the Warlord #16 - DC

I'm worried. I'm worried that this may be the final issue of the Warlord. It doesn't say so . . as such. And the story kind of leaves things hanging a bit at the end. But . . there's no other issues listed in the previews, at least through November. And, books have taken breaks before, so . . hopefully that's all this is. I know there's an upcoming storyline in the DC Universe that involves Skartaris, so . . hopefully that's all this is . . a hiatus until that storyline works it's way out. The landscape of Skartaris has definitely changed over the course of this incarnation. And I'd imagine that with this alien invasion imminent, we haven't seen the last of the changes. So hopefully this will pick up after the new ground-work has been set. But right now . . I really don't know. What happens this issue? Well, Skartaris has prepared itself for war. It know that the alien will definitely attack, it's just a question of where and when. Also, McBane has made contact with the 'outer-world', with the use of Travis' radio in his SR-71. He's also sent the video that he's made since arriving here. Apparently he just wants to let the world know that they're down here. Because shortly after that, they seal the polar opening to Skartaris. There's also something to do with the magic realm as Travis' daughter, Jennifer, and his other daughter Morgana have used their magic to not only open the portal between Skartaris and the magic realm, but also to stop and destroy Deimos in the process. At least they think they destroyed him.That guy is like a cockroach. So, as I've said . . Mike Grell has left an awful lot hanging here. I can't believe that they'd just let it go like this, but . . maybe they just have to work out that other storyline first. Anyways, I hope it's not the end. I really do. I love Mike's work, and I love this character. But now, I guess . . it's just a waiting game. We'll have to see what the powers that be decide to do. Hopefully it's the right choice.

the Warlord #15 - DC

Well . . this series has the whole 'sword & sorcery' thing in spades. But now . . now we seem to be going off in a bit of a science-fiction direction. Last issue Skartaris experienced the 'torched earth', when something seemed to come through the opening from the outer world and crash landed, literally, in their backyard. Upon investigation, what they thought was a dragon, turned out to be an extraterrestrial that upon landing has activated a message back to his home. In thier brief encounter, it also says something to Morgan . . er, sorry . . Tinder, that baffles him. It said . .'We expected you to be more civilized . . more useful.' Whatever that means. Were we put here to be their future slaves? Anyways, scientists on the outside of the Earth . . our side of the Earth, have witnessed the signal and are tracking it. It appears to be a message to the Orion cluster. It originates on four spots on Earth, and all are directed at those stars. We also find out that with their interpretation of the Mayan calendar . . it still ends on Dec 21st, 2012. But it then has the annotation . . 'They return'. And finally, after decoding the signal, it seems to be a message relaying some coordinates. 'These particular coordinates pinpoint a location north of Green Bay, Wisconsin . . halfway between the North Pole and the Equator . . roughly 800 miles below the Earth's surface.' However, they view the whole 'inner-Earth' thing as . . well, a world within a world. Literally . . a ball floating within a ball. While we know that it's more like a hallow ball. With Skartaris located on the inside of the outer layer. The atomic engine at the Earth's core being the sun for this inside world. Needless to say we get a whole lot of information about UFOs, the theory's of how interstellar travelers affected the knowledge of the Earth's inhabitants as well as other related stuff. Meanwhile, in Skartaris, time seems to have taken another leap forward. Tinder meets his new sister, Morgana. Now about 6 months old. And his half sister Jennifer informs him that Morgana is a being of pure magic. 'She is magic. Magic in it's purest form . . untouched . . unchanged. Magic like this hasn't existed in the world since the beginning.' Tinder also has a little adventure where he gains a new pet . . a Hippogryph. Basically, a flying horse. But as they're flying back towards Skartaris, they see the area where the alien landed. From the air they can see lines like those in Nazca. From the air they look like air strips. And he and Alysha come to the conclusion that it's preparing for an invasion. Which means . . it's time to get out the big guns . . literally. He gets his father's pistol out of a box and asks McBane to show him how to use it. I don't know yet that I buy this whole Tinder/Joshua thing as the new Warlord. He just doesn't have the same intensity as his father. He seems so much more naive, and innocent. But I guess experience comes with time. Right? But with this storyline he seems to be facing something not even his father faced. I guess his true test of character will be when we see how he comes through all of this. Mike Grell is doing a terrific job. He does the art as well as the story this issue. It's a sight to behold. The new direction is . . interesting. We'll just wait and see how far it goes . . if it gets to far-fetched. But I have to give it the benefit of the doubt. It is Mike's work, afterall.

