Chapter 9: Family Reunion.

-Catwoman-

Dizzy... Head throbbing... Slight pain in my neck... Arms and legs bound to a table.

What happened? I was sneaking into Winston Grace's main office, and then I hacked into his computer so I could transfer his funds to my account, but then I was attacked from behind. I feel into a trap... Again.

Where am i? Looking around, the room looked like a surgery of some kind. Pictures on the walls of people, collages of people's faces. I remembered what I discovered when I hacked the account, who was behind all this.

?: "Trust that you slept well, Miss Kyle?"

A man entered the room.

Catwoman: "Hush?"

?: "Who are you talking about, Miss Kyle? Did the sufentanil affect your visual motions?"

The man who entered was an old man, wearing a lab coat and wearing a doctor's cap.

?: "I see that you're beginning to become alert again. No lasting effects from the drug, I see."

I started to see his face as he stepped closer... Winston Grace. He must have knocked me out with a surgical drug. He injected it into my neck when he attacked me.

Catwoman: "You know, I've imagined situations where I've been strapped to a bed before, but this isn't quite what I had in mind."

Winston: "Well, I apologise. But, you broke into my house."

Catwoman: "You had mine blown up."

Winston: "Oh, did I?"

Catwoman: "You own the police commissioner, and there were attacks at three locations around Gotham by the Anti-Vigilante Task Force."

Batman and his little helpers should be safe. They always get out of death-traps.

Winston: "And yet, you came after me. If I'm so dangerous, you shouldn't have come after here."

Catwoman: "Hmmm. I'm a dangerous woman, Winston."

Winston: "Not where I'm standing."

True, I was strapped to a table and I didn't know where I was. Maybe, Grace's basement. All rich people seem to have their hideaway in their basements.

Catwoman: "If you wanted me dead, you would have done it by now."

Winston: "Oh, I want you dead, but since I have you, this is a grand opportunity."

He took out another syringe from a table next to the one I am on now. There was a black substance in that syringe.

Winston: "You're wondering what this is. Just a little something for the pain."

I didn't know what he was going to inject into me this time, but there wasn't a doubt in my mind that I would be dead if he did.

Fortunately, I was able to slip my hand out of my restaurants.

Catwoman: "Keep it for yourself!"

I quickly slipped my hand out and punched Grace across the face. Since he's an old man, a light tap should keep him down for a bit, no need to crack his skull. I managed to get my foot free but, he grabbed me from behind again and tried to stick the needle into my face.

Winston: "Hold still, alley cat!"

He's stronger than an old man! He can't be as old as he looks!

I kicked him in the head with my free leg, this time a lot harder.

I quickly removed the other restraints and ran for the door, but Grace again dived at me and knocked me down. I had enough and starched him around the face and he went down, clutching his face.

Winston: "My face..."

I took this chance to run to the door.

Catwoman: "Sorry Grace, but this cat needs to prowl."

?: "Kitty needs to sleep."

I heard a girl's voice and then I felt something hard strike my face. A baseball bat maybe? But whatever it was, it knocked me down and I couldn't move a bit. My vision blurred as I saw the girl, Emma Grace, run over to Winston.

She took something from him and walked up to me. She crouched down beside me and injected me with that syringe.

Before I blacked out, the last thing I saw was Winston wrapping his face with bandages.

-Riley-

Lauren Winters and Vicki Vale. Miss Winters was the journalist that I ran into when this whole thing with Maria Mercedes began, I also recused her from the Russians once. Vicki Vale is likely the bravest reporter in Gotham, she is willing to find news in the worst of places.

Right now, both just came on my doorstep and came into my house.

Lauren: "Thanks, Mr Rivers. It's been a while since we last spoke."

Riley: "Yeah, you helped me a lot last time. You provided evidence against Sally Martini."

Lauren: "I'm sorry that it didn't turn out the way you wanted."

Lauren did provide me with evidence against Sally Martini's weapons trade operation,
however Sally was found dead in his prison cell, hung from his neck.

Riley: "It's fine. I know he would have been in prison if the case went to trial.
You really helped me, Miss Winters."

Lauren: "O-Oh. Thank you. Seriously."

Vicki: "I'm feeling an attraction between you two."

Riley: "Hello to you too, Miss Vale."

Lauren: "No, no. Mr Rivers is simply one of the good guys."

Riley: "Thanks, Miss Winters. I'll admit. It's getting more and more difficult to tell which lawyer has hidden agendas, especially with Maria Mercedes running the D.A's office."

It wouldn't be bad if I talk to Lauren and Vicki. If Grace owns the media, I at least know that these two are the good girls here. I know I can trust these two.

Vicki then took out a notepad.

Vicki: "What do you know about her, Mr Rivers?"

Riley: "I know that she's not who she says she is."

Lauren: "What do you mean?"

Riley: "Her name. She's not even called Maria Mercedes. Her real name is Fish Mooney, she worked with Winston Grace before she became District Attorney."

Vicki: "How do you know all this?"

Vicki was writing this down as I spoke.

Riley: "I have someone looking into it. Ever since the Sal Martini case, I knew that Mercedes was dirty. I found out about her name from..."

I spoke myself into a hole there... I can't mention Kieran or Mom. I can't involve them more than necessary. What should I say here?

Vicki: "Who?"

Riley: "You won't believe me."

Lauren: "Trust us, we'll believe you."

Riley: "The Avenger."

When I said that, one of Vicki Vale's eyebrows lifted up and Lauren was surprised.

Riley: "He came to me a few nights ago after Gordon's arrest. He spoke to me about Maria Mercedes and confirmed my suspicions. He mentioned about that Harvey Bullock and Fish met at a nightclub and spoke. Winston Grace was mentioned,
so they may all be working together."

