Rachel

Bruce couldn't quite fathom Jack's circuitous path to request funds.

However, he opted not to pry further.

After all, problems solvable with money weren't really problems for him.

Money, in his world, seemed to grow almost wantonly, at a pace far surpassing even his generous squandering habits.

"Okay," Bruce agreed with a nod.

"Very good," Jack acknowledged. "As a friendly heads-up, your girlfriend, District Attorney Rachel Dawes, might encounter some minor troubles soon."

"What?" Bruce was taken aback, noticing Jack's lack of correction in referring to Rachel as his girlfriend.

"She aimed to prosecute Falconi's men but was rescued by Dr. Klein of Arkham. According to intel, Falconi might have his sights on her. Of course, this was based on prior information and deductions. Someone like Rachel is hard to bribe, so naturally, there's only one other way to fully resolve the issue."

Bruce stood up abruptly, ready to leave.

"One more thing," Jack added. "If you intend to be with Miss Rachel, perhaps I can offer some suggestions. Honestly, I think someone more compatible with you is Rachel's friend, Reese. They share similar personalities. Though Rachel has other boyfriends, well... isn't that a thing of the past?"

In the original narrative, Bruce posed as a playboy to conceal his identity, intentionally wasting money on picking up girls. This led to a strained relationship with Rachel, who was successfully deceived.

Bruce couldn't express the pain he felt. Despite being surrounded by beautiful women, Rachel was the one he loved the most.

In Batman II, the blow of Rachel's death and the subsequent growth it induced were unimaginable for Bruce.

Yet, everything was just beginning. The Joker lurked in some undisclosed corner, and Bruce hadn't even transformed into Batman to embark on official action.

In Jack's eyes, the current Bruce was just a young man—a fact that allowed Jack to effortlessly analyze Bruce's thoughts through expressions and words.

Bruce interrupted. "I prefer relying on myself."

"Don't worry; it's a free suggestion," Jack reassured. "Won't hurt to hear it out, right?"

"Then, no. I don't want free things" Bruce lost interest upon hearing that no money was involved.

Jack: "???"

.....

Jack decided not to press Bruce on learning his movement skills, considering the challenges of their risky endeavors. Wondering if Bruce might succeed, Jack acknowledged the slim possibility, considering the dangers of their actions. The specter of Bruce hiding his plans from Rachel, coupled with the potential use of the playboy disguise, left Jack skeptical about a different outcome.

Determined to move forward, Jack headed to the police station and sought out Gordon, who was surprised to see him on a Saturday.

Jack disclosed that Bruce Wayne was now part of their unconventional alliance, though he wouldn't come forward openly. Intriguingly, Jack shared Bruce's secret: a penchant for disguising himself. Gordon, baffled, questioned the connection.

Jack explained Bruce's desire to be a hero and change Gotham's status quo, linking it to his unique dressing habits. Gordon, now enlightened, realized the significance.

Jack emphasized the need for discretion, hinting at Bruce's future appearances in an all-black outfit resembling a bat. He encouraged Gordon to collaborate with Bruce, envisioning the latter's assistance when Gordon assumed the position of Gotham City Police Chief.

Gordon, caught off guard by the mention of his potential future role, expressed reluctance. Jack reassured him that their actions would remain legal, aiming to channel criminals into the justice system without causing undue police trouble.

Despite the assurances, Gordon hesitated, questioning Jack's capacity to execute the plan as well. The unfolding collaboration presented challenges, leaving both men with uncertainties about the path ahead.

Jack's words hung in the air, creating an awkward silence that left Gordon grappling for a response.

Leaning back in his chair, Gordon mustered the courage to voice his concerns. "I have another question," he began, choosing his words carefully, "Are you confident in his ability to protect himself? I mean, being a billionaire is one thing, but being a superhero requires a different set of skills."

A flicker of amusement danced in Jack's eyes as he reassured Gordon, "On this point, you don't need to worry. He's no ordinary billionaire; he possesses superpowers."

Gordon's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Superpowers?"

Jack nodded knowingly. "His superpower is the ability to make money. Trust me, with enough wealth, he can rival even Tony Stark. And that 'yes' you mentioned... well, let's just say, you haven't seen the extent of my capabilities."

Gordon, still processing this revelation, cautiously inquired, "...Are there many people like you?"

Jack chuckled, giving Gordon a friendly pat on the shoulder. "Very few. Don't worry. If there were more, the government would have discovered them by now, and they certainly wouldn't be living under the radar."

.....

In the bustling court, Rachel diligently sorted through documents detailing yesterday's criminal activities. The original plan was to send the offender to prison, but Klein, the director of Arkham Mental Hospital, intervened, deeming the person mentally ill. Consequently, the jail sentence was overturned, and the individual was redirected to Arkham for what was euphemistically termed "treatment."

A wry smile played on Rachel's lips as she muttered, "Treatment, huh? I doubt anyone enjoys it there." She then picked up another document, shifting her focus to information about Haldar. Falconi had tasked Fras with arresting him at Jack's behest, and now, preparations were underway for the trial in two days.

....

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