Green Hornet: Year One, #2

Let's move forward a bit with this very fine Matt Wagner / Aaron Campbell 2010 series from Dynamite. Entertainment.

I recall absolutely loving this book. I've been reluctant to go back to it for fear of being unable to prevent myself from completing it too quickly. But issue one was revisited back in March, so I think we're okay.
 

In the first issue, a group of thugs led by one "Johnny Batter" attempted to bully some union workers who were not honouring the wishes of a mob boss named "Skid" Caruso. The Green Hornet and Kato stepped in to put an end to it. 

In this issue, those same thugs need to face the music. 

Johnny explains that they were attacked by a new "mug" in a crazy green mask and his enforcer. 

This portion of the book takes place in 1938. We bounce around a fair bit in time in this particular issue, so try to keep up.

We then look back at two years earlier when Young Britt Reid was still in his educational world travels. At this point, he is in Kenya, establishing a media industry.

Not everyone is appreciative of his efforts.

Britt and his friend Adisa are forced to run for their lives. Adisa) is shot dead during the chase. 

In 1938, The Green Hornet interrupts another Caruso project, this time a shipment of guns. 

As usual, GH has backup...

In Kenya, still being chased through the jungle, Britt finds inspiration.

Britt is able to cover himself in mud, then strike the hornets' nest with a rock, to cause his pursuers to be attacked by the insects. In the ensuing confusion, he can finally escape for good. 

In 1937, we are shown portion of Kato's military career and its impact on him. He is involved with Japan's invasion of the Chinese mainland. 

I am different than when we last met, father, for I have no killed other men - an experience that changes one forever. I am even more grateful for your instruction and your wisdom 

...nothing could have prepared me for the carnage and horrors that now greet me daily. We have occupied the capital for three weeks, an event I feel certain will someday be known as... 

The book concludes in the "present", being 1938, with the Green Hornet poking the bear.

And so the Hornet continues to establish himself as a criminal businessman looking to push Caruso out of business.

Good stuff, representing, to the best of my own knowledge, the era very well, as does this brilliant alternate cover by Francesco Francavilla.