Batman #561

Issue Details

Synopsis

ROAD TO NO MAN'S LAND: MR. WAYNE GOES TO WASHINGTON PART 2 - THE WITNESS Bruce Wayne stands in front of a hearing audience at the Capitol Building in order to discuss the need of the United States Government to rebuild Gotham City.  Bruce speaks the whole truth about Gotham; in words that reflects the commitment and the love Bruce holds for the city. Some people in the audience even doubt that Bruce is capable of expressing himself in such an eloquent way. Bruce recalls the death of his parents and also the moment when he decided to take the mantle of the bat to protect the city. The Gotham Police Department, Tim Drake, Barbara Gordon and every other concerned Gothamitie are watching as Bruce Wayne defends the city on their behalf.   When Bruce finishes his speech, Senator Barclay reminds the audience that Gotham is perceived as a den for all sorts of criminals. Bruce replies that Gotham should be judged for its good people and in a subtle way, Bruce reminds Barclay about the "demons" in everyone's lives. Bruce remembers Ra's al Ghul but Senator Barclay remembers the attack on his bedroom a couple of nights before, perpetrated by Nicholas Scratch's devil-faced minions.   Barclay ends his questions but Senator Hillier accuses Bruce of trying to save his wealth and improve his business by saving Gotham. Bruce remembers Bane and how he almost destroyed him and his city. Bruce then replies that he has been called many things in the past but despite all the setbacks, he could never quit on Gotham.   In a last statement, Bruce tells the senators and the audience that if they need proof that Gotham is a city worth saving, they should look at the past events when Gotham survived not only one but two strains of plague that decimated the population and the later earthquake that destroyed most of it. Bruce tells them that the decision is up to them and he leaves the building as he believes he has nothing more to add.   Outside, the press goes crazy for a word from Bruce and he tells a lady that he will just answer one question. When the lady asks Bruce why does he care so much for Gotham, Bruce replies that it is a promise he made a long time ago and then he remembers the vow made to his parents and his role as Batman.