Chapter 7: Following the trail.

-Batman-

After I escaped the Grace Manor with Catwoman, we look on as GCPD speed towards the scene.

Catwoman: "For someone who planned this as a trap, little Emma wasn't really good at it."

Batman: "She didn't want us caught. She wanted us on camera."

Selina looked at me with a confused expression.

Batman: "There were cameras all over the office. There's being powered on a separate grid so I couldn't turn them off like the city CCTV."

Catwoman: "Is that what you did when we were back in that alleyway?"

Selina leans up against me with her back and looks up at me.

Batman: "She wanted to give the police evidence that you and I may be working together. Grace wants to give the police a reason to arrest you, Selina."

Catwoman: "Oh, because I'm working with a killer, is that it? I know you didn't kill those people, Bruce."

Batman: "I need to find out who, before anyone gets hurts."

Catwoman: "What about this Avenger person? He one of yours?"

Batman: "No. He's been working solo against the Russians. But, he's going to get himself killed at this rate."

Catwoman: "I'm sure he can handle himself. Anyone crazy enough to take on the Russians, must be sure he can handle it."

Catwoman stops leaning on me and she walks to the edge of the building.

Batman: "You could be in trouble, Selina."

Catwoman: "I've found my way out of trouble before, Bruce. You should know that by now."

Catwoman then dives off the edge of the building.

Alfred: "Sir? Are you there? Your communication was turned off from your end."

Batman: "I'm here, Alfred. What's going on?"

Alfred: "Something has happened in Cape Carmine, sir. Avenger was following Master Todd."

That means Avenger knows who he is. How was he able to find Jason this quickly?

Batman: "What about Avenger and Jason?"

Alfred: "It seems like GCPD swarmed the area after a firefight was reported, but both men were nowhere to be found."

Batman: "Alfred. Pull up any information that we have on Emma Grace."

Alfred: "You mean the young lady of the Grace family? What is her involvement in this?"

Batman: "I find she may be more involved that she seems."

-Kieran-

It's been a few days since the city wide riots, and finally, we can get back to work.

My firm reopens tomorrow morning after the Police Commissioner has declared it safe to reopen businesses today. My law firm was one of the lucky ones. Other business buildings all over Gotham were destroyed and now more and more people are being layed off.

Not to mention, without a mayor to run things, we now have to rely on the city leadership like the Police Commissioner and the District Attorney to run things until we can elect a new mayor.

However, because of the fact that Gordon's trial is going to happen soon,
I have to review all the cases available on the databases and assign the cases to my fellow lawyers, it's very unlikely that any of my guys will be assigned the trial since you need state permission in this case. Gordon doesn't have a lawyer so he has the right to be assigned one.

As I walked towards the building however, a limo was parked outside...

As I enter the building and enter my office, someone was sitting at my desk.

?: "Oh, hello Kieran. How are you?"

It was Maria.

Kieran: "Ms Mercedes? Why are you here?"

Maria: "Can't I check in on my former assistant, both in legal and life?"

Kieran: "I'm not your assistant now. Not anymore."

Maria gets up out of her chair and walks over to the window on my left.

Maria: "The past isn't buried like that. Not that easily."

Kieran: "No it isn't. You're still the same as you were back then too."

Maria Mercedes. She's the more than meets the eye type. I knew she was corrupt even before I officially met her... Before I became hers.

But, I left that life behind. She didn't care one bit. She didn't want any man to tie her down anyway.

Maria: "I hope you're not getting soft."

Kieran: "What do you want, Fish?!"

Maria then walked up to me quickly and put her nails under my chin before smiling.

Maria: "There aren't many people that know me by that name. Keep it that way.
We had such a nice time together, Kieran, so I'll forgive you this once."

Kieran: "What do you want?"

Maria removed her nails from my chin and gave me a folder and a letter. Looking at it, it was..! The Gordon case! This letter was a court summons!

Maria: "Give this to Riley Rivers."

Give a case like this to Riley? But, he's only been practising law for less than a day officially! Not to mention, all the controversy surrounding this case...

Kieran: "Why would I give this to Riley?! He's not experienced enough for this case."

Maria: "Yet you gave him the case with Matthew Austin and looked what happened.
He turned an open and shut case into a win for him."

Kieran: "You're the prosecution, aren't you?! Why would you want Riley to take the case? And besides, it isn't my decision. He has to been appointed by the state to undertake a case this massive!"

Maria: "That's been taken care of. You have the summons. Young Rivers will become the attorney anyway, I just wanted you to give him the folder."

Looking at Maria made me angry, I didn't know what she was planning, but she wanted revenge against Riley for not ignoring the Sal Martini case and confronting her about it. I should have made a better effort to stop him and now Maria will hurt him for it.

Kieran: "You won't get away with this, Fish!"

Maria simply turns around and straches me in the face with her long, red nails.

Kieran: "Argh!"

My face started bleeding. There were big straches on my faces and blood was dripping on to my suit.

Maria: "Whose going to stop me, baby?"

Maria then left the office.

-Riley-

Finally, it was time to go to work. It was early in the morning, but I wanted to just put on my suit and go to work.

Since the riots, businesses have been closed down. So, there haven't been that many people in Gotham going to work. The city is in a state of terror right now. The anti-vigilante task force that Bullock commissioned has been patrolling the streets taking down anyone in a mask.

