The highlight of the visual presentation in this book has to be Farrell’s colors. Garcia handles the changing tones of the story well, and always gives the illustrations an appropriate feel. The art of Lords of Empyre: Emperor Hulkling #1 does a solid job of telling the story within its pages. As many feel the word needs to be put to pasture as it’s origins lie in spaces that are hurtful to many. My only particular complaint with the writing here is the inclusion of the word “crippled.” While not used in a derogatory way, it’s inclusion is an unfortunate oversight. I hope they will get to have many more after all is settled in this storyline. They are the best moments Lords of Empyre: Emperor Hulkling #1 has to give. The tenderness the two lovers show each other is a welcome soft spot in a story filled with talk of war, vengeance, and anger. Even when Hulkling’s new people show they are more than a bit bigoted toward the people of Earth. Wiccan, while clearly saddened at the prospect of saying goodbye, gives Hulkling nothing but support. While there are numerous strong points along the way, the standouts are by far the moments when Hulkling gets to be with Wiccan.Ĭoming home to discover your fiancé is leaving to rule a star-spanning empire would be a tough pill to swallow. While it feels a little rushed, they do as good a job as anyone could with the time they have to get Hulkling from point A to point B. Zdarsky and Oliveira do a good job of presenting the events that take Hulkling from lonely to ruler. To wake up one morning feeling useless, and go to bed that same day ruler of a star-spanning empire is the journey Lords of Empyre: Emperor Hulkling #1 seeks to impart upon its readers. I hope he doesn’t listen too closely to his advisers.

Hulkling must put aside such “childish things” and become a ruler. It is used to push the idea that clinging to his ideals would be selfish. That sometimes governance requires one to sacrifice what they want, what they love, for what must be. In Lords of Empyre: Emperor Hulkling #1 it is used to remind the Emperor that he cannot always have things the way he wants them. A saying that has been used in countless contexts, to push countless opinions. To save a galaxy however, he may be required to give up all that he was to become an Emperor. Though most dear to him would probably be the title of fiancé to his fellow hero Wiccan. Exile, hero, and Young Avenger have all been accolades he has worn. Hulkling has been many things in his past. Before the Kree/Skrull fleet confronted the Avengers and Fantastic Four in orbit of Earth’s moon, they first had to acquire their leader. Lords of Empyre: Emperor Hulkling #1 is published by Marvel Comics, written by Chip Zdarsky and Anthony Oliveira, art by Manuel Garcia, colors by Triona Farrell and letters by Travis Lanham.

Lords of Empyre by Chip Zdarsky