This was such an incredible graphic novel about the atrocities of colonization. The stripping of identity, of resources, of dignity. The history written by the oppressor being used to brainwash and miseducate the masses. Having one group you target, the one who fought most against colonization, to be second class, to always be subjugated in order to never be able to revolt or find common ground with other colonized communities. These other communities see how Bayt-Sajji has treated the Ornu people and refuse to be aligned with them, refuse to be subjected to the same treatment. Where those other communities that were colonized should be combining their efforts with the Ornu and stopping the oppression from Bayt-Sajji. But fear and lies have kept these groups from working together. Aiza's loyalty, kindness, and selflessness prove to all around her the lies that they are being inundated with about the Ornu people. Aiza's friends are able to see their own hate and prejudice, they are able to unlearn and trust that Aiza is not what the Bayt-Sajji would have them believe. It was also so telling that they realized, without her hiding her true identity, they would never have given her a chance due to their learned prejudices. The whole story is crafted so well, with characters having to face the truth each in their own time. Aiza's friends one by one must question their own motivations, and also how easily they were persuaded to believe an army that also took from their communities. We also see Husni has followed in the footsteps of a friend, Basem. Basem is angry that Husni is there because he does not believe he belongs, that he is too weak to actually fight. Basem has been raised by a Father from the army, now a politician, who believes he must give his life to the Empire (support it, kill for it, advance it, die for it). Basem therefore works for General Hende to spy on the others in the camp, he spreads lies easily about Aiza, and pushes her own friends to believe the worst in her (when they know in their hearts it cannot be true). The art style is stunning, reminiscent of the Middle East. The sun shining throughout, creating rays in panels that form shadows in some places and emit a sense of heat. The moon casting light into the darkness and the stars vivid and magical. All of it was breathtaking and intricate and added depth to a story full of meaning. The end would appear idyllic with the soft hues and light, but it is also a reminder of the beginning of a new journey. Of friends trying to find a path away from the colonial oppression they have faced, hoping to continue the work of stopping it and helping others unlearn. This idyllic style mimics the beginning of the story, as Aiza dreams of being a squire and a fresh start away from her family, where she can be free. But at the end, she sees that hiding who she is will never make the world or herself better.
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