John Stewart’s Ascension with the Dark Star Ring: A New Era for Green Lantern
John Stewart, a distinguished member of the Green Lantern Corps, has now acquired the formidable Dark Star Ring—an artifact embodying the ancient willpower of the Old God, Olgrun. This new power amplifies his abilities but also brings with it immense responsibility and the potential for catastrophic consequences if it falls into the wrong hands. The burden of wielding such a force could lead to either a renaissance or a new age of darkness within the DC Universe.
Spoilers Ahead: The Power Shift in Green Lantern: War Journal #11
In the latest issue of Green Lantern: War Journal (#11), John Stewart solidifies his position as the most powerful Green Lantern in the DC Universe. Not only has he been a key figure in combating the Radiant Dead—a malevolent force led by the vengeful Old God Olgrun—but he has now claimed the Dark Star Ring, the most potent Power Ring ever forged.
For months, John has been relentlessly pursued by the Radiant Dead, an army of undead beings corrupted by Olgrun’s malevolent influence. His quest has taken him across the galaxy, where he discovered a relic that could not only end Olgrun’s reign of terror but also potentially make him the most powerful hero in the DC Universe.
The Dark Star Ring: Willpower of an Old God
In this issue, authored by Phillip Kennedy Johnson with art by Montos, Adriano Lucas, and Dave Sharpe, John Stewart’s journey through the Dark Star of the Fenn brings him face-to-face with Olgrun himself. Captured and transformed by Olgrun’s corrupted light, John experiences Olgrun’s memories and connections to his family, including his daughter, Queen Ajna. However, an ally named Byla-Esh reaches out to John telepathically, warning him that Olgrun is dangerously close to turning him into his vessel.
Despite being under immense pressure, John manages to retain control, resisting the dark influence of Olgrun. He escapes the Dark Star with the Dark Star Ring still in his possession, fully aware of the immense power it holds and the peril it represents.
The Myth of Olgrun: How It All Began
Olgrun was once the most powerful god in existence, renowned for creating breathtaking worlds and realms. His downfall began when his brother, Bjoltr, tricked him into killing his own daughter. Consumed by rage, Olgrun went on a rampage, annihilating everything in his path. The other Old Gods eventually defeated him, but they were unable to kill him. Instead, they fractured his power into seven aspects, scattering them across the DC Universe.
These aspects remained hidden for eons until Superman, during his quest to liberate Warworld, discovered one known as the Fire of Olgrun. Instead of using it to restore his own fading powers, Superman chose to revive Osul-Ra, a young boy from Warworld. This act of selflessness set the stage for the unfolding saga of Olgrun’s resurgence.
The Stakes: What the Dark Star Ring Means for John Stewart
The Dark Star Ring is not just a symbol of power; it is a manifestation of Olgrun’s willpower. The last individual who tried to wield it was consumed by its power, becoming a mere puppet for Olgrun. However, John Stewart’s unparalleled willpower makes him uniquely suited to control the ring. Already the strongest active Green Lantern, John’s new abilities place him on a godlike level.
Yet, the danger is far from over. If the aspects of Olgrun are reunited by someone unworthy, Olgrun could be resurrected, ushering in an era of darkness. John’s newfound power thus comes with the enormous responsibility of ensuring the ring remains in the right hands.
The Battle Ahead: John Stewart’s Future
Now armed with the Dark Star Ring, John Stewart is better equipped than ever to defeat the Radiant Dead. However, the ring’s immense power will undoubtedly attract the attention of many sinister forces within the DC Universe. Even within the Green Lantern Corps, figures like Lord Premier Thaaros are likely to covet such power for themselves.
John must remain vigilant, as even though he now holds one of the most powerful weapons in existence, it also makes him a target. The challenges ahead will test not just his strength but his resolve to protect the universe from those who would misuse Olgrun’s power.
With the Dark Star Ring in his possession, John Stewart’s role in the DC Universe has changed irrevocably. He stands on the brink of either becoming the universe’s greatest protector or its undoing, depending on how he wields the willpower of an Old God.
Green Lantern: War Journal #11 is now available, marking a significant chapter in the ongoing saga of John Stewart and the Green Lantern Corps.
Creative Team:
- Writer: Phillip Kennedy Johnson
- Artist: Montos
- Colorist: Adriano Lucas
- Letterer: Dave Sharpe
- Cover Artist: Montos
About Green Lantern:
The Green Lantern Corps is an intergalactic police force in the DC Universe, harnessing the energy of willpower to create powerful constructs. While some members of the Corps are affiliated with the Justice League, their primary allegiance is to the Corps itself.