Our focus on DC's extensive relaunch of the Batman franchise continues, but today we have something very interesting for you. There's a change coming to Batman and Robin , one that might upset some fans looking forward to Pete Tomasi and Patrick Gleason's run on the series. But as with any change, there is always a silver lining. What do we mean? Keep reading...

Batman and Robin #17, due to hit stores on November 24, will not feature Tomasi and Gleason's "Dark Knight, White Knight" story. Instead, Paul Cornell will be teaming with Scott McDaniel (Nightwing, Green Arrow) for a three-part arc that will mark Cornell's first step into the vastness that is Gotham City. B&R #17 Of course, that change no doubt prompts many questions. We spoke with Batman franchise editor Mike Marts about the selection of Cornell and delay of Tomasi and Gleason."Both Peter and Patrick were pulling double duty on Brightest Day and Batman and Robin - no easy task, even for dedicated and hard-working creators like these guys," Marts told us via e-mail. "So rather than have them running ragged on both titles we decided to make their lives a little easier by delaying the start of the run on Batman and Robin. This way, they can give priority to the important storylines they're taking care of now in Brightest Day, then recharge and refocus for their debut on B&R.And worry not, Bat-fans (and retailers), all content - as solicited - will be present when Tomasi and Gleason do debut this February in Batman and Robin #20.Naturally that then begs the question... why Paul Cornell? No doubt many familiar with Cornell's stellar run on Action Comics will be pleased, but what convinced Marts of this selection? "Paul was a very easy choice. In the relatively short time he's been working with DC, Paul has proven to be a huge asset - he writes fantastic stories and he always makes his deadlines," Marts told us. "Plus, he is a big fan of everything that's been going on in the Batbooks over the past several years, so e didn't even have to educate him on anything. We made the offer late one week and a full plot in early the next week!"What will Cornell's storyline entail? Funny you should ask - we decided to go straight to the source and find out. And be sure to check out the new cover (above) to Batman and Robin #17, by Guillem March!Click over to the second page for our exclusive first interview with Paul Cornell!