Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Tim hunched over his desk, strands of loose hair falling into his eyes as he scanned the ledgers he’d taken from the financial department earlier this month. The numbers weren’t adding up. Just off enough in a few key expenses that made him suspicious. 

His parents would just turn a blind eye to keep the noble's support, Tim refused. He had no need for such things, he was going to replace all of them once he ascended to the throne as the 30th Shogun (The Offical Name of the Japanese Emperor during the Edo Era) anyways. Who cared if this painted a target on his back? This was his royal duty.

Tim shut his eyes, leaned back, and stretched his arms above his head. His shoulder cracked and popped. It was too late for this, but it was a necessary task. A necessary evil. 

Tim dropped his arms, letting out a deep sigh. It was time to get back to work. He couldn’t afford to waste any more time.

Right as he began diving back into his papers, he just barely managed to avoid the 

sword coming down towards his face. Tim rolled out of the chair and onto his side, standing in one motion. 

“Who are you?” He asked, scanning his attacker. Tall, about 6 feet, clearly an expert and professionally trained if he made it this far without being detected.

The man laughed, voice deep and bitter as Tim snatched his sword off of the table and unsheathed it.

“That would spoil the surprise, and defeat the purpose of the mask.” He said, falling into a brawler's stance. “I think it can go unsaid that I’m here for your head.”

Tim lashed out, bringing his sword up under the assassin “Who sent you?” He shouted over their clashing swords, the metal shrieking against each other.

The assassin shoved him back with a cackle, “You’ve made a lot of enemies Timothy Tatsu Drake , a friend from Nanda Parbat sent me.” He swept his sword in a wide arc causing Tim to jump back a bit.

“ Ra’s sent you?!” Tim stepped under the blade and jabbed his sword at the assassin. “Or was it Talia?” Of course it was the league. Now that Tim could see him better, the uniform was green and black with the golden insignia emblazoned on the bottom of his Pterugese (think Kida’s skirt thing from Atlantis.) which flared out with every movement. 

“Both- I’m on loan from the mistress to the head.” The assassin swept Tim’s feet out from under him, “He said something about wanting to test you, and I’m the best of the best.” The assassin stepped over to Tim and grabbed him by the front of his frilly shirt, opening his mouth to say something.

Then he froze. 

Tim seized the opportunity, he wrapped his legs around the assassin and flipped him over. The assassin tried to shove Tim back but failed, “ Guards! ” Tim screamed as he wrestled with the assassin.

The assassin swore as the room flooded with the royal guard. He sighed and let himself relax. “Well played Timothy.” He placed his hands behind his head, Tim stepped off of him. “It’s Chisai-Shogun (Edo Japan didn't have an equal to 'Prince', Chisai means little, little-shogun) Timothy to you.” 

Tim spun on his heel as the assassin was swarmed by the guards. “You’ve earned that much Chisai-Shogun (Edo Japan didn't have an equal to 'Prince', Chisai means little, little-shogun) Timothy-” he grunted as the guards hoisted him up and slowly began to drag him out of the room. His armored feet scraped against the stone floors. “-your talents and skills are wasted in your pretty tower .” He finished before finally being pulled out of the room. 

Tim collapsed onto the table with a sigh. The ledgers could wait. He needed to go to bed. 

_________________________________

The guards clearly didn’t like Jason. 

If the beating and cruel words were anything to judge by, they might actually hate him for trying to kill their pretty, perfect prince .

Jason grunted as he was thrown back into his blood smeared cell. He winced and licked the blood from his lips. The guards had a bit too much fun and Jason hadn’t been able to do anything about it.

His pride ached more than the bruises. 

One of the League's best assassins, nurtured by Talia herself , in a cell, letting petty prison guards beat him. Shameful. 

Jason sighed and let his head tip back against the cool stone. The broken nose wouldn’t matter tomorrow anyways. He’d be sentenced to death the next morning and killed the day after. 

It didn’t bother him too much. These were the risks of going after a Prince. 

Jason chuckled, causing his split lip to tear again. He ran his tongue over the reopened cut. Nothing to do now but wait. He might as well try and get some sleep.

__________________________

Jason woke to the sound of echoing footsteps. Each step pressing the thought of his sentence into his mind. 

The heavy metal door swung open to reveal the pretty Prince Timothy. The Chisai-Shogun (Edo Japan didn't have an equal to 'Prince', Chisai means little, little-shogun) stepped into his cell and scanned the blood smeared room, and finally landed on the rusted shackles. 

Jason looked up at the prince through his lashes. “If it isn’t my favorite prince, come to sentence me yourself?” He asked. “I’m flattered.”

The prince raised a brow, “I’d hardly trouble myself so.”

Jason huffed a laugh. “Then put in the good word for me and try to get me hung? It always sounded like a fun way to die, my lord .” He finished sarcastically.

"At least you're aware you're a dead man walking. If you stay here, you die. If we let you go, you die, killed for having failed your mission." The prince said coolly. 

“You’re intelligent, good. I’d be ashamed if I had failed to kill a fool,” Jason said, letting his eyes slip close. “And either way you’re correct.” 

He half opened his eyes to look at the prince. “...and yet I doubt the jury’s out on my attempt. So why are you here?”

"I'm here to offer you a way out," He said simply.

Jason snorted and shut his eyes again. “Death is my way out, what else is there?”

The prince bent at the waist, until he was level with Jason’s face. "Become my guard."

Jason's eyes shot open and he sat up straight, “ Excuse me?” They were so close their noses were practically touching. 

"You're hired muscle, this shouldn't be all that different. You're a dead man walking, and even if I released you, you've got nothing to gain from my death anymore," He said, stepping even closer to him, "So, become my guard."

The prince's icy blue eyes stared into Jason's green ones. They were cold and unrelenting and beautiful. “I- what's the catch?”

"Well, I suppose you'll have to go through knight training and be officially knighted, but other than that, not much."

Jason pursed his lips, “When would I get out of training?”

"Shouldn't take you long, with your skills," Timothy said, waving a dismissive hand. 

Jason blinked at the feeling of pride bubbling in his chest. “When does training start?”

"Immediately." The prince smirked. He turned around and barked out an order to the guards. "Unshackle him. Fetch him some food, water, and some clean clothes; then take him to the showers. Lead him to the training grounds once all that is done with and make sure he's registered as an official knight-in-training."

“Yes, your highness!” 

Jason tilted his head to one of the guards that punched him. “You heard the boss man, let me go,” he taunted, a shit-eating grin splitting across his face.

The guard's scowl was glorious .
__________________________________

Training was different here than in Nanda Parbat. He wasn’t supposed to seriously harm his opponents. 

Jason cackled as he jumped, spun, and knocked another knight flat on his ass. Sure, he couldn’t hurt them, but he could humiliate them. He hit the ground and swept another knight off their feet. Then he flipped and brought the hilt of his sword onto the knight's helmet. 

The prince- Timothy- watched, seeming proud as Jason worked his way through the other knights. “Seems like humility wasn’t something you were taught.” He called out. 

Jason ducked a well–aimed slash and rolled to the side, “I was taught not to be arrogant—” He swept the woman attacking him off her feet, nodding, clearly impressed,  when she twisted and got back up in one fluid motion. 

“I have full faith in my abilities. Plus there’s nothing better than a good fight,” he said before going back to engage with the woman again.

"Is that so?" Timothy raised an eyebrow.

“The moment you doubt your abilities is the moment you lose,” Jason said before rushing at the woman, he judo–flipped her and came back to a standing position.

 “And he sticks the landing,” He mumbled to himself before turning to face the prince. 

Timothy had his hand resting on his chin as he watched, "I don't know, you seemed to lose rather nicely in our last fight."

Jason snorted. “If we went again I doubt it’d have the same kind of ending. Besides, you only won because you had your guards bust in.”

"That's what you get for not having a plan. You attacked a Chisai-Shogun (Edo Japan didn't have an equal to 'Prince', Chisai means little, little-shogun) , did you really expect no one would interfere?"

“My plan was to fight you, I didn’t expect you to be good with a sword,” Jason shot back, as he dusted himself off. “Your guard isn’t half bad.” He commented, distracted, as he watched the other knights fighting.

"So you came here without conducting proper research?" Timothy teased, tone idle.

Jason laughed, “I would never , but it’s different from being told something and seeing it. Say it was a moment of awe ,” He said as he set his practice sword down by his flask of water.

He wiped his face with the bottom of his shirt and grabbed his flask “So, am I good enough for your guard?” he asked, gesturing to the people he had easily wiped out.

"You kept up with me in a fight," Timothy said flatly, "I would've thought that was obvious." 

Jason grinned “You’re the one putting me through training,” He said before taking a drink “Though I don’t mind much.”

Timothy huffed. "It's so you can get officially knighted, not to mention it isn't only fighting, you get taught standard codes of practice and ethics."

He sighed. “Then how about we skip to that part since I’ve got the whole ‘physical’ bit down? It doesn’t make sense when I can already hold my own.”

"I can't show favoritism," Timothy pointed out, "I'm afraid you'll have to endure."

Jason cackled, “Endure? You misunderstand, I’m having fun , I just figured it’d be faster that way.” 

The Prince –completely ignoring Jason– hummed and spoke. "We should spar sometime."

Jason grinned “I’d like that a lot, Prince Timothy.”

"Is your highness out of fashion?" He mused, tilting his head. 

“Yes! It went out of style a few days ago, shame you didn’t hear about it.”  Jason smiled and ran a hand through his hair, then sighed “Should I go back out there?” He gestured to the knights who were getting back up.

"Nah," Timothy said, taking off his heavy coat and unbuttoning his shirt to loosen it, "Let's give them a show."

A grin overtook his face and he subtly looked the prince over, “Oh? Sounds fun. Don’t hold back, that'd be a shame,” He said, peeling off his own shirt and tossing it to the side. 

Timothy raised an eyebrow, "You can fight with that shirt just fine," He commented dryly, picking up a sword.

“Not as much fun, besides, I don’t like the material,” Jason said, waving his hand dismissively before he reached for his own sword.

"I could cut you." Timothy sounded disapproving, his lips scrunching a bit. 

Jason snorted, “I’ve had worse,” He gestured to his scar-riddled torso “Can’t you tell?”

"I can. Still, I'd prefer my personal guard to be in peak condition," Timothy said with a firm look. 

Jason raised a brow. “I’ll keep my peak form unless you chop me to bits, don’t even worry about it.” He got into a ready stance. “Now will you fight? I’m bored of talking.”

Timothy clicked his tongue and lunged, "Don't blame me if you get cut up."

“I would never, besides that’s assuming you can hit me.” He parried and pushed down their swords, the ringing of metal against metal piercing the air. 

Timothy turned around and his sword sliced shallowly up Jason's torso.  "What were you saying?"

Jason grinned and swept Timothy's legs out from under him “Petty isn’t pretty on you, sir .” He said teasingly. 

"Sir? And the disrespect grows." Timothy sighed, flipping back up.

“You’re not actually mad if I had to take a guess,” Jason said with a playful grin. He ran forward and slashed out at Timothy once he had regained his balance. “Now don't hold back! I want a good fight!”

Timothy parried, mostly following a strike and retreat method. An irritating tactic that would cause most to make mistakes. But Jason pushed forward, every step back Timothy took Jason took one forward. “Aw come on now, we both know you’re better than this, sir. ” He emphasized. 

"You're right, you're right." Timothy lunged forward, pushing Jason back several steps. Quickly, Jason swung out and made another wide arc, hoping to throw Timothy off guard.

Instead, Timothy ducked — though the sword nicked him on the shoulder — he matched Jason's sword directly, catching it on the flat of his own blade. 

Jason whistled “Not fast enough? Shame.” He slid his sword down the length of Timothy’s, and pushed their swords up with a loud screech. 

_______________________________

Jason was laying on the ground next to Tim panting. “That….that was a damn good fight.” Jason said between ragged breaths. 

“Mhmm,” Tim hummed. Looking up at the sky, Tim knew it really was a good fight. He really had to give it his all to keep up. And Jason , Jason was magnificent. A powerhouse. Brute strength that had been smoothed into hypercompetence. 

“You over guard your left, it’s interesting, most over guard their right,” Jason said, his voice unsteady. 

Tim snorted, “That’s why I over guard my left, the more experienced fighters will try and target the left.”

“It’s smart .” Jason turned to look at Tim, “And….it’s exciting. Would it be out of line to ask that we spar more in the future?”

"You're already out of line, I don't know why you're worried about overstepping even more." Tim winced and let his arm shield his eyes from the sun, when the cloud that had been protecting him from its harsh light moved away from the front of it, "But no, it isn't. I'd like to spar with you more."

Jason laughed, “Just making sure I’m still on brand.” He sighed, “But color me flattered, Your Highness.” He closed his eyes, basking in the light. “What ‘etiquette’ do I need to learn?”

"All of it," Tim sighed, "You might get away with some things because you're strong and charming... but not all of it.”

“Aw, you think I’m strong and charming? I’m blushing.”  Jason sighed, “Sounds boring, but I think I can go through that pretty fast.” He sat up. “Ugh,  I need a shower — I don’t think I was shown where I should stay, do you know that or should I ask someone else?” 

Tim shook his head. "I'll show you, I wanted to speak with you anyways."

“Of course.” He blinked at him, clearly confused, but quickly stood and offered Tim a hand. 

He took it and let Jason help him up, "Let's go."

“Lead the way.” He mock-bowed with a grin on his face. Tim elected to ignore that and walked up front, leading Jason to the royal wing, to his room, which was connected to Tim's.

Jason whistled when he saw the room. “Damn, does everyone get this kind of room or am I just special?”

"You're special, I thought that’d be obvious" Tim said simply, going in. He opened another door inside, "Our rooms are adjoined."

Jason blinked. “Oh? and why do I get to be so close?” He studied the floor plan, memorizing every inch of it, dedicating it to his memory.

"I'd like for you to be my personal guard." Tim stated bluntly, "You're already heads over the rest in terms of power and skill, and you were right. I've made a lot of enemies, particularly amongst the nobility."

Jason looked at him, stunned. "Just like that?" He asked, surprise coloring his voice.

"Just like what?"

“Just like that you trust me? I could kill you in your sleep and be out before the guards know I’m here,” He pointed out. “Just like that, I’m allowed to be in the royal wing? I’m not even officially knighted!” 

"You've got nothing to gain from killing me." Tim said then paused, "Except maybe death. But I trust in your intellect and lack of suicidal tendencies."

He raised a brow. “Or I could bring your corpse to Ra’s and still be rewarded.” Jason waited a second — to let that sink in — then waved his hand, “But I have no loyalty to Ra’s, so sleep soundly. Still, don’t be so trusting.” He gave Tim a pointed look.

"You wouldn't be," Tim dismissed easily, as if Jason's words were nothing. "Rewarded, that is." Ra’s was too possessive for that. 

Jason hummed, conceding. "You might be right, but my job was to bring your corpse to him." Jason shrugged, "Whatever, where should I be showering?"

Tim pointed at another door, "There's your bathroom." Jason nodded, and walked toward it. He paused on his way and asked, “Are there changes of clothes anywhere?”

"Your closet is already packed." Tim said with a knowing smirk. 

Jason whistled. "Damn, you really think of everything don't you?"

Tim smirked, pleased. "Let's hope you never forget that." With that, he left the room. 

Once the door shut Tim flushed. Stars, this wasn’t going to be easy.

_______________________________

By the time Jason managed to get to the mess hall, Tim had already begun his rounds. Talking to the new knight’s and what not. 

When Jason stepped in, Tim knew something was wrong. For the last few weeks Jason and Tim went down together, but Jason hadn’t been outside their joined door like he normally was. That was strike one.

Strike two is now. Jason walked in and was….sluggish. Slow. Uncoordinated. 

Tim stepped away from the knights he was talking to and sat down with Jason. It took almost a full minute before Jason acknowledged him. Strike three. 

Jason blinked slowly. “Tim- Prince Timothy. G’morning.” His voice was airy, distant, floaty . Strike four. 

“No Your Highness this time either?” Tim joked, trying to get a reaction from Jason. Nothing. 

Tim waited, then tried again. “No Your Highness this time either?”

“Careful, ‘r I’ll go back to sir.” 

Tim huffed a quiet laugh.

“ ‘n I’m sure you wouldn’t like that,” he said, smiling playfully. The spark in his eyes came back. Tim let out a sigh of relief. Thank the stars.

"You know, I could hang you for treason for that," Tim said idly, letting his concern unspool. 

Jason caught on, raising a disbelieving brow. "You'd have to live without my good spars and my devilish good looks," He quipped back at him.

"Oh no , however shall I continue living?" Tim asked, swooning. 

Jason did not disappoint, dramatically putting a hand to his forehead. "You will perish alone and so disappointed, you poor thing."

He let the last of his worry fade. Jason had a rough morning, nothing more.

"Very disappointing, for wherever shall I find such a handsome face again?" He teased, resting chin on his hand.

A sigh. "You'll never find such beauty again, I guess you'll just have to keep me around."

The dramatics were good. Tim laughed, "It'd be such a shame to lose a pretty boy like you, hm?"

Jason laughed, though Tim caught his blush. "It would be such a shame, I'm just too pretty to be lost." He grinned slyly, "Although you shouldn't sell yourself short, I believe that you may be just a step above me in that sense."

"I'm quite aware I'm beautiful, yes." Tim said with a raised brow. Jason would have to do more than that to fluster him. At any rate, “You’re quite the charmer it seems.”

