BATMAN: KRONOS

by Marcio Catalano

Based on characters created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane.
KRONOS is an original story created by Marcio Catalano and Eddie Smith.

BATMAN KRONOS © 2023
Marcio Catalano
Eddie Smith
All Rights Reserved
Batman and all related
Characters
DC COMICS INC
All Rights Reserved

Marcio Catalano
Marcio@MarcioCatalano.com

Eddie Smith
visualatrium-edsmith.com

BATMAN: KRONOS
A cacophony of sounds. Helicopters, sirens… screams.

OPEN ON

EXT. HERA MEMORIAL CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL – ROOFTOP – DAY

BATMAN. Clenched, bleeding teeth.

BATMAN

How many times are we going to do this?

JOKER

Until you realize what you are.

BATMAN

(producing Batcuffs)

It’s over!

JOKER

(grinning sheepishly)

But… (cough)… d-don’t you want to hear… the punchline?

INSERT

Joker turns his wrist. The underside of his prosthetic arm opens revealing… a DETONATOR. It reads “LAST LAUGH.”

PULL BACK

BOOM! A MASSIVE EXPLOSION leveling everything.

CUT TO BLACK

BATMAN: KRONOS
SUPERIMPOSE TITLE PAGE:

“batman: kronos”

TITLE DISSOLVE – FIRST LETTER “O” IN TITLE TO MATCH CUT

BATMAN: KRONOS
An EYE, peering through a hole.

PULL BACK TO REVEAL

SUPERIMPOSE:

“5 YEARS LATER”

THE BATCAVE. An aged ALFRED PENNYWORTH inspects a damaged BATSUIT. He slowly moves to an INCINERATOR, tosses it in.

BATMAN: KRONOS
Tucked into an adjacent alcove, a REJUVENATION TANK hums with low lights, silhouetting a man bathing in fluid. A.P., a UTILITY ROBOT, monitors his status.

Alfred waits, turns on a TV MONITOR.

TV ANNOUNCER (VO)

This is NEWS 10 NOW.

A NEWS ANCHOR appears onscreen.

BATMAN: KRONOS

NEWS ANCHOR

Good morning and welcome to a special edition of our show. Today our story focuses on the five year anniversary of what is considered the blackest day in Gotham history.

A LOUD DECOMPRESSION of the robot releasing a PRESSURIZED HATCH, interrupts. The man rises from the tank, dripping.

news anchor (cont’d)

A day of tragedy which saw two hundred thirty three lives lost, mostly children, and hundreds more injured at Hera Memorial Children’s Hospital. I’m talking about the events of 11/12. A long painful evolution for Gotham that began with a near eight month cleanup and recovery at the ground zero site and took over four years to complete, culminating with the Hera Memorial.

BATMAN: KRONOS
BRUCE WAYNE lowers himself groggily to the floor. Alfred approaches, hands him a towel.

ALFRED

Have you given thought to what you’ll wear to the ceremony?

BRUCE

About as much as I thought about attending.

ALFRED

I thought so. That’s why I took the liberty of selecting something… It’s on your valet.

BACK TO

news anchor

The past is always difficult, for as we honor those we love with remembrance, we try to forget the events that took them away. This is Spencer Sowell for GNN. God bless and…

Bruce moves to the console, turns off news.

Bruce sits, painfully pulls a sweater over his head. Bruises decorate his ribs and shoulders. His HAND TREMBLES.

BRUCE

(notices Alfred staring)

What?

BATMAN: KRONOS
Alfred averts his gaze, picks up a nearby BREAKFAST TRAY.

ALFRED

I didn’t say anything, Master Bruce.

BRUCE

That’s what judgmental glares are for. Say it.

ALFRED

Everything has its season. Sooner or later, even the noblest of causes must end.

BRUCE

You don’t give up do you? I don’t know what’s more painful, the bruises or the lectures.

Alfred sets the tray forcefully on Bruce’s lap.

bruce (cont’d)

Ow!

ALFRED

The bruises, apparently.

Alfred begins to walk away, stumbles. Bruce rushes to his aid, directs him to a chair.

BRUCE

Take it easy, old friend.

Alfred waves off Bruce’s concern.

BATMAN: KRONOS
EXT. WAYNE MANOR – CLIFFSIDE – TWILIGHT

Bruce stands on a cliff edge watching a sunset.

INT. CRIME SCENE – DUSK

LIEUTENANT KEITH CARTER, 40’s, African American, one of ROBBERY HOMICIDE DIVISION’S finest is on his mobile while DETECTIVE BILLY PRICE, late 20’s, Caucasian, Soap Opera handsome, examines the scene.

KEITH

(sotto voce)

That’s not the deal, Aleshia. You knew I had her this weekend… Check the court order!

detective PRICE

Lieutenant.

KEITH

You can’t do this!

DETECTIVE PRICE

Um, Lieutenant?

KEITH

(into phone)

Hold on…

(to detective)

What?!

Aleshia hangs up.

Detective Price holds up a FEMALE STATUETTE, the size of a Chess piece, between gloved fingers.

EXT. GOTHAM CITY – THE NEXT DAY

ESTABLISHING SHOT of the GOTHAM SKYLINE. RED, WHITE AND BLUE LIGHTS BEAM upwards from behind buildings.

EXT. HERA MEMORIAL PLAZA – CONTINUOUS

A procession of UNIFORMED OFFICERS, on opposite sides of an unfolded AMERICAN FLAG, march to the beat of RHYTHMIC DRUMS and BAGPIPES.

When they stop, a WOMAN’S VOICE bellows beautifully high above the crowd. Officers salute and citizens with hands on their hearts pay respect to THE NATIONAL ANTHEM.

A BELL RINGS for a moment of silence.

NAMES OF THE VICTIMS are heard over LOUDSPEAKERS.

The VICE PRESIDENT, GOVERNOR, MAYOR, DA CAMI HARRISON, COMMISSIONER GORDON, LT. CARTER and his TEAM, GCPD, prominent CITY OFFICIALS, and nefarious ORGANIZED CRIME FIGURES, stand in respect.

With deep emotion, hands reach out finding NAMES on THE WALL. Some affixing flowers.

Another PLAQUE lists names of FIRST RESPONDERS.

Bruce stands composed, but Alfred notices a slight HAND TREMBLE.

ALFRED

(discreet)

Master Wayne, I think we’ve been here long enough.

Bruce nods.

They move briskly through the crowd, minimizing eye contact.

Alfred guides Bruce toward the exit when an elegant finger attached to a ring and big stone tug on his shoulder. VERONICA VREELAND, socialite, classic beauty, grabs him.

veronica

Where have you been? Don’t tell me you’re leaving without saying hello!

BRUCE

(politely nervous)

Hey Ronnie.

VERONICA

Alfred, where have you been hiding him… in a cave?

Alfred’s eyebrows rise at the choice of words.

veronica (cont’d)

It’s been years, Brucey.
Oh, let me introduce you to my hubby!

Bruce masks his anxiousness as she grabs the arm of a distracted man, holding drinks. He’s a stark contrast to Bruce… ordinary, forgettable, a beta.

VERONICA (CONT’D)

Bruce, this is Chip Jerguns.

chip

(juggling hors d’oeuvre’s)

Mr. Wayne! I’ve heard so much about you. Nice to finally meet you.

BRUCE

Pleasure.

(to both)

I heard it was a beautiful wedding. You got my gift?

VERONICA

Yes, it was lovely but…

(pokes him, pouts)

When I send you an invite, I expect you to be there!

BRUCE

Forgive me… work.

ALFRED

(sarcastic)

In his cave.

VERONICA

(to Alfred’s comment)

Ha, ha…

(to Bruce)

Same old Bruce. Oh, by the way…

(shows off tummy, whispers)

… we’re expecting!

Chip, stressed, drinks.

BRUCE

Congratulations.

VERONICA

Thank you. Say, when are you going to settle down? You might be getting handsomer, but you’re not getting any younger.

Suddenly, HARSH MIC FEEDBACK BLARES through monitors, followed by a CHILD CRYING. As the mic feedback increases, Bruce grabs his head.

VERONICA

Bruce, are you alright?

ALFRED

(interjecting)

Master Wayne, we should go.

(cordially)

Madam, Sir.

Bruce painfully waves goodbye as Alfred quickly escorts him off. The couple look concerned.

EXT. BRUCE’S CAR – LATER

Bruce is nauseous, sweating. Alfred gives him water.

INSERT

Their car drives away.

EXT. KEITH’S HOME – NIGHT

ESTABLISHING SHOT

INT. KEITH’S HOME – DEN – CONTINUOUS

A TV screen lights up an otherwise dark room.

NEWS MONTAGE

INSERT – GNN (GOTHAM NIGHTLY NEWS) TITLE

A COURT SCENE.

news anchor (vo)

Prosecutors had been seeking the death penalty, but The Jokers defense team has argued he isn’t competent to stand trial. Judge, Fitzgerald Turnbull, who is presiding over the case, has granted a stay of execution pending a competency hearing. The prosecution has stated it will file an appeal.

INSERT – A CONCERNED WOMAN IN THICK GLASSES

CONCERNED WOMAN

He took two hundred thirty three lives! What about what the families have been through? There’s a reason we’re mad! We’ve seen this city get worse and worse and madmen like him are still alive! Now he’s pleading insanity and they’re debating whether he can stand trial? How does that happen? It’s not right… It’s just not right!

INSERT – A BLACK TEEN

black teen

I don know, man. They talkin bout justice but… ain’t no justice, ya know I’m sayin?

INSERT – AN ARMENIAN MAN

ARMENIAN MAN

(shaking his head)

The system? The system isn’t broken… Is made this way, man. Wake up!

D.A. CAMILLA “CAMI” HARRISON

CAMI HARRISON

(insincere)

We sympathize with the families and are doing everything in our power to get justice for the victims. I believe today was one step closer to helping hearts heal…

Keith turns off the screen, murmurs under his breath. It’s clear he has no love for the D.A.

INT. GCPD – D PLATOON “SWAT” – NEXT DAY

SWAT COMMANDER, ROCKLIN “ROCK” LEE (40’s), Caucasian, battle hardened, briefs his squad.

ROCK

… per your briefing, the medical examiner found traces of an exotic substance on the toxicology report of the two victims. A designer sedative known as Trazepam that’s exclusively distributed by Ramses and crew. We have the search and arrest warrants… our main objective is to bring Ramses safely into custody. More importantly… at the end of the day, we come home safe.

(eyes a few hotshot officers)

Alright, everyone knows their assignments!

The team disperses.

EXT. STREET – LATER – 4AM

An ARMORED SWAT TRUCK, PAIR of BEARCATS and TWO UNMARKED SUV’S speed through.

INTERIOR POV – SWAT TRUCK

SWAT TEAM seated, their features obstructed by gear.

ratliff

Wake up, Knowles! You tired fuck.

KNOWLES

Ugh, baby kept us up all night again.

RATLIFF

Told your ass! You knock em up, no more time. Game over.

mason

At least he can get a girl, unlike your sorry ass.

SWAT members cackle.

ratliff

I’m good! Got ninety nine problems but a wife and kid ain’t one.

LEE

(calls back)

Alright, let’s focus! Coming up on it now!

They arrive to the intended location, doors swing open, the SWAT TEAM spills out, synchronized.

lee (cont’d)

Alright guys, stack up.

The RAID TEAM sneaks to the FRONT DOOR as the others secure the perimeter.

LEE

(helm com link, hard whisper)

I got high! I got high!

SWITCH POV – INSIDE OF RAMSES HOME

An OVERWEIGHT THUG games on a VR system.

TWO THUGS GAMBLE at a table while ANOTHER drops BLU EYE, a designer drug, and makes out with his GIRLFRIEND.

A LANKY THUG strolls through the living room. He spots shadows moving outside a window, thinks he’s hallucinating until…

SFX: HARD DOOR KNOCKS

swat LIEUTENANT (vo)

Police department! Search warrant! Po…

LANKY THUG draws a weapon, fires. Chaos erupts as BLASTS rip through the home in both directions.

A BURLY SWAT OFFICER BASHES the DOOR with an AUTO-RAM.

