Chapter 3: Broken peace.

-Riley Rivers-

Riley: "Haa... Haa..."

The feeling of sweat pouring down my brow. The strain of my muscles screaming to hold on. The smell of oil in my garage.

Just enough to distract me temporary.

I am using a martial arts training dummy as well as a few dumbbells to train. Dad had some left over from the... Training we did before he died.

I then feel a sharp pain in my gut! W-What is this? Did I work myself too hard...
No, another sensation from those memories I've been having.

Did Dad... Stab me?

I stop working out and I put my back to the wall.

I really don't know who my dad was anymore. I saw the scar on mom's neck, and i keep having these strange sensations. I don't know what to do. I can't talk to mom about this. She wouldn't want to remember Dad like that, I can tell that no matter what Dad did in the past, mom loved him more than anything.

I quickly check the clock. It's almost six in the morning. Mom wakes up at around 8:30, so that'll be another 2 hours of working out... Heck, there's nothing for me to do. I don't have a job to go to.

I decide to turn on the small TV that was hanging on the wall. Something to listen to as I striking the training dummy.

It's the six o' clock with Jack Ryder.

Ryder: "Good morning Gotham! It's the six o' clock news and I am Jack Ryder.
Out top story today is the aftermath of a suspected mass murder at City Hall last night. Several of Gotham's leading politicians were found dead last night and our sources reveal that there was only one survivor: Theodore Galavan. In recent weeks since the destruction of Chinatown in a deadly riot started by local crime lord, Roman Sionis better known as The Black Mask, Galavan has run several re-housing projects for the survivors of the Chinatown destruction."

I stopped working out for a moment and paid better attention to the TV. I turn up the volume.

Ryder: "We now go live to Vicki Vale who is at the GCPD station in the East End, awaiting Commissioner Gordon to arrive."

The screen then cut to Vicki Vale.

-Lauren Winters-

I don't get up this early often, but this is an exception. Miss Vale is reporting live at the East End and I just had to watch her work.

Mrs Winters: "Here you go, Lauren."

Mom hands me a cup of coffee as she sits down next to me.

Vicki: "This is Vicki Vale, reporting live from the East End Police station. In a few moments, Police Commissioner James Gordon will be live to discuss the events at City Hall where it has been confirmed that at least seven men and women were killed... Oh, I'm getting word that James Gordon is on his way out now!"

Just as she said that, Commissioner Gordon is walking out of the police station to a podium.

Gordon: "At around 10:46 PM last night, the bodies of several of Gotham's leading politicians were discovered last night in City Hall's board room. Later this morning, an autopsy will be conducted, but going from first indications,
and visible slash wounds, we can assume that the victims were killed with bladed weapons. The length of the wounds indicate that the weapons were daggers or knifes. As of yet, we are unclear of possible suspects, but we will be leading a full investigation as soon as the results of the autopsy come through."

It was Miss Vale who asked a question first.

Vicki: "Commissioner. My sources have it on good advice that there was a survivor of the attacks. Is this true?"

Gordon: "You have good sources, Miss Vale. Yes, there was a survivor. Theodore Galavan. We have taken a statement from Mr Galavan, who is currently running for Gotham Mayor. He has stated that the attackers came in through the windows. He was closest to the door so he escaped and called the police."

Vicki: "Commissioner. Since Galavan is the only one still alive right now, isn't that strange? Considering that the mayoral elections are coming up, the fact that there's no one to oppose him, isn't that sufficient motive?"

Miss Vale really is on point with her questions, I wouldn't have thought of that... That would be a good reason for the other politicians to be killed off... No one that Galavan has to be worried about.

Gordon: "Miss Vale. I'd appreciate it if you stop doing police work. We have checked out Galavan's story and it checks out, I'm certain that Galavan is NOT in any way linked to this murder and we have reason to believe that he was also a target.
I would also like to add that this city that currently has no leadership in City Hall, I would like to give my endorsement to Theodore Galavan to become Mayor of Gotham. With that, no further questions."

The other journalists start asking more questions as Commissioner Gordon returns inside the building. T-That was weird. He wasn't out there for long and only answered two questions.

Mrs Winters: "That was suspect at best."

I have to agree. There's something going on here.

-Kieran Troy-

I turned off the TV after watching the police conference. Something is up here. I've been an attorney for nearly 20 years and I've been in Gotham for 14, and I've actually met Commissioner Gordon once, he didn't seem like the type to just turn a police conference into an endorsement stunt.

I stood up and I pick up my phone. It's now 6:30. Charlotte has to go to school in an hour, I might as well just have a cup of coffee and get started on breakfast.

KNOCK KNOCK

I heard a knock at the door. Who could be here this early in the morning?

