Batman: Masked Souls Part 2

From Jalassociatecomics

Welcome to part 2 of the screenplay. If you haven't read the preceeding sections, would like an introduction or would like to move on, please use the links below.

Part 2

EXT. BATCAVE

The Batwing docks and the docking platform lowers into view. The cockpit hisses open once more, and Batman steps out of the craft. Alfred greets him with a tray of warm soup. Batman pulls of his mask, and sits down at the Batcomputer, sipping the soup.

Alfred: In a sense, I suppose. You’ve always had this non-human sheen, whenever you put on that suit. Everyone wears a mask, Master Bruce. Sometimes I think you take the concept a little far.

Batman: It’s what makes this persona frightening, Alfred. It helps me do my job.

Alfred: Yes, sir. Do pardon me.

Batman: It’s okay…but…a human side…

Alfred: (pauses)…Perhaps you have regained some of that tonight sir?

Batman: I don't know Alfred.

Batman gets up from the Batcomputer and goes to the changing area.

EXT. GOTHAM POLICE DEPARTMENT-THE NEXT DAY

Bruce Wayne lays a portfolio on the table.

Commissioner Gordon: Thank you so much Mr Wayne...it's very kind of you to take Dick Grayson in.

Bruce Wayne: (genuinely) I guess you could say he’s a kindred spirit.

Commissioner Gordon: Yes…I remember the night your parents passed away…and the look in your eyes. Exactly how Grayson looked.

Bruce Wayne: What happened with him, what exactly?

Commissioner Gordon: We’re looking into it at the moment. It’s been a very busy 16 hours for the boy. Frankly, I’ve been busy too. There was a large-scale operation late last night…Anyway, his parents were apparently murdered in the middle of a circus performance.

Bruce Wayne: …and he saw everything?

Commissioner Gordon: I’m afraid so. He was performing with them. Circus aerialists. He’s a gifted performer too; it’s definitely in his blood. Anyway, the murder seems to be the work of mob boss Tony Zucco. Hired a sniper when the circus manager couldn’t pay up.

Bruce Wayne: Protection money?

Commissioner Gordon: (nods) You know how it is with these types. He messed up their prized act just to show his muscle. It’s just an educated guess at this stage, though, so we can’t be too sure.

Bruce Wayne: When can he be taken home?

Commissioner Gordon: The system’s always been fairly inefficient, but we’re making an exception for his case. Once all the papers are signed and the database is sorted out, we’re done. However, do expect to deal with a lot of media pressure, especially since you’re that high up the social ladder. They’ll want to get the scoop on why you’ve adopted an orphaned aerialist, and there’re sure to be lots of nasty rumours flying around. Not to mention the unearthing of your past.

Bruce Wayne: (smiles) I’ve handled worse. Anyway, would he mind if I met him?

Commissioner Gordon: He’s a bit shaken up, just like you were back then. But he should be okay soon enough.

INT. HALLWAY IN POLICE DEPARTMENT

The camera follows Gordon and Wayne as they make their way to the room where Grayson is waiting. A female officer is sitting with him.

Renee Montoya: Hello sir. I was just telling him about Wayne.

Commissioner Gordon: Well, here he is. (motioning towards the door) Thanks, Renee.

Female officer: Okay, commissioner.

The female officer leaves the room.

Commissioner Gordon: Dick, this is Mr Bruce Wayne, your foster father. He’s kindly offered to take you in.

Bruce Wayne: (warmly) Hey (extends hand)

Dick Grayson: (uncertain) Hello, Mr Wayne (shakes Bruce’s hand)

Bruce Wayne: You can call me Bruce if you like. No need to be formal. Don’t worry, I’ve been through it all.

Dick Grayson: (suddenly teary) I miss Mom and Dad… (voice trailing off)

Bruce Wayne: (hugs Dick Grayson) It’s okay… It’s alright…

Commissioner Gordon: Let’s go get your papers.

Dick Grayson: (wipes away tears) Okay…

The three leave the room

EXT. WAYNE MANOR DRIVEWAY The stately manor comes into view, the audience have just enough time to take it in before the camera cuts to-

INT. WAYNE’S LIMOUSINE

Bruce Wayne: This is your new home…Wayne Manor

Dick Grayson: (smiles uneasily) …It has a name?

Bruce Wayne: (chuckles) It’s been around for a long time, I didn’t name it.

EXT. WAYNE MANOR ENTRANCE

Alfred is standing at the ready outside Wayne Manor. He opens the car door for Dick and Bruce.

Bruce Wayne: (to Dick Grayson) This is Alfred. He’s the butler…and a good friend.

Alfred: (in a friendly manner) Hello there, chap.

Dick Grayson: Hey, Mr. Alfred.

Alfred: Come in, I’ll show you to your room.

The chauffer removes Grayson’s luggage from the back of the limousine.

Bruce Wayne: (to chauffer) Thanks.

The chauffer nods, and Bruce carries the bags into the house. The chauffer then gets back in, and then drives away to park the car.

INT. WAYNE MANOR

The camera sweeps across the hall, then follows the trio up the grand staircase.

Bruce Wayne: (going up stairs with Dick and Alfred) I know you’ve been through a lot, so just take it easy. This will be a big change from your life at the circus.

Dick Grayson: (nodding uneasily) I can already tell!

Bruce Wayne: (chuckles) You’ll get used to it.

Alfred: Master Bruce is a busy man, his work demands alot from him - but he's definitely not busy enough not to care for you.

Dick Grayson: (to Alfred) How long have you been working here?

Alfred: I see it more of living than working, chap, and ever since Master Bruce was in diapers.

Bruce Wayne: Very funny Alfred. Anyway, Alfred helped me back after my parents died. Wouldn’t have been who I am today without him.

INT. DICK’S NEW ROOM

The camera reveals a spacious but cosy private area, fashioned in much the same way as most of the stately Manor. The room is clean, but not spartan. The door opens, and Dick steps in.

Dick Grayson: (in slight awe) Wow!

Bruce Wayne: (chuckles) It’s good that you like it so much. Alfred, why don’t you show him around the garage? You said you like motorcycles earlier…

EXT. GARAGE

The camera zooms out slowly to reveal a large, subterranean garage and workshop.

Dick Grayson: (in slight awe) How many are there?

Alfred: 72, when I last checked.

Bruce Wayne: (chuckles) Cars are one of my…hobbies. I get to drive around prototypes nobody will ever get to buy in the market.

Dick Grayson: That’s a fun job…but it can’t be better than at the circus… (voice trailing off in slight sadness).

Alfred: (notices his sentimentality) Well, it isn’t Master Bruce’s job really. Anyway, you’ve had a busy day. Why don’t you get some rest?

Bruce Wayne: (agrees) Yeah…we’ll continue the tour another day, Dick.

INT. HALLWAY IN WAYNE MANOR

Dick is now alone in his room, leaving Bruce and Alfred to talk privately as they proceed elsewhere in the Manor.

Alfred: He’s a very nice chap, Master Bruce. Reminds me a lot of you back then, just a bit more wide-eyed.

Bruce Wayne: (agrees) He’s taking it all very well. I would say he’s reasonably mature for his age.

