Category: DC Day

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DC Day Series: Is Batman A #Batgod Or A #Batninja?

 

DC DAY SERIES

Batman, The God of Knowledge. DC Comics.

Batman Day is September 17th. Let’s celebrate this superhero.

IN POWER LEVEL

INTRO

Over his long storied history, Batman has been incarnated in various media: comic, live-action series and movies, video games, radio and more. Importantly, what has seized the fans’ imagination seems to have been the Dark Knight’s tortured but disciplined humanity.

Though Batman may have demons, he always seems to come out on top. And he always comes to a battle prepared with ten moves ahead.

However, Batman seems to consistently outperform metahumans, gods and cosmic beings. What is Batman’s formidability in battles?

The TV Regent

#BATGOD OR #BATNINJA?

Batman Begins. WB.

In his titanic battles, Batman has out-performed DC powerhouses.

And at the same time, he has struggled with his rogues and criminal masterminds.

Two factors that seem to determine the outcome of Batman’s fights is preparation and the level of unpredictability.

From our previous article, we continue the central question of our series:

Does his preparation bring out the best in Batman making him a #Batgod?

Or does unpredictability affect his formidability making Batman a #Batninja?

*This image is copyright-reserved to James on Flickr and is titled Brooding Batman.

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

OUR POLL

So far, the Twitter audience has given one vote to Bat vs Bane.

Let’s look at four instances of Batman’s battles and explain how they affect whether they are #Batgod or #Batninja.

 

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#BATGOD OR #BATNINJA?

#BATNINJA: BATMAN VS BANE

Notoriously, Bane is famous for being the one who physically and mentally dominated Batman.

In Batman: Knightfall, the supervillain orchestrates the downfall of the Dark Knight.

Masterfully, the hulk frees the criminals from Arkham Asylum.

Then, it is up to Batman to capture and return them. However, the process proves very difficult.

Even more, Batman’s relationships are tested and he decides to take on the Herculean task by himself.

With little preparation and due to the rogues’ sheer number, Batman is taken near exhaustion.

Ultimately, Bane defeats Batman and iconicly breaks his back.

Definitely, Bane’s mental and physical superiority prove unpredictability makes Batman a #Batninja.

In Batman (1993) #497, Bane breaks Batman’s back. DC Comics.

#BATGOD: BATMAN VS SUPERMAN

Perhaps, one of the greatest battles in comicdom. Over the years, Batman and Superman have fought.

Though each have had their victories. At the same time, Batman has shown why he is ultimately a #Batgod.

Indeed, one of the Dark Knight’s greatest strengths, is his preparation before his missions.

In fact, Batman is a tactical genius who evens the odds with preparation, tactics, martial arts and technology.

Certainly, Batman succeeds in putting up a fight against the Kryptonian because he knows how his opponent thinks.

In most fights, unless Superman were bloodlusted, the outcome would be a draw.

In 'Batman' (2003) #612, Batman punches a mind-controlled Superman with a Kryptonite ring.
In Batman (2003) #612, Batman punches a mind-controlled Superman with a Kryptonite ring. DC Comics.

#BATNINJA: BATMAN VS JOKER

Indeed, Joker is Batman’s nemesis. In many respects, many of the Detective’s rogues have mental instability.

In the recent The Joker War (2020), the Clown Prince of Crime decides to take over Wayne Enterprises.

In fact, in order to force Batman to reveal his secret identity.

Dramatically, Joker manages to take over Gotham City in order to wage war.

On multiple occasions, authors have wondered why Batman does not permanently end his rivalry.

Partly, it is because Joker’s insanity creates unpredictability.

At his heart, the Detective is a scientist who seeks to control Gotham City and end crime.

For these reasons, Joker contradicts everything Batman seeks to achieve.

Definitely, Joker makes Batman a #Batninja.

'The Joker War' Part One.
The Joker War Part One. DC Comics.

#BATGOD: BATMAN VS MAN-BAT

To begin, Man-Bat’s first appearance in DC continuity is in Detective Comics (1970) #400.

In the New 52, Kirk Langstrom is originally a scientist with good alignment.

Indeed, he attempts to develop a serum to help the deaf and the blind. But he develops the Man-Bat serum by accident.

