A secret chapter of Gotham's past is revealed in "Bloodlines," and told from quite an unexpected point of view: that of a Talon's. Connected directly to the crisis in Batman #8, Nightwing enters into the "Night of the Owls" by responding to Alfred's distress call and rushing to City Hall to protect Mayor Hady. The entire issue switches back and forth between events that took place over a century ago, and those occurring the night the Talons strike; both equally compelling and thrilling.

Eddy Barrows illustrates the whole story with intricate and detailed traces; particularly worthy of mention are those of the flashback sequences. Drawing clothing and architecture for a period piece has to be extremely challenging, and Rod Reis' colors are the perfect complement to provide the right ambiance. With a double cliffhanger, this issue helps build the momentum of the New 52's first major crossover.