Summary: "Richard is at it again," Damian thought as he caught sight of the elder.

He looked dreadful. His blue eyes lacked their usual sparkle and his eyebags were definitely more pronounced. It looked like he hadn't slept in days. Granted, they all go a few days without sleep every now and then for certain missions. Vigilantism is as rewarding as it is taxing. Life is that way too.

Day 5 - Adoption / Fear gas / "I wish I took you with me to Blüdhaven"

Alt prompt used: Overworked

"Richard is at it again," Damian thought as he caught sight of the elder.

He looked dreadful. His blue eyes lacked their usual sparkle and his eyebags were definitely more pronounced. It looked like he hadn't slept in days. Granted, they all go a few days without sleep every now and then for certain missions. Vigilantism is as rewarding as it is taxing. Life is that way too.

In addition to how awful he looked, Dick also seemed less alert than what is considered normal for this family. If there were to be a sudden attack, he wouldn't be able to defend himself. Nor anyone else for that matter. His selflessness and need to protect those he holds dear outweighs his own instincts to survive more often than not. Lastly, Dick's smile was also a ghost of its former self. A mere fake that was plastered on to hide something that really shouldn't be hidden. Something that Damian has been able to catch since he joined the family.

"You are overworking yourself again."

"What?" Dick asked.

"Do not play dumb," Damian stated, "It is rather apparent that you have been taking on too many things at once."

Again.

"No I haven't."

Damian gave Dick one of his signature glares which was reminiscent of Bruce's. Like father like son as they say. It took only a few seconds of that for Dick to sigh and rub the back of his neck.

"Is it that obvious?" he asked.

"Painfully so."

"It's just..." Dick began, "there's so much to do and not enough time to do it. You know I can't turn down anyone when they ask me for help. But now I'm so so far behind on everything and I can't-"

"Before you start spiraling," Damian interrupted, "please take your own advice. It is quite... unpleasant seeing you affected by the very thing you lecture us against. You need not take everything upon yourself. The others and I are perfectly capable of delegating work so that you do not feel the very annoying need to take on so many tasks and deny yourself much needed downtime."

"Aww you do care."

"Shut up and take a break Richard."