The powerful Black Adam isn’t the most complimentary person in the world, but even he has to give credit where its due for one particular member of the Bat-Family: Damian Wayne. The non-canon series Injustice shows a DC Universe torn apart as a war destroys alliances, friendships and even families. While Batman’s unit can’t weather the struggle together, one member’s dedication to striking out on his own helps earn him the respect of the ruler of Kahndaq.
Spinning out of the video game of the same name, the comic book tie-in Injustice and its sequel are set in a world where Superman has become a despot after Joker takes the life of Lois Lane. As heroes take sides, cracks begin to show in even some of the most reliable bonds fans have come to know and love. Damian Wayne, for example, leaves his father’s side to join Superman’s faction, while also assuming the role of Nightwing after Dick Grayson’s death.
Damian’s decision to step out on his own would be carried over to the sequel, Injustice 2, by Tom Taylor, Mike. S Miller, J. Nanjan, and Wes Abbott. As Nightwing, he now works under his grandfather, Ra’s al Ghul, and journeys to Kahndaq in an attempt to draft Black Adam, who is in the middle of assisting an inexperienced Supergirl. Adam agrees to hear Damian out, telling Kara in private that while powerless, Damian is a very accomplished human. After spending the night showing Supergirl the hero ropes, Black Adam is convinced that Damian Wayne has worth and brings him onto their side. He’s selected not only for the good example of heroism he sets for Kara, but for the prowess in stealth and deception he shows.
Though he’s seen as a tough and intimidating figure, Black Adam isn’t exactly an unfair person. He knows potential when he witnesses it and as long as what he sees doesn’t interfere with his personal goals or the state of Kahndaq, he is capable of respect. A similar example from the main DC Universe has Black Adam giving compliments to the young hero and fellow Justice League member, Naomi. Adam is a leader first, and one thing a capable leader should do is encourage the potential of younger generations.
Black Adam’s acknowledgement of Damian’s skills is actually a humbling admission for the ruler, who is often considered arrogant. Adam struggles in assisting Supergirl to develop her powers and find her place in the world, but Damian’s down-to-Earth talks and field experience help Kara achieve a level of control she hasn’t had before. Black Adam sees that the young man can do things that he can’t, which is why recruiting Damian becomes a no-brainer to the leader of Kahndaq.
Black Adam sees that Damian Wayne has made something of himself and pays the young hero the highest compliment he can by allying with him.
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