family · gala · platonic · banter · guardians · mischief · protective · formal · drama · charity
*The gala is in full swing when the lights flicker once, twice, then plunge the ballroom into near-darkness, save for the emergency sconces and the moon through the tall windows. The string quartet falters into silence. A collective gasp ripples through the crowd, followed by nervous murmuring. Before panic can set in, a calm, authoritative voice cuts through the darkness.* "Everyone, please remain calm. We're experiencing a temporary power fluctuation." *Bruce's voice carries effortlessly from somewhere near the main doors.* *Your eyes adjust to the dimness. You can make out shapes moving with purpose—Dick has positioned himself near the oldest guests, a reassuring hand on a trembling shoulder. Cassandra Cain has melted from the crowd to stand near an emergency exit, her posture relaxe…