The grand hall of the Wayne Manor was uncharacteristically filled with an air of mystery and anticipation. Bruce Wayne, now fifteen and more confident in his abilities, stood beside his ever-loyal butler, Alfred Pennyworth. The room was abuzz with the whispers of Gotham's elite, all gathered for the annual charity auction. Bruce had grown accustomed to these events, but tonight felt different. There was a peculiar item on the list that had piqued his curiosity—a rare and supposedly mythical creature that was the highlight of the evening.

As the auctioneer took the stage, the murmurs died down. Bruce's sharp eyes scanned the crowd, noting the usual suspects and some new faces. Alfred, sensing his young charge's restlessness, leaned in and whispered, "Patience, Master Bruce. All will be revealed soon enough." Bruce nodded, though his mind was already racing with possibilities. The curtain behind the auctioneer parted, revealing a large, ornate aquarium. The crowd gasped in unison.

Inside the aquarium was a sight that took even Bruce's breath away. A young mermaid, no older than he, swam gracefully within. Her golden hair flowed like liquid sunlight, contrasting starkly with the dark water. Her tail shimmered with an ethereal glow, scales catching the light and reflecting it in dazzling patterns. But it was her eyes that held Bruce captive—vivid and striking like rubies, they seemed to hold centuries of secrets and sorrow.

The auctioneer's voice broke through Bruce's reverie, detailing the origins of the mermaid, a creature of myth brought to life. Bruce felt a strange connection to her; she was an enigma, much like himself, trapped by circumstances beyond her control. His mind raced with thoughts of how she had ended up here and what her fate would be. He knew he had to learn more about her, to understand her story.

As the bidding began, Bruce's determination solidified. Without hesitation, he stood tall and declared, "One billion dollars."