A dark knight in Gotham, the city buzzes with noise and terror. A black van drives up to bank and stops. Three men dressed in black charge the building. One pulls out a small device from his pocket and uses it to deactivate the alarm. The two other men run in to a safe in the back. One of the men takes out a drill and proceeds to try and open the safe. The other goes to the counter and looks around for something. “Where is it? Where is it,” asks the robber ruffling through drawers. “Keep it down we don’t want anyone breaken up the party,” says the man that deactivated the door. He finds a key and heads for the safety deposit boxes. “213, 213, 213…here we go,” say the man putting the key into box 213. He opens it and finds a small envelope. “I came here for a god damn envelope,” says the man. He walks out of the room and heads towards the safe but finds no one. “Hey, where’d everybody go,” says the robber. Suddenly something drops on him and throws him into the vault with the other robbers. The vault closes and as it does we see the savior to be Batman.
He walks to the door and police quickly arrive. Batman shoots up with his grapple as Gordon and another officer step out of their car. “That was him comish we should have gotten him,” says the officer. “Bullock we can’t be sure that was him, what if it wasn’t? You would have killed an innocent man,” says Gordon waking to the front door of the bank. They walk to the vault and open it to find two robbers tied together and a third one knocked out.
“Who do you think put’em here,” asks Bullock.
Gordon looks down and sees a batarang and bends down pretending to tie his shoe. “I don’t know Bullock. Maybe another masked vigilante,” says Gordon getting up.
“Whoever it is we gotta keep it quiet. Don’t want reporters thinkin we got masked creeps on our pay roll.”
“Yeah,” says Gordon twiddling the batarang in his pocket, “wouldn’t want that.”
Back at the newly reconstructed Wayne Manor Batman arrives on his Batpod. He drives past the manor and into a forest. As he drives he passes through a rock that leads him to the Batcave. He gets off his bike and walks it into a spot next to something covered in a tarp. He walks to a large computer and clicks buttons that make different traffic cams of Gotham City to pop-up. “How’d it go Master Wayne,” asks Alfred walking up behind him.
“Perps caught and accounted for,” says Bruce. He clicks one of the screens that gets large in the middle of the screen and shows Gordon’s car driving towards the police station, “Gordon’s taking them to the station as we speak.”
“So is the bat going to sleep for the night?”
Batman gets up and walks towards the batpod. “You know you don’t want to hear the answer to that question Alfred.”
“Master Bruce must I remind you that you have a meeting with the board and city council tomorrow,” says Alfred, “you can’t be late. You’re up for reappointment.”
“You don’t have to remind me Alfred. I know what my job is,” says Batman getting on the batpood and driving out.
“Alright guys. You know the job. We got three more shipments coming on this weekend. I want my best guys on the job,” says a man with gray hair and a lean figure walking around a table. He throws two stacks of money on the table. One of the men picks up both stacks and begins putting bills to the light and brushing a liquid on them. “They’re the same. The real deal,” says man.
“No, they’re actually not. The one on the left is Sterling Silvermsith brand. The other Uncle Sam,” says the leader.
“How did you make these so…real, Silversmith,” asks another man at the table.
“That’s my secret. The thing is, we got more coming in this weekend and I need my sharpest men on the job,” says Silversmith. Suddenly a batarang breaks through the window and sticks into the table. The men look out the window when one of the men is taken out by a swinging kick from Batman. The men take out their pistols and begin shooting at Batman who doges and hides in the shadows. The men shoot into the corner but find that no one is there. The table suddenly flies up and at the crowd of gunmen who fall back behind it. Silversmith grabs a case of the fake bills and runs out the door. Batman disarms the remaining men and runs out towards Silversmith.
Silversmith gets into his car and quickly speeds away. He winds a corner and finds Batman in front of him. He strikes down the gas pedal and drives furiously towards Batman. Batman jumps to evade it and the car slides out into the street. Silversmith thinks he’s in the clear and smacks the roof in happiness. Then a bang is heard and Silversmith’s face turns blank. He looks down and finds a bleeding hole in his chest. He tries to control the car but ultimately drives off the road and into a group of walking bystanders.
Batman walks out of the parking garage and everyone turns to see him standing in the dark garage. “Looks its Batman, he killed this man,” yells a bystander.
“We don’t need you Batman,” yells another. Batman dives back into the garage and disappears into darkness.
A man listens to classical music as he squirts water on plants in a green room. A man dressed in a red body suit with silver holsters and two guns wrapped around his fist walks into the mansion. He wears a silver mask with a red circular target over one eye, two men charge him with pistols out. The classical music blares as the masked man grabs one of the men and whips him into a plant. Then he grabs the other and throws him onto the other man. He cocks one of his wrist pistols and a silenced blast is heard as the bullet goes through both men.
Back in the green room the man continues watering his plants until the door swings open and the masked man walks in. “Floyd,” says the man continuing to water the plants.
“You call me Deadshot , Jim ,” says Deadshot.
“I trust that Silversmith has been disposed of,” says Jim putting down the pot of water and wiping the water from his hands.
“Of course. .50 caliber to an artery doesn’t exactly leave you awake for a second shot.”
Jim laughs and claps his hands. “I heard you were the best but this is incredible. How do you hit a man in such a small spot from such a far off location,” asks Jim walking to a sink.
“Easy,” says Deadshot, “I never miss. Missing is for amateurs, missing is for people who fear…which I don’t.” Jim washes his hands as a click of a pistol is heard. “But the close range shots are also fun.” Jim freezes with his hands in the sink. “I should have seen this coming,” says Jim.
“Yes…you should have,” says Deadshot. A pop from his wrist gun followed by a falling body are heard. Then Deadshot storms out and we see a short shot of Jim with a bullet in his head.
The next morning Alfred walks through the mansion looking for Bruce. He lets out a sigh and walks to the elevator. He presses a hidden button in the corner that makes the back of the elevator open up to a staircase.
Alfred walks down and finds Bruce still sitting in at his computer, dressed from the neck down in the bat suit. “Master Wayne. A bit of breakfast,” says Alfred putting down a tray of food, but Bruce stays fixated on the screen.
“Sterling Silversmith was shot last night Alfred. I looked into the GCPD database and found that the bullet was from an M21 Sniper Rifle. Those rifles can shoot up to 822 meters. Which means the bullet had to have come from one of these six buildings,” says Bruce.
“Master Wayne the meeting with the council is in 90 minutes. You have to start getting ready.”
“He had to have had a reason. He must have known that Silversmith would be there. Must of known about the money…about the plan,” says Bruce.
“Master Bruce…”
“From the traffic cams I can’t see anything at these three buildings. That leaves three, unless he’s better than I think,” says Bruce.
“Master Bruce…”
“I’ll hit these three today and see.”
“BRUCE,” yells Alfred slamming his fist on the table. Bruce turns and looks at Alfred. “I’m sorry Master Wayne, but you have to get ready. If not for yourself then for your parents. Your father was a respected member of the board and that is one thing I would never let you fall from. Gotham City has a police force to support it. It doesn’t always need Batman,” says Alfred. Bruce gets up and puts his hand on Alfred’s shoulder.
“You’re right Alfred. I’m losing sight of things.
Now we switch to the conference room at Wayne Enterprises. Lucius is talking to Roman Sionis a big business owner about a possible business merger. “Please Mr. Fox I know how things are right now but if we come together things might start to pick up,” says Roman smiling.
“Roman I know you have all good intentions but after what’s happened in Gotham, and your companies track record I don’t know if it would be the best for Wayne Enterprises,” Fox says as he gets a call from a worker.
“Sorry but it’s business. We have to hold this meeting for now, but I will get back to you Mr.Sionis. “Well thank you for meeting with me, hope to talk again soon,” as Roman says this his smile turns to a face of anger and annoyance.
In the MCU Gordon is trying to figure out more about the murders and robbery. An older man enters and waves of officers stare and crowd her.
“Everyone back to their desks. Get to work!” yells Gordon in anger.
“Who’s this,” asks Bullock taking a sip from his coffee.
“Hamilton Hill, mayor elect.”
“Can we trust’em?”
“This is Gotham Harvey. I can’t even trust you,” says Gordon before approaching Hill. “Good morning Mr. Hill,” says Gordon.
“Good morning Commissioner,” says Hill. They walk into Gordon’s office and Hill sits across from Gordon, and Bullock stands behind Gordon.
