Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Danny Phantom wasn’t a stranger to danger. As the half-ghost protector of Amity Park, he had faced everything from rogue ghosts to world-ending threats. But nothing could have prepared him for the relentless pursuit of the Guys in White.

It started on a routine patrol over the city. Nothing eventful happened, just chasing a mischievous poltergeist back into the Infinite Realms. He didn't even have a chance to sigh in relief when a sudden burst of energy slammed into his back. It stung, but Danny was able to stay in the air. His body tensed as he searched around him for where it came from. 

Danny's ghost sense wasn't going off. So it had to be human. It wasn't his parents. They knew nothing about stealth, nor did they have the best aim. Danny was trying to figure out who else would attack like this when he caught a glimpse of the familiar white coat of the GIW. 

Without warning, the air around him erupted with beams of ecto-energy. The barrage was chaotic, all streams of fire criss crossing in a lettal pattern. He only had enough time to dodge one or two, the rest burning his skin. Their weaponry was advancing and fast. Too fast. 

“Shit-” Danny sucked in a breath, frantically searching for a way out when suddenly he was hit again. The weaponry was stronger. Each hit burned deeper into his skin, like the weapons were designed specifically for him. For Phantom. They advanced themselves way too much since the last time Danny encountered them, they must have been working on these weapons for months.

Danny darted through the shots, his intangibility flickering. The beams were relentlessly, not letting him have a moment to think. His intangibility faltered as a beam grazed his shoulder, leaving a harsh burn. A second one hit struck his side, the pain sharp and radiating like fire. As he flew back to dodge another, the last blast hit him right in the head. 

The world immediately became a blur, tilting violently. A white-hot pain filled the back of Danny's eyes. His flight failed on him as he was immediately being pulled towards the ground at deadly speeds, the wind roaring in his ears.

He hit the ground with a crunch.

The pain was unlike anything he’d ever felt before. His skin burned from the ecto-energy blast from the weapons. His body felt broken in ways he never knew it could be. His vision blurred as figures in white suits closed in around him, their weapons humming with anti-ghost energy.

He tried to fight, but his powers faltered, his body heavy and sluggish. It wasn’t just exhaustion—they had hit him with something different, something meant to neutralize him completely. Before he could phase away, cold metal cuffs that buzzed with a familiar energy snapped around his wrists, and a sharp prick in his neck plunged him into darkness.

When Danny woke up, he was strapped to a table in a sterile, blindingly white room. The air reeked of antiseptic, and the faint hum of machines filled his ears. His suit had vanished, replaced by thin medical scrubs that felt foreign against his skin. The cuffs remained, glowing faintly with ectoplasmic energy. Panic surged as he tugged against the restraints, but they held firm. Danny quickly realized that his powers weren't of any use. When he tried to phase through the cuffs, he was immediately hit by a wave of electricity, causing Danny to let out a panicked gasp and groan of pain. 

"Ah, you're awake," a cold voice drawled. A man in a white lab coat stepped into view, flanked by GIW agents with weapons at the ready. The man's eyes gleamed with a detached curiosity that sent a chill down Danny’s spine. "Subject Number 104. Fascinating specimen, aren’t you? Holding more power than any other ghost we've captured... You’ll help us unlock secrets we’ve only dreamed of."

Over the next few weeks, the experiments began. The GIW subjected Danny to relentless tests, probing the limits of his ghostly physiology. They drained his energy and inflicted pain to observe his regenerative capabilities. They cut him open like a lab experiment, as if his organs held the secrets they desperately craved from him. Danny hated how they were treating him as if he were merely a toy to play with. 

Each day blurred into the next, a haze of agony and exhaustion. Danny stopped keeping track of the days. Time was just an endless cycle of torment anyway. It's not like he could ever leave the torture no matter how long he was here. He couldn’t transform back into his human self—they had suppressed that ability somehow, leaving him trapped in his ghost form, vulnerable and exposed. He knew no sleep, only passing out when it became unbearable, only to be forced back into waking up and going through everything again. And again. And again. 

Danny would be strapped to the table, wide awake for any and all of it. Because ghosts weren't sentient. They didn't feel pain or actual emotions. Despite the screams that made Danny's lungs burn. Despite the red liquid oozing out of him as they cut his skin wide open. They only gave him enough ectoplasm to heal so they could do more damage. Never enough to give him a chance. To them, Phantom, or even Danny Fenton—just 'Subject 104,' a nameless anomaly strapped to their table.

Danny felt like his half-life was being drained from him by the second. He lost hope in ever being able to leave. It's not like he could. But even as his strength dwindled, something deep inside him refused to break. A faint, inexplicable force that kept his core pulsing with a small thread of life, even when it seemed impossible. It was there, telling him had to persevere, had to get out, he just needed the right moment. That time may never come. And Danny feared it never would.

They took so many precautions with him, even when they had him at their mercy. The moment he tabled into his core at any time, an electrical current shot through him. One he could feel in his very veins. And when they “feed” him, it was more like charging your phone to 20 percent just so it didn't die on you.

There was no escape.

Months passed in this hellish cycle until one night when the experiments ceased for a moment, and he felt it—a surge of determination and power, unbidden and wild, roaring through him like a raging storm. Danny didn’t know what it was, but took it as a chance and tapped into the sudden power. The power exploded from his core, shattering the cuffs, short-circuiting the machines, and sending the guards into a chaotic mess. The temperature dropped deadly low. Ice danced across the walls and floors, freezing the liquids scattered around the room.

For the first time in months, Danny stood unbound. His legs trembled, his body weak, but his determination burned brighter than ever. He looked around the room, a green rage burning in his core. Danny's glowing eyes glared at the guards while they were readying themselves to fight, the alarms already blaring around the building.   

 He didn’t know where the strength had come from, but he wasn’t about to waste it fighting. Summoning what little energy he had left, he phased through the walls and into the night. He could hear faintly at orders being shouted over the alarms, but ignored all of it as he was able to feel the cool night air touch his skin. His powers glitched and his core squeezed tightly. Danny finally felt relief as he was able to transform back into human. He took a split moment to look around the outside before choosing a direction to bolt away, pushing his more frail human body past its limits. Danny was not able to ruin the only chance he had to escape. 

The GIW facility was surrounded by buildings taller than he'd ever seen, but Danny didn’t stop running until he was miles away. Exhaustion clawed at him, but the thought of freedom—and survival—kept him moving. Eventually, he stumbled into a shadowed alleyway. The neon lights above him flickered, and the dual skyline loomed like jagged teeth. He stumbled for a while, trying to find out where he was. 

Danny found a nasty-looking newspaper, grabbing it with trembling hands. The ink smudge under his fingertips as he scans the page, his vision blurred from exhaustion. He read the first thing that could lead to finding out where he was. 

Gotham.

It wasn’t home. It didn't even feel remotely safe. But it was far enough from the GIW, and that was enough for now. Danny slumped against a brick wall, his chest rattling with every breath he took. He slid down the wall. His limbs ached, his core hurt more than any extortion of his power ever has. He stared up at the sky, frowning at the overcast of pollution. He didn’t know how he’d survive in this crime-infested city, but one thing was certain.

He would never let himself be captured again.

***

Danny wasn't sure howling he was sitting there leaning against the wall, but he knew he should start moving soon, wanting to create more space between him and the GIW's facility as much as his frail conditions were going to let him. 

He sucks in a breath, pulling himself up. His whole body hurt, dried blood and ectoplasm covering his skin. His feet stung with how much he ran. And he needed to find clothes. Some actual clothes to help him fit in more instead of shrubs that made him look like he just escaped the hospital mid-treatment. 

Danny walked for a while. His perception of time was horrible currently. It's not like he could see the stars or moon, or even the sky at all, through the thick cloud of pollution up above Gotham. He made sure to stick and hide in the shadows, not being seen by any passersby or cameras. 

The buildings in Gotham were large, tall, and dark academic. It was nerve-racking how difficult it was to Amity. Of course, Danmy had to get stuck in ‘Emo city’ of all places. He'd have to find all the ins and outs of the place and try to avoid Gotham's vigilantes as much as possible. The last thing Danny needs is getting on the Bat's radar.

Danny crept into another alley, his eyes, devoid of any emotion, landed on a trash bin. He held his breath as the rotten stench hit him. This was so gross. But he pulled through and rummaged through it as quietly as possible. It sucked, but Danny wasn't about to steal clothes, though it'd be easier than digging through every trash bin he found in hopes something was in there. Pride had no place when it came to survival.

His hands trembled as he shifted through the bin. His fingers grazed across several unknown substances, causing Danny to hold back a gag at the sensation. ‘Just don't think about it, just don't think about it, just dont—’ Danny repeatedly told himself as he continued his search.

Upsettingly, this bin held nothing of use to Danny. He bit the inside of his cheek as he wobbled over to a different trash bin, holding his breath as he dived in and repeated the process. 

A few times after doing this in various places, Danny officially found a pair of pants that fit around the waist and thighs. However, they were too short in terms of length, baring his ankles to the world. He also found a shirt! It was short-sleeved, so it didn't at all hide the scars and injuries crawling up his arms. But it hid most of it, which was fine. Another con of these clothes is that Danny was pretty sure someone died in them. They reeked with death, and there was blood splattered in several areas. 

'Note to self: try not to think of how someone 100% died in these.’ He grimaced. Danny would find something better soon, hopefully. Along with a pair of shoes. 

“Okay..” He muttered to himself, his voice harsh against his throat. He mentally checked his goal of getting clothes. ‘Step 2, shelter.’ He glanced around the alleyway. This was Gotham, bound to have more than enough abandoned buildings and hiding spots. Danny just had to find one. 

He stumbled out of the alley and continued down the road, sticking to the shadows. Dammy could feel the cold air nip at his skin, making his core buzz weakly. All his senses were fucked and turned up high.

He could hear the wailing of sirens in the distance and the smell of gunpowder around every corner. The only thing that threw Danny off was the people, or lack thereof. There was a few people, but they seemed so on edge and dangerous. And the few cars that passed were speeding, probably 30 over whatever set speed limit.

Danny passed another alley when a rusty old fire escape catches his eye. 

Danny crept towards it, groaning as he realized it was too high up for him to reach. He thought for a moment before taking a step back. Danny glanced around to make sure he was alone, then leaped and grabbed the bottommost ladder. 

Danny's arms trembled violently as struggled to haul himself up. His palms struggled to get a grip, slipping against the cold metal. His body was screaming at him, but he refused to let go and was somehow able to pull himself up enough to stand. He took a much needed breather, his body shaking from the extortion of his strength. 

