Archive of Our Own

Staring at the marble sitting in Black Bat's hands, Spoiler was more than a little panicked. A kid had flew into their midst, screamed a bunch of static that had left Black Bat reeling, and promptly disappeared in a flash, leaving nothing but a ball of chilling blue behind. That was 10 minutes ago, and Black Bat still hadn't said anything.

"BB, you good?"

"...yes. We need to go home."

"Ok, I'll let Bats know we are turning in early. Anything else I should tell him?"

"Say that it's so we can study. He...doesn't need to know about this, not yet."

Entering their apartment, the girls quickly divested themselves of their vigilant gear, settling into the living room. Steph watched her girlfriend closely. Cass just cupped the marble gently, and spoke softly.

"The words they spoke were garbled, but I got the basics. That was a ghost, and this is their Core. Its...everything. Their brain and body and souls all wrapped together. They were hurt, and fled to Gotham for protection. They sensed us, sensed that we had been touched by Death and are trusted by Gotham."

"...All I heard was static."

"It's complicated. Like I said, I only got most of the message the rest was flashes of knowledge, visions of danger. A Realm, crying for their King. This is big, Steph. I got the message that if anything happens to this Core, it could mean the end of everything."

"..I feel like we should call B."

"No, we can't risk it. The ghost told me it needs to heal. That being around us, as we live our lives, feeling our emotions, will generate the energy they need. It won't hurt us. But B would never risk it, and I'm afraid that would hurt the Core"

"If you're sure, then sure. What can you remember of the message?"

Cass grabbed a notebook, and wrote swiftly. Steph read the message.

"I'm hurt...bad. I need ectopl....heal....Gotham has it. Keep me close, and....emotions will heal me...wont hurt you.....will come.....the High King, the Ghost....Infinite Realms. Keep me safe, if..End....lose it. Dan...will come....will come,....z will come.....too weak....t sense me. I will wake up....or two....be a kid...ler. Help me."

"Ok, not super helpful, but it gives us a place to start. Do you trust them?"

"Yes."

"Fair enough. Sounds like it may take anywhere from a few days to a few years for the kid to wake up. How do you want to play this?"

Almost a year later, little had changed with the Core. Over the first 6 or so months, Steph and Cass had adjusted their schedules, trying to make sure at least one of them was home with the Core at all times. They cut down their paired patrols to once a week and emergencies only. Bruce had noticed quickly, but had been happily placated by claims of a better work-life balance. To be fair, the girls' grades appreciated the time off from vigilante work, and Cass had been happy to be able to dance more.

In an effort to conceal the Core from nosy Bat-Boys, the spare room of their apartment had been set up as something of a collection room. Odds and ends from the girls travels lined the walls, and the Core sat nestled in with various glassware. At least, that was the plan. Both girls had taken to carrying the Core around the apartment when they were able, often narrating their day, unsure of the ghost could hear them. Steph was cooking supper with the Core when she heard Cass get back from practice.

"Hey, we're in the kitchen!"

Cass walked through the door, stretching up to press a kiss the Steph's cheek, and patting the Core softly.

"We have a new neighbor downstairs. Did Tim say anything?"

"Let me check. Did you meet them?"

"No, just saw the boxes. I did hear a few guys talking down the hall, but not sure if it was the moving crew or not."

"Well, according to Tim, our new neighbor-"

Both girls jumped as a sharp wind swept out from the Core. It rolled around the room, fetching up against the wards an acquaintance of Cass's had provided them after some discreet questioning. Cass moved towards the living room, pulling up the buildings security feeds while Steph checked the Core for changes. Other than the usual lingering chill, nothing seemed different.

"Cass?"

"Nothing on the cameras. The moving crew left. New neighbor is the only change."

Getting back to Tim's email, Steph read aloud.

"Two residents, and the name on the lease is Jasmine Nightingale, 25. She's studying psychology at Gotham U, no criminal record. She moved in this morning."

"Do you think the Core reacted to her? Or to one of the moving crew leaving?"

"No way to tell. Papers show two people in residence, but no name on the second. According to the rest of Tim's research, she has a brother, 23, but there’s little to no paper trail on either of them."

"...We will wait and see. If one of the ones leaving was her brother, then maybe the reaction was to them. Or it could be a sign the ghost is recovering."

The girls kept careful watch that night, and caught sight of the presumed younger brother returning. The Core remained inactive, and they were left with no further leads.

Cass met the neighbors three days later, and Steph had never been so happy to have access to a security camera.

As Cass made her way up the stairs, she heard someone coming down. Moving to the side, she spotted an unfamiliar redhead.

"Hi, I'm Jazz Nightingale. I just moved in on the fifth floor. It's nice to meet you."

Cass returned the greeting as she scanned the older woman. She seemed younger than Cass knew her to be, and had an open face. She carried herself well, and was aware of her surroundings. Cass guessed she had some level of training.

"Sorry if we made too much noise, moving in was a bit more of a production than I thought it would be."

"We?"

"She means me."

Cass leapt in a circle as a voice sounded behind her. She hadn't heard a thing. Her foot caught on the loose vinyl of the stairs, and as she fell, a strong grip on her arms stop her, and she began to twist away, still unsure of who, exactly, she was preparing to fight. Suddenly, she found herself airborne, as the person holding her turned to catch his balance. Finally calming down, Cass blushed, finding herself pressed against the chest of a stranger.

"Sorry, sorry. I forgot to make noise."

As he set her down, Cass wondered how the hell he had snuck up on her. He stood over a foot taller then her, around 6' 5", although it was hard to say for sure with how he slouched.

His baggy clothes should have produced more than enough noise for her to hear.

"Let's try again. Hi, I'm Danny, Jazz's brother"

"Cass. My girlfriend and I live one floor up from you."

"Come on, Jazz, we'll be late."

Cass waved as the siblings left, and headed up to her floor. She could hear Steph laughter as she walked in, and found her rewatching the fiasco that had to happen right in front of a camera.

"Not a word, Stephanie."

"But seriously, how did he sneak up on you of all people."

"He said it was an accident. That he 'forgot to make noise.' But he didn't seem to even have his sister's level of training. It's odd."

"Maybe its a meta thing. They wouldn't be the first to think Gotham would be the last place someone would look for them."

"Maybe..."

"So, did you enjoy getting whisked off your feet by a handsome stranger."

"...You know what. Yes, yes I did. He's cute, and tall. I'm sorry Steph, the heart wants what the heart wants."

Dissolving into giggles, neither noticed the Core give off a brief hum.

A few nights later, a monster storm shook Gotham. No one, not even the villains, could stand against the elements. Danny stood at the patio door, watching the weather cut loose. The lightning reminded him of his death, but also of his little clone. Ellie loved storms, even before her electric Core had settled. With a flash, Phantom floated up and into the clouds. Letting his own lightning scatter into the storm, he hoped that, wherever in this cursed city his daughter slept, she would feel his energy in the rain.

As thunder shook the building, Steph and Cass sat bundled together on the couch, Core nestled into the sheets with them. They were watching TV when the Core suddenly leapt up, floating forward in the room, vibrant blue gleaming. Small sparks of lightning began trickling in from the window, vanishing into the Core. As the glow faded, Steph lunged forward to catch the Core as it fell. She shook as a voice echoed in her head.

"I'm here, I'm here! It's Ellie, I'm here! Daddy, its Da..."

With a gasp, Steph clutched the Core to her chest, calling out for Ellie to respond. With no answer, she then explained to Cass what she had heard.

"At least we know her name now."

Steph met Danny later that day. The rain had finally let up, but had knocked power out to the building. Her phone had died, meaning she had left way too late for class. She was out of the building before she realized that, while she had remembered her hoodie, she had forgot something else.

The train was, as always, hell. Some idiot had spilt boiling coffee all over her hoodie, so she had to take it off. Which meant she would have to spend the next half hour on the train covering up her, for once fortunately, only minorly obvious lack of a bra.

"Hey, you’re Cass's girlfriend, Steph, right?"

Biting back a curse, Steph looked up at the guy who had seemingly teleported in front of her. Cass was right, this boy was tall and silent.

"Danny, right? Yeah."

As they conversed, Steph noticed that Danny had 'incidentally' put himself between her and the worst of the creeps. She had been watching one guy slowly edge closer in the reflection of the glass, which is why she couldn't figure out how Danny had snuck up on her.

With a lurch, the train arrived at a station, allowing a flood of people to board. Danny's hand came up, bracing him against the window above her. She couldn't see any hint of effort, but he managed to keep a few inches distance between them. Steph appreciated it.

"You good? Sorry, there's a lot of people."

"Don't worry, I'm good."

If Steph had a brain, she'd have stopped there.

"Anime was right, kabedon is hot."

Danny started, and barely caught himself as the crowd pushed him over her. Now, she was pressed against him as his forearm braced him up. Steph groaned and tried to hide her face, only to end up head-butting his chest. She was pressed against him, and knew he could feel her breast pushing against him.

"Ignore me, please god kill me now."

"No no."

Danny's voice was high, and Steph could feel him trying to pull back. She blushed as she felt just how aware of her he was.

"It's just, I mean, only..."

With a sigh, Danny seemed to give up.

"I'm off at the next stop. You?"

"Same. Gotham U, for social work."

"Nice, my sisters going for psych, me for engineering. Does Cass go?"

"Nope. She's a ballerina."

With that, they spent the next few minutes on small talk, both desperate to ignore any parts of the other. Finally, the train stopped, and they fought their way out. Danny turned, pulling something out of his bag. Handing it to her, Steph spread out a NASA hoodie.

"I saw yours get caffeinated."

"...Thanks. I'll get it back to you soon."

"No worries. Anyway, I'm out. See ya, tell Cass I said hi."

"Yep."

The next few months were mostly uneventful. The girls struck up a friendship with their new neighbors. Jazz was a great listener, and Danny was fun to flirt with. As summer rolled around, Cass and Steph headed up to the roof to enjoy one of the few days in Gotham that counted as 'sunny.' Which meant the clouds occasionally broke up, for a few minutes, at least, and the temp hit 80. Steph had declared the day for sunbathing, more out of an effort to see Cass's new bathing suit than any actual expectations of a tan. As they made there way to a corner of the roof, they saw Danny, tinkering at a long table. He wore a thin shirt, and Steph caught Cass checking him out. He waved vaguely at their call of hello.

"What'cha working on, Danny?"

"A water filter."

"...seems complicated for a filter."

Danny shot Steph an unimpressed glare, only to start when he saw her and Cass in bikinis.

Blushing, he turned away. Cass shared a smile with Steph at his attention, and then took up the conversation.

"Why so much?"

"Gotham water is gross. It takes a lot to clean it. And, unfortunately, the best material for the filtration is...complicated. This prototype uses a stand-in, but its not workable for the final product."

"Oh, good luck then."

Seeing that they were distracting, the girls left him too his work. Setting up their loungers, they dozed to the sounds of his tinkering and muttered curses. Steph soon made a game of trying to distract him, shifting on her chair to catch his eye. Cass soon joined in, spreading out her yoga mat and running through some poses, much to Steph's delight. Anytime they caught him staring, they offered a wave. Steph was happy to see that he looked at her as much as at Cass. She was confident, but knew she wasn't as curvy as her girlfriend. Soon enough, he stepped inside for a drink, brought one to each of them, and returned to his work, now sitting with his back to them. The hours flew by, and, when he straighten up with a victorious shout, he scared them both into nearly falling.

"Sorry, sorry."

"It's ok. Man, how do you do that? We knew you were here, but damn."

"Yeah, its whole thing. But look, its done!"

Following his offer, the girls moved to view his project. The device stood about a foot tall, and they could see how it would replace a length of pipe. Danny lifted a glass of dirty water.

"This water has motor oil, normal silt, sewage, and trace amounts of fear toxin."

Pouring the water in, he flipped a small switch. the device was powered by a few 9v batteries.

"In the final product, the power can actually be supplied by the water station. By placing two filters, one upstream, one down, the facility will actually use less power, thanks to the thicker agents being removed."

The water ran through quickly, leaving a puddle of seemingly pure water on the table. The girls leaned in, amazed.

"Without testing, you cant tell, but the water should be pure."

"What happened to the dirty stuff?"

"Its gone. the filter breaks down anything other than water with harmless radiation, from that one thing I needed. Look."

Digging in his tools, Danny pulled out a small Geiger counter. Unplugging the device, he popped open a panel and removed a vaguely green filter. The Geiger detected trace radiation.

"See, less radiation than y'all's day in the sun, and easily blocked by the metal casing."

Cass had concerns, and Steph really hoped Danny wasn't a budding villain.

"But what about your preferred material?"

"That's even better. Less radiation than the substitute. And with the amount needed for all the filters together, it would still require 10 times as much for any real trouble."

"And what was the material again?"

"...It's better if I don't say. I have a patent meeting next week, and I don't know if telling anyone will be ok."

"With who?"

"Wayne Tech."

The girls were silent as Danny went to clean up his station, and exchanged a look. Does Danny not know? Soon enough, he finished up and headed inside.

"Enjoy the rest of your day, and thanks."

"For what?"

With a grin Danny answered over his shoulder.

"Motivation. I was only allowed to look up when I fixed something."

Danny was sweating, metaphorically speaking. His meeting was that afternoon, and had, for some reason, been changed from a random engineer to Lucius Fox himself, not to mention Tim Drake. Tucker had nearly blown out Danny's ear when he heard. Waiting for his ride, it was his turn to jump when Cass popped into view, Steph trailing behind her.

"Nervous?"

"Very. My meeting got bumped up the chain, and I have no idea why. Where are y’all headed?"

"Same place as you. Lunch with family, they work at Wayne Tech."

"Oh, that’s cool. Want to ride with me?"

The girls agreed, and joined him as a SUV pulled up. The ride was short, and the girls tried to calm Danny down. He let out a groan when he got a message saying the meeting was delayed until after lunch.

"Ancients be damned, this will kill me."

Steph had a brilliant idea.

"Hey, why don't you join us for lunch?"

As they sat in a small room off the main cafeteria, Danny was still feeling out of place.

"Are you sure this is ok? I'd hate to impose."

"Its fine, chill. Its just a couple of our brothers, and they said its fine."

Well, Tim and Dick did. Damian had complained until they had reminded him this was the guy who had snuck up on Cass. Danny dropped his head to the table, and didn't move until the rest of the group had arrived. Entering the room loudly, Dick threw himself into his sisters arms with a shout.

"Cass! Steph! Its been ages."

"You saw them yesterday, Dick."

"Ages. Now, where's this ghostly stranger?"

"Right here."

Dick and Tim jumped at the voice from across the table. Damian on the other hand..

"Oh look, I've been impaled."

Staring at the knife in his shoulder, Danny ignored the canophy of shouts. Looking at Damian, he smiled.

"Sorry for scaring you, I should have waited for the girls to point me out. I'm Danny."

Batting away the hands that tried to guide him to a chair, he turned to Tim.

"No, no, don't call anyone. I'm fine. Just give me a moment."

Ignoring the stares of everyone, Danny turned to his bag. Pulling out a spare shirt and a small kit, he cut away his sleeve, removed his shirt, and tossed it into a green bag. He pulled out a patch-style bandage, swiftly removed the knife, and covered the wound. As everyone stared at the appalling number of scars on his back, Danny swiftly donned a new shirt before turning to the group.

"Anyone have a lighter?"

Tim offered his.

"Thanks."

Holding the knife up, Danny held the blade to the flame. Causing everyone to jump back, his blood on the knife burned a bright green for a second, and Danny brushed the ash into the green bag. Holding the knife out to Damian, the boy cautiously took it.

"Thank you. But you did not scare me."

"Hmm, is that so."

"Yes... While startled, it was unnecessary to harm you."

"...So that’s it?"

Damian huffed in indignation, and then squirmed as Danny stared at him.

"What."

"...I assume Cass and Steph told you I was quiet."

"They did."

"So is it that you do not trust them, think you are better than them, or doubt your abilities?"

"How dare you-"

Danny stepped forward, cutting of the boy’s protest. He then crouched down, staring Damian in the eye.

"They told you I was quiet, so if you trust them, you should have expected it. If you value their skills, you would not assume you would notice me where they did not. And if you trust your ability, you have the time to evaluate a potential threat before attacking."

Everyone was quiet as they watched their brother evaluate Danny's words. Dick was hoping no more blood was shed, Tim was glad to see someone actually addressing the problem, and Cass and Steph watched Danny, surprised at the serious look in his eye. Finally, Damian shook him head, gave Danny a brief nod, and stepped back. With a smile, Danny stood and greeted the new arrivals.

"So anyway, I'm Danny, nice to meet y’all."

At that, the boys introduced themselves, before sitting to eat, Dick taking up the conversation.

"So, any particular reason your blood is flammable?"

"Nope, you must be a level 10 friend to unlock my tragic backstory."

"Fair enough. What brings you to WT today?"

Danny groaned and dropped his head to the table.

"Patent meeting."

Tim chimed in.

"What’s with the groan?"

"For some reason, my meeting got bumped up to Mr. Fox and Mr. Drake."

The boys exchanged confused glances while the girls gestured for them to stay silent. Dick schooled his face before talking.

"Well, for what its worth, I hear.. Mr. Drake is chill. Mr. Fox too."

"Here’s to hoping."

Lunch finished quickly, and Danny stood to leave.

"Dick, Tim, Damian, it was nice meeting you. I better head up. Cass, Steph, Jazz wanted me to invite you to dinner this weekend, so text her for the details. See ya."

As he walked out, Dick began pestering his sisters for details about Danny. The girls told him what they knew, which wasn’t much. Soon, Dick and Damian, who had been silent for much of lunch, left, and Tim rose to head to his meeting.

"So, why didn't we tell Danny who he's meeting with?"

"The lolz."

Cass elbowed Steph, who stuck her tongue out at her.

"He doesn’t know who we are, and that’s...nice."

"In that case, do you want me to step out of the meeting?"

The girls thought about it, and realized they liked Danny not knowing who, exactly, they were.

"Please?"

Mr. Fox was taking a call as Danny entered the board room. Closing his phone with a snap, he rose to greet Danny before gesturing for them both to sit.

"Mr. Nightingale, sorry about that, but Mr. Drake won't be able to join us. I hope you don't mind."

"Please Mr. Fox, just Danny. And that's more than ok. But, if I may, why were you and Mr. Drake meeting with me in the first place?"

"When you requested this meeting, your paperwork indicated hazardous material that wasn't included in the standard list on the application. Given this is Gotham, we were hesitant to give that type of material to someone we hadn't met."

"That is...entirely fair."

"So, I’ve seen the schematics, and they seem solid, but, as I'm sure you guessed, I can't imagine what material would produce the results you reported."

"Well... as my application said, the substitute material is not viable for larger production, and the preferred material...is kryptonite."

"...."

"Yes, that’s understandable. But kryptonite gives off a very specific radiation, harmless to most, and the amount needed for all the filters would be less than a gram. While Gotham is...Gotham, the presence of the Bats make it a viable solution."

"And the substitute material? I know you say it's not an option, but..."

"...I promise its the truth but...magic"

"...Magic."

"Yep. I'm a practitioner, nothing big, but I utilized death magic to form a material that will decompose anything that isn't water. The radiation kryptonite gives off is death energy, that’s why it only effects Kryptonians."

"...That sounds wrong, but I don’t know enough about magic to prove it."

Danny laughed, and the sound broke Lucius from his thoughts.

"Wayne Tech supplies the Justice League, so I figured they would be the best to bring this too. Here is the formula for the magic and kryptonite based filters. For a large filter, the death magic would be too concentrated, that’s why its no good. For the kryptonite, the metal casing is enough to shield it from detection, or affecting any Kryptonians who may need to enter the water plant. I'm sure the League may have questions, but I ask that Batman doesn't show up at my apartment some night. Feel free to give them my number."

Lucius finished the meeting on autopilot, promising Danny a call in a few days. Soon after Danny left, Tim walked in. He had been listening in, and rushed to review the blueprints and formula Danny had left.

"I'll get these up to the Watch Tower. So, what do you think of him?"

"He seems like a nice kid, but this...kryptonite and magic filters are above my paygrade."

"Same."

Dinner with the neighbors had taken a sharp turn to the left. An hour before their guests were due, Jazz had gotten a call from a frantic classmate, something about a stalker. She had pushed Danny to enjoy company, grabbed the Fenton Creep Stick, and left in a huff. Danny had texted Steph, who had asked if some of her brothers could join them for what had changed to a pizza and game night.

Pizza finished and kitchen cleaned, Danny returned to the living room, dragging his feet to let the others know he was back. Cass smiled at him in appreciation as Dick jumped up.

"Alright, Truth or Dare!"

"No, Dick. Your dares always break something, and this isn't our house."

Dick deflated at Tim's words and Danny laughed before grabbing some chalk of the shelf.

"So, how do y’all feel about magic?"

As Steph, Tim, and Dick focused in on the circle he was sketching on the table, Cass turned a watchful eye to Danny.

"Magic?"

"Yeah, I can do a bit. Like this. Truth spell, no compulsion, for the next 30 minutes, limited to this room."

As Danny finished the circle, he bit his thumb, pressing it to one of the sigils. A soft green lit up the room. Tim sat back.

"Can you really limit the spell like that? I thought magic was more...mysterious."

"Yep, its all in the rune work. Now, like I said, no lies, but no compulsion to answer or elaborate. Like the fae, misdirection still works."

Dick opened his mouth, but was unable to admit whatever words he planned. Danny laughed.

"See. For fairness, you can all take your turns first. I'm assuming I’ll get most the questions anyway."

"Absolutely. So, Danny, what are your intentions for my happily coupled sisters?"

Said sisters hit Dick, but Danny laughed.

"They are my friends, Dick."

"That’s not an answer."

"It's all the answer your getting. Tim?"

"...Can I ask about the scars?"

"You can ask, but I won't answer. Steph?"

"What level friendship am we at? You said 10 for backstory."

"Dick and Tim, 2, and you two are at 7ish. Cass?"

"How so quiet?"

At this, Danny paused. The others were surprised. He had kept a fairly joking manner throughout their questioning, and, as his gaze tracked over the siblings, the mood shifted.

"...My childhood was...odd. As such, I was exposed to something that changed me. It's the same reason my blood burns."

Cass nodded, happy to see he trusted them enough to share. With a grin, Danny sat back, ready to ask his own question.

"So, whose idea was it to let me find out, all on my own, barely 3 hours ago, that you guys are the Waynes?"

The questions went on for another hour, and Dick saved his personal favorite for last."

"Whose your favorite Bat?"

