DC: The Shadow of Darkness

Here's your improved version:

"I didn't endure hell, face death, and embrace rebirth just to bow to anyone. If the world wants to break me, it better bring something stronger than pain."

A few hours later, Lucian wrapped up his time at the Gotham Library, his mind still buzzing with the knowledge he had consumed. Deciding he needed a break, he took a walk through the city. As always, Alfred remained close, his watchful eyes ensuring Lucian wouldn't get lost in the labyrinth of Gotham's crowded streets.

The city was as lively as ever. Towering buildings cast long shadows over the bustling shops, and the air was alive with the sounds of honking cars and chatter. Lucian's nose was buried in a book on advanced physics, his sharp mind devouring the content even as he walked.

A loud grumble from his stomach interrupted his focus.

"Perhaps it's time we returned to the Manor for lunch, Master Lucian?" Alfred suggested, his tone calm yet persuasive as he glanced at the boy.

Lucian stretched, closing his book with a yawn. "Yeah, sure. I could use a break."

They turned and headed back to Alfred's car, parked a few blocks away. As they navigated through the throng of people, a sudden jolt broke Lucian's train of thought. Someone had bumped into him, and in the same instant, he felt a hand slip into his pocket.

Reacting instinctively, Lucian seized the hand before it could escape, spinning around to face his would-be pickpocket. Standing before him was a girl roughly his age. Her sharp green eyes were framed by messy hair, and her worn leather jacket, patched hoodie, and torn jeans gave her the look of someone who lived on the edge of society. In her free hand, she clutched a small pouch, likely containing the spoils of her petty thefts.

Her eyes widened in shock as Lucian tightened his grip. "Let go!" she hissed, trying to pull away.

"Not until you tell me what you were trying to steal," Lucian said, his voice calm but firm.

Alfred stepped forward, his presence commanding as he addressed her. "Young lady," he said in a crisp tone, "I suggest you explain yourself before we involve the authorities."

The girl glared at Alfred, defiance burning in her eyes. "Authorities?" she scoffed. "Like I'd stick around long enough for that."

Lucian arched a brow, intrigued by her confidence. "You're sticking around now," he said coolly, not loosening his grip. "What's your name?"

She growled in frustration before attempting to free herself with a swift kick to Lucian's face. The blow was surprisingly strong—enough to stagger most people—but Lucian didn't even flinch. His grip remained solid, and a faint smirk played on his lips.

"Nice try," he said dryly.

Before the girl could respond, a voice called out from the crowd, cutting through the chaos.

"Selena! Where are you?"

The girl froze, her expression briefly softening before hardening again. She tugged at her trapped hand, but Lucian still held firm.

"Friend of yours?" Lucian asked, tilting his head toward the source of the voice.

The girl—Selena, apparently—glared at him but didn't answer.

Moments later, a petite girl with shoulder-length red hair emerged from the crowd. Her freckled face was flushed with worry as her gaze darted around before landing on them. She hurried over, stopping short when she saw Selena restrained.

"Let her go!" the red-haired girl demanded, stepping between them. Despite her small stature, her voice was firm, her protective stance unwavering.

Lucian raised an eyebrow, loosening his grip slightly. "And you are?"

"Her sister," the red-haired girl said without hesitation. "Now let her go!"

Lucian glanced at Alfred, who gave a subtle nod. With a sigh, Lucian released Selena's hand and stepped back, crossing his arms.

Selena rubbed her wrist, shooting Lucian a venomous glare. "You should've just let me go," she muttered.

"You shouldn't have tried to pickpocket me," Lucian countered smoothly, his tone laced with amusement.

The red-haired girl placed a calming hand on Selena's shoulder and gave Lucian an apologetic look. "I'm sorry for whatever she did. She's... a little rough around the edges, but we're not bad people."

"Could've fooled me," Lucian replied, though his tone lacked malice.

Alfred stepped in, ever the diplomat. "Perhaps we should leave it at that, Master Lucian. No harm done."

Lucian nodded, running a hand through his hair. "Fine. Just don't try it again," he said, giving Selena a pointed look.

Selena crossed her arms, muttering under her breath, but the red-haired girl pulled her away, offering a quiet "Thank you" as they disappeared into the crowd.

As they walked back to the car, Alfred broke the silence. "Quite the eventful day, wouldn't you say, sir?"

Lucian smirked, adjusting the strap of his bag. "Gotham never disappoints."

But as they made their way home, Lucian's thoughts kept circling back to the two girls. Something about them felt familiar, nagging at the back of his mind. It wasn't until he was halfway through ordering training equipment back at the Manor that realization hit him like a freight train.

"Holy shit," he muttered, eyes wide with disbelief.

Selena. Pamela. Their faces, their demeanor—it all made sense now. A grin spread across his face as the excitement bubbled up.

"I'm definitely gonna love it here," Lucian said to himself, already anticipating what Gotham had in store.

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A/n: I know t's been a While since I last uploaded, but here you are, I'll drop another one later on today, and two more on Saturday, I hope you like it.