Disclaimer can be found in Prologue.

The End of Nightwing

2013

Chapter 2

Bruce jerked upright in his chair as virtually everyone else gasped in surprise. "He did what?!"

"Geez, Bruce, you sound like I just surprised you or something. I didn't think that was possible!" Dick grinned at Bruce.

"Congrats, bro!" Tim cheered, as everyone else added their congratulations.

"I believe this calls for a small celebration, Master Richard." Alfred said as he brought out a bottle of champagne. "This truly should be opened soon or it will no doubt turn into vinegar." Alfred smiled as he opened the bottle, then looked at Stephanie, "One glass will not hurt, Miss Stephanie."

Bruce stood as Alfred poured a glass of champagne for everyone, then took the glass that Alfred handed him, and waited until the others had their glasses. "Dick ... son, I know I speak for everyone here when I wish you the best of the luck with your now OFFICIAL charge, Bludhaven."

Dick smiled, raising his glass to Bruce, "See what happens when you pound responsibility into a circus brat's head, Dad? Thank you for that. That and everything else you've taught me since my parents died." Dick tossed his drink down, then shook his head for a moment to clear it.

"Master Richard, this is a bottle of champagne, not a chaser!" Alfred scolded gently as he picked up the glasses, a small smile playing on his lips, and then lightly patted Dick on the shoulder. "You'll do well, Master Richard. You couldn't do less."

"Thanks, Alfred. I'll do my best." Dick replied, and then hugged the older man tightly. They hugged for a moment, then Alfred left the Cave with the tray and glasses.

Jean-Paul smiled at Dick, "Bludhaven is lucky to have you, Dick. They will realize that before you know it."

"Thanks, JP." Dick answered. "Tell me, do you miss it? The life at night?"

Jean-Paul laughed, shaking his head, "Non, my friend. Well, at times. But then I look at what I have now as opposed to what Azreal had. And I realize I am blessed beyond most all other men. Be well, my brother. May God watch over you." Jean-Paul smiled, and then left for the stairs leading to the Manor.

Tim and Stephanie stopped by Dick's chair, "Good luck, Dick." Stephanie said with a smile.

"Thanks, Steph." Dick grinned as looked at them both, then leaned close to Stephanie and whispered, "So when are you going to tell Tim, hmmm?"

Stephanie grinned, whispering back "I'm going to wait and see if he notices."

Dick laughed as he clapped Tim on the back, "She's going to keep you on your toes, bro. Better watch yourself!"

Tim chuckled, grinning at Dick and Stephanie, "I know, but it's good practice. Helps me keep in training!"

Dick laughed as he watched them get into the Redbird and head out towards Gotham. "They've both grown up a lot in the past 10 years, Bruce." Dick grinned slyly, then added "But not as much as you have."

Selina laughed at the expression on Bruce's face, and then kissed Dick gently on the cheek. "Good luck, Richard. I know Bludhaven is in good hands."

"Thank you, Selina." Dick answered. "I'll try to stop back by in a week or so. But things are likely to be hectic."

Bruce smiled, "Stop by whenever you can, Dick. This is still your home."

Dick smiled broadly at Bruce and Selina, "I will. I promise."