SPOILER WARNING: This article contains a major spoiler for Marvel's "Secret Empire" Free Comic Book Day issue, which is available on May 6.


Though it's not scheduled to be released until Saturday, May 6, copies of Marvel Comics' big 2017 Free Comic Book Day offering has already found its way into the hands of fans. And, as expected, the issue's big "Secret Empire" twist then quickly ended up online.

The final page, initially reported on by Bleeding Cool, represents a major turn in the story of a Captain America whose reality has been altered in such a way that he's been a Hydra agent from day one. His agenda was fully revealed in last week's "Secret Empire" #0, and will be furthered in issue #1, which arrives in stores several days before the leaked FCBD chapter.

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The closing image of the issue, illustrated by Andrea Sorrentino, reveals that Hydra-loyal Steve Rogers, in his Captain America uniform, is worthy enough to lift Thor's hammer Mjolnir high above his head.

Of course, without context, it's difficult to draw conclusions regarding the splash page reveal. Not only are there multiple realities in play in the Marvel Universe, "Secret Empire" alone features two; one in which everything happened the way we, the readers, remember, and another in which Cap's life has been one of subterfuge and lies.

And while fans will have to wait a little bit longer to read the story for themselves, "Secret Empire" architect Nick Spencer seems pleased with the early reactions... even if they are arriving a little ahead of schedule.

“Secret Empire” kicked off earlier this month with Issue #0. Issue #1 arrives in stores May 3, three days ahead of Free Comic Book Day (May 6). The nine-issue event will conclude in August.