I went to the door and opened it...

?: "Hello, Kieran. It's been a long time."

I didn't know the man at the time, but it took a bit of looking. He was a fair skinned male and had a bald head and blue eyes.

Kieran: "Y-You?"

?: "Relax, I'm not that man anymore. I'm here to talk to you as a friend."

I couldn't believe who it was.

*Three hours later, Gotham Cemetery*
-Riley Rivers-

Here lies Michael Rivers. A great man of law enforcement and devoted husband and father. 1978 - 2016.

This is my dad's grave. I didn't have anyone else to turn to, so I turned to the one man who had answers... But, he's not here to answer them.

Riley: "Dad... Tell me, what did you really do to me? Were you really the man i thought you were?"

I felt silly and I felt mad for talking to my dad's tombstone. I buried this man little of a month ago and here I am accusing him of crime within my own mind.

I felt like I had to come here to find something. To think.

But, in the end I got no answers. I wish I could ask someone. But, Michael Rivers was seen by the world as a good police officer and a decent family man... Why am I questioning my own dad? He's the reason I'm doing what I do. Maybe it's the fact I'm frustrated that I have no job...

I better go. Have a little walkabout.

-Lauren Winters-

Man, I feel tired...

After last night's thunderstorm, I barely got any sleep plus waking up for whatever sleep I had so I could watch Miss Vale deliver her live report, I spent the remaining morning packing my stuff away.

I'm now on my way to have lunch with Miss Vale. I sent her a text, asking for her to meet me. I'm sure that her journalistic instinct are lighting up after that police conference. She might have a big story idea that I can help with.

I head to a coffee shop that I really like... I hope I don't sound cheap, but I hope that I can go halves on the bill with Miss Vale. I can't afford to spend too much.

However, when I arrive at the shop, I see Riley Rivers sitting outside drinking a cup.

I've recently spoke with Riley. He's been looking for a job after his previous law firm was shut down after Kieran Troy reportedly attacked someone with a fire axe.

He looks like he has a lot on his mind. Maybe he could use a friend...

Lauren: "Riley!"

He turns his head and notices me. He has a small smile on his face when he speaks.

Riley: "Oh! Lauren. Good afternoon."

I walk up to his table and notice the smell of sweet tea from his cup.

Lauren: "I didn't think you'd come here. I don't usually see you here of all places."

Riley: "As you know, I don't have a job, so I need to go somewhere during the day."

Looking at him now, no one would guess that this man is really a masked vigilante.
Last night, I couldn't help but think and worry about Riley. In fact, this whole situation with City Hall... Is Riley going to get involved with that next?

Lauren: "What about your mother? How is she?"

Riley: "Fine. She's as healthy as ever. Stubborn as ever too."

I couldn't help but find that funny. My mom was also stubborn at times as well.

Lauren: "Tee hee! Really? Mine too."

I am glad that Miss Rivers is okay though. She was in the hospital for a time, so the fact she's healthy is great news.

Riley: "Anyway, how are you, Lauren? You told me last week that you and your mom finally found a home thanks to a rehousing project. Have you moved in?"

Lauren: "Yeah, just last night. I finally managed to unpack this morning..."

I stop. I wonder if Riley watched the news this morning?

Lauren: "Did you see the police conference this morning?"

Riley: "I did. The Commissioner was acting out of character."

Lauren: "What do you mean?"

Riley: "Commissioner James Gordon is someone who gets his facts first and he'll look for every clue that may indicate how and why the crime was committed. But...
This morning, it looked to me that he's been ignoring clear evidence. He can't have taken the time to closely look at Galavan's story from last night to now.
Makes no sense."

I was right. Riley is concerned about this.

Lauren: "What do you think will happen?"

Riley: "With Gordon's endorsement, Theodore Galavan will run for Mayor. And with anyone who could oppose him dead, it'll be a quick election. I did hear that the US Attorney is appointing a new District Attorney for Gotham, so that may be the best news I've heard for a while."

A new District Attorney? As long as it's not Fish Mooney, I don't care who it is.

Lauren: "Do you think that the city could be in trouble again?"

Riley: "I hope not, Lauren. I really do hope not."

I could tell that Riley had a lot on his mind and all I've done is add a little bit more to it. Come on, Lauren! Change the subject! I want to make Riley feel better, not worry him.

Lauren: "All this political stuff is making me thirsty. I need coffee anyway."

The waiter soon came past and I ordered some coffee.

Riley: "You shouldn't rely too much on coffee. You might become too dependant on the caffeine."

Lauren: "It's a drink, not hard drugs. But, is that why you don't drink coffee?"

Riley: "Yeah. The drawbacks outweigh the benefits."

