Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Jason brought his knees to his chest curling into a ball. Desperately trying to stay warm as the cold concrete of Arkham pressed, making his breath little puffs of steam as he exhaled. Eyes burning as tears threatened to spill. That was all he had been doing since he got to this hell hole, sleep, eat, and cry to himself he thought to him self venomously.

What is the point? They weren't coming back for him, anyway they had made that clear.

It has already been months since he was put in here. They never visited, didn't call. Heck they were even the ones to put him in here. They probably just wanted him gone out of the way so they could continue playing happy family. He was so stupid to think that he was ever part of that. They were the ones who put him in here to rot or freeze to death. Out of sight out of mind Jason guessed, chuckling at the thought.

His lips wobbled as his throat became thick, eyes becoming glossy as tears threatened to spill.

Jason didn't need them anyway he was fine all by himself. He didn't need Dicks hugs, Alfred cooking and gentle mentoring, Bruce's comforting presence. Last of all he didn't need Damian with all his little quirks and traits. They didn't need him obviously then why should he feel like they need him. They were probably happier without him. Bruce probably celebrated the moment he was locked away in Arkham. Glad he no longer had to deal with the red hood.

Tears streamed down his face as he shrunk into himself.

They were probably having the time of their life watching him slowly break. Laughing at his tears like the joker did just enjoying the show of him break.

A green tinted into his vision at the thought of the Joker who was caged in the same wall they couldn't even put him in a different prison than joker. Why would they trap him with his killer? Anger flooded him making his vision go green, standing up he spun around slamming his fist into the wall. Holding back a scream as he felt his bones crack under the force. Vision clearing as he examined the wall; he hadn't even cracked the concrete. Slumping to the floor Jason curled up around his now broken fist sobbing as emotions overwhelmed him.

Bruce said he still cared about him. Why would he do this if he still cared. Yes he killed people but they deserved it. When he was younger Bruce said that he would always love him no matter what he was or did. Guess that didn't include murder when he said that.

“F***” he whispered, voice horse from months of no use.

Tears now flowed freely down Jason's face now he was really all alone no one cared that he was miserable.

Sniffing Jason scrubbed his cheeks eyes dropping he fell into a restless sleep.

- (Dick's POV)

Dick gawked at the screen.

It wasn't possible, Jason was dead he had seen the footage. Why hadn't Bruce ever said anything? Why did he feel the need to hide ithe fact that his little brother was alive? Impossible, unbelievable but a miracle none the less.

It was 100% match a match that even clones made with magic couldn't manage. It was a absolute certainty the Red Hood was his brother; Jason Todd.

Nothing about his father's attitude showed any joy of his dead son coming back to life. If anything the dark cloud that hung over Bruce was darker then usual. Was Bruce in denial is that why he didn't tell him.

Bruce had known about the many sleepless nights and skipped meals. Bruce had seen how torn Dick was over Jason's death. Why would he hide it? What was he scared of Dick finding?

Did Bruce have something to do with Red Hood disappearance. Did Bruce put Jason in Arkham. If he did...

Dick didn't care that he was now the Red Hood. Yea Red Hood killed but Dick had killed too. He had even enjoyed seeing Joker's body go limp after all that he put Little Wing through. Why did he get a free pass for killing Joker and Jason Didn't. Jason had more of a reason for killing especially with the influence of the lazarus pit.

“Are you okay?” called a voice behind him. Whipping around Dick was met with the sight of Tim nursing yet another cup of coffee.

“You're gripping that mouse pretty hard,” Tim asked while taking a sip from his steaming coffee. Glancing up at the screen taking in the information he looked at Dick understanding plastered on his face.

Dick felt himself shake as he asked “did you already know” Dick voice broke on the last word as his eyes teared up. Tim sighed, looking guilty as he replied.

“Um yeah, I knew,” Tim responded hesitantly, rubbing his neck before adding. “Didn't Bruce tell you that Jason was alive” inquired Tim eyebrows furrowing.

“No he didn't” Dick responded bitterly, tears streaming down his face.

“Why didn't he tell you?” Tim muttered, frowning. "I mean it makes sense not telling me cause I didn't really know him".

Wiping his face Dick cleared his throat putting a stop to Tims spiral.

“I don't know, but I plan to find out” Dick affirmed tone icy as walked past Tim not bothering to close what he was looking at on the bat-computer. He was getting answers one way or another.

Chapter Text

Metal grinded itself together as the mechanisms on the door slowly unlocked. The sound making Jason's ears want to bleed as the metal screeched and groaned. Curling up into the tightest ball possible Jason cowarded in the counter. 

Why did he have a more secure cell then the joker had? The joker had murdered countless people he had even filled entire grave yards. 

Yet just the fact that he was supposedly a meta. Ment that Jason got a more secure cell then the rest of the criminals locked up in Arkham.

As far as he was aware they hadn't even connected him to the Red Hood.

“Little bat” called Dr Irie with a sickeningly sweet voice, snapping Jason out of his thoughts.

Of course it had to be Ruben Irie today, his least favorite doctor. He was Jason only doctor and only visitor. But Jason still didn't like him something always felt off with Ruben aka Dr Irie. 

It certainly didn't help that Ruben always treated him like a child. Calling him little bat pinching his cheeks. The behavior gave off the impression of an old lady which didn't fit well with the doctor's lanky masculine form. 

Pressing his eyes close Jason felt his heart start to pound faster in his chest.

The only people that were even allowed in his cell were the doctors. After he nearly killed an inmate while blinded by pit rage. But in his defense that guy was a jerk and a disgusting excuse for a human being. 

After that incident he was moved to a even more secure cell. Plus now he was given a nasty concoction that supposedly got rid of his supposed meta abilities. Well that is what Jason assumed it was for. Officially it was just something written off as something necessary for his health and was something helping him get better. 

It was laughable as it was making him weaker with the lack of food.

But that was according to the totally trustworthy doctors he had in the most corrupt prisons on Earth. So yeah totally believable. But really how can anyone actually get better in this hell hole? Ironic that supposedly the best mental health hospital/ prison was crap at doing its job.

Strangely enough did seem to actually do something as it felt like it was reversing some of the Lazarus pit side effects. 

Because he could feel the Lazarus pit presence grow weaker after every dose. He could feel its strength draining out of him, his pit rage episodes growing fewer and fewer the longer he was in here.

Or they were just drugging and starving him enough to believe that's is what was happening.

The medicine itself was down right nasty he swore they put litterial dirt in it. Given that the fact that this was Arkham they probably did put dirt in it.

“Ooh little bat, where are you?” Dr Irie called again.

Why him? Why did it have to be this doctor?

Something always felt off with him, every time the doctor was anywhere near him Jason could feel his stare making him want to crawl out of his own skin. 

“There you are little bat” called the doctor, flinching Jason hid his face in his hands. 

How ironic the big fearsome red hood curled up like a child Bruce would disown him after this if he hadn't already.

“Little bat there is nothing to fear just your normal check up” soothed the doctor as he pried Jason's hands from his face. Slapping the hands away Jason felt green fill his vision.

“Now none of that little bat” sneered the doctor, dropping the sickeningly sweet tone. 

Something wet and cold touched his arm, flinching away from the doctor he spotted the glint of a needle. 

