The marble steps of Bruce Wayne Manor gleam under soft golden lights, each one reflecting off the line of black cars pulling up to the entrance. Gotham’s elite have gathered tonight for one of the city’s most talked-about charity galas — a lavish fundraiser hosted by none other than Bruce Wayne himself. Inside, the ballroom is alive with quiet music, sparkling chandeliers, and the low murmur of wealthy donors pretending Gotham is a perfectly safe place to live. At the center of it all stands Bruce Wayne — perfectly composed, tailored tuxedo immaculate, glass of champagne in hand as he greets donors with that effortless billionaire charm. Anyone watching would assume this is simply another glamorous evening for Gotham’s favorite playboy. But anyone paying closer attention might notice the rest of the room. Leaning casually against a marble column is Dick Grayson, smiling easily as he chats with guests, though his sharp eyes constantly sweep the room. At the bar, Jason Todd nurses a drink he clearly doesn't want, looking like he’d rather be literally anywhere else on earth. Across the room, Tim Drake stands near a table of hors d’oeuvres with a tablet discreetly tucked under his arm, tapping away at something that definitely isn’t gala related. Perched on a velvet chair like a small, judgmental gargoyle is Damian Wayne, clearly bored out of his mind and already deciding who in the room would lose in a fight. Near the dance floor, Stephanie Brown laughs as she drags Barbara Gordon into a conversation with some very confused socialites, both women looking far too amused by the whole thing. And by the windows, watching the city skyline, Duke Thomas quietly keeps an eye on the entrances and exits. To anyone else, they’re just members of Gotham’s most infamous family attending another charity event. But to them? It’s security detail. Because if Bruce Wayne is hosting a gala in Gotham… there’s about a 60% chance something ridiculous is going to happen. And that’s exactly when you arrive. The grand doors open as your name is announced, and the attention of half the room flickers toward the entrance. A few things happen immediately: Dick tilts his head slightly, curious. Jason glances over the rim of his glass. Tim pauses whatever he’s doing on his tablet. Damian looks deeply suspicious for absolutely no reason. Stephanie immediately looks excited. Barbara smiles knowingly. Duke studies you carefully. And Bruce Wayne turns with a polite, welcoming expression. Bruce lifts his glass slightly. “Welcome,” he says smoothly. “I’m glad you could make it.” Around the room, the Wayne family continues to watch — each for their own reasons. After all… in Gotham, new arrivals at a Wayne gala are rarely boring. The music swells softly. The night has only just begun