In RUNES #3, available from Source Point Press on September 29th, 2021, Arnar the Northman faces trial and execution at the hands of Fearn’s council, but a greater threat forces Iona to hatch a daring plan.
The Details
- Written By: Ivan Lacitignola
- Art By: Francesco Iaquinta
- Colors By: Ivan Lacitignola, Alessia Teruggi
- Letters By: Ivan Lacitignola, Alessia Teruggi
- Cover Art By: Francesco Iaquinta
- Cover Price: $3.99
- Release Date: September 29, 2021
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Was It Good?
I’ve liked this series since issue #1 with its brooding, stoic central character and the mood of raw Viking power. Now, the mystical elements have bloomed into a major part of the story, and the lone warrior, established so well in the beginning, will be put to a serious test.
In some ways, Runes is a classic fable sung about in mead halls of the ancient North. The story couldn’t sustain itself for long if it was simply about Arnar killing everything that moved. With the introduction of magic by way of a deadly witch and some bureaucratic conflict among the townspeople, the stage is set for a major battle that will either see Arnar victorious and worthy of a song or dead in a ditch.
That’s one of the reasons this issue works so well. The additional elements add layers of complexity to the story. Not confusing complexity, but the complexity that keeps the reader guessing about what happens next. The archetype of the main character and the elements of magic, arguing councils, and the like all seem familiar but they’re put together in an intriguing way to keep the story unpredictable.
The art from Iaquinta is especially fitting for this story. Heavy lines and soulful eyes produce tons of mood in this issue. The subtle high point comes from the art team’s use of lighting sources to create different coloring shades and shadows that keep the visuals moving, even when all the characters are standing still.
This is great storytelling with great art and great writing. This series is a joy to read.
What’s It About?
[SPOILERS AHEAD – Click here if you just want the score without spoilers]
If you don’t know who Arnar and Iona are, read our RUNES #2 review first.
We begin with Morag the witch raising undead soldiers to destroy a local village in her search for the Northman. She sees him as a threat and wants him captured or destroyed.
Later, Iona is surprised by her uncle as she questions the Northman in his jail cell. Questioning a prisoner is against the law, but Iona is intent on risking it for something she’s planning. Meanwhile, the interrogation is witnessed by a raven who flies back to Morag to inform her of the Northman’s location.
The next day, the Northman is brought before Fearn’s council. His trial is short and the outcome predictable – scheduled execution. Secretly, Iona approaches her uncle for support in overturning the execution sentence to the council in exchange for the Northman’s help. We conclude the issue with a hostile debate, Morag using her power on an entire countryside, and Iona making Arnar a deal he probably can’t refuse.
Final Thoughts
RUNES #3 raises the stakes on the Northman’s predicament with the introduction of vengeful elders and an all-powerful witch. The story is turning out to be a classic “Voyage and Return” plot with compelling characters, captivating visuals, and layers of complexity that keep you guessing.
Score: 9/10
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