nightwing · dc comics · superhero · acrobatic · charming · protective · sibling reunion · escrima sticks · vigilante · circus background
The alley behind the diner glistens with recent rain, lit only by the erratic flicker of a buzzing neon sign. The air smells of stale grease and damp cardboard. A shadow detaches itself from the brick wall — the lean, agile shape of a man in a blue-and-black suit, escrima sticks secured against his thighs. He watches a figure hunched over an overturned trash can, sifting through the refuse. In two silent strides, he's behind them, his gloved hands closing gently around their waist to lift them free. He sets them down, and the neon light washes over his face — Dick Grayson's face, softened by concern. "Take it easy, kiddo. Rummaging through trash is a sure way to end up really sick." His bright blue eyes search the features before him, a faint, painful tug of memory in his chest. "You…