Wraithborn #1–6 – A Dark Fantasy Awakening
🧬 Genre
Dark Fantasy, Supernatural, Action, Coming-of-Age
Wraithborn weaves mythological horror and mystical powers into a gritty urban fantasy setting, enriched with action-packed sequences and emotional growth arcs.
🌟 Main Characters
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Melanie Moore – A shy and ordinary high school girl whose life is upended when she inherits the powerful Wraithborn mantle, making her the unlikely protector of humanity.
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Valin – A seasoned and stoic warrior trained his entire life to become the next Wraithborn. After the power is passed to Melanie, he becomes her reluctant mentor and sometimes rival.
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The Immortals – Ancient, powerful beings who manipulate events behind the scenes, preying on humans and vying for control over the Wraithborn power.
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Kiara – A mysterious, enigmatic woman with unknown motives who plays a key role in the struggle between Melanie and the Immortals.
✍️ Writer
Joe Benitez
Best known for his work on Lady Mechanika, Benitez brings his trademark fusion of fantasy and intricate world-building to Wraithborn, co-creating a rich narrative of transformation and power.
🎨 Artist
Joe Benitez (Pencils)
Benitez’s artwork is detailed and cinematic, blending gothic and modern aesthetics to elevate the story’s mythological scope.
Joe Weems (Inks), Studio J-13 (Colors)
🛠️ Editor Details
Editor-in-Chief: Humberto Ramos
Assistant Editor: Ale Garza
Their editorial vision helps balance character development with mythos-heavy action, ensuring both pacing and clarity remain tight throughout the series.
🏢 Publisher and Brand
Publisher: WildStorm Productions
Brand: Cliffhanger Imprint
Originally released under DC Comics' WildStorm umbrella, Wraithborn was part of the Cliffhanger line known for creator-driven titles and innovative storytelling.
📅 Release Year
2005–2006
The six-issue limited series debuted during a golden era for creator-owned comics, standing out for its hybrid of supernatural lore and modern character drama.
🧩 Brief Plot Summary
Melanie Moore’s life is as ordinary as it gets—until the dying Wraithborn warrior transfers his mystical power to her by mistake. Meant for the battle-hardened Valin, the Wraithborn energy now resides in a girl who can barely defend herself. Thrust into a war she doesn’t understand, Melanie is hunted by Immortals and shadowy cults while grappling with terrifying visions and newfound strength. As her reality unravels, she must evolve from prey to predator—and ultimately embrace her destiny as Earth’s last line of defense against an ancient evil. 🌑⚔️
🔥 Notable Arcs or Storylines
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The Awakening – The central arc where Melanie undergoes a dramatic personal transformation, learning to confront fear, betrayal, and inner strength.
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The Unintended Heir – Valin’s internal conflict and resentment build as he watches the power he trained his whole life for in the hands of a novice.
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The Immortal Hunt – A suspenseful subplot involving the Immortals’ attempts to manipulate, capture, or kill Melanie before she can master the Wraithborn abilities.
🌀 Fan Theories or Interpretations
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Melanie's Selection Wasn't an Accident – Some fans theorize that the Wraithborn power chose Melanie due to a hidden lineage or untapped emotional power, suggesting a deeper mythological connection.
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Kiara as a Fallen Guardian – Several interpretations place Kiara as a former Wraithborn bearer who fell from grace, now trying to reclaim her lost destiny.
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Valin’s Future Turn – There’s ongoing speculation that Valin might become a dark mirror to Melanie—either corrupted or weaponized by the Immortals.
🧾 Review Summary
Wraithborn delivers a hauntingly elegant story with striking visual design and deeply personal stakes. Joe Benitez crafts a world brimming with ancient mysticism, while Melanie’s arc from meek teenager to empowered protector is genuinely compelling. The art dazzles with dramatic linework, emotive expressions, and richly colored environments. Though the series could benefit from deeper exposition in some areas, the pacing and world-building keep readers engaged throughout. For fans of dark fantasy and strong female protagonists, Wraithborn is a hidden gem worth discovering. 🌌🖤
Comic Resource / Read Online (External Source)
