Acclaimed writer Ed Brubaker (CATWOMAN, GOTHAM CENTRAL) joins forces with fan-favorite artist Doug Mahnke (JLA, JUSTICE LEAGUE ELITE) for a Prestige Format Special that tells the tale of the Dark Knight’s first battle against his eventual archnemesis: The Joker!

A mysterious homicidal maniac is killing prominent citizens of Gotham City, each time leaving an unusual calling card: a ghastly rictus grin plastered on the victims’ lifeless faces. The Dark Knight Detective is on the case, and before long finds himself taking on the Clown Prince of Crime!

This adventure establishes the conflict that rages to this day!