Would you bend your principles if it meant protecting your loved ones? That’s the question plaguing the recently revived Master Splinter in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #15, and one that writer Gene Luen Yang isn’t offering a simple answer to. It’s something each of our heroes will have to reckon with as they learn the truth about their Master’s new mission.
This book finally reveals Splinter’s fate after his demise. He was transported to the land of the dead, Yomi-No-Kuni, and reunited with his love, Tang Shen. From there, they tend to the Tree of Fates, allowing them glimpses into potential futures. Colorist Andrew Dalhouse wraps these scenes in a white film, giving them an ethereal feel. Though their lives are peaceful, Splinter continues to be troubled over the tragic fates he sees for his sons. Despite Shen’s nervousness, Splinter immediately returns when a portal to the living world opens. It’s a tragic end to their time together. Splinter’s new peace can’t last because he can’t let his mind rest. Like any loving father, it always drifts to his sons.
The Mystery of the Ujigami: Splinter’s Brutal New Mission
Splinter had spent the last few issues as the Ujigami, a mysterious ronin hunting down the Turtles’ enemies and dispatching them in brutal ways. This comes into direct conflict with how he raised them, as he chooses the dishonorable way of justice instead of the honorable one. The Turtles struggle with that knowledge when they learn the truth, unsure if they should stay true to their master’s lessons or to the man himself. It sets up an agonizing central conflict, and one that’s sure to drive a wedge between the already fractured brothers.
A Father’s Choice: The Moral Conflict of Gene Luen Yang’s Story
It’s hard to fault Splinter now that we know his motivations. His love for his sons runs deep. Watching their repeated murders is a fate worse than death, and he acts only to preserve their lives. Sticking to your morals is important, but that’s little comfort if it means the death of your family. Yang knows that Splinter’s conundrum is this book’s greatest strength, and he weaves the consequences into every interaction.
Dynamic Action and Art: Freddie E. Williams II and Andrew Dalhouse
Freddie E. Williams II’s art remains a bright spot. His action scenes are dynamic and fast-paced, showcasing the full skills of the Ninja Turtles. On page two, Williams’ masterful use of perspective makes Rafael’s dramatic descent from the ceiling to rescue Casey Jones look colossal. When they burst through a brick wall on the following page, we see the debris crumble over the panel lines, creating a seamless flow to the action. Letterer Shawn Lee punctuates each move with a sound effect, with each HWAK and KRASH adding noise to the battle.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #15 doesn’t shy away from the compromises that come with family, and no character embodies this more than Splinter. He may have left Tang Shen behind to follow a path of violence, but he’s doing it to save his sons. Yang asks the morally tough questions, while Williams and Dalhouse bring each scene to life in vivid detail. Put yourself in Splinter’s shoes. Wouldn’t you do the same?
Read More from KPB Comics:
‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ #15 | Master Splinter Breaks His Code
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #15 doesn’t shy away from the compromises that come with family, and no character embodies this more than Splinter. He may have left Tang Shen behind to follow a path of violence, but he’s doing it to save his sons. Yang asks the morally tough questions, while Williams and Dalhouse bring each scene to life in vivid detail. Put yourself in Splinter’s shoes. Wouldn’t you do the same?
