Daniel Knox
Prepare for an epic showdown as Ra’s Al Ghul and Vandal Savage, two long-lived villains, finally cross paths with the legendary Batman. These immortals have never officially connected before, but that’s all about to change.
In a thrilling preview of Batman #138, brought to life by the talented team of Chip Zdarsky, Jorge Jimenez, and Tomeu Morey, it is revealed that Ra’s Al Ghul and Vandal Savage share a common power source. The very meteor that granted Savage immortality is unveiled as one of many that decayed to create the infamous Lazarus Pits used by Ra’s Al Ghul.
Vandal Savage, the million-year-old caveman turned immortal, made his first appearance in Green Lantern #10 back in 1943. Throughout the years, he has been a relentless adversary of both the Justice Society and Justice League, with his age now estimated at fifty thousand years old.
On the other hand, Ra’s Al Ghul, the younger of the two in the DC Universe, debuted in Batman #232 in 1971. As the founder of the League of Assassins, Ra’s achieved extended life through the use of alchemical pools known as the Lazarus Pits. These miraculous pits possess the power to heal the sick and even resurrect the dead, but their repeated use comes at a cost—insanity.
While Ra’s immortality is limited by the madness induced by the Lazarus Pits, Vandal Savage enjoys accelerated healing and near invincibility, making him nearly immortal. However, a surprising twist awaits as Ra’s Al Ghul allows Savage to utilize a Lazarus Pit, suggesting that Savage’s immortality may be fading. Ra’s cryptically warns that the Lazarus Pit might not be enough to save him, hinting at Savage’s declining state. This newfound vulnerability could explain Savage’s sudden interest in Gotham City and his involvement in the Gotham War event.
Mark your calendars for the highly anticipated release of Batman #138 on October 3rd, 2023.
