Author's notes: We're going a tad AU here. You'll see why soon enough, but this is probably one of the most notable un-following comic book post, although there is a quote form the books.
Enjoy!
………
Changing of the Guard
October:
If he was honest with himself, this was the most frightful moment of the Robin training thus far. Tim swallowed and held the box tightly in his hands. Taking a deep breath, he placed the object on the nearby chair and took a seat in another. The teenager stared at the white box and then leaned forward, placing his face in his hands.
He never thought that this moment would come and, in fact, he still wasn't certain this was real. For years he had fantasized about being able to wear the Robin outfit and fight along side Batman. He had always told himself that he would never – could never - reach that point. And even when he had sought out Dick, he never expected to be offered this job. He only wanted Batman to have a Robin- any Robin.
But here he was. Tim raised his head and reached for the box.
Dick Grayson had made this costume a legend. Tim could never live up to Dick and all that he represented.
Jason Todd had died in it. Nothing Tim could ever do to even come close to making such a sacrifice.
So here he was. Tim Drake - Robin III. What was he suppose to do with these responsibilities? What kind of Robin was he supposed to be? Opening the lid of the box, Tim stared at the Robin costume sitting and shook his head.
He was insane, yet he still reached in and began to remove the suit because this is what he wanted. And needed.
The Robin costume unfolded itself causing Tim cocked his head to the side.
He smiled.
Tim wasn't Dick or Jason, but he would find his own place in this crazy world.
Slowly releasing a calming breath, the teenager began to undress.
Bruce and Alfred stood out in the main area of the Cave waiting for their young charge.
"Is he ready?" Alfred asked as he discretely dusted.
"He will be," Bruce assured just as they heard the soft steps of Tim.
"Gentlemen," the teenager began and slowly walked into the light. "May I introduce your new Robin…"
Tim stood before them in the redone Robin outfit. The green mask, though it hid the sparkle of excitement in his eyes, did nothing to hide the smile that covered his whole face.
The short pants were gone, replaced by long green leggings. There were no more little boots, but now steel and split toe boots to help with balance. A black cape with yellow accents flowed behind Tim.
He was a new Robin; he his own Robin.
Tim grabbed the cape as he turned around to face the older men. "Thank you," was all he said and all that he could.
It wasn't time for him to be on the streets, but just wearing the costume was enough to make him realize that soon it would be.