In Detective Comics (2014) #26, Batman outwits Kirk Langstrom.

In order to save his wife from her Man-Bat transformations, Batman tricks Kirk.

Indeed, he administers the scientist with his own counter-serum, telling him it is a sedative.

When his wife fights them, Kirk drops the sedative. However, Kirk transforms into Man-Bat and bites her.

Soon, the bite injects the sedative reverting her transformation.

And depending on your opinion, Batman is either a #Batgod or #Batninja.

However, Batman punches Man-Bat to revert him into Kirk. Definitely a #Batgod.

In 'Batman/Superman: Annual' (2015) #2, Batman fights Man-Bat.
In Batman/Superman: Annual (2015) #2, Batman fights Man-Bat. DC Comics

Please see our JLA Big Seven article on Batman’s formidability rating. Ultimately, we disagree with the user and state that Batman is properly speaking a #Batgod.

 

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THAT FAMOUS BAT-KICK

In Batman, ‘Batman vs The Incredible Hulk’ #1, we rated Batman’s notorious Bat-kick in the DC/Marvel crossover from the 1980s.

Given Hulk’s tough skin and “oversized lungs”, no one outside of at least a Metahuman Level in Strength Class could have caused Hulk’s reflex.1

Evidently, Batman kicked Hulk at a pressure point, the solar plexus.

In terms of Strength Level, Hulk’s oversized lungs would have necessitated a Planetary Level of Super Strength in order to gasp for air.

For this reason, we can state that the Bat-kick likely required #Batninja Fighting Skills with chi manipulation.

Or blame it on Deus Ex Machina.

LINKS

Batman: Knightfall in DC Database.
The Joker War in DC Database.
Detective Comics Vol 2 26 in DC Database.
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DC Day Series: Batman Is Plagued By Femme Fatales (And “Hush”)

 

DC DAY SERIES

In 'Batman' (2003) #610, Batman and Catwoman share a kiss under the full moon in Gotham City.
In Batman (2003) #610, Batman and Catwoman share a kiss. DC Comics

Celebrating Batman Day? For the comic, click on the Amazon product image below to purchase the Hardcover comic.

IN ROMANCE

INTRO

Over his long storied history, Batman has been incarnated in various media: comic, live-action series and movies, video games, radio and more. Importantly, what has seized the fans’ imagination seems to have been the Dark Knight’s tortured but disciplined humanity. Though Batman may have demons, he always seems to come out on top. And he always comes to a battle prepared with ten moves ahead.

However, in the romance department Batman seems to consistently fail to form lasting relationships. Since DC Universe Rebirth, has that changed? Let’s explain.

The TV Regent

#BATGOD OR #BATNINJA?

Batman Begins. WB.

In his multiple relationships, Batman has always seemed to remain aloof. In addition, he has struggled with trust and the ability to manage both his romantic relationships and his crusading as the Dark Knight.

From our previous article, we continue the central question of our series: Do his relationships with his femme fatales, bring out the best in Batman making him a #Batgod, or the worst in Batman making him a #Batninja?

*This image is copyright-reserved to James on Flickr and is titled Brooding Batman.

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

OUR POLL

So far, the Twitter audience has given one vote to Talia Al Ghul.

Let’s look at four of Batman’s femme fatales and explain how they affect whether they are #Batgod or #Batninja.

 

VISIT THE SUPERHERO DAY PAGE

BATMAN’S FEMME FATALES

BAT-NINJA: TALIA AL GHUL

Perhaps, one of Batman’s most dangerous loves. In fact, Talia Al Ghul loves and is loyal to two men: Her father Ra’s Al Ghul and Batman her lover. Without a doubt, her loyalty to her father has often caused conflict with Batman. In Tower of Babel, she breached Batman’s trust in order to steal his contingency plans and attacks the JLA. Later, Robin: Son of Batman popularized in Damian Wayne’s solo title the truth he was Batman’s and Talia al Ghul’s.

For years, Talia hid his existence from the boy’s father. Moreover, she trained Damian in the League of Asssassins. Also, to complicate matters, in Deathstroke vs Batman, Talia arranged for Damian’s false paternity tests in order to start a feud between the rivals. Though Talia has helped Batman on many occasions, she definitely brings the worst in him. Definitely, Batman is her Bat-ninja.

