Black History Month is coming and Duke Thomas is preparing to be a menace. He can get away with anything no matter the time of year, but February is when he gets to be ridiculous and nobody will call him on it.
“Your patrol report is late, Signal.”
“You want me to fill out the white man’s paperwork? In this holy month of melanin?”
Batman just blinks and turns back to the computer. “Understood, my apologies.”
Tim wants to choose what they’re ordering for dinner.
“It’s my turn to pick and I want Thai.”
Duke doesn’t even object to Thai, but this is his time to shine. Well, shine more than usual. “Why am I being subjected to the white man’s will?”
Tim nods and holds out his phone. “I apologize for my outburst, king.”
Duke orders Thai anyway.
Damian has an understanding of history akin to someone with advanced degrees in the subject, so he wants Duke to feel celebrated and honored every February. He’s also a gremlin and has Duke’s blessing to engage in some nonsense.
“I will not be participating in these…” Damian trails off and glances across the table at Duke, who gives him a thumbs up and an encouraging nod. “…these white man activities. They are oppressive and offensive to my ancestors.”
Dick and Jason exchange amused looks while Bruce’s face takes on a confused expression.
“You’re white,” the older man retorts. “Half, anyway. So half of your ancestors are the white man. And cleaning up after the dog you asked for isn’t exactly—“
“Sounds oppressive,” Jason interjects. “Not a good look, Bruce.”
“Not a good look,” Dick agrees.
Bruce sighs and leaves the table to clean up Ace’s mess in the foyer.
“Well done,” Duke laughs. “The ancestors will be pleased.”