Only ten hours ago, Dick and Rose had been announcing their engagement to the Bat family and already they had been dragged out to go clubbing. After the couple's announcement, Jason had decided to make an impromptu visit to the Manor where he found out about the engagement. Of course being Jason, he had decided to take Rose, Dick, and even Helena out to a nearby club. It was now 11 o' clock at night and all four were just hanging out and drinking in the VIP room. It reminded Dick of the last time he went clubbing with Jason, Rose, Harley, Roy, and Killer Frost. Fun times.

Dick's thoughts were interrupted by Rose leaning against him which didn't go unnoticed by Jason and Helena.

Jason: "So Dick, who's gonna be your best man big brother?" he said with a suggestive tone.

Dick: "Well I asked Bruce but he said that he'd rather be in the front next to Alfred taking pictures so maybe Tim?" he said trying to illicit a response from Jason.

Apparently it worked because Jason's jaw dropped at the mention of his name.

Jason: "Come on big bro, who is throwing you this awesome little night out? Me or that little pipsqueak?"

Dick: "You know Jason, maybe if you asked, I'd let you be the best man" he said with a smile.

Jason's face immediately lightened and he leaned back with a smile.

Jason: "Good, we have an understanding then. Ass" he finished smiling.

Rose immediately sat up.

Rose: "Oh, Helena, I definitely want you as one of my bridesmaids because of the whole Blackgate thing. Also, I like a girl who can handle idiots with force" she said smiling.

Helena went wide eyed and smiled. She looked at both Dick and Rose who were obviously serious.

Helena: "Yeah definitely" she answered quickly. She had never been a bridesmaid before.

Jason: "So who's the maid of honor as if I need to ask?" he asked still leaned back.

Rose: "I'm picking Harley. We became pretty good friends so I'm just gonna call her tomorrow about it."

They were all about to order another round of drinks before a beeping came from inside both Dick and Jason's pockets. The two looked at each other, both knowing what it meant. Bat Cave. Now.

Both got up without a word and rushed out of the club leaving Rose and Helena alone to wonder what was happening.


Reaching the Bat Cave, Dick and Jason came across the entire Bat Clan huddled around the Bat Computer.

Dick: "Hey, we got the message. What's up?" he asked slightly concerned.

Tim, Barbara, and Alfred turned to Dick and Jason, each with tears in their eyes.

Dick: "Guys, where's Bruce?" he asked, his heart beginning to race.

It took awhile but eventually, Barbara came forward to speak.

Barbara: "Earlier on patrol, Tim and Bruce went to confront Bane who was causing trouble. And he..." she couldn't seem to get it out.

Dick was starting to panic.

Dick: "He what Barbara?" he asked frantically.

Finally, the tears began to flow.

Barbara: "He broke Bruce's spine" she got out with all of her will power.

Dick went wide eyed. No, it couldn't happen. Nothing could break the Bat. He was supposed to be invincible.

Dick: "Where is he?" he said getting choked up.

This time Tim stepped forward leaving Alfred to sit alone at the computer trying not to completely break down.

Tim: "The Justice League's got him. They were able to stabilize him, but he's paralyzed from the waist down" he said looking at the ground.

Jason: So, what's this mean for Gotham" he asked emotionless.

Dick was now sitting down with tears starting to drop.

The Cave was silent for what seemed like an eternity before Tim finally turned to face Jason.

Tim: "It means that it's time to initiate the Knightfall Protocol" he said looking towards Dick.

Jason: "What's the Knightfall Protocol?"

Alfred finally joined the mix and looked at Jason to answer him.

Alfred: "The Knightfall Protocol is a contingency plan in case Master Bruce was ever unable to carry out the duties of Batman. It is supposed to ensure that the Batman never dies by choosing a successor to wear the cowl" he answered sadly.

Jason took time to think before making his next comment.

Jason: "So, what happens next? We all get together and hold tryouts to see who will be the next Batman?"

Alfred paused before his final answer.

Alfred: "The successor has already been chosen. He was twelve years ago" he finished letting a few tears fall before looking at the ground.

It only took a few seconds for Jason to realize what Alfred was saying. He immediately looked at Dick who was now shaking on the floor.

Jason: "No, you can't do this. I'll do it, just don't make him do it" he nearly shouted.

Barbara and Tim took this opportunity to voice their opinions.

Tim: "Dick is the rightful heir to the cowl and the only one qualified. He's stronger than us, more experienced than us, and most importantly, he was the one chosen by Bruce."

Barbara turned herself to Dick.

Barbara: "I'm so sorry Dick. I know you didn't want this, but you're the only option."

Dick looked up, his face a mess. He slowly got up and on his feet.

Dick: "The Protocol must be followed. I will make the announcement to the League tomorrow and have my things moved here. For now, everyone go get some rest. I've gotta go make some calls" he announced sadly.

Dick slowly made his way to the elevator, getting out his phone to call Rose.


Hope you guys like the chapter, story, and new drama I added in. Still more to come so stay tuned. Also don't forget to LEAVE A REVIEW! I do read them and take into account what you guys say and it helps to improve the story so don't forget to leave your comments or suggestions. Appreciate all of you and once again thank you all for the support.