“I’m just saying, there are crucial superhero checkmarks that I haven’t hit!” Duke complains for the hundredth time.

Cass tilts a silent head in confusion and Tim chuckles, sharing an exasperated look with Jason.

“Superhero checkmarks aren’t a thing, Duke.” Steph replies.

“They are!” Duke protests.

“I know I’m going to regret asking this but what are these checkmarks?” Jason asks.

The group groans and Duke waves them off. “Shut up, it’s a good question! The superhero trope has essential parts. Animal sidekicks, super friends, love interest.”

“Love interest?” Jason mocks.

“Yes love interest! The Dinah to my Ollie, Lois to my Clark, hell even Tim has Bernard!” Duke grumbles and Tim just shrugs with a smug smile, “I’m never gonna find it!”

“Well keep whining about it, that turns girls on.” Jason teases.

Duke is still pouting when the team gets called in for help by the GCPD in response to a mysterious explosion at a local school. They all spring in to action and he follows suit, even if his mind is slightly distracted. A fire blazes out the window and he doesn’t think much of it until he hears someone coughing from inside.

“Someone’s in there!” He shouts and waves over some cops before dashing towards the burning, crumbling building.

“Down here! Jump! I’ve got you!” He calls up. He can see the fear and uncertainty on the person’s face but it’s not like they have much of a choice. They crawl their way to a free window and with a leap of faith they jump, landing safely in his arms and looking right in his eyes.

“Looks like Signal’s found his love interest.” Jason mutters.