AN: I'm sorry for making you poor people wait so long. But this is it! The final chapter for this story. It feels very bittersweet to post this – kind of like the ending to this. But I've been tinkering with it for months and now I feel like it's ready. Ahh I'm excited.

Also, we finally have the winner of the Josh-name contest. A huge thank you to everyone who commented a suggestion. There were so many great suggestions. All of you certainly know how to pick a name for a frat bro and I laughed at so many of them! So, fate (a random internet generator Lol) decided. The lucky suggestion came from StarFruit23! What was their pick? You'll see.

36. Symbols

Wally was enveloped by a cloudy sleep. He was dreaming of nothing really. Just comforting warmth and tranquillity.

A shrill sound pierced through Wally's peace and quiet. Far closer to his ear than he liked. It made him tense. Wally sat up when the sound continued, his entire body vibrating from the sudden adrenaline.

"Sorry", Nightwing sounded sheepish, "Just go sleep again."

Wally groaned and fell back onto the cushions. He put his forearm over his eyes. Whatever time it was, it was too early to wake up. The warmth next to Wally suddenly grew lesser as the mattress moved under him.

"I get a call, Wally", a soft touch to Wally's cheeks.

N's lips.

"I be back", Nightwing's steps moved away.

The door closed almost silently. Wally groaned and turned around in the bed. How was he supposed to go to sleep again after such an adrenaline burst. Maybe if he just closed his eyes aga-

Wally woke up again when he heard muffled voices.

"-How can you lose key?", Nightwing, "I not want wake Wally. My… phone already wake him."

"How are you going out without a key?", Josh.

"I not live here."

"That doesn't answer anything."

"It better excuse than yours."

"I'll find it", Josh said, "It has to be in my pockets somewhere."

There was some rustling.

"It there?", Nightwing asked.

No answer.

"You lose key?"

"I didn't lose it. I just don't have it."

More quiet. Some more rustling as Josh must be searching through all his pockets.

Wally sat up. Considering whether to open the door or to let this exchange continue. He decided for the latter. Messing with Josh was too much fun. Especially because his roommate had apparently lost one of their two keys.

"Wait, let me open."

"How?"

"Pick lock", there was some rattling in the lock.

"Just like that?"

"It not hard lock."

"Gotham-people are so weird."

Wally yawned again. He stood up, deciding to help his boyfriend and roommate out of their misery. He reached the door. It clicked open before he could react.

Nightwing lighted up when he saw Wally and held up a brown bag: "Hello, sleepy. I get breakfast for you."

Wally opened the bag, his mouth salivating at the sight of three bagels.

"You were up the whole time, jerk?", Josh asked.

"Yep", Wally grinned, "It was very entertaining."

Josh looked like he was about to curse him out but he halted: "I think I have to puke."

His roommate pushed past them and vanished in the bathroom. Wally blanked out the retching-sounds as he bit into his bagel.

"Do I even want to know what you two were up to?", Wally said between bites.

"I get call."

"Who?"

"Donna. Kori and she come back from Wonder Woman-island today."

"So, you're leaving", Wally couldn't keep the disappointment out of his voice.

"You know where find me, Wally. We call. We text. I visit. You visit. It work."

"You're right", Wally squeezed Nightwing's hand, "It will."

Nightwing's smile was blinding. It was still unusual to see this expression from him.

"And you found my roommate."

"Yeah. I be on way from bakery and I find him sleep under tree?"

"Did you take a photo?", the last vestiges of sleep left Wally, eager at the idea of blackmail material.

Nightwing tilted his head in confusion.

"You still have a lot to learn about college life."

The bathroom-door opened, and Josh stepped out. He looked deadly pale with black rings under his eyes.

"Good morning", Wally sounded overexcited on purpose.

Josh groaned, rummaging through his drawers, and pulling out some painkillers. He downed them with the contents of a crumpled water bottle.

Wally asked: "Have a good night?"

"I had a great night. How do you not have a hangover, West? You downed just as much as I did."

"I have a fast metabolism", Wally said.

Josh shook his head in disbelief.

Wally bit into his bagel: "So, you lost one of our keys?"

Josh groaned again: "I must have left it with that cheerleader."

"Then, you'll know where to find it."

"That's a funny story."

Wally raised an eyebrow.

"Apparently, she had a boyfriend. And said boyfriend wasn't happy when he found us."

Wally laughed: "He threw you out?"

"Yep."

"And then you decided to sleep under a tree?", Wally asked, "You're fulfilling all the clichés."

"You hurt?", Nightwing asked.

Josh frowned at the concern: "I'm fine. Just not excited to get that key."

"I can't help you there. That's your problem", Wally couldn't help but feel smug.

"Maybe your ninja-boyfriend could use those lockpick-skills and-"

"I not search through some girl's room", Nightwing sounded offended, "I from Gotham. I not criminal… Well, not like that."

Josh blinked: "Do I even want to know?"

"You really don't", Wally said.

"I need leave anyway", Nightwing went to his backpack, slipping the communicator back inside so that it was hidden from Josh's view.

"Now?", Wally whined.

"Donna need me. I sorry."

"Fine", Wally moped, "But I'm walking you out. And we see each other at least once a week."

"I promise", Nightwing said, "You know where I be."

"I have too much of a headache for all this talk", Josh muttered.

Wally put on his clothes.

Nightwing turned to Josh: "Good luck recover."

Josh threw his hand over his forehead: "I don't think I'll ever recover."

Wally pulled his sweater over his head: "Don't you have Intro to Mechanics in an hour?"

His roommate only grunted in response. Wally hadn't expected anything more eloquent.

"For a guy called Joshua Lerner, you never learn anything", Wally said.

"I'm wise beyond a plane of reality that you can even comprehend, West."

"Use that wisdom to get the key back."

Josh groaned again, rubbing his temples.

"You ready, Babe?", Wally asked.

To Wally's surprise, Nightwing approached Josh and pulled him into a hug: "You good Wally-friend."

"Thanks", Josh looked over at Wally, a confused frown on his face, "Your boyfriend is hugging me."

Wally gestured at him to hug back. Josh put his arms around Nightwing's back.

Nightwing withdrew after a moment, his tone stern: "But delete Wally Tinder-account."

"I will", Josh said.

"Now", Nightwing said, "You still have phone."

"I'll do it later. My head is-"

"Now."

Wally had to hold in a chuckle when Nightwing went on his tiptoes to look over Josh's shoulder while he deleted the account. Hawking over him like a Bat.

Josh held up his phone: "See? All gone. Can I sleep now?"

Nightwing tilted his head, reading. He nodded in satisfaction.

"Do I get a hug, too?", Wally asked, his tone teasing.