‘I should've just found someplace different..’ He cursed at himself, gripping tightly at the ladder before very slowly climbing up and onto the fire escape. He continued upward till he reached one of the top-floor windows. It was thankfully unlocked, but needed a little strength —that Danny didn’t have to spare— to open. 

Danny snuck himself inside, not bothering to close the window as he made a quick ‘is this place safe’ check. It was an empty apartment, unsurprisingly. It was dusty, and a bit moldy, but overall would work for now. It was shelter. And it had a couch. Danny was not complaining. 

He took a moment to stare into a broken mirror found in the bathroom. His raven hair was in disarray, covered in dirt and all clamped together. His bright, blue eyes glowed through a thick white strand of hair plastered on his forehead. Danny frowned at the way you could see his injuries, and how none of them looked close to being healed, barely started to scab over. His skin was dirty with blood, gunk and dirt. You could see his bones through his skin. He wasn't obviously malnourished back in Amity, but you could see it now.

Danny shook his head, not trying to worry about the way he looks right now. He staggered back into the living room, staring at the couch. It was dead center in the room. It would be better by one of the corners.

He wouldn’t bother with moving the couch in a more secluded spot, he was too exhausted to use any more of his nonexistent strength. He plopped on to the dusty couch, finding it wasn’t very cushioned at all. His body felt immediate relief for not having to hold him up, especially his feet. They stung from the endless running, no doubt now covered in dirt and impaled with small pieces of glass and rock. But the rest of it screamed from the pressure. No position would make him comfortable when his skin was burnt from the blast and sore from the cuts and electricity.  

Danny was starving, and hurting. He blinked weakly, staring at the wall furthest from him. He needed food. Gotham had ectoplasm in the air, not as much as Amity had(no place did), and not near enough to keep himself sustained while he healed. He'd need to find actual food. 

Danny closed his eyes, his chest heaved and his limbs felt heavy with pain. Finding food was a priority. But that was a future Danny problem. Right now, Danny needed rest. He pulled his knees to his chest, hissing slightly but overall found a not-at-all but still some-what comfortable position. Horrors from the past few months raced across his mind. The knives that cut into him, the hands that felt around his organs, the disgusted gazes being glued onto him 24/7. 

But Danny was free. Finally free for the first time in Ancients know how long. Danny sucked in a large breath, his ribs hurting in the process, and breathed out. He'd be fine. Just don't get caught. Danny pushed back the thoughts and tried to rest.

It barely took a second for everything to go black. 

Chapter Text

The sounds of sirens and cars screeching in the distance woke Danny from his much-needed rest. The smell of mildew and mold immediately filled his nose as he opened his eyes. The halfa looked around the dusty room, with a light now illuminating the apartment.  

Danny blinked, his vision still hazy. For the first time in months, Danny was allowed a moment to breathe. His lungs pushed against his bruised ribs, air flowing through him at a steady pace. It was grounding. Reassuring. He was free. That's what mattered. 

He pushed himself off his makeshift bed, only for his legs to immediately threaten to give out underneath him. He steadied himself, staying still for a few minutes as he let the dizziness pass. 

Once confident he could stand, Danny shuffled over to the open window, peering out at Gotham in daylight for the first time. The sun was already halfway across the sky. It was afternoon, well on its way to evening. Which meant Danny slept for well over 12 hours.. Maybe? Time had become disorienting to Danny. 

There were definitely more people out, and it was much louder too. Or maybe Daanny was just paying more attention now.

He blinked then looked down at himself, grimacing as he did. The blood-splattered clothes he'd stolen from the trash were torn in several places, but still served a use in its purpose. His feet were still bare, red and raw from his time running the night before.

Signing, Danny turned back into the apartment. He rummaged around the place in search of anything of use. Dust and mold greeting him behind every corner.

“So, today's agenda. Food.” Danny's voice was raspy, and he sounded dead on his feet. It hurt to talk, so he just whispered. “And a pair of shoes. Definitely shoes.” 

He found himself in the bathroom once more, standing before the broken mirror. His eyes drifted down to the grimmy sink. It was covered in mold– which, yuck –but he decided to give the faucet a go. And to absolutely nobody's surprise, it didn't work!! “And water. Preferably running.” He muttered, wobbling back to the main room. 

This would be fine. Danny had been taking care of himself for two years now—because Jazz moved away for college and hasn't been back since—he can take care of himself now. Just with a little extra precautions. 

With that in mind, Danny carefully climbed out the window, ignoring the protest his body made in the process. He descended down the fire escape, awkwardly jumping down onto the broken pavement. A jolt of pain shot through him, making Danny wince. He glared up at the fair escape. Helpful in giving him a place to rest, but so painful at the same time. 

No one in the alley, thankfully. He took a moment to memorize his surroundings, marking it a safe spot to come back too. Danny paused where the alley met the sidewalk. He expected it to be harder to be noticed in broad daylight, but no one spared him a glance. Even when a presumed young adult is literally covered in blood. Danny was both relieved yet unsettled. 

Danny stuck to the walls, staying cautious as he searched for something useful—a clothing store, a convenience store, a soup kitchen, a homeless shelter. Hell, a restaurant would work, he's already dug through trash, he could do it again. 

Danny walked for a while, taking turns and simply scouting the area out. Gothams air was reeked with smog, gunpowder, weed, urine and any other disgusting substance you could think of. And it didn't help that everyone felt dangerous in some way. It was overwhelming Danny's already fucked senses. He was pretty sure he passed an alley with an active mugging, and not one person cared. This place was nothing like Amity.

He knew Gotham was infested with crime, but this seemed like too much. Maybe it was just the part of Gotham he was in? He knew of the different districts, and he wouldn't put it past the GIW to set up in literally the most dangerous part of Gotham. He'd have to explore more outside of the area to be sure.

Danny paused outside of a deli. The smell wafting out was like heaven, making his stomach growl at the thought of food. Danny was NOT below stealing, he's done it before and probably will have to do it again. 

The only problem? It was broad fucking daylight. And Danny was around, what? 6 feet tall now? And he was in the most recognizable attire currently. There was no way he'd be able to steal and get away with it, especially with so many people around.

So. Danny resolved to come back after dark and see if he could break in, maybe still a sandwich or two. Which would last him a little over a week, maybe more if he savored them. 

Danny continued to walk, hunching shoulders and shrinking into himself, instinctively trying to make himself smaller and less noticeable.

A gunshot rang through the air, startling Danny. He paused, while Gotham's residents barely flinched. It was loud, and nearby. But nobody seemed to care enough to do something about it, like a random shot was just part of their routine.

Amity was like that in the sense that if a ghost attacked, no one would cause a scene—just up and leave, let Phantom deal with it. It wasn’t really an attack, just a regular thing to happen in his hometown. But Danny felt like a gunshot was a little different than that.

“Ancients..” Danny muttered, then started to walk faster, away from the active gun. Absolutely insane work in Danny's opinion. He sighed, softly shaking his head and trying not to think about it too hard. This place wasn't Amity, nowhere near. It would take years for Danny to get used to this, if he survived long enough to get to that point. 

Danny paused by a convenience store, staring at it expectantly. He took a quick glance inside. The cashier? On her phone and not paying any attention. People? Zero, zilch, noda. He held his breath and bit the inside of his cheek. 

Should he steal..? No. No he shouldn't. But would he in the name of survival? In a fucking heartbeat. Danny dipped into the alley nearby, finding himself by an exit door. He didn't trust his powers, with the way his core pulsed weakly inside him, Danny didn’t doubt that everything would go south. 

So, his next best option? Going in the back door. Which was.. unlocked? And out of the cashiers view! Not that the lady was paying attention. His footsteps were quiet, and he made sure not to touch anything that would make noise. Like he's done this a thousand times before. 

Danny's eyes zeroed in on a rack of sandals as he glanced around the isle. Grimacing at the poor quality, he grabbed a pair that looked close enough to his size and ducked out of sight to slip them on. They fit well enough, though the rough texture irritated his sore feet. Still, they were better than nothing.

Next, he moved to the refrigerated section, debating whether to risk using his intangibility to avoid making noise. With a deep breath, Danny pulled at his overly strained core, grimacing as pain flared immediately. He phased his hand through the glass and grabbed a bottle of water, the effort leaving him feeling even weaker. Guilt gnawed at him for stealing, but survival came first. Clutching the bottle, Danny slipped out the back door as quietly as he'd entered. 

Danny quickly walked out of the alley, not wanting to stick around to be found out. He looked up at the sky, trying to gauge what time it was through the cloud of pollution. It seemed like the sun was going down, indicating nightfall was soon upon them. Great. Perfect. Danny walked back to his alley, passing the deli once again.

He found his latter, glanced around before jumping and pulling himself up. He had to use one hand, seeing as the other was holding the water bottle. And it stung. This would be a great workout if Danny wasn't already in so much pain. 

Danny made his way back to his hideout. He debated whether or not to use some of the water to clean with. He inevitably decided against using it. Every drop mattered. Survival first, hygiene later. Danny finally took a drink out of it. The cool liquid immediately relieved his throat. 

Danny sighed, shaking his head gently. He just now realized he should've grabbed a med kit or supplies. Medicine doesn't work on him, but covering up his wounds would be better than letting them get infected. He pulled a hand up to his face and groaned into it. 

He's already stolen–and plans to steal– enough. He can live with a little infection, not like it won't heal. Priorities first! And Danny's highest priority is food.

Food is the holy grail right now. And Danny knows just how to get it. 

He walked back to the window, placing the water down on his couch on his way, and climbed out of it. He sat on the fire escape, far enough to see and not be noticed. He'd need to wait for night, so in the meantime, Danny would watch the people of Gotham and simply observe. 

***

It was way past the sun setting. But Danny was stuck in place as he focused on the cool wind blowing against his skin. It grounded him some, letting him know he was still somewhat alive, even if he didn't feel it. 

He closed his eyes breathing in the air. It was full of pollution and smelt like crap, but it calmed Danny. Those months with the GIW smelt like a hospital, out here it smelt like freedom. 

Danny sighed, standing up and getting down to the alley, figuring he should get a move on. He walked, not letting the pain in his body show in its movements. One thing Danny has learned about Gotham so far, is that her people show no vulnerability.

His eyes darted to every little movement, his senses on high alert. There were even less people out tonight than there was last. It made Danny even more cautious. And it didn't help that his core buzzed with a familiar sensation that Danny couldn't quite put his fingure on.

Danny made his way back to the deli, staring at the glass wall in front of him. He bit the inside of his cheek as he tried to open the door for shits and giggles. It was obviously locked. His powers were out is the question–his core still stung from earlier. That left brute force, which was risky.

