Excalibur #26
Rob Stryczek
Recap
Merlyn and King Arthur have taken the Starlight Citadel. Saturnyne still lives-but not for long. Betsy Braddock must decide once and for all where her loyalties lie. It's all been building to this - the fantasy ends here and reality rushes in. There is no haven for the witchbreed. Can they hold on to their champion, here at the twilight of an age?
Review
In this finale Howard shows the growth members have faced throughout the series. Meggan and Jubilee as they worked through the challenges of motherhood in Otherworld, and Rictor who has found his potential and the return of his love. It’s incredible that no matter what Betsy continues to be the best leader that she can be even when Britain or Otherworld looks down on her. I admire Howard’s clear love and understanding for Betsy and the complicated world around her.
Excalibur itself has truly had a special artistic duo. Over the course of this series and especially in this climactic final issue I always found myself really looking forward to the huge talent of To and Arciniega. From the panel of Rachel’s tender moment with Betsy to seeing our Captain Britain charging into the unknown I’m truly taken away by this talented team. I absolutely have adored the journey of this beautiful storyline with their artwork. I’ll also add that through this phenomenal art we got to see incredible lettering done by Maher.
My favorite panel is the page of the whole cast as they are in battle. It immediately shows their growth and the confidence they have built in fighting alongside each other. In the end, Rachel corrects Xavier in announcing how Betsy is a hero fighting for people who hate and fear her. This ending shows the endless bravery that Betsy has shown throughout her superhero career.
Final Thoughts
For the sneak peak of Knights of X I do hope that we get to see the creative team be able to build on Betsy and Rachel’s relationship. There is a lot of potential for the dynamic to continue to flourish in future stories. This creative team did a good job finishing up some plot threads while also leaving fans for a taste of what is to come.
Excalibur #26 The Ultimate Sacrifice
- Writing - 8/108/10
- Storyline - 8/108/10
- Art - 9/109/10
- Color - 9/109/10
- Cover Art - 9/109/10
