Dark Days: The Casting #1 DC Comics 9/17 Foil CGC 9.8 4631836023

Dark Days: The Casting #1 2017) is a key prelude to the Dark Nights: Metal event, deepening the conspiracy around mysterious metals and revealing a darker, hidden history of the DC Universe. It sets the stage for the invasion of the Dark Multiverse and connects Batman's investigation with the ancient, reincarnating history of Hawkman. 1st app. of the Dark Knights in cameo.

The Joker's role: The issue opens with the Joker launching a surprise attack that derails Batman's plans, forcing him to improvise. The Joker then becomes a twisted, unwilling collaborator, providing Batman with critical, albeit cryptic, information.

Hawkman's secret history: The comic delves into Carter Hall (Hawkman's) backstory, revealing his centuries-long obsession with unraveling the mystery of the Nth Metal. He recounts how he and Hawkwoman found ancient texts describing a war between the "Tribe of the Hawk" and worshippers of a bat-demon.

The Immortals and the Court of Owls: Hawkman meets with other immortals, including Vandal Savage and the Wizard Shazam, who discuss the deeper mysteries of the universe. The story ties into the history of the Court of Owls, revealing their roots in the bat-worshipping cult.

The Dark Multiverse is revealed: The comic confirms the existence of a Dark Multiverse, a corrupted version of reality. A vision is shown of the "Dark Knights," evil versions of Batman who represent the darkest fears and failures of the regular universe's heroes. This vision, which includes the Batman Who Laughs, the Red Death, and the Murder Machine, signals the imminent threat of their arrival.

Batman's alliances and moral compromises: In his desperate search for answers, Batman is forced to align with unlikely and untrustworthy figures. This raises ethical questions and creates tension with his allies, such as Green Lantern, who grows concerned by Batman's increasingly extreme methods.

Introduction of Duke Thomas: The story continues to feature young hero Duke Thomas, establishing him as a crucial figure with a unique connection to the unfolding mystery. He acts as a "wild card," with revelations about his origin and future casting doubt on Batman's intentions.

The Eight and Ninth Metals: The Casting continues the investigation into the different metals of the DC Multiverse. Batman seeks Hephaestus's forge for the Eighth Metal, but is told by Wonder Woman that the gods have abandoned Olympus. She gives him a weapon made of the Eighth Metal, the "Sunblade," from a vision Batman had. Hawkman's research focuses on Nth Metal, or "Ninth Metal," and its dark secrets

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