Ok, so I'm thinking about one large thread for the main title to constantly discuss what's going on in it. The tie-ins and minis can be discussed seperately but at the least we can talk about the main book here. And I appologize for the lateness, but I've been away from books for a few weeks and just grabbed #2, and realized we had no thread for #1.
Ok, so as the tag line clained, "The Dead Shall Rise" and it definitely delivered on that promise!!!
Issue 1 starts off with Black Hand having dug up the grave of Bruce Wayne, and using his skull as some kind of homing device throughout the book, and also as a way to deliver Black Rings as we'll find out later.
People of Earth are celebrating the anniversary of Superman's death as a new holiday honoring the fallen heroes and those heroes were unable to save through their battles. Everyone's at verious graves, the old JLI team at Ted Kord's grave, the new Firestorm and Prof. Stein at Ronnie Raymond's grave, and the Titans honoring their legion of fallen.
Tempest and Mera are arguing over bring Arthur's body to Atlantis as Tempest has now taken over the thrown (see Titans #15), which comes into play next issue.
Hal and Barry reveal to us that under the Hall of Justice, the JLA has a morgue for all of the villains who have died so they can keep an eye on their remains, as preventative measures. Blunt foreshadowing, of course. Hal shows Barry all those who have died since he passed in the Crisis. More foreshadowing of who'll return.
Hawkman and Hawkgirl argue over Carter ignoring Ray Palmer while the Guardians witness nearly all of the colored Corps begin to war, when Sayd, the Black Guardian finally attacks the others as Rings seek out the dead across the universe.
Here there be Spoilers:
It appears that Rings seek out up to all of the following: Martian Manhunter, Firestorm, Jade, Al Pratt, Roscoe Dillon (The Top), Captain Boomerang, the Freedom Fighters who passed away during Infinite Crisis, Aquaman, and every Green Lantern who has fallen in battle, who then begin attacking the Corps on Oa, as J'onn attacks Hal and Barry at the Hall.
We then see a Black Lantern spying on Hawkman and Hawkgirl, and it's eyes, it becomes apparent that Black Lanterns see in terms of the emotional spectrum, as the Hawks are colored with Rage, and as Kendra begins to reveal she loves Carter, she turns to Love (Violet). Finally, the two are attacked, and both killed by Black Lanterns Ralph and Sue Dibny. They pull out the Hawk's hearts, which begin charging their rings, but it seems all Black Lantern rings are charged as one, with each kill increasing the overall charge.
The Hawks are then offered rings by Black Hand
End Issue 1
Blackest Night **SPOILERS**
Moderator: Tragic Angelus
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Tragic Angelus
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Tragic Angelus
- Posts: 3397
- Joined: Sun Feb 15, 2009 4:44 pm
- Location: Indiana
Issue 2:
Ray Palmer is still trying to reach Carter, who eventually picks up the phone as a Black Lantern and invites Ray over through the phone line.
Commissioner Gordon and Oracle are waiting by the Bat Signal, when suddenly Hal Jordan crashes down on it (Hal and Barry battle J'onn in Green Lantern #44, filling in between issue 1 and 2 of BN)
Tempest and Mera are still discussing as she reveals she'll relent to Garth, and move Aquaman's body, when suddenly the Black Lantern Aquaman attacks, killing an Atlantean Guard and charging his ring, bringing the total to only 2.63%.
We then see Boston Brand, aka Deadman over his grave, hearing the Black Lantern Oath ring out and begging for his body not to rise, but it does and it's unknown what or where his spirit is subjected to.
As more Rings fall to earth, Don Hall, Dove, is called, but the rings then state that "Don Hall of Earth at Peace" and he cannot be brought back. His brother Hank, Hawk, rises though.
As Tempest and Mera battle BL Aquaman, Black Lantern Dolphin and Aquagirl rise as well, fighting over and against Tempest.
Mystical characters Spectre, Blue Devil, Phantom Stranger, and Zatanna gather over Deadman's grave, discussing his disappearence. Spectre claims he cannot detect him anywhere, when suddenly Black Lantern Pariah, from the original Crisis, appears and another Black Lantern is called forth.
Major Spoilers:
Crispus Allen is called as a Black Lantern, and the force is too irresistable. In a beautiful two page spread, the Spectre himself becomes a Black Lantern, and claims that he wants Hal Jordan back.
As Mera and Tempest battle the three zombies, Tempest finally succumbs and has his heart taken out by Aquagirl, and becomes a Black Lantern as well, forcing Mera to flee.
Hal and Barry believe they've finally stopped J'onn, only to learn that not even fire can kill him. As the smoke clears, the two are about to be attacked by the Black Lantern Justice League of Martian Manhunter, Hawkman, Hawkgirl, Firestorm, Elongated Man, and Sue Dibny.
End issue 2.
Side Note: I scored over the final page of the BL JLA, but I cannot tell if Ray Palmer ws among them, and we never did go back to the scene where he's about to travel the phone lines to Zombie Carter. If anyone else saw him, please let me know, otherwise I assume we'll get that scene in a future issue.
So far, I'm in love with this event. It's lived up to ALL of the hype, and we've had some major deaths actually occur, rather than just side characters who don't matter. Reis' artwork is phenominal, and really reminds me of Morales' work on Identity Crisis in a few instances, which I loved. The story is frightening, and really sucks you in as you read it. I'm hooked on ever page.
Ray Palmer is still trying to reach Carter, who eventually picks up the phone as a Black Lantern and invites Ray over through the phone line.
Commissioner Gordon and Oracle are waiting by the Bat Signal, when suddenly Hal Jordan crashes down on it (Hal and Barry battle J'onn in Green Lantern #44, filling in between issue 1 and 2 of BN)
Tempest and Mera are still discussing as she reveals she'll relent to Garth, and move Aquaman's body, when suddenly the Black Lantern Aquaman attacks, killing an Atlantean Guard and charging his ring, bringing the total to only 2.63%.
We then see Boston Brand, aka Deadman over his grave, hearing the Black Lantern Oath ring out and begging for his body not to rise, but it does and it's unknown what or where his spirit is subjected to.
As more Rings fall to earth, Don Hall, Dove, is called, but the rings then state that "Don Hall of Earth at Peace" and he cannot be brought back. His brother Hank, Hawk, rises though.
As Tempest and Mera battle BL Aquaman, Black Lantern Dolphin and Aquagirl rise as well, fighting over and against Tempest.
Mystical characters Spectre, Blue Devil, Phantom Stranger, and Zatanna gather over Deadman's grave, discussing his disappearence. Spectre claims he cannot detect him anywhere, when suddenly Black Lantern Pariah, from the original Crisis, appears and another Black Lantern is called forth.
Major Spoilers:
Crispus Allen is called as a Black Lantern, and the force is too irresistable. In a beautiful two page spread, the Spectre himself becomes a Black Lantern, and claims that he wants Hal Jordan back.
As Mera and Tempest battle the three zombies, Tempest finally succumbs and has his heart taken out by Aquagirl, and becomes a Black Lantern as well, forcing Mera to flee.
Hal and Barry believe they've finally stopped J'onn, only to learn that not even fire can kill him. As the smoke clears, the two are about to be attacked by the Black Lantern Justice League of Martian Manhunter, Hawkman, Hawkgirl, Firestorm, Elongated Man, and Sue Dibny.
End issue 2.
Side Note: I scored over the final page of the BL JLA, but I cannot tell if Ray Palmer ws among them, and we never did go back to the scene where he's about to travel the phone lines to Zombie Carter. If anyone else saw him, please let me know, otherwise I assume we'll get that scene in a future issue.
So far, I'm in love with this event. It's lived up to ALL of the hype, and we've had some major deaths actually occur, rather than just side characters who don't matter. Reis' artwork is phenominal, and really reminds me of Morales' work on Identity Crisis in a few instances, which I loved. The story is frightening, and really sucks you in as you read it. I'm hooked on ever page.
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Mr Wallstreet
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The event sounds, surprisingly cohesive. I was wondering when it would jump off to a stupid tie-in issue where something major would happen.
So far everything sounds really great. Shocked to hear about Hawkman and Hawkgirl. I really hope DC doesn't go on a massive murdering spree like they did during IC. Back then they tried to go for a large body count made up mostly of C & D listers as a way to try and impress the readership and it didn't work back then so I'm hoping they don't do it again. I'm trying to locate the article but in one of Didio's recent interview's on newsarama he mentioned the mistake they made of killing a lot of heroes during earlier events and even went so far as to admit it was a mistake so maybe they won't repeat a past failure.
Deadman & Spectre's storylines sound very interesting, especially Deadman given that he's roaming about ethereally while his hunk of flesh is out and about. I can't wait to see what Crispus Allen's body does.
I suspect that since Batman's not really dead, his body won't really arise, so the Black Lanterns'll use some kind of mock-up to fool everyone into thinking he is alive and when that charade is exposed, everyone will realize he's not dead. Either that or one of the other former heroes/current Black Lanterns telling the heroes.
Thanks for the update Trag. Keep em coming
So far everything sounds really great. Shocked to hear about Hawkman and Hawkgirl. I really hope DC doesn't go on a massive murdering spree like they did during IC. Back then they tried to go for a large body count made up mostly of C & D listers as a way to try and impress the readership and it didn't work back then so I'm hoping they don't do it again. I'm trying to locate the article but in one of Didio's recent interview's on newsarama he mentioned the mistake they made of killing a lot of heroes during earlier events and even went so far as to admit it was a mistake so maybe they won't repeat a past failure.
Deadman & Spectre's storylines sound very interesting, especially Deadman given that he's roaming about ethereally while his hunk of flesh is out and about. I can't wait to see what Crispus Allen's body does.
I suspect that since Batman's not really dead, his body won't really arise, so the Black Lanterns'll use some kind of mock-up to fool everyone into thinking he is alive and when that charade is exposed, everyone will realize he's not dead. Either that or one of the other former heroes/current Black Lanterns telling the heroes.
Thanks for the update Trag. Keep em coming
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Tragic Angelus
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A few things:
As far as deaths go, it seems to be less C & D, and more B and A so far. I'm sure we'll hit all around the alphabet in terms of death, but yea, where it's usually C-D, and one A or B like in IC (Pantha, Wildabeast, Pyscho Pirate, then Superboy and Earth 2 Superman), but to start with the Hawks and then Tempest, who's just been brought up in ranks by Johns and co.
Deadman is prominent in the Blackest Night: Batman mini series from what I can gather, tho my shop didn't save me a copy this week (I'll get one in a week or so I hear. Not happy about it). He's there, and I'm wondering what the deal will be in terms of his soul and his body now having two different agendas. My original assumption would be that he would hop in his body and be a sort of undercover agent for the heroes, but who knows if he will or can.
Specre's deall.. that's insane since the Spirit of Vengence is trapped in Allen's body as well. The Corps having control of that is a very, very deadly thing in my eyes.
Batman.. I really do not think we'll see him as a Black Lantern. Black Hand is using his Head as a sort of weapon/ritual item, and Johns hinted that it's got a lot more to do later on. I don't think we'll see Black Lantern Batman, and part of me wonders if it's a specific choice on DC's part, and being put in the story as a possible fear the enemies have of Batman actually being able to fight their influence, even from 'beyond the grave'.
we'll see what happens, and I'll keep updates coming. I'll be bookless for another three weeks as I get ready for a trip, and school starts up, but once I catch up again, I'll launch threads for each 3 issue tie in series that will have come out.
