too much, and
he had to get away.

Being suspended hadn’t helped, as it took away one of the things he’d use as a distraction. He
was a bit like Bruce in that sense when he had a problem, he didn’t face it and focused his
attention on something else keeping it bottled in. The difference between him and Bruce with
that is, his father takes his frustrations out on criminals whereas Dick has never found that to
ease anything. Maybe it’s because he holds back having seen on many occasions how close
you can come to killing a person if you take your anger out on them. It had only happened to
him the one time, the night after learning about Jason, when Bruce....

“I suppose you will remember the favour I asked of you?” Slade questioned condescendingly
bringing the teen out of whatever thoughts he had been trapped in.

“You asked for it if I accepted your offer, which I didn’t,” Dick responded a hint of venom in
his final words.

“No, you didn’t however if you are to be of any help to the archer than I suggest you
rethink...”

Dick stood to leave; he didn’t need Deathstroke for him to be able to find Red Arrow he
could do the task himself without having to stoop to the level of assisting Slade to help his
friend. He was stopped from going anywhere when the safety of a gun was clicked off and
the metal brushed against the side of his head.

“Sit down Grayson,” Slade instructed not appreciating how the little bird thinks he can just
walk out on him.

“You’re not going to let him shoot me,” Dick argued gesturing to Wintergreen. “And if you
are then get it over and done with because I refuse to help you. I’m not your apprentice
anymore Slade, you don’t control me any...”

Dick should have expected the grab. Slade had lunged forward, gripping the collar of his shirt
with one hand and taking the gun from Wintergreen with the other pushing the weapon under
his chin. Dick had to arch his neck from the pressure of the gun, but he refused to show any
other signs of discomfort or fear.

“I see I'm just wasting my time with you,” Slade whispered before the sound of the trigger
being pulled filled the room.

Dick kept his eyes open, if Slade was going to kill him, he wouldn’t show how terrified he
was by closing them.

Death however never came, as the gun clicked again signifying an empty cartridge.

Dick didn’t get a full chance to register the sound before the gun was slammed on the desk
and Slade’s hand wrapped around his throat. Still, he refused to fight back despite how his
much conscience was telling him to, he ignored the reflexive instinct to claw at the hand and
instead stayed unmoving.

“I could wring your neck like the little bird you are right now, and no-one would know
because you are so adamant at pushing them all away. How long before they notice you
gone? Would they even care, after all the trouble you cause for them?” Slade increased the
pressure on the teen’s throat even more and only released him when his head began to lol
indicating he was losing consciousness.

Dick was thrown back into the chair he was previously in, resisting the urge to cough as he
slowly took back in much needed air. He scowled at the mercenary however it came off wea
as he tried to get oxygen into his burning lungs. There was a pain in his chest as he caught his
breath, a pain which Dick brushed off as not really being there as it was around the brand scar
melted over his heart.

“I have been patient with you little bird, I have been far too lenient,” Slade began pacing
around the desk to stand before the boy and gripping the block locks tightly to show he was
the one in control. “Do you need a reminder of the consequences of trying my patience or is
the memory of what happened to daddy dearest enough to remind you.”

Dick unwillingly closed his eyes at that comment as the memories of the night resurfaced.
Watching as Deathstroke buried the sword into Bruce’s abdomen even when he followed
instructions. The way he complied calling Slade ‘Master’ but the mercenary still raised a gun
towards his father. How the gun shot rang out and how he was too terrified to confirm his
father was dead.

His eyes opened again as Slade tugged on his hair more forcefully, Dick biting his tongue to
supress the hiss of pain that threatened to escape.

“Are you going to allow the archer to be your next lesson?” Slade questioned keeping his
grip firm to prevent the teen from moving or averting his gaze.

It wasn’t a question. Dick didn’t have a choice. Clone or not Red Arrow was still his friend,
the only version of Roy Harper he knew. He couldn’t let his brother suffer like that even if
helping him will mean sacrificing himself. He will do anything if it means protecting those he
cares about even if it means putting his own life at risk.

He promised himself he’d never go back to Slade willingly but what choice did he have, Red
Arrow will die if he doesn’t. To save his friend he has to make a deal with the devil, a deal he
will no doubt regret. However, Roy needs him, and Slade’s made it clear if Dick doesn’t d as
he says then, Roy is as good as dead.

While Slade’s threats are usally empty and never followed up on (mainly because Dick play’s
his game) the teen can’t risk the mercenary actually having the means to have his friend
killed. Deathstroke obviously knows where Roy is being held as he wouldn’t share the
information otherwise.

Swallowing past the lump in his throat Dick asked, ” what do you want me to do?"
Slade released his grip on the teen once more supressing his smirk at the boy now complying
with him as he knew he would. He would have cracked the kid eventually but the archer
getting himself caught by a group of mercenaries in search of his original counterpart gave
him chance to put more pressure on the kid. Deathstroke knew the video he gathered on his
last job involving the group holding the clone would have the bird breaking even if it did take
him pushing at a few buttons before he relented.

“You will merely be gathering some information for me from daddy’s computer, nothing that
will be of risk to the caped community your so fond of,” Slade began standing behind the
teen lacing his hands on the boy’s shoulders holding off on using the forceful grip he usually
would. “The information you gather will actually benefit you in your rescue attempt of the
clone.”

“What do you need?” Dick asked cursing how his voice shook more now because Slade’s
hands were on his shoulders.

“The group that is holding your friend are competition of mine and have had their business
interfered with on a few occasions by the bat. I merely want whatever information daddy
dearest has on them. I have done my own work looking into them however the person who
leads them is still a mystery. I could find out myself, but rumour has it that daddy has
suspicions of who runs the group that is now our mutual interest,” Slade explained not
missing the slight nervous shiver of the teen.

“How am I supposed to get this information when he kicked me out?” Dick questioned
already knowing he could get the information required but he could complete the task, but he
was just stalling to think over how he could do so without Bruce finding out.

“You’re a smart boy and it won’t be the first time you’ve bypassed daddy-bats' security,”
Slade responded squeezing the teen’s shoulders to emphasise what he was referring to.

Dick didn’t need a reminder of that night either. Ever since he always startled whenever
someone would try coaxing him from a nightmare afraid it would be Slade again. It wasn’t as
bad now as it was back then but that’s more to do with the fact, he’s usually alone during
those times now. He’ll never forgive himself for doing that not only had it put him in danger
but if Alfred hadn’t been in the cave, he could have been...

Dick didn’t get to finish the thought as he felt a pinch and scratch on the side of his neck
before everything started becoming fuzzy. As everything faded, he was panicking because
Slade had him and what if he put him through the sense deprivation torture before letting him
go. He couldn’t fall asleep, he’d be put there, he never wanted to go back there.

Slade released an amused chuckle when Dick’s eyes finally rolled back, and he slumped in
the chair losing the battle against the sedative.

“After all this time and he’s still scared of that little punishment,” Slade smirked nodding to
Wintergreen to ready the car so they could drop the boy off.
 Returning Home
Chapter Notes

Apologies for lack of update yesterday kept running into tech issues, seriously can't wait
to get my new laptop at the end of the month.

Also finally got my hands on Young Justice Targets after waiting almost 8 months for it
as I bought it as the graphic novel rather than individual comics and it only makes me
want a season five even more.

Gotham City, June 7 th , 1:13AM

Batman was just wrapping up business with some thugs who had decided to break into a
liquor store when he received a call from Alfred telling him to return home as soon as
possible. The man had sounded flustered which was unusual for Alfred, but he wouldn’t say
what had troubled him.

Bruce had arrived back at the Bat-Cave not long after with Alfred stood waiting for him, a
weary look gracing his face when the Bat-Mobile pulled to a stop.

Exiting the vehicle Bruce removed the cowl immediately and approached his surrogate
father, giving a once over to check for visual signs of what is causing the butler’s distress.

“I advise you change quickly sir,” Alfred stated still not saying the reason why he had called
for the billionaire's quick return.

He had been heading to his room for the night knowing that Bruce usually wasn’t back until
dawn, a routine that had started after Master Jason’s death. He was halted by the telephone
ringing and while he could have ignored it given the late hour, but he didn’t as the thought
that it could be Richard crossed his mind.

He hadn’t heard much from the teen since dropping in at his apartment a few weeks ago and
was disappointed to learn the boy took off from the med bay of Mount Justice when he was
set to return to the manor. Miss Gordon had been informing him of what she knew was going
on with his grandson and he had intended to make another stop by. After what he had learnt
from Miss Gordon regarding the various injuries Richard would try to hide, he could not
ignore the ringing phone for fear that the teen had gotten himself into a situation.

The teen had definitely got himself in trouble as the voice that sounded from the phone was
not that of Richard but of a man that had cause his boy so much hurt over the past few years.
“I advise you or Wayne check the gates of the strong hold, there is a package awaiting you
both.”

Nothing more was said and if it was Alfred didn’t hear it as he dropped the phone to rush
down to the cave to check the security cameras of the manor.

Pulling up the live footage of the front gate, he saw Richard lay on the ground unmoving and
his old heart almost broke because the boy... It wasn’t until he saw the teen’s vitals on the
other monitor that his racing heart slowed, as the monitor displayed a heartrate.

He made the call to Batman instantly and was then hastily making his way to the front gates
to bring the teen inside. He took his shotgun with him as a precaution, but it was unneeded,
no-one was around and if they were they were well hidden. Even Ace didn’t make a sound to
alert of any possible nearby threats, he only whined when there was no response from the
teen.

He had only just arrived back at the cave after getting Richard situated in the lounge with Ace
watching over him when the sound of the Bat-Mobile racing through the tunnel echoed
within the caverns.

Really, he should have revealed the situation as soon as Bruce approached him, but he didn’t
want Richard waking up to an interrogating Batman. While the teen and father’s relationship
has not been as close recently Alfred would rather avoid the tension of Batman being their
rather than the father the boy needs.

“What’s going on?” Bruce asked reemerging from the changing room within the cave. A hint
of annoyance in his tone for being left unanswered.

Alfred stayed silent for a moment longer as he directed the billionaire towards the elevator so
they could get to Richard before he awoke.

It was only as the elevator door opened did Alfred break the silence, “I don’t know the extent
of what has occurred, but you are to leave any disapproval down here, if that is too difficult
for you then you are not permitted to see him.”

Bruce didn’t need clarification on who ‘him’ was there was only one person it could be as
there was only one other person alive Alfred would be protective of like this.

“What happened?” Bruce repeated his deeper tone coming from a place of worry but sounded
awfully similar to the tone he would use in anger.

“As I said I am unsure however Richard is need of his father not Batman, you are not to
interrogate the lad or admonish him in anyway. He... Whatever has occurred involves... it
involves Deathstroke,” Alfred explained ready to stop Bruce should he disregard any
warnings about berating the teen. “He appears unharmed for the most part, but he is
unconscious, and I am yet to check him over fully.”

Bruce sighed in frustration as he stepped back away from the elevator and rerouted towards
the med-bay.
A million thoughts were going through his head the number one being what has Slade done
to his kid this time. He had presumed the mercenary would have vanished after the fight Dick
had with him like normal but now it seems he never left.

He was using his venture to the med-bay to calm himself down so he wouldn’t lash out at the
teen or have his fear and worry come out as anger. Not only that but if Slade had been near
his son, then they boy most likely would need some form of medical attention. He picked a
smaller first aid kit that contained the usual supplies such as bandages, gauze and the like as
well as a suture kit for any stitches that may need doing. He also picked up a blood analyser
as in the past Deathstroke had used drugs on the teen to keep him pliant and to move him
from locations.

Once he felt like he’d be able to keep himself composed he followed Alfred back towards the
elevator and up to the manor.

As they approached the lounge the butler gave another warning look to the billionaire before
allowing him entry to the room where the teen was.

Dick was already coming to as they entered and was seemingly panicking until his eyes
locked onto them both. As his gaze met with Bruce, he seemed on edge once more as he was
pushing himself away trying to stand from the couch.

“Dick?” Bruce questioned staying where he was as not to frighten the teen more.

Dick had shakily pushed himself from the couch, now using the piece of furniture as a barrier
between his two parental figures as him. Nothing was making sense. He shouldn’t be here the
last thing he remembers is talking with his boss at work. How did he get here?

“Dick, you’re okay, we’re not going to hurt you,” Bruce assured risking taking a step closer
to the boy, but it only made his son step away further. “It’s okay, just calm down, you’re safe
here.”

No, he wasn’t. The last time he was here...

As if Bruce had read his mind the father gently reassured with his hands held up, “I’m not
going to hurt you.”

Dich was shaking but not out of fear from his father knowing that that with Alfred here Bruce
wouldn’t do anything as not to upset the elder man but because his memory was starting to
clear. There was still a haze, but he knows he was with Slade.

“I-I need to go,” Dick stuttered his voice slurred from the sedatives lingering effects.

“Richard, please you are not fit to be going anywhere alone,” Alfred tried to reason hoping
that the teen would no better than to argue with him against this.

“I-I c-can't...” his breathing was picking up and he was quickly heading towards panic attack
territory.
“Dick, you need to calm down, slow deep breaths,” Bruce guided reverting back to the soft
fatherly voice he used to use during Dick’s lowest points in regard to mental health.

The teen was so focused on trying to even his breathing, he didn’t register as Bruce
cautiously crossed the space between them. He didn’t even register his father at his side until
the man carefully took his arm and lead him back to the couch easing him back down. He felt
something rest on his knee once sitting but he wasn’t paying enough attention to realise it
was Ace trying to comfort him.

“That’s it, nice and slow, you’re okay.”

Whilst he continued guiding Dick through the breathing exercise, he nodded to Alfred to start
the blood test.

Despite his time away from the mercenary and the many interactions Dick has had with
needles since the teen still had a lingering fear of them so Alfred made sure to speak through
his actions so the teen would not startle. He was slow making sure the boy would see each
thing he was doing before he actually touched him.

“Richard, I am going to be taking a blood sample from you, you’ll feel a small scratch, but I
assure you, you are safe,” Alfred’s warm accented voice was another anchor Dick was using
to calm his racing heart.

He closed his eyes after his grandfather disinfected the crook of his elbow where the blood
would be drawn from, not wanting to see the needle. His hand was shaking but a larger
calloused hand slipped within his stilling the movement. He resisted the urge to flinch when
he felt the scratch, holding his breath as he felt the slight pressure from where the blood
sample was taken from.

Bruce brought the hand that wasn’t currently trapped within his son’s grasp to the teen’s
cheek, hesitating slightly before softly caressing the boy’s face to coax him into opening his
eyes. It hurt seeing how Dick’s eyes scrunched further shut upon the touch, but Bruce
understood why, he had been a terrible father that day.

“It’s okay, it’s over,” Bruce reassured, and Dick slowly opened his eyes before pulling away
from the hand touching his cheek.

Before the father could say anything further the blood analyser beeped with the results
redirecting his attention to Alfred.

“Nothing too concerning, it is a rather strong sedative but once it has run its course there
should be no lingering side effects,” Alfred explained eliciting a nervous glance from the teen
who curled in on himself slightly. “Richard are you in anyway injured?”

Dick shook his head even though it made him dizzy, however he should have known neither
parental figure would take that as an answer without checking him over first.

“Could you let Alfred check you over please?” Bruce asked though Dick knew it was more of
an instruction.
They know. He knows they know. Slade enjoys messing with him too much not to have them
know he’s still around. How else would he have got into the manor’s main lounge.

“He didn’t hurt me,” Dick admitted sounding somewhat defeated, however he wasn’t
technically lying to them.

Slade hadn’t hurt him while he was with him, well not enough to leave any noticeable marks.
Okay, he may have plenty of injuries from the mercenary given last night's events, especially
because he had been caught whilst not on patrol, but he’d patched himself up just fine. His
stitching might not be as precise as Alfred’s, but he knows how to do it well enough that it
will hold, the only difference will be the noticeability of the scar once it’s full healed.

“Master Richard, Miss Gordon has been keeping me informed of your health, so I know you
are sporting some degree of injury,” Alfred lightly scolded, causing the teen to grimace in
shame for being caught in his lie. “Now would you allow me to assess your injuries.”

“I-I took care of it, and I meant he didn’t do anything today,” his eyes widened when he
realised what he said.

“Today? As in you’ve been around him more than once?” Bruce questioned a flicker of
worried anger in his eye.

“I...”

“How many times have you come across him since... Why haven’t you said anything?” Bruce
continued his concern and fear showing in his voice as the Batman tone started creeping in.

Dick couldn’t do this. Everything was starting to become too much. His head was hurting,
and Bruce’s tirade of questions was only making it worse. He needs to leave, he can’t stay
here... But he has too. Slade brought him here for a reason and that reason is so Dick will do
as he’s told. He would have to anyway if he has any chance of saving Red Arrow.

Just because he has to stay here doesn’t mean he has to answer or continue listening to
Bruce’s interrogation.

He tried to push himself back off the couch, however that proved to be a bad idea as
everything started to spin and go fuzzy.

Bruce saw him going down and was quick to wrap his arms around the boy so he wouldn’t
fall and hurt himself worse than he already is.

“I’ll take him to his room, and would you be able to check him over,” Bruce asked as he
readjusted his hold, he had on the teen to carry him upstairs.

Alfred nodded and followed the billionaire up to the teen’s room med kit in hand. The family
dog also followed and neither adult said anything when he jumped up on the Dick’s bed after
Bruce got his son situated.

As Bruce removed Dick’s shoes, Alfred began removing the teen’s shirt and both grimaced at
the sight that greeted them.
There were multiple injuries in various stages of healing some of which looking to be as new
as from last night others a week or so old. The worst was the stab wound in the boy’s
shoulder, that goes over a scar the mercenary had previously left on him from the night he
attacked a young Richard in the manor, in this very room. It had already been stitched
obviously by Dick, but Alfred saw the need to re-do it so it would be more precise. There
were various bruises littering the teen’s entire front and most likely his back to all of which in
different stages of healed. Other injuries included partly healed cracked ribs, smaller
knife/sword wounds most having healed enough not to need stitches of any kind and it was
only as they thoroughly checked the teen over, they noticed the hand shaped mark around his
neck.

“I’ll stay with him until he wakes up,” Bruce stated running his hand through Dick’s hair.

“It may be better to leave Richard for now, he seemed overwhelmed with us around which I
suspect is why he lost consciousness, I suggest we routinely check up on him to ensure he
doesn’t try to leave when he wakes up as he isn’t in any state to be going anywhere on his
own,” Alfred advised as he finished the last of the stiches to the stab wound.

Bruce sighed but agreed, Alfred was most likely right, and he could tell Dick was anxious of
him. He couldn’t blame the boy after what he did, he wouldn’t be surprised if his son never
wanted anything to do with him again. Maybe he doesn’t and that’s why Dick didn’t come to
him about Slade. He needs to try and make full amends with the teen; he had tried to but then
the warehouse explosion occurred well... he let his fear turn to anger again. He has to show
the boy he’s sorry and actually prove to him that he means it, but it’s hard to do so when his
fear of losing his son turns to anger because of his worry when the boy is hurt.
 No Choice

Gotham City, June 7 th , 3:17PM

The sun was streaming through a crack in the curtains, warming his cheek as Dick woke up
and for a brief moment forgetting where he was. It was as the feeling of silk brushed over his
skin, he realised he was in his room at the manor and not his apartment in Blüdhaven.

He sat up slowly, stretching his sore aching muscles as he looked around his childhood room.
It was perfectly clean, not a dust trail in sight which isn’t uncommon, Alfred takes good care
of the house. What was uncommon however was him waking up alone considering he knows
he didn’t willingly choose to stay here.

His memory is still a little hazy about how he ended up at the manor, but he knows it has
something to do with Slade. He remembers Deathstroke telling him something but what
was...

Red Arrow.

That’s why he was brought here instead of being dumped in his apartment. Slade wants him
to get the files off the Bat-Computer. That will probably be easier said than done. From what
he remembers Bruce had wanted Alfred to check him over, after that everything is a little
fuzzy.

Something brushed against his hand, making him flinch slightly until Dick realised it was
Ace lying next to him on the bed. His head must be a mess if he didn’t notice the dog next to
him earlier.

“I’m okay Ace,” Dick cringed at how rough his voice sounded and bringing his hand up to
massage his neck he realised why.

It hurt to the touch which is when he remembered how the mercenary had choked him almost
to the point he passed out. He endured the pain as he still massaged the area hoping it would
rid some of the hoarseness from his voice.

He needed to come up with a plan to get the information he needed of the computer then
leave. Both Bruce and Alfred know about Slade therefore they won’t want him to be going
anywhere on his own. Bruce will be worse; he might even put the manor on lockdown to
keep him from running off.

He could just tell them the truth, that Red Arrow is in danger and the only one who knows
where he is, is Deathstroke. Then again, he’d probably receive a lecture for being stupid and
trusting Slade. He can’t really blame them for that, he probably shouldn’t be trusting the
mercenary, but Slade has never gone back on his word before. If Deathstroke has said he'll
give Red Arrows location in return for a favour, then Dick has no choice but trust him.
It seems he doesn’t have a choice in anything he does lately as every time he makes a
decision for himself it ends up getting him in trouble.

“Master Richard, good to see you finally awake,” Alfred greeted refocusing Dick’s attention.
“How are you feeling, dear boy?”

“I’m fine, you don’t have to worry Alfred,” Dick attempted to reassure but he knew Alfred
wouldn’t buy it.

Rather than questioning the teen further, Alfred handed the boy the pain medication and
water that had been left on the bedside cabinet, “I would be grateful if you would take this
without arguments as I know you are in need of the medication.”

Dick nodded in agreement, figuring the only way he’d get out of here without a fight would
be to follow any requests that show he can look after himself. No doubt Barbara has been
relaying information to his grandfather about him, so Dick needs to make it seem as if she’s
exaggerating.

“Thanks Alfred,” Dick stated once the pills were swallowed, biting his lip waiting for some
kind of reprimand for not mentioning Deathstroke to anyone.

“Master Bruce has requested for you to stay here while you recover though I suspect he will
also want to discuss your recent activities,” Alfred said giving the teen a look saying he
wouldn’t win any arguments on the matter.

Dick however still tried because he couldn’t stay while Red Arrow was being held captive
and likely being tortured, “I have work.”

“I’m certain they will understand, Bruce... a press conference is being held today to
announce... to announce Master Jason’s passing,” Alfred explained his voice cracking,
something unfamiliar as the butler was usual the best at keeping his emotions intact.

“I’m sorry I wasn’t here, maybe if I was...”

“Richard, please I know what Master Bruce said to you, but I assure you it was not your
fault, what... what happened to Jason was... was...” Alfred cut off sighing trying to keep the
tears in his eyes from falling.

“Sorry Alfred, I-I didn’t mean to upset you,” Dick replied reaching for his grandfather’s
gloved hand and squeezing it as it was his way of offering silent comfort.

“It’s alright lad, I know,” Alfred assured clearing his throat to compose himself slightly.
“Now do you require anything?”

Dick knew this was Alfred’s way of coping, similar to him he busied himself as not to allow
the darkness creep in. Distracting himself with other tasks so his mind won’t think about the
pain and hurt. It seems it’s a trait they all share, the only difference is how they distract
themselves. Bruce almost full shifts to Batman becoming obsessed with every little case.
Alfred focuses on his work around the manor and on occasion when things are incredibly
hard, he has been known to obsessively clean where he’ll spend an hour polishing just one
item. And Dick has to busy himself in anything he can, be it work, the team, the academy or
his solo Nightwing activities, for him he can’t have one thing to focus on, he needs multiple.

“I’m fine, thanks,” Dick replied receiving a minute nod from the butler before he was
vacating the room.

Dick sighed in relief as soon as he was lone once more thankful Alfred hadn’t pushed for any
information on what he’d gotten himself into over the last couple of weeks. He was also glad
that his grandfather didn’t force any more than some water and pain medication on him as
Alfred would usually be the first into trying to get him to eat when he’s not 100%.

There was one thing he wasn’t entirely relieved about... Bruce not being here because that
had to mean Slade had somehow planned for this. Why else would he bring him here, instead
of taking him back to his apartment. Deathstroke is probably expecting him to hack into the
files now while Bruce isn’t here, then contact him. It makes sense because the mercenary
wasn’t concerned about Dick being kicked out as if he’d get the information no matter what.

Slade was giving him no choice but to do what was asked, not that he had a choice in the first
place given Red Arrow’s life was at risk if he didn’t. He’d made sure Bruce wouldn’t be a
problem, so it forced him to comply.

A part of Dick was tempted not to do it and tell the truth to Bruce and the team, but he
couldn’t take the risk of his friend being killed.

Alfred had just checked in on him which would hopefully give him a long enough window to
get down to the cave, find what he needs and leave. He wouldn’t be able to stay after doing
this, after going behind his father’s back because of Slade again. He still hadn’t forgiven
himself for the first time but this time he didn’t have a choice. It was either get whatever files
Slade wants or his brother loses his life, it's an obvious choice and the only one, even if it
means Dick has to sacrifice himself to his personal monster.

Mind made up, knowing he has no other option Dick slowly eased himself out of bed taking
his time as despite being unconscious for however many however he was still feeling awful.
He also had to try to keep his movements quiet as not to alert Alfred to what he was doing as
his grandfather would most definitely protest, which in all fairness would be understandable
given Dick’s opponent. Having Ace following him wasn’t going to be ideal but Dick was just
hoping Alfred would be far enough away from his path to notice the sound of the animal
walking around the manor.

One thing he didn’t have to worry about when creeping from his room to Bruce’s study
where the cave entrance is located would be squeaky floors or doors as that is something his
grandfather has never tolerated.

He silently crept through the halls and down the stairs, pausing every few steps to listen out
for Alfred. Honestly it wouldn’t really help; the older man is as stealthy as Bruce more so
even given how often he enters a room without anyone noticing. Still Dick kept up listening
out for any telltale signs of the butler and surprisingly or more accurately luckily Alfred
wasn’t anywhere between his room and Bruce’s study. Of course, that could be because the
butler is cleaning in the cave something only, he deems necessary.

Dick took the chance of turning the clock hands to ‘10:57’ opening the hidden entrance of the
Bat-Cave and granting him access. Before venturing down to the caverns below he instructed
Ace to ‘stay’ so he could make his leave as soon as he had the information, he needed rather
than risk being caught bringing the dog back upstairs.

As Dick finally sat in the chair by the computer, he realised how much the trip from his room
down here had exerted him as his whole body was screaming with aches in places he didn’t
even know could ache. Apparently, Slade did worse than he had initially thought if the pain
medication he had taken hadn’t eased anything yet, though he supposes that is most likely to
do with him moving around and not letting his body rest.

He breathed for a minute or so waiting for the pain to dull before continuing on with his task
that he much rather not do but once again it’s not like he had much of a choice.

He was thankful to find that despite all of Bruce’s paranoia he hadn't changed or deleted
Dick’s access codes to the computer which would make his mission hunting down the files
Deathstroke requires a lot easier than he had initially planned.

Neither of his parental figures had stripped him of the pants he had been wearing the previous
day, unlike his shirt as he knows he hadn’t been wearing the Superman T-shirt he’s currently
sporting. With him still wearing the pants he had when he arrived at the manor, he fished for
the phone that he still had when Slade had given it to him during his Robin days to check if
the mercenary had sent the intel he needed over. As predicted, he was greeted with the
information, he’d need to search through Bruce’s files to locate the ones on the mercenary
group holding Red Arrow captive as well as a meeting location for the following day.

Dick got to work quickly scanning through all the folders on the computer and downloading
the files he needed to his personal files that he could access in ‘Haven. It didn’t take him long
before he had everything his father had on the group downloaded into his files which
honestly wasn’t too much.

He decided he’d be better off reading through the intel when he’s back in Gotham’s sister city
as he didn’t know how long he’d have before Alfred or even Bruce came looking for him. It’s
not like he knew exactly when his father would be returning from the press conference, and
he’d rather not take the chance of being caught.

Thinking of the press conference he’s surprised he didn’t know about it up until Alfred
mentioned it. Maybe Barbara or Wally had tried telling him and he hadn’t paid attention to
busy in his own head. However, he’s sure he would have noticed a news article or something
announcing it, the Wayne name is famous after all, and any kind of press event is usually
announced a few days in advance to create a buzz. Then again, he hasn’t been focused on
anything other than living each day without breaking and falling apart.

He shook the thought from his head, needing to get out of here before he is discovered
because he will be in serious trouble if anyone finds out what he’s doing. He could think
about his lack of notice later when he was in the safety of his apartment. Not that he could
call it safe given how many times Slade has been there waiting for him.

Maybe he should consider moving. No, he did that, and Slade still found him even though he
hadn’t moved because of Deathstroke...

“Focus Grayson,” Dick berated himself as he carefully stood keeping slow to horde off any
dizziness even though it would come back with a vengeance when he uses the Zeta Tube.

He made his way to the teleportation and typed co-ordinates in for the Zeta in the ‘Haven
warehouse, then was soon vanishing once again running from his childhood home without so
much as a goodbye.
 What Has He Gotten Himself Into

Star City, June 12 th , 12:03PM

Dick was going to be in so much trouble when he next sees his father or anyone from the
hero community for that matter. After his departure from the manor, he’d cut contact with
everyone and hadn’t returned to his apartment since meeting with Deathstroke. He had stayed
within ‘Haven at a cheap motel for a day before vacating to Star City after being given
bereavement leave from both jobs and the academy. It had been a little harder with the cop
bar job when using that excuse until he explained his previous time off, he had said was a
family emergency was his brother in hospital receiving treatment for an illness which had
since taken his life.

He’d gone to Star for another meeting with Slade before both of them hunted down the
mercenary group that were currently holding Red Arrow captive.

Despite his protests he was sharing a penthouse suite with Slade in an expensive hotel where
they were holding up until a ship came into the docks the following night. The specific hotel
they were staying was where a potential associate of the merc group was also staying which
is why Slade had forced him here.

He had tried to take off on his own after meeting up after leaving the manor, but the
mercenary had warned him that doing so would only cause the archer more harm and most
likely get both Roy and him killed. So reluctantly he had agreed to partner with Slade
knowing that with his current lack of focus the mercenary was probably right. Dick hated it
but it was the only way to guarantee Red Arrow got out alive.

Since his departure he had endless calls from Bruce as well as the team which he has ignored
not needing them to tell him what he was doing was stupid. He knows it is. That’s why he
hadn’t disabled his trackers when he had access to the Bat-Computer. Dick didn’t trust the
mercenary not to try and force him to return as his apprentice, especially since he had
willingly got the information Slade had asked for. If he ended up needing help, Bruce would
know instantly and would hopefully come for him.

Then again, he’d kept secrets and went behind his back, not to mention they weren’t on the
best of terms anyway. What if Dick’s actions led to Bruce leaving him as prey for
Deathstroke.

Dick wouldn’t blame him. He’d understand, he hasn’t been the best son as of late and that
was before Jason when he’d also been a pretty pathetic brother. If Bruce washed his hands of
him then Dick would understand and suffer the consequences for being a liar and failure of a
son.

“I hope you're not planning on jumping little bird,” Slade’s voice sounded behind him
causing the teen to flinch slightly.
He had been trying to avoid the mercenary in the penthouse suite, spending most of his time
out on the balcony or his personal room. Not that it mattered if Deathstroke wanted him, he’d
just invade Dick’s sanctuary to prove that while he may not be playing the role of apprentice,
Slade was still very much in control.

Dick didn’t reply, instead shot a glare over his shoulder at having had his peace disrupted.

“I presumed you wouldn’t want the clone knowing that you’re assisting...”

“I’m not ‘assisting’ you, I’m only here because...” Dick hissed in argument but was cut off by
the mercenary.

“Right, you’re here to help your so-called friend either way I assume you wouldn’t want him
aware of your involvement with me which means the black and blue wouldn’t be wise attire
tomorrow evening,” Slade smirked seeing the panic turned outrage on the teen’s face.

“No. I know what you’re suggesting and it’s not happening,” Dick snapped, he’d rather die
than ever don the black and orange again, he promised himself Renegade would never come
back.

“Then what do you suggest little bird because I know your little found family will not
understand our current truce,” Slade questioned cocking his eyebrow as if challenge Dick to
find another way on short notice.

“I’ll take my chances with their disapproval, I’ll already be on the receiving end of it
anyway,” Dick shrugged moving to go back to his room because he didn’t want to deal with
Slade any more than necessary.

Deathstroke however blocked his path, not quite finished with their conversation even if Dick
was.

“I have a job for you tonight,” Slade stated not paying attention to the scowl the boy threw at
him and cutting him off before he can argue. “You’ll be attending a dinner reservation with
the associate of our targets, undercover as someone interested in his search for a bodyguard
of sorts.”

“I’m not here to help you,” Dick once again tried to get past the mercenary, but Slade
grabbed his arm in grip the teen was all too familiar with. “You need someone to be friendly,
do it yourself or have Wintergreen do it, I’m not...”

“You’ll do as I say little bird, or the archer will be as good as dead. You don’t have much
choice in the matter, you refuse to ditch the black and blue, and I won’t have it appear as if
one you heroes are interfering with my business. The only way you’re getting the clone out
of there is appearing as Renegade or making friends with Ryder,” Slade interrupted once
again keeping his smirk small knowing the teen really didn’t have any other options. “You
have until 5PM to decide, as your wardrobe for the evening will be delivered then.”
Slade finally released the bruising hold he had on him and stepped aside to allow Dick to
retreat back to his room away from the mercenary. He was balling his fists to conceal the
nervous quiver of his hands, hating that Slade was still able to get that reaction from him.

“I expect you on the roof in an hour,” Slade stated as Dick quickly escaped him.

The teen knew what that meant. Deathstroke wanted to do some training before tomorrow
night to make sure Dick would be able to hold his own even with his still healing injuries.
They’d trained every day since they met after Dick left the manor, Slade not being as ruthless
as he had been on previous encounters. He still went hard, not holding back but he wasn’t
solely out to hurt the teen and there would be less goading and mind games. For Dick it had
actually become a nice change of pace not having to both physically and mentally battle the
mercenary.

He didn’t give any form of reply to the mercenary and just continued his way to his room,
needing that distance to calm himself. Slade may not be playing as many mind games as he
had been but being around him still would cause Dick’s anxiety levels to stay high. The
prolonged contact was making it even worse, especially now the nightmares are returning.

Truth be told they never left; they just weren’t as frequent or more accurately they were
frequent but not as many involved Deathstroke anymore.

He knows Slade heard him last night. How could he not he woke up screaming with tears
streaming down his face.

He ended up staying up the rest of the night after writing the details of the nightmare in the
notes on his phone. He would normally use a journal or notebook but that was still at his
apartment in Blüdhaven, so for now his phone would have to suffice. To be fair his phone
probably is the better option while he’s around Slade as there is no chance of the mercenary
going through it as Dick kept it on him at all times.

When Dick finally reached his room and was hidden safely away, or as safe as he can be in
the company of Deathstroke he released a shuddering breath. He continued taking slow deep
breaths to slow his racing heart as he slid against the closed door to the floor. He rested his
head on his knees as he continued through the breathing exercise, focusing on nothing else
except for that.

He wanted to scream, to cry, to let everything out but he couldn’t show his weakness or
vulnerability with Slade lingering as it would probably be used against him later. No doubt
Deathstroke will use his nightmare against him in training in attempts to get a reaction from
him.

That’s the least of his concerns as now he has to decide between bringing Renegade back or
playing Slade’s game of attending the dinner reservation with Ryder. Neither he wanted to do.
He promised himself hat he’d never don the Renegade persona again, but would he be able to
convince Ryder to accept him as a new hire.

Deathstroke had briefed him on the man when the departed from ‘Haven as a ‘precaution for
if they ever crossed paths while in the same building’. Dick knew there was something wrong
with that when Slade began because he knew for certain the mercenary wouldn’t be letting
him wander freely, which up to now he hadn’t by making sure not to give the room code to
him, practically keeping him prisoner. The only time Dick was allowed to leave the
penthouse was for the training sessions on the roof, in which Slade would be the one to lead
him there. It wasn’t briefed on Ryder as a ‘just in case’ he was told about him because
Deathstroke had already planned for them to cross each other knowing Dick would refuse to
play his game as Renegade.

If this was any other time Dick wouldn’t question himself on if he could convince someone
of a character he was playing, he was a born performer and had played many roles over the
years for undercover work. Now however he had to second guess himself because he knows
he’s not at the top of his game in anything. He was distracted and that could easily lead to
Ryder deciding to have him killed as the manike anyone who wasn’t within his ranks
knowing about him.

