Batman: The Gauntlet

Summary

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DC High Volume: Batman — Batman: The Gauntlet

Podcast by DC | Realm
Date: November 12, 2025
Episode Focus: An audio adaptation of "Batman: The Gauntlet" — Dick Grayon’s final test before becoming Robin, set against Gotham’s criminal underworld.

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Overview

This episode brings to life the iconic DC comic "Batman: The Gauntlet," adapted from the works of Frank Miller, David Mazzucchelli, Jeph Loeb, and Tim Sale. Focused on Dick Grayson's last, most dangerous trial before officially becoming Robin, the story is set during a tense Fourth of July weekend in Gotham. Bruce Wayne (Batman) tasks young Grayson with eluding the Dark Knight until sunrise while criminals, led by gangster Joe Manette, turn the city upside down looking for evidence that could destroy their empire. The gauntlet quickly turns lethal as Dick becomes a target not just for Batman, but for Gotham’s most ruthless mobsters.

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Key Discussion Points & Story Beats

Setting the Stakes and Introduction

• Dick Grayson’s Oath & Training: After losing his parents, Dick pledges to fight for justice alongside Batman, enduring grueling training and countless trials (00:56).
• The Gauntlet Is Set: Bruce gives Dick his "final exam": survive alone in Gotham for a night without being found by Batman—while staying within city limits and in costume (08:51).

Crime and Corruption in Gotham

• Joe Manette’s Reign: The criminal underworld, led by Manette, deals in drugs, vice, and violence. Batman describes Manette as "as deadly as a barracuda" (03:18).
• Corrupt Webs: When Batman saves Carlton Tate from Manette, legal loopholes and witness reluctance let the criminals walk free. Batman is frustrated with operating outside the law’s limits (05:12-05:27).

Dick Grayson Begins The Gauntlet

• Rules of Engagement: Dick recites his restrictions and objectives, showing Alfred he’s prepared, though Alfred worries for the boy’s safety and soul (08:51-10:35).

  • “Is Master Dick best served by becoming part of the Batman’s violent world?” — Alfred (09:49)

• Psychological Importance: Bruce defends Robin’s role as a healthy outlet for Dick’s grief:

  • “Robin will be his release valve…a way to exorcise that darkness before it can corrupt his soul. Nobody else can give him this, Alfred. Only I can. And I will.” — Batman (10:03)

The Mob Moves & Dick’s Cleverness

• Mob Paranoia: Manette is desperate to find Batman’s weakness, placing his lackeys on edge and mobilizing every informant and enforcer to keep their operations intact (06:35-07:50).
• Clue-Laden Chase: Dick skillfully lures Batman across Gotham with riddles and puzzles, staying a step ahead (11:02-19:32). Batman praises his "taunting" and intelligence but later warns of the dangers of forming predictable patterns.

Dick’s First Confrontations

• Crime Alley Incident: Dick intervenes in a vicious mob beating, saving undercover cop Ricky Terranova, but accidentally attracts even more criminal attention (11:09-14:33).

  • “Send for an ambulance, too. These jerks are gonna need it.” — Robin (11:29)
  • “Some kid wants to play hero. All right, Robin Hood, let us show you what it means to mess with the big boys.” — Del Kane (11:34)

• Now a Target: Manette learns of the “kid in costume” and fixes his entire network against Dick:

  • “Call Anthony… Have them comb the city. When they spot the punk, you go snatch him… I want this kid.” — Joe Manette (14:09)

Mob vs. Boy Wonder — Survival Chase

• Increasing Peril: As Robin moves through theater districts and charity offices planting clues, Manette’s forces close in (17:19-19:32).

  • “He has to follow my trail…wait till he sees the clue I planted at IDT. Even Riddler would have trouble figuring it out.” — Robin (17:19)
  • Batman realizes Dick is leading him on a wild chase, but warns “the danger of patterns” (17:52).

• Deadly Encounters: Robin is pursued through a warehouse, the bridge, and the Gotham sewers—outmaneuvering thugs and improvising escape routes, but is eventually captured and tied up.

  • “At least they can't reach me when I’m hanging below the bridge here.” — Robin (25:42)
  • “They must have thought he was helpless. It took him less than 90 seconds to free himself.” — Batman, impressed with Dick’s skills (29:41)

Climax: Showdown at the Fireworks Barge

• Manette’s Final Attempt: Robin tricks and evades Manette’s bruisers, culminating in a chaotic fight aboard a barge loaded with fireworks (33:02-34:48).

