by Victoria Irwin
Contributing Writer
Part two of “Welcome To the Team” begins mid-attack by grotesque creatures that Buffy Summers has less than affectionately nicknamed “zompires.” Buffy’s love interest rarely fair well in her universe, and Detective Dowling is no exception; he is attacked and bitten almost immediately. Her slayer-in-training, Billy, tries to hold his own during the attack, but is not very effective. Buffy has disappeared mid-fight, much to her obvious irritation, and met with a familiar face: Illyria from the Angel series. Illyria takes her to a council of some other familiar faces, including the demon D’Hoffryn, better known as being responsible for Anya’s transformation into a Vengeance Demon. Meanwhile, Xander and Dawn are attempting an existence that doesn’t daily involve “fighting for their lives.” Strangely, this still means things such as Dawn struggling to control a flu-like illness that appears to be less than natural amidst Xander’s restlessness from having nothing to fight.
Andrew Chamblis creates an elaborate storyline that fits into the post-television Buffy Universe. He successfully gathers a council of creatures we know and creatures we only wish we’d seen on past episode of Buffy. Chamblis keeps the humor element alive by including details like the existence of a “demon bar in Silverlake,” where human beings can interact with the demon of their strange erotic desires.
Georges Jeanty creates intricate scenes filled with many faces, demon or otherwise. Small details such as cereal boxes and photographs in the background are included. Several of the demons have incredibly detailed appendages, facial hair and even leaves. Dexter Vines is up to the challenge of inking it, which judging from the individual panels was no small feet. Michelle Madsen keeps it consistent with dark colors for the zompires and a sort of ethereal light for the council.
If you aren’t caught up on the series, I highly recommend reading the previous issues before hand. This is not a comic series for the comic fan who picks up random issues to read. The story line is intricate and will keep you entertained.