“So whats dis meetin about,” asks Bullock.
“Well I have come to ask about your progress on the Batman case,” says Hill.
“It’s a work in progress,” says Gordon, “criminals like these are smart. They know how to stay at least ten steps ahead of us. Mayor Garcia brought in Harvey Bullock to help us catch him.”
“So what are you Mr. Bullock,” asks Hill, “a professional criminal catcher.” Hill chuckles but neither Bullock nor Gordon reciprocate.
“Yeah in other words a cop,” says Bullock.
“We have no recent information on the Batman, but as soon as we do we’ll contact you,” says Gordon.
Hill stands up and shakes their hands. “Please do,” says Hill before exiting.
“You’re right Gordon we can’t trust him,” says Bullock.
“How do you know,” asks Gordon staring at Hill through the window of his office.
“Cause he’s more wacked than the Joker.”
“Did you hear about Jim Jansen,” asks Gordon.
“What about him,” replies Bullock having no idea?
“He was shot in the head. His body was found in front of his house.”
“So Silversmith and Jansen are dead, looks like we ain’t doin too bad.”
“We aren’t looking to kill these people Harvey. We need to catch them so they can’t kill again.”
“If I made the rules. I would let people like them be killed. Make cops jobs much easier,” says Bullock. Gordon doesn’t respond but stares out the window of his office.
Bruce arrives at the council meeting. Seven men are seated around a long table and Batman sits next to two other business men.
“Alright. Now that everyone’s here we can get started,” says Mayor Garcia. They begin talking about company numbers and performance statistics. Bruce nods along and adds a few quirky remarks to seem interested yet not.
“Now let’s move along to addition of new council members,” says Garcia.
“The most active one being Mr. Rupert Thorne.” They all look around at a rather large man seated at the corner of the table that waves and smiles.
“Thank you Mr. Garcia. As you may know, I’ve been campaigning for Hamilton Hill to be the new mayor. Not that I don’t deeply appreciate what Mayor Garcia has done for us, but I think its time for someone new,” says Thorne. Bruce begins listening intently now. “My family has been a high standing family in Gotham City. My father owned a law practice and my mother was a Senator. I have funds that I feel must be put into Gotham City. So if you would all please oblige me in thinking about admitting me to the Gotham City Council.” He smiles and sits down as the rest of the men in the room remain quiet.
“What have you done that shows that you could help Gotham City,” asks Bruce.
“Well I’ve been trying to get Mr. Hamilton elected to mayor. I’m the leader of his campaign.”
“Well that’s shows that Hamilton should be admitted to the board, but not you,” says Bruce, “I helped to fund Mayor Garcia’s election campaign, that’s not the reason I’m on the board.”
“Then why are you Mr. Wayne? Does buying hotels and walking around with super models make you the right person for the board? If I’m correct it is also time to vote on whether you should stay on the board Mr. Wayne,” says Thorne.
“He’s right Bruce,” says Garcia, “it is your year.”
“Then we should vote on it,” says Bruce.
“Let’s calm down everyone. We are here to help Gotham not crucify each other,” says another man. “That’s true Mr. Boyle,” says Thorne.
“What do you think,” asks Thorne.
“The reason we lost Roman Sionis was because the council turned against him. We shouldn’t do the same with Bruce,” says Boyle.
“Everyone who wishes to elect Mr. Thorne to the board say I.” Five people say I and Bruce, Garcia, and Boyle say nay.
“The Aye’s have it. Welcome aboard Mr. Thorne,” says Garcia extending his hand.
“Thank you all. I hope I can contribute the way all of you have,” says Thorne.
“Mr. Wayne your count will be next meeting,” says Garcia. Everyone gets up and leaves as Bruce watches Thorne shake hands and speak to everyone.
Bruce stands looking out the window of the council’s office. Mayor Garcia walks up next to him and pats him on the back. “You got some real hate for Thorne,” chuckles Garcia.
“I just think people should have a reason to be admitted to the board. Not just get in cause they have money,” says Bruce.
“You’re absolutely right Mr. Wayne, but the reason you’re on the board is because your father was on the board, then Earle after him and Lucius who gave it to you. You didn’t exactly earn your keep either,” says Garcia.
“Your right,” says Bruce turning and walking away, “I guess we’ll know what people think next meeting.” Garcia looks out the window and slightly punches the window letting out a sigh of sadness.
In a club in Gotham called the Iceberg Lounge people drink and play pool while basking in their murderous accomplishments. In the back of the bar two men are seated together. They sit under a lamp seated on wooden chairs. One of them is a fat man with a long nose. The other is older with white hair. “How’s it going on your end,” asks the younger man.
“Everything’s moving into place Penguin. Sionis is already drowning in the waters of bad business, and the rest is sure to come,” says the older man, “how’s crime?”
“Moxon, things are slow. No one wants to be in organized crime after what happened with the Joker. Plus with the Maroni and Falcone crime families dead, who wants to end up like them? Soon crime will be a thing of the past,” says Penguin.
“Well that isn’t good. You know the agreement. I take care of big business while you hide in the shadows of organized crime,” says Moxon.
“Yeah well that shadow is only getting smaller,” says Penguin. “Then I guess you got to turn off some lights,” says Moxon, “we’ll keep in touch. And I hope next time you give me something a little better than some dead leads.” Thorne gets up and walks towards the back of the bar.
“They say you’re doin something big,” says penguin picking up a cigarette and placing it in his mouth, “something that’s gonna bring Gotham to its knees. That true,” asks Penguin? Moxon smiles and slams the door as he walks out.
Roman Sionis arrives at his apartment. He puts down his bag as his wife approaches him. “Roman, how did it go,” asks his wife.
“Um…it went…ok,” says Roman.
“I’ve heard that before,” says an older man getting up from the couch.
“Father,” says Roman.
“Roman. I see you had another failed attempt at saving my company,” says Roman’s father.
“It wasn’t failed father. He said he would get back to me.” “Oh Roman don’t be so naïve. You were never good enough to take over my company. You are a failed attempt Roman,” says his father serving himself a drink.
“I’m sorry father. I’ll fix things. I promise,” says Roman.
“I’ve had enough of your empty promises Roman,” says his father, “either recuperate the business or get ready to lose everything.” He finishes his drink and heads for the door. “Thank you for the hospitality Circe,” says his father as he walks out. Circe smiles and walks over to Roman and rubs his shoulder.
“It’s ok Roman you’ll figure it out,” says Circe. Roman slaps off her hand and walks to his room slamming the door.
That night is a big benefit for Hamilton Hill. Lobbyists and press swim around the floor as the rich speak of their mighty accomplishments. Bruce walks around listening to one tired rich boy story after the next. He tries his hardest not to want to throw a batarang at one. “Bruce Wayne nice to see you,” says Penguin.
“Mr. Oswald Cobblepot. Great to see you as well,” says Bruce with a fake smile.
“Please Bruce call me Penguin everyone else does,” laughs Penguin.
“I hope you’re donating tonight.”
“Donating,” scuffs Penguin, “what has the government ever done for me.” Penguin laughs and Bruce keeps the fake smile plastered on his face as he walks away. Bruce eyes a woman at the bar and walks towards her. He rests his arm against the bar and turns his body towards her.
“Hello Ms,” says Bruce with his rich boy smile.
“Mr. Wayne,” says the woman turning around. This woman is incredibly beautiful with a vindictive look in her eye.
“How you doin tonight Ms…”
“Kyle. Selina Kyle,” says the woman.
“Selina. That’s a beautiful name. You a big Hamilton Hill supporter?”
“I support whoever’s handing out the checks,” says Selina taking a sip from her drink.
“What industry you in?”
“Service.”
“That’s…”
“Mr. Wayne,” says Rupert Thorne coming up behind him.
“Aw Rupert. What a pleasant surprise.”
“May I have a word with you,” asks Throne. Bruce nods and they walk away.
“What’s going on Rupert,” asks Bruce.
“This event was planned by Hamilton Hill and his people. The people that generously donated their time and money to help Hill’s campaign. People that truly believe in Hill,” says Thorne.
“Yes I know how a campaign works.”
”Well when I was looking at Hill’s donation list, you know whose name I saw?”
“Oh I can bet.”
“Yours, a donation of $32, 000,” says Thorne.
