Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It's one of the quieter nights in Gotham, if you can call 4 attempted muggings and an attempted breaking and entering, a quiet night. But overall, yes, it's quiet. It's been quiet for the last few nights. Most Rogues were locked up in Arkham, excluding the Joker. Harley and Ivy were pretty chill since they officially got together—which, good for them—so really, nothing too exciting.

Which was exactly why Tim began internally freaking out.

Too quiet.

Too slow.

He couldn't explain it. But something was wrong. Of course, Tim never doubts his instincts. They haven't steered him wrong before. But he couldn't exactly tell the other bats. Sure, they'd believe him, but they'd be all stressed and jumpy all the time, and not take care of themselves till it blows up in their face.

Not ideal.

Everyone was at a semi civil place right now. And, Tim doesn't want to ruin that. But still, these quiet nights were worrying him.

It won't take too long before something cracks. The only question is, who can withstand it longer?

That's what Janet used to say when certain competitors got too quiet for too long. Mother thrived in playing the waiting game. Jack thrived in executing her plans. They taught Tim, some of their simplest skills that he still used to this day. Perhaps if they postponed their trips, they could've taught him so much more.

But now, they were gone.

A sudden voice filtering through the coms, startled Tim out of his mental spiral.

"There's strange activity coming from a warehouse near the docks, Red Robin you're the closest."

He sighed.

Of course, he had to go and jinx the little semblance of peace they've had.

Someone strangle him.

Why was he even complaining? It gave him something to do, whilst keeping his mind off things.

"Be careful, a few small gangs and Joker's goons, have spotted roaming around, lately."

Leave it to Oracle to know everything about everyone. Seriously, what would they even do without her?

"On it."

He shot a grappling hook, throwing his body off the building, the line grew taught as it supported his ful weight. He'll never get tired of this exhilarating feeling of that brief moment of freedom. One of the best feelings he's ever experienced since taking on the mantle of Robin ... well that, and the sheer satisfaction of knowing he'd done some good.

Reaching his destination, something odd caught his attention. Several people were carrying giant crates into the warehouse. They were in a hurry, that's for sure. While someone was spouting orders. Unfortunately, the third Robin wasn't close enough to hear what was being said.

Not wanting to attract attention to himself yet, he decided to stealthily sneak inside the side window to see what all the commotion was about.

"Don't move so carelessly ya moron, that's profit right there!"

"Sorry, boss!"

The man addressed as 'boss' looked even more annoyed. Greasy blond hair, reclining hair line, bear belly, beady little eyes, and a huge scar under his right eye. With, of course, a gun straped to his thigh.

Okay.

Making sure to stay hidden behind several huge grates, he whispered.

"Hey, Oracle?"

"Running scans now."

Sigh.

While patiently waiting for the verdict, Tim decided to check some of the smaller crates that wouldn't immediately draw attention. He's certain they're drugs. Of course, he's correct when he managed to pry one open without drawing attention.

Bags and bags of meth, ready for shipping.

What're they planning to do with all this?

Oracle's voice came in.

"Freddy, 43, arrested for domestic violence, harassment, fraud, selling meth, etc. Runs a small gang near the Narrows, used to operate in Crime Alley before Red Hood came along."

Another voice sounded from the comm.

"So obviously, I did a good job keepin creeps out of my turf."

That would be the 'resurrected the lazarus pit' older brother, Jason. Always the dramatic one.

Truth is, Jason did actually bring a change to Crime Alley. Maybe not the one Bruce wanted, but one it definitely needed. He kept drugs away from kids, looked after the prostitutes. His men respected him. Not just fear.

Jason was needed for Crime Alley.

Tim would rather eat his own foot than say it out loud, though.

"Need backup, Red?"

Dick.

"No, but better be safe than sorry."

"Copy that."

Tim weaved through the many crates, trying to determine how many thugs there were and how many were armed. Freddy was, still shouting orders and berating anyone making the simplest mistake. Something about getting it done before their ride arrives?

What ride? When's the ride?

Sucking in a deep breath, Tim threw a smoke bomb at them. Several panicked shouting echoed throughout the building. Taking advantage of the confusion, Tim slipped out from his hiding spot, pouncing at the enemy. He zigzaged around the thugs before knocking them out with his bo staff. One fired his gun and everything escalated from there. Navigating through the smoke, the third Robin dodged the flying bullets with practiced ease.

"It's a bat! Run!!"

Freddy in all his gang leader glory, paled. A bat!? How!? He'd been careful not to draw attention.

Apparently not careful enough.

