Killing Two Birds with One Stone: Bailey Wayne and Selina Kyle in 'Batman 50'

Delving deep into the complex dynamic of Batman's relationships, especially his interaction with Catwoman, Batman 50 brings to light a myriad of questions surrounding the official couple's love story. Is it Batman and Catwoman or Bruce Wayne and Selina Kyle?

The Complicated Union

In Batman 50, the narrative culminates with the announcement that Batman and Catwoman are getting married, marking a significant event in the Batman storyline. This union represents a pivotal moment for both characters, symbolizing the culmination of their long-standing relationship.

However, the true story is revealed through the Dick Grayson prelude issue, where it is officially stated that the union is between Bruce Wayne and Selina Kyle. This decision poses a significant challenge, as Dick acknowledges that Bruce Wayne marrying a convicted thief, especially one suspected of mass murder, would raise numerous questions and potentially expose Bruce as Batman. Therefore, the official marriage must take place in their civilian identities.

Selina's Dilemma

Selina Kyle, as Catwoman, makes a difficult decision. She backs out of the union because she understands that marrying Bruce Wayne would not only hinder his ability to continue as Batman but would also compromise his identity as the Dark Knight. Selina believes that Bruce's happiness is paramount, and that his true self, Batman, flourishes when he is free to be the protector of Gotham. Thus, she chooses to call off the wedding to prevent any negative impact on her love.

Her reasoning is poignant: 'Marrying Bruce would make him a lesser man.' Selina is willing to sacrifice her own happiness for the greater good, recognizing that the essence of Bruce and his dual identity as Batman would be lost through their union.

The Larger Question

While the official couple is Bruce Wayne and Selina Kyle, the larger question remains: 'Will the Joker force Bruce Wayne to make him the best man?' This complication adds another layer of tension to the story. The presence of the Joker could disrupt the wedding and potentially expose Bruce's secret identity.

The Joker's involvement adds a parallel storyline, reflecting the complex nature of relationships and the unpredictable world of Gotham City. It’s a reminder that even what seems like a pure and romantic decision can be complicated by the ever-present threat of the city's supervillains.

Marrying someone can have unforeseen consequences, both for the individual and for the city they both hold dear. Bruce Wayne and Selina Kyle must navigate these challenges and decide what is best for both of them and for the people of Gotham.

Conclusion

Batman 50 provides a profound exploration of the complexities between Bruce Wayne and Selina Kyle. Their union, whether official or unofficial, is a testament to the depth of their relationship and the challenges they face to protect the city of Gotham. As the story unfolds, the readers are left to ponder the true meaning of love, sacrifice, and the dual life of Batman.

Batman 50 is a must-read for fans of the DC Universe, offering a fresh perspective on the enduring friendship and romance between Gotham's protector and his love.