Batman Reborn

Batman: Wanted
Dead Or Alive
Batman stood against a chimney, overseeing the parade below. It was
Election Day in Gotham for the sheriff position.
Bruce, would you tell me again why youre not in the parade? Tom
said.
Tom, whoever gets to be sheriff in town is on every single crooks kill
list. This means that I have to constantly save their butts. I might as well
start now, Batman said.
One of the top candidates, Braxton Hughes stood up to the podium on
a float.
Once again, I wish to thank every one of you for supporting me
through this great campaign. For those who didnt, boo you, he laughed.
Comedy just isnt a sheriffs strong point, Batman remarked.
I still say this is a waste of time. No one would dare try to kill him in
front of those security guards, Tom complained.
Now, I know youre probably tired of me giving speeches, but I just
want you to know that if you vote for me Ill clean the fifth of criminal stench
that has been polluting the city for decades. There will be an official curfew
to weed them out. Anyone out after 11:00 at night will be arrested in brought
in for questioning. My plan will decrease the crime wave rate to zero and
bring Gotham back to the once peaceful metropolis it once was, he began.
Once he was done with his speech, Dennis Dagger was brought to the
podium.
Those were fine words, Brax, but I still stand beside my Anti-Batman
campaign. I once again imply you to vote for me and I will extinguish this
public menace forever. The nocturnal knight Batman was actually increased

crime rates. Because of him, arch criminals have constantly destroyed our
city. Batman only cleans up his own messes, not ours. This so called Dark
Knight is so yellow that he cant even show us who he really is. Only an
escaped convict from Arkham would display such behavior. Batman is a
menace that must be stopped. He thinks that he can just talk to whoever he
wants to and get away with it. How many times has Batman burst in your
home and wrongly accused you of murder then just walk away? the man
said angrily. Several people raised their hands.
Ive save these people more times than some of them can count and
this is the thanks I get? Batman said.
Well Bruce, you dont get to be a hero for the gratitude. You just do it
because its right, Tom pointed out.
Yeah, but hes turning Gotham against me. If he gets elected, a
manhunt for me will start and people will start throwing rotten tomatoes at
me when I show up, Batman said.
I implore you to once again vote for me. Once you do, I will give the
order to eliminate Batman when the Gotham Police spots him, Dagger said.
With all due respect, Batman isnt really a public menace, Mr. Dennis.
Hes a good person. I cant recall as many times as hes saved my life. Sure,
he goes into matters that dont concern him, but he does that for the safety
of Gotham, Braxton pointed out.
Suddenly, a grenade was thrown into the float. The men jumped out of
the vehicle. It exploded. When the smoke cleared, a huge man walked
towards Braxton. He was covered with explosives all the way to the teeth.
Who are you? Braxton said.
Blackjack, I disagree with some of your political aims, Mr. Hughes,
the man smiled. Every single security guard jumped on the man trying to
force him down. One at a time, Blackjack grabbed each one and threw them
off him.
This should be interesting, Batman said, jumping down.
As you can see, youre not getting my vote, Blackjack said, drawing a
machine gun. A Batarang disarmed him. Batman kicked him away.
Youre not getting my vote for best looking either, Batman said.
Batman, I had a feeling wed meet soon enough. It will be my pleasure
to blow you up, he smiled, tearing off a grenade and throwing it. Batman
rolled out of the way as it exploded. Batman dodged another one. The
second one propelled him to the ground. He looked up to see a float hurtling
to the ground. The only problem was that a small boy was standing there. He
was too scared to move.
Oh, you got to be kidding me, Batman said. He ran and tackled the
boy out of the way just in time.
You alright? Batman said.
Batman, look out! the boy said. The Dark Knight turned around to
see Blackjack hit him with both hands. Batman flew to the ground. Blackjack
held up a knife and was getting ready to stab it down when Batman kicked
him away. The blade landed an inch from his face. The teen jumped up.