Vicki: "Did he mention any sources?"

Riley: "No. That's why I haven't made an official statement. There's no one or nothing that can back up my evidence. The police and legal departments seem to be removing any evidence anyway."

Lauren: "Our story about Grace illegally evicting tenants from their building in the East End and then GCPD setting a trap for Red Robin was refused by our editor. I think that Grace has also got someone in the Gazette as well."

The GCPD, the D.A's office, and now the media. Grace owns it all and therefore owns Gotham.

Lauren: "How can you stop someone who has that much power?"

Riley: "First, we need Gordon out of Blackgate. I'm gonna be his defence attorney."

Vicki: "Knowing that Fish could be in Grace's pocket?"

Riley: "If we're gonna save this city, then we need Gordon out of Blackgate.
But, there is a problem."

I took the invitation that I was given earlier by Emma Grace and placed it on the table in front of me.

Riley: "Emma Grace gave this to me. She wants me to attend a gala that the Grace family is holding."

Vicki: "But, it's a trap."

Riley: "Of course it is. But, I have to go. I may find something that'll help us."

Lauren then looked at the invite letter and read it closely.

Lauren: "It says that you can attend the party with someone. Wait a minute..."

Vicki: "No, no, no. You aren't going to walk in there by yourself."

Lauren: "I won't. I'll be walking in with Mr Rivers. If it's a trap, it's dangerous to go alone. At least this way, I may be able to help."

Riley: "If it's a trap, then we could be in trouble if something goes wrong."

Lauren: "Come on! Let me help! You owe me for helping you out, I'm calling that in."

Riley: "... Fine. I guess you can come."

Vicki: "Lauren, are you sure about this?"

Lauren: "Yes, Miss Vale. I'm sure I can help somehow."

Honestly, I don't want Lauren to be in danger, but it would be better if I didn't go alone to the Grace gala.

OPEN.

The door opened and Mom walked in.

Kerry: "Riley, how's Kir..."

Mom looked around at Vicki Vale and Lauren. When she saw Lauren, who looked terrified,
her face turned bitter.

Kerry: "Why the hell is she in my house? Riley, what's the actual hell is going on?"

Mom has a tendency to overreact to situations that she doesn't understand so if I explain it to her, she'll understand.

Riley: "Mom, you know Lauren Winters. Vicki Vale is the reporter for the Gotham Gazette."

Kerry: "Why are they here? Especially this one!"

Mom pointed at Lauren.

Riley: "Mom, I know how you feel about Miss Winters, but we're discussing something else. She's not here about us."

Kerry: "I don't want people in my house, Riley. Get out, the both of you."

Lauren stood up and quickly went to the door.

Lauren: "I'm sorry, Miss Rivers. Miss Vale, we should go."

Lauren left the house and Miss Vale, with a sigh, stood up.

Vicki: "Have a good evening, Mr Rivers. Miss Rivers."

Vicki then left the house.

Mom then sat down across from me.

Kerry: "Riley, what the hell were those two doing?"

Riley: "They were here to ask me about Maria Mercedes and my knowledge of her corruption charges."

Kerry: "But, to let them into the house?! Especially with Kieran upstairs whose been hurt. What if they found him?"

Riley: "I had it handled."

Kerry: "Well don't. Don't just invite people into this house again."

Mom then stood up and went upstairs. Mom can be defensive around the house. She won't even let her own friends in if it's even a bit untidy.
But, she hates strangers.

I'll respect her wishes. Besides, I need to visit James Gordon before tomorrow night anyway.

Kerry: "Riley?! Where's Kieran gone?!"

Huh?!

I ran upstairs and joined Mom in the guest bedroom. Kieran was gone.

-Kieran-

Luckily, Kerry hasn't gotten rid of Michael's clothes yet. He had some shirts in my size, I couldn't go out in my last shirts since they were covered in blood.

I couldn't stay any longer than needed. Riley isn't gonna listen to me...
Damn it, Michael! You should have taught Riley to stay alive than buy into that justice drivel.

All I wanted to do was go home and hug Rick and Charlotte. I'm sure that Charlotte is worried about me.

I just want to stay out of this whole thing. Fish Mooney is bad news and getting involved with her is probably just as dangerous as going against her. And I don't know who Winston Grace is, but I don't care.

This hasn't got a thing to do with me.

-Montoya-

Montoya: "Argh! Son of a!"

I was stitching a wound on my arm I got from jumping out of the window escaping from Black Mask.
I quickly took a swing of a drink I had ready on my desk.

I managed to evade Black Mask's gang and got back to my apartment. But, I really cut myself when I dived out of the window.

As I stitched up my arm, I was surfing the web trying to find something on Maria Mercedes. How is it that she was able to became District Attorney all of a sudden?
She appeared in Gotham not that long ago and was elected unopposed... No doubt the influence of some wealthy benefactor.

I know that Mercedes is working with Black Mask, but he can't have been able to change city leadership without being noticed, it would have to have been someone new.

I've been searching for hours and hours, but I haven't found a thing yet.

It took some time, but I did find Mercedes' name somewhere. She used to work for Winston Grace. Another philanthropist like Wayne who recently came into a lot of money.

She used to work in Gotham's Financial District where Grace started to gain some ground. If I go there, I'll find something.

-Batman-

After arriving back from West Africa after my meeting with Ra's and that new agent of his, Cassandra, I entered the Batcave and sat down at the Batcomputer.

Alfred: "Sir, how did it go in Africa?"

Batman: "Not good, Alfred. Ra's says that he has been planning his own attack on Gotham. He's building his army."

