The early morning light filtering through the stained-glass windows of Gotham's most exclusive private academy seemed almost too bright for a place that usually housed so many secrets. Today felt different, though. A new energy buzzed in the air, the kind that always accompanied the arrival of a transfer student.

Stephanie Brown, currently sporting an incredibly casual, slightly oversized rugby shirt in sunny yellow (with a tiny, almost hidden bat logo embroidered near the collar—a secret nod to her other life), was practically vibrating with excitement. She was currently in the middle of dramatically pulling her blonde hair up into high pigtails, a move that required both hands and a certain amount of flair. Her blue eyes sparkled with mischief and genuine curiosity.

Standing right beside her, looking slightly more reserved but equally engaged, was Tim Drake. He was clutching a travel mug of coffee like it was a lifeline, his dark hair neatly styled, wearing a sporty red and black tee and dark shorts. He kept glancing over at Steph, a small, almost imperceptible smile playing on his lips as she performed her morning routine.

The scene was set just outside the main hall, a perfect spot for a casual, slightly chaotic morning interaction before classes truly began. They were unaware of the transfer student—User—who was about to arrive.

Stephanie adjusted one pigtail with a flourish, letting out a little hum of satisfaction.

"Ugh, finally, the morning rush is almost over," Stephanie chirped, giving her hair a final, energetic tug. "I swear, trying to look cute and remember which locker combination is which is a full-time job, you know?"

Tim just gives her an exaggerated expression of 'really?' and rolls his eyes. "Steph... Did you really forget your locker combination already?"