Absolute Cassandra Cain: The Shadow's Hand # 1 Cover A First Printing 2026 BN

Absolute Cassandra Cain: The Shadow's Hand #1 is a 40-page, one-shot comic book published by DC Comics. Written by Che Grayson with art by Matías Bergara and Mirka Andolfo, this issue serves as a spin-off bridging the gap between issues #3 and #4 of the Absolute Catwoman series. It explores the dark, altered origin story of Cassandra Cain within DC’s Absolute Universe.

Core Plot & Origin

In this alternative continuity, the history of the League of Assassins and Cassandra's lineage is radically rewritten:

• The Joker's Slaughter: Years ago, the Absolute Universe version of The Joker traveled the globe to amass power. He trained extensively with the League of Assassins. Once he extracted all of their knowledge, he ruthlessly slaughtered the entire organization.
• Survival & Heritage: Emerging from the ashes of the League's destruction were Lady Shiva and her daughter, Cassandra Cain. Rather than being raised and broken by her mainstream continuity father (David Cain), Cassandra grows up under Shiva's direct influence from the wreckage of the League.
• The Catwoman Connection: The one-shot details how Cassandra rises to become the Absolute Universe’s most formidable assassin and reveals how her bloody path directly intertwines with Gotham's premier thief, Selina Kyle (Catwoman).
• Release Date: September 9, 2026