In 'Deathstroke' (2018) #30, Batman fights Deathstroke.
In Deathstroke (2018) #30, Batman fights Deathstroke. DC Comics.

BAT-GOD: WONDER WOMAN

Really, this relationship has remained more of an infatuation and respect than anything else. Within the Trinity, Wonder Woman has held a close bond with Batman and perhaps, a closer one with Superman. In fact, the Superman-Wonder Woman romance takes its starting point from their impossible romance while fighting a thousand years in Valhalla.

For their part, Wonder Woman seems drawn to Batman’s decisiveness, mystery and solitude. During their battles, they naturally grew close together. During “JLA: Obsidian Age,” they even shared a kiss. However, nothing long-lasting came of it. For their mutual respect and burgeoning romance, Wonder Woman definitely makes Batman into a Bat-god.
In JLA (2002) #74, Batman and Wonder Woman share a kiss. DC Comics.

BAT-NINJA: POISON IVY

Perhaps, a strong contender for Batman’s most passionate flame. Initially, Batman mistook his feelings for Pamela Isley as love. In reality, as a chlorokinetic, Poison Ivy can manipulate men’s and women’s emotions with pheromones. On many occasions, Poison Ivy has attempted to kill the Dark Knight.

On other instances, she has longed for a relationship with him. In Feat: Batman, Batman: Gotham Knights #64, we explain how Batman cured Pamela Isley of her chlorokinesis. Later, the two would have a relationship that ended on Pamela’s suicide attempt. Definitely, Pamela brings the worst in the Caped Crusader as her Bat-ninja.
In Batman: Legends Of The Dark Knight (1993) #43, Poison Ivy’s kiss causes Batman to hallucinate. DC Comics.

BAT-GOD: CATWOMAN

Over 82 years of shared history, Catwoman has been the relationship that has suited Batman the best. At times tense, at times passionate. Also, at times supportive, at times cheating. At the same time, though they ultimately did not trust each other in Hush, their relationship blossomed over the years. In Tom King’s DC Rebirth run on Batman (2016), Batman actually proposes to Catwoman.

Certainly, a monumental shift which even leads to her pregnancy. However, the pair ends up not marrying. Nonetheless, it appears Catwoman has been a constant in the Bat-family and continues to support the Bat in times of need. Definitely, Batman is Catwoman’s Bat-god and their relationship truly helps both.

In 'Batman' (2003) #610, Batman and Catwoman share a kiss under the full moon in Gotham City.
In Batman (2003) #610, Batman and Catwoman share a kiss. DC Comics

 

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THAT FAMOUS BAT-KICK

In Batman, ‘Batman vs The Incredible Hulk’ #1, we rated Batman’s notorious Bat-kick in the DC/Marvel crossover from the 1980s.

Given Hulk’s tough skin and “oversized lungs”, no one outside of at least a Metahuman Level in Strength Class could have caused Hulk’s reflex.1 Evidently, Batman kicked Hulk at a pressure point, the solar plexus.

In terms of Strength Level, Hulk’s oversized lungs would have necessitated approximately a Planetary Level of Super Strength in order to gasp for air.

For this reason, in order to save appearances, we can state that the Bat-kick likely required Bat-ninja Fighting Skills with chi manipulation. Or blame it on Deus Ex Machina.

NEXT: RESPECT BATMAN. MARCH 7TH.

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DC Day Series: Scratch That Origin Story! Batman Is A Meta!

 

DC DAY SERIES

'The Joker War' Part One.
The Joker War Part One. DC Comics.

Celebrating Batman Day? For the comic, click on the Amazon product image below to purchase the Kindle or Comixology comic.

IN POWER LEVEL

INTRO

Over his long storied history, Batman has been incarnated in various media: comic, live-action series and movies, video games, radio and more. Importantly, what has seized the fans’ imagination seems to have been the Dark Knight’s tortured but disciplined humanity. Though Batman may have demons, he always seems to come out on top. And he always comes to a battle prepared with ten moves ahead.