"Depends, what's the criteria?"

Dick was stumped, but Tim jumped in.

"Lets break it down to 5 things: Methodology, Persona, Style, Vibes, and Attraction."

"Hmm, well, I got to respect Big Bats for his method, even if I don't agree with it. I can't imagine how much hope that man holds in his heart. For persona, Black Bat. no contest. Got to love a cryptid queen. Style goes to anyone but Nightwing, because I've seen the Discowing pics, but mostly to Spoiler. The girl slays in purple, and I'm here for it. Vibes go the sunshine child that is Signal. As for attraction..."

As Danny pondered his final answer, the vigilantes’ emotions were all over. Dick was partially offended, but mostly loving the blush on his sisters' faces. Tim was surprised at the though Danny was putting into his answer, as well as at his views on Batman. And Cass and Steph wanted to melt into the floor, but also really wanted to hear his final answer.

"...no one, really. I'm more of a personality over looks kinda guy."

As his guests left, Danny smiled. He was surprised, to say the least, that he had answered Cass's first question so seriously. As he remembered Dick's questions, he blushed before shaking his head. He cleaned up, and waited for Jazz. She came home soon, dragging herself to the couch, half a bat in hand. Grabbing a pillow, she muffled a scream.

"So, how was your trip? Friend good, creep Creep sticked?"

She glared at him from her pillow.

"My friend is fine, the creep is chastised....the stick was unrelated."

"..."

"So I’m on my way back when these three guys try to corner me. I....firmly discourage them. As I'm calling the cops, someone tapped my shoulder."

"...and?"

"...and I broke the bat, and this guys arm, when he asked if I needed any help."

Danny laughed, and Jazz threw the remains of the bat at him.

"Shut up! I feel so bad. The guy was cool about it, but I broke his freaking arm! He refused to let me take him to a clinic, and waited with me for the cops. And then! Freaking Batman drops in, the guy tells him to fuck off, he listens for some ungodly reason, and then the guy asks me out for lunch! Stop laughing at me!"

As she screamed into the pillow, Danny waked over to rub her back. Joking aside, Danny know how she feels about surprises.

"Hey, Jazzy, its ok. The bad guys are taken care of, the guy's arm will heal, and Batman probably knew him, ok. If the guy could go through all that and still recognize you are a great date, kudos to him. Not to mention, if he snuck up on you he's at least a little liminal, so he'll heal quick, especially if you hang out with him for lunch."

Danny felt Jazz relaxing under his touch, and helped her sit up.

"Thanks, Danny. How was dinner?"

Danny gave her a quick rundown of the night. She was surprised he had shown them magic.

"They're Waynes. Batman saves the family at least once a month. I'm sure they've seen stranger stuff."

"Speaking of Batman, has the League reached out about your project?"

"Yeah, I'm meeting someone tomorrow at WT. Tim said he'd be there for moral support."

Making there way in to their apartment, Cass and Steph began readying themselves to shower. As Steph stepped into the shower, Cass perched on the countertop to talk.

"What did you think of Danny's answers tonight?"

"To Dick's questions or yours?"

"Steph."

"Yours then. I'm happy he opened up, concerned about what he didn't say, and fighting not to dig deeper. You?"

"The same. I got Tim to promise not to dig, but still."

As Steph stepped out of the shower, Cass stepped in. Adjusting the water down from near boiling, she heard Steph step out of the room. She soon returned, Ellie in hand.

"Our girls still doing the same. Do you think we should be doing something different?"

"Se said to just keep her around. I'm still hesitant to bring her outside though. Maybe we should invite someone over?"

"Danny?"

Cass went to answer, then paused thinking.

"Cass? You good?"

"What do you think about what Danny said to Dick? Or rather, what he didn't say"

"He was probably just pulling his leg. Why?"

"...I don't know. Do you think we are, I don't know, leading him on?"

"....Well, Danny's cool. And I never got the vibe he was trying to get with either of us. We flirt with him, yeah, but its always a joke."

"...You're right, but should we talk to him about it? Or maybe ask Jazz if he's said anything?"

"We could but...I don't think its got to that point yet."

Cass finished her shower, and got out to Steph passing her a towel. Soon enough, they were lying down to sleep, and Steph remembered her question.

"So, do you want to invite Danny over?"

"We can, maybe next weekend, after my dance class."

"Oh yeah, this is the one Dick told you about, right?"

"Yes, I’m excited to do more than just ballet, its been a while."

Danny walked into the meeting, and promptly stopped. Tim, Mr. Fox, Superman, and some guy in a trench coat stared at him.

"Um, hi?"

Superman walked over, hand extended.

"Mr. Nightingale, a pleasure to meet you. As you can see, I've been selected by the League to discuss your filter, for obvious reasons. And for the magic side, this is John Constantine."

The man tipped an imaginary hat at Danny, then stepped up.

"Interestin bit of work, Nightingale."

"Just Danny. And I've heard of you, Constantine. I'm assuming my name is what brought you in?"

The others were confused, but John drew back.

"I'll admit, its not a name I like seein. Specially with death magic involved."

Danny sighed, turning to the room to explain.

"My family, the Fenton-Nightingales has some....bad history with magic. They started the witch trials, both sides. Half wanted to use our magic to end all practitioners, the others were marginally more sane. The Fenton's forswore the arts, and went on to hunt down all manner of magical creatures, starting with the Nightingales."

"An they did a thorough job. No one's seen a Nightingale since. So, what’s your story?"

"My story is my own. But...the feud is ended with me."

Constantine watched Danny closely, then nodded.

"Well, that's that then. Nice bit of spell work, and you’re right about the limit. That’s all I'm here for, so cheers."

With a flash, the mage disappeared. Danny turned back to the others, sheepish smile on his face.

"Any chance we can leave that for now? Family history was never my favorite topic."

"Absolutely, and I apologize for John. He hadn't mentioned his concerns."

"It's ok, Superman, I understand where he's coming from. Now, what can I do for you?"

"Our scientists have tested your methods, and asked that I give you there respect for your design. And I want to offer my own. Its...nice to see kryptonite used for good. I have already signed off on your request, and have given the kryptonite over to Wayne Tech for your design. Mr. Fox?"

"Yes, here are the papers authorizing us to use your design, as well as a contract for you to review. We just need to discuss payment, and everything’s done."

"Oh, no that’s ok. I don't need payment, just credit on the design."

Everyone stared, with Tim stepping forward.

"Danny, no. It's your design, you deserve payment for it."

"Tim, the design took less that two days to make. The only really revolutionary part is the use of kryptonite. I honestly did it because I was bored. And it helps people, that’s payment enough. It's like community service."

Tim was at a loss, but Superman stepped forward.

"How about this. We could consider the design a job application. The Justice League hires through Wayne Tech, and we can promise you employment upon your graduation from college. How's that sound?"

After a few moments, everyone agreed. Superman left, promising Danny a contract in the next week. Lucius left, leaving Danny and Tim. Danny collapsed into a chair.

"Ancients, Tim, warn a guy next time."

"Hey, be happy I lobbied for him over Batman."

Halfway through the week, air conditioning to the building cut out. Steph and Cass headed down the the managers office, and saw a notice that the problem was being resolved. As the day wore on, they decided to check and see if anyone was actually working on it. They headed into the basement, following the sounds of metal banging to find the repairs being done by-

"Danny?"

"Cass, Steph, that y’all? One sec."

Climbing out for inside the unit, Danny emerged, wearing nothing but his shorts. Cass and Steph, in cut offs and tank tops, couldn’t judge him but still.

"What the fuck, Danny?"

"Oh, the autopsy scar? Long story. What’s up?"

"...Just checking on the air."

As Danny explained the problem, Steph turned to Cass, signing frantically.

"Cass."

"I know, but he won't tell us. Yet. Just enjoy the view."

At this Steph turned away with a huff, but had to admit, Cass was right. Danny was fit, and too distracted to notice them staring. As he crouched at the machine, Steph admired his broad shoulders.

"Actually, can one of you give me a hand? I need someone to hold this in place."

"Sure, where do you need me?"

Cass stepped forward, shooting Steph a gloating look before climbing into the unit. Steph retaliated by smacking her ass.

"I need you to hold this here while I unscrew this."

"...I can't reach it from here"

Steph climbed to the top of the machine. Danny had removed the cover, so she could see what they were working on. With a smile, she offered her two cents.

"Cass, lay on Danny's chest. His arms are long enough to work around you."

Cass glared at the challenge in Steph eyes.

"It does seem like that will work. Cass, that ok with you?"

"Sure."

By the time Steph made her way off the machine, the others had situated themselves. As Danny worked, Steph could see Cass fidgeting, her thighs rubbing together as she lay bracketed by Danny's legs

"How's it looking in there."

As Danny appraised her of their progress, Steph began running her fingers over Cass's thighs. Dodging the kick sent her way, she continued to tease Cass. Soon enough, the air kicked back on, and Cass wiggled her way free. Glaring at her girlfriend, both turned to Danny, who was still putting things back together. Steph nudged Cass.

"Seems like Danny really appreciated your help."

Still half in the machine, both girls could see the bulge showing Danny had enjoyed some fringe benefits to the repair. Climbing out of the machine, Danny gave them a embarrassed smile.

"Sue me, she's hot and half naked."

Danny had been going to dance class for about 6 months now, but had usually attended a weekday class. He had started learning back in Amity Park, when Dora had invited him to a ball. She had been appalled to learn he couldn't dance, and had taught him herself. It had taken Danny a while to admit he enjoyed dancing, and he had made it a point to keep up with the skill. He had missed the class for the last few weeks, and was happy to be back. As he stretched in a corner of the room, he saw Cass exit the changing room. He smiled and went to call out to her, but decided better. Moving carefully, he ensured her surroundings were clear as he silently approached her.

"Boo."

He dodged her kick, rocking back just enough that her foot missed his chin. He let out a laugh as she pouted up at him.

"Hey Cass, I didn't know you were a part of this group."

She glared up at him, which made him laugh all the more.

"My first. And you?"

"I usually come to the Wednesday class, but I've been with the group for a few months."

As they talked, the rest of the class filed in. Stretching complete, Danny listened as the group head went over some administrative affairs. Cass noticed him looking around, and cocked her head in curiosity as he met her gaze.

"This class is all adults. Wednesday we have the youth class as well, so its more a learning class than this one seems to be."

Cass nodded as the discussion ended, and someone started some music. Moving to clear the floor, Danny smiled when he heard they were doing Jack and Jill dances.

"Cool, I love these."

Cass hadn't heard the term, and nudged Danny's arm.

"Oh, a Jack and Jill dance is when two people improv a dance. They are given a song and a style and make it up as they go. Watch them."

As Cass watched the dancers, she was impressed. She could read the hesitations, and the adjustments made. But the final product was wonderful. She also thought about how easily Danny read her. It was nice to not have to explain everything, even though she had long adjusted to speaking. It always made her happy when Danny talked to her just as much as he talked to Steph. Sometimes, being next to her much more social girlfriend made her self-conscious, but never around Danny. As the dance ended, Cass joined everyone in clapping.

"Want to give it a try?"

Danny's question drew her out of her thoughts, and she smiled at him. They moved forward, and Danny requested a waltz, as she was new to this. As they danced, Cass noticed a shift in Danny's mood. Unable to figure out what had happened, they finished the dance to applause. As they made room for the next couple, Cass asked about the change.

"What happened?"

"Nothing, its just...the dance is give and take, Cass. You read me perfectly, but the point isn’t just for someone to lead and someone to follow. Its a conversation. You didn't take your turn to talk."

Cass froze, and Danny remained silent giving her time to think. She hadn't realized. As the class continued, Cass remembered a talk with Steph, long before they had started dating. Steph had been angry that she never spoke up, that she accepted less as if it was what she deserved. It had been a bonding moment for them, and had resulted in them growing closer as Cass began to explore her own wants and desires. It was what prompted her to talk to Bruce about ballet. As the class drew to a close, Cass finally caught Danny's eye.

"Sorry."

"Its ok, just remember. Maybe next time, we can try again."

After the class, Cass made it all the way home before she remembered she was suppose to invite Danny over.

Steph walked across the campus, keeping an eye out for Danny. She had teased Cass all weekend for forgetting to invite Danny over, and wanted the chance to do it herself so she could tease her about that. She hoped to find Danny today, as he was notoriously difficult to track down. Spotting him sleeping under a tree, she moved silently, hoping to pay him back for always scaring them. She was crouched at his head, reaching to boop his nose when he spoke.

"Hey Steph."

Pouting, she stood over him.

"How the hell did you know its me, you eyes are closed."

Opening them, Danny smiled up at her.

"No one else on campus is as quiet as you, or has a reason to try to scare me. Now, do me a favor and step back. Purple is your color, but still. Some things are for Cass-eyes only."

Steph froze before stepping back, arms crossed at her waist. Dick's shirt was baggy on her, but she hadn't thought about Danny looking up it.

"Perv."

"Hey, I’m just happy you're wearing one this time. Enjoyable or not, that was the most awkward introduction I’ve ever had."

"God don't remind me. Shoot, I still have your hoodie, don't I."

Steph was genuinely upset she had forgot to return it, but Danny brushed her off.

"It's all good. You don't have a boyfriend to steal from, so I will make this sacrifice."

Danny laughed, and Steph was just happy he wasn't looking at her. She had taken to wearing the hoodie around the house. And considering Danny's size, it was the biggest hoodie they had. Big enough for them both to cuddle up in.....Yeah, Danny was never getting that back.

"So, besides trying to scare me, what’s up?"

"Just finished up classes, and I was actually looking for you. Do you want to come over to hang out this Sunday? We do a movie day at least once a month, and figured you could hang."

Danny looked at her, and Steph couldn't figure out what he was thinking.

"..Sure, if you want. Anything I should bring?"

"Nah, we steal most of our snacks from Bruce. He gots the good stuff"

"Nice."

Steph entered the room to fanfare, courtesy of her phone. Cass dutifully clapped.

"Good job, so proud. What did you do?"

"I, unlike some people I could mention, invited a friend over for movies this weekend."

Steph was knocked off her high horse with a pillow to the face.

"And also, we need to hide the cuddle hoodie."

"What?"

"Yeah, I totally forgot I needed to give that back to Danny, and we have defiled it too much to risk him reclaiming it."

Jazz was at the table when Danny got home. He caught the end of her call.

"Mom and Dad?"

"Yeah, and Vlad."

"Gross."

While Vlad had calmed the fuck down, he was still on thin fucking ice. After a particularly unhinged attack senior year, Danny had dragged Vlad kicking and screaming to the Far Frozen. While his accident with the portal had happened in Wisconsin, Vlad had been whisked away to a specialty hospital for his recovery. A hospital located in scenic Gotham. Frostbite had purged all the tainted ecto from Vlad, and the newly clean halfa had been appalled at his behavior. In an effort to make amends, he had told Danny he would be revealing himself to the Fentons, giving Danny a chance to gauge his parents reactions before committing himself. Danny had refused, Jazz had souped him, and, by the time he was freed, Vlad had confessed. Jack and Maddie had taken the news hard. Jack was distraught he had hurt his friend, and Maddie had already deduced Danny was hurt as well. When Danny revealed himself, his parents had to be held back from destroying all of their research. A lot of long talks were head, both between the Fenton family and with Vlad. Grudges were dragged out, fights explained, and all secrets revealed. In the end, Jazz and Danny had left the adults to talk it out. Vlad had tracked him down a few days later, inviting him to talk in the Ghost Zone. Once there, he finally answered on of Danny's longest standing questions.

"The reason I only blame your father is simple. It wasn't the accident, but the abandonment. I was there for him, not for Maddie. At the time....it was safer to pursue a woman I knew would never want me than someone...than a man who would accept me no matter what."

Vlad being in love with his dad wasn't the surprise se he thought it was; Danny and his friends had been making the joke for years. The surprising part was Maddie being ok with it. Danny and Jazz tried not to think about it, but as long as their parents were happy, so were they.

"Anything up in Amity?"

"No, nothing new."

"That’s good. I talked to Sam last night. She said all the wards are holding, and that she and Val are doing great."

"They were telling Sam's parents about them this week, weren't they?"

"Yeah, tomorrow. Val's dad and Tucker are going with them, but she promised to call us either way."

"That’s good."

As they spoke, Danny went to sit in the couch. Suddenly, he started as Jazz's hand waved in his face.

"You good, little brother?"

"Yeah, just thinkin about something."

Jazz cocked her eyebrow, and sighed when he didn't elaborate.

"Ok, I'm here if you need to talk."

Friday rolled around, and Cass and Steph were at the Manor for weekly dinner. Everyone was in the sitting room, and the girls were talking with Duke and Damian. Beside them, Tim and Dick played chess.

"Got any plans this weekend, Duke?"

"Yeah, Jason's joining me for patrol tomorrow, so Imma make him get the cats out of trees."

The group laughed.

"How'd you manage that?"

"I covered for him a few weeks ago, after that girl broke his arm."

"Oh yeah, I wonder how his date went."

"Considering he didn't shoot me when I asked, pretty good. What are y’all up to this weekend?"

As Steph started to steal pieces from the chess board, Cass answered.

"Nothing tomorrow, but movie day on Sunday. Danny's coming over."

At this, everyone stared at the two. Dick slowly asked his question.

"I thought movie day was for the girls?"

"Only because you all won't be quiet."

Steph defended them, and they reluctantly agreed. They did all have a tendency to critique the movie, and it had often driven the girls, Barbara included, to revenge. As Alfred called them to dinner, the topic moved on.

Movie day had gone well, with Danny joining them after breakfast. They had finished two movies by the time Steph got up for snacks, and were chatting while they ate around the coffee table

"You weren't kidding about the good stuff."

"Yep. Happy to say its worth the theft."

"Hey, I don't judge. I always support stealing from the rich."

"What about Cass?"

"Hm?"

"Cass, she's rich."

"Well in that case..."

Staring Cass in the eye, Danny slowly reached out to grab Steph's wrist. Just as slowly, Cass pulled a throwing star out from under the table. Danny held eye contact for a minute, before slowly retracting his hand. Steph giggled as Cass returned the star. Still moving slowly, Danny scooted around the table, going from besides Steph to working his way around to Cass. Maintaining eye contact, Danny's hand reached under the table to grab the star from its holster. With a flick, he sent it across the room, hitting a dartboard on the wall dead center. Cass, slightly confused, went to retrieve the star. When she turned around, Danny had Steph in his arms and was slowly retreating to the door. Cass wound back to throw the star. Finally unable to hold it in, Steph burst out laughing, breaking the stare off. Danny sat her down with a laugh, and they returned to the table. Still smiling, Steph remembered something she had been meaning to ask Danny.

"Hey, besides school and dance class, what do you do all day?"

"Hm?"

"It's hard to find you."

"Oh, yeah..."

Steph and Cass exchanged a glance. For a simple question, that was a big shift. Cass spoke up as Danny seemed to struggle with an answer.

"Hey, what level friend?"

Danny laughed, and his expression lightened up

"Definatly a 9.5, but the full stories heavy. For now, I’ll just say I'm looking for someone. I know she's in Gotham, but that's all I know."

As the next movie queued up, Danny excused himself. Cass and Steph gave each other a lost look, neither sure how they felt about Danny looking for a 'her' in the city, especially with the fond tone he used.

By the time dinner rolled around, they had all fallen asleep. Danny had been the first, nodding off on his end of the couch. Steph had planned to draw on him, but Cass was dozing against her side, so she couldn't move. Steph was the last to fall asleep, and the first to wake. She found herself snuggled against Cass waist, with her arm draped over Danny's leg. Cass was wedged between Danny and the couch, resting on his shoulder while his arm was draped over the back of the couch. Half asleep, it took Steph a moment to fully grasp the reasons she should probably move.  She sat up and looked at Cass. Deciding she was too tired to decide why the sight didn't bother her, she woke Cass gently, she saw her go through a similar thought process. Having already offered to let Danny spend the night, they draped a blanket over him before heading to their room for bed.

The next morning, Cass and Steph woke to the news that a break-out had occurred at Arkham. As they leapt to respond, they barely remembered Danny was in the living room. Cass threw on a hoodie and went to check on him. She found him awake on the couch, a half written note in hand.

"Morning Cass. Oh look, my hoodie."

Cass froze remembering both that this was his hoodie, and that it was currently all she was wearing. She flushed red, and Danny was quick to connect the dots.

"Nope, not processing that right now. I have to get to class. I heard about Arkham, y’all be careful if you go out."

Leaving before he could fuck anything up, he called out a "bye Steph!" and headed out the door.

Leaving the building a scant hour later, he made it about halfway to the subway before stepping in to give someone a chance to escape some goons. Unfortunately, they had hostages with them, so he went quietly when they ordered.

Spoiler and Black Bat were not having a good day. Between the impromptu snuggling and Cass hoodie snafu, they were having a little trouble shifting to hero mode. As they tuned into the Joker's broadcast at Oracle's Clock tower, their day got worse. Robin was the one to spot him.

"Is that Danny?"

The girls jumped forward, and Oracle focused the camera. Standing at the head of the hostages was Danny, arms splayed out to keep the others safe. Unfortunately, this drew the Joker's attention.

"Well well, a little hero here. What's your name, boy?"

"Danny."

"Well Danny-boy, want to hear a joke?"

"I'm good, that outfits enough of one."

Everyone, both in the video and in the Clock tower, froze. Batman growled.

'"He needs to stop. He's making himself a target."

Spoiler and Black Bat were frozen. Red Robin answered.

"He knows that."

Danny fucking hated clowns. This day had started great. Everything else aside, it was always a plus to see a hot girl in his hoodie. Especially when he's fairly certain that was all she was wearing. Then this bitch-ass clown had to show up. Danny glared as one of the goons moved closer, but didn't take his eyes off of Joker.

"Fair warning, I fully intend to kill you or any of these goons who touch anyone here."

Joker laughed before surging forward. He hit Danny hard, sending him to the ground. Danny spit blood from his split lip as the Joker turned to the cameras. As the maniac went on and on about whatever delusion, Danny dipped his finger in the blood. Drawing swiftly, he heard the Joker coming back. Lifting his head with a grin, Danny rolled forward as a green shield surrounded the hostages.

"Well lookie here. Magic eh. Come on Batsy-"

"Shut it, clown, the spells fried the cameras"

As the Joker glared, one of his goons confirmed the news. Turning back to Danny, the Joker froze. In the moment he looked away, all his goons, save the one beside him, had fallen to the ground.

"Neat magic trick, boy."

Danny smiled.

"Wait til you see my next one."

