Chapter 2: A Deal with the Devil in the Pale Moonlight.

Jack Ryder: "Ladies and Gentleman, it has nearly been 24 hours since a stunning breakout at both Blackgate Penitentiary and Arkham Asylum took place. Three dangerous criminals such as Roman Sionis AKA The Black Mask, The Clown Prince of Crime; The Joker, and his most well-known accomplice, Harley Quinn, all broke free from their containment at their respective confinements..."

On a screen on a Sky Cycle on a roof of a high-rise building in Gotham, Jack Ryder was speaking on the Gotham evening news.

It was Avenger's Sky Cycle. Ever since the breakout of the three mentioned criminals, Avenger has been all over the city, trying to look for signs of criminal activity. With both Black Mask and The Joker out there, things would start to get very dangerous for everyone.

Avenger decided to take a break after hours of searching unsuccessfully and call someone. His girlfriend, Lauren Winters who almost died the night before.

Lauren: "Hello?"

Avenger: "Lauren? Hey."

Lauren: "Hey, Riley. How are you doing? Are you on the job?"

Lauren tried to make a joke, trying to hide her own fear. She was shaken up after she was almost killed by Roman Sionis.

Avenger: "I am. But, Lauren, tell me. Are you okay?"

Lauren: "… To be honest, Riley, not really. In the last few months, I've been held at gunpoint by the Russian mob, a cult of psychos, and a crazy teenage mob boss. Then I get tossed out of a helicopter by a crime boss who had the pilot on his payroll."

Avenger: "I know and I'm sorry. You shouldn't have to go through those experiences."

Lauren: "Hey, I am a journalist. That is kinda my job."

This time, the two shared a chuckle to that.

Lauren: "Riley… Don't worry about me. I know that you called because you were worried, but I'm fine. I just need some time to get over it."

Avenger: "I know. But, I can't help it. I don't want you to be involved in this reality. You never chose this life."

Lauren: "(Sighs) What did I do to deserve you? Go on, go save Gotham. I'll be fine."

Avenger: "Okay, Lauren. I'll see you soon, okay?"

Lauren: "Yeah. See you later."

The phone call stopped there as both Riley and Lauren hung up. Riley knew that it wasn't easy to simply get over some things. He had to still live with the fact that his family had fallen apart these last few months. His dad died, came back, and tried to destroy the world. His brother had been incarcerated in Arkham Asylum. His mother apparently cheated in his dad which gave birth to Charlotte, his little sister. He didn't want to anything to happen to Lauren. Not ever.

That was when he heard an incoming call on the screen of his Sky Cycle. Usually when that sound was made, it was urgent and only a few people knew the frequency.

Walking over to the bike and pressing the receiver, a familiar voice could be heard speaking to him.

Batman: "Avenger."

Avenger: "Batman."

Batman was out of Gotham on Justice League business. Ever since the Watchtower exploded, Supercriminals around the globe have been active, prompting action from the League. So, with Batman out of Gotham, Avenger was doing his best to keep the peace.

Batman: "I heard what's been going on. Explain to me why both The Joker and Black Mask are loose in my city."

Avenger: "Sure. But, you better sort out your attitude."

Avenger and Batman haven't been on the best of terms since Avenger began his superhero career. The main issue between them had been the destruction of Chinatown that was committed by Roman Sionis using Batman's weapons stolen from him by Winston Grace. Also, the fact that Thomas Elliot had been drugged by Batman and left in a comatose state in Arkham Asylum to protect everyone's secret identities, didn't go over well with Avenger. The two have even gone to blows in the past.

Batman: "What is happening in Gotham?"

Avenger: "I checked Blackgate Penitentiary last night where the fire originated, in the prison's power generators. The resulting chain reaction created a huge explosion which set the prison ablaze. It was clear sabotage, so I believe that Black Mask had set the fire intentionally so that he could make his escape. He killed the warden Donald Griffin and hijacked a news helicopter. He took a hostage and I had to rescue her, so he ended up getting away.'

Batman: "Lauren Winters?"

Avenger: "Yes."

The way Batman spoke was like a father scolding his son. Avenger could picture Batman just scowling at him through his cowl as he spoke.

Avenger: "As for Joker, according to reports… Rick Troy tried to kill him, but inadvertently let him out of his cell. After that, Joker freed Harley Quinn and escaped the Asylum while we were all dealing with Sionis."

Rick Troy is Riley's half-brother who was incarcerated in Arkham following the assault on a prison guard. After undergoing a psychiatric test, Rick had been traumatised after an encounter with The Joker leading to his girlfriend and mother of his son, Becca, being sexually assaulted by the Clown Prince of Crime. Becca and, baby son, Hunter left Gotham a few weeks ago, leaving Rick to drown in his own insanity.

