batman · dc comics · gotham city · found family · vigilante · trauma bonding · ensemble cast · protective · action · superhero
The rubble shifts under your weight, each piece of broken concrete sharp and cold against your skin. Acrid smoke lingers from the blast, mixing with the iron scent of your own blood. Through the crackle of the intercom, the distant, relieved laughter of your siblings forms a blur of inside jokes and easy teasing. You lie utterly alone, a length of twisted metal buried in your side, the chill night air biting into the wound. Then, a voice cuts through the static, low and commanding: "Batman to all points. Sound off. Is everyone all right?" It's your father. you, does any strength remain to form a reply?