He ignored the little whisper gnawing at his head. Ever since Red Hood showed up, he lost 72% of his clientele. Everytime business started booming, some fucker bat messed it up. Those annoying rodents always got in his way. Well not anymore. Taking out his gun he aimed for where the sounds of fighting came from and took the shot.

Which Tim deflected using his bo staff. And ran straight into Freddy's embrace, knocking them to the ground. Freddy didn't have any hope it'd hit whatever bat, where it mattered. But he had to do something!

When the smoke finally cleared, most of the goons were knocked out cold, others were injured from the shooting, and Red Robin was straggling Freddy, his bo resting on his throat.

"You have some explaining to do once you get to the station, Freddy."

The elder man swallowed. Fuckin hell. Fuckin bats. Why did they have to ruin everything!?

Tim had already cuffed all the remaining thugs, including Freddy—who kept on moping. The ones outside the building had escaped, along with a few ones from earlier who decided to bolt as soon they realized a bat was here.

Orphan and Spoiler would take care it.

There wasn't anything left to do when Nightwing showed up. Looking around, Dick was left disappointed that he couldn't join. But he's ultimately glad Tim handled it just fine.

They have to wait before they could get an answer as to why there were so many crates carrying meth, and where its going. But. Great night.

Yeah.

Tim eyed Freddy and the crates.

Why did feel like he just blew up a can of worms? Where was all these drugs going?

"Got any idea, what they were planning on doing with all these?"

Tim was staring intensely at the crates, willing the answers he sought to emerge from wherever they were hiding. The answers, of course, weren't going to just appear. Although, that would've been convenient. Freddy said something about their ride ... what ride? Were they distributing all this somewhere else? Someplace that wasn't Gotham?

Is so, where?

Why?

A billion dollar question ... or, maybe not.

It had been quiet in Gotham lately, except for your everyday thugs, but overall ... it's quiet. Small gangs have been too quiet. Even Joker—who was known for his dramatics—was silent.

What if?

What if is wasn't quiet, but calculated. It would make sense. Most wouldn't normally really think about relocating to another city, cause honestly, Gotham's just fucked up enough, not to care. And Gotham's home. Many wouldn't want to leave home.

Joker especially, wouldn't want to leave Gotham. Not with batman here. Maybe this was another ploy to gain B's attention? Did someone convince him?

Of so, who?

That made sense.

But what brought this on? Did Joker finally snap and decided to go all out? No. Not that. Tim doubted the clown would give up on the challenge, so easily.

But what else?

All these unanswered questions were giving Tim a headache. He didn't like not knowing.

Something suddenly shook him, disrupting his thoughts.

"Hey Red, talk to me."

Tim blinked.

Oh

"Sorry, I just realized something."

"What's that?"

"None of these drugs are for Gotham."

Freddy choked, drawing the vigilantes attention. Both knew right there, that Tim was right.

Gordon showed up with police, not long after that. Taking care of everything, and locking up the meth as evidence. He sighed once he saw Freddy. That man had been a pain at his side for some time, now.

"Gordon."

The detective turned to to Red Robin, the one responsible for tonight's arrest. Indicating, he's listening.

"We have reason to believe, Freddy and Joker are working together, Freddy's probably looking to relocate to another city. I don't know about the Joker, though."

Relocate?

To another city?

The Joker?

"I'll look into it, and let you know what I find."

"Thanks."

The two vigilantes left after that, leaving Jim to deal with the rest.

Sigh.

Arriving at the cave after patrol, Tim saw Bruce and Damien already waiting. Dismounting from his motorcycle, he marched on to the batcomputer. Damien was cleaning his katana, while Bruce went to shower.

It appeared that Damien had already foregone his suit for a more comfortable, semi casual attire.

Instead following along and washing up, Tim in all his brilliance decided to do some research before retiring for rest of the night. 

"At least shower first, Drake. I know cleanliness is a foreign concept to you, but try to be considerate of those around you."

"Love you too, demon brat."

The littlest Robin scoffed, and walked off.

In Damien speak that meant: I'm not apposed to loving you too, but I'll never admit that.

Tim thought he'd gotten pretty good at understanding his youngest brother. Growing up as an assassin didn't prepare the boy for his family. Trying to prove his worth by eliminating the competition was how he was raised.

But after several murder attempts, alot of arguments ending up in brawls, and enough snark, Damien eventually mellowed out a little.

The brat didn't try to kill him anymore, so progress.

Sliding into the chair, Tim put all other thoughts on the back of his mind and started to focus. If Gotham's criminals really wanted out of the city, they needed a way to transfer all their goods. And it needed to be discreet enough to go unnoticed by the bats, which wasn't an easy feat. Despite his insistent need for dramatics, Joker was infact intellectual. He just liked showcasing his work, playing with Batman. But he did possess enough talent to be discreet.

