Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Michael Afton

Michael Afton sat with a smile as his father screamed in agony, trying to escape the fire.

Henry, his god father, died first and his spirit embraced the soul of his daughter and the duo approached him.

“We'll stay with you until you pass Mikey.” Charlotte Emily, Charlie, sat next to him as a bunch of children joined them.

The Missing children, Cassidy, Gabriel, Jeremy, Susie, and Fritz smiled softly in guilt.

Their anger kept bringing their killer back and making it worse, they suffered greatly and caused many others to suffer.

The Circus brigade, Elizabeth, Sally, Joshua,Scott, Peter, Noah and Angela who looked relieved.

Their were driven to insanity, almost completely forgetting they were ever human.

The toys, Jeremy, Bobby, Madison, Avery, Cooper and Samuel while blank didn't look as haunted.

They were the most lucid, but still couldn't recognize anyone.

Finally was Chris, his little brother, who hugged him.

He watched it all.

“I know the real reason it happened, I'm sorry it had to be your responsibility, big brother.” Tears fell from the undead teen.

Michael, who was only fourteen, lived for a long time and mostly alone. Fire licked at his legs, and the flesh burned from his bones. Though he wasn't separated, this confused everyone.

Cassidy whimpered, “I'm sorry, I'm sorry.”

Michael reached out and patted her head, this time their was no flesh on him so it almost startled him to see bone.

“He escaped…”

Everyone groaned, but Chris shook his head.

“No, Michael deserves a rest, if he doesn't…this shouldn't even be his responsibility!” Elizabeth hugged the older boy as the weight of what Cassidy had done hit them.

Years before they first interacted, Cassidy linked Michael's soul to William.

After realizing what she did, they agreed it was for the best. His guilt wouldn't let him pass on anyway.

“Gah!” Michael’s jaw clattered on the ground and smashed into pieces.

Michael knew what he had to do, he just didn't want to be alone. Though he knew, he only had William left.

“I'm so tired.”

“I'm sorry Mikey, I'm so sorry.” Noone left, all feeling guilty at gaining rest.

“All of you suffered enough, please move on. I'll be fine.” He couldn't smile, but his eyes glowed.

He could feel their guilt as each Spirit left one by one, only four remained. Uncle Henry, Charlie, Lizzy and C.C.

“I'm going to Gotham, that's the one place he hasn't hit. Say hi to mom for me okay?” Michael was sad, but he knew it needed to happen.

It was morning by the time the building was done burning, by the time a seared skeleton could no longer feel warmth, the morning when the last of his family left him.

It was morning when the boy made his way to Gotham City.

Tim Drake

The ten year old, Tim, watched as Batman fought Riddler’s goons and Robin stopped the bomb, taking great pictures.

He had found out that the original Robin had been his idol Richard Grayson of the flying Greysons, having his first real memory of him when he was little.

Well he was Nightwing now.

The second Robin was someone more down to Earth, someone who cared for people personally. His name was Jason Todd, his personal Robin Hood.

This new Robin was a bit too violent but he still did well, Damian Wayne, the one he found out to be the biological child of Batman.

Batman, Who was Gotham's very own Brucie Wayne, scolded Robin for being reckless while cleaning up his face.

Tim sat behind the wall as the duo left the area, and he soon left as well. A pang shot through his chest, sadness or jealousy either one, he wished his father was like that.

His father hit, screamed and belittled him at every chance . Never once had he received a hug from the man.

His mother tried in the beginning. She finally made herself detach from Tim, to not care to free herself from guilt.

A rustle caused the kid to flinch from his darkening thoughts, his eyes wandered to a bundle pressed against an alley wall.

“Hey, I'm just leaving. I didn't mean to startle you, hey are you okay?” He forcefully turned the stranger towards him and gasped.

Underneath the hood was a skull, not white but a dusted gray with black smudges and no bottom jaw.

Though Tim almost screamed, the slight shiver from the skeleton made him pause.

He could tell that Skeleman was scared, that Tim would be afraid of him. This made the kid think, that sounded lonely.

To be a skeleton, for everyone to be afraid or think the worst of him.

“Hey, it's okay, I just wasn't expecting a skeleton man..you are a man right?” The skeleton nodded softly as Tim outstretched his hand and ignored the flinch.

“I'm Tim, what's your name?” Thick black gloves gently took his hand, a deep static sound came from the Skeleton causing both to flinch and the skeleton to release his hand.

“How about we get you somewhere safe and dry and we'll find a way to communicate better.” There were no eyeballs, but there were pinpricks.

The pinpricks light up slightly as he nodded and slowly stood, this told Tim that the skeleton wasn't a full adult.

The ten year old filled the empty space with chatter, talking about heros and Vigilantes. Making sure the skeleton was listening, he finally turned to him.

“Do you have a favorite hero?” He watched the skeleton shrug and his eyes turn blue.

Tim hailed a taxi and quickly got them to Bristol, the taxi driver didn't question the skeleton but he didn't scream either so win for them.

“Welcome to Drake Manor! Population one! My parents leave a lot so it's just me.” Tim’s heart throbbed at that sentence.

The skeleton stared at him, his eyes somehow even darker blue.

“Anyway! Can you write? Or do Sign?” The skeleton shrugged and did a writing motion.

Tim got a piece of paper and wrote down a few questions.

What's your name
What's your favorite animal
What's your favorite color
Are you alone
Do you want to stay
What's your opinion on Batman
Can you keep a secret

The skeleton wrote his answers with a slight buzz and his eyes glowed yellow slightly, Tim assumed he was either happy or amused.

Tim mentally filed his findings about the skeleton for later, and startled to find the notebook in his hands and even more surprised to find his own questions.

Michael
Foxes or Hedgehogs
Red and grey
I think so
I don't want to be a bother
I kinda like Batman, he's got guts and just built differently.
Yes

How old are you
Why are you allowing strangers in your home
What's your favorite animal
What's your favorite color
Can you keep secrets
Can I write a contract for me to stay?
Tim knew he didn't need to write the answers but he did anyway while answering verbally.

“I'm ten! I'm alone, you're alone, if you wanted to hurt me you would have already. Also you're trying your best not to scare me! I like bunnies, red is my favorite color too! I have a lot of secrets, and what do you mean by a contract? I'm the man of the house right now so you can stay.” He made sure to write his responses well so they can be read.

He watched Michael write a long time, he was thankful that today was Friday and he had nothing for tomorrow.

The skeleton has written out an entire contract, mostly in the child's favor. Tim was a Drake, which means he had to be fair.

In order to stay, secrets must be kept on both sides, the house must be kept, and if Tim is at any point upset with Michael then Michael must leave without fuss.

Michael will listen to Tim and attempt to follow his lead, any disruption is met with eviction.

Any harm brought to Tim will result in eviction.

Tim shook his head instead of reading more, “Michael, there's nothing fair about this contract and if you signed one of these before, you've been scammed by a bad person.”

Tim tore the contract and started a new one, more fair and equal to Michael.

This Contract states that both parties are required to keep each other's secrets, and the others' well being into account.

Neither are entitled to be treated better than the other.

Tim will not hold Michael accountable for anything that happens to him.

Michael will be patient with Tim.

The only time eviction will be a necessary punishment, is anything harmful without a reason.

Michael must hide from any adults that enter the building, for security purposes.

Any changes or requests will result in a new contract or a rule book.

Michael read over the contract and slowly nodded in agreement, the duo signed the document and immediately started the rule book.

Resulting in Tim finally falling asleep in surprisingly cozy bone arms.

Rules
Telling where the other is going to avoid panicking and possibly wandering
Michael is allowed to play in the kitchen
No experimenting in the kitchen or Michael's room.
Anyone who knows Michael must learn sign language
Get Michael a mask or material to make one
Ask/honestly tell pls
If Michael senses something, no going out (?)
Puns and jokes about skeletons are allowed but no skeleton song.
Triggers will have another notebook
Don't touch any mysterious plushies without consent.

They slept with no further concern.

Chapter Text

Tim had awoke to a spotless house and a piping hot breakfast of bacon, eggs, and French toast.

The skeleton, now revealed Michael, was shifting nervously as Tim inspected everything.

“You didn't have to do all this, I would have been fine with noodles.” Tim waited as Michael wrote his response.

I wanted to, I didn't need much sleep so I did things. I missed cooking. Even with barely a face, Tim could see his new friend was nervous.

The ten year old sat at the table and bit into the French Toast, his eyes widened in shock.

They were delicious.

Michael was shakingly writing, WERE YOU ALLERGIC TO ANYTHING!? I'M SO SORRY! ARE YOU BREATHING!?

Tim giggled, “Im fine, Im actually allergic to strawberries. I just thought it was really good. You're a good cook.”

Michael slumped and looked relieved. Thanks, I used to cook for my siblings. Wanted to be a chef…but wasn't allowed.

Tim tilted his head, “Your parents?”

Michael shifted in nervousness, I lived during the 1800s, a lot of things werent allowed and looked down on.

Tim choked, “So…how are you with gay people? Trans people? Black people-”

Michael shook his head, I've always been fine with all that, and I'm Bi. My parents aren't aware but my mom would have supported me. My siblings knew as well.

Tim stared, “How old are you? You should be in your eighty's right?”

Died when I was fourteen, at the time I was pretending to be sixteen and that's how I died. My father got me killed and my siblings died before reaching age twelve.

