DC COMICS FOR FEBRUARY

Following are upcoming DC Comics' solicitations for February, with informmation coming from the company.

BATMAN TITLES

BATMAN #637

Written by Judd Winick, art by Doug Mahnke and Tom Nguyen, cover by Matt Wagner.

In Part 3 of the 4-part "Under the Hood," Batman gets wind of a massive -- and unique -- arms shipment on its way to Gotham. But who's behind it? Gotham's criminal kingpin, The Black Mask? The deadly new Red Hood? Or an even more sinister menace?

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Feb. 23.

DETECTIVE COMICS #803

Written by David Lapham and Mike Carey, art by Ramon Bachs and Nathan Massengill and John Lucas, cover by Lapham.

In Part 3 of David Lapham's 12-part "City of Crime," the Penguin learns Mr. Freeze may have betrayed him, just as a secret player threatens to bring the city to its knees. Plus, Part 3 of the 4-part backup tale "The Barker," by Mike Carey and John Lucas.

40 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 2.

BATMAN: GOTHAM KNIGHTS #62

Written by A.J. Lieberman, art by Al Barrionuevo and Bit, cover by Cliff Chiang.

When the mutated bodies of dead children begin appearing across Gotham, Batman is thrown into a race against time to find any survivors and learn the cause of their mutation! And Poison Ivy must find out why the only people who were ever kind to her are dying.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Feb. 16.

BATMAN: LEGENDS OF THE DARK KNIGHT #188

Written by Shane McCarthy, art by Tommy Castillo and Rodney Ramos, cover by Sean Phillips.

Part 4 of the 5-part "Riddle Me That!" The Riddler turns on the man who helped save him from drifting into oblivion: Professor Buttery. Can Batman save the doctor? And what nefarious plans lie behind the theft of a priceless artifact?

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Feb. 9.

BATMAN: WAR GAMES ACT ONE TP

Written by Ed Brubaker, Andersen Gabrych, Devin Grayson, Dylan Horrocks, A.J. Lieberman, and Bill Willingham; art by Ramon Bachs, Raul Fernandez, Al Barrionuevo, Francis Portela, Giuseppe Camuncoli, Lorenzo Ruggiero, Paul Gulacy, Jimmy Palmiotti, Kinsun, Mike Lilly, Andy Owens, Sean Phillips, Brad Walker, Troy Nixey, Pete Woods and Nathan Massengill; cover by James Jean.

The opening act of 2004's hit crossover starring Gotham City's heroes can be found in Batman: War Games Act One TP featuring an all-new cover by Eisner Award-winning artist James Jean. This volume includes Batman: The 12-Cent Adventure, Detective Comics #797, Batman #631, Batman: Legends Of The Dark Knight #182, Nightwing #96, Batman: Gotham Knights #56, Robin #129, Batgirl #55 and Catwoman #34.

A clash between Gotham's underworld families erupts into a wave of chaos that engulfs the city. Batman must use every available asset -- Oracle, Batgirl, Nightwing, Orpheus, Onyx and Tarantula -- to preserve life and contain the chaos.

208 pages, $14.95, in stores on Feb. 16.

BATGIRL #61

Written by Andersen Gabrych. art by Pop Mhan and Jesse Delperdang, cover by Mhan.

A major arms deal is going down in Blüdhaven, but that's nothing unusual. What is unusual is the players involved: the Brotherhood of Evil! Can Batgirl measure up against the shape-shifting Gemini, the super-simian Monsieur Mallah and the bad, bad Brain?

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Feb. 23.

BATMAN: THE MAN WHO LAUGHS

Written by Ed Brubaker, art and cover by Doug Mahnke.

A Prestige Format Special that tells the tale of the Dark Knight's first battle against his eventual archnemesis: The Joker. A mysterious homicidal maniac is killing prominent citizens of Gotham City, each time leaving an unusual calling card: a ghastly rictus grin plastered on the victims' lifeless faces. The Dark Knight Detective is on the case, and before long finds himself taking on the Clown Prince of Crime. This adventure establishes the conflict that rages to this day.

64 pages, $6.95, in stores on Feb. 9.

CATWOMAN: WHEN IN ROME #5

Written by Jeph Loeb, art and cover by Tim Sale.

The penultimate chapter in the enthralling murder mystery. Catwoman is coming dangerously close to finding out the truth about her past. But uncovering one secret too many could cost her all nine of her lives.

32 pages, $3.50, in stores on Feb. 23.

CATWOMAN #40

Written by Scott Morse, art and cover by Paul Gulacy and Jimmy Palmiotti.

In the conclusion to a 3-part story written by Scott Morse, Catwoman goes on the offensive! After being hunted and battered by Wooden Nickel, Catwoman wants some payback. But is Nickel more than a match for Catwoman's attack?

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Feb. 16.

ROBIN #135

Written by Bill Willingham, art and cover by Damion Scott.

Tim Drake is a marked man! The Penguin has put out an open contract on Robin, Blüdhaven's newest vigilante, attracting a flood of would-be assassins. And the first to answer the Penguin's call may be the deadliest: the Rising Sun Archer and the Dark Rider.

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Feb. 16.

GOTHAM CENTRAL #28

Written by Greg Rucka, art by Stefano Gaudiano, cover by Michael Lark.

When a group of children stumble onto the abandoned hideout of one of the DCU's most dangerous villains, Detectives Allen and Montoya take on the case with a cop's life hanging in the balance.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Feb. 9.

NIGHTWING #103

Written by Chuck Dixon and Scott Beatty, art and cover by Scott McDaniel and Andy Owens.

The biweekly 6-part story "Nightwing: Year One" continues! Dick Grayson has been fired from being Robin and struck out on his own -- directionless. But Dick's about to receive a visit from Deadman! What's Deadman's connection to the circus where Dick grew up?

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Feb. 9.

NIGHTWING #104

Written by Chuck Dixon and Scott Beatty, art and cover by Scott McDaniel and Andy Owens.

"Nightwing Year One," Part 4 of 6! The newly christened Nightwing hits the streets for the first time! But it'll take a night of crimefighting against Gotham's worst -- including the Joker -- to win Batgirl over. Plus, Nightwing's first encounter with the new Robin: Jason Todd!