the Warlord #14 - DC

Well . . no sooner does Joshua take on the mantle of his father than . . he's thrown right into battle. And it could be that the entirety of Skartaris rests in his hands. Not too much to throw at a young pup on his first trip out. Anyways, there's reports of a dragon in the outer lands that is terrorizing the people. Joshua and company arrive just in time to find that they're even offering it sacrifices to try to stay it's hand. Anyways, Joshua decides to face it head on, but soon runs away with his tail between his legs. Well, actually . . it's his hand. During the heat of battle the fiery breath of the dragon nearly burns his hand to cinder. But there's a couple of things at play here. First of all . . when this happens with Joshua, Tara's baby begins to . . well, er . . act up. Jennifer quickly comes to her side, but she finds out that Tara's little baby girl is full of power. And she seems to be sensing her brother's distress. Later we see that the baby is using her powers to help him heal. Secondly, after having a special sword forged from the metallic meteorite, as well as a gauntlet and shield, Joshua and company have to once again go and face the creature as one of the townspeople have offered Alysha as a sacrifice, after there's was interrupted. So now, even though they're not ready, they have to go and try to save Alysha. I don't know if they come if from a different entrance this time, or what, but . . when they enter the cave they can tell that this is actually a ship. And when they get a better look at the dragon, they find out that it's actually an alien. With some kind of laser device mounted to it's forehead. Joshua ends up seriously hurting it, but before it dies it sends off a message to Orion. And he talks about these people being some kid of accidental experiment. It seems to have originated from something they left here eons ago. Anyways, it seems that Mike Grell is mixing a little science fiction in with his usual sword and sorcery here. We've seen Skartaris affected before by the outside world. But I don't know that they've ever been affected by something from outside the universe. It'll be interesting to see how this all comes out, and if it has anything to do with the recent revelation of Shamballah being part of the city of Atlantis. And if that's so . . I'm surprised that we haven't seen Orion here before. The mage . . not the constellation. I thought it was an interesting book. It's a little hard to tell right now though because this is just the opening salvo of this story-arc. But I am excited to see that the book is still going strong. Chad Hardin and Wayne Faucher are doing the art now. It's . . ok. It's going to be hard to hold a candle to Mike's work. But . . change is ok. You just have to accept it.

the Warlord #13 - DC

Well . . this is the first issue in the adventures of the new Warlord . . Travis' son, Tinder. Well . . that's the name he took before he knew who he was. He was named . . Joshua. And he assumes the mantel just as everything is about to change in Skartaris. A meteor approaches Earth and everyone in the tracking station is ready for a serious impact at the north pole. But then . . nothing. Apparently it shot right through the hole into Skartaris. But there . . it has a devastating effect. Including a new monster that has appeared in the outer lands. So far we're unclear on it's origins. I'm not sure if it was a passenger on the meteor, or . . maybe it was buried and the impact released it. Either way it's now causing panic and mayhem in the outer lands, and apparently is being appeased by offering it human sacrifices. Warlord and company arrive just in time to stop another sacrifice, but . . that appears to be the least of their problems. The monster is loose. And it's pissed. But because of the devastating ray coming out of it's forehead, we don't really get a good look at it. For that . . I guess we'll have to wait until next issue. I enjoy Mike Grell's stories. I think he's a fantastic writer. That's why I also buy John Sable, and recently picked up the Pilgrim. But unfortunately he doesn't draw this issue. I only say that because I love his art as well. But if he can only do one or the other, I'd much prefer he stay on with the scripting of this series. His vision for this character is so inspired that I don't think that anyone else could fill his shoes. At least not on this book. Anyways, Chad Hardin does the art for this issue, and . . it's ok. Some parts were better than others, but . . overall I thought it had a good feel to it. This has long been one of my favorite series, and I'm just glad that it's been opened up to a whole new audience. Hopefully they'll respond in kind.

