Note: This is the first time I've updated a multi-chapter fic in one day! My inspiration is on a roll with this one!

Master Richard Expresses Interest

—-

Alfred –

Would you take the pile of paperwork on my desk to the Gotham Academy admissions office?

- B

—-

Master Bruce,

Of course. Have you found yourself a scholarship-worthy student yet?

Sincerely,

Alfred

P.S. I think it might be worth mentioning that Master Richard has spent an inordinate time in your personal study. I suspect he's up to something.

—-

Alfred –

No, not yet. I still have to hear back from Gotham Academy. I skimmed over the applications, but the admissions staff has to determine whether the students qualify for the scholarship. After that, I'll make the final decision.

Yes, I know, but he's not up to anything. Dick volunteered to help me with some research on a Riddler case. At this point, he's better with computers than I am.

- B

—-

Alfred –

The head admissions counselor said they received the paperwork, but I think you left one form behind on accident. I placed it on the kitchen island so you can deliver that as well.

- B

—-

Master Bruce,

I don't recall seeing more than twenty-one applications on your desk. However, if that is the case, how embarrassing and very unlike me. I'll stop by the admissions office after I drop Master Richard off at school.

Sincerely,

Alfred

P.S. Master Richard was carrying a file when he last entered your office, but did not have one in hand when he came out. Out of curiosity, I examined the contents of the file you found on your desk. Do you recall seeing one Artemis Crock in your pool of applicants?

—-

Alfred –

No, I don't remember seeing Crock's application, but I wasn't paying close attention to what I was reading either.

And it seems several secure files on the Cave computer were recently hacked into.

Coincidence?

- B

—-

Master Bruce,

Sir, I think not.

Sincerely,

Alfred

—-

Alfred –

I don't understand it. I was very careful about covering my tracks after conducting that background check on Artemis Crock. How did Dick find out about this, and how did he know exactly where to look for the information he wanted? Why was he so interested?

I wanted to honor Crock's desire for secrecy, and now her cover is blown. This could ruin the Team's dynamic.

- B

—-

Master Bruce,

It is quite likely I was not the only person who saw the file you left in the kitchen a week ago. Master Richard might have also found some other lead or clue. You've gotten sloppy as of late.

The only thing unusual about the situation is Master Richard's level of curiosity. If my memory serves me right, he hasn't investigated one of your personal background checks before.

Should I call our computer technician to update your level of security?

Sincerely,

Alfred

P.S. Sir, if you have taught Master Richard anything, it is the art of taking secrets to the grave. I'm sure he won't find reason to reveal his knowledge about Miss Crock until the occasion calls for it. Personally, I am quite pleased to see Master Richard express a healthy interest in an attractive young woman. Considering his repugnant attitude towards Miss Gordon and the degree of intimacy he has developed in his friendship with Master West, I was a little concerned about him.

—-

Alfred –

"A healthy interest?" That's ridiculous. Dick's behavior towards Gordon's daughter is typical for his age, and as for his background check of Crock, I've simply taught Dick to know the people he's working with. This move on his part is actually quite brilliant. With Crock at Gotham Academy, it will be easier to keep an eye on her.

No, don't waste my money. Dick will just figure out how to hack the system again, and then we'll have to install a new security program.

- B

—-

Master Bruce,

Shall I remind you that you exhibited similar behavior when you developed a romantic interest in Miss Kyle and Miss al Ghul? You would not rest until you knew everything about them, and had you been a young man like Master Richard, I have no doubt you would have concocted a similar scheme.

I am absolutely sure he planted this application file in your office to make it seem like it was your idea to enroll Miss Crock in your scholarship program. By the tone of your most recent reply, I believe he succeeded.

Sincerely,

Alfred

P.S. Master Richard may not be your cognate son, but he has developed some of your mannerisms and habits. Perhaps even your taste for women with a mottled past.

—-

Alfred –

Hm. Should I play along then?

- B

—-

Master Bruce,

Why not? It will be interesting to see what move Master Richard makes next. At the very least, the consequent developments should be entertaining.

Sincerely,

Alfred

—-

A.N. If you're wondering, "Isn't Dick reading these notes?" or "Why would Bruce and Alfred gossip about Dick when he might read what they're saying?" don't worry! Your questions will be answered in Part 3.