REVIEW: Dark Knights of Steel II #2

What began as a joyous uniting of kingdoms, as Princess Zala-El began the ceremonial process of becoming an Amazon to be with her love, Queen Diana of Amazonia, quickly turned into a fight for Zala’s life following a battle with a Leviathan in the first issue of Dark Knights of Steel II.

Writer Tom Taylor continues to weave together the next chapter of this Elseworlds tale, along with artist Otto Schmidt, colorist Arif Prianto and letterer Wes Abbott, as issue 2 picks up right after the events of the last issue. Zala has a weak pulse, but she is still alive, and Diana is gathering her best healers to save Zala’s life as her mother and brother look on helplessly.

We were also introduced to new characters Barbara Gordon, who is in full Oracle mode, and given greater introductions to her father Jim Gordon and Arthur Curry, who came to the rescue last issue when the Leviathan attacked the island of Amazonia. Be sure to check out the Dark Knights of Steel II Special: Heir to the Sea one-shot for more on Aquaman’s background and how closely it mirrors Superman’s origin in regular continuity.

There’s so much to get to in this issue, but first, let’s check out this issue’s beautiful covers. The main cover by Yasmine Putri shows the people of the Kingdom of Metropolis ready to attack Queen Diana, Phillipus and Lois with pitchforks, sticks and their fists as the three enter the center of the kingdom. It appears tomatoes have already been thrown at the trio, and while Diana is trying to calm things down, Phillipus is ready to defend her queen, Lois and herself. Someone is definitely pulling some strings to rile up the people and divide the current League of Kingdoms.

Travis Moore’s variant cover captures Zala and Diana in a more joyous and romantic mood as they fly high in the sky, gazing deeply into each other’s eyes. The super couple looks completely oblivious to the rest of the world as Diana’s Lasso of Truth encircles them. This cover beautifully showcases the love story at the heart of this new chapter.

In the variant cover by Lucas Meyer, we get a very cool image of what we would consider four of the core members of the Justice League: Bat-Prince Bruce Wayne, Aquaman Arthur Curry, Superman Kal-El and Wonder Woman Diana. Even with the medieval setting and fantasy motifs, who these characters truly are shines through in their poses and presentations. In another lifetime and reality, they would be superheroes of legend.

When this issue begins, Zala is clinging to life as the love of her life, Diana, cries out for help. From there, Prianto, Schmidt and Abbott are off to the races. Schmidt’s artwork captures the fear, desperation, anger and uncertainty written across these characters’ faces, pulling readers deeper into their world and the situations they are facing. Prianto’s colors bring additional life and atmosphere to every scene, while Abbott’s lettering is on point, from the whispers and yells to the loud crashes and explosions.

Taylor, as I have said before, gets these characters and does a great job throwing familiar DC characters into new realities within the realm of Elseworlds. Even though their backgrounds have changed, who these characters have been to us throughout the years remains. That helps preserve the connection readers have with them, even in a fantasy, medieval setting where kingdoms, swords, magic and political intrigue have replaced capes and city skylines.

We learn more about what is truly ailing Princess Zala and who is really behind it. We also see more of Barbara’s abilities, which is very cool, and learn more about her family, leading to one heck of a shocker. Just when I thought I knew what was going on, Taylor threw me for a loop. And just when I was settling back in, we get another cliffhanger that will have us waiting until next month for answers. Dark Knights of Steel II #2 digs us deeper into the mystery surrounding Zala’s predicament and the ripple effects it is creating across the kingdoms. We are also made aware of those working from the shadows, making power plays and setting unfortunate events into motion for our protagonists. There’s one person who appears to know the truth, but will her connection to one of those making these power plays stop her from revealing what she knows?

(10/10) Dark Knights of Steel II #2 keeps this new chapter moving while giving readers shocking twists, turns and jaw-dropping revelations. We didn’t see Bruce at all this issue, and that’s perfectly fine. There are so many interesting characters, relationships and storylines in play that everyone needs to be given room to breathe, while characters come and go from the story as needed. I’m locked in and can’t wait to see where this series takes us as we journey deeper into these characters’ lives, loves, loyalties and the enemies threatening everything they hold dear.