Elizabeth grows in influence as advisor to Queen Elanor. With the title of lady and an attendant, Elizabeth elevated her rank since besting the wizard’s apprentice and healing the king’s daughter. Next, Ferenc falls to her sway as the knight defies his code to enjoy the enchantress’ seductions. Another knight, Jon Hunter, takes note of the happenings in the court. He sends Elizabeth on an errand to investigate crop blight with unusual originations.

The issue ends with Elder Winifred paying a visit and transforming to a youthful guise to do some investigating of her own.

With Elizabeth gaining influence, readers see the genesis of her rise to power. She’s a smart character that invades the king’s court and asserts her presence through reserved actions. Yet the dark secrets and powers she carries as implied through this and last issues’ demonstration of magic show that the young woman will soon lead a bloody coup to claim the throne.

While the writing works well, the pacing shows some slowing. If readers are to stay with Elizabeth’s story, they will need some significant act that foreshadows what is to come. Subtle hints are fine for a short while, but the comic book medium needs a faster, more obvious progression. Also, Elizabeth needs some stumbling block or flaw in her character. As of right now, she has been making all the proper steps. Such perfection makes her a bit too one-dimensional.

Fritz Casas captures the fantasy/medieval setting quite well. I additionally enjoyed his portrayal of the magical spell taking form in the air around Elizabeth as she weaved her incantation. Unfortunately, the depiction of her orgasm while bedding down Sir Ferenc looked more like a singer caught mid-note belting out a Michael Bolton ballad.

Score: 3/5

Writer: Troy Brownfield Artist: Fritz Casas Publisher: Dynamite Entertainment Price: $3.99 Release Date: 7/9/14 Format: Ongoing, Print/Digital