“Now little bat it will all be over soon” the doctor remarked, smiling eyes shaded as he plunged the needle into his arm. Drowsiness hit him immediately as the sedative coursed through his veins.

“Why are you doing thisss” Jason slurred out head spinning as he fought against the effects of the sedative.

“Why?” the doctor chuckled. “I'll tell you why” the doctor added face twisting into a scowl. “Because the little bat strayed too far from father bat. Preaching about cleaning up the streets ain't a bad thing. But you crossed the line when you murdered my brother” fumed the doctor. “This is just pay back” raved the doctor with a wide toothy smile as the world around Jason slowly faded to black

-(Tim’s POV)

Tim just stood there and stared as Dick stormed out of the cave. Tim could feel anger radiating off Dick as he left. 

Even after Dick's foot steps had faded Tim continued to stare at the empty space that once held Dick.

Tim had known that their were parts of Dick life that he didn't share or elaborate on. The anger that Tim had just witnessed right then must have been a part of it. Tim had the inkling that the anger stemmed from some thing much bigger than Bruce not telling him about Jason.

But unlike Bruce Tim didn't know about Dick's grief over losing Jason. He suspected that the only reason Dick moved back into the manor was because of guilt of not being there when Jason died.

Tim needless say was shocked when Dick stormed out of the cave. Dick the one who always had a smile on his face. Who always tried to get along with everyone. The one to always deescalate the situation when tempers rose. In all his time living with Bruce he had never seen Dick that furious at anything least of all Bruce.

Why hadn't Bruce told Dick about Jason? He had understood why he wasn't told. Was Bruce just trying to hide it? Did Bruce have something to do with the Red Hood disappearance? 

The streets had been chaotic when Red Hood disappeared. Though His methods were flawed they worked and showed results. Results that even Batman couldn't produce in such a short time period. 

Tim only knew Jason and the Red Hood are the same person because he stumbled upon it a few weeks ago. When Tim had been looking for something relating to a frustrating case. 

But why didn't Dick know? Not telling everyone made sense they never met Jason. But not telling his own son that his brother was alive. Did Alfred even know if Dick didn't? 

Tim yawned, blinking at the blurry he stared at the screen.

Setting his coffee down he clicked out of Jason's file.

Whatever was about to go down wouldn't be pleasant.

-(Jason POV)

Jason slowly drifted to consciousness, feeling sluggish, everything feeling off in an unexplainable way.

“What is going on?” a familiar frustrated voice yelled.

“We don't know it was only supposed to reverse the effects of the Lazarus pit, not turn him into a teenager” another voice replied panicked.

Were they talking about him? He didn't want to be a teenager again.

Heart pounding he opened his eyes. Burry blobs of shapes and color met his eyes making it impossible to make anything out.

Forcing his eyes to focus Jason realized he was on his stomach on an operating table with medical equipment surrounding him.

“If that's all that happened then continue” called the familiar voice.

What were they doing to him?

“But sir his body is in a very fragile condition after…” called the other voice as it was abruptly cut off.

“I don't care what condition his body is in, continue the injections” growled the familiar voice as something clattered to the floor.

 Glancing around he spotted Ruben Irie in the corner of his eye hovering over a plump nurse that Jason sometimes saw. Rubens face was red looking furious as he screamed out something unintelligible at the nurse. 

Maybe if he pretended to still be out of it he could get more information.

“The boy is awake sir” called a plump nurse.

Immediately putting a halt in his plan. 

“How is he awake” screamed Dr Irie at the nurse. Opening her mouth to respond she was quickly cut off. “Nevermind that, just get him under again” spat Dr Irie.

Breathing heavily heart pounding he tried to stand up only to find himself restrained. 

Of course they had to restrain him just to make his life more difficult.

Thrashing against the restraints Jason managed to get an arm free. It felt smaller than it should be.

Did they actually manage to de-age him by accident? Of course they actually did, it's Gotham.

Spotting an approaching nurse approaching, needle glinting in her hand he thrashes harder. Only to be held down by two men dressed in lab coats who appeared out of nowhere.

Feeling the needle pierce his arm he tried to jerk away only to be held more firmly to the table. 

The world slowly grew fogger strength draining out of him he fell limp on the medical table. The last thing he remembered was a doctor softly saying.

“That's it, now go to sleep”.was the last thing he heard before everything faded into oblivion.

Chapter Text

Damian stomach flip flopped as he poked at his food. His akhi hadn't shown up for their meeting last night. He knew akh could take care of himself but… huffing he frowned why was he thinking like that akh could take care of himself. So what if he didn't show up he could have been busy after getting home that night from wherever he went.

“Master Damian, stop playing with your food. You may not have school today but it is still important to eat a full meal” remarked Alfred. “That goes the same for you to Master Bruce” Alfred called over his shoulder as Bruce walked in. 

Shoving the spoon into his mouth the oatmeal tasted like ash on his tongue. His lips twitched down as he swallowed, forcing his gag reflex down. Glancing at his oatmeal he shoved more of it on his spoon. Usually Alfred oatmeal tasted good, so it must just be him. 

Loud pounding footsteps sounded as Dick walked in cradling a bowl of cereal scanning the room as if looking for something. Darkened as he spotted Bruce. Walking to the table Dick slammed his unfinished bowl of cereal down. Making Damian Finch as milk and bits of cereal splashed all over the table.

Get a hold of yourself, you're the demon heir. You can't make yourself seem weaker just because akh didn't show up.

Smoothing out his features he resumed eating the oatmeal.

“Master Richard” scolded Alfred as he moved over with a rag “ what has gotten into you”.

“Sorry Alf” apologized Dick wincing, looking apologetic as rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly before whipping around face morphing into scowl as he stared down Bruce. “But you really should be asking Bruce that question”.

“Why is that Master Richard?” Alfred remarked, looking up from the mess raising an eyebrow.

“I don't know, how about the fact that Jason somehow is alive and he didn't feel the need to tell us”.

As soon as the words left Dicks mouth everything seemed to come to a halt as no one dared to move. 

Did they know that Jason was Red Hood ? Didn't he reveal himself like five months ago. Looking at father he saw the blood drain out of his father's face.

The silence as Dick stared down Father was only interrupted by Thomas, no wait, Duke speaking up.

“Who is Jason?” Duke inquired, confusion plastered on his face.

“Really Bruce” Tim remarked, walking into the room with a cup of tea in his hand(as he was banned from coffee for the day again). “I expected you not to tell everyone that Jason was Red Hood but really shouldn't they know who Jason is?” Turning to Duke he replied to his question “Jason was the second Robin he died after the joker beat him up in Ethiopia”. 

Sitting down and Tim started attacking his oatmeal leaving people shell shocked at the blunt statement.

Shoving another spoon of the cold oatmeal in his mouth he looked over at Father, finding an expression of guilt plastered over Father's face.

Did father do something to Jason? Is that why he didn't show up? What if he was put in arkham. Akh didn't deserve to go to Arkham yea he killed, but it was justified. Those people were the bottom scum of the planet. They deserved to die. Akh was careful who he killed; they were people who had been given a chance to change but hadn't. 

He would kill his father himself if he put akh in Arkham. Putting his akh in the same prison as joker was unforgivable. He had seen first hand what kind trauma joker had given him. The endless nights of him screaming and crying in his sleep, the panic attacks whenever he saw a crowbar. Damian had seen it all every twisted side effect that the joker caused.