Alfred: "For a man such as that to be bidding his time at a time like this. The city may be in for dark times indeed."

Batman: "That's not all. He's been training another heir. I fought a teenager,
female, black hair.

Alfred: "More heirs, other than Master Damian? Normally the house of Al Ghul prefers males."

Batman: "Ra's says that he only has one half of his legacy. Ra's still needs a male heir. Her skills were on par with some of the world's deadliest fighters.
So this male heir may be someone that can best her in combat."

Alfred: "Do we know anyone like that? Master Damian has been rejected by the Al Ghuls, so it can't be him."

Batman: "I know. But, for now, I'll open a case file and investigate this later.
For now, I need to find Catwoman."

Alfred: "Why Miss Kyle, sir?"

Batman: "It's obvious that whoever is targeting the family is also after our allies too. I know Catwoman survived the attack on her apartment, but I know that she'll either go into hiding or get revenge."

Alfred: "I wouldn't recommend going out now, Master Bruce. The Anti-Vigilante Task Force is patrolling all over the city and the sun's nearly up."

Batman: "I know... I'll find her, Alfred."

Alfred: "I know you will, sir."

*The next day*

-Barbara-

I was waiting to visit dad inside Blackgate Prison. Today, Riley Rivers is meant to be visiting dad to discuss his defence. Honestly, I didn't know what to expect.

Avenger said that Rivers can be trusted and dad mentioned his dad, Michael Rivers,
being a good man. I trust my dad, but if Gotham's legal department is corrupt...
I don't see Rivers being on our side for too long.

"Barbara Gordon?"

One of the security guards came up to me.

Barbara: "Yes?"

"Follow me please."

I didn't know what was going on. I did sign my name on the register that I was visiting dad, so they should know.

I followed the guard into a interrogation room... My dad was there!

Barbara: "Dad!"

Gordon: "Barbara..."

He stood up, but he was handcuffed to the table. I hugged him as tightly as I could.

Barbara: "Dad! You're alright!"

Gordon: "Of course, I am. Your old man is tougher than he looks."

"Okay, enough of this. You shouldn't be hugging him, he's dangerous."

The security guard was trying to remove me from dad, but the door opened with a slam.

?: "Uncuff my client and leave."

A young man with dark skin and wearing a black suit and white tie, carrying a briefcase ordered the guard.

"Who are you?"

?: "Someone that'll have your job placed in the trash if you don't do what I've asked. Now, uncuff my client. Don't make me ask again."

The guard sneered at him, but he did uncuff my dad and he walked towards the man.

"I don't care if you're a lawyer or not, talk to me like that again and I'll kick your ass."

The guard then left.

?: "James Gordon."

Gordon: "Riley Rivers."

This was Riley Rivers? He looked so young to be an attorney. Dad did say that he passed Law School very quickly.

Rivers then went over to the corner and he picked up an extra chair and placed it next to dad, before going to the chair opposite dad.

Riley: "Mr Gordon. Miss Gordon. Please take a seat."

Rivers then sat down opposite me and dad. He placed his briefcase on the table and took out a folder.

Riley: "Okay, Mr Gordon. I wanted to remind you that whatever is said in this room.
May I ask if you prefer your daughter to be here or not?"

Barbara: "Hold on, if you were gonna ask that then why did you arrange it for me to be here?"

Riley: "I thought it would be better if you and Mr Gordon got to see each other without a glass wall in the way, but I have to mention confidentiality, Miss Gordon.
However, the choice is his."

Gordon: "... Wait outside, Barbara."

Barbara: "Dad?"

Gordon: "Please."

I didn't understand it for a moment. Why dad said for me to leave, but I respected what he wanted. It was his usual way of keeping me out of trouble.

-Riley-

Barbara left the room. I didn't want her to leave like this, but this is a business.

Gordon: "Thanks, Rivers. I don't want Barbara to get mixed up in this."

Riley: "That's fine, Mr Gordon. We're gonna get you out of here. By the book."

Gordon: "Did you consider the possibility that this isn't going to work, Riley? I'm aware of what's been happening to Gotham."

Riley: "And we're gonna beat this one step at a time."

Gordon: "You would have made your dad proud."

I pulled out a tape recorded from my suit pocket.

Riley: "Okay, can you tell me where you were on the following dates?"

-Third person-

Meanwhile, inside Blackgate Prison's security centre, two of the guards were dead. Two bodies were scattered across the floor in a puddle of red blood.

A man wearing glasses watches Barbara Gordon on the cameras.

?: "Hello, sis. Did you miss me?"

*Later that evening*

-Lauren-

I can't believe this... I'm so nervous. I'm like a schoolgirl. I'm wearing a fancy dress as if I was going to a high

This is pretty much a date between me and Riley... No, it isn't. It's just something that we're doing to try and bring down Grace. I mean, Riley is a nice guy and all, and he's a lawyer and he's got his life in order...

I dived onto the bed and buried my face in the pillow and started screaming!
What was I thinking?! I'm just going out with a friend, that's it!

KNOCK KNOCK.

Elise: "Lauren, are you okay? I can hear noises in there."

Lauren: "Ahh, it's fine, mom."

Elise: "Well, your friend's here. He said he'd wait for you outside."

Riley?! He's here? Already?

I looked out of the window and he was there waiting. He was wearing a black tuxedo. He was also carrying a small bag.

I quickly left my room, I didn't want to keep him waiting.

Elise: "Hey, Lauren. Is that the lawyer you were talking about?"

Lauren: "Yeah, he's a really great person. He's handling the Gordon case, I think."

Elise: "You mean James Gordon? The man who helped Batman killed the mayor."

