The miniseries also features the second Robin, Jason Todd.
Beyond Gotham, the authorities try to protect the city, then the National Guard is called in, then the military, and finally martial law is declared on Gotham. An attempt on Commissioner Gordon's life is made by Blackfire's group, leaving him in a hospital. Gotham City politicians are assassinated by Blackfire's party of followers.
The story also delves into other territory. Batman is eventually freed from the cult, but takes a long time to recover from his treatment at their hands. Following a lengthy period of captivity, Batman slowly succumbs to brainwashing. The story follows the machinations of Deacon Blackfire and his band of homeless followers, who have kidnapped Batman before the events of this story.