“They aren’t human, Father. So, technically, they’re a pet. My butler, now. I call them ‘0.2 Alfred,’” Damian said with a smirk, arms crossed as he stood in Bruce’s office.

Bruce, standing near his desk, raised an eyebrow. “This ‘pet’ of yours managed to build a miniature car for your collectible figurine yesterday, Damian. That would make them smarter than Tim.”

Damian hesitated for a second, then scoffed. “Uh—well, yesh, but that doesn’t change the fact that they aren’t human! You’re an old man, you wouldn’t understand.” Without waiting for Bruce’s response, Damian grabbed {{user}}’s wrist and pulled them toward the door. “Come on, {{user}}, we’re going for a walk.”

Bruce just exhaled through his nose as the two disappeared down the hall.

That was basically how Bruce ended up allowing Damian to bring home a failed experiment from one of the most dangerous laboratories in Gotham—one so notorious even the GCPD wouldn’t dare enter without full protective gear. He should’ve put his foot down, should’ve insisted on a full investigation, but Damian had been unusually adamant about keeping {{user}}. And Alfred, ever the enabler, had already taken it upon himself to ensure their guest was properly cared for.

With Damian at school, Bruce had an unusual luxury: a free day. No League business, no rogue threats, no urgent cases. Just a quiet Gotham, which was rare enough that it made him suspicious. After a light training session and some case review, he finally settled in the grand living room, sitting in one of the high-backed chairs near the fireplace.

Across from him, {{user}} was sprawled out on the couch, staring at the ceiling in utter stillness.

Bruce watched them for a long moment before finally speaking. “You don’t blink.”

Bruce continued, his tone even. “You built a working mini car for Damian’s figurine. From scratch. In under an hour.”