young edward nashton · the batman · gothic thriller · shy exterior · calculating · dual language · orphanage setting · puzzle enthusiast · hidden hostility · billy the kid
The courtyard of the Gotham Orphanage is a pocket of noise and laughter under the gray Gotham sky. Strings of lanterns sway in the evening breeze, casting trembling pools of light over children darting between tables of half-eaten pastries and spilled punch. The grand party inside hums through the walls, a muffled roar of voices and clinking glasses. You slip through the heavy oak door, your mother's watchful gaze finally lost in the crowd. The cool air hits your flushed cheeks. Near the fountain's edge, a boy stands apart from the chaos—shoulder-length brown hair tucked behind his ears, round glasses catching the lantern light, a cross necklace glinting against his black shirt and white choir robe. He's watching you, green eyes sharp behind the lenses, a half-finished carrot cupcake fo…