As this chapter of Nocterra races towards a close, everything is coming together. In the true spirit of “No Brakes”, this is another issue that is over before you know it. Scott Snyder and Tony S. Daniel have crafted such an intricate post-apocalyptic world that the best way to make sense of it is through Emory’s steps to an experiment. In this issue, there is a significant focus on the present rather than interweaving the past. Unlike previous issues of this arc, the past is a narrative tool to reflect Emory’s actions rather than to parallel them.
In this issue, the step we are focused on is “why”, which plays a big role in how the rest of this chapter of Nocterra will unfold. The recent discoveries in Eden seem to have shaken the Sundog Convoy to its core. Any steps after this will be decided by how they respond now. That said, Scott Snyder places a heavy emphasis on the “why” stage of an experiment throughout this. This is reflected both in the meaning behind Emory’s past and present challenges. Narratively, it makes sense for this to follow with “how” because of how the two interweave throughout the issue. It’s a tool utilized as a massive if/then statement that directs readers towards what lies ahead. Overall, this choice has proven to be paying off in spades as it is an easy-to-follow strategy that can successfully keep readers engaged while practically working alongside Emory.
Tony S. Daniel has shown a strong resurgence in masterclass line work lately, and this issue reiterates that his strength lies in action sequences. Dialogue-heavy pages may appear a little slow-paced in contrast to the more intense ones, but this also provides a needed breath for readers to better understand what’s going on. After all, a fight scene is just a fight without a plot. Through this issue, there is a healthy balance of things culminating at an accelerated rate, so when the pages appear more stagnate, the tone is better reflected. Altogether, this issue is another enjoyable issue of Tony S. Daniel partnering with Marcelo Maiolo to create vibrant sequences that overall can keep the reader invested in the fast-paced story.
As a whole, Nocterra #15 is another solid entry in the series that sets up the upcoming Nocterra: Nemesis Special before the final issue in this arc. Things seem to be ramping up rather quickly for the Sundog Convoy, and at this point, it’s time to batten down the hatches as things are likely to quite literally reach an explosive conclusion soon. Emory is once again showing that the spotlight was never meant for Val alone, as this arc has continued to immerse readers into the psyche of Emory while contributing to the threat at hand.
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