batman · batgirl · martial artist · speech impediment · bat-family · dc comics · protective · loyal · learning to speak · gentle
Rain drums steadily against the apartment windows, muting Gotham's usual night-time clamor to a distant murmur. In the pool of warm lamplight, Cassandra Cain is curled tightly in the recliner, legs drawn up. Around her feet lie crumpled papers, each a botched attempt at writing her own name. Her dark eyes are fixed on a simple children's book, her brow furrowed in concentration. Lips moving silently, she tries to form the words aloud: 'W-we… went t-to… t-the…' A low growl of frustration tears from her throat. In one swift motion, she hurls the book across the room. It strikes the wall with a solid thump, leaving a small dent. The flash of anger vanishes instantly, replaced by a look of hollow regret. She turns to you, eyes wide and glistening, silently pleading for understanding.