Forever Evil: Arkham War #1 2013 NM-

Forever Evil: Arkham War #1 (2013) initiates a battle royale for control of Gotham City among Batman's villains after the Justice League disappears and the Crime Syndicate takes over the world. With no Dark Knight to protect the city, Bane, the Scarecrow, the Penguin, and others vie for power. 

Story Synopsis

The issue begins during the global eclipse caused by Ultraman of the Crime Syndicate, leaving the world, and specifically Gotham, in darkness and disarray. Blackgate Penitentiary and Arkham Asylum have simultaneously released their inmates onto the streets. 

• Bane's Arrival and Takeover of Blackgate: Bane, having returned to Gotham with his own army, infiltrates Blackgate Penitentiary through the sewers, where the power has been cut off. He quickly defeats the remaining authority and establishes control of the prison, forcing the interim warden to reveal its secrets.
• The Talons: Bane discovers the cryogenic storage where the captive Talons of the Court of Owls are kept. He immediately plans to use these assassins as his personal army to crush the other villains who have claimed territory in Gotham.
• Scarecrow's Alliance Building: Meanwhile, the Scarecrow acts as a leader for the "Arkhamites" (the villains from Arkham Asylum), who have carved the city into various districts. He attempts to recruit Professor Pyg and the Penguin to his cause, warning them of Bane's imminent invasion and desire for complete control.
• Penguin's Scheme: The Penguin (Mayor Oswald Cobblepot during this time) is playing both sides. He has already devised a way to ensure his own survival and profit, even offering to trade information about the Arkham inmates' plans with Bane in exchange for favors.
• The Declaration of War: The issue sets the stage for a three-way war between the Blackgate forces led by Bane, the Arkham Asylum inmates under the Scarecrow's nominal leadership, and the self-serving Penguin. By the end of the issue, Bane's forces begin their march across the city, claiming territory from the other escapees. 

Creative Team

• Writer: Peter J. Tomasi
• Artist: Scot Eaton & Various
• Cover Artist: Jason Fabok