As far as deaths go, it seems to be less C & D, and more B and A so far. I'm sure we'll hit all around the alphabet in terms of death, but yea, where it's usually C-D, and one A or B like in IC (Pantha, Wildabeast, Pyscho Pirate, then Superboy and Earth 2 Superman), but to start with the Hawks and then Tempest, who's just been brought up in ranks by Johns and co.
Deadman is prominent in the Blackest Night: Batman mini series from what I can gather, tho my shop didn't save me a copy this week (I'll get one in a week or so I hear. Not happy about it). He's there, and I'm wondering what the deal will be in terms of his soul and his body now having two different agendas. My original assumption would be that he would hop in his body and be a sort of undercover agent for the heroes, but who knows if he will or can.
Specre's deall.. that's insane since the Spirit of Vengence is trapped in Allen's body as well. The Corps having control of that is a very, very deadly thing in my eyes.
Batman.. I really do not think we'll see him as a Black Lantern. Black Hand is using his Head as a sort of weapon/ritual item, and Johns hinted that it's got a lot more to do later on. I don't think we'll see Black Lantern Batman, and part of me wonders if it's a specific choice on DC's part, and being put in the story as a possible fear the enemies have of Batman actually being able to fight their influence, even from 'beyond the grave'.
we'll see what happens, and I'll keep updates coming. I'll be bookless for another three weeks as I get ready for a trip, and school starts up, but once I catch up again, I'll launch threads for each 3 issue tie in series that will have come out.
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Tragic Angelus
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- Location: Indiana
Much agreed!! I'm so happy to have it currently live up to all the hype that's been built up over the past few years! Johns has delivered major suprises and a very cohesive and engaging story in just two issues, and has a ton of build up to something huge and a already we have things I can't wait to see the pay off for. And with 8 issues over 6 for this, I'm sure it'll majorly deliver!!
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Tragic Angelus
- Posts: 3397
- Joined: Sun Feb 15, 2009 4:44 pm
- Location: Indiana
Ok, like with before this is gonna be a blow by blow detail so expect Spoilers and no holding back. You've been warned
Blackest Nigh #3
We open with the current Firestorm matrix, currently split, discussing their future in Jason's dorm room. He let's Gen know that he's not ready to be married, letting her and us know that he can read some of her thoughts when they're mixed as Firestorm due to how strong and important they are to her. As the two get into it, she mentions maybe they shouldn't be Firestorm anymore when the JLA caller goes off.
Cut to a fantastically rendered battle between Hal and Barry and the Zombie League from the end of last issue. The Hawks are battering Hal while Firestorm and Elongated Man agrue and chase after Barry, with J'onn in pursuit. As Elongated man tries playing on Barry's emotions, he actually encites Rage from him since Barry's only just learned off his and Sue's deaths.
Firestorm comments on how Barry is a lot like Prof. Stein, and says that with an empty spot in his matrix, he would like to add Barry into it. But when he reaches for his heart, Barry vibrates out and grabs Firestorm's hand and attempts to pull of the ring.
And that causes a severe reaction. In doing so, the ring pulls off, along with black roots as Barry calls them, then reattaches and lets us know that power levels are up to 50.32%. As Hal and Barry yell back and forth about ideas, and how they have none, a small voice states that they're "all in the dark"
We then get a great shot of a now growing, and beaten, Ray Palmer coming out of Hawkman's black ring and punching Hawkman back. We learn that he decided to hide in the ring to learn about it and escape after he was attacked by the Hawks once he reached the other end of the phoneline. He states that the ring has a structure like bone or dark matter channeling some energy to somewhere else. So they're very different from other ring. They send energy to the wielder, and Black Rings send it back to the battery (I'm assuming). Ray also says that his best friend is dead, and this time he doesn't think they're coming back.
We see Firestorm (the live one. This might get complicated later on) at the Hall of Justice. He mentions that the code was sent on Aquaman's authority, and Gen mentions that he's dead, and just the the two catch a number of video feeds showing dead lanterns rising up, including:
JSA battle in Manhattan
A dead lantern in Kahndaq (I'm assuming Osiris)
The Spectre as a Black Lantern
The shattered, lit Bat Signal in Gotham
a BL riot at Iron Heights Prison
Rocket Red's in Moscow battling a BL Rocket Red
Decimated Smallville
Half a dozen Black Lanterns decending on Titans Tower in San Francisco
And dozens of dead soldiers decending on the White House, calling out that "I Have a Name" with the only news report saying someone is coming out of the tomb of the unkown (this was my personal favorite)
As the screens go blank, the two find who's there with them, as Mera attacks, only to learn Jason is the new Firestorm, and that she sent the signal. She informs Jason and Gen to calm down and supress emotion, as the BL's feed off of it, and also can track others simply by them giving emotions off, and her supression of emotion allowed her to escape.
As Hal, Barry and Ray try to escape, we see Elongated man trap Ray and Barry, and he hones in on Ray, finding him colored with Compassion, feeling terrible for what happened to Sue and even to Jean, as Sue reaches for his heart.
Just then, Indigo 1, leader of the Indigo tribe suddenly appears as if from no where and knocks Sue back. She, and another Indigo lantern manage to repell the Dead League, and she channels Hal's Willpower and ring energy to destroying and severing the connection of Sue and Ralph to the Black Lantern battery, effectively destroying the two Black Lanterns (for as far as we can tell). They then teleport with Hal, Barry and Ray to the Hall, meeting Jason and Mera.
Indigo finally speaks in a non-tribal language. She informs Ray that he is filled with empathy, and seemingly would offer him to join the Indigo tribe before the questioning begins. We learn the Indigo tribe discards individualism, and she recaps for us the various leaders of the Corps, history of Light wars, and how each 'homeworld' is under siege in a vertical double page spread that's done very well, and quickly brings those unfamiliar with the last few years up to speed. We also learn that Indigo suspects they're invading Earth due to it's ability to repell various threats across the galaxy, and that the Black Lanterns are not the invaders, but rather everyone else is, except that they represent Goodness and Life.
Barry suggest that they're not really the dead, due to their lack of emotions (Ralph having no reaction to Sue being burned by Indigo), and Ray states they may be being worn by the Rings, rather than the other way around. Indigo states that those who rise do so to elicit an emotional response because they feed off of them, similar to what Mera said earlier. And she states that Green Light with another version of light will neutralize the Black Rings and leave them susceptable to damage. And the more shades of light, the stronger the the light against the black. "The Seven Corps can replicate the white light of creation. Together we will be capable of locating and destroying the source of the Black Rings." (White Lanters sound damn possible now)
She says they came to Hal specifically because he has more personal connections than anyone else to the most powerful members of the remaining Corps. Hal learns that Carol is a Star Sapphire again, and he demands to go there first, causing him and Barry to somewhat argue.
Barry condemns Hal for still flying off like it's his first day on Earth and not thinking about everyone else and all the other things that will happen if he leaves. Hal similarly remarks to Barry that he's still living every day like it's his last and going to fast since he got back, and not slowing down in order to catch up and be who he was. The two agree to match up and figure out a plan.
When the remaining Black Lantern Leaguers bust in. The Indigo Lanterns teleport out, with Hal, as the two Firestorms go head to head. Ronnie splits Jason and Gen, and grabs Gen by the throat. Jason rushes over to her, and when he touches Ronnie, he gets similar flashes that Deadman got in BN: Batman when leaping into his resurrected body, only Jason is pulled INTO Black Lantern Firestorm, and cannot get back out. We see Gen colored in Fear, and learn Jason is seeing exactly what Ronnie does now.
Ronnie plays with both simultaneously, threatening Gen and asking Jason why he keeps her since he is apparently the brains of the opperation. Ronnie demands a simple compound from Jason's mind, but Jason resists, and when Ronnie suggests salt, it instantly comes to Jason's mind, and he can't hide it from Ronnie.
All the while, Gen is screaming for Jason, trying to find him. She starts screaming in pain.
Jason is yelling towards her about how he wants a future and doesn't want to lose her.
Ronnie tells her she'll never have a future with her boyfriend.
We see Gen, slowly converting and changing to somethingg.
And as Jason, crying and telling her he loves her looks on, Ronnie pulls her heart from her now salt composed body.
Power levels at 56.56%. And the Hall is rushed with Black Rings. Jason is fueling Ronnie with emotions. And the Black Rings find their new homes.
John Monroe of Earth aka (if you know, fill me in. I can't find this one)
Arthur Light of Earth aka Dr. Light
Maxwell Lord of Earth
Crystal Frost of Earth aka Killer Frost
John Ravenhair of Earth
Alexander Luthor of Earth-3
Along with numerous others in the JLA vault.
Rise.
Next Issue: Power Levels: 100%
Overall, very fun and great battle scenes and revealing plot, and a very emotional scene with Firestorm. I'm still loving each issue, and Johns and Reis have yet to fail in the promises they've given for this book.
Blackest Nigh #3
We open with the current Firestorm matrix, currently split, discussing their future in Jason's dorm room. He let's Gen know that he's not ready to be married, letting her and us know that he can read some of her thoughts when they're mixed as Firestorm due to how strong and important they are to her. As the two get into it, she mentions maybe they shouldn't be Firestorm anymore when the JLA caller goes off.
Cut to a fantastically rendered battle between Hal and Barry and the Zombie League from the end of last issue. The Hawks are battering Hal while Firestorm and Elongated Man agrue and chase after Barry, with J'onn in pursuit. As Elongated man tries playing on Barry's emotions, he actually encites Rage from him since Barry's only just learned off his and Sue's deaths.
Firestorm comments on how Barry is a lot like Prof. Stein, and says that with an empty spot in his matrix, he would like to add Barry into it. But when he reaches for his heart, Barry vibrates out and grabs Firestorm's hand and attempts to pull of the ring.
And that causes a severe reaction. In doing so, the ring pulls off, along with black roots as Barry calls them, then reattaches and lets us know that power levels are up to 50.32%. As Hal and Barry yell back and forth about ideas, and how they have none, a small voice states that they're "all in the dark"
We then get a great shot of a now growing, and beaten, Ray Palmer coming out of Hawkman's black ring and punching Hawkman back. We learn that he decided to hide in the ring to learn about it and escape after he was attacked by the Hawks once he reached the other end of the phoneline. He states that the ring has a structure like bone or dark matter channeling some energy to somewhere else. So they're very different from other ring. They send energy to the wielder, and Black Rings send it back to the battery (I'm assuming). Ray also says that his best friend is dead, and this time he doesn't think they're coming back.
We see Firestorm (the live one. This might get complicated later on) at the Hall of Justice. He mentions that the code was sent on Aquaman's authority, and Gen mentions that he's dead, and just the the two catch a number of video feeds showing dead lanterns rising up, including:
JSA battle in Manhattan
A dead lantern in Kahndaq (I'm assuming Osiris)
The Spectre as a Black Lantern
The shattered, lit Bat Signal in Gotham
a BL riot at Iron Heights Prison
Rocket Red's in Moscow battling a BL Rocket Red
Decimated Smallville
Half a dozen Black Lanterns decending on Titans Tower in San Francisco
And dozens of dead soldiers decending on the White House, calling out that "I Have a Name" with the only news report saying someone is coming out of the tomb of the unkown (this was my personal favorite)
As the screens go blank, the two find who's there with them, as Mera attacks, only to learn Jason is the new Firestorm, and that she sent the signal. She informs Jason and Gen to calm down and supress emotion, as the BL's feed off of it, and also can track others simply by them giving emotions off, and her supression of emotion allowed her to escape.
