A few months have gone by since I've been blessed with a Daredevil book. Like Thor, the writing of this series has been good enough to keep me interested during its hiatus. Also fortunate, this issue continues to build on a great story and further makes Kingpin one of the coolest villains ever.As with every good Daredevil story, the last issue of the Return of the King arc left Matt Murdock's life in shambles. His public image is ruined, his friends have lost faith in him, and his only ally is the Kingpin of all people. This issue builds on that rough situation by having Daredevil more confused than ever. He sides with the Kingpin even when he sees all the mob bosses being murdered. He finds out information after the Hell's Kitchen police force have known about it for days. He even screams out for Master Izo's help knowing full well that Izo is nowhere within shouting distance. Daredevil's confusion has left him almost hopeless, which will make his confrontation with the Kingpin next issue that much more incredible.
Speaking of the Kingpin, Ed Brubanker builds on his character brilliantly. Throughout this issue there's this mystery of who's playing who. Kingpin sends the Owl to act like a traitor. Lady Bullseye plays along until she feels like killing his crew. And the Owl is too stupid to realize he's being played by both sides. In the last few pages we're treated to a conversation between Kingpin and Lady Bullseye. She leads us to believe that she's been testing the Kingpin the entire time and he's passed with flying colors. I believe, however, Kingpin is the man with the plan. He'll use Lady Bullseye's attack on Foggy, which he planned, to enrage Daredevil enough for him to take out Lady Bullseye. This will get the Hand out of his life and maybe get Daredevil to trust him, although I'm sure he also has a plan to take Daredevil out. I can't wait until next month to find out what happens in the final chapter.
As usual, the art from Michael Lark fits perfectly. The book has a very noir look to it. The sky is always dark, shadows dominate a person's expression, and danger is lurking everywhere. Lark also captures emotion very well. Daredevil looks desperate for answers when patrolling the city and Kingpin is both melancholy and furious about his new status in life.
Next issue, Daredevil #500 (another fake anniversary issue), will be great. I have no doubt about it. The Return of the King has slowly been building a murder and mystery story that will leave one of the three main players out of luck. Just like a good game of clue, I am constantly thinking up cool scenarios while eagerly anticipating the final answer.
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