“Actually it’s a gift. Donations can only be up to $10, 000,” says Bruce.
“Why would you help Hill. You were obviously a supporter of Garcia. You contributed to his campaign as well,” says Thorne.
“I just like to see both sides of the coin before it’s flipped,” says Bruce.
Thorne starts to grow angry but Bruce keeps his cool. “Very well then,” says Thorne, “enjoy the party.” Throne walks away and Bruce pats him on the back as he leaves. Bruce walks back over to Selina who smiles and turns away as she sees him coming.
“What was that about,” asks Selina.
“Just business,” says Bruce.
Back at the hall everyone is talking and having a good time. Suddenly men repel in through the windows and begin shooting at the crowd. Everyone ducks and run but many get taken out. Bruce grabs Selina and throws her over the bar for cover. The cops try to shoot down the men but they are also dismantled. Once all the cops are put down the men begin circling the room. Bruce stands up and hurls a tray at the head of one and causes him to fall down. Bruce jumps over the bar and runs to the exit. The men shoot at him as he runs out but Bruce is able to escape. The men continue circling the room until they find Hamilton Hill. One of the larger gun men pick him up by his shirt and head buts him then throws him into a table of bottles. As the table flips over Penguin is found hiding beneath it. He smiles a frightened smile as the gunman takes out a pistol and puts it to Penguins head. Penguin closes his eyes in fear when out of nowhere Batman crashes through the ceiling and land on the gunman. He disarms him and throws him into another gunman. He takes out two batarangs and throws them at another. A finale gunman shoots extensively and Batman dives behind a table. The gunman rushes over to the table and blind fires over it. He looks over the table to see that Batman has disappeared. Then a hand reaches from under the table and drags the man to the floor and Batman punches him in the stomach. He gets up and sees Penguin hiding behind a flipped table, Hill laying unconscious on the ground, and Selina peaking from over the bar. In a moment the police enter and find Batman among the carnage. “GET HIM HE KILLED ALL THOSE PEOPLE,” yells Bullock. Batman quickly repels up and escapes danger.
“What just happened,” asks Gordon walking into the crime scene.
“54 dead, many more wounded,” says Bullock walking up to him.
“Holy…” says Gordon holding his hand over his mouth.
“You ask me I say Batman had something to do with this,” says Bullock.
“Yeah, what about these gunmen?” .
“They could have been with him. No way to know now,” says Bullcok walking to the body of one of the gunmen.
“Why’s that?”
“They’re all dead. Each one of’em were foaming from the mouth when we walked in,” says Bullock. “Batman probably ordered these men to come in and shoot up the crowd. In case they got caught Batman wanted to make sure they wouldn’t talk. So he iced’em,” says Bullock, “they’re wearing clothes just like Batman.”
“What did you expect, gunmen to come in here wearing armani suits and bowler caps. I brought you to this precinct to find the Batman, not spread rumors about’em,” says Gordon.
“Look these guys have the symbol of the Batman across their hearts,” say Bullock showing the symbol to Gordon. Gordon looks at it and puts his hand over his mouth thinking. “You still think it’s a rumor comish,” asks Bullock sarcastically.
Hamilton Hill is giving an interview from outside the hospital. He promises everyone that a little broken nose won’t stop him from running. People quickly ask him for questions and Hill looks to see Rupert Thorne signaling to him from his car. He tells them that that’s all the questions he can take and then walks away. He steps into the car and Thorne looks to him.
“So how was the party,” asks Thorne?
“As good as it could go. People died Thorne,” says Hill.
“Casualties are common in battle,” say Thorne, “We leave them out to dry and then honor them later.”
“I can’t do this Thorne. Next time more could die, and all this could be for nothing.”
Thorne takes out a pistol and puts it to his chin. “You will do this, and you won’t ever question it again,” says Thorne, “you’re just a pawn and I’m the king. You do what I say, you look good to the camera, but behind the rest of the pawns stands me…the king.”
“I’m sorry Thorne. You’re right, I won’t question you again I promise.”
“You better not. You have no reason to. Everything’s falling into place, you just have to keep looking pretty in front of the cameras and I’ll take care of the rest. If everything’s goin as it should, there should already be heat in Gotham.”
Bruce sits at the computer in his cave and pulls up pictures of over one hundred people. He begins to type and some of the pictures begin to disappear until only Thorne, Penguin, Hill, Selina and two other men are shown. Alfred walks down and stands behind Bruce. “I take it these aren’t the invites to the next gala,” says Alfred.
“I’ve been doing some research on Hamilton Hill. His platform, his past, his friends. They are some of the more interesting one,” says Bruce.
“May I ask Master Wayne? Why would you put so much money to Hill’s campaign when you have no interest in the man and you’ve already put money to Garcia’s campaign,” asks Alfred.
“I want to make sure Hill is working for the right people. The mayor of Gotham needs to be for Gotham, not for the underground,” says Bruce, “if I look interested in Hill, then it’ll be easier to learn about him.”
“I assume that you’ve hear people are connecting you to the gunmen last night,” says Alfred.
“I’m an outlaw Alfred. I’ll be Gotham’s scapegoat until this war ends. I have no problem with that.” “Listen to yourself Master Bruce. You used to speak of the Batman as a separate person. Now you speak as one,” says Alfred.
“We are one. We’ll always be one.” Bruce walks away and Alfred watches him.
“I hope you’re mistaken,” says Alfred shaking his head.
Gordon and Bullock stand in a morgue. Bullock looks uneasy and Gordon looks calm. A doctor walks in and pulls out a body. The body is completely hairless and looks like a manikin.
“This one is a gunman from the Hamilton Hill party,” says the doctor. Bullock lets out a cough of disgust and walks to the back of the room. “No records. All ways to identify’em have come out empty. The man died from taking a poison capsule. There is no sign of a struggle so we can assume he did it to himself. There are no signs of any other toxins in his body so we know that a perfectly sound man with full grasp of consciousness decided kill everyone and then take his own life.”
“Like a terrorist,” says Gordon.
“So we got a terrorist group and a marksman. O happy day,” says Bullock.
“We keep the Batmen secret. We don’t want the media to get wind of this and the people to fall into a frenzy,” says Gordon.
Bruce Wayne stands looking out the window of a high building. From behind him walks Roman Sionis. They exchange greetings and then Bruce assures him that speaking with every potential merger is very important to him. Sionis talks about Janus Cosmetics new cosmetics line and tells Bruce that it would make a great investment. Bruce brings up the fact that the last cosmetics product developed by his industry resulted in the death of many people. Sionis assures him that that is untrue but Bruce knows it is. Sionis tells him that a new cosmetic is ready for sales and that he himself will be testing it to assure everyone that it is fully functioning. Bruce nods in agreement and exits.
Bruce steps out of the building and walks to his car. As he does he sees Selina Kyle walking down the street dressed in clothes that cover most of her body she looks back and forth and then steps into a small shop without a name. Bruce slowly follows her in and finds her fighting with three other men in a karate studio. She quickly subdues them as Bruce approaches her. As he does she swings a kick at him that he grabs and then sends her to the floor. She kicks out his feet and he propels himself back up and shoots two punches at her face which she dodges. Then she grabs his fist and throws him into a stand of bamboo poles that collapse on him. She puts her foot to his neck and smiles at him. “Looks like the rich boy is more than just a check book,” says the voice of Oswald Cobblepot walking in.
“Oswald,” says Bruce getting to his feet.
“Selina what did I tell you about coming here. It’s bad for business,” says Oswald angry.
“I’m sorry Mr. Cobblepot.”
“Now get to the car. I’m sorry about this Brucey. She can be a little feisty sometimes,” says Oswald rubbing her chin with a smile. He walks out and Selina begins to grab her things.
“I’m sorry Bruce. You shouldn’t have come here,” says Selina picking up her things.
“Why are you working for Penguin? What did he mean about it being bad for business,” asks Bruce as he follows Selina out. “Selina…” She puts her hand on the door knob and then turns to Bruce.
“I’m sorry Bruce. We shouldn’t have met. What I do is…complicated. You don’t want to get mixed up in my life. Just forget about me. It’s for the best,” says Selina. Bruce remains silent and she walks out slamming the door behind her.
