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THE CALLING saw Melaka appearing to accept her destiny as the Slayer, and READY, STEADY... sees her learning more about that destiny.

Urkonn fills in Melaka (and the reader) about how Slayers came into existence (including a brief appearance by the First Slayer) and how they died out. (The final Slayer could be Buffy.)

We also learn that the guy who set himself on fire in the first issue was a Watcher, and that the Council itself fell into ruin.

But this issue is more than just a lesson in Slayer history.

The various plot strands are pulled together, with the object that Mel grabbed for Gunther proving to be more than a simple trinket. Meanwhile, Icarus and his unseen master are starting to play a greater part in things.

Melaka herself continues to be a great character. Particular highlights include her training session with Urkonn and her relationship with Loo. You really have got to love "rocketmouth" Loo, and her stream of consciousness way of speaking. She gets plenty of great lines, and it's easy to see why Mel looks out for the kid.

As well as learning something about what happened to the Slayer line since the 21st century, we also discover a few things about Mel's background. We don't know what's happened to her brother, and she's not close to her sister Erin, although given their jobs, it's hardly surprising.

A strong story would be somewhat wasted if the artwork was rubbish, but fortunately that's not the case.

READY, STEADY... maintains the series' strong look. The artwork and colouring is great, and good use is made of varying sized panels. In addition, the different elements of the story - the present (well, future!), Urkonn's history lesson and Melaka's dream at the start - are all given separate looks.

A story that continues to hold the reader's attentions, some strong dialogue, interesting characters, and good artwork all add up to another winning installment. BACK TO THE TOP

FRAY
CHAPTER THREE: READY, STEADY...

Written by JOSS WHEDON

Penciller: KARL MOLINE

Inker: ANDY OWENS

Colorist: DAVE STEWART

Letterer: MICHELLE MADSEN


DARK HORSE COMICS


RATING: 9/10


NEXT ISSUE:
FRAY #4

PREVIOUS ISSUE:
THE CALLING