“Are you okay Damian” looking up he saw Duke staring at him.

“I'm fine Thomas I just surprised you didn't know who Jason was” Damian responded smoothing over his features. He could believe he slipped and let emotion show he was trained out of that a long time ago. They could not know that he knew Akh.

“Really because it looked like you wanted to murder someone” Tim piped in before turning back to his food.

“Tt” Damian replied, full of amusement. Not like they could tell, his akh was the only one who could With that thought a pang of longing went through him. Though he quickly tried to dismiss it.

Even as he so badly wanted to curl up on ahk lap and fall asleep while akh played with his hair. Sweet reassurances being whispered in his ear as he was held close.

Get a hold of yourself Damian, you know that that is never going to happen.

“What happened between you and Jason” Dick growled, interrupting Damian out of his thoughts. 

Damian glanced up seeing a stricken face pasted over Fathers features.

“Bruce answer me,” Dick prodded.

“Okay I'll tell you” Bruce responded, voice stuttering as he visually shook. “But before I do” Bruce shook quickly being cut off by Dick.

“Stop stalling Bruce just cut to the chase what happened” Dick growled impatience ringing in his voice.

“I miscalculated while throwing a bat-irang and ended up hitting his hand instead of the gun he was holding. I was just so afraid” 

“Afraid of what” hissed dick cutting off Father again.

“Dick just let me explain” Bruce calmly responded waiting till Dick gave the signal to go ahead. “I was afraid of him hurting himself. He wasn't mentally stable during our conversation. He pointed a gun to his own head” Bruce choked out shaking as tears dripped down his face. “ He did it because I refused to kill the joker. I wish I could do it now. I wish I had the strength to kill the joker now. I didn't want to lose him again and I miscalculated now I don't know if he is alive or not.” Father was bawling at this point trying to smother his own choked sobs.

“If you didn't want to lose him again why did you ever turn your back on him” Damian inquired tilling his head. 

“I thought getting him away from the Joker was the best thing to do. But I was wrong. I should have lef

t with him rather than the joker.

Chapter Text

Why did the universe decide that he had to suffer today? His day was going great or good as it usually is after a night of fighting till Robert approached him. Most days he could handle or avoid Robert and his stuck up attitude. But today he just didn't have the energy to.

He wasn't even supposed to be working today. It was supposed to be his day off but they were short a couple officers. It usually wouldn't be too much of an issue even with his nightly hobbies. But Dick had been keeped up late last night after a gang war broke out between Black Mask and Red Hood.

Black Mask was getting bolder in his moves as he slowly disabled Red Hood's presence in Crime Alley.
Last night was of the many skirmishes between Red Hoods and Black Mask goons.

Black Mask was becoming more and more of a problem the more territory he gained back from Red Hood. Realizing before even Tim noticed that the Red Hood had vanished. Seemingly off the planet without a sighting of him for months.

After a weeks of infuriating searching they had found his civilian identity but the trail went dark around the same time of his initial disappearance. Leaving them with a straight dead end.

Dick had been looking forward to looking for Jason today but that was interrupted by the same gang war they had last night. Which left Tim as the only one that was looking for Jason.

A sharp chuckle erupted from Robert interrupting Dick thoughts.

“They didn't even fight back when we put him in meta handcuffs” Robert remarked, raising his arms for dramatic effect.

What were they talking about right now?
Why did you put him in meta handcuffs?” Amy questioned, raising her eyebrow. “Wouldn't normal handcuffs work just fine?”

“He broke out of the normal handcuffs. Surprised he didn't get far when he made a run for it. Seemed like the kind of guy that would be hard to catch. In hindsight we probably should have tried the meta handcuffs first. The green glowing eyes were a total give away” Robert remarked snorting a smug smile plastered on his face.

“What did he have to do with the robbery again?” Amy asked, lips down turned, eyes focused on Robert.
“He engaged with the robbery even though we had it under control” Robbert replied dryly, taking a bite out of his bagel.
“Did he tell you why he engaged”
“He said it was because of the kid that the robber was using as leverage. But he is from Crime Alley so he probably has another agenda in mind. Probably needed the money for drugs or something. Plus you can't trust anyone from there. They are all dirty scumbags.” Robert snorted, taking a long gulp of coffee.

Dick imagined his fist slamming into the officer's face as Robert laughed that same irritating dry chuckle, continuing his story. Anger swirled in Dick gut. How could he believe that they were all horrible people just because of where they came from. Jason was not some dirt that the world was better off without. He was a person with human emotions that just got the short end of life. Glancing over at Amy he noted her clenched jaw and fist her stance shifting as if she was getting ready to punch.

“Robert, we really need to be going. We are supposed to be working on a case right now” Amy remarked, interrupting with an apologetic smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. Glancing at his watch Dick realized that she was right they were going to be late at this point.
“But we would love to hear the rest of the story later” Amy called, turning around Grabbing Dick arm, Amy guided him with more force necessary out the door. Let go she started walking at a brisk pace to the car. Slamming the door as she climbed in the driver's seat. Dick noted as he climbed in that Amy's hands clenched tightly on the steering wheel. Tension then visibly melted from Amy's body as the car rumbled out of the parking lot.

“Can you believe Robert, that moron thinks that he can do whatever he wants”Amy Huffed turning to him. Amy frowned looking at him like he grew a second head. “You heard what he said right?”

Dick could feel it as all the blood drained out of his face. He groaned internally how does he get himself in these situations. He had no clue what they were talking about in the slightest.

“I'm taking your silence as a no,” Amy remarked, raising an eyebrow at him.

Dick sighed pouting “I'm taking a guess that you won't tell me”.

Amy just raised her eyebrows higher before relenting.
“Fine, but only because I want to criticize Robert and his reasoning for doing anything”.

Smiling cheekily Dick prodded “so what's the tea”.
Amy rolled her eyes at him before beginning the story.
“So a few months ago there was apparently some armed robbery at some convenience store”.
-
Months Earlier

Jason sighed as he walked down the aisles of the small convenience store. Mentally going through all the things he needed to restock his safe house taping his finger nervously on the cart.

A stab of pain went through his left hand as he grabbed a can off the shelf. It had only been a week since his confrontation with Bruce and the hand was still healing to his annoyance and hurting like hell while doing so. Grimacing he put the can into his cart making his way to the produce section.

Shots echoed through the store. Jason instinctively ducks down as he mentally curses his luck.
So much for lying low and not catching Batman's attention. He just wanted something besides ramen for once. Was that so hard to ask for?

Apparently the universe decided that it was because just then another gunshot rang out that was quickly followed by a high pitched scream.

Cursing under his breath he ran towards the source of the gun shots ditching his cart. Fear coursing through him making his heart pound faster in his chest. He shouldn't be running toward the sound he should be running away. Ducking past the aisles he slowly made his way to the front of the store.

Slowly halting he spotted the culprit of the commotion standing with a gun pointed at a child's head. Green roared and tinted his vision. Jumping out of the aisle he ran towards the disgusting excuse for a human being.

Pouncing on them he twisted the gun out of their grasp.Jason flicked on the safety and tossed it aside. The gun rattled as it hit the ground safely out of the grasp of the robber.

