Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Loved flamingpudding on tumblrs concept of Danny is the son of Selina and bruce. But I needed to tweak it a bit and the timeline. But I just love this so much.

Timeline tweaks, Danny had his accident at the start of jr high 6th grade. So he was 11 not 14. Keep the rest, no phantom planet. He spills the beans at the start of summer at the end of his jr. high. So he is now 13 going on 14 when his next school year starts. Damian is 13 months older than danny. (Danny is gonna be the new baby.)

Start of flamingpuddings wording.

Danny wasn’t supposed to know yet. Jack had it all prepared for when Danny would learn about his origins. This was not how he was supposed to find out. Jack Fenton wasn’t sure how to react, so he ended up reacting in the worst possible way judging by how his sweet little boy was looking at them.

Jack tried to remember where it went wrong. Jazz had come to them, told them Danny wanted to have an important talk. That was so important that she needed both of them to focus on him seriously. It had worried maddie and him at first. When they sat down on the couch facing their children, they weren't sure what to expect. But then his boy told him about the accident he had in the lab. About things changed even asking them if they ever noticed how danny’s behaviors changed.

Jack had to admit then, that he hadn’t really noticed and it made his mouth taste like dirt. He didn’t like where this was going. He saw how his children exchanged glances and then his sweet boy told them the truth. And Jack could feel the horror overtaking his entire mind. The accident had changed Danny even worse.

He couldn't help but remember a term he had last heard long ago before his college years even . metahuman. His son had become a meta human with ghost based powers and had kept it a secret from them for 2 years. Jack didn’t know how to react then and still didn’t know now. All he could think about were the horrors he had put his sweet little son through. All the times he had offhandedly said he would tear him apart molecule by molecule. How much fear did his son have to live with until he gathered the courage to tell them. Most likely only because jazz was there to support him?

Jack didn’t want to imagine it anymore. All he wanted was to hug his little boy and tell him that everything would be ok. But before he could do anything , maddie, his until then wonderful wife, told them something in return they had agreed to tell him at another time when he was 18.

“You’re adopted. You are not my child.”

Until then Jack had always thought maddie loved danny just as much as he did. But as he looked at his wife and saw the steely coldness flickering in her eyes, his mind filled with distress. He wasn’t so sure anymore if they felt the same for danny. Torn between being angry at maddie for the first time after so long and wanting to comfort his boy, jack could do nothing but sit frozen as his beloved family broke apart before his eyes.

Suddenly maddie and jazz got into a heated argument, danny was starting to draw into himself, making himself smaller watching his mother and sister fight. Until maddie stormed out of the room. Jazzie gave him a challenging look, but Jack didn’t know what to say so instead he decided to tell his son what they had planned to do when they originally intended to share the news.

“Danny, you know how we have barely any contact with family from my side. There is a reason behind it. But the important part here is that the only one I do keep sort of contact with is my fourth cousin. Even then it’s nothing more than a couple messages every few months.”

“And what does that have to do with danny?” jazz pressed on while his little boy finally got the courage to look up at him.

“Dann-no, i need for you to know that no matter what you are or what i am going to tell you, you are my little boy son. And you always will be.” Jack did everything he could to stare reassuringly at his boy and smiled once he saw him smile just a little too, he was most likely relieved that he was taking the news better than his mother.

“About 14 years ago, my fourth cousin contacted me out of the blue, till then we had only exchanged a couple of words and theories and projects. But that time was different. She was panicked, unsure, and distressed. I don't know the specifics, all she told me was that she had gotten pregnant with a child from a fling she wasn’t sure she wanted a relationship with or not. And that she couldn’t take care of a child in a city as dangerous as the one she lived in, or with her job.”

Understanding dawned on his daughter's face and Jack smiled fondly at her. Jazzie-pants had always been a smart cookie. “She didn’t want to put the baby into the system where she lived, not late for a stranger to take care of them. So she asked me if we would. And from the moment I saw the little baby the first time. The day she gave birth. I knew he would be my son no matter what or how long she would want for me to take care of him.”

Danny blinked wide eyed at Jack as finally his boy also understood what he was telling him. “Technically you are my fifth cousin, but I would prefer for you to stay my son for as long as you want.”

He left his children after telling Danny the truth of his origin. Jack knew he would love his son no matter what he was or his reaction towards the truth of his origins. Still he hoped this would not tear his family apart and that it would only take a day or two for maddie to cool off. For things to go back to adjusted normal. Jack mused that he would have to dial back on the ghost ripping comments he wouldn’t want for his little boy to live in fear in their own house.

That’s what he thought until he saw his wife stewing in their bedroom. Muttering about theories and how their boy wasn’t their boy. He knew his wife, and dearly loved her. But it was because he knew her that he did the next thing he felt like regretting the next moment.

J: Danny is no longer safe with us.

He didn’t get an answer from his cousin and the next morning he knew why. He did expect for her to want to remove Danny from their care, but he did not expect her to visit him with barely any time delay the next day.

(this is where i start to more heavily change flamingopuddings post but i am following her post closely as possible.)

All he could do was stare and watch as Selina appeared on his doorstep, glaring at him, asking if she could meet her boy. Asking how much he had already told Danny about his birth. And when he saw his baby boy's reaction to his birth mom, he wanted to do nothing more than hug and cuddle his little boy, but was beaten to it by his fourth cousin.

His poor boy looked so unsure when Selina hugged him that Jack really wanted to take him away again, but he had no other choice. If he wanted to ensure his boy’s safety, he needed to leave with his bio mom.

(end flamingopuddings post and jump to mkarchin713’s addition. With some modifications.)

Vlad was unsure how to feel about all this. Jack had dropped a number of bombs all at once.

One jack knew that daniel was a halfa. Sort of. At first Vlad had been afraid that Daniel had outed him as well but calmed quickly when he learned Jack was under the impression Daniel was simply a meta with ghost-like powers.

Two maddie had rejected daniel. Maddie, his sweet maddie had disavowed her own son upon learning about his power. Jack had caught her planning how to best deal with the creature who was her son. Vlad could not believe how much *despair/regret/pain/betrayal/ jack was broadcasting with a tiny liminal core.

Normally Vlad would have celebrated the opportunity to court maddie himself but the more Jack explained what maddie was planning the more Vlad's obsession for her shrank and the more Vlad's obsession with having daniel as his family grew.

Three Daniel was adopted. With this knowledge the dream he had of being the father to maddies son broke into a million pieces and with it his obsession with maddie. Which had only been hangin by a thread due to her being Daniel's mother.

Oddly enough, admiration for Jack grew and the hate he felt for his old friend faded away. Jack had taken in a child barely related to him and raised the boy as his own. Even now, knowing Danny had powers of beings Jack claimed to hate, his love for his adopted son won out.

Four Danny was no longer safe with the fentons. Now that maddie knew what danny was, she would not rest until she destroyed him.

Jack knew it.

Vlad knew it.

Worst of all, Danny knew it too.

Five Danny was with his bio mom now. Before Vlad could even offer to take in Danny, Jack revealed that Danny was already long gone. His bio mom had flown in that night, and back out again with him in hours. Vlad could feel his core screaming. *findchild/protect child/whereishe/ishesafe.

Jack refused to tell Vlad where his son was or who he was with. Jack was the only one who knew where Danny came from and the less people who knew where he went, the less likely maddie would be to find him.

No, vlad was not sure how to feel about all of this. His love for maddie was officially dead. His friendship with jack beginning to heal. His desire to be there for danny was steadily growing. No, vlad was not sure how to feel about all of this.

(end mkarchin713’s contribution. And start mine.)

“Now kitten, don’t let Harley or Pam scare you. They are both wonderful people and friends once you get to know them. If just a little bit odd” she smiled back at her son who stood nervously behind her. 2 suitcases, a duffle bag and backpack with him. “If they become overbearing tell them to give you space or come to me ok? If you’re uncomfortable living with them, we can go find a new apartment just the two of us ok? But i’d really like to try the 4 of us living together for a bit ok?”

“Ok ma’am.” Danny said softly, head bowed and cross arms hugging his elbows.

Selina turned to fully face danny. Her key lowered by her side. “Danny, you don’t have to call me mom. I don't expect that from you. And I know this is a lot of change, and heart ache for you. I don’t want to add anymore to your plate. But i want you to know, i hope you can grow to find yourself to take comfort and safety in my presence. You don’t need to be formal with me, kitten. I love you. And I want you to be happy and safe. You can call me Selina, kyle, kitty, kit. Any variation you can think of. You don’t need to call me ma’am. Same with my friends you are going to meet ok. Don’t make yourself meek on our account.” she sighed as she looked at him meeting his eyes with a smile before turning back to the door. “This is gotham. It isn’t meant for the meek. I don’t want you to just hide and survive here. I want you to thrive. Keep your chin up kitten. You’re not going to offend me or my friends. Be yourself. That’s all you need to do.” Selina opened the door and swung it in. before reaching back for two of the bags.

“Girls, come meet our newest family member.” Selina called into the house. She sat the two bags down to clear the door and then waved Danny in past her. Shutting the door behind her as the two hyenas in the house bound up to them. “Don’t worry about…” Selina stopped and gave a bemused smile as her son dropped his bags and fell to his knees to greet bud and lou with coos and pets.

“Oh my gawd, why do you have hyena’s?” Danny smiled while giggling petting the exuberant animals.

“Well looks like he’ll fit in with us just fine there kitty.” Harley said amused as she came into the living room where she could see the entry. She was a bit more disheveled than her usual self in her pjs. And a sleep wrangled Pamela was slowly following in after her. “Good thing you didn’t act scared. They’d have ate ya then." Harley laughed.

“Stop trying to scare him harley.” Pam scolded her girlfriend. “Welcome home Selina. Want to introduce us now or in the morning?”

“Naw it’s ok. Animals don’t really scare me. Most seem to like me for some reason. But that doesn’t answer why you have them in the middle of a major city.” he laughed out looking up to the other women who were now next to his bio mom. His jaw dropped at full sight. “Holy crap, you’re poison ivy! Sam is gonna flip!”

“Well i guess maybe we don’t need introductions.'' Ivy said sardonically. “Who's Sam, sweetheart?”

“one of my best friends back in amity. she ‘s like a huge huge fan. Can I get like an autograph from you to send home to her?”

“Well ain’t he a charmer. He’s totally your spawn Selina." Harley turned back to Danny at Selina's eye roll. “What about me? What am i? Chopped liver?”

“Harley, you're out of makeup, he’s from the midwest. The news is probably his only reference. And sorry kitten. We can’t send mail just yet. No contact back home till we can get a secure non traceable form of communication set up alright?”

“We can get someone started on that tomorrow afternoon. She’s gonna be crashing soon.” Pamela said with a kind smile.

“Ahem,” Harley gestured at herself with a flourish while staring down the teen boy still crouched on the floor with her hyenas. “Chop, chop kid, or I'm taking back bud and lou.”

“Ugh harley….” he turned to Selina who started mouthing words at him. She pulled her mouth corners up and made her eyes big. He looked back at Harley closely. “Harley…”

“Clown.” Pam said clearly. Ignoring her girlfriends' indignant huff.

Danny shuddered away ducking his head into his shoulder. “Ugh, I hate clowns. They give me the creeps. I, uh, may have a mild coulrophobia from a thing that happened." Danny stuck out his tongue at the thought till his head popped back up. “Wait , doesn’t Gotham have like a killer clown couple?”

“Former couple. I dumped that abusive maniac years ago. Now it’s just me and Pamela, and occasionally Selina too.” Harley corrected. Before she huffed as he still just looked at her with a sheepish grin. “Quin. Harley quinn.”

Danny’s brow furrowed with a pensive look as he tilted his head to the side. “Like dr. harleen quinzell?”

All three women gaped at him. “How is that that’s the name you know and not harley quinn?” Selina asked incredulously.

Danny shrugged. As he climbed to his feet finally. “Um jazz, she wants to be a physiatrist. She's really into reading a lot of medical journals and stuff. And that was the one she liked their publications the mosts…" Danny answered a little unsure.

“Who?” Pam asked.

“My older sister.”

“Well where’s she at?” Harley smacked Selina's arm. “You tell me you missed out on a two for one special?”

Selina rubbed her arm while glaring at harley. “Jazz isn’t mine. And as much as i would have taken both kids out of there. Pretty sure that would have fired up madeline even worse.” Selina hissed. “And she wasn’t the one in danger. Atleast,"Selina looked back at Danny with concern. “Your father didn’t think jazz was in danger from your mother or those government idiots. Was he correct?”

Danny rubbed the back of his neck. “Well, right now, no she’s not. Not unless the GIW suddenly develops more sensitive ecto readers. And if that happens, well jazz won’t be the only one in danger. Basically everyone who has lived in amity for the last 10 years or more has the potential for being heavily ecto contaminated. The GIW just can’t pick up on anything less than a full or half ghost. But I'd say at least half my school is laminal enough that if they could get a reading they would qualify for designation under the anti-ecto acts." Danny grabbed one of his upper arms across his body. “Mom and dad were the ones who invented most of the GIW tech. And dad said he’d refuse to build anymore so, I mean that;s probably a low probability. But not impossible. Mom’s more of a biologist, she can build stuff, but not like dad. He was the inventor.”

“We’ll keep that in mind. Hopefully your father is wise enough to give me a heads up if things change on his end again.”

“But um, if you want a 2 for one special. I do have a younger clone sister/daughter/cousin out in the world somewhere.'' Danny said with nervous green and hunched up shoulders.

All three women stared at him in wide eyed shocked concern. “There is so much to unpack in that choice in phrasing.” Harley said hands steepled before pointing them at danny. “That is a tomorrow afternoon discussion.”

“Yes, it’s late. Let's get you settled into your new room for the night. So we can all get a good night's rest. I have a feeling the rest of the week is going to be rather exhausting. Might as well start it with an attempt at rest.” pam said gesturing towards the door that led to the stairs to the upper floor where the bedrooms were.

“Come one kitten.” Selina picked up one of Danny's bags and Harley another as they led the boy to his new room.

Chapter Text

Danny had come down stairs very quietly, not wanting to disturb his new guardians. He found poison ivy in the kitchen making breakfast. Even though time wise it was closer to lunch.

“Good morning there sweetheart. Is there anything you can’t eat? Or won’t?” she asked with a gentle smile.

“Uh no ma’am i can eat anything.” Danny answered. Shifting from foot to foot. “Do you need me to do anything? I can try to help?”

“I’ve got it handled but if you want to learn the kitchen layout feel free to sit at the island counter with me.” she gestured to the bar stool behind her. And was very happy when selina’s skittish kitten made his way to it. One of her plants sat in the windowsill, its vines spreading out to help her as she worked. It seemed to have captured Danny's attention as she worked. “My plants are connected to me. Though they have a bit of a life of their own, they won’t hurt you. They know you’re part of the household.”

She caught the little duck Danny did into his shoulders. “Sorry for staring.”

“It’s alright. You have powers to correct?”

“Yeah but I can never just use my powers like that.” he gestured to where they were putting away the dishes from the dishwasher. “Like for normal things. I can only use them to like fight other ghosts or break into evil labs and stuff. Or fight tech that hurts other ghosts.”

“And why can’t you?” Pam asked.

“Because it makes people uncomfortable, and like my parents built weapons into the house that I would trigger to attack me if I did.” Danny answered. “Or my parents would have shot

“Well neither of those is an issue now. So why don’t you try to use them to do something mundane to make your life easier.” Pam countered. She pointed at the coffee machine. “Can you use your powers to make coffee?”

“Uh yeah I can move stuff, like that’s basic level haunting.” and Danny turned on the pot and popped the top, removing the pot to the sink to fill it. Ivy’s vine opened the cabinet for him where the coffee grounds were kept. He went through all the steps and got the pot going and put together the bag of coffee where it came from.

“Now how does that feel?” Pam asked with a smile over her shoulder. She was stir frying vegetables now before adding the eggs on top for her frittata.

“Nice,” he said shyly. But he gave her a grin of his own.

“Don’t make yourself small here. Be you. You will be better for it. And so will we. we aren’t going to judge you for being different. Stretch your wings here. Treat Gotham as your playground.” Pam tossed her frittata in the oven. “Now, why don’t you start the kettle too.” he grinned at her tossing open all the cabinets to find the pot. She smiled back. “With your powers though, I will not accept a single excuse for the communal toilet having the seat left up.” she pointed her spatula at him.

He laughed at her, but nodded in agreement.

Chapter Text

“Danny would you be up for going out shopping with me today? We need to get you some more clothes. And new sturdy shoes.” she smiled at him as he looked up from where he was tucked away on the couch with a screwdriver and a few of his parents, the fentons, inventions he had taken apart in his lap. “We can get you some stuff to personalize your room too.”

“You don’t have to. I can make do with what I have. It still fits.” Danny said.

Selina stared at him down a moment, taking in how he was sitting and his features. “Danny, do you not want to go? Which is ok. You don’t have to go shopping with me. Or do you not want to go because you don’t want to spend money?” she caught the wince.

“I mean, stuff is expensive. And I can…”

“Money is not an issue. I’m not saying we are going to go nuts and buy a whole store full of stuff at once. But you are not a burden kitten. It is not a hardship on me to get you things you need. And clean and non-holey clothes and shoes are a need. You look to homeless, rumor is batman kidnaps you to be his next robin." Selina said to him.

That got a small chuckle from Danny before he noticed her lift a brow at him. “You’re joking?” she tilted her head a bit at that mouth tight. “You are not. That’s a thing?! He just kidnaps kids to make them into his sidekicks?”

She held her hands out palms up in front of them in a what can you do movement. “That is the rumor.” she watched Danny shove all the parts he was working on into his stomach. That was an interesting and useful skill he had demonstrated after a few days and more encouragement from Pam to use his powers as he saw fit in the safety of the house. He was on his feet now rooting in his chest till he came out with a wallet and phone.

“I have a little bit of money.” he said, showing off his measly $20.

“How about you save that for something you want to get yourself like a treat ok? And I want to get you the things to settle in with us, ok?”

“Ok Selina. Thanks.” he ducked his head a little bashfully. Still nervous.

“Thanks for going with me. First we need to go pick up my car. It’s in a garage a few blocks over. I don’t need it often. We usually get around fine with the bike and vespa. But I think we will need the trunk space.” Selina said, leading her son out the house locking it behind them. “You ok riding on the back of my bike with me?”

“Yeah, I've rode a motorcycle before.” Danny said. As they go down the alley between their building and the next one. Selina pulls out one of the spare helmets she has from inside Harley's vespa. Danny took it from her to put on. He used his powers to get on the back of the bike with her. Having to readjust a bit from the different style of bike than johny 13’s it didn’t take them long to get to the girl’s garage for bigger vehicles. Danny took off his helmet to gape at the vintage car in black that they would be taking out. “Seriously this is your car? Are we going to get car jacked?”

“No kitten. Everyone knows better than to mess with catwaman’s car.'' Selina said smugly climbing in. Danny phased through the door into the purple interior, absolutely giddy laughter coming from him as he looked over the interior.

“You completely customized it for aesthetics.” he laughed.

“Of course. We aren’t going to go out if it’s not in style kitten. This is gotham." Selina said, pulling her cat's eye sunglasses from the sun shield and putting them on. Once on she turned to smile at her son in his seat laughing at her dramatics. She pulled out into crime alley before pulling onto the streets of gotham. “Alright, clothes or room first? And what kind of store would you feel comfortable shopping in?”

“Um for clothes, can i thrift. I’d feel a lot better about doing that.”

“That’s fine. But what’s your preferred style? We can find a consignment boutique to match any aesthetic you'd prefer. Finding your style and flaunting it is good for you.” Selina teased. Danny chuckled and tapped the cat charm hanging from the rear view mirror.

“Um, that's kind of, I've never really tried to style anything. We had to thrift and so options were what fit and in good condition. So I mostly just did t-shirts and jeans. Which a lot of kids at school recognized as their old clothes. And I'd get made fun of for.” Danny answered looking out the window. “Can we find a hobby store? I'd like to get some plastic glow in the dark stars if that's ok to put on the ceiling or my door.”

“You can do anything you want to your room or bathroom. You could spray paint the walls and stab weapons into them. And that'd be perfectly fine. Express yourself anyway you see fit. We can try a few places for you to see what styles fit if you want to try something new.” Selina carefully offers. Watching from the corner of her eye as Danny seemed to be thinking. Pulling at his fingers a bit.

“Um my friend sam. When she’d take us out to something, she’d dress me and tuck up too. In her preferred aesthetic, which is very goth. She’s kind of like ivy, but goth. She idolizes ivy. Sometimes that makes her clash with our friend tuck. Cause she tried to force the whole school to go ultra recyclo-vegan and tuck is an avid meat eater. It actually caused my first ghost fight.'' Danny said almost fondly. “They have both calmed down since then and learned to compromise more.

“Did you like when she dressed you up? Like the clothes outside the memories with your friends?” she got a nervous shrug in return. “Was there something you liked more than others if not the whole style?”
“I liked how I looked. Sam is really good at dressing us up. We never looked bad. She even did our hair and make-up.” Danny said with a shy chuckle. Rubbing his arm a bit.

“Danny, you know the east coast cities and especially gotham, less crime alley, but gotham at large in our niche community. Make up isn’t shunned or looked down upon for boys or girls. Gender norms in general aren’t as socially rigid. If that is something you enjoyed back home but didn’t feel supported to express yourself that way, we will certainly give you the space to do so." Selina encouraged gently.

“I don’t…”

“You don’t have to decide one way or another now or ever. If you just feel like it at some point, just let us know whenever it tickles your fancy. Harley and I have a ton of makeup you can use as you see fit. You can’t use Pam's. She uh, likes to experiment in a different way with her makeup.'' Selina tried to placate, stumbling at trying to skirt around the issue with her friend's weapon choice. Danny was smiling again.

“I did like the darker look. Jazz hated it though. She thought I looked like a delinquent.”

“Your clothing doesn’t make you a delinquent danny. Actions do. If you were too busy being a hero to be a delinquent I'm sure.”

“Sam tried to argue that with her. But we got a lecture about impressions and appearances and presenting ourselves as we wish people to perceive us. And how it wasn’t going to help us with college acceptance if we didn’t look more positive.” Danny told her.

“Jazz pushed you to tell your parents about being phantom too right?'' Selina asked carefully. “Did she try to push you into a lot of things you didn’t really want to do?”

“You make it sound bad. You’re… you’re not understanding… I'm not explaining it right." Danny said defensively. “Jazz was the only one looking out for us. She was trying to help. Was it a bit much sometimes, sure. But she was doing it because she meant well and she wanted to help. Even if we didn’t always listen to her.'' Danny said sharply. After a long silence in the car he spoke again. “She was trying her best, the best way she knew how. She was right alot, but sometimes we chose what we wanted over what she knew was best.”

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to make you feel like I was attacking your sister." Selina apologized. She let them sit in silence for a bit longer. “I know some goth consignment shops. And a few punk ones. Would you like to look at them?”

“Sure.” Danny answered. “So where exactly are we going?”

“To the mid island. It’s an area called Grand avenue. It’s where a lot of the shopping centers are. I’m hoping to find your hobby store and a home goods store. Then we’ll hit burnside for the alternative thrift shops. And if you are up to it, we can even hit the south island and go to the fashion district, but that is going to be more high end stores.”

“Pass.” Danny said quickly.

“Ok, that;s fine. Do you also want to look into getting a nightlife outfit? For safety for now I think phantom should stay in amity. But I'm not going to pin you down. You want to go out and play hero, rogue, anti-hero. We are fine with that.”

“I do want to help take down the giw. And not have them ping me right away as phantom. I don’t want to draw that attention here. But I do need to protect and help people." Danny pulled at his fingers. “It’s hard to explain. It’s a part of me, and if i don’t i might fade. Or get really weak and sick. I might not heal either.”

“You can die if you don’t play hero?” Selina asked carefully.

“It’s kind of like starving is the best way I can describe it.”

“Alright, well keep a new look or persona in mind while looking for things too. I have a guy who we will get you a good mask. A true hero grade one ok.”

“Ok.”

“Why don’t you tell me about some things you like while we drive. It might help me help you find things.”

“I love space. I wanted to be an astronaut before. It’s why jazz was trying to help push me to do the best for college. But that dream kind of died with me. I like video games. My friends and mine’s favorite is this online multiplayer called doom.'' Danny got quiet. “I guess I can't safely login to my account on there huh?”

“Not right now, but hopefully in the future,” Selina offered.

“I like anime. And anime adjacent. That’s another big debate between tuck and sam. It’s really funny. I used to skateboard. But kind of stopped. It was hard to deal with my board. It didn't fit in my body when i got to go ghost. Um, I like music. A Lot of metal, punk, rock. Some rap, country, pop, language doesn’t really matter.”

“Even though this is a vintage car. It has been updated. You can put music on if you want.”

“You sure?”

“Of course. Whatever you want.”

“Wanna blast thrift shop?”

Selina laughed. “Go for it. We can do some car karaoke.”

Chapter Text

The Hobby store had been quick and easy. Danny had found his stars, some space themed wall stickers. A wall mural of space. A solar system mobile that Danny explained the inaccuracies of. But still wanted it to modify.

The home goods store was a little more difficult, the higher prices had Danny more reserved. It took several times showing how little price difference was between basic versions and what he actually liked. Because he was getting everything on this list she had made with the ladies. And some of this danny you need more than one of. So they had found some nice star and moon printed towel sets for his bathroom. A couple of galaxy print sheet sets. And one comforter set with pillowcases. She made him pick out a throw pillow for the couch. They found a moon one. Would go nice with her cat face, ivy’s monstera leaf, and Harley's jester hat. He also had to get a throw for the living room. (several but the ladies would like to get some as gifts so one of his own choosing.) they found one from the anime space dandy. They also found him a star-shaped bathroom rug. And a pacman shower curtain. They struggled with a rug. Danny didn’t like any at the store with their price tags. And she wasn’t going to let him settle. So they compromised to look later online. Maybe something custom. She also noticed him checking out the squishmallow pokemon but he didn’t pick one out. And she didn’t want to push him. But added it to her mental list for possible gifts. Black out curtains were limited. But they at least found a color he liked. Getting bright green and black.

The hardware store for tools and paint, had been a bit trickier. Danny would get side tracked by tools, then quickly put them back when he caught Selina looking. Poorly feigning ignorance. Till she just started going behind him and dumping everything he touched into the cart. And him trying to put them back without upsetting the workers ended poorly. They came to a compromise. Danny would find a kit with a case, of the most basic tools he needed to do his projects. And they would come back after assessing what Harley and her had around the place already. They even got a can of plasti-dip in neon green to color coat his tool. And a can of spray paint to jazz up the rolling case. Wall paint and door paint was another hold up. Danny had seemed indecisive at first, and then had kept touching dark colors then going back to beiges but looking sad. “Danny if you want your walls and ceiling and baseboards and doors black, neon, graffiti d, glow in the dark. It does not matter. You can do 100% what you want. You can do every 3 feet a different color ok?” that had seemed to work. He went with a very dark blue nearly black. And they picked up a can of glow in the dark paint to go with it so he could add more detailed smaller stars to his ceiling and walls. Selina had grabbed a few black lights to add to the ceiling fan.

Selina had wanted to go to a furniture store. But Danny insisted on thrifting his side table, desk and dresser. She was going to have to hire someone to move them for her from the store though. So they put it off for now. She had also suggested a safe, when Danny informed her he could store things in the walls and floors like his body. And usually just relied on that to hide things. Which was useful.

But then it came time for clothing. They hit up a gabriels, for the basics. Like socks, underwear, some undershirts. Some oversized t-shirts for pjs. Pj pants of various anime and cartoon affiliations. Lilo and stitch, cowboy bebop, outlaw star, gundam, wall-e, some aliens and other cryptids. And even some hoodies. Danny had found a ufo, nasa, martian manhunter, and a nondescript black one she insisted on. Along with no-descript black sneakers, and jeans. They even found an alien Lisa frank backpack that was a miss print so it was darker.

Then as a peak choice for clothing shopping Selina drove them to gotham waste underground. Her and Harley's favorite punk/goth/alternative boutique consignment shop in gotham. It was in the village. She wondered a bit if Danny being a ghost would pick up on the supposed mysticism the area claimed to be heavily veiled in. She kept an eye on him. Noticing as they grew closer he was as animatedly dancing or singing to the music he was playing. And seemed to pull his shoulders closer to his ears. “Is everything ok?” Selina asked.

“Uh, yeah, we are uh, getting close to what kind of feels like a haunt but not exactly. It feels like more even. It’s hard to explain. Like a ghost and a haunt melded. . . oh Gotham I bet has a city spirit. And that’s why the city as a whole feels like a haunt. Even if there are smaller haunts within.”

“Is that a concern? For you? I know you said your parents' work was all junk, but you were fighting a lot of ghosts as phantom, is that a thing to worry about you being attacked?” selina asked.

“When we got to the airport I felt like the big haunt that is Gotham, but it doesn’t feel hostile. It was curious, and heavy, gloomy, a bit sick, but I mean if they were going to attack me I think they would have." Danny shrugged. “I mean, whoevers haunt you live in is way more hostile, and they haven’t hunted me down for trespass yet. So there is that. Maybe Gotham ghosts are less fighty? But this, this feels like a lair, or core, or both and more. I’m not exactly sure. I’ve never felt, or met someone like this.”

“Well, we are headed to the village, which is where my and harls fave store is. But it’s also supposed to be an area heavy in magic. At Least that’s the rumor. I didn’t usually pay much mind to magic but maybe i need to pick up a little working knowledge considering.”

“If you want to, but don’t feel like you have to. I don’t actually know anything about magic, magic. Sam started digging heavily into the occult after everything. But uh for being considered a magical being, my working knowledge is pretty heavily based on science. And mostly like physics and engineering, some biology, probably about as much as most humans know about their own, but even for a ghost mines wonky. I hit up frostbite for the tricky bits. And he’s working off some really old scrolls for my medical needs. Since halfas are rare. Or should be. I mean there is 4 of us currently.”

“Well if that is the case anything feels off, let me know and we can leave ok?”

“Yeah. everything is fine, it just feels kind of intruding, but like the emotions are not changing? So I think it’s ok.” Selina decided to trust his judgment and they continued on. And was she happy she did. His face lit up so much like a kid in a candy store when they walked in. He took tons and tons of photos to save to send to his friends later. It was so cute. And Selina got to have that picture perfect mom and child clothing shopping bonding outing. Watching her son try on so many outfits while she sat outside the dressing room to critique, he picked out some things for her to try on and catwalk. They even did some matching outfits. Benny taking tons of pictures for them with her phone. She made sure benny lied to danny and told him everything he really liked was consignment and not new. She didn’t want her kitten to feel guilty about liking or wanting things. White lie wasn’t going to hurt. They ended up with some wide legged pants with hardware and straps. In a few colors, a denim vest had been found with some ghost patches already on. But it was mostly sparse. A fishnet top that looked like spider webs, and some leather gloves, and mid shin combat boots. With little black colored steel plates. Would be good for his new hero suit. He even found a patch work band t-shirt quilt for his bed. But the one she grabbed when he wasn’t looking was a dress. It was green, black and white. Patchwork style, made of t-shirt material mostly with denim binding on the edges with hardware. The sleeves held on by cording and a chunk of the lower left half so it could be turned into an asymmetrical shirt too. He hadn’t come out in it. But had been in the dressing room a bit longer when he took it. And though he had tried to sneakily put it back, he had lingered a bit too long and Selina had noticed. So it was coming home. Benny had even dug out a ghost pin, and a nebula on from the bowl up front to have ready after noticing what stuff danny liked. They got those too. Chatting with Benney a bit about music and video games. Till he had to close up the shop.

Danny was in high spirits on the way home. Chatting away at her, about the things he had seen that he thought each of his friends would like. Cataloging the pictures he took to send them. From things they’d like themselves, and things they’d like for fun. And then their silly pictures. The energy was still there when they got home. Harley, and Pam helped them unload the car, with Danny telling them all about their trip. And a lot of the items he picked out. Even the shows he’s stuff was from. Danny eventually found himself exhausted after dinner from his eventful day. Going to bed with Harley offering to help him decorate his room tomorrow. Selina went with him to strip his bed and put on his new bedding. Pam had put it in the wash when they had gotten home.

Once he was settled in, Selina made her way down to their basement quiet room. Making sure to shut the door. She sat in the steel chair in the room. The only piece of furniture in there. And cried clutching at a tiny blue knit cap. She cried for every memory and opportunity she had lost when she had given up her little boy. And for nothing. That was the hardest part for her. All of it had been for nothing; everything she had sacrificed for Danny to be safe, was for nothing. Her son had died anyway at a young age. The door opened just enough for Pam and Ivy to shove through Harley's giant bean bag couch. The women pulled Selina down onto the beanbag couch with them, and held her why she mourned the life she gave up with danny. And mourned her child who had died. That way she could move forward with her new life building new memories with her child. She wasn’t going to let this second chance go to waste.

Chapter Text

“Alright kiddo let's paint de town red!”

“The color swatch says endless midnight sky.”

Harley snatched the card from him as he poured paint into several roller trays. The floor and bed are covered with drop clothes and away from the walls.

“Alright let's paint de town blacky-blue. Right?'' Harley corrected, tossing the swatch card behind her and holding up two rollers. Her and Danny had on painter suits with hoods.

“Wait!” Pam called out and from the safety of the hallway passed both of them plastic science lab style goggles with her plant vines.

“Thanks Pammy.”

“Thanks.” Danny had a ghost shield above his head and several hovering rollers.

“She gets out of control, feel free to come get us downstairs.” Pam said cheekily, ignoring Harley sticking out her tongue at her. But she left them to their project. Danny turned on his music and gave Harley a nod. The two tackled the walls for Harley and Danny the ceiling. He floated up with a roller in hand and 2 more with his powers. Another floating paint brush also under his control. Harley took to the job with all her normal focus. Which left Danny laughing at all the big gaps, but it didn't take long for him to do the ceiling and then he helped with the walls. Trim took a little longer and they went over it with a black paint. Then he and Harley took off his door to spray paint it outside in glow in the dark paint to give the walls time to dry. They were going to put the wallpaper mural up behind his bed. They had turned a few box fans Loose while they painted the door and took Bud and Lou for a walk around the neighborhood.

Once back they sat down to eat lunch with Selina and Pam who had cooked a vegetarian lasagna for everyone. Harley kept putting a new slice on Danny's plate each time he finished and acted like hadn't already eaten one. After he had half the pan they both went back up to affix the wallpaper mural. Which took them no time at all. And Danny could get full even pressure with his powers. He then moved the bed back into its new location. That left stars. Harley stood next to danny as he closed his eyes and picked up the glow in the dark paint from the can in droplets moving them around and making different sizes before he pushed them out to connect to the walls and ceiling without touching the wallpaper

Harley let out an impressive whistle.“Damn dat looks like de real deal kiddo.”

“I think I could only do that cause I ate so much. That was a lot of energy use.”

Harley patted him roughly on the back. “It looks like de real deal kiddo. Yuh with me? What's next, or what?”

Danny dug out his plastic stars. Handing a. Pack to Harley. “Biggest droplets get stars.”

“Yuh got de ceilin'.” She said ripping the bag sending pieces flying. She grabbed a handful and started sticking them to wet paint. Danny did the same floating up to do the ceiling. The last step was getting Danny's door and his curtains. “So kiddo have yuh thought about a new altuh ego, or what?”

“I was kind of thinking about matching Selina's, but not sure how she would feel about it.”

“She would love it! Okay? Yuh gonna be a catboy, or what? Kitten, or what? Feral, or what?” Harley bounced excitedly. Fists pumping up and down at the elbows.

“Uh, was thinking maybe schrodinger. Like Schrodinger's cat, cause I'm Schrodinger's boy. It was a joke between my friends. “

Harley stared at him for a full minute before her face split into a wide grin. “OH my gawd dat is brilliant kiddo. Right?” She smacked him on the back again. “That's such a nerdy name. Yuh with me? I love it. Yuh with me? Costume, what cha tinkin'?”

“Selina said she'd get me a mask. My old hero look was just my ghost form, so I didn't use one. And we got some boots. But I am thinking of building everyone some coms and maybe putting them in some car ears. And for the costume.” Danny rubbed the back of his head. “I thought they make a black cat superhero costume for the mass market. Cat noir from miraculous ladybug. And I thought it'd be funny to just wear that.”

Harley cackled.“Dat is great. It would make it hard tuh trace too. Right? Not much paddin' though. Right?”

“Not like much outside ecto-weapons can hurt me.” Danny shrugged. “Be easy and cheap to replace too.”

“It would make people quesshun if yuh are serious or not too. Right?”

“I mean I'm never serious.” Danny said with a laugh.

“I'm gonna orduh a bunch online. Yuh with me? When yuh get de coms done. Right? Me and yuh are gonna go out togethuh first fawh Schrodinger's debut out of de box.”

“OK, that sounds fun.”

Chapter Text

“So why are we headed this way?”

“I got a lettuh from an old buddy fawh a hangout. Yuh got me so fahr? I figured yuh could meet some mawh of de gang around here.” (I got a letter from an old buddy for a hang out. I figured you could meet some of the old gang around here.) Harley said, leading Danny through a section of amusement mile. More of a warehouse area attached for storage and deliveries. Which was good because Danny had punched out a poster with a clown on it that had waved in the wind when they came through the main area. Kid was a little jumpy. Harley shoved open the door she was told to, had Danny closed on her tail in his schrodinger outfit. “Hey dere eddie! Okay? De party princess has arrived wit' huh new handbag pet.” (hey there Eddie. the party princess has arrived with a new hand bag pet.) She wrapped an arm around Danny leading him deeper in the dark building.

“I’m a cat not a chiwawa.” Danny pouted.

“I mean one of those cat bubble bags. Ya' dig? It wawhks. Don’t ruin my stick kid.” (I mean on of those cat bubble bags ya know? it works. don't ruin my stick kid.) they both turned their heads at the sound of the door slamming shut behind them. Danny picks up the sound of a lock engaging.

“Well hello there harley! Thank you for answering my summons. How professional of you.” Danny tilted his head as he heard computer keys being clicked. “Well now why won’t these damn camera’s work!”

“Uh my bad.” Danny said while pulling back his powers a bit.

“Oh that is better thank you. But who are you?” the Riddler asked. As the lights came on in the area they were in. He caught a good shot of Harley but the person was a bit of a color blob. And they were tiny.

“I’m Schrodinger.” Danny waved, unsure where the camera was.

“Dis is catwoman’s little crotch goblin. Right?” (this is catwoman's little crotch gobling.) Harley said, hugging the kid to her. “Dis is his first little outin' in gotham. Yuh got me so fahr? We’re bondin'.”(this is his first little outing in Gotham. we're bonding.)

“Oh how terrible for you. But that does shed some light now.” he turned up the brightness. “I heard a terrible rumor Harley. That you and the sirens have gone legit? Playing hero with the bats even.”

“I wouldn’t say legit! Ain’t no one getting a paycheck around here. And not so sure how our deal with the batsy is gonna be going. We’ve found out he’s been a bit of a disappointment lately. Needs to clean up his act before he gets any more help out of us.” Harley said as Danny just watched her attentively.

“Well that is a pleasant note. However, speaking of disappointment, the fact you ladies worked with them at all. Ugh, I thought you were better than that. But then again, you can be a bit fickle. But I do have a solution! I do believe you just need a little chemical push in the right direction. Maybe some reminders of the fun you had in crime!” there was a pause. “I wasn’t expecting you to have a guest, but no matter. The more the merrier right? You and Joker wanted a happy crime family at some point I think right?”

“Eddie, yuh know bettuh than tuh tawhk about Mr. J around me. Okay?” (Eddie you know better than to talk about Mr. J around me.) Harley sing songs. Though she was smiling, Danny could feel her bubbling anger.

“Come now Harley, I'm not pushing you towards that madman again, but I am pushing buttons.” A spot light in green with a question mark shined on a door. “So let's start our game shall we, you beat my escape room maze down memory lane before the timer runs out.” A countdown clock lit up above the door next. “And I will concede that you are capable of handling your own life choices. But if you fail, well I do hope this gaseous concoction will help sort you back to your once true self. And look, you can steal Selina’s sidekick too.”

“Eddie,” Harley sounded exasperated. ”If yuh just wanted someone tuh annoy de bat fawh yuh fawh a distracshun yuh know yuh could just ask right, or what?” (if you just wanted someone to annoy the bat for ya for a distraction you know you could just ask right?)

“Where's the fun in that?” Riddler asked, a bit offended.

“Um excuse me Mr. Eddie?” Danny had his hand raised like in school.

“It's Riddler kid, and you don't need to raise your hand. Does this look like a school?”

“Sometimes, but you said this is an escape room, and your name, does that mean there will be riddles involved? And are there any clowns?” Danny asked curiously.

“Of course it will have riddles! And section 7 has some clown set dressing. Minimal why?”

“Kids got a mild phobia, Don’t be rude Eddie.” Harley sassed.

“Am I allowed to participate? Like solve them?” Danny asked for clarification.

“If you think you can, sure, it would be rude to bar you when your life's on the line too. I'm not a monster.” Eddie sassed. “Does this child not know rogue etiquette Harley?”

“He's new in town. Cut him some slack. It's his first day out.”

“Well welcome to Gotham kid. Good luck.”

Danny was smiling though practically vibrating. “Sweet! Can we go through now Harley?” Danny asked, giving her the puppy dog eyes.

“You know you don't have a choice right?”

“Of cawhse my little burnt pumpkin.” (of coarse my little burnt pumpkin.) She pinched his cheeks.“Perfect family bondin' wit' aunt Harley's favawhite nephew.” (perfect family bonding with aunt harley's favorite nephew.)

“Yes!” Danny cheered, jumping with his arms thrown up. He lands on his feet and grabs Harley's hand running for the door as she cackled at his excitement. Once they were through he hit the lock and started the timer.

“Either there is something wrong with that child or Luthor is marketing his cloning as unconventional reproduction means to the rogue community.” Riddler mumbled to himself as he cut his Mic and switched to the cameras in his maze.

***********************
Riddler kicked over the chair and knocked the computer mouse off the desk with his cane. They had completed it in record time even with the kid refusing to do room 7 till Harley completed it alone. And then proceeded.

“How!” Riddler yelled, stomping his foot fists clenched at his sides as the two exited his maze.

“That was great Mr. Riddler!” Danny said, bouncing up and down in excitement. Harley cackling at Eddie's put upon face.

“You're like 8! There is no way you had the life experiences to complete some of those riddles!”

“I'm 13, thank you very much.” That had Riddler pause a bit. As he processed that information. Harley put a finger to her lips over Danny's head as she saw his light bulb turn on. She ran a finger across her neck for good measure. “And my grandpa talks to me in mostly convoluted riddles. So I have lots of practice. But it was so fun to do something like this without worrying about injuries or dying or repercussions if I didn't figure out the riddle fast enough. Like this was great practice! Thank you Mr. Riddler!” and for good measure Danny ran up and hugged him.

Riddler had his hands up and out of the grab zone at least. Though he was confused. It was very much a deadly game. What was this kid’s play here? Harley now had a green slightly glowing bat in hand shaking it at him. He patted the kids head which got a creepy approval grin from Harley. “Happy to help kid.”

“Schrodinger!” Danny let go and turned back to Harley who had the bat behind her back. “Yuh wanted a souvenir right, or what?! Go back in and pick somethin' out. Ya' dig? Eddie won’t mind will ya buddy?”(you wanted a souvenir right? go back in and pick something out. Eddie won't mind will ya buddy?)

Danny looked up at Riddler with a too wide of a grin. “Yeah sure, go knock yourself out kid.” Danny ran off towards the maze. And ran through the locked door, before Riddler could unlock it. He stared in shock. “Oh shit.”

“Eddie, I didn’t know we had a problem,” Harley said walking up to him. All smiles. “Since our little kitten enjoyed our little outin'.” she shoved him with her bat, “i won’t break your legs today. Yuh with me? Butcha’re smart aren’t ya eddie, or what?” (but you're smart aren't ya Eddie?" she shoved him again, knocking him back into the desk. “Cawze yuh know i’m de voice of reason among de ladies. Yuh with me?” (cause you know i'm the voice of reason among the ladies right?" she leaned over him into his space. “We are gonna keep dis whole ting tuh ourselves aren’t we, or what?” (we are gonna keep this whole thing to ourselves aren't we?")

“You drive a hard bargain Harley.” she put more pressure on her bat. “But of course of course. No hard feelings let bygones be bygones.”

“See I knew yuh were de smart one. Okay?”(see I knew you were the smart one.) she smiled devilishly with her head tilted before bellowing in a deeper tone. “Schrodinguh time tuh go sweetums!” (Schrodinger time to go sweetums!)

And to Riddler’s surprise, out popped the child from a wall, holding a large plastic flower that resembles one of ivy’s in a cartoonish manner. “I’m ready!” he held up his trophy with glee. “Thanks again Mr. Riddler.”

“No problem," he said with a wave, as the two left the warehouse.

Chapter Text

"HI there fellow not so dead dude?"

"Jesus fucking christ!" Jason jumped back with his gun drawn and pointed at the talking head of a masked brat sticking out the ground. His eyes bugged out under his helmet. As the obviously meta kid pulled himself out of the ground into the back alley next to red hood and his bike he was attempting to collect. It reminded Jason a little too much of a zombie crawling out of its grave. He suppressed the urge to shiver, keeping his gun trained on the kid. More for intimidation. He wasn't going to shoot a kid.

The kid smiled a little too wide at him before sticking out his hand towards red hood. "Names actually schrodinger. Nice to meet ya." He sheepishly took his hand back rubbing the back of his neck when red hood made no move to take the hand offered.

Hood felt the pit start to roll in his veins. He made sure to click the safety on his gun. He didn't feel the boiling rage just yet but he didn't want to risk this kid gambling how long he could hold the pit back. “Get the fuck out of here kid!” red hood growled. The kid's smile became strained as he put his hands up between them in a placating gesture and the pit squirmed a bit more. Confusing Jason that his green tinged vision wasn’t being met by rage. He was having trouble pinpointing what he was even feeling from the pit.

“I actually, um can’t.” the kid said sheepishly ducking his head to look up at hood apologetically. Completely ignoring the gun pointed at him. “So like I just moved here recently, with my new mom? Original mom? And her… I don't know what they all are exactly right now, but that doesn’t really matter. The point is. They live here in your haunt. So I kinda have to too. And I know this is like really out of order. I swear if I had like notice or something I would have come to you right away to ask permission to stay in your haunt. Thanks for not just attacking me outright for trespass right away. Not gonna lie, I was expecting a ghost. I mean you know like a full ghost. But this is even cooler! Who knew the red hood was a halfa too! I didn’t even know there were halfa’s besides the ones i know!”

“Shut the fuck up kid!” Hood stomped up to the kid's gun still aimed at him. That finally seemed to catch his attention, looking concerned and taking a few steps back hands up by his head palms out. “Do you have a death wish or something?”

Kid tilted his head to the side. “Is that a trick question or a joke? It’s hard to tell with the helmet." Jason could now feel his annoyance, though the rage under it was held back by something that he was thinking wasn’t him from once. “Look mr. red hood sir. I swear I didn't come here to fight you for your haunt. I really don’t want to fight you like at all. I mean you’re the red hood! You are like legendary in the gz! But I didn't realize you were a ghost adjacent. Like you were one of my favorite heroes before. Top 10 ten no lie. But now def number 2 favorite. Like I am so excited to meet you. Even if you weren’t who I was expecting to find, I just want your permission to stay in your haunt. I mean if I have to fight you, I will. But I think my mom would be pretty upset. And I'd really hate to have to kick my now second favorite hero's ass. But mom already has had to change her life so much because of me. I don’t want to have to make her move too. That’s really not fair. And…"

“Shut the fuck up kid!” he waved the gun around to draw the kids eye to it and didn’t stop till he could see the kid looking at it. “Does this mean nothing to you?”

“Not really? It’s a normal gun… not like you can shoot me unless I let you?” he answered confused.

“Let me?! Like you think you can kick my ass? You, some scrawny little 8 year old thinks he can take me the mother fucking red hood in a fight? Are you stupid or delusional?”

The kid hoovered in the air to be eye level with hood as he squawked indignantly, arms crossed around his chest. “I’m 13 thank you very much!” Then he made a point to look hood up and down. “I could totally take you. Especially with all that gross low grade ectoplasma in you.” he threw his hands down at his sides. “Ugh i know you're annoyed at me ok. And like really ragey. Your whole haunt just reeks of rage ok, but i didn’t intrude on purpose! I don’t want to fight. It will stress my mom out if she knows I went and got into a fight my first few weeks here. With red hood no less.'' Jason wasn’t 100% on it but he thinks the kid just rolled his eyes at him. “Can we please just have a truce and an agreement right now for me to stay?” kid made a pouty face cupping his hands together in a pleading gesture floating closer to red hood completely ignoring the gun still pointed at him. To more annoyance from hood.

But then Jason finally figured out what he was feeling from the pit and it wasn’t his emotions or the pit normal rage. It was almost apologetic, pleading, sad… that was the kid’s emotions. And they were crawling up through the pit. Jason finally lowered his gun. “How are you doing that?”

“Doing what?” the kid asked with another held tilt. Reminding hood of a puppy. Despite the obvious cat ears sticking out of his black hair.

“I can feel your emotions, through the pit or over the pit. Pretty sure it’s the only reason you don’t have a bullet in your head right now.”

“What’s a pit?” the kid asked confused then looked at jason’s chest lowering himself to hover an inch or 2 lower than he had been. More chin height now. The kid scrunched up his nose. Before looking back at Jason's face. “Are you calling your core a pit? And of course you can feel my emotions. I’m projecting them to you. It’s normal ghost speak, like you are projecting your very unhappy ones to me. Do you like not know you are doing that? Or wha…” the kids eyes went wide even with the mask “holy ancients do you not know?!” The kid grabbed his head and shot up into red hoods face, his knees tucked to his chest. “this is bad, so bad. How do you tell someone they’re half dead? I can’t teach someone how to ghost, I barely know how to ghost. I can’t even get in touch with anybody in the zone or back home to get to someone who could. WHAT IF THE GIW SHOWS UP HERE?!”

Panic. That was what Jason was feeling now from the kid. A Lot of worry and panic. Along with the completely incomprehensible jumble spilling out of him. “hey , hey calm down kid.” hood reach out and grabbed the kid by the shoulder while holstering his gun to grab the other shoulder and pull the kid down lower. As he kept literally rising with his panic over jason’s head. “You are saying a lot of things I do not understand. I’m not sure what you think is going on here. But i am not a ghost.” jason took one of the kids hands and put it over his chest above his heart. Hoping the kid can feel it over the body armor. “Feel that. I’m definitely still ticking at the moment.”

The kid looked at his hand on the vigilantes chest and then moved it a few inches over and made eye contact with his helmet as he took hood’s other hand and placed it over his own heart in his chest. “Don't freak out.” was the only warning the kid gave before a bright light burst out from the kid's nearly blinding hood if it hadn’t triggered the adjustments on his helmet lens. And then hood froze before his vision could even refocus on the kid. The kids heart stopped. His chest wasn’t moving at all. He snapped to look at the kids face. His hair and outfit now white. Eyes glowing and all to recognize shade of green even through the mask. “See ghost. Dead now." The flash went again. And hood wasted no time refocusing his eyes himself breathing again he hadn’t even known he had stopped. A black haired kid, in a black cat costume back in front of him again. “And sorta mostly alive now.” the kid paused before speaking slowly. “Like you.” the kid then cringed. “This is gonna feel weird, sorry.”

And Jason could feel the apology in his own chest. Bulldozing over the pit, way stronger than any emotion he had felt before. It felt as strong as the rage he was so used to fighting down. And then Jason didn’t know what he was feeling as the kid pushed his hand into Jason's chest and a light burst came from inside his chest. Jason gasped his knees nearly giving out if the kid hadn’t pushed Jason up by the shoulder with his other hand. Jason could feel his vision burn an even hotter green glow lighting the kids face in front of him even through the helmet. Took Jason a minute to steady himself on his feet, but as soon as he was, the kid grabbed Jason's hand and shoved it against his own chest. And Jason froze. His heart wasn’t beating and nor was he breathing, but he didn’t feel pain or the burn of a lack of oxygen. He looked down at his own chest, of the kid's hand still in his chest even as the kid looked up at him. The kid was panting now though heavily. Taking deep breaths like he was trying to get something down, no, keep something down. Shit kid was gonna puke.

The kid yanked his hand from Jason's chest. And stepped back kealing over and puking right at Jason's feet. As soon as the kid's hand was gone, the green in his eyes retreated, so did the pit simmering away in his chest, so gently, it took Jason a minute to tell it was still there. Jason’s heart beat picked back up like it never stopped, and his lung’s filled without a strain or gasp. Jason took a minute to process what the hell just happened to him. No what the kid had done to him. When he looked at the state of the kid at his feet, puking up lazarus water. The weird little cat boy kid looked up at him with a cough, lazarus water still dripping down his chin. “Ok, so not, “ he choked or coughed again to clear his throat, “weak ecto. More like contaminated or poisoned ecto. In you.” kid went into another coughing fit before puking up even more lazarus water. Jason grabbed him before he fell forward into his own mess as he collapsed. “that’s , that’s not good for you.” the kid slurred into another coughing fit.

“The hell did you do now kid?! Not good for me? You are the one who is puking his guts out of lazarus water?!” hood panicked. Though it sounded way more angry through his helmet modulator.

“Sli’ll be ok.” the kid slurred. “Evenually.” he pushed hood back before retching up again. More green dribbling out. “Was lazus water?”

“The shit running down your face kid!” Hood pulled sample collection pad from his belt to wipe off the kids face, tucking it away for later.

“Mm, so confused.” the kid mumbled slumping against the vigilantes arm holding him up. Jason took care to maneuver the meta kid away from his own sick and lean into his own side far away from the puddle of lazarus water.

“You and me both kid.” Jason huffed.

“Dink need all my mom.” the kid slurred into Jason's elbow.

Hood let out a bark of a laugh. “Yeah i think that’d be a good call. But maybe a text. Not sure your gonna come through eloquently on the phone.” however hood grew silent again at the shock of the kid reaching into his own leg to pull out a cellphone. Flipping it open to text. His eyes widened at the contact name the kid pulled up to text. Selina’s name is easily read over the kids head. And if the black kitty boy costume didn’t just tell him who exactly that was. He patted selina’s kid arm, cause that was who had their chin tucked over his arm and leant into his side. as he texted that he might have gotten over his head, and might have done something without having thought it through first, and he might need a pick up. “Might have a lot huh kid?” the kid whined rolling his head to make eye contact with red hood with a little pout on his lips.

“I don’t know where we are to tell her where to find me.” The kid was talking more clearly now. But the arm wrapped around his stomach probably meant he still wasn’t feeling great.

Hood saw the where are you response from Selina and asked if he was alright and somewhere safe. “Give me your phone, kid.” Hood was already pulling it away from the kid's hand before he finished his demand. Hitting the dial button as he brought it up to his helmet. Putting it on speaker phone. It only rang once.

“Danny, where are you? Are you ok? What happened?” Selina fired off immediately. Sounding exactly like a worried mother.

“You still at the place you were sharing with Ivy and harley?” Hood asked, pulling the kid up with him off the alley ground. Kid was light enough he got him up one handed and up on his hip. Despite Danny's whine. The kid squeezed his arms tight as he latched onto hood. Hood could feel the kids worry and nausea through the pit again so he stilled once he was up till the feeling faded.
“Hood? Oh my god! Where is he hood? If you…”

“Calm down, kids right here with me. Reassure your mother, kid." Hood put the phone closer to Danny's face resting on his shoulder now.

“Hi. I made 2 messes." Danny said to the phone.

“He's fine. He puked at my feet after a very long and confusing series of events, Selina. Verify your location and I'll bring him straight home to you." Jason ignored the kid's snort. "Kids in a kitty boy costume. So have the roof access open if you are still where I think you are." Jason headed towards his bike, setting the kid in front of him. Not trusting him to hold on. Kid felt like he was gonna pass out. Tired and sick being the new feeling over top of the pit. He shoved his far too big bike helmet over top of the kids head. Ignoring his whine. “Does that work?”

“Are you alone?” Selina asked, her voice cold. “Is his mask on?”

Jason paused just a second at the questions, grinding his jaw before answering. “No bats or birds in the alley. Kids covered. Lines closed”

“You have 7 minutes to get here. Leave your helmet on the roof.” with that the line clicks closed. The unspoken threat loud in his ears. And jason tucked the phone into one of pockets before starting up the bike. The kids discomfort rising in the pit. Jason rubbed danny’s back gently before taking off in the direction of the siren’s place. He stowed his bike just a bit away. As soon as he had the helmet off Danny's head the kid had puked again off the side of his bike. At Least he didn’t hit the bike. He hefted the kid back onto his hip, before grappling the rest of the way to Selina's rooftop. All three women lay in wait for him. Armed even.

Danny rolled his head over to look at Selina. Jason could feel the kids worry, and sorry build at the quiet sight of her. “Sorry, m messed up.” Danny said to Selina as she walked up to the helmeted vigilante with confidence. Her dark glare at hood went soft the moment she made eye contact with danny.

“It’s ok kitten.” Selina cooed at the boy petting his hair. “We’ll take care of it. Don’t you worry. Lets get you inside, cleaned up and into bed. We can discuss it in the morning. After you’re feeling better." Selina turned that dark glare on hood daring him to counter her. Instead she was surprised as he reached up and took off his helmet leaving him in just the domino mask he wore underneath. Not that it did anything. All 3 women already knew who he was.

“I’ll carry him. Lead the way.” he tossed his helmet towards ivy, one of her plant vines crawling out the open greenhouse door grabbing it before setting it on the roof outside the green house. Selina turned on her heels walking past the vines into the greenhouse towards the door that led to the stairs that entered their home from the roof access. Hood followed, ignoring the writhing plants around him. And Harley behind him with her baseball bat carried in front of her with 2 hands. Ivy hot on her heels. Jason brought his free hand up to rub the kid’s back. The worry, and apologetic feelings still radiating through the pit from the kid. Jason took care in his steps, leaning on his training so not to set off the kids nausea with any jostling.

“ ‘m sorry.” kid mumbled again into hood’s shoulder.

“None of that now squirt!” Harley said cheerily. “What’s got you feeling so bad though? Ya weren’t sick when you left to go find your ghosty.”

“Found m ghosty.” Danny mumbled. Looking over hood’s shoulder. “Hoo, m ghost. He ick, cough it.”

Harley ruffled the kids' hair. “Ya sound ready to pass out trouble maker.” she smiled at him. “Will one of those ecto coolers help or do ya need the glow stick?” Harley asked more softly.

“Ooler.” danny got out smacking hood in the face, in an attempt to pat him.

Hood huffed and tried to duck his head without moving his torso. “Knock that shit off.” hood gruffed.

“Ood eeds one two.” danny spoke out. Hood feeling playful come up through the emotions.

“I’ll get them. Harl, why don’t you help hood get Danny in bed.”

“I’ll get a washcloth and meet you there.” Selina said as they walked down the hall to the bedrooms. Selina opened a door covered in space and ghost themed stickers leading the group through, while Ivy headed down a floor to the living room and kitchen area.

Selina made her way into the in suite bathroom, while Harley pulled back the kids bedding and pointed at it with her bat, in case hood didn’t know where he was supposed to go. Hood carefully set the boy onto the bed. And went to start taking of his boots when they just fell off onto the floor with the kids' socks. His mask and cat ears falling off next. “Just phase ya pants through the bed kiddo. We’ll clean it up tomorrow.” Harley told him dragging over a bucket from somewhere. The kid did just that, rubbing his face with a fist leaving him in just a shirt and boxers.

Danny dropped his fist as he and hood just stared at each other. Jason knew the face he was looking at. Had seen it all over the mansion when he was living there as robin. He had connected the dots already but there was no gaslighting himself into a different conclusion with the face blinking sleepily up at him. The boy in front of him fisted at his bed sheets, more nervous and apologies coming up to jason. Kid seemed more awake though. “Can… can we talk ‘morrow. I’ll try to explain…” the kid gestured to all of jason. “All that. But I'm dead tired right now.”

Jason huffed out a breath in the kids face. “Did you just pun? To my face?” he got a sleepy cocked grin before a wash cloth covered his face and a hand cupped the back of his head. Wiping firmly despite the protests.

“Sseeeeeellllinaaaaa.” the boy whined. Jason lifted a brow at the name choice after their earlier conversation.

“Hush. you’re not going to bed with sick on your face. It’ll be in your hair or worse.” Selina gently scolded. Ivy’s hand popped into view as soon as the cloth pulled away, with a little glowing green capri sun pack. Bendy straw in place. “Drink that, then go to sleep. We will talk in the morning.” She brushed back Danny's bangs and put a kiss to his head. “Thank you for calling for help kitten. I'm so happy you did. You’re not in trouble. I just want to know what happens when you wake up ok. You did good." Jason blinked as the boy ducked his head, a blush coloring his cheeks. Popping the straw in his mouth and eagerly sucking down the contents that Jason was going to ignore that looked no different than what he had just puked up. With his head turned away in embarrassment. Which Jason could feel that emotion swirling besides his own conflicted emotions. Which yeah probably the kid could feel and why he was still apologizing.

“chop , chop, stray catcher.” Harley said tapping the boy's legs with her bat and taking the pouch from him that was empty. A plant near the window stretched out and helped lower the kid down to his pillows. Ivy pulled the comforter over him as Selina pulled hood away from Danny's bed side. Bud and lou climbed onto the bed with the kid. Hood didn’t even notice the hyena’s coming in. He needed to get his head on straight quickly. If the nails digging into his jacket were any indication. Selina dragged hood out of the room while Ivy and Harley finished getting the kid down. Not that hard, since his eyes were closing as soon as his head hit the pillow.

“Selina…” Hood stopped talking as he watched Selina angrily sign to him.

*do not speak. He has enhanced hearing. Like you.* “We are going downstairs. We’ll get you one of those juice boxes like Danny said and have a little chat, in the sitting room." Selina spoke carefully. Catching Harley and Ivy's eye as they stepped out of Danny's room and shut the door. Selina dragged him with the other girls down past the living level of their place down to the basement. Jason tensing up at the door. Harley poked him in the back with her bat in warning.

“Uh, uh, little bat.” Harley singsonged before her voice got dark. “Go in and sit down. We ain’t waking the kid.” Ivy stood behind her arms crossed holding another glowing capri sun pack.

Hood allowed Harley to shove him through the reinforced and well insulated door. The rest of the room was probably also sound proofed. He ignored all the old staining around the room and sat down none to gently into the sturdy metal chair in the middle of the room. Stained with things Jason was going to also ignore. And maybe burn these pants later. He also didn’t fight when Selina took his guns off him, setting them on a nearby table. He still had the knife in his boot though. He faced the closed door all 3 women stood in front of. Looking none too happy. Not even a grin on harley. Damn he was not going to have a good time.

“Drink this.” Ivy said, passing the pouch to hood.

Jason looked at it. And stuck it in his outer jacket pocket. “Don’t think so right now, maybe later. After our chat.”

“Little shit’s young. But he’s smart and also the expert here on ghosties jason." Harley said, leaning on her bat. “Baby cat says you should drink that. Then you probably should. We don’t exactly have a lot of those right now. And he knows they are for emergencies.”

Hood ignored the comment and just met Selina's harsh stare with his own. “Does he know?” Jason asked, ignoring the other women. This was between him and Selina.

“No. and he isn’t going to for a while if we can help it.” Selina answered without moving. Cocking a brow at him in return in challenge.

“You explain to me why, and how you hid a kid from B for 13 fucking years, and maybe i keep my mouth shut. To the family.” Jason shot back at her arms crossed in defiance. He didn’t move a muscle as she stalked towards him.

“You aren’t telling any of the bats or birds no matter what I do or do not tell you!” she hissed at him angrily, hands in front of her in an almost claw like position. “I did everything I could to keep him safe, and it wasn’t enough, I'm not letting Bruce muck it up even and ruin whatever chance Danny has left at a living life he wants.”

“Half life.” Harley piped in drawing the two’s attention. She just shrugged. “Somebody should stand in for the kid.” she chirped happily. Ivy just shot her girlfriend with an unamused side eye.

“I may like you jason. But I will do whatever I have to protect danny." Selina said to him. “Even if I have to get rid of you to do it.”

That had Jason perking up in his chair. “Now you are speaking my language.” he put his hands on his knees as he leaned forward. “I’m not going to begrudge a mom protecting her kid. But I didn't take you for a talia copycat.”

Jason got his arm up to take the hit from her whip instead of his head. “Don’t you ever compare me to that bitch! I didn’t torture and brainwash my son. And keeping him away from Bruce didn't hurt him." Selina spat at him. Yanking on the whip to pull down his arm. “I didn’t even know who his father was under the cowl. I wasn’t just going to hand my baby over to Batman because of rooftop thirst. There were too many dangers from my work in gotham. Keeping him wasn’t an option.”

“Where’s my baby brother been, Selina?” Jason asked, ignoring her outburst.

“I didn’t put him in the system if that’s what concerns you.” she loosened her whip and Jason slid it off rubbing his arm. “I sent him to be with some of my distant family. Thought he would be safe with them.” she averted her eyes. “I was wrong. My cousin messaged me a few weeks ago. Told me Danny wasn’t safe with them anymore. His wife, the only mother Danny had ever known, was a danger to him. Not only her but an entire government agency. Danny needed out and a safe place to hide. To grow up.”

“What’s this agency? If an underground government agency is going after meta kids…"Jason was cut off.

“Danny isn’t a meta jason.” Ivy cut him off.

“Yeah he’s just half dead.” Harley chipped in happily.

“That sounds ridiculous, even for you harley.” Jason snapped at her unamused. Ignoring the pain he felt at the memory of the kids still chest in the alley. Harley just shrugged in response.

“It’s true. Same with you.” ivy cut in. “We have files from his adoptive parents. His dad snuck us everything he could with no notice. I agree with Danny, the papers are mostly trash science even if the kiddo hadn’t told us that, you can tell from just reading them.”

“I’m not…”

“You are. If he says you are ghostly like him. Then you are. He knows what he’s talking about. He’s had to live with it for 2 years already jason. In hiding while his own parents tried to kill him or worse.” Ivy stated a matter of factly to him. “Do not insult my nephew’s intelligence.”

“He snuck up on red hood in a dark back alley for a chat with me pointing guns at him.” Jason stated.

“Kiddos book smart, not street smart. Cut him some slack.” Harley threw out with a flourishing hand. Jason gave her a deadpan look.

“He died, jason. My son has died once already, when I thought he was safe." Selina said to him. “I’m not risking the next time being permanent. Bruce gets wind of him, that poor kid is going to get plastered everywhere, screw nightlife shit. The press, the news he’ll be found and taken before we can blink.”

“What happened?” Jason growled at her.

“We kinda only got sparknotes and little tidbits baby boo drops at random that we are making note of.” Harley said “kinda got to build a picture.” she waved her hand and bar in an arch away from her body. “With a puzzle that’s been thrown at a wall.”

“Danny doesn’t have much faith in adults. Last time he trusted adults who were supposed to love him, and revealed a good portion of the truth about himself, one of them turned on him, and the other spilled his secrets to a completely unknown stranger before shipping him off with them with his entire reality flipped upside down.'' Selina said harshly. “I’m not going to start dumping all his history for you. We are still trying to build his trust and confidence.”

“He likes to drop some doozies on us as tests.” Harley shrugged off. “He’s gonna run, hoodie, first time we spook the spook.”

“And then he risks getting picked up by the government for experimentation.” Ivy finished.

“You know not wanting B to know you hid a kid from him, is one thing, the press thing, i get that too, but why not go to him for help with that?” Jason threw his arm out. “The bats, birds, fuck the league, they aren’t going to stand by and let that shit happen. They can help. I’m not bruces biggest fan, but I can admit he’s at least able to handle that kind of shit.”

“kid ‘s admit against the league or batsy. Baby boo got pretty scared when we brought it up.”

“That’s a mild way of putting it.” ivy intoned. “Danny finds out if the league or bat get any information from us, he’s gone.” she fluttered her hand in the air. “We had to swear to not bring it to them to get Danny to even consider staying with us. He was ready to bolt at the mere suggestion.”

“My kitten and his friends, and he believes more people in his hometown, he knows other kids did for sure and a teacher. But he believes other adults tried to make contact with the league as well.” Selina finished. “They were ignored. From my cousin's information. They ignored some very big, should have been on their radar to begin with. There is not any way they wouldn’t know about some of these incidents. They were league level threats. But they were responded to when they called for help. Danny and his little friends have been dealing with everything on their own for 2 years. Untrained tweens!”

Ivy put a hand on Selina's shoulder, in support, before addressing Jason where he sat dumbfounded at that. “Our little sweetheart believes the league either doesn’t care about what has been happening in his hometown or sanctions it.” she sighed. “And i… i agree with his assessment.'' Ivy's face lost the stoic look she had up till now only shown jason. Now she just looked sad. “There are very public laws you can find with simple google searches of keywords. These laws are heinous with just a simple read through. Not twisting of words. They are explicit in their legal consent to cause extreme harm and genocide against people like you and danny.”

Jason shoved his face into his hands, rubbing it roughly. Taking a minute to just breathe and take in all this new information. Which was sounding like a very small tip of an iceberg thing and this rabbit hole was gonna be very dark and bleak and never ending. “Ok, so nobody from the league got it. New plan, i’m in,” he didn’t let the women interrupt waving his hand in a circle in front of him finger pointed down. “In all of this. I’m going to have a relationship with my baby brother. No matter how that relationship looks, I'm here. Get me whatever you can on what’s going on, so we can work together. We all need to be on the same page for that. Once we have a game plan, I can bring in my friends. The outlaws. We have some experience burning down illegal government science labs and child trafficking rings. What's a few legal ones for family?”

“What about the bats?” Selina asked, eyes boring into him.

“I’ll help you keep him under wraps as long as we can. I can be the man on the inside if they get a whiff. And divert them. Hopefully that's long enough to get to the bottom of all this and burn whoever those government guys are to the ground.”

“The guys in white.” Harley says casually.

“What?”

“That’s what they are called. The guys in white. Baby boo calls them mib rejects.”

“The official name is ghost investigation ward. But they dress in all white suits. So the kids dubbed them the guys in white.”

Jason groaned rolling his head, of all the dumb shit, “GIW. Danny said that to me in the alley.” he nodded at the ladies. “We take them down. Can I have my shit back now please? I need to go home and sleep enough to process. I can be back here as Jay tomorrow afternoon.”

Selina tossed Jason's guns at him after a moment. “How about you take the guest room upstairs tonight. Drink your juice box and come down when you are ready.”

“Slumber party!” Harley declared excitedly tossing up her hands and bat. Ivy gave a slight smile to Jason before grabbing her girlfriend's arm and dragging her out the door they came in.

“Don’t make me regret this jason.” Selina said her parting words before heading up herself. Not waiting for Jason to follow. He knew his way around their place.

Chapter Text

(the breakdown of the siren’s place. The ladies place is an old apartment complex full of studio apartments. They did some remodeling so each apartment on the bedroom floor is now a bedroom. Ripping out the kitchens to make nice size bathrooms. And bathrooms to make nice size closets. Harley and Ivy have their own rooms but often sleep in ivy’s. The top floor is their work spaces, from arts and crafts, building, labs and their equipment, and a gym. The roof holds ivy’s greenhouse and a little dining area. You have to go through the greenhouse to get to the stairway door from there. Best protection from intruders. The bottom floor has been turned into the living room, laundry room, kitchen and dining room. Mostly open floor plan. The basement is a quiet room. Sound proof reinforced. There's a secret exit into the Gotham sewers from the room. Can be used as a panic room. It’s the only room Danny is told he’s not allowed in.)

“Uh, why does Red Hood look like he’s having a mental breakdown at the dinner table?” Danny asked, pulling the milk from the fridge by hand while summoning a bowl and the box of cereal to him from the cabinet.

“You said he was your ghost, you were looking for a sweetheart. He seemed clueless about what that meant. Unsurprisingly, we’ve not heard anything about red hood being a meta or meta like and we’ve known him for a while." Ivy answered with her cup of tea cupped close to her face.

“Pammy gave him your old parents research and all the files and copies of the ghostbuster laws.'' Harley said, sliding up next to Danny across the floor in her socks. She would have knocked him over if he hadn’t phased while laughing, letting her stop on the other side of him in front of the fridge to get the milk back out. He passed Harley her own bowl and spoon with his powers.

Hood looked up from the computer to watch the two interact. “Sorry buddy, welcome to my existence is illegal club.'' Danny cheered him with his spoon and the cereal box with his powers.

“Do you always just use your powers so casually?” Hood asked the kid as Selina came in with bud and lou, putting down their dishes for them.

Danny shrugged in response. “They said they don’t mind, and I don't have to worry about triggering a bunch of home security weapons with my powers here like back home. Makes it easier for my powers to not go haywire from disuse. Since I'm not allowed to use them anywhere else.”

“I’m sorry, did you just say your home security would attack you?” Hood asked. Danny just shrugged at him taking another bite of his cereal. He tucked his legs up floating in the criss cross position. Selina still ruffled his hair.

“For safety, my kitten is only allowed to use a few claws when he goes out to play as schrodinger.”

Danny laughed, floating out of her reach and over the center island to the table with pam and hood.

“Is whatever you did to me last night gonna give me powers?” Hood asked, turning back to the documents in front of him. It was a lot. The ladies weren’t joking about league level threats. “Are you ok from whatever you did to me too?”

“No, you always had powers. I just don’t think your ecto was well enough to use them. Or atleast the showy ones. Boosted your healing and senses ok i think. And I'm fine now. I just needed to get your bad ecto. And replace it. Your core latched on and traded a lot more than I was prepared for." Danny took a few more bites of his breakfast. “I’ve actually never encountered ecto like that before.'' Danny scrunched up his nose at the memory. “I hope the GIW don’t ever find anything like that. It literally felt like the poison my uncle dosed me with.”

“I’m sorry your uncle what?” the four adults asked. But Danny waved them off. Jason looked at the cringing and exasperated women, throwing an arm out towards the kid like, are we just going to ignore that?

“But yeah if you had the ecto-cooler last night, that should jump start your core, and you should be able to use your powers.'' Danny winced as he took a few more bites. “Maybe don’t make any plans for a while. When I first got my powers I'd phase my pants off alot, and got really klutzy from random phasing occurrences. I got banned from using most equipment in science class cause of it.”

“How come ya spilling all the tea to this lug so easily?” Harley loudly complained with a mouthful of food.

“He’s a halfa like me.” danny answered her, “i would have much preferred having someone calmly explaining what to expect with my powers and changes. Instead of you know stumbling into it, and then having my dad’s college buddy try and pull a darth vader speech in cloud city on me filled with insults. Ghosts are emotional and sometimes violent, but most aren’t driven to end other ghosts. And i mean even if he was, not like i couldn’t handle it.”

“This bullshit again! You can not take me in a fight, pipsqueak.”

Danny gave him a taunting smile, and flashed his eyes at him. Jason’s eyes responded in kind. “Wanna find out?”

“No fighting in the house. Or in public view.” Selina cut in. Danny gave her a nod. Jason huffed at her going back over the files. He needed to keep tracking breaks to keep the pit from rearing its ugly head, but it seemed easier than before. But he still felt his rage bubbling in his chest, it just didn’t feel as all consuming.

“I’ve told you guys things. You’re actually way easier to talk to than any adult back home. I… the casual acceptance of like.'' Danny gestured his spoon at himself. “has been the best. It's freeing to not feel like I'm waiting to be attacked at every moment of existence by those around me. And get to just be.'' Danny said with a blush. Going back to his breakfast using his powers to give himself a refill. “Everything is alot for all at once though.”

Ivy patted the boy's hand on his bowl. “Ignore her. The shrink in her just can’t help but ask from talking. Take your time, we aren't going anywhere.”

“So, do you want to be called hood when you're not wearing the tin can?” Danny asked before Jason could spiral too much in his anger.

“Jay. for friends and family.” he answered the kid closing the computer. He needed a break. “Talk to me about these powers. I should be expecting to start working. Like a list.”

“That’s kind of hard. Depends on the ghost or halfa. There are the basics though. Invisibility, intangibility, flying, heightened senses, healing, ghost sense. Seeing the dead, Obviously. Ectoblasts. Ghost speak kinda counts. Empath powers. Mostly helps ghosts find emotional food. Ghosts need like 3 things to survive, halfas have 4. But need ectoplasm, emotions, and those are tied to often but separate to a ghosts obsessions. Ghosts need regularly fulfill their obsessions, for like energy. All those count as like food or a diet to various degrees. You can survive on just one, but you won’t be doing great. Halfa’s add in like normal food. But way more calories. Obsessions and stressors can affect what kinds of powers a ghosts get and if they develop a elemental core or not. Stronger ghosts usually have elemental cores.”

Jason ran a hand through his hair. “That’s a lot.”

“Yeah, there’s more but you feel like you're gonna snap if I just info dump on you some more. We can address stuff down the road while I train you my little baby ghost apprentice.” he smiled in a way that showed he knew he hit a nerve.

“I’m older than you. According to this, I've been dead longer than you. You ain’t my senior nothing you cocky little shit.”

“Oh but I have rank, I'm pulling. I’m way stronger than you. But that’s ok. I’d love to have another spunky mentee.”

“I’m gonna find an empty warehouse just to smack that smirk off your face.”

“Looking forward to it.”

“Speaking of spunky mentees…” Selina asked over her cup of tea. “Have you heard from your little sister yet?”

“No. but that’s not strange. Ellie goes off grid a lot. I’m not worried yet. She knows not to go back to amity though. With me just disappearing, tuck will have sent out the safety alerts like we planned. Hopefully jazz could tell him and Sam something so they don’t freak out too badly. Valerie should be able to handle things, even if I couldn't get a message to the zone.”

“I’m not gonna be his mentee.”

“I'm not going to make you be my mentee, I'm not a creepy vampire. But you know where to find me when you need help." Danny answered. "Still happy to kick your ass in an alley."

"Get dressed you smart mouth like shit!" Hood stood up to try and reach across the table at danny. Ivy plant knocking the man's hand away.

Harley cheered,"I'm getting the camera!"

"Somewhere discrete please. We don't want the bats' attention." Selina let out a found sigh.

Chapter Text

"Oooooohhhhh that fix ya did to the camera, squirt! Beautiful, perfectly captured every detail. I bet we could sell this!" Harley held her vintage video camera aloft, shaking it as she looked at the recording. "Next time cage match. Give ya boy the chair and Crack that ugly tin can."

"Delete that shit now Harley or else!And let me out of here you little shit." Hood growled barely wiggling his fingers and toes, from where he was half-inbedded in the concrete floor of one of his nearly empty warehouses. Schrodinger sat cross legged on his chest, hand resting on his fist with a too wide too sharp toothed grin and glowing green eyes alight in mirth. Hood just grew more frustrated and angry at the delight and amusement he could feel rolling over the pit's anger for being put in this situation. It was boiling into rage as the little shit wagged a finger in his face.

"Ah, ah, ah, you didn't say the magic word." The split in the kid's face grew to his ears. "Say uncle, or tap into your powers and get yourself out. You know how it's supposed to feel now. You can figure it out."

"I'm gonna break that finger you wag it in my face again!"

"Hood I will let bud and Lou piss on your head you threaten to harm my kid again." Selina said curtly.

"Ah let him bark." Danny said face never leaves hood’s own. "I can keep swatting his nose till he learns. Didn't even let my claws out. This was nothing." Danny laughed as he felt hood's anger swell again. He patted his face condensendanly. "Come on, your red hood, terror of crime alley. Grab that thing you keep calling a pit with them metaphysical hands of yours. And pull. Feel your anger at your situation and force it to free you."

Hood took a deep breath, his chest raising the kid up. "Or you can tap out. And boast my grand superiority! Say uncle!" Danny fell back giggling from hood , getting his arm free to swing at him taking the hit to roll off the side of hood. Half his chest free before he got stuck again. "OH so close, yet so far. How long till you get the rest of yourself out?"

"Laugh it up! But when I get out of here and get my hands on you. . ."

*********
"Not even one hit with all those fancy moves. I'm pretty disappointed. But congratulations on phasing! Let's get you an ecto cooler."

"Where do kids get all this energy from?" Jason whined winded. But after several hours he wasn't trapped in objects, walls or floors anymore.

"It's called the fountain of youth for a reason." Catwoman purred. The adults followed after Danny as he led them back out of the warehouse now that it was evening.

Chapter Text

“Oh shit don’t tip, don’t tip don’t tip.”

Waylon followed the sound of the voice down the sewer in his territory. He wasn't sure, but it sounded like a kid. He needed to scare them out of the sewers well enough so they never tried to come down again. The sewers of Gotham are no place for children.

Croc made sure to start up his growling before he turned to corner down the pipe, to end on a loud roar once he was at the entrance. To be met with a young boy blinking up at him while trying to float an old bathtub down the sewer overflowing with junk. Kid must be coming from the dump. This line came out right outside of it.

“Uh hi.” the kid waved at him. But as he took a hand off the tub it started to tip again. “Shit.” the kid jumped up to float just above his collection. He seemed to ignore croc completely as he growled. To focused on his things. Leaving Waylon a little confused. His growling petered out.

Waylon sighed. Walking straight up to the kid, who seemed completely unphased by him. “Do you have a death wish kid? Or are you slow?”

The boy snapped his head to him with a grin. “I mean it depends on who asks.” he chuckled. “My name is Danny, what’s yours? I’d offer my hand, but I don't want these components to end up in the sewer water.”

“Are you not afraid of me?” Waylon asked, gesturing to himself.

“No.” the kid tilted his head to the side. “Should I be?”

“Do you not know who i am?” Waylon growled out again. A bit frustrated.

“No, you haven’t given me your name yet?” the kid answered with a wrinkled brow and a pout.

“Killer croc.” he hissed out.

The kid scrunched up his nose. “Your parents actually named you that?”

“No. it’s what people call me.” croc said with a glare which didn’t seem to phase the kid anymore than his growls or looks. He gnashed his teeth at the kid for good measure.

“Do you like being called that?” the kid asked, making concerned eye contact.

“What?” Waylon asked, leaning back a bit. Confused by the kids' attitude towards him.

“I’m not calling you that if you don’t like it.” the kid said with a stern look. “People can be assholes. I’d prefer not to be. So I will call you what you want to be called. Not what people call you.”
Waylon stared down the kid before his shoulders dropped a bit. “Waylon. My name is Waylon jones. Croc doesn’t bother me.”

The boy gave him a solid nod. “Hi waylon.”

“Hi danny.” Waylon said with a deep sigh. “What are you doing?”

The kid sent him a beaming grin. “Trying to collect parts for building some stuff I need.”

“I see. You coming from the dump?”

“Yeah, I found so much good stuff.” Danny said excitedly. “I think I can build 3 condensers with all of this. And 2 belts.”

“Good for you. Where you headed?” Waylon focused on getting the kid out of his sewers as fast as possible.

“Oh crime alley.” ok that might explain more why the kid isn’t spooked by him. Besides being a meta himself.

“Alright. Lets get you and your stuff there.”

Danny gave him a beaming smile, eyes glowing a bit. His teeth looked a bit sharper than normal humans. Huh. maybe even less shocking the meta kid wasn’t afraid of him. “You’ll help me?”

“Sure will. Gotham sewers ain’t a place for kids.” Waylon turned around grabbing the kids makeshift boat with his tail pulling it along.

“Thanks, I mean it’s gross down here. But easier to get around without being seen. And to not have to carry all this. What are you doing down here?” Danny asked.

“I live down here kid.” he ignored the kid scrunching up his nose at that.

“What? Why? It’s so gross down here. That can’t be healthy for you.” Danny's face was twisted in disgust at the thought.

“People get scared at just the sight of me, it’s safer down here for everyone.”

“Why would people be afraid of you?” The kid seemed genuinely confused.

“Incase you’re i don’t know blind or something, I'm a monster kid.” Waylon huffed out.

“You’re not a monster.” Danny said with conviction. “You’re really nice. And helping me after just meeting me.”

“I look like a monster.” Waylon said with a shrug. “People don’t see me as human.”

“You look human to me. People are stupid.” The kid floated over top of Waylon to meet him at eye level. “People say I'm not human. Or even sentient.” Danny said seriously. “Doesn’t make it true.”

Waylon gave out another sigh. “Keep your boat from tipping kiddo.” Waylon kept heading towards crime alley. Taking turns he knew. Till Danny started calling out turns. Waylon sputtered when the kid couldn’t tell him the address he was headed to. Just shrugged with a comment that I can feel which way I need to go. This was definitely a strange little meta kid.

Danny let him know when they reached their stop. Waylon offered to take his supplies to larger repair access nearby that he could fit through while carrying the tub for him.

He wasn’t expecting the kids' response to that though. “No need. Just hold onto the tub please. And don’t freak out.” Waylon can not say he didn’t freak out. As the tiny little barely 70 lb kid grabbed him by the shoulders and flew up holding him, who was holding a couple hundred pounds of broken appliances, through the top of the sewers and up onto the street above. The cold feeling that ran over him as he passed through the freaking ground didn’t help either.

“What the fucking hell kid?” Waylon stared at Danny infront of an apartment. Who just smiled sheepishly at him. Putting a finger to lips in a shushing gesturing and a wink.

“Thanks for helping me. That took like no time at all with your help. You wanna have dinner with us as a thank you?”

Waylon gave Danny the side eye. “Kid, Danny, your parents aren’t going to let me have dinner with you. I should get out of here before they start screaming and calling the cops.

Danny made a disgusted face at that. “Nobody’s gonna call the cops here.”

“Kid…” before Waylon could argue the front door to the building slammed open as Harley seemed to kick it as she marched out with her hyena’s behind her. Waylon watched wide eyed and stunned as Danny's face lit up at the sight of her.

“Aunt Harley, look what I found!” Danny said excitedly, showing off the bathtub in Waylon's hands still like vanna white and one of her letters.

“Aunt harley.” Waylon repeated dumbfounded.

“I see there kiddo. You find yourself a pet of your own to bring home too?” she smiled proudly at danny as her hyenas ran up to danny nipping licking like overgrown dogs.

“That’s not nice.” Danny gave a half-hearted glare. “This is my new friend waylon. He helped me get all this back. Can he stay for dinner?”

“Sure thing kiddo.” Harley shoved her head back in the door and yelled out. “Hey Pam, Selina put on another serving kid size. And we’re gonna stargaze with dinner.” Then she turned back to two infront of her. “Put your shit out back for now. Then take your friend up to the roof. He’s not fitting through the front door.” she winked at waylon. “I’ll be back in a few.” As she waved bye, taking bud and lou for their evening walk. Both running to catch up with her as Danny grabbed Waylon arm to tug him along and show him where to put the tub of parts.

Ivy popped out the front door with a scowl. “Damnit harls can’t you shut a door! Oh sweetheart you’re back." Ivy said all smiles looking at a confused killer croc being dragged by danny.

“Hi aunt pam.” Danny replied cheerily.

“Did you get what you needed?” she asked.

“Yep and a new friend.”

“I see that. We are having vegetarian pasta tonight croc. You could probably use the veggies anyway.” she directed her vines to lower the fire escape ladder. “The fire escape is more reinforced than it looks. And there is a table up top you can use as a seat easily enough. Thank for helping our little one.”

“Uh no problem.” Waylon answered, a bit shell shocked still.

“I’m not that little.” Danny pouted.

“Hurry along. Dinner will be done soon. And you need to come and get the soap from in the house so croc can wash up for dinner too. Only the hose is on the roof.”

“Waylon. His name is waylon." Danny corrected.

“Waylon, do you have a drink preference? We have water, lemonade, tea, and wine, red or white.”

“Uh, the water is fine, ivy. Thanks.”

“See you both soon.” and with that pam went back inside shutting the door behind her. Danny pulled Waylon behind the building where a small shed was propped against the building. Danny opened it so Waylon could set the tub inside. Once it was closed back up Danny tugged waylon to the fire escape. Following along as croc climbed it from the outside like classic donkey kong as Danny informed him.

Once on the roof Danny moved around the furniture so Waylon had a place to sit at the head of their picnic table. Before he phased through the floor to retrieve the hand soap so they could wash up for dinner. It didn’t take him long to come back up with the item and got the hose to help his new friend do just that. By the time they got the hose put up and Danny had brought up all the plates and cups, Selina was coming up carrying a huge roasting pan filled with pasta. Ivy behind her with another. And her vines bring up a pitcher of water and a bottle of wine to be set on the table. Once the pots were down harley could be heard coming up the fire escape. Selina pulled Danny into a side hug kissing the top of his head as she gave a sharp eyed grin to Waylon, who seemed nervous sitting at their table. His tail flicked a bit.

“Thank you waylon for helping my son get home.” Selina sat beside her son who sat next to Waylon on one side of the table. Harley and ivy taking his other side.

“Uh, wa… wasn’t any trouble at all.” Waylon stuttered watching ivy’s vines carefully as they served everyone portions of the pasta. He noticed his and Danny's were piled extra high. “Thanks for letting me eat with you.”

Danny poured water for everyone from the pitcher. Harley poured red wine into wine glasses for Selina and ivy. Her own into a coffee mug. And one of those handled soup bowls for Waylon that she placed in front of him. He gave her a nervous grin he hoped didn’t look like he was posturing the most dangerous ladies in gotham. He also eyed the empty place setting across from him.

“We are happy to have a friend of danny’s join us.” selina siad pleasantly.

“Atleast ya two are on time. Looks like our favorite dumbass is gonna be late again.” Harley said around a mouthful of food.

“He hasn’t texted yet. He should be here soon.” Ivy responded.

“Who are you waiting on?” Waylon asked carefully. He was a killer, not crazy ok. At this point he felt like any gotham rogue could be dropping down in that last seat. And he didn’t want to be having dinner with a scarecrow or two face, alright, he did not have a death wish. The sound of a motorcycle coming up to their ears as the kid lifted his head from the plate smiling with a mouthful of food.

“Roof!” Danny yelled out leaning back away from the table as the engine stopped in the alley.

“What’s the occasion we’re….” Jason stopped at the top of the fire escape staring at the sight before him as Danny waved excitedly at him. “Croc.” Jason addressed with a raised eyebrow. He wasn’t sure yet if he was happy to be out of his hood attire and in street clothes.

“Waylon.” Ivy and Danny corrected him as he climbed onto the roof and took his seat.
“Sorry, waylon.” Jason corrected. He was met with a short wave from Waylon himself. Who looked a bit confused but was politely eating his meal.

“Kiddo dragged home a present.” Harley laughed at Jason's face. Ignoring Danny's pout and mumble of friend with a mouthful of food.

Jason sighed. “He kidnap you waylon?”

Waylon sat up straighter at the question. “Uh no, he was in sewers. And I couldn't scare him off.” he answered honestly. “He was struggling with a bunch of junk. Uh, can I ask who the hell you are?”

“Jason.” He gave a side eye to the ladies who all held knowing smirks while Danny was obviously stuffing his face at the adults silent teasing. “I’m in red hood’s gang.” he finally sighed. He ignored how much crocs' brows rose at that. Jason took his first bite of dinner. “This is really nice ivy.”

“Thank you Jason, highest compliment coming from you.”

“You’ll find my son doesn’t spook easily.” Selina said to Waylon between bites of her meal.

“He’s not from around here is he?” Waylon asked, looking at Danny then Selina. Still a bit shell shocked at his current situation. But he was eating his food. The large salad tossing fork fit easily in his hand surprisingly to take bites from.

“I’m not.” Danny answered himself.

“Thanks for helping the brat home.” Jason said to waylon. Before looking to danny. “You get what you needed?”

“Yeah! I can make 3 ecto condensers. Not sure where to put them. But I figure one here on the roof and one at your place. And then maybe see if I can hide one in the cemetery a few blocks away. And I think I'll have enough stuff left over for 2 specter deflectors." Danny answered excitedly.

“Good.” Jason gave a nod before looking at Waylon again. “Happy you’re making friends.” ignoring crocs mouth opening and closing silently. Harley let out an obnoxious laugh though while Selina and Pam smiled.

Harley lifted up the wine bowl she’d poured up to waylon. “Drink up, gonna need it with this family.” she snorted. “Might go crazy without it.” she teased as Waylon took the cup from her, carefully taking a sip.

“Welcome to family waylon.” Selina gave him a cheer with her wine glass.

“Poor sap.” Jason chuffed.

Chapter Text

“What cha doing there?” a voice that red robin did not recognize asked not even 3” from his ear. He swung his arm back and spun with his leg out to hit whoever was behind him ignoring the symphony of concerned voices over his com. He did pick up that his video feed had gone out and the com was a little staticy. As he hit nothing behind him. His eyes narrowed at the kid sitting on the wall of the roof edge behind him smiling with his elbows on his knees and head propped on his hands.

“You are way more skittish than I was expecting. Which robin are you by the way?” the kid asked. Cause it was definitely a little kid in a cat themed costume. And it was definitely a costume. Not typical vigilante gear. A cartoon character costume at that, he noted, great.

“I’m red robin. It’s not safe out here. You need to go home.” Tim tried to dismiss the kid. He needed to get his attention back on the facility he had been staking out. He had strong evidence it was going to be the next hit in a line of thefts. But he was definitely taking notes on this distraction.

“No can do, red. Afraid I'm on the prowl tonight.” the kid hopped to his feet and extended a staff. Robin put his hand on his own but didn’t extend it yet. Kid leaned on it while tilting the balls of his feet up. “So what cha doing birdy? I thought robins were diturnal? You’re roosting like a sleeping pigeon.”

Tim decided to turn off his com rather than listen to their commentary on the kids banter. “Cat noir, this is not the time or place…”

“You recognize my costume! That’s awesome! Do you watch it too?” the kid launched himself forward excitedly in a crouch fists vibrating near his face. His staff tucked back into somewhere “Not my name though. But good guess!”

“Yeah sure, how about you tell me your name.”

“Schrodinger.” the kid said with a grin that didn’t seem all that natural or friendly. “You still haven’t answered my question though. I won’t answer anymore of yours till you do.”

“I don’t have time for this. This is not a place for little kids, go…”

“I’m not a little kid!” Schrodinger puffed up.

Tim looked him up and down, Tim was small, this kid was tiny. Like smaller than damian tiny. “You look like your 10.”

Schrodinger scoffed and rolled his head as he turned sideways. “Well you’d be wrong. I’m a very lucky black cat.” the kid laughed at his own joke. “Who crossed your path. So who here should really be the one who needs to go home. And you look like a highschooler by the way.”

“You are interrupting my stake out. Leave please, or I'm going to have to remove you from the area for your own safety.” he pulled out a pair of cuffs to make a point. The kid only smiled wider and his eyes gave a glow through the mask a little.

“I mean you could try.” he lifted his hands up palms up. “But I don't think you actually can.”

Red robin charged the costumed kid hoping to catch him off guard with speed, but just as he reached him he disappeared the only thing left was the sound of his laughter. He slowly spun around, drawing his staff. “Great a meta brat.”

“Catually.” Tim turned to the sight of glowing eyes and teeth appearing near where he had first been crouching and slowly the rest of the kid came into view with his staff extended again. Though it was set at a 45 degree angle and the kid was sitting on it one foot resting on the bar the other dangling down kicking. He was still laughing. “Your face was not as good as the first one. 4/10.”

Tim hit his coms. “I might need back up.”

“Wow, I thought I was just a witty bitty baby a minute ago?” then the kid seemed to perk up. “Wait, red robin is the techy one right? Did you put too many points into that one stat, did you forget the others?”

“What are you doing here?” red robin asked the kid. He seemed to like talking, maybe he could get some useful info.

“Oh that’s easy. I’m discatacting you.” and the kid laughs at red robin's face before an explosion rocks the building they are on coming from the one red had been staking out. They both look at it in mild shock. “Oh shit, that was not supposed to happen.”

“Oracle get emergency services to Mors labs now!” Tim narrowed his eyes on the problem in front of him. Taking out a batarang.

Schrodinger, tapped his cat ear on his head.”is everything ok? What… uh ok, yes i know it’s bad, but was physically blowing it up necessary? Digital wiping is a thing. An emp works fine. I can make small ones. Ugh no. just one. Red robin.” he ignored the batterrang that passed right through him. “He called for backup, several said they were coming. I haven't seen them yet though. Ugh fine. I’m going.” he jumped off his staff and tucked it away, again somewhere tim couldn’t see. “Sorry I can't stay and play with you anymore. I gotta go. Catch ya some other time. Bye!.”

and to Tim's horror the kid stepped off the 5 story roof they were on. He ran forward with a grapple gun in hand to try and grab the meta but when he looked over the edge there was no sign of the kid.

“Oracle, can you try and track down the meta kid? I’ve lost visual on them. They also had a com line of their own with whoever they were working for or with, if you can find it and hack it.”

“Your camera is back online now rr. And fire, police and medical are on the way.”

“I’m headed to check for victims and evacuations of the lab staff if any are there.”

“Batman and Robin are 5 minutes out and will assist.”

********************
“Tsk, bested by a child drake.” Damian scoffed after he entered the cave.

“unknown , with unknown powers. I won’t say I didn't let my guard. They looked like a little kid playing dress up. I thought it’d be easy to send them off.”

“Like you were so easy to dissuade away from the night life at the kids' age.” nightwings voice came in over the computer.

“That’s different!” Tim protested.

“Tsk, yes because this one has powers.”

“Enough, red robin, debrief, start with why you were investigating that lab. You got lucky there were no fatalities and only injuries.”

“I’d gotten some internal communications chatter, that a few government labs were being robbed. But no police reports were being filed. The employees talking didn’t even know anything about the organization that was being brought into investigate the thefts. Whatever was stolen was top secret and they don’t want people outside the labs to know about it. And the labs are all different government contractors. I have actual reports I can send you from my computer.” Tim let out with a sigh.

“Why didn’t you call for back up sooner?” Bruce asked.

“It was my case, and only thefts, and of what I still have no idea.” Tim defended. “There had been no injuries or even any contact between the thief and employees till tonight.”

“I expect that file as soon as you arrive at the nest tomorrow.” Tim gave an acquiesce hand gesture at that. “What about the meta kid? Start with a physical description.” Batman said. Robin was typing away at the bat computer.

“Adoption bait.” Tim let out with a tired sigh. And let nightwing and Damians arguing give him a few moments to wander over to the coffee machine in the cave and start it up.

****************
“What the hell happened?!” Red hood asked Catwoman before she fully climbed into the safe house he was in. catching an external harddrive she threw at him. “You got too much attention with that bombing.”

“It was Harley, and I wasn't going to stop her. Your lucky ivy held her back till I finished the download. Kiddo’s risk of injury if we killed anyone is the only reason the blast was contained.”

“What the hell did you find?” he growled through his helmet modulator. He hadn’t even started getting out of his suit yet. Having to tell the bats to fuck off when they asked for help with the explosion.

“I suggest not watching it till you feel you have yourself under control. Hood.” he stared at the woman with her hands balled into tight fists, she was shaking. From anger. That was definitely anger in her eyes. Fury even. “Those servers held data on the GIW experiments. Video data.” she took a deep breath looking away from hood as her hands shook worse like she was holding back from strangling someone. “They had my son. Hood, they had Danny for 2 weeks. He didn’t even tell me. It wasn’t it wasn’t in Jack's notes. He… my son…” hood set down the harddrive as fast as he could so he wouldn’t crush it. And was on his feet, in her space. She wiped around on him. “I want them dead. All of them. Painfully.” she closed her eyes and sobbed. “I wanted to let Harley bash their heads in and Ivy wanted to take down the whole place. But I couldn't with Danny there. He has to protect people. And god he would’ve saved those monsters…”

Hood grabbed her shaking shoulders pulling her close for a hug. “We’ll take them down Selina. We’ll end all of them. No ones hurting the kid again.”

“His screams… jay… they…” he held her as she cried he fought to keep his roiling anger from bubbling over into rage. “He was supposed to be safe.”

“He is now.”

*******************************
Danny sat on the couch curled into a ball with bud and lou. Harley had wrapped him in a blanket and ivy had brought him some nice calming herbal tea. As the two women sat across from him.

“Sweetheart, we aren’t mad you didn’t tell us. But can you just explain why?” Ivy asked softly as Danny stared at his drink.

“Didn’t want to think about it ever again.” he mumbled. “It’s what ruined everything. It is why jazz had me tell my parents. I missed the last month of school, i… i was going to fail and be held back if my parents didn’t give me an excuse.” he had tears running down his cheeks. Harley noted his bigger concern about school than his torture. “They hadn’t even noticed I was gone really. They never check in on me with any of my friends or anything.” his lip wobbled. “I just needed their help to get the school handled. I couldn’t… we couldn’t just do it all by ourselves, like we had been. But my mom, she hates me now. She hates me.” and Danny cried. Harley grabbed the spilled tea from him as she and Ivy squished up on either side of him hugging him. As he cried and mourned everything he lost back in amity.

Chapter Text

A smile and a pair of glowing eyes met Dick’s from across the rooftop he was on.

“Schrodinger right?” Nightwing called out, friendly. The neighboring roof he could make even without his grapples so he’s sure he can be heard. And he smiles back even more as the rest of the kid comes into view.

Oracle came in over his coms to tell him his video feed isn’t working. And Batman asked him to collect information on Schrodinger if he can.

“That’s me, who are you?” the kid asked, crouching on the wall of the roof. Nightwings smile faltered a little bit. Just cause he can make the jump, he’s not sure that short little kid can.

“I’m Nightwing the hero of Bludhaven.” Nightwing said proudly posed.

“Bludhaven? Then what are you doing in Gotham?” the kid asked with a laugh.

“You are not from around here are you kid?” Nightwing laughed. “You are in Bludhaven right now by the way.”

The kid tilted his head sideways looking around. “Is Bludhaven like the alley then? Like Red Hood is the hero of crime alley? This is your haunt?”

That information caught Dick's attention. This kid considered Jason a hero. And knew about crime alley but not Bludhaven. That’s probably a big tell on where the kid was scooped up at. Jason wasn’t gonna like that. “No, this is a different city. It’s Gothams neighbor. But yes I take care of this place like Red Hood takes care of crime alley.”

“Wow Nightwing gaslighting children now.” he heard Tim over the coms.

“Like Red Hood, not Batman?” the kid asked, eyes carefully trained on his face.

“Well , we all work together and are friends.” Nightwing answered. He smiled even bigger when the kid barked out a laugh.

“I don’t think Hood would like anyone saying he’s friends with Batman.” the kid’s grin turned sharp. “He might shoot ya for that slander.

Nightwing laughed back. “You got me there. You skittish tonight Schrodinger? Red Robin said you were more friendly than feral.” nightwing's eyebrows rose as the kid literally started glowing at that. However that shock turned to fear as the kid launched themself off the wall. Not even a running jump. “KID!” he yelled before a metal pole shot out to hang off both roofs with the kid hanging underneath. He spun around till he sat on top of the pole.

Schrodinger laughed at him. “Your face was great. Promise I won't fall.”

“That’s good to know.” Nightwing replied. But held out his hand towards the kid. “But how about you come back to solid ground for me?” Nightwing mirrored his little kitty boy as he hopped up on his rod. Staring down nightwing.

“I made this. It’s not going to suddenly collapse. You act like you don’t know cats always land on their feet.”

“You’re not a cat though you’re a kitten.” Nightwing smiled though when Schrodinger took his hand. He patted the kid on the back when he landed next to him. Careful to place a tracker on him as he did so. “Thanks for humoring me.” he watched the kid pick up his rod and it shrink down to a bo staff. “That’s pretty cool. You said you made that?”

“Yep, you really know Red Hood?”

“Sure do. I sometimes come over to crime alley to give him a hand when he needs it. You his alley cat?” he smiled when the kid laughed again.

“He chased me a whole block when I told him I was gonna pick that as my name. He said he didn’t need any more punsters in his life. I guess he was talking about you.”

“Probably was. That is usually my gimmick.”

“I’ll give ya a strut for your money.” the little kitten said back.

“We’ll see about that. He make you pick another name cause he hated that one so much?”

“Naw he hates this one more. So I still won.”

“So what are you doing all the way over here in Bludhaven? Seems pretty far for an alley kitten.”

“I didn’t stray too far from my colony.”

“Want to tell me who or where they are? I can help you get back to them?” Nightwing made a great effort to keep his easy smile even as the kid's grin split his mouth wider than seemed humanly possible.

“I’m a black cat, not an orange cat.”

“I have a friend who could probably explain that to me. I’m not sure I got the joke.”

“That’s ok. You seem more like a dog kind of guy.” kid looked up at him sideways. “So what are you doing in this part of your town? And how come you haven’t tried to cuff me like Red Robin?”

“You seem like a good kitten. Maybe a little feral.” Nightwing ruffled the kid's hair, and knocked his ears about a bit. The kid laughed and fixed them. “But a good one. I don’t think you need to be taken in by the warden.”

“I may or may not be checking in on the industrial area in my territory. Sense Red Robin said 6 military contractors got hit in Gotham, been checking in on ones in my area just in case.”

“What the hell are you doing Nightwing!” Red Robin shouted over the com.

“Huh he only found 6. Guess he’s not that good. Hood will find that funny though.”

“Excuse me?” Red Robin screeched before his com was cut off.

Nightwing chuckled, “wanna share with the class the correct number?”

“Not on my 9 lives. Though I might be down 2 or 3 by now.” the kid actually seemed to stop and think about it. Counting out on his fingers. Mumbling under his breath. “I’m gonna go with a solid 6. Yeah. 6 lives.”

“Sure kiddo.” Nightwing patted him on the shoulder. “Strays are usually down a few.”

“I’m feral, not a stray.” the kid teased back, shoving his arm. “Just cause I won't lead you home.”

“You the kind of stray I can lead to my home with some good treats?”

“You can’t purr-sausay me that easily. Sorry to break it to you. You’re to clawful”

“I am pur-fection out of all the bats and birds I'll have you know.”

“Pft, you are nowhere near as purr-fect as Hood. Almost as fun though. Less cattitude. But I like his. Makes him fun to rile up." Schrodinger phased through him before climbing up nightwings back. Nightwing shuddered at the chill of the kid moving through him. But let the kid climb him.

“You really are a kitten.” Nightwing hummed, turning to survey some of the labs in the area. He let the kid sit on his shoulders. Tugging at his hair. “How about, can you tell me why you’re helping your family rob labs?”

“We aren’t robbing anyone.” the kitten on his head answered. Humming a bit as Nightwing felt more tugging on his head.

“And what do you catcall it?”

“Boo, I don't like that one. Catcalling is rude.” the kid gave his hair a tug. “But it’s called restitution and child support.”

“That’s oddly specific. You know that probably tells me a lot your connection to these places.” Nightwing shared. Kid probably didn’t mean to drop that, hopefully who this kid thought was his family wouldn’t take that information out on him.

“You’re not Batman. But you said you’re friends. I’m sure he already knows. He’s the world’s greatest detective right?” the kid said with a sneer. “Nothing gets past him. So he can tell you, or maybe he forgot about all of us.”

“Hey kitten,” Nightwing tried to interject but was interrupted by a bell chime.

“Hey, no I'm hanging out with some guy called Nightwing.”

“Some guy, hey I let you climb me like a cat tree.” Nightwing found the laugh to be worth it. He caught some movement inside one of the buildings.

“He’s been clawesome, I'm doing his hair. It's almost done. I need to tie it off. Then I'm ready. Was everyone better behaved today? Sweet. Hey Nightwing no explosions today. And your hair is done. Hope you like it.” he felt his kitten climb down off his back.

“I will cherish it kiddo. You leaving?”

“Yep. see you around.” and the kid disappeared before his eyes.

Ngihtwing made sure his com was up as he grappled closer to the building he think’s was hit to investigate. “So, we have an axim labs, and uh I get the feeling that our new kitten really doesn’t like you B.”

“He is not ours Nightwing.” Robin growled over the line.

“Sounds like he’s Hoods.” Spoiler giggled. “He was practically gushing over him. So much praise, if hood heard it he’d be as red as his helmet.”

“We need to check in with Hood. Kid’s obviously not from Gotham or jersey. But he’s knowledgeable about Hood’s turf. Wonder if he was brought in by meta human traffickers or a runaway who stumbled in?”

“Schrodinger makes is sound like he’s close with Hood, we can just ask him if he knows the kid and what info he has on him. Maybe Hood doesn’t know someone has this kid helping with crimes.”

“He hates people dragging kids into crime.”

“Ok, well i’m not calling him.” Red Robin cut in.
“Not it!” Cass and Steph and Babs all called over the com at one time.

“Tsk, that is childish behavior.” Robin paused. “I will also not be calling.”

“B calls he hangs up at first breathe.”

“I’ve got a scene to check out. And a tracker to follow.”

“Only because you were playing with a stray.”

“We got some information. Didn’t we?”

“Enough. Call hood nightwing on a private connection. Oracle record it please.”

“You got it B.”

***********************
“I feel like this is meant as a message.” dick said over the coms. He had found his tracker in a construction zone porta john at the bridge leading back to gotham. “I’m not going to be collecting this tracker. Kill it please RR.”

***********

“What do you want, Dick head?”

“Hey jay! Little wing! Can’t I just want to check in with my baby brother?”

“If that’s what this is, I'm hanging up.”

“No! Wait! Ugh Jay, i’m calling about a kid in a kitty costume. Goes by schrodinger. You know anything about him?”

“Yeah.”

“Jay, can you give me something? I’m worried about this kid. He’s a sweet little meta kid. I’m worried…”

Jason barked out laughing. “Man, what the hell did the brat pullover on you? That little feral gremlin is anything but sweet. He’s a menace.”

“Jay, I'm serious. He’s a little kid, like 10-12. I think he’s mixed up with the wrong crowd and is going to get hurt.”

“If he’s hanging out with you, I'd have to agree definitely with the wrong crowd, gonna get him hurt. Probably by all of you.” dick let out an annoyed huff. “He’s 13 by the way. Just tiny. Malnourished young, stress, other factors, but he’s just small for his age.”

“Can you just reassure me? If not, I'm going to go looking for him myself.”

“Oh don’t worry, he’ll find you now when he’s bored. He’s marked you as easy prey. And don’t tag him again. His mom will gut you.”

“You know the adults he’s with!” Nightwing said excitedly. That was good news. “Are they actually family or are they using him?”

“Actual family. Kid is perfectly safe. He’s just keeping a lookout.”

Dick’s brows pinched. “Wait, you know he’s going on b&E jobs?”

“Yeah, and I'm helping. They are mine and the outlaws' case. So tell timmers and the rest to back the fuck off. And let them work. stay away from the kid. And keep their noses out of it. before they get their noses shoved in the dirt.” Jason, they hung up on it.

Chapter Text

“shit , shit, shit!” Danny chanted to himself in a panic as he ran through the streets of Gotham, in his Schrodinger costume. Trying and failing to shake off batman. His mom gave him express rules not to use any more than his invisibility, intangibility, hovering and glowing powers in view of the city's growing list of heroes and villains. At Least not without her explicit consent, and verification they were who Danny thought they were. And it was making it really hard to shake the bat without flying or making a duplicate. Even running through buildings invisible wasn’t shaking the bat. At this point he was pretty sure there was a tracker on him. Not that he could find it. And no time to really dig around in himself if it got in him while intangible. He was not supposed to fight anybody if he could avoid it. And he did not want to fight batman. Even if he was allowed.

He had been doing so good completely avoiding batman too for these past 4 months. Heckled his birds regularly and splitting just before the big bad bat got on scene. But he had to screw up when he was off by himself of course. Following some idiots who were selling some weird glowing green drug. Sue him, curiosity killed the cat and all that. He was just spooking them. They weren’t in hood’s haunt. He may be a baby ghost but he was the ghost king dammit he wanted to branch out of the safety of his new crazy half dead uncle's territory. A baby bird leaving the nest for the first time to test his wings. Let it be known Jason had hated that particular phrasing when Danny had pitched it to hood when he caught him leaving crime alley earlier that night. But let him go if he promised to stick to his mom’s rules. And he had been doing so good too. Till Batman dropped in behind him after he had scared off the drug dealers and their customer in the middle of the sale. He might have been to busy laughing to notice right away. But he definitely stopped laughing when Batman's hand had clamped down on his shoulder. And bolted with intangibility as fast as his legs would take him.

He had to dodge a few grabs and grapples from batman. Unsure if the man had any anti-ghost tech. Or even knew Danny was a ghost. He was doing a good job he thought not transforming or using all his powers. So he should pass as just another meta. But you can’t be to sure with someone like the batman. But that's ok too. He knew one of Batman's secrets. Red hood had told him himself. Batman isn’t allowed in crime alley. So that was where Danny was headed with a single minded determination. No stopping for a single distraction. Not even dodging what was that? A freaking net? What is he a stray cat? Don’t ask Jason that.

“Just stop already kid.'' Batman shouted as he dropped down in front of Danny. Making Danny freeze before barreling straight through the batman with his eyes closed.

“Nope!”

“I want to talk.”

“Nope, nope, nope.'' Danny chanted. One block. Safety was in reach. One more business block and he’d be home free. He heard the grapple gun again. But that building in front of him was Hood's turf. He went invisible and straight through the wall. Once inside he flew up to the roof. Bent over panting hands on his knees for a minute before dropping his invisibility. “Oh thank the ancients.'' Danny said to himself before standing up right to look around and get his bearings. He just needed to figure out where Jason was before going home. He’d know how to get a bug out of him. He was not expecting to see Batman standing behind him in grabbing reach again. He stumbled away landing on his ass before scrambling back away. “Wha…? How? Red hood said you can’t come into his haunt? How are you here?” he squawked trying to get to his feet.

“You know hood?” batman asked, stalking towards his target. Batman knew how to counter the kid's intangibility with electricity, but didn’t want to hurt him, or spook him with a taser. He really did just want to interrogate the kid. Young Meta kid was playing a dangerous game in gotham playing something between vigilante and rogue. He needed to verify if he was apprenticing to Selina or not. His behavior is a bit too inconsistent and erratic to pin down where he aligned himself on the night life.

“Ugh, yeah. Everyone in the alley knows hood.'' Danny sassed back at the bat. Not sure his raised eyebrow was reading through his mask. The only thing he really disliked about his new look. But he understood why it was needed. But he missed being able to express his every mood to his opponents and allies though without a word. Whelp Batman saw the panic in his mouth pulling wide teeth closed tight at his back on the building roof lip. “Fuck.”

