“Days Missing” is back, with the first issue of the second series hitting stands this past Wednesday. The Steward is back in “Days Missing: Kestus” which brings a new character to this wonderful story.
“The Sword” introduces Kestus, and it would appear that she is a similar being to The Steward. In the prologue, The Steward discovers that the days he has “folded” in Earth’s past have been “unfolded” and he believes that Kestus is the culprit.
The major part of the story is set in 531 BCE, and shows the first meeting between The Steward and Kestus. She is pretending to be a goddess, leading her followers to conquer various peoples of China. The Steward sees that humanity will suffer greatly if this is allowed, and he guides a young boy not only in ways to make and use better weapons, but also in wisdom and knowledge that will help him be able to bring his village together and stand strong in the face of the enemy. I will not spoil it for those who have not yet read the issue, but as with parts of the first series, this story involves a real, historical figure.
Once the day is folded, as usual, there are no conscious memories of The Steward. There are lingering thoughts in the backs of people’s minds about what happened on that “missing” day, while the events progress the way he intends. Except, there is one person who does remember his presence and his actions – Kestus. While it is not yet known what the ultimate result of this will be, writer Phil Hester is certainly leading the readers to believe that this first meeting between these characters will have a definite impact on both of their lives.
This is a wonderful story, very well written. Hester truly has grasped the concept that creator Trevor Roth has for the characters and the series. The story is compelling, and while each issue is a self-contained chapter, the underlying arc should keep readers coming back for the entire tale.
Artist David Marquez has really captured The Steward. Stern and mysterious, but concerned and caring, all of the right emotions are seen in each panel. Not just in his face but in his bearing, Marquez shows you The Steward’s soul through his art.
There is an added bonus at the end of the issue. Roth is making his writing debut, giving us “The First Fold” which is a story about the background of The Steward. “The Steward’s origin remains shrouded in mystery … for now … But the discovery of his abilities I bestow on thee!” says Roth in a short letter to readers at the end of this first installment of “The First Fold.”While only two pages, it is a nice start to a story I hope will give us even more insight into this interesting character.
This is truly good storytelling. A great concept, told expertly and vividly. Characters about which readers can care, and a story that keeps readers interested and wanting more. A nice mix of science fiction and history, with a touch of mystery and realism. Plus, a lesson about humanity. A wonderful combination.
