Prey
By Michael Crichton
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    #319
    In the Playstation game Dino Crisis, one of the characters (Rick) makes reference to Jurassic Park when he says "This is just like that movie." (From: Otakon)
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    Batman Genesis Part 1
    By Seth Rex

    DARKNESS FILLS THE SCREEN..... SILENCE... THE TENSION BUILDS... THE SOUND OF FLAPPING BATS IS HEARD... NOISE GETS LOUDER... BATS SURROUND THE AUIDIENCE'S EARS...

    TITLE: BATMAN GENESIS. The titles are suddenly overtaken by vines wrapping themselves around the letters, pulling the letters down into the darkness. The vines overtake the black screen, pulling the black inside as well as the screen goes completely white, taking us to...

    EXT. SIBERIA - DAY

    The cold wind blows the snow in the Siberian Mountains. A man is slowly making his way through the endless land of snow. He wraps his cloak around him to conceal his bruised and bloody body. His hair is black with white streaks on the side. He has a fu man chew. He sighs as he slowly keeps trudging along. This is RA’S AL GHUL.

    RÂ'S AL GHÛL (V.O.)
    Defeat... A word that is so foreign
    To me, that thought it didn’t
    Exist.

    Râ’s al Ghûl falls to the ground. He breathes heavily and groans from his pain.

    RÂ'S AL GHÛL (CONT'D. V.O.)
    Darkness consumes me... I have
    Finally been defeated. For over 600
    Years I have tried to save the
    World from the ravishes that
    Humankind have done to the once
    Beautiful planet...

    EXT. MONTAGE OF SCENES - DAY OR NIGHT

    Râ's al Ghûl travels alongside NAPOLEON.

    RÂ'S AL GHÛL (CONT'D. V.O.)
    I discussed the nature of
    Physicality with Napoleon.

    Râ's al Ghûl watches over LEONARDO DI VINCI as he paints the MONA LISA.

    RÂ'S AL GHÛL (CONT'D. V.O.)
    Then learned the beauty of the arts
    With Di Vinci.

    Râ's al Ghûl kisses CLEOPATRA as AUGUSTUS CEASER rushes into the room, seeing the two in their compromising position. They both have a sword fight in the temple. Cleopatra is horrified.

    RÂ'S AL GHÛL (CONT'D. V.O.)
    I even fought with some of the
    Greatest fighters in the world.

    Râ's al Ghûl also is seen fighting with ACHILLES on the sands.

    RÂ'S AL GHÛL (CONT'D. V.O.)
    But nothing could've prepared me
    For the horrors that I would
    Experience in Germany.

    Râ's al Ghûl watches in horror as the NAZIS practically toss JEWS into the gas chambers, killing them, while other Jews are taken out of other gas chambers. ADOLPH HITLER stands at Râ's al Ghûl's side, placing a hand on Râ's' shoulder. Râ's looks on in disgust.

    RÂ'S AL GHÛL (CONT'D. V.O.)
    And in his last hour...

    Râ's al Ghûl and Hitler are in a bunker as the battle during WWII intensifies. Hitler is sweating as he can feel the end coming. He pulls out a gun, ready to shoot himself. Râ's quickly takes the gun from him and pulls out his hidden sword from his cane and pulls it up to Hitler's neck. Several Nazis try to stop him, but Râ's points the gun in their direction.

    HITLER
    Do you mean to kill me, Râ's al
    Ghûl? You have not got the guts!
    You are weak!

    RÂ'S AL GHÛL
    The only one that is weak is a man
    That shows no regard for life... a
    Man that cannot see that what he
    Has done is wrong... You were a
    Fool for challenging the United
    States and having Japan bomb their
    Pearl Harbor. I was a fool for
    Following you as long as I did. You
    Are without vision or insight. It
    Is because of people like you that
    Corruption exists and it is because
    Of you that I must take charge
    Before the planet is destroyed by
    Imbeciles.

    Râ's makes one quick stroke to kill, but stops suddenly Hitler shows no fear.

    RÂ'S AL GHÛL (CONT'D.)
    You would've made an interesting
    Ninja.

    Râ's pulls over the gun and shoots Hitler. He falls to the ground. The Nazis attack him as his back was turned.
    END MONTAGE:

    EXT. SIBERIA - DAY

    Râ's al Ghûl stands back up slowly. He tries to continue moving.

    RÂ'S AL GHÛL (V.O.)
    I cannot give up. I have come too
    Far and lasted over too many
    Decades to have my vision
    Destroyed. Only the strong can
    Survive and I must be strong, if
    Not for myself, then for my
    Daughter, for my League of
    Assassins, for the cause of
    Bringing about a second Eden and
    Ending the thoughtless instable
    Destruction that Homo sapiens have
    Brought. I must reach the Lazarus
    Pit before it is too late. They are
    My only hope now.

    A large vehicle is quickly approaching Râ's' position. Râ's narrows his eyes as he looks on weakly. In the vehicle are a young muscular bald man and a very young girl with long flowing black hair.

    RÂ'S AL GHÛL (CONT'D. V.O.)
    My daughter... my dear sweat little
    Daughter, Talia. She is the only
    One of my daughters that I can
    Truly show my love for. All of the
    Others have been failures and I
    Have been unable to sire my own
    Male offspring to continue my
    Legacy once the Pits effects wane.
    However, my gut instinct tells me
    That Talia will accomplish great
    Things and with that she will find
    My male successor... He will be
    Strong... and she will be his
    Wife...

    The camera focuses on the YOUNG TALIA as she looks to her father in the vehicle with concern. WE FLASH CUT TO...

    INT. WAYNE MANOR - BRUCE'S ROOM - EVENING

    BRUCE WAYNE, 10 years old, is sitting on his floor looking at a newspaper. He is focused on a section for the movies playing at the theatre. His eyes light up as he stands quickly and runs out of the room with the paper.

    INT. WAYNE MANOR - DINING ROOM - EVENING

    Bruce Wayne runs to his mother, MARTHA WAYNE, holding the newspaper.
    FADE OUT:

    BRUCE (V.O.)
    I still remember it, like it was
    Yesterday. I asked my mother a Question. It would change my life
    Forever.
    FADE IN:

    INT. WAYNE MANOR - DINING ROOM - EVENING

    We see 10 year old Bruce ask his mother a question concerning the newspaper and we see her look towards her husband, THOMAS WAYNE, who is just walking into the room. He chuckles a bit and nods his head.
    CUT TO:

    EXT. WAYNE MANOR - DRIVE WAY - EVENING

    Their car drives off towards the city. The butler, ALFRED PENNYWORTH, is driving.

    BRUCE (V.O.)
    We were going to see my favorite
    Hero, Zorro, at the movies. I was
    So excited. I had no idea what was
    Yet to come.

    EXT. GOTHAM CITY - EVENING

    Bruce and his parents are walking down the street. Bruce looks up at his father as they both smile. Bruce spots the theatre about a block away and really smiles now. They are going to see 'The Mark of Zorro', which is opening for the first time today.

    INT. GOTHAM CINEMA - EVENING

    The theatre is crowded as they get their seats. Thomas hands Bruce the popcorn that he is holding. As the movie starts, Bruce smiles once again. Zorro is one of his favorite heroes.

    INT. GOTHAM CINEMA - NIGHT

    The crowds let out and we once again see the happy family walking and talking. They try to get patiently through the crowds as moviegoers enter and exit.

    EXT. GOTHAM CITY - NIGHT

    Thomas Wayne leads his family down an alleyway towards a pay phone that he knows is nearby. Bruce looks at his father, a bit nervous. Suddenly a gun is pointed at them as they lurch to a stop. A man is there. His name is JOE CHILL.

    CHILL
    Money and jewelry. Be quick about
    It.

    THOMAS
    Okay. Whatever you want.

    Thomas seems calm as he takes out his wallet and hands it to Joe Chill. He calmly deals with his wife's items and he hands them also to Chill. Suddenly Chill spots something.

    CHILL
    I said Jewelry! The necklace.

    He points the gun at Martha, but Thomas gets in the way, in an attempt to protect her.

    THOMAS
    Calm down there.

    CHILL
    Calm?!

    Chill tries to grab at the jewelry but Thomas struggles with the gun until it goes off. Thomas tenses up until he finally stumbles on the ground. Bruce just stares at him, and then toward the man. The man has had it. He aims and pulls the trigger. Martha just falls to the ground. Chill tries to pull off the necklace. Some of the pearls fall off and hit the ground.

    Chill looks at the kid for a minute. Bruce just looks back at him. There's almost no emotion on Bruce's face. He's stunned about what has just happened. Joe Chill just runs off with the goods. Bruce just stands there. A single tear runs from his left eye.

    BRUCE (V.O.)
    Suddenly, I was all alone. There
    Was no one there to comfort me. No
    One to help take the pain away. I
    Soon realized that I would spend
    The rest of my life the same way
    That I felt then... alone.
    CUT TO:

    INT. POLICE STATION - NIGHT

    Bruce sits near the desk of DETECTIVE ANTHONY GORDON, the father of 20 year old James Gordon. Anthony just looks at him and smiles, although you can almost tell there's a certain sadness to it. Bruce looks at him, sniffing.

    ANTHONY
    Don't worry. We'll find the guy.
    He'll pay for his crimes.

    Bruce nods half-heartedly. He doesn't really understand the workings of the police, but he knows that this man is a good guy. From another side of the police station, Alfred walks in quickly. He is looking around and spots Anthony Gordon. He walks over to him and its here that he notices little Bruce.

    ALFRED
    Oh, thank heavens!

    He is almost ready to cry himself, as he'd feared the worst. He reaches out to Bruce and the poor boy comes and hugs him. Anthony stands up and shakes Alfred's hand.

    ANTHONY
    I would like Bruce to give a
    Testimony as to what he saw, when
    He’s ready.

    Alfred nods his head.

    ALFRED
    Of course.

    Alfred looks down to Bruce, whom in turn, nods his head.

    EXT. GOTHAM CITY - NIGHT

    The car drives out towards Wayne Manor.

    EXT. CEMETERY - WAYNE FUNERAL – RAINING - DAY

    A few people stand near the graves of Thomas and Martha Wayne. Bruce is standing next to Alfred and a woman. Bruce sniffs a bit. He wants to cry but can't. We see the coffins go slowly into their proper graves. After the funeral, the woman, named DR. LESLIE THOMPKINS, kneels to him.

    LESLIE
    I do not know what you’re feeling
    Right now, but you must be strong,
    Young one. You must be strong.

    She gives him a kiss on his forehead, and walks away.
    FADE TO:

    BLACK.

    TITLE CARD: 1 Month Later
    FADE TO:

    EXT. WAYNE MANOR - GARDEN - DAY

    Bruce Wayne looks at the garden. There's something here that he's looking for, but he can't find it at the moment. Suddenly a kid jumps out from behind him and runs out the garden. Bruce turns and follows the kid. It’s his friend, PAMELA ISLEY. She's a cute 9 year old girl with brunette hair.