  • “You and your jackals have chased me from one end of town to the other, Manette. What do you want with a small fry like me?” — Robin, exhausted but resolute (33:44)
  • “I run Gotham City. Right, kid? You got past my best men. But not me.” — Joe Manette (34:03)

• Batman Intervenes: Batman observes Dick’s resilience and readiness from the shadows, prepared to step in but also realizing Robin can handle himself.

Resolution and Passing the Gauntlet

• Mob Arrested, Dick Recognized:

  • Commissioner Gordon’s men arrest Manette and his crew (35:11-35:20).

  • Batman and Dick reunite; Bruce solves Dick’s riddles and praises, but constructively critiques his risk-taking (35:59-36:43).

  • “I wouldn’t go that far. It may not be sunrise, but this looks like the dawn of a new day to me. Come on, let’s go introduce you to Commissioner Gordon. Partner.” — Batman (37:08)

  • Dick is officially recognized as Robin, Batman’s partner.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Alfred's Doubt About the Path (09:49)

  • “He is just a lad. Have you considered the road upon which you’re placing him? Is Master Dick best served by becoming a part of the Batman’s violent world?” — Alfred

• Bruce on Robin’s Purpose (10:03)

  • “Robin will be his release valve… a way to exorcise that darkness before it can corrupt his soul. Nobody else can give him this, Alfred. Only I can. And I will.” — Batman

• Joe Manette’s Command (14:09)

  • “Call Anthony… Have them comb the city. When they spot the punk, you go snatch him… I want this kid.” — Joe Manette

• Dick’s Defiance During Capture (33:44)

  • “You and your jackals have chased me from one end of town to the other, Manette. What do you want with a small fry like me.” — Dick Grayson/Robin

• Batman’s Acknowledgment & Promotion of Robin (37:08)

  • “I wouldn’t go that far. It may not be sunrise, but this looks like the dawn of a new day to me. Come on, let’s go introduce you to Commissioner Gordon. Partner.” — Batman

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Key Timestamps

| Timestamp | Segment / Highlight | |------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 00:56 | Backstory: Dick Grayson’s oath, Robin’s final trial is set up | | 05:12 | Batman’s frustration with the law’s inability to stop Gotham’s criminals | | 08:51 | Dick runs through the rules of The Gauntlet with Alfred—stakes of the test | | 10:03 | Batman explains why Robin is important for Dick emotionally | | 14:09 | Manette places a hit on Dick/Robin | | 17:19 | Robin sets clever traps and clues to evade Batman | | 29:41 | Batman is impressed by Robin’s escape skills | | 33:44 | Robin’s climactic face-off with Manette | | 37:08 | Batman acknowledges Dick as his new partner, Robin |

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Conclusion

"Batman: The Gauntlet" is a thrilling, character-rich audio drama that brings a classic DC story to vivid life. The episode deftly explores Dick Grayson’s growth from grieving orphan to superhero partner, testing his wits and courage amid the criminal chaos of Gotham. Tense action, psychological depth, and clever puzzles highlight both Batman’s mentorship and Dick’s readiness for heroism. The episode closes with affirmation: a new day dawns, and Robin earns his place in Gotham’s legend.

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Transcript

[Batman]

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[Batman]

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[Batman]

Leave.

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

Learn more on Amazon. You're listening to DC High volume Batman. Only months ago, young Dick Grayson swore an oath with Batman to ensure that what happened to his family would never happen to another. But the road ahead has been a daunting one for our would be Robin. Endless nights of training in the Batcave and constant tests under Batman's vigilant watch. Dick Grayson faces the final trial to earn his place at Batman's side. And now, the gauntlet.

[Batman]

Closing in on midnight. I followed an unmarked van to Slate sand and Gravel.

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

Please.

[Joe Manette]

Why won't you tell me what you want? If it's money.

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

Money.

[Batman]

What a laugh.

[Joe Manette]

Right this way, Mr. Tate. Somebody wants to have words with you.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Come on.

[Del Kane]

Well, well, well. Carlton Tate. The Gianni Versace of Gotham City. You know, I'm really gonna enjoy making you squeal. Oh, God.

[Joe Manette]

Oh, God. Let me speak to Joe. He doesn't understand. This is a mistake. I can explain. You gotta believe me. Please. Delkane.

[Del Kane]

No mistake, pal. Welcome to payback time.

[Joe Manette]

Don't do this, Delcane. I'm begging you.