the Warlord #12 - DC

If you're reading this book, but haven't picked up this particular issue yet . . spoiler alert! Don't continue on with this post. Go out . . get the book and read it, and then come back. This is a great issue with some startling developments that you'll definitely want to read for yourself. If you don't follow it . . then you don't really care, so . . please continue. The only problem with this issue . . and this story, is that any long-time readers or followers . . such as myself, are probably going to be pissed or aggravated. I'm just glad that Mike Grell wrote and drew it because if anyone else had . . they'd have been accused of trying to destroy the character. Anyways, over the course of the last few issues we've seen that Kate has brought Deimos back to life. Basically, she wants to kill Travis Morgan and take over Skartaris. To that end, they immediately draw him out of Shamballah and go there themselves to take over and destroy the city. Kate had seen the code-books for the Atlantean arsenal that had been hidden within the city's structure. Once in control of that, it was pretty easy to take care of everything else. The important thing to note here is that thousands of the city's residents are killed here. Except for Travis' supporting cast. None of them seem to have been affected. Although Kate and Deimos do have Alysha and Tara prisoner. Anyways, through all of this we find out that Tinder is actually Travis' son, Joshua. Travis thought that he had killed him when Deimos magically aged him. But we find out this issue that it was actually a clone. The real Joshua had been taken away from Deimos, and by the time he discovered it . . it was to late to find him. So Travis and Tinder are in this heated battle because Tinder is mad that Travis took off and didn't stay to protect the city. I think Tinder sees it as a way to get out his frustration and anger over all the loss he's had to face, while Travis approaches it as a way to teach Tinder a lesson . . a lesson about fighting and channeling anger. However, Alysha interrupts them to tell Tinder what she's learned. In the shock, I think . . they both let their guard down. Tinder follows through with a thrust of his sword, and Travis doesn't block because of the realization that's just flashed across his brain. The deed is done, and Tinder accidentally impales his own father. And yes, before you ask . . Travis Morgan is indeed dead. However, the Warlord does show up and fights Deimos, banishing him back into the crystal. It's just not Travis Morgan, the Warlord. It's Joshua, the Warlord. He's put on his father's battle gear and has assumed his mantle. 'The king is dead . . Long live the king.' Now . . while I think this is an interesting development . . I do have my reservations. Mainly that I love this character. I think Travis Morgan is great. Tinder/Joshua may rise to the occasion, but . . it's going to be different. Which isn't always bad. But . . on this book, I have to see the proof first . . before I'll believe it. I think this was an awful daring move by Mike Grell. I really hope it pays off for him, because I'd like to see this book continue. But . . we'll have to wait and see. And remember . . he still does have an out. If the Atlantean technology is around that brought Deimos back, it's conceivable that it could also later be used to bring back Travis. Right? I mean . . I don't like to see the easy way taken out of a situation, but . . it is possible. Theoretically. Anyways, the future of this book is all up in the air now. And I love it! The next issue is titled . . 'Son-rise!'

the Warlord #11 - DC

Well . . Deimos is officially back. Last issue Kate used some kind of Atlantean technology to bring him back to life, and then this Mask of Life to restore his memories and emotions. Morgan is talking to Ewan . . remember, he's doing this video journal, or history of Skartaris while he's stuck down here . . and while they're talking Deimos sends a dragon of some sort to attack Jennifer. It's pretty clear to everyone involved that it's Deimos' calling card. And Morgan is quick to jump to arms. 'I had forgotten what life was like when he was around. I confess it's been occasionally dull without a real adversary. A Warlord without a was . . but no more.' Obviously it's a trap, but Morgan and Machiste, Shakira and Tara are all quick to follow him into battle. As well as Ewan who wants to record it all for posterity. However, Morgan and company is expecting a trap, but actually . . it's a diversion. When the get to Deimos' castle they find it deserted. Well . . except for some kind of groundskeeper or something. He says that Deimos and Kate have taken off in the direction of Shamballah. It turns out that rather than attack Morgan directly, Deimos has decided to start with the things that are important to him. They attack Shamballah with a dragon, but . . that too is a distraction. While everyone is out fighting it, Deimos and Kate have snuck into the city and are following the plans of some ancient Atlantean texts. It seems that this is not just a city, but a garrison. They've activated the weapons and turned them on the city itself. I have a feeling by the time Morgan returns, Shamballah will be pretty much destroyed. Mike Grell does both the story and the art this issue, and . . it couldn't look better. I still have to profess that I love this book. Maybe it's the nostalgia. Maybe it's because it's different than most of the other stuff I read. But I love Mike's work, and I think this is one of his best creations. The only problem right now? For Morgan . . I think things are going to get a lot worse before they get better. But that's when this book is the best. I can't wait.