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Feb. 23.

SUPERMAN TITLES

SUPERMAN #214

Written by Brian Azzarello, art and cover by Jim Lee and Scott Williams.

"For Tomorrow" continues! Just as it seems things can't possibly get any worse for the spent Man of Steel, he's embroiled in a fight to the finish with an age-old adversary! Meanwhile, devious plans have been set into motion, one of which involves Superman's closest confidante.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Feb. 23.

ACTION COMICS #824

Written by J.D. Finn, art by Ivan Reis and Marc Campos, cover by Ian Churchill.

It's Superman vs. Preus, with the fate of the world in the balance in this action-packed tale by guest writer J.D. Finn. Plus, find out what Doomsday has been up to as he hunts for the Man of Steel!

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Feb. 9.

ADVENTURES OF SUPERMAN #637

Written by Greg Rucka, art by Matthew Clark and Andy Lanning, cover by Brian Stelfreeze.

Ruin begins his search for Superman's loved ones, which puts Lois in danger again! Unbeknownst to Superman, one of those closest to him is RuinŠwho is it?

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Feb. 16.

SUPERMAN: STRENGTH #2

Written by Scott McCloud, art by Aluir Amancio and Terry Austin, cover by Alex Ross.

The Prestige Format mini-series. Before anyone knew the name "Superman," he was just Pa Kent's son Clark. The young boy tests his super-powers when he literally runs away from home and finds a world that's a far cry from Smallville.

48 pages, $5.95, in stores on Feb. 2.

SUPERMAN/BATMAN #18

Written by Jeph Loeb, art and cover by Carlos Pacheco and Jesus Merino

The senses-shattering conclusion of "Absolute Power." Superman and Batman confront the super-villains who have ripped apart time and fight to restore balance to the universe. But what will be the ultimate cost to The Man of Steel and The Dark Knight?

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 16.

SUPERMAN/BATMAN: SUPERGIRL HC

Written by Jeph Loeb, art and cover by Michael Turner.

Award-winner Jeph Loeb and the red-hot Michael Turner reintroduce a classic character into the DCU. This fantastic hardcover includes the entire "Supergirl from Krypton" storyline, originally presented in the best-selling Superman/Batman #8-13.

Batman has discovered something strange on the bottom of Gotham Bay which leads him to a mysterious and powerful teenaged girl who's bent on destroying Gotham City. What's her connection to Superman? Why does Wonder Woman want to hide her from the outside world? Will Darkseid succeed in recruiting her into doing his bidding? Plus, this volume includes an introduction by Loeb as well as a Kryptonian language translation key.

168 pages, $19.95, in tores on Feb. 23.

DC UNIVERSE TITLES

ADAM STRANGE #6

Written by Andy Diggle, art and cover by Pascal Ferry.

Adam Strange and the Omega Men discover the location of the missing planet Rann! But when death strikes from an unexpected quarter, they find themselves hunted by L.E.G.I.O.N. -- and even the quick-witted Adam Strange can't outwit Vril DoxŠor can he?

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 23.

AQUAMAN #27

Written by John Arcudi, art and cover by Patrick Gleason and Christian Alamy.

Ocean Master has taken over Aquaman's life, and the real Aquaman is now the Ocean Master. Chaos erupts as Aquaman realizes all is not as it seems, especially when a secret from his past comes back to haunt him in ways he could never have imagined.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Feb. 9.

ALL STAR COMICS ARCHIVES VOL. 11 HC

Written by John Broome, art by Arthur Peddy, Bernard Sachs, Frank Giacoia, and Bob Oksner, cover by Peddy and Sachs.

The adventures of the world's first super-team continue in this extra-sized final volume of the series at no extra cost. In Volume 11, collecting All Star Comics #50-57, the JSA face the Diamond Man, Mr. Alpha, and more.

276 pages, $49.95, in stores on Feb. 16.

BIRDS OF PREY #79

Written by Gail Simone, art and cover by Ed Benes.

It's Metropolis mayhem in "Hero Hunters," Part 4. Chaos rides the dark alleys of Superman's city as the Birds hunt the unpredictable and extremely dangerous Thorn.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Feb. 16.

BLOODHOUND #8

Written by Dan Jolley, art by Leonard Kirk and Robin Riggs, cover by Dave Johnson.

Clevenger faces the super-powered assassin Zeiss. Clev is drawn into the case of a small town beset by mysterious fires seemingly set by a demon from Hell.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 9.

BREACH #2

Written by Bob Harras, art by Marcos Martin and Alvaro Lopez, cover by Martin.

There's no rest for the weary as Breach struggles to adjust to his transformation, the loss of everyone he loved, and the incredible number of years that have passed him by. But his awakening last issue has not gone unnoticed. A mysterious breach in time/space opens in the plains of Africa, and someone -- or something -- is coming for him.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Feb. 9.

DEADSHOT #3

Written by Christos N. Gage, art by Steven Cummings amd Jimmy Palmiotti, cover by Mike Zeck and Jerry Ordway.

Deadshot and Green Arrow face off in Star City as the exciting miniseries continues! Plus, one of the hired hit man¹s old cronies shows up to complicate Deadshot's task of cleaning up the neighborhood for his newfound family.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 2.

DOOM PATROL #9

Written by John Byrne, art by Byrne and Doug Hazlewood, cover by Byrne.

While Nudge and Vortex try to save Grunt, Cliff and Rita face off against a very unlikely threat. Will their combined powers be enough to stop this morphing monster? Discover the origin of Grunt's and Nudge's relationship -- and the fate of the Negative Man.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores n Feb. 16.

FIRESTORM #10

Written by Dan Jolley, art by Jamal Igle and Rob Stull, cover by Matt Haley.

After the events of Identity Crisis, everyone thought Ronnie Raymond, the original Firestorm, was lost forever. But energy can't be destroyed, right? If Ronnie has returned, he may be just in time to die again -- at the hands of his old enemy Killer Frost.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Feb. 2.

GREEN ARROW #47

Written by Judd Winick, art by Tom Fowler and Rodney Ramos, cover by James Jean.

