Sonic the Hedgehog #90: Through the Looking Glass, Into the Fire

I find that Blaze and Silver issues are always particularly compelling. I don’t know if the rules surrounding them are more lax than the more prominent characters or what, but they have had a lot of development and we have really seen their relationship grow through the course of this book. After all the time travel shenanigans with their history in the games, the IDW book was given the opportunity to start fresh, building them up from the ashes of Sonic Forces. They’ve both grown a lot, Blaze opening up, and Silver finding the confidence to be a hero. Silver is currently still in the present time, unknown what apocalypse scenario he’s been called to prevent.

As Silver and Dapple sneak around to try and get to the bottom of Blackwood’s plot, Blaze takes a more direct and conversational approach. It seems Blackwood has been gifted his abilities by a mysterious benefactor, which have allowed him to become this despot; he and others plan to reshape the world in their image thanks to these miraculous gifts. Not only this, he intends to seduce Blaze and have her rule beside him. Naturally, having subjects who follow without free will is no mark of respect, nor makes one a true king. Blaze takes great offense at the idea a leader has any duty but to protect. I have always taken issue with the idea that Blaze is the ruler of an Empire, I think it’s a poor choice of word as it has some nasty implications, she has never seen to try to expand her domain or subjugate others, so really it isn’t an accurate descriptor that this book, being for children, isn’t able to properly discuss.

Something else that Blackwood can’t understand is that Blaze and Silver are equals. He cannot comprehend the idea of a Royal having anyone who isn’t a servant and he tries to undermine Silver’s confidence, but fails. Dapple’s mind control takes over again as she is forced to fight Silver, he encourages her to resist, to remember everything she has and the fact she’s the only one able to help right now, to take down Blackwood. Blackwood has taken the unconscious Blaze, so their target is clear. The issue ends with the castle transforming into a giant, robotic four-legged bird!? Or maybe some kind of feathered dragon.

I’m sure whoever Blackwood’s benefactor is will tie into this greater Road to 100 Saga, which is a huge milestone for this comic, especially with a pretty much consistent creative team. This was a very strong issue, great action, themes of agency, community and friendship which have been so key to this run, and always important messages for kids to hear. The art by Alex Forrest is really good, a newcomer to IDW’s Sonic by the looks of things, the characters are nice and expressive, a few wonky poses but otherwise great, the backgrounds are a real stand-out. Sylvania feels like a well-realised location thanks to these illustrations. The pastel colours from the returning Iasmin Omar Ata are also extremely pleasant to look at, complementing the teal and orange of Silver and Blaze’s abilities in every panel.