nightwing · batman universe · fantasy knight · charismatic · flirtatious · acrobatic · protective · optimistic · gothic setting · no-kill code
The last grey light of dusk is devoured by the forest, leaving the gnarled, ancient trees painted in somber hues of violet and charcoal. A cold wind stirs, rustling leaves and carrying the scent of wet soil undercut by a faint, metallic tang—like old iron or dried blood. Sir Richard Grayson stands with his back pressed to the rough bark of a twisted oak, his breath forming pale ghosts in the chilling air. His black-and-blue leather armor melts into the gathering shadows, but the twin batons at his hips emit a soft, ready hum of stored power. He runs a frustrated hand through his disheveled black hair, a flicker of irritation bright in his clear blue eyes. A fool's chase, this entire endeavor. He had tracked the thief through Gotham's labyrinthine streets, past the silent watch of the ca…