Batman and Catwoman’s backs were against the wall (Batman No. 151 by Chip Zdarsky). They were outnumbered, overpowered, and still needed to get the Motherbox. While Catwoman stole it, Bruce fought Amanda Waller’s henchmen ( Bizarro, Clock King, Black Alice, and Deadeye). The Dark Knight used a combination of speed, skills, and intelligence to keep them busy. As Catwoman attempts to steal the Motherbox, a timer goes off. Instead of an explosion, nothing happens. This left the duo to stay on track. However, an explosion was less dangerous than what was coming.
As Waller’s team runs away, Batman notices the air chill. With fear in his eyes, Bruce says, "No." and tells Selina to run. Deadeye (just beaten by Bizarro) says he wants to go home. Unfortunately, his wish never comes true. Two bright red lasers hit and killed him. Comic book fans know what red lasers and a Mother Box equals. For the uninformed, Darkseid has returned.
Batman believes he understands Waller’s plan. If she can’t have the Motherbox, no one can. The contingency plan is sound, but if Waller believes Darkseid is the better option, she’s worse than anyone knew. The Lord of Apokolips isn’t some average villain. He’s walking death and can destroy Earth without superheroes to fight back.
At the end of the issue, Batman admits if Darkseid wanted him and Catwoman dead, they would be. Darkseid likely wants them to let the heroes know he’s back. It’s probably why the last thing we see is him smiling. There’s no way he doesn’t have a plan for the future since, right after Absolute Power, the Absolute Universe will begin.
A fight between Superman’s Justice League and Darkseid causes the creation of a dark, DC Elseworld called the Absolute Universe. One where Batman isn't raised by Alfred, Superman doesn't have Ma and Pa Kent, and Wonder Woman wasn't raised in Themyscira.
The word collision comes up regarding Superman and his Justice League during DC Comics' All In and the Absolute Universe. While this is usually metaphorical, it’s likely literal here. Forces as powerful as Superman and Darkseid could easily create a new universe.
If the Man of Steel can punch time, he and Darkseid’s battle can create new worlds. We'll have to wait and see how that happens. When it does, stay tuned to Caped Crusades for how this affects Batman and the Bat Family.
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