Riley really does take his job... Jobs seriously. To think he wouldn't drink coffee in case it affected his performance in any way.

Riley: "How's journalism, Lauren?"

Lauren: "Well, my editor hates me and there isn't a story to follow up so right now,
my job rather sucks right now."

Riley: "Looks like we both have career issues. Why don't you talk to Vicki Vale? She must have something. Especially after the police conference."

Lauren: "That's actually why I'm here. She's meeting me here."

Riley: "Oh. Sorry."

Lauren: "What for?"

Riley: "I didn't mean to take up your time."

He's really sweet... I'm the one who spoke to him yet he thinks he's at fault? I wonder if he's the angsty type of guy?

Lauren: "Don't be silly. I love talking with you."

D-Did I just say "Love"? I-I mean I didn't mean it that way. I just meant conversation wise. Please, please, don't read too much into it...

Riley: "Likewise. Talking and drinking tea and coffee with someone is great every once in a while.

Riley drank the last of his tea and checked his phone. When he did, his expression changed. Like he was surprised.

Lauren: "Did something happen?"

Riley: "No. It's Kieran Troy. He's asking where I am and he'll pick me up with Charlotte."

Lauren: "Kieran Troy? What would he want? Isn't he your mom's ex-boyfriend?"

Riley: "Yeah. I don't know what he wants, but I can tell it's not good."

I know that Kieran Troy is the father of Rick and Charlotte Troy. Riley told me that Charlotte is kind of like a little sister to him but they're not blood related.

Within a few minutes, a car pulled up beside the store. Kieran Troy was in the driver's seat while a little girl was in the backseat. That must be Charlotte.

Charlotte: "Riley!"

Charlotte had her smiling face pressed against the window.

Riley: "Hello, Charlotte! How's my little sister?"

Charlotte: "I just finished school! We did art today. Do you want to see my painting?"

Riley: "When we get home."

Riley left some money on the table.

Lauren: "R-Riley, you don't have to pay."

Riley: "I do. This is for my order and some for your order. You still have a meeting with Miss Vale, don't you?"

I tried to argue against him, but as expected of a lawyer, he didn't take no for an answer. He got into Kieran Troy's car... I didn't know what to make of Kieran Troy. He did attack someone with a fire axe, but according to Riley, he was under duress.

I waved to him and he waved back, and the car then sped away.

I then started to feel alone for some reason. Riley really is a good guy, isn't he?

Vicki: "Lauren."

I saw Miss Vale walking towards me.

Lauren: "Miss Vale!"

Miss Vale then sat down where Riley was sitting.

Vicki: "This seat is usually warm."

Lauren: "Riley was just here."

Vicki: "You mean the lawyer? Why was he here?"

Lauren: "Ever since Kieran Troy was arrested, his license has been held up. Riley lost his job since Troy's Law Firm was closed."

Vicki: "That's Gotham for you. Making hard working people pay for someone else's mistakes."

I know. Riley didn't do anything wrong, yet he and his fellow colleagues lost their jobs because of what happened.

Vicki: "Anyway, what did you want to speak to me about?"

Lauren: "Well... I wanted to ask about this morning. You don't really believe what The Commissioner said. Do you?"

Miss Vale gave me a smile then.

-Riley Rivers-

We arrived at Kieran's home. Charlotte took me to her room to show me her painting.

It was one of me... Well, Avenger. Saving her life from the wicked woman named Fish.

Charlotte: "Do you like it?"

Riley: "I love it, Charlotte."

She hugged the painting and she placed it under her bed.

Charlotte: "Will I see Mr Avenger again, Riley?"

Riley: "Maybe. I'm not sure."

This is the good I've done for Charlotte. Seeing her like this, really cheers me up. I don't know what kind of man my Dad was, but I know what kind of man I am.

Kieran then appeared at the door. Whatever he wants to talk about, it's not good at all. He didn't say a word since picking me up from the coffee caf .

Kieran: "Umm, Charlotte? Sweetheart, could you give daddy and Riley time to talk?
Go play in the garden."

Charlotte: "Okay!"

Charlotte ran outside and started spinning around. I could watch her play all day.

Kieran: "Riley."

But, Kieran wants to talk. And I have a bad feeling about it.

I sat down in front of Kieran.

Riley: "Okay, Kieran. What's going on? It must be big for you to come to me about it."

Kieran: "Riley, you're the only one who'd understand. As you know, my license was been revoked until my case was fully investigated. All my friends want nothing to do with me. Rick would never understand my position. He's too busy arguing with Becca and getting ahold of women and drugs..."

Rick is a difficult person to deal with at times. He's even asked Charlotte for her birthday money more than once... Hang on.

Riley: "You said your license 'was' revoked. What do you mean by that?"