Another tosses in a SONIC PULSE GRENADE. It detonates with a DEAFENING PULSE and BLINDING LIGHT, disorienting the thugs.

YELLS are heard as SWAT rushes in.

BOYFRIEND THUG

(taking GF hostage)

I’ll fucking kill her!

He turns his weapon, fires at the officers, hitting one. Immediately, he’s riddled by shots… some hitting his girlfriend.

LEE

Check the back!

A far BEDROOM DOOR, flies open. A HIDDEN THUG sprays cops with an AUTO-PULSER. TWO SWAT go down… one is KNOWLES.

SWAT fires back, killing him.

REMI, a weaselly looking thug, 30’s, cringes in a closet. He slides aside the INNER WALL exposing a HIDDEN PASSAGE, escapes in the confusion.

A ROOKIE SWAT OFFICER enters the room first.

ROOKIE SWAT

(yells back)

Clear! Commander, I got something!

Lee approaches, sees the hidden exit.

cut to – backyard of home

A HELICOPTER heard above.

LEE

I have a suspect on foot. White male, approximately 6 feet, 170 lbs, White hair. Wearing a green track suit and white sneakers.

INSERT

A CUL DE SAC

MANHOLE COVER slides open. Remi rises, runs.

INSERT INT. POLICE HELICOPTER

HELICOPTER PILOT

I have visual on the suspect. In pursuit.

The PURSUIT HELICOPTER tracks Remi.

A PAIR of PATROL CARS chase and intercept him.

Remi surrenders and is taken into custody.

INT. GCPD – LATER

Remi sits in a segregated cell. Seeing that Gordon has intervened, Lee is furious. A few of his MEN, hover in the background.

lee

I want to talk to him.

GORDON

For what?

lee

Two of my men are dead!

GORDON

Our men!

lee

What is with you, Gordon? Why are you protecting a cop killer?

GORDON

This cop killer is entitled to due process like everyone else. He’s also Robbery Homicide’s only shot at finding the killer.

(eye to eye)

Let it go, Rock.

Lee grudgingly backs off, returns to his guys.

LEE

(to rookie)

Just cause they’re on your team, don’t mean they’re on your side, remember that.

BATMAN: KRONOS
EXT. WAYNE MANOR – ESTABLISHING SHOT – NIGHT

A BAT hangs from a tree limb against the backdrop of a PALE FULL MOON.

INT. BATCAVE – CONTINUOUS

Alfred scans his palm on a CONTROL PANEL, then enters a CODE. TWO LARGE VAULT DOORS embedded in the cavern walls begin to close.

He rounds the corner to a TRAINING PLATFORM.

His lower half outfitted in a PROTOTYPE BATSUIT and GAUNTLETS, Bruce’s battle scarred body glistens from the intense training.

Alfred checks the COMPUTER SCORE ANALYSIS as A.P. hands Bruce a towel.

ALFRED

A hair slower than normal. Perhaps some rest is in order?

BRUCE

(ignores comment)

The new gauntlets are improved.

ALFRED

Yes, but the prototype still needs a few more modifications and the software needs debugging.

BRUCE

What’s this new thing?

ALFRED

Retractable…

Before Alfred can finish, Bruce carelessly TAPS on the GAUNTLET, a BLADE EXTENDS, almost slicing his chin.

ALFRED (cont’d)

… blade. One shouldn’t solely rely on tech.

Bruce RETRACTS the BLADE, then makes his way to the BATCOMPUTER.

BRUCE

Gordon sent files.

ALFRED

Oh?

BRUCE

Two homicides. No prints, no footage, no motive…

ALFRED

Two-Face?

BRUCE

He’s still in Arkham. In both cases, artifacts were left at the crime scenes.

(Alfred interested)

Non-descript, female figurines. Lab report indicates they’re bone.

ALFRED

Were the victims female?

Crime scene images appear on the monitor.

BRUCE

They were children.

Alfred looks horrified.

INT. GCPD – NEXT MORNING

Remi shoots a cocky glance at Lee and company, as he collects his items and walks free.

EXT. GOTHAM MUSEUM OF HISTORY – FRONT PLAZA – LATE MORNING

It’s a pleasant sunny day as CHESTER WINSCOTT,(60’s), academic but genial, takes a podium in front of a crowd.

chester

Thank you for being here everyone… What a lovely crowd. “Learning through discovery” has always been the core mission of the Gotham Museum of History. It’s often asked “Why is history important?” And the answer, for me at least, is simple… “Because history is the greatest teacher.” Sometimes imparting high moments of human achievement and other times, dark moments of pain. Simply put, history tells us who we were, shows us who we are, and hints at who we can be. For the future is a choice and that choice creates a legacy. That thing we decide today that becomes the burden or grace of those who come after, when we are gone. When we are history… What is the legacy we’ve chosen to leave behind? Hopefully it’s a bright one… A better one, for future generations.

(looks to Bruce in audience)

And today that legacy continues through the generous contribution and continuous support of a man who shares that vision of a bright future. I could not be more proud or grateful than I am today, to Mr. Bruce Wayne. Without his contribution, there would be no new wing or collection.

The crowd applauds as Bruce sits humbly, deflecting praise. His HAND TREMORS, slightly.

chester (cont’d)

I can tell Bruce would rather skip his speech and I’m sure you all didn’t come to hear an old man ramble… So, let’s enjoy! Shall we?

People cheer, move toward the museum entrance.

INSERT

A BRASS PLAQUE READS – THE WAYNE FOUNDATION – GMH WEST WING

INT. GMH WEST WING – CONTINUOUS

Bruce is admiring a GLASS CASE OF ATLANTEAN ARTIFACTS when a BOY (12), runs into him.

woman (VO)

Malcolm!

(approaches)

Apologize to the man.

boy (malcolm)

(sarcastic)

Sorry… man.

The WOMAN gives Malcolm a stern look.

Malcolm

(nervous, corrects)

Sorry, sir.

Malcolm slinks off.

WOMAN

(to Bruce)

Sorry about that.

BRUCE

It’s OK. Your son?

WOMAN

Student, though it does feel like it sometimes.

BRUCE

Ah. History Teacher.

WOMAN

Science actually… I’m subbing. Although when it’s not your normal class, they do test you. So today it’s teacher, slash mom, slash superhero.

BRUCE

(offers his hand)

I’m Bruce…

WOMAN

I know who you are… Pleasure.

BOY (Vo)

Ms. Winters! Malcolm’s hitting me!

WOMAN (Ms. WINTERS)

(looks back)

Well, duty calls. Nice meeting you… Mr. Wayne.

She hurries off.

BRUCE

I didn’t get your name!

MS. WINTERS

(herding students to next room)

Hope!

She smiles, disappears.

CLOSE ON – Bruce smirking curiously.

EXT. SOUTH GOTHAM – NEIGHBORHOOD STREET – DAY

A BALL races towards an alley, stopping at a PAIR OF BLACK BOOTS. A poor, filthy BOY, approaches, cautiously looking up at the stranger. Scared, he grabs the ball.

By the time he returns to his friends, the foreboding presence is gone.

INT. WAYNE MANOR – GREAT ROOM – AFTERNOON

Alfred dusts the fireplace mantle, intricately working around family pictures. He pauses a moment, catching his breath.

He walks past piled packages at the entry.

INT. ALFRED’S QUARTERS – LATE

Alfred sits at his desk, pulls out an old envelope. It’s addressed to Bruce.

INT. WAYNE MANOR – GRAND ROOM – MORNING

Alfred squints through reading glasses, clears email slowly on a TABLET. One grabs his attention.

ALFRED

Hmm, it seems you have a request from Gotham High School. They’re inviting you to be a guest speaker for their science club.

BRUCE

(reading finance news on tablet)

I can’t. Besides, didn’t I sponsor their science competition this year?

ALFRED

Yes, but there are contributions greater than money… ones’ time.

BRUCE

Time is what I don’t have.

ALFRED

Very well, I’ll tell the sender, this Miss Winters, that you’re not available.

Hearing that name, Bruce’s interest piques.

BRUCE

Wait Alfred.

INT. GOTHAM HIGH SCHOOL – MORNING

SUPERIMPOSE:

“1 week later”


BRUCE

(serious)

Hi. I’m Bruce Wayne… CEO of the Wayne Foundation and the founder of Wayne Tech. Um, I’ve been in charge of my company for over twenty five years and it’s been a big responsibility. But I couldn’t do it alone… I’m fortunate that I have a wonderful team of industry professionals that have worked together closely for many years. We make some of the worlds fastest semiconducters, like in your coms…

Bruce points to a familiar looking BOY, on his COM DEVICE.

HOPE

(stern look)

Malcolm!

Malcolm reluctantly puts his device away.

BRUCE (CONT’D)

Um, there’s a lot of things we manufacture that I believe will help shape the future… In fact, we’re using some of that technology right now to upgrade Wayne Tower.

The students look bored. Hope looks uncomfortable for Bruce.

BRUCE (cont’d)

(knows he’s bombing, switches gears)

Maybe you’ll be interested in this.

Bruce reaches into a small CASE, pulls out a pair of NEXT GEN SPECS. 

BRUCE (CONT’D)

They’re the base model and they haven’t gone to market yet but, they’re going to change the way we interact with the world.

Mesmerized, the students react in a collective “Whoah!” Ms. Winters, smirks.

BRUCE (CONT’D)

… want to try them?

The students erupt with excitement. Bruce winks at Hope.

BRUCE

Hmm, there’s a lot of you… glad I brought enough for everyone.

Bruce opens a large box of the devices.

EXT. GOTHAM HIGH – AFTER

As Bruce gets to his car…

HOPE

(rushing up)

Mr. Wayne!

Bruce looks back.

HOPE (CONT’D)

You left quite an impression. Young people need more good role models. Thanks for making the time.

BRUCE

Well, some contributions are greater than money.

HOPE

I wish I could repay you.

BRUCE

How about dinner?

HOPE

Mister Wayne… are you hitting on me?

(feigns disapproval)

Hardly the place.

BRUCE

I’m sorry. I was…

HOPE giggles. Bruce looks confused.

HOPE

I’m messing with you… You’re so serious!

(Bruce smirks uncomfortably)

I’d love to!

BATMAN: KRONOS
EXT. SOUTH GOTHAM – DARK DISTRICT – NIGHT

LT CARTER and SGT YOHAN WIGHT, Caucasian, a fit 50’s, grissled vet, manuever through busy streets of the BLACK MARKET.

Anything one could want is here; Designer Drugs, Exotic Hybrid Pets, Cybernetic Appendages, Memory Market, Hacker tools, pleasure workers… both, human and bots.

A cute girl chewing gum, casually blows a bubble, while her boyfriend Vapes and feels her up, underneath her tight shirt.

A HOMELESS MALE, missing body parts, sits against a wall watching the pair pass.

A shady PAKISTANI MAN limps up to the pair.

shady pakistani

Hey boss, good for some BLU EYE?

Suddenly, a GROUP of GUYS appear around the corner, spot the peddler.

group leader

(rubbing irritated eyes)

There’s that motherfucka! Sell me fake shit! I’ll kill you!

Pakistani man flees as the group chases him.

EXT. CLUB AFTERLIFE – ENTRANCE – CONTINUOUS

CARTER and WIGHT arrive at a monolithic block building with unassuming exterior.

A MOUNTAIN OF A DOORMAN blocks the entry.

KEITH

We’re here to see Ramses.

doorman

He busy. Come back another time, bruh.

Wight produces a holographic search warrant.

A SECURITY CAM tilts its lens down at it.

The Doorman touches his EARPIECE, lets the two through, mad dogging as they pass.

INT. CLUB AFTERLIFE – CONTINUOUS

Inside, CARTER and WIGHT make their way through the main area. The interior rises in a triangle, like the GIZA PYRAMID. Overhanging VIP balconies alternate, like ascending steps.

On the far end, two MASSIVE BUSTS of ANUBIS, God of the Afterlife and BASTET, Cat Goddess, watch over the audience.

The ground floor splits between a main level and sunken dance floor surrounding a CIRCULAR CENTER PEDESTAL.