Blackjack punched at him twice. Batman ducked and punched him twice.
Blackjack only wiped the blood away and picked Batman up. He threw him
away. Batman landed fell through a float and landed on his stomach.
Be careful Bruce. Blackjack is a former explosive specialist in the
Black Ops. Hes now a merc for hire who always gets the job done. Hes
known for carrying almost any type of explosive that a soldier would carry.
Also, hes pretty tough to take down, Tom explained.
How does that tell me anything on how to beat this guy? Batman
groaned. Blackjack came rushing at him when he got up and rammed him
out of the way. Batman landed on a wall and slid down.
Two security guards stood in front of the candidates. Blackjack tore off
a grenade and threw it. The explosion threw the guards away. Only Braxton
was there. Blackjack picked him up and took out a grenade.
Its not anything personal, Braxton. I only get paid if you die,
Blackjack said.
Please, Ill pay you. Just dont kill me! the man whimpered. Batman
jumped on top of him, making Blackjack release the man. Batman also
planted a Bat Tracer on his collar.
Run! Batman called out. Blackjack grabbed him and slammed him
into the ground. Blackjack picked him up again and twirled him around.
When he let go Batman flew to the ground. Blackjack didnt stop there and
picked him up again. He placed an explosive on Batmans chest and threw
him away.
Batman tried prying it off with his bare hands but it wouldnt budge.
Tom, can you help me here? Because if you dont, these people are
gonna have barbecued bat for lunch, Batman said.
Hold on, Im activating the suits defense system, Tom said. Five
seconds later, the electricity made the explosive fall off.
Meanwhile, Blackjack was about to throw another grenade when the
GPD arrived. They had him cornered.
Drop the weapon and put your hands up. We will shoot you unless you
surrender, one of them said.
Whatever you say, officer, Blackjack smiled, raising a smoke grenade
and throwing it down. Smoke distracted the officers. The merc took
advantage of this and pressed a button on his jetpack. He flew away. The
officers then turned their attention to the recovering Batman.
Dont worry, everybodys fine. I put a tracer on him so he wont get
away clean, Batman assured. A man in a suit walked out of the squad. He
had on black sunglasses.
Batman, youve hid under the cowl for long enough. Youre hereby
under arrest for attempted murder of the candidates, he said coldly.
Oh no! Tom gasped.
What did I do? I saved their lives from that maniac, Batman argued.
Our judges have already sent their arrest warrant. Of course, you are
entitled to a lawyer for your trial. You are also accused of invading peoples
privacy, assault, and disturbing the peace. Candidate Dagger has agreed

that you must immediately be detained and prosecuted to the full extent of
the law. I presume that you will come quietly, the man continued.
What are you blabbing about, officer? Ive saved this city and every
single one of your inhabitants more times than youve saved anyone,
Batman argued angrily.
If you continue to resist police authority, we will be forced to shoot
you down like the bird you are, he smiled, drawing a pistol.
You should be going after Blackjack, not me, Batman said. Dagger
stepped forward.
Mr. Batman or whoever you say you are, all of these people saw you
attempt to kill Mr. Hughes and probably me after that. I wouldnt be surprised
if you were in cahoots with that criminal scum, Dagger said. Many people
recovering from the attack nodded their heads.
Bruce, right now would be an excellent time to make your dramatic
exit before a machine gun ends your glamorous career, Tom said.
Now, Ill ask once again, will you yield and give up or do we have to
use unnecessary roughness? the man said, taking the safety off.
Ill choose none of the above, Batman said throwing a Batarang. It
disarmed much of the front line of officers.
Shoot him down, the man snarled. Batman ran through the line of
gunfire. He expanded his wings and threw down a flash grenade. A blinding
light stunned the officers for the moment. When it cleared, Batman was long
gone.
I want every patrol to look for the piece of scum. I want helipads in
the skies every minute of the night. If you see him, you are deeply advised to
shoot him down. I want that man captured and wrapped in chains by the end
of the day or Ill fire every last one of you, the man said infuriated.
Bruce sat down at the Batcave, writing down numbers and equations
on a piece of paper while looking at the textbook for reference.
Dude, youre wanted all across the city. Youre now number one on
Gothams most wanted. Hey, you even beat the Jokers record for getting
there the fastest, Tom joked.
Tom, this aint a laughing matter. If those officers see one inch of me,
Im cooked, Bruce said.
First, youre getting that Algebra 2 homework done, Tom said.
Superman didnt have to all this work, Bruce grumbled.
How about that Dagger guy? Tom asked.
Daggers about as interesting as a pickle. But, he has to deal with
something involving that Blackjack scheme. Ever since hes been elected to
run, hes been on my case talking about what a menace I am to the city. My
guess is that hes trying to frame me in order to get more publicity for his
Anti-Batman campaign in order to win the position, Bruce deduced.
So, you have been reading those Sherlock Holmes books in English
class, Tom smiled.
Its quiet elementary, my dear Watson, Bruce smiled in a British
accent.