As Hal, Barry and Ray try to escape, we see Elongated man trap Ray and Barry, and he hones in on Ray, finding him colored with Compassion, feeling terrible for what happened to Sue and even to Jean, as Sue reaches for his heart.
Just then, Indigo 1, leader of the Indigo tribe suddenly appears as if from no where and knocks Sue back. She, and another Indigo lantern manage to repell the Dead League, and she channels Hal's Willpower and ring energy to destroying and severing the connection of Sue and Ralph to the Black Lantern battery, effectively destroying the two Black Lanterns (for as far as we can tell). They then teleport with Hal, Barry and Ray to the Hall, meeting Jason and Mera.
Indigo finally speaks in a non-tribal language. She informs Ray that he is filled with empathy, and seemingly would offer him to join the Indigo tribe before the questioning begins. We learn the Indigo tribe discards individualism, and she recaps for us the various leaders of the Corps, history of Light wars, and how each 'homeworld' is under siege in a vertical double page spread that's done very well, and quickly brings those unfamiliar with the last few years up to speed. We also learn that Indigo suspects they're invading Earth due to it's ability to repell various threats across the galaxy, and that the Black Lanterns are not the invaders, but rather everyone else is, except that they represent Goodness and Life.
Barry suggest that they're not really the dead, due to their lack of emotions (Ralph having no reaction to Sue being burned by Indigo), and Ray states they may be being worn by the Rings, rather than the other way around. Indigo states that those who rise do so to elicit an emotional response because they feed off of them, similar to what Mera said earlier. And she states that Green Light with another version of light will neutralize the Black Rings and leave them susceptable to damage. And the more shades of light, the stronger the the light against the black. "The Seven Corps can replicate the white light of creation. Together we will be capable of locating and destroying the source of the Black Rings." (White Lanters sound damn possible now)
She says they came to Hal specifically because he has more personal connections than anyone else to the most powerful members of the remaining Corps. Hal learns that Carol is a Star Sapphire again, and he demands to go there first, causing him and Barry to somewhat argue.
Barry condemns Hal for still flying off like it's his first day on Earth and not thinking about everyone else and all the other things that will happen if he leaves. Hal similarly remarks to Barry that he's still living every day like it's his last and going to fast since he got back, and not slowing down in order to catch up and be who he was. The two agree to match up and figure out a plan.
When the remaining Black Lantern Leaguers bust in. The Indigo Lanterns teleport out, with Hal, as the two Firestorms go head to head. Ronnie splits Jason and Gen, and grabs Gen by the throat. Jason rushes over to her, and when he touches Ronnie, he gets similar flashes that Deadman got in BN: Batman when leaping into his resurrected body, only Jason is pulled INTO Black Lantern Firestorm, and cannot get back out. We see Gen colored in Fear, and learn Jason is seeing exactly what Ronnie does now.
Ronnie plays with both simultaneously, threatening Gen and asking Jason why he keeps her since he is apparently the brains of the opperation. Ronnie demands a simple compound from Jason's mind, but Jason resists, and when Ronnie suggests salt, it instantly comes to Jason's mind, and he can't hide it from Ronnie.
All the while, Gen is screaming for Jason, trying to find him. She starts screaming in pain.
Jason is yelling towards her about how he wants a future and doesn't want to lose her.
Ronnie tells her she'll never have a future with her boyfriend.
We see Gen, slowly converting and changing to somethingg.
And as Jason, crying and telling her he loves her looks on, Ronnie pulls her heart from her now salt composed body.
Power levels at 56.56%. And the Hall is rushed with Black Rings. Jason is fueling Ronnie with emotions. And the Black Rings find their new homes.
John Monroe of Earth aka (if you know, fill me in. I can't find this one)
Arthur Light of Earth aka Dr. Light
Maxwell Lord of Earth
Crystal Frost of Earth aka Killer Frost
John Ravenhair of Earth
Alexander Luthor of Earth-3
Along with numerous others in the JLA vault.
Rise.
Next Issue: Power Levels: 100%
Overall, very fun and great battle scenes and revealing plot, and a very emotional scene with Firestorm. I'm still loving each issue, and Johns and Reis have yet to fail in the promises they've given for this book.
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Tragic Angelus
- Posts: 3397
- Joined: Sun Feb 15, 2009 4:44 pm
- Location: Indiana
Issue #4:
We open with Flash, Atom, and Mera fighting off some Black Lantern Leaguers, trying to figure out why Indigo took Hal, where Barry realizes that they have to hold down the fort so to speak while the Lanterns deal with offworld issues. When he asks where Firestorm is, he turns to find a see of now risen Black Lantern villains from the League Vaults. Among them are Copperhead, Dr. Light, Maxwell Lord, and about a dozen other villains I can't readily recognize (it's hard at times since they alter the costumes, and I don't no a lot of B/C-list DC villains), all being lead by BL Firestorm.
As BL Firestorm chases Barry down, Jason manages to gain control, and lets them know that Ronnie killed Gen, and the voice in the BL heads is calling for Barry and that he needs to run before Ronnie takes control again, and Black Lantern Aquaman arrives as well. But Atom makes a quick rump to a phone, dials 9-1-1, and grabs Mera and Barry after stating he's been messing with his belt and launches all 3 into the phone lines, where they bust out in a call center on the other line.
Meanwhile, Scarecrow is surrounded by Fear colored citizens in Gotham, while Black Lantern Azrael, murdering citizens who aren't worthy of a savior in his eyes. Scarecrow isn't afraid of him though, stating he's used his fear gas on himself one too many times, and the only thing that scares him now is the Batman.
Lex Luthor is talking to Calculator, who's confirming the Dead are Rising with vendettas, and stating how 'we' need to team up for protection, meaning the villains again. Lex, who has a huge viewscreen of deceased people up (and a battlesuit nearby, which I'm sure will play out later) states that it's every man for himself because he's not to be lumped in with the others and he's killed far more people than anyone else so he has his own problems. All the while he's securing various sub labs and levesl to his base.
Back to the Heroes at 9-1-1 HQ, where call workers are asking what to do with these emergencies, Barry says to tell them to stay indoors and calm and the Justice League is on it. Atom says that the League isn't on anything yet and Mera claims they need Wonder Woman and Superman.
In a great panel, Barry looks at both of them and says that "Right now, You Two ARE Superman and Wonder Woman.
He then assures Mera that she's needed because she has information and exeperience with them now, and he tells Ray tha the needs to Grow the Hell up and be the Atom again even after all he's gone through. And while they both might feel like outsiders now, he reminds them that's what makes up the League. And how Hal is the only one who was never bothered by fitting in, and they need to start acting more like Hal in this situation (where he states neither better ever tell Hal he said that, which I laughed a bit at).
So the plan is for Atom and Mera to get Alan Scott, while Barry rallies the troops letting them know what's going on. As Atom dials up one of Mr. Terrific's T-Sphere's, Mera asks Atom "if I'm Wonder Woman and you're Superman, who does that make him?", to which Atom replies "The Flash" as the two flie through the phone lines towards the JSA.
Cut to the JSA are currently duking it out with the Black Lantern Freedom Fighters. Atom and Mera burst out of a T-Sphere, and ask immediately for Scott, while we see Barry racing between heroes around the globe. We see Wonder Woman in DC, standing against the Unknown Soldier and a now landing Max Lord, Black Canary and Green Arrow helping civilians, and the scene from the Titans mini where he and Bart talk, all the while he's explaining what's going on.
Coast City. Black Hand heads towards a cemetary, stating that they all look towards the light but it'll shine to the Guardian's ultimate lie, and that it's hidden there beneath the dead. He's at a mauseliem that can't be made out but has the symbol of the Black Lanterns on it. Power Levels at 97.79%.
Back to the JSA and BL Freedom Fighters, who are also joined by some BL JSA-ers like Dr. Fate, and the original Sandman and Dr. Midnight. Scott tries blasting them back with his Ring, but reminds us once again that he's only a Lantern in name, and not a member of the Corps. As Atom and Damage talk about what they can do, Al Pratt shows up attacking Atom Smasher and Damage, while Atom hops inside Pratt.
Atom explodes out from him, tearing him in two, and states that they need to do things Damage's way, just ripping them and blowing them apart until something comes along to stop them.
Just then, a hand rips through Damage's chest with his heart, and while Atom catches him, we see Black Lantern Jean Loring, which emotionally rips Atom's heart apart. Power Levels 100%.
At this, a speeding Barry is struck down in pain, finding himself just outside Coast City. Guardian Sayd at the Black Central Power Battery on Planet Ryut in Sector 666 says it's time, and a huge hand reaches up grabbing the Battery to transport to Sector 2814 (Earth to those non-GL fans) while Barry contacts Wally and Bart to let everyone know to relocate to Coast City. As Barry reaches Black Hand, the Black Power Battery rises up, and Hand calls for Nekron to Rise.
And he starts to rise. And as Barry asks where Hal is, Nekron calls for Coast City to Rise.
And the final double page, verticle spread is a towering Nekron, with Black Hand and Sayd behind him, and numerous Coast City residents rising up out of the ground as he states that Barry Allen owes him his Life.
Another great solid issue, where the action is non-stop and everything is actually tieing in together through the minis and other series. And I'm loving how Johns is giving the main book to the non major characters like Mera and Atom along with Hal and Barry who are playing the main roles. We don't have Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman leading the lines and calling the shots. And I cannot say enough about Reis' work on art, showing the intensity and variety of emotions all the heroes have. Great story and I can't wait to see how it continues to play out!!
We open with Flash, Atom, and Mera fighting off some Black Lantern Leaguers, trying to figure out why Indigo took Hal, where Barry realizes that they have to hold down the fort so to speak while the Lanterns deal with offworld issues. When he asks where Firestorm is, he turns to find a see of now risen Black Lantern villains from the League Vaults. Among them are Copperhead, Dr. Light, Maxwell Lord, and about a dozen other villains I can't readily recognize (it's hard at times since they alter the costumes, and I don't no a lot of B/C-list DC villains), all being lead by BL Firestorm.
As BL Firestorm chases Barry down, Jason manages to gain control, and lets them know that Ronnie killed Gen, and the voice in the BL heads is calling for Barry and that he needs to run before Ronnie takes control again, and Black Lantern Aquaman arrives as well. But Atom makes a quick rump to a phone, dials 9-1-1, and grabs Mera and Barry after stating he's been messing with his belt and launches all 3 into the phone lines, where they bust out in a call center on the other line.
Meanwhile, Scarecrow is surrounded by Fear colored citizens in Gotham, while Black Lantern Azrael, murdering citizens who aren't worthy of a savior in his eyes. Scarecrow isn't afraid of him though, stating he's used his fear gas on himself one too many times, and the only thing that scares him now is the Batman.
