Mysteries deepen, despite the revelation of the identity of the mysterious Red Cloud. It is a spectral being responsible for much of the mayhem currently happening in Metropolis. Clark Kent is tracking it as best a reporter can, while as Superman he has precious little to go on.

It doesn’t help he is currently distracted by the rash of fires in the city. New deputy fire chief Melody Moore is ham strung by the political climate, leading her to seek out Kent (at Superman’s suggestion) as an ally to make some headway in the public’s interest.

I appreciate the real world multi-dimension Bendis has brought to the series, though the special guest appearance of one of DC’s other heroes leaves me a bit confused. Is it the introduction of a player with greater significance, or simply a cameo by someone who’s been off-stage too long? One thing I’ve learned with Bendis is you just never know. But I’m willing to be patient.

Ryan Sook’s artwork is nothing short of refreshing. It’s simple, elegant, and evokes the innocence for which Superman is recognized, while remaining sophisticated and ambitious.

As for the revelation, well, we kind of saw that coming. But that’s okay. It’s not as if it was painfully obvious like other recent plot elements.

Rating: 9/10 (mostly for art)