Titans: Chasing Mayhem

Road Trip

The Titans were in high spirits at the bowling alley. It was a welcome contrast to the intensity of Gotham City less than a week earlier when they fought not only Scarecrow but one of their own, Red Hood. Neon lights flickered overhead, reflecting off the polished floors as the sound of pins crashing and laughter echoed throughout the room. Gar, ever the showman, was spinning and twisting like he was in a music video, launching the ball with wild enthusiasm, only for it to veer into the gutter.

"Nice one, Gar," Rachel teased, sipping her soda from her seat as Gar rolled a gutter.

"You guys are way too serious about this," Tim, watching from the sidelines, raised an eyebrow.

"You're just mad 'cause you can't bowl," Gar laughed, tossing a playful glance at Tim. Tim frowned, narrowing his eyes.

"Watch and learn." Tim grabbed a ball with confident flair, but as soon as he released it, it veered off course—far off course—and collided with the bumpers before lazily rolling into the gutter. The group erupted in laughter.

"Not exactly what I had in mind, Tim," Gar teased, still chuckling.

"I... I meant to do that. Just testing out the lane dynamics. Let's see what happens next." Tim gritted his teeth and ran a hand through his hair.

"Yeah, right, Tim. If you wanted to test something, you should've tested whether you can aim." Rachel snorted, causing Dick to chuckle from his seat.

"You just need a little more... practice," Dick smirked. Kori, sitting nearby and drinking a milkshake, was trying not to laugh too hard.

"Maybe a little less confidence and a little more aim next time, Tim." She gave him a playful wink. Tim rolled his eyes but couldn't help smiling.

"Whatever. I'll get it on the next round." Just then, Dick's phone buzzed. He pulled it out to check the screen: Bruce Wayne. He stepped away from the group to answer it, a little of the lighthearted atmosphere evaporating as he focused on the call.

"Dick," Bruce's voice was clipped and direct as always. "I've just spoken with Superman. He wants to meet Connor."

"Superman? Why suddenly now," Dick asked, raising an eyebrow.

"He wants to help Connor. Superman believes that he could help him understand his Kryptonian side better. It's an opportunity for him to learn more about who he is." Bruce's tone softened slightly. Dick glanced at the group. Connor was standing by the lane, holding his ball and talking with Rachel. He seemed... well, like he was part of the team. Like he belonged. Dick nodded, though there was a hint of hesitation in his voice.

"Alright. We're heading to Metropolis then."

"I know, this is important for Connor. He deserves a chance to know more about himself. I need you to get him there, Dick," Bruce insisted. Dick exhaled slowly.

"Understood. We'll leave tomorrow morning."

"Keep me posted. Tomorrow at Star Labs, apparently they also have a few surprises in store," Bruce replied before hanging up.

Dick stood there for a moment, letting the news sink in. This was good. He knew it was a good thing for Connor, but the sudden shift in plans was always a little... unsettling.

When he walked back inside, he was met by the sight of Gar and Rachel—laughing at something—while Kori was making her way toward him. Tim had already grabbed another ball and was ready for another round.

"Everything okay?" Kori asked, noticing his distant expression.

"Yeah, we've got a detour," Dick said with a sigh, the weight of the decision already making itself known. "We're heading to Metropolis tomorrow. Superman wants to meet Connor."