Brick, the stone-faced crimelord who overran the Star City underworld in "New Blood," is back with a vengeance! Plus, a mechanized menace called "the Texan" comes looking for a showdown with Team Green. Can Ollie and friends take out the El Pasan Assassin?

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Feb. 9.

THE FLASH #219

Written by Geoff Johns, art and cover by Howard Porter and Livesay.

Part 1 of "Truth or Dare," a 2-part crossover with the March-shipping Wonder Woman #214! The Cheetah has come to Keystone City in search of the man she believes can teach her to be faster: Zoom, the Reverse-Flash. And where the Cheetah is, Wonder Woman can't be far behind.

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Feb. 23.

THE FLASH: IGNITION TP

Written by Geoff Johns, art by Alberto Dose, Howard Porter and Livesay, cover by Porter and Livesay.

Where's the Flash? Find out in this collection of the thrilling story arc from The Flash #201-206! A series of bizarre incidents helps police mechanic Wally West discover that he is the Flash. Can he relearn his powers in time to solve a series of murders in Keystone City?

144 pages, $14.95, in stores on Feb. 9.

GREEN LANTERN: REBIRTH #5

Written by Geoff Johns, art and cover by Ethan Van Sciver.

The penultimate chapter of the stunning tale that restores Hal Jordan as Earth's Green Lantern. In this shocking issue, learn the final fate of Kyle Rayner. And as Hal Jordan's rebirth explodes across the DCU, the JLA continues its epic battle against one of the oldest powers in the Universe. But are the heroes prepared for the return of Hal Jordan, Green Lantern?

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 23.

HAWKMAN #37

Written by Justin Gray and Jimmy Palmiotti, art by Joe Bennett and Ruy José, cover by Ryan Sook.

Enemies from Hawkman's past lash out at him under the direction of The Fadeaway Man! Plus, the relationship between Carter and Kendra takes a startling turn as Hawkman comes face-to face with Lion-Mane.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Feb. 16.

JLA #111

Written by Kurt Busiek, art by Ron Garney and Dan Green, cover by Garney.

Part 5 of the 8-part "Syndicate Rules." The JLA arrive just in time to stop the Crime Syndicate of Amerika from reaching its goal, while the Qwardian super weapon rampages through the positive matter universe! Three worlds collide, forging an unexpected alliance.

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Feb. 9.

JLA CLASSIFIED #4

Written by Keith Giffen and J.M. DeMatteis, art and cover by Kevin Maguire and Joe Rubinstein.

A follow-up to Formerly Known As The Justice League begins as the second story arc of this hot new series! The 6-part "I Can't Believe It's Not the Justice League" begins innocently enough with the newly established "Super Buddies" open for business -- complete with their very own theme song. But things hit a sour note when a former foe opens a bar next door to their new "headquarters" in the strip mall downtown!.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 16.

JSA #70

Written by Geoff Johns, art by Don Kramer and Keith Champagne, cover by Dave Gibbons.

Part 3 of the 5-part "JSA/JSA," featuring a cover by Dave Gibbons. As the JSA of today attempts to inspire the JSA of the past, Stargirl struggles with Ted Knight's condition, Sand confronts his past, and the Atom heads down a dangerous road.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Feb. 9.

JUSTICE LEAGUE ELITE #8

Written by Joe Kelly, art and cover by Doug Mahnke and Tom Nguyen.

While half the team is on an undercover, intergalactic drug op, the other half struggles to find them before their cover is blown. Meanwhile, Vera's personality has cracked wide open, allowing her evil brother Manchester Black to make his move to destroy her version of the Elite. Plus, a member of the team makes the ultimate sacrifice.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Feb. 2.

JSA: PRINCE OF DARKNESS TP

Written by Geoff Johns and David S. Goyer, art by Leonard Kirk, Don Kramer, Sal Velluto and various, cover by Carlos Pacheco and Jesus Merino.

A new collection featuring JSA #46-55. Three of the JSA's deadliest foes band together to systematically destroy the team, clearing their way to crush mankind and rule the world. Can the JSA come together in what appears to be Earth's darkest hour?

256 pages, $19.95, in stores on Feb. 23.

THE LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES #3

Written by Mark Waid, art by Barry Kitson and Mick Gray, cover by Kitson.

View the Legion's secrets through three sets of eyes as Triplicate Girl takes center stage! Is she one girl who can split into three, three who can merge into one, or something even weirder?

40 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 23.

MANHUNTER #7

Written by Marc Andreyko, art by Jesus Saiz and Jimmy Palmiotti, cover by Saiz.

The super-villain trial of the year continues. The heroes who witnessed Firestorm's final fate take the stand, but Kate Spencer's strategy backfires. And the tabloids threaten to "out" her as Manhunter.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Feb. 16.

OUTSIDERS #21

Written by Judd Winick, art by Carlos D'Anda, cover by Doug Mahnke.

A shocking Identity Crisis follow-up guest-starring Batman and featuring guest art by Carlos D'Anda. Nightwing and Batman have a confrontation that could change the future of the team. Meanwhile, Arsenal has his own secret meeting with Batman that threatens to splinter the team forever.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Feb. 23.

THE QUESTION #4

Written by Rick Veitch, art and cover by Tommy Lee Edwards.

Guest-starring Superman. Operating furtively on the mean streets of Metropolis can't keep the Question hidden from the all-seeing eye of The Man of Steel. Plus, the Subterraneans put together the pieces of the Question's one-man war on their empire -- and target him for assassination.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 2.

SEVEN SOLDIERS #0

Written by Grant Morrison, art and cover by J.H. Williams.

A devastating global threat is on its way -- one never imagined nor prepared for. It consumes entire civilizations and leaves behind only ruins. It razed Camelot and bombed the Rama kingdoms back to dirt. It strip-mines and enslaves whole cultures. Its hunger is unstoppable; its origins, unspeakable. Now this devouring empire of cruelty-without-limits has set its sights on the treasures of the 21st century.