Ugh.

Tim hated admitting that.

Little disturbances here and there that Bruce took care of, nothing too note worthy.

But enough to make the big bat question.

Thankfully, the big bat noticed something odd with Joker. It'd be horrendous work starting from scratch.

Bruce—being the paranoid grunt he is—documented everything he noticed these last few nights, so less work for Tim.

Going thoroughly over the files, he took note of a pattern.

While crime hadn't gone down, several cases the bats handled, correlated with some grunts going quiet. Three nights ago, Tim, Jason and Cass took down a trafficking ring before it really started doing business. The bastards didn't even put up a fight. One of the smaller gangs went silent after that.

It wasn't done with precision, more with fantastic timing.

Mm.

"Tim?"

The third Robin, with all his years of training, nearly burst out his seat. Bruce was casually looming over him, looking concerned. His hair still damp. The simple button up clung to his frame highlighting his muscles. Which made him appear more imposing than necessary.

Ugh.

"B, don't do that."

The older man sighed.

"What're you searching for?"

"It looks like a of Gotham's worst —ahem, the Joker—, decided to relocate. The only problem is, I don't know, where."

"Hm."

"Of course, I thought of Bludhaven but that's basically just Gotham's sister. Now it could New York—which, doesn't make sense—or, even Detroit."

"Hm."

"But, I'm thinking it isn't in America. It could be Korea, but that's just a guess. I also can't figure out what Joker has to do with all this. He'd never ditch Gotham, not with you here, anyway."

"Hm."

Tim fought back an eye twitch. He had to remember, this was Bruce he was talking too. The man might seem like a dunce, but he's the greatest detective. Just an emotionally constipated one.

The younger man forced a smile.

"Any ideas?"

"Hm."

A ringing noise interrupted their one-sided conversation.

Turning back to the computer, Tim saw it was detective Gordon. Babs must have directed his call here. Once again, Tim was thankful for the existence that was Barbara Gorden.

He clicked answer.

"Yes, Gordon?"

"I got something out of Freddy while escorting to the station, thought you'd like to know."

Both vigilantes shared a look.

Obviously, we'd like to know.

Bruce spoke this time.

"What is it?"

"Apparently, Freddy and a few other gang leaders collaborated with Joker and thought it'd be a good idea to start business elsewhere. Now, while not surprising, their location of choice certainly wasn't what I was expecting."

"Continue."

There was a beat of silence on the other line, before Gordon weaved a sigh.

"Yokohama."

Tim choked on air, Bruce's gaze darkened.

Yokohama.

The most prominent port city in Japan.

The city is a hotbed for criminal activity, with various dark organizations, deeply entrenched in its politics and economy. After the third World War, allied-affiliated warlords established an autonomous region, leading to a unique legal landscape and a concentration of powerful individuals and groups.

Not nearly as fucked up as Gotham.

But it ran on its own set of rules. Where in Gotham, the people whom are supposed to be leading, are just corrupted. Yokohama had its own government, economy, military, and politics.

A vibrant, yet dangerous, city where the lines between the legal and illegal, the ordinary and extraordinary, were constantly blurred.

They didn't have meta-humans, they had something called ability users. Abilities stemming from one's soul and will, making them a fundamental part of their identity. Not much were known about ability users, and that frustrated Bruce to no end.

Ra's, especially wanted access to the city but every assassin he sent was sent back chopped up in pieces. Tim was pleased knowing the old walking corpse couldn't get his rotting hands on something.

In all honesty, the rumors of Yokohama being isolated was an exaggerated assumption. Tim had visited with his parents for business deals, once or twice. It had been welcoming enough.

The scenery was fantastic.

The Justice League did try to intervene in some Mafia war that took place a few years ago. Not only were they turned down, they were kicked out.

Bruce didn't agree with the methods they enforced, but he ultimately couldn't argue much as the leaders of Yokohama couldn't care less about B's moral values.

If Gotham's criminals went to Yokohama, it'll be difficult to chase after them.

None of the cape community were welcome there. For many reasons, Tim's sure.

When questioned why? They replied with two words: Property damage.

But from the look on Bruce's face, they were going anyway. Would they be allowed to roam, freely? Were they allowed to roam at all?

Probably not.

Sigh.

Yeah, Tim just had to go and jinx it.

Chapter Text

There were about a thousand —down right snotty— slurs in several different languages Jason silently compiled on a non-existant list that he should've written down, in case he forgot about them. All of them just so happened to be directed at a big scary bat.