Well, the Tracer you put on Blackjack reveals that hes currently in the
main office of that Hughes guy. I wonder what hes up to, Tom said, looking
at the radar on the supercomputer.
Up to no good, I can tell you that. Im going to see what hes up to.
Ive already finished my homework, Bruce said, closing the textbook.
With all those cops everywhere? Tom asked.
Yep, Id better stop him before he blows up something and I get the
blame for it, Bruce said.
Hold on, the 6:00 news is coming on, Tom said, pressing a button.
The screen switched to Ricky Maine, the reporter standing near the parade
wreckage.
In other news, today the Election Day Parade was interrupted by the
Dark Knight himself, Batman. He attempted to murder Braxton Hughes and
probably all of the other candidates. He was stopped by the GPD before he
could do any more damage to this traditional ceremony. Batman is now
wanted for attempted murder. The GPD is working day and night to put this
costumed creep in jail where he belongs. Now, we go to Mr. Bryan Summers,
who is the Chief Marshal of the Gotham Police Department, Ricky said. The
camera moved to the man in the suit.
This is an urgent message to all of Gotham. Parents, do not let your
children follow this bad role model. He will only encourage your kids to
become criminals. This Batman has constantly embarrassed our law
department over and over again. I for one am sick of it. I you see Batman, do
not engage him. Immediately call the GPD and we will capture this arch
criminal once and for all. I repeat, do not engage him. Leave it to the real
defenders of Gotham to contain this public menace. By tonight, Batman will
be locked behind bars for good. Stay safe, Gotham, he said.
Now, Karen is currently interviewing candidate Dennis Dagger. Lets
see what he has to say about this public menace, Ricky said. The camera
shifted to Karen interviewing Dennis.
So, what are your thoughts about this heinous attack on you by
Batman earlier today, Dagger? she asked.
Batman is a public menace that must stop torturing our city. Now, as a
child I worshipped Batman, well the real Batman anyway. I mean the one
with the cape. It wasnt until later in life that I found out how he constantly
made our law enforcement look like children arriving late for a birthday party
thats already done. This Batman has constantly endangered the lives of
every single civilian who lives in Gotham. Its because of him that his arch
enemies exact their revenge on us. Its because of him that some of our
population has moved to other cities. Now, my thoughts for his attack on me
are the same as everyone else. Gotham, if you vote for me, I will put this
deranged costumed crook in Arkham Asylum to stay. Never again will you
have to endure his long reign of terror upon this great city, he said.
Thank you, Mr. Dagger and I wish you the best of luck upon your
campaign, Karen said.

Now, we go to the other top candidate for sheriff, Mr. Braxton

Hughes, Ricky said. The camera shifted to the man.
I dont believe one piece of the garbage that the Marshal and Dagger
has been telling these people. Batman is a good man. Sure, he doesnt want
to reveal who he really is. Then, every crook in town would target that person
every single minute of the day. Batman saved my life today. Without him, Id
be a dead man and Im sure many others would be too. Because of Batman,
we can sleep well at night knowing that someone just like us is willing to
endanger his own life to protect our homes from the criminal scum who
pollute our streets at night. Batman is a hero straight to the definition.
Without him, Gotham would be the urban wasteland it once was. So, I ask
you to vote for me and we will give this hero the credit he deserves, Hughes
said.
Finally, a man with good sense, Bruce sighed with relief.
What do you think Gotham? Is Batman a public menace or a hero?
Who is he really behind the mask? It could be anyone of us. Nevertheless,
Batman is still wanted for questioning. I advise every one of you to stay
inside and stay safe. Thank you for watching this broadcast and I bid you
good night Gotham, Ricky said, closing the program.
Youve still got a lot of heat on your tail, Bruce, Tom said.
Ive got to get out. This Dagger character is getting more interesting
by the minute. Tom, what do the GPD files say about him? Bruce asked. Tom
hacked into the GPD records and pulled out his name.
Hes got two speeding tickets and hes been avoiding his taxes lately.
Its not super villain worthy, Tom said.
Hes worth checking out but Id better check out what Blackjacks
doing. Ill pack extra Batarangs, Bruce said.
Ten minutes later, the doors to Braxtons office opened up. Batman
walked through them. A security camera was looking right at him. Batman
drew a Batarang and was getting ready to throw it when he saw that the wire
was already cut. All the other security cameras were deactivated as well.
Batman walked into Braxtons main office to see Blackjack adjusting the
wiring to some explosive. There were tons of grenades and dynamite hooked
up everywhere.
Im guessing that youre not putting up Christmas decorations,
Batman said.
Blackjack looked up to see the Dark Knight.
Batman, youre just in time to see the big bang. Im surprised the cops
havent caught up to you yet, Blackjack smiled.
Batman threw the Batarang. It landed in the wall near Blackjack. The
part of the Batarang outside the wall opened up and knockout gas came out.
Blackjack walked out of the mask holding a gas mask to his face. Batman
jumped up and kicked him in the face. Batman punched him at least three
times in the face. Blackjack swung a punch at him. Batman took the arm and
flipped him over the table.