Lauren: "Come on, mom. Mr Gordon didn't do such a thing. Riley will prove that."

Elise: "You haven't really had much faith in men, Lauren."

Lauren: "Riley's different. Besides, aren't you going out as well?"

Elise: "Not to a gala, but to a party."

Lauren: "Just don't stay out late."

Elise: "Hey, I should be saying that to you, Miss reporter."

I hugged my mom. She's the best. She's always taken care of me and she's put her life on hold. But, since I became a reporter, she has taken the chance to go out on the town.

Elise: "Have a good time, Lauren."

Lauren: "You too."

I opened the door and Riley was waiting there.

Riley: "Miss Winters. I love your dress, a nice black."

Lauren: "T-Thanks. Honestly, I just threw on something. I've never really worn a dress."

Riley: "I never worn a tux. This belonged to my dad."

Lauren: "It makes you look like a secret agent."

Riley: "We're doing something close to that, aren't we?"

I couldn't help, but giggle. And Riley just smiled.

Riley held out his hand.

Riley: "Shall we go, Miss Winters?"

Lauren: "Please, call me Lauren."

I took Riley's hand.

Riley: "Then call me Riley."

-James Gordon-

Blackgate Prison. A place where the worst in Gotham are placed. We do have Arkham Asylum, but that place never held anyone. I wish it would get shut down already.

But, now... Blackgate. GCPD. Legal department. All full of corruption and rot.

I'm here in prison because of a murder that neither me or Batman was involved with.

I watch from my jail cell as a familiar face walks past.

Penguin: "Oi, Gordon! Enjoying life on the other side of the law?"

Cobblepot surrounded by his cronies uses a key to open my cell door.

Penguin: "Are you ready, Commissioner?"

Gordon: "What do you want, Cobblepot?"

Penguin: "Everything. Batman dead. You as well."

Cobblepot's cronies then try to pin me against the wall of my cell, but I fight back.

I punch the thug several times, but no one helps him.

Penguin: "Hey! Good ol' Gordon's gone mental!"

With that, guards burst into the cell and start hitting me with batons. It hurt like hell, but not like Cobblepot's taunting as the guards dragged me away.

Penguin: "Good luck in solitary, Gordon. I doubt we'll see each other again."

What did he mean by that?

The guards then lock me in the solitary confinement cell. I'm thrown to the ground as they close the door.

?: "Hello. You finally found your way here."

I heard the last voice I thought I would never have heard again. I looked up and saw him.

?: "Hello, dad."

James Gordon Jr.

-Montoya-

After getting out of the taxi, I wound up outside of the Grace Enterprises building in Gotham's Financial District.

This is where Maria Mercedes worked. I should find out more here.

With that, I went inside the building. I went into the lobby and went up to the receptionist.

Montoya: "Excuse me."

"Yes? How may I help you?"

Montoya: "Could you tell me if a Maria Mercedes worked here?"

"Excuse me? Are you looking for the District Attorney's office?"

Montoya: "I understand that Maria Mercedes used to work here. I wanted to find out if she did or not."

The receptionist looked panicked and leant forward towards me.

"Look... You need to leave."

She looked around as if someone was listening.

"If you run now, they may not kill you."

Montoya: "Run? From what?"

"Just run!"

She screamed quietly as she went back to her usual smile and stood upright.

"Is that all I may help you with, miss?"

That was strange... I knew I wasn't gonna get much from her, so I decided to leave the building.

However, I noticed two guys in suits following me. One of them was on a radio.
It looked like I was gonna have some company.

I quickly walked into an alleyway. Too many civilians around for a possible firefight.

I then hid behind a pillar and I pulled out my gun. Watching the two men, now turned into five, entered the alleyway as well with guns out.

Five men all armed. Wide open alleyway. I'll be killed if I go out and start shooting,
and I need one of these people breathing.

As the armed men got closer, I managed to slowly hid against the pillar and moved with it as the men passed by. I then crept up on one of the guards and I took his gun and shot him in the leg.

BLAM BLAM BLAM!

However, the other four noticed me of course.

It was time to choose: a nasty fall or a bullet to the head. Needless to say,
i took the fall.

I dived through the air as I shot both my guns and bullets riddled the four men that were shooting at me. They all fell to the ground dead. I didn't know if these guys were criminals or not, but I knew that they were working for Maria Mercedes, that's the only excuse I needed to shoot.

I then pinned the guard that was left hugging his own wounded leg and I got on top of him.

Montoya: "What do you know about Maria Mercedes? Why did you attack me?"

"P-Please."

I started to hit the guy. Over and over.

Montoya: "Who is she really?! Tell me or I'll shoot you right now. I just killed four of your buddies. Think I'm bluffing?"

I placed a gun to the head of the guard.

Needless to say, he pissed himself.

-Riley-

A gala. Entertainment and dinner. It's like a prom but, for adults. I never really went to prom... Well, I did. But, not with someone. I went stag, so to speak.

Lauren: "Hey, just to ask, what's in the bag?"

Riley: "Nothing special. Just a folder of documents."

Right now I have a strawberry blonde haired girl, arm locked in mine, at a event.
Even though, It's host is a crime lord who has control over all of Gotham.

Lauren has really been nervous since we got here, it makes me wonder if she's been to prom herself. She looks my age.

When we got into the grand hall of the Grace Manor, we discovered a lot of people here. Senators, Politians, philanthropists. All of them... Except Bruce Wayne.
Normally he would be here at an event like this.

Lauren: "Look at all these people... I feel so tiny."

Riley: "We're not in the same class as these people, that's why."

Lauren: "I guess. But, I'm a reporter and you're this big shot lawyer."

Riley: "I wouldn't say big shot. I've only been practising law for a while now,
officially."

