It's time for Batman: The Telltale Series. Now personally I really don't like point and click games because they are really boring to me but Batman Telltale has a really good story but not good game play. (*In my opinion. If you like point and click games, good for you.*) Now obviously there are going to be some major spoilers in the next 5 chapters from the gameplay. If you want to be surprised then go read Batman vs. Robin (My Version) or something different. For those who know what happens or don't care about spoilers then enjoy.
Disclaimer: I don't own Batman or Batman: The Telltale Series. (Duh) On we go!
"Hey kid, looks like you actually have a visitor today." A guard from the Gotham City Juvenile Detention Center told one of its occupants. The occupant was a young eight year old former circus performer named Dick Grayson. More than two weeks ago he had been living happily with his parents at Haly's Circus. Unfortunately that all changed when during one of their performances, the rope to their trapeze had broke and they had fallen to their deaths. It was then discovered when the police arrived that the rope had been cut. When asked about it, the young boy mentioned that he had heard a man talking to Mr. Haly earlier demanding protection money. Haly had refused and ordered him leave the grounds. He did so saying that he would regret not paying up. Now he was here in a detention center. Since Zucco was still at large, the police felt it wasn't safe for the boy to remain in the circus as he was a witness. A social worker had come and said that there wasn't enough room in the orphanages and instead would be taken to Gotham Detention Center. Now here he was two weeks later. To be honest he was a little surprised that someone was here for him. Who would want to see a young circus orphan?
"You hear me kid?! I said get out here! Move it!" The guard said and dragged him out the door. They walked down the hall and Dick was shoved into the meeting room. "Filthy gypsy." He mumbled but Dick still heard him. Looking up, he saw there were two men in the room waiting for him. One was an elderly man with glasses wearing a suit, and the other was wearing a white button up shirt with the sleeves rolled up and nice black pants and shoes. Once Dick was in the room, the dark haired man came over and kneeled to his level.
"Hello Richard. My name is Bruce Wayne."
"I know. You paid for mom and dad's…their funeral. I…I don't have any money to pay you back though." Dick said and looked at the guard nervously. Bruce could tell he was nervous but continued to talk to him.
"Hey don't worry about that. That's not why I'm here. I wanted to ask you something. You see when I was your age, I lost my parents too. They were gunned down after taking me to see a movie."
"I…I'm sorry."
"It's alright. It happened a long time ago and I wasn't sure I was able to ever come back. The pain is still there but I had some people around me to help. I want to offer you the same kind of help. If you want to I can take you away from here. You can come live with me."
"Y-you mean that Mr. Wayne?"
"I do. So what do you say? If you need a few days to think about it…" Bruce said and before he could finish, Dick was shaking his head. Then he nervously looked at the guard in fear. Bruce didn't fail to see the visible bruises all over his face. "I'm not forcing you. It's all up to you." He said holding out his hand trying another method to avoid Dick talking. He could tell the guard was scaring him and forcing him what to say the right words. After a few moments Dick took his hand and Bruce smiled at him.
"Great. Well then why don't you go get your things and we can get going."
"I get to leave today?!"
"You didn't think I would leave you here if you wanted to come did you?"Bruce said and Dick finally let of a quick smile before it faded. "What is it Richard?"
"I don't know where my stuff is Mr. Wayne."
"They didn't let you keep your belongings?" He asked and Dick shook his head no.
"All prisoner's belongings are confiscated before entering the facility." The guard explained.
"He's not a prisoner. He was sent here until they could find a nice home for him."
"He's a carnie. They're nothing but thieves."
"He's eight years old!" Bruce said getting up and starting to get mad.
"They start them out young so people won't suspect."
"Would you get his things so we can be on our way please?" Bruce asked crossing his arms now.
"Fine. He's your problem now." The guard said and finally left.
"I'm sorry about that Richard."
"S'okay."
"Now if you're going to be living with me I need to introduce you to someone." Bruce said and Alfred stepped forward. "Richard this is Alfred Pennyworth, my butler. He takes care of the house."
"Pleasure to meet you Master Richard." He said holding out his hand and Dick hesitantly shook it.
"Y-you can call me Dick Mr. Pennyworth."
"Just Alfred will do sir."
"Okay." Dick said and a few minutes later the guard came back and threw his stuff on the floor.
"There. Now remember he's your problem now so I don't want to see you come back and return 'im when you get tired of 'im."
"Don't worry. He won't be coming back here ever again."
Two months later
"You can't keep doing this Bruce." Alfred said to Bruce one night after he came back from patrol badly wounded. He had been shot by one of Lieutenant Gordon's men while trying to stop a new criminal named Catwoman from stealing a drive of some sort from City Hall.
"I have to…no one else will." Bruce said leaning against the fireplace mantle.
"Every drop of blood, everything you've sacrificed…the city's safer now. But it's made you a target. And people will keep you in the crosshairs until they've shot you out of the sky."
"That's the point. The criminals in this city…need something to fear."
"I know you're trying to create a myth, but be careful you don't turn into a monster."
"Sometimes…you need a monster."
"Not here you don't. There's a little boy who lives here now that needs a friend…not a monster."
"That's why I do it…I already failed him by allowing the same fate that happened to me happen to him because of criminals. I won't let him down again."
"I understand sir, but a myth can't be killed. You however are flesh and blood. Sooner or later he may put two and two together."
"I know. But I want to keep him out of this for as long as I can."
"Then step out of the shadows for one night and be Bruce Wayne; the lad's guardian."
"That's a much harder fight."
"Not when you have help." Alfred said while Bruce opened his study door to reveal his guests and banners for voting Harvey Dent into office. "Don't let tombstones be your family legacy."
"Well then…time to save the city." Bruce said when he spotted Dick looking very board. Then he and Alfred walked out to join the party.
"…thank you everyone. No please thank you. A humble District Attorney like myself isn't used to such a ringing endorsement. Even one who's cut Gotham's crime rate in half. For too long, this city has burned with corruption and greed under Mayor Hill's authority." The man of the hour Harvey Dent said with a glass in his hand. Meanwhile Bruce made his way over to Dick and put a hand on his shoulder. Dick turned over and gave a smile which Bruce returned and continued to listen to Harvey's speech.
