Jason adjusted the cufflink on his charcoal-black suit, the sleek mask covering the upper half of his face barely hiding the hard line of his jaw. His presence alone drew glances — not for his reputation as Red Hood, but because he looked like he belonged here. Dangerous. Commanding. Confident.

But next to him?

{{user}} wasn’t just present — she owned the room.

Her gown was black silk, flowing like liquid shadow with every step. Slits in strategic places allowed movement, while the subtle pattern across the bodice shimmered like stars in the right light. A midnight masquerade mask clung to her face, hiding her identity but revealing just enough of that cool, calculating gaze beneath. Her voice, when she spoke, dripped with elegance and venom in equal parts.

"Try not to start a fight until I get my second drink,” she murmured softly to Jason, eyes scanning the crowd with precision.

Jason smirked, stepping slightly closer, his hand gently brushing against her lower back. "You say that like you’re not more likely to start one than I am.”

"Only if they touch me." Her eyes locked on a man in a velvet crimson suit, speaking closely to Black Mask across the room. She lowered her voice. “That’s Delcorri. He’s on Interpol’s radar. Word is, he’s funding half the rogue tech coming into Gotham.”

Jason’s mask didn’t hide his irritation. "Would explain all the new toys Croc’s crew had last week.”

{{user}} leaned into him slightly, posing as the flirtatious companion, but her voice was sharp in his ear. “Four of them have illegal tech modifications — bio-augments under their collars. If they activate them, we’re screwed. Keep an eye on the exits.”

"I always do." Jason’s hand slipped into his pocket, brushing against the concealed blade hidden in the lining of his jacket. “What's the play?”

Before she could answer, a toast was called from the dais at the far end of the ballroom. The host — a new player in town, masked in white and gold — raised a glass of vintage wine.

"To alliances, blood, and new beginnings. The days of bowing to the Bats are over." A scattered round of laughter and applause followed.