By the time the Bats got there, Danny had dropped the shield. The hostages had left swiftly. Danny sat in front of the building, goons tied up at his feet. Black Bat and Spoiler hung back, not sure they could keep cool with their friend. As Nightwing, Red Hood, and Red Robin began moving the goons, Batman walked up to Danny, who was scanning the vigilantes with a strange look in his eyes.

"Are you ok?"

"Yep"

"It was foolish to antagonize the Joker."

"Yep"

"Did he escape?"

"Nope, he's inside."

As Batman went to enter the warehouse, Danny held up a hand.

"Hold on, Batman."

"He may have escaped."

"Trust me, that’s not a problem."

"..."

"So anyway, I really hate clowns. And, as I'm sure you know, I work with death magic."

"Did you kill him?"

At this, all the Bats froze. Spoiler and Black Bat stared at their friend, afraid and lost.

"No, he's alive. Although, death may be the better option. So basically, shades are low level ghosts that tend to latch onto whoever killed them. The Joker had a ton. Typically, they impart a feeling of guilt to the murderer, but Joker couldn't feel guilt, so it didn't stop him. What I did was move those shades from external to internal. They now reside in his soul, and are extracting their revenge. The Joker will 'live' through every murder he has ever committed. As each shade passes on, they will take a bit of his soul with them. When the final one Fades, so to will the Joker."

As Batman processed, the police finally showed. Nightwing pulled Commissioner Gordon aside, explaining what had happened. The Commissioner walked up to Danny and introduced himself before asking a few questions.

"How long will the Joker be like that?"

Danny turned to look inside. Glancing over his shoulder, the Commissioner saw Joker laid out on the floor, seemingly asleep.

"Based on the rate the souls are departing, about 30 more seconds."

"That's it?"

"Time is relative, Commissioner. I'd say, from his perspective, its been about a year. A year of constant, around the clock, torture on the deepest level."

As they watched, the Joker suddenly convulsed once, before stilling.

"Oop, there he goes."

Danny turned to find everyone, Bats, cops, and goons, frozen. With a loud clap, everyone started before continuing their tasks.

"As a police officer, I have to bring you in. As a father, thank you."

"That's fair, but I should warn you, I have diplomatic immunity."

At this, the Bats started. No where in any of their research had they found that.

"Yeah, I'm the representative of an ally of Themyscara. Besides, the Joker died of a naturally induced heart attack. You will find no traces of physical evidence, and any magical residue will be inconclusive due to the thousands of shades. Not to mention, the only concrete evidence was collected by a vigilante's recording device, which will not stand up in a court of law."

The Commissioner sighed.

"I still have to bring you in. Do you have documentation of your diplomatic status?"

"Yes, but its more of an in person thing. Batman, could you invite Wonder Woman at her earliest convenience? Tell her its a matter of the Infinite."

Batman was concerned. Including himself, at least four of his family members had checked into Danny Nightingale. Yet not a single report had found anything of note, nor any signs of tampering. When he had called Diana, she had immediately left the UN meeting to attest to Danny's status. And she refused to provide any info, citing a NDA of all things. To his credit, Danny had been a model detainee. He had been polite, followed all orders, and refused to discuss any details of the ongoing investigation as he left the station. It was maddening. And that didn't even touch whatever was going on with Cass and Steph. Bruce had been warned, in no uncertain terms, by Dick to stay out of the girls relationship with the boy. With a sigh, Bruce decided to let it go. For now.

Cass and Steph rushed home, and then rushed downstairs. Banging on the door until Jazz opened it, they were surprised how unfazed the older woman was.

"I take it y’all saw the news?"

Jazz guided the girls to the couch, handing them each a cup of tea.

"Jazz, are you ok? We heard everything was over, is Danny okay?"

"Yeah, the police had some questions, but I was able to talk to him."

"What happened?"

Jazz regarded the girls on her couch. Danny may not have said anything, but she knew he thought of them as special.

"Quick question, what level friendship are y’all at?"

Laughing at the girls looks of confusion, Jazz explained.

"Danny loves that joke, and told me y’all kept it going. So?'

"9.5, as of yesterday."

"Damn, big numbers. So, Danny sentenced the Joker to consequences, and is technically being held for murder. But, thanks to occurrences, he has diplomatic immunity to all earthly crimes via Themyscara, as long as he has a good reason."

"....."

"Yeah, its a whole thing. Anyway, I'll tell him to head up to see y’all when he gets home, ok?

Returning to their apartment, the girls collapsed on the couch. After a few minutes, Cass rose up to go get Ellie. Walking into the living room, she froze as the Core lit up with an audible buzz. faint streaks of color began bleeding into the Core from all over the room, focused mostly on the couch and table. After a few minutes, the lights faded. but Ellie's Core continued to glow. Holding it up, Cass noticed it was also a little bigger. Steph walked up to see the Core.

"Well, guess having Danny over helped."

"Yes, but was it because of more people, or because of Danny?"

Later that night, Cass heard a knock at the door. Steph joined her as she looked through the peep hole before throwing the door open for Danny to enter.

"Hey guys what’s-"

Danny was cut of by two thumps, as the girls threw themselves into a hug. Stepping forward slightly, Danny kicked the door close before returning the hug.

"Hey, its ok, I’m ok. He barely touched me."

Reminded of the hit he took, the girls leaned back to see his lip. They were shocked to see it barely marked.

"See, what'd I tell you? I heal fast."

As the girls finally let him go, he took a look at them. They both looked fine, if a little flustered. As they led the way to the kitchen, Danny tried not to notice that they each wore little. A shirt and shorts, and little else he could see. As they settled down with some tea, Danny strove to break the tension.

"You know, its kinda cold in here."

Steph got it first, looking down. Cass level a glare at him as Steph stepped out, both blushing.

"Perv."

"Hey look, its my hoodie again. On Steph this time."

Cass dropped her head to the table while Steph took up glaring duties.

"Why were we worried about you again?"

This time when they fell asleep on the couch, Danny was the first to awake. He was at one end, the girls at the other. He laughed, seeing them both curled up in his hoodie. And was quickly cut off when he saw a pile of shirts on the floor.

"These girls are going to kill me."

Leaving a note promising a call later that day, Danny headed out.

Cass woke at noon, pleasantly warm in her girlfriends arms. Attempting to exit the hoodie, she was unsurprised to find them both topless, and surprised their shorts had stayed on. They both were resistant to sleeping in clothes. She made it out completely, and was mid stretch before she remembered Danny was, quite possibly, awake at the other end on the couch. Arm across her chest, she turned slowly, only to let out a sigh when she saw the note he left. Reading it, she froze. Why was that sigh less relieved and more disappointed? Turning back to Steph, she saw that she had shifted around on the couch. She also saw that her shorts had shifted down, and decided to busy herself with waking her girlfriend.

Steph woke pleasantly, Cass's head nested between her thighs. Lifting her hips, she let out a moan as she felt Cass hum a good morning. With a gasp, she rocked up and into her mouth.

"I assume this means Danny went home."

Cass rose up, guiding Steph to turn on her side as she brought one of her legs up. Grinding herself down, Cass rubbed their slits together before answering.

"Would you rather he hadn't."

Steph shifted slightly, bringing them both more pleasure.

"We do owe him for the hoodie."

As the girls moved together, Steph was the first to fall. With a stuttered gasp, she reached down to slide her fingers into Cass. Riding her hand, Cass soon came with a muffled shout. The girls lay together for a while, catching their breath. Soon enough, they got up to prepare for the day.

"Oh, yeah, lets grab Ellie. If she makes a light show again, maybe it was Danny."

After a few minutes observation, they were left with no answer. The Core had continued to glow, and grown again, but no light show like the previous day. They returned Ellie to her room, and headed out for the day.

Meanwhile, a floor away, Danny made a call.

"Dann-o, everything ok?"

"Yeah Dad, just had a question."

"Your Mom and Vladdie are down in the lab, want me to get them?"

"No, its about you. Well, actually about them, but for you."

"Shoot kiddo?"

"How did you know...how did you know you loved them both? I mean, shouldn't loving one of them, I don't know, stop you from loving the other?"

"Not at all, Danny! Us Fenton's know the truth! Love isn't divisible, its exponential! The more you love, the more room for love you have! I loved your Mom with all my heart, then Jazzy came along, and I had twice as much love in my heart for both of them. Same for when you showed up. See? Easy as fudge."

"...Thanks dad."

"No problem, Danny!"

Steph gasped as she thrusted herself back, desperate to take Danny deeper into her. Only to whine as she felt him slip his dick from inside her. Raising herself up and away from Cass, she looked between them to see Danny thrusting deep into Cass's throat. She shuddered at the sight, and dove down to nestle her face back between her girlfriend's thighs. As she felt Danny lining himself up to take her again, she gasped and-

Woke up. A moments confusion, coupled with both shame and want, had her huffing as she threw the covers off. A arm snaked around her waist as she shifted to sit against the headboard.

"Bad dream?"

"...kinda?"

Cass hummed, only to laugh as she shifted her hand lower.

"Hmm, seems like a good dream to me. What's wrong?"

Steph fought to focus as Cass grew bolder.

"...Danny was with us."

"Sounds like a very good dream then."

"Cass!"

"What, he's cute. And nice, and helpful. We can think he's hot without it being a crime. So, tell me more about this dream"

It wasn't until much later that night, in the darkness of their room that Cass brought up the topic again.

"Steph."

"Yeah?"

"About Danny...."

"...yeah."

Cass rarely  needed words with Stephanie, and she loved her all the more for it.

"What do we do?"

"...I have no idea."

The next morning, Steph woke up in a much better mood. Leaving Cass to sleep in, she went to check on Ellie. Seeing that her Core continued to glow softly, she gently measured it's growth. It seems that it had finished growing, and Steph noted that it's glow had stabilized as well. Hopefully, these were both good things.

Steph was regretting asking Dick for advise. What she had hoped for, foolishly she knew, was a quite conversation had become a 'Mandatory Sibling Meeting!' Even Jason was there. Complaining, but there.

"Quit being a dick, Dick. And if this was so mandatory, where’s the demon brat?"

"Damian is excused due to age. Now, pay attention."

Dick hit the table with a gavel of all things, and the siblings dutifully fell in around the table.

"Thank you all for joining us today. We have two topics to cover and will begin with the funniest."

With a click, a projector turned on, displaying...a picture of Jazz? Jason cursed.

"No, leave her the fuck alone. I don't need this dysfunctional family scaring her off."

"Au contraire, Monsieur Hood. Stephanie, would you please identify this woman."

"...That’s Jazz, our neighbor. Danny's big sister."

Jason stared in disbelief.

"Correct, Miss Brown. She is also the woman Jason has been seeing."

"The one that broke his arm?"

"Yes, Timothy, the same. And, Jason, I must advise you note that she already knows and has befriended Steph and Cass, well before meeting you."

Jason grumbled but settled down.

"And that brings us to the second order of business."

With a click, Danny's face replaced Jazz's.

"Danny Nightingale. notable accomplishments include single handedly purifying Gotham's water supply, unofficially unaliving the Joker, and, most impressively, capturing the hearts of our sisters."

At this, Jason, Tim, and Duke all started, staring at the blushing girls in surprise. Soon enough, Dick changed the slide, bringing up a chart full of arrows and pictures, and bringing the attention off of them.

"This, my brethren, is what could be considered Oracle's finest achievement."

At the end of the table, Barbara rolled her eyes.

"Updated daily at the very least, this chart shows the relationship status of the entire Justice League and affiliated civilians. I draw your attention to the central node, also known as the Bat-node."

The chart shifted to center on a poorly drawn Batman. Arrows of various colors connected him to Catwoman, Superman, Talia, Wonder Woman, and extended off-screen to the greater chart. Duke took the opportunity to leave.

"I will not traumatize you with what each color means, but I am confident you can figure the basics out. Now, some may ask, Dick, why in your infinite wisdom are you showing us this. Great question."

The next slide was a visual assault, and read "Nightwing’s Definitive Rules for Dating as a Hero!" After a brief pause, the slide changed, and Dick read it out.

 "Rule #1: Open and clear communication. As heros, we have secrets. Pretending they aren't there never works. Better to acknowledge them, with clear boundaries, than lie. Obviously, this can be a deal breaker, but trust me on that."

The slide changed, and Dick continued

"Rule #2: We fist-fight gods. There are no rules. Let's be honest, that first rule is more of a guideline. We are heros, friends with aliens, and semi-regularly travel dimensions. The normal rules of society are as real as Bruce’s 'I work alone.' Look at me. I have a badass hacker soon-to-be wife, our sexy alien mistress, and a dumbass speedster boyfriend. We talked it out, it works for us."

No one took his word for it, turning to Babs who nodded.

"He's right. Stupid, but right. It took a while for us to get here, and we work to keep it good."

"See, Babs approved. And I have nothing on Bruce. I took an intervention from Lois, Selena, and Talia to get that shit worked out."

Everyone shuddered at the thought of those three teaming up, and Dick shut down his display. Turning to his sisters, he sat down, most of the humor leaving his face.

"In all seriousness, don't get caught up in expectations. As long as you are all good with it, its fine. Just remember, he has just as many secrets as you."

They would all deny it, but Danny, Steph, and Cass avoided each other for the next few weeks. None of them were willing to risk what they had on a chance. The stalemate ended rather abruptly.

A knock on the door interrupted the girls yoga, and when Cass opened it she saw Danny.

"Hey, my class was canceled, but Jazz's boyfriend is over. Can I hang here?"

Laughing, Cass let him in.

"Did you know she's dating our brother?"

"No shit? She didn't say."

"We just connected the dots a few weeks ago.

Cass rejoined Steph, and could feel Danny's eyes on her. When she glanced over her shoulder, she caught him staring at her ass.

"See anything you like."

"Sorry, feel free to slap me."

"I was going to say the same."

Danny nearly fell off the couch, and Steph let out a bark of laughter.

"Care to join us, or would you rather keep staring?"

Much to Steph's annoyance, Danny was good at yoga. At some point, she stopped following along and just focused on knocking Danny over. This led to her hang off his back as he went through the poses.

"How the hell are you staying balanced?"

"You barely weigh anything. I could do this holding both of you."

Cass took that personally, and leapt at him. Now with Steph clinging to his back, and Cass in front, Danny couldn't do the poses, but he did make a point of standing on one foot, bending forward and back, seemingly disregarding their weight.

"See told ya. Now hop down before anything inconvenient pops up."

With a blush, the girls listened. While they got changed, Danny made breakfast.

"So, before I so rudely interrupted, any plans for the day?"

"Not really, just house keeping stuff."

"Anything I can help with? Tall shelves that need cleaning, light bulbs to replace."

"First of all, fuck you. Second of all, yes."

As Danny helped around the apartment, Cass and Steph had an intense nonverbal discussion. Only to be derailed as, while changing a light, they spotted Danny's scar. Steph walked up, cautiously calling out.

"Hey, Danny?"

"Yeah?"

"Can I ask about.."

Rather than saying it, Steph reached out, softly touching the scar along his naval. Danny stilled.

"Yeah, I guess it was too much to hope you forget. Let me finish this."

Danny sat in front of them. Rather than the one on his chest, he brought their attention to his left palm.

"This was the first."

The girls took his hand, tracing the lichberg figures up his arm.

"My parents were inventors, but not the most effective ones. My day could make the craziest things from junk, but they didn't always make sense. Like a toaster with an attack setting. My mom reined him in a little, but...Anyway, their life's work was a functioning wormhole. A portal to another dimension. I was fourteen when they finished it. They powered it on and...nothing. They were so, so disappointed. They headed out, to brainstorm or something, and I invited my friends over."

Danny paused, staring down at his hand, still held between the girls.

"We were dumb kids, and my friend Sam, she wanted to see the portal. So I brought them down. She wanted a picture, and I wanted to take a look. Sometimes, I could see what they missed. So I went in, and found the problem. Unfortunately, I did that by turning it on. As far as I can tell, my parents miswired a maintence light. I fell, hit the switch, and it turned on."

Danny took his shirt off, and the girls followed the scar to his heart. Even disregarding the Y-incision, it wasn't a pretty picture.

"I should have died. I did die. but not right. I came out of the portal different. Its why I’m so quiet, why my blood burns."

Steph was regretting ever asking, even as she focused with rapt attention not to miss a single detail. Moving her gaze from the worst of the scars, Steph realized Danny was littered with healed wounds. Cass was crying silently.

"Everything else but the big one was collected over the next four years. The portal worked, and things were coming through. I thought it was my fault, and the portal gave me powers, so I fought."

Cass had to ask.

"Were all of these from those fights?"

"No. My parents....they considered everything that came out of the portal as evil. And I look different, when I use my powers so..."

Cass did not like this answer at all.

"Did...did your parents..?"

"Vivisect me? No, but not for lack of trying. No, this was the government. Luthor was president, and had passed a law declaring everything from the other side as non-sentient, non-feeling, and needing to be killed. They had me for about 6 hours before my friends got me out."

Danny gestured to a scar that circled just above his knee. They realized it was much more than skin deep.

"Fortunately, I heal quickly, and was able to get all my parts on the way out. Duct tape really does fix everything."

They both hit him for that, before pulling him into a hug. They sat for a few minutes, before Danny drew back with a sigh.

"Well, if we are having emotionally charged conversations, I should probably let you know I know about the Bat thing."

The girls stared.

"Yeah, since Joker. Some of my powers are sensory."

While they processed, Danny stood, pulling his shirt back on.

"I'll go grab lunch. We can talk more after, ok?"

With that, Danny headed out. Cass turned to Steph.

"...That was...a lot."

Steph choked out a laugh.

"God, I was expecting a meta, but this. A whole other dimension. And he held it back, almost alone, for four years."

"But what about now? Did the portal close? Do his parents know?...Is he safe? Will he leave?"

"...I don't know, Cass. And what about us? He knows who we are, Bruce is going to freak."

Cass thought it over.

"Maybe not. Diana knows of him, at the very least. And he's known for a while, and hasn't said anything."

"True. But what about the..other stuff. With us?"

"We need to decide, but not today. And about Ellie."

"Do you think....he could help with her? I mean, between the magic and this, maybe he can help with her too."

"It's a little much to think he is the answer to that many different things, but who knows. For now, maybe not."

Danny returned soon, and they ate quickly. Cass asked her questions as they returned to the living room.

"Oh, the portal's still open still open, but we worked it out on both sides. Not to mention, a couple of my friends stuck around, and they manage any issues."

"And your parents?"

"Yeah, they know now. And hare sufficiently traumatized about the whole thing. We're good."

"Nothing about this is good, but ok. About the Bat thing..."

"Let Bruce know I’m available for whatever questions he has, but y'all's secrets safe with me. I do ask that you let me tell Jazz, or have Jason tell her, sooner rather than later. Assuming he hasn't already."

"Actually, we weren't going to tell him. We trust you, and you don’t deserve a grilling for something you can't control."

"Awesome."

Steph drew a fortifying breath and, with a confidence building headpat from Cass, broached a new topic.

"Danny, there was something else we wanted to talk about."

"What's up?"

"..."

Steph had no idea how to broach the topic. Sending a panicked look to Cass, she saw her at a loss as well. Danny laughed.

"I'm guessing this is about the lingering sexual tension?"

"God I hate the way you put that. But, yes. That."

"Would you prefer I call it a burning desire to bend one of you over the nearest piece of furniture? Or the frequency one of you eyes me like a tree to climb?"

The girls pelted him with pillows.

"Oof. But yeah, it has become slightly problematic. Fair warning, I gave you the backstory, but there a lot of nuance I can't get into right now. I came to Gotham to find someone, as well as to wait for the ones who hunt her. I can't say more until she's safe."

"No, we get that. Bat stuff aside, there's still stuff we are keeping under wraps."

"And I get that. As for the emotional stuff.."

Danny sat up straight, looking them in the eyes as he spoke.

"You are two of my best friends, and I love you both as such. I would rather lose a hand than either of you. But I also would very much enjoy following through on half the stuff we say to each other, much less all of it. I'm not asking for anything right now, cuz its not a decision to make lightly, even if I hadn't told you what I did today."

They hadn't expected him to be so direct, and were at a loss for words. Danny smiled, giving them time. Cass spoke first.

"We love you too, Danny. As a friend and maybe even as more."

Steph nodded along, and added her thoughts.

"And you're right we don't need to figure it all out right now, but...maybe a little at a time?"

"That’s fine, just promise me, if anything changes, goes to far, to fast, whatever, that we talk about it, ok? Miscommunication is by far my least favorite troupe."

"Nerd. But yeah, we can do that."

Danny left that evening, He could tell the girls needed time to process. Entering his apartment slowly, he spotted Jazz on the couch.

"Is it safe?"

"Shut up. Come here."

Walking over, he hesitated.

"Did you defile the couch?"

"I will End you. Sit down."

"That’s not a no."

He sat as she glared.

"Did you know?"

"About?"

"Jason."

"That he's Cass and Steph's brother, or the other thing."

"Both."

"Yes to both, but only since today. I learned he was their brother, and extrapolated the rest. I hadn't met him before to connect him to Hood."

"Fantastic, we're all on the same page now."

"Depends, did you tell him about the ghost?"

"You told them!?"

"Not everything, just the overview. I didn't mention ghosts, just things from the portal, and that I’m different."

"I mentioned we had powers, but that I couldn't say more without your permission."

"That's nice. Of course, I just left you out of my explanation entirely, but that works to."

Jazz hit him with a pillow.

"Invite him over for lunch tomorrow, I'll give him the overview o gave the girls."

Jazz looked at him thoughtfully.

"Did you talk about anything else with them?"

"...Dad called, didn't he."

"Yes, two weeks ago. But you had been avoiding them, so I didn't want to bring it up in case you were wallowing in rejection."

"No confidence in me, huh."

"Pretty much."

"Rude. We talked, but I told them to think it over. I dumped a lot of lore today. They agreed, and suggested we just take it slow, let things develop naturally."

"Solid plan, could use more lists though."

"Jazz I will show Jason all of the Nightwing pics if you make a single bullet point about my love life."

"I destroyed those."

"I resurrected them."

Lunch with Jason went well, and Danny told him that, while Cass and Steph knew what he did, he would prefer to keep the rest from the other Bats. Jason agreed with no hesitation. He did, however, have a question.

"The portal, did it have anything to do with death?"

"...Why do you ask?"

Jason explained the Lazarus pits, as well as the rage he still struggled with. Danny was torn, still intent on hiding the specifics, and chose to muddy the issue.

"I dabble in death magic, remember. It could be that. Want me to take a look at you?"

"..sure."