Blackjack took out a grenade and threw it. Batman rolled out of the
way but the explosion knocked him into a wall. Blackjack picked him up and
slammed him against the wall.
You see that chair? When Braxton sits on it tonight, the pressure pad
placed on it will set off the trigger. Thirty pounds of explosive will go off like
the Fourth of July. Itll blow the building to heaven above, he explained.
Dont you feel any remorse about killing every employee up there?
Batman said.
Heck no, the only thing I care about is getting paid. And youre not
getting in my way, pointy ears, Blackjack smiled, putting an explosive to
Batmans neck and throwing him through the wall. Batman extended his
claws and ripped it off him. He threw it away. The explosion knocked him
down. Batman jumped up as Blackjack tackled him into the ground and
started choking him. Batman pulled his knees up and knocked the man off
him. They both got up. Batman threw the first punch and staggered
Blackjack but the villain took out a baseball bat and hit him hard. Batman
twirled around and fell down. Blackjack drove the bat down again but
Batman rolled out of the way and got up. Batman threw two Batarangs. One
disarmed him and the other one hit him in the head and stunned him
momentarily. Batman ran as fast as he could and dropkicked him into a
bunch of opened boxes. Batman ran through the hole in the wall and looked
at the timer.
Tom, you know how to deactivate this kind of bomb? Batman asked.
I dont know everything, you know. Just start cutting wires and hope
nothing blows you to oblivion, Tom said.
Batman drew a Batarang and started cutting wires. Blackjack grabbed
him and slammed him against the wall. The brute punched Batman hard in
the stomach and punched him again in the face. When Batman fell down, the
criminal kicked him hard in the stomach. Batman flew and hit the wall in
front of him.
You cant stop me, Batman. No one can, he smiled insanely, drawing
a machine gun and firing. Batman quickly got up and ran out of the way as
bullet holes appeared in the wall.
Wow, that guy really is a bad shot. My math teacher can shoot better
than him, Tom remarked. Soon, he ran out of ammo. Batman flipped over
the desk and kicked him with both feet. Blackjack staggered to the window
and threw a pistol.
Its over, Blackjack. Ive already deactivated the bomb, Batman said,
panting.
Blackjack fired into the timer. Suddenly, ten seconds appeared up there
and began to count down.
See you in the obituaries Bats, Blackjack smiled, jumping out of the
window.
Bruce, get of there! Tom yelled.
It is a nice night to fall from my doom, Batman said, jumping out of
the window. Suddenly, the whole front of the building exploded. Batman

escaped death by just two seconds. He expanded his wings and flew towards
Blackjack. Blackjack landed on an autopad and pushed the woman who was
driving it out.
Nuts, Batman murmured. He dove down even faster to catch the
woman. He finally caught her and flew down to the street level. He gently let
go of her.
Oh thank you, Batman. Bless you! Bless you! she thanked, kissing
him several times.
Alright, I get the point. Its part of the job. You can go home now,
Batman said, pushing her away. Batman turned around to run into a gun
pointing directly at him. The wielder was Bryan Summers. Twenty other GPD
officers had their guns pointing directly at him.
I should thank you too, Batman. You just made my job of catching you
a whole lot easier, Bryan smiled.
Did you just see me save that womans life? She was falling from at
least seventy stories high. Isnt that proof enough for you that Im a good
guy? Batman said.
Youre under arrest for blowing up that building and just because I
dont like you, he sneered, tightening his grip on the trigger.
Batman knocked the gun aside and punched him. The other officers
ran towards him. Batman ducked a tazer attack and punched the guy down.
Batman twirled around and nailed the guy from behind with a heel kick. A
man ran at Batman carrying a baton. Batman picked him up and threw him
into two other guys. Summers got up and were about to fire on Batman but
the teen was just two seconds faster. Batman back flipped out of the way to
dodge the round and threw a Bat-Lasso. It tied the marshal from arms to
torso. Batman picked up a trashcan full of trash and slammed it on a police
officers head. He couldnt see where he was aiming and fired everywhere.
All the cops ducked to dodge the blind fire. Batman kicked him away and
expanded his wings. A quick boost from his jetpack had him flying away.
With a knife, Bryan cut himself free and spoke into a field radio.
Batman has just resisted arrest and is escaping from the GPD. Shoot
the buzzard down. I repeat, we offered him to go in quietly but he refused.
Shoot the flying piece of bacon with overextended ears. I want bat wings for
dinner tonight! Shoot the punk down right now, he snarled infuriated.
I dont know how long you can keep this up Batman. The whole
Gotham Police Department is after you. It wont be long before they catch
you, Tom said.
Nonsense, how many times has this happened in the past? Batman
asked.
None, Tom replied plainly.
Exactly, I wouldnt prefer to get a life sentence in Arkham and spend
my time socializing with the crazies I put in there. I wouldnt exactly get the
warm Asylum welcome. Plus, if I get arrested you get arrested, Batman
explained.
Two helipads were following him.

