As a seasoned butler with years of service to the Wayne family, I have witnessed the transformation of young Bruce into the vigilante known as Batman. I have seen the pain etched upon his face and heard the weight in his voice when he speaks of his parents’ death and the darkness that has consumed Gotham City.
Enthusiasts can soon step back into the realm of Tim Burton’s memorable 1989 Batman movie. Across various incarnations and interpretations of Batman in cinema throughout the years, it is often Tim Burton’s vision that resonates most strongly with fans. This classic film featured Michael Keaton portraying both Bruce Wayne and Batman, while Jack Nicholson brought the Joker to life. The movie not only refreshed the Dark Knight for a broader audience but also laid the foundation for subsequent DC films. An upcoming novel titled Batman: Resurrection, authored by renowned writer John Jackson Miller, continues the narrative from Burton’s film, and we have an exclusive sneak peek at its contents.
In this article, we are privileged to share an exclusive sneak peek from John Jackson Miller’s upcoming duology titled “Batman: Resurrection“, due for release on October 15th by Random House Worlds. Following The Joker’s demise, Batman and Gotham City are under siege by a puzzling new danger that only the Dark Knight can counteract. Today, we present an excerpt showcasing Batman grappling with doubts as he recalls the night he clashed with The Joker atop Gotham’s cathedral. In these dreams, Batman encounters not just The Joker, but also Alfred, Vicki Vale, and his late parents, Thomas and Martha Wayne.
What is Batman: Resurrection about?
Although the Joker has met his end, he remains etched in memory. Gotham City may have been rescued, but it continues to harbor danger. By night, Batman stands as a beacon of hope, tirelessly working to safeguard the vulnerable and the oppressed. In contrast, during daylight hours, Bruce Wayne ponders if there’ll come a time when he won’t need to patrol Gotham’s rooftops or walk the grand halls of his mansion with the ever-loyal Alfred Pennyworth by his side.
Despite the Clown Prince of Crime no longer being alive, his influence lingers beyond mere street markings. Remnants of the Joker’s gang are instigating a series of arson attacks that endanger the city, while they capitalize on his enigmatic allure. This is not without the involvement of Max Shreck, a wealthy opportunist who stands to gain from these events. Meanwhile, those affected by The Joker’s chemical weapon, Smylex, continue to flood Gotham City’s main hospital, still struggling with its effects.
To bring order out of the disorder, Batman requires more than just his iconic cape and versatile Utility Belt. With Bruce Wayne thrust into action, he teams up with an engaging scientist to tackle a widespread health predicament. However, his work in both secretive and open roles draws him further into Gotham City’s chaos than ever before, intensifying his longstanding desire to protect the city – a passion that has strained his relationship with Vicki Vale. Loyal Alfred, who had anticipated Batman might provide some closure for Bruce, instead witnesses the opposite unfolding. Recurring nightmares lead Bruce to ponder fresh queries about the dramatic happenings in the cathedral, while Commissioner Gordon’s and reporter Alexander Knox’s probes into the arsons only heighten his apprehensions.
After assuring the citizens of Gotham City they were due a break from criminal activities, Batman discovers that the evil forces are becoming increasingly coordinated and orchestrated by an enigmatic force lurking in the shadows. The legendary detective must unravel the biggest mystery yet: Is it possible that The Joker has miraculously survived? Could he still be planning to mock the people of Gotham City once more?
The exclusive excerpt from Batman: Resurrection can be found below, along with a look at the back cover.
With doubt lingering over Batman, and turmoil persisting throughout Gotham City, Batman finds himself questioning every moment from the night he encountered The Joker on the city’s cathedral rooftop.
The cathedral, again.
In this instance, Batman recognized that it was a dream; however, it unfolded just as he recalled. Jack Napier accused Batman of being responsible for The Joker’s creation, and Batman retaliated by hitting him in the abdomen and pushing him through a decaying wall.
It was just as satisfying as it had been in real life.
Batman stalked his nemesis through the darkness. “You killed my parents.”
“What?” The Joker turned his head to spit blood. “What are you talking about?”