“Here goes nothing .” He muttered, preparing himself before slamming his shoulder into the door. 

It flew open upon impact with a loud bang, sending Danny flying into the building. “Shit‐” that stung. He bit back a groan of pain. Great. That probably made a bit of noise, so he'd have to be fast before someone came investigating. 

Danny was in and out of there within 5 minutes. He was able to find a small bag and acquire 2 whole sandwiches! Hell yeah!!! 

He stepped out of the store, eyeing the street to make sure he was safe before leaving, he made sure to dart through alleyways to be extra safe.

When he was just two turns away from his hideout, he heard something heavy land behind him. And buzz in his core grew immensely. Danny finally realized it as his ghost sense..?

His whole body jerked, assuming a defensive position as he turned around. The figure was in the shadows, but Danny could tell they were tall, around the same height as Danny. But, unlike Danny, this figure was broad. And seemed to be all muscles. They were wearing a helmet, a jacket and yet Danny could still tell they were equipped with so many different weapons.

Shit.

Danny was in Crime Alley—at least, he assumed so. And as far as he's aware, there's only one vigilante that resonates in Crime Alley. And that vigilante, from what little Danny knew, fit the exact description of what the figure looks like.

Red Hood.

Danny instinctively took a step back, the air around them dropping a few degrees in temperature as the tension grew. Of all things Danny wanted to avoid— The GIW and the Bats were the top of his list. With Fenton luck, he'd obviously had to have a run in with one of them some time. And it had to be the most aggressive of the Bats. 

“Um–” Danny was going to say something, but flinched as the vigilante took a step closer. Immediately making the 18 year old shut up. Because what the hell? He didn't even do anything to warrant this meeting. Do vigilantes care that much about stealing??? This is Gotham for crying out loud. It probably happens a bazillion times a day.

Also, why did his ghost sense go off? It was faint, but it was still there. Danny frowned deeply. Red Hood didn't seem like a ghost, and he didn't feel like another halfa. So what was it?

“What the hell are you doing out so late?” Red Hood's voice was deep and disoriented by a voice module. “And in blood-soaked clothes, no less?” The unspoken accusation hit Danny like a train, making the boy step back. All the hairs on his body were standing, the tension in the air could be cut with a butter knife.

Chapter Text

Patrol was uneventful, the night oddly quiet. And the pit was acting up. It's been more chaotic lately, the pit. Like something in the air has changed. And tonight it's just been worse. 

Jason didn’t notice at first. The pit’s agitation crept in subtly, only making itself known when it hit him full force. And green-tinted thoughts creeped into every waking moment. He was more easily agitated. Jason felt ready to explode—like those first chaotic years after his resurrection. 

Jason was walking across a roof, scanning the area when a shadow caught his eye. The shadow was close to the wall, only coming into view when hit by the streetlights. The sound of their footsteps were nonexistent. Jason felt a strange tug in his chest. It was eerily familiar. The pit churned in response, uneased and sharp.

Jason followed the figure from above, he jumped between rooftops as it darted through alleys. The more he watched, the more he noticed the blood soaked clothing—fresh and undeniable. He gritted his teeth. What the hell was this shadow getting themselves into? 

Jason finally decided on jumping down, startling the shadow to a stop. He could finally get a good look at the shadow—a kid, maybe young adult. He looked to be Replacement’s age, around Jason's height, lanky and malnourished lookin’. The scars and wounds that crawled up the kid's exposed skin stirred something deep within Jason. Not to mention the state of those clothes. 

Jason knew better than to assume this was just simple homelessness. And the fact that Jason—more so the pit—felt pulled to this kid seemed more than a coincidence. 

The air around them dropped in temperature. It felt heavy and suffocating in a way, putting Jason on edge. But the boy didn't seem bothered. Did he cause it? Was this kid some meta? Is that why he was running? 

The kid stammered a bit, and Jason couldn't help but take a step closer. The boy closed himself off. Making Jason mentally curse at himself, the kid was scared, obviously. And he knew he wasn't making it any better. But this pull was throwing him off, and Jason would be damned if he ignored the fact this kid looked beyond abused.

“What the hell are you doing out so late?” Jason's tone came out sharper than he intended. “And in blood-soaked clothes, no less?” Jason could feel the tension in the air grow as he waited for the kid's response.

It took a few long, straining minutes before the boy spoke up again, shifting in place. “I.. I was just out for a walk..” The boy rasped, voice raw, like he hadn't had water—or rest—in days.

Jason raised an eyebrow under his helmet. “Of course, ‘cause Gotham's the best place to be walking out at night alone.” Jason retorted. 

He saw the kid stiffen more, bright blue eyes searching for an out, looking everywhere but to where Jason's eyes were. “Well,.” The boy shifted, “Yeah.. well, I'm new.. Just trying to, y'know.. learn my way around..” 

Jason made a noise in understanding. It didn't sound like a straight up lie. “Right. Crime Alley usually is a great spot for sightseeing. ‘specially at night. Real fun.” His tone was sarcastic as he held in a chuckle.

The kid hesitated a little, as if just realizing something. The kid didn't know he was in Crime Alley, or at least not a hundred percent sure. “Yeah.. yeah..” The kid clutched something in his hand. Sounded like a bag. 

Jason watched the kid’s every calculated move—every word and step chosen carefully, too carefully. That type of calculation was more than a street kid. It was familiar, enough to stir the pit in Jason’s chest. He wasn’t sure why, but he felt an obligation to help this kid, as foreign as the feeling was. 

“Do you need new clothes?” He finally settled on. The kid looked beyond skeptical, which yeah Jason understood completely. The vigilante held up his hands and stepped forward more again. The kid was ready to bolt, and Jason was horrible with people. This was going to go amazingly!

“Er- yeah.. But why should I trust you?” Damn it. The kid had a point. Jason grimaced and turned around. He wanted to talk more, but he knew better than to push the kid into a conversation. “You shouldn't.” Jason shrugged and walked out of the alley, keeping an eye on the kid. “But the offer's there. Those clothes are bloody, and I bet they don't even fit,” He gestured to the way the pants were too short. “I might have something that'll fit. Up to you.” Jason wouldn't lead the kid to his apartment. That'd be stupid. But he had safe houses, all held extra clothes. 

Jason waited, seeing the gears turn in the other's head. Jason sighed, then started to walk again, if the kid followed, he followed. If not, Jason would try again another day. He could practically feel the pull a mile away. It wouldn't be too hard.

He walked for a few more moments before turning around, just to see. Jason was pleasantly surprised to see the kid following. He was quiet, a little too quiet. But it was good to see the kid trusting him enough. 

Jason smirked underneath his helmet, but didn't say anything more. Grappling would be faster, but neither of them trusted the other enough for that. 

“So, kid,” Jason broke the silence after a few minutes, “You got a name, or am I sticking with ‘kid’?” It was silent before Jason headed hurried steps beside him. He glanced over to see the kid give him a side eye. 

“I'm 18. Not exactly kid material if you ask me. Try again.” He shrugged, seeming to let loose a little bit, but still kept himself hiden. Jason grunted, a habit he learned from Bruce. “So, I'm sticking with ‘Kid’ then.” 

The boy made a noise before grumbling something. “Hm?” Jason looked over at him. The kid sighed before speaking up. “Danny.. My name is Danny..” The kid, Danny, looked away. Jason chuckled, content with how this unfolded. 

“Red Hood.” Jason responded, eyes focusing back in front of them. 

“Well no shit.” Danny exasperated beside him. 

“Were you expecting a different name?”

“.. No.”

“Okay. Don't get snarky with me then.” Jason rolled his eyes. The pit felt calm, the air felt lighter. Still cold, but lighter. And with that, they were quiet the rest of the way.

***

Danny had zero clue of how he got himself into this situation. Yeah, he accepted Red Hood’s offer. But, he needed better clothes. Like the vigilante said, they were bloody and barely fit Danny. Maybe that was an oversight. Because as soon as they stepped into the warehouse, all Danny smelt was gunpowder and blood. 

He scrunched his nose up, but he followed through. Danny was already here, and he was also doing this for his own investigation. Red Hood felt ghostly. He wasn't wasn't a ghost, but Danny could feel the formation of a core. It was odd. And Danny was curious. He didn't expect to get far, but no use in trying. 

He watched the vigilante, listening to the small tour he was being given. “There's a bathroom behind that door,” He pointed in a general direction, “You can shower if you want. Don't gotta, but you should.” Danny could feel Hood's eyes on him behind the helmet, studying him. “I'll get you some clothes real quick.” The vigilante made a gesture behind himself before walking away. Danny didn't follow this time. 

He looked around the room he was left in. It had a couch, a table, he could see somewhat of a kitchen from this angle. Did the vigilante live here? Danny blinked. This place didn't feel lived in. He could see that it was used, but not a house. Was this like a safe house? Maybe. That would make more sense. Danny shrugged, it didn't matter to him. He wouldn’t be here long. 

Danny wandered around the room he was in, there were no visible weapons, but he could smell them hidden in every possible spot. If this wasn't paranoia, Danny didn’t know what was. And he knew paranoia, his parents a great example of it. But given that this is Gotham’s Crime Lord, Danny was sure this was normal. 

He ducked into the bathroom. God, he needed a shower. He hadn't had one in months. But Danny didn't trust this place enough. Red Hood's kidness was throwing Danny through a loop. And that pull. It felt familiar, like Danny was with other ghost. But Red Hood wasn't a ghost. He died, for sure, that core was proof of it. But not a ghost.

Danny sighed and ran a hand through his greasy hair. “Yuck...” He grimaced. He didn't know what to do. 

After a moment of hesitation, he turned the shower on and set his sandwiches aside before opening the door to find Red Hood. When found, the vigilante handed him a pile of clothes.

“Here you go kid. There's socks in the pile as well, I'll have to find shoes.” Red Hood nodded down to Danny's feet, causing the teen to wince and clutch the clothes at the call out. 

“There's a first aid kit in the bathroom cabinet when you're done showering. I'm sure you need it, and you have my permission to use it and anything else you find.” The module in the helmet made it hard to tell what his tone was, but Danny could hear the genuine worry. It was weird. Danny was so skeptical, he didn't trust this at all. No one was this kind. Did he really look that pathetic?

Danny frowned and took the clothes. He couldn't figure out what to say. So, he settled for a simple “Thank you..” Danny then backed away and turned to the bathroom and locked the door behind him. 

