Author's Note: This is inspired by the idea of a Bruce Wayne TV show that was mentioned before "Smallville" came out. Right now it's in script format because that's the way I'm used to writing. I've borrowed elements from "Batman: Year One" (And, of course, I've taken a few liberties for the sake of the story.) Hope you enjoy it – reviews with constructive criticism will be greatly appreciated.
Spoilers: None
Rating: PG
Disclaimer: AOL Time Warner owns the rights to the Batman character created by Bob Kane. Elements from "Batman: Year One" belong to Frank Miller.
Bruce Wayne: Year One
Teaser.
An old revival theater is showing "The Mark of Zorro." It lets out. A flood of people exit, including the Waynes. They are all in a good mood. Bruce is holding his mother's hand while he tells his dad how much he loved Zorro. As they walk along the street, a voice calls to Thomas Wayne. Wayne turns towards the voice and sees a tall man standing there.
Gunman: Dr. Wayne
Dr. Wayne: Yes...
In slow motion and quick flashes, the gunman pulls out a 9 mm and starts to fire it at Wayne. Wanye drops to the ground. Martha starts to scream. Gunman fires at her. A bullet hits her pearl necklace and the pearls fall to the ground along with her body. Bruce stands terrified and shocked. The gunman points the gun at Bruce. Screams come from everywhere. The gunman runs.
Next scene. Bruce is sitting in a police patrol car. He is still in shock.
A male police detective and a female social worker walk up to Bruce.
Detective: Bruce, this is Melissa Korday, she's a social worker. She's going to ask you a few questions.
Korday: Hi, Bruce...First I would just like to say I am sorry for your loss. I'm here to help you out. Now, I called around to see who you can be with and I was told a Dr. Leslie Thompkins has custody in case of certain events. So, she'll be here very soon.
Leslie runs up to the patrol car where Bruce and the social worker are.
LT: Oh my God, Bruce! I'm so sorry, honey...I'm so sorry.
She holds Bruce while she cries. Bruce remains in shock.
Flash forward. 17 years later
Scene opens inside the Gotham City airport terminal. Dr. Thompkins arrives at the pickup area and sees Alfred waiting by the gate.
LT: Alfred...
Alfred:Dr. Thompkins...
LT: So, how long do you think he'll stay this time?
Alfred: Oh, considering he's done with his "business" in Tibet and Japan, I expect to have him around for another ... three weeks.
LT: You sure? He's usually gone after two days.
Alfred: Well, I've made arrangements for him to return to London to finish his studies at Cambridge, so I think he's just here to touch base with Mr. Fox.
Bruce walks out the terminal gate and comes towards Alfred and Leslie.
LT: Bruce!
Leslie greets him with open arms. She gives him a peck on the cheek. Bruce hugs back with a reluctant smile. He quickly releases her from the hug.
Bruce: Hi, Leslie....
Bruce looks at Alfred
Bruce: Alfred...
Alfred: Welcome home, Master Bruce. I've made those arrangements you've asked for.
Bruce: Cancel them. I've got new plans.
End of teaser.