1. Daredevil Stands In the Ultimate Mexican Standoff; Walks Away Without Throwing a Punch
It's the moment in issue six that gets Matt in the scenario that he solves in "Hell Night." Surrounded by representatives of organizations including Hydra, AIM, and other major Marvel players, Matt makes a bold move in rescue, claiming that as long as he's got the drive, the terrorists don't have to duel to the death for it at the present time. It's a major bluff and one that only proves Matt to have a limited amount of time, but the the groups don't call it and Matt Murdock walks away without having to throw a single punch. Because Waid's Daredevil run is just as much about intelligent play as it is charm, heart, and action. There's a sensibility to this run that's been lost the past few years, and its return feels like an emboldened step with the character. Matt is no longer a complete douchebag, but a reformed and rehabilitating character. He's still got a lot of issues left to clear up, and things are definitely not getting easier, but at least we've replaced his angst and rage with heart and understanding. We're getting back to the hero under the mask instead of returning to the self-titled savior of the city. So, if you haven't been reading Daredevil lately, you've only been slowly poisoning your brain with drollness, my friends. It's certainly worth a look.