Image Comic reviews 8/16/23 – Void Rivals #3, The Magic Order Vol. 4 #6

The Magic Order Vol. 4 #6

Mark Millar has never cheated Magic Order readers. It’s important to realize no matter how dire the scenarios he crafts through a particular volume, Millar is able to conjure up a wholly satisfying conclusion that doesn’t feel like he threw a ending against a wall hoping it sticks.

With the final issue of the fourth volume, Millar again writes an ending that feels right without cheating in the drama and tragedy it took to reach this point.

By the final page, Millar has established a new status quo for the title that feels just as fresh as the kickoff to the series.

Last issue, Madame Albany unleashed her ultimate ace up her sleeve in freeing the captive King of Kolthur back from the fantasy land he was created.

With only the neophyte Magic Order members still alive, the odds look terrible for a returning Cordelia fresh off her own exile in Kolthur.

What follows is Millar’s greatest trick yet for Magic Order, one that is arguably his most creative escape yet for the heroes.
Artist Dike Ruan delivers astonishing visuals capturing the majestic sight of the Kolthur army coming to invade Earth, the sinister gleam in Albany’s eyes and Cordelia’s realization when she understands how to save the day.

Giovanna Niro’s captivating colors beautifully convey the tone from deep red for Albany’s final ploy to Cordelia’s yellows and whites to symbolize the turning of the tide. Clem Robins’ lettering nails the proper emphasis with dialogue and the necessary “volume” for special effects.

With thins being so dire for the Magic Order from the end of volume three to this issue, Millar and company saved the best for last marking an intriguing new direction for the title just as Big Game gets underway.

Rating: 10 out of 10