His phone then began to vibrate distracting him from making the decision between his two
options. Even though he wasn’t going to answer it he still checked who was trying to reach
him this time surprised to see his alien uncle’s name as last he knew he was on an off-world
mission.

Dick doesn’t know why but he accepted the call. Maybe it was out of fear because if Clark
was reaching out that means something could have happened to Bruce.

“H-hello.”

“Dick? Is it really you?” Clark was quick to ask having not expected an answer after being
told no-one had heard from the boy wonder for a few days now. “Are you okay? Everyone's
been worried about you.”

“I...” Dick faltered off for some reason hearing his uncle’s voice was bringing tears to his
eyes. “There’s some stuff I-I need to deal with an-and it’s... it’s going to be dangerous,” he
doesn’t know why he’s saying any of this, possibly because it’s the first friendly voice he’s
allowed himself to hear in days. “I-I need to... to do it alone...”

“Dick, where are you? If you need help I can be there straight away,” Clark cut off, when he
returned from his mission, he was told of his pseudo-nephew’s distant behaviour and Bruce
had also told him about an incident involving Deathstroke.

“I’ll be okay,” Dick muttered biting his bottom lip to prevent the choked sob that wanted to
follow. “Te... Can you let everyone know I’m fine and... and I’m sorry.”

“Dick, whatever you’ve got going on you can tell me, I promise it won’t go back to Bruce,”
Clark tried to push he could tell from the teen’s voice he was on the verge of a breakdown.
“Tell me where you are and I’ll come get you, if you don’t want to talk that’s fine but...”

“I’m sorry,” Dick whispered ending the call as the tears finally fell.

He could have told the truth and explained everything but he was afraid doing so would get
his friend hurt. He doesn’t even know why he answered in the first place, it wasn’t the fear of
something happening to Bruce even if that’s what he was trying to convince himself.

If something had happened to his father he’d know, Deathstroke would make sure of it. He’d
make it seem as if it was Dick’s fault for not being there and being at his side instead. He’d
convince Dick that because of his secrest and lies his father was hurt or killed. And Dick
would believe him because whether he admits it or not, Slade is in his head and has been
since his days as Robin.

Therapy helped deal with it. Time helped him process everything. However, every now and
then when something goes wrong there’s a little voice in the back of his head, the same voice
that at one pint was a constant companion, telling him that he was the cause of everyone’s
problems.
 Undercover Failure
Chapter Notes

Apologies once more for not uploading yesterday and for the slower than usual updates
when it comes to how quick I would normally have chapters out. Still waiting to get my
new laptop and have been unwell the past few days so not been motivated to write. I'm
feeling a little better today but still not 100% so further apologies for anymore delays
with chapters but once recovered and I have my new computer which I should be getting
on Sunday when I go home things should start picking up.

Also I have a few other projects I've started on which are still in the works however one
should be ready to start being posted relatively soon depending on the computer I'm
currently stuck using

Star City, June 12 th , 6:58PM

To say Dick was nervous would be an understatement, his anxiety was flaring up almost
uncontrollably. Thankfully he had years of practice with dealing with it that he was able to
keep himself somewhat composed for the meeting up ahead. However, Slade being at a table
across the room watching him didn’t help especially with the false eye the man was using to
appear normal looking. The false eye was void of anything and made Slade’s predatory gaze
even more threatening then when it was the lone eye.

Dick took another sip of water to try to calm his nerves and ease his dry mouth from how on
edge he was. He was becoming impatient, and it was starting to show by the way his leg was
shaking in anticipation. The suit chosen for him felt restricted even though it was the perfect
fit and the tie felt heavy as if making it hard to breath.

The suit was chosen purposely to make him uncomfortable as it forced him into the colours
of the mercenary. He hated it but it was either this or don the Renegade uniform once again
which Deathstroke has shown he has made up, to accommodate the growth he has head in the
past couple of years. It made his stomach churn when Slade revealed the uniform, the thought
that the mercenary had it made even though Dick still refused to join him.

As he waits for the arrival of his meeting partner the teen’s mind begins to wander, trying to
work out how he ever got himself into any of this in the first place.

He knows how, becoming Robin caused this but could he have avoided it while still
becoming a hero. Maybe if he didn’t sneak off to Haly’s with the team to make sure his
childhood home wasn’t destroyed because of the Parasite’s crimes. After all that’s how Slade
learned who he was because he used Batman’s name in the field while undercover. If he
hadn’t had done that maybe is civilian identity would still be intact, then again when Slade
cornered him, he had said he already had suspicions.

The way Dick sees it the only way he could have avoided having any involvement with the
mercenary is if he never became Robin in the first place.

What would he have done without Robin? Would he still have known about Bruce? Would he
still be friends with Wally and the others?

Those answers are simple... No, without Robin, Tony Zucco would have killed him.

“Eyes up Grayson, Ryder is approaching,” Slade’s voice came through the concealed earpiece
brining his attention back.

He looked up and easily noticed the man he was meeting with, it was hard not to given the
person following him with a concealed weapon that he wouldn’t have noticed had he not
been trained to take in his surroundings.

“Mr Castle, I presume?” Ryder asked eyeing the teen suspiciously as he stood behind the
opposite seat to Dick.

“That would be me and Ethan is fine thank you Mr Ryder,” Dick greeted standing and firmly
shaking the other man’s hand thankful of the gloves he was wearing as it kept his sweating
palms hidden.

Ryder gestured for the teen to sit back down as he followed, after giving a dismissive wave to
his shadow who staled towards the exit of the hotel restaurant where he could keep an eye on
everything.

“Might I ask how old you are?” Ryder questioned keeping his gaze set firmly on Dick. “You
appear rather young to be searching for a job opportunity within an organization like my
own.”

“Twenty-one,” Dick lied easily. “I discharged from the army after receiving news my... My
father was sick and now I’m looking for something that pays well enough to cover his
treatment.”

Army back story, another one of Slade’s games to make Dick uncomfortable because the
mercenary himself discharged albeit for different reasons.

“I see, but surely a young man like yourself would have countless opportunities in the world
of employment, I’m certain you would be able to find work in plenty of places that are...
more morally focused,” Ryder quizzed still suspicious of the young stranger which Dick had
expected from the brief Slade had given him.

“You’re probably right, but...” Dick began but was cut off by the elder man.

“Or you could make Mr Wayne pay for his own treatment,” Ryder smirked, he knew he
recognised the boy but struggled to place it at first.
“Excuse me?” Dick questioned trying to play of being caught.

He was worried of something like this happening without a proper way of disguising himself
except for the fake name. He might not be as often associated with Bruce since he moved out
but of course he was still recognised on occasion and of course he had to be recognised now
of all times. Could he not catch a break and have things go easy for once.

Ryder simply pointed behind the boy where someone was reading a newspaper the front
image being of Bruce at the press conference and two other images one of him, the other of
Jason. Dick quickly recognised the man as Wintergreen which means Slade planned for this,
the question is why.

Slade wasn’t typically one to draw attention to himself... Saying that he isn’t drawing
attention to himself he’s drawing attention to Dick, but why make him go undercover just to
get him caught.

“Now would you care to explain why the sole heir to a multibillion-dollar company is using
an alias to gain employment in my business,” Ryder questioned smugly seeing the boy pale
suddenly at being caught out.

“I’m not...” Dick muttered his brain not co-operating to come up with a proper explanation,
but he recognised the look Ryder gave him, he saw him as a quick pay cheque.

Dick had seen that same look countless times since being taken in by Bruce after his family
died and was all too familiar with it. Wally and Barbara like to tease him about it calling him
‘boy hostage’ or ‘the poster boy for kidnapping’ because of how often it had been at one
point in time. Whether it was as Dick Grayson or Robin he had seen the look of someone
planning to turn you hostage thinking they could gain something out of you. That was the
look he was receiving currently from Ryder, and he had to resist the urge to roll his eyes as he
had thought he’d grown out of his days as a hostage, especially as Dick Grayson ward of
billionaire Bruce Wayne.

“Not what sunshine?”

“I’m not the heir to his company, I... he isn’t my father, he... he n-never adopted me,” Dick
doesn’t know why he’s even saying any of this, it’s true. Well, mostly. He’s been forcing
himself to believe that Bruce doesn’t see him as his son since... since he learnt of Jason when
Bruce...

“Well kid that didn’t answer my earlier question but at least I know I'll be wasting my time
having some friends of mine contacting Mr Money-Bags about his... whatever you are to
him,” Ryder said nodding for the man who had followed him earlier to come back over to
their table.

This is not going to end well. If what Deathstroke told him about Ryder is true, Dick wasn’t
going to survive the next hour. No doubt Ryder is telling his hired help to take him out back
right now and put a bullet in his head.
Both Ryder and his goon faced him once more having finished their private conversation
which Dick didn’t even think to listen on to busy watching Slade trying to figure out what his
game was with this.

Dick couldn’t help the hairs standing on the back of his neck or the slight shiver that ran
through him as the two men just stared at him not saying anything. He avoided eye contact
for the most part but doing so only meant his eyes were drawn to where Deathstroke was also
watching him clearly amused with his uneasiness having been listening in on everything to
occur so far.

“So, kid you going to explain what Bruce Wayne’s gypsy brat is doing snooping in my
business?” Ryder raised his brow repeating his earlier question once again.

Great he’s one of them that has to bring heritage into it... Focus Grayson that’s the least of
your concerns right now.

“Okay, I lied about who I am and why I was here, but the thing about me needing money
wasn’t a lie. Like I said Br- Mr Wayne isn’t anything to me, not anymore, he... he cut me off
when he adopted the other kid,” Dick explained inwardly cringing at how his voice shook
and his pathetic excuse of an answer.

“Still kid, he may have cut you off, but you’ve probably got connections. Why not use them?
Or better yet go bag to wherever he picked you up from,” Ryder continued glancing at his
partner who in turn circled the teen to stand behind the boy.

Dick resisted the urge to retaliate when the goon's hands found their way onto his shoulders
keeping him in place with the minute pressure used to keep hold of him. That slight pressure
however caused his joints to throb especially in his right shoulder which he had to relocate
earlier after his and Deathstroke’s training session when the mercenary had dislocated it.

“I...”

“I think this conversation would be better to be had elsewhere,” Ryder stated cutting Dick off
before he could begin properly.

Slade’s voice sounded in the concealed earpiece at that, “you are to go with him without a
fight or any of your usual arguments.”

Dick not wanting to go somewhere where it would be easy to make him disappear
permanently still tried to stall knowing that even without Slade instructing him not to fight,
he couldn’t without putting identities at risk. He could put up a little resistance which could
be explained away from his police academy training but not enough that it would get him out
of whatever situation he’s got himself into now without drawing too much attention and
raising questions.

“You sure, I heard this place has a great wine selection and you look like a wine Conosur to
me.”
“Nice try kid, but were leaving and you try pulling any tricks or drawing attention my friend
has a permit and will not hesitate in using it,” Ryder chided standing from his seat gesturing
for the teen to follow him.

As Dick stood he glanced towards where Slade was still seated acroos the resturaunt once
more ane the mercenary merely nodded, a silent instruction for him to comply. Dick would
much rather not go anywhere considering this man could be the one holding his friend
captive currently but it’s not like he had much of a choice with the threat of being shot now in
play. He wasn’t a vigilante now. To Ryder he was an ex-rich boy with daddy issues who got
caught in a world he doesn’t belong in.

Hesitantly he followed the elder man towards the exit, Ryder’s unnamed goon keeping a
controlling grip on his shoulder as he led him.

This is now another moment Dick is thankful that he didn’t disable his tracker because if
something goes wrong it won’t take long for someone to find him. Then again, his vitals
would need to change drastically for Bruce to even notice if he was in danger and even then,
would he care after Dick left without a word. Would he just leave him to his own devices
because Dick didn’t tell him about Slade and then technically stole files from the Bat-
Computer behind his back. Maybe he shouldn’t hold out for backup and think of a way he
can get out of this on his own if things go haywire.

He did tell everyone that Slade was his problem. And he told Clark that what he was doing
was something he needed to do alone. He has to go into this without expecting help, he has to
make sure he can get out of this situation without dying and without putting Red Arrow’s life
at risk. Whatever happens he has to be ready to face this situation head on, all by himself.
 World's Finest

Watchtower, June 13 th , 11:12AM

After the brief phone call with Dick yesterday Clark fully understood the extent of the
younger heroes worry for him. He could easily tell the hurt in his nephew’s voice as he spoke
and wished the teen would have opened up to him or told him where he was.

He hadn’t spoken to Bruce much since returning from his off-world mission and today would
be the first time they’ll be seeing each other in person since the warehouse explosion.
Honestly, he hadn’t seen Batman in person much in general for nearly two months, but it was
understandable, the man was grieving the loss of his second son. However, Clark did wish
that the grief Bruce was feeling hadn’t been directed to Dick in misplaced anger.

He understands why his friend’s emotions come out the way they do sometimes, and it
always comes down to his overprotectiveness and worry. He knows that the rocky
relationship between his friend and nephew is down to Bruce worrying for Dick’s safety
which is why he pushed the teen away. In Bruce’s eyes that distance between him and Dick
was a way for him to protect his son not realising that it also hurt the teen in the process.

Clark remembers vividly when the boy appeared at his apartment in Metropolis looking like a
drowned rat from the rain, his eyes red rimmed and puffy from crying. Like most of the
league he felt a need to look out for the kid and didn’t hesitate bringing him inside to see
what was wrong and help him. Unlike most of the leaguers his need to watch over Dick
didn’t just come from the fact that he was the first protégé or the youngest among them at the
time, but he had a more personal connection with the boy. He knew the true Dick Grayson, a
privilege that hadn’t been granted to many of the league with Batman being secretive to most
about his identity.

Clark still had an advantage against other who knew the name of Dick Grayson as only a
select few knew him on a personnel level enough to call him friend and in his case nephew.
Those few included besides himself the original team members, Diana, Flash, Green Arrow
and Black Canary. Clark liked to think he still had a more personal connection given out of
the adults who knew Dick Grayson, it was him the teen came to when Bruce fired him as
Robin.

Clark understands his friends reasoning but also understands why Dick had been hurt by the
loss of Robin. To the boy Robin wasn’t just a name he used as a hero, Robin was a name his
mother had called him which is why he had chosen it for his moniker in her honour. However
he knows why Bruce made the choice to no longer have Robin at his side, their line of work
was dangerous and he’d come close to losing the boy too many times.

When Dick came to him a little over a year ago explaining what happened, Clark knew that
even if he was no longer Batman’s partner Dick wouldn’t give up the mask. It’s why he
shared the story from his home planet with the teen which inspired Dick’s current moniker
‘Nightwing’. It was a Kryptonian legend about a hero with the same name who used his skills
and talents to help and defend those that could not do so themselves. He was proud when the
boy came back in a new suit donning the name as it showed his resilience and light.

While the alien may have understood Bruce’s reasoning for firing Dick as his partner he did
not understand why his friend allowed another boy to don the name that belonged to Dick.
He fired his son to protect him and yet allowed another teenager to take up the mantle which
made no sense to anyone. He had voiced his reservations as he did when Batman had first
introduced Dick as Robin to the league years ago but Bruce had made the same comments he
had then ‘he is trained and ready’.

When the news that Jason had been killed in contume was announced a part of Clark had
wanted to say ‘I told you so’ no matter how unfair that may have been. His friend had taken
one child out of battle to protect him, only to cost another his life and he just hopes that
Bruce will think twice before putting someone on the front lines again.

‘Recognised Batman 02.”

The announcement made the teleportation redirected the aliens attention as he approached
where Batman appeared looking as emotionless as usual.

Normally Clark would have gone to Gotham for a conversation like the one he is about to
have with the dark knight but with the possibility of Dick being in need of an evac he had
arranged to meet at the Watchtower where they could assemble a team instantly.

“This better be important,” Batman addressed already wanting to leave.

“When was the last time you spoke to Nightwing?” Superman questioned already presuming
an idea of when but he wanted to be sure. “Have you spoken to him since he was last at the
manor?”

“No, as far as I’m aware no one has had contact with him since he left after downloading files
from the Bat-Computer,” Batman a hint of the worried father creeping into his voice.

“Do you know where he is at least?” Clark asked.

Batman pulled up the holo-display of his gauntlet and accessed the tracking software for
Dick’s tracers displaying him in Star City where he had been for the past few days. He did
notice a change in location as know the trackers showed his son to be near the docks of the
city which was around an hour drive from where Dick had been previous located. He had
discovered his son to have been staying at a rather expensive hotel, the same hotel the pair of
them had stayed in on occasion when Wayne Enterpirses buisness took them there. He had
also deduced from the altitude levels the tackers showed Dick was most likely staying in the
penthouse suite or the floor below.

“Care to explain your sudden interest in Nightwing’s whereabouts?” Batman questioned

returning to the full gravel of the dark knight voice despite being concerned why his son was
no longer at the hotel having not moved location since arriving there.
“I’ve spoken to him,” Clark admitted and from the minute change in Bruce’s facial
expression he knew it was a cue to continue. “It was brief, but... I like to think I know him
well enough to be able to detect when he’s on the verge of breaking, h-he's not doing well...”

“What did he say?” Bruce questioned not being able to keep up the persona hearing about his
son and feeling guilty knowing he was a cause of whatever Dick was feeling.

“That he’s sorry,” Clark began as he remembered how close Dick sounded to falling apart
completely when he spoke to him. “He said he had something to deal with and it had to be
done alone and it was going to be dangerous but he’ll be okay. He didn’t say what it was he
was doing, didn’t say much else to be honest but... Bruce I don’t think... I know he’s not
okay.”

“I’ll have Green Arrow shadow him...”

“You can’t be serious?” Clark interrupted questioning incredulously. “You two might not be
on the best terms right now, but that mainly falls down to you. None of that matters now,
what matters is he’s your son and he’s hurting and won’t admit when he needs help which it
seems to me he does. He doesn’t need Oliver or anyone else to shadow him, he needs you to
talk to him and actually listen to anything he has to tell you. I know you tried when he first
returned to the team after the truth about Robin came out and I know he didn’t let you say
what you went to say but you’ve got to realise he was grieving and hurt...”

“You don’t think I know that!” Batman argued, of course he knows Dick was hurting which
is why he left him to his own devices so they wouldn’t argue again. “It’s why I didn’t say
anything to him. I know what I said and did to him was wrong and I’ll will always regret
that...” Bruce faltered off for a moment to collect himself slightly as there was no point
yelling about any of that now. “There’s a lot I regret with him, I’ve made so many, mistakes
with Dick... and still after everything he finds a way to make it all sound as if it was his fault.
When I tried to speak to him, he told me he deserved it and I didn’t argue against it, I’ve let
him believe it. After the explosion, when he was in the med-bay... I wasn’t there for him, I... I
used Robin’s death as an argument...”

“You were scared of losing him,” Clark tried to reason not admonishing the dark knight over
using the second Robin’s death as an argument to get through to the first sensing how much
Bruce regretted it already. “I can’t imagine how you felt that day but I know anything you
said to Dick after, the argument you had with him, it would have been an argument of fear. So
would be whatever occurred at the manor when he was there last.”

Batman knew that was cue for him to explain what happened before Dick cut contact. He had
given a brief explanation to the alien when Clark returned from his off-world mission and
called to give him the report.

“I was on patrol when I received a call from Alfred asking me to return to the manor as soon
as possible, he didn’t say why but somehow I knew it involved Dick and yet I didn’t except
that possibility until Alfred told me directly,” Bruce began remembering how his son had not
only seem scared of him but Alfred as well. “By the time I returned and came up from the
cave to the lounge he’d come to, when he saw me he panicked instantly and pushed himself
away even though he struggled with the movements. It seemed as though al he could think
about was getting away, it was almost as if he was in a trance or a dissociative episode. It
took a moment but I got him to calm down eventually and back on the couch so Alfred could
take a blood test, there were traces of a strong sedative within his blood but aside from that it
seemed normal. When asking to check him for injuries he became guarded and said
something that indicated Deathstroke has been around a few times since the explosion. I
didn’t let him explain, began questioning him, it was too much in his state and he lost
consciousness. After getting him to his room Alfred checked him over and discovered
numerous injuries in various stages of healing, which is when he told me of Batgirl and Kid
Flash’s discovery earlier that day.”

When Alfred had revealed the teen heroes discovery of Dick’s bloodied bathroom but no
damage to the Nightwing suit Bruce went into detective mode. He accessed his son’s phone
knowing the password as Dick hadn’t changed it since moving out and discovered his work
schedule for the week. He was surprised at seeing how busy his son’s schedule was and
shocked that he managed to maintain it along with his duties as Nightwing. He found the
message between Dick or ‘Thomas’ and his boss for a cop bar asking if ‘Thomas’ could swap
shifts with another employee, which ‘Thomas’ accepted. The change in shift would have had
Dick working till almost 2AM which meant it would have been unlikely for him to have
patrolled that night. Bruce hacked into security cameras around the area where the bar his son
worked at was located and was able to catch a glimpse of his son limping into an alley,
gripping his shoulder, the shoulder sporting the stab wound Alfred had restitched. He didn’t
need visual confirmation of who attacked his kid, he knew from the injuries alone it wasn’t a
lucky thug who caught the teen unaware.

Bruce explained all of this to the Kryptonian as well as what he discovered when he returned
from the press conference after publicly announcing the passing of Jason Todd. He knew the
moment he walked through the front door Dick was gone as Ace had greeted him upon his
return. The smart dog also seemed to want to show him something so Bruce followed him to
the study where Ace began scratching at the clock entrance to the Bat-Cave. When he entered
the caverns Alfred was already down there watching the security footage of Dick limping
from the computer towards the Zeta Tube.

“It appears he downloaded some files before taking off,” the butler had said in a mournful
tone.

Bruce had accessed the computer to investigate what his son had been looking for and was
surprised to find it was files on a mercenary group. The surprise quickly faded as he began to
piece things together. Slade had forced Dick home for a reason and this group were most
likely competition and from the files Dick had taken it seems the competion was mainly in
weapons smuggling.

He didn’t want to believe it but the evidence suggests Dick had gone back to Slade, possibly
by his own choice.

“You can’t truly believe he would do that, after everything that happened,” Clark questioned
incredulously, there was no way Dick would ever join Slade.

“I pushed him away, I don’t want to believe it but... Deathstroke is manipulative and he’s
gotten to him before and knows how to get in head. We can’t rule it out as a possibility,”
Bruce responded not an ounce of Batman in his voice, the only thing there was a hurt father.
“I was giving him a week before interfering... I have reason to suspect that Nightwing has a
reason for being there.”

He wasn’t entirely sure his deductions were right which is why he had been continuing to
investigate hoping that Dick would reach out. He should have known better than to think his
son would ask for help, especially with Deathstroke involved and the life of a friend being at
risk.

When Bruce saw the files Dick had downloaded, he looked into the mercenary group to see
what there dealings had been recently. His research led to him discovering that the files of the
group where accessed on the JLA database from a location in Star City three months ago and
the code to who accessed them was Red Arrow’s. He’d then found that Red Arrow hadn’t
checked in since he accessed the files which was odd as he usually would check in at least
once a month with Green Arrow just so everyone knew he was alive still.

He did some more digging into the group and also the files that Red Arrow had been looking
into which led to the discovery of a name that came up multiple times in different files and
reports. The name being Philip Ryder and further investigation into the name had found him
to be a frequent visitor of the same hotel Dick had been located at in Star City. Bruce had
hacked into Ryder’s account and had found a 7PM reservation for the hotel restaurant which
is when he decided to give Dick a week to make contact before following up on anything.
The reason he waited was because the plus one on the reservation was an alias he knew Dick
had used once before for undercover work which meant Dick was the one meeting with
Ryder.

He explained all of this to Clark and immediately the Kryptonian was suggesting they head to
Star City because it sounded like Dick may be in over his head. Bruce agreed with his son
being in over his head as he had been half tempted to go after him as soon as saw his son had
left ‘Haven to go to Star City. The only reason he hadn’t was because he didn’t want it to
appear as he was trying to control the teen but maybe that’s something his son needs right
now. Maybe Dick needs someone to take charge for a bit while he deals with everything
going on his head.

It doesn’t matter now whatever the case because they’re going after Dick and pulling him out
of any danger he may have put himself in.
 Red Arrow

Star City, June 13 th , 11:13AM

He should have seen the hit to the back of the head coming when he was led to an alley
where a grey sedan was parked. He should have known that even though he had admitted to
not being Bruce’s son he’d still be targeted because of the association.

His eyes were still closed even though he was now awake but he’d rather pretned to still be
conked out so he didn’t draw any attention to himself. He was restrained to what feels like a
metal chair, the restraints keeping him in place... he’s not 100% sure but from the sticky, slick
around his wrists and the razor like feel, he’s guessing barbed wire or something similar. He’s
been gagged, but thankfully no blindfold or ear plugs have been used. He hates to admit it but
that still scares him to this day.

He’s not alone. There’s someone else in the room. Their breathing was laboured, struggling,
wheezy.

Dick was both hoping and not that it was the person he thought it was.

He was hoping it was Red Arrow as it meant him being brought wherever he was, (from the
smell of salt and dampness he’s deducing the docks) wasn’t all for nothing. However if it was
Roy that was in the room with him then he needed to figure out how to get them both out of
here without putting his friend in further danger.

He also needed to figure out what Deathstroke is upto seen as though the mercenary had
obviously planned for him to be caught. He had no idea why Slade had done that as he was
told they were both going to be infiltrating some kind of shipment the night after the dinner.

“I-I know y-you're ‘wake,” a voice grunted, a voice which Dick instantly recognised and now
he knew things were going to be even more dangerous as he had to get oth of them out.

He opened his eyes and was instantly faced with a battered Red Arrow in a similar
predicament to himself. The only difference being Red Arrow was hand cuffed to his chair
and not gagged.

With his eyes now open Dick was also able to confirm his bonds were barbed wire as he
predicted which concerned him for two major reason. The first being if he were to move and
the razors on the wire nicked an vein or anything of the sorts he could lose the use of his
hands if it causes nerve damage. The other worry which didn’t frighten him as much as the
former though really it should was why ex-rich boy Richard Grayson ward of billionaire
Bruce Wayne restrained to a higher degree then the vigilante they had captive.

Roy noticed the sudden panic in his little brother and hated that he couldn’t offer anything
more to him than basic reassuance, “i-it will be okay.”
Dick was in a similair state of hate to his friend except his was because of the guilt he was
feeling. He had made a deal with his personel tormentor to save his friend and now his
brother was trying to comfort him when he didn’t deserve it. He’d gotten himself in this
situation, he’d played Slade’s games and was paying the price for doing so.

No-more words were said from the archer as the door to the room they were in swung open
and in strolled in Ryder and Deathstroke.

Red Arrows eyes widen upon the mercenary entering the room and he couldn’t help but
glance worriedly towards his brother. He may not have been around during the worse of what
Deathstroke had put his friend through or in general but Ollie had kept him informed of
everything and so did Jade when she learnt that Robin had become the apprentice of
Deathstroke.

He saw the predatory look in Slade’s lone eye when it settle on the younger teen and he had
to resist the urge to say anything as it could cause Dick harm.

He didn’t know how Dick had come to be involved with Ryder and his crew but he wasn’t
going to let anymore harm come to him.

“I must say Deathstroke I never took you for one to be interested in goods such as this,”
Ryder stated as the mercenary took stock of the product.

“The hero has caused issues for associates of mine and the boy,” Slade began his gaze settling
back on Dick when he adressed his interest in him. “I will find a use for him, if Wayne is no
longer interested in him. What is your price for them?”

Dick closed his eyes once more avoiding eye contact with the mercenary. The way Slade and
Ryder spoke as if he and Roy were nothing more than property made his stomach churn. It
reminded him of his days as Renegade when Deathstroke would have him stand in meetings
with employer or members of the light and act as if he wasn’t their and when he did
acknowledge his present he made it seam like Dick was just another tool of his to use.

Red Arrow easily saw his friends discomfort at the situation and wanted nothing more than to
reach out to offer him some form of comfort. He might not be able to comfort Dick but he
could try and make sure he gets out of here without Deathstroke getting his hands on him.

“H-How much to... to let ‘im go free?” he questioned his voice raspy from the number of
beatings he’d been dealt since being in the hands of Ryder and before then his own personel
group of mercs.

The two elders paid him no attention however seeming to have already come to some form of
agreement if the handshake between them revealed anything.

As Ryder reached for what Red Arrow made out to be a set of keys from the jingle within his
pocket a silenced shot rang out followed by a thud. It took his concussed brain a second to
catch up with what happened and when he did he saw Ryder on the floor and Deathstroke
was reholstering his weapon.
“Don’t touch him!” Red Arrow hissed when the mercenary approached the chair Dick was in
knife in hand.

“Would you rather the little bird lose the use of his hands,” Slade chided not waiting for a
response as he brought the blade towards the little bird.

Dick felt cool metal brush against his face and heard Red Arrow curse and threaten Slade but
he didn’t react. He was afriad of moving, moving could cost him the use of his hands and if
he lost that then he’d never fly again. He had to fly, it’s the only thing that connected him to
his past, to his family.

He registered leather on his hand before the wire wrapped around his wirsts began to loosen.
It was only then did he open his eyes to see Slade was carefully cutting through the razored
wire to free him.

As soon as one of his hands were free Dick was immediatley clawing to remove the duck
tape from his mouth ignoring the sharp pain in his wrist. He struggled but was able to fee
himself of the obstruction and finally able to take full breaths but his pattern suggested he
was slowly edging towards a panic attack.

Knowing Deathstroke knew who Dick was he didn’t care now when trying to comfort his
friend while Slade continued to free him from the barbed wire.

“Dick, it’s okay, remember slow breaths in for three out for three,” Red Arrow tried to mimic
the pattern but with how his whole body ached it wasn’t the easiest thing to do.

As soon as the last of the wire was removed from the little bird Deathstroke was pulling him
from the chair, supporting his weight to keep him upright as the teen’s balance was off. He
saw the glassy look in the kids eyes, recognising it as the same look the teen had when he’d
dissociate. It’s why he wasn’t surprised when the boy leant into him further, his build being
similar to the bats, the little bird was most likely seeking protection without realising what he
was doing.

Seeing Dick within the merceanry’s grasp Red Arrow couldn’t help but fight aginst his own
restraints despite knowing it was pointless but he couldn’t let Slade take his friend. He might
not have been around but he knows what Deathstroke put his little brother through and he
refused to let Dick suffer through that torment again.

“You’re going to hurt yourself Harper,” Slade reprimanded adjusting his hold on the little
bird as he collected the keys from Ryder’s corpse. “I won’t have Grayson accuse me of not
upholding my end of the deal.”

Deal? There’s no way. Dick wouldn’t... After everything Deathstroke put him through he’d
never make any form of deal with Slade.

The archer stayed silent and just scowled at him but Slade was not detered by the look
knowing that the clone was in no shape to fight him once free. Even if the kid was in fighting
condition, he wouldn’t as not to put the litte bird at risk.
As soon as the cuffs were removed and he was free Red Arrow was standing instantly
ignoring how the haste movement jarred his bruised body.

“Let him go,” Red Arrow growled though his raspy breathing lessend the motion of his
words being threatening.

“Can you walk?” Slade questioned ignoring the archer’s demands. ”There is a vehicle
waiting and a safehouse prepared, can you make it to the vehicle or do I have to drag you out
as well.”

Roy looked at the mercenary incrediously. He wasn’t going anywhere with him and he
certainly wasn’t going to let him walk away with Dick. He spared a glance at his brother and
could tell that the younger teen wasn’t fully in his mind, he probably doesn’t even know
what’s going on anymore.

“You’re not taking him anywhere,” Red Arrow argued.

“I think you’ll find that I will be, in case you haven’t noticed he was here working for me,”
Slade responded once again readjusting his hold on the half-concious bird displaying the
clours in which he was wearing. “He went behind daddy’s back again and stole information
from him, of course the information he brought to me was everything I already knew, I was
merely testing to ensure he still knows how to follow orders.”

“He wouldn’t...”

“He did, he did because I assured him that you would be freed which you are, so I have no
issue with leaving you here to fend for yourself, my offer to accompany the little bird to the
safehouse was for his piece of mind given his current state,” Slade interrupted and he could
see from the minute change in the archer’s expression the kid believed his words true, which
they were.

Red Arrow didn’t want to believe it, he didn’t want to believe his brother would partner up
with the monster that had almost destroyed his life. Then again, he knows Dick and he knows
that his friend will sacrifice himself for those he cares about. It is a triat that is both admirable
and hated at the same time. He wasn’t there when Dick sacrificed himself during the days of
Renegade, when he had taken a bullet for Batman but he knows the story. Knows that his
brother wanted to die that day just to ensure everyone else would be safe.

“Lets go,” Red Arrow stated his tone void of emotion.

He didn’t think was a good idea to willingly go anywhere with Deathstroke but it was clear
that the mercenary wasn’t going to leave Dick with him. If he couldn’t free his friend he
could at least go along with him to ensure no harm comes to him. Maybe he might get an
opportunity to contact Ollie or someone to let them know the situation. He’d even go to Jade
if it meant Dick was away from Deathstroke.

His brother had sacrificed his conscience to save him and now Red Arrow was determined to
protect him more than ever.
 Help

Star City, June 13 th , 12:19PM

They arrived at the safe house without any further complications, however Dick had
remained zoned out the entire drive there. Even when they entered the apartment he remained
distant and wouldn’t move on his own accord.

Roy wasn’t in a position where he could help his brother move around so had no choice but
to allow Deathstroke to practically carry Dick to the couch that looked unused.

In fact everything in the apartment looked brand new as so Red Arrow presumed that this
place was more for show and was rarely used which is probably why Slade brought them
here without bothering they knew the location.

“You’ll probably want to sit down yourself before you pass out,” Slade gestured to the
armchair in the room before reaching for the younger teen’s wrist to assess the injuries caused
by the barbed wire.

While Dick may not have reacted to the mercenary touching him, the archer didn’t want the
mercenary anywhere near his brother.

“Don’t touch him,” he spat pushing himself inbetween Dick’s half-conscious form and the
killer. “Stay away from him.”

“If you want to explain to the bat why the little bird is dead that is fine by me,” Slade raised
his brow in challenge, he knows the bat has access to the trackers within the teen and if his
vitals start dropping he’ll be arriving sooner rather than later if the kid doesn’t have his
injuries looked at. “You saw the wire they restrained him with, and you can see the amount of
blood he’s lost already, he loses much more and...”

“You’re not touching him, I’ll treat him myself,” Red Arrow’s argument however was
unheard as his own injuries were catching up to him especially the concussion making him
dizzy as the room started to sway.

“You’ll be lucky if you’re still standing in the next five minutes, you’re concussed kid and
judging by the stance and shallow breathing, you’ve probably got some damage to you’re
ribs not to mention any other internal injuries Ryder and his men caused. As I said you want
to explain to the bat why the little bird is dead or unable to use his hands be my guest but I’d
rather my apprentice remain of use to me,” Slade countered easily pushing past the archer to
gain access to Grayson to check his injuries.

Dick heard the voices around him but he couldn’t make out what either of them were saying.
He was tired but he refused to sleep. All he could think about was losing the thing that
connected him to his family the most.

Flying...
He’d been bound and restrained many times in his life both as a civilian and a hero but never
had he been as afraid as he was now. The closest thing that came to it was the room but at
least with that he knew he’d have his senses returned to him after. He’d panicked when he’d
realised it was razors digging into his flesh from the wire, but the true panic came when
Deathstroke voiced his fear. It was only intensified as he was at Slade’s mercy and he could
have done anything to him, he could have made him agree to become his apprentice once
again if he freed him without causing damage to his hands.

When the leather of Slade’s glove touched his hand all Dick could think of was how much he
wanted Bruce, his dad and how he regretted pushing him away. He wanted it to be the leather
of Batman’s glove holding him, it would have offered reassurance that he’d be okay.

It was after that everything started to become fuzzy and things started to blend together.

He remembers Red Arrow calling out to him. He remembers the pain in his chest, a pain he
always felt when overwhelmed and panicky especially when Slade was around. He
remembers something supporting him and the feeling of wanting Bruce returning. He thinks
he may have leant into the person holding him but he isn’t quite sure. He remembers it being
similar to his dad and not caring who it was, it was as close to Bruce as he was going to get in
that moment...

“Dick, can you try drinking this for me please,” Red Arrow requested, he was now sitting
with the younger teen’s head in his lap and holding a water bottle to his brother’s lips.