Let’s delve into why Batman’s Strength Class is properly speaking a Metahuman.

The TV Regent

SCRATCH THAT ORIGIN STORY

Batman Begins. WB.

What truly makes Batman special is the fact he really is a human. Through sheer determination and fanatic discipline, he conquers seemingly unsurmountable obstacles. Such as assassins, mad scientists, alien powerhouses, gods and magical beings. Yet, if he is undeniably human, his strength level indicates he belongs with the metahumans. What does this mean?

*This image is copyright-reserved to James on Flickr and is titled Brooding Batman.

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

OUR POLL

RESPONSES FROM TWITTER USERS

Properly speaking, the Twitter audience is correct. In terms of speed and durability Batman is undeniably a Peak Human-Level.

However, how does he defeat metahumans and teams of metahumans, with or without preparation? Let’s explain!

 

'Superman/Batman' (2003) #3.
In Superman/Batman: Public Enemies, Superman and Batman take on the DC Universe.

For the animated movie, click on the Amazon product image below to purchase the Blu-Ray.

CHECK OUT THE STORY: Why Doctor Doom Is Marvel’s Greatest Villain

BAT-GOD OR BAT-NINJA?

First, one ability that Bruce Wayne possesses is his Genius-Level intellect. With his expertises in criminology, psychology, chemistry, biology, forensics and computer engineering Batman is able to devise scientific solutions to problems from small to larger scales. For this reason, he has often been called Bat-god. At the same time, Batman is a master strategist.

With preparedness, he is able to dismantle an organization and defeat a metahuman, god or demon. In many respects, this is a function of the Dark Knight’s mastery of all martial arts disciplines on Earth, his expertise with mysticism, magic and the supernatural. For this reason, he has often been called Bat-ninja. Properly speaking, read below why the Caped Crusader is actually a Bat-ninja.

In 'Batman' (2002) #608, Batman has to fight Killer Croc in order to save Edward Lamont IV and recover the ransom money.
In Batman (2002) #608, Batman has to fight Killer Croc in order to save Edward Lamont IV and recover the ransom money. DC Comics.

THAT FAMOUS BAT-KICK

In Batman, ‘Batman vs The Incredible Hulk’ #1, we rated Batman’s notorious Bat-kick in the DC/Marvel crossover from the 1980s.

Given Hulk’s tough skin and “oversized lungs”, no one outside of at least a Metahuman Level in Strength Class could have caused Hulk’s reflex.1 Evidently, Batman kicked Hulk at a pressure point, the solar plexus.

In terms of Strength Level, Hulk’s oversized lungs would have necessitated approximately a Planetary Level of Super Strength in order to gasp for air.

For this reason, in order to save appearances, we can state that the Bat-kick likely required Bat-ninja Fighting Skills with chi manipulation. Or blame it on Deus Ex Machina.

NEXT: BATMAN IS A VIGILANTE PLAGUED BY FEMME FATALES. FEBRUARY 7TH.

FOOTNOTES

  1. Batman vs The Incredible Hulk #1.
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DC Day: It’s Official! In His Thirst For Vengeance Against The Third Horseman, Black Adam Became A Genocidal Maniac By Killing Every Man, Woman And Child In Bialya

 

DC DAY
In ’52’ (2007) #45, Black Adam massacres every man, woman and child in Bialya grieved over Isis’s death caused by the Third Horseman. Photo/DC Comics

IN DC MULTIVERSE

ISIS WAS GIFTED TO BLACK ADAM AS “THE MOST BEAUTIFUL VIRGIN IN ALL OF EGYPT”

In 52, we witness the rise and fall of Black Adam, from monarch and husband to genocidal maniac. In ’52’ (2006) #3, two representatives of Intergang Noose and Rough House offer Black Adam “the most beautiful virgin in all of Egypt” in exchange for safe passage to Kandhaq for arms smuggling. Black Adam responds by crushing Noose’s face. Her name is Adrianna Tomaz. In ’52’ (2006) #12, Adrianna helps Black Adam calm his violent temper and shows him how to use his powers to help others.