It houses an elevated DJ BOOTH with LASERS BEAMING down, caging an attractive Asian female working equipment in a HALF MOON setup. Keith recognizes her. DJ COSMA-NAUGHTY, famous and expensive.

A sea of drug induced zombies, writhe and sway to trancy beats.

In CASSIOPEIA formation overhead, a quintet of scantilly clad cirque performers dangle.

Wight points to one of the upper floor GLASS VIP ROOMS.

They make their way up, arriving at an entrance guarded by a small militia and heavy surveillance. More command center than lounge.

A large TONGAN MAN, 30’s, with sumo ponytail and rubber banded braided chin hair, steps forward.

tongan man

Sup foo?

A heavy bass voice interjects.

heavy bass voice (vo)

Junior, where your manners, man?

(warm)

Come on in, detectives!

Junior steps aside, letting Keith and Wight pass.

RAMSES, African American, 30’s, heavily pierced, imposing muscular bull-frame, lounges casually, surrounded by scantily clad androgynous types. His eyes, hidden by HI-TECH LOCS.

RAMSES

What can I do for you, gentleman?

KEITH

We found Trazepan in victims on a case.

RAMSES

And?

KEITH

Thought you could help since you’re the only one dealing it.

RAMSES

Well, damn… if you wanted some BLU EYE, you coulda just asked, nigga! You didn’t have to SWAT my pad.

Laughs all around, as Ramses plays to his crowd. Remi stands among the crew.

KEITH

I’m not playin.

RAMSES

Oh, you playin alright. Dangerous game, cause you up in here with just one of yo boys… you braver than I thought, detective.

KEITH

Lieutenant.

RAMSES

(bold)

Like I said, you braver than I thought.

(to his crew)

Ya know, I saved this nigga from a freshman ass whoopin when we was in high school…

(back to Keith)

Look at him now! Hell, If I squint hard enough…

(tilts shades down, exposing ICY BLUE EYES)

…he even looks like a cop.

KEITH

It’s amazing to me that these fools buy into this act… and, it is an act, with your bullshit pageantry. Cause when I look at you, I still see plain old Lamont Booker from the South Siiiide! Worse haircut now, though.

RAMSES

Ha, ha… charming, but I ain’t got nothing for you, lieutenant… So get the fuck out my club!

RAMSES, dismissive, turns his attention to his GIRL TOYS.

Keith takes a sudden step forward. Ramses reacts but it’s too late. Keith grabs him by his NOSE RING while thrusting his sidearm in his crotch.

Through his peripheral, Keith sees every gun drawn, surrounding them.

LATER – OUTSIDE

WIGHT

What the hell was that?!

KEITH

Ancient history… besides, it’s not him.

EXT. FAMILY HOME – OUTSIDE – DAY

TV SCREEN

GARRETT FINKLE, DIRECTOR of GOTHAM WATERWORKS, is flanked by his WIFE and several AIDES.

finkLE

Beverly has been missing for almost a week now. We are overwhelmed by the situation but also grateful for the efforts of the Gotham Police Department, who’s been working diligently to locate her. Beverly is a smart, popular, kind young lady. Captain of her swim team, very involved in several school clubs. We couldn’t have asked for a better daughter. If anyone has any information, please… We need to know she’s safe.

(pause)

Tomorrow is her birthday…”

He gazes down, unable to continue.

INT. WAYNE MANOR – NOON

The DOORBELL RINGS. Alfred answers, finds a natural beauty smiling kindly at him.

ALFRED

(surprised)

Hello. May I help you?

HOPE

Hi. Yes, I’m meeting Bruce? I’m Hope.

ALFRED

(smiles warmly)

Ah, yes… yes, you are.

Bruce suddenly comes up behind Alfred.

ALFRED (CONT’D)

Should I prepare something?

BRUCE

Uh, no that’s OK Alfred. We’re going out for lunch.

ALFRED

(raised brow, curious)

I see.

Bruce and Hope walk off to her car.

INT. HOPE’S CAR – SHORTLY AFTER

BRUCE

Ya know, I’m not used to this. Normally I do the picking up.

HOPE

Oh, I’m sure you do.

BRUCE

That’s not what I meant.

HOPE

Ha, ha… I’m just teasing! Unconventional can be good. You don’t always need to be in control… might help you lighten up, Mr. Wayne.

BRUCE

(tries to)

You can call me Bruce.

HOPE

OK… Bruce.

Hope smirks playfully.

INT. GREEK EATERY – LUNCH TIME

Bruce studies the casual decor.

HOPE

Not fancy enough?

BRUCE

No, I believe food and company make the moment.

HOPE

Agreed. Besides, the Baklava here is the best in town!

BRUCE

I’ll save room. So, tell me your background.

HOPE

(playful)

Am I being interviewed for a job?

BRUCE

(playful back)

To be determined.

HOPE

Well, I was a science nerd growing up, which means I was awkward and ugly. But, my parents encouraged me because I had ambition and a dream to invent something that would change the world, or… at least, something useful.

BRUCE

Did you?

HOPE

No, I became a practical adult and settled for a job.

BRUCE

Oh, why?

HOPE

Sometimes we give up on the things we want most out of fear, and take what’s easy.

BRUCE

Do you have a big family?

HOPE

Only child. Like yourself.

(awkward pause)

Oh, I’m sorry… I…

bruce

It’s OK. My family… it’s not a secret.

hope

(changing subject)

What about you? Do you have any secrets?

Hope intently stares playfully, attempting to chip away at Bruce’s controlled exterior. He doesn’t verbally respond, just smiles politely.

HOPE (CONT’D)

Hmm, I think you do… You should share with me!

BRUCE

Oh really?

HOPE

Uh huh, I’m good at keeping secrets.

BRUCE

(changing topic)

How about a family of your own?

HOPE

You’re deflecting… Someday, I hope. Haven’t had much luck though. Seems nowadays not many men want kids. Which brings us to the question… Why are you still single? And don’t deflect this time.

BRUCE

That’s… complex.

HOPE

Not complicated?

BRUCE

A little… It just hasn’t happened, yet.

HOPE

Heard that one before. Well, it’s not something that just happens, right? You have to make it happen.

BRUCE

True, but a family is a big responsibility. Takes up time… Something I don’t have much of.

HOPE

Well, that’s also something you make time for. Have you always wanted to be “busy” when you grow up, Bruce?

BRUCE

(chuckles)

Actually, I wanted to travel. I really wanted to be an explorer and see the world… and, I’ve done some of that but… What about you? Have you always wanted to be a teacher?

HOPE

No, and I wasn’t always a teacher.

BRUCE

What did you do before?

HOPE

Corporate liaison. But I realized at one point, I wasn’t doing anything important… just making money. And I wanted to do something meaningful, so… teaching became that. And I’m doing science!

BRUCE

(holds up wine glass, salutes)

Everyone makes a buck, not everyone makes a difference.

HOPE

I’ll toast to that.

With mutual smiles, they clink glasses.

Suddenly, Bruce’s WRISTCOM VIBRATES. It’s the BATSIGNAL.

int – WATER TREATMENT FACILITY – LATE night

A LARGE STEEL CHAMBER

A PRETTY YOUNG GIRL, (13) comes to. She notices a breathing tube placed at her feet.

DARK GLOVES turn a VALVE.

WATER slowly SEEPS into the chamber.

Her eyes widen in fear.

EXT – WATER TREATMENT FACILITY – EARLY MORNING

KEITH passes the crime scene barrier tape and officers. His crew is surveying it.

KEITH

(turns on a recorder)

What do you got?

WIGHT

Beverly Finkle, Female, Thirteen… Her father, Garret Finkle, is the Director of Gotham Waterworks.

KEITH

(surprised)

Same MO as the last two.

MONTOYA

Graveyard shift operator found her in this chamber when her body partially clogged the system. A breathing apparatus was also found with the victim.

KEITH

That’s new. He trying to give them a chance now?

WIGHT

Family confirmed she could swim. But, long exposure to cold water would have caused hypothermia. She would have tired… probably fell asleep.

JOSEPH “JOJO” JOH, 30’s, handsome, approaches.

joh

(holding up a bagged statuette)

And uh… there’s this.

A MALE FIGURE holding a TRIDENT.

INT. BATCAVE – MIDDAY

ALFRED

It appears to be the Greek God, Poseidon. There are six Olympians… Hera, Hestia, Demeter, Poseidon, Hades…

BRUCE

And Zeus. All siblings. I know.

ALFRED

Correct. That means that this pair symbolize two of Hera, Hestia or Demeter.

BRUCE

So, we can expect three more.

ALFRED

(to himself)

Yes, but why children?

BRUCE

I’m not sure. Child murder is rare… but somehow, I suspect the Joker’s involved.

ALFRED

Really, Master Bruce? Why do you say that?

BRUCE

He’s always involved… besides, the first was Hera.

Alfred acknowledges the obvious connection.

BRUCE (CONT’D)

Speaking of Hera… the Osteological analysis of the Hera statuette matched a patient at the Children’s Hospital, which means…

ALFRED

He was at Ground Zero.

Bruce culls footage from the site using IRIS, a video capture space telescope developed by Wayne Tech, pointed at Gotham.

ALFRED (CONT’D)

Seeing this… reminds me of that day. I thought I’d lost you. When AP finally located you among the rubble… It was like a miracle.

BRUCE

(looking kindly at his sentimental friend)

I got it Alfred… you saved my life. Thank you.

(looks back to monitor)

This might take a while.

HOURS LATER

Alfred comes down with BISCUITS and TEA.

ALFRED

Any progress?

BRUCE

Maybe… take a look at this.

Alfred approaches the screen.

It plays a video of a FIRST RESPONDER suspiciously hovering in a traffic-less area near a child partially buried by debris. After a moment, the man kneels and tugs at the corpses leg. What he’s doing is unclear.

ALFRED

What is that?

Bruce pauses the video, zooms in. The RESPONDER holds a MINI-SAW and BONE FRAGMENT. The video also catches a glimpse of the man’s arm. Bruce punches in closer.

BRUCE

This Reaper tattoo.

ALFRED

Wraith Squadron?

Bruce taps a button. The computer displays a found match.

bruce

This guy’s Air Force Special Ops.

EXT. BATCAVE – DUSK

The AV-11 NATALUS jets from the cave mouth, soaring upwards, flanked by thousands of awakening bats.

BATMAN: KRONOS
SERIES OF SCENES

BROADCAST – SCREEN

SPENCER SOWELL (ON CAMERA)

… ongoing investigation of Garrett Finkle for his role in the water crisis dating back twenty five years, exposing citizens of impoverished communities of South Gotham to dangerous and toxic public water. We go live now to where the Finkle family is giving a statement related to the recent murder of their young daughter, Beverly.

INSERT

BEVERLY’S MOTHER stands behind a PODIUM, flanked by Beverly’s father, Garret Finkle and others.

BEVERLY’S MOTHER

You take the life of innocent children. Why? I stay up at night, asking myself… but no reasonable answer comes.

CUT TO

A GLOVED HAND LINGERS IN FRAME, while a MOBILE DEVICE PLAYS the TELECAST.

His arm bears a TATTOO of a WRAITH and TWO CRISS-CROSSED SWORDS and a GLOBE. The insignia reads “WRAITH SQUADRON. THE HAUNT NEVER ENDS.”

Insignia

Tattoo

BATMAN: KRONOS
BEVERLY’S MOTHER (Cont’d)

I can only imagine that you must be so full of hate. Hate for this world… hate for everyone in it… hate for yourself. If you knew what it felt like to lose the person you love most… I hope you burn in hell!

THE FIGURE smashes the device.

BATMAN: KRONOS
CUT BACK TO LIVE – PODIUM

beverly’s mother (cont’d)

(trying to compose herself)

I’m sorry…

She starts to cry. Her husband goes to comfort her, but she slaps his hand away, walks off.

He attempts to save face, publicly.

EXT. ARKHAM ASYLUM – NIGHT

ESTABLISHING SHOT

INT. ARKHAM ASYLUM – MAIN ENTRANCE – CONTINUOUS

Batman passes through an ENTRY GATE with HEAVY SURVEILLANCE.

