This is of course, an attempted homage to Archer and Armstrong 8 - down to the two covers that fit together to re-tell the historical story - one I can't say that I am very familiar with so far. So the story doesn't end as well as it started. Of course, Aram seduces the lady, and the Sect starts a trek against Armstrong to last throughout eternities. I'm not certain that it linked up with the hardcover later, but I don't remember either part well, as I am certain no one has. It tried to be more of an Archer and Armstrong story - which is strange seeing as it was cancelled thereafter, but it is probably trying to give sme finality to the series.
Vengeance, eh?
Great to see Wally Wood getting the shout out at the cover of the comic. Nice. The book is a rather good one. Nice to see the attempts of one so 'evil' join - especially around the team's current ranks. Hawkeye, SW, and Quicksilver all started out as villains, albeit reluctant ones. The Swordsman sort of infiltrates the team - with the assistance of the Mandarin, but both seem to turn on each other at the end. Swordsman is extricated from the group - and regrets not being able to remain an Avenger - even if he calls it a reluctant - or false one. The book is taking a nice direction -as is much of the Silver Age at this point. The characters - even Cap to a degree - are all starting to reveal that darker side of each of their psyche. Excellent turns.
Hmmm...
If this was against A & A, I would have leaned there. Against EW, I lean to the Avengers.