    Bruce runs after her and smiles as he's gaining on her. A car drives up the main road to Wayne Manor. Bruce looks at the car. He sees a young boy inside the car. He recognizes the boy as HARVEY DENT. The car stops at the mansion's main walkway and stairs, leading to the front door. Alfred walks out and toward the car. A man in his thirties gets out of the car. He is JOHN EVANS, the butler for the Dent’s.

    ALFRED
    Hello, Evans.

    EVANS
    Alfred. The kid's mother says to
    Bring Harvey to you guys. Parents
    Had a big argument. Didn't want the
    Kid around for the more mature
    Situations.

    Alfred nods his head. Harvey steps out of the car. He looks at the huge mansion.

    INT. WAYNE MANOR - DINING ROOM - DAY

    The 3 kids are sitting at the table. Bruce sits in his usual spot, at the front of the table since he is the man of the house now. They are waiting for Alfred to bring them a meal. Bruce looks at Harvey. Harvey just sits there, almost silent. Pamela swings her legs. Alfred brings out some baked chicken and mashed potatoes for the kids.

    BRUCE
    So... What should we do today?

    PAMELA
    Let’s explore!

    Harvey just looks at them.

    BRUCE
    Okay.

    INT. WAYNE MANOR – HALLWAY - DAY

    Bruce, Pamela, and Harvey walk down one of the many hallways of Wayne Manor. There's a door that Bruce has never opened. It’s not locked. Bruce slowly opens it and they walk into the space. There are stairs leading down. Bruce now has a flashlight pointed so that they can see. There are lights, but Bruce and company are pretending they are exploring a cave.

    HARVEY
    What's down here?

    BRUCE
    Don't know, Harv. I'll bet those
    Evil pirates are at it again.

    Pamela squeals. She's at a stage where she loves pirate stories. Bruce turns and puts the light to his face.

    BRUCE (Cont’d.)
    Arr they be pirates in these here
    Caves.

    Pamela chuckles as they turn and walk deeper into the 'pirates cave' that is the hidden room of Wayne Manor. In the big room, Bruce looks around.

    BRUCE (Cont’d.)
    The treasure must be around here
    Somewhere.

    Bruce looks around as the other two look as well. Pamela looks around one of the walls to see if there's a 'secret passage' and finds a door.

    PAMELA
    Bruce, Bruce!

    Bruce walks up to her and looks at the door. Bruce opens the door. It leads to a cave. Bruce's eyes go wide.

    INT. WAYNE MANOR - CAVE UNDER HOUSE - DAY

    The kids are standing in a cave under Wayne Manor!

    PAMELA
    Wow!

    They begin to look around. Bruce waves his flashlight around, checking out the cave. Mild fluttering noises are heard, but that's about it. There are also drops of water hitting little puddles on the ground. Bruce twists his body around, trying to get everything in. We can see that the cave is vast. To a kid like Bruce, it's huge.

    Suddenly the flapping becomes louder. There's more of it. Bruce looks straight as bats fly towards him. There must be hundreds of them. His eyes go wide. Pamela screams as the bats fly right by them. Bruce is scared and tries to back up but falls and hits his head on one of the rocks. He is knocked unconscious.
    FADE TO:

    BLACK.

    INT. WAYNE MANOR - BRUCE'S ROOM - DAY

    As we see the room, Doctor Leslie Thompkins smiles as Bruce wakes up.

    LESLIE
    Well, welcome back. Had quite a
    Bump on your head, young man. Gave
    Your friends quite a scare as well.

    Bruce suddenly gets a flashback of the bats. He shudders at the thoughts. Leslie nods her head.

    LESLIE (Cont’d.)
    Don't worry, Bruce. They won't hurt
    You.

    She helps Bruce sit up. Pamela and Harvey are at the door.

    INT. WAYNE MANOR – HALLWAY - DAY

    Pamela and Harvey run off as Leslie and Bruce walk out of the room. They start walking in the direction of Alfred at the far end of the hall.

    LESLIE
    Your father was afraid of bats,
    When he was younger.

    Bruce looks at her.

    BRUCE
    Really?

    LESLIE
    Yes. Your father, when he was
    Young, hated the cave. He even had
    His father block the door because
    He feared the bats would get Through.

    BRUCE
    What happened?

    LESLIE
    Your father met a young woman named
    Martha. She was interested in bats.
    She helped him overcome his fear.
    Bats became a common interest. One
    Day, you will overcome your fear as
    Well. Trust me.

    She kisses him on the forehead.

    LESLIE
    Now I must be going. Good day.
    Alfred.

    She smiles as she looks at Alfred. Alfred nods his head. Bruce stands there as Leslie Thompkins walks down the hallway to the exit. We pan closer to his face.
    FADE TO:

    EXT. GENERAL WAYNE HIGH SCHOOL - DAY

    TITLE CARD: 6 years later.

    We now see the face of a 16 year old BRUCE WAYNE. We pan back to see that he's standing in front of the school. He's waiting for someone. PAMELA ISLEY, now 15, runs up and kisses him gently. They've been dating for 3 months now. Pamela looks beautiful in her cheerleader outfit. She's a basketball cheerleader and Bruce is the top scorer of the sport.

    BRUCE
    What's got you excited?

    PAMELA
    Today's our 3 month anniversary.

    BRUCE
    Has it been three months? I'm
    Getting old.

    Pamela smirks. They begin walking to one of Pamela's classes.

    PAMELA
    Have you given any thought as to What Harvey said?

    BRUCE (Wincing.)
    Remind me again about what Harvey
    Said?

    PAMELA
    He wants you to run with him for
    Student body president.

    BRUCE
    Oh... Yeah... I remember now.
    Harvey did say that. I doubt he
    Understands the implications of the
    Word responsibility though.

    EXT. GENERAL WAYNE HIGH SCHOOL - GYM CLASS - DAY

    Harvey Dent, now 16, stands there, a bit annoyed. A bully is picking on him.

    BULLY
    Harvey Dent. The two-faced kid.
    What's up Two-Face?

    Harvey just stands there, flipping a coin. He is obviously angry, but doesn't want to start anything yet. He's trying to hold his temper back.

    BULLY (Cont’d.)
    Two-face is gonna cry.

    HARVEY
    That's it.

    He flips his coin high into the air. He then throws a surprisingly powerful punch at the bully's face, knocking him out. He then holds his hand out, catching the coin. It’s tails.

    HARVEY (Cont’d.)
    Oh, is the little jackass gonna
    Cry?

    Harvey laughs.

    INT. GENERAL WAYNE HIGH SCHOOL – HALLWAY - DAY

    Bruce and Pamela walk on, talking about Harvey.

    PAMELA
    He's been stressed lately. I think
    He's going to snap one day.

    BRUCE
    Harv? Nah. He can handle himself.
    It's like he has 2 personalities,
    But he can definitely handle
    Himself in a given situation.

    INT. GENERAL WAYNE HIGH SCHOOL - MAIN OFFICE - DAY

    Harvey sits at the Principal’s office. PRINCIPAL DIANA KYLE, Selina’s mother, motions for him to enter his office. She has Harvey sit down in the chair in front of her desk. DIANA just looks at a report. She looks up at Harvey and sighs.

    DIANA
    This is the fourth time you've come
    In here for fighting, Mr. Dent.
    Personally, I'm getting sick of it.

    Harvey just looks at her. He seems cool. He's flipping his coin.

    HARVEY
    He started it. Called me Two-Face.

    DIANA
    I don't care who started it. You
    Don't knock people out, Harvey
    Dent, especially in my school.

    HARVEY
    You don't, I do. I got my honor to
    Protect. No self-indulging lowlife
    Insults Harvey Dent. Besides,
    You’re just trying to make this
    Place safer for your daughter
    Anyway. You will care less about
    This place once Selina graduates.

    Diana is in shock by what Harvey just said. Harvey stands up and walks toward the door. He turns to the principal.

    HARVEY (Cont’d.)
    You watch. One day I'll be District
    Attorney. I'll put the lowlifes
    Where they belong.

    DIANA
    Well, District Attorney Harvey
    Dent, consider yourself suspended
    For the rest of the week. Get out
    Of my office!

    INT. GENERAL WAYNE HIGH SCHOOL - HALLWAY - DAY

    Harvey Dent walks out of the office, and nearly bumps into Pamela as she turns a hall. Bruce holds her back before they collide.

    BRUCE
    Hey, Harv. What's up with you?

    HARVEY
    Got suspended.

    PAMELA
    For what?

    HARVEY (Cool about it.)
    Knocking a guy out.

    Bruce nods his head.

    BRUCE
    Harvey, how many times have I told
    You. If you’re going to knock a guy
    Out... do it when nobody's
    Watching.

    Pamela elbows him in the chest.

    BRUCE (Cont’d.)
    I mean... do it off school grounds.

    PAMELA
    Bruce!

    Bruce looks sheepish. Pamela leaves for her class. Bruce and Harvey walk off towards the main entrance.

    HARVEY
    Have you considered my offer?

    BRUCE
    Well, I'm not sure I'm the guy for
    You. I really know nothing about
    School politics... politics in
    General really.

    HARVEY
    Bruce, I'm asking you to help me
    Here.

    BRUCE
    I know, Harv. Ask Pamela. She's
    The best choice in my opinion.

    INT. GENERAL WAYNE HIGH – ENTRANCE TO SCHOOL CAFETERIA - DAY

    Pamela is walking towards the door to the outside of the cafeteria when HARLENE QUINZEL walks up to her.

    HARLENE
    Pam, I have good news!

    PAMELA
    This better not be one of those
    Gieco jokes.

    HARLENE (Giggling.)
    No. Dad says that once I graduate,
    I can get the internship at Arkham
    Asylum right away.

    PAMELA
    Why would you even want to work
    There? That place is full of
    Crazy people. So freaky.

    HARLENE
    That's what's so exciting about it.
    Danger at every turn. Never knowing
    What you'll get yourself into. Dad
    Thinks I'm fit for the internship with Jeremiah Arkham.

    PAMELA
    Well, good luck with that.

    Suddenly a big hulking boy, MATT HAGAN, with his girlfriend, JULIE MADISON, walk up to Pamela and Harlene.

    MATT
    Well, if it ain't Pamela Isley...
    Moneybag’s girlfriend! When you
    Gonna get a real man?

    PAMELA
    Get a life. Bruce is more of a man then you’ll ever be. Seriously, Julie, why do you stay with this thing?

    JULIE
    He’s my snukums.

    MATT
    Julie, how many times do I have to tell you not to call me that around here?

    JULIE
    Sorry, baby.

    PAMELA
    You know, Matt, to assume that your
    A real man would be hypocrisy.

    MATT
    Ouch. That hurts, really. So when
    You gonna get that real man? You
    Know there are lots of guys on the
    Football team that would love to go
    Out with you.

    PAMELA
    I prefer the basketball jocks over
    The football ones. Less pads to
    Take off, but I’m sure Julie would
    Know all about that.

    Julie smirks. Pamela walks away. Bruce enters the cafeteria. He takes a look at Matt Hagan and snickers.

    BRUCE
    Guess the brutes came out to play.

    Matt takes one good glance at Bruce and snarls.

    MATT
    Guess the pretty people decided it
    Was time to let the son come out
    And play. Rich kid, wanna fight?

    BRUCE
    I'm no fighter.

