In the first part of this story . . Batman Dead? . . we see how some of the various characters in Gotham were reacting and adjusting to Batman's disappearance. This issue we see how some of those same characters have renewed their lives and agendas now that Batman has been spotted over thier city. Dick has finally decided to take up and assume the mantle that was left behind by his mentor and friend. And it seems as if these characters, and the city, have breathed a collective sigh of relief. I like the introduction of this Veil character. She's almost like the Phantom Stranger of Gotham. She watches, and monitors and interprets, but . . I don't see her getting directly involved in things. Stephanie has renewed her purpose. She knows that currently she's working outside of the 'approved' vigilante 'family' . . there's an oxymoron if I ever heard one, but . . she's still dedicated to trying to make her city better. I love the dialogue between her and Tim. He apologizes to her. Not for what he said, but for the delivery. He also wants to say good-bye, as he's about to leave on his own mission. Things seem to be getting pretty back to normal for Harvey, Jamie and Commissioner Gordon. Harvey's trying to figure out the mystery of Azrael and just exactly what went down at the church. Leslie is back in business at the clinic. She's got the Cavalier, Mortimer Drake, as her body-guard. And she tells Dick, "If I'm going to do this all over again, I will do more than heal wounds, Richard . . I have to save souls. Starting with my own . . " And finally Vicki Vale seems to have found a new mission in life. She's tired of all the excuses that Bruce, and his 'family', have offered her over the years. She's now on a mission to figure out what's going on here, and she's starting to make some connections. "Yeah, I could believe it. But proving it will be a whole 'nother matter . ." So . . things have changed, and I'm sure they will continue to do so, but as the Veil notices "The city has a feeling as if a proper order has been restored. Feeling alive. The city lives . . and so does her Batman." I think Fabian Nicieza has done a terrific job with this issue . . as he did with it's predecessor. It's a great introduction for this new direction. The talent of art on this issue was equally comparable. It includes Dustin Nguyen, Guillem March, ChrisCross, Jamie McKelvie, Alex Konat and Mark McKenna. Now it's time to open the gates . . let the race begin.
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