It was only three months ago that writer Joshua Hale Fialkov abruptly resigned from DC Comics' Green Lantern Corps and Red Lanterns before his runs could even begin due to, as Comic Book Resources and Bleeding Cool reported, an editorial edict to kill off John Stewart. The news was met initially by a "no comment" from the publisher, followed by an assurance from incoming Green Lantern Corps co-plotter Robert Venditti that he and writer Van Jensen "have never even contemplated killing John Stewart." A DC representative added, "Seeing a lot of unverified reports on this. To clarify: John Stewart is not going anywhere."

So why bring this up now? Because this week's Green Lantern Corps #21, the first issue of Jensen and Venditti's tenure, features a pretty obvious wink and nod to the March controversy.

As Stewart and Fatality arrive on the planet Kosh to prevent the meltdown of a fusion reactor and the deaths of 9.8 billion lives, they're confronted by vaguely reptilian aliens who are stealing the ruthenium. "Lanterns," the leader says. "Kill them both. No witnesses." To which Stewart replies: "Sorry -- I'm not dying today!"

OK, but how were you feeling three months ago?

Green Lantern Corps #21 is available today online and in stores. A four-page preview can be found at Comic Book Resources.