    MATT
    You’re no human either.

    Now this stuns, Bruce. He simply stands there.

    BRUCE
    And you’re an asshole.

    Everyone is shocked in the room. Even Pamela is frozen in place. Matt bares his teeth as he's clearly pissed. He strikes at Bruce with a hard left but his hand is grabbed by Harvey, and Harvey elbows him in the nose. Matt falls back, his nose bloody. Harvey flips a coin in the air and it lands tails. Harvey kicks Matt in the gut.

    HARVEY
    Don't be picking on the Wayne’s
    Now. You'll be asking for trouble.

    Harvey winks at Bruce and walks away. This leaves Bruce considering the possibilities.

    INT. WAYNE MANOR - DINING ROOM - NIGHT

    Bruce sits at the dining room table and ponders a few things. He overhears the television and how a special martial arts warrior in Tibet is relieving stress for local citizens there. Bruce has a sudden thought.

    BRUCE
    I don’t need Harvey to also stick
    Up for me and take care of my own
    Fights... I cannot be weak like
    This... What would my parents want
    Me to do?

    Bruce looks up at the large picture of both of his parents holding hands. They smile down toward their son.

    BRUCE (Cont’d.)
    It’s time.

    INT. WAYNE MANOR - BRUCE'S ROOM - NIGHT

    Bruce is in his room packing his things. He readies a sack and walks out.

    EXT. WAYNE MANOR - DRIVE WAY – NIGHT

    Bruce looks at his house as he walks out towards the main road. He considers what he's doing and he feels that this is the right thing.
    FADE TO:

    EXT. OCEAN LINER - MAIN DECK - DAY

    Bruce stands near the edge of the ocean liner 'Maritime'. He is enjoying the fresh air. He is eying the now distant land of Tibet.
    CUT TO:

    EXT. OCEAN LINER - DOCKING PORT – DAY –

    Bruce walks out toward the port station. A man holds him there.

    DOCKING SOLDIER
    Passport!

    Bruce holds out his passport. The soldier looks it over. He then looks at Bruce.

    DOCKING SOLDIER (Cont’d.)
    What are you doing here alone?

    BRUCE
    Looking for aid.

    DOCKING SOLDIER
    You come all this way, looking for
    Aid?

    BRUCE
    You wouldn't understand.

    The docking soldier just sighs and hands Bruce his passport back. Bruce takes it into his pocket and walks off.

    EXT. TIBET – LONELY ROAD - DAY

    Bruce makes it down a road when suddenly someone runs by him, knocking him down. The guy looks back, runs up to him and steals his wallet. Bruce is left there alone and without proper ID.

    BRUCE
    Perfect.

    He stands up. He's dirty now and quite full of mud as he had in fact fallen into a slight puddle. A man standing in the distance simply walks over to him. This is a familiar man from the television news cast back at Wayne Manor. We are seeing ETHAN LANG.

    LANG
    To watch you suffer is something I
    Cannot do. What is it that you
    Seek?

    BRUCE
    Who said I was searching for
    Something?

    LANG
    A man who travels far and allows
    The mud of other lands to cover his
    Form doesn't do so without purpose.

    Bruce stares at him for a second.

    BRUCE
    You’re Ethan Lang, aren't you?

    LANG
    You do know of me then?

    BRUCE
    Heard about you in the news.

    LANG
    And you came seeking my aid?

    BRUCE
    Yes.

    LANG
    Then let us get you out of this
    Clothing. You've had a long trip.

    INT. LANG'S HUT - HOURS LATER - EVENING

    Lang walks up to Bruce, whom is now sitting in new clothes. He hands him a cup of tea. Lang sits in front of him.

    LANG
    Now... what is it that you seek?

    BRUCE
    A way to fight injustice. To defend
    Myself.

    LANG
    Ahhh... Injustice... Defense... You want a way to fight back what
    So rightfully seeks to save itself.
    What you really want is a way to
    Fight the fear that chokes the
    City. I can help you.

    Bruce stares at him.

    BRUCE
    What's the catch?

    LANG
    It takes many years to fully learn
    This art. It is the art that helps
    Me to be a legend. You see I am to
    Them a symbol. I am what makes this
    Great country continue to thrive. My dearest niece in the states is
    Very proud of me for all I have
    Accomplished. Perhaps you have
    Heard of her? Lana Lang? She lives in Smallville, Kansas.

    Bruce considers this.

    BRUCE
    I have never been to Kansas... I am
    Ready. This is what I want.

    LANG
    Really? Well then, we will begin.
    After dinner I will test you.

    Bruce nods his head.

    BRUCE
    Alright.

    EXT. LANG'S HUT - HOURS LATER - EVENING

    Bruce Wayne and Ethan Lang stand outside of Lang’s Hut. They are in a forest area. Both people are wearing black. Lang considers it an equality color when training.

    LANG
    Remember I do not know your name.
    But you know my name. That gives
    You at least some advantage. You
    Know of me and my niece’s name and
    Where she lives. You know what I'm
    Capable of. Remember that to know
    Thy enemy is always an advantage
    Over the other. To not know the
    Enemy is to face endless
    Possibilities. Fear is what lies
    Inside those possibilities. Fear
    Of the unknown. To assume that I do
    Not know your name is to assume
    That I do not know you. Take that
    Thought willingly. But don't hold
    It to your ego.

    Lang swings his fist at Bruce, but he blocks instinctively. Just then, Lang swings and hits Bruce’s jaw. Bruce stumbles back. Bruce feels his jaw and readies for an attack. He tries swinging at Lang, but he barely even has to dodge.

    LANG (Cont’d.)
    Just because I do not know you
    Doesn't mean that I do not know
    Your limits. For instance, I know
    That you are not a fighter... but
    That is obvious. You coming to me
    For aid means that you are not a
    Defender or an offender. I got that
    Knowledge just by your actions. How
    You present yourself is everything.

    Bruce considers everything he's told.

    INT. LANG'S HUT - MOMENTS LATER

    They are once again sipping tea, and sitting at a table.

    LANG
    Despite being a beginner you are
    Quite the brawler. You at least
    Know how to ball up a fist. That is
    One step in the right direction. I
    Will teach you the basics. You
    Yourself must learn the
    Advancements. Remember one thing.
    Fear and Theatricality can be a big
    Player in a fight. You must be a
    Menace to whoever you’re fighting.

    BRUCE
    Why do you do this?

    LANG
    Well, I told you that this is who I
    Am. Why is simple. Every night
    There is a simple purpose that
    Everyone falls asleep. To be
    Energized. They fall asleep because
    They are safe. They are safe from
    The crime that plagues places like Metropolis, Gotham City, and
    Others. They are safe because of
    Me.

    Bruce listens. He understands.

    BRUCE
    I come from Gotham City. There's
    Crime there that nobody can stop.
    My school is run by tyrants. I want
    To fight them. I want to show them
    That I'm not afraid.

    LANG
    And nor should you be. To show them
    That you are afraid is to let them
    Know that they are in fact winning, Bruce.

    Bruce is suddenly shocked as he looks at Lang who is smiling.

    LANG (Cont’d.)
    Yes, I know who you are. I heard
    In the news that you went missing
    Days ago. Here is the deal. I will teach you. 10 years. No more, no
    Less. When you return to Gotham, you will use what I have taught you
    To fight the crime in the city.
    That is my bargain. Will you take
    It?

    BRUCE
    I will.

    LANG
    Good. Tomorrow we begin.
    MONTAGE:

    There are different scenes of Bruce's teachings. There is one in which he is kickboxing. There are others where he uses ninja stars. There are others yet where he is performing acrobatics.
    CUT TO:

    Title Card: 10 YEARS LATER.

    INT. LANG'S HUT - DAY

    A now 26 year old Bruce sits at the table to eat some rice. Lang joins him.

    LANG
    You have learned much in 10 years.
    Imagine what you could do with more
    Time.

    BRUCE
    Could you not teach me more?

    LANG
    Oh, I could... I imagine I could.
    You never stop learning, Bruce. But
    We did have a deal. Now tonight I
    Have a mission for you. You are
    Prepared, I think, for this.
    FADE TO:

    EXT. WAREHOUSE - NIGHT - HOURS LATER

    Bruce creeps up to a rock and looks at a warehouse. There are a few trucks there. The people there are wearing all black, obviously to keep hidden in case someone should walk around the area. They all wear black ski masks as well.

    LANG (V.O.)
    Are they there?

    BRUCE
    Yeah. There are about 6 of them.

    Bruce is talking into a radio. He eyes the villains through binoculars, when suddenly someone from behind grabs him. He grabs the arm and flips the person into the ground. Suddenly they are on to him. The 6 men run at him. He readies for combat. The first criminal reaches him and slams a crowbar towards his head.

    Bruce ducks and punches the criminal's gut. The criminal stumbles backwards as the second and third reach Bruce. Bruce jumps and kicks both of them. Bruce must find a better place to fight these men. He looks around when the man punches him in the face. He stumbles but uses the momentum to spin and punch the guy in the mouth. The guy falls backwards. That's one guy down.

    The first and second guys are ready for more. Bruce grabs the arm of the first guy and kicks the chest of the second guy. Then he twists the arm of the first guy and spins him around into the second guy. They are down. That's 3 guys.

    The fourth guy grabs the crowbar and swings at Bruce’s chest. Bruce grabs the crowbar and elbows the guy in the face. He stumbles back but comes up for more. Bruce uppercuts the guy and he falls down, as the fifth guy comes at him. Bruce punches the guy and then kicks him in the jaw. He goes down and the sixth guy stops where he is. He looks at the others, as they moan and roll on the ground. He is surprised by the attack and has to clap his hands. Bruce is confused. Then the sixth man takes off the mask to reveal Ethan Lang. It hits him.

    BRUCE
    You planned this?

    LANG
    You honestly didn't think I was
    Going to let you go without testing
    Your abilities. What kind of
    Teacher would I be?

    BRUCE
    A lenient one.

    Lang chuckles.

    LANG
    I am lenient. I could have had them
    With guns. Bruce you will learn
    Just as I did that there is no
    Training too easy. Each has its own
    Skill level built into it.

    BRUCE
    Of course.

    LANG
    Now I have given you the strength.
    You must learn the will.

    Lang hands him a plane ticket.

    LANG (Cont’d.)
    This is for tomorrow. You must
    Return to Gotham. You will learn
    That the price for being gone 10
    Years is death. You have been
    Deemed dead. But you will rise
    Again. What you do with your new
    Life is up to you.

    EXT. AIR – AIRPLANE - DAY

    We see a plane heading towards Gotham.

    INT. AIRPLANE - MOMENTS LATER

    Bruce Wayne is in a chair near the window. He uses a card to make a phone call on the airplane phone. He calls Alfred.

    ALFRED (V.O.)
    Wayne Manor.

    BRUCE
    You shouldn’t sound so glum when
    You say that, Alfred. People will
    Think that you’re not happy to be
    Alive.

    ALFRED (V.O.)
    Who's this?

    BRUCE
    It’s Bruce Wayne, of course. Don’t
    You recognize my voice, Alfred?

    ALFRED (V.O.)
    I'm sorry. That can't be possible.
    Bruce Wayne is dead.