Jason snorted. “You did say I was strong and charming.” He took a few bites of his food before he spoke again, “So, are you watching today? Or should I get ready to spar with you again?”

"Watching," Tim waved a hand dismissively, "It boosts morale’."

Tim concealed a smile at Jason's disappointed sigh, "Shame, I'd rather have an actual challenge. Oh well." He finished his plate and stood. "Alright, I'm going to go warm up then, you should finish 'boosting morale," he said with a charming wink. 

Tim rolled his eyes. "When you say it like that, it's as though I'm whoring myself out." Even though the words were said casually, Tim's cheeks coloured at his choice of words.

Jason snorted. "You blush way too easily." He did not! Jason was the one to— Jason waved his hand. "Now go on, everyone is staring at us," He said, a wide grin on his face.

"That's your fault," Tim scoffed. He was still a little miffed…

"Or it's the fault of the Chisai-Shogun (Edo Japan didn't have an equal to 'Prince', Chisai means little, little-shogun) who sat down to have a conversation with a new knight recruit," Jaaon said while standing up. "Now pardon me, your highness, I'll see you later." He walked off to the field, which was well and good with Tim, because that meant he did not need to admit to the very valid point Jason had made.

He smiled to himself as he got up and went to make his rounds. He can't show favoritism after all, so he started talking to the other knights.

Or, well. He was trying . 

All he was getting from them was stuttered half–sentences. Then he saw Jason . Jason waved at him to get his attention, he stepped behind the recruits and mimed their stuttering movements and frantically waving hands. 

Tim held back laughter as he watched Jason act out the part of poor, hapless, stuttering knight–in–training. Finally, he looked away and bit at the inside of his cheek to keep from smiling.

Jason laughed and walked so he was back in Tim’s sight and — while clearly trying not to smile — he continued, making direct eye contact with Tim. He pursed his lips and scrunched his nose. Dammit Jason. This wasn’t proper !

Jason snorted at whatever face he was making and started quietly cackling, he — while cackling — half assedly mimed the knights, but he was laughing too much to do it ‘accurately’.

The volume of his laughter alerted the knights, who looked back at Jason and bristled in offense. Jason bent forward and braced his hands on his knees as he laughed loudly, “God— your faces! ” He wheezed.

"Imprudent little brat," One of them spat, scowling. Ice poured down Tim’s back.  Another knight nodded his agreement. "It's to be expected really, what else would come from such a graceless, uncouth rat?" 

Tim almost stood to interfere, the knights in training wouldn’t know better than playground insults— but a fully trained knight should know—

Jason raised a brow, “Little? I’m flattered.” He gestured to himself, “but you might need to get your eyes checked, I am far from little, and you haven’t seen me in action yet sir,” He said, rolling his shoulders back. 

A beat.

“Actually, I think I’m supposed to go up against your little friend here today, feel free to cheer him on.”

Jason could clearly hold his own, Tim had nothing to worry about.

"Hmph," the knight scoffed, "Someone of low birth such as yourself could never be a real knight, your crass fighting alone perverts the very essence of knighthood." 

Fury sparked in Tim’s chest.

"Watch it." Tim said, sharp. "You will hold that tongue of yours, Sir Devon, or I will cut it out of you." He regarded him coldly, "I will not have it said that my knights are uncouth , as you so kindly put it. Nor will I have you soil the ethics and prestige of knighthood with such backward thought."

It was said with a Chisai-Shogun (Edo Japan didn't have an equal to 'Prince', Chisai means little, little-shogun) 's full authority. The hall fell silent, for a moment. 

Jason gaped at him, then spoke, “Thank you, your highness,” he said with a quick bow before rushing off back to the field. Tim smiled.

Once Jason was gone, Tim said loudly, "That goes for all of you. Let this serve as your warning, if I ever hear such things uttered in my vicinity from any of you, you will be promptly stripped of your title. I'll cut out your tongue myself and pluck your teeth from your skull. Have I made myself clear?" 

"Yes, your highness!" Choursed the Knights and Knights-in-training.

"Good," he said, satisfied, as he made his way towards the door. 

Ah. Right. He stopped moments before exiting, "Oh, and do remember that. You will not be warned again." And with that, he left.

_______________________________

Jason damn near sprinted to the training ground, his face flushing with exertion….and embarrassment. Jason smiled stupidly, Timothy used such lovely words when he talked about and to Jason. 

Timothy, laughing, high and melodious. “It’d be such a shame to lose a pretty boy like you, huh?”

Jason swore and snatched up one of the wooden training swords. Running forms rhythmically. 

Jason, eyeing the fancy room, and the packed rooms. “Damn you really think of everything don’t you?”

Timothy smirking, it’s such an attractive look on him, sinister, sensual, prideful, perfect . “Let’s hope you never forget that.” Stepping away with a flourish. 

“Very disappointing, for wherever shall I find such a handsome face again?”

Jason swore again, stupid prince– with his stupid pretty eyes and his stupid pretty words–

“Jason.” He startled and turned. Timothy stepped onto the field, and crooked a finger towards him.

Jason fought down his blush as he walked toward the prince. Jason inclined his head and spoke, “I’m sorry that you went through the trouble of defending me, but my ego is not so easily bruised, I assure you.” Jason put on a charming smile. 

“Do not apologize.” Timothy paused, “Actually, I wanted to speak to you about that. Have any of them said similar things before?” Timothy took Jason’s hand. “No matter, I’m sure they won’t again. However, if anybody says something similar to you, you tell me . This behavior will not be tolerated .” Timothy said, stepping up to Jason, taking Jason’s face in his hands. “Am I clear?”

Jason’s eyes widened. He ducked his head, bashfully looking down at his feet, trying to block Timothy from seeing his burning face. “Of course Timothy, I’ll inform you right away, thank you.”

Timothy tugged Jason’s face up. “Stand tall, Jason. Chin up,” Timothy said– no– commanded . 

Jason bit the inside of his cheek so hard he tasted blood. He raised his head, his ears, cheeks, and neck stained a bright red. “Yes, sir.”

Timothy was smiling at him. Blue eyes shining bright and crystalline. “You’ve nothing to be ashamed of.”

Jason smiled. “I’ll do my best to keep that in mind, thank you.”

“Good. Now off you go.”

Jason went to leave, “Oh and Jason?” Timothy called.

Jason froze and looked back at the prince. “Yes, sir?”

“The others call me Timothy, you have no need to. Please call me Tim.”

Jason froze and flushed. “Of course, Chisai-Shogun (Edo Japan didn't have an equal to 'Prince', Chisai means little, little-shogun) -Tim. Thank you.”

Jason spun and made his way to the dummies, far enough away that he could simmer in his Prince induced panic, away from watchful eyes. 

_________________________________

Timothy- Tim was sitting on the bleachers, chin in his palm. His icy blue eyes cataloging every person stepping onto the field. 

Jason…might’ve been a bit more aggressive than he was yesterday, but at least he didn’t seriously injure anyone. A few cuts, bruises, maybe some cracked ribs. But nothing broken .  

Tim’s gaze on him made Jason want to do better. Go further. Be more extreme.

Jason out performed everyone else on the field. He knew it. Every molecule of his body screamed danger. Every parry, every inch of ground he overtook. Sharp edges of brute force that had been smoothed out and refined by technique. 

His hair stuck to his forehead, the familiar burn and stretch of his muscles with every strike.

Jason could feel Tim’s eyes on him the entire time. It was intoxicating. 

Jason pulled out his most showy moves. The maneuvers that showed his experience and his obscene level of control over every fiber of his being. 

Flips, jumps, complex footwork– and after he performed a complex set of moves, he’d look at Tim, and grin , all sharp teeth. 

Jason lived for combat, it made his blood sing and his heart race, getting him drunk off the endorphins that flooded his system.

And Jason wouldn’t change it for the world.

____________________________________

All Tim could think was Jason . Jason’s face, his muscles, his competency. Tim wanted to rush to him– Sokutai (The formal robes that the Japanese aristocracy and Emperor would wear) be damned- he wanted to rush to him and kiss his crazed grin. He wanted to feel it against his skin, to taste the sweat on Jason’s lips, to force all of Jason into his very skin . 

His blood boiled as he watched Jason. He wanted a sword in his hands so he could parry Jason, so they could fight like the equals they were. He wanted to see Jason’s beautiful footwork up close, appreciate the beauty and skills properly . He wanted to feel each year Jason spent refining his technique with every clash of their swords.

Tim wanted , and it burned .

Jason looked so alive and Tim ached for him. Heat crept up his neck and down to his wrists, every heartbeat fanning the flames further through his veins. 

_________________________________

Jason cackled as he knocked three people out with one hit. His blood singing to the steady beat of his opponents surrender. His eyes shining with excitement with each leap and twist, bringing his sword down on them from above like an angel of death.

He looked back at Tim-

He knew the look in Tim’s eyes. The need for a challenge, a fight . 

He couldn’t here- he needed to get away from the other knights, but once they were alone?

He could give Tim what he needed.

_________________________________

Tim wanted Jason. 

He wanted to exchange blows with Jason, to have their swords speak the words he couldn’t say. He wanted to see Jason’s light, he wanted to burn in Jason’s fire. He wanted to pin Jason to the wall when it was all over and press a bruising kiss to his lips. 

He wanted so many things. Tim bit his finger as he stared at Jason. 

All he really wanted was Jason .

__________________________________

Jason shivered and bit his lip, nodding to Tim before doing an extravagant move that said one thing loud and clear. 

This is what you’ll face.

With every motion he showed Tim who he was. What he’d go up against.

Tim’s eyes never left him.

Jason turned to face him. He raised his sword and bowed. Then he traded his sword out for two blunt daggers. And he gave Tim a show .

Jason grinned and flipped the two knives in the air. Catching them he sprinted through the field of other soldiers. Slipping behind opponents and ‘killing’ as he slipped through.

He grabbed a man with a similar build to Tim, dark hair and light eyes. He pulled the soldier's arms above his head and put the blunt blade to the man's throat.

Jason slashed his throat and dropped him to the ground. All the while staring directly at Tim .

Tim’s breath hitched. He stood, “Jason!” he barked out. “Follow me. Now .”  He spun sharply on his heel, his Sokutai (The formal robes that the Japanese aristocracy and Emperor would wear) flaring behind him. 

Jason smirked, ignoring the sadistic chuckles of the other knights. They all assumed he was in trouble. Jason knew he wasn’t, Tim wanted a fight .

Jason tucked the knives into his belt, and chased after Tim.

________________________________

The moment they were in a secluded area Tim took Jason’s wrists and pinned them above Jason’s head against the palace wall. “Are you trying to drive me insane?!” He hissed into Jason’s ear.

Jason inhaled sharply, his ears turned pink. “I don’t know whatever you mean sir , I was just fighting.” He said with an airy smile. 

Tim took a deep breath and slowly looked up at Jason. He wouldn’t dignify that with an answer. Tim presses their chests together and slips a leg between Jason’s legs, pressing up . 

Jason bit his lip as he smiled. He used his weight and strength to force Tim back a few steps, “Something wrong sir?” Jason asked as he shoved Tim against the stone, pressing Tim into it.

“I will eat you alive ” Tim hissed, Jason chuckled and pushed Tim’s hands up higher above his head. “ Could you? Or are you all talk ?” Jason murmured into the skin of Tim’s neck, edging away the collar of his purple Sokutai (The formal robes that the Japanese aristocracy and Emperor would wear) . 

Tim bit his bottom lip and smiled, tipping his head, “I’d gladly be devoured by you.”

Jason nipped at his neck, “I asked you a question, your higness . ” 

He wasn’t desperate- he wasn’t - “Kiss me?” he begged breathlessly. 

Jason pulled away for a moment, staring into Tim’s eyes. Jason’s were beautiful. Deep green swirling and shimmering as he stared at Tim like he couldn’t believe what he was seeing. Like he wanted Tim.

Tim’s thoughts were cut off by Jason smiling and leaning down to press their lips together. “As you wish, your Highness.”

Tim shut his eyes as his stomach fluttered. He pressed forward, kissing Jason hard. Tasting the sweat on his lips and the desperation on Jason’s tongue. Jason groaned, and one of his hands fell to Tim’s waist, pulling Tim closer than he thought possible.

Tim bit Jason’s lip and relished in the moan. Jason’s other hand cupped the nape of Tims neck to tip his head back so he could kiss Tim better. “See?” Tim breathed out, “I’ll eat you alive .” 

Jason chuckled, his pupils blown wide. “You can try, but who’s saying I won’t get to you first?” 

Tim raised a brow, “I’ll serve you on a silver platter, just for me to taste- nngh - but your option sounds pleasant-”

Jason flushed and mouthed down the side of Tims neck, “Don’t make promises you can’t keep your Highness”

“I’d gladly be eaten by you ,” Tim groaned. Jason inhaled sharply, “ Prove it .” He hissed, kissing Tim hard and fast. 

Jason pressed his lips to Tim’s throat, almost lovingly, and kissed down to the edge of Tim’s Sokutai (The formal robes that the Japanese aristocracy and Emperor would wear) . He pushed the neckline aside and sank his teeth into the muscle and soft skin. Tim gasped and tensed. Jason chuckled, “Pretty face and a pretty voice,” he murmured. “Aren’t I lucky?”

“Less talking , more biting .” Tim damn near whined .

Jason bit down hard on the skin of Tim’s shoulder, just below the neckline of Tim’s Sokutai (The formal robes that the Japanese aristocracy and Emperor would wear) . Tim tipped his head back and sighed softly, letting himself relax into Jason. Jason softly- loving- pressed kisses into the bruises forming on Tim’s skin. 

“Y’know, I thought you were dragging me away so we could fight.” Jason murmured, pulling back and tracing the marks, “I like this more.” He said, squeezing Tim’s throat playfully.

Tim’s eyes fluttered open- when did he close them? “ Nngh- we can fight later , right now…” Tim slid a hand up Jason’s thigh and under his tunic. “I want to get my hands on you.” 

Jason’s breath hitched, “Here? You’re so forward,” he teased, mouthing at Tim’s neck again. Tim moaned quietly, “ ‘m a Chisai-Shogun (Edo Japan didn't have an equal to 'Prince', Chisai means little, little-shogun) ,” His eyes fluttered shut again, “and you’re a wet dream- of course I’m forward.”

Jason fiddled with the edge of Tim’s Sokutai (The formal robes that the Japanese aristocracy and Emperor would wear) and slid his hand up the inside of Tim’s thigh, pressing into the fat. “You know how you plan for everything?” Gently ghosting his hand over Tim’s pelvis, and pressing against Tim’s stomach. 

Tim hummed distractedly, "Yes?" Why was Jason bringing up his planning skills while touching him?

“I seem to recall that I have a room that might just be connected to yours,” He smirked, lips curling against Tim’s throat. “I think that might just solve our little problem. ”

Tim blinked, "I can't have sex now , I have a meeting in minutes," he murmured almost offended. “Who and what do you take me for?”

Jason chuckled, “I didn’t mean now your highness.” He kissed Tims pulse point, “I mean later, after your meetings leave you…. stressed .”

“Oh? You’ll be my personal stress ball then?” Tim asked, bringing his hand up Jason’s chest and squeezing at his pecs and biceps. 

Jason blushed high on his cheekbones, “That and so much more.” He promised, rolling his shoulders out and flexing.

“Hmm, I think I prefer your thighs,” Tim brought his hand down to wrap around Jason’s thigh, squeezing, then moving out his ass to repeat the motion. God he could fuck those thighs, honestly Jason could crush Tims head and it was the most attractive thing Tim had ever thought. 

“You– what– ”

“You’ve nice thighs, and a nice ass,” Tim said, entirely unashamed.

Jason grumbled something unintelligible, but finally said  “You’re so- so weird ,” he brought a hand to cover his face to attempt to hide his face. 

“Too bad you’re into it then.”

“Unfortunately,” Jason sighed, “Yes I am you little freak.”

Tim squeezed the back of Jason’s thighs. “I should mark them up, how’d you like that hm? Laid out on my bed while I mark up your pretty skin?”

Jason’s eyes dilated as he flushed, “ Fuck , you know exactly what you do to me don’t you?” 

“Maybe,” Tim said idly, “You’re the one who said I plan for everything.”

“Yeah but I never expected this –”

“Jason you’re hot , I’d have to be blind not to recognize that!”

“Well I know that ,” Jason pressed up against Tim and kissed his throat, “You’re not bad yourself angel.”

“Oh I know,” Tim smirked and flipped their positions again, pressing Jason against the wall. Jason flushed cherry red and let out a moan. “Pretty face and a pretty voice, aren’t I lucky?”

Jason made an adorably pathetic sound, and Tim stepped back, “Well, I do believe You have training to get to, and my meeting starts soon.” He smirked, “I’ll see you later?”

Tim spun oh his heel and left without waiting for a reply. Though he did hear a faint, “of course.” as he left.

_____________________________

Jason made it back to the room long before Tim, apparently he’d been caught in some dumb meeting. Leaving Jason unattended.

So Jason baked shepherd's pie. And maybe he brought some fruit up to the room.

And maybe he brought some wine.

Then he was in the room again. Waiting. Unattended. 

_____________________________

“What are you doing? ” A voice behind Jason asked.

Jason startled and dropped the socks he was folding. “Oh! Uhm. Tim. Hi. Nothing.”

Tim looked around the sparkling room, “Did you….did you clean my room ?” he asked, baffled. 

“No?” Tim just raised a brow. “Here, take this. Eat.” He shoved a bowl with some of the shepherd's pie into Tim’s hands. “I’ll be done soon.”

