How The Story Carries on in The Marked #6
The Marked #6 starts a whole new plot arc in this series of magic and deception. Still reeling from the loss of their comrades, the surviving Marked begin a discussion – of the past. It is not the story you might expect to hear, either.
This is a world in which secret societies and magic exist together. After all, magic is too dangerous to be spoken about openly. With their tattoos (glyphs), these characters can do anything you imagine magic might be capable of.
The latest arc in this series already proves there is so much more to this world. We’ve already seen several hints of this fact, but now we know for certain. Even the history of the individual characters is full of intricate moments and details.
Writing
The Marked #6 is very appropriately titled “Lovecraft in the Underworld,” it is simultaneously everything and nothing like what that title may leave you inclined to expect. It’s thrilling and dark (as any tale involving Lovecraft is wont to do).
This issue was written by David Hine and Brian Haberlin and is full of complex character backstories. It takes twists and turns that I could never have predicted, turning an iconic historical figure into something that fits this surprising tale.
The issue also gives a few moments to wrap up the previous plot arc while setting up for more. It’s hard to predict how everything will go from here, especially when we’ve only been provided glimpses of how the deeper parts of magic work.
It’ll be interesting to see how the multiple threads of this plot continue and where it will lead its readers. One thing I do know: it’s certain to get dark, as this issue has already proven (and then some!).
Art
The artwork to be found within The Marked #6 is stunning. Elegant designs support haunting scenes, creating something larger than life. It’s appropriate, given that the magic itself is larger than life.
There are scenes within this issue that are out of this world (literally), showing the creative minds of the artists working behind the scenes. On that note, Brian Haberlin also provided the lines so you can see how the ideas and imagery mesh so neatly.
Geirrod van Dyke is the artist responsible for the colors, which are everything that the artwork calls for. They’re lush and vibrant while not afraid to dive into darker hues when the scene calls for it. It’s just the right balance.
Finally, Francis Takenaga was responsible for the lettering, and it was perfect. We’re talking about a level of subtlety that perfectly supported the artwork and narrative.
Conclusion
The Marked #6 proves there’s so much more to this series than one plot arc, but good luck predicting what will happen next. This latest arc is dark and foreboding while setting the scene for something more to come along in the future.
I enjoyed the twist on Lovecraft – his literature and his portrayal. It’s clever and opened the door for something new, and I cannot wait to see more of it. Though I can see why some fans might be less than thrilled, I’m sure the discussions about this one will be interesting.
This review was originally written for Word of the Nerd, but has been ported over to Quirky Cat’s Fat Stacks now that the site has shut down.
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