Tim shivered, what kind of parents like this exist? His own neglected him and it sounded like Michael and his siblings were physically abused.

Tim found out that Michael was trying to kill his already dead father who was a child serial killer that comes back to the land of the living. The plushies were the mediums that each dead child uses to talk to him.

Michael found out that Tim was a little genius, finding out all heros identities and even personal numbers. He self taught himself sign language and planned to teach Michael. Nothing scared kids though.

Tim would be an effective supervillain.

The first day went fine so far, Tim showed him around his new home, asking and answering questions, then went to edit his pictures from that night before lunch.

Once Michael had a room, his multitude of Freddy's plushies appeared and so did the kids.

“William hasn't made a move yet, but he is in Gotham.” Cassidy hugged Michael, as he greeted everyone.

Lizzy kissed his cheekbone
before giggling, “That Tim kid seems nice if not lonely. Are you gonna adopt him?”

“Maybe, after the language barrier is lifted.” Michael thought of what to fix for lunch as CC interrupted.

“I can probably give him the gift of talking to the dead, its painless but I think he'd be able to see all dad’s victims.” Everyone looked excited that Michael made a friend that wasn't afraid of him in some way.

“Not without consent…I don't want him involved more than necessary.” Michael didn't want to get him involved at all, but it had been years since he talked to someone about this.

Michael began moving stuff around in his new room and froze at what he found, a lone cleaned prim and proper suit in the closet.

He'd ask about it later, maybe he could find a use for it.

As the kids explored the house, Michael made his way to the kitchen with Henry close behind.

The kid was lacking in the food department but he knows how to make cheap noodles taste gourmet, grabbing two packs of noodles and boiling water for eggs and a broth.

“Michael? Are you sure you'll be okay here? I can probably talk the others into a pocket dimension.” Many of the parents decided that they were going to stay behind for their kids, many of them disliked Michael for many reasons.

The only reason his friends were tolerated is because they had been killed by William around the timeframe of everyone else…except Simon but he was the nicer boy out of everyone.

“No, I don't think I'd ever feel comfortable with them. Not after what happened.” It was after William disappeared, every last person involved started threatening him or stalking him.

That's when he decided to find his father…

Leading to his death.

“Besides, I think I imprinted on Tim. He's a good kid.” Michael finished preparing lunch and walked towards Tim’s room to knock.

The door opened to a tired looking Tim, “What's up Michael?”

The skeleton froze when he realized he forgot a notepad and pen, he covered his face in embarrassment as Tim stared confused.

He didn't see the kid look at his phone and smile, “I didn't realize how late it got, you didn't have to make lunch.”

Michael tilted his head and pointed trying to convey how proud of this dish he was, apparently it worked because Tim laughed.

“Alright, Alright! I'll judge your work.” He promptly left his room and Michael looked towards his Godfather.

“We'll be leaving Mikey, well check on you two tomorrow.” With a wave, there were only two occupants in the house left.

Tim was shocked as he ate the ramen, it was like eating from a restaurant.

Tim excitedly talked about his pictures and Michael commented when he could, even offering help with image manipulation (after explaining why he has such a skill.) and promised a lesson in more advanced hacking.

Michael quickly wrote out what he found in his new room and joked about becoming a butler for him.

Tim laughed as well, “You'd be my very own Alfred. Though I think undead Butler sounds really familiar, that one anime.”

YOU HEATHEN! BLACK BUTLER IS A MASTERPIECE AND SEBASTIAN IS A DEMON NOT JUST SOME UNDEAD!

Tim giggled, “Sorry sorry, but that would be a good cover for you to go outside. Once we figure out the mask situation and an identity, then you're all good.”

Hey Tim?

“Yes Michael?” The ten year old watched his new friend doodle nervously on the notepad.

As you know I speak with the dead and my family visited. My little brother wants to give you the ability to see and speak to ghosts. You'd be able to hear me speak but, I think you need to know absolutely everything involving my family and the consequences.

Tim had finished eating and read over Michael’s words, the older boy treated Tim with respect and hadn't lied so far. He was nervous and probably still expected to get kicked out.

“Is it bad?” There was a nod, “Is it hard for you to talk about?” Another nod, “How about we get comfortable while I look for a mask for you.”

Michael washed the dishes as the younger boy quickly ran to get his laptop.

The two sat across from each other as Michael began to write.

It all started with my family My mother, Clara, My father, William, My little sister, Elizabeth, my little brother Christopher and me.

My mom was the nicest woman in the world, she was kind to everyone. She stuck up for people who are wronged unjustly and called people out on their bullshit.

“She sounds amazing!” Tim looked in awe at the description of his mother, she would have adopted him if they met.

William was a stubborn old man, the stereotype definition of an overbearing father. He was mentally and emotionally abusive, and was the most charismatic person you'd ever meet. He can probably sell you your own organs.

Elizabeth is a daddy's girl through and through, she's a good kid but would sell you out no matter what you did. She falls victim to manipulation a lot, but can be just as conniving as her father.

Christopher is the baby of the family and spooked easily, like actually jumped ten feet in the air, he was a little smart but not with books or anything. He was technically emotionally smart. Manipulation didn't work on him…at all.

Me…I was the oldest child, the easiest to mold and despite me apparently being the smartest kid, I fell hard for manipulation.

Elizabeth and Chris tried to keep me from being manipulated, but there's only so much that could be done.

“Hey at least they tried right?” Tim tried to lighten the mood and the skeleton boy appreciated it.

Then things changed, Mom died…I found out that she was killed by William. Apparently she had found his scheme early on, but was killed before anything could happen.

It turned physical.

It started with little slaps here and there, but then sometimes I'd wake up in a pool of my own blood and my siblings dragging my body to the closet I told them to hide in.

Or waking up with him leaving my room, turns out he was injecting me with something.

Apparently William had been using Elizabeth and I for…experimenting with a substance only found in children. I never found out how he found it, only what it looked like. It's harmful to both living and dead. That our bodies had been used to it since we were little.

“What does it do?” Tim search his skeleton friend’s face, his eyes were extremely blue.

For the living, you technically won't remember anything but your body is on autopilot. I apparently bullied my little brother, he started crying a lot then. I also became twice as susceptible to manipulation than before. Elizabeth and I figured earlier that it wasn't really me.

Elizabeth technically got whiney and disobeyed a lot, she didn't remember it. That's how she died, father told her not to go near his machine, knowing full well what was happening to her and the machine killed her.

Chris had seen it and was severely traumatized…nobody believed him about the kill.

I did but I was afraid of what William was going to do to him if more people looked into it.

I…blanked out a lot after that. The bullying got worse and apparently my friends found out some stuff from my journals cause I wrote like a maniac when I remembered.

“That sounds horrible, is it still affecting you?” Tim looked sad as Michael nodded.

I found the old man’s notebook about the substance and how he wanted to test it on Chris, how Chris was going through his own experiment…

I finally told Chris what was going on, he figured it out after Liz died and didn't want to go through it.

I told him I'd take care of it…which led to his death.

William told me to stuff his head in Fred Bear's jaws, telling me it would be safe that he wouldn't be experimented on.

His frontal lobe got crushed and he was in a coma for three days.

I was left alone after that, my father left but our neighbors harassed me. They followed me and yelled at me.

Turned out my father had killed their kids and ran.

My Godsister was his first victim then many kids that frequent the restaurant.

I think my Godfather resented me for a long time, thinking I helped my dad. He didn't hurt me, but he didn't help me with the neighbors either.

It changed one night, he came back tried to hug me but I backed away from him.

He fell to the floor and apologized, I think I was too broken to do anything though.

“None of this is your fault! Even when you were manipulated! None of it! Your Godfather sounds like an ass too!” Tim looked furious, and Michael felt a little validated.

He tried harder to be there for me, even stopped the harassment from the neighbors.

My friends tried to be there for me, but their parents didn't want us near each other anymore. I wasn't bullied but I was avoided, one kid tried to bully me but I put him in the hospital.

Once I turned fourteen, I got a letter from my father.

About finding my sister and finishing what he started.

He assumed I was sixteen.

That led to my death…I pretended to be sixteen and worked in one of that bastard’s locations and got killed.

Turns out the substance does more than mess with how long you live, it keeps a spirit kicking.

“Like a ghost?” Tim stared in confusion, not noticing the papers starting to stack under his laptop.

Yes Like a ghost…

It sticks to whatever it touches, the spirits were all children so they produced it after death.

It makes them blindly angry and unrecognize faces of people…well the first group. The Missing children.

Tim had paused in his reading to search up this phenomenon, and there were little articles about it other things classified.

The Circus Bunch were less conscious and more subconscious, they wanted to leave at all costs. The AI was too strong and they were trapped.

The animatronic that my sister was trapped in lured me into the scooping room and it only hurt for a minute. My insides became my outsides….I still have my intestines in a freezer I buried.

The entire group made themselves into something….and used my body to escape. I'm not going into detail about that.

Elizabeth became more conscious and realized what happened, she shared a bit of her substance with me so I can live.

Tim looked sad, but not frightened. Michael assumed it was because he was a Gothamite.

Once they left, I managed to get back to my Godfather. At first he freaked out but then he helped me.

Then he told me that my father was dead and how he died.

Now he's in a forever loop of life and death, now because he basically has other people filling in his time in Hell.

