New Mutants #5 Review and Spoilers!

[Hi-Fi]

Sure, people will bitch about the art (which wasn't that bad to me, just different) but this was my favorite issue of New Mutants yet.

I wasn't feeling this series after the last couple of issues, but this one brought me right back in. It's basically a story filled with great interactions and teasers of what to come. Not a lot of action, but a lot of talk. So kudos to Zeb Wells!

First off, Warlock is back. He goes straight to Xavier Institute where he realizes that Doug's rest place has been escavated and his body is no longer there. In Utopia, Scott pays Dani a visit while she's taking care of her horse. He asks her to be a teacher again, because Sam doesn't want her in his team. Dani is obviously NOT happy to hear that.

Meanwhile, Kavita Rao is debriefing the team about the Legion affair, basically acting like some kind of therapist. Illyanna's turn is done. She winks at Karma, whose turn to talk to Kavita is next. It turns out that while inside Legion's mind, they both found out that little Marci was murdered before being dragged into Legion's mind. And the murderer was ALSO dragged into David's head. So since Karma was part of Legion's mind as well, she saw and felt everything that happened to Marci through the killer's eyes. We also find out that Karma then KILLED the murderer's persona inside Legion, Illyanna convinced her to let her take the blame for it (it's said that she's in trouble for having killed so many personalities of Legion).

The science team is now trying to fix Legion, with the help of Rogue, who's touching David and syphoning his power through her. With that, all the personalities are being separated in cells and the evil ones vanishing, I guess. While Dr. Nemesis, Madison Jeffries, Danger and Rogue work, Sam, Berto and Amara watch. Berto is totally hitting on Rogue, saying she's such a strong woman and asking her out and shit like that. Amara is almost having a jealous fit.

Sam meet up with Dani in the Danger Room. She punches him again. She explains that he's trying to keep her away from helping her friends and they finally come to an understanding and she's back in the team. But she keeps punching him until he punches her back. They end up going for a beer together.

All in all, lots of great character interactions and we're seeing that the first arc will have a lot of lasting consequences for the team, which is fine by me.

Also great to see the New Mutants interacting with other folks! I was really happy (obviously) to see Rogue, Cyke and the Science Team (no Beast, though) in this.

[XaviersMisprint]

I have never been THIS excited to get out of Art History. I need this now!

Sounds great. I like that there are other X-Men in use.

[Hi-Fi]

By the way, I've been complaining that Wells writes Sam as an idiot, but Dani was the bigger idiot in this issue, so I just need to realize they're both idiots and I love them for it.

AND Sunspot hitting on Rogue was obviously an homage to me. Thanks, Zeb.

[XaviersMisprint]

By the way, I've been complaining that Wells writes Sam as an idiot, but Dani was the bigger idiot in this issue, so I just need to realize they're both idiots and I love them for it.

AND Sunspot hitting on Rogue was obviously an homage to me. Thanks, Zeb.

And Magma being jealous is an homage to me. ;-D

[Home made ectoplasm]

AND Sunspot hitting on Rogue was obviously an homage to me. Thanks, Zeb.

Lol. Obviously.

[Hi-Fi]

And Magma being jealous is an homage to me. ;-D
LOL.

Berto says to Amara something like: "She hasn't have a man for like TEN years. Can you imagine how's having no action for ten years? Tell her, Sam".

And Sam is like "Ha. Ha. Ha."

It's funny.



By the way, we learn that Karma killed the killer's persona by flashbacks. She doesn't tell Kavita anything, she confirms that Illyanna was the one who did it.

[baltiroo]

LOVED the issue. The art put me off at first. But then the story brought me back. The art is distinct, but it really let the facial expressions shine. Kinda reminds me of the Seinkowitz (can't remember how to spell his name correctly) art in the previous series. LOVING this series!

[XaviersMisprint]

LOL.

Berto says to Amara something like: "She hasn't have a man for like TEN years. Can you imagine how's having no action for ten years? Tell her, Sam".

And Sam is like "Ha. Ha. Ha."

It's funny.



By the way, we learn that Karma killed the killer's persona by flashbacks. She doesn't tell Kavita anything, she confirms that Illyanna was the one who did it.


That sounds awesome. Is Karma showing off her bad side? Perhaps worstblogever's Dirty Deeds thread has spoken too soon.

[soulkiller]

Any scans of the Rogue pages? My LCS didn't have any extra issues and I had to order one in. :tongue:

[alf_to_the_rescue]

I wish I could get books as fast as Brazil and France can.