Lex Luthor is talking to Calculator, who's confirming the Dead are Rising with vendettas, and stating how 'we' need to team up for protection, meaning the villains again. Lex, who has a huge viewscreen of deceased people up (and a battlesuit nearby, which I'm sure will play out later) states that it's every man for himself because he's not to be lumped in with the others and he's killed far more people than anyone else so he has his own problems. All the while he's securing various sub labs and levesl to his base.
Back to the Heroes at 9-1-1 HQ, where call workers are asking what to do with these emergencies, Barry says to tell them to stay indoors and calm and the Justice League is on it. Atom says that the League isn't on anything yet and Mera claims they need Wonder Woman and Superman.
In a great panel, Barry looks at both of them and says that "Right now, You Two ARE Superman and Wonder Woman.
He then assures Mera that she's needed because she has information and exeperience with them now, and he tells Ray tha the needs to Grow the Hell up and be the Atom again even after all he's gone through. And while they both might feel like outsiders now, he reminds them that's what makes up the League. And how Hal is the only one who was never bothered by fitting in, and they need to start acting more like Hal in this situation (where he states neither better ever tell Hal he said that, which I laughed a bit at).
So the plan is for Atom and Mera to get Alan Scott, while Barry rallies the troops letting them know what's going on. As Atom dials up one of Mr. Terrific's T-Sphere's, Mera asks Atom "if I'm Wonder Woman and you're Superman, who does that make him?", to which Atom replies "The Flash" as the two flie through the phone lines towards the JSA.
Cut to the JSA are currently duking it out with the Black Lantern Freedom Fighters. Atom and Mera burst out of a T-Sphere, and ask immediately for Scott, while we see Barry racing between heroes around the globe. We see Wonder Woman in DC, standing against the Unknown Soldier and a now landing Max Lord, Black Canary and Green Arrow helping civilians, and the scene from the Titans mini where he and Bart talk, all the while he's explaining what's going on.
Coast City. Black Hand heads towards a cemetary, stating that they all look towards the light but it'll shine to the Guardian's ultimate lie, and that it's hidden there beneath the dead. He's at a mauseliem that can't be made out but has the symbol of the Black Lanterns on it. Power Levels at 97.79%.
Back to the JSA and BL Freedom Fighters, who are also joined by some BL JSA-ers like Dr. Fate, and the original Sandman and Dr. Midnight. Scott tries blasting them back with his Ring, but reminds us once again that he's only a Lantern in name, and not a member of the Corps. As Atom and Damage talk about what they can do, Al Pratt shows up attacking Atom Smasher and Damage, while Atom hops inside Pratt.
Atom explodes out from him, tearing him in two, and states that they need to do things Damage's way, just ripping them and blowing them apart until something comes along to stop them.
Just then, a hand rips through Damage's chest with his heart, and while Atom catches him, we see Black Lantern Jean Loring, which emotionally rips Atom's heart apart. Power Levels 100%.
At this, a speeding Barry is struck down in pain, finding himself just outside Coast City. Guardian Sayd at the Black Central Power Battery on Planet Ryut in Sector 666 says it's time, and a huge hand reaches up grabbing the Battery to transport to Sector 2814 (Earth to those non-GL fans) while Barry contacts Wally and Bart to let everyone know to relocate to Coast City. As Barry reaches Black Hand, the Black Power Battery rises up, and Hand calls for Nekron to Rise.
And he starts to rise. And as Barry asks where Hal is, Nekron calls for Coast City to Rise.
And the final double page, verticle spread is a towering Nekron, with Black Hand and Sayd behind him, and numerous Coast City residents rising up out of the ground as he states that Barry Allen owes him his Life.
Another great solid issue, where the action is non-stop and everything is actually tieing in together through the minis and other series. And I'm loving how Johns is giving the main book to the non major characters like Mera and Atom along with Hal and Barry who are playing the main roles. We don't have Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman leading the lines and calling the shots. And I cannot say enough about Reis' work on art, showing the intensity and variety of emotions all the heroes have. Great story and I can't wait to see how it continues to play out!!
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Tragic Angelus
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Blackest Night #5:
Taking place immediately from the end of Green Lantern #48, we open with the 7 Corps Leaders along with Ganthet and Sayd on Ryut, former base of the Black Lanterns. The latter two sense Scar, the Black Lantern Guardian's presence, and state they can trace the group through her. So then, before leaving, we're treated to an awesome 2 page spread of all 7 of them charging their rings with their personal lanterns reciting their oaths. Most notably, Indigo-1's oath is in her natural language, but it involves Abin Sur's name, making me very curious. Larfleeze doesn't charge his lantern, but watches the otehrs do so.
He refuses to do so because of his never ending hunger, caused by his having the Orange Power Battery. Saint Walker lets him know that the blue light of Hope will hold the hunger back so long as he stays with them, so Larfleeze agrees and Hal shoves his face into the Orange Battery, charging the ring to 100,000%. With the "Rainbow Rodeo" ready as Hal put it, they set out for the Black Power Battery.
Which takes us to earth, where Barry is evading the entire risen population of Coast City, racing towards Nekron and Black Hand. Nekron claims Barry's Death was the first, and his Rebirth will be the last. Black hand tries stop Barry, who notices the skull in his hands, realizing who raided Bruce's grave. He reaches for the skull, and gets some major feedback, and we learn that the Emotional Tether has Manifested. A small bit of tendon begins growing on the Skull.
Suddenly, Wally shows up to help Barry out, along with most of the heroes from the minis. We see Superman, Wonder Woman, Green Arrow, Black Canary, Animal Man, Fire, Ice, Donna Troy, Dove, Cyborg, Starfire, Beast Boy, Kid Flash, Superboy, and Wonder Girl rushing in to help.
Cut back to Atom and Mera helping the JSA, as Damage is sent a ring to rise. Mera attacks the Black Lantern Jean Lohring, but she retaliates grabbing Mera and Atom and the three begin shrinking down, falling into the ring of the now risen Damage.
Back to the main assualt on the Black Power Battery. As the others take on the risen population of Coast City, Bart catches Barry and Wally up on news. He lets them know about Dove's ability to destroy the Lanterns with the white light, so the try moving her to the front lines. He then tells them about Donna being bitten.
The three speedsters then set their goal on freeing the trapped Guardians. But as they begin their assualt, Scar attacks them, and as she grabs Wally, she's attacked by the Seven Corps Leaders (and Reis does a great job making each color attack it's own in this 2 page spread. Red like the flowing fire, Orange as a rushing firehose, Indigo trailing and winding around the entire group, etc. Lots of individual natures to each). Larfleeze then tries to claim the nearly killed Guardian to claim it as his own, but she's finally destroyed by an assault from the other 6.
The 7 then fly towards the Black Power Battery, as Indigo-1 tells them they must recreate the White Light that gave birth to life, as it's the antithesis to death, and if they destroy the battery, it'll destroy everything connected to it. So the 7 pour their power into the Battery (with a fun joke between Carol and Hal about seeing this on a Saturday morning cartoon). But Nekron tells the Guardians the lie is about to be exposed, and a single ring flies from his Battery.
On the front lines, Donna tells Diana that it's too later for her, and she's seeing differently, and we see Wonder Woman colored with Love. Hal notices the rings and light aren't doing anything, to which Black Hand says they're making Nekron stronger as he holds up the skull of Bruce Wayne. Donna doubles over in pain with black energy coming out of her back. And we get the resurrection.
Bruce Wayne of Earth. Rise.
Gorgeous double page vertical spread of the Black Lantern Batman. Yes. Black Lantern Batman.
And everyone reacts. Or more specifically, those on the cover. And they're all people who have died are focused on. Superman, Hal Jordan, Green Lantern, Wonder Woman, Kid Flash. And at each reaction, we learn the emotional tether has manifested. Nekron then tells them that many of them have died and returned, and that they never escaped death. They're all still connected to it, and him. That he allowed them to rise, and he'll use them to expose the secret. Black Lantern Batman spews out a handful of rings to be distributed to the following, and we see all but the first two get them:
Buddy Baker of Earth (Animal Man)
Tora Olafsdotter of Earth (Ice)
Diana Prince of Earth (Wonder Woman)
Kal-El of Krypton (Superman)
Conner Kent of Earth (Superboy)
Bart Allen of Earth (Kid Flash)
Oliver Queen of Earth (Green Arrow)
To which the command given to them is Die.
Hal grabs Black Lantern Batman, but Nekron then says that "Bruce Wayne" has served his purpose and to go back to rest (Quotes included in the book, making me wonder if it really was Bruce now). The ring leaves the body and it falls apart.
We then get a huge double page spread of those who were commanded to Die as Black Lanterns next to Nekron. Yes, Wonder Woman, Superman, Green Arrow and the rest are now Black Lanterns. As well as Donna Troy, who must have finally been converted from her bite. At the bottom of the page are two panels, one with Hal trying to force back a Black Ring and another with Barry trying to outrun one, as both have been called forth as well to join Nekron.
Really great issue, especially the ending. I knew they revealed Nekron early for a reason, and this must be part of it. Now we know why Wonder Woman has been hidden so far in terms of the information on her Blackest Night mini and the action figure. It's really kind of crazy that they're all possibly dead again. I'm sure they'll come back, but the ranks are really thinning in terms of defense for this story. Also of note, we had no cut to Stewart on Xanshi in either book this month, so I'm wondering when that'll pick up again. Maybe in the main GL title since Hal's back on earth with his Corps Leaders?
Taking place immediately from the end of Green Lantern #48, we open with the 7 Corps Leaders along with Ganthet and Sayd on Ryut, former base of the Black Lanterns. The latter two sense Scar, the Black Lantern Guardian's presence, and state they can trace the group through her. So then, before leaving, we're treated to an awesome 2 page spread of all 7 of them charging their rings with their personal lanterns reciting their oaths. Most notably, Indigo-1's oath is in her natural language, but it involves Abin Sur's name, making me very curious. Larfleeze doesn't charge his lantern, but watches the otehrs do so.
He refuses to do so because of his never ending hunger, caused by his having the Orange Power Battery. Saint Walker lets him know that the blue light of Hope will hold the hunger back so long as he stays with them, so Larfleeze agrees and Hal shoves his face into the Orange Battery, charging the ring to 100,000%. With the "Rainbow Rodeo" ready as Hal put it, they set out for the Black Power Battery.
Which takes us to earth, where Barry is evading the entire risen population of Coast City, racing towards Nekron and Black Hand. Nekron claims Barry's Death was the first, and his Rebirth will be the last. Black hand tries stop Barry, who notices the skull in his hands, realizing who raided Bruce's grave. He reaches for the skull, and gets some major feedback, and we learn that the Emotional Tether has Manifested. A small bit of tendon begins growing on the Skull.
Suddenly, Wally shows up to help Barry out, along with most of the heroes from the minis. We see Superman, Wonder Woman, Green Arrow, Black Canary, Animal Man, Fire, Ice, Donna Troy, Dove, Cyborg, Starfire, Beast Boy, Kid Flash, Superboy, and Wonder Girl rushing in to help.
Cut back to Atom and Mera helping the JSA, as Damage is sent a ring to rise. Mera attacks the Black Lantern Jean Lohring, but she retaliates grabbing Mera and Atom and the three begin shrinking down, falling into the ring of the now risen Damage.