[Del Kane]

You stinkin weasel. It was Mr. Manette set you up in business. You've had it easy from the start. And how do you show your appreciation? By throwing in with the Graziano Ma. No one walks away from Joe Manette.

[Joe Manette]

Grease enough. My eyes. I can't see.

[Batman]

Getting caught in the flash from igniting nichrome creates up to three minutes of blindness. Afterwards, the epithelial layer of the cornea feels irritated and raw as if it's been rubbed with sand vapor. Jomanette deals in drugs and pornography, prostitution and gambling. He's ruthless. As deadly as a barracuda. And he deals harshly with people who cross him. As Carlton Tate almost learned.

[Joe Manette]

Don't, don't, don't. Don't hurt Me?

[Batman]

Don't worry, Tate. The flash pellets wear off quickly. Now stay under the fan and be quiet. The vice racket brings out the worst in everyone. Including me.

[Joe Manette]

Hey, the glare is fading. Yeah. Yeah. Shoot. For crying out loud, shoot him.

[Batman]

And my worst is a lot more severe than nichrome blindness.

[Alfred Pennyworth]

Man.

[Joe Manette]

Too close together. Don't let him take you. That's it, you dead meat freak show.

[Batman]

In your dreams, Dane. First you're going down. Then I'm taking out the rest of Joe Manette's sleazy organization. That's a promise. That promise will be tough to keep. I've spent weeks shaking down informants and digging to find the link between Tate and Joe Minette. Now I'm back at square one. All that time and effort wasted.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Hey, Bruce. Sounds like Batman had a busy night. From what I heard on the police ban, he really numbed Joe Manette's goons.

[Batman]

Too bad there's nothing to show for it.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Wait a minute. I don't get it. You saved Mr. Tate and took out Del Kane. Boss. Joe Binette's chief torpedo. What's wrong with that?

[Batman]

Tate refuses to press charges. Now he'll flee the country before Joe can try again. That leaves Del Kane facing a simple misdemeanor rap. Manette's probably already sprung him and the others. Joe Manette thinks he's above the law, but Batman will teach him differently.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

And maybe Robin should be your teacher's assistant.

[Batman]

You think you're ready for my final exam, mister?

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

I'll ace any test you give me.

[Batman]

I won't make it easy for you. This will be a practical field test. You'll have to handle it by yourself.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Trust me, Bruce. I know. I'm ready.

[Batman]

I'll set it up for the fourth of July weekend. That'll give you a couple more weeks to prepare while I start making things hot for Joe Manette. July 3, 9:30am Gotham City's financial hub, the Saltzman Building. Joe Manette has called an emergency meeting.

[Joe Manette]

For weeks now, the Batman has been squeezing us all over town. And I'm sick of it. I want Batman off my back.

[Batman]

Terranova, pay attention, will you? I am paying attention. Let me alone.

[Joe Manette]

Anthony, dig up all the dirt the media has on that pointy eared pest. You got it, boss. Batman must have a weakness. We're gonna find this soft spot and we're gonna hammer it and pound it until the stinkin Batman climbs off my back. In the meantime, we need to make sure all our key operations are protected.

[Batman]

I've put Extra muscle on all our actions. South side and in the East.

[Joe Manette]

That's good, Marky. Real good. At least you're taking this seriously. And Terra Nova. Stop it with the cards already. You're making me crazy. Hey, that's my lucky deck. Relax, Joe, relax. It's Batman making your life miserable. Remember, we're on your side. That's it. That is it. Everybody except Del Kane. Get out. Ow.

[Batman]

All right, all right.

[Joe Manette]

Okay, okay.

[Batman]

I warned you.

[Del Kane]

I shadowed him like you wanted. Ricky Terranova's undercover heat, Mr. Minette. I've seen him meeting Commissioner Gordon. He's been going through our records too. We can't let Terranova grab anything the DA can use against us.

[Joe Manette]

He ain't grabbing nothing. Take Hargis and Sil. Make sure you get whatever evidence he's collected. Then shut our friend Ricky up for good.

[Batman]

July 3, 2:32pm the Warehouse District, deserted over the long July 4th weekend.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Thanks for the lift, Alfred. See you tomorrow.

[Alfred Pennyworth]

Not so fast, young sir.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Aw, come on. Bruce and I have been over this a dozen times already.

