Gotham City had recently become extremely lively—so lively that many people did not know how to cope. After enjoying several years of peace, Gothamites suddenly found that, overnight, all manner of monsters and freaks had emerged across Gotham City. Criminals, bounty hunters, mercenaries, and gangs all appeared in droves. Joker continued to provoke Batman as usual, carrying out elaborate, mind-bending criminal games. But now, there were clearly going to be more players in this game. Bruce had just left the mayor's office.