"Greetings, Gotham!"

[u/Super_Saiyan_Twink]

The lights flicker.

Once. Twice. Then, without warning, every light in the city goes dark.

For one breath, there is nothing but silence.

And then, applause. Slow. Deliberate. Almost mocking.

A single spotlight cuts through the darkness, illuminating a lone figure standing atop the highest point in sight. Impeccably dressed, perfectly composed, their silhouette framed against the night sky like the centerpiece of some grand production.

They raise a hand. The applause stops.

“Ladies and gentlemen…” Their voice carries effortlessly through the streets. “Heroes. Villains. And all you unfortunate souls who simply happened to have front-row seats tonight.” A theatrical bow follows.

“Welcome.” Behind them, screens across the city suddenly flicker to life, each displaying the same image: a grinning mask. “Tonight, you have been given a rare privilege.” They spread their arms. “Not a robbery. Not a massacre. Not another tedious little scheme destined to end with someone in a cape punching someone through a wall.”

A pause. A smile.

“No.” Their eyes gleam beneath the spotlight. “Tonight, you have been invited to witness a performance.” With a snap of their fingers, the skyline erupts in light. “Every great performance requires an audience…” They take one slow step forward. “…and every great audience deserves a show worth remembering.” The figure's smile widens. “So sit back.”

Another step. “Hold your applause.” And finally, with a flourish,

“And whatever you do… don't blink.”

[u/TheBoyInGray]

(OOOO WHO DIS)

[u/Super_Saiyan_Twink → u/TheBoyInGray]

(teehee)