Troop #2 continues with the teens recruited by Edward questioning his motives and trying to discover what he’s been keeping from them. Numerous teens are being hunted besides the ones Edward has already found but somehow he tends to know their whereabouts just like those hunting them. Meanwhile, these teens are having their lives turn upside down and aside from the powers they possess they don’t know why they’re being hunted.

Such is the case with Torrance Jane-Willis, who now has the ability to completely turn into liquid, and how she was going to college when everything changed for her. She wasn’t very popular in college but had a close friend named Cynthia who she could rely on. Not only did she lose her friend to an apparent suicide but her powers were activated in a terrifying situation making it impossible for her to return to her former life. There are others out there like her but why is Edward collecting them? What does he seek to gain?

The initial story about Torrance and how she gained her powers was indicative of the tone of this series. It was in-depth character building with a mature tone, interesting and dark twists, and creative use of one’s abilities. This was a captivating story even though this was her first time being introduced. A fully realized character in just a matter of pages and a clear representation of the world this series exists in. And it gave a human touch to the situations others like her face despite their awesome powers. And just like last issue I loved J. Cassara’s artwork during this sequence.

To remain spoiler-free, I won’t give away the remaining events that unfolded this issue. Characters being brought together would’ve felt rushed if it wasn’t tied to the biggest twist so far. And considering the spectacular action that involved the Troop combating more than just generic soldiers, I didn’t have a problem with this. The villain was pretty badass. And it made me excited for the potential action sequences going forward, which of course means I hope they would have a clear context as well.

SUMMARY

The Troop #2 is an intense issue that is successful at both provocative character development and intriguing story progression. The way Torrance’s life and transformation is laid out confirms the tone of the series in a good way. This issue doesn’t clarify Edward’s true motives in collecting all these powered individuals but addresses it in an entertaining way with a surprising twist that has me looking forward to next issue. And the action is electrifying again and the new characters this issue make a strong impression with their abilities. I don’t know if all the comparisons to other series was necessary but I do know that The Troop is definitely making a name for itself.