Lew Moxon sits in an office space signing different sheets of paper and checks. The door slams open and a man dressed in a black trench coat and jeans walks in. As he walks in we notice that he’s soaking wet. He sits in front of Moxon who doesn’t acknowledge the man. The man slams his fist on the table and Moxon lets out a sigh before capping his pen and crossing his hands over his chest. “Hello Waylon Jones,” says Moxon, “I trust that your trip over here was met without complication.” “No complication,” scoffs Waylon, “nothing besides a firefight. I hardly got out of that place alive. Good thing I’m a good swimmer.”
“Yes well. I’m hope that the trauma doesn’t keep you from fulfilling your duty,” says Moxon.
“Course not boss. It’s how I live.”
“Your first strike is tonight. Someone else is already trying to get ahead of us and I need to be the one on top.”
“I’m excited,” smiles Croc. As he smiles we see that his teeth have been sharpened like crocodile teeth.
Bruce Wayne sits in the Batcave dressed in the batsuit without the cowl. He types away at his computer and a picture of Janus Coesmetic’s Building, the Council conference building, and two other buildings are shown on the screen. “What’s this,” asks Lucius working on the new batmobile. “The gunman that killed Sterling Silversmith was shot from one of these buildings. It can’t be the council building cause the angle is close to impossible, and these two buildings are too far for the gun that was used. The only one that would work is…”
“Janus Cosmetics,” finishes Lucius.
“You think Sionis is the killer,” asks Lucius.
“Silversmith Antiques was a big company in Gotham,” says Bruce.
“You think this was a business killing,” asks Lucius?
“Not exactly,” says Bruce, “the batmen at the harbor were still targeting Silversmith even though they knew he was dead. Why would Sionis make his men do that?”
“That’s a good question.”
“And one that needs an answer.”
The screen begins to flash red and Bruce presses a button on the computer.
“Crime,” asks Lucius?
“No. Garcia and Hill are having their last debate tonight. If Hill was a target at the last attack I doubt they would miss this,” says Bruce.
Behind the curtains at the debate center Hill is looking over note cards and Garcia is speaking with his advisors. They are told that they have five minutes before the debate and Garcia’s advisors leave. “You ready for this Garcia,” asks Hill?
“We’ve done it before. I lost the nervous tick by the second debate,” says Garcia, “And note cards seem a little high school class president.”
Hill smiles and puts the cards in his suit jacket. “Well I think it’s good to be ready for whatever comes,” says Hill peaking behind the curtain.
Waylon Jones is seen standing behind the building. He fixes his jacket and puts on brass knuckles and puts two knives into the back of his belt. He smiles and jumps up to a fire escape and begins climbing up.
The debate starts and the focus is mainly on crime. Garcia calls for more police officers while Hill declares everything to be good as it is. Bruce sits among other important business men. He looks around and sees Selina Kyle seated next to Penguin and Rupert Thorne sitting front row. Suddenly an explosion rips through the door sending everyone in different directions. Bruce quickly stands up and runs behind the stage. He opens a window and grabs a silver case hanging and opens it to reveal his bat suit.
People quickly run down the halls in fear and some are seen being thrown in different directions as Waylon walks down the hall. Batman runs down the hall and sees eye to eye with Waylon. Batman charges him and rams him into the wall. Waylon brings back his fist and slams it into Batman. He punches him twice in the face and Batman falls. Then Batman jumps up knocking Waylon in the chin. Batman kicks at Waylon who grabs his foot and throws him into a wall. As people run around them Waylon grabs a woman and throws her onto Batman who catches her and moves her as Waylon swings at them and hits Batman. As he stumbles back Batman jumps in the air and smashes down on the Waylon with his fist, but Waylon grabs it and twists back his arm making Batman yell in pain. As cops run towards them Waylon puts Batman in front of him and he receives three bullets to his chest. Waylon takes out a knife and stabs Batman in the side and then throws him into the group of cops. Waylon walks towards them licking his lips and showing his sharp teeth. Then suddenly he’s grabbed by the back of the head and thrown to the ground. The man who did this is shown to be Deadshot. He takes out a small rocket gun and shoots it at the fallen Waylon who moves as the rocket hits the floor causing them to fall through the floor. Batman spots this and jumps down with them. Batman falls in pain from the bullets and watches Deadshot and Waylon fight. Waylon and Deadshot fight intensely with Deadshot barely having the upper hand. Deadshot grabs Waylon and throws him out the window and he lands on a smaller building besides them. Deashot looks to a wounded Batman and then jumps towards Waylon and lands a foot on him as he touches down. Batman grapples out to them and falls down next to them. Deadshot grabs Waylon by his chin and throws him to the floor. He kicks him down and shoots him in the hand. Waylon screams in pain and Deadshot grabs him by his mouth and smacks his head against the floor leaving a mark of blood. Deadshot picks up Waylon and holds him above his head. Waylon struggles to fight back but is unable. Deadshot walks to the side of the building and looks down at the traffic. “Waylon Jones AKA Killer Croc. I expected better from you,” says Deadshot, “but no one can kill me, Deadshot.” From behind them Batman shoots his grapple at Deadshot and it pierces his leg. Deadshot looses balance and drops Waylon from the building. Batman looks at Deadshot who raises his wrist gun at Batman. Batman jumps over him as he shoots and kicks Deadshot in the head and jumps down towards Croc. As he falls he takes out another grapple and shoots it at Waylon and it rips through his shoulder. Batman holds onto the ledge in pain and holds Waylon up. Police arrive below them and begin shooting in frenzy. Deadshot looks down on both of them and jumps down grabbing Waylon and carrying him into the building. Batman is releaved from the weight and disappears over the building.
The next morning as dawn breaks Bruce awakes in the Batcave. He lifts himself still feeling the pain from the night before. He tries to get up and stumbles to the ground. From behind him Alfred helps him get up. “You might want to take it easy Master Bruce. You took three bullets and a knife to the side last night. Not many people can survive that,” says Alfred.
“Well I guess that just shows that the world needs me,” says Bruce propping himself back on the table, “any news on Croc?” Alfred walks over to the computer and pulls up different news channels that are all broadcasting the fight from last night. Video from the news channels show Batman fighting Croc. “Take your pick Master Wayne. They all talk of the Batman being bested by a shirtless man with only a knife,” says Alfred.
“He was a really tough shirtless man Alfred.”
“Of course Master Wayne.”
“Anything about the other guy?”
Alfred looks at him with a confused look. “What other guy,” asks Alfred.
“The guy dressed in red with the wrists guns. He took out Killer Croc. They should ask officers Jones, Berns, and Peters. Croc threw me on them and then Deadshot walked in,” says Bruce.
“All the news reports put those names on the list of the people that were killed,” says Alfred.
“There was another guy Alfred. He was strong and fast. He called the guy Killer Croc,” says Bruce. Bruce sighs and walks to the computer. “I guess we add that to the list of things that need to be solved.”
“I guess so Master Wayne.”
At the MCU Gordon and Bullock are looking at pictures and video from last night. Bullock looks at different pictures as Gordon watches the different people being questioned in the interrogation room. “Why do’ya think Batman was there,” asks Bullock.
“I don’t know. I hope to stop the attacker,” says Gordon.
“I don’t know comish. He arrived pretty quickly,” says Bullock.
“Batman wouldn’t go up against this many people at once,” say Gordon, “he sticks to the shadows and would never show up in public.” Bullcok pauses for a second and stops looking at the pictures. “You know Gordon. You speak highly of this Batman guy. I think sometimes you forget he’s a criminal.”
“Bullock were you in Gotham last year. I don’t think so. I was here I saw how Batman operated and what he did. I was one of the only people to ever contact him so I think I’m the one who knows how he’s going to attack,” says Gordon annoyed.
“Then why haven’t you caught him yet. If you know so much why is he still out there,” asks Bullock growing equally annoyed?
Gordon doesn’t answer and turns back to the interrogation room. “Sometimes I think you don’t even want to catch him,” says Bullock. Gordon looks into the room and thinks about Bullock’s correct statement. He doesn’t want Batman to be caught.
Waylon Jones begins to awake in a dark room. The only light comes from lightly lit blue lights on the walls. He gets up and spots Deadshot without his mask sitting at a desk polishing his wrist guns. Beside him is a pit of fire with two fire pokers. “Good to see you awake Croc,” says Deadshot, “normal tranquilizer didn’t work so I tried some elephant tranquilizer. Much more efficient.”