“You’re coming with me kid. No point on running. Let’s go.” batman reached for danny again. But danny pulled his arms up and phased as he tucked and rolled through batman again launching back up to his feet and running towards the edge of the roof that pointed deeper into the alley. He boosted the jump with his anti gravity powers. “Sorry batsy, mom says not to go with strangers at night.” he yelled out without looking back. He was a few feet from the next roof he was going to have to jump when he heard the sound of something sailing towards him again. He tapped into his intangibility again just before it was to hit only to scream and fall to the roof. His intangibility shorted out from the bolo to wrap around his legs that were electrocuting him.

The power output was low and quick, like a short burst taser. But it didn’t stop Danny from spiraling. screaming like he was dying again holding himself tight and shaking on the roof. Tears pooling in his eyes. “No, no, please, no.” Danny barely whined out as he started hyperventilating. Batman kneeled next to him, hands hovering over him. After the hard flinch and sob at his touch from the kid.

“Kid, your fine breath.” Batman ground out. Thrown off by the kids reaction. He was regretting using the taser. “Come on kid. Just take a deep breath for me.”

“Get the fuck away from him old man!”

Batman dodge just as a bullet ricocheted off the roof where he had been next to schrodinger. Kid hadn’t even flinched at the bullet when Batman glanced at the shaking sobbing teen. Though he couldn’t linger. Dodging red hood’s fist that was coming straight at his face as his son grappled towards him. Forcing Batman to retreat from his target. Allowing hood to place himself between the two. He had one gun drawn and now pointed at Batman with the other hand empty.
“You aren’t welcome here. Now get the fuck out before i put a bullet in your head for ignoring my warning, or hurting the kid. Whichever way I decide to justify it.” red hood said viciously through his helmet modulator.

Batman glared through the cowl at hood. “He was involving himself in drug deals of venom.”

“Trying to warp what happened, to make it sound like he was dealing? To my face really?” hood growled. “I know the kid was fucking off. Spooking some dealers off. Don’t try and twist the facts on me.'' Hood kept his gun on Batman as he squatted down and cut the bolo off his baby brother. Running a soothing hand down the kids back as he choked on his sobs. “Get the fuck out of here. Last warning. Only warning on this. You hurt this kid again. I will hunt you down where you sleep to put a bullet in you.”

“It was an accident, hood.” a bullet hit the roof at his feet.

“I’m not listening to your bullshit excuses. Leave!” Hood raised his gun up to be aiming at his head. Finger resting next to the trigger.

“This isn’t over.” Batman said his parting peace as he stepped off the roof shooting his grapple firing shortly after.

Hood waited till he was sure B was clear of the area before setting the safety and holstering his gun. Giving his full attention to the panicked teen curled up behind him. “Hey, hey, shhhhh. Breathe for me baby brat.” hood laid next to him pulling danny’s hand to his own chest. “Copy me kiddo.” it took a while to work through the breathing exercises. Hood was just thankful danny didn’t need to breathe that much and was still conscious. Took a while but he finally got Danny calmed down enough to sit up in his lap, arms wrapped around his head tucked into his shoulder. “What happened? I heard you scream bloody murder.”

“I’m sorry.” Danny mumbled into his shoulder.

“You don’t need to apologize.” Hood rubbed Danny's back in gentle circles. “What’d that bastard do to ya?”

“I was running from him.'' Danny squeezed Hood's arms. “He kept trying to grab me. I couldn’t shake him. I think… i think i have a tracker stuck inside me.” hood growled at that. “I thought i was clear of him if i just got back to your haunt. You said he can’t come here.'' Danny let out a shaky breath. “I screwed up. I stopped when I crossed the boundary. He followed me. I got hit with something when I went to run again. Something that shocked me.” danny let out a sob. “I’m sorry. I panicked. It set off…”

“Ssshhhh.” hood brought a hand up to the kids head, petting his hair. “You don’t have to say it. I know. No apologies. It’s not your fault.” he gave the kid a squeeze with the arm across his back. And he let him sob into his shoulder. He sat there for a few minutes just holding his little brother till he calmed back down enough. “Let's start with the tracker. We get that out i can take you home.” he moved danny away from him. “Where do you think it’s at?”

“I think it’s inside my back or shoulder. I couldn't find it in my clothes.” Danny ducked his head down. “I think he just got lucky and timed it so i was intangible and then i dropped it before it passed through me.”

“Doubt it was luck. Probably planned that." Hood gruffed, rotating the kid in his lap. He pulled a device from one of his pockets that was used to find bugs and trackers. Running it over danny’s back slowly till it lit up over his right shoulder. “Got the location. Alright you drowned cat. Open your mary poppins bag for me.” he waited till danny went intangible then shoved his hand into the kids shoulder. Cringing in his helmet at the feeling of rummaging around the kids insides. Feeling the ghost of bones and muscles as he moved his hand around till he felt the hard metal. “Got it.” hood quickly pulled out his hand and the tracker. Crushing it as soon as it was out of danny’s body.

“Thanks uncle good.” Danny said with a giggle. (not a typo.)

“Don’t call me that.” Red Hood said, getting to his feet pulling the kid with him. Danny let his feet dangle while held up but one arm to the red hood's chest. “Let's get you home, you trouble making stray.”

“Trouble found me tonight. I didn’t make any trouble." Danny pouted. As hood grappled them towards the sirens house deep in the alley.

Hood snorted. “Want to plan to make some trouble?” Danny tilted his head back to look at hood with a tilt to his head. “I say we send the bat a message for that shit he pulled on you. And for stepping on my turf. I let him off too easily tonight.”

“You want us to actually go out, with the intent to fuck with batman? Are you crazy? Mom is gonna loose her shit as it is when she finds out i almost got snatched up like some fucking stray.'' Danny said incredulously.

“Who says your mom’s gotta know.” hood paused. “About either.” Danny was open mouth gaping at him now. “Anyway, a message. How about next night you don’t have homework or a test the next day, we go out and wreck the batmobile.”

“You’re really not gonna tell mom I almost got caught by batman?”

“Nope.”

“Wreck as in crash or like jilted ex?”

Hood huffed. The sound garbled on his voice changer. “Jilted ex.” he watched the kids' eyes start to glow in excitement.

“Oh my gawd. I am so in. I got the perfect idea for it." Danny started to squirm in his excitement. Hood tightens his hold. Even though it wouldn’t be a big deal to drop the kid. Then the kid froze. “Wait, how are we going to find the batmobile let alone screw with it? I’m sure it has a ton of alerts and alarms on it.”

“You let me worry about that. You can be creative. My only stipulation is we take the tires.”

***************************

Batman and Robin arrived to the batmobile in its hidden location under a safe house, after a long night of patrol, without a single alarm or alert triggered. The two vigilantes paused at the sight.

The batmobile was up on blocks, all the tires gone. It appeared to be keyed down both sides as the two vigilantes circled the car to check for any traps. The canopy was ripped off and smashed on the ground beside it. The headlights smashed in. the back seats from it had been ripped out and slashed and shot at a few feet away. The dash ripped open with several of the components sitting in the front passenger seat. In the driver's seat. Sat a tire iron, and a small speaker playing the song two seater, by bowling for soup. Batman had frozen up at the sight of the front seat. Causing waves of emotions to roll over him as he stared down the offending items. From anger and frustration, to joy and love, before they would tear back to the former like those emotions were at war with each other. His shoulders rose just a bit from the tension and stress.

Robin's head shot up and Batman cocked his head at the sound of a child’s laughter breaking through the quiet of the safe house’s hidden garage. Though it was quickly muffled. With a thumping noise. Robin moved towards it with his sword drawn. Batman raised a hand to stop robin in his pursuit. Robin turned his glaring pout on batman. “The culprits will escape if we don’t pursue them immediately, father!”

Batman reached into the car and pulled out the tire iron. “We already know who it was robin. No need to pursue. We got his message.”

Robin tsked at his father. “Will we not confront the culprit? Or will it be at a later date?”

“I’m sure we will have an opportunity to confront the culprits at a later date.'' Batman made his way to exit the hidden garage. “Come now. It’s going to long trip back to the cave if we dawdle much longer.”

***************

“Kid, you are absolute shit at stealth. Do you know that?” the red hood grumbled as he ran across the rooftops invisible thanks to the brat he had a hold of. Dragging him along by his hand like a balloon.

Shrodenger struggled through his laughter, "I don't need to be stealthy. I'm a distraction usually. That's like the opposite of stealthily."

"There are times where it is very necessary for survival." Hood ground out.

"Where's the fun in that though?"

"This is why I think children should not be out in the field as heroes or villains." Hood let out an exasperated sigh.

Danny flipped his face down in front of Hood's helmet, a Cheshire pointy tooth grin spreading too wide across his face. "Could teach me to be stealthy uncle good."

"Absolutely fucking not." Hood came to a stop on top of one of his safe houses. Pulling Danny to the ground and flipping him right side up.

Danny's grin didn't drop. "Is it because you're not that stealthy either mister bomber."

Hood turned Danny around and started walking him to the fire escape. "Checking for trackers. And then you're going home."

"Mom says you're just as dramatic a little shit as me. This proved it." Danny slumped back against Jason's chest. "We could have so much fun together."

"Fuck no."

"Party pooper."

*************
"Hey alfred."

"Hello Master Jason, what a pleasant surprise." Alfred answered his cellphone. "Is everything alright?"

"I'm still kicking alfie." Jason chuckled. "But I need a favor though. And no one can know about it."

"And what kind of favor might that be master jason?" Alfred answered.

"Do you have any of Damien's old all black under suits? With the electricity dampers? Preferably one without the trackers."

Alfred's eyebrows rose as the request. "I do, they are in storage. I would need to go over them to ensure they are still in good working order if they are intended to be used, as is."

"Definitely going to be used." Jason gave an annoyed huff. "I think, if you have ones from when the demon brat was around 11, those would probably be the best fit. Kids tiny."

Alfred didn't think his eyebrow could climb any higher. "Master Jason, is this your way of informing me you have taken on a young sidekick of your own?" Alfred asked, a bit of judgment in his tone.

"Absolutely not. Brat is not my sidekick. If I could kick his ass back home and keep him there at night I would. But there are some extreme extenuating circumstances that makes that go from widely complicated to near impossible to do that." Jason groaned. Alfred could just picture Master Jason rubbing his hand harshly down his face.

"I can't stop the kid from doing whatever he's gonna do. But, I'd like to keep him a bit safer out on the streets." Jason paused before continuing. "Kids got some serious trauma. One of his triggers is being shocked. Since B sent him into a ptsd attack on their first encounter. I think he should have to pony up the goods to make sure it's less likely to happen again."

Alfred was silent for a moment. "Master Bruce, injured a young vigilante? When?" Alfred inquired with concern.

Jason huffed a laugh. "I wouldn't call Schrodinger a vigilante per say. More like a chaotic gremlin. But he does dabble in being a hero on occasion. And about 3 weeks ago. B wouldn't take no for an answer from the kid about being interrogated." Jason's next bit was more softly spoken. "Messed the kid up for a while Alfie. Selina said he's been waking up from nightmares for last couple of weeks."

Alfred pursed his lips at that. "I will be sure to address Master Bruce's behavior to him." He smiled at Jason's chuckle. "The rumors of the child, that Miss Kyle has taken on a protégé of sorts is well founded I presume."

Jason's side of the call got very quiet. Making Alfred a bit concerned that he misspoke.

"Alfred, I need to swear you to secrecy. Please. I'll explain later and I swear to you there is a good reason for hiding this for now. And you will be the first to know as soon as I can. But please, you got to trust me and swear you won't say anything to anyone. Selina will murder me again and bury me in the sewers if not feed me to croc if this gets to anyone of the nosey family."

"Master Jason, I swear anything you divulge to me will not be shared with anyone." Alfred was quick to reassure his second oldest grandson.

"Sit down please." Jason directed him before taking a deep breathe. Alfred was quick to follow the demand. But it just made him more concerned though he did not voice it. "Schrodinger is Selinas son. Her biological son. He's 13 alfred."

Alfred's hand tightens on the phone. His other hand came up to cup it for fear he'd drop it. He was very grateful for Jason's warning.

"He's…" Jason took a heavy breath. His name is danny. Can't call him Daniel. He flinches when he gets called that. If he feels your safe he'll ask you not to call him that." Jason gave a wet chuckle. "Kid’s a chip off the old block in a lot of ways. But way better adjusted all things considered."

"Master Jason," Alfred said wetly into the phone. "May i…"

"I'll get you some pictures somehow. And as soon as I can I will try to set up a meeting for you 2. But he can't find out about his bio dad yet. There is alot going on. But you should be the first to know him. I think it will help once he can be properly introduced. I don't know when that will be though."

"The young Master is well though?" Alfred asked quietly. Barely composing himself. His eyes closed in pain at Jason's next words.

"It's, it's complicated. He's as good as he can be in his situation. Which is to say, way too close to my own alfie."

"He is mostly alive, and he is here. He's supported, and loved."

"Very good master jason." Alfred said wetly. " So very good."

Chapter Text

“Kiddo we should not be going down this way. The dump isn’t in this direction.” croc tried to dissuade danny from his path. They were once again trudging around the sewers.not even his sewers. They were outside his turf, or haunt as the kid liked to call it croc had found out.

"But someone is down here. I can feel it. And they need help."

"Danny you need help." Croc mumbled under his breath.

“Well yeah, I thought that’s why you wanted to come along.” Danny sassed back.

“How do you even know someone is down here or this direction?” croc growled a bit frustrated. This kid did not know what kinds of fucked up shit ends up in gotham sewers. Croc preferred to avoid most of them too that were not smaller than him.

“Same way I know where crime alley, and where red hood and Jason are all the time.” Danny answered easily as he kept floating down new tunnels. His personal glow lighting the way. The white hair moving in no wind, and the little hero suit was odd to croc, but he wasn’t gonna judge a kid wanting to play hero. He’s got powers, he could anywhere else besides gotham. “They are somewhat dead. And my ghost sense is tingling.”

“What like spiderman?” croc questioned. The kid's powers confused him to no end. Why couldn’t they be basic?

“You watch the spiderman movies?”

“No, I read the comic books that’d make it down in the rain storms.”

“Then we got to watch the movies next time you come over. We can project them on the wall outside and drag out some chairs.” Danny said with a beaming sharp toothy smile. “And kind of like that but for ghosts and ghost adjacent, not always danger with them. But I don't think this is a ghost or a halfa.”

“Ok if it’s not a ghost then what the hell is it?” croc didn’t like the growing stench of death and rot. He really hoped it was an animal corpse they were coming up on.

Danny turned a corner, his glow getting brighter, with his beaming smile. “A zombie!” he announced cheerily. Even threw his little fists up in the air. Croc’s jaw dropped. He rushed forward grabbing Danny out of the air, flung both of them to the far side of the tunnel as grundy grumbled as he came to the entrance Danny had just been standing in.

“We do not fuck with grundy!” croc admonished the kid, holding him as he backed the two away from the looming monster of a former man. Unintelligible grumbles and groans coming from him. Danny stayed in crocs arms but kept smiling at grundy. Strange buzzing and clicks croc could pick up coming from the kids chest. “Danny what is that?” he caught the sound then grundy responded with his warbling groans when the sound danny made paused.

“You can hear me?” Danny asked, blinking up owlishly from Waylon's arms.

“The buzzing and clicks, yes. Whatever it is please…”

“It’s ghost speak.” he phased his arm through waylon’s to point at grundy. “He speaks it too. He needs some ecto bad. It’s why he’s moving so slow. And can’t get his vocal cords really moving enough to talk.”

“The green goop that comes out of that machine you built?” croc questioned, still keeping space between them and grundy. “Listen kiddo. Me and grundy have an understanding down here. I stay away from him, he stays away from me. Otherwise we usually get into fights.”

Danny gave an affirmative nod. “Yeah. Ghosts like to fight as a form of bonding. I guess zombies have a bit of that too. But he was also probably defending his haunt. Ghosts can get defensive of their haunts, some more than others. Grundy here asking why we are in his haunt. And I told him we were looking for him.”

“Yeah, how’d he like that answer?” noticed grundy wasn’t coming up on them anymore just staring them down.

“He was concerned. But don’t worry, I told him we are here to be his friends. And help him. He just needs to follow us back to the house or the graveyard so we can get him some ecto to help him. He’s cool with that. So if you are calm now, you can let me down and we can show him how to get back.”

Croc side eyed Danny and grundy. “And once he gets juiced up, what are the chances he’s going to attack us?”

Danny just shrugged. “Eh, 50/50. Right now his mental functions controlling his body are kinda slower too. He doesn’t have enough energy to keep the functions up well, and is basically fighting rigor. Jump starting everything might push the backlog of processes through till he catches up. Or might trigor fight or flight. Or he’ll just be fine, Who knows. First zombie I've met." When croc didn’t release him right away Danny phased right through him before floating up to grundy, moving past him over his shoulder. “This way buddy. Let’s get you out of this dead end.”

Grundy kept his eyes on croc till he wasn’t able too, in turning to follow danny. Putting his back to waylon before slowly trudging after the ghost boy. “Now that’s some dead-ication! Just keep walking mr. grundy. I know it hurts right now but we’ll get you fixed up quicker than burial.”

Croc made a desperate noise, “kiddo, please no zombie puns. What if he’s offended? We don’t want an angry zombie.”

“I can pick up his emotions. It’s part of ghost speak. He’s exasperated, not mad.” Danny floated to be seen above Grundy's bulk. And then his light brightened back up again. “He likes company. Doesn’t want us in his direct space. I think maybe touching his body right now causes pain. And I know the movement does.”

“Don’t worry, not touching.” croc affirmed. Before wrinkling his nose. “Will the ecto help with the stench?”

“a little bit. We probably need to wash his clothes and or get him some new ones. That will help a lot. Plus a shower. But that will hurt for a while still till his body gets enough energy to move out of rigor.”

Waylon didn’t want to think how the ladies were going to react to the kid bringing grundy home for a bath. Could he even fit through the door? He was nearly as broad and tall as Waylon himself. Were they going to need to strip him down and hose him off in the street? Man if the neighbors weren’t freaking out about Waylon's constant presence at the apartment they were definitely going to be turning heads with both of them.

************

“the fuck is going on here?” Jason asked, pulling up on his bike in full red hood gear. His modulator makes it come out less confused and more angry. A little early, but the gang had been getting calls of concern from the neighbors in the area. And hood decided to check it out hoping someone was having a bad trip and causing a panic. Obviously that was false hope. The bubbling of laughter he felt roiling over the pit, or his core, as Danny corrected him now, was met by a completely new embarrassment feeling that was not coming from danny. He didn’t know how he knew that feeling wasn’t danny. But it wasn’t.

Ivy had her vines holding a drape up covering the very obviously naked lower half of fucking solomon grundy. In her hands a steaming watering can. The guy's hands tucked below the line of sight probably covering his manhood. Danny was floating at his shoulders scrubbing soap into his hair gently. While Harley had a swifter with a washcloth strapped to it scrubbing down his chest. Croc was hovering around nearby just watching everyone real twitchy like. And Selina was on the roof putting Grundy's clothes out on the line to dry in the alley.

“Hi uncle good!” Danny said cheerily but didn’t stop his task. Ivy handed him the water can while he carefully tipped back Grundy's head, made a little splash guard of freaking ghost ice and rinsed Grundy's hair. In the middle of the fucking street. Well front of the building but might as well be in the middle of the street. What few cars passed through were definitely rubbernecking.

“Don’t call me that! I am literally a murdering crime lord!” Jason scowled ineffectively. Even though he knew Danny could feel his very intentionally projected feelings of annoyance and what the fuckery. If the teasing and joy were anything of note.
“Alright big guy. Ain’t nothing we haven’t seen before. Move the paws so I can finish washing down the rest of ya. Ive’s need a new rag." Ivy handed her girlfriend a fresh warm and dampened cloth of soap. While Harley batted grundy’s hands away from his junk.

Hood just stared at her like she was insane. She is. He knows this, but come on, this is unhinged even for her. Then he felt it again, even stronger. The embarrassment, the oh gawd arousal and shame gratefulness, just crashing into him. His head snapped to Grundy's face. His facial features pinched tight. “Holy shit! I can feel Grundy's emotions too?!”

Grundy’s eyes opened and his head turned towards hood the feeling of embarrassment swelled, putting any second hand embarrassment he has ever felt to shame. nothing , nothing compared to the sheer overwhelmedness he felt of it. Followed by sorry/sorry/pushed/need/better/sorry/shame/ hood took a half step back. Nearly tripping over his bike.

“Keep it up hood, and you’ll be the next one who gets hosed off. Like an unwanted guest.” selina sing songed from the fire escape as she climbed down.

“I like to think of it as watering a garden to help it grow and reach it’s full potential.” ivy responded. Passing Danny another steaming watering can. He used to rinse soap off grundy’s back.

“This wasn’t my idea.” croc interjected, defensive. “I couldn’t stop him.”

“You gonna stand there gawking at our guest hood? Ya pervert. Make ya self useful. Get our big boy a toga from the linen closet while we dry him off.”

Chapter Text

Jason sat at the kitchen head tipped over the chair back staring at the ceiling. He had come back to the siren’s place after his normal rounds. Luckily Danny was asleep, his little day adventure putting him to bed by midnight for a change. His helmet sat on the table staring back at him.

Selina sat down next to him dropping a six pack in front of him. And a bottle of wine and a glass in her other. They were silent as she opened the bottle and poured herself a glass. Jason lifted his head to open one of the beer bottles. They each got a free sip in before Jason spoke.

“For the love of god Selina, why’d it have to be Bruce? Could it not have been some random mark you slipped on.” Jason groaned burying his head into the crook of his elbow.

“You always were so dramatic.”

“I saw grundy’s bare fucking ass today. Selina. I get to be fucking dramatic.” he ignored her chuff of amusement. As she quietly sipped her wine in his company. “I got to feel him being fucking arroused by harley scrubbing his rotten balls!” he bemoaned before chugging his bottle. Took all his self control to not slam it on the fucking table. “Do you think if i phase my head i can pour bleach directly on my brain?”

“I do not believe you have enough control yet for such a feat for one. Two you’d make my kitten sad. We don’t want a sad kitten.”

“I can’t believe collecting strays is fucking genetic and i can’t event vent or bemoan about it to fucking Dick.”

“There is always Roy.”

“He wouldn’t have the same understanding. Not like Dick.”

Selina took a another sip ans swirled her glass staring at the little whirlpool before closing her eyes. “I’m sorry Jason.”

“It’s not you’re fault. It’s not the kids fault. It’s the government.” he popped open another bottle. “And Bruce's. Fucker rants about about procedures, and contingencies, and fail safes. Paranoid bastard. Still can’t wrap his dick up right. Twice.” he threw his head back with a deep swallow. Selina watching him from the side of her vision. “Gawd there better not be anymore. I’ll shoot him in the dick myself.”

Selina had to catch herself at that. Smiling as she set down her glass. “I’d prefer if you did not.”

“Ew.”

“Is that all?”

“Please get you’re tubes tied if you fuck him again. I don’t trust he’s actually snipped properly. And he obviously doesn’t know how to use a condom. The hookers in the alley have better safe sex practices.”

“I’ll take that under advisement.” she smirked before picking up her glass again.

Jason spoke up again after few more quiet minutes. “Why can’t he make normal friends? The alley is full of kids his age. Why does he have to pick up friends in the sewers? What’s next a half dead racoon? A zombie possum.” Jason jerked up right in his seat. “Gawd you don’t think he’d try to bring home a talon do you?”

“No Jason, talons would be hostile. He’s collected a few. . . helpers.” Selina decided on. “Some of the alley kids bring Danny old parts for fixing things, like bikes, skateboards, skooters, small appliances. But its all been transactional. He tries though. I think the kids are intimidated by us. Danny thinks it’s because he’s a “freak.” he said he was referred to a freaky Fenton in amity. I think he’s just drawn to kindred souls.” Selina hummed. “Maybe when school starts. I broke a deal with penguin. I’ve got to leave town to pick up something for him, but he’ll pay Danny’s tuition so it won’t ping my accounts if Bruce or the birds are peaking.”

“That’s good. One less worry.” Jason took another drink.

Selina finished off her glass and patted Jason's leg. “Come up stairs and get some rest. I’m sure tomorrow Grundy will be happy to have a second person he can speak to.”

************

Selina went for the knife under her pillow before the hunched silhouette holding his head finally registered to her. She released it with a stretch and a pur. "Yes jason?"

"I'm one of the half dead rats he dragged home." Jason wheeled. His eyes wide and pained.

Selina smiled wide with amusement. "Well half dead flying rat."

Jason let out a pained wheezing sound throwing back his head and pulling his hair.

Selina laughed as she rolled over. "Go back to bed love."

Chapter Text

"How much am I going to regret stepping in this house?" Jason asked, pinching the bridge of his nose, just his face mask on. Helmet tucked into his red hood bike parked in the alley. He did have his hood up over his hair.

Ivy kept herself leaning casually on the door frame. Amusement flitting the edges of her lips up. Her tea cup in both hands. "Do you believe we called a family meeting just to stress you out sweetheart?"

"I think it's a genetic disposition to be a pain in my ass."

"You love them." Pam stated matter of factly. Turning to move back inside. Jason following.

"It's not clayface is it? Bastard hasn't been seen in a while."

"No, it's not gothamite." Pam said with an amused lilt. " and it showed up here. But that's not entirely why we called a meeting."

Jason walked into the living room to see Danny laying on the floor with a green puppy on him giving him kisses as he laughed. Jason felt the joy bubble across the pit over powering his annoyance. Excitement and just exuberant joy of another entity besides it. Must be the puppy’s jason thought to himself. He couldn’t help but smile. The foreign emotions settled over the pit and settled him. This was nice. This was probably one of Jason's favorite things about the kid, he didn’t get stuck in the negative emotions around him. Really hard to. Even if he let out an exasperated sigh. Because yes the kid brought home another fucking dead stray. Which he voiced.

“So found another dead stray huh kiddo?” jason said with exasperated mirth. Atleast he didn’t have his helmet on to fuck with the tone. Bud and lou chuffed and laughed nearby watching their kid closely, but not afraid of the new house guest. Harley was sitting on the kitchen counter hanging over it upside down watching danny eating a bowl of cereal upside down, because why not. And selina sat on the couch with a cup of tea.

Danny turned his attention to Jason, cujo seeing a new person jumped off danny’s chest with an oomph from the kid to come over and sniff at the other halfa who crouched down and held out his hand like a normal dog, to sniff. Danny rolled onto his stomach and perched his head on his hands. Feet up in the air. “Actually cujo is kinda my dog from amity.”

“Kinda?'' Jason pet the dog when he didn’t feel any negative emotions coming from it. A point in the plus column for those powers.

Danny gave an awkward shrug still holding his head. “Cujo is a ghost dog. He’s kind of attached to me, like a pet parent. But you can’t really contain ghost dogs or animals without the use of um ghost tech."Jason felt the flash of negative emotions from Danny before the kid covered them quickly. Jason made an effort to send safety and comfort back. He had been working on ghost speak. He got a dopey smile in return. “So cujo comes and goes as he pleases. He can actually make portals by digging through reality.” Jason's head popped up along with one eyebrow at that. Jason sent concern and he thinks, questioning along with it to danny.

“And how do ghost animals come to be?” Ivy asked from the couch next to selina. She had her legs crossed and her ankle stroking at Selina's.

“Same way as human ones.” Danny answered, pushing up to sit cross-legged on the floor holding his ankles. Strong emotions, ectoplasma, and death. Cujo was a puppy being trained to be a guard dog in amity for a security company.'' Jason felt the sadness swell over him. cujo must have felt it too, cause he left jason to climb into danny’s lap rubbing his face into the boy’s chest till he brought his arms around him in a hug. “The security company decided to modernize and move into tech based security, alarms and automatic weapons.” danny hugged cujo tighter, “they decided to trash their old inventory in the process.'' Danny said bitterly.

Jason caught ivy tightening her grip on her cup. Whelp better hope kid doesn’t name drop that one. Cause he ain’t getting between ivy and that vendetta. Hell he’d make sure she had first class transportation. If the demon brat could be involved he’d give him the tip too. Kid hates animal abusers.

“How’d cujo get here?'' Jason asked the big question. “Gotham is a bit far from amity.” Now Jason felt nervous as Danny gave a sheepish grin with a hand rubbing the back of his neck, pulling at the hair at his nape. And Jason felt his own trepidation boil up. And now he knew why they called a family meeting for this. Shit.

“Well, see cujo seems to be able to track me. And he’s sorta trained. He listens to me sometimes. Like when it’s important. Or he wants to. He listens less to others but he also can suddenly decide sure, i’ll do whatever that person asks out of the blue. Usually it’s people who know me, or close to me. But not always.'' Jason did not like where this was going. Harley was even sitting up right on the counter now kicking her feet just watching.

“Danny is concerned if cujo is showing up here suddenly, we could start to expect some ghostly guests. With little warning and an array of intent.” Selina spoke up for her son. Her free hand settled on ivy’s thigh trying to console her.

“Um they might follow cujo. Even if cujo doesn’t intend to drag them along. If they can hold on long enough and he heads to me well…?'' Danny buried both hands behind Cujo's ears to rub them.

“Right.” Jason said, plopping his ass on the ground one knee up. “And too many ghosts in one spot boosts the ecto in the area which can draw in the GIW to investigate.”

He watched danny bite his lip, and the fear, nervousness, trepidation, building. scared/worried/don’t hate me/i’m sorry coming up with the emotions. Danny’s eyes darted between everyone. Jason sent back his own calm/love/it's ok/safe/never hate you/support.

“What else kiddo? We can help more if we have more detailed and accurate information.” Jason verbalized.

“Kitten?” Selina said with the soft look of a worried mother. It suited her well, Jason thought.

“Ya got all of us in your corner brat.” Harley piped up jumping off the counter to wrap herself around danny and cujo. Arms and legs. Head resting heavily on his.

Jason felt the kid relax as he pushed a feeling of support to his little brother. “Um so, i’m actually friends with most of my old rogues, not all of them. Just the non murderous ones. A Lot are dead teenagers or kids actually. Have like a unique bond with a lot of ghosts even if we aren’t friends.” he paused. Jason watched carefully. Kid was omitting things. It was the truth but not the full truth. He was watching his words. That worried jason, but he wasn’t going to push lest the kid clam up. He wasn’t bruce. “Some of never living in the zone i’m super close with.” danny gestured between himself and jason, “you know that paternal fraid bond we accidentally set? Uh have that with a couple of ancients. Clockwork and frostbite and pandora.” Danny paused again to give cujo some more pets. The pup settling into Danny’s lap for a nap. “Ghosts, have a different culture and perception of age.” danny finally settled on eyes locked on cujo. “Older ghosts make paternal bonds with young and baby ghosts to help their cores learn how process ectoplasma for different things. Same with the fighting. It helps ghost learn how to fight, be stronger, get new powers beside the base ones. Discover their obsessions and understand them more if they are more conceptual. Less straightforward.” he leaned back into Harley's hold. Bud and lou coming up to curl on with side of the pair. “Not all ghosts, but a lot of them, more so less ancient beings, because a lot of them are so old they have forgotten what it was like to be newly corporal beings, not all, but yeah some. Are very protective over newly formed ghosts. Or baby ghosts. Even if they don’t have a fraid bond with them. I have friend and fraid bonds with a lot of ghosts. Um a good deal of which sit on the realms current government council. Including the sitting king.”

Jason felt his own dread start to build, as Danny's trepidation grew. He watched Danny take a deep breath.

“Um, I rescued some ghosts from the GIW when I was caught. That’s how I was caught.” he looked up to meet his mom’s eyes. “We, we left before any of them got a chance to see me after I was free. Not sure if they knew I was caught. I told them to go while I held the agents back. I’d done it plenty of times before. I always could get out on my own before.”

“You’ve been awol since doing a rescue operation.” Jason finished for him. Danny gave a tense nod at Jason. “Anyone in amity able to tell the ghost you’re ok?”

“Team phantom knows I got out alive, and recouped. I’m sure jazz told them my mom came and got me. But that is also all she knows since I haven't contacted them. Clockwork knows, like almost everything. So he knows I'm ok. He also knows what will happen if the council finds out what happened to me.'' Danny mumbled softly. Jason had no trouble hearing him. And Harley mouthed it back to Selina and ivy. “Frostbite is the sitting king. Some of the more malevolent ancients sit on the council.'' Danny looked up with glassy eyes. “They’d love an excuse to invade this realm. Ghosts are emotional beings. They’ll want to act on their feelings. I’ve been trying to keep them from declaring war. The laws, the GIW. It’s considered an act of war. I’ve pushed back that i can handle it, and me and friends just needed time to get rid of them.'' Danny gave a humorless laugh. “Luckily ghosts have a shitty sense of time being timeless beings. They had captured ghosts before, but I got to them in time. So nobody did anything crazy.”

Jason grabbed his head with both hands rubbing his five o'clock shadow roughly. “ok , to clarify for everyone,'' Jason said after pulling away his hands. “We have an unspecified timeline to rectify this situation or at least show we are making some headway. And that timer started with cujo popping up. To stop an interdimensional war, that the u.s. Government decided to start.”

“Basically yeah.”

“That is some extra deep shit there kiddo.'' Harley said unhelpfully. And Danny's anxiety skyrocketed, nearly overwhelming Jason. He was on his feet quicker than dodging a speedster. He had Harley, Danny and Cujo in his arms before Selina and Ivy could get off the couch. The ghost dog whined unhelpfully. “Whoa, easy there big boy!'' Harley giggled. Ivy and Selina cleared room on the couch for him to sit down between them. He got Harley faced out away from him with Danny and Cujo still in her lap and Selina and Ivy crowded in close in a nice big group hug. Bud and Lou even come over to relay themselves at the group's feet.

Jason sent all his focus into trying to calm Danny down. He didn’t speak, just trying to project calm and safety to his baby brother. Who had way more shit on his plate then he let on. Holy fuck, he was going to spend his entire night on the coms with Roy. “Selina, can you text Frank and Marco? Let my guys know I'm not patrolling tonight.” she nodded, pulling out her phone.

“Danny, sweetheart breathe.” Ivy said softly. Patting the shaking boy, tears dripping down his face. “Even if you don’t need to.” she moved his hand to her own chest. Harley curled one of hers over his free hand and kept petting at Cujo. Selina had her hand gently squeezing his leg trying to match the breathing pattern ivy was doing.

“I’m sorry, I was trying.” Danny hiccuped out. “I don’t want war between my homes. I was trying so hard.”

“Sssshhhhh.” Selina cooed, leaning over them to push her head next to her son’s kissing his temple. Harley tipping her head to hers too. “You’ve been so strong and brave baby. You don’t need to hold two worlds on your shoulders. That’s too much for someone so young. We are here to help you. You let us handle this. Everything is going to be ok.”

“We got you kiddo.” Jason squeezed his arms around Harley and danny.

“Yeah gotta punt ya little apple far far way from your tree.'' Harley spoke softly but with a wide grin.

“Wha…” Danny asked, confused. Jason snorted. He could feel the confusion start to push down Danny's anxiety a bit along with the comfort.

“Harls.” Ivy scolded. “Ignore her sweetheart. We are all here for you. You’ll never face things alone.”

Chapter Text

“I know you are there, step out of the shadows or I will be forced to attack.” Robin said clearly. His eyes trained on a window ledge just below his perch on a gargoyle. Hand on the hilt of his sword.

"Man, how did you know? I was like super careful to be sneaky." Schrodinger whined as he slowly came into view from nothing. His posture flopped over the edge dramatically.

"I am a trained assassin since birth." Robin stated matter of factly. "I will not be an easy target."

"That sounds rough buddy." Schrodinger swung his leg loosely in the air.

"What are your intentions?" Robin ignored the comment.

Danny shrugged. "Bored. I got booted. They've decided it's too dangerous with some of the assholes in white showing up now." He looked up to meet Robin's eye. "If Batman's not about to show up, was kinda hoping I could tail you around and watch how you do the whole. "He waved a hand towards Robin. "Hero thing. Compare notes, to when I kinda did the same thing. If you're willing and won't sell me out to the big boss bat."

"If you are uncomfortable with Batman due to your meta status, you should know there seems to be a large misconception on his stance on metas in gotham." Robin offered. "Batman works with metas and aliens regularly, he holds no animosity towards them. He fears for the safety of metas who flaunt their status. Many would take advantage of them for power in gotham. Or risk trafficking." Robin had a feeling the other boy was rolling his eyes at him. "However if you are interested in being a hero we can get you in contact with a member of the Justice league who.."

Danny cut him off with a snarl, teeth fanged and sharp, eyes glowing green through the whites of his mask. He looked ready to pounce off the window. "The league can go fuck its self with a rusty spoon.” damian recognized that color green and the anger reminded him of Todd's outburst. He tightened his grip on his sword. However, I was surprised as the catboy took in a deep breathe clenching his fist and the green died down. Before he leveled a calmer glare on robin. “I want nothing to do with any of those useless stuck up idiots. I’m not…” the kid punched the brick causing it to crack a little. “Look, can I just hang out with you on your patrol? I won’t interfere with your thing. I try not to fight humans unless I really need to. I’m not looking for training.” Danny sagged limply on the building. “I just, you’re kinda like me. A kid hero. even if like the types of issues were different. We protected people. Me and my friends, we had to figure it out on our own. It was just us. But I'd like to just tail you and see if we had the concepts down you? Drawing off movies and comics only gets you so far.” Danny shrugged. “If i can ever talk to them again maybe i can relay if we were comparable to at least another kid vigilante.”

Robin watched Selina's apprentice with great attention. Even this small interaction was going to allow much information to be added to Schrodinger's file. Most of it added more questions than answers. But it was information he could add to the case. If he allowed this chatterbox to accompany him. Father would be displeased at the disregard for protocol. But Batman was very focused on this particular unknown meta. And aiding in his endeavor might give him some leniency. Or atleast bragging rights over his siblings. “I am older than you.” Damian stated dryly. “I have also been robin since I was 10. I also have had extensive training and tutelage under Batman and other great masters of their fields.”

“You got to be kitten me? Are you bragging right now?” Schrodinger asked in disbelief with a scowl.

“No, I'm stating facts. You wished to compare yourself to me. I’m informing you that for comparison it may not be a fair assessment.”

Schrodinger stared at him for a long minute. “Is that a long winded way of saying apples and oranges?”

“Nightwing has used that phrase before. It’s a more simplistic metaphor but adequate i suppose to this situation yes.”

“How old are you?” Schrodinger had his nose scrunched up and mouth held and old tilt.

“I will be turning 15 soon.”

“You’re not that much older than me. I’m turning 14 soonish. And I started doing the hero thing when I was 11. So there.”

“Without training.”

“Details, I learned on the fly. Still do a lot.'' Danny flapped his hand at him. “So can I follow you? Or do I need to find something else to do tonight?”

“I could be amenable to it. Should you follow my direction and not interfere as I work. Observation only.'' Damian gave a short nod at the kitty boy as his face brightened into a smile. So did the glow around his mask.

“Deal. unless i think you’re at risk of being seriously hurt. I have poor impulse control. I'm told if I think people could die." Danny informed as he climbed to his feet and jumped up to the area where robin was.

“I do not foresee that to be an issue. But thank you for your honesty. If Batman informs me he is planning to meet at my location I will pass that information along. However there is nothing I can do if he just shows up.”

“Fair.”

“Would you be amenable to wearing one of my extra coms? It will make communication in the field easier. It seems your own are not on oracle’s systems nor has she been able to gain access. Despite hood and the siren’s usually allowing her to run theirs.”

“I can’t. My whole thing, makes them not work without mods. And can’t mod yours for lot’s of reasons." Danny shrugged. “Same reason I can't give you one of mine. If I had to split quickly I couldn’t get it back. Too dangerous.”

“You fear us getting a hold of your tech.” Damian noted out loud.

“Aren’t you scared of outsiders getting yours?”

“Who we know are your known associates, and who we presume to be, are normally already on our systems and have access to our tech. It is not a great risk. There is much benefit actually to having you within our communication network." Robin clarified.

“I’m sorry. I can’t take the risk of Batman or the league getting their hands on it. What is available to them is bad enough. This would put people i care about that i can’t get a hold of to warn or ask permission at to much risk. It’d be really risky to you too." Schrodinger scuffed his toe on the ground. “Is that a deal breaker?”

“It is not. Has catwoman or hood taught you our hand signals for the field?”

“Uh, I know, shut up.” Danny made the signal. “Hood uses it alot.” Damian grinned at the sign for stealth. But did not correct his new pupil. “And get the fuck out.” Danny made another gesture. Which Damian noted was retreat. “And mom taught me these.”

Damian made sure to note out loud the term for each signal. “Circle around, hold position, converge, attack, enter. I do not know what is it’s meaning.”

“Uh basically no holds bar. It’s for emergencies. Means ignore all other rules and go broke. Not used it yet.”

“You have increased strength. I assume that is so you know not to hold back on an enemy.'' Damian looked smudged, as Schrodinger bulked, taking a half step back from that. “That jump you did wouldn’t have been successful if you didn’t have a higher than normal human strength. I have worked extensively with the youngest superboy. It is easy to note.”

“I also know like regular asl.” Danny helpfully added.

“That is good, however you may need to infer some. It is rare to have access to both hands in the field. And it is more noticeable and more likely to be picked up by enemies. But we can use it to teach you more of our own signs.” Damian noted. He removed his grapple. “We will begin patrol. Can you follow quickly on your own?”
“I can keep up if I can hold your cape.” Danny said with a sheepish grin and hand on the back of his head.

“That would throw off balance and create an unsuitable shift for quick movements. That I am not trained to correct for. Also if you lose your grip it could mean serious injury at the least.”

“I promise you won’t even notice I'm there. Barely a tug. It can be higher up if it helps?” Schrodinger looked in thought for a minute, biting his lip nervously before speaking again. “I can show you, but um our secret?” Schrodinger held out a pinky towards robin. The boy seemed to scowl at it, but he understood the meaning, as Richard often utilized it often when he was younger. Damain hooked his own around Schrodinger's. And was met with a too broad grin of too sharp teeth but didn’t feel threatening.

Schrodinger took a fist full of the edge of robin's cape near his elbow and lifted his feet off the ground, seemingly sitting cross legged in midair. Robin moved a half step to the side and Schrodinger followed. He was correct that the weight and pull wasn’t much more than that of a balloon on a string. “You can fly.” Robin stated bluntly.

“This is floating. We call it balloon mode.” Schrodinger corrected with a grin.

Damian recognized Grayson's favored deflection method. Most likely he could fly, and was trying to hide it. Fine, he didn’t have to worry about the boy dying if he let go, nor losing him. However there is concern in why he is hiding his flight abilities, or how many others he is hiding and why hide some but not all his meta abilities? “Very well. This is acceptable. Do not release your grip till I have stopped at a new position.”

“You got it.” Schrodinger said cheerily. As robin led them off to the next rooftop on patrol.

*******************

Robin was impressed. Schrdoinger did well to follow most of his orders. He would do jump scares on criminals who’d try to run while robin dealt with the more arrogant ones who thought they could take him. It was often enough of a stumble and delay for robin to finish off his target before apprehending whoever schrodinger startled with his abilities. But as requested he did not make physical contact with any of the criminals they came upon and left all the fighting to him. Which is better than any of his siblings would have done.

“You’re pretty good at this.” Schrodinger complemented.

Damian scoffed. “naturally. “

Danny gave him toothy side smirk. “Humble too.” he laughed. “You don’t get a lot either.”

“I take it you took many hits while being a hero before?” Damian said, tying up the gang members while Schrodinger dragged them all into a group for ease.

Schrodinger shrugged. “Dodging was saved for running and escaping. I mean I tried while fighting my rogues but it was hard at first. More focused on making an attack hit then dodging. I got better with time. A Lot of my rogue attacks were also less worrisome than from people i couldn’t fight.'' Schrodinger shrugged. “Most of my rogues weren’t going to kill me. Hurt yeah, but meh we can heal. Collateral damage was a bigger concern. I always got blamed for it. So if I took it hit, it was less likely to put a hole in a building or a crater in the road.”

Robin made sure to make a mental note of being able to survive an attack that could crater a road. That was going into the top of the additions he made to schrodinger's file. “What of the ones you could not fight? What made them different from your rogues?”

Schrodinger shrugged, biting his lip as he shuffled as Robin finished the last tie. “They wanted to do worse than kill me. And I didn't heal as well from their attacks.” he finally got out softly. Eyes staring off past robin it seemed before they focused on him too. “They’d go after my rogues too. I’d only fight them if I had to save the others. If they get better tech, they’ll go after people like you too. And other people I care about. But I don't… I couldn't fight them, and now they are getting more dangerous.”

Robin watched the cat boy closely. “Your decision to observe was also to catalog my ability to keep myself safe from the dangers you have experienced. Not to judge against your own abilities.” Robin noted out loud.

“I mean, both, both is good.” Schrodinger replied sheepishly. Before poorly replicating a move robin had done one of the criminals they had just apprehended. The boy at least landed on his feet, even if the position would leave him open and easily toppled due to foot placement. But it was from only just seeing it. There was potential. Damian pouted, a bit at the thought as it over layed with his siblings teases of a new sibling. He would have to assist hood and catwoman at keeping distance between father and this boy.

“Would you be willing to share information on this potential threat?” Robin questioned as he flung out his cape for the other boy to grab before they grappled off.

“I mean you could ask Batman about the guys in white.” Schrodinger bit out. “Or the justice league.” even robin could hear the sarcasm dripping off the word justice. “I’m hoping they don’t know you and hood are at risk. Hood kinda just learned about it when I dropped in on him. But uncle hood says Batman is an arrogant hypocrite, who probably thinks he can protect people he cares about from shit he screws up about. I don’t know. Aunt Harley and Ivy and mom and uncle hood argue all the time with uncle hood friends after they think i’m in bed. On if we got screwed over because they just don’t give a shit about us because they believe the garbage the guys in white spew, or if they are actively supporting them, but keeping up an image by being hands off.” schrodinger sneered “genocide looks bad even if you don’t consider those you are doing it to worthy of humanity. Even if they can’t spin it so well to everyone to not take a PR hit to some point.”

Robin’s landing at that note on the next roof was not as smooth as he hoped. He whipped around to face Schrodinger head on. “You all believe batman and the justice are supporting genocide?” Robin spat. “That notion is preposterous! Father would never support such nonsense!” his fists raised in righteous fury. “Hood is falling into paranoia if he believes as much!”

Schrdoninger put space between him and robin. “Uncle hood and arsenal are on the fence. To be honest, Harley tries to defend Batman and someone named canary. Uncle croc kind of agrees with her on Batman, but thinks the league is sneaking behind his back. Aunt Ivy and mom say the evidence so far is damning. Oracle lying about helping us didn’t really help their opinion. But they’ll figure it out eventually.” Schrodinger shuffled a bit more. “Either way. I’ve been going through some of the data on their blueprints. It’s not perfect yet. And I'm not sure it’s even had a prototype built. But they are working on making the scanners more sensitive. And if they do. You are in danger robin. And I'm not sure if your family will support you. I want them to. You have no idea how much I want your family to accept and support you.” Schrodinger implored. “I lost my first family, my first life with it came out.” he glanced away before shaking his head. “I love my new family. My new life here in gotham. I hate to say it but it’s better here. Despite everything, but part of me will always mourn how much I lost. And haven’t been able to get back. Not sure when I will. I don’t want that to happen to you. But if it does, you have us. I will save you if they ever capture you, we’ll protect you.”

“I do not require your protection!” robins snarled. “Father would never betray me.”

“Good. I hope you’re right. So much robin.'' Schrodinger seemed to deflate there. While robin calmed himself. Taking in what Selina's protege relayed to him. He was definitely going to get off lightly for taking the cat boy along with him on patrol. This wild misinformation hood, the sirens and outlaws had was going to shed so much light on their odd behavior. “Please just be safe. They will kill you permanently if they get a hold of you.”

“What makes you believe I will be a target of these guys in white as you call them?” damain finally addressed.

Schrodinger tilted his head to the side much like animal sona, “you’re liminal too.” he titled his head the other way, as robin just glared him down. “They hunt the dead, or those touched strongly by it. I feel it in you. Not like me and hood or uncle grundy. But you died too.”

Robin would deny it vehemently if called out on it. But he flinched at Schrodinger's words.

“Right now, their tech can identify and track people, like me and hood and grundy. But yours is as strong as my sisters and friends. You’ll be next. And they don’t question their tech. You won’t be seen as human anymore when they do. And they are close. They’ve been picking up shades and blob ghosts. It’s dangerous. Please just be careful.” Schrodinger chewed his lip again, before speaking once more quietly. “If, if Batman doesn’t know what me and hood are. I doubt it, i mean he’s fucking batman,” he let out a sigh. “But if he really doesn’t, please don’t tell him. He’s hood’s dad too. And I don't want them to fight if Batman is trying to end me. If he’s willing to at least protect his family members. I don’t … I know Hood's mad at his dad, but if Batman loves him enough to protect him, even if he tries to end me. I want uncle hood safe.”

Robin scrunched his face in thought for a moment before extending his own pinky like the other had done earlier. “I will not tell father for the moment that you and hood are alike in such a way. But your glowing eyes like his are a dead giveaway. And a cause for concern, and inquiry. But not extermination as you believe." Robin steeled himself as the smaller cat boy hooked his own pinky with a shy smile. “However, Batman will not hear from me.”

“Thanks robin.” Schrodinger grinned. “You’re actually really cool. I don’t know why hood calls you a demon, or thinks you’re dangerous for me to hang around. You’re way nicer than nightwing or red robin.”

Damian puffed up at the praise. “Of course I am the greatest robin to grace the mantle.”

Robin tensed though at the same time Schrodinger did his shoulders hunching to his ears. And panic gracing his face. “Oh shit what time is it?” he made a noise like a squeak. “No, hood I'm fine. I just lost track of time.” he started to pace and robin loosened his stance and watched the kitty boy as his hands moved with his words as he spoke over his com. “I’m fine. I didn’t get into any trouble. I am not in trouble. I am so sorry.” he threw his head back with a whine. “You already know I'm not in the alley. Uh… I have no idea where I'm actually at.” Robin scowled at that comment. “I can get back. Not sure how long it will take me. But I can make it back fine. By bedtime is … probably. I’m so sorry.” Schrodinger seemed genuinely upset making himself smaller at whatever scolding he was getting.

Robin stepped close to broadcast his words over schrodinger's com. “Hood it is my fault for intercepting and holding Schrodinger's attention. We are at the bowery. And he will be returning to your turf post haste." Robin pointed in the direction of the crime alley.

“I know how to get there. I can hone pigeons to hood." Schrodinger pouted. “This is just a big city. And I haven't been here long.”

Before robin could respond his com was over ridden. “The hell did you do to the kid demon brat?!”

Schrodinger was rolling his eyes. Robin would swear on it. “He didn’t do anything!” “I have not harmed him.” the boys said at the same time.

“We just hung out.”

“I allowed him to follow me on patrol. Catwoman's protege follows commands better than the rest of you fools in the field.”

Hood got quiet for a moment before robin winced as he yelled into his ear, ignoring the others over the com. “You’ve got to be fucking kidding me!?”

“I’m really sorry. I didn’t mean to stay out past curfew.” Schrodinger pouted over the coms again.

“Why do you care about an imposed curfew by hood?” Robin scoffed.

“I don’t want him to worry about me. I’ve never had an adult worry about me before. I don’t want him to regret it.” Schrodinger said softly.

“I’m only going to regret letting you leave the alley cause you’re hanging out with a fucking bat. Get home. I’m not going to stop caring about you kid.”

“He’s a bird not a bat. You said I could hassle the birds, as long as they don’t have that tech on them.”

“Except robin. You’re going to get stabbed. Get home now. So I can check you over and send ya to bed.”

Robin scoffed again with a scowl. “I did not bug or place a tracker on him hood. Nor do I have a reason to stab him.”

“Why not?!” red robin was heard over the com. Which got a scowl from schrodinger.

“I’ll see about that.” hood scoffed. “Home kiddo. Now.”

Schrdoigner waved at robin. “Bye, thanks for hanging out with me.” and with that schrodinger disappeared from view.

Robin scowled as his com continued to blow up with his family comments, before turning them off manually again. His scowl deepened as Batman landed next to him. “I am a fine father.”

“You took an unknown into the field with you.” Batman scolded.

“And everything was fine. He was an observer. And did not hinder me once." Robin sniffed. “He was also attentive to instruction, and allowed me to gather intel rather passively.” Robin glared up at his father. “He chatters worse than nightwing and spoiler.”

“What did you discover?” Batman asked. Robin picked up the tone of approval.

“You will see it in my report when I finish it.” Robin stated getting his grapple gun, as he mentally arranged the information for later. “For now I have a patrol to finish.” and then robin left batman behind.

Chapter Text

Danny made sure the music started playing at the far end of the warehouse away from the kennels full of kids and teens where his double sat silhouetted by the window behind him. Eyes and teeth glowing to backlight his face more. Really helped the creepy factor as his double sang along with the song.

He had already called Jason on his special ecto infused com he'd built. Luckily Jason knew more coding than him so they had been able to get one wired into his helmet and sync his families units to process through one of hoods hidden and protected servers. That he had also had to ecto infuse. But hey now it ran on ghost speak and not even the bats hacker could get into it.

Once most of the traffickers had some distance from the kennels, he brought forth his ice right on the fencing. Making sure he didn't catch any of the kids on it. And built it up thick as a shield. Technically against his mom’s rules, but less damning than a ghost shield.

He turned visible as he picked up the song at the same time he dispersed his double to reabsorb. He completely ignored talking besides singing the lyrics as he danced around intangibly around the traffickers taunting them with his staff. All while spreading an ice tube from where the kennels were incase to the wall. Only going tangible enough to push the goons out of the way of his tunnel.

Oh and before he forgot, Danny made a show of hitting the doors with ice from his staff like Jack Frost from Rise of the guardians. Now there is an idea…. Harley will appreciate it.

As the song came to an end Danny smiled wider. "Lets take it from the top all together now, I'm sure most of you know it well. Seems to be your motto." He restarted the song on more speakers. "I know red hood is gonna be ecatatic when he gets here. He's been in such a mood. Thanks for volunteering to be his stress relief."

He didn't even look up at the sound of shattering glass from one of the windows. "The fuck kid" Hood actually laughed. It sounded like a horror sound track through the modulator.

Danny picked up singing the chorus again loudly. Spinning in a circle, the staff extended like yes my handy work. He stopped and stood proudly in the middle of the pissed of traffickers. "I aim to pawlease uncle good" he took a bow and as his head came up he had a gun in face. He grinned past his ears, splitting his head with fully sharp teeth and glowing green eyes. Before taking a bite out of the pistol in his face the same time the idiot fired. The crushed barrel caused it to explode in the guy's hand. Oh well. Hood was probably going to crush it anyway. He chewed and swallowed the part had in his mouth before turning to eye the others with death wishes and snapped his teeth at them laughing as some of them flinched away.

"Get you mangy cat. get the kids outside. I got this trash." Hood had already started taking shots at the traffickers.

Danny gave him a salute with two fingers before fading from view to phase unseen into his ice shield. He crushed down the walls between the kennels and raised the walls to the ceiling making them thicker to block out the sounds on the other side. He could hear Hood singing along though on the com, so he set the song on loop. Before he turned his attention back on the kids huddling around in loose groups.

"Hello everyone, if I could have your attention pawlease. My name is Schrodinger, your neighborhood feline fur-rend."some of the kids gave nervous chuckles but a few laughs could be heard too. Good. He tilted his staff and jumped up onto the end of it perched on a 60 degree tilt. Gave him plenty of height so even the back of the crowd could see him. "Clawsome. Thank meow. So I would like everyone to walk up this way towards this exterior wall. If you can't walk. Don't worry I will come get you. I'm going to make a hole to the lot outside. Once it's open I'm going to make another ice wall outside in case more bad people are coming to help these rats. Once everyone is in there I'm gonna seal us off from the building again. Does everyone understand?" Some confusion he repeats again in Spanish and Portuguese. That got more faces on him good.

The group moved towards the wall. He encased it with his ice and crushed it down like the fencing as he reasorbed his ice. Making the horseshoe outside at the same time. Only 2 people couldn't walk thankful and he got them out in one go by negating gravity on them to float them out. Second rule broken. He was gonna be grounded after this one. Once everyone was out he sealed up the building.

"Ok, next order of business, we are gonna split up the group. Anyone who wants to stay and wait for the cops on the left please. Anyone who wants to be whiskered away to find their own way home or have red hood's gang help you find a place on the right." Danny made sure to repeat it in the other languages again. And then asking the two injured what they wanted to do. One had a stab wound. The other a broken leg. Older teens Danny noticed. Danny stuck his head through the ice. There was still shooting in the warehouse but a lot less than before. And a few vans pulled up. He waved as Marco and Frankie jumped out of the lead one.

Danny double checked with hood that he had called them before opening the wall and explained who the men were and that they were there to help anyone who didn't want to wait for the cops. Nightwing landed just where the wall had been brought down.

"Hey there, alley kitten." He had his hands up placating. "Hood called and asked me to come help with the other kids."

"Uh, hood? There's…"

"Nightwing is taking over. Get home before the cops show up. scram."

"I guess he did. Uh. Not everyone speaks English, Spanish and Portuguese." Danny let Nightwing know. Before turning back to those who wanted to wait for help. "This is Nightwing, he's here to help you. A real Gotham hero. He's going to wait with you till the cops show up. At some point." He repeated it again in the other 2 languages.

"I'm impressed, good job, you're tamer than I thought." Nightwing praised. Going to pat the kid on the shoulder but he dodged it moving behind his reach.

"I know I'm clawesome, but I gotta scram. Two people there need medical. One's got a broken leg. The other was stabbed in the hip. You got first aid?"

"Don't worry kitty, it's not my first cat-show. Go." Nightwing shooed him away before approaching the group. The rest of the ice disappeared with schrodinger.

Chapter Text

“Come on guys, don’t be shy.'' Jason called behind him to waylon and grundy. The two hulking men. He sneered at those gawking at croc and grundy as they walked down the street with him. Many parted for him as red hood’s right hand man. Even more jumped off the sidewalk or pushed into closed and darkened storefront doorways. Jason met Grundy's trepidation with his own encouragement. Croc made hisses and growls at anyone he thought was pushing their luck. Even without ghost speak Jason knew Waylon was nervous being top side with so many people. Danny and Harley had even found a shirt for Waylon, so he was dressed to go out tonight.

Jason kept his pace easy for Grundy as he came up to the doors of crime alley’s Way Out Bar. half the front door propped open. One of the few places with working double french doors. Jason popped the top and bottom pins as he came in. and shoved it open to match the other dropping its prop. He waved at the owner, sloan from the middle of the doorway, a few curious people looking over. However, several got out of their seats when grundy and croc came up behind him. Jason just rolled his eyes. “This way.” Jason waved the two inside to follow him to the back side of the bar near the wall. It would be harder for someone to come up behind them and allow a clear view of the rest of the bar and entrance. But the most important part was the 2 special stools that were brought in by red hood’s gang. Built by his mechanics. Grundy saw the seats and took his seat immediately. Croc gave it a surprised look, tapping a claw to it while Jason sat on the regular stool between them. “Waylon, it’s not a toothpick. Just sit down.'' Grundy was at least pleased. And enjoying himself. Poor guy probably hasn’t sat in a bar in a century or more. He was sitting all prim and proper. Reminded Jason of Alfred a bit. Waylon was very cautious taking his seat but settled in, eyes flicking across the front of the bar.

Jason let out a heavy sigh, craning his head back to look at croc. “Croc my man, no one is dumb enough to fuck with you, extra so no one is dumb enough to fuck with you when you are with me. Relax. This is supposed to be fun.”

“I’m just watching for trouble.” Waylon replied, looking over at grundy. Before looking back down at jason. “What if someone calls the cops? Or fucking batman shows up? I don’t want to go back to prison.”

Jason snorted at that, “ok nobody in the alley is calling the cops. Besides, it's after 10 they won’t come to this part of town anyway. They don’t want to end up dead. And Batman is not welcome in red hood’s turf. And he doesn’t appreciate being shot out, and can’t be bother to face his own fuck ups. He ain’t coming here either. Just relax and order a fucking drink.'' Jason waved down sloan. He wasn’t having either of the other guys make him a drink. “Grundy what do you want?”

delight/joy/nostalg came across from the zombie. As he pointed at name on one of the cardboard menu cards that showed the basic options they had the price points for some minor mixed drinks. Though it was mostly a beer and shots place. Sloan could make a few things. Jason leaned over to see what he pointed at. “Grundy my man. That’s a soda, it is not going to taste like how you remember it. The fda doesn’t let put cocaine in that shit anymore.” grundy rumbled in response. “No you can have whatever. But get an actual adult beverage please.” he pulled a thermos from his jacket pocket. “I even got the little kick that will make me and you able to feel it. Courtesy of the kid. though, now Ivy and Selina are checking their stash levels every week.”

“You think Danny's sneaking alcohol?” croc asked concerned.

“Not from his face. He said it was done as an experiment. And he found it gross. But he was 11. Who knows once he’s in highschool it might change and be a concern." Jason replied with a shrug.

“What’ll be?” Sloan asked, looking between the 3.

“Whiskey double on the rocks.” Jason ordered. He jutted a thumb at grundy. “He wants a dr. pepper.” Jason looked back at Grundy who gave another short rumble. “No ice. Seriously grundy? You know what get him an old fashioned too." Grundy patted the bar counter and it creaked as he grumbled again. “You are old to, it’s perfect for you. Waylon order something.”

“Uh, can I get a strawberry daiquiri please.” croc order politely.

Sloan just raised an eyebrow at croc and gave a nod before leaving to make their drinks. Calling out a bar back to get the blender set up. He was back quickly with jason’s and grundy soda. In a plastic pitcher. The zombie made a very pleased noise at his first sip. Happiness flitting across to Jason who just chuffed. Adding a shot of ecto to his drink and giving it a stir. Grundy’s old fashioned sat in front of him in a chilled glass beer mug. Jason gave Sloan a slight approval nod and poured some of the ecto into Grundy's drink.

“Actually try it, please grundy.” Jason said then waited for Waylon to get his. Also served in and portion sized in a plastic pitcher. “so … a fruity cocktail kinda guy…”

“The stuff tastes like shit. You gotta cover it with some good.” croc snipped back taking up his cup to drink. “I’m secure in my masculinity.”

Jason gave an amused chuff. "God I hope so or there is no hope for the rest of us."

Croc gave a light chuckle of his own, sounding much like his name sake. "You and hood went way out of your way just to take us out for drinks." Croc swished his tail. Jason elbowed grundy for the amusement bubbling over to him. "Seems like a lot of work for a little outing" he lifted his drink again.

"Damn gonna call me out before we finish our first drinks." Jason said with amusement. "Didn’t seem worth it to offer you two a paying job if you didn't have places you could go and spend your money."

"Look, not to be rude, I appreciate this and the ladies and kid treating us kindly. But I wanted out of the crime life. I just want to try and have the most normal life I can get and just be without having to look over my shoulder constantly." Grundy hummed his affirmation at that. Peace/peace/safe coming with it.

"I mean would you be on the gang payroll, yes, I can't really help that. You need under the table work anyway. Neither of you is walking into a bank to get an account." Jason spun his cup on the counter. "But it wouldn't be outright criminal work." He took a sip of his drink. "I've been trying to find you for a while waylon. To offer you work. Help you start your life over. I owe you that. For what you did for roy." He barely side glanced at croc who narrowed his eyes at him a bit in thought.

"Harper?" Croc asked, shocked.

"Yeah, he's my best friend." Jason said with a bit of melancholy He felt grundy push at the edges but he ignored him. "You were there for him, when those who should have supported him cared for him dropped him like a deuce."

"That… that was nothing…" croc started blushing if he had thinner skin to see it. But he felt his cheeks warm.

"It was everything croc. You saved him. For me, his daughter, our friends." Jason stared into the man next to hims eyes. "It means everything to us. And I owe you more than I could ever repay you." Jason spoke with conviction and sincerity. "The least I can offer you is a new start like you did for him." He gave a glance to Grundy and raised his glass to him in a cheer. "And like the brat says, us not so dead guys gotta stick together."

Amusement flitted across along with tentative curiosity. Jason snorted at that. "Alright yeah guess you'd want to know what I'm asking of you before you agree."

Croc looked over at Grundy then back to jason. "Nothing criminal?"

"Well it's definitely a federal crime. But morally it's not even fucking grey. It's as white as a fresh sheet of paper straight out the machine." Jason said ruefully. "But if all goes well you wouldn't have to get your hands dirty. The biggest drawback is the stress."

"You are still being to vague man. Sounding like the boys could across the bay." Croc said, rolling his eyes as he sipped his drink again..nearly choking at Jason words.

"Danny needs a babysitter."

"Very funny. You said it was a crime. Last time I checked, child minding isn't illegal."

"It is with danny. Federal crime was putting it lightly. It's classified as treason to not hand him over to the feds for torture and experimention. An executable offense." Jason tossed two large rugged slider large button phones on the bar. "It's an on-call job. And the responsibilities double once we find his little clone sister." He heard grundy’s glass crunch. Not the plastic.

Croc had a rumbling growl building in his throat. "I'm sorry the government has a hit out on that little ball of kindness? Hes a fucking kid"

"A hit would be nicer." Jason drolled. "We're not considered human anymore. Grundy too Below animals…"

"Those meta rights act…"

"Is a joke, you know it, I know it. You've lived it. Besides, we are classified outside of it. They've gotten hold of the kid once already. Cut him open alive and alert like a highschool frog. I'm asking…"

"Holy shit you don't even have to ask!" Croc looked at his drink then at jason. "You need to buy a whole 5th for this thing. I can't believe…" croc had his head in his hands. "Holy fucking shit. That poor kid."

Protect/anger/retribution came with Grundy's own grumbles.

"Are you…"

"Fuck yeah we are dealing with it. It's why we need a sitter. We have an unknown time table to get this handled, or we will have even bigger problems. They aren't based just around here. It's all across the states. Working with Roy too. We might have to leave short notice." Jason waved Sloan over to get croc his 5th. And a new old fashion for grundy. He didn't let Sloan clean the mess just yet. Making sure the ectoplasma vaped off first. "And there are dangers still here for him. Besides the feds. He's gonna start highschool after summer break ends. He's not ecstatic about it either."

"So like just regular gotham b.s.? Cause you do know the kiddo deadlifted me and grundy like it was nothing right?"

"Batman. Kid has to be kept out of batman's hands."

That got both towering men to turn in their seats and look down at him like he grew a second head. Jason chuffed. "I'll explain more later."

"If you say Batman is hunting Danny for the government I'll come out of retirement to rip his arms off. That seems out of character but I don't know the guy that well."

"We aren't sure yet. But you'd have to get in line if he is. But he's not stopping them either. Which is as condemnable in my eyes." He took another sip of his drink. "The phones are something Danny built. They work anywhere. No plan, no worries, not trackable. Might be unhackable. Haven't been able to test that yet. Text, internet, the works. Preprogrammed with everyone's numbers. Feel free to add whoever, use as you would a personal phone. "

Both men picked up their phones. Drinking in companionable silence.

**************

"Ello"

"You fucking asshole! You didn't tell me he fucking goes out of his way to antagonize the bats!" He heard Danny laughing through the phone. And his amusement through their bond, though distant.

Jason didn’t bother hiding his smile with his helmet on. Setting his explosives timer before patting the hack scientist he had restrained with the bomb attached to him. Enjoying the bastards whimpering. He and Selina recognized him from Danny's video. To bad that demotion and relocation dropped him right into their arms. Oh well sucks to be him. “He does that sometimes.”

"He says you told him to do it!"

"No, I said he could." Jason corrected. " not direct instruction. What was it?"

"He pink glitter bombed the batmobile!"

And Jason lost it. He modulator making a cartoon villain laugh for the GIW funky about to die. Dude definitely pissed himself crying and blubbering in his gag.

"It's not funny! He's chasing us. He got one of the birds on a bike too who is also on us."

"Eh you'll be fine. Cardio is good for ya. Call cujo when you get cornered." And he hung up before croc could protest more.

"How are they?" Catwoman purred at him taking a step on the guy's leg oooph that dislocated a hip.

"Fine. Being a good little distraction and giving his babysitter a heart attack. They glitter bombed Dickwing and replacement."

Selina chuckled at that. "Glad they are having fun. But let's not overstay our own welcome. We have what we need from here." She trailed her hand up his arm and to his shoulder giving it a squeeze before she headed out.

Red hood pulled his gun out taking a second to debate, before shooting the guy in the knee cap. He could suffer till the bomb went off. He didn't answer Danny's pleas for mercy. He wouldn’t end his suffering quick either. With that Red Hood followed Selina out. Leaving the sad waste of an education wailing in pain waiting for his end.

Chapter Text

“Oswald would like to meet Danny. Before going through with the deal.”

“Why?” Jason asked, annoyed.

“Because the man is curious. And likes to stick his nose in everything.”

“So we need to come up with a new…”

“No, I'm asking if you want to go with Jason.”

Jason scowled at Selina.

“I know you understand networking Jason. It's not just for the rich upper class, to schmooze business deals and insider trading. You are a crime lord.”

“My gang is not the same as fucking penguins. We are in two completely different leagues.”

“Which is why networking would be good for you. You both aren’t likely to step on each other's toes but could use some fingers stretched out in case a need ever arises in their other areas of expertise. Ozzy is mostly dealing in information these days. Not exclusively, but it is his biggest market."

"And loan sharking, and brokering for snooty rich people who want to find people to do their dirty work. Yes I know."

"Happy to know you keep up on the greater Gotham gossip."

Jason rolled his eyes at her. "I don't think he should meet Danny. That, that is potentially dangerous."

"Life is potentially dangerous, more so here generally. Danny is good at making friends. Friends help you survive here. I think you know that better than anyone."

"It is one more person who has seen his face and Bruce's and Damian's. Bruce has gone to the iceberg lounge. And penguin has gotten his fingertips into the upper crust life like he always wanted. He also isn't stupid. He'll see the resemblance."

"Yes and Oswald knows the value of information he isn't about to let the cat out of the bag at first chance."

"He will for a price. Because it is his business."

"He just needs incentive to keep it off the market."

Jason glared at her. "You bartering with me, my gang, or am I the threat?"

"Let's just toss it all in." She turned both hands out palms up, fingers spread wide.

"What are you stealing for Danny's tuition?"

"He is rather upset at a gentleman in Poland who will not sell him some of his bird themed artwork. I'm taking care of it."

"Typical." Jason rolled his eyes going back to preparing dinner. Harley and Ivy would be back soon with Danny. They had gone to help him collect something from the scrap yard. "I can see why he's leveraging for a meeting though. It's not an equal value is it?"

"Excuse you, my skills do not come cheaply." She placed her palm fingers spread on her chest head tipped back. "I think Ozzy is actually using Danny to leverage a meeting with you." She dropped her head with a sigh.

"Why?"

"Words getting around about a little red riding hood getting a little kitty sidekick."

"He is not my sidekick! He dresses like a cat! He is obviously your side kick!"

"You aren’t aggressively removing him from your business when he gets into it. And Danny does not hide his playfulness with you even when you are in one of your moods. It's obvious you're close."

"Which is dangerous Selina." She shrugged.

"My son wasn't born with a poker face kitten, and seems to have the family penchant for adrenaline rushes. Luckily he got my social abilities and emotional skills. Showing your true feelings on occasion will not hurt you."

"What does penguin even want from me?"

"I'm not sure. Could still be his curiosity. Red Hood gang is known for keeping a strong hold on their drug supply. The safest drugs are found in the alley. Rich people do love their designer drugs, and those snobs would definitely be too scared to come down just to buy them. Could be something else. He does fancy himself a philanthropist. Maybe he wants to help with some of your charity work. He is fickle as a bird."

"I'm not doing drug deals in front of Danny."

"It's just a meet and greet. And I'm not suggesting you go as hood. But Jay Peter's. Second to the gang. It's also at his house. Not the club."

"Fine whatever. Check in with the crazy club and find out when they will be here for dinner."

*******************

"What the fuck are you gonna do with a cement truck Danny?" Jason barked down at the alley from the roof where he was setting out dinner with Selina.

"Harley said she liberated condiment king of some giant bags of sugar." He had his arms outstretched to show just how big. He was also sitting on top of the drum while ivy's vines carried the thing across town. "And there is the big market festival in a few weeks. I want to turn it into a giant cotton candy machine. And then after I was gonna repurpose it to make the ecto generator I was telling you about."

"That sounds wonderful honey. Set it up near the middle of the alley ok so we don't need to move it as far once you're done." Selina said.

Ivy and Danny got it settled into place while Harley launched herself up the fire escape stairs. Throwing herself at the table. Hood smacked her hands away from the food. "Go wash up. Before you get tetanus."

"Ugh that's not how tetanus works. You would think a bat would know how you get tetanus."

"You're not that kind of doctor. I wouldn't trust your knowledge on it anyway." He shot back ignoring her petulant raspberry at him. "Make sure you go in and wash up first." Hood shouted down to the other two.

Chapter Text

"Are we going to a rich fruit loops house?" Danny asked through his bike helmet. He was riding with Jason on his civilian bike. Selina on her own motorcycle. Though all 3 helmets were synced with Danny's tech upgrades.

Jason snorted. "Kitten, that's rude to say before even meeting someone to judge." Selina admonished.

"Yes." Jason said with a laugh. Knowing Selina was glaring at him.

"Oswald is an old friend."

"Acquaintance" Jason coughed out.

"You are being unhelpful Jason!"

"Oswald is known as the penguin."

"Do not call him that. He doesn't appreciate it." Danny shoved at Jason's ribs. "Oswald has some cosmetic birth defects that people interpret as bird-like. He has a personal affinity towards birds."

"Obsession." Jason coughed again.

"Like Batman with bats?" Jason practically cackled like one of Harley's hyenas.

"I will turn off your microphone Jason." Selina scowled. "He was ostracized by society for it for a long time. He has fought his way tooth and nail to get where he is now. Please be respectful."

"I will do my best." Danny answered. "But if he's a fruit loop. No promises."

****************

Danny made a show of knocking on the door to a rhythm he liked.

It didn't take long for a large man in a suit to answer the door, directing a sour look directly at Danny who just smiled and waved at him. Jason raised a brow at penguins goon challenging him. Selina just smiled.

"We have a meeting with Oswald." Selina said cheerily.

"Follow me." The goon said, stepping out of the way for them to walk into the entry. Danny shoved his hands in his pockets doing just that. Jason and Selina doing the same but making sure their backs weren't turned on the man. Two more were in view of the entryway. Danny took to looking around as the man shut the door behind them. Jason grabbed him by the shoulder and pulled him in close before he started to wander too far.

"Boss was expecting Red Hood to join you."

"Well he gets me. His lieutenant." Jason clipped back. Jason kept a good grasp on Danny's Hoodie to keep him close, feeling him tug as his eyes wandered. "Don't touch anything."

"I'm just looking." Danny pouted.

They were lead to an ornately decorated door which lead to a sunroom. Inside sitting at marble topped table was Oswald. Dressed in slacks and button up, but short his signature coat and hat. Nearby were 2 older gentlemen Jason recognized from his time at gotham academy and a woman probably around bruce's age he did not.

"Come in, come in. Have a seat." Oswald said pleasantly gesturing to the 3 seats across from him. "Would you like anything to drink?"

"No." Jason answered

"Whatcha got?"

"I apologize for Jay, he's a tad paranoid. Tea would be lovely, Oswald."

Oswald gave a nod to Selina's request and an attendant went to fetch her a setting to match his. "Anything and everything you could possibly think of." He addressed Danny's question. "But if you are interested, Louis has been working on a new pet project, have you ever had a sarsaparilla?"

Danny lit up, "like real sarsaparilla? Not just root beer?"

"Indeed, Louis has taken a gander at brewing some fresh. Would you like to try some?"

Jason's unease couldn't overpower Danny's excitement. The kid turned those big blue on him and Selina. "Can I?"

"It's non caffeinated." Oswald added.

"Sure kitten." Oswald lifted a finger, and one of his men went to get it as the attendant returned with Selina's.

"It's been forever since I've had it. It's so much better than root beer. I don't know why they stopped making it."

"You'll have to give your opinion on Louis's brew to him." Oswald said with mirth. As the man came back with a cup of ice and a small pitcher. Danny was quick to snatch up the cup once poured.

“How about some introductions?”

“‘M Danny.”

“Jay, hood’s second, Can we skip the small talk and get down to business?" Jason asked arms crossed over his chest staring down the penguin. “We know who you are, you know us.”

"I prefer to call them pleasantries."

"I'm not pleasant."

"Jay." Selina hissed in warning.

Danny watched them both while sipping his drink. Before adding in unhelpfully. "I think you're pleasant." Jason squeezed his bicep taking in a deep breath.

"Children are absolutely darling aren't they. But I won't keep you too much longer than necessary. Wouldn't want the fletchling to get antsy."

Jason bit back a groan as Danny lit up like a Christmas tree.

Selina grinned like the cat who got her cream.

Oswald chuckled at the kid's joy. “Well I would hate to kill your good mood, but if Jay would like to move things on.” Oswald gestured to a small entourage beside him. “I’ve taken the opportunity to invite some of the staff to meet you today. So that you could get a head start on the assessment and placement process. Along with, your mother said you might have some learning difficulties. So the iep can be set up also." Oswald said gently.

Danny pouted. “We have to redo all of that?”

“Afraid so. Your paper copies of your transcripts with information retracted, though are a good starting point, they will not work without proper transfer." Hugo Strange stepped forward. “Hello I'm Hugo Strange, I'm the guidance counselor at Gotham academy.” he introduced himself. Shaking Selina's hand and Danny's. Even as the boy pouted at him. He turned to Selina. “We are treating him as a home school transfer to preserve his amenity.”

“Thank you.” Selina said genuinely. Though Jason picked up her apprehension.

“Mrs. Carlisle and Mr. Strange, have everything prepared in my office.” Oswald stated. “You can take the drink with you, and Marie has prepared some assorted snacks in there for you.” he looked to Selina and jay to make sure they approved.

Jason, to Oswald's surprise, is the one who spoke up. “Go on Danny. It’s gotta be done. Get it over with.``Danny sucked aggressively from his straw but followed the two administrators and one of penguins men out of the room to his office. Once Danny was out of the room Jason turned his attention back to the penguin. “I’m wondering why the school staff has that information on Danny to begin with?”

“Because, a child’s education is an investment into the future. And I have no intention to let my investment be squandered over something as asinine as paperwork and processes.” penguin pulled out a cigarette now that Danny was out of the room.

“Which is something Mr. Cobblepot and I have an agreement on.” the last man said, holding out his hand. “I am Mr. Hammer. The headmaster of Gotham academy." Selina shook his hand while Jason glared at it till Selina nudged him. He made it quick. “Whatever the boy's situation is of none of my concern. However his education is. Mr. Cobblepot has made a gracious donation to my institute in order to facilitate more assistance in getting your son prepared.”

Bribery to look past their half baked paperwork. Jason wasn’t shocked. But he could see the preference over them just forging Danny's transcripts and somewhere to send them from.

“That wasn’t part of the deal though…” Selina stated eyes narrowed at penguin. Don’t trust anything being free in Gotham.

Oswald waved her off. “What else do they have to have done for the paperwork hammer?” he asked.

“Medical paperwork. You have his old vaccine records. Which can be accepted, but a physical will need to be done by a medical professional and supplied to the school.”

“Got it.” Jason responded.

Oswald gave a nod. “You need to monitor some of the testing, yes?”

“Yes, and miss Kyle will be needed for the iep portion. To go over suggestions for accommodation.”

“Send one of my boys when you need her. Thank you.” hammer saw the clear dismal and left. “Rest of you out also please. I’d like some privacy with my guests.'' They waited till everyone left and shut the door behind them.

“Oswald…”

“Your boy deserves a fair shot Selina.” he took a drag of his cigarette. “I’ve been looking into things you know. That hit hood put out for reports or heads of men seen driving white vans or all white suits with sunglasses and black ties. That bombing at the lab across town.” he let out a sigh. “Can’t say i’m a bleeding heart. But what some of my people found in bits and pieces they could pull out the parts that were left.” he shook his head. “Monsters disguised as men are after your boy.” he rubbed the bridge of his nose. “Tell me if i am mistaken though, I doubt it. Bruce Wayne's boy as well?”

“Keep that fucking shit to yourself!” Jason sat up straight to put a finger in the penguin's face.

“Calm yourself young man.” he looked at Selina. “These up-incoming youngsters, always so brash. And their manners.” he shook his head smashing his cigarette butt into the ashtray. He raised a brow at her. Jason bristled at the dismal.

She gave a lopsided grin and raised her hands up palms to the sky. “I don’t know what you want to hear Oswald.”

“Well I would like to say I wish you had better tastes, but we all see how you chase after batman like a cat in heat. I hope Harley and Ivy at least are keeping you out of those troubles. “ he chuffed at her. “But that Brucie Wayne isn’t as stupid as he acts. And I'm pretty sure you know that, or you wouldn’t have pounced on him to his bed. He is as everyone in this city knows a sob story collector. Let alone once he sees he has his face.” he hit his fist on the table. “You can’t bloody well think you are hiding Danny from that man in his own city for long do you? His youngest goes to the same damn school.”

“It’s not a forever plan. It’s just long enough for Danny to get settled into his new life.”

Oswald held his head. “You’re planning a legal battle with the richest man in the city. Hell, one of the world's richest men. Can’t say you don’t have gumption. But I'm advising you not to bank on that. Nobody is going to have the funds to help you go toe to toe with him in court.”

“I have it under control.”

“Like these guys in white? The ghost investigation ward.” penguin scoffed. “How the hell are these bastards operating? Isn’t that why Bruce Wayne gives those tight wearing busy bodies all that fucking money.” Oswald seethed. Jason tilted his head in confusion. “Don’t look at me like that. I’m sure your boss ,hood, feels the same way. He’s got a soft spot for the little ones. Everyone knows that. I got 15 seconds of audio to know I'm surprised you lot left any of it standing.”

“Guess we need a bigger bomb next time.” Jason chipped in. arms crossed.

“I’d say hotter, but bombs aren’t my forte.” he poured a refill from his tea pot for Selina. “You and your son have my support Selina.” He shook his head solemnly before looking at Jason. “Jay thank you for coming, please inform your boss if he wants help dealing with these guys in white. He has my empire's support. Those cuckoos in their “watchtower” won’t do something about the ruffians then the rest of us must clean it up for them.” he stared directly into Jason's eyes. “One of those monsters steps foot in this city, I will send you everything you need to destroy them.”

“That’s why you wanted a meeting with hood?” Jason asked, a bit surprised but not disliking the connotations.

“Yes, if they can do that to a child. Who they are so easily able to other and destroy without remorse, hm what chance do the rest of us have? It wasn’t so long ago I was also easily othered and scorned. Won’t be long till they drown all the progress we made and come for the rest of freaks and monsters of appearance. Birds of a feather and all that.” he took a sip of his tea. “You took the files before blowing the place.”

“I’m not sharing that with…”

“I don’t want to see it. Even that little bit, it will haunt my nightmares yet." Oswald looked at Selina with sad eyes. “I hope you aren’t beating yourself up too bad over it my dear.” he took Selena's hand while patting it on the table. “You’re doing right by that boy now. That’s what matters. You have friends to help you too.” he turned back to Jason. “And you. Let’s make some arrangements to make more friends. How about a way to contact you or hood. I don’t care. Whoever can act on the information the fastest. Maybe even other deals in the future.”

“Of course.” Jason answered.

Chapter Text

"So how'd he do?" Selina asked.

"The good news is our institution has a bit more leeway. He'd probably struggle more in public school." Mr . Hammer stated bluntly. "He is a bit behind his age group in English. Which reflects your paper copies. However science and math, I'd highly recommend senior ap courses. But it will take time to get him up to speed in his weaker areas. He is also slightly above his age group on history, but he seemed to wish to argue over some details in questions even if he did answer them correctly. If his little notes on the margins of question are anything to go by. So I'd recommend keeping at his grade for that. If he likes to debate history, I do have one professor in mind for him."

"That makes sense." Selina chuckled.

"Is it possible to block him from taking classes with the Wayne kids?" Jason asked.

"Of course. It's not likely he'd have many chances of overlap as it is." Hammer drolled to him. He slid a tablet across to Selina. "Here is my suggestion for his first semester schedule."

Selina skimmed it to see if anything seemed inappropriate. English 101, ap algebra, lunch hour, a drafting class, p.e., and American history. He'd probably be fine about that. "This looks great, thank you."

Hammer nodded at her. "He will have to do his own schedule online like other students for the second semester. Mr. Strange will be available to assist though during school hours."

"That should be fine."

"Lastly, that leaves his accommodations. A separate quiet room for tests, allowed to doodle or other small quiet fidget items. Extension windows on homework assignments that are taken home. Should adjustment be needed we will have another meeting to update at the school."

"Thank you again Mr. Hammer."

The group's attention was brought to a collection of penguin’s goons moving towards the sun room where Danny was with Oswald.

Selina looked to Jason. "He's fine. Confused, but not in distress." Jason said with a frown moving to follow. Hugo Strange raised a brow the comment from the man he knew as Jay. But they followed behind Selina and her friend to head to the others location.

Inside Oswald was cackling mad, it could almost be confused for a joker gas attack if not for the almost valiant attempt for penguin to regain his composure. Danny pouted at him as the man wheezed, smacking his knee.

"Danny what did you do?" Jason asked exasperated.

"I just asked a question!" He turned his pout on Jason and his mom.

"This kid," Oswald took a deep breath, still laughing. "When you let this boy get social media. I want his handle." He was giggling too much again to speak, needing a minute to continue. "He's an absolute hoot. Golden egg you got there."

"I just asked if he was Batman's sugar daddy. Cause all his sidekicks have bird names."

Selina put her hand over mouth to try and contain her own laughter. Taking in deep breaths.

Jason just blinked at Danny before taking a deep breath and asking, "so, what, uh brought you to that hypothesis?"

"Well, I heard some people talking about Batman having a sugar daddy. Which is a rich guy giving money to someone." He pointed at penguin with his thumb. "He's rich." He waved his other hand around. "And when like Nascar drivers get money from rich companies they put their names and colors on their suits, so." He looked back to Oswald. "And you like bird themed stuff. They are bird themed vigilantes." Danny pouted again at Oswald ``Ergo, you're his sugar daddy and he themed his sidekicks to show your support for him. Like why else would Batman have bird themed side kicks instead of bat ones?"

Selina couldn't hold in her own laughter anymore. She was practically crying. And Oswald was cracking up again.

It was Jason's turn to rub his face mumbling to himself before he smiled at Danny, choking down a few chuckles. "You know what? good point. Next time you prank Nightwing you can ask him about it."

"You should egg him before you do." One of Oswald's men said with a finger raised.

"Vinny, I don't think the boy needs help master minding his pranks, but please I need to see the birds faces." Oswald was still laughing. "But this." He giggled. "I'm using this kid. I am going to own this. bats isn't going to know what hit him." He cackled. "This is better than that trash piece Vicky vale did saying Wayne was Batman's sugar daddy." He turned his mirth full face to Selina. "I love this little hatchling. You must simply bring him around more."

Chapter Text

"Are You wishing for another lesson Schrodinger?" Damian didn't move an inch as the mischievous cat materialized to the side of him.

"Ugh, I thought I was good that time."

"You need to work on your breathing."

Schrodinger tilted his head to the side. "Huh. I don't have to do that so I'll try that next time." Damian's brow scrunched as he looked at the cat. "Anyway. No lesson. I actually have a question, I was told to ask Nightwing. But I haven't seen him in a while and I don't know how to find him. But I can find you. And you can call him right?"

Damian bristled a little at Schrodinger's words. But the cat was disturbingly easy to read. Jason was putting no effort in training him on hiding his emotions. There was no threat in his words. And he didn't seem to see anything wrong with his comment.

"May I inquire how you are able to find me easily?"

"OH it's cause your liminal. I can sense it. Well when you are close, or close to hoods haunt. He notices first though. He bristles like, "the catboy does what Damian assumes is an imitation of how Jason holds himself. "and gets territorial. When I sense that I know someone is close and to go reach out you know. He gets real wound up if it's Batman and he crosses into his haunt. He kinda gets like that with you. But I think it's you he's sensing and assumes batman with you. I can't sense batman. But its not my haunt." Schrodinger just shrugged.

Robin tapped him com. Refusing to address what he was just told. That could cause complications. "Nightwing, Schrodinger would like to ask you a question."

"OH what's up kitten?" Damian scrunched up his nose. Prepared to semi repeat dicks statements, only to not need to. The kitty boy lights up and moves closer to robin. It was only for his strict training that he didn't shove the boy back who was now floating less than a foot from his face. Damian didn't comment on the click that turned the chat over to the group one.

"HI, So I'm pretty sure the answer is no. Cause everybody just keeps laughing in my face when I ask. But they won't explain why they are laughing. Or why I'm wrong. And it totally makes sense. So I don't know. And hood said to ask you. Cause obviously I'm missing something, and it's driving me crazy."

"Well we don't want curiosity to kill the cat. Shoot kitten I'm all ears. " Nightwing chirped back.

"Too late for that." Schrodinger teased back. "Is Mr. Cobblepot Batman's sugar daddy?"

Damian could not control the look of absolute appallment at Schrodinger's words.

His coms blissfully silent for a few seconds till spoilers deranged cackling broke it followed by the sounds of gunfire. The idiot gave away her position.

Followed by Nightwings stuttering and Drake's own disbelief. " what? How do you even come to that? Are you serious?"

"Unfortunately he is very serious." Damian answered, nose scrunched in disgust.

"Why would hood have him ask me!?"

Steph's coms were no longer in theirs and Damian could on infer his father's silence as having gone to check on her.

"Schrodinger," oracle cut in. They could hear the mirth in her voice. "Would you be willing to present your evidence to the class?"

Schrodinger threw his hands up in the air in frustration. "He has a thing for birds, and all of Batman's sidekicks are like named after birds. Like a ode to a lover because it doesn't make sense his sidekicks aren't bat themed." Damian squeezed his fist at his side to hold in his frustration at Schrodinger's ineptitude.

"OH my god." Tim's voice piped in.

"Nightwing started the bird theme." Oracle said with a giggle.

"He picked robin." Black bat chimed in, Unhelpfully.

Schrodinger's head tilted again. Damian could practically see the gears turning as he processed this information. He held up 2 fingers inches apart. "So….." he looked back at Damian from his fingers. "Does that mean Nightwing is his sugar baby?"

Robin barely kept from flinching at his brother's indignant squawk. And the rest of his siblings cackled.

"Your deduction skills are sorely lacking." Robin criticized his companion.

"Hey I was the muscle of my team." He flapped his hand at Robin. "I had other people to do the thinking part."

"I can't believe this! I was 10." Nightwing protested.

Damian cut in as he watched horror start to etch across Schrodinger's face. He's never wanted to indulge in dicks face palming mannerism so much. "Penguin has no relation to the moniker robin."

"Nor with me. I am not nor have I ever been a sugar baby to anyone!"

"You probably could be."

"Wow, call out."

"Babies do not get to talk like this."

"I'm almost 14. I'm not a baby."

"Please just cease this inane subject." Robin sighed heavily. "I made a mistake assisting. I thought it was a serious inquiry."

"It was!" Schrodinger protested.

"I'm going to kill Hood." Nightwing groaned.

That had Schrodinger laughing a bit. "Little late there buddy." Nightwing gasped.

"Schrodinger, did you post your theory to social media?" Oracle asked.

"No!" Tim choked out.

"No. I'm not allowed social media. But uncle Ozzy said something about social media when I asked him."

"Catwoman and Hood have not lost all sense then."

"Whelp, at least I know the source of that little tidbit." Oracle deadpanned.

"How is B taking this development?"

"You should stick to your strengths, till Hood and Catwoman have properly trained you in other areas." Damian stated to Schrodinger before he shared any more incorrect deductions.

"Wha…" Schrodinger said, confused. "Nobody's training me. I'm not a dog." Danny gestured to his costume. "I'm showing Hood the ropes."

"Kid, that's cu.."

"He is not lying." Damian gaped.

"Just because he believes it doesn't make it true, demon brat."

"I realize that Red Robin!" Damian snapped back. "But what circumstances would have Hood allowing such a belief to hold? Schrodinger isn't capable of lying."

"I am too capable of lying!" Schrodinger gave an indignant squawk, his floating raising him above Damian's head. His fists clenched at his side at words before crossing them to glare at Robin.

"I can assure you, you can not. Not successfully."

"I can to! I'll prove it!"

Damian tsked at him. Crossing his own arms as he stared down the cat. "Well?"

"Give me a minute to think."

"Do not strain your mental faculties too much." Damian snarked back.

"I like toast." Schrodinger finally shouted out. Like he was rushing to get out anything before Damian could comment again.

"Like I said you can not. Your disgust is written all over your face." Damian pointed to areas on Schrodinger's features. "I don't even know how you can such distaste to not even be able disguise it over something so mundane."

"Well you'd hate toast too if you saw your parents' new weapon they built to use on you to make toast as a demonstration too." Danny snapped back.

Damian stared at the catboy in mild shock at the statement. His com once again silent for a bit too long before once again Tim cut it. As Schrodinger seemed to register what he had said. Slowly lowering to the roof while curling in on himself.

"Excuse me!"

"Hey kitten…"

"I think I hear Red Hood calling me. Uh, I think I have to go home now. Thanks for clarification, see you later bye!" And with that Schrodinger turned to run off before disappearing from sight.

"Little b, "

"As I have already stated, he is an absolute failure of a liar." Damian shouted down his siblings. "And it was quite obvious he hadn't meant to say that. He does not think through his actions or words." Damian squeezed the hilt of his sword. "We have confirmation that Catwoman's ward is from an abusive home situation. And is most likely why Hood has taken to protecting him."

"That whole conversation was off the rails!" Steph finally chimed in.

“Are you alright, spoiler?” dick asked.

"I'd bet money the kid has blue eyes. That's why Jason is hard-core guarding him from b." Tim once again added nothing of importance to the conversation. Yet the rest of the siblings started arguing about money and fool’s bets.

“We will have to apply a few more man hours to the case.” Batman chimed in finally. “And no more putting discussion with Schrodinger on the communal coms unless it is pertinent to everyone. Oracle just record them for the case files.” he let out a world weary sigh. “Now please just focus on your patrols. And getting back to the cave in one piece.”

****************************

Jason could feel the pit claw at him. Danny was panicking. He was on his way straight to Jason. fast. But he was still pissed he couldn’t just bail out of this delivery and get to him. He didn’t want anyone fucking around bunch of fucking unknowns making this one. And it was the outlaws, so it was in one of his personal warehouses. Where Danny's work room was located. And he diddn’t want any of these dumb fucks touching a god damn thing. Accidently blow up the whole neighborhood. Jason let out a breath he didn’t know he was holding as he felt Danny enter the warehouse. And then the feeling of him colliding with his back and latching onto him like a possum kit. He knew Danny turned visible when the guy running this crew took a step back, hand going to his waist.

“Kids with me. Ignore him.” Jason growled through the modulator. “Get done and get out.” he made eye contact with frank and marco framing him. Both giving a nod of acknowledgment. Taking charge to push the delivery people away from hood and danny.

Jason pushed calm through the pit. Took some effort. safe/calm/assholes/safe

“Am I shooting Nightwing in the ass next time he shows his mug around here?”

Danny shook his head no into his shoulder blades. fuckup/me/wrong/fear

easy/calm/safe/love. Jason groaned a little at the last one he had pushed out. That got a small chuckle out of danny. “I’m sure it’s not that bad. He answer your question?”

“Could’ve just said no.”

“Where’s the fun in that?”

“I got into an argument with robin. And I let something slip that I shouldn't have." Danny mumbled into his shoulders. sorry/fuckup/screwup

“Hey knock that shit off. It’s ok. We all know the bats are gonna figure it out anyway. It’s ok. I’m sure it wasn’t that bad.”

“I let slip that my parents built weapons to use on me.”

Jason paused at that. He pushed more clam and safety though his “core” at danny before speaking. “From a bat info stand point, that's not bad.” Jason made an attempt at putting humor through. He’s not sure how much he succeeded. “Probably set off the big black bat’s savior of black haired blue eyed orphans complex. Setting up emergency adoption papers.”

“Ew. I don't want anymore crazy vampire aesthetic fruit loops trying to adopt me. One is bad enough.” Jason’s chuckle came out like a cartoon villain laugh with his modulator getting of afew of the guys to turn and look at him. “Besides,I have my new family.” he felt Danny squeeze him.

“Yeah you do kid.” hood patted one of the arms latched to his shoulders.

“So what’s all this stuff?”

Hood groaned. “You are not to touch a damn thing in here you didn’t bring in yourself, understand me?” Danny groaned but at least he wasn’t panicking anymore.

Chapter Text

https://ao3-rd-8.onrender.com/works/51365734/chapters/129797104

Mad Hatter learns of Danny as catwowan’s sidekick. And his powers.

Danny has started school, has a bit of a breakdown about starting highschool without his friends.

Mad Hatter contacts a member of the wonderland gang he worked with who can infiltrate Red Hood’s area.

Batman has learned of Mad Hatters escape at large and pulls the whole family onto the case. Forcing robin to join him on patrol so schrodinger will not make contact. With the hope he will stay in the safety of Hood’s territory. Unknown to them that Hood is having problems with Black mask in his own. And wants Danny away.

Mad Hatter tries to brainwash Danny with his tech placed by his fellow gang member but fails.

Mad Hatter meets Danny and becomes friends, Danny asks for help with his school English paper on Alice in wonderland.

Danny informs his mother of his new friends and roughly his plans for the week with his homework. Ivy and Harley are gone on a job.

Hatter tries to reassemble the wonderland gang. Black mask sends along his employees who were once members to assist Hatter so that Hood will be distracted if his sidekick is hurt. Or catnapped.

Danny meets the wonderland gang minus the carpenter. They have a tea party and plot how to take control of Danny for the gang.

Red robin makes contact with Danny who is looking for robin and wants him to see the alice play he is putting on with the wonderland gang for his school project. Red Robin is rude to Schrodinger, and Danny leaves. In how he exits triggers Tim to know that Danny is the target of the Mad Hatter. But he is too late to stop him.

Nightwing goes to crime alley to try and find anyone in the siren’s who can help find Danny. He finds Grundy and Croc who help him.

The group makes contact with Danny at the theatre and Mad Hatter’s plan is revealed to Danny when he goes to prove the robins wrong about what they are telling him about the wonderland gang and Hatter being bad people trying to hurt him. Danny trashes the place, frees all Hatters vicTims, and punishes Hatter by sending his mind to the nightmare realm before blocking his ecto signature and running away. Black masks men escape, but the rest of the wonderland gang goes down. Danny leaves behind some effects. And is in a cheshire cat costume from Hatter when he goes.

Hood arrives to the batclan, grundy and croc arguing over where to or who should look for Danny. References to Danny and Hood being dead are dropped and there is an argument between Batman and Hood about who’s at fault, what information needs to be shared. Which each side having different priorities. Hood’s side informs them that Danny is in danger from the government due to his power use and what will happen to Danny in minor detail if they find him before Hood or the sirens. Hood’s group splits off to look for Danny, and the batclan split off to search also

Batman realizes he Made a mistake, Alfred gets sassy with him and they have a family breakfast full of tension and hard truths about what they know about schrodinger and learn how close Damian has actually gotten with him. Learning some personality traits. It ends with a plan for everyone to do case work and split to look for Schrodinger during patrol.

Dick and Damian head to crime alley in civies and run into Selina and Helena who Selina had been with when Danny went missing. They are staking out a cemetery where Jason was buried. Selina accosts Dick and they talk while Damian places flowers on the graves. Dick talks down Selina and promises to get her son home to her.

Dick finds Danny alone. Talk him into changing out of the cheshire costume and into a new domino and his under suit, doing so reveals Danny’s i.d. And Dick goes through all the stages while trying to comfort Danny and convince him to go home along with learning what Danny did to the Mad Hatter to wake him up before he succumbs to stress.

Dick takes him home and makes sure Jason knows he knows. Danny expresses his insecurities and why he ran thinking they’d see him as a monster for what he did to Hatter and not figuring out his plan sooner to stop him. His family reassures him that they love him and aren’t going to abandon him.

Jason and Dick have a chat. It starts with Dick Mad and Jason defensive and ends with Jason filling Dick in on the promise of not telling the rest of the family. Dick also says he will wake up the Hatter before he dies.

Dick goes to see the Mad Hatter in the hospital with John Constantine who wakes him but also tries to warn Dick about the dangers of the being who did the spell, but Dick blocks him at all turns and tells him to leave Gotham when he’s done. It’s not his concern.

Chapter Text

Danny was hanging with Red Hood on patrol. After the last fiasco, until the family had a clear procedure in place for hanging with new people, Danny was asked to keep to the alley except for school. Which didn't seem to be an issue because his confidence had taken quite a hit.

For the most part things had been calm in the alley. They had found the low level rat who had been dropping locations to black mask to hit. After hood had found and taken care of it permanently, black mask seemed to retreat again.

Leaving low level mugging, b&e and unauthorized drug deals to mostly deal with. And hood had no issue having Schrodinger tag along on those. Kid was pretty good at scaring them straight if not adding red hood to the mix did a lot for that.

Danny was also enjoying teaching Hood how to tap into his powers without transforming. After relying too much on his powers to keep track of Danny's safety and whereabouts Hood wasn't willing to risk falling into that same trap on regular patrols.

Jason was already pretty disgruntled that he had to concede that his old man was right. And supers have a bad habit of relying on their powers to do tasks they could do without and when that power is interrupted they are left floundering. And he had proven that when he'd gotten into that argument in front of Bruce when Danny went missing. Way to show weakness to the old man.

So he wasn't using invisibility to get around undetected, like Danny was, but he did enjoy the dramatic effect of just appearing in front of criminals to spook them no matter where they were. Especially just appearing inches from them from behind. Doing that horror movie mouth breathing to crackle his modulator. That was not going to get old. Ever. He had to turn off his modulator a few times to keep from laughing and get that full effect. He had chosen the crowbar tonight. Full props to sell that horror movie feel.

Danny was really enjoying the whole thing. Schrodinger didn't bother trying to hide his laughter. Sharp teeth out mouth inhumanity unhinged and glowing eyes. Popping up second to make the bastards trip as they ran. Yeah. Watching this patrol feed was going to be a guilty pleasure. He was going to send it to Roy. Probably rose too. Even if he only had to hit one asshole with the crowbar to get them to take in the lesson.

Everything was going great in Jason's opinion. And his mistake was thinking about that for longer than a millisecond. A sound hit Hood's ears he hadn't heard in a couple of weeks. He turned slowly expecting to dodge a giant green dog. Instead he was dodging a flaming sword. He felt Danny grab him and drag him back. No/no/shit/panic/trouble/run/change came Danny's ghost speak followed by a bright flash of light and Instead of an all black catboy he faced an all white one. “Fly now and switch forms!” Danny phased through him and put up a shield just in time to take another hit of the sword coming down. And the full force of the being who came out of the portal. A black knight. Like medieval fantasy armor black knight. Jason summoned his all blades to back up his kid brother. Anger roared to life through his core. He didn't care how much he was projecting it. Which probably not the best thing. He caught Danny off guard, the shield faltering on the next blow. He moved forward to cover the opening swords up to block the coming blow to find himself thrown back with a hit to the gut from Danny flying away from the enemy with him. “No, no change first. You can not get hit in your human form. You won't be able to heal it fast enough.” Danny yelled over his shoulder at the thing. “Hey! Thought we talked about culture and customs and announcing our intent before starting brawls Frighty!” A fucking flaming black horse thing came out of the portal next.

“Is that a fucking ghost?!” Jason asked.

“Fight now questions later.” Danny said, putting him down a few rooftops away. “I'm blue daba dee da.” Danny started to sing.

“Stop that!” Jason snapped at him. Anger/challenge/protection/child hit across Jason distracting him. “That from that guy?”

“Yes, um that's fright knight, the spirit of Halloween and kind of my…”

“My liege, I have been order by your court to secure you safely to the realms.” Fright knight called out as he mounted Knightmare. “The council has been concerned with your extended recess from the realms''

“Liege?” Jason asked sharply.

“Questions later. Change forms. Now.”

Fine/good/no need/not going/can't make me.

Jason groaned at Danny's ghost speak. “Blue daba de da.” Danny started singing again.

“Stop that!” Jason felt his smoke billowing with the glow of his eyes growing. He felt the pit spreading through him.

“Nope it annoys you. And you Change easier when you're pissed.” The winged horse flying towards them and Danny picking up the song again. Jason felt the rings move over him as he raised his blades up to block the flaming sword. Danny taking the hit from the horse phasing through the building they were on. “Knightmare no! Bad girl!” He heard Danny over the coms. Good, those still worked. He forced the knight back, the roof cracking under the strain of force. Fuck. The buildings in this part of town couldn't handle a big fight like this.

Impressed/skill/fire/child/halfa came from the other ghost baking off a bit and circling Jason. He was willing to allow it to give him time to assess.

“Don't get hit with the sword Hood. One nick you get sent to the nightmare realm. That's kind of what I half way did to hatter.”

“Great thanks for the heads up.”

“It seems the young king has found another child halfa. One with impressive skills with a sword of his own. Do you have training child? Or do you my king says wing it naturally?”

“Danny, do not teach slang to crazy evil looking knights please.” Hood said Into his coms. “And who you calling a child? Do I look like a child to you?” Jason started circling the guy back but kept his feet on the roof. Flying without the grapple still gave Jason some trouble.

“Of course.” “Yeah you kinda are.” Jason frowned.

“I do believe even for humans 8 years old are children.” Frighty said gently. “But come child let's test your skill, see if you are worthy of the bond you’ve brokered with the king, maybe i should bring you along to the court. King regent frostbite I'm sure would be eager to see another halfa child.”

“You aren’t taking the kid or me anywhere.” with that call Jason charged, with no luck as fright knight flew over top of him in an attempt to come down. Jason moved to block the blow he wasn't going to be able to dodge easily a flying opponent. When the flying horse burst through the building to fly smack dab into the knight. Danny grabbing Jason's arm and taking off into the air.

“Dude we need to get higher. The buildings in Gotham are too close together for ground fighting.” Danny threw out an ecto blast behind him, turning them in the air. “If I let go, are you going to fly blue hood?”

“Don’t call me that!” he sent flames of his own down his sword.

“That’s not flying.”

“I know that!”

“Ok he’s coming for us so i’m going to toss you up in the air higher and see if you can figure it out before you hit the ground or phase through the ground.”

“That is a terrible plan, don't do that.”

“Too late.” and Danny did just that. Ignoring the string of curse over the coms and ghost speak. Oh there was Grundy on the ground he could probably catch him. Danny took the hit from Knightmare. Grabbing the reins and holding on. As the horse dragged him along. He pulled her head down directing her away from hood. “As you’re king I order you to stand down and go back to the infinite realms and tell everybody you didn’t see me.”

“Oh that is a very good attempt, my liege. But not enough infliction and will in that command.'' Danny's emotions flitted annoyance against Frighty’s what Danny is going to label patronizing. Danny was caught off guard as he was rammed into a building. Not phasing. Knightmare scrambling up the brick exterior to take to the skies once more after hood. Who was doing something because he wasn’t in free fall. “Uncle Grundy can you clear the area? This is going to be a bad area for anybody to get caught in.'' Danny asked as he pulled himself out of the mini crater. Shaking off the debris. “That’s gonna bruise.'' He ignored Grundy's concern and took back off towards hood and fright knight. Just in time to catch hood from crashing into the ground, taking the force instead. “Not doing so good huh?”

“He is doing much better than expected. Well done.” Frighty said coming towards them again.

“Yeah fuck you too asshole.” that got a snort out of Danny.

“Frighty i can’t go back yet. I need you to cover for me please.'' Danny asked all sweetly flying slightly above Jason to be in front of him like a shield.

“Try your royal command again. I did feel a slight tingle of compulsion my liege.”

“You know i hate that! I’m asking as fraid. Please.” Danny’s eyes flashed green.

“And the rest of your fraid has grown concerned, my little king. Your absence has been strongly felt, through the realms. The other young ghosts grow restless as well. I was worried the human scientist had claimed hold of you. And it seems they have pieces.” fright knight climbed off his steed to step forward. “You can not protect them from their crimes forever.”

“This looney tunes shit is fucked.'' Jason said, drawing the knight's attention as he walked on nothing around Danny who was floating with a wispy tail. “But how about a challenge? Do ghosts do bets?'' Jason waved one of his blue flame engulfed swords at the knight.

“We do little one.”

“Jason what are you doing?” Danny asked wide eyed.

“Ok bet, we get back on the ground. We go to the warehouse me and the kiddo duke it out in. and me and you have a sword fight. On solid ground only. No floating flying shit. If i can hold my ground for say an hour, you go back where you came from and keep your mouth shut about seeing us. You kick my ass in less, or i concede we can both go with you.”

“That is a terrible idea!” Danny said back to Jason.

“I accept your challenge child. I will be happy to give you a well earned lesson before dragging you to see the court. I will also concede should my liege command me properly too.”

Jason felt the burning anger and disgust and fear come from Danny at the knight's words.

“Easy kiddo.” Jason tried to soothe, hard with his own righteous anger and feeling a need to protect and defend Danny. “You don’t have to.”

“I hate that power,” Danny said bitterly.

“It is a necessary one to cultivate my liege, not many in the realms are level headed enough to listen to reason. But please, show me this arena you use for combat. Knightmare and I shall follow.”

“That’s not really that things name is it?”

“Yep, she’s a perfectly good girl too when she’s not being brought into the middle of a fight.” Danny started to fly towards the warehouse. Slowly, while hood went from running on nothing to sorta floating the correct direction. “Get rid of the legs. I think it’s confusing you.”’

“No, your lack of legs is confusing me. What about him? He still has legs.” Jason pointed to fright knight who was literally floating like a statue at a ren faire gate down to follow Danny. It was admittedly weirder looking than Danny's lack of legs. And he wasn’t sure why. But he did start picking up speed to catch up with Danny

“Knightmare also enjoys a good brawl. I do not force her, my liege.”

“Sure thing uncle Frighty.” Danny snarked back. “How'd you even find me?”

“You reached out to my core not that long ago. I assume something had befallen you to need my abilities. You are not normally one to punish misdeeds harshly. Except skulker. He still laments how you put his containment cell into the small ice box where humans store food as an unjust punishment for the indignity.”

Jason sent calm/care/it’sok/deserved/not your fault/here for you/ over his ghost speak. But out loud, “you stuck a ghost in the freeze?”

“In my defense I didn't know if he could actually feel it through the thermos. And two he interrupted a test at school that jazz had already me riding me about not failing. I was gonna leave him there for 3 days. Jazz locked the freezer for a week instead.”

*****************************************

“Time!!!!! Time!!! Danny shouted out. Grundy stomping towards the two to make sure fright knight stopped Jason's swords disappeared and he collapsed to the floor panting. Even though he knew he didn’t need to breathe.

“I am very impressed child. You even got several hits on me.” fright knight had a bit of green blood oozing from wounds.

Danny flew straight at hood with a thermos of ecto. “Say ah.” Danny said. Jason went to argue that wouldn’t work but got the side eye. So he did it and was horrifically surprised when his helmet split into a gaping mouth and Danny poured the ecto into his mouth while he laid there in shock. Grundy kept himself bodily between them and fright knight.

“The light show is over but the alarm is still going off.” Selina's voice came over the coms. “We got the scrambler running within 10 minutes. Do we need to keep it running?”

“Ugh, probably. And I don't think it’s strong enough for 4 ghosts and a zombie. We might have more problems.'' Danny looked at Jason. “Can you change back or need a minute?” Danny’s own rings flashed and he returned to a black catboy once again.

“Minute.” Hood said not getting up.

“My return without you will be suspicious. But I will do what I can to delay the council from intruding on your new haunt for a little longer my liege.” fright knight spoke. “But you can’t not delay them for eternity.”

“We just need more time to clean things up here. And make it safe. If the humans make amends nobody has to do anything rash.”

“My king, you are very forgiving. Do not let yourself fall to harm at the first sign of poised words to distract you from the blade the follows.” Fright knight kneeled down to pat his king's head. “Call for me whenever you are in need my little king.” fright knight turned to Jason. Offering a hand to pull him up. “I offer guardianship and education to you as well young halfa. You have a strong core and stronger constitution. A worthy soul, in duty to his king, should you wish to accept my offer of strength.”

“Is that the buzzy weird parental feeling thing. Like the opposite of how I felt when you said you wanted a fraid bond." Jason asked Danny tiredly.

“Yeah.”

“Fuck it, let’s see how it feels from the other side.'' Jason said letting the pit feeling grab that weird energy, and ohhhh that was a mistake. Jason was wide eyed. He hoped that didn’t distort the eye lens in his mask like this. He didn’t like that feeling. It felt like after Bruce had brought him home. When he had finally accepted he was his new family. He knew his emotions were giving him away, he couldn’t bring himself to bat away the hand coming to pat him on the head like it had Danny. Fuck Danny was giving him a dopey smile. He was losing cool points. He felt his transformation as he felt himself turn more human, the bright flash being muted by his closed eyes and just letting the feelings wash over him. It was a lot more overwhelming than he had done it to Danny.

“You may call for me if you are in need also my little knight.” fright knight said gently. He stood calling Knightmare to him before slashing a portal open in the air in front of him. “Till then I shall buy you time. But that is all I can do for now. And i make no promises for how much you will gain.”

“Thanks Frighty.” Danny waved him off. Jason gave a casual hand toss from the wrist as they went through.”

Once the portal was closed. “Holy shit my everything hurts.”

“Yeah, flying lets momentum absorb most of the force of blows. Also you broke the floor. And I bet pipes underground are cracked.”

“Fuck it, that is a tomorrow problem.”

“Uncle Grundy, I think hood needs a lift home.” Jason didn’t even protest getting picked up like a sack of taters and tossed over the zombies shoulder. Danny hopping up to Grundy's other one.

Chapter Text

Constantine stared up at the Gotham sky, the light show of magic across the smog of Gotham's sky showed much more power than what he was feeling or his tokens were picking up on. He watched it carefully as he puffed away on a cigarette under the eaves of a bodega. The bats had a bigger problem than they realized. John cursed as it tempered out. Now he had to keep off the bat's radar till he found the entity or multiple from that show. God he bloody hates Gotham.

