Game Of Thrones is one of those shows and stories where the ebbs and flow of the momentum make for an interesting arc. Take, for instance, the arc of Sansa Stark. Once a meek character, but by show’s end, a fierce ruler whose loyalty to her people, made her formidable. There was one point where she was more hated than loved for her perceived weakness.

What made the story so magnetic is its unmistakable likeness to the flight of the human spirit. As everyone rooted for the Starks, when we saw how despite the misfortune that befell their house, they still rose. Who cannot champion those who are clear-minded and full-hearted? In the fifth issue of Aztec Empire, we find the Maya, at a crossroads, as some of them have surrendered while other factions look to fight.

We are taken to the Palace of Montecuhzoma, where the Council of Four is strategizing how to stop these usurpers and drive them from their land. The Great Speaker, Montecuhzoma II, ruminate with the advice of his generals, their next move, and treat these new strangers as a threat, one that he sees he must be more decisive, he must be accurate. We’re then taken to Potonchon, where the Spanish invaders start to impose the Christian religion and their ravaging of food supplies, one that pushes the natives to the brink. By issue’s end, Cortes looks to plunder Montecuhzoma’s land for gold, not knowing what unknown dangers lay ahead.

Overall, an engaging penultimate episode, one which will have reader rooting to defeat the invaders. The story by Paul Guinan is stirring and emotional. The art by Guinan and David Hahn is beautiful. Altogether, a story that leaves the reader beginning to comprehend the complexities and atrocities of colonization in all its repulsiveness.

Story: Paul Guinan Art: Paul Guinan and David Hahn
Story: 9.0 Art: 9.0 Overall: 9.0 Recommendation: Buy