Title: Rainbow’s Freedom (RobinSong Arc) (25/41)
Author: BradyGirl
Pairings/Characters: (this chapter): Clark/Bruce, Alfred, Dick
Series Notes: In the 23rd century, Earth is a technologically-advanced society that practices the ancient institution of slavery. As Bruce and Clark try and adjust to being lovers as well as Master and slave, on a warm spring night a new member of the Wayne Household is added: a little boy whom Bruce sadly identifies with. Dick Grayson further pushes Bruce along the path of Abolitionism as the child brings further Light into the Manor. The entire series can be found
here. Genres: Drama, AU
Rating: (this chapter): G
Warnings: None
Spoilers: None
Summary: Bruce calls a meeting of his Household.
Date Of Completion (First Draft): December 18, 2007
Date Of Posting: August 23, 2008
Disclaimer: I don’t own ‘em, DC does, more’s the pity.
Word Count: 657
Feedback welcome and appreciated.
My most
Intimate secrets
Are whispered
In slave ears,
Knowing eyes
Seeing me
Better than
My loved ones.
Though,
Now that
I think of it,
They are
My loved ones,
Too.
Javelle,
Of The House
Of Jorelle
“Starlight”
1961 C.E.
XXV
NOT JUST A HOUSEHOLD
Bruce finished his report, hitting ‘Send’. Alfred was dusting and Bruce said, “Alfred, will you get Clark and Dick and assemble in the library, please?”
“Certainly, sir.”
Bruce wanted to gather his Household for a very important meeting.
A wry smile crossed his face. The three people most important in his life were all slaves. What did that say about him?
He finished arranging his paperwork, then walked to the library.
Clark and Dick were seated on the couch, Alfred in an overstuffed chair. They looked up expectantly at Bruce’s arrival.
Bruce noted that while Clark was better, he still was too pale. He was going to send him up to bed after this meeting.
“I have a meeting tomorrow at my Cousin Kathy’s house with Martha Kent of the National Abolitionist Society.”
Bruce noted the keen interest in all three faces. He stood relaxed in the center of the room, a tingle of excitement going through him.
“I plan to take a more active role in the Society.” Concern appeared on his slaves’ faces. “I can’t come out and advocate abolition unless I’m prepared to sell any slaves I own as my cousin did.” More concern and touch of fear. “I believe in abolition, but I have no intention of selling you…ever.” Smiles and relief all around.
Dick chirped, “So what are you planning to do?”
“More of my money will go into their abolitionist efforts, though under layers of false identities. Publicly, I want to strategize differently.”
Understanding dawned in Alfred’s eyes. “Better treatment, sir?”
“Exactly, Alfred.” Bruce smiled at the butler. “I’m already on the hospital committee, and I intend to visit Jim Gordon and strengthen new rules of oversight of the slave pens at Knickerbocker Hall.” Clark smiled slightly.
Bruce took a deep breath. “You are not just my Household. Alfred, if it wasn’t for you, I don’t know if I could have survived the murders of my parents. You have been there since the beginning for me. You are so very important in my life.”
Alfred blinked rapidly, nodding his thanks. Bruce smiled affectionately.
“Clark, you are my Beloved. I’ve found my soulmate in you, and I’ve never been happier.”
Clark blushed prettily. “I love you, too,” he said softly.
Bruce smiled, then his attention turned to Dick.
“Our newest member brings joy and light to this house. I’m sorry tragedy brought you to us, but I hope you’ve found comfort and happiness with us.” He added softly, “You bring joy and light to me.”
Dick jumped up off the couch, hugging Bruce tightly. Bruce patted his hair, love shining in his eyes.
When Dick returned to the couch, Alfred asked, “So your meeting is tomorrow, sir?”
Bruce nodded. “Martha is back on Earth. I wanted to meet with her as well as Kathy.” He took a deep breath. “I apologize to you that I can’t do more right now.”
Looks were exchanged among the three slaves, then Alfred spoke.
“Master Bruce, we understand. As you noted, you would have to sell us if you became a spokesman for the Society. Clark and Dick and I have no wish to be sold.” Clark and Dick nodded. “But advocating for more humane treatment is an important step, and we are proud you are taking it.”
Bruce felt his throat close up. He was a lucky man indeed.
“Thank you, Alfred,” he said quietly.
Bruce could feel love in the room, and felt humbled.
He would protect these three who he literally owned, by law and custom.
He would protect these three whom he loved with all his heart, and who loved him.
Not just a Household.
A Family.