Plot
This new story arc makes it clear that Geiger needs a cure, as his condition is becoming increasingly unstable. Junkyard Joe's appearance is a mystery, but it seems his intentions are to help; there's even a flashback showing Red Coat. Little by little, all these soldier heroes of this universe are connecting.

Meanwhile, the engineer who created Junkyard Joe, The Custodian, is tracking his robot, which is experiencing toxic levels of obsession. He's very close to reaching Ash Arden's lair. The Custodian has a secret alliance and plan with President Griffin.

Ash Arden is the female version of Geiger, who apparently managed to control her powers. She is possibly the cure Tariq is looking for.

Ash Arden begins training Tariq to control his power after removing the Boro rods. According to Ash, it's a process of mind control over anger, but Ash is keeping secrets, such as having Dr. Molotov imprisoned. There's a flashback showing how they met: Molotov was searching for Geiger and stumbled upon her—a very similar case. Ash has Molotov locked up; she needs him for her plan. Molotov warns her that Geiger is dangerous.

Geiger confronts Ash and demands answers about her many lies, such as hiding Molotov. She replies that she's using him because he's a remorseless killer, while she suffers for all those he has killed. Her plan is this: detonate the bomb, and Geiger will absorb the energy and radiation from everything, including hers, stripping her of her powers. She will be happy, regardless of whether the entire town dies in the process.

Ash repents and helps Geiger. She goes her own way, and Geiger does too, accompanied by Molotov, Nate, Junkyard Joe, and their pets.

This comic is a masterpiece with messages about empathy and second chances in a world that seems impossible to deal with.It's undoubtedly one of the best comic series currently available.


Art
Gary Frank and Brad Anderson strike the perfect balance of highly detailed, organic art with clear colors that hide nothing. Every panel on every page is mesmerizing.

Rob Leigh's lettering is an onomatopoeic adrenaline rush.