Like a plague of locusts, the terrifying Sheeda are returning to harvest the Earth. All that stands between our world and these destroyers are the mysterious "Seven Soldiers" of legend. Seven men and women with extraordinary abilities and big problems must lay their lives on the line for the future of humankind. Seven reluctant champions must arise and somehow work together to save the world...without ever meeting one another. How? Where? Who? There¹s only one way to find out.

In an ambitious new storytelling venture, writer Grant Morrison and a group of top artists combine their talents to redefine the super-hero concept for a new century. Entertainers, losers, victims, exiles, wannabes...the stars of Seven Soldiers are a long way from anyone's ideal of a traditional costumed hero. But they just may be our only chance of survival.

Who lives? Who dies? Who washes the dishes? Who betrays humankind to its once and future Enemy? Get the answers to these questions and many more in seven hard-hitting, fresh and wildly imaginative miniseries featuring Klarion, Mister Miracle, Frankenstein, Zatanna, The Guardian, Bulleteer and Shining Knight.

The Seven Soldiers saga comprises seven 4-issue miniseries and two bookend Specials -- all which may be read independently but combine to tell a colossal 30-part tale of death, betrayal, failure, joy, loss, romance, triumph and redemption. As a new generation of super-heroes grapples with a harsher, weirder world, Morrison combines dazzling super-hero action and serial fiction with horror, mystery, epic fantasy and gothic pulp to carve out a new corner in the DCU.

With a gigantic, interweaving cast of characters‹many drawn from DC's incomparable history and reimagined by Morrison and his collaborators‹Including vampire knights, crippled ex-super-heroes, subway pirates, puritan death machines, liquid nitrogen-blooded assassins, deathless Mafia dons, wounded gods, angry fiancées and talking winged horses, the universe of the Seven Soldiers is rich in wonder, drama and hardcore action.

This mega-series begins with a 38-page complete adventure, Seven Soldiers #0, that introduces readers to their twilight world and establishes plotlines that will reverberate throughout the entire megaseries.

In issue #0, illustrated by J.H. Williams III, Shelly Gaynor is the grand-daughter of Golden Age hero the Whip. She's revived the old family business and is turning her experiences as an urban crime-fighter into a best-selling book.

But when Shelly answers an ad to join the aging crimebuster Vigilante and his new team of "Seven Soldiers" in the hunt for an ancient monster haunting the deserts of the southwest, her super-hero dream becomes a terror-trip into the heart of an undying nightmare.

Seven Soldiers: A mystery spanning generations and millennia. A story unlike any other. Welcome to a whole new world in the DC Universe.

48 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 23.

SOLO #3

Written by Paul Pope, art and cover by Pope.

THB's Paul Pope goes it alone in Solo #3. Pope begins with an ancient Greek myth, then re-imagines the classic origin of Omac and shares a personal tale. Pope also presents a slice of the Big Apple and concludes with "Teenage Sidekick," in which a captured Dick Grayson, as Robin, must struggle to escape the Joker.

48 pages, $4.95, in stores on Feb. 23.

RICHARD DRAGON #10

Written by Chuck Dixon, art by Brad Walker and Andy Owens, cover by Scott McDaniel and Owens,

The ultimate kung-fu fighter vs. the ultimate evil. Neron, the unstoppable demonic powerbroker of "Underworld Unleashed," has taken an unholy interest in Richard Dragon, and that places our hero's already-tainted soul is one step closer to annihilation.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Feb. 23.

TEEN TITANS #21

Written by Geoff Johns, art by Mike McKone and Marlo Alquiza.

Part 1 of the 3-part "Lights Out," an Identity Crisis follow-up story. Doctor Light has forced the Titans' hand and staged a publicized battle with the young heroes to take back his reputation. But as the Titans fall, help arrives in the form of two young heroes. Get ready for the debut of the new Hawk and Dove.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Feb. 16.

WONDER WOMAN #213

Written by Greg Rucka, art by James Raiz and Ray Snyder, cover by J.G. Jones.

It's war on Olympus as Wonder Woman is embroiled in the battle between Zeus and Athena! With her gods as an audience, Diana must face the threat of Zeus' bodyguard -- the 50-headed, 100-armed monster called Briareos. Next issue crosses over with The Flash #219.

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Feb. 23.

JOHNNY DC TITLES

THE BATMAN STRIKES! #6

Written by Bill Matheny, art by Christopher Jones and Terry Beatty, cover by Jeff Matsuda.

Priceless diamonds are being stolen in Gotham City, and the cops are hot on the trail of Catwoman for the crime. The Batman knows she¹s innocent, but he may not be able to stop the policeŠ and no one may be able to stop the laser-wielding thieves behind the crimes.

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Feb. 9.

JUSTICE LEAGUE UNLIMITED #6

Written by Adam Beechen, art by Carlo Barberi and Walden Wong, cover by Ben Caldwell.

John Stewart and Green Arrow encounter an old member of the Green Lantern Corps as they fight a trio of alien invaders. Will this elderly Lantern be able to help them defeat their foes, or is he too out of touch with reality?

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Feb. 2.

TEEN TITANS GO! #16

Written by J. Torres, art by Mike Norton and Lary Stucker, cover by Sean Galloway.

Starfire happens upon a lost, baby Wildebeest while visiting the "Mall of Shopping" and decides to look for the missing child¹s parents. A naive alien teenager and a tiny terror together in a mall? That's a recipe for disaster.

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Feb. 23.

CARTOON NETWORK BLOCK PARTY #6

Written by Tom Warburton, Jim Alexander, Jono Howard and John Rozum, art by Scott Underwood, Angus Bungay, and Mike Wetterhahn and Tim Chi Ly, cover by Robert Pope.

Courage defends his master from the scariest thing ever, and the Eds grow a garden of great big trouble! Plus, Johnny Bravo and the Kids Next Door.

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Feb. 23.

LOONEY TUNES #123

Written by Frank Strom, Scott Cunningham, Earl Kress and Sam Agro, art by David Alvarez, Neal Sternecky and Walter Carzon, Mike DeCarlo, Scott McRae and Ruben Torreiro, cover by Alvarez and DeCarlo.

Wile E. Coyote tries to catch Roadrunner with a little time travel. Plus, Duck Dodgers, Witch Hazel and daydreamer Ralph Phillips.