Alfred: Pardon me, Master Bruce, but you've always said that your truest persona was the Batman.

Bruce Wayne: (smiles slightly) Well Alfred, for the time being, Wayne Industries just won’t let me escape the late night board meetings.

INT. BATCAVE-THAT EVENING

Alfred enters the Batcave via an elevator. Bruce Wayne is seated at the Batcomputer, already in costume, except for his mask.

Alfred: Pardon me sir, but I believe this new addition to the family does take priority over your late night board meetings.

Bruce Wayne: Something’s fishy with all this Tony Zucco business.

Alfred: Come again, sir?

Bruce Wayne: Tony Zucco, the presumed mastermind of the murder of Dick’s parents. Commissioner Gordon told me about it, that the circus manager refused to pay so-called "protection money"

Alfred: Oh my…

Bruce Wayne: I think it’s only best if I visit the crime scene myself. Who knows, maybe Zucco will actually show his face.

Alfred: Come back quickly, sir…Master Dick is probably smarter than we all think…

Bruce Wayne: …Not if you help me keep my secret.

Bruce Wayne pulls the cowl over his head…his transformation into Batman complete for that evening. He walks towards the waiting Batmobile, and gets in. The Batmobile zooms off into the night. Alfred sighs, and proceeds back into the elevator, returning to Wayne Manor.

INT. WAYNE MANOR HALLWAY

Alfred walks along the hallway towards Dick Grayson’s room.

Alfred: Master Dick? Master Dick?

There is no reply. Alfred opens the door to his room and proceeds. It is empty.

Alfred: Master Dick?

EXT. GARAGE

Dick Grayson: (to himself) 72 cars… I need a bike, I only know how to drive a bike…

Dick Grayson runs over to the section of the garage where Bruce’s motorcycles are stored. He hesitates.

Dick Grayson: It’s stealing…but I have to find out what happened to Mum and Dad… (voice trailing off)

Dick finds a motorcycle that is small enough for his frame. He grabs one of many helmets and a jacket from the nearby maintenance rack, concealing his identity. Dick starts the bike, and then speeds off out of the garage. The garage door opens automatically.

INT. BATCAVE

Alfred attempts to use the Manor’s closed-circuit camera system to track down Dick Grayson. Suddenly, the image of Grayson leaving the Wayne Manor garage flashes across the screen.

Alfred: (to Batman, over cowl radio) Master Bruce, I take back what I said about him being a “nice chap”.

Batman: (over cowl radio) I was expecting this…sort of. Never mind, I’ll take care of it.

Alfred: I remember you having tracking devices built into all of the bikes and cars in case someone got their hands on them…

Batman: (over cowl radio) Activate it. The transmission will be fed into the Batmobile too.

Alfred: (reaching over to activate tracking device) …Never thought your possessiveness would come in handy…

INT. BATMOBILE

Batman: …Never thought so either.

Batman interfaces with the GPS tracking system, and Dick Grayson on his bike shows up following the same path Batman is…towards the abandoned Haley’s Circus grounds.

Batman: …He’s still a good kid…

Alfred: (over cowl radio) (sighs) Somewhat, Master Bruce…

EXT. ENTRANCE OF HALEY’S CIRCUS GROUNDS

The now-derelict area has been partially scavenged by squatters, even though it has only been two days. The tent, however, is more or less standing. The area has been taped off by police, but even they seem to have neglected the grounds. The Batmobile drives through the gates.
The Batmobile stops and Batman emerges. Producing a gadget, he performs a heat scan of the area. A faint signature shows up on the screen of the device. Instead of starting after the figure, Batman slips into the shadows.
Some time later, Dick Grayson’s motorcycle appears. He seems to notice that someone had beaten him to the grounds, but does not spot the Batmobile or its owner. He has some difficulty dismounting the bike, but removes his helmet and runs into the tent once he’s off.
When Dick Grayson is cleared from view, Batman proceeds stealthily into the abandoned big-top after him.

INT. ABANDONED BIG-TOP

The camera follows Dick Grayson as runs into the abandoned tent. Out of the corner of his eye, he spots a moving figure. Squinting, he seems to recognize the face. A flash and then-

INT. ROOM IN GOTHAM POLICE HEADQUARTERS-FLASHBACK

Commissioner Gordon: (to Dick Grayson) We believe this is the man who ordered the killing of your parents…

The commissioner pulls out a photograph of Tony Zucco. Dick Grayson stares, wide-eyed...

INT. ABANDONED BIG-TOP

We are brought back to Grayson’s reality. He recognizes Zucco from the photograph and is filled with rage. He activates the trapeze using a switch and jumps on. The trapeze creaks to life, and Dick is soon brought up to height. Leaping, he catches hold of the other end of the trapeze, closer to where Zucco is standing. Zucco begins to run, but Dick grabs hold of him. It is revealed that Grayson is surprisingly strong for someone of his age.

Tony Zucco: (afraid) Hang on! I mean, let me go!

Dick Grayson: Maybe when we’re higher up.

He leaps once more. Zucco’s coat drops, and falls slowly to the floor of the tent. In the meantime, Batman is watching.

Alfred: (over cowl radio) Don’t you think you should do something, Sir?

Batman: The boy’s skills are impressive. I believe he can handle this.

Tony Zucco: Why are you doing this?

Dick Grayson: Why did you kill my parents!? (punches Zucco)

Tony Zucco: Look kid…(pulls out a gun) Might as well give it a rest, eh?

The trapeze continues to travel upwards to the rafters of the tent.

Dick Grayson: If you shoot me, not only will you have one more Grayson’s blood on your hands, I’ll let go, and you’ll fall.

Tony Zucco: (glances down) alright kid…hold it steady…

Dick Grayson: YOU hold it steady! (knocks gun out of Zucco’s hand)

The camera follows the gun down, till it hits the circus floor. A metallic clattering rings out through the empty tent.

Dick Grayson: I can let go now…but even then your death can’t change anything…

Tony Zucco looks up in anguish. Dick Grayson stares back at him with scorn.
Flipping a switch on the trapeze platform, Dick slowly lowers the platform down to the floor.
Tony Zucco, startled, gets up, then runs off into the night.
Dick Grayson kneels helplessly on the floor.
Batman appears out of the shadows.

Batman: That was a very noble thing you did.

Dick Grayson: (realizing) (frustrated and angry) You were there…all the time! Why didn’t you do anything? Why didn’t you catch him?

Batman: Tell me now: why did you let him go?

Dick Grayson: Because…because…nothing can change it that my parents are now dead.

Batman: Coming to realise that is half the battle won.

Sirens can be heard in the background

Dick Grayson: You…called them?

Batman: (nods) let’s get you home.

Batman brings Grayson over to the Batmobile.

EXT. ENTRANCE OF HALEY’S CIRCUS

Dick Grayson: I took a bike…

Batman points a remote control at the motorcycle, and it automatically drives itself back to Wayne Manor.

Dick Grayson: (getting into the Batmobile) who are you, anyway?

Batman: (Getting into the car as well) I’ll explain on the way.

