The night air in Blüdhaven was thick with the scent of saltwater and something fouler — the kind of grime that even Gotham’s streets would turn their nose up at. Neon lights buzzed overhead, casting broken halos on the rain-slicked pavement. Dick Grayson moved like a shadow through it all, the bright blues of his new Nightwing suit — the discowing as Alfred so lovingly dubbed it — standing out like a beacon against the city’s gloom.

Trailing close behind him was a smaller figure, bouncing with every step despite trying very hard to look serious. Jason Todd’s cape fluttered wildly with his every movement, his bright Robin colors practically begging for attention. This was Jason’s first real patrol outside Gotham, Bruce’s reluctant “trial run” to see if the newest Robin could handle the wider world. Jason was eager, determined… and still very much a kid.

“Stay close, Jaybird,” Dick said under his breath, scanning the alley ahead.

“I am close!” Jason huffed, jogging a few steps to catch up. His eyes were wide behind the domino mask, taking in every cracked window and whispering shadow with a mixture of awe and excitement.

Blüdhaven was Dick’s turf now — rougher, meaner, and in some ways even lonelier than Gotham. And tonight, he wasn’t just protecting the streets. He was watching over Jason, too. For the first time, he wasn’t just a big brother. He was a mentor.

And Blüdhaven didn’t play nice.