    BRUCE
    Alfred... it is me.

    ALFRED (V.O.)
    Sir, if this is a joke, it is in
    Bad taste.

    BRUCE
    It is no joke. How else would I
    Know this number? Only friends and
    Family call. I could tell you about
    The past... My hero was Zorro... I
    Was attacked by bats as a kid...

    Alfred considers this for a moment.

    ALFRED (V.O.)
    Bless me, Master Wayne. It’s been
    Ten years.

    BRUCE
    It has. Listen, meet me at the
    Airport. I'm landing in one hour.

    ALFRED (V.O.)
    Yes, sir. I am assuming that by
    That time you'll be ready to
    Explain where you were these years,
    As to explain why you aren't dead
    As people think?

    BRUCE
    Of course.

    Bruce hangs up the phone.

    EXT. AIR – AIRPLANE - DAY

    The airplane flies towards Gotham City.
    FADE TO:

    INT. AIRPORT - 1 HOUR LATER - DAY

    Bruce Wayne walks out of the terminal and into the main plaza. There with a sign that says 'Bruce Wayne'. Alfred is holding it. Bruce chuckles and walks up to him.

    BRUCE
    Did you have to make it so obvious?

    ALFRED
    I wasn't sure I'd recognize you.
    After all it’s been 10 years.

    BRUCE WAYNE
    True. How are you, old friend?

    ALFRED
    Splendid.

    They begin to walk towards the exit.

    BRUCE
    So what's new?

    ALFRED
    Lots. I kept up Wayne Manor. Its
    Exactly as you left it. Harvey Dent
    Owns it now. Believes that it is
    His duty to keep it safe until your
    Return. He never gave up hope...
    Neither did I.

    BRUCE WAYNE (Smiling.)
    Great to hear.

    EXT. WAYNE MANOR - DRIVE WAY - MOMENTS LATER

    The Limo drives up the driveway to the front of Wayne Manor. Bruce steps out and looks at the house. It is as he remembers it. He turns to Alfred and his old friend reminds him of his old self. This is why he left those years ago: To protect this.

    INT. WAYNE MANOR - DINING ROOM

    Bruce is eating supper while Alfred speaks to him.

    ALFRED
    Mr. Dent is at his office. I gave
    Him the call that you’re returning.
    He has the deeds to the house ready
    For you to sign. He is surprised
    That you've returned at all,
    Actually.

    At this news, Bruce is a bit surprised.

    BRUCE
    Why's that?

    ALFRED
    10 years is a long time, sir.

    BRUCE
    That is the rumor.

    ALFRED
    Sarcastic till the last, I see.

    BRUCE
    Who am I without a sense of humor,
    Alfred?

    ALFRED
    True, sir.

    Suddenly they hear the front door open. Bruce stands up.

    ALFRED
    Don't worry, sir. I'll take care of
    That.

    INT. WAYNE MANOR - MAIN HALLWAY

    Bruce walks into the main hallway and there is Harvey Dent, now 26. Harvey looks stunned to see Bruce.

    HARVEY
    Well, I'll be damned. Bruce Wayne!

    BRUCE
    Harvey Dent.

    They embrace.

    HARVEY
    I thought Alfred was lying... well
    Hot damn. You have some explaining
    To do.

    BRUCE
    If you've got the time.

    HARVEY
    I'm all ears.
    FADE TO:

    INT. WAYNE MANOR - LIVING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER

    Bruce Wayne and Harvey Dent are in the living room sitting in some chairs. Bruce has explained to Harvey where he's been for the last 10 years.

    HARVEY
    Well, I'll be. Bruce Wayne,
    Learning martial arts. I'd never
    Have thought it.

    BRUCE
    Well, I can't have you watching my
    Back 24/7, now can I?

    HARVEY
    Guess not. Well, now it's my time
    To regale the past 10 years.

    Bruce eases in his chair to listen intently.

    HARVEY (Cont’d.)
    Well, first off. I got student
    President that year.

    BRUCE
    Congratulations.

    HARVEY
    Thank you, and I had help. Pamela
    Was my running mate. Took her mind
    Off of you for a while. You left a
    Lot of people disappointed, Bruce.

    BRUCE
    It was for the best. I've learned a
    Lot about myself. Was she mad at me
    For disappearing?

    HARVEY
    Not really. Just disappointed that
    You didn't show up. You know her,
    Can never get angry with you. She's
    Going to Gotham University to be a
    Botanist by the way. Loves that
    Type of stuff. Hell if I know why.

    BRUCE (Smiling.)
    Better than working at Arkham...
    Like Harlene... she did end up
    There, didn't she?

    HARVEY (Nodding.)
    Oh, yes. She was adamant about it.
    Her father made sure that she was
    Able to. Jeremiah Arkham couldn't
    Resist hiring her. You know how the Quinzel’s are... Richer then the hills... but not as rich as you, I guess... but just enough to buy off Arkham...
    (Sighs.)
    Like so many other people do in this town...

    Bruce shifts uneasy. He seems to react to these words and how sadly Harvey says them. Harvey stands and holds out papers.

    HARVEY (Cont’d.)
    Well, sign the papers and the house is yours again.

    BRUCE
    You sure you don’t want to rename this place Dent Manor? Has a nice ring to it.

    HARVEY (Laughing.)
    No thanks. This home is yours. You have more memories in it then I do.

    Bruce sighs sadly as he stands up and moves away. Harvey realizes what he’s said.

    HARVEY (Cont’d.)
    Sorry. I didn’t mean it like that.
    I meant the memories after their
    Deaths. The good times with us and
    Pam.

    Bruce turns around and smiles.

    BRUCE
    I know, Harv. You always think
    About the positive. That’s what’s
    So great about you.

    Bruce takes the papers and a pen from Harvey. He signs his name. Harvey gets an idea.

    HARVEY
    Why don't you try leading the
    Campaign with me?

    Bruce is confused. This apparently came out of nowhere.

    BRUCE
    (Shaking head, confused.)
    What campaign?

    HARVEY
    District Attorney. I’m running for
    Office. My dreams are finally
    Coming true. If only Diana Kyle
    Could see me now.

    Bruce raises his eyebrow. He thinks it over and considers it. The least he could do for someone that kept his house safe for him for 10 years is help out.

    BRUCE
    Sure. I’d be honored.

    EXT. WAYNE ENTERPRISES - DAY

    Bruce sits in his limo with Alfred in the driver's seat. Alfred is talking to Bruce about the state of the company.

    ALFRED
    The company is being run by Lucius
    Fox. He’s an old friend of the
    Family. I can give a call in before
    You actually enter, sir.

    BRUCE
    That'll be fine, Alfred.

    Alfred picks up the car phone. He dials a number and seconds later a woman answers.

    SECRETARY (V.O.)
    Fox’s office. This is Rita. How may
    I help you?

    ALFRED
    I would like to speak to Lucius
    Himself, please. It is an urgent
    Matter.

    RITA (V.O.)
    Name, sir?

    ALFRED
    Alfred Pennyworth.

    RITA (V.O.)
    Oh, of course, Mr. Pennyworth. Just
    A second, hun.

    Alfred holds on. Bruce looks out at the decaying city before him. He sighs as he looks at how the city seems to be tearing apart day by day.

    FOX (V.O.)
    Lucius Fox. How are you, Alfred?

    ALFRED
    I’m well, Lucius. I wanted to give
    You the heads up that a Mr. Wayne
    Will be stopping in to discuss some
    Business concerning the company.

    FOX
    So he's back, is he? I’ve been
    Waiting a long time for this day.
    Very well. I'll be waiting for his
    Arrival.

    Alfred hangs up the phone.

    ALFRED
    Good luck, sir.

    INT. WAYNE ENTERPRISES - MAIN ENTRANCE

    Bruce walks into the building. He looks around, trying to remember what the building looked like as a kid. It seems to be the same. This is one of the few buildings in Gotham that hasn’t been affected severely by the corruption. He walks up to an elevator. He presses the button and the doors open. Bruce walks into the elevator and presses a button.

    INT. WAYNE ENTERPRISES - EXECUTIVE LEVEL - MOMENTS LATER

    Bruce exits the elevator and walks to the secretary, RITA.

    RITA
    Can I help you?

    BRUCE
    I'm here to see Mr. Fox. I have an
    Appointment.

    RITA
    Sure. Name?

    FOX (O.S.)
    Bruce Wayne.

    Bruce and Rita look over to see LUCIUS FOX walking out of his office. He is an African American, quite handsome for his age. They shake hands.

    FOX (Cont’d.)
    Alfred just called to warn me.
    (He looks at his watch.)
    You’re early. I like that in a man.

    INT. WAYNE ENTERPRISES - LUCIUS' OFFICE - DAY

    They sit at Fox's desk.

    FOX (Cont’d.)
    Something to drink?

    BRUCE
    No, thank you.

    FOX
    So what can I do for you? Alfred
    Says you have some business to
    Discuss.

    BRUCE
    Well, my father built this company,
    And I hear you run it now.

    FOX (Sighing.)
    You want your company back, don’t
    You?

    BRUCE
    I wouldn't think of taking the
    Business away. A partnership would
    Be nice. It is Wayne Enterprises
    After all. What would it be if a
    Wayne wasn't partly responsible
    With its operations.

    Fox chuckles.

    FOX
    You got me there. A partnership? Of course. Your father and I were
    Friends. Did the same thing when he
    Was around since he was working at
    Gotham General all the time.

    BRUCE (Sadly.)
    You knew my father?

    FOX (Nodding.)
    Of course. I was on the board along
    With Dr. Wayne. I almost retired
    When your parents were murdered.
    Couldn't continue without a proper
    And respectful owner. Instead, I
    Took over full ownership in hopes
    That one day you would be old
    Enough to finally step up to the
    Challenge.

    BRUCE
    Thank you.

    FOX
    Your father would’ve done the same,
    If not more for me. I owed him
    After all he had done for me... He
    Saved my wife’s life after she had
    Our second child. The labor was a
    Lot of stress on her and she had
    Lost a lot of blood. It was a
    Miracle that he was able to save
    Her. I wanted to pay him back for
    Saving the most important person in
    The world to me.

    Suddenly Bruce's cell phone rings.

    BRUCE
    Just a second.

    Fox nods as Bruce answers.

    BRUCE
    Hello? Oh, yeah, Harv, I was just
    Getting ready to find out.

    He hangs up the phone.

    BRUCE
    Mr. Fox, how do you feel about
    Sponsoring a race?

    EXT. GOTHAM SPEEDWAY – THAT NIGHT

    The audience is wild as the racers are announced. One of the racers is Bruce Wayne himself.

    RACE ANOUNCER (V.O.)
    And a special thanks goes to Wayne
    Enterprises for sponsoring today's
    Race. As a special treat, tonight
    We have Bruce Wayne driving in the
    Number 20 car.

    EXT. GOTHAM SPEEDWAY - STANDS

    Pamela Isley, 25, and her best friend, Talia al Ghul, 24, walk down to their seats.

    TALIA
    I tell ya, Dr. Crane’s class is
    Getting worse by the day.