The archer refused to leave his friend’s side and refused any help from the mercenary keeping
a close eye on him as he wrapped Dick’s bleeding wrists. He was suspicious when
Deathstroke handed him the two water bottles after collecting a first aid kit so thoroughly
checked to ensure the seal hadn’t been broken and they were not tampered with. Even after
he was still weary, but Dick was still unresponsive and he needed his friend to come back.

A part of him wished that Wally was here, annoying as he was the speedster knew more when
it came to their brothers mental health struggles than he did. He knew all the ways to help
Dick relax or in cases like this come back to himself. At one point in time he may have been
just as good as Wally after all they had all known each other the same amount of time but
since learning he was nothing more than a clone, he felt useless in everything he did. He
remembers the basic simple methods that could bring Dick’s mind back to the present but he
knows with his brother sometimes those methods are not enough.

He was so focused on trying to coax the younger in drinking, he hadn’t registered the
mercenary finishing his task of wrapping Dick’s mangled wrists until the man was placing a
burner phone in his free hand. He looked at the mercenary confused at first until he notice the
man was heading for the door.

“Remind the little bird I’ll be in touch,” Slade said before exiting the apartment leaving the
two teens alone.

Red Arrow wasted no time in dialling someone he knew would be able to get provide a quick
evac, given they were in his city. He was thankful that even though he was calling from a
different number Ollie still picked up on the first ring.
“Roy?” Oliver questioned as soon as the connection went through knowing that the kid was
the only one who had this number.

“Y-yeah,” Red Arrow answered forgoing correcting his former mentor on the name as he
refused to use the name that he had stolen from someone else. “Listen, I know you’ll want an
explanation on lack of contact but... Are you in Star?”

“About to meet with Dinah,” Oliver answered concern laced in his voice. “Are you hurt? Do
you need help?”

“Would you...” Red Arrow faltered off as he swallowed his pride, that didn’t matter right
now, Dick did. “I need an evac, might be best you bring Canary, I... I’ve got Dick with me
and he isn’t doing to good.”

“Okay, j-just hang tight and I’ll be there as soon as I can, d you know where you are?” Oliver
questioned speeding up in his car to get to Dinah quicker so they could go help the two teens.

Red Arrow responded with the street name he noticed on a sign while Slade drove them here
as well as the building the were in and which apartment.

“Okay, I shouldn’t be long,” Oliver replied typing the address in his GPS so he could set off
as soon as Dinah was in the car. “You said ‘Dick’ was with you.”

The younger archer knew what this was, Oliver wanted clarification that was Dick and not
Nightwing at his side. If it was Nightwing back up would take longer as both the elder heroes
would need to suit up but with civilian Dick Grayson they should be fine coming as they are
given the neighbourhood wasn't a populated one.

“Yeah, you... You might want to give Batman a call, this involves Deathstroke,” Red Arrow
responded grimacing at the thought of Bat-Dad's reaction to his eldest son’s current
predicament.

“I’ll try contacting him, but...” Oliver faltered off, it wouldn’t be fair to share this over the
phone but Roy need to know what’s been going on since his last check in. “There’s a
possibility he won’t answer any calls, he... He’s been hard to reach since... I’d rather have not
told you like this but Robin, he’s dead.”

The red head’s brain short-circuited for a moment because that’s not possible, Robin couldn’t
be dead. However, it could explain Dick’s current state and he’s not talking about the
dissociative episode. He was sat in that room for hours waiting for his friend to wake up and
had a lot of time to take note of how rough he looked. If anything Dick looked worse than he
did and he’d been held captive for however many weeks and was beaten practically everyday.

“Just try, Dick’s... He needs someone,” Red Arrow finally replied and with a final
acknowledgement from his former mentor the line went dead as the waited for help to arrive.
“I’m sorry I haven’t been here for you Dick,” Red arrowed said when he could no longer
stand the silence in the room.
There was a feeling of guilt that settled on his shoulders. This was the second time he hadn’t
been there for his brother in his moment of need, to busy with his hunt for his original self.
His brother needed support and he hadn’t been there but Dick was one of the first to offer his
support when he learned what he was. Dick had never judged him for it, he just excepted him
and treated him the same as he always had.

“Tati?”

The archer’s attention was once again directed to the younger teen using his lap as a pillow. It
was the first word Dick had said since waking up in that room and yet Red Arrow had no
idea what it meant. He knows Dick has a tendency to revert back to Romani when
experiencing nightmares or after a panic attack but he had failed to pick up the language,
another reason why knows Wally would have been better for Dick in this situation.

“It’s okay Dick, you’re safe,” Red Arrow assured and silenced followed once again, Dick not
saying anything more.

It was almost half an hour later when there was a knock on the apartment door and despite
not wanting to leave his brother’s side or move because of his own aching body the teen
archer was able to get himself up to answer without disturbing his friend.

As soon as the door opened Oliver was cupping his face, checking him over for injuries and
bombarding him with multiple questions.

“I’m okay, Dick needs help more than I do,” Red Arrow managed to pull himself free from
his former mentor and gestured to the couch where Dick was. “He’s been unresponsive for
over an hour, he muttered something before but it wasn’t English as far as I can tell.”

Dinah waked past the two archers having been the one to help Dick with his mental health
over the years, she was the best one to try and help him now.

The teen didn’t react at all when she brushed her hand along his face, not even with miniscule
eye movement showing how far gone he was. Noticing the stained wrapping round his wrist,
she checked his pulse on the point in his neck to find it elevated compared to what it should
be.

“Batman didn’t respond but we alerted Alfred to the situation and informed him we’d take
Dick back to Mount Justice and if he could reach Batman to send him there,” Dinah
explained standing back to full height. “Where you able to make out what he said?”

“Tati I think, I’m going to presume it’s Romani,” Red Arrow answered earning a nod from
Canary.

“It means dad,” she clarified with a sad smile knowing the teen was most likely asking for
Bruce at the time. “We should get going, he needs proper medical attention and so do you.
Oliver could you?”

The blonde archer didn’t need her to finish the request as he moved closer to the younger teen
and carefully picked him up from the couch, not commenting on how the kid leant into the
hold he had on him.

“Roy are you okay to get to the car yourself?” Oliver questioned wanting to make sure his
own kid was taken care of still not caring that the teen before him isn’t the one he originally
took in.”

“Yeah, I’ll be fine,” Red Arrow responded already starting to vacate the apartment not
wanting to be in Deathstroke’s space any longer.

He should be explaining what happened to the two of them but right now he just wanted to
get out of there having a strong feeling that Deathstroke was still lurking nearby. He’ll give
them a run down of what he knows as soon s he can be certain his brother is safe and th
mercenary can’t get to him
 Fear Of Loss

Happy Harbour, June 13 th , 4:39PM

When the Arrow team arrived at Mount Justice with a civilian Nightwing, Batman was
already there and immediately took the teen from Green Arrow’s arms to take him to the
med-bay. Oliver followed guiding his former partner to the medical area as he too needed
medical attention for the injuries caused by his weeks of captivity.

While he was being checked over fully by Canary, Red Arrow finally explained everything,
at peace now his friend was out of danger. He was thankful Ollie had a pair of sunglasses in
the car as the glare Batman had given him would have be even more intense than it was.

It was few hours after they first arrived and Batman had yet to say a word to him the entire
time, his full attention being on Dick whom they had to sedate as when he’d started having a
severe panic attack and would have hurt himself otherwise. He’d lashed out, refused to let
anyone get close and had it not been for M’gann they probably wouldn’t have been able to
get him sedated. It wasn’t something they’d typically result to, but they didn’t have a choice
but to ask the Martian to delve into Dick’s mind to get him to calm down enough they could
inject the sedative.

“How is he?” Wally asked as he entered the med-bay distracting the archer from the younger
teen in one of the other cots.

Knowing Batman would not answer Red Arrow addressed the speedster, “Still asleep, did the
others tell you what happened?”

“Yeah, what about you, doing okay?” Wally responded trying not to think of what M’gann
had said she saw in his little brother’s mind.

She didn’t go into details or specifics partly out of respect for Dick’s privacy but mostly
because it pained her to see the images that were in his head. She told him physically just
before he entered the medical wing that she knows. I could have been a number of things, but
Wally knew what she was referring to, it wasn’t hard if to figure out considering she was only
addressing him with that information rather than explaining it to every like she had with the
other things she felt. She’d seen the memory of the fight Dick had with Bruce after Jason’s
death was revealed to the former; she’d seen what Batman did to the first Robin.

“I’m fine, little sore but it’s not the worse I’ve had,” Red Arrow answered turning his gaze
back to the younger teen. “Ollie told me about...” he faltered off not wanting to mention that
in front of Batman especially now while Dick lying in a medical cot.

Picking up on what the archer was about to say and knowing why he paused the speedster
simply placed a comforting hand on his older brother’s shoulder as a show of comfort. He
knew as well that mentioning anything about the second Robin while Bruce was around
would create unneeded tension therefore stayed silent in regard to that topic.
“Na či žav (No I won’t)” the mutter coming from the other cot distracted the two red heads
from their previous conversation.

Dick was shaking in his sleep, his face showing clear signs of fear and pain. He was
mumbling in another language which they all knew was his mother tongue but soon those
mumbles turned to whimpers and quickly became cries.

Before Batman could event ry to offer comfort to his son, Wally zipped across the room to
coax his brother from the nightmare. He hadn’t meant to react as he did but knowing what
Bruce did to Dick and the fact the man hadn’t removed the cowl, he didn’t want the younger
waking up to the disappointment of the bat.

Bruce saw the brief scowl on the red head and stepped back despite how much he wanted to
be there for his kid. He knows why the teen was keeping him at a distance, Dick doesn’t
deserve to wake up to the cowl which Bruce was using to keep his fear and worry concealed.
He also had suspicion that that Wallace knew more about the recent arguments between
himself and Dick, the details he’d rather no one knew and regretted deeply. That suspicion
was practically conformed when Bruce had questioned his son after Deathstroke confronted
him in Gotham and he accompanied Dinah to Blüdhaven when she was supposed to have a
session with Dick.

“Dick, it’s okay, you’re safe, you’re at the mountain,” Wally comforted carding through the
raven locks of his brother.

Dick flinched at the contact but as the familiar voice washed over him he relaxed into the
touch. Eventually his eyes were slowly opening a hint of releif at seeing his best friend at his
side until he remembered...

“Red Arrow,” he shot up panicked looking around the room.

Seeing the younger’s reaction the archer got out of his own cot and was at Dick’s side in a
matter of seconds. He didn’t need to say anything as the younger teen relaxed just seeing him
but when his gaze settled on the shadow in the corner his tension returned.

“C-could you guys give us a minute?” Dick requested sensing his father would want to talk in
private considering his actions of downloading files from the Bat-Computer without
permission.

“You sure?” Wally questioned quietly not liking the idea of Dick and Bruce being alone
together while the dark knight was clearly in one of his moods spurred on by his
overprotectiveness.

Dick sighed but nodded, he’d rather get the argument that was sure to ensure out of the way
now rather than have another headache to deal with later on if they were talk later.

With a quick reassuring squeeze to his shoulder both the red heads vacated the medical wing.
Red Arrow was supposed to remain for monitoring given his injuries, but he figured he’d get
away with disregarding the suggestion for a moment while father and son dealt with their
issues.
As soon as the red headed duo had left them alone Dick’s anxiety levels increased further
despite him being the one to ask they leave. He couldn’t meet Batman’s gaze, not with the
cowl.

“I need to talk to my dad,” Dick stated breaking the tension filled silence.

“Dick...”

“Please, I-I can’t do this like...” Dick cut in closing his eyes to conceal the tears hating how
he sounded so much like a needy child.

Now understanding the teens request Batman locked the med-bay doors and then removed
the cowl knowing that now they wouldn’t be interrupted especially by anyone who didn’t
know who they were behind the masks.

Dick heard the movement and knew his father had done as he needed him to, but he was still
afraid to face the man, he was afraid to see whatever was reflected in his eyes. He had asked
for the privacy and yet he was terrified to speak, it was as if his throat was closing up and all
control he had was gone.

He hadn’t even realised how close his father was until the leather lad had encased his shaking
one slowing the movement. He wanted to pull away, but he also needed the contact to keep
him grounded and maybe there was a part of him that wanted to pull himself closer to the
armoured form of his father so he could be held. The child in him wanted his dad to wrap him
in the thick dark cape as he had when he was young and reassure him that everything would
be okay.

The deep breath from the elder man made him flinch ever so slightly not because he was
afraid Bruce would hurt him but because of the disappointment he knew would follow it.

“I need you to talk to me,” Bruce’s voice held no lace of Batman in fact it was the soft
fatherly voice Dick had begun to miss. “I won’t interrupt, but I need you to tell me exactly
what happened.”

After his discussion with Clark earlier, he knows this is needed, he has to let his son come to
him at his own speed. He saw what happened when he let Batman take over and worrying
turned to an interrogation, it overwhelmed the boy something he didn’t need to be anymore
of. It won’t be easy for him to not interrupt or ask questions especially when it comes to his
son’s injuries even though he already had answers for what caused them.

When he noticed the tears falling from the closed eyes of his kid, Bruce had to restrain
himself not to wipe the tears away knowing the reaction it could cause after what he did to
the teen.

“I...” Dick tried but cut himself off when the choked sob followed.

That brief moment of escape was all it took for the dam to burst completely, and everything
followed. Everything he’d been trying to hold in since being told his baby brother was gone
came out. If Dick was being honest with himself, he was releasing things from before that
moment as well. The stress from the mission, the worry because Red Arrow had gone off the
radar even if it wasn’t entirely uncommon, things with Bruce, everything that had caused him
some amount of stress, it was all coming out now as he sobbed his heart out.

He felt arms wrap around him, strong and warm, the small of leather and Kevlar washing
over him. Even part of the cape had enveloped him like it had when he was younger, giving
him the escape from the world around him.

When the pain and hurt finally came pouring from the teen in the most heart-wrenching sobs
he’d heard from his son since the night his parents died Bruce could no longer sit there and
watch. He knew that the boy may fight against him or pull always but he wrapped his arms
around him in the same protective embrace he always used for his boys, even though one was
no longer with him.

The teen did nothing but cry even when no-more tears fell from his eyes the cries didn’t stop.
It was like a knife to the chest for Bruce hearing his son like this knowing that some of the
pain his boy was feeling was because of him. Clark had told him it sounded as if Dick was on
the verge of a breakdown, but he had never expected it to carry so much. He knows his son
has a habit of keeping things to himself, locked away to not burden others but he didn’t
realise the extent of how much the kid kept inside.

It was a while before the cries finally stopped, Dick having exhausted himself and yet even in
sleep he still hiccupped from the continuous sobbing. Bruce was careful to lie the boy back
down in the cot ensuring the blanket was tucked around him tightly similar to how he would
tuck his son in when he was younger. He brushed the hair clinging to the teen’s sweat and
tear-streaked face before planting a soft kiss to his temple.

He knows Clark is still here waiting, he’d come with him to the mountain when they venture
to Star to locate Dick themselves had been interrupted by Alfred contacting the Kryptonian
having not been able to reach him with the information on Dick.

When hearing what had occurred Bruce hated himself even more for having not investigated
sooner knowing the company Dick was most likely with which was known confirmed. His
son could have easily been killed by the man Deathstroke had him meet or worse in Dick’s
mind had his capability of flight taken away. If the barbed wire that had been used the teen
jostled even slightly the nerves in Dick’s hands would have been severely damaged and made
it, so he’d never fly again. Bruce knows his son well enough to know that would be a worst
fate in Dick’s eyes because it would mean losing the thing that connects him to his family the
most.

Certain his boy was as comfortable as he was going to get him Bruce unlocked the door for
the med-bay and whispered the Kryptonian’s name so he knew he could now enter.

Not even a minute passed before a soft knock was heard on the door followed by Clark
announcing his presence before he entered the room.

“How is he?” Clark asked his eyes instantly settling on the boy who made him an uncle. “I...
Everyone heard.”
“I shouldn’t have left him on his own,” Bruce muttered reclaiming his seat at his son’s side
and taking his hand once more. “I swore I’d protect him.”

“You have protected him; you’ve done the best you could...”

“Have I?” Bruce questioned his voice now holding a hint of hate however it was aimed
towards himself rather than the two occupants of the room. “I brought him into this life,
allowed him to alongside and against those that could easily cause him severe harm or kill
him. I was able to keep him mostly safe during that, however there are two people I will
never succeed in protecting him from and that is where I fail as those two people have caused
him the most harm.”

“Bruce...”

“I tried everything to make sure Deathstroke was never near him, never had the opportunity
to hurt him or take him again but nothing I did was every enough. That’s where the second
person comes in, the one that I can’t protect him from without causing him the worst pain,
rejection...” Bruce continued paying no notice to the alien trying to interrupt him with
reasonings. “I’ve tried to keep him safe from me, but I know that all that has done is caused
him more pain because no matter what he tries to make it seem as me pushing him away is
something he has done wrong. When I tried to stop him being Robin it was never about
rejecting him or pushing him away...”

“I know, and so does he, he told me that much himself when he came to me after the incident
not knowing what else to do,” Clark tried once again and with the other man’s silence he
continued. “He knows why you did what you did, he knows the fear you hold for losing
people because he harbours that same fear the difference is the way you both deal with that
fear. Dick will do whatever he can to ensure that loss isn’t an option even if it means putting
himself at risk and I know you’ve done similar, but you also distance yourself from those you
care for so when something does happen it will hurt less.”

Bruce sighed at the alien’s explanation and when it came to mentioning how his son would
sacrifice himself if it meant everyone else would be safe, he squeezed the teen’s hand gently
as images from a night where he done exactly that surfaced.

“I’ll bet he has the same conclusion for the fight after...” Clark continued faltering off at the
mention of the second Robin but from Bruce expression it’s clear that the billionaire knew
where he was going. “After what you told me of the discussion you tried having with him
when you first went to apologise, he knows that you weren’t in the right frame of mind, you
were grieving and still are. I believe he knows deep down anything you said or... did wasn’t
because you hate him, it because you were terrified of living through that experience again. I
also know that’s why you said what you did after the explosion. Every argument the two of
you have had since he stopped being Robin has never been about hate towards the other but
because you both are terrified of losing each other because for a long time your all each other
had. It was just you Dick and Alfred for eight years.”

Alfred had been telling him similar for the past few weeks, ever since he told his surrogate
father what he’d said to the teen after the warehouse explosion. He’d told him that those
kinds of things are bound to come out in the heat of the moment but if you regret saying them
then it means they were not said to intentionally hurt the receiver however often they still
would hurt. He said the regret comes from the fear and Bruce knows that’s one thing Clark
and Alfred are right about, he is scared, he is terrified of losing his son.

Since Jason that fear had only grew and that’s why he hadn’t informed his eldest and had his
youngest bured as soon as possible. He wanted to forget because the pain he felt from losing
his second son was even worse than the pain he had when he lost his parents. At the time
through the glasses of grief keeping Jason’s death unknown to Dick was his way of
protecting his eldest as he didn’t want his first son to suffer the same pain he was at the time.
He knows now that his actions only caused a worse kind of pain because his decision to keep
what occurred to Jason a secret had also caused the argument and...

He’s hoping he can get Dick to talk to him. He won’t force it and if his son doesn’t want him
around, he will leave after ensuring someone would be always keeping eyes on the teen. He
won’t force it but he needs his son to talk to him so he can try and be the father he needs to be
instead of the detective he has been on their past few interactions. He wants to be the safety
net his kid needs, that his son deserves. Unlike Bruce who does not deserve the light and
safety net that Dick Grayson provides him with.
 We'll Catch Him When He Falls

Happy Harbour, June 14 th , 7:12AM

Wally had not left the side of his two brothers after returning to the med-bay when Batman
left saying he’d check back in the following day. Dick had remained asleep since the bats
departure but after hearing the sobs emitting from the room during his and Batman’s time
alone he wasn’t surprised. He and Barbara had expected him to break and had been waiting
for it for the past few weeks which is why they had been going to his apartment frequently
before he vanished again.

When Barbara had told him that Alfred had informed her of Dick returning to the manor, he
had felt a slight amount of relief but also fear for his friend. Part of him was hoping Dick’s
return to his childhood home was him finally reaching out for help but he also worried
because of what had happened previously with Batman. His concern only worsened when
Barbara told him that Dick’s return to the manor was the doing of Deathstroke and that Dick
had vanished soon after.

As soon as he learnt that piece of information, he raced to Dick’s apartment only to find it
empty, which he should have expected, but his worry overruled the logic.

Since he has been stopping at the cave everyday hoping to hear that Dick has shown up, but
he never did, up until yesterday that is. Two of his brothers had been found yesterday and he
was so grateful that for the most part they were okay. They both had injuries but nothing life
threatening which to him was the most important thing.

In fact, Red Arrow hadn’t even been concerned with his own injuries, his focus was entirely
on their unresponsive little brother who had spiralled into a panic attack once they brought
him into the med-bay and started setting him up on an IV. It wasn’t until Dick was fully
situated after being sedated did the archer finally let someone look him over and treat his
injuries. However, the elder refused any pain relief not wanting to go to sleep until he was
certain Dick was okay, the only thing he had excepted was some ibuprofen after a lot of
pushing from both Green Arrow and Black Canary. He took half the dose recommended but
it still worked to relief some of the pain even if it was only by a miniscule amount.

When Batman had left, he had given clear direction that Dick was not to left on his own so
Wally had taken it upon himself to be the younger teen’s personal watcher and the other
senior members of the team would take turns in joining him as they all know what their little
brother was like.

The junior members of the team had been given strict orders to not enter the med-bay under
any circumstances whilst their co-leader was an occupant to give Dick the privacy he’ll need.
Everyone knows he’d hate anyone seeing him as he is, especially the newer members who
look to him as second in command, he’d probably hate the others seeing him so vulnerable
even though they had seen him in similar states before.
He’d been left to Dick-sit on his own for a while after Batgirl left around an hour ago needing
to get back to Gotham before her father got home from work so he wouldn’t suspect
anything.

He wasn’t alone much longer as a soft knock on the door announced his next visitor before
they entered the room.

“I figured you were both hungry seen as though Batgirl text me saying you’d both been up all
night,” Artemis said entering the room with a slight disapproving look on her face.

She held up a bag containing a few foods containers and thermos as she approached the
speedster kissing his cheek before taking the seat next to him.

“If I were to have slept, he could have tried sneaking off,” Wally stated taking the thermos
from the female archer when she handed it to him appreciating the steaming coffee it
contained.

“And your excuse? After the brief report I got from Dinah sounds like you could use the rest”
She turned to the clone archer eyebrow raised in question as he didn’t have a valid excuse
given, he was injured and wouldn’t be able to put much effort to stop their idiot friend from
leaving.

“When he first woke up the first thing, he said was my name, so if that happens again its best,
I’m awake to prove nothing happened,” Red Arrow answered accepting the container of food
from the blonde. “I’m fine anyway, nothing major and the most concerning thing was the
dehydration which as you can see,” he gestured to the IV he was on, “is being taken care of.
In fact, I’ve been given the all clear to leave after twenty-four hours of monitoring. Ollie
wants me to take a week off to recover but after that I’m free to head back into the field so
long as I take it easy.”

Artemis rolled her eyes as but didn’t argue instead retrieving another food container from the
bag she had brought for the other red head. When she tried to offer a container to the
speedster however, he simply shook his head which was unnatural for him especially
considering as fair as she was aware the last time, he ate was breakfast the previous day.

“You can’t survive on just the caffeine, you need to eat something,” she tried to push. “With
your metabolism it’s vital you eat something especially if you want to be of any help when he
wakes up and if he tries to make a run for it.”

Wally sighed but took the food container knowing the blonde was right. He knew his tank
was empty but the heart-breaking cries he had heard from his little brother had decreased his
appetite to non-existent even though he knew his body needed the fuel.

“How is he?” Artemis asked now that both red heads were finally eating.

“He hasn’t woken up since Batman left which considering how bad things sounded isn’t
surprising. M’gann had to ease his mind back a couple of times when he started having
Nightmares and wouldn’t wake up, she didn’t say what they were about, but it’s probably the
usual. Batman is going to have Dr Thompkins come today to check the injuries on his wrists
just to be certain there’s no nerve damage which there doesn’t seem to be, but he wants to be
certain,” Wally explained as he picked at the food his girlfriend was insisting, he ate. “Gar
and a few of the others heard him when... Kaldur had to give them a brief explanation of
things so they knew why they couldn’t come in here to visit like they normally would one
anyone’s injured... He didn't go into details just gave them enough to know why Dick was
well...”

“I never realised how bad he was...” Red Arrow began still feeling guilt for not being there
during the days of Renegade. “I mean I know you all gave me the run down when I came
back for a while but... Has it always been this bad or is it worse because of...”

Artemis and Wally looked at one another and then turned to the unconscious teen on the cot
debating if they should share more with the male archer or not. He has the right to know
given his friendship with Dick and the fact they were both in the company of Deathstroke
less than twenty-four hours ago. However, neither wanted to remember the back then,
especially the speedster who had seen the worst of Dick’s mental recovery after Deathstroke.

“It’s about the same, maybe now it’s a little more manageable but that’s probably got
something to do with him pushing everyone away to try and deal with everything himself,”
Wally began grateful when Artemis’ hand slipped into his to stop him shaking and when she
removed the still full container of food from his other hand so he didn’t drop it.. “You’ve
known him as long as I have, so know about the struggles before Deathstroke but after... there
was a moment when I started to believe that he wouldn’t recover from it. Maybe he never
truly did, and he got better at hiding it. I suppose the big difference between now and then
is... Well, I’m hoping this is a difference because he hasn’t said anything but given how he
hasn’t said anything these past few weeks who knows, but... Back then during the worst of it
until J’onn got involved and added reinforcements to his mental barriers after helping to
mend them is that he used to hallucinate and hear Deathstroke’s voice. When he started
getting better, he... For him they were so real, there’s be times where he heard or saw
something and thought it had actually happened. It was so real for him that he’d actually try
to defend people against a figure that wasn’t there. He didn’t know what was real or not
sometimes, that was the scary part...”

He knew it was bad back then, but he never expected that. To be so far gone in your own
mind that you don’t know what is true reality and what is a figment of your imagination.
Wally said scary, Red Arrow would say the more appropriate word world be traumatising.

“I don’t think that would have improved much had it not been for J’onn...” Wally felt Artemis
squeeze his hand in reassurance as tears began prickling his eyes as he remembered when he
first learnt of the voices and hallucinations, how they constantly tormented his little brother.

“What matters is it did get better because we were all there to help when we could,” Artemis
picked up where the speedster paused adding the last bit to ensure the male archer knew that
while he may not have been there physically, he still helped when he could, like when he got
Jade involved. “And we’re all going to be there for him again whether he likes it or not.
We’re not going to let Deathstroke get to him again...”
“I wish it was that easy,” Wally muttered, he wanted to believe that they could protect Dick
from the mercenary, but efforts so far had proved otherwise and then when they do try and
protect the younger teen Slade threatens him further to deter them from doing anything unless
they wanted Dick to be put further in harm's way.

“While he’s here it is easier,” Artemis stated matter-of-factly. “I know we can’t keep him here
and I know that eventually Deathstroke will reappear again but so long as we keep reminding
Bird-Boy that we’re going to be there not matter what, then he has no choice but to let us
catch him when he falls.”

“What about when Deathstroke does reappear because he will, he said to tell Dick he’d be in
touch before he left us in that apartment,” Red Arrow questioned, he too knows the rules the
mercenary plays by and therefore would rather avoid anything that could get his brother hurt.
“None of us can fight him if Dick is around...”

“I know, same as Dick can’t avoid a fight with him without putting us in danger, we might
not be able to physically help with any fights that commence but we can help with the fall out
to make sure any mind games or manipulation Deathstroke tries doesn’t work,” Artemis
answered.

There conversation was cut off by a gentle knock on the door, followed by Kaldur’s voice
before he entered the room a weary look on his face as he ensure the door was fully closed
behind him.

“Kaldur?” Red Arrow questioned easily noticing the the uncomfortableness of the Atlantean.

“Numerous video files have somehow been sent to are system, we are unable to trace the
source but given recent events I believe we can predict who has been able to bypass our
encryptions to send the files,” Kaldur explained his usual neutral and calm voice holding a
hint of worry as his gaze settled on the youngest in the room.

“You two go, I can keep an eye on him for a bit and even if he does try anything you’ll all be
in the main sector so it’s not like he’d be able to waltz through the Zeta Tubes without any of
you noticing,” Red Arrow said earning a nod from the female archer however the speedster
seemed hesitant to leave. “He isn’t going anywhere West, pretty sure Batgirl injected a
sedative into his IV line before she left just so he’d sleep longer.”

Wally eventually nodded and stood to follow the other two heroes knowing that's exactly
what Barbara had done before she both could tell that this was probably the first decent
length of sleep he'd had in a while. He was still hesitant to leave Dick’s side but trusted that
Red Arrow would be able to alert them before the younger could even make an attempt at
leaving again.
 Why Did He Never Tell Us?
Chapter Notes

This was supposed to be out a few days ago however the laptop I order came faulty so
had to send it back and reorder a different one which means I'm still stuck using the
ancient one that I've had to endure using for the past two months. Also being home with
the family limits the time I get to myself where I can write as I end up having to help
look after my youngest sibling.

I will be back at my home at the end of the month when I will hopefully have a fully
operational computer and have my full free time back which will put updates back to as
frequently as I like.

Happy Harbour, June 14 th , 8:17AM

Other than the two heroes still in the med-bay the other heroes that made up the original team
had gathered in the caves main sector where the holo-computer was located. They knew
they’d be fine viewing the footage as the only newer recruit that currently lived at Mount
Justice was Garfield, as Garth and Tula would return to Atlantis when not needed as they
both still attended Sorcery school. Troia would usually stay at the cave however she had left
yesterday with as she was training with Wonder Women and therefore spent the night with
her. Barbara was also not in attendance as she had only recently left after being on
Nightwing-Watch all night with Wally and Roy.

M’gann and Conner were already stood waiting, Kaldur having informed them of the files
being sent before going to the med-bay to get Wally and Artemis.

The Martian was visibly distressed but that wasn’t too surprising because of these videos
contained anything that the heroes think th might then there is a possibility she has already
seen some of what will be shown having been in Dick’s mind. They all knew she had seen
certain things in his mind over the years, things that Dick would definitely not want them to
know about. She had never shared anything she saw with them, never in detail anyway, but
she did tell them whenever she saw something about Deathstroke. M’gann had never
intentionally delved into Dick’s mind to seek out those memories or fears however they had
seeped through his mental barriers during times when he was struggling you keep them up.

“M’gann?” Kaldur questioned fully understanding the alien's discomfort as he too like the
rest of the teen’s was uncertain about revealing the footage that had been sent through.

“It’s fine...” She nodded chewing on her bottom lip as she decided to warn them what the
footage may show.
“We shouldn’t do this,” Wally stated he knew the most out of them all (except maybe M’gann
as she had viewed some of Dick’s memories) the things their little brother had suffered
through at the hands of the mercenary and would rather not witness it any more than he had
too.

He was the only one to have seen the scars Deathstroke had left on the younger teen,
specifically the brand mark that was burnt into Dick’s chest resting over his heart. It may be
covered now and fully healed but he’ll never rid that image from his mind from the first and
only time he saw it. He didn’t want more images of his brother’s pain from the mercenary to
be forever engraved into his mind like how that scar was melted into Dick’s flesh
permanently.

“He wouldn’t want us to,” Wally added, even though everyone already knew that much.

“While I agree with you, we unfortunately do not have a choice,” Kaldur began pulling up
the message that was sent along with the files.

Wally and Artemis read the text their stomaches churning at the implied threat knowing it
would be carried out if the files were sent by who they think they were.

Then again, it was almost certain that Deathstroke sent the videos given the use of the name
‘little bird’, it could be a coincidence but like Dick they know that, that word rarely lines up
with the mercenary.

“He gets hurt no matter what,” Artemis mumbled squeezing the speedsters shaking hand that
was still in hers.

“Do you think we should contact Batman?” Conner asked which was odd as usually he
wasn’t one to make such suggestions.

“We probably should but...” Wally started glancing back towards the med-bay where his
friend slept. “We can’t, Nightwing’s gonna hate knowing we’ve watched this, but I think it
will be worse if Batman does. You know how they’ve both been recently and after what
happened during the mission you had in Blüdhaven it’s probably best to leave Batman out of
this for now.”

That decision however did not matter as the Zeta Tube started whirling and announced the
designation of the dark knight.

“Recognised Batman 02.”

As soon as he had materialized Batman noticed the speedster sending him a glare for leaving
Dick unsupervised until he noticed the display of the holo-computer.

“Explain. Now,” he ordered approaching the group of teens taking over the console to begin
running a trace trying not to show any emotion despite having read the message that was still
on the screen and deducing who had sent the files
Kaldur told the vigilante what he had told Artemis and Wally earlier, then proceeded to
explain that they had already tried to trace the signal from where the files came from and
found nothing.

“Have you reviewed it?” Batman questioned having also come up empty handed with the
trace, a mild growl laced in his voice.

“No,” Kaldur answered not saying they were discussing whether or not to inform him before
they did so.

“Good, you are all to return to the medical wing and I will review the footage,” Batman
instructed waiting for them to leave.

The younger heroes however remained where they were. Dick won’t want them to see what
the videos may show but they were sent to the mountain for a reason and therefore they all
felt like the threat would carry out if it had not been them to watch them. They might not
know how Deathstroke works as well as Dick, but they do know that he’ll figure out if it was
them who saw the videos and if he learns they didn’t then he may very well carry out the
threat towards their little brother.

“That was an order not a suggestion,” Batman growled his anger though not fully directed at
the teens growing when they didn’t leave.

“With all due respect Batman, we cannot risk the threat given being carried out if the sender
of these files figures out that it was not us who reviewed them,” Kaldur explained taking
leadership of the situation for the team.

Batman was able to supress the sigh of fustration that threatened to escape at the eldest teen’s
words knowing that he was right. He hated admitting when others were right but he knew full
well in this case not following the Atlantean’s advice to allow the team to remain could put
his son at risk. Dick had already been though enough the past few weeks alone and he was
going to do anything he can to prevent anymore harm coming to his boy. He just wished that
the hurt his boy was feeling wasn’t also caused by him.

He didn’t say anything in response to the younger hero as he prepared the footage for
viewing his jaw clenching when he read the message with the implied threat once more
before the screen was taken over by the video and he pressed play.

Simliar to footage the mercenary had sent in the past the video statred with a blank screen not
allowing anything to be given away to those viewing. It wasn’t long before the muffled
scream sounded, a muffled scream that still haunted the dark knight.e knew what was going
to be shown and yet he couldn’t get the video off the screnn now it was playing.

The teen’s all made their own shocked expressions when the dark screen finally displayed a
younger version of their brother restrained to a chair scolding hot metal pressed against his
chest. It wasn’t hard for them to realise what was happening, they knew of the mark even if
they had never seen it. Wally had to avert his gaze from the screen being the only one aside
from Batman having actually seen the brand scar left on his best friend’s chest, he didn’t need
to see it being forced onto him as well as hear it. Artemis easily noticed his uneasiness and
directed his head to her shoulder seeing how his eyes were squeezed shut to hide the tears
that were no doubt building as they were in everyone. M’gann was unable to hold her tears
back as she melted into Connor’s arms, she had never seen this imagery within Dick’s mind,
but she’d heard the muffled screams and now she knew what they were linked to.

None of them had chance to fully compose themselves before the next video was playing this
one featuring the speedster of the group and Bruce instantly knew this was recorded with the
camera that had been hidden in his son’s room.

Hearing his voice Wally looked back at the screen wishing he hadn’t as he remembers this
night vividly. It was not long after Deathstroke first became an issue and after the mercenary
revealed to know his brother’s identity. Batman had allowed him to visit, and he’d been left
with Dick while he was sleeping. He’d started having a nightmare, one that was bad enough
he reverted to speaking Romani in his sleep. With Bruce in the cave and Alfred having gone
down to the kitchen he was the one that had to try and rouse Dick from the night terror. He’d
tried the light methods first but as his friend began struggling and not waking up, he resorted
to trying to shake him awake in attempts to snap him out of it. It worked but it also resulted
in what would have been a broken nose had he not been granted accelerated healing along
with his powers.

“Wally,” Artemis whispered feeling him shaking with what she presumed was fear. “Maybe
you should...”

“No,” interrupted sticking to the quiet tone knowing what she was going to suggest. He’d
lived through that, and Dick had lived through everything that was going to be featured in
these videos he wasn’t stopping, not now. “I’m staying.”