INT. BATMOBILE-DRIVING BACK TO WAYNE MANOR

Dick Grayson: Am I in any kind of trouble?

Batman: No. You would had you killed him.

Dick Grayson: Anyway, I stay at Wayne Manor now.

Batman: (nods) I know where that is.

Dick Grayson: You said you’d tell me who you are.

Batman: Question is: can I trust you?

Dick Grayson stares at Batman uncertainly.

Batman: (voice trailing off) You’re my son…I guess I can…

Batman slowly removes his cowl, revealing his identity to the passenger.

Dick Grayson: (Gasps) Why didn’t you tell me earlier?!

Batman: I didn’t know whether or not to. I guess now, you’re ready to know.

Dick Grayson: Then why did you take me in? Why did you adopt me if you thought it would disrupt your work?

Batman: One reason why I adopted you was because…we’re so alike. However, without proper guidance, I wandered…the death of my parent’s had driven me to near insanity. Alfred helped to ease me along. I thought that maybe I could give you the guidance I lacked, and prevent revenge from twisting you into a monster.

Dick Grayson: But you’re not a monster…not that much at least…

Batman: What can I say, Dick? Gotham’s overrun with monsters, they just need another one to balance it all.

The Batmobile veers off to a concealed route, driving through the forest surrounding Gotham’s outskirts, then through a secluded waterfall and into the Batcave.

INT. BATCAVE

Dick Grayson: Whoa!

The car comes to a stop, and the doors automatically open.

Batman: We call this place the Batcave. It’s where Alfred hangs out when he’s not dusting the statues.

Alfred: I heard that, Master Bruce.

Dick Grayson emerges from the vehicle, and gives Bruce Wayne an unexpected hug.

Dick Grayson: Thanks for everything, Mr Wayne.

Bruce Wayne: It's okay. go get some rest.

Dick Grayson proceeds up to Wayne Manor proper.

Alfred: So, no more late-night board meetings?

Bruce Wayne: In theory, yes.

Alfred: So what made you tell him?

Bruce Wayne: He showed signs that he was ready. He didn’t kill Zucco when he had the chance. He’s ready.

Alfred: To be a… (looking for the right words) sidekick sir?

Bruce Wayne: (chuckles) That’s still a bit of a comic book idea, don’t you think?

Alfred: Just a thought, sir…

Bruce Wayne: Then again…his skills are extraordinary, and he’s quite a sensible fellow…maybe one day.

Alfred: Quite right, sir.

INT. BRUCE WAYNE’S BEDROOM-THE NEXT DAY

Bruce Wayne is just about to get up from bed, as Alfred enters with a tray of early morning tea and the newspaper.

Alfred: Rise and shine, Master Bruce

Bruce Wayne: (yawns) Good morning Alfred. (gets up from bed)

Alfred: Rather interesting headline today, sir.

Bruce Wayne takes the newspaper, labelled “The Gotham Globe”. The headline reads “Gotham’s ‘Most Eligible’ Adopts”.

Bruce Wayne: (mutters) Just as Commissioner Gordon said…

Alfred: Do notice that “Most Eligible” is in inverted commas.

Bruce Wayne: Very funny, Alfred.

Bruce pulls on a shirt and gets out of bed.

Alfred: Either way, you have a very busy day ahead of you. And Master Dick will be coming along?

Bruce Wayne: Yes. That way they’ll get their picture, and odds are we won’t be harassed any further.

Alfred: Shall I wake Master Dick, then?

Bruce Wayne: Go ahead. I’ll be waiting at breakfast.

INT. DINING ROOM IN WAYNE MANOR

Dick Grayson comes down the stairs in a tailored suit.

Bruce Wayne: You look great!

Dick Grayson: Sorta…didn’t get enough sleep…

Bruce Wayne: You’ll get used to it. I did. Anyway, have your breakfast and we’ll get into the car.

Dick Grayson: Where are we going? School’s out at the moment.

Bruce Wayne: Thank goodness for that. A little tour of Wayne Enterprises shouldn’t hurt. There’ll be lots of reporters about though.

Dick Grayson: Something else I have to get used to?

Bruce Wayne: Sorta.

EXT. OUTSIDE WAYNE ENTERPRISES HEADQUARTERS

Reporters, photojournalists and paparazzi have clogged up the area in front of the WE building, all wanting to get a good shot of Dick Grayson. The limousine pulls up and Bruce Wayne with his ward emerge. The cameras start flashing in frenzy. The reporters then ask many questions simultaneously; none clear enough for the viewers to catch. The camera then follows the duo into the building, while the media is shut outside.

Lucius Fox: Good to see you Bruce … (attention turns to Dick) and you too.

Bruce Wayne: Dick, meet Lucius Fox, CEO of Wayne Enterprises. He still enjoys hanging around R&D, where he first started off.

Dick Grayson: Hi, sir.

Lucius Fox: (chuckles) Follow me, we’ve got things to check out.

INT. LABORATORY

The camera follows Bruce, Lucius and Dick to a large laboratory in the headquarters. The camera pans to reveal a mammoth tank filled with water, containing a small robot.

Lucius Fox: What we have here are actually two innovations. The tank is actually a pressure simulator, able to copy, almost exactly, the pressure that will be exerted onto this unmanned vehicle at the depths in which it will operate. The vehicle is designed to withstand the extreme pressure simulated here in the tank and will face it soon enough in the open oceans. A remotely-operated vehicle, this will go where it isn’t safe for people to explore, and will be controlled from a distance.

Bruce Wayne: That’s quite impressive…

Dick Grayson: Yeah.

Lucius Fox: We already have a couple of maritime technology-related businesses on the waiting list. At the moment, it isn’t perfect, but is going pretty well.

Bruce Wayne: How about a demonstration?

Lucius Fox: That…can be arranged. (to Dick) How would you like to try?

Dick Grayson: That’d be cool…

Lucius Fox: (chuckles) Follow me then.

The three go over to a console nearer to the large tank.

Lucius Fox: Basically you just manipulate the joystick over here, while paying attention to the video feeds from the five cameras built into the ROV. It’s a rather simple system compared to the predecessors. Here, I’ll set the pressure for you (Lucius toggles the controls) The ROV will now behave as if it were at a depth of 2000 metres.

Dick Grayson gingerly moves the joystick. The ROV moves as the joystick does. However, Dick’s hand slips and the vehicle slams into the wall of the tank.

Dick Grayson: Sorry!

Lucius Fox: No worries kid, the only thing that can damage the glass is an intense pulsar wave.

Bruce Wayne: (chuckles) An intense pulsar wave…

Lucius Fox: It is existing technology, Bruce, but technology that would take too long to explain.

INT. DICK’S ROOM – THAT NIGHT

Dick Grayson is fiddling with photographs of his dead parents. He is visibly less traumatized, but still noticeably sad. A knock on his door is heard.

Dick Grayson: (looks up from the photographs) Uh huh?

Bruce Wayne opens the door and walks in.

Bruce Wayne: It must be…uh…a little strange, isn’t it, knowing the truth now. (Chuckles)

Dick Grayson: I don’t know if I can get used to it…not only that, but living this life. All the attention and everything… It’s not that I’m ungrateful for you bringing me in…

Bruce Wayne: …I understand. I was wondering if there’s something more I can offer you, out of all this emptiness.