“Why did you bring me here,” asks Waylon? Deadshot gets up and puts down his wrist guns and takes out his two pistols from his side and puts them on the table.
“You see Croc you and me are not too different. We both know what we want, and we go for it,” says Deadshot. He walks over to a chair and throws Croc his jacket. Deadshot walks over to the barrel of fire and continues talking. “The difference is I work for myself, and you’re…well…hired help,” says Deadshot.
“Yeah, what’s your point,” asks Waylon picking up his knives and putting them in his belt. Deadhsot takes out the two fire pokers which are red hot and slashes Croc with one.
“I want to know who you’re helping,” says Deadshot. Croc whales in pain and gets up.
“No one,” says Croc. Deadshot slashes him across the chest and then on the arm. “AHHHH STOP,” cries Waylon.
“TELL ME.” He slashes him and hits him in the head with the blunt edge. Croc jumps up and slashes Deadshot with his sharp nails and then kicks out his feet. Deadshot brings up the poker and stabs Croc in the leg and then kicks him in the chest. He jumps up and jumps into the air and brings down both pokers to Croc’s back. Then he kicks Croc around and slashes him across the chest and then the face. “READY TO TALK,” barks Deadshot raising the fire poker.
“Rupert Throne,” says Croc in pain. Deadshot puts the fire pokers back into the barrel and walks to a desk and picks up his mask.
“You won’t get close to him. He has others,” says Croc. Deadshot turns and fires a dart at Croc. “Don’t underestimate me,” says Deadshot.
Rupert Thorne stands beside Hamilton Hill looking out a high window. “Last night was interesting,” says Thorne.
“You think he was there for me,” asks Hill.
“Killer Croc doesn’t seem the guy to attack a government official. Someone big has to be controlling him,” says Thorne.
“So you think he is coming for me,” asks Hill?
“I wouldn’t be surprised.”
Hill looks worried and Thorne pats him on the back and then walks to the bar and begins pouring himself a drink. “You know I’ve been wondering. Why didn’t you run,” asks Hill.
Thorne smiles and takes a sip from his drink. “First because some people in Gotham know who I truly am. The second reasons is because I’m not the government type,” says Thorne, “I leave that to people like you Hill.” Hill nods and looks out the window. “Don’t worry Hill. The election’s is tomorrow. Then this craziness will only get worse.” Hill returns to looking worried and Thorne smiles as he takes another sip from his drink.
Bruce Wayne drives down a dark part of Gotham. He drives past a street with many prostitutes and drug dealers and pulls up the windows of his car. As he passes by he notices a familiar face. Selina Kyle is dressed as a prostitute and talking to a man in a car. Bruce quickly does a screeching U-turn and rams the car in the back and drives up to Selina. “Get in the car,” demands Bruce.
“BRUCE…I’m busy,” says Selina. Bruce takes out a wad of money from the car and shows it to Selina. “This enough,” asks Bruce. She gets into the car and he quickly drives away.
“I bet you have some questions,” says Selina.
“I didn’t know
this was what Penguin meant about business.”
“It’s not a permanent thing alright. I don’t even want to do it, but things are getting hard out here. It’s hard to earn a living.”
“Whatever you need I can help you with. There is no reason for anyone to be governed by Penguin.”
“I have one.”
“What would that be?”
“Drive three blocks and I’ll show you.”
In three blocks they arrive at the recently reconstructed
Selina gets out and Bruce follows her. They walk in and Selina walks down the hall to a room labeled Robinson, Holly. Selina opens the door and finds a nurse examining a young girl’s body. “Hello Selina,” says the nurse.
“How’s she doing,” asks Selina.
“She’s good right now. It’s hard to keep her awake though. Doctors say that things are starting to get better though. You should be able to take her home in a few weeks.” Selina nods and the nurse walk out.
“Who is she,” asks Bruce, “an old friend. I’ve lived on the streets all my life. We met on the streets. We started taking care of each other like sisters. One day Holly told me of a way to get some cash. She started hooken for this guy. After a few weeks she decided she didn’t want to do it anymore and tried to run away. When she did her pimp slammed into her with his car. I heard her body slam against the pavement and I thought she was dead. The blood covered the streets like a canvas. Out of nowhere Penguin shows up and shoots down the pimp and his men. Afterwards he took Holly to the hospital and started paying for her treatment. I thought he was the nicest man in the world. Little did I know the circumstances of the agreement. He told me that he would keep paying for her treatment as long as I became his hooker until I paid back the hospital bills. But I’m not even close, and soon she’ll be awake and she’ll have to start doing it again. I don’t want to open her to that life again,” says Selina beginning to tear up. Bruce hugs her and feels her pain as she begins to cry.
“I don’t want her to come back to this life Bruce,” says Selina sobbing.
“I’ll take care of it. You don’t have to worry anymore,” says Bruce. She looks into his eyes and they engage in a passionate kiss.
Roman Sionis stands in a research lab as a scientist finishes scribbling on a clipboard.
“Are you ready yet? I have people to please,” says Roman. The scientist finishes writing and walks to a safe in the back of the room and pulls out a small silver container.
“Are you sure you want to do this Mr. Sionis,” asks the scientist uncapping the container to reveal a brown clay-like liquid.
“Of course,” smiles Sionis, “besides I have some wrinkles that need covering.” The scientist passes the container to Roman and he scoops out a bit. Then he begins rubbing it across his face. The scientist stares at him with an interested look. Sionis stops and looks at himself in the mirror. His wrinkles and moles have disappeared and he smiles.
The next day people anxiously run to the voting centers. The streets are filled with people doing last minute campaigning for the candidates. Bruce Wayne stands outside Wayne Enterprises which is being used as a voting center. Roman Sionis approaches him with a smile and Bruce is surprised to see that his wrinkles and other signs of ageing have disappeared.
“Roman,” says Bruce extending his hand. Roman accepts it with a smile.
“Do you like how the new product works,” says Roman motioning towards his face.
“Looks nice,” says Bruce, “right now I can’t really talk about business as my company is being used for voting…”
Sionis shakes waves his hand and says, “don’t worry about it Mr. Wayne. My company is also…” Roman stops and sees an older woman wave at him as she walks behind Bruce.
Bruce notices his peculiar look and says, “you alright Mr. Sionis?”
“Yeah I’m fine,” says Roman shaking his head and then smiles, “my company is also being used for voting. We’ll talk later ok.” Sionis walks away before giving Bruce a chance to respond.
Sionis gets to his car and shakes his head. He pulls down the mirror and sees the reflection of the woman from before sitting in the back of his car. He jumps and yells and turns around to find no one there. “It’s your fault Roman…All of it…we know…they know,” says an echoing voice. “Who’s that? Who’s there,” says Roman looking around his car. “We know Roman…we know.”
Hill stands next to Thorne in their campaign center. Hill watches intently at the election coverage as Thorne talks to other campaign advisors. He finishes talking and walks into his office in the back of the center. It’s dark and all that is seen is the dim light coming in from a window to the rest of the building. He sits in his chair and tries to pull himself forward but finds he’s unable to. He puts his hands on the desk and looks down to find Killer Croc unconscious. Then suddenly two guns rest on his hands and shoot through them. Throne begins to yell in pain but Deadshot grabs him by his mouth and throws him against the wall. “Don’t speak,” says Deadshot holding Thorne’s mouth closed.
Deadshot grabs Thorne and puts him in his chair and Deadshot sits in the chair in front of him.
“Who the…who the hell are you,” asks Thorne holding his hands together in pain.
“Deadshot…that’s what I’m called. I was never truly fond of the name but it grew on me. Let me tell you a story about a kid. A kid who grew up with a mother and a father. Now his father was…a good man. Good to his community, good to his friends, good to all…except his family. He brought his anger down on his wife and kid. Now his kid saw all this happen in front of him. He saw and felt the wrath of his
humanitarian father. One day the kid decides he doesn’t want to take it anymore. He decides that living like this is worse than not living at all. So he grabs his father’s gun and aims it at his father. His father looks at him scared and angry. The interesting thing about it is…he didn’t even shake. Not even a tremble, he felt totally at ease aiming this gun at his father. Cause for once he felt in power. For once he felt that he didn’t have to live in fear of anyone. So without even a second thought he puts two in his father’s chest. He looks over and sees his mother sobbing. And all he could think is why THE HELL was she sobbing. I mean this guy beat, cheated, and stole from her and she still cried for him. So the kid thinks. Why should a woman like this be left in the world? A woman who supports evil. There’s no room in this world for people like her. So he aims the gun at her and looks into her eyes and shoots her. Not even a flinch. From then on this child promised that he would live a life cleansing the FILTH from this world.” Thorne is left speechless and holding his bleeding hands.