"Cool, take your shirt off an turn around. Jazz, can you hand me my chalk?"

Danny sketched a circle around Jason, and lit it up. It was entirely for show. He rested his hand on Jason's back, sensing the ecto inside him. He removed his hand and dismissed the circle

"Gross. This is basically sewage-grade. You can get up."

Danny began rummaging through a chest, hiding the fact that he was crafting an amulet of ice. After 'finding' it, he held it out to Jason.

"Here. Wear this against your skin for a week. It'll filter out the gunk. If it turns completely black before the week is up, come see me for another one."

Jason was confounded.

"That’s it?"

"Yep. I told your brother's last time, magic is all in the runes. This one is purify, this one is collect, and these ones control  the rate. Too fast, and you could go into shock, too slow and the gunk replenishes faster than it's purified."

Jason was done with this conversation. Jazz, taking pity on him, invited him for a walk before he had to head out to patrol.

As the weather began to shift to autumn, Danny had taken to wandering Gotham at night. He knew Ellie should be nearly healed by now, and was desperate to find her before anyone else did. He stopped to rest, sitting along the edge of the Clock tower. He heard someone touchdown behind him.

"Don't worry, I'm not that depressed."

"...You get that that sounds bad, right?"

"Oh, hey Nightwing. What's up?"

"Nothing much."

The older man came to sit next to Danny, watching him out of the corner of his eye.

"It's Danny, right?"

Laughing, Danny answered with a question.

"Is anyone downstairs besides Oracle?"

Nightwing didn't answer.

"Come on, don't be a dick."

"...So you know?"

"Yep."

Soon enough, Danny was sitting just inside, complimenting Oracle on her set-up. Nightwing was resting in a corner, and Black Bat and Spoiler were sneaking in from the rafters.

"It really is a nice system, but you should consider ramping up your anti-magic protections. Technomancy is an ever-growing field."

As he spoke, Danny grabbed two pens from the desk. With a flick, he pegged two Bats in the forehead before running to dive out a window.

"Anywaygottogobye!"

The next day, Danny met up with Cass, Steph, and Babs for lunch. they ate at the girls apartment, with Danny playing chef. After the meal, they sat around chatting.

"So Babs, I hear your getting married soon? Congrats."

"Thank you, Danny, and yes, this winter."

"How cool-" two smacks "-I'll have to get you something."

"Actually...I already owe you my thanks. I don't know if anyone told you, but the Joker is the one who put me in this chair."

Danny was silent, and Babs started to feel bad for bringing the mood down. She was trying to think of how to recover when Danny spoke.

"I hope its not overstepping, but....surely Bruce has access to something that could help?"

Babs had had the same thought, and hated the answer.

"He offered, but I refused."

Cass and Steph were shocked. They hadn't heard this.

"It was the right thing to do. Yeah, the League has tech that could help, but none of its publically available. And there is no good reason a Commissioner’s daughter should get it."

Danny started.

"You mean Commissioner Gordon?"

"Yes, he's my dad."

"Does he know?"

"I think so, but we don't talk about it."

"....If I could help you, with a good reason, would you let me?"

The three girls were shocked, and Danny pulled out his phone with a smile. He was on the call by the time the girls recovered.

"Commissioner Gordon, it's Danny Nightingale. I had a question. Are there official records of my stay in the station, as well as the details of my release."

The girls couldn't hear the response.

"No, no, that’s great. I just wanted to make sure the record was there. I also wanted to offer my personal thanks for the respect and courtesy your office treated me with. I know gifts to public officials are frowned upon, but I also know I'm friends with more than one of the Wayne kids. I hope your daughter has a beautiful wedding."

Ending the call, Danny smiled. Turning to Barbara with a bow, he addressed her.

"In and effort to repay your father, I would like to gift him the opportunity to walk his daughter down the aisle. Is that ok?"

As Danny moved some furniture, he gave the girls some direction.

"Steph, can you run down to my apartment and ask Jazz for my chalk and charcoal. And Cass, can you help Babs get changed into a spare bathing suit or something? It has to be synthetic fibers or it'll start growing. Sorry Babs, but I need to be able to get to your back and legs."

While he could just use ecto to heal her, Danny didn't want to make her anymore liminal than she already was. So, magic.

By the time the Babs and Cass made it back to the room, Danny had transcribed a large yinyang on the floor. The yin side was full of charcoal runes, the yang of chalk ones. As they entered, it began to glow a pearly white and sickly green

"Alright, Cass, Steph, I noticed your wards, and made sure my working won't effect them or the spare room."

Steph was grateful, and had many more concerns.

"Danny what the fuck?"

"Good question. So, death magic. As Mufase said, life is a circle, and death is a phase-"

"I am almost positive he didn’t say that."

"-Death magic without life is necromancy, and life without death is holy, and those are both bitches. I often confess to dabbling with death magic because people get more stressed when I bring up life, but them’s the bricks. Now, Babs, you hand."

Babs only hesitated a little, but eventually reached out. When Danny took her hand, she began floating into the circle. Danny turned her on her side, and rested his hand above the scar he saw.

"Now, this is going to itch."

Cass and Steph flinched as they saw Danny flex his fingers into Babs back. It looked like he had grabbed her spine. Babs began squirming as her back began to twitch.

"Bear with it, just a few more minutes."

As Danny worked, streams of black and green lights flowed into the apartment. They mixed with the yang side of the circle, and caused the yin light to strengthen. then the white light flowed up to gather at Danny's hand, sinking into Babs. Soon, Danny removed his hand, turning her so she now floated face up.

"Alright, that was the fun part. Now, this is gonna hurt, but only for a second."

At this, Danny put one hand on Babs back, the other grasping her foot. Barbara let out a cut off scream as a bolt of white lighting traveled between Danny's hands.

"Sorry, one more."

Switching legs, Danny shocked her again. With a frown, Danny noticed a problem. Leaning over to whisper to Babs, Cass and Steph saw her grimace and nod. They didn't see him brush the back of his hand over the front of her swimsuit, sending another shock through her.

"There, all nerves are live. Now, you've done great with your physical therapy, but lets build those muscles up."

Danny swept his hand over Barbara's legs, leaving a gap of a few inches between them. A soft white light radiated from his palm, and was seemingly absorbed into her skin. They saw her legs flesh out as the muscles were nourished. Soon enough, Danny was moving to lay Babs, now asleep, on the couch, tossing a blanket over her. Cass and Steph stepped to his side, eyeing the still functioning circle. Cass broke the ice.

"Danny."

"Cass."

"Danny."

"Cass."

She hit him.

"Alright, give me a minute, I'll clean it up."

With a gesture, the circle began to spin and contract. Soon, all that was left were a large black marble and two smaller white ones. Danny grabbed them, gave a white marble to Cass, and offered the other to Steph.

"Here, eat this."

"...No."

"Yes."

Steph refused, so Danny leaned over to whisper in Cass ear. She nodded, so Danny popped the marble into his mouth. Then, he swept Steph up. As she shouted, he kissed her.

Steph was not expecting that. But as Danny slide his tongue, and that damn marble, into her mouth, she couldn’t say she was that upset. All to soon, Danny broke the kiss. Steph glared at him, holding the marble in her mouth. He leaned in to whisper in her ear.

"Swallow."

And damn her if she did.

"That was not fair."

"Cass said I could, blame her."

Cass did not seem guilty in the slightest. She held her marble out to Danny.

"My turn."

Danny turned to Steph, cocking his head at her in question.

"Yes, yes go ahead."

Steph was surprised to learn watching Danny kiss Cass was almost as fun as kissing either of them herself.

As they waited for Babs to wake up, Cass asked about the marbles.

"Its the leftover energy from the spell. White for life. Black, well, really dark green, for death. The ones y’all took will restore you to peak condition. You should notice pretty much any scars, aches, and bruises will be gone by tomorrow. It will basically erase any sign of any injury, surgery, or sickness you've ever had. And the left over energy will make you heal quicker."

"And the black one?"

"Pure death. Imma have to handle that one carefully, but its not inherently dangerous."

He was actually just going to eat it, but semantics.

Steph was wondering if the marble could help Ellie, but didn't know how to ask. Finally, she found an angle.

"Could you use it to make shades stronger? So they aren't stuck to whoever killed them?"

"No, shades work on a slightly different wavelength. All ghosts do."

Cass jumped in.

"All ghosts? There are different types?"

Danny cursed his big mouth. He was trying to avoid ghost talk. Thankfully, Babs began waking up. They all moved to check on her, Danny placing hand on her shoulder to keep her from sitting up.

"Hold on, Babs, I got to check you out."

Somehow managing to draw with chalk in midair, Danny sketched a few runes that lit up in a rainbow of colors. With a smile, Danny stepped down to tickle Babs foot. She jerked away and froze.

"Congrats, Barbara, you can walk."

A few months later, Scarecrow was the next rouge to target Danny. Apparently, he had attempted to poison the water supply, and had spent months tracking down the person responsible for the new filters. Now, tied to a chair, Danny really hoped this didn't take all day. And the man didn't even have the courtesy to be in the room, leaving Danny alone with a camera trained on him.

"Hey, Straw man, can we wrap this up? I'm missing movie day."

With a hiss, fear toxin began filling the room. Danny rolled his eyes.

"Can I at least get a monologue? I swear, villains these days have no respect for the trade."

As the air turned spicy, Danny wondered when Scarecrow would give up. Aside from kicking his anxiety from a 5 to a 6, this was weak sauce, and Danny made sure to tell Scarecrow exactly that. It took another hour before the toxin cut off. The door soon burst open, Scarecrow slamming it behind him as he ran to hide behind Danny, sickle poised at his neck. Batman soon filled the doorway.

"Crane. Let him go."

"No, Batman, no. I must know why my toxin doesn't work."

Danny could see a flash of purple behind Batman, and decided to speed this up. Twisting unnaturally, he bit the sickle, feeling a quick flash of pain along his neck. As Scarecrow froze in confusion, Batman struck. The fight was brief, and Batman drug Scarecrow out of the room as Black Bat and Spoiler rushed in. Spoiler checked his wound while Black Bat untied him.

"Are you ok!?!"

"Why yes, kind vigilante, I am, thank you for asking."

Spoiler was barely surprised to see how fast his cut stopped bleeding. Black Bat came around, having freed his hands, to work on his feet.

"Any chance we can hurry this along? I am missing movie day with my beautiful neighbors as we speak."

Spoiler lightly bopped his head, while Black Bat gave him a flat stare. At the door, Nightwing cleared his throat.

"As adorable as this is, the police will need a statement from you, Danny."

With a sigh, Danny stood, offering a hand to help Black Bat up.

"Alas, kind vigilantes, I must go. If I could impose on you to give my neighbors my deepest regrets, and pledges of my undying affection, I would forever be in your debt. And remind Red Hood my sister's birthday is coming up."

By the time the police let Danny go, daylight was rapidly fading. He texted Cass and Steph as he came up the stairs, and the door was open by the time he reached their apartment.

"So, how was y'all's day?"

Cass pulled him into a hug, and Steph joined them. When they let go, Steph hit him.

"Can you please stop antagonizing the people who kidnap you?"

"You would not believe how many kidnappers know the answer to that question."

Cass reached up to touch his neck.

"Ok?"

"Yeah, its fine."

As they headed into the living room, Steph remembered something and grimaced.

"Oh, and Bats knows you know."

Danny sighed and dramatically draped himself over the couch.

"Yeah, I figured he did. Curse those vigilantes and their feminine charms, they wiled out my secrets!"

Steph rolled her eyes and sat on his stomach.

"Yeah, yeah. We told him we knew, and how long, so he seems to have chilled. But you and Jazz are invited to family dinner next week, so clear your schedule."

"Huzzah! I will finally meet the ever elusive Alfred and Duke. Need me to bring anything?"

"Just Jazz, so Jason actually shows up."

Cass finished setting up the movie, and came to join them. She nudged Danny into lifting his head, and sat so he could lay in her lap. Steph settled in to lay on Danny, and Cass began playing with both of their hair.

The movie ended, and Danny realized he was the only one awake. Moving slowly, he got out from under Steph and laid her in Cass's lap. Seeing the sleepy glares from the two, he pressed a quick kiss to each of their lips and covered them up with a nearby blanket. They snuggled in and were asleep quickly. Laughing gently, he headed out to wander the streets of Gotham, maddingly unaware of Ellie's Core, glowing softly a room away.

Steph and Cass were late for dinner. Which normally wouldn't be a big deal, but it was, because Danny and Jazz were not late for dinner. Neither girl wanted to imagine what topics their family would bring up without them there to threaten them into silence. They burst into the dining room.

"Oh look, they're here."

The family was waiting, Alfred at the ready to serve the meal. Everyone was sitting except Damian, who had a knife to Danny's throat. No one but Bruce and Dick seemed concerned by this.

"Master Damian."

The boy sat down, and Danny rose and circled the table to pull out the girls' chairs across from where he sat.

"Man, you guys missed some lore."

As Alfred served the food, Danny caught them up.

"So, fun fact, I know Damian's grandpa."

"...What."

"Yeah, hate the guy. Damian mentioned his full name, I recognized the Ah Ghul part, he assumed I was a threat, and then y'all showed up."

"...Danny, I think we may need a little more than that."

"Alfred told me after dinner, so after dinner it is."

"Quite right, Mister Danny. Now, everyone, dig in."

Despite Bruce's best efforts, dinner was a lovely affair. It wasn't until they entered the sitting room that Alfred let him ask his questions.

"So, Danny, how do you know Ra's?"

"Originally, time travel. More recently, I plan to kill him at the first opportunity."

Tim broke the silence, turning to Bruce.

"B, we are only unpacking one of those tonight so choose carefully."

Danny laughed.

"Don't bother, only two of y'all would get an answer. Lets focus on the identity stuff, ok?"

Bruce acquiesced under the combined glare of his daughters.

"...Very well. How did you find out?"

"I recognized Spoiler and Black Bat right off, and Nightwing and the Robins thereafter."

"How did you recognize them?"

"Their eyes."

"That’s it?"

"That’s everything, Bruce. The eyes are the windows to the soul. I saw them, and they saw me."

"...Is that a common ability?"

"In my circles, yes. But my circles only rarely walk this side of reality, and any who do aren't usually interested in mortal affairs."

Before he could ask another question, Danny cut him off.

"That's the end of Q and A, Bruce. The only way you will get more is after Ra's is dead."

At this Damian growled.

"And who are you to think you could kill the Demon Head!"

Danny turned to the boy.

"Are you mad I’m underestimating him, worried I could do it, or worried I will fail?"

Damian looked at the ground. His family was surprised when he answered I a small voice.

"All of them."

Danny sighed.

"Damian, I know you love him, and I know you know he needs to be stopped. I will not ask your permission or forgiveness, because that is too much for you to decide. But I promise you, I know more than most what he is capable of. We trained under the same master. That’s when we first met. And he never bested me then, and I assure you he will not do so now. Not to mention, he is unaware that I am the one standing against him. What ever happens, his sins will never fall to you."

As Danny finished, he gave Damian a brief hug. The boy stood and left the room. Danny sighed.

"He is determined to bear the sins his family created, and it will break him if he tries. Watch him, Bruce."

The conversation had moved on to lighter talks of the wedding, and Danny couldn't wait to see Dick when Babs walked down the aisle. As of now, only Cass, Steph, and Danny knew she could walk. Eventually, everyone turned in for the night. Having been invited to stay over, but not tired in the slightest, Danny found himself wandering the grounds at midnight. He chucked at the sheer umber of cameras he could hear buzzing away, and busied himself finding blind spots. Soon he found himself sitting along the wall of the manor in the only one larger than a few square feet. Here, about 8 feet of wall was out of view, as long as you stayed within a few feet of it. Cass found him there after an hour. She pulled him to his feet.

"Sleep."

Laughing as she dragged him down the hall, he raised a brow when they passed the room given to him. Instead, they entered her room, where Steph was waiting, perched at the end of the bed. Cass joined her.

"Alfred would kill me."

Steph pointed to Danny's duffle bag by the door.

"That was here when we came to bed."

"...Well all right then. Mind if I borrow your shower?"

At their nods, Danny grabbed his bag and headed into the bathroom. Turning on the water to drown out the whispers from the other room, he busied himself with, very firmly, not thinking about anything other than hygiene for the next 20 minutes. As he finished up, pulling a pair of pants on, he hesitated. He usually didn't sleep with a shirt....he decided to pull one on anyway.

Exiting the room, he saw Cass and Steph still at the end of the bed, blinking at him owlishly. he smiled.

"Couldn't figure out a plan, could you."

They pouted, and Danny laughed as he moved to stand at the foot of the bed.

"How far did you get, hm?"

Steph answered.

"Cass went to find you, and brought you here...and that’s it."

"Solid start. Are you both ready for bed?"

They hesitated, then nodded. Danny shook his head.

"Hey, communication, remember? What’s wrong?"

Cass spoke up.

"We usually,...wear less to sleep."

"Same. But are you comfortable with me being here for that?"

"We aren't not comfortable with it?"

Steph chimed in.

"How do you usually sleep?"

"Just the pants. But I know my scars ae a lot, and that y'all were nervous enough as it is."

"...We usually do the same, just the shorts."

Seeing the distress on their faces, Dann stepped closer to pat their heads.

"I do remember seeing y’all’s shirts on the floor one morning. I take it that usually happens if you sleep in a shirt?"

Their silence was an answer.

"Then how about you keep them on, and we deal with whatever in the morning. I promise to only stare a little."

They smacked him with a laugh. Steph stood, tugging at his shirt.

"You can take this off if you want, we don't mind."

Danny complied, and Steph looked at the bed with a critical eye.

"Now, for the logistics. For simplicities sake, Danny will be in the middle. We can revisit the arrangement if needed."

They turned out the light and settled in, both girls using Danny as a pillow.

She woke to Danny’s hand tracing patterns on her back, and could see him doing the same for Cass, who was basking in the attention. She could also see, and feel, that neither of them had kept their damn shirts on. Fortunately, between the blanket and how they were lying, Danny hadn't gotten a free show. Seeing she was awake, Cass slide across Danny to give her kiss. Steph could see how her breasts pillowed against Danny's chest. And she felt as his hand stuttered as he traced her back. Laughing, she gave Cass a look, just for her to shrug with a smile.

"Good morning, girls. How'd y'all sleep?"

The girls lifted their heads to see Danny staring towards the ceiling. Steph slide up to press a kiss to his cheek, laughing as she felt him shiver again.

"Pretty good, how about you."

"Fantastically. Cass?"

"Good."

Cass followed Steph up, and the girls now lay with their heads on Danny's arms. If he looked down, he would see all they had to offer. Instead, he turned to the side, pulling Cass up and over him as he slide his arm out from under Steph. With out looking, he pulled the blanket up and over them.

"If y'all don't mind, imma grab a quick shower."

As he grabbed his bag and headed across the room, Cass gave Stephanie a look. After a quick thought she nodded back at her, and Cass called out.

"Danny."

"Yes."

"Come here."

As Danny walked back to the bedside, Cass sat up, letting the blanket fall. She held her hands up to Danny.

"Kiss me."

She watched as Danny took her in, eyes roaming form her face to her chest and back. He leaned down, letting her wrap her arms around him as he lifted her to his chest, kissing her deeply. Steph saw him reach down to grab her ass, supporting her as he stood. As soon as Danny broke away, Cass pulled him back in. Danny turned and sat back on the bed. Steph took the opportunity to slide behind him, pressing her breasts against his back as she reached around to tickle Cass.

"Hey, my turn."

Cass pouted as Danny lifted her up, standing her in front of him. Steph pulled him back, climbing over him to straddle him as she kissed him. She felt his hands on her ass, and arched into him, dragging her nipples across his chest. She leaned back to catch her breath and saw him staring at her chest.

"You call this a little staring?"

"Hey, I tried to leave. Y’all stopped me."

Cass was standing between his legs, and reached around Steph to give her a hand bra.

"Better?"

"No, not at all actually."

With a sigh, Danny sat up, moving Steph down to stand next to Cass. Neither girl moved to cover themselves.

"Look, I'm going to shower, and you two are going to finish waking up. I've noticed you both have a tendency to push each other as motivation, but this is enough for now, ok? Slow down, before we do something someone regrets."

Danny was, unfortunately correct. Without him in the room, both girls immediately turned red.

"God, I can't believe we did that. What the hell, Cass? Are we crazy?"

"Maybe a little. But it was good?"

"Hell yeah it was good, but still. No more snap decisions, ok? Better to miss an opening than burn it all down"

"Ok."

After lightly drowning himself in the shower, Danny felt ready to face the day. Walking out, he saw the girls, shirts on thankfully, sitting on the bed. As he walked over, Steph jumped up, heading in for her own shower. Danny sat next to Cass.

"Everything ok?"

"Yes, but you were right. we self-combusted."

"Yeah, we should probably come up with a game plan."

After Steph came out, Cass went in, and the trio were soon wishing Alfred a pleasant week as the left the Manor.

The week had been a busy one, and it was Saturday before the trio was able to get together for more than a quick meal out. Cass was preparing for a recital, while Danny and Steph had exams. They were meeting for lunch in Danny's apartment, Jazz and Jason joining them, before heading out for the evening. they had just started eating when Danny felt a tug in his chest. Cursing, he set down his sandwich.

"Nobody freak-out. I'm just going to vanish for a bit. Jazz, say nothing."

And poof, he was gone.

Summonings were the worst, mostly because of how boring they were. Although this one may change that. He was summoned as the Ghost King, and took that form. He resembled a lamia, with a long coiling tail of the cosmos. His upper body wore armor, and his face was all but lost in his mane of burning white hair. All that could clearly be seen were his blazing green eyes and the void of his grin.

"John Constantine. And what can the Ghost King do for you?"

"Greetins, Your Majesty. The Justice League of Earth requested I summon ya."

Danny looked around the room and, yep, that’s the Justice League. Super.

"Well, here I am. King Phantom, as you wished"

Batman stepped forward.

"King Phantom, I wanted to ask you about any issues your people may have with the governments of Earth."

"Hmm, I assume you somehow managed to discover Amity Park?"

"Yes."

"Then you should know the answer already. I have dealt with the GiW."

"Yes, but I was hoping to know of any other issues you may have, so that we may handle them for you."

"Why?"

"Because if our people cause the problem, we should fix it."

"That's good, but not what I meant. Why now? Amity was hidden, how did you find it."

Batman hesitated, and Wonder Woman stepped forward.

"It was you ambassador, King Phantom. Danny Nightingale ran into some trouble in Batman's domain, and was forces to claim immunity. I was called in to verify his claim."