Kieran: "Well, my license was revoked until this morning. I've been reinstated as an attorney."

W-What?! That's big news! But, that's impossible. Kieran was being threatened by Fish Mooney to sabotage my case to defend Gordon when he was arrested for conspiracy to kill Hamilton Hill. Kieran was acting under duress, but Kieran's actions went a little too far. I thought for sure that he'd be disbarred.

Kieran: "That's not all. I've been offered a job. To work in the DA's office as Assistant District Attorney."

Riley: "K-Kieran, that's great news! But, how can you simply skip the requirements needed to become an Assistant Attorney?"

Kieran: "I've worked in the Gotham's DA office before. It's how I met Fish... And how she knew how to use me. The District Attorney came by this morning to offer me a job. I couldn't believe when it happened."

Riley: "You mean the new District Attorney that the state appointed. He's arrived in Gotham?"

Kieran: "Yeah. He wanted me to be the ADA, since I had experience beforehand."

A new DA and Kieran as ADA. I don't know what to make of it. I'm happy for Kieran,
but honestly, it's such a surprise to me.

Riley: "Okay, whose the new DA?"

Kieran: "That's the part you're not gonna believe. It's Harvey Dent."

W-Wha...

Riley: "Excuse me. Did you just say Harvey Dent?!"

Kieran: "I know. It's mad..."

Riley: "It's insane!"

I almost shouted out loud! Harvey Dent, as in Two-Face?! A psychotic crime lord who makes his decision based on a coin?! That's our new District Attorney?!
Who made that decision?!

Riley: "You do know that Harvey Dent is a crime lord, right?! How many people has that man killed?"

Kieran: "Ex-crime lord, Riley. I met him this morning. He told me that his license was also reinstated and the state offered him his old job as District Attorney,
since Gotham is in need of someone to fill the role."

Riley: "The state can't just make that decision! This is not a comic book or the district of Columbia! There are rules and regulations in place. Not to mention,
that an election has to take place to decide a new DA."

Kieran: "That's what I said. But, he said that Gotham has suffered as a result of a faulty legal system and justice has been obstructed on more than one occasion.
It was decided that the DA's office couldn't wait for an election."

Riley: "So they just went ahead and picked Harvey Dent of all people? They couldn't have picked anyone else instead?"

I was furious at this situation. If there was anyone worse than Fish Mooney, it'd be Harvey Dent.

Kieran: "I understand why you'd be upset, Riley. Trust me, I couldn't believe when he walked in here and offered me a job. But, he had a psycratic test and documents to prove it. Also, his face isn't scarred anymore. He was fixed up by a really good surgeon. He's better now, I know it."

Riley: "You sound like you know him."

Kieran: "I did... I do. We were friends when I worked for the DA's office. I was primed to become Assistant District Attorney until... Well, you know the story:
Sal Maroni threw acid in his face and then he went insane. I know it's mad, but i trust that he's better."

I don't like it one bit. I don't like it at all.

Kieran: "That isn't the only reason I called you here, Riley."

Riley: "That's not all? What's next? The Joker gonna become president?"

Kieran cracks a smile at that.

Kieran: "Nothing that drastic, no. You haven't found a new firm, haven't you?"

Riley: "No. No law firm is in need of more attorneys."

Kieran: "That's my fault. I shouldn't have let myself lose control like that. You stopped me then from doing something I would have regretted."

Kieran then pulled out a piece of paper. It had been laminated.

Riley: "What's this?"

Kieran: "A deed to the old law firm building. I've already arranged the transfer documents."

I looked at the document and scanned over it. It appears genuine. It had the right address.

Riley: "W-What... Why are you giving me this?"

Kieran: "I won't need it anymore. I'm going back to the DA's office and you need a job. You completed the management course back at Gotham University?"

Riley: "Yeah. I did."

Kieran: "So you should have everything you need. Everything in the building has been seized after the firm was shut down, cubicles, copiers, the works. But my office was maintained, so you should have what you need."

Riley: "What about getting permission?"

Kieran: "No problem. I can take care of that tomorrow when I head down to the DA's office. I send off the relevant paperwork and by the end of the week, you should be able to get started."

This is so much to take in. Kieran has not just given me some shocking news, but given me a new job.

Riley: "Kieran... I don't know what to say. Thanks. It'll help me so much."

Kieran: "We're pretty much family, Riley. Just promise me that you won't go over your head like you did during the Gordon case."

Riley: "I'm sure that I won't find myself in situations like that again."

Besides, having my own firm means I can have my own clientele. I can decide who i help. I don't have to simply defend anyone. I can defend the innocent, not criminals.

