"Batman: Death Mask" is a four-issue manga series that blends the iconic Batman mythos with Japanese cultural and supernatural elements. The narrative unfolds across two timelines, intertwining Bruce Wayne's past experiences in Japan with his present-day investigation into a series of gruesome murders in Gotham City. The story begins with Bruce, during his formative years, training in Japan under a martial arts master. There, he encounters a mysterious woman named Kirie, who is linked to a cursed Noh mask known as the Death Mask. The mask is said to possess supernatural powers, granting its wearer immense strength but at a terrible cost.

In the present, Gotham City is plagued by a string of murders where victims are found with their faces grotesquely disfigured. Batman discovers that the killings are connected to the Death Mask, which has resurfaced and is being sought by a dangerous yakuza group. As Batman delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a connection between the mask, Kirie, and his own past. The investigation leads him to confront not only the yakuza but also the supernatural forces tied to the mask. The narrative explores themes of identity, vengeance, and the duality of human nature, as Batman grapples with the mask's corrupting influence and its ties to his own history.

The series features a mix of traditional Batman elements and Japanese folklore, with a focus on psychological tension and action. Key characters include Batman/Bruce Wayne, Kirie, and the yakuza leader, who serves as the primary antagonist. The story's structure alternates between flashbacks and the present, creating a layered narrative that reveals the origins of the Death Mask and its impact on both Bruce and Gotham. The manga incorporates elements of horror and mystery, with the mask serving as a central symbol of both power and destruction. The artwork reflects a blend of Western and Japanese styles, emphasizing the cultural fusion at the heart of the story.