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Feb. 2.

POWERPUFF GIRLS #59

Written by Amy Rogers and Ivan Velez Jr., art by Phil Moy, Ricardo Garcia Fuentes and Mike DeCarlo, cover by Christopher Cook and DeCarlo.

When the rivalry between Mojo Jojo and Him gets too hot, the Girls step in to save the day.

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Feb. 16.

SCOOBY-DOO #93

Written by John Rozum and Sholly Fisch, art by Leo Batic, John McCrea and Horacio Ottolini, cover by Robert Pope and Dave Hunt.

Three Scoobyrific adventures in this issue! Golf course ghouls, mansion mazes, and...Velma's got a crush?

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Feb. 9.

SCOOBY-DOO VOL. 3: ALL WRAPPED UP TP

Written by Chris Duffy, Terrance Griep, Michael Kraiger, Michael Kupperman, Matt Wayne; art by Bill Alger, Mike DeCarlo, Manny Galan, Tim Harkins, Andrew Pepoy, Bob Smith, Joe Staton, cover by Staton.

The Mystery Machine gang is back for another two volumes' worth of hair-raising adventures with the pseudo-supernatural.

112 pages, $6.95, in stores on Feb. 23.

SCOOBY-DOO VOL. 4: THE BIG SQUEEZE TP

Written by Chris Duffy, Joe Edkin, Terrance Griep, Jesse Leon McCann, Paul S. Newman, John Rozum, Joe and Hilarie Staton; art by Dave Cooper, Dan Davis, Mike DeCarlo, John Delaney, Manny Galan, Tim Harkins, Scott McRae, Andrew Pepoy, Joe Staton, Rurik Tyler, cover by Staton and Pepoy

More adventures of the Scooby Gang in a manga-sized collection.

112 pages, $6.95, in stores on Feb. 23.

MAD #451

Written and illustrated by The Usual Gang of Idiots

Surprise your Valentine this year with a brand-spankin' new issue of MAD! Wait, who are we kidding? If you¹re reading MAD, there¹s no way you have a Valentine.

48 pages, black and white, $3.50.

MAD XL #32

Written and illustrated by The Usual Gang of Idiots

Another jam-packed issue of MAD XL, containing the Best of the Web, MAD Marginals XL, our featured Writer of the Month, more Readers' Choice picks and other fun features.

96 pages, black and white, $4.99, in stores on Feb. 9.

BEYOND THE DCU TITLES

ELFQUEST: THE GRAND QUEST VOL. 7 TP

Written by Wendy and Richard Pini, art and cover by Wendy Pini and Joe Staton.

Another chapter in the classic saga. The Wolfriders have settled into their new Holt in the Forbidden Grove. All is peaceful until Aroree, a fugitive Glider from Blue Mountain, kidnaps a Wolfrider child. Now the elves must once again confront the cold, vile Winnowill -- and the humans who worship her!.

224 pages, black and white, $9.95, in stores on Feb. 23.

ELRIC: MAKING OF A SORCERER #3

Written by Michael Moorcock, art and cover by Walter Simonson.

The mini-series continues as Elric embarks on another dreamquest. This time, he must complete a trial to test his worthiness for the throne of Melniboné. But once Elric has proven himself, can he wrest control from his scheming cousin Yyrkoon?

48 pages, $5.95, in stores on Feb. 23.

SPACE GHOST #4

Written by Joe Kelly, art by Ariel Olivetti, cover by Alex Ross.

The amazing origin story of the renowned hero continues. Space Ghost must protect Jan and Jayce from Zorak. But who will protect him once Zorak makes a pact with the peacekeepers?

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 16.

TOE TAGS FEATURING GEORGE ROMERO #5

Written by George Romero, art by Tommy Castillo and Rodney Ramos, cover by Bernie Wrightson.

Zombies attack! As a growing rift between the leaders of the armies of the dead threatens to send their demonic forces into chaos, Damion Cross tries to turn the tide of battle for humanity. Will his efforts be enough to stay the overwhelming hordes of walking dead?

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 2.

MUSASHI NUMBER NINE VOL. 2

Written by Takahashi Miyuki, art by Miyuki,

CMX. The second volume of Musashi Number Nine is short on words, but not on action. She fearlessly takes on terrorists and other criminals in the name of peace. Little is known about the organization of super-agents she works with, but when the world is in danger and all else fails, they will be there. In this volume, Musashi Number Nine is sent to neutralize terrorists threatening a cruise missile strike on Tokyo. The terrorists have a clear advantage with hostages in tow, while their launch site is miles away. The countdown has begun, and only Musashi knows the answer... 192 pages, black and white, $9.95, in stores on Feb. 9.

SWAN VOL. 2

Written by Ariyoshi Kyoko, art by Kyoko.

CMX. The popular Japanese shojo saga Swan continues as Masumi wins a spot in the company...but can she keep it? Masumi has survived the rigorous competition and won a place in the National Ballet School. But just as she resolves to work hard and stay focused, a handsome new foreign student arrives. Will this newcomer support her quest to develop as a dancer, or will romantic entanglements become a distraction?

208 pages, black and white, in stores on Feb. 2.

GALS! VOL. 1

Written and art by Fujii Mihona.

CMX. Self-styled Kogal queen Kotobuki Ran and her friends just wanna have fun, which includes shopping, hanging out, and scamming meals off gullible guys. Unfortunately, their "hood" -- Shibuya -- is in constant danger of being despoiled by dirty old men, street gangs, nasty Kogal rivals, and other societal evils. But with a little help from her friends and a toughness born of coming from a family full of cops, Ran takes on the bad guys (and gals) with gusto.

208 pages, black and white, $9.95.

TENJHO TENGE VOL. 1

Written and art by Oh! Great.

CMX. In one unusual Tokyo high school, education takes a backseat to brawling as warring clubs wreak havoc in the hallways and chaos in the classrooms, all vying to be the baddest team around! Although they often contribute their fair share, only a handful of students serve to stem the tide of violence in this untamed outpost. These are the few, the proud, the powerful: the members of the Juken Club!

