R.E.B.E.L.S. Annual #1 - DC

This issue serves as the origin story of Starro the Conqueror. We've seen the Starro threat on Earth many times . . mostly in the Justice League books. But it's also shown up in Legion, LEGION and REBELS a few times. Now, with this story, we find out the true power behind the Starro, and the Motherstars. Basically, the story begins with what happening currently in the REBELS book, and then unwinds in reverse. As we go through each chapter, we learn a little more about the depth and meaning of this character. We find out that the end of the book that the story is being narrated by the motherstar that is attached to it's master's chest. We see the recent events of the Starro's conquering the Dominator homeworld which leads to Vril Dox enclosing half the sector in a force field. We then go back a bit to see Starro's conquering of Kalanor, Despero's homeworld. This ultimately leads to him killing Despero. This was done with the help of his first in command, Astrild. She is completely devoted to Starro, of her own volition, so then we see her origin story. Her power, and the planning of Starro's conquests is done by a group he has assembled called the High Vanguard. One of which is named Smite. We then learn his origin, and how he became to be part of his Vanguard. And finally we learn where Starro the Conqueror came from, the planet Hatorei, and how as a child, Cobi could resist the Motherstars and eventually became their master. But this is a story of irony and displaced virtue. 'My master seeks opponents who embody the highest virtue and the lowest depravity. He tests their morality to prove how empty such notions are in the face of overwhelming power. My master believes he does this with the goal that one day the universe will be of one mind: his. But as I told you, I have watched his story unfold from the start . . I have borne mute witness to all of his acts, and I tell you that Starro the Conqueror is not searching for victory. For deep within him dwells that time-lost boy from Hatorei who once knew love and hope and family. A boy who yearns for someone, anyone, to prove that heroes do exist and goodness counts for something in this cold, indifferent cosmos. Alas, the hideous strength of nine galaxies bolsters Starro, forever ensuring him victory . . denying him the peace of mind that he has imposed upon trillions, yet cannot find within himself.' Very interesting. Tony Bedard did a great job of stringing this story together. I like the way it all unfolded. This issue also contained many artists . . Claude St.Aubin, Karl Moline & Marn Pennington, Derec Donovan, and Kalman Adnrasofszky. I thought it was a great issue and provided us with the defining origin of this character. I wonder why they didn't do this in one of those Faces of Evil books? Anyways, great story . . and a great character.