“So tell me Thorne. Who are you? The kid or the woman,” asks Deadshot.
“I’m…,” Thorne reaches for his gun taped to the bottom of his desk but finds it to be missing. Deadshot lets out a chuckle at seeing him do this. “I’m…the woman,” says Thorne. Deadshot raises his wrist gun and it clicks the sound of a loaded chamber.
“Yes Thorne…you are a woman,” says Deadshot. Thorne closes his eyes ready to be shot. Deadshot lowers his gun and begins laughing. “Did I scare you?” Thorne lets out a sigh of relief and lets out a chuckle. “I’m not here to kill you Thorne. I’m here because I’ve had a change of heart. Jim and Silversmith were my attempt at ridding Gotham of people like you. Now I see that instead of ridding Gotham of you. I should control people like you,” says Deadshot.
“What does that mean,” asks Thorne.
“I know what you hope to do with Hill. He’s your puppet cause you don’t have the balls to operate Gotham yourself. And for that, I’m deciding to take your puppet,” says Deadshot.
“You want Hill?”
“I want Hill, Killer Croc, You, Zucco, and anyone else that holds stock in Gotham underworld.”
“I will never work for you.”
“I knew you would say that. That’s why I’m here to make a deal. I want $20 million, or you’re mine,” says Deadshot.
“I don’t have that type of money,” says Thorne.
“Don’t lie to me Thorne,” says Deadshot, “you currently have a little over $20 million. If only you wouldn’t have wasted so much on this campaign.” Thorne doesn’t answer and looks down at Killer Croc. “You know what. I’m a reasonable man. I’ll give you till the results of the election to decide. At that time I want a definite answer Thorne.” Deadshot stands up and walks towards the door. “10 O’ clock.” Deadshot slams the door as he exits and Thorne pushes himself away from Killer Croc and walks out behind him.
He walks out of his office to find everyone talking and behaving naturally with no sign of Deadshot.
Penguin walks into a building followed by three other men. He laughs with them about maybe one day running for mayor. He walks into an office to find three batmen rummaging through his stuff. They look up at them and begin shooting. Penguin pulls another man in front of him who receives the bullets and then dives behind a table. He looks at his men who shoot back but are soon taken out. Then Selina enters through the front door and is shot at but she evades by jumping into another room and shutting the door. One of the batmen run after her and aims their gun at the door before breaking it down. He looks around but finds no sign of her and there is no window for her to escape from. Suddenly Selina jumps out from behind a desk and knocks the guy to the floor. She gets down on her knee and pounds the guy in the face. Hearing this, the two other men run towards the room. As one enters she grabs his gun and rips it from his hand and smacks him across the face with it. Then she grabs him by the arm and flips him smacking him against the floor and then stomping on his head. The last man shoots at her and grazes her arm. She jumps up the stairs as she’s followed by the man. He runs into her room and finds Selina grabbing a whip from the bed. She lashes the man with it and lets out a purr. Then she whips the gun out of his hand and then wraps the whip around his neck throwing him to the ground and with a knife from the man, stabs him in the back. Selina gets up from the knelt position breathing heavily and looks to the door and sees Penguin peaking in with a smile.
Thorne walks up to Hill and pulls him aside. He quickly tells him about what happened with Deadshot and Hill becomes worried. Then he tells him that Killer Croc is unconscious under his desk. Thorne takes him to his office and notices that Killer Croc is waking up. He rubs his head and feels the burns left from Deadshot. Thorne reaches for his gun but remembers that Deadshot took it. As Croc gains consciousness he looks at Thorne standing beside Hill and smiles his evil smile.
Bruce Wayne stands in the Batcave going through news articles on his computer. Alfred walks in and stands beside him. “Should I ask what you’re doing,” asks Alfred?
“This time it’s actually for Bruce Wayne,” says Bruce, “Deadshot is a mad man but opened my eyes about something. Gotham will continue to fall victim to evil unless someone intervenes. If Hill’s elected Thorne will take power and Gotham will fall. I will not let that happen.”
“So what’s this,” asks Alfred?
“I’m trying to find evidence that Hill is a fraud. I’ve found evidence of doctored diplomas and dirty politics. While Hill was studying to be a lawyer he didn’t passed the bar exam but somehow ends up in the most prestigious law school in America. You want more? Last year when Hill was lobbying to be the next candidate. Two of the other people interested in running are killed in the same way. Investigation was buried before it was even opened,” says Bruce.
“Coincidence,” asks Alfred?
“You can’t be serious.”
“I’m not but that’s what Gotham will say. It’s too late to sway the people.”
“If I accept that. Then I accept that it’s too late to save Gotham,” says Bruce. He clicks a button and the pages on the screen begin to print. “I’m doing this Alfred.”
Bruce begins to exit and Alfred speaks up, “If you go public, and speak this way to Gotham. People will believe you to be smarter than they think. Your cover up for the Bat will become a bit thinner. Can you live with that? Can you let Bruce Wayne be dominate over the bat?” Bruce looks at the papers and then at the door.
“I guess I have to.” Bruce walks up the stairs and disappears.
Thorne and Hill run out of the office as Croc charges them. The other advisors in the room quickly run out in fear, and Hill jumps behind some flipped tables and Throne moves into a corner. “You know I’ve been out for a long time. I think I need a snack,” says Croc licking his lips. He grabs Thorne and throws him at Hill. Then he charges them and kicks them on the floor. He grabs Hill with his nails and they begin to dig into his cheeks. He rips his nails out and a chunk of skin leaves Hill’s face. From behind him Thorne hits him with pole and croc rubs his head. “No no no,” says Croc. He turns around grabs the pole and swings Thorne into the wall. He walks after Hill licking his lips and showing a smile. Hill holds the bleeding hole in his cheek as Croc stops. He pulls out a cell phone and answers. “Croc. I’ve been calling you for hours where the hell are you,” says the voice on the phone. “I’m busy boss.” “GET DOWN HERE NOW.” Demands the voice. Croc closes the phone and looks at Hill. “You are very lucky.” He walks out the entrance and disappears into the streets.
Roman Sionis stands in the shower feeling the hot water spray his back. He looks at the curtain and sees a body move out the door. “Who’s there,” asks Sionis scared. He turns off the water and walks out of the shower. The camera is positioned in a way that we can’t see his lower body. He walks out of the shower and sees the woman from before with a bullet in her head.
“Hello Romano,” says the woman with an Italian accent.
“M…mmm….Mother,” says Roman.
“Yes my son.”
“No…you’re dead.”
“But I am alive in you Romano.”
“No…this can’t be.”
“But it is Romano. Don’t you see? I am here to help you. To save you from making a mistake and lead you the right way.”
“No…You’re not real. YOU’RE NOT REAL.”
“Does one have to be real to impact another’s life? Doesn’t Jesus Christ still impact the lives of his followers? I’m Jesus Romano, follow me…How is Circe,” asks his mom.
“Fine,” replies Roman with a quizzical look.
“Do you find it strange, that your father comes to your house when he knows you’re not there? He knows everyone’s working schedule. He knows when you’ll be home. Now don’t you find it even stranger that he comes when Circe is here?” Roman thinks it over and looks angry.
“Think about it Romano. Think about it.” She walks out the door and he follows her but she disappears as she walks away.
Bruce Wayne watches a man broadcasting on GCN and look at the paper in his hands thinking about what to do. He looks back at the man and walks to him.
Back at Penguins building Selina is grabbing her things. “You can’t leave me Selina,” says Penguin as she picks up her stuff.
“I’m gone Penguin. Forever. Bruce Wayne is already arranging for Holly to be moved. When she wakes up she won’t have to worry about this life anymore. I’ll make sure of that,” says Selina.
“No Selina,” says penguin taking out a pistol and holding it to her head, “you really can’t leave. You’re under my thumb, and you won’t get up till I let you go.”
“I can rip that gun from your disgusting hands Penguin.”
“Then do it.” Selina looks at him but does nothing. “I’ll make you a deal Selina. Be one of my hands and I’ll let you go in a week.”