"But I promise you that a vote for Harvey Dent is a vote to finally put your foot down. And together we can stamp out the fire and save our great city." He said and everyone started clapping. "Now if only Mr. Wayne, my campaign's largest contributor could have heard that applause he…well what do you know there he is; Fashionable and fashionably late as always. Say hi Bruce." Harvey continued as a spotlight shined on Bruce and Dick. Dick got a little nervous due to all the faces. True he had preformed for hundreds of people but he still was mourning over his parents and getting used to Bruce's lifestyle. Thankfully Bruce seemed to sense his nervousness.
"Hi Bruce." Bruce said and everyone started to chuckle and stopped focusing all on Dick.
"I see them up and he knocks them down. That's how Mr. Wayne and I do business" Harvey said chuckling. "I want to thank everyone here for their support and together we will change Gotham for the better." He said holding his glass up and everyone applauded once more. Once it died down, everyone started to enjoy themselves and Harvey came down to Bruce and Dick.
"Ah Mr. Wayne. Thank you for opening your home to us. Or I really should be saying thank you Bruce and Dick. After all, you live here too now."
"Yeah." Dick said shyly.
"I know this is the biggest mansion in all of Gotham but I don't think you got lost coming here. Where were you?!" Harvey whispered. "Look I know you like to do the "lying low" angle especially with Dick here now but the sooner we do this, the sooner they will leave you two alone."
"Relax Harvey I'm sorry. I had to take care of something important."
"Not as important as this. I know you despise these things, I do too." He said and whispered the last part to Dick which got him a smile again. "But seriously no one came here tonight to see me. They came to see the Bruce Wayne aren't I right?" Harvey asked and someone came up and offered some champagne to the two who accepted.
"Well I can see them fine right here."
"This shouldn't be painful. It's just a little face time with potential donors; your face exactly saying 'support Harvey Dent.' We're the grease, they're the wheels. And they're rolling in enough cash and votes to help make Gotham safe for families again."
"I would do anything for Gotham. It's my home."
"It's our home Bruce; all of ours. It's even this one's home. Speaking of which how are you settling in?" Harvey said rubbing Dick's head.
"Fine I guess."
"Good. You let me know if Bruce starts treating you bad alright?"
"Okay Harvey."
"Wait. You said Harvey and not Mr. Dent! Yes! We're making some serious progress with you! Now the only issue I have now is finding a decent slogan. I'm terrible at those. I always sound like a used car salesman."
"Alright alright, how about, 'Put a Dent in crime.'"
"Well look at you, that's not half bad. I'm gonna use that. But seriously I meant what I said. Together you and I can change Gotham; make it safe for families again."
"That's what I want too Harvey but you know how rough it is out there. I'm almost afraid for us to go anywhere downtown. In order to get where we want it to be we have to shake things up."
"Well let's start with a few hands shall we. Shall we?" Harvey said motioning the crowd.
"Why don't you go get a drink or something? If you're good I might just send you to bed early." Bruce told Dick winking at him. Dick nodded and went to where Alfred was helping serving drinks to the guest.
"How's he really doing?" Harvey asked now getting serious and started walking around the ballroom.
"He's talking a bit more about what happened. From what I've seen he's not as shy as he was when we first met."
"I still can't believe they sent him to the detention center; of all the places to send an orphan child. I'm so glad you got him out of there Bruce."
"With your help. I don't think I could have gotten him out so quickly without you talking to social services."
"It was the least I could do. Oh, Mr. Wayne I'd like to introduce you to…"
"Bob and Regina Zellerbach of course I know these two."Bruce said as they went over to talk to the couple.
"Hello Bruce!" Regina said happily.
"Regina here is the chairwoman of Wayne Enterprises and her husband…"
"Voted for Mayor Hill last time." Bob interrupted. "I'll be honest Mr. Wayne, I don't know Mr. Dent from a pothole on Main Street, but I trust your family. If you believe in Dent, then we believe in you."
"Old families like ours should flock together you know. Like birds." Regina said.
"You're preaching dear."
"No he's right. The Waynes' and Zellerbachs' are reminders of the golden age of Gotham."
"This city's luster faded years ago Mr. Dent. Look at Gotham now. Murder on the streets, corruption in City Hall, and that caped bat-freak dealing with those vigilantes like it's the old west."
"Oh Bobby there's always hope in the world."
"Forgive me for being blunt but one man can't save this city and it's a dangerous thought to think so."
"I have to agree with your wife Mr. Zellerbach. Even a spark of hope can light the darkness."
"Says the man with the large bank account. Thanks to Mr. Dent here, you'll probably be broke by election day."
"And I know Bruce would spend every penny he has to help fix this city. Just look what he's done with Richard Grayson. One minute an orphan child's sitting all alone in a juvenile detention center and the next is being cared for by a billionaire. I wouldn't doubt him for a moment. But even when I get to city hall, I won't be doing this alone. With Bruce's help, we're replacing the dangerously unsecure Arkham Asylum with a state of the art mental health security to help Gotham's most at risk individuals. It will even be dedicated to Thomas and Martha Wayne in hopes that their fate and the Graysons' will never be repeated."
"After all your parents did for this city…to be killed in a botched robbery in some alleyway. It was terrible."
"A tragedy like that at such a young age must have been crippling for you Mr. Wayne."
"Yes, thank you for your sympathy. I've moved on for the most part and one day I hope that Dick will too."
"Absolutely!" Mr. Zellerbach said and Bruce and Harvey said their goodbyes and moved on.
"Not saying I doubted you, but that went better than expected."
"You sound surprised. It's a night of ringing endorsements." Bruce said. That's when a burnet woman came over. She was wearing a pearl necklace with long, royal blue dress and matching earrings. She grabbed a glass of wine and went to shake hands with Harvey.
"Well hello there. Harvey Dent, Gotham's next mayor and eager to know you."
"Vicki Vale; not interested and reporter for the 'Gotham Gazette'."
