Whatever Happened to the Capped Crusader?

In the midst of Batman's death, the mini-storyline titled "Whatever Happened to the Capped Crusader?" is a two-part series featured in Batman #686 and Detective Comics #853. Essentially, this story tells the tale of Batman observing his own funeral.

What's interesting is who's in attendance for Batman's viewing, and the speeches given about Batman, each having their own take on how Batman died. The guest list of villains and heroes is pretty extensive. The majority of them being core characters such as Joker, Ivy, Riddler, Commissioner Gordon, Azrael, etc. The art work is fantastic, paying homage to several influential artists that've graced the lineage of Batman's history.

The story is a roller coaster of imations, combined with som head scratching moments. What I found to be the most touching in this two part series is Batman's encounter with his mother, Martha Wayne. Notice how I didn't say Bruce Wayne's encounter with his Mom? On full Batman garb, Batman is having a discussion with his Mom on the happier moments in his life.

Batman's death is being handled much more dynamically than I originally thought they were going to write it. Although it's inevitable that Bruce Wayne will return, they don't give you the impression that he will magically appear, and Bruce's absence is making GOtham City an interesting place to be. Especially for Nightwing!