Batman Annual #12
In "Slade's Demon," a pivotal moment in Jason's journey as a young hero-in-the-making unfolds when he’s drawn into a schoolyard dilemma involving stolen grades and hidden catwalks. Written by Robert Greenberger and illustrated with sharp, atmospheric detail by Norm Breyfogle, the story captures Jason’s quiet resolve as he grapples with choices that echo Batman’s philosophy—without ever wearing the cowl. The cover, a striking piece by Michael Wm Kaluta, sets the tone with a haunting, shadowed figure that hints at the unseen forces at play.
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Jason's teacher chides him for his lack of after school activities and Jason regrets not being able to do more. Three students ask him to help as a stagehand that afternoon. They show him how to navigate the school using the catwalks. They intend to change their grades in a locked office but run out of time and promise to meet later. Jason arrives early and sees them making the change. As he wonders what Batman would do, he remembers Bruce telling him, "let the criminals trip themselves up." The next day it's revealed the administration has caught the error and identified the perpetrators.
Plot details indexed by the Grand Comics Database (CC BY-SA).