the Warlord #10 - DC

There's some plus' and minus' to this book. But . . to me, the negative parts weren't really all that bad. For instance, Chad Hardin does most of the art for this issue, instead of Mike Grell. Mike does do a couple of pages though . . and the cover. But, first of all, Chad's stuff looks pretty good. He definitely has a different style than Mike, but . . he still kind of gives the book a similar feel. And, as I've said in previous blogs, the trouble with the first series, I felt, occurred when Mike gave up the reigns on the story. As long as he remains the writer, I don't care who does the art . . well, that's not true, certain styles wouldn't fit . . but, if he stays at the helm of the book it'll stay on track and true to his vision. Anyways, this issue was mostly about Deimos. Or . . a clone of him. After Travis and company defeated Ned Hawkins' attempted takeover of Skartaris, Kate Archer stuck around to see if she might be able to do something with all of this Atlantean hardware and tech. Now that she's had a taste of power and adventure, I don't think she's ready to give it up. Plus, she's the one that figured out that Deimos' words were written on top of the pages of Atlantean binary-code. Which she can work with . . so she probably figures that she's the best person to bring all of this, the city and it's wonders, back to life. In that sense she's kind of like Mariah and Jennifer, in that she's starting to blur the lines between magic and science. She finds some cloning chambers of the Atlanteans, and a device that was used to capture the memories of the dying person so that they can be transferred to the new body. That's how she brought Deimos back. The problem is . . reawakening those memories. She fights with it all issue, until at the end, out of frustration, she swings her sword slashing across Deimos face. This gives him the trademark scar that he had, and the magics are reawakened. Meanwhile, Ewan McBane is continuing his photo journal of his time in Skartaris. Basically, he's interviewing everyone around Travis to try and figure out what makes him tick. Right now he's got him up on this pedestal . . he sees him as a hero, or saviour, but . . I'm wondering what's going to happen when he starts talking to people that aren't his closest confidants . . his extended family. Not everyone may be happy, or consider the progress of everything that the Warlord has done here. Afterall, this is the only place in history where 'the Warlord' has a positive connotation. It's mostly referred to despots and tyrants. I'm wondering if his little self-examination is going to end the way he expects it to. Anyways, I love this character, and series, and it looks like there's some exciting stuff planned for the future. Again, I find it amazing that it's 2010 and two of my favorite books are a western and a sword & sorcery title. Whodathunkit?

the Warlord #9 - DC

Another fantastic issue of Warlord . . written and drawn by Mike Grell. One comment I'd like to make . . Mike needs to put out a poster book. Or a hardback edition with full-page prints of all the covers. He draws a lot of good stuff in the interior of the book, but . . the covers are always exemplary. Over the years, he's done enough covers for this book that I would think he'd be able to fill a companion edition. What do you say? Show us all those gorgeous covers again. Anyways, this issue Travis and Shakira finally make it back to Shamballah. He doesn't remember his little adventure when he was shanghaied by the Atlantean gods. 'We followed Kate Archer and her brigands, trying to get up an ambush, but they turned the tables on us. After that, I don't remember anything until Shakira found me.' Anyways, Ewan McBane has decided to use his time here, and the extra batteries he has for his camcorder, to do a documentary type film on the Warlord, Travis Morgan. I think the process he's going through, and the people he's talking to, will help to serve the reader by explaining what's happened between the end of the last series, and this one. Also it'll probably help to explain to all the new readers just who all of these characters are . . and some of their history. The issue ends where we see Kate Archer trying to bring Deimos back to life. And hopefully we'll finally find out whatever happened to Travis' son, Joshua. I love this book. I always have. I'm a huge fan of Mike's, and was thrilled to death when I saw this book back on the schedule. There's only one thing I'd like to see this time around . . a little suggestion to Mike, if you will. Even if you can't keep up with the artistic schedule, at the very least never relinquish the scripting reigns. To me, that was the downfall of the last series. I don't mind seeing a fill-in penciller now and again. But the story and the character just isn't the same if Mike isn't doing the scripts. It's just a suggestion.

the Warlord #8 - DC

This issue, and last, seem to have been a fever dream on the part of Travis. Last issue it appeared that he was being seduced by an evil temptress. In reality . . it was one of the gods of Atlantis. I would assume, maybe . . the god of war. Anyways, this issue we get a whole lot of background on Travis and what led him to be here in Skartaris. It was a good storyline for someone who maybe wasn't as familiar with this character. This series kind of jumped right back in to things, so there may be some people that aren't up to speed . . exactly. Anyways, it seems that, maybe, the reason for Travis being here is wrapped around the desires of a fallen deity. It seems that she wants to rule Skartaris once again and Travis is her chosen warrior. But, as is often the way of the gods, to us mere mortals . . she seems mad with desire and lust. Not necessarily lust for Travis, but rather lust for power. When Travis and some of his fellow soldiers came upon this battered hall of heroes, one of them comments . . 'Make no mistake, thier temples and statues may have crumbled, but the old gods still have power as long as a single man still believes in them.' So is that her foothold into this world? Does Travis still believe that there may be a god of war? Anyways, in the end he awakens and he and Shakira move on the next adventure. This issue was brilliantly written and drawn by Mike Grell. He seems to be jumping back into the books with both feet as he's also writing another of his creations, Jon Sable Freelance, over at IDW Publishing. It was one of the First Comics franchises. He's been writing this book since it's relaunch, and right now he's scheduled to draw at least the next 2 issues. This has been a favorite of mine for quite a while. I was thrilled to see it back, and even more surprised when Mike took over the creative helm. The last time Mike was on this book was probably close to 20 years ago. I'll be interested to see if his perception of this character has changed any since then. This is a great book. My advice? Don't miss it.