*That Night*
-Barbara Gordon-

I was watching the police conference this morning and I saw that my father was acting very different than usual.

It doesn't take the World's Greatest Detective to see that evidence is being covered up by the police. But, what I don't understand is why is my dad involved? This isn't like him at all.

I've tried calling, but he won't return my calls. So, I've come back to the house.
I'll prepare for him to arrive and then I'll speak to him. I'll have a look around first. If someone got to my dad, I'll find out.

I remember my key for the door, and I unlock it.

Barbara: "Hello? Anyone home?"

No answer. Good. He isn't here yet.

I enter the house and I go into the kitchen... I notice that there isn't a single cup in the sink. That's strange. Normally, Dad makes himself a cup of coffee in the morning and doesn't have time to wash the cup. He usually does it when he gets home.

I'm starting to get worried. My father is acting too out of character.

I went upstairs to check for the bedroom. Something has happened to my father, that man on the TV wasn't him!

I check the bedroom...

Barbara: "Oh my God... Dad?!"

Dad was strapped to the bed and it looked like he'd been beaten.

Barbara: "Dad! Dad! What happened to you?!"

I tried to undo the straps restraining my dad to the bed.

Gordon: "B-Barbara... Trap..."

Barbara: "What?"

I didn't hear properly what Dad said, but I had a feeling that I was in trouble now.

?: "Hello, Miss Gordon."

I turned around and I was met with... Dad?

?: "You don't remember me? I'm hurt."

This man grabbed me by the neck with both hands. He started to apply pressure to my neck! I-I couldn't break free. He was too strong.

?: "First you and your father die, then Batman."

B-Batman?

*One Hour Earlier*
-Batman-

For Gordon to endorse someone who was involved in a murder investigation isn't like him. Right now, I need to speak to Jim and find out what is happening.

I have been researching the symbol that me and Dick found on the bodies of those killed in City Hall and there are connections to sites all around the world. Galavan has appeared at least once in places with that symbol and it's not a coincidence.

The batsignal is high above the sky, which means Gordon wishes to contact me.

So I head to the GCPD station rooftop.

But, there isn't a sign of Gordon anywhere.

Batman: "Jim?"

It's too quiet... This could be a trap.

Alfred: "Master B... Multiple sni... Can... me?.."

Batman: "Penny-one? Penny-one? Are you there?"

My communications are being jammed. That means the GCPD's Special Crimes Unit are behind this. They have Waynetech that's designed to cut communications.

In an instant, a spotlight shone on me from above! It was from a helicopter.
This was a trap! I can hear footsteps approaching my position and I noticed red laser sights all over my body. From the snipers on the roofs all around me.

The officers in the helicopter started to speak to me using their megaphone.

"Batman! This is the police! You are surrounded! Drop any weapons you have and come peacefully or we will use lethal force!"

Jim wouldn't allow an ambush by GCPD. He said that he was having trouble with his men's hostility towards me, but there's no higher power here. GCPD can't just make an ambush.

I'll have to figure this out later. For now, I did have a failsafe in case GCPD used Waynetech against me. A secret switch that'll shut down any Wayne that doesn't have special 'bat-protection' within a mile.

With a single press, my communications come back online.

Batman: "Penny-One, I'm surrounded and have little options. I need an exit."

Alfred: "Providing one now."

With that, a smoke bomb was launched from the Batmobile into the helicopter, hitting the spotlight. Not just turning out the light, but also creating a smoke cloud over the rooftop.

"Open fire! Open fire!"

I quickly move. The GCPD will shoot every crevice of this rooftop, just to hit me.

Batman: "Arghh!"

A bullet hit me in the leg. I could feel it inside, but I couldn't slow down.

I quickly leap off the rooftop and the Batmobile is waiting for me. I quickly enter the cockpit and I drive off.

"Batman's been spotted! He's escaping in his car! All available officers give pursuit!"

I hear that over the GCPD comms. Within seconds, the Batmobile is being chased by GCPD cruisers.

Only the Commissioner would be able to pull all these resources together in such a short time. There's no way that can be Jim. Someone else is behind this.
It has to be someone who can impersonate Gordon's appearance and voice and have enough intelligence to organize a trap like this in less than 24 hours...

It can't be Clayface, unless he's being directed by someone. There is one other person that can impersonate someone and be skilful enough to manipulate the entire GCPD.

Hush.

If that's the case, where is Gordon?

*Thirty minutes Earlier*
-Harvey Dent-

How many years has it been since I've seen the inside of this DA's office. I've been given a second chance to finally do what I set out to do with James Gordon and Batman all those years ago.

Clean up Gotham of all the crime and corrupt.

First of all, I set at my desk. I turn on my computer and research Theodore Galavan. He's someone who has been all over the world and has amassed a lot of money. However, there isn't much to go on from the database.