176 pages, black and white, $9.95, in stores on Feb. 16.

DEVLIN WAUGH: RED TIDE TP

Written by John Smith, art by Steve Yeowell, Colin MacNeil and Jock, cover by Greg Staples.

2000 A.D. The Vatican's finest supernatural investigator is back. Following his conversion to vampirism, Devlin has retired. But now that something terrible from his past is coming, he¹s back in action! Featuring never-before-seen art by Jock.

240 pages, $19.95, in stores on Feb. 16.

ROGUE TROOPER: THE FUTURE OF WAR TP

Written by Gerry Finley-Day, art by Dave Gibbons, Colin Wilson, Mike Dorey, Brett Ewins, Eric Bradbury and Cam Kennedy, cover by Kennedy.

2000 A.D. The war between the Norts and the Southers chemically poisoned the entire atmosphere of Nu-Earth. So the Southers created the Genetic Infantrymen: blue-skinned soldiers who could breathe the toxic air, equipped with bio-chips to record their personalities in their final moments for eventual recorporation. But a Souther traitor sold the G.I.s out, and all but one were slaughtered. Now he stalks Nu-Earth on a mission of revenge, aided by his dead friends now "living" in his gun, helmet and backpack. He is the last G.I. -- the Rogue Trooper.

160 pages, black and white, $14.95.

SKIZZ TP

Written by Alan Moore, art and cover by Jim Baikie .

2000 A.D. Relive one of writer Alan Moore's early triumphs with this new edition of his science-fiction classic Skizz, featuring art by frequent Moore collaborator Jim Baikie .

Zhcchz is a Tau Cetian interpreter traveling home through the stars; Roxy is just a Birmingham schoolgirl heading home after another boring day. When the two collide, their lives will change forever.

Now Roxy must protect her new alien friend "Skizz" and try to find a way to send him home. To help, she's got Loz, the laconic biker, and Cornelius, the slow-witted, unemployed pipe-fitter. But standing in their way is obsessive Government alien-hunter Van Owen.

104 pages, black and white, $14.95, in stores on Feb. 9.

1000 FACES VOL. 1 TP

Written by Philippe Thirault, art and cover by Marc Malés.

Humanoids. A tale of horror in the Old West. Where surgeon Dr. Frank Quinn goes, death soon follows, for he is pursued by the demon with a thousand faces! Now Quinn must stop running and face the demon as it gets closer to the people he has grown to love.

136 pages, $14.95, in stores on Feb. 23.

SANCTUM TP

Written by Xavier Dorison, art and cover by Christopher Bec.

Humanoids. When a U.S. submarine answers a distress beacon, the crew discovers a WWII Russian sub at the mouth of an underwater temple. Accidentally unleashing an ancient god of death imprisoned within the sanctum, the crew fights for their survival -- and humanity's.

192 pages, $19.95, in stores on Feb. 9.

SON OF THE GUN VOL. 2: SAINT TP

Written by Alexandro Jodorowsky, art and cover by Georges Bess.

Humanoids. Juan Solo continues his journey towards redemption! Juan is given a special assignment: protect the governor's wife. But Juan cannot resist the temptation. Their illicit affair could cost Juan his soul, and finding redemption may cost him his life!.

112 pages, $17.95, in stores on Feb. 16.

WILDSTORM TITLES

THE AUTHORITY: REVOLUTION #5

Written by Ed Brubaker, art by Dustin Nguyen and Richard Friend, cover by Nguyen.

Following the catastrophic events in issue #4, the Authority is left searching for answers amid the rubble of the nation's capital. The Authority has battled all manner of monsters and villains, but could their own conscience be the ultimate foe?

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 16.

OCEAN #4

Written by Warren Ellis, art by Chris Sprouse and Karl Story, cover by Michael Golden.

As the mini-series continues, U.N. Weapons Inspector Nathan Kane learns more about the ancient race neatly entombed beneath the frozen waves of Europa, and he likes what he sees less and less. What does this brutal race of near-humans have in store for humanity?

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 16.

EX MACHINA #8

Written by Brian K. Vaughan, art by Tony Harris and Tom Feister, cover by Harris.

The 5-part story "Tag" heats up in this third installment. When a possible source of the paranormal horror stalking the subway tunnels beneath New York City is discovered, Mayor Mitchell Hundred is forced to choose between his allegiance to the NSA operatives who helped him as the Great Machine and the city he's vowed to protect. Plus, political fallout from Hundred's controversial decision threatens to tear his administration apart.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 16.

THE INTIMATES #4

Written by Joe Casey, art by Giuseppe Camuncoli and Sandra Hope and Jim Lee , cover by Lee and Rian Hughes.

What could be more appropriate for super-hero teens in school than a school dance? As Destra convinces the Seminary faculty that this is actually a good idea, certain students find romance in the unlikeliest of places! And which student is a master breakdancer?

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 2.

LEGEND #1

Written by Howard Chaykin, art and cover by Russ Heath

Inspired by Philip Wylie's novel Gladiator, Legend is a 4-issue mini-series telling the story of Hugo Danner, a man blessed with super-human strength and invulnerability, but cursed with all-too-human failings. This mini-series details the physical, emotional and social ramifications of Hugo's abilities as he grows to manhood, desperately searching for acceptance -- and for the role he's meant to play in the world.

48 pages, $4.95, in stores on Feb. 23.

MAJESTIC #2

Written by Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning, art by Neil Googe and Trevor Scott, cover by Ed McGuinness and Dexter Vines.

Majestic realizes he must travel into deep space to find out who or what abducted all life on Earth. But is even Earth's mightiest Kheran a match for such forces? Issue two of this awesome new series delivers action on a mind-blowing, cosmic scale.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 9.

THE MAXX BOOK FOUR TP

Written by Sam Kieth and Alan Moore, art and cover by Kieth.

The fourth volume in The Maxx collection is a turning point, collecting issues #21-27 of the acclaimed series! Alan Moore kicks this volume off with dialogue for the first chapter as three secret agents pursue Mr. Gone, and Sarah traverses the Outback.

144 pages, $17.95, in stores on Feb. 2.

