Suspecting that superheroes are to blame for a virus that’s wiped out a chunk of humanity, FEMA has established quarantine camps and begun to round-up anyone who wears a mask. While The Victories put up a valiant effort to halt this campaign, the only one who can really save them is at home eating Twinkies.

Here’s the official word from Dark Horse:

When a new government force is unleashed against the powers, champions and villains alike must band together to beat the threat against them. But can they overcome one of their own? Our heroes must face not only their own demons, but the demons of a country as well!

This particular run of the The Victories, both penned and illustrated by Michael Avon Oeming, has been intent on exploring the now classic superhero themes of “super-us” vs. “normal-them,” and issue #5 does an excellent job of backing our heroes into such a shitty corner that war with humans seems inevitable. The government’s use of Metatron as a tool for shaping this crisis comes into full effect here and much of issue #5 is dedicated to activating some of the plot devices that Oeming planted in the first four issues. In this sense, issue #5 is a satisfying read for those of us who’ve been following along, even if it’s clearly just a bridge issue and doesn’t offer any “wow” moments. For the most part it’s just Oeming setting the stage for the climax.

Oeming’s continued focus on the character of D.D., again, needs to be applauded. D.D.’s power is kinda strange: she stores energy in her sleep, which she must burn off via superhero feats, or risk getting fat and dying. D.D.’s powers aren’t what make her unique, however, but rather Oeming’s very human depiction of her — she is a character saddled with remorse, and in issue #5 at least, one who struggles with inaction. D.D. provides this title with a much needed emotional arc, and it plays nicely with the central storyline.

 Again, some beautiful art here. Oeming’s talent for choreographing intricate fight scenes has always been a core strength, and issue #5 certainly delivers.

4.5/5