**********************************************

Jason grabbed Danny through the wall of the stairway he was trying to sneak out the roof, dragging him into the kitchen. “OH no, you little fucker. You are going to sit your ass down right here and we are going over ghost royalty shit in detail and the other fucking nonsense.”

Danny made a whining noise vocally and with his core. But he didn't get up from the chair at the kitchen table. Selina took the seat next to him, a cup of tea in hand for each of them. Helena and ivy in the kitchen. Helena made eggs while Pam made a huge batch of berry pancakes. Grundy and Croc were sitting in the living room on their new giant couch. Danny loved cuddling on with all his smaller family members able to fit. Bud and Lou were on the floor in front of them.

“If he's in trouble I'm leaving. I'm the fun time only aunt or supportive one.” Harley said with a mouthful of cereal. She was the island counter. Sitting on top of it.

“Oh, I think you want to be here Harley.” Jason said, staring down Danny. He had his phone out on speaker with Roy and his daughter. Roy was a little groggy being in a different time zone. “You might have a new title. Court jester, ain't that right Danny?”

“I don't think that's an actual title position.” Danny mumbled. Harley was staring wide eyed chipmunk checking her food.

“Jason….” Helena said in warning. Selina was looking at her son expectantly.

“I didn't lie!” Danny defended. Throwing out his arms.

“OH boy.” Roy's voice came through the phone.

“King regent is running the place, who's the real king Danny boy?” Jason glared as menacingly as he could at the little brat who had his arms crossed and hunched in front of him.

“As king regent Frostbite is the real king. I'm too young for the job. My title is crown prince. Frighty just like calling me baby king.”

“The hell kind of shit show!” Helena started yelling at Jason.

“OH boy.”

Harley shouted in joy Throwing up her hands tossing milk and cereal everywhere, “Pammy I need a new fancy outfit, for fancy court people.”

Selina was staring open mouthed at her son. Pam was expertly ignoring the chaos, shoving Helena to the side and moving the food off the burner so she could put the Griddle on it to warm up.

“The kids a king?”

Grundy was completely silent. Not even a dead whisper.

“Grundy if you knew this whole time!”

“Jason is a ghost baby too!” Danny shouted out to distract. He cowed a bit when Jason snapped his attention back to Danny.

“OH, that is only going to work on the crazy clown, not the rest of us.”

“Danny, can you please explain how you came to be crown prince? Is it because you have a parental bond with the sitting king?” Selina asked calmly.

The group watched him intently. “Well, not exactly. He is more so king regent cause of our fraid bond, and he was the calmest least likely to declare war on this plane of reality. And is well respected by most ghosts, and is also the far frozen tribe leader. He's the ancient of ice and healing sorta. He can keep the council sorta under control, and the eyeballs love him. They tried to convince him to end me even so he'd get the job permanently.”

“I'm sorry what? Did you just say an eyeball ghost is plotting your like permanent death?” Roy came in over the phone.

“It's like their favorite pastime. They've tried to end me on several occasions.” Danny just waved them off like it was nothing. Jason was pinching the bridge of his nose, eyes squeezed tight. Kid didn't even have a flash of anything past low level annoyance at this point in the conversation.

“OK can you explain this eyeball's position?” Helena asked, “like is this ghost on the council?”

“It's eyeballs actually. It's a bunch of ghosts. They are called collectively officially, the observants. They like watch over all the time lines and realities to keep them from collapsing or going apocalyptic in a way that can affect the infinite realms. Cause if the GZ goes poof, all realities everywhere do. But everybody calls them the eyeballs cause they look like eyeballs with robes and hands. They are annoying. And for all their preaching of don't interfere, they do so a lot. To their own power gains. I put a damper on their free rain when I broke clockwork out of the prison they put him in. They used to force him to do their bidding. But now they can't. And it pisses them off to no end. And they hate me for it. More so after I got the crown. Even though they were the ones who bent the stupid rules to make me king. They collectively hold 1 spot on the council. Because they do kind of have an important job. Even if they are manipulative as all hell. Some are less annoying than others. Like Fred and Bob. I'd punt them into the sun. But Eric. He's not too bad. He's like a couple thousand Years younger than the bulk of them though.”

“Why are there ghosts who want to kill you at all on the council?” Helena asked. Thank God for Helena because it was taking all of Jason's wits to keep his emotions somewhat in check.

“A king can't make good decisions if they are surrounded by yes men. And like that would get rid of a good chunk of the council, Vortex and Undergrowth definitely want to end me. Most days Nocturne does too. Some days he's more chill. He's got mood swings or something.”

“Danny, there is a huge difference between a yes man, someone who will disagree, and someone who actively wants to end you. You can find someone I'm sure to sit on your council who doesn't want you dead.” Selina tried to explain to her son.

Danny just shrugged. “Ghost have strong feels. Usually it swings one way or the other.”

“Can we get a list of council ghosts who don't want to go old Rome on you?” Roy asked.

“Well there are my ghost parents, Frostbite, Clockwork, Pandora, I tried to put Fright Knight on the council. He refused and said it was a conflict of duty. But it's not like he has a problem telling me what to do.”

“Focus, non ghost parents on the council who don't actively want you dead.” Jason cut in still holding his head.

“Dora, she leads a realm in the GZ. Like frostbite and Pandora. Technically Clocky does too, but his non-citizens are the eyeballs, I'm sure you see that issue. Despair, Death, Delirium.'' Danny paused thinking. “Technus also has a seat saved but he's a few decades off from being old enough. But he sat in with me a few times. OK so depending at what point of time, Dan, or his titling domain according to Clocky is now Destruction. He's currently on probation/community service. But I left a seat open for him on the council. But he's getting a lot better. last time I saw him was with Jazz and Ellie. His violent tendencies have tapered off now that he has a new fraid. But he's a vengeful spirit, it's kind of his nature. Also Ellie has an open seat, but since she is 1 she is not allowed to fill it yet, like I can't since I'm 2. Dan is like weird, because of the temporal whatever in clockwork's lair, but also as long as his ghost age is 100 he can sit. But when I saw him last his ghost age was in the 20 somethings. But he did show up a meeting once. And he was exactly 100 then. So, yeah.” Danny looked around the room feeling so much confusion around him. It felt almost like being in delirium’s lair. There was so much. “OK so moving on. Then you have more neutral ancients. Desire, stability, logic, reason, creativity, unpredictability. None are enthusiastic about me having the crown, but they don't want me ended. Stability, and logic, like to say how displeased they are with a baby on the throne but that's not my fault and they know it.”

“You said the eyeballs bent the rules to make you the king. How'd they do that?” Harley asked. While everyone else was still processing.

Danny groaned, taking a huge sip of his tea. Selina slid hers to him and Harley handed her a bottle of wine. “OK so the thing in dad's, Jack's notes. Where Amity got sent to the ghost zone because Pariah Dark was let out of his coffin of forever sleep? He was the old king. Well fruitloop did it to try and become the new king of the zone by stealing his royal crown and ring. He tricked poor boxy into doing it for him at that, he's such a jerk. Because nobody could defeat him in single combat, a bunch of the ancients banded together and forcibly sealed him away. But he kept the crown and king title.”

“OH I don't like where this is going.” Croc spoke softly from the living room.

“But yeah released, tried to take over this realm before he planned to take over all realms and realities. So everyone including the ghosts and ancients who want me ended, and my home town banded together to take on the army he summoned. And the Fentons and fruitloop built a mecha suit that ran on ectoplasma that could boost the wearers strength by like 100. Or more.” Danny gave a shrug. “Fruitloop was supposed to wear it to fight him. So he could take the crown. He chickened out when he realized it would drain the wears ectoplasma. He'd be ended if the fight lasted more than 30 minutes. I had enough to make it 50 we estimated. So I took the suit. And beat his ass and stuffed him back in his box before I passed out. Luckily fruitloop locked the box. Cause he still had the key. I defeated him in single combat, the eyeballs said. Despite the fruitloop tantrumming he should get the crown cause he locked the box. But I didn’t end him. So I argued that meant the bastard in the box was still king. And everyone should just keep doing what they had been for a few thousand years already. But no, next time I transform I had a fucking crown. Ellie thinks it's funny. But I said it was cause she thought fruitloop having a tantrum over it was funny. Not king baby.”

“You won the title. In combat.” Roy said.

Helena was holding her face in both hands. “Jason we need a real fucking diplomat and a magic user in this team you're building now!”

“What no, we don't. We are just dismantling an evil government agency.”

“They played chop shop on baby royalty. Are you kidding me?” Roy said over the phone. “This does not need to turn into Anastasia 2.0”

“That is not going to happen.” Selina, Jason and Pam yelled out.

“This isn't a random child citizen or adopted kid of the king Jason. It's the freaking crown prince who according to his culture is a fucking toddler. This is so big, are you insane? A lot of those members sound like literal gods.”

“Why yes.” Harley Unhelpfully answered. “I mean I'd say medically speaking everyone here ticks at least one box if not more.”

“Harls, not the time darling.” Pam cut in adding another stack of pancakes to the oven to stay warm.

“God's of the gods actually.” Danny chimed in. “Ancients are like gods to like Greek, Egyptian, Abrahamic, norse, new gods, demons, like all those gods domains are connected to the infinite realms, they are other planes of realities. Like those gods get their powers from the ancients in the infinite realms.” Trying to be helpful and clarifying.

“OH boy.”

“Jason!”

“Nope! We focus on one piece at a time. Cripple the GIW, and without the strength of their enforcement and weapons we can start looking at tackling the rest. Maybe by then the league will quit fence sitting. They can handle all that.”

“Congratulations Selina you are the mother of the king of the God's.” Pamela said, bringing over several huge trays of pancakes. “Danny sweetheart set the table please.'' Selina was drinking straight from her wine bottle.

“OK aunt Pam.” Danny said quietly, used his powers to pull dishes out of the cabinets and drawers. Harley got up and got syrup and butter from the fridge and ketchup.

“Helena, finish the eggs while you have your crisis please.” Pam said going to collect a few more bottles of wine. Selina wrapped her arm around her son and pulled him in close. Grundy walked over to get his and Croc's plates. Fine/care/love/foolish/fine/ Grundy ghost spoke rumbling softly to Danny.

Danny gave him a strained smile.

“We day drinking today? This seems like a day drinking day." Roy's voice came over the phone.

“Roy, drinking only, nothing stronger than a beer.” Croc warned gently.

“Yep, beer. jay buddy, pal, i’m gonna crash on my couch for the rest of the day, typing up notes watching cartoons with my kid. I will call you later.”

“Yep.”

“Danny.” Jason said softly after the phone clicked. it’sok/safe/fine/stress/fine/care/love/it’sok Jason tried to console Danny privately. “Don’t do anything crazy.” he quickly held up a finger to Harley. “Not a word. Just let everyone absorb. Nobody is bailing on you. It’s just a lot. Let everybody process their crisis of faith or whatever.” he ignored the snorts he got from several people in the room. “We aren’t going to abandon you. You aren’t too much. That is just some key information that we needed ok. And you left it out way too long, do you understand?”

Danny gave a quiet nod. But started picking at his pancakes. Helena was loudly stirring eggs. But calmed a bit when Pam handed her her own bottle of wine. Harley sat next to Danny crowding him. Covering her pancakes in fucking ketchup and when Helena finally dropped the giant pot of eggs on the table covered her portion in syrup.

“I know we said not to make any calls till we had a known secure connection. But call Ellie. Text Ellie, do whatever you have to. Find her. We need to get to her as soon as possible and get her here where we can keep you guys safe.” Selina said to her son.

“Do the guys in white know you are like royalty?” Croc asked from the living room with his giant plate of pancakes.

“I don’t think so, even if you told them, they wouldn’t believe it. We aren’t sentient, we can’t have a government. Even if it’s a stupid convoluted one.”

“At Least they know not to put toddlers in charge. Look at congress.” Helena said shoving a spoonful of eggs in her mouth she had a bottle of wine to herself. “And you are putting more effort into being a thoughtful and just ruler then most governments on earth.”

“Having your rogues on your ruling council is not that sound though.”

“We should enroll ya in government class next semester kiddo.” Harley said, feeding Danny some of her sugary eggs.

“What? Nooooooooo "Danny whined. “That’s so boring. Sam was gonna do that and just tell me what to do.”

“Good luck raising a dimensional leader.” Helena tipped her wine bottle to the ladies. “I do not envy you.”

“Fuck it. Hand me one of those bottles.” Jason snatched the bottle from one of ivy’s vines as it passed it his request along with a thermos of ecto. “You get a hold of Ellie and I'll get her a pick up wherever she is. After you are done eating, get started on that ok?”

“Yeah. Can I call my other friends too?”

“No, not yet. Too big a risk still. And let Oracle try to show which side she is on. Just a little more time.”

Chapter Text

Oracle’s eye twitched as she stared at her screen. On it are two pictures. One from her, as dick had suggested. A picture of a basic meme green alien head, with the words I come in peace. And in response was a picture of the actor from taken on the phone with the words on it new phone who dis. She was going to strangle Dick or kiss him or both. Now to figure out how to respond without spooking this kid. She watched as the hacker just flitted at the edges of her first decoy firewall. Just poking at it.

*********************************************

“What do you want, Dickie bird?”

“How do you stop yourself from burning everything to the ground?” dick asked tiredly from his bed.

“That’s the great thing about being the black sheep. I don’t. I rampage to my heart's desire." Jason said. “I can give you a few labs to blow up of your own if it makes you feel better?”

“Please don’t tempt me.” Dick said with a hand over his eyes. His knuckles were still bloody, and he hadn’t cleaned up his now broken table. And he had several holes to patch in his apartment. Any criminals he came across on patrol were probably going to have an extra bad time tonight.

“Come on Goldie, live a little. Build that body count. Fuck B.”

“How’s my baby brother jay?”

“I’ll send you some happy pictures of the kid, all smiles and living his best life. How about that Goldie? That what you want? Kid rolling around on the floor with Harley's hyena’s, playing dress up with Croc and Grundy?”

“Yeah that would help a lot.”

“You know I’m gonna raze the whole organization to the ground right? With or without support?”

“I’m not going to stop you. You need B distracted. I can do that. I can help in other ways too. Just tell me what you need.”

“Right now, we are still in the planning phase. But Helena thinks we need a real diplomat to pass off information to in case things don’t go as planned. and someone with magical knowledge who isn’t going to attack or be threatening to the kid. And maybe not pass out at the sight of him, or after they get the notes." Jason let out a deep sigh. “And I don't have contacts outside either league for a magic expert.”

“I’m guessing you don’t want someone associated with the JL?”

“Absolutely not. I need someone trustworthy. Who isn’t going to judge Danny for who he is, or what we are. And isn’t going to sell us out to the league.”

“What about Raven?” dick asked after a moment to think. “She’s a bit difficult to get in contact with. But I mean she is the least judgmental person I know. And not a huge fan of the league.”

“How’s her knowledge on inter dimensional gods?”

“I mean Trigon is her dad, so probably better than nothing. Definitely more than mine or yours.” dick answered. “What does that have to do with Danny?”

“You are in a bad mood, and I don't feel like breaking your brain on top of it. I need to check in with Roy to make sure he didn’t fall off the wagon for a while after the talk we had so I'm going to put that talk off for a while. How about you can find out if Danny meets raven. And she will probably explain it better than he did.”

“That bad?” dick asked with a cringe.

“Oh, you have no idea. And you really don’t want to know, but you are probably gonna find out at some point. Maybe check in with Roy once in a while too.”

Dick cringed harder. “Yeah. i can say i haven’t done well to keep up on that. How’s Lian?”

“Doing good. Her and Danny chat it up a bit sometimes. I fear them meeting. But it’s inevitable.” Jason let out a deep sigh. “I got shit to do. So I'm gonna go.”

“Pictures. Don’t forget the pictures.”

“Right. Later dick face.” and Jason hung up on him.

Chapter Text

“You’ve been down here for quite some time master Tim.” Alfred said, walking up to his middle grandson with a glass of water, and a decaf cup of coffee. If it was laced with sleep meds well that was between him and god. “Perhaps a break from your current project is in order.”

“Alfred I have one of their com units and I can’t figure out how to open a line.'' Tim said, voice laced with frustration. “Me!” Tim shouted, throwing up his hands.``and it looks like it was made from literal garbage. This is a 5 year old bluetooth headphone ripped apart modified and stuffed inside some cheesy cat ear headband. I don’t even know how it’s working! I can’t find a power source. And it’s got something that looks and sets off the computer tests as lazarus water. Or kryptonite or both. I get false positives on one or the other or both or none. Any time I run it through the scanner. I even changed the parameters of the scanner for when we do test kryptonite.”

“That sounds like some progress master Tim. The equipment isn’t just going to disappear from the cave. I do believe your testing can be continued at a later date just as successfully.” Alfred passed the cups to Tim once his hands were still once more.

“Why is he building tech with broken junk? It makes no sense. All the bats have state of the art equipment. Jason can hit any of our safe houses or ask for parts and he’d get it.”

“Perhaps they are just being resourceful.'' Alfred suggested. “He doesn't seem to require state of the art equipment to give you a puzzle it seems.”

“Very funny Alfred.” Tim snarked but took to drinking his coffee. “If it was based on ours I would be able to get into it easier. But I don't know if it’s intentional or not. Schrodinger makes no sense to me. Dick is attached already. And so is the demon brat. And he likes the demon brat back!”

“And what of you master Tim, what are your feelings on miss Kyle’s young ward?”

“That he is a dumb kid, who has no business being out on the streets of Gotham alone at night. And is more paranoid than Batman of all the wrong people.'' Tim scrubbed his face. “Jason seems to really care about him. To the point I'd believe he had mind control powers of some sort, except if he did, why wouldn't he use them on me and batman? Why just dick, Jason, Damian, Croc, Grundy. So that leaves like just genuinely liked.'' Tim grumbled.

“And does it bother you master Tim that he is liked?”

“If the kid can get along with Waylon, Damian, and Jason, why can’t I seem to build a connection with him?'' Tim pouted, but he would deny it if called on it. “Am I just that unlikeable?” his frown deepened. “Is that why everyone tries to kill me?”

“No master Tim, I believe that is misplaced anger and jealousy. Neither of those incidents were your fault. Nor were they in any way acceptable.'' Alfred said gently. “Perhaps, you could make an effort to gain a bond of your own.'' Alfred picked up one of the pieces. “The boy seems to have a skill set you can relate to. Why not broach that subject with him?'' Tim grew quiet while mulling over Alfred's words. While sipping his coffee. He was halfway through it before he realized his mistake and Alfred stood by dutifully as his eyelids grew too heavy to hold open anymore.

********************************************

“Father once there has been a sighting of Schrodinger, I will be once again patrolling alone.” Damian informed his father in his study. He stood tall in front of Bruce's desk. Head held high and body squared off as if intimidating a thug on the streets of Gotham.

“Damian, I know you are fond of Selina's ward. But it is obvious he does not have the best skills of deduction or reason. You patrolling with someone so unprepared is not a risk I want you taking.”

“All the more reason for me to patrol with him. It allows us to build our case file on him. And allows me to work on properly training him in our methods. Or at the very least to provide ample instruction. He is able to follow directions with more success than Stephanie, Jason, or Timothy. Eager to do so even. I will have back up should the rare event i am in need of one. And Schrodinger is kept under a skilled watchful eye. It also allows us to build trust with Jason and the siren’s again.”

“It’s obvious they haven’t lost their trust in you Damian. Or they wouldn’t allow Schrodinger to patrol with you at all." Bruce tried to console his son. “Their problem is with me. And I plan to get to the bottom of it before they do something rash. But that doesn’t mean I'm ok with sending you out there with an unknown player.”

“Do you not trust me to handle a situation that could come up on simple patrol? I have handled the last few just fine. The only thing that has changed is we have more information than before.”

“Yes and that information leads to belief that Schrodinger could be affected by the lazarus pits much like Jason is. And someone is trying to experiment on people who have been dipped in the pits.”

“Schrodinger does not have pit madness. Of any kind. I do believe I have more knowledge on matters where the lazarus pits are concerned father.”

“Damian, I do not want to risk you being injured or worse because of your attachment…”

“Are you alright with risking Schrodinger's well being for the sake of my own father? Because I am not. And I do not believe it would be right to do so as Robin either. Robin is a protector of the citizens of Gotham. And that includes Schrodinger." Damian cut his father off coldly.

“No Damian, i don’t want to sacrifice Schrodinger’s well being. He would be better off, off the streets at night.”

“He will not be contained, that much is obvious father. Or Selina and Jason would have done so themselves. The question is do you allow him to flutter at our ranks to learn to do better? Or push him away into danger?” Damian stared down his father in challenge.

Bruce did so in kind. Before finally conceding. “I want a detailed patrol route and cases you plan to investigate. No recon with Schrodinger.”

“I am not a fool father. I know his limits are short. I would never dream of compromising a case by taking him on recon. He couldn’t be still or quiet for more than 10 minutes. And that is a struggle. It is one of the skills I plan to work on cultivating in him. I believe it best to take a step back from general case work except for the Schrodinger one for now. And stick with petty crime as we come across it. I can divide up my current cases and debrief the rest of my siblings so that progress is not lost on them.”

That had Bruce raising a brow at his youngest son. His more territorial child when it came to his cases. “You are willing to give up your cases to do only general street patrol?”

“Yes. I believe this case is more important. There are many pieces to an ever growing puzzle. We need to learn why we are losing allies. We need to gain them back. And one inexperienced meta needs training. I am more than capable of providing that training. And have gained the trust of the target. I’m the only one making head way.'' Damian frowned. “I’m also concerned for our alliance with the justice league. We should be working on building our allies' trust with the league. We need to tread carefully while expanding our information gathering. In case of a mole or traitor, but I would like to bring in more trusted allies to work on that front.”

“And what is your suggestion?”

“I’d like to bring Jon in. He could partner with me, to give you peace of mind for my patrols would not be solo with an unknown only. And it could start to foster trust between another league affiliated hero and Schrodinger.”

Bruce's training is the only thing that kept the grimace off his face at his son's request. On one hand it had merit, on the other it was allowing an outside hero, a super powered one at that, to work his streets. He already had one clueless meddling meta fumbling around his streets to add another. But Damian had a point, the siren’s cut them off, thinking the league to betray them to protect a kid. The league needed to earn their trust. And it probably wouldn't hurt Schrodinger to get a few more connections his own age. Since he seemed to have a habit of befriending adult rogues. Or former ones.

“I have conditions…” Bruce finally forced out. It did take more effort to ignore Damian's proud grin and the subtle shift in his shoulders. Some of the fight leaving him. “I want you to prepare a presentation on Gotham specific dangers for metas to be aware of and to avoid along with rogues they should strictly avoid engaging with due to their risks. This presentation must be completed, approved by myself and Jon will watch it and pass a test of my own creation before he goes out on patrol with you.”

“I find your terms acceptable father.”

“Good. They weren’t negotiable.”

Chapter Text

Danny looked around the bus he was on trying to be subtle about it. He had felt it when the bus pulled up, but he didn't want to wait an hour for the next one. But the itch of magic brushing against him was starting to feel more intentional. But it was Gotham, nobody really stood out. A few day drunks, retail and fast food works an old lady with her roller cart probably. Nobody screamed magic person. He lifted his phone, turning up his headphones to distract from the uncomfortable feeling. Catching the buzz of a text.

You're anxious. What's up? Jason's message glowed on his screen.

Don't know. I got on my bus, but there is a magic user in here. It feels like they are prodding at me. I can't tell if it's malicious or curious. But it's uncomfortable. Danny texted back.

Get your jacket on, zip it up. Hood up, do you have that medical face mask with you? Jason texted back.

Danny fisted in his pocket, and texted back yes.

Next stop, get off like it's your normal one. Be casual. If they follow, find a way to block line of sight and go invisible and head back towards school.

Ok. Danny sent back. Doing as Jason said. Once the bus came to a stop Danny grabbed his backpack and got off. Heading back the way the bus came from. Hopefully robin was still at school. Because Danny actually wasn’t sure how to get there from here. But he knew he went to the same school as robin so he could sense him easily there. And was expertly avoiding him if you asked danny.

A little ways down the street, Danny felt the magic presence start to get close again prodding at him more incessantly.

Being followed. Danny sent Jason via text cutting into the first alley. He ducked behind a dumpster and turned invisible and intangible cutting through several buildings to get another path way of alleys. He kept invisible but didn’t go back out to the pain roadways.

Yellow bat is coming to get you. Go with him. I’ll meet you. Danny saw when his phone buzzed again. He felt the magical presence again. How were they catching up to him? Who the heck was yellow bat and how were they going to find each other.? Danny ducked into another narrow alley still invisible and tucked himself carefully behind a dumpster making himself as small as possible while able to jump up at a moment's notice. He was probably going to have to fight whoever this person was. Maybe if he gets a good look at them or a picture Hood can find him and scare him off later. He needed to think who was the yellow bat? Robin told him about a bunch of them but he didn’t remember the name yellow bat. He felt the magic against his skin stronger. Like something was grabbing him. And then a figure jumped down in front of him in the alley. Danny was on his feet in an instant ectoblast glowing in his hand eyes a neon green. He kept up his invisibility.

“Easy, Schrodinger right? I’m here to help. Hood sent me. I’m not going to hurt you.” the older teen said hands up in a placating manner. He was dressed in yellow armor, with a bat logo on his chest.

“Are you yellow bat? You can see me like this?” Danny asked lowering his fist but his ectoblast though receded a bit wasn’t gone.

Duke let out a deep sigh. “No, I'm signal. But Hood calls me yellow bat cause he’s an ass. And sorta. You kind of glow.”

Danny dissipated his ectoblast and dropped his invisibility. “Robin said signal is a meta hero on day patrol.” he was now grabbing at his own arms. Feeling the magic grow. Signal could see Schrodinger with a green glow similar to the hatters office. But far duller. But what concerned duke was a layering of red and yellow over parts of him where Schrodinger was grabbing at his arms.

“Yep, that's me. And Robin is getting suited up. We are going to meet him at a safe house. But we need to get you out of here now. I can see the energy on you." Duke moved closer to Schrodinger holding out a hand. When Danny took it gingerly. Duke pulled him in close, lifting him up. “This might feel weird, but don’t be scared. Just don’t let go of me ok?”

“Ok,'' Danny answered, wrapping his arms around the Duke's neck. Duke kept an arm around his back. Noticing just how light the kid was. Once duke was sure Danny was secure he grappled towards a dark corner of a building and dropped them into the shadows, swinging in and out of them headed for the safe house close to school Damian was getting changed in. they thought a familiar face would be better. Signal brought them both inside through the shadows. Danny had relaxed as he felt Robin get closer. Letting go of signal and dropping to the floor once he had his bearings. “Uh thanks.” Danny said backing up a bit

“Can you still feel any magic? I don’t see it on you anymore?” Duke asked as Schrodinger slowly backed away from him.

“Did you see his pursuer?” Robin asked, stepping out of the dark.

“I didn’t. I’m heading back out to look. You ok staying here till Hood arrives?” signal asked Schrodinger who had moved closer to robin once he had the boys attention.

“Yeah I'm good I think….” They both watched him seize up a bit pulling his martian manhunter hoodie strings tight. “Or not. They are close again. What? Why?” Schrodinger whined.

Robin drew his sword. “We will not allow your pursuer to take you. Do you recognize the magic from any of your previous bouts with the organization that tries to lay claim to you?”

“What?” Danny peaked his eyes out of his hood losing the strings. “Giw doesn’t use magic. They are techy-science based. Which I mean is probably worse. I can only sense them when they are really close or have some tech that needs a lot of ecto to power it. Even then it’s a blip, because there's no sentient core.” Danny tilted his head “but I mean they are just easier to spot normal than that.”

“How so?” Duke wanted anything he had to reference in his search.

“I mean they look like men in black rejects in their all white suits and vehicles.” Schrodinger was squeezing at his arms again and Duke could see the red and yellow glow start back up again slowly.

“You are joking?” Robin asked unamused.

“No. That's why they are called the guys in white.”

“Ok so new player. And what are they doing to you?” Duke asked. “Can you tell what the spell is doing?”

“It’s like bugs are crawling on me or something. Like prodding, or eyes I don't know. It’s just uncomfortable.” Danny shook his head trying to shake out his arms. “Oh,” Schrodinger's eyes went wide. “Don’t freak out! And close your eyes!” was the only warning he got out before his transformation rings went across him. Luckily both boys had gotten their eyes closed in time. But signal still needed to blink some spots from his vision. And Schrodinger was now in an all white get up of his schrodinger costume. And the glow was less inside the lines more so outside the lines. “Surprise.” he said weekly hovering and giving a small wave with a cringe.

“Did you just have a magical girl transformation?” signal asked. “Like an anime?”

“Not on purpose.” he pouted. “But uh, i can’t seem to change back and this makes me very trackable by the GIW and uh there is no shielding here like in crime alley.”

“And probably whoever is following you.” Robin said, staring at Schrodinger with a careful eye. Schrodinger shrinking more and more under his gaze. “Signal patrol the immediate area for our suspect. I will keep you informed via the coms. Oracle are you able to get any recordings or information through?”

“Some static on coms but no cameras are not usable within a block of you guys.”

“Can you fix that issue with the camera’s?” Robin asked Schrodinger. He got a so-so hand motion. signal caught dimming of the glow as he left the safe house to do as asked.

“Um sorry for causing problems for you again.” Schrodinger said softly as oracle confirmed she had some visuals back.

“Your safety is not a problem. Your attempted assailants are.” Robin clarified moving Schrodinger to the most defensible part of the safe house. Close to a bathroom that had an escape hatch hidden to the roof. They could use Schrodinger's powers to go through the door and buy them time. “Though I am not pleased with the circumstances, I am glad to see you are well. I have been concerned after your disappearance.”

“Is that why you’ve been patrolling around crime alley?” Danny asked. “Is signal a teenager?”

Robin raised a brow at him, “yes.” Robin answered both the questions.

“Cool. he seems nice. I don’t like that he can see me when I'm invisible, he’s not dead adjacent enough for that." Schrodinger said, pulling at his arms again with a frown.

Robin smirked. “You will have to work on new skills to keep my brother from noticing you, i’m sure he is not the only one you will find is immune to your powers.”

“Booo, I don't like it.” Danny pouted. He was staring at his skin again, having pulled back his sleeve. Robin noted the green tinge to his very pale skin. It was a stark contrast from how he looked before the change.

“Is the magic still causing you issues?” Robin asked tensed.

“I don’t know. I don’t have a lot of experience with magic outside ghost magic, which i mean is technically magic but i understand it more from a biology and physics standpoint. I have no idea what this is. It’s not ecto.”

“That is not good. I must admit, most of the batclan has limited knowledge on magic, we have contacts for that.” he hit his com again. “Signal, have you come across anything suspicious? Schrodinger is still being affected.”

“I haven’t spotted anything yet, but I don't know what I'm looking for either. I’m kind of having to lean on my powers for anything, giving off something weird.”

“Oracle, have you picked up anything on the camera’s?” Robin asked.

“Not really, I got the bus route from Hood, but the camera’s weren’t working from where hood said our kitty boy got on. To where I assume he got off.” Schrodinger gave a slight cringe.

“You noticed the magic on the bus, correct? Describe some individuals.” Robin hoped the catboy could at least handle some simple observation skills.

“I don’t know, just normal people. Some fast food employees, bat burger, tacobell, kfc. Some retail workers, an old lady, a couple of day drunks." Schrodinger tried to explain.

“Day drunks?” Oracle asked. “Robin.”

“Yes, can you describe any of the individuals who you thought were day drunks?” Robin prompted.

“Uh drunk? Stinky? Dirty?” Schrodinger said with a shrug shaking out his limbs aggressively. The temperature was slowly dropping in the safe house. Schrodinger didn’t notice but Robin and his suit sensors did.

“Any blondes? In business attire?” oracle asked deadpan.

“Yeah there was a blonde guy. He was passed out. In a trench coat.”

“Constantine. B is going to kick his ass.” Oracle came over the com.

“Looking for John Constantine, got it.” signal said. “He obviously doesn’t want to be found. He has to know I'm out and he’s dodging me.”

“Keep a tight perimeter then. It should delay him closing in if he’s avoiding you." Robin directed.

“Uh-oh…” Robin heard Schrodinger say. He turned to see the boy watching ice climb up a wall. “So I think your friend is shorting out my powers or something, or cutting off my control. And that’s bad. So I need a big favor, so something really bad doesn’t happen.”

“He is not my friend.” Robin said sharply. But he couldn’t stop the jerk as he watched Schrodinger shove his whole hand into his chest. And pull out an odd soup thermos. “What are you doing?”

“So um, kind of a big ask. Cause I know it’s your dad. But I don't have a better idea. This is called a thermos. It soups up ghosts. And contains them. Kind of like a pokeball does pokemon.”

“Excuse me!” Oracle and Signals voices came over the coms. Schrodinger's phone was vibrating erratically in his backpack pocket. That he slid off and dropped to the floor.

“Is it safe?” Robin asked Schrodinger, meeting his eye. His breath was turning to snow in front of him.

“It’s uncomfortable, but it doesn’t hurt. It’s kind of like keeping a cat in a travel cage. And like that, um i can’t get out unless someone lets me out from the outside. But it should also block someone outside from hurting me or tapping into my powers or whatever this dude is doing.” Schrodinger said quickly. “But that’s better than going Elsa on Gotham or worse.” he sheepishly handed it to robin. “Pop the top button on the bottom. Hit it again to let me out. But uh, tell hood it was my idea. Or he will def lose his mind. But please don’t give me to your dad.”

Robin carefully took the thermos from Schrodinger. “I will protect you with my life. You have my word.” he held his pinky for Schrodinger to link with.

“Maybe don’t do that. You’re not dead yet. I am.” Schrodinger smiled at his finger. “I don’t want to do an anna to you. So I'm not going to touch you directly. Soup me up scotty.”

Robin frowned at the phrase, similar to ones Dick Duke and Stephanie have made before. But he took off the lid and pointed it at Schrodinger and hit the button watching the boy disappear inside in a stream of light.

“I don’t have any interference on anything now.” oracle said. “And i’m a little scared to take the com call from hood.”

“Me too. Still haven’t spotted Constantine.”

“Patch him in.”

“The hell is happening?” Hood asked. “Where’s the kid? He was scared and then I lost connection and he wasn’t answering his phone.”

“Schrodinger’s powers are being disrupted. He transformed and started icing over the safe house. We believe John Constantine is the culprit. Considering our information, if he can do that to Schrodinger, you might be affected by the spell if you are in the area or he might be directing specifically at Schrodinger. We do not have an exact understanding of what he is doing, no will we unless we find him. I advise you to avoid the area until we have confronted him.”

“Why can’t I feel Schrodinger if his powers are haywire? It should be easier.” hood growled.

Robin’s frown deepened as he looked at the simple metal cylinder in his hands. “He had me soup him as he called it to keep from causing harm.”

There was a long pause before hood’s caused all three vigilantes to flinch. “He what?!!!”

“I will keep him protected, hood.” Robin responded, clipping the device to his belt tucked away in his cape. “We need help hunting down Constantine though. I do not wish to approach him with Schrodinger vulnerable. And you should not either.”

“I’ll shoot the bastard in broad daylight, I don't care. Do not…”

“I wish to call the younger supers.” Robin cut him off.

“Oh Batman is going to lose his mind.” signal said over the coms.

“What about Catwoman and Ivy? They don’t draw as much attention in civics." Oracle tried to switch.

“Cats out of town on a job, so are Harley and ivy. That’s why I'm coming.”

“You can not.” Robin said sharply. “The supers are known to be active during the day. And Constantine knows their affiliation.”

“Not in Gotham. Those fly boys will draw so much attention.”

“They can stay in the smog cover.” Robin argued.

“Oh we are so dead.”

“Jon, I need Connor and you to come to my location to find John Constantine for interrogation.” Robin spoke out loud. He walked up to the window just as Jon’s face popped up

“Hey Robin. Where am I looking?”

“Listen, for spell casting phrases most likely softly spoken. Direct signal to the location when you find him.”

“Here here, I heard you going.” Connor said, flying up behind his little brother. Ruffling his hair. “Are we detaining him?”

“If he refuses to stop, yes.” Robin answered, beckoning them off. Just as Batman came on to the coms.

“What are the superboys doing in Gotham oracle?”

“I called them father. John Constantine is causing an issue. We are struggling to locate him.”

“demon….” hood gave a warning tone.

“Hood? Is the issue with Schrodinger?”

“He is stalking him and shorting out his powers. It has been temporarily handled. But hood may also be affected and cannot com fetch his sidekick.”

“Hood doesn’t have powers.”

“Keep telling yourself whatever you have to sleep at night old man. And he’s not my sidekick.”

“Found him!” Jon's voice came over the coms. Because Robin trained him well, and made sure he was prepared for last minute missions.

“Heading to his location with superboy.” signal came over the com.

“Do you need a pick up robin?” Jon asked.

“No, I need to keep my distance to protect Schrodinger. Hood is Croc or Grundy in the sewers? Can one of them head to my location for a trade off while the others keep Constantine occupied?”

“Grundy was already headed to you and yeah that works.”

“Good. I am going to rendezvous with Grundy then." Robin collected Schrodinger's things, putting on the back pack. “Kick him out of the city. Or physically drop him out.” Robin gave Jon the directions he carefully climbed out the window and dropped down into the alley to get to the worker access to the sewers. Making his way to crime alley.

“Get information from him on what exactly he’s trying to do.” Batman ordered.

“I don’t have him on any camera.” oracle came in.

“Yeah, I'm not so good at that. Maybe signal can." Jon replied, headed to help con and signal.

“Getting him to stop is the more pressing matter.” Robin stated as he made his way down the sewers monitoring the lines.

“He wants a fight he can come face me directly tonight.” Hood said.

“I’m not suggesting that.” signal said. “Hey John, I don't know what you are up to in Gotham but I need you to stop. Now.”

***************************************

Hey, have you checked twitter? There is some chatter about one or two supers being spotted in Gotham. Dick texted Babs.

Constantine is stalking Schrodinger and doing something to his powers. We needed help finding him. Babs texted back

Dick sat up straight in his chair at the police station. glaring at his phone. Oh he was making a night trip to Gotham again.

****************************

What are you doing in Gotham? I didn’t call you? Tim texted his team mate.

Your brother asked for back up. Constantine is doing something to someone named Schrodinger? Idk. helping signal confront.

“Oh fuck.” Tim put his head in his hands. He got up to head to Bruce's office. Quickly shutting the door behind him. Bruce was frowning deeply on his com. And the signal and sound scrambler that worked on everything but their tech was on. He pulled his own com from his pocket. “Guess John isn’t here because of you?” he got a deadpan stare in return.

Chapter Text

“I’m not suggesting that.” Signal said. “Hey John, I don't know what you are up to in Gotham but I need you to stop. Now.” he dropped down in front of the man, way too close to the safe house for his comfort. Superboy came up behind him and Jon eventually hovered over top. Just in case.

“You know we all have our own jobs. It’s best you keep to yours and I keep to mine ya?” John said to the kids. Keeping his spell going. He needed to figure out more accurately what this creature was, and he had been so close drawing it’s magic out. For it to suddenly cut off.

“You know you are not allowed to operate in Gotham without Batman's permission. And I have been informed you don’t have it.” signal said hands on his hips.

“On the contrary i was invited by Nightwing.'' John said, carefully watching the bunch of teenagers. John hated dealing with teenagers.

“Yeah the rest of us haven't heard about that. And i kind of doubt it, considering who you were attacking with that spell.”

“A who huh? So you know the entity who tried to toss that poor sob in the nightmare realm eh?” John pulled out his cigarette, lighting it with his finger. He caught the flinch from the kid. Probably said too much. “How about you point me in the direction the thing went and…”

“He is not a thing. He is Robin's friend and you were scaring him." Superboy 2 shouted at john.

“Superboy, don’t tell him anything.” the older Superboy scolded. These kids needed new names.

“Look kiddies, making friends with powerful death magic entities is all fun and games till something sets them off. They get pissy and forget everything around them on this plane isn’t able to withstand their tantrums or don’t care what happens. It’s best to be sent on its way home." John said with a sigh.

“Could you be mistaken?” signal asked.

“Excuse you, I am the occult expert here.” John sassed what’s this one’s name again. “Who are you again kid?”

“Signal.” he said with a tired sigh. Then he cringed. “If i say that, is robin going to stab me in my sleep? I’m not asking that without clarification that I'm not getting stabbed." John lifted his brow at the kid. And Superboy slapped his forehead.

“Are ghosts on your list of dangerous death magic entities Mr. Constantine?” Superboy two asked lowering down a bit to john’s level but out of arm's reach.

“Ghosts? Is that what it said it was?”

“You call him an it one more time, and robin’s gonna stab you before red hood shoots you.” Connor warned him.

“He hasn’t told us out right, but inference is ghost yeah.” signal said with a tired sigh.

“Huh, wondering why red hasn’t asked Greta about him…” Connor said.

“Because he just said it like 5 minutes ago. And it doesn’t make sense cause he’s very much so not dead. And neither is hood.” signal said, but kept his eyes on John's hands.

“Kiddies, Deadman’s a ghost. I know the bat keeps tabs on everyone in the league. Your friend like that?”

“No. We can all see him and he has a weird mix of powers.” Signal answered.

“Not surprising. What put the work on the hatter was it? Way more power than yer average bloody ghost.” John clarified.

“What about ectoplasma?” what does that mean to you?” Connor asked.

“Uh why'd you ask that?” signal asked

“Red asked me too.”

“Robin is upset. Said you are providing too much information to the enemy.”

John just raised a brow at all the teens. All on completely different pages. But ectoplasma was not a word he was expecting any of them to know. Interesting tied with ghost, that gives quite a bit of insight. But ghosts trapped in this plane aren’t strong enough to match what he got a hold of that sorry bloke.

“Uh batman would like you to cease your current investigation, and meet him this evening at the batcave to debrief him.” Signal said. He seemed disappointed in that.

“Considering I lost the bugger for now, sure.” John liked watching the bats kid cringe mumble into his com. Daddy bats wasn't on the same page as the kids. Interesting.

“So, are we detaining him till then or not?” Superboy asked.

“Like to see ya try mate.”

“Robin would prefer that he is watched so he doesn't go after Schrodinger again.” Superboy 2 said.

“Yer supposed ghosty goes by Schrodinger eh?” interesting choice. Combined with the kids saying he seemed lively. . . But ectoplasma was tied to one realm. And that didn't bode well. “I don't need a sitter. I can behave. So long as yer little friend doesn't do anything rash.”

“He doesn't. He's a good kid. He pulls pranks is his most dastardly deeds. Harmless pranks.” Signal said sharply. “He has enough on his plate. Just leave him alone.”

“Tell batsy I'll be there tonight.” He answered with. Using a spell to teleport away quickly. He had some research to do.

Chapter Text

Damian had every intention of handing over the thermos to Grundy to deliver to jason. But when grundy had instead hefted him up into his arms and carried him like a ragdoll back towards crime alley. Though Damian found himself annoyed with the manhandling. He was not opposed to being allowed to finish the journey with schrodinger.

“I am more than capable of making this trek under my own man power, grundy. I am not a child who needs this level of micromanaging.'' Damian protested. Getting a rough pat to the head.

“You doing ok down there robin?” oracle came over the coms.

“Other than my pride, yes.” Robin answered. “Grundy seems to regard me much like schrodinger and i am being treated as an unruly child.”

“Sounds like Grundy has better reasoning skills than schrodinger.” Tim's voice came in over the coms.

“Drake, I will ensure you face my wrath during our next spar.”

“Omph downgraded back to the last name.” Signal came over the line.

“No chatter on the coms.” batman's voice came over with a tired sigh. “Red robin and i need to return to other tasks. But i expect a full debrief as soon as we can all arrive back at the cave. And i expect the supers to return home. As you’ve already disregarded our procedure robin.”

“It was an urgent matter, father. I do not regret it. Nor would I change it.”

“We will discuss it later. Batman out.”

“So can you block the others from the coms?” signal asked oracle tentatively.

“Already done.” oracle answered.

“No one is to speak of this cursed device to father or red robin. That includes you superboy. I know where my father keeps the kryptonite and I will hunt you down.” Damian spoke.

“Kon wants to know why you are hiding things from Red Robin.” Jon's voice came in over the coms.

“Because that fool is as bad as father and will not stop till he has recreated this prison even if he does not intend to use it. But just knowing he did so will cause hood and catwoman to cut us all off from Schrodinger. And that is not what we need. We need them to trust us to help them. And father would use it to force answers faster.”

“Damian, are you upset he called it a pokeball? Because you really did not like that show.” Jon asked. Also Kon says yeah he would.”

“It glorifies animal abuse. And if his description of these conditions are accurate I do not believe Schrodinger should endure such unjustly.”

“Kon wants to know how sure you are that Schrodinger isn’t a threat, considering what Mr. Constantine said.”

“The only threat that idiot poses is to himself!” Damian defended.

“He really is a prankster. The thing with hatters aside. I can’t really blame the kid. Even if Batman thinks it was too far.” signal stated. “His pranks are pretty harmless. Glitter bombs, jump scares, i mean the same pranks us batkids do to each other. But he uses his powers to help him.”

“He also does partake in vigilante work. He has helped stop human traffickers, many muggings, a few drug deals. Many with little to no injuries, he prefers to frighten the criminals." Damian spoke.

“So not pranks like Klarion?” Kon was met with a long silence.

“No.” signal and Damian spoke.

“And do not put that comparison into the file oracle.” Damian stated.

“Hey, Nightwing wants on the coms. He uh, I'm going to tap him in.” oracle said before any of the boys could protest.

“Anybody got me a location on where John went to hide away at? Cause i’m going to go beat his ass and get Zee to help me.”

“So you didn’t invite him here like he said.” signal stated.

“He answered my call for help dealing with hatter. He woke him up. But he even said he was going to wake up on his own in a few days. I told him to back off and pack out when started talking shit about our favorite kitty boy.” Nightwing growled out. “How is our kitten? Is he ok? Why aren’t we picking him up on coms with Damian? He’s never this quiet.”

“Classified information.” Jon answered.

“Are we hiding it from B?” Nightwing asked.

“The smaller the pool that knows the less likely it is to get out to the parties who should have it least.” Damian stated.

“Got it. So did Constantine hurt him?” dick asked brushing right past.

“He disrupted Schrodinger's powers to the point he felt the only avenue to prevent a catastrophe was to provide us with a method of neutralizing him.” Signal stated as vaguely as possible. Dick met the news with silence.

“I’m taking him back to the alley where he and hood can hopefully avoid the conman.”

“And Batman has a meeting with him tonight to discuss our kitty boy.”

“Yeah if you want plausible deniability stay off my coms tonight oracle.” dick answered. “I’m hoping off. I’m proud of you guys.” and dick got off.

“Did we just get a vote of approval from the first born to lie to B?” signal asked.

“Tsk, Nightwing is not a fool. And knows when father is being unreasonable.”

“You guys know Nightwing was the original rebel sidekick right?” oracle said. “Like going head to head against B is his bread and butter.”

“Superboy, I shall contact you again after I've faced father for my perceived transgression. I suggest using the time to study up on the materials I sent you.”

“You think he’s still going to let us have a playdate?”

Signal didn’t hide his snort very well.

“It is not a play date, it is patrol, and data collection for my case. We are not toddlers.” Damian reprimanded.

“Ok. i won’t let you down robin.” and with that jon signed off the coms.

“I believe I am close too…” Damian silenced himself as he felt Schrodinger's powers wash over him, noticing it was also affecting grundy. But according to the boy that shouldn’t have been possible. He felt the loss of gravity as he and grundy moved up through the earth and infrastructure onto the ground above. He noticed they came out inside a barren room covered in stains. A single metal chair inside. Taking in his surroundings though while still held in grundy’s arm.

“Alright, demon brat, hand the cat over now.” red hood said coming into view in front of them arms hung loosely at his sides. More uniformly than Schrodinger normally chose to do. No fading. Damian also took note his coms seemed to be dead.

Grundy released his hold on robin who quickly dropped to the ground coming up with the thermos in hand. He uncapped it just as instructed and took the time to point it at the ground in between them. Pressing the button on the bottom. A flash of light appeared from the device and upon its receding a dazed all white kitty boy was left in its wake. Damian and hood both kneeled down to help the boy sit up as he looked around. “Huh, that wasn’t as long as i was expecting it to be.” he said with a groan and a flash of light. Returning to his civilian attire. The medical mask and hood are still in place. He rubbed at his eyes before looking up again. “Oh hey hood! The bluetooth worked. I was totally able to hear my playlist inside the thermos.”

Robin frowned at the catboy, as if entertainment available in his confinement was important. Luckily hood felt the same.

“Seriously? That’s the first thing you want to tell me?”

“Yeah why wouldn’t it be?”

“Schrodinger, in the many things that have happened in just the last hour, your ability to entertain yourself is the least pressing.”

He got a pout for his words. “But it is important. I could actually kind of track time. It wasn’t as claustrophobic and isolating that way. I’ve never been able to do that before. That’s an improvement. And now I can explain how long their punishment is gonna be when I soup other ghosts.”

“Is that why you built this horrible device?” Robin scolded.

“No, my parents did. I just modified it so it actually worked. And didn’t hurt the ghosts who got sucked in. it used to shock them non-stop to weaken them, and stabilize their ecto enough for my parents to get samples that didn’t dissipate right away when they cut into it.”

“Kiddo. Stop going on a motor mouth spree. TMI.” Hood said exasperated. Checking him over. He also ignored Robin's glare, knowing he relies on the kid not really knowing what he should and should not share.

“I’m surprised you did not threaten me as soon as I arrived.” Robin noted.

“Why would hood do that?”

“I was listening to the coms. Even if I wasn't talking. You did good demon brat.”

“Is the magic man gone?”

“No, but we have bought time and nightwing intends to have words with him.” Robin answered. “Will you…”

“Already up to date with nightwing. And I gave him the green light to deal with it. You willing to play distraction on Batman if he fails?” hood asked.

“Yes, signal is onboard too.” Robin said with a nod.

“You up to some heavy lifting Schrodinger?” Hood asked.

“Yeah?” he said, a bit confused.

“Get grundy to the main floor. And stay in the house with him and croc. I’m taking robin to meet up with his own people.

Robin raised a hand to draw attention. “Before I make my leave, would you be comfortable meeting the youngest superboy on patrol with me once you are allowed to leave crime alley again?”

“Like to hang out? With a real life alien? “ Robin squinted as Schrodinger's whole being started to glow and he floated while violently moving his fists up and down. Hood let out a completely unfiltered sigh as the wide glowing eyes turned on him for permission.

“Fuck it. Why not? Sure. probably feed ya better than the documentaries." Robin seized up a bit at the sound of grundy laughing behind them. The sound is unsettling in its unexpectedness. “But that’s not happening till we have assurances Constantine is gone.”

“I concur with that assessment.” Robin handed off Schrodinger's bag. Standing.

“Alright. Grundy upstairs, then homework. We got a call coming in from the ladies tonight. Go shoo.”

“Aye, aye captain.” Danny saluted the older, “later robin! I can’t wait for our playdate.” and with that Danny flew up grabbed grundy and phased them threw the ceiling.

“It is not a playdate! It is patrol!" Robin shouted at the floor knowing the boy could hear him. He ignored Hood's modulated chuckle.

“Come on, i got clothes for you to change into. Alfie is meeting us to get you home.” with that Jason threw some clothes at him. From seemingly nowhere before walking through the door in the room. At Least hood was confirming to him that he and Schrodinger had the same powers.

Chapter Text

Constantine let out a pained noise as he hit the wall of the dingey motel he was staying in. pinned in place by a strong magic he knew well. “Now come on love? What a bloke like me do to get yer knickers in such a twist?”

“I’m here as a favor, since you seem to have upset my favorite little birdies.” Zatanna said with a sigh, as the motel door opened closing behind her once threw.

“Now come off…” Constantine was cut off as nightwing's escrima sticks landed cross ways across his neck; he had to close his eyes from the electrical arcing being too bright to close. He clenched his fist in annoyance. Opening them once the electricity ceased.

“The wrong birds.” Nightwing said in a growl a few inches from his face. “I told you to drop this.”

“Nightwing. I said I would facilitate a chat and keep John quiet. Not you taking out your anger on him.” Zee scolded. Nightwing removed his weapons while doing a feint of a headbutt at John who just rolled his eyes.

“Zee you can’t be siding with him. You know better than anyone how much the bats know nothing of the occult and magics." John protested.

“Oh don’t worry, I'm going to give you the answers you want so desperately. And then Zee is going to make sure you can’t tell a soul who doesn’t already know what information. Not even batman." Nightwing gave him a smug snarl of a grin.

“Whoa, whoa, whoa… don’t be too hasty now. If we are getting one over on batsy. Now I'm not saying I wouldn't be on board with that. But seriously Zee. You don’t know the magic I felt in that spell. This thing…'' John turned his head to clear the fist that would have clocked his ear.

“Dehumanize my baby brother again and the next one is your face.” Nightwing said.

“Wha? Brucie take in some eldritch creature now too? What’s the man going for a football team?”

“No, like Damian.” dick clarified. “And they don’t know. And it’s not going to get out until his mom decides it’s safe to. There are some trust issues at play here. And you are single handedly wrecking our attempts to get them to reach out to the justice league.”

John blinked a few times at nightwing before pointing a finger from his pinned hand at the vigilante. “Whoa hold up, i know yer old man a whawe, but sleeping with other worldly creatures seems a bit out of his ole tool box.”

“His mom is human. From today's updates, ghostly sort seems to be how they are categorizing themselves. He’s a little kid who died and was revived a few years ago, like my brother Jason. You’ve heard about that haven’t you?”

“Yes, one of those glowy pits the ras is hoarding. Came back a little.'' John circled his finger by the side of his head. “Batsy didn’t want any help from our lot to look into it or sorting his boy out, you are saying there's two of them now, i get that.” John waved his hand slightly placatingly. “But I am telling you, that does match the magic on that nasty sod. Zee you can not in good conscience just write this off as their problem. This boy needs looking into, lot’s of things can change their appearance, at least let us verify, you can even still cast the spell for me not to spill to batsy. But this needs to be verified before we just write off the whole bugger. What about a nice calm face to face chat hm? We can all get answers together. Cause i know you bats, Turn into absolute wankers when you don’t have all the information you think you should. Maybe the kiddos don’t have the answers either.”

Zee looked at Nightwing who even though he was glaring at john, wasn’t throwing shit at him anymore. “That’s not necessarily a bad idea.”

“Zee!” Nightwing squawked. Gawd john hated the dramatics of the youth.

“You said Jason was looking for someone who was well versed in magic and the occult for his team he was assembling for a side project. Yes, raven is a good choice. But John is more knowledgeable overall.”

“Jason isn’t going to go for that. They think the justice league is their enemy too.”

“Well good thing I'm not part of the justice league. I’m a consultant.” John cut in with a smug grin.

“Yeah, and you just attacked our baby brother. In broad daylight. You are lucky he let me confront you alone. He wanted to put a bullet in your head, he maybe killing less, but pretty sure he’d make an exception had you caused him serious injury.”

“I wasn’t attacking him. I was trying to get answers, get a hold of a bit of the magic. I hadn’t even verified that was the same entity till you lot went all guard dog.” that got him another glare and a fist clenching. “Ask your brother. I’m willing to offer my services for free to make up for my fuck up. Can answer any question I know the answer to. And then you can take me and Zee’s assessment into consideration on your family situation from there. Hm?”

“Fine. I'll ask. And you can hang out there till he answers.” Nightwing said, pulling out a phone and typing away. “Zee if you would please make sure he can’t speak a word of my brothers to anyone who doesn’t already know the true him while we wait?”

“What not even going to wait till after our little meet up?”

“No.” Nightwing said.

“Oh come on love really?” Constantine squirmed a bit.

“Sorry John, but I don't see an issue with it. I can lift the spell if I think we need to. But if Selina doesn’t want Bruce to know about his son, I'm sure she has a good reason for it.”

“'ave you seen 'is o'her nippers? she probably wan's 'o give 'he dustbin lid a chance a' no' bein righ' fucked like 'he res' ov 'he bunch. ‘he John sucks a' raisin nippers an' 'as no business collec'in so many.”

(You've seen his other kids. She probably want to give the poor lad a chance and not be right fucked like the rest of the bunch. His dad sucks at raising kids and has no business having so many.) john said straight to zee ignoring nightwing. He got an unamused glare from zee as she started her spell. “don'' give me 'ha'. you're around 'he lo'. 'hey are so full ov daddy issues i''s nah every o'her 'eroes problem when 'hey deal wi'h 'hem.”

(Don't give me that. You're around the lot. They are full of daddy issues and it's every other heroes problem to deal with them.) John groaned as he felt the tell tale tingle go down his tongue and throat.

Chapter Text

“Something is a bit amiss here love.'' John said, lighting another cigarette as he felt their group walk across a barrier of sorts. It wasn’t any magic he recognized though which didn’t bode well. They had teleported to just outside Hood's territory and walked in across the first barrier. Right where they had been told too. Bats and their details. Now the group was walking up to a warehouse where the second one hit them. This one a bit stronger and something else layered just inside it they had yet to cross.

“I don’t recognize it either.'' Zatanna said.

“Well would you look at that. John Constantine doesn’t know everything.” Nightwing said smugly.

“Never claimed I did. But I know better than to go bummin’ around with things I don't recognize or know about. He shot back at the smarmy brat.

Nightwing walked up to the door and knocked. The door was opened by croc who growled over Nightwings head at the magicians. But he backed up and allowed them all in. the last barrier they crossed at the threshold. Inside croc could be now seen on one side with a man in a ski mask and gun trained on them. Grundy on the side of the doorway with another average thug. However that was not what held their attention as Nightwing walked past them with an awkward wave. A bit more friendly as he walked up to red hood who was more blue at the moment and what he assumes is the little teenager from the bus now in an all white kitty costume. Hoovering above his shoulders but slightly above him. His eyes visibly narrowed as he looked at the group who came in taking them in. but what Zee and John really noticed was the massive magic aura bearing down on them as soon as they crossed the barrier. A force so heavy it should have been able to be felt long before they got this close. John’s cigarette fell from his mouth as he took in the two beings back. He heard Zee gasp.

“No way!” John's head whipped to the smaller in size being, cause he certainly wasn’t the smaller in power, was making a beeline right for him.

“Schrodinger!” Hood yelled out.

The child like being, stopped inches from John's gobsmacked face. Zee is staring at them but being smart enough not to do anything rash. he was practically vibrating in place, his green glow lighting John to a sickly hue. “You’re the lead singer of Mucous membrane!” The excited child being was smiling far to wide inches from his face.

“I was, yeah.” John said stilted.

“Schrodinger, he just attacked you a few hours ago! Move away you dumbass.” Hood sounded exasperated.

“Do you know who this is?” the child pointed at him still way too close for john’s taste even as he was now leaning way to talk to red hood. Jason. Bruce’s second oldest. By god. They were all going to die. “Sam and Tuck would die!!!!! Can I have your autograph please sir? For me and my friends? We are such huge fans of yours! Your band was the inspiration for so many artists we love. It’s just amazing.'' Red hood, who by intensive purposes wasn’t much less a child, was now standing behind the younger, grabbing him on both arms, squishing him and pulling him away from Constantine. Nightwing for his part at least was poorly covering a smile with his hand.

“Calm the fuck down! You do not ask this asshole for anything ever. Quit squirming, or i’m getting the fucking leash and Nightwing is gonna sit on you.” he did, without turning his back hand the most powerful fucking entity in all of reality over to Nightwing. Telling him to stay and be calm like a dog.

“Wow, the cheapest deal you could ever make john. Aren’t you lucky he’s a fan.”

“Yeah really bloody fucking lucky. Think i’m gonna piss myself." John mumbled under his breath.

“Any comment there Constantine?” Nightwing said with his arms wrapped around the boy cuddling him. Even though he was still vibrating.

“Oh yeah I have a comment, with that lineage you say, we are all going to die.” John deadpanned.

“The fuck is that supposed to mean?” Jason growled out raising a hand with a bloody fucking flaming all blade.

“It seems i can’t say exactly what i want to say, thanks to your chum over there.” he gestured to Nightwing flippantly, “so maybe you can extrapolate.”

“John!” Zee reprimanded.

“Eh why put it off.” John went to pull out another cigarette, but it was snatched by croc out of his hand.

“You ain’t smoking in here with the kid.”

“Not even gonna let me have a last smoke? That’s some bollocks.”

“This was your idea!” Nightwing said playing at holding onto the fucking king of dead. A baby fucking king! Who the bloody hell lets a toddler duel for a throne? How the bloody fucking hell did he win it? “Kitten, he’ll give you an autograph, calm down. Oh my god. Why am I so happy?”

“Because that’s the most powerful being in all the realms who literally is made up of the embodiment of emotions. And he is extremely happy and therefore your own emotions are matching his due to proximity." John said already done with everything. He roughly scrubbed his face.

“Huh, you can tell he’s that too huh?” Hood said.

“Yes we can. Any magi is going to be able to." Zatanna said. “Any other realms beings should too.”

“Well why the fuck couldn’t i then?” Hood asked in frustration.

“You probably did and just didn’t know what it was.” Zatanna answered. “It’s unsurprising you are both very very young.” she responded gently.

“What?” Nightwing asked. Face a full grin though now the king was pouting a bit.

“Nooooooo, don’t tell him!”

“Naw fuck it, i didn’t tell him that. They can break his brain.”

“No, I don't want him to treat me differently.” the literal baby king pouted.

“Hey it’s ok.” nightwing maneuvered the now less wiggly boy to face him, getting him picked up and settled on his hip. “No matter what Connie or Zee says. I’m not going to think any differently of you ok? We are still going to be friends. And i’m still in your corner ok? Like i told you, i’m part of your new gotham family. I’m sticking it out with you not matter what.” he held up his pinky and getting hooked with his baby brother’s own.

“Well congratulations nightwing on swearing yer allegiance to the toddler king of the bloody fucking infinite realms.” Constantine cheered him digging his flask from his pocket.

“John!” Zatanna scolded him again, smacking the man with her wand.

“What do you mean toddler? He’s 13.” nightwing asked. He felt his little brother cringe in his arms.

“Well by his new species, i’m afraid he is two years old.” zee clarified, and Jason there is 8. Even though they don’t look those ages. They look the way they perceive themselves.”

“Oh…” nightwing said wide eyed. He got quiet for a moment before asking. “Is that why you eat weird things? Like toddlers trying to put everything in their mouths?” he got a shrug in response from danny.

Hood's sword dematerialized. “Well shit, why didn’t I think of that. Oh, oh no.”

“What?” croc, dick, frank and Marco asked.

“He’s going to go through the terrible twos and puberty at the same time if that’s how it works.” the four men cringed.

John threw back his whole flask in a single chug. Despite zee’s continued growing scowl at him. “Alright you bastards, we got bigger issues. Like how the bloody hell, realms babies ended up in this plane of reality, because they most certainly should not just be running around unattended here. Is that why you think you are ghosts? Because nothing stronger than a ghost should pop up on this side of the veil.”

“We are ghosts.” the toddler king protested. “Just as much as grundy is a zombie.”

“Grundy is most certainly a zombie. But you are not ghosts. To compare you to ghosts, is to compare an amoeba to a human being.” Constantine argued.

“I don’t think you know what a ghost is. Maybe you should stick with music.”

That got a snort out of zee. Oh he was going to have such a headache and it wasn’t going to be the hangover kind. “If the king danes it alright, I could summon a friend of ours who is in fact a ghost. Boston I'm sure would be honored to meet his majesty.”

“ew, “ the kid wrinkled his nose. “Don’t call me that. I’m not even the king. I’m the crown prince. Frostbite is the sitting king.” he then looked to hood. “I don’t know, what do you think? I just think he’s kinda slow. He doesn’t seem like a threat now.”

“Danny…” hood rubbed his head aggressively. “If you are planning something to attack….”

“Absolutely bloody fucking not…”

“Of course not your majesty. Constantine wasn’t trying to harm you before. He was just trying to identify you through your magic.”

“I’d like reality to not cease, thank you very much. I would hope no mortal is stupid enough to try and attack a baby king of the infinite realms.” and the king was looking all around but not at Constantine. And hood was staring intently at the two magicians.

“Should we tell him?” croc asked to the silent warehouse.

Constantine stared bug eyed at waylon. “No, no, no….”

“Boss, I'm gonna get them some chairs. I think he might faint.” Frank said his gun pointed at the ground now.

“Maybe a bucket too.'' Marco suggested. Hood motioned them with a few fingers. Fuck it. Looks like Connie was going to take it worse than the sirens and outlaws had.

“Please, please tell me, it wasn’t those idiots in spandex.” John begged the higher power in the room. “Those bumbling idiots…”

“I would like to think I would know if the justice league had done something like that.” Zatanna said.

“We don’t know if they are supporting it or not definitively. Not willing to risk asking out right." Hood said.

“I like deadman jaybird.” nightwing stated calmly. “Red robin has a friend like him too, her name is greta. She goes by secret. She’s a teen too.”

Frank and Marco came back with a bucket and two chairs for the magicians. “I think we have this from here. You guys want to check in with the rest of the gang and make sure everyone is on task?'' Red Hood dismissed his lieutenants. John wasted no time dropping into one of the chairs. Zatanna gave a thankful nod but didn’t sit just yet.

“Fuck it. Let’s have a party. And I'm happy to piss off Batman by holding up his meeting.”

With the go ahead Zatanna summoned deadman to the warehouse. She noticed the young king was watching it intently as she made the summoning. Boston appeared slowly but finally solidified as much as he normally is in their presence. No one in the room seemed to have trouble seeing him. “Hey zee, John, what are you needing? Holy shit that’s the king. . . auh my god the kings a baby." Deadman seemed to be going through several stages.

“I’m not the king yet.” Danny pouted. But waved. “Hi.”

“Auh, hi.” deadman kind of bowed awkwardly. “The hell is going aun?”

“What do you want to be called baby king?” John asked, head buried in his hands. Not even looking up.

“Danny, or Schrodinger i guess.” he looked to Jason getting a nod, “um also phantom or Danny phantom. Everyone in the realms knows me as phantom.” he then went back to watching this new ghost.

“Eh sure, nice of you to ask first. That's different.” Boston made a move towards the king. The grin grew on his face as he pulled away from nightwing.

“No, the scrambler only covers the building. And there isn't enough room for a brawl.” Hood said.

“Hey, who are you to tell the king what he can and can't do?” Boston asked.

“He's my Uncle good.”

“Red hood, and you're in my haunt jackass. The scrambler is the only thing keeping us from being a giant fucking flare for giw sensors. Bad enough we had one fucking ghost street brawl.”

“You know your tin can is blue right?”

Hood took a step towards Boston fist clenched.

“Hey no fair, if I can't fight you can't fight.”

“What's the giw?” Zatanna asked.

“The guys in white.” Danny answered.

“The ghost investigation ward.”

“OH I don't bloody like the sound of that.”

“If there will be no fighting and there are more ghosts now, maybe you two can tone it down.” Croc suggested.

“Sure, I can take shade easy.” And just as the words are past his lips two bright rings of light flash and Schrodinger is back in his all black cat self. And the sound of Zatanna's wand hitting the ground echoed through the warehouse.

“That's probably not good.” Croc mumbled.

“All good there, zee?” Nightwing said, trying to sound light hearted but looking at her with concern.

“Fuck it go broke.” Hood grumbled, a flash of light coming from his as changed back. Taking in a long slow breath as he did.

“Now I get the name red hood.” Boston said.

Zee was now holding her face, hands smothering her own mouth.

“Polariteras, Whelp guess you weren't possessing the kid on the bus then. Thought yer type was a myth. And there's two of ya.”

“It's overshadowing. I hate that. I don't ever do that unless it's the only option or I have permission.” Danny's eyes flashed green, his teeth inhumanly sharp.

“I meant no offense.” John had his hands up til the kids head snapped to deadman narrowed even more to glare.

“Deadman what…”

“Easy kiddo.” Jason said, dropping a hand on his shoulder. Grundy moving closer to the two.

“No wonder the league lets our kind be hunted if your behavior is their main example.”

“Danny, deadman is a member of the justice league.” Nightwing said, taking his little brother's fist in hand trying to relax it. His body was curling in on itself in a defensive position.

“Is that why they haven't handed you over to be vivisected yet? You do their dirty work, you get spared?" Danny snarled the room dropping in temperature greatly.

Deadman jerked back violently, flickering in and out of view. He must have projected something in ghost speech because the kids' eyes weren’t glowing anymore and his oversized sharp teeth, though still sharp, weren't as big.

“No.” Zatanna gasped in horror.

But John was back on his feet knocking over the chair. “They did fucking what? When? How bad was the damage? Are you healing? How did they even manage?'' John started shooting out questions pulling at his hair. “Who’s affiliated with this giw?'' John whipped through his memories. “6-7 months ago wasn’t it for a month?” he looked to zee for confirmation of the events he is matching to the timeline. He didn’t notice Danny phasing through Grundy to end up behind him. And hood stepping between his advancing body and questions.

“Yes, that’s when no one could use any kind of transportation or time magic. Even the zeta tubes were malfunctioning.” she answered. Taking in the implications. That had dick’s eyes widening. He had remembered that. None of the engineers could figure out why. Or why they suddenly started working again. He hadn’t had any reason to correlate it to the information he had from the sirens and outlaws on Danny's kidnapping.

“Enough! You’re overwhelming the kid!” jason shouted over him. “Kiddo. You’ve had one panic attack already today. Yes, after robin left. Don’t act like i don’t know about that just because I didn't see it. You are a terrible liar. I think you need to go home with waylon now. And leave the rest of this conversation to me and nightwing and grundy.”

“What! But they are with the justice league! I can’t leave you here with them alone! You aren’t good enough with your powers! Who’s going to protect you? Nightwing’s expert occultist isn’t even very good!”

“I’m not. I’m a consultant. And deadman and zee are with justice league dark. We understand the implications of what you said is happening. You are angry, I understand that. I’m furious on your behalf too. And I know you can feel it. But that isn’t going to help us fix this, your majesty.” the snarling child's face popped through Grundy's chest like a chest burster. Nightwing would deny flinching to Jason for eternity. “Sorry phantom. I will personally meet with you after I have more information to navigate sensitive subjects with you. But right now we need as much as you can share in order to help. Here.'' John cast a short spell brushing it along his arms and chest ignoring the gun hood pulled. “See, I am a bloke who really likes living.” exposed were the marks of all the soul contracts he had made that he normally tried to hide from prying eyes. Left bare for all to see. “Can’t say I enjoy it, but… I am highly motivated to correct this in order to continue living. Your life, the realms, that is tied to all realities, we aren’t just talking about this world. All of them. Let us help. Please. If you think the justice league is compromised, I'm also usually pro keep the spandex idiots out of magical affairs, not that they ever listen to me.”

“I’m not leaving my uncles alone.” Danny said.

“Compromise.” Hood said. “Go to the office. Turn on that new white noise machine you made that blocks our hearing. And try to go to sleep on the pull out. You have school in the morning anyway. And you are going to be exhausted. You can’t really afford to piss off your English teacher any more. And get another ecto cooler before bed. Waylon go with him. Something goes south, you are both still here. But you can calm down. And I can calm down easier knowing you are safe and not being retraumatized.”

“Please baby boo? For me?” Nightwing put on a pouty face for his baby brother playing up the pleading, holding his hands to his chin. “I’ll take you to get ice cream on my next patrol you crash?”

“Scoops. Not soft serve."He got narrow blue eyes and a pouty lip. Still sticking out of grundy’s chest.

“Deal.” And just like that his head disappeared as Waylon grabbed him around the waist and hauled him over his shoulder, carrying towards an office on the far end of the warehouse.

“He hexed a white noise machine?” Zatanna asked.

“No, he built it. It’s just normal tech. Or what he calls ecto-tech”

“He what?”

“Bloody fucking hell, it just keeps getting worse.”

“Grundy says you have no idea.” Deadman spoke up for the zombie.

“Yeah, barely scratched the surface of this iceberg.” Hood said, sounding just as tired.

“I'm sure this is frustrating, but no need to be so annoyed with us. We can't help without clarification”

“No, I'm annoyed thinking about how much work it's going to be to clear that office. Because 10/1 he is booby-trapping it as revenge.”

“He'd really do that?” Zatanna asked with a slightly hysterical lilt.

“He refers to glitter as the ultimate lesson in intangibility. It's the only way to get it all off. And Harley keeps him supplied.”

“See harmless kid. Just like I said.” Dick said, trying to force a lighter mood.

Chapter Text

“faw fucks sake could 'oday ge' any wawse? we go' 'he bloody fuckin yanks wagin a war on 'he infini'e realms. a' leas' 'hey can keep on 'heme. 'rue 'o fashion faw 'hem faw energy resources. 'rue american classic 'ha' one. can'' be con'en' wi'h shades, oh i'm sawry blobs, blob ghosts. bu' 'ave 'o go chop shop on no' jus' lil realms beings bu' godlings. an' somehah some mad scien'is' wi'h no magic knowledge, 'ave punched a 'ole in'o 'he realm be'ween. an' are mass buildin magi'ech faw 'he bloody yanks. an' no' single buffoon in 'he spandex club 'as caugh' wind ov 'hese shenanigans. because 'he li''le godlin vic'im is in 'idin 'o preven' 'he apocalypse from bo'h sides. we are lookin a' 'he collapse ov all reali'ies 'ere. draggin us back 'o 'he big bang. an' because 'e's a polari'era we can'' even safely jus' dump 'im back in'o 'he infini'e realms faw safe keepin. 'here is no' enough booze on 'his en'ire plane' faw 'his shi' shah.” (for fucks sake could today get any worse? we got the bloody fucking yanks waging a war on the infinite realms. at least they can keep on theme. true to fashion for them for energy resources. true american classic that one. can't be content with shades, oh i'm sorry blobs, blob ghosts. but have to go chop shop on not just lil realms beings but godlings. and somehow some mad scientist with no magic knowledge, have punched a hole into the realm between. and are mass building magitech for the bloody yanks. and not a single buffoon in the spandex club has caught wind of these shenanigans. because the little godling victim is in hiding to prevent the apocalypse from both sides. We are looking at the collapse of all realities here. dragging us back to the big bang. and because he's a polaritera we can't even safely just dump him back into the infinite realms for safe keeping. There is not enough booze on this entire planet for this shit show.")

Hood and Grundy looked at each other and then at Boston who just shrugged. All three then turned to Zatanna, “translation please, cause fuck.” dick laughed a bit.

“He’s tired.” Zee said from her seat. They had moved around a bit. Grundy getting out a folding table from somewhere and more chairs. Even has a couch cushion on a 55 gallon drum for his own seat around the table. For them to talk. “He’s only going to get worse at this point.” Constantine silenced his phone again, for the 30th time that night. Dick had turned his off and left his com in a safe house outside the alley. “I’m tired too. This was a lot of information. And it was all bad. Which is basically what john is saying, we are fucked. And it’s the Americans' fault. Which i mean…”

“Yeah, well fuck the queen auf england and all that.” Boston said.

“cheers 'o 'ha' ma'e” (Cheers to that mate) Constantine raised his empty flask, “bu's i''s 'he kin now, who can suck my cock, along wi'h 'he bloody fuckin american wankers who signed off on 'his.” (buts it's the king now, who can suck my cock, along with the bloody fucking american wankers who signed off on this.)

“I still can’t believe there are polaritera let alone two of them. In Gotham of all places? And one is most assuredly on his way ascentian to being an endless.”

“Yeah well, there is more of, what’s that word, polarit… halfa is easier. Yours sounds fancier though more pretentious. Bruce is gonna put that in the computer though if you tell him that. But there will be three here soon.” he watched zee freeze and Constantine groan. “Some nut job made a test tube baby with Danny. For her safety, they sent her globe trotting. We are trying to locate her and get her here. She’s like 1 but Danny says she’s aged physically to a couple years younger than him.”

“Excuse me?! We have another little sibling out there too?” dick asked, shocked.

“Two, this is another one Danny talks about, calls his older brother, might be another clone, he hasn’t fully explained. Dodges a lot of questions about him.”

“i'm sawry wha'? like supe's dustbin lid wi'h lu'haw?'' (I'm sorry, what? like supe's kid with luthor?) Constantine looked gobsmacked. “who 'he 'ell gave 'hese fuckign yanks 'he bloody idea 'o hump wi'h magic like 'his? wha' are 'hey 'hinking?” (who the hell gave these fuckign yanks the bloody idea to fuck with magic like this? What are they thinking?)

“cloning?” Zee asked just as disturbed as john at the implication. Humans should not be trying to breed gods.

“Yeah, that’s what I got out of it. Danny doesn’t share a lot about the asshole. I know it’s the guy who sicked pariah dark on him. Is obsessed with him And he’s rich.”

“wai', wai', wai', is i' a ghost? 'ow's a ghos' rich?'' (wait, wait, wait, is it a ghost? How's a ghost rich?) Constantine asked.

“Sounds like he’s anotha polaritera, might be why the king doesn’t want to tell and why he’s trying to make more, if there are aunly a few auf them. '' Boston added.

“why in bloody 'ell can'' 'hese nu's jus' do 'hings 'he old fashion way?'' (why in bloody hell can't these nuts just do things the old fashion way?) John whined.

“Considering the target of his interest is a child, i’m kind of happy he didn’t try that route.” hood huffed. Dick was quiet at that.

“Agreed.” Zatanna agreed. “Still very disturbing. But that’s 5 polaritera, if that assessment is correct. All on this plane. One is the king, and a baby endless, possibly his clones are also a baby endless. And they aren’t even old enough yet for us to tell domain.”

“You keep saying that word, what the fuck is an endless? Danny’s never used it.” Hood asked.

“Well that’s another thing we need to do. Is match up vocabulary. The magic community even different cultures have different words for different types of beings. And obviously the king has stated they are not matching up. So we need to get on the same page. But that will probably wait till he’s calmed and in a mood to talk. We don’t want to force him.” Zatanna said.

“Endless are the embodiment of concepts of the universe right?” dick asked remembering a bit from raven when he was more active with the titans. “Like death? Desire, dream,” dick listed out the ones he heard of.

“Oh, yeah some of them are on his council. His older clone-like brother is destruction, he said, but he is on probation with time." Hood offered, getting a nod from grundy.

“Did you just say the king's clone is the embodiment auf destruction? "Deadman asked.

“Yeah, time is there grandpa, according to danny. Hood added “he calls them ancients. Actually curses them instead of like Jesus, now that I think of it, that’s pretty funny.”

John started banging his head on the table. “Well, i’ve me' destruc'ion a few 'imes, good drinkin buddy if 'e’s no' in a righ' mood. An' i don’' wan' 'o 'hink abou' wha' 'e did 'o ge' proba'ion.” (Well, I've met destruction a few times, good drinking buddy if he’s not in a right mood. And I don't want to think about what he did to get probation.)

“When did you go drinking with destruction?” Zatanna asked.

“eh few decades ago, give aw 'ake, screwed 'im 'oo, 'ha' was a good lay 'ha' one.,” (screwed him too, that was a good lay that one.)

“Danny isn’t a few decades old. How did you go drinking with his clone? and you will never speak of the other part again.” dick asked with a bit of a crazed eye look tacked onto the end statement.

“Time, in the realms, can be a bit different. With well, the embodiment of time also known to some as destiny being there, his domain does touch all, tapping into his domain is how people time travel, via magic or science. He was chained to his lair long ago, which allows much easier access to his powers.”Zatanna said.

“ “he also 'ravels 'ime. An' fixes 'hings 'ha' can end in 'o much destruc'ion. Keeps 'is Jack Jones power in check as i' wawe. Didn’' knah 'e was a polari'era a' 'he 'ime.”” (“He also travels time. And fixes things that can end in too much destruction. Keeps his own power in check as it wore. Didn’t know he was a polaritera at the time.”)

“Well, Danny broke time out, so take that down.” hood added.

“Is that a good thing or a bad thing?” dick asked.

“Like most things that is probably a mixed bag.” Zatanna said. “He can probably now stop some people from tapping into his powers or gift more if he so wishes. Before he had no control. Which is probably what happened when danny was with the giw, if time is his grandfather in the realms he probably was upset and lashed out cutting everyone off. I don’t understand the science of physics, but it is probably somehow tied to how the zeta tubes work.”

“Or whatever ancient the kiddy king is going to grow up to be.'' Boston tagged on. “I mean I'm not suggesting injuring him to see what part auf realidee is affected but I mean you could probably narrow it down from what failed. ”

“what?” Dick and Hood asked at the same time.

Zatanna and Constantine took a minute to look at them and process the question they were asking. “Damaging an endless or ancient like you called it in a serious manner, has far reaching repercussions. It's not like fighting a demon or a God who can use a domain's power. It's like attacking reality itself. You kill death or injure her, we are talking nothing dies and the implications of that, until another endless is born to take their place. If that ever does happen. If you kill time all of time would collapse on itself like nothing would be linear or just cease to move forward, could go in reverse.”

“Tha' boy bein king, means 'e con'rols 'he comin an' goings be'ween 'he realms. Dea'h can’' cross 'o 'ake life 'ha' needs 'o, demons can’' 'ravel 'o our realm, 'here would no' be movemen' be'ween reali'ies, maybe no' 'errible, bu' say 'here are a bunch ov demons from 'ell on shell-like'h. You can’' send 'hem back.” (That boy being king, means he controls the coming and goings between the realms. Death can’t cross to take life that needs to, demons can’t travel to our realm, there would not be movement between realities, maybe not terrible, but say there are a bunch of demons from hell on earth. You can’t send them back.) Constantine said.

“Not including whateva ancient he is auf. He’s connected even if he doesn’t know to use those powers he’s using them subconsciously, he powers them. And as strong as the king is, he is the ancient auf something huge. ” Deadman tacked on.

“It is a horrible act in itself.” Zatanna finished. “To a child even worse. But we are talking about destroying the very foundations of realities everywhere. We need to get the league involved. This is exactly what the justice league was made to handle and prevent. I don’t know why this has slipped past so many levels and attention. But we can get it prioritized correctly. You can’t do this alone.”

“Yeah we can.'' Hood said defiantly . “And I will, if I have to. I’m not risking my baby siblings' lives, while the league argues politics and magic and science with any government.”

“Jaybird, they just said all the reasons why they won’t let anything happen to our little baby siblings.” dick said tiredly. “I’m not saying you step back from what you have been doing, but let us get the league started on the political side.”

“Can it be done without Danny, or ellie?” Jason asked. “They aren’t getting involved until we have guarantees on their safety. They aren’t meeting the league. They aren’t meeting with congress, nothing.”

“Yeah, we can do that.” Zatanna said. “Keeping them on the down low is not a terrible idea. Especially if there is someone who is sabotaging efforts to correct this in the league.”

“Definitely sounds like there is.” deadman said. “I can sneak around the watchtower for a bit. See if anything catches my attention to report.”

“Good, guess i’ll go 'alk 'o 'he bloody ba' already befawe 'e loses 'is mind.” (Good, guess I'll go talk to the bloody bat already before he loses his mind.) john said even more tiredly dragging a hand across his face. He quickly tossed up his hand. “S'ill 'exed. No wawries, abou' me spillin 'he beans. I don’' wan' your old John anywhere near 'he dustbin lid as i' is if 'e don’' wan' 'o.” (Still hexed. No worries, about me spilling the beans. I don’t want your old man anywhere near the kid as it is if he doesn't want to.)

“I’ll go with him, just in case.” Zatanna said.

“I’ll go with you to catch a ride to the watchtower.” Deadman tacked on the group getting to their feet.

Chapter Text

“Hello Bruce.” Zatanna said as she stepped out of the portal. John stumbling out behind her into the batcave.

“I was only expecting Constantine several hours ago.” Bruce started glaring at the man as he worked to right himself.

“Yes, well, considering everything, I've decided to join John on his mission.” Zatanna said. “We do have a good reason for delaying you.” Bruce just stared her down from his seat at the batcomputer, his cowl off.

“your bloody fuckin 'ero club, 'as done dropped 'he po' on 'his one you old plonker.”
(“Your bloody fucking hero club, has done dropped the pot on this one you old fool.”) john said once he had straightened up and dug out his cigarettes.

“Is he drunk?” Bruce asked Zatanna who just gave him a shrug.

“if i could be drunker an' no' die. I would.”
(“If I could be drunker and not die. I would.”) John lit his cigarette and was quick to put it in his mouth. Alfred came up behind him and cleared his voice, while Batman grabbed his head leaning the elbow on the desk.“no, i can'' drink, i'm smokin. You ain’' 'akin i' from me you wanker.”
( “No, I can't drink, I'm smoking. You ain’t taking it from me you wanker.”)

“We need to call an emergency meeting with the league bruce. But not the whole league. There has to be someone sabotaging important information. So we need to meet with only those you trust most to never betray you, or the goals of the league.'' Zatanna barreled on ignoring john. Bruce narrowed his eyes a bit at that.

“We know there is a mole somewhere. My family is hunting down leads.” Bruce stated.

“this can’' wai' faw you 'o dig 'hem ou'. Cause you’re bu'' 'ur' over bein 'he middleman.”
(“This can’t wait for you to dig them out. Cause you’re butt hurt over being the middleman.”)

“Constantine is in no condition to host a meeting.”

“That’s why I am here Bruce.” Zee said gently. “Take some time to think about it. And get it set up for tomorrow evening or the day after at the latest.”

“You had a meeting with my son,” Bruce said. “What did he tell you? Does he know you are meeting with me? How did you get him to agree?”

“i rei'era'e, we are all goin 'o die, because 'his John can’' manage 'o 'ug 'is nippers.”
(“I Reiterate, we are all going to die, because this man can’t manage to hug his kids.”)

“This meeting isn’t going to include Schrodinger. We might be able to get hood to agree, but i doubt it. We will be liaising between them and the league. They are still cautious.” Zatanna gave her friend a sad smile. “I know you are disappointed, but this is more justice league darks area, but we need the negotiating arm of the league to do some heavy lifting.”

“and maybe nex' 'ime one ov your bra's comes back from 'he brown bread, you 'ake 'he offer faw us 'o come check 'hings ou'.”
(“And maybe next time one of your brats comes back from the dead, you take the offer for us to come check things out.” )John grumbled. But he perked up when Alfred came to him with a cup of coffee. He went to take it, but Alfred pulled it back while staring him down. John glared but stuffed out his cigarette to be handed the cup of coffee.

“What level of threat are we looking at?” Bruce asked. He kept a straight face. But he was worried for his son. And for whatever trouble the siren’s had stumbled into.

“Top, multiverse destroying.” Zatanna told him.

“Schrodinger is that level of a threat?” Batman asked, sitting up higher.

“no, if 'ha' li''le bugger was a 'hrea', we’d all 'ave bin brown bread 'en 'imes over.”
(“No, if that little bugger was a threat, we’d all have been dead ten times over.” )John stated.

“He isn’t human though?” Bruce asked.

“Not anymore, no. Neither is Jason, I'm sorry.” Zatanna said sadly. “But, even though they are both very powerful, there are more of them. They are not the threat we need to focus on. The threat to them, and other dead, is far more pressing.”

Batman narrowed his eyes at the two magicians.

“The giw, ghost investigation ward, is a branch under the d.e.o. Department of extranormal operations, of the American government. That seems to have a loose classification of ghost, but might be partially a word use error. I can only hope. But doubtful. They are experimenting on entities they call ghost or ecto-enties.”

“I know all that.” Batman said, hitting a button on his computer and pulling up a file. “What I don't have is how Jason and Schrodinger fall into their jurisdiction or damian. As they have brought up.”

“They meet the government's definition of ecto-enties, because of an element is tied to death. Which is ectoplasma.”

“ec'oplasma 'as bin known 'o 'he magic communi'y faw a long 'ime. I'’s wha' ghosts are made ov. I' is charged wi'h emo'ion, powers spells. I'’s 'ah mos' magic wawks, 'appin in'o i' all around us. Fil'ers in from 'he realm be'ween.”
(“Ectoplasma has been known to the magic community for a long time. It’s what ghosts are made of. It is charged with emotion, powers spells. It’s how most magic works, tapping into it all around us. Filters in from the realm between.”)

“The realm is the infinite realms and the most powerful beings who would be classified as ecto-enties would be there and have a few tiers to. Lower ones are ghosts and shades. Schrodinger and hood are something different though.”

“polari'era, my'hical crea'ures, ov life an' dea'h, 'hey are in balance, 'hey are bo'h beings ov 'he infini'e realms, an' beings ov 'he realms 'hey never lef'. Mos' realms beings are stagnan' an' grah ever so slowly an' are no' a fan ov change. Polari'era are no'. They can evolve an' grah because 'hey still live. Bu' 'ave all 'he powers aw po'en'ial ov a bein ov 'he infini'e realms.”
(“Polaritera, mythical creatures, of life and death, they are in balance, they are both beings of the infinite realms, and beings of the realms they never left. Most realms beings are stagnant and grow ever so slowly and are not a fan of change. Polaritera are not. They can evolve and grow because they still live. But have all the powers or potential of a being of the infinite realms.”)

“How would you classify these realms beings?” batman asked typing away.

“Gods of gods.”

“Reali'y i'self.”
(“Reality itself.” )John and Zatanna shared a look before both nodding at each other. Batman's fingers had frozen a bit before moving on.

“no' 'o ge' your ba'pan'ies in a 'wis'. Bu' faw a comparison you migh' know, 'hese nippers are probably in 'he same league as parallax, spec're are realms beings. An' 'he americans seem 'o 'ave found some scien'is' who managed a way 'o 'ur' 'hem, an' 'arves' 'hem faw energy sources. So i am sure you can see 'he seriousness ov si'ua'ion nah.''
(“Not to get your batpanties in a twist. But for a comparison you might know, these kids are probably in the same league as parallax, spectre are realms beings. And the Americans seem to have found some scientist who managed a way to hurt them, and harvest them for energy sources. So i am sure you can see the seriousness of situation now.')' John finished for him. “and af'er 'ha' men'al hump load, i am goin 'o go 'ome an' Bo Peep faw a bi', an' maybe 'ope i wake up from 'his nigh'mare existence while you ge' your li''le pah wah 'oge'her so we can break 'he news 'o 'hem.”
(“And after that mental fuck load, i am going to go home and sleep for a bit, and maybe hope i wake up from this nightmare existence while you get your little pow wow together so we can break the news to them.” )and with that john opened a portal and left zee to the rest.

“The infinite realms is a knife's edge of declaring war against the U.S.A or maybe even this reality, for its crime against it and its citizens. But also to protect the multiverse from ending. Which is the part little schrodinger doesn’t know or understand fully.”

“What does that have to do with Jason and Selina's ward?” Bruce asked, shoulders tensed.

“The little crown prince has been terribly harmed. In the wisdom of a young child, he is holding off a declaration of war, by hiding the evidence of the crimes. Himself. From the rest of his court. He seems to have some help from loyal members, but it may only last till they know the extent of the damage.” Zatanna allowed that to sink in. “he is buying time, because realms beings can’t perceive it like we do. But that is all that he can do. They’ve already sent an agent to find him once which they made a bet with to buy more time. He or jason is hurt since then i’m not sure they will be able to stop it bruce. And your second oldest child's impulses have led him down the path of destroying the immediate threat till it can’t cause harm. But that doesn’t stop more from coming up in its place.”

Bruce took a deep steading breath, eyes closed as he took his notes, fist clenching when he finished for a few seconds before he opened another file. “Superman and Wonderwoman I would trust, Aquaman would be a good choice for diplomacy reasons, j’onn j’onzz would be another who could offer his experience from being held by the american government. For now, I think this should be our core group.”

“You’d suggest others though.” Zee said gently.

“Flash is good with kids. Should we get everything cleared and earn their trust. He would be good to have on hand to meet with. And also to go over the scientific research that both sides have on the matter. Several green lanterns are going to demand to be a part of it once they know. And if necessary, their organization can provide assistance in negotiations and in backing. But I don't agree with bringing them on till we find the leak in our organization.”

“And you will find a way to contact them all without the league communications just fine?” zee asked.

“I will handle it. And in 2 days. Me and you are going to go over my files together and update with what my sons informed you." Batman said, turning back to his computer.

“Sounds good. I’ll see you tomorrow around noon alright. Till then I'm going to do a little looking around the watchtower myself tonight.” she said heading for Batmans zeta tube.

Chapter Text

“Any luck Babs getting in contact?” Dick asked. Feet up on a table as he lounged back in his chair in the clock tower.

“I hate you. And sorta. whoever Pharohtech is, they are good. They only want to chat in meme. And refuse to respond unless it is also in meme, but if I don't answer fast enough or send I guess one that they don't approve of or like they dig further into my system and I have to cut them off. They are also a fan of oracle. That had been quite a string of pictures to decipher.”

“But they respond when you try again?” Dick asked.

“Yeah,” she pulled up her logs, “they didn't recognize the name Schrodinger. But didn't cut me off right away.”

“Good to know his friends recognize his sense of humor at least.” Dick said with amusement glancing at the screen over Babs shoulder. “Smart for a new hero i.d. in a new location. I have the old one I think. Danny phantom. Or phantom.” Dick said.

“He didn't use his real name for his i.d. did he really?” Babs groaned.

“I mean Tim did too.” Dick chuckled. “And I mean look at Jason aliases. Naming skills are kinda poor around here.” He watched her start up a program to run searches on phantom. “Might have the name of your hacker too.” he added. Babs raised a brow at him. “Danny got excited and name dropped a Sam and tuck. High probability.”

“Anything else you care to share?”

“How certain are you that you can keep out Tim and b from a file?” She glared at him over her glasses. “Hey I gotta ask.” He held up his hands in defense. “So, he goes to school with Damian and Duke. And he has managed to not run into them.”

“I mean they could have and just not recognized him.” Babs said. Putting in data to run searches.

“Babs.” Dick said soft but serious. He waited for her full attention. “He's 13.” Dick kept eye contact. “Selina is going hard to hide his i.d. I know we all have to fight that confirmation bias, but it's time to end the Denial. Run your facial recognition software with Dami, and a young picture of Bruce. Increase its outliers by 10% on the student photos.” Her wide eyes move from him to her computer to do exactly that. It didn't even take 2 minutes for it to complete. “None of us wanted it to be true. So we kept looking for a random kid.”

Babs just stared shell-shocked at her screen, on it was 2 pictures, one of Damian and one of Danny. Both so similar and yet so different. Danny had a huge grin and a bit more baby fat still in the face. Plus the paler complexion and blue eyes. Damian's ever-present scowl and piercing green eyes. But there was no denying the similarities. “B, is not going to handle this well.”

“Can't say I did either.” Dick sighed. “There is some concern on how Dami is going to take it.” Babs cringed.

“He likes Schrodinger, so maybe less likely to go straight for murder. Does he know?”

“I don't even know if he knows Selina knows who his dad is. He calls Jason his uncle so I don't think so.” dick gave her a tight smile. “Also can you run the same facial for a girl, more worldwide age range within a few years, long shot. And a boy 18-30. Maybe a pic of Bruce that age and maybe loosen the range another 10-15% for those. “

Babs glared at him. “Clones really dick?”

“My understanding is closer to a Connor type situation.” Babs groaned, putting her head in her hands. “Good news is Danny seems to love his clones. Refers to them as siblings.”

“What's the bad news?” Babs snapped.

“Older one is THE god of destruction and is on probation for something.” Dick did jazz hands. Babs could not hide her shocked horror gaping at him. “Danny is king of the dead too.” More silence. “I'd say B is going to have kittens but…” he failed to dodge her swing of her orthopedic wrist pad rest.

*******************

Babs let out a heavy sigh at her screen. “Guess that was his team.” Dick said before slurping his empty cup. The chat had some keyboard smashing, followed by you have 5 minutes to tell us where Danny is or we will brick your network, no more games. More keyboard smashes. Please, we are worried about our friend. “Ask if they are supposed to be in class right now.”

“I'm not risking my system being damaged so you can tease some kids.” She shoved him, sending him rolling away from her station. She typed back that Danny was fine and with his birth mom. That they aren't giving out his location for his safety, but she is contacting them to set up a secure method of communication. If they'd stop attacking her network please.

We don't need your network. Ours is safer than yours. Give us Danny's new number.

Please.

You are good but our team that is helping Danny would feel better about using my network.

Whoa, you're a girl. Who's that with you?

“Uh-oh.” Dick said as both of them rushed to get masks on. And babs hit two cameras with throwing knives.

“Man, you have a creepy stalker file on my bro.” a young man's voice came over the speakers. Dick started frantically texting Jason and Danny in a group chat.

“Ancients tucker, just find danny and delete their shit.” A young female voice added.

“Sam, tuck, let's not do anything rash.” Dick spoke up. “You can hear me right?”

“We hear you.” The voice that was probably tuck said.

“And why should we listen to you?” the very angry female who he guessed was Sam came in.

“I’m a good friend of Danny and his mom and the rest of his family here. I was actually just with Danny last night for a meeting about the GIW and Danny’s royal status. We are working on shutting down the GIW. We are on your side I promise.

“Huh, that’s an interesting backdoor.” tuck said.

Babs looked panic rolling towards her servers to disconnect them.

“Wait, wait, everyone freeze please. Do not go in there. We do not need Batman to lose his shit right now about a breach.” dick gambled on. Holding a hand up to Babs. “And i want to keep talking. Oracle will have to disconnect to protect the rest of our network. I want you to get in contact with Danny. I’m texting him right now.”

“Batman!” the two teens shouted.

“Gotham? Oracle has a backdoor into Batman's computer holy shit! Dude this file says he’s in a school in Gotham. Man jazz is gonna be stoked.'' Tucker said. “How cool is that Sam? Batman used to be your favorite hero. Do you think Danny scored you an autograph?”

“Batman can go to the farfrozen in swim trunks along with the rest of those worthless heroes.” Sam said bitterly.

“Come on, I mean yeah, they kinda ghost us, but I mean it’s still batman, he’s still cool right? Original goth hero.” tuck sounded like a kicked puppy. Damn these kids were going to be hard to win over.

“Maybe i’ll make a wish to Desiree to have poison ivy shove a rose vine up his ass.”

“Please don’t do that.” dick and tuck said at the same time.

“I’m sure Ivy would do that if you asked nicely at this point. Danny is her favorite nephew.” dick decided to gamble again while oracle signed angrily. What the hell are you doing? The two teens were silent.

“Did you just say poison ivy is Danny’s aunt?” tuck asked.

“He better have gotten me an autograph.” Sam said.

“He did! And one from the lead singer of mucous membrane last night actually.” dick chimed in. “Listen, we need to keep this very very private. For Danny's safety. You’ve been protecting Danny's former secrets very well I'm sure. But the bats are not as trusting and open with newbies ok. So it’s not you it’s us,” dicks phone pinged and oh thank god. “And Danny is going to call you right now!”

“Sam! Tuck! Oh my god you guys!” Schrodinger's voice came over the speakers now.

“Danny!” The two teens' excited voices followed.

“Dude, nightwing says you guys are holding Oracle's computer hostage.”

“That guy is nightwing!”

“He said poison ivy is your aunt! Did you get me an autograph?” Sam asked. Oracle put her face in her hands.

“Yeah! Aunt Pam is totally cool, and and my mom is also dating Harley quinn. So I got hers for jazz too. Is she with you? Wait, shouldn’t you be in class?”

“Shouldn’t you?” two snarky comebacks.

“Technically I am still in class.”

“Sweet! You got your duplication stable in human form! Nice!”

“Oh, uh, yeah…” danny squeaked.

“Shit, they didn’t know that, did they?”

“Nice going tucker!”

“Schrodinger, please, I need them to release control of my systems.” oracle begged.

“Did you guys wreck anything?”

“Not yet!” Sam said.

“They have a creeper file on you man.”

“Yeah, uncle hood says that’s normal. But he wants a copy, I'm sending you a place to send it.”

“Wait!” oracle said to deaf ears. She glared at dick who gave her a strained smile and shrug.

“Should I delete it? Along with everything they have on you know ghosts and stuff?”

“Yes!” sam.

“No, but copies for uncle hood.”

“He could just ask me himself!” oracle scolded in frustration.

“What kind of name is uncle hood?”

“Oh that’s red hood.”

“Dude! Is your mom just tight with a bunch of gotham rogues?”

“Well she’s catwoman.”

“That’s why they called you schrodinger! Dude that is a great new alias. What’s your costume look like?”

“I just use a cat noir cosplay.”

Sam snorted. “Wow, way to be basic danny.”

“What? It was quick and easy. Sue me.”

“Guys, not to ruin the moment but…” dick said.

“Oh right, sorry. You didn’t drop technus on them did you?”

“Not yet, only if i couldn’t handle it. I finally got ghosting the data stream down from him.”

“Yeah, I can not risk Technus getting dropped here with this big tech giant place in town.”

“Danny it’s Wayne tech!” two exasperated teens said.

“I mean he is doing better, but that is a big temptation, and with another halfa here, that is too much ecto to handle with a fight to hide from the GIW.”

“You found another halfa?!”

“Oh yeah! Red…”

“Danny!” Dick said, cutting him off. “We really need to regain control before Batman calls in. and you all need to get back to class.”

“Right, sorry, tuck hop off and don’t trash anything. And I'll call you after school. If you hear from Ellie, tell her to call me.”

“You got it bro!”

“If you don’t call, we are burning their shit to the ground!” and then everything was silent and an alarm started going off in the clock tower. Babs rolled back to her station and started going over everything with a fine tooth comb after turning off the alarm.

“That wasn’t so bad.” Dick tried to lighten the mood. Babs just shot him a glare. “I’ll start getting the camera’s down.” he pouted, going to remove the damaged equipment.

Chapter Text

“Alright there kid, let's get on with it.” John said walking to Danny as he came to the bus stop he got on at the day before.

“Does my uncle know you are here?” Danny asked, looking the man up and down.

John gave a shrug pulling out a cigarette.”didn't take you for a snitch.” He took a puff of his cigarette.

“You know that stuff will kill you right?” Danny asked with a smug smirk on his face.

“Har, har.” John heckled him back, taking another puff and blowing it in the kids direction. Who just batted it away. “Come on, let's go get a snack and have a chat.”

“I'll take free food. But you are still wrong.” Danny said smugly.

“I'm sure. And you my little royal snot are going to educate me good and proper I'm sure.” He got a glare for the title. They got the bus together as it pulled up sitting in the back.

“You don't like being wrong do you?”

“It hardly ever happens so I'm a bit suspect.”

“Sure it doesn't.” Danny typed into his phone. “Where are we headed?”

“Indian place around here I like. Feeling like curry. You like curry?”

“Yeah, I like anything. As long as it doesn't try to kill me again.” Danny said, still texting. “Uncle Waylon said he needs the name of the place.”

“I don't know it's the next stop, and it's this little corner window.” John said with a sigh.

“OK, uncle Waylon says we have 2 hours and then he's gonna sick uncle hood on you.”

“Of course.” John said seriously. Getting out of his seat at the next stop. His little self claimed ghostly companion followed behind with his book bag.

The two found the shop and John ordered their meals and led them to a bench off the beaten path.

“Alright let's clear this up. Deadman is a ghost.”

“Yep.”

“You are an endless or ancient and a polaritera.”

“Halfa, polaritera is what frostbite medical scrolls says, but he calls us halfas cause it's what we call ourselves.” He took a big bite of his food. Swallowing. “Not an ancient though. Also a ghost. Ancients are ghosts too.” The boy smiled at him. “Deadman is a ghost but also a shade. A strong shade but a shade.”

“Boston is not a shade.” John said exasperated with a mouthful of food. He set down his spoon. “A shade is like this big, and squishy looking. Like a water balloon of emotion and ectoplasma. They don't have shards, Like a wisp." John gestured with his hands.

“That's a blob ghost.” Danny said, staring him down while he chewed and spoke.

“What? The bloody hell is a blob ghost, it's a shade.” John argued.

“Nope. Blobs form pretty easily. Strong emotions and ectoplasma sometimes death. Gotham has a lot of blobs. I think from all the large scale rogue attacks. They are what my parents, the fentons first collected for studying. They are the closest thing to lifeless in the realms, that match what my, the fenton’s wrote. I guess kind of like plants or more like coral. Yeah better comparison. Ghosts will eat blobs sometimes. I try not to. But when you are low in ectoplasma and need it fast, it is an option. But I prefer the ecto condenser; it pulls just the free floating ecto., box" Danny said before chomping down his togo container and fork. “Can I have yours?” Danny pointed at his togo box.

John paused only for a second before passing it to him. “Eh sure, why the hell not?” He watched the kid eat it.

“You got enough ecto in you, if you die you’ll probably be a ghost. And not a shade ghost. Shades just have very underdeveloped cores. What you call a shard I guess. As shades get access to a more steady supply of ectoplasm and grow enough they will get fully functioning cores.”

“Good to know.” john pulled out a pen and paper and jotted down a few notes. “I’ll give ya the blob and shade and ghost thing. Why don’t you like to eat blobs if others do?”

Danny blinked at him and his turned green, a glow stretching out from the kid sitting next to him. And as it spread out tiny green orbs moving around like flubber came into view and moved up to them sticking themselves to the two of them. The little king made a point to pet one like you would a cat or size wise maybe a hamster, more came up pushing the others away for a turn. With their king smiling down on them. “Cause they are cute. And can filter or give emotions as needed. Also after seeing my the fentons cutting in to them electrocuting them and processing them down into the batteries for their inventions, i just, i don’t want to be like them…” john watched as the boy sagged a bit in is sadness, more blobs congregating on him for comfort.

“Maybe you need to come up with a word for ghost vegetarian then…” John said, smiling ruefully at the kid. He got a snort of a laugh for that. “Alright enough with the parlor trick. Gonna get us both in trouble lad.” John stood up and watched the kid reduce his circle of influence and watched the blobs slowly recede from his sight. Some linger longer than others. “Let's get you home before Jason blows his top.”

The two catch the next bus that will take them just outside crime alley. Danny talks his ear off about music, even forcing an ear bud on John to play him some songs as they travel. Getting off at their stop and walking. Danny even teases John by playing a cover of running up that hill by no resolve.

“Glad, a person of your position has a sense of humor, try and keep that, the establishment needs to laugh at itself.” John smiled to himself as he puffed away on another cigarette. Not slowing his pace as Danny froze taking in his words.

“I'm the establishment now…” the stared at his back as the information settled. Horror in his voice. Eyes wide as it fully sinks in. He finally runs to catch up to John tugging at his arm. “No, I can't be the man. Jason says you are good at finding loopholes, can you get me out of being king?”

“Nope, sorry there mate. Fraid ya stuck. Destiny has you by the balls. I doubt you'd even get the pariah treatment.” John informed him. And John would bet on it. No way this kid got all those cards stacked so well. Time was always a clever bastard.

“Noooooooo.” The kid whined, hanging off his arm. As John dragged him down the street.

“Dramatic little nipper.” John tutted. He was happy when the kid straightened back up to wave and chat with a few people on the street when they crossed into hood’s haunt.

They arrived at the house to find Waylon and Jason. They Were just shaking their heads at Danny who just smiled. “Grundy is making snacks. Your mom's call in is in an hour. Try to get some homework done.” Jason said to Danny as he came into the house met with some excited hyenas.

“Mind if I hang around to chat with the ladies? I'd like to put some wards on the place as some back up protection. Some more unscrupulous magi get wind of the kid, some warnings and shields I understand would ease my mind a bit.” John asked at the threshold.

“Unscrupulous huh?” Jason stared him down. Waylon went into the house ignoring them.

“Come now, you bats are all a paranoid bunch. Why stick you fucking nose up at extra protection. Stop being a stubborn brat about it.” John stared Jason down back.

Jason moved to the side, letting him pass. “Better not catch anything fishy asshole.”

“No worries mate, wouldn't dream of it.” John said, walking past him.

Chapter Text

“Hey guys!” Danny said excitedly waving at the camera on the computer. “Look who is at my house right now!” Danny grabbed someone off screen and pulled a rather tired looking middle aged man into the frame.

“Is that Johnny con-job!” the two teens on the side of the line shouted. Crowding closer to the screen.

“Dude, you look like shit.” tuck said really taking in the punk icon.

“Why are you at Danny’s house?” Sam asked, eyes narrowed taking in the man’s appearance. “That’s occult sigils.”

“He calls himself an occult detective. But he’s not that good at it.”

“I am very good at it, thank you very much! Not many of us have direct connections to the infinite realms to get first hand knowledge, you little shit.”

“Do you know some magic shit?” Red hood came into view behind them. John tried to pull away.

“As nice as a chat with your little friends would be, I do have work to do.” John removed the boy's hands from his coat and brushed himself off.

“That's not gonna help you. You still look like a drunk bum.” Waylon laughed.

“Dude your place is so full.”

“I know some. I took up looking into it after we had an incident with time travel and witches and witch hunters.” sam answered

“Sam got confused for a witch and said screw it, I'm gonna do it then.” Danny said with a laugh.

“Good up on ya.” John said going back to work.

“Have her look over his work, see if she sees anything suspect.”

“Oiu! I don’t need my work judged by a novice nipper!” John snapped.

“Sorry about forcing Danny to ghost you guys. We thought oracle would have a safer connection. But please don't hack her or the bats right now. They are enough of a headache." Jason directed.

“I thought oracle was an ally and nightwing said he was working with you?” tuck asked.

“It's complicated, kids. Just don't do anything crazy. Low profile.”

“Who is that Danny?” Sam asked.

“OH this is red hood my new halfa fraid member.” Danny tipped the computer back so the camera caught him with his helmet on. “Fright knight took him as fraid to after he got his ass kicked.”

“Danny…” Hood let out a long suffering sigh.

“The spirit of Halloween is your ghost parent huh? How's daddy bat taking that?” john scoffed

“This conversation doesn't…”

“Your dad is batman!” Sam and Tuck shouted.

“You are my new favorite hero mr. Hood. Ancients, you are such a rebel.” Sam fawned.

“Please, Mr. Hood was my father.”

“These poor kids have a low bar to impress.”

“And you only met the bar because of music you haven't done in 40 years.”

“You are not making it out of here tonight if you keep letting the kids bait you.” Waylon teased. “Let him get out on patrol Danny.”

“OH right. Bye uncle good.”

“Stop calling me that. In Front of other people at that.” He roughed up Danny’s head. “Be good for Waylon. Are you going out?”

“Only if I sense robin close.”

“Got it. Get done, and get out Connie.”

“Trying, I want a bloody smoke.”

“Not in this house.” Waylon scolded. “I don't even let hood smoke around the kid.”

“You smoke?” all three kids asked.

“OK, maybe lose some cool points.” tuck said scrunching his nose.

“I have cut back a lot since you showed up.” he pointed at Danny. “Specially if you haven’t noticed.”

“Hood!”

“I'm leaving!” And Jason took the stairs to the roof.

“What are you? The dorm mum?” john asked a bit befuddled.

“Yes! No smoking. Danny, if you leave let me know first please. I'm gonna go watch TV.” Waylon ruffled Danny’s hair too on his way past.

“Did that guy have scales? Is he a ghost or a meta?”

“OH that's uncle Waylon, he goes by croc.”

“My man, what is even your life now?” tuck asked lounging back in the chair.

“It is so great here. I miss you guys and jazz and Val like crazy, but seriously everything in Gotham has been like so much easier than back home. Mom and her girlfriends are great. I can use my powers at home whenever I want. I get support and help to do the hero thing, or even not, there is no pressure to try and do everything cause so many other heroes are here. And my new family is working on taking down the GIW!”

“Wait seriously? Vals been beating the GIW around to any stray ghosts who show up, but the number of agents on the street has dropped off a lot after you left.” Sam informed him.

“Yeah, our break ins show they are moving more equipment around to other bases outside Amity. Probably looking for us stronger ghosts. Tell Val thanks for me. Are you getting them in the zone ok?”

“Yeah, jazz has been sneaking them in pretty easy since your mom, or Maddie I guess disappeared.” tuck pitched in.

“Mo… Maddie is missing?”

“I wouldn't say missing… they kind of had a pretty public separation. And your dad filed for divorce it made the local news even. Vlad even went to court with your dad for a character witness…”

“What? Is jazz ok? Is she with mo maddie?”

“Vlad uh gave testimony that Mrs. Fenton isn't currently in her right mind and is a danger to her kids…” tuck said.

“Wait? He sided with dad!?”

“Dude, that's not even the weirdest part…” tuck continued

“No idea what his plan is, but he actually has been spending a lot of time with mr. Fenton. And not trying to kill him. Jazz says he isn't even creeping on her.” sam finished.

“He does keep asking us about you though“

“Yeah how's that going?”

“Spectre deflectors are now permanent fashion choices, and when no one is there to see, he gets wrist rayed.” Sam gave a vicious grin.

“He's tried to dog nap cujo a couple of times but has had no success.”

“Are You sure? I've sent cujo after Ellie, but haven't heard from either of them in a while. Think you can track her phone?”

“On it.”

“I'm here! I'm here! Tell me I'm not late!”

“JAZZ!” Danny burst into tears at the sight of his older sister. The extreme emotion caused John to look up from his work, making eye contact with waylon; he'd need it to recede a bit so it didn't warp his spell. Croc seemed content to let the little ghost process on his own. He was practically hugging his computer. Poor chap.

“Danny, you're ok, you're ok, tell me you're ok?”

“I'm better than ok. I'm more worried about you guys.”

“Danny, you are in the most dangerous city in the entire country!”

“I'm also in the most dangerous neighborhood in the most dangerous city. We live in red hood’s haunt which is called crime alley.” John caught Waylon's eye again and got ignored again.

“Kid, should you be sharing that much?” John asked.

“I mean I have the whole file oracle had. I would find it anyway.” Tuck chimed in. “But we got the modified ghost shield up and we are in Sam's rec room. We good.”

“Danny, who is that?”

“Johnny con-job.” 3 teens parroting.

“Right…. And that is?”

“I'm an occult” Danny coughed ‘shitty’ “detective helping the little crown prince of the infinite realms king phantom and I will full title you you little bolgaged for every interaction you keep that up you hear me?”

Danny rolled his eyes. “Fine uncle Connie.” That got a crocodile chuckle out of Waylon.

“Did you just pick this man up off the street or…”

“Family friend love. But I hear he has a habit of picking up strays.” John tossed his lighter at waylon. Who rubbed his head where it struck.