On the other side, a ROOKIE GUARD gives a SENIOR GUARD an uncertain glance. The Senior Guard motions for Batman to pass, with utility belt.

COMMISSIONER GORDON is waiting with HEAVILY OUTFITTED and ARMED GUARDS.

BATMAN

How’s it going?

GORDON

I got internal affairs up my ass with officers under investigation and now… this Kronos killer. I promised Barbara I’d spend more time with her… Retirement can’t come fast enough.

A STEEL DOOR OPENS as they enter a corridor.

gordon(cont’d)

He’s not too happy. Isolated from the outside and with this new Daedalus Maze tech.

They pass inmates… Starting with “H. DENT.”

GORDON (CONT’D)

His cell is insulated by a 44,000 SQ FT shell of narrow passageways that reconfigures itself every thirty three minutes.

They pass “J. CRANE.”

BATMAN

Fancy.

GORDON

At least it’s not costing taxpayers, courtesy of our friend Bruce Wayne. If he does escape, which he won’t, this buys us time.

And finally “V. ZSASZ.”

GORDON (CONT’D)

(worried Batman’s right)

Bastards been listening to it, searching for a pattern! We’ll have eyes on you the whole time… get what you need and let’s go home. No one wants to be here.

They arrive at the next checkpoint. On cue, LARGE RED STEEL DOORS automatically unlock. Batman passes through as they SHUT behind him.

He follows a BRIGHTLY LIT STERILE CORRIDOR that boomerangs. His FOOTSTEPS, the only sounds. All the while tracked by SURVEILLANCE.

He finally arrives at a door. For a moment he stops… hesitates.

Then, a SENSOR triggers and the door SLIDES OPEN.

Batman enters a CUBED ROOM.

INT. ARKHAM ASYLUM – CUBED ROOM – CONTINUOUS

BATMAN looks into a WALL OF IMPENETRABLE GLASS. His reflection stares back.

Then, slowly, it begins to blur. In a matter of seconds, the image settles on a hybrid monstrosity of two halves.

BATMAN: KRONOS
JOKER is pressed lightly against the glass.

JOKER

Been a while since I had a visitor. I wouldn’t have preferred anyone else.

BATMAN

We need to talk.

JOKER

Oh, really? This ought to be interesting.

BATMAN

There’s a series of killings…

JOKER

Kronos.

BATMAN

(suspicious)

How do you know?

joker

Oh, spare me the suspicion… everyone knows. A child killer in Gotham that neither the police nor Batman can catch.

BATMAN

Is he one of your friends?

joker

Tsk, tsk, tsk… They don’t let me have friends in here…

(presses against glass)

Except you.

WIDE PROFILE SHOT

Standing face to face, Bats is dwarfed by Joker, who menacingly looks down at him. The dense glass from a moment ago, seems fragile now.

JOKER (CONT’D)

A lot has happened since we last saw each other. Did you know, I was in a coma for two years?

FLASHBACK – ARKHAM INFIRMARY

SUPERIMPOSE:

“5 YEARS AGO”

A FEMALE DOCTOR scribbles on a chart while Bruce waits.

older guard

Hey doc!

(visibly nervous)

Whoah, is that…?

FEMALE DOCTOR

Yeah. They found him after a few days, buried under all that rubble.

older guard

He looks like a mummy.

female doctor

Yeah, well, he broke most of his bones and he’s in a coma. With all the injuries he’s sustained, be a miracle if he lives.

MEDIUM SHOT

SINGLE OCCUPANCY ROOM

Bruce Wayne peers through glass. JOKER in full body cast on a gurney, being wheeled away.

NURSE

Mr. Wayne, you can go in now. The director is waiting in his office.

JOKER (VO)

Are you listening, Bats?

Batman snaps out of it.

BACK TO PRESENT DAY

JOKER (CONT’D)

Everything’s changed. What should have torn us apart, somehow brought us closer together. You being here is proof of that. What if we weren’t meant to be enemies, but allies? I heard I wasn’t the only one in rehab.

BATMAN

(impatient)

I need to know if you’re behind this.

joker

I’m locked up here.

batman

Never stopped you before.

joker

True, but this time our friends at Arkham and that ham, Bruce Wayne, have finally done a good job. If you want to punish a man, don’t take anything away… give him time alone with his thoughts.

(taps fingers to head)

He’ll do it himself. You must really need my help or you wouldn’t be here.

BATMAN

I caught you without help, remember?

JOKER

And I blew up a hospital, remember?

Batman’s anger begins to stoke.

JOKER (cont’d)

You need someone like me, to catch someone like me.

No reply.

JOKER (cont’d)

I’ll help… but I want something.

BATMAN

What?

JOKER

Let’s test your instincts, detective… It’s something I’ve wanted for a long time.

BATMAN

You want to know my identity.

JOKER

Oh no! That would be boring. If I knew who you were, I wouldn’t know who you are. That guy’s a facade, whoever he is. This is who you really are!

(softening)

I want a pet.

BATMAN

That’s out of the question.

Joker moves idly to a table with a card deck.

JOKER (CONT’D)

I only want something to pass the time. What’s one tiny kitten or maybe a goldfish? I have no contact with the outside world, no company.

(picks up deck, shuffles)

One can only play solitaire, in solitude, solo, so many times…

(randomly selects and flips over Joker card)

It’s enough to drive you mad.

(pause)

Maybe you can ask your friend, Bruce Wayne? Since he’s already been so generous in providing me with this minimalist home.

Joker stares pointedly at Bats.

BATMAN

No pets.

joker

(abrupt shift)

We should have died that day, ya know? You and I. You ever wonder why we only survived?

BATMAN

(stoic)

Those children didn’t deserve to die. A lot of people want you dead.

JOKER

If no one wants to kill you, you’re not important. And those kids, died because you tried to save me.

Batman makes a puzzled, dismissive gesture.

JOKER (CONT’D)

You don’t believe that… So why did you hesitate?

Jokers words don’t make sense. Just mind games. Then… doubt slowly begins to creep in.

FLASHBACK – HMCC ROOFTOP

Batman replays the event slowly in his memory. He locks on the exact moment where he could have acted, and in that nanosecond, the Dark Knight, sees a slight hesitation. Fear… No!

A faint HAND TREMOR starts. BATMAN fights to keep his composure.

BATMAN

Since you’re in the mood for games, I’ll come back when you’re ready to be serious.

Batman turns to the door.

JOKER

But we aren’t done yet! If you leave, I’ll have no one to talk to… except myself.

Batman taps the TOUCH PAD insistently. When it slides open, he exits quickly.

JOKER (cont’d)

Well, at least with yourself… you can always agree.

Joker finds his comment to himself amusing. ECHOING LAUGHS follow.

BATMAN: KRONOS
CUT TO

EXT. ARKHAM ASYLUM – CONTINUOUS

Batman rushes into the rainy cool night air. Free from Arkham’s maddening confines, he fights to breathe, clutching his chest and feeling his heart pound. A panic attack.

Almost to the AV-11, he becomes light headed, blacks out. 

INT. WAYNE MANOR – STUDY – LATER

Bruce awakens. His head pounds, his blurry vision clearing to a warm familiar face.

ALFRED

Hello, young man. Good to see you’re still with us.

BRUCE

Wh-What happened?

ALFRED

A.P. and I brought you home. You had an episode.

Bruce sits up, his final thoughts at Arkham slowly trickling in. He feels something familiar but.. distant. Helpless. He couldn’t stop 11/12… just like he couldn’t stop the death of his parents.

BRUCE

No one survived… Except him, Alfred.

ALFRED

And you… for good reason, I believe.

BRUCE

But why is he alive?

Alfred offers no answer.

BRUCE (CONT’D)

(trembling now)

I almost did it. Did I let those people…

ALFRED

No, Master Bruce! No… You could have done nothing more! Besides, we are not responsible for the actions of others, especially a madman! Now stop these thoughts. No more dwelling on the past.

(hinting)

You have a long day tomorrow… and a dinner, I believe? Rest is what’s in order. Yes.

Alfred puts a comforting arm on Bruce’s shoulder, ushering him off to bed.

INT. WAYNE MANOR – NEXT EVENING

Bruce preps as Hope and Alfred watch curiously.

BRUCE

(proud)

My secret recipe.

ALFRED

(whispers to Hope)

It must be. I’ve never seen him make it… or anything for that matter.

Hope giggles.

BRUCE

I heard that.

HOPE

Well, it smells good!

BRUCE

Linguine with clams!

Bruce takes LINGUINE, BREAKS it in half. Alfred cringes, watching this pasta faux pas.

ALFRED

Sir, that’s not…

BRUCE

(overconfident)

I got it, Alfred!

LITTLENECK CLAMS slip from his hands, hitting the floor.

Alfred and Hope intervene. Hope aids Bruce, while Alfred cleans the floor.

HOPE

May I?

Bruce concedes. Hope grabs new pasta, puts it in the boiling pot.

HOPE

Never break pasta… it’s considered “bruto” in Italy.

ALFRED

How will you survive Master Bruce, if you can’t make a proper meal?

BRUCE

I can always order out.

ALFRED

(to himself)

It’s graver than I imagined.

Hope and Bruce chuckle.

LATER – AFTER DINNER

HOPE

I’m so full.

ALFRED

Too full for desert?

HOPE

Never.

BRUCE

Cannoli’s. Don’t worry, I didn’t make them.

ALFRED

I picked them up from Stella’s. While I prepare them, why don’t you give Miss Winters a tour?

Bruce’s WRISTCOM VIBRATES.

BRUCE (CONT’D)

(sighs)

Ugh, the overseer needs me to look at a few things… shouldn’t be long. Alfred can entertain you.

TIME LAPSE

WAYNE TECH – Bruce oversees the buildings upgrades.

BATMAN: KRONOS
WAYNE MANOR

HOPE and ALFRED eat Cannoli’s.

She helps him tidy up after.

They chat by the FIREPLACE over tea.

EXT. WAYNE MANOR – LATE

Bruce enters exhausted. Alfred appears from his dimly lit room.

ALFRED

I prepared a room for the Misses since I didn’t think it wise for her to drive home so late and full of wine.

BRUCE

Good idea.

ALFRED

She waited a long while for your return.

Bruce peeks in, sees Hope fast asleep, smirks. Alfred watches Bruce with a smile of his own.

BRUCE

How do you know if someone’s the one?

ALFRED

I’m afraid I’m not the best counsel for matters of the heart. I’m a life long bachelor. I believe you are more experienced in that arena.

BRUCE

Yeah, but experience doesn’t equal wisdom.

ALFRED

True. At least you’re wise enough to know that.

BRUCE

How do you know you love someone? I mean really know?

ALFRED

Hm, I have a theory…

(Bruce, attentive)

It’s someone honest. Someone who challenges, but respects you. Someone you can be with, without needing to do anything… where you can be yourself. A connection in unspoken moments because they see you, and you them. A person, where your world is better with them in it.

(pauses, sums it up)

Someone who feels like home.

BRUCE

Sounds nice… and long. No guarantee I’ll find that.

ALFRED

Oh, there are no guarantees in anything, in life… but one should start there. Because even if they checked off all the boxes on one’s list… that would still be missing.

Bruce nods, it makes sense.

HOPE

(suddenly awake)

Bruce?

ALFRED

(on cue)

I’d better retire. Good night Master Bruce.

HOPE

I wonder if one day I’ll have you all to myself without work interfering.

BRUCE

(enters room)

Story of my life.

HOPE

You know, they say ninety percent of human communication is non-verbal.

BRUCE

Really? What am I communicating right now?

HOPE

That you like me…

(playful, stares deep)

… and that you are a very naughty boy.

BRUCE

(playful back)

You should be used to that in your line of work.

They kiss.

INT. RHD DIVISION – ROOM – AFTERNOON

A MONITOR PLAYS THE NEWS

SPENCER SOWELL (on screen)

… a clip from when our own Laura Scott sat down with the D.A. to discuss politics, criminal justice reform, and motherhood.

INSERT INTERVIEW

CAMI HARRISON

Like I tell everyone, I’m a woman of commitments. To this city, to a fair and impartial justice system, to my husband and my son.