So far, I haven't heard a thing about Batman or the others.

Last night though with Jason Todd and Killer Croc. It seems like a lot is happening in Gotham and it's getting close to an explosive outcome. Winston Grace and Roman Sionis. Two crime lords fighting for control of Gotham's underworld. Harvey Bullock in control of Gotham's police department.
And Maria Mercedes in control of the legal department, and we don't have the sufficient evidence to remove her from her position as District Attorney.

So far, it seems like the worst people control Gotham and those that can do something to stop this are public enemy number 1.

As I get closer to Kieran's law firm, I see a limo parked up next the building.
I wondered who was there until I saw her...

Maria Mercedes! She walked out of the building and was led into the limo by a big man. The man who attacked me after I left the DA's office.

She got into the limo and drove away. I quickly ran into the building and looked for Kieran. He did say that he was coming here to review the cases. After the riots, so many people were filing charges and so many people were arrested, that this would be a good time for a lawyer to get some work.

I went into Kieran's office and found him. He was lying in a pool of his own blood!

Riley: "Kieran!"

I quickly went over to Kieran and looked over his face. Large cuts across his face.
As if he was attacked by a tiger... Or Tigress.

Kieran: "Riley... You need to get out of Gotham."

Kieran was still awake, but just barely. Mercedes must have done something to him.

Riley: "Don't talk for a moment. Let me call the ambulance."

Kieran quickly grabbed my arm.

Kieran: "No! Please!"

Kieran quickly passes out. He's going pale! He needs medical attention, but why doesn't he want to go to the hospital?

I then noticed a letter and a folder. The letter was addressed to me.

I opened it and it was a court summons! It was for the city of Gotham vs James Gordon and I was appointed the defence attorney!

Did Mercedes give this to Kieran to give to me? Why? Why would I be appointed the defence attorney? I've been practising law for only a little while now.

I can't answer that now. I need to take Kieran somewhere where he can be helped... I don't think 'she'll' like it though.

-Montoya-

I've been on many stakeouts before, but I haven't done one where the law isn't on my side. I've been suspended from the GCPD after I helped Batman escape from GCPD. Harvey has been drunk with power now that he's the new police Commissioner.

Something stinks about this whole thing. And Maria Mercedes stinks worse than anything.

Therefore, I've been following her across Gotham and here I am following her limo.

After Maria Mercedes' limousine pulled away from Kieran Troy's law firm, I started to follow in my car.

I find it hard to believe that a "busy" woman like the District Attorney is being driven around at this time at night. Especially when a case like James Gordon's is coming up.

This isn't the first law firm that she had been driven to as well. She's been to pretty much every law firm in Gotham.

Another thing that I noticed is that no lawyer goes against the D.A, mainly due to fear.
Why do they fear Maria Mercedes?

I followed the limo into one of Gotham's deserted streets. Where are you going, Mercedes?

-Maria-

The trial of James Gordon. Such an important time for lawyers. It's not everyday that a former Police Commissioner is tried for conspiracy to murder a city official and aiding and abetting a murder suspect.

So far, the plan is going according to our schedule. All the freaks are in Gotham and the city is under our complete control.

The only thing that needs to be dealt with is James Gordon's trial.

Riley Rivers has proven to be an issue after the Matthew Austin case. The effort made to frame Austin for that murder and make it seem like a cut-and-dry case,
all gone to hell because of a rookie attorney.

Rivers may become a problem just like his dear old dad. He'll need to be dealt with, on my terms this time. Getting him made the state-appointed attorney for Gordon should only be a phone call away.

He's still a child after all. He isn't a seasoned lawyer and no one will try his judgement, defending someone who aided in the death of a city official.

We still have a plan even if he does prove to be a problem. But, since all the city's lawyers are under my thumb, no one will argue with Rivers being the defence... I doubt anyone will defend Gordon anyway even without my 'persuasion'.

Driver: "Miss Mercedes. We're here."

Maria: "Thank you, honey."

The door of my limo was opened and Butch held out his hand to me. I took it and he helped me out of the car like a real gentleman.

Butch: "Fish, do you really think this is going to work?"

Maria: "Grace is old and unreliable. Somebody has to take over. It might as well be me."

I walked down the alleyway towards where the meeting was taking place.

Winston will be in for a surprise...

-Batgirl-

Do you ever get that feeling of when you have your first crush? I do even now.

Nightwing: "Come on, Batgirl! Keep up!"

Dick Grayson. Nightwing. Recently come back to Gotham from Bludhaven due to the recent events that have been happening.

Although, honestly I have had it with guys feeling like I need help... But,
my dad's freedom could be at stake, so I swallow my feelings right now.

We're doing what we've been doing for years. Leaping from rooftop to rooftop.

However, I always get an edge. I prove that as I manage to get ahead of Nightwing.

Batgirl: "Why don't you speed up?"

He grins. He always did like a challenge.

Batgirl: "So how much do we know about Ethan Sawyer?"

Ethan Sawyer is a name that I managed to beat out of a thug the night before.
Apparently, he's gained access to some new weaponry that was beyond what the Russians was selling before Avenger took them down.