“Right, picking up strays, in a place called crime alley, Danny how is your adult supervision?” jazz’s voice was a bit tight.

“So much more than back in amity. Uncle Waylon, and uncle grundy who is a zombie!” He tossed his arms out excited. “I've made fraid with a real dead zombie! Are here cause mom and her girlfriends are out of town on a job. Uncle hood is patrolling his haunt, and he is a halfa like me and fraid. And then uncle Marco and uncle Frank are hood lieutenants, and Uncle Cobblepot checks in every week, even if we don't see him alot. I have like a curfew, we have regular meals together. And we have pets!” He turned the computer around to show Bud and Lou sleeping on the rug in front of the TV at croc's feet.

“Are those hyenas?!” sam‘s shocked outburst.

“Danny, who is that on your couch?” jazz asked.

“Uncle Waylon.” Danny answered easily. “But me and aunt harley take bud and Lou for regular walks, and then I have other adults too like huntress and nightwing. And it's long distance but…”

“Wait nightwing, like the hero nightwing? Is that safe? Is he nice?”

“Think jazz is more interested in knowing if he has a nice butt in person or I'd it's fake.” Tucker said with a laugh.

“Tucker!”

“What? If you weren't mad you'd have asked the same thing. You even saw his face!”

“For half a second I wasn't even paying attention…” “you what?”

“You guys are so red.” Danny laughed at the screen.

“Kids, maybe you shouldn't talk about hood’s brother’s butt.” waylon suggested.

“I can at least drink right?”

“OH yeah, kill your liver with gusto. Just don't touch Pam's wine.”

“Could you get us autographs?” Jazz asked.

“Pass!” Sam countered. “I want poison ivy and harley quinn though. Catwoman is cool too. Poly lesbians is like super awesome.”

“I think mom is trying to keep it on the down low. But they are all totally dating.”

“Wait what! Daniel James Fenton are you being raised completely by supervillains!?”

“I think the proper term currently is anti-heroes and vigilantes.” Croc called out.

“Thank you. What he said. And uh kyle.”

“You changed your name to kyle?” The 3 on the other side asked confused.

“No uh Danny James kyle. That's my new name.” The other kids were a bit silent for a minute before sam and tuck started laughing

“Dude only you could somehow get three first names. Really?” sam ribbed

Danny whined at the ribbing. “That's so uncool. It even un puns your og hero name.” tuck sassed.

“I can't help it!” John just thinks in his head, wait till it's four when daddy finds out.

Jazz was quiet just taking in her little brother after all these months apart, he was smiling, really smiling. sitting up more, not hunching in on himself making himself small talking openly. “What about school?”

“OH uncle cobblepot pays for me to go to this fancy private school. It's full of like all these spoiled rich kids like the A-listers on steroids. But I like school, they even had me do a bunch of placement testing and stuff. So they adjusted my classes, and I got an iep that is followed like 75% of the time. Some bullying, but I've been keeping my head down at school.”

“Any new friends?” Jazz asked next. Ignoring the eyes she felt on her from Sam and tuck.

“Robin, he's pretty cool. We do patrol together, he's going to introduce me to superboy 2. Like a real introduction not under duress.”

“Are You hanging with all the bats in gotham?” Sam asked

“The younger ones. Some more than others. Mostly just robin red robin and nightwing. Red robin doesn't really seem to like hanging out with me though.”

“Danny, what about school friends or in your local community?” jazz asked

“Uh, I have regular chats with Lian but she's a friend of hood's daughter. They are in the other side of the country though.”

“Danny…”

“Um Collin will chat with me… Eric and chips bring me parts for trade. They will sometimes stick around for a chat…”

“Hey man…”

“I don't need new friends. I have you guys. And my family.”

“Well speaking of family it looks like tuck found ellie.” Sam cut through the dropping mood.

“She's In the zone.”

“Ah man!” Danny pouted, putting his head in his palm elbow on the table. “I've left her so many messages. Wonder why she is there? And so long.”

“Does it have to do with frighty? You said he fought hood? Did he out you? Like do we need to worry about an invasion force coming through the Fenton portal?”

“No, he promised to keep it to himself and give us time to fix things. But maybe he took Ellie to the zone?”

“Next ghost we dump back into the zone we will send with a message to Ellie ok?”

“Thanks guys.” Danny smiled a bit dopey at his fraid. It turned a bit watery as he turned to jazz. “I'm sorry about tearing apart our family.” He croaked out.

“You did no such thing danny! Mom and dad tore apart our family.” Jazz said angrily. “I'm sorry I was wrong. I'm so sorry Danny.”

“Both of you knock that shit off.” Sam said. “This is a good moment, we are finally reunited.”

“Thanks to my too fine Hacking skills.” Tuck cut in making a show of it.

“It's nothing either of you should be apologizing for. But team phantom is back in business.”

“Wait, we need a new name, and!” tuck hit a button and Mc Lars schrodinger's cat started. “You now have a theme song.”

Danny laughed while the girls groaned.

“We are not going by team schrodinger. That sounds dumb.”

“We can still be team phantom.” Jazz said before her phone buzzed. “Ugh I need to go.” Jazz pouted. “But you will keep in touch now.”

“Yes! Oh my ancients, yes! Ecto phones should be secure, we can text. I'll keep you guys updated.”

“Same, let's bail before my mom starts hunting me down. Later Danny.”

“Catch ya later my man.” And the line got cut with Danny waving at the camera.

Chapter Text

Colin knocked on the warehouse door. The door was opened by Frank who was working while Danny was in his groove. The sound of music echoing through the warehouse. “Yeah kid?”

“I got some stuff to trade.” Colin commented without making eye contact with the lieutenant.

“Danny’s stuff?” he asked. Getting a nod in return. Colin moved the box away from himself and up towards the man so he could look inside of it at the mix of electronic parts. Frank after a quick look over, thumbed into the warehouse letting him pass. But fell in behind him as Colin took the trek to Danny's work area in the back of the warehouse. His speaker went under the table, playing chasing rainbows by kesha. “Kiddo, you got someone here to see you.” Frank said, tapping on the table to get Danny's attention. The kid engrossed with what looked like a chunk of computer and on his phone sitting up on the table with a video call pointed at his work. Danny and who he was on the phone with singing along.

“Hey Colin. “ Danny acknowledged him with barely looking up.

“Dude what are you doing? That is a waste of real estate man!” Tucker shouted through the phone.

“I’m making due with what I have with the least modification.” Danny countered. Colin set the box on the table but was careful not to jostle Danny's work.

“You are making this thing obsolete as you build it.” Tucker whined.

“I’m not good enough with modifying circuit boards without specific prints. That’s your thing, Tuck." Danny argued. “Plus I can compensate by just making more.”

“That is such a waste!”

“You aren’t here to help besides tips, Tuck.”

“And you are ignoring them!”

“I gotta move along soon Danny.” Colin interrupted their arguing.

“Oh sorry Colin.” Danny said moving his stuff back. A green glow around the memory card he had been working on to keep it from being damaged. Danny then grabbed the box pulling it towards him and digging out parts.

“Let me see?” Tucker called out. Danny lifted the phone with his powers so the camera pointed in the box. “Oh man! Is that a model SK Wayne-tech phone? Dude, that's only a few years old!”

“It’s broken.” Colin added.

“It’s probably a battery failure or a few broken connections. Easy fix. And perfect for upgrading.” Tucker said casually.

“For you maybe.” Danny joked.

“What can I get for all of this?” Colin asked before they could go off about more of the broken tech.

“What do you want for it?”

“Dude! Danny, are you like a tech dealer? You got scavengers roaming the city collecting parts for you?”

“Tuck, it's not that. That sounds weird.” Danny laughed. But gave Colin a bright smile. Colin didn’t make direct eye contact but caught it. “But you tell me what you want. I appreciate all the stuff.”

“Could use a few cases of ramen, cases of water and gatorade, and” Colin started. Danny started scribbling on a piece of paper. Before switching to digging in a crate under his table.

Danny came back up with an electric tea kettle. “I modified this for you too cause you always ask for the cup of noodle.” he held it out to him. “It doesn’t need to be plugged in. it has a built-in power source and never needs charging.”

“Thanks.” Colin said taking it. “But I need…”

“It’s not in trade. It’s a gift. Or trade for you know chatting with me sometimes.” Danny placed it in his hands. “And this.” he handed Colin the piece of paper. “Says you can ask the guys for whatever you want. I think Sarah is running the exchange stores today, let her pinch your cheeks and dote on ya, she’ll give ya one of the carts too.”

“Sure. thanks.” Colin said. Taking the stuff. “Anything you are looking for big? Something that might be worth cash?”

“I need a washer or a dryer. Dryer preferred, but I can make a washer work. I also need…” he dug through another pile of notebooks flipping through one with jolteon as its cover. “I need 5 tons of copper wire.”

Colin took a step back. “Dude you’re building a generator?” Tuck said excitedly from his video call.

“Working on it. But it’s slow going to get the parts for the big one.” Danny answered.

“Why are you building a generator? That sounds huge?” Colin asked.

“Oh we are going to try and get the alley off the grid. A bunch of residents keep getting cut off by the power company cause they can’t pay their bills cause they keep raising the rates, and tacking on all these weird service charges after all these attacks, even if they didn’t have to pay to fix any of the infrastructure! It’s stupid. Plus after the “riot” at the docks the cops cut the power to everyone on this side of the island! Dr. Leslie struggled to keep her generators running through the whole thing! Not to mention all the innocent people in the alley! So I'm building one of mine. And it’s renewable so it’s cleaner too.”

“For the alley or Hood?” Colin asked skeptically.

“Both. it’s the same thing right?” Danny shrugged. “But we can get everyone here, electricity that the cops and stuff can’t cut off.”

“Sam is going to be so jealous you are making more progress than her.” Tucker laughed.

“So then everyone in the alley will be beholden to the Red Hood for power?” Colin asked a bit skeptically.

“I guess so, but he’s not going to charge people stupid amounts for it. And we only need to worry about maintenance of the delivery.” Danny added. “It’ll be a good thing.”

“Sure.” Colin placated the delusional kid, “thanks for the kettle.”

“See ya Colin and thanks.” Danny waved at him as he left. Colin ignored the back and forth between the two other kids as he went to see Sarah.

He had to make several trips to his tricycle that Danny had built him a small engine for so it had the power of one of those electric scooters which was handy when he had been pedaling around with the supplies he’d garner up for the other street kids. On his last trip he was stopped by one of Red Hood’s men. Not just any but his second in command. Jay peters.

“Hey kid, can I ask you a few questions?” Jay asked.

“For free?” Colin asked. Jay raised a brow at him but pulled out some cash. “Sure.” Colin answered, taking the first couple of bills.

“You trade shit with Danny pretty often. Any chance you’d find yourself interested in just hanging out with the kid?” Jay asked.

“Are you asking a question or for a job?” Colin asked for clarification.

“I’m just asking, if you think you could be friends with Danny.” Jay let out a deep sigh. “I’m not sure if you’ve noticed but he’s lacking in the friends department.”

“He was on the phone with what sounded like a friend.” Colin tossed to him.

“I’m not paying for sarcasm, kid.” Jay sassed him back. “Look he doesn’t really have friends his own age here. And he desperately needs some.”

“I’m not looking to put myself in a position to distract Red Hood's prized little builder bee.” Colin finally answered.

“What? He’s not, is that what you little knuckle heads are thinking?” he glared at Colin’s hand stretched out to him.

“That’s a new question.”

“You kids are getting too big for your britches.” but Jason handed him another 20.

“Pretty obvious. Danny’s nice. But he somehow got Hood to break his own rules about letting kids work in the gang. And he’s even got bodyguards on the kid from his home with Harley and Ivy to here. Where he builds all kinds of crazy things for the Red Hood gang.” Colin answered.

Jay's face palmed himself. “Ok, let’s back things up a bit. Danny doesn’t work for Red Hood's gang. Red hood gives the kid a work space as a favor. And to try to have eyes on him in case something goes wrong. Harley is not an attentive sitter.”

“That’s not hard to believe.”

“Right, so the kid doing something besides building crazy machines all day when he’s not at school would be great. Helpful even. How about a payment to spread the word around the other kids. That being friends with Danny won’t get you on a shit list with the gang or hood.” Jay asked.

Colin shifted from foot to foot for a minute before answering. “I can’t take money for that. Because it won’t do anything. Nobody with any sense is going to hang out with him. You might find somebody to pay to hang out with him. But I wouldn't call that friendship. And kids don;t take well to fake friends when they find out." Colin looked up at Jay's face for a minute before looking away. “Me and a few others take everything the others gather to trade with Danny. Because the others won’t even go near him.”

Jay’s shoulders dropped in defeat. “Right. Thanks kid.” he handed Colin another 20. “I appreciate the little bit of social time you give Danny.”

Colin gave him a nod then went on his way to grab his last case of ramen and go back to his trike to go meet up with the other alley kids who scavenged up the parts.

Chapter Text

“And I thought Jack's documents were a lot.” Selina said going over the files from a new computer Danny had built tied to several new servers to help them store their own additional information and tie it to Tuckers network and servers. He proved to be a very skilled hacker. If a little distractible like her son.

“Pft, of course ours is better than mr. Fenton’s. we are way better organized and we you know actually just asked the ghosts questions.” Sam sassed a bit.

“That’s not what she meant, you sassy child.” Harley snarked back. “Some of these details are just overwhelmingly depressing. And that’s coming from a bunch of Gothamites.”

“Oh.”

“It’s alright Sam. We are just happy you kids have been keeping records.” Pam chipped in on the video call chat.

Sam blushing and stuttering through a non-apology. Making Tucker and Danny snicker at her embarrassment.

“Boys don’t pick on Sam.” Pam lightly scolded with a smirk. She knew what she was doing. She had a fangirl. A real life fangirl. She was going to bask in it. Sue her. “Dinner should be done soon,” she peaked into the oven before closing it again and joining the others at the table.

“Sam is actually why we have such extensive notes. The whole hero thing was her idea. Thought it would be Batman like to take notes on everything to reference later.” Danny gave her the credit she deserved.

“Really?” Selina asked, a mixture of impressed and bemused at her inspiration.

Sam just shrugged on the screen in front of them. “He is supposed to be a great hero. It seemed like I didn't know the right way to go about things. It was better than those two just coping comics, video games and movies.”

“Hey!” The boys protested. “That worked!” Sam rolled her eyes.

“My fighting is great thanks to video games and movies!” Danny argued.

“And they make great inspiration! Like pat! She was a great idea I implemented.” Tucker added

Sam and Danny both looked at him skeptically. “Sometimes when you talk to your pda it comes off creepy romantic like.” Danny said.

“Especially when you hug and kiss it.” Sam added.

Harley snorted and started cackling at Tucker's embarrassed, scandalized face. Bud and Lou coming over at the sound.

“You have pda with your pda?” Pam asked.

“You have no room to talk Ivy, don't think I'm not still scarred from some of your public plant affections when I was a kid.” Jason tried to spare the kid a little.

“What are you having for dinner?” Sam asked changing the subject.

“Casserole, rice, cheese, tofu, eggs and veggies.”

“Gross, where's the meat?” Tuck asked with a whine.

“Tucker, that's rude!” Sam scolded

“We eat meat sometimes. But mostly vegetarian. I haven't had to fight my food since moving here.” Danny said excitedly.

“That sounds like a hell of an improvement.”

“Sounds like a downgrade to me. Wonder if fruit loop has that issue.” Tuck tilted his head in thought.

“We'll have to ask Jazz.”

“Why?” Danny asked, setting the table with his powers while everyone was reading.

“Your dad and Jazz have all but moved in with him. They have dinner over there most nights.” The sounds of crashing dishes brought everyone out of their reading and Jason out of his seat, Moving towards Danny.

“What? Why? Is he… did he overshadow dad? Is Jazz…” Danny started panic babbling, grabbing his head. Jason put a hand on his shoulder trying to ground him before the panic got too far.

“Calm down kiddo.” Jason worked to project calm. Danny was projecting fear/worry/protect

“Nice going Sam.” Tucker gave her an unimpressed look. Harley got up and started cleaning up the broken dishes, Selina taking her son's hand in support.

“I didn't know he'd freak out!” Her phone chimed. “Valerie is here.” She got up to get the door before her parents. Tucker slammed his head onto the table.

“Jazz sleeps with a ghost shield in her room and sets the house weapons at night.” Tucker tried to reassure Danny.

“Hey dumbass! Sam says you're freaking out and I can't physically beat that nonsense out of you so knock it off!” Valerie took up a seat at the table in her nasty burger uniform, face annoyed before replaced with shock she turned on Sam yelling “you could have warned me his parents were on this call! What kind of first impression is that! Uuugh!”

“An honest one.” Sam crossed her arms rolling her eyes.

“And who are you?” Ivy asked, eyes narrowed on the new young woman.

“This is Valerie.” “I'm Red Huntress.” “She's Danny’s ex.”

“So are you Sam! I don’t see why that is relevant!”

“At Least I've always been his friend and didn't try and kill him!”

“We have been over this, didn't know it was him! And I said I was sorry!”

“You just actually killed him. Twice.” Tucker cut in leaning his head on the palm of his hand while his elbow rested on the table judging the two girls.

“The first time was an accident!” Sam threw her arms out.

The yelling gets cut off by Danny’s slight laughter. “Nice to see some things haven't changed since I left.”

“No man, they both still fight all the time like this. But they haven't gone back to shooting at each other.” Tuck looked at the stun silent adults on Danny’s end of the call.

Harley breaks with a long whistle. “Damn that apple again. Selina you need to work double time to punt it into the ocean.” Selina put her face in her hands. And Ivy patted her on the back.

“Jason?” Danny asked eyebrows furrowed in concern at the emotions he was struggling with controlling, Danny’s own panic abated by his concern for his uncle's turmoil.

“I need a minute.” Jason said before taking off up the stairs.

“If he's a halfa why didn't he just fly?” Tucker asked, looking at Danny who was staring at the ceiling.

“He's not able to do that consistently yet.” Danny brows furrowed at the ceiling. “He's just screaming on the roof.”

Harley snorted. “He's fine.

“Wait that's Red Hood?”

“Yeah.” Several of them answered.

“He's way younger than I thought he'd be.”

Ivy got up to get the food out and Harley got new place settings. Ruffling Danny’s hair when he shrank into his shoulders in shame.

“What were you freaking out about anyway Danny?” Valerie chose to March through the weird tension.

“What fruitloop is doing to Jazz and dad and I can’t protective them.”

Valerie rolled her eyes and crossed her arms. “Seriously? Do you think I'm incapable of handling things without you?”

“What? No! I…”

“Is it because a bunch of girls are in charge here now Fenton?”

“No! Of course not! Just…” “Hey! What am I chopped liver?!”

“Wow Danny, that's so sexist of you. What would Jazz say?” Sam teased. Her and Valerie share side eyes.

“I didn't! Ugh!”

“I got my eyes on vla…” she saw Danny’s eyes go wide. “The fruitloop is under control. He's acting weird so I'm extra vigilant. Did sick Boxy on him the other day. I blew a few of the guys in whites vans while they were having lunch at my work on my break. So he got plenty of time to mess with the jerk.”

Ivy sent Selina a look at that. A bit impressed with the child’s gumption.

“Did he hurt Boxy though?” Danny asked worriedly.

“No, I didn’t even have to shoo him to your family's portal. He sent him back himself safely through his own with all the boxes he wanted from his place. His display cases. After he emptied them. Boxy came back today actually all fine. He just had to get from one portal to the other in the zone after going by his haunt. Said he was asked about you. Which made him worried about you.”

“If he's not hurting the other ghosts I vote we sick Klemper on him next.” Sam suggested.

“That's not fair to Klemper. And we don't wanna test his newfound patience. Wherever that's coming from.” Danny said looking deep in thought. “Do you guys think he's feeding his obsessions enough on his work and harrassing dad and Jazz?” He looked over as Jason sat down at his seat in front of his plate.

“Maybe trying to find you is feeding him enough.” Tucker suggested.

“What's this ghost's obsession exactly?” Selina asked not liking the context clues.

“Danny.” The three kids on the screen answered.

Her son groaned. “Guys.” Danny whined. “His obsessions are power/control, my m… Maddie being his wife, by force if necessary. And making me his son because I'm her…” Danny’s eyebrows shot way up as his eyes widened.

“Hey man…” Tucker asked, he wasn't sure which halfa needed more support.

“Does he know I'm not Maddie's son?” Danny cut him off.

“I don't know. I shoot first and don't ask him questions.” Valerie answered looking at Sam and Tuck who both shrugged.

“We'd need to ask Jazz.” Sam replied.

“You think he might be losing his obsession with you.” Tucker said.

“OH thank the ancients for small miracle's.” Sam cheered.

“Wait!” Val spoke up. “That doesn't make sense cause he's still looking for a way to find Danny. He hounds you guys and the other ghosts.” She summed her wrist armor, pulling out a thumb drive.

“Do you have powers?” Jason asked.

“Ecto infused nanobots make up my suit after a moment of insanity from technus after fruitloop manipulated him.” She looked at him and flashed her eyes, they glowed red. “Fused to my blood. And I should have been a lucky one, I didn’t grow up in this hell hole.” she scoffed.

“Maybe don’t take crazy weapons and armor from complete strangers Val, to murder innocent ghosts, and you wouldn’t have had a problem.” Sam lectured.

“WOULD YOU…!” “I think Red Huntress suits Val great, and we’ve had our ups and downs. But she’s really pulled through for us. I’m uh pretty glad Val took the fruitloop for all he’d give up.”

Valerie, Sam, and Tuck were all staring at Danny with different looks on their faces before Sam cut the quiet with a scoff. “Any idiot could have done that with her suit with the way you’d just stare at her all heart eyes while she was shooting at you!”

“I didn’t have heart eyes in our fights! I was too busy flying for my afterlife.”

Harley started choking on her food before clearing it and falling out of her chair madly cackling. Ivy and just waved off those who were concerned. Not Sam and Val. while Jason dropped his fork and just grabbed his head again. Selina was taking deep breaths through her nose.

“Excuse you! I am an excellent shot! And I can prove it! Unlike you! Miss high and mighty!” Val waved her usb drive around.

“They are totally worse than you Sam about arguing.” Danny told Tuck just watching.

“You think this is bad, wait till they put you in the middle of it. I feel like a ping pong ball being hit with a bat.” Tuck countered. “It’s like Paulina and Sam all over again.”

“Tucker plug this in and download my camera footage for the month.”

“Are we checking you shot vs hit count?” Tucker said with a sigh, but doing as he was asked. Eyes going green as he kept his finger and thumb on the drive to unlock it.

“No, all my interactions with fruitloop. Because he’s totally obsessed with Danny still.”

“But why would he be? His obsession was mom and killing dad. And then it changed to adding me when he found out I was a halfa. Maybe a change the other way is slower?” Danny asked while Tuck quickly scanned through the video files cutting all the pertinent parts and filing them away as he went.

Ivy kicked at Harley under the table so she’d start getting control of herself. Slowly getting back to her seat. But still snorting occasionally.

“Well I can tell you he doesn’t want to kill Mr. Fenton anymore. He runs away the very few times he shows up to fight ghosts. And only ones who are causing semi- serious problems when I'm delayed. As dead as things have been around here, I'd almost bet on Plasmius catching ghosts and releasing them back in the zone when they are acting up.”

“What?” the 3 other teens said. Tuck cursed as he cut a video incorrectly, whining as he fixed it.

“That’s why I wanted to talk to Danny myself. He’s acting weird. Well weirder than usual for him.” Valerie rolled her eyes. “Your dad is a mess. Like grade a depressed. Worse than my dad was right after…” she looked away for a minute to regain her composure. “And the fruitloop, Mr. Lancer and my dad keep going out and doing bonding things to help him out.”

“My parents think your mom killed you and guilt is eating away at your dad for covering for her crime, but unwilling to see her in jail.” Sam added. “And that’s why they got divorced and why fruitloop is siding with Jack and trying to get him to disclose where your body is.”

“Seriously?” Tuck and Val asked, looking at Sam concerned.

“My parents just think you ran away and I got a huge tear filled hug from them the other day, happy you finally got in contact with me.”

“Tuck, did you snitch?” Val asked angrily.

“No. I've apparently had less panic fueled asthma attacks since we got in contact. So it was obvious. But they told me for Danny’s safety I needed to keep a tight lid on anything he told me because he might not be safe.” Tuck’s eyes stopped glowing green and he met Danny’s “i think they might be talking with your dad too. But just didn’t tell me. We’ve had Jazz over a lot of dinner too. Whenever she can. But mom and dad haven’t asked her anything except about school and stuff.”

“Tell your parents thanks for me Tuck.” Danny said a bit wetly.

“Danny, if you don’t want my dad around yours, I'll tell him to back off.” Valerie said with conviction. “Your dad probably deserves to let the guilt eat him. God knows Jazz thinks so.”

“What?” Danny and Selina both asked concerned.

“Ok, so Jazz tried to keep it cool for you, but she is pissed. Like high risk for Dora’s necklace problems pissed.”

“Or Spectra. Between your dad, Jazz and the fruitloop. We have a bulletin out on the ghost watch board for her or Bertrand. But Jazz has been caught in screaming matches with your dad at school and outside the library. She goes home to sleep and only goes to the fruitloops for dinner with your dad when forced or maybe when she feels bad or something. Which I think is most of the time. Things are crazy around here. The a-listers aren’t even bullying us anymore.”

“I don’t see why that's surprising.” Valerie defended her old friends. “If rumors are going around that our friend died, or something else happened to him, I'm sure they’d feel bad tormenting you on top of that pain.”

“Like it’s ever stopped them before when anyone was dealing with trauma.” Sam scoffed.

“Do you 3 think Jack is suicidal? Or anything?” Selina asked cautiously. Danny looked panicked at the thought. Jason put his hand on top of Danny’s.

“I don’t think so. But Jazz would have a better idea.” Sam answered looking at the others who shrugged.

“I have our crazy fruitloop video montage ready.” Tucker spoke up. “Dinner and a show you guys before we have to split?”

**************************************

Later that night in the quiet room with a bottle of wine.

“That is so much your twos kid. It’s like he got all his parents' worse habits. I love it.” Harley laughed.

“You are not helping Harley.”

“Like your one to talk about poor partner choices.”

“Hey I'm proof even the craziest of us can learn to do better and correct course. Considering Brucey’s dating history, hopefully we caught it young enough.”

**************************************************

Red hood on call with Nightwing from his safe house while pacing. “I swear to god I'm shooting his dick off. Why are his worst dysfunctional habits hereditary! Tell me the little demon brat doesn’t go for partners who want to murder him. Tell me one of them has a functional brain cell geared to self preservation.”

“I mean… Do you want me to lie to you little wing?” Nightwing decided they’d have a brother bonding trip going shopping for new tables from the sounds of this phone call. And drywall patching supplies.

Chapter Text

“Thank you Lois.” Bruce said taking the cup of coffee she offered him.

“‘Preciate it love.” Clark gave the man a disapproving glare thanking his wife for his own cup. They waited for her to join them.

Once Lois was seated she dug into the fancy pastries from Paris John had brought paid for with Bruce's money. The bouquet of flowers Bruce had brought sitting in a vase in the window. When John tried to take one of the pastries she smacked the back of his hand with an unimpressed look.

“Clark has suggested you have some reservations with Damian’s proposal.”

Lois stared Bruce down across the table as she chewed her pastry bite. John was quick to jump into the matter at hand, dropping his hand lightly on the table between them. “I can attest to the little nippers character. Your boy won't be in danger from the lad. He's a right good one. Cannot overstate how good of character the rascal is or we all be bloody well fu… screwed otherwise.” John switched mid word at Clark's glare. Clark rolling his eyes at the still inappropriate word. Jon and Damian were upstairs for god's sake. His boy could hear.

“Would've been easier to just say the kids an angel.” Clark scolded.

John scoffed. “I wouldn't insult the brat like that. Angels are right bastards the lot of them.” Clark glowered at the man's response. Bruce was already pinching the bridge of his nose.

“My concern is not with Jon spending time with a new meta hero in Gotham. That is completely fine in my book. And Selina is a complex person but she isn't a bad person. I'm ok with Jon spending time with her son. My problem is with the hours you boys keep on a school night in Gotham.” Lois smacked her husband's hand as he went for a pastry. He wanted to throw her under the bus fine. But the bribe was just for her then.

“Schrodinger keeps curfew. 1 am he has to be back on his family turf.” John was quick to offer.

“I'm sure Harley Quinn, Poison Ivy and Catwoman are great at enforcing rules.” Clark scoffed.

“Surprisingly yes they are.” Bruce chimed in. “Damian's reports show they are consistent, give appropriate check-ins and time frames and not be overly rigid if he breaks rules for cause. Schrodinger also takes great care to follow their rules, though he will bend them so he’s not breaking them on a technicality if a situation calls for it. Or there is great need. He will put others well being above following their protocols. He shows remorse and regret when he has broken rules by mistake. So he does better than most of my brood did at his age or even still.” Lois looked at Bruce amused, seeing the man can recognize good parenting around rules while being hard ass about his own.

“And if not them, that fella Croc runs a tight ship. A diligent dorm marm.”

“Killer Croc?” Clark asked, shocked.

“Yes, Waylon seems to have aligned himself with the siren’s and found employment as an occasional caretaker for Selina’s ward.” John rolled his eyes at Bruce's pretentious way of saying babysitter.

“Good, I'm sure it is doing him a lot of good to have a normal job.”

“Lois the man is a known cannibal!”

“Not sure I'd call it normal, but man seems a good fit. seems reformed and if not more choosy about the blokes he eats. Treat him like family. Real close knit bunch.”

“Yes, and not very trusting.” Clark narrowed his eyes at John, “How'd you and dark get in their good graces so quick?”

“Boy’s a fan. And not all of dark is in his good graces. He and Deadman didn't get a good first impression. Sad really.”

“Fan of what? Your light shows?” Clark was a bit incredulous at the claim. But he caught Bruce’s attention sharp on Constantine. He probably wanted to know too. See if it was replicatable. It hadn’t been brought up in the meeting.

“My music.” John clarified pouring some of his whiskey from his flask now that his coffee cup had room.

“You have a band?” Lois asked an amused lilt to her question.

“Did. bout 40 years ago. Got wee popular in the punk scene back ‘ome, seems we made it international too in the underground.” John tapped his spoon a bit. “Now that I think about it. Might be why Destruction was so quick on the return. Didn’t even have to try to butter ‘em up.”

“Who?” Clark asked.

“Don’t worry about it boyscout. Get your panties in a bunch anyway.”

“And he knows about your band from 40 years ago.” Lois asked, a bit impressed.

“Not too surprising. He’s really into music. And little rebel that one. Strong anti-establishment, anti-government, anti-facist punk. Knows his roots and musical history to go with it. But I was shocked he recognized my mug too. Feel like I looked better then. Anyways, forgot all about being mad at me blunder one looks at me. He’s up my ass begging for an autograph. Had to be pried off by his two oldest.”

“Zee’s report didn’t have him holding Constantine's magic knowledge in high regard.” Bruce decided that tidbit needed sharing. But not old John. Bats would have called anyone else out on none pertinent information.

“Wonder where those strong negative associations came from.” Clark said a bit ruefully sarcastic for him.

“Considering what he’s been through in his short life and shorter afterlife, if anyone has the right to those worldviews it’s that little bugger.” John defended the kid. Like hell he was gonna let this goody-goody propaganda boy rag on the kid for standing against everything that hurt him. “Last person he needs judgment from is you or anyone else in the league. If anyone is to blame for it, it’d be ours.”

“I didn’t mean it like…”

“Sure you didn’t.”

“What’s Jon’s current curfew and bedtime?” Batman asked, ignoring the other two. He was here to secure permission for Damian's plan since he and Jon met all his requirements. And he had to admit, it was the best plan anyone had to not further strain the divide between their groups.

“Home by 9 pm, bed by 10 pm.” Lois answered. “Unless an emergency comes up. But nights before tests or projects being due I don't allow that unless it’s absolutely world ending.”

“Schrodinger’s has been logged to be 1 am school nights, and 3 am none school nights. He doesn’t always come in contact with my brood. So we can’t log a pattern if there are corresponding events to where he either doesn’t go out or doesn’t leave crime alley. On Top of the string of current events that have spooked them about him leaving their protective area. As it were, I'd be more comfortable with a sporadic schedule, so it’s not as trackable. Maybe a slow introduction period so Schrodinger is not spooked or overwhelmed. He doesn’t seem to have strong emotional control in the field.”

John scoffed. “For a traumatized child literally made of emotions I'd say you got that arse backwards. He has amazing emotional control. Damn right saint.”

“You saw what he did to the mad hatter in a fit of anger. And it was enough for you to ignore direct instructions and initially wish to remove him for the safety of those around him.” Bruce argued.

“Yeah, and I looked it up after. Wish I hadn’t woken the bloke up. Kid went easy on him. And after meeting him, and knowing what he could have done. Boy showed restraint. Great restraint. And does every damn minute he walks this earth without razing it to the ground in my opinion. We got lucky with him. You have no bloody damn idea. But give the kid some credit eh.” John said passionately.

“He’s that powerful?” Lois asked John to clarify.

“In comparison, he is a god, we are fleas. Even blue boy. He just hasn’t grown into it yet. Like a newborn kitten, enough parasites bite them, they can’t fight them off and can parish. But to an adult just an annoyance. He’s two years old for a species that compares 100 to 18. He’s got a century till he’s considered a young adult.” John played with his now empty coffee cup. “Lad needs some friends his age, good socialization with humans he can trust and bond with. This is like those key ages for socialization. He is going to be around for all of our universe's existence. Longer even. We miss this window or screw it up, the lasting ramifications we might as well bugger off and let this place torch itself. Help the kiddo make good judgments, think at the least kindly or fondly of humans, even some of them. Some attachment to us to keep us in good graces for that continued restraint as time continues to move along and others show up to bugger it all back up longer after we’re all dead.” John looked up to meet Bruce and Clark’s eyes strongly. “This is what you two idiots fight so hard for. You want a better and brighter future for those who come after. Most of the goody goodies in spandex i’d say do too. That’s the big dream. Well here’s your chance to make a real difference. This kid will have the greatest hold on that future. How we treat him now and help him grow up. That sets it, or ends it.”

Lois snorted. “Damn John, and I thought Bruce was mr. doom and gloom, threats and blackmail. Resting the fate of the universe on my kid’s ability to make friends and me letting him stay out late on school nights.”

“Ergh, i…”

“You just got caught up in the significance of the moment I know.” Lois said while the other two men were silent, probably taking in Constantine's words. Knowing Bruce and how he sees himself as a failure by default or in constant need of improvement. She could see why John’s speech would set off his brooding. Even if he denied it. Lois took the empty coffee mug from John’s hands. “Let me get you a refill real quick.”

“Thanks love.” John gave her an appreciative smile though his eyes locked to her and lingered a moment before he gave her a slight nod.

Lois set John’s refill in front of him and then took her seat again. “Alright. Let’s come up with a suitable schedule that doesn’t destroy Jon’s education or sleep schedule.”

Bruce gave her a nod powering up his tablet he pulled out of the briefcase he brought along. Clark snorted a giggle as Constantine groaned. “for god's sake man, it’s a couple of play dates, not business meetings.”

“It will help us keep a proper schedule and share notes or other commitments or conflicts, to have a shared encrypted calendar.” Bruce countered.

“I’ll go get my personal tablet.” Clark said, walking off to do so.

And this is why his little bin lids are right fucked. John mouthed to Lois behind his coffee mug. Not a chance on their lives to be normal or disorganized like the rest of the world. Lois hid her smile behind her own. But gave a small nod. Bruce running a tight ship probably did lead directly to the amount of chaos his kids partook in to have more control on their lives. But it was good chaos. Hopefully this new one wouldn’t be too different. All of Bruce's kids were good kids. If not high strung much like their father.

“John, do you think what you said about him being made of emotions, that’s part of his attachment to music? To help control his own emotions? Songs have a way of making us feel things.” Lois asked while they waited on Clark. Not like he was being left out of the conversation.

“You know I don't know. But that’s a pretty good idea. Or point to investigate. A Lot of ghosts like singing. Not all but a good few I've come across.” the man leaned back in his chair in thought.

When Clark sat back down, Bruce started up his line of questions again. “Would a schedule just outside of Schrodinger starting with once a week on a changing day schedule, but the 5th week start a 2 day with one being Friday so school is not an issue?”

“Shouldn’t you be asking Selina about her take on this too?” Lois asked.

“Honey, they aren’t trusting the bats enough to co-plan things.”

“Yes, but he’s still Selina's son. And she should have as much say on her son’s activities and associations. Maybe a little more effort could be made, is all I'm saying.”

“Damian, reported he got permission for the joint outings with superboy for patrol from Jason.” Bruce reassured her.

“Who is not the boy's parent.” Lois countered.

“It’s all we have to go by for the moment. And he does seem to hold some level of authority with schrodinger.”

“Bruce, have you tried calling her? Even once.” Lois asked bluntly.

“Honey,” Lois cut Clark off with a finger up to his face.

Bruce met Lois’s steadfast gaze and held it silently before turning back to his tablet. “I’ve tried several numbers I have for her. Most long gone burners is my best guess. And she has either blocked or ignored all my calls no matter what from.”

“What about a voicemail? Have you left her one?”

“No. didn’t see much point.”

“Maybe you should. But please continue.”

****************************************

After Bruce Damian and John left with Jon in tow for a sleepover for the weekend to go over things with the bats, Lois and Clark returned to their living room having seen them all out to the car. “He really needs to get a better handle on trying to co-parent with his ex. Selina isn’t going to take to him taking over everything like that, not like Talia did with Damian.”

“Why would Bruce co-parent Selina's ward with him?” Clark asked, confused as they lounged on their couch.

“Really Clark? Don’t be dense. Bruce can be in denial all he wants. That’s her son. Constantine said as much. He’s 13. When did Selina and Bruce start taking their little on and off fling a bit more risky? Right after his big break off with Talia. When she took advantage of him. The poor man.”

“I would think Bruce of all people would know if this kid was his child. He’s Batman, he could deduce that.”

“Sure Clark.” Lois looked at her husband unimpressed. “Bet.”

“What? No, we aren't being juvenile about this. It’s serious…”

“You're scared you’re wrong smallville?”

“What no! Fine, what do you want to bet?”

“Access to whatever information you have on what’s going on that Bruce didn’t share with me.”

“What no! That’s classified information Lois. Not even the whole league knows. Not even all the founders.”

“Sounding scared.”

“No, please just pick something else.”

“An uninterrupted dinner abroad and an anniversary honeymoon. With minimum to no interruptions.”

“Ok and if I win, we spend our anniversary vacation with my parents and the kids at the farm for a whole week. No work.”

“Fine.” she held out her hand for a shake.

“No technology either.” he tacked on an eyebrow raised. She didn’t retract her hand.

“Fine. i’m right. Any terms you want to add. I’m not scared smallville.” Clark shook on his wifes bet a bit nervous for his friend as assured his wife was. When she was like this she wasn't usually wrong.

Chapter Text

“Can I go?” Danny asked, vibrating in costume fist in front of him pumping up and down. Robin was just outside the edge of crime alley. Like so close Danny would compare it to when he and jazz were younger in the gave for trips and moving his foot or hand to be inches from her in the car. And then move it back when she'd complain to their parents. And Robin had to be doing the same thing. Just poking the line. He could feel Jason's irritation at it too. And it was hilarious

“Sure. But anything feels off come straight home.” Selina said, a little concerned. Kids tended to be more open minded in some ways than adults, but she wouldn't put it past superman to spy on them in some way.

“OK thanks mom!” He full body cheered. “I'm going to meet an alien!” Danny yelled with a laugh darting through the house to the roof.

*************

“Are You sure he's going to come?” Jon asked. Sitting on the gargoyles head they choose at their waiting spot. Head in his hand, elbow on his knee.

“He is here already. We are just waiting for him to gain some confidence.” Damian answered. Looking smug as a pair of glowing green eyes appeared glaring at robin. Floating in front of Superboy. Causing him to stumble back Into the building wall sliding down the gargoyles back to do so. Slowly a pouting mouth appeared followed by the rest of Schrodinger perched on his staff end the other wedged under the gargoyles body.

“How!? And why did you snitch?” The boy whined.

“Why would I give you the upper hand by divulging? Congratulations on sneaking up on the super.” Damian then addressed Jon. “You need to work on your observation skills Superboy.”

“Um hi, I'm Superboy the younger, if my brother is with me I get called Superboy 2.” Jon introduced himself with a wave righting himself on the gargoyle.

“HI, I'm Schrodinger.” Danny waved back. “Are you really an alien?”

Superboy nodded. “Half. My mom's human.”

“Cool, I'm half dead.” Danny responded just staring down Superboy smiling. A green glow emanating from his mask. Damian allowed it to go on for a bit till Jon sent him a quick glance.

“Schrodinger, I believe your fanboying has lasted long enough to no longer be socially acceptable.”

“What?” Schrodinger turned to look at Robin. Blinking a few times the glow of his eyes fading before he shook his head to clear it. “Sorry. What did you say?” Danny asked robin.

“Is that normal?” Jon asked, concerned. “You weren't breathing that whole time.”

“I don't need to breathe. I can stop my heart too.” And Danny did just that. Making Jon reach out towards Danny on instinct to help. Robin grabbed his shoulder to stop him. He didn't want to spook Schrodinger.

“You've made your point, please correct it to your normal biometrics.” Robin instructed, feeling how tense Jon was under his hand. “You zoned out. Was that normal or expected behavior?”

“OH yeah, sorry my obsession kicked in hard. Haven't done that strongly on my more passive one since getting here. I'm good now. Just enjoying the vibe.” Danny bobbed his upper half side to side a bit.

“Do you have your parents permission to hang out with us? My mom wanted me to check first before we did anything for the night.” Jon asked Schrodinger. Who blinked at him in return.

“Uh yeah, i uh actually just asked her before I left the house.”

“Ok, that’ll make my mom feel better.”

Danny turned to Robin, “hey wanna do something funny?”

“I’m curious to your suggestion, but I won't give a definitive without more information.”

“Wanna annoy your brother?”

“That I am always amenable too.” Jon laughed at Robin's answer. Schrodinger walked across his staff and held his hand out to Damian, who took it and followed Schrodinger out onto his staff. Which extended as they walked. When it stopped Danny phased Through Robin and put him at the end.

“OK, now stick your hand out.” Damian did as instructed, Danny snickering before giggling out, “now pull it back.” He snorted again while superboy turned his head to seemingly peer out at an area of crime alley. “Do it again.”

“he is not liking that.” Jon spoke up as he honed in on Jason's cursing and threats.

“What exactly does this task correlate to?” Robin asked but continued the motion.

“Ghost not touching you.” Danny snorted, before he abruptly grabbed the back of robins cape. “Shit run!”

“Throw me towards the building.” Robin said, Jon getting up to hover. Danny had his staff already retracting. But did as Robin said who landed easily getting out his grapple.

Once Danny had his staff unwedged he jumped to the next building, “go, go, he's headed this way.”

“I'm faster.” Super grabbed robin's arm and then flew to Schrodinger and grabbed his taking off in the direction Robin had intended for them to go. The kitty boy was still laughing. And Jon noted how he barely felt Schrodinger's weight in his hand. And the way he held himself didn't seem to match how it should.

“He was so mad.” Danny let out between laughs, leaning on his staff after Superboy set him and robin down on a new roof a few blocks away.

“He was yelling.”

“Can you explain this ghost I'm not touching you?” Robin asked.

“A ghosts haunt is kind of a extension of themselves, so doing it to his haunt has the same effect.” Danny took in both boys faces and their emotions. “You have older siblings you've done I'm not touching you right? It's like annoying little sibling 101. I did it to my big sister every family road trip at least once.”

“I’m not sure I fully understand what we just did to red hood. But I do believe we have caused him annoyance. I do have older siblings. Mostly brothers, but I do not know what not touching someone accomplishes to cause annoyance." Robin added.

“I have an older brother, but we didn’t really grow up together. I don’t know what that is either.”

Danny stared at both of them. Before smirking. “Oh I'm going to teach you two soooooo much. You’re older brothers aren’t prepared for the physiological terror I'm going to equip you with.”

“I’m not sure I should terrorize my big brother.” Jon replied when Schrodinger walked up to him before putting his pointer finger in his face and not moving while making eye contact and smiling, keeping his finger just from touching his nose following when Jon leaned away. “What are you doing?”

“I’m not touching you.” Danny replied, smiling wider. Following Jon’s head as he tried to move away even when floating.

“Stop!” Jon said. Danny immediately stopped and landed.

“Feels weird and uncomfortable doesn’t it? The anticipation is killing you isn’t it. Waiting for that next move.” Danny laughed. “When you do it to your siblings, you can have the added bonus do it where they can see, but not your parents. And when they complain they seem crazy. And it makes them more annoyed. I’ve used it to get my sister in trouble when she was being overbearing. But usually parent’s first response to fighting between siblings is to stop touching or hitting or whatever, but you are technically doing either.”

“You are gaslighting them.” Robin said. “Making them appear to others to have a faulty sense of reality or logic or appear untrustworthy.”

“Yep. but it’s your older sibling, so it’s ok. They probably did something to deserve it. Rules of the universe, younger siblings get annoying privilege, and older siblings get embarrassing and bossy privilege.” Danny said.

Robin raised an eyebrow, “you are claiming Superboy and I have birthright to torment our older siblings?”

“Duh, that’s like younger sibling 101. You guys have siblings.” Danny scrunched up his nose, “did your older siblings lie to you and say you had to do everything they said cause they are older? Cause jazz totally tried that on me early on and I made sure to make that week extra hell for her. For the audacity.”

“Don’t you love your big sister?” Jon asked, a bit worried.

“Yeah. of coarse. She loves me too. But it’s sibling rights. I can make things hard for her, but not anyone else. Hell, my existence made life hard for her. Cause she took care of us. Doesn’t mean I didn't get my revenge when she embarrassed me or stuff. Best is just like ignoring what she says to her face. But verbally acting like you agree. That’s gold.”

“I was an only child till I was 10.” Robin stated for clarification.

“I was an only child till I was 8, and then Superboy didn’t live with us for a while though. And then he said he was an adult and left. He comes home a lot though.” Jon answered.

“How does that work if they are older?” Danny asked

“I was raised in secret by my mother. My father already had a long history of adopting children. Who became my brothers when I met them and my father.”

“My brother is a half brother. And he’s my dad’s clone.”

That drew Schrodinger's attention. “Really? My little sister is a clone too.”

“You have a clone sibling?” Robin stumbling a bit in his delivery of the question. “Who are they a clone of?”

“Me. well me and a crazy fruitloop stalker. He aged her up to a few years younger than me. She’s really cool though.”

“Where is she? And your older sister? You have not spoken of them before.”

“I’m not 100% sure yet. On my little sister. Trying to get a message to her. I sent Cujo to find her. And he hasn't come back yet.” Danny shrugged in response.” older sister is living with our dad back home. But I got a hold of her kind of recently so that’s been great!”

“Wait! My brother is half my dad’s clone! Doesn’t that make yours your daughter since she is half your clone?”

“We sometimes use sister/cousin/daughter to refer to her. Or vice versa. When she’s being bratty she’ll call me mom or dad. Dad more often, fruit loop is always mom. He hates it. And he grew her in his lab. So that counts as a pregnancy we voted, he can suck it.”

“Does that make Lex his mom?” Jon asked Robin.

Who was silent for several minutes before he answered. “Yes.” Robin paused again. “Shall we continue our plans to patrol for the evening? I would like time to contemplate this new information.”

***********************************

“I’m not touching you.” Danny said to the would be carjacker. Who screamed when Danny put his whole arm through the guy but kept up his visibility. “Still not touching you.” he smiled, his grin wider than his face and teeth sharp.

Jon dropped the other tied up accomplice next to that one. Eyes wide and maybe he dropped him from a little to high. Robin contemplated Schrodinger's lessons, he swung his katana stopping it just short of the man Jon just dropped “i am also not touching you. However that can be remedied should you not clean your acts. Take this as a warning.”

“I am also currently not touching anyone.” Jon said, looking around.

“We’ll work on it.” Danny said to Jon. “Robin, your line delivery is good. You moved too fast though. Go slower. Build up the anticipation, they squirm more.”

****************************************************

Jon hovered over the disarmed goon hands inches from his face and shoulders like he was going to grab him and toss him. face just as close to the panicked man. “I’m not touching you…” Jon narrowed his eyes after delivery. The man swallowed, barely nodding in agreement. “But I will if you don’t surrender.” the man answered by dropping his knife and raising his hands. Bat cuffs suddenly appeared just to the side of Superboy’s shoulder. Who grabbed them and made quick work of the man.

“That one was great. On all counts. Do that to your brother. Like you are going to squish his head. And to throw him off kiss his forehead and run, after he protests and yell like he’s going after you." Schrodinger said, becoming visible.

“Kissing is a physical sign of affection, mixing the signals further. Good tactic. ” Damian mussed.

“Yeah and you don’t normally get scolded for showing affection to your siblings, so double hit when they snitch.” Danny phased the cuff’s chain through a light post to hold the man. “Taught that one to my best friend's little sister. His mom tells him to be nice to his sister, she's just loving you. It’s great.”

“Got it.” Jon said with a nod.

******************************

“Stop!” Tim snapped. Pointed his spoon at Damian sitting across from him.

“Stop what Timothy?” Damian asked. Ignoring his father looking at the two over top of his newspaper.

“You know what! Touching me with your foot.”

“I’m afraid I do not know what you are talking about Timothy. I am not touching you. Father, I believe Timothy is in need of more mandated bed rest." Damian said casually, continuing his breakfast.

“You are doing it now! Right now!”

“I am not.”

“Damian?” Bruce said in a scolding tone.

“Father.” Damian answered, looking at the man.

“Stop kicking your brother please.”

“But I am not kicking him father. I’m not even touching him.”

“That foot of yours keeps coming into my personal bubble! That’s touching.”

“Am I touching you Timothy? Or are you just uncomfortable with my presence so close? Maybe you are heading into a caffeine overdose hallucination? Because I can assure you I am not touching you.”

“You are in my space!”

“But not touching you, which is your complaint.” Damian smirked as Tim's eye started to twitch. It was gone in the time it took Bruce to sigh. Which just had Tim vibrating in indignation.

“Boys, it’s too early for arguments. You have school and work. You need to try and start the day in a calm manner.”

“Of course father.” Damian said. Then planted his foot right next to Tim's again ignoring his glares.

Duke just kept looking between the two lips squeezed tight. He did not want whatever the hell this was to be turned on him. Best to keep his head down. But he did note nothing was thrown this whole meal, but Tim looked close with that spoon. Normally it was Damian.

*************************

“Kon? What are you…”

“Whatever that kid did to Jon make him fix it now.”

“Wha…” Tim gaped , still shocked that Connor had broke into the batcave just before patrol. “What’s wrong with Jon? Damian you didn’t report anything off about your patrol.” he turned to the demon brat getting suited up. “Did you do something?”

“Jon was fine. We had an uneventful patrol.”

Kon was staring down the demon brat. “What did you use to cut Tim's grapple line?”

“Tsk, a batarang. Nice to see he still has not gotten over our first spat.”

“You tried to kill me! That’s not a spat!”

“Ok so they didn’t switch bodies.” Kon answered. Getting several bat heads to snap to him.

“What?” Steph asked, a bit speechless. Damian finished preparing and headed towards the bikes.

“Report Superboy.” Batman said, coming up to him with a deep frown. “Do not leave the cave robin.”

“Tsk,” Damian said with his arms crossed standing on the platform.

“Did Jon try and kill you?” the Duke asked, grasping the towel around his neck.”

“No!” Kon was quick to counter. “He’s just…. Being weird?”

“Ok so typical teenage boy weird or… you thought he was Damian?” Steph prompted.

“I was over for dinner and homework and just hanging you know. And he kept like trying to touch me. But not. And then he’d draw attention to it. And follow me around doing it. I have no idea why? And when I finally snapped and yelled at him to stop, Lois came and asked what was going on and he lied to her! Made me look crazy!”

Tim’s eyes snapped to Damian in a glare. “Tsk. I do not see where your issue lies. It is your annotated position. Appreciate your birthrights." Tim's eyes narrowed at Damian's foot being inches from his bike’s kickstand he just fixed it.

“Don’t touch my bike demon brat!”

“But i am not touching your bike Timothy.” and with that Damian ran his hand an inch above the bike tracing it from the handlebars down to the back of the seat ignoring tim’s protests before hopping on his bike and taking off.

“Like that!” Kon yelled, pointing at the boy wonder as he left.

“He’s been doing that all day!” Tim yelled back. “That’s what he was doing at breakfast!” He jabbed a finger at batman. “And you didn’t believe me!”

“Child.” Cass spoke up, hip cocked and arms crossed.

“Yeah, that kind of seems like normal little kid behavior. Didn’t you watch the Disney channel as a kid?” Steph asked.

“No! And he is not a normal child!”

“Schrodinger is or was though.” signal said. Getting all heads to look at him. “Uh, maybe he had or has siblings?”

“He does.” Batman gave the information to his other children. “older and younger.”

“Ok, so maybe he was trying to relate to Damian and Jon through being younger siblings and stuff. They didn’t get that experience naturally and he shared some stuff that they are trying to emulate.”

“That kind of planned gaslighting behavior is not normal for siblings. That like a torture method the way it was weaponized.”

“You all gaslight each other all the time.” Batman countered.

“Yeah but not creating scenarios to do so. This was petty and designed to just get a rise out of…”

“Their older siblings.” Kon finished.

“Damian didn’t throw a knife at you this whole morning though. He chose to pick a fight with you this way instead of you know attacking you outright.” duke added.

“Are you saying Schrodinger taught Superboy to bully Kon?”

“That is a possibility.”

“Oracle.” Batman hit his coms. “Do you have any salvageable video from their patrol last night?”

“Yes, actually. It’s not great but Schrodinger seems to not be intentionally sabotaging it. The new shielding on the components red robin did seem to help marginally. Can I ask why? I’ve reviewed it already.”

“Because Superboy 2 and Damian have had some peculiar behaviors today.”

“Let me guess? I’m not touching you?” oracle snorted. At the indignant squawks from Tim and Steph's laughter. “Yeah, it’s a game Schrodinger taught them last night. Spent all patrol teaching it.”

“It can’t be a real thing…”

“It is, I had to look it up. I mean we all used to be only children. So it’s not surprising, but I've seen kids at the library do it too. They started the night doing it to hood.”

“I’m sorry what?” Steph asked, stopping laughing. “What? What did he do?”

“According to what superboy 2 voiced he screamed in frustration and i think went to hunt them down. But Schrodinger had them run away pretty quick. But my research shows this is normal sibling behavior. I’m sure they will get bored with it after a while.”

“He also called Lex my mom. Was that Schrodinger's idea too?”

“What?” several of the birds screeched.

*****************************

Kate was laughing at him. She knew the man was a little out of touch but this was just sad. “Yes B. It’s a normal thing for siblings to do. Your kids all do it in more extreme ways. Damian is now just doing it the normal way. That all kids with siblings do. Me and my sister would do this when moving. “

“You don’t think…”

“God, no Bruce, it’s fine. Really. I know you don’t see it often and well i think most of the hero community is made up of only children. But that’s like real normal sibling behavior. Be happy someone is teaching Damian how to be a kid. God knows he needs it. Kon will get over it. Or do the sibling thing and take revenge.” Kate rolled her eyes even though Bruce couldn’t see it over the phone. “Call Micheal if you want a second opinion. He has a sister.”

“I don’t think Booster is a good judge of normal behavior.”

“None of us are. None of us are normal. Or had normal happy childhoods. But the answer is not to let your paranoia ruin the chance for your kid to maybe start to. As best he can. This kid seems like a good influence on Damian. Maybe not Jon by comparison. But rebelling is normal teen behavior too. Maybe Jon is just going to hit that phase with his friends. Don’t overthink it. Or try not to. Let the kids be kids.”

Bruce’s side of the call remained silent for a moment before he responded. “Thank you Kate.”

“No problem Bruce.”

Chapter Text

“I’m here! I’m here! What the emergency? What's going…” John petered out bursting out of the portal into the siren’s living room, hands up ready to cast a spell as needed. Danny sat on the couch’s arm, hand still on the near summoning seal he had etched into their door frame to the stairs the couch was next to. Staring wide eyed at John and turning back to his hand, then back to John. “Kid that was not a toy. For emergencies only! What didn’t you understand…”

“This is an emergency.” Danny countered lifting his hand up and looking back on the seal again. “I just didn’t think that’d work like you said it would.” he stared wide eyed at John again.

“Of course it works! No point in doing it and telling you it would if it didn’t.'' John asked tiredly, dropping his hands and shoulders. He closed his eyes, readying himself to hold back his frustration and anger. He was going to explain popping off like that in the middle of the special league meeting about this brat, to deal with this non-emergency. “What’s the emergency?”

“You’re life.” Danny answered, climbing off the couch and heading to the kitchen table. A big box on the table. Danny flew up to be above it, John following after as the little ghost prince dug a metal monstrosity out of it and handed it to John with a grin. “Since you don’t seem to actually know about ghosts, but fancy yourself an occult detective.”

“Excuse you! You little tosser, I am a damn good magician. And I know…” John cut off as Danny pulled out a gaudy belt and clipped it around his waist, under his trench coat even with his powers, digging out the next one. “What are you doing? What is all this junk?” John saw how much stuff was piled into the box. All glowing ecto green.

“The belt is a specter deflector. It keeps ghosts from being able to over shadow you. It shouldn’t hurt them unless they try to though. And that.” Danny pointed to the bangle type device he had handed John before, “is a wrist ray. It can give a stinging attack to a ghost. It hurts, but it doesn’t damage their ectoplasma. I guess kind of like a taser but with laser beams it works in people with too much ecto-exposure to. So don’t shoot yourself.” Danny pulled out a pair of bulky metal gloves from John’s best recon. “These are ecto-gauntlets. They will let you actually touch and grab ghosts, including shades and blob ghosts. Ghost can’t phase through them.” he put them on John’s hands. And pulling out the next item. “A thermos. For all your ghost souping needs. You can use this to catch ghosts like a pokeball. Till you can send them back safely with a portal to the realms. Or if one is injured this will keep them stable for transport too.” The next piece came out in two pieces and Danny extended the staff and screwed it to the head. “I made this one able to break down for easy transport.'' He hit a switch on it, turning it on. “This is the ghost catcher. Cause see the mechanism looks like a native american Ojibwe tribe dream catcher. It doesn’t actually catch ghosts. But if a ghost has overshadowed someone you can like use it like a bug net. And it will forcefully and safely remove the ghost from the person they are overshadowing. But don’t use it on halfa’s cause it’s does some weird stuff to us that can turn out very bad to horrible really quickly.”

“Slow down kid back up. What is all of this stuff for?” John asked, looking around for signs of the kids' family being home. And catching none of it.

“For you.” Danny answered. “To help you with your job when you face ghosts who are maybe misbehaving or hurt. Jason and nightwing said you travel all over and help people with problem ghosts and demons and stuff. Since you didn’t know alot about ghosts I thought you could use some proper tools to protect you.”

John was left staring a little speechless at the tike. One hand little pisser was insulting his skills and know-how. He was the league's best bloody expert in the occult. One of the finest on the planet at that. Even if he didn’t know about something he could damn well find information on it with time, patience and skill in research with his collection and others. On the other, this muppet was so concerned for John’s well being he was outfitting him in a whole collection of magi-tech to keep him safe. Not only that, but all of it could be used to hurt the annoying little tike. And he was sneaking it to him! He obviously didn’t have any supervision at the moment, and he knows without a doubt no way hood would let him hand over weapons that could hurt him to anyone. Danny’s brows were pinched in worry, his floating lowering him to the table the longer John stared in silence at him. “Do you not like it? I know it’s kind of bulky and ugly…”

“Thank you. No, I appreciate all of it and the gesture greatly Danny. But we both know you do not have permission to just give weapons to me. We just met recently. I…”

“But you said you’d help us, the nice thing to do is at least help you in return too.” Danny countered. John reached over and grabbed the boy's shoulders looking at how he didn’t even flinch with the admittedly oversized ugly mitts. John took them off him and then followed up removing the gloves. Setting it on the table. He settled his bare hands back on the kids shoulders giving them a bit of squeeze.

“Kid,” John shook his head a bit exasperated. “You are a tad bit too trusting. Yes, I said I'm gonna help. And I meant it. Swears it on whatever scraps are left of my soul.” that got a chuckle and smile out of the lad. “But you can not just trust whatever bloke says they are gonna help you at their word. Or pass off your little inventions as bribes. That’s gonna backfire on ya. And i don’t need a bribe to look out for ya.”

“It’s not a bribe. It’s… I just wanted you to be safe.” Danny’s voice tapered off as he looked away from John pulling another item from the box fiddling with it. “Sometimes ghosts hurt people on accident. Cause they are hurt, or scared, or frustrated, or just don’t remember what it was like to be alive, and how delicate the living can be.” Danny didn’t look up from his lap and the device with a little satellite looking dish on it. “Is it too much? I can probably pair it down to the essentials…”

And now John was feeling like a bit of a dick. “Hey, it’s good kid.” John chuckled, sliding the brat across the table to give him a side hug. “You are just a little too good. Too kind for an old jaded bastard like me. Not sure I should be walking around anywhere looking like a ghostbuster from them cheesy American films.” he enjoyed the kids' less nervous chuckle. “Draws too much attention. Not to mention when the rest of your family realizes you gave me a bunch of your tech supplies.”

“They wouldn’t. I built these new.” Danny answered. Putting the gloves into the box and starting to take apart the ghost catcher for transport.

“We’ve known each other for just a few weeks, kid.” John took a look at all the items again. The bugger just looked at him and nodded.

“Yeah, I also didn’t have a lot of supplies to work with, cause I've been saving up for my generator test run. I did take some of those parts though. I would have made you more stuff, but this one kid Colin comes every weekend to bring me some stuff. And i wanted to make him a tea kettle that he could use anywhere anytime without power. And he brought in new phone! And me and tuck got distracted taking it apart and modifying it. So I ran out of time. But i finished the big stuff oh and a phone too!” Danny dug to the bottom of the box and lifted up the heavily modified flip phone. “You’re kind of old so Jason said you’d probably like this type best. It works when in the infinite realms too. As long as a portal is open nearby you can call in or out. Text are more reliable incase whatever natural portal you are using closes. The sides pop out like this and you have a full keyboard.”

“It’s been 22 days.” John was going to choose to ignore the old comment.

“I know. Sorry, if i had more ecto and a compressor, i could’ve made you a condenser so you could make ecto for deadman if he gets hurt. Since he’s your friend or co-worker or whatever.”

“What? No, no, this is all lovely. Wonderful. I’m not saying it’s not enough, I'm well…” John scratched aggressively at his head. “In 22 days i’d maybe understand building say one” he held up his pointer finger for the kid. “New thing. From scratch or whatever. With school going on no less. Not…” John looked back at the box. “Kid you know a normal person, loose term here, would take all that time if not more to make one of those things. Probably. Again using normal loosely.”

“Oh…” Danny handed him the phone. “Well that was started already. So I just finished it. It just needed the keyboard mod. I finished it at school during lunch.” Danny wrinkled his nose a bit thinking hard. “Are you sure? Cause i really feel like i didn’t get as much done as i should have. It’s not like anything was a completely new design. Except the tea kettle. Oh and I did build 5 new ecto servers.”

“You are building magi-tech at school?” John asked, eyes closed letting his breath out his nose.

“It’s ecto-tech. It’s not magic.” John clenched his fist using it to rub his forehead. “And yeah. Not like I got anything else to do. And if I'm in the cafeteria too long some of the other kids try to bully me. So I just hurry and eat and sneak down to the shop class. Mr. Munchmore isn’t bothered by it even if I'm not in his class.”

“One, we need to work on your, I don't know confidence, or ability to assess something. Haven’t quite got my finger on the word, but something. But I might understand more so now why you take me as a braggart.”

“Cause you are.”

“No, you just don’t have a good baseline of what being good in a skill is.” John sighed but let the kid finish packing up. “For example, how would you rate your skills here on building your gadgets. Engineering.”

“Probably a little above average. But only cause i grew up with it. And repairing or modifying my parent’s work. I didn’t come up with any of the originals.”

“They build an energizer tea kettle?”

“No, we just used the microwave.”

“Then I think you are making new designs.”

“No, I just took the battery they designed and built it into the appliance. It wasn’t new.”

“Look, not gonna argue, I actually need to get back to the very important business i was dealing with before you improperly summoned me. This is not an emergency by the way. Thoughtful, but not an emergency.” he repeated for good measure. This brat probably needed something repeated a dozen times for it to sink in past whatever else was swirling in that noggin.

“Fighting demons? That’s why mom and Jason said you usually do.”

“Yeah, fighting a whole room of them. Idiotic bunch too.” John grinned at the kid, who smiled back and shoved the box at him.

“Think you might test some of these out on them and tell me if they do anything? For science?”

“You know what. Not a bad idea. And sure kid. Even got a friend who is bound to a demon that I'm on pretty good terms with. So I can ask permission and everything keep it on the up and up. He’s host probably like me to shoot him anyway.”

“Ooooohhhh, I was thinking like the specter reflector and the ghost shield…”

“Yeah. of course. I wouldn’t just start with the ray gun. Not i.” John was happy he got a snort. John checked the watch on his wrist to see how much of an arse chewing bats was gonna give him when he made a pit stop on top of it. “Wait, shouldn't you be in school? It’s tuesday ain’t it?”

“Oh I am. This is a duplicate. Part of why I didn't know if that seal would work. I didn’t know my human duplicates had blood. I just thought it was ecto in my normal colors. Farthest I've been from one of my duplicates too. So win!”

“You can make copies of yourself?”

“Just one at a time. Real me has my core. And Jason hasn’t called or came here looking for me. So I think without a core it doesn’t set off ghost senses.”

“Right… but your family here, they know you can do this, yes?”

“Yeah. do it all the time.”

“Right. Not my business then. Be good. Don’t get caught. And thank you.”

“You’re welcome. Bye uncle connie.” Danny said with a wave as John went through a portal to the house of mystery. Like hell he was taking any of this shite to the watch tower. They could wait a few more minutes.

******************************

“Are you alright? Were you injured?” wonderwoman asked when John stepped back into the meeting room after Batman let him in. the door locked with a code set by him for privacy. One that bypassed the watchtower's servers and sent the room data to the batcave. She gave him an assessing look over.

“Everything is fine. Kid wanted to test the legitimacy of my work. And we a had a good talk about what doesn’t count as an emergency to summon me.”

“So it was schrodinger?” Batman asked.

“Yeah, not surprising, only a few people have that seal. But alls good. Won’t happen again, lad understands it’s not a toy.”

“Now.” superman added unneededly.

“What? You never prank 911 when you were a knee high?”

“No.”

“Of course not, that’s why you’re the boyscout! Let the brat have some fun. He is willing to play with it, he’s gonna be willing to use it. Which is to say not only a good thing, but a good step in winning over some trust here.”

“You are more relaxed upon your return John Constantine than when you departed.” J'onn J'onzz

“Yeah, kid was being a kid. It’s good. You all keep grilling me on this same nonsense though I'm getting out a cigarette if we ain’t gonna be productive.”

“I agree with the magician. Let us continue our discussion on this realms governmental workings. Zatanna continued after you left but didn’t get past the members of the possible current court and their domains of power or control it was unclear.'' Aquaman offered.

“Thanks for that love. Saves some time. It’s a bit of both you see. Most of them have areas they control and govern inside the realm and they relate to their powers and what they control in the realm. And a bit of what doorways to other worlds might be nearby or in their governing power.” John plowed up despite hating this part. He liked it better we he could just say don’t fucking mess with any of this shite. “Bit of feudalism and wild west, frontier all mixed together on that side.”

************************

[John Constantine is not lying, however I will not say he isn’t hiding something. I am able to get a hold of him holding something back. But not malicious. Protective. Also he was feeling pleased or pleasant upon his return. And a bit humbled. All in all I would say his summons was not much off from as he presented batman.]

[It’s hard to picture the man humbled by anything.] Batman returned mentally to J'onn.

[Perhaps he has a soft spot for the young king. And to be one of the first members of the league to earn his trust, when he isn’t always held in much esteem among all the heroes here even, I could see how he’d find it to be.]

[Could also mean he is compromised. We still don’t have much evidence or data to back up their claims.]

[With time perhaps they will share theirs. And John will have a good chance to be a bridge.]

[What about the others?]

[Wonderwoman is frustrated and angry. Not surprising. Word a child and unknown people are being harmed and living in fear. It is very much in her nature to feel for those abused by the world.]

[Superman is defensive, he is projecting his need to protect those he cares for. He is also feeling concerned and worried quite loudly.]

[His youngest has just started having encounters with schrodinger along side my youngest.] Batman gave him some additional context

[That could be cause for such strong feelings . Arthur is very concerned. And unsurprised. Idiotic surface fools are being loudly projected often. Though we might be concerned about his mullings of maybe we should allow them to raze, the United States government might humble them a bit and get them to rethink their ways.]

[As Long as he’s only thinking it, and doesn’t actively seek them out to encourage it we should be fine. What about you j’onn?]

[I am disheartened. Greatly. I had hoped after my own experience and the work of the league and many lawmakers on earth in many countries we would not face something like this again in my lifetime.]

[Martians have very long life spans.]

[We do, and yet I feel as though I was just set free and in doing so it sets them on another more vulnerable target.]

[You are not at fault j’onn.] Batman offered his coworker support

[Directly no. but i do feel responsible. As all of us do to some degree in this room. We had a report of an instance of the freeing of one of them by the junior team, yet we didn’t dig deeper into it till a seemingly worse case was brought to our attention. From our lack of acting and investigation we have allowed this to come this far into fruition. And just hope we can save others from the same fate I have once suffered.]

Chapter Text

The boys got into a nice flow for their patrols, they’d meet up at the edge of crime alley in different areas, so Jason couldn’t get revenge for their starter. Danny once even brought a can of red spray paint and they tagged the edge of his haunt with the robin symbol and superman one with a little 2 at the top left. And Danny made a little stylized cat face that was sideways compared to the other two’s. It was in reality a capital letter d with ears on the flat side and a p for the tongue and mouth of the kitty face. What robin didn’t know and superboy didn’t understand exactly what Danny did, was he infused the paint with ectoplasma so it would not wash out and be a permanent mark on his haunt he can feel. He also convinced Robin to do a rendition of Jason's helmet with cat ears. Because robin insulted his attempt.

“What are you attempting to depict?” robin asked after taking in the blob of color

“A kitty eared red Hood helmet.”

“I would call this an abject failure, but that might be too kind.”

“That’s not nice to say robin.” Jon scolded his friend.

“Well if you think you can do it better be my guest.” Danny pouted, handing the can back. “And make it quick. He had something to do he couldn’t skip but he’s gonna come after us as soon as he’s done if we are still here.”

“I most certainly can.” robin snatched the can from the catboy and chose a new area along the border schrodinger indicated to do as asked

“Isn’t what we are doing what gangs do?” Superboy asked. “Isn’t it bad?”

“Yeah, and red Hood has a gang. So we are interacting with him as he expresses his haunt." Danny said matter of factly. “Makes it better. Plus Batman is totally running a gang.”

“We’ve been over this. The batclan nor the justice league are a gang.”

“Criminal organization then. The justice league just has more legitimization like mercenaries.”

“The justice league is not a mercenary group, nor is my family a criminal organization.” Robin argued.

“It’s the mob. You are in a mob Robin.” Danny said counting out points on his fingers. And adding more when he ran out on one hand. Making Jon cringe. “It’s called the bat family. You all guard your territory from crimes you don’t approve of, a lot of what the batfam does are considered crimes. You have an illegal yet working relationship with the local police to overlook your criminal activity or support it, while using it against your enemies, or rival criminal organizations, Hood says the only way out of the family business is death. And even then he gets dragged into it all the time even if he cut out his own territory you guys allow him to run it like he wants, so you even make deals with other criminal organizations. The only thing you are missing is profiting off it. Which i don’t know you might?”

“The good citizens of Gotham like us and appreciate our work. And our only gains are their safety.”

“Yeah, a lot of people in Chicago thought the same about Capone. Didn’t change the fact he was a mobster.” he stared down robin. “Your dad is a mob boss who runs an international mercenary group of metas. Who he doesn’t allow on his turf.”

“Your mind is a failure of point connection.”

“But that’s all true robin.”

“It does not make us a mob!”

“Is my dad really a mercenary?”

“No!” “yes. I’m sorry for your loss, superboy.”

“Schrodinger! Cease this slander! You are worse than red robin’s ex.”

“I just think you are arguing semantics.” Robin threw a batarang at Schrodinger in frustration, regretting it immediately when the boy doesn’t dodge. It lodged in his shoulder. Robin stared a bit panicked as a bit of blood leaked out. “Sweet! Mine now.” Danny replied, shoving the batarang into his body. “You stick it in me it’s mine.” Jon stared open mouthed and shocked.

Robin softly voiced a question to Schrodinger. “Your injury…”

“It’s fine healed up already see.” Danny said, stretching open the hole in his costume. “But you aren’t getting that back.”

“If you do not wish to continue…”

Danny cut him off with a snort. “Dude it’s fine. My friends and family have done way worse. Like on the regular. It’s not a big deal. You didn’t do it maliciously to hurt me.”

“Your family and friends stab you?”

“Some, most shoot me.”

“It was still inappropriate and wrong. You don’t have the training to dodge like my siblings. Especially with no warning.” Damian said, head lowered a bit in shame.

Danny waved him off. “It’s not a big deal. Seriously. That’s like normal ghost play, it doesn’t bother me.”

“You are not angered by my actions?”

“No. It's fine really, you can do it whenever you feel like.”

“You are ok with Robin stabbing you?” Jon seemed shocked.

“It's ghost play. It kinda makes me feel good actually, that you'd do that.” Danny played with the hole in his costume a bit. “Waylon is always scared when playing with me. Like he thinks he'll hurt me. And Jason won't use weapons when we play. So like it's hard to explain. It feels like you respect me more or something.”

“I still wish to apologize, I should not have done it to you without a warning at least, or in frustration. However, if at a later time you still wish to spare in some way we can arrange such.”

“Sweet!” Danny said before pointing over his shoulder, “but we should go now. Hood is on his way here.” The three boys took off deeper into Gotham . “and your dad is still a mob boss.”

“He is not!”

****************************************

“So what did you do yesterday?” Lois asked Jon at breakfast. Her son was yawning but he hadn’t had any complaints from school so she’s assuming he’s doing ok.

“We tagged Red Hood’s territory. Stopped a bus with bad brakes. Stopped some drug dealers. Caught an officer taking a bribe, which robin collected evidence for the police for and then Schrodinger scared him so bad he peed himself.”

“So you are having fun with your new friend. That’s good.”

“Yeah,” Jon replied, enjoying his cereal.

“Jon, what do you mean by tagging?” Clark asked with a worried wrinkle of his brow.

“With spray paint. We marked the edge of his turf with our logos and his, to tease him.”

“That’s Bruce's crime boss kid right?” Lois asked to clarify

“Yeah! Schrodinger's uncle. He says it’s good for him to get treated like a real street gang. So we taunted him with tagging his territory" Jon explained.

“Jon you know that’s a crime right?” Clark asked, a bit worried.

“Yeah, but Schrodinger said it was ok because it was red Hood’s turf. Robin was fine with it too.”

“Jon just because your friends are ok committing crimes, doesn’t mean you should too. That’s… not appropriate behavior.” Clark reprimanded.

“But all the heroes commit crimes all the time.”

“What?” Clark asked confused, “no we don’t.”

“Yeah you do,” Jon put down his spoon and counted out the points for his parents. “Batman regularly breaks rules about vigilantism, weapons laws, speeding, flying a plane below minimum airspace without proper permissions.” As her son went on listing Lois hid her barely contained laughter behind her coffee mug. “And you break airspace rules all the time, and international travel laws, and even some countries' sovereignty laws, plus laws against vigilantism. The justice league does a bunch of those things too.”

“But we do those things to protect people, Jon. Not to just vandalize things.” Clark argued his point.

“But it’s still breaking the law. We just get a pass cause people agree with it when we do it.”

“Who told you that?”

“Schrodinger.”

“Maybe we need to talk to Batman about this being a bad idea. you and robin hanging out with him. I think this boy is being a bit of a bad influence on you.”

“Schrodinger said you’d say that.” Jon pouted.

“What else did Schrodinger tell you?” Clark asked.

“That robin’s family was a mob, and that the justice league is an international mercenary group.”

“What?!”

Lois couldn’t hold it in anymore and started laughing. Having to set down her cup and to keep from spilling it too much.

“Honey, that's not funny! Nor is it true!” he said the last one pointing a finger at his son. “None of that is true.” he turned back to his still laughing wife. “Honey! Back me up here. Please.”

“Wait, wait.” Lois said between giggles, head hung a bit. “Did he give you bullet points for that?”

“Yeah. they made sense too. Even though robin told him he was wrong.”

“You think you remember some of them to write them down for me?”

“Yeah, if not schrodinger can when I see him again if I'm allowed.”

“You are allowed to still.”

“Lois!”

“But I would like a bullet point list please. For research purposes. It’ll help your father.”

“Ok mom.” Jon said finishing his breakfast. And floating over to give both his parents a kiss goodbye and grabbing his backpack he headed back to gotham for school.

“Why would you encourage that honey?” Clark asked with a pout.

“Because Clark, you are focusing on Schrodinger being a “bad influence”” she made sure to project those finger quotes. “On our son, and not that, he is an important diplomatic player. And those lists are going to help the league pinpoint what about their public works makes him think the league would refuse to help him. You might not be sharing all the details with me, but what Jon just said. Seems to imply he thinks the league will sell him to the highest bidder. And you’re just mad the kid had some good points. Better find some counter ones Jon can use to debate back.”

“This is ridiculous, we aren’t mercenaries for hire, we are agents for justice and peace.”

“Whose agents Clark?” Lois prompted. “You need to work hard on finding a phrase for it that can’t be twisted or misconstrued. You got till their next playdate.” she patted her husband’s leg before getting up to clear the dishes from the table.

***************************************************

All heads turned at the sounds of a motorcycle entering the cave they hadn’t heard in a while.

“No way?”

“I hope it’s not going to be an emergency night. If he’s here.”

“Hey little wing, what brings you to the cave this evening?” Nightwing asked, he was in the city for the night to cover for batman. And had plans to check on the sirens and Jason that night.

Jason ignored him pointing a finger at robin as he stormed deeper into the cave. “Ok whatever game you were playing. Stop. he about gave Leslie a heart attack at his check up." Jason pulled a bag from his coat and held it out to robin to take. “Count them. Make sure i got them all.”

Damian huffed but snatched the bag and took it to a table and dumped out the continents to go over. Tim inching closer to look. “Those robins batarangs… those are the ones missing from your patrol all week aren’t they?”

“How do the batarangs relate to scaring Leslie?” Steph asked, confused.

“Robin, please tell me you didn’t throw them at Schrodinger.” dick asked nicely. Hoping, small as the little flame was. To be dashed by a bucket of ice water.

“I had permission. We were using it as training. Did he not remove them? He declared anything that becomes lodged in him is his.” Robin looked at Hood with a scowl. “Per the terms these belong to him.”

“He what?” Duke, Steph, and Cass all three asked together.

“Since i watched him get one lodged in his head fucking around with it, no he doesn’t, and i better not find another one inside him. Nor Leslie. She nearly tripped with how much shit fell out of him. And did he get the gun with you? Cause he doesn’t remember where he absorbed the gun.”

“Is he ok?” Duke asked

“Fell out of him?” Steph asked.

Jason ignored the others staring down robin, “are they all here?”

“Yes, and i didn’t not see him stash any guns like a chipmunk does it’s winter storage. If he doesn’t remember, it was probably some time ago.” Robin crossed his arms over his chest matching Hood’s glare.

“No more or else demon brat.”

“I heard you Hood.”

“Good. he’s grounded to the alley tonight. So go patrol on your own.” and with that Hood left on his bike just as he came. Leaving a pouting robin behind.

“Did he just verify that the batarangs can hurt Schrodinger?” Tim asked.

“Tsk, no. He will bleed but it stops quickly as he heals shortly after he removes or absorbs them.”

“Absorb them?” Steph asked. “Explain what the hell that means.”

“He uses his intangibility powers to store items of use to him for easy access inside his body.”

“Like the thing in the safe house?” Duke asked to clarify. “He does that with other things?”

“Yes, he keeps many things there. Including his phone, food, and water.”

“Target?” Cass asked Damian. Though she hopped not.

“Not particularly. It was to teach him dodging, but he also wanted to try to catch them with his powers. We had a few training exercises we were doing.”

Tim picked up a few pieces of broken batarang holding them up. “Did he bite it?”

“He did try catching some with his teeth for effect.” Damian replied. “Said it was like catching popcorn.”

“I want this kid. How do I get Selina to adopt me? " Steph asked.

“That wasn’t all of them was it?” Tim asked, looking at the pile again.

Chapter Text

“Did you see the Damian’s sketch book?” Steph asked. “For a little hard ass he can be so cute and sweet. I’d pinch his cheeks if I wouldn't get stabbed.”

Tim snorted. “Yeah, he was working on a head shot when I went through the parlor earlier. He’s in first stage denial still though.”

“In denial about what?” Nightwing asked.

“He’s still adamant that Schrodinger is his case. Not his friend, even though he’s in solid friend territory like Jon, in that defensive stage." Tim answered.

“Oh we are past the friend zone already. You didn’t see the picture I did then.” Steph said. “The picture was definitely hitting crush notes.”

“Nightwing!” Oracle's voice chimed into their coms suddenly.

“Oracle report.” Bruce was gruff in his response.

“He fell down a level of a fire escape.”

“I’m fine. Mostly my pride. And my back.” Nightwing's tight voice came in.

“Can’t handle the baby bird growing up and getting a crush Nightwing?” Steph teased.

“If he’s copying B’s taste in cat themed targets i think we should all be concerned.” Tim added, his face scrunched at the pained noise coming from Nightwing. “Are you sure you didn’t hurt yourself? You are getting old there, Nightwing.”

“Excuse you, I am not old!” Nightwing defended. “But please tell me you are just teasing him.”

“I don’t know what to tell ya. If there wasn’t a mask on the kid, that picture would have anime character level eyelashes and glowy eyes. He was fussing over freckle placement.” Steph added.

“He’s said he was working on sketches for the computer since we only have one photo of him.”

“Freckles! RR, boy was fussing over freckles." Steph shouted. “He was only missing a heart frame.” Nightwing made a dying whale noise.

“Maybe we should discourage that. Strongly.” oracle added.

“Yes. very.” Nightwing chimed in.

“I thought you liked Schrodinger?” Tim pointed out.

“I do! But our baby bat doesn’t need to perfectly copy our big bat." Nightwing argued. “Crossing wires between casework and romantic interests should not be encouraged, think of all the issues.”

Batman huffed into the com at his children’s chatting.

“Why don’t we just encourage him to start referring to Schrodinger as a friend, and let him build to the full realization on his own.” Steph added. “You know like normal people, let kids work through their relationships without interfering.”

“Do we even know if Schrodinger sees Robin as anything besides a focus of entertainment?” red robin argued.

“He thinks of Robin as a friend.” Nightwing defended.

“Only as a friend? Come on, you have to wingman for your little brother. Why do you want to shoot down his chances? Let the kid live a little.'' Steph went on. She ignored the weird noise coming from oracle.

“Absolutely not! nobody wingman that. Or encourage that! Friends only!” Nightwing pushed. “What if b and Catwoman get back together? What then?”

Oracle could’t contain the snort that left her. “I’m sorry, I'm sorry but looking at the state of things, I don’t think that’s happening.”

“They got back together after she got out of jail!” Dick argued with her.

“How about everyone stop speculating about anyone’s romantic interests and focus on their patrols.” Bruce gruffed over the coms effectively shutting down the conversation.

**********************************************

Dick entered his apartment in bludhaven after making a pit stop at a safe house. He startled when the light turned on to find Cass at his breakfast nook, with Damian's sketchbook on the table. She had two cups of steaming tea too.

“Hey Cass.” he said with a strained smile.

“Secrete.” Cass said to him as he made his way to her taking a seat and his cup.

“This family is full of secrets.” Dick teased, and got an unimpressed look.

Cass flipped open Damian's sketchbook to a picture of Danny and Jon sitting on a building corner with the moon behind them. Making Dick cringe a bit. “Brother.” Cass pointed to Danny.

“He’s not…” she glared at him, “ok yes he’s our brother. More importantly he is Damian’s biological half brother. We can not let Damian get a crush on him.”

“Name?” Cass asked.

“Danny.” Dick said. And matched his sister's happy smile.

“Babs know?”

“Yeah. She does. Me, her Jason and you now. And we need to keep it that way.” Dick pleaded. He got a nod of affirmation and then started flipping through Damian’s sketchbook with Dick. Going over the pictures. Not just of Schrodinger, but Jon, animals. Gargoyles. They even found some pages with notes on gargoyle suggestions for Schrodinger to paint. They even found the pictures Steph and Tim had seen. The one Tim had caught sight of, was done in the style of a basic head shot, nice and clear for their system files. Colors started a little snaggletooth. That had Dick smiling. And then the one Steph had seen. Covered in a lot of eraser marks scuffing the paper. Giving it a tint. It was more candid than the other head shot. Danny smiling, doing a little victory hand pose, his nose wrinkled and sticking his tongue out. Yeah Dick could see how Steph came to the idea that it was a romantic take. But he had to take in Damian’s need for perfection. The very expressive face Danny had, and the way he could exaggerate his features with his powers he could see throwing Damian off when trying to draw him after the fact. Even with his memory and skill. So Dick really wanted to lump it into that but he wasn’t going to take the risk. But he needed to tread lightly. But right now that’s not what he wanted to focus on. He had his sister here who hadn’t even gotten to meet her baby brother.

“Damian did a good job with these. But you want to see some photos of Danny?” he asked his sister.

“Yes! Cass said with much excitement in her voice. And Dick pulled out his phone to show off their littlest brother.

*****************************************

Jason stared at his phone messages from Dick for a long while before closing it after forwarding it to the sirens “I’m not touching that.”

Chapter Text

“Favorite color?” Danny asked as they trio moved through the city. “Mine’s midnight blue.”

“I like blue.” Jon answered.

“Dark red.” Robin answered.

“Favorite food.” Superboy countered keeping up easily with the two boys not flying. “I like Chili dogs.”

“Dolmas.” Robin added his answer.

“The candy my ghost dad gives me after check ups.” Danny said, drooling a bit. “I miss it the most too.”

“Preferred method of attack?” Robin posed his question pausing at the edge of their current rooftop to observe the alley nearby he knew was popular for meet ups due to darkened shadows and multi opening to escape should things go bad. Jon and Danny shared a look. “My first choice is my katana.”

“Uh punching?” Superboy answered unsure if that was the correct way to answer.

“Insults.” Danny answered with a smirk. “Hobby! Mines building stuff since I moved to gotham.”

“What was it before?” Jon asked.

“Stargazing. But can’t really do that in gotham.” he shrugged. “You guys have to answer.”

“Playing video games.”

“Oooooh what platform?” Schrodinger asked excitedly.

“Xbox.” he answered.

“Boooooo, pc is the way to go.” Schrodinger laughed but looked at Robin for his answer.

“I enjoy training my pets.” Robin answered, jumping down into the alley. Picking up an empty vial to take back to the cave for testing.

“Train them to what?” Danny asked. “Like those weird dog shows?”

“No. just training them to follow my simple commands and aid me in combat.”

“Like a police canine?” Danny asked.

Robin is silent while looking around the area more. “Of course…”

“Batdog….danuh nuna na na na batdog!”

“Cease that.” Damian said harshly.

Jon and Danny giggled but followed Robin as he grappled back to the roof line and continued their patrol.

“I’m surprised you didn’t pick art Robin. You like drawing and painting.”

“I do. But I decided on divulging my love of my pets instead. Schrodinger has others as well. We may infer Schrodinger enjoys pc video games.”

“I do, but like my stargazing hobby. I haven’t been able to do it since coming to gotham.”

“Why?” asked Jon with a pout.

“It’s not safe for me and my friends to play doom together. So I didn't see a point. My time is better spent with my projects.”

“What’s your favorite season?” Jon continued their 20 questions. “Mines summer.”

“Fall, the colors are quite nice.” Robin answered

“Winter. Reminds me of the far frozen.” Danny says with a soft smile.

“What is the far frozen?” Robin asks.

“It’s an area of the ghost zone, that’s where the yeti tribe lives. Frostbite is the leader.”

“What makes you base your season choice around this area?” Robin continued his interrogation. He found himself to enjoy the game of 20 questions every time someone suggested it. Very easy to interrogate targets if he was willing to give out useless trivia about himself.

“Frostbite is my ghost dad. And my doctor. He also helped me when I first got one of my powers that almost made me fully dead.”

“Your powers almost killed you?” Jon asked, shocked.

Schrodinger shrugged. “It happens right?”

Robin narrowed his eyes at the catboy, “no, i don’t believe it does. I do not know of any meta’s who’s powers can end their life at the moment.”

“Well it’s not a problem now. As long as I use the power regularly.” Danny answered.

“You didn’t say what it was though?” Jon asked.

“I didn’t.” Danny gave him a cheshire grin before disappearing from view all together.

Superboy looked to Robin with a pout. “I didn’t mean to upset him.”

“You didn’t upset me.” Danny said, popping back into view next to superboy. “But it’s not your turn.”

Robin didn’t think Schrodinger would appreciate him asking it. Or what a comparable would be for him and Jon to offer.

“What is your preferred musical stylings?” Robin went for a lighter topic. “I prefer classical styles.”

“Like mozart or beethoven?” the cat boy asked surprised. “That’s cool. I’d have pegged you as a heavy metal guy.”

“Waaaaa?” Jon asked, shocked by Danny’s take. “What about Robin makes you think he likes heavy metal?”

“He’s intense. Heavy metal is intense music.”

“I reiterate that you do not have deductive skills of remark.”

“Whatever. Mine’s punk music. But I like alot of music." Schrodinger answered.

“I like rock’n’roll. Like my grandpa.” Jon gave his answer.

“Name a song.” Danny put his hand on his hip waiting on the youngest blue boy to answer.

“Wayward son.”

“Oldman rock got it.” Danny laughed.

“Robin! RR needs back up in the heights!” oracle came in over his coms with mild crackling.

“We are headed to his location” Robin pulled his wrist computer.

“Where’s the heights?” Danny asked.

“Near Gotham academy.” Jon answered, grabbing Robin’s cape pulling him up to his back.

“Ok that’s this island.” Schrodinger said his body language reading jittery. “Which way?” he asked, switching invisible except his eyes again.

“Follow me. I can hear where he’s at.” Jon said expecting Danny to follow with his flying and he did but eyes darted between superboy and Robin but he kept pace and flew invisible towards a warehouse.

“Hand!” Danny called out superboy stuck out his arm and he grabbed it turning their trio invisible and intangible before forcing them down through the roof of the building. Jon didn't get a chance to comment on how Danny had forced him down before they were in the middle of a shoot out. Robin wasted no time dropping into the fight. And Jon followed his lead like they had practiced. He didn't see Schrodinger or where he went off too. At Least not till a wall of ice sprung up around some crates and heard a shout in surprise.

“You’re shot!” Schrodinger exclaimed to Red Robin.

“Yes, that's why I needed back up.” Red Robin said. He tried to get a view over the crates to give some cover to his back up only for a wall of ice to spring up.

“Superboy and Robin can handle it. You need to stop moving.”

“Schrodinger I'm…”

“Sit down and stop moving so I can fix you!” Schrodinger shouted at him, eyes glowing and teeth sharp. His coms crackling and the warehouse lights flickering. And the temperature sensors on his suit were giving an alert warning.

“Schrodinger take out the lights!” Robin called out, obviously noticing the commotion. All the lights exploded into sparks. But the ice and Schrodinger's eyes gave off a green glow illuminating the two of them.

Red Robin decided to follow the boys instructions before their gear got fried again. “It's a bullet, bullet right?” Schrodinger asked once red Robin sat with his back to the crate.

“Two but yeah.” Tim answered, bending forward so he could see the one in the back of his shoulder.

“OK, I'm going to stop the bleeding but it's going to be uncomfortable and cold.” Danny put a hand over the wound on the shoulder and applied his ghost ice to it and followed suit with the one on his leg. “OK, ok. Leg has 2 holes. Which is good. Right?” He asked Tim to verify.

“Better than one yep.”

Schrodinger's green eyes focused in on his shoulder before he spoke, “that's one. That means it's inside still and needs to come out.”

“Schrodinger, it's fine. It can wa…” Tim didn’t get to finish before Danny phased his hand into Red Robin's shoulder. Before bringing his hand back out with the bullet. Tim's injured muscle seized at the cold intrusion causing him to groan. But wasn't nearly as bad as fishing one out with forceps.

Danny put the surprising clean bullet in Tim's hand. “That's yours.”

“Sure thanks.”

“You need stitches.” Danny shoved his hands into his own chest and came out with a first aid kit. Tim's eyes were wide under his mask, maybe not just gritting his teeth in pain. “I think I have normal stitches for living people.” He opened his medical kit that had some worrisome glowing green tint to them.

“Hey, hey, you got me stabilized, it's good. Once I get back to the cave we have someone who can finish cleaning me up.” Tim tried to he wasn't sure console him or talk him down but Schrodinger seemed to be calming down anyway now that he wasn't actively bleeding.

“my ice won't melt unless I make it or you have an ectoblaster. And that would do more damage.” Danny pulled out a pack of normal stitches thread with a grin. “I promise I'm really good at stitches. It's way easier to do them on someone else.” Next he pulled out a piece of thick rolled and stitched leather with a dowel rod in the middle.

That raised so many concerns and questions in Tim's head he didn't know how to address it. Danny was already threading up the needle. “I can start with the one you can see first.” He pulled out a package with a little rubber tube in it and set it next to him. He melted off some of the fabric around the area with an ectoblast from his finger tip. Tim grabbed the bit offered to him with a head shake. But he kind of wanted to see what he could do. Danny retreated the ice on one side of the wound, pulling the skin close with the ice like a butterfly stitches while he worked leaving a small opening. And moving to the other side and copying it. And Tim was shocked at what little pain there was cause it was numb from the ice. He didn't even need the bit. And how neat and tight the stitches were. He barely felt the needle when it went in too. Once both sides were stitched Danny phased the drain tube in the sealed wrapper into his wound and brought his hand out with the wrapper. Before looking to Tim for approval who just gaped at him. “I can get the blood off you too.” And Danny turned Tim intangible to let the blood drop off him.

“You were not joking about being good at stitches.”

“Practice makes perfect. And Red Huntress would kill me again if I did a bad enough job to give her an ugly scar.” Schrodinger answered. “Ready for the shoulder or do you need a minute?”

“Nope go for it.” Red Robin went to move to make it easier to get to. Schrodinger got to work on it. Closing it. Tim took note the lack of gunfire Damian and Jon seemed to have handled it. He wasn't going to hear the end of it from the brat.

“I'm not sure if this one should have a drain. Not going to lie, I'm not used to like bullet wounds. Blades and burns were our common injuries. Maybe a bite or claws but that's not much different than a blade besides the roughness of the cut.” Schrodinger sounded very contrite.

“Go without. I can have one added later if it needs it. And you are doing great. Normally we stop the bleeding then get back to get back to the cave and agent A patches us up.” Tim felt Schrodinger freeze. Followed by quick breathes mumbled nos. “Schrodinger?” Tim turned to get a look at the shaking kitty boy frozen in place.

“Please don't, no, no, please.” he heard him plead, tears starting to roll down his cheeks.

“Shit.” Tim exclaimed as the warning on his suit temperature sensors went off again. “Robin! Superboy! I need one of you now!”

“Red Robin report!” Batman called out. Oh goodie that was going to help Schrodinger but that meant there was backup to cover the goons.

“Schrodinger is having a ptsd attack.”

“What did you do!?” Robin angrily asked.

“No idea!” Tim scowled till he heard a shout of Schrodinger's name from his coms. He took the risk and took the ears off Schrodinger's head putting it on. To hear Jason calling Schrodinger's name.

“Damn it kid! Answer me!”

“Hood, it's RR, kitten is out of it.”

“Why is he panicking? And it's bad.”

“He's having a ptsd attack. I don’t know what triggered it, he was stitching me up, I told him he was doing a good job and agent A would handle anything he missed and shut down. He's pleading with someone.” Robin and Superboy appeared above the wall of ice to come and land besides the two.

“Fuck. You need to snap him out of it quick. Before he screams.” Hood spoke urgently. “He screams he's leveling a city block.”

“What?” Tim and Jon said with a bit of shock. Robin heard it but stayed focused on speaking to Schrodinger. A light shined on the ice wall illuminating them more.

“Like Canary. He has a wail. But even if he is coherent once he does it he can’t stop till he’s passed out. If he’s stuck in the memory I think he says the name jazz you need to get him out of the city or above it. His is stronger than hers.”

“Kon!” Tim shouted for the older Superboy. That was not good.

“I’m on my way so are the sirens. Put the com close to him. Selina try and snap him out of it. I’m trying to push the empath part. Grundy is too.”

“Red,” Kon said, flying into the warehouse.

“We need to get Schrodinger above the city.”

“No! We need to snap him out of it!” Robin said angrily, snatching up Danny’s cat ears and putting them back on the cat boy who was crying and pleading curled in on himself. Jon could hear Selina Harley and Ivy talking to him softly and even singing.

“Hey RR clue us in!” Steph could be heard on the other side of the wall, but at least Batman wasn’t bitching about more supers in his city.

“Hood says if we don’t snap Schrodinger out of his ptsd attack before he screams he’s going to level a city block with something like canary cry. And the kid can’t control it. Last warning is the name Jazz. Kon, he says it, do what you have to do, get him as high as you can.” Kon gave him a nod. Despite Jon and Damian tightening their position on Schrodinger.

“Ok Cass let’s get these idiots evacuated from the building in case something goes south. Steph said. “B help us cause you can’t help them.”

“Coms are out.” Batman spoke tightly.

“Schrodinger's is working.”

“What triggered this hood!”

“Gramps needs a new call sign. You use the same name as a guy who tortured the kid. Keep him from anything white or bright lights.” the light on the ice wall went away. “Brat try to feel safe and calm. You are the closest to us he can feel your emotions and it’s going to help keep him stuck.” Tim cursed under his breath.

“Robin, Superboy, you need to make space if I need to take him.”

“You will not! Schrodinger, you are not there. You are safe in Gotham.”

“That’s an oxymoron if I ever heard one.” Kon mumbled.

“Not helping,” Tim whispered back.

“Shut up! It is your mistake that has gotten us in this mess to begin with!”

“How was I supposed to know?!”

“Dan, Vlad…” Schrodinger whimpered. But tipped his head.

“Ok move you two.” Kon said shoving the smaller boys to pick up the little kid into his arms lean him on him. “Who’s Dan and Vlad?” Kon asked.

“family and we don’t know. He hasn’t talked about a Vlad.” Selina said.

“So we are off script? That’s good right? Jon make an exit in the ceiling.”

“But…”

“Do it. Come on kiddo snap out of it. You’re friends are worried.” Kon snapped at Jon but rubbed at the kids back. Jon going to do as told finding a place not structural.

“Some suggestions on how to break him out without trusting in a bat expressing emotions besides anger and annoyance would be nice.” Tim said loudly to get attention of those on Schrodinger's com.

“Music! Music helps the kiddo’s emotions. Sing to him.” Harley came in.

“You have got to be kidding me. Singing?” Tim said. And after a silence filled only with whimpers and crying from Schrodinger for what felt like the longest minute of their lives someone started singing. And Tim was flabbergasted at who

“Fly me to the moon

Let me play among the stars

Let me see what spring is like on

A-Jupiter and Mars”

“Father?”

“Frank Sinatra really B?”

“Does it really matter right now, red?”

Batman expertly ignored his children and continued to sing if the siren’s thought it was going to work he’d take it. Lois had suggested the idea already and Constantine didn’t refute it. though not how he wanted to test the theory. And it was the first thing that came to mind; he knew how to sing.

“In other words, hold my hand"

"In other words, baby, kiss me”

“Clocky?'' Schrodinger mumbled turning his face into the older Superboy's chest hand grabbing a fistful of his shirt. Kon slowly backed up closer to the ice wall and closer to Batman’s singing. Cause holy shit if this worked that’d be great.

“Tell that man I hate him.” Selina’s voice came in over the com.

“Catwoman says she hates you B.” Jon repeated for her.

“Fill my heart with song and let me sing forevermore

You are all I long for

All I worship and adore”

“Who’s clocky?”

“Family.” the siren’s spoke again.

"In other words, please be true

In other words, I love you”

“Dan, no home, no home.” Schrodinger buried himself closer to Kon. the man’s head whipping up.

“siren’s are close. Are we in the clear?”

“Fill my heart with song

Let me sing forevermore

You are all I long for, all I worship and adore

In other words, please be true

In other words

In other words

I love you”

“Kon, do you know the song? Sing the opening refrain.” Tim said when Kon nodded his head. He and Bruce started the song over.

“Fly me to the moon

Let me play among the stars

Let me see what spring is like on

A-Jupiter and Mars”

“Schrodinger, you are safe with us. I told you I would not let harm come to you.”

“He knows that song. I think this Dan, Vlad or Clocky have sung it to him.” Tim said watching Schrodinger press even closer to Kon.

“He said he likes stargazing.” Jon added sadly. Patting his new friend's arm.

“I think the kids asleep.” Kon said.

“Good. Let him.” Jason's voice came through the wall unexpectedly.

The sound of a body hitting the wall of ice.

“Kids with us!” Kon shouted.

“Father!” “B!”

“Our kittens not broke, we won't break the bat.” Harley's voice echoed.

They heard Bruce grunt.

“He's either asleep or unconscious. It's hard to tell with his uh weird breathing and heartbeat.” Kon answered.

“How weird?” Ivy asked.

“It keeps stopping and restarting. So does his breathing.” Jon answered.

“Why did you not say so earlier?” Damian asked sharply.

“Cause he makes it stop all the time.” Jon argued.

“He was stitching you up? Is his first aid kit out?”

“Yep I have the kit.” Tim said, grabbing the box.

“Glowing green auto injector. Stick him with it anywhere." Ivy said calmly. Damian snatched it from Tim and injected him in his collar area. His breathing became steadier. Tim did notice Damian pocket the empty tool.

“Uh, was he hurt?” Tim asked confused

“Low on energy he's fine. Hood just fly over it and get him already.” Selina said to Jason.

“Hood can't fly.” Batman declared rather amendmently.

“ya, wouldn't really call what he does flying.”

“Wasn’t going to embarrass myself in front of the flyboys, but now I feel like I need to prove something.”

“I've got him. He's kind of got a hold of me. Red needs help though”

“I don’t.”

“I can help red Robin.” Jon said “he's injured.” He pulled Tim over his shoulder like a damsel so he wouldn’t touch his thigh or shoulder but Tim still groaned in embarrassment.

“Why do you not come through the ice?” Damian asked, having seen Hood go through the door.

“Kids ice blocks that demon brat. Kid built a fortress here to protect who was inside even from people like him.”

That had Tim feeling a bit awkward when Jon landed on the other side of the wall. Helping him stand upright. Kon and Damian follow close behind. Kon the last in case things changed. Harley had her hammer in Bruce’s gut pinning him to the wall. Jason was poking at the wall of ice. Selina and Pamela are close by. Ivy seemed to be holding Selina back. A hand on her shoulder.

“Give me my son.” Tim and Kon made eye contact and Tim gave him the signal to agree. Kon carefully walked to the two women. Trying to place Schrodinger into his mothers arms. Which seemed to have been the wrong call.

“No, no, no.” Danny’s mumbling started back up as he clinged to Kon’s shirt tighter. Ice embedding in the fabric.

“Sweetheart, shh it’s Selina. And aunt Pam.” Pam pulled forth a vine from her body to bloom a flower under his nose. The same one that was in his bedroom at their place.

Tim startled though when a plume of smoke was all that was left where Jason had been standing. The smoke reformed around Kon till Jason became sort of corporal again in the same area before pushing through Kon and fully forming on the visible spectrum as they normally recognized. Kon stumbled back at the shock. In his arms was Schrodinger who settled again. Jason’s eyes shined green through his helmet.

“Ooooohhhh how dramatic and mysterious.” Harley teased. Letting Batman up.

“Hood has always been dramatic.” Damian said with scorn.

“Neither of you have room to talk.”

“Will Schrodinger be alright?” Robin asked, ignoring hood.

“Yeah, can he still come play with us?” Jon asked shyly.

“It was an accident.” Selina said brushing at Danny’s bangs gently. “But he’s going to be worn out for a little while but Hood can get you a message when he’s ready to hang out again. Without Batman around.” Selina glared sharply at the man.

“One of my children was in danger too.” Batman countered.

“Replacement, you have ice on you still?”

“Uh no.” Tim said after taking stock of himself.

“We need to pay the cops off to keep out of here.” Ivy said, taking in the ice. “Till our kitten can get back here.”

“It really doesn’t melt?”

“Nope.” Harley said, leaning on her mallet. “Pretty as it is shouldn’t it be enjoyed.”

“Guess I need a new shirt.” Kon mumbled.

“It looks like frozen or crystalized lazarus water.” Tim said quietly.

“I’ll keep the cops clear.” Batman spoke up. “Show of goodwill.” Selina scoffed. Jason disappeared in a puff of smoke again, barely the shape of them man holding Schrodinger the boy rotating and ending up in Selina’s arm with the smoke solidifying behind her to have Jason standing behind her.

“So where did that come from?” Harley snorted.

“No idea.” Jason answered. “But let’s go. Hold you to it old man.” Hood taking up the rear as the ladies left. Selina carried her son tight to her chest whispering in his ear. Ivy wrapping him in her flowering vine.

“Bye batsy!” Harley waved her arm high above her head.

Once the sirens and hood were gone Kon tucked himself under Tim's good arm taking his weight off his bad leg. “Can’t believe you got shot!”

“I thought the place was empty. I was investigating the crates and the goons showed up. Caught me off guard.”

“Since when has Hood had powers? Do you think he can fly?” Jon asked.

“They didn’t seem confident in that assertion.

“Sad, I wanted to see it more after they said he sucked at it.” Steph said from above. Cass coming into view beside here.

“B.” Cass said looking at her father.

Who met her eye and looked away. “Let’s finish up here. Superboy please get red Robin back to the cave for a check over for agent a.”

“We will follow.” Damian took the first aid kit from Tim. Ignoring his brother's protest.

“Dibs on giving gramps a new name!” Steph called out.

***************************

“Did no one really catch B’s singing on video really?” Steph laminated. While Alfred was going over Tim's wounds.

“You have your memories to keep you well entertained, I'm sure mistress Steph.” Alfred said, cleaning up his tools. “Master Tim, I must admit, miss Kyle's young man has done an exceptional job. Dare I say besides a lack of antiseptic and tetanus shot. It was done flawlessly. I do not believe I could perform such fine stitching.”

“For not having anything to numb it, it hardly hurt too.” Tim said, looking at the one on his thigh. “Wonder if he used his powers on the needle and thread too. We need to see what we can find on someone going by red huntress.”

“I’ve already started a file Timothy.” Damian informed him.

“And you will have plenty of time to research. You are benched till these heal enough to remove the stitches. Master Tim.”

“What? Alfred no I’m fine!”

************************************************

You are needed in Gotham tonight Grayson. As soon as your patrol allows.

Dick stared at the text from Damian before flicking to the one from Jason.

Oldman is gonna have a melt down tonight. Heads up.

Dick let out a deep sigh but headed for his car.

***********************************

“How’s the kiddo?” Jason asked Selina standing in Danny’s doorway.

“He hasn’t woken up yet.” Selina said from the bed next to her son. He was holding tight to his mom. “How are you holding up? Not sure you were planning to let Bruce know about your powers like that.”

“He shouldn’t have been there. Danny was too vulnerable like that. The birds are one thing. Supes kid too. But just can’t help himself.”

“Jason.” Selina looked at him with a bit of judgment for dodging her question.

“I sent Dickhead a warning. And I don't know how I did the smokey man thing. I just did it. I knew Danny was scared and confused. Having him think he was being taken away from Kon like normal wasn’t going to work. If it freaked out the oldman oh well. He can get over it, and accept reality.” Jason finally answered.

“Going to talk to Alfred about a new call sign?” Selina asked.

“Naw the others can figure something out.”

Chapter Text

“What did you say to Damian that I got Graysoned?” Dick asked, strolling into the bat cave and moussing up to the simulator mat. Taking in the one completely obliterated robotic opponent. Dick didn’t even flinch at Bruce taking down his next robot right next to him.

“I sent him to bed, and sent Jon home.”

“Was this before or after you started beating the shit out of the training droids?” Dick rolled his eyes at Bruce ignoring his question. “How about you fill me in on what happened tonight?”

“The reports have been filed if you wish to read…”

“I didn’t ask for a report B I asked you to tell me.” Dick stared the man down.

Bruce glared back at his oldest before punching the stationary dummy that hadn’t moved yet sending it flying. “Your brother was shot, and overwhelmed, and Damian brought an unknown into the situation who made it worse. We got lucky.”

“How did Schrodinger make it worse?” Dick asked with a sigh. “I’m sure it wasn’t on purpose.”

“Of course not! It doesn’t have to be! The fact we don’t know anything about him, his powers, weaknesses or triggers! A child had a panic attack in the field because you and your brother are withholding information and conspiring with sirens to do it! Your siblings and civilians were put in danger because of it!”

“Did you yell at Damian and Jon for bringing Schrodinger to help rescue Tim?”

“No, I….” Dick crossed his arms over his chest and cocked his hip while glaring at Bruce. “I didn’t word it like that. He was trying to discuss updates to his procedures to accommodate Schrodinger after what just happened. Wanting to run tests on his first aid kit to have items for in the future…”

“And you snapped because you were still in the reflexive mood where you decided Schrodinger was too big a risk to have around. And you wonder why we don’t tell you anything.” Dick scoffed.

“He has a Canary cry Jason claimed could level a city block, and wasn’t responsive.”

Dick’s brow furrowed, before his eyes widened. “Wha… that’s… what the hell happened to trigger that? Who attacked Tim?”

“The Russians. They weren’t the trigger. Tim telling him agent A could complete his first aid did.”

Dick dropped his arms clenching his fists and eyes as the memories of the recording hit him with burning fury. He could totally see how that would set off Schrodinger. The man had ruined the affectionate call sign for him too. “Yeah, that… that would do it.”

“Care to explain?” Bruce asked, a bit salty. Knowing his son knew a lot more about the incident that caused it.

“No…” Dick shook his head. “No. if I think about it too much, you are going to have two wayward sons bombing the government. You might want to save some of your robots for when Selina and Jason decides it’s safe to share that with you. But might be a while if you blow up at Schrodinger for something he couldn’t control. Like you blew up at Damian for making a call to have more hands to help Tim. Kitten is pretty good at first aid unfortunately.”

“They have evidence?” Bruce asked.

“You aren’t getting it from me. I destroyed it. I wasn’t having anyone else subjected to seeing that by mistake for snooping.” Dick pressed the heels of his palms in his eyes. “And whatever you are picturing it’s worse. So much worse. and .” Dick let his arms and shoulders fall before meeting his father’s eyes and letting the man see his resolve. “If I come across the monster who triggered this whole thing, code or not. He’s getting the same treatment I gave joker. Only I will make sure he stays dead.”

“We can’t keep going in blind. It’s not protecting Schrodinger to be withholding information.” Bruce countered.

“Well you are going to have to deal. Because it is. It’s protecting you and the rest of the city too.” Dick stood tall under his father’s glare. “Because I've seen what happens when you fail Bruce. So has Tim. So has this city. Hell the world almost did if it hadn’t been for Clark. And once you have seen the sheer scope of our failure for Schrodinger, you will understand every decision they made with so much clarity, the guilt might just bench you. So for once think about how the victims are feeling more than your discomfort at not knowing everything immediately. Prove you can do that, and you might actually get what you want sooner than you will by pushing.” Dick shook his head, turning away from Bruce. “I’m going to go check on my siblings. When you get your head out of your ass why don’t you go to bed for the night." With those parting words Dick headed back up to the manor.

************************************

“G-dog.” Steph suggested.

“Absolutely not, mistress Stephanie.”

“Penny-one.” Tim suggested. “We've used it before.”

“No, too close to pennywise.” Dick said. “Schrodinger has a fear of clowns.”

“He lives with Harley!” Damian slammed his fists on the table.

“Yep, and Harley has been changing up her look a little and makeup if you haven't noticed. She also makes sure not to sneak up or surprise him in her makeup. Do you want to risk a repeat? Well not a repeat he doesn't panic like that to clowns.”

“What are his reactions to clowns?” Duke asked.

“Violence.” Dick answered lounging back in his chair.

“What level of …”

“Jason and the ladies approved. He feels bad after though.”

“The joker gang guy with the torn liver partially collapsed lung and ruptured spleen who was found outside the e.r. a few months ago?” Duke asked.

“Yep.”

Tim cringed, “is it too much to hope he never runs into the joker?”

“don't jinx it.” Steph hissed.

“How did you get in their good graces to have all this insider information?” Duke asked.

“Because I’m the favorite.” Dick said all smiles with both hands on his chest. Which got a groan from most of his siblings.

“Lies.” Cass said an air of confidence about her.

“True. I’m willing to tell a certain bat to back off is really why.” Dick said smugly looking over to Bruce who gave him a most unimpressed look in return.

“We’ll have to add name suggestions to the chat, it’s getting late.” Tim commented.

“You got work today?” Dick asked.

“No but you do….”

Dick shook his head. “Actually, with everything going on, and I foresee it only getting more necessary for me to be in Gotham, I quit my job.”

“What? When?”

“I put in my two weeks a little while ago. I’m cut loose now.”

All of his siblings cheered, throwing hands up into the air.

“End of the dark era!” Steph cheered.

“Oh come on! We are not labeling my time as a cop the dark era.”

“It was a dark spot on your record Richard.”

“What he said.”

“I’m sorry you felt you had to give up your job because of our need for you here.” Bruce spoke up after his children quieted down.