LAURA SCOTT

You mention your family last.

cAMI

Well, I, huh… unfortunately that’s the commitment. They’re not last in my heart, but regrettably sometimes family takes a backseat to the pursuit of the greater good.

laura scott

By the way, congratulations. I’m told your fourteen year old son who is highly gifted, will be attending college this fall.

CAMI

Yes! Thank you. We’re very proud. It’ll be an adjustment cause the other kids are a lot older, but he’s handling it well. He knows his momma expects a lot. He’s a brilliant young man with a bright future.

LAURA SCOTT

Like his mother, on the path to the Governorship.

cami

(disingenuous laugh)

Well, we’ll see.

BACK TO

spencer sowell (on screen)

The governorship, for a gifted woman in politics… seemingly assured…

CUT TO

CAMI HARRISON GIVING IMPASSIONED SPEECH

cami

We know what’s right. It’s time to do the right thing!

BACK TO

SPENCER SOWELL (ON CAMERA)

But suddenly there are doubts over former cases she had overseen. A shining star within the D.A. office with a high conviction rate, some now are questioning how those convictions were obtained. Evidence supporting coercion and other less than lawful tactics are starting to surface and her once sterling reputation is beginning to tarnish. Till next time, this is Spencer Sowell for GNN.

INT. RHD DIVISION – ROOM – AFTERNOON

Keith is kicking back, shoes off, replaying case notes on his RECORDER when one of his team, DETECTIVE RENEE MONTOYA, Latina, early 40’s, approaches.

MONToYA

New notes?

(Keith nods)

Zip em to us?

KEITH

V Card…

(Keith indicates a memory card)

I’ll make a copy for everyone.

MONTOYA

Boss, ya know the department’s got tech from this decade, right?

KEITH

Yeah, but this one’s special… birthday gift from my daughter. Old school but it works.

The rest of the team, Detectives WIGHT, PRICE and JOJO, spill in.

KEITH (cont’d)

So, what do we got?

No one wants to break the news that they have no new leads.

montOyA

Only the victims bone statuettes from the CS.

Keith looks around, disappointed more with the situation than effort.

WIGHT

We don’t know the order he uses to choose his victims. We worked out possible patterns… alternating genders, sibling hierarchy, by attribute, but with this last murder, it now seems he isn’t following any of these and it may just be random.

MONTOYA

There’s no evidence, no fingerprints, no footprints. Even the crime scene footage… surveillance is always cut right before the murders.

KEITH

Which means they’re proficient in surveillance and tech.

joJO

We ran the usual suspects and fomrer law enforcement and military. He ain’t in the database.

wight

Aside from profile and motive, we’re also having trouble identifying which heirs he’ll target since there are multiple potential candidates. There’s a lot of rich people in this city.

The team is silent when Gordon enters, gestures for Keith.

KEITH

(approaches)

We still got nothing. This guy’s a ghost.

GORDON

(whispers)

I have a friend who might be able to help.

Keith looks at Gordon curiously.

EXT. GCPD ROOFTOP – NIGHT

Gordon waiting, hears footsteps approach.

KEITH

Man, this is some clandestine shit. Well, I’m here. What’s up?

Batman suddenly DECLOAKS next to Gordon.

KEITH

(startled)

Jesus! What the..? Gordon, the hell are you dragging me into?

GORDON

He called the meeting. Listen.

KEITH

Oh, he called the meeting? Oh hell no! This man is a vigilante that we should not be associating with, let alone involving in a police investigation.

GORDON

Carter, please don’t lecture me on the law.

KEITH

We don’t need him!

GORDON

With the way this investigation’s going, we need every resource.

KEITH

If this department is going to regain it’s reputation, it needs to start by holding itself accountable… that means not relying on outsiders to do our job.

BATMAN

(to Keith)

You’re leads are wrong. It’s not Ramses.

KEITH

Motherfucker, I ain’t talking to you!

BATMAN

The murders are serial killings from an unknown individual, not in your database.

KEITH

(lying)

And yet we have evidence linking Ramses!

BATMAN

So why did Remi walk? Trazepam is too obvious. You can’t be that naive.

KEITH

(steps to Batman)

Man, you know what, I’m already tired of your ass…

GORDON

(between both men)

Calm down! Look, we all want the same thing… justice. There are innocent children dying and we don’t have time! We need to focus on whatever we can do to find Kronos!

Keith, frustrated, steps away to calm himself.

GORDON (CONT’D)

(to Batman)

He’ll be fine. Look, even locked up, the Joker still has influence. I just can’t see how he’s communicating with Kronos. He’s in the most advanced cell with 24-hour surveillance. Everything he’s allowed is triple checked… It’s just not possible.

BATMAN

It’s the Joker, anything’s possible.

gordon

See if you can get more out of him, before the verdict. We’ll keep working our end.

Keith pivots back, finds Gordon standing alone.

GORDON (CONT’D)

(to dumbfounded Keith)

You get used it.

GOTHAM CENTRAL COURTHOUSE – BASEMENT – OLD CELL ROOM

A MIXED BOY, (14), awakens as he’s doused with FUEL.

PULL BACK

His mouth DUCT TAPED. Wrists behind his back, HANDCUFFED to a steel chair.

A SINGLE MATCH floats through the air, slowly.

FIRE RISES as Kronos steps through the FLAMES.

BATMAN: KRONOS
MATCH CUT – LATER – CRIME SCENE

BLACKENED BURNS color the chair and room.

Keith takes a tilted look at the old cell from outside.

keith

They knew exactly what they were doing.

WIGHT

Security cameras were bypassed. No one saw anything. It wasn’t until smoke alarms in the basement went off that the guard had a clue. By the time he got down here and unlocked the door, it was too late.

keith

Where’s the guard now?

montoya

Sent home on immediate leave of absence…

(approaches, whispers)

He um, arrived while the boy was on fire… still alive. Tyler Harrison.

keith

(stunned, whispers)

The D.A.’s… ?

(Montoya nods before he finishes)

Alright…. give him a few, but then talk to him.

Across from the door, JOJO, carefully picks up a STATUETTE holding a BIDENT… HADES.

CORONERS OFFICE

CLOSE ON CAMI HARRISON’S BLOODSHOT EYES as she views the remains of her charred son.

INT. BATCAVE LATER

BRUCE

(to Alfred)

Take a look at this.

A video plays of a distressed AFRICAN AMERICAN MOTHER.

AFRO-AMERICAN MOM (ON SCREEN)

I know Jamal didn’t do it. They locked up my baby with no proof! They locked up my baby for life. Witch hunt, that’s what this is! Guilty until proven innocent is what that dirty D.A is all about. I hope that bitch burns in hell!

BACK TO

BRUCE

The case was irregular. Conflicting witness accounts of what happened, non-matching descriptions of the assailant… Even the crime scene shoe prints didn’t match. He was put away on a flimsy testimony.

ALFRED

My God.

BRUCE

The rabbit hole goes deeper…

Bruce cycles through case after case onscreen.

BRUCE (CONT’D)

More than twelve hundred cases over a six year span with an eighty seven percent conviction rate.

Bruce hears a THUMP, turns to see Alfred fallen to the floor.

INT. ALFRED’S QUARTERS – SHORTLY AFTER

Alfred lies in bed. Bruce attempts to feed him CREAM OF MUSHROOM soup. His favorite, but Alfred’s not interested.

ALFRED

Come now, Master Bruce, don’t look so glum. All men age. It is the natural order of things.

bruce

I know. I-I’m just not sure what I’ll do if…

ALFRED

(looks at him knowingly)

Find happiness, young man.  Before you become an old regretful soul living alone. You have a choice, Master Bruce. Walk away knowing you have done more for this city than most or face the possibility, that there may be no next time. Even our dear friend Ms. Kyle left this life behind for a fresh start.

(Bruce deflects)

Chasing ghosts is no way to live. We must make the most of our time while we are here… and we are not meant to do it alone.

Bruce understands.

alfred (cont’d)

Happiness is learned.

(smiles kindly)

Now, go. Let me rest… lest I become crestfallen, as well.

Bruce tucks Alfred in, like so many times was done to him. As Alfred sleeps, Bruce lingers, like a dutiful son watching over a father.

INT. WAYNE MANOR – HALL OUTSIDE ALFRED’S QUARTERS – CONTINUOUS

A boy in the dark, scared, alone. Bruce tears up.

EXT. CEMETERY – MORNING

2 DAYS LATER

“PEOPLE LEAVE… BUT THE PAIN NEVER DOES.”

A petrified Bruce, uncovered, stares at Alfred’s coffin. Water beads off him, like a statue.

Mourners flank both sides with umbrellas. Bowed heads, handkerchief’s, etc hide their faces and grief.

A small girl buries her head in her mothers dress.

The PRIEST’S monotone words, muted by unrelenting rain.

“FUNERALS AREN’T FOR THE DEAD… THEY’RE FOR THOSE LEFT BEHIND.”

INT. WAYNE MANOR – HALLWAY – LATE THAT NIGHT

For the first time, Bruce feels truly alone. Wayne Manor, cavernous and hollow. Bruce longs for something familiar to anchor him. He walks the dark halls aimlessly, until he arrives to where he’d often hide as a boy.

INT. ALFRED’S QUARTERS – CONTINUOUS

He enters. Having been a while, it seems like a foreign land.

He opens a WARDROBE ARMOIRE, finds Alfred’s favorite BROWN SWEATER. He holds it to his face, inhales… trying to catch the scent of a ghost.

He stares at a framed picture on Alfred’s writing desk with a quote:

“THE MAN WHO’S LEARNED TO LIVE IN DARKNESS, CEASES TO LOOK FOR LIGHT.”

Beneath it, on the DESK, rests an envelope with his name elegantly written on it in longform.

He approaches, opens it.

ALFRED’S LETTER READS

“I do not want children. For me that is not even a possibility.

That is what I thought for many years. Gotham City was already a treacherous trench of despair, anguish, and injustice. How could one bring a child into a vicious void such as this place? I said that to myself and to others quite often in my early years here. Until your family showed me what was possible when even a little love and light can shine from within a dark place.

You were not supposed to be born. That is what the doctors said when your parents first learned your mother was pregnant. After many tests, and despite warning her that having you would kill her, she did not waiver. Your mother was willing to die to bring you into this world. Your father stood by her. They knew that nothing was more important than you, not even their own lives. They knew you were meant to be here. But you were never meant to be alone.

Once more, I never wanted children. That is what I thought for many years until you needed me. And for the rest of my life, even at the cost of my life… I will serve and protect you. Your family… Your ancestors would be dishonored any other way. And just as strong as the foundation they built that holds up this castle, is my devotion to making sure you honor its namesake – your namesake. You may not feel this way now, or ever, but your ancestors are still with you. Your parents are still with you… For I am with you.

I believe that there are many demented souls that dwell in Gotham City who never had much if any love and light shined upon them the way your family did for this city, and for you. Your future is not certain. But one thing is, you are the future of your family, of your generation, and of your city. For Gotham more than any place needs to know what hope, justice, and grace means again. This will require you to embody just that, especially during the most perilous of times. And to do so will require you to grow beyond what you could possibly imagine yourself to be. You will have to challenge yourself in ways one could not imagine for someone born into such perennial wealth.

It is quite evident to me that you are the one to show Gotham the way out of its own abyss of hopelessness, chaos, and fear… The way your family showed us all how a little love and light shining within a dark place can make the impossible, possible.

You will always be the son of Thomas and Martha Wayne, but you must also become the son of Gotham City. For you my dear Bruce, have become my son as well…

And you always will be.

– Alfred Pennyworth”

BATMAN: KRONOS
CUT TO

EXT. WAYNE MANOR ESTATE GROUNDS – MORNING

A light drizzle coats Bruce as he walks from the manor to the far end of the property. The smell of damp grass comforting him along the way.

He pushes an IRON and GLASS MAUSOLEUM DOOR open, stepping inside.

Bruce approaches a CRYPT. The names THOMAS WAYNE and MARTHA WAYNE are enscribed on them. His gaze, lifeless, beholding what once had breath.

Suddenly, his WRISTCOM vibrates.