Nightwing tackled Wally into a full-on hug. Wally savoured the feeling. He swore that they would keep up their regular meetings. Nightwing had enjoyed his time on campus with Wally. They were good here in their own little bubble away from all the stressors of the superhero-life. Wally wished he could share it with Nightwing all the time, but he knew that it was impossible. Nightwing lived the mission.

"Let go", Nightwing seemed energized.

"See you", Wally turned to Josh, "And get that key."

His roommate dropped onto the bed, pulling the cover over his face.

"Take your time", Josh muttered.

"He okay?", Nightwing asked after they had left the dorm.

"He's just a whiny, little drama queen. He'll be okay", Wally said, "Where are we going?"

"Jump City."

"You in the sun? I can't imagine that."

"I not vampire. I only look like."

"I still want to see it."

They reached an alley. Wally changed into his Kid Flash-costume at superspeed. Nightwing put on his own costume behind a dumpster. He grinned when Wally pulled up the zipper, running a tender hand over his back.

"Always happy to assist", Wally said.

"Sure", Nightwing chuckled.

"One journey to Jump City. Here we go", Wally let Nightwing jump onto his back.

Then, they were off.

Wally stopped in front of a warehouse. Not the dingy ones in Gotham. This one was situated directly next to a sandy beach and had a clean exterior. Still, the streets were deserted.

"Lonely but clean", Wally said, "Looks perfect."

"Yep", Nightwing jumped off Wally's back.

Wally heard voices from inside the building. More excited chatter than anything.

"The Titans already inside?"

"They not suppose to. Not have access yet. Batman need their fingerprints."

Wally frowned. Nightwing approached the door. He had taken the glamour charm off mid-run. Nightwing listened with a tilted head.

"Hear voices", he said, "They in. Not know how."

"Maybe the door was open", Wally said.

"Batman not leave door open."

"I'm sure it's fine."

"They sound fine."

"You're overthinking this."

"It my job overthink things", Nightwing said, "You want come in?"

Wally took a deep breath: "I don't think that's a good idea. I'm out of the life."

"They my friends."

"I know. I don't think I'm ready to turn up anywhere as Kid Flash again though."

Nightwing looked a bit disappointed, but he squeezed Wally's hand: "I understand. But you meet them someday."

"Someday", Wally agreed, "You still need to settle in as a team anyway."

He was about to lean in for a goodbye-kiss when Nightwing bit his lip. He looked very anxious suddenly.

"What's going on?", Wally asked.

"There something I need tell you. I pro-cras-ti-na-te do."

"You're worrying me."

"It not that bad – I think. I just need tell you before you leave."

"I can be across the country in a few minutes, Babe. We'll see each other so often."

"I know. I just need make peace with it. And I not want ruin college-visit."

Wally stayed quiet. His worry grew inside him. He thought that Nightwing was doing better. But had he just put on a happy face for Wally?

Nightwing lowered his voice, his hands digging into the costume at Wally's chest as if he didn't want to let Wally go: "When I be undercover, Luthor think certain things."

"Luthor thinks a lot."

"You need know: From Luthor-perspective, Deathstroke order me get close to you. To… sleep with you."

"It's all lies. It doesn't say anything about our relationship", Wally tried to reassure him.

"It not", Nightwing agreed, "But Luthor still think that Deathstroke and I… And he propose that I do more thing like this."

Wally tensed, his mind running a thousand miles a minute. He knew that Nightwing would do a lot for the mission, but would he go so far?

Nightwing's face fell: "I never do something like this. Never for Court. Never for Luthor or Deathstroke. You need believe me, Wally."

There was a scared edge to his voice.

"I do", Wally put his hands on Nightwing's shoulder, "And even if you had been forced to do this, I wouldn't judge you."

Nightwing deflated, relaxing a bit. It was surreal to have this conversation next to the beach. The calming waves rushing in the back. This was not the right setting for such an intimate conversation. Nightwing truly had forfeited this until the last minute.

"I tell Deathstroke that I not do this kind things after Luthor propose. That I have lines."

"What did he say?"

"He promise he step in if Luthor try force me do."

"You think Deathstroke would have?"

"I believe at time. Now, not know anymore."

Nightwing frowned. He looked pensive and more than a bit sad.

"I tell Deathstroke that I not want do. I not can hurt you like that… And I not can hurt myself like that."

"You set your boundaries."

"Like you tell me I need do. Like you always show me. I know it low bar. But I try even before you break up with me. Break-up only show that I need do more. That I deserve more."

Warm affection rose in Wally's chest. Nightwing was finally realizing what Wally had seen in him for so long.

"I'm proud of you."

Nightwing's eyes widened. He took a small step towards Wally.

"I not want you think bad of me when you hear things about me."

"You believe I would think less of you for some stupid rumours? I think I've already proven that I'll stick with you no matter your reputation."

"You do hundred times over. It just never become this personal about us. There be reason I not tell we together in interview. I not say thing about you even though you mean everything to me, Wally."

Wally's chest made another hitch. Nightwing's words were soft. Affectionate. They made Wally feel safe. Protected. Nightwing would always look out for him and Wally couldn't believe how lucky he was.

"I appreciate it."

Wally truly did. He wouldn't mind Kid Flash being connected to Nightwing. He would never be ashamed of Nightwing. What scared him more was the prospect of coming out on national television. Wally may be able to show his relationship with those closest to him but having millions of people judge him for being himself was terrifying.

Wally didn't know how Nightwing coped with it. Especially because Nightwing hadn't been left any choice in the matter.

Nightwing said: "You know everything about mission now."

Wally nodded. With everything out in the open they could finally move on from it.

Nightwing took another step towards Wally leaving almost no space between them.

He leaned forward, whispering into Wally's ear: "You always give me choice, Wally. That what I love about you."

Nightwing's whisper hung between them like a secret. It was a bit eery. The way the words hit Wally without any trace of warm breath. Wally had taken some time to get used to it.

It hit Wally with full force. The knowledge that he had almost destroyed the very foundation their relationship was built on. Artemis had kept him from taking Nightwing's injured body away from that beach – away from his chosen mission.

Wally was sure that their relationship would have broken if Artie hadn't talked him down. The possibility was too terrible to dwell on.

"I do", Wally said.

He silently promised that he would always leave Nightwing a choice even if Wally liked neither of the options.

Nightwing put his chin on Wally's shoulder. They stayed like this for a bit, their fingers interlaced as they listened to the soft waves. Wally didn't want to leave. But Wally wasn't a part of the world anymore that Nightwing was so deeply invested in. They would still make it work because they always did.

"You think he's gotten that key by now?", Wally asked.

Nightwing chuckled, his chin still on Wally's shoulder: "Run a few extra rounds and give him more time."

"He's lucky that you're so nice."

"I think you be the only person who call me nice, Wally."