“I’m not. And it wasn’t just for you guys. Jason and the sirens need more support. I intend to be that. I’m still going to be back and forth, but I will be in Gotham more often.”

“Since you are in a sharing mood,” Tim spoke up again. “Care to share why Schrodinger's first aid kit has joker gas in an inhaler in it?” he dodged Damian lunge for him and his tablet.

“That is my sealed! Analysis report drake! You hacked it!”

“Master Damian, cease this behavior now! Master Tim is injured.”

“And he will be more once I get a hold of…”

“It’s the closest thing they have for pain relief for our kitten and Jay!” Dick yelled over top of everyone.

“I’m sorry what?!” Duke shouted after the stunned silence of everyone in the room. Bruce was also out of his chair trying to apprehend his youngest.

“Please, please tell me they didn’t joker gas Jason.” Dick just shrugged at Tim's babbling.

“It works like laughing gas on them. For an hour. Nothing else they have works to numb or cause pain relief.” Dick answered.

“And then what? Is that the time frame for the antidote?” Steph asked.

“Then it wears off. No antidote. The antidote is actually really bad to give them. Jason says it’s like the worst trip. Shadow people trying to kill him, unable to make himself move like he thought he was. So no antidotes to joker gas.”

“wears off?” Cass repeats and gets a nod. “Immune.”

“Just a different effect. Kind of like scarecrow's fear toxin, it doesn’t make them scared.”

“Are the siren’s just testing things out on them?” Bruce asked through gritted teeth.

“Ivy is a skilled biologist, even if she focused on plants. She does tests before Jason tries things out. But they aren’t sending Schrodinger out into Gotham without knowing how to handle it if he comes in contact with normal hazards for the city.” Dick said smugly to Bruce.

“What does fear gas do?” Steph asked curiously. Her grin grew to match Dicks responding one.

“Jason described it as the greaseyest batburger smothered in chili sauce onion rings and fries. It’s like junk food. They had to get rid of every last drop of it because Schrodinger acts like he’s on a sugar high. Jay scared the shit out of people from how peppy he was.”

“No way,” Duke said in shock himself. Dick just nodded away smiling.

“The crash is brutal. Like a hangover almost and kitten gets so cuddly.” Dick cooed hands cupped together dramatically with sigh.

Bruce and Tim's eyes widen dramatically. “They took him on patrol after giving him fear gas?” both asked though Tim was far more hysterical sounding and Bruce angry.

“Gotta burn off that energy somehow.” Dick teased back. “I don’t think you get to judge how someone raises a night gallivanting teen.” Dick gestured to all his siblings and himself.

“Leave me out of that. I’m a day time hero.” Duke argued.

“Please, please, tell me you are joking.” Tim pleaded.

“Not lying.” Cass said.

“He was fine. Promise. Jay was just mad he kind of killed his evil crime lord image. Nobody is afraid of the guy with a little kid clinging to him chanting uncle good, Uncle good.” Dicks smile grew when Damian grabbed his face and groaned.

“He calls Jason uncle good?” Steph cackled.

“Master Dick, I must insist that you stop bullying master Bruce.” Alfred scolded as much as he liked to have more details about his youngest grandson. He had to agree with master Bruce letting the boy out on the streets, possibly mentally compromised, was going to get a lecture from him.

Chapter Text

Signal caught sight of movement around the warehouse Tim had gotten jumped in. Using his powers he slipped inside to find a small figure making its way to the ice wall. In a gotham academy uniform and a martian manhunter Hoodie and a slight green glow about them.

“Schrodinger?” Signal called out in a whisper causing the boy to jump and turn around with an arm raised in a fist. “Easy it's Signal.”

Schrodinger had His lower face covered in a fabric medical mask. But he backed away from Signal. Duke responded by putting his hands up to show he wasn't a threat. “Hey we're friends right?” He made sure his com was on with Oracle when he looked so unsure about the fact. “Hood told you yesterday was a misunderstanding right?” That got him a slight nod. OK so maybe just nervous. “Here to melt the ice?” Another timid nod. “You still feeling out of it? Think you'll be up to patrolling with Robin tonight?” That was the wrong thing to say, Schrodinger started backing up again, hugging his arms to himself. The sound of a muffled phone ring filled the quietness of the warehouse.

“You should take that. I promise I'm not going to do anything.” Signal prompted him. He watched Schrodinger reach Into his leg and pull out a phone before answering.

“Hey, no, um I'm at the warehouse place. I'm not alone. Signal is here.” Schrodinger looked over at Signal, quickly biting his lip before sighing and holding out his phone.

“Yellow bat you team up with our cat or did he go off on his own after being told to wait?” Jason asked. Signal moved closer while talking but kept his eyes on the kid.

“He asked me to be his back up. He's in undercover civies.” Duke gave the kitten a head tilt to mark a wink with the mask, and a reassuring smile at the boy's shock.

“Yeah how'd he contact you then to ask?” Jason grilled. He knew the kid was lying but he had no trouble covering for him. Nobody in this family had room to judge for sneaking around after being told to wait for backup.

“Waved me down from Sawyer. Pretty easy to spot him. He glows faintly green.” Schrodinger was staring at him awestruck. Like he couldn't believe Duke was lying for him. “I qualify as back up right?”

“Yeah, why's he upset?”

“We got startled by a mutantly large rat.” Signal’s smile grew when the kid covered his mouth to laugh.

“Thought you were the smart one lightbulb.”

“I am, the pretty one too.” Danny snorted trying to hold in his laughter.

“I don’t have time for this, he's in the alley by 5 or you won't be pretty for a while.”

“Understood.”

“Are You good kiddo? You feel better.”

“Yeah I'm good.”

“5, not a minute late.” And with that Jason hung up. And Schrodinger put his phone back in his leg.

“You wanna talk about it?” Duke asked, waiting for Schrodinger to look back at him. “Robin said or did something right? It's why I spooked ya.” Duke took in his hunkered shoulders. “You don't have to, but maybe I can help you understand some context. Robin isn't the best at tact. And sometimes comes off harsher than he means. He really cares about you though.”

Schrodinger rubbed his arm before walking over to the ice wall putting his hand on it and it dissipated rather quickly. His glow grew till it settled to where it was. Then he started looking around the area. “Thanks for covering for me.” Danny said after a minute.

“No problem. Hood used to sneak off on his own I am told. So he doesn't get to be a hard ass when you do it. Worrying is one thing.” Duke said. But kept some space between them. “What are you looking for? I can help.”

“My first aid kit. There is some stuff in it dangerous for normal people.” Danny answered.

“Robin took it last night. He still has it. He was planning to restock it for you and wanted to see if we could add stuff to ours to match your kit for emergencies.” Signal took a risk to reach out and pat Schrodinger's shoulder. “He is very protective of it too. Took extra effort to hide it from batman too.”

“But told stuff to Superboy I didn't tell either of them.” Schrodinger shrugged off his hand with a pout.

“What did he tell superboy you didn't want him to? I'm sure it wasn't on purpose. He is really protective of you. Even though what happened was an accident he's been really upset with red over it.”

“That I could fly. Neither of them should have known that.”

Duke frowned a bit. “Um, we saw you fly when I took you to the safe house.”

“No, I was floating, I'm not allowed to let people see me fly. I didn't break that rule till yesterday, cause it was urgent.”

“Hey, I don’t think he meant to out something about you, or get you in trouble. But, uh if you can float any bat is going to assume you can also fly. Superboy probably came to the same conclusion.”

“But they are different things.”

“Would you be willing to show me both? So I can see the difference? Visually from someone who doesn't know it might look the same.” Schrodinger looked at him suspiciously. But after an internal debate he seemed to make up his mind.

“Floating.” Danny said, watching the visible doors as his feet lifted off the ground Duke laughed when Selina son sat down criss-cross in midair.

“I don't think I've seen any supers or other metas who fly just sit in midair but it does look like flying.” Duke said before the kid’s glow increased and Danny moved towards him circling him. “OH you glow more now.”

“Yeah this is flying.” Danny said.

Then it clicked for Duke, “the more you glow the more traceable you are. It wasn't just red Robin, you felt setup.” His com clicked a code so he knew Oracle was passing along important information. “I promise it was an accident. Robin wouldn't be able to tell the difference.” Schrodinger landed in front of him. Poor kid looked ready to cry. And he had warmed up to Dick already so he decided to go with one of his signature moves. “Do you want a hug?” Duke asked softly. He waited for the sniffle and small nod before crouching down a little and pulling the kid into a loose hug. So he wouldn’t feel trapped. “Hey, I'm sorry. But I promise Robin would not let that happen to you. He’s not that great at making friends. Superboy and you are probably some of the very few friends he has on the hero side and he is very very protective and defensive of his friends.”

“But what if your dad decides he has to. Or Superman.”

“I really don’t think he would try and make Robin or Superboy betray you even if he could. Cause he can’t. He can’t make any of us do anything. And it drives him nuts.” that got Schrodinger to pull back and rub at the tears on his face. His eyes definitely looked like he was smiling a bit. “Robin and Superboy have your back. So do I and the other batkids. I’ll make sure they know they accidentally made you uncomfortable and scared and why ok. And Robin will bring you back your first aid kit tonight. But you don’t have to patrol with him if you need some space. He will understand if you don’t.”

“Ok. I don't want to go out of the alley tonight. With everything, I came here without Jason cause my ice has my ecto signature. It’s like a big beacon. I needed it back fast.”

“Is that the green glow it has? Like you?” he got a nod. “Ok, well do you want me to take you back to crime alley? We can get there quick with my powers and a grapple. No need to take the bus. And then neither of us have to listen to Hood bitch.” that got a snort of a laugh from Selina’s kid.

*************************************

“You filthy liars have fun?” Hood asked when Duke and Danny popped out from a crevice near a gargoyle.

“Of coarse we are bros.” Duke held out a fist for a bump from Schrodinger when they landed. Setting him down first. Even with the bottom of his face covered he could tell the kid was pouting. “And it’s not lying about him having back up if I was in fact there.”

“Did you get it taken care of at least, since you snuck around?” Hood asked, ignoring Duke.

“Ice, yes, not my med kit.”

“Robin has it. He’s bringing it tonight. I will let him know their playdate got canceled though. Got a drop point he can hit without setting off your attack dog senses.” which got a genuine laugh from Schrodinger.

“He can drop it by the house. Tell him to call first and don’t touch the greenhouse.”

“Will do.” he saluted before grappling away with a wave. Schrodinger waved back. Duke felt like he at least started his after school patrol on a good note.

Chapter Text

“Hello Damian.” Selina said when the boy landed on their roof.

“Hello,'' Damian took in her attire, but noted how she had disrespected him by using his real name in his night life outfit. He was on the fence on what to address her at the moment. “Miss Kyle.” he finally settled on getting a raised brow in return. But he held out the case he was here to return. “Since Red Robin’s lack of skill was the cause of its use, we have replaced the drain, stitches and added a few tetanus shots and antiseptic per …” he paused, they still didn’t have a new call sign. They just were not referring to Alfred in the field around Schrodinger until such a time they had a new call sign. “Penny-one '' Kyle could infer easily enough from that.

“That is kind of you, but might be a bit unnecessary. Schrodinger doesn’t need those.” Selina responded. She was not being hostile. That was a good sign to Robin.

“They are necessary if he continues to do work on others. Which he seems eager to do.”

“He does like to help people.” Selina gingerly took the case from him. “I wanted to tell you thank you. For befriending my son, and introducing him to your friend. He’s had a hard time making friends since I brought him home and it’s nice that he has at least one, maybe two his own age.”

“I find Schrodinger to be an adequate patrol partner. He listens to instructions better than my siblings, and what he lacks in skill is made up for easily by his willingness to follow lead. He is very aware of his limitations and does not overstep.”

“High praise from you. You don't compliment your siblings as willingly.” Selina teased a bit.

“I will give praise where it is due. Not for platitudes.” Robin stated gruffly his face scrunched up a bit more like he ate a lemon. “And in that same vein, I am also able to take responsibility for my failures and make amends.” Robin shuffled a bit in front of her. “it has been brought to my attention that I have overstepped. It was not my intent to compromise your ward. I made assumptions about Schrodinger's motivations that put him at risk. It also drove him to break your rules. I'd like to apologize for my transgressions.”

Selina pet Damian's hair ignoring him disgruntlement and moving out of her reach. “Thank you, it's nice to see you developing skills beyond your father's. But I'm not the one you should apologize to.”

“You are, but I owe Schrodinger one as well. If I would be allowed.”

“Schrodinger needs some space for a little while. He will seek you out when he's ready and then you can apologize to him. Can I trust you to give him space?”

“Yes, unlike Red Robin and Batman I am capable of stepping back if the situation calls for it.”

“Alright I have a question for you, do you have a crush on my son?”

The absolute unfiltered look of disgust settled Selina a lot. Even before he started sputtering.

“I have intellectual standards for my romantic partners. Schrodinger most certainly doesn't meet them.”

“You were just praising him.”

“Though he has many talents, his intellect is not one of them.” Robin glared at her, “Why would you even ask such a ridiculous question?”

“Ask your siblings. Have a safe patrol Robin.” With that dismal Robin tsked at her and took his leave. Selina waited till he was gone before heading back down into the house.

Chapter Text

“Oh you have so many balls out today. I don’t know which one to kick first." Jay turned to Frank at his side. “Get lost, keep the brat out of this area and I want everyone gone with you.”

“You got it boss.” Frank said, clearing out the warehouse. Marco left with Frank, leaving Matches Malone alone with their boss. Marco shut the door behind them on the way out. Malone locked it. Jason opened up a drawer with a green glow of his hand and flipped a few switches to turn on anti-listening devices for both humans and ghosts, and a ghost shield to get the kid out. He amped up the feeling he had of the pit to disable any of Bruce's own tech, the lights flickering a bit since his control wasn’t as great.

“The fuck you think you’re doing here?” Jay pulled his hand out of the drawer with a gun leveled at his dad. “And for your sake I hope you actually thought this out thoroughly. But I doubt it.”

“I came to speak to you. Seemed the only method I had available to do so.”

“Well then speak old man. Better make it good or might just have to end this avenue for you too.”

“We need to talk about Selina's ward.” Bruce frowned as the bullet whizzed past his shoulder.

“I’ll stop you there. I’m not telling you a damn thing about him. You got what we are willing to give you from dark. You got something to tell me about your side of the case. I'm willing to hear it.”

“We haven’t made much progress on the line of failure from the claims of reaching out to the league.”

“Calling him a liar?” Bruce’s eyes narrowed on the finger tightening on the trigger. Aim was still not on his persons yet though closer than the last one.

“No, I just don't have enough information to make a lot of headway yet. Your brother is working back through their evidence on one of their cases also for some other avenues for a lead. Your incomplete report has similar qualities.”

“To secrets. I know.” Jason tilted his head, snearing. “Hence why I struggle to see how it’s not intentional that his situation was allowed to get so bad. You’ve had bread crumbs on this for years.”

“If you and the sirens really believed that you wouldn’t allow him anywhere near your siblings.”

“Just because I think you are a paranoid hypocrite doesn’t mean I can't believe my siblings aren’t better than you.”

“They are. All of you are.” Bruce replied earnestly. Despite Jason milliseconds of shock shifting to a snarl.

“Don’t patronize me! You aren’t manipulating me.”

“I’m not. You want help. You are reaching out. I’m offering a hand back.”

“No, you are holding a rope above my head with strings attached. I know you, you want Schrodinger off the field. Don’t worry, I already know all your complaints. But I’m not leaving the field either.” Jason dissolved into a cloud of smoke flitting past his desk to solidify him just within arms reach of his dad, sticking his face even closer with a tilt.

Bruce’s frown deepened. “I don’t think you having a close relationship with Schrodinger is helping you keep focused on your goals on this case.”

Jason snorted before breaking down into laughing maniacally in Bruce’s face. “Compromised. That’s what you are going with? Holy shit, that’s hilarious coming from you.” he poked Bruce in the chest with his gun. “I don’t care if you think I'm compromised. And we both know that is not the problem here.”

“What do you think my problem is?”

“That you don’t have control of the situation. That you don’t have control of the sirens, and you don’t have control of me. And you are putting all of that on this poor kid who hasn’t done a damn thing wrong.” Jason glared at him moving in even closer. “That he reminds you of where you failed me. We are both dead. And the powers.” Jason phased through Bruce to shove him further into the office from behind. “Are a in your face reminder, that I’m not the kid who died in that fucking warehouse alone. And I'm never going to be.”

Bruce turned to face his son. “Your powers don’t make me care about you less. They don’t make you any less my son.”

“No it’s just more salt for the wound.” he shoved Bruce again. “Every time I do it in front of you. Is it the same with the kid and his powers? He’s more open with it. And we are the same. Just burns your ego doesn’t it?”

“You are not Schrodinger. And that you are conflating the two of you is showing how you need to take a step back. I’m not saying don’t be there for him as a mentor…”

“He isn’t my fucking side kick! I don’t take on child soldiers! I’m not you!”

“Then how would you describe your relationship?” which derailed his anger before he shoved past Bruce to go back to his desk.

“My relationship with the kid is none of your business. We have a camaraderie you’ll never understand.” Jason sat down in his chair. “You jealous I'm closer with some mystery kid than the family or you? Is that your new hang up angle?”

“I didn’t come here to argue with you…”

“You did, or you wouldn’t have shown up here at all. I’m not snubbing the kid or siren’s because of your control issues. Which is the source of the problem. And we all know it. Secondly, it’s that he and I remind you of where I died. The powers come from our deaths. As kids. Because the adults in our lives screwed up.” Jason pointed his pistol back at his dad. “His are making an effort to make amends and move forward by putting him and his needs first.” Jason smirked at him. “Can you see where I'm going with this? What’s missing on this side of our comparison? If you are done lying to both of us I think you need to leave.”

“He is a danger to himself and others in the field. He is untrained, none of you are putting in the effort to get him trained.”

“Get out.”

“He could have been hurt or hurt your brothers and then you’d be sitting in my place.”

“They choose to go out and put themselves at risk. Schrodinger is the least at risk unless he comes up against the GIW, or you are working with them. I can’t stop him anymore than you could stop the rest of us. Get over it and get out or you are the next one who is going to need stitches.”

Bruce huffs but he knows Jason isn’t going to let him get another word in. and he’s not up for being shot tonight if he wants to get anything done. So he turns and makes his leave.

“Don’t come back here again.” Jason called out after him.

Chapter Text

“No! No! No!” Riddler screamed coming into the warehouse to see several of his traps had been completed. “Who did this!” he screamed out. Before a tiny child in a black cat suit appeared with a sheepish smile and wave.

“Hi Mr. Eddie Riddler sir. I was gonna fix it when I was done. See I reset the great pumpkin one already.”

“You! You! Catboy… What's your name again?” Eddie asked storming across the area to meet with Selina's child. He kept a sharp eye out for any of the sirens. Last thing he needed was to deal with an overprotective momma cat. He happened to like this suit a lot and Selina has no chill when she is in a mood.

“Schrodinger.”

“Schrodinger! What the hell do you think you are doing?”

“Testing your new escape room? It’s amazing! The themes and displays and imagery are amazing!” The kid gushed fists near his face, a wide smile and a green glow in his mask lens. “The headless horseman, the angles and everything in the room really made the chase seem to take up more room than it did. It was so freaking cool!”

“Testing? Testing?!” Riddler threw his hands out, one holding his cane. “Child, my projects do not get tested! I know how brilliant they are! I made them! This was for Batman! Batman was supposed to complete this to show my superiority! How can I present this to the world's greatest detective if you already completed it?! How can I even pretend the man won’t just defeat it if a spoiled little child who doesn’t understand working boundaries in Gotham?! You do not mess with another rogues death traps! So much work! And you’ve completely ruined the timeline! I have to start all over now because of you!” he pointed his cane at the unruly brood of Selina.

“It was so cool looking I couldn’t just not do it.” Schrodinger pouted. “I think you’re cooler than Batman.”

That derailed Eddie a bit. “What? You think I'm cooler than Batman?” his cane lowered. “I mean of course I'm better than that man in every way. But I need to prove it publicly and you are derailing that youngman!”

“I’m sorry. But they are just so cool. I can put it back the way I found it.”

Eddie leaned down to meet the kid's face. “There is no point in resetting it! If you were able to complete it! Then surely Batman will as well." Eddie sighed and stood back up holding his head. “Go home kid. And stay out of my work! How did you even find this place!”

“It’s not really hard.” the catboy pouted.

“I’m going to ignore that comment. As I take great care in hiding my work till I'm ready." Eddie glowered at the boy. “Now get.” he made a shooing motion. “And do not come back!”

“If you aren’t going to use this, can I take a souvenir?” Schrodinger asked, making a comical pout and cartoonishly large begging eyes.

“Ugh!” Eddie pulled back. “Yeah sure if you stop whatever that is you are doing. It’s not right. Your parents are edgy, dark and scary. You need to get on brand. Not.” he made a circle motion at the boys face. “Whatever this is? New age happy tree friends or something. Gross. Get what you want and go, go. Be gone childish headache. Leave me to mourn my wasted time and effort!”

“Ok thanks Mr. Eddie. Sorry I didn't get it put back together before you noticed. Bye!”

“That is not the point!!!!!!!” Eddie screamed after the boy as he disappeared from view. Eddie grabbed his shoving his hat up a bit on his head, eyes. “Ugh, how could that man create an even bigger headache for me.”

“You were doing so well too Mr. Eddie.” Riddler's eyes snapped open to find himself face to face with the Red Hood. And his pistol millimeters from his face to be pushed in his mouth, when Red Hood put a finger to the mouth area of his mask. The two men stood frozen for a bit. Finally after what felt entirely too long to Riddler, Red Hood lowered his finger and pulled his gun out of the man’s mouth. Eddie’s lips pulled back while he ran his tongue over his teeth to make sure they were fully intact. Dental work is expensive. Even minor work. He was trying to avoid dentures. He didn’t want to be in the middle of a monologue and his teeth fall out. That would be an embarrassment he’d never live down in this day and age. “What are you doing in my turf Riddler? And the only reason you don’t have a bullet in your head already, is cause you were nice to the brat.”

“Oh goody, the kid’s a headache little brother for you?” Eddie sassed the crime lord.

“Watch yourself Eddie. You don’t want to kill my giving mood would you?”

“I don’t have any goons here. And the little shit fried my cameras. Why do you think I showed up?” Eddie crossed his arms, hanging his cane off his arm. “Harley, made it obvious they are toning down their violence in front of the ankle biter.”

“Ah, well unlucky you, I know the kids not here anymore.'' Jason enjoyed the panic that graced the Riddler's face as the man took a step back. “Lucky for you, kid likes you and you make a good distraction. So I'm giving you a chance to ship out of my turf with all your teeth. Oh and make sure you don’t talk about his dad in-front of him.”

“Oh secrets, secrets, secrets, you bats do love them. But very well. It effects me not." Eddie twirled his finger to indicate his work. “Can I convince you to keep the little brat out of work?”

Hood scoffed, the noise harsh through his voice modulator. “No, what’s the thing the kids say these days? Get good?” Hood shrugged.

“I may not be into the slang of the youth, but I don't think that sounds very hip coming from you.” Eddie said.

“I really don’t care. Stay out of crime alley. Go annoy some other crime boss.”

“But your area is perfect! None of the other bats step foot here. You have to understand the appeal.”

“Again I don't care. I’m not having bait for my old man on my turf. Better for everyone that way. So unless you want to really disappear don’t come back. And if the kid annoys you, he lives here too. My haunt is his playground. Get off it,”

“Fine, whatever. Not interested in playing with the man’s brats. I’m above that.” Eddie sniffed his nose at Jason before going to collect his more important things around the warehouse.

“You have a week. Then I'm cleaning this place out." Eddie waved him off. Red hood left after that disappearing much like the child had appeared. Which made Eddie contemplate the fact, and their aversion to batman. What an interesting puzzle.

Chapter Text

“Oh my god guys.'' Nightwing barely breathed into his coms. Doing everything he can to hold back his laughter to not give away his position. It was getting harder and harder by the second.

“What is happening? Is Hood in danger? Is that why he is refusing to answer Oracle?”

“No, he's, I want to say fine. But I don't know maybe mind control or blackmail is involved. Or something. Because I love Jaybird. I know deep down he’s got a big heart and is a big sap. But holy shit I'm not sure it’s big enough for this. If its not, he's been holding back on his playful side with us.”

“That is so vague and unhelpful when the video feeds don’t fucking work Nightwing!” Tim yelled into his com. He was frustrated. Halloween sucked. He was running ragged. And they need some extra help. Sadly their usual back up was ghosting them still.

“He's in a dress.”

The com went silent for a minute.

“What? Like he’s not kitted up on Halloween?" Duke asked.

“Oh no. He is kitted up. As Red Hood. But he has on a dress from Encanto on top of it. The guessing from the choreography it’s the buff sister. Our little kitten friend has on a Mirabel costume on top of his usual get up. The sirens are kitted up too, and have Encanto costumes on over their old costumes. Ivy is the older sister, Harley is the weather aunt. And Selina is I think the mom. Holy shit. Croc is dressed as Bruno. And Grundy is dressed as the weather lady’s husband.” Dick hurried to spill all he could see before he cracked into laughter at the sight. “Even bud and lou are dressed like the donkeys.”

"You have to figure out how to get a picture Nightwing oh my god." Steph screeched over the com.

“Focus, all of you.” Batman scolded them. “Nightwing try to make contact…”

“Absolutely not.” Nightwing cut him off. “They obviously have plans and are prepared if something goes down big. But let them take care of the alley and we’ll just have or make due with the rest.”

“That is not…”

“B , they are ignoring us for a reason. Drop it. We can handle it”

“Dude we are drowning out here. We are down four people." Tim complained again.

“We could use the help.” Duke suggested.

“And we are going to make do. Hood and the sirens are obviously making a statement. They have the alley. Nightwing out.”

******************************************

Back at the manor as several banged and bruised vigilantes collapse onto the furniture after a long and tiring night.

“Whoever pissed Hood off recently enough to ghost us on Halloween, better fucking figure out how to fix it.” Steph groaned her face pressed into the rug on the floor.

Alfred cleared his throat. “My I wonder who on earth that could be.” he made a pointed look at Bruce before heading to the kitchen to collect some snacks and drinks for his bandaged hoard.

Everyone turned and glared at Bruce who was sitting in his chair listing to one side. “I may have, made a miscalculation…”

Several shouts and groans accompanied pillows being thrown at him.

Chapter Text

“Yeah?” Tim said as he answered his phone, he was making his way out of Wayne Enterprises to get himself some lunch.

“Tim, I need you to head to Damian's school. There’s been an incident of some sort involving your brother and I’m stuck in a meeting. I tried calling Dick, but he doesn’t know how long it will take him." Bruce said exasperated into the phone.

“Ok sure, I'm going out to lunch now anyway. And had reports to deal with after." Tim dug out his keys and headed for the parking garage. “Do we know what kind of incident?”

“The administrator said he had an altercation at school and is also lying to staff to avoid consequences.” Bruce said wearily. “The meeting’s getting started again. I have to go. Do you have this covered?”

“I’ve got it Bruce. Later.” Tim hung up on him as he climbed into his car. And headed for Gotham heights.

****************************************************

Tim blinked as he stared at the young boy sitting in the school office disciplinary seats, arms angrily crossed and a recognizable pout on a familiar yet not familiar face. “You are not Damian. '' is all Tim could bring himself to say.

The kid looked up at him throwing up his arms in exclamation with his words. “Thank you! Now will you please explain that to Mr. Gorcherosk? Because I've been telling him that’s not my name but he keeps calling me a liar! I don’t even know who Damian is, or why so many people here call me that.”

“Yes.” Tim answered. “What is your name? So they can check the computers for your parental contacts? Or did you do that already?”

“He took my phone. And my mom’s out of town. Uncle Waylon's on my list of emergency contacts though. He’s watching me. Name’s Danny.”

“How about a full name for the inept administrator.”

“Danny James Kyle.”

“I’ll get this sorted out in no time Daniel.”

“Danny!” the kid responded strongly. His hands wrapped around the chair arms tightly.

“Sorry, Danny. I’ll get this sorted out really quick. Sit tight.” with that Tim opened the door to the office to find the secretary and Mr. Gorcherosk.

“Ah Mr. Drake-Wayne, I was hoping to be meeting with Mr. Wayne today to deal with Damian's disciplinary issues, but no matter. I finally caught Damian in another altercation with Mr. Byron. Sebastian is in the nurse's office with bruised, possibly cracked knuckles. As you know we do not tolerate fighting here at Gotham academy. And our rules on student conduct about lying to staff and administration are very clear.”

“What are you claiming he lied about?” Tim asked, cutting the older man off.

“He lied about his identity. Tried to get his misdeeds attributed to another student.”

“And who would that student be?” Tim asked, bored with this man already. Sebastian Byron had tried throwing his weight around with Damian several times through the school years. Danny didn’t have any bruises but if Byron’s son’s only injuries were to his own hand, he was going to put money on him being the one to swing on the kid. Tim took the time during the man’s rant to text Dick and tell him he better get to Damian's school pronto.

“A Daniel Kyle.”

“Yeah maybe you should look that student up then. Because the kid in the hall isn’t Damian Wayne. And I can't even begin to tell you how lucky you are that Bruce isn’t the one who showed up here.” Tim countered. He stared down the man daring him to argue with a single raised brow as the older man pursed his lips. They had a few minute long stare off till he conceded. Asking the secretary to look up the student. Tim took great joy in watching their eyebrows creep up as they probably pulled up the emergency contacts.

“Oh, oh no.” the secretary said pointing at the screen. Tim caught the reflection of it in her glasses, a big red notation that Danny was not to be classed with any of the Wayne children. Nor to attend any presentations by Bruce Wayne. That explains how the kid got past them for a few months into the school season.

“May I?'' Tim asked not waiting to turn the screen sideways to look at it with them. Tim was rather thankful for it being him here, but this idiot might just need guarding to keep his head for this. He knows what names they recognized, and there was one there he wasn’t expecting though it was on the bottom, Oswald Cobblepot. Yeah no. Danny was going to be taking a day trip with him and hopefully Dick if he gets his ass here. “Ah that must be the uncle Waylon he mentioned his mom was out of town and that is who he is staying with at the moment.” Tim pointed to the name. “Waylon Jones, huh isn’t that killer croc's name? And no wonder they don’t want him in any classes with my little brother. Probably worried they’d be confused each other.'' Tim stared at Mr. Gorcherosk again. “So how exactly did this fight go down?”

“Well Mr. Byron said Damian…”

“Danny.”

“Attacked him in the hallway and when he went to defend himself, Danny,” the name said with some contempt. “Struck his hand with the locker door.”

“Do you have it on camera?”

“No, there seems to have been an issue with them at the moment. But Damian has been picking fights with Sebastian for some time and I just happened to catch this one.”

“And it wasn’t even Damian. So are you sure you have your facts straight? Did you even ask Danny what happened? After ignoring him when he was telling you his name you didn’t want to believe it. He’s a whole head shorter, 40 lbs lighter and paler than my brother by the way." Tim pointed at the info on the screen. “And younger. And if Sebastian Bryon is the only one with injuries to his fist like that. He probably missed the swing and hit the locker.'' Tim turned his head to the office door calling out loudly. “Hey Danny can you come in here please?”

The door opened and the kid who looked like one of his brothers came in slowly but shut the door behind him. “Yeah?”

“Please tell Mr. Gorcherosk what happened in the hallway." Tim said while staring down the teacher.

“Uh the blonde with the attitude grabbed me in the hallway while I was getting my books. Called me someone named Wayne. And he was turning me around while swinging at my head, I dodged, he hit the locker and then Mr. Gorcherosk started yelling from down the hall and brought us to the office before blondey got sent to the nurse.”

“Thank you.” Tim said. “Now go get your stuff. You are off the rest of the day of school.”

Danny looked at him then looked to the teacher and secretary who nodded and he went to go do that.

Tim turned his attention back on the school staffers. “Alright, you have enough for your report. So now I'm going to do you a favor. You are going to give me his phone and sign him out to me.”

“We can’t do that.” the secretary started to argue.

“Oh, but you can, because if you don’t, I'll have reporters down here faster than you blink looking into the poor handling of the school for bullying and handling of student records and confidentiality. And then you can call his family contacts. Which seem to start with Harley Quinn and poison ivy, to killer Croc and the penguin. And you can explain to them how you broke this big bright red rule right here.” he pointed to the notation again. “I think you’re best interests and his says you release him to me. Now.'' Tim held out his hand for the phone. The secretary pulled out a key on a lanyard to unlock her drawer and pull out the weirdest looking phone Tim had ever seen, but it was placed in his open hand. Mr Gorcherosk grumbled but he did get the sign out and passed it to Tim who filled it out and he glared at the teacher until he signed the field for administrator. Tim was going to make sure there was a paper trail on this one. Good for blackmail.

“Ok I have my stuff.” Danny said coming back into the office looking confused but with a book bag with a skateboard on it.

“Have you ate lunch yet Danny?” Tim asked.

“No, not yet. That’s supposed to be this period. I have the last lunch period." Danny replied.

“Well for all the confusion i’m going to take you out to lunch ok? My name is Tim Drake-Wayne. I’m Damian Wayne's brother. Where would you like to go? My treat.” Tim said, coming up beside him.

“Is that ok?” Danny asked, confused looking at the staff for verification.

“Yes, the Waynes are very kind people, they do a lot for students at the school here. Sorry for all the trouble Mr. Kyle.” the secretary said with a nod and strained grin.

“Ok.” Danny said with a shrug looking to Tim. “I guess lead the way? I’ll eat pretty much anything.”

“What do you want to eat though?” Tim asked, opening the door and leading him out. With too much ease. God this really was Schrodinger. Tim was getting a coffee wherever they went.

“Burgers sound good.” Danny said. He looked over when Tim's phone gave a vibration alert. Tim sent Dick a string of emoji’s he hoped really got the point across at the urgency of his request along with the address of the bat burger he was going to take the kid to. One closer to work and Dick in Bludhaven. “Here.” Tim passed the kid his phone back with a tracker now in it. “You should probably let whoever picks you up know you aren't at school.”

“I don't get picked up. I usually walk and take public transportation.” Danny answered but typed away at his phone, to uncle Waylon. Incident at school, kicked out for the day. Some rich dude taking me to get lunch.

Waylon typed back, wth kid? Who?

“What's your last name again Tim? My uncle wants to know who I'm with?” Danny asked.

“Tim Drake-Wayne. You can pop it into Google and a picture will come up too.” Tim said, opening the back door of his car. “You are kind of small. Not sure you should sit in the front seat with the airbag.”

Danny for his part just shrugged, hit send on his phone and threw his backpack into the back and climbed in. Tim shut the door behind before climbing into the driver's seat. Was he happy that went easy yes, but oh my god he was an internal freak out at how easy that was. They are so lucky other rogues don't just lure the kid off with candy. He was going to make this probably B baby if not clone child a stranger danger powerpoint. Today. Fuck reports. “Your uncle OK with it?”

“Yeah he wants me to check in when we get to the restaurant.” Danny was buckled in and sitting looking out the window.

“Ok well you said burgers, so I'm going to take you to my favorite bat burger. It's the one they do all the testing at before it goes out to other locations and has the wifi and charging stations.”

“Sounds fancy and rich neighborhood.”

“Pretty much. Also my older brother is going to meet us there. I was on my way to lunch with him when I got the call to come to the school.”

“Are You like your little brother's guardian?” Danny asked suddenly.

“No, our dad was just stuck in a meeting. And I was the closest available adult.”

“You don’t look very adult. You look like a teenager.”

Tim raised a brow at him in the mirror. “Really short stack?”

“I'm not claiming to be an adult.” Danny shrugged.

“I'm 20. You can Google me.” Said with a head shake. “I got Bluetooth.” Tim pointed to the radio. “Traffic is kinda bad on the bridge if you want to put on your tunes.”

“You are going to trust a complete stranger with your ears?”

“You trusted a complete stranger with your life on the offer of food. I think I can sacrifice my ears as a reassurance. Plus you can't be worse than my older brother and his bubblegum pop karaoke.” Tim ribbed the kid a little.

“Oh?” Tim caught the look of challenge accepted. The kids grin just that little edge of sharpness. The eyes though were just like Bruce's when he was grinning but holding his mouth straight so as not to give it all away when he was screwing with the league. And the dash computer lit up as Danny connected to it without breaking eye contact in the mirror. Pumped up kicks started blasting out his speakers.

“I don't know how anyone confused you for Damian.” Is all Tim said, putting his attention on the road. Danny cackling in the back seat. But much more relaxed like he is when on the rooftops with them. Tim let out a heavy sigh when Danny started singing and dancing along. God Dick was going to get along with him way too much.

**********************

“Who's your new friend there, Tim?” Dick asked outside the bat burger, handing Tim a coffee from his favorite shop, all smiles. Oh Tim was going to murder Dick. That bastard.

“HI, I'm Danny the highschooler your brother kidnapped.” Danny held his hand out for a shake.

“It's not kidnapping if you come willingly. For food. “ Tim shot back with only a little heat on the last bit.

Danny shrugged. “You did threaten the staff and bribed me to go with you.”

“And you still came with me?!” Tim ignored Dick's snickering.

“Free food is free food. Don't know what to tell ya.” Danny walked towards the door holding it open for the older men.

“Did you really threaten them?” Dick asked, walking in holding the door above Danny's head so he could walk in.

“That asshole has had it for Damian for years. So much he couldn't even get the right kid!” Tim defended.

“Thanks by the way.” Danny said as Tim came through the door. “You didn't have to defend me. Could have just corrected the mix up and left me to deal with the rest.”

“But it was so obvious you didn't fight. I couldn't just let them put a bunch of trumped up b.s. on an obviously innocent kid.” Tim said.

“Yeah, but it wasn't your problem, and adults don't usually stick up for me, even when I'm right. So thanks.” Danny said with a genuine, not smug or plotting smile. “What's your name tall dark, and doesn't question his younger sibling kidnapping kids?”

“Sorry, my names Dick. It's very nice to meet you Danny.”

“Like on purpose?” Danny asked, nose scrunched.

“Yes on purpose. He has a very dated name; it comes with a very dated nickname.” Tim responded first.

“Are You like super old or something?” Danny asked as the 3 got in line. Eyeing Dick up to scrutinize his appearance.

“No! I'm not even 30 yet. Don't pick on me. We just met.” Dick pouted. “What kind of first impression is that?”

“A honest one?” Danny said with a grin.

“He tried to threaten me with his Playlist.” Tim added. Texting away to Dick since Danny was in front of them. You have some explaining to do. He sent Dick.

Don't tell Bruce. Is what dick sent back. Tim side eyed him.

“Intimidate actually.” Danny corrected. “Got to make sure the weird rich guy who bribes kids doesn't try anything.”

“You still got in my car!” Tim pointed out with a bit of frustration.

“I can take care of myself.” Danny shrugged again. Turning to check out the test menu in front of them. Tim saw Dick mouth wow. He texted to Dick, he's so going to be kidnapped again. For a robin meal.

“Order whatever you like Danny. “ Dick said. “Don't worry about the price.”

“You sure?”

“Yes.” Tim answered sincerely. Danny ordered a meal off the test menu and then one off the standard. Dick got his usual gut bomb, and Tim decided to go a little lighter and went for the vegetarian burger. The three made their way to a back corner table that the birds tended to gravitate too. Gives them good sight lines off the entire place. Danny tossed his back pack into the booth with Dick. And but chose to sit next to Tim in his booth. Even taking the inner side. Which just frustrated Tim even more. Which he knew Dick noticed and made him more annoyed. Tim was already mentally writing the rant he was going to bestow on Selina and Jason for Danny's lack of self preservation skills, never mind the rest of the bullshit.

Danny had a pen in hand as he ate his first sandwich, the test meal, taking great care to fill it out neatly while chewing the food slowly. Dick grinning stupidly at him while he did so. Tim had plugged in his laptop and began at least working on his reports while he ate and answered easy emails. Tim tuned out both of them when Dick started asking about his critique. Till he picked up a tone of panic.

“What are you doing?” Tim asks once he has taken in that Dick and Danny both have their hands on the fry box that has a literal bite taken out of it.

“Eating.” Danny answered like they were the crazy ones.

“There is no reason to eat the garbage. If you’re still hungry I will buy as many meals as you want to not eat this.” Dick bargained with the teenager.

“But that's such a waste, it has like all the grease and seasoning on it.”

“It's trash.” Tim said, staring and trying to just comprehend the argument happening.

“It's only trash if it makes it to the can.”

“No, please, I'm begging you, no.” dick increased his grip on the cardboard and snatched the rest of the kid's tray of trash away from him.

“I don't care what it costs, what do you want to just not.” Tim asked getting up and taking all their trash off the table

“Ugh why does everyone but aunt Pam and Harley freak out about not wasting food.” Danny released the cardboard container, Dick being extra quick to put it with the rest of the trash in Tim's hands. “I guess 3 more meals. I don't care what they are.”

“I bet you don't.” Tim said. “Didn’t realize, I'll eat anything, was literal.” Tim dropped off the trash and got back in line.

Tim realized he was going to need to plan meals better after Danny popped the entire container of sauce in his mouth after his last nugget before he or Dick could stop him with a satisfied grin. Dick looked distraught, but Tim just glared at Danny knowing it was intentional to get a rise out of them.

“How are you alive?” Tim asked before he thought about it. He regretted it immediately.

“I'm dead inside.” Danny said with that same self satisfied grin he did as Schrodinger.

Tim didn’t need to check his phone to know Dick was telling him he walked into that one. “This is Gotham kid, everyone is, you're not special.”

Danny just cackled like one of Harley's hyenas. Dick was trying to hide his grin by drinking his soda.

“So where do you live Danny? We can drop you off at home?” Dick said getting up with Danny's bag in one hand a tray of trash in the other held way above Danny's reach. And to Tim's utter disbelief Danny rattled off the address like it was nothing. He did warn them it was in crime alley and they might get mugged or car jacked.

Dick handed Danny his back pack as they walked back to his car. Danny hoped in The back easily. Dick taking shotgun, arguing with Danny who gets to control the radio. But Dick can't get his phone to connect before Danny’s does and then can't seem to disconnect it. And Danny proceeds to play a mix of rap and heavy metal belting out lyrics Dick doesn't seem to know so he is saved from that torture but he tries to dance along. It wasn’t long till they were parked in front of the apartment building that Danny indicated was where they all lived. The siren’s hideout. That they had been trying to find for months. Croc was outside when they pulled up. Eyeing them and the car as Danny thanked them for the ride, food, and school problems. Tim responded on auto pilot. Waving bye to Danny from where he had climbed Croc to do so as they drove off. Tim brought the car to a parking spot once they were in a safer neighborhood. He sat his head against the steering wheel and screamed. White knuckling the wheel and head banging without hitting the steering wheel.

“Yeah.” Dick said from the passenger seat. The car was blissfully silent for a whole minute, before Tim turned and started wailing on dick as he tried to protect his head and catch Tim's fists.

“You fucking asshole!”

Chapter Text

Danny stood on the building edge walking it with his arms out like a tight wire singing bullet by Hollywood Undead.

“I think you might be more fucked up than me. And that’s both impressive and disturbing.” Hood said just watching the little brat. “Thank you for not doing that when Nightwing was with us. He’d have a breakdown and I'm not up for dealing with that.”

Danny snorted at him for that. “He doesn’t handle raising the dead details.”

“Shame, his humor would line up so well otherwise. Wanna head back? Getting late for you.” he could go back out after he got the kid to bed. Jason felt a sudden disturbance, drawing his gun and turning to just catch the tail end of a scene out of his nightmares

“Hey twerp!” Jason watched a glowing ectoblast darker than Danny’s hit him in the head and knock him off the wall. He didn’t take the time to check, he couldn’t see the kid’s body mangled even if they’d get him bounced back, he just couldn’t instead turning all of his attention and guns on the perpetrator and source of his building fury. Eyes burning as green as his anger and firing his guns with ecto blasts he was going to ignore how unexpected and new that was and be thankful for it. To have the giant of a man block them easily with ghost shields. The guy was taller and just as big if not a 20 bigger than him. “Damn you’re stronger than last time. Twerp cleaned you up pretty good.” the ghost with glowing red eyes smirked at him moving closer and taking a swing on him. Jason blocked and rolled out from his reach before the next blow could hit him. “What? not even going to change? Twerp you are a shitty teacher!”

“Ugh! You broke my cat ears!” Danny’s voice came over the roof before the kid did. Holding his almost obliterated headband. And his mask had a chunk burned out of it.

“They looked stupid anyway.'' The man shot a blast at Jason who dodged it but had frozen up at Danny’s carefree voice, then he finally felt something besides his own blinding fury. Danny was happy/annoyed/excited/annoyed/annoyed/asshole/family/love. It left him vulnerable enough to take a hit from the follow up blast knocking him on his back. Then he felt the other ghosts speak. idiot/love/safe/safe/pathetic/bored/bored/amused/family/family/safe. “I thought since you were helping him out he’d be more of a challenge this time. Still jumpy as an alley cat. Unlike you despite the stupid outfit.” Jason just laid there feeling and taking in everything and processing.

“It’s not stupid!”

“Fucking furry.”

“Quit picking on my uncle! And you are going to fix these!”

“No, I don't think I am.” the guy snorted. He stepped over Jason’s body. “And man, you are collecting so much fraid if I didn’t know any better I’d say you had a family obsession.” Jason lunged towards the guy as he reached out to grab Danny, pulling him into a tight hug. Almost swallowing the kid in his bulging arms. “Glad you’re still half alive, twerp.”

Danny was hugging the guy who shot him in the head back just as hard. His core projecting safe/happy/family/together/love/happy/happy.

“What the fuck?” Jason barely articulated verbally half on the ground still guns pointed at the unknown threat.

“Damn he’s slower on the uptake this time around too.” the being turned to him laughing walking up with Danny still in his arm. “You want a hand there ghostling? Or you wanna just stay on the ground?”

“He’s uncle Hood.”

“I’m not calling someone younger than me Uncle.” Hood got a sharp toothy smirk directed to him. “How about little brother.”

“He already has a horde as big as Pariah’s army of siblings. I don’t think he wants more.” Danny responded with a snort.

“Holy shit, are you Dan?”

“Maybe I hit you harder than I thought.” Dan put his hand out for Jason to grab, who threw his fist still clutching his pistol into it. And let him be pulled to his feet.

“You’re fucking huge!” is all Jason could say looking between the tiny little child held by this behemoth. His hand was still held by the guy. “What kind of steroids did you eat to go from,” he gestured to Danny, “to that.” he pointed at Dan.

Danny cringed. But Dan just smirked and flashed his red eyes. “Another ghost's core.”

“You don’t make new friends or fraid Dan with introductions like this.” Danny pouted at him smacking him in the head. Jason just stared flabbergasted at what the hell he was missing in this conversation and sequence of events.

“Meh, if you idiots can get over me trying to give you my same trauma, I think others can get over their hang ups if they are worth two shits. You like it in this shithole?”

“Yeah! You wanna meet the whole family?”

“Probably already met them once before.” Dan said with a shrug. “But sure. Might be nice to names and faces together. You are coming along too tin can. You are not patrolling anymore tonight. Clocky’s orders.”

“I guess. You really are Dan? Danny’s aged up clone or something.”

“Or something.” Dan gave him another amused evil looking as fuck smile. amusement/mischief/fun/love/family projecting loudly from him.

embarrassment/pouting/annoyed/happy/happy/no/bad/happy/family coming from Danny along with a verbal whine and “Dooooooooooooonnnnn’t”

“Calm down twerp. Let’s go meet the family. And I'll tell ya where Ellie is.” The two started moving towards the roof edge. The big guy walked right off it like it was nothing, landing with no issue on the ground and walking on the street back towards the siren’s place. Like he already knew the way. Jason holstered his pistols and took off after them.

“Get back up on the roof. Do you not understand stealth either?”

“It’s fine. If it wasn’t the geezer wouldn’t have let me pop in. let’s go little man don’t make me drag you home in a headlock.”

“Who the fuck you calling little? Do you not see me? I’m a fucking fridge!”

“No, you are a Dorito. Jack’s a fridge. And this is a string bean.” and Jason was not prepared for Danny to be swung around like a pool noodle by his arm. Who was squawking at the indignity of it all.

“The fuck are you doing?”

“Taking the twerp and twerper home. Chop chop or you get the headlock.” Jason ran to catch up jumping and rolling to his feet from the roof to the road to catch up.

“Like to see you try.” Jason snarled at him.

“Oh you fucked up.” is all Danny said before he was dropped to his feet and Dan grappled with Hood till he had him in a headlock and was dragging him down the street. With Danny latched to his back. Both ignoring his hissing insults and arguments even when he started smoking. He finally got himself loose when they made it to the front door, turning into smoke before reforming again solid with only a small stumble.

“Damn that’s nice and new. I like it.”

“When did you get that?” Danny asked

“Very new.” Jason replied, straightening out his clothes. There was a huge scuff mark with paint missing on the top of his helmet when he took it off inside the door once it was shut, With curses leaving him. “When you were out of it.”

“Mom, we're home!” Danny shouted leading Dan into the kitchen. “You want some water Jason? Or ecto cooler? You got really stressed for a minute.”

“Yeah no shit! I saw some fuck face shoot you in the head.”

“What?” Selina asked, walking in at the worst timing of that conversation.

“I barely hit him. And sweet, our mom is a badass.” Dan fist pump.

“She injured you huh?” Danny asked unamused.

“Hell yeah. With my own blood. And her bare fucking hands.”

“Damn, who is the beefcake you boys brought home?” Harley asked, coming in with Ivy while Selina was just absorbing the conversation looking to Jason for some kind of context that was derailed with Harley's interruption.

“This is my big brother Dan.” Danny answered for her. Digging ice cream and bowls out of the freezer and cabinets.

“I want that ecto cooler. And fuck it. Wine night.” Jason finally answered Danny and plopped down in a chair at the table.

“Sweet night!” Harley cheered.

“I’ll get the wine.” Pam said with a head shake heading for their stash. Her vines getting out the wine glasses for her.

“Nice to meet you mom when we aren’t trying to kill each other.” Dan smiled and went in for a hug picking her up off the ground a bit.

“We talked about poor introductions Dan!” his laughter shook Selina as it rumbled through his chest into her whole body. But the weird direction of the conversation didn’t stop Selina from hugging him back tight.

“It’s nice to finally meet you.” she said with a genuine smile.

“I wanna hear the story behind that introduction. Sounds fun.” Harley said. As the group settled in at the table.

“No you …..”

“Sure. I'm from a collapsed apocalyptic future timeline. I was displaced, when I got trapped in the past in a thermos and locked in the long now.”

“Don’t.” Danny glared at Dan.

“Damn were you on different sides of a crazy battle or something? Nuclear holocaust style war or something?” Harley asked when Pam came back pouring everyone but Danny a glass of wine. Harley dumped her glass of wine into her bowl of ice cream. Danny froze the bowl of ice cream he handed Dan while glaring the man down.

“Or something.”

“What did Jazz tell you! Something about self sabotaging because of guilt instead of…”

“Do not lecture me, twerp! With your self sacrificing bull…”

“I’ll call Jazz!”

Dan narrowed his eyes at Danny. “You won’t. You risk the asshole catching wind.”

“Try me. I am a self sacrificing asshole.” Danny glared back at his older brother.

Jason dumped his entire ecto cooler into his wine. Holding his head. “How about for all our sanity. You don’t elaborate right now. And Harley don’t fucking ask.”

“Party-pooper.”

“Harley, Danny doesn’t need to be upset when he should be settling down for bed.” Ivy scolded.

Selina was just quietly looking at her second son. Taking him in. “Do we need to be feeding Danny more?” When in doubt redirecting Danny works hopefully it works on his older brother.

Dan gives her a smirk. He knows what she is doing but he’ll play along. “I don’t think he’s going to get as big as me even if he eats an entire burger joint a day. But we don’t know for sure how he or Ellie will look grown. Geezer can’t get a dial in on their futures anymore. And mine is fading.”

“What!!!! That’s not fair.”

“Sorry twerp. But my first meals did more for my build than genes did.” Dan seemed to take in Selina’s build. “Yeah way more, too bad. You are always going to be my micromini. Bet.”

“Ugh.” Danny wilted unto the table. But phased off most of his costume leaving him in his under suit. He used his powers to carry his clothes to the laundry room.

Dan held out his arms to beacon Danny into them. Which Danny did snuggling up in his lap with his own bowl of ice cream. Jason took in the mirroring emotions and matched them with his own. happy/safe/family/love. “Man you are such a baby too.” Dan teased Jason.

“You are barely older than us.” Danny mumbled.

“Still older!” Dan gloated.

“You allowed to stick around?” Danny asked.

“Nope. checking in on you. I was getting cranky. Geezer found the right time I could pop in low risk of compromising whatever he is doing. Now that I know he’s not full of absolute shit and you are actually ok unlike fucking last time.” Danny shrunk up in his lap. Dan just ruffled his hair roughly. “I’ll stick around till you’re asleep, then i’m going to go check on Jazz myself, and give the asshole a good scare”

“Who is the asshole?” Selina and Jason both asked in unison.

“I was told I can't divulge that information at the moment. You’ll meet him when the time comes.”

“Ew he’s going to show up here?” Danny groaned.

“He’s a cockroach, we’re stuck with him for the foreseeable future.” Dan groaned and mumbled under his breath about not being allowed to him end him again.

“I’ll text Val and give her a warning.” Danny said, pulling his phone out of his leg to do so. His eyelids are getting heavy.

“Eh she wants a showy fight to boost her image I’m game. After I check in with Jazz and pummel the fruitloop she can have a go. I also have news for you on the brat and dog.”

“Really!” Danny perked up.

“Please, I would like to know about my unknown daughter.”

“Don’t you mean granddaughter mom?” Dan snarked at her. Harley laughed but the 3 other adults gave him unimpressed looks.

“I think you guys just aren’t telling us about this nut job so we don’t kill him.” Jason sassed.

“Yes.” Danny answered. “I wouldn’t stop you but geezer says it’s not good for the timeline.” Dan said over top of him.

“Noted.” Jason said with a frown.

“Anyway, Walker is being an overzealous ass. Brat’s in lockdown. And to counter her powers to just walk out he’s got Cujo in what’s he’s dubbing the pound with Wulf.”

“Excuse me!” Danny said, turning to look up at Dan, eyes glowing green. And Jason was hit hard but the sudden swing into anger bordering on rage. “He has gone way too far with that! He doesn’t get to degrade Wulf like that!”

“I’ll be sure to give him a good beat down for you when I go help her with a prison break. I’ll have our baby brat back here just before thanksgiving.”

“That’s in a couple of weeks?” Pam noted.

“Why so long out?” Selina asked.

“I don’t know. The geezer gives me the time lines. I was told to break her out and send her to the twerp. She’s talked about wanting to fight a Thanksgiving turkey for forever. Like I assume it’s for that.”

“Oooohhh she is going to be disappointed.” Danny mumbled stuffing his spoon in his mouth. “We haven’t had any food reanimate here. It’s awesome.”

“Wait, what? Seriously?” Dan asked, shocked. “How?”

“We have a separate fridge for the ectoplasma and don’t cook a lot of meat.” Selina said.

“Ew you went veg head like Sam? Tucks gonna be so disappointed twerp.”

“Not completely vegetarian food is food, if it doesn’t try and kill me back better.”

“Whatever, finish your snack. I’ll put ya to bed and hang out till you are out.” Dan said. Danny answered by slowing his bites till Dan started force feeding him faster. Once Danny finished eating it turned into a game of sabotage of Dan eating his own with Harley's help.

Jason was just enjoying his drink of wine and ecto, watching and matching the current behavior and emotions, to just a little while ago. Dan had obviously pulled back on the power of his shots on Danny but it was enough to nuke his tech and burn part of his costume. On top of all the concerning things being said by both of them. Finally Dan got out of his chair and pulled Danny with him hanging him by his ankle passing him around the table for hugs goodnight before heading up the stairs. Jason was going to start fully relaxing when he noticed Dan still standing at the bottom of the stairs before turning back to them without a Danny to be seen.

“You can make copies of yourself too?” Harley asked.

“Twerp can make copies? Took the little bitch long enough. They any good?”

“One. And we can't tell a difference in them.” Selina stated.

“Eh, better than nothing. Maybe he'll catch up eventually. “ Dan shrugged, coming back to sit at the table. “I'll answer questions, I know the nosey squad logo. It's eating at him.” He pointed at Jason with a sharp toothy grin.

“He can hear us.” Jason rolled his eyes taking a swig of his drink like a beer much to Selina and Pam's eye rolls.

“He can't, brought a little toy I borrowed.” Dan said. “So shoot.”

“How much are we gonna hate it?” Jason asked

“We're Thinking you four take it better than dad. And if dad takes it to the extreme, we'll I get to work all my complicated feelings on him again. Aaaaannnnd maybe this time I have some sort of sentimental feelings for him I don't kill him this time.”

“You were the cause of the apocalypse.” Jason groaned.

“OH no, the death of everyone Danny and therefore me at the time loved and cared about was the cause.” Dan corrected. “Asshole experimenting on a struggling Danny he rigged to get custody of made me after I gave him the same treatment and devoured him.” Dan grinned toothly “and I was a one ghost apocalypse in my madness and grief.”

“What did he do to Danny?” Selina asked.

“Ripped out my humanity. In my ghostly rage I killed my human Danny. Ripped out the assholes not sure I'd call it humanity but whatever ate his ghost half and killed him. His ghost half wasn't very stable either so combined not the mentally stabilist.”

“Mentally stable is overrated anyway.” Harley assured him with a pat on the back. Which made him chuckle.

“So how did you end up here?” Selina asked.

“Well my timeline wasn't stable. It had a very low probability of happening. So I went into the gz broke into the ancient of times haunt, which was a setup in hindsight, the bastard. And came back here to force my timeline.”

“You were going to kill your friends and family to ensure your existence.” Pam stated bluntly..

“Bingo, only as soon as the twerp spotted me my timeline ceased. Not that either of us knew it. But as the twerp and brat like to point out it was a very fruitloop moment on my end. Grand plans without the full think through.” Dan shrugged. “It got Gramps what he wanted though, whether he'll admit it or not.”

“Which is what?” Jason asked, staring down his older? Younger brother… yeah he needed to rethink that or think less of it.

“All his pieces on the board.” Dan snorted, arms crossed over his chest. “You think twerp’s the king by accident? Gramps set him up for it. Kid got new powers I will never have from our fight. Hell his core developed completely differently. Unlike our fire cores.” He gestured between himself and Jason. “I got my ass handed to me by my 10 year younger self.”

“Is he using all of you?” Selina asked with a hint of venom.

“I mean I guess? He kind of has to use everybody? He's in charge of all time in all realities. When your job is to keep existence. Then you do what you gotta do. If it puts your favorite kid on the throne and turns most of them into ancients he doesn't have to worry about ending up alone. I can't fault the guy for it. I fault him for making me his errand boy as punishment though.”

“You really think it’s for the greater good for him to have all the power houses behind him?” Jason asked skeptically.

“Sadly yeah. He cares about all of us a lot. But he takes his job very seriously. The twerp goes through the nightmare realm in life so much only because it has to happen. If it didn’t cw would have set the kids up in a cushy life free of any real Danger. He bends rules and makes some sacrifices where he can.” Dan said earnestly. “ It’s why I exist at all. He still thought of me as his son. So wouldn’t let me fade. He confronted the asshole to get me some new humanity. Did he nerf me and keep me on probation yes, but he broke the rules to let me exist and have a future.”

“Then why were the guys in white allowed to get their hands on Danny?” Ivy asked with all seriousness a bit of heat.

“I asked him that same question after he made me leave the twerp after we got him out. Had to leave him with his friends and the asshole in pieces.” Dan’s hair moved angrily about like fire. Eyes red. And Jason could feel the anger radiate off him. “Because the good timeline was where his biofamily all knew him and were helping take down the GIW. And the one where life ends started with all signs showing he never left amity. He would have stayed and died there and the multiverse with him. But he can’t be seen by time anymore. So Gramps had to infer how to get Danny to his bio family. Danny had to be outed and sent packing. Only Jack knew who and where they were in his life.” Dan let out a huff of a pained annoyed growl. “And I hate admitting it, but he was fucking right again. Still a lot of splits, but a lot less end in complete annihilation. And,” Dan scoffed, getting a lopsided smile. “Twerps happy. Like actually happy. Not just enjoying a happy moment. He … I never saw him like that in amity. It’s probably what helped me move on from my resentment of him to seeing him as my little brother when he’d visit me in time out. Because of everything I am both a protector spirit and a vengeful one, that melded. And that means I'm extremely protective over my new fraid and will protect what is mine with my afterlife.”

“Ya lost your first fraid right?” Harley asked. “Did Danny’s adoptive parents accept you?”

“I never had to face that question. They died before I'd ever have a chance to suffer what he did. My loss was an accident. His was betrayal and abandonment. Him!” Dan shouted, throwing out an arm to gesture to Danny’s bedroom. “They abandoned him! Of all people! He has never abandoned anyone. Even when they deserve it. Not even me! Who tried to kill everyone we care about. Not skulker who tries to hunt him and skin him constantly. Not his friends when they’ve tried to kill him or do. Or even the brat who tried to kill him. Not even that fucking cockroach!” Dan closed his eyes clenching his fists on the table trying to rein in his anger a bit with jazz meditation instructions. “They aren’t my parents anymore. And I'm happy I never got to spend time around after I got better. Or I'd be trying to kill them again. Which is against my probation.”

“Probation really stops you from committing murder? That sounds so weak kitten.” Selina teased.

Dan scrunched up his nose. “Ew no, I am not a furry. Leave me out of that. And it’s not the probation, so much as time out sucks when all you see is a never ending parade of the brat pack’s disappointed faces. Like the annoying kind, the "I'm not mad i’m disappointed in you son, with platitudes of we know you can do better, what tools do you feel you need to succeed,” he mocked jazz’s line. “ only i’m a decade or more older than all of them.”

“Oh that would be my worst nightmare. Totally.” Jason rolled his eyes.

“You avoid our dad to avoid that kinda look and talk you hypocritical ass.” Dan argued. “You can’t mock me for it punk ass bitch.”

“I do not!” Jason seethed back, smoking at the bitch please look Dan gave him with the one raised brow and puckered lips pinched flat.

“You fit in well amoungst your siblings.” Ivy teased.

“He the match the fuel or toss?” Harley asked with a cackle.

“Ugh, kids out. That’s my que. I gotta go. Nice to meet everyone in a family setting. I think I'll be seeing you in the nearer future.” they got a so-so hand motion as Dan got up the rest of the table following suit to give out hugs and goodbyes. Which Dan forced on Jason last when he went for a handshake. “Oh and you cried real sobbing tears holding dad’s body after I killed him. So don’t act like you don’t give a shit about him to me baby brother.” a green portal opened behind Dan so he could shove an angry smoking Jason away from him and step back with a laugh as it closed the second he was through.

“Oh I am telling B his baby boy still loves him.” Harley singsonged.

“I will burn all your sex toys.” Jason countered pointing an angry finger at her. “And theirs,” he added.

“Excuse you?” Selina and Pam both said putting hands on their hips and leveling glares at him.

“Collateral damage. Keep her mouth shut. And yours.”

“I have that recorded for blackmail later.” Harley said. “Which means i got time to hide my stash before I choose to use it.” Harley dodged Jason going to tackle her Ivy and Selina getting in the rough play fighting

Chapter Text

“You seem to be in much better health then we last saw you.” Robin said when Schrodinger came into view in front of them but a bit of a distance.

“Yeah, thanks.” Schrodinger gave a lopsided smile but didn't move closer.

“We’re glad. Sorry we upset you.” Superboy said moving a little closer till Damian tsked at him.

“It's fine.” Schrodinger said with a shrug but not really moving closer.

“It is most obviously not. And I apologize for my assumptions and your discomfort. I would understand if you no longer feel confident in our current arrangement, but if you dain to allow us to continue as we were…”

“You’re allowed to hang out with me still?” Schrodinger asked in a small voice, legs curling towards his chest.

“Of course?” Robin replied. “Is there a reason you would believe things changed on our end?”

“Your dad hates me.”

“you believed that to be true prior to this incident.”

“I mean like personally. Not just my existence is offensive.”

“How can someone's existence be offensive?” Superboy asked with his tilted.

“I don't know. You'd have to ask a racist or bigot to explain it to you.” Schrodinger answered.

Robin tried to not visibly bristle at the insinuation. “I thought Justice League dark had dispelled that misunderstanding.”

“OH they disSPELLed it alright.” Danny snickered at Robin's scowl. “that they personally didn't know anything about what has been going on with the league and they didn't know why the league never helped us.”

“Did Constantine nor Zatanna make a case for their compatriots?” Robin asked.

“Like what?”

“Like Deadman's participation in the league?” Robin and Superboy took in Schrodinger's scowl at that.

“My dad is an alien, and they said you were an inter-dimensional person which makes you a kind of alien right? Or half, it makes sense that'd he'd help you.”

“He didn't though. You even said your mom is why you can still come hang out with me. Your dad doesn't like me either.”

“He doesn't like us committing crimes.” Superboy defended.

“And my existence is criminal ergo not a stretch. He hates me.” Schrodinger seemed to float backwards away from them.

“That's not…”

“Batman's concerns are with safety not criminality. Even so my fathers opinion of my associations weigh little against my personal metrics.” Robin tried to salvage his case.

“I don't want to get you guys in trouble.” Schrodinger admitted.

“But we have permission. We wouldn’t get in trouble?” Superboy asked, confused.

“Are you sure?”

“Yes we are sure, what makes you believe permission would have been rescinded after you assisted red Robin with his injuries?” Robin asked, entirely confused with Schrodinger line of logic.

“Batman talked to Hood, made it sound like me accompanying you wouldn’t be appreciated. I thought it was rude to just ghost you guys, I was coming to say bye and thank you for hanging out with me. Mom said you came by once.”

“Is that why Hood and the sirens refused all communication during halloween? That was unlike them even when they were in dispute with us due to the risks.”

“Maybe? I asked to go trick or treating and they said we could all go together. So that could be why?” the kitty boy answered. But was now staying in one place again.

“They more likely agreed because they were showing their displeasure with Batman.” Robin cleared for him. “Though regardless of Batman's talk with Hood, we have not been updated to the contrary.”

“We still want to hang out if you want to.” Superboy said moving closer to Schrodinger again this time he didn’t run instead seemed to mull over something tugging at his hair.

“If, um my little sister wanted to hang with us would that be ok too?” Schrodinger asked. Robin, feeling as Jon was able to move closer, took his time to close the distance between their group.

“Is your sister present?” Robin asked.

Danny shook his head no. “but i got told she’s getting a prison break close to thanksgiving so she can be home for the holiday!” the catboy had much more relaxed posture and his eyes were glowing a bit. “It’ll be the best thanksgiving ever with her here! We are having turkey and ham and a turkducken, and a tofurkey. And a bunch of sides, and all my uncles are coming and are going to get to meet her and it’ll be her first thanksgiving and our together.”

“Did she not partake in this holiday with your old family?” Damian asked.

Danny shook his head no again. “No, I was scared my parents would destroy her or vivisect her.”

“What’s vivisect?” Jon asked while Robin stared in shock at Schrodinger for a minute hitting his com with oracle with text to patch in his father along with getting a recording for the batcomputer.

“Vivisection is a type of scientific dissection where the subject is still alive and cognitive. Like the frog in biology we got wavers for only those creatures were at least deceased.” Robin answered Superboy barely containing his growing anger at the thought.

“That sounds really painful and inhumane.” Jon said, his discomfort visibly grew the more he thought about it.

“It is.” Danny answered matter of factly. “They don’t consider it inhumane though cause we aren’t human.”

Superboy fell out of the sky at the statement. Unprepared besides hitting the roof he tumbled forward to catch himself. Robin was white knuckling his katana tucked behind his cape. “They did that to you?” both boys asked in unison, one’s voice seething in anger and the other in shock.

“No,” the boys started to relax. “The guys in white did.” the tension jumped even more. Damian heard the morse style code from Oracle for him to know she heard it. “Just before I came to live here. But they talked about wanting to do it to a ghost if they caught one a lot. They did it to some weaker types of ghost when I was kid.”

“We need to move locations, we have been here chatting for too long.” Robin said both for his two patrol partners and oracle. “ There is a safe house nearby. We will move there. It’s just a few blocks.”

“I’ll fly us.” Superboy said, grabbing Robin’s scruff and then Schrodinger arm. Flying to where Robin directed him. Robin quickly turned off the alarms and security features to allow the 3 to move inside.

Once the three were settled Robin went back to his interrogation. “Is that the memory you relived with your ptsd attack?” Robin asked bluntly, looking more carefully at what little exposed skin Schrodinger had to examine. Superboy got between Robin and Schrodinger.

“Robin no. his heart beat keeps stuttering.” Jon scolded.

“I apologize, that was…”

“Yeah it was. I don’t want to like talk about it though.” Schrodinger ducked his head.

“That is fine. Just confirmation is helpful. The sirens and hood know of this?”

“Yeah my whole family and uncle Connie and his friends.”

“Can I ask why you did not share that information with us sooner?” Robin asked. “That is very pertinent information to your case.”

“I didn’t think it mattered. It’s not like it was illegal.”

“I do not care about the legalities. Are… Do you still have sustained damages? Have you healed completely?”

“I was mostly healed before I came here. It took like a month for the bulk to heal up. Once we got my ribs back in place and still enough to quit puncturing my lungs it went pretty fast with my friends medical supplies we had stashed.” Schrodinger shrugged. “I mean can’t the justice league just ask for the studies from the GIW? It’s not like it’s not all recorded. That’s how mom found out.”

“The sirens have a recording of this travesty?” Robin asked.

“Yeah, Nightwing knows about the recording too.” Schrodinger shifted from foot to foot looking towards the window. “You are really angry. And he’s upset.” Danny pointed to Superboy.

“I am beyond angry. I would describe the emotion as rage on your behalf.” Damian spoke up. “And this injustice will not stand. It will be rather difficult to adhere to fathers rules should we face you assailants.”

“How did you get away? If the justice league didn’t save you?” Superboy asked, looking rather pale now that Robin took his focus from Schrodinger to Jon.

“My friends, siblings, and my most annoying enemy rescued me. And then my friends rescued me after I was stable from the fruitloop.” Schrodinger stared down Superboy. “My teacher called the league when I was missing. Made missing person reports to the police, and cps. My parents didn’t notice I was gone. Our town doesn’t get help. We don’t get rescued. Nobody cares about us. The league doesn’t care about us.”

“We do.” Robin said sharply. “When we find out who ignored your cries for help, I will personally ensure they face punishment for their transgressions.”

“Hood said he told you guys about my wail.” Danny said after a long and uncomfortable pause.

“He did.” Jon nodded with Robin’s verbal response.

“There is a claim Superman can hear everyone on the earth no matter where they are.” Schrodinger wasn’t looking at them anymore, just staring at the floor.

“That’s true.” Jon said brows furrowed in thought at that. “He doesn’t always catch everything that is said though.” Jon tried to reason. Cause he understood what that meant for his new friend. His dad wouldn’t just ignore someone in need like that…

“So he can hear everyone except my town? Could hear everyone and everything except me begging and crying for help? Couldn’t hear me take out a wall while they forced a muzzle on my face?” Schrodinger's face seems to be engulfed in shadows much like Batman utilized to terrorize the villains of Gotham. “Does that sound right? Or does it sound like he ignored me cause I’m not a person. And nothing done to me is illegal?”

“The government and many villains know of Superman’s powers and have ways of neutralizing it.” Robin countered. But he saw how frozen Jon was at the implications of his words. “Batman utilizes it even in the batcave and our own home.”

“Why would Batman use something to stop his team mate from using his powers?” Danny asked head now up looking at Robin confused.

“Because eavesdropping is rude and Superman is nosey.” Robin answered honestly. “But it is a possible explanation. Hood uses this technology also. It’s built into his helmet. And in some of his main headquarters. I also believe the sirens utilize it. Red Robin oracle and Batman are running down one possibility for a mole in the league. Superman was thought to be on the lowest probability of possible suspects. But if you wish i will look into investigating him myself to ensure that fact.”

“You’re not supposed to share case information like that Robin.” Jon questioned.

“You are correct, normally I am not. But Schrodinger requires some sort of reassurance we are doing something and not just sitting idly by waiting for the situation to blow over or be forgotten.” Robin squared his shoulders. “I will not allow this case to be pushed to the wayside for others.”

“You don’t have to do that, I don't want to pit you guys against your parents…what if…”

“You deserve justice, Schrodinger. And that is the very least you deserve for the crimes committed against you legalities aside.” Robin made sure to cut off his budding protest. “You will have my support regardless of where this investigation lie.”

Schrodinger snorted. “Sounds like you were headed into a full lord of the rings speal there Robin.”

“What do you mean?” Robin asked.

“You will have my sword!” Superboy mimicked, pulling Robin’s arm free, his sword clutched in his hand.

“And my bo!” Schrodinger said excitedly, giggling pulling out his staff and extending it.

“Aw i don’t have an axe…” Superboy pouted. “But I have my fists!” he raised his fists high.

“Is this some sort of oath swearing ritual?” Robin asked, a quisitive brow raised under his mask.

“Yeah..” the other two boys answered.

Robin gave a nod to mark his understanding. “Then let us complete it.” Robin raised his free hand to draw across the blade of his sword.

“Not like that!” the other toys boys shouted, both rushing to grab his hands.

“It’s a movie reference my dude.”

“It’s also a book.” Jon added.

“Then we are not making an oath? We are mocking one?” Robin asked for clarification.

“You’d actually do that?” Schrodinger asked softly.

“Of course.” Robin answered steadfastly he was not prepared though to have Schrodinger wrapped around him in a tight hug around his waist. Robin tensed sharply at the action. Arms raising muscles tightening as he resisted the urge to shove Schrodinger away.

“Thanks Robin” Schrodinger said into his chest. His voice was wet with emotion.

“You are welcome however thi…”

“Group hug!” Superboy shouted before he tackled both boys and lifted them off the ground from the side without the sword.

“S unnecessary. Superboy control yourself and release us.” Robin said with a deep frown Jon was going to call a pout his face squished next to Damian’s.

“Hey Schrodinger, give me my camera’s back.” Oracle said into Robin’s com.

“Ok.” Schrodinger said, confused. Superboy tilted his and Robin's head. “Do not!” Robin protested his scowl deepening.

“Thank you kitten.” oracle singsonged before muting her end of the coms again.

“I will have my revenge.”

“For what?” The two younger boys asked innocently. Jon looked at him eye level and the catboy staring up at him with seemingly too large of eyes.

“Would you both release me this instant.”

“Ok.” Both boys parroted and let Robin go, Danny taking a step back and Jon floating to the edge of grabbing range.

“Let us discuss your sister, you said she was in prison, is this prison in the control of the GIW?” Robin asked.

Schrodinger’s eyes turned a bright glowing green and his teeth sharpened and protruded out from his mouth, even multiple layers if Robin could guess. “No, if she was, I'd have leveled their lab she was held in. or our big brother would have.” Schrodinger seemed to morph back to his more common form Robin was used to. “No she’s in the gz. My great gran…” Schrodinger frowned, his shoulders dropping more as the silence grew.

“Is something wrong? Do you not want to talk about it?” Superboy asked.

“No i was just… the prison is a ghost called walker’s haunt. He’s my adoptive mom’s grandpa.” Schrodinger's brow wrinkled more as he pouted. “She disowned me. And wanted to get rid of me. I don’t know if he’s still my great grandpa.” Schrodinger was quiet for a bit before his pout turned to a scowl and head shake. getting Superboy to look at Damian before paying attention to their friend again. “Doesn’t matter right now, cause I'm mad at him. He degraded a friend of ours. And I will have my revenge for Wulf. A prison riot is gonna be nothing compared to what i’m gonna do when I go back.” his eyes flashed green for a moment before they settled back to his normal white lens. Then he was genuinely smiling. “But our older brother is gonna break her out, so she can come home with cujo.”

“Do you know why she was imprisoned? Will there be consequences to her escape?”

“To try and find me. They thought they could force me to come for her, or force her to give up my location. But she got my stubbornness, and her moms insanity, she’d crack walker first. Bullet has more fortitude he’d be fine. Walker is obsessed with rules, his in particular, but I was working on getting him on board with the councils, to be like a real prison for real rule breakers. Not his b.s. Power tripping. He thinks he can force either of us is going be a bad time for him.” Schrodinger bobbed his head side to side like he was proud of this and his sister.

“Does she have all the same powers as you?” Superboy asked. He knew Kon had the same powers but they were weaker than his dads.

“No, we all have the same base powers of like all ghosts, but some ghosts get new skills that match their personalities or based on their ghost parents teaching them theirs.” Danny answered.

“Would base powers be what deadman has?” Robin asked.

“Yes, but we don’t use all of them he does.” Schrodinger said sharply. “We don’t overshadow without permission or it’s dire. “

“Is that like possession? Like the exorcist?” Jon asked.

“No, possession is different. Demons do that. And it can hurt or kill people. Overshadowing doesn’t hurt people but they don’t have control over their bodies and it’s wrong to do that.” Schrodinger said defensively.

“I know your father didn’t allow you to watch that.” Robin looked to superboy.

“Superboy and your brother let me watch it with them when I was staying with them.” Jon answered. “It was really scary.”

“I’ll keep that in mind for future use.” Robin informed him. “You feel strongly about this. Does his use of that skill make you uncomfortable with him?”

“Just cause you can do something doesn’t mean you should. not only does he use it with no regard for people, he thinks it’s funny to joke about using it to force people to agree with him!" Schrodinger laminated. “It’s not right! I ask all my friends not to do that anymore when they come to earth.”

“That is admirable. But she will not be at any more risk than yourself on patrol or confronting criminals?” Robin asked.

“No,” Schrodinger shook his head. “Her alignment is more chaotic than me though.”

“She was not a hero in your old home?”

“When I needed help and she was in town, sure. She is more free spirited and does what she feels like though.”

“Very well. I will trust your judgment when the time comes.” Robin said.

“I’m excited to meet her.” Superboy added.

“I'm excited she’s gonna meet you guys too.”

Chapter Text

“Dad,” Superboy called out when he got home.

“Welcome back sport.” Clark said, meeting his son in the living room. He caught Lois stirring, but she took a bit more effort to fully wake up in the middle of the night, they had found since these playdates started. “How was your patrol with Damian?”

“Good, Schrodinger joined us again. We kinda just hung out in a safe house for a bit, but did catch a few criminals.” Jon answered.

“Oh? How’s he doing now?” he asked. Kon had given him some notes on that incident. His eldest had given him updates from being called into Gotham. That had Clark pretty worried about their current situation.

“He seemed more like normal after we had our talk. He was really scared when he first joined us.” Jon said looking over to his mom as she came into the living room. “Hi mom!”

“Hi honey.” Lois asked tiredly. “Did you have fun?”

“At the end, yeah.”

“You said he was scared when he first got there tonight,” Clark touched on.

“Yeah,” Jon said softly looking at his feet, his hands pulling at the bottom of his shirt. “Can you hear him?”

“I’m sure i can…” Clark answered, “I haven't been eavesdropping on your outings, just a light check in that you are ok. Why do you ask?”

“Are you a bigot dad?”

“Jon!” Lois said in shock at her son's words.

“Why would you think that son?” Clark asked, a bit disappointed and a bit angry, “did Schrodinger tell you that too?”

“No, he said you probably found his existence offensive. And when I asked how that could work he said I had to ask a bigot or racist.” Jon said softly, not looking up from the floor.

Clark kneeled down in front of his son putting a hand on his shoulder. “Jon, I don't find your new friend’s existence to be offensive. I just don’t like that he is a criminal. Even if he’s doing good things with you and Damian. Teaching you to do crimes like it’s ok behavior is what i don’t like.”

“Is that why you wouldn’t help him?” Jon asked so softly, head still down. Tears started to drip on the floor. “Cause he’s a criminal? Even if he can’t do anything to not be?”

“Jon, hey come here baby.” Lois said holding out her arms for her son why Clark seemed a bit frozen at his son’s words. “Talk to us. We need a little more context. You know your dad helps people no matter if they are criminals or not.”

“I’m sure, maybe it's a misunderstanding. I’m not going to help someone commit even petty crimes, Jon.” Clark said. Which was the wrong thing as Jon covered his face with his hands and started crying harder.

Lois rocked Jon and shushed him. Stroking his head. She gave Clark a ‘really’ look. “Jon baby, what happened?”

“Dad didn’t save Schrodinger. He asked for help and no one came and he got hurt and one of his rogues had to save him. He said dad left him to be vivisected cause his existence is a crime and it was legal for them to do it.”

Lois and Clark froze at Jon’s words. Clark crowded in around his wife and son, wrapping an arm around him. Bringing the other up to his son’s face and trying to get him to look at him. “Jon, Jon, look at me son, please,” he said to his son. Jon tilted his head enough to make eye contact and threw his hair a bit. His eyes still tear filled and red. “Hey, are you… vivisect, that’s the word he used?” Jon nodded his head.

“He yelled for help, but you didn’t save him. But you said you can hear him, the justice league didn’t save him either.” Jon said.

“Jon, I wouldn't have let that happen to anyone if I knew about it. Neither would the league. There is nothing anyone could do that makes that ok.”

“Then why didn’t anyone help him?” Jon asked. “He said they called for help. They called the Justice league.”

“We don’t know, son. We are trying to find out. That’s what Batman has been working on. It’s why Damian and you needed to bond and make a connection with him. We don’t know why we never knew they needed help. But we are going to find out.” Clark said. “You are going to help us help Schrodinger. By being his friend.”

“It’s ok that we are friends? Even though you don’t like him?”

“Son, I don't dislike him. I dislike his behavior. Or the things he tells you that simply are not true or heavily biased. I haven’t met this boy to tell you if I like him or not.” Clark countered. “But it sounds a lot like he is in need of a friend like you.”

“It’s not surprising that this young man has a different world view with what he has gone through, it sounds like.” Lois added for both her boys. “He is probably going to say a lot of things he thinks are true that sound awful about your dad and his friends and some of the other heroes, Jon. It doesn’t mean it’s all true, and it doesn’t mean it’s not either. Schrodinger has been hurt and let down a lot it sounds like. So next time he says something like that, that upsets you, we want you to sit us down one or both of us ok, and tell us what he said that was upsetting and you find challenging to understand compared to what you knew before that. And we can work through it together on what might have happened and what you can do to validate Schrodinger's feelings on the matter without making him think your dad or the rest of justice league agrees with what he suffered through.”

“Ok mom.” Jon hugged his mom tight and Clark made sure to hug both of them too.

“Why don’t you get to bed sport. It’s late. Try to get some rest.” he said to his son.

“Ok dad. Night I love both of you.”

“We love you too.” Lois said. Kissing his forehead and sending him off.

“Night son.” Clark said to him as he headed up to bed.

Lois turned to Clark once he was upstairs and signed at her husband, was that in Batman’s report?

No, Clark signed back, getting changed quickly into his Superman outfit. The report said he had been hurt by the government, not tortured. Not that. He signed to her once he was dressed. “I need to check in with Bruce. He isn’t doing well with the new information.” Superman had zeroed his hearing in on his friend in Gotham just to make sure he was in the cave. If he was lucky the damage will stay to the cave.

“Go,I can hold down the fort here.” Lois said, giving her husband a kiss before he took off for Gotham.

*****************************************

Bruce swung on the training bot again, only to have his fist caught by Superman. “End training sequence, go back to home.” Clark said, carefully lowering Bruce’s arm. He was a little tense himself. Waiting to see if Bruce calmed down or took a swing on him. Which he would carefully redirect till the man calmed down if he needed. “Jon had some upsetting questions when he got home.”

“I’m sure.” Batman said glaring him down before he yanked his hand out Superman’s grip storming away from him with a shoulder check. “Dark, my oldest sons and the siren’s are withholding to much information and evidence on this case.”

“Thanks for not blocking me out.” Clark said the following after Bruce.

“Robin reported that Superboy was highly affected by the information.” Batman said. “I figured you’d show up.”

“Jon was pretty upset.” Superman answered. “And what he said has me really concerned.”

“Are you wanting to pull him from the case?” Batman asked.

“I had before. Not now. This poor kid obviously needs some friends and…”

“We need information that the boys are getting.” Batman said. “We need to find a way to get the video without any of them finding out.”

“I’m sorry, video? What video?” Clark asked, a bit confused.

“Selina’s ward informed robin and superboy there is video of his torture. nightwing has alluded to it as well.”

“Please tell me he didn't show them.”

“He did not. And he believed we had access to it through the GIW. He also told them that he hadn’t told anyone about it. The sirens discovered it by discovering the video evidence.” Batman told him pulling up information on the bat computer once he sat down, of the labs the sirens had hit in Gotham. “ They hit several labs with government contracts, stealing computer data and then wiping them. This one. “ Bruce pulled up more information on it. “They bombed.”

“That seems like a very small bomb.” Clark said going through the report. “Are you sure it was them?”

“Positive. Red Robin first encountered Schrodinger at the scene, and he had been working as a look out and distraction for the sirens.” Batman pulled up another report. “When we were on a league mission and Nightwing filled in for me, some labs in Maryland were hit. Several bombed. Only one had casualties.”

“Same company they bombed before. High probability it was them but why are the attacks so different?”

“Schrodinger wasn’t with them in Maryland. “

“How do you know that?”

“He glitter bombed the batmobile in the heights. With a 30 minute difference between the two devices”

“Oh I'm sure Alfred just loves this kid.” Clark commented.

“Though that incident was difficult to clean up, i do not hold animosity towards the lad for it.” Alfred said, causing the kryptonian to jump at his unexpected presence. “I also spoke to Jason about it. And he has since stopped targeting the vehicles. They have simple methods for removing it, so he didn’t realize he was causing me great difficulty. Only the boys.” Alfred stared down Superman, “I choose not to apply malicious intent to a child's actions without cause.”

“I'm sorry I didn't mean…”

“That's a jab at me more than you, Clark.” Batman tried to save him.

“No, it's for both of you, master Bruce. Master Damian has shared some of Mr. Kent's rather harsh judgments of the lad.” Alfred added passing Batman a cup of tea and one to Superman.

“I don't think badly of the kid, I just think maybe he doesn't have the best influences.” Clark defended. “Thanks for the tea Alfred.”

“You are welcome Mr. Kent. Though we are in disagreement. I believe Ms. Kyle is doing a fine job.” With those parting words Alfred took his leave to work on his own tasks.

“I feel like I've just disappointed him…”

“Join the club.” Bruce sniped back. “The attack that had a casualty, was listed as a pioneering biologist on staff.”

“OH, oh,” Clark's eyes grew wide at the fact. “Do you have anything else about…” Bruce pulled up a full file with background and history on the man. “I can probably use my job as a cover to interview about their death…”

“Appreciate that.”

“Has Oracle not been able to find anything? Still?” Superman asked.

“I have found that these labs use software and hardware similar to Schrodinger, siren’s and now hood.” Babs came in over the computer. Superman almost dropped his teacup. “But I can't get into it from my system.”

“Why do all of you have to do that?” Superman pouted.

“Red robin hasn't had any luck Hacking into their coms or reverse engineering the simple looking headset.” Bruce Informed her.

“Seriously?” Clark asked, a bit shocked. “Red robin is great at that. He's a master of breaking down new tech and redesigning it better. Look at the cloning machine.”

“We don't talk about that.” Babs and Bruce said together.

“So you need to be on site at one of their terminals? Can we get you with one of those sticks?”

“That didn't work on Jason’s servers.” Babs said.

“You tried?” Batman asked, a bit surprised.

“Cass got in. When it didn't work she left with it. He never noticed.”

“That was too high risk.” Batman scolded her.

“Well it's in the past. But I had to check. None of them are hackers. Not even Schrodinger. He has a Friend who is in his hometown.”

“Do we have anything new on that?” Clark asked.

“No.” Batman said. “They are tight lipped on it. Don't push Jon to ask.”

“We have narrowed it to the Midwest. From Wisconsin to Ohio Michigan to Kansas.”

“It can’t be Kansas.” Clark said. “We visit my folks… there is no way I'd have missed something this big that close to my parents. Neither would Kon. Or flash.”

“I'm not quite ready to take it off the list yet based on that.” Babs said apologetically. "We have the names red huntress, Sam which is probably a Samantha and a Tucker. Around his age. Give or take a year. Which just in those states is a huge swath. A young hero by the name red huntress hasn't pinged anything either. Then Dan vlad and jazz unknown ages. And we don't know if those are people here or back where he's from.”

“where he came from.” Batman stated firmly. “Vlad is a unique name for that part of the country.”

“417 hits. None have made calls to the league hotlines. One stuck out though. He's on the league's watch list. Vladimir masters. Ceo and founder of dalvco. and vladco. He's from Wisconsin. Moved to Illinois a few years ago, and is now the mayor of a small town there.”

“Send me what you have and I'll dig into him when I have a moment. I've met the man before. I'll attach it as a possible connection to our case.”

“Do you know why he got flagged?” Clark asked.

“College dropout who though was upper middle class, he had a bunch of questionable corporate takeovers. Becoming a millionaire overnight. He became a billionaire this year. Dalvco is a weapons manufacturer, with exclusive contracts with the U.S. government. Vladco is more like waynecorp. It has a few branches from clean energy research and biomedical research.”

“Could put Ted on that guy.” Clark offered an option to spread the load.

“Teddy is who flagged him first.”

“I'll think about it. Any other Vlad's of note? Closer to Schrodinger in age?”

“college kid in Chicago proper, but I have a cop in Ohio, and an awol soldier in Indiana. Who was reported for what we have as the time frame Schrodinger was hurt. Sent those along too.”

“Thank you.”

“Lois is already doing a piece about missing soldiers here in the states. Where they are reported awol but the families have put in missing persons reports. Does this guy have that?”

“No, he doesn’t have family here. Recent immigrant. Seems he joined up to get citizenship. He did have younger siblings back home around Schrodinger's age.”

“Ohio has a large Russian mafia presence with snakeheading.” Batman narrowed his eyes on the screen. “Let Lois run the lead but don’t lead her with the background. See what she finds on him.”

“Yeah, I can do. What about having flash check around for anything in the midwest about red huntress? Lot’s of small local papers and news stations or local radio in that area are still a thing. He or his nephews can take a few minutes a day to run down some old school paper leads.”

“I will work on bringing flash up to date with some of our information. If we can avoid Constantine being the one to present anything to him.”

“Both John and Barry would probably appreciate that.” Babs snorted.

“Then we all have our tasks.” Batman said with a sigh.

“What about this video evidence of his vivisection?” Clark asked.

“Nightwing doesn’t want it shared for multiple reasons. And the sirens have it under lock and key.” Babs chimed in with a sad tone.

“You knew about this.” Batman stated gruffly.

“I did. Dick didn’t share the video with me. He … he was really affected by it. You can easily make out his face is one of the reasons they won’t share it. The giw seems to have the ability to catch Schrodinger on camera. and forcefully contain him and hurt him. How is heavily documented before they even start the vivisection. It’s part of why they don’t want to share it with us. But… someone else has small chunks of audio files of the experiments and vivisection they did to him. And I have copies of that. And part of the agreement for being given them was to pass them along to you if you asked for them.'' Babs waited patiently after that.

“Who?” Batman asked sharply.

“Cobblepot.”

“The penguin?” Clark asked, confused.

“I was digging and found some video of some of his men in the bombed building. And the sirens have been visiting the iceberg lounge a lot more often. And even his private residence. Trying to break into his system, I got caught by chickadee. She said her boss offered to release what I wanted with those conditions.”

“But why?” Clark looked at Oracle's icon confused.

“He thinks it will affect me.” Bruce grunted to punctuate his comment.

“No, uh, he uh, wanted to make sure you knew the rogues were going to pick up where we failed. Specifically us and the league. Dick warned me why he wouldn't share it.” Babs paused. “B even broken audio, it’s ugh rough as a distance case. this isn’t a faceless case… I can't imagine what the video was like for them to see it. I’d have bet on Jason going into a pit rage. I know I destroyed a few things. I was so angry just from the little I have.”

“Send it.”

Alfred came back and dropped his tray drawing the attention of Batman and Superman. Alfred cupped a hand over his mouth at the small bit of screaming pleas and taunts. The sound of someone calling out an agent A not to contaminate the experiment over a child's muffled cries. Clark released his hold of the back of Bruce’s chair. It crushed under his grip at the sound of Alfred dropping the tray. Bruce’s fists were clenched one into another. The man glaring teeth gritting at the screen. Clark leaned over to turn it off. “Alfred? Are you ok?” Clark asked once he had stopped the recordings. He couldn't imagine a child Jon’s age going through something as horrific sounding as that. The broken bones. The drowning lungs in blood, that man had snapped off a piece of bone to keep as a souvenir. Broken a chunk out of a child begging for his sister and taunting him.

“With all due respect Mr. Kent, I am not ok, nor do I think I should be… i… my apologies master Bruce but…”

“I’ve got it Alfred. Check on the boys in the house. Please.”

“Yes, thank you master Bruce.” With the parting message Alfred turned around and headed back to the mansion Clark bent down to pick up the mess of broken tea cups.

“Bruce…”

“I need some time alone. You should go home to your wife and kids.”

“Bruce…”

“I said go home Clark!”

“Nightwing’s headed to the mansion Clark.” Oracle's voice came in. “and Alfred called into the office. Tam and Lucius know he’s not going in.”

“I do not need you all to manage me!” Bruce snapped trying to force Oracle out of the batcomputer.

“We aren’t. We are trying to help and support you.” Clark argued. “I’ll leave if you want me to Bruce. But I am more than willing to call in a sick day. That was … rough is an understatement.” Clark checked his phone. “Lois called in for her and Jon already. And that’s just from their conversation addressing it happened and Jon’s faith in me coming into question.” Clark looked pained at the batcomputer. “And after that, I can't say I blame him. But if you really want the space I'll go.”

“Go home Clark.” Bruce said after a minute. This time Superman listened. And was disappointed once he was free of the cave the sound blocks were turned on.

Chapter Text

Robin and Superboy sat on the roof hidden in the shadows as Schrodinger showed off his technique for subduing a group threat for them to analysias. Robin had pitched it as a way for Schrodinger to show off for them to get him to eagerly participate.

Schrodinger had set a speaker in an alcove that had good acoustics to make it play louder. It started playing a song that quickly had Superboy worried and robin slightly annoyed at the word play. A disgusting combination of Richard and Jason’s senses of humor on display and used in tandem with his powers to inflict psychological horrors that had many of the men and a few women trying to run away in fear. On par with the sight of some of their family manners. Was it taking a bit of effort on Schrodinger's part, but he was literally singing and choreographing his attacks, jump scares and restraints. To a though disturbing lyrics the tune Damian would call the tune campy. It’s effectiveness was a disgrace.

“Let's get fucked up and di” Danny sang appearing in front of the group out of the darkness of the city with a broken neck spine sticking our the side for added effect and the illusion of blood dripping. Before violently snapping it back in place for the next line“I'm speaking figuratively, of course” fading out just in time for his duplicate to appear hanging from the nearby fire escape. For the next line delivery.. “Like the last time that I committed suicide social suicide.” he disappeared again to pop up immediately at he entrance to the exit inches from the goon who was running to have them barely skid to a stop to avoid hitting the visually rotten corpse of a child who was singing “Yeah, so I'm already dead on the inside” his Dupilcate appeared behind the group in the same visual state of decay like a zombie movie with both singing the line “But I can still pretend with my memories and photographs

I've learned to love the lie”

He smiled tilting his heads at inhumane angles when two goons swung makeshift weapons on both of them just slightly off timing for the next lines “I wanna know what it's like to be awkward and innocent, not belligerent” he shoved the weapon to the ground phasing it slightly into the ground to secure it. Along with both goons shoes, “I wanna know how it feels to be useful and pertinent and have common sense yeah” he appeared directly in front of another goon his duplicate hidden, shoving his hand intangibility into the goons gut and apply enough pressure to sink his shoes into the ground. Grabbing the fist thrown at him like nothing.

One of the goons yelled out calling him a freak of nature.``. Schrodinger turned invisible the same moment his copy popped into view in front of that goon syncing the line , “I'm addicted to words and they're useless,” while holding on to his shoulders shoving this one a bit deeper into the ground about ankle height.

The copy disappearing for him to climb out of the ground and pull another goons legs out from under him “ Let's get fucked up and die

I'm riding hard on the last legs of every lie”

At that point robin had had enough and jumped down to handle taking out several more goons quickly. Superboy restraining them once Robin had them down.

“Aw! I was just getting to the good part.!" Schrodinger complained as the song continued to play. Robin took note of his illusion of his limbs seeming like they had been involved in a mine attack.

“I’ve seen quiet enough. This is a level of dramatics for a Gotham rogue. And wholly unnecessary." Robin used the back of his sword to disarm another goon and send him down for Jon to clean up.

“But it’s fun, and funny.” Schrodinger gave an angry pout. Letting a goon take a wild swing on him, the man phase all the way through him. The force of his swing sends him into the woman trying to sneak up on Schrodinger with a pipe.

“Does Hood allow these dramatics?” Robin asked snootily.

“Sometimes though we usually reenact horror movie scenes. I trip the runners in the clear area like the victims who can’t stay on their feet.”

“What?” Superboy squeaked, taking a blow from one of the female goons in his distraction. Hugging the weapon on instinct to disarm her.

“This level of production is a waste of time.” Robin scolded.

“It’s not a waste if we enjoy it.” Schrodinger pouted, going around behind Superboy to pull his road captives up after they were secured. He pulled the goon in his hands closer, making his face just this side of uncanny “you found it fun didn’t you?”

The goon shaking his head vigorously in the yes manner. Schrodinger gave a wide sharp toothy grin. “See he liked it.” he presented the man to Robin who glared at him in return ignoring the crook.

“I will not take a coerced agreement as an effective grade of such nonsense.”

“Awwwww.'' Schrodinger whined. Dragging the goon to the pile of others to secure them together. His invisible copy getting his bluetooth speaker. “You liked it right Superboy?”

“That was maybe a little dark.” Superboy held up his thumb and forefinger a centimeters apart in front of his face.

“Ugh, I thought Nightwing was the only baby about dark humor.” Schrodinger stomped his foot and crossed his arms with an ever growing pout. “What if I pick a different song?”

“No.” Robin said sharply as they moved back into the rooftops after Robin dropped a tracker for the police on the group. “Maybe…” Superboy said at the same time, stopping his thought process at Robin’s glare.

Chapter Text

“You sure you don’t want to add to it?” Schrodinger asked, holding out the paint brush.

“My dad doesn’t like me participating in the tagging.” Superboy stated poking his finger tips together why Robin and Schrodinger worked on painting a gargoyle in the heights near the highschool. Making it look like Red Robin. When Robin had shown the picture of one of his brother's older costumes with the ugly cowl, the kitty boy had almost fallen off the roof laughing had Superboy not grabbed him. And the two decided to use it as the rendition for their gargoyle. Danny had applied all the big base colors, and Robin had been finessing the details. Danny had chosen for the wings to be painted to look like they were part of his bandoliers. And painted the name tag at its base that read gargoyle Robin. Since he had been laminating everyone’s love of the color Red in their hero names. Including one of his friends.

“That’s cause he’s a goody goody stick in the mud.” Danny mumbled bitterly under his breath.

“I’m sorry.” Superboy said sadly.

“Don’t be.” Schrodinger said without looking up from what he was doing his tongue sticking out as he carefully painted his letters. “It’s not your fault. We don’t all get to pick our parents. Or all of our parents. That’s actually a nice thing about being a ghost. You get to actively choose your parents or opt out of having them. And your family you get to build it from scratch how you want. I have an awesome fraid. And lot’s of parents and I know they wanted me as their kid and family. Living you are stuck with whatever parents you have, and they can get rid of you whenever they want.”

“Are you referring to Catwoman or your previous parents?” Robin asked pausing to look at Schrodinger.

“I guess both a little bit. I’m happy mom came back for me. And that she loves me. But it’s probably dumb, but everything has been amazing here.” he rubbed the back of his hand across his cheek leaving a paint streak behind. “Part of me wonders what my life would have been like if I had grown up here”

“I can understand that bit of sentiment. When my mother left me with father initially, I did not handle the transition or my new family life well. It was a jarring transition. I eventually had to choose between trying to manage here at fathers side or returning home with mother as a failure. Some days it is still trying and makes me contemplate my initial choice.” Damian turned back to his task, “today is not one of those days.”

Superboy watched his two friends work, both with soft smiles. “I’m happy you are both here now. And even if you grew up here you wouldn’t have your old friends and family and might not have met me and Robin.”

Robin gave him a judging look before sealing up the paints Schrodinger had brought. And he worked on cleaning the brushes he had brought in the bottle of paint thinner. “He is Catwoman's son. We would have most certainly met.”

“You have just had to suffer through forced play dates when you first showed up.” Red Robin said when he landed next to them inspecting his work. “Maybe you would have all been less feral.”

“Hi Red Robin. You hanging out with us?” Superboy asked.

“No. I'm here collecting evidence to annoy spoiler. She’s going to be so jealous.”

“Tsk”

“I don’t think that word means what you think it means.” Schrodinger said collecting his paints and shoving them into the backpack he brought.

“Which one?” Red Robin asked while taking pictures. “Thanks by the way.” Schrodinger had pulled his powers back so he could get clear pictures.

“Feral. Robin isn’t feral. And I'm pretty sure like it’s just in my blood to be feral, my little sister is way worse.”

“Superboy calls Robin the spicy bird.”

“Tell your brother I will be commissioning a new kryptonite blade.”

“OK I don't think you know what feral means. He tried to kill me when he showed up here. He…”

“And?”

“What do you mean and? That is feral behavior.”

“Sounds like normal little siblings to me.”

“How is that normal?!”

“Well cause all siblings do it.” Schrodinger raised a brow at Red Robin before holding out a hand and counting on his fingers touching them with the pointer on the opposite hand as he went. “Mine shot me in the back,” “she what?!” “Dan tried to kill our big sister with a explosion,” “OH my god,” “Tucks little sister tried to dump his electronics in the bath with him.” “OH so we have outside family references now” “Stars sister pushed her down the stairs” “is that actually lethal?” “Yes” “and Kwan’s brother tried to drown him at the lake. Seems normal to me.” Schrodinger looked at Red Robin who seemed frozen, before turning to Robin. “Dude what's wrong with your brother. He's like I'd call it panic but I think it's, ope there it goes hysterical definitely full blown hysteria. “

“Tsk, he has held my past actions over me for some time now as evidence of poor upbringing on my mother and grandfather. I'm sure discovering that my behavior was in line culturally and not an outlier has caused him some mental discomfort.”

“Well did you say you were sorry?” Danny asked, hands on his hips.

“Yes I have,”

“Do you want me to call Kon?”

“Like for real and meant it? Or the forced in the moment by your parents?”

Robin opened his mouth,closed it for a minute before finally speaking, “it could have been improved.”

“No, I'm fine. I just need a minute.”

“How long ago?”

“5 years.”

“Maybe a show of remorse then. I'll brainstorm.”

“Am I supposed to try and kill Kon?”

“No!!!” “Not particularly?” “It appears so.”

“It's not like a thought out thing. It's usually your sibling does something to make you so mad or you are so mad you lash out at them. Or get revenge. If he hasn't done anything that makes you want to do that then I wouldn't.” Schrodinger pointed out.

“You didn't use yourself as an example of trying to kill your siblings.” Red Robin finally seemed to have collected his thoughts.

“I haven't. Or kinda not really. I've had a bad fight with Dan, but we weren't trying to end each other.”

Tim's shoulders sagged in relief. Getting a raised eyebrow from Robin. “That's good. Very good. Don't try and kill your brother.” He pointed a finger at Superboy.

“OK, I didn't want to but I want to be a good brother for him.”

“Steal his clothes.” Schrodinger suggested.

“Why would stealing clothing make him a good brother?”

“What’d my sister say, something about flattery? Anyway it shows you like look up to them and stuff. But also annoys them cause it’s their stuff. Classic. Go for their favorite item.” Schrodinger said proudly.

“Ok back up how does this relay to robin not being feral?” Red Robin asked.

“Uh, have you met him?” Schrodinger asked. “He totally gives off spoiled rich kid vibes.” Superboy and Robin both turned to look at him. Jon side eyed Robin with some barely contained panic. “That's the exact opposite of feral. He’s not gonna slum it through the neighborhood and barter chores and repairs for food or snacks. Or dig through dumpsters to find a way to entertain himself and his friends.”

“That’s what you think it means to be feral?” Red Robin asked.

“Roaming the streets, taking care of yourself and doing your own things. Yeah, like that’s feral. He’s totally a spoiled house cat with like servants and stuff, and micromanaging parents.”

“How did you come to those conclusions?”

“It’s the superiority complex you have.” Red Robin said, getting a glare for it.

“Yeah, but that’s not bad. It’s not like he thinks he’s better than others cause he’s rich and they are poor, it’s cause he’s actually better at stuff." Robin gave a smug smirk to his brother for the praise. “One of my friends is like that. She’s kinda similar and hates her parents money being flaunted or being used for it. She likes to take charge and make things around her better. And feels strongly about things. She bullied me into being a hero.” he said in a teasing tone then pointed at Robin with his thumb. “Totally same vibes. And like me and Tuck like to point out to her, hanging with the plebs and getting your hands dirty doesn’t make her one. When she gets all out of sorts we tease her with Common People by Pulp." Schrodinger was smiling wide, swinging his head, talking about his friends.

“You are using a comparison to feral cats, and house cats…” Red Robin pointed out.

“Was that not what you meant?” Superboy asked, a bit confused. “I just think Robin is assertive. Most of you bats are.”

“That’s cause they are all rich kids. Bossiness comes with money. Red Robin has the same thing going for him. He totally has the same superiority complex; he just tries to act like he doesn’t." Schrodinger said to Superboy. Robin decided to just bask in Tim being called out by others around him without his prompting.

“I do not!” Red Robin snapped. “I don’t have a superiority complex to try and cover one up.”

“Eh maybe you’re just a bossy big brother then.'' Schrodinger grabbed Robin and Superboy's arms with a laugh at red Robin’s affronted face and turned them all intangible to phase through the building leaving Red Robin behind.

“I think you just got burned.” Spoiler’s voice came in over his com.

“I did not. He totally ran instead of hearing out my points.”

“Still a bossy rich kid older brother.” Spoiler snorted.

“I have a gargoyle and you don’t.” Red Robin said turning off his coms to spoiler and taking off on patrol.

**********

“Though I enjoyed your take down of red robin’s claims. I am hardly a spoiled house cat.”

“You’re rich. You can be a bengal cat. But you are still a spoiled rich house cat.”

“We still like you though.”

“He’s a spoiled golden retriever sucking up to his favorite spoiled house cat who knocks shit off the high shelf for him.”

“hey!”

Chapter Text

“Still no sign of your sister?”

“No but we have a week still.” Schrodinger answered. The trio were circling around the rail yards with Superboy. Jon had heard a strange noise so they were hanging out close to see if they heard it again.

“Any luck Superboy?” Robin asked.

“I don’t know. It would help if I knew what the sound was. It was like squeaking and a tuba? Tearing?”

“A rat?” Schrodinger asked before his head snapped to focus on the rail yard eyes glowing green. “Something just died.”

“Here?” Robin asked. Following Schrodinger's line of sight.

“Close yeah.” he pointed towards one of the trains in the distance a bit from their current location on a water tower.

“A person?” Superboy asked concerned.

“Something decently sized. Could be a person.”

“Let's go now.” Robin instructed. Having Schrodinger take the lead. Jumping down with his pole and floating abilities to get on the ground level and slink between the train cars towards the one with the death.

“That one.” Superboy pointed out the train the sound was coming from. “There are several people inside too. On the other cars.”

“Why didn't you say so before?”

“Cause the weird noise was weirder than people.” Superboy said honestly.

“I smell food cooking.” Schrodinger said coming up on them hanging halfway out of another car they were hidden by. “And sounds like guinea pigs. And some really fucked up birds.”

“OK so sounds like a kitchen staff? Uh, a dinner party!” Superboy said, focusing on the chatter.

“It's a junky looking shipping train.” Schrodinger's nose scrunched up. “Who has a dinner party in the creepy train yard?”

“Maybe one of those murder mystery type things?” Jon offered, “but the conversation doesn't match that yet. They are discussing wine pairings? With soup?”

“Hopefully the murder part is not made to be realistic.” Robin said. “Schrodinger get us inside undetected where there is no one present.”

“You got it.” Schrodinger took both their hands and walked quickly along the side of the train with all of them invisible and once he was beside a car towards the back he was sure didn't have people in it did he phase them inside, taking a long look around with his ability to see in the dark to double check before releasing them and his invisibility. “Dude look it is a guinea pig!” Schrodinger lifted one of the animals from the pen. “I wonder if instead of a murder mystery dinner it's like a cat Cafe thing?”

“That would be kind of cool.” Jon said, picking up one of the critters to pet. “Three of them here.” He held it up for Damian to scan with his camera to load into his wrist computer to run a search. He had an idea of what kind of dinner party this was, and the information his computer relayed to him unfortunately confirmed it.

“Schrodinger, can you secure them safely while we investigate?” Robin asked. Jon put his back in the crate pen and so did Schrodinger.

“Yeah, but…”

“Please do. Unfortunately this is not a cat Cafe adjacent. And what we are about to move on will most likely be visually and mentally disturbing.” Robin drew his sword. Danny made quick work to build an ice dome around the pen with an opening for air that was too small for an adult hand to reach threw and too high above the occupants. “Schrodinger, I would like you to focus on the victims and securing all of them safely to this car. Superboy, no one escapes for these crimes.”

“If you want I can seal the whole train in my ice?” Schrodinger suggested.

“Can you also block outgoing transmission? I do not want any of them to call for backup.” Robin said, taking point at the door leading to the next car.

“Yeah I can do that. But who are the victims?” Schrodinger asked, confused.

“You will know once we reach the kitchen I'm sure. Be alert and be safe.”

“Robin?” Superboy asked worriedly.

“I believe this will be a situation similar to batcow.” Robin informed his friend. Who understood the reference. Schrodinger tilted his head like a confused cat but followed them to the door to the next car. Encasing the outside of the car as they left.

The first car seemed to be a pantry of sorts and storage of unused dishware. The next car was a refrigerator car. And hanging from the ceiling in the corner of the room was a sea turtle, its throat slit blood draining into a tub below it and the flippers and tail missing.

“They killed it.” Schrodinger's quiet voice filled the car. Robin heeded the sensors on his suit.

“It is very upsetting. But we need you to try and maintain control of your powers. There is a possibility of there being more animals that need rescue from these barbarians.”

“There are birds a few cars ahead.” Superboy Said just as softly.

“It's an endangered animal. Why would they do that?”

“So were the guinea pigs." Robin answered. “Some vile people take pleasure in what they can pilfer from the world. We will rescue them. But we need to be calm. In tight quarters this will be difficult if we are not all focused on our goals. Once we make contact with a person, freeze the whole train. Superboy give us a count.”

“Next car has 7 people, the next is emptish people from the 3rd are going back and forth, 3rd one after has 13. the following one has 2.”

“Which car are the birds?”

“The 3rd with the most people.” Superboy answered. Robin noted the temp fluctuations Schrodinger was trying; he wasn't sure they could give him more time.

“Schrodinger, are you able to move forward?”

“Yeah.” with Schrodinger's confirmation Robin motioned for Superboy to open the door with force. He was obliged by Superboy punching it through the other one and into the kitchen. Schrodinger's eyes flashing a bright blue and the temp dropping a few degrees but not anything dangerous to his sensors. His coms went to static though. He’d have to address that once they were done.

Robin wasted no time engaging with those who attacked him. A large man with a meat cleaver was the first. The area was tight with gas stoves and ovens on both sides. While he was engaged with the cook with the cleaver, another swung a hot frying pan full of oil at him. He dodged expecting a bit of oil to hit him instead to catch the whole thing flying the opposite direction back to the hot stove igniting it in flames till it was iced over again. Schrodinger's eyes going between blue and green. Superboy was handling the ones who were surrendering. Making cuffs out of metalware around the kitchen and scolding them. Robin made quick work of the man with the knife and the one who had tried to attack with the frying pan had made a run for it. Along with another. Danny froze the door over before the frying pan man got through. Schrodinger disappeared behind him to suddenly pop up in front of the cook as he turned back to face Robin and Superboy.

Schrodinger's mouth was wide and full of sharp teeth when he snarled up at the man. “You’re the one who killed the turtle!”

“Schrodinger contain him for now and clear the door. We must proceed. The commotion has most assuredly alerted the others.” Robin informed the younger boy. He was cuffing the man with the knife to a piece of heavy equipment and Superboy turning off all the gas.

When the man Schrodinger had cornered grabbed a knife from a wall holder and swung it at the kitty boy. The blade passed through him for Danny to grab the hand with the knife and phase it into the wall. “I’m not done with you.” Schrodinger snarled again. Flashing his eyes.

Danny dropped the ice around the door for Superboy to push in front of him to take the shots from the men shooting at them. Danny put up ice on both sides so no bullets came through to hit the people they had just taken down.

“How many shooting? How many in the next car?”

“3, two are shooting, one is yelling out orders.” Jon answered. The gun fire suddenly ceased. As Schrodinger disappeared with them, to appear in the next car holding both guns, slowly freezing them over while glaring them down. As soon as the gunfire had stopped Jon had moved, allowing Robin to move and attack the two men, one smart enough to stop trying to reclaim their weapon from the angry catboy and put distance to grab items around the wait staff station to fling at Robin and Superboy. The one bossing out orders fleeing to the next car. The man falling when Superboy punched in the door behind him much like the first one. Only for two more men to start shooting at them with the patrons yelling and screaming at someone. Jon trying to block the bullets. Robin made quick work of his opponent and Danny secured him and the first man in the wall backs to the gun shots with a wall of ice as a shield for them.

“Not another step, heroes!” a voice called out when the gun fire stopped. Schrodinger and Robin coming up to stand in view of the door with Superboy. A man in a fancy suit and slicked back hair was holding up a bird cage with a large green parrot in it. Robin recognized it as a kakapo. The cage barely big enough to contain the poor animal. A gun held up in view next to it. “Here to save the stupid animals. I'll kill them all if you do not let us leave this instant.” Robin saw another person shaking in a waiter type outfit holding another bird in a similar cage. A crowd of rich elite of Gotham he recognized cowering behind the staff and 2 hired guns, probably guards. Schrodinger disappeared again to pop up in front of the man behind the gun.