the Warlord #7 - DC

I absolutely love this book. I was thrilled when it came back, and now . . with this issue, Mike Grell will also be doing the interior art for this story-arc. So far he's been putting out some incredible covers, but the interiors on this book look equally incredible. I love the way he spreads his panels across 2 pages to express the flow of action. And of course there's always that 2 page spread on the title page. It's freakin' awesome! Anyways, this issue Morgan has come across a damsel in distress. Literally! She's a vested virgin. There can't be to many of those around. Anyways, somehow, I think, she's connected to the gods of Skartaris. It appears that they've taken notice of Travis and have decided to muck about with him a bit. Unfortunately, he doesn't know that yet. It seems that they're also messing with his perceptions and memory. She brings him out of his trauma from the recent battle, and he doesn't even know his name. The issue ends with it's usual cliff-hanger . . Travis and the virgin are attacked by some of the man-beasts that dwell in the relic of the city that she lives in. Classic Warlord! I think it's great that a sword and sorcery book like this can find a market in today's comic industry. I love it! Also, next week, IDW is bringing back one of Mike's other creations . . Jon Sable. I know that this is a short blog, but don't let that reflect how much it looks like I like this book. I just don't want to go on and on about how much of a fan of Mike's I am, to the point where it sounds like I'm trying to sell the book rather than tell you what I thought about it. Personally, I think that anyone would find this title entertaining. But I know this isn't everybody's cup of tea. However, if you give it a shot . . I think you'll come to appreciate it. It really is a fantastic book.

the Warlord #6 - DC

I don't know how many of you out there read the original series of this, but . . it usually consisted of 1 to 3 issue story-arcs. They seemed to be self-contained stories, but in the overall scheme of things . . everything was connected. It seemed like everytime you got to where you forgot about some previous storyline . . something would happen to connect it all. It's what I like so much about Mike Grell's writing. This story, our re-immersion into the world of Skartaris has lasted 6 issues. However, just because the story-line has played out doesn't mean that there aren't parts of this story that won't come back later. Such as at the end . . Hawkins has been defeated, but he had gained the chest with the artifact in it. With now one else around to claim it, Kate picks it up. When she opens it, it seems to be some type of gas-mask, or something. I'm sure it's magical, because when she puts it near the skull with the rune symbols all over it there's a magical electricity in the air. And that's how the books ends. Morgan, Tara, Mariah, Shakira I'm sure have all but forgotten about her. However, I'm sure . . she'll be back. Also, what about Deimos' castle that Hawkins has now re-woken? Someone will want to step in and assume the power. Not to mention all the ancient armaments left lying around that I'm sure someone will figure out how to use. Didn't Kate have that book? The operations manual? Anyways, Chad Hardin has stepped in as the penciller of this 'new' series. His style is much different than that of Mike's, but . . I still like it. I think the point of it is to be different. This is a new beginning, afterall. From the previews, however . . it looks like Mike's going to do everything, pencils included, in some upcoming issues. That'll be awesome. So far he's turned in some amazing covers. Anyways, I'm thrilled that this book is back, and now that this first story-arc is over, we can find out what's going on now in Skartaris . . and how things have changed. It has been about 20 years since the first series ended. When this series ended, the books were at a $1 cover price. "Where have all the good times gone?"

the Warlord #5 - DC

Another great adventure of Travis an company in the lost world of Skartaris. Travis and McBride have gone through the portal, in the mountains, back into the 'real' world to get some armaments to better fight Ned Hawkins. While there, Travis learns that McBride was involved in the civil-war that went on in Belfast. But he doesn't learn which side he was on. Meanwhile, Tara and Jennifer are leading the Shamballan army to the Shadow-lands. And Tinder and Alysha are traveling the countryside trying to stir up some more recruits. Also, Shakira has been a little busy herself traipsing around Deimos' castle trying to get some intel on Ned, Dr Kate Archer and Mariah. All these forces come together as they begin to enter the Shadow-lands, but . . at the same time Ned has figured out how to get the Atlantean vessels working. He comes blasting out of the castle, and brings the mountain down on top of Tara and the army. Travis doesn't know if they've survived, or not. I like the way that Mike Grell writes these stories. I always have. Travis has a superb supporting cast, and Mike covers all the bases when writing about them. I think Chad Hardin is doing a great job with the art on these stories, but . . you gotta love those covers by Mike. From what I understand, there's an issue coming up in which he's also going to do the interior art. That'll be a treat. All I know is that if my cat could pull off a trick like Shakira . . I'd probably never leave the house. Or at least I'd feel better about working so hard to provide such a nice place for them to stay. Meeeoooww! All kidding aside . . I love this book. And I'm thrilled that it's back on the stands again. I just hope it lasts longer than the last try at this . . please!