"This is a private fundraiser Ms. Vale. No reporters allowed." This wasn't just for Harvey but some was because Dick was still getting use to Bruce's lifestyle. The public had known some details like his parent's death and Bruce taking him in, but they wanted to wait for further details to be released until after Harvey got elected so the election could be focused on and not around Dick.
"Well you don't mind if I say and ask a few questions do you Mr. Wayne?"
"Tonight is strictly off the record Ms. Vale. We can talk but nothing is written down."
"I'm okay with that. I just wanted to see what makes Bruce Wayne tick. This is quite the social event here Mr. Wayne."
"Ah, come on now, so formal, call me Bruce."
"Well Bruce, you've been going around pleasing everyone tonight. But how are you doing? You should at least enjoy your own party."
"Everyone loves the host—you're king for a day."
"Just today? I would have guessed Bruce Wayne feels that way all around. But I guess that's changed since Richard came along." She said making Bruce feel a little mad inside but didn't really show it. He knew this was a trick to get him to tell all about Dick but he didn't fall for it.
"He's not so bad. I take nights and weekends off and we just relax."
"I see. Oh Mr. Wayne, you've got something on your collar." She said trying to wipe it off but Bruce backed off knowing it was blood from earlier.
"Is that…blood?"
"Yes, just cut myself shaving."
"Pardon me sir but another guest has arrived." Alfred said coming over with Dick.
"I'm sure they'll find the bar."
"You may want to greet this one personally sir." He said. Bruce turned around to see someone who he never thought he'd see at his house.
"Carmine Falcone? Is the 'Dent' campaign having soliciting votes from Gotham's biggest crime family?"
"Falcone's never been convicted of anything except being a business man who loves this city." Harvey said. "Please excuse us Ms. Vale." He said and left after Bruce gave Alfred a signal to keep Dick away from Falcone or anyone asking questions and walked over to meet his guest.
"Harvey are you insane? Inviting a known criminal to your fundraiser doesn't really look good for your image."
"You let me worry about that. Just hear him out please."
"I don't like this one bit, but alright."
"I've been looking for a new house and I think I'll take this one." Falcone said to his men while Bruce and Harvey walked up.
"Let's talk privately, shall we?" Bruce asked.
"Hey I like this guy, wants to do business before we even introduce ourselves. Carmine Falcone, thank you for welcoming me into your home." He said holding out his hand to shake. Meanwhile everyone started looking at the two including Vicki. Bruce didn't make a move to shake his hand and pulled it back.
"Let's talk in my study." Bruce said guided the group to his study. Once they got there, Harvey was blocked from going in by one of Falcone's men.
"Hey what are you doing?"
"Private audience."
"Oh come on. Bruce?"
"You'll be fine out there Harvey."
"Harvey stays with us."
"Alright, but you are seen but not heard."
"Yes s…" Harvey said and Falcone glared at him. He then walked in at sat on the couch.
"So let's talk Mr. Wayne. Chalk this up." Falcone said throwing his the chalk for the pool cue but Bruce just threw it back.
"What ever happened to being a gracious host?" He said chalking it himself. "So imagine this white ball is me. And the others are all my businesses, restaurants, docks and so on." Falcone then hit the white ball and the other colored balls went all over the pool table. "I make them all move, and I want to keep things moving if Harvey gets elected. That's why I came here today; hoping to make a new friend. We're like family you and me."
"Yeah that's not happening." Bruce said crossing his arms.
"Hey this isn't the deal with the devil." Falcone suddenly slammed the pool cue on the table. "You listen to me kid cause he's the deal. You do what I say and I'll get Harvey into office. No one says no to me! Your father knew whose hand to shake…and which to break."
"Don't you dare talk about my father!"
"You're getting yourself all worked up over nothing." Suddenly the door opened and Alfred walked in.
"Pardon the interruption sir but your guests are leaving. I recommend seeing them out; you wouldn't want to be rude."
"Heed your butler's advice kid. Oh and you can keep the house. The owner's a prick and will get what's coming to him." Falcone said and walked out.
"Well that could have gone better." Harvey said.
"You just want to cheat to get into office? If the people wanted that they would just re-elect Hill. We need to do this the right way; give the people someone who won't lie to them and will be on their side." Bruce said coming out of his study with Harvey. They saw Dick standing by the door looking nervous. He seemed to be looking for Bruce as he was looking all around the room. Bruce and Harvey went over to join him.
"Hey you okay?" Bruce asked.
"Yeah. I don't think that man you were with likes me very much. He gave me a funny look."
"Did he now? Well you let me know if you ever see him again alright?"
"Okay."
Break*Break*Break
A few hours later Harvey had went home, Dick was tucked in bed fast asleep, and Bruce was down in the batcave.
"Wayne Manor has ten bedrooms, two kitchens, a library, a basketball court, a movie theater, two gymnasiums with one filled with trapeze equipment, and a child, yet I still find you here, in a dark cave."
"Well I can be myself here in the cave and I don't have to put on the billionaire playboy act."
"You seem like yourself when you're with the young master. Deny it all you want but that's not an act."
"It's not. I actually enjoy my time with Dick."
"As do I. Have you figured out what that…Catwoman tried to steal?"
"I'm in the process. There's a lot of files that still need to be decrypted."
"In the meantime I've brought you a snack. I assume you're going to be down here all night once again."
"More than likely. Thanks Al."Bruce then pulled up a video feed of Dick bedroom where he was sleeping and gave a deep sigh. "I hope he doesn't have any nightmares tonight. He's been here for two months and he still hasn't gotten a good night sleep yet."
"The same can be said for you sir."
"I don't need to sleep."
"You do if you want to function right."
"I'll be fine. I need to figure out who this Catwoman is." He said pulling up her file. "A few burglaries, break-ins; seems to lay low."
"You could learn a thing or two from her." Alfred said getting a look from Bruce.
"You can't step outside without ending up in the news."
"That's not the point. The criminals need to know Batman isn't hiding from anybody."
"I was talking about Bruce. I don't mean to bring up a dead argument but…"
"No one is gonna figure it out Al. Trust me."