"The others are blind", Wally wrapped his arms around Nightwing's body, pulling him even closer.

They stood like this. Neither of them wanting to let go of the tranquillity that had engulfed them.

Nightwing pulled back and kissed Wally's cheek: "I need go."

"Yeah", Wally said, "I'll text you tonight."

"Call."

"You already want to call?"

"I miss you already, Wally."

Wally smiled. He turned around and ran off. Then, he stopped suddenly and turned back. Nightwing tilted his head when he saw that Wally was approaching again.

"Forgot something", Wally pressed a kiss to Nightwing's lips.

Nightwing smiled.

Wally ran off before he could get lost again, a spring in his step. He ended up doing the extra rounds just to get rid of all that energy.

Bruce took a deep breath. He looked at the wooden door in front of him. The only barrier that divided him from his youngest. He lowered his shoulders, noticing how tense they had gotten.

Bruce shook his head. This was ridiculous. This was his son on the other side. They should be able to speak. Alfred had repeatedly stated how much Damian reminded him of Bruce. But maybe that was the problem? Maybe Bruce just couldn't deal with himself.

He had to though. Nightwing was right. Bruce couldn't send Damian to his room indefinitely. He needed to try with the boy even if it was hard.

Bruce knocked against the wood, his back tensing again.

"Come in", Damian sounded bored.

Bruce opened the door, pushing his shoulders down again. Damian was sitting on his bed, a notebook in hand. He closed it when Bruce approached.

"Hello, Damian", Bruce said.

He fought against the urge to distance himself mentally. To treat this like just another problem. His son wasn't a problem.

"Father", Damian stood up completely straight.

"I wanted to talk."

"Did Nightwing send you to talk?", Damian said, "You need not bother for his sake. I do not require cuddling."

Bruce cringed.

"I'm here for you, Damian."

He frowned when he noticed how much he meant it. Bruce wanted to get to know this little boy that had turned up on his doorstep one day. He was a piece of a love long lost.

Damian's features lightened up for just a moment. He looked surprised. It hurt Bruce's soul. All his children were hurting in their own way and Bruce was barely able to deal with his own pain most times. How could such a tortured man be a good father to three – no two - traumatized boys?

Bruce moved towards the bed and sat down. He looked at the notebook.

"You're being creative? What are you doing? Writing? Drawing?"

"It is childish", Damian stood up and grabbed the notebook out of Bruce's reach, "Do not bother with it, father. I have received the message."

Bruce fought against the urge to ball his fists. He wondered how he had screwed up again. Which message had he unintentionally sent to his youngest?

"No, Damian", Bruce said, "I'm sorry if I came off as dismissive. I'm interested in what you are doing. I would like to see your art if you are willing to share it with me."

"Mother never encouraged my attempts. She viewed them as a waste of time."

"Well, you're not with the League anymore. You're with me, Alfred and your brothers-",

Bruce corrected himself, "Brother."

"It is childish", Damian reiterated.

"Have you ever seen my room, Damian?"

"I would never invade your privacy, father."

Bruce sighed internally. It was so hard with Damian. The boy saw everything as an attack. Now, Bruce had to hold out his hand and get Damian to take it.

"Come on", Bruce said, "Let me show you something."

Damian followed without another world. They crossed the hallway. Past Nightwing's room. Past Jason's room – Bruce forced himself not to look at it. It hurt too much. He opened the door to his own room. It was elegant but sparse.

He only had a few personal items on his dresser. One of them a family photo that Nightwing had made them take together on a lazy Sunday where they had watched a Knights-game. Even Alfred had joined.

Bruce couldn't suppress a warmth in his chest. Even at seeing Jason in his Knights-cap. They all looked happy for once. Free of their usual burdens. But this wasn't the reason Bruce had brought Damian here.

"Do you see that?", Bruce pointed at a poster.

It showed a man in a grey trench coat with a hat. The artwork was draped in shadows.

"The Gray Ghost", Damian read.

"I was a giant fan when I was a kid. The Gray Ghost was – is – my idol. I still have all the old VHS tapes. Alfred puts them on when I'm laid up in bed with injuries. It's the only thing that can keep me there. I've never actually shared them with Nightwing and… Jason."

"It is a children's show."

"The Gray Ghost is for everyone, Damian. Even adults – even Batman – can like childish things."

"I see, Father", Damian left the room.

Bruce stood there. Dumbstruck. Had he done something wrong? He felt like he had connected with Damian on some level. But maybe he had been mistaken.

Bruce left his room, ready to go after Damian. He met the boy in the hallway, his notebook clutched in his hand.

"I have ideas, Father", Damian pushed the notebook into Bruce's hands.

Bruce looked at the drawing, marvelling at the detail. It showed Batman, draped in shadows. Next to him, was a smaller figure. A figure wearing a red, green and yellow costume. The color was broken up by patches of black to darken the costume a bit. The figure's head was covered by a grey hood, but Damian's features were discernible even under the domino mask.

The drawing was remarkable. Bruce had to get Damian into some art classes. His son had to be passionate about drawing to develop these skills despite the League's discouragement.

"Robin?", Bruce read the name next to the costume.

"Yes."

"It's a nice costume", Bruce looked at the page, "But you are a child, Damian – my child. I can't bring you into my war on crime."

"You allow Nightwing and Red Hood to fight", Damian raised his chin.

"They are adults."

Both of them were – Jason's decision-making skills were more than questionable.

Damian ripped the book out of Bruce's hands: "You shall not take this from me, Father."

Bruce felt desperation creep into his voice: "I'm not taking anything from you."

All of this was to keep Damian safe. It was already giving Bruce grey hairs to know the kind of danger Nightwing… and Jason were in.

Angry tears filled Damian's eyes: "Why do you always seek to punish me, Father?"

"Punish?"

"You seek to steal my only chance."

"Which chance?"

"You allowed Nightwing to redeem himself. Do you not care enough for me to allow me to do the same?"

"Damian", Bruce crouched in front of his son, "You don't have to redeem yourself. You are a child."

"Nightwing was, too. He still went out there. He still became your partner."

Bruce bit his lip. He didn't know how to respond to Damian. Bruce had never tried to keep Nightwing from being a hero. Maybe because Nightwing had been older? Or because Talons were virtually indestructible?

Neither of those were great arguments. Nightwing may have been legally an adult, but he hadn't been able to live on his own nor make autonomous decisions yet. He had needed to learn it together with Bruce, Jason and the Team. And Talons may be strong in many regards but they were so vulnerable in others. It was a double-edged sword.

And then there was Jason. The boy had been 17 when they had met. A minor. Still, Bruce had not tried to deter him from doing vigilante-work. He had fought with him on the ways in which Jason had been Red Hood. But he had never tried to keep Jason from being Red Hood at all.