HOPE (text)

We haven’t talked in a while. Everything OK?

cut to

HOPE’S HOME

She waits for a reply, that never comes.

INT. GOTHAM MUSEUM OF HISTORY

The WAYNE WING PLAQUE is changed, now reading ALFRED J. PENNYWORTH MEMORIAL WING.

INT. WAYNE MANOR – AFTERNOON

SUPERIMPOSE:

“2 months later”

Hope sits visibly nervous with Bruce in the Great room. Bruce has been here before. His erratic behavior eventually elicits suspicion.

BRUCE

I should have contacted you when Alfred passed.

HOPE

Would have been nice. I would have been there for you.

(insecure)

Bruce, am I doing something wrong?

BRUCE

No.

HOPE

Look, I…

BRUCE

I know what you’re going to say.

HOPE

You do?

BRUCE

It’s about my behavior.

HOPE

Oh, that’s not it…

BRUCE

(not listening)

I know I seem like two people sometimes… and in some ways, I am…

HOPE

(impatient)

Bruce I need to tell you something…

BRUCE

(pensive)

There’s something I need to tell you too. I want to be honest.

hope

Oh God, here it comes. Someone like you, with someone like me… I always knew it was too good to be true.

BRUCE

It’s not like that. It’s… complicated.

HOPE

You’re married?

BRUCE

No!

(sighs)

It’s not a woman.

HOPE

It’s a man? Bruce, I can’t compete with…

BRUCE

No, it’s not… it’s…

HOPE

What then?

(leans in, hopeful)

Babe, you don’t have to hide behind a mask with me.

BRUCE

I’m… I’m…

Bruce suddenly grabs Hope by the arm, leads her to the GRANDFATHER CLOCK, and PULLS a HIDDEN LEVER. It SLIDES aside, revealing a long dark descending staircase. As they descend, Hope begins to worry.

hope

Bruce, where are you taking me?

Bruce doesn’t reply as they continue to descend.

hope (CONT’D)

(with urgency)

Bruce, tell me!

No answer. Finally reaching the bottom, Bruce releases Hope’s hand, leaving her alone in the darkness.

HOPE (CONT’D)

Bruce!

Bright lights flood the space.

BRUCE

(guarded)

Surprise. I’m Batman.

Hope stands awestruck in the BATCAVE.

HOPE

You… you’re…

BRUCE (CONT’D)

Batman.

(uncertain)

Now, what did you want to tell me.

HOPE

I… I’m pregnant.

BATMAN: KRONOS
LATER

Hope sits stunned on a CHAISE, ignoring her CHAMOMILE TEA, probably cold now, listening to Bruce lay it all out.

BRUCE

… So, that’s all of it, pretty much. I know it’s a lot to take in.

HOPE

Now I know what you meant on our first date by it’s complex. I mean, it’s complicated. So, what now?

BRUCE

I don’t know. I’ve never been here before.

HOPE

Me neither.

BRUCE

But you’re the only woman who sees me… all of me. I know that.

HOPE

And you, me. Most my life, I got used to people looking past me, around me, through me… I want be your partner in life, but also, if you ever need…

BRUCE

My partner in crime… fighting?

Hope nods.

Bruce seals the deal with a loving kiss.

MATCH CUT

Same kiss.

PULL BACK

Friends and and family, socializing. The weather is perfect. Everyone seems in great spirits… especially the bride and groom.

INT. WAYNE MANOR – GREAT ROOM – DAY

SERIES OF SCENES

Hope opens curtains wide. She smiles as the warm sunlight shines on her face.

She WASHES windows.

She trims FLOWERS, puts them into a VASE.

She places the vase on a TABLE in the FOYER.

Bruce comes downstairs, finds Hope dusting.

HOPE

I don’t know how Alfred took care of this place… and you!

Bruce smirks, walks over, plants a kiss on her cheek.

BRUCE

I don’t know either. I’m heading to the office to oversee the upgrades. Oh, I got you something.

Grace, excited… until he produces a WRISTCOM. Bruce, proudly attaches it to her wrist.

HOPE

(disappointed)

Gee, thanks Mr. Wayne. Not exactly the jewelry I was hoping for but…

BRUCE

It’ll keep you safe. In an emergency we’ll be able to communicate.

He starts to leave.

HOPE

Honey?

Bruce looks back.

HOPE (CON’TD)

Every time you leave, a hug and kiss, please. You never know the last time you’ll see someone.

Bruce comforts her with a hug and kiss.

HOPE (CONT’D)

Promise me.

BRUCE

(tenderly)

I promise.

Bruce turns to leave.

HOPE

Hun?!

Bruce turns back again. Hope points to a TRASH BAG. He looks at it curiously, grabs it, leaves.

Hope continues dusting.

CLOSE ON

Dusting around PORTRAIT OF ALFRED.

INT. BATCAVE – CONTINUOUS

Bruce crosses the main platform and without breaking stride, hands the TRASH BAG to A.P. A.P. stops working, stares at the bag curiously.

Arriving at a CONSOLE, he enters a CODE. ELEVATOR DOORS open.

The elevator descends to a PLATFORM connecting to a HYPERLOOP.

Bruce boards a CAPSULE-LIKE VEHICLE, entering another CODE on a TOUCHSCREEN. The RAMP activates, doors on the vehicle shut and it begins to move.

The VEHICLE speeds through the tunnel until it arrives to its destination. As soon as the DOORS AUTOMATICALLY OPEN, Bruce steps out.

He passes INTERSECTING NAMES on the WALL… PEARL and PHILLIPS.

BRUCE Rides a PERSONAL ELEVATOR UP. A HOLLOW SHAFT parallels the elevator to the top floor… his PENTHOUSE & EXECUTIVE SUITE.

Bruce exits the ELEVATOR. Behind him, we see the culmination of the parallel shaft. A LONE CHERRY BLOSSOM TREE flowers in a SOLARIUM above it.

MONTAGE – ACROSS GOTHAM

Bruce and Hope spend a day together like a normal couple.


MEDIUM SHOT – CAFE – Bruce and Hope sit at a cozy table, enjoying each others company.


MEDIUM SHOT – INSIDE STORE WINDOW POV


Hope notices a beautiful SPRING DRESS in the display window.


AERIAL SHOT OF GOTHAM CENTRAL PARK


They lounge on grass, welcoming the lazy warm sun. Suddenly…

LOST BOY

(increasing cries)

M-mommy

(sniffles)

Mommy!

Hope goes to the child, crouching to his level. After a moment, she returns with him.

HOPE

Babe, can you watch him a minute while I get help?

BRUCE

Sure.

Hope goes to find assistance. Bruce looks down to the whimpering boy who seems to have stopped crying and now peers up at Bruce. He slowly reaches out his tiny hand.

INSERT

The BOY’S HAND snug inside BRUCE’S.

LATER

Hope returns with a PARK SERVICE BOT and the ANXIOUS but GRATEFUL MOTHER.

EXT. GCPD – DAY

Establishing shot.

INT. GCPD – FRONT ENTRANCE & RECEPTION – DAY

A DISHEVELED CRAZED MAN walks up to the FRONT DESK SERGEANT.

DESK SERGEANT

Can I help you?

DISHEVELED MAN

Yes. I’m KRONOS.

cut to

INTL. GCPD – GORDON’S OFFICE – DAY

SUPERIMPOSE:

“23 HOURS later”


WIGHT

Search of his home and computers turned up media coverage on the case and a cheap renaissance mask… other than that, nothing.

KEITH

I said this ain’t the guy. The real Kronos is still out there! He’s taking a break. The gap in these murders is cause it’s gotten harder for him to get to these kids now that the families are on alert. And now this lunatic comes along, claiming he’s the killer!

GORDON

What do you want me to do?

KEITH

Let me keep working the case.

GORDON

I told you, the D.A. is going forward with the prosecution.

KEITH

This shit is gonna backfire! And when it does, Harrison is gonna have all of these social justice idiots turning their misguided focus on her.

GORDON

It’s out of my hands. Back off Carter, I’m warning you.

KEITH

Or what?

GORDON

Or this department will be forced to take action.

KEITH

For doing my job?!

(incredulous)

You would penalize me for doing my job?

Gordon doesn’t look at him.

keith (cont’d)

Is.. is this cause you’re on your way out or…

gordon

I would advise you to choose your next words very carefully, Lieutenant!

WIGHT

(interjects, to Keith)

Hey, Lieutenant… why don’t we…

There’s an awkward rift for the first time between these men.

KEITH

Ya know, I keep thinking about the third murder. How that little girls life ended. No friends, no family… all alone and how scared she must have felt during her last seconds on Earth.

(suppressed anger)

Sad… we can’t even do our fucking jobs.

On his way out, Keith angrily knocks over a POSTER STAND. It depicts a row of SALUTING SERVICE OFFICERS with the words “DUTY AND HONOR” on it.

WIGHT gestures an apology to Gordon.

INT. KEITH’S CAR – AFTER

Keith, an empty sadness, sits alone.

His MOBILE RINGS. Checks the caller ID… It reads RIPLEY.

KEITH

(answers)

Why you callin when you supposed to be at practice?

ripley

I miss you, daddy… besides, I’m on break.

KEITH

I miss you too, Rip.

ripley

I wanna see you more.

KEITH

Me too, baby. Soon… I promise. This situation, is just for a little while. Hey, I’m gonna see you for summer break and we’re going to take that trip to Six Flags! You excited?

ripley

Yeah… You OK, daddy?

KEITH

(downplays)

What? Yeah, I’m OK. Daddy’s just fine. I’m fine, baby…

ripley

Alright, well I miss you. I gotta get back now.

KEITH

Miss you too. Alright… Hey, you tell Coach Kay I expect to see a banner hanging this year! Go Hawks!

RIPLEY

OK Daddy.

Ripley hangs up. Keith feels even emptier.

GCPD – ROOFTOP – NIGHT

Keith walks across an empty rooftop… until Batman appears behind him.

keith

(startled)

Ah, dammit, man! I hate that shit! Where’s Gordon?

batman

It’s just you and I. You’re right… Kronos isn’t done.

BATMAN shows Keith the WRAITH TATTOO.

KEITH

Military? God damn.

(humbled)

Guess you were right all along. I’m sorry I…

BATMAN

We both want the same thing… Justice.

Keith humbly agrees.

BATMAN (CONT’D)

Give me your mobile.

Keith hands it over, suspiciously. Batman taps his WRISTCOM against it, transferring Keiths contact with a BUZZ.

INT. BATCAVE – DAY

SUPERIMPOSE:

“6 MONTHS LATER”


HOPE

(protruding belly)

Anything new?

BRUCE

It’s getting harder for him now… which works to our advantage. 

(hands her a TECH KEY)

By the way, here. It’s to the vault.

Hope takes the KEY, looks across at the VAULT curiously, before walking over to it.

HOPE reads the VERIFICATION PROCESS, punches in the CODE then places her palm on the SCANNER PANEL.

The VAULT DOORS slide open revealing a fleet of DECOMMISSIONED VEHICLES and other GEAR.

INT. SNELLING SNACKS HQ – CAFETERIA – LATE

A dilapidated room with a long worn rectangular table. GEORGE SNELLING (11), plump, ginger, sits patiently blindfolded at the center of the table. A shrouded figure hovers behind, removes his blindfold.

KRONOS JOURNAL – LOG: JANUARY 13th

KRONOS (VO)

Poor George. The pudgy brat suffered greatly while missing probably the first meals of his life. After seven days of starvation, I offered him a choice…

INSERT

A BOWL OF FRUIT and a BOWL OF SWEETS.

KRONOS (cont’d)

His decision came as no surprise.

GEORGIE reaches for the sweets greedily.

KRONOS (CONT’D)

After all, he is a byproduct of his environment. Gotham, a city starved of sustenance. When finally given an opportunity to heal, chooses the quick fix. It’s always a choice.

FLASHBACK

CLOSE UP of STEEL INJECTOR pushing KCN (potassium cyanide) into cupcakes.

BACK TO

WIDE SHOT – Georgie, lies face down in his cakes, as Kronos walks away in the background.

A statuette of DEMETER stands on the table.

