Black Knight #2 (1990)

Black Knight #2 (1990) continues the four-issue limited series with Dane Whitman caught between his own identity and the spirit of his heroic ancestor, Sir Percy of Scandia. Titled “In the Dread of Night”, the issue pushes the story deeper into Arthurian magic, family legacy, and the curse of the Ebony Blade. It also brings Captain Britain into the adventure, expanding the series’ connection to Marvel’s mystical British mythology.

In this issue, the Black Knight—still under the influence of Sir Percy’s spirit—travels with Victoria Bentley to seek Captain Britain’s help in locating the hidden castle of Morgan Le Fay. As the search leads them toward the Irish coast, Dane briefly regains control of himself when he removes his helmet. However, the relief is short-lived, as the curse of the Ebony Blade begins to overtake him once again, threatening to transform him into iron.

The danger escalates when Dreadknight, serving Morgan Le Fay and Mordred, attacks Dane and his allies. Captain Britain joins the fight, but Dane is forced into a painful choice: remain himself and risk being destroyed by the curse, or allow Sir Percy to take control again in order to survive the battle. This conflict makes the issue an important continuation of Dane’s struggle between heroism, inheritance, and loss of self.

Significance

Black Knight #2 (1990) is significant because it advances the central conflict of the limited series: Dane Whitman’s battle against both external enemies and the supernatural legacy of the Ebony Blade. The issue strengthens the connection between the modern Black Knight and the Arthurian past, while also positioning Morgan Le Fay and Mordred as major threats. By adding Captain Britain to the story, the issue broadens the mystical scope of the series and ties Dane’s quest more closely to Marvel’s larger world of British heroes and legends.

Key Elements

• Dane Whitman: The modern Black Knight, struggling to maintain control of his own body and destiny.
• Sir Percy of Scandia: Dane’s ancestor, whose spirit continues to play a major role in the Black Knight’s survival and identity.
• The Ebony Blade: The cursed mystical sword whose power threatens to consume Dane.
• Captain Britain: A key guest star who aids Dane and Victoria in their search for Morgan Le Fay’s castle.
• Victoria Bentley: Dane’s ally in the quest against Morgan Le Fay and Mordred.
• Dreadknight: The villainous attacker sent against the Black Knight and his allies.
• Morgan Le Fay and Mordred: The mystical antagonists manipulating events from behind the scenes.
• Roy Thomas, Dann Thomas, and Tony DeZuniga: The creative team behind the issue’s blend of superhero action, sword-and-sorcery adventure, and Arthurian mythology.