[Talisman]

Who's on art? I don't get my issue til tomorrow! We need scanzzzzzzzzzzzzzz!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Home made ectoplasm]

Any scans of the Rogue pages? My LCS didn't have any extra issues and I had to order one in. :tongue:

Your lucky. You get to wait and anticipate. Anticipation can be the best part. When you finally get the issue you will enjoy it all the more for not already having seen it online.

[soulkiller]

Your lucky. You get to wait and anticipate. Anticipation can be the best part. When you finally get the issue you will enjoy it all the more for not already having seen it online.

I got to flip through someone else's today, but alas, I had to give it back! :wink:

And the art was really interesting, I rather liked it!

[coconutphone]

By the way, I've been complaining that Wells writes Sam as an idiot, but Dani was the bigger idiot in this issue, so I just need to realize they're both idiots and I love them for it.

AND Sunspot hitting on Rogue was obviously an homage to me. Thanks, Zeb.

Horny Brazilian? Check.
Rogue ignoring his advances? Check

Yeah that seems about right

:)

I freaking loved this issue. I'm always a fan of the more talky ones so this and X-Factor this month were absolute gems. It was great seeing the team interact with the rest of the X-Men (they even refered to sam's team as an X-Men group). Great follow through with Legion. I'm glad it wasn't just handled off panel. Shan & Illyana's secret was a great idea and should offer some great payoffs later.

And lastly my sweet 'Lock. Expertly handled even with just a few panels. You could hear the sadness at the end when he sees Doug's grave and says "Self/friend?" Aww. Him taking control over the missles and cutely asking them if they'd like to join him on his trip was adorable.

[coconutphone]

LOVED the issue. The art put me off at first. But then the story brought me back. The art is distinct, but it really let the facial expressions shine. Kinda reminds me of the Seinkowitz (can't remember how to spell his name correctly) art in the previous series. LOVING this series!

Yes! Especially his Illyana. Dani too with the feathers in her hair.

[alf_to_the_rescue]

*cracks knuckles*

[Nevets F]

By the way, I've been complaining that Wells writes Sam as an idiot, but Dani was the bigger idiot in this issue, so I just need to realize they're both idiots and I love them for it.


What do you mean Dani was an idiot? She doesn't come across as an idiot to me at all. Sam continues to a royal dick to her, so she I think she has every right to be pissed at him.

[SayOcean]

my stupid LCS only sells trades, so until i can go to the one 45 min away i would love some SCANS!!!!!

[alf_to_the_rescue]

What do you mean Dani was an idiot? She doesn't come across as an idiot to me at all. Sam continues to a royal dick to her, so she I think she has every right to be pissed at him.

Ignore him Steven. He sucks. Come join the Pokemon discussions.

[Joe Franklin]

Who's on art?

This guy. http://neighborhoodnotes.com/nw/old_town_chinatown/events/2009/09/floating_world_comics_presents_new_mutant_artwork_ by_zachary_baldus/

[Hi-Fi]

What do you mean Dani was an idiot? She doesn't come across as an idiot to me at all. Sam continues to a royal dick to her, so she I think she has every right to be pissed at him.
She kept punching him and asking him to punch her back! LOL.

It was a cute idiotic moment between the two of them, since they use to spare when they were kids.

[drwho]

Will there be a sword fight between magik and dani?

[coconutphone]

She kept punching him and asking him to punch her back! LOL.

It was a cute idiotic moment between the two of them, since they use to spare when they were kids.

Yeah I like how they resolved their issues. It was a nice throw back to thier days as youngings and personal growth all at once.

I just wish Amara had some more screen time. That's my only issue with this, err, issue. :D

[Prodigy55]

So why did Sam and Cyclops want her off the team? Isn't she now stronger than both of them?

[coconutphone]

So why did Sam and Cyclops want her off the team? Isn't she now stronger than both of them?


Cyclops didn't care. It wasn't his call. Sam wanted her off because she had been disobeying his orders.

[Nevets F]

Ignore him Steven. He sucks. Come join the Pokemon discussions.

Alf...lol, I did.

She kept punching him and asking him to punch her back! LOL.

It was a cute idiotic moment between the two of them, since they use to spare when they were kids.

lol...good points...but some people like pain...maybe she wasn't an idiot, but smart cause she was getting what she wanted? :P

[The Lucky One]

lol...good points...but some people like pain...maybe she wasn't an idiot, but smart cause she was getting what she wanted? :P

Dani definitely likes a little pain. If she didn't have a few bite marks on her body when she was dating Agent Pierce, I'll eat my hat.

