NYX #5 brings the first arc to a satisfying close, delivering a poignant exploration of camaraderie, identity, and resistance. At its core, this issue is a testament to the transformative power of friendship and found family, exemplified by Sophie Cuckoo's journey as the main POV character.

Sophie's decision to turn against the Quiet Council marks a pivotal moment in her character development. Her bond with Ms. Marvel, forged through mutual respect and the emotional backbone to this entire series so far, awakened a sense of purpose and belonging that she never felt even as part of the Stepford collective. Collin Kelly and Jackson Lanzing skillfully peel back Sophie's stoic exterior, revealing a complex, vulnerable individual grappling with self-doubt and emotional scars who puts everything on the line in an attempt to make amends for her recent actions. Her resulting loss of powers underscores the tragedy of her arc.

Kelly and Lanzing's grasp of the X-Men's core themes is impressive and no better representation of it was doubling-down on Kamala's eternal optimism and unwavering push for positive change. They distill the original essence of the franchise: a community of "others" uniting against oppression of any/all kind, fueled by hope and determination. This narrative thread is expertly woven throughout the issue, echoing the real-world struggles of marginalized groups throughout our own history. This may feel tone-deaf in a time when the majority of the American electorate recently chose hate over hope, NYX #5 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of community, organizing, and supporting one another.

If there's a criticism to be made, it's in the pacing which feels somewhat rushed. The plot leaps forward from the previous issue, and the characters' accomplishments within a 24-hour timeframe are a stretch. A more gradual build-up over another issue or two would have enhanced the narrative's impact and given the characters even more time to shine.

Francesco Mortarino's return to art duties this issue and is joined by newcomer Elisabetta D'Amico on inks. The duo complement the stories' deep context with expertly illustrated facial expressions that convey a wide-range of emotions for every character. Raúl Angulo's colors were also impressive, with no better example than the final panel which pulls back the scope to beautifully reveal the grand scale of Prodigy's street art.

NYX #5 is a strong end to the first arc, with Kelly and Lanzing delivering a poignant, empowering narrative. While pacing issues were somewhat limiting in allowing the payoff to feel completely earned, the creative team's passion and understanding of the X-Men's core themes shine through in spades.

Rating: 9/10