Tim inhaled his food as Jason managed to finish folding all the clothes, finally he sat down next to Tim, “I’m glad you like it.”

“You’re a blessing -” 

“Thank you?”

“But why did you go all housewife on me?” Tim shrugged, “Not that I don't appreciate it-”

“I’m not a housewife! Your room was a mess and I knew you hadn’t eaten-” Tim raised a brow. “-I just wanted to be helpful.”

“You cleaned my room, folded my socks, and cooked me dinner…” Tim moved the dishware to the bedside. “Just admit you’re a housewife.”

“Oh shut up!” Jason stood and went to walk away, “You do one nice thing–” Tim caught Jason’s hand, “You did all this for me, at least eat with me. Please.”

Jason rolled his eyes and took a slice of fruit, “Whatever, just finish your damn food.’

“Well if you insist,” Tim leaned forward and ate the fruit right from Jason's hand. 

Jason flushed "You- you-" he flustered.

"Me?"

Jason threw his hands up, "You are just– so much!"

Tim pressed their chests together, "Are you opposed to that?" He asked, looking up at him coyly.

Jason blushed and looked away "Not– no I'm not." he muttered reluctantly.

"Yeah? Because I remember a promise you made me earlier today," he said, "and suddenly I'm in the mood for dessert." Tim let his body weight push Jason back on the bed, until he was laying on top of him, Sokutai (The formal robes that the Japanese aristocracy and Emperor would wear) fanning out around Jason.

Jason looked at Tim with those beautiful viridian seafoam eyes. Tim swore that everytime he saw Jason his eyes changed a bit darker, or a bit more saturated, Tim almost felt like he was drowning when Jason looked at him, and what a lovely way to go. 

“Are you sure your highness?” Jason asks softly. As if he was awaiting a repercussion. “Of course I am.”

Jason smiles, bright and delighted, he reaches up to cup Tims jaw and pulls Tim down to kiss him. And Tim goes along easily. Because how could he not?

______________________________________

Tim was kissing Jason, Jason almost couldn’t believe it. He pushed at Tim’s Sokutai (The formal robes that the Japanese aristocracy and Emperor would wear) , “How do I take this off of you?”

Tim smiled and straddled Jason. He smiled and began to peel layers off, “Oh don’t worry about that part,” he slowly unwrapped himself, Jason's eyes raked over every inch of newly revealed skin.

“You’re so hot,” Jason said breathlessly, as he reached out to touch Tim’s chest. Tim caught Jason’s hands and smiled playfully. “Am I?”

“You’re so hot it’s not even fair ,” Jason murmured. Tim smiled, he grabbed the front of Jason’s shirt and pulled Jason up as he laid back against the bed, causing Jason to brackett Tim’s body. 

“Why don’t you show me?”

Jason didn’t hesitate, “As you wish.” He kissed at Tim’s neck and nipped it, testing for a reaction, Tims groan was encouragement enough, Jason bit down harder before continuing down to Tim’s collarbone. "I am so glad you didn't just kill me," he said with a chuckle.

"What can I say, I have a good head on my shoulders," Tim teased breathily. "It'd be such a waste– nngh – to have you die."

Jason smiled and sucked a hickey onto the skin on Tim’s collarbone, "such a waste indeed ."

" Mmm , a real shame."

Jason pulled back and smirked "Glad I get priority" he kissed Tim softly, "For the record I'm glad I didn't succeed." 

Tim blinked, a bit startled, then broke out into a wide smile, "Yeah?"

Jason smiled "I don't know what I would do, if I had succeeded. Nothing as fun or lovely as this– and most certainly not as nice as it would be with you."

"You'd go back to Nanda Parbat," he scrunched up his nose.

"And what an awful place to go back to," 

Tim placed a tender kiss on his nose, "For what it's worth, I'm glad that you're here." He paused. "With me," Tim clarified

Jason smiled softly "No better place to be" he paused, then grinned sharply, he pressed his thigh into Tim’s growing erection, straining under his Kosode ( the innermost layer of a Sokutai, a loose white short sleeve/tank top robe the covers to the knee) . 

The pathetic whine Tim made made Jason so hard he felt dizzy. “I feel like you’re wearing a bit too much-”

“Take it off me then,” Tim rushed, grinding up against Jason’s thigh. Jason grinned, untied Tim’s Kosode ( the innermost layer of a Sokutai, a loose white short sleeve/tank top robe the covers to the knee) and bit his lip. Tim was flushed, and smiling on the bed. Under Jason. Soft and pliant, just watching Jason with his icy blue eyes half closed. 

Once Jason finished untying the Kosode ( the innermost layer of a Sokutai, a loose white short sleeve/tank top robe the covers to the knee) , Tim slowly writhed under Jason, showing himself off, arching his back gracefully. “Why do you hesitate?” He murmured. 

“What do we say?” Jason asked idly, tracing shapes into Tim’s thigh idly. 

Tim scoffed, “ please .” He said dramatically. 

Good enough. Jason grinned and shifted, licking a stripe up Tim’s shaft before swallowing Tim down inch by inch.

Tim arched back and moaned, low and long, and Jason didn’t think he’d ever been so beautiful. 

Jason took Tim fully into his mouth. He couldn't grin, but he figured that Tim got the idea. He started to slowly bob his head, trying to get Tim to really break.

Jason damn near choked when Tim bucked his hips, “ Jason ,” he whined. Jason began to move faster, but froze as Tim brought a hand to his face to cover his mouth. Jason made a disapproving sound and narrowed his eyes at Tim.

“Jace?” Tim asked hoarsely, he tried to move his hips up, but Jason pressed his hips down into the mattress. “Jace- I don’t-” Tim pleaded desperately.

Jason brought a hand to Tim’s throat and tapped it, then took Tim all the way down his throat. 

Tim moaned high and desperate, “ Fuck ,” he brought a hand to Jason’s hair and grabbed his hair like it was a life line, “Jace- Jason please- fuck -”

Jason moved faster and brought a hand to press against Tim’s balls, Tim tried to pull Jason’s head away, “Jason- I’m gonna- fuck,  fuck! ”

Tim came down Jason's throat, back arched and mouth open around a silent cry

Jason watched as Tim unraveled, and slowly pulled off. He wiped his mouth with the back of his hand and then cleaned his hand. “ Damn sweetheart, you last longer than I expected” he said hoarsely.

Tim dropped back down, chest heavening, "I'm hardly a virgin maiden," he dismissed, breathless.

Jason chuckled “Good thing too, it’s more fun when you know what you’re doing”

Tim agreed easily. He paused, eyes trailing down to the tent in Jason's pants. "Wanna fuck my thighs?"

Jason’s eyes lit up “Fuck yes .” He shuffled out of his trousers and tossed them off to the side.

Tim rolled onto his stomach and pressed his knees together, Jason shifted behind him, and put his hands on his waist. He took a moment to admire the graceful arc of Tim’s back. “You’re beautiful.” 

Tim hummed and pressed his ass against Jason’s cock. “Am I?” He teased.

Jason smeared his precum up and down his cock, groaning softly. He pushed his cock between the soft fat of Tim’s thighs, Tim squeezed his thighs together giving Jason the friction he needed, and Jason saw stars. He hunched over Tim, “ Fuck - god Tim-” he groaned, “ ‘m not gonna last-”

Tim started shifting his thighs, rubbing against Jason’s cock-, " Come on, then. I've got you."

Jason moaned and in seconds he was cumming. “ Fuck –” he gasped.

Tim blushed as Jason's cum painted his thighs. He trailed his hand down, til it was over the one Jason had around his waist. "Good?" He asked breathlessly. 

Jason panted, “ So good sweetheart” he said, shifting his hand so he could hold Tim's. “You want to sleep in my bed? Seeing we’ve made a mess of yours?” he asked, pressing a kiss to the nape of Tim’s neck

Tim hummed, "Can I?"

“I wouldn’t offer if you couldn't,” Jason said. He sat up. “Want me to carry you?”

"I'm fine I can walk," Tim rolled onto his back and began to sit up before freezing as he looked down at his legs, "Just let me clean up..." his cheeks coloured a beautiful red. 

Jason smirked, “no need.”

“What do you mean- oh fuck .”

Jason pushed Tim onto his back and once again settled between his thighs. He smirked and licked a stripe through the white stain on Tim’s right thigh.

Tim blushed bright red, "You're– you're gonna lick it all off?" He squeaked, his voice rising an octave.

“Well would you rather I leave it here? You do seem to like how it looks” he said before licking another slow stripe “Besides, you’re cute when you’re flustered.”

Tim covered his face with his hands, "I just- You are-” he whined.

“Use your words, Tim.” Jason teased before licking the last of the cum off Tim’s right thigh.

"It's intimate , is all," Tim muttered.

Jason raised a brow, “And you having your cock down my throat was what? Casual?”

Tim blushed harder, "It's different!" He insisted. As if having Jason's cum on the inside of his thighs, and Jason licking it up even after they had sex, was so different .

Jason slowly licked a stripe off of Tim's left thigh “Oh? How so?” 

"It just is ," he muttered, embarrassed, resisting the urge to squeeze his thighs together.

Jason hummed and rested his cheek against Tim's clean thigh. He looked at Tim through his lashes “It just is? What's that supposed to mean angel?”

"We're not having sex right now, are we?" Tim said, "and you're just... you're down there, between my legs, cleaning up.." Tim flushed and shut up.

Jason smiled coyly. “Yeah, I am.” He said before licking another slow stripe.

Tim squeezed his thighs together and made an embarrassed noise

Jason laughed and nipped at Tim’s inner thigh “If you wanted to fuck my face all you had to do was ask.” Jason said, muffled.

"I already fucked your face," Tim exclaimed, flustered. 

“No, I sucked your dick, that’s different.” Jason said before biting Tim’s inner thigh.

Tim let out a little whine, " Jason ." 

“Use your words sweetheart” Jason said before cleaning off the last of the cum on Tim’s thighs.

"You're a tease," he grumbled.

Jason hummed and pressed soft kisses to the inside of Tim's thighs. “And? What are you gonna do about it?”

Tim sighed, resigned, "Nothing."

Jason chuckled and pressed kisses up Tim's body. Then he just. Laid on top of Tim. Like a cat.

Tim 'oof'ed, "I thought we were going to your bed?"

Jason sighed “ Fine ” he grumbled. He rolled off and stood up. Then he picked Tim up and threw him over his shoulder “Just know you did this to yourself Tim!”

"I can walk!" He squeaked out, "and did what?!"

Jason snorted and hurled Tim onto the bed “That!”

Tim giggled, "That's not so bad," he grinned.

Jason smiled and flopped down next to Tim. “Alright lover boy, c’mere”

Tim shuffled over obediently. Jason wrapped Tim up in his arms and hummed “Perfect.”

Tim smiled and playfully bit at Jason’s chest, "You're very cuddly, hm?"

Jason huffed, “so what, it’s nice” he paused. “Hey do you…do you have a smithy in the palace?” 

Tim made a questioning noise, "Yeah, why?"

Jason hummed, "I used to do a lot of smithing, I miss it. I want to go back to it, I'm wondering if that’s something I can do again."

Tim pressed a kiss to his jaw, "You can do anything you want."

Jason blushed faintly, "Yeah? Anything at all? Would the Crown Prince come and back me up?" he teased.

"Obviously."

Jason blushed, "I didn't think you were gonna actually say yes." he sighed, "well as long as I can work at the smithy– now shut up and sleep. " Tim hummed and snuggled into Jason's chest. And Jason couldn’t remember a time he’d felt this happy. 

Chapter Text

The bruises on Jason’s knuckles ached with a faint thrumming pain. Some of the other trainees decided to jump him after practice. He had managed to land enough good hits that they backed off, but one of them hit him good right at the start- right to the nose.

Gods he hated bloody noses. He walked back to his room while trying to wipe the blood spilling down his front. He shut the door behind him with a bang.

He wiped at his nose, staining his hands red, it’s almost like he was back home, on Nanda Parbat. Being attacked by the lower ranks so they could get a leg up in the hierarchy, how many did he kill for his dumb fucking rank-

Jason opened his door and slammed it shut with a satisfying bang. His hands. His hands are red, and their eyes are green, always green. Anytime Jason’s involved it’s red and green and nothing else but the flash of his gold swords-

Jason shouted, turned, and punched the wall hard enough that he heard the stones crack. What the fuck is wrong with him?

Jason slumped and knocked his head against the wall. His eyes burned, with a shaky breath he let out a silent sob. Great. Now he’s crying. Tears and blood pouring downhis fucking face now. Jason raised his hands and hit the side of his head. Stop it. Focus on something else-

A quiet knock at his door. 

Jason froze. He gently wiped his eyes and ran a hand through his hair. “It’s open.” He called looking down at his fuckingblood stained shirt. He swore and smeared the blood across his face. 

"It was a petty fist fight after training , don’t sweat it- I'm just pissed that my nose is bleeding '' Jason deflected. There wouldn’t be a point to dismissing them- and it would look bad for Tim.

"They aren't supposed to antagonize other people like that, I cannot have bullies graduate into knighthood, Jason. Yes, you can handle yourself, my arguments to the fact that you shouldn't aside, what about their next target? What if the next person they pick on cannot handle themselves like you?” Tim pressed.

 “And what if they do so with the power and authority of a knight backing them? There's a reason knight training includes ethics and that the code of conduct is so strictly enforced."  Tim said sternly, “I refuse to have corruption in my forces. Is there anything else I should be aware of?”

“Oh, that makes sense.” Jason said faintly. “There’s nothing else.” But the murmurs. The whispers and the fucking isolation eats at him but it’s fine he has Tim-

“Murmurs?” 

“I- what?”

Tim frowned, “You were mumbling.”

"People… talk – not to me– to each other. Nothing awful. Mostly them speculating about my past," he said stiffly.

Tim sighed and slumped against Jason, “What do they say?”

“Woah- Tim mind the blood-”

 “What do they say?!”

 "They wonder if I’m like– an illegitimate child of the King- hence why I get special stuff, but most of it is wondering if I was like- an illegal brawler- or if I’m blackmailing the royal family. There's a bunch of stuff but those are some of the most common. There’s a little bit of everything."

Tim ground his teeth, "They shouldn't be saying that stuff about you," he whispered.

"I mean, sure. But it's not a big deal, they're not doing anything" Jason said dismissively. "Besides, it's all mindless chatter."

Tim went quiet for a while, only clutching onto Jason’s bloody shirt tighter. 

"Tim? Angel, it's okay, no one pays mind to it," he said softly. "It's okay- I don't care."

"It's not okay."

 
"Okay," Jason agreed easily, he didn't really believe it- but if it made Tim feel better “Okay- it's not okay. But you just have to leave it."

 
Tim huffed, "I know . I just don't want to."

"Well, what could help you not think about it?"

  
"Let me take care of you?"

Jason’s brow furrowed, “What do you mean?”

"Bandage you up and fuss over you, for now."

Jason nodded, "Okay, okay do what you'd like Ti- sir," he said, switching quickly. 

 
"Sir?" He murmured. He led Jason to the bed, sitting him down, before rummaging around to come back with towels, a bowl of water, ointment and bandages. He started gently tending to him,

Jason smiled and tossed his bloody shirt to the side. Really he was fine, his knuckles may be a bit scuffed but he’s fine overall. But if it helped Tim then who was he to stop Tim? "You're good at this"

Tim hummed and mentioned something about patching himself up too many times offhandedly as he cleaned the blood off Jason's chest.

Jason hummed and gently tucked a strand of hair from Tim’s face "You’re really pretty, you know that sir?"

 
Tim startled, "Huh?" He blinked, "Yeah I do….thank you."

Jason smiled. "Good because it’s true.”

Tim smiled slightly, and moved down to Jason’s knuckles. He gingerly cleaned any blood off and then tenderly applied ointment and bandaged them. Once he was done, he placed a kiss on top.

Jason flushed lightly and smiled, “better sir?”

"Yes, better." He agreed, then finally asked, "why are you calling me sir?"

Jason shrugged. “Power dynamics, figured you would like knowing you had control. A whole mental thing.”

Tim shook his head, "I often feel helpless," he confessed, "There are a lot of things I want to do and can't, because of my status. There are also a lot of things I should theoretically be able to do but am unable due to the authority of my parents."

Jason sat up and cupped Tim’s cheek. “That won’t last forever, and until then- when you feel helpless or powerless, tell me. and I'll do what I can to help, you can always have authority with me.”

Tim smiled up at him brilliantly, "You're already helping."

Jason wanted to burn that smile into his memory. He kissed Tim's forehead and then sat up. “Always glad to be of service” he said softly.

Tim went quiet again, this time he smiled softly at Jason, and he couldn’t help but match his expression. “Come on, lay down. You’ve done so much for me already.”

"Can I hold you?" Tim asked, uncharacteristically shy.

Jason blinked, “Of course sir, you don’t even have to ask,” he said gently.

Tim smiled brightly as Jason moved him so they were both laying down. “Where d’you want me?”

Tim made grabby hands, "in my arms."

Jason smiled and shifted so he could lay his head on Tim’s chest. “Better?”

"Yes, very," Tim said, running his fingers through Jason’s hair.

Jason hummed, “that’s nice,” he said quietly.

"Yeah?"

“Hmm yeah, feels good” he murmured.

"Sleep? I'll keep watch."

Jason hummed, “keep watch? These are your private quarters.”

"It's your private quarters and I don't trust these bastards," he glowered.

Jason hummed “oh…makes sense…” he said tiredly, Tim’s nails gently massaging his scalp, fiddling with the knots in his hair slowly relaxed Jason. 

