You can’t have a SIEGE on Asgard and not have one of Asgard’s most famous Valkyries involved. Sure, Dani Moonstar’s powers as a Valkyrie have only recently been given back to her by Hela herself, but what better way to promote the de-powered mutant than have her help out with SIEGE?
I have to admit, I really enjoyed this story. It was by no means essential to the SIEGE storyline, and meant next to nothing to the New Mutants, but it was an interesting piece of stand-alone reading. I was especially impressed by the way writer Kieron Gillen referenced Tyr’s internal struggles from the pages of Thor in this book.
The art might have been the thing that put this story over the top for me though. I loved Niko Henrichon’s solo work on this book. The Canadian artist has a very expressive style that comes across as a more refined sketchbook. Very rich and textured, and perfect when dealing with the dark Asgardian world of Hel.
This is a story of growth and determination, two characteristics Dani has had to refine ever since losing her mutant ability. I would love to see her remain in the spotlight, but as a true Valkyrie.