THE RAZOR'S EDGE: WARBLADE #5

Written by John Ridley, art and cover by Simon Bisley.

The first arc of The Razor's Edge reaches a shattering conclusion! In an attempt to regain his powers, Warblade underwent an experimental gene-splicing surgery that went awry. Will he recover? Will he be able to avenge the death of a loved one?

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 23.

SLEEPER SEASON TWO #9

Written by Ed Brubaker, art and cover by Sean Phillips.

Now that Lynch is out of his coma, he's convinced it was Tao's hand that put him out of the game. But leaked clues have brought an old mystery back to the surface. What do Holden and his crew have to do with this, and why are they stalking Grifter?

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 23.

WILD GIRL #4

Written by Leah Moore and John Reppion, art by Shawn McManus and J.H. Williams III, cover by McManus.

Rosa continues to prepare for her showdown with the evil man with the dog skins, but has all her hard work been for naught? Is she too late? And what horrible act did this man commit that pushed Rosa over the edge?

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 9.

TWILIGHT EXPERIMENT #1

Written by Justin Gray and Jimmy Palmiotti, art and cover by Juan Santacruz.

A dramatic new 6-issue miniseries dealing with themes of heroism and loss. Decades ago, a handful of brave volunteers sacrificed their humanity in the hope of one day saving their world from a future cosmic event. They failed. This is the story of their children, who, in the twilight of humanity, must find the courage to fulfill their parents¹ destiny!

Serenity, once the greatest champion humanity had ever known, died defending the world and people she loved. She left behind more than a legacy of heroism ‹ she left a great secret. For eight years, her son Michael has been stranded on a space station orbiting Earth. Raised by a computer program, possessed of strange powers and a hypersensitivity to light, Michael has longed for the day he would join the human race. That day is today.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 2.

TERRA OBSCURA VOL. 2 #6

Written by Alan Moore and Peter Hogan, art and cover by Yanick Paquette and Karl Story.

ABC. It all comes down to this: a showdown in space! The only thing standing between the Terror's seizure of Colonel Future's time-warping ship is Tom Strange. But is he powerful enough to stop this monstrosity? Could this be the end of Terra Obscura as we know it?

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 16.

TOM STRONG BOOK THREE SC

Written by Alan Moore and Leah Moore, art by Chris Sprouse and Karl Story, Howard Chaykin and Shawn McManus, cover by Sprouse and Story.

ABC. Collecting Tom Strong #15-19, this softcover collection brings back some old favorites and introduces some new ones! Val Var Garm kidnaps Tesla; Coleman Grey enlists Strong's aid and more.

144 pages, $17.95, in stores on Feb. 2.

TOM STRONG #31

Written by Michael Moorcock, art and cover by Jerry Ordway.

ABC. Part 1 of a 2-issue tale. A famed Metatemporal Investigator -- or Time 'Tec -- enlists the aid of Tom Strong to save the multiverse. Together with Solomon and Pneuman, they must travel back through time, across the Moonbeam Roads that bridge the multiverse, to find the one responsible for this dire threat: Count Zodiac.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 16.

PROMETHEA #32

Written by Alan Moore, art and cover by J.H. Williams III.

ABC. In a series that pushed the boundaries of mainstream comics to the edge, this final issue goes a little bit further!. Alan Moore and J.H. Williams III deliver the most gloriously experimental issue of PROMETHEA yet, in which the reader takes an incredible trip through the magical cosmos with Promethea as a guide.

This issue gives readers several options to read the book -- one of which is assembling its 32 pages into a giant double-sided poster. Once the poster has been assembled, the pages form two images (one on each side) that are only discernible as a complete entity. Final issue.

32 pages, $3.95, in stores on Feb. 9.

PROMETHEA #32 VARIANT EDITION

Written by Alan Moore, art and cover by J.H. Williams III.

ABC. In celebration of the final issue of Promethea, America's Best Comics offers something truly unique: a variant version of issue #32 printed completely on two 27² x 40² posters! Each page of this issue comes together to form these two posters in which the entire story can be read in multiple ways. Just as important, the posters reveal two hidden images from the book that are only visible in poster format ‹ something completely new to comics!

In addition, the Promethea #32 Variant Edition comes with a lovely saddle-stitched, 48-page companion book that collects each and every Promethea cover illustrated by J.H. Williams. And as a bonus, each book will be signed by Moore and Williams! Retailers please note: This edition is limited to 1,000 units; orders may be allocated. A limited number of unsigned copies of the Promethea Cover Collection will be offered for sale at a later date.

48 pages, $49.95, in stores on Feb. 9.

VERTIGO TITLES

100 BULLETS #58

Written by Brian Azzarello, art by Eduardo Risso, cover by Dave Johnson.

As the dust slowly settles in New Orleans, we pick up with the ever-dangerous Lono and his newly acquired apprentice, Loop Hughes. But what exactly does Lono have in store for his jail-hardened pupil, and how does a deadly Minuteman play into his curriculum?

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Feb. 9.

ANGELTOWN #4

Written by Gary Phillips, art and cover by Shawn Martinbrough.

Nate Hollis has finally found his missing basketball star, Theophus Burnett. However, they don't call Burnett "the Magician" on the court for nothing, and soon Burnett is back on the lam and Hollis is back on his case. But Hollis isn't the only one after him. So will the wanted hoopster live to tell his side of the story?

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 9.

THE BOOKS OF MAGICK: LIFE DURING WARTIME BOOK ONE TP

Written by Si Spencer, co-plotted by Neil Gaiman, art by Dean Ormston, cover by Frank Quitely.

Tim Hunter returns in this first collection of his new title, collecting the initial story arc from issues #1-5 as co-plotted by Neil Gaiman. This new take on the Hunter is loaded with dystopian undercurrents and psychological horror.

128 pages, $9.95, in stores on Feb. 2.

THE BOOKS OF MAGICK: LIFE DURING WARTIME #8

Written by Si Spencer, consulting by Neil Gaiman, art by Dean Ormston, cover by Duncan Fegredo.

Tim is forced to take action and confront his enemies on their turf. Drunk on magic, his first mission is an Icelandic jailbreak with the brand-new love of his life. Meanwhile, John Constantine and Molly get a little too close for comfort.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Feb. 16.