"Sleep love."

And Jason was out.

_______________________________

As Tim walked out of a meeting Jason was close behind. Tim’s face was cold and shut off as he passed by the whispering nobles.

"Look at him, such a stupid prince, playing games..."

“He doesn’t realize the gravity of the situation, it’s all entertainment to him…”

Jason bristled, “Sir they’re-” he knew that look. It's the same look he puts on every time the others whisper about him. Ignore it, it’s fine.

Bull shit .

Jason set his shoulders, “ Chisai-Shogun (I made up a term for “prince’, Chisai means little:little shogun) , I must say, your strategy to reveal the cowardice of the other factions nobles is quite impressive.” 

He looked towards the lords, “Seeing how little they care about the lives of their people based on how little money they throw at their issues is truly brilliant.”

Tim turned to look at Jason, a little surprised, and smiled, "Now, now, don't go saying that to them. They're still trying to curry favor, you know."

Jason looked straight at the muttering nobles who all had turned a faint shade of pink before he spoke. “Oh I would never tell them what happened here, considering that could put the people of their kingdoms at risk.” he turned back to Tim. “Frankly I think you might just be one of the best strategists in the kingdom, brilliant as always sir,” he said with a sharp grin.

Tim smiled and Jason melted. “Why thank you.” He ducked his head to hide his smile as they rushed back to the room.

And Jason followed after Tim. Brilliant, sweet, stunning Tim. His Tim.

_______________________________

Tim felt warmed to the tips of his toes, he could kiss Jason. Tim entered and turned around, smiling brightly and blushing, "I- um..."

“You’re amazing Tim,” Jason said, taking Tim’s hand, stepping close to Tim.

He turned scarlet. Fuck . "I... thank you."

Jason smiled crookedly. “You’re so smart, you know just how the dominos will fall. My beautiful intelligent prince. You amaze me” he said sweetly.

Tim covered his face with his hands, "stop saying things like that at my doorway," he hissed.

“Why?” Jason asked coyly. He closed- and locked- the door, then pressed Tim against the doorframe. “Why can’t I wash you in praise? You deserve it.” 

Tim shrugged, hands still covering his face, "'s weird ."

“Maybe I need to do it more than.” Jason said, pressing gently against Tim. “Because it’s true, I don’t say it but I think it. All the time.”

"Is this a new assassination technique?"

Jason chuckled, “That'd be counter-productive if it was, considering I can’t compliment you if you’re dead.”

"You can sing your praises to my grave," he grumbled.

“How romantic,” Jason said, gently resting his hand on the hands covering Tim’s face. “ But I prefer you alive so I can see how you react to me singing your praises.”

Tim whined, high in his throat, at Jason's words. 

Jason smiled softly “You’re already doing great for your kingdom and your people. All by yourself, Tim. You’re a good prince, and you’ll be an even better king, and I can’t wait to see you become that.”

Tim looked up at him, startled. Jason just smiled, “you should be proud of what you do, and what you will do.”

 
"I am," He assured, quietly, "I've just never... heard confirmation."

 
Jason’s eyes softened ,“I can give it to you. Anytime you need to hear it I’ll let you know,” he said, gently rubbing his thumb on Tim’s cheek.

"Thank you," Tim smiled, leaning into the touch, "You're very kind to me."

“I’m only giving you what you deserve,” Jason said, kissing Tim’s cheeks sweetly.

Tim burned scarlet, "I... um..."

Jason laughed softly at Tim’s face, and cooed. "You're adorable."

"'m not," Tim said, puffing his cheeks out.

"You're a great strategist, but an awful liar." Jason kissed Tim’s forehead, "because that was adorable."

Tim pouted up exaggeratedly at him, "'m not cute ," 

 
Jason raised a brow. "Sure you aren't sweetheart,” he said, kissing Tim’s forehead again, "and water isn't wet."  

"You're kissing me a lot today," Tim pointed out.

Jason raised a brow, "Should I not be?"

Tim shook his head, "No, it's fine. I was just wondering why."

 
"Because you deserve it, simple as that," Jason said sweetly, "do I need more of a reason?"  

 
Tim blushed a brilliant red, "You should stop that," he whined at him half-heartedly.

"Why? Why Should I not? you're deserving of the compliments."

 
"Because," He whined. Then said quietly, "...you're too earnest." Jason’s openness was flat out embarrassing . 

 
Jason huffed a laugh, "Too earnest? You're too kind," Jason murmured. He kissed Tim softly. "Maybe I should tell you this more frequently"

" Noo… "

Jason chuckled and scooped Tim up. "Alright- cuddle time then, you've earned it."

"Shirt off."

 
Jason didn’t even hesitate.

And that might’ve been the best part of it all.

__________________________________________

There’s only a week until training is over. 

Jason's been at the palace for about eight months and it’s times like this where Jason realizes that his fellow knights (most of whom he’s on good terms with) don’t know Tim as well as he does. 

Like now. 

“Honestly I’m unsurprised His Highness hasn’t come back to watch us in four months.” James says to Jason and Kaia slanderously . Jason knows why, it’s because he doesn’t want more rumors to spread and because he’s busy with those nobles and the embezzling. 

“Frankly I have to think it’s because he’d have to fight with us every now and then, I think his hands are too soft for that!” Kaia says with a cackle.

It’s all talk, but it burns at Jason’s brain. He could’ve left it but then fucking James- “Ha! He’s too young and pretty to even dare to raise a sword!” 

Jason gets so furious he sees green . 

“You know. He can keep up with me.” Jason says casually , as if his mind isn’t screaming for blood. 

James and Kaia share a look before laughing. “We haven’t seen you training in at least three months- of course he can keep up with you” James remarks. Jason grins and lures them to the field. with a bet. 

‘If either of you can beat me I'll drop the program today, no questions asked. If I beat you- you must go up to His Highness and apologize to his face.’ 

They bought it- like fools.

_____________________________

Tim pressed his back to the wall. Tim was... well, he was approaching to watch their training today. He wanted to see Jason with a sword in his hand again... and Tim can remain hidden. He heard it all. He's used to it, that sort of inane chatter, the gossip. Nothing he can do about it, considering his position, really. He was of a much higher status, what with the power dynamics, it wouldn't be fair to respond in kind. 

If he acknowledged it at all, then the response would have to be much more drastic, an insult to a prince isn't so easily waved away. It's better to turn a blind eye to these things, really. And yet... It was nice to have someone defend him like that. 

To have Jason defend him like that. It was nice and it made Tim feel warm, heart first and branching out.

Jason opted out of a weapon, quoting that they would ‘need all the help they could get.’ 

Kaia signaled for the fight to start and Jason was ruthless.

He gave them no time to breathe. He was brutal. He knocked them off their feet and threw brutal punches. 

He neglected the flashy moves- going just for pure brutal power and efficiency. Crunching cartilage, hitting pressure points, and bruising muscles- bruising their bones. 

He kicked out at their knees and spun to flip them into the dirt.
The way Jason moved... was not Jason at all. It was all cold efficiency, no mercy, no show of strength, dare Tim say 'mission-focused'.

...This would be how Jason fought under Talia. Tim was touched by the sentiment, by the anger that would inspire this... but he didnt think coldness suited Jason at all. Jason should burn hot - not this calculating- brutal icy fury.

Within a minute he had disarmed both his opponents, both were laying on the ground, groaning quietly, bleeding and already turning purple from the blows. 

Jason wasn’t even breathing hard.  "I believe you'll keep your end of the bargain." Jason said flatly.

The other knight's eyes were glued to him, gaping. He turned to them "If anyone else would like to insult his Highness, you all will see me during training."

Tim couldn't help his smile. It was nice, being defended for once, even if it was…..drastic. 

 
Jason stared down the knights. no one spoke. He nodded- a quick snappish thing. Then he sprung up and left. As Jason got closer to him, Tim snagged his wrist, “Jason,”

 
Jason startled, “Sir? I mean- Tim? Why are you here?”  

"I came to watch you," He said, softly rubbing at Jason’s inner wrists. Sir? Interesting.

Jason blinked, "You haven't come down in a few months, why would you need to observe our training? Usually you just listen to my report, are my reports unsatisfactory?"

 
"No- not at all, I just wanted to see you ," Tim said, "you handled yourself exceptionally well, it was mesmerizing to watch."

 
Jason blinked stunned, “Oh- I understand. I’m sorry, but I don’t think I’ll be going back today,” his eyes darkened. “I don’t know if I could hold back if I fought them again.”

Tim smiled and brought Jason's wrist to his lips, pressing a gentle kiss against the pulse, "That's okay."

“How much did you…?” he asked quietly, shamefully . None of that.

"From the beginning, I think."

Jason’s brow furrowed and he pressed his lips into a line. “I wish you didn’t see that,” he said quietly.

Tim shrugged, "I'm used to it, not much I can do about it, and it doesn't bother me, really." He pressed another gentle kiss into his wrist, "It's nice, though. Having you defend my honor like that," he let out a puff of soft laughter.

Jason melted at the intimate affection. “I’d do it again- every day if I had to,” he said seriously.

Tim hummed. "Jace?"

Jason looked up quickly and met Tim's eyes. “Yes?”
 

"Fighting like that doesn't suit you," Tim said, rubbing circles with his thumb into the inside of his wrists. 

Jason’s eyes widened slightly. He blinked and smiled softly, “I don’t think it suits me either.” 

"I'm touched that you would throw yourself away, but don't lose yourself for me Jay, not over their petty gossip"

    
Jason let out a watery chuckle “I’ll try.” He smiled at Tim “I can't protect you if I lose myself now can I?”

"Mhm, you got that." He pressed another kiss into his lips, "So don't. I can handle myself. You don't need to lose who you are for me."

    
Jason rested his forehead against Tim’s, “I don’t like falling back on my training.” He kissed Tim's forehead. “But I’d do it over and over again if I needed to,” he smiled.

Tim nodded, "You don't." He assured, "So stay right here with me, yeah?"

   
“Always” Jason murmured. Tim leaned up and pressed a short, delicate kiss onto his lips. Jason smiled, “what did I do to deserve you?” he asked.

 
"A lot." Tim said firmly.

  
Jason chuckled, “you’re too kind sir” he said, kissing Tim.

Tim's eyes fluttered closed as he hummed, "not true."

  
Jason rubbed his thumb across Tim’s cheek bone. “Whatever you say.”

  
"Let's go?" He suggested

Jason smiled, “of course.”

Tim loved him. Tim loved him. Tim loved him. Tim loved this incredible man and has never been more aware of it than he was now. His heart ached.

    
Jason let himself be tugged along, “Where too?”

   
"Rooms?" Tim asked, "I'm going to worship every inch of you," he winked.

    
Jason blushed high in his cheeks and averted his eyes with a smile “Oh?” he tugged Tim forward. “Sounds fun.”

     
Tim eyed him up and down, "Very."

___________________________

Jason never had felt so proud. He was being knighted- he was officially a knight it was- it was like a dream.

 
The ceremony progressed, until it was Jason kneeling before Tim. His sword touched his shoulder three times and, "Do you swear your allegiance to the people of Dracaena (The fictional kingdom) and its crown?" Tim asked, voice resonating in the throne room. 

“For all my life- I do” Jason responded confidently. He earned this. 

"Do you swear to uphold The Code, and live by the ethics of knighthood for as long as you live?"

“I do” Jason said, blinking back tears, god of all the things- this makes him cry? 

"Then rise and make your oath, Sir Jason." 

 
Jason stood and turned to his fellow knights. “I swear that I will give my mind and body to protect the crown- and the people of Dracaena (The fictional kingdom) without hesitation.” 

  
"I, Timothy Tatsu Drake crown prince of Dracaena (The fictional kingdom) , do hereby dub thee Sir Jason, Knight Dracaena (The fictional kingdom) , may your courage and devotion become a shining example to the people of the kingdom."

Jason was smiling so wide his cheeks hurt- he did it he fucking did it. He walked down the stage and joined his friends who made it. 

_________________________________

Jason shifted anxiously before letting out a breath. This was a much more closed off affair- maybe that’s why he was so nervous. His eyes darted to Tim, waiting for his cue.

Tim gave a slight nod, motioning for Jason to come and kneel before him

Jason bit his lip and knelt. "State your oath, Sir Jason." 

    
“I offer my life and service to Lord Timothy. I will shield your back, give you council, and my very life if you need. I swear it on every god of the past and future” 

 
"Rise, Sir Jason."

Jason stood and smiled tightly, “Your Highness.” He said, misty eyed before bowing. 

    
"You are now appointed as my personal guard." 

Jason nodded, “and I’ll hold that title with honor, My Lord (My Love) .”

_____________________________

Jason stood outside the joined door. He fiddled with the simple wooden box. Fuck what if Tim didn’t like it?

Dammit Jason you’re a Knight now, don’t be a coward.

He set his shoulders and knocked. “ My Lord (My Love) ?”

“Come in!”

Jason let out a quick breath and pushed the door open. “I….I have something for you.”

Tim blinked up at him, surprised, "For me?"

Jason blushed “I mean yeah, for you. I did a little bit of asking around and– and figured that as a present for you– well I thought you might like this.” Jason rambled. fuck why was he so nervous?

He walked over to Tim and sat next to him. He set the box on Tim’s lap. “There– I’ll shut up now.”

Tim smiled, opening the box carefully and– "Oh, that's beautiful," He breathed out, running his finger along the length of the whip.

“It’s– it’s pure silver– I worked a lot with it– on Nanda Parbat. uh- and 

I used interwoven cables with gold. So it’s classy and powerful.” He joked.

"That's– I could flay someone alive with this!" Tim exclaimed, surprised.

“You could, you can even– with a few well aimed hits– cut through bone.” Jason said, nodding.

"Holy shit! I love it!" Tim threw himself at Jason, hugging him, "Thank you so much, Jason!"

Jason blushed down to his toes “I– you– really? I’m– I’m glad you like it,” he said faintly, bringing his arms around Tim to hug Tim back.

"Yes, really!" Tim said, hugging him harder. "It's so cool! And... and this is the first present anyone's given me as Tim, and not crown prince Timothy Drake."

Jason blushed and blinked quickly, “I– I’m glad you like it.” He paused and kissed Tim softly, “my gifts will always be for Tim. Not for the Prince- he's a bit of an ass from what I’ve heard.”

Tim snorted and grinned up at him, “You got that right.” After a moment, he spoke again, softer. "Thank you."

Jason smiled, “Always, and forever.”

"I'm holding you to that, you know."

 Jason snorted. “I wouldn’t think of anything else Sir. I can't wait to see you use it”

"Me neither," He said, tackling Jason into the bed and kissing him senseless. 

Jason laughed and pulled Tim closer to him. He set his hands on Tim’s sides and tugged. “I’m so excited to see what you can do with that.”

"A lot," Tim breathed, "I'm better with a whip than a sword."

Jason raised a brow “Yeah? Sounds like a good fight,” he said with a half smile. 

"Mm, a very good one."

Jason hummed. “You’ll have to spar with me then, I want a front row seat for you and a whip.”

Tim frowned, "I could seriously hurt you."

Jason grinned “Sounds fun,” He paused for a second, “don’t worry I’ve fought this kind of stuff before,” he said dismissively. 

"No, I could hurt you badly, it only takes one hit."

Jason shrugged, “Sounds fun,” he teased. 

"I don't want to hurt you!" Tim said, distressed.

Jason kissed Tim. “I don’t mind, you with a whip sounds fun, plus I want to see what you fight like in your element.”

"I don't want to hurt you," he insisted, "one hit and I could cut you to the bone with this thing. No, absolutely not."

Jason blinked and processed what Tim was saying. Then he blushed “I– okay, but you’ll spar with a regular whip yeah?”

Tim contemplated, "Okay, yes."

Jason grinned, “Sounds exciting.” he murmured before kissing Tim.

Tim playfully bit at his lip, "Very."

Jason chuckled, “I can’t wait .”

Chapter Text

“ My Lord (My Love) ? Are you ready? We must leave soon” Jason called, knocking on their shared door. “The people are expecting you.”

“I’m ready,” Tim replied placatingly. He strode into Jason’s chamber dressed in a dark purple Sokutai (The formal robes that the Japanese aristocracy and Emperor would wear) .

Jason blushed faintly. Tim’s hair was up in a series of complicated loops. Long pins– silver and intricately engraved– held it together. When Tim looked directly at him they framed Tim’s face with a stylized star. "The people will be stunned," he said with a smile. Then, dramatically, "Now, if you would follow me."

"More like you're stunned," Tim teased.

"I’m always stunned by you, I think I’m a good judge," he said, offering his hand. "Now we have to get to your carriage. Your parents are stressed about the public’s opinion of you."

"My parents can go fuck themselves," Tim hissed.

Jason snorted, "and I’ll agree until I die, but you do need to improve your public relations."

"I'm fine," Tim scoffed.

"Are you? Your kingdom doesn't know you," he challenged with a pointed look. "Now My Lord (My Love) , if you could." He opened the door to the main halls.

"My kingdom doesn't need to know me yet." He pouted.

"They do if the crown is being passed to you My Lord," Jason took Tim's hand. "Now come on– you have a kingdom to speak to."

Tim sighed and shuffled behind Jason mournfully. Jason huffed a laugh and kissed Tims knuckles. "If it helps I'll be there every step of the way."

Tim smiled at him, "Well then, I suppose I could bear it."

Jason smiled back. "See? Not as bad as you thought. Now– come along sir. You have a kingdom to wow."