The look in Damian's eyes was devastated. Haunted. It was a familiar echo to Bruce. Nightwing had looked at him like this two years ago. It was guilt. Only with time, had that look in his eyes receded.

"Robin is an interesting name", Bruce said.

"Robin stands for redemption."

Bruce frowned. Nightwing had told him to ask about Robin. Somehow, his eldest was involved in this.

"You talked about this with Nightwing."

"He gave me his blessing", Damian said, "Nightwing tried to save me. He showed me that… people like us can be heroes. I chose to honour his sacrifices by choosing the name his mother had for him."

Bruce listened up. It felt like he was missing most of the story here. But it was getting harder to deter Damian. The boy was haunted. In pain. Just like Bruce had been before he had become Batman. Maybe Robin was the only way for him to find inner peace. Nightwing seemed to think so. If anyone knew what Damian was going through, it had to be his eldest.

"You're getting along with your brother", Bruce said.

Damian pursed his lips. As if he couldn't bring himself to admit it. Bruce could relate. He wasn't the only Wayne to have emotional confessions as his Achilles-heel.

"I am already in this life, Father", Damian said, "You cannot deter me. I shall use my skills for… the good of humanity."

Bruce nodded, feeling acceptance wash over him. He had never been able to stop his children. He hadn't even been able to stop Jason on his villainous path. He could only protect them on the way.

"I will train you. You will listen to every one of my orders in the field. I will clear you as safe before you can go out. Nightwing had to go through the same process." And he had disobeyed the first night. But Bruce wouldn't mention that.

Damian nodded: "I shall accept your terms."

Bruce put his hand on Damian's shoulder: "Let's get to work."

He stood up, walking towards the Batcave. Damian followed him, right on his heel.

"I am sure you will do well, Robin", Bruce forced the compliment out of his mouth.

He had to reassure Damian. Show faith in him. It felt alien. Stiff. But it also felt like a relief. It felt right.

"Thank you, Father."

Bruce smiled to himself. He could be a good father. He could connect with his children.

Nightwing was off on his own. Stronger and happier than he had ever been. A beacon of good in the world. Bruce's pride. And then there was Damian. A boy with so much potential and heart. He just needed to see it.

Bruce tried not to think of Jason. The son he had failed.

Red Hood's trial had gone over quickly. Jason hadn't even bothered to remember his exact sentence. It was something over a hundred years. Enough that Jason would never see the outside world if he stayed put like a good citizen. They had sent him to Blackgate as expected.

Blackgate where the walls where specially reinforced and the guards armed to the teeth. Every prisoner wore an inhibitor collar no matter if they had powers or not. It was to give them shocks if the guards felt like it – as Jason had quickly learned.

They were allowed out into the courtyard for an hour every day. Jason spent most of it lifting weights and minding his own business. He wanted to keep fit during his detainment. Weakness was preyed upon. Most of the brutes left Jason alone when they saw how much he could lift.

He was in the middle of bench-pressing a weight of over 400 pounds. Maybe he had overdone it this time. Jason strained, trying to keep the weight from dropping down.

A face appeared above him. Silver hair and an eyepatch. Jason almost dropped the weight on the spot.

"Sloppy, kid", Deathstroke gripped the weight and put it down.

Jason lurched up, going into a fighting stance. He hadn't expected Deathstroke to be here. Stupid. Deathstroke had been caught during the Light-summit. Of course, he would be sent to the premier supervillain prison of the country.

"Relax", Deathstroke said, "I'm not here to kill you."

"Why are you here?"

"Your big brother got me here."

Jason glared at Wilson: "Serves you right for trying to kill him, you bastard."

"So resentful. I did our bird a favour by killing the Conductor for him. You are welcome."

The Conductor was dead? A weight of relief was lifted from Jason's chest. One less monster in the world. Still. Deathstroke never did anything from the goodness of his heart.

"Why would you do this?"

Deathstroke's eye flashed dangerously: "I don't like owing favours."

"That isn't how this works."

Deathstroke ignored him because of course he did. Smugness was dripping off the mercenary.

"So", Deathstroke looked around, "The big bad Red Hood ended up here. I expected that our bird would have tried to break you out by now. He is too loyal to let you rot here."

Jason thought about the hurt in N's eyes the last time they had seen each other. Nightwing's loyalty might be strong, but his hurt was intense enough that Jason didn't expect him to visit soon.

"I have a standing offer."

Deathstroke perked up: "And you aren't taking it? Stupid. You're making it harder for big bird to get you out now. Blackgate is hard to crack."

Jason pursed his lips: "I don't need Nightwing to fight my battles for me."

"Sure", Deathstroke didn't sound convinced, "You know that Waller had Blackgate made Talon-proof? Ice-machines in every ceiling. I'm sure he could still pull it off with that team of his."

"It's not relevant for you anyway, Deathstroke. You won't get an opportunity to escape with me because I'm not escaping."

Deathstroke chuckled: "So, we've got another martyr in the family."

"Taking responsibility is not being a martyr."

"So, that's what they call hiding in prison now? Taking responsibility?"

"Fuck off, Deathstroke. N might tolerate your presence because he's too nice but I won't."

"You think your brother is too nice to tell me to screw myself?", Deathstroke chuckled, "You don't know him that well after all."

Jason shook his head. Everything about Deathstroke's presence was irritating.

"Have fun wallowing in guilt, Todd. You know where to find me", Deathstroke left before Jason could curse him out.

Jason frowned. Utterly confused as to the mercenary's motives. He was pretty sure that Deathstroke had hoped for escape via Jason. But you never knew with the mercenary. Maybe he was just messing with Jason for fun.

Jason raised the weight again, ignoring the strain in his muscles and the sweat on his forehead. He was sufficiently pissed off now to carry the weight. Anger had always fuelled him.

Jason took the pain. It was punishment for the sins of the Red Hood. Jason deserved to be here. He had betrayed everything that had mattered to him.

Bruce had been hurt because of him. Mark disfigured. Damian and Nightwing almost killed.

Jason was a danger to his loved ones just like Willis Todd had been. He had never been Batman's son. Not even Catherine's. Just Willis'. Willis was etched into every fibre of his being.

Jason was a monster. A vengeful spirit who knew nothing but rage and pain. He had destroyed his family. It was good that he was away from them. It kept them safe.

Maybe Jason could find redemption within the walls of Blackgate. Until then, he would savour every moment of his punishment. It was what he deserved.

Nightwing finally entered the warehouse using his fingerprint. His lips were still tingling from Wally's kiss. He had missed Wally so much. Being with him again after months of separation had been pure euphoria.

But Wally had left for now. Nightwing was here starting a new chapter in his life. He needed to pour everything he could into this.

