X-Force #15

Some real action really takes place in this issue. Previous issues of the Messiah War story were so slow, but this issue picks up the pace quite a bit. We get an actually entertaining fight with Stryfe, Cable finally does something cool, and a few more threats show up to throw some twists into the plot.

The attacks on Stryfe were intense. I think Craig Kyle and Chris Yost made a clever decision to tell the story from Stryfe's point of view. Hearing Cable say "I must protect the baby," and Bishop saying the opposite was old and tired. Stryfe's narrative provided some fresh material. I also enjoyed his reaction to every attack, whether it was overconfidence or surprise.

Speaking of surprises, Cable did more than whine this issue. He's always been a cool character to me and it's noble to see him want to protect Hope, but I was tired of him just talking about it. Cable finally does something about it this issue when he attacks Stryfe. Seeing him use his powers on Stryfe was awesome because, `1) I'm a fan, and 2) his powers have long been believed to be dormant. I hope he gets all his powers back and becomes the bad ass he was meant to be.

I also happen to be a fan of Apocalypse, so I was pleased to see his return to power at the end of the issue. His defeat at the hands of Stryfe and Bishop was a little hard to swallow, therefore I am thoroughly looking forward to him whooping up on those pricks. The whole scene where he heals himself was kind of cool. I just hope we get some clarification as to the cause of his rejuvenation.

The art in this issue struggles. Clayton Crain's work is under detailed and comes off a bit smudgy at times. His fight panels are the best parts, but all other panels are bland and unattractive.

I was really impressed with X-Factor #15. The Messiah War story finally seems like it is going somewhere and Cable feels cool again. At one point in this issue, Stryfe wonders to himself what is so important about Hope. I think that is foreshadowing her much-awaited explanation. This issue actually makes me think we may find out something about Hope's powers and destiny.