Immortal X-Men #16: Voices From a White Hot Room

Aside from the incredibly clever philosophical implications of this story (and, believe me, there are a number of them in play) writer Kieron Gillen has managed the unenviable task of propelling a deeply complex story while also revealing new depths of characters that have been well explored for decades. The fact that he has done so in a manner that is as beautiful as it is entertaining is an astonishing accomplishment.

Aside from providing readers with glimpses into the Jungian-tinged inner lives of Exodus, Destiny, and Hope (as well as bringing Charles Xavier face to face with a literal reflection of his own demons) Gillen has granted readers a crash course in a branch of revelatory mysticism that one would more expect to find in an Alan Moore book than something released by mainstream Marvel. It’s difficult to go into too much detail without crossing over into spoiler territory, but I will say that every heart forges their own image of Satan, and every Morning Star you battle, like Jacob’s angel, gives you a gift alongside a wound.

Destiny’s journey is the quietest, on the page, but her story looks to be (in many ways) the most profound. Gillen is setting her up for an incredible transformation, as well as using her brilliantly to say something real about the nature of faith.

Lucas Werneck’s line work is perfectly suited for the story at hand. His skills grow stronger with every issue, depicting desert battles, quiet council, and the bloody rib cages of shattered foes with equal skill and aplomb. David Curiel’s colors add depth and sheen to whichever scene he turns his hand to. It is as a book that’s as lovely in design as it is in structure.