BATMAN: KRONOS
EXT. GOTHAM GENERAL HOSPITAL – MORNING

ESTABLISHING SHOT

Ominous BOILING BLACK CLOUDS unfurl over the horizon.

INT. GOTHAM GENERAL HOSPITAL – ER – CONTINUOUS

STAFF urgently meet Bruce and Hope at the doors and quickly wheel her in. 

INT. GOTHAM GENERAL HOSPITAL – LABOR AND DELIVERY – WAITING ROOM – LATER

Bruce paces nervously as an OLD MAN watches him.

old man

Your first?

BRUCE

Pardon?

OLD MAN

Child.

BRUCE

Oh, yes. That obvious, huh?

OLD MAN

It has a certain behavior, besides storms make people nervous. Sure you don’t want to be in there?

BRUCE

I don’t know…

OLD MAN

Well, it’s not for everyone. Why don’t you sit down?

Bruce smiles, obliges.

OLD MAN (cont’d)

Congratulations.

BRUCE

Thank you.

OLD MAN

Nothing you’ll love more.

BRUCE

I can imagine.

OLD MAN

No, you can’t. You have to experience it… to know.

BRUCE

How many children do you have?

OLD MAN

(proud)

One, a daughter…

(suddenly serious)

… well, had.

Bruce brims with empathy.

OLD MAN (CONT’D)

She was the greatest joy we ever had… was a nurse over at Hera Memorial.

Bruce’s insides detonate. A second blast. Unlike the first, which broke bones, this one breaks his heart.

ext court – late morning

A frustrated Keith exits court, paperwork in hand.

He peers up at a large STATUE OF LADY JUSTICE looming over the steps.

KEITH

That blindfold suits you.

He crumbles the papers, tossing them into a bin, walks off.

INSERT

COURT DOCS laying out visitation rights. It begins to rain.

INT. GOTHAM GENERAL HOSPITAL – LABOR AND DELIVERY – WAITING ROOM – NIGHT

Bruce is awakened by a nurse and howling wind.

nurse

Mr. Wayne, your wife and child are ready to see you.

Bruce looks around. The old man has vanished.

INT. GOTHAM GENERAL HOSPITAL – LABOR AND DELIVERY – CONTINUOUS

Bruce enters, finds Hope holding their crying baby. For the first time in his life, he lays eyes on his own child… A day he never imagined.

HOPE

Hi Daddy. I’m your daughter.

Bruce reaches out slowly, making contact with the child. Grace, in response, wraps her tiny fingers around her father’s digit, falling into a peaceful silence. The sensation is inexplicable.

Just then an OBSTETRICIAN enters.

OBSTETRICIAN

Hi. Congratulations. Um, I just wanted to inform you we’d like to keep mommy and baby for a few nights. There were some minor complications during labor and we just want to make sure everything’s alright.

HOPE

Is there something wrong?

OBSTETRICIAN

Nothing out of the ordinary. It’s just a precaution.

HOPE looks to Bruce for comfort, which he gives.

The BATSIGNAL WRISTCOM NOTIFICATION vibrates. Bruce and Hope look at one another.

BRUCE

(trying to convince himself)

I don’t have to go. The authorities can handle it. Alfred was right… I made Batman my purpose. My only reason for being alive, and it almost cost me my life…

(with conviction)

You and Grace are my purpose now.

Hope’s gaze softens with understanding. She knows the burden her husband carries.

HOPE

Babe, it’s OK. Right now, there other children who need you… Go, and come back, safe.

A different motivation moves him now. Not guilt or vengeance but a greater motivation and purpose… Love.

BRUCE kisses and hugs his wife goodbye.

INT. ARKHAM ASYLUM – JOKERS CELL – NIGHT

Batman taps the TOUCH PAD. The door opens, Joker is waiting patiently inside.

JOKER

Ah, you’re just in time! I’ve composed a poem for our good friend George, titled…

(pauses for dramatic effect)

JOKER (CONT’D)

…POOR GEORGE.

(pause)

JOKER (CONT’D)

Poor plump little George, was hardly fed. When offered a snack, the sweets really went to his head. By the time they arrived, he was no longer deprived, but they literally found him quite dead. Ha, ha… what do ya think?

BATMAN

I don’t like poetry.

JOKER

No one really does but…

BATMAN

I don’t have time for this.

JOKER

(irritated)

How convenient! Since that’s all I have.

The air instantaneously charges with danger. Batman knows to tread lightly. He calmly waits.

A GUARD suddenly appears wheeling in a cart. A PEACE LILY sits atop it. A lone WHITE FLOWER blooms at its center.

Jokers rage from a moment ago, dissipates. He’s both surprised and mesmerized.

BATMAN

One can only play solitaire, in solitude, solo, so many times.

Joker softens, his eyes still fixed on the tiny plant. He gestures a slight acknowledgment Batman’s way and for the first time appears… human.

JOKER

How about that profile now?

BATMAN nods.

INT. GCPD – SIMULTANEOUSLY

GORDON is distracted by the sudden LOUD VOLUME of a MONITOR. He steps out of his office joining OFFICERS who are gathered.

NEWS REPORT (OS)

“… again, “Innocent by Reason of Insanity,” the Joker has been acquitted on all counts. The final verdict in the Joker case, not guilty, in what can only be considered a mishap in the justice…”

GORDON

God save us… the city was almost torn apart before… they might actually finish the job this time.

INT. GOTHAM GENERAL HOSPITAL – SIMULTANEOUSLY

HOPE exits a lavatory. She visits GRACE in the NURSERY, peers through the viewing window.

CLOSE ON – Hope’s eyes searching for her child. Calm at first then, wide as panic sets in.

hope

Nurse? Nurse?!

(The nurse rushes over)

My baby! My baby! I don’t see my baby!

SUDDENLY THE POWER GOES OUT

BACK TO

ARKHAM ASYLUM

A HOLOGRAM beams from Batmans WRISTCOM. It projects an image of the Reaper and Globe tattoo.

JOKER

Hmm, that explains why he can slip in and out undetected.

BATMAN

So who’s his next target?

JOKER


Well, that’s easy. Who fits the Zeus archetype…

BATMANS WRISTCOM receives a notification. It’s HOPE. The TEXT READS…

“GRACE GONE! POWER OUT!”

On cue, the power goes off. Then generators kick in. An eerie pale blue light is cast on Joker. He recognizes something big is about to happen, a slight tug to one corner of his mouth.

BATMAN

An EMP?

CUT TO

GOTHAM CITY – Blackout, except a few scattered pockets.

WAYNE TOWER – Dim Auxiliary lights, surrounded by darkness.

BACK TO ARKHAM

YELLS and SCREAMS are heard deep in the complex.

JOKER

It appears, the inmates have taken over the asylum!

BATMAN goes to the door, taps the TOUCH PAD but it doesn’t respond.

JOKER (CONT’D)

What are you doing? Don’t open that door, you’ll let the lunatics in! This is probably the safest place in Gotham… Well, aside from Wayne Tower…

(mockingly)

with all its fancy upgrades.

BATMAN turns to Joker, stupefied. It finally dawns on him… who the next target is.

BATMAN quickly engages his GAUNTLET’S LASER burning through the lock, then races out.

JOKER

Was it something I said?

BATMAN: KRONOS
INT. ARKHAM – CORRIDOR – CONTINUOUS

BATMAN runs down the endless corridor, arriving at the LARGE RED STEEL DOUBLE DOORS. They’re slightly ajar, with a few inmates lingering.

They attack, but he makes quick work of them.

He taps his WRISTCOM.

BACK TO

GOTHAM GENERAL HOSPITAL

HOPE searches for Grace when her WRISTCOM vibrates.

HOPE

(frightened)

Bruce?!

BATMAN

I’m here! Are you OK?!

HOPE

Yeah, I think so… yes.

BATMAN

Listen! The hospital has a basement, take the stairs! When you’re down there, look for a steel door that doesn’t go with the building. It’s an old sub stairwell. Take it all the way down, then follow the left hand wall until it forks, then cross to the other side. There’s a touch panel. Enter this code!

Her WRISTCOM receives a code.

batman (cont’d)

I’ll send you a ride. It’ll take you home!

HOPE

I’m not leaving without Grace! But I don’t know where she is…

BATMAN

I do! I’ll bring her home.

(assuring)

I promise.

HOPE

(crying now)

OK…

BATMAN

Honey… I love you.

HOPE

I love you too, Bruce!

BATMAN

Now go!

Bruce disconnects.

PULL BACK WIDE

BATMAN crosses the threshold, standing between the “TEETH” of the RED DOORS. The entire ARKHAM POPULATION, loose, rampages in the background.

BACK TO

GOTHAM GENERAL HOSPITAL

Hope moves quickly. As she passes the nursery, she sees a group of nurses struggling.

HOPE

(approaching them)

How can I can help?

A FILIPINO NURSE instructs Hope.

Filipino nurse

The babies need to be ventilated…

Hope watches as the Nurse attaches handbags to breathing tubes, then demonstrates.

FILIPINO NURSE (cont’d)

Squeeze the bag at this rate, it delivers oxygen and simulates breathing.

Hope takes two bags, emulates.

FILIPINO NURSE (CONT’D)

(reassuring)

That’s good.

The two women stand across from one another, bags in each hand, keeping the babies alive.

CLOSE ON

HOPES FACE, tears well up. She can’t help her own child, but she can help others.

CUT TO – JOKERS CELL

Lesser INMATES surround the glass, cult-like, mesmerized by the Clown Prince of Crime.

CLOSE ON

Joker peering out at them with a grin.

CUT TO

CLOSE ON – BATMAN’S PAINED FACE.

As he’s mobbed, several inmates hang off him.

ARNOLD WESKER, The VENTRILOQUIST, sits on an upper deck watching, petrified, as SCARFACE enjoys the show.

BATMAN fights his way through the general population until…

HARVEY “TWO FACE” DENT stands in Batman’s path.

two face

Well, well… if it isn’t my old friend.

BATMAN

Harvey, I don’t want hurt you.

two face

The way I see it, there’s no two ways about it… You’re not getting outta here alive!

cut to

GCPD – PITCH BLACK

GORDON tries to reach BATMAN, to no avail.

LEE

Damm, there’s no power!

GORDON

What about the generators?

LEE

They’re out too!

GORDON

How’s that possible?

A HARD BANG at the precinct doors steals attention. Through window silhouettes, shapes of ANGRY CITIZENS can be made out.

BACK TO

ARKHAM ASYLUM

Batman stares down Two Face, flanked by ten inmates.

two face

Got no coin to flip. Any spare change?

BATMAN

Just this.

Batman sends a Batarang at Two Face knocking him and the other inmates out. He catches it, upon its return.

BATMAN: KRONOS
arkham grounds OUTSIDE

SEARCH SPOTLIGHTS

A bloodied BATMAN in DAMAGED BATSUIT, weathers the storm while racing across the grounds. Arkham SECURITY fight to keep inmates from escaping the perimeter.

mouth of forest NEAR ARKHAM

Batman boards the AV-11.

In the CARGO BAY, he lays eyes on THE PROTOTYPE.

The AV-11 lifts off.

CLOSE ON – COCKPIT – BATMAN’S DETERMINED EYES

CUT TO

Keith receives a notification on his old school device. It reads:

“WAYNE TOWER… #6!”

BACK TO

GOTHAM GENERAL HOSPITAL

A few GENERATORS finally kick in.

male nurse

Oh, thank God! Not full power, but it’s enough.

A few NURSES scramble to connect MECHANICAL VENTILATORS to the babies.

FILIPINO NURSE

(grateful smile)

Thanks for your help. We got it now.

She gives Hope a hug, who welcomes it.

MOMENTS LATER

HOPE takes the stairs to the basement, which still has no power. Using the WRISTCOM FLASHLIGHT, she locates the UNIQUE METAL DOOR. It hosts a RUSTY PADLOCK.

She grabs a METAL FOLDING CHAIR, smacks the lock a few times till it breaks.

METRO TUNNEL

She hugs the left wall until a FORK, then crosses to the other side.