I loved how she asked Sam if he was high when she kicked the God of War's ass. It's the little things that make an issue. :smile:

-D

[RickyD410]

Ah poo. I had no idea this came out today. It sounds like it was a good one too. But I've already been to my shop... Maybe they'll still have an issue left when I go back next Wednesday.

[SayOcean]

Do they know that Dani's got some of her powers back yet?

[coconutphone]

That was a great line LOL

I hope we get to see an uber-pissed Warlock when he sees what Selene has done to his Dougy.

[coconutphone]

Do they know that Dani's got some of her powers back yet?

Yeah they all saw her take on Ares during Utopia.

[frog]

Does Dani's horse have a name?

[Nevets F]

Does Dani's horse have a name?

Brightwind (no idea if it is the same or not)

[RickyD410]

What exactly are Dani's powers now?

[Hi-Fi]

What exactly are Dani's powers now?
Nothing is said about it.

I hope we get to see Xavier trying to bond with Legion again. He probably know already that his kid is in Utopia. And I definitely wanna see more Sunspot/ Rogue interaction. Was I the only one who thought Amara was jealous?

Also, Mad Jefrries and Danger are so funny together. More of that as well, please!

[Prodigy55]

She doesn't die from getting hit with an axe on the head.

[The Lucky One]

What exactly are Dani's powers now?

Kicking ass. Also taking names, unless there's kryptonite around.

-D

[Anna]

Berto hitting on Rogue. Love it! :biggrin:

[DaveTVS]

What ARE Dani's powers now, exactly?

EDIT: Whoops, same question was asked earlier.

[coconutphone]

Nothing is said about it.

I hope we get to see Xavier trying to bond with Legion again. He probably know already that his kid is in Utopia. And I definitely wanna see more Sunspot/ Rogue interaction. Was I the only one who thought Amara was jealous?

Also, Mad Jefrries and Danger are so funny together. More of that as well, please!

Yes to Danger & Madison. I love Danger. I can see Amara being jealous. Like I said she needs some more face time in the book.

Xavier & David having some one on one time would be amazing. Long overdue especially since LegionQuest ended. I loved the mention of it with sam's confused reaction. "That you don't remember it is a sign that you won." I just wish someone had said "You remember Dark Beast? Yeah he's from there. It was bad."

[Hi-Fi]

Berto hitting on Rogue. Love it! :biggrin:
She totally ignored him, but had a smile on her face all the time!

Xavier & David having some one on one time would be amazing. Long overdue especially since LegionQuest ended. I loved the mention of it with sam's confused reaction. "That you don't remember it is a sign that you won." I just wish someone had said "You remember Dark Beast? Yeah he's from there. It was bad."
David was the only important piece of Xavier's past that Legacy didn't touch on, so it would be good to see it dealt with here.

[coconutphone]

Yeah I wish Carey had dealt with it. Would have been a good arc. That being said I'm glad Wells got to bring Legion back into the Marvel U proper.

[Nevets F]

Yeah I can't say I saw Amara as jealous...for me, she felt like I did, annoyed with him for being a pig.

[Justin K.]

What costume is Rogue wearing?

[chrissstopher]

Great, great, great character issue here! I'm loving Wells on this book!

And like others have said, great use of the other characters on Utopia as well... I love it. Though, seeing Nemesis w/o his signature fedora was a bit off putting.

What costume is Rogue wearing?

Her Legacy costume designed by Acuna

[yanapryde]

Artistic tastes aside, I very much enjoyed this issue.
I think that some of the readers/posters on here may be confused about a few things in the issue though.

Regarding Dani's affiliation with Sam's team:Cyclops thanks Dani for her involvement in Utopia's storyline regarding her deal with Hela and offered any assistance she may need in relieving that debt. He then offered Dani a return to teaching, to which she was surprised.
Dani was under the impression that she was ON Sam's team.
Cyclops then, reluctantly, informed her that Sam's requested team roster did not have Dani on it. He didn't want Dani OFF the team. She was never ON the team to begin with.

Also, the 'wink exchange' between Xi'an and Illyana:Illyana took a hit for Xi'an. She'd was already in the frying pan for killing several of Legion's personalities, against Sam's orders, so she took the blame for another.
Through flashback, we readers get to see that, upon learning about Marcie's murder via one of Legion's personalities, Karma seeks him out and Illyana lends a suggestion and her soulsword to punish him.
She keeps Karma's involvement secret when retelling the events to Dr.Rao.

