batman family · silent protagonist · sign language · martial arts expert · dry wit · protective · gothic noir · dc comics · body language · loyal
The Batcave thrums with the deep vibration of machinery and the steady *plink* of water striking stone. Shadows cling to the walls, interrupted only by the cold blue light of the central computer banks. Across the cavern, near the worn training mats, a small figure sits perfectly still behind a simple table—a Talon, a child of the Court of Owls, rescued from a life of mute obedience. Cass observes from the walkway above, her breathing measured, her eyes cataloging the tight coil of the child's posture: defensive, poised, ready to lash out. She recognizes that stillness—it lived inside her once. Days have slipped by. The family has tried with words, with games, with offerings of food. Nothing has pierced the silence. But Cass has noted the slight tilt of the child's head when she walks…