Under the oppressive watch of hovering Absorbascons, Oracle and Nightwing must face off against Hawkman and Hawkwoman in "Convergence: Nightwing/Oracle" #2. Gail Simone and Jan Duursema send Nightwing into battle on the streets of Gotham while Oracle calls upon a very special guest star to wing her way into the action as well.

Simone crafts a compelling adventure in "Convergence: Nightwing/Oracle" #2 by simply focusing on the core concept of "Convergence": characters from alternate realities fighting for survival. Readers of Simone's work from DC Comics (especially prior to 2001) will find Nightwing and Oracle familiar and comfortable while the extra-special guest star's connection to the tale will surely hit sentimental keys for those same readers. Hawkwoman and Hawkman are brave warriors bent on preservation and survival, which works magnificently for the characters, the conflict and the event overall.

Not stranger to the Hawks, artist Jan Duursema reminds readers just how amazing the Thanagarian couple can look, especially when outfitted with feathered wings and primal weaponry. I thoroughly enjoyed Duursema's work in "Hawkman" volume three and would be thrilled if she made enough of an impact with this series to be considered the next time Hawkwoman and Hawkman take flight. Duursema's work is filled with classic comic book decisions, from stunning, dynamic solo spotlights to smooth choreography and elegantly detailed outfits and weapons. Inker Sean Parsons' work melts into Duursema's drawings, spotting rich shadows and adding texture to the art. Colorist Wes Dzioba keeps the palette earthy and rich, save for Hawkwoman and Oracle's bright red hair and Nightwing's blue highlights. Letterer Carlos M. Mangual stays within the palette as well, with some oranges and yellows piercing through to punctuate the adventure. Mangual keeps the caption boxes for Nightwing and Oracle distinct, helping define characters and their actions while keeping the action flowing.

"Convergence: Nightwing/Oracle" #2 has fun with the concepts instituted by the "Convergence" event but doesn't tie itself too tightly to the requirements of the crossover. Simone and Duursema focus on the characters and amplify their appeal through that singular focus, making a strong case for more action from the pairings in this comic book. The end of the issue leaves the story more open than I expected to find in a "fight to the finish" battle, but this is comics and these comics do feature beloved characters. What happens to the couples in this comic truly remains to be seen but, for now, Simone, Duursema, Parsons, Dzioba and Mangual give readers plenty to enjoy.