He sat the clean clothes on the counter and took no time to get undressed and step into the shower. It was lukewarm, and it irritated the wounds on Danny's body. He stared at the floor and watched the water swirl down the drain, dark with grime and blood, months of neglect washing away.

It would take a minute to get all of that off him without messing up the injuries trying to heal. So Danny took a half hour shower. And Danny has never felt any cleaner than he did now. 

He looked at himself in the mirror, and it was crazy how showering could make you look less dead. Now he was back to his old half dead self. Only problem with that, was the ‘Y’ stitched across Danny's front. Ancients, that would be fun to explain to someone that he lived through a vivisectomy. He glanced at all the gashes and cuts along his skin and frowned. 

His eyes drifted to the clothes and he pulled out the briefs and put them on. Then Danny grabbed the first aid in the cabinet to give it a look through. 

Medicine of any sort wouldn't work, so he didn't try with the antibiotics or the pain meds, but he did take the gauze and bandages. And did a horrible job of wrapping himself up in it. The gauze was loose and felt like it was about to unravel, and the band aids were useless with his injuries being too large. Danny sighed, it'd be fine. 

Onced dressed, Danny took a moment to view himself in the mirror. The long-sleeved shirt and pants both hung loose, but they were clean and soft. Even the socks felt nice, though they hurt with how they hugged his feet. 

Danny looked at himself some more, really taking in how much better he looked. He almost looked back to normal. Minus the fact that he had the worst eye bags ever. Even when in Amity they weren't this bad. He ran a hand through his hair, brushing it out idly. Now that it wasn't stuck together with grime and grease, his hair stuck out every which way. Disheaved, but normal for Danny. He gave a light hearted smile at the look. It felt good to know he still looked the same after being stuck in ghost form for so long. 

He shook his head. Danny didn’t want to think about any of that right now. 

He ran a hand through his hair again and grabbed his bag of sandwiches. Danny then walked back into the main room, glancing around for the vigilante. His core pulled softly, and Danny followed. The more he walked, the stronger the pull came. He was led to the kitchen, where Red Hood was setting some plates on the counter top, where on the edge sat a pair of red sneakers. The area smelt like eggs and chicken. The teen tilted his head. What an odd combination. Either way, Danny's stomach made a loud growl.

The vigilante looked up, the helmet staring at Danny. “You wanna sit down and eat?” He motioned to one of the plates and pulled out a skillet and loaded a plate with 2 fried eggs, and one with 3. Danny glanced between the two plates, then sighed as we went to take a seat at the counter, gabbing the shoes along the way.

“You eat with the helmet on?” Danny mused, putting the shoes on. He couldn’t see it, but he could feel the eye roll behind that helmet. 

Red Hood sat the skillet down, then pulled the helmet off. To reveal a full head of black hair, with a white streak plastered in front. The vigilante had a domino mask on, hiding any distinct features that could give away his actual identity.

“What the hell-?” Danny snorted, “What's the point of the helmet if you have a mask on underneath?” He raised an eyebrow and the vigilante just looked amused.

“Protection,” Hood replied simply. “If someone manages to get the helmet off, they still won’t know who I am.” And Danny couldn't help but agree with that logic. 

The vigilante pulled some cooked chicken out of nowhere— Danny wasn't in the shower long enough to cook chicken, was he? —and put some on the plates. Red Hood grabbed forks, and placed them on the plates. The teen instinctively reached for the one with 2 eggs, only for the vigilante to push the one with 3 towards him. 

Danny hesitated for a moment. His stomach was growling at him again, begging him to eat. Danny spared a glance up at the vigilante, who he could see was frowning down, then back down. Danny wasted no more time before eating. 

He knew to go slow when eating for the first time after months. But after that first bite, everything was gone within 2 minutes. And even then, Danny was holding back on scarfing the entire plate down in a second. 

Danny took a deep breath and leaned back, looking up at Red Hood, who was only halfway done with his plate. The vigilante was staring down, silently eating, before he paused and glanced up at the Teen. 

“There's more food in the fridge. Take whatever.” He waved his hand, then moved back to his own food. Danny shifted awkwardly. He didn't like taking food. Yeah, he stole some already, but still. Danny gritted his teeth and looked around. 

Danny wasn't near full, not that he planned on getting there, but that plate could only do so much with his already high metabolism plus needing to heal. But Danny had already overstayed his welcome. He simply grabbed his plate without a word and put it in the sink. He heard the vigilante shuffle and turned to see the other staring At him. 

“I think I should go.” Danny stated, and before Red Hood could protest, Danny grabbed his bag of sandwiches. “Thank you for the food and letting me shower.” He then darted out of the safe-warehouse. He heard the other following him until he left the warehouse. 

He turned and waved, yelling out his farewell. “Catch you later, Mister Not-a-ghost!” Danny smirked and dove to the shadows, avoiding any light and cameras that could track him. 

Danny knew that if the vigilante really wanted to, he could find and chase after him. If that formation of a core was anything to say about it. But still best to be safe when it comes to the other vigilantes, or law enforcement. 

***

Danny was back to his apartment after a detour or two. He was sure he wasn't being followed. But still. Better safe than sorry. 

He made his way up the rusty fire escape and through the familiar open window. Danny felt better than he did yesterday, all that sleep and the food he just consumed help his body heal a little. The aches were still there, but less so now. 

Danny sat down on the couch and looked at the sandwiches. They looked less appetizing now than they did earlier, but still smells nice. Danny's stomach growled again, making the ghost boy close the bag and put them down. He needed to save those, not knowing when he'd get the chance to get more food. 

He sighed and laid down, staring at the ceiling. Danny counted the cracks and holes as he recounted the events of today. He was able to get some food, a new pair of shoes, a meal, and he met one of Gotham's Bats. Who may or may not be a ghost. Danny thought Mister Not-a-Ghost was weird. 

No one shows a homeless kid their safe house—unless the vigilante felt the same pull Danny did? Assuming Hood didn’t know he was a ghost, it shouldn’t have been that easy to trust him. “Sure let's show this random funny feeling kid my safehouse!” Like, hello?? And Red Hood was the ruthless one. How would the other bats react to a runaway teen? Maybe the shower would help him pass under their radar.

Hopefully.

Danny flopped on his side, wincing slightly as the loose bandages shifted. The poor bandaging job was holding up okay, he might have to redo it in the morning. But right now, Danny was ready to pass out and fall asleep for another 12 hours. Like the nocturnal son of a gun he was. So he did just that.

Chapter Text

It's been a couple of days since Danny's interaction with Red Hood, and he's come to several conclusions. 

First, is that Red Hood was some form of undead creature. Danny was too out of tune with his ghost sense to be sure on what exactly, plus he wasn't with the vigilante for very long.

Secondly, Crime Alley was much smaller than the rest of Gotham, yet had the highest crime rate. He'd come across a map of Gotham yesterday. Massive place, by the way. Crime Alley wasn't small, but it was the smallest part. Danny had already passed by so many thieves and thugs, a pick pocket even tried to swipe at him. Joke’s on them; Danny had nothing. 

Thirdly, Danny needed a job. He couldn't live on his stolen sandwiches, and he didn't trust going back to that safehouse no matter how much he started to trust Red Hood. No telling what surveillance cameras were in there, and Danny didn’t want the other Bats knowing about him. 

Fourthly, for him to get a job Danny needed papers—ones that he didn’t, in fact, have. He was sure places around Crime Alley don't give a fuck about papers, but that just meant illegal activity. Seeing as Gotham is infamous for its drug rings, human trafficking, and other such things that Danny did not want to be caught in. So he needed to make his own in order to get something more legal and better paying to support his huge metabolism. 

Danny knew how to make fake documents—he'd watched Tucker do it once or twice for some of their contingency plans. Sadly Danny didn't have the ability to get those files, but thankfully he knew what to do. All he needed was a computer. And he knew Gotham had a public library somewhere. He'd just have to walk. Again. For a while.

He had shoes now, so he wasn’t worried about to much walking anymore. Danny also didn't look horrible—he showered a few days ago, so he was no longer covered in all that dried blood and gunk(read:ectoplasm).

Danny woke up in the morning this time, so he had time to find the library—which shouldn't be too hard with his very confusing map—and make his own birth certificate(proof of identity), a social security card, a high school diploma, and he probably needs to build up a random background that's not as incriminating as his last. Which is super easy!(not) 

First things first. Getting to the library. Danny pulled out his map, getting a good glance over it before setting off out of Crime Alley.

***

Five. Hours. Later. Danny was finally at the Gotham library. It took way longer than Danny liked to get here, even WITH a map of the place. Gotham was massive, and the map was no help when it came to actual navigation.

Danny sighed, pocketed the map, and took a good look at the building. Unlike most of Gotham, the library was still intact—its gothic architecture stood proud, with gargoyles flanking the stairs. He took a moment before pushing the large, dual doors open and stepping inside.

The library was cool inside, and mostly empty with a few people scattered among the bookshelves. The place was quiet, with maybe the occasional flipping of a page breaking the silence. At the front desk sat the librarian.

She made Danny freeze in his tracks. Her hair—long and an all too familiar red—sparked a feeling of sickness within Danny. She had an uncanny resemblance to Jazz. His chest squeezed, the air getting stuck in his throat. Danny's core twisted uncomfortably and his fist clenched at his sides. He wasn't aware of how long he was staring, but it was long enough for the lady to notice and look up, their eyes meeting. 

Bright blue eyes met bright blue. Danny felt like he was going to pass out. He jerked his gaze away and ducked his head. His mind screamed at him to move. Danny hurried further into the library and averted his gaze to the floor. Danny walked into the shelves stocked with books, his breathing coming out ridged.

Fuck. Danny looked up at the ceiling, contemplating what he did to be treated like this. His heart felt like it was going to beat out of his chest, even when it was usually beating at a deadly slow pace for regular people. Danny brought a hand to his chest, squeezing his shirt tightly to try and calm himself.

Jazz wasn't here, she couldn't be. She was at Stanford University in California. She didn't know about what happened to Danny, no one did. Not fully at least. They all probably thought he was dead. 100% not going to come back kind of dead type dead. 

Which meant no one would come looking for him.

Danny swallowed hard, and forced himself to breath. It hurt to think about, but it was sound logic. But it didn't make it hurt any less. He clenched his fists, grounding himself as his core pulsed uncomfortably in his chest. Danny made himself stand and started to look for the computers, not wanting to be here more than he has to be. And hopefully didn't have to run into the red-haired lady again. 

They were located in the very back on the bottom floor, and nobody was using them. How lovely. Danny found a seat on the very end, furthest away from anybody else. The computers themselves were outdated, so it wouldn't be too hard to hack into the systems themselves to get started on making himself legal. Danny sat down, cracked his knuckles, and got started.