The Titans were already present. They were grouped around a round table. Each of their chairs had a symbol on the back. Nightwing spotted a green paw for Beast Boy. The rest of the symbols were obscured from his view. Batman was more obsessive when it came to branding than anyone would expect.

Nightwing frowned. Wondering how the Titans had even entered the building at all. Batman didn't have their fingerprints. Only Nightwing's. They still needed to add the other Titans to the system. Something wasn't adding up. Nightwing listened for anything suspicious. But before he could take the situation in-

"Holy shit. How long have you been standing there?", Gar yelled.

Nightwing turned to him. He hadn't intended to sneak up on the Titans.

"Just come. You already here?"

"Door was open", Donna said.

Nightwing tilted his head. Batman never left any doors open.

"You took forever, dude", Victor said, "Star was already worried that you got cold feet."

"I was not", Kori crossed her arms, "I had utter fate in Nightwing."

"Suure", Gar said.

"Family drama solved?", Victor asked.

"Not. They need solve selves", Nightwing approached the table, unable to shake the feeling of being watched.

Donna hummed in sympathy: "You need to check out these chairs. They are very comfortable."

Nightwing sat down on the chair with the blue bird on the back. He had to agree with Donna. The chair felt perfectly fitted to his body. It felt right.

"Perfect, right?", Donna smiled, sitting next to him, "I feel like a professional. Let's hope this rubs off on us in the field."

"Is your boyfriend joining this team?", Kori asked, "You two must surely have made up."

"We do", Nightwing said.

He looked at the other chair next to him. It was empty. Nightwing fiddled with his fingertips. Bruce wasn't one to place an extra chair for no reason.

"We're surprised that he isn't here", Donna said, "Is he late?"

"He's Kid Flash. Flashs aren't late", Gar said.

Nightwing turned the empty chair around so that he could see the symbol: "He always late. It very impressive."

"We thought that this might be his symbol", Donna said.

Nightwing frowned. The symbol on the back was orange and certainly not a lightning bolt. Darker than the bright one Wally had worn. Two lines ran into a sharp edge. Nightwing smiled to himself.

"This not be Flash-symbol."

"Told you", Gar grinned triumphantly.

Nightwing looked up, searching the ceiling for any trace. He grinned when he found a figure crouched on a support beam. Almost invisible in the shadows. The tension in his chest lessened. No wonder the team hadn't noticed her.

Nightwing took a knife out of his costume and threw it up at the ceiling. Slow enough to catch. A friendly greeting.

Artemis was prepared for the knife moving into her direction. She caught it at the hilt and zipped down onto the floor. The Titans stared at her in disbelief. Artemis soaked in their gazes. Sneaking up on people had its pleasures.

She had found a message this morning. Pinned to the windowsill of her hideout in Coast City. Batman was always dramatic. He must have traced Tigress' movements from city to city.

The message had been short. An address and: "They could use you."

Artemis had huffed at first. But not even an hour later she had moved towards Jump City. In search of… what even? Friendship? Support in her crime fighting mission? One of her closest friends? Could Artemis even call Nightwing a close friend after he had deceived her for months?

"Who is ninja girl?", Garfield asked.

They had never seen her in her Tigress-uniform. Artemis worn her black uniform the day she had backed up the Titans.

"This be Artemis", Nightwing stood up, approaching her.

He looked like he wanted to hug her. But he was holding himself back. He must feel the awkwardness that still lingered between them.

Artemis had pushed it down during the mission. Compartmentalized and done what was necessary. But now their mission was over and neither of them had ever been good without one.

"Green Arrow's sidekick?", Gar asked.

"Not anymore", she corrected them, "Call me Tigress."

"The chair is yours?", Donna asked.

"Batman must have made that assumption. He sent me here."

"He's meddling", Victor sounded displeased.

Artemis couldn't blame him. Nightwing had tilted his head. She could see him thinking but she couldn't discern what. He was unreadable to her ever since the undercover-op. Maybe she had never been able to read him at all.

"I don't mind", Donna smiled supportively, "Tigress backed us up during the escape. I doubt we would have made it without her. Makes her an honorary team member in my book."

"We don't know this woman", Victor said.

"I'm with Vic on that one", Gar said.

"I thought you were a fan", Donna said.

"When she was Green Arrow's sidekick. She obviously isn't anymore. I only take people I trust 100% on my team."

"Your team?", Donna asked, "When did we decide that?"

"We don't need to decide it because I'm obviously the best person for the job", Gar puffed up his chest, "And I say that Tigress leaves. What can she even offer the team? She doesn't have any powers."

Artemis took a deep breath. It reminded her too much of when she had first joined the Team. She had tried too hard to prove herself then, made too many mistakes. Artemis wouldn't make the same ones. Her skills spoke for themselves.

"Without Nightwing, none of you would have noticed me", Artemis said, "I could have killed you multiple times over."

"Really, Blondie?", Vic asked, "That is supposed to make me trust you?"

"It is a fact", Artemis said, "You are powerful, but you are rookies."

"I trained with the warlords of Okaara", Starfire's hands glowed pink.

Artemis didn't doubt that she would be unstoppable if she cut loose.

She tried to be more diplomatic: "I don't doubt your fighting prowess, Starfire, but there is more to being a hero than knowing how to fight. More to being a team."

"If you're so much better than us, why are you even here?", Gar sounded angry.

Artemis sighed. Leave it to her to make a terrible first impression. She had never integrated smoothly with others. The Titans were no exception.

"I'm not better than you. I'm just sure that I have something to offer this team."

"And that is?", Gar bristled.

"Experience", Artemis said, "I'll be happy to join if you'll have me."

She was still met with suspicious glances.

Artemis raised her hands, a peace offering: "Look. I spent my entire hero career with a team and I have to admit that I prefer it. I don't like the solo gig."

"Why don't you go back to your old team?", Vic narrowed his eyes.

"I destroy old team", Nightwing muttered.

He had stayed in the background until now. Artemis opened her mouth. Tried to defend him. But she couldn't bring herself to. Nightwing's lies had been the final nail in the coffin of the old Team. Artemis couldn't bring herself to return. Not after how poisoned they had become and how rigid the League had been. The League was no place for someone like Artemis.

"I go undercover. I make Team believe Flash dead. Break apart because this. I hurt people for keep up cover", Nightwing said, "Artemis, too."

"You saved us", Donna said.

"I poison for teams. You can trust Artemis more than me."

"That's bullshit, man", Vic said, "We wouldn't be here without you."

"Yes", Kori agreed.

Donna approached Nightwing and pulled him into a hug. The others stood up, too, grouping around Nightwing. Artemis was taken aback by their trust in Nightwing.

Nightwing looked at Artemis, Donna's arm still around his shoulder: "You can trust Artemis. She the best you can have in field. And outside of field."

