19  “Loki” (2004)

The god of mischief finally achieves victory over his brother Thor and seizes the throne of Asgard, only to confront the dark consequences and personal toll of his long-sought triumph.

Writer: Robert Rodi
Artist: Esad Ribic
Letterer: Virtual Calligraphy’s Cory Petit

Uneasy lies the head that wears a crown – especially if you’re a covetous Norse god who has just assumed control of Asgard. This tragic tale paints Loki as a conflicted victor, a pariah driven by a desire for validation yet burdened by deep resentments and insecurities. Speaking of painting, Esad Ribic’s art is as epic as this story itself, every impressive panel worthy of being framed and hung on display. Powerful and poignant.

20  “My Own Worst Enemy” (All-Star Batman #1-5)

Batman accompanies Harvey Dent/Two-Face on a cross-country trip to fix his scarred face and end the Two-Face identity forever. But when the former Gotham City D.A. sets a plan into motion to free himself, what deadly secrets from the past will bubble to the surface?

Writer: Scott Snyder
Penciler: John Romita Jr.
Inker: Danny Miki
Colorist: Dean White
Letterer: Steve Wands

The high concept story never quite realizes its full potential, weighed down by a convoluted narrative and suspect logic.

21  “Justice Like Lightning” (Thunderbolts #1-4, Annual 97)

Into the chilling void of superheroes created by Onslaught appear a new team, The Thunderbolts. But these heroes hide a dark secret. They’re not heroes at all. They are Masters of Evil.

Writer: Kurt Busiek
Penciler: Mark Bagley
Inker: Vince Russell
Colorist: Joe Rosas
Letterer: Colmicraft’s Dave Lanphear

The dialogue is a little expository and the artwork is of its day, but the late first issue reveal still lands as strongly as it did almost 30 years ago. There are hints of the character work and self-examination and self-doubt that would typify the later run but, here in the early goings, it’s a fairly straightforward battle-driven stuff.