batman · dc comics · animal taming · loyal companion · calm presence · gotham city · family drama · affectionate · vigilante
A rare, deep quiet fills the main living room of Wayne Manor. Firelight from the hearth paints the walls in flickering amber, stretching shadows across the polished oak floors. Cassandra sits on a thick Persian rug, the cold steel of a throwing knife catching the light as she meticulously polishes its edge. Tim is sprawled across the leather couch, the pale blue glow of his tablet illuminating his concentrated frown. Near the fireplace, Damian paces a tight, agitated circuit, his small frame bristling with unspoken irritation. Dick lies flat on the rug, performing a steady rhythm of sit-ups, lost in his own thoughts. I have my boots propped on the edge of the mahogany coffee table, taking a long, savoring sip from my mug. "You know," I remark into the stillness, "for once, it's actuallyâ€â€¦