Following the death of Batman, tensions rise as Green Arrow becomes increasingly ruthless in his quest for vengeance, even aspiring to join the notorious ranks of those who can claim, “I killed a Robin.”Oliver Queen’s descent into savagery is marked by his readiness to obliterate any obstacle in his path, exemplified by a chilling remark that underscores his moral decline.
In the latest narrative arc, the Green Arrow from Earth-63 eclipses even Batman in brutality as he pursues his objectives. Fans eagerly await the release of DC vs. Vampires: World War V #5, set to launch on December 11, 2024. Until then, a gripping four-page preview is available, showcasing intense action and pivotal moments featuring key characters like Oliver Queen, Damian Wayne (aka Robin), and Scott Free (Mister Miracle).
A pivotal moment is revealed in the preview: Oliver confronts Damian in a high-stakes standoff immediately following last issue’s cliffhanger, with Oliver drawing his bow against the vampiric Robin. Despite Damian’s attempts to ally with Oliver and combat the impending threat of Vampire Queen Barbara Gordon’s forces, the Emerald Archer makes his lethal intentions clear.
“No. We’re Just Supposed to Beat Them”: Green Arrow’s Deadly Decision Against Robin
Cover F 1:50 Card Stock Variant by Nikola Čižmešija for DC vs. Vampires: World War V #1 (2024)
From the outset, Green Arrow is unwavering in his intent to eliminate Robin, purely for being a vampire. However, he faces opposition from Black Canary, who advocates for Damian, reminding Oliver that Robin came seeking help. She challenges his morality with a profound query: “Isn’t the point of all this that we are better than our enemies?” Yet, rather than reconsidering, Oliver’s icy retort is chilling: “No. We’re just supposed to beat them.” Without second thoughts, he unleashes an arrow aimed straight at Damian, rendered all the more shocking by the proximity of the threat.
Fortunately for Damian, Swamp Thing intervenes just in time, diverting the arrow and saving the young hero. This moment emphasizes not only Oliver’s brutality but also his singular focus on winning at any cost—even against innocent foes. It starkly illustrates how far the Green Arrow has strayed from his traditional heroic values, showcasing his willingness to kill a child—not just any child, but one seeking aid, regardless of his vampiric nature. This disturbing portrayal signals a significant escalation in Oliver’s character arc.
Earth-63’s Green Arrow: A Darker Shade of Ruthlessness
Cover C Card Stock Variant by Daniel Bayliss for DC vs. Vampires: World War V #4 (2024)
Traditionally, much of the Justice League’s lore portrays Batman as the archetype of ruthlessness, especially highlighted in the iconic Tower of Babel storyline where he meticulously planned for every member of the League. With Batman’s demise in DC vs. Vampires #6, fans speculate about his potential actions during this vampire conflict. While discussions surrounding Batman’s morality often arise, it is unlikely he would resort to murdering a child—vampire or not—who comes in peace. Thus, the actions of the Green Arrow from Earth-63 starkly reposition him as the more brutal figure in this war.
Mark your calendars for the release of DC vs. Vampires: World War V #5 on December 11, 2025, a pivotal continuation of this dark saga from DC Comics!
Leave a Reply