The Luna Brothers’ action-packed saga about a girl gifted with supernatural powers from a mystical sword pauses from the continuous battle to take a needed breather. From issue one, “The Sword” has been an almost non-stop battle royal between Dara, with sword, and four demigods, each controlling an earthen element.

I felt the series fell into a predictable rut over the last few issues. One by one, Dara squared off against these godly villains. This issue provides some deeper insights into the last of the demigods, Malia, and her connection with Dara’s father, the original wielder of the sword. Dara and her faithful friends debate what to do next. Tension arises and Dara is forced to make a tough decision.

The Lunas get back on track with this issue. The exposition provided adds the emotional fuel that was lacking in recent issues. The impending series conclusion should be a blast.

3.5 out of 5

Armed with a sword that gives her powers of strength and regeneration, the once paralytic Dara continues her fight against the three sibling demigods that forged the only weapon that can destroy them wages on. Knossos, the demigod able to control earth, has encased himself in a massive rock golem and is giving Dara her greatest challenge to date.  With the arrival of his sister Malia, who control air, the scales just tipped against Dara.  However, Malia’s actions are equally shocking to her brother and Dara.

The Luna Brothers have been writing one heck of a rollercoaster ride.  The Sword has been a no-hold barred, knock down, rip of arms, break legs, punch of jaws, clash for the ages.  The action was unique and the story fascinating in its simplicity.  I have been a big fan of The Sword, but with this issue I began to lose interest for the firs time in this series.  How long can this fight go one?  I certainly don’t want this series to end, but I think we need something new here or it’s going to fall flat.  The reveal on the last page may be giving us that new, distinct story the series need.

The Sword remains a favorite of mine.  This may just be fatigue on my part as a reader.  I’m not sure why this issue didn’t thrill me as the others have.  The Luna Brothers are talented and I am sure they have more surprises in store.

3 of out 5