"You bet I do. "

Jason helped Tim into the carriage, then sat across from him. "Alright, are you sure you know what all you have to do?"

"Yep, got a whole to-do list in my head." As Tim tapped his forehead, Jason noticed that there were strands of pearls woven into Tims hair. 

Jason shook his head, and smiled. "Then to our first stop, the square." 

The carriage soon pulled to a stop and Jason helped Tim step out of the carriage. "Your people await," he murmured before stepping back behind Tim.

Tim stepped out and regarded his people coolly, head raised high, cutting a very princely figure. And he began speaking with the people gathered.

Jason kept a keen eye out as Tim spoke to the people. He watched as Tim....not mingled, but interacted. 

That's when it happened. Four armed common–folk leapt out at Tim from the crowds wielding weapons. Common folk, little to no formal training. 

Leave them dead or alive. 

He grabbed Tim by the back of his fancy-ass shirt and pulled Tim behind him. He raised his arm and knocked two blades aside with his bracer. "My Lord (My Love) -" he shouted, before landing a brutal hit to one of their faces, “You need to leave!”.

Tim took position behind Jason and unsheathed his own sword in preparation. “Are you kidding ?” Jason knocked the sword out of another’s hands and used it to hit the third attacker. He knocked the two down and with a hit to their diaphragms.

They weren’t going to be getting up anytime soon. 

Only one left- he twirled the sword he stole and blocked- this fighter was much better trained. He spent a few moments slashing out at her before finally disarming her. One well-placed punch to the throat and she was out. Tim let out a sigh of relief and re-sheathed his sword.

Jason's heart sank as he saw one more person slinking out of the crowd, wielding a green dagger, they lept out at Tim.

If Jason moved it’d catch right between his armor. 

He didn’t hesitate.

He grunted in pain as he felt the dagger cut through his side. He gave a sharp punch to the attacker's face, he stood up and swayed, then his knees buckled.

"Jason? Jason!" Tim called out, panicked, and moved to catch him.

Jason grunted, “think- think blades poisoned- a paralytic I’m pretty- pretty sure.”

"What the fuck, why would you do that?!" He shouted, panicked 

 “ ‘s my job, My Lord (My Love) ,” he said with a chuckle. “and…and I didn’t want you to get hurt” 

"You idiot that hit wouldn’t have killed me, you didn't have to! I know you're my guard but—”

“ S’not just because I’m your guard,” Jason said quietly.

"I— what? what do you mean?"

“I can’t tell you. “ He looked around at the people around them, “can we- can we leave?”

"I– yes, of course," He said, picking him up and running to the carriage, all the other guards swarming in a frenzy.

Jason grunted as Tim heaved him into the carriage, slow acting paralytic- bad choice on their part. “I can’t- I can't tell you.”

"Why can't you? Tim asked desperately. 

“Because I’m scared of what you’ll do,” Jason said quietly.

"What would I do? What do you think I would do...?" Tim startled, "Jason, you know I would never hurt you-!“

“You don’t have a choice,” he whispered.“You don’t- it’s out of your control. You do or you don’t- but it’s not a choice.”

“Jason, what do you mean? I won't hurt you, ever— I'd never—"

“I’m telling you it’s not a choice because I’m in love with you and when you aren’t it’s going to hurt me- but I can’t pretend anymore” he cupped Tim’s face “Timothy Drake, I would die for you without hesitation, simply because you exist. Not because of any title or job- but because I love you.” 

________________________

Big fat tears trailed down Tims face. Jason’s right, it wasn't his choice at all. His tears fell onto Jason's face, tracing the curves and planes of his cheeks, making Jason look like he was crying too, and Tim couldn't help but feel it was ironic in the most unfunny way, because he was going to hurt them both. 

His tears fell onto Jason's face, tracing the curves and planes of his cheeks. It almost made Jason look like he was crying too. The perfect case of irony, because Tim had to hurt them both. 

"I... Jason. I'm— I'm sorry I can't. I don't know what to tell you, I— I have my kingdom to look out for, I'm... I have a duty to this kingdom I need to marry– and I'm—" Tim's never hated being a prince more. He took Jason’s hand, the tips of his hands were rough and scarred. 

Tim reached out to wipe Jason’s with his sleeve. “I know, and it’s not your fault. I- I knew- I knew from the start that I could never have you, but I’m- I'm okay here, being quiet. And I will never ask you to pick me over your kingdom- your people,” he said quietly “I just- one thing- please?”

"Anything," Tim vowed, softly caressing his face.

“Do- do you love me? At all?“ He asked desperately. “Could you? Could you ever love me? If we were different- a different time could you love me? Would you love me?” he asked, closing his eyes tightly, his tears mixing with Tim’s.

Tim dropped his head onto Jason's chest, clutching at his shirt, sobbing, "You idiot, you— I've been gone for you ever since you could keep your own against me in a fight. God, you're so foolish. Of course, I love you, of course, I could love you. My heart's been spoken for, ever since we met and it's yours." 

Jason kissed the top of Tim’s head and wept. “Oh Tim- I wish I could- I wish there was some way for us to live how we like. I wish- I wish I could love you in public- I wish I could stand beside you not behind you-“ he kissed Tim’s head again “I wish it was different.” 

Tim sat up, wiping at his cheeks. He couldn't answer Jason, he couldn't start wishing for these things. He was the crown prince , he couldn't go down that road. "Let's– Let's get you checked up," He said, voice cracking.

“Okay,” he whispered, wiping at his own face. “The- the paralytic is gonna work through me in about half an hour- I can feel it creeping through my body”

Tim placed one last tender kiss on his forehead, before he composed himself and he was crown prince Timothy Drake again.

“Thank you M’Lr’d” Jason murmured, relaxing completely.

'Anything for you,' Tim didn't say, instead, he gave him one single decisive nod before forcing himself to move on somewhere else. Professional distance Tim.

______________________________

Jason woke up in the medical wing. His throat was dry and his head hurt- he tried to sit up but stopped with a hiss. Right. Stitches. Stab wound. Tim was sitting beside him, sound asleep. The light filtered through Tim’s hair.

It hit Jason suddenly that this was the first time he’d seen Tim’s hair down. He had so much hair. It’s dark and inky. And Jason couldn’t help but brush the hair from Tim’s forehead.

Jason smiled softly and gently rubbed Tim's cheek. God, Tim loved him- but it wasn’t enough was it? He would never get to marry Tim- or be seen in public with him would he? Jason fought the urge to wake Tim up, he deserved the rest. Instead, he laid back down and played with Tim’s hair.

Eventually Tim's eyes fluttered open slowly, "'s'n?" He murmured, pleased, then— "Jason!" He shot up, looking at him, holding his face in his hands then checking him over for injuries.

Jason smiled, “hello Tim” he croaked. He winced, “water?” he asked hoarsely.

"Of course!" He rushed about, bringing a glass of water, "Drink slowly," he advised, as he helped Jason sit up.

Jason smiled and drank- pacing himself. “Thank you, were you…here the whole time?” 

"Of course, I was," Tim said gently, "You got injured protecting me, didn't you?"

Of course he said, like it was that easy.

Jason smiled softly, “I did, and I’d do it again.”

Tim smiled, but he had this pinched look on his face... "Please don't."

“It’s my job,” he said wryly. “But I don’t like being injured, so I’ll do my best,” he said softly.

"Thank you," He said, ever so softly. 

“Anything for you,” Jason said softly.

Tim smiled, and took Jason's hand in his, he knelt down and kissed the knuckles softly.

“I thought we weren’t…You can’t.” Jason said softly, taking his hand back.

Tim smiled. “There’s no one here. I know it’s not fair, but….if you don’t mind being my secret, I still love you, Jace, that’s not going away.”

“But- your kingdom? Your people?”

"I want to kiss you. That’s it. The rest will come with time." Tim brushed the hair from Jason’s face. “So may I kiss you, Jason?”

“But- you-” Jason cut himself off. “Okay.”

"Thank you," Tim murmured, pressing their lips together

Jason hummed and cupped Tim’s face. “You’re so beautiful,” he whispered.

"So you've told me. You too, you know? You're gorgeous."

Jason squeezed his eyes shut and grumbled. “You’re such a sap,” he muttered, flushing faintly.

"I just love you."

Jason covered his face in embarrassment, “I love you too.” 

"I know." Tim said, placing his palms over Jason's hand, "Will you let me see your face, love?"

Jason slowly pulled us hands down. “You can’t do this! I’m injured! You have to be nice to me!” 

"Mmm, I am being nice dear" Tim said, smiling

“Liar! Mistruther!” 

"You love me anyways."

Jason sighed fondly, “Yeah I do.”

Tim grinned up at him brilliantly, "I don't think I'll ever tire of hearing you say that."

 Jason melted, “I’ll say it forever if you ask,” He pressed a kiss to Tim’s forehead

 Tim smiled sadly, "don't feel like that'd be fair on you."

“Doesn’t mean I wouldn’t do it, you have no idea what I’d do for you,” Jason said honestly.

Tim's eyes trailed down to the stitches on Jason's side, "I think I do."

Jason shook his head "You really don't, I'd do so much more in a heartbeat" he said softly "I’d do so much for you- all you'd need to do is ask.’" Maybe he wouldn’t even need to ask.

"I wouldn't. Ask that of you, I mean." Tim's thumb rubbed gently on the back of his hand

You won’t need to.

Jason smiled and kissed Tim. “You’re so sweet, what am I going to do with you,” he teased.

"Love me," Tim replied smugly.

“You’re absolutely right, that’s exactly what I’ll do”

Tim went all soft-eyed and pressed a gentle kiss to the corner of Jason’s mouth.

Jason tilted his head and deepened the kiss. “I love you so much,” he murmured. “I think ... I think I need to tell you about- about my past. You deserve to know.”

"Jason... are you sure?" Tim asked tentatively. “I- I don’t feel ... wronged , by not knowing. I know you trust me, you don’t have to tell me anything.”

Jason bit his lip “I- yeah I’m. I’m sure. You deserve to know- plus I….I want you to know. To understand,” he finished quietly.

Tim nodded, taking Jason's hands in his, "Okay, tell me."

Jason sighed and fiddled with the edge of the blanket. “I don’t remember much of how I ended up on Nanda Parbat, but I was Talia’s favorite soldier. Well, at the beginning I wasn’t- I wasn’t a good listener. I thought too much, Asked too many questions. Spoke out of turn….. and in Nanda Parbat- until you’ve proven your loyalty they- they,” he took a shaky breath. 

“They train you- no. They- they brainwash you. They give you codes to make you fall into line-“ Jason took several breaths. “It took five months for me to be allowed to be out of the haze- that’s what Talia called it at least. A month later I start my actual training.” 

He sighed, “and two years after arriving- I was borrowed by Ra’s, and sent here.”

Tim held Jason's hands the entire time, cradling them protectively. As if he could protect Jason from his past. "I'm going to kill Talia," he spat out, gripping his hands.

Jason shook his head, “she wasn’t- it wasn’t her fault. She liked me- she was kind to me and- and a child. I don’t remember who- but the child was hers- and she cared about me for some reason- it’s so fuzzy” his brow furrowed in frustration. “Why can’t I remember his name? He liked me.”

"Damian?" Tim asked because he wasn't ignorant about the going on of their neighboring country Gotham.

Jason blinked “I- I think so? I don’t- I don’t remember very well- she told me- she told me that her beloved would be happy because of us- I don’t- I don’t remember”

Tim clutched at him, pulling him close. "It's okay, it's okay love. If— if you want to know, we can figure it out together, yeah?"

Jason nodded, “that- I don’t know if I could do that right now- but later, I do- I want to know what I lost,” he said quietly. “I don’t remember- anything just vague- vague impressions and words, I don’t-“ he snapped his mouth shut and let out a long breath, “I’d like that, Tim.” He said finally.

Tim sat on the bed, took Jason's head in his arms, and nodded. Leaning down to press a soft kiss onto Jason's forehead he murmured, "Okay, we'll do that later then. For now, you need to heal."

Jason blinked the tears back and nodded slightly against Tim's chest. “I- okay, I’d like that”

"Do you want me to start looking into it?" He murmured.

Jason paused, “I- yeah I would but please don’t- until you think I’m ready, please don’t tell me about it- I don’t- I don’t want to go to them broken”

"You're not broken." Tim said so fiercely it startled Jason.

Jason flushed “I-  I’m not- I’m not who I think I was- I think I'm missing something- and I want to know what I'm missing before I meet them.”

Tim breathed in, "Okay... okay. I can do that. You just rest up, yeah?"

Jason nodded stiffly. He hesitated before kissing Tim's cheek, “thank you, for– for listening.”

"Of course. Anytime." He kissed his nose, "Anything. For you."

Jason smiled so fucking lovesick. “Would you mind grabbing me something sweet then? Like one of Andrea’s pastries?” He asked conspiratorially.

"Not at all, you just wait here for me, yeah?"

Jason grinned, “victory!” He chuckled, “don’t worry, I won’t be moving, scout’s honor.”

"Can never be sure with you," Tim teased, getting up.

_________________________

It’d been a week and Jason was almost fully healed, so Tim brought Jason to the gardens to celebrate. 

Jason was plucking flowers and dramatically presenting them to Tim. “Look, My Lord (My Love) . A rose almost as beautiful as you.” 

Tim laughed and took the rose, and Jason watched as he gently tucked it into his pocket. His hand went to the flower crown on his head. “Thank you Jace.” 

“Nothing but the best for y…” his voice died as he felt ice pour down his spine. He drew his sword and pulled Tim behind him. He knew this aura- no they couldn’t be here-

“I know you’re there!” He shouted, “Tim you- I need you to run. Run as Fast as you can and don’t look back, do you understand me?” Jason shouted frantically as he looked at the shadows. 

"Run?" Tim asked, offended. “How could you ever think– I’m a good fighter, why would I leave you to fend for yourself?”

“Tim you don’t understand it’s the-” Several people materialized. Rising from the shadows like phantoms. "-League of Assassins." He finished in a horrified whisper.

"Jason. We've missed you," one of them said, voice thin and frayed. "Why did you betray us? Madam is so hurt. You ruined Master’s plan," 

Another one spoke up "She wants to bring you back. She told us you can be retrained– and sent home."

Jason scoffed, “You all know you can’t beat me in a fight, what makes you think this will be any different?” Jason ground his teeth and hefted his sword, this wasn’t going to be easy.

The shadows grinned, sharp yellow teeth pulling back, “Because we aren’t Talias anymore. We were given to Ra’s ”

Jason paled. "Tim run– go please" Jason begged, slashing out at two of them. “This fight has nothing to do with you!”

"You're sick if you think I'd leave you alone with them," Tim hissed, pulling out his silver whip. Tim was a good fighter. That held true, even now. The Shadows were limited by the fact that they weren’t here to kill, Tim had no such reservations. That wouldn't save him though. 

His whip hit one of them and they were flayed to the bone, shrieking on the ground. One was bleeding from the stump of their neck, head sliced clean off with a hit from the whip. Another had several broken ribs and was writhing on the ground pathetically.

But the Shadows had nothing against maiming. They were far sneakier too... not to mention that he and Jason were outnumbered. The Shadows were all clearly highly trained with proper gear, meanwhile Tim was still here, fighting in restrictive clothes.

The longer this fight drew out, the less it would be in their favor. 

Jason knew from the moment Tim didn’t listen that he failed. The Shadows would stop at nothing just to get Jason, Talia was furious- Ra’s was furious. They were both holding their own, true– but the League– they weren't real people . They're nothing more than shadows of their former selves. Jason took some nasty hits, but his only thought was about Tim, Tim who wasn't trained enough to fight more than one Shadow-

"Tim please– please just go– I can't– we can't–" he forced out before taking a particularly nasty punch to the ribs, something cracked and he went down hard.

"I'm not leaving you to the wolves!" Tim argued, increasingly stubborn. Whipping up the bastard that hit Jason with vengeance, the silver of his whip slicing his head clean off.

Jason shook his head "Tim– they– there’s more coming" he said forcefully. He knew exactly how the League worked. "Tim– Tim we won't make it, and they're not here for you."

"Jason I– you're asking me to forsake my heart," Tim tried, pleading with him.

“ Forsake it then-” a wire wrapped around Jason’s neck and yanked him back. 

“You will stand down if you wish for him to keep his head,” The ‘lead’ shadow hissed, holding the wire noose tightly. 

Jason shook his head, “kill them– do it–“ he said brokenly, “leave me.”

Tim clutched his whip, knuckles turning white at the pressure. Jason knew the look on Tim’s face. They’d lost. 

Tim’s whip clattered against the stone pathway. 

Jason slumped. One of the remaining shadows cuffed Jason and another cuffed Tim. Tim for the first time since Jason met him looked ...scared. Afraid, terrified. Defeated. 

Jason let his eyes slide shut. “I’ll– I'll go back to Talia willingly– just don’t– don’t hurt Tim,” he said softly to the wispy person. They nodded slightly, “I’ll tell the madam. I can't do any more for you.” 

Jason looked at Tim, “You’ll be okay love,” he said hoarsely. 

A flash of something washed over Tim’s face, but Jason didn’t have the energy to decipher it. The other shadows began chanting, opening a portal between Jason and Tim. “You first, your Highness. ” one of the shadows hissed. 

Jason could hear the knights running towards them, they were still too late. As Tim stepped into the portal, Jason could hear the other knights running towards them, “YOUR HIGHNESS,” the knights shouted as Tim disappeared. 

 “ NANDA PARBAT-” Jason screamed, choking on his words as a shadow kicked him into the portal. Hopefully the knights could find them now. 

