Swamp Thing # 0 2012 NM

Swamp Thing # 0, published on September 5, 2012 (with a November 2012 cover date), is a pivotal "Zero Month" issue for DC Comics’ The New 52 relaunch. Written by Scott Snyder and illustrated by Kano, the issue reimagines the hero’s origin by revealing a deeper, more malicious connection between Alec Holland and his arch-nemesis, Anton Arcane. 

"To Monsters" 

The story is primarily told from the terrifying perspective of Anton Arcane, the avatar of The Rot (death and decay). 

• Arcane’s Legacy: The issue reveals that throughout history, Arcane has hunted and slaughtered the champions of The Green (plant life) and The Red (animal life).
• The Sabotage: In a major departure from classic lore, it is revealed that Arcane was directly responsible for the explosion in Alec Holland’s secret Louisiana lab. He purposely sabotaged Holland's research and destroyed his flesh to ensure the scientist could never truly become a savior for The Green.
• The Transformation: By causing the fire, Arcane inadvertently triggered the transformation of Alec Holland into the Swamp Thing, though he claims the "ruined" flesh now belongs to The Rot.
• The Climax: The issue concludes by setting the stage for the massive "Rotworld" crossover event, establishing Arcane as a threat so absolute that even previous plant elementals were helpless against him. 
• Alec Holland: In this continuity, he is the newest champion of The Green who initially resists his role as the Swamp Thing.
• Anton Arcane (Prime Earth): This issue serves as the first appearance of the New 52's version of the character.
• Jack Crow: A brief flashback introduces a previous avatar of The Green from the turn of the 20th century known as the "Green Man". 
• Writer: Scott Snyder.
• Artist: Kano.
• Cover Artist: Yanick Paquette and Nathan Fairbairn.