I know who and what Theodore Galavan is, but it's difficult to prove a solid case against someone without prove. As an attorney, words only get you so far.

I need to get in touch with Batman first and let him know what happened to Commissioner Gordon. If Doctor Elliot has gotten to him, he may not have much time. But, if that's the case, then the entire GCPD will be focused on Batman. I wish I had access to the Batphone...

I then felt a breeze in the room. A cold Gotham breeze.

Harvey: "That's odd. I didn't leave the windows open..."

?: "No, but I did."

I suddenly felt my arm twisted behind my back and I found myself bent over my desk.

Harvey: "Who are you?"

I got a look at him. He was wearing all black except his exposed arms. There was an 'A' on his chest.

Harvey: "You must be Avenger. You're one of Batman's group."

Avenger: "I don't work with Batman."

Harvey: "What are you doing here then?"

Avenger: "I was gonna ask you the same question, Two-Face."

Two-Face. For years I battled against that... Other half of myself. 'He' controlled my life for so long and I finally got myself back.

Harvey: "I'm not him anymore."

Avenger: "Do you really expect me to believe that? You've been a crime lord for so long and now suddenly, you become the District Attorney? Suspect."

Harvey: "I see you're well-informed. But, you have to believe that I'm here to help this city."

Avenger: "You'll understand if don't take your word for it."

If this boy don't work with Batman, yet he's independent, he may be perfect for saving Gordon.

Harvey: "I'll tell you something you can use. Commissioner Gordon, this morning."

Avenger: "What about him?"

Harvey: "It's not actually him. It's Thomas Elliot."

There was a small pause. He was processing what I'd told him.

Avenger: "Do you really expect me to believe that?"

Harvey: "Who do you think fixed my face? Thomas Elliot fixed my face in exchange for working with Theodore Galavan."

He released my arm and allowed me to stand upright.

Avenger: "Who is Theodore Galavan? What is happening in Gotham right now?"

Harvey: "I know you have questions, but there isn't time. Gordon could be in serious danger right now. You have to save him, Avenger."

Avenger: "Answer me this: If Hush fixed your face so that you work with Galavan,
why betray him?"

Harvey: "All good attorneys know that deals must be broken for the greater good."

Avenger stared me down for a moment. He was testing my body language trying to judge if I'm telling the truth...

"Mr Dent. Those files are ready."

I heard someone at the door and turned for a second before turning back... Avenger was gone.

Harvey: "Why do they always do that?"

-Avenger-

I was on top of the DA's office after speaking with Harvey Dent, the new District Attorney appointed by the state.

He's told me that Hush has returned and that Commissioner Gordon could be in danger. Has Hush been posing as Gordon? That could be why the conference this morning didn't seem right at all. If Hush is working with Galavan, posing as the police commissioner could allow Hush to dispose of any evidence and promote Galavan's election campaign since Gordon is someone the people listen to.

I need to find Gordon fast and the best place to look is Gordon's house.

I soon arrived at the Gordon residence and there's no sign of anyone at home.
Hush may not be here right now...

I then noticed a car pull up to the house. It was Miss Gordon's. She must be here to look for her father too, but is she aware of Hush? Hush knows that Barbara Gordon is Batgirl, so he must know that Barbara would come soon... Unless it's a trap for her.

I quickly shoot my grapple gun towards the upper floor window and, as I'm ziplining over, I see that Commissioner Gordon strapped to a bed and... Commissioner Gordon strangling Miss Gordon! That's Hush!

I dive through the window and I hit Hush in the head with my fist, knocking him back and freeing Miss Gordon.

Barbara: "(Coughs)"

I quickly check on Miss Gordon and see that she's okay. She's shaken a bit, but okay.

Barbara: "Go after him! He can't get away!"

Avenger: "He won't."

I ran out of the room and down the stairs...

BLAM BLAM!

I quickly take cover as Hush is opening fire with his dual handguns.

Hush: "You can't win, Rivers. I intend to kill Bruce tonight with his own allies.
I authorised a SCU operation specially to take down Batman, and with Commissioner Gordon and her daughter dead, I'll use the GCPD to kill anyone else who stands in my way."

Avenger: "What about Galavan? What's his role in all this? You make him look good and get rid of evidence against him and he helps you out?"

Hush: "Galavan is just a pawn in my plans. He thinks that I'll simply give him what rightfully belongs to me. Bruce has turned this into his city, therefore it shall become my city."

Avenger: "Let me guess: Harvey Dent is supposed to help you out with that too,
right?"

Hush: "What?!"

Hush was surprised for that split second, but that was all I needed. I threw the baton at the wall which ricocheted and hit Hush's guns out of his hands. I then ran at Hush and kicked him into the wall.