Batman: "The situation in Gotham is getting out of hand as it is. After Emma Grace went to Blackgate, there was no one who could keep the gangs under control. If Joker and Sionis regroup, this could lead to all-out war."

Avenger: "Which is why I'm hoping to find one of them before that happens. And I think I have a lead."

Batman: "What lead?"

Avenger: "At Blackgate, there was someone else there, got in using the riots as a distraction. Not a prison guard, just an ordinary man. A man with black hair and, get this, red eyes."

Batman: "Red eyes? I haven't seen anyone in Gotham that would match that description for a while. Maybe someone with a case of albinism. But, what was this man doing there and who is he?"

Avenger: "I did my research and the guy's name is Norman Blake. Aged 26, blood type AB negative, no existing criminal record."

Batman: "What did he want?"

Avenger: "He was there to kill Roman Sionis. That much is clear. No wonder, as well."

Batman: "Why? What connections does Blake have with Black Mask?"

Avenger: "Norman Blake was in Chinatown during Sionis' attack against the Yakuza a few months ago. You know, the one where he used YOUR weapons to turn an entire section of the city into a smouldering wasteland?"

Batman, on the other end of the call, narrowed his eyes at the obvious animosity towards him.

Avenger: "He lost everything in the chaos. His family, his girlfriend, his livelihood. This is a case of a man seeking revenge. And that, makes him dangerous."

Batman: "I'll be back in Gotham in a few days. But, tell me what you're going to do."

Avenger: "Well, I doubt that this setback is gonna cause Blake to give up. But, he won't be able to go straight for Sionis. By now, he's rejoined with his organisation and that means getting to him will be impossible. If Blake wants to get to Sionis, he'll have to go to the one person with enough stroke in Gotham that can oppose him…"

Elsewhere: Two Nights Later.

In the darkness of Gotham's, a familiar, yet maniacal and sinister laughter could be heard echoing throughout the streets. The Gotham Underworld was put on notice as The Joker had returned to the streets. He and his gang had began to sweep through the crime-ridden belly of the city, taking control of business and fronts and men. Roman Sionis had gotten a head start and he controlled the majority of Gotham's crime syndicates, so Joker had some catching up to do.

In downtown Gotham, Joker, now dressed in his purple suit, set up shop in an abandoned toy warehouse. The Jester Fun House. Spinning around like a kid in a candy store, The Joker takes in his surroundings as if he fell in love with the place.

Joker: "Ho, ho, ho! Christmas came early this year! This will do while I do some spring cleaning over Gotham."

Harley: "Oh, Mistah J! It's perfect! Just imagine all the stuff we can get up to in here."

The Joker was followed by Harley Quinn and several of Joker's men. Harley had changed out of the Arkham jumpsuit and into black- and red outfit with a sleeveless top, elbow pads, tight shorts, knee pads, and boots. She had coated her face in white make-up. As she looked around herself, she found a toy mallet that resembled her favourite one.

Harley: "Ohhh! Whoever made these definitely had a sense of style! I'm gonna keep this one!"

Picking up the mallet, Harley felt complete while holding it, but the feeling passed when Joker came up beside her looking through each box.

Joker: "Hey, down in front!"

Joker, with a single motion, shoved Harley aside and, without concern for her, began searching through the box.

Harley had been tittering on the edge of rejecting or obeying Joker. She knew that it was a bad idea to go with him, but she couldn't resist. But, she picked up a shard of glass that lied on the ground and lifted it, prepared to end the life of the man in front of her. But…

Joker: "Here!"

Joker came out of the box, holding a squeaky rose toy in his hand. Harley couldn't help but drop the glass shard and feel flattered by the gesture.

Harley: "Puddin'… How sweet."

Harley took the rose and hugged it close to her as Joker walked away from her and sat on a throne that rested in the moonlight.

Joker: "Okay, tour's over! It's time for some mayhem. I want it big! I want Roman's Mask under my foot, and on my wall! Hehehe!"

Harley: "But, Black Mask has more men, guns, and money than we do. How do we start?"

Joker: "Oh, come on, Harley! Where's your imagination? You don't need more stuff to win… Although it would help."

Joker spoke enthusiastically, but the end of his sentence ended with him musing over the fact that he didn't have as much as Roman Sionis.

Joker: "We just need something that hit Romly right in those big black eyes of his… And give him one too, hehe! But, what can we use? Who would take on this responsibility?"

Looking at the men in front of him, Joker pointed at one then shook his head. And at another and shook his head.

