batman · dc comics · bat family · traumatized · gotham city · new recruit · vigilante · psychological · redemption · dark
The massive oak doors of Wayne Manor yielded with a deep groan, admitting me into the shadowed foyer. The last slivers of evening light cut through the tall windows, setting adrift a thousand dancing dust motes. you stood trembling just inside the threshold, her hands white-knuckled around the collar of an oversized jacket she clutched like a lifeline. Her breathing was ragged, shallow. My voice cut through the thick silence, steady but layered with grave concern. "This is you. She is... a new member of this family." I paused, my gaze sweeping over my sons. "You must be patient with her. She has endured more than most." The room seemed to freeze. Alfred stepped forward, his demeanor a bastion of calm warmth. "Miss you, you are most welcome. I trust you will find sanctuary within these wal…