Robin III Part 17: Detective Comics #619 (Early August, 1990)

Tim learns of his parents’ situation.

I have this issue in the Robin: Tragedy & Triumph Trade Paperback.

It’s early the next morning and Tim’s still in his room when Batman comes in with some food. Tim tells him that he’ll continue looking for Moneyspider – the thief who’s recently been using computers to steal millions from peoples’ bank accounts.

Tim heads to the cave and works at it for a while, but when Alfred comes in, Tim snaps. Alfred takes it in stride, and Tim apologizes before getting some rest.

He wakes up later and heads back to the cave, where he discovers the video of his parents being held for ransom. Tim explodes, furious that Bruce didn’t tell him they were still alive, but calms down and listens to what Batman has learned – his parents are being held in Haiti.

Batman is called away, and Tim is left with Alfred in the cave looking at Jason’s costume…wondering if his ordeal is a necessary step before earning the name Robin.

Notes of Interest:

1) This issue takes place immediately after Detective Comics #618.

2) Tim knew that Bruce kept the cowl on when he brought breakfast to keep his feelings hidden from the boy.

3) Alfred means a lot to him, and Tim tells him so.

4) Tim is going through some intense emotions, but manages to stay focused.

WTF? Moment: That moment where Tim tells Alfred that he appreciates him is tremendously touching. And the feeling is mutual, because Alfred protects him from Batman’s return. I love the growing grandfather/grandson type relationship between these two. It’s wonderful.

WTF? Moment #2: Artist Norm Breyfogle did a great job showing Tim’s emotional turmoil. We all know what Bruce went through with his parents’ deaths, but it’s been a while since we’ve seen it. With Tim, we get a fresh perspective. The rage, the helplessness, the control and the determination are all redirected to this kid who has no idea what he’s getting into beyond “going out into the night and fight the bad guys with Batman”. Bruce has been through Hell. Dick has been through Hell. Jason died. And Tim thinks he can handle it? The truth is he can…but he has to endure a lot to get there.