Wayward #10

Did I miss something? Wayward, which has continually been one of the most excellent books on the shelf, was poised to wrap up it's second arc finale with a bang. An epic showdown is set outside of a temple involving iron arms, molotov cocktails, and an army of cats. Who knew how it was all going to end? I sure didn't, but I definitely didn't expect this. Like I said before, maybe I missed something, but the ending comes a little bit out of left field.

The issue is a combination of a action set piece and slow reveal. Writer Jim Zub does an excellent job  of pacing the action and creating an element of tension that runs through the book. The tension is brought on by several reasons: the Wayward team is missing two members, current allies can't be completely trusted, and just what are they trying to accomplish. Obscurity and misinformation plague many of the characters in this book. All of this tension and action culminates to a huge moment for Emi where she is forced to make a choice. Unfortunately, before any decision can be made, Rori reappears and uses her super weaving powers and makes a bunch of claims that come from out of nowhere.  The new claim that Rori makes will definitely change the landscape of Wayward for the next arc. It'll lead to very many interesting developments. I just have zero idea how Rori came to these conclusions. I wish this could have been shown or talked about in same way before it was added to the mythos.

Despite that bit of confusion at the end, the rest of the  book operates in classic Wayward greatness. Steve Cummings and Tamra Bonvillain craft wonderful pages. The sundown setting allows Bonvillain to add a lot of warmth to the pages through oranges, reds, and soft purples. Cummings' linework appears to be a little more loose and "scratchy" than previous issues, but that works well with the action at hand. It creates the illusion of fluidity and allows the fight scenes to be more visceral.

All in all, Wayward ends it's second arc on a strong note. The ending is surprising for both good and bad, but allows Wayward to expand it's sandbox creating more space for these talented creators to explore.