I've heard people criticize this issue for a few weeks, while I waited for my dcbs shipment to arrive and found some time to sit down and critically read this issue. After reading this issue multiple times, it is clear that the criticism levied against this issue is completely unwarranted. The art is absolutely perfect. Every page is beautifully drawn, complex, and seamlessly structured. It is uncommon for an artist to take my breath away with every panel, while at the same time expertly telling a compelling story. No page feels cluttered or filler, which is are common problems in many modern comics. In less capable hands this book could have been a total failure because the series requires a immense level of detail in order to truly convey the scope and complexity of Hickman's story. Im relieved that Marvel is giving Weaver enough time to work on this book and not rushing it out with fill-ins. Now to the writing. Hickman in this issue truly brings his Image style to Marvel. Although there are some familiar Marvel characters (Stark and Richards), the story is all Hickman. The first issue was Hickman introducing the characters but in the second issue Hickman is setting up the conflict of the series, Fatalism vs. Free Will/Self Determinism, and how Lenoid will be the one to decide which direction mankind will go. This conflict is especially timely and relevant. Hickman also explores the concepts of alternate realities and time travel, without losing the main focus of the story. It is true that this book is not for the Marvel Zombies or those who read only mainstream superhero series, but for those who truly want to be challenged and want to read the future of the comics medium, this is an essential series to pick up. Ten years from now, people will look back and see S.H.I.E.L.D. as a turning point for comics and we can say that we were there at the beginning.