It is not unheard of for The Flash to join forces with his enemies. The Rogues, while largely opportunistic criminals, do live by a code and have fought more murderous supervillains with the Fastest Man Alive. Even so, Absolute Flash #3 finds Wally West turning an unexpected enemy into a surprise sidekick.
Written by Jeff Lemire, with art by Nick Robles, Absolute Flash #3 finds Wally West still on the run from the American government. Wally somehow acquired superspeed during an accident at the military base where his father was stationed. Since then, Wally has been fleeing from an elite task force armed with advanced weaponry. This task force includes the Absolute Universe versions of Captain Cold and Captain Boomerang, among other classic Rogues.
The pervious issue ended with this team unleashing their ultimate weapon. This weapon, designated Grodd, is a green monkey with an exposed brain, reminiscent of Mojo Jojo from PowerPuff Girls. However, this Grodd did not speak. Yet he had the amazing telepathic powers of his Earth-Prime counterpart. He was meant to pacify the Absolute Flash before he could get away.
Grodd joins Absolute Flash in going on the run
However, after connecting his mind with that of Wally West, Grodd had a revelation. He found a kindred spirit in the scared teenager, who could not control his new powers. Beyond sharing fond memories of Barry Allen (who was the only person who showed either of them any kindness) they were both traumatized by the loss of their mothers. This made Grodd determined to help the young Absolute Flash escape from their mutual tormentors.
The partnership between Grodd and Absolute Flash proves mutually beneficial. Grodd’s psychic powers allow him to calm Wally’s fears over what he’s become. This, in turn, gives Wally the clarity he needs to use his new powers to get them away from the Rogues. It will be interesting to see how the two fugitives continue to work together as they go on the run.
Absolute Flash #3 is now available at comic shops everywhere.
