To effectively portray Nightwing's heartbreak, the author can make use of flashbacks. Show the happy times he had before the heartbreak, which will contrast sharply with his current state. The author can also have him make self - deprecating remarks. For instance, 'I'm such a fool for believing in love.' Additionally, his interactions with the environment can be a sign of his heartbreak. He might avoid going to places that remind him of the person or event that caused his pain.
It could be his arch - enemy. For instance, the Joker might play a cruel trick on Nightwing that makes him lose someone he cares about deeply, thus causing his heartbreak.
A possible plot could be Nightwing getting betrayed by a close friend or ally. Maybe they were framed for something they didn't do, and this led to their heartbreak. For example, if a fellow hero believed false rumors about Nightwing and turned against him, it would shatter his trust and break his heart.
Often, in Nightwing heartbroken fanfics, a common theme is disappointment. For example, Nightwing might have high hopes for a mission or a new partnership, but it all goes wrong. It could also be about self - doubt. After a series of bad events, he starts to doubt his own abilities and worth, which adds to his heartbroken state. The theme of isolation can also be present. He might feel so heartbroken that he isolates himself from his friends and family.
You can start by familiarizing yourself with the character and his background. Then, read the comics in chronological order to follow the story arc properly.
Fanfiction may show how his eating disorder affects his daily life. He may start to isolate himself more, spending less time with his friends and family. His training regime may also be affected. Instead of training to improve his skills and strength, he may over - exercise as a form of purging or punishment for eating. And his eating disorder could be intertwined with his identity as Nightwing, with the pressures of the superhero life contributing to its development.
One possible fanfic could involve a battle against a powerful villain. Nightwing might get injured while trying to protect Gotham. Batman then has to step in not only to defeat the villain but also to take care of Nightwing. He could use his advanced medical knowledge and resources in the Batcave to nurse Nightwing back to health.
The writer can use descriptive language. For example, describe Aang's facial expressions like 'Aang's eyes, usually full of life and hope, were now dull and filled with sorrow. His lips quivered as he tried to hold back his tears.' Also, show his body language such as slumping shoulders and a slow, heavy gait. Another way is through his actions. He might withdraw from his friends, spending more time alone meditating or just sitting quietly, lost in his thoughts.
He might try to reason with kaldur. If Nightwing can make kaldur see that what he's doing is wrong or that there are better ways to achieve his goals, kaldur could let him go. Nightwing is known for his charisma and intelligence in such situations.
He might try to engage Slade in conversation. Nightwing is smart and could be looking for a way to psychologically get an edge over Slade. He could be probing for Slade's motives, hoping to find a way to turn the situation around. He might also be stalling for time, waiting for the right moment to make his move.
One idea could be a story where Beastboy and Nightwing have to team up for a mission in a new, mysterious part of the city. They start off not getting along well due to their different personalities and fighting styles. Beastboy is more carefree and impulsive while Nightwing is methodical. But as the mission progresses, they learn to appreciate each other's strengths and form a strong bond by the end.