Star Wars: Darth Maul - Black, White & Red #4

Recap
An assassin in the shadows. A forgotten temple. A quest for silence. Why does Palpatine send Darth Maul to an ancient world?
And who pays the price... for patience?
Review
Star Wars: Darth Maul – Black, White & Red #4, the final installment of this foray into the ever-expanding mythos of Sidioeus’ first apprentice is one of the most interesting installments in the series.
This issue is a departure from the other issues as it focuses less on Maul’s need to show Sidious that he is ready to be the instrument of the Jedi’s downfall, and more a subservient pupil wanting to please his Master.
The issue opens up with Maul being a bit overzealous on an assignment from Sidious to assassinate a governor and sent to a Sith temple in the Outer Rim with instructions to meditate and control his rage in such a way that it falls in line with Sidious’ long term plan for the Sith.
Upon his arrival Maul, looking to fulfill his Master’s wishes does some good, from a certain point of view, taking care of the mayor who is exhortating a local business woman, and taking care of some hunters who are there for what appear are Dark Side creatures.
Like Russell’s story in issue #2, Maul’s inner monologuing is absent, but Pak and the art team do a great job of giving the impression that this is taking place, though off panel or in the gutters. This story is also interesting to see that Maul’s actions not only fulfill his Master’s orders, but for a time make the planet a better place, if only for a brief moment.
The use of red coloring is used in the right amount as highlights and does not completely wash out the artwork on the page. The characters of Maul and Sidious are on the mark with the action sequences being fluid and dynamic.
Final Thoughts
Star Wars: Darth Maul - Black, White & Red #4 is the perfect endcap to this tri-color series look at Darth Maul, the first disciple of Darth Sidious and the future Emperor of the Star Wars saga. Hopefully Marvel will continue to expand on Maul's story both as a Sith Apprientice and during the Clone Wars/Rebels eras.
Star Wars: Darth Maul – Black, White & Red #4: The Sound Of Silence
- Writing - 9/109/10
- Storyline - 8/108/10
- Art - 8/108/10
- Color - 9/109/10
- Cover Art - 10/1010/10