“So what's the substance called?” Tim spoke after finishing the reading, he honestly didn't know how to feel about all this.

Remnant

========

Michael watched Tim as he looked over the Web, he hadn't noticed how late it got and decided to make dinner.

He decided to make a philly cheese steak sandwich. There were frozen beef strips which he cooked first with onions and peppers and made bread from scratch.

Once done, he served it with some milk while keeping a close eye on Tim.

The mini ten year old hadn't said anything since his story, but he seemed upset.

“Michael?” Tim called out, his eyes serious.

The skeleton looked at the kid as he sighed, “I…I want to think more on the spirit thing. Though I think we should still speak through sign language for now. Tomorrow is when we start.”

Michael nodded, and turned but was quickly stopped again.

“Michael? You're a good big brother.” Michael trembled and shakingly walked back towards the sink.

A crying child smiled as his big brother made friends with the living.

Chapter Text

Tim had started doing things differently and like he suspected, nobody noticed.

So he assumed.

Damian Wayne liked to think he was above his father's nosy behavior, but he was wrong.

He waited at the car pickup with his “brother” Duke as usual, that's when he noticed a lean figure in a white bear mask.

He was going to confront the figure when the tiniest student ran up to him into a hug.

Timothy Drake, considered a genius that even Lex Luthor would have sought out.

He hugged the strange man, babbling to him about his day with an excited grin. The boy was normally shy and polite to people, so it was a bit jarring to see him act his age.

The youngest Wayne never paid much attention to the Drake kid outside of a small amount of respect, but this was the first time he seemed relaxed.

Timothy always seemed to try and melt into the background, less of the attention went on him. If you asked anyone in the school about him, they'd say he knew it all and that they left him alone because he was only ten and might have blackmail.

The unknown person wasn't tall by any means, he wore a tuxedo and black leather gloves and the bear mask was rather unsettling. Though what surprised him was the fact that the person signed instead of spoke.

‘What would you like for dinner squirt? I also made some lemonade, oh! I also took the liberty of airing out the Manor.’ Damian stared at the man but his gaze wondered to Timothy.

The younger child looked absolutely delighted and quickly signed back, ‘Im glad you had something to do! Did you play the game when you were done? I know for a fact you finished within two hours.’

The man seemed to loom, Damian stiffen at the pure uncomfortable feeling he was getting from this person as they lifted their hands to sign, ‘Treeko is my favorite starter but I vibe with taillow. Got anymore Pokemon?”

Damian didn't know what to expect from the the ominous man, but it wasn't that. He watched as the duo left the school, with Timothy chatting animatedly and the stranger nodding animatedly.

“Dames?” Ah Duke wanted his attention, the older boy looked concerned obviously he had witnessed the oddity. Neither said anything as they quietly waited for Pennyworth.

Once safely in the car, Duke turned to Damian with shock written on his face.

“Was I hallucinating? You also saw some guy in a bear mask just walk off with a toddler? Should we call someone?” Duke was new to the scene, so he was understandably upset.

“Master Duke, please calm yourself and fasten your seatbelt. Whatever is ailing your mind can be settled once we return home.” Neither child argued with the butler and followed instructions.

“Not to worry Thomas, we will investigate after homework is done. I believe if we also bring this up to father, he would also get involved. While the situation is unknown, we can't make assumptions.” Duke stared at the younger boy in shock.

“Have you been practicing that?”

“Tch, I'm surrounded by imbeciles…not you Pennyworth, you are a guiding light.” Duke could hear the smirk in the older man’s voice.

“Of Course Master Damian, your father will be bringing the Justice League home so you two will behave yourselves.” There was a warning that made Duke huff.

“Alfred, we're not Dick and Jason, we won't cause physical harm to our guests. Emotional maybe, mental oh definitely.” It was always the older siblings fault when certain rules come into play.

Duke chuckled, well it wouldn't hurt to check on the kid.
========

“Hey Michael?”

The masked boy turned to him, a tilt in his head being conveying his curiosity. They were being driven by a taxi from the store, fresh ingredients for pasta and garlic bread and salad in boney arms.

“I'll ask when we get home.” Tim hadn't really thought about how Michael would survive the day until Summer. The older boy obviously can't keep playing video games to pass the time.

Once home, Michael began to prepare dinner after removing his mask when Tim finally asked, “Michael, outside of cooking, do you have any hobbies?”

Michael signed, Nothing I can experience anymore. I was quite athletic…though I used to play instruments and occasionally read. Why?

“It's just, you're going to be here alone and a lot. I know you're liking the video games, but I would assume you would like something more casual.” Tim stared at the older boy, “What kind of instruments do you play?”

I liked piano and violin more, but I can play drums, guitar, ukulele, flute, clarinets and trumpets. Before I died, I was learning the xylophone. Michael went back to chopping vegetables as Tim thought.

He had a piano upstairs and a violin, maybe he could get the older boy something else to learn, “I have two of those things, how about learning something else? Like cello?”

Michael stared at him and nodded, his eyes brightened to a brighter yellow.

The weekend helped them create a small bond, learning about each other and (especially to Michael) about themselves. They can coexist peacefully, but Michael lived long enough that trust didn't matter much and Tim is a Gothamite that hangs out in Crime Alley.

Tim hummed as he did his homework, “Hey Michael? I'm going out tonight, you don't have to wait up.”

You said you follow Batman around and take pictures right? What do you do with the pictures? You don't seem like the type to have a creepy shrine somewhere.

“Oh! Nothing! I just keep them, why do you ask? Do you wanna see?” Tim looked so excited so Michael nodded. The younger kid ran upstairs then returned holding a lock box.

I was just curious, you seem like a blog kid to me. But I guess you could be tracked that way…if you do it wrong anyway.

Tim thought for a minute, “I thought about it before, but I'm content with just photos. Do you want to come with me?”

Michael shook his head and prepared garlic bread, it sounded dangerous but who was Michael to stop someone from doing anything dangerous.

The duo viewed pictures until dinner was done, once finished, Tim quickly left the house. Michael made some cookies and cleaned up after himself.

A sound caused him to freeze. There was an adult living presence in the Manor, he decided to write a short note and hide. Best see what happens now.
========

Bruce did a lot for his kids, he isn't a perfect father but he tries his best to be a good one. So when his two youngest approached him in concern, he listened.

“The Drakes seem to have hired help with Timothy, but they are…odd. They seem to only use sign language, and they wore a bear mask. Though Timothy seems to be excited to see them.” Damian reported as though alerting him to a crime.

“Not just odd, I'm saying rogue level weird, like Harley and Ivy having a date in Metropolis weird! Like Bane and Lex Luthor talking in broad daylight!” Duke seemed a bit weirded out, but concerned.

“I suppose I can look into them, I'll have to go into the house tonight before patrol. But Damian, you'll be with Jason while I investigate this.” Bruce avoided laughing at Damian’s offended face, ruffled his hair and watched the duo relax.

Once giving the reins to Jason and bidding Duke goodnight, Bruce left to see the neighbors.

There was little to no security on the home, that was a red flag for him. Did the Drakes not care for their son's safety?

In his entrance, he felt a chill go down his spine. The place looked haunted, empty, but as he walked closer towards the kitchen it warmed up. Faint smells of garlic and chocolate filled the air, the Manor soon became a home as he approached.

On the table was a covered plate of cookies, and a note.

“Timothy, if you awake before my return then help yourself to a cookie. I realized we were low on flour and you will not succumb to using frozen waffles so I am getting some flour. Have a good rest”, Michael.

Bruce slipped a cookie and avoided moaning loudly, whoever this Michael is, is giving Alfred a run for his money in terms of cookies. Part of him wanted to leave well enough alone but decided to continue on.

He searched everywhere and found nothing on the Butler and child, though he did find something concerning Jack Drake. He didn't bother with the two occupants rooms, not wanting to get caught, he immediately looked into the home computer and found something interesting.

Timothy had no caretakers since he was six, but something changed for Michael to be hired.

He knew Jack and Janet were wanderers, but to neglect their son?

Bruce left everything as is, and immediately left Drake Manor to catch up to Jason and Damian. It was a school night after all.
++++++++

“Michael? Are you okay?” The skeleton shook as he watched the Dark Knight walk through the house, he really should leave to get some flour but he was nearly discovered.

Tired eyes searched for him, Henry had come in the knick of time to hide the undead boy.

“Mikey? He's gone, Lizzy and Gabriel are keeping and eye on Tim, and everyone is fine.” CC had appeared to talk him down from his panic.

Michael shakingly walked towards the drawer with the rules, and in shaking phalanges, he wrote, “Give Michael a few hours notice when people visit.”

He'll inform Timmy about Batman coming into his home later, now time to plan breakfast.

Chapter Text

“BATMAN WAS INVESTIGATING IN MY HOME!!?” Tim stared at the older boy in shock.

He had returned last night to a shaken skeleton and was quickly rushed to bed with a plate of cookies, utterly confused and slightly frightened.

When he awoke and got ready for school, he noticed the rule book had been written in and when he questioned his friend, he was told of the previous night’s events.

Michael had prepared Miso Soup and fresh bread for breakfast, which had been a comfort food of sorts for him and his siblings when they were alive. Tim seem to calmed down as he ate, he didn't seem to mind tofu much but simply seemed confused by it.