    PAMELA
    You’re telling me... But his class
    Is the least of my worries. I’m
    More stressed with Mrs. Fries’
    Biology class.

    TALIA
    Just be happy that you don’t have
    Her husband for Chemistry. He’s a
    Nightmare.

    RACE ANOUNCER (V.O.)
    And here comes Bruce Wayne,
    Preparing to enter the race!

    Pamela stops and gapes at the raceway.

    PAMELA
    Oh, my God...

    EXT. GOTHAM SPEEDWAY - PITS

    Bruce gets into his car and starts the engine.

    ALFRED (Concerned.)
    Now, sir, you do know what your
    Doing, right?

    BRUCE
    Of course, Alfred, besides it’s for
    Harv’s campaign. This is gonna make
    Him a lot of money for his own
    Race.

    ALFRED
    If you say so, sir. Just try to
    Drive slowly.

    Bruce raises an eyebrow.

    BRUCE
    Do you even know what racing is,
    Alfred?

    ALFRED
    Why of course I bloody well do,
    Sir.

    BRUCE
    Good. I was afraid that you spent
    All of your time listening to that
    Classical crap.

    ALFRED
    Some people happen to still enjoy
    The calmness of classical music,
    Thank you very much.

    EXT. GOTHAM SPEEDWAY - NIGHT

    The cars drive fast through the turns. Bruce enters the speedway's main road and catches up to the racers. Bruce speeds up on the first of 10 race cars. He tries to pass to the left, but the car swerves towards the left. He tries to pass right, but the car swerves right. Bruce then taps the car on the bumper a bit. The car swerves and Bruce takes off, passing the car.

    EXT. GOTHAM SPEEDWAY - STANDS

    Pamela gasps at that move. Talia is confused as to why her friend is showing so much concern.

    EXT. GOTHAM SPEEDWAY - NIGHT

    It’s now 4 laps in and Bruce has moved up to number 2. There's a car in front and a car directly in back. He's trying to pass this car but can’t. Ironically it’s the same car that he passed 4 laps ago. The car gets an idea. It slows down suddenly and Bruce barely passes to the right. The car that was directly in back of Bruce isn't so lucky and they smash into each other. Bruce passes the checkered flag of this 4 lap race. Luckily the other drivers are ok.

    EXT. GOTHAM SPEEDWAY - MOMENTS LATER

    After accepting a check for 20,000 dollars, Bruce hands it over to Harvey who smiles and then hugs his friend. Bruce walks into the stands to sit down. Suddenly something happens that brightens his day.

    PAMELA
    Bruce?

    Bruce turns and spots Pamela and Talia walking up to him.

    BRUCE (Shocked.)
    Pamela?

    Pamela walks up to him, and disbelievingly, slaps him in the face.

    BRUCE (Cont’d.)
    What was that for?

    PAMELA
    To make sure I wasn't dreaming.

    BRUCE
    Usually you pinch yourself.

    PAMELA
    That's also for leaving me alone
    All these years.

    Talia chuckles at this. Bruce looks over to Talia, seeming confused as he reaches out his hand for her to shake.

    RACE ANOUNCER (V.O.)
    Ladies and gentlemen, the second
    Race will start in 5 minutes. A
    Quick reminder to everyone, please
    Help support Harvey Dent’s campaign
    For Gotham’s new District Attorney.

    BRUCE
    Hello. Bruce Wayne.

    Talia accepts the handshake.

    TALIA
    I'm Talia al Ghûl.

    BRUCE (shocked.)
    As in Râ's al Ghûl? The gangster?

    TALIA (Chuckling.)
    Well, we don’t like to use the G
    Word, but he does know how to get
    Ahead, and in Gotham, that's about
    The only way these days.

    BRUCE
    I'm sad to say that I know what you
    Mean.

    TALIA
    I have heard much about you from
    Pamela here.

    BRUCE (Looking at Pamela.)
    Have you now?

    PAMELA (Blushing.)
    Well... there wasn't that much to
    Talk about really... it has been a
    Long time.

    BRUCE
    Too long. We really should get to
    Together... You, me, and Harvey...
    And of course you're welcome as
    Well, Talia. It'll be like old
    Times, plus one.

    TALIA (Laughing.)
    I would love to.

    PAMELA
    Of course, if it were really like
    Old times, Harlene would be with
    Us... She's so wrapped up with her
    Job at Arkham that she has no time
    For anyone else anymore. It's like
    The inmates there are her friends
    Now. Creeps me out.

    BRUCE (Nodding.)
    I see what you mean.

    Alfred walks over to everyone and takes a seat so that he doesn't block anyone's view.

    ALFRED
    I'm sorry to bother you, sir, but
    The second race will...

    BRUCE
    I know, Alfred. I'll be right down.

    ALFRED
    Very good, sir.
    PAMELA
    It’s good to see you again, Alfred.

    Alfred looks at the lady in confusion. Then it hits him.

    ALFRED
    Ms. Isley! Why it is a marvel to
    See you again, my dear.

    PAMELA
    Same to you, Alfred.

    Alfred smiles. He stands back up and moves away.

    BRUCE
    How about dinner tomorrow? Harvey
    And I were going to go over
    Election strategies and I'm sure
    That we could both use a couple
    Extra brains and beautiful eyes at
    The table. And you never know,
    Maybe Harvey will hire you for this
    Election and you'll actually get
    Paid for doing it this time.

    PAMELA (Sighing.)
    He told you about the school
    Election, didn’t he?

    Bruce nods and then stands up.

    BRUCE
    I have to get back down there for
    The next race. We'll talk tomorrow.
    It was good to have met you, Talia.

    TALIA
    And the same to you.

    Bruce walks away. Pamela smiles brightly. Talia is enchanted by Bruce, but tries not to show it to Pamela.

    PAMELA
    He's just so gorgeous.

    TALIA
    You can say that again.

    PAMELA (Suspiciously.)
    Don't try to take my man, Talia.

    TALIA
    I wouldn't dream of it. It is
    Obvious that he is truly your
    Beloved.

    PAMELA (Dreamily.)
    I hope so, Talia.

    TALIA
    We need to make tomorrow night
    Special for you.

    PAMELA (Confused.)
    What do you mean?

    TALIA
    I get the feeling that a rising
    Botany major from Gotham U most
    Likely has a difficult time buying
    Nice clothes for herself.

    PAMELA (Sarcastically.)
    How could you ever guess?

    TALIA
    Because your parents don't make the
    Most money in the world.

    PAMELA
    Talia, I don't want to use your
    Father's money. I know where that
    Money comes from.

    TALIA (Shocked.)
    I wasn’t even going to bring father
    Into this. You know good and well that I have a job.

    PAMELA (Laughs.)
    Yeah. Working as Dr. Crane's
    Protégé. That can't really pay
    Much.

    TALIA
    You'd be surprised. Now you're my
    Best friend and I want to take you
    Shopping.

    RACE ANNOUNCER (V.O.)
    And now, for the second race. I
    Hope you're ready folks!

    Pamela smiles largely.
    FADE TO:

    INT. WAYNE MANOR - BRUCE'S ROOM - NIGHT - HOURS LATER

    Bruce sits on his bed, thinking. He is holding a picture of him and his parents together. Alfred brings him his dinner on a silver platter. He looks at Bruce and sighs sadly as he places the tray on the nearby table. He walks over and sits down beside Bruce.

    ALFRED
    I see you’re brooding again.

    BRUCE
    I can’t believe things turned out
    The way they did.

    ALFRED
    What do you mean?

    BRUCE
    Even though I lost my parents, life
    Granted me other people to try to
    Fill the void... You, Leslie,
    Harvey, Harlene... and Pamela...

    ALFRED
    It was good to see her again,
    Wasn't it?

    Bruce looks up at him.

    BRUCE
    Yes, it was.

    ALFRED
    She cares about you greatly. After
    You went missing, she called every
    Day for three years just hoping
    That maybe you had returned.
    Eventually she stopped calling...
    But I knew that she still had
    Hope... just like Harvey... just
    Like myself.

    BRUCE
    I don’t deserve people like the
    Three of you...

    ALFRED
    Why ever would you say that, Master
    Bruce?

    BRUCE
    After I lost my parents, I just
    Felt darkness, Alfred. You tried
    Everything you could to give me a
    Good, memorable childhood, and Pam
    And Harv have always been great
    Friends... I don’t know if I
    Could’ve made it without you
    Three... high school just made
    Things worse though... I had fun
    Playing basketball... but... I
    Don’t know...

    ALFRED (Sighing.)
    You never did graduate... I’ve been
    Meaning to discuss that with you...

    BRUCE
    I’m sorry, Alfred... I had to go.
    There was something drawing me
    Away... it was like my parents were
    Calling to me... wanting me to
    Avenge their deaths... wanting me
    To defend myself and to stop
    Relying on Harvey all the time as
    Some sort of bodyguard.

    ALFRED
    Well, you’re just lucky that since
    You’re a Wayne, that you can just
    Take care of Wayne Enterprises
    Instead of actually getting a real
    Job.

    Bruce smiles and nods. Suddenly there is a chirping. It’s a bat that's trying to get out of a high window.

    ALFRED
    Bloody bats. They get caught in the
    House all the time.

    Bruce doesn't listen. He just continues to sit there, brooding over life.

    FLASH TO:

    INT. POLICE STATION - FLASHBACK

    10 year old Bruce Wayne stands with Alfred. COMMISSIONER GILLIAN B. LOEB walks in.

    ALFRED
    Anything, Commissioner?

    LOEB
    Nothing. Don't worry, Mr.
    Pennyworth. We'll catch him.

    Bruce looks up at Alfred, and then at Officer Gordon.

    ANTHONY
    Don't worry, son. We'll get him.
    INT. WAYNE MANOR - BRUCE'S ROOM

    Bruce looks at the bat. The bat! He stands up and starts over. Alfred looks worried. Bruce walks up to it and looks at it.

    BRUCE
    Alfred, get me all the information
    You can find on Anthony Gordon.

    ALFRED
    Would this be business or personal?

    Bruce Wayne looks at Alfred with a weird look on his face.

    BRUCE
    Business.

    INT. GOTHAM DRESSER - DAY

    Pamela Isley is at the dressers with Talia. Talia holds out a greenish dress. Pamela takes the dress.

    PAMELA
    Oh, this is way too fancy... and
    Green? I don’t know if that’s
    Really my color...

    TALIA
    It’s perfect, and you do look good
    In green. It’s even your size!

    Pamela sighs and goes into a fitting room. Talia looks around at several more dresses trying to find something for herself. Pamela comes back out wearing the dress. It fits perfectly.

    PAMELA
    I can't take this, Talia. It’s too
    Expensive!

    TALIA
    Don't worry about price, Pam.
    You’re impressing Bruce Wayne for
    Crying out loud!

    PAMELA
    Yeah, but...

    TALIA
    But nothing. The only ‘butt’ you
    Need to worry about is Bruce’s.

    Pamela and Talia share a giggle as Talia hands a sales associate her credit card.

