Commissioner Gordon stood in the seedy bar. He couldn't believe it. He didn't want to believe it. He couldn't understand it. "What happened?" Gordon didn't need to turn around to see who it was. He could tell by the rusty voice. Also he could hear the scum quieten down and move further away.
Gordon turned to face the Batman. "The Joker happened. Escaped Arkham and came here. Killed a customer and left" he said bluntly.
"Hope he cuts that kid up good. She's to blame for this". Gordon turned to face the man the voice had come from. He sat in the corner smoking. "What kid?". The man smirked and took a long drag of his cigarette. "She'll show up soon commissioner. Probably in the gutter". Before Gordon could react, Batman had the goon pinned against the wall. "Tell me what happened now". Gordon even shuddered at the seriousness of his voice. "Okay man, just take it easy. The barmaid got into a fight with Grantly. That's the dead guy. Then the Joker shot him. That's it. I mean if the kid hadn't got into the fight, Grantly would still be alive" he said panting.
Batman released him with a shove. "Who started the fight? The girl?" The man shook his head. Batman turned to Gordon. "Why would he intervene?" asked Batman looking troubled. Gordon placed a hand on his shoulder. "I don't think he was playing hero. He was probably just sending a message". Batman shook his head. "No, he would have killed the girl. Or both! He's planning something. Where is the girl?"
"Gone. She left as soon as he shot the guy. And he went straight after her". It was Chuck who was talking now. "What's her name?" asked Gordon. "She never gave me one. Very mysterious. Listen she seemed like a good kid. I'm only telling you this because I don't want her to get hurt. And I know that son of a bitch will hurt her". Batman scowled. "You want this kid safe but you're not giving us much to go on". Chuck scowled back. "She looks about 19/20 okay? Very long curly hair. Pretty girl…..oh and red converse shoes". Batman punched the wall. "And of course I could go around hunting for her but by the time I find her she could be dead. You're telling me he didn't give you a number?" Chuck swallowed hard. "He will kill me". Batman took a step towards him. "I promise I will not let that happen. He will not get the chance. Do the right thing. Call him and I can save her".
Chuck just stared at Batman and Gordon.