Work Text:
Oswald Cobblepot sits in the aviary, peaceful. It has been a little over a month since Edward told him that he could be aromantic. He lets out a contented little quack as he watches the birds fly around, their whistles and squawks filling the air. A beautiful starling lands on his finger, and he softly pats its head.
Amidst the symphony of birdsong, he hears the door quietly click open, and soft footsteps approaching, until Edward Nygma is sat next to him. Clad in his green spandex, sat next to the smiling ornithologist, the birds recognise him, and his trustworthy companion leads a green pigeon to claim him as one of their own, and land on his shoulder. The Riddler nervously glances at the pigeon, before relaxing. He lets out a little giggle as it gently pecks his cheek. Oswald smiles.
“He’s being friendly,” the Penguin chuckles. Edward’s eyes scan the pigeon, glancing around at all the other birds. There are only two species of bird in the whole aviary.
“I see… you made your own riddle, eh?” he chuckles. Oswald smiles at his friend. “Treron aromaticus. Aromantic.”
A nod from Oswald confirms his observation. Edward glances around, at the whirling purple colours in the air, and the beautiful bird in Oswald’s hand. He gives a knowing nod as he examines the purple, white, and black feathers. “And… I’m presuming this is a violet-backed starling? With a… beautiful colour scheme. Asexual?”
Oswald Cobblepot nods, grinning. Edward Nygma smiles back.
“I’m so happy you could solve the riddle of your feelings,” Edward says.
“I could never have faced it without you, my dear friend.”