Harley: "I've got an idea, puddin'!"

Harley held up her hand to say something, causing Joker to sigh and rubbed his forehead with his hand.

Joker: "Look, cupcake, I appreciate the effort, but I'm the criminal mastermind here."

Harley: "What does that make me?"

Joker: "My…"

Joker tried to say something nice, saying something horrible may cause Harley to leave or worse, try to kill him… Joker laughed that idea of in his head, but seriously he had to say something nice.

Joker: "My queen."

Harley made a cheerful smile like a child who had been given a lollipop.

Harley: "Oh, sweetie!"

Just as Joker was about to respond…

"Hey, Boss!"

One of Joker's men ran through the door and…

BANG!

Joker had pulled out a revolver from his suit and shot at the door, narrowly missing his henchmen. Joker made an unpleasant expression before it morphed into a sick grin.

Joker: "Oh, I'm sorry. I almost killed you. Now, continue what you were saying?"

The man gulped as he realised he just did something he wasn't supposed to. Cut The Joker off when he was talking.

"Umm, I just heard that someone was asking around for you. He's on his way here now."

Joker leaned forward excitedly on his throne.

Joker: "Is it Bats, by any chance? He sure got to work quickly."

The henchman shook his head.

"N-No. it's not Batman."

Joker again made an unpleasant expression and got out of his throne. He walked past Harley and got in the face of his henchmen who was terrified to the point that he was backed against a wall.

Joker: "Then who is it?"

"I don't know, boss! I just heard that someone was coming this way and I thought you should know! Please don't kill me!"

The man pleaded for his life. But the Clown Prince rubbed his chin with his fingers, trying to think of who this mystery man is. He turned around and began walking away, allowing the henchman to take a sigh of relief. But, Joker suddenly turned his body and aimed his revolver at the henchman and pulled the trigger.

BANG!

Walking away, Joker began to mutter under his breath about being interrupted in mid-thought. With the boss gone, the remaining men, now shaken by the display, looked to Harley for guidance.

Harley: "What are you bozos looking at?! Find out who this chump is already! And somebody clean that up. I don't wanna live with the smell of death all around stinking the joint up."

Outside

Just a few blocks away, a black car pulled up on a neighbouring road. With a breath of uncertainty, Norman got out of his car and locked the door. He was now in uncharted territory. Since the break-in at Blackgate, apparently there's now an All-Points Bulletin out on him. Officially he was now a criminal that had been charged with murder. He knew he was going to be in this situation, but he thought he would have killed Sionis by now.

Since Black Mask was now back with his own criminal organisation, Norman would never be able to simply go in and shoot him. Too many guns between him and his target. To kill Sionis, he needed connections. Ones powerful enough to get him close enough to finish what he set out to do. The only man that had those connections was the Clown Prince of Crime, the only man that currently rivalled Sionis.

However, Norman had heard many tales about The Joker. One of Batman's most dangerous enemies and one of the biggest threats to Gotham in it's history. And Norman was about to go and see him.

The man is a psychotic, anti-social, murdering freak. But he was good at killing people and that's what Norman needed.

He turned around and saw his destination in sight. The abandoned Jester Fun house, an old toy store that was shut down for building defective toys. And actual mallets.

Norman's Glock shivered under his coat. It was a cold night and it felt like things would get even colder in Hell. That's where he was going. He could turn around now and leave Gotham. Start a new life somewhere else… But, the man who tore his life apart had to die and he had to be the one to do it. Not Joker, not Batman, no one… Except him.

As he approached, Norman found that people were surrounding him. Steps that echoed in the shadows came into the moonlight as men with Clown masks and baseball bats, the stuff of nightmares, began to encircle Norman.

"Look what we have here. Some fool who thinks he can come into our turf."

A generic big man with a filthy white tank top and a baseball bat wearing a clown mask approached first, getting close to Norman while whacking his bat against his hand threateningly.

Norman: "You ever heard of personal space?"

The big man in the clown mask looked at his fellow gang members, a falsely impressed expression underneath his mask.

"We got ourselves a joker here. Funny enough, do you know whose turf it is?"

Norman: "Yes. This is where Joker's set up. I need to speak with him."

The man made a wheezy, hysterical laugh. As he did, the gang members surrounding Norman also laughed hysterically.

"He wants... Haha! He wants…"

The laughter continued and Norman began to lose his patience. He wanted Sionis dead, and these clowns were getting in his way. He was tempted just to pull out his gun and start shooting, but doing that, may make it impossible to get The Joker's support.

Norman: "Are you done? You're wasting my time."

The laughter slowly drew to a close as the big man again towered over Norman.