I escorted Lauren over to the table where there was a platter of food and desert. She took some bread and cheese from the table and elegantly ate, but it seemed forced as if she didn't want to look bad.

However, I wasn't hungry. I was busy looking out for Grace... Winston or Emma.

Lauren: "You should relax, Riley. It's not like Grace is gonna hold a gun to your head."

Riley: "You never know."

Lauren: "How did it go with Gordon? You mentioned on the way here that you visited him."

Riley: "Nothing much. I can't really discuss it too much, but I think I can build a sustainable defence. So long as Miss Mercedes doesn't have something to say about it."

Lauren: "Don't worry, you'll beat her. N-Not actually beat her, just figuratively."

Riley: "Haha. I get what you mean, Lauren."

I feel a bit calm with Lauren here. If I came alone, I think I would have panicked a bit wondering when...

?: "Ah, Riley Rivers. I'm glad you made it."

... Grace would show up. It wasn't Winston, it was Emma. In her white dress and her hair and makeup done.

Emma: "I see that you brought a friend with you. I'm Emma Grace, and you are?"

Lauren: "L-Lauren Winters."

Lauren was nervous. Can't blame her, she's staring into the eyes of a possible enemy.

Emma focused her attention on me.

Emma: "Mr Rivers, shall we continue our discussion as promised?"

The conversation we had about James Gordon... This was what I was expected when I took this trip. I didn't like leaving Lauren alone though.

Lauren: "Go on. I'll just stay by the table till you come back."

Lauren stayed near the table as I followed Emma away from the party and out of the grand hall.

Emma: "There we go. Now we can have a lovely chat, alone."

Riley: "What are we going to talk about alone?"

Emma: "Why, Mr Rivers, you tease. You know what we are going to talk about?"

Emma lead me into a bedroom and closed the door behind us.

Riley: "Why are we in a bedroom?"

Emma: "It's the only place we can talk where we'll be alone."

Riley: "What? Are you watched 24/7 or something like that?"

Emma: "Yes and no. My father is really protective with me. In fact, you're the first man I've brought into my room other than my father."

Riley: "What have I done to deserve this honour, Miss Grace?"

Emma: "Well, you're an honourable man. Fighting for the freedom of an old man who helped kill the city leadership."

Riley: "James Gordon is innocent, Miss Grace."

Emma: "I know he is."

She knows..?

Riley: "What? What do you mean by that?"

Emma: "It was Maria Mercedes who planted explosive in Mayor Hill's office, knowing that someone else was holding the detonator."

The District Attorney killed the mayor?! Wasn't Hill on Grace's payroll?

Riley: "Fish.?!"

I said Fish's out loud in shock, but I realised my error.

Emma looked at me with a very provocative smile. She approached me and placed her hands on my shoulders.

Emma: "Why darling, how did you know about Fish? It was a well guarded secret."

Riley: "The past doesn't stay buried. Especially when a man's freedom is at stake."

Emma: "Truthful, astute, and a firm desire for justice. You'll make a wonderful man."

Riley: "Stop the flattery, Miss Grace! Where's Winston anyway? Shouldn't he attend his own Gala?"

Emma: "After a quick stop, my father will arrive to announce some good news or something like that."

Riley: "So what happens now then?"

Emma: "Simple: Do a favour for me. Ensure that the criminal, Gordon, doesn't run free."

Riley: "What if I say no?"

Emma: "Nothing. But, we'll have to skip to phase 3."

Riley: "Phase 3?"

Emma: "It's a surprise, darling."

Emma then ran her fingers across my face and then removed herself from me and turned her back on me.

Emma: "You should go back to your date. She may be in a bit of trouble."

Lauren?! W-What happened?!

I quickly left the room and ran out through the corridor.

-Harper-

It's sometimes difficult to imagine having a normal life after you've seen something that isn't normal... Like a giant man-eating crocodile that almost killed you.

After Avenger saved me from Killer Croc, I got one of Batman's batboxs and I modified it. In such a way that got me access to the city's mainframe.

I found all I could on Maria Mercedes... Which wasn't much. There wasn't really anything about her. Not a birth certificate or a degree. She's not even quififed to be a lawyer, let alone a District Attorney... Civils isn't really my specialty. But, the file was encrypted so it has to be important. It's all on a memory stick in my coat pocket.

Right now, I was attending the Grace Gala at their large manor. My job was to monitor the lights and check that nothing screwy happens.

Normally this isn't my job, but I did find one interesting thing on the mainframe.

Apparently, Maria Mercedes was working for Winston Grace's company, but I once worked there during the time that Mercedes was supposed to be working there as an assistant to the old man, but I never saw her once.

Accepting this job gets me near the action and I get paid for it. Two birds, one stone.

?: "(Muffled) Help!"

In the electrical area behind the manor, three men in suits brought a strawberry blonde woman. One was dragging her while holding his hand over her mouth.

Harper: "Hey."

I didn't know what they were doing, but it didn't seem good.

Harper: "You can't be back here..."

As I said that, one of the suits pulls a gun out and aims it at me.

"Hey, the boss said we shouldn't use guns."

"Don't worry, this one's silenced."

That means no one's gonna hear the bang if he shoots that!

?: "Wait, don't. She hasn't got anything to do with this."

"No can do, we kill her and you. You've seen our faces."

As I see the man pulling the trigger...

Someone dives on the man and gun fires, but away from me and the strawberry blonde.

It was a dark-skinned male wearing a tuxedo.

?: "Riley!"

The other guards pull out guns, but don't fire as the man struggles with the one with silenced gun. If they fire, they'll alert everyone in the building!
With that, I quickly run up to one of the remaining two and I pulled out a Taser and stuck it into the stomach of one of them.