Batman, this is your last chance. Give up or we will shoot you down.
This is your last warning. Give yourself up or we will be forced to shoot you
down, a pilot said into a microphone.
Im not going to Arkham dead or alive, cops, Batman called out.
Youve had all the chances youre gonna get. Boys, shoot the Bat
down, replied the pilot. Batman maneuvered out of the way to dodge the
fire. He narrowly dodged a missile which went into a building and exploded.
Dang, those cops really want to kill you, Tom said.
This is the kind of gratitude I get for saving your hides. I bet
Superman or Wonder Woman dont have to go through all of this, Batman
murmured. Two more missiles shot towards him. Batman flew to another
street. The missile was only a couple of feet away from his feet. Batman was
heading straight for an abandoned warehouse. He went through the window
and kept on flying. When he got out, the missile blew up the entire building.
Scratch one missile, but I still gotta shake the second one before Im
Bat-Meat, Batman said, going through all sorts of crazy maneuvers, but the
lone missile kept on its target. Batman flew down to street level and used the
turbo engine to boost him a skyscraper level. Batman drew a Batarang and
threw it directly into the missile.
If Im not mistaken, this should confuse the auto control and have it
blow up right now, Batman guessed. The missile did blow up but the impact
threw Batman into a building. He landed hard but rolled up fast.
I think I shook them, Batman said.
He walked to the edge of the building only to see two helipads looking
straight at him, their guns locked and loaded. He turned around to see the
other two helipads cornering him.
Got any bright ideas, Wayne? Tom whimpered.
Batman raised his hands in surrender.
Its about time. Im calling the ground troops to arrest him, one of the
pilots said.
Batman, what in blazes are you doing? You cant surrender now, Tom
gasped in horror.
Wait for it, Batman whispered so that only Tom could hear him.
The pilots for that one moment let their hands off of the gun control to
call for help. Batman pressed a small pressure on his palm. A small smoke
grenade showed up.
Hey, dont try any tricks with that belt of yours. We can still shoot you
down, one of the pilots said.
Dont worry, I only have one trick up my sleeve, Batman smiled.
What? the other pilot said. Batman dropped the pellet. It exploded
into smoke. Smoke came out for about fifteen seconds. When it cleared up,
Batman was gone and nowhere to be seen.
Weve been duped. I had a hunch that that Batman wouldnt give up
without a fight. While we were so busy calling for help, he made his own
escape. The boss is gonna have our heads for this, one of them groaned.

Dont worry; he can only go so far with those wings of his. Plus, this
buildings sky window is bolted shut. We wouldve seen him and shot him
down before he could get in. Well check the next street. Move out, the next
pilot assured. They flew away.
Batman walked out from behind the dumpster when they were long
gone.
I knew you wouldnt surrender, Tom lied.
Tom, you got to have more trust in me. I know what Im doing even
when I dont know what Im doing, Batman assured. He slipped on a piece of
paper and fell down.
You mean like that? Tom smiled. Batman got up and picked it up.
Its a to do list. A person who went to the grocery store probably threw
this away, Batman said, about to throw it in the trashcan. Suddenly, he saw
the words Batman and unfolded it.
Well, what does it say? Tom said.
It says To do list for this week. Frame Batman and start some kind of
campaign to turn the public against him. Next, hire the explosion specialist
Blackjack. His phone number is 941 3600. Then, kill Braxton Hughes. Hes
the most liable candidate to win. Last, win the election and be the real hero
of Gotham, by Dennis Dagger. This sure puts an interesting turn on this
case, Batman said.
This is cutting edge evidence, Bruce. This proves that Dagger is the
real criminal, not you. Show this to the cops and theyll stop the manhunt for
you, Tom said.
Suddenly, three street punks showed up carrying knives and steel
pipes.
We should really thank you, Batman. Now, those dang cops are on
your case, not ours. It gives us more time to steal old ladys purses, one of
them smiled.
Yeah, and since youre a criminal now weve got to initiate you into
being a criminal. Its simple. You stand there like a costumed reject from
Halloween and we beat you down like the sad clown you are, the buffy one
smiled.
Go lick a fire hydrant and get lost, Batman said.
Get him, the last one shouted. One tried to cut Batmans face with
the knife. Batman grabbed his wrist and kicked his gut, while holding the
blade. Batman pulled him into a knee and broke his wrist. Batman then threw
him into the wall. The big one ran at him. Batman picked him up and threw
him into the dumpster. Batman closed it. The last one pulled out a gun and
was getting ready to fire it when Batman slapped the gun away from him and
picked him up.
It was just a joke, Bats. We just wanted to throw you a party, he
pleaded like a coward. Batman punched him. The big one got up out of the
dumpster, angrier than ever. He grabbed the pipe and ran at Batman.
Batman turned around and threw a Bat-Lasso. It tied his legs together
making him fall into Batman. Batman twirled around and hit him directly in

