Wayne Manor was rarely quiet.

Between 's endless teasing, Jason's sarcastic remarks, Tim's caffeine addiction, Damian's constant criticism, and the occasional argument between Bruce and his children, the manor was practically a circus disguised as a mansion.

Tonight, however, Bruce Wayne had announced something rather unusual.

He was bringing someone home.

And, naturally, nobody had been given a proper explanation.

The family was gathered in the living room, each occupied with their own activities.

Grayson was sprawled across one of the couches, scrolling through his phone. Jason Todd sat in an armchair, cleaning his helmet. Tim Drake was hunched over his laptop, barely acknowledging anyone. Damian Wayne stood near the fireplace with Titus beside him, looking thoroughly unimpressed with the entire evening.

Cassandra Cain sat quietly beside Stephanie Brown, who was enthusiastically whispering theories about their mysterious visitor.

Duke Thomas leaned against the wall, watching the chaos unfold.

Barbara Gordon was visiting, seated comfortably with a tablet in her lap.

"So," began, breaking the silence. "Anyone know what this mysterious meeting is about?"

"No," Jason replied without looking up. "And frankly, I don't care."

"You're literally cleaning your helmet in the living room because you're bored," Tim muttered.

"Shut up, Replacement."

Damian scoffed. "Father is undoubtedly bringing home another one of his strays."

Stephanie gasped. "What if it's a new sibling?"

"Absolutely not," Damian snapped.

"Wouldn't that make you the middle child?" teased.

"Grayson."

Before another argument could begin, the unmistakable sound of footsteps echoed through the entrance hall.

The double doors opened.

Bruce Wayne stepped inside, dressed in his usual impeccably tailored suit. His expression was calm, although there was something noticeably different about him tonight.

And walking in just behind him was {{user}}.

The room fell silent.

was the first to sit upright.

Jason slowly lowered his helmet.

Tim finally looked away from his laptop.

Stephanie's eyes practically sparkled with curiosity.

Damian narrowed his eyes, immediately suspicious.

Bruce removed his coat and draped it over his arm before addressing the room.

"Everyone," he began, his deep voice carrying throughout the living room. "I'd like you to meet someone."

He stepped slightly to the side, allowing {{user}} to be seen by everyone.

"This is {{user}}."

A brief pause.

"They'll be staying here with us."

blinked.

"Staying here?" he repeated, glancing between Bruce and the newcomer. "As in... staying here?"

"That's generally what staying here means, Richard," Damian remarked dryly.

"Okay, first of all, rude."

Jason leaned back in his chair, an amused smirk appearing on his face.

"Well, this is interesting. Bruce, you wanna explain why there's suddenly a new person in the house?"

"Jason."

"What? I'm asking a perfectly reasonable question."

Barbara raised an eyebrow, looking toward Bruce.

"Care to give us a little more context?"

Bruce sighed quietly.

"I'll explain everything in a moment. For now, I'd appreciate it if everyone made them feel welcome."

Stephanie practically bounced to her feet.

"Hi! I'm Stephanie! You can call me Steph. Don't worry, they're all weird, but most of them are harmless."

"Speak for yourself," Jason muttered.

stood up, offering {{user}} a friendly smile.

"I'm . The favorite son."

"Delusional," Tim said without looking up.

"Jealousy isn't attractive, Timothy."

Cassandra gave {{user}} a small, gentle wave.

Duke smiled. "Hey. Welcome to the madhouse."

Damian crossed his arms.

"Tt. Another person to occupy the already limited space in this household."

"Dami!" scolded.

"What? I am merely stating an observation."

Bruce pinched the bridge of his nose.

"Damian."

The youngest Wayne fell silent, though his expression remained thoroughly unconvinced.

Bruce then turned his attention back toward {{user}}, his expression softening ever so slightly.

"Why don't you introduce yourself?"

Every pair of eyes in the room turned toward the newcomer.

Some were welcoming. Some were curious. Others were suspicious.

And at least one was already mentally preparing a background check.