***

Barbara didn't know what to think of the boy who just came in. She had been analyzing strange energy signatures for Bruce when the heavy library doors creaked opened. The place didn't get many visitors, and when they did on the rare occasion, it was mostly students needing to study. 

But what confused her was the silence and flow of air that followed. It lasted a few minutes before she had to look up. Bright blue eyes—eerily bright—immediately locked onto hers, internally startling her. It was a boy, who looked young—late teens, young adult—with messy black hair, sunken cheeks and a guarded expression. The boy held himself with a familiar kind of tension that she'd see in the boys when they were injured and trying to hide it.

She opened her mouth to say something, but the boy bolted into the library before she could form a word. She blinked, a frown forming on her face as she listened for any noises. All she got was breathing, then the sound of shuffling to the back. Barbara could only think of the worst from the way the kid looked. And the way he held himself to seem smaller and more vulnerable than he actually was worried her. 

She made a mental note to catch him before he left. Just to make sure he was alright.

***

Three hours later, Danny had everything he needed. A solid background completely unrelated to Daniel Jack Fenton. Ethan Specter—a high school graduate with no living relatives. And with a minor record (underage drinking, a speeding ticket, etc.) to keep things believable. It was airtight, or at least enough to pass a surface-level check.

He also took a moment to look over jobs in the area on the computer. A job that would pay well and keep him out of the hand of the GIW. There were a few he liked, but nothing definite. He'd have to actually look around first. 

Danny erased any data off the computer he needed to, making sure nothing could be traced back to him, to this computer, this moment. And when he did, he stood up, grabbed his papers that he so nicely printed, and started to walk out.

“Excuse me!” An unfamiliar, cheerful voice called out. Danny froze, and braced himself as he glanced up to the desk. The red haired librarian, who sent his core into a spiral earlier, was smiling at him, a little too perceptive for his comfort. She was beckoning him over with a wave of her hand. Danny cringed, eyes darting to the door before he stepped up to the desk. “Um,.. hi..?” He muttered, shuffling awkwardly.

“I didn't get to welcome you in earlier,” Her tone was light, trying to be casual. “So I just wanted to make sure you found everything you needed?” She tilted her head, innocent eyes studying his every reaction. It was uncanny how much this lady was like Jazz. Looks aside, she gave off the same ‘you don't need to be afraid to talk to me’ vibes. And Danny hated it, the weight of her gaze making his skin crawl

“Ah..” He rubbed the back of his neck, looking down at the papers in his hand before nodding. “Yeah, I was just printing some papers and looking into jobs hiring nearby.” 

“Oh? What kind of jobs are you looking into? I might be able to recommend a few places.” She smiled softly at him, and Danny couldn't help but feel an alternative motive behind her tone. Danny raised an eyebrow. 

“Why..?” His tone was blunt and full of suspension. She blinked at him, before laughing softly, not at all offended by his bluntness. “It never hurts to have some pointers.”

Danny hesitated, debating his choices. He supposed it wouldn't hurt. “...Where would you recommend..?” 

“I think this should help...” She reached under her desk, and pulled a neatly folded pamphlet out and handed it over. Danny cautiously skimmed across it, finding it held a list of jobs that needed work, and what those jobs required. “Oh, neat.” Danny muttered as he flipped through it, noticing it also held locations of shelters, soup kitchens, and the like. His nose scrunched up slightly. Was she calling him homeless?

The librarian must have caught onto his reaction, she quickly added. “We usually hand it out after some of Gotham's major attacks. Unfortunately, it's not unusual for people to lose their homes, or jobs. So the Commissioner and I came up with this as a resource for people who may need it.” She tapped the pamphlet in his hands lightly, giving him a reassuring look.

Danny blinked, and honestly thought that was a good idea. Not something he figured Gotham would have, but it made more sense than not. Danny looked back down and went back to the job pages as he spoke. “That.. is a good idea to have.. Thank you.” He held an apologetic tone, feeling guilty for immediately assuming the worst from her. He earned himself a small chuckle from the other. It made his stomach twist. Danny hated how much she resembled his sister.

“So, are you new to Gotham?” The librarian asked casually. Danny gave her a sheepish shrug, “That obvious?”. And was answered with a nod and a knowing smile. “You don't have that Gothamite vibe to you.” She leaned forward, using her elbows to prop herself up. 

Danny chuckled, “Give me a few more days, I'm sure I'll get it.” And, apparently that was the wrong thing to say, seeing as the lady frowned at that. “Hm.. Gotham is an odd place to move to, given its reputation.” She spoke softly, and Danny knew that as a coax to get him to open up more. 

“Hm.” Danny shrugged, avoiding that entirely. He didn't have to explain himself. And the librarian didn't question it anymore either. She sat up, and pulled out a paper, sliding it over to Danny with a new smile. He skimmed over it, furrowing his brows. “A library card..?” He gave a skeptical look to the lady. 

“You look old enough to be in college, so I figured you could use a library card. Or, just for whenever you feel like borrowing a book.” She smiled again. Danny hated how skeptical he was over this kindness. Both her and Red Hood were doing nothing but giving him their best interest, and Danny couldn't pull himself to trust it at all. 

College. The idea hit Danny hard. That started up here soon too didn't it? He hadn't even considered that option—especially not back in Amity. He assumed he'd be stuck doing Phantom work for the rest of his life. Danny didn't even know what he would even study. He grimaced a little and shoved that thought to the side. He wasn't thinking about college right now. Greater problems need to be solved first.

He stared at the paper deciding it would help in the future to have a library card. He picked up a pen from off the counter and realized he didn't have half the information it wanted. He didn't have an address or a phone number. He grimaced as he answered the few questions he could and signed as Ethan Specter, figuring he'd start using his fake name now. Once he was done, the lady took it, immediately looking it over with a sour face. Apparently not answering most questions wasn't a good thing.

“Well, Ethan, I'll have your card ready in a few days.” She sat the paper down and held her hand out. “My names Barbara, it was nice meeting you.” Danny hesitated before reaching out to shake her hand. He pulled away as fast as he could, seeing her visibly shiver. No doubt his touch was too cold. 

Danny cleared his throat before backing away. “Well, I should go- It was nice meeting you too, Ms. Barbara.” She opened her mouth, about to say something. Danny waved bye and swung the doors open and hurried away, papers tight in his hand. 

Next stop, he looked down at his pamphlet, finding a job. He didn't have much time left within the day, but there was no harm in checking a few places. 

Danny wandered aimlessly for a while, no idea where he was going. His focus was glued to the pamphlet as he thought about his next move. He ignored the world around him until he almost ran into someone. He stepped back, bracing himself and looking up. The stranger was a tall, impeccably dressed older man, whose eyes were sharp and assessing Danny the moment they almost collided. “Oh–sorry sir..” Danny quickly straightened up, glancing at the man he nearly ran over.

The older gentleman simply shook his head and a heavy british accent followed. “It is quite fine, sir, no harm was done. Are you alright?” The half ghost nodded stiffly. “Yeah.. yes, sir…” He muttered, feeling the need to shrink into himself. 

The man gave a small nod, seemingly satisfied, before stepping away toward a sleek black car parked nearby. Danny didn't bother watching the man drive away, instead addressing the building he was stopped at. It was tall, probably one of Gotham's largest buildings. It didn't take a detective to read the engraved letters above the door. Wayne Enterprises. 

“Huh..” This place was one of Gotham's biggest names. If Danny could get a stable job anywhere, this place was no doubt one of his best shots. It would work hiding him away and keeping him on his feet at the same time. Only problem was how well known it was. He swallowed nervously. He forced some bravery out as he started to walk towards the building. There's no harm in checking the place out.

Chapter Text

Danny immediately regretted walking into the building. The lobby was massive — with marble floors and sleek modern decor glittered around the gothic architecture. Beautiful, but intimidating. He stuck out like a sore thumb among all the clean suits and polished dress shoes.

This was probably a terrible idea. And the skeptical once-over from the receptionist tied that thought altogether. Danny picked at his nails as she treated him with a smile — polite but stiff. 

“Hello, how may I help you?”

“Um.. I was wondering if you had any job openings?..” He offered a smile, hoping the false confidence would hide the anxiety building up in his skin.

She raised a brow, her eyes skating over him with a trace of pity or judgment, like she was trying to decide if he stumbled in here by accident. “Do you have an appointment with us?” she asked, eyeing him up and down. She managed to hold back a wince. Wow. 

Of course. He completely forgot about needing an appointment. He sighed and rubbed the bridge of his nose. Danny should've known better than to think this would’ve been somewhat easy. 

“Um.. No?” He paused, watching her polite expression slip into a scowl. Her mouth opened — possibly to turn him away. 

“I would like to make one though!” He interrupted quickly.

She shut her mouth and glanced down at her computer with a sigh of her own. She sighed, figures tapping over her keyboard. “We don't normally make walk-in appointments. A lot of our ‘higher-up’ jobs are filled currently.” She tapped away on her keyboard, not glancing back up at him.

“That's fine, I'm not picky. Just.. anything entry-level is fine.” He wasn't given a response, just a mere squint of her eyes. The silence after was dragged on. Danny awkwardly glanced around the lobby, taking in a few people here and there. 

After a few minutes, the sound of the printer behind the desk filled the air. Danny perked up as she reached back and grabbed the freshly printed paper.

“Like I said, we don't have much open currently. And even less open for walk-ins. But—” She slid the paper across to him. “We have something. Janitorial. Mostly night shifts, because this is Gotham and it's hard to find people who want to be out after dark.”

She paused, clearly giving him a chance to walk away. Danny didn’t. He picked up the paper and skimmed it over. Another form for him to fill out information he didn't have. 

“Fill that out and I'll get you an appointment ready.” She waved him off and returned to her keyboard.

Danny grabbed a pen from the desk and stepped back into the lobby. He found one of the lounges and started to fill out the form. It felt like applying for a library card again – except this time Danny provided more answers. He filled out everything except for a phone number and headed back to the desk. 

The receptionist held out her hand without even looking at him and only glanced at the paper once she had it. She typed a bit more, then turned toward him.

“So, Ethan.” she said with a smile. “Our recruiter is ready to see you. Just head down that hallway,” She pointed to the right, “Last on the right.” 

Danny blinked. Already? He nodded and muttered a quick “Thanks” before heading down the hallway. It was much quieter than the lobby — the hum of voices and footsteps fading the further he went. The hallway was lined with doors, each labeled with sleek, silver nameplates. 