the face. He flew and hit the wall. Batman picked up the pipe and bended it.
He wrapped it around the unconscious man. The last man picked up the gun
and was about to fire when Batman turned around, and threw a Batarang. It
disarmed him.
No hard feelings, right, old friend of mine, he smiled weakly, turning
on his heels and running. A Bat-Lasso tied his feet together and he fell.
Batman picked him up.
When you wake up, give the crime underworld a message. Even
though the cops are after me, Im still on every one of your cases, Batman
said, punching his lights out.
I still dont get how you can be that intimidating and feared by the
whole underworld, Tom awed.
It comes with practice, Tommy gun. It comes with practice. Now, lets
pay the politician a visit, Batman said.
After ten minutes of avoiding the police, Batman finally made it to the
penthouse. Two GPD officers were guarding the entrance with assault rifles.
You dont think that Batman would ever show himself here, do you?
one of them said nervously.
Nah, if I were him, Id be hiding in a dumpster. This would be the last
place he would go, the other one assured, not so sure himself. A knockout
gas grenade was silently rolled to them.
The helipads probably already got him by now. Theres not any
possible way that one man could hide against the whole GPD, the other one
replied.
Yeah, but hes Batman. Dont you think he would have a better way of
defying the odds? I mean, he can stand out against the entire criminal
underworld and not break a sweat doing it, the other one argued.
The knockout gas came out and engulfed them. They started
coughing. One fell down. One was about to reach the alarm button when
Batman grabbed his neck and pulled him away. The man managed to put on
a gas mask and pulled out a pistol. He was about to fire it when Batman
slammed his hand holding the gun against the wall. That made him let go of
the weapon. The man was still struggling so Batman tore the gas mask off
and locked him in a sleeper hold. The mans struggles grew weaker as he
finally went to sleep. Batman gently put him down. The gas soon
disappeared.
Sorry, Batman said, walking inside. He took cover beside a large
table and saw an astonishing picture. Blackjack and Dagger were arguing
about something.
What do you mean by you failed to kill Hughes? I gave you two easy
chances to extinguish that flame of a man and you didnt get the job done.
Whats your excuse this time? Dagger said angrily.
Batman showed up and I had to blow up the bomb a bit earlier than
planned. It wasnt my fault, Blackjack said.
You idiot, do you know how much time and effort Ive spent on your
mishaps. Youre lucky that Batman showed up just in time to put the blame

on him. You had an easy shot killing him during the parade. Why didnt you
stop playing with that pointy eared freak and kill him? Dagger snarled.
Listen, lay off. Im gonna get that man tonight at the sheriff election
ceremony. If you keep talking to me like that, Ill kill you, then Ill crack open
that safe of your and get my money and maybe more, Blackjack shot back.
If you kill me, youre not getting one red cent of my fortune. All of my
safes and bank deposits are only accessible by me. If you want money, rob a
bank. Thats why youre a crook, isnt it? The point is, kill Hughes tonight and
dont get arrested. I dont want the cops to know that I hired you and that I
was connected to all of those attacks including the one where you blew up
that building, Dagger said.
I got you, boss! By the way, whats your vendetta about that creep
Batman? Blackjack asked.
Nothing. Hes just a pawn in my eventual conquest of Gotham. Now,
you know what to do, Dagger said grimly.
I think Ive heard enough, Batman said, walking out of his cover.
You idiot, you led him straight towards us, Dagger snarled.
Blackjack pulled out the Bat-Tracer and crushed him.
Did you enjoy the free publicity I gave you? the man taunted.
Your schemes failed, Dagger. The cops may not see the evil inside
you, but I do. Let me guess, you needed to win this election so bad that you
had to start an Anti-Batman campaign. You used the hate and fear in some
people about me and used it to your own advantage to win. Then, your only
problem was Braxton Hughes. He had slightly more support from Gotham so
you had to kill him if you had any chance of winning. You hired that grenade
throwing goofball to get the job done than you would have no further
competition, so you would win, Batman deduced.
Youre smarter than the public gives you credit for, Batman. Yes, all
that is true but youll never give those imbeciles of police officers that
information, he said, pressing a button behind his desk. The tile that
Batman was standing on electrocuted him. He fell down.
So, whats the master plan, Dagger? Batman asked.
Yes, I never did tell the public what I would do when I get elected.
Well, its quite simple. I said I would eliminate crime at its core and thats
exactly what I intend to do. Ill blow up the whole east side of Gotham, he
told Batman.
What, you cant kill all of those people. Most of them are innocent
people, Batman said.
They were at the wrong place at the wrong time. Itll be hard at first,
but the public will then love me and even build a statue of me. Ill even get a
monument dedicated to Gothams savior Dennis G. Dagger, he smiled
coldly.
Youre not Gothams savior, youre its destroyer, Batman said.
I dont recall seeing your statue anywhere, Batman. Anyway, I almost
did regret framing you, but you were the wrong hero at the wrong city sadly.
There was so much real good in you, but you could never get the real job