[Alfred Pennyworth]

Then 13 must be your lucky number.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Okay, I'm on my own when you leave. I can't ask for help from anyone. I have to stay inside city limits and I have to remain in costume at all times. I've got a six hour head start. Then at sundown, Batman comes hunting me. To pass the test, I have to keep Batman from finding me until tomorrow at sunrise. Once I've done that, it's Lookout Gotham. Here comes Robin, the Boy Wonder.

[Alfred Pennyworth]

You seem to have an excellent grasp on your assignment. I wish. I wish you the best of luck. Master Dick.

[Batman]

Back at Wayne Manor.

[Alfred Pennyworth]

Beg pardon, sir? The boy has been placed in the city per your instructions. My hope is that Gotham's ruffians are all vacationing at the seashore this weekend.

[Batman]

You don't approve of this, do you?

[Alfred Pennyworth]

To be perfectly honest, I do not. He is just a lad. Have you considered the road upon which you're placing him? Is Master Dick best served by becoming a part of the Batman's violent world?

[Batman]

The whole concept of Robin is important to Dick, old friend. And it's important for Dick. When I lost my parents, I had no way to release my anger, my grief. Though he hides it well, those same emotions are churning away inside Dick. Robin will be his release valve. A way to exorcise that darkness before it can corrupt his soul. Nobody else can give him this, Alfred. Only I can. And I will.

[Alfred Pennyworth]

I trust you to know best. Though I confess to hoping this is one test our young Robin does not pass.

[Batman]

This game of hide and seek lets me judge Dick's abilities under real world conditions. Don't worry. Dick can't become Robin until I'm positive he is ready. 4:49pm on the rooftops of Crime Alley, Robin begins the gauntlet.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

I'm positive Batman will pick up my trail at Leslie's. But I'm ready for him. He'll never expect.

[Joe Manette]

Hey, move it. Say, you're blocking my view.

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

Your view?

[Batman]

Where is it, Terranova?

[Joe Manette]

Where the goods come. What's it gonna be, Ricky?

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Call the police. Ma'.

[Alfred Pennyworth]

Am.

[Del Kane]

Come on.

[Batman]

Where are the goods?

[Joe Manette]

Come on, Ricky, talk.

[Batman]

Where are the goods?

[Joe Manette]

Stick it.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Send for an ambulance too. These jerks are gonna need it.

[Del Kane]

Great. Just what we need now some kid wants to play hero. All right, Robin Hood. Let us show you what it means to mess with the big boys.

[Joe Manette]

Hargus. You want a licking, Brad? Huh? Is that what you want? I'll give you a licking, buddy.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

You couldn't lick your lips, you scrawny little. Come on, guys, be stupid. Try again.

[Joe Manette]

Cops.

[Del Kane]

Damn it. We're out of time. And so are you, Ricky.

[Joe Manette]

Head for the car, Boys.

[Del Kane]

Let's clear out of here.

[Joe Manette]

Get in the car.

[Batman]

You drive.

[Del Kane]

Del.

[Joe Manette]

You did it.

[Batman]

Help me.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Easy, pal, easy. Let's get this wound cleaned up. We want you looking good when the paramedics arrive.

[Joe Manette]

Lucky D. Gordon's Lucky D. Gordon?

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

You mean James Gordon, the police commissioner?

[Batman]

Gordon.

[Joe Manette]

Want some lucky deck, Gordon? Lucky deck?

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Those sirens are getting close. Batman should have flunked me. If I get tangled up with the authorities insist the cops are going to get a blow by blow description anyway.

[Joe Manette]

Hey, hey, sonny. Don't you go running off.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Wait.

[Joe Manette]

Now you hear?

[Batman]

Damn kids today don't pay no mind to nobody.

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

He's lost a lot of blood already.

[Joe Manette]

We gotta get him.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

I'll climb my shot, okay?

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

Yeah, okay.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Ready? We should leave. Looks like they got that poor guy stabilized. Good. Now let's see what's so special about his lucky deck.

[Batman]

Wow.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

No wonder those creeps are playing rough. The Mob can't risk having its pornographers selling to the police. These are not the kind of cards you can buy in stores. Gordon must have a wild side Batman doesn't know about.

[Del Kane]

Gordon's getting Terra Nova served up on the stretcher, boss, but.

[Joe Manette]

What?

[Del Kane]

There was this kid. He got the cops on us before Ricky could spill where he hid the evidence.

[Joe Manette]

A kid? What's his connection to Paranova?

[Del Kane]

We don't know, Mr. Manette.

