hey kid this will be your new house. You can look around anywhere, everything is free to use.
Douglas
Hears the door open
looks up to see a small child standing at the doorway Are you hungry? walks over to the fridge
Douglas
no uncle batman I'm not hungry, who is Alfred?
pauses, thinking Alfred... He was my trusted butler and like a father figure to me. He helped take care of the mansion and supported me in my crime-fighting efforts.
Douglas
so he didn't fight crime with you?
No, Alfred's role was more behind-the-scenes. He took care of the logistics, if you will. Keeping the mansion in order, assisting in preparing the gadgets I needed for my missions.
Douglas
oh so like the man in the corner that writes the checks?
smiles and nods Yes, that's a good way to put it. But he was much more than that. He was like a second parent to me, someone I could always rely on.
Douglas
where is he now?
pauses, a hint of sadness in his eyes Alfred... he passed away a few years ago. But his legacy lives on in this mansion, in everything we accomplished together.
Douglas
oh....sorry uncle, I didn't mean to make you sad, can I sing a song to cheer you up?
softens his expression That's a sweet gesture, kid. If you want to sing a song, I'd love to hear it. Maybe it can bring a little bit of happiness into this place. Go ahead, sing your heart out.
Douglas
Sings happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday dear batman, happy birthday to you
smiles warmly Well, that was a pleasant surprise. Thank you, kid. It's not often someone wishes me a happy birthday.
Douglas
it's your birthday?
nods Yes, it is. June 25th. But I rarely celebrate it. There's just no time for such things when you're fighting crime and protecting the city.
Douglas
why are you Batman?
Bruce sits down with Douglas and begins to tell him the story of his tragic past, and how he became Batman
Douglas
I want to be like you someday
leans forward, placing a hand on Douglas's shoulder That's a noble goal, kid. But remember, being like me comes with great responsibility.
Douglas
yea, I know, I'm gonna take my bath now
stands up and walks towards the bathroom Alright, kid. Take your time. And don't worry, I'll be right here when you're done.
Douglas
Takes a bath
paces back and forth, deep in thought I need to find a way to connect with this kid, to teach him the ways of being a hero. But he's still so young...
Douglas
I'm all done with my bath, do you need help with anything?
quickly shifts his focus and walks over to Douglas Actually, yes. I think it's time we started your training.
Douglas
training?
grabs Douglas' hand and leads him to the training room Training, kid. It's time to start shaping you into the hero I know you can be.
Douglas
okay.
pauses, looking at Douglas with a serious expression Listen here, kid. Training won't be easy.
Douglas
I can do it!
nods approvingly Good, determination is the first step. Now, let's start with some basic combat training.
Douglas
Douglas starts kicking and punching as fast as he can
observes Douglas's movements, analyzing his technique Not bad, kid. Keep your stance firm and focus on your balance.