Back to the main assualt on the Black Power Battery. As the others take on the risen population of Coast City, Bart catches Barry and Wally up on news. He lets them know about Dove's ability to destroy the Lanterns with the white light, so the try moving her to the front lines. He then tells them about Donna being bitten.
The three speedsters then set their goal on freeing the trapped Guardians. But as they begin their assualt, Scar attacks them, and as she grabs Wally, she's attacked by the Seven Corps Leaders (and Reis does a great job making each color attack it's own in this 2 page spread. Red like the flowing fire, Orange as a rushing firehose, Indigo trailing and winding around the entire group, etc. Lots of individual natures to each). Larfleeze then tries to claim the nearly killed Guardian to claim it as his own, but she's finally destroyed by an assault from the other 6.
The 7 then fly towards the Black Power Battery, as Indigo-1 tells them they must recreate the White Light that gave birth to life, as it's the antithesis to death, and if they destroy the battery, it'll destroy everything connected to it. So the 7 pour their power into the Battery (with a fun joke between Carol and Hal about seeing this on a Saturday morning cartoon). But Nekron tells the Guardians the lie is about to be exposed, and a single ring flies from his Battery.
On the front lines, Donna tells Diana that it's too later for her, and she's seeing differently, and we see Wonder Woman colored with Love. Hal notices the rings and light aren't doing anything, to which Black Hand says they're making Nekron stronger as he holds up the skull of Bruce Wayne. Donna doubles over in pain with black energy coming out of her back. And we get the resurrection.
Bruce Wayne of Earth. Rise.
Gorgeous double page vertical spread of the Black Lantern Batman. Yes. Black Lantern Batman.
And everyone reacts. Or more specifically, those on the cover. And they're all people who have died are focused on. Superman, Hal Jordan, Green Lantern, Wonder Woman, Kid Flash. And at each reaction, we learn the emotional tether has manifested. Nekron then tells them that many of them have died and returned, and that they never escaped death. They're all still connected to it, and him. That he allowed them to rise, and he'll use them to expose the secret. Black Lantern Batman spews out a handful of rings to be distributed to the following, and we see all but the first two get them:
Buddy Baker of Earth (Animal Man)
Tora Olafsdotter of Earth (Ice)
Diana Prince of Earth (Wonder Woman)
Kal-El of Krypton (Superman)
Conner Kent of Earth (Superboy)
Bart Allen of Earth (Kid Flash)
Oliver Queen of Earth (Green Arrow)
To which the command given to them is Die.
Hal grabs Black Lantern Batman, but Nekron then says that "Bruce Wayne" has served his purpose and to go back to rest (Quotes included in the book, making me wonder if it really was Bruce now). The ring leaves the body and it falls apart.
We then get a huge double page spread of those who were commanded to Die as Black Lanterns next to Nekron. Yes, Wonder Woman, Superman, Green Arrow and the rest are now Black Lanterns. As well as Donna Troy, who must have finally been converted from her bite. At the bottom of the page are two panels, one with Hal trying to force back a Black Ring and another with Barry trying to outrun one, as both have been called forth as well to join Nekron.
Really great issue, especially the ending. I knew they revealed Nekron early for a reason, and this must be part of it. Now we know why Wonder Woman has been hidden so far in terms of the information on her Blackest Night mini and the action figure. It's really kind of crazy that they're all possibly dead again. I'm sure they'll come back, but the ranks are really thinning in terms of defense for this story. Also of note, we had no cut to Stewart on Xanshi in either book this month, so I'm wondering when that'll pick up again. Maybe in the main GL title since Hal's back on earth with his Corps Leaders?
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Mr Wallstreet
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Tragic Angelus
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- Joined: Sun Feb 15, 2009 4:44 pm
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It's going great is how it's going. I basically decided to do this because when an event rolls around and half or less of us read it, the rest always go round asking what happened and this way we already know. But it's much, much better to read the book itself than this. I'm being as detailed as I can because Knowing Johns, every last word or image will most likely come back somehow or somewhere
too true! he set this stuff up years ago and it is all relavent! I am having such a great time reading it.Tragic Angelus wrote:It's going great is how it's going. I basically decided to do this because when an event rolls around and half or less of us read it, the rest always go round asking what happened and this way we already know. But it's much, much better to read the book itself than this. I'm being as detailed as I can because Knowing Johns, every last word or image will most likely come back somehow or somewhere
All Will be Well!
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Tragic Angelus
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- Location: Indiana
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Tragic Angelus
- Posts: 3397
- Joined: Sun Feb 15, 2009 4:44 pm
- Location: Indiana
Well it's more the idea of things like the multi-colored corps' that I loved, and them fighting their dead friends has been really fun for me, as a lot of them get to do some emotional things, though these have played out more in the mini series and tie ins than the main books.
I've been enthralled with the multiple corps' since it was revealed just before the Sinestro Corps War, where the Zamaron's officially converted the Star Sapphire's to a Corps, and put their lantern on a post with a Green and Yellow one on others, and 4 more empty posts being seen. So this has been great fun for me.
And I won't lie, I love those kind of team ups. The enemies all come together for 'temporary alliances' to stop a bigger threat, while tried and used, is something I get suckered into a lot. "We're not a team but we have to act like one" and I'm in. And for me, having been reading GL since it relaunched, a lot is playing out, and there are still tons of mysteries and hints to be found, like the avatars of the other Corps, how they all interact, who will wind up wear, etc.
And yes it doesn't hurt I'm a fan of Johns anyways, but is it any different from those who are huge Bendis or Morrison fans, and see them doing no wrong? Sure I'm biased, but he's playing out things he's been working on in GL for awhile. And I'm loving it.
While the White Lanterns come as no shock to me, having called them out years ago because it was just to damned obvious, the reveal as to why the avatar was on Earth surprised me. That is the twist I wasn't expecting.
It's made me care about someone I never gave a thought to in Mera, and enjoyed seeing how things go for her. Atom is finally back in play (Yes, different from his turn in Cry for Justice, but I've not read that yet and it does conflict I've heard) and I'm glad for that.
Like I said, I'm biased, but I've been really excited for this since it was teased years ago, and I feel like it's a great read. I'm apprehensive of Brightest Day after being burned by Countdown, but I'm giving Johns the benefit of the doubt for now.
I've been enthralled with the multiple corps' since it was revealed just before the Sinestro Corps War, where the Zamaron's officially converted the Star Sapphire's to a Corps, and put their lantern on a post with a Green and Yellow one on others, and 4 more empty posts being seen. So this has been great fun for me.
And I won't lie, I love those kind of team ups. The enemies all come together for 'temporary alliances' to stop a bigger threat, while tried and used, is something I get suckered into a lot. "We're not a team but we have to act like one" and I'm in. And for me, having been reading GL since it relaunched, a lot is playing out, and there are still tons of mysteries and hints to be found, like the avatars of the other Corps, how they all interact, who will wind up wear, etc.
And yes it doesn't hurt I'm a fan of Johns anyways, but is it any different from those who are huge Bendis or Morrison fans, and see them doing no wrong? Sure I'm biased, but he's playing out things he's been working on in GL for awhile. And I'm loving it.
While the White Lanterns come as no shock to me, having called them out years ago because it was just to damned obvious, the reveal as to why the avatar was on Earth surprised me. That is the twist I wasn't expecting.
It's made me care about someone I never gave a thought to in Mera, and enjoyed seeing how things go for her. Atom is finally back in play (Yes, different from his turn in Cry for Justice, but I've not read that yet and it does conflict I've heard) and I'm glad for that.
Like I said, I'm biased, but I've been really excited for this since it was teased years ago, and I feel like it's a great read. I'm apprehensive of Brightest Day after being burned by Countdown, but I'm giving Johns the benefit of the doubt for now.
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Tragic Angelus
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Recaps Return! Let's do this!
Issue #6:
*Note, this takes place Immediately after Issue #5 of Blackest Night.
We kick off with the New Guardians (Atrocitus of the RL, Sinestro, Larfleeze of the OL, Saint Walker of the BlueL, Indigo-1, and Carol Ferris), trying to keep a Black Ring from grabbing their other member, Hal Jordan since resurrected Heroes are being called to arms as members of the Black Lantern Corps. Hal is suddenly shot in the back by 3 black arrows, and then attacked by BL Superman, as BLs Green Arrow, Wonder Woman, and Superboy move in on him as well. Hal quickly recalls how most of the turned heroes died and returned, as Barry outraces his own ring and the other living heroes try to take on their friends.
Sinestro, Atrocitus, and Larfleeze are holding Superman back, but Sinestro reminds Hal only GLs can take the 'Kill Shot' but Hal refuses to kill Superman, while Barry and Wally fight off the BL Kid Flash. Barry calls for a tow line from Hal, and when he gets it pulls the two of them two seconds into the future by running at top speed, breaking the connection the Black Rings had to the two. Barry explains it was the emotional trigger from 'Bruce' that allowed all of them to become Black Lanterns, and they ahve to stay in their boots (literally I believe) to keep that trigger dead now.
Cut to Mera and Atom inside a Black Ring with BL Jean (see back up in GL #49), where Deadman forces himself into Jean, managing to free the two, and let them know that every Black Lantern is headed for Earth now. Now freed, Ray gets Mera and himself out, and as they question the incoming BLs, we see John Stewart in space with what looks like thousands of BLs behind him, along with Xanshi and Earth's moon just behind it.
Atom and Mera pop out of BL Wonder Woman's ring, which he mentions was flickering and possibly on it's last leg. Back at full size, Mera goes in to take on WW, and we see her colored with Rage as she states she's always wanted to see if she could hold her own against Diana (See BN: WW #2 for the fight!).
As Hal and Barry return, they and the New Guardians realize they will need more than just them to channel the light of life to destroy the Black Power Battery. They'll need Everyone channeling the light, meaning ALL Corps at full Power. Indigo-1 says her tribe can bring them all together, but it will take time. So Ganthet says he'll buy the time by joining the fight. along with others. He takes Hal's Ring, and duplicates it, as it can do in times of great need. Then says "I am Ganthet of Oa. I welcome myself to the Green Lantern Corps" as he puts on the second Ring. He says the others, tho wielding different lights, use the same technology as the GL rings, and they too can duplicate to deputize an individual for 24 Hours, according to the Book of Oa during the Blackest Night. And as his last act as a Guardian, he triggered that process.
All 6 remaining rings search out for someone to weild the power on Earth. And we get:
Still running from BLs in Coast City:
Barry Allen of Earth. You have the ability to instill Great Hope.
In his secret bunker, finally being taken down by dozens of BLs as he prepares for the attack:
Lex Luthor of Earth. You Want it All.
In his lab, torturing people and trying to figure out why the fear gas won't affect him:
Jonathan Crane of Earth. You have the ability to instill Great Fear.
Fighting in Coast City:
Ray Palmer of Earth. You have the ability to feel Great Compassion.
Fighting each other in Coast City:
Diana Prince of Earth. You have Great Love in your Heart.
Mera of Earth. You have Great Rage in your Heart.
But the Black Ring on Diana's hand is fighting the Violet one, and Carol says she has more power than anyone, as no one on this Earth loves the planet more than Diana. Finally, that love destroys the Black Ring and brings Diana in.
