Green Lantern # 18 2007 VF/NM

Green Lantern #18 (2007) is a pivotal issue in the post-Infinite Crisis era, serving as a prelude to the "Sinestro Corps War" event. Released in May 2007, it is most notable for featuring the first appearances of key Sinestro Corps members and exploring the origins of the Star Sapphire. 

Plot and Storylines

The issue is split into two primary narratives:

• Mystery of the Star Sapphire, Part 1: The alien parasite known as the Star Sapphire seeks a new host, ultimately possessing Hal Jordan's fellow pilot and love interest, Jillian "Cowgirl" Pearlman. The story explores why the entity consistently seeks out those close to Hal.
• Tales of the Sinestro Corps: A backup feature titled "Despotellis Spreads Fear" introduces Lyssa Drak, the keeper of the Book of Parallax, and the sentient virus Despotellis. It details how Despotellis decimated the population of Sector 119, including its Green Lantern. 

Creative Team

The issue features high-profile creators who shaped the modern Green Lantern mythos:

• Writers: Geoff Johns (main story) and Dave Gibbons (backup).
• Artists: Daniel Acuña (main story pencils/inks/colors) and Dave Gibbons (backup pencils/inks).
• Cover Artists: Ivan Reis and Oclair Albert. 

Key Characters & Debuts

• First Appearance: Lyssa Drak, a major figure in the Sinestro Corps.
• First Appearance: Despotellis, the microscopic sentient virus.
• Transformation: Jillian "Cowgirl" Pearlman becomes a Star Sapphire for the first time.
• Featured: Hal Jordan, Carol Ferris, and Thomas Kalmaku.