“I made you? You made me first.”
In a rapid succession of words, the Joker said, “Listen here, Gotham Guardian – it was during my childhood that I took away your family. You could argue that by creating such an individual as me, I was also created by you. Can’t you see how immature this all is?
With no more room for maneuver, the Joker decided to don a pair of spectacles – his final act. Batman foresaw what was imminent, but surprisingly, he halted. “Hold on,” he said.
What is it?” The Joker squinted. “Ah, you need to use the restroom? Feel free to do so right here, in your suit. After all, I often do the same. No one pays much attention.
Batman pointed at him. “You said you were a kid when you killed my parents.”
“Proof that even pointy ears work.”
“But why did you say it? You don’t know who my parents were.”
The Joker shrugged. “I just assumed. You said I made you first.”
Well, indeed. However, I’ve just started my journey as Batman. It seems strange to you that I might be referring to those who passed away long ago? Could it be that you are aware of my true identity?” He fixed a gaze on The Joker. “Perhaps you know more about me than you let on?
Motion, to the side. The Joker looked to the left and saw Vicki Vale cringing behind a column.
“Hey, Vick, do you believe this guy? Stopping a fight to play Twenty Questions.”
“What are you waiting for?” Vicki said to Batman. “Hit him, again!”
As a seasoned detective, I have encountered numerous unexpected twists and turns during my investigations. However, this particular situation left me utterly astonished. A thought suddenly crossed Batman’s mind – one that had never occurred to him before. Intrigued, he confronted the person in question. “Did you reveal my identity to him?” he asked, his voice heavy with curiosity and a hint of apprehension. Despite his vast experience, even I find myself taken aback by the unpredictable nature of life.
“Absolutely not!” Stepping beside The Joker without fear, she said, “I wouldn’t betray him; he’s mad as a hatter.” Glancing at Batman, she added, “To be fair, you both are quite mad in your own ways. But you’re more attractive and have a limousine and a butler.
A dignified voice came from the darkness. “You called, madam?”
Batman stared in amazement as Alfred stepped into the light.
The Joker gawked. “Who are you? The old man of the tower?”
“I am the gentleman’s gentleman, sir.” Alfred produced a tray from behind his back. “Martinis?”
With a mischievous grin, the Joker said, “Why not join me?” He then picked up a glass, and unexpectedly, so did Vicki. This left Batman taken aback.
Batman moved to confront Alfred. “Did you tell him who I am?”
The butler’s eyes widened. “Sir! I would never–“
Batman gestured towards Vicki, “Would it be unimaginable for you to allow her access to the Batcave?” Then he nudged Alfred sternly. “I suspect The Joker has been informed. I need to confirm whether you’ve shared this secret with him.
Alfred scowled. “I won’t be spoken to in this manner.”
“You’re not my father.”
Instead of saying, “No?”, perhaps it could be rephrased as, “Didn’t he?” or simply, “He didn’t,” to maintain a natural and easy-to-read flow.
“Alfred!” Batman grabbed the butler’s shoulders in concern.
The elderly gentleman bent over with discomfort, his gray locks cascading onto the bell tower floor in handfuls. Upon raising his gaze, a new growth of black hair covered where it had fallen out, and the face of Alfred was transformed into that of someone else.
Batman’s jaw dropped. “Father!”
The face of Thomas Wayne glared at him. “Release me!”
“Yes, sir.” Batman took a step back.
“I’m very disappointed in you, son.”
The voice–exactly as he’d remembered it. “Father, I’m sorry. But how–“
In a surprising turn of events, Batman sought comfort from Vicki, but instead found her bent over, hands and knees on the ground, her stunning face contorting in distress. She tore out her hair and let out a blood-curdling scream as her skin metamorphosed into an entirely new form. When she gazed back at Batman, it was with the eyes that belonged to his mother.
Standing up, Martha Wayne’s look-alike remarked, ‘It seems as though you’re trying to dress like that.’ Mister Napier was correct; your behavior appears quite juvenile.
Batman stood transfixed.