I was grabbed from behind by the second one however and he was trying to twist my head! But someone hit him across the head.

It was the strawberry blonde. Hit her over the head with a pipe.

Harper: "Ahh... Thanks Straw-Blonde."

?: "What? My name is Lauren."

As we spoke, the man disarmed the gunman and knocked him into the ground.
He pulled out the clip and broke the shaft of the gun.

Riley: "Lauren, are you okay?"

Lauren: "Yeah, I'm fine. These guys took me away from the party and dragged me here."

Riley then looked at me and for a moment seemed quiet.

Harper: "Why are you staring at me like that?"

Riley: "Sorry. Are you hurt, miss..."

Harper: "Just call me Harper."

Riley: "Okay, Harper. Are you hurt?"

Harper: "Not like these guys. You really did him in!"

Riley: "My dad was a cop. He taught me how to disarm people."

Harper: "And how to fight clearly."

Lauren: "I'm sorry, but I want to get out of here before they figure out that we didn't get the message."

Riley: "Good call. Harper, you should go too."

Harper: "I guess I can call the city electrician and say that I need to leave early."

Riley: "Do that. Lauren, let's go."

Riley and Lauren then left. That man looked familiar... I think I saw him from somewhere.

-Riley-

Harper Row, working at the Grace Gala... Why was she here in the first place.

Lauren: "What did Emma Grace say to you?"

Riley: "She told me that it was Fish that planted the device that was used to kill Mayor Hill."

Lauren: "Fish killed Hill?! Why?!"

Riley: "Maybe on Grace's orders. The plan was designed to frame Batman and have James Gordon removed from the GCPD."

Lauren: "But, why would Fish do it when Mayor Hill worked for Grace?"

So I was right! Grace did buy off Hamilton Hill.

Riley: "Do you have proof of that?"

Lauren: "I do."

Lauren then handed me a memory stick."

Lauren: "I snuck into Martini's mansion and found this. It confirms his connection to various criminal organisations."

Riley: "Didn't you try to get this onto the media waves?"

Lauren: "After Mayor Hill was killed, the evidence didn't seem to matter anymore to the Gazette. The editor, Mr Warren, refused to publish Miss Vale's story."

Warren. He may be working with Grace.

Riley: "Could I burrow this for a while? It might help me build a case against Fish."

Lauren: "Sure. I didn't know what I was going to do with this anyway."

Riley: "Glad you kept it. Let's get you home anyway."

-Batgirl-

Oh my god...

I got a distress call from Blackgate prison that a prison break was taking place and that all the prisoners on Dad's cell block was released, but I didn't know how bad it really was.

The prisoners managed to get access to the armoury and they were in a firefight with the prison guards.

Batman: "Batgirl, this is Batman. You're the closest to Blackgate, what's happening over there."

Batgirl: "God, Bruce... All the prisoners from my dad's wing were released and are running loose with weapons."

Batman: "Barbara, he'll be fine. I'm on my way now."

Batgirl: "I'm going in."

Batman: "Wait, Barb..."

I cut off my communications. I wasn't about to lose dad because I was waiting for Bruce.

I quickly used my grapnel gun to move towards Blackgate. Getting in was simple enough.
Guards and thugs were busy fighting each other, I did manage to make things easier for the prison guards by taking down some armed thugs along the way...

But I wanted to make sure my dad was safe. I was scared of losing my dad after he was sent to prison, and now... No, Barbara! Nothing is going happen to him!

After hacking into the prison log, I found out that dad was moved to solitary confinement... Thank god. At least he wasn't with anyone dangerous when he was moved.

However, I need to access the security centre to access the cell's cameras. The room was dark and I could smell a faint smell of bleach...

... When I turned on the cameras to the cell, chills went down my spine.

A face. Staring back at me through the camera. It wasn't my dad, it was someone else in the cell with him. A male with brown hair and glasses. I didn't need a photographic memory to recall this person.

James Gordon Jr. My very sick... Sick brother.

James Jr: "Batgirl. You accepted my invitation."

H-He knows I'm here? How? How did he know when he's inside the cell with dad? How did he even get in the cell?

James Jr: "I know you're confused right now, Batgirl. But, allow me to alleviate your confusion. Turn to your right, there will be a locker draw. Open it."

I don't know how he knows I'm here, but with my dad in the room with someone like my brother... If I don't do as he says, who knows what he'll do.

I did as he said and turned to the right, there was a locker there. As I stepped towards the locker, my boot stepped in something. It was a liquid... When I opened the locker, two bodies fell out of the locker!

I could hardly stand on my feet as the stench of rotting came to my nose and the realisation that the liquid I stepped in was blood. My brother...
That monster has my dad right now!

James Jr: "Now, that I have your full attention, I wanted to show you that me and my father have had a family reunion. You're welcome to join us, if you please."

Gordon: "James, please. Don't do this."

James Jr: "It's already been done."

With that, the door to the cell opened without me having to press a button.

He has control of the systems! I looked at the console and tried to figure out how he was doing it, but I couldn't find a sign that James tampered with the system.

I didn't have a choice. I was going to have to face James in order to save dad.

-Riley-

After I took Lauren back home, I went back to my house. I texted my mom and told her that I wasn't going to be back till later when in reality, I was at the computer at my desk at work.

I wanted to go through the files and find out about Hamilton Hill's connections on the memory drive that Lauren gave me. Maybe if I find some connection between Grace and Hill, I may find that missing link I'm looking for.

