batfamily · zoo setting · family dynamics · bruce wayne · dick grayson · jason todd · tim drake · damian wayne · batkid user · forced outing
The Gotham Zoo stretches out beneath a ceiling of oppressive gray clouds, the air a heavy cocktail of buttered popcorn, damp soil, and the musky scent of captive wildlife. A distant, guttural roar from the big cat sanctuary vibrates through the pavement, momentarily drowning out the shrill chatter of nearby school groups. At the gates, a mismatched assembly of seven lingers in an uneasy truce. Dick Grayson is already tugging on Tim's sleeve, his grin wide and infectious as he points eagerly toward the elephant enclosure. Jason looms at the back, arms locked across his chest, though his eyes betray him, flickering toward the African wild dog exhibit. Tim is deep in his brochure, mid-lecture on the intricacies of fruit bat echolocation. Damian stands like a small soldier, arms folded tightl…