There is a running gag in DC Comics regarding how far Bruce Wayne will go to protect his secret identity. Typically, this involves him playing the fool or the coward to explain his absence when the Dark Knight shows up. However, sometimes Bruce is forced to explain away knowledge or skills he shouldn’t have while saving lives as a civilian. Recently, Batman had his cover blown to his new girlfriend in a most amusing fashion.
Written by Matt Fraction, with art by Jorge Jiménez, Batman #5 centers around a rare night off for the Dark Knight. At least, that was his intention in taking Dr. Annika Zeller out for dinner. The psychiatrist had proven herself a devout defender of the mentally ill, and held her own against Hugo Strange in a public debate. Unfortunately for Bruce, Annika seemed more interested in how the Wayne Foundation could help fund her research than him as a romantic partner.
(Image Source: DC / Jorge Jiménez)
The evening took an unexpected turn in both directions as Bruce realized they were being followed. A group of sword-wielding assassins on motorcycles chased the couple through the streets of Gotham’s Little Tokyo district. Despite this, Bruce was able to evade the would-be killers at every turn. Even when cornered by a shapeshifting assassin called The Ojo, who changed into a flock of birds, Batman came out on top.
In classic Batman fashion, however, Bruce attempted to divert every question Annika had about Bruce Wayne’s unexpected skill sets. From his stuntman-level driving skills, to his strength in carrying her to safety, he proved to be more than she expected. She also confirmed she did think of their dinner engagement as a romantic date, given her impractical heels and tight skirt. All in all, it seemed that Batman’s secret identity was safe, along with Bruce’s romantic intentions.
(Image Source: DC / Jorge Jiménez
How Bruce Wayne’s new girlfriend learned he’s Batman
However, the unexpected arrival of an ally wound up ruining Batman’s efforts to save his secret identity. Once again cornered by the Ojo, Bruce readied himself for a direct fight. It was at this moment that the current Robin, Bruce’s son Damian Wayne, showed up to save the day.
Robin was able to drive the Ojo off, explaining that he had studied her during his time with the League of Assassins. He also asked his father to note that he did adhere to his “no killing” policy. Unfortunately for Batman, despite her terror in the moment, Annika noticed that Robin had addressed him as “father.”
(Image Source: DC / Jorge Jiménez)
It is unclear just how this revelation may alter the relationship between Bruce and his would-be girlfriend. The two had met before while he was in his Batman guise, and his treatment had been less than kind. It seems likely she may be skeptical that he honestly was wanting to get to know her socially and not spying on her because of her work rehabilitating Batman’s enemies.
Batman #5 is now available at comic shops everywhere.