BATMAN: Who Killed The Joker?

Chapter Five: Family Matters

The Clocktower: 2:37AM

I flew into the Gotham Clocktower. Barbara's hideout was often here. It was her main headquarters as Oracle until she eventually got feeling in her legs back finally and was able to walk again. She got it back a few months ago, and has been operating as Batgirl for a few weeks again. However, that paralyzed state had come from The Joker years prior. So, I needed to question Barbara. I dropped into the ClockTower. There were bookcases all around me and a computer set up. Standing at the computer was Barbara who had just taken her helmet off and sat next to her computer. She stood there bent over the desk in her skintight purple, yellow, and black attire on the computer.

"Bruce." She said, turning around to look at me.

"Barbara." I said walking up to her for a hug.

She hugged me in return.

"I wish you'd told me you were coming. You startled me. I've been out tonight following a lead on Roman Sionis." She stated.

"What's going on with Roman? I've been doing nothing but following this Joker trail...which I came to ask you about..." I said.

"More of his trucks have been peaking back up the last few days since Joker's death. More guns are being ran. There's been lots of incidents flaring between his gang and the Joker gang. Trying to see if they have a role in this whole mess or if they're a bunch of buzzards." Barbara stated.

"What do you mean you came to ask me about the Joker situation..?" Batgirl asked.

"You see Barbara..I met with Nygma..I've met with a few people...I've learned that apparently Joker was in fear the night of his death..someone who is inspired by my symbol..was following him the night he died..he was in fear of his life. So I must ask Barbara...did you KILL The Joker..?" I asked, but hated the taste of it leaving my mouth.

"Are you fu-...are you kidding me right now!?" Barbara asked.

"Barb..I hated to ask..but I know the trauma he put you through. Shot you. Paralyzed you. Stripped you naked and took pictures...I.." I began.

"I know WHY you'd think it and I know what he did..but it's the fact you even have to ask Bruce.." Barbara said, running her fingers through her long red hair and let out a sigh.

"I'm not..I'm not mad at you.." she began.

"I just..wish it HAD been me..you know?" She asked.

"I know exactly Barb.." I said.

"I've been feeling it myself...you struggle because of him...I struggle, my life is a struggle because of him...Jason isn't the same because of him...I need to find Jason. Apparently your dad ran into him at Joker's hideout..he wants to see me..but..I don't think he killed Joker..I think he just wants to clear his name about not doing it with me..it feels too obvious...." I said.

"Where's Dick..?" I asked.

"Dick's been busy with Grundy in Blüdhaven doing Nightwing things as far as I know. You can see him if you feel the need, but I can vouch for him. I was at his place the night Joker died." Barbara continued.

"I trust you. I don't want to bug him. I'm sure he has his hands full. Keep me updated on this Roman Sionis thing...have you heard from Tim lately?" I asked.

"Not talked to Tim in awhile. Just give his cell a call tomorrow. But go home and try getting some rest...you look tired Bruce...get some lunch with him or something." Barbara said.

I smirked.

"This city doesn't sleep.. if I do..I could wake up with it burning." I said.