Black Adam and Adrianna travel by a secret passageway to the Rock of Eternity. There, they find Captain Marvel who has become the new Shazam and who is being driven mad by the Seven Deadly Sins. Black Adam shows Captain Marvel the scarab that had imprisoned him for centuries and tells that he intends to give the power of a hero contained within to Adrianna. Adam tells Adrianna she is worthy of the power. At first, she hesitates then she accepts. She becomes… Isis. Black Adam and Isis both set out to change the world.
In ’52’ (2006) #12, Black Adam uses the power of the scarab to transform Adrianna Tomaz into Isis. Photo/DC Comics

OSIRIS’ CROCODILE HE BEFRIENDED, WAS THE FOURTH HORSEMAN… HE CAUSED A BLIGHT ACROSS KHANDAQ KILLING ISIS, BLACK ADAM’S WIFE, AND BITING OSIRIS IN HALF

In 52, Black Adam eventually married Isis, though foreshadowing his fall into a genocidal maniac. Osiris who belonged to the Black Marvel family, befriended a crocodile he named Sobek. In ’52’ (2007) #43, a blight swept upon Khandaq with pouring rain that caused plants to wither and die.

People started rioting in the streets and Black Adam was powerless to stop it. Osiris believes his super powers are a curse. Sobek asks Osiris to speak the magic words. Osiris agress and speaks the magic words: “Black Adam” reverting to a mortal state.1 At that moment, Sobek’s eyes glow red and he attacks Osiris, biting him in half.

 
In ’52’ (2007) #44, Black Adam and Isis battle the Four Horsemen. Photo/DC Comics

In ’52’ (2007) #44, Black Adam and Isis battle the Four Horsemen. Sobek reveals himself to be the Yurrd the Unknown, The Fourth Horseman or Famine. Isis retorts that they loved Sobek and that they had accepted the creature into the Black Marvel Family. At this time, the other three Horsemen reveal themselves. They reveal they are responsible for Khandaq’s misfortunes. It is a result of Black Adam’s rejection of Intergang’s safe passage in Khandaq.

A battle follows during which Zorrm, the Horseman of Pestilence putrefies Isis with disease. Having finished off War, Black Adam attacks Death only for Isis to repel Death with lava. Black Adam rushes to Isis’ side and she tells him to “avenge us.”2 Isis dies of disease and her power returns to Black Adam with a bolt of lightning. The fall of Black Adam commences into his madness as a genocidal maniac.
In ’52’ (2007) #44, Black Adam is bloodthirsty over Isis’s death and seeks to avenge her. Photo/DC Comics

CHECK OUT THE STORY: IN THE EVENTS OF ‘SUPERMAN: SACRIFICE’, WONDER WOMAN KILLS MAXWELL LORD IN COLD BLOOD.

INTERESTED IN BLACK ADAM? CLICK ON WORLD WAR III #1 TO BUY THE COMIC ON AMAZON.

BLACK ADAM IS OFFICIALLY A GENOCIDAL MANIAC: SEEKING DEATH, HE MURDERED EVERY MAN, WOMAN AND CHILD IN BIALYA
In ’52’ (2007) #45, Black Adam massacres every man, woman and child in Bialya grieved over Isis’s death caused by the Third Horseman. Photo/DC Comics

DO YOU WANT TO FIND OUT HOW BLACK ADAM’S MURDEROUS RAMPAGE ENDED? CLICK ON ’52’ #46 BELOW TO PURCHASE THE COMIC ON AMAZON.

LINKS

52 Vol 1 45 in DC Database.
52 Vol 1 3 in DC Database.
52 Vol 1 12 in DC Database.
52 Vol 1 43 in DC Database.
52 Vol 1 44 in DC Database.
Teth-Adam (New Earth) in DC Database.

FOOTNOTES

  1. 52 #43.
  2. 52 #44.
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DC Day: Superman vs Black Adam

Superman and Black Adam battling with lightning striking Superman on the front cover of 'Action Comics #831'.
 
In 'Action Comics' (2005) #831, Superman battles Black Adam.
In ‘Action Comics’ (2005) #831, Superman battles Black Adam. Photo/DC Comics
Look! The Daily Planet logo with the Earth globe at the center.