Alfred steps in

Alfred: If I may, sir, you know full well…

Bruce Wayne: (suddenly stern) It’s a serious matter, what we discussed…

Dick Grayson: There’s more with regards to Batman that I can do, more than just keeping the secret.

Alfred: You told me he’s ready, sir…

Dick Grayson: …and helping you is something I very much want to do…

Bruce gets up.

Bruce Wayne: (sighs) we’ll talk about this later.

Dick Grayson looks slightly distraught and a little confused. Alfred, sensing this, puts a reassuring but trembling hand on his shoulder.

Alfred: Don’t worry about Master Bruce…I think I may have troubled him with this subject. It’s not any of your doing, Master Richard. (sighs) I’ll tell you the truth: I think you have it in you, and I think Master Bruce feels the same way too.

Dick Grayson understands and smiles.

Dick Grayson: (smiles slightly) Alright Alfred.

Cut to –

INT. PENA DURO PRISON HALLWAY CONT.

The prison hallway is very much dilapidated, with yellowing walls and flaking paint. The only signs of modern day technology are the complex locks and the secure doors of cells that hold highly wanted criminals in this wing of the maximum security prison. A lone prison warden holding a newspaper walks past the cells, heading towards one at the very end. We see the door open, but what lies inside is not at all clear.

Prison Warden: (In Spanish) Here’s your paper. (Shrugs) Don’t get why you don’t read the local ones anyway.

The camera turns to reveal who the warden is speaking to – a grotesquely muscular figure, bolted to the prison wall and with a peculiar – almost sinister - system of tubes carrying a substance networked around his body, leading into his masked head.

Bane: (In Spanish) Just give me the newspaper and get out of here.

Prison Warden: (In Spanish) be happy they allow you this luxury, and don’t pick on me either.

The Prison Warden thrusts the paper into his face. Bane examines the English headlines: EXCLUSIVE FROM GOTHAM CITY: FIRST PICTURES OF THE “FLORONIC MAN” – CRIMINAL DOCTOR’S SHOCKING APPEARANCE AFTER ENCOUNTER WITH BATMAN.

Bane: (In Spanish) (Growling) Batman…many things I’ve heard about him…how he terrorizes by fear…

Prison Warden: (In Spanish) Much like you used to in this prison…why they bolted you up in the first place…

Bane: (In Spanish) The Demon Bat who haunts my dreams…I’m going to Gotham to find out more.

Prison Warden: (In Spanish) (laughs) What makes you think I’m letting you out?

Bane: (In English) You don’t need to.

Prison Warden: (In Spanish) What?

The mysterious substance in the tubes surges and Bane suddenly breaks free from his constraints in one dramatic display of strength. The Prison Warden is taken aback.

Prison Warden: (In Spanish) (confused and afraid) They were supposed to hold you…

Bane: (In English) Supposed.

Bane grabs hold of the warden before he can call for backup, then mercilessly slams him into the ground. The other prisoners, hearing this commotion, all start yelling in Spanish for Bane for to free them.

Bane: (In Spanish) Inferior fools.

Bane runs, slamming his full force into the side wall of his prison cell. The camera cuts to -

EXT. OUTSIDE PENA DURO PRISON

The Prison guards scramble to secure the area outside the prison, but they are all a step behind the burly figure. Bane moves with surprising agility, accompanying his strength. He stops short of the electric fence, briefly studying how he can overcome this obstacle. Bane then ducks into a ditch, dug by desperate prisoners long ago.

Bane: (Quietly to self) (In English) Never thought I’d be using the same ditch dug by desperate convicts…

A prison guard, dressed in metallic armour shines a torch in the direction of Bane’s hiding place, seemingly noticing something.

Armoured Prison Guard: (In Spanish) Hello? The prison guard draws his standard issue revolver and points it in the direction of Bane, as he steps forward cautiously.

BANE’S POV:

Armoured Prison Guard: (In Spanish) (Speaking into radio) I may have found him…over here…

Bane hears – and sees – all of this from the ditch, but takes no action. When the guard steps close to the fence, Bane suddenly rises from the ditch and in one strong movement takes the guard with his hands, slamming him into the electric fence full force. The guard attempts to shout for help, but is overcome by the shock. The shock has partially fused his armour to the fence, the rest of his unconscious form hanging limply. Bane admires his handiwork for a second, and then runs off to another hiding place. More prison guards arrive, accompanied by bloodhounds. They see their colleague fused to the electric fence.

Prison Guard 1: (In Spanish) (Speaking into radio) we have discovered Armoured Prison Guard (reading off armour plate) C-31 fused into the electric fence. Requesting deactivation of the fence to extricate victim.

Voice Over Radio: (In Spanish) What? Are you crazy? Deactivate the fence? He got himself into this mess, we can’t compromise prison security.

Prison Guard 1: (In Spanish) (Speaking into radio) Please sir, we might be able to save him. We have the equipment coming soon. And you don’t need to deactivate the other one.

Two more guards arrive carrying a toolbox and a medical kit.

Voice Over Radio: (In Spanish) (sighs) Okay…just for a few minutes! Better make sure our fugitive does not escape.

Prison Guard 1: (In Spanish) (Speaking into radio) Thank you sir.

A series of alarms sounds, signalling the deactivation of the fence to the guards. They stand at the ready, in order to prevent any convicts from escaping during this crucial moment of weakness. With a mechanical buzz, the fence is deactivated and the team quickly gets to work extricating their injured colleague from his armour. Some distance away, Bane takes advantage of this moment of weakness planned all along, and crashes through the fence with his full strength and into the concrete wall behind it. This concrete wall houses sentry towers at each corner, and the guards feel the shock. He discovers another electric fence he never knew existed. This time, five more guards emerge from camouflaged hatches in the prison grounds, ready to apprehend Bane.

INT. PRISON SECUTRITY CONTROL ROOM

The control room bears some semblance of comfort, and is filled with high technology. The head of security observes the happenings through video screens and thick observation glass.

Security Head: (In Spanish) (Through microphone) That’s right men, get him!

The security head than reactivates the electric fence, trapping Bane in two layers of electricity. On both sides he is faced with heavily armed guards.

Bane: (In Spanish) Interesting efforts.

Bane instinctively punches at the rest of the concrete, repeatedly.

Security Head: (In Spanish) (Through microphone) That’s it! Deadly force authorized! Evacuate the sentry towers immediately!

INT. SENTRY TOWER

Sentry Guard 1: (In Spanish) Whoa! You feel that?

Sentry Guard 2: (In Spanish) It’s the escaped fugitive, the one with the steroids pumped into his head!

Voice From Below: (In Spanish) Get down! He’s breaking the wall!

Sentry Guard 1: (In Spanish) that’s ridicul...

A strong rumble interrupts the Sentry Guard’s words. The other guard is already scrambling down the access hatch.