"Stop sulking Jason, you look like someone stole your motorcycle while you were driving it."

Jason flicked his gaze to a certain black haired, blue eyed boy, donning his full Red Robin regalia, sitting across from him.

It occurred to him that he hadn't actually asked where the younger boy's inspiration for Red Robin came from. Of course, there was lot going on with Bruce stuck in the time stream and all that. But they didn't talk about it. Things between the two former Robins did settle shortly before B got lost.

Now they just bickered and occasionally got batburgers when patrols ended.

"Still don't get why I had to come, I have my own shit to take care of." Jason grumbled.

Tim sighed in that exasperated manner of his, before pinching his nose.

"Because that's who they picked, and we can't very well tell them to fuck off. You came of your own free will, so don't brood and pretend that you were dragged here."

Jason scoffed. He knew that. But he had a life of his own, damn it.

His little brother suddenly lit up, facing him.

"Just think about all the shit we're free to pull off, without B nagging at us."

Jason smirked.

Yeah that does sound nice, not having their paranoid father figure breathing down their necks. It felt suffocating, most times. Other times Jason questioned if Bruce even considered trusting him. It's an emotional roller-coaster he'd love to leave.

Timbo made a good point, this could very well be the break he needed to get away from Bruce.

His mood immediately soured as he thought of what they'll be doing. And how they got here.

...

After Tim and Bruce spoke with detective Gordon, B called in an immediate family meeting the next night. All consisting of, Bruce, Tim, Dick, Jason, Damien, Steph, Cass and Babs via video call.

Duke slept like a rock, so they decided to leave him.

B was aggressively commanding something of somebody on the phone when Jason showed up in the cave, mostly everyone were still in their suits. He didn't know what got the old man so frustrated but he figured he could stay for the drama. Plopping down next to the sleep deprived and caffeinated Robin, Jason whispered.

"What's up with the old man?"

The fucker barely glanced up from his laptop.

"A few forgettable gangs and Joker collaborated to immigrate to Yokohama, B's currently on his 6th phone call trying to convince their government to allow us entry."

Jason was stumped.

Yeah.

Okay.

That would definitely warrant B's frustration. His own too. Fuckin' Joker, again. It just had to be that stupid fucking clown.

He had to remember not to go on full on rampage in the cave.

Jason eyed Tim as he hyper focused on his laptop, hoping to distract himself from all the green.

"What're you doing, anyway?"

Tim forcefully gathered enough energy to look up from his work.

"Researching everything I can about Yokohama, it's not going so great."

Jason hummed.

He wasn't surprised. From what he knew Yokohama was very distant from the rest of the world.

In all honesty, Jason didn't know much about the infamous Port City that was Yokohama. Sure, he knew Ability users existed and most of them settled there but he didn't pay close attention to it. The fact that Bruce also knew little about it made him feel somewhat smug.

Steph had of course, ditched her suit for a more comfortable t-shirt and denim shorts.

"I hope we'll at least get to do something fun this time. I'm so bored of the same old cycle." She whined.

"I'd rather not have to deal with it all, got my turf to look after."

"Live a little, Jay. Where's your love for adventure?"

"It blew up."

"That joke stopped being funny after the 167th time you made it, did you lose your humor too?" The blonde mocked.

"Fuck off, barbie. I'm funny."

"Yeah, and Tim will grow into a bigger tank than you."

Tim scowled.

"Why the fuck did you drag me into this?"

"You're just fun to bully, Timbit." Jason teased.

The younger brother slammed his laptop shut.

"You wear a bucket on your head and you use a battle cry that sounds like an alley cat that got his tail bit off by a rat and somehow got horny."

"Fuck you, it's not!"

An argument broke out between the trio. Steph and Jason teamed up against Tim, then Barbie immediately switched sides when Jason barked out a particularly rude insult.

She always defended her best friend when it mattered.

The bickering helped Jason calm down enough to actually see past the green. He knew why they started it, and he was grateful to them.

Dick sat on high alert, glancing between the trio incase a brawl broke out —which, it always did. Damien just sneered, focusing on his sketching. Cass smiled fondly at their antics. Babs, of course, was currently scouring the Yokohama internet for information about Joker and his new apparent goons.

At long last, Bruce's call ended.

And while he didn't seem pleased, the call probably went better than anticipated. Turning to his children, he was greeted by the site of three of his kids verbally assaulting each other.

Of course, it's Tim, Steph, and Jason.

"Enough."

Everyone straightened in their seats at Bruce's tone. The trio went silent instantly. It wasn't Bruce speaking, it's Batman.