    INT. ICEBERG LOUNGE - NIGHT

    Bruce Wayne walks into The Iceberg Lounge with Pamela Isley and Talia al Ghûl. Bruce is wearing a black suit, Pamela is wearing the green dress, and Talia is wearing a similar red dress. She looks quite beautiful: a true temptress. Harvey Dent is wearing a pen striped suit. He flips his coin. He's been waiting for them at a decent table. He stands up as he sees them arrive.

    HARVEY
    Well, look at what we have here.

    PAMELA
    Hello, Harvey. You remember Talia,
    I presume?

    HARVEY (Smiling.)
    How could I ever forget?

    TALIA
    It's a pleasure as always, Harvey.

    Harvey kisses Talia’s hand. Harvey allows Talia to sit in a seat as Bruce does the same for Pamela. The waitress arrives. She is wearing a black leotard of sorts with a white bowtie, white stockings, and a black short hat on her head.

    WAITRESS
    Refreshments?

    BRUCE
    Your finest bottle of red wine.

    WAITRESS
    But of course.

    The waitress walks away.

    BRUCE
    Don’t worry, I’m paying. I just
    Feel a good celebration is in
    Order. The money we raised will
    Help the campaign greatly.

    HARVEY
    Good. This is the most expensive
    Place in Gotham to get wine. Oswald
    Cobblepot is a real money grabber
    If you know what I mean.

    Harvey looks at Talia, whom he doesn’t really know and becomes interested.

    HARVEY
    So Talia, tell me about yourself. I
    Know the other two faces here very
    Well. You, on the other hand, are a
    Mystery.

    TALIA
    Perhaps a mystery is the way I like
    To leave it, Mr. Dent.

    The waitress returns with the wine on a cart in a bucket of ice. She sets out four glasses and pours their drinks.

    WAITRESS
    May I take your orders now?

    HARVEY
    I’m not exactly ready yet. Could
    You return in a few minutes?

    WAITRESS
    But of course.

    The waitress walks off. Pamela smiles and straightens in her chair, putting on a smirk similar to the waitress’s.

    PAMELA (Mocking.)
    But of course.

    Everyone gets a good laugh. Harvey looks back to Talia. He can’t help but be curious.

    HARVEY
    There has to be something that
    You're willing to talk about,
    Talia. I'm sure that your father
    Would be the last thing you would
    Want to discuss, but perhaps
    Something else would be...

    Talia feels a bit nervous. Bruce can sense Talia’s feelings here.

    BRUCE (Cont'd.)
    Do you guys remember the cave?

    PAMELA
    Who can forget the cave? It’s where
    We saw pirate's gold.

    Pamela smiles, chuckling a little. Bruce nods his head. Harvey smiles. Talia mouths the words 'thank you', and Bruce merely nods his head to her.

    Suddenly the doors open and the flashes of cameras roll in. Matt Hagen, now 26, and Julie Madison, now 25, walk in and are waited upon immediately as they arrive, but they aren’t waited on by a waitress. In waddles a short, fat man that wears a tuxedo and a top hat. He has a long nose and wears an eyepiece in his right eye. This is THE PENGUIN, MR. OSWALD CHESTERFIELD COBBLEPOT. He shakes Matt’s hand and kisses Julie’s hand. He leads them over to their table.

    Bruce and the others look to Matt and Julie being ushered to their table by The Penguin. Bruce shows anger on his face because of the past. Pamela sighs and shakes her head.

    PAMELA (Cont’d.)
    Matt Hagen. Who would’ve thought
    That jock would become an actor?
    I still can’t believe that Julie
    Didn’t leave that sleaze. Some
    Things just never change in this
    City. Julie’s a model for
    Victoria’s Secret.

    BRUCE (Raises eyebrow.)
    How wonderful for them... I guess
    Monkeys can act and walk down
    Runways after all...

    This nearly causes Talia to spew her drink as she had just taken a gulp of. She has to swallow hard before chuckling. Pamela is also chuckling at this thought.

    TALIA
    Why do you bash such an actor? I
    Find him quite dreamy.

    BRUCE
    It takes talent to be able to pull
    Off the whole pretending on screen
    Deal. I bet if you put him on a
    Theatre stage, he'd get lost and
    Couldn’t even find center stage.

    PAMELA
    Upstage and downstage might be a problem for him as well. Even I
    Used to get them backwards.
    Cheerleading was my life, but you
    Know me and the stage. I couldn't
    Resist a good play.

    HARVEY (Smiling.)
    Here is an irony about our old
    Buddy, Matt. His latest movie's a
    Mindless action flick. Opens next
    Week if you’re interested in some
    Comedy. Word is that Julie is gonna be in it too as the little damsel in distress. I just can’t wait to hear her annoying, weak, and faked screams.

    BRUCE
    Sounds like a plan. Pamela? Care
    To comment on the open invitation?

    PAMELA
    Invitation accepted. It can be a
    Double date. Talia?

    This gets Talia wide eyed. She looks at Harvey, and then to Pamela.

    TALIA
    Oh, no. I wouldn't impede.

    BRUCE
    Not a problem at all. Come on Harv.
    What do you say?

    HARVEY
    Well, if Ms. al Ghûl is up to the
    Challenge?

    Talia blushes from this. The other three chuckle from her reaction. Talia looks past the three and is shocked, but tries not to show it.
    Râ's al Ghûl is sitting at a table in a dark corner. He wears a green suit, red tie, and green cloak with a yellow interior. His legs are crossed as he smokes a cigar. He nods his head to Talia, obviously to show that he approves and most likely mainly because of Harvey being the future DA. These days Râ's is all business. Talia nods her head to Harvey. He smiles.

    TALIA
    I would love to.

    Râ's al Ghûl smiles as he turns back to the man sitting in front of him. He is very slender, wearing a dark blue velvet suit and tie. He also smokes, but he is smoking a cigarette. This is SALVATORE MARONI.

    MARONI
    He won't go for our plans. I
    Honestly don't understand your
    Angle here. Dent is clean. I heard
    That he wants to stomp people like
    Us into the ground.

    RÂ'S AL GHÛL
    You must have patience, Salvatore.
    All will be revealed in due time.

    MARONI
    I don't like it, Râ's. The DA'S
    Office has never let up on their
    Crusade to end organized crime.
    What really makes you think that
    You can change things?

    RÂ'S AL GHÛL
    Because unlike all those who have
    Tried in the past, I will keep
    Going until I have retrieved the
    Result that I desire most.

    MARONI
    But why so secretive? You won't
    Notify the society of any of your
    Matters. Falcone is getting
    Suspicious, Cobblepot is getting
    Nervous, and Thorne... well, he of
    Course never trusted you from the
    Beginning.

    RÂ'S AL GHÛL
    But you are different. You trust in
    Me. You have since I first came on
    The scene.

    MARONI
    That's because I'm tired of the old
    Ways. I want something new. Crime
    Is down and the good cops are
    Multiplying slowly. Loeb and Flass
    Aren’t able to hold their own any
    Longer.

    RÂ'S AL GHÛL
    All of that will change very soon. Things are looking up.

    Râ's al Ghûl smiles evilly as he takes another puff from his cigar.

    EXT. GOTHAM STREET – CAR – NIGHT

    LT. JAMES GORDON takes a drag of his cigarette as he leans against the police car. He turns to look down an alley as DETECTIVE ARNOLD FLASS comes out of the shadows counting money. Flass looks to Gordon and smiles.

    FLASS
    You want some?

    GORDON
    No, thanks.

    FLASS (Shrugging.)
    Your loss.

    Flass gets in the driver’s seat of the car. Gordon gets in the passenger’s seat. Flass starts the car and they take off down the road.

    EXT. ANOTHER GOTHAM STREET – NIGHT

    Bruce, Pamela, Harvey, and Talia are all walking together down the street. Bruce has his arm around Pamela’s shoulder. Harvey walks beside Talia, very nervous.

    HARVEY
    So, umm... I would assume that your
    Father doesn’t care for me much...

    TALIA
    Why is that?

    HARVEY
    Well, I am one of the hopefuls for
    District Attorney... Don’t you
    Think he considers me the enemy? He
    Might get upset seeing me with
    You...

    TALIA
    I wouldn’t be so sure of that.
    Besides, what makes you so sure
    That he would consider you an
    Enemy? He does legitimate business
    Here in Gotham.

    HARVEY (Smiling.)
    Alright, you keep your secrets
    Then, but I’m gonna watch my back.

    TALIA
    As you wish.

    Pamela smiles to Bruce as they both look in each other’s eyes.

    PAMELA
    I would assume that you don’t want
    To go to the theatre where it all
    Happened, right?

    BRUCE (Sighing.)
    Yeah...

    PAMELA
    Stupid, Pamela. Real stupid
    Question.

    BRUCE
    It’s alright. It needed to be said.
    Isn’t there a new cinema now?

    PAMELA
    Yeah. Built last year.

    BRUCE
    We’ll go there then.

    A man in a mask comes around a corner and pulls a gun up at Pamela’s face. The four stop in their tracks.

    MASKED MAN
    Money! Now!

    Bruce stands there in shock as his mind rushes back to his parents’ murders. His eyes turn to anger as he stares forward.

    MASKED MAN (Cont’d.)
    Now, damn it!

    BRUCE (Whispering.)
    Not again.

    Bruce quickly kicks the gun out of the masked man’s hand faster then lightening. The masked man looks on in shock.

    MASKED MAN
    Who the hell are you?

    BRUCE
    Your worst nightmare.

    The masked man takes off, running down the street. Bruce takes off after him.

    PAMELA
    Bruce, don’t!

    Bruce won’t stop as he continues after the masked man.

    PAMELA (Cont’d.)
    Harvey, stop him!

    Harvey takes off after Bruce.

    EXT. FURTHER DOWN STREET – NIGHT

    The masked man continues to run, looking back occasionally to see that Bruce is still chasing after him.

    MASKED MAN
    Leave me alone, man!

    The masked man rushes into an old warehouse. Bruce runs in after him. Harvey isn’t far behind.

    HARVEY
    Bruce!

    Harvey goes inside as well.

    INT. OLD WAREHOUSE – NIGHT

    Harvey looks around everywhere in the darkness. He can’t see Bruce or the masked man anywhere. He starts up the stairs as quickly as he can.

    INT. OLD WAREHOUSE – SECOND FLOOR – NIGHT

    Harvey emerges on the second floor in shock as he sees the unthinkable. Bruce is pounding the life out of the masked man at the far end of the place. Harvey rushes over and pulls Bruce off of him.

    HARVEY
    Bruce, stop it! That’s enough!

    Bruce fights against Harvey to get back to the masked man. He breaks one hand free and while punching the masked man again, manages to pull the mask off. Bruce’s face turns to shock. In the little light coming from out of the nearby window, Bruce can see a face that is etched into his mind forever. However, the face is showing utter fear as he lays there, a bloody mess. Joe Chill is in fear of his life.

    Pamela and Talia run up the stairs suddenly and stop as they see what has happened. Tears come to Bruce’s eyes as he looks on.

    BRUCE
    You... It was you... You killed
    My... parents.

    The others are shocked by this development.

    BRUCE (Cont’d.)
    Harvey, let me go, now!

    Harvey’s grip becomes tighter and he continues to hold Bruce at bay.

    BRUCE (Cont’d.)
    Let me go!

