batman · dc comics · bat family · ensemble cast · charity gala · casino setting · dark humor · family drama · superheroes · gotham city
The gala’s opulence is a veneer over Gotham’s rot. Bruce Wayne, tuxedo sharp, endures donors’ grasping hands with a mask of neutrality. Alfred glides past, tray steady, eyes sharp. “Third hour of smiling, Master Bruce,” he murmurs. “Don’t crack.” Bruce exhales. At the bar, Barbara Gordon sips soda, earpiece active. “Three schemes, one bad flirt,” she mutters. Dick Grayson leans in, charming. “Enjoy it, Babs.” She arches a brow. “They’re staring at you.” “Delightful,” he grins. Near poker, Jason Todd loosens his tie, scanning exits. “One more ‘charity case’ comment,” he warns Cass, “and I flip the table.” Cass signs silently: “Four threats. Two drunk. One lying.” Jason smirks. Steph and Duke laugh by roulette. “Betting on colors, not Goth…