Hawk & Dove # 2 1988 VF/NM

Hawk & Dove # 2, published in November 1988, is the second chapter of the five-issue miniseries that redefined the duo for the Modern Age. Written by Karl and Barbara Kesel with art by Rob Liefeld, it focuses on the internal friction between the new partners as they face their first major threat. 

Story Synopsis: "The Fine Art of Chaos" 

The issue continues the origin of the new partnership while escalating the mystical stakes of the series. 

• The Struggle for Control: Hank Hall (Hawk) is still grieving the death of his brother and is initially hostile toward Dawn Granger, the new female Dove. He views her presence as an insult to his brother’s memory.
• A Lesson in Order: Dawn attempts to prove her worth to Hank by demonstrating the defensive nature of her powers. Unlike the original Dove, she is more proactive and capable in combat, though she remains dedicated to the principles of peace and de-escalation.
• The Threat of Kestrel: The main antagonist, Kestrel, continues his hunt for the duo. Created by the Lords of Chaos specifically to corrupt Hawk and turn him into a weapon of pure destruction, Kestrel lures the pair into a violent confrontation.
• The Transformation: The issue explores the physical sensation of their transformation, showing how the "magic words" (Hawk! and Dove!) physically manifest their costumes and enhanced abilities only when danger is present. 

Creative Team & Legacy 

• Writers: Karl Kesel and Barbara Kesel.
• Artist: Rob Liefeld (Pencils) and Karl Kesel (Inks).
• Significance: This issue helped establish the "Order vs. Chaos" lore that became the backbone of the characters' mythology for decades. It also showcases Liefeld's early, high-energy style that would soon lead to the creation of characters like Deadpool and Cable at Marvel.