the Warlord #4 - DC

Ok, to me, it seems like this guy, Ned Hawkins, that came to Skartaris in search of the dinosaurs . . when he arrived in Deimos' castle, he became obsessed. I'm thinking it may be more like 'posessed'. Maybe posessed by Deimos' fallen spirit. But if so, I don't think he really knows it. He seems to have his drive, and desire for conquest, but . . not his personality . . yet. Either that or he's just hiding the fact for some reason. So far we're not exactly sure of his motives, other than that he wants to take over all of Skartaris, and . . he's looking for something. He's given even more power this issue when we find out that Jennifer has been translating Deimos' hand-written texts, but discovers that the pages have been written on top of other pages . . pages of binary code. It appears that the books that he wrote all of his secrets and spells in were actually operating manuals for ancient Atlantean war gear. If he gets these in his possession, and operational . . he'll become near unstoppable. Tinder and Shakira finally show up in the castle to help release Travis and Machiste, but they find out that they've also turned Ned's personal videographer, Ewan McBane. He's been video-taping everything since their arrival, but Travis helps him realize that just because he isn't actively participating doesn't mean that he isn't abetting. We get a little bit of swordplay this issue. Our gang has to fight their way through some of Ned's forces, plus . . they come across one of Deimos' monsters that he left behind. At least, I think that's what it is. Finally, Morgan and Ewan decide that they have to go back through the portal to try to get some weapons and such to fight Ned. As they leave we see that Ned has a skull with some type of ruins painted on it. Is that what he was looking for? I'm thrilled that Mike Grell is back in the scripting seat of this title. I liked the little 10 issues we had a couple years ago by Bruce Jones and Bart Sears. But, I'm sorry, nobody can write this series like Mike. I wish he was drawing it also, but . . if not drawing it means that he'll be sticking around longer as the writer, then . . I don't even care. Besides, look at that awesome cover that he did. Joe Prado and Chad Hardin do the interior pencils this issue. Most of it looked ok, but near the end of the book some of it looked kind of weak. But we'll forget about that because I'm just glad this book is finally back.

the Warlord #3 - DC

We find out this issue that this plague that has befallen the Shadow Lands is actually the work of the group of people that Alysha Grant brought down here. She's the one that found the dinosaur skull in the cave in Tibet. The part that bewildered her though was that it was a fresh skull. So, she took it to a paleontologist, Kate Archer. From there they decided to launch an expedition. It consisted of Alysha and Kate with Ned Hawkins, who financed it and Ewan McBane as their photographer or historian. When they went into the mountains they were chased by Chinese soldiers. When they took refuge in a cave, they found a portal that transported them to Skartaris. Once in Skartaris though, they went their separate ways. Alysha saw this world as a place of myth and magic. A place where legends lived and people lived in peace. Ned however saw this as a world that was ripe for the conquering. So he quickly took power of the palace, with Kate by his side, and began broadening his reach. He wasn't going to be happy until he controlled this whole world. Ewan stood quietly by filming the whole thing. Anyways, somewhere along the line he captured Mariah and Machiste. Machiste escaped, or was traded out as slave labor, but Ned saw Mariah, Professor Romanova, as a source for knowledge. He found out that she had been here for years and he wanted all of the information that she had gathered in that time. By the end of this issue Morgan, Shakira and Machiste make their way to the overlord's palace, but their barely through the doors before their overpowered by his soldiers and his recently learned magic. Seeing her friends, and lover fallen, Mariah quickly agrees to assist Ned with whatever he wants. The issue ends with them all being taking into custody, and Shakira stealthily roaming around the castle. This series has jumped right back into the trials and tribulations that surround this land. And we've quickly been brought back up to date on all of the main characters. It seems to me, for Mike Grell, it's just like riding a bike. Chad Hardin does the art this issue. It's ok. It's not what I expected, but by the end of the book I believe his interpretation. I'm just glad that this book is back on the shelves again. And I'm thrilled that Mike Grell is at the helm. By the way, I love those covers.