Danny was silent. Batman gritted his teeth and elaborated.

"Danny is also close to my children, so I took a greater interest then normal, King Phantom. I apologize for any offense."

This is great, Danny thought. Batman can never know who I am now.

"No offense taken, Batman. Children can inspire the greatest in those who love them. Great good, and great evil."

"...You have a child, King Phantom?"

"Yes, one who has been taken from me. Even now, I search for her. And for the ones who took her from me."

"Is their any assistance we can offer?"

"Yes. Stay out of my way. And please do not spread word of my peoples' existence. You will find all forms of records you have made of us disappearing over the next few days. I have decreed that no further record of my people can be made"

The surrounding heros were silent, and Batman quickly lifted his gauntlet to check his records. And was shocked to see the notes he had made a few days ago were gone. He looked back at Danny.

"May I ask how?"

"Of course. I once was in possession of an artifact known as the Reality Gauntlet."

The watching magic-users blanched and explained to the others.

"When I destroyed it, a portion of it's powers became mine."

Danny gave them time to process, and Batman soon thanked him for the information and his time.

"It was nothing, Batman. I will allow you to summon me again if needed. My power is great, and I hold much love for this Realm."

Glancing around the room, he noticed someone standing in the shadows.

"You, child. Step forward."

Everyone bristled as Raven moved to the front. She was tense as Danny leaned forward, easily bypassing the circle's boundary. He inspected the jewel at her brow and scoffed.

"Trigon, of course. I despise those who consider their children as tools. Child, if you ever wish to rid yourself of him, you may call on me. I assure you my terms will be fair."

With a gesture, Danny unsummoned himself. It was probably the bit of magic he loved the most. Reappearing at the table, he finished his sandwich as three people stared.

"Yeah, so, I can be summoned."

They had adjourned to the living room. Jazz and Jason shared the recliner, and Danny hated how cute they looked. He took a picture. Cass and Steph sat on the couch behind him, while he sat on the floor, leaning back between their legs.

"Like a fucking demon?"

"Technically, anything can be summoned. The rules for summoning humans are just really, really specific."

"Stop dropping life-altering facts to derail the conversation, Danny."

"Fine, Jason. Yes, like a demon."

Cass tapped his head.

"Should we be concerned?"

"Nah, it's just inconvenient. Demons have a lot of rules and stuff. I just get teleported. In fact..."

Danny jumped up to go to his room. Coming back, he had a charcoal pen.

"Give me your hands."

Steph and Cass held out their hands, and Danny sketched a circle on their palms. With a flash, the marks faded into their skin, disappearing.

"There. With that, you can both summon me if needed. Just think about it, the mark will show up, and press against literally anything solid. And I strongly request you not show that to anyone. More than enough people summon me as is."

"And why is that?"

Turning back to Jason, Danny smirked.

"Reasons."

Unsurprisingly, Steph had been out of the room for less than a minute before Danny felt the pull of a summons. She had claimed to forget something in her apartment. As he appeared a floor up, he laughed at her expression.

"Did you think I was lying?"

Before she could answer, Cass summoned him back downstairs.

They had had a great night out. Diner, ice cream, and a walk around the Wayne Botanical Gardens. They were now heading up the street to their apartment, debating whether or not ice cream flavors should be mixed together. The debate raged until they reached the girls apartment, and a truce was called. The trio sat around the table sipping cocoa when Danny broached the topic.

"So, how do y'all want to manage this?"

The girls were stumped. They had told Danny that they were going to cool it with the snap decisions, but didn't necessarily know what else to do.

"How about this. Lets try hanging out in pairs more often, not just all three of us. It'll give us a chance to focus in a little more."

The girls thought about it, and didn't see any issues.

"Cool. In that case. Steph. Would you like to accompany me to see the lovely Cassandra Cain in her recital next Thursday?"

Danny knew Cass always ate with her dance team after the opening show.

"I would be honored, but only of you promise to help me pamper her when she gets home."

Danny also knew her feet and legs would be killing her after the double showing opening night, and Stephanie always gave her a massage.

"Deal. And Cass, I was planning on making the dazzling Miss Brown a cake to celebrate finishing her exams next Friday. Care to assist me?"

Cass loved helping in the kitchen. It was how Alfred connected with her before she could talk.

"I would."

As the girls laughed at Danny's silliness, Cass was curious.

"Why those things?"

"Easy. Steph loves to be seen, and you love the little things. For obvious reasons, these are things that you guys can't usually do together, but still involve us all. And both dates will end with all three of us having a good time."

Steph was loving this date. While she had gone out to Cass's recitals before, the differences between going with family and going with a date were night and day. She felt like a princess, and couldn't help but laugh at herself for it. She was wearing a lovely dress, purple, of course. It had a halter neckline, left her back bare, and had a fantastic slit at the leg. She had caught Danny staring twice already.

They had enjoyed a lovely dinner, and it had taken some time to adjust to Danny's focus being solely on her. She no longer had Cass to deflect to when his flirts hit her hard, and occasionally found herself turning to share a look with someone who wasn't there. Still, she adjusted, and was enjoying herself.

Arriving at the concert hall, she took Danny's had as he escorted her inside. Finding their seats, she saw Danny looking around the private box.

"Bruce has a box in every hall Cass dances in. We all try to make it to opening night, but with the wedding coming up, Tim and Bruce are putting extra hours in at the company. Dick and Jason are out tonight with Babs covering them. Damian has school, and Duke refused to be the only other one here."

"You mean to say I am being forced to share this entire private box with my lovely date? Tragic."

Steph laughed, and the pair settled into their seats. Danny had his arm around her, tracing lines on her arm that had her shivering when the show began. As the dancers moved on stage, they both let out a sigh as Cass sprung into view.

Intermission came soon, and they both stood up to stretch, Looking over the crowd, Danny did a double take.

"Isn't that Selina?"

Danny had seen pictures of her, but had yet to meet Bruce's elusive fiancé. Steph followed his gaze.

"Yep."

Taking out her phone, she fired off a quick text. The answer came soon.

"She said hello, and that she would love to meet you at a later date, as she's a little busy."

"Sounds good."

Danny saw Selina looking up at them, and offered a brief salute. Steph turned to put her phone away, only to jump when she straightened up to find him right in front of her.

"Don't do-"

Danny cut her off with a kiss. Her arms came up to circle his neck as she grumbled against his lips. Breaking away for a breath, she glared.

"That is not a viable method to justify scaring me."

Danny laughed, and took his seat, pulling her to sit across his lap. One hand on her back, his other came up, stroking along the slit in her dress, exposing her leg. He pressed a kiss to her bare shoulder.

"Did  mention how much I love your dress?"

"You could stand to mention it more."

The intermission ended at the perfect time, as Steph was about 3 kisses away from either death or public indecency. She reluctantly returned to her own seat, and they both watched the second act closely. Finally, the recital concluded, and they joined in on the applause. As the dancers took their bows, Danny muttered a quick pair of spells, sending a shower of petals dancing down to the stage and his whispered "Beautiful" to Cass's ears.

As they made their way up to her apartment, Steph was a bundle of nerves. Which, in all honesty, pissed her off. Like, she knew what was going to happen. She had already kissed Danny, he had seen almost all of her, and, not two hours prior, she had been all but ready to jump him semi-publicly. Hanging out for a few hours why they waited for Cass shouldn't be that big of a deal. That being said, it kinda was. they were going to be alone, like, really alone, for almost two hours. And that made her nervous. No matter the talks they had had, or what they had already done, this was still the first truly one-on-one time they would have.

"I can hear you overthinking from here."

Steph started, surprised to find herself at her door. Flicking her hair at Danny, she unlocked the door and lead the way inside. As Danny set her bag on the table, she made her way to the bedroom to get out of her dress and heels. As she got ready for a quick shower, she hesitated.

"Hey Danny?"

"Yeah?"

"I'm gonna take a quick shower."

"Ok."

"...Can you come talk to me?"

Silence answered her, but Danny soon peeked into the room. He had changed from is fancy clothes into shorts and a tee shirt.

"Steph?"

At this point, a towel was all that covered her. She tossed it over a hook, and climbed into the stall, sliding the door half-way closed. The glass was perfectly clear, and she could feel Danny looking at her as she started the water

"Cass always sits with me. Mostly because I prefer my water hotter, so we don't go in together often."

As she began washing her hair, she smiled.

"Honestly, it was our thing well before we were a thing. Before Cass, I was alone. Babs was already Oracle, so I had no other girls to talk to. I hated it. It's the main reason I dated Tim. I was terrified of Bruce throwing me out, and he was still tore up about Jason. But then Cass came, and she would sit with me. She still couldn't talk, but she was there, and that's what mattered."

Rinsing her hair, she turned to smile at Danny.

"That's why I was so afraid when I realized I liked you. I had a dream about you, you know. About all three of us, together, and I felt like I was betraying her. But even then, she was there for me, laughing. I was panicking, and all she said was thinking you were hot wasn't a crime."

She hadn't realized she was crying until Danny was there, pulling her into a hug at the edge of the shower.

"You're gonna get wet."

"Oh no."

As she settled, she pulled back to smile at Danny.

"Thanks."

She finished her shower quickly, and Danny passed her towel over. As soon as she was wrapped up, he guided her to stand in front of him, and helped her dry and brush her hair.

"You're good at braids?"

"Yeah, I use to do Jazz's for her. Then she turned 12 and decided they were for little girls. Then, I did them for my friends at school, until halfway through middle when it became 'too girly.'"

Danny finished her hair, and handed her her robe. Steph was impressed, he was doing a good job staying cool considering she was basically naked. If not for him blushing, she may have been insulted.

"When did you decide braids weren't 'too girly' anymore?"

"Junior year. There were these two girls, Paulina and Star. All high school, they were the top of the school, the A-List, and some of the people who made my life hell. But back in elementary and middle, they were my friends. I use to play with their hair every day. One day, halfway through Junior year, I found them behind the school after a football game they were cheering at. Some guys from the other school had caught them together and were giving them a hard time. They had them on the ground. I called out for help, and our entire defensive line heard me. I got the girls out while they handled the guys."

They had made it back to the living room, and Danny sat, pulling her into his lap again. She leaned her back against his chest as he wrapped his arms around her. Her robe barely came down to mid-thigh, and he began tracing his fingertips along her bare legs.

"They were in shock, and were so focused on how messy they were. I had some wipes on my, and handed them over. While they cleaned up, I braided. It was the first positive interaction we had had together in nearly 7 years. When the team found us, they had gotten themselves together, and were bragging about their hair being 'so stylish.' By the end of the year, we were talking again."

The rumble of his voice so close to her had Steph drifting to sleep. They stayed like that for the next hour, only getting up when Cass texted she was on her way. Steph got everything together for her massage, and waited with Danny.

When Cass came through the door, she was exhausted. And not necessarily just from dancing. The dinner after opening was special, and Cass did enjoy it, but socializing took so much out of her. She dropped her bag and stumbled into Danny, who easily lifted her.

"Come on, ballerina, lets get you to the bath."

Danny carried Cass to her room, where Steph had already drawn her bath, filled with pleasant smelling oils and salts. When Danny set Cass down on the bed, he turned to Steph.

"You want to get in with her?"

Steph drew back and laughed when Cass answered for her.

"She does. Danny, clothes."

"Yes ma'am."

While Steph hung her robe, Danny slowly stripped Cass. She had just pulled loungewear over her ballet tights, and he was carful not to rip anything. As he finished, Cass held her arms out to him, loving how his eyes explored her body.

"Carry me."

Danny complied, bringing her to the bath and settling her in front of Steph.

"I'll come get y'all in half an hour or so, ok?"

As the girls soaked, Danny got the rest of the night squared away. He tossed some towels in the dryer to warm, warmed up the massage oil, contemplated weather his sanity and best intentions would survive the night, and cleaned up the bag Cass had dropped in the doorway.

Once it was time, he went to get his girls. Steph dried herself off, getting back into her robe, and Danny bundled Cass up, and brought her over to the bed. He set her down, and she rolled over to lie on her stomach. Steph brought over the massage oil and offered it to Danny.

"You get her legs, I'll get her back."

Danny moved to the foot of the bed and watched as Steph climbed up to straddle Cass's back. Her robe was more than short enough to give Danny an eyeful. He began massaging Cass feet, drawing a pleased hum from her. As he worked his way up her calves, his eyes strayed to Steph. She alternated between rubbing Cass's shoulders and leaning down to press kisses to her neck. Every time she did, Danny could see her core, and it was a fight to stay on task.  Especially once her got to her thighs. Now, Steph's butt would rest on his hands as she sat back. The first time they touched had her jumping in surprise, and turning a blazing red as she realized the show she was giving Danny. She soon pivoted off of Cass, allowing Danny to work relatively unhindered. As his hands moved closed to her core, Cass had begun fidgeting, and Danny had brushed against her slit several times before moving on to her butt. When he grasped her, Cass let out a loud moan. As his control frayed, he finished working the oil into her skin. Only for his mouth to dry as she turned over with a demand.

"More."

Danny moved back down to her shins, holding her ankle in one hand as he helped her stretch out a bit before working more oil into her legs. All the while, he watched as Steph began oiling her stomach and working her way up. While he rubbed her thighs, Steph began working her breasts, and Cass rolled her head back with a moan. Steph gestured for him to move to Cass's other side, and they finished the massage with her arms. By then, Cass had drifted off to sleep. Danny began cleaning up the room while Steph got Cass under the covers. She then followed Dann out into the laundry room, laughing when she found him with his face buried in his arms.

"Problems?"

"Just the one, actually."

Steph glanced down.

"Pretty big one, it seems."

Danny glared at her. He moved swiftly, lifting her up and pushing her against the wall. Her legs immediately wrapped around him. Her robe had ridden up, and as her kissed roughly she could feel his erection rubbing against her slit through his shorts. She pulled him in with her legs, grinding against his dick. It wasn't long before he broke away, lowering her gently to the floor. She looked up at him, desire burning in her eyes.

"You have test tomorrow, get to bed. I'm going home before I lose my mind."

"Wait, I need a favor. I'm leaving at 8 for exams tomorrow, but Cass probably won't be up until 10. I know y'all were planning for your date at noon, but could you be here early? I don't want her waking up alone. Sometimes her legs are still bothering her the next day and she needs help stretching."

As she spoke, Danny stepped close, gathering the edges of her robe and pulling it shut. He kissed her again, gently, and nodded.

"No problem, I can come see you off."

After he left, Steph collapsed into bed, burning with more than just embarrassment.

The next morning, Danny made sure to wake up early enough to make a trip to a nearby coffee shop. He presented Steph with her favorite latte as she opened the door.

"I love you."

Danny laughed.

"Me or the coffee?"

"Yes."

Danny entered, and helped her make sure she had everything she needed. He had finished his exams the week prior. Soon enough, she was on her way out the door after pulling him down for a kiss.

"I'll text when I'm on my way home."

"Good luck!"

Danny had brought most of the ingredients for the cake over the day prior, and set out prepping the kitchen for baking. As the clock edged towards 10, he also took time to make Cass a quick snack. Soon enough, she emerged from her room, a blanket bundled around her, hair messy. She slumped at the table. Danny set a parfait in front of her.

"Morning. How are you feeling."

"Sleepy. Legs hurt."

"Eat up, and then I'll help you stretch, ok?"

Cass did so slowly. fortunately, by the time she finished she was more awake. Danny led her to the living room, pulling out her yoga mat.

"Come sit and-"

He cut off as Cass finally set the blanket on the couch.

"..Actually, how about you get dressed first."

Cass looked down and promptly turned red. Danny enjoyed watching just how far her blush spread. She snatched he blanket back up and glared, moving back to her room. She soon emerged, this time in shorts and a tank top.

"Now come sit and give me your foot."

Danny slowly helped her stretch her tight muscles, enjoying the fact she had forgone a bra. Cass preened every time she caught him staring, and began doing more complicated stretched to catch his eye. They finished the exercises around 11, and had an early lunch. Cass read through some messages on her phone, including one from Steph about Danny's 'trouble' the night before. The girls had promised each other any and all details, more so neither would feel guilty of any progress made.

It was soon time to bake. Cass had decided on a lemon cake, Steph's favorite, with a purple vanilla icing. As they began mixing the ingredients, Cass was soon glaring down at a splash of vanilla on her shirt.

"I think I saw an apron in the laundry room."

Cass soon found the item, most likely a gift from Alfred. She went to tie it on, but had a better idea.

Danny heard Cass get back, and she was soon next to him again at the mixing bowl. As he turned to add the next batch of dry ingredients, he drew up short. Cass smiled up at him.

"Yes?"

Danny sighed. Cass had replaced her shirt with the apron, and only that and her shorts covered her.

"Not a thing, Cass."

They quickly got the cake in the oven, timer set, with Cass only mildly causing distractions. As they went to the living room, Danny touched Cass shoulder with a smile.

"You should leave the apron in the kitchen. Otherwise, the couch could get dirty."

Cass looked down. Her efforts to distract Danny had left her a little messier than she might have been otherwise. As she hesitated, Danny chuckled before stepping past her into the other room. Cass decided she was going to win, and hung the apron off a cabinet handle before joining him on the couch. Danny's eyes followed her as she moved to sit next to him. Her bravado faded, and she crossed her arms over her chest. At that, Danny turned away, turning the TV on.

As they sat, Cass slowly relaxed. Aside from quick glances, Danny seemed engrossed on the show. Soon, Cass had leaned into his side, and he had raised his arm so she could snuggle against his. As she fully relaxed, she soon had begun to doze off. Only to shiver as Danny began tracing his hand up and down her forearm. She glanced up at him, and he simply kept watching the TV. But she could see that his attention was not on the show. She fidgeted against him as he touched her, and she began wondering how to ask him for more. She blushed remembering her demands from the night before, but her exhaustion had given her strength. Or at lest killed her shame. Danny could tell he was getting to Cass. She had been fidgeting and shooting him glances for a while. Fortunately, it should be just about time...

Cass had finally worked up the courage to ask for more, when a loud beep had her jumping. Danny smirked.

"That’s the cake. You can stay, I'll go set it to cool. Be right back."

He was back a few minutes later, and found her pouting, with a blanket around her shoulders. He smiled at her, and called out softly.

"Hey Cass?

"Mm?"

"Do you want to sit how we were, or move around? We don't have to start the icing for a bit, and  I set an alarm to remind us."

Cass realized Danny was giving her back the opening the timer had ruined.

"....Can I sit I your lap?"

"Of course."

Danny sat with his back against the arm of the couch, legs extended along the length, and Cass climbed to sit between his legs, with her back to his chest. She maneuvered the blanket over them, and grabbed his hands to pull them around her. She settled in, and leaned her head back to smile up at him. Like this, her head rested at his sternum

As they watched TV, Cass felt Danny's hands stroking over her once again. This time, he was splaying his fingers across her thighs, gently scratching her skin. Occasionally, he would brush across her inner thighs, dangerously close to her core. Once again, she wondered how to ask for more. Only to realize she didn't necessarily need to ask. She grabbed at one of his hands hesitantly, and he gave it to her immediately, the other still moving along her leg with maddening gentle strokes. She felt no resistance as she brought his hand to rest on her stomach, and he immediately began stroking her skin. His thumb brushed against her underboob with each stroke, and she shivered. As she continued to work up her courage, she jumped a little when he called out to her.

"Is it ok if I move you a bit?"

She nodded, and his hands went to her hips. He lifted her and shifted them around, and she found herself sitting on his lap now, her head resting just under his chin. She could also feel his dick nestled against her ass. He placed his hands back where she had left them. She shivered as he spoke near her ear.

"This ok?"

She nodded quickly. They sat like that for a few more minutes while Cass adjusted, and then she turned a little to look up at him. Before she could ask, Danny leaned down to capture her lips. By the time they broke apart, she was panting and her back was complaining about her awkward position. As she turned back with a huff, she let out a surprised hum that turned into a moan when Danny began nibbling at her ears. His hand at her stomach tightened against her as she squirmed, holding her in place. She moaned louder that time, drawing out his name.

"Dannyyy. Please."

He moved his hand up from her stomach, and ghosted it across her nipples under the blanket. It was suddenly too hot, and Cass threw it off. She grabbed his hand, firmly pressing it against her boob. He immediately began fondling her, his other hand coming up as well. All the while, he continued to kiss and bite at her ear. She was a mess, and could feel his dick hardening under her. As she began pulling at his hand, desperate for him to give her more, he began to slow down. Cass strongly protested that.

"We only have a few more minutes until we need to finish the cake, Cass. Slow down, we have all the time in the world, ok?"

"...fine. But keep touching me until then."

"Of course."

Steph returned home around 3, exams complete, to her favorite cake and a topless girlfriend, so today was really working out well. Danny being there, unfortunately fully clothed, made it even better.

"Not that I'm complaining, but, Cass, where's your shirt? And are those fingerprints?"

Danny and Cass looked at her boobs, and saw the light bruises. Cass went to get a shirt while Steph gave Danny a high-five.

The reconvened for cake and coffee, and after, while Danny did the dishes, Cass gave Steph the story behind the bruises. They then spent a few minutes psyching themselves up for what they wanted to ask Danny. They may have overdone it as, as soon as he walked in, Steph blurted out their request with a shout

"Do you want to spend the night!"

Silence rang throughout the room, and Steph hid her face while Cass shook with barely contained laughter. Danny walked over and wrapped an arm around Steph, waiting until she lifted her head.

"While I would love too, I don't think I would fit. I wondered last night, but why do y'all sleep in on a full size mattress? Your dad is literally Bruce Wayne."

Cass answered proudly.

"For cuddles."

"Excellent reason, but I can barely fit in a full alone."

Steph was prepared.

"Our dad's literally Bruce Wayne. We can have a queen here by tonight."

"While I appreciate the enthusiasm, can we take a rain check this week? I have to go look around the city, I missed the last few nights, albeit for an excellent reason"

The girls mood dropped considerable, and Steph asked hesitantly.

"Danny...who exactly are you looking for?"

"...This requires another lore-dump. You guys sure you want that today?"

They were nodding before he finished the question. Danny sighed, and flopped onto the couch. The girls sat on either side of him, nestled under his arms.

"I wasn't the first casualty to my parents inventions. The first prototype, back when they were in college, struck their friend in the face. He was hospitalized, in Gotham, actually, and they lost touch. He was changed, similar to how I was, if not to the same degree. 20 years later, he tracked them down. He had healed poorly, and it left his mind corrupted. He wanted to kill my dad, and marry my mom in revenge. Then, he saw me, and realized we were the same. He kept trying to turn me to his side. When that didn't work...he cloned me. His name is Plasmius."