    HARVEY
    That wouldn’t be wise.

    BRUCE
    I’m gonna kill him!

    HARVEY
    That’s why it’s not wise.

    Joe Chill crawls away from Bruce and Harvey. He cowers in a corner as Pamela and Talia move over to Bruce and Harvey. Bruce finally settles down a little. Harvey let’s go of Bruce only to have to grab hold again just to stop Bruce from attacking Chill.

    HARVEY
    This isn’t your problem, Bruce.

    BRUCE
    To hell it isn’t, Harvey! He killed
    My parents!

    HARVEY
    Let the police handle it from here,
    Bruce.

    BRUCE
    They won’t do shit about him.

    TALIA
    I’ll call them.

    Talia pulls out her cell phone and starts dialing.

    CHILL
    No, please! Don’t call the police!
    I beg you!

    BRUCE
    Yeah, that’s too good for you. You
    Don’t deserve the easy way out!

    Bruce still struggles to get out of Harvey’s grip.

    HARVEY
    Bruce, it’s over. Stop it. He’s
    Going to jail.

    Bruce’s crying becomes more intense as he buries his face into Harvey’s jacket arm. Pamela kneels down to Bruce and places her hand on his shoulder.

    FADE TO:

    EXT. AL GHÛL MANOR – GROUNDS – NIGHT - STORMY

    It is slowly beginning to storm as we see lightning in the distance. We are shown an exterior shot of the al Ghûl Manor. It is a large, menacing structure in the dead of night, but even more so when thunder booms in the background and lightening strikes nearby. The camera slowly moves toward a large window on the second floor. We see something standing in front of the window looking outside.

    INT. AL GHÛL MANOR – STUDY – NIGHT – STORMY

    It is Râ’s al Ghûl that is looking out the window. He is drinking a dry martini as he watches the rain start to fall outside. He sighs as a door at the other side of the room opens. Râ’s turns to see his faithful servant, UBU, standing there. Râ’s raises an eyebrow.

    UBU
    Your guests have arrived.

    RÂ’S AL GHÛL
    Thank you, Ubu. Send them in.

    Ubu nods and leaves the room. Seconds later, Salvatore Maroni steps into the room, followed by a skinny man in all white. He has a mustache and short white hair. This is CARMINE “THE ROMAN” FALCONE. The next man to enter is very large with short white hair and a nice tailored suit. This is RUPERT THORNE. The final man enters. It’s The Penguin!

    RÂ’S AL GHÛL
    Gentlemen, please have seats.

    Everyone sits down in a semicircle in the comfortable chairs. Râ’s sits at his desk.

    RÂ’S AL GHÛL (Cont’d.)
    It is nearly time to act. Your
    Patience has paid off. We will very
    Soon have the means of completing
    Our ultimate plans for Gotham City,
    And soon the rest of the world.

    THORNE
    What makes you so sure, Râ’s? I
    Wouldn’t hold so much hope as yet.
    Things are getting worse.

    RÂ’S AL GHÛL
    So Salvatore already tells me.
    Please, understand Mr. Thorne, I am
    Doing the best I can to prove to
    You that I am looking out for your
    Futures.

    PENGUIN
    So you say, sir, but I can’t help
    But wonder what it is that you’re
    Really planning.

    RÂ’S AL GHÛL
    Do you believe that I’m holding
    Something back from you, Mr.
    Cobblepot?

    PENGUIN (Getting nervous.)
    No. I wasn’t saying that... I was
    Just...

    RÂ’S AL GHÛL
    Accusing me of being unfaithful to
    The society?

    Râ’s stands from his desk and moves around it to the others. He is walking with a cane that we hadn’t seen before. Râ’s stops at The Penguin and looks at him in anger. Penguin gulps as he looks up to the menacing man before him. Râ’s quickly pulls the hilt of his cane, bringing out a hidden sword. He places it right at Penguin’s throat. Penguin gulps as he looks on in fear.

    RÂ’S AL GHÛL (Cont’d.)
    You stink of fear, Oswald.

    Falcone stands up and pulls a gun on Râ’s. Râ’s turns to look at Falcone and smiles.

    FALCONE
    That is enough.

    RÂ’S AL GHÛL
    Do you mean to kill me, Carmine
    Falcone?

    Râ’s moves the sword away from Penguin’s neck and places it back into the cane.

    RÂ’S AL GHÛL (Cont’d.)
    That question was asked of me by
    Adolph Hitler himself, my friend,
    Before I killed him. Don’t assume
    To know what my intentions are.
    That goes for all of you. I don’t
    Take kindly to deception.

    Falcone puts his gun away and sits down. Salvatore smiles from his seat. He’s enjoying this.

    RÂ’S AL GHÛL (Cont’d.)
    Remember this, gentlemen, I don’t
    Have to involve you in my plans at
    All. Consider yourselves lucky that
    I have aloud the lot of you to be
    Worthy leaders for when the new
    World is created in my vision. Now,
    Get out of my sight.

    Râ’s starts back to the window as the mob bosses all stand and leave slowly. Râ’s raises his drink again. He toasts his reflexion in the window.

    RÂ’S AL GHÛL (Cont’d.)
    To the Second Eden. May it come
    Soon and swift.

    INT. WAYNE MANOR – BEDROOM – MORNING

    Bruce Wayne wakes up only to find Alfred standing over him with a tray.

    ALFRED
    I thought breakfast would be in
    Order, sir.

    Bruce sits up and tries to wipe the sleep from his eyes. Alfred sets the tray on Bruce’s lap. Bruce looks down at the tray to see a plate of eggs and bacon. There is a glass of milk beside the plate.

    ALFRED
    Harvey called this morning. He
    Informed me of the incident last
    Night.

    BRUCE
    If it’s all the same to you, I’d
    Rather not discuss it.

    ALFRED
    Well, perhaps it needs to be, sir.

    Bruce moves the tray off of him and pulls off the blankets. He stands up and pushes past Alfred.

    ALFRED (Cont’d.)
    It is only human to feel rage and
    To want to seek revenge.

    BRUCE
    I should know better, Alfred. I
    Have been trained to quiet my
    Mind... to forgive... I was
    Enraged... I wanted to kill him...
    If Harvey hadn’t been there... I
    Would’ve...

    Bruce turns back to Alfred. There are tears in his eyes.

    BRUCE (Cont’d.)
    When I first left Gotham, it was so
    I could defend myself... but in the
    Back of my mind, it was because I
    Wanted the means to get revenge,
    Fight against injustice, and to
    Protect the innocent... Since I’ve
    Got back, I haven’t done a damn
    Thing to prove my worth to my
    Teacher, the one person that taught
    Me everything I needed to know.
    I’ve become weak again, Alfred.
    Being around Harvey and Pamela
    Again has caused me to revert back
    To my teenage years. I’m only
    Thinking about them and myself. I
    Can’t look past that to the more
    Broader picture.

    ALFRED (Concerned.)
    What is it that you think you can
    Even do? You are only one man. One
    Man cannot change the ways of the
    Entire city.

    BRUCE
    Well, I’m going to do my damnedest
    To try. Did you find the
    Information I wanted on Anthony
    Gordon?

    ALFRED (Nods.)
    He retired earlier this year.
    Commissioner Loeb thought he
    Deserved a very early retirement.

    BRUCE
    Early retirement?

    ALFRED
    There are rumors that he had dirt
    On Loeb about his and a certain
    Detective Flass’s involvement with
    The Falcone family and the Maroni
    Clan. If the rumors had been proven
    As fact, Gordon would be
    Commissioner now, but fear caused
    Him to be silenced and released.

    BRUCE
    I know what I have to do.

    Bruce starts over to his dresser and begins looking through for a suit.

    ALFRED
    You going to Wayne Enterprises,
    Sir?

    BRUCE
    No, Alfred. I’m going to the Police
    Department.

    ALFRED (Confused.)
    Why, sir?

    Bruce turns back to Alfred.

    BRUCE (Smiling.)
    I’m going to become one of the boys
    In blue.

    Alfred steps forward in shock as Bruce turns back to the dresser.

    ALFRED
    Sir, this is very out of the
    Ordinary. You have many things to
    Do already with Wayne Enterprises
    Now that you’re a partner with
    Lucius. I honestly believe that you
    Will end up over working yourself.

    BRUCE
    I have to put my training to good
    Use, Alfred. Besides, being a
    Wayne, I’ll be an officer, doing
    Good, before the end of the night.

    ALFRED
    Speaking of which, sir, the
    Elections are tonight. Weren’t you
    Planning on going to Harvey’s
    Celebration at his campaign
    Headquarters?

    BRUCE
    Damn. I forgot about the election.

    ALFRED
    Exactly, sir, and what good could
    You do as an officer of the law in
    This city anyway? You would have to
    Answer to dirty cops like Loeb and
    Flass. There aren’t any good ones
    Left.

    BRUCE
    I disagree, Alfred.

    ALFRED
    And just why is that?

    Bruce looks down to the tray that Alfred had brought in. There was also a newspaper on it. He picks up The Gotham Globe and looks at the front page. He turns it to Alfred. There is a picture of Joe Chill’s arrest. Cops are taking him away. One of the cops is Jim Gordon.

    ALFRED (Cont’d.)
    Sir, don’t you even think about it.

    BRUCE (Confused.)
    What?

    ALFRED
    You are not going to join the force
    Just so you can get your hands on
    Chill again.

    BRUCE (Sighing.)
    Alfred, you’re not supposed to look
    At Chill.

    Bruce walks over and points to Jim Gordon.

    BRUCE (Cont’d.)
    That’s Anthony Gordon’s son. He’s a
    Lieutenant now. I’m going to
    Request that he train me, and since
    I’m a Wayne, I don’t think they’ll
    Deny my wish... if they want to
    Receive some donations this year
    From The Wayne Foundation.

    ALFRED
    That still doesn’t explain the
    Election party.

    BRUCE
    I’ll be there, Alfred. Harvey has
    Nothing to worry about.

    INT. POLICE DEPARTMENT – LOEB’S OFFICE – DAY

    Commissioner Loeb sits behind his desk. He is looking over several papers. He seems extremely confused. He looks up at Bruce Wayne sitting in front of him.

    LOEB
    I’m sure you’ll believe me, Mr.
    Wayne, when I say that this is
    Highly unorthodox.

    BRUCE
    I understand, Commissioner.

    LOEB
    You really want to do this?

    BRUCE
    I do, under a trial basis of
    Course.

    LOEB
    Well, I must say that The Wayne
    Foundation has always been generous
    With their donations. They do try
    Hard when it comes to making the
    Police department a better, more
    Equipped, and less corrupt force.

    Loeb smiles. Bruce raises an eyebrow not believing it obviously.

    BRUCE
    That is what Lucius Fox told me.

    LOEB (Nodding.)
    Well, I suppose all is in order...
    Are you sure that you want to work
    With Gordon? He’s never been the
    Happiest sort of man. I’ve always
    Fancied him as boring as well.

    BRUCE (Looking at watch.)
    Commissioner, if you please, I
    Would...

    LOEB
    Oh, that’s right. You have that
    Election party to get to tonight.
    I’ll let you meet Gordon now so you
    Can get some early training in.

