but the word on the street was he had eventually found it.

The DA’s office was on high alert, and Batman, it seemed, was even more so.

“It appears… it appears Batman is already on the scene.”

We'll continue to bring you updates as they become available—”

A shadow detached itself from the storm clouds, a winged silhouette descending directly into the maw of the asylum. She could feel the collective gasp of the officers and onlookers around her instinctively raising their eyes.

~

“The details are still emerging, but preliminary assessments suggest a significant degree of pre-planning. The public is being urged to exercise extreme caution. Nygma should be considered armed and dangerous, with a disregard for human life. ~

“We have breaking news tonight,” she announced into the biting wind. “I'm here outside Arkham Asylum, where, according to GCPD officials, Edward Nygma, better known as The Riddler, escaped just hours ago.” She glanced down at her notes, then back to the camera. ~

From under the hood of his waterproof jacket, the cameraman gave a nod.

“Alright, let’s do this.” She smoothed down the hair plastered to her face, adjusted her lapel microphone, and focused on the camera lens. The red recording light blinked steadily. ~

Flashing blue and red lights pulsed across its facade, painting chaotic streaks of color onto the downpour.

“Honestly,” she muttered, more to herself than anyone else, and tightened her grip on the umbrella, “as if it couldn't get any worse.”

~

I have witnessed their capacity for courage, and though we are worlds apart, like us, there's more to them than meets the eye.

I am Batman, and I send this message to any surviving heroes taking refuge among the streets.

We are here. We are waiting.