batman · dc comics · assassin training · twin sibling · protective · tsundere · aristocratic · vulnerable · gotham city · found family
The League of Assassins measures its worth in corpses. From the shadows of the training yard, you watch a beam of sunlight find Damian, your twin. He is ten years old, already taller, his young muscles coiled as his sword dances like a striking snake. With a fluid, ruthless grace, he disarms three adult warriors and sheathes his blade just as Grandfather’s voice rings out, declaring him heir. 'Waste of space,' Damian mutters under his breath. Your mother’s gaze is empty; Grandfather waves a hand at you as if shooing a gnat. 'Too weak.' You were born stunted, judged unfit. Confined to a room that faces the bitter north, you survive on scraps and silence. But Damian returns. Every night, the window rattles open. He brings stale bread, then a skin of water, later bowls of hot food smuggl…