The saga of the “Aya-Hunters” continues as the upgraded Manhunters launch an assault on Oa, hoping to seize the Emotional Spectrum and its Power Batteries. The question now is whether the Emotional Entities will side with living beings or choose the cold logic of machines. Writer Morgan Hampton joins forces with an impressive Art Corps consisting of Fernando Pasarin, Juan Jose Ryp, Will Conrad, Ig Guara, Oclair Albert, and Jason Paz, with colors by Matt Herms and Lee Loughridge. Together, this creative team pushes all the Lantern Corps to their breaking point as the “Aya-Hunters” breach Oa’s defenses. So how will the All-Sight and the Green Lantern Corps’ Leader rise above themselves and save the day?
DC
This issue feels like the calm before the storm’s climax and will probably read even better alongside the next chapter or in a collected edition. Even so, the creative team does a good job of moving the story forward and raising the stakes. The heart of the issue lies in the conflict between Guy Gardner and Jessica Cruz. The two disagree on how to use the Emotional Entities in the fight against the Manhunters. Jessica views them as essential weapons to end the invasion, while Guy sees them as living beings who deserve agency and respect. Their debate adds a compelling moral dilemma to the story. This chapter also serves as an excellent showcase for Jessica Cruz. Hampton leans into her history with anxiety, PTSD, and agoraphobia, challenging her to make difficult leadership decisions under impossible circumstances. Jessica’s inner monologue gives the issue its emotional weight, and fans of the character should come away very satisfied.
DC
The other major focus is Aya and her recovery from the events that have transpired within her physical body. Fortunately, Oa’s resources are helping her adapt, and the issue hints that she may become an even greater force moving forward. The action delivers several standout moments, but my favorite comes when Jo Mullein enters the battle. Her interaction with Kilowog provides a much-needed dose of humor before leading to an awesome sequence involving a massive mech assembled by members of the Emotional Spectrum Corps. Honestly, it looks like something McFarlane could have turned into a toy immediately.
As fun as that sequence is, it also reinforces how dangerous the Aya-Hunters have become. They continue to push the Lanterns to their limits, making the upcoming finale feel even bigger. Overall, Green Lantern Corps #18 serves primarily as a setup issue, but it’s an entertaining, character-driven one that leaves readers eager for the conclusion.
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