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SCION #21
Mildly Recommended (6/10)
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CrossGen Comics
Writer: Ron Marz
Pencils: Jim Cheung & Brandon Peterson
Inks: Don Hillsman & "Ethan's Embellishers"
Colors: Justin Ponsor & Jason Lambert
Letters: Troy Peteri & Dave Lanphear
Price: $2.95 US/$4.75 CAN |
My interest in the political and social complexities of Scion remains high, but this wasn't the strongest issue of the series we've seen. Marz finally delves into something he's been building toward for almost two years -- the romance side of things, and not the dirty, sweaty kind we've seen before from Bron and Mai Shen. The problem is that the romance doesn't quite work for me the way it's presented here, and adding to my disappointment are the jarring shifts in visual styles.
Ethan and Ashleigh find themselves guided to the ruling council of Haven, where they present their case. The lesser races need a new sancutary, and Haven seems ideal. While the undersea people share a kinship with the lesser races, the prince and princess's proposal poses problems. Meanwhile, Exeter rallies support for the underground movement on the surface, while the Heron army marches on toward a risky gambit of war.
Cheung's vision of Haven is magical. The designs are stunning and its citizens enchanting in appearance, and Cheung's efforts are reinforced by the warm, glowing colors. Peterson offers up strong, detailed visuals as well, but there are a couple of glitches. First of all, his style isn't as smooth as Cheung's, and it doesn't seem to cpature the same passions and subtleties that one is used to in this title. Furthermore, it makes for far too different a tone within the same issue.
There are some wonderful moments in this issue. Exeter's newfound passion and sense of leadership shows just how the character has grown, and how the others have profoundly affected him. The serenity of Haven and its rulers is practically intoxicating, and the Heron army's advance through the snowy mountains of Raven territory is rife with tension.
In the end, though, this issue is about Ethan and Ashleigh. Regular readers have known this emotional connection was coming, but now that the moment is here... it just didn't work for me. The romance -- whether it's the words the characters exchange, their actions or even the cover with its depiction of long-flowing hair -- it's all too... Fabio. This is Fabio romance, Harlequin romance, and it just doesn't ring as true as it should.
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