Chapter 14

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters. Dc. Does.

Batman did reach his destiny on the rooftop. He was about an hour late, but surprisingly the two officers were still there waiting. When they saw Batman, the one flicked his cigarette.

"Well, it looks like Gordon's Golden Boy decided to show up."

Batman narrowed his eyes and drew his cape around himself. He tried to ignore the comments. Bruce knew these men when Gordon was alive. They were good and honest officers and he knew in their hearts that they appreciated the Batman.

Batman usually responded to the signal within 10-15 minutes. This time however, he and Alfred needed to finish their discussion. It was long overdue. Things that had never been said or words that were ignored over the years were finally brought to light.

"You know, for someone with such a high IQ, Master Bruce," Alfred had stated, "Sometimes you can be quite dense."

Bruce had just smiled.

"I had best be going now Alfred," His voice sounded unsure and regretful.

"It is necessary sir." Alfred remarked patting the young man on his shoulder the pride welling within.

"I am quite glad that we had this talk however. I was starting to think I would have to spend my remaining years talking to myself," Alfred was quick to add.

Bruce nodded and went over to the floor where the abandoned Batsuit lay.

"You ready?" Bruce said meaning needing help with the Batsuit.

"Are you, Master Bruce?" Alfred said meaning something else entirely.

"What do you have for me, "Batman rasped turning his attention back to the two gentlemen in front of him and leaving the previous thoughts in the back of his mind.

The first officer, Daniels, handed a letter over to Batman. He opened it carefully with his latex glove. He tried his best to squelch the gasp that he held under his breath. It was a photo of Gordon and Jared Prentz (Joker). Although the picture seemed innocent enough, Batman knew there was something else he wasn't seeing. Batman chose his words carefully.

"What does this mean?"

The officers looked at each other. The younger one Booker straightened his cap.

"Well, sir, we were hoping you would be able to tell us that."

"Where did you get his?" Batman asked already knowing the answer.

"The Joker," was the reply.

Batman was gone before the man finished speaking.