“Wa…” Robin didn’t even get to finish the command before the kitty boy staring down the man holding the bird hostage opened his mouth wide and bit straight through the man’s forearm. The severed hand holding the gun froze over and hit the ground with a thud. Drowned out by loud screaming. The man’s stump at the elbow freezing. And Danny caught the bird cage easily phasing it from his grip. His duplicate appearing to snatch the cage from the scared server with glare before disappearing with the bird. Robin and Superboy rushed the distracted gunmen to quickly neutralize and subdue them. “Spit it out now!” Robin was much relieved when Schrodinger spit out the chunk of the wailing man on his knees now. The bloody chunk landed in front of him, splattering some of his blood on the man. Leading to the hysterical screaming and yelling to pick up again.

Schrodinger wiped off his face. Smearing the man’s blood. “He’ll live. How do you like it you crazy fruit loop.” he kept his glare on the injured man.

“My concern is you don’t know where that cretin has been or done. You could get sick.”

“You dare imply I am filthy you disgusting brats! Do you know who I am?” the man screeched at them, still holding his severed arm.

“Yes, considering your malfeasance. You are probably full of disease and parasites from your diet choices.” Robin watched as the other cage disappeared from Schrodinger's hand. Robin then turned his attention on the rest of the group who had finally stopped screaming. “I suggest the rest of you surrender yourself to wait for the authorities.”

“Cops aren’t going to do anything; these are a bunch of rich fruit loops. They are just going to buy their way out of trouble..” Danny seethed, glaring them all down. Getting looks of sneers, disgust and fear in return.

“What else can we do?” Superboy said. “We saved the other animals though.”

“Not the turtle.” Danny said, turning fully to face the rich party patrons. Robin was cuffing the wait staff that stepped forward to surrender peacefully.

“Do not do anything rash Schrodinger.” Robin said watching the boy carefully who seemed to be struggling with something and face scrunched up thinking hard about something.

“Yeah, no, fuck them, I’m making sure they learn some sort of lesson.” Schrodinger finally decided to look up decisively. A bright flash of light came out of him for his transformation, the screaming starting up again Robin moving towards the kitty boy to try and keep him from lashing out. Though he took in how different he looked than last time he had transformed. Still the white hair and domino but his skin was a bluish green hue, and bright light looking cracks etched across his face on one side down his neck and arm fingertips the some color of light on that side. It also went down to his heart and down one leg of the black garment. a black cape covered in stars, real stars it appeared, whipping around his shoulders in an invisible wind. His fingers extended out in long sharp claws, limbs all inhumanly long and out of scale of his body, and a crown of ice sparkled above his head with a black smokey shadow filtering between the points. The crown floated just out of reach of some small horns of ice coming out of his forehead. Superboy was struck by the glowing freckles on his face too. All the light casting a blue green glow on the entire train car. “Cover your ears Superboy.” was the only warning he gave before he began to speak in cursed ghost speak. Projecting his power into his words to curse those souls he wanted. Grabbing hold of the rich patrons, the man who reeked of death who had threatened the bird and the man several cars down who had killed the turtle. The radio static doubled over itself on repeat but he knew they’d hear the conditions of the curse.

Once the curse was done the flash of light went off again and the Schrodinger Robin and Superboy recognized was left in his place.

Robin braced him as he seemed to sway a bit on his feet. “What did you do?!” Robin asked, looking at the stunned silent rich elite staring down Schrodinger. Robin kept his sword to the side in case any made an attempt to attack.

“Cursed them all to be vegetarians.” Schrodinger said tiredly. “Or to face being hunted for sport in the afterlife. They want to eat endangered animals they can lose the privilege all together.”

“That is all? Are you alright?” Robin asked as Schrodinger leaned more heavily on him.

“You can do that?” Superboy asked stunned hands held just a few inches from his ears. But slowly lowered them.

“Yeah.” Schrodinger's eyes started to droop. “Don’t tell Hood or mom. I’m gonna be grounded as it is.” he whispered. Superboy flew forward to grab the cat boy before he fell. “Gotta take back my ice.” he slurred a bit.

“Do it.” Robin said. “Superboy contain the rest please. You are all still under arrest.” Robin helped lower Schrodinger to the ground so Superboy could grab all the table clothes and use it to tie them all together. Robin was happy to see the ice on the man’s injuries was left in tack.

“Oh thank goodness, his heartbeat is getting stronger.” Superboy said. Flying to hover over the boy laying on the ground panting. The static was gone from his com. He immediately called in to oracle asking for police and medical assistance and relaying their current mission essentials and asking for relief from another bat.

“Superboy get Schrodinger to the same safe area as the animals. I’m sure he put them together.” Robin also signed for him to clean the blood off him if any was left. Though he didn’t see any presently.

“I did. I just need a breather.” the boy mumbled, still not moving. “Soul magic is hard.”

“I got ya buddy.” Jon said, scooping up the light boy and flying through the now fully open train back to the last car. After a short while Superboy was back helping move all the people to the one car. Signing Schrodinger had fallen asleep. He had to use his laser vision to cut 3 of them free of the train cars they were phased into.

“You guys ok?” Nightwing said climbing into the train car. “Paramedics are on the way, Oracle is slowing down the cops to buy time.”

“Are you our only relief?” Robin asked.

“No RR is coming too. Where is Schrodinger?”

“He’s passed out in the back with the animals.”

“Why is he passed out?” Nightwing asked, taking in the scene and noticing the man holding his stub of an arm with his ankles tied together with a twisted ladle and the pieces of the man at his feet. “Oh, please tell me that wasn’t him.”

“You vigilantes would harbor such a monster!” someone yelled out.

“Tsk, the only monsters present here are those who would sacrifice an entire species' future for a sad pathetic meal!” Robin snapped. “Feel lucky that is all the damage he inflicted. For I am sorely tempted to do more!”

“Yep, you need relief. Go grab our kitty and get out of here. I'll take care of talking to the police.” Nightwing tapped his com. “You get that Oracle?”

“Yes, letting them through. Robin pick a safe house in the area.”

Robin hit his com in the code so she knew he heard and waved down Jon to head towards Schrodinger. Once in the back Robin found the guinea pig crate with an ice barrier down the middle and bars of ice on top with one side housing the rodent and the other the kakapo. The tiny bird cages smashed.

“If I hold Schrodinger while sitting on the crate, can you carry it without dropping any of us?” Robin asked Superboy.

“Yeah, it’s awkward but doable. But aren’t the animals evidence?” Superboy asked.

“I do not trust the buffoons of the gcpd to care for them in evidence or for one of those cretins to not try and get revenge by paying them off to dispose of them. So we are taking them.” Robin answered while scooping up Schrodinger. Frowning at how light the smaller boy was. But he carefully sat them on top of the ice and let Superboy get them out of the train and into the Gotham night.

*****************************************************************************

“He bit a guys arm off?!” Red Robin asked, hitting the scene and immediately taking notice of the man being treated by paramedics to snap at Dick.

“His ice is keeping it stable. They can probably reattach it. If he wakes up soon and can get it back off.” Nightwing answered. “And it’s not some guy, it’s Karl Nivor. He’s wanted by Interpol for trafficking in endangered and restricted wildlife, poaching, and is a black market chef in endangered cuisine.”

“B is going to lose his mind over this. You know that right?”

“Oh, he might loose his mind more over the fact that Schrodinger transformed in front of all these people and cursed half of them. Oh and the siren’s and Hood. They might lose their shit too.”

“He what? What the hell do you mean transformed? Transformed into what?”

“He has his human form and a ghost one. Robin knew. But he is not supposed to do that except one warehouse or the sewers with tech to hide his energy signature. He just shot off a flare. And passed out.” Red Robin made a strangling motion in front of himself. “And the kids stole some evidence so expect the baby bat to come home with more pets.”

“Who’s idea was it to allow all the brats to go out together without supervision?” Red groaned.

“Justice League Dark. The siren’s And Robin." Batman answered, appearing from the shadows to pass both his boys and approach a commissioner Gordon who looked ready to have an aneurysm. Batman hit his coms calling into Robin to get a report from him to readdress Gordon.

“Is Hood going to storm the place?” Red Robin asked with a tired sigh.

“No, I'm on look out. Just get his ass back to the alley as soon as you can.” Hood called into the family coms.

“He’s checking areas my camera’s are down. If I get a black out near the kids then we need to move them fast.” Oracle said.

“Have you spotted any of this organization yet?” Red Robin asked, standing more alert.

“Not yet tonight. Hard to miss. They look like reverse men in black rejects.”

“Seriously?” Red Robin said dripping with doneness.

“Guys in white.” Nightwing sing songed. He watched Batman’s head move. “Omph he’s gonna call Constantine.”

Chapter Text

“Bloody fucking christ.” Constantine said, holding his head standing besides Batman and the commissioner.

“I’m taking it this curse thing is pretty bad?” commissioner Gordon asked.

“Bad for them.” Constantine pulled out a cigarette. “I think I'd off myself if I couldn't have a burger or risk being hunted in the afterlife for each one I ate. And that’s if you're lucky and the burger is made from just one cow. In a factory, could be 100 in each patty. All these cunts got money, they could buy a whole cow and have it processed and get a few meals out of it. So they could keep track of their mars that way. And reduce them while still getting to eat meat but damn. brat’s creative. Give’em that.”

“Well aren’t you going to fix it?” a rather pinch faced woman demanded.

Constantine pulled the cigarette from his mouth. “You couldn’t pay me enough to reverse your lot’s curse. You earned it. Be happy the nipper gave solid conditions and left you with free will to choose." Constantine turned around to walk away from the rich lot, the other two men following. “ You bloody fuckers have no idea how lucky you are he’s a good sweet kid.”

“He bit a man’s arm off.” Gordon said, scrubbing his own face with one hand.

“He didn’t eat it. And it’s salvageable. Kid kept it on ice. Plus his ice has healing qualities. Bastard will be fine.” Constantine said, sticking his cigarette back in his mouth. “I’m more worried about the little moppet. He soul marked and cursed 12 people at once. Do you know how much juice that takes? And all nice and clean and clear.” Batman stared him down. “It’s not shoddy. If I was trying to do 12 at once. I’d say it’d be pretty low odds they'll all be perfect. Nobody’s soul is gonna get torn up from a piss poor job.” John pulled a cellphone from his pocket. “Need to do a perception altering spell though. Don’t need this lot spilling his secrets now.” he had a picture of Schrodinger on it which he passed over to Batman. “Hold that mate. And don’t try nothing stupid." John started rifling through his pockets pulling out all manner of things.

“This isn’t your phone.” Batman said, looking at the picture of Schrodinger sitting on a rooftop next to a greenhouse waving at the camera.

“New. gift from the little king.”

“Wait, this kid is a king? That’s not just some elaborate hallucination?”

“The king, mate, controls the route to all afterlifes. Try to stay on his good side. Obviously he’s petty when he’s upset.”

“Do I want to know how Selina's kid ended up king of the afterlife?”

“Eh probably not, stories starting out with dead kids tend to be real shite.”

“Constantine!” Nightwing scolded.

“Don’t you got a few brats to check up on instead of being up my arse.”

“They are safe. And Schrodinger isn’t awake yet.” Red Robin said. “Probably a bad idea to crowd him if he wakes up. They won’t be able to operate on our master mind though till we get him awake. Can you help with that?”

“I might. Kid probably burned through all his energy reserves. His family has some if someone wants to do a pick up." Constantine finally had everything he needed. Starting to draw on the ground with a piece of chalk. “Now here’s the rough part so I don't fry anyone’s brain, one at a time in the circle.”

“Not strong as the kid to do it all at once like him?” Gordon asked.

“No I'm not. But power ain’t really the issue. The focus is.” Constantine clarified. “I know you lot don’t deal with magic often. But what he did was extremely impressive power or not. He’s fucking 2 when it comes to powers and magic. Probably that adhd hyperfocus thing helped out cause he was so pissed.”

“He has adhd?” Batman and Gordon asked.

“Is it not obvious?” John side eyed Batman. He pointed to his two boys. “They knew.”

“I got told.”

“It’s obvious but we had confirmation. And the inability to medicate him that we got confirmation on highlights it.”

“From your notes it seemed more like the behaviors were a side effect of his species.” Batman stated.

“Some overlap, sure. Let’s get this show on now. I ain’t got all day.”

Gordon flagged down one of his men to explain what they needed and to have 2 men escort each of the suspects one at a time.

“Grundy Harley and Croc are out with Hood checking for these guys in white.” Tim spoke up. “Catwoman and Ivy are gathering supplies and have been in contact with Superboy and Robin.”

“Guys in white? Do these guys wear white monkey suits?” Gordon asked softly as John worked. Batman hummed an affirmation. “We’ve had a few weird homicides. Bodies found of men and a woman in white suits. Most look like muggings gone wrong or something, the weird part is when we try and pull i.d.’s of the victims they get flagged and our system locks up and crashes. When it’s rebooted all the notes on our johns and jane doe disappeared.”

“You still have the bodies?” Tim asked, perking up.

“Yeah, long term cold storage. Can I expect you to swing by?” Gordon asked. He got another hum of yes from Batman.

“Is there a reason why you didn’t let us know about it?” Nightwing asked.

“Recently found bodies. And you guys always just show up. I guess the wipe from whoever cleared out however you track it. I kind of thought it was you guys.” Gordon added. “Are we worried about where Selina found this meta kid and how he ended up with her and the siren’s?”

“No,” the two boys answered, and Batman, “we’re looking into it.” though he glared at the two boys who ignored him. Nightwing shrugged.

“I feel like there is a story there. And I'm not going to get it, am I?”

“Nope.” Nightwing said. And Batman grunted.

“Do I need to worry about a meta going around taking chunks out of criminals?” Gordon sighed deeply.

“I think it was used as a statement here. This is the first time he’s done something like that.” Red Robin answered.

“Usually it’s garbage we have a problem keeping him from eating. And he didn’t eat the arm.” Nightwing said.

“He eats garbage? Like what?” Gordon asked.

“Food containers.”

“Wood.”

“Batarangs.”

“Is this kid ok? Do the siren’s need money for food? I mean they have been off the life of crime for a while.”

“Little shit is a troll. They feed him.”

“Red Robin.” Batman scolded.

Constantine finished up looking a bit worse for wear but snatched his phone up from Batman. “Alright. Now to deal with the little bugger. He’s in deep shite.”

“I thought you liked what he did?” Red Robin asked.

“Oh love it. Poetic, effective, skilled. But he set off a magical fucking flare in the middle of his fucking play area and revealed to 12 narcissistic fucks his identity on this plane who would hold a grudge and be pissed off at him to announce it to any bloody fucking arse who would ask!'' Constantine snapped at him like he was stupid. “I thought you were the smart one?”

“I mean, it wasn’t thought out well but it couldn’t be that…” Nightwing tried to defend.

“I knew what the little shit did before Batsy called me! I was in the middle of seeing if he could be pinpointed with any level of accuracy by every magic user on the planet who had their inter dimensional power house doorbell rung!” Constantine dug out another cigarette during his rant.

“Are we going to get swarmed by magic nutjobs too? Is that a thing I need to worry about?” Gordon asked.

“Luckily no, kid was quick, if someone got the spell going as soon as he started they pinpointed him to the east coast unless they were in the area. Then well, but the curses of Gotham help confused the tracking spells. Nobody is pinpointing this exact location, and his magic dispels quickly, nothing lingering to trace after either. Thank the fuck!”

“Robin says he knew he was going to get grounded. And not to tell Catwoman.” Nightwing informed him.

“Oh I want the pleasure then. He knew it was stupid.” Constantine said.

“Is he in danger if some of our magic problems find him?” Red Robin asked.

“I’m hoping they like living enough not to do anything stupid, but I mean you know the little moppet. He’s a bit trusting.”

Batman turned his whole full upper torso towards john. Nightwing bust out laughing. While Red Robin mumbled fair typing away on his wrist computer. “I feel like I'm missing some context.” Gordon side eyed all the bats. John waved him off.

“I’ll check on the kid. Get him up and at em and then meet you at the hospital the one armed cook got taken too.”

“I’m catching a ride.” Nightwing said, walking up to John Constantine to drop a hand on his shoulder.

“More like I'm catching a ride with you. Saving my magic for a scolding. And maybe I don't know magical spanking.”

“Can you lock his powers?” Red Robin asked seriously before Nightwing and Constantine walked away.

“He won’t.” Batman said.

“You bloody fucking right I won’t. Even if I could. And I can't, I'm not sure anyone besides his gramps can. Nerf the kid is your bright…”

“How do you even know that word?!” Red Robin complained loudly. “You really going to take slang lessons from him?”

“I ain’t gonna do that bloody shit ever! Don’t ever suggest it again!” John yelled as they left Nightwing giving one last, what can you do arm raise before they turned down an alley.

“Ugh, you can’t make things easy for me can you? I’ll make sure they get all booked up and then meet you down at the hospital. I’ll let you do what you do… since you aren’t going with them?” Gordon thumbed at where John and Nightwing disappeared.

Red Robin snorted. “Not if he doesn’t want to have some bloody claw marks.”

“All right then. Good luck boys, see you in a bit.”

Chapter Text

“Some little blighter has some explaining to do!”

“Tsk do you not understand the purpose of a safe house? Announcing our presence here is counter intuitive Constantine.” Robin scolded Constantine as the man entered with Nightwing. Selina and Ivy were sitting on the couch with a small space between them. And Superboy was sitting by the crate feeding the animals within with plants of Ivy’s

“Tell that to your idiotic little friend there!” John pointed to the empty spot on the couch.

“I don’t feel bad and I'd do it again!”

“You can’t go biting off limbs kiddo.” Nightwing scolded the empty place on the couch. “We told Gordon you wouldn't do that anymore.”

“Unless someone touches you inappropriately. Then bite all their limbs off sweetheart.” Selina added.

“And then drag home the rest for us to feed to my plants or Waylon.” Ivy finished.

“I have an obligation to say we don’t encourage maiming…”

“You aren’t going to argue that one. We know you.” Selina said bored.

“I said it was an obligation.”

“Who gives a bloody damn about the cooks arm! I don’t even care about the curse! Don’t make me force you to be visible cause I will. What you did was insanely stupid and ignorant!”

“Those words mean the same thing.” Superboy said to him.

Ivy shushed him gently with a vine. But Danny did shift back to the visible plane pouting on the couch with his arms crossed.

“You want to fess up? Tell ya mum what ya did?” John stared down at Schrodinger. “Why the alarm went off like a bloody school bell! Cause I will if you don’t.”

Danny stared him down defiantly. “I’d do it again. They are going to get out of it cause they are rich fruitloops and they get away with everything! And it’s not right! It was the only way I knew how to do make them not be able to get away with it! They were just gonna do it again!”

“I understand your righteous fury about the rich fucks, I do! But you can not! Just go around showing off your true form all willy nilly for bloody sleazy rich cunts to screech about!”

“You did what?!” Selina asked, sitting upright and grabbing Danny’s hand. Nightwing held up his hands behind the fuss to make sure Robin and Jon kept quiet and didn’t try and get involved when it looked like Robin would say something.

“You’re true form leeches to much power on this plane. It’s why you needed that little catnap. But it isn’t just the guys in white you pinged with that ignorant stunt. Your little shit show also alerted all the magi on this plane that you are in america on the east coast! That is…”

“Nobody ever noticed before!” Danny yelled back.

“sorry what?” John asked, a bit shocked. “Ya’ve… ya ‘ve been in your true form on this plane before?”

“If all magi can feel that you should have too then correct?” Ivy asked, narrowing her eyes at the man taking Danny’s other hand.

“Yes I bloody should have! And I was this time, same with all of dark. Even the house of mystery felt it.” he looked over to Selina’s glare. “That is big. After this we need to have another chat. Urgent.” he cast his eyes towards the superbrats. “Private.” he turned back to Danny. “I’m gonna get to the bottom of that and get you a why. But I am telling you right now. You can not do that here, ever. Not sure you have faced any magi before…”

“Does an asshole clown with ghost mind control count?” Schrodinger looked done while delivering the question deadpan.

“Like I said we need to have another chat. I’ll add that to my list. But that tells me, you know how dangerous a magi ass can be. And you lit a bloody fucking flare. You have enough problems. Do not go making them worse.” he glared harder. “Think about the trouble you’d be causing your mum.” he took the shove back by Selina and Ivy. But he finally got it through the little brats thick skull he knew from the guilt on the boy's face and radiating from him.

“That is out of line!” Selina seethed. “He made a mistake and it’s my job to help handle my son’s problems. He’s my child!” She pulled her son into her side hugging him. Petting back his hair as he mumbled sorries into her side.

Nightwing forced his way between John and the couch holding up a hand trying to calm everyone down. “Easy, everyone is a bit high strung right now. We don’t need to make things worse. Schrodinger now knows he can’t do that again. Right kitten?” he got a tiny nod but Danny wouldn’t look at him.

“Good. see to it that you don’t. You want to curse a bastard, do it one at a time. Or call me. we both know you know how.” John scolded a bit lighter.

“I don’t know how to mark a soul in human form.” Danny mumbled.

“We’ll work on it then.”

“That sounds like fun.” Nightwing said as peppy as he could. “You can set up a playdate.” John groaned and Ivy and Robin looked at him like he was stupid. “But if you are feeling up to it, we need to get to the hospital so the doctors can fix the bad man's arm.”

“Let him lose it.” Robin said deadpan, staring down his older brother.

Nightwing pointed at his little brother, “and you still need relief and these animals need to go back to the police, into evidence.”

“No!” all three kids and the sirens replied with immediately.

“We have a better situation planned for them that continues their life and well being. The police we know will not do as such." Damian stated.

“Robin is going to bring home the guinea pigs!” Superboy said excitedly.

“Great….” Nightwing said. “Does our grandfather know?”

“Yes.” Nightwing gave his brother a suspicious look with side eye.

“We will be taking care of the birds.” Ivy stated.

“Fine, fine, we don’t have time to argue. Kitten, you need to come with us to the hospital and take the ice off. If not for him, to get rid of evidence of you being there. The commissioner brought up that the GIW might be snooping into their systems." Before the sirens could speak he gestured to them. “I will get what I can to you that they have. Right now 3 suspected bodies.”

“I’m going to then.” Selina stated.

“I’ll take care of the birds.” Ivy said.

“Is batman going to be there?” Danny asked. Selina stood before Nightwing with her hands on Danny’s slowly rising shoulders in front of her.

“Yes,” Nightwing gave her a tense smile, “but he’s not going to try anything, he is there to placate the police and patient.”

“Cops are going to be there too?” Danny asked, pushing his mom back a half step with him.”

“Just…”

“None of them need to know you are there.” John lifted a glowing hand moving Nightwing out of the way. “Get you a bit more energy, and we are going to make them think it’s all my doing.” he looked back at angry momma cat while he held out a glowing hand for Danny to take. And he did eyes glowing softly on both. “Hang out close on the roof. Things get shady. The boy flies up, you get out. But we need to wait till the doctors are ready to remove it. Sound fare luv?”

Selina glowered at him, “are you ok with that plan kitten?”

“Will Nightwing be there too?”

“Sure thing buddy.”

“Ok, I'll… I'm ok with it.”

“Alright, say goodbye to your friends then, you are grounded for the rest of the week.”

“yes mom.”

“You are not going to argue your punishment?”

“Robin!” Nightwing scolded.

“No? Why would I? The rule is if I set off the alarm I'm grounded. Where we have shielding in case the guys in white get too close.”

“Robin argues and sneaks out when he’s benched.” Superboy answered.

“Maybe Robin should take some notes from Schrodinger. It’s very mature of you to just accept responsibility and default to the rules like that. I’m proud of you.” Nightwing said. While Constantine scoffed.

“Do not act like you do not do the same still Nightwing.” Robin glared.

“I’m too old to be benched by dad. There’s a difference.”

“Torn acl.” Robin said with a glare, getting one in return. With Superboy ooooing.

“Enough, let’s go. We need to hurry so I can placate some other members of dark not in the know who freaked out at your little show.”

“Bye guys see you next week?” Danny said tentatively waving at his friends as they left.

“Bye Schrodinger!” Superboy waved.

“Alright boys lets get these little guys packed up for safe transport.” Ivy said, forming a broad bird cage out of her vines.

Chapter Text

Batman’s eyes narrowed in on John walking into the large hospital room with Nightwing. The two men a bit close in gait. His eyes narrowed in from the shadows of the corner on their hands closets to each other. John’s more noticeably curled around something. Nightwing signaled to him to not comment or draw attention to it.

“Where’s the kid?” Gordon asked.

“Home, resting. I got permission to handle it, so there is no hard feelings undoing his work.” John snipped. “Hurry up and get the docs up here. When they are ready I'll melt it and they can do what they need to do.” from the corner of Batman’s eye he caught the slight movement of Constantine's coat and the tightening of his hand minutely.

Gordon raised a brow at the attitude but did as asked, paging the nurse and letting them know they were ready to remove the ice for the doctors. John and Nightwing were forced closer to Gordon and Batman when the room filled with hospital staff. And Gordon caught on to Constantine's strange gait and the way his coat stuck to his side. He also made eye contact with the man himself, challenging him. He turned his attention back on the doctors working. Nivor was sedated but he wanted to make sure nobody did anything fishy.

“We’re ready here.” the head doctor said, looking between Gordon and the heroes. The severed arm pieces nearby on a medical tray.

“Alright,” John said before holding up a hand furthest from Nightwing and chanting a little show of light wafting from his hand as the ice melted away. Gordon and Batman caught the awkward placement of John’s hand trying to hide the two green/blue glowing dots just above hip height close to his coat. All the light disappears with the ice and John’s chanting. “We good here?”

“Yes thank you.” the doctor said. “We are moving the patient to OR now.” Gordon let the two officers outside the door know to follow and guard the OR till he came out.

Then Gordon turned back to the occupants still in the room. “And no more severed limbs in my city from little meta kids?” He caught John's trench coat moving to tuck in behind him, before Nightwing stepped forward partially in front of the other man’s arm. Nightwing's was angled back behind himself.

“We had a talk about not maiming with him. And I’ll be sure to have another at a later date just to reinforce it. He listens pretty good. So I do not think it will be an ongoing issue.” John snorted at Nightwing's words of a good listener getting his arm tugged very visibly.

“Maybe talk to his mom about a tetanus shot or rabies or something just in case too. Or whatever he might catch from that. Human blood is a biohazard. It doesn’t belong in kids' mouths.”

“Ya, be right sure to pass along the message. If that’s all I got shite to do, so I'll be off now as it were.” John said, staring at the man knowing what he was doing. And so did the kid who was getting scared. Last thing he needed was Batsy to do something stupid next.

“Right, sorry.” Gordon moved out of the way of the door and John headed for it with Schrodinger tight on his heels. He closed his eyes and let a breath out through his nose with his mouth pinched shut when he felt Nightwing following close. Kid wasn’t letting go of his brother, perfect, not weird sight at all.

“I’m heading out too. Catch you later commissioner.” Nightwing waved with his free hand. Gordon just snorted as they left. Closing the door behind them.

“You want to talk…” Gordon turned back to the room to find it empty and the window open. “I guess not.”

Chapter Text

“I heard you had a bit a kerfuffle my little raven.'' Ozzy said as Danny came into his club through the delivery entrance with Waylon not far behind carrying several crates. Danny was also carrying something with a little sheet over it. The young man seemed to have had time to change into some regular clothes after school before coming down. He got a little pouting face sticking out the side of parcel. Oswald laughed at that. “Remember the fat cats like to chatter. Are you all prepared for the evening?”

“Yeah. I brought you a present though. From the kerfluffer.'' He presented the parcel in his hands out towards the older man. “We can’t keep them cause Bud and Lou will probably eat them. Which is why mom says we don’t have a cat. Even though she really likes cats. She makes a lot of donations to the local cat shelter cause of that, she says.”

Oswald lifted the sheet to find two kakapo parrots sitting peacefully in their cage. Oswald gave a wide smile to the boy. “Oh what a fine present, thank you what a good little chick you are.” he pinched the boy's cheek expertly avoiding the tongue that stuck out to lick him. Wagging a tease of a scolding finger at him.

“We did a little research. There is a plant in here from Ivy. To produce special food for them during mating season, in case they are opposite gendered.” Waylon stated from behind Danny. Many of the kitchen and club staff gawking at the odd pair chatting away with their boss.

“Splendid, absolutely splendid. Candy my dear.” Oswald called out to his assistant at the club. “See to it please that these two lovely birdies make it to the aviary at the house. Along with the plant.'' Waylon set down the crates and began getting out the plant. And get Chickadee to research up on their unique needs please.``

“Of course Mr. Cobblepot." Candy said, taking the cage from Danny, another man taking the small tree.

“Thank you. Come along now like a good little duckling. I’ll give you a tour, we have a few hours before we open for the evening.” Oswald directed heading out of the back towards the main floor of the club.

“Go on. I’m gonna help get this stuff set up where it needs to be. I remember how.” Waylon waved him off to be by himself to work. Lester came up to Waylon to show him where Oswald had set aside for the scrambler, shield, and the equipment needed for Schrodinger to build a small ecto condenser. Where only Oswald, candy, and chickadee would be able to access it besides Danny.

Danny was quick to catch up with the older man and stuck close to his side looking around. The kitchen as they passed through. Many of them were trying not to look like they were staring when they were, at the odd sight of their boss leading around a small teenager.

“Have you had an after school snack yet my little fledgling?”

“No, Waylon doesn’t feel comfortable going through the drive thru.” Danny answered. “Had an ecto cooler though.”

“Margret,” Oswald waved over one of the women who worked the kitchen. “Can you make up something for my guests? Growing chicks need constant nourishment.”

“Of course sir. Right away.” She said before leaving them the door opening from the kitchen onto the main club floor.

Oswald smiled to himself when he heard the little fledgling gasp. “Are those penguins? Like real penguins?”

“Why yes they are. Go on ahead I'll catch up.” Oswald chuckled as he ran towards the pool in the middle with the penguins. The older man taking his time on the polished floor. His smile fell through when Danny started climbing on the metal railing “down from there fledgling. Flying skills or not. We don’t need you to startle them. No going for a swim the water is kept near freezing.”

“Polar plunge.”Danny cheered but climbed down. “That wouldn't be a problem for me though. I can handle really cold Temps.”

“How cold can you survive?” Penguin asked curiously.

“Far frozen regularly hits like negative 120 Celsius just need a jacket in human form. Ghost isn't bothered. Haven't come across colder yet.”

“I suppose not.” Oswald hummed. “Good to know though. If my birds get used to you, my little tundra bird could go for a swim sometime just fine.”

“Sweet!” Oswald opened a cooler nearby filled with fish. Allowing Danny to toss the fish why he named them and went over their personalities.

“And this trouble some lad is slippery Sam.” Oswald said about the large male bird who swam up to their position. “Much like yourself, he likes to cause mischief and can't seem to be contained.” Oswald waved his cane at the bird trying to shoo him from the edge. Danny giggled at that, tossing Sam a fish.

“Your mother mentioned you may be able to assist that little issue without ruining the aesthetic of the club. And perhaps elevating it.” Oswald tapped the simple black guard rail around the pool with his cane. It was a low metal rail so Oswald could see over it easily enough while standing next to it. With a second one dividing it. Sam would find his way both over the entire rail and sliding under the bottom rung even though he was assured that none of his birds would be able to get enough speed to even reach that height from the pool.

“Like with my ice?” Danny asked, looking around the rest of the club's decor and the iceberg in the middle. “I mean sure, but it gives off my ecto signature. The guys in white’s equipment would find it.”

“Yes, your mother stated as such, which makes the club perfect bait. Since it sits on the complete opposite side of the city from your roost.” Oswald smiled at him full of teeth. “Combined with the shielding technology we can turn it on and off at our leisure. There was also a note made of it being rather bullet proof in case some ruffians decide to make a scene. Keep my little birds safe. And if you are amicable maybe an update to the bar as well. Keep the staff there safe too?”

“Can I eat the old railing here? It’s going to use a lot of juice. And I’m still running low from my madagascar rescue with Superboy and Robin. Plus then you can decide if you like it and I can recharge more before we do the bar. And do people eat at the bar?” Danny asked, tilting his head looking at the enclosure.

“That sounds like a splendid idea, mind of Athena’s owl.” he brought a finger to his forehead. “And we do allow food to be served at the bar, we have a limited menu there, but will serve single meals if we are a bit bustling and it’s one or two patrons.”

Danny cringed. “Would you be up to changing the rules?”

“Possibly, what are your concerns?”

“Um, ecto gives off radiation. My ice isn’t going to give off more than what’s already here in Gotham, so it won’t hurt people, but Someone who is here a lot could boost their laminality, but that just means when they die they are more likely to turn into a ghost. Unless someone dies here. And their death might drain the ecto from everything to come back like a realms being. But then my ice will melt.”

“What kind of probability would you give that? Someone rebirthing like a phoenix as it were?”

“Lot’s of factors I guess? How laminal they are to start with? How much emotion was involved in their death. Lower on those slides less likely. But say it’s someone who works here after my ice is up, for like 10 years then they die and they feel they have more to do in life? That’d be like 90% younger they are when they start the higher the chance. Kids soak up ecto more easily. But working here with a lot of my ice. Good chance anyone who works here 10 years is at least a low level shade if they die with a lot of emotions.” Danny answered seriously, “but people aren't the issue. Uh, dead tissue tends to soak up high concentrations of ectoplasma where it’s condensed. Kind of like magnets. The echo of death on the meat draws the condensed ectoplasma. Which leads to reanimated food. And it’s usually very angry when it comes from the industrial food systems here in the states. One of the neighbors did a class on a farm where they learned to cull and process chickens along with care. They wanted to start a hobby farm till they took the class. But they couldn’t bring themselves to eat the one they did. So they gave it to my sister. And it reanimated but it wasn’t nearly as hostile as the ones from the grocery store. We ended up not being able to eat it either so we let it go in the woods just outside of town.”

Oswald blinked a few times processing Danny’s full explanation. “You… released… the reanimated corpse… of a rotisserie chicken… into the wild?” Oswald brought a couple of fingers to his lips curling them so only one was pressed to his lips. “Am I understanding that correctly?”

“Yeah. but it wasn’t arming itself and attacking us. It was just trying to do it’s own thing like a normal chicken. Without a head. Hotdogs are the most vicious. And will work with other hotdogs to build an army for attack. You don’t have hotdogs on the menu do you?” Danny asked, looking very concerned about there being hotdogs in the restaurant.

“I can tell you with 100% certainty there are no hot dogs in this establishment. And I will be working with Candy, and Mavis to switch us as much as possible to sustainable local farms for suppliers. Is this a concern for the whole restaurant?” Oswald asked carefully. Selina had left out a lot of information.

“No, just food that gets set directly on it. And it needs to sit there for a little bit. And only meat, dairy and vegetables are safe.” Danny answered.

“Then the bar will be set up with a limited vegetarian tapa menu when we get to that point. Paloma and Alouette will be most pleased with that change actually. They’ve had many complaints of cleaning spilled bird crumbs on their bar.” Oswald chuckled. None of that was difficult to work around and the change could bring in some nice pr for the lounge. Yes. a nice presser about sustainability. Mavis might have a few complaints about stifling his vision with the menu, but the seasonal changes might be just the thing he needs to really push his skills.

While they were discussing the things Oswald was hoping they could incorporate into the railing first, Margret and Corbin came out with several platters of offerings and drinks. Including some of Louis sarsaparilla which Danny quickly grabbed off the bar counter where Margret set it happily drinking from it. Oswald chuckled watching how happy the little fledgling was with his drink. While Margret poured him a glass of wine. Corbin laid out the platters on the counter. Margret had put a plate in front of each of them to place the samplings on. She let them know what each was when Corbin put them down. “We have some assorted fruit, fried veggie chips with a seasoning that head chef Mavis insisted on, and a small selection of sandwiches, including tuna salad, roast turkey with a cranberry aioli, and steak tip served medium with a cognac peppercorn pan sauce sir.”

“Thank you dear. Eat as much as you like…” Oswald took in Danny lifting the top of the bread off the steak sandwich he had grabbed first. “Is something wrong? Are you a vegetarian?”

“No, I've just never seen a steak sandwich like this, it’s like a steak steak cut up on a fancy bun.”

“What is steak steak?” Oswald chuckled. “What kind of steak sandwiches have you had?”

“Like a Philly cheese steak.”

“That is not steak. It is cheap beef smothered in cheese and peppers to make it palatable. This is much better. Mavis takes trimmings off more prime cuts to make these, to reduce waste. What goes out on the dinner service must look uniform. Much less so for these. He chooses the breads from a bakery a few blocks down to compliment each type of filling. Was Mr. Jones provided a more substantial snack?”

“Mavis is working on a tomahawk personally sir at the moment for Mr. Jones.”

“Good. see to it not to skimp on the fixings for him. He could use the extra energy I'm sure. Since I do believe our little fledgling not only had his wings clipped but is on a leash for the evening?” Oswald asked, looking at Danny. Who gave a sheepish smile, mouth full of food.

“Of course sir.” with that Margret and Corbin left to eat in peace.

“Enjoying the steak sandwich?” Oswald smiled seeing it was gone already. He decided to go with a turkey one and steak himself. Along with some of the berries and though he fried the veggie chips a bit childish, considering his company, and Mavis did make them taste delicious. Danny was kicking his legs happily while eating his next sandwich. He did lift the bun off the top of his tuna sandwich and shoved a handful of the veggie chips on top before putting the top back on and eating it.

“This one tastes different than any tuna salad I've had before.” Danny said once he had a few bites of it.

“I’m sure considering your upbringing. That is not made with canned tuna, but fresh from damaged tuna filets that are not fit for dinner service. Seasoned and marinated before the grilling process.” he took in Danny’s opened mouthed gaping. “You are not a barn swallow young man. Close your mouth when you have food in it. Less you catch flies.”

“You can get tuna not in a can? How is tuna a steak?”

“I will send some home with you so your mother may educate you, because those questions have me concerned for your palette.” Oswald picked up the bowl of berries, placing some on Danny’s plate and adding a dollop of the thickened cream sauce presented with them. “Make sure to try a little of everything. You need the variety to grow a nestling.”

“Any food I don't have to fight is good food.” Danny said, easily stabbing the biggest strawberry and dipping it with his fork to eat.

Oswald chuckled again. “I’m sure.”

Once they had finished eating. Oswald stood by and watched, a bit shocked as Danny ate two supports and their cross braces, easily pulling them out of the resin coated concrete floor. Oswald tossed fish to distract any of his birds who got too curious of his work and new opening. Once they were gone he put two ice spikes where the posts were once standing a frosted finish on them making them like a cloudy opaqueish crystal. Then between them a nice panel of crystal clear ice with a bit of the cloudiness as it got to the corners around the posts. Helping them to blend both texturally and with the curvatures and smaller ice spikes around the floor at those points creeping up. But it kept the bulk of the center of the panels clear. The new barrier was about 6” taller than the last one. “Very nice little raven.” Oswald raised his cane up holding the tip up to a bit above the new ice window. “Could you bring it up to this height? That should keep slippery Samuel in.”

“Sure.” Danny did just that, changing the scaling on the other elements just a tad. Adding a top edge to match the ‘poles’ a gentle curve out that matched the pool's outline. “Still kinda looks weird.”

“Yes, too tall and not long enough in paneling. Lets take out the next two and widen this one instead of trying to match the old railings posts.” Danny did just that, making quick work of more of the railing and stretching the panel of ice. “Ah much better. Wonderful. Truly exquisite.” he tapped the ice with his cane. A deep chime ringing, not unpleasant or loud. “Will you be able to put in an access door?

“Yeah super easy. A winter glove when opening it would probably be best though.”

“Perfectly acceptable. Take as much time as you need. We don’t open till 10 tonight due to renovations.” Oswald had a chair brought over to sit in while Danny worked. Offering critique as needed. By the time Waylon finished and came out to join them the railing had been completed along with the door. And an artistic ice chandelier had encased the previous overhead lighting for the pool. As the light refracted through the ice it made an aurora borealis effect along the surface while allowing the bright light to still come through and not confuse the birds too much.

“Damn kiddo, you looking to be an artist?” Waylon asked, some happy clicks leaving his throat at the sight of their project.

“Not particularly? But it should look nice if people are gonna like intentionally look at it though right?”

“It should, but this is well beyond looking nice. Well done. If we get this mess with government cleared up enough, I would highly suggest marketing your interior decorating skills. The Gotham elite would eat this up like a raptor for a holiday gala.”

“I hate Christmas.” Danny pouted.

Chapter Text

“Hey dad you miss me?” was shouted just as a portal opened in the middle of crime alley and two green blurs shot out. The larger one Cujo tackling Hood off the roof they had been on to the side of the building across from them. Luckily an empty condemned apartment building. The second smaller one Hood caught sight of once Cujo shrank punching Danny in the head.

“What the fuck is up with this family and head shots! Down Cujo go home!” Jason barked at the dog shoving at him. “Kids quit fighting in the street! Ellie get on the roof and switch to your human form.” Jason projected his ghost speech as best as he could, a lot of annoyed and concern coming through and scolding. Lot’s of scolding. He was getting confusion in return from a new ghost, and audacity. love/happy/miss/confusion/audacity/you know?/like us/not the boss. Jason frowned at the last bit he got. Danny answered with amusement/family/like us/family/love/baby. “I am not a baby! Don’t think I can’t pick up what you're saying just cause Iol can’t project back that clearly!"

“That’s our uncle good.” Danny answered, wrapping his arms around his little sister and flying them both up to the roof tops while Jason wrestled Cujo. Fraid/love/family

Jason wrestled Cujo till the pup was excitedly staying in his arms. Getting hit with fraid/fraid/fraid by Ellie till he felt that same weird grasps in his core that felt like a warm welcome and a hug. He shook his head but accepted the fraid bond easily enough as he grappled to the roof. Feeling it set and getting a even clearer understanding of her emotions and feelings. The excitement/happiness/family/love/wanted/wanted/safe

“Yeah kiddo, you're wanted. Nice to meet you finally.” Jason said once on the roof, setting down Cujo. To get tackled by his new little sister in a big hug. He wrapped his arms around her.

“You’re Jason?”

He shushed her. “Yeah, but you gotta call me Hood when I got the helmet on.”

“OK, well I have a message for you from Dan.”

“Su… Umph.” Jason grunted again when he hit the wall of the staircase on the roof they were on.

“Get good little bitch!” Ellie and Danny were both cackling, holding their own stomachs. Jason was holding his own from the ectoblast. Trying to get air back in his lungs. The shock and lack of urgency helped keep his wits better. He needed air to speak though. Or… he made only had one thought though to really project, revenge/revenge/revenge

“Run run! Follow me.” Danny laughed heading for the house. Ellie's hand gripped in his floating while Danny dragged her across crime alley with Red Hood hot on their tails.

Chapter Text

Jason was in the kitchen making dinner while the sirens doted on their new daughter in the living room. Grundy and Waylon were also over to meet her.

“Are all kids that small? Or just hers?” Croc asked, watching Ellie roll on the floor with Bud and Lou. Danny close by petting Cujo. And the siren’s huddled close on the couch and Harley on the floor too.

“Danny is in a low percentile. Good bet Ellie is too. Genetics might play into it. Selina has a pretty slight frame. No idea about her other donor. Or what the aging up process of cloning does to those kids, but …”

He looked over to Croc staring back with confusion. “Where did I loose ya?”

“I have no clue what a percentile is man.”

“Kids are small for their age, Danny is average for a 10 year old. He's 13. Ellie is probably close to the same pattern. Kids are small, they are smaller. You’re not crazy.”

Croc watched Jason cook for a few minutes. The pot roast was doing its own thing in the oven but he was making mashed potatoes and pan fried tofu and eggplant to go with it. Mostly so Ivy had something to go on her quinoa salad with substance and the kids would eat it too. “You were small too right? It’s been years, but you were that little robin, after the first one was gone?”

Jason sighed, “yeah that was me.”

“The kids have a chance right? If you got to get big, I mean everyone is small compared to me but kids are so small.” Jason took in the way Croc was staring at his hands, and the rolling emotions and anxiety,, the way he was holding them.

He waved Grundy over to the stove. “Watch this.” Hood said to the zombie as he took Croc by the hand and led him out back to the alley through the wall. “What the hell happened today? Are you ok?”

“I… I had a thing I needed to do and on the way there, I… a man was dumping bodies in the sewers. They were so small, Jason, couldn’t have been bigger than Danny. I don’t know if he was a cleaner or …” Croc seemed shaken. “He can’t tell us now… but they were so small… I buried them. There was an empty lot nearby. I knew I took them two kids. I buried them…”

“They are going to grow up Waylon.” Jason said, squeezing the man's hands. “Danny and Ellie are going to grow up. We are gonna make sure of it. Ellie is with us now she’s safe. You did good by those kids. Cleaner or not he got what he deserved and you did right. And we are going to do right by these kids and make sure they grow up.”

Waylon nodded along a bit, just holding Jason’s hands before he squeezed them. “I got a friend back in arkham. She’s… she’s got a kid. Around Danny’s age. I’ve been checking in on her. Making sure she’s ok. Dad’s not in the picture. That’s where I went today. I’m sorry it was just…”

“You don’t need to apologize for having seen some bad shit. And having a human reaction to it, Waylon. That’s normal and good. It’s ok to be upset and need some support.” Jason corrected him. “How’s your friend's kid? She need help?”

“She seems to be doing ok. Best she can be. She goes to Danny’s school. In the boarding program there. She got a scholarship from that Wayne foundation. Kept her out of the orphanages. She’s small too. Not as small as them but…” Croc's voice cracked a bit.

“How about you spend the night tonight? You shouldn't be alone after something like that. Bet the kids would love it.”

“I can’t crowd them…”

“Please like they’d care. Let’s go back in. I’ll see if we are having what I was making for dinner, after dinner settle down with the kids and ladies. And I'll take care of the asking part.”

You sure it’s ok?” Croc asked.

“Waylon, Danny loves cuddling, Ellie I'm sure does too. You need some cuddles.” Jason said unabashedly before freezing. “We are going to ignore I said that. That sounded…”

“Sweet.” Waylon finished with a low chuckle.

“I am not sweet. I am a scary violent crime lord.” Jason argued. “My reputation is tanking as it is.”

“I’ll keep your secrets. But thanks man.” Waylon pulled Jason into a bear hug. “I think you like cuddles too. And could use a few more.”

“I do not! Put me down! Before someone sees.”

“I don’t got your empath powers, but I got good hearing. And your little buzzer says you like it.”

“I hate everyone and everything. What you hear is burning rage!”

“Happy little bee buzz buzz buzz.”

“I will cut off your tail and feed it to the kids.”

“Alright cranky pants. Thanks though.” Waylon set Jason back down. But left his hand on his shoulder to walk back into the kitchen through the wall. To find thankfully dinner not burned. Grundy having enough ideas to turn down the heat on everything.

Waylon made his way to the living room to sit on the floor to immediately being covered in kids and dogs. Grundy chuckled. Projecting his gratitude. “Yeah, keep an eye on him.” Jason said temp checking the food and pulling it out. “Hey Croc's spending the night tonight. Make him a bed.” Jason shouted. “Dinners ready when you are done.”

“Wait like a sleepover?” Ellie asked climbing over Waylon accidentally crushing his nuts. Harley cackled and Selina picked her up so Waylon could handle himself.

“Yeah sure.”

“Yes!” Ellie cheered. “First sleepover!”

“Come on, I’ll show you how to make an awesome pillowfort!” Danny said, taking off to his bedroom Ellie hot on his heels.

“Not small enough I guess Waylon.” Jason said, pulling the roast to start to cool. Waylon held up a middle finger from the floor.

“I’ll get you some ice.” Ivy said with a chuckle. Her vines already working to get the table set. The kids back down through the ceiling carrying Danny’s mattress and a whole lot of bedding. Some of which Jason recognized from the ladies ‘playroom closet.’ Hopefully Waylon didn’t question any of the staining or the wedge pillow with cuffs attached to it. Selina seemed to recognize the bedding too and took away anything a little too rough for house guests. The kids pulled all the cushions off the couch and started moving furniture around to lift the bed sheets to make a tent. Some of Danny’s ice making a show as supports too. Selina wrapped an arm around Waylon once he was able to roll over and get off the floor. Grundy got out Bud and Lou's food and now also Cujo’s. only way to keep him from phasing food through the table from their plates.

“Mom, are you going to sleep in the fort too?” Ellie asked, popping her head up literally vibrating with excitement. Jason caught the glistening of tears at the corner of Selina’s eyes. Along with the rolling emotional turmoil. Matching Waylon's a bit even if it was for wildly different reasons. “Yeah sweetheart. I wouldn’t miss out on being a part of your first sleepover.”

“We need more pillows then can we get yours?” Danny asked. Tumbling out of the fort. “Come on Ellie.” Danny took off again.

“Have shorter stack pick a room to call her own!” Harley shouted out. Throwing an arm around Selina in support both her and Waylon hugging her tight. “See? Ya didn’t miss everything lady." Harley kissed Selina’s cheek.

“Let’s help set the table.” Selina said, wiping at the corner of her eyes.

“Go pick out a wine for us tonight.” Ivy said. “Harley can you get the kids drinks?”

“You got it!” Jason got the roast all carved up and Grundy moved it to the table and kept guard from all the mutts till the kids got back down stairs. And for a small moment Jason wished the batfamily could have had meals like this at some point too. Before brushing the thought away as wishful thinking.

Chapter Text

Duplicat.

This little shit, had been here for less than a day. Shown up at his safe house with her brother in another cat themed fucking vigilante suit to match her brother. Even if the undersuit was too baggy. He was gonna have to call Alfred again. And straight faced that fucking name introduction to him.

God Jason hoped he wasn't projecting his emotions, the helmet useless in the face of their power. Kids grins growing unnervingly wide and eyes too thin and long to be human telling him that probably wasn't the case. He stood up quickly knocking over his chair he'd been sitting in cleaning his guns.

"I'm gonna drown some fucking kittens in the god damn Gotham river you two little shits!…" The kids dropped through the floor, their laughter haunting his apartment long after they were out of sight.

He took his helmet off so he could run his hand over his face roughly pushing back his white bangs. Those kids were going to put him back in his grave. “I gotta call Leslie to get snipped.” he picked his chair back up, sat down with a deep sigh, and continued prepping his weapons for the night.

Chapter Text

Robin found himself once again with Superboy waiting outside crime alley on the night Schrodinger was to be released from his punishment. Though Superman and Batman had been disappointed to know the punishment had not been for the maiming. Jon had shared he had been given orders from his father to prevent any such actions in the future.

Jon had also gone on to explain his father's rantings of why a cannibal was not a good babysitter to his mother. Which Damian found to be an unwarranted complaint. Schrodinger hadn't ate the man's limb.

Damian didn't turn his head towards the direction he knew Schrodinger was coming from but also knew that Superboy hadn't noticed him yet either. For training purposes, Damian decided to flare his cape in that direction making out the batcode for being spotted with his now visible hand. It would test Schrodinger's ability to catch the cue and let him fully direct himself on Superboy. Hopefully Jon would catch on before contact was made. But he doubted it.

“Superboy you need to work on your observation skills.” is the only warning he gives Superboy before turning and making a grab for his invisible assailant, to his shock though as he grabbed the invisible target to flip over him Jon goes down hard against the rooftop. But his own assailant catches him off guard wrapping their legs around his middle and the wrist he knows he was holding disappears to wrap around him to pinning his upper arms. It takes all of his skill to keep upright. But Schrodinger has never touched him without permission before and he finds himself both a bit speechless and uncomfortable. However he is able to hold back from snapping immediately as a little girl comes into view smiling up at him from his chest. He does however glower at the glowing smile directed at him.

“Hi I’m Duplicat!” Schrodinger slowly appeared helping pull Jon to his feet from where the boy had taken down the super.

“Sorry she wanted the hard one of you guys to sneak up on.” Danny said with a sheepish hand on the back of his head. “And you lost! I pick breakfast! You’re not hurt right? I didn’t want you to swing on her by mistake.”

“Hello, I am Robin, release me now.” Damian said very slowly and clearly trying to sound calm but firm. The girl giggled but let him go and dropped to her feet.

“I’m fine.'' Jon said dusting himself off till Duplicat walked up to him with a hand extended. Jon went to take it. “I’m Superboy”

“Do not fake him out. They aren’t ghosts.” Danny warned her before she could grab Superboy's hand.

“He feels like a parker.” Ellie thumbed over her shoulder at Robin.

“Yeah but he’s not. He’s human and squishy. And doesn’t like hugging.”

“He does, he just gets overwhelmed.” Ellie announced much to Jon's gaping.

“I do not!” Robin snapped.

Schrodinger laughed, but did try to scold his sister. “Duplicat, we talked about this, you have to respect their verbal words, not the emotional ones. Human rules.”

“Blarg boring! So where are these bat people we are hanging out with?” Duplicat whined looking around with her hands on her hips.

“I am a member of the bats.” Robin informed her.

She tilted her head sideways at an almost broken looking angle. “I thought you said your name was Robin?'' She turned to look at Danny. “A Robin is a bird right?”

“Yes, a Robin is a bird. However the Robins hold a long tradition of being the apprentice to batman.”

“Batman is Hood’s Plasmius right?” Ellie asked Danny.

He gave her a so-so motion. “Close enough. I don’t think he’s a fruitloop outright. Everyone says he has a sugar daddy.”

“Batman doesn’t have a sugar daddy.” Robin corrected sharply. “Do not spread such false allegations.”

“Fine. fruit loop then. Yes. that’s his Plasmius, just like I guess if he had actually forced me to be his son. And without the cloning replacement. Unless… none of you guys are clones of the early Robins are you Hood hasn’t said any of you are but just checking for clarity..” Danny asked.

“No! None of the Robins are clones! Father doesn’t have nor will he ever have cloning technology!" Damian said sharply. “Who is this Plasmius you speak of? Your comparisons normally lack any type of accuracy.”

“My mom.” Ellie said easily. “He’s a nut job fruitloop obsessed with my template.”

“Batman is not a villain! Nor obsessed with teenagers!”

“Hood says Batman kidnapped him as a kid and made him into Robin after the first one refused to do it anymore and made him his son. Sounds like mom to me.”

“Is that how your dad got Hood?” Jon asked, a bit shocked.

“No!”

“Then how did Jason end up as Batman's son? And Robin?” Danny asked, hands on his hips all smug.

“I do not know! But that can not be correct. There is a file though and I can access it and read it to you.” The three other teens gathered around Robin as he pulled up his wrist computer.

“Dude! Tuck would die to have that!” Ellie said excitedly. “Can you guys build that?”

“I have no idea, with what we have access to probably not. It’ll be too bulky.” Schrodinger answered honestly.

“Here is the report from Hood’s first meeting with Batman.” Robin said reading quickly to get ahead of the others. Frown deepening.

“That looks like a nice way of putting kidnapping.”

“He was taken in for his own well being.”

“Uh Robin…” Superboy said in a strained tone, “that is kind of…”

“It is not kidnapping.”

“What’s it say happened to the first Robin?” Danny and Ellie both asked, arms crossed looking smug.

“Nightwing was needed to lead the teen titans. He did not refuse to be Robin.”

“Are you sure about that? I think we should ask him.” Danny asked smuggly.

Robin glared him down. “Fine.” Robin hit his com.

“What’s up baby bat? Everything ok?”

“Nightwing, please inform Schrodinger and Duplicat that you passed the mantle of Robin down to Hood.”

“Duplicat? Is that Schrodinger’s sister?” Nightwing asked.

“Yes.”

“Oh, turn on your tracker. I gotta meet her. Schrodinger! Why didn’t you tell me she got here safe and sound? How much did Hood hate that name?”

“He said he was gonna drown us in the Gotham river.” Ellie laughed out. Superboy gasped out in shock at her words.

“Enough, Nightwing, tell them…”

“No can do baby bat. Cause I did not.”

“Then our grandfather…”

“Nope. Big B did.'' Nightwing cut his brother off sharply. Robin’s frown deepened. “What’s this about kiddos?”

“Hood said Batman kidnapped him and made him Robin because you refused to be Robin anymore and made him his son. Robin says that’s not true.” Schrodinger said smile growing and sharp teeth poking out. Ellie was looking just as smug.

“I mean that is a very unnuanced take. But that tracks. He did like being Robin though. And being Batman's son at first. I have been told multiple times that me moving out on my own had nothing to do with Hood becoming the second Robin but I'm not sure how much truth is in that. Can’t prove it either way.”

“Tsk.” the kittens broke off into laughter.

“I like you already Nightwing.” Ellie said, holding her sides from laughing.

“Why? Where did this come from?”

“Batman is just like Duplicat’s mom.” Schrodinger said.

“The Fruitloop? Wha… no… no… Hood didn’t mean it like that!” both kittens started laughing. “Ugh, no! I’m coming to you guys! Don’t go too far.”

Damian looked done already with tonight's dramatics. They haven’t even started patrol yet. “Wanna make him work for it?” Schrodinger asked.

“Nightwing is Hood’s Jazz right?” Duplicat asked.

“Yep,” Danny answered with a pop of a p.

“Who’s Jazz?” Superboy asked.

“Our big sister. She can be overbearing in trying to be helpful. And muck things up.” Duplicat said.”this city is way bigger than your old one. We can probably drag out hide and seek for days.”

“Weeks probably.” Schrodinger laughed. “But we have a curfew.”

“Considering Nightwing didn’t correct you both, I am ok with avoiding him.”

“You’re mad he told the truth?” Superboy asked.

“He admits it’s the not the full truth.” Robin said. Making sure his tracker is off. “Let us patrol and see how long we can evade him. It will be good training.”

“Sweet! Let’s do this!” Duplicat cheered.

“Their parent’s don’t like how Hood does things. So no punching humans. We play like we do with our friends. They just end up in cuffs.” Schrodinger informed his sister. She went to open her mouth. “Human friends.”

“Fine! Party pooper!”

Superboy gave Schrodinger a look of concern. Danny just waved him off. “She’s fine. You want to lead the way Robin?”

“Yes, before Nightwing shows.” Robin pulled his grapple ready to leave the start of the night behind. All three teens followed his lead without further prompting.

Chapter Text

“Stop moving around!”

“Or you can do better?” Schrodinger said into Robin’s ear. All four kids were invisible sitting on top of a water tower watching Nightwing trying to find a trail of them from the goons they had left tied up outside a chop shop. The gcpd was just now getting on scene.

“I must agree, Nightwing. Your rushing has made you sloppy.” Robin scolded his brother.

“Huh, he’s taller than Hood made him sound like? Wait, doesn't Jazz have a picture of him on her wall?” Ellie asked, taking in Nightwing from their perch.

“Probably, I don’t pay attention to her stuff. Pharohtech was ribbing the girls about him. I think he’s her hero crush.”

“Your sister has a crush on Nightwing?” Jon asked.

“Can we change the subject please.” both Nightwing and Robin asked.

“I want to meet Duplicat.” Nightwing pouted doing a wide circle turn seeing if he could tempt the kids with his pout.

Ellie stood up, dropping Jon’s hand on Danny’s shoulder so he’d stay invisible. She rooted inside herself till she found what she was looking for. Smirking broadly to herself. She pulled out a small balloon. Danny recognized it from them painting her first bedroom with Aunt Harley. He chuckled his grin splitting his face widely. “Alright Nightwing, we'll send you a hint. Hope you catch it. But be quick. Not the head.” Danny directed the last sentence to her. As she pulled back and tossed her paint balloon at the hero. A half block away.

“Kitten no glitter, please.” Dick turned looking around, only to get nailed in the chest. The paint exploded all over his torso and chin. Giving him a purple shadow of a goatee. And knocking him back a step. He let out a world weary sigh. “Thank you for not using glitter.” he mumbled but headed to the direction it came from ignoring the laughing crooks and cops. Two sets of glowing green eyes coming into view along with Robin and Superboy. The kittens rolling in laughter on the water tower.

“That was a shameful display. We had three cases and you were still unable to dodge her attack.” Robin scolded once dick was on the tower with them.

“Don’t care.” Dick turned right to Duplicat and held out his arms, “can I hold the new kitten?” Ellie was up in an instant throwing herself into his arms with a laugh. Jon and Damian both grabbed Nightwing so he wouldn't topple off the edge. “Oh my god you two are twinsies.” He cooed. “That's so adorable.”

“Tsk, you have now smeared paint on her as well, Nightwing.”

“No big deal.” Schrodinger said with a shrug, hugging Nightwing and his sister.

“Uh what's that noise? In your chests?”

“OH you can hear it too? It's our cores.”

“You made a different sound on the train.” Superboy said, looking at them.

“Yeah cause I was mad. Right now she's trying to make a fraid bond with Nightwing but he can't reciprocate yet.”

“What is a fraid bond?” Robin asked.

“Marking him as family.” Ellie said cheerily. “Ours like uncle Hood and Uncle Grundy.”

“More like mom, Harley and Ivy. He doesn't have enough ecto. So it's more like a cat when they rub on stuff.” Danny clarified.

Nightwing was caught between being absolutely elated and watching Robin with extreme caution.

“Why would you mark a stranger as family?” Robin asked, confused.

“He's not a stranger, he's just new to me!” Ellie said excitedly. “Templates fraid is my fraid! No take backs.” Danny snorted. “Plus the only uncle I had before was Frighty, now I got 5!”

“Shouldn't you ask first?” Jon asked, looking between Robin and Nightwing and the kittens. “Make sure it’s ok? Before you do that?”

“I mean Nightwing projects his feelings really loudly.” Ellie answered

“Like he's basically screaming mine and love as soon as he got on the roof. And it just got louder when she hugged him.”

Nightwing flushed a bit at being so transparent. He'd need to rein that in. Robin was glaring at him. “Tsk, shameful Nightwing. I thought you of all our siblings would be least likely to follow in fathers footsteps.”

“Hey! I'm just being supportive.” he pulled Ellie off him, turning her around to face the boy's lion king style. “Look how adorable the little twinsies kittens are.” Ellie for her part made her eyes large and sparkly and stuck out past her mask giving an anime style appearance. Her grin grows wide and sharp when Superboy backed up at the ‘cute’ face.

Damian raised his eyebrow enough to raise the mask on that side. “We will see what the others think of your behavior. As territorial as Hood is he might not appreciate you taking his sidekicks.”

That sent both Danny Ellie into laughing fits. Duplicat phased through Nightwing's hands from laughing so hard. “I think it’s fine if I steal his sidekicks. Turnabout is fair play. But if anyone is stealing his side kicks it’s you.”

“We aren’t his sidekicks. We’re just friends.” Danny said getting control of himself. Damian flushed red a bit. And Jon smiled nodding along.

“Thought you were here to defend Batman’s honor anyway?” Duplicat got out climbing back to her feet and phasing the paint off herself. Nightwing pouted at her.

“Yes, sorta,” Nightwing knelt down to be face level with Danny and Ellie, “ok I don’t know what you guys were talking with Hood about…”

“We asked him how he got adopted by Batman.” both kids said in synchrony, getting a frown Damian and a creased brow from Jon.

“Well ok, but he wasn’t trying to compare Batman to the man who you two call fruitloop. Or mom. That is not the same situation at all. Batman doesn’t stalk kids and try and force them to be his kids or side kicks. That’s Hood’s anger letting you guys think that. All of us have our issues with our dad. But that doesn’t mean he is abusive like fruitloop. Or its ok for Hood to let you think that about him.”

“So he’s abusive in other ways?” Danny asked.

“He is not abusive.” Damian said. “He is just usually at odds with most of my siblings and tends to be dismissive rather of opinions he opposes.”

“And throws out his unwanted mistakes when they aren’t perfect?” Ellie asked.

“Wow. Hood sure is sharing his feelings with the sirens.” Jon said to Damian who frowned deeper.

“Kittens, hey, B has hurt a lot of us emotionally. Because he’s our dad. And it hurts when he doesn’t approve of us. And even though I know it’s how Hood feels about it. He doesn’t leave any of us out to die. He’s just emotionally stunted like the rest of us and it’s a bad mix. He used to take away our positions as Robin. When we were kids. Yes, at simple mistakes. In his mind though those simple mistakes could cost us our lives. And makes him snap at us cause he was scared. But he didn’t abandon us for them. Even if that’s how it felt to us when it happened. And it still hurts. A lot of us haven’t really moved past those moments cause yeah he ignores how it hurt us. And Hood never got to work past that moment for him. Because he died. So that’s why he’s so angry about it. And he’s not wrong to be angry. And Batman hasn’t done enough to reach out to fix things with Hood. I will wholeheartedly admit it. But he isn’t going out of his way to intentionally hurt his own kids. It’s ok if you don’t like Batman for your own reasons. It shouldn’t be because of a false comparison to your abuser and then being allowed to make assumptions about him based on actions he never did.” Nightwing sighed at the now 4 very quiet kids in front of him. He stood up taking a hand from Ellie and Danny. “I think my little lecture just killed the mood around here. So how about let’s take an ice cream break. Then we can go find more people doing bad things to set straight. How about that?”

“Ok,” “sorry.”

“You don’t need to be sorry. You were being set up. And that wasn’t ok for Hood to do.” Nightwing turned to Robin and Superboy. “You two ok with a break?” He gave them an easy smile too. This probably wasn’t the plan for Schrodinger's first day off grounding let alone their first meeting with Duplicat. Or his. And Hood was going to hear about it.

“I’d never say no to ice cream. But I didn't bring money with me.” Superboy answered.

“It’s my treat to all of you.” Nightwing said. Damian just gave a nod of his head in agreement. He got Danny to lean in for a one arm hug and grabbed Damian to ruffle his hair. Even if the boy immediately pulled away. “Alright, who wants to pick the place?”

“I will. Try to keep up.” Robin answered by taking out his grappling hook.

Chapter Text

“What the fuck Goldie! You trying to get shot?” Jason groaned and rolled over pulling the pillow over his head sticking the gun back under the other one. “I just got to lay down.”

“Yes I know you had school drop off duty.” Dick said making a ton of noise dragging a folding chair from the safe house kitchen to the bedroom hitting it on the dresser bed door frame as he set it up. “But we need to talk about you pushing your issues with B on the kids.”

“Fucking Christ.” Jason grumbled. “You gotta do this right now really?” He grabbed the other pillow and stuck it on top of the other one already smothering his head.

“Yeah right now.” Dick started kicking the bed. “I’ll start singing T-Swift at the top of my lungs till everyone knows this building is occupied. What you did was fucking wrong and you know it.”

“I do not need to explain myself to you Dick hole.” Jason threw one of the pillows at his brother before throwing his pistol too. Dick shook out his hand where he tried to block it. Making a loud thump as it hit the floor.

“You do when you hurt OUR siblings Jason! They have enough issues with B. You distorting the truth to make them even more scared of him is not helping a damn thing! Nor is it helping foster a sense of safety for them in the city. They aren’t going to learn to trust B with you doing shit like that!”

“They don’t need to trust him!” Jason angrily threw his last pillow at Dick .

“You and the siren’s can not handle all of this on your own! The only way the kids are truly safe is all of us working together. B is working on their case! He’s trying here. The least you can do is not twist your words to position them against him.”

“I didn’t twist shit!”

“They were comparing B to the man who made Ellie and hurt Danny because of your fucked up explanation. You didn’t feel up to talking about it, you needed to tell them that. Don’t fucking bullshit me! I’m not even going to ask you to admit you fucked up. Cause I don’t care about that. But you are going suck up your bruised fucking ego and apologies to the kids and tell them at the very least that’s not how you meant it.”

“I thought you set them straight already?! What you need me to rehash my life for! Since you like to tell them how it was for me!” Jason growled but bluntly refused to get out of the bed. He wasn’t letting Dick have that one.

“B didn’t stalk, torture and clone you asshole! You don’t want to share your life story with them then don’t! But do not fucking make B out to be that kind of a monster! He’s an egotistical ass with control issues with plenty of faults, but he isn’t that kind of monster! And you are not going to make him out to be to our baby siblings! He has enough of a hill to climb of his own doing. What was your goal there? Huh? What were you getting out of telling them that?”

“Just because they tagged you with a parental bond that doesn’t make you mine! So quit telling me what to do! You aren…”

“They what?” Dick asked suddenly hit out of nowhere by that statement with some strong feelings. Some of which he was pretty sure was panic.

“Fuck…” Jason dragged his hand down his face. “Did they not tell you? Cause they excitedly would not shut up at home about it.”

“Family! They said a fraid bond was family and they were marking me as family like a cat!” Dick squawked dramatically though he had a bit of panic internally still.

“Stop, it’s not parent parent. It’s, fuck, it’s so complicated. And I'm too tired. Stop panicking!

“Cause that’s how you get someone to stop panicking is yelling at them! And I'm not, I'm just confused and …”

“And panicking! They see you as an adult. Someone to look up to so you get a more serious bond though. You can’t return it and finish it so it’s not that big of a deal. They don’t see you as a dad or parent. They were calling you Uncle Night. And Uncle Tasty.”

“What the fuck does that mean?!”

“That you are an emotional roller coaster! Ghost shit is different Dick ! They aren’t looking to you as a father figure. They just see you as an adult family member or a long lasting member. Fraid bonds can change and come and go easily. What the kids call a parental fraid bond is harder to just get rid of and allows some power transfer or connection or something between the parent and the kid ghost. In your case it just means they aren’t letting you go. Grundy and Waylon have the same. Only Grundy can return it. Family is important to the kids. God would you just fucking cry or scream or something already you are giving me a headache!” Jason threw himself back on his bed covering his face with both his hands. Trying to push out all of Dick emotions it was swirling into a disgusting 7/11 suicide slushy. “What do I have to say for you to leave. I can’t handle you anymore. I’m gonna snap. I am too tired for this.”

“Say you will correct their misconceptions. And give me a hug. I want to hug my little brother cause I can’t just cuddle the kittens right now. And I want to cuddle the kittens. It’s not fair you are the one who gets to when you are the prick one.”

“I think you mean prickly.”

“I said what I said.”

“Whatever.” Jason threw one arm out to the side. “Just fucking do it so I can sleep. And I will tell them I was too brief in explaining.” Jason was not prepared for Dick to fucking body slam him with a hug. He shoved Dick off the side of his bed. “Fucking Dick !”

“That’s my name, I expect you to follow thru or I will haunt you Jaybird.” Dick said, making a quick exit.

“You could have tossed me back my pillows fucking asshole!” Jason yelled after his brother getting up to grab his tossed bedding.

Chapter Text

“But I wanted to fight a turkey!” Ellie cried. Tears streaming down her red blotchy face. Items all over the house vibrating and falling. her form started to melt a bit as she kicked and screamed on the floor.

Croc and Jason were both holding their ears. Harley was damn near crying begging pose next to her tantrumming niece. Danny was looking at everyone nervously while patting his clone's arm.

“Maybe just once wouldn’t be so bad…” Danny spoke up finally. “She's really disappointed. I didn't know she wanted to do it so bad.”

“After your stories sounding like war flash backs fuck no!” Hood answered then winced when Ellie cried harder.

“Kitten, what about a compromise? Something smaller?” Selina pleaded.

“Chickens put up a fight.” Danny offered. “Takes less to take them down though. More so if we have prep time. And everyone is ready. There are more of us. And a lot more power behind hits.”

“I’m hating the thought of this even more.” Jason said. but Ellie was starting to calm down. “If the crying stops I'll bite.”

“Pammy, you want to sit it out or help out?” Harley asked excitedly, digging out kitchen knives.

“You want to be defense? Keep it from escaping the house. When they get out they can hurt people who aren’t prepared.” Danny asked his aunt.

“I think I can manage that.” Ivy said. She wanted to be supportive but this concept in particular was something she struggled with. The only thing she liked hearing about it was that it made it where Danny had no push back with the vegetarian menu. The only reason she thought he didn’t switch over completely was his food insecurity issues.

“We are really doing this?” Waylon asked as Harley handed him a big kitchen knife.

“Only me, Ellie, Grundy and Jason should probably eat this one…” Danny also said.

Selina was holding Ellie now in a sitting position. “Is this an okay substitute kitten?”

“Yeah.” Ellie said, rubbing at her tear stained cheeks. “I’d like that. We are going to do it together right? Like a family dinner?”

“Yes, once. This is not family dinners here. Fighting your food is not normal family dinners anywhere but the Fenton’s we are not the Fenton’s. We are …” Jason tapered off. He didn’t know what to call them.

“The siren’s!” Harley cheered, raising up two large kitchen knives. Grundy was holding the old griddle like a shield.

“We aren’t all sirens.” Jason argued with her.

“Sure we all are! Just cause half of us got stuff swinging between our legs doesn’t mean ya can’t be a seductress!” Harley argued.

“What does penises have to do with siren’s?” Ellie asked, now fully calmed down. “Or seductress? What's a seductress?”

“Oh gawd.” Waylon smacked his face.

“Your mom is going to answer that after the rest of us leave. I want no part of that.” Jason said with a pointed finger.

“unky Jay knows he's a seductress. All he's gotta do is squat!” Harley patted his thigh as she moved past dodging the shove from him.

“Ignore her.”

“Waylon's got all that tail, and Grundy has the swagger. Totally all siren’s. Not like we are all your merry men.”

“Do not! Call my gang that!”

“Grundy you ok?” Waylon asked.

“He's embarrassed.” Both kids replied for him. Which had the zombie grumbling at them.

“Ok we are doing this I guess. We aren’t going to set the table with anything else till after we finish the chicken fight. Is it better to bake it or fry it?”

“We never fried anything. That seemed dangerous for just me and Jazz to handle. But it works with one of those $8 grocery rotisseries too.”

“Even better!” Jason clapped his hands. “Selina, you can handle that. The kids can set the table for battle while the rest of us handle the real cooking. By the time you get back, Danny can have the ecto ready and we can eat real food tonight.”

“I’ll go with you momma cat!” Harley said cheerily. “I claim the meat cleaver!”

“That’s ok. I prefer the BBQ fork and a large pot lid for a shield.” Danny said.

“Keep talking, I'm going to be jumping in joy about this idea.”

“Yeah!!!!!!!” Ellie jumped up and cheered, floating about in a spin.

“At Least she’s happy, and not crying no more.” Waylon said. Selina collected her keys and purse and headed out with Harley.

*************************************************

“Wooo! That was batshit!” Harley cackled where she was laying on the ground some new cuts and bruises. Her clothes were torn a bit.

“That wasn’t as bad as I was expecting.” Waylon said. Watching Grundy and kids finishing off the struggling bits of meat from the ripped apart reanimated bird with animalistic noises. Jason was panting but forced the wiggling chicken wing into his mouth with a growl.

Selina held the back of her hand to her mouth taking deep breaths through her nose. “Pam, I think I'm going to be vegetarian with you for a while.” she barely got out between deep breaths. She turned to look at Ivy in the living room. “Ivy?”

Pamela was pale holding her hands to her mouth, body trembling before she bent over at the waist puking all over the floor at her feet.

“Pammy? Was that too much?” Harley asked. Ivy answered by heaving again. Selina gagged but held it in. she was not going to start a round of sympathy puking.

“I think Thanksgiving dinner is getting postponed till Friday.” Waylon said as poor Pam continued to puke. The kids and Jason had stopped long enough to look at her. Croc grabbed a trashcan and went to Pam’s side to maybe catch the next round. He and Harley would probably need to clean that up for her. He put the can under her face and lifted her by the waist to get her to the bathroom.

Chapter Text

“oh it's you.” Selina said to the man.

“Come off it luv. I told you we needed another chat” Constantine hurriedly puffed his cigarette.

“What the hell is that?” A little girl's voice came from behind her.

“ya other one show up? Or you got another brat?” Selina glared at him. He raised both hands, “just clarifying. No judgment. House full of ladies not sure if the kids triggered baby fever or some shite. Look at Batsy. Lost his damn mind when empty nesting hit him.”

“Just Danny and Ellie.” Selina answered. Ellie popped up above her head to look at Constantine.

“Who is this weird feeling hobo?” Ellie asked, looking at him skeptically.

“Uncle Connie.” Danny’s voice comes from further in the house. Selina sighed but let him come inside.

“Did you and Dan cross some wires?” Ellie floated backwards taking in John. “I'm sensing some low standards.”

“He's the lead singer of Mucous Membrane.” Danny said, working on his homework at the kitchen table.

“Was kiddo.”

“Oh! I know that band! Really?” she asked, looking at the drunken hobo sitting down at their table. Ellie joined them. Selina texting the other ladies of the house.

“It was a long time ago kid.” John told Ellie as she scrutinize him.

“Wow, Clocky sure wasn’t nice to you then.” Ellie said with a laugh at John’s deepening frown but Selina did laugh along with her children.

“Hardy har har, get yourself a good laugh in cause I’m sure the rest of this conversation isn’t going to be as fun. Though I’m happy to get to meet ya. And you got to ya mum safe and sound.” He clapped his hands together loudly. “And I only need to have this conversation once if I'm a lucky bastard.” He did now have both kids' attention on him and mum's.

“I’m staying for this whole conversation.” Selina told him bluntly. “Kids can you get everyone water?”

“Yeah mom.” Both kids said cabinets were flying up and fridge to get out a pitcher.

John took his cup and held it steady while one of the kids poured water for him and the rest of the table. Refilling the cups already there. “Thanks. Now we are gonna have a talk about the train night! And first thing is adding to your do not do list is using true forms in this plane. Do not ever do it, unless an absolute emergency or somebody has a bloody barrier up!”

“What’s the problem with that?” Ellie asked sticking her tongue into her cup to play with her beverage.

“Besides the GIW tracing you, Constantine says it draws other unwanted attention.” Selina told Ellie. Grabbing a few pieces of fruit off the table and cutting them into thin slices. At the first two she slid them into Ellie cups. Ellie smiled, her teeth hooked to the edge while nudging them around.

“Strong magi like myself and several Justice League Dark notice that. Your human forms cloak a lot of your power. And his crown.” John ignored Danny’s whine. “And not all magi are good. Somebody might try something fucking stupid. It’s not worth the risk.

“Ellie’s never changed into her true form.” Danny said. “She might be broken cause of her mom.”

“I’m not broken!” Ellie snapped back. “I just haven’t had a need to!”

“Could be yer just too young, You might grow out of it. when you can, don’t do it here. Nothing to be ashamed off though. Moving on. We need to talk about where home is. Because I need to know what the bloody fucking hell is going on there you didn’t trigger a magi alarm when you did that before.” John said pulling away Danny’s notebook to get his attention that he tried to settle elsewhere. Ellie was also not looking at him. Danny finally pouted at him when he closed the boy’s text book and slid it away from him.

“He’s not that much older, why does he have one?” Ellie pouted.

“Probably got it with the crown luv. It’s not a big deal. I am quite happy you do not have one yet. Makes my stress less. Let’s try our best to stay on topic here, cause this is important. Where did you kids come from?”

“A test tube in a basement lab in a mansion.” Danny for his part pointed at his mom who giggled.

“Har har har, seriously. I need to know where you were able to change into your true form without setting off any magi’s tingling senses. That’s not normal. And I need to look into it. Because that is part of the reason you kids been left to fuck all on your own. That is beyond suspicious.”

“You can’t look into it. It’s too dangerous.” Danny glared at him, flashing his eyes.

“Your little light show isn’t going to intimidate me.” John pointed a finger at the kid who huffed and went to grab his homework again. John dropped his hand on top of Danny’s. His mom dropped some fruit slices into his water. “Eh, look, I'm not trying to pick a fight with you. This is important. Seriously important. We need to know if the government has a strong magi or a wizard on the bank rolls to cover that up. Which would be an extra danger for you brats.” John dug into his coat, opening a pocket dimension and pulling out a little bag of candy. “I’m prepared to bribe ya too.” he shook the bag. Both kids' eyes focused on the spirit candy. “I’m also not the undies on the outside barricade. I’m not gonna go stomping in making a commotion. Or ill prepared or ill informed. Want you to explain the whole lot to me and we come up with a plan together, and with your little after school club back home. I will not tell any of the wanna be luchadores about anything you share. Not even the rest of dark. The only thing they need a report on is my findings on why none of the magi in the league knew what the bloody fucking hell was going on your little town for two years. Not where it is. Not the name. Nothing. I can go alone or with Deadman and Zee. But I will not take anyone you don’t want me to.” he dug out a piece of candy for each kid and slid it over to them both quick to shove the treat in their mouths as he rolled his eyes. “This is how we start fixing things. You gotta give a little.”

“Why do you guys think it’s too dangerous for Connie?” Selina asked, deciding to throw the man a bone. She’d like these answers too. And though she could tell Constantine, he didn’t ask her. Both of them knew if they shared behind the kids back it would upset them and cause tension and trust issues.

“Fruit Loop.” both kids say together mouths crunching on the candy. John may have put a little spell to use for making the candy refuse if it got close enough to the pieces that broke off. Hoping to make it last.

“Not the guys in white?” John asked to clarify.

“You’re alive so no. not unless you somehow ping their sensors and if you do we have bigger problems. But fruitloop is dangerous. If he even just gets curious of you, you will be in danger from him. And you are an outsider, you will draw attention.”

“What kind of things you worried about? He's a halfa like you two?” John asked. Watching both kids bulk and make eye contact. Both were quiet while finishing their candy.

“He has no problem overshadowing people for any reason. Just to make you do whatever he wants even if it's mundane or simple.” Ellie said repeatedly dunking her fruit in her drink with her finger.

“Like you are in front of him and Don't hold open a door and he feels insulted, he'd make a clone to overshadow you just to force you to go back and hold open the door and praise him and degrade yourself publicly verbally and loudly.” Danny gave an example that had happened to a tired teacher at their school.

“He hires other ghost to goon for him too. They stalk and spy on people. Plus he can make lots of clones.”

“He makes ecto tech too. And ghost animals and ghost animal hybrids to do his bidding. He used to put bugs and cameras in my bedroom and locker.” Selina bulked at that statement. She didn't know that. And made her want to kill the man more.

“He's a nightmare.” Ellie shivered Hiking up her shoulders.

“He manipulates and kills people to get everything he wants. And when he can't he lashes out. And he gets away with everything, between money , power, powers, he's untouchable.”

“Literally and figuratively.” Ellie mumbled with a pout laying her upper body across the table.

“If he's calm he's actually smart and comes up with plans and stuff that actually usually work at first for him. When they go wrong and we manage to brute strength our way out of his traps he gets sloppy in his rage, but his blows hurt more.”

“Is he as strong as either of you?” John asked seriously. This guy was sounding like some bad news.

“Raw power no. He's older though. 20 years dead. Plus he knows more about our powers than we do most of the time.”

“He's got a fire core. Like a straight up fire core.” Ellie added. “Looks like a joke of a Dracula.”

“Yeah, no taste in anything.”

“Blokes crazy about ya too.”

“Not just crazy about me. Or ghost crazy. He's actually crazy. Even by ghost standards. He's considered an unstable ghost because of the level of his obsessions. How he acts on them breaks even some realms rules too.”

“Your ecto tech work on him?” John asked, taking the kids' concerns seriously.

“Yeah, but if he sees it on you, he will automatically be suspicious of you. Get in contact with my team and that goes even higher.”

“He can't follow you back to us.” Ellie said, giving puppy dog eyes to the man sitting there. “He will kill everyone and drag us back.”

“Easy there luv, we are talking and planning. Researching first. Can I have the bastard's human name? To look into him?” John frowned as both kids shook their heads furiously no. “What about his ghost name?”

The kids shared a look before answering. “Plasmius.”

“I will research into that and bring my findings back here to you and you can help me fill in more.”

“We have a file on him with video clips of all his powers.” Danny added.

“We do. I can make a copy. If the kids are ok with it and other ghost files.”

“You have files like that on all your ghost friends?”

“Rogues, friends, any ghost who dropped in to home for just playing or world conquering plans.” Danny shrugged. “Sam's idea.”

“Good girl. Like her more and more.” John said with a sage nod pulling out his flask. He slid two more pieces of candy over to each kid. “Home. I really need the location. I will do outside research first. And then go over it with you before we even talk about an in person check in. I promise I'm not about to go poking a sleeping bear with a stick. I got more sense than that. But I'm willing to make a deal to give ya some peace of mind if that's what it takes. All the information you gave on the infinite realms has been a wonderful busy task. Very helpful for lighting a fire under the spandex parade. But we need the next piece.”

“What does a deal entail? Does it have to be made with my kittens?” Selina asked, speaking up to cut across her kids' nerves.

“Can be between us no problem. Might be less tight. Easy enough to offer service to the king upon my passing…”

“You're immortal though aren't you?” Ellie asked. Selina frowned at the con man.

“Not entirely,” John was quick to answer. “If I break my vow we can agree to a sanction. What would you have in mind?”

Selina thought on it for a moment, drumming her nails on the table surface. “If you act without their permission or mine,” she paused for effect. “You are to immediately appear before me, so I can dole out punishment personally.”

“Clever wording. But I will bite. Change immediately to after, and I'll set it. Because I do not have intent to break it but if I do it will be for good reason. If I have cause I'd prefer to deal with it then your wrath. But will offer myself up. Beg forgiveness over permission if you were.”

“Mom?” Danny asked worriedly.

“I want answers to kitten.” Selina looked at both her kids. “I'm making the call, I'm agreeing to the terms. If anything goes wrong, that's on me and John. Not you two ok?”

Both kids looked very nervous. The temperature dropped a bit and things started to vibrate. “You little brats know we’ll look after ya right? Even if we do something to fucker it all up. We will still do what we gotta to keep you sprites safe. We can protect you from this bloodclaat. We will.”

“He just keeps getting worse.”

Danny shook his head. “I know the guys think he’s being nicer or his not obsessed with me or Maddie as much anymore. Or it’s changing. He has his moments where he’s not a complete fruit loop but he always slips back, he always slips back into being an asshole.”

“We're gonna work together on this kiddos. You aren’t atlas. Done holding everything back alone. Hear me. Listen to your mum on that." Connie said, throwing an arm around the little king next to him. Selina pulling her daughter into her side. And taking her son’s hand. John used his free hand to ruffle Ellie’s hair. “I’m make a deal with your mum. But you are the one who gets to share. You can decide what you share still. I’ll asks questions and we go from there. If you really don’t want to share something we can discuss why for each point ok?” John and Selina waited for the kids to calm down a bit before John looked to their mom pointedly putting his hand on the table held out to her.

“Just say the words?” she asked.

“Exactly as we agreed. Ignore my mumbling.” he said, eyes starting to glow.

“If you act without their permission or mine you are to appear before me after, so i can deal out punishment personally.” Selina said, taking the man’s hand and shaking it. A slight burning sensation in her palm before it passed. The kids watched them intently. Neither breathing.

“There we go now that momma cat has been appeased, let's get the basics.” John said, pulling a pen and notebook from his coat pocket. Tapping the pen on the table to pop out the tip. “Let’s start with name, and locations. And maybe any little history facts ya remember from school or historical placards.”

“Seriously? You’re taking notes on a pad? Where’s your computer?” Danny asked. Seemingly relaxing more as John gave him a stupid look.

“Computers are dumb and break easy. This just burns. Or runs. It’s better.” John corrected. He tapped Danny’s notebook. “One to talk.”

“That’s cause it’s easier to scribble out the math steps.”

“I like computers better.” Ellie piped up. “You can write on a computer or phone.”

John scoffed. “You can type on a computer. This is writing luv.”

“Ellie doesn’t know how to write.” “I don't know how to do that.”

“What?” Selina asked, finding herself a bit shocked. “Can you read ok?” she asked concerned.

“Yeah, I can read and type. But I don't know how to write.”

“You can chicken peck. Like Jason. You can’t type. At Least on a computer. You are way faster on the phone keyboard.”

“I will make sure the school knows that when you start going. And maybe we can work on that at home till you can start.”

“whatever. Amity Park, Illinois.” Ellie said through her teeth. “Typing is what everyone else does.”

John wrote that down on his notebook at the top with a line under it. “Any little facts you think might be relevant or important for a magi to know?”

“Amity was already naturally a thin place between the veil and this realm. Which landed itself to more natural portals. That's why the Fenton’s choose it for their work.” Danny said, rolling his pen around with his powers. “It's also why the witches who originally formed the town chose it.”

John stopped writing and looked over at Danny. “Excuse me? Elaborate on that for me please.”

“Amity was founded by a group of witches and their families fleeing the witch hunts in the northeast colonies. During like puritan times. Jack's ancestors were part of the witch hunter's who drove them out of the area till the fled. Amity was their safe haven.” Danny answered with.

“And that's on a placard somewhere in what? Town hall?” Constantine asked.

“No. I was on a time travel mission with Sam and Tuck. For Clocky. Sam also got burned at the steak. Told you that.”

“You left out some details! Bloody fucking hell! Do you have a name of the witches' covenant? Or I'm not versed with knowledge of any witches hunter lines called Fenton’s.”

“Nightingale.” Danny answered. “They are the witch hunters. Or supernatural hunters. Someone named Nightingale killed Wulf too.”

“Who’s Wulf?” Constantine asked.

“A werewolf ghost in the zone. He's our friend.” Ellie answered.

“Walker has beef with Wulf, cause he can open portals whenever he wants. And thinks that's breaking the rules.”

“It’s not.” Both kids made sure to clarify for him. John tossed his pen a little bit, put his hands on his head and dropped the set down to the table. His knuckles taking the brunt of the force.

“Do you know that name?” Selina asked, getting up to get her kids some snacks. And maybe another strong drink for Constantine.

“Yes.” the man mumbled through his hands and table.

“Danny pass this over to him.” Selina said, setting the bottle of cheap vodka on the counter. She grabbed the tajin from the cabinet and started chopping the fruit on the counter. She didn’t bother peeling anything. Both kids enjoyed the bitter skins.

“Thanks luv.” Connie said, grabbing the bottle when it was within reach. Selina came back to the table with the bowl of seasoned fruit putting it in front of everyone. “You kids do not ever have anything to say that is not just a absolute wanker of a headache of dread to deal with.”

“You asked!” Both kids barked at him, throwing up their hands.

“And I regret it. Why couldn’t it just be something easy like a bloody fucking yankee stooges playing wizard?!”

“Constantine, not that I don't enjoy watching your crisis after upsetting my children, no more candy though.” Both kids whined, as Ellie dropped the bag with her powers she was trying to sneak off the man. “Can you share the cause of your dramatics?”

“The yanks most likely are not the reason the kids' little town isn’t pinging on magic radar despite everything.” Constantine took a swig from the bottle. “They are getting a helping hand from what is most likely old spell work from the town originators. To keep the nightingale hunters from finding them. Like most hunters, they are a bunch of hypocrites. Hate magi who aren’t under their thumb. Or tow their lines and spread their dogma. Avoid them if you can.”

“What kind of spell work?” Danny asked before sliding the orange rind over his teeth. Ellie copying him with a grin.

“Shielding most likely. Maybe some other stuff. If the veil was thin there before it probably boosted the protection spells. Once those mad scientist who raised you popped a hole in the veil completely they got a bigger boost.” he snatched a piece of fruit for himself, looking it over. “Like most things with you brats, I can't tell if these are boons or a bane in general.” he finished with eating the fruit. Dropping the orange rind from his slice into the bottle of vodka. Selina rolled her eyes at him. “It’s a bane to me though.” he seemed to muse. “Or maybe a good boon. Can’t imagine what kind hellscape that town would be if all this mess was crawling with ill intentioned magi. You said you met one already tell me about him.”

“Frederich Isak Showenhower, he was calling himself as Freakshow. He had a creepy circus he mind controlled all the performers, who were all ghosts. He had a magic staff that let him do that. Me and my friends smashed it and freed all the ghosts. He used the ghosts to steal for him.” Danny said, chewing on a melon slice.

“Showenhower is a name I know. Family of occult, tapered off a lot of their influence in the community. Gambling issues run in the family. Lost lot of their family heirlooms and artifacts. I have several.”

“Nice! He’s in jail right now. Or at least that’s what the authorities told us.” Danny told him tossing a strawberry to Ellie who caught it with John’s pen like a skewer.

“I’ll double check on that. And him. Because I'd like to know how he zeroed in on your town when no other magic users did. To bring an item to control ghosts to a ghost town.”

“I think he just stumbled on it. Or Lydia could feel the ectoplasma.”

“Who's Lydia?”

“She’s a ghost from the zone who’s his friend. But she was with him before he got to Amity. And none of the ghosts with him had been seen in the area of the zone where the portal opened before he got there.”

“She’s really nice. She’s just kind of in love with the guy.” Ellie added. “She doesn’t remember her death. But she remembers him.”

“Alright, well I'm going to start this mess, with him. And I'll report back to you on that information. And then we are going to make a game plan for me to visit Amity Park. I’ll be back with all the history I can pull up on it too. Sound good?”

“I guess…” John held his hand out for his pen. Waving his fingers in a gimme motion when Ellie didn’t hand it over right away. He got it covered in sticky juice. Which he just brings it to his mouth to clean off, despite Selina’s disgusted look. He started taking his notes.

“Anymore questions John?”

“Oh a million of them! I know not to bite off more than I can chew!” John bemoaned.

“Are you staying to play with us today? For like dinner? We are doing a fashion show with aunt Harley today.” Ellie asked.

“I’m not one for dress up.” John said honestly. “And I need to get started on research.” He finished his notes and stuffed it into his coat.

“Lame. we were going to do make up too! I’ve never done makeup.” Ellie pouted.

“I’ll stick around for something another time kids.”

“Promise?” Danny asked with a pout.

Drawing his attention to the kid in full. He squinted at him. Then looked at Ellie’s matching eager face. Then at Selina who looked smug and threatening. No matter how subtle. “Uh sure… I'm not really one for silly kids games though. No family game night shit.”

“Ok,” Danny said, holding out his pinky.

“What’s family game night?” Ellie asked.

“Like playing board games and stuff.”

“Video games count too.” Selina offered her kids helpfully.

“Can we have a family game?” Ellie asked excitedly.

“Sure kitten.” Selina told her while John uneasily offered his pinky to Danny and shook.

“Alright, I'm gonna bugger off for now. I’ll give ya ring if i come up with something erroneous.”

“Bye uncle Connie.” the kids said going back to their own things while Selina got up to lead John out.

“I expect you to keep your promises to my kids John.”

“Of course, of course, man of my word.” she raised a brow at him. As he waved the bottle of vodka at her. She scoffed at him but didn’t say more, shutting the door behind him.

Chapter Text

Ellie cackled madly chasing after the men down the alley Danny hot on her heels. Both their costumes pock marked with bullet holes.

“Pond lily run!” Danny said excitedly, laughing. Ellie matched his laughter jumping onto a nearby dumpster then using the new height to jump off the alley wall to jump on the first of the gang bangers shoulders then launching herself onto the next one. Ignoring one of the men in front of the group, turning to shoot at them. Danny took care of the stray bullets so they wouldn't hit anyone else.

“Floor is lava!” Ellie cheered, jumping to the next one. Danny launching himself by pole vaulting, drawing more gunfire to him. One of the guys Ellie jumped off went down with a friendly fire shot to his leg. And another stumbled from the force of her jump. Leaving 3 on their feet. One of those bleeding from his arm.

“you brats are out early!” Red hoods modulated voice echoes into the alley. “And if you fuckers think just because the kids are still kicking your asses, that you're getting off for shooting kids on my turf you got another thing coming.” Hood jumped off the roof to land on one of the guys aiming at Danny hanging out on top of his staff.

“The floor is lava!” The kids shouted at him. The Goons trying to scramble away.

“Yeah, yeah.” Hood said, working his way violently through the men with his fists. “I'm too hot for lava to bother anyway. How'd you end up tangling with these guys?”

“Mrs. Awan was being hassled by these guys. They tried to force their way into the building and her apartment.” Danny answered.

“They were looking for Malik. And had no manners!” Ellie added.

“She ok?”

“Yeah. Like we let anyone hurt our neighbors.”

“Alright I got these fuckheads from here. Go find Robin and have fun for the night.” Hood said, breaking one guys wrist and disarming him.

“OK. Love you bye.” Ellie jumped down onto his back and kissed his helmet with a giggle. Before running off down the alley. The distraction having him take a hit to ribs from an elbow. He growled. Danny followed suit, dropping down on The goon who had hit Hood before jumping up to give him a hug and kiss too.

“Stop that shit! Go!” Danny tripped the goon trying to escape the alley in Hood's distraction as he left, phasing the man partially into the ground, trapping him.

“Are those your kids?” One of the goons with a wound in his leg asked, trying to pull himself up on the wall. Jason pulled his guns out and shot the man in the knee, sending him to the ground with a scream.

“Next dumb fuck who comments on that is getting a bullet in the lung.” Jason sighed deeply. The brats were decimating his street cred. “Everyone sits down and shuts up while I make a phone call and I won't kill you for the audacity of your actions tonight. I'll send you off with a message for the rest of your crew.” he made sure his side of the call wouldn't come out and hit the batcom.

“Demon brat, kittens are headed your way. So if you are in the cave still you have a timer going.”

“Hood..,” Batman said on the com.

“Shut it. I ain't got time to argue with you.” Hood cut him off. “Also, brat I need you to bring extra insulated under suits of yours to meet them. Some old ones. Like smallest ones from storage. Kittens’ are Swiss cheese.”

“Why are they Swiss cheese?” Red Robin asked.

“Some gang bangers were hassling kids' neighbors. The kids think being a meat shield is a great tactic.” Hood kicked one of the men moving too much. Phasing the man's hand into the ground has him stepping on it. He might like that skill. Useful and not needing to carry as many restraints.

“I will do so. However, why do you not have spares? That's poor planning knowing their poor methodology.”

“Considering the kids’ are all stolen from your old hand me downs. I think I'm prepared enough.” Jason decided to phase a piece of each idiot around him in the ground till all 5 were. Only one dumb enough to try and struggle away. “Don’t bother trying to run the trackers Oldman.”

“Did you not take anything with body armor?” Red Robin said angrily.

“Wasn’t a priority. Bullets and stabbings aren't fatal, and don't cause panic attacks! Just get the brats insulated and… ugh I forgot… make them dump the bullets! Do not let them eat them. You have to count the holes in the damn suit.”

“Hood…” Batman tried again.

“I'm busy.”

“We got the kittens.” Red Robin said and Jason cut the com line.

Jason made sure he was now speaking to the gang bangers he had pinned down. “Thanks boys for your cooperation, now that you bozo’s have my undivided attention I’m going to tell you how this goes. I’m going to break a bone in your bodies for each number of shots I estimate you put in the kids. After I get it, I call back with an exact count. If I guess too low, I'm going to leave you here just like this to reenact the Saw movies. If I’m too high I’ll let you loose to run back to all your little friends, so you can tell them what happens to shit stains like you,” he pistol whipped one of the guys. “Who starts shit on my turf! And hurt,” he kneed another in the head. “Kids and little old ladies! What ever bullshit you’re hearing on the streets or think you know about red fucking hood going soft.” he growled out the last word his voice modulator crackling. “See how soft you think I am when I’m done with you dumb fucks!”

**********************************************

Damian frowned heavily at the kittens who were floating around the safe house with him getting into all the cabinets and cupboards and making commentary on the items they had and didn’t have available. It was one of their more filled ones. With tech and gear. Red Robin having taken charge of it as it was in his turf. He had gone ahead to keep the kittens from stumbling their way into the batcave. It was unanimously decided that would be disastrous. They were waiting on Tim who said he would join them with the supplies they needed. Damian frowned as he took in all of the holes in the kitten's clothes. He saw blood stains, but fresh clear pale skin peaked out of all the holes. Many would have been lethal to any other. Their backs perfectly clear of shots though. Damian picked up the sounds of crunching. “What are you eating? Red Robin does not do well to stock food rations in the safe houses.”

“Nothing.” Both kittens answered too quickly and tones too pitched.

“You were instructed to remove all the bullets. Add them to the coffee can please.” because that was the only thing his brother bothered to store here food wise besides a few protein bars. The coffee machine had at least appeared and smelled clean. He might have had Schrodinger remove an internal piece though so it wouldn’t function but didn’t look any different from the outside. “It’s needed as evidence at least. The side effects of lead poisoning possibly to a lesser degree for your own physiology, however without a proper study can’t be written off as of yet.”

“But it’s crunchy and chewy and kinda sweet.” Ellie whined. But both marched over and spit the bullets into the can.

Damian frowned at it, then examined their clothes again. “Tsk, you can not fool me. Discard all the bullets and other metals from your bodies please.” he crossed his arms over his chest. Ellie rolled her eyes and whole head him. Danny pouted his lip out as far as he could, but both their forms turned slightly transparent, followed by the clatter of many objects hitting the floor around their feet. There were alot more bullets now. Along with several knives, a pistol, and parts of another pistol. From the coloring he would also guess a piece of a stop sign and street sign. There were also more bullets than he assumed came from this one incident. It drew his frown deeper. “Hood is going to want to know where the guns came from.” he informed him.

“Uh, where did we get those?” Danny asked Ellie.

“I stole the one from a guy who tried to rob the corner store when I was with aunt Pam.” Ellie answered. “No idea about the bit one. That had to be you.”

“Maybe that mugging attempt after school last week then…”

“You don’t remember?” Damian asked skeptically.

“It’s been a week since the last one!” Danny threw his hands up. “And I get jumped like once a week if not more coming home from school.”

“Have you told your guardians about this issue?”

“It’s not an issue. It’s just annoying.” Danny argued, crossing his own arms.

Damian glared back at Schrodinger. But bent over to pick up one of the knives testing its balance. “Did you intend to eat this?”

“No, I have a box of them under my bed and a bunch all over the house and my work area in case I need to cut something.”

“We tried to set up a target in the alley, but we put too many holes in the dumpster and they got dulled.” Ellie added.

“You also bounced one into Grundy's leg. So mom and uncle Waylon said we couldn’t do that no more.”

Damian hummed so they knew he was paying attention. It didn’t shock him they didn’t know not all knives were balanced for throwing. Or that they also probably didn’t know how to do so properly. “May I have this one. It is actually of quality.”

“Sure.” Both kittens answered with a shrug. Damian crouched down and began picking up the rest of the bullets dropping them into the coffee can. The kittens assisting him, with the rest many were well preserved for ballistic analysis. He expected them to have acid scarring. The kittens seemed to just store them till they felt like chewing on them like they are candy. He lined the other weapons including the knife he wished to keep on the small table and took a picture with his camera attached to wrist computer. Sending it separately to both hood and the batcomputer. Before he lifted the stashed blade on his belt once more.

He was also going to send a message to Red Robin when the older vigilante landed on the fire escape outside the window. He tossed a batarang to hit the window frame as he climbed in. making Red Robin jump and glare at Robin. “You are too loud.” Damian scolded. As Tim dropped a backpack on the floor.

“I was on purpose! So not to startle them.” Tim hissed at Robin. Before taking in the kitten's attire. His frown turned to shock. “Clothes off now.” Tim barked out going around to turn on more lights.

“Dude that’s kinda creepy.” Danny said moving in front of Ellie. “And what about manners? Can’t you say please?”

“I’m checking you over for wounds. I have new clothes. Your undersuits are going to be useless like that. Off. now.”

“Their wounds appear to be healed adequately, Red Robin.” Damian said. But did understand Tim was a bit panicked. Robin had skimmed over their entry several Times since the sight was jarring and normally only accompanied more blood and dead or nearly dead victims.

“I’m checking them without anything to cover or hide anything. Please. I need to check.” Red Robin said coming back to pull out the under suits and some of the lightly armored training suits they had. Also pulling out a few first aid supplies. Setting them down next to the can of bullets before bulking at the sheer volume of it.

“Those are not all from tonight.” Damian placated. “Red Robin is concerned, and needs to check so he doesn’t worry himself into a panic. He does not have any unscrupulous intent. Nor would I allow such an attempt in my presence.”

“What the hell does that mean?” Ellie asked with her nose scrunched up.

Tim jerked. “Right, that did sound, ugh, I'm sorry.” Tim shook his head a bit to clear it, taking a deep breath, “ Please just take off your costumes and outer clothes so I can check you over for my own peace of mind. And then I have gear without holes in it. Keep your undergarments on. I didn’t mean those in the first place.”

“Whatever, don’t be weird.” Danny said leaving his arms crossed he phased off the outer clothes. Leaving him in his green alien boxers.

Tim pulled back his head watching that eyes getting a little big. “Oh that’s nice. I’d love to be able to do that.”

“Then die.” both kittens scoffed. Ellie followed suit. Leaving her in pair godzilla undergarments. Ignoring Tim’s cringe at their words, Damian rolled his eyes. But he was also inspecting where the bullet holes corresponded in their clothing.

“Arms down.” Tim said, raising his hand up, finger extended. “Turn.” he rotated his finger. Letting out a sigh when their backs were to him and they had no new injuries. However both had several scars. Danny considerably more than Ellie. Tim and Damian shared a side eye before Tim grabbed the two undersuits Alfred had brought him. Both fresh and the non-primary electronics removed. Which answered how Jason stole the kids original suits. And that he knew more than he was sharing. As both were also tailored and labeled with their hero initials. At Least he didn’t have to guess which was which from a lump of fabric. He tossed each over top of them. “Undersuits. We’ll turn around and give you some privacy.” and he and Robin did do so.

“Why does it matter now!” Ellie whined. But she started pulling on her suit. Danny doing so also.

“One is safety and since it’s not safety now it’d be weird. We are being polite like you wanted.” Tim defended.

“Are you dressed yet?” Robin asked, ignoring Tim.

“Yep. you can turn around and not be a weirdo.” Danny said. Both boys turned around. And Tim went straight towards them to check the fit. But both kittens backed up. Robin grabbed Red Robin’s cape to stop his approach further but before there was tension Tim stopped and raised his hands up to show he wasn’t a threat.

“Hey, easy, just, I want to check the fit. It works better if it’s fitted properly so taser prongs can’t puncture or snag on anything. Has Hood done that on your other ones?” Tim asked.

“Mom checks our stuff when it comes out of the laundry and she gets it out. And Hood checks our stuff once a week.” Ellie said. “He got me my suits after I was wearing his and they didn’t fit.” Ellie thumbed at Danny.

“She had seal hands.” Danny clarified, flapping his wrists holding up his arms in the mummy pose.

“Ok, he’s probably doing repairs then too. Good.” Tim said out loud, for himself and for the kittens so they know that needs to be done.

“Will you allow him to check?” Robin asked in Tim’s stead since he hadn’t properly asked yet.

“I guess.” Schrodinger said with a frown.

Tim moved closer again, brought his hand close to Schrodinger's chest. “I have to touch you, are you going to be ok with that?”

“Just touch? You’re not going to shock me or something to test it right?” Danny asked worriedly looking up at Red Robin.

“No, no, I’m not going to shock you now or ever.” Red Robin told him. “Or at least not intentionally. Sometimes I’ve handed out tech that has shorted out cause I pulled an all nighter to finish it.” Tim relaxed a bit at Danny’s laugh. Danny gave him a little nod and Tim moved quickly to check it sat snug against his body at the chest and neck line. Checking the arms next and legs. “Ok you are good. Duplicat you’re up.”

Ellie looked at Danny and then to Red Robin. Staring at him in the face she held out a hand to him. “I’m Duplicat.”

Red Robin frowned looking from her face to her hand. “Uh, oh, urg, sorry. I… I'm Red Robin.” Tim took her hand and shook it.

“I apologize for his atrocious manners, Duplicat.” Robin stated. Tim frowned at Damian.

“No fake out. We are inside and humans are squishy.” Danny told her.

“I wasn’t! Are you younger than Hood? You seem younger?”

“Yeah, I'm Robin’s older brother, and Hood's younger brother.” Red Robin answered. He was a bit pink faced from the embarrassment of realizing he barged in and started barking orders without introducing himself to Duplicat first. “Is it ok if I check your suit now?”

“Sure. weirdo.”

Tim sighed heavily but went about checking the fit of her suit. “I deserve that. I’m sorry. I got hung up on the part where you two had been shot and Hood said you looked liked swiss cheese.”

“We were fine already though.” both whined.

“I know, but for peace of mind I needed to see for myself.”

“Why? Do you think we are liars?” an oppressive static started to fill the room and press against their skin. Followed by a slight drop in temperature.

“No, I don't think you are liars.” Red Robin answered honestly.

“Tsk, Schrodinger has proven incapable of lying. Hopefully if you wish to lie you have more skill than him.” Robin said with a bit of arrogance.

“I can to lie!” “yeah he sucks at it. And he’s easy to lie to.'' Schrodinger gave Duplicat the most overly offended look Robin had seen yet from the boy.

“The word you are looking for is gullible.”

“Hey! I am not!”

Tim just thought to himself maybe that means she has more sense than her brother. And maybe they wouldn’t just wander off with rogues anymore. “I needed to check, not cause I thought you were lying maliciously. But because sometimes people don’t notice things when adrenaline is pumping. The bats and birds have a long history of hiding some very severe injuries. Either to not delay a mission or because Batman gets pissy and benches us for injuries.”

“Tries.” Robin corrects him.

Tim grabbed the next to suits which Alfred also had prepared. And was grateful to have labeled. “So instead of your Halloween costumes. Which you should not be going out in anyway. We have some training suits of Robin’s for you to wear.”

“These are just plan black suits?” Danny asked, turning over the suit when it was handed to him.

“Kind of stiff though.” Ellie stretched hers a bit.

“Halloween costumes are cheap. And easy to replace.” Danny added. But he was pulling on the suit so was Ellie.

“It doesn’t offer any protection, for bullets or weapons. These are ballistic shielding and slash protection.”

“I must agree with Red Robin. These are much improved over your usual costume. Even with your healing powers, it’s better to have prevention.” Robin gave a nod of approval once they were dressed. It wasn’t the best of protection but it was better than they had previously. “You still match your motifs.”

“I guess.” Danny said Ellie pulled out some of the accessories from their old costumes. Including the tail belts. Both sat on the floor to put their shoes back on.

“We will take the night slow so that you can both get used to maneuvering in the light armor.” Robin suggested.

“Sounds fine.” “lame.”

Chapter Text

Jason knocked on the door of the rather normal if not well kept compared to its neighboring buildings. The trim is painted and bright. Each level of the building is a different color. He could hear shouting footsteps and dogs barking. There was a chance it was the wrong location, considering he only had word of mouth to go by.

The door swung open to a little girl. “What's up? Who are you?” Her smile started to drop. “Uh what's wrong with you?”

“Ellie, we don't ask people what's wrong with them!” A boy shouted coming down in pj's Similar to the girl. Both in boxers and t-shirts with different cartoon characters on them.

But what held Jason Bloods attention was the strong feeling of death magic on these two seemingly children. He was at the right house after all. The boy met his eyes mouth open to speak before they widened. “Ellie run!”

The little girl slammed the door in his face. Lovely so much for a nice chat. But it piqued his interest once the door closed, he no longer felt the strong death magic he had with the door open. There was more shouting inside. Guess he was going to have to do this with much more difficulty. He went to use a spell to unlock the door. The spell stuttered out and sent him stumbling back off the stoop. Luckily he kept his wits about him enough to dodge the giant fist of Solomon Grundy. “And what draws you here beast?” Jason asked the zombie. He was answered by a growl. Grundy moved him away from the door to the building. Once he was in the middle of the street Grundy stopped attacking. Not that he would waste such a reprieve, drawing his sword from his cane to prepare for another assault.

A glowing giant dog jumped out of the house passing right through Grundy to growl menacingly at Jason Blood. It's bark piercing, drawing a wince. Followed by the two children still in Their pj's carrying green baseball bats. The little girl tucked up behind Grundy’s shoulder to glare at him. The boy taking to standing next to the dog. “I don't know. It took him 2 minutes last time. He might be sleeping. I don't know how it works." The boy raised his hands up before dropping them in exasperation. The boy pointed his bat at him. “You, rotten egg smelling magic man, who are you and what do you want? If you want to start some shit you'll regret it.”

“Are the beasts yours little creatures?” Jason asked. He was answered with two sets of flashing green eyes and fanged snarls.

“Don’t call them that!” Ellie yelled at the man.

“I am looking for the death God who cursed a group of socialites a short while ago. Would you happen to be its minions?” Jason Blood asked. The girl looked confused, but everything about the boy seemed to drop and slump.

Danny tossed his head back with a screaming groan. “Come on! Now I gotta hear I told you so from uncle Connie!” Ellie started cackling. “What's the chances of you fucking off to wherever you came from before he and uncle good get here?”

“I'm afraid none, for I can not in good conscience leave you two creatures in the possession of two children.” Grundy grumbled and tucked Danny behind him. Cujo growls louder. “nor leave that beast on this side of the veil.”

“We aren’t possessing anyone!” Both kids snapped.

“I see you will need to be persuaded by force.” Blood said before starting the chant to release the demon he was bound to. Just then the door slammed open after the first verse.

“This better be an actual emergency you little bastards! Bloody ass o'clock in the morning!” John made eye contact with Jason. The shock of seeing the occult detective drawing Jason to pause in his incantation. “Bloody hell do not summon Etrigan! Brats don't need an excuse for a brawl!” John turned to Grundy. “Get the little turnips in the house, waste of my wards if you leave the fucking building.”

“We aren’t gonna mess up our house!”

“Inside. Now!” John pointed at the house. Grundy picked up Danny by his scruff making a rumble that had Cujo shrinking down with one last growl before following the others inside. John rubbed his face aggressively. “Could you not show up at a reasonable hour?”

Jason Blood raised an unamused eyebrow at the conman. “I do believe John Constantine, that you owe me an explanation on what is going on here.”

“Just put the Bloody fucking sword away.” John snorted. “Fight a demon or the kids’ family and the bats. Great wake up call. Get your arse over here so I can let you in the house. Do not say a word to the kids. Gonna be annoying enough as it is. Don't piss'em off more.”

“What have you stepped in this time Constantine?” Blood asked, stepping into the house past John.

“OH don't worry. It'll be your problem now too since you want to stick your nose into it.” John said following behind him. The kids were behind the kitchen counter glaring at the two men. Bud and Lou now at their feet with cujo. All 3 dogs growling. “Settle down. Where's your mum?”

“With Huntress.”

“Aunts?”

“With Huntress.”

“Call your mum. See if she can come home. Tell her someone is here. But that right now everything is fine.” John sighed again. “Where's your uncle Jason?”

“Right here!” Jason said, dropping his invisibility. Holding his pistol up to Bloods head.

“Easy there batboy. You don't want to trigger the baby protection spirit. This here is a colleague. Jason Blood.” John addressed Blood. “Bats revenant son.” He then looked over at the kids. “This is Jason Blood”

“Is he with the justice league?” Danny asked.

