Runaways began as a book that revolved around mystery, but what has always been the hook for me is the characterization. This second arc combines both those arcs pretty effectively, showing how the group dynamics of the Runaways are starting to shake out while simultaneously introducing a mysterious new element in the form of an intriguing new character. There's definitely more going on with Topher than meets the eye, but Vaughan doesn't tip his hand in this issue. Instead, he shows off how the characters react to a new person, and in so doing provides us a little more insight into each of the team members. Runaways also continues to deliver in the unpredictability department, and I'm glad to see that the book didn't settle into being a low-rent New Warriors or something with the group deciding to use their powers to "fight evil" at the end of the last arc.
It seems a little odd that Topher and his parents happened to run into the Runaways, which could be overly convenient plotting, but my guess is that it's actually something more manipulative than that. Especially since Topher so effectively drives a wedge between two of the more level-headed teammates, and raises doubts amongst some of the others. Though there's a scene that indicates that Alex's parents aren't in on Topher, I wonder if one of the members of The Pride has something to do with Topher joining up with the team. Whatever the case, I'm sure there's more going on than just random chance, as Topher seems to come equipped with an agenda.
What I really like about Runaways, though, are the little things. There's some fantastic dialogue between the team during the escape and back at the cave, as Vaughan shows off the sense of humor that has made Y: The Last Man so much fun. Bruiser's dialogue is hilarious, and the way she has come to enjoy her powers, not to mention her youth relative to the other team members, makes her a really likable character. On the flipside of that, I'm starting to really enjoy Gert's pessimism, and acidic quips like "If that's the only criteria for admission, this cave is gonna fill up fast" make me like her even more. Vaughan also has a pretty neat observation of Los Angeles in the Marvel Universe, which is relatively superhuman-free compared to New York, making for a believable setting for The Pride.
I'm continuing to enjoy Alphona and Yeung's art on the book as well. Christina Strain's colors give the work a sort of animated cel appearance, and I find the stylized look of the book very enjoyable. My favorite aspect of the art is probably the design element, as Alphona and Yeung have some unusual touches, like the power displays, but are generally playing within the realm of regular fashion, and yet they make the characters very distinctive and cool-looking without the shortcut of costumes.
Of course, there are some downsides that have become evident as I start to read more of Vaughan's work. Others have noted his preoccupation with pop culture references, similar to Brian Bendis, but Vaughan's somehow seem more intrusive. Using "West Wing" as a codeword, or making an A-Team reference that feels like it's there for no reason other than to be an A-Team reference, undercuts the strong teenager characterization that Vaughan is doing. Still, these are fairly minor complaints about an otherwise highly entertaining and fresh take on teenage super-heroes.