Nightwing: "Apparently, he's a genius hacker that used to work for The Riddler.
But, ever since he was taken to Arkham, Ethan struck out on his own. Think he could be the guy who hacked Bruce's supply cache?"

Batgirl: "We'll find out."

We stopped on the ledge of a building over looking the nearby apartment building.

Nightwing: "According to the records, he lives in there. Apartment 228."

Batgirl: "Figures for a computer genius to spend his days locked in his room."

Nightwing: "What about you?"

His usual teasing nature... Never gets better.

Batgirl: "Let's go."

Nightwing: "Never could take a joke."

We both use our grapple guns to reach over the window of apartment 228.
Once we reach the window, we both position ourselves on both sides.

Nightwing: "Ready? On 3. 1..."

Seriously? I'm not waiting.

I smashed the window and quickly entered the apartment.

Nightwing: "Or~... Just start with 3 instead."

Nightwing quickly entered with me.

Ethan Sawyer was sitting at his computer, just typing away even though we had just broken into his apartment, he wasn't startled or anything.

Sawyer: "Ah, welcome. Batgirl and Nightwing."

Nightwing: "Hold on, you were expecting us?!"

Sawyer: "I was informed about your little rampages and my name was mentioned."

I looked on the table and I saw one of Batman's black boxes.

Sawyer: "Amazing, isn't it? I don't know where Batman went to get this tech, but I sold a king's ransom for it."

Nightwing went over to Ethan and placed a hand on his shoulder. He then pulled his chair down, forcing Ethan to fall to the floor.

Nightwing: "Who hired you to hack the boxes?"

Sawyer: "Why would I tell you?"

Nightwing smirked and pointed at me.

Nightwing: "Because, the lady will ask you. And trust me, you don't want the lady to ask you."

I then smirked as I cracked my knuckles. I was gonna make him talk... And I was going enjoy it.

-Red Robin-

Ever since the riots, I've been investigating into Winston Grace. He was just a normal guy. He just got rich out of nowhere and started a trading company.

If that's not suspicious, it's hard to know what is.

But, where did the money come from? It's classic detective work. Follow the money.

Recently, funds from Grace Enterprises went into renovating apartments in the East End. If Grace really is connected to what's going on in Gotham, then why would he renovate the apartments?

It couldn't hurt checking it out.

As I leave Robin's nest, I quickly and quietly scale the rooftops.

Ever since the Anti-Vigilante task force was introduced, it hasn't been safe to use the vehicles because we'd get spotted easier. So it's better to take the rooftops,
even though there are still patrol helicopters in the sky.

I arrive in the East End and already I can see people leaving their homes.

There have been a few murders recently in the East End, strangely enough, around the East End. Batman hasn't gotten around to this due to the gang war and GCPD are hunting for 'costumed freaks'. But, people who live in this apartment block have been evicted, even though usually the tenants can't be evicted without 30 days prior notice. That's the leasing agreement on this block.

What are they doing in there that they would break a legal document for?
In fact, how can they break the document without the police getting involved?

As I watched over the building, I saw a young, blonde-haired woman approach the building.

-Lauren-

After looking into Winston Grace, me and Miss Vale found out that there were evicted tenants in an apartment building on the East End.

Winston Grace hasn't been seen on television ever since he got his business up and running. Then again, he isn't like Bruce Wayne.

Sally Martini and Maria Mercedes. Both worked for Winston Grace. That can't be a coincidence when both ended up in positions of power all of a sudden and have had criminal connections.

Maybe if I look into this building business, I may find out more about Grace.

"Hey. What cha doing?"

That is... If I don't get killed first. A group of men approached me. Tattoos,
cigarettes, leather jackets and all.

The East End is infamous for being crime-ridden and underdeveloped. I shouldn't have really come alone on this one.

?: "Hey, guys."

M-Miss Vale?

She walked up to the men.

Vicki: "Vicki Vale, Gotham Gazette. How are you gentleman doing this evening?"

"You lost or something?"

Lauren: "Um... No. Let's just get outta here."

I tried to leave with Miss Vale, but one of the guys brought out a chain.

"Going somewhere?"

Great... Now, we're in trouble.

When the guy got close... He was knocked down.

"What was that?!"

Yeah, what was that?

In that instant, someone came down from above and started beating on the gang of guys. I knew that red costume with the bird like appearance. It was Red Robin, one of Batman's crew.

Lauren: "Did we find a story or what?"

Vicki: "We haven't found what we're looking for, Lauren? And why are you here?
You didn't wait for me."

Lauren: "I thought that you said it was too dangerous."

Vicki: "Yeah. To go alone."

Red Robin: "Are you two done?"

Red Robin finished beating down all the gang members and turned to us.

Red Robin: "Why are either of you here? This isn't the time to play reporter right now."

Vicki: "We're looking into this apartment building. People are getting evicted from this building illegally."

Lauren: "Yeah. And aren't supposed to be in hiding right now? The GCPD is tearing the city apart looking for you guys."

Red Robin: "Someone needs to find out what's going on."

Vicki: "And someone needs to tell the people."

Red Robin: "Fine. But, stay behind me."

Oh my god... Did we just team up with a vigilante? Doesn't that make us criminals?!
Ehh... What am I worried about?

Red Robin led us upstairs. The entire building seemed empty. Everyone was gone and the interior was almost torn apart. Not surprising since they just started renovation.

