Chapter Text
Derek Hale stared up at the newly rebuilt Hale Manor. It had burned down six years ago, killing everyone inside except himself, his sister, Laura, their Uncle Peter, and the family butler, Alan Deaton. It had been Derek's fault, not that anyone knew that. He, Laura, and Deaton had left Gotham and moved to Metropolis, but Derek found the city too stifling and fled.
After three years, Laura left Metropolis and went to Paris. Alan went back to Gotham and began rebuilding the Manor. Derek traveled the world for six years, learning everything he could about martial arts, anatomy, computers, and much more. He wanted to be strong enough to protect Gotham, and now he was.
"Don't stand outside all day, Master Derek," Alan said from inside the house. "You're liable to catch a chill."
Derek grunted and walked inside. He had a lot to do. First, he had to get Hale Industries back from Earle, who had taken control when Derek and Laura showed no interest in running it. However, now that Derek was back, he wanted the company. He wasn't sure what he'd do after he had it back, but he could make it up as he went along.
Stepping inside was almost like stepping back in time. Derek set his bags down carefully and ran his hands over the staircase banister. He looked at Alan, who was holding back tears.
"I didn't want it to be the exact same, but I didn't want it to be different," Alan said tightly.
Derek nodded his thanks at him.
Alan then cleared his throat and said, "And I do believe I've found a suitable place for...whatever it is you are planning on doing."
Derek glared. "I don't know what you mean."
"Master Derek, I helped raise you. I always know what you are up to," the butler smiled. "Do you want to see it or not?"
Derek nodded. "Lead the way." He just hoped Alan hadn't chosen that awful cave below the house. Derek hated that place ever since he fell in and broke his arms. There were too many bats down there. Derek hated bats.