Before the new era for Azrael can begin, the old era must end! Defying a direct order from Batman, Azrael sets out to clear his name and bring the malevolent Nicholas Scratch down! But no matter how the confrontation is resolved, the Azrael we've all come to know will be no more after this issue!

Nick Scratch meets a group of financiers and convinces them to close Gotham's financial institutions in exchange for profit. Over at his estate, the chief justice meets with other justices to discuss the legal ramifications of shutting down Gotham. In a televised speech, Scratch makes a moral case to stir public support against financing Gotham's recovery.

After seeking help from Oracle, Azrael infiltrates the justices' meeting in the chief justice's estate. He saves them from explosives planted by Scratch's men to assassinate them. A few days later, the Supreme Court votes against isolating Gotham. Days after the encounter, Batman commends Azrael's actions in saving lives and the two agree to work together.