Ducking Jason Kicked the feet of the now disarmed robber sweeping out their legs out from under them. Twisted them to the ground, easily restraining them.

“Freeze” someone called behind him. Keeping his firm grip on the robber Jason glanced behind him. Swearing as he spotted police with their tazers and guns pointed right at him.

Jason was then pushed roughly face being smashed against the floor. Pain shot up his arm making Jason gasp as they shoved his hand into handcuffs. The collar of his shirt tightened around his throat as Jason was forced to his feet.

“You're under arrest” declared the officer behind him.
“Tell me something I don't know, you put me in handcuffs of course I'm under arrest” Jason sarcastically snorted trying to glare at the officer behind him. “ The question is why I'm being arrested, not that I'm under arrest,” Jason added, rolling his eyes.
“We got to take you in for questioning for engaging” the officer replied, raising an eyebrow.
Green tinted his vision. Who did they think they were? They only engaged after he did. They just waited till it was convenient for them. He was only trying to protect the kid. Why couldn't they see that? Then they arrested him with a crappy reason.
“He is a meta see his eyes are glowing he forced me to rob this place.” bursts out the robber who was straining against the officers holding him.
He needed to get out of here. These idiots couldn't see the truth and he really didn't want to see Batman right now. For being a supposed meta.
Grabbing the bobby pin off the bottom hem of his shirt he fumbled with the lock. Taking the robber distraction to escape.

A barely audible click sounded as the handcuffs unlocked. Honestly they should change the locks on the handcuff because this was child's play. Jason fumbled to catch the handcuffs as they slipped off making a loud clattering sound as they hit the floor.

Crap that could have gone smoother. Doing what any sane person would do he bolted. Twisting past the officers as he ran. Hopefully he could outrun them; he knew the streets better than most from his years as Robin.

Ducking past the entrence his feet pounded on the cement as he ran. Curving around a corner he felt a small sting on his ankle. Before he could react his legs spasmed with electricity making him stumble. Giving the officer just enough time to slam him into the sidewalk effectively pinning Jason to the ground.
Rough skin scraped against his hands forcing them together. A small click followed by a slight hum as his hands were jammed carelessly into meta restraints.

He wasn't even a meta but honestly the more offensive thing here was that the fact meta handcuffs can't be taken off by the person who is in them.
“How did you get out of the hand cuffs?” an officer Huffed trying to catch his breath drawing Jason out of his thoughts. How stupid is this officer? Did he think he would actually tell him? They didn't even pat him down after they handcuffed him. That was their first mistake. Not like they would find the lock pick anyways.

Honestly at this point he rather deal with Batman than this idiotic officer. Probably going to end up going to deal with the old man anyway. Jason looked the officer straight in the eyes and snorted, rolling his eyes. Well this was a mess and was going to be an even bigger mess to sort out. Might as well give everyone a headache in the process.

-
Present

Taking a sip from his coffee he nodded to Amy to continue.
“Robert said that the guy had a weird scar on his hand that looked like someone tried to take it off with a knife”
Dick sharply inhaled, getting a lung full of coffee sputtering he spat the scalding coffee out.
Mind going to what Bruce said yesterday morning.
‘I miscalculated while throwing a bat-irang and ended up hitting his hand’ echoed the ghost of Bruce's voice repeating itself as he coughed.
“Are you okay?” Amy apologized, sounding concerned.
“Yea I'm fine but you made me spit out my coffee” he complained, putting a pout scrambling to clean it up mind racing.
Could this John Doe be Jason? Jason aways did hate giving his name to people. Plus he couldn't really give his real name if he was legally dead.
“I don't think that abomination that you drink can even be called coffee” Amy Huffed breaking him out of his mental spiral. Shaking her head in a way that looked more fond than irritated.
“We're here, I'll tell you the rest of the story later” Amy remarked, pulling up to an apartment complex. Turning off the ignition Amy unbuckled exiting the car waiting for Dick to follow. Sighting he unbuckled, opening the door he exited. Jason would have to wait just a bit longer.

Chapter Text

Months Earlier

“What is your full name” grilled the officer who Jason learned name was Robert.

“Toad petters” Jason deadpanned lying. He was bored out of his mind. They keep asking the same question over and over again. By now they should just give up and try to identify him through other means.

“That your Allis not your name now again what is your name” growled Robert his hand going red as he gripped the table tightly. This of course just made Jason snort. Not like they would believe him if he told him his real name. It's not like they didn't have other means to identify him, he was in their system. If only they were smart enough to take prints or DNA.

“Wouldn't you like to know, funny boy” Jason snorted, enjoying watching Robert's face twist in frustration.

“Just tell me” demanded Robert, throwing up his hand in frustration.

“Na it's more fun messing with you plus I'm legally dead so…” Jason trailed off.

“Did you fake your own death?” Robert asked brows furrowed

“Nope” he replied, popping the p “I died and everything” telling the truth knowing no one would believe him. Honestly he couldn't make sense of how he came back either.

“That is impossible once you're dead, you’re dead” exclaimed Robert pinching the bridge of his nose. It reminded Jason of how Bruce would do the same thing when exasperated. He wished Bruce was here right now with his unyielding gaze and strong demeanor. That was hidden behind a goofy play boy personality. Despite their latest fight or confrontation he so desperately wanted to bury himself into his father figure arms.

“Well I hate to defy expectations. But I clearly remember nearly dying by swallowing dirt when clawing my way up from my grave. Plus I have autopsy scars and they are pretty hard to fake” snorted Jason. Why did it have to be Bruce's ex that found him in the first place? He was on the streets for weeks catatonic and they still didn't notice. Drawing himself out of his thoughts as they turned to bitter hate. He watched Robert face twisted looking disturbed while ready to throw a chair across the room in frustration.

Robert then turned to a corner and Jason heard labored breath he then glanced over at Robert as he turned to face him where he took a lengthy pause. Probably taking the time to think of a response to Jason's outlandish answers that Jason delivered with a serious demeanor. All while Jason was enjoying every second of watching Robert squirm uncomfortably as the chaos unfold.

“Just tell me your name and stop goofing around” groaned Robert again reaching up to pinch the bridge of his nose.“You're starting to sound like the Joker” Robert murmured under his breath so it was just barely audible.

“Don't compare me to I’m nothing like him” Jason snapped green, flooding his vision. He was nothing like Joker, he didn't hurt the innocent. He didn't even follow through with the plan to hurt Tim. Realizing that if he did he would be the same thing that he vowed to kill. After Bruce showed that he was no longer considered a part of their makeshift family by slitting his hand open. Jason was fine, he didn't need family anyways, he could do just fine all on his own.

“Then just tell me your name” exclaimed Robert throwing up his hand again for what felt like to Jason the thousandth time.

“You wouldn't believe me if I told you so what is the use” calmly responded Jason. It was true though who would believe that he was Jason Peter Todd-Wayne who was back from the dead.

“You're insane” gasped Robert looking at Jason with the stupidest expression on his face.

“I'm not going around making strange hallucinogens and spraying them in people's faces, doesn't that prove otherwise.” He countered rolling his eyes. It was true though compared to the rouges he was perfectly sane.