Jason grunted as he hit the ground of a room he knew all too well. “The training grounds?” He croaked, sitting up, and looking at the sloping cavern walls and the green and gold banners depicting the leagues insignia. 

Jason felt the wire around his throat loosen and slip off, “Will she- will she guide me or can I prove myself?” He asked one of the shadows. 

The wispy shadow shook their head, “We weren’t told, be at peace Viper. You were once favored.”  Then the shadows left. Leaving Jason. Here. In this fucking room.

Jason shakily stood up and limped to Tim, “Are you hurt?”

Tim shook his head, “I’m not- but you are !” He said, pushing at Jason trying to check his ribs over. 

Jason shook his head, “Not for long. She’s going to fix me.” he paused, “I’m sorry, it’s not pretty.”

“Don’t you dare apologize-”

Jason shook his head, “No! You don’t understand it’s-it’s horrific, if they bring you don’t look .”

“I- okay, I won’t.” Tim said quietly. 

Jason went to speak but she called out. “Jason, I’m so glad you’ve come back to us, and with a friend no less.”

Jason crumpled to the ground, pressing his head to the ground. “Madam-”

“You’ve failed us Viper- a lying snake true to your name .” Ra’s seethed as he stepped into the light. He pressed his foot on Jason’s head and pushed his head into the ground, “You are stripped of your title- I proclaim thee Ephialtes (A famous traitor in Greek Myth) .” 

Ra’s stepped back, and Talia spoke. “Rise my shadow, you’ve failed us.”

Jason stood, “It won’t happen again madam.” He said blankly.

“We must fix him, he’s Impure .” Ra’s hissed, “Our prized soldier turned to-”

“A whipping boy would work perfectly, don’t you agree father?” Talia asked idly. 

Jason’s heart stopped, “Madam if I may-”

“You may not .” Ra’s hissed, he pointed to Tim, “You, come here. You seem like you could take it.” Talia raised a brow, “ Ephialtes (A famous traitor in Greek Myth) I’m sure you know the rules?” Jason couldn’t move, he couldn't even breathe .

____________________________

Talia looked at Tim with a fake soft smile, “Are you familiar my dear?”

Tim grit his teeth and imagined what it’d feel like to punch Talia's face in. He wanted to burn the Shadows base down. How dare they? How dare they? How dare they?  

"I'm afraid not, madam ." He said as politely as he could manage. He knew what whipping boys were, as a concept, they were a way to control others- a barbaric way to create an ‘undesirable’ group to force a population to work harder, it went hand in hand with the worker ant theory (The idea that out of a group of workers, 20% are extraordinary, 20% are worthless, and 60% are ordinary) .

Talia hummed, “a whipping boy is quite a special position. It requires no effort on your part,” she stepped to Tim.

Ra’s walked opposite to Talia, stepping towards Tim as well. “Every time Ephialtes (A famous traitor in Greek Myth) here messes up, you will take the punishment in lashes. As long as Ephialtes (A famous traitor in Greek Myth) here is good and follows orders, you will live in luxury, do you understand now ?”

"You'll use the guarantee of my safety to force him to do what you want," Tim said with dawning horror. 

Talia smiled, “If Ephialtes (A famous traitor in Greek Myth) steps out of line we'll give you a few lashes, and then he’ll finally understand.” She curled a finger, beckoning Jason. He quickly stood in between Talia and Ra’s.

Ra’s spoke, “ Ephialtes (A famous traitor in Greek Myth) , why don’t you tell Timothy about your first experience as a whipping boy?” He said, snaking an arm around Jason’s throat. 

Jason’s face shuttered and went blank. He stared straight ahead, unblinking. “My tether gave me fifteen lashes on his third day. He didn’t load the weapons properly. He wept. Earning him ten more.” Jason said flatly.

Talia smiled. “ Good Ephialtes (A famous traitor in Greek Myth) . Now will you take your whipping boy to his room? I'm sure you remember.” She and Ra’s linked arms and turned their backs to them. “Training starts at the usual time” she called as they walked away.

Tim knew he was angry as he watched Jason slump to the ground. The sparking fury sitting in his chest was washed away by a tidal wave of helplessness. Knowing that Tim couldn’t do anything, Tim for a second thought maybe this was some horrible nightmare, he didn’t feel real. Jason slowly pulled himself up and off the ground with a blank face. His green eyes a dead gray, as he slowly walked towards Tim. 

With this hell Jason was forced to go through, Tim was grateful he hadn’t run away. Because how could he leave Jason here? Alone?

Jason offered an arm to Tim, “if you would follow me.” He said quietly. He wasn’t meeting Tims eyes. Tim took his arm, ever so gently, and squeezed it in reassurance. It was going to be okay, Tim would make sure of it.

Jason's eyes flickered to Tim’s face and he softened slightly before schooling his expression. “You will be starting in a luxury room. As your tether I'll be across the hall from you. You will go to training and meals with me. Other than those designated times you will be free to move about as you please, possibly with a guard. You may go to the library, the mess hall, and other places at your whims,” he said, leading Tim through the maze that was Nanda Parbat. 

Finally they stood in a hall with doors running down booths sides. “And where will you be? Aside from training?”

“I’ll be in meditation, or sleeping maybe.” Jason murmured as he opened the door to Tim’s room. Tim was blown away, it….it was nice. Not palace worth, but nice nonetheless, a plush bed, carpet, a desk with ink and paper. 

“This is for me? Why” Tim asked, baffled. “What’s the point?”

“You’re my tether.” Jason said in lieu of an explanation. 

“Well, what does your room look like?”

Jason walked to the room across the hall and opened the door. It was plain, just a mat pressed to the wall, and nothing else, it felt like a room for a prisoner.

Hundreds of tally marks lined the wall, some were crusted with blood, as if the person carved them with their nails .

“It’s the same room I had when I left.” Tim’s eyes shot to Jason’s hands, his fingertips which were covered in a strange patchwork of scars.

 Oh hell no.

“You’re staying with me. In my room."

Jason bit his lip “If you don’t mind.” he said hesitantly.

"Of course I wouldn't mind, I offered, didn't I?" Tim said, dragging him back to their room by the wrist.

Jason smiled softly, “Thank you,” he muttered. Jason shut the door to his old room and then followed after Tim. He shut the door behind them. “Tim–I don't– there’s– she’s going to come for me soon and she’s going to bring you with her,” he said quietly.

Tim nodded, "Okay," he said easily, "I'm assuming there's more to it, tell me?"

Jason ran a hand through his hair and sighed, “how much do you know about Lazarus Pits? Of– of Lazarus in general?”

"A lot," Tim said, "it's why they wanted to kill me. Well, amongst other things, Ra's just being a bastard."

Jason nodded, “one of the effects of ... using a Lazarus Pit is not only healing of the mind and body, but also a ... an increase in I don't know but– anger? Drive? it becomes part of you, and it whispers in your ear to do awful things.” he said quietly, looking away from Tim. 

Jason was lying to him. Why?

“Tim, do you know what color my eyes are?” Jason asked after a moment. 

“They’re no t naturally green,” Tim said, filing away the lie for later. “Are they?” He murmured, heart broken. He reached out to Jason and pulled him into a crushing hug. 

Jason wrapped his arms around Tim’s waist and pressed his forehead into Tim’s collar bone. “I had blue eyes. And then I– and then I was brought here. and I– I got hurt. Badly. Internal bleeding and torn insides. They threw me in, and then I came out with teal eyes. Every time they threw me in that damned thing my eyes just got greener and greener.”

Jason bit his lip, “I can still taste the blood.” He whispered. 

“Blood?” Tim murmured, “Oh love,” he said sadly, pressing a kiss to his temple. What an awful thing to do, life and death weren’t made to be tampered with and for good reason.

“ ‘s okay. you get trained on how to…manage it. The– the voice I mean!” He finished quickly. Tim knows Jason’s lying, and it would hurt more if the circumstance was any different.

Jason took a breath,“If you don’t learn you end up so, so, angry,” he whispered. “That's why we meditate. brings peace to your mind. It quiets the pit.”

Tim rubbed Jason's back, up down, "You know, you can tell me  when you start feeling the anger coming on, or feel like you're losing control. I'll make sure to give you the space you need."

Jason kissed Tim's jaw softly. “You make me feel okay, I'm not scared when you’re with me” he said quietly.

"I'm glad," Tim said, pressing a soft kiss to the top of Jason's forehead. "You can still tell me, you know, if we're out or in a crowd and you feel yourself slipping. I'll make sure to get you out, get you the space you need."

Jason sniffed and chuckled, “I’m gonna cry on you dammit” he said quietly. “I love you so much.”

"I love you, too." His wonderful Jason. Smart, brave, strong, and beautiful Jason.

Jason pulled back a little and smiled. “I’m so glad I met you. even if the how was a bit off.” 

"Me too. You can try killing me any time," Tim joked.

Jason snorted and kissed Tim softly. The door opened. Jason pulled back, startled.

“Jason, I realized our guest may not know where to go. I’m here to bring you to your training room” she said beckoning them to her.

Tim’s eyes narrowed, Talia called him Jason instead of Ephialtes. Why?

Jason stood up, "Yes madam." Talia smiled and led the two through a maze of tunnels, before they stopped at a closed room. She pushed the door open, and there was a training room, laid with tatami mats.

 "Jason. You know the rules. Choose your weapon, your opponent will be out soon." She turned to Tim. "You will be sitting on the sideline. I recommend you don't interfere- but do as you please."

Jason walked across the room and picked up two long daggers, then experimentally flipped them in his hands. 

Tim took his seat, observing quietly. 'do as you please.' she'd said, if only he could rip her throat out. Whether with his teeth or bare hands, Tim wasn't picky. But he wanted her dead and bleeding, and he wanted the satisfaction of having done it himself .

The opponent stepped out, a confused look washed over Jason’s face, “Madadm there’s been a-”

“No mistake. Fight.” 

Tim squinted as Jason lashed out, Jason was fighting like he did with the other knights, not causing major harm, just disarming. Why?

“ Jason , you had your opportunity. Do not make that mistake again.” Jason ignored her and knocked his opponent off their feet. There was something wrong about Jaosn’s opponent, they were… small .

“ Jason .” Talia hissed, rising to her feet, “Do you want to start with five-”

Jason shut his eyes and with a squelch he shoved one of his daggers under the shadows ribs. 

Ica poured through Tim’s veins. This was a child. A fucking child . 

" Wrong Jason. you have the advantage. use it."

Jason took a few steps forward, he grabbed the arm of his opponent and flipped them over his shoulder, they hit the ground with a bang and a choked gasp- " Jason , this is your final warning. you know the rules- unless of course your whipping boy should take- what 15 lashes?" Jason paused. 

Tim nodded slowly. “It’s okay Jason, I can take it.”

"Tim..."Jason said softly.

"Jason. remember the rules, or maybe I should grab the barbed-" Jason moved so fast he almost missed it. One moment he’s standing tall, the next he’s behind the Shadow and slitting their throat.

There was blood. Pouring out of their severed throat, the blade cleanly cutting through. There was experience and skills behind Jason's movements, the flick of his wrist, the grip of his fingers. 

Tim didn’t know why he felt so horrified. He knew Jason was an experienced assassin so why did he feel….sick?

Jason held the Shadow’s head with one hand, and let it drop to the floor without flinching. “ Good job, Jason.” Talia cooed. “Why don’t we get you all healed up?”

"What about them?" he asked. 

"You can carry them to the pit if you care so much." Was Talia’s dismissive reply.

Tim clicked his tongue. They knew magic . They could heal him without the pit. And yet they choose to expose him to the Lazarus pit, again.

Jason picked up the corpse of his opponent. “Oh, whipping boy,” Talia cooed. “Follow him, and keep your eyes open .”

Tim wanted to kill her god he wanted to take his whip to her and flay her–

Jason looked down at the body and turned white. Jason bowed to Talia and walked out of the room, blood falling from both of them and hitting the ground with a sick splat

Tim followed, quiet and observing. He was concerned. He hadn't lied when he said that fighting style didn't suit Jason — cold and calculated whereas Jason was fire and passion. It was very much not Jason. 

He must feel horrible, being forced to fight like that — in a way that went against his very nature.

________________________________

Jason moved on instinct. The path to the pit was a familiar one– down three flights of stairs– to a dark cavern that smelled like mildew, blood, and tears. So cliche– he could smell the toxic chemicals of the pit– the acidic green damn near matching his own eyes. The fear bubbling in his stomach made him nauseous– or maybe that's the blood loss.

The room glowed with an eerie light. The voice got louder, follow me, follow me, come to me, I have something to show you . It called to him– beckoning him, encouraging him.

"You don't have to watch this Tim," Jason said quietly. "She didn't come here." Please don’t watch, please .

"I don't mind," Tim said, soft, "It's okay, I love you, no matter what."

Jason bit his lip. Follow me– come to me– I can help you–

He stepped to the pool of green and gently laid the occulyte– the child -, he killed a child – down in its bubbling waters before stepping in himself-

Hellfire.

The water seeped into his open wounds and flooded his body. The water poured into his mouth drowning him, and it sunk into his eyes blinding him until all he saw was green .

He could feel his body being ripped apart atom by atom and slowly pulling itself back together, he could feel every fiber of his being slowly stitching together- vaguely he heard someone screaming- shit that was him wasn’t it?

Jason's entire body burned– he clawed at his skin but the marks almost instantly healed over– he thrashed and writhed– he felt like he was dying .

And then- he was fine. 

He crawled out of the pool, hands digging in the bloody gravel, and vomited- the green of the Lazarus pit mixing with his blood and his stomach acid, staining the gravel- "fuck" he said hoarsely. His fingers dug into the sharp gravel, and split the tips of his fingers open, as he clawed his way forward.

Tim was running up to him, “Jace?”

Jason seized and fell to the ground, landing on his shoulder harshly. “Fucking dont- get back !” he coughed out. He rolled onto his stomach and sifted his hands to his diaphragm and gave himself the heimlich- vomiting more of the green acid. “I said get back !”

Tim stepped back, “Jace?”

He pressed into his diaphragm again and vomited again, blood this time, no green . 

Then the hunger hit. He stood and swayed, “I don’t- I can’t- I’ll hurt you. Get back.” 

“You won’t.” Tim said simply. 

A wave of nausea rolled over Jason, “I always- this is the worst part- I hate it, I hate it, I hate it !” Jason hissed. His stomach rolled, and his soul ripped apart. This was always the worst part. 

“I know sweetheart.” Tim whispered. Tim kissed the crown of Jason's hair and Jason flinched. “How do we get out of here?” He murmured. 

Tim was so fucking close to him. And stars know how close Jason was to snapping. “I can’t- I can’t leave the occulyte here- it’s so much worse when you wake up alone-” Jason said frantically, “They’re new- early in their training and I killed them-”

 "I know. It's okay. You didn't have a real choice. You couldn't have done anything else." Tim soothed, "I don't blame you."

But Jason did. 

Jason's hands tightened into Tims shirt “I can’t- I don’t-“ he spun around as he heard a scream followed by sputtering, “they’re alive– they’re back-“

Tim nodded, "They're back," he assured. "Listen, you sit, and I'll go help them up, yeah?"

Jason nodded, then dropped and hit the sand hard. “Don’t- don’t let the water inside you- it’ll- it’ll fix things that aren’t broken.” The occulyte shrieked again, Jason felt nauseous. 

"Noted, love.”

____________________________

The occulyte was crying when Tim pulled him– he wiped his eyes– big fat green tears.

"Why am I– why am I so– it’s so bad I feel so-" he turned his head and vomited- green lazarus water and stomach acid. "What- what happened to me?" he asked hoarsely.

Tim sat down cross-legged in front of him, "You died." He said bluntly, clinically. "Then submerged in a lazarus pit — probably why you're feeling horrible."

The occulyte blinked “Who- who are you? Why did you help me? Who killed me? I don’t-'' he vomited again– less Lazarus water this time. 

Tim gently rubbed his back. "Tell me what you remember, I'll fill in the blanks where I can."

“I was– I had broken a rule– and I was- I was to fight someone– it was,” his eyes widened, “I had to fight the newly returned Viper– Talia’s- Talia’s Champion, I knew it was a suicide mission.” He said wiping his eyes, “who- who are you?”

"That Viper's whipping boy," Tim said dryly. "Say, what's your name?"

His eyes widened, “You're- his- his whipping boy?” He asked stunned, “I’m so sorry– how many have you had?” he asked, pressing a hand to Tim’s face “I’m- I think my name is Kato.”

"None," Tim assured, "it's nice to meet you, Kato. Do you remember where your room is?"

“None? You’re so lucky- so lucky. I– the uppers tell stories of him- when he started,” Kato looked down. “They say he was whipping boy three times.” Jason inhaled sharply, Tim filed the reaction away as Kato continued to speak. “I remember my room- do- do you need help to yours?”

Tim cut a quick glance to Jason.  "I'm fine, I'm here to help you. Well, you and Jason anyhow."

Kato shook his head, “I can stand- thank- thank you, do you want help?” he asked, looking at Jason for the first time. “He’s had  more of the pit- he’s got it worse than I do.”

Jason vomited again. “Whatever.” Jason said faintly, “Just get me out of here.” 

Tim nodded and turned over to Kato, "I'd love some help, thank you."

Kato nodded and stood up. He walked to Jason and pulled an arm over his shoulders. “Up we go- where’s your room Sir?” Jason shook his head, “ask him” he said faintly. 