EXT. BELOW SENTRY TOWER

Several snipers have gathered and are attempting to shoot at Bane, readying their weapons. Before they can take aim, Bane fells the weakened concrete structure, grunting heavily, pushing half towards the prison and half the other direction. This takes out both electric fences and collapses into most of the prison itself. Plenty of commotion is audible. Bane takes advantage of the mess to escape from the compound.

EXT. PENA DURO PRISON GARAGE

Bane runs into the garage, stealing one of the police motorcycles and driving off.

INT. SANTA PRISCA SLUMS

Bane’s stolen motorcycle winds through the dilapidated slums of Santa Prisca, as the poverty-ridden citizens warily look on. As the camera follows the motorcycle, Bane slowly arrives in the more opulent half of the island, headed towards the docks.

EXT. SANTA PRISCA DOCKS

Bane sizes up a massive luxury cruise liner, the Madison Julie. He dismounts his motorcycle and climbs up the side of the cruise liner unnoticed.

INT. MADISON JULIE LIFEBOAT DECK

Bane climbs on board the deck, snooping among the lifeboats. He comes across a deck worker.

Deck Worker: Hey! What are you…?

Bane grabs the deck worker, coolly snapping his neck and tossing him overboard. He then hides in one of the lifeboats, hiding under the tarp. Soon, sirens are audible.

EXT. SANTA PRISCA DOCKS

Police coastguard speedboats begin encircling the cruise liner and other craft around the docks, alerted to Bane’s presence.

Coast Guard officer: (over loudspeaker) (In Spanish) All boat-owners, please do not exit the docks. We are searching for a wanted fugitive. Please do not be alarmed.

A coastguard speedboat swerves next to the Madison Julie, right under the lifeboat deck.

INT. POLICE COASTGUARD SPEEDBOAT (OFFICER’S POV)

A lifeboat comes tumbling down, in slow motion, from the deck of the cruise liner, crushing the speedboat and the policemen in it. The other coast guard personnel on the other speedboats go into frenzy, immediately circling the cruise liner, pointing their guns upwards. Bane jumps onto one of the speedboats, crushing a section of the boat and tossing the guards overboard, after punching them each. He then assumes control of the speedboat, speeding off and winding around the other speedboats. The coast guard personnel persist in shooting at him, but because of the speed he is unable to aim straight.

INT. MADISON JULIE COMMAND BRIDGE

Captain: We’ve got to move off, or else we will be behind schedule.

Assistant Captain: But you heard what the coast guard guy said…we can’t move off. In fact, this missing lifeboat may have something to do with it (points to monitor display)

Captain: Missing lifeboat? Never mind, it’s been a while already. Just go ahead.

Assistant Captain: Okay sir…

EXT. MADISON JULIE STERN

The ships large propellers begin to spin. Meanwhile, Bane leads the pursuing personnel towards these large spinning propellers. At the last possible moment, he veers off, misleading the coast guard boats right into the propellers. The anguished faces of the personnel are visible, though they have realised this too late. The boats splinter into wood, metal and glass, consumed by the propellers. The screams of those on board can be heard as well. Bane smiles slightly and jumps back onto the moving cruise liner as the boat he commandeered gets sucked into the propellers as well. He then climbs back onto the lifeboat deck, hiding under the tarp of another lifeboat. The camera follows the cruise liner as it disappears into the mist.

INT. THE BATCAVE

Alfred, Bruce Wayne and Dick Grayson are gathered around the Batcomputer.

Bruce Wayne: I’ve given it some thought, and Alfred and I have decided to offer you this opportunity.

Alfred: For lack of a better word, how would you like to be…a sidekick?

Dick Grayson: (eyes light up) A sidekick?

Bruce Wayne: To work alongside me, yes. You have skills that, if honed properly, can be put to great use on the mean streets. Heck, I’ll admit there are some areas in which you best me, especially when it comes to your acrobatic skills.

Alfred: Though I do have to warn you, Master Bruce’s work is no joke, with very little dividends…

Bruce Wayne: Besides bringing criminals to justice, of course.

Dick Grayson: Good enough for me.

Alfred: Then of course, we need a name.

Bruce Wayne: Just as I adopted “Batman”.

Dick Grayson: How about Robin? My parents had that nickname for me.

Bruce Wayne: Batman and Robin…sounds like a bad film. Anyway…

Alfred: (smiles) with the right costume, it just might work.

Bruce Wayne: Right. Let’s get to work then.

A montage of Dick’s training begins. The camera moves around Dick and Bruce in combat, employing various martial arts techniques. An ice pick penetrates a foam wall, as the camera zooms out to reveal Bruce and Dick scaling a simulated wall of ice. Dick somersaults into a pool of water, while Bruce Wayne observes. Bruce throws a batarang at a target, a move which Dick perfectly imitates. Dick examines a simulated crime scene, gathering evidence as he would in an actual scenario. Dick pores over various books covering subjects related to crime-fighting. Dick struggles for a gas mask in a simulated gassing chamber and Bruce stands nearby watching his apprentice. Bruce opens a cupboard of spare parts for his costumes. All three stand over the costume, forging an “R” insignia into the suit and colouring it. The plates are then affixed onto an undershirt measured to fit its wearer. Alfred clasps a gauntlet around Dick’s arm. Dick puts on his costume for the first time. He smiles.

Bruce Wayne: It’s been a while now, and I’m proud to say you’re ready. Not surprisingly, the training was minimal enough, and you’ve made it through. Congratulations, Dick, or should I call you…

Dick Grayson: (smiles)…Robin.

EXT. MADISON JULIE

The cruise liner is well into its journey. Bane is still hiding in one of the lifeboats. As the sip nears the American west coast, Bane lowers the lifeboat into the water. As it touches the water, he stops and thinks. To provide a valid reason for the absence of his lifeboat, he delivers a strong punch to the hull of the ship. He continues this until the hull integrity is dramatically weakened.

INT. MADISON JULIE COMMAND BRIDGE

Assistant Captain: Sir, we’re receiving unknown damage to the hull. It’s becoming increasingly serious.

Captain: Let me have a look at that (peers into computer display). This is strange indeed.

Assistant Captain: Apparently, one lifeboat has already been lowered.

Captain: Wasn’t there a missing lifeboat earlier in the trip?

Assistant Captain: This is a different one, sir. I believe the risk presented is sufficient for us to call an evacuation, and lower all the rest of them.

Captain: Agreed. Sound the alarms and call the passengers to the lifeboat decks immediately.

EXT. MADISON JULIE PORTSIDE

There is a frenzy of activity as the lifeboats are quickly lowered from the sinking ship. Bane is already far enough from the ship, approaching Gotham Docks.

INT. MADISON JULIE COMMAND BRIDGE

Assistant Captain: (wearing life vest and running towards the lifeboat decks) At least we’re pretty nearby land. Gotham docks is a few miles off.

Captain: (doing the same) All the better then. I’m one captain who’s not going down with the ship

Assistant Captain: I’ve never seen anything like this before. What do you suppose caused the damage?

Captain: Let’s talk in the lifeboat, shall we?

EXT. MADISON JULIE

The last of the lifeboats are lowered, as the ship begins to sink dramatically, breaking in half at the point where Bane had shredded its hull.

