Jonathan Hickman and Marvel pulled a fast one on us – 25 issues ago, we thought we were being introduced to a new team book with a gang of unheralded new heroes. Gradually though it has become apparent that this is really a Nick Fury story, steeped in spy games and cold-war history. With only a handful of issues left, Hickman cements this by revealing the origin of the Shield-Hydra-Leviathan conflict that has been the focal point of the series. Along the way, the meaning behind the zodiac motif that has been present since issue #1, along with a key link to Hickman’s S.H.I.E.L.D. series, is revealed.

Allessandro Vitti’s art in this book continues to impress. In an issue where most of the characters are out of costume or in military uniforms he does a great job of giving each a distinct look so it is easy to follow the action. I’m hopeful that Vitti will remain on the book for the remaining few issues, giving Secret Warriors the strong finish it deserves.