“What do you mean one of your hands?”
“Did you see my guys fight today? It was laughable. I feared for my life. But then you come in and take out three armed men and hardly break a sweat. I just need you as a body guard.”
“You need a woman as your henchman. That’s just sad.”
“I know, but the way things are going I think I’m desperate. What do you say Selina? You interested?”
Bruce Wayne walks up to the reporter who greets him with a smile and a question. Bruce doesn’t respond to the question and begins speaking. “Hello Gotham. I’m Bruce Wayne. As you know today is the election between Mayor Anthony Garcia and Hamilton Hill. Although some may believe it is too late to sway their opinions, I come to you with important information on one of the candidates. I know many of you doubt the current mayor’s establishment. You fault him for the Joker and the fear toxin scare. You think he should’ve done more to protect us and to help us afterwards. You think that organized crime should be a thing of the past, that Gotham should be safe.” Other news casters notice Bruce Wayne’s broadcast and run over with cameras and microphones. “But I come to tell you that no city is safe. That it is impossible to find a city with no crime, and no fear, and no pain. If you vote for Garcia I cannot assure you that things will get better. I won’t promise you something that I can’t. But I can promise you that a vote for Hill is a vote for corruption.” Bruce begins explaining the information he found, and we see Hill’s campaign base moving in a frenzy trying to figure a way to combat this. “If Gotham wants a chance for a better day, you cannot vote for Hill.” We see Garcia sitting in his campaign base surrounded by advisors and smiling. “Vote Garcia for Gotham’s mayor and vote for hope. Vote for a better day, and vote against corruption. This message was not approved by Mayor Garcia.” Bruce walks away and people immediately attack him for comments. We see people in the line for voting thinking about what Bruce said.
Thorne begins kicking over furniture and punching the walls. Hill sits in the corner holding his bleeding face. “What do we do now,” asks Hill.
“WHY DO YOU ALWAYS ASK ME? Hm? Why don’t you ever give ME and idea?”
“Sorry boss but I just got attacked by a FRICKEN crocodile man.”
Thorne brushes back his hair and looks out the window. “You’re dead Hill. This city won’t want anything to do with you. And after they see this it will solidify that you’re corrupt. You need to leave.”
“What about you?”
“They don’t know I’m controlling you. Bruce Wayne will never figure it out. I’ll just tell people you threatened me to vouch for you or you’d kill me. I’ll make it sound like I’m a victim. I will run Gotham Hill. With or without you. We have a plane at Gotham Airport. I’ll set you up to leave and it’ll look like you ran away. Metropolis maybe. I know a gang down there that can give you a new identity and protect you, they’re called Inter gang.” Hill looks worried as he sits in the corner with tears in his eyes. “My life’s over,” says Hill. Thorne walks over to him and grabs him by his chin.
“No Hill. It’s only over if you mess up. If you rat yourself or me out. Inter Gang will set you up with a new identity and you’ll be free,” Thorne gets up and grabs his coat, “now let’s go. You got a plane to catch.”
Roman walks into his living room intensely pondering what his mother said. When he enters he finds his father speaking with Circe. “Hello Roman didn’t expect to see you here,” says his father with a smile. Roman clenches up at this thought and at the site of their smiles. “How did the new cosmetic go,” asks his father. Roman doesn’t answer and walks towards a bar in the corner.
“Roman your father is speaking to you,” says Circe with a smile. Roman chugs down his drink and looks at them with a straight face.
“Don’t patronize me you two,” says Roman.
“What,” asks his father, “son…” Roman throws his glass across the room and pushes over the bar. “DON’T. She told me everything. She told me,” says Roman.
“Who Roman…My son.”
“YOU ARE NOT MY FATHER. A real father wouldn’t sleep with his daughter-in-law.”
“Roman what…?
Roman takes out a gun and aims it at them. “Shut up whore.” They both back up and Roman walks towards them.
“What are you gonna do Roman. Kill me, like you did your mother.”
“No father. There’s a difference. That was an accident. I feel that this will feel very very good.”
Thorne and Hill arrive at the airport. They are met with five men in suits with pistols in hand. Thorne explains to him what to do when he gets to Metropolis and Hill agrees. They shake hands and Thorne walks away and Hill walks into the plane. From far away we see Deadshot’s target eye in the darkness.
It’s now 8:00pm
Batman stands on a high building looking out over the city looking for the next sign of trouble.
Hamilton Hill sits in his plane as it gets ready for takes off. He drinks water as his men surround him watching him. They lights flicker and the plane dips a bit but regains control. “Sorry everyone we seem to be experiencing some trouble, but we should make it to Metropolis on time.” Hill lets out a sigh and one of them men get up to see the pilot. A pop is heard in the plane and another man goes to check it out. Suddenly the body of the man gets thrown out of the room and everyone gets up holding their guns. Deadshot walks out from the pilot’s cabin and looks around.
“I advise you not to shoot. If you miss we all die,” says Deadshot. One of the men shoots Deadshot in the chest. He looks at the wound and lets out a sigh. Then he snaps and the lights go out. The men begin shooting like crazy and soon the cabin begins to light on fire. Deadshot evades blasts and shoots the gun men easily. Hill sits in the corner awaiting his punishment. Once all the men have been killed the cabin is lining with fire and the plane begins to shake.
Batman sees the flaming plane and jumps off the building and glides in that direction.
Deadshot walks up to Hill and puts his wrist gun to Hill’s head. “Don’t be shocked. Deep down, you knew this was coming.” Hill closes his eyes and begins praying. We see a back view of Deadshot and hear the pop from his wrist gun. The body falls and Deadshot walk towards an opening in the cabin. He looks down and sees different building coming closer to him. He takes off his mask and leaves his target eye in. He closes his eyes and falls out of the plane. His body spins in the air before crashing through an old warehouse and landing on his back.
Seconds later the plane crashes two miles from the warehouse.
Batman arrives at the crash site and soon after so do the police. Gordon and Bullock begin investigating the scene but find only dead bodies. Gordon sees Batman hiding in the shadows and walks over to him. “Isn’t it bad to be seen with me,” says Batman.
“Things don’t look good as it is,” says Gordon.
“This is Hill’s plane. It’s safe to say he was on it,” says Batman.
“Then who brought it down,” asks Gordon.
“Deadshot.” Gordon looks at him estranged. “He’s a killer. He killed Silversmith, Jansen, and now Hill. He’s taken out Gotham’s heavy hitters.”
“Maybe we should give him an award,” says Bullock walking up to them, “I knew you were with the Bat.” Says Bullcok angry.
“This isn’t the time Bullock,” says Gordon.
“I was brought here for one job, and that was to kill Batman.”
“It was to
catch Batman.”
“Don’t make no difference to me,” says Bullock taking out his gun.
“I know where Deadshot is,” says Batman. Bullock and Gordon look at him. “He jumped off the plane. I saw him land on a warehouse not far from here.”
“Then why didn’t you catch him,” asks Bullock. “Had to make sure everyone was ok here,” says Batman.
“Alright let’s go. We’ll take my car,” says Gordon. Batman presses a button on his belt.
“I think I’ll meet you there.” Suddenly a newly built batmobile drifts between them. Batman gets in and drives away.
“Wonder who he stole that from,” says Bullock putting down his gun.
“I take it upon myself not to ask questions like that,” replies Gordon. They walk to their car and drive away as more cops show up.
Batman gets to the warehouse and skulks around looking for Deadshot. He finds a pile of broken crates and finds blood. He takes a sample and puts it in his belt. Under the crates he finds a piece of paper with blood on it. He picks it up and finds a list of names. “Silversmith, Jansen, Hill, Sionis, Thorne, Gordon, Wayne” reads the list. Batman is intrigued to find his name on the list and quickly runs to his car noting that Sionis will be the next to be killed.
Sionis sits on his couch drinking from a cup. All we see his is head. The camera begins zooming out and we see Circe’s bloody and dead body on his lap with multiple bullet wounds and his father on the floor with the same. He looks over on the couch and sees his mother smiling. “Thank you mother.” Says Sionis raising his glass to his mother. Then she slowly disappears. He walks to his office still covered in blood and opens a box with symbols on it and opens it. Inside he finds a black skull mask. “I knew you would come for me,” says Sionis looking at the mask.