The girls were silent.

"Unfortunately, our kind is ridiculously difficult to clone. You need three separate DNA samples, one of which is hard to get. He began sending the fail results after me, and they would literally fall apart at a blow. And then...and then Dani showed up.  She was a hybrid, like me, and I was so happy to not be alone. I still didn't know what was going on, and she claimed to be my cousin. She helped me fight, and when Plasmius showed up we beat him together. Right up until she shot me in the back. I woke up in his lab, and begged her to let me go. She told me she couldn't, that this was the only way for her to live. After Plasmius got the sample, he left her to die. She was literally falling apart in front of me, but still struggled to set me free. She did, and I was able to use one of my parents inventions to save her. I tried to get her to stay, but she wanted to find herself, so she left."

Danny gave them time to process, and continued when they looked back up at him.

"She was 12 when I met her, I was 14. She popped in every now and then, and the last time a saw her, about 2 years ago, she barely looked any older. We both knew she wasn't fully stable, but she wanted to spend her life on her own terms, so I always let her go. The only way to fully heal her, would be for her to break down first, and we had no way to know how that would affect her."

They felt him shaking, and wrapped him in their arms. He was crying as he finished his story.

"I love her. She calls herself my sister, but that year, before she disappeared...she got me a Father's Day card. She played it off, like a joke, but I could see the fear in her eyes, the fear I would reject her. I had got her a 'World's Best Daughter' shirt, and was going to give it to her when I saw her...but before then, she was gone. Our powers connect us, and in her terror, I could feel her body falling apart. As she went into stasis, I could sense the energy around her, and used it to narrow down where she could be. And Gotham's the best match. My older brother is checking the other cities. While searching, he came across a League of Assassins base that was soaked in her energy, in her blood. He has been tearing them apart throughout Europe and Asia. But I know Ra's, and he will come for her himself. The Waters of Lazarus are nothing compared to our powers."

Steph had a question.

"Danny, what exactly can you do? You said before you look different with your powers. What was on the other side of your parent's portal?"

"...Gods, demons, angles, the fae, and pretty much any other magical being you could think of. My parents punched a hole into the Infinite Realms. And my powers are...pretty much all of them. I get new ones basically all the time, and forget about the rest daily. For my basic set, thing Superman, Martian Manhunter, and Green Lantern all in one."

The girls were so happy Bruce didn't know this. Cass was curious.

"Can we see?"

"Not right now. I can't use my powers in Gotham. If I do, it leaves a residue in the city, and it would mask Dani from my senses. It's why I use magic instead. But when I find her, I'll show you."

Cass nodded, and then though back to his story.

"Brother?"

"Also complicated. Relatively rehabilitated alternate timeline amalgation of my negative psyche and Plasmius' powers that ended humanity following the death of everyone I love 10 years in his past doesn't roll of the tongue as well. He goes by Dante now."

Steph blinked, and covered Cass mouth as she opened it.

"I think that's enough for now."

Cass considered, and nodded. Steph removed her hand. They sat I silence, processing everything until, nearly an hour later, Danny's phone went off. He reached out to the table to check it. With a groan, he stood.

"It's Jazz. Our parent's called, and are asking for me."

He gave each girl a kiss, and headed downstairs.

The call lasted entirely too long, and when it finally ended, Danny threw himself to the couch. Jazz came over to pat his head.

"You ok?"

"...I told them about Vlad and Dani. And Dante."

"...And?"

"...They took it fairly well, I think."

"At this point, do they know everything?"

"Not about the ghosts, but everything else."

Jazz was confused.

"Danny, at this point, why not tell them? It seems...excessively complicated."

Danny sat up, and rested his head in his hands. Jazz sat next to him, her arm around him.

"It's just...at first, they were just our cool neighbors. A couple of normal, attractive women I could flirt with and have fun. Be normal. And then we got closer, and I showed them the magic. Cuz yeah, magic's weird, but its normal weird, not Fenton weird. And I figured it would be a good cover for when I inevitable slipped up. But then...."

At this, Danny stood up, pacing angrily. Jazz watched him, knowing this was a long time coming.

"But then I fell in love, Jazz. With them both. And they were Bats. because of course they were! So yeah, they know the world is crazy, but the only ghost they may know is a magic one, in service to a god. And I just wanted to be normal, just for a little while longer. Not King, not a freak, and not the guy who lied about his whole ass species to them. And Dani's still gone, and Ra's is still out there, and I just....I just wanted to be normal."

Danny collapsed back to the couch. Jazz waited.

"I know, they won't mind, I do. But...I give out bits and pieces, because I hope that it will stop them from seeing me as different. I haven't transformed since we got here, except for when the League summoned me. No powers, except to help Barbara. It's easy to pretend I’m just a man who knows a bit about magic."

Jazz pulled Danny into a hug, and tried not to cry.

That night, as Danny wandered Gotham, he got a call from Jason. Or rather, Red Hood.

"Can you forcibly summon yourself to the girls."

"Put your phone on the ground."

Red Hood listened, and heard Danny's garbled voice come from it. One explosion later, Danny was there.

"Who and were"

Hood pointed.

"Bane. He has some new juice, and the buildings full of his guys and guns"

"Don't care. Bats?"

"Off-world til morning."

"Any friendlies in the area?"

"Nope."

"Do you know why they didn't summon me?"

"No."

"Wait here."

Danny stormed off, and Hood nearly collapsed as he relaxed muscles he hadn’t even noticed were tense. Danny was pissed, and he felt sorry for Bane.

Entering the building, Danny casually backhanded a goon through the drywall, scratched a sigil into a separate wall, then slapped it, constructing a Door. Opening it, he called out.

"Dora, can I borrow your army?"

The girl in question stepped through the door.

"Of course, dear brother."

With a wave, knights streamed through the door. Danny called out to them.

"There are armed men throughout the building. Disable them and knock them out. There will be a large man with purple eyes, leave him for me. And there are two women, in black and purple, my sigil upon their hands. Find them."

Dora interrupted, eyes blazing with interest.

"I will go to them directly, brother. I am most intrigued to meet those who you deem worthy."

Danny was too worried to be embarrassed.

"Please do, sister. But please don't mention ghosts, or my titles. They still don’t know everything about me."

"But of course. Knights, go. And brother do be safe."

She pressed a kiss to his cheek before flying off, shifting to a more draconian form to fight in. Following the resonance of the sigils, she found the girls, huddled into a corner, unconscious but breathing. Needle marks marred their necks, and bruises decorated the little flesh Dora could see.

"Poor dears. Lets just..."

Dora reached into their chests, and let her fire burn out the drugs in their systems. They woke rapidly and ready to fight. Dora approved.

"Be calm, warriors. Danny sent me."

The girls started at the name, and the one in purple spoke.

"How do we know we can trust you?"

"Danny told me he placed his sigil upon your hands."

"Who are you?"

The one in black was nearly silent when she moved.

"I am Danny's sworn sister. My name is Dora."

The girls took in her appearance, eyes lingering on her wings, tail, and horns.

"You are from the Infinite Realms, aren't you?"

"I am. But the rest is for Danny to tell you, in his time. Now, lets move. I would hate to miss the show."

Red Hood was confused. Within a minute of Danny's entrance, goons had started walking out of the building, and knocking themselves out. As Red Robin, Nightwing, and Robin touched down, they joined him in watching whatever the hell was going on.

"Hood, what is happening?"

"...I need you all to keep this from B, ok. Please."

The please had them all staring.

"Fuck off, I can be polite. First, listen to everything I say before you take off, ok?"

They all nodded.

"The girls are inside, I lost comms with them about 10 mins ago."

He immediately had to grab Nightwing.

"I said wait, dammit. I called in a....fuck, I called Danny, ok. Don’t look at me like that, I have forbidden knowledge, ok. He went in, and then this started. He asked about any friendlies in the area, so if you go in now you may be caught up in whatever-"

He was cut off as about half of Bane crashed into the street.

Danny walked through the building as if he owned it. Overshadowed goons streaming around him. He brushed aside a metal door, and came face-to-face with who he assumed was Bane. He caught sight of Dora in the catwalks, and let out a sigh of relief as he saw his girls with her. Had he not seen the injuries that peppered their bodies, Bane may have gotten off.

Instead, he turned, caught the fist coming towards him, and ripped off his arm.

Cass could see that Danny was not angry. At the sight of them, she had seen fear turn to relief. As he assessed their injuries, she had seen relief fade to conviction. He did not maim Bane out of anger, or a desire for revenge or suffering. He simply saw it as the consequence of actions. Like a ball tossed up, there was no question that gravity would pull it to the earth. So even as a kick sent Bane through a beam, his leg being left behind as the metal crumpled, Cass did not, could not, take issue with his choices.

Nightwing was honestly surprised Bane was alive. Missing an arm and a leg, his chest had a sizable dent in it as well. He immediately removed the device providing the man's Venom, and applied first aid. At this point, no other goons were coming out, so the Reds and Robin were securing them before they woke. Sirens in the distance indicated the police were finally showing up. A gust of wind had him looking up to see...a dragon lady carrying his sisters? Sure, it was that kind of day. He stepped forward to support his sisters as the lady spoke.

"I leave you here, ladies, but worry not, I will see you again. Danny asks that you forgive his absence, but he will not be dealing with the provosts this time. He will meet you at your home. Good eve."

At that, she vanished.

Steph and Cass protested, but a word from Alfred had them reporting to the Cave for treatment. While the man fussed, Nightwing pulled Red Hood to the side. Both Robins had remained at the scene to oversee the clean-up.

"Jay what the hell?"

"I cant tell you, 'Wing. Honestly, I promised."

"Fine, but can you least tell me more about the situation. What went wrong?"

"The girls had infiltrated while I drew attention. I heard Cass say something about hearing a noise, then fighting broke out. They fought with Bane, and then I heard Steph curse. She had been darted and told Cass to run. Obviously, she didn't and tried to get them clear. But they got her too, and she was only able to hide them before the drugs knocked them out. There were too many guns for me to get in, and you all were too far out for me to wait for you to get there, plan the assault, and execute. So , I called Danny."

"Why not a Super? You know B always has at least one of them listen for us when he's gone."

"Because I was not prepared to look Danny in the eye if something went wrong and I didn’t call him."

"...That must be some forbidden knowledge."

Alfred was pleasantly surprised at the lightness of the girls' injuries, all things considered. And even more so when a check a short hour later showed signs of accelerated healing. He arched an eyebrow at his granddaughters as he commented on it. Stephanie broke first, the precious lass.

"Danny gave us some magic."

"And I'm to understand he also arranged for your rescue and Bane's...capture."

"Yes."

"Very good, I will have to thank him. Now, I understand you wish to be elsewhere, but I am hesitant to let you go off until you have healed further. Shall you call Mister Danny to assure him of your health?"

His little bat looked at him, a plea in her eyes.

"You may invite him over."

Her eyes lit with mischief, and she pressed her hand to the bed between the girls. A flash of light had Danny sitting there, both girls leaning into him as the bed sagged under his sudden weight. Alfred blinked. Cass laughed.

"Good evening, Alfred."

"And to you, young man. I wish to offer my thanks for you assistance with tonight’s operation, and that you convey the same to your draconian associate."

"It was a pleasure, Alfred, and I will pass the word."

Alfred left the ward, and walked over to his two bickering birds.

"Enough, you two. Mister Danny is with the girls. If you have questions, you will be either be brief or wait until morning, understood."

""Yes Alfred.""

Dick felt awful interrupting, but knock on the doorframe as he watched his sisters chat with Danny, who was, somehow, here.

"Hey, sorry, but Jason's claiming forbidden knowledge and I would like at least some idea on what the hell just happened, please?"

Danny laughed.

"Let him know he can fill you in, and I'll answer more in the morning, ok?"

Steph glared at him, and he elected for a tactical retreat.

"Bet. Night."

Danny got the girls up to their room, and helped them out of their gear before running them a bath. The injuries were healing quickly, but would be sore until morning. The tub was more than big enough for the two of them, and Danny got them situated before realizing he could use a wash as well. The girls directed him to Jason's room, and he stepped out to beg some sweats from the man. He also texted Jazz, asking she bring him a change of clothes the next day. Returning to the bathroom, he ignored the catcalls from Steph as he stepped into the stall to shower. It was around the corner from the tub, and they couldn't see him. He finished quickly and then sat beside the tub as they soaked. Cass started the questions.

"Whose Dora?"

"She's my sister, by sworn oath. My friend, Sam, helped her dethrone her despot brother."

"And what is Dora?"

"A dragon. Well, a descendant of one and a witch. She rules an area of the Infinite Realms that resemble the middle ages. I needed to borrow her knights, and she offered to help find you while I handled Bane."

Both girls stared at him, and Steph asked, voice small, a question they both had agonized over for a while.

"Are you going to leave, Danny? When you find Dani, kill Ra's, whatever. Is that why you are being vague?"

Danny froze, and then franticly denied it.

"Oh Ancients, no, no. I’m sorry, is that what you thought? no, I would never just disappear, I promise."

The girls just sighed in relief. Danny paused, then explained.

"The rest of it...is a lot. And a little. I actually had a minor breakdown with Jazz about this earlier. I promise, its a hang-up on my end, nothing you two did. And I'll tell you-"

Cass hand covered his mouth, cutting his rambling short. She had knelt at the edge of the tub to reach him, and Danny and Steph both watched the water droplets race down her boobs.

"It's ok, Danny. When you're ready, not sooner."

"Yeah, its chill. As long as you don't just vanish, we can wait. We still have out spare room, and you have your mysterious alter ego."

Danny chuckled and then stood to grab towels for them, helping them each dry off. They made their way to bed, and the girls fell asleep quickly. As he lay between them, Danny tried to follow them. Instead, he began thinking of their earlier interactions in Gotham.

Danny had spent most of the day crisscrossing Gotham. Having just moved in, he chafed at the need to introduce himself to the local ghosts, and would have rather spent the time searching for Dani. As he made his way up the stairs, he turned the corner to see Jazz apologizing to someone. The girl, Danny could see she, was of Asian decent. Even from a few steps down, Danny still could see over her. She had short black hair, looked to be about 5 feet tall, and, as she turned to make way for Jazz, Danny reassessed his judgement of her age as he eyed her…profile. She was definatly not a child, but he still judged her as a year or two younger than his own 23. As he scolded himself for being a perv, he heard her question who Jazz was talking about. He answered without thinking-

“That would be me.”

-and then rushed to catch the girl as he nearly sent her toppling down the stairs. He stuttered out an apology and rushed to set her down, desperately ignoring how she felt pressed against him. Desperate to leave the awkward situation, he rushed Jazz down the stairs, citing a need to be on time. Jazz had the courtesy to wait until the were out of earshot to start laughing.

“Smooth, little brother, real smooth.”

“Ancients, Jazz, kill me now. Why am I like this?”

“The portal.”

He glared at her, and she smiled sweetly back at him.

“That was Cass, our upstairs neighbor. And don’t think I didn’t see you checking her out. She lives with her girlfriend.”

It was later that week Danny met said girlfriend. Despite his best efforts, he was unable to limit everything he could hear, and had caught Cass talking to a ‘Steph’ as he sat out on the patio a few days prior. He was just coming off the last set of stairs when he heard a bang from higher in the building, followed a by the clatter of someone all but throwing themselves down the stairs. By the time he made it to the end of the block, a blonde had caught up with him. She was fighting to get her waist-length hair into a high ponytail and talking to herself. Based on her mutterings, he now knew her name was Steph, her phone was dead, and she forgot her bra.

Danny hadn’t intended to introduce himself, but, after seeing Steph get showered in coffee, He started making his way down the train car. He regretted not simply being able to phase over, as his silence kept startling people and slowing him down. He saw Steph, now wearing just a light purple tee, cross her arms over her modest boobs, and glared at the reflection of a guy who was edging closer. Finally, he made it over, and pivoted to stand between the two.

“Hey, you’re Cass girlfriend, Steph, right?”

She jumped, and Danny felt bad. He made sure to give her room, not wanting to loom over her. She was taller than Cass, but only by about half a foot.

“Danny, right? Yeah.”

Danny saw her check him over, and tried to think none clothing related thoughts. She had relaxed her arms, and seemed more at ease. Unfortunately, the train shortly became much more crowded. Danny braced himself against the window above her and offered a sheepish smile.

"You good? Sorry there’s a lot of people.”

She offered him a kind smile.

Don’t worry, I’m good. Anime was right, kabedon is hot.”

Danny lost his grip, and almost fell into her. As the crowd pushed at his back, he got his forearm against the window. He heard her groan in embarrassment, and felt her head tap against his chest. He also felt other, more pleasant things, but tried to ignore them.

“Ignore me, please god kill me know.”

Danny tried to reassure her, Ancients knew he had blurted out some ridiculous things to hid embarrassment, but was unable to form a whole sentence. Finally, he gave up, and pretended nothing had happened.

"I'm off at the next stop. You?"

From there, he focused on small talk, and tried not to notice how, as they moved pass the slip, Steph began to relax against him. He did his pest to make sure she didn’t feel exactly how much he noticed her. Finally, they made it to their stop and pushed their way off the train. As they walked towards the station exit, Danny dug in his bag. Pulling out his hoodie, he chuckled when he thought about her wearing it. It was too big for him, much less her. Still, he held it out to her.

"I saw yours get caffeinated."

"...Thanks. I'll get it back to you soon."

"No worries. Anyway, I'm out. See ya, tell Cass I said hi."

The next time he saw either of them, they were together. They were at the door to the apartment building, trying to juggle carrying too many groceries and punching their code in to enter. Danny rushed to help, making sure to drag his feet across the concrete.

“Hold up, I’ll get it.”

The girls both thanked him.

“You guys need some help?”

Steph arched a brow at him.

“Oh, cuz we poor little woman need a man?”

If not for his empathy, Danny might have believed her acidic tone.

“First off, you could both body a man twice your size.”

They nodded.

“Second of all, I’m Midwestern. We help everybody.”

A second, grudging nod.

“And finally, I own Cass for scaring her when we met. So unless you want a casserole, can I give you a hand?”

The girls held a silent conversation before offering Danny some bags. They fussed when he took nearly all of them, but he simply slipped past and headed up the stairs. He heard Steph mutter to Cass in a teasing tone.

“Hm, maybe guys can be good for something.”

He blamed Sam and Val for his response. They often made similar remarks, and Danny considered it his dual ex-boyfriend right to snip at them. He didn’t even think as he responded

“I can think of at least one other thing you could use me for.”

They all froze, and Danny groaned and ducked his head.

“I am so sorry. My friends make similar comments, and my mouth got away from me.”

Cass walked up, giving him a critical eye before walking past him.

“In that case, I can think of two.”

Steph cackled as Danny blushed.

From that point, they had gotten closer. Danny and Steph often rode the train together, and any time he saw Cass around the apartments, he could see her notice and appreciate the noises he usually remembered to make. Jazz also got to know the girls, often joining them for morning yoga on the roof. Danny would have chosen to avoid those particular get togethers, but Gotham being Gotham made him too nervous to let Jazz out of his sight so vulnerable. He was fully aware that Steph knew this, thought it was sweet, and loved to mess with him. Cass quickly noticed that any sound of pain or stress would get him to stop his relentless scanning of the skyline, and both her and Steph used that to draw his eye at the most enticing times. Danny could hear Jazz laughing at him as she spoke to the neighbors, and knew she knew he could.

“Any particular reason you’re torturing my brother?”

Steph was more than happy with her answer.

“He deserves it.

“Not that I disagree, but why?”

“He keeps scaring me.”

Danny would like to say, in his defense, that he tried to make enough noise. She just wasn’t quite as aware as Cass.

“That’s fair, continue.”

He soon had his own little corner of the roof, complete with a table for him too tinker with. This, coupled with a water crisis, brought him up too work on a filter that could deal with whatever Gotham threw at it. He had been trying to find a way to decompose any foreign material, and was having issues finding a viable substitute for ectoplasm. He had made a small bit of progress with magic, but it wasn’t until he caught the news one morning that he thought about kryptonite. He had researched it before, because space rock, and knew it gave off just the energy he needed. He also knew he would never be able to get a hold of it alone. A glance out the window showed him Wayne Tower in the distance, and he smiled. The news went on to say to expect the sun today, so he headed up to the roof.

While his water filter was complete, Danny knew he had skimped on some of the process and materials. So he was dedicating the day to cleaning up his design. The first step was to eliminate any magic but what would be replaced with kryptonite. As he tinkered, he heard Steph and Cass walking towards him.

"What'cha working on, Danny?"

"A water filter."

"...seems complicated for a filter."

He turned to shoot her a glare, only to freeze when he got a good look at them. They looked stunning in their bikinis, Steph’s a dark purple, and Cass a solid black. He quickly turned away. They asked a few more questions before heading over to their usual spot. Danny watched them as they walked past his desk, and quickly dropped his eyes before they caught him staring.

As Danny felt Steph shift in bed next to him, he was drawn from his thoughts. As she settled back against him, he remembered that day on the roof for more than just the view. He remembers how the girls felt to his empathy. In that moment, when Danny first saw them, he didn’t feel the usual teasing aura. He felt them notice him noticing them, and a flash of pride from them both. And even the flirting a little later was different. They had flirted plenty before that, and he always felt their satisfaction getting him flustered. But that day, he felt more. He felt them enjoying his attention, celebrating in pushing through his focus, and yeah, laughing at him too. But that was the first time the flirts had felt like more than just friendly, to any of them. He finally fell asleep, a smile on his face.

As Bruce read over Nightwing’s report the following morning, he found it hard to be upset at Bane’s condition. Given the number of men in the building, even if his boys had been able to make it inside unharmed, Bane would have had plenty of time to find the girls. His only issue was Danny. Or rather, a lack of information on Danny. But he would trust his children.

Danny and the Wayne kids were enjoying breakfast. Jason had made an early morning run, meeting up with Jazz to grab Danny’s things. Danny had promised Dick answers after they ate, but the room grew quiet when Bruce walked in. He smiled at Danny.

“Thank you for last night. Are you ok?”

“I am, Bruce, and no thanks necessary.”

As the older man grabbed some food and headed out, everyone let out a breath.

“I can’t believe he left it at that.”

While he agreed with Tim, Dick still tried to defend their father.

“He’s not that bad.”

No one dignified that with a response. They finished eating, and Danny went and sat down with Dick to give him some answers. The others gave them some space.

“So, Jason gave me the basics, but I did still want to know a few other things.”

“Shoot.”

