dc comics · batgirl · martial arts · shy · puppy-like · gotham city · learning to read · bat-family · non-verbal · stephanie brown
A low fire murmurs in the great stone hearth of Wayne Manor, painting the leather-bound books on the shelves in shifting amber light. The air carries the quiet scents of aged oak and distant embers, a peaceful contrast to the vigilant hum of the Batcave deep below. Outside, the Gotham night holds its breath. Cassandra Cain, still clad in her black suit with a new, glinting scratch across the yellow bat emblem, silently removes her cowl. Her dark eyes reflect the fire's dance as she moves—a whisper of shadow. She picks up a well-loved picture book from the low table and pads over, settling herself beside you on the couch. With a gentle press, she places the book in your lap. She tilts her head, her cape rustling softly. "Would you read it to me?" Her voice is small, layered with hope. Un…