Monarchies exist in the world today, yes, but in the Western world, they tend to be little more than symbols of tradition than an actual form of government. Here, Ron Marz takes us to a place where monarchies actually mean something, reminding us that there was a time that this was how we lived as well. Marz offers up an emotional and thoroughly accessible script that draws the reader into the story right away. Cheung's art continues to shine, bringing out the fantastic and tenderly human elements of the story quite well.
Ethan, Heron prince, and Ashleigh, disgraced Raven princess, learn that their elder siblings -- Princess Ylena and the malevolent King Bron -- plan to wed. Ylena has agreed to the marriage in order to achieve peace between the two warring kingdoms, but Ethan sets out to the Raven kingdom in order to stop the ceremony. He's not the only one who's unhappy with this turn of events, as Ethan's brother Kai is opposed to the union as well, but his father, the Heron King, orders him to hold his tongue.
Cheung never fails to stun my senses with the amazing array of detail he brings to every issue of Scion. That strong level of realism in the fantastic setting is balanced with a simpler approach in the characters' faces. Less is more in that respect, as it allows the figures to be thoroughly expressive. The designs for the wedding attire are lovely and capture the elegance of such a royal occasion, as does the wide splendour of the castle where it is held. Keith's colors add to the realism and fantasy of the linework as well.
This issue stands out as Ylena's story. It's about her sacrifice, and it really sets her apart from the rest of her family. Her determination, her sadness and the dichotomous notion of her strength intermingled with her vulnerability all combine to make the reader sympathize with her and respect her. She is the focus of demands, of outrage, but ultimately, she makes the difficult decision necessary to save lives.
I loved the indirect conflict between Ethan and his father here. It's paralleled by the confrontation between the Heron King and Kai as well, but Kai ultimately steps aside, yielding to his father's judgment. Though Ethan doesn't share words with his father, his defiance is still clear. Ethan still acts out of responsibility, standing up for what he believes to be right, but he does so in a different way now. He's not ruled by tradition or devotion to his dynasty, but by his own heart and mind. This was wonderfully character-driven issue of Scion, and I look forward to how this complex fantasy story will develop.
