The story continues, with special guest-star Zatanna. Batman and his new bat-team – Azrael, Batwoman, Batwing, Orphan and Clayface (?!) duke it out with a giant robot sent by the Order of St. Dumas. But since Azrael has historically been the Order’s assassin of choice, the robot is confused. Like a virus uploaded into its programming. Its AMAZINGLY complex programming, according to Lucas Fox.

But with matters bordering on the mystical, Batman turns to his trustworthy friend Zatanna. Partly to ease his mind, but also partly in search of a favor – one that even Zatanna is reluctant to grant.

Again, artists Martinez and Fernandez provide a dearth of two-page spreads. They’re great if you’re reading the tried and true pamphlet style comic book, but if you prefer the digital edition, you’re screwed. Shame on DC Comics for not providing them as a single image. I work in the print industry, and know how easy it is to create a two-page spread in a multi-page document.

But the art is otherwise remarkably strong. As I said before, it’s been ages since I read a Batman title, and I’m very much enjoying this one so far. There may be extenuating circumstances, and the rug may be pulled out from under my enthusiasm, but I’ll cross that bridge if/when I come to it.