Marvel’s Space Event Just Dropped a Red Wedding-Level Shockwave!

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In the opening scenes of “Imperial,” there’s a dramatic event reminiscent of the infamous “Red Wedding” from the popular series “Game of Thrones.” This shocking sequence, much like the Red Wedding, stirred strong emotions in viewers who weren’t already acquainted with the space opera’s intricate plotlines by author George R.R. Martin. Similar to how “Game of Thrones” unfolds, “Imperial” is a sprawling epic that combines political scheming, fatalities, assassinations, and competing empires. One pivotal scene in the premiere issue mirrors this “Game of Thrones” reference.

WARNING: Spoilers for Imperial #1 below.

In the creative minds of Jonathan Hickman, Federico Vincentini, Iban Coello, Federico Blee, and VC’s Cory Petit, we find the origin of #1 Imperial. A series of murders is taking place, targeting the leaders of various galactic empires. Among these victims are Hulk’s son, Hiro-Kala of New Sakaar, and Star-Lord’s sister, Empress Victoria of Spartax. To complicate matters further, these deaths occur just before a major galactic council meeting. Peter Quill’s father, J’son, assigns him the task of investigating these killings. Initially reluctant, Nova (Richard Rider) refuses Star-Lord’s recruitment offer. However, following a tragic incident at the galactic council meeting, he decides to aid in the investigation.

Imperial’s Red Wedding Will Have Lasting Repercussions

After the Galactic Council has convened, Emperor J’son reveals that medics have pinpointed the culprit behind the poisonings that claimed the lives of four galactic leaders. The evidence suggests it was the Kree/Skrull alliance, but Emperor Hulkling vehemently denies any involvement. However, a scientist from the Kree/Skrull Ministry comes clean about being hired to produce the poisons. Unfortunately, before he could disclose the council members who issued the contract, he was fatally shot by a sniper.

We observe the fall of a Kymellian, a Gladiator of the Shi’ar shields Queen Xandra from a deadly shot, and ultimately, J’son is the last ruler to succumb. Brawn (Amadeus Cho) locates the sniper’s whereabouts, prompting the Hulk to intervene. He discovers a masked Wakandan who sets off an explosive on the ceiling, causing the galactic council to plunge into the abyss of space. The Wakandan flees on a speeder bike, leaving Hulk to assist the Shi’ar Imperial Guard in rescuing as many survivors as possible.

Following the demise of J’son, Peter Quill ascends to the throne of Spartax, claiming his father’s ring in a symbolic gesture. In all, 12 members of the Galactic Council have perished, among them three heads of state. Meanwhile, double that number are unaccounted for in space, enlisting figures like Emperor Hulkling and Wiccan. Nova makes an appearance to extend his assistance, while the surviving council members reconvene to discuss their findings. Upon scrutinizing the trajectory of the victims’ remains and tracing the source of the poisoned science minister’s payment, the culprits are traced back to the Wakandan Galactic Empire, with the bullets themselves being crafted from Vibranium.

It’s uncertain if Wakanda is behind these atrocious deeds, but there seem to be hidden manipulators pulling strings that may be orchestrating these occurrences, potentially setting up Wakanda as the fall guy. Similar to how the Freys betrayed House Stark on the Lannisters’ orders during “The Red Wedding,” there could be masterminds behind the scenes seeking retribution for the deaths of key characters – J’son, Robb, and Catelyn Stark. This unfolds in the first issue of Imperial, leaving us to wonder what further surprises and revelations await in the upcoming issues.

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2025-06-04 17:40