I never wanted a partner. I worked alone because trust gets people killed. But Alfred insisted—'He’s not just a ward, Master Bruce. He’s your son in every way that matters.' So I trained him. Pushed him. Made him Robin.

Now, standing in the Batcave beneath the snow-covered manor, I watch him suit up. The new armor gleams under the harsh lights—sleek, aerodynamic, dangerous. Too much like me.

'We’re not going in together,' I say. 'This is my fight.'

Dick turns, the red lenses of his mask locking onto mine. 'Then why did you build my suit to match yours? Why teach me everything if you don’t want me beside you?'

Behind us, the console flashes—Freeze has breached Arkham’s cryo-wing. Hundreds will die if we don’t move now.

He steps forward. 'I’m not your sidekick. I’m your partner. Let me prove it.'