Chapter 1

There was an unusual calmness in the air that night as she walked home from a hard day's work. In Gotham City, things hardly are ever quiet. Especially lately.....she had plenty of things on her mind. Her work, taking care of her grandmother, being engaged. She had a lot to worry about. She didn't even notice the laughter starting to build from the dark alleys behind her and up ahead. She stepped on a large crack in the sidewalk when suddenly a wire had tightened within the crack and caused her to fall.

Then the laughter exploded.

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

"Step on a crack and break your own back!" J-man said. His gang chuckled, partially at the joke and also at the woman.

"Oh great, a horrible end to an almost perfect day." she moaned.

"You said it, lady, not us." J-man replied.

Then he grinned and tilted his head to the side, motioning for the others to rob her. One of them managed to grab a hold of her purse. The others started to taunt her, pulling her hair, pushing her around....little things to keep her occupied while a Jokerz rummaged through her purse.

"J-man, there's only 50 creds in here."

"What? Are you joking??? Man, robbery is quickly becoming a waste of time. Get rid of her."

The gang smiled and dragged her to a nearby dumpster.

"Time to take out the trash."

"I couldn't agree more," said Batman.

He leaped off the rooftop and glided towards them. They took out some guns and started shooting at Batman. A batarang here, a punch there, and soon all but two of the gang were down. The Jokerz holding the purse and J-man.

"Well, a horrible ending to an almost perfect day!" J-man said.

Then suddenly someone came up from behind them and bashed their heads together and they slumped to the ground.

"You said it J-man, not me." the lady replied as she brushed herself off.

"Nice move. Next time try not to be the hero though. You could really get hurt," said Batman.

"I'm sorry, but I didn't want you to have all of the fun," she replied.

"I believe this is yours."

"Thanks."

"You're welcome. By the way, where did you learn to do that?"

"My grandmother. Oh no! I'm late for an appointment! Thanks again......Batman?" she said turning around, but he was gone.