Seeing the TOUCH PANEL, she enters her WRISTCOM CODE. A STEEL PANEL SLIDES OPEN revealing a more modern tunnel. As soon as she steps in, it CLOSES behind her.

HOPE waits at a platform. BRIGHT LIGHTS flash from far down the tunnel. A TUBULAR VEHICLE arrives, the DOOR opening automatically.

ROBOTIC VOICE

Welcome Mrs. Wayne. Please board so we may leave promptly.

She does.

HOPE

Do I know you?

robotic voice (VO)

It’s A.P.

HOPE

Oh! I didn’t know you had a voice.

A.p. (ROBOTIC VOICE)

I didn’t…

The VEHICLE DOORS CLOSE.

a.p. (CONT’D)

Master Wayne gave me one this morning. Here, let me slip into something…

(switching voices)

… more comfortable, for the remainder of the trip.

HOPE

Alfred!

alfred (VO)

Off we go!

The VEHICLE takes off.

EXT. WAYNE TOWER – CONTINUOUS

WAYNE TOWER glows against an unlit city, like a star inside the mouth of a black hole.

The AV-11 quickly approaches.

CUT TO

ROOFTOP

LIGHTNING CRACKLES as ZEUS almighty, thunders his disapproval.

Darkness against white flashes are the only light source.

Sheets of water cascade off GARGOYLES perched on a ledge above, as they silently stand watch.

BATMAN: KRONOS
KRONOS stands, impervious to the weather.

Suddenly, one of the stone guardians springs to life. The long DARK FIGURE rises sharply against the backdrop of a burst of white, casting a shadow. Kronos turns to meet it, his VIBRO-SICKLE humming.

BATMAN leaps at his foe, but Kronos is ready. He takes the Dark Knight in mid air and tosses him to the floor. Batman converts his momentum into a roll, springing up.

KRONOS

How poetic… A Dark Knight on a dark night.

BATMAN

That’s something the Joker would say. I figured you two were connected.

KRONOS

Haven’t had the pleasure of meeting the man. But I admire his work… As you can see…

Kronos gestures to a CLUBHOUSE STEALTH TOWER at the center of the rooftop. Even though he can’t see Grace, her cries are faintly audible through the storm via ECHO LOCATION on Batman’s HELM.

KRONOS (CONT’D)

Now, I’m going to finish what he couldn’t.

Emotionally charged, The Dark Knight attacks.

SERIES OF SHOTS – BLACK & WHITE STROBE EFFECT

Batman’s fist connects with Kronos’ head.

LIGHTNING INSERT

Kronos hits back, harder.

LIGHTNING INSERT

Batman knees Kronos.

LIGHTNING INSERT

Kronos swings his VIBRO-SICKLE overhead but Batman’s NANO-CAPE instantly hardens, acting as a shield, deflecting the blow.

Kronos quickly slides inside Batmans’ guard and grabs him by the throat.

KRONOS

You’re too old… too weak. You couldn’t stop the Joker and you can’t stop me. Maybe after I’ve killed you… I’ll become the Batman.

BATMAN

(choking)

You’re boring to listen to.

Batman FLAPS his CAPE WINGS as they smack against Kronos head, freeing Batman.

KRONOS stumbles back, disoriented.

He ACTIVATES his CLOAKING DEVICE. Batman matches it.

The duo battle invisibly.

LIGHTNING STRIKES THE GROUND BETWEEN THEM

In the middle of battle, the BATSUIT starts to MALFUNCTION, visibly exposing the Dark Knight.

Kronos takes advantage. He rips through Batman’s shoulder armor with his VIBRO SICKLE.

He PUMMELS Batman, KNOCKING him to the ground.

Still cloaked, he circles The Dark Knight, HITTING him, repeatedly. Batman can’t defend against what he can’t see.

Meanwhile, the rooftop door pushes slightly ajar.

Lt. Carter tries to clear the obstruction, but it’s jammed. He begins to squeeze through the open upper portion.

BACK TO ACTION

KRONOS

It was clear to me what the Joker had intended. The elite don’t care. If you want change you must evoke something radical. These people, they have too much wealth… too much power! To get their attention, you must take away the thing they care about most…

BATMAN

(repulsed, struggling)

You son of a bitch…. Their children!

KRONOS

(correcting him)

Their legacy! You surprise me, Batman… you should know better than to give these people morals.

(pause)

I’ll bring Gotham to its knees and then my mission will be complete. After tonight, I’ll be remembered for changing this city… forever.

Suddenly, a LIGHTNING SPEAR STRIKES a Gargoyle, cracking its singular HORN. It FALLS to the rooftop near Kronos, who decloaks.

INSERT

Kronos’ hand picks up the CRACKED HORN.

Kronos pins Batman with his foot.

CLOSE ON

BATMAN’S FACE, sucking in air, defeated, blood slowly mixing in puddles as crackles of lightning blind him.

KRONOS (CONT’D)

(above batman)

The Gods have spoken… time to die.

Kronos SMASHES the HORN down on Batman’s head.

INSIDE POV – HELM LENSES

The HORN SMASHES into helm as its SOFTWARE GLITCHES. OPTICAL LENSES CRACK, then go DARK.

Batman, blind as a bat, unsuccessfully tries to deflect the repeated blows.

BACK TO

Keith finally squeezes through the opening, nearing the combatants, keeping a safe distance.

KEITH

(pulls service weapon)

Put the weapon down! You’re under arrest!

KRONOS halts his assault, but doesn’t comply.

KEITH (CONT’D)

I won’t tell you twice. Put down the…

In an eye blink, he hurls the jagged horn at the Lieutenant. It strikes, ripping through his shoulder.

KEITH (CONT’D)

Arrgghhhh!

He crumples over in agony.

A distraction, barely enough for Batman to use his last option. He blindly taps his left gauntlet, prays.

The BLADE EXTENDS!

PULL BACK

It STABS beneath Kronos’s collarbone, puncturing through the other side, impaling him.

KRONOS

(in anguish)

Arrrggghhh!

Blood slowly runs down the blade.

Thunder tears the heavens, as an exclamation. Then, as if Zeus had witnessed enough, LIGHTNING races down, STRIKING the protruding blade, sending a SURGE through it.

The pair absorb the shock… but only one is electrocuted.

Batman RETRACTS the BLADE, letting Kronos fall to one side. The pair precariously close to the ledge.

BACK TO

Keith, clumsily fumbles for his recorder.

INSERT

Keith’s FINGER PUSHES a BUTTON. It FAINTLY POWERS ON. He hits record, points it to the action.

BACK TO

BATMAN

You may be stronger… But I’m insulated.

BATMAN mounts the immobilized killer.

BATMAN (CONT’D)

You’re not a victim cause you were dealt a bad hand.

(punch)

We always have a choice.

(punch)

You chose to kill! That makes you a coward!

(punch)

And after tonight, no one will remember you.

Batman drags Kronos to the ledge. Gripping his collar, their masks are now face to face.

KRONOS

But… (cough).. they’ll remember you.

KRONOS reveals a REVERSE DEAD MANS SWITCH.

Batman freezes. 11/12 flashes back as his heart thumps loudly.

KRONOS (cont’d)

Like before… (coughing blood)… show mercy… and a child dies.

(mocking)

We always… have a choice.

LIGHTNING RIPS across the sky, as a BOLT nearly STRIKES the STEALTH TOWER. Zeus’ anger mirrors the Dark Knight’s rage. Inside, both Father and Hero are torn.

Batman, hunched like a salivating demon, grips Kronos’ throat tightly.

GROTESQUES surround the men, as witnesses gathered for final judgment.

BATMAN

(hands trembling)

C-can’t kill…

(tearing up)

…my child!

CLOSE UP

KRONOS eyes widen as he realizes who Batman is.

KRONOS

You… Aha, ha… Bruce Way…

Batman squeezes. NECK BONES SNAP as LIGHTNING RIPS OPEN the sky.

INSERT

Kronos’ hands fall, lifeless.

As Zeus had slain his father, avenging his siblings… Batman exacts justice for the murdered children.

PULL BACK

Keith, joined by GCPD OFFICERS who’ve just arrived. They collectively push past the barricaded door to find The Bat savagely clutching its dead prey.

OFFICER #1

Police, put your hands up!

Batman looks to the stealth tower, then back to the officers with their weapons locked on him.

OFFICER #1 (cont’D)

I said put your hands…

Batman drops Kronos’ limp body, dashes toward the roof ledge.

THE OFFICERS open FIRE. A BULLET hits Batman’s exposed shoulder as he LEAPS over the edge.

INSERT

Keith and the officers approach GRACE.

She’s in a DOLLS DRESS, crying, but otherwise safe. RED LIPSTICK streaked across her mouth, forming a wicked grin.

BATMAN: KRONOS
around gotham – THAT MORNING – montage

ARKHAM – THE STAFF have regained control of its population.

THE CITY – Power starts being restored.

BUSINESSES reopen as WORKBOTS clean up roads and public spaces.

GCPD CENTRAL – I.A. storms in, rounds up corrupt officers, including “ROCK” LEE and a few of his men.

THE FBI interrupt MR. FINKLE during a public address as he’s indicted on a public health crisis cover up involving Gotham Waterworks.

THE MAYOR is hounded by media on federal charges of voter fraud, misappropriation of funds and other allegations.

Inside her home, CAMI HARRISON, hides from REPORTERS on her lawn, regarding allegations.

KEITH sits in his office, replaying the video from his recording during the rooftop battle. The audio is poor, but after a few attempts of boosting the sound through the noise of the storm, he hears…

KRONOS (vo)

“You… Aha, ha… Bruce Way…”

Keith’s eyes enlarge as he learns Batman’s identity. He notices someone behind him.

GORDON

Nice job.

KEITH

(concealing recorder)

Hey… thanks. You too.

GORDON

Some secrets are hard to live with… I would know.

Keith realizes Gordon saw the video.

GORDON (cont’d)

Do the right thing.

Keith looks down at the evidence. He pops out the V Card, hands it over.

Keith and Gordon share a mutual acknowledgment, then… Gordon drops the V Card to the floor. He SMASHES it under the CRUNCH of his heel.

KEITH

What…?

GORDON

Sometimes doing the right thing, isn’t the right thing to do. Take care, Lieutenant.

INSERT

GCPD MOST WANTED LIST – BATMAN’S IMAGE APPEARS on all DEPARTMENT DEVICES.

IT READS “PUBLIC ENEMY #1.”

INT. BATCAVE – AFTERNOON

Bruce, bruised, worn, has the bullet removed from his shoulder by A.P.

“TO BE REBORN… “

Bruce lays the Batsuit on the incinerator tray, rolls it in, presses a button.

Fire begins to consume the suit. The rising flames illuminating Bruce’s face.

“… THE HERO MUST DIE. SOMETIMES, IT’S THE ONLY CHOICE.”

MONTAGE – WAYNE MANOR

GREAT ROOM

FIREPLACE MANTLE.

A FRAMED PICTURE of THOMAS & MARTHA WAYNE with YOUNG BRUCE. Situated next to it, a similar PICTURE of BRUCE, HOPE and BABY GRACE in the hospital. A third, of ALFRED.

WAYNE MANOR DOORSTEP

Keith, a sling over his arm, along with GCPD officers and a few hospital staff, deliver Grace. HOPE and Bruce embrace their daughter as a nurse hands her over.

A PUPPY, the collar reading “JUSTICE”, YIPS and WAGS it’s tail as it peeks shyly from the door.

HOPE

Thank you, Lieutenant. You’re a true hero.

KEITH

(eyes Bruce)

Well, it wasn’t only me.

He pats Bruce’s INJURED SHOULDER, who winces. They exchange knowing looks.

WAYNE MANOR CLIFFSIDE

Bruce and Hope hold Grace lovingly between them.

REVERSE BACKSIDE SHOT

Their bodies, along with the sunset rays, form a heart silhouette.

It’s not only a new day, but a new life… one without Batman.

INT. ARKHAM ASYLUM – JOKERS CELL

JOKER stands motionless, then slowly backs into the shadows. His large Cheshire grin still visible in the darkness.

FADE TO BLACK

joker (vo)

(echoing)

Ha, ha, ha…

THE END