    BRUCE
    Thank you, Commissioner.

    LOEB
    Thank you, Mr. Wayne. I hope you’ll
    Enjoy your experience here.

    BRUCE
    I’m sure I will.

    Bruce stands and shakes Loeb’s hand.

    INT. POLICE DEPARTMENT – HALLWAY – DAY

    Bruce closes the door to the office. He starts off for Gordon’s office, but runs right into someone. He looks to the tall, muscular man to see Arnold Flass looking at him.

    FLASS
    What are you looking at, pretty
    Boy?

    BRUCE
    Nothing. I was just...

    FLASS
    Out of the way.

    Flass walks into Loeb’s office, slamming the door.

    BRUCE
    Cheery sort of guy...

    GORDON
    You have no idea, friend.

    Bruce turns around to see Jim Gordon walking down the hallway toward him. Bruce smiles and extends his hand. Gordon accepts.

    GORDON (Cont’d.)
    Mr. Wayne, it’s so good to finally
    Meet you.

    BRUCE
    Same to you, Lt. Gordon. I look
    Forward to working with you for how
    Ever long it ends up being.

    Gordon and Bruce start down the hallway.

    GORDON
    I wish I knew what you were up to.

    BRUCE
    What do you mean?

    GORDON
    Well, most rich guys would never
    Dream of joining the force. I have
    A feeling you’ve got some sort of
    Motive, and in that case...

    Gordon stops and pulls Bruce aside as a few cops walk by.

    GORDON (Cont’d.)
    I hope you’ll leave it be. You
    Have no idea who you’re dealing
    With in this place.

    BRUCE
    Well, isn’t that why I’ve come to
    You?

    GORDON
    You seem to know more then you
    Should. You’re not trying to
    Investigate my father’s retirement,
    Are you?

    BRUCE
    Lieutenant, I think it would be
    Best if...

    GORDON
    Yes, I know. Let’s go.

    Gordon starts walking with Bruce beside him.

    GORDON (Cont’d.)
    I’ll take you to the locker room.
    You can try out a uniform and we’ll
    Go on a patrol so you can get used
    To it. Loeb already told me about
    The election party so I’ll make
    Sure that your first lessons are
    Short.

    BRUCE
    I would like to come back later for
    The late shift tonight, if you’re
    Willing to.

    GORDON
    Actually I’m already working late
    Tonight anyway. We have a possible
    Bust tonight... one of the big
    Ones. We think we might get a
    Member of the Society tonight.

    BRUCE
    What’s the Society?

    Gordon shushes him.

    GORDON (Whispering.)
    All in good time, my friend. Don’t
    Talk to anyone about this. Loeb and Flass aren’t aware of it. I have
    Reason to believe that they’re
    Working with them.

    BRUCE (Whispering.)
    Your father?

    GORDON (Whispering.)
    Yes.

    Gordon stops at the door to the locker room.

    GORDON (Cont’d.)
    I’ll be waiting by the car out
    Front. Don’t take long.

    BRUCE
    Yes, sir.

    Bruce goes into the locker room. Gordon smiles and shakes his head as he starts off.

    INT. SQUAD CAR – DAY

    Bruce is now in his uniform. He seems to be happy as he looks over to Gordon in his brown trench coat. Gordon just stares forward, driving.

    BRUCE
    So, about this Society...

    GORDON
    They’re the cooperative efforts of
    The mob bosses in this city. We’ve
    Never been able to lay a hand on
    Any of them... until now...

    BRUCE
    How is tonight any different?

    GORDON
    I’m not sure... The rumor is though
    That it’s an inside job. Someone
    Within the Society, I don’t know
    Who, but someone wants someone else
    Out.

    BRUCE
    No honor amongst thieves I see.

    Gordon nods.

    GORDON
    You catch on quick, Wayne.

    BRUCE
    Thank you, sir.

    INT. CITY HALL – ELECTION PARTY ROOM – NIGHT

    Harvey Dent stands at a podium. Bruce, Pamela, Talia, Fox, and Alfred all sit in chairs behind the podium. Cheers are heard throughout the audience in attendance. Balloons and confetti are all over the floor. It is apparent that Harvey has won the election.

    HARVEY
    Thank you all. Thank you very much.
    When I first set out to become
    District Attorney of this city, no
    One believed that I could do it.
    There were so many in doubt of my
    Abilities. Some even questioned my
    Psychological state, but none of
    Them were able to sway the voters
    Away. I am here to stay, ladies and
    Gentlemen. This city is going to
    Make a big turn around. I can
    Guarantee you all that this city
    Will be safe before the end of the
    Coming year. I can promise you that
    Crime will no longer be tolerated.
    Gotham City is about to make a turn
    For the better as I will stand for
    The justice that this city has been
    Lacking in for so many years. This
    Above all else, I promise to all
    The fair citizens of Gotham. Thank
    You again, and please enjoy the
    Party.

    The crowd cheers again as Harvey steps down from the podium and goes over to the others as they all stand. Harvey shakes Fox’s hand.

    FOX
    Congratulations, Harvey.

    He hugs Pamela.

    PAMELA
    You did good.

    He shakes Bruce’s hand.

    BRUCE
    I’m proud of you, Harv. You’ve done
    What I could never do.

    He hugs Alfred.

    ALFRED
    And I am proud of you as well. You
    Have always been like a son to me,
    Just like Master Bruce. You have
    Brought hope to this old man.

    He then kisses Talia on the cheek. She smiles to him as he places his arm around her shoulder and turns to look at all the other important people in his life.

    HARVEY
    I’m glad that you’re all here. I
    Wouldn’t have it any other way.

    Harvey looks over to a small table on the same stage that they’re on. There are many glasses of champagne. He picks up a glass and hands it to Talia. He then picks up another for himself. The others take their own glasses. Harvey raises his. The others do the same.

    HARVEY
    To all of you. Without every single
    One of you in my life, I would’ve
    Never reached this point. To Alfred
    Pennyworth, for taking care of me
    In my young years when my parents
    Were too busy fighting to raise me.

    A tear comes to Alfred’s right eye.

    HARVEY (Cont’d.)
    To Bruce Wayne, whose friendship
    Has meant more then any amount of
    Money in the world ever could.

    Bruce nods.

    HARVEY (Cont’d.)
    To Pamela Isley, who got me started
    On my track to politics and law
    All those years ago in high school.

    Pamela smiles.

    HARVEY (Cont’d.)
    To Lucius Fox, who showed me the
    Ropes of business and the
    Understandings of responsibility.

    Fox raises his glass and smiles, embarrassed.

    HARVEY (Cont’d.)
    And finally, to this little woman
    Here that I barely know... And it
    Just leaves me asking one thing to
    Pam: where have you been hiding Her?

    Everyone laughs.

    HARVEY (Cont’d.)
    But in all seriousness, I hope that
    This team right here stays strong
    And together always. You have all
    Been what has kept me together. I
    Would be lost without any of you.
    So, to all of you.

    Harvey raises his glass. Everyone else raises theirs and they all toast each others glasses.

    INT. CITY HALL – ELECTION PARTY ROOM – DANCE FLOOR – NIGHT

    Harvey and Talia are dancing. Bruce and Pamela are dancing nearby. This is why they’re able to have dialogue.

    HARVEY
    So I heard that you joined the boys
    In blue, Bruce...

    BRUCE
    Where did you hear that from?

    HARVEY
    Oh, Bruce, you know that I have my
    Connections.

    BRUCE
    And just who would those be?

    HARVEY
    Can’t tell ya.

    PAMELA
    Why did you do that? It’s a little
    Strange.

    TALIA
    I think it’s heroic.

    PAMELA
    You would. Talia’s always been one
    Of the melodramatic.

    BRUCE
    I just want to make a positive
    Difference, no matter how long I’m
    Doing it.

    HARVEY
    Oh, so this is just one of your
    Little trends, huh?

    BRUCE
    What?

    PAMELA (Laughing.)
    That’s right. I can remember the
    Time that you started a coin
    Collection. I thought it was the
    Silliest thing in the world, but
    You wanted to do it anyway.

    BRUCE
    And I ended up giving the coins to
    Harvey in the end.

    HARVEY
    Exactly. This is just another of
    Those instances. I bet you won’t
    Last three days.

    PAMELA
    I’m betting on two.

    TALIA
    I call dibs on the end of the
    Night.

    Bruce is stunned.

    BRUCE
    And here I thought I had friends.

    Everyone laughs.

    INT. SQUAD CAR – NIGHT

    Bruce is back in uniform now with Gordon driving again.

    GORDON
    Have fun?

    BRUCE
    I suppose... A lot on my mind.

    GORDON
    Elections will do that. You sure
    You’re up to joining in on this
    Bust?

    BRUCE
    Absolutely. I want to know who one
    Of these Society members are. Maybe
    I can help out with the identities
    Of the other members.

    GORDON
    Wayne, remember what I said about
    Getting involved? You’re in
    Dangerous water here.

    BRUCE
    Loeb and Flass can’t control me.

    GORDON
    Maybe they can’t, but people like
    Carmine Falcone can.

    BRUCE
    The Roman? What’s he got?

    Gordon laughs. He looks over to Bruce and raises an eyebrow.

    GORDON
    Where have you been, Wayne? Under a
    Rock? The Roman owns a large part
    Of this town.

    BRUCE
    Then perhaps he’s in the Society.

    GORDON
    It’s possible, but there’s no
    Proof. You have to have the
    Concrete evidence before you can
    Just go around making claims. In
    This town, you can get shot for
    That... Hell, you could get shot
    For revealing the evidence. That’s
    How bad Gotham is. The good people
    In this town are few and far
    Between. I just hope Dent knows
    What he’s doing. He may be the only
    Hope Gotham has.

    BRUCE
    He isn’t the only hope.

    Gordon looks back over.

    BRUCE (Cont’d.)
    There’s still us.

    They both laugh.

    INT. ABANDONED BUILDING – NIGHT

    We are on the second floor of the building. Rupert Thorne is leading several of his men as they go over toward a small vault. Thorne starts twisting the dial to put in his combination.

    GOON 1
    Why you wanna move all this,
    Thorne?

    THORNE
    Someone is getting just a tad too
    Insane in the Society. It’s time
    That I took care of certain assets.

    Suddenly there is the sound of police sirens and the red and blue lights come through the windows of the building. Thorne stands in shock.

    THORNE (Cont’d.)
    No! They can’t be here! I can’t be
    Seen. Stop them.

    Thorne takes the papers from the vault and makes a mad dash for a roof ladder. Just as he reaches the top, the entrance door from the stairs bursts open as the cops flood into the room, shooting their guns at the goons who were already shooting at them. Bruce enters and looks up just in time to see Thorne exit from the ladder onto the roof. Bruce starts climbing.

    GORDON
    Wayne! Stop!

    Bruce ignores Gordon as he keeps climbing. Gordon is suddenly shot in the arm as he yelps. He falls to the ground. Bruce looks down in concern, but sees that Gordon is alright and covered by the other officers. He continues climbing.

    Click to go to Part 2

    9/12/2006 2:20:01 AM
    (Updated: 9/12/2006 2:59:06 AM)

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