"That was a large weapon designed for war—the Microwave Generator.
"It could emit microwaves, heating and evaporating the enemy's water supply from a distance."
Lucius had been relegated to the building's basement for several years. During that time, William Earl had paid him no attention, until a few days ago, when he suddenly sent someone to retrieve the Microwave Generator's detailed specifications.
"Water supply?"
"It sounded like no big deal if it was lost.
"But the people who hijacked it must have had no simple purpose, because dozens had died just to get it."
Every crew member aboard the cargo ship transporting the Microwave Generator had been killed.
"Any leads?" Bruce frowned.
"All the bodies disappeared, likely thrown into the sea.
"At the scene, someone found this."
Lucius took out a photograph. A bloodstained Ninja Shuriken was embedded in the cargo ship's bulkhead.
Seeing the shuriken's design, Bruce's pupils contracted.
"You recognize it?"
"I'll find someone to investigate this."
Without answering directly, Bruce spoke with a complicated expression.
Of course he recognized it. Most of his skills had been learned there, where he had endured ancient, brutal, inhuman training that forged his will—the League of Shadows.
But when the League ordered him to kill a criminal to prove his determination to serve justice, then told him to lead the League of Shadows in destroying Gotham City, he had caused chaos and used gunpowder to destroy that base.
"It seemed this wasn't over yet."
Staring at the photograph, he seemed to smell the earthy scent mixed into the damp air before a storm. His gaze sharpened.
Manchester Restaurant, Burnley District, central Gotham City.
It was one of the finest restaurants in the city, its patrons either wealthy or influential.
The lights blazed brightly, the decor was elegant and refined, and