We then see the deputized members rushing to the New Guardians, as Barry says "All Will Be Well"
Great issue and wish this surprise hadn't been spoiled for me over Christmas Break, but my only complaint was that about the last third of the issue was devoted to this and I felt it took a lot away from the issue. Still, great sight to see those 6 as members of various Corps.
Issue #6:
*Note, this takes place Immediately after Issue #5 of Blackest Night.
We kick off with the New Guardians (Atrocitus of the RL, Sinestro, Larfleeze of the OL, Saint Walker of the BlueL, Indigo-1, and Carol Ferris), trying to keep a Black Ring from grabbing their other member, Hal Jordan since resurrected Heroes are being called to arms as members of the Black Lantern Corps. Hal is suddenly shot in the back by 3 black arrows, and then attacked by BL Superman, as BLs Green Arrow, Wonder Woman, and Superboy move in on him as well. Hal quickly recalls how most of the turned heroes died and returned, as Barry outraces his own ring and the other living heroes try to take on their friends.
Sinestro, Atrocitus, and Larfleeze are holding Superman back, but Sinestro reminds Hal only GLs can take the 'Kill Shot' but Hal refuses to kill Superman, while Barry and Wally fight off the BL Kid Flash. Barry calls for a tow line from Hal, and when he gets it pulls the two of them two seconds into the future by running at top speed, breaking the connection the Black Rings had to the two. Barry explains it was the emotional trigger from 'Bruce' that allowed all of them to become Black Lanterns, and they ahve to stay in their boots (literally I believe) to keep that trigger dead now.
Cut to Mera and Atom inside a Black Ring with BL Jean (see back up in GL #49), where Deadman forces himself into Jean, managing to free the two, and let them know that every Black Lantern is headed for Earth now. Now freed, Ray gets Mera and himself out, and as they question the incoming BLs, we see John Stewart in space with what looks like thousands of BLs behind him, along with Xanshi and Earth's moon just behind it.
Atom and Mera pop out of BL Wonder Woman's ring, which he mentions was flickering and possibly on it's last leg. Back at full size, Mera goes in to take on WW, and we see her colored with Rage as she states she's always wanted to see if she could hold her own against Diana (See BN: WW #2 for the fight!).
As Hal and Barry return, they and the New Guardians realize they will need more than just them to channel the light of life to destroy the Black Power Battery. They'll need Everyone channeling the light, meaning ALL Corps at full Power. Indigo-1 says her tribe can bring them all together, but it will take time. So Ganthet says he'll buy the time by joining the fight. along with others. He takes Hal's Ring, and duplicates it, as it can do in times of great need. Then says "I am Ganthet of Oa. I welcome myself to the Green Lantern Corps" as he puts on the second Ring. He says the others, tho wielding different lights, use the same technology as the GL rings, and they too can duplicate to deputize an individual for 24 Hours, according to the Book of Oa during the Blackest Night. And as his last act as a Guardian, he triggered that process.
All 6 remaining rings search out for someone to weild the power on Earth. And we get:
Still running from BLs in Coast City:
Barry Allen of Earth. You have the ability to instill Great Hope.
In his secret bunker, finally being taken down by dozens of BLs as he prepares for the attack:
Lex Luthor of Earth. You Want it All.
In his lab, torturing people and trying to figure out why the fear gas won't affect him:
Jonathan Crane of Earth. You have the ability to instill Great Fear.
Fighting in Coast City:
Ray Palmer of Earth. You have the ability to feel Great Compassion.
Fighting each other in Coast City:
Diana Prince of Earth. You have Great Love in your Heart.
Mera of Earth. You have Great Rage in your Heart.
But the Black Ring on Diana's hand is fighting the Violet one, and Carol says she has more power than anyone, as no one on this Earth loves the planet more than Diana. Finally, that love destroys the Black Ring and brings Diana in.
We then see the deputized members rushing to the New Guardians, as Barry says "All Will Be Well"
Great issue and wish this surprise hadn't been spoiled for me over Christmas Break, but my only complaint was that about the last third of the issue was devoted to this and I felt it took a lot away from the issue. Still, great sight to see those 6 as members of various Corps.
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Tragic Angelus
- Posts: 3397
- Joined: Sun Feb 15, 2009 4:44 pm
- Location: Indiana
Issue #7:
*Note this takes place after Green Lantern #51.
We open with Nekron having his BN JLA drag the remaining Oans to him, as he declares them the oldest living beings in the universe, and that their connection to the White Light is stronger than anyone elses. But they bury it deeply, and asks why they vow to protect life when they don't live it. Why they want to protect the universe. And the one in his hand says he does not remember.
So the New Guardians and their Deputies move in, blasting away at Nekron but realizing it has no effect on him. As members discuss this realization, Hal mentions that Nekron isn't like the others, and he's not lecturing anyone about making this personal because to him it isn't. But Black Hand yells out that to him, it is.
He launches out and pulls down all 14 with Black energy. As he sees Atrocitus, he recalls meeting him years ago, as does Atrocitus who says Hand is the doorway to the Black, and he tried to end all of this years ago (See Green Lantern: Secret Origin). Black Hand reaches through Atrocitus to find his heart, but Hal breaks free and attacks him. Hand reaches back and shoves Hal to the ground, but his concentration broken the other Lanterns are freed, and begin attacking him. As Luthor want's nothing to do with it, the others call out to him and try to persuade him. But it's not until Scarecrow says the moment is now his to act, that Luthor gets involved.
He attacks Scarecrow, demanding the ring. He pulls it off, and now wields the Orange and Yellow Light, and demands all of the other rings, attacking the others and launching himself at Mera for a "pretty red ring."
In space, John Stewart is attempting to fight off the BLs in orbit, only to learn that BL Air Wave is jamming his call for help. Suddenly, the Black Rings state "Warning. Emotional Spectrum Detonation Imminent."
And we have a double page spread of Guy, Kyle, and Kilowag leading the members of EVERY Corps headlong into the battle in space. Green, Yellow, Violet, Red, and Blue have all been brought together by members of the Indigo Tribe, but things don't go well to start.
As Black Lanterns move in for the attack, the Corps start attacking one another. Until finally, each recieves orders over their ring. All animosities and grudges between Corps are ordered to be put on hold, as all enter a temporary alliance to defeat the Black Corps. Guy doesn't trust it, but with no choice they all begin fighting to save each others lives above Orbit.
Back in Coast City, we see Dove walking and destroying BLs everywhere she goes again. She tries to move towards their power source to damage it but is struck by an immense surge of power, as something callsout to Nekron, and we see a body pushing out against the Black Lantern Power Battery, and Dove can feel it fighting to get out.
Indigo-1 reminds Atom that Luthor cannot remove Mera's ring, as it has stopped her heart (Something that will come into play when her 24 hours are up I'm sure), and they pull him off of her.
Nekron finally executes the Guardian in his hand. Black Hand moves in and rips the dying Guardian's chest open, pulling out his organs. Which surprisingly, are colored the various colors of the Corps. He then Slams the Organs down onto the ground, and a symbol echoes out. But not the Black Lantern Corps Symobl. The Brightest Day Symbol.
Cut to Atrocitus and Wonder Woman fighting Luthor, and with her Lasso around him, Luthor reveals the truth is that he wants to be Superman. Hal asks Ganthet what Nekron is doing, and he responds that he's begun to make contact.
Nekron then calls for the Trespasser to Rise. And huge white Light errupts from the ground.
We then get a huge spread of a large, white light avatar coiled up, rising from the ground. And the others look on in amazement, while Luthor demands he wants it. But Larfleeze demands he wants Luthor's Life. And Nekron calls that he wants all of their lives, and strikes the being with his scythe, calling for them to die.
As he does, every living being cries out in pain, and Black Hand feels nothing.
Hal asks what it is then, and Ganthet calls it "The Entity. The Living Light Bestowed Upon this Universe that Triggered Existence Itself." He then says that Life did NOT begin on the Guardian's World, but Life Began on Earth. They buried the fact to keep the Entity protected. They had done their best to keep Earthmen out of the Corps for that reason, and allowed Abin Sur to die as someone spouting off insane nonesense to keep the fact hidden when he learned the truth. When he learns all of this, Sinestro reacts with anger and attacks Ganthet.
But Nekron attacks the Entity again, and Ganthet lets them know that every living being is connected to it, and dying as it's attacked. Hal realizes that its just another Entity like Parallax or Ion and needs a host to act. He races towards it, but Sinestro pulls him back. Saying Hal had his chance with Parallax, but this is his duty. Why he's alive. He dives into the Entity, demanding it's power. He says he will finally prove to the Universe that he is the greatest Lantern of them All.
And with that, a huge spread of "Thaal Sinestro of Korugar. Destiny Awaits." And the First White Lantern is Born.
End Issue.
A great issue with plenty of action, and while the White Lantern Corps comes as no surprise, that life started on Earth is the big secret is what catches me. Sinestro holding the Entity of the White Corps will be interesting, and there's a lot to wrap in just about 1 issue each of GL and BN.
*Note this takes place after Green Lantern #51.
We open with Nekron having his BN JLA drag the remaining Oans to him, as he declares them the oldest living beings in the universe, and that their connection to the White Light is stronger than anyone elses. But they bury it deeply, and asks why they vow to protect life when they don't live it. Why they want to protect the universe. And the one in his hand says he does not remember.
So the New Guardians and their Deputies move in, blasting away at Nekron but realizing it has no effect on him. As members discuss this realization, Hal mentions that Nekron isn't like the others, and he's not lecturing anyone about making this personal because to him it isn't. But Black Hand yells out that to him, it is.
He launches out and pulls down all 14 with Black energy. As he sees Atrocitus, he recalls meeting him years ago, as does Atrocitus who says Hand is the doorway to the Black, and he tried to end all of this years ago (See Green Lantern: Secret Origin). Black Hand reaches through Atrocitus to find his heart, but Hal breaks free and attacks him. Hand reaches back and shoves Hal to the ground, but his concentration broken the other Lanterns are freed, and begin attacking him. As Luthor want's nothing to do with it, the others call out to him and try to persuade him. But it's not until Scarecrow says the moment is now his to act, that Luthor gets involved.
He attacks Scarecrow, demanding the ring. He pulls it off, and now wields the Orange and Yellow Light, and demands all of the other rings, attacking the others and launching himself at Mera for a "pretty red ring."
In space, John Stewart is attempting to fight off the BLs in orbit, only to learn that BL Air Wave is jamming his call for help. Suddenly, the Black Rings state "Warning. Emotional Spectrum Detonation Imminent."
And we have a double page spread of Guy, Kyle, and Kilowag leading the members of EVERY Corps headlong into the battle in space. Green, Yellow, Violet, Red, and Blue have all been brought together by members of the Indigo Tribe, but things don't go well to start.
As Black Lanterns move in for the attack, the Corps start attacking one another. Until finally, each recieves orders over their ring. All animosities and grudges between Corps are ordered to be put on hold, as all enter a temporary alliance to defeat the Black Corps. Guy doesn't trust it, but with no choice they all begin fighting to save each others lives above Orbit.