"Except Master Dick. If you'd spend more time with him you'd realize how smart the lad is."
"Like I said earlier I know he's smart and I'll keep him out of this as long as I can."
"Just promise me you'll be careful. You're all that boy…and myself have in this world. I don't mean to worry so much but old men like me worry a lot. It's our gift and our curse." Alfred said and handed Bruce one of Harvey's business cards. On the back it said Park: 6am -Oz.
"I thought I saw Oz. It's been what? 20 years? I haven't seen him since grade school."
"Indeed, you two were thick as thieves, although Oswald took that literally." Alfred said and pulled up Oz's criminal record. "He claimed he wanted to catch up but his behavior after his family's collapse is a bit troubling. I'd advise you to be cautious."
"I'll be careful Alfred."
Break*Break*Break
6:00AM
Cobblepot Park
As the sun was starting to rise, Bruce made his way to the park when he got a text from Oz saying he was gonna be late and to meet him at the statue. 'Seriously Oz.' Bruce thought and went to the statue after giving a sick, homeless man some money.
"Watch. Wallet. Cash now!" Someone said behind him. Bruce turned around and saw two thugs, one of which had a knife.
"Sorry guys I got nothing." Bruce said.
"What?! End him now!" The one without the knife said.
"Gentlemen!" Another voice said.
"Oz?" Bruce whispered. Oz had the same short black hair as he did back then. He wore a white v-neck tank top with a black trench coat, black boots, and jeans. He was starting to grow a beard with some hair below his mouth.
"Get lost! This don't concern you twerp."
"You see, that's where you're mistaken. My old mate and I have some catching up to do." Oz said walking over. "And you're ruining the moment!" He shouted violently slammed one of the guy's head against his father's statue. Bruce was shocked by how violent Oz was; even if they were just trying to rob him. The one without the knife pulled out a gun and aimed it at Bruce's head. Oz came over and pushed him giving Bruce time to grab and disarm the gun. Then he kicked the robber in the stomach and once again slammed his head on the park bench. The two then got up and ran away.
"This is my park you hear that!? Mine!" Oz shouted at them then turned his attention to Bruce.
"Woo that was fun wasn't it Bruce?"
"Yeah and of all the times I've been here, I've never been mugged once. By the way thanks for the assist."
"What are old mates for? And I didn't bring you down here just for that honestly. I was back in town and wanted to see the boy I used to play with here. You know this park…it used to mean something. Mum and Dad put so much into this park."
"I know. It really is a shame."
"Says the person who got to live the good life while my family gets grounded to dust."
"I…I'm sorry Oz. No one should have to suffer like that."
"Thanks. You still are looking out for other people; though I was kinda surprised to see Carmine Falcone at your party last night."
"He was an uninvited guest. That's all. I never want to see him again."
"Now that we can agree on. Would love to see 'im hit the pavement. But things are gonna start changing around here Bruce; a revolutions of some sort and I'm letting it in through Gotham's doors. Which brings me to you."
"I'm not your enemy Oz."
"That remains to be seen doesn't it? We go back a long way and I'm warning you right now, when this thing starts, make sure you're on the right side." He said getting in Bruce's face. Then he started walking away. "Well I've got some rocks to collect. Cheerio." He said and walked away. That's when he got a text from Alfred.
Alfred: Press Conference in an hour. Car is waiting on south side of park and Master Dick ready for pick-up. You sure you want to bring him along?
Bruce: Have to. What would Social Services say if I just leave him with you all the time?
Alfred: Good point but I wouldn't mind in the slightest.
Break*Break*Break
"You ready for this?" Bruce asked almost an hour later.
"Guess so."
"You won't have to say anything for this one. It's about the hospital. Harvey and I will do all the talking."
"Okay." Dick said and they pulled up to the conference where people were getting up and already taking pictures. "Wow. That's a lot of people."
"Hey, I thought you were used to crowds."
"I am. It's just…" Dick started but couldn't finish.
"Has something been bothering you? I know I'm not your dad but you can talk to me or Alfred about anything that's troubling you. We have a lot in common you and I."
"No nothing's wrong. I guess I'm just still getting used to them being…gone and me not…there."
"I told you you're never ever going back there again." Bruce said putting his hand on Dick's shoulder.
"Yeah…thanks." Dick said giving him a small smile.
"Now let's knock them dead." He said and the two got out of the car. Quickly Dick took a deep breath and ran over to Bruce while the paparazzi were in full force. While they took plenty of pictures, they didn't come near them too much.
"Mr. Wayne!"
"Bruce over here!"
"Good Morning Everyone." Bruce said and he saw Harvey smile. "Morning Mr. Dent."
"Hey Bruce! Do you mind if we swap cars? I mean mine isn't fast and the paint is rusting off but she sure has style." Bruce said and the audience chuckled. "Now we didn't bring you here to discuss cars, we're here to change Gotham starting with Arkham Asylum. Ever since it's opened its doors…" Harvey said but Bruce didn't listen to the rest as he got a text from Alfred. He knew Alfred only texted him in an emergency when he was at a press conference.
Alfred: Need to talk
Bruce: What's up? At Press Conference
Alfred: Call me ASAP!
Bruce: Got it. Will do.
Bruce then quickly put his phone away when Harvey came over. "…and today, with this man and his sizable contribution, we will make a state of the art mental healthcare facility that will forever provide the wellbeing of Gotham, and its citizens. Now Mr. Wayne would like to say a few things. Bruce?"
"Thank you Harvey. My parents loved Gotham. They invested their blood, sweat and tears to make this city safe." Bruce then started having some flashbacks of that night. "You know when I was eight years old, my parents took me to see a movie about a hero in a mask. This hero stood up for injustice and defended his people no matter what. On that night…they were killed because they were trying to protect me from a man. A man who needed the kind of help this new facility will provide." Bruce stopped talking for a minute. The audience was getting very emotional and upset; some were even crying. Then he looked at Dick. His family had suffered the exact same fate which was more proof of why Gotham needed this facility. Dick looked at Bruce back and gave him a grin. "…and with the help of our next mayor, we will change Gotham for the better." The audience then started clapping. "Now I'm sure you all have some questions about the hospital so let's open it up." Everyone then started raising their hands. "You first Ms. Vale."