His eyes were shining with affection. Artemis' face felt warm. It had been a while since he had aimed his sincere kindness at her.

Starfire's face relaxed as she floated towards Artemis and held out her hand: "If that is the case, any friend of Nightwing's shall be my friend, too."

Artemis reciprocated the handshake. She forced her face to stay blank despite the force in Starfire's grip. Artemis needed to show them that she was strong.

"I appreciate it", Artemis said.

"Three in favour, two against", Gar said.

Vic sighed: "Four in favour. Blondie is making a point. We are a bit inexperienced. Don't make me regret it though."

Artemis simply nodded.

"Oh man", Gar sighed, "Am I the only one left?"

"That is how numbers work", Victor pulled Gar into a headlock.

The green boy turned into a bird to escape it. With a poof, he transformed back into his human form.

"Fine. I don't want to be the party pooper. I've never been one to tell a hot girl to leave", Gar said.

Vic slapped the back of Gar's head.

"What was that for, Stone?"

"Your unnecessary remark. Someone needs to keep you in check, Saladhead."

"Saladhead?"

"You're green", Vic said.

Donna rubbed her hands: "Let's sit down again then. First team meeting."

They followed suit. Artemis took her seat between Nightwing and Starfire.

"One question", Starfire said once they had all sat down, "What do you do in such a team meeting?"

"I don't know", Donna said, "I just wanted us all to sit on these chairs."

"It's pretty cool", Vic said, "I feel like the real deal for once."

An alarm blaring from the computer cut them off. Artemis suspected that it was the same model as the Batcomputer.

Nightwing approached it, carefully typing. He pulled up a red message, quietly forming the words with his mouth.

Artemis approached the computer. She helped him by reading out: "Emergency: Mad Mod."

"Mad Mod?", Victor said, "Anyone know that guy?"

Nightwing shook his head. Artemis couldn't make any connections either.

"Whoever it is, we are needed", Donna jumped up.

"Everyone get things", Nightwing said.

The Titans ran off into different rooms. Nightwing and Artemis stayed behind, already suited up. He was typing on the computer. Not really doing anything. Just moving his hands to stay busy. Artemis saw through it.

"Thanks for backings me up", Artemis said.

"Always", Nightwing finally stopped typing, looking at her directly, "You the best. I just say truth."

Artemis chuckled: "You don't need to butter me up."

"You still angry with me. I feel."

"Not really angry. I guess just… It's hard to continue where we left off after everything."

"Yeah", Nightwing said, "I very sorry."

"You already said that."

"I hope we can fix. We spend lot time together now."

"I'm sure we will", Artemis smiled softly, "Just give me some time."

"Of course. I support you, Artemis. In everything."

His words sounded meaningful. As if Artemis missed most of the picture.

Artemis nodded. She would need all the support she could get. Artemis was the new girl. The interloper. She needed to play catch-up before she would even be seen as a full teammate. Even Donna – the most supportive one – had called her an honorary teammate.

The other Titans returned. Beast Boy was jumping on one foot, still pulling on his boot.

"Titans, go", Beast Boy yelled as he pulled himself upright.

"We have a catchphrase?", Victor asked.

"Apparently, we do now", Donna sounded amused.

"I like", Nightwing said, "Everyone ready?"

He received a resounding yes. The Titans hurried towards the exit. Artemis kept up with them. She may still be a honorary teammate but she had enough trust in her skills by now to realize that this wouldn't be the case for long. Artemis would prove herself just as she had with her old team.

A part within her was already healing. She was finally free from the League's oppressive standards. Free to walk her own path with what would hopefully become her friends.

It rained when Wally raced towards Fawcett. He had been slower than usual, running longer instead to test his endurance. It was already noon when he reached the campus. Wally quickly changed back into his civilian clothes, burying Kid Flash in his worn backpack.

He approached the dorm, half pulling off his shoes while he opened the door. He expected to see his roommate still lying in bed but to his surprise Josh was sitting on the bed with an icepack covering his eye.

"You took your sweet time", Josh said.

"Dick and I ended up goofing off before he left. You know what it's like."

Josh nodded. Wally pushed the backpack with Kid Flash in the last corners of his wardrobe. He wouldn't need it for a long time – maybe ever.

"What happened?", Wally nodded at the icepack.

"I got the key", Josh threw it at Wally, "My debt is paid."

He tried to smile but gritted his teeth. Wally caught the key. He put it aside, more focused on his roommate now.

"And your eye?"

"I met her boyfriend again", Josh gritted his teeth, "He was in a really bad mood this time."

"And he beat you up?"

"It was one hit."

"Shit. I'm sorry. I didn't know it would be this dangerous. I would have come with you otherwise."

"To do what? Fight him like Rambo? Be serious, West.", Josh lowered the icepack revealing his black eye, "Also, I took good care of myself. You should see the other guy. I think I broke his nose."

Wally smirked, feeling a bit of vindication. Josh may be an idiot most of the time, but he was a good guy. Kicking him was like kicking a puppy.

"He screwed around and found out", Wally plopped down on his own bed.

"That he did."

They were silent for a while. Wally reached for his phone, looking for updates from Jump City. Apparently, the Titans were already on their first mission. They were fighting some guy called Mad Mod in a cooky costume. With some research, Wally found out that he was a British guy who wanted to turn the city into a British colony. Cali villains truly were different.

"I don't know what it's like by the way", Josh said.

Wally put down his phone, frowning in confusion: "What do you mean?"

Josh added: "What you said earlier. To have someone you just goof around with. I don't know what it's like."

"You are close with Alicia."

"We broke up for a reason though. Being friends is different than being a thing", Josh said, "You and Dick truly have something special."

"Didn't you think yesterday that my boyfriend was an abusive prick?"

Josh cringed: "He was so different than from what I expected."

"He tends to have that effect."

"It's just sweet. The way you two support each other. I've seen it first-hand now."

"You usually don't get this mushy."

"It's the black eye", Josh muttered, "And the alcohol. A lot of alcohol. Makes me melancholic."

"I'm sure you'll find someone."

"Of course I will", Josh put on his usual bravado, "And she'll be the hottest girl you've ever seen."

Wally chuckled. He couldn't help but think about Josh's words. Brood about them. Maybe Nightwing was rubbing off on him.

Wally said: "I'm happy. For the first time in a long time."

"That good, huh?"

"It's not just because of Dick – though he's a big part of it. But I feel like I finally know what I want to do. I have a place where I belong. A future. Peace."

"You sound like you fought a war, West."

"Maybe I did. But I'm on the other side now."

"Ominous", Josh put the icepack back onto his eye, "You are full of secrets. Dick, too. It's more obvious with him though because he's weird. Sweet but weird."

"I have nothing to hide."

