One of the joys of reading Dark Knights of Steel has been how Tom Taylor and Yasmine Putri dropped us into a medieval version of the DC universe, forcing readers to figure out how things are different. Throughout the series, truths have been revealed, the enemy further established, and a rich world has unveiled itself. This week, DC Comics aims to unveil it a bit more with Dark Knights of Steel: Tales From the Three Kingdoms, an anthology of three stories exploring moments in the past that defined Bruce Wayne, Zala, and Kal-El.
This anthology is broken up into three stories, with the first written by Taylor, the second by bestselling writer Jay Kristoff, and the third by bestselling writer C.S. Pacat. The first features gorgeously colored and rendered art by Caspar Wijngaard exploring Jimmy Olsen’s role in this universe, the second is drawn by Sean Izaakse detailing how the Robins came into Batman’s fold, and the final story is drawn by Michele Bandini, tying Bane into Bruce Wayne’s narrative. All told, each story gives us a sense of who the younger Bruce, Zala, and Kal-El were, cementing that they weren’t just friends, but family.
The first story is like Bruce, Zala, and Kal-El’s first mission. Jimmy has gone missing, and the three team up to find him. They uncover some terrible atrocities going on, and we also get to see how a few familiar faces fit in within the universe. If you enjoy adventures with younger teen heroes, you’ll enjoy the general vibe of the tale. Wijngaard’s customary use of pinks and purples enhances the energy and excitement in scenes, and he does incredible work with the main monster that is revealed. Throw in the fact that this tale sets something up for the main series, and it’s a good addition to the universe.
The flying was a dead giveaway, dude.
Credit: DC Comics
Next up is the story titled “The Flock” by Kristoff and Izaakse, detailing a story set five years before the main story’s events. Kal-El and Harley Quinn are good friends, and it’s fun to see their relationship explored. Izaakse shows why he’s one of the best to draw superhero comics these days with highly detailed scenes during a carnival. Batman’s Zoro-style costume is a nice touch, while the medieval garb of Kal-El and Harley is welcome.
Wrapping up a book is a very cool take on Bane, a kind of vigilante who distrusts the Els as rulers of the kingdom. Props to C.S. Pacat for making Bane the “King’s Bane” to tie things together. This story is set a few years earlier than the last, as Bruce is only a young boy. Given his history of being trained by villains like Ra’s al Ghul, it’s neat to see Bane take on that role to teach him how to fight. Bane’s armor looks super cool and fitting for the medieval setting. This tale also may lead to some reveals in the main book, making it a must-read with a solid twist ending.
Each of the stories in Dark Knights of Steel: Tales From the Three Kingdoms offer something different with good characterization and great art. Some tales add more to the mythos of this universe, but all in all, it’s an enjoyable must-read, especially if you’ve been enjoying the main series.
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