DAILY PLANET EXCLUSIVE

Today, we talk about a battle of epic proportions! The Man of Steel has faced overwhelming foes over his superhero life. Let’s take a look and examine a battle that is sure to rock the Earth and crack the moon! I am talking about a battle royale between Superman and Black Adam. Can the Last Son of Krypton defeat the former Champion of the Egyptian gods?

DATABASE FILES

In 'Action Comics #831' (2005), Superman confronts Black Adam over his protection of the villain Doctor Psycho.
In ‘Action Comics (2005) #831, Superman confronts Black Adam over his protection of the villain Doctor Psycho. Photo/DC Comics

In ‘Action Comics #831‘ (2005), Superman confronts Black Adam over his protection of the villain Doctor Psycho. A battle ensues.

In 'Action Comics (2005) #831, Superman confronts Black Adam over his protection of the villain Doctor Psycho.
In ‘Action Comics (2005) #831, Superman confronts Black Adam over his protection of the villain Doctor Psycho. Photo/DC Comics

It appears that the Man of Steel and Black Adam are evenly matched in the strength, speed, and endurance departments. Their energy projection is dependable with Superman holding an edge.

It appears that the Man of Steel and Black Adam are evenly matched in the strength, speed, and endurance departments.
It appears that the Man of Steel and Black Adam are evenly matched in the strength, speed, and endurance departments. Photo/DC Comics

In the fight, Superman’s vulnerability to magic does not seem to be put in display. Black Adam holds back due to a simple misunderstanding between the two.

Superman is not holding back. He attacks with “a punch that would have split the moon in half.” Black Adam turns his back. Superman relinquishes the attack!

Superman is not holding back. He attacks with "a punch that would have split the moon in half."
Superman is not holding back. He attacks with “a punch that would have split the moon in half.” Photo/DC Comics

In the end, Doctor Psycho removes his hold over the citizens of Metropolis. Black Adam promises to punish Doctor Psycho. Superman reveals his knowledge of Black Adam’s formation of the Secret Society of Super-Villains and promises to watch over them.

Visit ‘Action Comics #831‘ at DC Database.

FAN REACTION

How do fans feel about the battle? Vote below.

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DC Day: Super Flare vs Black Hole

 

Can a Super Flare Defeat a Black Hole?

In Superman #38, Superman in his battle with Ulysses unleashes the super flare, that releases all the energy stored in his cells and makes him human for 24 hours. Photo/DC Comics

In Superman #38, Superman in his battle with Ulysses unleashes the super flare, that releases all the energy stored in his cells and makes him human for 24 hours.

From IGN:

In the pages of today’s Superman #38, Superman’s discovered he has a new “super flare” power where he expels all of the energy in his cells to create a bright, powerful blast capable of incinerating everything within a quarter mile. The downside — aside from the mass destruction — is that using the super flare ability depletes his cells, essentially making Superman human for 24 hours.

– ‘Superman’s New Super Flare Power and Costume Revealed’, IGN

During his fight with Ulysses, a meta-human who can absorb energy, Superman blasted Ulysses with heat vision that Ulysses absorbed which resulted in Superman unleashing his Super Flare, as he started to glow. (Superman’s New Super Flare Power and Costume Revealed)

The fight resulted in the destruction of Superman’s armor costume in the New 52 multiverse which was created as a Kryptonian nano-tech armor that would cover his body, and the creation of a new costume.

At the end of the comic book, Superman reveals his secret identity to Jimmy Olsen: “I’m Superman Jim.”

In Superman #38, at the end of the comic book, Superman reveals his secret identity to Jimmy Olsen: “I’m Superman Jim.” Photo/DC Comics

Can a Super Flare Defeat a Black Hole?

In JLA Vol 1 #77 (2003), Superman holds ” a black hole no bigger than a speck of dust that is contained by a magnetic field”. Photo/DC Comics

In JLA Vol 1 #77 (2003), Superman holds ” a black hole no bigger than a speck of dust that is contained by a magnetic field”. The black hole is named Mnemon, it steals memories and causes the Justice League to fight among itself. Superman contains the black hole and with the help of Green Lantern John Stewart flies it “to a desolate stretch of space and hurl[s] it away.” (JLA Vol 1 77)