[Joe Manette]

You don't know? You don't know. Well, you better find out. Call Anthony. Describe this kid to him. Tell him to get our lookouts on the streets. Have them comb the city. When they spot the bunk, you go snatch him. Don't screw up, Del Kane. I want this kid.

[Batman]

July 3, 8:47pm Sundown. I was hoping for a quiet holiday, Joe.

[Commissioner Gordon]

Not in Gotham, I'm afraid. I should be bringing the lab boys a microdot with the evidence we need to slap Joe Manette behind bars. Instead, my deep cover plant is in critical condition at County General. Ricky Terranova. His methods are unorthodox, but he gets results.

[Batman]

Hm. I like him already.

[Commissioner Gordon]

He was smuggling the microdot out on a deck of cards when Minette blew his cover. The boy saved Ricky from being beaten to death.

[Batman]

Boy?

[Commissioner Gordon]

Our witness says he must be trying out a costume for the big fourth of July parade. He left a scene with the cards. And the results of a year long undercover job that makes him a target for every hood on Minette's payroll. I've put out an apb, but can my men find him in time? It's a long shot. We'll do our best, but I'm shorthanded running holiday shifts.

[Batman]

Of course.

[Commissioner Gordon]

I knew I could count on your help, old friend.

[Batman]

Dr. Leslie Tompkins Clinic. I knew this would be Robin's first stop. Dick isn't a Gotham native. It's not easy to get a feel for the city when you're isolated living in Wayne Manor. But we often visit Leslie's clinic. He'd come here to get his bearings or to stash a message in an obvious place. The eye socket of the clinic skeleton. There's a slip of paper tucked inside ft blank ttt. It's not a message, it's a puzzle. Dick's trying to taunt me. Figure out the sequence, fill in box the blanks and get a clue to his location. Definitely not a letter substitution sequence. But it is either a two syllable or two word answer. Probably a location or an address. Sse blank N An address. Of course. If I'm lucky, this will give me a jump on Joe Manette and his good.

[Del Kane]

He's where? Don't lose him. We'll be there in 20 minutes. That was Al Liotta. He spotted the brat for us.

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

Where?

[Del Kane]

I want another shot at that little twerp down on Rosary Street. Seems how Good Samaritan is breaking into the Globe Theater.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

This place is perfect. July 3rd is always a dark night for the Globe. That way they can stage a special fourth of July matinee show. Instead, I've got time to set up a great gag here. Batman is at least three hours behind me. He has to follow my trail from Leslie's into City center and out to Mantlo park before coming all the way back to International Data Technologies. And wait till he sees the clue I planted at idt. Even Riddler would have trouble figuring it out.

[Batman]

I'll have to remind Robin about the danger of patterns. Dick wants me to waste time bouncing between Bruce Wayne's charities and his business competitors. The puzzle at Leslie's clinic led me to 1580 Fifth street, the headquarters of Palmco, Wayne Enterprises primary domestic rival. At Palmco, I found a rebus directing me to Mandel park, which the Wayne foundation preserves. That's when the pattern emerged. I skipped the park and came here. The offices of idt, my chief international competition. The gamble paid off. Robin has definitely been here. There, on the computer screen, an image of the Earth and a number. 917-92207. A phone number. Many businesses dial 9 to access the local trunk. No, forget it. The next three numbers, 1, 7, 9, don't form a valid Gotham Exchange. The graphic must mean something, too. But what? What am I missing? The Earth. The world. Ah, clever. The meaning only becomes clear in the mirror. The number's reflection spells out Rosserie. He's down at the Harbor. The Globe Theater on Rosserie Street. At least he was there. Dick could have spent all afternoon crisscrossing town, leaving clues for me. I've wasted enough time playing Robin's games. It's time for a different approach.

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[Dick Grayson/Robin]

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[Joe Manette]

What a life, Batman. Breathing down my neck. This kid out there causing trouble. The dirt Terra Nova collected is still missing. What else can go wrong?

[Batman]

Hello, Joe.

[Joe Manette]

Batman.

[Batman]

I was in the neighborhood. Your two friends here tried to stop me. So I gave them the night off and I thought I'd deliver a little message. Keep your slimy hands off the boy.

