Season of Mists

Published from 1990 to 1991, 'Season of Mists' is a story arc from the critically acclaimed comic book series 'The Sandman,' written by Neil Gaiman with art by Kelley Jones, Mike Dringenberg, Matt Wagner, and others. The arc spans issues #21-28 of 'The Sandman' series, published by DC Comics under its Vertigo imprint. The story begins with a meeting of the Endless, where Dream, also known as Morpheus, is reminded of a past mistake involving Nada, a former lover whom he condemned to Hell. Urged by his sister Death, Dream decides to journey to Hell to free Nada. Upon arrival, he discovers that Lucifer has abandoned his realm, leaving the key to Hell in Dream's possession. This unexpected turn of events leads to various deities and mythical beings vying for control of Hell, including representatives from Norse, Egyptian, and other mythologies. The arc explores themes of responsibility, power, and redemption, and is notable for its rich storytelling and character development. 'Season of Mists' is often praised for its intricate plot and the way it expands the universe of 'The Sandman.' It had a significant impact on the series' continuity, setting the stage for future storylines. The arc is considered a pivotal moment in the series and is frequently cited as one of the best story arcs in comic book history.