BLOOD & THUNDER #9 (skybound entertainment/image comics)

At last, the confrontation with Mallory and his men is about to begin. While Akeldama and the natives gear up for battle, Mallory unveils an unexpected tactic. However, the tide may turn, as an unforeseen secret weapon enters the fray, catching everyone off guard.

Blood & Thunder #8 - Written By Benito Cereno – Art By E.J. Su - Colors By Msassyk – Letters By Rus Wooton - Created By Robert Kirkman, Benito Cereno, and E.J. Su - Edited By Nachie - Published By Skybound Entertainment/Image Comics

Credit: Skybound Entertainment/Image Comics

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

STORY OVERVIEW:

The battlefield is set, on one side Mallory’s army, and on the other the Natives led by Akeldama. As the battle begins, it’s an instant blood bath. Both sides take losses, but as the field thins out Akeldama realizes that Mallory is nowhere to be found. We discover that Mallory and a small crew have gone to the shack where Oola has been hiding out. Neither Oola nor Thunder realize the threat that is waiting for them outside. Meanwhile, just as it looks like Akeldama and the Natives may be in trouble, the Prisoner ends up dropping in on the battle. Now the unlikely alliance between Akeldama and the Prisoner is ready to destroy Mallory and his men.

WRITING:

This issue appears to put a button on this miniseries that has been taking place over the past few issues. Benito Cereno does an amazing job of giving the reader a satisfactory finale to this side mission. The action and violence are turned up, while the consequences and revelations leave the reader very satisfied. The addition of the Prisoner and his brief alliance with Akeldama is the definition of the enemy of my enemy is my friend. This comes complete with the promise from Akeldama to capture him later. Was this cameo necessary, no, but it was really cool and was a great conduit for a bloodier conclusion.

ARTWORK:

One of the most consistent strengths of the Blood & Thunder series is its exceptional artwork. E.J. Su continually surpasses expectations through his detailed and imaginative visuals. With each new issue, Su unveils beautifully designed worlds that captivate readers and introduce a cast of amazing, unique characters. His artistic contributions stand out as the highlight of the series, and this issue is no exception. The action and violence in this issue really shows through the art and gives the reader a true front row seat for the action.

Complementing Su’s illustrations, Msassyk delivers equally impressive coloring work. The color palettes are thoughtfully chosen to perfectly match the tone and style of the artwork. This careful approach to color draws the reader’s eye to each panel, enhancing the overall impact and emotional resonance of the story.

Check out my review of blood & thunder #8

Final Thoughts:

Blood & Thunder #9 is a great conclusion to a side mission that at times felt like a head scratcher. However, this finale was done very well and with some really cool and meaningful acts that will surely play out later in the series. The artwork has always been the strong suit in this series, but the story really shines in this issue as well. As we will more than likely be on our way to a new planet next issue, it is an exciting time to jump into this series.

FINAL GRADE: 9/10

Let me know your thoughts on Blood & Thunder #9 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!