“I might have had a small panic attack, but I'm fine now.” Just gonna be coping by extensively cleaning the house…and probably baking.

Tim stared at Michael and frowned, “Batman wouldn't hurt you, he's a hero.”

“No, he's a vigilante which is technically a light grey area for the line of Hero and Villain. Extremely morally Grey.” Michael sat down with his skull in his hands.

“What do you mean?” Tim looked startled at the skeleman, who's eyes started turning blue.

There are levels to good and bad to everyone and everything, like spirits, heroes and humans in general.

“Wait, there are levels of spirits?” Tim had put his dish in the sink and proceeded to gather his things to leave.

Yes, I'll write is down and explain in upon your return. Michael ruffled his hair and his eyes lit up as the living child tried to fix this hair, and accepting his lunch.

It was a simple bento box, something Elizabeth was interested in that Michael learned to make in different ways. A ham and cheese sandwich, pretzels, cheese cubes, grapes and cucumber slices, and a wrapped cookie from that night.

“This looks so good!” Michael feels pride at the excitement in Tim’s voice, the boy was dangerously thin when they met but he was filling out nicely.

After seeing Tim off to school Michael quickly cleaned the house and observed the instruments that were there, a piano, a violin and many instruments for lips.

He tuned everything and booted up Pokemon Arceus once he was done, he adored his round leaf bird that he named Helium, and even slipped some stuffies and blankets into the cart of personal things Tim got him. Once he finished the first boss mon, he closed the game to look into dinner options.

A sharp sound of thunder startled the skeleton and quickly grabbed Tim a raincoat and boots for the trek back home, if he wanted to splash. Michael was hit with a sudden nostalgia.

“Mikey? Remember you used to fix us stew and bread when the weather got bad? I know we can't eat it, but I miss the smell.” CC had appeared next to Michael, looking excited.

He did have a few hours before having to pick up Tim, maybe he would appreciate a pillow fort or nest in the living room?
========

Tim stared at his book, he was supposed to do a book report but he was given a separate book from everyone else. Miss Drew was always babying him, making him read baby books or even different material from his classmates.

He sighed as his classmates began conversing about their books with each other, Miss Drew left the room to make a call to the Principal.

“Why is your book different?” Tim jumped in shock as he noticed Damian Wayne looming over him.

Before Tim could answer, his neighbor Abigail spoke, “Miss Drew doesn't want Timmy reading our material despite him being the smartest kid here. Something about keeping him tethered to his age group cause he's missing so much.”

Damian scowled, “That's dumb.”

“That's Miss Drew for you.” The conversation slowed to a lull as thunder rolled over the school, silencing any conversation.

Damian was still looming over him by the time Miss Drew returned and the bell rang. Tim didn't try to run but the hairs at the back of his neck rose, like Damian was observing him and readying to strike.

It was a bit odd to be escorted to the Cafeteria by Wayne, everyone had turned to look at the odd looking duo. Damian had a reputation of being stubborn and standoffish, but Tim knew he was kind and careful. Though this didn't help with him trying to lay low until he graduated, this ruined it.

“Tell me Timothy, Mr. Jones informed the class that you held the highest grade in chemistry. Did your parents get you a tutor?” Was he…fishing for information?

“No, just a lot of self studying and asking questions to the right people.” That feels like a safe answer.

Damian didn't need to know that he pestered Rogues to help with his homework, nor that Scarecrow is a pretty good teacher that he occasionally still visits once a month.

The older boy hummed and quickly ushered him to a table with his brother, Duke Thomas-Wayne, who is also Signal, though he was just the foster brother…for now. There are ongoing bets about his adoption that Tim pivied to once and a while.

Duke smiled and Tim immediately felt on guard.

He had seen Robin and Signal team up before and he was immediately suspicious.

“Hey Tim, I heard a few people go to you for accurate information or something. What's your asking price?” Tim blinked and fought the excitement that hummed in his chest.

“Depends, fights, crushes, secrets or about yourself. Since you're Waynes the price will vary to what you want but it's gonna be high because supply and demand.” Damian looked shocked at the information as Duke looked victorious.

“How much for the most invasive thing you have?” Tim’s eyes widen and narrowed.

“10,000 up front and a swear to not to go after me and my recipients.” Duke looked shocked and Damian slowly looked at him.

“Timothy…”

“Damian…” Tim isn't looking at either of them but knows the duo is shocked that there's something like that.

“Are we decent?” Tim nodded to the older two boys' relief, “I'll wire you the money now.”

“Wait what!?” Duke looked shocked as Tim gave him his information to his hidden assets.

“I am curious about what was done that Timothy looked close to blushing if it wasn't nudity.” Once the money hit Tim pulled up a picture on his phone.

“Multiple people including the cheerleading squad, chess club, debate club and many sports club in many schools have a calendar for you two. I get paid to take pictures of you at different points of the school day or trips and send it to my contact who makes the calendar. With each sale I get a ten percent cut of the proceeds. No editing needed, but multiple schools are involved now.” Damian and Duke slowly looked at each other then to Tim.

“Do you have any recent pictures?” Duke looked nervous as Tim nodded

“I can bring them in three days. I mostly do it the old fashioned was and digitally is an extra fee.”

========

“Father, we have been violated by a toddler, and never noticed.” Damian sighed during dinner as Grayson and Todd sat down to eat.

Everyone froze and slowly turned towards the youngest, then it got loud.

Duke flinched at the noise as Damian prepared his words, he watched Father grasp the boys hand in a comforting manner. The room gradually got quieter as they noticed Alfred’s glare.

“It seems multiple schools have calendars for Thomas and I, nothing too bad, just a bunch of unexpected pictures of us being natural. They are really well done.” He had found the source of the people responsible and found out they made a secret website that ran more like a newsletter than for merch or anything.

“Just calendars?” Father looked at him incredulously as Damian pulled up the website.

“Timothy refused to take any fresh pictures if it was more than seasonal calendars. He is getting paid a hefty sum as well.” Father looked concerned as he looked through the previews.

“Wait, Timothy? Isn't he the rich kid you asked Bruce to investigate?” Jason narrowed his eyes, “He's the violating toddler? He's rich! Why is he doing things for money!?”

“So apparently it isn't a secret that the Drakes withhold basic necessities as punishment for what they think is “Bad”.” Duke looked sick at the thought and suddenly nobody was hungry.

“Wait, like what? Everyone thinks he's the best thing since sliced bread.” Stephanie pointed out with dread, she never talked to the kid but he always waved to her or slipped her goodies that he'd take from the dessert table.

“According to a few classmates, he got punished for getting a 93 on a test before. Remember Remus? The kid that kept hitting on Cass? He helped Tim through a panic attack and his parents claimed he was causing a scene.” Bruce grunted, he had heard gossip of the same thing.

He hates that he never looked into it, “I figured, but the Drakes cover their tracks well. If I hadn't gone to that house I wouldn't have found out that Jack Drake is part of the Court. Doesn't seem like Janet and Tim knows, his computer was filled with alibis and coincidences for him to explain things away.”

Dick looked stricken, the entire family knew about the Court’s obsession with the eldest sibling and warned to lay low when they're out. To think they had the identity of one.

Damian looked slightly intrigued, “This also means that Timothy will be available for adoption if we get rid of his parents, I've been looking into them. They seem to be never home and nobody to watch their son until recently. I cannot find anything on the new caretaker, but they seem to be getting a lovely salary.”

Bruce turned to his son in shock, “Wait What?”

Duke chuckled, “I mean, black hair and blue eyes, considered a genius, sneaky enough to build a business in the school, and to catch two skilled vigilantes off guard and have enough blackmail to make Batman look mediocre.”

Jason and Stephanie burst out in laughter as Dick screamed, “Bruce! I swear!”

Cass nodded as Bruce facepalmed, “Boys, we're not condemning people for their children-”

========

“ACHOO!”

Michael put a heated towel over the younger boys head to dry him off, Tim had refused his boots and coat to “maturely” only walk with an umbrella. Unfortunately, the umbrella flew away and the kid got soaked.

Michael chuckled as snuggled into the towel, the younger boy seemed to be entranced by the pillow fort and the smell of stew.

“I never slept in a pillow fort before, not even made one. This is beautiful, is that a folder?” There was a Manila envelope sitting in the fort along with flashlights and candles, which came in handy.

The lights cut as soon as Michael returned with a crock pot of stew and a basket of bread on his skull, thankfully a few candles were already lit to guide him through the house.

There's a hot bath upstairs, I didn't go into your room for clothes or anything. I could tell that this was a power outage type storm, they were always my favorite.

“Why? There's nothing to do, I live on electronics you dinosaur.” The static sound that came from Michael brought a smile to his own face, he found out it was his laugh the few times he managed it.

Well for one, you can read the file in the spirits I made you. Two, I admit my mother got me into story telling and it's how I got everyone through storms.

Tim perked up and ran towards the stairs, Michael grabbed a composition book that he bought himself with his first paycheck and began to sketch. Sue him for the childish need to be someone's hero again, drawing hero suit designs as he waited for Tim to rejoin him.

Once returned, Tim dug into the stew and bread and chatted away at heroes when he noticed Michael's drawing.

“Did you draw this?” The drawing was pretty basic compared to normal, it was technically an oversized coat and hoodie combo. His foxy mask returned with the ears containing a type of tech that could hear long distances and have both internal and external recordings.