[worstblogever]

I loved the way Zeb Wells writes the bitchy Dr. Nemesis. Great stuff. Really, he used most of the X-Club well, here. Jeffries and Dr. Rao, included.

I kind of dug the art. It reminds me a little of Sam Keith, in places. Sienkiewicz, in others. Which, the latter and New Mutants are like peas & carrots.

[yanapryde]

The exchange between Dani and Sam was superbly executed.
Her speech about being friends and helping friends in trouble was so touching.

Including members of the Science team was a welcome surprise.
I'm curious if Dr.Rao will continue to make guest appearances regarding missions that Sam's team may take on.
On a personal note: It feels nice to be able to type Sam's team.
I like that this was addressed multiple times in the issue that he is responsible for its formation and that he's taking it very seriously. Way to go Zeb!

Perhaps some of the other readers can assist me in understanding Dani's current status as human or otherwise. Based on the use of past tense, I was lead to believe that Dani's powers were a one-time-only deal for the Ares smackdown alone. Although her winged steed is still present, I'm still left with the impression that she is a standard human again (especially since her blows at Sam did NOT cause his head to explode upon impact)

Having Rogue assist with Legion's rehavilitation, as it were, was another welcome surprise. Its great to see cameos of the more well known X-Men in this book. Its great to see her using her powers in creative new ways thanks to Carey's recent developments with her character.
She also proved to be an excellent character-moment-enabler for Sunspot. I enjoy his arrogance and light heartedness in this title.

[Nevets F]

Perhaps some of the other readers can assist me in understanding Dani's current status as human or otherwise. Based on the use of past tense, I was lead to believe that Dani's powers were a one-time-only deal for the Ares smackdown alone. Although her winged steed is still present, I'm still left with the impression that she is a standard human again (especially since her blows at Sam did NOT cause his head to explode upon impact)


I read it the same way. I hate to say that, because I wanted to her to stay powered, but I read it as something that is gone again.

[chrissstopher]

I read it the same way. I hate to say that, because I wanted to her to stay powered, but I read it as something that is gone again.

I read it the same way as well... which makes you really wonder about Brightwind's presence and what it means for Dani.

[XaviersMisprint]

Okay, not only was this issue very very well-written, occasionally funny and at the same time complex and dark... but the art? Was that water colored pencil or a similar technique? I thought it was so beautiful, and very different from art we're used to on comics.

All of the characters looked SO good, but not all in a super-model way. They just looked very unique, realistic, but also a little cartoony in all of the right ways.


The sequence with Karma and Kavita? I absolutely loved it. This is the Karma I want to read about. Illyana creeped me out with her little expressions towards Karma before the session with Rao. Sunspot sort of annoyed me here but I suppose that was the point.

The argument and sparring session between Sam and Dani? So, so good. Beautifully rendered and equally as well-written. I think we have the next up and coming Sienkewicz.

[yanapryde]

I read it the same way as well... which makes you really wonder about Brightwind's presence and what it means for Dani.

I'm sure that Brightwind's continued presence on Utopia will be addressed, along with Hela's payment for Dani's tempo-empowerment.

On a more artistic note, it was nice to see the gang in their 'casual attire' refelcting their personalities. In particular, I enjoyed Xi'an's outfit. It would seem that Illyana has discovered a goth-chic clothing line or has perhaps borrowed a few choice items from Nico Minoru's closet. ha
That artsist did an excellent job of giving a unique look to each character, main or guest appearing.

[The Black Guardian]

The sequence with Karma and Kavita? I absolutely loved it. This is the Karma I want to read about. Illyana creeped me out with her little expressions towards Karma before the session with Rao. Sunspot sort of annoyed me here but I suppose that was the point.
Creeped you out? Kinda turned me on.:redface: Wow, Yana sure is adjusting to life in 2009. Blackmetal, eh?
The argument and sparring session between Sam and Dani? So, so good. Beautifully rendered and equally as well-written. I think we have the next up and coming Sienkewicz.
Yeah, I definitely got a Sienkiewicz vibe.

This issue was brilliant in all ways. Thanks Zeb and Baldus.

[XaviersMisprint]

Creeped you out? Kinda turned me on.:redface: Wow, Yana sure is adjusting to life in 2009. Blackmetal, eh?

Yeah, I definitely got a Sienkiewicz vibe.

