The First #9

In the ninth issue of *The First*, Ingra pushes her influence further by expanding her palace using power drawn from the High Council of Sinister, a move that unsettles the balance of Altwaal. As Gannish prepares to depart on a secretive mission, his departure stirs tension between Yala and the unexpected arrival of Persha in the rift. Meanwhile, Rhorf brings Minister Ilahn to Elysia, and Ingra offers Seahn control of House Dexter—while Pyrem watches, wary of the risks to the obelisk. Written by Barbara Kesel and illustrated by Bart Sears, with inks by Andy Smith, colors by Michael Atiyeh, and lettering by Dave Lanphear and Troy Peteri, the cover by Bart Sears and Andy Smith captures the growing tension of a world on edge.