He stopped at the last door. Mr. Barns - Recruitment and HR. 

Danny took a moment to prepare himself and knocked lightly. 

“Come in!” called a firm voice inside.

Danny took a deep breath and opened the door to peek inside. The office was neat, aside from the chaos of folders on the man’s desk. 

“Ethan, correct?” A brunette man with tired eyes looked up, drawing Danny’s attention away from the office. The half-ghost nodded as he stepped inside, taking a seat when Mr. Barns motioned towards the chair in front of the desk.

“I am Mike Barns, the recruitment manager.” He gave Danny a once-over before continuing. “Mrs. Shelly informed me that you were interested in our janitorial position?” He glanced over to his computer. 

Danny cleared his throat, “Since it's the only thing available, yes sir.” He tried to be as honest as he could. Barns hummed and shuffled through some papers on his desk. “Do you have any identification on you, Mr. Ethan?”

“Ah..” Danny shuffled through his things, fishing out the freshly made ID for Ethan Specter. He passed it over to the recruiter, trying to hide his nerves as the man examined it. Barns looked over it without comment before setting it down back in front of Danny.

The next few minutes were a blur of questions — Danny’s aspirations for the job, if he was alright with night shifts, what he knew about cleaning in or around the labs(when living around the Fentons, it was practically everything. They knew zero lab safety). He tried to be as vague as possible without being completely clueless. When Barns asked why Danny didn’t put a phone number on his application, he shrugged and explained that he broke his and was saving up to buy another one. 

Barns smiled and placed a few papers in front of him. “With this being a walk-in appointment, we weren’t able to do much about you starting immediately.” he explained, “I can have you sign these employee contracts now, and have you come back..” Barns looked at a calendar hanging beside his desk. “This Thursday?” He looked back at Danny. 

The ghost blinked, glancing at the calendar — it was Tuesday. That gave Danny one more day to heal before he had to come back. “That works for me.” Danny gave the man a polite smile, trying not to seem too relieved.

Barns nodded, tapping the papers in front of Danny, to which the ghost looked over them as the recruiter continued to speak. 

“Great, these here are standard employee contracts that state you understand the dangers of being near our labs and include a confidentiality agreement. Take them home, read through them, and bring them back signed Thursday.” He paused and waited for Danny’s confirmation before continuing. 

“When you come back, all we’re going to do is give you a tour, a uniform, a schedule, and go over safety procedures.” He finished and turned back to Danny. “Again, you’ll only be working nights for right now. That could change in the future, but don’t count on it to.”

Danny nodded as he gathered all his papers into a neat stack in his lap. He apparently really needed a backpack. This was a lot. 

“Well, Ethan,” Barns gave Danny a tight-lipped, but not unkind smile, and held out his hand. “Welcome to the team.”

Danny shook it, “Thank you.”

He left the office after that, leaving Barns to his own devices. That went so much better than what Danny was expecting. As he walked back out into the lobby, he noticed that the receptionist scowl deepened when she spotted him where he stood. 

Not wanting to deal with that, he gave her a nod and walked out the imposing building. It was a breath of not-so-fresh air to finally be back outside again — where the people didn’t look so polished, yet were just as judgmental. 

***

It took Danny a while to make it back. He didn’t bother using the map simply — it was too confusing, and he’d learn better by walking it himself, anyways. He let the cool air wash over him and help quiet his mind.

A few minutes after he got back in Crime Alley, he could feel a familiar tug in his core. Danny stopped walking and looked up to a rooftop across the street. It didn’t take long for a tall figure to appear and drop to the ground silently. 

Which was insane, considering Red Hoods size. Even his steps were silent — until he chose to make them audible. 

“Hey, kid,” Hood’s modulated voice called out casually as he crossed the street. The man fell into step beside Danny as he continued along the sidewalk. “How’s it been?”

The half ghost wrinkled his nose at the name. Kid. It made him feel.. small. 

He didn't answer right away. Instead, he tuned into Red Hood’s tiny little baby of a core. He did this last time, too, listening to the angry ectoplasm pulse throughout the vigilante in chaotic burst. That couldn't be good for you. 

“It’s been.. alright..” Danny said, offering a half-shrug. 

He wasn't great, but he wasn’t bleeding anymore. His bruises? Now faded. The ache in his feet? Mostly gone. But the Y-shaped wound across his torso? Still red and still threatening to pull open if he moved too much too fast.

He looked back up at the not-ghost of a man. “What about you?” 

Hood looked down at him, — Danny hated not being able to see his eyes — and spoke again. “Same as usual.” Hood’s voice came flat under the helmet’s modulation. “Y’know, normal crime lord things.”

Danny nodded like that explained everything. 

Before he could speak again, Hood asked another question. “You hungry? I've been craving a burger,” he said, rolling his shoulders and scanning the street. 

Danny eyed him warily. 

They already played this game the other day. He couldn't help but immediately assume it was a trick. The only thing that was keeping him from bolting was the man's core. It was unstable, incomplete. Which was very intriguing to Danny. 

It’s one of the reasons why he followed the vigilante the other day, too.

“...Sure?” Danny said slowly. 

“Awsome,” Hood stepped forward, leading the way. “I know a great place.”

And with that, Danny was introduced to Batburger. 

Chapter Text

Danny has learned that Batburger is a thing.

‘Best burger joint in Gotham.' And it was named after the flock of birds(and bird-adjacent) protecting the Gothic city.

It reminded Danny of Nasty Burger. But only if Nasty Burger sucked. And didn’t have exploding condiments. 

He was currently on his second burger, looking around the fast food joint and taking in the decorations. 

“What's with the stack of papers?” Red Hood asked suddenly, he was on his third burger. 

Red Hood bought, like, 10 burgers between the both of them.

For whatever reason.

Danny wasn't complaining.

He glanced down at his pile of his now most important information, and shrugged.

“I got a job.” He said simply. Would the vigilante care? Danny didn't know. But he'd tell the man anyway. 

“No shit?” Red Hood tilted his head, tone much more readable now that he took his helmet off to eat. His domino mask is now the only thing covering his face. The place was empty except for the cashier, and Hood’s back was to them anyways. So it was fine.

“Where you working at? This is pretty far out from where I found you last time.” The vigilante looked out the window, taking a fry.

“Wayne Enterprises.”

“Cough-” Hood choked mid-bite. “What.”

Danny jolted, caught off guard by the man's reaction. “Um.. I got a janitorial job.” He narrowed his eyes.

“No.. no.. I just.” Red Hood facepalmed. “Wayne Enterprises…?” He sounded distraught by Danny's choice of work. 

“Yeah…??” Danny frowned. Why did Hood’s reaction seem so loaded?. “What's wrong with that?”

“You peg me as the kinda guy who wants to lay low. So you picking that big ass company threw me off.” Hood deadpanned at Danny. Which, yeah.. fair.

“This is me laying low.” Danny grinned and held up his new ID. Ethan Specter. Danny was low, Ethan was going places. He trusted Hood enough not to hound him about a fake ID. Or tell anyone. Hopefully.

“Wow. Okay, Ethan. They didn't catch the fake ID? I am so making fun of my buddy who works there.” Hood grinned from ear to ear as he took the ID, looking it over. 

Danny blinked. “You know a guy who works there?” He tilted his head. 

“I know people everywhere, twerp.” Hood shrugged as he handed back the ID. “And yeah, he's not a big figure there, you probably won't meet him.” Danny could hear a hint of amusement in Red Hood's voice at his words.

“Huh..” Danny placed it back in his stack, finishing his second burger to start his third. Danny figured Hood was skipping on something important, but he wouldn’t question it. He semi-trusted that the vigilante wouldn’t out him.

They then fell into a comfortable silence. Danny ended up eating most of the food—6 out of the 10 burgers—and he was currently finishing off the fries. 

“So.. The other night.” Hood leaned forward propping an elbow on the table. “What'd you mean when you called me ‘Mister Not-a-ghost’?”

Danny paused mid-fry. He forgot he did that.

“Well.. you're not a ghost, aren’t you?” He sassed, then paused, giving the vigilante a dumbfounded look. “... you're not right…?”

“No,” Hood exasperated as he shook his head. “Never mind, it's not important…” He said that like he was asking Danny instead of straight up saying it. Which, far. 

“Right. Not important.” Danny smiled as he polished off the last fry.

Hood nodded, “Do you need a ride home?” He stood and started helping Danny pick up their trash.

“Nahhh, I got it. I’m learning my way around as I go.” He smiled as they left the restaurant.

Danny turned to the vigilante. “Thank you for the food. And the shower the other day.” 

“It's no problem.” He shrugged, “See you around?”

“Yeah, see you around.” Danny waved before walking off. He wasn't sure it was the right direction—but he'd find his apartment eventually. 

“That safe house is always open if you need it!” Hood called from behind Danny. He didn't bother to turn around, knowing the vigilante was going the other direction by the pull of his core. He kept walking aimlessly until the pull faded into nothing and it was safe to go home without Hood following. 

***

Two days later, the morning before Danny had to return to Wayne Enterprises, he did end up back at the warehouse made safe house. True to his words, Red Hood left the door open.

Danny thought that was a horrible idea.

He was still thankful.

The half ghost wasted no time. He ended up finding another shirt, not worrying about his pants, and took another shower. He didn't take nearly as long this time, seeing as he wasn't so dirty, and he wasn't in so much pain. 

Danny avoided looking at himself in the mirror as he was redoing the bandages. They were tighter this time too. It's wonderful the things you can do when your body doesn't feel like it's about to collapse. 

He finally addressed the mirror once Danny was redressed. He fixed up his hair to be less of a mess than it usually is. And with his new shirt being short sleeved, he threw a bandage on to hide the Lichtenstein figures crawling up his arm. He looked like a mommy, but it worked.

Danny stepped out of the bathroom and sighed. His gaze went to where the kitchen was. It felt wrong to take food when the vigilante wasn't there to okay it, not that Danny would’ve when Hood was near anyway. 

Whatever. He wasn't going to risk it. So, Danny left. It was morning, but he felt he should leave now, get a head start. He had the papers in hand, all signed and ready to go.

He spent most of yesterday sleeping. But when he did wake up, he read the contracts, looking for anything ‘in between the lines.’

But, like Barns had said, they were simply employee contracts. Danny understood the need for a confidentiality agreement, but 7 pages felt like a lot. But maybe that was just him?

***

Danny believed that he was getting better at this whole navigating Gotham thing. It still took him till past noon to get there, but he still made it! Danny also realized Barns never told him what time to show up. Danny sighed, fixing his hair in the window reflection before walking in the building.

