Robin III Part 34: Batman #468 (Early September, 1991)

Robin gets sidelined…and Tim knows why.

I have this issue.

Tim’s practicing his tennis moves on the court at Wayne Manor when Bruce arrives and tells him that in order to improve his school work, Robin will be taking the next few nights off. Tim argues the decision by saying that since the Ghost Dragons are around, Bruce could use all the help he could get. Bruce tells him that his schoolwork takes priority and walks off, while Tim guesses the real reason behind the grounding.

That night, Bruce returns to the cave wounded. And as Alfred patches him up, Tim comes in dressed as Robin. He tells Bruce that he knows the truth – King Snake may still be alive, and Bruce is trying to protect him. He also tells his mentor that Batman becomes reckless on the streets without Robin to look after. Bruce tells Tim to trust him, and that until they know more about what’s going on with the Dragons the best play is to keep Robin off the streets.

Tim agrees, but makes Bruce promise to stay in the rest of the night and heal up.

Notes of Interest:

1) Tim really cares for Bruce, and worries not only for his safety, but for his obsession as well.

2) Alfred is impressed by his ability to tell Bruce what to do…and have him actually do it.

WTF? Moment: You’d think the tennis ball machine would come with a remote to turn it off wouldn’t you…but then how else would Tim be able to knock it over from across the court? Use one of the balls already on the ground by his feet? Nah…