INT. GORDON’S OFFICE

Commissioner Gordon sits at his office sipping coffee while watching the evening news.

News Reporter: (on television) The luxury cruise liner Madison Julie has mysteriously sunk off the coast of Gotham Docks. At this time, the exact details of the incident are not known, though it is estimated that the majority of the passengers and crew have escaped safely. Apparently, two lifeboats were reported missing before the sinking. Criminal analysts suspect a connection to the recent escape of Bane, a criminal held in the maximum security Pena Duro prison in Santa Prisca, from which the cruise liner originated. Gotham police and coast guard are currently helping to organize the passengers who have survived the sinking.

Gordon turns off the television and dials a number on his phone.

EXT. GOTHAM DOCKS

Detective Renee Montoya picks up her ringing cellular phone.

Renee Montoya: Hello?

Commissioner Gordon: (over the phone) Renee? I was just watching the news. Keep an eye on the survivors, and if this “Bane” character is one of them, don’t let him escape.

Renee Montoya: Sir? I don’t quite follow.

Commissioner Gordon: He’s an escapee from Pena Duro Prison and is believed to have caused the sinking of the ship.

Renee Montoya: Why would he do that? And how?

Commissioner Gordon: My guess is to distract us from what he’s really about to do, whatever that is. Also, he seems to have super-human powers according to prison personnel. He apparently received genetic enhancements that were supposed to kill him.

Renee Montoya: If that’s the case Sir, we have a lot more on our hands.

Commissioner Gordon: All I know is we don’t want him running around Gotham.

Renee Montoya: Will do sir.

Renee puts down her phone and walks towards a police temporary shelter with the news.

EXT. GOTHAM ALLEYWAY

The camera follows Bane, on a stolen motorcycle, winding his way through the quiet streets. He turns into a narrow alleyway, dismounts the bike and enters a dilapidated apartment building.

Walking up the stairs, he comes to a door and rings the doorbell.

INT. APARTMENT UNIT BEDROOM

A young, Hispanic woman wakes up, glances at the clock and then dresses in a bathrobe, proceeding to check who is outside the door.

EXT. OUTSIDE APARTMENT UNIT

The door opens. The woman rubs her eyes, and then stands in shock.

Maria: Antonio?

Bane: Nobody’s called me that for so long.

The couple passionately embraces.

Maria: I saw it on the news…

Bane: The cruise liner?

Maria:…but I never expected you to turn up at my doorstep. How’d you find me?

The pair enters the apartment unit.

Bane: Old-fashioned research.

Maria: I missed you…I thought I was never going to see you again.

Bane: I thought the same too…I was just happy back then that they released you.

Maria: It still hasn’t been easy…a prisoner living in a free world.

Bane: Anything is easy compared to Pena Duro, Maria. You’ve managed well…and you still look as beautiful as I remember.

Maria: Don’t be silly Antonio…

Bane: Anyway, I needed someplace where I can be safe, and someone who can help me. Where the police won’t come looking for me. That’s why I came here.

Maria: Why did you come to Gotham anyway? I’m sure it wasn’t only because of me.

Bane: Don’t flatter yourself Maria.

Maria: (shrugs) I try not to.

Bane: I’ve been meaning to come here for a while…this Batman…I believe he is the Demon Bat who haunts my dreams.

Maria: The nightmares you’ve been having since you were young…

Bane: Yes. Also, I have to avenge something terrible Batman has done.

Maria: Are you talking about Dr Woodrue? He was never kind to you in the first place.

Bane: When he worked at Pena Duro…he was the one who made me what I am. I’ve become so much. I think I owe him something.

Maria: You became a monster…now he’s become one too. I think you shouldn’t waste your time.

Bane: Look. I need you to help me here. I will deduce the identity of whoever this Batman is, but I need your help.

Maria: (sighs) I suppose… (smiles) anyway, I’ve never had company in a while…I wouldn’t mind you sleeping in.

The couple embraces and kisses again

Bane: You have an extra bed?

Maria: Not that I’d want you sleeping in one. I’m sure you can squeeze into mine.

Bane: (smiles) I’d love to.

The bedroom door closes.

INT. BATCAVE

Bruce, Dick and Alfred all watch the news being replayed on the giant Batcomputer screen. Bruce then sits down and interfaces with the Batcomputer, researching something. A blinking Bat-Signal in the corner of the Batcomputer monitor indicates that Batman is wanted.

Alfred: A meeting with the Commissioner, Master Bruce?

Bruce Wayne: Something to do with this recent incident, no doubt.

Dick: Can I come along? I’ve already been training for three days.

Bruce Wayne: I’d rather you take a break. It’s been a long night for you.

Bruce walks over to the costume section and suits up.

Dick: Come back soon.

Alfred: Don’t worry about Master Bruce. As for you, it’s time for bed.

Batman gets into the Batmobile and zooms out through the waterfall and into the night.

EXT. GCPD HEADQUARTERS ROOF

The Bat-signal has been activated and Commissioner Gordon stands next to it, scanning the skies for any sign of Batman. Batman appears right behind him.

Commissioner Gordon: Another busy night.

Batman: And another madman.

Commissioner Gordon: This whole thing is making my head spin. If some criminal wants to escape, why choose Gotham? And why take a cruise liner down with him? The fact that he’s supposedly got superpowers of some kind makes it all the more bizarre.

Batman: Exactly what I was thinking. I’ve been doing some research and everything sort of adds up. No real name is stated. This Bane character was put in Pena Duro to serve his father’s sentence after he died.

Commissioner Gordon: People do those things?

Batman: Unfortunately yes. The database says he became too powerful and too intelligent, ruling as a “king” of the prison.

Commissioner Gordon: Where do the superpowers come in?

Batman: I’m not all that sure. What I do know is that he received genetic enhancements of some kind which had killed all previous test subjects, but made him stronger.

Commissioner Gordon: So what ties him to Gotham?

Batman: I haven’t been able to find out yet. I’m guessing that he has some contacts here, maybe personnel who were ex-convicts at Pena Duro. His psychological profile states that he’s been having nightmares of a “demon bat” ever since he was a boy. (pauses to think) That’s exactly what Dr Woodrue called me that night.

Commissioner Gordon: You mean that Floronic Man? What could he have to do with Bane?

Batman: Maybe that’s something for you to look into.

Batman reaches into his utility belt and produces a thumb drive.

Batman: I’ve compiled everything else into this. Have a look at it sometime, run some names through your database.

Commissioner Gordon retrieves the device and turns it around in his hands. Commissioner Gordon: Right. I’ll tell you when…

Gordon turns around to find Batman has disappeared.

Commissioner Gordon: (sighs) I do hate it when he does that.

INT. BATCAVE

The Batmobile returns back into the cave. Batman steps out and removes his cowl.

Alfred: So how did the meeting with Gordon go, Sir?

Bruce Wayne: I’m going to be spending the rest of tonight doing some research.

Alfred: (sighs) Very well then Sir.

Bruce Wayne: I’m going to see how good this piece of work is at throwing up helpful coincidences.

Bruce Wayne gets to work on the Batcomputer.