Vicki: "So, Red Robin. Do you have time to make a comment about recent events in Gotham?"

Ah, Miss Vale's inner reporter has awakened. She started questioning Red Robin.

Red Robin: "Not a good time, Miss Vale."

Vicki: "Red Robin. What about Batman? Did he or did he not kill Mayor Hill?"

Red Robin: "We all know that's a lie. Batman was framed for that."

Vicki: "Do you have proof?"

Red Robin: "That's what we're looking for now."

Lauren: "What about Avenger? Isn't he also in on this?"

Red Robin: "What do you know about him?"

Lauren: "You mean... You don't know him?"

I was a bit surprised, but after remembering Avenger's meeting with Batman at Sally Martini's warehouse, I shouldn't be.

Lauren: "I know that he took down the Russians. He was chasing after Sally Martini..."

I remembered that I still had the thumb drive that contained Sally Martini's connections to the Mayor... It might still come in handy after all, but I better hold onto it.

Red Robin: "I know that. But, Avenger is an unknown."

Red Robin says that as he heads into the room at the end of the corridor.

As we entered the room... It was empty.

Red Robin: "It can't be!"

Lauren: "What?! What's wrong?!"

Red Robin: "It's a trap."

-Batman-

Alfred: "Sir. I don't think it's safe for you to just walk into Arkham right now. Especially while everyone is wrongly accusing you of murder."

Batman: "Scarecrow is running loose in Arkham. I can't just ignore this."

There's been a breakout at Arkham Asylum. The staff recent sent out a distress call to GCPD that Johnathan Crane, The Scarecrow, had escaped confinement and managed to get ahold of his fear toxin. He's running loose in Arkham.

GCPD haven't responded to the call yet. It could be a trap, but allowing Scarecrow to run loose in Arkham is something that can't be ignored.

I'm right now driving in the Batmoblie towards Arkham Island. I have ways of reaching Arkham Island without being detected by the Anti-Vigilante Task Force.

After reaching Arkham, I enter the Arkham Manor. There wasn't any guards at all.
Scarecrow must have taken control of the guards outside as well.
There wasn't even any sign of GCPD coming here, even though they got the distress call.

They may be ignoring the problem because they knew I would come. They are waiting for me to deal with Scarecrow and then they'll come bursting in.

When I got into the halls of Arkham...

?: "Why hello there, bats! Come back home, have you?"

Joker. Scarecrow hasn't let any of Arkham's inmates out.

Joker: "Did you come by to deal with dear old Scarecrow? Guys seen better days,
ha!"

Batman: "Where is he, Joker?"

Joker: "Why, he's sneaking up behind you, of course."

I didn't turn around, because I knew Scarecrow wasn't there.

Joker: "Can't you take a joke?"

I continued on through Arkham's corridors, ignoring Joker. The last thing I need is him running loose. However, the air soon became thick...

Fear toxin! I can't move! All my motions have been frozen.

?: "Welcome to the madhouse, Batman."

The familiar voice of the Scarecrow entered my ears, as I tried to resist the effects of the toxin.

Scarecrow walked right out in front of me. He was surrounded by the Arkham staff. They were just following him like they were under mind control.

"Doctor. Do we need to prep the patient?"

Scarecrow: "Yes, quickly."

An injector in my belt... Contains antidote to toxin...

I managed to reach my belt and I injected myself with the antidote, but it'll take a moment to work. While that was going on, the Arkham staff took me into an operating room.

Scarecrow: "The fear centre of the brain is a fascinating subject, Batman. For someone who dresses like a bat and claims he isn't as crazy as those he locks away, you have one particular fear. Letting this city die."

The antidote was starting to kick in, I can almost move my fingers. Scarecrow prepares a scalpel.

Scarecrow: "This city has already died, Batman. And you didn't know it. Now,
you're the one who is the criminal. Don't worry, Dark Knight. You have nothing to be afraid of."

I was able to move again and I got up and punched Scarecrow.

Scarecrow: "I don't think so, Dark Knight!"

All of the staff then tried to burst into the room. I managed to pull out a gas mask from my belt and I turned on a tank of anaesthetic gas and caused it to leak.
Had to be careful, too much of the gas can be harmful, but it will knock out the staff without me having to harm them physically.

After the Arkham staff fell to the ground, I turned off the case and chased after Scarecrow.

-Riley-

Kerry: "Why did you have to bring him here?! Of all places?!"

Mom was tending to Kieran's wounds. Kieran was unconscious in the guest room upstairs.

Riley: "I didn't know where else to take him. He didn't want to go to the hospital."

Kerry: "And you listened to him?! Those straches on his face. How did he do that?"

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

I lied to mom. I didn't think she would understand if I told her outright.

Kerry: "Look. Kieran needs rest anyway. He lost a lot of blood by the looks of it. Rick and Charlotte will wonder where he is."

Mom put on her coat.

Kerry: "Do you want to come and see them with me, Riley?"

Riley: "Nah, I watch Kieran until he wakes up."

Kerry: "Suit yourself. I don't want anything to do with Kieran."

Riley: "Why is that? You said that you left Kieran shortly after Charlotte was born, but you didn't say why."

Kerry: "Riley... Kieran may be a 'nice' man now. But, he was sleeping around...
With a criminal none the less."