"Thank you. With the opening of this new facility, what does this mean for Arkham Asylum?"
"I think all Arkham has done is put our people in jeopardy and our city in chaos. We. Can do. Better!" Bruce shouted and called on the next person.
"Mr. Wayne, Julia Remone of the Tribune. My sources say you welcomed alleged crime boss Carmine Falcone into your home."
"He was just an unwelcomed guest. That's it. I don't make friends with gangsters."
"Please keep your questions on topic people. We're here about the hospital." Harvey said and Bruce suddenly got another text.
Alfred: Urgent! GCPD is here
Bruce's eyes got wide and quickly put his phone away.
"But Mr. Wayne, this morning the Globe received evidence of an off-shore bank account managed by Carmine Falcone and your father; Thomas Wayne. Care to comment?" Dick looked at Bruce confused and in shock.
"What exactly are you implying?"
"Transactions connected to organized crime going back years and even continuing to this day. Your family is directly connected to the mob."
"And did anyone else receive this 'evidence'?"
"The Globe, The Gazette, even the Daily Plant in Metropolis."
"Mr. Wayne! Mr. Wayne is all your money dirty?!"
"Is the Wayne legacy built on lies?"
"How long has your family dealing with Falcone?"
"I think you need to check your source; sounds like someone is putting their creative writing minor to work."
"Mr. Wayne!"
"Richard! How does it feel to live with a man connected to the mob?" Someone asked and Dick was taken back. Then the entire crowd stopped attacking Bruce and went to Dick instead.
"I…"
"Richard! Is Mr. Wayne using you to help him get money?"
"How was it living in a Juvenile Detention Center for two weeks?" The press kept overwhelming him with questions and Dick started crying.
"I'm sorry about this Bruce. I don't know where it's coming from. Damage control's my territory. Get Dick out of here and we'll talk to you later." Harvey said. Needing no other prompt, Bruce led Dick away from the crowd's view. Meanwhile his phone was starting to ring. Before answering it, Bruce stopped Dick and got on one knee while wiping some of his tears away. Then he put his hand on his shoulder while answering his phone.
"Bruce I've been trying to reach you! The police are inside the manor!
Break*Break*Break
Bruce and Dick quickly ran home to find the police everywhere looking in boxes, drawers, and every nook and cranny of the manor. Glass and paper were scattered everywhere and police officers were taking boxes of equipment.
"Hey! Careful! Put it back." Bruce said at one of the officers.
"I'm afraid we can't Mr. Wayne." A voice said. Coming down the steps was Lieutenant Gordon of the GCPD.
"Says who?" Bruce asked getting angry.
"This warrant." Gordon said handing Bruce the warrant.
"There's gotta be a mistake."
"That's what we're here to find out. Maybe we made a mistake; maybe you did." Gordon said. Bruce could tell right away that Gordon was extremely guilty for what he was forced to do but couldn't get out of it. That's when Alfred came down the steps.
"Alfred, keep an eye on them. Make sure they only take what they have to."
"Of course sir." Alfred said and began his observation. All of a sudden Dick gasped in fear and his eyes got wide. Then he sprinted up the steps towards his room.
Meanwhile Bruce went to his study to see what exactly the police were taking and looking at.
"I meant what I said about not personal Mr. Wayne. We just want files related to Wayne Enterprises. The warrant covers your place or should I say places you own and any companies you own."
"Just what exactly are you expecting to find?"
"That's what our analyses back at the precinct are trying to find out. I'm sorry but I can't go into details. Mayor Hill signed off on this warrant himself and I have to serve a valid warrant."
"The Mayor does happen to have a nasty habit of making his opposition uh, disappear from the picture."
"That's just rumors. But I promise you if Hill is involved in this somehow, I'll slap the cuffs on him myself."
"Thanks Lieutenant. I know you just have to do your job."
"Sometimes I wish I didn't. For your sake I pray you've got nothing to hide. We need a mayor like Mr. Dent to clean this city. He's one of the only few I ever trusted." Gordon said and started to walk away to do his job. Suddenly a crash was heard behind him. Bruce turned around and saw a cop walk out of the room with a large box that obviously knocked over a picture frame that had been on his desk. Slowly he went over to his nearly empty desk where papers were scattered everywhere as well as pieces of glass. Bruce then turned the picture frame around and he saw a picture of him and his parents when he was about two years old.
"Bruce! Stay back!"
"Take whatever you want!"
Boom! Boom!
"Bruce…Bruce?" Martha Wayne mumbled and took the last breath she'd ever take.
All of a sudden Bruce came back to reality and saw just how many papers were scattered around. One in particular was a file that had 'Richard Grayson' written on the label. He went over and saw all Social Services files relating to Dick. Quickly he gathered all the papers and put them back in the file. That's when he stopped to look at the last one buried underneath them all. Turning the paper around, he read the words quietly to himself.
'Gotham City Petition for Adoption'
Bruce had pulled up and started filling out forms to officially adopt him. Technically he was just the boy's guardian until Zucco was found and put on trial as Dick was an eye-witness. Once that happens, the state would take Dick back and put him up for foster care. More than likely that meant right back to the detention center. While Bruce wanted to find Zucco, he also didn't because it meant Dick would be put back there again. Knowing he promised Dick he'd never ever go back there, he along with Lucius and his layer Robert Lars had been working to possible get Bruce to legally adopt Dick or at least permanent guardianship.After he put the petition form back in the file, he heard crying from behind him. Bruce turned around and saw Dick kneeling on the floor crying as tears strolled down his cheek. He walked over to him and once Dick saw Bruce he cried even harder.
"They messed up everything Bruce. They almost threw my poster in the trash! It's all bent up now. Then they just tossed Mami's ring on the ground and it almost went into the air vent on the floor.
"I'm sorry Dick. The police have to do what Hill tells them to do even if this so called 'bank account' is just a made up story."
"Why are they taking everything?"
