Aspen Comics 2015
Written by J.T. Krul
Penciled by Alex Konat
Inked by Julie Salvatierra & Mark Roslan
Coloured by JUANCHOo
Lettered by Josh Reed
Miya and her warriors, with Cassidy in tow, managed to fight off the S.W.A.T. Team led by Maddix, but not before suffering a few scars of their own along the way. Following the battle, Taki realized a great weight was lifted off of his shoulders, as he could finally embrace the magic surrounding his life. However, in her subsequent attempt to revive the spirit of her long passed father, Miya discovered that her quest all of this time may actually have led to her ultimate demise…
Now that I’ve had a chance to read the final chapter of this arc I can appreciate a lot more what J.T.’s done here. Not only has this introduced us a group of new characters that inhabit the Soulfire Universe and showcased Miya but it’s perfect for both new and longtime fans alike. I’ve been a fan of J.T.’s for some time now but this arc really demonstrates why I gravitate to what he writes. There are so many layers to this story that emerge in this issue that surprise the reader and set the stage for future stories. It is such good, strong solid stuff that it’s a pleasure to read.
Then wrap that up in the interior artwork and wow. The Soulfire Universe has always had exceptional artists and colourists on their books that’s a given after all with the subject matter you really need that to shine through in the Turner fashion. I think Alex is an amazing artist, who one day I hope I will be able to something done by him, and JUANCHOo has proven to be a very inspired colourist. The hair, the wings the focus on magic and that sparkly stuff or even the darkness we see in the resurrected dragon it all combines to envelope the reader in this mystical, fantastical and awe inspiring world.
I’m fascinated by what Miya thought was going to happen and singular focus allowed her to be mislead and manipulated. Evani’s mission to do what she did and set up things for the next arc were handled beautifully and make her someone to be feared and respected. She kind of reminds me of a version of Mata Hari, beautiful-deadly and smart, in a sense and that really appeals to me. Cass and Lily’s friendship only strengthens here and when Evani sees the kind of power Cass possess it’s obvious why she’s been spotlighted since the beginning, not only to showcase how anyone’s life can change but because she has a larger destiny or just a big role to play in upcoming events.
There are a few things about the ending of this issue that really struck me. The conversation between Cass and Miya was phenomenal and for such a teenage girl who for the most has been lost and now found a inner strength that was a defining moment for me. Then with Cass and Lily and the showcase of the aftermath of what happened yeah that also was telling and interesting. Plus what we see with Evani and that reveal well yeah it leaves me excited for what’s next.
The next wave of Aspen comics is here and it’s in good hands and it’s got solid and powerful storytelling to keep it alive.