Riley: "Who?"

Kerry: "Dunno. Some woman called Fish Mooney."

Fish?! Maria Mercedes?! That would explain why Kieran is weary of her. Where did she get the name Maria Mercedes? I think there was something about it in the company files about a Fish Mooney...

Kerry: "Look, I'm going. Love you, Riley."

Riley: "Love you, mom."

Mom then left the house...

I think I know how I can hurt Maria Mercedes now. And how I can make sure she's thrown out of the DA's office.

KNOCK KNOCK.

A couple of knocks on the door? Did mom forget something? But, she should have her keys...

When I opened the door, there was a woman standing at the door. She was wearing a white suit and had blonde hair.

?: "Hello. Mr Rivers, is it?"

Who is this woman? How did she know who I am and where I live?

Riley: "Yes. Miss..."

?: "Grace, darling. Emma Grace."

Grace?! She's one of the Grace family? Actually I did hear that Winston had a daughter. So this is her.

Emma: "May I come in?"

Riley: "We have a guest upstairs, so please may I ask you to come in quietly?"

Normally, mom tells me that we can't let strangers into the house, but talking with Emma Grace could help me in some way.

I led Emma into the living room and she sat down. She's one of these rich types so I'll have to make her happy if I want her to talk.

Riley: "Do you want some tea?"

Emma: "No thanks. Although it was sweet of you to offer, I'm here on business."

Riley: "Business?"

Emma: "I understand that you were appointed Defence Attorney for James Gordon."

Riley: "May I ask how you know that? I only received the letter just 45 minutes ago."

Emma: "My family is starting to invest a lot of time and money into Gotham's market. We tend to find out these kind of things."

Likely because Maria Mercedes used to work for Grace. Funny how that works.

Riley: "Well, I am the defence for James Gordon. Why?"

Emma: "There's no point in defending James Gordon. It's a fruitless endeavour."

Riley: "I'm sorry you think that way, but Gordon is innocent until proven guilty. Until the jury says otherwise, I will defend Gordon."

Emma: "You're a man of conviction. Rare among men these days, but vain.
What if I offer some form of compensation if you decide to ignore this case?"

Riley: "I'm sorry, Miss Grace. Are you trying to bribe me?"

Emma: "Compensation, darling. You could support your mother and have plenty left over,
what do you say?"

Riley: "I must decline. This is a conflict of interest, Miss Grace."

Emma: "You must pardon me. I didn't mean to offend."

Grace, although she's still smiling, seems shocked. She hasn't met many people who have said no.

Riley: "I'm curious now. Do you meet with men like this all the time, Miss Grace?
You seem and look my age."

Emma: "I don't. I only have interest in those worth my time."

Riley: "And I'm worth your time?"

Emma then reaches into her blazer pocket and pulls out a letter.

Emma: "We should continue this discussion."

I take the letter and it looks like an invitation.

Emma: "Be sure to bring someone of your choosing. My father intend to announce a project at a party a few days from now. I do need a dance partner though...
Maybe you can be that partner."

A chance to get inside the Grace Manor! This should be a chance I can't pass up.

Riley: "I'll see you there."

Emma: "Pleased to have spoke with you, Mr Rivers. I know the way out."

Emma then left the house.

I think I should have a talk with the new Commissioner about Fish Mooney while I have the chance.

-Emma-

Riley Rivers has proven to be a tougher nut to crack than I thought. Because of Fish Mooney's actions, the whole plan could be ruined if somehow Gordon gets free.

Winning Rivers to my side is key at this point, but he's committed. That could be a problem.

It was then that my phone rang. It was my father. I quickly entered into my limo that was waiting outside and I answered the phone.

Winston: "Is the plan ready to commence?"

Inside the limo was a set of TVs that were hooked into the city's CCTV network. It was monitoring all our vigilante friends. Only Avenger is unaccounted for, but the plan needs to be executed now.

Emma: "Yes. Bullock has teams all over the city. All of our problems separated and vulnerable."

Winston: "Good. Now, I have more business to attend to. Give the order."

Emma: "Yes, father."

I quickly dialled the number to Bullock's personal phone.

-Bullock-

?: "Commissioner Bullock."

Bullock: "Who is this? You gave me the tip off that these vigilantes would be at those positions, but how do you know all this?"

?: "You know I work with the Grace family, so my word is reliable."

Bullock: "Fine. I'll give the order."

I put down the phone.

Working with Grace to save this city... Sometimes I think he'd rather destroy the city at this rate. We kicked people out of their homes in order to set all this up. But tonight should be worth it and then Gotham will be fixed up once and for all.

Gordon: "Harvey, what are you doing here?"

I called for Gordon to come to the interrogation room. Of all the supporters for the costumed freaks in this stinkin city, Gordon has always been the top supporter. Letting Batman do our work for us.

Bullock: "We need to talk, Gordon."

I sat down opposite Gordon and turned off the camera.

Bullock: "Why do you do it, Gordon?"

Gordon just stared at me. I knew him well enough to know that he knows what I'm talking about.

Bullock: "Batman and his costumed freak family. Doing our job and you don't even care."

Gordon: "Harvey, you've seen what we're up against on a daily basis.
It's a war out there and Batman is our best weapon. You know just as well as I do, that he had nothing to do with the Mayor's murder."

