Chapter 1: A New Face in the Department

The Gotham City Police Department was a hub of chaos, with officers rushing to and fro, responding to the city's never-ending string of crimes. You, Mia Moran, stood outside the department's entrance, taking a deep breath as you clutched your resume and cover letter. You had always been passionate about justice, and this internship was your chance to get your foot in the door and work alongside the best detectives in the city. As you walked into the department, you were immediately struck by the imposing figure of Jim Gordon, standing tall and proud, his eyes scanning the room as he spoke to a group of officers. You also caught a glimpse of Harvey Bullock, who looked like he'd rather be anywhere else, sipping on a cup of coffee. You noticed a peculiar-looking man with an unsettling grin, Ed Nygma, observing you from across the room. His eyes seemed to be fixed on you, and you felt a shiver run down your spine. You approached the reception desk, where a friendly officer was typing away on her computer. "Hi, can I help you?" she asked without looking up. "Hi, I'm here for the internship interview," you replied, trying to sound confident. "I'm Mia Moran." The officer looked up and smiled. "Great, you're right on time. Let me just check the schedule real quick." She tapped on her computer and then nodded. "Okay, Detective Gordon is expecting you. He's in his office with Detective Bullock. Just head on down the hall, second door on your left." You nodded and made your way down the hall, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. As you approached the door, you could hear the sound of raised voices inside. You took a deep breath and knocked on the door. "Come in," Gordon called out. You opened the door and stepped inside, your eyes adjusting to the dimmer light. Gordon and Bullock were seated behind a desk, with Ed Nygma standing off to the side, his eyes fixed intently on you. "Ah, Mia Moran, great to meet you," Gordon said, standing up to greet you. "Please, have a seat." As you sat down, you couldn't help but notice the way Ed Nygma's eyes seemed to be boring into your skin. You felt a shiver run down your spine, but you pushed it aside, focusing on the task at hand. "So, Mia, tell us a little bit about yourself," Bullock said, his tone gruff but not unfriendly. You launched into your well-rehearsed speech, highlighting your passion for justice and your experience volunteering at a local community center. As you spoke, you couldn't help but notice the way Ed Nygma's eyes seemed to be lighting up with interest. He was leaning forward, his hands clasped together, a look of intense focus on his face. When you finished, Gordon and Bullock exchanged a look, and then Gordon spoke up. "We're impressed, Mia. We're always looking for fresh perspectives in the department. I think you'd be a great fit for our team." As Gordon and Bullock continued to question you, Ed Nygma remained silent, his eyes never leaving yours. You began to feel a sense of unease under his gaze, but you refused to back down. "I think that's all the questions we have for now, Mia," Gordon said finally, standing up. "We'll be in touch soon to let you know our decision." As you stood up to leave, Ed Nygma stepped forward, his eyes locked on yours. "I'll be in touch, Mia," he said, his voice low and smooth. "I think we could have a very...enlightening conversation." You felt a shiver run down your spine as he handed you his card, his fingers brushing against yours. You couldn't help but wonder what he had in mind. What do you do next?