The same secretary from the other night was there, with that same not-friendly look. She looked up at him, scrutinizing.

“Yes?” Her tone was polite. 

“Um, Mr. Barns told me to come in today. He never gave me an exact time..” Danny gave an awkward smile as he rubbed the back of his neck. 

“Hm..?” It looked like it dawned on her. “Oh. Mr. Specter.” She narrowed her eyes slightly. “He wasn't expecting you for another 2 hours.”

“Oh.” 

“That's fine, he's just preparing at the moment. I'll ring him up and let him know you're on the way.” She turned, and once again shooed him away. 

Danny blinked, sighed, and made his way down the same hallway. Once again, it was still and quiet. But a lot less scary. Once at the office, Danny knocked. 

Two beats went by before Mr. Barns called out. “Come in!”

Danny opened the door, letting Barns see him first before walking in. The recruiter looked less tired as he smiled at Danny.

“Ethan! It's good to see you again.” He motioned to the chair in front of his desk. Danny took a seat, setting down the papers on the desk. Danny gave the man a smile and nodded.

For the next few minutes, Barns talked. He told Danny a few ground rules, and gave Danny a schedule for the next month. 

“Normally we have an app that tells you what days you need to come in. But,” He motioned to Danny and his obvious lack of a phone. The halfa winced inwardly. “So, hopefully you'll have one before the end of next month. However, it's not a problem if you don't. Just don't lose this.” 

Danny looked over the schedule. It was basically a repeated Monday through Thursday schedule. Besides one Sunday night later in the month. He nodded, setting that down to start another pile of papers. The recruiter reached out and grabbed the contracts from in front of Danny. They talked a bit more, before Barns stood up, motioning for Danny to follow him out of the office. 

“You don't need to worry about checking in with Mrs. Shelly every day. There's an area in the staff room where you'll have to clock in.”

The rest of the walk was quiet between the two of them. Once they made it to the staff room, Danny took a moment to look around.

The staff room was brighter than he expected — pale tile floors, vending machines, lockers, and a digital time clock mounted on the far wall. 

A woman in coveralls stood by one of the lockers, sipping coffee from a cracked mug. She looked up as they entered. Barns motioned to her, “Ethan this is Jules.”

Barns turned to the lady and motioned to Danny, “Jules, this is Ethan Specter. A new hire. Mind showing him the ropes and around the place?”

Jules gave a nod and an assessing glance. “Specter, huh? Like a ghost?” Her accent was thicker than Danny has heard from anyone else in Gotham.

Danny blinked, taken aback by the question. “Um, sure. Something like that.”

Barns gave a polite chuckle, clapped Danny on the shoulder, and left them to it. Jules watched the door close behind him, then turned back to Danny.

“You look like a haunted mop,” she said bluntly, gesturing to his face and motioning down. 

The silence was heavy for a few moments before Jules broke it, jumping to a different topic. “Ever worked as a janitor before?”

Ethan shook his head, “No, this is my first job all together.. I know my way around a lab and how to keep a place clean, though.” He gave the lady a confident smile. She didn’t seem very impressed. 

“Okay, well. We normally stay away from the labs unless a mess needs immediate clean up.” She sat her mug down and walked up to him, poking him in the arm. Jules hummed to herself and walked up to a box labeled uniforms. “That’s just so we don’t accidentally mess up their progress, and whatnot.”

She waved one of her hands around as she rummaged around the box with her other. She glanced at him, raking over his form—uncomfortably so—and pulled out a uniform.

“Try this on,” She threw it at him, to which he caught without an issue. She pointed to a door off to the side, “That's the restroom.” 

Ethan nodded and walked over to the restroom. He pulled the uniform on quickly and met up with Jules again, who pointed at an unclaimed locker. “That one’s now yours. Place your stuff in there and I can show you around the building.”

And so he did. Jules told Ethan easy ways to get around the place, she also gave him a few tips and tricks when it came to the actual cleaning part. Jules gave Ethan a run down of the entire job. Made sure he knew it wasn’t just cleaning, but also maintenance and the overall upkeep of the building. Ethan was shown some floors he’d be given to clean while he was starting out. Mainly the lobby, and lower floors. Nothing important, maybe some offices.

But this is exactly what he needed.

***

A week later Danny feels like he's actually gotten a hang of his new job. 

He finally got the route from his ‘apartment’ to Wayne Enterprises down.

And, he can fairly say that he made a ‘friend’ out of Jules. More like she bothered him the most and they talked during his ‘lunch break’. But that was what worked for him. This was working. And Danny was happy with it. Ethan was his saving grace in this hell.

He was currently cleaning one of the lab halls—but not going into the labs themselves. 

This was the last thing he had to do before he was able to head home.

It went as smoothly as he expected it to. Like it has been the past week. Danny sighed, putting all the cleaning supplies on the floor's supplies closet. He smiled at his job well done. It was nice. Zero problems, no weirdness —just something he was actually good at. Even cleaning up chemicals felt normal. 

It was nice.

Danny pressed the button for the elevator, lost in thought. He could try and find somewhere to eat tonight, like a fast food joint or something. Maybe Batburger? A few more moments passed as the elevator stopped at his floor. He was about to walk forward—

But then Danny felt it.

He felt his core pull him forward. And it only got worse when the doors opened. 

Danny’s eyes widened. He exhaled, not paying attention to how he could now see his own breath.

It was just some guy. Holding a briefcase. And that briefcase felt like home. It emitted the same kind of presence that pure ecto did. And that was something a random man should not have in their hands. 

“Um.. Hello..??” A very tired voice called out, snapping Danny from the fear circling in his head. He took a deep breath, pulling himself together, letting the temperature come back. He couldn’t get caught now, he wouldn’t let the feeling of ectoplasm mess this up.

He looked up, studying the guy. He was dressed in a tailored suit, and eyebags that rivaled Danny’s on a good day. His hair was slicked back, leaving those blue eyes wide open to study Danny.

Fuck.

The guy was annoyingly good looking and far too casual to be holding something so dangerous. Does he even understand what that stuff does to a person?

Danny walked into the elevator, his core vibrating at the mere feeling of ectoplasm being so, so close. He glanced down at the briefcase. If Danny wasn’t able to feel it, he wouldn't have thought any better.

The guy must’ve noticed Danny staring because he switched the case to his other hand, further from Danny. And his core whined to be closer. To consume and take. To heal. The halfa turned his gaze away, a shudder breaking through him. 

He tried to ignore the guy beside him. The briefcase that shook Danny. Why is ectoplasm here? What does Wayne Enterprises need with it? Do they know about ghosts? Are they planning to use it against the Realms? Do they even know about the Realms??

Danny was spiraling. His mind went back to the GIW. They were the last time he came in contact with ectoplasm. They’d give him small incidents to heal him after their experiments and studies. But never enough to sustain. Always weak. Never enough. 

That might be where the stuff in the elevator came from. But that would potentially mean that WE and the GIW were working together. 

Danny didn’t like the sound of that.

It didn’t hit him that the elevator was open until he felt the pull to the ectoplasm grow faint. His gaze snapped to the briefcase, being carried away from him. 

He stumbled out, torn between following and staying on the downlow. He couldn’t give himself away. He didn’t know what they knew. 

He needed a plan.

Yeah. That’s what he needed. 

Danny would make a plan and find if and where the ectoplasm was here. If not here, then he would find it out in Gotham. 

He needed to find the source. Gotham didn’t have any naturally produced in such a large quantity. That guy had to have got it from somewhere. Danny hoped to the Ancients that it wasn’t the GIW.

Danny’s hand twitched, his core pulsing. He needed to get his head together. 

He would be fine. He just had to think first, something he's gotten better at in the past few years. Danny just needed to regroup first, clear his head and figure this out. Yeah, this was fine. He’s handled GIW.

What could possibly be worse?

Danny simply made himself stop thinking. He wasn’t in the right environment to freak out or break down right now. He clocked out and started his trip home. He busied himself with watching people, and his surroundings. He was being paranoid. 

Danny wasn’t entirely sure how long he was walking. 

His fingers twitched at his sides. He kept walking, not even sure which street he was on anymore—just moving, trying to put distance between himself and whatever the hell that was.

The start of a pull in his core made Danny stop abruptly. His core pulsed with familiarity. A safety that Danny had yet rewarded himself with.

Danny flinched and almost gave himself whiplash from how fast he turned around and faced the buildings behind him. He scanned the roof tops, watching for that signature shadow. 

Relief flooded through him at the sound of Red Hood landing on the ground. He wasn’t sure when seeing the hooded vigilante had become normal. Danny didn’t like it.

But his core thought it was a welcome normal. Danny tried not to think too much about it.

“Haiya, Danny.” Hood took the spot beside him and paused. “What’s wrong?” He pressed immediately.

Danny startled. “Does something have to be wrong?” He glowered at Red Hood.

“When you don’t give me your normal attitude for botherin’ ya. Yeah, something's wrong?” He was silent for a moment. “Was it WE? I knew that place would be bad for you. The people there are crazy wack, and the CEO is a sleep deprived maniac with zero sense of survival skills when he doesn’t have an hourly ounce of caffeine.” Hood rambled on, and Danny could hear the disapproval in his tone. 

It was… nice? It felt like something akin to Jazz when something he'd done immediately backfired. 

Grief gnawed on his core, making Danny ill. He turned away, a sigh heavy on his lips. He was tired of today. He needed to think and plan instead of feeling nostalgic from a vigilante making bad comments about his boss’s boss. 

“It was nothing. Just..” How does he explain this without it being both worrying and incriminating? Not like he hasn't been both already. Still. “I just had a weird feeling.” Partly true. “And it’s been eating at me since I left work.” Very true. “I don't think that it’s anything to worry about, just paranoia at its finest.” Very much a lie. And the laugh he gave to make it seem even more believable came out strained.

Red Hood stared at him for a long moment before walking along the sidewalk.

Danny could feel the eye roll he was given. 

He followed after the vigilante and talked about the few shifts he's worked so far, filling the silence with his voice instead of his thoughts. 

Red Hood didn’t seem to mind. 

Danny would think of a plan in the morning. 

He wasn’t safe, not fully anyways. But he also wasn’t alone, and right now that was enough. 

Chapter Text

Danny wasn’t able to sleep that night. There were times when he was out of consciousness, but never truly asleep. He couldn’t get the night before out of his head.

Danny tried to reason it out, made excuses—but none of it made sense.

The half ghost knows for a fact that ectoplasm was in that briefcase, he was a hundred percent sure about that. 

But then why would someone at Wayne Enterprises have it?

