Blackest Night # 1 2009 NM-

Blackest Night #1, published in July 2009, is the first issue of a major eight-part DC Comics crossover event written by Geoff Johns and illustrated by Ivan Reis. It chronicles the rise of the Black Lantern Corps, an army of reanimated heroes and villains led by the personification of death, Nekron, who seeks to extinguish all life and emotion in the universe. 

Plot Synopsis

The issue begins on a national day of mourning for fallen heroes, such as Superman and Martian Manhunter. 

• The Prophecy: The "Blackest Night" prophecy from the Green Lantern mythos finally comes to pass as millions of black power rings are sent across the galaxy to revive the dead.
• Black Hand's Role: The villain Black Hand serves as the avatar for this darkness, digging up the skull of Bruce Wayne to use as a tether for the Black Lantern Central Power Battery.
• Major Deaths: The issue features the brutal murder of Hawkman and Hawkgirl by the undead Elongated Man and Sue Dibny, after which they are immediately resurrected as Black Lanterns.
• The Threat Begins: Hal Jordan and a recently returned Barry Allen are confronted by the undead Martian Manhunter, who declares that they both belong among the dead. 

Key Creative Team

• Writer: Geoff Johns, who used this event as the culmination of the "War of Light" storyline.
• Artists: Ivan Reis (pencils), Oclair Albert (inks), and Alex Sinclair (colors).
• Themes: The story centers on the Emotional Spectrum, where the Black Lanterns feed on the hearts of those experiencing intense emotions.