# 87/1200.
This hardcover is signed by Michael T. Gilbert, George Freeman, P.Craig Russell, and Roy Thomas.
Elric is the last emperor of the stagnating island civilization of Melniboné. Physically weak, the anemic Elric must use drugs (special herbs) to maintain his health and vitality. From childhood, he read freely in the immense royal library and learned of the world outside the Dreaming Isle. Perhaps due to this in-depth study, unlike other members of his race, Elric has a conscience. He witnesses the decadence of his culture, which once ruled the known world, and worries about the rise of the Young Kingdoms populated by humans (Melnibonéans consider themselves separate from humanity), along with the threat they pose to his empire. Because of Elric's introspective self-loathing and hatred of Melnibonéan traditions, his subjects find him odd and unfathomable. However, his cousin Yyrkoon (next in the line of succession, as Elric has no heirs) interprets this behaviour as weakness and plots Elric's death. Complicating matters is Yyrkoon's sister Cymoril, who is deeply in love with Elric; Yyrkoon covets her, and part of his plan for usurpation is to marry Cymoril himself.In addition to his skill with herbs, Elric is an accomplished sorcerer and summoner. As emperor of Melniboné, Elric is able to call for aid upon the traditional patron of the Melniboné emperors, Arioch, a Lord of Chaos and Duke of Hell. From the first story, Elric uses ancient pacts and agreements with not only Arioch, but various other beings—some gods, some demons—to help him accomplish his tasks.Elric's discovery of the sword Stormbringer serves as both his greatest asset and disadvantage. The sword confers upon Elric strength, health, and fighting prowess, allowing him to do away with his dependence on drugs, but it must be fed by the souls of intelligent beings.
Signed by Brian Pulido.
Written by Brian Pulido and Mike MacLean. Art by Diego Bernard.
New Story! To avenge her murdered lover, Hellwitch slaughtered a queen and burnt her own hive to the ground. Now she has become Hell's most notorious rebel, with a price on her head to match. Forced to wander the wastelands, Hellwitch finds herself hunted by old enemies. They will stop at nothing to finish her and butcher the last survivors of her hive-a bevy of beautiful The Forsaken, too innocent for the perils of the underworld. Can Hellwitch defeat her ruthless adversaries? Or will a twisted rival from her past annihilate Hellwitch's very soul? Find out in Hellwitch: The Forsaken, a dark tale of forbidden magic, insatiable lust, and merciless bloodshed.
48 pages, full color.