I skimmed through the details that I found, mainly because there wasn't anything of relevance to Grace. Branch numbers for a bank... But, I didn't understand the relevance. Maybe a transfer number that Sally had to use? I need solid evidence to link this to Grace and I need a lead to go after. I remembered the body at the morgue...

RING RING

My phone started to ring. When I checked and saw no caller ID, that was an immediate warning to me, but I was curious to know who was calling me.

Riley: "Hello?"

?: "Why, darling. You answered."

Riley: "Emma Grace?! How did you get my number?"

Emma: "I have my ways, darling."

Riley: "What do you want?"

Emma: "I wanted to let you know that your case won't be necessary anymore. That there's been a breakout at Blackgate."

Riley: "How do you know that?"

Emma: "A friend of father's just told me. I know that James Gordon is there and I wanted to let you know about something."

I might need to get my work clothes...

-Red Robin-

I was checking in on the safe house where I found the Yukuza where the new street drug, Black Sky, was being manufactured.

The Yukuza have been moving it in and out of the place. Media has definitely been brought off. There was another death due to the drug. Another body found in an alleyway on Chinatown. But, the body has just been dragged away by the Yukuza and taken to another location. Maybe dumped in the sewers. Recently, there were 11 bodies taken out of the sewers by the GCPD. Strangely enough, that was after what happened between Avenger and Jason.

All but one of the bodies have identified, but it made me wonder. The bodies were killed earlier than I thought, which means Black Sky has been on the streets for longer as well.

If the Yukuza are working for Grace, that means Grace may have had a hand in the Black Sky's development.

Someone in there may know if Grace is the man behind all this or not.

I started this all off easy... I managed to get into the house through a door on the side of the building on the 2nd floor.

"(Japanese) Keep on guard. Nothing must touch the Black Sky."

A few armed men guarding the crates, most likely the Black Sky.

It wasn't too hard to get into cover, but the Yukuza are known for being hard to sneak up on. Plus members of the Yukuza are known for having martial artists on their payroll.

I managed to take out one, but the others were waiting for me.

I quickly dived away as one of them shot at me.

"(Japanese) You fool! (English) Any stray bullets could damage the Black Sky."

That's good to know. They won't fire at me because they may damage the product.

With that in mind, I was able to take out the remaining men with my bo staff with some ease.

I left one awake so that I could interrogate him. I need to find out the supplier.

Red Robin: "Who supplies the Black Sky?!"

"(Japanese) Idiot (English) What makes you think I'll tell you anything."

Red Robin: "You're the one who shot at the product, aren't you? What's gonna happen when you tell your boss that you couldn't defend the product?"

BLAM!

A gunshot... Someone shot at me... No, at the man I was holding.

?: "That's what happens. (Japanese) Little bird."

The man I was holding was dead, I had to drop him and get into cover. The man has a automatic handgun in one hand and a Japanese style sword in the other.

Red Robin: "So who are you supposed to be?"

?: "You first."

The man was clearly of Japanese decent with black hair and red eyes.

?: "Not willing to talk? That's fine by me. You'll die regardless."

The man then approached where I was.

?: "You don't have a weapon, so I have nothing to fear from you."

If I run out now, he'll mow me down with his gun. If I get close and fight him head on, he's cut me to shreds with his sword.

So, I decided to push the crates down onto him. I did that, but he simply jumped over the crates and he cut the crates apart, causing a black mist to breeze over me!

That's the Black Sky! I can't breathe it in!..

But, I started to feel empowered. Stronger and faster.

I felt amazing... Did I breathe it in? No, I can't of.

BLAM BLAM BLAM!

I was being shot at by the man, but the bullets seemed... Slow.

I dodged each bullet and I got close to the man who swung his sword at me. He cut off my glider cape, but I managed to get close and knock him out, but my vision turned black.

-Third Person-

?: "I hope the Black Sky gives you some peace as you die. I don't want to know what Grace has in store for you."

Red Robin was lying in a pool of his own blood while the man was standing without any harm done to his person.
-Batman-

Batman: "Alfred, I'm enroute to Blackgate Prison. Have you managed to get ahold of Batgirl or Red Robin?"

Alfred: "I'm afraid not. Master Drake and Miss Gordon haven't responded."

Batman: "Batgirl shut down her communications, but Red Robin not responding?
That's different. Have you got ahold of Nightwing?"

Nightwing: "I'm here, Batman. I've been investigating into Black Mask the past few days. He's been quiet, more so than usual."

Batman: "He's sitting back and seeing how the events are going to unfold.
Dick, can you get to the prison and meet me there?"

Nightwing: "Already on my way."

Alfred: "Bruce..."

Alfred sounded like he has bad news. This tone from him doesn't happen often.

Batman: "Go ahead, Alfred."

Alfred: "There's just been a call-in to GCPD. It's Miss Kyle."

Batman: "Selina? What's happened?"

Alfred: "She's been found... In Crime alley."

No...

-Batgirl-

Breathe, Barbara. You can't help dad if you have a panic attack.

On the other side of this door, my brother is waiting with my dad. My brother, James, is a manic. A sick person and right now he has my dad.

James Jr: "I know you're out there, Batgirl. Please come in."

Gordon: "Don't!"

James Jr: "Now, dad... Don't scare our guest."

I went into the dark and isolated cell, only to see my dad sitting on his seat with my brother standing over him with a gun to his head.

Batgirl: "Get the gun away from him."

James Jr: "Now Batgirl, do you look like you're in any position to make demands. Right now, we're in the thick of this whole thing, elbow deep.
In the guts of it, you might say."

Batgirl: "What are you talking about?!"

James Jr: "So many things. I wanted this little family reunion of ours. Just me and dear old dad having some father-son time. I do have some catching up to do with dear old mom."