INT. MARIA’S APARTMENT – THE NEXT DAY

Maria begins to awake, sitting up in her bed and drawing the sheets close to her. Bane is already up and getting dressed.

Bane: Thanks for letting me stay the night.

Maria: As long as you want to, Antonio

She pulls him near and they kiss passionately.

Maria: So, what’s on the agenda today, my lovely fugitive?

Bane: Tonight…I bait the Bat.

Maria: Do I come along?

Bane: No. It might be too dangerous. You can, however help me with some reading up.

Maria: That happens to be my specialty.

Maria slips out of bed and gets dressed. Bane admires her form, while we see her from behind.

Maria: (smiles) but first, breakfast. And do stop ogling. Bane: (smiles) Can’t help it.

INT. GORDON’S OFFICE

Commissioner Gordon taps away at the keyboard while looking through the files passed to him by Batman the night before.

Renee Montoya: What’s this, Commissioner?

Commissioner Gordon: Some information that’s been compiled for me by a…reliable source.

Renee Montoya: The Batman, sir?

Commissioner Gordon: If they’re steroid-pumped supervillains running through Gotham, you can rest assured Batman will be pulled into the mix. He’s been helpful thus far…

Renee Montoya: This sounds like something big.

Commissioner Gordon: Something even the Batman can’t handle on his own… I hope he’s got a sidekick somewhere in the wings of that cave.

INT. WAYNE MANOR DINING HALL

Bruce Wayne and Dick Grayson are sitting down to breakfast.

Alfred: Good morning sirs. How did the research go last evening, Master Bruce?

Bruce Wayne: A few unsettling facts have been unearthed. (Turns to Dick Grayson) Soon, you’ll be out there working alongside me.

Dick Grayson: Yes!

Bruce Wayne and Alfred glare at the young charge.

Dick Grayson: I know…it’s serious work…could get myself into serious danger…facing criminally insane madmen.

Bruce Wayne: I’m glad you’re aware. But I didn’t train you for no reason, and you’re ready. I’d like you to come along as soon as the alarm is raised.

Dick Grayson: Are we going to confront this Bane guy?

Bruce Wayne: I’d want to hope not, but that’s likely enough. You’ll have a look at the info later today.

Dick Grayson: A muscle-bound freakshow…doesn’t sound too bad to me.

Bruce Wayne: He’s both immensely strong and very intelligent. You’ll – we’ll – need to be very careful.

INT. BATCAVE – THAT NIGHT

An alarm indicating that Batman is needed sounds.

Batman: Just as I thought. Robin! Suit up!

Robin: (pulling on his mask) I’m on it!

Both jump into the Batmobile as it speeds off into the night.

INT. BATMOBILE

Batman: What is it Commissioner?

Commissioner Gordon: (over Batmobile monitor) It appears that there’s been a break-in at Wayne Industries R&D.

Batman: Of all places.

Commissioner Gordon: I see you’ve brought along the sidekick.

Batman: Commissioner, meet Robin.

Robin: Good evening, Sir.

Commissioner Gordon: (chuckles) Nice chap. I have a daughter around his age.

Batman: Matchmaking already?

Commissioner Gordon: Anyway, you’d better hurry. I believe the perp is Bane.

Batman: Just as I suspected.

Commissioner Gordon: Apparently he’s already taken out most of the Wayne Enterprises security in that area. I’ve sent some of my men there.

Batman: Good.

EXT. WE HEADQUARTERS

Police vans and SWAT units surround the building, while two police helicopters hover around it cautiously. A police helicopter comes close to the side of the building, shining its blinding searchlight into the vicinity.

INT. WE HEADQUARTERS

Bane brings his arm up to shield himself from the light. Once he realises that a police helicopter is out the window, he punches through the glass. The helicopter tries to back away, but the windscreen is shattered. Bane then forcefully pulls the pilot out of the helicopter. The chopper inadvertently rams into the side of the building and explodes.

INT. BATMOBILE

Batman: We have a lot on our hands this evening.

Robin: Then let’s get going.

The canopy of the Batmobile slides forward and the duo are propelled into the air by jetpacks built into the seats. The police personnel look up, pointing and shouting.

INT. WE HEADQUARTERS

Batman and Robin remove their jetpack apparatus. Batman puts a finger to his lips, and produces a gadget, scanning the area in front of them. He points forward and activates his night-vision goggles. Robin nods and does the same.

INT. LABORATORY

(Batman’s POV) we see a biochemist’s laboratory in harsh night-vision. Robin scans the area and alerts Batman to a particular spot. A safe marked “plant-metahuman DNA sample” has been destroyed, and the contents emptied out.

Batman: (realizing) The serum Dr Woodrue invented…

Robin: You mean Bane has this stuff now?

Batman: I’m afraid so…but we can still make it.

The pair bolt out of the lab door and into another laboratory, the one Lucius Fox brought them to see a few days ago. The lights suddenly come on. (Batman’s POV) Batman is momentarily blinded and struggles to deactivate his night-vision goggles.

Robin: Batman! Look out!

Bane rushes in, seemingly out of nowhere, grabbing hold of Batman and smashing him into the laboratory walls.

Bane: Demon Bat! It’s an honour to finally meet you.

Batman: What do you want with me?

Bane: What I want… (Holds up the vial of serum) …I already have. But what you did to Dr Woodrue I cannot accept.

Batman: What has that got to do with you anyway?

Bane: Dr Woodrue turned me into what I am today…you left him deformed and unrecognizable.

Batman: He didn’t care for you at all.

Bane: That much I agree with you. But how can I hate a man who has given me such powers? That is why I’ve decided to help him. You got him into this mess. So with the life of this…boy here you will pay.

Bane grabs hold of Robin, screaming. He opens the lid of the pressure simulator and throws him in. Robin hits the water, struggling to get out.

Batman: Robin…

Bane toggles the instruments by the pressure simulator, adjusting the pressure. Robin’s face shows his agony as his lungs begin to be crushed by the pressure. Bane smiles.

Bane: There is no way you can save him now, but I’ll leave you to try. Until then…

Bane punches a hole in the wall and leaps out of the building, crushing a few cars under him. He then jumps onto a modified motorcycle and prepares to take of.

Lucius Fox (in flashback): An intense pulsar wave…

Batman, remembering Fox’s words, pulls out a gadget from his utility belt and throws it at the strengthened glass. The device attaches itself to the simulation chamber. A pulsar wave is emitted and the glass warps slightly, before shattering and releasing torrents of water. Robin slides out, coughing. Batman feels his pulse, and then performs CPR on a barely conscious Robin. He then attaches a mask to Robin’s face.

Batman: This will regulate the pressure. Just relax.

Batman, carrying Robin in his arms, then jumps out of the window and onto the waiting Batmobile, elevated via hydraulics. He seats Robin by his side, and returns the vehicle to regular height. Batman begins pursuing Bane.

EXT. GOTHAM STREET

The Batmobile whizzes around a corner, as stunned onlookers point at the vehicle. Turning on to the freeway, Batman spots Bane’s motorcycle just ahead. A police helicopter joins the Batmobile at the scene, keeping its searchlights trained on Bane.