"Man, you crazy. You think you can waltz in our territory and ask to see the big man himself? Who are you? You ain't nothing!"

Norman: "I tell you what I am…"

BLAM!

Norman had finally had enough. He came here for help, but he was not about to be pushed around by the hired help.

Norman: "I'm the man with the gun."

The other gang members then became worried. Since they just got started on the streets, they barely had any guns, so they didn't know what they were going to do.

Norman looked around at the other gang members.

Norman: "Who wants to show me to The Joker?"

Holding the group at gunpoint, Norman forces them to led him inside the warehouse. Inside the place was clearly abandoned and filled to the brim with recalled toys such as clown costumes, splintered baseball bats, dolls, mallets, etc… Looking around, Norman didn't see any other gang members. He wondered if Joker really had the manpower he needed to get to Sionis, but he wouldn't know what the plans were until he met him.

The group led Norman into an empty and spacious room. Immediately, he knew something was going on. A trap?

Norman: "What is this?!"

The doors shut behind him and the gang members chuckled. He was locked in. It was a trap!

Norman: "Just for that, I'm gonna put a bullet in each of your skulls!"

Before Norman could squeeze the trigger of his gun, he felt something hard hit him in the back of the head. He fell to his knees, disoriented from the blow. He tried to keep ahold of his gun, but a foot kicked it away. There went his only defence.

Harley: "Well, well, well. What'a we have here?"

Looking up, Norman's gaze went to the boots, then up the legs, all the way up to the face with white make-up. Harley Quinn looked down on Norman, holding a baseball of her own. She knelt down to get a look at him.

Harley: "Hey, are those eyes contacts? They look amazing! Your face don't look too bad, neither. Maybe if you had a beard…"

Harley began to fiddle with Norman's face which annoyed him to the point that he shoved Harley back. Standing back up, Harley made a little smirk as she held her bat.

Harley: "Oh, ya like the rough stuff, do ya? Okay, I can be rough!"

Harley held her back over her head and she swung down, hitting Norman right in the back of the head. Feeling himself fade into consciousness, Norman wondered if he would ever wake up again.

"Okay, let's kill this fool!"

Harley picked up Norman's gun and stuck her hand out, motioning for them to stop.

Harley: "Uh uh, nope! Mistah J will want to have a word with this one."

An few hours later

Norman awoke in unfamiliar surroundings. His vision was hazy, but slowly came into focus. He could tell he was still inside the abandoned toy warehouse since he was surrounded by recalled toys, but what he couldn't tell was where exactly he was. Looking around, it seemed like he was in some crazy throne room or some storage room, or maybe they were the same thing. He felt the rope tightened across his bare skin. They had removed his clothing, leaving him in nothing but the skin he was born in.

Then he saw him. Someone twirling around in the pale moonlight.

The Devil himself.

The white Devil with that sick grin that tells you that any deals made with this man will cost you everything you knew and everything you loved.

Fortunately for Norman, he had nothing to lose.

Seeing that his prisoner had awoken, Joker had walked over to him. He made an unpleasant look as he held a revolver in his hands.

Joker: "So sleeping beauty has woken from his little nap."

Norman: "You're The Joker, right?"

Joker: "Who's asking? Oh right, you! Haha!"

With a short laugh, Joker went back to an all business attitude. He began to slowly walk around the chair that Norman was tied to.

Joker: "So… I've heard that you've been asking about me. There is a very short list of people who tend to ask about me. Psychiatrists, Superheroes, Policemen, Lawyers, Madmen, Lowlifes, Men in Bat costumes… Hmm, that actually isn't a short list, isn't it?"

Joker stopped behind Norman and bent down next to him, resting his head on top of his shoulders.

Joker: "Now, which category do you fall under, my naked friend?"

Norman: "Since you made sure I'm not wearing a wire, I'm no cop. I don't own a costume. The Batman doesn't use guns. I don't have a law or medical degree."

Joker: "That means you're either a lowlife or a madman."

Norman: "Take your pick."

Joker had a short laugh as he stood back up and stood in front of Norman. His revolver resting comfortably in his hand and his finger gently on the trigger.

Joker: "Then you want to tell me why you're here? You come into my house, shoot one of my guys, shove Harley… My hobby, by the way!"

Norman knew he now had The Joker's attention. It was tricky, but playing Joker's game was the only way to go. Now it was time to make his case.

Norman: "I heard that you're about to go to war against the Black Mask. I want in."

Joker: "You want to join my gang? Why would you want that? You don't seem like the other dunce caps. You have a purpose here."