Josh chuckled: "You think that humble Midwestern boy-façade can fool me?"

Wally stayed quiet. He wasn't eager to dig into his secrets with his roomie. So, he took out his phone again, checking for updates. Wally smiled when he found a video of the Titans detaining Mad Mod - who was cursing a slew of British profanities at them. They had done it. Their first mission was a success.

"It's not my business anyway", Josh turned around, pulling the blanket back up to his chin, "If anything ever comes out– I totally called it though."

"Good luck with that, Lerner."

Wally would keep his cards close to his chest. The hero life was over for him now. Not even Nightwing would pull him in again. Josh would never find out a thing. Kid Flash was history.

Damian was standing in front of a row of training dummies. He had been working on his deprogramming for months now. Days upon days of improving his fighting skills with blunt weapons. Of hitting dummies with Batarangs in non-lethal areas. Of learning how to direct his force just enough. It felt hopeless most of the time.

Damian wanted to throw these Batarangs into the dummies' hearts just out of frustration. He had done it in the beginning every time he had gotten angry. But he knew better now. Father was watching every one of Damian's deprogramming sessions.

Damian's neck itched. A honed reflex for when danger approached. Damian dodged the kick aimed his way in the last second and reached for the person's arm. He used a judo-throw to get his opponent to the floor.

Damian raised his Batarang above his attacker. Ready to defend again if his opponent hadn't gotten the message. Instead, his attacker smiled up at Damian.

"Bruce right. You be good", Nightwing said.

Damian froze. Utterly confused at why Nightwing had attacked him from out of nowhere. His brother hadn't been in the Manor for months ever since he had left for the Titans.

And what was Nightwing implying? Batman almost never praised. Any positive comment from Batman was hard-earned. It made Damian's nerves be rubbed raw. Most of the times, he just didn't know what his father wanted.

"You let me throw you", Damian raised his chin.

He knew better now than to underestimate Nightwing's abilities by now. Damian would be able to defeat him with more years of training. But as of now, if Nightwing didn't want to get thrown, he wouldn't get thrown.

"I not talk about your throw. I talk about that you even do throw", Nightwing pointed at the Batarang, "It be easier just push this in enemy heart."

"Easier but lethal."

"Exactly", Batman entered, his cape flowing behind him.

Damian straightened his back. He couldn't help but feel the need to look hypervigilant within Batman's vicinity. Father expected no less.

"It was a test", Damian said.

"I wanted to see how you would react to an unexpected opponent", Batman said.

"So, did I pass?", Damian gritted his teeth.

Why did his father always have to be so cryptic?

"Yes."

Nightwing elbowed Batman.

Batman added: "I am very happy with your performance, Damian."

Damian straightened his back a bit more. His chain tilting up at the praise. He felt like a wilted flower from his mother's gardens that finally received liquid again. Not that he would ever admit such sentimentality.

Nightwing looked excited: "I go get Damian-gift."

He hurried towards the Batcomputer, rummaging through the drawers.

"Gift?", Damian asked.

"You deserve it, Damian", Batman said.

Nightwing returned with a package. He handed it to Damian. Damian ran his hands along the simple brown wrapping paper. It was soft in places and hard in others. Strange.

Damian pulled open the tape. He uncovered one piece of clothing after another, finally unfolding a red, yellow and green uniform.

His face lightened up: "It's exactly like my sketches."

"Lucius Fox complimented them", Batman said, "He knew exactly which costume to craft."

"May I put it on?", Damian asked.

"It's yours", Batman said.

Damian ran off to the fitting room. He put the uniform on as quickly as he could, fiddling with some of the straps. He had never worn a uniform like this – a hero uniform. There was a R on his chest. Robin. The symbol of redemption. His father may not say it, but Robin was a promise that Father believed in Damian.

It made Damian blink back tears. Damian straightened his spine again. He wouldn't cry. Al Ghuls didn't cry and batman didn't either.

Damian re-emerged from the fitting room, feeling the flutter of the cape behind him. It made him feel larger, more powerful. He threw a few hits and kicks, amazed by the mobility despite the thick armour.

"Look great, Dami", Nightwing said.

"You can move well?", Batman asked.

"Perfectly, Father."

Batman nodded: "You will need it out there."

"Out?"

"If you still want to accompany me", Batman walked towards the Batmobile.

Damian found himself frozen again. Too amazed by the idea that his dreams were actually coming true. That he could finally use the skills he had paid for in blood for good.

Damian hurried to catch up with Batman. He looked at Nightwing, who was still standing in the Cave.

"Are you not coming?", Damian asked.

"I have other thing plan", Nightwing beamed, "Also, this be job for Batman and Robin. You not need me."

Damian couldn't hold back a smile. Nightwing trusted him to watch Batman's back. As Robin should.

Damian nodded. He jumped into the Batmobile, trying to reign in his grin. Batman's partner had to be serious. The smile was on his face again when his father accelerated the Batmobile.

A guard opened Jason's cell. It was late. They already had their daily hour in the courtyard. There was no reason for Jason to be let out. Jason sat up in his bunk.

"You have a visitor, Hood", the bulky guard said as he handcuffed Jason and led him out of the cell.

"I don't get visitors."

Jason didn't deserve them.

"You do today. Nightwing is here."

"Nightwing?", Jason frowned.

He couldn't suppress the excitement within him. It was selfish. Last time they had seen each other, Jason had admitted that he wouldn't have saved Nightwing with his current mindset. Probably the sharpest dagger he could have pushed into his big brother's heart. It hadn't been a surprise that Nightwing hadn't visited him for months.

The guard pushed Jason into the visitation room. The inmates were sitting on stools behind a glass wall, talking to their visitors with telephones.

Jason sat down on the stool. The guard chained his handcuffs to the table. Nightwing sat on the other side of the glass wall. He had no weapons that Jason could see and there was a collar around his neck. A guard stood beside him, a blue gun in his belt.

Jason picked up the telephone: "What the hell, N?"

Nightwing pulled at the collar, visibly uncomfortable with it: "I need talk to you."

"You let them inhibit you, N?", Jason shook his head, "Are you crazy?"

Nightwing said: "You be here as Red Hood so I be here like this."

"You could use a secret ID."

"Someone who visit Red Hood with the way I talk? You not need be Batman for make connection."

Jason sighed. Nightwing was right. This was the only way. But Jason would rather Nightwing not be here than have him endanger himself.

"What if they detain you, N?"

Nightwing looked at the guard with the blue gun, smiling: "They not catch me. We come to understanding."

The guard squirmed under the attention. His head wandered closer to the blue gun than Jason liked.

Jason shook his head. N was more of a risk-taker than people gave him credit for. He was sure that they only allowed Nightwing to visit to glean some information about Red Hood. The prison staff was more than a bit irked by Red Hood's lack of a real identity.

