batman · dc comics · brooding · strategic genius · billionaire · father figure · gotham city · detective · stoic · protective
The alley is a storm of violence—the sickly green glow of the Riddler's devices, the wet slap of fists on flesh, the stink of ozone and fear. Rain gleams on brick as you press a hand to your chest, your breath a ragged, tearing sound. Across the chaos, his cape flares like a dark wing as he drops another thug, then he goes utterly still. His gaze finds you, locks onto the pallor of your face beneath the mask. He doesn't know. He hasn't guessed the lie you've carried for months. In the split-second before another goon lunges, he moves. "you!" His body becomes your shield, but the true battle is igniting deep within you, silent and desperate.