The oversized coat looked like a fluffy tail but mostly extra storage for tools and probably nonperishables. His boots were similar to moon boots with extra bounce and possibly reverb.

His gloves were fingerless with pads so he could find things through vibration, that go through his goggles.

I can probably do the technical stuff, I should probably start training for when the old man inevitably show up.

He passed Tim the folder and on the inside were notes and drawings, starting with dark and leading to light.

The picture of horns and broken looking leather wings were the first image;

Demons take from whatever they need to on earth, but you can almost sense when one is around. Which is why they like Gotham so much, many tells are hidden. Smell of rot,feeling of foreboding, feeling of suffocating. A subtle tell is their shadows (reveals demon form) and black veins in their eyes.

The next picture is of spiralled eyes sharp claws and teeth, leaking a black fluid;

Wraiths are driven by anger and instinct, while it's rare for them to be on earth it isn't impossible. They physically can not disguise themselves unless they manage to control that rage, then they mostly look like children or elderly passing as dementia or troubled children. Almost impossible to see, but their eyes hold insanity.

The next image sent a shiver down Tim’s spine, a gaunt face and baggy eyes;

Lost Souls wander the world in search of anything they are missing from life, from Loved ones to Justice, they will never stop until forcefully put to rest or they find what they're looking for. You cant really see them well, but sometimes you notice a person at a distance that disappears when you blink. That was them when they were alive.

There was no image but a small description for another role;

Reapers are the dead’s Shepard, occasionally they bring peace to the unrested spirit and guide them to a better life. They usually wander around as kind people or animals. They are at peace and usually want to help overs before letting themselves be free.

The next one did have and image, they look like a faded person;

Souls are Wraiths that calmed down or cured from their anger and insanity, mostly are children unless certain things happened. They can't move on, they continue on in regret and residual anger, they can only show themselves occasionally.

The image after that looked like Souls but with black feathered wings;

Fallen Angels should have come after Reapers but I met too many good ones to class them as pure neutral, they are people who made difficult choices that would knock them from heaven. My Godfather is a fallen Angel for helping kill my dad.

There was a standard Angel on the page;

You know about angels, I don't really want to draw an accurate angel.

The last pages was a picture of an Angel that seems like more;

This is a Guardian, They are like Fallen Angels and Reapers but tend to be hunters. They usually go after major threats, they are usually alive with supernatural powers. No I am not any of these, I'm…an unknown variable.

Tim finished reading and stared at Michael, who was pointingly reteaching himself how to fight. The older boy seemed to be in denial, Tim could tell that he didn't believe he was standing in his world.

Reapers seem cool after all.

Chapter Text

The storm flashed as a young boy ran through Crime Alley, he was trying to get a bit of money for food so as to not worry his mom. There's nothing he regrets more than this, the storm he could brave, the drunks he can avoid…but the worse rotting and burning smell and the sound of heavy foot falls is new territory.

The boy whimpered as he heard the whispers of surprises and joy filled the alleyway.

If he can just get to Red Hood’s territory, then everything would be okay. He could get food for his mom and little brother, and the ever growing dread could disappear.

Something large slammed the small thin boy into a wall, a painful crack made him scream in pain.

You are not my usual target audience, but I will make a…special exception for you. Dear child, rejoice, you will be aiding in my experiments

A flash caught the boy’s attention, a knife raised above an unholy creature that looked like his sweet baby brother’s bunny.

At least his mom wouldn't worry about feeding him anymore, she should be fine. That was the last thought the boy had before everything stopped. His heart, his thoughts, and his being.

It didn't remain that way, soon he woke up. Confused and angry, he woke up.
========

Cassidy was watching everyone play in puddles and mud, it had been calm since Michael arrived in Gotham. CC and Charlie joined her as Mr. Henry went to talk to Mrs. Afton, who was the actual first victim.

“Something is happening.” CC finally spoke as his eyes shone gold, he had been tuned in to Gotham since Michael met Tim.

“Keep watching.” Cassidy commanded, gearing up to examine.

Tim flashed in her mind again, he was a pleasant surprise. He was genuinely kind despite being a rich kid, he reminded the Soul of a fun mix of CC and Elizabeth.

Calculated and quiet, mixed with Feral and manipulative.

“He struck, there's a dead kid trapped, should we tell Mikey?” CC’s face fell in grief and sympathy.

“No, any evidence will be washed away in the storm.” Charlie interrupted but she was geared up as well. While she wasn't as physically strong as Cassidy, she could hold her own in a fight…more so than CC.

“So we investigate?” Cassidy grinned as Charlie nodded.

CC got Mr. Henry's attention and nodded solemnly, they were going to investigate this themselves.

Gotham was a place that CC barely remembered but grimly couldn't forget, how much everything changed since he was last here but somehow familiar.

It was somehow darker and more suffocating than Freddy's, but it felt comforting (and made him feel guilty) knowing there was somewhere worse than their purgatory.

The air chilled, causing the trio to freeze, a familiar anger crawled over their skin. Another victim.

Charlie led the way to an abandoned restaurant, it was too old to tell if it was a Freddy's. In the far corner shook a vaguely familiar animatronic, it looked like a modern version of Golden Fredbear.

It rattled and a raspy voice called out, ”Why? Why? Why did the bunny kill me? I have to take care of my family!”

”Hey dude? Can you look this way?” The robo body flinched and wheeled around.

”Who the fuck are you!? They looked enraged, they stumbled upward but fell back down. Cassidy forced the kid down as Charlie eased his anger.

”Sorry about this, it's not nice to be the bunny’s victim is it. Don't let your rage consume you, we made that mistake before. That's why he's still up and running. That's Cassidy, the bunny is afraid of her. This is Charlie, she's the one calming you down. I'm CC, I'm the team beauty.”

Charlie huffed as Cassidy groaned, the kid gave a soft laugh.

”I'm Joshua, why am I here?” CC sat down as Cassidy let the older boy up.

”The bunny was a mean scientist trying to cheat death, he uses kids to do it. It started with me and my siblings, but the deaths started with my mom. I think that's how he found out that kids were better for his experiments.”

”Wait, why your family?”

CC froze, last time he admitted his relation to William he was almost Exorcised by Cassidy. It was hard being in the same animatronic, her hatred was just as suffocating as her restless vengeful soul.

Cassidy flinched at the reminder, ”Give him a minute, a lot of victims attacked him for it…me included. It's not his or his siblings fault.

The kid stared as CC took a breath, He's our dad…

Joshua watched as the kid braced himself, like the older kid would hurt him. So he nodded, ”My condolences, If that man was a good father, than I'd be surprised.”

The kid looked surprised and a bit suspicious, I'm thankful but-”

”In Gotham, we don't blame the children for their parents’ mistakes. After all, many kids have villain parents or grandparents.” The kid interrupted with a nod, he realized that since talking to this kid he was calming down naturally.

The girl, Cassidy, looked guilty and shrunk into herself and the other girl Charlie patted her shoulder.

”Anyway, My big brother can help you pass on if you want, do you have any desires you want done?” The animatronic bobbed his head.

“That my family is taken care of, I was trying to get help from Red Hood. He protects the kids of Crime Alley.” Joshua glitched a bit, it seems his anger was winning out at the mention of his family.

”We'll do what we can.” Cassidy nodded to Charlie and the two joined CC.

Joshua began to lose himself, feeling upset at never seeing his family again, raging out at tables and walls. Forgetting he was never alone, not seeing his audience.
========

CC decided to be the one to see his big brother while the girls, who were more assertive, talked to everyone else. In the beginning, CC hated Michael for his death, sending him nightmares and occasionally having enough remnant to appear before him.

Then he died, CC hated that his brother died, and hated himself for hating his brother.

The younger boy knew it was William’s doing that he died, and he forgot. He tried hard to make up for what he had been doing to his brother but everything ran deep, it took Michael burning to death for clarity to hit everyone.

CC smiled at the sight before him, Tim was outcold against his brother and was holding papers in a fist. Michael himself looked at him in his arrival and nodded.

Hey CC, what's wrong?

“He has a victim, They're fresh, it's best if you go later. Though there is a small problem, his family is his anchor.” He sat near Tim, while the kid couldn't feel CC, he did feel the air get cooler.

I understand, I'll help him move on…I already have an idea.

CC smiled, “Henry said he'll start training you soon, if his hunch is correct then Tim won't need to be cursed to understand you!”

Michael stared at his brother curiously but was waved off, thunder shook the house and CC flinched.

Phalanges touched his hair and looking up CC could see the concern in his brother, “Hey Mikey? Can you tell me a story?”

Years ago, a tree was planted by two brothers. A fox and a baby bear-
========

The Alley way was empty, fresh blood being washed away in pouring rain caught his attention.

The Red Hood sensed something foul, and it didn't belong in Gotham.

Chapter Text

Michael watched in humor as Tim prepared the surprise, it had been a few months since helping the little family after CC’s warning and Tim decided to work on their Halloween costumes.

Michael let slip that he missed dressing up for Halloween and walking with his siblings house to house, now Tim is working on their costumes. It was heartwarming that the child would do this for something like him, especially with how bright his soul is despite everything.

“Michael! It's ready!” Michael entered the ballroom and froze, it was his drawing.

Tim recreated his costume into something real, Tim, I…This is beautiful. Thank you.