Avenger: "Dent sold you out, Doctor Elliot. He told me you surgically repaired his face in exchange for his help as District Attorney. Unfortuanlty, a good lawyer knows that deals are made to be broken."

Hush retaliated from my kick and tackled me to the ground. Thomas Elliot is a tactical opponent that even Batman was concerned about facing, I guess I know why. He's difficult to beat even if you have the advantage.

Hush: "Is that so? I'll be sure to pay that traitor a visit once I'm done with you."

A batarang then grazed Hush in the head. I looked and saw that Miss Gordon was the one who threw it.

Hush: "Aahhh!"

I got back up and then grabbed Hush. I slammed him through the living room table,
knocking him out.

Avenger: "You're going to Arkham."

I picked up Hush, but Miss Gordon stopped me.

Barbara: "No. If you take him to Arkham, he'll reveal everything about us to the criminals there."

This really ticked me off. Miss Gordon, who is the daughter of a policeman, is acting in the interest of Batman and not the law.

Avenger: "What's the alterative?! Lock him in one of Batman's safehouses?"

Miss Gordon was silent.

Avenger: "You're considering it..."

Barbara: "What else can we do?! He knows who you are too!"

Avenger: "I know... But, we're not the law. You can't just lock him away yourselves."

Barbara: "Rivers, grow up. Hush is too dangerous to put in Arkham."

I could do nothing but scowl. Once again, Batman is making his own laws... Thinking that he controls Gotham.

I shove Hush down to the ground.

Avenger: "Do what you want with him. Count me out."

I walk out of the house.

Barbara: "Wait!"

I ignore her and I leave.

I'm done with Batman and the family.

-Batman-

I am convinced that Hush is behind this entire operation. The police are blocking off most of my escape routes before I reach them. Hush is one of the few people that would know this information. I didn't know how I'll escape GCPD's SCU as the fleet of cruiser follow behind me.

I can't count on help from the others right now. Jason is out of Gotham and Tim is with the Titans. Dick returned to Bludhaven yesterday and Barbara isn't answering her communicator. I'm on my own here.

Alfred: "Sir, I believe there is one escape route you haven't tried."

Batman: "What's that, Alfred?"

Alfred: "Try the skies."

As Alfred says that, I noticed an aircraft in the sky above.

The Batwing.

Batman: "I don't deserve you, Alfred."

Alfred: "No, sir. You don't."

The Batwing has a magnet strong enough to hold the Batmobile. Lucius has been really busy.

The magnet descends from the Batwing and attaches itself to the Batmobile. The Batwing then starts to pull the Batmobile up as it flies higher in the sky.

"RPGS! Shoot down Batman's aircraft! Do not let him escape!"

I hear over the GCPD comms that they're planning to shoot down the Batmobile, but i then hear another voice.

Gordon: "Stand down, Sargent! Batman is not the target!"

Jim? How? I thought Hush had him?

"Commissioner?! You authorised this operation."

Gordon: "The person that authorised this operation was an imposter, posing as me.
He's been taken into custody, so stand down! Batman is not the enemy!"

"Sorry Commissioner. But, Batman needs to be taken down. We protect this city,
not Batman."

A missile was fired at the Batwing, but I should be able to use the flares to misdirect it... However, a second missile from the opposite direction appeared on radar! The flares won't matter from this angle!

Alfred: "Master Bruce, you must eject!"

I followed Alfred's advice and ejected from the Batmobile. I was able to clear out of the explosion's radius.

Alfred: "How many Batmobiles have been destroyed so far this year, sir?"

Batman: "No matter Alfred. I need to find the shooter. The trajectory of the second missile should lead me to him."

Alfred: "Oh, sir. I thought that you should know. Miss Gordon brought Tommy Elliot to a safehouses a few moments ago."

Barbara? Did she take down Hush on her own?

Batman: "Where is she now?"

-Avenger-

After that encounter I had with Barbara, I decided to go out on patrol. Gotham has been quiet in terms of petty crime, but I did find a couple of robbers in an alleyway trying to force their way inside a house.

Robber: "Damn masks!"

They had knifes. I seen a few muggers with knifes since I started out as Avenger. I'm guessing since it's an easy weapon to gain.

However, these men are too slow.

I ducked under the knife and I grab the attacker's arm, and I twisted it. Afterwards,
i kicked the back of the man's knee, forcing him to his knees.

The second man tried to charge at me, but I kicked the man's leg, forcing him to fall into his fellow robber. Their heads collided with each other, knocking them both out.

CLAP CLAP.

I heard slow clapping above me. I look up and I see Batgirl standing on the fire escape.