The Joker was clearly smarter than he looked, but Norman wanted to play his cards as close to his chest as possible. Revealing his reasons may bore Joker into killing him. So he kept silent.

Joker: "Not willing to share? Hmm…"

Norman: "I'll do whatever you want. I just want to kill Roman Sionis. Do we have an agreement?"

Joker stared at the gun in his hand and back to Norman as if deciding if he should shoot him or not. Someone shows up out of nowhere and asks to join so he can kill his rival? Very suspicious, but interesting at the same time. He wouldn't have come here if he wasn't desperate, and the Joker could work with desperation…

Joker aimed his gun at Norman. The man focused his crimson eyes on The Joker.

And then…

BANG!

A gunshot sound rang out… Followed by a stick appearing out the gun and a small flag unrolls with the word BANG on it.

Joker made an hysterical laugh as he saw that Norman didn't flinch or even blink when he pulled the trigger.

Joker: "You know what? I actually like you! You have such fearlessness in the face of death. That's the sort of man I need to charge into battle against dear old Roman."

The door then opened and Harley came into the room.

Harley: "Puddin', I heard a gunshot, should we clean up the me… Hello."

The first thing Harley see when she gets into the room is a naked Norman tied to the chair. Staring at him, Harley smiles and makes a flirtatious wave.

Harley: "Hi there, I'm Harley. Nice to meet you."

Harley jumps forward and sticks out her hand, but of course Norman was still tied up.

Norman: "I would shake your hand, but I'm all tied up right now."

Harley: "Well, it's not all bad. For me, anyway."

Harley giggles for a moment, soaking in the sights. Joker then made a sadistic smile and grabbed Harley by her twin-tailed hair, causing Harley to cry out in pain.

Joker: "Like ogling the hired help, cupcake? Well, stop! Before daddy has to punish you!"

Throwing Harley to the ground, Joker regained his composure and turned back to Norman. He didn't like seeing women get victimised like that, but one: Harley was The Joker's girlfriend, she can leave him if she wants. And two: it was none of Norman's business. He had managed to get on Joker's good side, he didn't need to ruin his own goals because of Harley Quinn.

Joker: "Sorry about that. She needs some more training."

Joker stared back at Harley with a disgusted expression before staring back at Norman. Harley's nose was bleeding after she was thrown to the ground so hard face first. She picked herself up and quietly left the room.

Joker: "I may like you now… What do I call you?"

Norman didn't want to use his real name. Not yet, anyway. It may attract too much attention to him at once. He may no longer have a future as Norman Blake, but now he has to become someone else. Something else.

Norman: "Call me Crimson."

Joker: "Ohhhh. Fancy name. Can't argue with it. Anyway, I may like you now, but I still need proof that you're the real deal before you join my crew. How about I give you a job to do and, if you pass, you're in."

The newly self-dubbed Crimson didn't like having to jump through hoops, but it seemed like the only way he was going to get into Joker's gang.

Crimson: "Okay. Fine… Before we continue, could I please have my clothes back?"

There was a short awkward silence between the two. Just nothing but quiet as the two stared at each other.

Joker: "…"

Crimson: "…"

Joker: "Can't we do it like this?"

Crimson: "No."

With a sigh, Joker went behind Crimson and untied him before throwing his clothes at him.

Joker: "Party pooper."

Joker waited for Crimson to get dressed back into his red shirt, leather jacket, and jeans with black boots. With Crimson now dressed, the two continued their conversation.

Crimson: "Now I feel better. What is this job you were talking about?"

Joker: "What? Oh, right. Well, it's kind of embarrassing, but when I got out of Arkham before, I found that some of my old businesses decided they didn't want to work with me anymore. So much for loyalty these days…"

Joker was smiling. But there was something about that smile. Was Joker angry, disappointed, happy?

Joker: "Getting to the point. One of my old businesses, Jack's Comedy Club, is a front for my guns. The manager, Frankie Alfonso, decided to sell out to Black Mask. With my guns!"

Joker leaned forward, making a twisted expression of anger at the thought that his guns were in the hands of a traitor.

Crimson: "So you don't have any guns here. What are you going to do if Sionis comes knocking at your door? Throw your wingtips at him?"

Crimson joked, even though his expression of seriousness didn't change. Joker made a slight chuckle before glaring at him.

Joker: "I make the jokes around here. Yes, I don't have any guns here. I need those guns before Black Mask gets them."

Crimson: "Okay, I can do that. How do I get the guns here?"

Joker: "Your problem. And don't bring them here. Head to the docks with the guns when you're done and we'll take care of the rest."

Crimson: "So I do this, and I'm in. That simple?"

Joker: "Scout's honour."