Was the company working as a secret ghost hunting business on the side? Gotham didn’t have enough ectoplasm in the air for that, not to mention there wasn’t any ghost that Danny could feel. Well, besides the vigilante—but he doubted Wayne Enterprises needed that much ecto for one guy.

Were the rest of Gotham’s vigilantes like Red Hood? He might have to ask Hood himself, but that would raise questions—especially since he and Hood had both been avoiding that obvious pull. Danny knew the other man could feel it, he always seemed to know where Danny was when he wanted to find him.

Danny shook his head, he was getting distracted. 

First things first, where did WE get the ectoplasm?

Danny first thought that the company could be working with the GIW—which, unfortunately, seemed the most reasonable. It could be used as an energy source. The Fentons used it as such in their weapons. Tucker and Danny would experiment with it in electronics. And it was a good source, not healthy for humans to be exposed to though. Which made Danny start thinking about WE’s medical line. Could they be incorporating ectoplasm into their medications? Was WE trying to kill off Gotham?? Danny knew the gothic city had its fair share of corrupted correlations. Was Bruce Wayne directly involved in this? Did his employees decide to use his company as a front for their evil plans?

Danny took a deep breath. He was getting ahead of himself. Again.

He shouldn’t make large accusations without proof.

The guy in the elevator left with the briefcase, which meant one of two things: either he’d found it and knew it was dangerous so he was getting it out, or he was the danger. Danny would have to do research on the guy. 

The half ghost hoped the stranger simply found the ectoplasm and would soon realize the dangers of being exposed to it. There was a hefty amount in that briefcase, there would be consequences of being so exposed. All of Amity would tell you as such. 

Danny lifted himself off the couch he called a bed. He was so damn tired, but he had work to do. And that was more important than closing his eyes and wasting perfectly good sunlight.

Research it is. To the library he went, then. 

***

Danny was proud of himself for how much better he was at navigating Gotham. He made it to the giant building in no time, pushing open the doors once more. It was just as crowded as it was the last time he was in here. By that, he meant not at all. There were probably three other people in here, then there was the librarian that Danny, still, thought had an uncanny resemblance to his sister.

She beamed the moment he stepped inside, calling his name before he could escape to the back. Like she knew he would hide away immediately.

“Ethan! It's great to see you again.” She smiled, leaned forward on her desk to show Danny he had her full attention.

Welp. 

“Ah.. Hi,” He paused. Her name—what was it? It definitely wasn’t Jazz … oh. “Barbra.” He nodded, hoping the pause wasn’t suspiciously long. Danny walked up to her desk, feeling awkward.

Barbra simply smiled more at him, like she didn't expect to greet her back but it was obviously welcome. His core buzzed faintly. Yeah, no…. Danny grimaced and turned his head to the side. 

She seemed to put mercy on him as she spoke more. “So, Ethan, what brings you here today?” She tilted her head to the side before she brightened again. “Oh! I also got your card made!” She started to dig through the drawer to her left.

Danny watched for a moment before answering. “I needed to do some research.” He watched the questions form in her head, and spat out a reason before she could probe further. “For college. Looking into it and everything…” He rubbed the back of his neck. Unease pooling in his gut at the mere thought of college.

Barbra seemed happy in this answer. She pulled out a card and handed it out to him. “Well, that's nice to hear. Did you end up finding yourself a job?” She tilted her head at him.

Danny took the card, letting his thumb skim the fake name he still wasn’t used to.. “I did. I got a janitorial job.” He decided against telling her where, not wanting another reaction like Hood’s. “Um, I should get… going….” Danny backed away and gave her a small wave before darting to the computers in the back. He really needed to work on his interaction skills. Sigh.

***

Danny’s found out several things in the past hour. One, Bruce wasn’t the acting CEO, though still involved. It was his son. Timothy Drake. Two, the man from the elevator? Also Timothy fucking Drake. He was Danny’s age, and he ran a whole ass company. Danny didn’t even get to graduate and this guy is over here being a CEO. Damn nepotism… 

He dug into their relations, and nothing seemed to be involved with the GIW or ghosts in general. But then again, that stuff was erased from the internet quite quickly. So, he couldn’t count on that. It could be a corrupt company, or since it was the CEO, Timothy could be the danger. Danny was going in circles. Wayne Enterprises was clean. Bruce Wayne and Timothy Drake were clean. He couldn’t gauge anything real from what was on the internet. 

Danny would have to investigate in person—eventually. His core was still too weak, and his wounds hadn’t even remotely healed. It would have to take time. For now Ethan would just have to do his job, maybe plan ahead and get clearance to the upper labs? Danny sighed, clearing his tabs. He scrubbed his face, still too tired for any of this.

As Danny was walking back to the front, a guy at the desk caught his attention. That’s the first time he’s seen someone talk to Barbra beside himself, granted, he’s only paid attention to her when he’s within eye shot. But still. 

It didn't matter, he kept walking. He actually preferred this, it helped not having to face the red head. 

“Ethan!” Barbra called, despite having company with her. Danny grimaced and turned to face her, eyebrow raised in question. Danny had the best poker face. Not really, but we’ll ignore that.

“Did you want to take any books with you? I know you're looking into college so they might be of help.” He blinked, recalling the excuse he gave her. Danny bristled, reminding himself of the probability of never actually going to college. 

“Um, no thank you.” He shook his head, glancing at her company, who shared her over friendly smile. “I’ll come back another time for that.” He wouldn’t. Danny had a faint feeling Barbra knew that too. Her eyes narrowed, just slightly.

The stranger seemed to pick up on that, and tilted his head to the librarian. “Not going to introduce me to your friend, Babs?” He had a genuine smile on his face, bright and all teeth. Danny wondered how often he was tired of it.

“Ah, Ethan before you leave. This is my friend, Dick.” Danny held back a snort. “Dick, this is Ethan.”  She gestured to Danny, her eyes meeting Dick’s in a silent conversation. 

Danny didn’t trust this one bit. He was too tired and paranoid for this right now.

“Um, hi.” He nodded, and took a step back. “And goodby—”

His core flared to life. 

The sudden tug was sharp and dramatic; singing in familiarity and safety. Danny had no time to think before he turned to the doors and was face to face with a brick wall of a man.

Danny was frozen as he looked over the man. He was Danny's height, but held much more obvious muscle. His hair was black beside a familiar tuft of white in the front. The man’s eyes were blue, but Danny could see the familiar green swarming inside them. His core buzzed with happiness at the vigilante— Red Hood’s —arrival. 

Hood cursed, “Kid? The fuck you doing here?” He asked, sounding just as confused as Danny felt. Why did his core not warn him sooner? And judging by Hood’s reaction, the vigilante felt the same way.

Danny blinked, schooling his expression. “I could ask you that.” His eyes narrowed. It’s not like they both were stuck in a crime alley, but the fact they were both here right now was off putting. “Are you following me?” Danny asked half heartedly, trying to break the tension. 

The man scoffed and shook his head. “You wished."

Their moment was ruined by Dick coming by and swinging an arm around the vigilante. “Jason! You know Ethan?” Dick was all smiles, but Danny could hear the hidden question behind it. Danny glared at the man skeptically.

His name was Jason. Nice to finally have a name, he supposed.

Hood looked Danny over before answering the other man, “ Ethan and I have run into each other a few times. He lives in Crime Alley.” Danny heard Barbra’s short gasp from here, he turned and watched as she rolled— holy shit she rolled —over to them, an indistinguishable look on her face as she glanced at Jason. 

“You live in Crime Alley, Ethan?” She stopped at his right, looking up at him.

“Uhh, yeah? Rent’s cheaper over there.” Danny, in fact, does not pay rent. 

He heard Hood—No, Jason—huff in bemusement. “Yeah, like you need to care about that, Mr. I-work-at-Wayne-Enterprises.” 

Danny shot a look back at the man, a mock hurt expression on his face. “I didn’t when I got the place.” 

Dick and Barbra shared a look. “You work at WE?” Dick asked, overly happy. Danny hated how polite the man was. It was so different to every other gothamite and Danny didn’t trust it one bit. 

“Yeah. As a janitor.” Danny glanced at Jason, did they have the same thoughts he did? Danny didn’t think the palace was that hated. 

“Yuh-huh,” Jason shrugged his shoulders, effectively getting Dick off of him. He glanced at Danny, probably assessing the fact that he now knew his identity. The halfa was surprised Jason wasn’t freaking out. Maybe he was on the inside?

Danny didn’t want to have this conversation right now. In front of other people. Civilians . Well, did they know about Jason’s activities? Is that how they all knew each other? He looked at the lot of adults in front of him. Gotham did have a large amount of birds and adjacent. 

This was way too many birds in one building for Danny’s liking.

Oh.

Fuck.

No .

Danny reeled in; this was enough interaction for one day.

“See you later, Jason.” Danny weaved past the man and out the door, hearing a small “Bye kid,” from Jason before the door shut. 

Danny’s head hurt. 

He was way too damn tired. 

***

Jason has officially fucked up. 

Not horribly, but enough to where everyone in this forsaken family would be up his ass for months about it.

It’s not even his fault he didn’t realize that Danny was in the building. That stupid ass pull in his chest didn’t make itself known till he had the door open! And now, the kid who he's been talking with as Red Hood knew who his civilian identity was. 

It’s not like Jason could've stopped it, Danny recognized him immediately. 

It was only a matter of time anyway. 

Shit.

Jason cursed himself silently, locking eyes with Dickface.

“So, you’re making friends now, Babywing?” Dick interrupted Jason’s thoughts.

He rolled his eyes, “Don’t sound so surprised.” 

Barbie laughed, but it sounded sad. Jason shifted his gaze to her, raising an eyebrow in question.

“He’s so guarded,” She answered the unspoken question. “I mean, it’s Gotham. I'm not surprised, but he seems.. Scared. In a way.” Jason completely understood. Danny had that effect. Scrawny, dirty, and looks like he hadn’t slept in weeks. Granted, the kid looks better than he did a few weeks ago. But not good enough in Jason’s book. And Babs too, apparently. “I’m glad he has someone.” She added. Jason wouldn’t say that, the kid has barely gotten to a point in trusting him. 

Dick, however, didn’t seem to get it. “He seemed like a nice guy!” Dick patted the both of them on their shoulders. “Anyways! I want to hear about how my little brother made a friend over lunch.” Jason grimaced at his comment, but still let himself be steered out and away from the library, Babs chatting with Dick along the way.

Jason needed to make up a story apparently. Because he sure as hell is not telling Dickwing and Barbie about his not so minor screw up.

He was so dead again when Bruce found out.