How he wished he took the out when he had the chance as the next video was even worse.
Once again it featured Dick awaking from a nightmare however this time no-one was at his
side. Wally knew him well enough to see the signs of his friend coming down from a panic
attack as a dissociative episode set in and one glance towards the dark knight told him he
could see it as well but there was something else there as his jaw tightened further as if he
knew what was coming.

As soon as his son left the bed and sat at the desk which was just in view of the camera Bruce
knew what was coming. He remembers Dick telling him about not realising he had done
anything until it was too late, and he already had several wounds in his arm. If he hadn’t had
adopted Ace, there is a chance his son may have kept going and he could have lost him that
night as it was the dog that brought the teen back. Seeing the look on his boy’s face when he
finally realised what he’d done broke something in him, because it was an expression of
disgust and shame that could only be directed at himself.

With the video that just finished playing through Bruce shouldn’t be surprised that the next
one to start was one that also still haunted him, having been sent it himself when Dick was
still in the hands of Deathstroke.

It was footage from when the boy had pressed a gun to his head, ready to take his own life
something the father had never shared with anyone aside from Superman who had seen that
particular video at the same time he had. He hadn’t even told Alfred of it or ever mentioned it
to his son that he knew what he did, never directly at least. He’d implied when Dick referred
to almost breaking their code, having almost taken a life but he never admitted fully to
knowing that he knew his son had been close to pulling a trigger on himself.

Despite knowing that his friend was alive in the other room Wally muttered, “don’t you dare,
don’t let him win like that, don’t let him be the reason you...”

Artemis squeezing his hand once again cut him off reminding him that this was old footage,
that Dick was alive and somewhat okay in the med-bay.

As the hands of their brother began shaking with the weapon still in his hand none of the teen
heroes could watch afraid that the trembling would set the trigger off and their friend, their
brother would be lost to them. It didn’t matter that they knew this was during the days of
Renegade and that they knew Dick was alive, it was horrifying watching someone they love
and care about so close to taking themselves away from them. None of looked as they heard
the slam of something against the table nor when Dick began sobbing afraid that the bang
was the gun going off.

It wasn’t until the prolonged silence did Kaldur and Connor finally face the screen once
more. Artemis focusing on consoling Wally and M’gann keeping her face buried in Connor’s
embrace.

“I can’t believe he...” Connor started faltering off not wanting to even think about what he
just saw. “Why did he never tell us? We could have helped?”

The question was rhetorical, yet Batman still gave an answer, “fear that he would no longer
be excepted and in his mind, it was him betraying the oath he took when he became Robin.”

Wally’s head shot up at that realising what Batman meant and yet it felt so wrong to think of
the situation like that.

“When we we’re at Lex Corp and we tried to convince him to come back, when he begged
for us to leave because he... wasn’t worth it,” repeating his friend’s words hurt as he will
never believe Dick isn’t worth saving. “He said he almost took a life on his own, he didn’t
mean a civilian or anyone like that, he... He meant himself.”

“You can’t be...”

“Kid Flash is correct,” Batman stated keeping his gaze on the now blank screen not wanting
to face the teens who were all most likely in some form of emotional distress. “When...” no
he didn’t want that image in his head along with what he just witnessed for a second time.
“During his recovery,” even starting like this, flashes of that night on the roof with his son
bleeding out in his arms from a bullet he took for him flashed in his mind. “He tried to
explain to me what he meant when he had said that, but I wouldn’t let him. I... Deathstroke
had sent the last video that played before, I saw it the day we faced them at Lex Corp, I had a
feeling that was what he was referring to and his recovery proved my suspicion. I didn’t need
him to explain himself, so I never brought it up and I expect the same from all of you.
Nothing you have seen is to be mentioned to him.”
Whilst they may not want to just continue as if they hadn’t watched their little brother be
tempted to put a bullet in his head, they knew it was the right thing to do. If Dick wanted
them to know he would have told them directly and not in the form of a way to get them to
abandon him with Slade back then. It was going to be hard not to bring something up, but
they wouldn’t, it was in the past and it wouldn’t be fair to drag it back up only to cause Dick
more pain.

Before any of the teens could agree to Batman’s instruction another alert sounded on the
computer drawing their attention back to the screen. Rather than a video this time a date and
time were sent along with an address. Following the clear meeting instructions was a brief
message of ‘I’ll be waiting little bird’ telling them who the sender was as if it wasn’t already
obvious.

Batman resisted the urge to punch the console instead turning around to head for the med-bay
his goal to ensure his son did not learn of the ‘invitation’ he had been sent. At least not yet.
Bruce knows he’ll have to tell the boy but given the date was for in a few days he was hoping
to clear the waters between them a bit before then and holding off one telling him would
hopefully buy him a little time to prove to his son how sorry he is for what happened between
them.
 Fall Apart

Happy Harbour, June 14 th , 10:43AM

When Batman entered the med-bay he found the wounded archer sitting on the edge of the
bed where his son lay trying to rouse the teen from a nightmare.

Seeing the dark knight enter Red Arrow thought best to move out of the way to allow Batman
to coax Dick awake given that the man had almost a decade of experience in doing so.

“How long has he been like this?” Batman questioned locking the med-bay doors and
removing the cowl seen as though the archer knew who he was behind the mask.

“A while, it’s eased slightly but he hasn’t woken up,” Red Arrow answered limping the few
steps back to the medical cot set up for him.

Bruce observed his son for a moment, listening carefully to the mumbled Romani in attempts
to work out the visions his boy was being plagued with. He carefully brushed the tears that
had escaped from closed eyes that were felling down the teen’s cheeks as he continued
flinching and shaking.

“You’re okay Dick,” Bruce comforted his voice dipping into the soft protective tone reserved
for his eldest. “It’s over, you’re safe.”

A few more minutes passed with Bruce continuing to offer comforting words to his son
before the sapphire eyes started to flutter.

Everything was fuzzy at first, the remnants of the nightmare lingering at the front of his mind
but as soon as he registered the level stroking his face, he pulled away having not realised it
was his father and not Slade.

“Dick?” Bruce spoke noticing the slight confusion but also fear on the teen’s face as he
started to realise where he was.

“Tati?” Dick questioned his voice hoarse from sleep and confusion.

Bruce had to supress the urge to embrace the boy when his son referred to him as that, having
not heard the teen call him dad for a while. The only time Dick had referred to him as a
fatherly name since being fired as Robin was the previous day when he asked to speak to ‘his
dad’ and not the cowl. It’s why Bruce had removed the cowl when he entered the medical
wing despite there being someone else present. He could have asked the archer to leave but
he wasn’t all too concerned given how his son’s whimpers were flooding his ears focusing his
attention on his boy. His priority was his son, he didn’t care if the red head saw him
vulnerable as long as Dick was okay.

“You’re okay, you’re safe,” Bruce assured grasping the boy’s hand squeezing tightly.
Feeling the hand in his elicited a relieved sob from Dick as he could feel the leather
surrounding his appendage. It wasn’t real he could still feel... but could he still move them.
He squeezed Bruce’s hand back to test praying that nothing was out of the ordinary. His grip
was weaker than usual, but he was hopping that down to the exhaustion that was still
weighing in him despite having just woken up.

Sensing what the teen was doing Bruce reassured him once more, “there’s no damage, any
weakness you’re feeling will be from exhaustion and residual effects from the pain
medication and sedative that have been administered. There isn’t going to be anything long
term aside from some scarring I promise.”

“Y-your certain?” Dick questioned between relieved tears wanting to be sure as his nightmare
suggested otherwise and it had seemed so real.

“I promise you’ll still be able to do everything you could after you’re healed, if you want the
extra assurance, we can have Leslie do her own tests,” Bruce calmed the teen still holding
back on embracing the boy not wanting to overwhelm him in anyway.

Dick seemed to relax more trusting his father’s promise even though they hadn’t been getting
along recently. He knew that despite their current issues Bruce wouldn’t lie to him about
something like this, at least he hoped his father wouldn’t. After all he didn’t tell him about
Jason’s death, so maybe he would withhold the truth from him about his current condition as
well.

No. He’s fine. He can feel Bruce’s hand in his and was able to squeeze his hand back, if he
had nerve damage, he wouldn’t have been able to do either. He can see the IV in his arm so
the idea of being given pain medication was reasonable especially considering the aches he
had been feeling constantly the past few weeks had dulled. He can trust himself that the
weakness in his grip is from the medication just like Bruce had told him.

“I’m sorry for taking off... again,” Dick mumbled averting his gaze from his father.

“I know,” Bruce said not allowing any anger out in his tone taking the advice both Alfred and
Clark had been pushing on him recently.

He had to listen. He had to let Dick talk and avoid interrupting even if the need arises. He has
to put Batman away and remain as the father Dick needs and wants. It’s just hard because he
hates hearing his son hurt, he hates knowing that he’s the main cause for all the suffering his
boy has endured over the years. If he had allowed Dick to be taken in by a normal family,
then maybe...

Why does he even try to think about that what if? He knows what would have happened if
Dick was taken in by someone else, the boy would be dead. Zucco would have succeeded in
killing him when Dick went looking for him in search of justice for his family. If Zucco
hadn’t killed him Bruce was almost certain Dick would have remained in the juvenile centre
because it is very unlikely anyone in Gotham would have taken ‘pity’ on the orphaned gypsy
circus boy. That was something he hadn’t realised a large problem until after Dick entered his
life. He had never been exposed to the words of racists fully until he took the boy in. Either
way Dick would have been a lot worse off had he not taken him in. Still, he’d always
question whether it was the right thing no matter how many times he came to the same
conclusion.

“I know you’re sorry and I understand why you felt the need to leave the way you did,”
Bruce continued wanting to prove to the teen that he wasn’t going to show any anger and
would listen to anything he needed to say.

Sensing that the talk between father and son was going to reach something more personal
Red Arrow quietly vacated the medical wing not that him attempting to be silent made a
difference when it was Batman who he was trying not to disturb. He received a mild glare for
disturbing the moment but that was soon followed by a thankful smile which was odd coming
from the dark knight. The archer understood the meaning behind it however given that it was
rare Batman allowed himself these weaker vulnerable moments in front of others.

As soon as they were alone and Bruce heard the door lock from the outside he continued, “I
should be the one apologising to you...”

“Why? You’ve been right about everything. I am reckless, and... idiotic, I’ve not been
thinking straight and because of that I could have...” Dick interrupted speaking the words
he’d forced himself to believe over the past few weeks as it made the rejection from his father
easier.

“Dick, I-I never meant what I said. I was worried about you, worried for you, I thought...
When I found out he was back, I thought I was going to lose you too. He’s hurt you so much,
tried taking so much from you and I... I was afraid he’d take you. I couldn’t do it, not again. I
almost lost you once because of him and after... after Jason the f-fear he’d succeed this time
was too much. I’m sorry allowed my fear to turn into anger, I should never have...” Bruce cut
the teen off, he knows he should listen, but he can’t allow Dick to berate himself with the
words he had used in a moment of terrified weakness. “I know I’ve hurt you, with both my
words and actions and I am so sorry. There’s no excuse for the way I’ve treated you
especially these past few weeks. I will never forgive myself for what I have said and done to
you but... but I’m hoping you will give me a chance to show you how sorry I am. I-I can’t
lose you... I can’t lose you Dick.”

The tone in which Bruce spoke told Dick the man was being completely honest. It was very
rare his father ever sounded like this, and it was clear he was trying to hold back tears if the
sheen of his eyes was anything to go by. Dick could count on his hand the number of times
he’d personally heard Bruce sound so close to breaking one of those times being just after
Deathstroke and Renegade when he had taken the bullet to save his father.

“I-I’m sorry for what I said to you after Jason and for pushing when you tried to apologise for
what happened, I was just...” it was his turn to apologise and break now, he’d been keeping
everything for so long and the explosion of tears yesterday hadn’t been enough of a release.

He'd been keeping everything buried. First, he was hiding it from his friends and family, then
he had to keep himself in check because of Slade’s random visits and then the week he’d
spent stuck with the mercenary. He’d always struggled with letting people in but over the past
few weeks he'd become even worse than Bruce at sharing. Bruce would usually at the very
least talk to Alfred but Dick he hadn’t let anyone in and had been harbouring everything
allowing it to eat away at him.

His boy breaking down into the same heart-breaking sobs as he had the previous day wavered
any restraint Bruce had as he sat on the edge of the medical cot and pulled the teen close
embracing him. He felt his son melt into his arms, and tightened his hold on him wanting to
protect him from everything that has ever caused his son pain both physical and emotional.
His actions have no doubt led to his child’s breakdown but for now he was going to hold him
together. He’d be the safety net his son needs and has acted for him ever since he took the
boy in all those years ago.

“I’ve got you, it's okay,” Bruce comforted as he began rubbing soothing circles into the
sobbing teen’s back whilst maintaining his protective embrace on the boy. “Just let it out, let
yourself fall apart, I’ll be right here to hold you together,” he repeated the words he said to
the teen when Dick’s uncle passed knowing that it would encourage him to have this
breakdown and release everything, he was holding in.

“I-I’m s-sorry,” Dick cried as he melted further into Bruce’s arms.

At this point he didn’t know what he was apologising for, but he just needed to say it. He
needed his father to know that he was sorry for any and all trouble he’d caused over the past
few weeks. He was sorry for willingly going back to Slade. Sorry for arguing. For not
listening. He’s just sorry. He’s sorry he’s a failure and a screw up and a burden and...

“Shhh, it’ll be okay, I promise, it’ll be okay,” Bruce hushed his words but didn’t stop his tears
allowing them to soak into the leather and Kevlar of the Bat-Suit.
 Going Home

Gotham City, June 14 th , 11:32AM

Once Dick had regained some form of composure Bruce had suggested they return to the
manor so anything Dick needed to get out could strictly remain between them. The teen had
hesitated in abiding by the suggestion but eventually agreed remembering how Superboy had
out of worry once listened to conversations between Bruce and Leslie after Renegade. He
knows Conner hasn’t done anything like that since but just in case he’d rather be somewhere
no one would be able to hear them.

Before leaving Wally did another check in not entirely trusting Bruce after learning what the
man had did. He assured Dick that if he couldn’t be there or something happened all he had
to do was call and he’d come get him. He also had asked the younger teen multiple times if
he actually wanted to go with his father or if he was being forced into it, which Dick assured
it was his choice. Reluctantly Wally allowed him to go with Bruce not before ensuring the
dark knight knew that if anything happened to his best friend the man would be answering to
him.

Upon their return to the cave Alfred was waiting for them and in a brief moment of
informality embraced the teen relieved he was for the most part physically okay.

“It’s good to have you home Master Richard,” Alfred had greeted ensuring to give his charge
a thorough look over assessing the visible injuries and signs of Dick’s current low mental
state.

“Thanks Alfred,” Dick returned the embrace having got over the slight shock of having the
elder man initiate it. “Sorry for...”

“It’s alright young sir, you’re safe now and that’s all that matter,” Alfred interrupted pulling
back and giving the boy another once over ensuring he had noted everything visible knowing
Bruce would pass on anything unseen later.

Dick couldn’t help the shuddering sigh that released at that statement knowing that the butler
wasn't entirely right about him being safe now. He knows Slade will want to meet again; he’ll
want one final test before taking off for an undetermined time again. Dick won’t be safe until
Deathstroke has completed this round of the never-ending game between them. He wishes he
knew when the battle would be as it might lower his anxiety levels which were currently
through the roof having increased the moment he stepped through the Zeta and emerged in
the Batcave.

He’s trying so hard to prevent himself shaking, losing some of the restraint when Alfred had
hugged him which had caused him to flinch. Neither Bruce nor Alfred commented on it
despite Dick knowing it was an obvious movement which he was ashamed of. Alfred has
never hurt him and yet he still reacted. He wouldn’t have been so off put by his reaction had
it been caused by Bruce given the last time they were in the cave together but Alfred... It
stung that his mind had associated his surrogate grandfather with danger and if it hurt him, he
can only imagine the sadness Alfred would be feeling.

“Richard?” Alfred questioned squeezing the teen’s shoulder lightly.

Dick blinked a few times to clear the fuzziness that had clouded over his mind and as things
started to come back, he found he was half leaning into Bruce’s arms, his father keeping him
upright.

“I think it’s best you get some rest, we can talk later,” Bruce advised taking more of the teen’s
weight to help him upstairs to his room.

Unable to open his mouth, his tongue feeling too heavy to speak Dick nodded in agreement
and allowed his father to assist him up to his room, Alfred following closely behind.

He closed his eyes again trying to remember what was going on and when he reopened them,
he was in his room, Bruce easing him into bed. He could have sworn they had only just
started on the stairs in the cave...

His thoughts were cut off as a straw brushed against his lips coaxing him to drink which he
did. He took a few sips before two tablets were also handed to him which he took without
argument suddenly too exhausted to even care.

Bruce was gentle as he eased his son fully into bed once Dick had taken the pain killers
noticing how the boy’s body was seemingly working on autopilot as there was a glassiness in
his eyes. It wasn’t long before the clouded azure eyes began to droop, and the teen fell into
the realm of unconsciousness. Seeing his son looking peaceful in sleep Bruce sighed in relief
as he knows with the mercenary around Dick’s sleep would most likely be non-existent and
plagued by night terrors.

“I think it’s best I stay with him this time,” Bruce said tucking the boy in like he used to
when Dick was younger, and things were easier.

“How has he been doing?” Alfred asked as he closed the curtains to dim the lighting of the
room.

“You just got a glimpse of his struggles,” Bruce replied brushing the stray hair from the
teen’s face. “We haven’t had a proper chance to talk, we’ve tried but... He’s struggling, things
are always bad when Deathstroke appears but this time... It’s not just Slade this time and I
haven’t been there for him. When I’ve spoken to him, I’ve never let him explain or talk to
busy arguing with him, berating him...”

It was very rare Bruce allowed his walls to fall as he was now, when he did however it was
only around the butler, his eldest friend and his pseudo-father. There had been the odd
occasion with Dick but usually he’d still repress things given the teen was his son and
shouldn’t have to face the same issues he does. He knows that supressing his issues as he
does, is the reason for Dick acting similar. If anything, the boy is worse when it comes to
keeping things bottled up due to his need of seeking approval.
Dick is always seeking to impress the others around him fear that if his performance declines
in any way he will be rejected by everyone. That had started when he sought to impress
Batman had gotten worse during his time on the team being the youngest and one of the few
without any powers. After Deathstroke the fear of never being good enough grew worse and
had never reduced despite how much time had passed.

Slade had spent months trying to break the boy, making him believe his words that he was
useless, unworthy, a burden. When Dick returned to them, it was hard to get him to believe
anything else and even when he was deemed recovered enough as no-one would have ever
fully recovered for the horrors Deathstroke put the young boy through, a part of him still
believed the mercenary’s words. It’s why he closed himself off. He was different after
Renegade. They had all expected it, but it hurt that when they saw Dick it wasn’t the same
one, they lost. He became more focused, no longer pursuing the childish antics he was known
for. It was rare he would spend time doing anything that would count as leisure, spending all
his free time studying and training, doing everything he could to improve his skills. Dinah
had said it may be a phase going through as part of the recovery process, trying to get himself
in as set routine but he never grew out of it, never fully anyway.

Eventually he started interacting a little more socially with the others, but it was only those
who knew what had occurred. When the team acquired knew members and Jason came about
Dick remained distant from them to avoid them learning of his past and his eyes his failure
and betrayal.

He was the only one who saw his time as Renegade as betrayal to the team, no one else
blamed him for anything that happened during that time. He’d been pushed to the edge of
what he could handle, he was tormented for months, and no-one was able to do anything to
help him without putting him in further danger. He may have kept secrets, but it was never to
hurt anyone, it was to in his eyes protect them something he always wanted to do. Slade
manipulated him, isolated him, tried breaking him and very nearly succeeded. The team, the
league and Bruce were powerless to stop it.

“Deathstroke has sent details for a meeting, two days here in Gotham,” Bruce sighed not
knowing how to explain the damage of his son’s mental state without knowing the severity. “I
haven’t told him yet and I’d rather not but...”

“If Richard does not attend it is likely to put him in further danger,” Alfred finished where the
billionaire paused sadly glancing at the boy he had helped raise.

“He’ll be hurt either way, but him going minimises the risk of his life being in danger,” Bruce
said running his thumb over his son’s bandaged hand. “I just hope that after this, Slade will
disappear again and leave him be because I don’t think Dick will be able to cope with much
more.”

He can see it. If Slade continues this round of his game much longer Dick won’t come back
from it. A part of him fears that if this does continue, he’s going to lose his son, something he
himself won’t survive a second time. If he was being honest with himself, he doesn’t think
he’d survive if he had lost Dick back then, when his boy...
He had never expected to feel this way about the boy when he first took him in. He had never
expected to come to love him like a son as he did. At the time he hadn’t thought he’d been
capable of love, but Dick had shown him otherwise, brought him out of the depths of the
darkness that Batman had created. Dick Grayson become his light in the darkness, as Alfred
had once called the boy, Dick Grayson was his lighthouse guiding him back, ensuring he
didn’t cross the thin line he’d set himself.

Alfred placed a comforting hand on his shoulder, “I am certain Richard will overcome his
troubles, he has many there to support him even if he doesn’t tend to allow them to.”

“Do you ever wonder if things would have been easier for him had it been someone else to
take him in?” Bruce asked, something he always questioned even though he knew the
answer.

“No,” Alfred answered an understanding tone in his voice. “I know you question whether it
was right of you to take the lad in and allow him to join you in your nightly activities and
despite my reservations at first for the latter I believe strongly that without it he may not be
with us anymore. Had you not told him the truth of who you are and in turn taught him how
to fend for himself... Well, I fear that the man who took his family would have eventually
succeeded in doing the same to him and I know that is also how you feel. I know that you are
scared of losing him which is why you are questioning yourself and why you have always
questioned yourself since the night you saved him from drowning and told him the truth. I
also know that fear has only grew since he moved out and started protecting his own city,
becoming worse when he told you his plan for a career. However deep down I believe you
know that without you Richard would be a lot worse off, you may have said in the past he
saved you, but you also saved him.”

Bruce sighed, not knowing how to respond for Alfred always knew what to say to make him
understand his own emotions. He should have known the butlers answer would be the same
as his, Dick would be in a worse position had Bruce never took him in. And yet Bruce will
still question himself on that front again in the future, like he does whenever his son is
hurting in anyway.

“Thank you, Alfred,” Bruce finally said withholding another sigh as he looked back at his
boy. “If you wouldn’t mind, I think I need some time alone with him.”

“Of course, Master Bruce, should you require anything I will be in the kitchen,” Alfred stated
squeezing his pseudo son’s shoulder once more and looking back at their boy before
departing to prepare a light lunch expecting neither of his charges to have an appetite when
the young master awakes.

Alone Bruce allowed a single tear to fall as he watched over his sleeping son, swallowing
past the lump in his throat as he apologised to the boy again even though he knew it would
fall on deaf ears. He just wanted to stop his boy from hurting, wanted to take his pain away
and protect him from the monster that refused to leave him be. He’ll never forgive himself for
allowing this to happen. Maybe if he had been more understanding Slade wouldn’t have got
back into Dick’s head, forcing him back at his side once more. The mercenary had not only
put his son’s life at risk but almost caused the teen to lose the most important thing to him...
He could have lost the ability to fly, the thing that kept him close to his family. If Dick had
lost that... Bruce hates to imagine what that would have led to, part of him fears that with the
teen’s current mental state, the depression, anxiety and PTSD all flaring... No, he can’t think
like that but after seeing that video a second time he can’t help it. That video not only
reminds him that Dick has been tempted to do such a thing but also that one journal entry the
boy had let him read after Renegade when he was using the notebook to track his feelings

‘That whole night was a blur, before the pain everything is a little clouded but after, I
remember every detail up until the darkness took over. The pain was excruciating at first but
then I felt the wind rushing past me, similar to that of flying and I realised that I wasn’t going
to make it. I’m ashamed of this but I was relieved, happy knowing that. If I died it meant
everything would stop and hopefully everyone would be safe from me. I wouldn’t have to
answer to Deathstroke again never have to call him M... That again and he couldn’t hurt me
or make me hurt my family anymore. I know dying would have hurt the others especially
Bruce and Alfred but at least they’d be safe, and I could have died knowing that I saved them
all, I died saving my dad. It’s not that I necessarily wanted to die but the doing so would stop
it all. As a felt the wind rushing past me during the fall I felt one thing, free. I was free”

Bruce doesn’t regret saving the boy from falling but he regrets that he wasn’t able to keep
that feeling of freedom in his son. He regrets not being able to keep him protected from the
mercenary. He regrets not being a better father, the father Dick needs. However, he is going
to do better, he needs to better because otherwise he might lose his son for good, and he
refuses to let that happen.
 Long Overdue Talk

Gotham City, June 15 th , 5:17AM

Dick had stayed alseep all yesterday after returning to the manor which Bruce had fully
expected with how exhausted the teen had looked. It was proably the best thing for him,
especially with how he had almost collapsed yesterday during a dissociative episode, he
needs the rest.

Bruce hadn’t left his side wanting to ensure he was there should his son have any nightmares
or in the chance he woke and tried taking off again. He suspected the latter was unlikely but
Dick had already ran twice and he wasn’t going to let him go a third time, not while Slade
was still out there waitng for him. He hadn’t even gone on patrol last night, even ignoring the
signal trusting Batgirl to handle whatever the situation was while he remained with Dick.

Thankfully the situation wasn’t one of the usual Gotham rogues and was intel for a drugs
shipment coming in at the docks. Bruce knew that Barbara was skilled well-enough to take
care of the issue, which she had successfully, knowing he had other priorities. He had
informed her of him bringing Dick to the manor and like the speedster the day before she
gave him a warning, hers coming off more serious than the other red head due to her not
being scared of his bat persona.

He fully understood their worry for the younger of them, they know what he did and
therefore are making sure that doesn’t happen again. Bruce has promised himself it won’t.

A light knock on the door brought the interrupted the billionaire’s thoughts and Alfred
entered a tray in hand with a steaming mug of coffee

“I suspected you had not slept and figured you could use a caffeine boost,” the butler stated
passing the mug off to Bruce and picking up the syringe that was also on the tray.

“Thank you, Alfred,” Bruce replied watching his pseudo-father administer the injection.
“Pain medication?”

“And an antibiotic, an infection is the last thing he needs,” Alfred stated removing his glove
once the medication was administered and bringing his hand to the clammy forehead of the
teen. “Mild fever I presume but with monitoring he will be right as rain in no time, physically
that is.”

They both held back the sigh at that statement knowing that even when the physical wounds
healed the hurt will still be there for their boy, mentally. They know that it will be difficult at
first to get Dick to come back around, that he’ll likely remain withdrawn but both of them
would be there to help.

They didn’t get to discuss much more as the light touch on his face seemed enough to rouse
the teen even though Bruce had been holding his hand all night.
“Dick?” Bruce questioned as the boy stirred eliciting a whimpered groan from the teen.

It was another minute or so before sapphire slowly opened meeting the watchful eyes of his
guardians.

He tried for a weak smile, not sure if it even came off as everything felt numb and heavy. His
head was aching, but he’d gotten use to that by now, having had a constant headache since
Slade showed up at his apartment that first night. It wasn’t as bad as it usually was, so he
assumed he’d been given some sort of pain relief and if he’d been out for a while most like
and intravenous type. The thought of a needle made him shiver, though he wasn’t sure if he
actually did.

“How are you feeling?” Bruce asked after a moment of silence having allowed the boy
minute to remember where he was.

“O-Okay,” Dick answered his voice hoarse from sleep and disuse.

A second later Bruce was helping him sit up and something cool was brushed against his lips
which he registered as a straw. He took a few slow sips of the water, not wanting to overdo it
as sitting upright had led to the discovery of his stomach churning and caused his head to
start spinning.

Unfortunately, those few sips seemed too much for him to handle as he suddenly felt the burn
of bile rising up his throat before he expelled it onto the sheets having not been able to react
quick enough to reach the trash can at the bed side. He felt Bruce’s hands on him, on on his
chest supporting him the other rubbing circles in his back as he continued gagging but
expelling nothing more having barely eaten the past few days.

After a few spluttering coughs and the nausea fading Dick managed a raspy, “sorry” as he felt
Bruce manoeuvre him out of the soiled sheets taking all his weight as he picked him up.

“It’s okay,” Bruce reassured as he carried the teen towards the ensuite. “Let's get you cleaned
up.”

He felt himself being placed down on something cold which he soon realised was the edge of
the bathtub when he heard the tap begin running, Bruce still supporting him, so he didn’t
collapse.

His father then gently eased him out of the ruined t-shirt throwing the clothing item to the
side. Dick had to supress the urge to flinch when he felt his father’s hand brush along the still
healing bruises along his torso and Bruce had to resist the urge to question how his son had
acquired the injuries.

He knows where the injuries came from, he didn’t need to be a detective to figure it out. He
didn’t question the teen knowing the boy was already uncomfortable with him seeing the
marks and his unrestrained touch which had come from a place of concern and
protectiveness. He hated seeing any injuries on his kid and the not knowing exactly how they
occurred always worried him until he heard the story.
“Do you want help, or would you prefer I wait outside?” Bruce asked trying to keep the
shake of his voice a minimum.

“Stay,” Dick responded almost pleading.

Bruce saw the look in his eye, it was fear and he wanted nothing more than to take it away
the same as he wanted to take all the pain both physical and mental from his son.

“Okay,” Bruce agreed keeping his voice soft as he continued assisting the teen in undressing
and helping him into the tub.

He was silently grateful for his son requesting he stayed even more so when it was clear Dick
wouldn’t have been able to keep himself upright too long on his own. It wasn’t like they
hadn’t done this before so he knew Dick wouldn’t have asked him to leave out of pride, he’d
thought he might because of everything going on in his head and maybe wanting to be alone
for a minute.

They stayed silent as Bruce helped his son bathe, the former not speaking to minimise the
teen’s discomfort the latter just not wanting to. Bruce didn’t even comment when he noticed
the patch used to conceal the brand mark over the boy’s heart needed replacing, honestly it
was long overdue as it should have been done before he went on that month long mission.
He’ll have Alfred change it when Dick is next asleep, it will be easier for his son that way as
he won’t have to see it. He just wishes he could get rid of it permanently but due to its
location cosmetic surgery was a risk, there was also the ID risk but if it meant his son no
longer had that reminder melted in his flesh Bruce would take that chance of being outed.

After about fifteen minutes or so Alfred was lightly knocking on the bathroom door and
Bruce waited for the teen to nod before allowing the butler to enter.

Alfred only remained a moment handing the billionaire his robe as Dick didn’t have a spare
here having not stayed for a while. Bruce thanked the butler as the elder picked up the dirty
clothing before departing the bathroom informing them that fresh clothes had been laid out
for the teen.

After a few more minutes Bruce helped Dick out of the tub and into the much too large a
robe. Dick melted into the fabric, using the lingering scent of his father’s body wash to keep
him grounded and stop him floating into the place of his mind where there was no feeling.

Bruce took most of his weight as he guided him into the back into the bedroom sitting him in
the armchair he had previously been occupying as his bed was lacking sheets. He helped him
into the clothes Alfred had laid out which the t-shirt being on of Bruce’s as the things Dick
had left at the manor when he moved out were work out gear and formal attire, Alfred
knowing the teen wasn’t a fan of wearing tank tops ever since Renegade unless it was for
work out purposes. Bruce didn’t comment when he noticed that the sweats were loose on the
boy having already been able to tell he had lost weight over the past few months and
seemingly having lost even more since he came home from his mission which he wasn’t all
to surprise about. Whenever Dick’s mental health takes a decline his appetite decreasing is
the first to follow after sleep, so the weight loss was bound to happen.
“Are you feeling any better?” Bruce asked finally breaking the silence now his son was
dressed and a little more awake looking.

“Nauseas passed but still have a headache which has been a constant since he first showed
up,” Dick answered tiredly not having the energy to come up with any lie or half-truth.

“Alfred had given you some pain relief just before you woke up so we can’t give you
anything else for a couple hours but if the nauseas passed maybe, you ought to try eating
something, it might help especially if your blood sugar levels are low,” Bruce suggested
ensuring his tone didn’t make it seem as he was ordering the boy.

Dick wasn’t hungry in the least, but he knew what Bruce was saying made sense. The last
time he remembers eating was the morning of the meeting with Ryder and even then, it had
barley been anything. He'd had an apple and protein shake refusing to eat the plate of eggs
Slade had put in front of him not trusting the man in the slightest. That’s how that entire week
had gone, the mercenary would order food from the hotel’s restaurant for them, but Dick
never touched it sticking to the supplies they had brought with them having been there when
the food stuff was purchased and knew it wasn’t tampered with.

He nodded his agreement and took his father’s offered hand as he was helped to stand back
up, his legs a little uneasy from the dizziness and tiredness.

They reached the dining room where Alfred had already laid plates out for them having
expected the early breakfast after the billionaire finished his task of assisting the teen bathing.
As always when they knew Dick was in the midst of a depressive episode Alfred made the
teen a smaller portion ensuring he knew he was welcome for more should he still be hungry.

Dick didn’t eat at first, merely pushing the eggs around the plate still not having an appetite
despite knowing he needed the food.

“Wally called last night,” Bruce stated hoping a conversation would distract his son enough
he’d start eating as it had done in the past. “He wanted to know if you needed an extraction.”

“He’s just worried,” Dick muttered avoiding his father’s gaze knowing the man knew that the
speedster was aware of their fight. “I-I heard what he said to you... I didn’t...”

“I know you didn’t, I know you didn’t say anything to anyone but even if you had I wouldn’t
care, what I did was wrong” Bruce interjected still trying to ensure his son knew he was sorry
for their fight.

“Could you tell him I’m fine and I’ll call him in a few days, I-I don’t think I can speak to any
of them right now,” Dick requested finally taking a small bite of the eggs that had started
going cold not that he minded in his current mood.

“I suspected that would be the case and relayed that message last night,” Bruce replied
making sure he wasn’t actively watching the teen and keeping the small smile from his face
when the boy too the first bite of his food. “I’ve also spoken with Dinah, she said if you need
to talk, she’s free this afternoon.”
He didn’t miss the cringe at the mention of therapy, while Dick had kept it up, he knew the
boy wasn’t entirely fond of the sessions. He knew it came more so from the suggestions of
medication when he reached extreme lows which would be the case now. Dick had tried
going back on the meds for his anxiety and PTSD the first time Slade reappeared after the
whole fallout from Renegade. He didn’t think they’d work having tried them before when he
was first diagnosed but this time, he had a severe reaction. He was ill for weeks and when
that passed, he was even more of a shell then he had been, it was almost as if he was in a
constant dissociative state and the nightmares turned to sleep walking which had in the end
become dangerous as the boy had almost fell from one of the cavernous cliffs in the Batcave.
He would have had Bruce not returned from the Watchtower when he did. He was taken off
the medication after that incident and refused to ever go back on it.

“You don’t have to see her, I just thought it could help if it was someone else you spoke too
instead of me,” Bruce added so Dick knew the choice was his completely and it wouldn’t be
how it was at first when he the sessions were a condition for him to remain as Robin.

“Maybe in a few days if she’s available, I... I don’t want to be around anyone right now,”
Dick answered still only picking at his food and taking miniscule bites.

“That’s okay, but I was hoping you’d at least stay her for a few days,” Bruce used a tone that
made it seem like it was Dick’s choice even though he would much rather him stay here
where he could keep an eye on him. “If you don’t want to stay here, I understand but... I think
it’s best you stay with someone at least for a couple of days while you rest up a bit.”

“I-I hate to admit it but you’re right,” Dick agreed not making his choice of what he wants to
do yet as he isn’t entirely sure what he wants himself.

He knows Bruce’s right, that he’s better off staying with someone than being alone as it
would make him an easy target for Deathstroke again. He might not want to be around
anyone, but he knows it’s the safest thing for him. If he has to stay with someone, he figures
staying at the manor would be the easiest thing for him as the guilt of putting his friends at
risk by having him around was too much. He doesn’t necessarily want to stay at the manor as
he’d be burdening Bruce and putting him and Alfred in danger, but he feels safer here then he
would anywhere else aside from Mount Justice or the Watchtower.

“I’ll stay,” he finally muttered only now meeting his father’s gaze and noticing the sad smile
of the man.

“Thank you,” Bruce’s smile deepened a tad relieved that his son had chosen to remain at
home rather than go somewhere else.