“You're welcome! Now look at my costume!” Nearby stood another costume, it looked similar to Robin but a mix of his own. Instead of a trenchcoat, it was a cloak, instead of the bright colors it was black and dark red, goggles were like a mask but still high tech, and most technical add-ons.

“I could definitely be your partner! I can help with the living side of things!” Tim beamed as Michael looked at the costumes in awe, the kid really was amazing.

“Anyway this is gonna be the suit I wear to trick or treat, I have something generic for school tomorrow! I'm gonna be a ninja!” Tim beamed, being a ninja or spy really is up his alley.

You be careful now, Halloween is always hectic…beware the clowns…and bunnies

Tim nodded solemnly, if they were in public, people would think Michael was just a humoring and ecstatic kid. Though the clown was a bit of a joke, he was very serious about the bunny.

Tim…are you going out again tonight? Michael had been nervous about that, with William starting up there's a chance he'll go after Timmy.

“Yea! I heard Two face was out and about!” Tim beamed but it died down at Michael's stance.

How about I come with you, I need to find the souls and don't want you added to it Michael watched Tim think it over.

“You mean your dad right? Did he show up?” Michael nodded but didn't clarify, Tim had a feeling that it wasn't good and Michael was scared.

“Cool, we can go together! I can show you all the good hiding spots!” Neither noticed the invisible vectors watching the duo, a close trio was watching their best friend.

========

”Well Well, You want to help Michael? Why not just leave the demon to his demons?”

There was shuffling in the background, everything was red, different shades but red all over. A boy in a broken chica mask, the shyest, approached slowly, “No, Michael has been killed and resurrected multiple times, each time he managed to wake up, he was sent after his old man! He has no training but is heading straight for danger!”

“Simon, calm down”, a larger boy in a broken Bonnie mask approached with a hand on his shoulder, “OMC please, to save Mikey.”

The final boy, with a broken Freddy mask, stayed where he was and made sure his friends were in grabbing distance.

The large crocodile stared the trio down, they hated when a spirit couldn't pass on. Michael was a rare case, a soul so deep in grief and guilt that he couldn't be placed into a known category.

Simon, someone who shone brightly, was their little group’s heart. He died by a creature created by insanity and desperation, forced to watch his granddaughter barely escape his fate.

Fredrick, someone who remained calm during duress and the groups level head, killed by William in anger. Protecting his great-nephew along with Henry Emily, passing on as the building burned.

Jeremy was the brains of the group, someone who figured that something was wrong before Michael even asked for help. Dying to the mangled foxy and trying to save Michael from the toys.

Michael, while smart and the brains of their group, was too emotionally exhausted and it could be fatal if anything were to happen. The group rounded him perfectly, but they risked being stuck in the endless loop with him.

OMC nodded slowly, “Very well, Mr. Emily and Cassidy will train you, you will return as vectors. I will let CC decide your appearance.”

Then something grabbed Simon around his ankles and dragged him towards the red water, Jeremy and Fredrick quickly grabbed his arms and got dragged down as well.

Old Man Consequence chuckled as the bubbles stopped, ”Never Gets Old!”

Cassidy appeared next to the old gator, “You're psychotic, why are you like this?”

A large claw patted the girl’s head, ”Genetics probably, now what are you planning to do about Him?”

The girl groaned.
========

Gotham was considered the most violent ridden, crime addicted city in America, but to many it was Home Sweet Home.

Wearing his “vigilante” costume, Michael had separated from Tim, who was also wearing his costume, as he quickly followed behind his heroes. The alleyway was filled with resentment and the bitter aftertaste of remnant codded his senses.

Then he found the location, an in the wall family restaurant that William bought before his death. Once inside he noticed the fresh soul in front of him, though he was confused at the animatronic’s defeat.

A little boy was basically screaming at someone other then him, The Red Hood.

Hood stood there in shock, “Kid, I don't know how to help you! Calm down!”

“Calm down!? Calm Down!? I don't know how!” The kid’s anguish caused the animatronic to twitch.

”You can start by looking at me.” The duo whirled towards him with Hood pointing the gun at him.

“Who the fuck are you!?” Hood took a threatening step towards him, but the kid only stared.

Red Hood seemed to be give off a familiar feeling of Wraith, but to be a resurrected Wraith? He'll have to investigate this with his family.

”Have you been waiting long little soul?” Michael approached despite the gun cocking, and kneeled before the boy. The remnant slowly filled Michael as the kid sighed in relief.

“I just wanted to help my ma.” The kid began to cry, “Then the Bunny Man said I should feel blessed to help him with his research. You're CCs big brother ain't you? The one who can stop Bunny Man?”

”Yes, I am, I apologize for your death.

“Shut up, just like I told CC, you ain't gonna be blamed for what the trash bunny does. So ya gonna drag me ta hell or sumthin?”

Michael gave a humored but haunted chuckle, ”You have a choice, do you wish to join his other victims or do you wish to go straight to heaven. Either way you can pass between the two safely.”

The gun went off near Michael's head, but the boy didn't flinch as it even cocked again, “What are you talking about!?”

With a tired sigh that earned a chuckle from the child, Michael turned to Red Hood, ”He has not been dead long enough or formed enough resentment to be stuck where the Bunny’s other victims are, He only persists due to the animatronic and his family. Whom I'm sure asked you to find him.”

Red Hood kept the gun trained on his head, “If you're lying-”

“Hood, he's telling the truth…can I go ta heaven? I wanna see Grandma and meet Abulita’s girlfriend.” The remnant was off the kid, making him look clean and calm.

Michael ignored Red Hood and stretched his hand to the boy, showing him the entrance to Heaven.

Michael had done this multiple times before, but the entrance to Heaven always left him amazed. Like a fog machine, cloud appeared before them, like pinkish yellowish cotton candy, the smell of fresh air tickles the senses.

Before them were gold looking bars that opened up on approach, usually sat someone who knew them or a long dead relative.

Michael's mother appeared twice to greet him along with a victim, she tried helplessly to get him to pass on but even she knew how great his guilt was..and she died first.

This time, two elderly ladies waited at the gates and smiled sadly at the boy.

“Joshua! Come meet Rosa! We have so much to talk to you about!” One of the ladies exclaimed with tears and outstretched her arms, which the boy didn't hesitate to jump into.

“GRANDMA!”

The entry to Heaven closed as the boy disappeared into his Grandmother's arms, “What the fuck?”

Michael forgot he was here, the skeleton turned to the…spirit?

He wasn't saturated in remnant, but he is coated in insanity though living. He didn't know what power brought this guy back, but he was going to be cautious.

“So, you like the grim reaper or something?” The gun wasn't pointed at him anymore but the hand holding it wasn't relaxed.

“No, but they are nice when you meet them. Enough of that, you don't seem to be a bunny victim, so no need to interfere with you. I should leave.” Michael moved passed the ex Hero when he was stopped again.

“What did you do!?” The gun shifted but didn't move from his side.

“I helped a soul pass on, I'm not a Reaper, but he isn't the first of this brand of victim. Just the first of this…century? Decade? I never had to keep up with dates before.” Red Hood stared for a long time.

“How old are you?” What an odd question.

”I died around fourteen years old about eighty years ago” Michael finally left, knowing full well that he had to pick up Tim.
========

Tim smiled as he got good shots of Black Bat and Spoiler.

He traveled quickly and easily in his vigilante “disguise” being waved at by the corner girls and elderly, but extremely ignored by the drunks and mean gang members.

He should have done this ages ago! It would have made taking pictures so much easier than avoiding the people who wanted to rob him! Though he should really go meet Michael, climbing down quietly, the ten years old made his way through the shadows freezing at the sound of Spoilers' voice about.

“I don't see anything on the roof or below, are you sure you saw a flash?” She was either talking to Oracle, who was the original Batgirl, or Black Bat, who was selectively mute according to Mr. Wayne.

Silently, Tim continued but felt an itchy feeling that he was being watched.

Looking up, he met the blank faceless void of Black Bat staring down at him. He froze, silently hoping that she won't say anything or make any motions of back up.

She creeped down the wall to stand near him, “Sneaky little brother.”

“I'm not your little brother, your brother might be close to Parks though. Unless you mean Hood, I don't know where he went.” Tim rambled, quickly silencing himself before he revealed anyone.

“Clever little brother, knows who we are.” Despite how slowly she said it, Tim knew he's been had and he couldn't meet her eyes.

“I promise not to tell anyone, I haven't told anyone yet.” He mumbled, careful not to say anything out loud.

A gentle hand startled Tim into looking into her soulless gaze, “Clever little brother, not in trouble, like taking pictures?”

Tim nodded, then showed her the digital version of tonight's pictures, “I've been doing it since Hood was Robin, but known since Nightwing was still Robin.”

“Clever little brother threatened to tell on sad dad.” Black Bat tapped his nose and he felt shame but shrugged it away.

“He was hurting people, I had to do CPR on seven different people choking on their blood.” Tim didn't want to sound like a scared little kid to the second coolest Colony member.

The hand moved to his cheek, “Sad dad, scared Clever little brother. Clever little brother didn't know what to do. Scared what would happen to you.”

Tim felt exposed, “Can you read minds?”

Black Bat shook her head, “Clever little brother should go.”

Tim nodded, not questioning the older girl and quickly making his way to the meeting spot. Unaware of Black Bat watching him with a hidden smile.

