DC Revamps Deathstroke’s Major Setback, Offering the Villain a New Opportunity at Fatherhood

WARNING: May Contain Spoilers for Dark Knights of Steel: Allwinter #6! Within the expansive landscape of the DC Universe, Deathstroke stands out as a highly skilled mercenary, yet his record as a father is markedly dismal—perhaps even rivaling Batman in the competition for the ‘Worst Father’ label. Fortunately, an Elseworlds narrative unfolds a new opportunity for Slade Wilson to mend familial bonds, offering him a resolution that the mainstream canon has persistently denied.

In the realm of fan discussions surrounding Deathstroke, his tumultuous relationship with his children—Grant, Joey, and Rose Wilson—takes center stage. Each child serves as a poignant reminder of Slade’s failures as a parent: Grant perished while trying to follow in his father’s footsteps, Joey became mute after a harrowing kidnapping incident aimed at exacting revenge on Deathstroke, and Rose grew up largely abandoned, shielded from the tragic fates of her brothers.

Dark Knights of Steel Allwinter #6 Deathstroke and sons

In the narrative of Dark Knights of Steel: Allwinter #6, writers Jay Kristoff, Tirso Cons, and Wes Abbott reimagine Slade of Earth-118, presenting him a rare chance to rectify his past missteps with his children—an opportunity that the Deathstroke of Earth-Prime has never been afforded.

Deathstroke Achieves a Happy Ending with His Sons

Dark Knights of Steel Redefines the Outcomes for Grant and Joey Wilson

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The universe of Dark Knights of Steel weaves high fantasy into Deathstroke’s narrative while retaining the core theme of his significant fatherly failures. Notably, the fates of Grant and Joey differ starkly from mainstream continuity. Rather than experiencing Grant’s tragic demise and Joey’s muteness, both sons are resurrected as undead thralls, caught in a curse that endures throughout the Kingdom. This dark fate emerges after Slade inflicts fatal harm upon Nora Fries, the wife of sorcerer Victor “Mr. Freeze”Fries, prompting deep consequences that shroud the realm in an eternal winter as a consequence of her stasis.

The severity of this transformation amplifies Slade’s suffering, as he bears the burden of knowing his actions directly contributed to his sons’ anguish. However, a pivotal moment occurs during a climactic duel with Victor, when Alec “Swamp Thing”Holland successfully awakens Nora from her stasis—thus breaking the curse and revitalizing Slade’s sons alongside other cursed souls. This event marks an unprecedented happy ending for Deathstroke, starkly contrasting his mainstream storyline where Grant remains deceased and Joey’s bond with him is marred by resentment.

Dark Knights of Steel Cultivates an Unprecedented Father-Son Relationship

Slade Wilson’s Journey Concludes with Redemption

Dark Knights of Steel Allwinter #6 Deathstroke and sons 3

The conclusion of Dark Knights of Steel presents a version of Deathstroke who finally has the chance to rectify his past misdeeds—particularly concerning his children. This development is significant as recent stories have rarely afforded him the privilege of seeing both sons alive. In this alternate narrative, Grant and Joey’s return is marked by love as they embrace their father, a heartwarming contrast to their traditionally strained relationship.

Although Slade and Rose have experienced sporadic reconciliations in mainstream narratives, those moments typically succumb to interruptions that reignite their conflicts. Yet, the reconciliation depicted in Dark Knights of Steel seems more profound and enduring. Displaying his unconditional love for Rose, Slade offers his life in a dramatic exchange to protect her. Additionally, with his sons back in his life, the emotional trauma he once faced diminishes, allowing Deathstroke to engage with Rose from a place of newfound stability and hope.

Dark Knights of Steel: Allwinter #6 is now available from DC Comics!

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