"I've spoken with Yokohama's government. While they don't feel comfortable with us entering their city, they've agreed under certain ... conditions." Bruce hesitated.

Certain conditions?

Didn't those fuckers realize what kind of threat Joker represented?

The clown loved playing with his victims, taunting and ridiculing every aspect he found pathetic. Somehow, he inevitably obtained some sort of vulnerabilities of those he set his sites on. Crushing their hope, before it could properly form.

Jason was once a recipient of his ridicule, Joker broke him.

Dick spoke up before Jason could screech at the old man to fuckin' elaborate.

"What conditions B?"

Bruce's jaw clenched.

"Only three vigilantes are allowed to enter, and they already picked which ones."

"Seriously!?" Steph evidently appeared disappointed at the mention of sending her pseudo siblings off to unknown territory without her.

Jason pitied her a little, she mostly got stationed doing boring shit.

"If we go we'll also be constantly monitored."

Bruce was furious.

He further explained that no, the government wouldn't be the ones keeping tabs but rather an organization called the Port Mafia. A fuckin Mafia. The vigilantes wouldn't be monitored from afar —that would make it much more easier to slip away— they personally get to meet their escorts.

The real kicker?

Nightwing, Red Robin and Red Hood were chosen to go.

It was either them or none at all.

Bruce had tried to argue, saying he'd be the best one to engage with Joker, but they wouldn't budge.

Batman and Robin were forbidden from entering the city borders. Batman, because he tried to implement his beliefs onto the rest of Yokohama and because he's a Justice League member.

That much was understandable.

Robin, because he's a kid with a sword ... apparently?

In simpler terms, they'd be babysat.

B's paranoia shot through the Watchtower at their decision.

He decided to firmly stand his ground and force his way in if he had too. And of course, Dickybird, the sweet eldest brother didn't take Bruce's shit sitting down.

"Oh, for fuck's sakes. We don't need your constant supervision. We're capable of handling our shit, you paranoid emotionally constipated asshole."

Tim sided with Dick. From what Jason concluded, Tim had a nasty habit of testing Bruce's patience on a daily basis.

"I agree with Dick. We can hold our own."

"You have no idea what you could be walking into, Tim." The big man tried to argue.

Being the smart-ass fucker that Timbit took pride in being, he brazenly stated,

"If I can scour the entirety of Europe alone for a clue of your existence, I can handle one isolated city."

Translation: I had drag my own ass to clean up your mess, I can do it again.

Jason's response?

"Fuck off, you don't get to tell me what to do."

Cause fuck Bruce.

He didn't get to dictate his life.

An argument broke out, opinions clashed as everyone voiced their thoughts. None —excluding Damien— were in agreement with Bruce's overprotective nature.

The demon brat was more offended that he was banned from going, stating that clearly he was the superior choice.

Alfred had to step in, berating them for their fowl language, turning to Bruce.

"If I may be so bold, master Bruce?"

Bruce hesitated, he then gestured for the butler to say his piece.

"You need to trust your sons capabilities, Yokohama can be quite lovely this time of year."

Bruce's jaw set, content on insisting of searching for another path. One that didn't involve sending any of his kids to an foreign territory.

Alfred wasn't having it.

"I highly doubt you stop them even if you tried."

...

So here they were.

Patiently sitting in the batwing —yes it's called the batwing— waiting for it to land, so they could get it over with.

Their bags were packed with all the necessary essentials.

Cass was piloting the batwing because she's trusted enough to leave after dropping them off.

Dick was currently busy sulking because of his quarrel with Bruce.

Nothing new.

Dick usually needed some cool down time after another colorful exchange with the old man. Which was why he remained so quiet, instead yapping their ears off as usual.

Jason didn't like being away from Crime Alley too long. Yes, he made sure Barbie and Babs would take care of it but they didn't run things the way he did. It left him feeling uneasy, being away from his home for long. He didn't know how long this mission could take.

Knowing the Joker, he'd stretch it out as long as possible. Tiring out the vigilantes before making his big move.

Ugh.

Deciding to do something productive, Jason gave Tim a once over before voicing his question.

"So what'd ya learn about the Port Mafia?"

Without missing a beat, Tim happily explained his findings with amped excitement.

"Port Mafia. A few years ago, it was crumbling under the former boss's rule."

"Seriously?" Not worldly devastating news.

"Yeah. Apparently he went mad, or something. The new boss seems more competent, and from what Oracle dug up —and she had to dig deep— he used to be an underground doctor." Tim patiently elaborated.

"How'd he become boss?" Jason's pretty sure, he already knew the answer.

"Everyone says the old boss left him everything but I'd bet my pickled spleen, he killed him."

