Batgirl #3

One of the important Post-Flashpoint questions is how do all these characters now relate to each other. We've seen a dynamic shift in Bruce and Damian's relationship, as well many couples are split up, including Lois and Clark. Bringing in Nightwing for issue #3 establishes Dick and Bab's relationship, last touched on in Scott Snyder's "Detective Comics" run.

From Barbara's point of view, there's obviously a lot of sexual tension. She can't help but think back to their days as Batgirl and Robin, recalling how her "ballet" and his "acrobatics" were in perfect sync, a way of flirting. They chase each other throughout Gotham, Babs of course becomes pissed because he's checking up on her as Bruce and Dick are obviously trying to play big brother and protect her from herself. Dick gets her to rationalize that it's not because they don't trust her, it's because they care about her.

Oh, and Barbara almost tells Dick that she loves him. Between that and the inner-monologue, it's clear that she wants him baaaaaaaaaaaad. It's great because Gail Simone really has made Babs an awesome character, she's both girly and womanly and brash and tough, all at once. Along with Atrocitus in Red Lanterns, Barbara's one of my favorite characters I've gotten to know better since the relaunch.

What oddly helps this issue is that it gives the reader a break from the fairly-interesting villain "Mirror", shifting most of the focus to the Nightwing/Batgirl flirt-fight. Interesting note on that, when Batgirl makes Nightwing chase her, he's able to catch up when she thinks she's lost him. This either point to Higgins' assertion that Nightwing is one-one-A in comparison to Batman's abilities, or that Batgirl is still getting back into the swing of it. Or maybe some of both, either way, good choice.

What I liked: With all the action in the first two issues, I'm glad this one slowed down and examined Bab's mental state some more. Also, we get more hints about what exactly happened that she can walk again.

What I didn't: Tell us what happened! I want to know how she can walk!

Conclusion: Strong issue, gorgeous art, and plants seeds fora  future Dick/Babs romance (it's totally coming). Can't wait for Dick and Babs to run into each other again in Nightwing issue #4! 8.4/10 (B).