Bullock: "Do i, Gordon? Even if Batman didn't do it, even if this is some kind of plot against Batman, it's still a plot against him which led to the Mayor's death and then the death of hundreds in the city riot."

Gordon: "Just who are you working with, that's making all of this possible?"

Bullock: "The same people who want to take back this city from the freaks."

Gordon: "You sound a lot like a crime boss, Bullock."

I switched my radio on. I'm a cop, not a crime boss.

Bullock: "You sound like a killer, Gordon."

"Commissioner Bullock. We're in position. They're all there, just like you said."

Gordon: "Harvey? What's going on?"

I placed the radio up to my face.

Bullock: "Tonight, we take down all those vigilantes. Ready on my go."

Gordon: "Bullock! Don't do this!"

Bullock: "Take them down."

-Catwoman-

I walk into my apartment after a little bit of 'window shopping'. With the Anti-Vigilante Task Force running around chasing Batman, crime is making a steady rise.

I need to at least liberate some shiny jewels and diamonds, before someone decides to do it themselves.

I start to get dressed into my outfit.

At that moment, I start to hear sirens coming this way...

I look outside my window and I see SWAT vans arriving outside.

"Catwoman! You're under arrest! Surrender now or we will use force!"

Well, looks like these boys want to play.

I hear people rushing up the stairs.

-Batman-

Batman: "Crane? Crane!"

Scarecrow ran into area X in Arkham. Where all the equipment from all of Gotham's criminal go when they are locked up.

Scarecrow: "I can hear you clearly, Batman."

Scarecrow sounded like he was above me, so I looked up and there he was. He was falling towards me with a gas canister. It must contain his toxin.

I quickly moved out of the way and I kicked Scarecrow into a bunch of crates.

That's Scarecrow dealt with, now I better leave quickly. GCPD may be waiting for me.

"Halt! Batman!"

SWAT teams!? Already?! They must have been watching my every step.

They came from every direction. They sealed every exit.

The SWAT are wearing thermals. They knew I may use smoke and they came prepared.

"We've got him. We have Batman."

-Red Robin-

How didn't I see this coming?

Lauren: "You said that this was a trap? For who?"

Red Robin: "Me."

In that moment, the building was fired apon by GCPD outside.

If Grace has got the police in his pocket, then he must have set this whole thing up to draw out one of the family. And I took his bait.

Vicki: "Don't they know there could be people in this building?!"

Vicki Vale said that as we took cover from the outside gunfire.

Red Robin: "That's why they evicted everyone in the building. So that Grace could provide an elaborate excuse as to why GCPD blow this place to the ground."

Lauren: "And us with it?!"

Red Robin: "And us with it."

-Nightwing-

Barbara is in the next room, 'interrogating' Ethan Sawyer. She promised to play nice, but I'm listening in just in case she gets too angry.

Ever since, Gordon got put away by Bullock, Barbara has been tearing the city apart looking for answers. At least, we could have solid lead with Ethan.

Ethan: "Please stop! You're... Killing..."

I didn't like the sound of that. I quickly ran into the room and I find Batgirl choking Sawyer!

Nightwing: "Batgirl! Stop!"

I grab hold of Batgirl and pull her away from Sawyer!

Batgirl: "Let go of me!"

Batgirl head-butts me in the face, forcing me to let go. Babs always did hit hard. However, I never did take no for an answer.

I manage to get ahold of Barbara again, this time making sure that I hold on this time.

Nightwing: "Batgirl! You're better than this! Do you really want to kill him?!"

Barbara then started to calm down. She stopped struggling and just stopped.

Batgirl: "You can let me go now."

Nightwing: "Oh, sorry."

I let go of Batgirl.

Batgirl: "Look, Nightwing..."

Nightwing: "I know, Batgirl. And I accept your apology."

Sawyer: "Are you two finished?"

Sawyer was choking on his own blood. Geez, Babs. What did you do to him?

Sawyer: "I already sold the tech. It's not here."

Batgirl: "That isn't what I asked. Who hired you hack Batman's black box?"

Sawyer: "That was Black Mask. Someone told him where to find the cache and since the Riddler had been working on hacking Batman's codes, I simply finished the work he started."

Black Mask. Barbara told me that he was involved after Winston Grace took over the Gotham's crime families. That this information came from a new guy called Avenger.

Black Mask wants his empire back and he wants Batman and us out of the way.

Batgirl: "So it was Black Mask that killed Mayor Hill!"

Batgirl picked up Sawyer by his collar.

Batgirl: "You're gonna testify in front of the court."

Sawyer: "I'm afraid that won't happen... I alerted the AVTF when I learned you were on your way. I'm afraid you're gonna die..."

BLAM!

Sawyer: "H-Here..?"

Batgirl: "No!"

Someone from outside shot Sawyer through the ribcage. He's dead. And Barbara can't believe it.

More and more gunfire came from the opposite rooftops! GCPD was shooting at the building!

Nightwing: "Batgirl! Get down!"

I quickly took Barbara and forced her down to the ground and we both took cover.

Batgirl: "He's dead. He was my only chance to get my dad out of prison!"

Nightwing: "We'll find another way! As long as we don't die first!"