“The fact you think you dug yourself out of your own grave proves you don't have quite grasp on sanity” Retorted Robert, still not convinced.

“Are you almost done, in there?” shouted another officer in the hallway.

“Yea but I think we have another nut case here” Robert called back leaning backwards in his chair crossing his arm behind his head. The from earlier melting from Roberts face.

Jason snorted if this was another tactic to get him to talk it wasn't going to work.

“Quiet you” sneered Robert as he grimaced at Jason like he was something that was disgusting between his nails.

“Didn’t quite catch that” called the officer as they moved closer to the open door.

“I think we have another for Arkham,” Robert gushed, smiling at Jason with an evil grin.

Not Arkham anything besides Arkham they couldn't possibly send him there maybe Black Gate. But they did even know he was Red Hood. How could they possibly send him to Arkham? Jason was panicking, the Joker was in Arkham. As his thoughts turned to Joker he heard the faint echo of the Joker's sinister voice saying.
“Forehand or backhand” as the sound of metal hitting metal echoed in his ears in the background.

“Please anything but Arkham” Jason choked out tears running down his face.“ I tell you what you want to know just don't put me in Arkham”he added heart beating furiously in his chest.

“Too late buddy boy, you're going to Arkham. But hey at least you will have your own cell in max security” Robert replied halling Jason Todd his feet.

That is when he truly started sobbing, pure ugly sobbing.

This was so unfair he didn't really do anything he just saved a child's life and he was the one being punished for it. While the robber was getting off Scot free.

“Please” Jason gasped through his sobs as he was guided out of the interrogation room.

“It's not up to me” Robert whispered as he leaned to Jason's ear making him give a involuntary flinch.

Jason felt his heart rate increase again. Robert wasn't lying; somebody orchestrated this entire thing and he fell right into their trap.

-
Present
“They ended up sending him to Arkham, I'm pretty sure they never got a name.” Amy remarked, making Dick thoughts swirl. He hadn't seen Jason in years but this had to be Jason Dick mind affirmed.

Dick mind eased at the thought of being one step closer to finding Jason in the twisted corruption in the Gotham police department. Whoever was playing this player was failing at the most crucial part of the game, keeping the silence. After all you only could buy a person silence for so long.

It made him hate Robert and it turned his stomach that it was that easy to bride a police officer. Cause there was no way Robert would keep this quiet in the first place without a little persuasion.

Dick stepped out of the car and waved goodbye to Amy as she drove away. Watching the car slowly disappear in the distance not daring to move. Breaking his gaze he made his way quickly to the manor’s porch. Opening the door he was quickly greeted by his array of siblings.

Jason would love his new siblings that filled the manor making moments of silence or peace rare and few. He had always remarked how silent it was and how he wished it wasn't during one of their few conversations before he had died. They could have more conversations now since Jason now was alive. Giving Dick a second chance to be a better brother to Jason.

Taking a deep breath he loudly announced “ I’ve got a lead on Jason”. This of course made the manor erupt in chaos as everyone started asking ten million questions.
-
Tim blinked blurry at the screen of the bat computer as it slowly loaded. The bat computer had some of the highest computing power in the world. Yet it still had problems loading right now.

All Tim had wanted to do was to look at the news surrounding Arkham. After Dick got some tip from inside of the G.P.D that there was an inmate in Arkham under the name of John doe. That appeared around when Jason/ Red Hood had vanished.

You think they could just check for the John Doe through either their archives or Arkhams but the inmate wasn't listed on either. Something was definitely going on here even if he didn't believe all that Dick had recalled.

But apparently even asking the Internet to work was too hard to ask for. Anything surrounding Arkham had crashed and was under attack like someone knew they were on to them. The fact that this was just to buy themselves some time was frustrating but the fact that it was actually working was infuriating. The virus shouldn't even work . It was the simplest one Tim had seen yet the kind most web sites could defend themselves against. Yet it still got in and wreaked havoc acting like someone who didn't know what they were doing made it with a YouTube video with a lot of improvising.

Typing out the last bit of code he entered into the database. Tim yawned as the antivirus did its job cleaning up the corrupted text and making it readable again. Stretching he swung around in the chair before getting another cup of tea (as he was still banned from anything with caffeine). Taking a long sip before he turned back around with a mug in hand he scanned the screen. Pride swelled as he saw that his antivirus had done its job. Sitting down he started reading the news skipping over anything covering recent escapes.

He didn't have to go very far before an article caught his attention. ‘HOW YOUNG ARE ARKHAM INMATES; all of them listed in order with some you never heard of ’ it read. Feeling his interest spike despite them already having all the information on the bat computer he clicked on the article.

Scanning through all the information he read though information he already knew. Scrolling to the bottom he glanced at the comments raising his eyebrow as one caught his eye, it read “Don't trust this article they recently had a young adult and now they have a teenager in Arkham. Arkham is corrupt and the doctors are cruel; they will lie straight to your face about what is going on, in there”.

Going back to the homepage Tim refreshed the page. A new article popped up ‘Arkham asylum worker found dead; Elaine Barker found dead in home (Click here to read more)’.

After reading the article he dug through her background. She was clean except for a few speeding tickets and with that she wasn't evolved in any gangs making her an unlikely target for them. That just begged the question of who would want to kill her.

About to call it a night when he recalled the strange comment from earlier. The person who made that comment had the initials of the person who was just barely murdered. If they were the same person, someone wanted to keep her from sharing more.

Tim backtracked to the previous article only to find the comment removed. Running a hand through his hair he resisted the urge to scream before sitting back in the chair getting to work hacking.

After what felt like hours he finally confirmed that that comment did in fact come from the worker who had her throat slit open. Confirming the fact that the information was most likely trust worthy of someone went through all the trouble to silence her. Which begged the question why there was a teenager in Arkham.

Chapter Text

Jason huddled under the cell's sink curling into the smallest ball possible. His cell looming over his small form. He shivered as the concrete bit into his back his clothes that he now swam in provided little comfort against the freezing interior of the cell.

Metal grinded on itself screeching as the mechanism slowly opened the cell. Clenching his fists Jason curled up tighter.

What did they want with him this time? More medicine that I supposedly need? Another shot that twists my body into something more unrecognizable then it already was? What was the point of twisting my body back to a teenager's?

Jason's nostrils still burned with the stink of rotting flesh at the reminder of that night. The ghosts of his own screams echoed in his head followed by a chilling laugh and the sound of bones snapping and rearranging themselves making his form smaller and weaker. The pit raged at first then slowly dissolved as if it was erasing itself from Jason.

“Little Bat now where are you” called the familiar voice of Doctor Irie making Jason could feel his breath pick up as the voice echoed against the walls.

“I got a little something for you” called Ruben Irie in a sing-song tone, his figure coming into view. Jerking back Jason let out a squeak as Ruden slammed his food tray on the wall.

“Oh there you are” Ruben purred as he spotted Jason under the sink.

“How did you contact your Father Bat?” Doctor Irie interrogated all of the sweetness vanished from his voice. As he dragged Jason out from under the sink slamming Jason's small body with ease into the wall. Leveling him with a venomous look in his eyes. Jason mind spun the only people who he even had contact with were the doctors. Why did he think he contacted anyone?

“I didn't” Jason choked out clawing at the hand around his neck trying futilely to draw breath.