"Sounds about right."

Dark organizations ran like that. The boss usually gets too lost in his greed, make huge mistakes and then some equally greedy person assassinates him and take his place.

An endless cycle.

Tim filled both Dick and Jason in as much as he could find, which wasn't much. The third Robin explained that he visited with his parents for business dealings years ago so he somewhat knew how to navigate around the city.

Which was a huge help for the other two.

Tim seemed to contemplate something, seemingly coming to a decision he questioned.

"Any suggestions on what we do when we need sleep?"

Mhm.

"They'll probably provide us with lodgings, there's no guarantee that it won't be bugged but we could probably find the bugs quickly." Tim pondered.

"I say we just lock the doors, we're all pretty light sleepers and if there's cameras, we could just break it or block it." Jason proudly suggested.

"Gee, why didn't I think of your genius?" Tim deadpanned.

Okay.

Rude.

Jason side eyed Dick. The older was lazing in his chair, probably staring off into space. He couldn't tell with the domino mask on. Normally, Jason left Dick to sulk alone, not wanting to intrude.

But now ...

"Hey Dickface, help brainstorm ideas here." He blurted. Tim appeared to want to smack him upside-down.

Well suck it.

Dick could mope some other time.

"Sigh. Setting up an alarm system would be most beneficial. Tim's right, the place is most definitely bugged and has hidden security cameras but finding them shouldn't be too hard." Dick theorized, finally shifting his attention to his younger brothers.

The Bruce dilemma probably took a back seat.

"Oh. We all speak Japanese, right?" Dick inquired.

Well...

"I can understand but talking is whole different can of worms."

He wasn't particularly proud of that. Jason could understand what was being said just fine but he didn't trust his mouth to pronounce the words correctly.

Hell, it took him weeks to be able to pronounce basic English words right after his dunk in the pit.

"Ah, I'm fluent. Janet made sure of it." Tim confirmed.

Honestly?

That didn't surprise Jason. He obviously had limited knowledge of the younger Robin's parents but is was common for rich families to teach their kids several different languages from a young age.

For future business purposes, of course.

"I'm definitely not fluent, but i know my way around." Dickface admitted.

Tim cleared his throat. "That's good. It'll be best for us to understand what they'll be discussing about us."

"Hey boy genius, how're we supposed to act around our babysitters?"

Cause Jason would love to know if he should be an asshole, or a polite asshole. Either works. The former was prefered.

Tim stared at him blankly, as if he could read his thoughts.

"Escorts. And just be intimidating, that usually works."

Jason, ultimately ignored Tim's correction as he pondered aloud.

"So just be myself? Got it."

Tim sighed.

"Any luck on determining the Ability user's identities?"

He'd been wondering about it the whole flight.

"From what I gathered, Abilities correspond with certain colors for example red symbolizes aggression, usually Abilities designed for provoking, or destruction. However, that doesn't narrow it down at all. And, apparently you can feel when an Ability when it activates, like something otherworldly pressing down on your every nerve. I don't know how to explain it better, seeing as I've never experienced it before. Some Abilities are strong enough to temporarily create their own controlled time currents corresponding with dimensional spatial ruptures. How fascinating is that? Unfortunately, Ability users are scarse, otherwise I'd definitely track one down to ask them question–"

Dick cut Tim's ramble off, before it could escalate any further.

"Hold on, Timmy. Your analysis sound really interesting but we're kinda on the clock here."

Tim stared, obviously disappointed that he couldn't continue —if the pout was anything to go by— before exhaling.

"Yeah, you're right. Sorry I got excited."

Dick smiled fondly. Jason often questioned the entirety of their relationship. Yes, they acted like siblings but more often than not Jason saw Dick as more a father than a brother to Tim. Jason had actively witnessed Tim lie to B's face without flinching or, feeling remorse.

But he confided with their older brother, he trusted him on level deeper than Bruce.

"There seems to be patterns concerning Abilities, but unfortunately I can't tell you what exactly to look for. But you'll feel it." Tim added.

The plane arrived at their destination before they could further discuss their plans.

"I hope we can get over with this quickly."

Tim glared at Jason as he got ready to depart from the plane.

"You just jinxed it!"

Jason just chuckled as he exited. Not giving Timberlina a response.

Stepping softly on the ground, Jason confirmed he was off of the plane. He glanced around while waiting for his brother.

The place they landed seemed to be in an opening in a forest. Yokohama wasn't far if you went by train but it would be a walk before reaching the damned thing. Jason hoped they wouldn't have to walk on top of everything. But for now he took a moment to enjoy the greenery. Somehow the air felt fresher here.

