This issue is the dramatic conclusion to the "Underground" series. It would be impossible to craft a more satisfactory end. Essentially, this story is very short (only five issues), but it has all of the components necessary to convey an intriguing tale. Wesley Fischer and Seth Ridge are still on the run, deep within the Stillwater Cave. The air is getting colder and the light is getting dimmer, and the lovers have to rely on each other more than ever before. Jeff Parker's dialog is magical, and one feels the physical and emotional tension between the protagonists as they strip their clothes and huddle by a fire made of bootlegger's gin and old rags.
Two high points worth mentioning: Wes and Seth have to do a "chimney" climb on a rock section too wide for them to do it by themselves, so they link arms back to back and have to walk up the cliff face. What an amazingly creative and imaginative scenario to place them in! Second, Seth tackles someone (no spoilers) through a waterfall and beats some serious a**.
Themes of loyalty, treachery, misunderstanding, and human nature permeate the text and create a context that is believable and visceral. With all of the "green" campaigns being conducted in our day and age, this comic is very politically and culturally relevant. Underground showcases both arguments 'for' and 'against' preservation, although I would argue that it does not portray each side in a fair light. The group that would commercialize and extort the Stillwater Cave for commercial gain are revealed as villains, while those that are fighting to preserve it are heroes.
Out of each of the "Underground" issues, this one was the most action packed and well paced. I was not disappointed in the least! (Well, maybe I was disappointed that this was the last issue). Seriously, if Jeff Parker can think up a reasonable premise, I would love to see an "Underground" series that doesn't conclude with five issues.
Chad de Lisle is a newly married college student in Utah. He spends much of his day with his wife Hilary and their dog Bobby Dylan. He spends his weekends as a Dungeon Master for his friend's Dungeon's and Dragon's games.
His website:
http://www.resmirch.com/
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