Back in Coast City, we see Dove walking and destroying BLs everywhere she goes again. She tries to move towards their power source to damage it but is struck by an immense surge of power, as something callsout to Nekron, and we see a body pushing out against the Black Lantern Power Battery, and Dove can feel it fighting to get out.
Indigo-1 reminds Atom that Luthor cannot remove Mera's ring, as it has stopped her heart (Something that will come into play when her 24 hours are up I'm sure), and they pull him off of her.
Nekron finally executes the Guardian in his hand. Black Hand moves in and rips the dying Guardian's chest open, pulling out his organs. Which surprisingly, are colored the various colors of the Corps. He then Slams the Organs down onto the ground, and a symbol echoes out. But not the Black Lantern Corps Symobl. The Brightest Day Symbol.
Cut to Atrocitus and Wonder Woman fighting Luthor, and with her Lasso around him, Luthor reveals the truth is that he wants to be Superman. Hal asks Ganthet what Nekron is doing, and he responds that he's begun to make contact.
Nekron then calls for the Trespasser to Rise. And huge white Light errupts from the ground.
We then get a huge spread of a large, white light avatar coiled up, rising from the ground. And the others look on in amazement, while Luthor demands he wants it. But Larfleeze demands he wants Luthor's Life. And Nekron calls that he wants all of their lives, and strikes the being with his scythe, calling for them to die.
As he does, every living being cries out in pain, and Black Hand feels nothing.
Hal asks what it is then, and Ganthet calls it "The Entity. The Living Light Bestowed Upon this Universe that Triggered Existence Itself." He then says that Life did NOT begin on the Guardian's World, but Life Began on Earth. They buried the fact to keep the Entity protected. They had done their best to keep Earthmen out of the Corps for that reason, and allowed Abin Sur to die as someone spouting off insane nonesense to keep the fact hidden when he learned the truth. When he learns all of this, Sinestro reacts with anger and attacks Ganthet.
But Nekron attacks the Entity again, and Ganthet lets them know that every living being is connected to it, and dying as it's attacked. Hal realizes that its just another Entity like Parallax or Ion and needs a host to act. He races towards it, but Sinestro pulls him back. Saying Hal had his chance with Parallax, but this is his duty. Why he's alive. He dives into the Entity, demanding it's power. He says he will finally prove to the Universe that he is the greatest Lantern of them All.
And with that, a huge spread of "Thaal Sinestro of Korugar. Destiny Awaits." And the First White Lantern is Born.
End Issue.
A great issue with plenty of action, and while the White Lantern Corps comes as no surprise, that life started on Earth is the big secret is what catches me. Sinestro holding the Entity of the White Corps will be interesting, and there's a lot to wrap in just about 1 issue each of GL and BN.
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Tragic Angelus
- Posts: 3397
- Joined: Sun Feb 15, 2009 4:44 pm
- Location: Indiana
Here we go, the big Finale, and lead in to Brightest Day!
Issue #8:
*Note, this takes place after Green Lantern #52
We open up with Hal explaining how he is afraid of one thing, that being getting close to people because eventually everyone dies, and how he can't trust the future since it may not exist for most of them. All of this while looking on as White Lantern Sinestro goes toe to toe with Nekron.
We get a two page vertical spread of Nekron defending an attack from Sinestro, who's weilding a huge white construct sword, declaring himself the savior of the Universe now that he's bonded to the light of life itself. As Carol, Hal, Ray, and Ganthet look on and Ganthet explains the level of power Sinestro has being godlike, Sinestro manges to chain Nekron back, finally reaching into his chest, and ripping the heart out of Nekron.
As he looks at the heart in his hand, a Black Lantern moves toward the scythe, picks it up, and we hear "Nekron. Rise." as the BL transforms back into Nekron. He states that he is the embodiment of death, and cannot be killed or destroyed. Catching Sinestro offguard, he reaches in and attempts to pull the entity out.
With everyone looking on, they realize Sinestro's ego is fueling his power rather than his will to survive, and no one can actually control the White Entity. After a breif interruption by Luthor, still demanding rings and being knocked out by Larfleeze, the minds of all the New Guardians and Deputies are attacked.
And the Black Lantern JLA re-enters the fray. BL Martian Manhunter strikes Hal down, while BL's Aquaman, Hawkman, Superman, Firestorm, and more head towards them. They're nearly overwhelmed until Indigo-1 announces that back-up has arrived.
We get a two page spread of the Black Lanterns being assualted by the New Guardians, the Deputies, the Green Lantern Corps, Red Lantern Corps, Star Sapphires, Sinestro Corps, Blue Lantern Corps, Indigo Tribe, JSA, Titans, and more.
Then, Hal orders everyone with a ring to pour their energy onto Nekron, who's currently attacking the White Light Entity. As they do, Guy Gardner questions if it will work when suddenly, Deadman jumps into his body and starts filling Hal in on what he's being learning. He tells them that Nekron is sentient blackness. He is what space is, the parts between planets and stars, and he has a tether to the land of the living. Only by destroying that tether can they defeat him.
It's Black Hand, and to destroy they tether, they have to get his heart beating again. Deadman slips out of Guy, not knowing how to "fix" Black Hand, only that it has to be done.
Finally seperating Sinestro from the Entity, reminding everyone that death is their destiny, and he is the reason that Hal and those like him were allowed to come back to life, but that they will not be able to anymore.
Hal tells Nekron that he might have been the one who made the opportunity for that, but he's the one who took it. Coming back to life was his choice. Attack by Black Hand from behind, who says life has no purpose, Barry runs in and pulls Hal out of his hands, claiming that THEY give Life purpose.
As Superman makes his way to Hal, Hal flies straight into the White Light Entity, claiming that everyone who Nekron thought he let come back did so on their own, and that they all chose life when given the chance.
Connection Severed on Superman.
Connection Overriden on Wonder Woman.
Connection Overriden on Flash.
And a huge two page spread of White light striking through Black Hand by the first White Lantern Corps, made up of Hal Jordan, Barry Allen, Superman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, Animal Man, Superboy, Donna Troy, Ice, and Kid Flash, all also now finally free from the Black Rings (if not done so already) and alive once more.
Hal states that they chose to live, and they now chose for it to happen to Black Hand as well. Their energy pushes the White Entity forward, who calls out "William Hand of Earth. Live" and he is resurrected.
He coughs up black energy and a White Ring, which flies through Nekron's body, burning him, and straight towards the Black Power Battery.
"Anti-Monitor of Qward. Live" and he errupts from the battery, exploding it, declaring he is no longer Nekron's power source or pawn, and attacks him. Nekron fires back, telling him to go back to his own universe as this one is his, and the Anti-Monitor vanishes.
Black Hand coughs up a dozen or so more White Rings, and as Nekron calls out against it, the rings state "Nekron. Let there be Light" and the rings rush out and explode through him, destroying Nekron.
Amon Tomaz of Earth.
Jennie-Lynn Hayden of Earth.
Digger Harkness of Earth.
Hank Hall of Earth.
Ronnie Raymond of Earth.
Maxwell Lord of Earth.
Eobard Thawne of Earth.
Kendra Saunders of Earth.
Carter Hall of Earth.
J'onn J'onzz of Mars.
Aruthur Curry of Earth.
Boston Brand of Earth.
LIVE. And a wonderful, four page pull out spread of them all returned to life. Max Lord, Reverse Flash (who was hinted at in Blackest Night: Flash), Hawk, Jade, Captain Boomerang I, Firestorm, Martian Manhunter (in a new costume, mixing old and newest, with the old red 'X' but full pants), Aquaman, Hawkman, Hawkgirl, Deadman, and Osiris.
The others looking on are in shock at what has happened, and Mera calls out to Arthur. Suddenly, her ring states "Rage Compromised" as she's no longer angry about her husband's death, and her ring cracks of and she falls into cardiac arrest.
Aquaman rushes to her, and Carol grabs her and Arthur, channeling his love for her into her, using his heart to make hers beat again while Saint Walker uses his power to reverse the Red Light's affects. She wakes up, sees her husband and when she realizes the two of them aren't dead, they're finally reunited.
Hawkman and Hawkgirl are next, and as Carter asks Kendra what's wrong, she tells him that she remembers everything, from past lives to times with the JSA and JLA, and that she remembers him. She finally removes her helmut here, showing that she's not Kendra Saunders, but has long red hair, and is finally Shiera again, and the two embrace each other, mimicing the death scene from Issue #1.
Superman confronts J'onn, thrilled he is alive, and he responds simply as "It Appears So" with a smile. But he's interrupted when a telepathic call asks for his help, and we see Firestorm dealing with the fact that Jason is still merged with Ronnie. The two seperate finally, with Jason still in shock at how Ronnie killed Gen, and Ronnie asking Ray where Professor Stein is.
Hawk in engraged, wanting to know what's happening, and Dove tries calming him down. Guy Gardner suddenly realizes that Max Lord is there, and wraps him up in a construct telling him he'll pay for what happened, when he's cut off, and let's Max go as blood slides from his nose. Guy asks if he's ok, as Max fades out of view.
Jade rushes to Kyle, embracing him as Soranik Natu looks on. Superboy and Kid Flash recognize Osiris, who says he just wants to go home. Flash rushes towards Twane, finally realizing how he came back, and as Captain Boomerange prepares to attack him (who, by the way sems to be in his prime, and not the overweight one who died in Identity Crisis), Barry knocks him out quickly.
Barry starts looking around for Ralph and Sue, when Hal has to tell him that they're not here. Barry gets angry, asking Why before being interrupted by the now alive Deadman, who can be seen by everyone, but states that it's not right and he should not be here.
Luthor's thrown down to everyone, no longer with an Orange Ring, and Larfleeze demands they take him back, and everyone points out that he finally gave someone something rather than took, to which he then demands his promise with Sayd be fullfilled. She says that she must go, and that she might be able to help him, and that there is much to discuss about all of the Corps.
She notices that Black Hand is missing, and Saint Walker points out that Indigo-1 and her Tribe are as well.
We go back to their planet, where again in their language she leads her Tribe on a march, the only words we can understand being Abin Sur and Larfleeze. We then see a chained Black Hand, with the Indigo Symbol on his head, chest and in his eyes, though he looks as if he's sedated, following the Tribe.
Cut to Gotham City, the next day. Barry and Hal are at Bruce's Grave once again, this time out of costume. Barry again wonders why Aquaman and J'onn were brought back but those like Ralph and Sue weren't, and Hal says Ganthet assumes there's a bigger plan and purpose. Barry asks that if Nekron is no longer pulling strings that people won't come back, and Hal respondes that he thinks Dead is Dead from here on out (Editorial Comment, or tongue in check inside joke?), except for Bruce.
He recalls how that Black Lantern didn't recognize them, and it wasn't Bruce and he believes that Tim Drake is right in his search for Bruce. When Barry asks about the White Light Entity, and if it's hidden in the Earth or Black Hand, Hal says he can feel it urging us to break from the past and Blackest Night and into tomorrow.
The final page shows a craetor, in what looks like a country or less traveled road, with a few cars and a polic officer looking down into it, as a something looks to have just crashed there and is still smoking. The bottom panel is a close up on a White Lantern at the bottom of the craetor, with the hint of leading into the Brightest Day.
The End.