But that's to be expected since it wasn't near Gotham.

He heard someone clear their throat beside him. He turned his head to see an elderly gentlemanly looking man, dressed in a long, black coat over a white dress shirt with a black bow, his pants and shoes being the same color. Over the coat, he wore a dirt-brown scarf that's nearly the same length as his coat. He also had a monocle over his right eye.

Something about him reminded Jason of Alfred —not the butler part— the same way Alfred reminded him of a loving grandfather.

The man waited for Tim and Dick to join them before ahe started speaking heavily accented English.

"I assume the person who dropped you off will not be staying?"

The guy even sounded like a loving grandfather. He was granddad coded.

A loving grandfather whom led a gang.

Tim answered. "Yep, Orphan is leaving right now."

As he finished speaking, the plane lifted in the air and took off. Jason dramatically gestured to the now empty spot behind them, as if to say: ya see, we're don't break our promises.

Which was a lie, by the way.

They broke their promises all the time but the gangster granddad didn't need to know that.

"Good. My name is Hirotsu Ryuurou, I'll be escorting you three to the boss."

This?

Was this the guy who'd be openly monitoring them?

Hirotsu, who seemed to realize their confused hope, quickly added.

"No, I'm not your actual escort. You'll have the pleasure of meeting them at the boss's office."

Wow.

Way to ruin everybody's day.

"Please, lead the way." Tim voiced.

Hirotsu nodded, turned on his heel and marched away. The three vigilantes followed close behind. Jason glanced around, confirming that its just the four of them here.

No bodyguards.

No extra help incase the trio desided to bolt or, attack.

This man was clearly an Ability user, of what kind? They had no hope of figuring out without him directly showing and telling them.

When they reached the car —a gleaming black car— Jason was ready to bawl his eyes out. Not only did he have fucking jetlag, his feet were sore, he was stuck wearing his gear for hours on end so he desperately needed a shower.

His throat was achingly dry, he heard his stomach growl four times already and to top it all off his backpack felt 20 times more heavy than it actually was.

It's a miracle the pits hadn't acted up, yet.

Dick and Jason sat by the windows while Tim had to sit in between them since he was smaller than them, he kept grumbling about unfairness but both ignored him cause he was small.

But that could be blamed on his age.

Hirotsu, thankfully didn't pay them much mind during the whole ride.

What a stand up guy.

Jason glanced outside when the car started slowing down. Five tall, black buildings in what appeared to be the center of Yokohama, the main building stood at the forefront of the other four, looking over the entire city.

Damn.

He didn't know crime payed that well.

Maybe it did, just not in Gotham.

He'd have to up his game, then.

Hirotsu parked the infront of the main building, not even turning off the engine he climbed out with the trio following after him.

Jason thanked god that night already was falling. Few people could be seen wondering about at this time.

They entered the main building, the receptionist didn't even glance their way as they made it to the elevator.

Rude.

Everything looked ridiculously fancier than necessary.

The entire time, Hirotsu never spoke a word. Perhaps Jason was wrong, maybe Hirotsu wasn't granddad coded.

He was in the Mafia, after all.

"Do remember not to antagonize the boss, or his Executives." The old gentleman warned.

"Of course, we're in your home after all." Tim acknowledged.

Hirotsu hummed, seemingly satisfied with that answer.

Jason was glad Tim had been doing the talking so far.

Hirotsu led them to the boss's office on the topmost floor. Large doors led up to it.

The elder man knocked softly three times, after a brief pause they heard a feint, "Enter."

Hirotsu didn't hesitate.

Inside, was a vast room with much empty space, whilst in the back the boss lined the walls with shelves of books and his desk and chair. The room could be well-lit by natural light thanks to the large windows but there were also automated shutters that encased the room in near-complete darkness.

Seriously, what's up with villains and their creepy lairs?

The boss sat comfortably on his chair that faced the windows. Sipping on what appeared to be tea whilst reading some documents on his lap.

Hirotsu bowed then left, closing the doors behind him.

Just like that.

Not a goodbye, good luck, goodnight, nothing.

Jason felt betrayed, somehow.

Which was stupid cause he barely knew the guy, but still.

The boss put down his teacup, standing from his chair and turned to them with a big smile.

Something about that smile felt off. Fake. Exaggerated. Wrong.

He could be considered a fairly tall man with straight, chin-length black hair slicked back.

He was dressed in a sharp black suit. Over this, he wore a black trench coat and long, almost knee-length maroon scarf he left hanging over his shoulders untied. He also had white gloves on.

His outfit could be summed up in one word, classic.

Or, villainy.

