Bastard Samurai #3

The cover of this 2002 Image series delivers a striking composition: a massive black silhouette of a sword-wielding samurai looms over a rooftop cityscape, while a fallen figure lies below amid cherry blossoms and scattered debris. The stark contrast between the dominant shadow and the cool blue-purple tones of the city below — penciled by Kelsey Shannon and inked by Mike Avon Oeming — gives the scene an atmosphere of quiet menace. Bastard Samurai #3 is a compelling addition to this series, blending traditional samurai imagery with a moody urban aesthetic.