Broken Frontier

Set in the fantasy realm, rather then the far flung future of WH40K, this title is just as grimy and chaotic as it’s dark sci-fi cousin. Written by Kieron Gillen (Phonogram) it opens with a wizard in typical wizard garb sacrificing an unknown man (the last of four) in the forest surrounded by his zombie-like flunkies. All we know is that this ritual will bring another month of safety for, well, we don’t know that either, but at least it’s an intriguing way to start.

The story then moves on to a local tavern in Wissenland. Battle hardened warriors Sergeant Frohlich and Markus are reminiscing and arguing about a legendary battle with much bravado and immaturity, when Frohlich, who was wounded in both body and reputation, is given a chance at new glory.

He helps lead a border patrol on the edges of the Empire’s territory amidst stories of disappearing travellers and soldiers. Frohlich and his men, the Greatswords are tasked with discovering and eradicating the source of the townsfolk’s distress. Two scouts bravely head out into the dark woods first and spot a rat creature unusually travelling alone. The pair know that Skaven travel in packs, and they soon learn that their first victim is the exception, not the rule. A battle ensues between the vermin horde and the “man-things” as the Skaven call them.

Not a lot happens in this issue, but it is an effective world builder. I hope there is more than a battle for the remainder of this series’ three issues however. With the brief appearance of the evil sorcerer, plus a Skaven wizard seen planning the movements of his hairy brethren soldiers, I can only assume it will be a battle between rat magic and human ingenuity, which at least will be interesting to witness.

The art by Dwayne Harris is similar to John Paul Leon, yet rendered with more texture and detail. There are some inconsistencies between pages, but more often than not his art seems to fall somewhere between cel shading and wood carvings. An odd combination, but in this old world setting it works. 

This will mean more to WH fans; those who play the games, and read the multitude of novels and comics. For a relative WH newbie like myself it almost seemed like just another fantasy tale. I must say though that the costume design is unique. The Skaven’s wooden hand cannons and the Greatswords uniforms, complete with puffy sleeves and feathers, give it a unusual visual charm and this helps set it apart from the pack of Lord of the Rings wannabes.