the Warlord #2 - DC

First of all . . what an awesome Mike Grell cover. Right? I'm glad Mike's back to writing this series. The one that came out a couple of years ago was ok. The best part about it was Bart Sears art. But . . it just wasn't the same. They were trying to reinvent it. But . . it was perfect the first time. So . . there was no need. From the beginning of this series, it appears that they're ignoring those 10 issues. At least that's how it looks for now. But, in Skartaris anything is possible, so . . you never know if somewhere along the line they may decide to try to work it in. In this world . . never say never. This issue reintroduced us to a lot of Travis' rich past and stories. Just in case we'd forgotten . . or you're a new reader. We find out about Deimos . . the Warlord's primary nemesis. They think he might be behind the trouble in the Shadow Kingdom. But, he's dead. However . . he's been dead before. And it didn't stop him then. They also bring Tinder back. He's a Bard from the Queen's court. He seems to be brought back mostly to retell the stories, but . . I think this kid may have more in store for him. However, he does tell the story of how Travis met and fell in love with Tara. Also how he met his best friend Machiste. On their trek to the Shadow Kingdom, it's not long before they find some adventure when they come across a group of slave-raiders. They also see that Machiste is in one of their wagons. Travis and Tinder have a bit of an argument over the decision to save 1 over the many in the surrounding villages. But Travis compares it to the story when Deimos took his son Joshua and aged him to adulthood. He had to kill him in order to survive. So, he feels a debt to his friend and as he goes to free him, Tinder goes off to warn the settlers. Once free . . now they all follow Tinder. I think Joe Prado is doing an excellent job on the art in this series. Sure it would be nice to have Mike doing it, but . . I think Joe really gives this book a good feel. His stuff is similar to Mike's, in ways, but it's got a lot more detail. And obviously, since Mike's writing it, the story and frames flow the same. I'm really glad that this series is back, however . . in order to keep it coming we're really going to need to talk it up on the message boards. I love this series and I'd love for it to be here for the long run. But in order to do so . . we need to get other readers on board. The Warlord is back. Spread the word. And if possible, try to get others to give it a shot. They won't be disappointed.

the Warlord #1 - DC

It's finally here . . one of the first books I ever started collecting as a kid. Well, actually Superman and Batman were my first, but . . then I saw this amazing book on the rack that was nothing like the other 2. I just had to explore it and figure out what was going on. It's a shame that Mike Grell isn't drawing it as well as scripting, but . . at least we get this amazing cover. Plus, Joe Prado and Walden Wong do a pretty decent job on the interiors. Overall, I think this book has a pretty good feel to it. It's not the same as Mike's work, obviously, but . . that's ok. With this first issue, it seems like we're trying to bring the story up to date. There's this explorer, Alysha Grant, who has discovered some interesting stuff in a mountain cave in Tibet. She brings back a dinosaur fossil, but . . it still has skin attached. She gathers up a team, under the tutelage of Dr. Archer, an anthropologist at a museum, and they head back to try to discover more. However, this time they encounter some resistance from the Chinese army. They make it into the cave, and find a pyramid shaped portal that takes them . . I assume . . to Skartaris. We also catch up on Travis Morgan's story. It was 1969 when he was flying his SR-71 over Russia and was shot down. He parachuted out, and landed in Skartaris. Now, he and Tara, with Shakira and Jennifer by his side, are the monarch's of Shamballah. Currently they're getting an influx of wildlife and refugees from the Shadow Kingdom. This is also Machiste's land. My guess is, that's where this group of adventurers landed, and . . they seem to be making their presence known. Travis examines one of the boys and finds a bullet wound in his armor. I've always loved this series. It's interesting how this role has been thrust on Travis, since his arrival. He's constantly in turmoil as to whether to accept it, or try to live a quiet normal life. But nothing is ever quiet and normal in Skartaris. Eventually something happens that brings him right back into his role as protector. I'm sure Mike will also have to expand on the way time works here. Travis has been here for almost 40 years now, but he doesn't look a day older than when he landed. I remember the running joke through the first series was . . if he landed with just his pack and essentials, how come he never runs out of bullets? Anyways, I could go on and on, but . . I think I'll save some of my other feelings about this book for future posts. I wouldn't want to spill everything on the first issue now. Would I? Speaking of which, I included the cover of First Issue Special #8. That's the place where all of this began. I wonder, at the time, 1975, if Mike knew he was creating something so epic.

Warlord #10 - DC

First props to Phil Winslade for such an awesome cover. It really captures the look and the feel of the Warlord. Secondly, I want to say that I'm really disappointed, because this may very well be the last issue of the Warlord. Say it isn't so!!! Everybody should send messages to DC and tell them how much we love this series. We've all been waiting for years to finally get some new adventures from Travis and company, only to have it cut short after a mere 10 issues. Is there no justice? Is there no vision? Is there no one else out there reading my blogs or this series? I can't believe that. And I really felt that Bart Sears' style for this book, was adapting well. How can we stop this injustice? Warlord has been one of my favorite comics since it's inception. Granted I probably didn't start reading it until, somewhere between issues #20 to #30. But, I went back, got them all, and have been a fan ever since. Yes I'll always have the Mike Grell look in my head, but I thought that Bruce Jones and Bart Sears were doing quite nicely. Plus it was good just to see the Warlord back. So now I have no Mike Grell, and no Warlord. And on top of that, our story about Shamballah and Regine, Brovis, Alexa, Terry and Tara has been left undone. This issue was a story plucked out of the Warlords rich history, which is fine, but it wasn't an extension of the previous 9 issues. This was a stand alone issue. Please, I'm begging, don't let the Warlord drift into obscurity! Please!!!