HELLBLAZER #205

Written by Mike Carey, art by Leonardo Manco, cover by Tim Bradstreet.

The shocking final chapter of the 4-part "Reasons to be Cheerful." John's desperate race to save his loved ones from the demons' cull ends in tragedy. But this isn't the tragedy that he'd feared and expected -- this is far worse.

32 pages, $2.75, in stores on Feb. 23.

FABLES #34

Written by Bill Willingham, art by David Hahn, cover by James Jean.

Part 1 of the 2-part "Jack be Nimble," featuring guest art by David Hahn. Jack of the Tales has made his grand getaway to Hollywood, and if there was ever a place for such a trickster, it's Tinseltown. Jack starts his own production company and quickly learns that being ruthless is the best way to make money fast -- not to mention enemies.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Feb. 9.

JOHN CONSTANTINE -- HELLBLAZER SPECIAL: PAPA MIDNITE #1

Written by Mat Johnson, art by Tony Akins and Dan Green, cover by Ronald Wimberly.

Revealing the hidden origin of John Constantine's deadly nemesis, the immortal voodoo sorcerer/gangster/nightclub owner known as Midnite (a starring character in the upcoming Warner Bros. Pictures film Constantine, also released in February) in this 5-issue mini-series featuring covers by Ronald Wimberly .

In modern-day Harlem, Midnite embarks on a vision quest that takes him back to his boyhood 300 years ago in colonial Manhattan. When the island's slaves revolt against their white captors, young Midnite sees an opportunity for profit. But his self-serving tricks cause a catastrophe that haunts him to this day in a tale inspired by true historical incidents.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 2.

IT'S A BIRD... SC

Written by Steven T. Seagle, art and cover by Teddy Kristiansen

A softcover edition of the acclaimed Vertigo hardcover that tells one of the most realistic Superman tales ever -- without featuring Superman. Steve's given the dream assignment to write Superman, only he can't relate to a Man of Steel when his own fears of death haunt him. Explore the cultural significance of a comic-book icon as Steve comes to terms with Superman's cultural importance.

136 pages, $17.95, in stores on Feb. 9.

HUMAN TARGET #19

Written by Peter Milligan, art by Cliff Chiang. cover by John Watkiss.

Already on the rocks with his wife Mary, Chance will be tested when an old friend sets his sights on him -- an old friend with a very familiar face, skills as formidable as Chance's, and an even more warped sense of identity.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 16.

LUCIFER #59

Written by Mike Carey, art by Peter Gross and Ryan Kelly, cover by Michael Wm. Kaluta.

In Part 1 of the 3-part "Breach," Jill Presto goes to Las Vegas to see if she can gamble away her baby. But as the storms of dissolution gather across the worlds, it's clear that the stakes will be far higher than she expects -- for her, for Lucifer Morningstar and for the whole of Creation.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Feb. 16.

LUCIFER: EXODUS TP

Written by Mike Carey, art by Peter Gross and Ryan Kelly, cover by Christopher Moeller.

A new collection featuring Lucifer #42-44 and #46-49. The Morningstar faces a new challenge to his universe, as defending the status quo requires cooperation between angel and devil alike. Lucifer decrees that all immortals must leave immediately...or learn about mortality the hard way.

168 pages, $14.95, in stores on Feb. 9.

THE LOSERS #21

Written by Andy Diggle, art by Ben Oliver, cover by Jock.

Part 2 of a 3-part storyline. The Losers plan to intercept the biggest deal of Max's corrupt career. But when a shadowy figure from their past returns, they discover the stakes are higher than anything they've ever imagined.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 23.

VIMANARAMA! #1

Written by Grant Morrison, art and cover by Philip Bond.

Imagine a modern-day Arabian Nights in the form of an Indian romantic comedy and set on a celestial stage. East meets West with a burst of color, song and cosmic violence in Grant Morrison's latest, a 3-issue mini-series that¹s a romantic action story with an operatic twist.

The son of a successful grocery chain owner, 19-year-old British-Asian Ali can't relate to his family's traditional customs. He feels much better when he finds that Sofia, the girl he's arranged to be married to, is gorgeous and vivacious...until he accidentally unleashes a subterranean army of fossil demons, restarts an ancient god war, and brings the whole world to the brink of destruction. Now, the only person who can save the day is a 15,000-year-old Indian super-man who's fallen in love with Sofia. A dazzling, transcendental journey into another reality, Vimanarama! is Morrison's and Bond's wildest yet, mixing widescreen action, soap-opera realism and Eastern religion with an end-of-the-world love story.

40 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 9.

SWAMP THING #12

Written by Joshua Dysart, art and cover by Enrique Breccia.

The horrifying conclusion of the 4-part "Love in Vain." Arcane has learned a few new tricks during his stay in Heaven. With the power of The Light under his control, even Swamp Thing may not be able to stop himŠnot without paying an unimaginable price.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 2.

TRIGGER #3

Written by Jason Hall, art and cover by John Watkiss.

After Carter Lennox and Deirdre Myers come face-to-face with the mysterious "Triggers" -- not to mention their own deaths -- the two are determined to get to the bottom of the mysterious police force and their possible connections to a series of grisly underworld murders.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 16.

THE WITCHING #9

Written by Jonathan Vankin, art by Leigh Gallagher and Dan Green, c over by Tara McPherson.

With Sook's powers manifesting quickly, Elsa is finding it difficult to instruct her voracious new student while keeping her hands off a hot, mysterious stranger. Meanwhile, Sook discovers a secret in the Grimston¹s basement, and once she faces the Three Witches, she'll never be the same again.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 23.

Y: THE LAST MAN #31

Written by Brian K. Vaughan, art by Pia Guerra and José Marzan Jr., cover by Massimo Carnevale.

The 5-part "Ring of Truth" reaches its shocking conclusion. Just when Dr. Mann finally discovers the answer to how Yorick and Ampersand survived the mysterious plague, an unforeseen adversary swoops in and steals a major key to the possible cure. But could the thief be working for someone close to the trio?

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Feb. 2.