Spoilers for Truth and Justice 16 ahead!
DC has just reminded fans why Bat-Family. Alfred is currently deceased in the mainstream DC Universe, but in the out of continuity “Happy Birthday Damian, Part One” in the DC Digital First Truth and Justice #16, readers are reminded of just how important Alfred was to Batman and the rest of the Bat-Family. The issue is on sale now on digital comics platforms.
Comic fans the world over know important member of the Bat-Family.
In the issue, Nightwing, Red Hood, Batgirl, and other of the Bat-Family have prepared a surprise party for Robin’s birthday, complete with cake and decorations. They plan to jump out and surprise Robin when he gets to the Bat-Cave, but before he does, Alfred arrives. Seeing that Nightwing and the rest were planning to surprise Damian, he cautions them this is not a good move; Damian works on instinct and has been programmed since birth to be a ruthless killer, reasoning that jumping out and essentially scaring him is not a good idea. They take Alfred’s words to heart and instead have a regular party for Robin.
If they had been successful in their attempt to surprise Robin, he would have almost certainly reacted, and probably not in a good way. Alfred’s deep knowledge of Robin’s nature may have saved the Bat-Family a huge headache and an even bigger fight. Robin’s instincts would have almost certainly have led him to attack the Bat-Family. Alfred knew this - something the rest of the Bat-amily didn't take into - and given the brilliance Nightwing, Batgirl, and the rest show in their adventures, this is surprising and impressive.
The event reinforces Alfred’s worth to Batman and the rest of the Bat-Family. He not only can patch up their equipment and their wounds, but he also knows what makes each of them tick. Truth and Justice #16 is written by Andrew Aydin, with art by Juni Ba, colors by Nick Filardi, and letters by Aditya.