-Harper-

A lot of things are going on at once. The Narrows has become a bit safer since Avenger kicked the Russians' asses. But, still there are some people going around like they own this place.

I was getting dressed in my new outfit. An all black outfit with boots and a utility belt.

Cullen: "Harper! Now is not the time for superheroing! The police are going after vigilantes,
remember?! Can you listen this one time?!"

Harper: "No, Cullen. I can do something about this. I can help the Narrows out since the police don't come into the Narrows that often."

Cullen: "Are you even gonna listen to me?"

Harper: "About superheroing? Hell no."

Cullen: "Well, what are you even gonna do?"

Harper: "Well, take a look at this."

I went to my computer and Cullen followed me. We both looked at my computer.

Cullen: "Okay, so what am I looking at?"

Harper: "I noticed all the footage there is on Batman that is out there that has come from smartphones, cameras... The kinds of things where all you see is just a blur. So I thought I'd take a closer look."

Cullen: "Batman? Weren't you obsessed with Avenger?"

Harper: "Well, after Avenger said that he doesn't think Batman's a good guy, I wanted to look into Batman a little more."

Cullen: "Well, I think that Batman is a good guy and so is Avenger, but Harper, about you going out at night..."

Harper: "Just shut up and check this out. When I was working on the CCTV camera maintenance a while ago, my boss said that the idiots that set this up used the same passwords across all the different systems... And, well, I decided to take a peek."

Cullen: "Isn't that illegal?"

Harper: "Hush... Just watch."

I turned on the video. It showed two people, a would-be mugger and a woman. The feed went dead for a few seconds before coming back like nothing happened.

Cullen: "That is cool. I wonder how he does that."

Harper: "So did I..."

Cullen: "So what does this have to do with Avenger?"

Harper: "If I find out how Batman is doing that, maybe I can do it for Avenger."

Cullen: "Are you trying to impress him so that he'll train you."

Harper: "Maybe."

I then left through the window.

-Bullock-

A job well done if I do say so.

All the costumed freaks are being put away as we speak. SWAT team one confirmed that they have Batman in custody, but they haven't reported in since 8 minutes ago.

I was going to contact them in the Commissioner's office, but...

?: "Commissioner."

At the window, Avenger was standing there! I-I thought he was dead!

I pulled out my gun, but he threw his baton at my hand and knocked the gun out of my hand. He then kicked my legs out from underneath me and knocked me down.

Avenger: "I think we need to talk, Bullock."

Bullock: "What makes you think I want to talk to you?!"

He stood up and kicked me in the head. It made my consciousness black out for a moment.

When I woke back up, I was somewhere else. Outside? On a rooftop?

Avenger: "About time."

Avenger stood over me. I tried to reach up and punch him, but he blocked my hand easily.

Bullock: "What are you doing here?! Here to spring all your vigilante friends?"

Avenger: "What?"

He didn't know?

Bullock: "We have Batman in custody. And the others are likely swish cheese by now."

Avenger: "I doubt that. They know this city better than most people. I doubt that your SWAT team really has them."

Bullock: "You masks think you're better than the law, don't you!"

Avenger picks me up and slams me against the wall.

Avenger: "And you think because your boss, Grace, has money that you're above the law. I know about Fish Mooney."

He knows her last name too?!

Avenger: "I looked it up. Apparently, Kieran Troy handled a few of her court cases back when she allegedly worked for Carmine Falcone. She then changed her name and started working for Grace Enterprises until she suddenly became the District Attorney. No wonder the corruption charges became apparent."

Bullock: "How do you know all this?"

Avenger: "She attacked Kieran Troy earlier this evening, and she's apparently went to more than one law firm in the city. She's trying to fix the trial so that Gordon doesn't win."

Bullock: "Fish wouldn't do that. She may have had her past, but she's always been a woman of her word..."

Avenger: "Wake up, Bullock! She's been in Grace's pocket since the beginning and she controls the legal department in Gotham, do you really think she cares about going back on her word?"

Bullock: "It doesn't matter. Batman's in custody and the others are likely dead by now."

?: "Think again, Bullock."

That voice... I looked up to see Red Robin! But, how? Above me was Batgirl!
Next to her was Nightwing! And behind Avenger was Batman!

Batman: "Let him go, Avenger."

Avenger: "I told you it wouldn't happen."

Avenger let me go while I was surrounded by all these freaks! My radio was back in the office!

Bullock: "How did you?!"

Batman: "My suit has a heat signature concealer. The thermal goggles was a good idea, but even if they didn't work, I still had six ways out of the building."

Nightwing: "Yeah, and we didn't have a problem getting away from your ambushes either. Your guys should really make sure they know who you're shooting at."

Red Robin: "Two women were nearly killed tonight, Detective. Another was shot dead."

Batgirl: "Someone who could have cleared James Gordon. Because Batman never killed Mayor Hill."

Bullock: "So what? You guys have no problem crippling the 'bad guys'. You should have handed yourselves over and defended yourselves like everyone else."

Avenger: "Listen to yourself, Bullock! You spend all the GCPD's resources on this Anti-Vigilante Task Force. How many people died tonight because the GCPD was too busy fighting against people that put their lives on the line just like the GCPD?"