And that's it. Honestly, I loved it, from start to finish. This and the GL tie ins were an incredible story that while I find it hard to think it started way back in Early Fall, I'm a bit upset to see it end. They really wrapped up a lot of things in the final issue, though didn't mention why the New Guardians will be living on Earth, as the solicits have stated. And it ends rather simply, but if you want to know about the White Lantern Corps, you're going to have to go into Brightest Day. Fantastic Artwork, and I'm thrilled to see some people back from the dead but surprised at others. Captain Boomerang and Osiris? Those seemed to be awkward, but Johns obviously has a purpose. J'onn and Arthur were givens it seems, along with the Hawks. But Kendra now being Shiera is big, which it took me a secong to catch at first.
I think Ronnie and Jason will make up Firestorm now, which will be interesting as Jason most likely will blame Ronnie for Gen's death for a long time. And Max Lord coming back is going to play out in the JLA Generation Lost alternating weeks with Brightest Day I'm sure. The one that really got me was Deadman though, now being alive. I've always liked the character, and really enjoyed the expanded role he got through the various BN tie ins and main book. I wonder how he'll play out.
My only issue is a cover one, the lack of Mera being on the cover. I don't know if it was intentional, but since we saw the pencils people have wondered where she was. It had all the New Guardians and Deputies on it minus her, and other members of the various Corps all lead by White Lantern Sinestro. It's just..upsetting to not see one of the most prominant characters overlooked on the final cover.
But I loved it, and I look forward to reading it all now as one volume soon.
Issue #8:
*Note, this takes place after Green Lantern #52
We open up with Hal explaining how he is afraid of one thing, that being getting close to people because eventually everyone dies, and how he can't trust the future since it may not exist for most of them. All of this while looking on as White Lantern Sinestro goes toe to toe with Nekron.
We get a two page vertical spread of Nekron defending an attack from Sinestro, who's weilding a huge white construct sword, declaring himself the savior of the Universe now that he's bonded to the light of life itself. As Carol, Hal, Ray, and Ganthet look on and Ganthet explains the level of power Sinestro has being godlike, Sinestro manges to chain Nekron back, finally reaching into his chest, and ripping the heart out of Nekron.
As he looks at the heart in his hand, a Black Lantern moves toward the scythe, picks it up, and we hear "Nekron. Rise." as the BL transforms back into Nekron. He states that he is the embodiment of death, and cannot be killed or destroyed. Catching Sinestro offguard, he reaches in and attempts to pull the entity out.
With everyone looking on, they realize Sinestro's ego is fueling his power rather than his will to survive, and no one can actually control the White Entity. After a breif interruption by Luthor, still demanding rings and being knocked out by Larfleeze, the minds of all the New Guardians and Deputies are attacked.
And the Black Lantern JLA re-enters the fray. BL Martian Manhunter strikes Hal down, while BL's Aquaman, Hawkman, Superman, Firestorm, and more head towards them. They're nearly overwhelmed until Indigo-1 announces that back-up has arrived.
We get a two page spread of the Black Lanterns being assualted by the New Guardians, the Deputies, the Green Lantern Corps, Red Lantern Corps, Star Sapphires, Sinestro Corps, Blue Lantern Corps, Indigo Tribe, JSA, Titans, and more.
Then, Hal orders everyone with a ring to pour their energy onto Nekron, who's currently attacking the White Light Entity. As they do, Guy Gardner questions if it will work when suddenly, Deadman jumps into his body and starts filling Hal in on what he's being learning. He tells them that Nekron is sentient blackness. He is what space is, the parts between planets and stars, and he has a tether to the land of the living. Only by destroying that tether can they defeat him.
It's Black Hand, and to destroy they tether, they have to get his heart beating again. Deadman slips out of Guy, not knowing how to "fix" Black Hand, only that it has to be done.
Finally seperating Sinestro from the Entity, reminding everyone that death is their destiny, and he is the reason that Hal and those like him were allowed to come back to life, but that they will not be able to anymore.
Hal tells Nekron that he might have been the one who made the opportunity for that, but he's the one who took it. Coming back to life was his choice. Attack by Black Hand from behind, who says life has no purpose, Barry runs in and pulls Hal out of his hands, claiming that THEY give Life purpose.
As Superman makes his way to Hal, Hal flies straight into the White Light Entity, claiming that everyone who Nekron thought he let come back did so on their own, and that they all chose life when given the chance.
Connection Severed on Superman.
Connection Overriden on Wonder Woman.
Connection Overriden on Flash.
And a huge two page spread of White light striking through Black Hand by the first White Lantern Corps, made up of Hal Jordan, Barry Allen, Superman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, Animal Man, Superboy, Donna Troy, Ice, and Kid Flash, all also now finally free from the Black Rings (if not done so already) and alive once more.
Hal states that they chose to live, and they now chose for it to happen to Black Hand as well. Their energy pushes the White Entity forward, who calls out "William Hand of Earth. Live" and he is resurrected.
He coughs up black energy and a White Ring, which flies through Nekron's body, burning him, and straight towards the Black Power Battery.
"Anti-Monitor of Qward. Live" and he errupts from the battery, exploding it, declaring he is no longer Nekron's power source or pawn, and attacks him. Nekron fires back, telling him to go back to his own universe as this one is his, and the Anti-Monitor vanishes.
Black Hand coughs up a dozen or so more White Rings, and as Nekron calls out against it, the rings state "Nekron. Let there be Light" and the rings rush out and explode through him, destroying Nekron.
Amon Tomaz of Earth.
Jennie-Lynn Hayden of Earth.
Digger Harkness of Earth.
Hank Hall of Earth.
Ronnie Raymond of Earth.
Maxwell Lord of Earth.
Eobard Thawne of Earth.
Kendra Saunders of Earth.
Carter Hall of Earth.
J'onn J'onzz of Mars.
Aruthur Curry of Earth.
Boston Brand of Earth.
LIVE. And a wonderful, four page pull out spread of them all returned to life. Max Lord, Reverse Flash (who was hinted at in Blackest Night: Flash), Hawk, Jade, Captain Boomerang I, Firestorm, Martian Manhunter (in a new costume, mixing old and newest, with the old red 'X' but full pants), Aquaman, Hawkman, Hawkgirl, Deadman, and Osiris.
The others looking on are in shock at what has happened, and Mera calls out to Arthur. Suddenly, her ring states "Rage Compromised" as she's no longer angry about her husband's death, and her ring cracks of and she falls into cardiac arrest.
Aquaman rushes to her, and Carol grabs her and Arthur, channeling his love for her into her, using his heart to make hers beat again while Saint Walker uses his power to reverse the Red Light's affects. She wakes up, sees her husband and when she realizes the two of them aren't dead, they're finally reunited.
Hawkman and Hawkgirl are next, and as Carter asks Kendra what's wrong, she tells him that she remembers everything, from past lives to times with the JSA and JLA, and that she remembers him. She finally removes her helmut here, showing that she's not Kendra Saunders, but has long red hair, and is finally Shiera again, and the two embrace each other, mimicing the death scene from Issue #1.
Superman confronts J'onn, thrilled he is alive, and he responds simply as "It Appears So" with a smile. But he's interrupted when a telepathic call asks for his help, and we see Firestorm dealing with the fact that Jason is still merged with Ronnie. The two seperate finally, with Jason still in shock at how Ronnie killed Gen, and Ronnie asking Ray where Professor Stein is.
Hawk in engraged, wanting to know what's happening, and Dove tries calming him down. Guy Gardner suddenly realizes that Max Lord is there, and wraps him up in a construct telling him he'll pay for what happened, when he's cut off, and let's Max go as blood slides from his nose. Guy asks if he's ok, as Max fades out of view.
Jade rushes to Kyle, embracing him as Soranik Natu looks on. Superboy and Kid Flash recognize Osiris, who says he just wants to go home. Flash rushes towards Twane, finally realizing how he came back, and as Captain Boomerange prepares to attack him (who, by the way sems to be in his prime, and not the overweight one who died in Identity Crisis), Barry knocks him out quickly.
Barry starts looking around for Ralph and Sue, when Hal has to tell him that they're not here. Barry gets angry, asking Why before being interrupted by the now alive Deadman, who can be seen by everyone, but states that it's not right and he should not be here.
Luthor's thrown down to everyone, no longer with an Orange Ring, and Larfleeze demands they take him back, and everyone points out that he finally gave someone something rather than took, to which he then demands his promise with Sayd be fullfilled. She says that she must go, and that she might be able to help him, and that there is much to discuss about all of the Corps.
She notices that Black Hand is missing, and Saint Walker points out that Indigo-1 and her Tribe are as well.
We go back to their planet, where again in their language she leads her Tribe on a march, the only words we can understand being Abin Sur and Larfleeze. We then see a chained Black Hand, with the Indigo Symbol on his head, chest and in his eyes, though he looks as if he's sedated, following the Tribe.
Cut to Gotham City, the next day. Barry and Hal are at Bruce's Grave once again, this time out of costume. Barry again wonders why Aquaman and J'onn were brought back but those like Ralph and Sue weren't, and Hal says Ganthet assumes there's a bigger plan and purpose. Barry asks that if Nekron is no longer pulling strings that people won't come back, and Hal respondes that he thinks Dead is Dead from here on out (Editorial Comment, or tongue in check inside joke?), except for Bruce.
He recalls how that Black Lantern didn't recognize them, and it wasn't Bruce and he believes that Tim Drake is right in his search for Bruce. When Barry asks about the White Light Entity, and if it's hidden in the Earth or Black Hand, Hal says he can feel it urging us to break from the past and Blackest Night and into tomorrow.
The final page shows a craetor, in what looks like a country or less traveled road, with a few cars and a polic officer looking down into it, as a something looks to have just crashed there and is still smoking. The bottom panel is a close up on a White Lantern at the bottom of the craetor, with the hint of leading into the Brightest Day.
The End.
And that's it. Honestly, I loved it, from start to finish. This and the GL tie ins were an incredible story that while I find it hard to think it started way back in Early Fall, I'm a bit upset to see it end. They really wrapped up a lot of things in the final issue, though didn't mention why the New Guardians will be living on Earth, as the solicits have stated. And it ends rather simply, but if you want to know about the White Lantern Corps, you're going to have to go into Brightest Day. Fantastic Artwork, and I'm thrilled to see some people back from the dead but surprised at others. Captain Boomerang and Osiris? Those seemed to be awkward, but Johns obviously has a purpose. J'onn and Arthur were givens it seems, along with the Hawks. But Kendra now being Shiera is big, which it took me a secong to catch at first.
I think Ronnie and Jason will make up Firestorm now, which will be interesting as Jason most likely will blame Ronnie for Gen's death for a long time. And Max Lord coming back is going to play out in the JLA Generation Lost alternating weeks with Brightest Day I'm sure. The one that really got me was Deadman though, now being alive. I've always liked the character, and really enjoyed the expanded role he got through the various BN tie ins and main book. I wonder how he'll play out.
My only issue is a cover one, the lack of Mera being on the cover. I don't know if it was intentional, but since we saw the pencils people have wondered where she was. It had all the New Guardians and Deputies on it minus her, and other members of the various Corps all lead by White Lantern Sinestro. It's just..upsetting to not see one of the most prominant characters overlooked on the final cover.
But I loved it, and I look forward to reading it all now as one volume soon.