Jason’s eyes unfocused, and he flinched, under his breath he muttered, “ thirteen- fourteen- fifteen- sixteen- seventeen-” counting up, but everytime he reached seventeen he started from one again. Tim, filed it away. He had so much to think about. 

"I'll lead you," Tim said, taking Jason's other arm in his and heaving it over his shoulder, he walked through the maze and turned where he was supposed to. 

“Which is yours sir?” Kato asked quietly. 

"It's a bit further in," Tim said, one arm going to Jason's back for support

Kato nodded and smiled, “we’re only a few doors apart- if you want something”  he said shyly. Kato shoved the door open, “come on sir- in you go”

Tim led Jason to the bed and carefully laid him down. "Thank you, Kato." 

“y’r a treat Ka’o” Jason slurred. He turned a sickly color and covered his mouth. Tim winced.

“Bowl- got it,” Kato said, rushing to the fancy table and emptying a ceramic bowl to hold for Jason, he smiled before heaving into the pretty ceramic, it was still green, Tim was starting to hate this fucking color. 

“Uhm- I didn’t catch your name- but other Sir could you please grab some water?” he asked.

"Timothy is fine," Tim said softly, getting the water and handing it over to Kato.

Kato nodded rapidly- childishly– fuck he was what, twelve?– and gently held the cup for Jason, “drink sir,” he said quietly.

Jason drank slowly and smiled. “Thanks, Kato,” he set the glass down. “I’m going to take a bath. I’ll be- back.” he said as he stood limping towards the door, and shutting it behind him.

Tim turned to Kato, "Wanna stay here for a bit, Kato?" He had questions . Kato blinked and smiled awkwardly, “Uhm, I’m okay? I’m just going to sleep, maybe uhm. Maybe next time?”

“You can sleep here.”

“I really should eat-”

“There’s food here, just come sit, rest.”

Kato bit his lip. “O..okay.” 

Tim hummed and brought him the tray of fruit, “Tell me Kato, what happens when someone is revived in the pit?” Tim asked gently. 

Kato winced, “Well, I mean, you go a bit crazy.”

Tim hummed, “I’m aware, what does that mean?”

Kato’s hand came up to rub at his neck and his forearm. Interesting. “Well, life comes at a cost, you know? And we have to pay.”

Tim raised a brow, and Kato crumbled, “You need. You need life.” Kato swallowed, “Blood. Meat. Living creatures. To sustain your new life you must take from another life.” 

Tim paled, “ what ?”  

“You can meditate to suppress the urge- some people chew on their own skin and drink their own blood to repress the affects,” Kato opened his mouth to reveal his bloody teeth. “But it never goes away- not until you. Consume.” Kato held his arm out, there was a patch of light pink scar tissue.

Tim almost vomited as he realized it was a bite mark . 

“When I was a whipping boy, my tether. She was put in, and well. I was the weakest person.” Kato murmured. “She took a whole chunk of my arm with her.” Kato’s eyes flickered to the bathroom door. “I’m amazed he hasn’t snapped yet, He must feel awful .”

Tim’s eyes flickered to the door as well. “Kato, you can’t tell Jason you told me this.” 

Kato nodded, “Yes sir.” 

“Call me Timothy, please.”

“Yes, Timothy.”

Tim smiled and gestured to the bed, “come sit, we’ll wait for Jason-” the door opened slowly. Jason yawned and rubbed his eyes like he’d been crying. Jason walked to the bed and fell into it. 

Tim smiled, “Kato, you should get some rest, I’ll keep watch.” he said, gently ruffling the boy’s hair. 

Kato blushed and nodded. He carefully laid down next to Jason- and squeaked when Jason wrapped an arm around him.

“Tim- Tim what do I do?” Kato whispered. 

"Just let him dote on you," he laughed, bringing over some food and water to Kato, "he was really worried, you know?" He leaned down and whispered conspiratorially.

Kato blinked- “I- really?” Jason hummed and tugged Kato closer 

“Shh- y’r so loud,” he mumbled. He stuck out an arm and made a grabby hand towards Tim, “c'mere~” 

Tim sighed the sigh of the put upon and complied, "I'm here."

Jason hummed and tugged him down to the bed on the other side of Kato “shh- go to sleep” he muttered.

"Will do," Tim laughed, taking the liberty to run his hands through Jason's hair.

“We’re g’n be al’rght.” Jason slurred. Tim smiled fondly at Jason, pressing a kiss to his forehead. 

Kato shuffled closer to Tim. “Is he always like this?” he asked quietly.

"A big softie?" Tim asked, continuing to card his fingers through his hair.

Kato nodded, “he seems so much….kinder than I heard from the elders.”

"Yeah, he's a sweetheart," Tim smiled, unbearably fond. “He’s not as mean as he looks.”

Kato smiled shyly “I’m really glad, I was so scared when I fought him, he’s really strong.”

 Tim's eyes flicked to Kato. He let an arm go across Jason to rub soothingly at Kato's arm. "I'm sorry," he said, quietly, "he didn't want to kill you but, well, he did, because of me."

Kato shook his head “I understand. You matter most– and you haven’t had the pit yet, I'm not mad, it was fast– and that was the only thing he did. He didn’t even use magic which is a relief, magic clashes with the pits.” he said off handedly.

“Magic?” Jason could use magic ?

“Of course, he was an incredible sorcerer, which is why I’m glad he didn’t use magic, it would’ve been awful.” 

Tim's heart broke, in what world was a child supposed to think that dying was a good thing? He wrapped his arms around both Kato and Jason, "What am I going to do with you two?" 

Kato giggled and looked to the side. “I’d– I'd like to keep staying here– when I can. If that’s okay.”

"Of course that's okay," Tim almost cooed, Kato was just so cute,

Kato smiled sleepily, “Thank you” he murmured, cuddling up to Jason. Soon he fell asleep. 

Really though, what was he going to do with Jason ? Magic? Vampirism?  

Tim sighed and kissed the top of Jason’s head. He leaned back and shut his eyes. No one said this would be easy.

Chapter Text

Two weeks have passed. Not that Jason can remember most of it. He’s to busy running forms, strength training, and praying that his need for blood would go away. It sits heavy in his stomach, twisting until Jason can’t breathe. It sits just as heavily in his mind, whispering to him about everything he could do and everything he should do to the shadows and to Tim -

The knock at the door has Jason awake in seconds. Tim rose drowsily. They made their way to the door, only to be met with a Shadow. “Follow me.” She commanded, turning away from them. Jason grit his teeth. Typical. So demanding , assuming things go their way because she’s a Shadow -

Careful Viper, you were the same.

Jason shakes his head, dismissing the thought. Falling in step with the Shadow, Tim trailing behind them through the winding halls, Jason felt wrong .

Ice poured down Jason’s back as he stepped through the familiar halls. 

No . It can’t be . 

Jason recited a prayer– how did he know this? His mind slowed. Thin frail hands, soft murmurs. Screams echoed through the halls- not that Jason could really hear them, not over the apologies, praises, warmth- Jason recited a prayer he’d said a million times. 

He stepped on the slightly fractured stone he always stepped on.

Give me strength for I am weak, 

The Shadow opened the door of his nightmares.

Give me peace for I am haunted, 

She didn’t smile. “It’s time.”

Give me forgiveness for crimes that aren’t mine,

“Jason? What is this?”

And by everything you stand for.

The room is cold. Clinical. Made of pure silver- Jason remembers being forced to burn his hands on the walls- to purge him- barrels in the back, sinks, trays. A doctor's wet dream.

Let this man rot in the pits of hell.

____________________________

Tim’s more than confused. Jason walks like a man condemned. But he stands like he’s being beaten. Hunched into himself. Not touching anything.

The shadow turns the lights on to reveal a surgical table. “Go lay down. I will explain to your whipping boy.” Jason shoots Tim a look before slowly walking to the table to lay down like he’s being buried. Hissing as his skin splits and burns, glowing red hot along every point of contact. Why?

The Shadow turns to Tim, “Stay put. You will not be allowed to move or interfere in any way, or he shall be harmed more than necessary.” It said, stepping to Jason and strapping him to the table.

"What?" Tim asked, tone low. "Why would moving around necessitate punishment for him? Wasn't the whole point for me to take punishment in his stead?"

The shadow shook his head. “Not this time. We must check him. Your interference is not allowed.”

"How is my movement interfering ?"

“You cannot help him or distract him. Stay still and be quiet .” The Shadow hisses. The shadow fades into the wall, leaving Tim baffled. The door behind him slammed shut with a harsh bang.

Tim snarls but steps away from the table. Jason’s laying on the table stiff as a fucking board and he wasn’t supposed to do anything? Just what was this?

Tim whirls around and sees a different Shadow. Where the fuck did he come from?

The Shadow smiles and steps to Jason, he straps Jason to the table and chuckles. “You remember the rules I assume?

“I– I do. I haven't forgotten” Jason says shakily. Tim hasn’t ever heard Jason be… scared like this before. 

The Shadow chuckles and reaches for a scalpel, “we will start with this.” 

Jason nods stiffly, “thank you,” he says empty. A chill sweeps through Tim, it’s one thing to see Jason hurting, hunched in on himself. It’s another for him to lose his tone.

The Shadow cut several neat, clinical, lines down Jason’s chest and stomach. Jason hisses as his skin splits and burns, dark black smoke rising from the incisions- and when Tim looks- from everywhere else Jason’s body makes contact. 

“You’re weaker.” the Shadow murmurs unhappily, as if scolding a child. The Shadow pressed deeper as he held the scalpel horizontally, separating the skin from the muscle. Jason groans in pain, his breathing quickened, ribcage growing and shrinking rapidly.

“Look at you, pathetic. What would madam say? What would the lord say?” The Shadow asked, pressing a gloved finger to the seam between the muscles and skin.

“I'm– I'm sorry can we please move on?” Jason asked between rushed breaths.

The Shadow hummed, “you want to just rush through? Well. I cannot say it’s not admirable.” He shoved his hand into the seam, sliding his hand under Jason's skin, blood pouring down Jason’s side. Jason shrieked and thrashed, but the Shadow paid no mind, he gestured to the tray, “three left. What would you like next?” 

Tim squinted at the tray and slowly took in his surroundings. A barrel along the wall, a tray that held a syringe, a vial of dark liquid, and a lighter.

Jason's eyes darted to the tray, then to the room. “I– water please?” he said just on the cusp of hyperventilating.

The shadow unstrapped Jason and wrenched him off the table. Jason choked in pain, blood trickled down his stomach. Tim covered his mouth, he could see Jason’s muscles , the rhythmic flexing of his-

The Shadow pressed Jason's hands behind his back and pulled Jason in front of the barrel. “Have fun” the Shadow muttered before shoving Jason’s head into the water, and holding it there.

Tim jumped up– he didn't approach, he wouldn't dare interfere and risk Jason further but– “What are you doing ?!”

Jason's body twitched, he shook and started to thrash. “My job whipping boy,” he spat before wrenching Jason out. Water fanned out and soaked the floor. Droplets landed on Tim’s face– ice cold. The water was freezing.

Jason took a few sputtering breaths– each breath sending more blood pouring down his front. Then without warning, he was shoved back under. “Four more to go.” the shadow murmured, tightening his hand in Jason’s hair, forcing him under. Blood poured down the edges of the barrel, if the barrel wasn’t a dark red already, it would’ve stained. Tim looked to the floor beneath Jason’s feet, every drop of blood that hit the ground hissed, fizzled, and burned into the floor.  How many times has this happened? To whom? 

Tim had violent thoughts before, but nothing like this. Tim wanted to murder him. He was going to tear this Shadow apart, limb from limb. Tim could picture him painting the walls in the Shadows blood -

The Shadow sent a sharp look at Tim before pulling Jason back. Jason made a pained sound– chest heaving– he made a choked noise- a scream maybe- but before he could finish the sound he was being forced under. “Three more.” the Shadow said to Tim. The water bubbled ominously.

Jason was still screaming.

Tim hissed at him. "I will kill you .” Tim seethed, how dare this lowlife-

The Shadow smiled, “You can surely try.” He pulled Jason’s trembling body back and shoved his hand back under Jason’s skin; Jason shouted in pain and the Shadow laughed, forcing his head back under.

Tim could see himself ripping this man apart, ripping him open and feeding every organ to a fucking crow- branding him- carving his name into-

Finally- finally , he tossed Jason back on the table, shivering and pale. Jason’s body hissed as it hit the metal, Jason moaned quietly and arched away from the table. The Shadow picked up the syringe, and the vial, “Which?” He asked, facing Tim. Tim’s eyes widened, he can’t be–

“The vial.” Tims said slowly. The Shadow smiled, “Good choice.” He set the syringe down, and opened the vial with a snk .

He poured the contents onto Jason’s stomach, and Tim’s heart leapt into his throat. It’s dark green but it’s so clearly oil. It’s oil. There’s oil inside of-

The Shadow took out a lighter, the gold casing glinting under the cold lights. “This is one of my favorites .” He flicked the lighter on.

“Don’t- wait- Please don’t-” Tim rushed. 

The Shadow ignored his pleas, and instead brought the flame to Jason’s stomach, where the oil is tracing down his bloody skin, seeping into the muscles and organs in his chest. 

In a flash, Jason’s on fire. Engulfed in a flash of hellfire.

The resounding scream is nauseating. 

High pitched and hoarse. His voice breaks and crackles as he thrashes on the table. Thirty seconds pass and Tim claps a hand over his nose as he smells Jason. Wafting from Jason’s body is the overwhelming stench of sulfur and (p) something sickly sweet and horrifying that coats Tim’s tongue. Tim wished he knew what it was.

Charcoal, acid, and pure terror mingle and fill the room with the smell of death.

He’ll never forget this. Tim crumbled to the floor and vomited. Jason’s screams will haunt him for the rest of his life. Fuck he just saw Jason’s organs-

As suddenly as it started, the flame burnt itself out. Jason’s screams don’t stop, but he bites his lip and finally, he quiets to half-muffled whimpers.

“That leaves this then,” the Shadow picks up the syringe lovingly , and Tim’s never felt more afraid than this moment. Tim knows all too well what the power of one injection from certain toxins holds. 

“What is that?”

The Shadow smiles, it might just be Tim- or maybe it’s the smoke inhalation, but its teeth seem to glint in the cold light. “Snake venom, bred from the Lord's own personal collection.” He flicks the end of the syringe and squeezes a fat drop of the clear liquid out the top.

Tim’s heart stops as he traces the bead of venom with his eyes. “You can’t be serious, he’ll die .”

“No one can die here. Not when we have the pits, besides,” The Shadow’s smile stretched wider, “it’s only pain.”

Tim flushed in anger, “you can’t just-”

The shadow shrugs while slipping the needle into Jason’s forearm. “ Watch me. ”

Jason stiffened, blood trickled down his rib cage, “stop.” He whispered. “Stop, please .” Jason seized and shook, writhing back and forth, causing the table to shake and rattle. 

“Careful Champion, if you fall I won’t be helping you up.” The Shadow said idly. Tim grit his teeth and watched as Jason shook and shrieked. 

Jason twitched towards the side, and the Shadow gripped Jason’s hair and threw him onto the ground. “Look at what you’ve done . How are you going to stand up now?” 

The Shadow tipped its head to the side, “Whipping boy. Take him to the pit. After all,” he smiled sickeningly, lips pulling all the way to his eyes, “I’m finished with him.” 

"Fuck you .” Tim spat at the Shadow, spattering across his face. The Shadow chuckled and grabbed Tim’s face, “Don’t tempt me.” The shadow murmured as he traced a line across Tim’s throat, “Just give me a reason .” The Shadow dissolved into the darkness before Tim was able to hit him. That bastard .

A high pitched shriek brought Tim back to his surroundings. Right- Jason .

Tim rushed to Jason's side, fretting over him, gathering him up into his arms. "Jay?" He said ever so quiet, his voice breaking like his heart. “Jay honey?”

Jason’s face was blistering and red, flushed and scorched. His stomach was open– Tim bit his lip to stop himself from vomiting again that was Jason’s liver – “Please- Tim-”

"What do you want? What do you want, love?” Tim gasped between tears. He gently brushed Jason’s sweaty  hair from his forehead. “Ask and it’s yours.”

“Help— ple– I can’t - make it stop .” 

Tim thought, for a minute, "I– does the pit hurt?"

“ Please I just- yes it does– but I need- there’s no other way .”

"...does it hurt less, if someone's with you?"

“I don’t want you to go– don’t leave me alone– don’t go– please don’t leave me,” he said, reaching out to Tim, smearing his blood across him. “It’s wrong but I can’t- please- I don’t want to hurt you but- please don’t leave me-” Jason clawed at his face, “Why does everyone leave ?!”

Tim grabbed Jason’s hands, “Jay- Jason- honey I’m not leaving okay? I’m right here. I promise.” Tim hefted Jason into his arms, Jason shrieked in pain and Tim murmured an apology. 

“God– kill me– please mercy, please .” he begged quietly. Blood slipped off his body and hit the ground in sickening splats .

"I'm sorry. I'm sorry love. I'm so sorry." Tim babbled, pressing a kiss onto his hair. Should he? Jason– the pits will revive him…should he?

Jason sobbed and squeezed Tim’s arm, “Mercy please- mercy Tim– kill me please.”

"Okay– okay I– just– Okay. Okay Jay I– Okay.” He’s shaking. Why are his hands shaking? Fuck. He’s killed before? Why is this so hard?

He laid Jason down on the floor. “Okay honey– just– uhm–” Think Tim– something to– to relax him. Good last moment. Okay fuck. 

