Fallen Angels #2: Conscience is a Prison

The underbelly of Krakoa continues to rumble in Fallen Angels #2, a book that finds virtue in patience as well as understanding how to harness even the cruelest emotions to do what is ultimately right. It’s a meditative look at the implications of mutants on Krakoa, taking readers tepidly into a new perspective of what it means to be a hero.

Writer Bryan Hill continues the journey of Psylocke in the new issue of Fallen Angels by pushing her in the direction of a leader, capable of teaching mutants how to handle the darker aspects of themselves that others on Krakoa simply don’t understand. Is it the most action-packed issue of the “Dawn of X” titles? Certainly not. But it doesn’t intend to be and that’s perfectly okay.

Instead, we find an intricate narrative that brings together these characters in a way that feels both organic and more importantly, worthwhile. Not simply because of the dangers that Apoth presents, which is absolutely warranted, but because of the darker side of some mutants that simply goes without notice. The real success of Fallen Angels #2 comes from it’s ability to explore these emotional impacts and how characters like Psylocke, Laura and a young Cable interact with both Krakoa and fellow mutants. We get fun appearances with characters like Dazzler, but they mostly serve as an interesting contrast to the almost brooding sense we get from the main cast of characters. There are also multiple information pages that dive into a philosophical explanation of The One, and if you look closely there are mentions of both the Hand and Madripoor, so stay on the lookout for some more familiar components to show up soon.

Emphasizing such different traits of those on Krakoa opens up the narrative to give more insight into what exactly is happening with Psylocke’s new mission, but this book simply wouldn’t feel the same without the artwork from Szymon Kudranski and Frank D’Armata. This issue feels a bit more polished thanks to less awkward panels, but it might not be enough for people who were not thrilled with the first issue. The dark aesthetic is punctuated with vibrant colors, but the heavy usage of shadows could be a love it or hate it issue among fans. I, for one, love it. It accompanies the themes explored in the story remarkably well.

Overall, Fallen Angels #2 is a successful step forward for the series, capitalizing on what made the first issue so intriguing while taking the necessary time to build up each influencing characters’ motivations. Fans of Psylocke will absolutely be thrilled at the developments, while those looking for a deeper insight into the operations on Krakoa will also be pleased. Though it takes it’s time to set up the coming fight, it seems to be well worth the wait!