A hefty and momentous chunk of Maximus backstory changes up the character and perhaps the Royals' current mission. Al Ewing does what he does best, diving deep into established continuity and giving things a major twist. Maximus and Black Bolt and their relationship are redefined here. It's excellent writing that's slightly undercut by a weak art team. Thony Silas hangs like grim death onto the sacred designs left to him by Jonboy Meyers; he doesn't have a lot of distinctive talent of his own to offer. In the flashback sequences, Will Robson injects a dissonant note of humor. At some points it's appropriate but it's definitely unwelcome at the finale.