Warlord #9 - DC

Another one of my all time favorite characters. And it appears that they're doing this one with a twist. First of all we have Bruce Jones and Bart Sears at the helm. I didn't know at first, but I'm starting to think that they are a dream team. The action and the pace of the story is accentuated by the flow and majesty of the art. I also wasn't sure about Bart's new style, at first, but it's flowing nicely with this book and story. Travis, er Lord Cassus, feels betrayed because his consort Regine has been falsely accused and murdered for something she didn't do. They thought Travis was dead, actually Tara did because she found him. But since Regine was also laying there on the beach, she framed her. When Travis, er Warlord, er Cassus came back from the dead, he found her dead and wanted immediate retribution. So he killed Tara and used her lifeforce to bring Regine back. Then he brought Shamballah back to it's previous glory. Now he's on a quest. He's out to find the Titans whom he feels betrayed him. He takes off just before Alexa, Terry and Brovis fly Travis' jet into the heart of Shamballah. So now he's out wandering the beautiful hills and forests of Skataris. This is where his adventures will really begin. Like I said, great job with the book. Riveting story, and beautiful art. Thanks for finally bringing him back.

Warlord #8 - DC

Only 8 issues into the series and the Warlord's dead? Now you know they aren't going to let that happen. But it looks like it. And if not Warlord, then Regine's dead. After the giant crab attacked them last issue it looks as if Travis and Regine are dead as they lay on the beach side by side with outstretched hands touching. But Tara doesn't like the looks of this, so she cuts Travis and leaves the bloody knive in Regine's hand. When the rest of the Royal Court arrive to claim the body of their fallen god, Regine is found to be still breathing. Tara orders her medical care so she can then be hanged. Meanwhile Terry, Alexa and Brovis are trying to sort their own situation out. Which really means that Brovis is trying to figure out the best way to take advantage of Terry's arrival, so that he can gain control of the Airplane and conquer all of Skataris. He's really laying it on think too. Anyways it looks like all is lost until Terry finally start up the plane, restoring power to Travis. He comes swooping in, but not in time to save Regine. In his rage he starts beating up on the Skartaran people, until one of them finally gives it up that it was Tara who was behind the duplicity. And that's how the issue ends, with Travis looking towards Tara like the hunter who's getting ready to disembowel Bambi. Bruce Jones, of course, does an awesome job with the script. And Bart Sears' new style is getting better and better. Both of their styles are coming together very smoothly for this series.

Warlord #7 - DC

The first page is a classic Warlord pose, in all his armament, addressing the people of Shamballah, with Princess Tara and Regine by his side. This is the way every Warlord book should open, with a full page, or double page, spread. Bart Sears' new style of art gets better and better every issue. I can see frames where he wants to slip back into his old style. But, he pulls away from it through the whole book. I'm very impressed. Alexa & Brovis are stuck on a very small island together. Brovis trys a little civility, but, then he trys to rape her. Terry however, now that he has the ship working, homes in on the tracking device in her medallion and arrrives in the nick of time. But, since the ship seems to be the instrument of Travis' power, did he just deliver the means to his destruction right in to Prince Bovis' hands? Terry seems adequately cautious of Brovis', but we'll have to wait to see where this part of the storyline goes. Meanwhile Travis', after just having liberated Shamballah from Brovis', delivers his victory and rebuilding speech to the people, and then enjoys the spoils with Tara and Regina. What a dog. But Regine has also found the diary of Travis', so she knows he's not really a god. And to drive the point home, Terry turns off the Jet almost at that same time, so Warlord converts back to Travis. They have a little touching moment on the beach, but then they are attacked by a giant sand crab. Travis ends up switching back to Warlord, but not in time to save Regine. It appears that she is dead. It appears that way. We'll have to wait till next issue to find out. I like the way the storylines are being handled so far. This is a series that shouldn't have a 1,2 or even 3 issue story-arc. Theses are stories that should carry us through at least 6,8 to 12 issues. And even then they aren't completely resolved. So far I feel that Bruce and Bart are living up to the Warlord tradition.