Batgirl: "Good job, Avenger."

Avenger: "What are you doing here, Batgirl?"

Batgirl: "Can we talk?"

I went up to the rooftop along with Batgirl.

Avenger: "What do you want?"

Batgirl: "Avenger. I know that you're not happy with my decision, but surely you should know the dangers of Hush going into prison. He could reveal all of Batman's secrets and that would not just affect me, but all of us. Even you."

I know that. Hush knows who we all are, so he can tell anyone. And everyone we know could be in danger.

Avenger: "But, still. What do you plan to do with him? You're gonna keep him locked there till he dies?"

Batgirl: "I don't know what Batman will do. Maybe he'll have to book Thomas Elliot into Arkham under a different name and under a steady dose of medication."

Avenger: "And that's okay with you? You, of all people, should know that this isn't the law. This is Batman's law. Putting himself in control of how justice works."

Batgirl: "Avenger... Riley. I know that you're a man who respects the law. Heck, your father and mine are police officers and you've saved my father twice now and I'm grateful. You should know by now that this is Gotham City and the law doesn't work here like you think. Maybe you should help us instead of fighting us."

Avenger: "Working? With Batman? Forget it."

Batgirl started to look annoyed, like she didn't understand.

Batgirl: "What is with you? Why do you hate Bruce so much?!"

Avenger: "Bruce? Bruce Wayne? You mean Batman, right?"

Batgirl: "I'm done talking in code, Riley."

Avenger: "I'm not talking about code, Barbara. Do you honestly think you know Bruce Wayne? Who he really is?"

Batgirl: "What are you talking about?"

Avenger: "To Bruce Wayne, the man 'Bruce' is a mask. To Bruce Wayne, he died. He died when he was eight years old along with Thomas and Martha Wayne in Crime Alley.
That was when Batman was born. And to Bruce Wayne, the man doesn't exist."

Batgirl: "Stop speaking in riddles! What do you mean?!"

Avenger: "Don't you get it, Barbara? If Bruce Wayne wanted to, he would forever be Batman. Because, to him, Bruce Wayne is not relevant to his own personal war on crime. He cares about his vendetta on criminals and that alone. He doesn't care about me or you, or anyone else. If a few soldiers like Nightwing or Red Robin,
or even Robin himself has to die, so be it."

Batgirl: "You don't know what you're talking about..."

Avenger: "Really? So a sane man would train a child whose parents were killed in a mob hit? A sane man would let his young son who hadn't reached puberty,
run around fighting men with knives and guns? As I said, he only cares about vengeance, not justice."

I had said enough to Barbara. She would never understand what I see in Batman.
That's what Batman does. His legend corrupts people. It makes them see what they want to see.

I try to walk away, but Batgirl grabs my arm and stops me from leaving.

Batgirl: "You think you have the right to judge Bruce, when you're doing the same thing he's doing?! What gives you the right?!"

Barbara tried to punch me, but I block her and grab her arm. She tries with the other arm, but I block and restrain that one too.

Avenger: "If you asked me that a month ago, I wouldn't have denied it. I wanted vengeance against Winston Grace for his part in killing my dad. Half of me is glad he's dead, when the other half is disappointed that he wasn't brought to justice,
like my dad would have wanted. But, now... I'm no longer some agent of vengeance."

Batgirl: "With a name like Avenger, I wouldn't have guessed."

Batgirl tried to kick me between the legs, but I noticed it and I block her with my leg. I allow her to break free from my grip and she tries to jump kick me, but i grab her leg and toss her to the ground. I pin her arm to her back while she is down on the ground on her stomach.

Avenger: "The name Avenger isn't so I can become a judge, jury, or an executioner.
I kept the name because there is so much injustice in this world. People who have been wronged needs someone that can do things that others can't. The difference between me and Batman is that Batman believes he owns this city, when he is as much as a threat as someone like The Joker. Why do you think Chinatown is no longer standing right now? It's because of Batman."

I let Batgirl go and she stands up.

Avenger: "I'm not a part of your family and I never will be."

Batgirl walks to the edge of the rooftop and she shoots her grapple gun towards another rooftop.

Batgirl: "You want to be alone? Fine. But we all need help to defend this city.
Even Batman. Even you."

Batgirl then swings into the distance.

Avenger: "Says who?"

-Batman-

I followed the trajectory of the shooter that shot down the Batwing. It led me to an abandoned building complex.

I was standing outside the door of the room which the shooter was in. He'll be gone by now, but I can find some clues as to who he is and where he went.

I opened the door...

Harvey: "Hello, Batman."

Batman: "Dent?!"

It was Two-Face, but his face was restored...

Harvey: "We have things to discuss."

Chapter 3 End.