He wouldn’t have blamed Dick if he had chosen to stay with someone else given how things
have been between them. He had half-expected Dick to as to stay with Wally or Barbara, he’d
even thought Dick would have rather gone to Clark then remain at the manor. If he had
chosen to stay with one of the others he would have understood completely after all some of
the younger heroes had shown they’d rather Dick not be in his company.

“I’m sorry for what I said, when you tried to talk to me, and I wouldn’t listen, after the fight
about... When I said all that stuff about you not needing to worry about me after I turn
eighteen...” Dick apologised not knowing where it was coming from but now, he’s started he
can’t stop. “I know you’ve always cared and always will even though it’s hard for you to
show it sometimes. And I also know why you came across so angry after the whole explosion
thing in ‘Haven, you were trying to get me to see how stupid I was being. You were right, I
was reckless and shouldn’t have gone off on my own, I should have followed orders but...” he
faltered off trying to collect himself as tears started to fall the barely eaten plate of food
forgotten about. “I-I couldn’t do it again; I couldn’t let him take anything from me again. I
did what I thought was right and I know it was a reckless decision but after Jason... I couldn’t
lose anyone else, and I know we weren’t exactly close but he was a kid, he continued in my
role and... and he was my brother.”

He’d never admitted that to Bruce. If he had ever talked about Jason, he’d refer to him as his
brother but he had never called him that in front of Bruce. The reason was that mild
resentment that still lingered even after he had excepted Jason as his brother that the kid was
adopted while he remained Bruce’s ward. There was a childish part of him that hoped by not
referring to Jason as his brother Bruce would see that he didn’t feel like a part of his life
anymore, however that was never the case.

“I didn’t want to be hurt by him anymore and the only way to stop that from happening is
keeping you all away, physical wounds heal but everything else...” Dick paused once more
trying to stop the sobs that were threatening to release, he’d broken down twice before
getting to say anything, he needed to keep going because if he stopped now he knows he
won’t give himself another chance.

As Dick continued Bruce stayed silent as he had promised his son he would. There were
instances he wanted to interrupt because he hated hearing his son berate himself and
apologise for things that didn’t need them but he stuck to the promise. He needed to listen
and when Dick was through speaking he needed to be there to pick up the pieces as he knows
this will break the boy down. He knows how hard this will be for the teen after weeks of
supressing everything and he knows that another breakdown will be inevitable. When that
breakdown happens he will be there to hold him together as he should have been from the
start.
 The End Is Near
Chapter Notes

Finally have a fully working laptop and am back at my university home so hopefully
will be able to get updates back on track.

I know I've not updated for a while however that will hopefully change now, I can
schedule my days properly now I don't have to work around the family. And I've also
been ill the past week which hasn't been fun but once again all clear now and will try to
get back to my usual update schedule. Thank you for the patience from you all.

Blüdhaven, June 15th, 11:27AM

Slade was packing up the safehouse he had been using in the little bird’s city for the past
month. As soon as he had left the boy with the archer in Star City, he had returned here
needing to tie up a few loose ends before his final confrontation with Grayson.

He’s done for now, pushing the boy any further could have consequences he would like to
avoid as it would result in years of wasted time and resources. He’ll be back again, once the
kids regained some more of his strength and will actually be of more use to him. The boy had
been useful in locating Ryder’s new hiding place but he would be little use as his Renegade in
his current state.

He knew when Ryder realised who the kid was he’d take him, it’s why he hadn’t let Grayson
disguise himself further than a false name and had William purposely located in Ryder’s view
with the newspaper that had Richard on the front page along with daddy. It hadn’t been hard
to fool Ryder into how he located his hideout, the man knew not to question him considering
what happened the last time they crossed paths.

Deathstroke had been exaggerating to the little bird of Ryder’s trust issues to ensure the teen’s
compliance to make sure he stuck to Slade’s plan. He hadn’t lied about the other man’s
paranoia and ruthlessness; he just made it seem more extreme than it was. Though Slade will
admit he had been shocked to see the restraints used on the bird and was displeased as it
meant he’d have to give Richard an extra day or so before confronting him the final time. It
had made killing the opposition more satisfying as it gave him a small payback for Ruder
damaging his property, luckily it hadn’t seemed as though the boy would suffer with any
permanent damage. If he did however Slade already has something in place to fix it though
he’d rather avoid that for now.

Deathstroke waited before sending the message to the heroes with the videos of the little bird
breaking and almost ending himself. He knows the boy had not shared details of their time
together and decided to do so himself. The two during Renegade’s apprenticeship and then
two moments that he knew would hurt the bird if he discovered his replacement family saw
them. He knows one of the easiest ways to hurt the little bird is to hurt or threaten those
around him.

They’ll be broken having seen how close they came to losing their so-called brother when the
former boy wonder was tempted to blow his brains out. And if the Bat has seen the clip
again, it will be reminder of how much influence the mercenary has over Richard.

He’ll tell the boy what he did when he sees him in two days on the roof of the building where
they first crossed paths those few years ago. Slade knows the heroes won’t bring it up to the
little bird they’ve seen his worst moments, his worst pain, it’ll be their way to protect him
from the grief that they know. It will be the final play on the boy’s weakness before he goes
off the grid to complete a job he’s been putting off.

Slade will also need to hand over the phone he had confiscated from the teen knowing that if
the boy were to have had it on him when meeting with Ryder it would have been destroyed.
The teen of course had protested at first until Slade placed a small tracker on the clip of the
orange tie the boy was instructed to wear that evening. Of course, Deathstroke didn’t need
that tracker given he still had access to the nano-tracers in the little bird’s bloodstream but
while the kid and the bat were still unaware of that fact, he wasn’t going to reveal anything.

Since he had the device in his possession, Deathstroke took it upon himself to go through the
contents to see if he could find anything of interest. It was rather boring at first, general check
in messages from his friends and colleagues, a few from associates of Wayne that also had
contact with the boy. He noted the call from a contact labelled ‘Uncle Clark’ that took place
the day he had forced the teen to attend the reservation with Ryder which intrigued him given
every other call during that week was ignored. However, it wasn’t until he looked through the
notes section of the phone did things become interesting. He’d found multiple entries from
the week Richard was with him.

They ranged in length, but the topic was always the same, the little bird’s anxiety and
nightmare troubles. The last entry was the night before the dinner with Ryder, a detailed
description of the nightmare Slade had heard the teen screaming from. He spent the hours
between leaving the two teen heroes in Star and his journey back to ‘Haven reading through
every entry. One in particular caught his interest which is what led to him deciding to send
those videos to the Junior Justice League.

It was dated exactly one year after Richard left his ranks, from the night he took the bullet
that was meant for the bat and almost died.

‘I finished another notebook; I told Bruce and he said he’ll make sure to get me one for
tomorrow considering it’s currently almost 3AM. Another nightmare one that woke Bruce and
Alfred because of how loud I was screaming. At least this one made sense, after all it’s a year
today since it all happened, since I got out. I’d like to say free, but I wouldn’t exactly call the
way I’m living free even if things are a lot better than they were. If I’m being honest with
myself, the only time I’ve truly felt that way was during the fall, after I jumped in front of
Bruce. I’d accepted what was going to happen and when it didn’t, I don’t know. A part of me
wishes Bruce was too slow to catch me and by the time Uncle Clark recovered he only had
enough time to get Bruce. A part of me wishes I had died that night, at least then everyone
would have still been safe, and I wouldn’t be living this charade. I don’t know what I’m
doing. It still feels like he’s nearby waiting to make a move which I guess I know he is given
he made another appearance three months ago but... I don’t know. I do know that if he ever
gets me back, I won’t be coming back. If he puts a gun in my hand again, I’ll follow through
because I refuse to live through that again. Just in case I already have letters written to those
closest to me. Babs, Wally, Alfred and Dad. They’re the ones that will need the most
convincing that, doing that is what I wanted to do. I’ve written less detailed ones to everyone
else because I know it will hurt them if I ever have to go through with it but the others, they’ll
need the extra reassurance that it was what I wanted. I’ve left them hidden in the secret
compartment in my desk at the cave, only Wally and Dad know about it, and I know that if it
were to happen, they’d find them. I’m just praying it never comes to that but if it does at least
I’ll be truly free from him, and they will all be safe.’

After reading that he’s glad he never left any weapons lying around during the teen’s stay as
he no doubt would have been tempted to fulfil that promise to himself. The only reason for
him caring if Grayson lived or not was due to the wasted opportunity should the boy perish.
He’d put a lot of work into his former apprentice and would hate to see the little bird’s
potential be wasted over something as stupid as him ending his own life. If the boy died in
action that would at least be dignified but suicide… What a waste. Slade may threaten to kill
Grayson, but he never will, the other heroes perhaps if they get in the way but Richard is
much more valuable than them. He will injure but he will not kill, not unless the teen does
something that makes him seem like a wasted project.

Some would say the boy wonder is already a waste of time as he has yet to return to his side
full-time like he had ensured the villainous society, the Light, that Renegade would return
should he have survived that night. There are some who remain patient, trusting him to fulfil
his word others such as the witch boy, Klarion, do not understand the meaning of the word.
Then again, since Deathstroke announced he would be acquiring an asset the Lord of Chaos
had been anything but patient.

The society does not matter to him. They pay well, yes, but the little bird is his and will only
be of use to them when he sees fit. Slade would be perfectly fine with keeping Renegade
under his watch at all times should he return, which Slade still believes he will in time. If
Wayne continues on the path of an abusive father, then the little bird will be so much easier to
convince on his next return. Who knows maybe Grayson will be his Renegade next time even
if that old note in his phone suggests otherwise.

“Everything is packed and ready to depart for Gotham,” Wintergreen announced as he

entered the study of their current haunt.

Slade faced his associate and nodded his approval picking up the weapons case he had
finished organizing which was the last thing that needed packing in the van.

“We will depart at sundown, that will give us enough time to situate before the Bat makes his
appearance and that's if he leaves the boy in care of Pennyworth,” Slade replied following his
associate down to the garage as they have a stop they need to make before departing the blue
bird’s city. “If he doesn’t appear tonight then I already have plans that guarantees him
separating from the boy tomorrow.”
“Care to share what that might be?” Wintergreen questioned, now growing tired of Slade’s
fascination of the boy even though he could admit himself Grayson was impressive.

“If he won’t leave Grayson to protect his precious city, he will leave him or the little bird will
sneak off on his own to protect someone they care about especially if there is evidence of that
person being in danger,” Slade explained smirking.

He’d saved the contacts in the teen’s civilian phone just for this reason, knowing that it is
very unlikely Wayne will leave the little bird without proper protection. He’ll target the
female bat and send evidence to the boy which will result in Richard coming to the rescue or
Wayne leaving Richard unguarded, either works. He’ll know which scenario will play out
thanks to the tracker he has on the kid, his preference being the latter as Slade suspects the
teen will be less likely to retaliate if it is the butler at risk compared to Batgirl. True the old
man may not be defenceless, but he isn’t in the same league as Deathstroke or even
Wintergreen for that matter.

They don’t expect much of a retaliation anyway, Richard will not be harmed, Slade is merely
having Wintergreen make one more delivery to the boy before their final duel. The package
being Grayson’s phone and a let’s say parting gift. He’d kept hold of this item for a while
never once doing anything more than clean it so it would remain in the same condition as it
was when the teen last held it. He had never planned to send it to the boy but given his recent
discovery let’s say it’s another test. There is one more item in the package that will most
likely make the kid break, one final video, a video that took some work to get given the
person who had access to it being incapacitated.

Wintergreen will make the drop tonight and the in two days the final round will take place
before Deathstroke vanishes once again and hopefully upon his next return Richard will have
more use to him.
 Walking Into A Trap

Gotham City, June 15th, 9:59PM

After a day filled with many needed talks and tears Dick had fallen asleep while he and Bruce
had been watching an old movie neither had seen since before the teen moved out. Bruce had
left Alfred to watch over the boy while he checked on the a few things in the cave to see if
Batman would be needed tonight or not.

Dick had told him that he’d be fine with Alfred, but the over-protective part of the father
didn’t think that would be enough. It wasn’t just the threat if Deathstroke or that he didn’t
think the butler was fully capable of watching over the boy but the threat of nightmares and
Dick trying to take off again that made Bruce want to stay. He wanted to be there for his son
especially because he wants to show he wants to try to improve things between them.

Dick may have accepted the apology, but Bruce knows ‘sorry’ isn’t enough to fix the rift
between them. It’s pathetic when you think off everything Bruce was apologising for. He
needs to show Dick that he’s sorry, prove that he wants to change and wants to be the father
he should have continued being. Bruce knows the things he’s said and done to Dick were
inexcusable and that he had no right to do any of it. The fact that he was grieving was not an
excuse, he should have never tried forcing the blame on Dick and should never have laid a
hand on him the way he did. He wasn’t the only one who was hurt by the loss of Jason, Dick
lost his brother and had to find out in a fight because Bruce was too much of a coward to tell
his eldest that his second child was gone, that his brother was dead.

During their discussions Dick had opened up more than Bruce had expected him to, and
Bruce had listened to it all. He listened to everything his son had to say and didn’t interrupt at
any point despite how much he had wanted to when it came to Dick putting himself down or
apologising for things that didn’t warrant it. When it came to discussing Jason, it had been
even harder for Bruce not to step in as his eldest repeated everything he had said in regard to
the matter, how it was Dick’s fault for not being there, how it should have been him… Some
of what Dick was saying were things he had forced himself to believe in attempts to make the
pain hurt less and because Deathstroke had gotten in his head. Then there was Deathstroke in
general and what he’d been putting Dick through for near enough a month. The emotional
manipulation, the mind games, the physical pain he caused.

Bruce knows that Dick has likely kept some things to himself, but he understands, it would
have been a lot for the boy to discuss what he had. He may have wanted answers, but he
didn’t push not wanting his interrogating to push his son away again.

He’d been able to have none heated words with the boy, advise him without sounding
commanding and comforted him where needed. Bruce knows his apologies a far from enough
to mend the rift between them but he’s hoping that it will at least give him a chance to show
that he’s willing to do better. He may have been grieving during the worst argument but that
wasn’t an excuse he should have been a father and looked out for his first son who was also
grieving.
Looking over the files on the Bat-Computer the message that had been sent to Mount Justice
with the meeting arrangement caught Bruce’s eye reminding him he had yet to tell Dick. He
hadn’t not wanted to put him through anything further today and to give him a little time, but
he knows he won’t be able to hide it much longer. Slade wants to meet in two days in the
same location where his son first crossed paths with the mercenary and Bruce knows keeping
Dick from there will have more severe consequences than allowing the teen to attend as the
mercenary has asked. He hates doing what the mercenary wants but going against his wishes
puts Dick at risk and he refuse to cause his son any more pain than he already has.

Looking at the instructions almost made Bruce want to leave the manor and Dick just so he
could scout the area where the meeting is set to take place to ensure there will be no traps. It
would be pointless as Slade isn’t one for planting his traps so far in advance but at least it
would make Bruce feel a little better about sending his kid to meet with the mercenary.

He closed the file with the arrangements and continued with checking over the city via the
live security cameras he has planted in the most populated and worst areas. He was satisfied
the city would be safe in Batgirl’s and the police’s hands tonight as everything seemed
relatively quiet for the crime-ridden city, nothing major seeming to be occurring other than
the nightmare Bruce was having to watch his son live through.

“Batcave to Batgirl,” Batman stated tapping into the comms so he could inform Barbara
she’d be on her own again tonight.

There was no reply. Silence. It was unlike the female bat to ignore anything over comms.

“Batcave to Batgirl come in,” Batman repeated but once again was met by silence.
“Barbara!”

Even the use of her civilian name brought no reply.

Bruce was now concerned as the active status showed Barbara to be online but why wasn’t
she answering. He then checked the signal’s location and found that Barbara wasn’t to far
from her apartment.

Bruce had a gut feeling something was wrong, that something was coming, and that gut
feeling was telling him the mercenary may be involved. It could be paranoia making him
believe that Deathstroke had something to do with the lack of response from Batgirl, but
instincts were telling him otherwise.

As if to prove a point his civilian phone buzzed, and Bruce fished it from the pocket of his
slacks finding a message from an unknown number. The phone buzzed again with another
notification from the same unknown number this time an image attachment was sent.

Even before opening the message Bruce’s instincts were screaming trap. Opening the
messages, he was greeted with the location that lined up with where Batgirl’s comm signal
was coming from and a message that confirmed his suspicion on who was behind this.

‘I expect you here within the hour, unless you want to explain to the little bird why one of his
friends is dead. If any of the other heroes arrive the girl dies, and the little bird will suffer
greatly.’

The image sent was of a restrained Batgirl excluding the cowl and utility belt, most likely
gloves as well but Bruce is unable to tell. She appeared to be unharmed but was unconscious,
Bruce suspects a sedative as Slade has been known to use them before. There inside a
building, looks to be an abandoned apartment from the layout.

It’s a trap. Bruce knows it’s a trap, but he can’t let Batgirl die. There are likely outcomes for
this either Deathstroke is trying to get a second hostage to use against Dick or he wants Dick
to be left unprotected. He may have Alfred, but the butler’s military training will be no match
for Deathstroke. It’s probably safer to send Dick back to Mount Justice but he’ll start asking
questions and will likely work out what’s going on and then demand to help. There’s the
possibility of asking someone to come watch over Dick while he deals with the situation but
once again that may lead to the teen to discover what is going on.

He could go with another option, but it seems the safest option would be to play Slade’s game
and trust Dick will be safe with just Alfred. Bruce is hoping that this is Slade wanting Dick
left unprotected because it is likely that it won’t be the mercenary coming to get his son. If
Deathstroke is with Barbara Bruce suspects Slade will be having his ally, make the visit to the
manor which he still doesn’t like the idea of, but he prefers it to the idea of Deathstroke
entering his home again. From what Dick had told him when they got him back after Slade
got his hands on him the other man had never hurt him. Deathstroke was the one to hurt him,
Wintergreen merely aided Slade with his plans but never harmed Dick himself. He’d rather
neither of them be anywhere near his kid or in their home again but unfortunately, he can’t
stop it.

He hates the thought of leaving his son especially knowing he’s going to be walking into a
trap buts its what’s best for Dick. It will stop him from loosing one of his best friends and
hopefully stop him being hurt further.

He’ll inform Alfred of the situation and then head straight out. Hopefully Dick stays asleep
until he can get back and it will just seem like he decided it would be best to patrol given he
skipped the previous night. Wishing his son would stay sleeping was futile, Bruce knows that
is someone is coming here for Dick then they’ll want him awake for whatever they have
planned. He just hopes that his son won’t be hurt further because he isn’t sure how much
more his boy can take.
 A Final Gift

Gotham City, June 15th, 10:32PM

Wintergreen had just received the confirmation that the message had been sent to Wayne and
was set to move in any moment. The tracker Slade had on the kid showed him to be in the
confines of the mansion and his vitals suggest he’s sleeping which means the Bat will be the
one to check up on Wilson.

That was the preferred plan, Wilson didn’t want to cause further damage to the kid until the
arranged night but if Grayson was the one to show up a fight would be unavoidable.

Wintergreen still had reservations about Slade’s interest in the teen despite the boy having
also intrigued him as well, especially during those months when the kid played his part as an
apprentice.

The boy had showed skill and resilience though Wilson had tried to drill that out of him early
on. He was intelligent and made himself useful for the jobs Slade had him work. Still
Wintergreen didn’t think it wise for this game of Slade’s to continue.

It seemed like a waste of time and effort now; the boy may have come back when the archer
was in danger but had his friend not been at risk he never would have. He has refused every
time since his attempted sacrifice and Wintergreen presumes that will stick unless his those
close to him are in physical danger similar to that of the clone archer. Threats will only go so
far in making the boy comply.

While he may think Grayson is now a lost cause he still follows Slade and carries out favours
for his long-time friend. They have been working together since their army days and both are
loyal to one another, Wintergreen can’t turn his back on his ally now even if he doesn’t think
his game with the bird is worth it anymore.

‘The bat is on the move’ – SW.

‘Acknowledge contact will be made momentarily’ – WW.

With the dark knight now being confirmed to have left the confines of the mansion where the
bird was being kept hidden away Wintergreen was able to proceed with his task of making
the delivery.

It had been wishful thinking that the female vigilante had a way to track the Batman luckily,
she had which made it easier for the two mercenaries as they wouldn’t have to wait for
Batman to arrive where Batgirl was being stowed away.

He began driving towards the large, gated entrance of the manor grounds from where he had
been previously parked just off the road concealed within the treeline. He’s expecting some
form of retaliation from the old butler but not much given that it would result in the girl being
hurt and Grayson should the threat of the female bat not be enough.
Within the manor Alfred had just returned to the young master’s room with a fresh cup of tea
and a book as he knew it was likely to be long night with Bruce having to leave to investigate
something regarding Wilson. The younger man hadn’t given details on what he would be
doing only leaving with clear instructions to not mention Deathstroke to Richard as not to
cause him further worry. The elder was concerned by the lack of details but trusted that Bruce
knew what he was doing.

As Alfred resituated himself at Richard’s bedside, he received an alert on his mobile

signifying someone was at the gates leading towards the household. They were not expecting
any visitors and those that may have stopped by would use the other method which leads to
Alfred suspecting this had been what Bruce was worried about. He had briefly mentioned the
possibility of someone turning up while he was out and begrudgingly had instructed the
person be allowed into the manor as it would be less trouble in the long run for the young
master.

Alfred looked at his sleeping pseudo-grandson sadly before stepping out of the room to
access the intercom for the gate without waking the teen.

“Mr Wilson has a gift for the bird,” the voice of Wintergreen came through the intercom. “I
advise you except it unless you want him to kill the girl.”

It took Alfred a moment to figure out who the other man was referring to even though it
should have been obvious.

“You may deliver this gift, but I will not be allowing you near the boy,” Alfred stated opening
the gates albeit reluctantly to allow the car access to the grounds.

“I don’t need to see the kid, just need to make sure he gets the package,” Wintergreen
responded smugly at how easily the butler allowed him into the strong hold. “Thank you for
the co-operation.”

With the gates opened and the car approaching, Alfred glanced back into the room Richard
was still resting in not wanting to leave him alone in case he wakes. The sound of Ace
growling as the car drew nearer to the manor remind Alfred the teen wouldn’t be left
completely unprotected though he would rather stay with the boy.

“Watch over the lad,” Alfred instructed the dog closing the door fully as if it would add an
extra layer of protection between his young charge and the man whom he was about to allow
into their home.

Before heading to the main entrance Alfred collected his shotgun to deter the villains ally
from trying anything further than delivering whatever he had been asked to deliver. He
wouldn’t be allowing that man into their home without a way to protect the boy he had a
hand in raising.

When the door finally opened Wintergreen wasn’t surprised to be faced with the shotgun
aimed at him. He had expected something of the like given the boy was inside, the gun itself
may have been a tad surprising given the bats dislike for them but he knows the butler is an
ex-army man like himself, so it wasn’t much of a shock.
He didn’t say anything and merely nodded to the step where he had already placed the
package knowing it was highly unlikely that the loyal butler would be allowing him to enter
the mansion while Grayson was inside.

“Mr Wilson wanted me to warn that he will know if Richard was the one to accept this gift,
so make sure he gets it and that Wayne does not try hiding it from him,” Wintergreen stated
keeping his hands in view as he re-entered the sedan, he had been driving to ensure the butler
wouldn’t shoot him even though he knew the weapon was more likely for show currently.

Slade may have wanted him to get eyes on the teen for a visual confirmation on how broken
he was but that wasn’t going to happen. If Wilson wanted a visual confirmation, he’d have to
acquire that himself.

Alfred kept the weapon trained as he watched the other man step back into his car and began
to drive away. He kept observing until he saw the entrance gates open and close once more in
the distance before lowering the gun and picking up the box that had been left behind.

As he stepped back into the manor, he was surprised to see Richard sitting halfway down the
stairs leaning against the banister for support. The boy still looked exhausted but there was
also fear within his dulled sapphire gaze.

“Master Richard, you should be resting,” Alfred stated minimising the light scolding tone.

“What did he want?” Dick asked gesturing to the box under the butler’s arm.

He’d been woken by Ace continuing to growl and when he looked, he saw the dog stood on
its hind legs at the window scratching the frame. When he had gathered enough energy to get
himself over to the window Dick saw Wintergreen just as he was getting back into the car.

“I think we are best waiting for Master Bruce to return from his patrol before discussing
anything,” Alfred advised the box on the side next to him before heading up to where Dick
was sat. “You are exhausted young sir; this can wait for now.”

When Alfred tried to help him up Dick shrugged him off not wanting to be left in the dark
about anything that involves Deathstroke.

“He was here for a reason Alfred, that reason most likely to be to get at me and my guess that
box is how,” Dick protested, he knows Alfred’s just trying to look out for him, but he needs
the truth. “I’m also guessing Bruce is doing something more than patrol because earlier he
was completely against the idea of going out. What’s happened? Is someone hurt?”

Knowing that he wouldn’t be able to lie to the teen Alfred answered his question as truthfully
as he could, “You are correct that Master Bruce is not merely patrolling however he did not
give me any details as to where he was going apart from that it was likely your current
adversary may be involved.”

Dick struggled to pull himself up, still weak from injuries and exhaustion but refused
Alfred’s help knowing his surrogate grandfather would try to get him back to bed.
“Richard…” Alfred began when Dick brushed him off once more.

“I’m not leaving, but I need to know where he is and what he’s doing. If he’s going after
Deathstroke it’s likely a trap,” Dick interrupted using the banister to heavily support himself
the rest of the way down the stairs. “And I also need to check the contents of that,” he
pointed at the box, pausing at the bottom of the stairs to catch his breath. “Slade’s planning
something, he wouldn’t just send Wintergreen here if he wasn’t trying to play more games…
It most likely is a final attempt at mind games before he next shows.”

“I understand Master Richard now please allow me to help you before you cause yourself
more harm,” Alfred said picking the package back up and taking Dick’s arm to offer a
support as the began traipsing to the Bat-Cave.

Once in the caverns Alfred placed the package on the console near where Dick was sitting
while the younger worked on accessing the live camera feed from Bruce’s cowl. He had
access to the tracker which showed Bruce’s vitals, but he wanted the visual confirmation the
camera feed gave him that his father was alive. As soon as the screen displayed the live
footage Dick’s heart slowed from it’s racing pace slightly however noticing the package in
the corner of his vision he couldn’t relax fully.

“What did he say when he gave it to you?” Dick asked cringing at how his voice shook, his
adrenaline that had voiced his protests earlier being replaced by anxiety.

“Just to make sure that you were the one to view it’s contents,” Alfred sighed wishing he
could stop all of this from happening to the boy.

“That’s always comforting,” Dick smirked to hide his uneasiness.

Whenever Slade had wanted him to view certain things in the past it was anything but
comforting. It was always something that would lead to a spiral or something to invite him to
the next meeting between the two of them. The only things he’s received from the mercenary
Dick barely considers comforting were the rewards he’d get for doing good work as
Renegade but even then, that was part of a game, a way to show Slade was in control.
Because of that when he had finally returned home, he had disposed of what had been his
favourite book because every time he looked at it, he was reminded of his time with the
mercenary.

“Richard?” Alfred questioned noticing the teen had somewhat zoned out, simply staring at
the box with a blank expression.

“I’m fine, just…” Dick sighed raking a hand through his hair wincing at the slight discomfort
in the healing appendage.

He didn’t know what he was. He just wanted this to all be over so he could forget again. He
wanted things to go back to how they were a couple months ago. Back when Slade was off
the raider, back when Jason was still alive, when things were his definition of easy.

“I don’t know what I’m doing,” Dick hiccupped trying to keep the tears at bay, he’d done
enough crying recently. “It seems whatever I do it’s never right, someone is always being put
in danger or getting hurt and I just… I can’t keep doing it, I can’t…”

“Richard,” Alfred interrupted in a warm comforting yet stern tone. “You try so very hard to
help those in need and to keep those around you safe and that’s all you can do. All any of us
can do is try our very best but even then, sometimes unfortunate things will happen despite
our efforts, that doesn’t make it your fault or a failure, it makes you more resilient as it
pushes you to try even harder the next time around. You my dear boy are one of the most
resilient and determined people I have ever met, even more so than Master Bruce, things have
always been difficult for you and yet you have never let them stop you, you have never let
them defy you so please don’t now. I know you’ve had an extremely difficult time these past
weeks but please do not give up now, do not let that man win because this is what he wants.”

“Thanks Alfred,” Dick smiled swallowing past the lump in his throat. “I-I needed that.”

Dick wiped at his eyes to rid the tears that were threatening to spill taking Alfred’s words
onboard. Slade’s goal has always been to break him, break him to the point he feels like
nothing will help. He can’t give in now; he’s been doing this with the mercenary to long to
give in now.

With a shaky breath Dick pulled the box closer to him and removed the lid to reveal it’s
contents. His heart skipped a beat when he saw the gun in the box. It was a handgun, an M9
handgun the same type Deathstroke had made him train with in the past. The same type of
gun he almost… He ignored the weapon now and looked over the other items. The first being
a phone which he quickly realised was his, remembering how Slade had taken it the before
the meeting with Ryder. He picked the device out of the package and switched it on before
glancing at the final item which was a flash drive. Flash drives were never a good sign as it
was usually an ‘invite’ or some form of video.

He ignored the drive for now and checked over his phone to see if there was anything he
needed to look out and to see if everything was still there. Everything was at it should be
nothing being changed or deleted however there was an addition to the notes section. That
made his stomach churn as he realised Slade has likely read all the entries he has and most of
them are similar to the journal entries for when he didn’t have the book on him, or he’d
completed one and didn’t have a spare. Hesitantly he opened the most recent entry to the
notes to view the message left for him by Deathstroke.

‘I’m afraid our time is coming to an end little bird; we will meet one final time in two days
from the day you receive this gift where we first met at 11:00PM. Wayne was already aware
of this however I presume he has kept that hidden from you to try and prevent us from
crossing paths. The other gift I have left for you should be recognisable not only is it the same
model, but it is also the same one you used, the one that you very nearly used to kill yourself.
I shared that information with your precious team, they saw how close you were, they have
also seen your slip up when you harmed yourself. The gift is a reminder of how close you
were, of how much you allowed my presence to affect you, it is also a test you I read through
each of the entries you have made and I’m curious to see if you will fulfil that promise you
made yourself that if you ever came back to me, you’d end it all. As for the flash drive, I
advise you watch the footage, it was not easy to obtain…’
Dick didn’t finish reading the note after that allowing the phone to slip from his hand as his
attention shifted back to the flash drive still in the box.

“Richard?” Alfred questioned startling the teen as he forgot the elder man was still with him.

“I’m fine,” Dick bit out though he was anything but. “Could I have a minute, alone?”

“Richard…”

“I won’t go anywhere; I promise I just… The drive has video footage, and I don’t know what
it is but if it’s anything from… I don’t want anyone to see it. I know he’s sent things in the
past, but I’d still rather avoid others seeing what happened,” Dick explained, he didn’t think
it was anything revolving his time as Renegade but as it has come from Slade it won’t be
anything nice and he doesn’t want Alfred seeing it whatever it is. “I promise Alfred I won’t
make a break for it; I just need to watch this alone but… but could you take that away,” he
gestured to the gun still in the box. “It… I need it gone, destroyed preferably.”

He had been about to tell Alfred what that weapon signified but he didn’t know if Alfred was
aware of what he almost did and if his grandfather didn’t know he wants to keep it that way.

“Very well Master Richard,” Alfred finally agreed reluctantly.

He trusted Dick would keep his promise and not run that was not why he didn’t want to leave
him alone. He doesn’t want to leave knowing that whatever the video may be had been sent
to hurt the boy and no doubt it would send him into a state of anxiety and panic. Alfred could
already see the clear signs of an impending attack that Richard was fighting to keep down.

“I will await in the study for when you are finished,” Alfred stated taking the box now
containing just the gun.

“Alf, can you get rid of this as well please,” Dick asked handing his phone to the butler,
knowing Slade had been through it he didn’t trust it hadn’t been bugged.

Alfred took the device and nodded, giving Dick’s shoulder light squeeze of comfort before
departing from the cave.
 I'm So Sorry Little Wing
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes

Gotham City, June 15th, 11:13PM

He’d been alone for five minutes now just fiddling with the flash drive rather than plugging it
in to view the video footage that is on it. He’s terrified of the contents as he knows it won’t be
anything from his days as Renegade as Slade had said in his message ‘it was not easy to
obtain’ leading Dick to believe it had come from an outside source. Who that outside source
could be, he doesn’t know.

While he held off on viewing the video on the drive he kept checking in on Bruce via the live
feed from the camera within his father’s cowl. He’d arrived at what looked like an abandoned
apartment complex and was searching through the building, Dick’s just hoping his father isn’t
heading straight for a trap. A part of him had been tempted to go after the dark knight just in
case but he knows he’d cause more trouble being there then if he remains at the manor. If
Bruce does get caught or looks to need back-up, Dick can always contact someone to go help
his father.

He looked down at his hands again, staring intently at the flash drive debating whether or not
to watch it. His guts telling him not to, to throw it to the bottom of the cavern and forget it
ever existed but… But his fear of what Slade will do if he doesn’t watch it is louder than his
gut. He doesn’t want to listen to Slade, but the mercenary will know if he’s followed orders,
he always knows and if Dick doesn’t watch the footage Bruce could be hurt while he’s
looking for Deathstroke. He doesn’t want to watch it, but he doesn’t want to watch his father
be hurt more.

Reluctantly he finally plugs the drive into the computer but when the video file loads, he
hesitates to press play. The screen was black, so he had no indication or warning for what was
to come which only made his anxiety levels increase further. He partly wishes Slade had at
least given him some form of a clue so he might know what to expect but instead he was in
the dark.

At some point he finally pushes play without realising he’d done so until a sickening crack
echoed through the cave, followed by another and another. Then a mad bloodcurdling cackle
that had haunted him since the first time he heard it sounded followed by more of the
sickening cracks. Even before the picture displayed Dick realised what this was, he realised
what was about to come and yet he was frozen unable to look away or turn it off.

Another crack and then the clown’s voice was heard as Jason appeared on screen battered and
bleeding, lying on the ground struggling for breath releasing pained whimpers and groans.

“Wow, that one looked like it really hurt.”

Crack!
Crack!

Crack!

Joker continued his beating, eliciting more pained noises from Robin as he was repeatedly hit
with the crowbar as the clown smiled that bloodthirsty grin.

“Woah, now hang on that looked like it hurt a lot more.”

Jason’s breathing was even worse and was partnered with the sound of Joker tapping the
crowbar in his hands condescendingly as he looked down at the wounded hero.

“So, let’s try to clear this up okay Pumpkin, what hurts more? A?”

Crack!

“Or B”

Crack!

“Forhand?”

Crack!

“Or Backhand?”

Crack!

Crack!

Another mad cackle from the psychotic clown, followed by an incoherent mumble from the
down bird. Joker crouched next to the downed teen mocking the rasps coming from him
while petting his head.

“A little louder lamb chop, I think you may have a collapsed lung that always beats the
auditory.”

Jason spat at the clown, the blood that came up hitting Joker in the face angering him making
him slam Robin’s head into the ground before standing.

“Now that was rude, the first boy blunder had some manners.”

Jason’s turned smirking at the Joker as an act of defiance, his teeth bloodstained from the hits
and most likely blood coming up from internal bleeding.

“I suppose I’m going to have to teach you a lesson so you can better follow in his footsteps…
Nah. I’m just gonna keep beating you with this crowbar.”

The Joker laughed again as he pressed his foot into Jason’s back and then followed his words
and continued the beating.
Crack!

Crack!

Crack!

Each hit was harder than the last and eventually Jason’s sounds of pain began to fade.

Crack!

Crack!

Crack!

The disgusting sound of the crowbar meeting flesh continued for an undeterred amount of
time; Dick having lost track a long time ago. Jason was lifeless on the ground by the end,
Joker having thrown the weapon down next to the barely conscious teen before starting to
make his leave.

“Okay Kiddo I’ve gotta go, it’s been fun though, right? Well maybe a smidge more fun for
me than you, I’m just guessing since you’re being awful quiet. Anyway, be a good boy, do
your homework and be in bed by nine. And hey please tell the big man I said hello.”

More of that sickening laughter and a door slamming shut as it faded away.

Dick doesn’t know how but when the laughter stopped Jason opened his eyes and was able to
roll to get his cuffed hands in front of him despite his obvious agony. The kid struggled to get
himself standing, uneasy on his feet and when he tried taking a step forward, he collapsed
again releasing another whimper. That didn’t stop him as he then dragged himself across the
warehouse to the door where Joker had just exited with difficulty. The door itself was barely
in view of the camera but enough could be seen that Dick saw the defeat in his brother’s eyes
when he found the door locked. Still Jason tried to push the door open with the little strength
he had left but that’s when the beeping was heard. Dick saw the acceptance on Jason’s face
when the being grew louder and then… Nothing a black screen but he knows what happened.