I feel like this is a nightmare that is only going to end one way... I don't know what else I can do. There's no way I can make a move or James is going to shoot my dad.

Batgirl: "What do you want?"

James Jr: "That's the right question. What do I want? I just want to be happy."

Batgirl: "Happy? How does this make you happy?!"

James Jr: "Everyone views me as a physcopath... And they're right. But, am I the only one? Dad helped the murder of a Mayor, mother ran away, and my sister...
Well, that's a given, right Batgirl?"

He knows... He knows.

James Jr: "Now, shall we?"

James pointed his gun towards me and he fired. The bullet hit me in the lower abdomen!

For a moment, I felt paralyzed. The pain of being shot that day. The last day I stood on my own feet for years.

Gordon: "James! What did you do?!"

Dad tried to disarm James and the two struggled for a bit, but James kicked dad away and aimed the gun back at me... This was it. My own brother was actually going to kill me...

However a stick object flew into the room and knocked the gun out of James'
hand.

A figure quickly ran into the room and dived towards James and knocked him down.

I struggled to get up on my feet to get my bearing, but I noticed the guy who was fighting my brother.

A-Avenger?

He hit James in the leg with his baton, but James managed to recover his gun.

James Jr: "I don't know who you are, but you interfered in something that you weren't a part of!"

James put the gun to Avenger's head, but he quickly disarmed James and flipped him onto the ground. He took the gun and broke it.

Avenger: "James Gordon Jr. Where's Black Mask?!"

Black Mask?

James Jr: "Why, what could you be talking about, Avenger?"

Avenger: "Don't give me that. Sionis gave you remote access to Blackgate's systems and helped you get inside the prison. He wanted to distract the GCPD who have surrounded this building. Where is he and why did he hire you?!"

James Jr: "You're talking as if I'm going to tell you in a fearful voice."

Avenger: "I swear..."

Dad went up behind Avenger and stopped him from punching James.

Gordon: "Don't."

Avenger then flipped James Jr onto the ground and handcuffed him.

James Jr: "Hand cuffs? Are you a cop or something like that?"

Avenger: "I borrowed some from a GCPD officer on the way in. I felt I needed them."

Avenger then came over to me and kneed down next to me.

Avenger: "Batgirl, are you okay?"

Batgirl: "I'm fine. What are you doing here?"

Avenger: "It's a long story."

Gordon: "Sionis sent you here, James?"

James Jr: "Black Mask gave me the tools I needed to secure this family reunion,
dad. That's how precious you are to me."

Gordon: "James... I wish I raised you better."

Dad was suffering and I could tell. James may be a sick psychopath, but he's still his son.

Avenger: "We should go."

Avenger held out his hand. I didn't know who he was, but he was a good guy.

I took his hand and he then walked out of the cell. I took one look back before I followed.

-Nightwing-

I couldn't find Barb on the outside of the prison. GCPD had surrounded the prison and the only prisoner that hasn't been accounted for is the Penguin.

I found Penguin outside the Prison on the docks.

Nefarious characters, check. Lack of brain cells, check. Okay, this will be fun.

Penguin: "What the bloody hell is going on 'ere?! Why isn't my boat ready yet?!"

"Sorry, Mr Cobblepot, but we don't have fuel for the boat. We had to smuggle it in without anyone getting wise."

Penguin: "And you couldn't think of anything else?! Bloody useless, the lot of you!"

"I'm sorry, Mr Cobblepot."

Nightwing: "Yeah, well you're gonna be."

I landed in front of Penguin's men. It's the same routine. Thug dives at me,
dodge. Thug gets up, hit with my sticks. I counter another thug's attack and knock him out. One by one, I took down Penguin's thugs till only Cobblepot was left.

Penguin: "Oh, sod off."

Nightwing: "Nice to see you too."

With that, I tied up Penguin and left him for the GCPD to collect.

Batgirl: "Nightwing, it's Batgirl."

Nightwing: "Batgirl! We've been trying to get ahold of you for hours! What happened?"

Batgirl: "We have someone that needs to talk to us."

Nightwing: "Who?"

Avenger: "... Hello, Nightwing."

Nightwing: "Oh, great. Vigilantes R'us."

Avenger: "Nice to hear from you too, Nightwing."

-Batman-

Selina...

Personally, I didn't want to believe it. I didn't want to believe any of it.

Alfred told me that in Crime Alley, Selina's body was found... She had been declared dead.

In the first few seconds of hearing that news, I forgot about everything going on.
The Prison Break, the conspiracy in Gotham, all of it.

I had to know for sure, I had to see her for myself.

I arrived at the Gotham Morgue and I entered quietly. I retained enough of my sense to remember that GCPD wouldn't just let me in.

I turned off my communicator so that nothing would disturb me.

As I entered the morgue, I looked around and I found a covered gunnery.

My heart began pounding, my face began sweating. I knew what this was... Fear.
That yet another person in my life was dead.

I slowly moved the sheet so that I could see the face of whoever was on the gunnery.

It was Selina.

My parents and Jason. The only two moments I could compare this too, yet it's different.

I've always been alone. Not because I wanted to, but because I needed to. This life I live, how can I live it without the closest people to me getting hurt.

I couldn't even barely stand up anymore.

?: "Lost yet another woman, Wayne?"

Batman: "What?!"

I turned around to see who the voice belonged to...

BLAM!

I was shot in the abdomen and I fell to the ground. As I got my bearing back,
i saw my attacker.

I-It can't be...

A familiar pendant was around his neck. The long coat. And the bandages over his head.

Batman: "Hush."

Hush holding the smoking gun in hand stood over me.

Hush: "Hello, Bruce."

Chapter 9 End.