This issue was brilliant in all ways. Thanks Zeb and Baldus.

Yeah, she creeped me out. It was perfect.

[Leirus]

UOOoooOOOOoooo Dani and Sam are so totally end up having competitive sex !! You could see the sparks !!!

Also Yana taking a blow for Karma...

And the use of Rogue...

And Berto hitting on Rogue !!

I am ecstatic, right now...

[XaviersMisprint]

UOOoooOOOOoooo Dani and Sam are so totally end up having competitive sex !! You could see the sparks !!!

Also Yana taking a blow for Karma...

And the use of Rogue...

And Berto hitting on Rogue !!

I am ecstatic, right now...

Seriously. This issue made me that happy. It actually entirely makes up for the disaster I found Runaways to be this week.

[Gene M.]

I love that Illyana was wearing a Black Metal t-shirt.

[Leirus]

Seriously. This issue made me that happy. It actually entirely makes up for the disaster I found Runaways to be this week.

*Little dance around*

Me too !! :smile:

So... how bad is Runaways? Ill go over to the marvel world...

[Justin K.]

I hope Illyana genuinely likes metal and just doesn't wear the shirts to look cool.

[XaviersMisprint]

*Little dance around*

Me too !! :smile:

So... how bad is Runaways? Ill go over to the marvel world...

It wasn't that it was bad as a comic, it was just ridiculous how the series ended on such a confusing note with no conclusion, only more questions thrown in to be unanswered.

ANYWAY Karma looked SO beautiful here. Dibs on a Karma avatar from this issue, but I will wait a few days for people to read this book and enjoy the art firsthand.

[yanapryde]

I hope Illyana genuinely likes metal and just doesn't wear the shirts to look cool.

Illyana doesn't do anything to ''look cool''.
She is by far the character least concerned with others' opinions, on this team.

[XaviersMisprint]

I hope Illyana genuinely likes metal and just doesn't wear the shirts to look cool.

She totally hasn't had any time to like modern metal yet. Such a poser. Maybe one day she will, but so far she's been back for, like 3 days.

[Leirus]

It wasn't that it was bad as a comic, it was just ridiculous how the series ended on such a confusing note with no conclusion, only more questions thrown in to be unanswered.

ANYWAY Karma looked SO beautiful here. Dibs on a Karma avatar from this issue, but I will wait a few days for people to read this book and enjoy the art firsthand.

It is not ending, no worries there :smile:

I am sure they will be back soon, in... er... hardbacks?
And in the meantime we have NM

[XaviersMisprint]

It is not ending, no worries there :smile:

I am sure they will be back soon, in... er... hardbacks?
And in the meantime we have NM

It will do. My beautiful Karma and Magma are appearing monthly mmmmm.


And in such beautiful style.

[yanapryde]

She totally hasn't had any time to like modern metal yet. Such a poser. Maybe one day she will, but so far she's been back for, like 3 days.

She's no poser. Shooosh now.
If she didn't pick it out herself, she may have stolen it out someone else's room.
Just adds to her creepy I don't give a F-- attitude.:smile:

[XaviersMisprint]

She's no poser. Shooosh now.
If she didn't pick it out herself, she may have stolen it out someone else's room.
Just adds to her creepy I don't give a F-- attitude.:smile:

I know! I was going to say she stole it from someone's room but then realized that even the X-Men most likely to be into that stuff are still powers. (Hellion, Surge, X-23... total posers.)

[Til]

I've always been a fan of the talk-y issues, so I really enjoyed this one. It was good to see the team interacting with other characters. This is exactly what I was hoping for when this book was announced.

The art....I dunno. I liked the realism of the faces, but the backgrounds didn't do it for me at all.

[yanapryde]

I've always been a fan of the talk-y issues, so I really enjoyed this one. It was good to see the team interacting with other characters. This is exactly what I was hoping for when this book was announced.

The art....I dunno. I liked the realism of the faces, but the backgrounds didn't do it for me at all.

Its the realistic character moments that really make the books more enjoyable.
Action and fighting is all good and well but having them interact on a very human level is the bread and butter of my comic experience.
Although I really don't know where the term 'bread and butter' comes from.:smile:

[Anna]

'Yana will be fine as long as she doesn't listen to the Jonas Brothers.

[Kid Icarus]

I just wanted to say that I thought the art was PHENOM this issue.
I love that I could actually tell that there are different races of people in the Marvel U

[Imraith Nimphais]

'Yana will be fine as long as she doesn't listen to the Jonas Brothers.