Young man, please join us,” said the one who might be his father, gripping him by the arm. His mother claimed his other hand. Batman resisted the urge to escape, but as he struggled, they didn’t just tighten their grip—they seemed to grow taller, their forms becoming flexible and elongating. They resembled monstrous wax figures, their faces being the only human trait.
They guided him towards the spot where The Joker was standing, overlooking Gotham City from a balcony. The fiendish character flashed a grin and said, “Aren’t family gatherings delightful?” in a rather chilling tone.
With his parents holding him close against the exterior wall, Batman cast a glance towards them and then to The Joker. “Come on, Jack! Have you discovered my true identity?
“I’m not telling. Not now.” The Joker strolled over and plucked his hat from where it sat on a gargoyle’s wing. “Dead men tell no tales.”
“And you’re dead.”
Are you completely certain about that?” As the Joker tossed his hat over the edge, a hand from below swiftly grabbed it before it could hit the ground.
Surprised, Batman peered curiously. Was that someone else lurking beyond, on the ledge? He managed to break free from the monstrous figures and turned to investigate. However, before he could catch a glimpse, a pair of strong hands seized him and pulled him off balance.
Previously, similar events had transpired. However, on this occasion, there was neither a place to hold on nor any useful gadget at hand. It appeared as if he plummeted endlessly…
Bruce Wayne crashed onto the floor of the Batcave.
Disoriented, he fumbled about. He’d fallen off his chair. He heard footsteps on the stairs.
“Are you all right, sir?” Alfred asked. He set down the tray he was carrying and offered his hand.
“Appreciated,” Bruce managed to rise with the aid of his butler, woozy from sleep. “I must have nodded off.” He blinked rapidly, attempting to regain his bearings. “It seems I had yet another dream.
Oh, it seems you need rest. It would be best for you to sleep in a bed if you keep experiencing these episodes, let me help you get comfortable here.
“Didn’t help me yesterday.”
Alfred walked over to his tray. He returned with a steaming cup. “Was it the same dream?”
Over a cup of coffee, Bruce outlined the ordeal in detail, even describing the final fall. Alfred listened attentively, and gave an affirmative nod upon hearing him out. “It seems there are more enigmas at the cathedral,” Bruce concluded.
It seems like this situation is akin to an intricate puzzle or board game. Bruce looked into the hollow mug, his thoughts swirling with unanswered queries regarding the past events. In that moment, he was elated that everything had ended and grateful for Vicki’s safe escape, which made him not delve too deeply into the details at the time.
“But do you have any real reason to believe Jack Napier knew your identity?”
Bruce pondered over the fact that he remembered shooting Bruce Wayne in Vicki’s apartment, yet there was no news report about it. He concluded that he must have survived somehow. One of the remaining henchmen mentioned that perhaps Bruce had a bulletproof vest or something similar. Bruce furrowed his brow, contemplating whether the villain might have altered his thoughts on the matter.
“It’s paranoia, sir. The mind playing tricks.”
Indeed, the information I gathered about him is intertwined with what I know about my family, which was quite unexpected since they were present.
As a gamer, I folded my hands, feeling the confidence swell within me: “Mom and Dad don’t have to worry about what others think. They’re beaming with pride because they see me growing into someone extraordinary.
How about my transformation since that time? I’m aware of Vicki’s thoughts. But what is your opinion, Alfred?” Bruce looked off into the distance toward where Alfred had led Vicki into the Batcave several months ago. Directing his gaze towards Alfred, he inquired, “What do you make of it all?
Alfred gave a soft smile. “Years back, Miss Vale and I were privy to the same incident as you – an incident where Jack Napier was involved and you, undoubtedly, put an end to him. Given this understanding, Miss Vale believes it’s high time for you to part ways with your dual identity.
“And to you?”
In my view, your thoughts are the ones that truly count, and it seems like you’re still mulling things over.” He took a moment before continuing.
Throughout my life, I’ve learned that receiving justice for a wrong doesn’t undo the harm. The Joker’s punishment was fitting, yet it cannot heal all wounds. In time, when you’ve made amends, you’ll sense it.
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2024-10-08 17:10