“He works with dark sometimes. He's not gonna snitch. I'll make sure of it.”

“Constantine “ Blood said in a warning tone.

“I said keep your trap shut.”

“Mom can't come home yet. Wants to know if you can handle it?” Ellie asked texting into her phone.

“Yep. We got it handled.” Hood said not moving from his spot.

“Good. Let's make this quick then. Go turn on your little shield thing, then all three of you change real quick for half a minute then back. He's not a Bloody fool, and it's the quickest way to clear everything up.”

“Try anything I'll put a bullet in your head.”

“It would not serve you well for I am immortal, it will only bring forth the demon.”

The kids perked up. “A demon? Can we see?” That got another raised brow from Blood, the tension in the air being quickly cut with their curiosity and excitement.

“Absolutely not!” Jason snorted at John's outburst, the kids pouting. Grundy patted their heads. “Are you good?” he assumed Danny had a duplicate run off to do it.

“Yep.”

“Well…” John said a bit snippy, rubbing his head. He had been hoping to sleep off his hangover but now look what he has to deal with. All three halfas changed. The light triggering his headache even threw his closed eyes and hand.

The was a clunk as Jason sword cane hit the hard though the man didn't drop it. “By god…”

“And we're good. Change back please.” John uncovered his eyes to see Danny pouting and Ellie rolling her eyes. He looked over to see Jason Blood kneeling on the ground with his head bowed both hands on his sword. “Eh get up before the brat gets cranky.” He nudged him with his foot. Bats' second oldest wasn't holding a gun to his head anymore. But he hadn't put it away.

“You may not care for proper etiquette Constantine, but even you should…” Blood stopped speaking when two paper wrapped tea bags smacked him in the head.

“Get off the floor before Bud and Lou piss on you.” The kids said in unison a pot of water on the stove to boil.

“Your majesty,” Blood said standing though shocked at the annoyed tongue he got stuck out at him. Jason took off his helmet rubbing out his hair tossing it at the couch.

“He doesn't like to be called that.” John moved to the table to settle into a chair. “Moppets, can I have a coffee instead?”

“I can make coffee!” Ellie said excitedly raising her hand before cabinets tossed open and the coffee pot came to life with a chime.

“Thanks luv.”

Jason dropped into another chair at the table. “Grundy one of us should get some sleep. I got it from here if you want to go home.”

Grundy hummed and patted both kids on the head who hovered to give him kisses on the cheek before the zombie lumbered out to head back to his apartment in the sewer through the access in the alley they had put in.

“Is it a school night?” John asked haggard. Jason Blood hovering just away from the table stiff in his body position.

“Yes.” Jason Todd said from his seat. “No.” both kids said at the same time.

“Kids. you got the drinks going. Just go to bed. You have to be up in 3 hours to get ready for school.”

“We can handle the pompous ass. He's got a brain.” John perked up a little at the smell of coffee. “Quit hovering and sit your ass down, so the brats quit being nervous and go to bed.”

“You dare raise your voice and order around the king of the infinite realms? Have you gone mad?” Blood asked John indignantly.

“You rolled up on him in the middle of the night. Who’s more mad. Sit.”

“I’ll boss the little shits around all I want.” Jason said teasingly. He raised his hand to grab the ecto cooler Ellie threw at him. Her copy dissipating. “The ladies will be home in time to get you to school. You are going to get everyone in trouble from your mom for keeping you up late. Bed now!”

“Fine!” the kids yelled. “But no funny business!” John snorted while Jason Blood carefully took a seat after the kids picked up Bud and Lou and flew through the ceiling with Cujo on their heels. His back perfectly straight while John and Jason were slumped on the table. Jason’s pistol next to his hand on the table.

“I’m surprised you weren’t here when this bozo fumbled in here.” John said to Jason. Getting up once the kettle whistled, to end the piercing whistle before his head exploded. Three coffee cups sitting on the counter. He pulled the carafe before the coffee finished brewing to fill his mug. The smell of burning coffee drips, helping him wake up a bit more. “Coffee or tea toddler.”

“Tea, and I will punch your face in. last time I spent the night and it wasn’t my day to drive them in, the kids and Harley bedazzled my fucking helmet before school. I try to avoid being here on those days now.”

“Can’t blame ya there.” John said filling the two other mugs with water from the kettle. “Give bats brat one of those tea bags.” John said bringing the mugs back to the table.

“Chamomile or green. Whichever one you got." Todd said to Blood. Who slid over the requested tea bag he had been hit with. Both putting the bags into their mugs. Hood aggressively dunking his. John pulled out a pad of paper and pen from his coat setting it on the table to scribble on it.

He slid it over to Blood once he was done after ripping off another piece of paper he scribbled faster on to pass to hood. Do not tell the nippers you are a knight from Camelot. They will attach themselves to you like limpets. Blood read on the paper. Jason shook his head no after reading his head. “They can sniff it out. The roof is it.”

“I know you are an arrogant cod Constantine, but I request again. What have you…” he stopped as John tapped the pen to the pad. Hood grabbed the pen from him and scribbled on the paper. They will stay up to eavesdrop. Gotta be quiet. Keep your trap shut about them. To anyone. He double underlined anyone.

John took the pen next. You wanna fuck all my work at keeping the kids happy and calm at ass o’clock in the morning on a school day. You can communicate like this. You wanker.

Make him keep his mouth shut like Dick did you. Jason took the pen and wrote out double tapping it. Blood sighed and conjured a pen of his own and a piece of parchment. What has happened for the king of the infinite realms to be in Gotham taking orders from you, John Constantine? What kind of deal have you conjured now?

Jason took the pen and pad fully in front of himself to scribble out his spark notes he’d share. The u.s. Is attacking and harvesting people from the infinite realms. They passed laws to make it legal for anyone who has registered levels of ectoplasma to be considered non-sentient and property of the government. Kids are hiding out here with their mom. Trying to keep a low profile.

Before Blood could finish reading John took the pad and added, yes the kid buggered it with that stunt that drew you here. He’s been scolded already. Can you just keep your head down and ear out for anyone other magi crawling around snooping for the source of the death god.

Blood carefully read over the paper once he had it back taking in all Johns added notes. He took his pen to parchment again. Scolded? He wrote out before underlining it sharply once John's eyes were on the paper. Where do you get the arrogance to scold the god of the realm of transfers? Are you trying to get smited?

Kid doesn’t smite dumbass. Jason wrote out. Then adding after Blood read it, can you either fuck off and never speak of this again or help just keep a look out. We don’t have any magical knowledge here.

The king has magic. You have magic. The little girl, Polariteras. How can you say you three have no magical knowledge?

They call it science is why. John scribbled out hard. Blood added a question mark above science.

Biology. Jason wrote below it in a much neater scrawl than Johns. Then added ectoscience.

Ectoplamsa is a magical energy tied to death and the infinite realms. It is not science. Blood wrote out clearly.

Jason snorted, before writing out. Tell that to the king. He calls it ecto-science and builds ecto-tech

Jason Blood sat staring at the last sentence for a bit too long. John took the pen and scribbled out, just shut up and go. Too hungover for this. Me and Zee will come explain more to you after some sleep.

What about Batman? Will he… Blood didn’t get to finish before Jason was smoldering the parchment with his hand slapped to it. Till it actually caught fire and then started patting it. John snorted before putting out the fire.

John scribbled out for him what Jason was trying to convey. You do not, he circled not. Discuss anything of the kids with bats. Or I hex you. Blood gave a simple nod while watching Batman's son glare at him from the corner of his eye.

“I shall take my leave for now.” Jason Blood said carefully standing and leaving the house.

*************

The sirens came home just in time to get the kids up for school to find John and Jason both passed out at the kitchen table. Harley grabbed his helmet off the couch and headed upstairs to wake the kids up.

****************

Jason glared at his red glitter covered helmet. But the glitter wasn't the end of it, no. They had glued giant false eyelashes, upper and lower. And done a few other colors of glitter so it had eyeshadow and lipstick too. Even black glitter eyebrows.

“I know a drag queen in London who'd love that.” John said with a laugh after he had filled the ladies in on what happened last night and reassured them Blood wasn't about to do anything stupid. But more of dark’s rolls would probably be slowly trickling in. He'd make sure none made the same mistake as he and Blood had. “Careful walking about. Might get a house dropped on you.” John wiped the cold wet tea bag and its splatter off his face. Standing to take his leave with a chuckle and curse.

Chapter Text

“Who the bloody hell setup this pow wow?” John asked once he and Jason Blood were through the portal to the house of mystery. Zee was sitting on the couch with Billy. Bobo was in his armchair with a cup of tea. Deadman was hovering near Zee and Billy was ringing his hands. That wasn't a good sign. June was leaning against his bookshelf. And swamping was standing in the hallway entry with a skylight..

“Billy voiced some concerns to all of us about your recent behavior and research.” Bobo spoke up for the group.

“I told you to leave it alone!” John shouted at Billy with a pointed finger.

Bobo continued ignoring his outburst. “After looking into to your recent movements,”

“Who told you you could snoop on me?”

“You have been spending an awful amount of time in Gotham recently, which you normally loathe to so much as step foot there. Considering that with your research materials, your preferred proclivities,”

“Can't you just call me a whore you pompous…”

“Paired with what I am told, a very concerning energy in the rough area of your current exploits, and your regularly cursed heritage or Bloodline we believe it beneficial to probably the safety of the world if you'd fill us in so we can assist you in rearing whatever mixed breed you've managed to sire. “

“OH bloody fucking Christ! Billy, I told you I didn't have no kids!”

“You lie all the time! And why else would you be researching child development books! And trying to find ones about other magical creatures!”

“You could have straightened this out before wasting everyone's time Zee!” John pointed an angry accusing finger at her.

“I could have,” she teased, "but that wouldn't have been as much fun. And you said you had permission to explain a bit more to everyone, and half the gang's all here already.”

“We all know how much you hate repeating yourself.” Boston chimed in. “Wanna have a seat Jason? Kiddies ok John?”

“They're fine.” “I thought you just said there was no kid?” June and Billy yelled at him.

“They aren't my Bloody fucking crotch goblins is what I said!”

Jason Blood took a seat in the space Zee and Billy made for him on the couch. “Small blessing. That was a concern I had with how you so callously spoke to them.”

“Bloody fucking hell.” John mumbled under his breath, rubbing the bridge of his nose with one hand and digging his cigarettes out with the other.

“You are hiding some sort of magical children in Gotham then.” Bobo said pointedly.

“Trying and failing horribly obviously. Since this arse managed to bumble his way into their haunt.” He thumbed at Jason. “Luckily the moppets used the summons, and bright side they do know what a real emergency is. Got there just in time before he summoned Etrigan.”

“They'd have probably liked Etrigan.”

“Yeah, real excited at the idea of meeting a demon. I'm not explaining to bats why half the city is destroyed if they meet. And we might as well consider Jason lost at that point too.”

“I will take great care Constantine.”

“Are these kids dangerous?” Shade asked.

“Not really.” “Not intentionally.”

“John just get it out.” Swamp Thing requested.

“Might as well, there are two infant endless hiding out in Gotham. Hence the baby research. Trying to help their family prepare for all that entails as they grow and develop.”

“Endless of what? How infant?”

“What do you mean help their family? Wouldn't the other endless know more about that than you?

“Why are they hiding in Gotham? From who or what?”

“Does Batman know?”

John took a seat on his ottoman holding his head with one hand. Elbow propped on his knee. He held up a hand to silence everyone. “Alright rules first. The situation is precarious as fuck. It's why we've been trying to keep it under wraps. Kid fumbled it when he was upset.”

“That death magic was one of these endless?” June asked.

“Yeah, he's 2, he didn’t fully understand what he was doing, or I guess more so the consequences.”

“2! Like 2 years, not centuries?” June asked, shocked when John nodded.

“Sister is one.”

“How old do they present?” Swamp Thing asked.

“12ish and 14ish.”

“Oh for God sake.” Bobo was now holding his own head. “What buffoon is asking you for advice on tween gods?”

“Hey, that one is doing fine.”

“That's a testament to Billy and Zatanna. Not you.”

“Zeus wants credit.”

“No.” Everyone in the room said.

“He wasn't necessarily asked. He blundered into it much like Jason did.” Zee added. “The little king was very attached to John on sight “

“I was initially asked when I stuck my foot in it.”

“At Least something likes you, John.” that got a few chuckles and snorts.

“Little king?” Swamp Thing spoke up next.

“Yeah.” John dropped his hand down to his lap that was holding his cigarette. “This is where I'm gonna suggest taking notes. We aren’t 100% on if we just don't know shite or the kids are just misunderstanding but we are going to have to figure it out. The older endless.”

“There is a year difference.”

“Is also the infinite king. He dethroned Pariah’ Dark at a little over a year old when someone let the bastard out of his box. The brats call endless ancients. Which I think it's partially why they don't know they are and don't believe they are when you tell them. And they will argue and tell you are stupid to think they are. We don't know what their domains are either, but we have some guesses.”

“They also refer to themselves as ghosts. They refer to all realms beings as ghosts.”

“And he called me a shade.” Deadman pouted.

A few people started to speak up.

“Let us finish. It's only gonna get worse. I'd rather get through this in one day.” John took another long drag of his cigarette. “Kid was previously with adoptive family. Who fancy themselves ghost scientists and ghost hunters. Descendants of the nightingales.” He let the round of groans Peter out. “The whack jobs punched a hole in The veil with a machine. On top of their adopted son. Making him a polaritera.”

“Polariteras are a myth they don't…”

“There are 3 of them in Gotham. And the kids know 2 more. One some of us have met before. Destruction.”

“That mountain of a man you wandered off with in Paris?” Bobo asked.

“Yeah.” John smirked. “Kids have a few forms. In their human one, you can tell they have death magic aurora. But it reads like possession or overshadowing. And you can't really pinpoint what they are. As I've been corrected. Dan is older, he can suppress it closer to the other endless I've met before. “

“How were these other polaritera made?”

“Where did they punch the hole? Did it closed right away?”

“The hole is still open. I can't divulge the location.”

“How doesn't everyone know where it is? It should be a beacon!”

“Trying to figure that out. Haven't gotten far, because I keep getting pulled away on other bullshit. Like people rolling up in these kids haunt to pick a fight.”

“That's what you did too.”

“And look at all the work I got saddled with for it. I need everyone to give Gotham and these kids a wide berth because we aren't even to the worst of it yet.”

“What the hell is worse than a hole in The veil and baby godlings running loose in Gotham of all places?”

“Zee would you say cloning baby gods is the worst, or the smelting down shades ghosts spirits and endless into batteries and bombs?”

“What the fuck?” “It's the Americans isn't it? It's always the Americans.” “What kind of insanity?!” “holy shit how?”

“Got it in one.” Constantine cheered Bobo with his cigarette. “One of our little godlings is an attempt to clone the king. Destruction is possibly a clone or a clone attempt also.”

“How much damage have the Americans done?” Bobo asked, holding his head with his finger tips. Holding his other hand out for a cigarette from Constantine who obliged him.

“I’m sure many of us remember several months ago when transport magic was suddenly inaccessible.” Constantine said.

“There was no movement between the realms. The veil ceased to open. Was trapped in the oblivion for a month.” Bobo said.

“I couldn’t use my powers.” Billy said.

“I was free of the pull I felt with the demon.”

“The zetatubes were malfunctioning also.” Zee added.

“The green was silent.”

John nodded. “Kid was captured and tortured by the yanks. An organization called the ghost investigation ward. Experimented on him. His little friends busted him out and he got ousted from his adoptive family. Who pioneered what they are calling ecto-science and ecto-tech. Shipped off to his birth mother in Gotham. Healed up now and doing better.”

“Science?” Several said together. Not swamping though. How he appreciated Alec in that moment.

“The little king refers to ghost magic as ecto Science, he builds magi-tech that can be used against ghosts, like he learned from his adoptive parents. Only he can do it without smelting down other ghosts. The yanks seem to be building off his old folks' work. They've also passed laws making death punishable by torture and ending. Claiming they own anyone who produces or has to much ectoplasma.” John added. Letting it all sink in. Before dropping the last bomb. “King believes the justice league is in cahoots with the yanks doing this.”

“But they aren't.” Billy said passionately, getting several members to look at him in pity. Billy started to loose confidence in his declaration. “They aren't right?”

“Someone or multiple in that tin can are.” John said pointedly making eye contact with Billy. Truth was gonna hurt the little moppet.

“Someone intercepted and hid calls for help from where the veil was pierced. The highest members of the league are looking into it and trying to find the mole.”

“Had any luck yourself, deadman?” John asked.

“No, any luck convincing the king I'm not involved in it?” Deadman shot back, getting several eyes on him.

“Wait, but you're a ghost…” Billy said, confused.

“I might've put my foot in it you know, meeting the infinite king and seeing he was a baby, I got excited and wanted to impress. How was I supposed…”

“King doesn’t like overshadowing, possession,” He pointed at June and Jason to get their attention. “Or mind control. He doesn't like his subjects performing those abilities on unwilling people unless it's absolutely dire. So don’t be a dumb braggart about that.”

“I didn’t know it was going to make him mad.” Boston defended. “I just said I could help him meet any hero he wanted without any worry if they were asses or not. I’d take control. He’s a kid! Kids like heroes. I thought it’d make sense, and would just be a ha ha moment.”

“You aren’t that funny Boston. And you need to watch yourself going forward.”

“The king has a high moral compass. That’s good.”

“I wouldn’t say high. Very specific and child-like. It’s black and white, but doesn’t align with say typical standards. I don’t mind them.”

“Oh I'm sure.” June snorted a laugh.

“I believe he enjoys the uncle Connie moniker more.” Jason Blood stated.

“Uncle Connie!?” Billy shouted before tossing himself back on the couch holding his sides laughing.

“Oh that sounds truly dreadful. Awful, such a burden to be deemed uncle of the king of the infinite realms!” Bobo teased. Zee laughed into her hand.

“How does someone like you more than Boston?” June asked.

“Thank you!”

“Laugh it up the lot of ya!” he pointed to Jason Blood. “Specially you, you done stepped in it. Said you could summon a demon in front of the little buggers, better hope they don’t stalk you home. You’ll never be rid of them. He wants to test his little inventions on a demon. So have fun don’t call me, I'm not calling ‘em off since you don’t like me keeping them behaved.”

“Constantine if you are the disciplinarian for god i believe we are all fucked.” Bobo commented.

“Oh no we are fucked for other reason I'm not willing to have his mother and aunts ripping my balls off for divulging. I’m sure you will know right away, so keep it to yourself but Gotham sirens are looking after the kids. Catwoman is no nonsense tough arse alley momma cat.” Bobo choked on his cigarette drag. And Swamp Thing growled. “Nobody discusses any of this with the justice league morons. Stay out of Gotham unless Zee or I take you. Boston that includes you and maybe we keep you from being permanently banned from moving on or worse.”

“He’d do that?” Billy asked.

“He might, more likely he’d throw down with the deadman in a serious way. Instead of for fun. Kids scared. Good kid though.”

“Have you seen any of these inventions?” Swamp Thing asked.

“Seen them, I got a whole closet full! Kid thinks I'm a buffoon, and outfitted me like a Bloody Hollywood ghostbuster!”

“Boy has brilliant deduction skills bravo.” Bobo laughed at his personal joke.

“Seriously? Can I see?” Billy asked excitedly.

“One, here catch.” John tossed Billy his phone.

“A cell phone?” June asked walking over to look at it with Billy. She could feel the ectoplasma on it.

“Yep, never needs a charge. And I was able to call Zee from hell.”

“It’s such a weird phone.” Billy said, sliding out the button keyboards. “Kind of retro looking.”

“You made a phone call from hell?” Jason Blood asked, a bit impressed.

“Be fun to see if you and Etrigan can phone each other.” John mused at the man.

“Get me one of those and I'd have no need to leave the bar.” Bobo said. “Can you get online?”

“Sure can. Never needs a charge either. King is all about making green energy upgrades to recycled appliances from the dump.” Swamp Thing hummed his approval. “Also untraceable, unhackable except by the king and his lot of friends.”

“Other endless?”

“No liminal humans. And maybe some spirits.”

“Are you sure? I can’t turn it on?” Billy asked. John held out his hand for the phone.

John touched the case with a single finger and the screen unlocked. “Danny calls it bio-locked, but it’s tagged to my personal magic infused in the ecto trapped in my body.”

“This is so cool. And looks and feels nothing like any magi-tech I’ve seen before.” Billy said excitedly pulling up the internet. The slide out keyboard takes some time to adjust too.

“It is. Shits weird as hell but works.”

“As amusing as this all is, let’s ask the big questions, the king is a child, being hunted in this plane by a government institution. How are we all still alive or this world not roiling in chaos shut off from the infinite realms?”

“Kid has family here he loves. And he doesn’t know he can do that I think. Or he knows he can but hasn’t figured out how. There is an interim government running the show, crown prince is the title he claims. An endless he calls frostbite is the sitting king. And Danny is hiding from the court so threy don’t declare war or cut us off. Kids trying to save the world. He only partially understands the risks to existence as a whole.”

“Frostbite is the endless of healing.” Billy said. “Solomon says.”

“Could be worse.” June said.

“Fright night is his personal knight and uncle to 3 of the halfa’s.” Boston offered. “And time is their grandfather and I'd say their most powerful parent.”

“I’m sorry what? What is a halfa?” Billy asked.

“It’s what they refer to themselves as. Half ghost.”

“That is the most unnuanced way you could possibly describe a polaritera.” Jason Blood huffed out a breath.

“Yeah well, so far we have a 1,2,8, and 20ish year old. I don’t think nuance is their strong suit. And did you miss the part about raised by quack ghost hunters. Things are going to be off.”

“It will not be a great task for me to steer free of gotham John. It is time for me to take my leave.” Swampthing said.

“I’ll let you know if this gets buggered more than it is already and we need ya friend.” John waved him off as he slipped back into the earth below the house through the floorboards.

“At Least we know Swamp Thing is not concerned.” Bobo said after the avatar of the green left.

“Not yet.”

“So are we looking for a spy on the watchtower?” Billy asked excitedly.

“You are shit at stealth. So no. Leave it to bats and his lot. Keep your head down and mouth shut for now.”

“Lame.” Billy passed the phone back to John.

“Fate of reality!” John said sharply. “Keep your head down.”

“I will. Chill.” Billy pouted, crossing his arms.

“You have a direct tip line if things go to shit?” June asked rhetorically. “Then just remember the rest of us if you need help.”

“Fate of reality is in the hands of the justice league convincing the American government to cease war mongering against the dead they see as a power mine. I think everyone needs to prepare for the worst.”

“You are such a pessimist.” Billy goaded. Getting a small round of chuckles from the adults. “The justice league can handle it.”

“Let’s hope so kiddo.”

Chapter Text

“Go Danny go! Beat his jolly ass down!” Ellie cheered cackling with laughter at her big brother's final snap after going through a seasonal holiday market.

“should we add this to his list of triggers?” Pam asked watched her nephew beat the ever loving shit out of some poor saps inflatable holiday display. He was taking particular heavy aggression out on the Santa.

“De better question is do we stop him like good responsible adults or let him just finish his thing, or what?” Harley asked before sucking down her hot holiday flavored beverage.

“I’m not aiming for sainthood. Are you sweetheart?” Ivy asked as Danny shot off an ecto blast. “No powers! You want to vandalize, do it with your bare hands!”

“Can I help?” Ellie asked, turning her wide eyes and wide grin on her aunts.

“Knock yaself out kid.” Harley gestured towards her brother. Who wasted no time running in to help. “No saints here. Yuh with me? But dis does put a damper on Christmas shoppin'.”

“Selina isn’t going to be pleased, nor Jason.”

“Damn dat kid is vicious. Okay? they ripped Rudolph's head clean off. " Harley stuffed her drink into her elbow to clap.

“They obviously need this.”

Chapter Text

“You know, since Danny hates Christmas so much and it’s bringing him such stress, let's just cut all of that out this year, and just do Hanukkah.” Pam suggested.

“Brucie is half Jewish too. So it’s not like it wouldn’t be out of the family traditions box.'' Harley added.

“Could introduce the kiddos to their mutual family heritage, while avoiding a trigger of his old life.” Pam pushed. Both women watched Selina intently. Both of the kids were out terrorizing the streets of Gotham. So they could speak freely. “While making some new wholesome family memories here.”

Selina swirled her wine glass a bit. “That sounds fair. But do we need to tell them it’s related to their father?”

“Girl I love ya, but dat ball is rolling down de ramp and gaining speed. Yuh with me? He’s gonna find out sooner rather than later.” Harley said legs bent over the back of the couch and head pillowed on Pam's lap. “Batsy knows somethin' is up. Right? He’s lookin' for clues to support denial. But he knows. Once he has all his ducks in a row he’s gonna get in de attic and we ain’t gonna dust mop him out.”

“They are doing good with their siblings. I Don't think that’s going to cause trauma for them to find out that’s all their siblings.”

“Overwhelmin' as hell. Right? Like my god, man is terrified of empty nest syndrome.” That got a snort out of Selina. And Pam smiled down at her.

“Bruce is going to be an overbearing thorn in our ass once he figures it out. The kids don't’ deserve that.'' Selina sighed. Harley reached over and took her hand.

“We aren’t gonna let him be an asshole to them. But I do think the kids should get to eventually know and meet him if they choose.”

“I give it till de school year is up.” Harley said. “Bet.” the two other women rolled their eyes.

“We should have our army by then. At the rate we are going." Selina let out another sigh. “But we can feed them some information I guess so it’s not as overwhelming.”

“That’s the spirit.”

“Not de Christmas spirit.” Harley cackled. Ignoring the wine splashed on her face. “I need a better menorah. Yuh with me? We need somethin' bigger and better for de kiddos first Hanukkah.”

“Nothing gaudy please. A tasteful piece." Pam rubbed at her temple.

“De kids are dead, I was sittin' on a cool skeleton one.” Harley pouted as she flipped through her shopping wish list. “What about gaudy but not too spooky. Right?” she flipped her phone around to show a cute cat menorah. “It needs to be repainted, but it’s cute and matches our little family. Yuh got me so far?”

Selina cooed, grabbing at the phone for a closer look. “That’s adorable. I love it!” Selina gave her vote, passing the phone to pam.

“Obviously 3 of the cats must be black.” Pam gave her own approval.

“I think 4 even if we are missin' their older brother. And one ginger for their missing big sis. Yuh with me? Can’t leave huh out. Okay?” Harley said. “Den one Harley Quinn for me. Yuh got me so far? And a green kitty for yuh.”

“Make the center one white.” Selina said softly. “For their extended ghost family.”

“What? Not one for Jason?” Harley pouted.

“He counts as a ghost. But I think we’d have to do another full bats and birds one at that point." Selina argued.

“Maybe next year.'' Pam countered. "I'll go shopping tomorrow ang get a big thing of oil, and some other ingredients and we can cook up some dishes with the kids. They really need to learn to cook.”

“We keep it vegetarian and Danny is more willing to try cooking.” Selina suggested.

“Ellie seems too eager to fight her food.” pam informed with a concerned look.

“Vegetarian Hanukkah it is!”

“I’ll try to plan a nice menu. We can try on days we do a fried course to maybe have a nice light salad to cut through it too.” pam said starting to set her mind on the task categorizing the types of foods they’d want to make for the holiday.

“Can we do a day of makin' bread too, or what?” Harley asked.

“Sure. The kids can knead. Put that super strength to work.”

“I’ll get the chocolate and dreidels and candles. Harley, you are the Jewish one. You get to plan the teaching aspects.” Selina stated.

“And de decorations'!”

“And the decorating.” the other two ladies parroted.

Chapter Text

“Hey there blue boy.” Duplicat said turning visible just as she landed on his back. The super flinching.

“Please don’t do that! It’s very nerve wracking when you don’t have a heartbeat.” Jon asked with a pout.

Robin paid the two youngers no mind while he scanned around. He drew his sword and swung it carefully as he turned in the direction of the last member of their party who turned visible just before the blade stopped at his nose. “I thought I had you that time!” Danny pouted, crossing his arms. “I didn’t even breathe.”

Robin gave him a smug grin. “You must try harder then.”

“Ugh!” Schrodinger pouted. “We hanging around here? Or heading somewhere else?”

“We are headed to Otisburg. Signal has had reports of strange shipments arriving in the area, of what seems to be advanced electronics and computer parts, typically found in advanced robotics. We are going to survey the area for a report.” Robin informed them he frowned though at the glowing grins from the kittens though.

“Is that a jumping distance or is that a flying distance?” Ellie asked, staring him down. Her grin growing at his held eye contact.

“Grappling with suffice.”

“Superboy do you know which way to go?” Danny asked as Ellie jumped off him to land next to Danny.

“Uh yeah I do.” Jon answered.

“Do not!” Damian got out before he had a kitten on each arm hefting him up. Though flying with the kittens was far different than with the supers. He felt like gravity no longer had pull on him. “Put me down! You are not supposed to be flying.”

“Not supposed to be caught flying.'' Ellie said mischievously.

“You can though. Really freak some criminals out.'' Danny continued before both turned invisible with Robin struggling between them.

“This is absurd!” Robin said as the group headed towards Otisburg. The kittens positioned him next to Superboy as they flew.

“Put your arms out, rob!” Ellie sassed. Trying to force his arm out

“Yeah rob.” Danny and Jon said. He heard Danny laughing next to him.

“Absolutely not!” he put in the effort to cross his arms against their hold as they moved across the Gotham sky. He has never been so grateful for kittens’ interference abilities. And then Danny started to make wooshing noises and Ellie and Jon followed suit. “Cease this childish behavior at once! We are professionals! Act like it!”

“We’re ProfEssIonAls!” The kittens mocked and Jon laughed at them.

“Man robin is worse than jazz.” Ellie complained.

“I know, youngblood is going to have a field day on him if we don’t get him to lighten up.” Danny said.

“Who is youngblood?” Jon asked before Robin could.

“He’s a ghost. He can only be seen by kids. If you act too much like a grown up you can’t see him." Danny said.

“Our big sis couldn’t see him till she acted like a kid.” Ellie said.

“Is this ghost a child?” Robin asked stiffly.

“Oh yeah, he’s actually an adult in ghost years. We are pretty sure he died during the Spanish flu. He was always sick from what we can tell before he died. He didn’t get a childhood in life so he spends his entire afterlife living out his imaginary adventures when he was a kid. He died when he was around 8-10. It’s kind of hard to tell.”

“You can’t ask?” Jon asked.

“Well he probably doesn’t remember. And it’s rude and traumatizing to ask a ghost about their death." Schrodinger answered.

“Yeah, never do that unless you want to get punched through a building.” Duplicat said. “Not all of us have died either. Some of us are born that way.” Jon went a bit wide eyed at the statement.

“So yeah lighten up, be the kid that you are. So you can hang out with our friends when they can come visit." Danny finished. “Cause he is going to love playing with you guys, whether you can see him or not.”

“We are not children, we are vigilantes working.”

“We are child vigilantes, heroes and anti-heroes.” the kittens said together as they landed on a water tower in the area they intended to patrol.

“You are not anti-heroes.” Robin scolded.

“We are wanted by the government. For execution. That totally counts as anti-hero.” Duplicat sassed.

“I mean, they do have a point rob and I mean they are red hood’s side kicks.”

That set off the two siblings in a cackling fit as they returned to the visible spectrum. “Never let him hear you say that.” Robin warned the young super. “Some level of seriousness would be appreciated before you ruin our stealth.”

“Have you looked at yourself in a mirror there, ninja boy?”

“Nothing is serious about us running around in costume in the middle of the night scaring criminals.”

“Furry brigade away!” Ellie cheered running across the roof, Danny on her heels laughing.

Jon looked at Robin's annoyed face and laughed. “I expected better of you Superboy.” Robin said before grappling after the other two. Jon flying after them easily.

Chapter Text

“Did you have a better evening than this morning, kids?” Selina asked as her children burst into the house.

“It was awesome!” Ellie said phasing off her costume.

“We stopped 3 muggings, a carjacking, and some sort of shady sale, I'm not sure what though. Robin knew though.'' Danny answered, following suit. He picked up his and Ellie's gear and took it to the laundry room to wash.

“Can you put mine in too sweetheart. I have errands tomorrow.” Selina asked. Harley should have some darks to go in too.

“And we bullied Robin till he acted his age.” Ellie said excitedly flying through the kitchen grabbing stuff to make an after patrol snack. Selina could make out sandwich fixings.

“Oh?” asked Selina. “And what pray tell my kittens did that entail?”

“We got him to do a contest with us. Of spotting all the places who hadn’t put up Christmas decor yet. And who spotted the most." Ellie said as she assembled her and Danny's food.

Danny came out of the laundry room with two ecto coolers from the mini fridge in there. “Also tag. But I didn't get the jump on him. Ellie snuck up on Superboy though." Danny pouted, passing Ellie her cooler and Danny taking one sandwich from her.

“I’m sure you will figure out how to scare him at some point, kitten.” Selina consoled. “Were there injuries?” she asked, pointing at the coolers.

“No.” Ellie said with a mouthful of food.

Selina squinted at them for a few minutes. Neither looked away.

“Documentaries tomorrow after school. Both of you.” she stated. “Also how do you kids feel about starting new holiday traditions?”

“I’d rather just skip Christmas all together.” Danny grumbled. While Ellie shrugged.

“There are holiday traditions in this family besides Christmas sweetheart. You know Harley is half Jewish right?” she got a nod from both kids. “Well so is your father. Would you be up for just doing Hanukkah this year?”

“Sure.” Ellie said with another shrug.

Danny stared at her quietly while he finished his sandwich and then kind of played with his ecto cooler. “You know who my bio dad is?” he asked softly.

“We do, yes.'' Selina answered. “I’ve always known.'' She brought herself to the kitchen to sit on a stool at the island the kids were at. “Your bio dad and i have had a bit of a rollercoaster of a relationship, both platonic and romantic.”

“Like you Harley and pam?” Ellie asked.

“I would say, even though I love your bio dad. Our relationships have been much rockier. Harley and ivy are more supportive when our ideals or life styles don’t sync up. They are more flexible and open minded.” She gave them a pout. “But I will say that right now my relationship with Pam and Harley is more stable and platonic…”

“Bullshit.” the kids both said. Giving their mom a deadpan look.

“Harley and Pam are in a committed relationship with each other.” Selina glared at the kids a bit. “And though I am a part of their lives, as you are, I am not…”

“Oh my gawd Selina stop lyin' to de kids. ” Harley whined coming down from the bedrooms with Ivy. “the open door policy means yuh are one of us. Right?”

That had the kids snorting and start chanting lowly one of us with Harley.

“We aren’t friends with benefits here sweetheart.” Ivy said teasingly as the kids laughed. And Selina glared and shoved the woman with her shoulder. “We are family however that entails, just because it’s not the white picket fence. Doesn’t make it not so.”

“Kinda figured it out a while ago. Poly isn’t odd in the realms. Or like an unknown idea.” Danny said with a grin.

“Unfortunately,” Selina spoke up firmly. “Your bio father is not the only one who fickle in his relationships, so i am not…”

“Yuh are. Yuh got me so far? Even if yuh drift away for a bit ya are still our kitty, always Selina." Harley said. “Just like dese two little trouble makers.” she hugged them tight, before glaring. “Hey yuh made sandwiches without me! Okay? Rude! Okay?”

“On it!” Ellie said getting everything out again.

“Just like how you will always love a certain tall dark and handsome love, we will also always love you.”

“Your mom is tryin' to say yuh haven’t met him cause their relationship is as rocky as rocky road ice cream, but actually it’s cause your daddy is as cuckoo as an old timey clock. He’s about as stable as our polycule. Which is why she’s in denial about both still wit' ya cuties. She’s worried you’ll get attached de wrong way and get hurt when tings change again.”

“I mean ghosts don’t normally do well with change, but halfa’s are a bit of an exception.”

“Harley and I also do not wish to be mothers. We are happy to be aunts. But there was concern on that front.”

“We like our cool aunts.”

“Are we going to get to meet my dad? Or is he going to get to meet us?” Danny asked carefully.

“Unfortunately we can only delay the inevitable.” Pam said.

“He’s kind of a nosey bastard. Yuh with me?”

“Yes, but I am trying to arrange it so it is the least dramatic as it can be.”

“Your old man is de kin' of dramatics. Put everyone here to shame.”

Danny gave a giggle snort. “Really? I mean I'd have thought this family was the raining empire of dramatics.”

“I wish, but no, you kids come by it naturally.”

“Oh yeah, my creator mom is over the top too. Guess that’s why I'm worse than you dad.” Ellie cackled passing Harley her sandwich. Danny pouted at her.

“When we meet him can I call him gramps?” Ellie asked.

“Yes!” Harley said. Pam was quiet but amused.

“I’d prefer not, but when the situation arises you can make that call and I won't stop you.” Selina sighed. “So are you up for celebrating Hanukkah?”

“Yeah, I'm willing to try that.” Danny said.

“Good cause I got us de cutest menorah. Wait till ya see it. Okay?”

Chapter Text

“Dude?” “My man?” “Vengeance of the night?” Danny and Ellie whined as they laid out on a rooftop starfished. Waiting on robin to finish his scouting of a delivery van at the docks, similar to one they had messed with before. Jon was sitting nearby behind a wall but listening in for robin to the obvious henchmen.

“You two need to learn patience.” Damian chided them while looking out his binoculars. They were too far for just the ones built into his mask. Because he couldn’t trust the two kittens to keep a low profile. Or silent.

“Oh there is a star there! look!” Ellie pointed between the smog clouds.

“Patience is a conspiracy.” Danny deadpanned eyes locked to the gap to watch the sky.

“They are definitely making a delivery. And it’s the same markings on the crates, Robin." Jon said.

“We will follow in pursuit and hope it takes us to the source.” Robin said mostly for the newer additions benefit.

“We lost the last one after we stopped that carjacking. So why don’t we just jump on this one?” Ellie asked.

“Yeah, we can scare them into telling us where it is going.”

“Father doesn’t approve of torture for interogations.'' Damian informed them, getting packed up so they could pursue more easily. “And I would like to get this case completed before Christmas week. I will not be able to patrol for several days then.”

“Ugh why?” Danny asked. “Why does Christmas have to ruin everything!”

“Yeah I'll be going to my Grandma’s out in the midwest for that week too.” Jon said quietly, shrinking a bit under Danny's glare.

“You going out of town too Robin?” Ellie asked.

“Unfortunately no. but I am under obligation to attend several commitments. I would prefer to be patrolling the streets with you but that just is not an option. Black Bat and Spoiler will be patrolling more often than the rest of us though should you need assistance. calling oracle will also alert us if you need assistance” he signaled for them to pursue and their group was off in stealth. The kittens are invisible. But from Jon's head movements their hearts were still beating at least. If not slow as he had voiced a concern about before. “You seem to have more animosity towards this holiday than myself Schrodinger. May I enquire the reason for such?”

“I love Christmas!” Jon said just loud enough for their group to hear. Ellie grabbed Superboy, turning him invisible as one of the men looked out the van and up at the rooftops at a light. Robin had no trouble hiding himself among the shadows.

“My old parents used to fight about christmas and santa so badly. It got very heated and hostile every year. It was stressful and nerve wracking, and me and my sister were worried they’d divorce every year over it. The fighting would cause something to go catastrophically wrong every year. It would start earlier and earlier with all the stores starting sooner for the shopping season. It’s nothing but stress and nightmares waking up doesn’t end.”

“But the presents are worth it right?” Jon asked innocently as they followed again when the light changed.

“What presents? What meaningless thing is worth my parents being at each other's throats non-stop for almost 2 months?” Danny grumbled back. Jon pulled his shoulders to his ears.

“Well it’s not like we have to worry about it this year. I think this year will be better. And we can have our first real holiday together!” Ellie said excitedly.

“Did you not have holiday’s together before?” robin asked

“No, this will be the first year. I made it to thanksgiving. But we didn’t get to fight a reanimated turkey, only smaller poultry so that was disappointing to still miss.” Ellie laminated. “But now we get to experience something new together!’

“What’s that?” Jon asked.

“We are doing Hanukkah in a few days cause apparently it’s not just Harley's religious holiday but my bio dad’s” Danny answered softly.

Robin felt him pass him. “You will be spending the holiday with your biological father?”

“No, we don’t actually know who he is or met him. But mom and our aunts told us that about him." Ellie said passing him to and Jon became visible again.

“There are gun shots that way.” Jon pointed in a direction opposite of the van they were following.

“We can take it, while you follow the van or we can follow the van while you handle the shooting?” Danny offered. Both cats came into view on the nearby roof. While robin took a second to debate.

“We will all attend to the shooting. It is better if we stick together for now.” Robin said before the four changed course.

“Let me drop a tracker on the van at least.” Ellie said, flying up next to rob. “I’m faster than Schrodinger.”

“Barely!” Danny pouted.

Robin pulled one out and handed it to her. “Be quick, you can follow us?”

“Yeah, no problems tracking my template.” and Ellie split off.

Jon kept an ear out for her just in case. “Uh the shooting is increasing.”

Chapter Text

“Alright we got our podcast playlist up.” Harley said pointing to the laptop in the living room. “And homework is done!”

“yeah!” Both kids cheered.

“So who wants to make some pancakes!”

“We do!”

Pam shook her head. But slid down 4 box graters. “She left off the potato part. They are called latkes. So we are pealing sweet potatoes, russet, onions and carrots, and then grating them.” She walked to the living room and grabbed a big rubber made tote. “Scraps here. She went back to the living room and another larger rubber made tote. “Shreds here. I'm going to fill this with water and lemon halves so nothing browns.” Pam started pulling out a bag of lemons while the sink sprayer filled the tub.

“No hands on knives please.” Selina said, coming in with a large box of carrots. Grundy and croc followed her each with a huge bushel bag of potatoes, one a bushel of onions and another of sweet potatoes.

“What are we doing?” Croc asked after they set down the bags. The kids waste no time using their powers to pull some out along with knives from the block to start peeling them. Harley started halving onions to make them easier to peel and cutting off the root ends. Once they were the kids grabbed them with gloved hands while grating them.

“Need you boys to grab some clean towels from the closet. And when I finish this, I'll have you wring out the batches of shred as I need to cook them. Over that other tote. Or the scraps tote. That's going into the compost.” Pam addressed them. Sliding the tote out of the way so Selina could wash the carrots and toss them up on the table for Harley to cut off the green tops and set them aside. “Also can one of you get my new big griddle from the storage room?”

Grundy headed to the storage room. “We're frying these right? Need me to get that jug of veggie oil outside?” Croc asked after coming back with towels.

“Yes please.” Pam asked.

Selina moved out of the kitchen with a large bowl scraping the kids near mash from how vigorously they were shredding vegetables to put in the lemon water. “Are we angry with the food kittens?”

“I'm picturing them as my creators' faces.” Ellie said with glee.

“Ooooh I was picturing Santa and agent k and o. I like that too though.” Danny replied.

“Pass me one of those graters. okay?” Harley asked before going to town while mumbling mistah J over and over.

“We feeding an army?” Croc asked, looking at the volume.

“Leslie said the kids are losing weight.” Selina said with some concern.

“They're what?” Jason asked, coming in on the conversation as he walked into the house.

“It’s not that much.” Danny mumbled. But Jason heard it.

“It’s enough for her to voice her concerns.” Selina said to the kids in a scolding manner. They were trying too hard to hide that they were struggling. “She suggested we try to up their calorie intake. They can eat their own mass about every three to four hours, she believes. The suggestion was to try and match that amount at meal time and get as many calories as we can in them.”

“Do we have enough ecto coolers for you guys to have one with every meal?” Jason asked as he came into the kitchen.

“Yeah, that wouldn’t affect our emergency rations nor what i pull for ectoshot production.'' Danny answered.

“How many machines do you need to build to get the ecto coolers up to 9 a day for each of you?” Jason asked.

“Like 4. But that doesn’t leave anything for me to build with.” Danny said. “But i mean I could get more production with what I have by spacing them out a bit more too. And where would I even put 4 new machines? The closer they are, the less effective they are.”

“We could hide them around the city.” Ellie suggested.

“That’s dangerous!” Danny scolded. “What if something happens? Like someone finds it and breaks the containment before it stabilizes in the condenser? What if someone steals some to play with they could die or hurt someone? Or destabilize it or the guys in white find it.”

“I’ll figure out stashes. 5 machines Danny as soon as you can. We don’t wait to scavenge, get me a list of what you need." Jason said.

Danny rolled his eyes but mumbled his agreement.

Selina went back to moving shred to the lemon water while the kids and Harley shredded and peeled like the wind.

“Waylon first batch please!” Pam pointed to the towel on the counter. Croc went to grab it and began twisting the towel around the items. Pam had a bowl at the ready by the stove to receive them.

“Where do you ladies need me?” Jason asked, grabbing his apron from the pantry closet.

“Man the grill line cook!” Harley shouted. “Get him a joint, it can be just like waffle house.”

“Waste of a good bud.” Pam countered. Moving around them. “But good, I can work on the salad and dressings for the latkes then.”

Grundy lifted the jug and carefully poured some oil onto the hot griddle that took up the stove top. “Thanks Grundy, how big we making these things?” Jason asked, waiting for the oil to heat up and spreading it with one of his spatulas. He had a large rectangle one and one that looked more like a flattened skillet.

“As big as you can flip!” Harley said.

“Use your powers and it can be the size of the whole griddle like a giant one we share at the table!” Danny and Ellie said excitedly. Several large chunks coming off with the peels in their distraction.

“Yes!!!!” Harley cheered.

“Nothing larger than a plate please!” Pam corrected over the top. To the kids and Harley's whine of a protest.

“Grundy, take Bud and Lou for a walk please.” Selina asked.

“Eh, let's do the last one as a big giant for fun. I’ll split with the kids." Jason said. He tossed some sage rosemary and thyme from Pam's garden into the hot oil spreading it around for flavor.

“Ya just want to see if you can flip it.” Harley teased.

“Yeah I do.”

Croc laughed at that while Grundy's own amusement came through while he got Bud and Lou on leashes.

Once all the veggies had been prepared the kids worked on cleaning up and Harley on setting the table. They had decided to put the menorah on the front window above their new door. Mostly because it was the only window for safety reasons on the living floor besides the one in the laundry and storage rooms that locked and bolted to the side alley, and the back kitchen window over the sink. And a set of rainbow candles that were cast to look like stacks of yarn balls. (more so anal beads if you asked Harley. Even if that got her batted by Selina when she said it. But Pam and Jason had laughed too.) Harley had a book sitting on the couch to read to the kids. The miracles of Chanukah: then and now to get them started with the first day. The thought was to read a few each day before they said their prayers and lit the candles. Pam pulled Harley into the kitchen to drag the salad and toppings for the latkes to the table, while the kids chanted giant pancake, floating at Jason's shoulders. Selina was dabbing excess grease off the finished ones and lightly salting and peppering them before putting them on a serving platter. Like a real nice one. Harley didn’t remember them having. She maybe smiled dopey a little too long at her family as Grundy and croc spotted her coming back in. Grundy with bud and Lou and croc had taken out the totes to the compost bin they had in the back alley.

“You ok there Harley?” Waylon asked.

“Yeah. I'm just really happy. this is nice. Like real nice. Like when we was kids ya know?” She squatted down to pet her hyenas. Before jumping up and yelling “giant pancake!” with a shout with the kids and running to the kitchen.

“We are not ready yet! One more set, then I will drop the rest of the hash.” Jason shouted over them. Pam and Selina did well to snap lot’s of photos on their phones for the evening of the family.

Chapter Text

“Dick I need a few favors for the kids.” Jason said into the private call he made on patrol.

“What’s up jaybird? Is everything ok?'' Nightwing said, swinging his escrima sticks at an attacker's weapon while he chatted on his blue tooth.

“Not really no.'' Jason stalked some gangbangers down an alley. They were from the same gang that got in a shootout with the Falcone's the kids busted up. “Something is wrong. They are losing weight. And it’s not making sense, but I don't really understand our biology, the doc is trying her best. But her information is coming from the kids, who are just blowing it off and saying everything is fine and normal. They are not getting something they need. The plan is to try and up their calorie intake and the ectocoolers. To compensate.”

Dick made a more vicious hit on the crook he was fighting, taking him down hard. One of the criminals took off fast. A non-bantering Nightwing was something crooks and criminals learned to fear in Bludhaven. “What do the kittens need? What can I do?” Dick asked, throwing his escrima stick and nailing the runner in the back with the taser, before going after number 3.

Jason let out a deep sigh a bit frustrated with what he had to ask. “You got a stash for your speedster friend right? Of those special protein bars the league buys for them right? Think you’d bust into some to share with the kids? Or maybe hit Bs stash in the cave?”

“Can do on both. And I can get you on the approved order logs too.” Dick said, punching the other guy in the jaw knocking him out. “The speedsters have a secure storage unit full. I can probably get kid flash to run some to town too.”

“I don't think we are in the red yet.”

“But you don't know for sure.” Nightwing said while securing the goons.

“B, is losing his shit enough as it is over all the metas in Gotham, you bring in a speedster and he's going…”

“To have kittens! Would you look at that?” Nightwing teased. “Hey there kid flash I need a favor.” Nightwing said as he finished securing the goons and grappled back away.

“Did you put me on a group call Dickhead?”

“OH my god, you bats, some of us sleep at night.” Wally mumbled into the phone. “Is this an emergency?”

“Hang Up Now!” Hood growled into the phone.

“How fast can you get some of your special energy bars to me and how many can you spare?”

“Only limited by what I can carry in a trip. What's going on? One of you bats turn speedster?”

“Nope, got 2 new meta siblings who are starting to show signs they are struggling with calorie uptake.”

“I'm gonna punch your fucking face in Dickhead!”

“Grabbing the fam.”

“Absolutely not!”

“Be there in 30”

“My place, not the cave!” Dick got out.

“Got it!” And Wally dropped his end of the call.

“I'm going to learn to teleport just so I can beat your ass whenever I get the itch too!”

Nightwing heard gunshots in the background. “Sounds like you're busy, see ya tomorrow with the goods hood.” and hung up on his brother as he hustled back to the safe house Wally thinks is his apartment.

Nightwing picked up the call from Wally.

“Here bud.”

“Open the window please.” he Said after finishing a loop around the building before dropping in.

“Hey Nightwing.” Barry waved. “If this is good for a little while I'm gonna split, tell bats to just ring star labs if you guys need more. I didn't know he adopted more kids.”

Nightwing smiled at Barry. “He didn't and he doesn’t know yet.”

“OH sweet we are keeping secrets from Batman that is so crash!.” Impulse said chewing on a bar. “Yo red, calm down I'm at your brother's everything is fine.” he stood up talking into his coms. “What?”

“Nightwing are you ok? Do you need support?” red robin came in on his com.

“Aw I love the predictability of paranoid bats siblings. Hi RR we are all fine." Nightwing smirked. “I needed a delivery made.” he held up 3 fingers and started lowering them. When they were all gone a woosh was heard outside the window. “Can you meet superboy at the bridge? Bike is probably the best.”

Barry held his hands up. “If you guys are at odds with bats right now I don't think I want in on it.”

“Wait wait this is just starting to get good.” Wally grabbed him.

Kon flew into the apartment. “Red everyone is fine they just have 4 cases of energy bars. And talking.” he turned to Nightwing and glared at him. “Dude quit freaking out your brother. The fucking jr squad is freaking out at oracle cause the kittens are saying hood’s pissed. And that feedback is hard on the ears.”

“Oh I bet it’s his doing.” Tim must have forced all the coms together.

“I thought we were the jr squad? Who are the kittens?” Impulse asked.

“Oh, no no no.” Barry said, stepping back. “I am out. He will know I know. And he will grill me. I’m out. see you at home don’t tell me a damn thing.” and with that Barry was gone.

Wally laughed at Barry's retreat. “Hey RR, can you and oracle find their location from that call in?” Nightwing asked.

“Oh my gawd you asshole.” oracle came in. “one of my speakers blew, you are buying me a new one.”

“Ugh O, can we track?”

“Working on it. Mostly so I can cut down on the feedback. It helps if I shut down my connection to the nearby cameras and mics.” o said. “Kids. I'm working on it. Calm down please. You are making the connection worse. Robin Superboy calm them down. I’m sure hood is fine. Tell them Nightwing pissed him off with a prank.”

“How many pockets you got empty Kon?” Nightwing asked.

“Enough? What the hell is going on?” he asked, hands on his hips. “Dude supes is gonna show up if we don’t get things cleared up. He keeps an ear on his kid.” he looked at Impulse who shrugged.

“Your guess is as good as mine man.”

Nightwing pried open one of the boxes. “I’ll send you the money for these Wally. And thanks.”

“Not a big deal man but seriously what’s going on?”

“Take as many of these as you can, even numbers please cause they will fight over them and robin and baby blue will lose control of them quickly.” Nightwing said waving over Superboy who started doing just that. While quirking a brow at him.

“Pay attention baby bird but try not to panic too much more, I think we should hurry, because hood doesn’t have full information and the kittens are blowing it off.”

“Well shit.”

Kon started stuffing more carefully in his coat to maximize space.

“Wait, do you know who the kittens are Kon?” Impulse asked. He looked at the other man in shock. “Dude! Red told you something before me?” Impulse pouted. “How could you leave me out red?”

“I didn’t bring in Kon, Robin did!” Tim defended. “How deficient do we think they are?”

“They are dropping weight enough the doc was concerned.” Nightwing said. “And Jason was concerned enough to call me and ask for a break into the cave stash.”

“Kon I'll meet you at the bridge to the north island on the mid island.”

“Which one?”

“The one near the docks. The kids are in Otisburg.” oracle came in over the coms. “They aren’t moving at the moment. But Robin is pissed. Jon spilled the conversation to their little group. And now robin is fighting with the kittens. I have them on mute because the interference keeps going up and down.” oracle sighed. “There were less atomic ways to do this Dick.”

“Got it.” and Superboy left in a rush.

“Where would the fun in that be and this was the fastest without having to explain everything over and over again.”

“Convince Schrodinger to show me his freaking tech and we can all be on the same page!” red robin shouted at them.

“Batman has more bio kids he doesn’t know about? And they aren’t clones?” Wally asked, shocked. In a mix of panic and cringe in his expression.

“Oh, ho ho ho.” Impulse laughed.

“Well I know one is not, and the other is as much of a clone as Kon.” Dick answered with a shrug.

“For the love of Rao fuck what!”

“Dick!” oracle chastised.

“I almost hit a radio tower. Thanks”

“He is 13!” Tim screeched. “That’s creepier than Luthor!”

That had Wally’s eyes wide and Impulse cringing and squatting towards the ground.

“Clark please, please keep quiet. Don’t tell Batman, don’t tell batman.” Kon chanted.

“Oh, i hate the name Duplicat more now.”

“I’m sorry, what was that?” Wally asked. “Dick, bro, my man, are you naming these new kids?”

Impulse laughed. “Kittens, I get that now. That’s great!”

“They are Catwoman’s kids' Impulse.” red said. “And if hood goes on a rampage I'm laying this at your feet.”

“Our kittens are slowly starving, I think he’ll get over it.” Dick sassed back. “I’m hoping you guys got some pointers here for super high metabolism. And can make a diet or recipe book.”

“If you have data on their metabolism…” Wally started.

“We don't’ even have an understanding of their biology. And they aren’t going to allow testing.” red robin said. “I have the drop off. Headed to the brats. They eat trash, I’m sure there is some dietary issue we are going to miss.”

“I’m sorry they what?” Wally asked. “What kind of metagene is that?”

“Well they aren’t human.”

“Is Batman a secret alien?” Impulse asked.

“No, the kids are more part human part magical creatures. The hope is the human side can be maintained enough to do the upkeep for their magical half.” Dick said.

“Dude why not get justice league dark to answer,”

Dick just shook his head. “Busy with something else and they sorta know what’s going and yeah it’s more complicated, but i need ways to get as much calories in them as we can “

“Robin wants to know if they need benched, or if using their powers is making things worse. And the kittens are arguing benching them will only make things worse, and they will go fuck off on their own.” Kon came in. “and they are yelling at each other again.”

“They are the only ones with any information! We have no data to argue them with!" Tim said, aggravated. “Stay put, I'm coming with some emergency rations.”

Kon landed back in the apartment, arms crossed over his chest. Dick just shrugged at him. “Thanks superboy.” he got an eye roll in response.

“Do we need to get the rest of this into gotham?” he asked.

“No, I can go in my car tomorrow. But seriously thanks." Nightwing said with a pat on his shoulder.

“So wait, you said one was 13, is the not clone younger?” Impulse asked. Dick smiled and nodded. “Oh robin has little baby siblings!”

“That he doesn't’ know are his siblings yet. And it is going to stay that way so no one gets stabbed.” Kon said solidly to make sure Jon heard.

“They have a little baby team of their own. Oh that’s cute. And right at that age point the rest of you did too right?'' Wally asked. “Bat kid right of passage that’s so cute. But send me any data you can and I will get a team at star labs started on a serious nutrition plan ok. But i think now it’s time for us to go home for bed. If the crisis is averted.

“What the hell! you just pulled food out of your chests!” red robin’s voice over the com overlaid heavily in static. “No, do not eat that. You have no idea what that does… what do you mean reanimate meat? Oh oh vegetarian so it’s fine, this is fine. This is not fine! Robin b can not risk anymore paranoia right now, we are one emotionally heavy hit from a bat break down.”

The other three in the room looked to Superboy for context. “Uh happy Hanukkah? The kids are sharing their leftover dinner of latkes they had stored in ziplock bags wrapped in foil inside their chests. And they are vegetarian so the radiation they put out won’t reanimate the food they store there. Which they are saying like it’s a serious thing, and the new one is disappointed because she likes fighting the reanimated food. And Jon and Robin are both trying one. Thank Rao Tim has more sense than to do that.”

“They treat their bodies like Mary Poppins bags RR.” Dick reminded, Cheerily.

“I didn’t need that mental image.” oracle came over the coms.

“They are trying to make a point that they come prepared with food.”

“There are meat products in the energy bars!” Wally said. Cause that seemed important with growing context.

“Don’t let them put the meat sticks in their persons, got it.” red robin said over the static.

“Ok so we need to look into vegetarian energy bars at star labs. Got it, adding that to the list.”

“Dude.” Impulse said looking to Dick, “is it always this cray here? Is that why red runs off with us all the time?”

“Yes, but the kittens come with a whole new level. It’s going to take some getting used to.” Dick said.

“They ate the bags and foil Nightwing.” red came over the staticky coms voice resigned.

Wally mouthed what to Kon.

Nightwing let out a heavy sigh. “Yeah you have to be faster. Treat them like toddlers.”

“Oh they did not like you saying that.” Kon said, looking at him. “Wait, are they toddlers?” Kon stared shocked at Dick.

“Wha… he said they were 13? I heard it.” Impulse said.

“It’s complicated.” Nightwing said.

“Yeah, I'm going home. And going to bed now. Daylight hours, call me man." Wally gave him a two finger salute and headed home.

“See ya later Kon. Maybe you and red can debrief me too? That’d be nice to be in the loop?” Impulse looked to Nightwing when he just got a wave from Superboy, who was looking to the older.

“I’m sure young justice is gonna to get in the loop sooner than most of the league.” Nightwing said. “The kittens need to meet Secret anyway. They’ll adore each other.”

That caught Impulse’s attention. “Greta? Sweet. Catch you later then.” and Impulse left Superboy and Nightwing alone.

“Toddler ghosts, tween-teen human kids. With almost no idea how that is going to work. They know a ghost who has been between 8 and 10 for over a hundred years. And you knew this.” Kon asked. “Oh Tim is going to murder you.”

“He’s going to have to get in line. Hood promised to learn to teleport to kick my ass. And I'm looking forward to seeing him learn to do that." Nightwing laughed at Kon's gob smacked face.

Chapter Text

Tim was leaning back on a roof access stair case holding his head trying to gain control and organize all the information running through his head at this point. He wasn’t going to be able to patrol at this point. Which was going to make Batman even more paranoid over kittens and their effect on the family. The younger team was sitting cross legged like a scouts camping group around a fire at his feet talking amongst themselves. With Jon shooting him the occasional concerned glances.

“Though I do not like to agree with Red Robin’s assessments, it would be prudent if you could provide evidence that your health is not being jeopardized by continued use of your powers while on patrol, lowering energy output would be logical stance for humans in the same condition.”

“Ok, well it only sorta works that way cause we aren’t fully human.” Duplicat sassed. Munching on one of the energy bars.

“Well maybe explaining how you guys work would help?” Jon asked before shrinking under Schrodinger's glare.

“We will not use the information against either of you.” Robin said resolutely, staring the two down.

“Do you two know how to correct it?” Tim finally asked, not even looking up, eyes still in the palm of his hand.

“Sorta, I have a pretty good idea of why.” Danny answered with a flat hand shimmy.

“Then what is preventing you from taking corrective action?” Tim asked tiredly. Because they had reasons that they knew and understood. Logically under most circumstances someone isn’t going to slowly starve themselves if they could prevent it.

“The guys in white.” The two kittens answered like it was obvious.

Red Robin growled annoyed with the answer. “How, how do they prevent it? Explain yourselves so we can fix it!”

Danny and Ellie looked over at red robin suspiciously. “Red robin is not so foolish to use your words against you if he wishes to not meet my blade.”

“Thanks for that vote of confidence demon brat.”

“It takes more energy to use our powers in human form.” Danny and Ellie answered in unison.

“We can’t transform safely with 3 of us in the city and a zombie. And sometimes more of us show up too.” Danny answered. “My tech isn’t strong enough to hide all of us at full power like that. I don’t have the ability to make a scrambler that powerful and big enough. I don’t know if i even could if we could hide it.”

“There is one, we use when we have to transform so we don’t lose control of our powers, it covers one building.” Ellie added. “Not feeding our obsessions fully is also not helping.” she mumbled under her breath.

“Explain that, please. You’ve used that term before. We need to understand your biology in order to assist you.”

“I’m dead. I’m actually dead. Robin said please.”

“You’re not dead?” the kittens looked at him like he was stupid.

“Ignore him. How do you feed your obsessions? And why is hood not seemingly being as affected by these things as you are?”

“Oh hood isn’t losing weight?” Jon asked. Tim shook his head.

“Hood doesn’t hardly use his powers in human form.”

“He doesn’t have many either. Looser can barely fly.”

“I’m sorry, red hood can fly?” Tim asked. "he wasn't just saying that to piss off B?"

“Ehhhh” he got a so-so motion from the kittens.

“He says something about his dad being right about meta’s relying too much on their powers and he doesn’t want to do that again. So unless we are training he doesn’t and we usually train transformed in the safe area.'' Ellie said. “I think he’s worried he’s just gonna keep sucking at it cause he couldn't use his powers till later cause he was sick.”

“More like poisoned. That, whatever lazarus water is, is more like poison. It felt like when fruitloop poisoned me ramped up.”

“How did you find that out? That it felt like poison?” Tim asked, skipping over the part about lazarus water and them knowing the name but not what it is.

“I took it out of hood, on accident kind of. And to do that it absorbed into me. Till I puked up a lot of it and processed the rest out. Hood’s core couldn’t start processing properly with it in him.'' Danny answered.

“Back to obsessions. We need to get through each piece. "Robin cut in.

“Hood fulfills both his pretty easily. One is literature, and he reads all the time. He’s even reading to us tomorrow for the second day of Hanukkah. The other is tied to being a vengeful spirit. He gets revenge for victims of crimes most nights in the alley. So he is pretty set and safe from fading.'' Danny answered.

“So you're saying hood eats by reading and doling out justice?” Superboy asked curiously.

“Yeah.”

“Yours is something different though?” red robin asked.

“yeP.” Ellie popped her p. “I’m a free spirit. Adventure, traveling, experiencing new things, that’s how I feed my obsession. Learning. Going to start school soon. For the first time. Schrodinger thinks that might help a bit. Being here in Gotham was feeding me pretty well, but the longer I'm in one place the less I get from it.”

“Would leaving the north island count as a new place?” Robin asked.

“It would probably help, but we can’t leave the north island alone. We need an approved chaperone.” Ellie answered.

“We can go with you,” Red Robin offered.

“The city hasn’t approved robin or Superboy as chaperones.” Ellie said.

“The city?” Superboy asked.

“The city spirit. This is their haunt. If we get too close to the bridges like we are going to leave, they don’t get hostile, but we can feel their disapproval. And this is their haunt. We can’t fight a city to stay. And we don’t want to. They aren’t hostile to us, but we don’t want to give them an excuse.”

“I think they are protecting us in their own way.” Danny added. “We can leave with our family no issue. But if they aren’t with us, the city definitely scolds us to stay on this island.”

“The city is a ghost.” red robin said slowly.

“Yes, as they stated, red robin. Do keep up, or do you need a coffee to keep your mental facilities functioning at this point?” robin chided.

Red robin tossed his hands up. “Fine, alright not the weirdest thing we’ve heard. Not even tonight. And I can't think of a reason I'd ever turn down a coffee. It wouldn’t hurt.”

“Bet!” Ellie said excitedly. Digging around in her chest.

“I think it’s in your thigh.'' Danny helpfully supplied a smirk. And sure enough Ellie reached into her thigh and pulled out a canned starbucks double espresso. She lofted it triumphantly with both hands.

“Aren’t we too young for coffee?” Jon asked.

“Speak for yourself.” red robin grabbed the can, giving it a shake.

Robin, “tsk, what happened to being concerned for the consumables they store within their persons?”

“You two didn’t die, and this is fully sealed.” red robin popped the tab taking a drink. His eyebrows raised. “It’s cold.”

“Duh.” Ellie said with a shake of her head.

“No like it was in a fridge,” he clarified.

“We are ghosts, what don’t you understand?” Danny and Ellie said together in exasperation.

“Everything obviously!” he said frustrated. “But thank you. Superboy is right though you probably shouldn’t have caffeine.”

“We’d need enough to fill a 55 gallon barrel of just coffee for us to even feel it and it would barely last an hour.” Danny countered.

“Wow.” Jon said.

“That sucks for you.” Tim said as he stared them down and drank the coffee.

“How accurate is that assessment?” Robin asked as he narrowed his eyes on the kittens.

“Hood consumed 57 grams of caffeine before he felt it," he said. “And Ivy and the doctor lady didn’t want to give him more.”

Tim choked on his drink. “I’m sorry, are you saying hood is running experiments on himself to test how they work on you guys?” he coughed out.

“Ones we don’t know, yeah.” Danny answered.

“That doesn’t seem healthy.” Jon chipped in.

“We will return to that discussion momentarily. Schrodinger, what of your obsessions?” robin asked. But he did give red robin a hand single for the bat kids only, for Alfred to confront someone on poor behavior. Though it was usually used for red robin the most.

“Well I'm a protector spirit, so patrolling with you and stopping people before they hurt others helps a lot. Which is why not patrolling would be bad and not help." Danny said pointedly, staring down Robin. “It can backfire through if I hurt someone bad enough they die. Which is why I don't like fighting humans like that. But uh, my other obsession is bigger and kind of impossible to fulfill in Gotham." Danny tapered off quietly.

“Why? What is it?” red robin asked.

“The stars.” Danny and Ellie both answered in a somber tone.

“Space is the overall one, but uh stargazing was my main way of fulfilling it. And worked great back home. But here…”

“It’s almost impossible, between the light pollution and you know the real pollution. We never see the night sky. We barely see the moon or sun.” red robin finished.

“That’s why you guys are looking up all the time when we take breaks.” Jon said, filling in the understanding of their behavior. “But wait, you guys can fly! Just fly above the smog.”

“Can’t. That uses my powers and puts me well above any shielding or even the ambient ecto that hides us from their sensors decently in the city. Lots of dead in the city. Not above it. It’s like lighting a flare.” Danny said sadly.

“Oh.” Jon said head down, bummed that his suggestion didn’t help.

“Can you explain how fulfilling your obsessions gets converted to energy you can process for use?” Robin asked. That seemed to be the part they were missing.

“Well, ghosts are beings of emotion and ectoplasma. Our obsessions are tied to our creation, and evoke strong emotions when we fulfill them. That emotion we experience triggers the functions of our cores. We can make our own ectoplasma with our cores while we fulfill them. Otherwise we can only filter and process the ambient ectoplasma.'' Danny explained. “And Gotham has higher than average levels, but we can’t process it fast enough. I built machines that do kind of the same thing so we can consume ectoplasma.'' Danny pulled a thermos from his chest. Robin’s eyes widened under his mask at the sight of it. Recognizing it right away. Danny popped the lid off. Inside was a glowing green liquid.

“Why do you have a thermos full of lazarus water?” Tim garbled out.

“It’s not. It’s ectocooler.'' Ellie said once again looking at red robin like he was an idiot.

“That is…”

“It’s not.'' Robin cut Tim off. “You haven’t been around it enough. But that is not Lazarus water. It doesn’t have the same scent.'' Robin grimaced a bit. “But visually it would be hard to tell the difference.”

Red Robin made an abortive move to grab the thermos as Danny took a big drink before passing it to Ellie for her to do the same.

“What does it taste like?” Jon asked curiously.

“Extra citrusy and sugar.” Ellie answered.

“Sunny d battery acid and enough sugar to give southerners sweet tea a run for its money.” Danny said easily with a rolled wrist and hand twirl.

Jon had scrunched his nose at the description while the robins stared him down the kittens.

“Tell me you haven't ate battery acid.”

“We haven't.”

“We ate batteries and drank the acid.” Ellie said proudly. Which started a shoving match the other 3 ignored. “Like a gusher.”

“Why would you ask such a stupid question?”

“I had hope and it died. I need a minute.” Tim said walking around the roof access to the far side by the fire escape and yelled out his frustrations. He ignored the kittens calling him high strung. Plus the crunch of them eating the can he left behind. He caught a flick of movement in a shadow across the alley. He narrowed his eyes at it and gave the signal to hold. Before making his way back to the kids.

“Are You quite done red robin? As our location is no longer secure thanks to your breakdown?”

“It's fine. We are fine.” Tim said, pinching the bridge of his nose. “Just let's.” He flapped a hand at the kids. “solutions. Can you drink enough of that stuff to make up the loss?”

“Yeah, I just can't make enough right now to keep up with our needs. Between emergency stock for injuries, some to refine into ecto shots, which is like ghost first aid. And some to refine for use in my tech builds, plus what we drink daily.” Danny listed out on his fingers. “My machines can't keep up. I mean I'm gonna build more, but they won't produce more all stuffed in the alley. I can't just stick them anywhere they could be found.”

“They need to be spread out?” Jon asked. “How big is it? I got room on my bookcase in metropolis.”

Danny gestured with his hands something around the size of a mid sized suitcase.

“Can you make it smaller?” Red Robin asked.

“I mean they all vary a bit. Depends on if I get parts off a full size fridge or a mini fridge. A freezer works too. And the size of the compressor. Most microwaves are the same size so those components don't change size.” Danny answered, “the size of the compressor tank equals how often it needs to be emptied but I did make one that's at the lab that pumps into propane tanks, because it's in an old commercial fridge. So I can just swap the tanks. But that's just the one.”

Red robin was just staring at him. “Appliances, you make these things from Appliances?”

“From the junkyard or dump usually yeah.” Danny answered.

Tim steepled his hands, took a deep breath and let it out as he pointed them at Schrodinger, “ok, ok, how about, I get some of those things in my base and you come over and build a big one with me and we can brainstorm ways to shrink it.”

“Do we have stupid written on our foreheads or something?” Ellie asked.

“The nest is secure.” Damian said, staring at his brother as he spoke to the kittens. “Only spoiler and Orphan know the location among our group.”

“My youth team also knows. And that includes a ghost named Greta or secret that we rescued from a doa lab. You don't have to agree now. Talk to your family and hood can contact me. But standing offer. We can biolock it whatever you need to feel secure about it, ok?”

“We’ll think about it.” Danny said. Red robin gave a nod.

“Since you have finished the rations we should continue our patrol. It is nearing your curfew.” Robin said standing. He pocketed most of the wrappers, oh good he knew to prevent that behavior. Jon copied him. The kittens pouted but didn't protest. Shoving the thermos back in Danny's body.

“Good luck on patrol.” Red Robin said.

“Not coming with us?” Jon asked.

Tim shook his head no. “I'm gonna grab my bike and head back to my turf. If you need me, call though.” Red Robin watched the four leave before a shadow came up to join him. And he let out a long sigh. “B, that's not really going to help us earn their trust.”

“You are going to let them in your nest?” B asked.

“If that's what it takes to help them, yes.” Tim answered. He pulled out his grapple and left Batman alone on the roof.

Chapter Text

“Kon, what are you doing here?”

“Here to help you baby proof the nest! What the hell is going on with your siblings?”

Tim ran his hands through his hair. “I have no idea. There is a ton of missing information in the notes JLD gave us. Obviously. B is having closed door meetings with the league. I'm pretty sure dick has the most information and Jason swore him to secrecy. But he's doing whatever he thinks is best like usual. And the kids are struggling and hiding it.”

“Of all the family traits to get.” Kon teased with an eye roll. Ignoring Tim's glare.

“I need to go through all the files we had on Greta's case again.” Tim said heading towards his computer.

“How about we start with cleaning your lab area and wherever you think you are going to have him build this machine?” Kon said exasperated.

***************

“Master Bruce?” Alfred asks, coming into Bruce's office to find the man at his computer. A strange change for this time of night since it’s not the cave computer.

“I know it’s late Alfred. But I'm not quite done yet.” Bruce said tiredly rubbing at his face and eyes.

Alfred brought over a cup of chamomile tea to help settle him. “And what is of such importance it can not wait till morning master Bruce?” Alfred took a moment to look at the computer screens, noticing tabs full of high powered telescopes, national geographic subscription sign up, drones with high powered cameras. A few different completion travel maps for different types of landmarks. “I thought you had finished your gift shopping some time ago master Bruce?” Alfred asked with a questioning brow.

“It seems I have not Alfred.” Bruce answered, moving a few things around after looking at specs. A spreadsheet with serial numbers, company names and phone numbers. Most likely to call and push them through faster since it’s so last minute.

“May I ask the intended recipients?” Alfred pressed.

“Duplicat and Schrodinger.” Bruce answered mulling over things before switching to another report, which was a proposal for adding an extension observation tower to Wayne tower that rose above the city smog as a publicity item.

“Ah, are we preparing for your attempts to adopt them into the fold master Bruce?” Alfred teased.

“Can’t really adopt my own children Alfred.” Bruce said, side eyeing his father figure. Who just raised a brow at his oldest charge in return.

“You’ve finally come to terms with that fact hm, master Bruce?” Alfred said softly.

“The evidence is not definitive, but there is enough I feel confident with the conclusion.” Bruce said with a heavy sigh. “I had hoped the evidence would lead to another conclusion, but it seems I've failed even more of my children before I even learned of their existence.” Bruce rubbed his face tiredly, “at least Damian had a positive view of me when I finally learned of him. My youngest are afraid of me Alfred.” Bruce held his head. “They died. My children keep dying. I keep failing them.”

“Sir, you only fail if you give up.” Alfred said gently. “I strongly urge you not to push them though. Keep working with the league to fix things. And allow the children to win their siblings' confidence. They seem to be doing well.”

“I don’t even know their names.” Bruce bit out. “My own children.” He was struggling to contain his composure. His fist on the desk squeezed so tight his knuckles white with staring. Alfred noticed the signs easily with a frown.

“Young master Danny and young miss Ellie.” Alfred decided to settle his son. At Least for the evening. Less he is to be filling plaster later. “I expect you not to abuse the information.” Alfred said sternly as Bruce lifted his head to lock eyes with Alfred. “Reach out to miss Kyle. Wait for your children to reach out to you.” Alfred gave a small hand roll at the wrist to direct to the computer monitor. “All of this could be overwhelming out of nowhere or unexpected.” Bruce let out a heavy sigh. But gave a nod. He picked up his now cold cup of tea and drank it.

Chapter Text

Day two of Hanukkah went much like the first, Jason took over the read after dinner instead of Harley and Selina lit the next candle reciting the prayers with Harley and the kids. Roy and Lian called in to wish them a happy Hanukkah. Harley taught all 3 kids the dreidel game which they tried to play over the video stream but they dropped after they realized they couldn't collect on their candy. Roy and Jason discussed setting up plans with Kory over winter break for the kids to get a trip in her ship. Danny and Ellie wanted to call jazz on Christmas day so they would make sure they could. And things were pretty well till the kids asked about getting Nightwing, Superboy and some of the other bats gifts for the holidays. And hood wasn't over being angry at Nightwing and refused to help them pick a gift. But Selina offered to help the kids shop online for whoever they wanted. Danny had made gifts for several of them, but without Jason's help they didn't know what to get Nightwing which left them brainstorming till the kids started getting ready to go out.

“Could have helped the kids Jason.” Pam scolded. Selina and Harley were going to be heading out to do a job for Oswald.

“Dick deserves to be left out after that bullshit.”

“He was concerned. And that has nothing to do with helping the kids. Have fun on patrol thinking about that” she smirked into her tea as Jason left grumbling to himself. He had continued to decline calls from Dick all night.

Chapter Text

“Hey Signal.” Ellie said as the little group entered into the low light warehouse, “isn't it past your bedtime?”

Robin didn't cover his smirk, nor Schrodinger his laughter which grew at Jon's words, “Batman gives you a bedtime?”

“Laugh it up half pints.” Signal teased back. “And I plan to go to bed as soon as we are done with this debrief.”

“Oldman, oldman.” The kittens chanted but came up to signal to sit cross legged in front of him. Jon hovered close but wasn't able to bring his legs up like that. Though he has tried since seeing them do it. Robin stood at attention before him also.

“Silence so he may speak, please try to limit interruptions. We can ask questions at the end. Raise your hands where you have a question and I will make note incase your memory lapses.” Robin stated clearly. Signal pulled his lips in a thin line looking at Robin. “We are attempting to find a methodology that works for their limited attention spans.”

“Right.” But Signal did take note they did stop chanting and were now all just staring at him. “I got a break in the case. Looks like the parts are typical of Toyman's work. And…” signal was thrown off as the kittens started glowing and he had to cover his eyes. He did catch Robin giving the hand sign for hold.

“Contain yourselves, do not blind him.” Robin addressed them without moving.

“Naw, I can give a report like this. We're good.” He upped his shades on his helmet and kept his hand up. “Do they know who Toyman is?" Duke asked.

“He does not make playthings for children, he makes weapons disguised as toys.” Robin gave the information. Because it was obvious they did not.

“They are very dangerous. My dad has fought him several times.” Jon added.

That just seemed to make the kids vibrate in place if the aborted strange sounds coming out of them were anything to go by.

“After this case for the new year we are going to take some time for you two to learn meditation practices.” Robin said with a frown.

The kittens turned in time towards him and booed. Ending in a raspberry. Signal snorted. “OK let's, let's just continue. I want some sleep tonight. He's not normally in Gotham. We think he's working with someone here on a joint scheme. And with it being Christmas time.” He ignored the annoyed huff from Schrodinger. “It's probably something big. The tag you guys put on that shipment helped me with this bust today. Cops and hazmat came through for the crime scene…” both kittens raised their hands. “Security, hazmat got the radioactive material secured here, but the disposal unit isn't going to be here for a few days. So there are cops guarding the warehouse. I've gone over it for evidence already, but we can’t let Toyman or anyone else get their hands on the radioactive material. Orphan and spoiler have a bust tonight. So it was suggested you guys could keep an eye on things here.”

“Speak.” Robin said when Signal finished.

“If we are just watching the radioactive parts so they don't fall into the wrong hands wouldn't it be easier to just get rid of it?” Danny asked

“Yes, but the transport won't be here for a few days. We can’t safely move it through the city.” Signal explained.

“Not transport, just get rid of it.” Ellie said

Before Signal could ask her to clarify, Jon cut in. “Can you eat it?” and Signal froze, mouth open. Like he had to be hearing things.

Duplicat shrugged. “Probably? It’s fun to try something new.”

“We’ve ate other radioactive substances.” Schrodinger added.

“Are there side effects of eating radioactive materials?” robin asked like he was actually contemplating saying yes.

“Whoa, whoa,” Signal held up his hands in a stop motion squinty now that he wasn’t blocking his eyes. But it also wasn’t as bright now that the kids seemed to be thinking. “We are not actually thinking about that being a viable solution?”

“Why not?” Ellie pouted, arms crossed.

“I mean Why isn’t it a viable option? It can’t be stolen if it no longer exists?" Danny asked, confused.

“We are unable to currently assess the viability of the option without data of some sort addressing the pros and cons of the action. You said yourself you have not consumed this material before." Robin stated matter of factly.

“Uranium powered batteries basically.” Signal said when robin looked to him.

“Yeah never had that before.”

“A side effect of concern would be that you emit radiation even if it doesn’t affect you, while you are digesting it.” Robin admitted.

“I don’t know, we’ve never checked that. I mean we emit radiation as is. It’s just mostly benign in human form, and not to higher than what someone would be exposed to naturally. Gothamites experience it higher than average as is. So like are more used to it. It could…” Danny rubbed his chin in thought.

“What if we eat it with the lead box still around it. It’s stopping leakage, so it would stop it from leaking out if our bodies don’t” Ellie added.

“I don’t see why it wouldn’t it stops my x-ray vision.” Jon tapped his own chin.

Signal hit his com. “Help, I need an adult.”

“The coms are not for…” Batman started to scold.

“The kids are holding a debate on if they should let the kittens eat radioactive material. Even if they come to the conclusion of no, I don't feel confident leaving them alone with it at this point.” Signal cut off the scold. There was silence followed by a heavy sigh from batman. It sounded like his tired dad sigh.

“Hello, red robin can’t come to the phone right now, this is Superboy can i take a message?”

“RR having another breakdown?” Steph asked.

“Signal is being childish, father we are perfectly capable of …”

“If anyone eats any radioactive material, or there is even a spec missing without obvious signs of a heist that oracle can verify, I'm hauling all of you, including Duplicat and Schrodinger to the justice league headquarters for medical examinations. The sirens and hood will not stop me. I will be checking the report hazmat filed now! And compare it to both the transport teams and the disposal companies logs, is that understood? Oracle send the report to my wrist computer now.” batman said in his most fed up bat dad voice. It even had Signal standing a bit more rigid.

“He can’t do that… can he?" Schrodinger asked.

“I think he can little man. He’s Batman.” signal said. And watched Schrodinger shrink up a bit Duplicat pout angrily.

“Father you are being…”

“It is not up for debate Robin!” that had the kittens flinching and shrinking in close to each other. Robin just glowered at the reprimand. Jon patted him on the back in consol. “Spoiler, orphan focus on your bust. Superboy if you are going to monitor coms for red robin while he’s working on his files, do so professionally. Robin, your team's job is to monitor the warehouse until orphan and spoiler can relieve you. You are a security detail. I expect you to follow our current protocols on what that details and not to deviate. Signal get back to the cave and rest. Has Nightwing checked in yet oracle?" Robin hit his com angrily, cutting it off.

Signal listened to oracle give a heads up that Nightwing was going to be joining patrol late. Before hitting his.

“Hey, how about a peace offering.” He opened a few compartments on his suit and pulled out a couple of Alfred's cookies. “I got 4 cookies I swiped from the cooling rack this morning.” he held them out to the kittens first. Their glow was much duller now. “I wasn’t trying to upset you, but I… you just can’t eat weird things. That’s not safe.”

Ellie snatched one first. “Tattletale.” she said angrily sticking her tongue out before flying off into the rafters. Danny took another with a strained smile before disappearing from most view though Duke could track the soft glowing outline as it followed his little sister up.

“Thanks.” Jon said, taking one for himself and joining the other two.

Leaving signal with Damian. Who glowered at him before snatching the last one. “I will not be bought Signal. I had it under control. It is good practice for them to process out a solution or plan of action.”

“Temptation is all I'm saying. Even if you got them to the correct conclusion, who says curiosity and the cat you know how that goes.”

“Leave us to our chore Signal.” Robin removed his grapple and joined his friends.

Once signal was out of the warehouse he checked on the cops who were tasked with the same job as the kids. Before heading back to the cave. He hit the com linked with red robin. “Well you can tell RR I think I'm now at the bottom ranking with the kittens.”

“ Red is thankful for your interference. And is currently trying to store or find ways to store even more things properly in the nest. I suggested holo projectors to camouflage things, and then was informed that probably won’t work with their powers. So we are stuck with the old fashion way.”

Chapter Text

“Schrodinger, are you alright?” Jon asked, concerned as the kids watched the entrances to the warehouse from the inside. The ghost boy had frozen and had his head cocked seemingly looking through the building full of crates walls. “Your breathing is slower.”

“sis do you feel that?” Danny said instead of reply.

Ellie seemed to squint in the same area. “Maybe. it’s faint though. Like it’s small or far away.”

“It can’t be far, we wouldn't feel it. It’s Like damaged tech, "Danny said. Ellie froze really feeling for it to try and get details.

“Oracle.” Robin hit his coms.

“I was just getting ready to call you, my camera’s just went a bit fuzzy, can the kitties rein it in a bit again?”

“Ask her if she sees any guys in white suits.” Ellie got to her feet but didn’t float.

“It’s leaking. That’s not good.” Danny said. “It could explode, the guys in white know the dangers of damaged ecto-tech.” he was on his feet too.

“Her camera’s are malfunctioning.” Robin stated.

“It’s not us. Someone is coming up from that way with a piece of leaking ecto-tech. It’s what’s interfering.'' Danny clarified. Turning to Jon. Who set his x-ray vision on the wall. “I don’t see any guys in white suits, but I saw a couple of thuggish looking guys coming down Marse street according to the sign. Oh…'' Jon said before blinking. “Robin, you might want to let oracle know the cops in the car on the corner just left.”

“Tsk, oracle the commissioner is failing to weed out weaker men among his force.” Robin said bitterly. “What kind of tech is this? How bad would an explosion be?'' Robin asked the kittens.

“Radioactive explosion. Death radiation. Depending on the size or what triggers it…"Danny started.

“It’s a gun.'' Elie said assuredly. “Or at least a weapon. It’s not a sensor or a shield. It’s angry and pain.”

“Schrodinger, Duplicat?” Jon asked at the quietness of his friends' bodies at her words.

“I can’t run facial recognition, the camera’s are useless. I’m sending back up.” oracle said.

“Can she evac?” Schrodinger asked. “A city block from here needs evaced now.”

Robin noted both kittens were distracted and off kilter. “Superboy start giving descriptions to oracle of the men.” Superboy started doing so.

“It’s Fenton tech.'' Ellie said getting closer to the beam they were on. “To loud to be fruitloop's.” But she gave a look of concern to Danny. Robin noted his tightening fist.

“Hood is on his way. Why would the GIW hand out broken tech to thugs?”

“Maybe they got mugged? Or their bodies got looted?" Ellie said a bit ghoulishly.

“How many of the weapons can you sense? What can they do?” Robin asked.

“It’s a really heated and volatile version of our own ecto blasts. It is one of the few things that hurt ghosts. We can sense this one because it’s broken. It’s leaking so the shielding isn’t containing the radiation.”

“So they could have more? If they are not broken?" Robin worked out. “And it is for use on ghosts only? How do they know of our presence here? The cops didn’t know which bats were partaking in the watch.”

“Oh yeah…” Ellie said.

“It’s Fenton tech, so it can hurt people and most anything else. If we can eat it. A hit from that gun can dissolve it." Danny said. “Duplicat, you can’t, you can’t take a hit like that in human form. It’s going to be more powerful cause it’s not fully directed.”

“I’m not changing. We’ll have those roaches on us so fast. If they are in the area.”

“I don’t have enough ectoshots on me! And I know you used yours today and we didn’t get a restock. You’ll destabilize. Or worse. Change, Robin, we are going to lose the coms.”

“You take a hit, you use yours on yourself jerkface.”

“Wait.” Robin said, holding up a hand. “You glow in your other form. Wait to change. We can maybe get the drop on them and discover who they are. But both of you should change if it will offer more protection.”

“I don’t know what it will do to a kryptonian. So you two can’t get hit either.” Danny whispered. There was noise at the back doors of the warehouse.

“The gas mask was a good giveaway.” Oracle's voice came in. “it’s Walrus. These are black masks men. Hood’s on my lines. Batman, hood and Nightwing are on their way. Huntress and batwoman are going to be a little out from them.”

“I can come ahead.” Superboy 2 came in. “with red robin in tow or he can follow on the bike?”

“Superboy you and red robin start evac of the area. Incase of explosion. We can hold them off till more reinforcements come in.” Robin whispered. “Kittens, you are on defense. Guard the lead lined crate. Superboy and I will take offense.”

“I built that mask.” Schrodinger said, dropping down invisible. “We can make shields that can take the blasts, but it’s gonna be rough in human form.”

“Good, then maybe I can blow it.” Ellie followed his lead.

“No heat vision till we get the broken gun. Heat, electricity or a drop and it can blow." Schrodinger said.

Robin pulled a batterrang and began maneuvering into position. He typed the warning into the coms that they were going to lose them. Once they had initiated the attack robin was going to have them change.

The door to the warehouse opened and let in some outside lighting. 5 men came in. Robin was quick to clock the crowbars and pistols. And the 3 weird weapons. Looking like sci-fi laser weapons. All giving off a soft glow. One seemed to almost pulse. If robin had to gander it was the broken one. Walrus took up the back of the group. Robin whispered under his breath which goon had the suspected weapon.

“Find the goods and let’s go. See anything shoot first." Walrus said sending his men to search while he stayed by the door. He had one of the new weapons.

Robin let 2 baterrangs fly before he dropped with his sword. Superboy hit one of the goons into a crate while robin was quick to disarm the other in the front. The kittens took the sound of scuffle as their signal. As the bright flash behind him and Superboy lit the goons in front of them. He and Jon dodged shots from the new weapons. Behind some of the crates. Robin was a bit shocked to see the green hue he recognized from his childhood start to melt the wooden and plastic crates.

Jon tried to fly out to a new spot and would have been hit if not for a green shield much like the lantern corps coming up to take the hit. It dissolved after the hit.

“I’d set those guns down before you kill yourselves if you have a halfa brain!” Schrodinger yelled out, floating over top of the crates. The now all white look with soft glow catching the goons attention. Giving Robin an opening he went after the next one. Schrodinger’s shields popping up to take the hits from the strange new guns.

“Nice to see you again kid. Wasn’t expecting you. Thought you didn’t like the bat?” Walrus' modulated voice came out.

“Feelings not mutual asshole!'' Schrodinger threw another shield up, sending it towards walrus like a battering ram. The man didn’t seem phased, wasting no time shooting it.

Robin heard the sound of another door slamming open. “Tsk, Superboy cover Duplicat!”

“On it!” Superboy took off towards where Schrodinger hovered.

“Sink it!” Schrodinger gave his own order to his sibling. He started raising some of the crates and re-stacking them between the goons and robin to take the hits. A few shots of a regular gun sail past to go through Schrodinger.

Robin made sure to focus on the goons Schrodinger was funneling his way one at a time. With the tactic. That was till Duplicat’s pained yell came through the air. The temp in the warehouse dropped suddenly as a huge wall of ice burst forth in front of him. “Schrodinger! Regroup with the others!” He took note of the ice melting under the blasts from the new ecto weapons. Robin weaved around a few crates to back track. He needed to get the compromised weapon.

***********************************

Duplicat had been on top of the crate phasing it into the floor and had gotten it half way before a blast from one of the ecto-guns caught her in the arm. Luckily it was not a broken gun. A perfect semi circle missing from her upper arm. At Least it wasn’t a chest or head shot. But she still had yelled out in pain. The protective wall of ice spiked out from the nearby crates towards the second compromised entrance.

“Duplicat!” Jon said barely buzzing over top of the ice seeing her holding her green blood dripping arm had him frozen in shock. “Kon!” Jon yelled out before rushing to his friend.

“Don’t touch any of my blood!” Duplicat scolded as he came up a few ricocheting bullets bouncing off the walls. She grimaced. “It, it dissolves fabric. It’s probably not healthy for you.”

“You need to stop the bleeding.” Jon said frustrated but did not know what to do.

“It’ll eat through fabric. I just need a minute.” she bit out squeezing her arm. She thought really hard before dividing off her arm to Jon's horrified squawk. And then shoved the severed limb into her chest absorbing the limb.

“Good idea!” Danny said coming behind her. “How you doing?”

“Not fully dead yet!” her eyes glowing more green she got back on the crate and started to phase it again. “I got this. Beat their asses!”

“With pleasure!” with that Danny shoved the melting wall of ice out expanding it with more spikes to take hits.

Jon stared a bit in awe. Before he caught a few goons coming around the side and shoved the tower of crates towards them. Ellie threw up a ghost shield to catch a blast aimed at Jon's back. “We are sitting ducks here. I vote we grab the boys and box and head into the sewers.” Ellie panted. The exterior wall closest to them busts open. Danny throwing up another shield to catch debris as he flew to it with fist raised.

“Kon!”

“Whoa! On your team kid!'' Danny went though the super before grabbing his arm and tossing him towards the ground as the blast was aimed at them went past. “You’re missing an arm.” Kon gaped as Duplicat threw a crate up into another blast. As he righted himself.

“It’ll grow back. Keep up!”

“We can’t let them keep these guns. But I don't want you to take another hit! You and superboy go with the box. Where’s robin?”

“I got robin!” Kon said following the sound of the boy’s sword hitting metal. As he was trying to sneak his way into the fight he heard the sound of a motorcycle revving up before, the sight of red hood, well blue hood in a white suit, came through a wall on said bike firing off his guns at the goon fighting robin a retreating walrus. Only green blasts instead of bullets came out.

“You fool!” Robin yelled. Running after a weapon skidding across the floor. Kon flew past and scooped up the weapon and then Robin.

“Regrouping.” Kon shouted. Heading back towards the others.

“Do not drop or jostle that weapon Superboy!” Robin scolded, righting himself in the older supers arm hold. “It can explode.”

“Should I fly up and crush it?” Kon asked.

“I would not unless Schrodinger suggested it. We don’t know if it can injure a kryptonian.” Kon weaved his way between the crates to block shots.

“Considering Duplicat is missing an arm I'm not wanting to test it either.”

“She is what?” Robin asked in shock..

“She said it would grow back.”

“That is mildly reassuring.”

Kon seized in motion as a giant green snarling dog appeared out of nowhere in front of them. “What the hell is that?”

“Cujo I presume.”

“Is Cujo friend or foe?” Kon asked, backing up as it growled at them.

“Cujo, Schrodinger is in need of assistance. Return to your master.” Damian tried.

“Cujo grab the kids!” Red hood’s voice boomed from behind them. The massive creature barked its reply before grabbing a hold of robin's cape and phasing him out of Kon's grip before turning and bounding the direction. Kon pursued.

“That's fucking Cujo!” Huntress's voice bellowed through the warehouse.

“What kind of laser weapons are these?” Kon heard Batwoman ask. Probably batman.

Kon watched the dog unceremoniously drop Damian to the ground behind a crate as it phased through the ground, probably to retrieve Jon and Duplicat. Robin wasted no time getting to his feet and pulling Schrodinger down Below the crates and red robin landed on a goon aiming for the kid. Whose back was smoking and soaked with green blood. And his legs were replaced with a wispy tail. “You are injured.”

“I'll deal with it later.” his head snapped to Kon. “You got the busted gun.” He held his hands out for it. Robin gave him a subtle sign and Kon carefully placed it in his hands.

“Can you disarm it?” Robin asked. Kon noticed the shooting tapering off. Good. Kon took in the delicate way Schrodinger was cradling the gun. It reminded him of pa when he took the stillborn barn kitten away before Jon could see.

“No.” Schrodinger sounded so dejected and had tears welling. “I can't absorb it. It's too much pain. It's been feeding on the pain and anger of Gotham like a horrible loop. I don't have enough of my own to filter it fast enough. It'd be bad if I tried.”

“Can we take it somewhere to safely detonate it?” Kon asked.

“I don't have a mobile ghost shield. I… I need to get above the city. I can shield myself from the blast I think. It will disperse it, but there are going to be a lot of angry and restless ghosts when they start absorbing the ectoplasma.”

“You think?” Robin asked grabbing Schrodinger's arm.

“Let me take it.” Red hood landed next to their group, startling Kon.

Schrodinger pulled the gun closer. “You can't fly well enough yet, and you can't hold a shield after it takes an initial hit. So no.”

Schrodinger pulled two EpiPen looking things from his bleeding chest handing them to robin. “Stab my sister with these before she notices.” He pulled out of Robin's hold.

“Let me fly you up. Is it an energy thing? Can you hold the shield if you conserve it?” Kon asked.

“Uh yeah that might help.” Danny blinked at him. Kon floated towards him and Schrodinger put a hand on his shoulder. “I can phase us through the ceiling.”

“Got it.” And Kon took off, he felt a chill as they passed through the ceiling that went away once in the open again. But increased his speed considerably taking no time clearing the smog and skyscrapers.

“Here's good.” He heard Schrodinger say slowing them to a stop. He watched as the kid pulled the cradled weapon away from his body, head bowed over it. Catching a barely whispered apology before Schrodinger chucked the gun into the sky raising his fist and a green blast similar to what the guns fired leaving the raised hand. Followed by a dome of greenish blue sparkling ice in a dime shape floating over them. Kon heard the ting of metal and other materials hitting the barrier. The two floated there till the sound stopped. Then the dome disappeared. Kon moved his eyes to find Schrodinger with tears dripping down his face, fists clenched tight. Just staring up at the sky. As the moon reflected off his eyes and tears.

Kon drifted towards the kid and carefully scooped him up. Tucking his head over his shoulder. “Easy kid. Just watch the stars. I'm gonna get us back.” Kon found it a little awkward to hold him without legs till he wrapped his tail around his waist. He wanted to linger for the kid but he was feeling himself tear up and get emotional, plus from the sounds of things back at the warehouse things were gonna get dicey.

“Kon, are you ok?” Red Robin asked as the two of them dropped back into the building.

“Uh, yeah, I'm uh just…”

“It's Schrodinger,” Nightwing said, coming up to him arms extended. “He's having some big feelings and you get to share them while touching.”

“Oh,” Kon let Nightwing pick up his little brother who then clinged to him.

“You can't come with us so hand him over.” Hood said stealing him from Nightwing easily with intangibility. “Need someone to take my bike.”

“I got it.” Red Robin said. Hood tossed him the keys.

“One moment, hood.” Robin said, walking up to him and Schrodinger before he stabbed his friend in the arm with two of those glowing EpiPens.

“Hey I told you to use those on Duplicat.” Schrodinger yelled a bit muffled.

“He did asshole. And you needed it more!”

“Those are the ones I brought.” Hood said. “We gotta get out of here though. The guys in white are Here Batman and Batwoman are holding them off with big blue and the commissioner, but we need to split. And we need to pull a risky maneuver. Where can we go in the gz and let us simmer for a few minutes without getting caught?”

“That is risky.” Schrodinger mumbled.

“Yeah, but you guys are in bad shape, you need a soak. Tell cujo where to go." Hood stood up holding Schrodinger in one arm and grabbed cujo’s collar next to where Ellie was sitting on top of the massive dog's back.

“Probably the best bet is the wastelands.” Danny sniffled. Might run into skulker.”

“That's OK. We can beat his ass for family bonding.” Ellie said. “We need a win. Let's go cujo to the wastelands!”

The rest of their group back up as the dog barked before seemingly digging open a portal into the ground and their friends being dragged through. The portal closed behind them.

“I didn't get to pet their dog.” Damian said a bit forlorn.

“Maybe next time.” Jon said.

Kon looked at the banged up crate of nuclear components but the lead case seemed to be intact.”should we go help them with those government guys?”

“If by help you mean shooting all of them, sure.” Huntress said. Ignoring Kon's shocked face as he backed up a bit.

“Yeah if I recognize any of those agents, I'll probably upset B when I do worse than I did to the Joker.” Nightwing said darkly. “You doing better Kon, less emotional?”

“OH yeah,” Kon wiped the dried tear stains from his face. “Uh did we get the rest of the weapons?”

“5 not including what you guys did with the one. “ Red robin answered, but was looking at nightwing and huntress. “You guys have the report on what they did to him don't you? B has it on lock down so we can’t access it.

“B has a report. Siren’s have videos. Batman got spared that.” Huntress said.

“And what happened to him, probably happened to someone else to make that gun. And it's made him struggle more.” Nightwing said.

“What do you mean?” Jon asked, a bit confused.

Superboy 2, red robin and robin got very quiet as they stared at the oldest among them. “Those weapons are made from parts of people like Schrodinger and Duplicat and hood. And the emotions that person was feeling while that was happening were still a part of it. And just like how Superboy 2 was feeling Schrodinger's emotions, Schrodinger could feel those.”

Robin stared mouth tight at nightwing his grip on the hilt of his sword, crushing. “These monsters harvest people to make weapons? How long has this been happening? Why…”

“All those questions baby bat is why they are so mad at the justice league.

Kon was settled heavy on his feet. “That… he was mourning… oh my Rao, that poor kid, we just had him blow up a person…” Kon seemed horrified at the prospect.

“More like he blew up an arm, or a leg or a torso, that had memory imprints it fed into those around it.” Huntress clarified.

“That's not better.” red robin said angrily.

“If that is true, then seeing the damage they can take and seem to walk it off, is it possible the source of that weapon is alive somewhere continuing to be used for such tasks?” Robin asked coldly. His blade rattled in his sheath.

“Yeah it is.” Nightwing said. And had to rush forward to grab Robin as he turned on his heel and started stalking towards the doors where the others were holding back the villains. “Easy there baby bat.”

Robin threw off his brother's hand harshly. “Will we continue to stand by and allow them to continue such heinous acts?!”

“No we aren't. But right now you can not go out there like this. And Schrodinger is very concerned they will come after you by mistake, so you aren't going to interact with them.”

“But we need more information, are we running tails?” Superboy suggested his fists clenched, he was ready to take action too.

“Spoiler and Orphan are dropping bugs and tags in their vans as we speak.” Oracle came through their coms now that they were back online. “This is the kind of break we needed since hood isn’t sharing his information with everyone.”

“Huntress and I are staying behind to do the hand off. The rest of you can head out. Robin agent a is waiting at the cave for you. Superboy, why don't you head home with your dad once he's done ok. You can hang with us till he comes and gets you.” Nightwing said putting a hand on the smallest supers shoulder.

“I'm taking hood’s bike, but me and kon are going to steal the weapons from evidence so these guys can't get them nor can they get back on the streets.” Red Robin informed them before taking off to do just that.

Chapter Text

“Damn, who is this hot dude knocking on the door?” A blue haired pale teen girl asked, opening the door as Dick held his hand just above it at the ready. He hadn’t even gotten to knock. She leaned against the frame. Looking him up and down.

“Uh hello?” Dick said a bit awkwardly.

“Ember quit eye fucking my brother. He's too old for you.”

The girl threw her head to the side and scoffed. “I've been dead longer than he's been alive!” She shouted over her shoulder.

“I can feel his discomfort so can you, which I'd punch him if he wasn't, you jail baiting ass. You kicked it at 16. Now let him pass and keep your hands to yourself.”

“OH my god! You're a bigger stick in the mud than baby pop and cover baby.” She even stomped her foot with her arms crossed like a moody teenager. But she did move out of the way to let him in. Inside he found hood in the kitchen covered in flour. And a kitchen table full of teens watching him mix things. The blue haired girl took a seat at the end putting her feet up on the table and leaning back in her chair.

“Uh hey there jaybird? You adopt a horde of teens?” Dick said with a bit of a strained smile and nervous chuckle. It became more of a genuine laugh when Jason just glared at him while stopping his stirring.

“Keep it up dickhead, and you aren't getting invited to stay for hanukkah tonight.” He pointed his spoon at him before going back to his task.

The other kids turned to look at him. There was a green haired girl looking a little bit older. But still deathly pale, “damn he is cute.”

“Kitty, your boyfriend just left here for a joyride.” hood Said exasperated.

“Hey, you're dick.” Danny said, pointing at him.

“Yep, good to see you again danny.”

“When the hell did you meet dick out of costume?” Hood asked with a scolding.

“Costume?” Ellie asked.

“I met him when that Tim guy took me out of school for lunch. And brought me home when Waylon was babysitting. He said he was Tim's brother. But you said he was your brother.” Danny was staring at him with narrowed suspicious eyes.

“Tim did fucking what?! How? When?” Hood started to smoke.

“Damn you are getting him fired up! We gonna see this new halfa throw down?” Ember antagonized.

“Wait! Dickwing! Nightwing, that's Nightwing Danny!” Ellie said excitedly, turning more fully in her seat to wave a little stub of an arm at him. Which Dicks eyes locked onto.

“I'll fill you in Jay, calm down.” Dick said, trying to keep it light in tone but his eyes were stuck on Ellie's arm.

“Look, it's like a 3rd grown back already.” Ellie said excitedly waving the stump.

“That's great kiddo!” Dick tried to keep the cheer up in his voice. Dick tried to move his attention elsewhere but then they caught on the nubs kicking out from Danny's seat, a few inches below his knees.

“Ellie's idea worked great, see. I used my ectoplasma to heal all the bodyshots and just replaced it with what would be in my legs so it didn't take as long. And since I can float it's not a big hindrance.” Danny pointed out.

“Except when you forget and faceplant getting out of bed!” Kitty teased.

“It was a brand new thing!” Danny defended.

“Man, you should feed him to Spectra. He keeps growing more depresso the more you all talk. She doesn't even need to speak.” Ember laughed.

“But the bitch would.” Danny and Ellie both said bitterly.

“Jesus fuck! Kids do not read my brother like this, he cannot handle his mask not holding up. Dick sit down, get out of your head for 5 minutes and just try and be in the moment. We are all dead and relatively in good spirits.”

“Good spirits.” All the kids said together ominously. Dick snorted at the 4 mischievous grins around the table and Jason staring at the ceiling counting to ten under his breath.

“Please do not ruin the day being hung up on shit you can't change and move on like the rest of us.”

Which set all four teens into laughing fits.

“I hate all of you.” Jason made a point to point his spoon at each of the teens.

“Is that anyway to talk to your new children jason? How do you think that makes them feel?” Dick teased, relaxing a little bit from their easy attitudes. “So where did you guys come from anyway?”

“Jason forgot Cujo isn't that well trained.” Danny said, turning back in his seat when Dick took the empty one next to him.

“We ended up in Embers haunt during their hangout session.” Ellie said happily.

“Ended up? You and your dog wrecked my living room!” Ember slammed her hand on the table.

“It fixed itself right after. We got out of the debris.

“You guys didn't let the council know the missing prince was there?”

“Ew, what the hell man, are you a cop or something? We aren't selling out our fraid. He doesn't want to go home, we aren't turning him in.”

“He was.” Jason said nonchalantly.

The group of kids chorus, ew, around him. “I came to check in on all of you and make sure you are OK and I feel so attacked right now.” he lifted up the bag he was carrying and put it on the table. “Maybe I won't give you these gifts after all.”

“You brought us gifts?” Ellie asked standing in her chair to look over it.

“If I'd know there would be more of you I could have made sure to have something for everyone.”

“Maybe call ahead next time. Hope you don’t mind giving up your i.d. " Jason hummed.

“What do you mean?”

“Hey kids! We got the goods!” Waylon shouted, walking in with grundy, each carrying two crates of different fruit.

“Oh no.”

Grundy made a noise staring down Dick who smiled and waved.

“This is my brother. He’s here to see the kids.”

Waylon and Grundy set the crates down in front of the kids. Waylon smacked kitty’s hand as she lifted out a pear. “Wash it first. We lose one?”

“It’s not like I'm gonna die from germs.” Kitty complained.

“Johnny and kitty got into a fight so he went out for a joyride.”

“Nice to meet ya. Alright kiddos you want donuts start washing." Waylon instructed.

“Let’s dump them in the bathtub!” Ember said, grabbing a box.

“Scrub brushes! Don’t use the one in the bathroom.” Jason instructed. Grundy grabbed them from the sink and dropped them into one of the crates over top of them.

“Wait! Dick said he had gifts for us!” Ellie said .

“It will be there after. Go wash! Don’t destroy the bathroom.” Jason said. “Shoo.”

“I’d listen to the man. Sooner it’s done sooner you get your gifts.” Dick said, waving the bag.

The four teens got up and grabbed the crates of apples, pears, strawberries and pineapples floating off to the bathroom to clean them up.

“You have an undead child army, you keep this up.” Waylon teased

“Feeding them is going to be a nightmare.” my arms are getting tired.

Grundy grumbled at him.

“Not my fault I don't understand how to do what the kids did.”

“You injured jay?” dick asked with concern.

“I’m not missing parts dick.” Jason said tiredly. “Bruised ribs. I’m fine.”

“Big brother Dick is a name not an insult huh?” Waylon laughed.

“Yeah, hi.” Dick waved.

“Hanukkah presents?” Waylon pointed to the bag.

“No, um get well soon presents.” Dick answered.

“Oh… ooooooooohhhhhh.” Waylon shoved Jason. “Some warning would be nice!”

Jason laughed. “He didn’t warn me alright.”

“Move, I'll take over. I can stir. Start the next batch.” Waylon said. “Rest of you bats showing up? You look familiar though…”

“Apparently he dropped off Danny with my other brother Tim when you were babysitting. A bit ago.”

“Tim… Tim Wayne… oh shit you’re a Wayne?” Waylon asked, stirring the bowl.

“Nope, died, came back, got a new i.d.”

“He is. Even if he denies it.” dick said.

“Damn, talk about a rebellious phase.” Waylon laughed. “And I thought Roy was bad. You rich kids need better hobbies.”

“Thank you for your worldly advice croc.”

“I was kind of expecting the kids and the sirens and jay when I came.”

“Holiday’s usually involve the whole family. Dick.”

“And yet I don't expect to see you at the mansion any time soon.”

“Maybe the family needs to work on their behavior.”

“No fighting please. Ladies should be back soon. They went to talk to cobblepot. And see if he can take an inventory. He ain’t gonna be happy if the missing weapons are from his end.'' Waylon said. “He’s been storing the weapons from the dead agent's people to bring in for bounties.”

“He’s cool Waylon, not that cool. My brother doesn’t need to know that.” Jason said. “Did we have a plan for frying these? I’m not freezing my balls off outside.”

“Outside and the kids said you shouldn’t be cold.”

“Tell my body that.”

“Is it always like this around here?” Dick asked.

Grundy grumbled out laughing, nodding his head as he passed dick and patted him on the back before taking up his seat on the couch and turning on the tv.

“The 3 new ones are worse. And I didn't think that was possible.”

“Is there a reason you brought the teen ghosts with you from the zone?” dick asked. “I feel like this is a risk.”

“It is. But the kids need more ecto to heal. Machines can’t make enough quick enough and aren’t making enough themselves right now. Those three have easier obsessions to fulfill and can make enough to share. So they are hanging out till they are better, they said.”

“If you think they are gonna leave for an extended period of time i’ve got a bridge to atlantis to sell ya.” croc laughed. “These kids latch onto you like one of ivy’s plants.”

“Didn’t realize you were such a good big brother jaybird.” Dick barely caught the bowl chucked at his head.

“I’m a good uncle dickhead.” Jason said casually while side eyeing the direction the kids headed to the bathroom. He grabbed Waylon's mouth too as the guy stared wide eyed. Grundy made a noise. And Jay signed him good. Kids are distracted. Then he aggressively signed to dick. They can hear us, you dumbass.

Dick signed out an apology, while getting the shock of watching Waylon putting down his batter, and finger spelling out seriously? Dick responded with a yes in sign.

“If you are gonna sit there, trouble maker, you are gonna to put yourself to use.” Waylon scolded.

“No! My brother doesn’t touch shit if we want it edible.” Jason yelled.

“I can do dishes!” Dick offered.

“This batch is ready. Where are we setting it to rise?” waylon asked.

“Laundry room. Hey Grundy!'' Grundy got up and came and collected the large bowl he put a towel over the top of it from a small stack to the side and took it away.

“How about you check on the kids and make sure the fruit isn’t a mash in the tub.” Jason suggested. “I’m apparently going out and setting up the damn fryer.”

***********************************************

Dick watched in a mix of awe and concern as the kids stirred a pot of apple mash that was cooking over the ember’s hair with their powers at the dining room table. The kids were stirring all kinds of things and by hand. Chopping and peeling things with like telekinesis.

Selina Harley and Ivy had made it back, and though Selina didn’t seem all that pleased to see him, she didn’t kick him out. Harley seemed excited he was doing the dishes though she came over and helped dry and put away after him. Jason and Grundy were outside frying donuts.

Selina was in the kitchen making a light but huge portion of tuna salad for lunch in a cleaned rubbermaid tote. and ivy was making something called israeli salad for dinner later and prepping a casserole for dinner.

Like everyone was prepping and cooking for 3 meals. Dick had never seen anything like it. “Do you guys make this much food all the time?”

“Eh, pretty much when we have everyone ya know. But doing a bit more for the holiday right. We are going to hand out some of the sufganiyot to the street kids. Give’em some goodies." Harley answered. “Don’t know if you noticed but 5 of us kinda godda eat like suma wrestlers. “

“Ugh I hope johnny and shadow don’t come back till we are done. Or I will be so mad.” kitty whined moving a bowl of homemade jam to the fridge to cool.

“Have babypop threaten to soup him and shadow if they misbehave.” ember said.

“Can’t we just preventively soup them?” Ellie chimed in. “Am I cutting mushrooms now aunt ivy?”

“Sure kiddo. Thank you.” Ellie didn’t even get up pulling the items from the fridge as kitty held the door open she shut it and followed back to the table.

“That’s not fair, I'm not doing that.” Danny said. He was eyeing the bag dick had brought.

“I will. And I won't feel guilty either.” kitty said coming back to the table. “All this work. I want to try this food. It’s been forever since I ate food. Amity being a dead free zone now. ugh. “

“Johnny brought some ghost weed though. We can really enjoy the holidays.” Ember said. Dick lost his grip on a pot dropping it with a clang.

“Cop!” the 4 kids shouted. Harley broke out into ruckus laughter. Selina and ivy joining a bit more subdued.

“Roof to smoke kids. Ellie danny half a joint is all you can have." Selina said.

“Wait seriously? We can?” Danny and Ellie looked starry eyed at their mom.

“On the roof, half a joint. And yes.”

“Harls and I will join you. I think Jason is going out to patrol tonight. So he probably won’t.”