"Sorry for not come earlier. I be busy", Nightwing said.

They both knew that it was a lie. Nightwing might have been busy with his Titans, but he had access to a speedster and Bat-tech. If he really wanted to, he could have visited Jason far earlier.

"You don't need to pretend N. I hurt you last time we saw each other."

Nightwing bit his lip: "I suppose be better than that."

"Better than what? You don't need to always play the perfect big brother. You have a right to be hurt, N."

Nightwing chuckled: "You make it very hard be hurt by you, Hood."

Jason frowned trying to discern what Nightwing meant. He couldn't for the life of him.

Nightwing looked Jason over. Not so transparently searching for injuries.

"I'm good, N", Jason said, "No one dares to attack the Red Hood."

But not to befriend him either. It was a lonely existence. Exactly what Jason deserved.

"If someone-"

"Then I can fight my own battles. I'm not a kid anymore."

Nightwing's teeth dug deeper into his lips. He looked unhappy.

Jason tried to change the topic. He needed to know how Nightwing – and the rest of his family – was doing. He needed to know they were okay.

"I saw it in the newspapers. Without you, Jump City would have been turned into a British Colony twice already."

"Three times", Nightwing shook his head, "Mad Mod be very strange."

"Cali-villains are different", Jason had seen the blurry pictures of the Titans' exploits, "It's weird to see you in the sun."

"Cyborg make me new lenses. They be better for sun."

"Better than the Bat-tech?"

"Cyborg be a genius", Nightwing sounded impressed.

"You look happy."

"I be very happy."

"Jump City has to be a vacation after Gotham."

"A bit. The other Titans need some more experience. They still new to this."

"But apparently you're leading them well."

Nightwing tensed: "I not lead them. We not… solve that question yet. I hope Tigress step up soon."

"Tigress?", Jason frowned, "Isn't she the newbie to your team?"

"She have most experience. And Batman send her for lead team. He believe she right person for do."

"Did he say that?"

"He not need say."

Jason frowned. He doubted that Batman would trust anyone but Nightwing with leading the team. Artemis was undeniably capable to lead. But she hadn't been in the thick of the mission. She hadn't been the one to risk everything to free the Titans. Nightwing had earned leadership without even intending to.

Jason had seen it just from the snippets of that interview. The way the other Titans had backed Nightwing up without question. They trusted him and Nightwing trusted them.

Nightwing changed the topic: "You not need worry about family. They do good. As good as can without you."

Apparently, they had changed from Nightwing's Achilles heel to Jason's.

"They are better off without me", Jason said.

Nightwing pursed his lips: "They miss you very bad."

"They say that?"

"They not need", Nightwing said, "Robin be very hurt that you betray. He respect you very much even if not say."

"Robin? That's the brat's code name?"

"He not be brat. He good kid."

Jason was taken aback by Nightwing's defensiveness. Apparently, his brothers had grown close without Jason there. Jason breathed a sigh of relief. The brat might be… well a brat. But he deserved a big brother. Apparently, Nightwing's protective instincts had won out over Damian's prickliness. Things were as they should be.

"Robin? I expected him to choose something more intimidating."

Nightwing looked around. He noted the presence of the guards around them.

"I tell you why once you be out. Robin have his first night out tonight."

"Then I won't know for a long time."

Nightwing pursed his lips in unhappiness again. He did that a lot around Jason.

"So, the speedster? You two a thing again?"

Talking about Wally would always cheer N up. At least, if they were an item again. If they weren't, Jason would need to brace himself for tears.

"We fix. We visit every week", Nightwing beamed.

Jason sighed in relief.

"Long distance?", Jason asked.

"Distance not mean much with Flash."

"He's never been Flash though."

"He be Flash in my heart."

"You're such a sucker, N."

Jason was making a joke out of it. He wondered though if he would ever find someone who adored him as much as Nightwing adored Wally. Jason shook his head. He was being foolish. There was no place for attachments in prison.

Nightwing raised his hands, signing: 'My offer still stand.'

Jason replied, careful that his signing was obscured from the cameras: 'I need this, N. I'm sorry.'

'I not expect different.'

'I'm just glad you are here. It's good to know the family is doing well. That's all I ever wanted for you.'

'We want you with us.'

'B?'

'He not know yet, but he want make up with you.'

Jason lowered his hands. He doubted that Bruce would ever want that. But he wasn't eager to argue with N again.

'How you feel, J? I need know that you okay here.'

Jason thought of the quiet nights in his one-person cell. The bland food. The hard work in the prison's laundry.

'I'm doing good, N. Don't worry about me.'

Nightwing tilted his head, searching Jason's face for a lie. His fingertips twitched towards his palms when he found something he didn't like.

'Fine. I will be okay', Jason signed.

With enough time, he would learn to stand himself as a person again. With enough time where he couldn't hurt anyone.

'I not like but I accept, J.'

"Time is up", the guard with the blue gun said.

Nightwing nodded and stood up.

He signed at Jason: 'I visit often for real now. I promise.'

Jason nodded. He watched Nightwing leave. This time, he believed the promise.

His own guard led Jason back to the cell.

"You two are strange", the guard said, "How do you even know each other?"

Jason decided to humor the man: "We saved each other."

"I don't see Red Hood saving people."

And that was the problem.

Jason tensed: "Red Hood doesn't. But I will."

The guard hummed. He led Jason back into his cell.

"Good luck with that", the guard said and left.

Jason remained alone on his cot. His chest felt lighter now. He wasn't completely alone anymore. A part of him craved the connection even if it was selfish. He would hold on to it in his dark place. Cherish it as something precious – because it was. Jason had taken too long but he saw it now.

Everyone had gotten what they deserved.

AN: I promised you a bittersweet ending and you got one! Poor Jason. But he's healing. At least, the Titans, Damian, Wally and Nightwing are doing pretty well. And most importantly: The main character of the universe Josh finally has a name. :,)

Just let me say a final thank you to everyone who followed along on this ride. It's absolutely amazing that anyone would read this behemoth of a story. And an even bigger thank you to those of you who take the time to comment. I read all your comments and I'm answering all of them – even if I'm a bit behind. You people are amazing and I love the nice community and the discussions we have here! This is the first time I'm truly happy with any sequel I wrote. It was an unbreakable curse for me before with my original work so finishing this story means a lot to me.

You may have picked up on it, but I actually have a plan for part three. I just need a few months to get it on paper because I don't want to make you all wait so much between chapters and I want to make sure that all the storylines I'm juggling work. You wouldn't want a crisis to happen (wink at all the comic readers). So, if that sounds interesting to you, I hope to see you again at part three. If not, I'm honored that anyone would make it until here. Wishing everyone who reads this the best!