This is a long arc about a hidden civilization which survived in the middle of the Amazon since the time of the Roman Empire. This story starts at Roberto’s home, where he and the NM promise to go on an Amazon expedition with his mother.

They not only find this hidden society, and are thrown in the middle of a political struggle. This story was actually very political, with two opposing parties and senators fighting for power. But that’s only part of the story.

The other more important one is the introduction of Amara, aka Magma. I must admit I was not familiar with each member of the NM, so I had no idea that Amara was going to become part of the team. Her character is really interesting. Not only she has to deal with her powers, which are very dangerous and incontrollable, but she also has to adjust to the modern society and all the new technology. The last two issues are dedicated to this struggle after she leaves Nova Roma.

She also brings in a new dynamic to the team, with Sam infatuated with her, while Rahne is jealous of Sam’s attention. Dani is also slowly coming into her role as leader, while Sam and Berto are clearly the power members of the team.

Even though Kitty is not a member of the NM, she still plays a role in this series, first as the one hated by the team, then as friend of Douglas Ramsey, future member of the NM. The way Kitty and Doug hacked into the Sentinel program, creating chaos without even knowing what they were doing, is hilarious and a bit silly.

I’ve never been a fan of Sal Buscema, though I haven’t read much of his. I always considered it “old school” art, something that didn’t fit my sensibilities. However these issues have really made me appreciate his art. His style IS old school, but it’s clean and clear, his storytelling is also easy to follow, and his expression are at times very good. I especially like that he doesn’t draw all girls like supermodels, like most modern artists tend to do.

In this storyline Claremont is really starting to get comfortable, and I starting to like this series. I know it only gets better, so I really can’t wait.