I can't answer everything - but this might help -

The assassins are all newly created except for Merlyn and Hook. Fabian Nicieza is writing a story for I forget which title and will show more about these assassins.

The binoculars angle is correct. We're looking through the lens, seeing what Batman's seeing. It would only be reversed if we were looking at the reflection from in front of him, but we're not, we're 'him'.

And the swoop - yes - over the top. But this is Batman. He can do it no problemo.

Batman dies. It was supposed to be interpreted that the monks placed him in the fountain to save him. Sensei fell in and died because he wasn't pure. Ra's took over a monk's body before dying himself.

I haven't seen these boards in ages. Figured I'd drop in and say hi to you guys.
Check out my blog at http://www.tonydaniel.blogspot.com

Tony Daniel