"I'm not sure buddy. But this will all be over soon. I can't tell you how many stories people have made up about me." Dick did nothing but nod his head. Bruce afterwards started to walk and inspect what else the police had taken when Dick stopped him.
"Bruce? You don't think…"
"What?" Bruce said turning around getting on one knee and put his hand on Dick's shoulder.
"Do you think…s-social services will come…and take me away?"
"Of course not. I told you, you have a home here with me and Alfred. We won't ever let them take you away from us; not without a fight."
"Bruce?" Another voice called out. Bruce turned around and saw someone he really didn't want to see right now; Vicki Vale.
"This is the second time you've come uninvited."
"Well it's hard to book a meeting with you."
"Dick why don't you go watch T.V or go play a game? I need to get some things in order here. And don't worry I'll make sure the police stay out of your stuff."
"OK Bruce." Dick said and did as he was told leaving Vickie and Bruce alone.
"Why are you here Ms. Vale? This isn't really the best time."
"Look Bruce. A scandal like this based upon a family like you're definitely is going to capture the public's attention. It's not going to be an easy road ahead but I can help you get the right kind of attention."
"What exactly do you want from me?"
"I don't want anything from you Bruce. All I want is the truth. All the sources that link your family to the mob are all not really reliable sources at all. None of it is hard proof."
"Yes but these kinds of stories don't just magically appear. Someone is coming after my family; after me."
"Then tell that to the people Bruce. Right here right now." Vicki said as she pulled out a recorder. "Tell everyone your side of the story." Bruce thought about it for a minute but then finally agreed. "Whenever you're ready Bruce."
"This whole story about my family is exactly that; a story. My parents loved Gotham and if they were still alive today, they would still be doing nothing but good for this city."
"Yes! That's exactly what the citizens of Gotham need to hear." Vicki said and Bruce proceeded to escort her out as Alfred opened the door.
"You're gonna beat this Bruce; believe me."
"Goodbye Ms. Vale." He said and Alfred shut the door after she walked out.
"I hate to admit it but a storm is brewing in Gotham. This doesn't look good at all sir; for any of us. And on the anniversary of your parents…"
"This can't be a coincidence. Harvey's the district attorney, he should have told me this was coming!"
"Then find out why he didn't."
Break*Break*Break
Café Triste
5:30pm
Bruce had asked Harvey to meet him at Café Triste so they could talk about what happened. He saw Harvey reading the paper and drinking some coffee. He pulled out the warrant and slammed in on the table in front of Harvey. Harvey picked it up and read it.
"A warrant? What the hell is going on? Wait does this have something to do with what the reporters said this morning?"
"Yeah, someone's coming after me!"
"Shhh, let's not make another scene alright?" Harvey said. "That's the last thing either of us need right now." Bruce agreed and sat down with Harvey. "Mayor Hill authorized this?"
"Yeah, then the cops raid my house taking everything relating to Wayne Enterprises; computers, hard drives…"
"Oh son of a bit**." Harvey said rereading the warrant.
"You're the damn D.A Harvey you should have told me about this! Now I've got the police and these allegations about my family to worry about and Dick. As soon as social services hear about this they'll start investigating us."
"I know but I swear I had no idea about this! Goddamn it! You have to believe me Bruce. Hill has no right to issue search warrants without my okay."
"Alright, I believe you Harvey. Hill's trying to screw both of us with this."
"Then he's made two enemies."
"We've gotta fix this before social services decides to take Dick away. They'll just put him right back in a locked cell. I promised him he'd never go back there."
"And he's not. I'll try to do whatever I can, but I don't think I can make this investigation go away. If I get in the way Hill might turn this into a conflict of interest."
"Then I'll just do this myself. I've got plenty of resources I can use."
"No, we're in this together Bruce."
"Well hello Harvey." A female voice said.
"Hey you! I didn't know you were going to be here." Harvey said getting up and giving a friendly hug to the woman.
"I was in the neighborhood."
"Well I'm glad you did. Oh Bruce, this is Selina. She's a personal friend of mine who's new to town."
"I'm Bruce Wayne. It's a pleasure to meet you miss…"
"Kyle." She said and Bruce shook hands with her. The three then sat back down.
"So what brings you to Gotham Miss Kyle?" Bruce asked not failing to notice that she had a black right eye.
"Business. Unfortunately I haven't had the best of luck. I was mugged last night."
"Oh I'm sorry."
"It's fine. I'm just mad that that masked freak got away with all my stuff."
"Did you see what he looked like?"
"Enough to make an I.D. Though I doubt I'll see him again. At least I'm not the only one that's taken a beating; that press conference earlier; woof. I hope your boy wasn't hurt too much."
"He's fine. As for the conference we've got everything under control."
"Oh do you?" She asked and Bruce glared at Harvey.
"I'll take care of it. There's got to be someone in my office who knows what's going on. Excuse me for a second." Harvey said getting up and making a phone call leaving Bruce and Selina alone. The two just glared at each other once Harvey was out of range.
"Nice to meet the real you." Selina finally said.
"Likewise." He said still glaring at her.
"Don't worry. I'm not gonna expose you; not yet anyway. Though I do believe you've got something of mine, and I want back now."
"Sounds like it's something important. What's on the drive?"
"Who knows?"
"You don't even know what you've stolen?"
"It's not my business to know. I don't even know who my clients are; they don't know who I am."
"But you know who I am." Bruce fired back.
"Look, these people I work with don't screw around. If they find out I lost the drive a lot more is going to be lost then money."
"Well looks like you've made your bed."
"No. We've made this bed and I'm not going to lie in it alone. You owe me."
"Alright. So I'll help you out."
"You can start by giving me the drive."
"Not gonna happen." Bruce said and Selina sighed.
"Look, I don't have a lot of time. My employer is expecting me to deliver it."
"Where?"
"Just give me the drive."
"Address. Now!"
"No!"
"You've got to trust me on this one."
"I don't do trust. But I guess either way I'm screwed." She said and gave the address to him. "FYI my contact will be expecting a cat, not a bat."
"I think I can handle that. When exactly are you supposed to meet him?"
