(Image Source: DC Comics / Tony Fleecs)
Death is a constant companion to Slade Wilson. As Deathstroke, he is one of the DC Comics‘ most formidable hired killers. However, his new solo series, released as part of the DC Next Level initiative, begins with a shocking death that shakes the foundation of Slade’s world.
Written by Tony Fleecs, with art by Carmine Di Giandomenico, Deathstroke: The Terminator #1 finds Slade Wilson in a rare introspective mood. He’s thinking of how to best reach out to his estranged daughter, Rose. Slade being Slade, however, he’s writing a letter to her in his head, even as he’s executing his latest mission.
(Image Source: DC Comics / Carmine Di Giandomenico)
Slade is unaware of who his client is on this particular job. All he knows of his target is that he is a 46-year-old Caucasian male who is a witness in a lawsuit against business magnate Veronica Cale. The uncertain elements do not worry Deathstroke, though they do make him raise his rates. However, the whole operation turns out to be a trap.
Who dies in Deathstroke: The Terminator #1
When Deathstroke reaches the office allegedly holding his target, he finds something else entirely. His best friend, William Wintergreen, is bound to a chair and clearly dead. On his body is a note reading “Slade – I’m taking everything.” There is also a laptop, revealing that all of Slade’s personal bank accounts have been drained. Slade has just enough time to take this in before a SWAT team arrives to arrest him for Wintergreen’s murder.
(Image Source: DC Comics / Carmine Di Giandomenico)
In many ways, Wintergreen is to Deathstroke what Alfred Pennyworth is to Batman. While serving in the British Army, Wintergreen became fast friends with US Army Sergeant Slade Wilson on a joint US/UK operation. When Slade was sent on a suicide mission by a jealous commanding officer, Wintergreen disobeyed orders to save Wilson’s life.
Later, Wilson likewise defied orders to rescue Wintergreen from an enemy P.O.W. camp and was discharged. When Slade became the assassin Deathstroke, Wintergreen acted as his valet and agent. However, despite playing the part of a humble servant, Wintergreen remained a friend to Slade Wilson and was often the only thing humanizing the man called “The Terminator.”
(Image Source: DC Comics / Carmine Di Giandomenico)
Deathstroke: The Terminator #1 ends with Slade Wilson fighting what few police officers survive the bomb that was hidden under Wintergreen’s chair. It is unclear just who is responsible for Wintergreen’s death, save they must have considerable resources. It is clear, however, that what little humanity Slade Wilson had left died with his best friend.
Deathstroke: The Terminator #1 is now available at comic shops everywhere.
