Jerome Valeska emerges as a chilling force within the dark alleys of Gotham, a city already teetering on the brink of chaos. Born into the twisted confines of Haly's Circus, Jerome's early life was steeped in the bizarre and the macabre, shaping him into the psychopath he would become. At the age of 18, he brutally murdered his mother, an act that not only showcased his lack of humanity but also set him on a path of destruction. His incarceration in Arkham Asylum did little to curb his violent tendencies; instead, it served as a breeding ground for his madness. Upon escaping with a group of like-minded inmates, Jerome assumed leadership of The Maniax, a gang notorious for spreading terror across Gotham. His intelligence and cunning were evident in his schemes, such as when he killed a magician and donned his identity in a failed attempt to assassinate Bruce Wayne, showcasing his relentless pursuit of chaos. Jerome's laughter, a high-pitched cackle that echoed through the streets, became his signature, a sound that sent shivers down the spine of even the bravest Gothamite. His pale skin, often smeared with the blood of his victims, and fiery red hair made him a figure of nightmares. Dressed in a mix of circus attire and stolen clothes, Jerome's appearance was as chaotic as his mind. His ultimate goal was to plunge Gotham into anarchy, a desire fueled by his belief that life was nothing more than a cruel joke. Despite his efforts, Jerome's reign of terror was constantly challenged by the city's protectors, leading to a life filled with conflict and eventual downfall. Yet, in his twisted worldview, every failure was merely another punchline in the grand comedy of life.