“Who was the dragon lady?”

“An ally of mine. Her knights took care of the goons, and she took care of the girls.”

“Fantastic. The knights?”

“Took over the goons bodies, and knocked them out.”

“How?”

“Pass.”

“Did you hold back on Bane at all?”

“Very much so.”

“Terrifying. Why?”

“He hurt them, yes, but given all the possible scenarios, this one was relatively minor.”

“Also terrifying, but fair. Is there anything else you feel we should know?”

At this, Danny pondered. He had to give Dick respect, that was an excellent way to push boundaries without making it obvious.

“Most of the League of Assassin bases have been destroyed at this point. I will not be elaborating at this time.”

Dick froze, and compartmentalized.

“Alright, thanks for the info man. And for the save. Honestly, Bane should consider himself lucky you showed up when you did. We’d have killed him if he hurt them any more.”

“I’d have done worse.”

As Cass and Steph walked into their apartment, the felt that it had been ages since their dates with Danny a few days before. He had walked them to the door, with strict instruction to summon him if they needed anything. Otherwise, he was planning on being out for most of the next week. Right up until Dick and Babs wedding. With Dante finishing off the LoA overseas, Danny was getting nervous. It was late the next day when everything went sideways. A resonating buzz brought Steph and Cass running to Ellie's room. Rather than a Core, they found a floating 5 year old. Her hair was long, flowing as if underwater, and her eyes burned Lazarus green. She wore a black and white onesie that tapered off into a tail, and it had a strange symbol on the front. Her skin was a pale blue, and tiny fangs glistened in her mouth. Cass approached slowly.

"Ellie? Do you remember us?"

The child slowly floated to the ground, and a flash of light had the girls worried she had returned to her Core. Instead, a small black-haired, blue eyed, naked child stared at them.

"Mommy?"

Cass froze, and Steph stepped forward.

"Hey Ellie."

"Mom?"

Well, this was happening. Ellie slowly toddled towards them, arms coming up, grabbing at them. Cass lifted her up, and the child nestled into her arms, quickly falling asleep.

Cass and Steph exchanged a panicked look, before returning to the living room. A scroll floated above their coffee table.

"Sure, why not."

Grabbing the scroll, Steph read it aloud.

"Her name is Ellie Phantom. She will regain all memory of her past, but not for some time. She will recognize you as her mothers. Her father is out there, and will find you when the time is right. She will recognize him. Keep her safe, the ones who hunt her still roam free. She knows to hide her powers. She will spend much of the next few days sleeping, but worry not. Treat her as you would any child, and all will be as it should. -CW"

The scroll vanished, and the girls sat down. Ellie snoozed on.

"Cass, what do we do?"

"Protect her."

"But how do we explain her? Bruce can get the paperwork, but what’s the story."

Cass sighed.

"Call Babs."

Barbara stared at her sisters, and the baby that played on the floor. By the time she arrived, Steph had ran out to get the basics.

"So, let me get this straight. You have been hiding a ghost for over a year while she healed, and she is now a toddler who you need a cover story for while you wait for her dad, who may or may not be a king, to track you down."

"Pretty much."

"..alright."

After nearly an hour, Babs sat back.

"Okay, the only feasible choice is that Cass had a baby. Steph, you are too visible, and there are plenty of pictures to disprove a pregnancy. Cass, on the other hand, was recuperating from that cut Scarecrow gave her at the proposed time of birth. This gives us a gap to exploit. Since Cass rarely gets spotted anyway, it can work."

"Great, lets-"

"Not so fast. No matter how hard we try, someone will spot you eventually. So, whose the father?"

Neither girl had an answer, and Babs sighed.

"Look, I know you are still figuring out things with him, but you should talk to Danny. When he was arrested, he referenced 'the Infinite" to Bruce. Maybe he knows something about the kid, or her dad.

They had spent the entire night and most of the next day trying to find the perfect way to explain everything to Danny when they got a message from Tim. Ra’s was in Gotham, and Danny was fighting him. At the same time, their TV turned on, displaying the computerized face of Oracle.

“Ra’s enlisted the Court of Owls. Nightwing and Robin are on scene, but everyone else is on the streets. No one has seen Talia. I told B you were both still injured so stay with Ellie. We don’t want to risk that Talia is waiting to use you against him.”

The TV cut off, and the girls collapsed to the couch. Ellie looked up, and walked over to climb up to sit between them. She patted their legs.

“There, there, it will be ok.”

Danny struck off a Talon, with ease, eyes locked of Ra’s. Before the fight, he had donned a mask offered to him be Nightwing, but he could see the confused recognition in his enemies eyes.

The fight with Vlad over the Infinimap had been the first tome Danny truly felt the enormity of his new world. As they battled through time, he had to keep himself from drowning in the logistics. They fought along the ages. He trained with Pandora, long before her death, and became an ally of Themyscara. He watched Atlantis sink. And at one point, he fell to the desert, map flying from his hands as his powers clashed with Vlad’s erupting with the force of a small star.

When he awoke, he was in a small tent. He wandered out to find himself in an oasis. An elderly man looked up, and offered him a cup. Danny tried to thank the man, and ask where he was, but neither could understand the other. As Danny looked across the sands, he despaired at the thought of ever finding the map. Only for the ticking of a clock to echo through his head, a promise that Clockwork was watching.

He settled into an easy life with the man. They moved from oasis to oasis, eventually reaching a modest cottage, half a day away from a large town. There, Danny realized his benefactor was well knows, as many great figures from the town came to visit. The man saw none of them, but when they saw Danny, the younger men among them grew angry. After yelling at him, they realized he couldn’t understand. One of them drew to staves from his wagon, and threw one at Danny’s feet. Realizing they wished to fight, Danny complied, unsure but willing if it meant they would leave the elder alone.

After easily defeating all the men, they left, a newfound respect in their eyes as they looked at Danny. The elder, however simply tutted at Danny before taking up his own staff. He showed Danny knew ways to use the weapon, and Danny delighted. He had enjoyed his time with the Amazons, but they fought in a way that worked only because of their overwhelming physical abilities. The elder showed Danny a smarter way to fight.

Their quiet life continued for weeks, until a young man, maybe 17, came up. He bowed to the elder and spoke, but the elder payed him no mind, so he turned to Danny. He drew a wooden sword from his pack, and gestured for Danny to stand. Danny armed himself with his stave, having come to prefer it to a sword. Danny easily defeated the man, who grew angry and stormed away. The elder simply smiled, and showed Danny how he may have won more easily.

This pattern continued for months. At least once a week, the man would come, fight, and lose. As time past, his temper lessened. Danny found himself guiding the man just as the elder did him. He took to calling him Shadow, for he moved silently. He also found the elder guiding him less and less as he improved. Finally, 4 months after they first arrived at the town, the elder prepared to leave. He guided Danny to his room, and offered him a bag. Danny opened it, shocked to see the Infinimap inside. The elder gathered him in a hug, and Danny had tears in his eyes as he returned it.

The next morning, Danny prepared himself to leave, He knew he couldn’t leave Vlad in the past, and would have to find him before he could return home. He heard the young man arrive, and went out to meet him. Instead, he found the elder bleeding out, throat slashed, and the young man nowhere in sight.

When he finally returned to his time, Danny sought out Ghost Writer, The man scoured the Library, and found a record from nearly a thousand years ago. It was here Danny learned the name of his Shadow, a man who went on to travel the world, learning from and killing every master he came across.

Throwing the final Talon far from him, Danny crafted a staff of ice. Readying himself, he called out to his once friend.

“What’s wrong, Shadow. You look like you’ve seen a ghost.”

The battle was short, and Nightwing appreciated that as he wrapped an arm around Robin. They had been securing the Talons as Danny fought, and stopped only to observe the final clash. As they fought, Danny was yelling at Ra’s in a language no one but the two seemed to know. The man was more shaken than either Bat have ever seen him, and the fight wasn’t even close. Robin turned away when Danny brought his staff down, piercing it through Ra’s heart. So only Nightwing saw as frost spread form the wound, freezing the man before, with a twist, his corpse shattered into dust.

Danny was exhausted. He had left the sewers soon after the battle had ended, and had drifted across Gotham, lost in the past, for hours. Only to be drawn up by the pull of a summons. With a tired smile, he vanished from the streets.

Steph was trying to be patient. Dick had reported the fight was over, and that Danny was fine, 4 hours ago. And she got it, it was probably really complicated to kill your apparently quasi0immortal former training partner. But she was only giving Danny another hour before she dragged him home. Cass, however, was less patient. As soon as she got Ellie settled in her still warded room, now a nursery, she laid her hand on the floor.

Cass was not going to let Danny lose himself over Ra’s. As soon as he appeared in front of her, she pulled him to the couch. She then went to the kitchen where Steph had been pacing, and pulled her over too. Steph jumped at seeing Danny, and Cass pushed her to sit beside him. Sitting un his other side, she wrapped her arms around him, feeling Steph do the same. They sat in silence, until Danny spoke.

“I can tell you the rest, now.”

Before he could start, Steph stood.

“Come here first.”

Following the girls to there room, Danny laughed when he saw the new bed. Cass stood by it proudly.

“For cuddles. Get cleaned up.”

Danny did so, as the girls had done so earlier. He came out of the room in shorts to the sight of them sitting against the bedframe, legs under the blankets. They had taken their shirts off, and Danny stood for a moment, drinking in the sight of them. Cass lifted the blankets, indicating for Danny to climb between them. And also showing off they had removed their shorts as well.

Settling between them, Danny finally told them the truth.

“While all other creatures call the Realms home, it is, first and foremost, a Realm of ectoplasm.”

Both girls found the word familiar.

“When the portal opened,  bonded with that ecto, and became a halfa. Half human….and half ghost. I call myself Phantom.”

The girls froze in disbelief. And Steph interrupted.

“What is Dani’s name?”

“Hm? Oh, Danielle, but she prefers Dani. Or at least, she did. She had mentioned thinking about changing it but hadn’t said to what.”

Cass couldn’t help it. She laughed, and soon found Steph joining her as Danny just stared, which made her laugh even more. Fighting to control herself, she pushed at Danny’s shoulder.

“Go look in the spare room.”

Danny did, with Cass and Steph pulling on robes to follow him. They found him frozen I the doorway, staring at Ellie as she slept in her little bed. Steph spoke softly.

“She came to us about a year before you did. She gave us half a message, and vanished into her Core. We’ve had her ever since. Yesterday, she tuned into a little girl, and here she is. We got a note saying her memory was gone, but would be back. It was signed CW.”

“Clockwork. What else did it-“

With a flash, the scroll was back. Danny sighed and read it quickly. He dropped it, and it disappeared again. With another sighs Danny walked slowly to Ellie’s side, leaning down to press a kiss to her head. They headed back to their room, and returned to sitting in bed. Steph asked first.

“Whose Clockwork?”

“The ghost of Kronos. We have tea.”

Steph was ready for bed. Cass had a question of her own.

“Are you the King?”

“Yes. High King Phantom, of the Infinite Realms.”

Cass hummed at the info, and Danny slide down to fully lie in the bed.

“Come on now, we can talk about the details in the morning.”

The girls agreed, and slide down to nestle into his sides.

Danny woke first in the next morning by dint of his stomach. He hadn’t eaten since breakfast the day before. As he began contemplating how to get up with disturbing his girls, he remembered that Dani- that Ellie- had been found, and quickly phased out of the bed, floating his way into the kitchen. Sensing that Ellie was still deeply asleep, he could feel her Core pulling in ecto. Resolving to get her to Frostbite for a full checkup, Danny judged that she wouldn’t be awake before noon. A quick check of the fridge gave him some yogurt and fruit, and he soon found himself heading back to the bedroom, as he had hear someone stirring.

He stopped as he closed the door behind him. Without him there to cool them off, it seems his girls had gotten hot, and they had both kicked the blanket off. They were both lying on there backs, and Danny slowly moved closer, deciding on the best way to wake them. He knew Cass slept lightly, she had almost woken up when he had phased out of bed, an it was her who he had heard from the kitchen. With a smirk, he began humming, adding a touch of a Siren’s Song. He lulled her back to sleep, and slowly slide onto the bed to lie between her legs. He pressed forward, still humming as his tongue began to move against her. He slide first one, then a second finger into her, and slowly began building both the speed of his tongue and the intensity of his hand. As she began to come apart, he ended his Song and watched as her orgasm had her arching up from the bed. As she settled, he slowly slide his fingers from her, and saw her watching him with hooded eyes and a smile on her face.

“Good morning, Cass.”

“Steph was right. Best wake up.”

Cass sat up in bed, and gave him a kiss. She then went to get cleaned up, and Danny turned to his attention to Steph. He knew she slept more deeply, so no Song was needed. Instead, he ghosted his lips up her thigh as he raised it over his shoulder. He began gently licking along her slit, and felt her stir lightly under his mouth. As he continued his gentle attack, he could see Cass watching out from the bathroom, gently stroking herself. Soon, Steph was nearly awake, and nearly ready to come apart Danny suddenly pinned her dawn, sucking her clit between his lips sliding a finger into her. He felt her thighs clamp around her head a s she cried out, and he switched back to gently eating her out as she rode out her high. He felt her hands on his shoulders, pulling him up her to cover her as she gave him a kiss good morning.

“Mm, morning Danny.”

“Morning Steph, sleep well?”

Steph gave him another kiss, and then slid out from under him. She walked over to Cass, and pulled her into a kiss. She then turned back to Danny.

“Go lay down, we’ll be right back.”

Danny listened as the girls walked into the bathroom, door clicking shut behind them. I wasn’t long before then were back. They both climbed up to sit beside him at the head of the bed, Steph asked about his morning.

“Did you check on Ellie yet?”

“Yeah, she’s still asleep. I can sense her Core now that the wards are down. She probably won’t wake up til lunch.”

“Ok. Cass told me you woke her up to, how’d you manage that?”

As she spoke, both her and Cass had taken to running their hands over Danny’s thighs.

“It’s a power I have. The type of ghost I am is a Siren, so I can use my voice for magic. I Sang her asleep until she was ready.”

Cass blushed, and Steph laughed.

“Great use of interdimensional powers.”

They settled into the silence, and Danny said nothing about their actions. He had had his turn exploring, now it was theirs. Soon, they had both sat up, moving away from the headboard to sit at his sides. This time, Cass had no problems telling him what she wanted.

“Lay down.”

He did, and the girls began pressing kisses all along his chest and neck. At the same time, they began hesitantly trailing their hands over his waist, occasionally dipping under the band of his shorts. They shifted around him Cass pulling his mouth to her tits as Steph slide down. Without his eyes on her, she found it much easier to work up to pulling at his shorts. Danny lifted his hips, and Steph pulled them off, Her eyes immediately fixated on his dick, and she softly reached out to wrap her hand around him. Cass soon joined her, and Danny watched as they began to slowly jack him off.

As they became more bold, Steph dipped her head down to him, taking his tip into her mouth. Danny hissed and fought to stay still as he felt her tongue swirl around him. As she sat back, Cass followed her lead, but instead focused on running her tongue up and down his length. Neither of them had done this before, and they both keep looking to Danny for a reaction.

“Girls I promise you everything is great. Just watch your teeth and everything will be fine.”

They took his word for it, and Danny was subjected to the best torture of his life. Between their curiosity and trepidation, they did nothing hard or long enough to get him off, but they were still constantly trying. At one point, Steph tried to take his entire length down her throat, and he stopped her.

“Let’s work up to that, ok?”

Instead, Steph encouraged Cass to lie between his legs, so she could hold him between her pillowed tits. She then began teasing his tip, as well as squeezing her girlfriend tighter around him. Danny almost lost it then, but then they moved on. After what felt like an eternity, they realized that maybe they had taken their time a little too much. They returned to how they had sat before, and kept stroking him as Steph spoke.

“How do you want to…?”

She blushed, unable to finish the question.

“Depends, do you want to taste it or wear it?”

Danny was a little frustrated, ok. The girls blushed even deeper at his question, and shared a look. Cass answered.

“Can we do both?”

Danny let out a muttered curse. These girls would kill him.

“Lay on your stomachs, at the end of the bed.”

Kneeling would make them too short. They listened, and he walked around the bed, pleased it was a good height.

“Use your mouths and tongues, and I’m going to switch between you. When I say to close your eyes, keep your mouths open and your tongues out.”

The girls nodded, and Danny stepped up between them. They immediately began sucking and licking at his dick, and he occasionally grabbed one of them so he could lightly fuck their mouths, carful not to go too deep. It didn’t take long before he had them close their eyes, painting their faces with his cum. They both opened their eyes, blinking up at him before turning to look at each other. They each swallowed what had landed in their mouth, and decided that, while not the best, they could live with it. Cass leaned forward, and cleaned Steph’s cheek with a lick. They soon dissolved to making out, both enjoying the game of cleaning each other up. As they played, Danny went to the bathroom and returned with a few wipes, helping them finish clean up.

He went to throw the wipes away and came back to a furiously blushing Steph, who was nodding to Cass.

“Hey Danny?”

“Yes Cass?”

“I still have to dance tonight and tomorrow, so I can’t, but will you have sex with Steph right now?”

Danny stopped in his tracks. And then walked over to where they still laid at the foot of the bed.

“Is that what you want, Steph?”

She nodded, and explained.

“This way, you aren’t trying to focus on both of us. I’ll get you now, and Cass after her last show.”

Danny considered her words, and then turned to Cass.

“Want to help me?”

Steph was straddling Danny, with Cass pressed behind her. She rocked forward, feeling his dick slide against her as she grinded along his length. His hands were on her hips, and Cass was kissing her neck while fondling her boobs. Steph though she was going to combust, and then Danny was lifting her. Cass reached down, guiding the head of his dick into her, and then holding her around the waist as she slowly settled down, Danny filling her. She stopped as she bottomed out, and Danny’s hands came up to cup her boobs as Cass fingers began dancing over her clit, soothing any pain. As she began to move, riding Danny slowly as she adjusted the feel of him inside her, Cass came around to sit next to Danny’s head. She watched as Steph grew bolder, and began to gently stroke herself to the sight. All to soon, Steph felt herself falling, and it was only Danny’s hands on her hips that kept her moving. He helped her ride him through her orgasm, and caught her when she leaned toward him. He then flipped them over, and Steph marveled at how he covered her. He sat back on his legs, and began to touch her all over. Her boobs, her stomach, her legs, everywhere he touch burned. She turned her head to the side a saw Cass, fingers disappearing into her slit. She reached to stroke her, and the touch sent Cass moaning as she came. She turned back to Danny, and pulled him back over her. She whispered in his ear, asking him to take her until he was satisfied. He began riding her, a slow controlled rhythm that had her gasping in no time. No matter how she pulled at him, he wouldn’t go faster, and she felt herself winding tighter and tighter, Just when she was about to break, he stopped, and she groaned, leaning up to bite him. He wrapped his arms around her and leaned back, lifting her with him.

The new angle had Steph cry out, feeling him impossibly deep inside her. He slid his hands under her legs and grabbed her waist, and began thrusting into her in earnest. She started coming apart almost instantly, but he didn’t stop as she came, just kept her moving over him. Just when she thought she was going to lose it, she felt him jerk inside her. She could feel his cum filling her, and it drove her over once more. With a gasp, he gently laid her down, slowly sliding from her. She felt empty, and then gasped as she felt Cass tongue on her still sensitive skin. Cass licked at her deeply, cleaning her slit and thighs of Danny’s seed. Steph watched as she went from her to Danny, leaning down to lick him clean as well.

Danny helped Steph up, and went with her to shower. Cass followed them, and jumped up to sit on the countertop while Danny and Steph cleaned up. As she went to wash her hair, Steph frowned as she felt how tangled it was, struggling to pull her fingers through the knots. Danny’s hand replaced hers, and she felt her hair slip free.

“How are you doing that?”

“Intangibility.”

Steph shrugged, and chose to enjoy his attention. He washed and conditioned her hair, and then put her hair into a long braid. He then washed her body, his hands sliding over her skin leaving her breathless. All to soon, she was clean, and went to undo her braid to dry her hair. Danny stopped her, and guided her to stand at the edge of the shower, out of the spray. A brush of his hand over her had breaking out in goosebumps, and she was shocked to see water falling through her, leaving her dry. Danny laughed at her expression, and gestured for Cass to join him in the shower. Steph took her spot on the counter her as Danny adjusted the water for them.

Cass was not nearly as tired as Steph was that morning, so as Danny washed her, she returned to favor. Due to their frequent injuries, the wall of the shower had a chair that could fold down from it, and Cass had Danny sit so she could wash his hair. As she did so, Danny could feel her breasts pressing against him, and soon grew hard. As Cass came around him to rinse his hair, she noticed. She asked Steph to hand her a spare towel, and folded it to give her knees a cushion as she knelt in front of him. She had noticed how much he had enjoyed her titjob before, and wanted to try again. She gathered his dick between her boobs, squeezing them and rubbing herself up and down his length. Leaning forward, she was just able to catch the tip of his dick in her mouth. She let put a pleased hum as she felt his hands tangling in her short hair.

Steph had remained standing at the edge of the shower, and was greatly enjoying the show. As Cass found her groove, she dropped her tits and began taking Danny deeper into her mouth. Finally, she took him entirely into her throat, and Danny let out a strangled moan, before pulling her head back, sending a pleasant sting from her scalp. She kept the tip of his dick in her mouth, looking him in the eye as she caught his cum in her mouth, sucking and swallowing as he watched her.

They finally made it out of the bedroom just before lunch. Cass’s little show had gotten Steph worked up, but they all knew Ellie would be awake soon. They were getting ready to eat when Danny stood and turned to the spare room.

“She’s up.”

Ellie soon came stumbling out of her room. Her eyes locked onto Danny, and tears filled them

“Daddy?”

The girls didn’t even see him move. But he was suddenly across the room, crying child in his embrace as he soothed her. When a flash left a little ghostling in his arms, he immediately shifted with her.

This was the first time the girls had seen Danny’s ghost form. He wore a suit that resembled Ellie’s onesie in coloration, and they were able to see the same symbol on his chest, bug enough for them to work out its DP design. Where Ellie had a tail, he, at first, had legs, before they fused together to coil protectively around their daughter. His ski was a few shades darker than hers.

As soon as Ellie calmed down, both her and Danny shifted back to human. He carried her over to the table, forgoing her booster seat to hold her in his lap as he offered her lunch. As she ate, he spoke to the others.

“Are you two busy after Cass last performance tomorrow night? I want to talk Ellie to the Realms for a check up, and would like you both to come. It shouldn’t take long, and we’d be back well before needing to prep for the wedding.”