After his conversation with Joker, Crimson then started to walk through the warehouse to the exit. The men inside watched him with looks of shock and anger, the fact that Joker let him go after Crimson shot one of their own didn't go down well. Ignoring them, Crimson exited the warehouse. He entered as Norman Blake and now left as Crimson, a henchman in training for the Clown Prince of Crime.

Checking his gun, which Joker returned to him, he saw that he still had all his bullets. It showed to Crimson that for now, Joker needed him, and to stay alive he had to stay useful otherwise his career as a criminal would come to an end rather quickly.

Entering his car, Crimson drove off for Jack's Comedy Club.

Upon arriving to the club, Crimson watched the outside of the building. There was a line of people waiting to enter the club and there was a bouncer was guarding the door. Shooting his way in didn't seem like a winning option, not to mention, it would only result in the police showing up before he had a chance to escape with the guns.

The only option here was stealth. But that posed the question of how? If he couldn't go through the front door, then how?

Crimson's answer came when a waiter inside the club could be seen in the alleyway smoking a cigarette. A wry smile formed on Crimson's face as he just found his way in.

Getting out of the car, Crimson casually walked over to the alleyway. The police and any costumed vigilantes may be looking for him, so a low-profile was best. He snuck up on the waiter and wrapped his arms around his neck, choking him. Dragging him behind a dumpster so that no one could see them, Crimson strangled the waiter until he lost consciousness.

Crimson: "Time to get to work."

Taking the waiter's clothes, dumping him in the dumpster and then putting his uniform on, Crimson entered the kitchen through the side entrance. Inside, a Caucasian male with well-styled hair and wearing a three-piece suit went up to him. The name tag on his blazer said "Alfonso", so Crimson immediately assumed that the man was Frankie Alfonso, the man who double-crossed Joker.

Frankie: "Excuse me, who are you? Where's Mikey? His smoke break should have ended by now."

Thinking on his feet, Crimson came up with a quick excuse.

Crimson: "Sorry, pal. Mikey went home, he said he had an emergency. He called me to take his place. Name's Blake, by the way."

Frankie made an irritated expression. It didn't seem like he suspected a thing.

Frankie: "God damn it, Mikey! You coulda at least told me before you bail out… Okay, do you know how to serve out there?"

Crimson: "As much as the next guy."

Frankie pointed to a tray of various drinks. Martinis, Vodka, Wine, etc…

Frankie: "Get out there and serve those drinks to tables 2, 5, and 8. Jack is killing it out there, but the more drunk people get, the more they eat it up."

Crimson: "Yes, boss."

As much as Crimson didn't want to do this, he had to keep a low-profile until he found out where The Joker's guns were. Taking the tray of drinks, Crimson went into the main hall where chairs and tables all placed in rows in front of a stage where a lone man was standing there with a microphone.

Jack: "You know, what about this man in a bat costume? He pretends it's Halloween like every night! How does he get his toys, eh? It's like he has a lot of money… What would be funny, is that if you take off Batman's mask, it turns out he was Bruce Wayne!"

The crowd roars in raucous laughter as the comedian, Jack, tells his jokes. The entire thing made Crimson want to vomit. Loud places weren't his favourite and he remembered that he hadn't had a drink in the last couple of days. It was like he was coming down from the world's biggest hangover. He still handed out the drinks like he was instructed, wondering how he was going to find the guns.

In the kitchen, Frankie was on the phone, trying to call Mikey but he wasn't getting through.

Frankie: "I swear Mikey… When I see you again, I'm gonna cut ya nuts off and play golf with them!"

When he went outside to see if he could get a better signal, he heard a ringing from the dumpster next to him. Hanging up the phone and calling again, the sound could be heard again. Slowly walking over to the dumpster with a look of trepidation, he opened the dumpster to see a man knocked out in his boxers covered by a jacket, red shirt, and a pair of jeans. It was Mikey.

Frankie: "What the Hell?!"

Racing back into the kitchen, Frankie was about to shout, before he saw the TV. Jack Ryder was on the evening news with the image of a man fitting his new waiter's description, except the eyes.

Jack Ryder: "Norman Blake. Suspected in the murder of several prisoners during last night's riot, is considered armed and extremely dangerous…"

Frankie then became anxious. Why would a criminal come to his club? He was running a legitimate business… Unless he knew about the guns! But how? Frankie didn't really care, he wanted this guy gone! Permanently.

Back in the main hall, Crimson noticed that men wearing black suits and wearing communication earpieces were beginning to move. His cover was blown. They knew he wasn't one of the staff and they were about to show how displeased they can be about it.

Two of them approached Crimson after he had finished handling out the drinks. One came behind him, the other in front of him.

