Excellence #1 Cover B Image 2019 NM

Excellence #1 2019 is about Spencer Dales, a young Black man born into a secret society of black magicians called the Aegis, who decides to challenge the organization's broken, oppressive system. The story explores themes of family legacy, generational conflict, and racial dynamics within a magical, Afro-futurist world. 

• A Secret Society: Spencer's father is a high-ranking member of the Aegis, a powerful, clandestine group of magicians who use their abilities to improve the lives of "those with greater potential" but are forbidden from using their magic for their own benefit.
• The Broken System: Spencer, after growing up in a world defined by these rigid rules and his father's strict expectations, sees the inherent injustices and hypocrisy in the Aegis's system.
• Generational Conflict: The central conflict revolves around Spencer's desire to change the system versus his father's commitment to upholding tradition. This tension builds as Spencer struggles to live up to his father's legacy while forging his own path.
• Unlocking Power: Spencer initially struggles to manifest his magic, which causes tension with his father. His anger over the situation ultimately sparks the unlocking of his own unique and powerful abilities.
• A Fight for Change: The issue ends with Spencer making an unexpected decision to challenge the status quo, igniting a potential war within the magical community to fight for a better future for everyone, not just a select few. 

• Writer: Brandon Thomas.
• Artist: Khary Randolph.
• Colorist: Emilio Lopez.
• Letterer: Deron Bennett. 

The comic is notable for being made entirely by creators of color and features a distinct Afro-futurist aesthetic with dynamic artwork and vibrant colors. Reviewers praise the series for its compelling character drama, impressive world-building, and thoughtful exploration of Black identity and systemic oppression.