Steph nodded, but Cass remembered something. She nudged Steph with her shoulder.

“Babs.”

“Oh, shoot. Danny, we had talked to Babs about making papers for Ellie, but…”

She let Cass explain the rest.

“Only I could have had her, and we were hesitant to ask you to be her father. Pointless, now. But would that be ok?”

Danny thought for a second, and nodded.

“That’s fine, as long as your ok with it. Do we need to meet up to go over the story?”

They did, and Babs soon arrived. They sat down to hash out a story.

“Fortunately, these two didn’t start dating until 3 years ago. It wasn’t officially announced for another year, but still.”

The story they settled on was that Danny and Cass had met at the library, Danny as a soon to graduate 17 year old, only in Gotham for the spring Wayne Tech Expo, and Cass, 15, finishing her online schooling under Barbara’s tutelage. Danny had helped Cass with her science, and one thing had lead to another. No hard feelings on either side, Danny had left, and Cass had found out she was pregnant. Knowing that Danny had dreams of attending Gotham U, she had chosen to leave them to fate, and had her daughter. And of course, good old Brucie Wayne knew, and supported his child in anything she wanted. Steph had helped her through the first years, which drew them together. Now, Danny, already seen in a few pictures attending Cass’s recital, was back. A few tabloids had asked about his identity, and accused Steph of cheating, but nothing real had made it to the papers. If anyone asked, they would evade specific answers on the trios exact relationship, but were prepared to come out if push came to shove, but didn’t think it would get that far. Neither Cass or Steph had much tolerance for any reporters save Lois.

Barbara sat back as she finished altering the documents. A birth certificate and proof of live home birth, signed by Leslie Tompkins, adding Danny’s name to the list of attendees to the expo, generating the normal medical records a 5 year old would need, and she was done.

“While I dislike the implication I would be anything less that a stellar chaperone, its done. Now, I set it up to hit City Records tonight, so I suggest you tell Bruce before then.”

The trio sighed, and Ellie looked around, confused by the noise. She soon returned to playing with Barbara’s hair, floating upside down behind the woman.

Dick was excited. Danny had texted them all, asking for everyone to meet with him that night before heading out to Cass’s show. As such, the Wayne’s would be heading out, all of them, to attend together. Dick couldn’t remember the last time they all went out, but even Jason, Selina, and Alfred would be attending. Jazz and Danny would join them as well. It had taken a single pout from Cass to get Bruce to agree to asking Clark to watch over the city for the night.

They all waited in the sitting room, Alfred and Selina flitting around, adjusting collars and smoothing dresses, when Danny, Jazz, Stephanie, and Cass appeared in a flash of light. Danny caught the various weapons flying at him.

“Oh yeah, I forgot not all of you knew I could do that.”

Gesturing for  them all to sit, Dick noticed the odd way Danny’s hair was moving. It was almost like someone was holding on to it.

“So, basically, I am the half-ghost king of the entire Infinite Realms. I came to Gotham to find my daughter, who had nearly been tortured to Ending by Ra’s. When I was 14, I died in my parents portal, but as an overachiever I went for extra credit and stayed alive too. Unknown to me until literally yesterday, Cass and Steph had been sheltering the Core of my daughter for nearly 2 years, and she just woke up. Bruce, meet Ellie, your granddaughter.”

Danny reached up, and grabbed something above his head, as he brought his hands down, a child appeared, wide blue eyes staring at them all.

“This is my daughter, Ellie. I was cloned by an enemy, but she is mine. The time with the girls bonded them too her as her mothers, and Babs has already completed the paperwork and backstory that Cass, despite girlbossing her way through single motherhood, has elected to let me know our daughter. If asked, you guys knew little of me, but were aware of Ellie. Now, we have 45 minutes to make it to the show, so you each may ask one question.”

Alfred was first. Walking up, he held out a hand to Ellie, who poked it.

“My name is Alfred. Are you hungry, little one?”

“No thanks, Mr. Alfred.”

The man cooed, and stepped back. Tim was next.

“Can we get a bit more of the story later?”

“After the wedding, sure. Jason?”

“…Who cloned you.”

“My dad’s boyfriend, but its been handled.”

Dick had been making funny faces at Ellie, who laughed.

“Is she ok now?”

“She should be, but we’re taking her to my doctor after the last show tomorrow. We’ll be back in time for the wedding. Babs?”

“….If you need more time, we can postpone-“

“Nope. I have the literal god of time on my side, so it will be fine.”

Damian stepped forward, and Ellie decided to float over to his side, where Titus sat.

“Why was my grandfather after her?”

“He believed she could grant him true immortality.”

Duke connected the dots.

“Danny, are you immortal?”

“Technically yes. I am immune to time and sickness.”

Selina had walked over, and Ellie let her pick her up. She played with her necklace, poking at the diamonds.

“Danny, nice to meet you. I have no questions.”

Finally everyone turned to Bruce, who had been silent.

“…You had fun when we summoned you, didn’t you.”

“No comment.”

The show had been just as good the second time around, even if they had to share the box. Steph hit Danny when he teased her about not making full use of the intermission. Where as Jazz had attended publically as Jason’s date, Danny had snuck Ellie and himself in. The child had been entranced by the dancers, and had clapped loudly for her mother when she took her final bow.

By the time the girls made it back to their apartment, Ellie had crashed. Danny had flown ahead as she began to nod off, and had gotten her cleaned up. While Steph helped Cass out of her tights and into the shower, Danny began gathering the things they would need for a trip to the Far Frozen. He was digging through there closet for winter gear when he heard them finish up and walk into the room. He ducked his head out and smiled at them.

“Y’all get into bed, I’ll be there in a minute.”

He went to shower, and laughed when, as he was getting out a short time later, he could hear Cass’s moans through the door. He walked out to see Steph, head buried between Cass’s thighs, ass in the air, while Cass was pulling and pinching at her own nipples. He leaned against the doorframe to watch, and Cass opened her eyes to meet his. She blushed, but was quickly distracted as Steph intensified her attack. Danny walked up, and felt Steph jump as he trailed his hand down along her butt before sliding two fingers into her. As her own moans vibrated against Cass’s clit, it was almost enough to send Cass over the edge. Danny slide his fingers out, and reached out to grab Steph’s ponytail, pulling lightly until she lifted away from Cass, who glared at Danny in betrayal. Danny guided Steph up to stand next to him, and gestured for Cass to move down the bed, lying in front of them. Turning Steph to face the bed, he leaned down to whisper in her ear.

“I do believe I mentioned something about bending you over some furniture.”

Steph blushed red, and Cass’s eyes jumped between them. Steph bent forward, and Cass eagerly led her face back down between her legs. But her eyes remained on Danny as he stepped forward, lined himself up, and began sliding his dick into Steph. She let out a gasp as Steph began eating her out. And could feel her sharp gasps every time Danny pushed into her. Watching him thrust in and out of her girlfriend, coupled with the feeling of Steph being pushed against her, had Cass falling apart. She came almost instantly, and kept coming until Steph, barely hanging on herself, arched her back as Danny reached down to pull at her hair again. Cass took the opportunity to slide down, nestling her way under Steph. She could now attack her tits, biting and sucking at her nipples while Danny fucked her. She was also able to reach down, fondling both Steph’s clit and Danny’s dick as he slide in and out of her. It was maddening, being so turned on, but Cass knew she wouldn’t be able to perform in the last dance if Danny took her. Steph had confessed to her the night before about how sore she was. Suddenly, she remembered Steph’s dream.

“Danny, slow down.”

Steph let out a frustrated moan as he listened, and pouted at Cass.

“Why?”

“Remember your dream? I want him to do it.”

Danny felt Steph clench down on him as Cass spoke, and nearly lost it there. He watched as Cass shimmied out from under Steph, and then stared as she flipped over, sliding back down. He felt her tongue begin to lick at the juices that dripped out of Steph and coated his dick. Steph turned to look over her shoulder at him.

“When your ready, cum down her throat.”

She felt his dick jump inside her, and he once again began fucking her properly. Coupled with Cass tongue dancing over her clit, Steph soon lost track of everything but the feelings they gave her. She could barely focus on Cass, spread open beneath her, but tried her best. After cumming too many times to count, she felt Danny slide out of her, and struggled to raise herself enough to watch as he shoved his dick deep into Cass’s mouth. She could feel Cass trembling beneath her and leaned forward to press her mouth against Cass slit, feeling as the added contact sent Cass over the edge as well.

After getting them cleaned up, Danny and Steph talked as Cass quickly succumbed to sleep. Steph let out a chuckle as she smoother her hand over Cass brow.

“You know, she’s going to be insatiable by the time its her turn.”

“You’re telling me. It almost seems mean.”

The final show went off without a hitch, marking one of the few times the troop had managed an entire run with no Rouge interference. That night, Danny and the girls made their preparations for heading to the Far Frozen the next morning. Steph was confused, and asked Danny about the timeline.

“Wouldn’t it make more sense to go tonight? We have to start wedding prep the day after tomorrow, with he wedding the next morning.”

Cass echoed her confusion, and blushed when Danny answered.

“Its like I said, the god of time is on our side. Time passes differently in the Realms. Besides, if not, Cass would probably lose her mind to have to wait til after the wedding to get her turn.”

Cass pouted when Steph looked at her, considered it, and agreed.

“Yeah probably. She’s been insatiable. Anything else we need to do?”

“No, everything’s packed. I gave Ellie some of my ecto, and she should sleep until we get their tomorrow.”

“Why the ecto?”

“The Realms may be a shock to her system, but my ecto will shield her Core. She’ll sleep cuz her Core is focused on processing it.”

While they had talked, Cass had fidgeted. She had been a little upset to think they had forgotten about her, and was happy, if not more than a little embarrassed, that Danny had taken that into consideration. She pulled at his sleeve.

“It won’t hurt her?”

“Waiting until tomorrow, no, not at all. Honestly, she’s more than likely perfectly fine, I’m just a worrywart.”

Accepting his answer, Cass turned to grab Steph’s arm, dragging her into the room as Danny laughed.

Danny finished up the packing, and set the final bag by the others. Walking into the bed room, he saw Steph and Cass exiting the bathroom. He leaned down to whisper in Steph’s ear, and Cass eyed them suspiciously as Steph nodded and laughed. He then passed by them, going to take his own shower.

Steph guided Cass to the bed, and propped up a pillow to cushion her back against the headboard. She gestured for Cass to sit in front of her, and then wrapped her arms around Cass as she lay with her back to Steph’s chest. Steph began tracing her hands over Cass’s body, from her boobs to her thighs, never lingering or focusing on any one spot. It was maddening, but Cass tried to be patient. She was on the edge of losing that battle when Danny joined them. He climbed up from the foot of the bed, and gently guided her legs apart as he knelt between them. Suddenly, Steph’s legs came up, tangling around Cass’s thighs to hold her open. Steph took her hands and brought them up the her mouth, pressing a kiss to her palms, before bringing them around to tangle them in her unbound hair. Cass rubbed her fingers together, rolling the silky blonde strands.

“Grab my hair, and don’t let go.”

Cass listened, and then Danny’s mouth was suddenly at her breast. She could feel his hands stroking along her thighs, and she wriggled, trying to get him to hurry up. All she accomplished was sliding a bit further down Steph, her head now resting on her boobs. She realized this was intentional, as Steph’s legs over her thighs had pinned her legs even further back. As Danny sat back to gaze at her, she blushed when she realized everything that was showing to him. He leaned forward, and slowly ran his fingers up her thigh, stopping just short of her slit.

“Be still.”

From there, Danny and Steph began a slow assault against her. Her hands in Steph’s hair left her tits exposed, and Steph pinched and rubbed to her hearts content, occasionally straying down to flick her clit or stroke her dripping slit. While Danny began pressing kisses and bites along her thighs, occasionally eating her out for just a few moments at a time. At one point, he had came up to kiss Steph, and his dick had ground against her while he did so. Cass tied to lift herself, hoping to slide him into her, but Steph had her pinned. It took nearly thirty minutes, and three more cycles of the same teasing, before she broke. Danny was kissing Steph, and she slide a hand down from her hair to guide Danny into her. He caught her hand, and brought it back up.

“Don’t let go, remember.”

Cass pouted at him, and then looked up at him, eyes wide.

“Please?”

Danny sat back, and looked at Steph.

“What do you think, Steph? Has she made up for driving you crazy?”

Steph pretended to contemplate as she let her fingers trail down to dip into Cass. She pumped them slowly, and Cass tried not to let out just how desperate she was. She was always sensitive, but had never been this keyed up.

“I guess so.”

Steph slide her fingers out, and Cass cried out as Danny’s dick instantly filled her Between the pleasure and the pain, she almost passed out. She heard Steph cooing in her ear as Danny remained still, giving her a chance to adjust. Still pinned down, she twitched her hips to get him moving.

Watching Steph over the past few days had been torture for Cass, but this more than made up for it. Danny rode her mercilessly, and she loved it. Her hands had slipped from Steph’s hair, but Steph had grabbed them in her own, holding them up and giving Cass something to ground herself on. She was crying out, breathless little shouts as she got closer and closer to her release, only for Danny to stop. He tapped Steph’s leg, and she released Cass. Danny then slid down the bed, pulling her with him, and soon had her laying on her back, her hips held up from the bed by his grip. The new angle sent Cass over immediately, but he didn’t stop thrusting into her. Cass soon felt Steph moving on the bed, and soon her girlfriend had settled over her. She began to eat her out as Danny slowed, letting her catch her breath as she serviced the blonde. She let out a pleased hum as Danny began fondling her tits, and Steph shuddered against her. Cass eagerly licked up at Steph, sending an orgasm ripping through her. Steph moved off of her, and Danny began to speed up his attack once again. Tapping on his hands at her waist, Cass requested that he set her down on the bed. He did, and she brought her feet up to rest by her head, hooking her arms under her knees to hold them up, and winking at his surprised expression. He quickly began to move inside her, and Cass let out a soft scream as he seemed to fill her all the way to her stomach. She was small enough that, when he leaned over her, driving his dick impossible deeper into her, that she was completely covered by him, and she loved it. She felt her biggest release building, and started begging Danny to move faster, to take her over the edge. He listened, and she felt his dick jerking inside her, filling her with his seed.

After that, things got a little blurry. She remembered crying out as she felt Steph’s tongue moving inside her, cleaning the mess that Danny had left. She sat up, more connected now, and watched as Step took Danny deep into her throat, cleaning him as well. Danny was sitting at the edge of the bed, Steph crouched in front of him. Cass crawled over to them, and saw that Danny was more than ready to go. She tapped the top of Steph’s head and motioned her back before crawling to straddle Danny’s lap, back to him, sliding his dick back into her. She couldn’t ride him like this, so she focused on twisting and clenching around him/ His hands came up to cup her breasts, thumbs teasing her nipples. They both gasped as they felt Steph’s tongue begin to slide over them both from where she now knelt between them. As Danny grew harder inside of her, He brought his hands down to lift her knees to her chest and then laid back on the bed, turning her around so she now faced him. He sat back up, and grabbed her ass, guiding her into a slow ride. Steph now stood behind her, pressing against her back and reaching down to fondle Danny’s sack. Soon, Cass started to speed up, and, when her rhythm started to stutter, Danny suddenly stood, hooking his hands under her legs and around her waist. She was unable to move as he began thrusting into her, and was entirely ok with that. She came hard once more, and Danny kept her riding him slowly as she came down from her high.

At this point, Cass was willing to share a bit. Danny was still hard inside her, and had yet to cum again. She whispered for him to set her down, and went to drag Steph to the bed. She laid her down at the edge, legs hanging off, and then pounced on her. Much like Steph had done to her, Cass used her own legs to pin Steph open beneath her. Her thighs held Steph’s legs open at the knee, raising her butt from the bed slightly. She grabbed her hands, pinning them to the bed beside her head. Her tits dropped to hang over Steph’s face, and she felt her mouth begin to work at her. She looked over her shoulder at Danny, knowing that he had a great view of both of them. Cass waited until he met her eyes before mouthing at him.

“Take her.”

Danny smiled, and moved forward. He first ran his hands over them both, before dipping his fingers quickly into Steph’s slit. He slid his fingers out and rubbed them over her, ensuring that she was completely ready before shoving his dick deep into her. Cass felt a flash of pain as Steph bit down on her tit, but Danny’s hands on her ass made it feel more like pleasure. He was holding on to her, using her body to hold Steph in place. Cass could feel Steph shuddering beneath her as Danny’s surprise attack sent her over the edge almost instantly. Cass leaned down to whisper in her ear, telling her that Danny wouldn’t stop until he was finished. As such, she was completely unprepared for Danny to slam into her. He took her just as fast as he had Steph, who was basking in her afterglow beneath her. As she felt him speed up, she called out to him, wanting him to cover them both with his cum. he obliged, pulling out of her and thrusting his dick to rub between their slits, pressed together as he pulled Cass back by her hips. The girls shuddered as they felt his seed stain their stomachs.

Danny got them both cleaned up, and fixed the bed before guiding them to climb under the blankets. He stepped out, soon returning with water for them, and set the glasses on the bedside table before joining them. They all quickly fell asleep.

Stepping into the Infinite Realms was both more and less exciting than Steph had expected. On one hand, it felt fairly similar to home, if more green. On the other, being a world where everyone could simply elect to ignore physics, the lack of clearly defined up and down gave her vertigo. Danny kept a hand on each of them as they adjusted. As she fought to keep her stomach under control, Ellie had wriggled her way out of Cass’s arms to transform, flying around them with interest. As soon as they had adjusted, Danny transformed as well. He took their hands in his and took off, flying towards a distant speck of white.

“That’s the Far Frozen, it should take us about half an hour to get there.”

The yetis were another familiar shock. They reminded her of Martian Manhunter. Clearly of another world, but also so kind and courteous that you forgot about it. The leader, Frostbite, had been patiently explaining every test he performed, and answered all of their questions. After declaring Ellie healthy, pending the results of a few more tests that took longer to run, he turned to face Steph and Cass.

“Now, as Liminals, do either of you have questions about your health?”

Steph hadn’t had any questions until now, but had no idea where to start. Cass, as always, did.

“What is different about us?”

“Well, you will be slightly above a baseline human in strength, reflexes, healing, and in your basic senses. Exposure to low levels of ectoplasm will not harm you, and can even enhance your basic functions even further, but will also result in increased Liminality, so it is not recommended. You can have a basic understanding of Ghost-speak, as well as slight empathetic abilities. Added to your status as Knights of Gotham, while in your city, you will find yourself seeming to be unusually lucky, with greater perception and intuition. As Consorts to the King, most ghosts will either obey or, at the least, not stand against, you or your wishes, and your Liminality will slowly accumulate until you are nearly halfas yourselves.”

Steph turned to look at Danny.

“Consorts, huh.”

He winced and rubbed his neck.

“Yeah, I kinda forgot about that. Putting my sigil on you…is kinda like a ghost engagement ring? But not, like, binding or anything.”

Cass put a hand on her arm, calming her.

“We will talk about it later. Frostbite, anything else?”

“Yes. The King mentioned he gave you each life essence? I suggest getting a scan to ensure all is right. Mortal medicine has some strange practices, and I wish to ensure there are no mishaps.”

The girls agreed, and each took a turn stepped into a large metal ring that float up and down around them several times. They then rejoined Frostbite, who showed them a transparent map of their bodies. There were several yellow and red marks on the projections.

“The yellow areas indicated where healing is still occurring, and the red where foreign objects are causing issues. I’m assuming them to be the screws and rods humans use for bone injuries. I advise, King Phantom, that you utilize either your ecto or magic to facilitate their removal and healing. As for the remaining scar tissue, it seems to be the effects of either intentional or incidental damage to their reproductive organs, and should be resolved in the next 6-8 months.”

Cass and Steph had both wondered about that, back when Danny had first explained what the marbles would do to them, and were satisfied with the explanation. Danny took his lead from them, and didn’t say much as Frostbite finished his examination of the girls. They soon were heading back home, with a promise to Frostbite to visit again. They were nearly back to the location of the original portal when they found themselves surrounded. The girls prepared for a fight, while Danny just sighed.

“Really, Dorathea?”

“Depends, Daniel. Were you truly planning on not visiting?”

Dora turned to face the girls, but was distracted at the sight if Ellie.

“Danielle? What has happened!”

The child scrunched her face up.

“No, I’m Ellie! Who are you?”

Danny explained to Dora what had happened, and calmed her when she began leaking smoke. The princess soon turned to face them again, bowing slightly.

“Greetings again, warriors. I am Princess Dorathea of the Dragon Lands, sworn sister and vassal of High King Phantom.”

Steph and Cass introduced themselves, and Dora turned to look back at Danny.

“As I’m sure my brother has by now thought of a multitude of reason you cannot join me for dinner, I would like to ask you permission to learn your pasts from the Library. Those who wear the King’s sigil will be sought by many, and I would hope to stand for you both in defense.”

They looked at Danny, who nodded after a moments thought.

“The Library will tell your story, not your thoughts. And she’s right. While most ghosts will honor the protection my sigil imparts, some will seek to challenge it, and you. By standing in your defense, they’d have to get past Dora to touch either of you, and few forces stand as strong as the Dragon Lands.”

The girls, realizing they may be a little out of their depths, agreed. After bidding their farewells, the left and soon returned to their own realm.

The wedding was starting, and everyone rose for the bride to enter. As a gift to the couple, Danny had employed several ghost photographers for the event. They would remain invisible, and capture the wedding in literal moments of time. He had specifically told them to capture the moment her father, the Waynes, and Dick saw Barbara walking, and Danny beamed. He and Ellie attended as ghosts, floating above the crowd unseen, but rejoined the living for the reception. Jim Gordon found them first, and he pulled Danny into a hug, thanking him without asking any questions. Bruce found him afterwards and did the same. Tim, Jason, Duke, and Damian, however, had about a million questions. It wasn’t until they were well into the reception that Danny had a chance to talk to Dick.

“Danny, oh my god.”

“Congrats, Dick. Oh, and here.”

Danny handed him a sealed letter.

“Open this later, when you guys have a minute alone.”

“Whose it from?”

“Babs knows, ask her about it before you open it.”

He had asked Cass to tell Babs about the letter, written by Dick’s parents, before the wedding started.

After the reception, carrying a sleeping Ellie, Danny flew back to the girls apartment. In the silence of the night, he got Ellie into bad, and made it back to the living room to wait for his girls. He knew that, with the wedding over, they had a lot to talk about. Neither side had had a chance to tell their full story, but he wasn’t worried. They had all the time in the world.