Tears were streaming down his face and his ears were echoing with the mad cackle and the
smack as the crowbar connected with his little brother’s body. He was shaking with grief,
anger and fear. His chest was tight, burning, he couldn’t breathe but he didn’t care. He just
watched his brother, his Little Wing be brutally beaten and killed, he saw Jason’s final
moments. Jason had the same look he did when he thought he was going to die, he had
accepted it, accepted Batman wasn’t going to get to him in time, accepted no-one was going
to save him.

“I-I’m s-so -s-s-sorry J-Jay,” Dick choked between his cries and tears. “I-I sh-should o-of…”

Alfred had heard the Richard’s heartbreaking sobbing from the study despite the
soundproofing and immediately headed back down to the cave knowing the teen would need
consoling.
Upon seeing the boy’s clear distress Alfred was instantly at his side wrapping his arms
around him in hopes it would offer some comfort though from what he had heard the through
the boy’s tears he doubts it will work.

“It’s alright Richard, it’s over, it’s over,” Alfred tried to sooth though it fell on deaf ears as
Dick clung to him like his life depended on it. “It’s alright lad, just try to take deep breaths
for me…”

Alfred continued his attempts to calm the teen though it was futile, whatever had been shown
in the video footage had overwhelmed the boy. From the few words he picked up from the
boy he could only presume the kind of footage that monster of a man had sent. He wishes he
hadn’t accepted the teen’s request to be left alone, if he hadn’t, he may have been able to
prevent the young master from fully revieing the dreadful things that video must have
contained.

They must have been there longer than Alfred thought as the sound of the Bat-Mobile
returning hopefully with Master Bruce in one piece.

A moment later Batman and Batgirl were exiting the vehicle the former’s gaze instantly
settling on where his son and pseudo father were, Dick’s muffled sobs drawing his full
attention.

“Alfred?” Bruce questioned wanting an explanation his voice the worried father without any
trace of Batman and removed the cowl.

Batgirl’s attention was now also brought to her friend who was clinging to the butler like a
lifeline.

“Dick?” she questioned removing her cowl completely forgetting the nights earlier events.

“Master Bruce, if you would,” Alfred nodded towards the med bay silently asking if his elder
charge would retrieve a sedative as it was unlikely Richard was going to calm down without
the aid.

Bruce understanding the request swiftly made his way to the med bay to retrieve the sedative
deducing Dick must have been in his current state for a while if Alfred was suggesting the
use of drugs to calm him. The tried to avoid where possible but sometimes the panic becomes
too much and the only way to ease Dick out of it is to sedate him to prevent him hurting
himself. This route was avoided more often after Dick returned to them from his time as
Deathstroke’s apprentice as the needle used to administer the sedative would always make his
anxiety increase further before the drug took over forcing him into sleep. Even now Dick still
was uneasy when it came to needles and had to have someone hold his hand whenever blood
samples needed taking or medication had to be administered through an injection.

With Alfred trapped in Dick’s embrace it was Bruce who administered the sedative, having to
inject the drug into the teen’s neck as his arms were holding onto Alfred. It was fast-acting
and soon the boy’s grip on the butler faltered as he began to drift, Bruce now supporting him
so he wouldn’t collapse when he lost consciousness fully.
As the sedative did it’s work Dick whimpered at the loss of contact but was silenced when
another warmth enveloped him. This warmth felt familiar, safe as he allowed his heavy eyes
to finally close trusting the protection, he felt surrounding him to keep him safe.

Bruce had carefully picked Dick up and carried him to the med bay once he was certain the
boy was asleep, closely followed by the other two occupants of the cave. He placed his son
on one of the medical cots to allow him to rest, tucking him in like he used to when Dick was
still a child, well younger as he is very much still a kid.

It was only once he was certain his boy was comfortable did, he ask the question, “what
happened?”

“It was as you expected sir, Wilson had his ally come here to deliver something to the lad.
The package that was brought here contained Richard’s phone, a handgun, both of which he
asked to be disposed of and a flash drive that contained video footage,” Alfred answered the
guilt he was feeling for leaving the teen to watch the video alone evident in his voice. “He
had asked me to give him privacy to view the footage believing it was likely something to do
with… with his time when Wilson had him however, I suspect it may have… It may have
been something to do with Master Jason.”

Bruce’s eyes widened at that statement as he deduced what the footage Dick had watched
likely showed. Joker had asked him if he found the home video before Bruce beat him to a
bloody pulp and even when he turned to strangle the clown intent on taking that psycho’s life
the clown continued to taunt him of how the footage would go viral would it to ever be
released. He thought the clown was merely trying to get under his skin but now…

Oh Dick. Hadn’t Deathstroke put him through enough already? Why go further? Why put his
boy through that?

He should have stayed. He should have let someone else go after Batgirl as Slade hadn’t even
been there when he arrived. It was just a ploy to get him away long enough to have Dick
suffer. Barbara hadn’t even been injured when he arrived, she had only been sedated to keep
her from escaping before he arrived.

“I’ll stay with him,” Bruce finally said breaking the silence. “Both of you head on up, I’ll
inform you when he’s awake.”

Neither Alfred nor Barbara wanted to leave knowing that when Dick did awake it would
likely be from a nightmare induced panic attack, but Bruce’s tone left no room for protests.
The butler may normally have voiced his reservations about leaving his grandson’s side when
he was like this, but he knew why Bruce wanted the time alone with the young master and
kept silent. Barbara had been tempted to argue but if what Alfred had said was true, that the
footage that had led her friend to be in one of the worst states of panic she’d seen him in then
she knew Bruce would be the only one to ease him through it. She didn’t leave without
offering a glare to the dark knight as a warning that if he hurt the bird again, he’d pay the
consequences and she saw the regret on his face as she exited the med bay following the
butler.
 Alone Bruce took residence in one of the chairs by the cot he had placed his son on expecting
a long night ahead. He knows that Dick will likely wake up screaming from night terrors and
is prepared to ease him through each one as he has done so many times in the past.

Chapter End Notes

Joker's lines taken directly from Batman: Under The Red Hood
 It Wasn't Your Fault

Gotham City, June 16th, 6:07AM

As expected, Dick woke numerous times over the night in various stages of panic from
screaming to the sudden shocks of wakefulness with a gasp for breath. Each time Bruce had
been at his side to ease him through it and calm him down enough to help back to sleep.

Every time he had Dick resettled Bruce would be tempted to leave his bedside just long
enough to find out exactly what was on that flash drive. He restrained himself knowing if
Dick woke and he wasn’t there the boy may hurt himself and his fear would grow worse. He
may not have viewed the drive, but he is certain Alfred had been right, it had something to do
with Jason and Bruce was certain that something was what the clown had taunted. The
detective was certain that his eldest had watched his little brother be tortured by the mad man
and then killed.

If that wasn’t enough, Alfred had showed him the two other items that had been delivered in
the package from the mercenary. The butler had told him of the note on the phone which
Bruce read thoroughly almost launching the device across the room at the when Slade
practically challenged Dick to…

Did his son really promise himself that? Bruce had seen the video twice of where Dick had
been tempted but he never realised his boy still saw it as an option to escape. He wants to ask
but he can’t. He shouldn’t know Dick has those feelings; Slade shouldn’t know but…

He’d asked Alfred to carry out Dick’s request in destroying the two items not wanting his boy
to have to hurt by seeing them ever again.

“Stoj. Stoj. Mek les korkořo. Ame žav ma staj (Stop. Stop. Leave him alone. Please stop)” a
muffled voice came from the cot redirecting Bruce’s attention again back on his son.

“Shh, Dick it’s okay, it’ll be okay, it’s just a dream,” Bruce whispered carding his hand
through the teen’s hair using his other to keep hold of his son’s twitching hand. “I’m right
here, it’ll be okay.”

Bruce kept up with the soft comforting gestures and the calming words as Dick continued
twitching and mumbling in Romani. The past two-night terrors have been like this, calmer
though still haunting to the teen like his mind and body are too exhausted to fight against the
images anymore. It makes sense, Dick was already exhausted mentally and physically before
coming back to the manor, it’s logical for that to now effect his struggle with the bad dreams
plaguing him.

It was as the sound of footsteps sounded on the stairs leading down to the cave that Dick
finally began to show signs of calming as his eyes fluttered under closed lids before slowly
blinking open.
“Bruce?” his voice was hoarse from sleep and early bouts of screaming from the nightmare
induced panic attacks.

“I’m right here, it’s okay, try and get back to sleep, I’m not going anywhere,” Bruce assured
lightly wiping the tears from his son’s eyes. “It’s okay, I promise I’ll stay right here.”

“J-Ja…”

“Shh, I know, I know,” Bruce eased the teen up to embrace him as the tears continued.

Dead. That’s all Dick could process. He’s known Jason was dead for weeks now but that
video… It re-opened the wound he’d been ignoring, the wound he had never allowed to start
healing. His little brother tortured by that psychotic clown and killed. Jason had accepted the
fate that was coming. His little wing gone. Dead.

“I know, I’m so sorry.”

Why was Bruce sorry? Dick should be the sorry one for not being there to help.

“It’s not your fault.”

But it is. He should have been there, if he was Joker wouldn’t have taken his brother.

“It wasn’t your fault.”

No, it was. He could have done something, he could have stopped it, he could have saved
Jason.

“It wasn’t your fault.”

He was supposed to have been here, if he’d been a better team leader he would have been. He
would have been here, and he would have stopped the Joker from ever hurting his brother. He
would have made sure Jason lived. He would have taken his place.

“It wasn’t your fault,” Bruce continued to repeat, holding his son close to protect him from
the world around them that is intent on making sure his boy suffers and hurts.

He wanted nothing more than to take that hurt away. He wanted his son to be able to live a
happy life and not have to suffer further. More than anything he wants to promise Dick that
it’ll all stop but he can’t. There line of work doesn’t allow promises such as those and even if
Dick gave up the mask Bruce knows Slade won’t give up on him now.

Alfred had entered the med bay while he tried to console the teen with a fresh mug of coffee
however seeing their boy breaking down, he placed the item down to ready another dose of
sedative just in case. Both would prefer not having to use the drug to ease their boy but in
times like this it was sometimes unavoidable.

“It wasn’t your fault,” Bruce repeated once again noticing how Dick was very slowly calming
as he continued with the comforting gestures that most of the time worked to ease the teen
back down.
He still blamed himself and didn’t think the warmth around him should be offered but started
to accept it and the safety it offered. It was a familiar warmth, and he knew it offered
protection though he didn’t think he deserved it as he was the reason his brother was…

“It wasn’t your fault.”

That voice kept repeating and he wanted to trust it’s words, but he knew better. He may have
accepted Bruce’s apology but inside he knew the truth that Bruce had been right Jason died
because…

“It wasn’t you fault.”

It wasn’t just Jason, it was everything. He’d failed so much in these past few weeks alone. He
could have caused so many to be hurt or…

“It wasn’t your fault.”

It was. He was the one who took Deathstroke one alone. He was the one that went back to the
man who had tried taking everything from him. He betrayed his friends, his family the first
time he went to Deathstroke. He hurt them. He almost got them all…

“It wasn’t your fault.”

Every time Dick tried to apologise or blame himself for something Bruce repeated those
words and would continue doing so until they stuck. He knows part of Dick’s self-blaming is
because of him, because he blamed the teen for his second child’s death, something he will
forever regret. How dare he put that on his boy, how dare he try and blame Dick for Jason
when it was him that put the younger in the field. Dick didn’t deserve that, he didn’t deserve
any of the pain and hurt that was always being thrown at him, he deserved to be happy but
unfortunately it seems as if fate is set on denying his son just that.

He keeps up with soothing his son until Dick’s crying and tears taper of to quiet whimpers
and sniffles. It was reminding him of not that long ago when this was a nightly routine after
Deathstroke took his son away from him when they got him back. Dick was so broken back
then, a shell of what he had been, and it had taken a lot of work to bring him back. However,
he was never the same, no-one had expected him to be especially Bruce, but it still hurt to
look at the boy and see only half of who he was. It was even worse when new people were
introduced as Dick distanced himself, not allowing anything that wasn’t necessary to show.
The only person after Deathstroke that Dick allowed in that little bit more was Jason but even
then, he still kept the younger at arm’s length.

Bruce understood why. He may not have then but now he knows that it hurt his son to see
another boy at his side, to wear the name that had once belonged to him, the name that was
special because Dick’s mother gave it to him. He also knew it was Dick’s way of protecting
Jason as the younger was never told the details of Deathstroke. He was told who the
mercenary was for safety reasons but never the details of what he put his older brother
through. It’s selfish but Bruce is grateful that the mercenary never came back while Jason
was around because he couldn’t bare the thought of the mercenary possibly targeting another
of his kids whether it be for an apprentice or to hurt his eldest.
Alfred cleared his throat distracting the billionaire from that thought as he gestured to the
tray, he had brought down which Bruce only now just realised had a glass of water on as well
as the mug of now cold coffee. He shifted his hold on the teen in his arm’s eliciting a
whimper from the boy as Dick clung to him tighter.

“I’m not going anywhere Dick, but you need to drink something for me,” Bruce assured
stroking the back of his son’s head to ease his anxiety.

It took a little more coaxing but eventually Dick pulled his tear-streaked face away from
where it had been buried in his father’s chest only now noticing Alfred’s presence. Seeing
Alfred brought another wave of panic to him as he briefly remembers the accented tone
trying to speak to him. Did Alfred, see? Does he know what Jason looked like before?

“Dick, you with us?” Bruce questioned wiping away the fresh tears falling down his son’s
face.

Dick nodded as when he opened his mouth words would not come out no matter how hard he
tried. His throat was sore, it felt like he’d been screaming for hours on end. Maybe he had, he
doesn’t remember much after seeing Jason’s face before…

Cool metal brushed against his dry lips, followed by Bruce’s voice once again, “go slow,
don’t overdo it.”

Right, he wanted him to drink something. Even the thought of just water was making his
stomach churn but he had to try Bruce asked him to and he didn’t want to disappoint him. He
didn’t want to fail such a miniscule task like he had failed Jason.

The thought made him nauseas, but he followed the instruction and took small slow slips of
water, the cool liquid soothing his aching throat. He pulled away after a few seconds as even
that small amount of fluid made his insides churn.

“D-don’t w-watch…” Dick stuttered faltering of in a coughing fit that almost made him
throw up.

Bruce rub circles into his back followed by gentle yet firm pats to ease the hacking, using his
other arm to support the teen as his exhaustion was still ever present.

He knew what Dick was going to say, he was going to tell them not to watch the video on the
flash drive. Bruce wanted to promise his son that he wouldn’t but if it’s what he thinks it is
then…”

“I disposed of the drive along with the other items Master Richard, no-one else will ever
witness the footage it concealed,” Alfred assured eliciting a glare from Bruce that went
unnoticed by Dick.

Alfred was indifferent to the scowl as he had done what he believed best for his two charges.
He had suspicions of what that drive may contain and knew Bruce would try to watch the
footage himself. He couldn’t allow that knowing if it was the worst of his suspicions, it
would likely send the master down a dark road he may not come back from. Losing Master
Jason had almost led to that and had it not been for Richard’s current issues Bruce would
likely still be on his path of self-destruction. He had been even after learning the mercenary
had once again approached the young master and only got his act together when he realised
how bad the teen’s mental state had dropped. If Bruce wanted to view the footage that had
been contained on that drive, he would have to beat it out of the psycho that took young
Jason from them himself.

“Th-Thanks Alf…” Dick muttered once the coughing fit had passed faltering off when a bout
of nausea rolled through his stomach.

“No need to thank me sir, but I think it best we get you upstairs to bed where you can rest
properly and comfortably,” Alfred suggested.

If Dick had the energy or mental capacity, he’d laugh at the idea of being able to ‘rest
comfortably’, he won’t be able to do that until Slade’s gone and even then, he probably won’t
rest easy for a while thanks to the nightmares that will linger even with the mercenary
vanishing. Still, he allowed his father to help him up onto shaky legs to guide him back up to
the manor taking most of his weight with how uneasy he was on his feet. Bruce probably
would have carried him if he asked but Dick was too stubborn for that and even when Bruce
tried to offer he brushed him off with an ‘I’ll manage’ because he’d already shown enough
weakness.
 I've Got You Brother

Gotham City, June 16th, 3:57PM

It wasn’t until late in the afternoon when Dick woke up fully again. He’d woken briefly since
being brought to his room but was eased back to sleep each time once the panic from the
nightmares was soothed from him.

rather than his father at his side this time round he was surprised to wake to find both Roy
and Wally at his bedside but seeing them sent a wave of dread through him.

“Who…” he began rising to sit up in bed.

Hearing the quiet anxiety filled voice of their little brother Red Arrow was quick to reassure
the younger knowing what he was likely thinking.

“No-one. No-one’s hurt, everyone’s fine, we just thought we should check in with it being a
few days,” he avoided saying ‘no-one was dead’ in case it set off panic from the video they
had been told the mercenary had sent.

No-one knows what the video had actually shown as Alfred had disposed of the drive before
Bruce could get his hands on it but from Dick’s reaction and what they were able to gather
from the nightmares they had a pretty good idea. No doubt Bruce has tried checking on the
caves security feeds to see the video that way but an argument with Alfred suggests that
footage has been deleted.

“How are you holding up?” Wally asked once the fear seemed to subside in his friend.

“Where’s Bruce?” Dick questioned as if he hadn’t heard the question of concern from the
speedster or he chose to ignore it.

“He was called to the Watchtower,” Wally answered knowing his brother wouldn’t relax
without one. “Nothing serious, just a meeting that can’t be put off.”

Dick nodded at the answer, the early panic starting to fade.

The alarm may be gone but the anxiety and unease lingered.

Slade has given him the details of their next meeting. The mercenary had also revealed
everyone knows what he did in one of his lowest moments. That’s probably way his two
brothers are here, they’ll want answers. They’ll want answers but Dick knows they won’t ask
the questions to get them.

“I don’t,” Dick muttered breaking the silence answering one of the unasked questions he
knows will be on their minds.

“Dick?” Wally questioned in confusion.

“I don’t want to kill myself,” Dick clarified his tone defeated. At his friend’s horrified
expressions, he continued. “I know Deathstroke sent some stuff, he made it clear what with
the stuff he sent here. I-I will admit back then I was… tempted b-but I couldn’t, I…”

“When he had you, when we got to you at Lex Corp, you tried to get us to leave buy saying
you’d almost taken a life on your own,” Wally interrupted, Batman may have already told
him he was right about this, but he wanted to hear it from his brother. “You were never
referring to a civilian or someone random, you were referring to yourself.”

It wasn’t a question; it was a statement and Dick stayed silent. The tears that followed gave
the speedster the confirmation he needed, and his heart broke for his little brother. He
couldn’t restrain himself as he sat on the edge of the younger’s bed and pulled him close to
embrace him.

“You idiot, that isn’t the same,” Wally whispered into the raven locks trying to keep his own
tears at bay. “Why would you have even thought that was the case?”

“I just needed you all to leave before he tried hurting you,” Dick muttered onto his friend’s
shoulder.

Roy stayed silent as the speedster consoled the bird. He hadn’t been around during the days
of Renegade though he had heard of what occurred from Oliver during his check-ins and had
read the reports since being back and after he watched the videos despite being told not to.
After Wally told him what was on the videos he had to know, it was guilt that drove him to
view the footage because he hadn’t been there for their little brother during that time too
caught up in his need to search for someone whose likely dead.

It’s why he hadn’t left yet despite having been tempted to once he heard the confirmation
Dick didn’t have any nerve damage in his hands. He hadn’t been there before to help, and
they had almost lost him and from what he’s heard there’s been numerous times where they
could have lost him this time around. After Dick had got over what happened the first time,
he’d done what he could to aid in his search for the real Roy Harper and had continued to do
so up until he was sent on the mission in Europe. It was his turn to be there for his friend,
Dick needed them and whether the younger wanted them or not they were all going to be
there.

Dick pulled himself out of Wally’s embrace when he collected himself a little though tears
were still spilling from his red-rimmed sapphire eyes. He turned his gaze towards the eldest
red head seemingly to be analysing him which he was as the last time he saw the archer they
were both in the med bay at Mount Justice.

“Are you doing, okay?” Dick asked to distract himself from the mixed emotions and thoughts
plaguing his mind.

Red Arrow scoffed in disbelief at the question, trust Dick to be going through all this and still
asking if others are doing okay.

“I’m fine, it looked worse than it was,” Red Arrow answered to ease his friend’s concern.
“Ollie’s making me take a break for a couple weeks to rest up, but I promise there were no
serious injuries, it was more the sleep deprivation and malnutrition that had me looking as
bad as I did.”

“You’re sure?” Dick asked, he remembers how Roy looked in the video and when they were
trapped together, he didn’t believe it wasn’t bad.

“I promise, worst of it were the bruised ribs but so long as I take it easy for another week or,
so I’ll be fine. Ryder didn’t want to inflict to much damage wanting to leave that for
whichever of his clients wanted ‘to enact their revenge on Green Arrow’s former partner’,”
Red Arrow reassured knowing that when Dick last saw him, he was nowhere near as put
together as he is now.

“He’s fine Dick, you came out of that a lot worse than he did” Wally added to further reassure
their little brother.

Dick shuddered at that. He’d been with Slade a week and had come out worse than Red
Arrow who had been held captive for… well he doesn’t know how long but it was more than
a week. He knows Deathstroke is brutal but… then again now that he thinks about it, it
wasn’t just a week, it was every time they crossed paths since he came home. Slade patched
him up the first time and refused the fight the second but after that he went back to the usual
fighting, the fighting that was intent to cause pain both physical and mental. It wasn’t just
injuries he sustained from Slade, the mercenary brought out the worst of his PTSD and
depression which affects him in other ways.

Lack of sleeping. Lowered appetite leading to weight loss. Constant nerves. The fading from
reality to forget. That when Slade’s around he regrets not pulling the trigger.

He shouldn’t be surprised he was seen as worse than the archer.

He felt another weight settle next to him and a hand engulf his gently squeezing bringing him
back to the present.

When he read the note and realised the weapon in his possession was the one, he was going
to use there was a brief moment where he considered it. He’d promised himself if he ever
went back, he would and for a split second he was tempted to fulfil that promise.

But he couldn’t do it. He couldn’t put those he cared about through that grief especially now,
after Jason. It would have killed both Bruce and Alfred if he had. He couldn’t do that to them,
he couldn’t put them through the pain of losing someone.

“What’s going on up here?” Wally asked lightly tabooing the side of the younger’s head.
“And don’t say your fine because we can see your not. Nothing you say will make us think
any less of you so just talk to us and we’ll listen. We’re brothers that means we look out for
each other.”

“I…” Dick started but instantly trailed off shaking his head.

“Come on Dick talk to us,” Red Arrow tried, keeping his tone gentle so it didn’t seem as
though he was forcing the younger into things. “Whatever it is will listen, even if its not
about him and it’s something else.”

Dick bit his tongued. He couldn’t speak to them, not about this, he couldn’t speak to anyone
about this it wouldn’t be fair. None of them need to know. It would break them if they knew
he wanted to even if it was for a split second. He couldn’t tell them after saying he doesn’t
want to kill himself, which he doesn’t. He doesn’t want to kill himself but if it came to a
point where Slade had him and he didn’t see a way out then he would. At this very moment
however, he doesn’t want to end his life even if it doesn’t seem like a life worth living.

“Deathstroke sent some stuff here,” Dick finally said his voice shook as he spoke. “There…
There was a drive with video footage on it…” he couldn’t do this, he couldn’t…

“It’s okay just breath,” Wally whispered to him taking mild exaggerated breaths to mimic a
calming exercise.

Dick followed. In for three, hold for three, out for three. He continued for a while, waiting for
the burning sensation in his chest to pass.

He couldn’t talk about the video, not yet and not to them or his guardians. Maybe when he
speaks to Dinah but right now, he doesn’t want to think of the look of acceptance on his little
brother’s face when the beeping started. For him that was the worst thing about the footage. It
wasn’t the way the Joker talked down at Jason or watching him be beaten struggling for
breath after every hit, it was the fact that Jason knew he was going to die and accepted it. He
accepted that whatever help was coming wasn’t going to get there in time.

“He… He took my phone before he made me meet with Ryder,” Dick started again to distract
himself from the image of Jason in his head. “While he had it, he went through it… There
was some stuff on their regarding… regarding my messed-up head and he read through it all.
One of the things he saw made it seem like I didn’t want to be here anymore,” it wasn’t
exactly the truth, but he couldn’t say he had plans to kill himself if Slade got him again.
“Because of that he sent a loaded gun in the package, it… it was the same one from…”

“It was the same one from in the video he sent us” Wally finished swallowing the lump in his
throat so he wouldn’t cry with his friend.

Dick nodded and forced his confession out knowing if he didn’t it would eat away at him, “I
don’t want to kill myself but seeing it… I-I considered what would have happened if I had
back then, if things would have been… easier for you all if I had. I-Its why I told Alfred to
get rid of it with the other stuff, I…” It wasn’t a complete lie, but it also wasn’t the full truth,
he couldn’t bring himself to say he was tempted to pick the weapon up and blow his brains
out, it would break them.

He felt both of his brother’s embrace him once more, trapped between them he felt safe. He
allowed the tears to continue falling trusting they wouldn’t judge him.

“Don’t you ever think that don’t you ever think our lives would have been better if you
weren’t in it because that is so far from the truth,” Wally scolded allowing a few of his own
tears to finally fall. “You’re our friend, our brother, don’t you ever think you not being here
would be easier for us.”
“You’re an idiot Grayson, but you’re our idiot and we care about you,” Red Arrow continued
holding the youngest tightly to reinforce how much they cared for him. “We’ll always care
about you, no matter what. You might not believe it Dick but every one of us needs you and
cares for you. Like Wally said you’re our brother, our younger annoying brother, maybe not
by blood but we still look out for one another. I know I wasn’t here back then when things
were at the worst, but I am so glad you didn’t give up, that you didn’t go through with it. That
makes you so strong Dick, it shows you’re a fighter, most people probably would have given
up, would have give in but you didn’t. You continued fighting, continued surviving and you
didn’t let him win. And you’re not going to let him win now, no matter what else he tries to
throw at you. He’s not going to win because you are strong and you are loved by so many
people that believe in you, that will have your back and act as a safety net for when you need
it. Me, Wally, Bruce, all of us have got you, we’re family, we’ll protect you and hold you
together through it all. I know you find it hard to believe but you don’t have to go through
any of this alone, you think you’re protecting everyone by trying to do the solo act but you’re
not because we’re worried about you, we’re terrified that you’re going to push yourself to far
and not come back.”

Dick was fully sobbing now in the hold of his friends, his brothers. And it’s because he can’t
believe what the archer is saying no matter how much he tries.

They don’t need him because he’s a problem causer, he’s put them in harm’s way so many
times, he betrayed them for crying out loud why would they need him. He isn’t strong, if he
was, he would have been able to stop Slade by now, he wouldn’t be a blubbering mess while
the two red heads have their arms around him protectively. He needs to do it alone because if
they get involved it will get them killed and he refuses to let that happen. He knows they
worry but they shouldn’t, its better he be hurt then them lose their lives.

The only thing Roy has said that he believes is that he is an idiot. If he had been more careful
all those years ago Deathstroke wouldn’t have discovered who he was behind the mask and
maybe most of this could have been avoided. He should have just followed Bruce’s orders
after Two-Face and retired Robin then everyone would be safe. He might have known half
the people he does now had he given up back then but at least they wouldn’t be infected with
the curse that is attached to him.

He's destined to get people hurt or killed. Maybe if he had given the life up when Bruce tried
to take it away from him, he could have saved all the lives Robin allowed to be taken, he
could have prevented the pain Robin caused. Maybe Jason would have never donned the
mantle and would still be alive had quit back then. Or maybe he should have just fell with the
rest of his family, then no-one would have ever had to deal with his curse.

“We’ve got you Dick, we’ve got you,” both red heads continued repeating as their younger
brother continued sobbing knowing that despite their words holding truth Dick still would
struggle believing them.
 His Safety Is The Priority

Watchtower, June 16th, 3:31PM

Bruce hadn’t wanted to come here. He had been avoiding the place as much as possible since
Jason not needing the others sympathy. He hadn’t wanted to come now however as he should
be at Dick’s side, he should be there for his other son who needs him. However, this meeting
needed to be had and therefore he had reluctantly left Dick with the speedster and archer as
they were the only ones aside from Barbara, he would allow to attend the manor.

It wasn’t just the teenage heroes that had been sent video footage of the first Robin, videos
were also sent to the Hall of Justice for the league. The elder heroes had only received the
one video and having had no clue as to what it was, it was viewed and those that saw it, saw
how close they had been to losing their honouree nephew.

Not everyone had seen the video which Bruce’s was eternally grateful for as he doesn’t know
how he would tell Dick; he doesn’t know how he’ll tell him about those that have seen it or if
he should tell him.

The ones to have seen the footage including Superman, Wonder Woman, Flash and Green
Arrow. It was as if the mercenary knew when those specific heroes that a closer relationship
to the bird had would be around at the same time. Clark of course had seen the video before
when it was originally sent those few years ago but the others…

Black Canary and Martian Manhunter had also been brought in to attend the meeting as both
of them helped aid Dick through his recovery after Renegade.

Batman had yet to enter the conference room not wanting to deal with any of the pity or
sympathy that was likely to be offered to him. Though the video itself was traumatic to
watch, Dick hadn’t pulled the trigger, so he didn’t want to be reminder of how close it had
been by going through with the meeting scheduled.

Superman however had other plans, “this needs to be discussed, not just because of Dick but
because of the effect it had on those that have seen it.”

The Kryptonian had remained outside the conference room with him despite Bruce’s glare
that said he wanted to be alone. It was selfish but he didn’t care about how anyone else felt
about the video, all he cared about was his son. His son who he had left. His son who needed
him more than ever right now.

“Canary is more than capable of handling the counselling,” Batman stated his frustration and
displeasure for being there even more evident. “My concern is for Nightwing. Deathstroke is
expecting him to meet tomorrow night, but he is no shape to be going anywhere near him…”

“We can have a team step in to try and apprehend him…”

“You know as well as I that won’t work,” Bruce grumbled cutting the alien off. “If it was that
easy to apprehend him, we would have done it years ago before any of this occurred. There is
even more of a challenge now because of the threat to Nightwing’s safety.”

That was something everyone agreed on though they hated it. When it came to the mercenary
Nightwing would always be in some kind of danger, how much depended on if Deathstroke’s
rules were followed.

“If we step in worse will occur and I will not let that happen, he’s been through enough
already,” Bruce sighed in defeat.

“None of us are, we don’t want to see him hurt anymore than you do, believe it or not you
aren’t the only one worried about him,” Clark said hoping to get through to the detective.
“Everyone here, the rest of the league, the team, none of them want to see Dick hurt and they
all would give their lives for him…”

“What’s your point Clark?” Batman grumbled, he doesn’t need to hear this, he already knows
this, if it were any less, he would have never had Dick introduced to league and the team
would never have been founded.

“My point is that this meeting isn’t just about discussing that video, it’s to try and work out
some way we can help him without endangering him further. You said it yourself Dick can’t
fight Deathstroke, he’s injured, exhausted and his medical reports said he’s lost a total of
twenty-four pounds since the exam that took place before the European mission, from the
looks at reports from between his visits to medical since most of that weight loss is since
being back. If he tries to fight… Bruce if he goes against Deathstroke again…” Clark
explained though he already knows Bruce is aware of all of this.

“I know,” Bruce stated trying to keep the tears stinging his eyes from falling. “In his current
condition he might not make it back.”

It’s something he had been fearing since the warehouse incident. It was only then did he
realise how mentally drained Dick was and he realised that his son had been losing weight.
Though even when he had noticed he still neglected to show his care for the teen to busy
berating him for his recklessness out of the fear of losing him. His second realisation of how
little he’d been looking out for his eldest was when Slade had the teen delivered to his
doorstep. The boy was so light when he’d picked him up to take him to bed that night. When
he saw the injuries that littered his son’s body he’d felt an overwhelming amount of guilt,
guilt for not being there to protect him but also guilt for ignoring Barbara’s concerns.

Barbara had tried talking to him on a few occasions after the warehouse incident, trying to get
him to listen to the trouble Dick had gotten himself into. He never listened and he hates to
admit that he had told her ‘If Dick wants to do things on his own then he is more than capable
of looking after himself’. He will never forgive himself for that. He doesn’t even know why
he’d said that to the female bat because at the time he had been worried by his son’s lack of
contact with anyone. He was lucky that she and Wally had been frequently checking in on his
son because if they hadn’t, he might have buried another child by now.
He didn’t think Dick was going to wake up in the med bay when Oliver brought him in. The
injuries themselves weren’t severe but his son had seemed so still, so… lifeless. The way
Oliver had carried his son into the med bay, it reminded him too much of how he had carried
Jason’s corpse from the wreckage of that warehouse. He had to keep reminding himself that
Dick was breathing, and his pulse was there. Even when J’onn had deemed Dick stable he
couldn’t help the thought that he’d lose him after reading the medical reports, it was the
biggest realisation of how much his son was struggling with everything.

“I agree something needs to be done or put in place, but I worry that doing so will only lead
to him being hurt or…” Bruce spoke up once more not wanting to voice another the thought
of Dick not surviving again. “Whatever is decided must be decided with Nightwing’s safety
as priority, that is to be put first before any ideas to apprehend Deathstroke. We can go after
Slade at a further time, we cannot bring Dick back if he…”

“I understand, you’re his father which means you will have the final say on anything that is
brought forward. Whatever you decide I will stand by the decision because I agree that
Dick’s safety should be the number one priority,” Clark responded agreeing with the dark
knight fully.

Every single member of the league and team would agree that the blue bird’s safety should be
a priority, but some would say that detaining Deathstroke would be part of that, which in
away it is. If they put a stop to the mercenary by apprehending him, they can ensure that he’ll
never hurt their honouree nephew and brother again. However, doing something like that
could put Dick’s life in immediate danger which is the more pressing matter. If Dick enters
the next battle in his current state, chances are that even the minor injuries that are known to
occur at the hands of the mercenary could prove fatal. Deathstroke can always be taken down
at another time, what matters is preserving the life of one of their youngest members.

“I…” Batman started but didn’t know how to voice his gratitude towards his alien best friend.

“I understand, we should probably head in there to try and figure this problem out,” Clark
responded guessing what the detective trying to say. “The sooner we get this done the sooner
you can get back to him.”

Bruce acknowledged the alien with a hum before following him into the conference room
where the other leaguers had been waiting.

Batman approached the head of the table, with the concern being Nightwing and all decisions
having his final say, it was him that had to head the meeting even if he wasn’t the one to call
it.

“We all know why we are here,” Bruce started getting to the point instantly. “One of our own
has been targeted. Deathstroke has returned and has once again targeted Nightwing though
his motives seem to differentiate from previous encounters,” he paused pulling up the files
with the details of Renegade on the holo-display. “Deathstroke’s previous encounters have
been to have Nightwing return to his side as his apprentice Renegade, every time Nightwing
has fought back and eventually Deathstroke would vanish going off the radar. Recent events
however have shown that this time around he is less intent on having Nightwing join him, but
he is still trying to hurt him both physically and mentally.”
“Regarding his mental state, how is he holding up?” Dinah asked having not seen her patient
since bringing him back to Mount Justice with Oliver and before that it was when her session
with the teen was hijacked by Batman.

“I wish I could say he was doing better, but Deathstroke has also sent a video file to him, it
was disposed of before I could view it, but I have reason to suspect the contents may have
been linked to Robin,” Bruce answered honestly not seeing any point in keeping any
information from those in the room. “He is being monitored closely and once he is more
recovered physically then we will discuss his continuation of therapy.”

“I will make sure I’m available for when the time comes,” Dinah responded.

“Should we be worried about the video Deathstroke sent to the hall and the team?” Barry
asked the question they all wanted to, only doing so with the conversation leading towards
the teen’s mental health.

“Currently, No,” Bruce answered. “The video is years old; it was footage acquired during
Nightwing’s time as Renegade, I do not believe him doing anything similar to that witnessed
in the footage is cause for concern at this moment. However, when Deathstroke had a
package delivered to Nightwing there was a loaded gun within its contents, the same one
within the video footage and a note trying to goad him into doing so. The items have been
destroyed along with the flash drive that had the video sent to him on by his request, so I
believe in that department we needn’t worry.”