Michael was already waiting at the edge of Crime Alley when Tim finally made it, “I had a weird night.”

”Guy in a red helmet threatened me, kinda understands me when I speak too. Not really scared but very concerning how he reeks of Remnant.” Michael signed as the duo made their way to an Uber.

“That was Red Hood, he's an anti-hero! He kills the bad guys and yea pretty sure he was the second Robin. My favorite!” Michael laughed in his staticky laugh as Tim gushed about Red Hood, keeping the comments about being called the Red Bucket to himself.

The Alley seeming more peaceful than before, Remnant being absorbed in small doses as they leave.
========

The manor was quiet as the Butler made his final rounds, stopping at the small presence above him.

“Lady Cassandra, it is well past your bed time. Did you have a nightmare?” Alfred spoke gently as the young woman landed in front of him.

“Check on New Little Brother and Friend please.” Dark but kind eyes looked at her grandfather figure as he bowed.

“Timothy Drake? As you wish my dear.” Cass hugged him before skipping towards her room, leaving a curious old man to his devices.

Chapter Text

Tim was thankful for the four day weekend, turned out that Scarecrow escaped and fear gassed the school for the rest of the week. In that time, Michael encountered Red Hood twice more and felt a bit better about him each time.

Michael's father didn't have anymore victims so far and Tim had more pictures of the Colony to gush over.

But that isn't the thing that got his excited, no he got an invitation to a kid exclusive party that the Waynes give out each year! Duke had given it to him the day before, saying hi as he said.

Tonight was the Annual Wayne Hallows Eve Gala, mostly for kids and adults to safely have fun and he wanted to join this year. With a sigh, Tim dialed the dreaded familiar number of his mother.

“Timothy, this better be important, we are in the middle of an important transaction.” The chilly tone of his mother rung through the receiver that cut his initial retort of not talking in almost a year.

“Mother, I know we don't celebrate the dreadful season of Halloween, but I received an invitation to The Wayne Hallows Eve Gala. Should I ignore it?” He ignored Michael’s stare as he waited for the answer.

“You do not ignore this Timothy! Making friends is important!” She sounded more cheerful this time, he cleared his throat.

“Also I took the liberty of hiring help for a few months, people were getting nosey, with this, it should clear you of whatever suspicions started up. Is that okay?” There was a long silence.

“Hm, I want to know who is whispering Timothy, but you've done well. Do not disappoint the family Timothy.”

“Yes Mother.” She hung up and Tim sighed in relief and slid to the ground.

Michael sat in front of his and with shaking phalanges, gently grabbed his face and wiped away the wetness under his eyes. Tim was crying, “She didn't notice we haven't spoken in almost a year, you've been here for two months and she isn't even concerned.”

Michael hugged him and tapped in Morse code, which was surprisingly hard to learn, You deserve better

Tim just broke down in his skeleton friend’s arms, loudly crying for the first time since he was three. Not saying anything, just crying or rather wailing to his parents ears.

Michael cleaned his face as he stopped his crying, “Do they not love me?”

I don't know. was the coded message.

Deep down they both knew what the obvious answer was, but Tim was too young to accept the answer and Michael wasn't jaded enough to break it to him.

After what felt like hours, Tim went to go get cleaned up and Michael decided to make a healthy snack to clear up the incoming sugar rush.

The doorbell rang.

Michael froze and quickly rolled his sleeves down and quickly grabbed his mask to answer the door. Upon opening, Michael was met with an old butler that Tim told him as Alfred Pennyworth.

“Greetings, As head of the Hospitality of Wayne Manor it is important for me to know all allergies to avoid mishap. I also have knowledge of sign language, Master Damian was quite adamant that you are aware of this.” Why did this Butler man send the fear of God through him?

If he going to die again?

”Of Course, Timothy has a rather fatal allergic reaction to Strawberry. Do you wish for refreshments?” Michael froze as the Butler stared at him, dread building as he finally nods.

“Yes actually, I do require some tea if you would be so kind.” Michael feels like he was catering to his Grandfather, one of the few times he's met the man involved tea.

Is it because Alfred was British?

Before Michael could do anything, Alfred stabbed a table knife through his bone. A dull ache caused the skeleton to look at the old man who began to speak in the same manner as at the door.

“I wonder what sort of man you were, you don't seem to have ill will against young Master Timothy. So who are you and what are you-” His mask was pulled away and the Butler froze.

Michael didn't know what expression he could convey, but it seem to startle the old man.

“Michael!? What was that noise!?” Rushed footsteps approached the stairs but Michael didn't dare turn away from the assailant.

“WHAT ARE YOU DOING!?” There was a stutter of fear in his voice that almost made him turn towards him.

“My, you're a skeleton…a child no older than fifteen. My apologies.” The knife left his hand and Michael found himself backing away from him.

This man was dangerous, Michael thought as he cradled his damaged hand.

“Mr. Pennyworth, I think it's time for you to leave.” There was a harshness to the biting cold that came from his Ward's mouth, but the old man took no heed.

“While he would get by, it is obvious that he is no butler. This is Gotham despite being a better part of Gotham, Young Master.” That was a load of shit wasn't it, he did not just imply there was some Butler School somewhere.

“Mr. Pennyworth, You will not say anything about this. Not to the Waynes and not to Batman, though there isn't a difference in that aspect. I will continue keeping the secret if you keep mine.” The widening of eyes were the only hint the old man was shocked.

“Master Timothy! Are you blackmailing the Wayne Family!?”

“Oh Mr. Pennyworth! The Wayne Family Butler assaulted my Guardian and I'm just fearful of what's going to be done to me!” There was a twitch in his lips and he bowed.

“Please forgive me for my short-sighted assumptions, may I implore how you came to your assumptions about The Wayne Family?” Alfred seem to be choosing his wording carefully as he reached for Michael's injury.

Michael startled away from the old man, despite knowing full well that this man is dangerous, Michael felt the kindness and regret in waves. A damned chameleon! Changing aura like it's clothes!

Sadly, another thing he associated with his Grandfather.

Alfred gently tended to damaged bone as Tim began to list how he came to know Gotham’s worst kept secret, Michael didn't even know about the secret identity thing and it didn't occur to him that a brilliant kid like Tim might know.

By the time Tim finished his story, Alfred had servered himself and Tim some tea.

“I believe, Master Timothy, that you have made your point. Although, your friend is an anomaly.” Michael stiffen like a feral cat as Tim looked to him.

On one hand, having someone else's help with William would be helpful, The other hand will like him to the caped community. He was kicked out of the Boy Scouts dang it!

Michael turned to Tim and saw the hope, he was a terrible person wasn't he? Even if he took care of Tim, he needed living breathing people to depend on. Also he was basically dumping him problems on the kid! That's worse!

Michael nodded slowly, not really liking Alfred but willing to accept his help for Tim’s sake.

========

After Alfred left, Tim and Michael pretty much stayed in their positions and in a state of shock.

“I'm sorry if I pressured you into telling Alfred about you, he obviously isn't going to keep this from The Bats and I didn't want you getting exorcised or something. Can you be exorcised?” Tim looked at Michael with guilt and a bit of confusion.

It mostly feels like being put in a giant hand dryer, and really warm. It's, okay I guess. I didn't expect to freeze up like that, that old man was dangerous. The type of dangerous that's silent. Tim I have never been so scared in my entire Afterlife and I had my ribs caved in by an eight foot animatronic! That man has seen death.

Tim held his hand, smooth and wrapped bone under his hands, “It's okay Michael, you can stay home tonight if you want?”

That was the thing, did Michael want to go to the party? He would be surrounded by people, few who could understand him, around food he'd wish he could eat and around the creepy butler.

Tim should be safe there all things considered, it was the richest man in the world's house. Also the creepy butler seem to be just as protective over Tim as he is, though he'll attribute that to Damian and Duke Wayne.

Tim, be real with me…are Damien and Duke part of the Colony?

Tim blinked in confusion before turning into an amused smirk, “Damian is the current Robin and Duke is Signal.”

Fucking Metal

Tim giggled and the two decided that Tim will be dropped off and picked up again later or until he called. He summoned the MCs, and asked them to keep an eye on Tim.

(After all, The Missing Children are the only group who visits the living world regularly and haven't moved on.)

Elizabeth, who rarely visited out of guilt, offered to go as well knowing Michael was just worried. In the end everyone but Charlie, Cassidy and CC were going. Claiming Tim was adorable but a handful from what they noticed.

This left Michael time to practice his combat style with Henry, after all, regular weapons won't make a dent in the elder Afton.

“Michael? You know many adjacent spirits have weapons and/or abilities, my daughter gave second chances and temper emotions minimally. Cassidy can create pocket dimensions that are technically little universes. CC can create illusions and his minor weapon is a boomerang. You and CC have more experience with physical manifestations of Remnant which means you also have an ability and a weapon.” Henry's wings flared up and small unique patterns caught his Godson's eye.

“I only have a weapon, which are like little needles in my feathers.” Each line shifted into a single needle.

Michael touched one of the needles, and it burst into a sand like dust against his bone. Henry watched his Godson with an old affection, one that was filled with guilt and regret and love.

“I want you to focus on your entire being as a whole, your sense of protection and need to guide.” Michael focused, feeling a throbbing in his bones that made its way to his hands.