“Really I find that hard to believe they are coming tonight. Your little insider made sure of that plus she was a pain to get rid of.” Black spots danced in his vision Dr Irie spoke “How did you even get her to pass along the information for you? Did you bribe her? Threaten to kill her family?” Ruben growled impatiently. Black spots now swam in his vision and he was pretty sure his lips were turning blue. After a second Ruben loosing his grip around Jason's neck.

“I didn't bribe or threaten anybody. They aren't going to come why would they suddenly care about someone they put in here themselves” Jason remarked still clawing at the hand that held his small frame to the wall.

“That's laughable, you Bats really aren't as smart as they say you are. First of all you believe I believe that you didn't do any to weasel your way out of here. Also for your information little bat” Ruben remarked bitterly “they didn't know you were in here until yesterday”.

“Then why am I in here if they didn't put me here” Jason remarked exasperated as he struggled to breathe in Ruben tightening grasp as his mind raced with questions.

Did Bruce really not put him in Arkham? Did the police know about his crimes as Red Hood? And if so, how did the police know them? Also, were the bats really coming for him? How was it hidden that he was in Arkham? The Bat computer was connected to Arkham archives; it alerted them when anything happened in Arkham. The only way for them not to know he is there is for him to be completely off of any Arkham record.

“I think you know why, Red Hood or should I say Jason Peter Todd-Wayne. You need to pay for your crimes against the innocent.” snarled Ruben kneeling Jason in the crotch before dropping Jason to the ground. Jason lay on the ground gasping hands flying to his neck.

What did he mean he never hurt the innocent he was careful not to. He studied his targets for months before he purposefully killed them. Contrary to common beliefs he didn't kill everyone he did like. Sure some of them made it out with a bullet hole or broken bones but they weren't dead.

“What the hell are you talking about? The only crimes I've committed were against the guilty and scum of the earth” Jason spat voicing his thoughts looking defiantly at Ruben as he grasped his neck where he could feel bruises already forming.

“You forgot how convenient” Ruben remarked dryly as if laughing at some joke. “But don't worry you remember by the time I’m done with you” Ruben declared with a grin stretching wide on his face reminding Jason of the joker.

Pulling out a syringe Ruben grabbed Jason's arm. Jason lashed out breaking free of Dr Irie grasp he grabbed for the needle catching Ruben's hand in the process. Jason twisted Ruben's hand trying to disarm him of the needle only to be slammed into the wall with a faint popping noise.

Agony tore into his shoulder making Jason let out a choked scream, vision whiting out for a moment. Vision clearing as black spots danced in his vision as he tried to thrash and loosen his captor grip only to be held down. He whimpered as he felt a needle poke his arm.

“You cheated death once but you won't cheat it this time” Dr Irie darkly chuckled as he drained the contents of the syringe into Jason.

“What makes you think you can kill me this time?” Jason resolved, trying to keep his voice steady as he spoke. He was pretty sure that his arm was dislocated. “The Joker couldn't manage keeping me dead. Why do you think that you are capable of it? Plus my body will just burn through anything you give me.”

“Hmm, because unlike the Joker I don't mind playing the long game” Dr Irie gloated. “Curiously you can actually reverse the effects of Lazarus water. Most would say that it is impossible but hey look at me I found a way to reverse the irreversible”.

That that was impossible you couldn’t reverse the effects of the lazarus pit. Did this guy think that he was a god? Jason had tried over and over again to get rid of the lazarus pit. It never had worked. Yea had it uses like accelerated healing but it messes with the mind. Jason snorted because quite frankly it sounded impossible.

"Don't scoff at me boy. That pesky Lazarus water was the key to immortality but you no longer have that key. Look at you, you're just a weak teenager now. You have every reason to fear for your life” Ruben ranted while picking Jason up with his hair. Kneeing him in the stomach before slamming Jason face into the wall there was a faint crack noise.

The cracking of bones…don't think about that right now he couldn’t live through that again.

Jason's stomach started flipping at the reminder of that night. Heaving he gagged on the sour mucus-like contents that left his stomach. The bile splattered on the ground making a wet smacking noise, Dr Irie looked at it in disgust.

“You're a disgusting filthy creature not worth the ground you walk on” Ruben remarked glowering down at Jason. Flipping Jason over he was now laying on his back momentarily stunned as Ruben brought his foot up and slammed it down on Jason’s ribs.

Pain exploded in his chest making it nearly impossible to breathe. Gasping trying to bring air into his lungs Jason glanced at the doctor as another foot slammed down on his chest. Ruben eyes glinted as his mouth curved into an impossibly wide smile that resembled Joker's bloody smile.

Jason curled into a ball as the hits kept coming. Each blow is relentless as they shattered his bones.

“Cowering now when the fun just began” Ruben drawled as he picked Jason up by his hair and flung him back into the wall.

Jason whimpered as the world became blurry with pain. All he wanted right now was curl into his adoptive father's arms and pretend like Bruce could protect him from the whole world. It was something that he had done before their fight about Felipe Garzona's death.

Jason had ruined any chance that he could go back to Bruce. Their confrontation burned in his mind. Bruce couldn't kill yet he and the pit had demanded just like all the people he had killed. Now that he was thinking about it, how much of what he did in the months leading up to his imprisonment was actually him and not the pit?

Chapter Text

Bruce tried to focus on the board meeting but thoughts kept turning towards Jason. Was he okay? Was he hurt? Could he really be in Arkham? What was he going to do if it wasn't Jason in Arkham. Repeated it self over and over in his head 

Jason probably hated him after the whole catastrophe with the Joker. For God's sake he sliced open Jason's hand. What kind of father was he? If he couldn't even aim right when trying to save his son's life. He shouldn't have ever miscalculated in the first place. 

Turning his thoughts back to the meeting at hand he glanced at the time. Only fifteen minutes left before it ended. Mentally groaning he stubbornly glanced at the clock again, each second seemed to take twice as long as the last. Is this what his kids felt when in a boring class at school? 

His stomach rolled uneasy, the feeling of dread crawling up his throat. Silently sighing he started mentally preparing himself for what the night would bring trying desperately to spend time up. 

When the meeting finally adjourned Bruce hastily stood to try and make his exit.

“Bruce, are you okay? You seem a bit out of it.” Lucius Fox called. Placing a hand firmly on Bruce’s shoulder halting Bruce's escape.

“Yeah I'm good. Just another prank war started and I'm not looking forward to whatever they planned for me this time. Don’t want to leave the kids alone for too long or it escalates” he replied chuckling looking Lucius in the eyes feigning exasperation. He didn't like lying to Lucius but it was better if he didn't get involved with Batman. If it was up to him Bruce wouldn't have any of his kids out on the streets fighting crime.

“Wouldn’t Alfred stop it from becoming too escalated?” Lucius questioned brows furrowed drawing Bruce back to the present.

“You would think so but unfortunately Alfred finds it more amusing than anything”. Bruce was pretty sure Alfred actually encourages it most of the time and was an actual part of the planning.

“Is that why you came to work covered in glitter and shaving cream?” Lucius giggled, eyes glittering. 

“Yeah pretty sure that was Dick's idea”.

“Wait, isn't Dick an adult, why would he be a part of the prank war?”

