Origin
Bête Noir is a nightmare, originally incarnated in The Dreaming, which was allowed to fester and grow strong in the basement of the House of Mystery. At some point it claimed Miranda as its wife.
Creation
Bête Noir was created by Lilah Sturges and Luca Rossi. It made its first appearance in House of Mystery #10.
Major Story Arcs
House of Mystery
Lurking in the basement of the House, Bête Noir is roused by the invasion of Harry, Ann, and Fig into its domain. It attacks them at the behest of its wife, but the fragment facing them is slain. Briefly cut back, it surges up from the basement and attacks the inhabitants of the House’s bar. It is persuaded to take liquid form by Miranda, who then consumes it.
Powers and Abilities
Bête Noir is a nightmare of great strength. It physically resembles a pitch black mass which can manifest as a great horned monster, as well as take a variety of shadow shapes. It is physically very strong, and able to twist and break the minds of people who come in contact with it.