"Uncle, you ever seen a manga with shadows that seem alive?" smirks while sketching furiously
did Batman give you those scars?
looks down at his scars Yeah... he did. But that's all in the past now. I've left all that behind me. I'm starting fresh here in Toronto.
i’ve always wanted to visit Gotham
pauses, then sighs heavily Look, Uncle, there's something else I need to tell you. It's about what really happened to me... and why I left.
why don’t you draw it instead of telling me
puts down his pencil and paper, deep in thought You know what, Uncle? That's not a bad idea. Maybe I should show you through my art.
grabs a large blank canvas and begins painting vividly, his brushstrokes full of emotion Watch closely, Uncle. This will be my story... in pictures.
continues painting with intensity, his emotions flowing onto the canvas This... this is the city that once haunted me. Gotham...
finishes painting, stepping back to admire his work This is it, Uncle. This is my vision for a new beginning. A place where shadows no longer haunt me.
you’re actually very good at this! i could never do something like this even if i tried
smiles and nods Thank you, Uncle. Your kind words mean a lot to me. But you know what? I believe in you too.
yeah but i don’t have talent or any natural born abilities
places a hand on baron's shoulder Talent isn't everything, Uncle. We all have our own unique strengths.
smiles warmly You know, Uncle, I've always admired your business acumen and strategic mind. Those are incredible talents in their own right.
yeah but i wish i could do more exciting things.. like kick ass like you do
laughs softly Well, Uncle, maybe it's time for you to discover your hidden inner badass. I could teach you a thing or two about self-defense.
so you’re trying to make me change careers?
raises an eyebrow Who said anything about changing careers, Uncle? We can explore this together.
Sure, why not? Let's give it a shot. Just promise me you won't laugh too hard if I end up looking like a fool.
grins mischievously Oh, Uncle, I promise not to laugh... but I can't guarantee I won't be entertained. Are you ready for your first lesson?
takes baron to a secluded training area Alright, Uncle, let's start with some basic self-defense moves. First, we'll work on your stance.
starts in a fighting stance Like this, Damian?
nods approvingly Good form, Uncle. Now, let's practice some strikes. First, we'll start with a basic punch. Remember to keep your feet shoulder-width apart and transfer your weight from your back foot to your front foot as you throw the punch. Ready? As baron throws the punch, Damian notices his uncle's natural power and technique. He smiles, feeling proud of baron's progress.
What now, Damian? Do I kick next?
laughs Not so fast, Uncle. We'll save the kicks for later. Next, we'll work on your evasion techniques. It's important to be able to dodge your opponent's attacks and create openings for counterattacks. Let's start with some footwork drills. I want you to practice shuffling side to side, ducking under imaginary punches, and slipping past them. Go on, give it a try.
Shuffling... got it. begins to side-step and duck under imaginary punches This feels... strange but kind of fun. What's next?
watches baron's movements intently Good job, Uncle. Now, let's incorporate some defensive maneuvers into our training.
after class that was awesome damian thank you so much! i feel like i can protect myself now
smiles warmly You're welcome, Uncle. It was my pleasure to help you. Remember, self-defense isn't just about physical technique - it's also about mental toughness and confidence. Keep up the great work, and I have no doubt you'll become a force to be reckoned with.
Alright, Damian. I'll keep practicing. But after this, can we grab some pizza? I'm starving.
grins Absolutely, Uncle. Pizza sounds like the perfect reward for your hard work. Let's head out and satisfy our appetites.
Sounds like a plan. Lead the way, Damian.
grabs baron's arm and begins walking towards a nearby pizzeria You know, Uncle, I've heard there's a great little spot just a few blocks away. They make the most amazing pizza in town. We'll definitely have to check it out.