A lullaby. Okay. Think Timothy– surely mother must’ve sung something to you at some point in your godforsaken life! 

Tim hummed a half-hearted tune, something he vaguely remembered. Jason’s face relaxed slightly. 

Tim’s face shuttered, he kept humming and knelt. He laid Jason’s head on his lap and rested his hands on either side of Jason’s head. 

He hummed and waited for Jason’s eyes to flutter shut, he squeezed his eyes shut and jerked both his hands to the left.

Jason’s neck broke with a snap. 

Chapter Text

“What have I done,” Tim whispered. What if Jason doesn’t wake up? He’s just killed Jason. Tim's eyes burned and tears slid off his face. 

He carefully picked up Jason’s broken body. And he stood. “Jason– I– I’m so sorry– I’m sorry Jason– forgive me, please. Gods above forgive me- mercy on me– forgive me– Hades judge me mercifully–”

He trudged through the halls muttering prayers, dripping blood down his hands, hitting the ground with a rhythmic patter. 

Tim stepped into the room with the pits. A nauseating green light pulsed, Tim stepped forward and dropped to his knees before the waters. "I love you, more than anything," Tim said, gently lowering Jason into the pit. “So please don't leave me here alone.”

Tim killed him. He’s never coming back oh gods he killed Jason. 

Tim sobbed. His breathing picked up– he can’t see– fuck Jason. Tim turned to the side and vomited. He killed Jason. Jason- dead. 

He’d never get to marry him.

The water bubbled. Jason rose from the water silently. Tim looked up and shrieked, Green poured from Jason’s throat and stomach, Tim watched horrified as Jason’s insides bled green blood. And he watched as Jason’s intestines knit back together. 

Jason gurgled and green poured from his throat like a waterfall. He looked ethereal. Hellish. Magical. It was horrific. His eyes burned green–

And he crumpled forward, hitting the sand hard.

“JASON-” Tim rushed forward and waded through the water. He grabbed Jason and pulled him out towards the sand. Tim pulled him out of the waters with so much force he stumbled back, and Jason was laying atop him. "You alright, baby?"

Jason rolled off of Tim and vomited blood. “Back– go away– get back!” Jason shrieked and clawed at his face, bleeding green. The claw marks burned green and healed over instantly. He vomited again, pure green. His back healed and for a moment it looked like he had green wings folded against his back.

Jason screamed again and writhed on the sand. Tim rubbed his back soothingly, "I'm sorry Jason, please just breathe, it’s okay. Breathe Jason.”

He sputtered a bit before sitting back on his heels, “Fuck– I always– I always hated that fucking room. I hate that room more than this pit– and I hate that fucking Shadow– I fucking hate it here“ he screamed, wiping at his eyes, his tears were green. Tim really hated the fucking color green.

"I'll kill him," Tim swore. “I’ll kill him and I’ll– I’ll–”

Jason smiled half-heartedly “Of course, you will,” he said tiredly. “Can we– can we go to the room?” he twitched nervously. “I can’t be here- I hear it-”

"Of course, whatever you want, love." He rushed, gently picking Jason up, tucking Jason’s head against his chest.

“I love you,” Jason whispered.

"I know, I love you too," Tim said, helplessly, holding Jason closely. Protectively. What else could he do, what else has he done, but watch Jason be hurt?

The walk to the room was silent.

Tim pushed the door open, and gently set Jason on the bed, "anything you want?"

“Just– I just want to sleep– I’m so– I’m just so tired,” he said, covering his face with his arm. 

"Okay, go to sleep, love." Tim murmured, pressing a kiss to his forehead, "Do you want me to stay with you or…?"

“Just until I fall asleep?” he asked quietly. 

"Of course," Tim agreed easily, sitting on the bed beside him and carding his fingers through his hair

Jason curled towards Tim and hummed. “that’s nice…” he slurred tiredly

"Sleep love."

_______________________________

Tim placed one last kiss onto Jason's forehead before getting up and forcing himself to go out.

Magic. Magic existed. 

He leaned against the wall and took a deep breath. When they were first kidnapped the Shadows used a portal- meaning that magic could be learned. Right? 

Magic would be a useful tool to have, and if there’s any way for Tim to keep Jason out of those fucking pits- he’d find it. 

Fuck how would he learn magic? No one here would teach him and sure he might be smart but even he couldn’t self teach magic when he has no idea where to even start-

Kato. Kato would know magic, and would teach Tim. If needed Tim can even pull the life saving card-

Tim took a deep breath and began walking down the hall. When he brought Kato to the room he mentioned being close by….

As he walked through the hall three young shadows– children– ran past him giggling as they shot sparks of magic at each other. 

God these were kids.

Tim came to a stop before the door Kato had pointed out. Tim rolled his shoulders and knocked, “Kato? Are you in there?” He called through the door.

“Tim?” Came the muffled reply. Soon the door swung open to reveal a confused Kato, “Why are you here? Come inside, it’s not safe in the halls.”

Tim blinked as he was ushered into the room, “So why the visit?” he asked as he sat on the floor of his room. 

Tim hummed and followed suit, “Well Kato, I want to learn magic, and I think you might be the only person who can teach me.” 

Kato blinked, “Oh. That’s all? Yeah of course I can teach you magic, I was actually just working on some stuff for my Enchantment 402 class, so you actually stopped by at a great time.” Kato reached for some books scattered about on the floor, “What were you hoping to learn?”

Tim shifted to look at the books, “Healing magic ideally.” 

Kato hummed, “makes sense. Okay do you want to start with theory or practical?” Kato asked, looking up at Tim.

“I….I get a choice?” Tim asked blankly, “I think it’d be best to start with theory– I’d like to have some idea of what I’m doing.”

Kato groaned, “Ugh, of course you want theory first.” He grabbed a sheet of paper and a pen and began drawing a strange diagram. “Magic isn’t really magic, it’s energy that we apply to things- like kinetic energy.”

Tim blinked as Kato drew a pentagon, “Okay, energy. Got it.” 

“Now the human body has natural inclinations to certain effects their magic can have. Manipulation, Enhancement, Mutation, Emission, Conjuring, and Specials are six kinds of ‘effects’, and depending on what you’re good at naturally that tells you what else will come naturally.”

On each of the points of the pentagon he wrote the ‘effects’ and in the center he wrote ‘Specials’. Tim was already starting to feel lost. “So everyone…has special manifestations and an inclination to one side of the…..pentagon?”

Kato smiled, “Yes! And you can learn an effect even if you aren’t physically inclined to it, it just takes a lot of focus and extra energy. Take me for example, I do best with Conjuring, I’m great at summoning things, and I can just sort of will things into existence, however because of that I do horribly with Enhancement- meaning that I need incantations to heal or to strengthen.”

Tim blinked, “So are incantations only used to force your magic into a contradictory effect?” 

Kato grinned, “Bingo, and everyone has a specific way they can train their magic.”

“I now see why you didn’t want to do theory, it’s……” Tim trailed off.

“A lot? Yeah, here, let's move to some practical stuff- you want to learn healing magic right? We’ll start you with incantations and see how you like it.”

Kato reached behind him and grabbed a sheet of paper, “So healing magic isn’t actually healing, it’s accelerating. Less like the pit and more like stitches- or like glue if you perform on inanimate objects.”

“Similar to actual medicine?”

“Kinda, you know what– it’s easier just to show you.” Katon hummed and pulled out a dagger. He sliced across the back of his forearm, "So– clearly I’m bleeding right? My magic knows that this isn’t how my body is supposed to be- so when I use a healing charm my body knows how to ‘fix’ me.” He murmured a few words under his breath and the cut knit itself together, leaving nothing but smooth skin behind. 

He looked up at Tim, “If you’re like me and don't do well with enhancement magic the size of the wound will determine what charm you need.”

“So it’s totally healed- er restored?”

Kato nodded, “No scar’s no nothing, though this is technically a higher level of magic than what you’ll start with– unless of course this is how your magic manifests.” He made another cut and spoke a different set of words. The wound knit itself together but left a pink puckered scar, “See, different spells, different complexities, similar results.”

"Fascinating," Tim said as he nodded along into the explanation, while complex and sort of unfathomable– there did seem to be logic to it. A formula. Something to be emulated.

Something to be repeated.

“Alright- I’m going to have you try on a piece of paper,” Kato tore the page in half and handed the two to Tim. “I want you to imagine pushing something into the paper.”

“Something?”

“It’s– uh, imagine pushing the air in your lungs– your bone marrow- or your spinal fluid into the page to help it heal.”

“Whatever you say kid.” He held the two pages together and….pushed? Into the paper, it slowly knit together- the broken fibers reaching and reconnecting with each other. It wasn’t perfect- the page was connected, but it rippled and the texture changed.

Kato nodded, “Wow, that’s better than I managed my first try- try it again and then we can move up.” He tore the page again in a different place and handed it to Tim.

This time Tim felt more confident, he brought the two pieces together and took a deep breath, as he exhaled he let the energy– it really did feel like something in his bones– seep into the page. Once he was done, there were no puckers, just smooth paper.

Kato whistled, “Wow, that’s really good– here try this.” He cut a new line on his forearm and offered it to Tim. “Okay! Same idea, however our energies clash- so imagine you’re giving me your energy so I can heal.”

“I…..Okay..” Tim swallowed nervously, but took Kato’s hand, took a deep breath, and pushed. 

Kato winced slightly, “Think more about helping me- not that you’re doing it yourself..” he said strained.

Tim adjusted quickly, “Am I hurting you– oh my gods-”

Kato relaxed, “Perfect– there you go,” he said with an easy smile. As the wound knit together Tim could tell where he screwed up, the top of the cut was pink and puckered, twisting the skin around it. 

Tim’s stomach dropped, “Oh Kato I’m sorry–”

“Wow! That's really Impressive- you should be proud– you’re taking to this much better than I did– I think we’ve found your element!”

Tim ruffled Kato’s hair, “It’s because I have such an excellent teacher,” Kato blushed and waved him off.

“I didn’t do anything special– your magic seems really driven, I bet you lean toward the modification magic.”

“Lies, I couldn't have done this without you,” Tim insisted. “Wait, what do you mean by ‘modification magic’?”

"Your will power drives your magic, and you seem to be very determined– and you seem to just take to healing very well. You should also– later on– try transformation based magic!" Kato’s eyes lit up as he spoke, and gods Tim just wanted to hug the kid.

“Mhm..”

“So back to the theory of it all– the transformation triad is Manipulation, Enhancement, and Mutation, it’s one side of the pentagon, they all affect already present things- meaning that these are the kinds of magic you’re best at. You work best with already made things and changing them in some way.”

“Now- I do well with conjuring things, so I fall in the Creation Corner. I'm good at conjuring, emitting, and manipulating. For instance I can conjure weapons– and then change them mid attack- it’s pretty nifty.”

"It does sound incredible," Tim agreed, eyes lighting up at the prospect of new knowledge. He’d have to do his own research. 

Kato nodded and smiled, “See if you try to use magic that’s opposite to what’s yours– while you can do it– it’s incredibly complicated– but I will say that this chart isn’t quite accurate.” he said with a chuckle.

"You're quite knowledgeable, little one."

Kato flushed, “Well– magic theory is just so interesting you know? Well the whole library is open so,” he rubbed the back of his neck. “Well, I spend a lot of time down there.”

"The whole library is open?" Tim asked, eyes lighting up.

Kato nodded, “There’s no restricted books– really you can take anything– it’s not even really a library, more just a room of books– you can take anything you like– though we try to write what books are missing, just because it’s polite– but you can take whatever you like for as long as you need!”

"That's awfully convenient."

Kato shrugged, “Well if you want to excel in your classes– why would they stop you? It’s counterproductive to them.”

Tim hummed, "Makes sense.” Tim went quiet for a monet. “Say, Kato, have you gone through the pain tolerance training?"

Kato’s eyes darkened and he looked down. “I have. It’s not fun. At all. I hate the test.” he said quietly. Tim’s heart broke.

Tim pressed a soft kiss to his head, "I'm sorry," he murmured. Keeping his voice even, "Do you happen to know where his room is? The torturer?"

Kato shook his head. “I don’t know which is his but I know the hallway.” He smiled slightly, “But I could ask around a bit–“ his face paled, “Did you..? Did you have to go through that?” He asked, scrambling up to grab at Tim’s hands. 

"Not me, no." Tim shook his head. He wished he'd had, instead of Jason. He wished he'd taken his place. "And I'll be okay with the hallway, thank you."

Kato slumped in relief, “I thought– I thought you had been sent to the pit–“ Kato fidgeted with his hands, “He’s in the fifth hall from the arena, uhm to the left.”

"Not yet," Tim shook his head. "Thank you, Kato."

Kato reached out to Tim, “Promise– promise if you do you will tell me?”

Tim's eyes softened, "Of course." He caught his hands in his.

Kato slumped, “Good– I don’t– I don’t want you to go to the pit.” he said quietly. “It'd change you.”

"It won't erase what's important," He assured. He won't stop being gentle, he won't stop loving them… he won't. 

Kato bit his lip. “…promise?”

"I promise, Kato. On my life."

Kato smiled softly. “Okay, okay I believe you.”

"Good." Tim said imperiously.

Even if Kato’s worry was endearing, it begged the question. How many times has Jason been changed?

_______________________________

The door opened and Jason looked up from where he was lying. He was still on the bed– but this time he was on top of the blankets– relaxing rather than sleeping. "Tim? what’s up?"

"There you are!" Tim grinned, bouncing over to him, "I've got news." 

Jason blinked and sat up. "Yeah? Good news I hope." he said with a small smile.

"We won't need to go to the pit as much anymore," Tim said, "I can heal most cuts now, consistently too."

Jason smiled, "You're learning magic? Oh Tim, that's wonderful."

"Yeah," Tim nodded, laying his head against Jason's shoulder, "Now you won't have to hurt so much, anymore."

Jason smiled softly, "You're so good to me Tim" he said quietly, lovingly.

Tim shook his head, "Not at all. You know, ever since I came here, despite being your whipping boy, I've never been whipped once. You keep hurting for me..." he trailed off. 

Jason cupped Tims face. "I'd rather be harmed than you, for every reason you know– and more." he said softly.

Tim kissed him, "I know. That's why I want to help you as much as I can."

Jason smiled. "I love you so much" 

"I love you more," Tim said, rubbing at his back, and then, "...Hey, Jay?"

Jason raised a brow. “....Yes?”

How do you tell the love of your life that you know he’s lying to you. Especially in this situation.

"Kato– and Ra’s mentioned that... you'd been a whipping boy. Three times."Tim started.

Jason sighed quietly. "I knew....I had a feeling you'd ask" he said quietly. "It's true, in my time...here....I've been a whipping boy three times over. It was different every time."

"If you don't want to talk about it... that's okay." Tim said, pressing a kiss to his shoulder.

Jason shook his head. "You, you deserve to know." he tugged his shirt off and sat with his back to Tim. "The pit doesn't– doesn't heal scars. Not if the wounds were healed with magic." he sighed. "The first time– it was a woman named Trentia. She– she had become problematic in the– in the system. and I–" he paused, "I had only been here for a few months."

Tim gently traced over the hundreds of scars with his fingers, eyes soft and sad. He hummed.

Jason hesitated. "I– was– I was young– too young. Fifteen? Sixteen? I can't remember, I remember so little– but so much at the same time. I was chained up– it was awful and she didn't– she didn’t even flinch while she– while she–" he shook his head. "You know."

Tim's breath hitched. He wrapped his arms around Jason and pulled him close, burying his face in his back, "I'm sorry," He said, hoarse.

Jason rested his hands on Tims. "Then– then it was the heir– I dont– Damon? Donton? I don't know his name– it was training for him, not a punishment." he said, trying to push forward.

"Damian?" Tim asked, surprised.

Jason blinked, “I- yes that- how did you…?”

“Talia and Bruce had….a relationship of some kind. The prince now lives in Gotham.”

Jason’s brow furrowed. Bruce. Bruce. Dark hair, light eyes, strong hands and a low voice. 

Whisps of memories that he couldn’t hold onto. 

“Damian- he was young. But he liked me.” Jason swallowed. “He knew his mother favored me, and took to me as well. Ra’s hated his heir having….” Softness. Companionship. Someone to care about. “Weakness. He made Damian whip me for hours.”

Damian wept the first time. Big fat tears that only a child can make. Eyes red and snot dripping from his round nose. The tears hurt more than the whip, Damian's cries were louder, anguished sobs that Jason could still hear if he let himself.

“And the third?” Tim asked softly.

“A man named Joseph. Older than I, he treated me well. Kindly.” Jason shuts his eyes. “If we had more time I could almost say he liked me. He was executed eventually for treason. He tried to protect me. He played the perfect slave.” 

Jason falls silent and takes Tim’s hand. “I’m sorry.” 

“For what?” Tim asks softly. “You’re stuck here, because of me.” 

"I chose to stay. You told me to run, I didn't. And I don't regret it, I'd do it again." 

Jason bit his lip. “You’ve flipped the script on me,” he said with a chuckle.”I’m the one meant to lay my life down for you.”

"Yes, good. So, I chose to stay with you, I chose to come here or well, be abducted with you. I don't regret making those decisions."

“You should. I’d’ve gotten out eventually”

“And we’ll get out eventually.” Tim says firmly, like a promise. Jason feels something pang in his chest, because Jason knows that he wouldn’t have escaped. Not by himself at least. “Together.”

Jason leans forward and presses his lips to Tims. “Sap.”

Tim pulls away and smiles. “I just love you.”