"About fifteen minutes ago." She said and that's when Harvey came back.
"I'm back. Everything okay?" He asked.
"That depends." Bruce said looking at Harvey.
"I've got my people working on it. We're going to get this all straightened out."
"Good. Sorry but I've got to go." Bruce said getting up.
"So soon? Why not stay for a drink?" Selina asked.
"Yeah Bruce why not?" Harvey asked.
"I've gotta get home. I promised Dick I'd be home in time for dinner. We've got a lot to talk discuss together."
"Alright. Tell him not to worry. I'm taking care of it." Harvey said.
"I will. It was nice meeting you Miss Kyle."
"You too." She said. "And don't forget to change into your other suit."
Break*Break*Break
Eastside Docks
6:44pm
"Sir this is the third time this week that you've canceled dinner with Master Dick. You can't keep doing this to him."
"I know. I'll make it up to him later. I'm at the docks right now. It's quiet here."
"Sounds like an ambush. Be careful." Alfred said and Batman jumped off the roof. He forced open the dock doors and saw a bunch of dead cop bodies scattered around.
"This wasn't just a hand-off. It was a massacre."
"Good lord. Who would do such a thing?"
"That's what I'm going to find out." Batman said and started examining the crime scene. There were scorch marks as well as dead remains, burned cops with bullets in their skull, phosphorus everywhere from a can that exploded, and a white rose. "The white rose is Falcone's calling card. Send the drones out. I want to know his every move."
"Excellent idea sir. Have you figured out what happened?"
"Yes. A theft was taking place here and the white rose meant that Falcone's planning something big. Cops came here to try and stop this theft and Falcone's men fired back killing them. After they were done, Falcone's men got what they wanted and escaped." That's when Batman heard a soft but noticeable sound. He used his grapple to hide in the shadows and see where his intruder was. He saw his hiding under a raised crate pretending to be dead. Batman jumped down and moved the crate. The intruder jumped up and tried to shoot Batman, but he dodged the shot and pushed him against the wall holding him by his throat causing him to lose his gun. Based on the way he was dressed and the gun he had, Batman guessed he was the one who had shot the cops.
"Unless you want to be included in this graveyard you're going to tell me what I want to know! Falcone! Why did he do it?!" Batman shouted at him.
"I ain't telling you jack!" The man said. Batman didn't like that answer so he slammed him against the wall. When that didn't work, he tied his arms and legs up and hung him upside-down.
"I'm not ever gonna break to you."
"No, but your bones will." Batman said as he picked up a metal pole.
"They weren't kidding. You really are a frikin animal."
"You have no idea. Shall I show you? You know you can bleed to death without spilling a single drop. It all happens on the inside." Batman said and the shooter started looking scared. "Now tell me the plan or I start swinging." When he still didn't talk, Batman hit the barrel that was close to him and the shooter screamed. "Talk!"
"Okay okay! That Catwoman…was supposed to hand over a drive, it had a container number we needed but she took off. So then we had to find it ourselves; container by container. Someone must of heard us…and called the cops. They told us no witnesses!"
"Why go to war with the GCPD!?"
"I don't know! Some kind of chemicals that Falcone wanted."
"What do the chemicals do?! Batman shouted.
"We just stole them; not ask questions." Batman then untied his wrists and grabbed the shooter's left arm and applied heavy pressure. The shooter continued to scream.
"I start there and continue to break until I have my answer."
"The…the chemical are some kind of explosive! Falcone said he was gonna use them somewhere. I dunno! That's all I know I swear!" The shooter said. That's when he heard Gordon come in. He dropped the man's arm and went to talk to him.
"Hey! Freeze! Hands in the air!" The female cop that was with Gordon said holding up her gun.
"Stand down Montoya. You want to tell me what the hell is going on here?! I get a call for backup and find half of my department dead!" Gordon shouted at Batman.
"Thank God you're here. He tried to kill me!" The shooter said still upside-down.
"Falcone was behind this."
"Falcone? I knew he was being too quiet lately."
"Falcone stole shipments of chemicals. Appears to be a weaponized nerve agent that causes people to go berserk. We need to shut this down before the people get a hold of it."
"I'll get a task force on it."
"You already have one." Batman said and left without another word.
Break*Break*Break
Batman pulled up into the cave and changed back into Bruce Wayne. Afterwards he went over to the computer and pulled up a live video feed of Dick. He was in the gym practicing some of his acrobatics.
"He was rather disappointed when you didn't show up for dinner tonight."
"I know. Him and I will go out sometime with Harvey and get ice cream to make up for it."
"He is a rather extraordinary child despite everything that's happened to him."
"When this is over and I send in the adoption request, things will be different."
"How much different?" Alfred asked and suddenly the computer finally completely decrypted the drive. Bruce went over ignoring Alfred's question and opened the drive's file.
"This is a complete manifest of Carmine Falcone's criminal organization."
"What in the world was Mayor Hill doing with something like this?" Alfred asked.
"This is an insurance policy. Hill could expose Falcone at any time if he didn't play along."
"That would explain why Hill's never made a move against him."
"This is exactly what we need Alfred. With this proof, we can finally take down Falcone's organization. We can start by giving it to the only person we can trust on the police force."
"Lieutenant Gordon."
Break*Break*Break
Gotham Bridge
8:15pm
Bruce handed over a manila envelope with all the information about Falcone. Gordon was shocked as he read the files.
"This…this is a silver bullet! And it's what's gonna put Falcone down for good. Now I don't even wanna know where you got this but just answer me this. Why give it to me?"
"Just take down Falcone and get him off the streets."
"You don't have to tell me twice. Thank you so much for this. But we have to make one thing clear. I can't be bought in any way. This isn't going to change the investigation on your family."
"That's not what this is about. I just want Falcone gone."
"You and me both." Suddenly Jim's phone started ringing. "Sorry, I gotta go. I came from a crime scene and haven't been home yet. Sometimes I think this whole city is a crime scene."
"This is the first step to making them safer."
"Thanks Bruce. Keep you and your ward's head high. If these allegations come back with nothing then all this will go away."
