My Rating
“The Demon: Part 02”
Camelot was never the same after old King Arthur died. His court wizard, Merlin, disappeared one night and never returned. A handful of disciples attempted to carry on their master’s work, defending the realm against evil sorcery. Yet corruption and greed spread throughout the kingdom. Then the demons came. Jason Blood has battled those infernal forces ever since.
Now, in modern-day Gotham City, Merlin’s last pupil faces the forces of Morgaine le Fey and a troublesome companion within his own mind. The demon Etrigan has plenty to say, including his claim that his power surpasses even the Princes of Hell. That sounds promising. Of course, trusting a demon’s word might be a poor survival strategy.
With Hell’s forces gathering, Jason could certainly use a little help. But where are Batman and Gotham’s other costumed defenders? Will anyone stand beside the weary sorcerer, or has the fairy realm abandoned humanity to its fate? Collect the series to find out!
“Gangs Of Gotham (Preview)”
DC Comics offers a sneak peek at the new miniseries Gangs of Gotham. Several familiar faces return for what looks like a little criminal scheming and a whole lot of trouble. Everyone wants a piece of Gotham’s underworld, and playing fair probably isn’t on the agenda. Look out, Commissioner Gordon! For God’s sake, get the Bat-Signal ready!
Review
This issue is short and sweet. Jason Blood crosses paths with some migrating fairies who help him recover pieces of his forgotten past. A little assistance goes a long way when centuries of memories refuse to cooperate. Unfortunately, the Princes of Hell have grown restless, and Gotham finds itself in their sights. Enter Etrigan. Where will this take us? I have no idea, but I certainly want to find out.
The dark, unsettling atmosphere carries over from the first issue as James Harren continues building the story. Jason’s fractured memories give us a mystery alongside the supernatural trouble. However, I would have liked a little more room for those discoveries to unfold. Just as things begin to get interesting, we reach the end. Another month of waiting. Hell apparently has a schedule to keep.
I have never read the previous volumes of The Demon, so I’m still finding my footing with the deeper mythology. My fondness for Etrigan only gets me so far. A few more answers would help, but there is enough here to bring me back for issue three. I give this book a solid four out of five stars.