The three vigilantes stepped closer into the room. This time, Dick spoke in freaking awesome Japanese.

Seriously though, great work.

"Sorry for disturbing you, we'll try to capture the Joker and his cronies as fast as possible."

The boss smiled, his violet eyes twinkled barely contained excitement. Jason didn't like that look. Didn't like it one bit.

Neither did Tim nor Dick from the way they stiffened.

"Well let me introduce myself. My name's Mori Ougai, and I'm the boss of the Port Mafia."

Dick nodded, clearly feeling uneasy. "I'm Nightwing, this is Red Hood and Red Robin."

Introductions were short. Great. The sooner they finished, the sooner they could leave.

"Lovely to meet you three."

Fucking awful meeting you.

Can we move on, please?

"You're probably tired, your escorts shall arrive shortly for a brief introduction before they show you to your new temporary dorm rooms." Mori explained.

Thank fuck.

Jason was ready for long nap.

"While we wait, I'll explain some rules you'll have to follow whilst you're here."

Oh fuck off.

Mori continued. "While you're here, refrain from making a spectacle of yourselves. Don't try to outmaneuver your escorts, the government has entrusted me with monitoring your activity, if you avade them I'll have to report to them and they will lock you out of the city."

Footsteps could be heard outside, along with a very colorful exchange between two male voices.

Mori smiled brightly. Still wrong.

"Here they come now."

The doors burst open, revealing two ... boys? Jason froze, as did Tim and Dick.

"Mori-san! Chuuya's being mean to mee!"

The taller one who was wearing a black formal suit with a huge black trench coat that reached his knees was covered in bandages. His right eye was bandaged, along with his arms and neck.

Jason bet his torso and legs were bandaged too.

He had thick wavy brown hair, and dark brown eyes. He was lanky.

So, so many bandages.

The shorter one wore a black hat with a dark maroon button-up overlaid with a black vest, gloves covered his hands, but Jason could make out faded scattered scars where the fabric didn't reach.

The choker was an interesting fashion choice, along with the expensive looking hat covering his striking orange hair. The shin-high platformed boots didn’t do much to affect his height.

These boys...

What happened to them?

Green was tinting his vision. He had to calm down. He couldn't lose control over this. Tim squeezed his in silent comfort as the two boys completely ignored them as they approached Mori.

"Shut up! Shitty Mackerel." The shorter one growled.

Bandages gasped dramatically.

He turned to Mori all teary eyed.

"Ne, Mori-san my doggy is mean to his master!" He whined.

"I'm not your dog! You walking bag of bandages!" The orange haired boy cursed.

Mori sighed. "Boys."

Both of them straightened. Jason clenched his fist.

He didn't like that.

"How did your mission go?" Mori inquired, almost innocently.

"It went perfect, I'm so tired from all the hard work i had to do I could just die."

The ginger scoffed.

"What hard work!? I did all the work whilst you just whined and watched with that stupid smile on your face!"

"I planned the operation, chibi. Silly dog, questioning it's master."

"Stop calling me that! I'm not your damned dog!!"

"But you are! Disobedient one at that."

"I'll fucking kill you, I swear!"

Gasp.

"You promise!?"

"Enough." The Mafia boss ordered.

The duo quieted down. The brunette stuck his tongue out to the ginger. To which said ginger just rolled his eyes in annoyance.

"I have a new mission for you two."

The brunette visibly deflated, groaned in fake anguish. But his boss ignored him. The shorter boy stood in attention.

"These three vigilantes are here to catch a clown and his goons. You two will be their escorts. Understood?"

The boys mumbled their understanding, apparently not thrilled about this ordeal, the ginger was more subtle.

Their boss just sighed.

"Introduce yourselves."

The brunette folded his arms and pouted for a good three seconds before finally speaking up.

"I'm Dazai Osamu."

The ginger huffed.

"Nakahara Chuuya. Just call me Chuuya."

Mori looked rather proud of thier introductions, something told Jason that these boys had usually presented themselves in a more chaotic manner.

Dick tried to smile reassuringly. "I'm Nightwing, Red Hood, and Red Robin." Pointing towards Tim. The third Robin gave half hearted smile.

"Dazai-kun, could you and Chuuya-kun please escort them to their new rooms?"

Mori handed Dazai the document he still held. Dazai scanned the contents before folding it, storing it in his breast pocket. He nodded, not deigning his boss with a response.

Chuuya glared at his partner, bowing at Mori.

Dazai snorted. An eerily fimilar if not more disturbing smile appeared on his face, stretching impossibly wide.

Wrong.

Wrong.

"This ought to be fun."

Something was utterly wrong with both Mori and Dazai.