The other members nodded but all of them including Bruce were still concerned and likely
always would be. When seeing someone you care for almost do something like that, it sticks
with you and even when they seem completely fine you will always be terrified that one day,
they will see that as there only option and allow the temptation to win.

“For now, our main concern is how to ensure Nightwing’s safety. Deathstroke has requested a
meeting with him tomorrow night, in Gotham…”

“If we have a location then would it not be best to apprehend him?” Diana questioned though
she’d much rather end the mercenary for causing her nephew so much pain over the years.

“No, though I would like nothing more then to put a stop to him the risk off attempting to do
so currently would be too great a risk to Nightwing,” Bruce replied growling the ‘No’ in his
statement. “In his current state Nightwing is in no shape to fight however should he not
attend Deathstroke will cause further harm, which will be the same result should we step in
between them…”

The meeting continued for longer than any of them expected. Every time someone suggested
something a fault would be realised with their plane. Slade wants it to be difficult for them,
knowing they won’t put the teen at risk.

Diana had suggested they permanently remove Deathstroke from the equation as she had
done many times when the problem first arised back when Dick was still Robin though she
knew the dark knight would not stand for it. It wasn’t just because of his no-kill code, it was
because of the promise he made to Dick. His son had made him promise that no-one would
kill Deathstroke in his name and Bruce had agreed so the death wouldn’t be on his little boy’s
conscience. He might want Slade dead, but he refused to break his promise.

In the end they still didn’t have much of a plan. They had many ideas, but it was a question of
whether it was worth the risk or not. Even with what they had decided there was the worry of
if Deathstroke would deem it as going against his rules. It shouldn’t be this difficult, but they
have all seen the pain and suffering the mercenary has caused the teen over years and they
just won’t to stop any further hurt from occurring to the blue bird.
 Rooftop Sanctuary

Gotham City, June 16th, 7:18PM

Bruce had not long since got back from the Watchtower, the meeting having taken so much
longer than anticipated. He hated being away from his son that long, especially when the plan
to keep him safe is so risky.

He’d been quick to change from cape and cowl to civilian attire wanting to be upstairs before
Dick woke up, so he wasn’t alone. The red heads had left when they got the younger to sleep
promising to check back in soon.

When Bruce reached the teen’s room his heart stopped finding the bed empty only starting
again when he felt the cool breeze coming from the open window. Most parents would be
worried, but Bruce knew that when Dick needed time to think he’d often seek sanctuary in
high places as it made him feel a form of freedom. The was a slight worry given Dick’s lower
physical health, but he pushed it down trusting his son wouldn’t have gone out there if he
wasn’t capable.

Approaching the open window, he was able to pick out the quiet words from his boy and
decided to hold back on making his presence know given Dick was talking in Romani.

“Manglemas te zhanav les mai mishto, numa gindiv ke lena sama lestar ai sikavava les mai
mishto sar me sagda. Ai mangav te phenav ke si ma nasul ke... Zhanav ke kana zhanav so
tradia, chi mangava khonik anda tumende te na avela pala mande, ai shinav ke chi avela pala
kodia, ferdi te na avela. Jači žanes. Nashti mai zhav pa kado drom, akana gindiv ke te thava
les tut mai iek data te iertiva ma (I wish I got to know him better but I'm hoping you'll look
after him and treat him better than I ever did. I also want to say I'm sorry for... for considering
that when I realised what he sent, I know none of you would want that for me and I promise
it won't come to that unless... well you know. I can't go through that again, so I'm hoping if I
do get put in that situation again, you'll forgive me)”

Bruce’s heart had stopped once more when he realised what his son was saying. He can’t
allow that to happen, he can’t lose Dick too. His poor boy, to even consider that. Bruce is
even more determined to keep Slade away from his son now. He refuses to let the mercenary
be the reason he has to bury another child.

“Drago mange savorhenge, ai shinav te zhanav ke chi mai sigo avava tumensa, marka ke chi
mangava tumendar kanchi mai sigo, ai dava ma so godi dashtiva te dav tumensa savorhensa
duma. (I love you all and I promise to ensure that I don't join you anytime time soon even
though I miss you all and would give anything to be able to talk to you all in person again.)”

“Oh Dickie,” Bruce whispered to himself allowing a single tear to fall.

He waited when the voice stopped, the only sound now being that of an average summer
dusk partnered with quiet sniffles. Positive Dick wasn’t going to continue he final climb out
the window himself to his son’s rooftop sanctuary.
Dick was facing away from him and showed no signs of noticing his presence even with
purposely loud footfalls. The teen was sat facing towards the private cemetery on the manor
grounds where his family was buried along with Jason and Bruce’s own parents. His knees
were up to his chest, his chin resting at he tops of his knees and arms wrapped around
himself.

Bruce sat beside him and wrapped a protective arm around his shoulders, Dick accepted the
comfort leaning into the touch moving his head to lean on Bruce. Neither spoke for a moment
content on basking in the comfort they provided each other as they watched the over their
loved ones in the setting sun.

“How much did you hear?” Dick asked after a few minutes silence, a few tears still falling
down his cheeks.

“Not much,” Bruce replied idly tracing Dick’s upper arm with the hand wrapped around him.
“Just the last of it when you saying you loved and missed them.”

Dick leant further into the embrace accepting the answer as he closed his eyes breathing in
his father’s sent to ground him.

“You doing, okay?” Bruce asked already knowing the answer.

It was a stupid question; he knows but it gave Dick the option to talk to him rather than bottle
it up. He knows his son isn’t okay, it’s why the teen was on the roof speaking to his family.
He knows Dick isn’t okay even without him seeking comfort like this.

“No,” Dick answered with another sniffle and choked off sob as he bit his lip to conceal
further cries. “Do… Do you think they’d…”

“No,” Bruce answered cutting the boy off already knowing what his son was going to ask.
“No, they would never be disappointed in you. I may have only ever met Rick, but I know
that they could never be disappointed in you, in fact I believe they would be immensely
proud of how far you’ve come because I know I am. I am so proud of you Dick, and I know I
don’t say that often enough, but everyday you make me the proudest man on earth. I know
things are hard right now and I know I’ve not been the best person to you recently, but I
promise it’s all going to change. I promise on my parents’ graves that I am going to do better
by you, that I am going to change to be a better father for you.”

And he will keep that promise till the day he dies. His poor parenting pushed his son away
which allowed Deathstroke to get close enough to hurt his son and no doubt the mercenary
would have used the rift between them to play on Dick’s mind, play on his self-doubts and
low self-esteem. He would have used it to pull the strings to try and break the boy and Bruce
had made it worse by being an even worse father. Looking back now he suspects the
warehouse explosion in ‘Haven may have been a ploy by Deathstroke to push them further
apart. By putting Dick in a life-threatening situation that mirrored how he lost Jason, the
mercenary knew he’d lose his temper out of fear.

And he did, he even threw Jason’s death into the argument to try and get through to Dick. He
unknowingly played a game that Deathstroke likely had wanted, and it could have cost him
Dick’s life. If he had lost Dick, Bruce would never have forgiven himself.

“And I also promise that things will get better, it’ll take time, but you’ll get through this and
I’m going to be by your side every step of the way so long as you’ll let me,” Bruce continued
as a damp patch started growing on his shirt from Dick’s tears. “And even if you don’t want
me there, I will do everything I can to help you in anyway you want me to.”

“Thank you,” is all Dick managed to get out before burying his head further into Bruce.

“You don’t have to thank me Kiddo, just promise me that you’ll accept the help available to
you, I love you so much Dick and I know that’s also something I don’t say much but I do.
Love you so much and I can’t stand the thought of you hurting so please promise me that
once this is all over, you’ll accept the offered help rather than try and handle it alone,” Bruce
comforted tightening his hold on his son to emphasise the love he had for the boy.

“I promise,” Dick agreed melting further into the embrace. “And I love you too Dad.”

‘Dad’, hearing it almost made Bruce allow a few more of his own tears to spill after not
hearing it in a loving way like this since before Dick moved out. Sure, he’d called him ‘Tati’
a few times waking up from nightmares but that wasn’t the same. Neither was when Dick
requested, he speak to his ‘Dad’ in the med bay at Mount Justice rather than the cowl of
Batman. They way it was said now was the same way it had been said the first time Dick had
ever called him the title and it warmed his heart just as much as it had back then. To know his
boy still associated him with that title was a great honour especially after what he’d done
which should have resulted in the revocation of the privilege of hearing Dick call him ‘Dad’.

They fell into a comfortable silence once more, both realising how much they missed
moments like this when they were just father and son. Times where they could forget any
existential crisis and the duties the cape brings and just bask in each other’s company like a
normal family. There may be a mercenary out there wanting to hurt the teen but for now, in
this moment Dick was safe and they didn’t have to worry about the threat of Deathstroke.

They didn’t have to but that doesn’t mean that they aren’t.

Dick couldn’t get his mind fully off Slade even with his father staring to brush through the
hair at the nape of his neck, a gesture that would usually release any tension he was
harbouring. He knows that in a little over twenty-four hours he will be facing Deathstroke
once more and even though he hates to admit he was still scared of the man, he was terrified
for that meeting. He knows Slade will not purposely try to kill him but even Dick’s not so
stupid to believe he will survive the confrontation in his condition. He’d been lucky over the
past month every time he went against Deathstroke not to be killed even if that hadn’t been
the mercenary’s intent.

He’d come close to dying a few times over the past few weeks. Nearly falling of the roof
fighting Slade, the warehouse explosion, Ryder, almost… almost picking up that gun and…
What if this time he isn’t so lucky? What if this time Slade succeeds in killing him even if he
hadn’t meant to.
“Bruce?” Dick broke the silence between them moving slightly to peer up at his father from
where he’d been nestled into the man’s embrace.

Bruce hummed to show he was listening to anything the boy needed to say.

“I… Tomorrow, when… I…” Dick worried at his bottom lip trying to piece together what he
wants to say without bursting into another puddle of tears. “I have to go, if I don’t people will
get hurt and I… I just want you to know that… well if anything happens and…”

Bruce softly hushed the teen already knowing where that conversation was heading. He
didn’t need to think about that again today. He didn’t need to think about Dick not coming
home to him alive.

“You’ll be okay,” Bruce started thinking now was probably the best time to tell the boy of the
plan in place. “You won’t be anywhere near him, hopefully.”

“But I… He’ll hurt people if…”

“Shhh, there’s a plan in place,” Bruce soothed continuing the comforting gesture of fiddling
with his son’s hair “It’s risky and I’m not convinced it will completely work but I’m willing
to attempt it if it keeps you safe.”

“W-what is it?” Dick asked his voice shaking slightly.

“J’onn…”

“No!” Dick shut down the idea immediately without even hearing it, he wasn’t going to let
anyone put their life at risk for him. “He’ll know instantly, he’ll know it’s not me and he’ll
kill J’onn.”

“Dick…”

“No, Bruce I… I can’t do it, I can’t be the reason someone else dies, I can’t…” Dick faltered
off as his father pulled him impossibly closer and tears began to fall freely once more. “I-It
has to be me; he’ll know if it isn’t you know he will…”

Bruce hushed the boy once more as he tried to soothe him knowing Dick was right, it’s why
he hadn’t like the idea in the first place. Firstly, Deathstroke knows Dick to well to not realise
that the person meeting him was an imposter. Then there was the fact that the mercenary
seemed to always know where Dick was, as he had proven when he confronted Bruce
revealing he knew the long-term mission the teen was on was in Europe. He still didn’t know
how Slade knew that, not for lack of trying to find answers, his best guess was Deathstroke
had a contact to keep him informed should Nightwing appear overseas. He had still agreed to
the idea of J’onn posing as Nightwing out of just wanting to keep his son safe, but he knew it
was a foolish plan, it had just seemed like the only one that would for the most part keep
Dick safe. Then again, as soon as the mercenary would have outed J’onn and most likely
killed him, he’d go back after Dick to hurt him worse for trying to trick him and not
following the rules.
“I know, I knew it was a bad idea, but I didn’t want you to get hurt or…” Bruce continued
faltering off once again not needing images of his son returning in a body bag in his mind.
“We won’t do it; we’ll follow the rules Deathstroke has set but I promise I’m not going to let
him take you from me.”

It was a dangerous promise, he knows but it was one that had to be made. It was one of those
promises he tried to avoid making for the simple reason being it might not be one he could
keep. He would though. He will do everything he can to make sure that Deathstroke will not
be the reason he loses his son.

“I promise to do everything I can to make sure you are safe, you mean the world to me Dick
and I can’t bare the thought of losing you,” Bruce assured kissing the crown of his son’s head
to show how much he truly cared.

“I don’t won’t to lose you either,” Dick replied though it was muffled from where he was
buried in Bruce’s embrace.

“You won’t, not anytime soon anyway,” Bruce reassured once again knowing it wasn’t fair to
make that statement, especially in their line of work but he needed to comfort his son.

“I love you, Dad.”

His heart warmed again at hearing that title in such an affectionate way even with it being
quieted by where Dick was pressed against him. He will never get tired of hearing his son
refer to him that way and will always be as happy to hear it as the first time he heard it.

“I love you too, son.”

Dick seemed to relax even further with Bruce’s declaration of love for him. The father
knowing it’s because he doesn’t say those words enough despite how he has always known
he felt that way. From the day he brought that bright-eyed, energetic eight-year-old acrobat
into his home he knew he loved the boy and would do anything he could to protect him. He
may have failed on the later of that more times than he’d like to admit, but he had never and
will never stop loving his boy. He loves Dick Grayson more than any child could love a
parent, and that boy is his son in every single way except blood no matter what anyone
thinks.

“Bruce?” Dick’s voice drew his attention back from the admiring thoughts.

Bruce hummed in response peering down at the teary yet vibrant sapphire eyes he will
always miss when the teen isn’t around.

“They’d be proud of you too,” Dick said the same admiration and love Bruce felt for him
reflecting in his eyes. “Your parents, they’d be proud of everything you’ve done.”

“I couldn’t have done half of that without you,” Bruce further tightened his embrace on the
boy, his son as they fell back into a heartwarming comfortable silence content to watch the
sun continue setting and forget about their current problems for a short while.
 Trying To Cope, Just Not Very Well

Palo Alto, June 17th, 9:21AM

Wally had been on edge since leaving his brother yesterday and his worry had only increased
after receiving a call from Barry earlier to inform him that the plan that had been in place was
no-more. A part of him was glad that the plan was shut down knowing that it wouldn’t have
fooled the mercenary and would have caused Dick further pain. However, the other part of
him was terrified for the younger teen knowing that he would be meeting with the mercenary
in a little over twelve hours.

“If we lose our security deposit, I will be making you repay me,” Artemis teased in a slightly
annoyed tone.

She had been watching the speedster now for the better part of an hour and was surprised he
hadn’t already worn a hole in the floor with his pacing. She understood his worry fully, she
knew how close he and Dick were, but his continuous nervous pacing wasn’t going to any
help and as his speed picked up it had started to become irritating.

It seemed however the red head either hadn’t heard her or was choosing to ignore her as he
continued the anxious habit. It wasn’t until she threw a cushion at him did, he stop only just
noticing her presence as he looked at her awkwardly having not realised what he was doing
until he was still.

“Sorry,” Wally smiled sheepishly rubbing the back of his neck a nervous tick he picked up
from Dick. “I…”

“You’re worried, I know but wearing a hole into the floor won’t do any good,” Artemis
replied coming to embrace the red head knowing he typically relaxed in her touch.

“I know, it’s just yesterday he said some stuff that has honestly terrified me,” Wally said
calming slightly in his girlfriend’s embrace.

“Do you want to talk about it?” Artemis asked already knowing he’d decline wanting to
protect Dick’s privacy.

“I wish I could,” Wally admitted which shocked the archer slightly as normally he was tight-
lipped in these situations. “But I can’t it wouldn’t be far on him, I just hope me and Roy,
more Roy than me got through to him,” Wally continued cringing when he realised, he’s said
more than he really should have. “I need to shut up before I say anything else.”

“Are you okay?” Artemis asked in response seeing that whatever Dick had said had more
than terrified the speedster. “Well, okay aside from being worried for Dick?”

“Yeah, it’s just…” Wally started faltering off and shaking his head. “Never mind, I can’t say
anything about that.”
“Well if you need to talk, I’m here for you,” Artemis assured, then something crossed her
mind that may distract the ginger and maybe cheer him up even if only for a little while. “I do
have some good news.”

Wally hummed moving his head from where it head been resting on her to look into her dark
eyes that somehow managed to contain a warmth within.

“Well, you know how when we moved here, we made sure to get a place that allowed pets?”
Artemis questioned please to a small smile creeping on the red head’s face. “Well one of the
girls in class had mentioned her dog was expecting and she called yesterday to ask if we
we’re still interested as the pups are ready to leave their mom.”

“You sure, thought you were more of a cat person,” Wally smiled down at her she always
knew how to distract him from his problems.

“We’ll be getting him next week,” Artemis answered holding back her own smile at seeing
the speedster happy.

He had been so distracted over the past few weeks, constantly worrying about Dick and the
trouble he kept getting himself into. She understood, they were best friends, more than that
they were brothers, she herself saw the little troll as a brother. He had always excepted her
and that’s even with knowing her past and that she had been lying when she first joined the
team.

She might not show her concern for the blue bird as much as the speedster, but it was still
there, she just kept it hidden to be there to support Wally in moments like these. She may also
keep it because of advice she had received only a few years ago from a certain bird as she
knew that worrying wouldn’t help the situation.

“Babe, I love you, thank you,” Wally said softly as he leant down further to kiss his girlfriend
as a show of gratitude and reinforce his love for her. “Thank you for always being there to get
me out my head.”

“Love you too Baywatch,” she smiled back, her heat warming knowing that she had
comforted him enough to calm him down even if it will only be temporary.

Star City, June 17th, 10:13AM

Red Arrow was becoming restless, and it had only grown worse since talking with Dick
yesterday. He wanted to go hunt Deathstroke down himself, maybe even see if Jade would be
willing to provide her services if it meant that psycho couldn’t hurt his friend further. As it
was, he was lucky Oliver agreed to allow him to go to Gotham yesterday considering he’s
supposed to be recuperating after his months of being held captive.

Normally he wouldn’t care about what Oliver requested of him given he was no longer his
protégé, but he felt obligated to stick around with everything going and to offer his former
mentor peace of mind. The latter being the reason he had still ensured to check in with the
elder archer knowing how much the man would have worried otherwise. Most wouldn’t
expect it given how the emerald archer was a lot easier going but when it came to being over-
protective, he was just as bad as Batman is towards his birds.

Speaking of over-protective, “I thought you said you’d take it easy today.”

The clone halted the punching bag from its swinging, pausing his assault on the equipment.

“I agreed to not partake in night-time activities, I didn’t agree to bedrest protocols,” Red
Arrow responded supressing the urge to role his eyes at the man’s mother-henning.

“I never said anything about bedrest,” Oliver said, not wanting to argue. “But you do need to
take it slower, you didn’t exactly get out of that mess unscathed.”

“What I need is to get my hands on Wilson,” Red Arrow spat, punching the bag again. “As if
he hadn’t done enough already, he…” Roy’s rant faltered off, it wasn’t his place to say
anything about how Dick broke down yesterday, unless he was talking to the younger’s
guardians about it. “I should have been here back when this all started rather than leaving…”

“Roy, you had stuff of your own going on, you can’t blame yourself for anything that
happened back then, nor can you blame yourself for anything going on now, this is just one of
those things that comes with this business, and it’s one of those things that all of us wish we
could put a stop to or prevent,” Oliver explained hoping he wasn’t over-stepping.

“I still should have been here for him, when the truth came out about what I am, he made sure
to help where he could in the search and with the jobs I was doing in-between. And maybe if
I hadn’t been careless looking into Ryder’s business, he wouldn’t have been able to nab me
which would have prevented Wilson getting his hands back on him and Ryder,” Red Arrow
argued though it wasn’t directed at is former mentor.

He was just frustrated. He felt useless not being able to anything to help with the situation
with Deathstroke. Then again, even if he wasn’t currently recovering it’s not like he’d have
been able to do much because of Deathstroke’s game.

Batman had even shut down the plan the league had come up with despite having agreed to it
originally. The dark knight hadn’t given reason for shutting down the mission, but Roy knew
that it was likely a request of Dick’s. He knows how Dick would have reacted to the idea; he
knows the younger would have refused it as it would put someone else in the firing line of
Deathstroke’s cruelty.

“Roy, I don’t think you could have done anything that would have changed what Wilson has
done to Dick. The man’s a killer, a killer that is determined to cause that kid pain, even if you
had stuck around or if you hadn’t been caught by Ryder, Wilson would have found a way to
get to him. He had the whole of the league looking out for him and we failed, I know its hard
to hear but you being there wouldn’t have made a difference,” Oliver explained his voice
taking on a softer edge that he reserved for his former protégé. “The only thing you could
have helped with were you to have been around was his recovery when they got him back,
but even then, chances are it still would have taken just as long for him to start healing as it
had back then.
Red Arrow hated it, but his former mentor was right, though he wouldn’t say that out loud.
Dick had the full Justice League and the team looking out for him when Wilson’s intentions
were first revealed and yet he was still taken, he was still hurt, and he almost died. Not even
the full forces of the cape community were able to prevent that from happening so why
would his presence of made a difference. Either way he was still going to stay around this
time round.

Sure, he had other leads to follow up on but if he contacted Jade, she might be able to look
into those while he took some time off. She’ll probably want to kill him herself since he went
of the radar just after they got married but he’s hoping she’ll understand once he has chance
to explain. That’s unlikely she isn’t exactly the understanding type but then again, she knows
what Deathstroke put the first Robin through as she had offered slight assistance during the
days of Renegade.

“I need to go make a call,” Red Arrow sighed brushing passed the blonde not acknowledging
the man when he tried to reach out to him further.

Gotham City, June 17th, 1:17PM

When Barbara arrived at the manor earlier to check in with Dick, she didn’t know what to say
to him having found him on the rooftop looking towards the private cemetery on the grounds.
She knows he’s hurting in more ways than one and didn’t want to say anything that may have
pushed him further into the pain. Though seeing his lost gaze focused on the gravesite she
took the risk in suggesting they visit and was surprised he agreed.

That is where she found herself now, with him wrapped in her arms as he broke down seeing
his baby brother’s headstone. She should have expected the reaction, with everything that had
gone one over the past month he hadn’t visited the grave yet. It probably didn’t help that
Jason’s grave was located almost directly next to the plot where Dick’s family was, the space
between reserved should…

No, she didn’t want those thoughts, not when he might very well…

She worried for him. She didn’t agree about tonight with or without the plan they shouldn’t
be messing with Deathstroke. She didn’t want the younger teen in her arms to be hurt
however no matter what they did he would be, and it only be worse if eh didn’t do as
requested by the mercenary.

She knows the man is dangerous, she herself could have been killed by him a few nights ago,
not that Dick new about that. It was agreed that that was to be kept from him as the night
hadn’t resulted in any injuries and because of the state he had been in that night.

She had seen his depression, anxiety and PTSD before but that night… She had never heard
him like that. The absolute pain in his cries even they had been muffled where he’d pressed
against Alfred in an embrace. She had also never been present when Bruce or Alfred had to
sedate Dick during those moments when he was inconsolable, it broke her heart to see them
having to resort to that. She knows it was necessary, but she almost cried herself seeing the
brief flash of fear in his eyes when the needle first pierced his skin.
She was trying to keep her tears at bay now, wanting to be there to comfort her best friend but
she was finding it difficult. It hurt even more knowing that Jason had been gone almost two
months and Dick hadn’t been present for the funeral and hadn’t been able to visit him until
now. It wasn’t his fault, but that’s why it was upsetting because he deserved to be able to
mourn his brother, not have his life played with by a cold-blooded killer.

He'd all but collapsed when she brought him down here and his eyes locked onto the
headstone bearing his brother’s name.

Jason Peter Todd-Wayne

Beloved Son, Grandson, Brother and Friend

1999-2014

Dick had fell to his knees and shattered, it was as if seeing the grave had made the death of
his brother that much more real which in a way it had. He hadn’t known about the death until
almost a month after it occurred and he hadn’t been to the funeral because of Bruce being…
Words Barbara would rather not think about as he was trying now, though she still was not
happy with him.

When Dick started to calm down eventually, she eased her hold around him and tried to offer
some comfort through words, “he idolised you, wanted to try and prove he was just as
capable as you.”

It wasn’t what he wanted or needed to hear but she didn’t know what to say to him, she’d
never been through the pain of losing someone close to her before so wasn’t great with the
comforting side of things when it came to that. She may have also lost something in Jason
and in some ways saw him as an annoying little brother, but they weren’t as close as Dick had
started getting to the boy. True Dick wasn’t all that welcoming at first and kept his distance,
but he realised that Jason hadn’t done anything wrong, and his problem wasn’t with the
younger teen but with Bruce. After that he made sure to undo any damage, he caused in the
relationship he had with his brother and the two quickly became close but then the Joker had
to destroy that.

“Sorry, I know you probably don’t want to hear stuff like that now,” Barbara apologized
when Dick remained silent.

His silence wasn’t because of what she had said but because he couldn’t get out of his head.
All he could hear was the continued SMACK of the crowbar used to hurt his little brother
and every time he so much as glances at the plot where Jason is buried all he can see is his
battered form with that look of acceptance.

“I-It’s not that,” Dick choked, sniffling to stop himself from cracking again. “I-I just wish I g-
got to know him better.”

Barbara could tell there was more but didn’t press, already having suspicions that the video
he had watched was likely something to do with it. She regrets not staying that night, but she
couldn’t without risking her father being worried or getting suspicious. She should have
stayed, maybe he would have opened up to her about it as she knows he hasn’t mentioned it
to anyone else.

“I do too,” Barbara said instead of voicing those regrets or trying to push for details on what
was actually going on in her friend’s head knowing she wouldn’t get answers.

They fell in silence, Dick having finally stood and removed himself from her embrace
wanting a moment to say goodbye to his Little Wing. She watched as his hand brushed over
the headstone before he started tracing the engraved words with his fingers. When he started
speaking is when she averted her gaze and even took a step back to offer him some form of
privacy. She stayed silent and allowed him the moment he more than deserved to say his
goodbye and hopefully obtain a slight amount of closure.
 Trying To Be Realistic

Gotham City, June 17th, 5:57PM

After Barbara had left, Dick had returned to his rooftop hideaway, which wasn’t much of a
hideaway considering how those who had checked-in always knew to find him there. He
doesn’t mind the interruptions they stop him getting lost in his head something he has been
doing far too often.

Seeing Jason earlier had trapped him in his mind for a while, enough that he almost forgot
about the upcoming meeting with Deathstroke. Almost. In the back of his mind the nerves
were still there but the grief overpowered it. Not only had it truly hit that his brother wasn’t
coming back but seeing the inscription on the headstone showed that he hadn’t been
completely forgotten. It may have wrong for him to have focused on that for a few moments
while he examined the tomb but after everything, he’s just glad to know that even if Bruce
hadn’t thought to tell him off Jason’s passing at least he still saw him as the younger teen’s
brother enough for the word to be within the engraving.

While down there he had sat with his family and spoke to them something else he’d been
doing more often recently. He’s putting it down as a trauma response to almost losing the
thing that kept him close to them but really, it’s because he’s afraid that the brief thought he
had would have them disappointed in him.

Talking with Bruce last night had helped push that fear aside but not by much and he doesn’t
think it will be a fear that will ever fade fully. Or it could be that the conversation with his
father hadn’t solved all his problems because he still had to meet with Slade.

In a few short hours he’ll be donning the Nightwing suit and will be on the rooftop of the
Wayne Tech facility where they first crossed paths. Just thinking about it made goosebumps
rise along his skin and send a chill done his spine despite the warm summer breeze.

The uneasiness from not being able to reach his mentor and not discovering the heat
signatures aside from there own via the sensors in the building. The anxiety growing when he
hadn’t been able to get through to the Bat-Cave to check-in with Alfred to see if he was able
to reach Bruce. Then he turned to head on the path that would have led him to Batman but
was stopped but the strong grip which he now knows the extra strength was caused by the
serum Deathstroke was exposed to during his time in the military. He remembers the fear of
being restrained and unable to call out or fight back, how it increased when he pieced
together who had him trapped. The predatory tone of Slade’s voice as he’d spoke had sent
chills through him and made him feel like a child for not being able to fight back…

“Master Richard, are you out there?”

He shook the memory off hearing Alfred’s voice, taking deep calming breaths before trying
to voice an answer.
“Yeah Alfred, ju-just give me a second,” he called back knowing the butler wouldn’t be like
Bruce and climb out the window to join his sanctuary.

There was no response from the elder gentlemen which Dick had expected he knows Alfred’s
dislike for having conversations in elevated tones from across the house, or in this case from
him being on the roof and Alfred standing by his bedroom window. Though there was a lack
of response he knows Alfred would patiently wait as it was common knowledge in the
household his tendency to seek high places when he needs a moment. He spent another
minute or so going through the routine breathing exercises that he’d memorised long ago to
rid the panic the memories had brought up before finally deciding to head back inside.

As expected, Alfred was stood waiting for him, with the same saddened expression he always
carried when one of his charges were hurting though recently it seemed to be his normal
expression.

Dick attempted to lighten his surrogate grandfather’s expression with a small smile but failed
miserably when he lost his footing as he climbs in through the window. He was able to right
himself, so he didn’t fall but the minor slip up was enough to worry Alfred as he was at his
side in an instant to assist him, so he didn’t fall.

“I’m alright Alfred, just tired,” Dick tried to brush off the incident already knowing that
wouldn’t work.

“While I believe you Richard, you and I both know that this is more than you not being well-
rested,” Alfred responded as he sat the teen on the edge of the bed giving him a once over to
ensure he hadn’t injured himself when he slipped.

“I’m not hurt Alfred,” Dick assured knowing he’d given the elder a slight fright considering
if his stumble had been in the opposite direction, he wouldn’t be having this conversation.

Satisfied the boy was unharmed Alfred redirected his focus, “I was hoping I would be able to
encourage you to have a light dinner before… before you depart this evening.”

He knew this was coming. He hadn’t eaten all day despite both Bruce and Alfred trying to
entice him to, it’s why he’d spent most of the day in his upper sanctuary. He just didn’t see
the point in wasting anything knowing that it wouldn’t stay down with how his stomach had
been churning incessantly all day. He knows he should eat because it will boost his energy a
little for what’s coming but he just can’t bring himself to, if he does it only brings him closer
to the inevitable confrontation. Not that putting of eating will delay what’s coming but for
some reason he feels like it will make it seem further away than the few hours.

“Richard, I know you may not necessarily be hungry right now, but it would ease my mind if
you tried to have something before going out there tonight,” Alfred tried to reason however
he knew this was a battle he might not win. “Please Richard, I only ask you try.”

Hearing Alfred practically pleading hurt. He has very rarely heard his grandfather sound so
desperate, if ever and to know he’s the reason why Alfred sounds that way.
“Okay,” Dick agreed having to swallow the bile in his throat that had risen just at the thought
of food. “I-I’ll try something for you Alfred, but I can’t promise it will be much.”

“All I ask you got some form of nutrition before tonight,” Alfred sighed in relief. “I know it
will not make much of a difference in the battle to come but it will ease my nerves in sending
you out there.”

“I’m sorry Alf I know this is just as hard for you as…”

“I don’t require any apologises Master Richard, least of all from you,” Alfred cut the teen off
so the boy wouldn’t start a bout of self-blaming or degradations. “I just ask that you return in
one piece, injuries we can fix but…” the butler cut off shaking his head not wanting to voice
that thought in case it came true. “

“I know,” Dick said knowing what was left unsaid. “And I’m going to do what I can to make
sure that doesn’t happen but Alfred if it does…”

“It won’t,” Alfred interrupted the boy was again his voice now sterner closer to his usual tone
of voice. “You are not going to let it come to that Richard.” While he may have spoken so
certain inside, he was praying, ‘Please my boy, I beg of you don’t allow him to take you away
from us again, I will not survive that, and Master Bruce will surely get himself killed should
he lose you.’

Seeing the pain reflected in Alfred’s eyes Dick stayed silent sensing what his grandfather was
fearing. He knows it’s not fair to say these things, but he was trying to be realistic, and he
wanted to make sure he was able to tell the man who had helped raise him how much he
loved and appreciated him. It’s what he had tried to do with Bruce last night, but his father
hadn’t allowed him to voice it either. He knows they don’t need the thoughts of him not
getting out of this alive especially after the loss of Jason but he’s trying to be realistic.

There is a chance he won’t come back alive tonight, whether that be because Deathstroke is
sick of wasting his time and kills him or he’s injured and is too weak to hold out till he can’t
get help, or he simply slips off the roof like he just nearly did now. He wants to believe Slade
won’t actively try to kill him as the man always mentions wasted time and effort when
questioned why he doesn’t just do that but even if Deathstroke isn’t the one to end him there
are still ways that tonight may very well be his last fight.

He wants to be realistic, but he can’t bring himself to deny his pseudo-grandfather the hope
the elder man has that he will return to them alive and not in a body bag, “you’re right
Alfred, it won’t go that way because I have a family that’s worth fighting for.”

That last part was his true feelings. He did have a family worth fighting for, a family that
hasn’t yet given up on him despite how much he believes they should have. If they haven’t
stopped believing in him then he must keep fighting for them. He might want to be realistic,
but he needs to hold onto the hope that he will win this. Hope is something he was known for
so it’s time he comes out of the darkness Slade has forced him in and step out into the light.
Is it going to be as simple as that, absolutely not, but he has to try and he has to fight, he can’t
let Deathstroke win. His family believe in him, they care for him, they hold hope for him, so
he has to fulfil their wish and come back to them once this is all over. He has to survive in
order to protect them from the darkness that has been taking over him.

“It’s not going to be easy, but I trust my safety net to protect me from the fall,” Dick smiled
smally though inside he was screaming with panic.

“We will all be here for you Richard, that you can count on,” Alfred promised squeezing his
charge’s shoulder for reassurance. “Now I believe it’s best we head downstairs before Master
Bruce starts worrying why we have taken so long.”

“Yeah,” Dick sighed trying to keep his nerves inside for now.

With that the duo began to vacate the childhood room of the teen in silence not wanting to
voice the worry they had for the upcoming events.
 Ready As I'll Ever Be

Gotham City, June 17th, 9:47PM

A little over an hour. That’s how long Dick had before he would be confronted by the
mercenary once more. Was he ready, absolutely not. If he was being fully honest with
himself, he was terrified.

Dinner had gone exactly as he expected, he’d had a few forkfuls of the pasta dish before
excusing himself as the nausea became too much. Bruce had tried to get him to have an
electrolyte drink which he attempted but even that came back up. Still the nausea remained,
his stomach was churning and worsened as the time drew nearer to when he would be
meeting with Deathstroke.

Despite the high anxiety levels and sickness, he’d still come down to the cave with Bruce. He
didn’t have a choice, if he didn’t follow Slade’s request to meet others may be hurt and he
couldn’t let that happen. If it hadn’t been for his father’s presence and steady hand on his
shoulder Dick would have spiralled into multiple panic attacks before he’d separated from the
man to suit up.

The suit Bruce had given him wasn’t his suit. It was a Nightwing suit, but it wasn’t the one he
had been wearing recently. This one had a thicker armour but was still light enough to allow
him to manoeuvre using his usual techniques. It also fit better than his suit compared to when
he’d last wore the uniform, Bruce clearly having had this made recently to accommodate for
his weight loss.

It felt wrong to except the knew uniform from his father given recent events even if Bruce
had been showing he was sorry and had promised to change. It felt wrong but he had no
choice but to accept it as his other suit was still in Blüdhaven and even if he had it one hand it
was probably better if he didn’t wear it in its current state. It was well worn and was due for
replacing especially after the run ins he’s had with Slade over the past month before the
whole Ryder incident. He’d made simple repairs on the suit, but it definitely wasn’t safe for
him to be wearing in the field anymore.

He'd been in the changing area for a while now, he knows he needs to put the suit on, he
knows he can’t just stand there and pretend none of this is happening and yet he’s still trying
to delay the inevitable.

Why? Because he doesn’t know what’s waiting for him. Because he doesn’t think he will
survive a full fledge duel with the mercenary.