"Excuse me, sir. Come with us. Now."

The two men spoke sharply.

Crimson: "Okay, boys. Let's just…"

Without a wasted motion, Crimson whacked the tray around the head of the man behind him, knocking him down. The second man then tried to pull out his gun, but his arm was grabbed and twisted by Crimson. The patrons of the Comedy Club began to notice the fighting and moved away, some of them making murmurs of confusing and worry. Others encouraged the fighting.

The comedian on stage, Jack, didn't like that he was losing his audience to a random fight.

Jack: "What's going on?! Are we in a comedy club or a bar?!"

After breaking the man's arm, Crimson grabbed and violently twisted the security guard's neck, breaking it. This was when people began to start screaming and running.

Jack: "That's it! You cost me a night's salary!"

Jack pulled out a gun from his blazer, but he was beaten to the draw when Crimson pulled out his gun and fired, gunning the comedian down. He also shot the first security guard that he knocked down with the tray who tried to go for his own gun. Picking it up, Crimson cocked his two guns, ready for action.

That was when more men wearing jackets and tracksuit bottoms came running out of the kitchen, carrying automatic sub-machine guns. Diving to avoid the many pellets that now filled the air, Crimson took cover behind one of the tables, flipping it on its side to shield himself as the automatic fire tore the club apart. Taking a chance, Crimson dived through the air, unloading fire and fury onto his attackers. Two of the gunmen were hit and killed by the gunfire by the time Crimson landed and got behind another table. More and more men then came into the hall only for Crimson to lean out of cover and shoot more of them dead. Crimson again came out of cover, killing more of the enemy gunmen. The feeling of regret surfaced in Crimson, as he remembered how life used to be. Delivering items around Gotham, a quiet life with his girlfriend, blissful reunions with family members. He never asked for any of this nonsense, to be thrust into this life.

Thinking that the guns were likely gonna be halfway across Gotham by now, he began to get annoyed with being pinned down and he did want most sane men wouldn't. He charged towards the gunmen rapidly pulling the triggers of his dual guns. Diving through the air, he prayed that when he landed, he wouldn't get shot in the head. The tactic somehow worked as he landed on the ground and the gunmen fell to the ground with bullets wounds, allowing the blood to flow onto the ground. The entire club had been shredded by gunfire and bodies were everywhere.

With his guns empty, he tossed them away and picked up an automatic from one of Frankie's men. He began to wonder if Frankie had left yet and with the guns…

Frankie had no desire to get into a gunfight. He had a feeling that this guy was after the guns and he didn't want to fail Black Mask, so he ran into the back of the club where a garage was based. There was a truck waiting there. Getting into the cab, Frankie tried to start the car, but it stalled.

Frankie: "Come on! Start, Goddamn it!"

Frankie frantically tried to get the car to start, but just as the car showed signs of life…

Crimson: "Thanks for waiting, Frankie."

Frankie gasped in horror as he was yanked from the safety of the truck cab and thrown against the wall. Staring down the dark barrel of a gun, Frankie's bladder restraint failed him as a puddle of liquid was formed at his feet.

Crimson: "Thanks for keeping the guns safe. I really appreciate it."

Frankie: "L-Look, don't you realise what you're doing?! Those guns are for…"

Crimson: "Roman Sionis. I know. I also know that you're a backstabbing traitor who stole these guns from the Joker."

Frankie's expression became one of shock as he realised it. The man in front of him was working for his old boss, The Joker.

Frankie: "Hold on. You're working for Joker? You're insane! That guy's a psycho! I got out and signed up with Black Mask because he knows how to run a empire. Joker doesn't care what happens to guys like you and me! He just wants to kill people."

Frankie tried to reason with Crimson. Trying to buy sand for the hourglass.

Frankie: "Come with me and I'll get you work for Black Mask. I'm sure that he will need guys like you to help him with his empire. Actual work. You'll be rolling in money and action. How about it?"

However, Crimson wasn't selling any.

BRATATATA!

A short squeeze of the trigger turned Frankie's head into a bloody mess. His body went limp as the life poured from his body and he fell into that puddle he created earlier.

Crimson: "No thanks."

Crimson took a moment to take a look at the back of the truck. Inside were many crates. Upon opening one, his crimson eyes widened as the crate will full of what appeared to be military-grade hardware. Assault rifles and Explosives just to name a couple. The Joker could arm a small army with this arsenal. This would certainly get him enough favour with the Clown Prince of Crime and he would deal Sionis a bit of damage. The thought of Black Mask throwing around his furniture amused Crimson as he closed the back of the truck.