“You think that being twenty six would make him more mature but unfortunately it doesn't” he deadpanned. “Just last week I had to ground him from eating cereal. I'm not sure which fact is more surprising: the fact that I still have to ground a twenty six year old or the fact that he actually sort of listened to me” Bruce complained. Pinching the bridge of his nose with fond exasperation. His smile nearly faltered as he tried to further sell his lie.

“You know you can share anything with me, Bruce. Because you and I both know that wasn't the only thing going on in your mind” Lucius insisted, face and voice turning serious.

“I'll ask for help if I need it. But this time I got it handled” he calmly stated. Only the thump of his heart betrays his lie.

“If you say so Bruce”

Hastily existing Bruce glared at any one that tried to stop him. He couldn't be too late for Jason again; he already failed him too many times.

-

Pulling up to the manor he impatiently parked. He barely even bothered to put the keys away before he rushed up to the study. Upon entering the study he made his way to the grandfather clock that stood in the corner of the room. Not bothering to check if anyone was watching he moved the hands of the clock to 10:48.

Upon entering the cave Bruce started preparing for the long night ahead. One way or another he would find Jason. Bruce wouldn't be too late this time he swore to himself he wouldn't allow himself to be late ever again.

Steeling himself he applied the cowl and exited the caves dressing rooms.

The noise halted as Bruce walked out dressed as Batman. Looking up he met the faces of his children staring at him fully dressed in their vigilante suits. Damian dressed as Robin broke the silence.

“Father we are coming with you to Arkham” Damian stated boldly trying to leave no room for argument.

Taking a deep breath he sighed as he let it out. 

“Damian it is a school night” he reasoned.

“Everyone else is going” Damian countered tilting his chin up while crossing his arms.

“No they are not, Cass and Stephanie are covering the patrols while Dick and Tim are going with me. You and Duke are staying here.”

“Why do both Grayson and Drake get to go and I do not. I am your partner, as Robin it is my right to go with you. Besides, Tim has school tomorrow so why isn't he staying here.”

“This is both Dicks and Tim's case.If it were up to me they wouldn't be coming at all.”

“Then with that logic Batman shouldn't be going. It is not your case.”

“I'm going because it has potential links to a case I have been working on. Also Gordon wanted me to help check out the asylum based on an anonymous tip given. I didn't even tell him that Nightwing and Red Robin were coming.

“T-t we both know you are going just to see if the prisoner is Todd.”

He took one long last look at Damian before turning around motioning to Tim and Dick to follow. 

“Alfred make sure Damian stays here and gets to bed” he called as he stalked towards the batmobile. 

“Will do Master Bruce” Alfred remarked. Bruce was sure he heard Alfred muttering under his breath ‘oh the joy of having to babysit your man child children’.

Climbing into the batmobile it screeched off into the night. 

While he drove, Damian's expression lingered in his mind. Damian looked close to tears despite his effort to try to hide it. That just begged the question why did Damian care about this mission so much? He knew that there were just some missions that he didn't include Robin in. Why did he feel like he was missing something important?

Chapter Text

- (Dick POV)

Shadows ebbed and flowed as if conscious as their footsteps echoed down the long corridor. Unease clouded his mind as they passed cell after cell each long since abandoned. Creating a sharp contrast with the brightly lit occupied cells above them. A pit of dread grew in his stomach as they stepped deeper into the asylum.

Dick's feet ached with each step he took as if they were reminding him that he didn't belong there. Letting out a silent sigh he mentally groaned as they went around another corner just to have another long corridor ahead.

“How deep does this place go, I mean it's got to end somewhere.” Tim questioned as he dragged a finger across the wall for a second then inspected his finger as he walked in front of Dick in his Red Robin gear.

Dick refocused the world using the conversation to ground himself. He was just glad he wasn't the one chatting or asking the questions for once. 

“Some say it goes straight down to hell but officially it only has three floors.” responded their guide tilting his head back to give a lazy grin.

“I thought it only had two floors?” Tim disputed, white lenses of his Red Robin mask narrowing. 

“The third floor is not really used for inmates, it's mostly used for storage. That is why it isn't on record.” Vidarr remarked giving an apologetic wince to Gordon, maybe Batman who hovered behind them all silently observing. Then Vidar turned back around to the locked door, unlocking it manually.

“But I'm guessing that is where we are going.” observed Tim as Vidar swiped a card across the handle of the door making a soft clicking noise as it unlocked. 

“Yep” Vidarr said, popping the p as he swung open the door. The lights slowly flickered on, illuminating a staircase that was barely wide enough for two people to pass if needed.

“Wonderful”muttered Dick under his breath as they made their way down the last staircase, the door clicking as it locked behind them.

At the end of the staircase they were met with another locked door. Dick shivered as the door swung open after clicking unlocked. The dark corridor triggered something cause now everything was shouting at Dick projecting danger.

Biting his tongue he stepped forward forcing his heart rate down.

The lights flickered, growing dimmer further they walked. 

The lights abruptly ended why did they just end like that? Some sort of money saving scheme. Before Dick could voice his confusion Vidarr silently whipped out a flashlight switching it on.

Water dripped down from somewhere among the cracked rusted metal bars and the peeling paint. Dick cringed internally, What condition was the patient in if their surroundings looked like this? How long did they wait to report this cause no one should live in these conditions.

"How long did you wait to report this no one should be living in these conditions" Tim gently questioned tilting his head as they walked.

"I have only worked a Arkham for three days I barely know my way around. Also I reported it my second day but no one took me seriously at first. Till I got a hold of commissioner Gordon." Vidarr said defensively as he halted turning around with his arms crossed flashing tuck between his arm shining at the ceiling. 

Turning back around Vidarr shined the flashlight at a panel that Dick hadn't noticed. Taking a piece of paper out of his pocket he started typing in a code. Beeping with approval the mechanisms started to unlock.

 They kept all their flashlights focused on the entrance. As metal ground against itself making a horrible screeching noise as the cell slowly opened. As the doors slid open it revealed a large cell. Dicks stomach dropped as their flashlights illuminated the cell. Why? repeated itself in Dick’s head as the world went hazy.  

His heart thudded in his chest as he choked on bile.

Red flooded his vision as he stood frozen staring mouth open. Turning away trying to shake the image from his head but it was too late. The color of fresh and old blood already clawed into the depths of his brain.

“That a lot of blood" Vidarr choked out sounding genuinely nauseous. It would be a miracle if anyone kept in here still alive, was left unsaid despite being on everyone's mind. 

Silently drawing in a deep breath Dick tried to ease the tightness growing in his throat. They had failed now to save two innocent people and it cost those people their lives. Those people most likely now had family members grieving for them or at least wondering what happened to them.

“Were you aware of this” growled Batman stalking closer to Vidarr.

“No...No, I would have reported it if I had known anything. I wouldn't even have access to the cell normally.” Vidar gasped out voice trembling face ashen as his eyes stayed fixed on the sight ahead of him. As if his eyes were glued there.

“Then who would” Batman growled as he moved closer like a predator stalking it's prey.

“Only...only the patient's main doctor...doctor would have access since...since it is a high security cell..cell” Vidarr stuttered as he clumsy responded to Batman. Fear practically radiating off him as he spoke.

“Who is the doctor” Batman growled in a softer tone then before deducting that he was telling the truth.