INT. BATMOBILE

Batman: Why must there always be a chase? This isn’t some cut-rate action flick, Alfred

Alfred: (over cowl radio) It almost turned into action-horror as far as I’m concerned, Master Bruce.

Batman: Quite right.

Robin begins to awake.

Robin: Where…am I?

Batman: In the Batmobile. Bane almost drowned you and crushed your lungs.

Robin: Where is he now?

Batman: Right in front of us.

EXT. GOTHAM FREEWAY

The Batmobile winds around a few vehicles, pulling up behind Bane’s motorcycle. Bane suddenly swings the motorcycle beside the Batmobile. INT. BATMOBILE:

Bane, now just outside the Batmobile, raises a hand in greeting.

Batman: What the…

EXT. BATMOBILE

Bane delivers a strong punch through the glass of the Batmobile’s side window.

INT. BATMOBILE

Batman gasps as Bane’s hand tightens around his throat. Batman immediately adjusts the throttle so the Batmobile is at the same speed as Bane’s motorcycle. He then struggles, attempting to loosen his assailant’s grip.

Robin: Batman!

Bane begins to pull Batman out of the vehicle through the side window. Batman grunts in pain, the breath nearly knocked out of him completely. Robin reaches into his own utility belt and produces a birdarang. He plunges the sharp weapon into Bane’s arm. Bane grunts and lets go of Batman’s throat slightly. Robin shoves Bane’s hand out of the vehicle window. Robin then adjusts the throttle so the Batmobile speeds past Bane, and then activates the autopilot as Batman sits unconscious.

Robin: We all take turns to get knocked out, huh?

Robin searches the dashboard for a button. He then presses it, and a medical harness drops down from the ceiling. He attaches it to Batman and it delivers 100% Oxygen, whilst pumping on Batman’s chest. Having attended to Batman, Robin then keys “Batcave” into the destination computer. The Batmobile reacts, and steers itself back.

Robin: I suppose that’s enough for now.

INT. BATCAVE

The Batmobile arrives in the cave. Batman and Robin emerge from the vehicle, dazed.

Alfred: I suppose you had a rough night, sirs?

Robin: Beginner’s luck…

Batman: Or lack thereof. At least now we know full well what we’re up against.

Alfred: Indeed. I suggest that the two of you get some rest before you go up against this Bane again.

INT. MARIA’S APARTMENT

Bane enters through the door. Maria, in a bathrobe, greets him.

Maria: Antonio! How did it go?

Bane: Well enough.

Maria: You’ll be pleased to know that while you were out, I’ve gathered some very interesting results…on the possible identity of the Batman.

Bane: This might help you: he was with…an apprentice of sorts. I nearly killed him, but he is rather skilled. I’d guess 12 or 13 years of age.

Maria: (smiles) Interesting. Come over here…

The pair goes into her study where she has been doing the research.

Maria: Using information available to anybody, I was able to shortlist the candidates down to one name.

Bane: For sure?

Maria: Have a look for yourself. First, I had a look at Gotham’s mainframe and whittled it down to the male population. From there, I got the 68% who fitted the Batman’s possible age of 18-35.

Bane: Good. Go on.

Maria: Then, only Gotham’s economical elite would be able to acquire the advanced gadgetry that Batman employs.

Bane: And of course, every vigilante of his sort must have a valid origin.

Maria: Precisely. I then checked the records for a personal tragedy in the lives of any one of the candidates. It turns out (pulls out a newspaper clipping) that only a certain Bruce Wayne had an experience of this sort.

Bane: (reading off the print) “Thomas and Martha Wayne murdered…”

Maria: And what you just mentioned about a young apprentice bodes well with this more recent snippet.

Bane reads off the computer, showing the Gotham Globe’s archive.

Bane: “Gotham’s ‘Most Eligible’ Adopts”…

Maria: So?

Bane: (smiles) I think we have our man.

Maria: Aren’t you going to thank me?

Bane: I suppose I’ll shower first.

Maria: (smiles) Right. I’ll be waiting.

INT. BATCAVE

Batman: You’ve done a good job tonight, Dick.

Dick Grayson: I did nearly get killed.

Batman: (smiles) Another thing I’m sure you’ll get used to.

Dick Grayson: (sarcastically) Yippee.

Batman removes his cowl and sits down at the Batcomputer.

Bruce Wayne: You go catch some sleep. I’ll be up soon.

Dick Grayson: Thanks. See you in the morning Alfred.

Alfred: Goodnight, Master Dick.

Suddenly a wave flashes across the Batcomputer screen.

Bruce Wayne: It’s the Commissioner.

He hurries to put on his cowl.

Commissioner Gordon: (over Batcomputer screen) You did well tonight. Don’t worry about him escaping.

Batman: The last thing on everyone’s mind, I’m sure.

Commissioner Gordon: (chuckles) Anyway, I’ve got interesting news to report.

Batman: About his ties to Dr Woodrue? I already know: he stole the DNA sample from his weapon to reverse-engineer a cure.

Commissioner Gordon: Well, we guessed the same. The real news is this: it seems as if Bane may be taking shelter with an ex-convict from Pena Duro, released two years ago.

Batman: Name?

Commissioner Gordon: We only have a first name: Maria.

Batman: A woman?

Commissioner Gordon: We suppose they are romantically connected.

Batman: She’d have to be pretty warped to fall for him.

Commissioner Gordon: You know what regular prison does to people, what more Pena Duro.

Batman: Indeed. Is she the only possible associate he has?

Commissioner Gordon: The most likely. He spent his whole life in the prison, and she’s the only ex-convict living here in Gotham.

Batman: Why was she put in?

Commissioner Gordon: The file says she’s an explosives and firearms expert, and has a genius-level IQ. The Santa Prisca police employed her to do administration for their bomb squad when she was just 16, fresh out of school. The next year she blew the headquarters up, for no apparent reason.

Batman: Where in Gotham is she staying?

Commissioner Gordon: We’ve got the place on surveillance and I’m planning to send two SWAT teams in tomorrow night. Everyone’s tied up with the incident at Wayne Enterprises.

Batman: (nods) That sounds good.

Commissioner Gordon: Don’t mind me, but I’d rather you not turn up. It could complicate matters.

Batman: I understand. Just be careful, I’m very sure they were expecting this sooner or later.

Commissioner Gordon: Of course. You take care. Batman: Goodnight, Commissioner.

The image of the Commissioner dissolves.

Alfred: Do you think they can root him out, Sir?

Batman: I hope so, but doubt it. He was careful not to tell me where the house is.

Alfred: Pardon me Sir, but as it says in the Good Book: “Unless the Lord guards the house, the watchman stays awake in vain”.

Batman: Isn’t that the same passage which says “For the Lord gives his beloved sleep?”

Alfred: You know what I mean sir.

Batman: (sighs) you’re right.

Batman proceeds into the changing area to remove his Batsuit, and Alfred proceeds up into Wayne Manor proper.

Batman: Masked Souls Part 3
Batman: Masked Souls Part 4
Batman: Masked Souls Part 5
Batman: Masked Souls Part 6
Batman: Masked Souls Part 7