done. Once I get elected, Ill do something that you never could possibly do
in your entire career. Ill blow up the East Side and never more will I have to
walk in the so called bad part of town and not get mugged by some kid punk
whos never taken a shower in his life. Never again will I have to sit through
the news up dead police officers from a gang shootout. Ill be the best sheriff
this town has ever seen. I meant it when I said Id restore this town to its
original standing. Its too bad youll never live to see the new Gotham, Bats,
he said.
Youre crazy, Dagger, Batman said.
Blackjack, stay here and dispose of this mess, and try not to get to
much blood on my carpet. Ill kill that man himself, Dagger spat.
With great pleasure, boss, Blackjack said, picking up a multi-missile
bazooka.
Adieu, Batman, Dagger said, walking out of the front door.
Looks like its just you and me. Lets dance, he said, firing. Batman
got up in the nick of time and rolled out of the way as the explosion tore a
hole in the wall. Blackjack fired again. Batman ran out of the way as the
explosion blew up the kitchen.
Hold still so I can blow you to smithereens, he said.
Sorry, but I dont want to hold still and get blown up. Half of the cons
in Arkham will cry buckets of tears. I cant disappoint my adoring fans,
Batman said, dodging another blast. The next blast sent him flying through a
window and into the balcony. Smoke was everywhere.
I think I got him, Blackjack smiled. Suddenly out of the smoke
Batman with his wings extended came hurtling at the arch foe. Blackjack
pulled the trigger but he was about of ammo. Batman managed to push him
back a couple of yards but Blackjack grabbed his arms and locked Batman in
a deadly headlock. The hold got tighter by every second.
Im the best of the best, Batman. Noone can outsmart Blackjack Joe,
he said.
Well, youre about to get a mark on that record, Batman said.
Summoning every ounce of his strength Batman did on of the most amazing
feats of human strength ever attempted. He picked the six foot five man up.
Wait, thats impossible! Put me down! Put me down! I give up,
Blackjack said.
Sure, Blacky, Ill put you down all right, the Dark Knight said,
throwing him. The man flew and hit a generator. He was electrocuted. A flash
of his skeleton was shown several times. When it stopped, Blackjack raised a
grenade. Smoke was trailing out of his back. He fell down on his stomach.
The grenade rolled to Batmans feet. The victorious hero stood beside the
beaten adversary.
Well, that was fun. Is he done? Tom asked.
Yep, hes well cooked alright. Now, lets see what kind of stuff Mr.
Sheriff has under his crib, Batman said. He saw a paper almost tucked in a
drawer. He opened the drawer and picked it up.

This is a list of at least ten of the citys most notorious mercs, their
phone numbers, and their hideouts. It includes the Fearsome Four, Blackjack,
and many more. Tom, I think weve just wrapped up this case, Batman said.
Ladies and Gentlemen, this is the moment in which youve been
waiting for. Youve cast your votes and now you see the results. In my hand, I
hold the envelope that tells who the new appointed sheriff is. Drumroll,
please, the announcer said. The final election was held in a ballroom with
people waiting in deep anticipation. Some people made the drum roll sound.
And, the winner of the 2022 Sheriff Election is. The man said.
Suddenly, Batman crashed through the window.
Stop right there, Bobby Joe, Batman said. Thirty police officers stood
between the candidates. The cameramen even took out guns aimed it at
Batman.
Youre not pulling another Houdini on us this time, Bats. Prepare to
fire, the marshal ordered.
Hold it! Hold the guns. Im innocent and Ive got proof to enforce that
notion, Batman said.
What are you talking about, punk? We all saw you attack the parade
this afternoon. You saw that the candidates were still alive so you planted a
bomb in Mr. Braxtons office to put him down. But, somehow it backfired so
you came here to finish the job and look good doing it. Im no Sherlock
Holmes but a five year old could figure that out, he said, taking the safety
off.
Ive also got evidence that that man Dennis Dagger is responsible for
attempted political murder, Batman replied.
What are you blabbing about? Officers, arrest this evildoer so we can
get on with the election, Dagger said nervously.
Theres a funny question. How would a political candidate have
possession of a contacts sheet listing the phone numbers and hideouts of the
citys most notorious mercenaries, Batman said, taking out the paper and
throwing it to the marshal. Bryan took it and read it.
Its still a load of garbage. You couldve written this in Daggers
handwriting, Bryan pointed out.
Yeah, but I cant mimic this, Batman said, taking out a tape recorder.
He pressed play.
And now let the magic roll, Batman said. The entire conversation
between Dagger and Blackjack was played. Most of the police officers looked
at Dagger suspiciously.
I admit that that is pretty average evidence, but its your word against
his. I trust that man, unlike you, Bryan admitted stubbornly.
Well, heres some more evidence I found around the city. This is a to
do list, Batman said, handing Bryan the other paper. The chief marshal
snatched it and unfolded it. He read it and looked at Dagger.
Hes lying, officers. Arrest him already, you idiots. Hes an arch
criminal, Dagger said.
Whats your point, Batman? Bryan said.