Batman: "Five stabbings, ten shootings, and reports of gang violence all over the city. All because, the officers you assigned to the task force left the other divisions short on manpower and unable to stop those deaths!"

All of that happened?! I was so focused on the capture of the masks, that I never heard about any of it!

Batman: "It was Black Mask who broke into my cache, using one of the Riddler's former employees to hack into my network. He then used the explosives to murder Mayor Hill to make it look like I killed those people. Black Mask is trying to retake control of Gotham's crime family from Winston Grace. A gang war is happening under your nose, Commissioner."

Avenger: "This city is going to hell because of your grab for power, Bullock Grace has taken this city and Roman Sionis is going to war with him. You may run the city now, but trust me that I will find a way to put the power back into the hands of those who will use it to defend this city. You want to make a difference, then do the right thing for a change... If you don't, then I'll take you down,
along with Fish Mooney and Winston Grace."

Batgirl: "Make that we. We'll have another little chat."

Bullock: "Are you threatening me, Bats?"

Batman: "Yes."

Batman then throws something to the ground and then smoke lifts up all over the area.

Batman: "We are."

I hear Batman's voice as they all disappear.

Damn those masks...

But, is what they're saying true? Have I let this city gone to hell?

-Montoya-

Mercedes finally stopped and was led out of the limo by some big hired muscle.

I parked somewhere out of sight and then followed on foot. I couldn't see a way nto the alley without beng spotted, so I climbed a fire escape to get onto the roof.

When I got onto the rooftop, I could see Mercedes enter a warehouse escorted by her big bodyguard.

I could see into the warehouse from here. Armed men in suits. I've got my gun just in case something goes wrong.

Okay, 'District Attorney', let's see what you're doing... Wait a moment...
Is that?!

I saw a man inside the warehouse wearing a sports suit and his face... I knew it anywhere!

-Black Mask-

Anger and humiliation... Three emotions that I was forced to endure thanks to Winston Grace. For me, who singlehandedly took control of Gotham's underworld. Only to lose it to an old upstart!

Today I take back my empire and I'll burn this city to the ground and build it up again.

All of Gotham's crime families are gathered here under one roof. They were a bit trigger happy to start with, but now these gonna listen.

Sionis: "Let's get to business. I will be taking control of the organise crime in Gotham. Anyone have a problem? Talk to the gun."

?: "What makes you think we're gonna work with you again?"

One of the Yukuza, wearing one of their exquisite kimonos walked up to me.

Sionis: "I'll give you a reason."

I took out my gun and I shot at him... But, in an instant, he pulled free a Japanese sword and the sound of metal ricocheting off metal could be heard.

?: "You underestimate me and the Yukuza."

There is always one crime family that disagrees when someone better than them tells them what to do. When that happens, you have to show your power.

?: "The Yukuza decline your invitation. Let's go, my brothers."

He and his fellow Yukuza tried to leave, but he found himself surrounded by my men.

Sionis: "You may want to stay."

?: "Traitor! Fool!"

He tried to pull out his sword, but my men aimed their guns at him.

Sionis: "Your sword against my guns. I know who wins here."

?: "It's clear what wins here, but who wins here, Roman?"

Fish Mooney... Grace's right hand woman and the District Attorney.

Maria: "You do know that you can't win here, Sionis. I control the legal department and we own the police. If you think this will work then you are gonna lose very quickly. We can toss you all in prison and the key will disappear."

Sionis: "What if we kill you now?"

I aim my gun at Fish. Her bodyguards then pulled out their own guns.

Maria: "You kill me then James Gordon walks from prison. He becomes the Commissioner again and Batman and his gang will once again control Gotham. You want to undo all the work that Grace has put into ridding Gotham of The Batman then go ahead and kill me."

As much as I hate Grace, I hate Batman even more... Maybe I can find a way to use Grace instead.

Sionis: "Why don't you work for me instead?"

Maria: "... What can you offer me?"

-Montoya-

I can't hear what's going on in there, but I can see it clearly.

Maria Mercedes shaking hands with Black Mask.

I need to go. Take this... Somewhere? Where do I go with this?

Legal department? Under Mercedes' control. Police? Harvey will never believe me? Gotham Gazette...

As I climbed down the fire escape...

"Whose up there?!"

I pulled out my gun and started firing. I bet now everyone in the warehouse knows I'm here now!

There were too many below me shooting at me, so I break a window and enter the building.

I run through the building, but some of the mobsters were climbing the stairs!
I was shooting them as I ran down the corridor!

"What am I paying your fools for?! Kill her!"

That was Black Mask! He was also shooting at me with dual handguns.

I quickly run towards the window and I jump out through it!

-Black Mask-

We watch as that woman jumped out of the window. She clearly saw what was going on in the warehouse, so she needs to die.

But, as I looked out of the window, she was nowhere to be seen.

Sionis: "Why didn't you kill her?"

"B-Black Mask, I tried!"

I aimed one of my guns at the man and shot him through the head.

Sionis: "Find her or you're next."

-Catwoman-

I watched as more and more police raided my apartment. Homeless once again, but I did save most of my loot that I carried in my bag.

I guess Batman had a point when he said that I would be in trouble.

First things first, I need another place to stay.

I wonder if Bruce will mind... No, I can't.

I'm alone in this.

I may just pay Winston Grace another visit.

Chapter 7 end.