...if he can die, that means he's alive.
The first issue of Valiant's Rai is confusing for newcomers to the character, but rewarding once you grasp the concept behind this spectacular comic.
The setting takes place in a 41st century Utopian Japan where having robot companions and flying cars are the norm. Japan is governed by one being, known as the Father. The Father is mostly praised by the citizens of Japan, especially since there hasn't been a murder in 1000 years. Although not everyone sees eye to eye with the Father. A ragtag group of rebels known as "Raddies" have formed in Japan, dedicated to preserving the rights and freedom of the robot companions known as Positrons. Normally the Raddies stay behind the scenes only killing the robot police of Japan, but the beginning of this new comic starts with the Raddies committing the first murder in 1000 years, and it's a big deal.
That's where Rai comes in. Rai is the protector of Japan, and takes orders from the Father himself. To many, Rai is a legend, meant only to keep people in line and obeying laws. But not for a young, bubbly, pink-haired girl named Lula. Lula witnessed two Raddies dumping a body in her district of Japan, and now she knew she would get to meet Rai.
Matt Kindt creates an awesome and intricate story with his beautiful combination of a little girl, Lula, and a valiant (see what I did there?) hero, Rai. Combine this story with the stunning (no really, it's amazing.) art of Clayton Crain, and you've got yourself one good comic book. I recommend giving this one a shot. You'll be buying issue #2 in no time.