The Riddler: Year One #4 was published on February 25, 2023. The issue reveals Edward Nashton's childhood and life prior to his discoveries at KTMJ, including his admiration for Thomas Wayne. The issue was written by Paul Dano and drawn by Stevan Subic.
"Chapter 4: There's No Place Like Home"[]
Synopsis[]
As a newborn, Edward Nashton is given to the Gotham Orphanage with nothing but his initials. It is heavily suggested his name was given by them. Throughout his life, Edward does not speak, instead communicating through other means the staff cannot understand. As a young child, the Orphanage learn that Edward's birth mother was committed to Arkham Asylum. He is visited by a priest to be informed of her death.
As he grows up, Edward begins idolizing Thomas Wayne, who regularly visits the orphanage with his family. However, the orphanage continues to fall into disrepair and neglect. One night, Edward is bitten by a rat whilst sleeping. After being treated, he is shown how to kill orphanage's caretaker. Meanwhile, he begins to show his intelligence, including a high understanding of chemistry and an interest in puzzles. However, he also becomes the target of bullying, with one incident leading to him being forced to kill a turtle. Eventually, Edward takes revenge on his lead tormenter by tricking him into creating a bomb incorrectly.
During one of his visits, Thomas Wayne stages a public announcement for both his intention to run for Mayor and the creation of the Gotham Renewal Program. Edward performs in the choir and meets Wayne during it, during which he displays his ability to speak for the first time. After Thomas takes an interest him, Edward begins to idolize the billionaire and his promises, despite warnings and ridicule from other children.
One night, Edward personally delivers his application for the Renewal Program to Wayne Tower. However, upon return, he learns that both Thomas and his wife Martha have been murdered. Shortly later, he learns his application has been rejected, causing him to have mental breakdown. Edward also begins to despise Thomas' son Bruce due to the perception that he is cared for and taking sympathies away from them, simply because he's rich.
After leaving the orphanage, Edward begins education at Gotham Community College. In his first week, he impresses his teacher by completing the first semester's work in that time. The teacher directs him to KTMJ and puts in a good word, helping him acquire his job there. In narration, Edward ponders his life prior to accepting the job and wonders whether he would have made different decisions if he'd know the truth.
Appearances[]
Characters[]
- Edward Nashton
- Thomas Wayne
- Martha Wayne
- Bruce Wayne
- Alfred Pennyworth
- Gotham Orphanage Caretaker (Only appearance)
- Edward Nashton's Bully (Only appearance)
Organizations[]
- Wayne Enterprises
- Gotham Renewal Program
- Gotham News 1
- Falcone Crime Syndicate (Behind the Scenes)
Locations[]
- Gotham City
- Gotham Orphanage
- Wayne Tower
- Gotham Community College
- KTMJ
- Monarch Theatre (Mentioned only)
Creatures[]
- Rats
- Turtle
Notes[]
- This is the only issue in The Riddler: Year One not to be set in the present day.