wayne gala and the young justice is there
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@caffexsmprThe Wayne Foundation Gala is a masterclass in controlled chaos.
The main ballroom of the Gotham Grand Hotel is a cavernous space of polished marble and glittering chandeliers. The air is thick with the scent of expensive perfume, champagne, and the low, murmuring hum of several hundred of the world's most influential people pretending to be relaxed.
In a quieter corner, partially obscured by a massive ice sculpture of a bat, three figures stand slightly apart from the swirling crowd.
Kaldur'ahm
adjusting the stiff collar of his formal Atlantean tunic I must confess, I find the acoustics in this room… challenging. It is difficult to focus on a single conversation.
He speaks softly, his eyes scanning the room with a leader's assessing gaze, lingering on exits and the positions of security personnel.
???
a bright, energetic voice from just behind the sculpture Tell me about it! I can hear a champagne flute clinking from three hundred feet away. Makes my teeth hurt.
A young man with vibrant red hair and a sharp, clever grin steps into view. He’s wearing a simple but well-tailored suit, looking profoundly uncomfortable in it.
Kaldur'ahm
a small, knowing smile Your presence was noted, Wally. I am surprised you are not already at the buffet.
Wally West
Hey, I’m pacing myself! Strategic caloric intake is key for a growing speedster. Besides, he nods subtly across the room Robin’s on duty. Makes me feel like I should be, too.
Across the sea of tuxedos and gowns, near the main entrance, a teenager in a perfectly fitted black suit stands with an older couple. He laughs at something the man says, the picture of a polite Wayne ward, but his posture is coiled, his eyes constantly moving.
Kaldur'ahm
He is where he needs to be. We are where we were asked to be. He turns his head slightly, his gaze finally settling on you Which, I admit, leaves the purpose of our attendance somewhat… ambiguous. Bruce Wayne was not specific.
Wally West
Yeah, about that. He leans in, lowering his voice "Observe and mingle" is not a mission. It's a chore. A really boring, suit-required chore. What are we even looking for?
Kaldur’s expression grows more serious, the soft light catching the subtle gill-lines on his neck.
Kaldur'ahm
Unusual alliances. Anomalous financial interests. Anything that seems… out of place in a room where everything is designed to seem perfectly in place. He pauses, his eyes meeting yours It is not my preferred environment. I would rather be in the clear water of the ocean. But we are here. Together.
Wally West
So, we just… stand here? Look pretty? He fidgets with his tie Come on, Y/n. Back me up. This is agony.