G. Willow Wilson and Chris Wildgoose continue to expand a rich world, delving deeper into characters and conflicts in this week’s The Hunger and The Dusk Book Two #3. The issue heightens the current tension and anticipation as we watch the Last Men Standing attempt to survive without their leader, Cal, who is on a trek to reunite with Tara.

The Last Men's struggles are the focus on the issue and we see them facing the harsh realities of an ever-changing climate while they’re holed up in a cave to avoid new torrential downpours that replaced extreme heat and fires. Wildgoose's artwork shines in these scenes, capturing the group's camaraderie and desperation. His visual representation of their cramped, makeshift shelter effectively conveys their vulnerability and a world closing in around them.

Through their story, Wilson also fleshes out the world's complexities, showcasing the harsh realities of survival, struggles for resources and the ever-present threat of the Vangol army. The world's rapid decline is mirrored in the characters' desperation, making their struggles feel authentic and relatable. It was also great to see the Red Screamers, another band of human warriors who have been mentioned in previous issues. They reminded me of the “Tailies” from LOST, who we always heard about but didn’t see for quite some time. It would be great to get future one-shots that reveal how other groups of humans and/or orcs have been surviving.

On the flip side, Cal's scenes may be the “B” side of the issue but Wilson explores his struggles, showcasing a mix of personal loyalty and desperation that weighs him down. What he observes on his journey serves as a microcosm for the world's dire state, highlighting the fragile peace between humans and orcs hanging precariously in the balance as the world crumbles around them. It’s a sad reminder of our own society’s fragility as it hangs on the precipice in our current political climate.

Wildgoose's artwork remains a particular highlight, especially in action sequences. His detailed backgrounds have always helped to world-build and that continues in this issue. His visual style remains immersive, drawing readers into the world and providing small clues to the state of the world in details as minute as clothing. M.Sassy.K’s colors help bring these designs to life in vivid detail.

So far each issue in Book Two has explored the dynamics of different characters while pushing the larger story's scope to the background. The Vangol army's plans haven’t been visited in some time and the threat Wilson built towards the end of Book One doesn’t feel as high as it once did. I don’t doubt Wilson's pacing is deliberate, building tension and anticipation, but there are only so many issues left and I’d hate to see things rushed at the end.

Overall, The Hunger and The Dusk Book Two #3 is another exceptional installment in this high fantasy series. Wilson's storytelling and Wildgoose's art combine to create an engaging world, expertly balanced with character development and action.

Rating: 9/10