[Joe Manette]

Batman. Hey, Batman. Joe Manette. Don't wor on kids. You got me all wrong. Gone. The miserable blood sucker. He really cares about the boy. Yeah, he cares about that boy. Anthony, call Del Kane. Tell him we're sending backup. Then you scramble the boys. I'm talking about Ken Hollywood and the McMurray Brothers. Marky Little Howard and Mike the Lantern. I even want Peabody and Dick's airborne. Make sure they understand. Anthony, I Want this kid or his corpse? Damn it, Del Kane. I don't like the idea of reinforcements. Doesn't Joe think we can handle it?

[Batman]

Don't worry.

[Del Kane]

We're not losing this kid to the likes of Marky or Li Wu Haages. Go in there and grab him.

[Batman]

Me?

[Joe Manette]

What about you and Sil?

[Del Kane]

We're the insurance. If he slips past you. We'll make sure he doesn't go far.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Just a couple more connections and I can. What's that? Batman couldn't have pieced all my clues together so quickly. Please, please, don't let that be Batman.

[Joe Manette]

Jeez, what a dump. There's only about a zillion places he could hide. Real funny, kid. Except I ain't laughing. There's a whole gang of them coming down from the raft action. Free Kimy. You'll come a dummy. They're all just costume dummies.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Hey, I resent that. I recognize this guy. He's one of the creeps I tangled with in Crime Alley. And if he's here, his partners are probably right behind.

[Joe Manette]

Hey, that's him.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Uh oh. Speaking of the trouble twins.

[Del Kane]

Damn.

[Joe Manette]

Hargus blew it. Grab the wheel seal.

[Del Kane]

I'll nail the punk.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

They're coming back around. And I'm out of here.

[Joe Manette]

He's heading for the bridge. You can't run fast enough, pretty boy.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

What would Batman do? What would Batman do? Too bad he's not around to ask.

[Joe Manette]

Just. Son of a. He jumped.

[Batman]

Oh, yeah.

[Del Kane]

I didn't hear any splash, did you?

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Man, these jerks mean business. But at least they can't reach me when I'm hanging below the bridge here. What? Okay, Boy Wonder, what's your next brilliant move? It's gotta be this.

[Del Kane]

Yeah, that's it.

[Joe Manette]

Keep your eyes peeled.

[Del Kane]

Mr. Burnett will want the body.

[Batman]

Sure, Del Cane, sure.

[Joe Manette]

You got one small problem. Your body's heading into the sew.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

I can follow this back to the main tunnels. From there it'll be a cinch to lose the rats.

[Del Kane]

All right, boys, let's take this runt by the numbers.

[Batman]

They've spotted me. I tailed these two from Annette's office hoping they lead me to Robin. Now I'll have to get personal.

[Joe Manette]

Back off, you crummy spook.

[Batman]

All right, gentlemen, you asked for it. We'll do this the hard way.

[Joe Manette]

Swerver, hold it. I can't. I.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

I'm hiding at top some sewer pipes when I hear the gangsters approach.

[Batman]

I hate it down here. Tough. We ain't leaving without the kid.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Want to bet on that?

[Del Kane]

Uhhuh.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

You know, most hoods are content just to have their minds in the gutter.

[Del Kane]

Duck.

[Joe Manette]

Hang down here.

[Del Kane]

You're a real comedian, Robin Hood. Go ahead, tell me another one.

[Joe Manette]

I told you these saps could never take them by themselves.

[Del Kane]

Yeah. Good thing we've learned not to underestimate Junior here. I'd snuff you right now if I didn't need to score points with Ms. Manette. But after you get done spilling everything you know about Ricky Terranova.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Or at least that's what he thinks is going to happen.

[Batman]

I ran one of the gangster's vans off the road. Now to finish the job.

[Joe Manette]

Where's the damn gun?

[Batman]

Forget the gun. Worry about me. Manette sent you to kidnap a young boy.

[Joe Manette]

No.

[Batman]

Or kill him.

[Joe Manette]

No. Tell the truth.

[Batman]

Don't make me pull you up here. All this jagged metal.

[Joe Manette]

Okay, okay. Manette wants the kid like you say. That's all I know.

[Batman]

Where did Manette want the boy to live? Hurt.

[Joe Manette]

Riverside. Honest, I swear. Joe. Joe's got a warehouse down there. Oh, Lord.

[Batman]

That thug can only. Only mean one place. The business grapevine says Minette recently squeezed out the owners of Field Imports and bought their warehouse for a song. It's the biggest storage facility in town. And it's the only place with enough Pierce space to accommodate the barge containing Gotham's Fourth of July fireworks. Delane's on guard duty. I know I've come to the right place. It would be easy to take him out, but it's more important to check on the boy. I survey the warehouse from inside an air duct. They didn't take any chances. The rope is Samson Tech 12 maxibrate. And they combine Bow street knots with constrictor hitches to bind him. They must have thought he was helpless. It took him less than 90 seconds to free himself.

