Usually events start out strong and then sputter out as the issues move along, so when you're already starting from a lower position like the previous issues have done, it just has lower to fall.

It's not as strong as previous Batman issues in terms of really providing some strong character moments of big time reveals that really connect, but at this point it's like saying you're getting gold instead of platinum with Snyder and Capullo. The backup works to elaborate on the story while setting up Alfred's future stories, and I feel much more comfortable with this event going forward.

It's a book that will feel dated a few months after release, and seems intent on trying to convey big moments that aren't really there, but at the same time the strong art and novel changes to characters gives it a certain charm that might not be something you want to read every month, for instance, but at the very least keeps your eyes open for the second volume (hopefully it doesn't take another four years). Compared to Superman Earth One, it is a much more complete story that might not flesh out Batman completely, but it doesn't just completely miss the mark on characterization like Superman did.

The issue works for fans of every character involved, and is moving at a pace where it doesn't read like a needless cash grab crossover which is too prevalent these days. Add a decent cliffhanger for the final part next week in Daredevil #11, and it looks like this isn't a story that will just be ignored in a month or two.

This is shaping up to be one of those series that changes our knowledge of things just enough to tell a great story, much like SHIELD.

Despite everything involved this issue, it was one of the lighter stories told, as we get ready for another arc that promises another big death. And you know what, with Remender writing, it feels like it will actually mean something.