Dick has been going through breathing exercises and calming techniques the entire time since
stepping though the entrance to the cave and still his heart feels like it’s about to beat out of
his chest. The dread he’s been feeling all day has been sending a burning pulse through that
scar, the one he pretends isn’t there, the one that marks him as Slade’s. He keeps it hidden,
has done since the day after he showed Wally when Bruce showed the graft patches that were
made to conceal it and make the mangled flesh appear normal. He’s never had to look at it
since that day, Bruce or Alfred always making sure he was asleep when it needed changing as
they were only meant to last a couple months at most. When he moved out Wally took over
that job after finding him in the med-bay at Mount Justice on the verge of tears because he
knew he had to do it himself.

Once again realising he’d started drifting off in his head Dick turned back to the uniform he’d
placed on the bench as soon as he was in the changing area of the cave. He knows if he takes
any longer Bruce will check up on him and he knows he’ll breakdown again if his father is at
his side. Even through their rough patches he has always seen Bruce a symbol of safety and
protection, so he knows he can be vulnerable around the man, something he can’t be now.

He needs to keep himself together just for a little longer. He needs to use the mask as a way
to keep the inner demons at bay and ground him long enough he can deal with Deathstroke.
Like Bruce the mask is a symbol of protection, he can hide behind it to try and brave his
fears. It’s as if the mask acts as a barrier, it’s almost as if it creates a different persona, one
that isn’t afraid or less afraid. As Dick Grayson he can’t fight, but as Robin and now as
Nightwing he can. He can fight those battles Dick Grayson is unable to which is why the fear
and anxiety doesn’t seem as extreme.

With a final shuddering breath, he began to strip from the loose T-shirt and sweatpants to
change into the new Nightwing uniform.

It felt odd donning a suit again and not just because this isn’t the one, he’d been wearing
since changing his name from Robin to the Kryptonian legend. A part of him doesn’t feel
worthy to be wearing it when he is currently a shell of what he was before that mission in
Europe. Before then everything made sense, his life was manageable even with his strained
relationship with his mentor. His brother was alive, and they were getting along, creating a
relationship they should have always had. Slade was off the grid and wasn’t someone he was
constantly fearful of. He was somewhat happy with how his life was a few months ago and
that’s something he hasn’t been able to admit since before Slade.

Once most of the uniform was on, he was instantly able to tell the differences in quality
between what he had been wearing to this new model. It felt better, more comfortable even
with the added weight of the thicker armour. It still felt weird to be wearing the suit, but this
was a lot better than the tattered one he’d been wearing for a year. The stability of the new
suit almost acts as a placebo to make him feel stable as well, but he knows the truth. While
the uniform provides a confidence boost deep down, he still isn’t ready for what’s coming
and is worried he will break the promise to Alfred that he would be coming back alive
tonight.

The mask is all that’s left. He’s applied the spirit gum to adhere it to his face but is afraid of
putting it on.

It feels like a foreign object in his hand despite wearing one almost every night since he was
nine years old. His hands shook as he held the domino, a part of him wanting to toss it and
forget all the pain that comes with donning it. His pain hadn’t started with masks, but it was a
catalyst for every other terrible tragedy in his life. Despite how much he wants to abandon the
domino, he knows he can’t, not without endangering the lives of those he cares about.
He made an oath, and he has to stick by it. He swore to protect those who cannot protect
themselves and keep those he loves safe by fighting for them. He promised himself he would
do everything possible to save everyone even if those odds seem impossible. If he tosses the
mask, he breaks his oath and promise. He fails the duty he swore to fulfil when he first
became a hero. He may not wear the name his mother gave him anymore but if he breaks the
oath when he became Robin then he dishonours her and the rest of his family.

He has no choice but to face his fears tonight. Ready or not he will be meeting with
Deathstroke and playing his game. He will be taking the risk of going against the man who
has tried to break him and has almost succeeding in killing him, and tonight he may succeed
in ending his life.

A final deep breath and Dick pushes the mask in place, holding it down until he is certain it is
secure.

Just as he was gaining the confidence to head to the main sector of the cave to meet Bruce the
billionaire’s voice called out, “Dick, are you okay in there, you’ve been a while?”

“Yeah,” Dick responded trying to keep the nerves and unsteadiness out of his voice. “I’ll be
out in a second.”

Bruce didn’t respond so Dick took that as permission he could have a final moment of
solitude though he knows he can’t wait around much longer. They still need to get to the
Wayne Tech facility and at the Bat-Mobile’s speed it will take around twenty minutes to get
there from the outskirts of the city.

Bruce isn’t going to be joining him on the roof where he is meeting the mercenary, instead
Batman will be hidden nearby ready to intervene should it seem as though Slade has had
enough of Dick’s refusal. Even though his father won’t be at his side, Dick feels safer
knowing he’ll be nearby should things turn deadly which he is praying they don’t and
Deathstroke sticks to his rule of he won’t kill him. Either way he knows if things do go down
that road or if he makes a mistake like he has in previous duels Bruce will be there to catch
him. Slade’s rules say he can’t have anyone fight with him they don’t say anything about
have someone as a safety net to catch him.

He avoids the mirror on his way out of the changing area not ready to look at himself in
costume just yet.

Bruce is stood waiting for him, in full gear though the cowl is down as the man knows his
son needs his father and not Batman before they head on out. The father can tell his boy isn’t
ready for this, it’s written all over him from the way he’s worrying at his lip to the unsteady
breathing from staggered relaxation patterns. He can see Dick’s uncertainty as clear as day
and his heartaches for him, he just wishes he could make this all go away.

Unfortunately, he’s been trying to get rid of the threat causing all of this for the past few
years, but his efforts have proven useless. A part of him almost wishes he had never made the
vow to his parents and his promise to Dick as it would have allowed him to permanently
remove Deathstroke from his son’s life by ending that of the mercenary.
“Bruce, I want you to know… well if anything happens tonight…” Dick tried wanting to
make sure the man who raised him knows he doesn’t hate him and that he loves him.

“Dick, don’t,” Bruce cut in bringing his gloved hand to cup his son’s face, grateful that
despite what he had done to the boy only a month prior his son didn’t flinch or pull away and
leant into the touch. “I know what you’re going to say but don’t.”

He does know. He knows that his son is going to try and offer some form of closure and say
goodbye should things go wrong tonight but he doesn’t want to hear it. Bruce refuses to think
that tonight will be the last night he has with his eldest son, and he won’t allow Dick to think
that way either. Realistically he knows that it could go that way but as a father he has a duty
to make sure it doesn’t happen. He can’t. He can’t lose Dick. His son. His light in the
darkness. It is his job to make sure that Dick returns to night alive and hopefully in one piece
though he knows the latter is easy said than done.

“Bruce…”

“No, Dick, I won’t allow you to voice that possibility because it is one, I refuse to let
happen,” Bruce protested at Dick’s attempts to try to push forward. “I can’t let it happen, not
again, I refuse to fail like that again. Please son, I can’t lose you too. I can’t.”

It was very rare Dick had heard his father’s voice crack like that, especially when the man is
donning the Bat-suit as typically Batman remained stoic at all times showing little to no
emotion. Then again it isn’t Batman before him, without the cowl it’s just Bruce. Without the
cowl it is the terrified father begging his child to not lose an unwinnable battle.

“You won’t,” Dick reassured though he knew it was an unfair promise, but he couldn’t stand
hearing Bruce sound so heartbroken. “You won’t because you’re going to be there to prevent
it from coming to that, tonight you’ll be my safety net just like you’ve always been.”

“And I always will be even when you don’t want me to,” Bruce allowed a small smile to
creep into his expression as his worry eased though minutely. “Are you ready?”

“If I’m being honest, no but I don’t think I ever will be but at least after this we know he’ll
vanish again for a little while,” Dick answered honestly relishing in the grounding touch his
father offered him. “But I’m as ready as I’ll ever be so that has to be good enough.”
 Until Next Time Little Bird

Gotham City, June 17th, 10:46PM

The Bat-mobile had been parked for the past ten minutes but neither vigilante had made a
move to exit the vehicle. Nightwing’s gaze had been settled on the building where he will be
meeting the mercenary and Batman’s has settled onto his son waiting for the teen to signal,
he’s ready.

Being so close now, Dick’s heart was racing, and he was surprised he wasn’t trailing into
panic attack territory or maybe he was, but Bruce’s presence was acting as an anchor for him.
He’d been taking slow measured breaths the entire journey, staying silent aside from the deep
breaths. If he could have spoken the words would have been what Bruce didn’t want to hear
though now, he feels he needs to say them, but he can’t. He can’t even think straight so
speaking is out of the question. The only thought going through his mind is that he needs to
stop wasting time and get to the rooftop of the building before him.

“Breathe,” Bruce’s voice broke through, his father’s enveloping his squeezing gently. “It’ll be
okay.”

He wants to believe that he wants to trust his father, but he can’t help the doubt in his head
that always lingers when Slade is involved.

With words to difficult he just squeezes Bruce’s hand back taking another slow deep breath
only now realising he’d been holding his breath before hearing his dad’s voice.

“I’m here for you, remember that I’m here and I’m not going to let anything happen to you,”
Bruce assured and like every time he’s spoke tonight Batman is not in his voice at all.

Dick just nodded directing his gaze to the rooftop where he will be meeting with Slade in the
next few minutes. He doesn’t see the mercenary yet, but he knows that they’re being watched
by him, he can feel it and it sends a shiver down his spine.

Swallowing past the ever present and growing anxiety he pulls his hand back from Bruce’s
and prepares to exit the Bat-Mobile. He’s far from ready but he can’t hold out any longer. As
he opens the door Bruce halts him a final time with a comforting hand on his shoulder.

“You’re going to get through this son, I believe in you.”

Dick bit his lip at that sentiment to stop himself from collapsing into his father’s arms in a
flood of tears. He can’t do that yet, after Deathstroke he can be as vulnerable as he wants
until then he has to hold himself together. Still not trusting himself to speak without cracking
he offered Bruce a small smile though it did come across a little wobbly as he tried not to
break.

Batman stepped out the car at the same time as he did making sure to survey the area to see if
anyone specifically Slade was watching them. While Bruce couldn’t see anyone, he knew the
mercenary was in the area even without having eyes on him.

“You know where I’ll be, be careful,” Bruce instructed as he rounded the car giving his son a
final once over. “I’ve got your back on this one, don’t forget that don’t let him get in your
head to make you feel isolated.”

Nightwing nodded once more, allowing his father to softly caress his face to offer some
comfort before they have to separate.

“I-I love you dad,” Dick whispered his voice shaking but he needed to get those words out a
final time just in case.

Normally Bruce would lightly chastise displays of affection while in public and costume, but
he couldn’t this time because he was forgoing his own rule himself. Not only that it could be,
though he is praying to whatever being is out there that it’s not the last time he hears those
words from his son.

“I love you too son,” Bruce responded once again not caring about his usual rule as it could
be the last time, he’s able to tell Dick he loves him, and he refuses to send Dick to Slade
without his boy knowing he loves him.

With a final squeeze of the teen’s shoulder for further reassurance Batman pulled back
allowing Nightwing to make his descent of the rooftop where Deathstroke will likely be
waiting by now. He watches as his son takes another shaky breath as he ready’s his grapple
before the boy is vanishing from his side to up and over the edge of the building. He waits
until Dick is out of sight before readying his own grapple to ascend the building adjacent
which has a higher vantage point, so he’ll have full view of the confrontation between the
mercenary and his son.

Dick’s landing is sloppy compared to his usual grace, but he still managed to stick it well
enough despite how much it felt like his full body was trembling with anxiety. Taking a look
around Deathstroke was nowhere to be seen but that might be due to there still being a little
over a minute before 11PM. Not having eyes on the mercenary only worsens the racing of his
heart and he has to focus not to delve into panic now he is separated from Bruce’s grounding
presence.

Speaking of his father he just about able to make out the sound of his line retracting as
Batman made his way up to his rooftop perch. Though he should know better than to get
distracted Nightwing turned to watch as Batman ascended the other rooftop before vanishing
into the shadows where he’ll be watching the younger’s back.

“Really wish you were by my side B,” Dick whispered swallowing the lump in his throat
caused by the ever-present nerves.

“You’re lucky I haven’t killed him for being as close as he is,” Slade reprimanded stepping
out of the darkness revealing himself to the teen.

Nightwing was quick to turn so he was facing the mercenary balling his fists to hide the
shakiness of his hands.
“I thought you’d know better little bird, all this time I thought you would know the rules by
know for our little discussions,” Slade chided stepping closer towards the teen his smirk
hidden beneath the mask.

“He won’t fight you…”

“I know because if Wayne leaves his hiding spot, then he’ll be burying another child,” Slade
smirked as he drew his sword. “Though I would prefer to avoid that after all you’ve been a
lot work these past few years, it would be a shame if that went to waste.”

“Let’s just get this over with, you came here for a fight so…”

“Always so impatient little bird,” Slade scolded shaking his head in displeasure. “You forget
your place; it is I who makes the rules here Renegade not you.”

Dick bit his tongue at Deathstroke’s use of the name he had forced upon him during his time
as the mercenary’s apprentice. He knows Slade is trying to aggravate him, rile him up
because it makes him lose focus and gets him angry. He can’t show that it’s affecting him
because it’ll just allow Slade to play further games.

“While I enjoy testing your capabilities little bird, I am not so certain you will walk away
should I do so know, the added armour in the suit may hide it but you are in no shape for a
fair fight,” Slade continued stopping right in front of the teen staring down at the boy’s
masked eyes knowing that if he were able to see them they would reflect his fear.

“Then what do you want?” Dick asked surprised he was able to keep the unease out of his
voice as well as he did.

“Did you enjoy the gift your gift?” Slade ignored the teen pleased when he noticed how his
shoulder’s stiffened at the mention of the last delivery he sent. “It took time to acquire the
footage, but the clown was easily convinced when he discovered it was to be used against the
bats first bird. The boy reminds me off you he has the same defiance…”

“Don’t,” Dick choked his goal may have been not to react, but Jason hurts too much to keep
it inside.

“He had that same look as you, the one you wore before going over the edge of that rooftop,
like you he had accepted his fate the difference being his fate was sealed…”

“Please,” he hated resorting to pleading but he didn’t want to hear this, not to mention Bruce
would be able to hear every word as he left the comm line open.

“Then there was the other gift I left with you,” Slade kept going, he didn’t care if the boy
wasn’t reacting with anger and violence the way he expected, he knew he was still having an
effect as he could here the tears in the teen’s voice. “Were you tempted, after all you made a
promise to yourself you would if you ever came back willingly. Was I right in my
assumptions whenever I came out to you on that balcony?”
“No,” Dick ground out biting the inside of his cheek to distract him from the stinging of tears
in his eyes.

“Is that a no for you weren’t tempted to put that bullet in your head or a no that you weren’t
debating whether or not to jump?” Slade questioned knowing the bat would be listening in
and he wanted to hurt him as much as the bird.

“No on both accounts,” Dick muttered hoping Deathstroke wouldn’t sense the lie.

“Maybe for jumping, after all I know that you don’t want to go the same way they did,” Slade
started not missing how the boy’s fist tightened at the mention of his parents. “But you were
once again tempted to put a bullet in your head.”

“No…”

“Don’t lie to me little bird, you wanted to do it because you broke a promise to yourself the
question is why didn’t you?” Slade continued gripping the teen’s face when he tried to look
away from him. “What stopped you from picking it up and pulling the trigger? Was it
because once again you were too weak? Or perhaps…”

“I couldn’t,” Dick muttered trying to pull away from Deathstroke’s grip. “I couldn’t hurt
them like that.”

“I should have known,” Slade pushed the boy back acting disappointed with him. “You’re
predictable like that, I should have known you’d sacrifice your own freedom for them.”

“What do you want Slade?” Dick spat wanting this to be over so he can just go home and cry.

He’d come expecting a fight but instead he gets more mind games. If anything, Slade’s
constant attempts at verbally breaking him are worse than any physical pain the mercenary
would have inflicted on him during a duel. It’s even worse knowing Batman, his father, is
listening to it all, learning things that Dick had planned to keep hidden.

He wasn’t ever going to tell him about the video footage even though Bruce already has
suspicions he refuses to give him answers or details. He knows Bruce saw the message
Deathstroke had left him on his phone before Alfred disposed of the device, but he was going
to brush it off as Slade playing mind games. He was never going to tell his father that he had
been tempted a second time to pick up that gun and…

“What I want little bird is my apprentice to fall back in line. However, as I told you, you are
not in the condition I require, you are weak and useless in your current state. Your mind is
fragile, which is something I always enjoy seeing with you but physically you are of no use
to me. Our time together has been about pushing that mind of yours to it’s limits, to test your
resilience, to see if you would fall completely and as predicted you are still here. My little
parting gift for you was a final test to see if you would snap but if that didn’t make you
follow through then I know you never will and that when you do return, I will not have any
worry of you trying to end yourself. Anyone else would have followed through but I knew
you wouldn’t, you’re too stubborn to allow that to be the way your life ends,” Slade
explained as he circled the teen knowing how small it made the boy feel.
That’s what it was all about. All this time Deathstroke was just trying to push Dick to see if
he would kill himself. Everything was just to test to see if he would fall that final step, to see
if he’d cross that line. He almost had, he was tempted to cross it and the only thing that
stopped him was knowing the pain it would cause everyone he left behind.

“I’ve always known you wouldn’t, even if you rejoined my rankings completely and I gave
you the opportunity you wouldn’t pull the trigger. I can break you mind, push you over the
edge just like I have these past few weeks and you won’t do it. If you had done it then it
would be clear you were unworthy but instead you impressed me further by not allowing
yourself that freedom even though you must be craving it,” Slade continued stopping his
pacing directly in front of the hero once more. “Your mind and will is impressive little bird, I
look forward to shattering it once more when we next meet and I expect you to be in better
shape than you are now.”

Dick tried to avert his gaze from the cold expression of Deathstroke’s mask but once again
the mercenary would not allow that by gripping his face in the same bruising and controlling
grip he always used. His heart had been racing the entire time waiting for an attack despite
Slade’s earlier statement that there would not be one. His hands would be shaking if they
weren’t clenched into tight fists that would no doubt have had his nails drawing blood if he
wasn’t wearing the tact gloves.

“Until next time little bird.”

Nightwing hadn’t even registered Slade releasing him or the man disappearing until he felt
something heavy wrap around him. It was dark and had a familiar scent, a scent he associated
with safety. Bruce. The cape of the Bat-Suit.

As soon as that registered, he was crumbling into his father’s arms allowing all the pent-up
fear and anxiety to drain from him knowing that it was over for now. He was trembling and
tears were falling but rather than sobbing it was relief.

Deathstroke will be back, he knows this but for know he can forget. Forget about Slade and
just trust Bruce to hold him together for a moment. Trust that his dad will protect him from
the outside world as he releases everything he had been holding in during that entire
confrontation.

Batman kept a firm hold of his boy not wanting to ever let go. He had been so close to taking
the risk and attacking Deathstroke so many times after hearing the mercenary’s words. All he
wanted now was to hold his son, to keep him safe.

“It’s okay, it’s over he’s gone,” Bruce reassured keeping the cape wrapped around the two of
them and one hand carding through his son’s hair.

It was almost identical to how he had comforted the boy numerous times during Dick’s Robin
days they only difference being that the cape doesn’t completely swallow the boy in darkness
anymore as he’s grown. Everything else however is the same. The way Dick clings to him
and how Bruce shadows him from the world keeping a firm protective hold on him.
It was okay now. Well, it would be. Dick’s going to need a lot of help over the next few
weeks or more accurately months, but he’ll be okay. He’ll get through it; Bruce will make
sure of that. It’ll be another long road ahead of them and no doubt they’ll be arguments
involved but Bruce is determined to hold his promise that he will be there for his son and be
the father he needs.

“Let’s go home,” Bruce said keeping Dick held close as the began to make vacate only
separating to grapple down before rejoining in a half embrace once more until they reached
the Bat-Mobile.

Batman removed the cape before he entered the vehicle so his son would still have that
comfort until they got home. He tucked it around the teen once he was in the car and he
couldn’t help the smile that graced his face at how similar it looked to when he had done the
same thing for a much younger Robin. It warmed him to see that Dick still melted into the
feeling of his cape being draped over him as a blanket. He wasn’t surprised when he peeled
the domino off Dick’s face that his eyes were closed and for the first time since being back,
he looked peaceful.

That peacefulness wouldn’t last but for now his son was relaxed and Bruce allowed himself
to relieve himself of his own tension that he’d had pent up knowing his son was going to be
okay. He’d got through it despite the mercenary’s games and challenges, and he survived.
While the next few months were going to be hard, Bruce would be able to rest easy knowing
that eventually his boy will be alright.
 Make It Official
Chapter Notes

Finally finished with part 7 and huge thank you to everyone who has stuck around till
now and throughout the series so far, much love to you all. Honestly didn't expect this
part to go on so long but here we are and still one or two stories to go before this series
wraps up completely.

For now, I hope you all enjoy the final chapter of Trouble Is Friend

Blüdhaven, November 14th, 1:26PM

The past few months have been difficult to say the least, though Deathstroke left after
Gotham it still took time for Dick to recover from that ordeal. Even now with the months
between he still isn’t 100% but with therapy and his family he’s getting better.

It isn’t just him who is getting better, Bruce has so far stuck to his word to try and be better,
to be less Batman and more of a father. There have been some arguments, but they haven’t
gone to the extent as past fights and are usually easily resolved. Their arguments really
shouldn’t be called that, they’re more so mild disagreements at best and thankfully have yet
to result in the screaming matches that had occurred before. The relationship between father
and son still isn’t perfect nor is it as close as what it was when Dick was still wearing the ‘R’,
but it was so much better than it had been since the teen stopped wearing those colours.

Currently, Dick was waiting for his father as it was agreed he returned to ‘Haven that he’d
check in as a civilian once a week at a minimum. The agreed day was Friday as Bruce only
worked till lunch then and it allowed them to meet after Dick’s mandatory counselling with
Dinah. They still would see each other between these lunch meetings but most of the time it
was in costume, sure they could talk then if needed but it wouldn’t be the same.

When in costume both of them wore masks and weren’t exactly the same people they were
outside. Dick was more himself in either scenario but only those who knew who he was
behind the domino knew the pain the mask hid. Bruce however was a completely different
person when donning the cowl. It was only in the darkest moments where he’d allow that
mask to slip when in the suit and usually it was when his son was physically hurting. With
the cowl Bruce very rarely could be the father his son may need in moments where he needs
supporting and comfort, it was something he hated. He tried but the darkness that he spent so
long in before his light came along refuses to let his other side out when in cape and cowl
which is why these discussions need to be had as Bruce and Dick not Batman and Nightwing.

With his father having not arrived yet which was to be expected when the met in Blüdhaven
rather than Gotham Dick decided to catch up on some of his work for the police academy.
Technically he didn’t need to catch up as he was already ahead before he took the few months
off for the European mission and then the few extra while Slade was around, but he enjoyed
the work. He was surprised they were still allowing him on the programme as by the time he
returned he’d almost been away six months, but he’d been told it was because he’d been the
best student they had in months.

It’s a same not everything worked out during his need for time off his part time job at the
gym was still going but his job at the cop bar was bust. They called him a few days after the
final confrontation with Deathstroke and said that they couldn’t hold his place anymore, so
they had to let him go. It sucked but at least he had his job at the gym to fall back on and
soon enough he’ll be getting his badge to join the BPD so he’s okay with having lost out.
They only issue with losing the job was losing the extra funding I brought because even
though things were better with Bruce, he still refused to take the man’s money, then again,
he’s always been like that.

“I thought we agreed to leave all work at home,” Bruce teased as he sat across from the teen
startling him from the pages he’d been reading.

“Sorry, I didn’t know how long you were going to be so figured I’d catch up on academy
stuff while I waited,” Dick explained putting the work back in his bag.

“Don’t worry about it, how is it going there anyway?” Bruce asked he may have been
displeased when he first learnt of his son’s career choice but that was more fear than anything
so kept his reservations to himself.

“Good considering how long I was on break for and honestly I’m not behind even without the
extra reading,” Dick answered a small smile on his face at the hidden meaning in his words.

It’s true though even without the night work he’d still be ahead of the class because of how
easily he was learning the trade. Okay he might not be as far ahead as he is now but there’s
no doubt that he wouldn’t be further along than the others as when he found something that
sparked his interest or enjoyed, he became dedicated. He loved learning and developing his
skills in the trades he knew which is why he does actually do extra reading even though he
already knows half the things they teach at the academy. He doesn’t want to become
overconfident as that leads to failure which is why he’s always looking for ways to improve.

“You’ve always been ahead when it comes to academics so it doesn’t surprise me, to be fair
I’s surprised you haven’t grown bored yet or claimed its to easy like you did with school,”
Bruce smiled happy to see how much better his son was doing now compared to a few
months ago.

He grew worried two months ago as it almost seemed like Dick was relapsing back into his
depression. It happened after the unveiling of the memorial for Jason at Mount Justice that
had spurred it on. Dick faded for a short while, reverting back to unhealthy coping
mechanisms. Thankfully it hadn’t lasted more than a couple weeks, but it had set back his
return to the team until Canary was certain he was doing better again.

Before the conversation continued the waitress came over and took their orders appearing
slightly put off by the billionaire. It was a common occurrence whenever they were in public
for people to be intimidated by Bruce and it was always worse when its Dick’s turn to choose
where they met for lunch as he’d always pick a diner or something of the like while Bruce
stuck to the higher-class restaurants he’s expected to visit. They waited until the waitress
returned with their drinks before picking the conversation back up.

“Alfred was wondering if you’d be coming for thanksgiving,” Bruce questioned knowing that
any mention of therapy before they received their food would be a sure way to make sure
Dick wouldn’t eat. “He told me how last year went, that he waited until Jason, and I were out
before coming here.”

“I figured he’d mention it,” Dick said chewing at his bottom lip remembering the state Alfred
had found him in then.

He was honestly surprised the butler hadn’t forcibly dragged him back to the manor when
he’d found him last year. He’d let himself in the apartment as Dick made ensure Alfred had a
key and found him passed out on the kitchen floor. It wasn’t from any serious injuries but
from exhaustion and malnourishment which in Alfred’s eyes is even worse given they were
self-inflicted. Had Clark been off world at the time Dick definitely would have been forced
back to the manor but thankfully his alien uncle agreed to look after him for a few days for
Alfred. After that both Alfred and Clark made sure to routinely check in at his apartment to
make sure he was taking care of himself whilst keeping discreet to not draw the attention of
Bruce. With Dick wanting to avoid Bruce learning of his short comings Clark typically
stopped by more than the butler as it was more difficult for Alfred to slip away without Bruce
getting suspicious of something being wrong.

“I think he’d appreciate you coming home for the night, just so he knows you’ll be okay and
not on your own,” Bruce added sensing a slight discomfort in the teen.

“I didn’t have to be alone last year,” Dick sighed in admittance. “Wally offered to have me at
his folks’ place with him and Artemis, Clark said I’d be more than welcome to join him and
his folks along with Connor, even Babs asked me to join her and the Commissioner. I had
places to go but I… It wouldn’t have been the same. Don’t get me wrong they’re all family
too but… Before you and Alfred I’d never celebrated thanksgiving before not how it’s
supposed to be done anyway, so it felt wrong to celebrate without either of you. It’s why I
started taking on the extra work, I wanted a distraction I guess I distracted more than I
intended as I kept pushing myself and then forgot about basic needs.”

“I’d be thankful of you came this year Dick, it wasn’t the same without you there and I want
you there this year,” Bruce responded not knowing what else to say.

Dick nodded his agreement as he was interrupted before he could speak with their meals
being delivered to their booth.

Bruce hid his smile with a well-timed sip of coffee when he saw Dick ordered a proper meal
and not a small side or off the kids’ menu as he had done on most of their lunch visits. There
were instances where he’d order a proper meal like now and they had become more regular
as the months passed but it still made Bruce happy to see his boy eating something filling. It
honestly made him want to forgo any questions about therapy but without asking how things
are progressing he will never know fully as Dinah refuses to share anything with him. The
only time she had answered his questions were when he’d asked if Dick was a danger to
himself which she had answered ‘no, though it was still best to keep an eye on him as a
precaution’.

He waited to bring up any mentions of therapy until both of them were almost finished with
their meals instead keeping the conversation light.

“So, how did things go with Dinah this morning?” Bruce finally asked hoping Dick wouldn’t
close off.

“She suggested the melatonin again for the bad nights,” Dick answered having been prepared
for this conversation and was surprised it took so long for Bruce to ask.

“Maybe you should give it another go,” Bruce replied making sure to keep his voice from
coming across as commanding.

“I did at the start of all this, but I don’t like how it makes me feel the day after and I know
that’s probably better than the not sleeping but I can manage that better than the side effects
from the meds,” Dick explained knowing Bruce would understand his reason for not wanting
to go back on the medication. “I’ve been testing the tea Alfred recommended and its helps
sometimes just not for the really bad nights however those have been less frequent since…
since the memorial.”

“No unpleasant side effects with that then I take it?” Bruce questioned grateful to hear his son
has found an alternative even if it isn’t always effective.

“I’ve only been trailing it for the past two weeks but so far no maybe a little drowsier in the
mornings but its not as bad as the medication was and it doesn’t leave me feeling nauseous so
I can go for my morning run or to David’s before the academy,” Dick answered smiling when
Bruce shook his head at the mention of the early morning exercises something his father
doesn’t know why he bothers with given all the activities he does.

“As long as you’re at least getting some sleep that’s all that matters,” Bruce said stifling a
chuckle at his son’s need to complete some for of morning exercise even though he would
have been out during the night as Nightwing and the academy and his job at the gym both
allow him to get plenty of exercise in.

“Still not the recommended hours but it’s a lot better than it was,” Dick nodded leaving out
he hadn’t had the recommended eight hours a night since starting night work. “L-Leslie also
checked in today just before Dinah, s-still below what I was before Europe but higher than
last month.”

“You’ll get there,” Bruce assured reaching over to squeezes his son’s hand seeing he’d
become a little uneasy bringing up the weight he’d loss over all those months. “You know
Alfred will make certain of that. Did Leslie mention anything else?”

“She isn’t happy I started working again but you already knew that however she said she’s
happy for me to continue with how things are currently,” Dick explained cringing at the
thought of the look the doctor had given him when she’d found out he’d been patrolling since
a few days after her last check in with him. “She also did some final tests to ensure I still had
full function of my hands which she was already certain of anyway it was more of a
precaution, but she found nothing. We’re schedule again for December 28th.”

They continued talking for a while even long after their finished plates were taken away. It
was rare they spent so long together especially in public usually they’d meet for an hour, two
at most then go their separate ways. Today however was about more than just the lunch
meeting.

Bruce had something else planned but he wanted to do it just between them, out of the public
eye. It was something he been wanting to do since the moment his eyes first saw that eight-
year-old boy’s world ripped away. He’d come close to doing it on numerous occasions and
had the proof in his car for when he could finally branch this topic to his son. It’s something
he should have done a long time ago but whenever he tried something would prevent him
from following through.

“Bruce?” Dick repeated placing his hand on the elder’s drawing his attention back. “You,
okay?”

Bruce nodded once before speaking, “I’ll tell you just not here.”

Dick nodded though was confused, still he called the waitress over so they could get the bill
for their meal. He was quick to snatch the card Bruce offered before handing over his own
smirking at the irritated scowl from his father. He handed Bruce’s card back once everything
was paid for and they were leaving.

“Was that necessary?” Bruce shook his head at the teen’s actions.

“Yes,” Dick smirked in response heading for the fanciest car parked nearby knowing only his
father would be brave enough to leave something like that parked in this area of ‘Haven.
“Thought you would have figured it out by now that you’re not allowed to pay when I’ve
picked where we dine.”

“You did the same thing last week,” Bruce pointed out rolling his eyes at the teen as they got
into the car. “In fact, I think you’ve managed to do something similar and succeeded almost
every time.”

“So, I do have a job to pay for things like that it’s no big deal…”

“Dick, I appreciate it, but you don’t need to foot the bill every time…” Bruce tried cutting the
teen off only to be interrupted himself.

“I want to and if I can get it before you, I’m going to, calling my repayment for looking after
me for nearly a decade after all in a couple weeks legally you won’t have to gave anything to
do with me anymore if you didn’t want to,” Dick said not intending that last bit to come out
as hurtful but from how Bruce’s hands tightened on the steering wheel he’d failed. “Sorry, I
didn’t mean it like that.”

“I know,” Bruce sighed though it still hurt.

Neither spoke as the car continued its journey towards Dick’s apartment, new apartment
rented under a false name he’s never used before in hopes Slade won’t find him again. He’d
only been here a couple months but so far, no sign of the mercenary though that isn’t
promising given Slade’s ability to hide when he doesn’t want to be found.

It didn’t take them long to reach the new building, Dick didn’t even question how Bruce new
the address when the man had yet to come here and as far as Dick remembers he never told
him which building it was. It wasn’t as nice as the old place but that reflects on the price with
one less job he had to downgrade for now. And yes, he has a trust fund, but he refuses to
touch that and the savings he has are for emergencies. He could have found somewhere better
in his price range, but the location here was ideal as it in one of the busiest areas of the city
when it came to petty crimes, and it was still close to David’s gym where he worked.

Dick waited until they were inside the apartment before addressing Bruce again, “sorry again
for what I said in the car, I know the legalities don’t matter.”

“It’s okay,” Bruce assured keeping that saddened tone from his voice knowing that if Dick
agreed to this those legalities in a few weeks wouldn’t make a difference.

“So, what’s on your mind that you didn’t want to talk about in public?” Dick asked gesturing
to his well-worn couch as he took a seat himself. “Presuming mask stuff since we couldn’t
talk out there.”

Bruce stayed standing as he felt it was necessary for the moment before he began, “no, it is
however something I’ve been meaning to talk to you about for a while, I just never found the
right time to do so.”

“Okay,” Dick said drawing the word out as his anxiety flared slightly worried what his father
might be about to say. “Everything’s okay, right? You’re not like sick or anything? Or
Alfred?”

“No. No, nothing like that I promise, everything’s fine,” Bruce quickly reassured sensing the
boy’s panic.

“Then what’s going on?” Dick asked hating that his nerves were leaking into his voice.

“As I said this is something I’ve been meaning to talk to you about for a while and I had
intended to on many occasions but then something would come up or it wouldn’t seem like
the right moment or something would go wrong, even now I would have preferred something
more special, but… But you’re growing up so fast and I want to make this change before the
day comes where legally you’re not my responsibility anymore and as you pointed out in the
car that’s only a few short weeks away,” Bruce explained surprised he’d been able to keep his
voice steady so far especially seeing how Dick’s eyes were already filling with knowing tears
as he pulled the envelope from his pocket that he’d picked up int the car. “I have every single
form here from each time I planned to ask you and I also have the fresh copy for now if you
want to make it official.”

Bruce handed the envelope over to the teen and waited patiently as Dick’s nervously shaking
hands opened it and pulled out the contents.
Dick was thankful he was sat on the couch because if he was standing his knees likely would
have buckled with the shock at seeing the numerous forms that had been written. The first
one dated to exactly a year after he first moved into Wayne Manor and then the most recent
one before the one drafted this morning was March of this year a few days before he left for
the European mission. He flicked through each document his vision blurring with tears as he
examined each date. Those tears finally fell when he saw one date in particular, a date he will
forever regret, May 20th, 2011, the date he ran from the mountain, two days before he agreed
to Deathstroke. The date that followed allowed the first choked sob to escape, August 2nd,
2011, the first time he had ever called Bruce ‘dad’ to his face after being terrified he’d never
get the chance to do so.

“Richard John Grayson,” Bruce started waiting till his son’s sapphire eyes sparkling with
tears drifted back to him from the numerous papers in his hands before continuing. “I want
you to know that even if you say ‘no’ that doesn’t change anything even when you turn
eighteen, I will always see you as my son. If you do decline, I will fully understand, and it
will not affect how much I care about you. Richard John Grayson will you do me the honour
of allowing me to formally adopt you as my son.”

Bruce didn’t register Dick moving until he was wrapping his arms around him sobbing.
Those tears were not from sadness however they were tears of the utter most joy. Bruce
wrapped his arms just as tightly around the balling teen allowing his own tears of happiness
to fall even though you hadn’t received a verbal answer.

“I take it that’s your answer,” Bruce chuckled his voice wet from his own tears.

“Yes,” Dick choked looking up and smiling brightly at his dad, a smile Bruce hadn’t seen on
the boy in so long. “Yes, dad.”

“I love you so much son and I’m sorry I didn’t do this sooner,” Bruce embraced the boy
further returning the smile.

“I love you too dad.”

End Notes

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