Ever wondered what would have happened if Barry Allen’s mother had lived? No, I’m not talking about FLASHPOINT. This is the Absolute Universe, and we are seeing everything in a new light. This issue shows us how Barry ended up at Fort Fox – and so much more. This excellent series keeps delivering amazing stories – wanna know more? Follow us after the jump!

SPOILERS AHEAD!

In this Universe, Barry’s mother is still alive, and Barry is teaching at Keystone University. You might think that’s a prestigious thing, but no. Barry used to be on the faculty at Princeton, but lost his funding and his job several years ago, just when he was on the verge of a big breakthrough. Barry hasn’t been in a lab since, content to teach at a smaller college until his class is audited by Eleanor Thawne. Her? Yes!

She offers him the funding to continue his work. They travel to Fort Fox, where Eleanor tells Barry about her grandfather’s work many years ago. That grandfather, of course, is named Eobard Thawne. Eobard was on the verge of what they are working with today. But, both Eobard and this universe’s Jay Garrick disappeared into the energy field (Jay not so voluntarily), and neither has been seen since.

Barry agrees to stay and continue Eobard’s work. We see Barry meet Wally for the first time, then cut to the successful completion of the energy field. It is now “Still Point” – a portal to another dimension. A group goes in, wearing the same uniform Wally will wear someday. They discover a lot of alien tech that they bring over to Fort Fox – that explains a lot of what we have seen earlier in this series.

There have been experiments on apes (including Grodd), and more tech is being brought over for the military to review (against Barry’s wishes). But one day, Barry is by himself when he hears the red energy of this portal calling his name. Literally calling his name, just has it had called Eobard many years ago. What happens next? You’ll have to read the issue yourself to find out.

SUMMARY:

This has been an outstanding series so far – and this issue is one of the very best! Script, pencils, inks, colors, and letters are all on point. I am enjoying this series SO much – and this issue is one great reason why. I’m giving this issue a 10/10 – of course, that’s just my opinion. What do YOU think? Leave your comments below!

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