Secret Six #14 – A Turning Point in Shadows and Steel
Genre:
Superhero, Action, Psychological Drama, Dark Comedy
Main Characters:
- Strix
– A mute assassin and former Talon of the Court of Owls, struggling with
her humanity and loyalties.
- Lady
Shiva – Deadly martial artist and a formidable figure within the
League of Assassins.
- Catman
(Thomas Blake) – The morally complex leader of the Secret Six.
- Black
Alice – A troubled young woman with magical abilities who often steals
powers from other magic users.
- Porcelain
– A unique meta-human capable of shattering any material with a touch.
- Ventriloquist
(Shauna Belzer) – A creepy psychic ventriloquist with a sinister
puppet named Ferdie.
- Big
Shot (Ralph Dibny) – A man of secrets with a hidden past tied to
classic DC continuity.
- League
of Assassins – A powerful and secretive organization of deadly
warriors.
- [Spoiler
- Returning Hero] – The issue hints at the dramatic return of a
well-known DC character, weaving legacy into the present.
Writer:
Gail Simone – Known for her character-driven
narratives and psychological insight, Simone brings depth and dark humor to
this ensemble title.
Artist:
Dale Eaglesham – His bold linework and expressive
character designs offer a dynamic visual flow, capturing both intensity and
absurdity with flair.
Editor Details:
Marie Javins – With her meticulous oversight, she
ensures continuity, emotional tone, and character development are consistent
with DC’s standards.
Publisher and Brand:
DC Comics – The New 52
Part of DC’s New 52 initiative, Secret Six explores morally grey
themes with lesser-known but richly layered characters.
Release Year:
2016
Brief Plot Summary:
In Secret Six #14, chaos erupts as long-simmering
tensions finally boil over. The Secret Six find themselves face-to-face with
the deadly League of Assassins. The spotlight lands on Strix, who must confront
her dark past when she battles the cold and fearsome Lady Shiva. Meanwhile, an
unexpected party brings together allies and enemies, setting the stage for
betrayal, redemption, and the explosive return of a beloved DC superhero. The
surreal, almost sitcom-like party sequence contrasts sharply with the brutal
action, making this issue a blend of suspense, surprise, and offbeat humor.
Notable Arcs or Storylines:
This issue marks a pivotal moment in the "House of
Strangers" arc, signaling a major evolution in Strix’s character
journey and the shifting alliances of the Secret Six. It also subtly
re-integrates legacy characters from DC’s pre-New 52 universe.
Fan Theories or Interpretations:
Fans speculate that the reintroduction of a classic DC hero
could hint at a slow merging of New 52 and pre-Flashpoint continuity,
especially considering Ralph Dibny’s ambiguous role. Others believe Strix’s
emotional conflict may foreshadow her departure from the assassin's path and
full integration into the heroic side of the DCU.
Review Summary:
Secret Six #14 delivers a compelling mix of raw action and twisted humor. Gail Simone’s script balances emotional depth with eccentricity, allowing each character a moment of reflection or reckoning. Dale Eaglesham’s art is vibrant and expressive, capturing the intensity of combat and the strange, surreal feel of a party gone off the rails. The character work—especially with Strix and Black Alice—adds heart and weight to an already chaotic plot. It’s a standout issue in a series that thrives on unpredictability and emotional grit.
Comic Resource / Read Online (External Source)