"Thank you lieutenant."
"Stick with Jim." He said and walked away. Bruce then picked up his phone and called Alfred.
"It's done."
"Excellent. The drones have also completed their search and located Falcone downtown at the Skyline Club. Though you aren't dressed for a party like that."Alfred said.
"Well I can always change in the car." Bruce said and pulled out a small switch and deep in the shadows was the black Bat-mobile waiting for him. Quickly Bruce got in and started making his way downtown.
"So you're at another late meeting sir?" Alfred asked and Bruce now Batman knowing he was talking about what Alfred was going to tell Dick why he wasn't there.
"No. I'm going downtown to try and fix this mess. He'll understand that better than a late meeting now."
"As you wish."
Break*Break*Break
Skyline Club
9:28 pm
Batman made it to the Skyline Club and after taking down Falcone's gunmen, came face to face with Falcone. Unfortunately he ran into his office and locked the door. Then he pulled out one of his large guns and started shooting. That didn't stop Batman as he just flew in from the window. Next Batman picked him up and threw him hard against the wall. Falcone was ready however and a large gun came from the ceiling and started firing. Batman fired back as one of his nearby drones sent small explosives into the room making a big hole in the wall leading to a fifty foot drop outside. Falcone was injured by the explosion and before he could grab his gun, Batman grabbed him by his neck and dragged him towards the hole.
"Answers! Now! Or I let go."
"You wouldn't dare." Falcone said and Batman hung him out the hole by his neck. "Alright! Okay!"
"Where are the chemicals?!"
"What?"
"The chemicals! I found your calling card at the docks."
"Why would I want to lead you here? Something's fishy about this whole thing because I. wasn't. At. The docks!" Falcone claimed. All of a sudden a helicopter came and shined a bright light on the two.
"Still wanna play games?" Bats asked after he slammed his forehead against Falcone's.
"Alright those chemicals at the docks? Yeah they're mine okay? But someone was trying to cut me out of the deal. I told you I didn't make the mess at the docks."
"Then who did?!"
"No. We're finished here." Falcone said and Batman threw Falcone backwards, tied up his hands, and hung him by a small pole from the broken wall from his tied up hands.
"Spill it Falcone!"
"It's…it's the Waynes'. They're the ones behind all this." Falcone said motioning to a picture on the floor. The picture had him, Mayor Hill, and Thomas and Martha Wayne sitting in the Wayne living room. "The Waynes' are the biggest crime bosses in Gotham." Falcone said and that's when the police arrived led by Montoya.
"Thanks for the assist. Now we only have to take you out. Open fire!" She said and the cops started firing at Batman who jumped out of the building leaving Falcone behind and his words echoing painfully in his mind.
Break*Break*Break
Wayne Living Room
10:02pm
Dick Grayson had snuck quietly downstairs to the living room and turned on the GCTV news with Jack Ryder talking.
"The Skyline Club is a place where most of Gotham's mafia hangs out, but tonight it was the area of a vicious fight between the notorious Batman and Gotham crime boss Carmine Falcone. Falcone was found dangling over a fifty story drop when police arrived." He said and a small picture of Batman and a dangling Falcone appeared beside him. "This crime boss has evaded Gotham police for years but today he was not so lucky as evidence released by GCPD Lieutenant James Gordon made is so Falcone is going to jail for a long, long time. And speaking of newly found evidence, this brings me to the story everyone is talking about; the Wayne family. Dick sat on the floor legs crossed and holding his knees for dear life. He knew exactly what was coming and grew more petrified as Jack continued.
"For generations, the big W on the Wayne Enterprises Tower was a reassuring sight. You knew that there was some hope and something pure in the heart of Gotham. But as Thomas and Martha Wayne's shining reputation has been called into questioning after an off-shore bank account was discovered connected to organized crime, we no longer have such a reassuring sight; and what's worst, it seems the apple hasn't fallen far from the tree. Gotham's 'greatest' son Bruce Wayne, seen here in the company of gangsters, could be just as crooked as his parents."
Dick hugged his knees as tight as he could, knowing exactly what was going to happening now. Social Services was watching this broadcast just like he was and any second was going to call the manor or come and take him away. He was going to lose his second home all over again going right back to where he was before Bruce saved him. Tears were starting to form in his eyes and refused to let them fall as he forced himself to listen more.
"Bruce Wayne fired back at this claim stating…'this whole story about my family is exactly that; a story. My parents loved Gotham and if they were still alive today, they would still be doing nothing but good for this city.'"
"In a world where the Waynes', the only spark of hope Gotham had are corrupted, who are we left to turn to? Who can we rely on? This supposed 'hero' Batman? All we can do is wait and see. In the mean time we'll keep you posted, but as far as Gotham is concerned, the Waynes' time in the sun…is ending."
Dick heard footsteps behind him and saw Alfred standing there looking guilty, ashamed, and shocked. Once he saw Alfred, Dick got up and ran for the grandfatherly butler. Alfred got on one knee and hugged Dick trying to shield him from Jack's words that were beginning to destroy this family. It killed him to see and hear this boy sob his little heart out. All he could do was hold him and rub his back and head. Suddenly they heard a door slam close. Bruce walked in angrily.
"Everything I've ever built was so that no more innocent people had to die! If Falcone is really telling the truth about my parents…THEN WHY THE HELL DID WE INVESTIGATE THIS?!" He screamed at Alfred. Alfred had let go of Dick and got up to face Bruce. Dick on the other hand was in the middle of the two. He was a little scared about Bruce yelling but all three were going through an emotional roller coaster right now.
"Master Bruce…" Alfred tried to say but Bruce cut him off.
"What have you been hiding from me?!" Bruce shouted but Alfred remained silent.
"ALFRED!"
And that concludes Batman Telltale episode 1 with Dickie. Now these episodes are going to take longer to upload because each episode is about two hours long and I have to write every detail about what is going on. Also as you can see, the plot is going to be a little different as there are multiple plots to follow. I'm either going to chose what I want, or edit it out all together and add in a new idea. I really hope you like this and will see you for episode 2.
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