Forever Evil # 5 2014 NM-

Forever Evil #5 (released January 22, 2014) is a pivotal issue in the crossover event, focusing heavily on character dynamics, the formation of an unlikely alliance, and the mounting tension before the final confrontation with the Crime Syndicate.

Main Events

• The Injustice League Forms: This issue marks the official, albeit tense, formation of the team of villains led by Lex Luthor and Batman to fight the Crime Syndicate. The team includes Luthor, Batman, Catwoman, Captain Cold, Black Adam, Sinestro, and Black Manta. They gather at Luthor's base to plan their attack.
• Batman's Mission: The issue highlights Batman's solitary objective: to rescue the captive Justice League, particularly Nightwing (Dick Grayson). He puts aside his mistrust of Luthor to achieve this goal, making the two a highly volatile but effective pairing.
• The Hunt for Ultraman: The story reveals that the Crime Syndicate's Ultraman is severely weakened because his power source, Kryptonite, is being consumed by Bizarro. He is in desperate search of more Kryptonite to survive.
• Black Adam's War: Black Adam uses his powers to defend the nation of Kahndaq from the attacks of the Cheetah and her minions, demonstrating his independent strength and local concerns even as the world faces a global threat.
• Setting the Stage: The issue builds suspense as the disparate group prepares to assault the Crime Syndicate's headquarters in the fallen Justice League Watchtower. The interactions among the villains reveal their complex motivations and their temporary unity against a common, more ruthless enemy.
• Bizarro vs. Ultraman: The issue ends with Bizarro arriving at the location where Ultraman is in his weakened state, setting up a clash of the two Kryptonian-like characters.

This installment is primarily a "calm before the storm" issue, building momentum for the major battles in the final two issues of the series.