“From what I've heard he is a new part time hire. I think his name is either Doctor Ruben or maybe it was Irie." Vidarr ground out, obviously still terrified of Batman.

"Does he have any other patients?" Batman gruffly ground out as he quickly scanned the cell.

"No not that I'm aware of I think that John Doe was his only one. Like I said before I've only worked here for three days." Vidarr squeaked rubbing his arm as if he suppressing a shiver. "I've no idea how long he been here either from what I've gathered it's been around six to five months" Vidarr added difience shining in his eyes as he spoke to Batman.

That was around the same time that Red Hood disappeared. Every thing added up except for the fact that they were arrested for being a meta. Jason wasn't a meta in any form, Bruce had tested for that. But the police didn't test for it either so what if they were just mistaken.

Taping the side of his chin Dick pondered.

Wait..what if they just assumed he was a meta because of the glowing eyes. But what could give someone glowing green eyes.

If Dick was looking at him self in the mirror he was sure his eyes or lenses widened to a comically large size as he muttered under his breath.

"Lazarus Pit".

Gordon's flashlight clattered to the ground interrupting Dick out of his thoughts . As Gordon stood frozen staring at the corner of the room.

“Gordon what is it” Batman growled in a deep voice as he quickly moved to Gordon side.

“Impossible it doesn't make sense” Gordon muttered in a hushed tone. Moving closer Dick saw a lump a bloody clothes.

“What do you mean impossible and what doesn't make sense” Tim remarked confusion doting his voice as he moved to get a better look at better look a the lump.

“That is Jason Todd. I'm sure of it.” Gordon remarked with unwavering certainty and horror in his voice. Batman silently moved closer carefully rearranging what now Dick realized was a body swimming in clothes to big. Batman grunted, Dick recognized as a grunt of surprise. Balancing on his tip toes Dick spotted the body face.

Gasping softly Dick mind swirled.

“Didn't he die four years ago in a car crash?” Tim asked innocently feigning ignorance.

 “But he doesn't look any older.” Dick retorted voicing his thoughts not wanting to believe the unmistakable face of Jason Todd right in front of him.

“He's got a pulse, somebody get the EMT’s” Batman growled his tone urgent as he cradled the body of Jason look alike. Administering emergency first aid as he got up and walked with a brisk pace down the long corridor.

Following Batman Dick phoned Oracle.

"What's..."

"No time for chit chat we need a ambulance at Arkham now." 

-

(Damian POV) 

“Master Damian I think it would be wise if you turned in for the night”

Giving one last half hearted slash he relented. 

After a quick shower he made his way up stairs. Making his way to the den. 

They had said they were going to have a movie night. Damian would never admit it but he kind of liked the forts they made out of blankets and pillows. 

Upon entering the den sans pillow fort he glanced over at the TV. Damian spotting the enthusiastic face Vicki Vale felt his disgust double. 

Viki Vale: "I'm Vicki Vale reporting live from out side of Arkham. Our studio received a anonymous tip that Batman with Nightwing and Red Robin were seen entering Arkham Asylum with commissioner Gordon earlier this evening."

Damian's brow furrowed how did the news catch wind of this? It was supposed to be a stealth mission.

Viki Vale: "Right now we are waiting for a official statement on what is going on inside of Arkham.

Vicki Vale: "Wait."

Vicki Vale: "Yes."

Vicki Vale: "We have just barely received word that a ambulance is making it's way to Arkham right as we speak. I'm not sure what is going on but what ever it is it certainly is a big scoop for us here at Gotham globe."

Just then Batman burst out of the front doors making his way to that ambulance that just barely skidded to a halt.

Damian felt him self pale when he caught sight of the figure in Batman arms. It wasn't possible Ahki shouldn't look like that he hadn't looked like that in years. He felt him self disassociating as his eyes remained glued to the screen as all sounds faded away.

Curling into a ball Damian rocked himself back and forth. None of this was real Ahki is fine he just had a really good reason for not contacting him. That had to be it. Ahki was supposed to be big and strong so he could protect him, he...he'd promised.

He'd promised.

- (Damian POV)

Two years earlier 

Foot steps creaked softly Damian felt his breath get heavy as they drew closer.

Damian knew they could could hide much longer. Akhi must of realized the same thing because his arms tightened them selfs around Damian. Akhi fingers ran through his hair as if he was trying to calm Damian. 

It shouldn't have worked but Damian felt his breaths slow. Heat rushing up to his cheeks. 

Damian was trained out of being comforted like this practically from the time he was born. Yet his adoptive brother managed to change all of that and reverse it somehow.

Barely audible foot steps were creeping closer. They both knew that hiding was futitle and they would be found out one way or another.

< . < . < • > . > . >| < . < • > . > |< . < . < • > . > . > 

Damian winced as the heavy snap of the whip sounded again and again. He wasn't supposed to be here but he had snuck here to watch anyway.

This punishment was supposed to be his he was the one who failed. Not his brother, his Ahki didn't deserve any of this. His stomach swirled uncomfortably as the corners of his eyes stung. Damian found himself flinching at a particularly loud crack of the whip that buried it self deep into his brother back.

His brother just stood there and took the punishment as his defiance shone brightly in his eyes.

  < . < . < • > . > . >| < . < • > . > |< . < . < • > . > . >

Damian walked softly as he entered the room. His Ahki whipped around as Damian entered relaxing once he saw who it was.

Creeping up to his brother he started silently washing the deep slashes engraved on Ahki back. Gash after gash he cleaned feeling sicker with each one. Finally after wrapping up the slashes that would surely scar. Damian had enough, gathering up courage he spoke.

"Why did you do that? That was supposed to be my punishment" Damian questioned breaking the silence that had settled between them. 

"I'm big and strong so you don't have to be" 

"That isn't a reason and you know it" Damien countered staring straight into his Ahki eyes.

"Please Damian let me do this for you. You don't deserve any of this."

"Why do you deserve it then"

"Damian listen to me. No one deserves this kind of treatment."

"But it is to make us stronger" Damian countered confusion creeping into his voice.

Well that at least what he was aways told by Mother and Grandfather. But it has to be true there has to be a reason there's just gotta be.

"No Damian, it is pure cruelty to make a child bare the kind of weight you bare" Jason softly corrected as his eyes darted around as if searching for danger.

"So it is cruel to me but not you".

"I'm older so I can handle the weight better and the brunt of the beatings. Plus your my younger brother and I would do anything for you"

"Maybe then I don't want to be your brother." Damian remarked tears now dripping from his face.

"To bad you are my younger brother and nothing can change that." Ahki soothed with total seriousness looking Damian in the eye. Before he pulled Damian into a tight hug.

"I will always do my best to protect you whether I'm here or not"his Ahki whispered in his ear. As freed one arm to stroke Damian hair.

< . < . < • > . > . >| < . < • > . > |< . < . < • > . > . >

(Damian POV)

Present

Were did Ahki go? He couldn't have left that fast. He was here just a moment ago. It was no use the world was just a blur of color and indecipherable sound. But one thing was clear, his brother wasn't here.

A hand latched Damian's grounding him as his heart raced. 

 Someone was breathing soft timed breaths as if they were trying to get him to copy. 

Copying their breathing Damian slowly drifted off to sleep.