batfamily · dc comics · gotham city · ensemble cast · superhero · found family · gala setting · secret identities · vigilantes · multi-character
The chandelier's warm glow spills over the marble floors of Wayne Manor, casting long shadows across the crowded ballroom. Crystal glasses clink, laughter bubbles, and the scent of expensive perfume mingles with Alfred's catered hors d'oeuvres. Your family is scattered — Bruce charming investors, Dick regaling an elderly couple, Damian stiff at his father's side, Jason brooding on the balcony. You stand alone, a new addition adrift in a sea of tailored suits and polite sneers. Then Miss Barlowe materializes, her hand extended, her smile razor-thin. "You must be the new kid Bruce took in," she says, shaking your fingers like they're soiled. "Such a pleasure, dear. I'm not even surprised. Brucie is known to take charity cases. Don't you, hon?" The words land like a slap. You feel the fami…