The Joker had lost a shoe.
Its heel struck a brace before it fell into the crowd below. Several upturned heads followed it briefly, then quickly turned back toward the building.
He glanced down too.
So many people.
If he died here tonight, at least he wouldn't have to worry about the funeral.
It was hard to understand how the Joker's mind worked. Or rather, anyone who could understand it was insane.
Black matter coiled around the Joker's chest and stomach, hauling him toward the window frame. His ribs ached under the pressure. He drew a breath, stretched his grin wider, and pressed his bloodstained lips against the hand reaching for his neck.
"Yes, yes! Right there!"
He strained his head forward, blood from his temple running into his eyes, unwilling even to blink. Fingertips had already touched his neck. He lifted his chin, offering up the spot that would snap most easily.
Spider-Man had killed.
Next, it was his turn!
His toes curled with anticipation. His shoeless foot found the steel beam outside the window, trying to push himself a little closer. A black mouth split open before him, its teeth almost touching the tip of his nose.
The Joker laughed until his throat went hoarse.
"Kill me! Hahahahaha! You weren't this slow when you killed them!"
Below, Batman raised his head.
"Robin, take him."
He passed the man still struggling under his arm toward the side door. Dick immediately caught his shoulders, while Jason took his legs from the other side. The man turned and bit Dick's sleeve. As the two dragged him backward inside, Batman had already fired his grapnel.
The hook bit into the load-bearing structure beside the window.
The black Heavy Armor left the ground, rising along the broken braces. The Joker spotted those pointed