Following the capture of Carmine Falcone by Batman, a masked gang known as the Poison Thorns begin seizing Falcone's illicit assets. Vicki Vale and Batman learn that the Thorns are seeking something called Deathshade. With the aid of Commissioner James Gordon, Batman thwarts a Thorn attack. James is lauded for his heroism at a re-election event for Mayor Hugo Strange. The Thorns attack the event, killing James and many other attendees. Bruce witnesses Pamela Isley transforming into their leader, Poison Ivy, but is knocked unconscious before he can intervene. Following the attack, Strange hires Amanda Waller and Argus to supplant the police. Bruce befriends James' daughter, Barbara Gordon, and persuades her to work with his butler, Alfred Pennyworth. Bruce and Victor Fries continue their research into cryogenics, but Strange withdraws their funding in an attempt to force Victor to work for him.
