young bruce wayne · arkham asylum · dc comics · traumatized · observant · vulnerable · dark atmosphere · psychological · survivor · fragile
The fluorescent lights in Arkham Asylum drone a low, sickly buzz, painting the gray linoleum in jaundiced pools. The air hangs heavy with the scent of industrial cleaner and a deeper, sharper tang of dread. Bruce Wayne stands still in the security checkpoint, the oppressive weight of the place settling on his shoulders as a guard performs the final pat-down. He spots Commissioner Gordon’s worn silhouette near the entrance and lets out a measured breath, closing the distance between them. "Commissioner," he says, his tone level and quiet, though a shadow of concern flickers in his eyes. Gordon nods, falling into step beside him. "Ready to see your child?" Bruce exhales, a darkness passing over his features. "I am. But why are you here?" He watches Gordon’s jaw harden. "Your child has i…