Your man Dagger hired the loon Blackjack to do his dirty work.
Havent you noticed that Blackjack has only tried to kill Hughes, not him?
Plus, Daggers fingerprints are on those pieces of paper. Ive scanned it
already, Batman said.
Youve got a pretty good point, but youre still under arrest, Bryan
smiled. Batman played the recording over again.
Think about it, as many times as Ive saved this city, do you really
think I would be responsible for this? Batman replied. Bryan lowered his
pistol and put it back in his holster.
Officers, stand down, he said grimly.
NO! I wont be defeated when Im so close, Dagger snarled, drawing
a Colt pistol from his coat. He aimed it at Batman.
Youve interfered in my plans for too long, Batman. Blackjack may
have failed to kill you, but I wont. I know I wasted my time calling that
blundering buffoon of an assassin. Ill do it myself. You idiot officers havent
made a change in this city for over twenty years. Most of you are too lazy or
weak to even go in the bad parts of town. I wouldve made a difference in
this town. Im a better hero than he even would be, he snarled.
Youve just outsmarted yourself, big mouth. Youve just confessed to
everything on this recording and then some. I presume that your officers
heard every word of those last sentences, Batman said.
Youre under arrest, Dennis, Bryan said. All of the officers aimed their
guns at him.
It doesnt feel too good now does it, Mr. Sheriff, Batman smiled.
Dagger grudgingly relinquished his weapon and grumbled angrily as the
police handcuffed him.
So were imbeciles to you? one of the police officers said, pushing
him away.
Ill get you, Batman. Youll be sorry you ever messed with me. Get
your dirty hands of me. I demand to receive my lawyer. Ill sue the Gotham
Police Department for this. Youll all pay for this. Im the hero here. Unhand
me, he complained. The officers pushed him out of the door.
Blackjacks tied up in Daggers apartment. Youll have no trouble
handling him, I suppose, Batman said.
Ill notify my men to stop the manhunt, but Im on to you, Batman.
Dagger was right on one thing. Youre still a public menace and Ill prove it.
You escaped jail this time, punk, but justice will find you and prosecute you
to the full extent of the law, he whispered.
Right back at you, Batman replied.
Summers walked away. The speaker rose up from a table and walked to
the podium shakenly.
I think I speak for everyone when I say that Mr. Dagger has been
disqualified for being a criminal, he said. The people who hadnt panicked
and ran away slowly nodded their heads.

Either way, Mr. Braxton Hughes won the sheriff position. Ladies and
Gentlemen, I present the newly elected sheriff of Gotham, he smiled.
Hughes shook his hand and accepted his badge.
Id like to thank every single one of you for voting for me. I must
admit that this wasnt the type of election ceremony I was dreaming about
with Batman and police officers, but Ill accept it. My first rule of business is
to thank Mr. Batman for saving my life three times today. Without him, Id be
a dead man lying in a grave. Batman is a hero, and we should show our
appreciation. Dagger brainwashed all of Gotham with thoughts of hate, and
Ive been elected to right this wrong. Batman is hereby cleared of all charges
against him. Im sure all of you support this, Hughes thanked. Everyone
clapped for the hero.
Well, youre all very welcome, Batman said, expanding his wings.
Wait, how will we be able to contact you? Hughes asked.
Ill be there when you need me, sheriff, Batman said. His jetpack
fired and he flew out of the window.
Batman squatted on a flag pole observing the city below.
Well, thats another corrupt businessman down for the count,
Batman said.
Yeah, but youve got a whole lot more stuff to worry about. The
Apocalypse East is robbing S.T.A.R Labs right now. Youd better start flapping
those wings, bat boy, Tom said.
I hear you, partner, but dont ever say that word again, Batman said,
expanding his wings.
Dont forget about your English essay, Tom reminded.
Ill get it done once I punch somebody in the face and get a cheesy
punch line in, Batman said.
Thats what worries me, Tom sighed.
Batman flew into the heart of Gotham.