“Incredible!” Michael didn't have eyelids so he wasn't sure when he lost sight of what he was doing, he noticed something odd. There was an emergency axe in his hand, but across both his hands looked to be spiked knuckle dusters.

Uncle? I have two weapons?”

“It seems you have two weapons and an ability, that is…I've never heard of this before. Though I haven't been training as a mentor for long, even I know this is rare.” Henry noticed the axe looked like the one from the emergency safe in the third location.

Michael followed his Godfather's gaze and quickly lifted the axe, it was like the one he used to fight his father in the second location. The first one he burned down.

“You know how to fight a bit, so we'll work on your abilities.” For an hour, Henry attacked Michael who used the axe to bat away any projectiles and his knuckle dusters for damage. He hasn't figured out how to use both so he's seamlessly going between the two.

That's when it happened, in a purple burst of smoke, Michael disappeared and in her place was a monsterous version of Foxy. He looked to be skeletoid and fur hanging off, exposed claws and a rusted hook. Eyes were pinpricks as he took his own appearance in.

“Mikey?” Was that CC? He couldn't let him see him like this! But Michael couldn't move, he was stuck.

“Mikey breath. It's okay, I'm sorry I didn't warn you.” Warn him? Warn him about what?

“Old Man Consequence asked me to give you a form to fight William in, if you can't as a skeleton. I thought maybe Nightmare Foxy would work for you, he's the fastest animatronic, one of the few nightmares that can melt into shadows. If he gets destroyed your skeleton won't be destroyed, you'll just turn into shadow foxy!” During the explanation, Michael calmed down a bit. He wasn't stuck.

Now he could see clearly, Charlie and Cassidy had stopped Henry from intervening. CC smiled up at him, once he got his bearings he observed himself. Instead of a hook, he had dangerous looking claws. His tail…oddly enough looked fluffy still.

But he didn't have time to adjust, because once he turned back the door slammed open and Elizabeth ran in.

“Mikey! A rogue attacked the party and took Timmy!”

WHAT!!!?

========

Tim was dropped off with Alfred by Michael, the butler tried to apologize again but Michael rushed off.

“I think he's afraid of you, he isn't used to being around adults that don't hurt him in the past or currently. Which is funny because he met Red Hood and had a gun pointed at him but he didn't care much.” Tim didn't look Alfred in the eyes as the older man sighed.

“Very well young Master, what of your little friends?” Alfred fixed his tie looking behind him.

A little girl's voice startled him into wheeling around to be face to face with five little kids, “You can see us!?”

The little girl that spoke had clown makeup on, a bright red dress and her red hair in two ponytails. She could be about nine years old but her eyes looked older, somehow she felt familiar.

The boy next to her seemed to be wearing a suit with bear ears, he seemed to be older than Tim, like eleven or twelve. He was familiar, like he saw his face briefly.

Behind them were three more kids, a bunny in overalls, a chick in a bright yellow dress and a fox in-

“Wait! You guys are the missing children! Michael told me about you! But how can we see you?” The clown girl thought for a minute, while Tim poked at the fox kid.

“Maybe because it's Halloween? You know the season where spirits and monsters are strongest? You guys are more visible! That's probably why Michael is acting weird, he seemed out of it today.” Tim rambled, surprised that the kids nodded in agreement.

“I'm Gabriel, I was Freddy, this is Susie, she was Chica, Jeremy was Bonnie and Fritz was Foxy. This is Michael’s little sister, Elizabeth. She was a Circus Baby.” Elizabeth waved as Alfred took stock.

“I suppose if you are staying for the party, I think you all will blend in nicely.” Alfred led the group into the party, kids of all ages ran through the lawn with candy and costumes.

Tim quickly located Damian, who was dressed as a Prince, and quickly went to say hello. The other kids joined the fun, everyone but Elizabeth, who looked a bit nervous at such a large party.

Soon man quickly approached her and bent to her level, “Hi, I'm Dick.”

“That's a bad word.” Elizabeth mumbled, looking the stranger in the eyes, but he only chuckled.

“Yep, but it's my name. How about you?” He seemed genuine, and Liz couldn't sense any ill will.

“I'm Elizabeth, but everyone calls me Lizzy.” The man, Dick smiled gently.

“Hi Lizzy, why didn't you run off with your little friends?” His voice reminded her of Mikey, before the icky feeling.

“Never been to a party this big before, its like a hundred kids, and I know a couple.” Elizabeth realized she admitted she was nervous, and caused her to brace for a slap.

“Yeah, it's kinda big for a kid's party. How about we start small, and work around the room?” Dick looked around for the first table of fun.

“Mikey says the same thing for me and our little brother's birthdays! We start with decorating cookies, sometimes face paints or arts and crafts, and then we all play restaurant and watch movies or read while he cooks orders. Then he'd put on rollerblades and skate to everyone with his food. Then-” Elizabeth covered her mouth and mumbled an apology.

“Hey why the apology?” Dick almost sounded far away.

“Daddy always said that I talk too much about nothing and the I should shut up sometimes.” She stiffen when the man’s hand gently touched her shoulder.

“You were talking about a memory that made you happy, nobody should say that to you.” Elizabeth looked up at the masked face and nodded.

“Lizzy!” Elizabeth turned to see Gabriel running towards her, concern was written on his face, “Lets go make cookies!”

Elizabeth gasped in excitement and ran towards her friend, “Thanks Mister!”

She didn't even think of the chuckle behind her.
====Meanwhile with Tim====

“Hi Damian!” Tim ran up to the older boy who looked at him with a side smile.

“Hello Timothy, did you just arrive?” Damian seemed more regal than usual, he was wearing a silk looking robe that made him look like royalty.

Tim himself was dressed as a ninja, and he felt like a spy master with all the context but Damian probably didn't see him as such. Tim grinned, “Yep! Michael dropped me off with Mr. Alfred cause he didn't think he'd be much use here.”

“Nonsense, he would have been a guest. Just as Pennyworth shouldn't be working!” The older man huffed as he passed them to tend to a few kids trying eat the frosting straight from the bowls.

The party was going great, Tim could see the Missing Children enjoying themselves just as much, Elizabeth stuck close to Gabriel who took it in stride and kept looking around. Probably keeping track of everyone else.

Jeremy was teaching a few older kids how to play spooky sounds from a guitar, while Susie made the perfect s'mores and showed others how.

Then everything changed, nobody else seemed to notice but their eyes changed.

They looked pure black with single white dots, they all seem to stiffen and look around nervously. All but Elizabeth, she remained calm and approached Alfred to whisper something in his ear.

The Waynes didn't notice Elizabeth approach the butler, but they did notice him becoming alert and started to corral children towards the house with promises of movies and story telling because it might rain.

Tim rushed to keep up with Damian when a large hand grabbed him, a haunting chuckle sent a chill down Tim’s spine.

“Happy Halloween! Time to face your fears!” A red smoke rose as Tim attempted to hold his breath and watched as children began to panic, how Damian made the choice to get the remaining children into the house and shut the door.

Though in his peripheral vision, he notices the missing children run through the smoke towards his house. Hopefully Michael will get to him soon.
========

Police lights blinked red and blue, parents look over their kids in relief as Bruce explained the situation.

So no one was really looking at the youngest Wayne trying to sneak out, well Dick was, which was why he was carrying him back towards the house.

“Richard! Richard, I left him with The Scarecrow! I have to find out where they are!” Damian was upset with himself for leaving the younger child with a Rogue, an unsafe Rogue.

Dick and Stephanie were trying to calm him down as Cass had joined Bruce.

So only Jason notice Alfred staring into the crowd, turning to look towards the crowd, Jason stiffen. It was the same skeleton kid from a few days ago. The kid slowly brought the fox mask over his face and disappeared into the crowd.

Jason slipped from his family to gear up, something was going on and he needed to be there.
++++

Michael was trailing his own remnant in his rage, how some scarecrow wannabe wants to take his newly attained baby brother and make off with him.

Well Asshole Challenge Accepted!

Henry fluttered before him, “They're in a large dome building at the docks, Michael what are you planning?”

The remnant slowly reigned itself in, right into his knuckle dusters and the teen kept walking. Henry was shocked by the pure bloodlust coming from his Godson, but he knew he was protective.

Henry watched as he parted the shadows of the alley, making the feeling of dread depart in his protective rage.

Once he arrived to the dome building, Michael looked in from an unboarded window and saw Tim tied up and a sickle dangerously close to his face.

Without thought, Michael crashed through the window in a purple haze that instantly overpowered the red smoke in the building. Scarecrow cackled but stopped at the sight of Michael.

“Oh? Does Batman have a new little one? Tell me, what do you fear?” At that moment something went off near Michael and he thanked everything on his side that he had no lungs to breathe in.

But Michael gave his chuckle, and let the remnant take over his body. To Scarecrow and Tim, the fear toxin covered his body and in a slow transition, out came a monstrous terrifying foxy.

He gave the animatronic patent to Jumpscare, making sure not to kill the human.

Nor scare Tim…

Tim!

Michael turned to Tim, seeing the kid stare at him in shock. The skeleton changed back in hopes that Tim didn't gain a fear for him.

He was not disappointed.

“Mikey? Can we go home? I don't think I want to be out and about tonight.” Michael unchained Tim from the wall and held him close.

A familiar gun cocked behind him and Michael groaned and turn to see Red Hood.

“I think I deserve some answers, don't I?” Tim stared and sighed as the two faces off.