Knowing it would be a matter of time before the police show up, Crimson opened the garage door and entered the cab of the truck before driving it into the street. For a brief moment, he remembered his past life as a delivery driver, as that was pretty much what he was doing now. Delivering weapons to a psychotic clown.

As Crimson drove onto the street, someone was watching on the rooftop outside. Narrowing his eyes, having found his target, he spoke.

Avenger: "Blake."

Having received word that there was a shootout at Jack's Comedy Club, Avenger came here as quickly as possible only to see Crimson leaving the garage. Running across the rooftops, Avenger followed Crimson. With luck, he should lead him to The Joker.

Without incident, Crimson successfully drove the truck into Gotham's docks where The Joker asked him to deliver them.

Crimson: "Why would Joker want me to deliver the guns here of all places?"

Asking himself that question, Crimson shook the thought away as it didn't matter. This was the first step to getting to Sionis, so for now, doing what The Joker wants is necessary.

Up ahead, Crimson saw a familiar face with a bruised nose. Harley, wearing an construction helmet, was waving two red light sticks in the air, trying to get his attention. Heading towards her, Crimson slowly drove the truck into position.

Harley: "That's right. Left a bit. Then right a bit."

Following her instructions, however ridiculous it was, and parked the truck.

Crimson: "Was that really necessary?"

Harley: "What? I don't get to do this often. I didn't actually think you were gonna show up."

Crimson: "Then why are you here?"

Harley: "In case you showed up, geez Louise!"

Harley crossed her arms as she went to the back of the truck, jumped on, and inspected the crates that were in the back.

Harley: "Wowee! Check out the merchandise back here! You could bulldoze a battleship with these."

Crimson: "I guess. Will the boss be happy about this?"

Harley turned around and bent down with her hands on her hips, staring down at Crimson with a quizzical look.

Harley: "Hey. Why do you want to work for my puddin' anyways? You don't seem as stupid as the other dumbos."

Crimson: "I have my reasons."

Harley: "Are you trying to play hard to get? Some girls don't find that attractive, y'know?"

Crimson: "I. Have. My reasons."

Crimson insisted as he narrowed his eyes at Harley, causing her to sigh in disappointment.

Harley: "Alright, alright, have ya stupid reasons."

While that was going on, Harley's men were being taken down one by one by an unseen assailant…

Crimson: "Harley?"

Harley: "Hmmm? What'a ya want, Crimsly?"

Crimson didn't know if Harley was crazy or just stupid. But, there was one thing he had to know.

Crimson: "What is Joker like? I prefer to know if the guy I'm working for is gonna shoot me later."

Harley began to remember all the times that she had with Joker. Some were good and most were bad. It was only good if Joker wanted something, but at the end of the day, she was always second place to everything else.

Turning her back to Crimson, Harley spoke.

Harley: "Well… Have you ever fell in love with someone before?"

Crimson: "I don't know. The last girlfriend I had was sweet and kind, but never understood me."

Harley: "I kinda feel that way too."

Harley turned back to face Crimson, showing that she was trying to keep it together, but was upset.

Harley: "The Joker is a man who loves himself. He hates life, thinks of it as some sick joke. So he tries to show everyone else his vision. He's an admirable man."

Crimson: "You don't look or sound like you see him that way."

Crimson leaned against the truck listening to Harley speak. For some reason, it felt like the only normal thing he did since Chinatown. Just feeling the cold wind blow and listening to the girlfriend of a psycho clown… Normal.

Harley: "He's sweet. In his own way. But, I know he's not the one for me. But, yet I can't stop myself from coming back to him, even if I resist, he does something that makes me fall in love all over again."

Crimson listened to Harley's story closely. Getting close with Harley could get him closer to The Joker which could help him in the long run. Although as selfish as he knew he was being, even he agreed that this kind of relationship wasn't healthy for anyone.

Crimson: "Doesn't sound right to me. I don't want to judge you or Joker, I don't have that right, but aren't you getting the short end of the stick here?"

Harley: "I know."

Harley wanted to stop talking. Was she that pathetic that she was talking about her problems to a man she never met before tonight? She knocked him out and then saw him naked tied to a chair, for crying out loud.

Harley: "Okay, let's get these guns moving!"

Her energy returned as she started calling, but no one responded.

Crimson: "Umm, Harley? Where are your guys?"

Harley: "Usually by now, they're knocked out and then some superhero comes out of nowhere to save the day."

Avenger: "Wow, I never knew it was that predictable."

Avenger was standing there, holding the last of Harley's men by his shirt collar. Dropping him to the ground, Avenger stepped forward with a resolute look.

Avenger: "I'm shutting you down."