W.i.t.c.h. (Peruvian Comic Series)

W.I.T.C.H. (an acronym for "Warrior Initiated to the Call of the Healer") was a Peruvian comic book series that ran from 1985 to 1993, created by writer and artist Alejandro Rivas. Set in an fantastical version of the ancient Inca Empire, the series followed a group of five young female protagonists with powerful magical abilities who defended their civilization from supernatural threats and the encroachment of colonial forces.

Origins and Setting

Rivas conceived of W.I.T.C.H. as part of a wave of science fiction and fantasy comics emerging from Latin America in the 1980s, which often incorporated elements of indigenous mythology and history. The series was set in the fictional Inca city-state of Cuzco, portrayed as a technologically advanced but spiritually oriented civilization deeply connected to the natural world through mystical powers.

The Inca Empire in this version of history had never fallen to the Spanish Conquest, and maintained its independence and unique culture, albeit while facing constant pressures from expanding European colonial powers. This provided a rich backdrop for the series' exploration of themes like indigenous resistance, the clash of science and magic, and the legacy of imperialism.

Main Characters and Powers

The core of the W.I.T.C.H. team consisted of five young Inca women from diverse backgrounds:

• Wayra, the team's fierce warrior wielding wind-based magic
• Killa, a healer and empath with powers over water
• Inti, a brilliant scientist and inventor harnessing fire and electricity
• Mama Quilla, the spiritual leader of the group, controlling earth and plants
• Illapa, a mysterious shaman and illusionist with mastery over lightning

Together, these five "Warrior Maidens" used their elemental powers, advanced technology, and mystical knowledge to protect Cuzco from supernatural forces like ancient demons, vengeful spirits, and the machinations of colonial occupiers.

Storylines and Themes

W.I.T.C.H.'s narratives were known for their complexity and maturity, tackling weighty issues like the legacy of colonialism, the clash of tradition and modernity, and the corrupting influence of power. Many stories involved the team having to navigate political intrigues, defend their people from invaders, and confront the moral ambiguities of wielding great magical abilities.

One of the series' most acclaimed story arcs, "The Inca Apocalypse", depicted the Warrior Maidens struggling to stop a centuries-old Inca sorcerer from summoning an ancient evil that threatened to destroy all of Cuzco. The climactic battle saw the team make wrenching sacrifices, leading to an ambiguous conclusion that left readers speculating about the fate of the characters.

Popularity and Influence

W.I.T.C.H. developed a dedicated following across Latin America, particularly in the Andes region, where its fusion of indigenous mythology, science fiction, and feminist themes resonated with readers. The comic's visually striking artwork and complex narratives helped it stand out in a crowded market of superhero and adventure stories.

While the series never achieved the same level of international popularity as contemporaneous North American or Japanese comics, it did gain a cult following among fans of speculative fiction and world-building. Rivas' depiction of a powerful, technologically advanced Inca civilization was seen as groundbreaking, inspiring later Latina/o creators to explore similar fantastical interpretations of pre-Columbian history and culture.

Untimely End

The W.I.T.C.H. series came to an abrupt and unsatisfying end in 1993 following the unexpected death of creator Alejandro Rivas. With the overarching narrative left unresolved, many readers were left frustrated and curious about the ultimate fate of the Warrior Maidens.

Rivas' passing deprived the comic of its guiding creative vision, and attempts by other writers and artists to continue the series were met with limited success. The series' unfinished state, combined with its limited international exposure, has contributed to W.I.T.C.H. remaining a cult favorite among fans of Latin American speculative fiction rather than gaining the widespread recognition it may have achieved had Rivas lived to complete his ambitious storyline.