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

Yes.

[Batman]

That goon has his nose buried in a comic book. He hasn't noticed Robin's already above him. But now comes the tricky part. Robin took the ropes they used to bind him and tie to proper noose. It's placement that's the critical factor.

[Joe Manette]

Hey, hey. Don't.

[Batman]

The textbook jaw. He made sure the rope missed the hanging vertebrae and the jugular vein and the vagal nerve. That goon can hang for hours without dangerous strangulation. Robin is going to be a very good soldier. A very good soldier. But is he good enough to go one on one with Minette's top enforcer?

[Joe Manette]

Phil, what's going.

[Del Kane]

Damn that kid.

[Batman]

Though Kane doesn't look impressed. He's definitely out for blood. I can drop him from here with a Batarang.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Wait, no.

[Joe Manette]

Huh?

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

We haven't been properly introduced. I'm Robin. In your history, dirtbag.

[Batman]

Maybe I'm not needed after all.

[Del Kane]

You miserable pest. I've about had my fill of you.

[Joe Manette]

Come on, Delkane.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Big talk for someone who just got dumped on his keister.

[Del Kane]

Well, let's see if you still crack wise once you've had a taste of what I gave Terranova.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Yeah, right. You couldn't finish him off even after your buddies had worked him over.

[Del Kane]

That's good. You keep thinking that way. It ends right here, Robin Hood.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

You got that right. It ends right here.

[Batman]

Death row judo. We're just that come from. I never taught Dick that move.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

He's down for the count. Score another for the Boy Wonder. If he thought I was a pest before.

[Joe Manette]

Ha.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Finally all those creeps are out of my hair. But Batman's out there somewhere. And sunrise is still about three hours away. I've got plenty of work to do and.

[Batman]

Uh.

[Del Kane]

Oh.

[Joe Manette]

Freeze. Don't move.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Jo Minette.

[Joe Manette]

That's right. I want the evidence Terra Nova gave you. Hand it over and maybe I'll let you off easy.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Evidence from a penny anti porn dealer?

[Joe Manette]

Don't play cute. I'm not in the mood for games.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Not even hide and seek?

[Alfred Pennyworth]

Witty.

[Joe Manette]

That little. There.

[Batman]

Boss.

[Joe Manette]

He's headed for the fireworks barge. Get your lot. Button gear, Anthony. We ain't letting him get away.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Think, think, think. How do I turn this place to my advantage?

[Batman]

There's a hundred places you can hole.

[Joe Manette]

Up in this cow. We'll root them out. Stay sharp. Don't let him sneak past us. This stinks. We ought to call the boys for backup. Down there. Fire. Nothing. He's here somewhere. This way. Come on. I got a gut feeling, boss.

[Batman]

This punk's slippery as an eel. He got away from Dalcane. It takes a real pro to do that.

[Joe Manette]

And if we're not careful with all these firecrackers. Don't talk to me about firecrackers. Nothing matters except a punk in a cake. He ain't getting off this tub alive.

[Batman]

Yeah.

[Joe Manette]

There he goes. Cripes. I warned you. You hit a box of skyrockets. It's a chain reaction.

[Commissioner Gordon]

Come on.

[Joe Manette]

The whole barge can blow. And that's just what he's gonna figure too. So he'll head for the water. There he is.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

What?

[Joe Manette]

End of the line, kid.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

You and your jackals have chased me from one end of town to the other. My Manette. What do you want with a Small fry like me.

[Joe Manette]

You had to pay for helping that damn snitch. Terra Nova Snitch?

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

The guy in Crime Alley must be helping Gordon working both sides.

[Joe Manette]

And then I realized you were tied in with the Batman. That's when I knew you were dead meat. I'm gonna hang your carcass in Gotham Square. I'll show the Bat and Gordon and all the do gooders in this town. They better think twice before they mess with Joe Manette. I run Gotham City. Right, kid. You got past my best men. But not me. There's no way out for you now. No way.

[Batman]

My presence looms large. The boy doesn't even see. But he does take his opportunity.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

You know, Manette, I just figured out where the term river rat comes from. If only Batman could have seen this. All right, everybody out of the pool. The police just hate when you drip all over their patty wagons.