“Dude your new parents are so much more banger.” kitty said gleefully. “I wish Johnny and I had cool parents like you. Maybe we wouldn’t have died at 17.” she said wistfully.

“Would it be ok if I light tonight's candle?” ember asked moving the pot she had been literally cooking, to a pot holder on the table. “I… my family was… is…'' ember seemed to be struggling with how to word it. She flickered a bit and the others felt her pain/hurt/missingthem/family.

“Of course you can kiddo.'' Harley settled her without even having the feelings to go off of.

Jason came in with a huge tray of freshly fried donuts. “Everything ok here?”

“Yeah, just chatting.” Danny said.

“Johnny is back in the alley. Just kind of buzzing around. You want to call him back for lunch?” Jason added.

“Ugh do I have to?” kitty whined.

“Why are you two dating again?” Jason asked judgmentally.

“Because we are soulmates. Doesn’t mean he’s not a fuck up!” Kitty countered.

“Kitty sweetheart. Call them back for lunch.” Selina made the decision. “Men are stupid, doesn’t mean we can starve them.”

“These are hot, no touching.” Jason said, putting the tray in the laundry room and grabbing another batch of resting dough ready to go.

“Dick, can Danny and Ellie open their gifts, the bag is taunting them.” Selina addressed the man behind her at the sink.

“Oh yeah sure.” he said, drying his hands off and turning to watch as they dug into the bag. “You can decide who gets who but i thought you guys might share.” he smiled as the kids pulled out the ghost pokemon stuffies. “Some get well soon presents.”

“Oh not for the holidays?” danny asked squeezing his froslass to his chest

“What’s a get well soon present?” Ellie asked at the same time she jiggled her mimikyu from its ears.

“Oh uh when someone is hurt or sick you usually get them a gift to keep them in good spirits while they heal up. So they know you care.” Dick said. “Missing limbs is usually a big deal injury.”

“Cool.” Ellie said. “I’m putting it in my room. So it doesn’t get ruined.

“Same.” She and Danny phased through the ceiling up to their rooms. Dick looks around to see no one seemed phased by the behavior before smiling to himself and getting back to the dishes.

***************************************

“3 guns were unaccounted for in Ozzy's storage. He’s cleaning house, his closest men are taking direct custody of the remaining weapons. And once each of his men are armed the rest will get to us for maintenance.” Selina said. The living room held Jason, Waylon, dick and Selina. The rest of the merry band after dinner had gone up to the roof to smoke around a small fire pit with a tray of donuts.

“You trust penguin with that?” Dick asked a bit skeptically.

“More than I trust the bats with the tech. Or the g.p.d.” Selina said angrily.

“Does Batman have them?” Jason asked.

“Actually, no, Tim took them.” Jason bowed his head, grabbed his head pulling his hair as smoke started to billow off him. “I know what you are thinking, but Tim knows, he’s not going to do anything crazy, er crazy for him.” Jason glared at him through his fingers. “He knows they can explode and he was already struggling with trying to rework one of your coms he got a hold of. I’m sure he wouldn’t do anything that would make Danny not trust him to help with his tech. He has already ordered everything Danny said he needed to build a really ecto-condensor i think is what he called it. At the nest. He’s not…”

“Wait, he's going to show Danny the nest? He doesn’t let anybody know where it is. Not even you last checked." Jason was no longer brooding into his hands, a bit shocked.

“I know, I was shocked too. But if they were told to ask you guys if it was ok. And then he offered his place. It’s how Tim shows he cares, you know. Helping with the tech everyone needs.” dick said.

“Still can’t believe that little guy is a hero.” Waylon said.

“Have you seen my children?” Selina chuffed. “They are rather tiny as well.”

“But they have powers. It’s not the same.”

“Danny wants to I’ll green light it. Selina, what about you?”

Selina pursed her lips. “Batman doesn’t know where it is? You are sure of it?” she grilled dick.

“Tim has gone way out of his way to keep him from finding it. It’s his place to get away from him when he’s pissed at him.” dick said. “That fails if he can just waltz in whenever he wants. The only thing I know is it's somewhere here on the north island.”

“I’ll allow it. I guess. But Jason will know where it is the moment Danny is there.”

“Oh, I'll let him know that. But I don't think it will deter him. We are all worried about their health and want to help.” dick said. “Batman is having meetings with select members of the league. We are trying to fix this.”

“Then why the hell is the GIW still operating in the city?” Selina seethed.

“Because the bats and birds aren’t hitmen, nor hire them, unlike you guys.” Dick scolded. “It's going to take time to legally dismantle them. Gordon is helping give them the runaround with bureaucracy. We can help steer them away. We can sabotage. “

“I’m not apologizing for that.” Jason defended.

“Neither am i.” Selina said.

“Not asking you to, but don’t expect us to change how we do things drastically and we won’t expect you to either.” dick said he rolled his eyes when Jason scoffed. “I’m not batman. Your way works for you. You have a good thing going here in the alley and keeps getting better. And you do good not to kill when you teamed up with us to help us. And I'm eternally grateful for that. So are the others. And you know how he is. We all do. His hang ups are his. But we don’t judge you or your methods. They just aren’t for us. Any more than Batman's rules are for you. And you know me. I’m not letting his rules control me that much.”

“Kids aren’t gonna be in well enough shape to be going out. They are out of school sick for a bit.And they are safe here. Those scramblers are working pretty good." Waylon said. “We haven’t had a single one of those guys in white show up here yet. Kid does good work.”

“Except we doubled the amount of ghosts here.” Jason sighed. “We used up a good portion of the reserves for this one fight that had no payout.”

“I wouldn’t say that. Black mask didn’t get uranium batteries. And we got some of the ecto-weapons off the street we didn’t even know about. We know their idiot agents are getting robbed or mugged too.” dick added. “Walrus is in jail.”

“For now.” Selina said arms crossed.

“You comfortable with someone in the family hoovering the edges of the alley? To keep an eye on things till the kittens are healed up?” Dick asked. “Because they are going to all be hoovering till the kittens pop back up.”

“Johny’s obsession is causing mischief. Like petty theft, drag racing, just being a general nuisance. He has a familiar called shadow. Who causes bad luck. If anybody can’t leave him be, just be, I can’t have them hanging around too close. He just goes off and does his own thing. From my understanding if kitty and him are not fighting they will be glued together about it.”

“What about kitty? What’s her obsession?”

“Johnny.” Selina said with a grimace. “Not exactly healthy.”

“Nothing about their relationship is healthy.” Jason bemoaned.

“But kitty’s obsession is her boyfriend, his attention, his time, his love. To a smaller degree fashion and clothing. But her main one seems to be
Johnny.'' Selina continued.

“I can give descriptions and tell everyone to give them space. But you know B.”

“Anyone uses ecto-tech on any of these kids Dick, I'm raining fire down on them. Family included.” Jason threatened.

“I won’t let that happen. I won’t let B’s paranoia get that far. “ dick said with conviction.

“You better not, or I will take them and run as far as I have to.” Selina said.

Chapter Text

“Am I gonna get in trouble for missing so much school?” Danny asked. Looking at his legs reformed almost to their ankles.

“No sweetheart. It’s fine.” Selina said, giving her boy a kiss as she walked past the kids who were sitting around eating some of the donuts they had left.

“Listen to your mom dipstick, stop being such a nerd.” Johnny said, ruffling his hair.

“Coverbop, how did you luck out and not being such a dweeb?” ember said exasperated.

“Too cool for school.” she said, flipping down her shades from her head over her eyes and stuffing one of the deserts in her mouth.

“No ya not. Ya just starting late.” Harley said. “Next semester ya butt is in school.” Harley booped her nose. “Throw all ya brats in school if we could.”

“You telling us death doesn’t even get us out of school? Damn that sucks.” Kitty teased.

“Do you kids want to make challah bread today?” Pam asked, coming down. “No school, it's a long day project we can do.”

“We used up all the flour though.” Ellie whined.

“We did. How about a heist to get more?” Selina said with a teasing grin.

That had all the kids sitting up straight and looking at her attentively. “Dude you got the coolest mom.” Johnny shoved Danny as he whispered.

“Who wants to go?”

“Who are we stealing from?” Danny asked suspiciously.

“Wayne enterprises has a delivery coming in for their employee cafeteria. I don’t think it would hurt them to lose a truck or two worth of goods.'' Selina said a bit of a smirk. “And it’s driving through the alley.”

“Wow, can't say I'm surprised they are still around. They were a big name when we were alive.” Kitty said. “Wayne family still big wigs?”

“Is that company related to Tim and dick? Tim I think was duck-Wayne…" Danny flipped through his phone. “Drake-Wayne. Eh close enough.”

“Wait, we're robbing Jason's family?” Ember asked with a laugh.

“I got an anonymous tip.” Selina spread her hands out in front of her. “We could call it a maintenance payment for Jason.”

“Hell yeah! Let’s robin hood it." Johnny said excitedly.

“I guess, bread making will be tomorrow. What do we want for Hanukkah tonight then Harls?” Pam asked.

“How about yous and I make some vegetarian matzo ball soup? While the kids have fun with momma cat.”

“That’s fine. Return to the colony safely everyone.” Pam said teasingly.

“Wait, we didn't decide yet.”

“Yeah we did. We are doing it!” all the other teens said. Danny rolled his eyes.

“You can ensure no one gets hurt kitten.” Selina clapped her hands.

“Can I mind control with my singing?” Ember asked. “Like the drivers and witnesses?”

“Sure.” “no.”

“Mom!”

“It’ll be fine. Just a short bit of time.” Selina held her fingers an inch apart roughly.

“Ugh fine. But I hate it. Can’t we just do fast and the furious without guns?”

“Cause we’re family!” Ellie laughed, hitting Danny on the back with her ⅔ formed arm.

****************************************

Bruce stared at the email he had sitting open on his computer he had just gotten from commissioner Gordon. About the broad daylight theft of 4 delivery trucks worth of supplies headed to Wayne tower, in crime alley. No witnesses, the drivers were disorientated. And the truck's gps malfunctioned once they were in the alley as well as dash cams. The trucks shouldn’t have even gone through there on their route. They were food supply deliveries so it wasn’t something dire. But he knew one of the kids had to be involved with it. He could have just had food delivered to the sirens like a normal person, but no. His kids had to set up so Selina could be teaching his youngest children how to do highway robbery.

Bruce forwarded the email to Tim and waited.

“Wasn’t me.” Tim's voice came out his office phone speaker. Bruce let out a heavy sigh. “I swear! I’ve been busy with other projects! I don’t have time for that. Clever though. And i mean you know… it’s not that bad nobody got hurt.'' Bruce rubbed his forehead, elbow of the hand resting on the table. “It means they are not, you know dead dead. Probably doing better. Or at least the injuries didn’t take them out of commission." Bruce hit the button to hang up on his son still rubbing his head.

****************************************

“It worked!” Steph said excitedly. Looking over Bab's shoulder. She high fived Cass. Standing beside her.

“Guess we owe Helena a thank you for trusting us and passing it along.” Babs said with an amused head shake.

“Think Jason is gonna be mad when he figures it out?” Steph asked.

“No, because Selina knew as soon as she knew where it was going and what it was. So it wasn’t a surprise. But happy they took the help." Babs clarified.

*************************************************

“Hey Bart, you want to come out to Gotham tonight? I’ll fill you in and let you help us with my current project.”

“I would love to man but I can't. The fam are currently getting check ups at star labs." Bart said.

“Why? Did something happen?” Kon asked.

“No idea. We can’t think of anything, but something is up with our speed or something. None of us can get close to our max speeds. Nor can any of us get into the speedforce. Oh and like Wally took a pretty bad fall when he was in the middle of a run and like lost his speed for a few minutes." Bart informed them.

“What? when did that happen?” Tim asked.

“2 nights ago. Wally was out late. Barry and I were home when it happened, but since his fall we’ve been having issues. Wally’s healed up just fine though.” the sounds of Bart crinkling a food wrapper coming over the line.

“And testing just started today or?” Tim prompted.

“Oh we haven’t found anything wrong. Like illness, poison, besides Wally any injuries. Nada.” Bart said with a mouthful of food. “Just weirdness all around. But once we get the all clear i can come out sound crash?”

“Yeah, sounds good. Keep me updated though ok?” Tim said with concern.

“Will do, caparoo.” Bart said. “Call Cassie, I'm sure she’d come help.”

“Cassie isn’t as curious as you are. We wanted to test our baby proofing and anti-phasing shielding.”

“I was your go to for baby proof testing? Not crash, man." Bart said with mock annoyance. “Call m’gann for the phasing checks.”

“Ugh not sure if i can do that just yet. Batman is being tight lipped on who in the jl is in the know, dick called up Wally, so i can blame him if things get out in the flash family.'' Tim reasoned.

Kon just stared at him hovering to the side of his chair while the line was silent for several minutes. “Dude, your family has some serious trust issues. And these kinds of plotting's do not help my man.”

“They work for us.” Tim defended.

“Tim, you need to talk to your siblings. And get on the same page here I think, just a little.” Kon suggested.

“Tell Dick and Jason that.” Tim argued back, throwing his arms up.

*********************************************************

“Alright who wants to light the candle tonight?” Harley asked the gathered kids.

“Danny, would you like to? You haven’t yet.” Selina offered her son.

“I, uh, I'm not sure…” Danny started.

“Come on kiddo. Worse you can do is catch the house on fire. And we can put it out real quick.” Harley teased.

“You’ve done the prayers 3 times already Danny. And we can help if you stumble.” Pam chipped in.

“Come on babypop. I did it yesterday.” Ember encouraged.

“Not gonna make fun of you dipstick. Just do your family thing." Johnny ruffled the kids' heads.

“You want a lift Danny or float?” Jason asked.

“I can float.” Danny said, lifting himself up to the menorah. And lifting the middle candle from its place. “Blessed are you, Our God, Ruler of the Universe, who makes us holy through Your commandments, and commands us to light the Hanukkah lights.” Danny recited the family joining with him in saying it. And then lit the next candle. “Blessed are you, Our God, Ruler of the Universe, who performed miracles for our ancestors in their days at this season.” reciting the next prayer with everyone. Before carefully setting the candle back in its place.

Jason snatched Danny out of the air and pulled him in for a hug. “Good job kiddo.”

“My turn tomorrow.” Ellie said with a raise of the stubby arm.

“Sure kitten.” Selina said.

“What do you kids want to do now?” Waylon asked.

“We made a playlist of Hanukkah songs. Can we play it?” ember asked.

“Sure that sounds nice.'' Pamela said as the group wandered back to the living room and out of the entryway.

Chapter Text

“Do you want to call them Dami?” Dick asked. He was sitting on the couch with Jon and Damian after school waiting for patrol time.

“I trust your assessment of their health and progress.”

“Doesn't mean you can't be worried, Dami.” Dick said, putting an arm around him. “For most that would have been some pretty scary injuries.”

“I for one am pleased to hear that someone is taking rest and healing seriously.” Alfred stated bringing in a few snacks and drinks. “Maybe the young masters and mistresses around here could take note.” he ended pointedly.

“Thanks Alfred.”

“What about this one?” Jon said leaning over to show something on his phone to Damian. It was a little throw blanket with ghost pokemon.

“Aw, are you guys gift shopping for the kittens too?” Dick cooed. “I got them some ghost pokemon plushies too.”

“Which ones?” Jon asked.

“Froslass, and mimikyu. Cause Schrodinger has ice powers and Duplicat I thought would relate a bit to the imposter pokemon. I thought they might switch but they liked what I picked out.”

“I'll write that down so we don’t get them the same ones.” Jon said. “My parents said I could get them something a while ago. But I didn't know what. Mom said blankets are a good gift for anyone.”

“I do not like this franchise but the kittens did like their gifts?” Damian asked.

“Yes they did.” Dick answered gently.

“Perhaps the ghost one for Duplicat, but are their spaced themes for these creatures? That would do better to get them different ones.”

“They do! There is even a ghost space pokemon.” Jon pulled up another blanket with cosmog and all its evolutions.

Damian gave a nod. “That is satisfactory.”

“Jon, do you want to call them?” Dick asked.

“Richard, if you wish to call them no one is stopping you.” Damian chided.

“I think Damian is worried they will take it badly if we contact with a means they haven’t given us yet.” Jon said sending the items links to his mom.

“We have ample examples of them becoming hostile when their boundaries are crossed. Being injured could make them even more defensive.” Damian verified.

“That was early on. You guys are close now.” Dick tried to persuade.

“Richard, you have more knowledge than you wish us to believe about the situation.” Damian accused sharp eyes pinned to his oldest sibling. “What should have been a simple task, turned into a dangerous situation, partially because we don’t know what can and can not be shared across group lines. My choice in tactics directly caused their injuries. We’ve not had any group training to work out proper configurations partially because of mutual distrust. I have no intention of making them worse.”

“Dami what happened wasn’t your fault.” Dick squeezed Dami’s shoulder. Jon was looking at Dami with a pout too.

“It was. They have stated multiple times that they do not engage in combat with humans. And have demonstrated such repeatedly in the field. Instead of modifying our protocols with that in mind I asked them to work outside their area of skill. To defend objects that normally we couldn’t transport last minute, 3 supers could. Schrodinger made the better call in having Duplicat and Superboy run. A call I failed in my duty to make.” Damian looked down at his lap. “Until I am able to make a better assessment with my limited information, I should not be leading them into dangerous situations.”

“Hey, that’s mostly Bruce’s fault.” Dick said. “He made you doubt your calls. Because you had more information than he does. He can’t treat them like the siren’s because they are tiny variations of their mom. Or even Jason. Which is what he is used to. Almost all the vigilantes in Gotham, including the meta’s till now, were trained in some way by him, and don’t have extreme outlying powers. Most are human plus not superhumans.”

“Doesn’t that mean the same thing?” Jon asked.

“I’m wording this badly. Duke and ivy, are meta's. '' he waited till both boys nodded. “Same thing that hurts humans is going to hurt them, even if they can do more. Their physical abilities if you told them to not actively use their powers doesn’t change from a human. Schrodinger and Duplicat are more like Superboy, or Martian manhunter. You ask them to not use their powers, they are still going to just be able to do things humans can not, and be hurt by different things. And in the same vein there are things they just aren’t going to be able to do. Part of the problem is Bruce is making assumptions about them getting training like he gave sirens and hood. Jason is going out of his way not to train them. He has too much trauma tied to being a vigilante and kids doing vigilante work. But league training, that you and Bruce got, and that he passes to all of us in different ways, can not and will not work on the kittens. Anymore than it would on the martians. They are not biologically compatible. The sirens realize this. And seeing how that type of training though can be good in the field has also made us all paranoid and unable to communicate with each other basic things, let alone emotional issues.” Dick tapped Damian’s nose causing the boy to scrunch it at him and sneer. “The kittens need to be thought of a bit like half aliens. Their alien half is a physical manifestation of emotion. Same goes for hood.”

“Like the lantern core’s rings?'' Jon asked which got several bats to turn to him. Including one to drop out of hiding. And more in the doorway

“Well shit.'' Tim said from the doorway where he stood with Steph and Duke. Cass had moved closer to the coffee table grabbing one of the sandwiches but watching the boys intently. “That might be a good analogy with some of those constructs they made.”

“Good observation Jon.” Dick praised and ruffled the kids hair. “Bruce needs to pull out his justice league protocols when dealing with the kittens and hood, and less his Gotham vigilante ones.”

Steph scoffed plopping onto one of the chairs across from them. “Bruce won’t because that goes against his no supers in his city rules.” Tim sat on the arm of the chair she was in. Duke took another seat. “Speaking of where is your boyfriend Tim?” Duke snorted as Tim prickled.

“He went to go check on Bart and the speedsters.” Tim stated. “And I don’t need him here till after the holiday’s now since the freezer won’t be delivered till then.”

“But you were enjoying b’s laxing of the rules on supers in his city.” Duke teased.

“What’s wrong with the speedsters?” Dick asked with concern.

“They don’t know. They couldn't find anything wrong but their powers were acting up. They just got access to the speed force today. But can’t hit their top speeds consistently still." Tim answered.

“When did they start having problems?” Dick asked, trying to hide his concern. Damian raised his eyebrow at his brother but kept his head towards Tim. He caught Cass's subtle sign. Tense.

“A few nights ago…” Tim answered again, also looking suspect at Dick.

“The night of the warehouse shit show?” Steph clarified. Now all eyes were Dick.

“I’m sure it’s just…” Damian grabbed Dick’s phone and tossed it. Duke used his powers to catch it in the shadow of the table and drop it into the couch next to him, lifting it and passing it to Tim.

“He was texting Constantine.'' Tim looked at the inbound message number. That he could get from the lock screen. Before glaring at Dick. “Do i hack open your phone Dick? Or you sharing why you're texting him of all people right now when we are discussing this?”

“It’s about something…”

“He’s gonna lie anyway, break it open.” Steph prodded.

“It’s considered need to know information. Justice League dark and a select few members of the league.” Dick cut off Tim trying to dive for his phone, starting a full group fight between the bat siblings.

“Then why do you have it?” Duke asked, helping to attempt to pin Dick. Cass guarding Tim as he worked on the phone.

“Because Schrodinger and Jason shared it with me. Sorta. I was there when it was explained.” he changed course when he saw the gleeful look in Tim’s eye. Jon was now floating near the ceiling to avoid the brawl.

“Timothy cease!” Damian shouted, breaking off of Dick but holding form in front of him. “If this a secret at whose requests?”

“Dark, b’s report is lacking some details. But they can’t risk a mole getting other information. It’s for the kitten’s safety. And to avoid panic.”

“There isn’t a mole here in the family.” Tim stressed.

“True, but the siren’s and kitten’s and Jason don’t agree on that. If people who they don’t know suddenly have this information they are going to get skittish.” Dick tried to reason.

“Return the phone timothy.” Damian turned to face Cass and Tim now. “I’m unwilling to risk alienating them.”

“You wanted to know how these things are connected too! You took his phone!” Tim threw his arms up.

“Not at the cost of…”

“Why not just ask the kittens themselves?” Duke asked.

“I don’t think they’d know actually.” Dick said.

“What does the warehouse, the speedsters power issues and the zeta tube malfunctions have in common?” Tim asked. Still holding up the now unlocked phone.

“What?” Steph asked, confused.

Dick used the distraction to bypass everyone still trying to fight him and grabbed a pillow to knock the phone out of Tim's hand. He dove for it but came up with out it while Jon held out the phone above them. “Who gets it Damian?”

“You may return it to Richard.” Damian said.

“He asked for log times. And texted Wally for the closest time he had for the first power malfunction.” Tim added arms crossed.

“Why? No way black mask organized an attack like that over such unrelated targets.” Duke said, confused.

“Drop it guys. This isn’t public knowledge. The kittens don’t even believe Connie about it. So don’t go grilling them on it. Constantine is trying to figure something out.” Dick scolded.

“So they are magical creatures?” Steph asked. “With dark being involved?”

“Beings. They are people, not animals Stephanie.” Damian chided.

“Do you think cujo counts as an animal?” Jon asked.

“An exception.” Damian answered.

“No they are connected somehow to the kittens but how?” Tim mused out loud.

“Drop it now Tim!” Dick said sharply.

“You wouldn’t even know about the speedster thing if i hadn’t brought it up. And yet it was urgent enough for you to try and sneak texting in front of all of us. So it’s fucking serious Dick!” Tim snapped.

Then all heads snapped towards the sound of a voice clearing near the doorway. “Master Tim I do believe you owe the swear jar a tip.”

“Sorry Alfred.” Tim bowed his head a bit. “I’ll be sure to do that.”

“I trust you will.” Alfred said curtly. “Now we have guests. I strongly suggest everyone settle down and act like it if you would." Alfred looked at Jon till he slowly settled back onto the couch.

“Are you going to tell Bruce?” Tim asked as he took a seat. The rest slowly doing the same.

Dick glared at Tim but answered. “No. not till Constantine has a more definitive answer. I’m not risking someone getting any bright ideas to test theories on them.”

that had a few eyes shifting to Tim. “I’m not going to turn them into lab rats!” Tim defended himself. He huffed and crossed his arms when several of the bats just rolled their eyes away from him. “If something is affecting our allies should we not get answers for them? Wally was hurt when he lost control of his powers.” Tim dug at Dick.

“It’s not definitive. And the speedsters wouldn’t accept the answers we have now even if Constantine and zee gave them their version of evidence and it was definitive. And the kittens will deny it. And it wouldn’t be definitive till well after we all pass away most likely. Not without some really unethical practices. They don’t believe in magic. So it’d be mute anyway. Just stop it Tim.”

“But…”

“Drop it! Finding the answer puts them at a higher risk then if we just leave it unknown. It also puts the kids at more risk.” Dick pointed a finger at him. “This, this is why Selina and Jason keep us all at arm's length. Because we were all trained to hunt down answers no matter who gets hurt by that process so long as we know, because we think we can do better with that knowledge than who it actually effects!” that got the room to grow quiet in discomfort. “If You need something. The speedsters should be back up to their normal selves soon.”

“Could you give a time frame suggestion?” Duke asked for Tim. Seeing how heated this was getting. Duke sat straighter under the first robin’s hard look.

“Probably when the kittens are all healed up. You can have a timer in both directions if you want that way.” Dick said sharply. “That’s all you are getting. You put the pieces together, keep it to yourselves.” he watched as Tim's brain ran a mile a minute at his words. Eyes wide at the possibilities.

“You believed they were healing up well and in good spirits when you saw them yesterday?” Damian enquired again now for the whole group.

“Yep. they had some help healing up. Not at 100% but definitely good spirits. Even if they don't seem to think so. They laughed anytime that was said.”

“Ugh i missed the pun….” Steph faked gagged.

“Do you think they will be trying to patrol tonight?” Damian asked. Jon brightened up at his words in his seat.

“We can always call and ask. I will use my phone. I doubt they will be upset by it. Promise.” Dick said gently.

“Can we do a group speaker call? We were worried too.” Steph asked.

“Very.” Cass said. Moving closer to the table.

“You ok sharing Dami?”

“If I must. I at least can blame all of you if they are displeased.”

“That’s the way around here.” Tim nodded along. Though his mind seemed elsewhere.

Dick put his phone on the table and hit the speakerphone button as it dialed. Displaying a name instead of a number. “Hello, dipstick is unable to come to the phone right now may i suggest calling back later?” came once the phone picked up. Yelling came from the background. Jon picked up a name of johnny and give it back asshole a few sounds of things breaking.

Many of the bats tensed up. “Who…”

“Johnny give Schrodinger or Duplicat the phone please.” Dick said with a sigh.

“Who the fuck is that?” Johnny said over the phone. “What seriously? That’s why you guys looked like little furries. Could you two dweebs get worse?” ruckus laughter bellowed out of the phone. “Ow hey! Take it! Not the bike, you almost…”

“Got it! Danny Ellie catch!”

“Ember you idiot she has one hand!” another female voice came through the phone. “No shadow! Johnny call him off! That other halfa isn’t as cool as the nerds.” more incoherent yelling. It seems the phone on their end was now on speaker phone.

Dick was rubbing his hands together and trying to hold in his laughter. The sight of his siblings trying to assess what level of concern they should have by the going on the one side of the line.

“Got it! I got it! Hello! Dick?” a grunt and groan “no off, Cujo get shadow before Jason loses his shit. Go, be a good boy and fetch. Oof.”

“Dude, that worked! Is he gonna catch him before Jason notices?”

“He already noticed. It’s can he before something explodes or wrecks.”

“What!?” several bats yelled. “Are you in need of…”

“Oh Superboy! Robin!” two happy voices came over the phone.

“Wait, your hero friends? Let us see dipstick.” the female voice said again.

“We can’t do video calls, they don’t have my tech, let go kitty.”

“Guess they aren’t that good of friends.” Johnny teased.

“It sounds much like this house hold over there. Pity.” Alfred commented. Drawing silence from the phone.

“Is that an adult? Is that batman?" Danny's worried voice came over the phone.

“No, that’s my grandpa who made the cookies. Batman is not here kitten. But all the birds are here. They wanted to check in on you. They are worried. You’re friends still over?”

“Oh yeah, Ellie just has to reform her hand. And I got to my ankles today." Danny answered.

“You’re interrupting our fighting time Dick.” Johnny shouted over them. “Call later.”

“We can fight later Johnny. Let the kids talk, ancients Johnny.” kitty scolded.

“Losers jealous he’s not got their undivided attention.” ember teased.

“I’m not jealous! They don’t have tech so they aren’t that cool! And I don't need the attention of babies!”

“We aren’t babies!”

“Those babies still kicked your ass johnny.” Kitty's voice came over the phone.

“Pft introduce us while Johnny sulks.” ember said.

“Oh, yeah robin, Superboy, who else is with you Dick?” Ellie asked.

Dick. Duke mouthed wide eyed.

“Did you get us compromised?” Tim asked once it dawned on him.

“Oh that’s Tim, hi Tim.” Danny said.

“No, we are opening channels of trust with the kittens. The rest of the sirens know our civilian i.d.s” Dick defended. As his siblings glared at him. “Say hi Tim.”

“Hi Danny.” Tim angrily signed what about the other three.

“Jason is mad about you taking me home from school.” Danny informed him.

“I’m sure he is. Tell him not to murder the teacher.”

“What?” Duke said, startled.

“Dick talked him down. And Johnny volunteered to haunt him. He hates jerk teachers.” Danny answered.

“Is this Jonathan like you and Elizabeth then?” Damian asked. Using their civilian names since they did. Though he wasn’t confident in their use.

“Who’s Elizabeth?”

“I get called Jonathan again, I'm gonna haunt that person.” a crackling warped voice that barely registered as johnny’s came over the phone.

“Whoa whoa, I think we might have one of those cultural barriers.” Tim sat up straight holding a hand up towards Damian and the rest of the family to keep them quiet. “Robin has a thing where he has to call people by their whole proper first name if he has it. It used to be last names, but now it’s full first names.”

“Well he better get over it if he’s gonna hang with us.” Ember angrily added. “Some of us don’t even remember our living names.”

“Uh, some of us have trauma with our given living names.” Danny tried to clarify. “Or like Ember said. It’s better to use like the name we give or a nickname.”

“Like dipstick?” Duke asked carefully.

“I mean it doesn’t have to be insulting but yeah that’s better than being called my legal first name”

“And he’s our dipstick. Get your own nickname.” kitty shut that down.

“Babypop, and cover baby are also taken.” ember said.

“Thank you for announcing all your favorite insults.” Danny said sarcastically.

“So who is Elizabeth?” Ellie asked again.

“He thought that was your full name Ellie.” kitty informed.

“Oh, yeah not even close. The closest I'll accept is Dani.”

“Wait, like call both of you Danny?” Steph asked.

“Who are you?” Danny asked.

“Spoiler. The one you haven’t met yet. And I'm truly insulted by that. I promise I'm way cooler than the rest of these losers.” that was met with ruckus scuffs and as ifs.

“And no, he’s Danny, I'm Dani with one n and an i.”

“There is a reason she chose Ellie.” Danny pointed out. “So who else did I hear? I think Signal?”

“Yep. here.”

“Orphan.” Cass said sharply to be heard.

“You haven’t met her yet either. And she doesn’t talk a lot verbally. So she might be quiet this call.”

“Oh ok. Well Johnny,” “whatever.” “kitty” “hi.” “and ember.” “what’s up roadies?”

that got a snort from Ellie. “I think we are the roadies.”

“And we aren’t like the halfa’s we are dead dead.'' Johnny said smugly.

Tim, Dick and Damian quickly signed out for no one to ask about anyone's deaths.

“You are just picking on Dick now. You know it makes him despresso everytime us being dead is addressed.” ember scolded.

“He can get over it.”

“Jason said he’s sensitive.”

The bats all stared at Dick wide eyed and nervous at their chatter. “Can we ask your ages?” Duke decided to ask.

“Dead ages or death ages?” kitty clarified.

“I'm not sure we know the difference.” Steph answered.

“The age we died, or how long we’ve been dead?” ember asked.

“Both?” Tim asked.

“Johnny and I are both 49 for death age, and 18 and 17.” kitty answered

“36 and 16” ember chipped in hers.

“Oh, you are a lot older than Danny and Ellie.” Tim said.

“In death years yeah. All the halfa’s are babies.”

“Schrodinger Duplicat will you be well enough for patrol this evening and if so would you still find yourselves willing to be under my guidance after my last failure?” Damian spoke up, finally cutting off his siblings. Ignoring their shock at his words.

“I don’t see why we can’t. I don’t think my feet are growing back tonight but I can float. Ellie is short a hand but we can work around those. It’s getting out of the alley, Jason is worried about more people having weapons from the guys in white. Plus with like 7 of us the only working shields are in the alley. And the mobile scrambler would probably not be approved by Jason or mom after last time.”

“I think that's a he doesn’t know.” ember translated.

“Quit being nerds. Sneak out.” Johnny said.

“Hey, hey. Bad advice johnny.” Dick scolded.

“We know not to listen to johnny.” Ellie said. “We can ask and get back with Dick. Also what failure?”

“Good question.” Danny said.

“Your injuries are from my poor leadership in the field.” Damian started.

“Superboy smack him for us please.” Danny said.

“I’d rather not.” Jon said.

“We aren’t there to knock sense into him so you have to do it. Shove him if you won’t hit him.” Ellie jumped in.

“Uh…” Jon gave Damian a quick push to his shoulder barely jostling him. “Done.”

“None of that was your fault dude. And we weren’t hurt that bad.”

“Excuse me you are missing limbs.” Steph bulked.

“They grow back.” all the kids on the other side said.

“And that is kind of because we removed them. Which is the best idea Ellie ever had. It actually keeps the injuries way less. We can start healing right away instead of waiting for the ecto to stop leaking and then trying to replace it to heal.”

“Removing the damaged limb stops the loss of ecto, and then we can just reabsorb the ecto in the limb we removed.” Ellie said. “I’d done it with a finger before. So decided to try going bigger.”

“Wait? Are you saying you like ate your injured limb?” Duke asked, a bit horrified.

“Yeah.” Ellie answered.

“Dude, that is a great idea. We should share that in case anyone else gets hit by the giw." Johnny said.

“He’s gonna get high and try to eat his own arm.” kitty said exasperated.

“Please don’t.” Dick asked.

“Anyway those weren’t too bad of injuries. And not your fault. You didn’t give them the guns.”

“But I made the assumption you had better defenses against them, despite you telling me you do not fight humans, yet I asked you to fight.”

“No you didn’t. You asked us to guard something. It’s fine robin.”

“How do you guys usually fight those kind of weapons?” Steph asked.

“We don’t.” all the ghosts answered.

“We run. Or someone runs distraction taking hits while others get away." Danny answered.

“No you always run opening act babypop, so the rest of us can escape your parents or the guys in white.” ember scoffed but it was soft sounding.

“Yeah we owe you big for that. Sorry we didn’t get to do the same for you." Johnny said.

“It’s not your guys fault what happened before either. It’s no one's fault.” Danny said. “Just like this time. Plus we got away this time. And got rid of one of those guns. And we got the others off the street right? So it’s a win. We did good. Robin didn’t do anything wrong.”

“I did. I should have taken in your position not to engage in combat with humans, and made the choice for us to run with the crate at the beginning, like you did. Even if you do not believe so, I will do my best to make improvements so we do not have a repeat incident." Robin said. Drawing silent stares from his siblings. And a proud smile from Dick.

“Thanks robin, but we are cool.”

“Hey dipstick, I think Jason is calling us…”

“Is that what that is?” Johnny asked.

“He’s still learning ghost speak. But we need to get back it’s time for our Hanukkah dinner and festivity. We can text if we can go out. But if we do, do you guys want to try some of the bread we made today?”

“Sure kitten. Would love too.” Dick said.

“Sweet. Catch you guys later.” Danny said.

“Bye!” the three girls said.

“Later losers.” Johnny tacked on before they hung up.

“I think hell froze over. Damian is…”

“Shut the hell up Tim.” Steph said to him glaring before turning to Damian. “That was very brave of you to admit you made a mistake. Apologizing to them for it, that takes a lot of maturity most of us around here Don’t have. I'm proud of you demon brat.”

“You did good Damian.” Duke smiled his way.

“Well done master Damian.” Alfred also praised.

“I do not need your praise for properly caring for my team.” Damian scoffed. “They have informed me already that emotional trauma is far more harmful than physical trauma. I intend to make an effort not to exacerbate their injuries.”

“What?” Tim asked.

“If their feelings are hurt they will heal slower from physical injuries is what they told us.” Jon answered, grabbing a sandwich for himself.

“OH, OH no. No, no.” Tim grabbed his head. “Seriously?”

“Yeah, they are very emotionally based. Like Kori and raven in a way. Or the lantern rings. I'm glad they told you that.” Dick said to the youngest two.

“I requested all pertinent information in regards to their needs of first aid and was informed.” Damian stated.

“Now it makes sense why Selina and Jason want us all away from them.” Steph said Duke and Cass nodded in agreement.

“Why didn't you share that information? It's not in their file?”

“Why did you not share you made contact in civilian i.d. with them?” Damian shot back.

“It was unintentional and…”

“And Tim would have to explain why he kidnapped Danny.” Dick said, grinning at his sibling.

“It wasn't kidnapping! No force or coercion was used!”

“You threatened the staff.” Dick sing-songed.

“How'd you even know it was Schrodinger?” Duke asked.

“Once you see them you'll know.” Is all Tim said.

“He goes to our school.” Damian spoke up.

“How have we missed him then?” Duke asked.

“He can sense me. If he is easily identified he most likely avoids me. I will make an effort then to make contact.” Damian decided.

“Maybe school is not the best place for that first encounter.” Dick said.

“It's definitely not.” Tim agreed which had the rest of the birds suspicious.

“I know where he is at. He has a really slow heartbeat. We can sneak up on him.” Jon said.

“This is unfair. I want to meet them.” Steph pouted.

“I'm sure it's inevitable, but I'd prefer to postpone it as long as I can.” Damian replied to her.

“Quit being a hog. They don't even match your personality. You don't let them use their full potential. I want a graffiti gargoyle memorial.” Steph whined

“Same.” Cass said. She ignored the deadpanned stare Damian gave her.

Dicks phone buzzed. He checked it and smiled. “Baby b incoming. You too jon.”

Both boys pulled out their phones that were now going off. Steph and Duke both elbowed Tim before he could comment on Damian's small smile.

“Ask if I can have their numbers.” Tim asked, rubbing his sides.

“They wish to know why you want it.” Damian relayed.

“To arrange for him to build the condenser.”

“Huh, they are confused, they said red robin offered them space for that.” Jon relayed.

“What? How is it not obvious I am red robin?”

“It's gonna take them a minute.” Dick laughed. “It only clicked I was Nightwing cause Jason calls me Dickwing.”

“You are joking.” Duke said.

“Nope.” Dicked popped his p.

“They do not believe Tim is red robin.” Damian said with a smirk.

“What? Why the hell not?” Tim squawked.

“And I quote. Tim is nice. Red robin is a jerk most of the time.”

Steph cracked up. And Duke tried coughing into his hand to cover up his laughter. Cass patted Tim's leg but she was smiling. Tim held his hands out like he wanted to strangle someone.

“Tim, once Danny sees your lab or Jason let's you near Danny's, I'm pretty sure you are going to be his favorite. So don't sweat it.” Dick chuckled.

“I will absolutely not be losing my position to timothy.” Damian glared at Dick.

“It would be best for you not to see bonding and building relationships as competition, young masters and mistresses.” Alfred reprimanded.

“I foresee you losing it quickly if you call the dannies by their full names.” Tim teased. “But this will be good social practice for you.”

“No wonder she chose the name Ellie, but I mean dannies, kittens, ghosties, you can double them up on everything.” Steph said.

“Ellie and Danny are both really different though.” Jon said. “When things are calm Danny is more thoughtful, and Ellie is all action moving going. And Ellie eggs Danny into way more pranks and stuff.”

“So what’s the verdict? Are they joining you for patrol?” Duke asked.

“Yes, but they will be bringing a tag along, they said.” Damian answered. “Father will not be pleased but I do not intend to spur them.”

“If they pull the bread out of their chest, do not eat it please.” Tim asked Damian, staring him down. Several heads turned to Alfred at the sound of clattering dishes, as the man was picking up the empty plates where they had finished off sandwiches.

“They do wrap up the food.” Jon clarified for Alfred.

“Thank you for that reassurance mr. jon.”

“I’ll eat it. Bring me some.” Steph said, staring down Tim. Tim grimaced.

“You drank a canned coffee beverage Duplicat removed from her leg.” Damian countered.

“Say Ellie.” Cass said, looking at Damian.

The younger boy pursed his lips and stared down his oldest sister. Everyone grew silent as they waited in anticipation.

“He won’t. He’d lose his stance for the rest of us.” Tim met Damian’s glare. “He wants to try to hold his superiority over the rest of the plebs.”

Damian raised an eyebrow at Tim's words. “Is that what you think drake?” Damian said the last name pointedly. “In that case, I've already held Jon in higher esteem than you.”

“That doesn’t count because you know it’s his kryptonian name.” Tim argued.

“Danny and Ellie are easily superior to you. How does it feel drake to know my respect for you is lower than outsiders?”

Dick made direct eye contact with Tim and had an almost manic look in his eye even Steph and Duke caught. Cass took hold of Steph's hand and squeezed it, the blonde returning it in a death grip to redirect her energy to contain her coming outburst. Even Superboy was quick to grab a sandwich to keep his mouth busy. Tim was manic looking himself in his seat obviously fighting with himself. Lips as tight as his grip on his own thighs as he forced out. “Just peachy, your respect isn’t worth much anyway.”

Damian scoffed. “We shall see how long you can hold your head up drake to my scorn. I look forward to your groveling for me to return your naming rights.” he grabbed another sandwich himself. “Come Jon, we have plans to make for this evening. Let us take Titus for a walk while we discuss. Duke I expect your day reports to be completed and up to date by our return to plan.”

“Sure, no problem.” Duke answered his own mouth tight as the group watched the two younger boys leave. Once Cass gave the signal they were out of Damian’s hearing range all hell broke loose again. Cass snatched the tray off the table to prevent it from being knocked over and munched on it from the safety of her seat away from the brawl.

“You Dick! I had to let that smug little….”

“It was for the greater good!”

“Oh you are such bastards!”

“Are you idiots out of your minds?!”

“Does Bruce know?!”

“You owe me motherfucker!”

“Yes Bruce knows.”

All the siblings stopped their fighting mid-motion as Bruce stood in front of the now shut door to the sitting room with Alfred at his side.

“Mistress Steph, and master Tim i expect hefty contributions to the swear jar.”

“Yes Alfred.” the two parroted while still staring shocked at Bruce.

“How long have you known?” Dick asked.

“It was a speculation at first. Based on Danny's age.” Bruce said. “And it is the theory that has the most evidence. Even though I haven't gotten definitive proof, I feel confident in that call.” Bruce ended with a tired sigh. “You all seem to have definitive proof you haven’t shared. Did one of you scrub DNA from the computer?”

“Didn’t need dna. Danny looks just like a little baby you.” Dick said. “Ellie has Danny's eyes and similar other features but she seems to have gotten a little bit more traits from Selina and whoever her other donor was.”

“The teacher who called you confused Danny for Damian they look kinda similar.” Tim offered his agreeance.

“Other donor?” Steph asked.

“Ellie is a clone similar to Connor.”

“So a test tube baby.” Duke said.

“Does that make you a grandpa b?” Steph asked.

Cass answered first. “Yes.”

“No.” Bruce countered. “Considering their relationship, it would be more prudent and less attention drawing to refer to her as my daughter also. ”

“So what are you going to do now that you know, and we all know?” Duke asked.

“The only immediate plan I need assistance with at the moment, considering the state of our strained relationship, is getting a face to face meeting with Selina so I can pass along Danny and Ellie's Christmas gifts and open a path of communication again.”

“Danny has trauma with Christmas. I’d sell it as a Hanukkah gift.” Dick pointed out.

“I will add that to the file.” Bruce said with a tired sigh.

“His birthday is in February.” Dick said softly. “Could hold off too. Ellie’s is celebrated 6 months to the date out, so they aren’t the same. that's the current plan.”

“I’d rather not. They are items to help with their obsessions.” Bruce offered up the information.

“You were there the whole time weren’t you?” Tim pouted.

“He figured it out that night cause he broke a cubby door when he got changed out.” Steph tattled. “It’s the night you didn’t come back to the cave right?” Tim nodded.

“I’ll help.” Cass said standing. Signing baby siblings. Selina trusts me. Know where one of her safe houses is. And alarm.

“Thank you class.” Bruce said to her with a slight smile.

Chapter Text

“So this is the little hero squad of Gotham huh?” Johnny said from his bike shadow close to his heels, Kitty on the back. Ember and the kittens floating nearby. While cujo sniffed around. “Kind of pipsqueaks like your little team back in amity.”

“I’m not normally allowed in Gotham, but Batman and my dad made an exception so I could hang out with Robin and the kittens.”

“There are also more of us however we are spread out over the city.” Robin added, looking the pair on the bike up and down. “Will you be joining us this evening also?”

“Nah, not a great idea for us all to pile up like this.” Kitty said getting settled more on the bike. “This used to be our old haunt. We are gonna see how things have changed since the 70’s.”

“Besides gotham crawling with vigilantes like roaches.” Johnny joked.

“That why the city spirit hasn’t like lost their mind about having a bunch of us roll up in here?” Ember asked.

“Gotham is old and sick or something. Probably doesn’t hurt though. Feels like home to me though. Gotham’s a better parent than ours ever were.'' Johnny informed them.

“Oh…” the three younger ghosts said in unison.

“We haven’t upset them have we?” Danny asked.

“Naw, they seem to like ya. Get the protective mother henning feeling fright knight gives ya nerds.” Kitty said. “Come on Johnny nights still young but it isn’t gonna last. And we need to get back to the zone soon to keep everyone off their asses.”

“Don’t go to your death spot.” Ember warned.

“Wasn’t planning on it. You three be safe." Johnny said revving his engine. “Catch you back in the halfa’s haunt.”

“So what do you guys normally do around here?” Ember asked.

“We patrol around certain areas from the roof lines looking for signs of criminal activity and break it off, or apprehend them to hold for the police to pick up and book.” Damian informed them.

“Kind of like when you ladies helped Kitty send a bunch of guys to skulkers hunting preserve for a day for sexually harassing people, and abuse.” Danny said.

“That was fun. You stopped us though.” Ember pouted

“Well yeah, they’d have died after 24hrs, we couldn’t let that happen.” Danny said.

“You could, you just choose not to.” Ember challenged.

“Do you really want creeps like that as ghosts in the zone we are all stuck with?” Ellie asked.

“She has better points.”

“Killing is bad.” Danny and Jon said with different levels of seriousness.

“Batman has strict rules against killing. It is part of the reason there is tension between Hood and other vigilantes within our community.” Damian said. “I do believe there are times when a villain deserves death for their crimes, however I choose to follow my fathers path and leave those judgements up to the courts.”

“You’ve killed people.” Ember said, looking at Robin as the group moved. Cujo keeping close to their heels. Superboy petting the small glowing green dog.

“I have. I choose now to leave it only as an option in the most extreme cases.” Damian answered. “Does knowing such about me change your opinion of me?”

“Naw, I don't like to kill, it goes against my nature. But I do think some people deserve it. But ghosts killing humans makes us look bad. So I try to prevent it. Hood hasn’t killed a lot around me." Danny answered.

“My dad says all killing is bad.” Jon said.

“That’s why he’s called a boy scout.” Ellie teased. “You’re a cub scout.”

Danny and Ember laughed.

“Is this the same dog from the warehouse?” Robin asked, trying to pet the animal but his hand passed through.

“Yeah cujo can change sizes. Usually when he thinks someone is a threat. He’s pretty protective of what he thinks is his.” Ellie said. “Cujo is a good boy.”

“Is he your dog who passed away?” Jon asked.

“Uh no…” all three ghost kids said.

“Cujo is only my dog, cause he chose me and bonded. We are fraid. He bonded to duplicat too. But uh, I found him back in my hometown. He was a puppy who was being trained to be a security dog by a company there. They decided to change their business model to more modern security technology. And they uh got rid of their old stock.” Danny tapered off. Cujo coming up to all three young ghosts giving out kisses and head butts to lift their moods.

Robin had stopped and was holding his sword tightly. “Was Cujo the only animal that was put down?” he asked tightly.

“Probably not. He just happened to be the one who felt so strongly about life and having fun playing. Not everyone who dies becomes a ghost. You’re really upset.”

Cujo went up to Robin and yipped before licking his face too. “I am. I do not care for those who would abuse or harm animals.” Robin stroked the puppy’s head.

“That’s probably not illegal.” Jon said softly.

“It’s not.” Ellie said. “Doesn’t make it right though.”

“No it does not.” Danny and Robin both said.

“Babypop, you remember the stuff you were running around looking for before we left?” Ember asked.

“Oh yeah.” Danny reached into his chest and pulled out a bag “After the last fiasco, an agreement was made i could give you these. You just can’t let Batman or the league have them.” he opened the draw string and pulled out one of the com units. “These run on our ecto, so they don’t run out of juice. And it’s really hard to hack. I think only tuck and technus can currently. I can tag this one to your ecto signature Robin.” Danny held one out to him, the other taking it. Danny put his arm on him and pushed some of his ecto into Damian's and then into the ear piece. To Damian it felt like a static shock. “There, now only you can use that one.”

“Sorry cub scout, you ain’t death touched enough yet.” Ellie teased. “So don’t lose it.”

“I will make sure to take very good care of it.” Jon said, putting it on.

“These are a bit bulker than our own. But being able to bio tag their use is a nice feature we do not have.”

“I couldn’t really shrink them. But these also don’t get affected by ghosts so we can all use them.” Danny said Ember tossing her hair back to show off hers. “You figure out how to do what I did with your ecto yourself, you can turn it on and off that way too. No touching.”

Robin hit his new com. “Testing.”

“Guess you got it.” Hood’s voice came over the line.

“Hello mr. Hood sir.” Jon said into his com.

Ember cracked up. “Why are you calling the baby mr. anything.”

“I feed you, let you in my haunt and this is how you pay me back. I see how it is Ember.” Hood teased. “And please mr. Hood is my father.”

“I thought your dad was batman?” Jon asked.

“I thought it was fright knight?” Ember added. “Batman is your living dad? Or fraid dad?”

“Living dad Ember.” Hood sighed. “You kids doing alright?”

“We have had a quiet night so far. We are still in the Bowery. We are headed towards Otisburg. It is where we believe Toyman may be setting up shop.”

“Alright. Keep an eye out for more ecto-guns, and call me if you come up against anyone with them. Johnny and Kitty running loose?”

“Yeah, they had coms too. But I think they are gonna keep them off unless they need something.” Ellie said.

“Alright, Croc and Grundy are at their own places tonight but can get called easily too. Have fun. Be home by 1am if you plan to go to school, 3am at the latest.”

“That is all?” Robin asked for clarification.

“Yeah, I'm not the old man. You kids aren’t dumb, and you’re not alone. I got shit to do though.”

“I will do my best to prevent a recurrence of the warehouse.” Robin got out before Hood hit his com.

“That is much appreciated Robin. But that wasn’t really in your control.” Selina came on. “Everyone got home not too terribly worse than any other night out. We are headed out too kittens. Something came up. But still call in if you need anything.”

“Ok mom.” the kittens said as the com clicked.

“Let’s go scare some assholes.” Ember said cheerily.

*****************************************

“What do you want?” Selina said, climbing into her safe house. Ivy and and Harley nearby in case any of the other bats showed up.

“To talk.” Batman said.

“Well I'm listening and I don't hear much, so if it’s not that important…”

“Selina please,”

“Oh are we begging? Is that your plan? Tug at the strings hoping I'll unravel and drop little pieces for you to claw up?” Selina goaded.

“I want to help, I want to fix this.”

“Fix what exactly? I don’t have time for you to play coy Bruce.” Selina said his name sharply. He wanted to try and use her name to tug her heart strings, she’d turn it around on him. “I have children I need to be home for when they return.”

“Our children.'' Batman stayed in the darkened corner of the room.

Selina’s eyes narrowed at him. Fingers twitching at the tension in her body. “What makes you believe that?”

“I know, there is no reason to lie…”

“What makes you believe you have any right to call them yours?” Selina cut him off. She didn’t need his self righteous scolding. “They want nothing to do with you.”

“They don’t know I'm their father. You haven’t told them.”

“True, I don't want them hurt anymore than they have been. Why should I drop such a disappointment on them? They were such a big fan of yours as a small child. You’ve already let them down so much, why make it worse?”

“Help me fix this. I don’t want my children to fear me.”

“Then fix this mess! Protect them! Do something!” Selina threw at him tossing a hand with her words. “You haven’t done a damn thing but chase and terrorize them.”

“I’m trying, but more information would help. What dark brought forth isn’t everything, we have the laws, I'm still looking into the breakdown in the hot line. But we can make so much more progress if we work together. I know you have more intelligence on everything involving this.”

“Ah, yes, showing up to demand answers, how typical, why do any leg work.”

“Do Danny and Ellie have time for me to chase down leads, or do they benefit more from me and you sharing information and working towards a solution together?” Batman cut her off.

“There is no us working together on a solution Bruce.” Selina refused to play into his emotional trap.

“Why?”

“Because I don't share in your moral complexes. You want to correct the laws, close down the inhuman experiments, stop a war, maybe see a few top supervisors to jail. A few politicians lose their jobs. Maybe, I'm grasping at a few off the top of my head. These are assumptions after all on you having come to the correct conclusions. But that’s not all that I want.” she made sure to hold his eye contact face self assured and body posture confident. “I want justice for my children. For all the pain and suffering they put my little boy through. I want every single one of those monsters dead. And truly dead. I don’t plan to let them come back as ghosts. Though maybe i should. So they can face the same tests and experiments they put others through? To learn how wrong they were before they do face the same fate. It would be poetic don’t you think?” she sneered as he stiffened a bit and straightened his back even more things that would work on lesser Gotham rogues and goons, but not her. “Our goals could possibly be the same, our methods and solutions here will never align.”

“Do you want them safe in Gotham or safe anywhere?” Batman decided to ignore her plotting. The giw agents had given the commissioner an idea of possible body count. And considering the siren’s, it seemed rather low. So they were holding back whether she'd admit it. Or their defensive measures were working rather well. “Tearing down the systems that allow them to operate is going to do more in the long term. Dead agents just get replaced with another.”

“If we pile them high enough maybe some will think twice.”

“Or makes those left vengeful and fanatical.”

“You'd know from experience wouldn't you?” Selina snarked, taking a step closer. “We both know the fanatical ones are there already, and once they lose the legalities will just continue in the dark, arguably more dangerous. Cadmus? Task force x?” A thought seemed to cross Selina’s mind. “Killing them anytime the show their heads, which they do so easily seems to be a more secure plan.”

Batman let out a tired sigh, shoulders slumping. “I didn't come here to argue with you.”

“No? Just make demands and expect everyone to fall in line to your orders. Thought you'd learn by now this cat doesn't have a master.”

“I came to deliver something and ask for your help.” Bruce said a bit petulant.

“You need to work on your verbal skills, asking and demanding is such a fine line.” Selina crossed her arms. Bruce stepped to the side to show the pile of gifts wrapped in the corner. Selina just cocked her hip looking unamused at him. “Really? Where's your Santa hat?”

“I was informed that Daniel doesn't appreciate Christmas.”

“That's an understatement. And do not call him that. Ever.” Selina carefully moved around Bruce to look at the wrapped boxes. “Can I trust you if I ask if they are bugged?”

“It would be a waste of resources”

“Didn’t stop you from trying before.”

“Radio trackers work despite their powers. Easily hacked though.” He ignored her glare

She shot him while looking things over.

“Is this.” She gestured to the gifts. “To buy their trust? Or?”

“No.” There was a heavy pause between them. “I won't pretend to understand how magic works. I do try to reach out to those who know more than me. But I feel confident extrapolating minor causes and effects with a little information.” He met Selina’s gaze. “They are items I hope might assist them with their obsessions.” He took the head tilt as a good sign.

“Surprising. I thought you'd have a few stages to go through before acceptance.” Her posture relaxed minutely. But Bruce would take that little bit.

“I like to think I'm reasonable.” Selina snorted, she was so startled by the laugh. His frown deepened. Selina would call it a pout.

“There is nothing reasonable about any of this. Least of all you.” She pointed a finger into his chest now that they were closer. “You are too stubborn to be reasonable.”

“And you aren't?” He chuffed.

“I won't say that I am not, but I can confidently say I'm more flexible than you.” She walked her fingers up his chest purring the words.

“I'm trying to have a serious conversation with you.” Batman huffed. “I do need something from you for one of Ellie's gifts.”

“Oh?” Selina said with a bit of a tease draping her arms over his shoulders.

“An address to send a subscription.”

Selina looked less than amused at him. “Thought we were having a serious conversation?”

“I'm not asking for your location, just somewhere to send it. It could be this safe house.”

“It is compromised already. Which of your birdies let the cat out of the bag?” She frowned when Batman took her hands in his and held them at length as he took a step back.

“I'm not turning your wrath on any of my kids. You can be angry at me. I'm the one who figured it out.”

“You spied on the kids.” She gave him the same disappointed look she gives Harley when she goes overboard.

“I was monitoring…”

“Spying!”

“Them because communication is no longer reliable in the field for them.”

“It's not going to be any time soon if you keep this up. I want them to get to know and bond with their siblings. They are more comfortable leaning on other children and young adults, and those othered for support.” Selina shoved a sharp finger into his chest again. “Batman doesn’t qualify. And if they think the others know and aren’t telling them you are doing that they are going to cut them off. Do you want to alienate them further?”

“I want all of them safe in the field. None of them are without back up at the ready.” he argued. “Their physical safety is more important than their feelings.”

“That doesn’t work for my kids. The kittens’ emotions are arguably more important. They can survive and pop back from some gruesome injuries if they have no emotional attachment to it. If they are afraid of you, and you stab them, they are going to struggle healing from that, compared to a random gang banger running them over with a car could take mere hours to heal from. You can not push their feelings to the back burner like you’ve done to the rest of your poor brood. It’s why they all struggle to stick around you. Hood said dark was going to fill you in on the basics.” she walked away from him, hands squeezed into claws vibrating in front of her head. She whipped back around. “I won’t trust you with them.”

“These are things it would help if you shared. Dark’s files are incomplete. I don’t have a full picture. We can’t find a mole without a point of reference. They will spook and get away if they catch on. We are auditing the call logs long before we find the fail point. We might not be able to fix it for future issues. We need to rebuild our trust. We used to be able to rely on each other, even if our ideals and motives didn’t align, we knew we had each other to fall back on if we got in over our heads. Hood was reaching out more. Working with us, showing up at the mansion until now.”

“Are you trying to blame the kids?” Selina seethed.

“No, I'm saying we could work together and put our differences aside. And the enemy, our enemy poisoned our kids against the league. Against me and factioned us off. We are risking more playing into that divide. I need you to look past your protective mother instincts and look at the big picture.” Batman moved back into her space. “You know me well enough to know I would never hurt our children how they have been made to believe.”

“I know you well enough to know you don’t handle the unknown well too.” she put her hands on her hips looking up at him.

“Then help me understand.” Batman said softly. “So I can earn their trust back.”

“It’s not that simple. Their little hero team idolized you all. You let them down! You let me down.”

“Sirens and Hood I am requesting assistance.” Robin's voice came onto Selina’s coms. Along with sounds of yelling and squealing tires. Selina picked out the sounds of ectoblasts and barking too.

“Robin, we hear you.” “here kiddos!” Harley said at the same time.

“We need to go now.” Selina said heading out the window and down to the ground Harley and Pam already running down the fire escape Harley had transferred the coms to her speakerphone. Batman hot on their heels.

“We have captured a guys in white van. With an injured or multiple injured onboard. It is unclear from the pieces how many, and how many are going to make it. We are attempting to make an escape but are being pursued.” more yelling could be heard in the background.

The batmobile pulled up the door opening before it stopped. “Get in.'' Batman said, grabbing Selina’s arm before she could detour to her bike. Orphan dropped down from above right next to Selina’s bike grabbing the helmet. Harley wasted no time climbing in. Selina and Pam follow behind. “Get me a location.” batman said taking off down the streets of Brideshead. He headed towards Otisburg because that is where they had been patrolling regularly.

“Father? We are in the village.” Robin answered.

“What?!” Pam said. “You never leave the north island!” she hit the full coms. Which brought in a chorus of voices.

“Um, we kind of got told to.”

“Left! Your other left Ember!”

“Oh I didn't know kryptonian's could get motion sickness.” Jon’s softened voice came through

“Please keep your evening meal inside yourself Superboy.”

“Ooph, somebody find a button that turns on the ghost shield.”

“We will be trapped in here if you do that!”

“But it will stop the blasts from destroying the van!”

“Watch the road! I should have been the one driving!”

“Superman, you are needed in Gotham, call in league support on our current case.” Batman growled out. Before hitting his own com. “Oracle, can you get eyes on Robin's team?”

“I’m the only one old enough to drive! And I can phase.”

“I have spotty camera footage everywhere. Where am I looking?” oracle asked, frustrated.

“The village!” all three women shouted.

“These buffoons are shooting with no mind to civilians father! We need to get out of the major population areas. We also can now confirm that these weapons can cause injury to the supers.”

“Well start navigating!” Ember barked back. “shit!”

“Reverse!” several voices shouted.

“Everybody get down!”

“Schrodinger! Get in the vehicle.”

“Where did they get enough ecto to make your mom’s bazooka!” a sound of blast sounded followed by screaming and a crunch.

“I got a blurry video. 4 vans in pursuit of another driving erratically and it has a huge dent in the side and several scorch marks.” oracle said tapping in all bats. “Huntress and Nightwing are closest on their way to their direction. I can’t get into Robin or Superboy’s coms.”

“You got blown out of your shoes!” Duplicat could be heard laughing.

“This is not the time for joking!” Robin scolded

“On my way too! Coming from the heights, location now on.”

“I mean it is kind of funny. They are stuck half-phased in the window.” Ember also laughed. “We didn’t roll the van. Not too bad babypop.”

“I’m ok, I think.”

“I think you might have internal bleeding.” Jon said. “And a concussion.”

“Blood is still in the balloon, we are in good shape then.”

“You made your shield curved the wrong way.”

“Thanks Duplicat. I was trying to redirect it.”

“Took it like a bitch instead.”

“Turn right on Rochester street.”

“Where?”

“There, turn, turn! Turn!”

“Phase!!!!”

“Can we move the injured to your containment unit?”

“I only have 2. And they are full. It's not enough room.”

“They are aiming the big cannon gun again.”

“Can you phase the shot?”

“Phasing means nothing to ecto shots!”

“Got it!”

“You are already injured idiot!”

Another bang was heard. Followed by loud barking

“Kids!” Harley asked, a bit panicked. Cass passed the Batmobile and took off weaving more to get ahead of the bulkier Batmobile.

“That one went better! But Ember you need to start singing. We all need the boost. Thanks for the catch Cujo.”

“Can you kids get to toxic acres?” Pam asked. “Does Robin have a gas mask? The rest of them will be fine.”

“Will Superboy be ok?” Selina asked.

“I do. He can And I can direct us there!”

“turn!!!!!!”

“Nightwing and Huntress have made contact with the first van.

“That’s a building!”

“Hold on!”

“Superman, can you meet them there as a defense?” Batman bit out. His league com springing to life.

“On my way Batman. Wonder Woman in tow. Green Lantern and J'onn intend to meet us.

“Where the hell is toxic acres and I need directions from the 70’s.” Johnny came over the coms.

“Central island, between the harbor and Chinatown. Used to be a dump!” Selina said. “It’s a ghost town with upper middle income housing.”

“Try to lose them and phase the van into one of the empty buildings to hide.” Batman suggested.

“They have ghost detectors. We aren’t hiding.”

“Let’s sing cemetery drive.” Ellie said out of nowhere.

Ember snorted, a grinding metal noise coming through . “Hey, that worked.”

“Orphan and red Robin have made contact with the pursuers. Redirecting traffic as best as I can.

“Superboy is looking green.”

“He has ecto poisoning. We need somewhere we can decontaminate him.”

“An audience of two is not gonna get us enough ecto.”

“Shield's damaged. It won't turn on.”

“Dipstick if there are blob ghosts eat them. You are their heavy hitter.” Johnny came over the com. “It'll be quick and if you can't swallow just phase them into your stomach.”

“I hate this.”

“Kids, what about your supplies?” Selina asked.

“Used on the two shades in the thermoses. We have another shade in chunks.”

“Turn there.”

“Any blobs in good shape?” Kitty asked. “They can start sucking up ecto from the kid.”

“On it, but why aren't they shooting at us as much?

“The rest of the bats are engaged.” Batman said clearly for all to hear. “ the vans coming into view. Bruce hit the canopy. “Can I trust you 3 not to kill anyone? Or follow after them.”

“Following.” Selina said, standing with him to take the wheel.

Harley stood up. “I wanna play whack a mole.” her and jumped onto the van with batman. Selina turned off the auto pilot.

“Duplicat call Pharohtech. See if he can get us a live stream setup for Ember.”

“Technus is on this side, he can fix the shield.”

“Is that cannibalism?”

“It's like being a meat eater vs vegetarian comparison”

“Ember's boyfriend is a cannibalistic ghost.”

“You guys butt daily me?”

“We need a live stream for Ember. Somewhere we can force views. Using her as a fill up.”

“On it.” Tuck said.

“Take this Robin.”

“Wait Robin? What are you guys doing?”

“Who is this?”

“Pharohtech at your service.”

“We are running from the guys in white in one of their vans. Superboy has ecto poisoning.”

“He's our oracle.”

“Technus, we need Technus”

“Take the next left. There will be signs from here out.2 That say do not enter.”

“We found one not disintegrating. Have a pet cub scout.”

“Ember you're live.”

Ember started singing cemetery drive by my chemical romance

“Can't believe you let Ember drive. Follow us.” Johnny said, turning visible. “Is that black car with us?”

“That's me and Ivy. We have the Batmobile.” Selina answered.

“Robin is your gas mask on?” Pam asked.

“Yes.”

“Ghostboy! Oh my ancients!”

“Can you fix the shield?”

“Most certainly but are you all alright?”

“Most of this isn't ours I think?”

“That's not all that reassuring. But on it.”

“Middle of the neighborhood. The further they have to come in the worse it will be for them.”

“Can I help with anything else?”

“We have 2 separate coms running. Can you temporarily tie ours to Oracle's and get rid of the interference?”

“I'll work on it. But she isn't going to be happy if I hack her again.”

“Ask permission after you break in.”

“Park in that driveway, green house up ahead. Harley and I used to stay there. We have some supplies there if we need it.” Ivy said. The women block the van with the batmobile to make another barricade. Selina had on her own gas mask as they climbed out. Ivy immediately dropped seeds that sprouted and started spreading. Selina got to the cab seeing the front empty. She tried to open the doors to find them stuck. The sounds of slamming coming from the back of it.

Selina cracked her whip just to catch Superman's wrist.

“I'm on your side here.” he raised his eyebrow at her with a frown

“Are you?” Johnny asked, appearing with a growling shadow.

“My son is hurt.” Superman glowered.

“He is Superboy's dad.” Ivy informed him.

“Cub Scout is going to be fine. Last blob was to much for dipstick. He's trying not to puke. Doors are stuck.” Johnny told Selina.

“I got the doors.” Superman said removing the whip and then grabbing the doors and ripping them off, before he even tried to set them down he was tackled by a giant growling green dog.

“Cujo down! He's with us.” Cujo didn't move until the sounds of retching came from behind and then Cujo made his way to clean up both as Schrodinger and Superboy were leaning over the opening emptying their stomachs.

“At Least that last one isn't going to waste. “ Kitty said.

“Ghostboy shield is fixed when needed.”

“Thanks Technus.”

“Hi dad.” Jon said holding his stomach

“Hey sport, you ok?” Superman asked picking up his son carefully. Ignoring the green glowing blob attached to his arm.

“He has a burn and that creature is meant to remove radiation from the wound.” Robin answered.

“Kitten?” Selina asked, patting her son's hair from his face.

“M ok. Do you have more ectoshots?” Danny climbed out the van Ember was singing on the roof now.

“Yes, Selina said her and Pam got them out passing them along. Danny wiped his mouth with the back of his arm. Taking a few deep breaths.

“She ok?” Superman motioned to Ember while rubbing soothing motions on Jon's back.

“She's making ectoplasma. We need more to help this guy. Hopefully this is all him and not others. There is only one core left.” Johnny answered, helping Kitty move things around the table in the middle of the van. Technus was fiddling with tech in the truck. Watching as Kitty worked.

Ellie popped off the roof tossing Danny his shoes. He was quick to pull them on. Ellie Then flying into Selina’s arms. “We got connected and Oracle is mad!” came through everyone’s coms from tuck.

“What did you even do?” they all heard oracle seethe. “I’m going to find you.”

“Oracle, Pharohtech has patched our coms for the time being.” Robin addressed her.

“Who is Pharohtech?'' Batman's voice came over the coms.

“Is Superman there? We have lost his com link?” Wonderwoman came in.

“Yes, I'm here. It dropped when I got here.” Superman answered. “Where is this injured person? Can we help administer aid?”

“He’s my old team's Oracle.” Danny answered. “Let’s see if we can save this shade. Ember we need something fitting. I’m fired up.”

“We’ll cover why you kids work.” Pam said. Ember switching to some punk songs. Starting with I was alive by Beartooth. Cujo stayed large and alert guarding the area near ivy and her ever growing vines.

“I’d like a phone to start recording evidence, my tech won’t work.” Robin said. Selina tossed him hers.

“Look around hero.” Johnny scoffed as Danny came back in the van. “Where isn’t a piece of someone? Or do we not count because we are green?”

Selina knew when the message computed in his head, if the inside of the van was painted red in blood, it would be described as a blood bath. It looked like a slaughterhouse that got rolled over like a porta john in a tornado. The man of steel wrapping an arm around his son’s head and back away with a gasp.

“Superman?” Wonderwoman asked concerned.

“What’s green lanterns eta? Oh my god, all those containers…” Superman said. “Constantine and Zatanna can heal the supernatural, right? We need them here if we can.”

“On it.” Batman answered.

“Might be enough to limp this guy into the gz.” Johnny sneered. “You ok shrimp?”

“I’ll halfway survive.” he snarked. Growling at the containers that shocked him as they started ripping them open. Superman noticed the green hair girl had one hand cupped to her to her chest. As she moved around. A green liquid dripping from her fingers. After Danny opened the 3rd container he frowned. “I don’t think this is just these 3 shades.”

“We need to sort them.” Technus said taking the tech as they emptied them. Breaking them down to more usable components and safer ones. On a larger one, he disabled the shielding on it and passed it back. “This is safe now.”

“We need to get them to the ghost zone. If we take all of them to the zone they should be able to reform or fade in peace.” Kitty said. “This core is damaged.”

“Cujo is the only one here who can portal, and until he calms down and doesn’t think we are in danger he’s not going too.” Danny said.

“Then we all need to settle.” Ember said from the roof. “Let’s resonate.” She started playing a new song. If I ever leave this world alive by flogging molly. Putting her emotion into it. Floating out to be in view. Singing along in ghost speak and being joined by all the others. Even Cujo howled with them. Selina and Ivy sang along with all the ghosts, Selina rocking Ellie.

“Uh, should we join?” Superman asked. Wonderwoman landed next to him with a gas mask over her lower face too. Drawing eyes, but for the most part ignored. She took in the scene before her. A somber look on her face. Robin stood silently in vigil recording. Danny pulled out the 2 thermoses he had stored in his chest for safe keeping. Johnny picking them up carefully. Danny Kitty and Technus sorting through different blobs trying to match them up. Once Kitty was sure they had the correct one for the core, she pushed it into the largest chunk and Danny stuck it with all 4 ecto-shots he had left. The core giving off a small glow and hum to Clark's ears. Along with other beings now that he noticed. Once they finished that song, Ember started strumming harder and switched to hymn for the dead by anti-flag, circling around for the camera on the phone to take in the scene van.

Pharohtech’s voice coming in over their coms, along with a young woman’s.

Superman and Wonderwoman’s eyes turned as the green dog came and sat at the opening of the van.

“Good boy Cujo.” Danny reached over and petted his dog softly on the head. “I can’t go…”

“We got this dipstick. Least I can do after you did the same for me. And I was less of a mess.” Johnny ruffled his hair. “Kitty you got our puddle?”

“Yeah. I got him.” she answered. Johnny tossed the thermoses to shadow who put them in his bike. He scrapped the rest of the ecto globs into another dead container Technus handed him.

“We’ll drop these at your haunt Technus, not sure if you are ever coming back to it though.” Johnny teased.

“I will young whipper snapper. Once our ghostboy is ready to take his haunt.”

“You are going to be waiting forever.” Ellie whined.

Technus chuckled. “Then I shall wait. This realm has plenty to keep my obsession fed. And I can be ready for whenever our ghostboy needs. By the way, can I play with that vehicle now?” he pointed at the batmobile.

“I wouldn't batman might burst a blood vessel.” Ivy said.

“Did you steal it?” Johnny asked as he and Kitty got loaded onto his bike shadow helping hold the ghosts cargo.

“He let us borrow it.” Selina answered.

“He’s never let me borrow it.” Wonderwoman teased softly.

“You can fly.” Ivy answered with a roll of her eyes.

“Cujo, get them home safe ok?” said to his dog. “Walker catches you guys organize another jailbreak. We could probably use wolf’s help,”

“Yeah, got it.” Johny smiled. “Let’s go Cujo.” he revved his engine and Cujo barked, taking a running start before portalling and Johnny and Kitty following through on their bike. The tear closing behind them.

“Pharohtech,” Danny said. Before he continued he got cut off.

“Sorry I was late to the party and couldn’t help.” Sam's voice came through.

“Hey Nightshade.” Ellie perked up.

“I don’t hate that one. Beats Venus.”

“Hey!” Danny pouted. “Ugh sorry for waking you guys, you were probably just getting used to a decent sleep schedule.”

“Naw man, we are always here for you. Hey Technus you wanna jump back through the line? We can’t risk the guys in white snatching you up.”

“Or you trashing the batmobile and going crazy with new ideas besides that’s mine and Hood’s bonding activity.”

“Very well, party pooper. I’ll take up my post again.” Technus teased

“Appreciated.” Danny fist bumped him. Ellie and Ember followed suit as he made his rounds before phasing into the phone Ember was using.

“I cut the live feed. Ember you good?” Pharohtech.

“Yeah, I feel great. Thanks Technogeek.”

“You guys ok? Thought i saw Justice League in Ember's feed." Sam asked.

“Yeah, uh Superman is here and wonder woman.” Ellie answered. Danny cringed.

“Don’t worry they aren’t trying anything on my watch.” a new party came in. Red Hood with his guns drawn walked up from around the corner of another house block. “Sorry I missed the shit show,”

“We are not here to fight you Hood.” Wonder woman bit out to control her disappointment.

“Hood, they are here on father’s behest.” Robin scolded.

“Doesn’t mean I'm not prepared.”

“We got things here again. Go to bed and maybe dig out of Oracle's computer.”

“Wait will we lose the coms if he does?” oracle spoke up.

“Yeah. I can take out the patch in the morning. If you are ok with it?”

Danny looked at Selina who nodded. “Mom says that’s fine.”

“Got it. Call us this weekend so we know you guys aren’t fully dead.” Sam finished and the call ended. Ember passed Ellie her phone as she settled her feet back on the ground near Danny.

“You said someone told you to go to the village. Who?” Selina asked, holding out an arm and Schrodinger and Ember walked past the leaguers and Danny tucked into his mom’s side and Pam wrapped an arm around Ember.

“Grandpa.” Ellie and Danny answered.

“It was a glowing green sticky note with a riddle on it. Had they not claimed to know its origin I'd have suspected the riddler.” Robin said. “It was on the back of a gang banger we apprehended. It was signed c.w.”

“Grandpa sent you kids on a job at that exact moment huh?” Hood said moving between the leaguer and the family he was living with moving around till they all had their backs to the gory van.

“Yeah, that’s pretty standard for clocky. He understands more why he picks the timing he does. Hopefully it means we got to them in time.” Danny said tiredly.

“Cub Scout you feeling better?” Ellie called out.

“I don’t feel as nauseous anymore.” Jon said. “My arm hurts though.”

“I need to get him to the watchtower.” Superman said to wonderwoman and the others on the com.

“I will get a list of symptoms from Schrodinger of this radiation poisoning, though I believe that creature is the treatment.”

“Yeah. the blob ghost should be absorbing the ectoplama. As it heals from its injuries it should be able to remove it faster the more it eats.” Danny pulled out his phone and texted the info to Robin’s phone. “What do we do now? What happened to the others chasing us?”

“They are in custody by the g.p.d. And their equipment is being confiscated by the justice league for evidence.” green lantern said over the coms. “I’m headed to the watch tower now.” that seemed to startle Schrodinger and Ellie both squeezing closer to their mom. The roar of motorcycle engines reaching them. As they came into view on the empty street. Batman in the lead with Harley on the back of his bike. She didn’t wait for him to stop to hop off. Ember tucked in behind Ivy partially.

“Heya kiddos!” She wrapped Ember in one arm and Selina and the kittens in the other.

“Gangs all here. Let’s go, I got us a ride around the corner.” Jason said, moving them back.

“I have sent the video to my own phone.” Robin said coming out of the van and tossing Selina’s phone at Harley who caught it. “Your hand has regrown Duplicat.'' he pointed out.

“Yeah,” she waved it at him.

“Maybe we can talk, Constantine wants to come check on you guys.” Nightwing said, walking up, hands raised, voice slightly muffled by a gas mask.

“Tell him he can schedule a meeting with my receptionist between 9 and 5.” Danny said jokingly. But kept close to his mom.

“Kids are tired. Boy Scouts kid is hurt. We are splitting.” Hood said.

“Schrodinger is also injured. Or was, are you healing more rapidly?” Robin asked.

“Blobs helped. Even if i got sick. But uh not breathing helps a lot." Wonder woman looked more assessing over the boy at the words.

“How about we reconvene somewhere less open and hazardous.” red Robin asked.

Both kittens and Ember shook their heads no. “dudes are like pissed. We want no part of that. We just mellowed out.” Ember said a bit scared. Hood moved more directly in front of them.

“We aren’t mad at you. None of us are.” Nightwing tried to diffuse the situation.

“Didn’t you hear? It’s past their bedtime. So back off.” Harley said, voice going from higher pitched to slightly deeper and angrier.

“Superman go.” Wonderwoman said, directing him to tend to his son. When no one protested he took off. Robin made his way to stand at Batman's side.

“Kids can find the ride. Go,” Hood directed his group. “I’ll be right behind. With Ivy.”

“Come back to the cave with us for assessment.” Batman spoke up.

“How about no. And this one is ours. Ivy.” Hood responded.

All the vines Ivy had been growing began to engulf the van. Wonderwoman drew her sword.

“Stand down Wonder woman.” Batman called out to her. “We are on the same side here.” his eyes were on Harley and Selina though as they moved away with the children. All of them had disappeared from view when wonder woman drew her weapon.

“Maybe today. We'll be back for that. I expect it to still be there oldman.” Ivy turned and followed after the others. “Coms up if there is a emergency with Superboy. Outside that, leave us alone Tonight.” with those words Hood disappeared from view. Batman tensed in a way all the bat kids recognized.

“Batman…” Wonder woman softly addressed her friend.

“We need to reconvene at the cave for a debrief with the others on the watchtower. Are you injured Robin?”

“Minor scrapes and bruising. I am fine.”

“Anyone else? Huntress?”

“Can handle myself. Surprised you didn't completely blow this one. Congratulations on your sudden restraint. Later.” Helena took her leave on her bike.

“Are we leaving evidence behind?” Tim asked.

“Yes,” Batman sighed, “let's go. Wonderwoman, J'onn you can make your way there?”

Martian manhunter appeared before them. “Yes” wonder woman nodded and the two who could fly took off ahead.

Chapter Text

“How is Superboy's condition?”

“Treated for shock mostly, 2nd degree burn on his arm should heal up, it's not very large luckily. And Zatanna and Constantine do say that the green creature was treating the radiation. They treated the creature somehow so it could work more efficiently.” Superman answered. “Lois is pretty upset. And wants in on our case for the civilian side. And if we don't give it to her, I'm kind of scared about what she will do.”

“It's understandable that a mother is fierce in her protectiveness of her child. Your wife is a formidable woman.” Wonderwoman praised.

“Can Constantine or Zatanna get transportation earth side yet?” Nightwing asked.

“Any time one goes near the zeta tube it malfunctions. But some others are able to come and go. They think someone is keeping them up here.” Green Lantern answered. “Constantine keeps cursing a thing called time or clockwork.”

“The post it note, was signed c.w. The kittens said it was their grandfather, and he was also referred to as clocky.”

“So the kids' grandpa has access to the watchtower?” Green Lantern asked, concerned.

“Not directly, no” Batman answered.

“Their grandfather controls time,” Wonderwoman answered.

“What like a God? Is the government attacking gods?” Hal asked.

“No, God's answer to some of these beings.” Wonder woman answered from their previous meetings

“Their grandfather is distorting physics so the tubes won't work.” Nightwing said, “At Least that is my understanding of it.”

“Excuse me?” Red robin shouted, “how is their grandfather time, and are they gods?” Red robin paused. “Holy shit! They are! And you knew!” Red Robin tossed his notepad at Nightwing.

“They aren't gods exactly.” Nightwing blocked the pad.

“We are in the middle of a debrief,” Batman scolded. “Robin, you made your report. I think you need to go to bed.”

“But father!”

“You have school in the morning. And I'm sure Superboy and your friends will be wanting to speak with you first thing in the morning. you'll need your rest. You will have access to the reports in the batcomputer. Bed.” everyone was quiet as Robin seethed in his seat, finally getting up slamming his chair before storming off. Alfred followed behind to ensure he did so.

“Is there a reason you don't want the kid involved?” Hal asked.

“History of attempted fratricide.” Red Robin answered.

“Rr!” Superman winced looking behind him.

“Isn't that like where royals try to off their siblings for the throne?”

“Come on there ya overgrown light bulb. Connect the dots already so I can be done with this bloody fucking hex.” Constantine snapped.

“That's how you kept him quiet?" Steph asked Nightwing who just shrugged

Hal just stared at Constantine. “What?”

“It just means to kill one's siblings.” Superman gave him a bone.

“Batman.” Wonderwoman said, concerned.

“Robin tries to kill his siblings…”

“Some of the children who are part of this case are Robin's siblings apparently, and the boy doesn't know it.” Wonderwoman stated since she had no interest in waiting on the men to piece it together. Green Lantern was missing the context of Bruce's dating history.

“Seriously, how many kids do you have? Do you know how condoms work?” Hal asked bewildered.

That got a round of laughter from all the robins. And Constantine a small snicker.

“Enough.” Batman said.

“I would hope so, but you keep showing up with more.” The group laughed harder. Even Superman and Wonderwoman chuckled.

“He was telling his kids enough. As in stop.” Clark informed Hal. With a snicker.

“Oh,” Hal said. “So how many of these new kids are yours? And why is the government shooting at them?”

“This information was in the report I sent you last week.'' Batman glared at the video message.

“Yeah, not gonna lie, I haven't read it yet. I skimmed the first page, something about a government agency attacking interdimensional creatures and bad laws." Batman just quietly glared at Hal. “I’ve been busy!”

“The United States government has passed laws declaring an entire species from another dimension as non sentient and sanctioned an organization to capture, experiment and destroy any member of the species. Of the group who were with Robin and Superboy when we caught up to them, 3 teens and one adult and a dog matched the visual description of this species from the reports. 2 other teens and red hood, another of Batman's brood though didn’t match the visual qualities, they spoke similarly to the others.” J’onn answered Hal's unspoken question. “They also had a familiarity. The two older teens and dog left back to their own dimension it seemed. The adult being left through a cell phone. The younger of the teens left with the more human looking teens red hood, and some of Batman's rogues.”

“Former rogues.” Nightwing spoke up.

“Not at this rate.” Spoiler said kicking up her feet.

“What do you mean they spoke similarly?” Bruce asked J'onn.

“Probably has to do with that weird humming from their chests. They all synced up when they were singing. Same with the dog.” Clark said. “It was really eerie.”

“I was speaking of their strong empathic communication. It is very similar to my own. If not stronger, "J'onn clarified. “The humming sound might be related to how they do it. They do not guard it or hold it back at all. And they are able to emotionally communicate with each other, even if their spoken language is different. I was picking up simple concepts as well. They were singing with this other language as much as their voice. They even harmonized their emotions. They were all in different levels of turmoil. Lot’s of anger, pain, fear, loss, hurt, regret, even more complicated forms of these emotions. As their singing progressed they shifted to a strength in bond, a peaceful unity, a calming goal. The dog was even able to meet them. He was angry, protective and fearful. And his own emotion turned to theirs. It was very emotional. It took much of my control to not out myself and reach out with my own." J'onn looked at Batman, “I do believe they have a stronger ability to feel emotions. They picked up on all of yours when you arrived. And they immediately shifted. I hardly pick up on yours Batman. They are so well shielded. They picked up the anger from the group as a whole and they became fearful.”

“It’s because they are literally made of emotions. Most lesser ones and some like ‘em can even feed off emotions. Gives ‘em power.”

“These interdimensional beings are made of emotion?” Hal asked.

“Such a mouthful. Let’s just call ‘em what the kids call themselves. The yanks are going after ghosts.”

“Ghosts…” Hal said.

“Can we swap this lightbulb for a brighter one? Not the redhead.” Constantine asked.

“hey!”

“The weapons they are making are dangerous if they can damage kryptonians.” Superman said.

“And they had no issue with discharging them around civilians. We were lucky there were no casualties.” Wonderwoman stated.

“How are they even seeing ghosts to shoot at them? Don’t you need magic to do that?” Hal asked. “Most of us can’t see Deadman unless you hocus pocus guys do something.”

“These are much more powerful than Deadman.” Constantine said.

“Ok so ghosts, and some of them are Batman’s oohhh.” Hal cringed. “Oh I'm so sorry for…”

“Please don’t we can’t handle him in a worse mood than he is.” Spoiler bemoaned cutting off Hal. Red robin and Nightwing cringed.

“His lot are livelier than most ghosts. And I'm only using that term for simplicity's sake, cause they do. I don’t think you are bright enough to comprehend what they actually are.” Constantine said.

“You believe those kids are gods.” Wonderwoman said sharply to draw Constantine's attention.

“Gods are beneath these guys, their grandpa is more powerful than Chronos ever was.” Constantine addressed the question. “And his little nippers are too young to understand what they are. And as stubborn as their dad. How bad were they off?”

“Robin reported Duplicat had regrown her missing limb, so might be better off. Schrodinger suffered injuries.”

“And he got sick from eating blob ghosts.” Superman said.

“Are they cannibals?” Hal asked.

“No, blob ghosts would be like eating chicken. And poor kid, must have been bad for him to do that." Constantine said. “Kid’s there version of a vegetarian. he puked cause of emotional distress.”

“The teen on the motorcycle said the one named Ember’s boyfriend is a cannibal.” Superman cringed.

“That doesn’t seem like a sound dating partner.” Hal mumbled.

“Who’s Ember? And how many were there? Should be 3?” Constantine said.

“The kittens have some friends over from the other side.” Nightwing gave a smile to John.

“8 total.” J'onn answered. And watched the man pale and grab his hair.

“Oh bloody fucking Christ!” John started pacing.

“3 went back.” Cass said, trying to calm the man.

“Only his three should be on this side of the veil! There is a reason they do not form here!” Constantine said.

“They were here to help the kittens heal.” Nightwing answered a bit harshly. “Something about their obsessions are easier to fulfill and can make ectoplasma to share.”

“Ectoplasma? Like ghostbusters? That’s a real thing?” Hal asked.

“Yes, and it appears to be the reason for the government's focus on them. They are being harvested as a power source. For these weapons and possibly other devices.”

“Are they not fulfilling their obsessions? Your brood bats?” Constantine asked with concern. “That can be concerning. Do you know what their obsessions are? I didn’t ask.”

“I do and My understanding is not efficient. And they will continue to have that issue for sometime.” Batman answered. “I’d like a more detailed report on obsessions and on my children’s biology.” batman said gruffly. “Their needs aren’t currently being met properly, and it needs to be corrected.”

Constantine stared at him before looking at Nightwing before looking back to bats. “I can do my best, but that’s a bit tricky. Your kiddos are something new, rare. Mythological.“

“Isn’t mythological your expertise?” Hal asked.

“No mate, they are myth to our lot too.” he pulled out his flask to take a drink. “But is momma cat on board? You two kiss and make up? Or am I going to have a very angry group of women up my arse?”

Red Robin was rubbing his head now. “We were trying to build up trust tonight. That got interrupted with all this.”

“It might have improved it.” Batman countered. “We were able to work together and no one attacked each other.” Wonder woman gave him a look.

“They were very frightened when they left and tired it seemed. The women were rather annoyed and defensive but their anger was much more reserved.” J'onn answered.

“Is this a bitter ex’s thing?” Hal whispered to Superman who cringed.

“Don’t ask.” Superman whispered back.

“Did you put the evidence in the secure storage on the watchtower?” Batman asked.

“Yeah. the one with only top clearance. I didn’t need the report for that.” Hal stated.

“I expect it to be read by the time of our meeting tomorrow.” Batman said.

“Roger that.” Hal deadpanned.

“Superman will you be able to take Superboy home?” Batman asked.

“Kid’ll be fine, keep that blob will clean him up.” Constantine said.

“Is the blob ghost safe to bring home?” Superman asked.

“Of course those things are a dime a dozen here. When it’s done feeding it might scamper off. Or kids got a new pet. Should be fine.”

“Should be?” Wonder Woman raised a brow at him.

“If it’s not he’s hanging out with the bat’s brood and they can handle it.” John answered.

“Then yes I can take him home. And Lois might be placated why she mother hen’s him.”

“I think that’s gonna be you.” Red Robin said.

“Yeah, Lois is gonna be hunting.” Spoiler said a bit manically.

Clark just shook his head. “I’m going to get my son home now.”

Batman nodded. “We will dismiss for now. Be prepared by reading all the reports for tomorrow. Including tonight's. Constantine, when you and Zatanna can leave the watch tower I expect you to meet with me.”

“Sure thing. Love to now that I don’t got a bloody fucking tongue tie.” and John cut the feed from there end before Hal could say anything.

“Your children batman?” Wonderwoman asked.

“I wasn’t confident in the determination originally.” Batman said.

“I do believe congratulations are in order per human customs.” J'onn said to batman.

Red Robin lifted his head to look at Martian manhunter at that. “Oh, yeah, that would be the normal thing if there was a normal baby announcement.”

“Say thank you Batman.” Nightwing smirked at his dad.

“Thank you J'onn.” Batman gruffed out.

Spoiler snorted and Cass gave him a thumbs up.

“Do the… kittens know?” Wonderwoman asked with a frown. “That you are their father?”

“No.” Batman answered.

“There is concern since they are afraid of Batman turning them over to the guys in white, if they find out before there is some trust built that they might run and be at risk. They had a foster family before that was the scientist who pioneered this ectoplasmic technology that is being used. And it’s the reason that we even get the opportunity to know them. “ Nightwing gave some context. He was more knowledgeable.

“They died in the care of these scientist?” Martian Manhunter asked. “Was it intentional?”

“Um Duplicat was created already as she is. She’s clone adjacent like Kon.” Red Robin answered.

“Neglect. Schrodinger’s death was neglect. But it’s considered very bad manners to ask about their deaths.”

“Is it ok if we dig it up ourselves?” Red Robin asked.

“Oh my gawd RR can you not leave anything?” Steph groaned.

“What do you have?” Batman asked.

He flipped around his tablet. “This look like the kid on the motorcycle they called Johnny?”

“It does, this young woman also looks like one of the teens.” J'onn noted pointing at the girl's picture in the photo. “These are the two who left with the injured and dog.”

“Johnny and Katherine.” Dick read out sadly. “Died June 17th 1974 in a vehicle strike.”

“The truck that hit them was a drunk driver.” Tim added. “I found a rap sheet for Johnny, nothing major, typical troubled teen. And domestic violence call logs on both their households before they died. Katherine or kitty was reported missing 24 hours before their deaths. They were hit in the village.”

“Where they were sent to find the GIW.” Steph pointed out. “And they were collecting ghosts.”

“Or at least running their experiments.” Wonderwoman stated.

“Noteworthy.” Cass said.

“We will run investigations there.” Batman said. “And pass this along to Catwoman, I'm sure it will be best to keep them out of the area.”

“Would you like me to stick around for dealing with the political heads when they start asking for their equipment back?” Wonderwoman asked.

“That would be ideal.” Batman said. He turned to Martian manhunter. “I’d also like you to be nearby and make note of anything passing you can pick up to add to wonder woman’s report.”

“Very well. It will be my pleasure.” J'onn answered.

Chapter Text

“What's all this?” Ellie asked looking at the pile of presents in the living room.

Selina seemed to mull it over before choosing how to answer. “These are gifts from your father.”

Jason cursed from the kitchen.

“Dad had all this shipped from Amity?” Danny asked surprised, picking up a gift. Ember picked up one shaking it.

“No sweetheart, your bio father. Not Jack.” Pam answered. Grundy, Harley and her had collected the giw van and the gift packages this morning while the ghosts slept in. It had been a long night of being woken by nightmares.

“Bio dad? The one you said was going to find out about us eventually?” Danny asked.

“Is this a bad thing? Are they a bribe?” Ellie asked, putting down the box she had picked up.

“He said they were given freely.” Selina sat down on the couch with the kids. “And that I didn't have to share with you that they were from him, but I'd prefer not to lie to you.”

“Is he going to use this as an excuse to take us away from you?” Danny asked.

“Their dad would do that?” Ember asked.

“I spoke with him, and did my best to convey the seriousness of him just throwing himself at you. I'm hoping he takes it to heart. But with him you never know.” Jason was staring them down from the kitchen clenching his fists at the island. “But if he does and you don't want to deal with him for any reason. Come straight home ok? But he does want you to have all of this. He seems to have also gotten wind of your hobbies as it were. So I know you will like them.”

“Go ahead kids. Why let it go to waste.” Harley said noticing they didn’t jump right into opening things.

“This one has Ellie's name on it.” Ember said, passing over the gift. Ellie turned the box over looking at it.

“Ellie, you can just tear the paper off.” Jason said from his place in the kitchen, watching carefully.

“Won’t that mess up the gift?” Ellie asked.

“Oh she’s never gotten a wrapped gift before.” Danny said. “We always just give her stuff.”

“Ya joking?” Harley nearly launched herself over the pile. “A demonstration is in order!” Harley dug through the pile and pulled up a box tossing it at Danny. “Show ya girl how it's done! Tear it to shreds!”

Danny laughed, and though he didn't make a show of it, he did not take care in removing the wrapping paper to reveal the goodies inside. But he did freeze up at the sight of a moon phase's projector night light that awaited him after its removal. Just staring at the box.

“That's pretty cool. You don't have a moon painted in your room .” Ember floated over to him. Looking it over without touching it.

“I don't.” Danny said softly, a bit soft and strangled. “How…”

“Your old man is just like that. Don't think about it to much or gets creepy stalker feeling.” Jason answered roughly. But he could feel the whirlwind of emotions coming from the kid. The elation/joy/fear/how/love/toomuch/confusion/hurt he tried to meet it with his own calm/safe/love/enjoy/yours/deserve. “It’s ok, the ladies wouldn’t have given you any of that if it wasn’t safe. Just enjoy it.”

Danny and Ellie were looking at him carefully. Before Danny’s eyes went back to his gift. “I just don’t understand. This… it’s…” Danny took another pause. “He’s never even met me. But this is… it’s not just something, it’s… I like it. It’s something I actually like and enjoy and meaningful. Not a coffee mug or school supplies or clothes… I don't understand… why?” Danny rubbed his face across the back of his arm to try and remove the tears. “He’s never met me but he put in effort like…”

“Like he cares. He does care. In his own way I'm sure. But he doesn’t have a great track record for showing it in a healthy way to anyone in his life.” Ivy supplied for the kids. “He can be overbearing. It’s why Selina tried to keep him away from you for so long.”

Ellie copied Danny’s method and opened her own first gift. It was a map of the United States showing all the different national parks with slots to stick souvenirs from each one in it for display. And space next to each to fill in a description of the item. Ellie’s emotions quickly matched Danny’s own. “Is he stalking us somehow? How does he know these things about us?”

“He just has his ways to find out things. If I thought he was an immediate danger to you we’d be getting out of town now.” Selina answered. “His words and actions when this was brought up, I don't believe he’s going to try and hurt you outright from our conversation. Not physically, but emotionally…”

“His track record sucks.” Jason cut in.

Ember looked between the two, “let's open the rest and decide what to do with all of them.”

“I'm keeping this.” Both kids said hugging their gifts to their chests.

Jason and Harley snorted. “Nobody's taking your shit.” Jason said.

“Go on, open the rest “ Harley wadded up the wrapping paper and tossed it at Ellie's head. And smacked the bow to Danny’s hair. “Lets see what cha got.”

Ember started grabbing packages and sorting them sticking them by each of her friends while they opened. Before Ellie and Danny were getting hung up on their gifts and Ember just started opening them and setting them with their person. It took them all day to get threw everything. But by the end of the gift opening they had some very quiet and calm children. Which was giving the adults some concern. Selina looking to Jason for some insight. He gave a so-so motion.

“How are you kids feeling?” Ivy asked as Danny Ellie and Ember were assembling his new telescope and one of their new travel documentaries was playing on the tv.

“Is our dad a crazy rich fruit loop?” Ellie asked. Spinning her new globe around stopping it with her finger and reading off the name of where it stopped. Different countries on it were inlaid with different stones and minerals found in each country and it was rather large.

Selina cringed a bit looking to the others for opinions on how to answer that. But Jason beat them all to it. “Yes.”

“With overbearing stalker tendencies.” Danny asked not looking up from making adjustments on his telescope.

Jason snorted. “Yeah.”

“Jason.” Selina said in warning.

“Why lie? Call it like you see it kids.” and Jason burst out laughing. He was obviously getting more context than the ladies.

“Really mom?” Danny finally asked, looking at her.

“I didn’t know at the time, alright. Don’t look at me like that.” Selina pouted.

“Is he a creep to you?” Ellie asked, a bit of judgment in her own tone.

“Kids you’re to young and unqualified to psychoanalysis your mothers dating habits.'' Harley scolded. “You leave that to the professionals like myself. “And he’s less of a creep now most of the time.”

Selina threw a throw pillow at her. “I feel so judged right now!” Selina teasing bemoaned. Tossing more throw pillows. Danny phased his telescope to protect it. But laughed at the antics.

“I’ll hold her off!” Ember said tossing the pillows back. “Protect the breakables!” Danny and Ellie laughed flying up a bunch of their gifts to to their rooms and coming back with several plushies and pillows to expand their arms.

Finding the mood lifted Jason went back to prepping food while they had their pillow fight. Longer it went on the more the trepidation and fear left the kids mood.

*********************

After lunch the kids cuddled up with their mom and their aunts watching tv while Jason went out to do some gang work. “Ember when you got to get back to the ghost zone?” Ivy asked.

“I don’t really need to get back except to keep anyone from tracking me down. But I have to wait till Cujo makes it back. And I kind of want to wait till after Hanukkah is over if that’s ok? I like hanging out here with you guys for the holiday. It reminds me of my family when i was alive.” she pulled at the tassels on one of the pillows.

“That’s perfectly fine kiddo. As long as it’s not bad for your health.”

“It’s not. But you need to build another portal. Or learn to open them” Ember bemoaned.

“I’m not sure on the portal, but man it would be so much easier if I could make them.” Danny whined.

“Should we like thank him or something?” Ellie asked out of nowhere.

“Thank who kitten?” Selina asked.

“Our dad. For the gifts?” she said looking up from their show on Australia's great barrier reef.

“How would we even do that?” Danny asked.

“If he’s like Plasmius do you really want to?” Ember asked.

“Even the fruitloop has his moments he was worthy of a thanks.” Danny scoffed. “He did help Sam and Tuck bust me out of that lab. But its the how without giving them ideas about where they stand.”

“We can send him a little video message if ya want.” Harley said. “Ya mom, she’s got his number right?”

“If that ok?” Ellie asked.

“It is. But you don’t have to thank him if you don’t want to. He’s not obligated to get anything in return for his choice to get you gifts.” Selina answered. “But if you want to we can do that.”

“Yeah let’s do that. I don’t want to be rude. He might feel like he can scold us if we don’t rich old people are demanding like that.” Danny said with a nod. “We need the scrambler so we can get a clear video.”

“I can get it.” Ember said flying off to collect the tech from Danny’s room.

“You two sure you want to do this?” Selina asked. “And he’s not that old. He is around my age.”

“Yeah. but you’re kinda old too mom.” Ellie said.

Harley and Pam cracked up laughing.

*************************************

“Is Superboy doing ok?” the kittens and Ember asked nearly barreling into Robin for patrol after their menorah lighting. Nightwing was with him.

“Yes Superboy is doing well. He is resting tonight. Are you three well?” Damian asked, assessing them.

“Yeah we kinda had a weird day, but we are doing really good cause of it.” Danny answered.

“What was weird about it?” Nightwing asked.

“Our dad sent us a bunch of gifts for like Christmas or something, or Hanukkah? Do you get gifts for Hanukkah? We hadn't gotten any other days. And they were really good for our obsessions.” Ellie said.

“I don't think so…” Ember and Danny answered the question.

“Some people give gifts for Hanukkah in America, but not everyone does.” Nightwing answered.

“What is weird about your other parent sending you gifts? Is this parent a partner of Catwoman’s?” Damian enquired. Dick was internally starting to panic a little.

“I mean it's mom's ex, but it's weird cause we've never met him. And like these were very specific gifts where they'd have to know a lot about us.”

“Maybe Catwoman shared the information?”

“Mom wouldn't do that. She said didn't want us to meet our dad because he might be unsafe. So he's like had to stalk us or something. Its kind of creepy. Even if we really like our presents.”

Damian seemed to take in that information. “Is Catwoman your biological mother?” Damian asked. “And the man in question is your biological father?”

“Yeah.” The Dannies answered.

“He knows that.” Ember said gesturing to Dick. Which got a glare from Damian.

“What of these parents you spoke of that would build weapons to use against you?” Damian asked.

“That was my adoptive parents. But I didn't know that till my mom came and got me. My dad called her after I told them about uh my ghost powers. My adoptive mom didn't want me anymore. That's how I found out I was adopted.” Danny wrung his hands a bit.

“Batman has an extensive file on Catwoman, I'm sure it includes her previous partners, I could easily find your birth father to give him a warning about stalking you. It is wildly inappropriate for him to make you uncomfortable.”

Dick was screaming on the inside on one hand, Damian being so protective was adorable. And he was happy he siblings were on such good terms. But Damian could not find out this way, but also the hilarity of Damian wanting to punish their stalker father by using his stalker files was just… their other siblings were going to loose it.

“He's some rich fruitloop. Which we kind of attract rich stalking and abusive fruitloops.” Danny waved him off. “We handled it already with a message.”

“Yeah my mom’s one.” Ellie answered nonchalantly.

“Who have an issue with being told they aren't my dad. Wow saying that out loud, that seems pretty weird to happen twice…” Danny said with a frown.

“Sounds like that Fenton luck you were always bemoaning.” Ember pointed out.

“But was I actually cursed? Did I still or do I still count?” Danny asked.

“I don't have it. Maybe Jack cursed you by taking you as his son. It's not a blood thing. It's a name thing.” Ellie answered.

“Fenton as in the weapons the giw are using?” Damian asked.

“Oops.” Ember said as the kittens looked a bit panicked.

“Please don't share that!” Danny and Ellie both asked at the same time.

“I… that is important information for our investigation…” Damian looked conflicted.

“We already know that.” Dick jumped in for the save. “Constantine got that information from hood and shared it.”

“With the league?” The ghosts all asked floating back. Damian was also looking at him expectantly.

“The information is only with a select few and their relationship to you was not in the reports outside the bats.”

“It is not even In our files. For I make myself informed of all updates to it.” Damian glared at his oldest brother. “Therefore it is not even universally known among our group.” Dick now had the problem of Damian knowing he was being kept out of the loop. Now he had to warn the rest of the family. Great. This was not going to help the deliberation of if Damian will stab his new siblings once he finds out, if he's threatening to stab the ones he has for information.

“Well as fun as this has been I really need to start patrol, I'm covering for orphan and spoiler while they run ops over the giw. And you guys were working on a case right? In Otisburg? You guys are staying on the north island tonight right?” Nightwing asked with faux cheer.

“Yeah. Gotham is definitely warning us from leaving.” Ember answered.

“Gotham…”

“They have spoken of the city as being a entity like themselves.” Damian answered. “They struggle with communication but have some exchange of information. Though limited.”

“right of course. I'm gonna leave you four to it. All the birds have the new coms you gave out. So we can back you up if you run into trouble.”

“Not batman.”

“Nope he doesn't, you are all good. Be safe, have fun.” And with that Dick fled with his tail tucked. Before calling oracle and asking if she got any of that or if she could even record from Danny’s coms.

***********

“Is he ok?” Ember asked Damian as Nightwing left.

“He knows he and my siblings will taste my wrath for withholding information from me.” Damian glared after Nightwing. “Shall we continue our investigation?”

“Sure, but do you think we put some distance between us/ you can text me a picture of this Toyman guy we are looking for?” Danny asked.

“Yes, knowing what our target looks like would be beneficial, but I assure you it will be obvious when we locate him.” Damian answered.

“Yeah but our phones work around ghosts. And if we have a picture we can just ask other ghosts if they have seen the guy.” Ellie countered.

Damian stared at her. “How long has that been an option?”

“Since we gave you our number?” Danny answered.

“And they need me for the ectoplasma so we can juice up the local shades. They didn’t have enough to share before with the healing and stuff.” Ember added.

“I will do that now. I will continue on our route, and once I am able I will send it. Once you receive it, move to my location.”

“Sure.” the three answered.

****************************************************

Bruce stared at the message sitting in his inbox. Oracle had verified it was from the Selina and wasn’t a virus in the attachment. He was alone in his office to watch it a bit unsure of what reason or the contents of a video from them would be. His list of possibilities was a bit extensive. But he steeled himself for anything as he hit the button to start the video. He might not have been as prepared as he thought though as two nervous little faces appeared on his screen.

“Uh, hi. I’m Danny.”

“Ellie, gramps.”

“We, uh got the gifts you sent us. Mom told us they were from you.”

“She didn’t tell us who you were, and we aren’t really asking.” Ellie added. “Don’t care either. But thanks for them. I’ve never gotten a present all wrapped up like that before. But destruction for destructions sake is fun sometimes. I like that.”

“I really appreciate mine too.” Danny said he’s cheeks taking a bit of a green hue. “They were all um really helpful. Not sure if you know that or not. But even though this is a thank you message…”

“We are establishing boundaries.” Ellie looked off camera. “That’s the right thing right?”

“That is the correct phrasing, yeah.” Harley could be heard off camera.

Danny rolled his eyes. “This is a warning. Back off. We don’t know how you know those things about us, but we don’t appreciate stalking, spying or imposing rich guys who want to play dad to us because they think they have the right cause they have money.”

“Yeah, we have enough of that already we don’t need another one.'' Ellie added. “And he’s at least direct about being a creep.”

Danny snorted. “Yeah, but we do have manners, so thanks for the gifts, but please don’t do it again. We don’t know you, and you know way too much about us.”

“Don’t know how you are creeping on us, but we don’t like it. So don’t do it anymore.” Ellie stared into the camera. “When you got the guts to show your face around here then maybe it’ll be less weird. But thanks too.”

“Bye.” Both of them waved at the camera as the video ended.

Bruce held his face as he went over and processed the more disturbing information in the video. And the conclusions the kids drew from what little info they were either told or deduced. But he can’t say he watched it on repeat as much as he did just for that reason. If Alfred caught him just staring at the frozen frame of his kids he was kind enough to keep it to himself.

******************************

“Schrodinger? Can I speak to your mom?”

“Uh sure… hang on. Can I ask who this is and why you have Superboy's phone?”

“I’m his mom. This is Schrodinger right?”

“Yeah.” Danny replied. “Is he ok? We missed him tonight.”

“He’s doing a lot better. Thank you for asking. He’s been texting you.”

“Yeah but friends lie when they are hurt cause they don’t want you to worry.” Danny answered as he made his way to the living room where his mom and aunts were still up.

“You know from experience don’t you kiddo.” Lois teased. “My husband doesn’t like when his friends do that either. But i can assure, the supers are made of a little stronger stuff. He’s going to be up and at’em with you tomorrow. Think you can do me a favor and keep my little man out of trouble in the future. Supers aren’t used to things being able to hurt them. And if men are children about pain. Supermen are babies.”

“Really?”

“Yes, they have no understanding of pain. For future reference. Don't forget your mom.”

“OH yeah, mom Superboy's mom is on the phone for you.” Danny handed his phone over.

“Thank you kitten.” Selina took the phone from him. “You getting to bed with your sister and Ember?”

“Yeah they were still in the bathroom. Ember was trying to make new pajamas tonight but didn't like any of Ellies for reference.”

“Alright, try to get some sleep okay. Love you.”

“Goodnight kiddo.”

“Good night everyone.” and Danny floated back up through the ceiling to his room.

“Do we know why sometimes they decide to use doors and stairs and other times they don’t yet?” Pamela asked refilling their wine glasses.

“Hello,” Selina said into the phone.

“Selina, it's Lois.” the woman said. “I want in, on whatever you are doing.”

“Lois.” Selina grabbed her head with a sigh and put the woman on speaker phone. “The Justice league…”

“Screw the league. Screw my husband. This has nothing to do with them. This has to do with hurting my son, and apparently yours,” Lois took a deep breath. “And sorry I threatened to ground Jon, and told Clark, Luthor and Bruce aren’t the only ones who can get kryptonite around here. And I’d pass him off to his mother after I’m done if he didn’t tell me what the fuck was going on.”

“I’m sorry Jon got hurt. We didn’t know the weapons could hurt supers.” Selina gave her condolences. “And we hadn’t spotted any giw in the area the kids were supposed to be at.”

“That isn’t your fault.” Lois said gently. “It’s only this group's fault. And some politicians. And if my past work is anything to go off of some shady businessmen all in cahoots. And I'm not sitting on my ass while the league drags its feet getting on the same page.”

“We haven’t exactly been sharing with them our tidbits' ' Harley pitched in. they weren’t here to start fights in others relationships. At Least not without planning it.

“That’s not your job though is it? And what I've dragged out of Clark, this has been going on for some time. He dropped the ball, our son got hurt, I'm stepping in now. He knows to stay out of my way.”

“Love a woman who knows what she wants and takes command.” Pam teased.

“Sorry ladies, 3’s a crowd, and I'm not even sure what number you are at.” Lois teased back. “But seriously, give me a bite to hunt down. Who do we need to destroy to get these weapons off the street and beat back these stooges hurting our kids?”

“We can’t just send you out on this. Weapons aren’t the only issue, you’d need a whole kit of tech to keep their victims from lashing out at you too. Or even to have any of your own tech to work. Phones, recording devices, cameras. None of that is going to work around this other tech well, or around their work.”

“I heard ghosts? Guessing copying youtubers kits isn’t going to work out for me?” Lois said.

“No. But my son builds and modifies a lot of tech to work. Got an older phone you can send with Jon? And unfortunately you are going to be getting a very ugly belt that is a must. You can’t just jump in Lois. There is a lot of prep and we don’t have all the cultural nuances that can put you in danger. Not including the human ones. You can be in danger. They can arrest you for interfering or worse. They don’t seem to care if they kill people in the process. Pretty sure getting you killed puts me more on your husband’s shit list.”

“I can handle myself. Threats on my life are something we are used to. And I handled myself pretty well even before I was with Clark. Now I have three of them that come running at the first little hiccup. I barely even get a chance to handle it myself anymore.” Lois paused. “Will this modified phone be secure? Can we pass information?”

“Yeah we can get you a little bit caught up. But a nice start up your alley might be the laws, Pam has a full document of all of them and all the collections of bills where each piece maybe you could hunt down who proposed these and how they passed. They were split up among a lot of different bills.”

“Wouldn’t mind finding the guy who got all this legalized, you know. Give ‘em a chat.” Harley added.

“Oh I can do that. With pleasure.” Lois said. “By the time I'm done we’ll have a whole nice list of everyone who has a finger in this disgusting project, and I plan to make sure it’s a scathing political hit piece for anyone who thought this was a good idea.”

“Do we need to worry about big blue being up our asses? Or that what we send you is for you, not him or the league?” Pam asked.

“He knows better than to touch my work. But do you guys really think someone in the league is helping this organization?”

“We’ll let you form your own opinion after we send you some files Lois. And you can tell us what you think.” Selina countered.

“I look forward to collaborating with you ladies. But it’s late. Jon will have the phone tomorrow. Happy Hanukkah.”

“Thanks Lois. Happy holidays.” the ladies replied and hung up.

Chapter Text

“You’ve been around more Dick?” Bruce asked after Damian and Duke had headed down to the batcave to discuss their findings and collaborate on their case.

“Is that a problem?” Dick asked.

“Of course not. I was just surprised.”

“It’s a holiday, please don’t fight.” Tim said moodily from his seat looking over his tablet.

“We aren’t fighting.”

“True, I stuck around today to give you a message. Whatever you did to the kittens for their gifts you need to tone it down and not do it again.” Dick gave a strained smile and blinked innocently at Bruce. While the rest of the bat kids looked at the two besides Tim. “Oh and start locking more of your case files about Selina in the batcomputer from baby b.”

“What happened?” Cass asked.

“What did you do? How hard is it to get gifts for kids? How did you fuck it up? Do we need to fix this? What do the kids want Dick?” Steph bemoaned.

“They were a little overwhelmed. It was a minor setback. I wasn’t expecting Selina to tell them it was from me.” Bruce said. “They like them just fine. I got a thank you message.”

“The kids made it sound like they threatened you.” Dick countered.

“It could be interrupted that way, yes,” Bruce went back to his paper, “but they also expressed their thanks and enjoyment of the gifts.”

“Damian is offering to hunt down their dad and his identity and scare him straight for stalking them and making them uncomfortable.” Dick added just staring down Bruce.

“Sweet.” Cass said like a proud sibling.