“Looks like I’m late for the party,” says Deadshot sitting on the window sill.
“Yes you were, and it was a good one,” replies Sionis still staring at the mask.
Batman speeds in the Batmobile as the computer analyzes the blood sample. After a long while the computer finds the identity of Floyd Lawton. Batman gets closer to the apartment building and rememerbs that roman lives on the 24th floor of the building.
Clicks from Deadshots wrists guns are heard. Sionis lets out a chuckle. “You see Deadshot. People have always underestimated me. They have always called me weak and stupid. When in reality…I was just in the wrong line of business. I was never meant to make cosmetics. I was meant for greater things. You wish to take over the underworld. Well guess what Deadshot.” We see Sionis’s back as he puts on the mask. “Well you have some completion now. And his name is,” Roman turns around and shows his black skull mask, “Black Mask.” “I still have the upper hand,” says Deadshot. “Really,” says Black Mask. The wall of shelves move over and an army of twenty batmen now without masks and showing their identical faces and wearing suits that instead of bats have black masks over the heart walk in. “Meet my…False Face Society. You may know them as the batmen. They kept me in the underworld loop,” says Black Mask. They all raise their guns at Deadshot who raises his. In one fluid motion Black Mask drops to one knee and makes pistols with his hands and his gang begins to shoot. Deadshot jumps away and receives some bullets as he jumps out of the room. The gang members run into the living room and Deadshot quickly runs and jumps out the window.
As he falls he closes his eyes awaiting death until he is taken out of the air by a swinging Batman on a grapple. They get into a lower level of the building and Batman flips to a fighting position while Deadshot slides across the floor and then stands up. “Why won’t you people just let me die,” says Deadshot bleeding from multiple places and looking weak. Deadshot runs to Batman and engages him in a heated hand to hand battle. Each matching the other ones blows. Batman grabs Deadshot and throws him towards the window. As Deadshot lands he fires his wrists guns at Batman who receives the bullets and flinches as they hit him. Batman dives at Deadshot who moves and makes Batman fly out the window. As he falls he fires at Grapple to the window and it grabs Deadshot by the arm and pulls him out as well. Batman takes out another grapple and shoots it up to the roof of the building. As they fly up Deadshot struggles to get loose but Batman holds on tight. They get to the roof and Batman throws him across the roof. Deadshot leaps in the air and hits Batman across the face with his foot and Batman falls to the floor. Then Deadshot puts one of his wrists gun to Batman’s chest and fires. Batman whales in pain and stays on the ground. “You couldn’t just let me do what I was doing,” says Deadshot holding his bullet wounds and grapple cut, “I WAS TRYING TO HELP GOTHAM.”
“Murder doesn’t help,” says Batman struggling to get up.
“Who needs people like Hill and Silversmith in this world? I know who. You see I’ve had a lot of time to think of this Batman and I think I know who needs them and the answer is you. You need people like this so you can continue to feel important. SO YOU CAN KEEP GOTHAM IN FEAR OF YOU. Cause if crime ends so will you Batman. Then what? I don’t really see you as a humanitarian, you agree Bruce,” says Deadshot. Batman gets up and gets in a battle stance. “You’re not even gonna disagree with me,” chuckles Deadshot. “I think its fair cause I left enough evidence to tell you who I am. Yes my name is Floyd Lawton. Batman you are the greatest detective in the world you figured me out. What are you going to do Batman? Turn me in? If you talk what stops me from talken?” Batman jumps at Deadshot and takes him to the ground. He begins punching at his already broken face. Then he grabs one of his wrist guns and struggles to rip it off. He finds that it is slightly dug into Deadshot’s skin and rips off his flesh with it. Then does the same with the other hand. Deadshot whales in pain as Batman picks him up by his neck and holds him over the edge of the building. “What you gonna do Batman? Shoot me,” chuckles Deadshot, “come on drop me.” They both remain silent. “Come on Batman drop me. I want you to kill me. I want to die. Come one Batman I jumped from an airplane, I jumped from the top floor of an apartment building. I got shot more tonight than anyone has ever lived through. I just want to die. COME ON BATMAN…ALL THE BAD THINGS I’VE DONE. I DESERVE THIS. PLEASE BATMAN RID ME OF MY SINS. LET ME OUT OF THIS WORLD JUST LET ME DIE. I DON’T WANT THIS PAIN ANYMORE. KILL ME!!” Demands Deadshot. Batman keeps his grip hard around deadshot’s neck then drops him on the ledge. “Just like I thought Batman. You can’t kill me. That means you can’t stop me. You’re just as easy as everyone else in Gotham” Deadshot receives two bullets to the chest and then two more. He drops to his knees and then falls back but Batman ctaches him and lays him back on the roof. Batman looks up to see Gordon aiming his gun. “Batman…” Batman looks over the side of the building and looks out to the city.
“This isn’t the way it should end Gordon,” says Batman.
“It’s the only way it can.” Batman opens his cape and flies off the building and Gordon watches him glide away into the darkness.
Bullock and a gang of more police men run up to the roof. They see the body and begin surrounding it. “Couldn’t have done it better myself comish,” says Bullock. Gordon doesn’t respond but continues staring off in the distance.
Black Mask stands in an underground layer surrounded by False Facers. “You see boys. I told you this day would come. I told you the False Face Society would be on top. Who’ll stop us now? Thorne, Penguin,” scuffs Black Mask, “they have nothing that can scare us, because we don’t fear. You see, Thorne feared and ended up losing to Deadshot, but did we lose to Deadshot? No,” Black Mask looks around the dark room at his identical looking men with blank looks. “In time we will rise, and Gotham will see its last sun rise. The war games are only beginning men, so get ready, because much more is to come.”
Batman stands in the Batcave going over different videos from the traffic cams. Alfred and Lucius walk in and stand on both sides of him. “Deadshot is still alive Batman,” says Lucius, “he’s unconscious but alive.” Batman doesn’t answer.
“Even if you don’t think so Bruce…you did a good job,” says Alfred, “you stopped a murderer, you stopped the people from electing a criminal. Believe it or not Gotham is safe for a little while.”
“But it will get bad again,” says Batman.
“You’re right Bruce,” says Lucius, “this is a never ending cycle. Gotham will continue to fall to madness. Why don’t we just let it fall?”
“Cause we can’t Lucius. This is a life I chose to lead. I had time to think about it. I had time to back out, but it’s too late now. This is my life. Batman is my life and I’ll never let it go. As long as Gotham needs it’s savior I’ll be here. Because I’m the hero that Gotham deserves, and the one it needs.” An alarm sounds through the batcave and Batman looks to see a robbery taking place at a jewelry store. “My city calls me,” says Batman. He walks over to the batmoble and gets in and blats out.
“You think he can really do this forever,” asks Lucius.
“Batman can,” says Alfred, “there has never been a doubt in my mind that Batman would go on.” We see the Batmobile quickly swerving in between cars. “The Batman leads us to brighter days and safer nights. And even if some people go free.” We see Killer Croc as he walks into the water of Gotham harbor. Then we see Gordon sitting in his office as an officer walks in. “Gordon, Deadshot’s gone.” Gordon gets up and runs out with him. We see Deadshot closing a case of money. As it closes we see Lew Moxon. “I did what I said I would. Gotham is crumbling down. And now it’s your chance to pick up the pieces,” says Deadshot. “Well you did it admirably. No one suspected you were working for someone. Would it be too much to ask you to stay,” asks Moxon. Deadshot picks up the suitcase and picks up another from the floor. “Although I enjoyed my stay in Gotham, a person called The Wall is looking for help. I go where the work is.” Moxon nods as Deadshot walks out. “Batman will stand by us, and protect us through whatever comes,” continues Alfred as we see Selina Kyle wearing a tight black leather suit. She puts up her hood that covers her face like a mask that resembles a cat. Then she holsters her whip and jumps out the window of her apartment, “But sadly Bruce Wayne will not go on forever.” We see Bruce Wayne giving a presentation to the board members. “He is the most admirable person I’ve ever met. Even though he can’t fly or run in super speed he still risks his life everyday for a city that shuns him.” “That is why I believe I should stay a part of Gotham’s Business Council,” says Bruce to the group. Garcia smiles at him and Bruce smiles back. “As much as he believes he is Batman I see them as two completely different people. You see because Bruce Wayne is mortal, but Batman…is Eternal.”
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