(S04E19) Volume Five came to a climactic end, and as with past volumes, it was both exciting and a little bit of a letdown. But also in keeping with tradition, it left the door open for exciting possibilities in Volume Six, teased at the end of the episode, despite a fifth season not being a certainty at this point.

I suspect, though, that NBC will in fact bring the show back, despite it's lackluster ratings performance. A reboot, of sorts, to the franchise could revitalize it in the same way 'Chuck' has seen ratings improve this season. Properly handled, 'Heroes' is a show that could go several seasons. "Properly handled" is the key to that phrase, and it has been mismanaged for too long.

(S04E13) Samuel's plans are coming together as he finally tracks down one of the last pieces he knows to make his utopian dream of a home for people with special abilities a reality. At least that's the snowjob he spends most of the episode feeding Claire. And in typical Claire fashion, she remains just as conflicted and confused as she always is.

Speaking of confused, remember when Hiro spouted off some nonsense and then disappeared last time we saw him? I thought maybe it was a reference to something I'd forgotten -- it happens -- but instead it was just the first sampling of whatever that dude did to his brain. It takes Sam's "swiss cheese memory" from Quantum Leap to a whole new level.

(S04E12) One of the comic books that I never expected to enjoy is Marvel's X-Factor. It used to be your typical spandex and fists adventure, but then it changed into a noir detective series, with mutants feature much more subdued powers. One of the best of these is Madrox, also known as Multiple Man. Upon impact of any kind, he splits into two beings, and then his doppelgangers retain this ability.

Why am I talking about a comic book character in a review about Heroes? Well, aside from the obvious connection, we got introduced to a new character this week. With Ray Park's Edgar gone from the Sullivan Bros. circus, Samuel turns to another denizen of the big top to step in and be his right-hand man, or right hands.