[Joe Manette]

Pressure's up. Bravo company sending us another pumper. Dean, run that line down here. Now you know who my lawyer is.

[Del Kane]

Come on, come on.

[Joe Manette]

Hands behind your back.

[Commissioner Gordon]

Come on.

[Joe Manette]

Easy, tough guy. A king. You read Mr. Man his rights.

[Batman]

Yeah, him and all his stooges. What a sorry looking bunch.

[Joe Manette]

Hey, you.

[Batman]

You set off enough sparklers to set.

[Joe Manette]

All a riverside to blazer.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Well, yeah, but.

[Joe Manette]

And mixing it up with the likes of Joe Manette. I don't want costumed scalawags running around my precinct, you understand?

[Commissioner Gordon]

At ease, sergeant.

[Joe Manette]

Mother cree.

[Alfred Pennyworth]

It's.

[Commissioner Gordon]

Walk with me, Delancey. I want your report. And I suspect these two need to talk privately.

[Joe Manette]

Whatever you say, sir. Saints preserve us.

[Batman]

I'll take the cards.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

How did you know about the cards?

[Batman]

The same way I knew. The answer to this puzzle you left at Leslie's was the first letters of the count by five numbers up to 115 and 85 were missing. That meant 1580 Fifth street your goal was to obviously to lead me on a merry chase all night long. Of course.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Obviously.

[Batman]

Now, let's see. Ah, here it is. That cop you saved in Crime Alley placed enough evidence on this microdot to put Minette away for good. Gordon will be pleased.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Yes, I made a major bust on my very first night.

[Batman]

True. But you should have delayed deliver the cards to Gordon immediately.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

I didn't know.

[Batman]

Right. You didn't consider all the possibilities that put you directly in Minette's line of fire. Plus all this damage. The Wayne foundation will be paying premium dollars for replacement fireworks to save Gotham's Independence Day celebration.

[Dick Grayson/Robin]

Worst of all, you found me way before sunrise. I flunked the test.

[Batman]

I wouldn't go that far. It may not be sunrise, but this looks like the dawn of a new day to me. Come on, let's go introduce you to Commissioner Gordon. Partner.

[Joe Manette]

SA.

[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

You'Ve been listening to DC High Volume the Gauntlet Batman Chronicles the Gauntlet comic story and art by Bruce Canwell and Lee Weeks. Directed by Fred Greenhalgh. Audio adaptation by Fred Greenhalgh, Roshan Singh, Sambi and Scott Lee Chua Batman created by Bob Kane With Bill Finger. Starring Jason Spisak as Batman and Nick Fisher as Robin. With Seth Austin as Del Kane and Michael McGlone as Joe Minette. Also starring Jessie Burch, Zach, Paul Brown, Kimur Hardiman, Charles Holford, Jay Paulson, Leonard Moore, Adam o', Byrne, Eric Lang, Tommy Kang, Matt Kaminski, Eric Morgan Stewart, Keith Sarabaika, Simon Vance, Mick Wingert and Time Winters. With crowd voices by Philip Hobbie, Heather Irish, Tony Reilly, Casey Turner, William Walker and Ashanti Williams. Casting by Sunday, Boling Kennedy and Meg Moorman. CSA produced by Fred Greenhalgh and Roshan Singh Sambhi Executive producers for dc Mike Pallotta and Victor Diaz Executive producers for Realm, Molly Barton and Carly Milori Production manager Jordan Acconcia. Music composed by Sam Ewing and Perrine Virgil. Additional music Marcus Thorne Bagala Supervising sound design and mix by Jeff Schmidt. Additional sound design by Jonathan Roberts. Dialogue editing by Chia Yam Chong Additional production support by Andas Productions Assistant editor Jamie Leidwinger Associate producer Andrew Kwan. Production services provided by Realm. Recorded at Real Voice, La CityVox, the Orange Lounge and Acadia Recording Company. This podcast was recorded under a SAG AFTRA agreement based on characters from dc. The characters and events depicted in this podcast are fictional. Any similarity to any actual person, living or dead, or to any actual events, firms, places and institutions or other entities is coincidental and unintentional. This podcast is protected under the laws of the United States and other countries and its unauthorized duplication, distribution or exhibition may result in civil liability and criminal prosecution. Copyright and trademark D.C. all rights reserved.

[Batman]

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[Joe Manette]

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[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

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[Dick Grayson/Robin]

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[Narrator/Commercial Announcer]

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