We know she has a dark side, Anna...but that's like baby-killing, blood-drinking, Devil-worshipping evil...and Yana will nevedr sink to such levels of depravity and vileness...:evilsmile:

[Anna]

We know she has a dark side, Anna...but that's like baby-killing, blood-drinking, Devil-worshipping evil...and Yana will nevedr sink to such levels of depravity and vileness...:evilsmile:


I hope not. :evilsmile:

[Washout]

Berto flirting with Rogue was awkward, but her facial expressions were so fun. She looked flattered but at the same time thinking he isn't getting any of her lovin'. I wanted Sam to be like "Dude, she and I are pretty close, do you want me to just talk to her for you?"

All and all it was fun. I only bought it because of Rogue, but I will probably buy the next few issues at least through Necrosha.

[XaviersMisprint]

I just wanted to say that I thought the art was PHENOM this issue.
I love that I could actually tell that there are different races of people in the Marvel U

Yes! Dani and Karma looked like different people completely, and both were beautiful in their own ways. They didn't have to be whitewashed to be gorgeous.

[Imraith Nimphais]

I hope not. :evilsmile:

We can be sure of it...Yanapryde will verify for us. :biggrin:

[chrissstopher]

Yes! Dani and Karma looked like different people completely, and both were beautiful in their own ways. They didn't have to be whitewashed to be gorgeous.

I know... and Berto looked like he was from Brazil... I loved it all...

[yanapryde]

We can be sure of it...Yanapryde will verify for us. :biggrin:

I am, as always, ever eager to testify on her behalf.
Much to some posters' dismay.:smile:

[.LuckyStar.]

I know... and Berto looked like he was from Brazil... I loved it all...

I wish I looked like I was from Brazil.

[Imraith Nimphais]

I am, as always, ever eager to testify on her behalf.
Much to some posters' dismay.:smile:

Pish-posh!
They are just jealous of your vast wealth of knowledge of all things Illyana. I, for one hold you in very high esteem. :smile: ...but on the topic in question, does (would) Illyana listen to the jonas *gasps, sputters, pukes* brothers? Do you think she will descend to such base and inhuman levels?

[yanapryde]

Pish-posh!
They are just jealous of your vast wealth of knowledge of all things Illyana. I, for one hold you in very high esteem. :smile: ...but on the topic in question, does (would) Illyana listen to the jonas *gasps, sputters, pukes* brothers? Do you think she will descend to such base and inhuman levels?

Thanks Imraith Nimphais.
Illyana's priorities are....elsewhere.
Truthfully? Given how little we know about her current frame of mind, I wouldn't be all that surprised if she spent the majority of her 'free time' in Limbo or simply wandering about Utopia, acquainting herself with her surroundings and avoiding her brother.
I don't think anything Disney would even fall on her radar.

After researching this "Black Metal" and learning of its conception in the 1980's, its a nice detail regarding her preceptions of pop culture, now living in the present.:smile:

[XaviersMisprint]

Thanks Imraith Nimphais.
Illyana's priorities are....elsewhere.
Truthfully? Given how little we know about her current frame of mind, I wouldn't be all that surprised if she spent the majority of her 'free time' in Limbo or simply wandering about Utopia, acquainting herself with her surroundings and avoiding her brother.
I don't think anything Disney would even fall on her radar.

After researching this "Black Metal" and learning of its conception in the 1980's, its a nice detail regarding her preceptions of pop culture, now living in the present.:smile:

I have been to far too many black metal shows by accident. Its not the greatest genre, really. The fans tend to smell horrible as well. I know this from experience.

[Imraith Nimphais]

I knew it!...
Illyana does not have the time nor the inclination to indulge in such rubbish.
Thank you, Yanapryde.

[yanapryde]

I have been to far too many black metal shows by accident. Its not the greatest genre, really. The fans tend to smell horrible as well. I know this from experience.

Ya, I don't plan on putting any weight into this idea that Illyana is a black metal music follower. Although it wouldn't be outrageous either.
I believe its simply the artist's way of conveying her personality through her appearance, given how few lines she has in the issue and frequently we see her.

[XaviersMisprint]

Ya, I don't plan on putting any weight into this idea that Illyana is a black metal music follower. Although it wouldn't be outrageous either.
I believe its simply the artist's way of conveying her personality through her appearance, given how few lines she has in the issue and frequently we see her.

I know! I liked all of the subtle touches this artist put in. He is very talented. My brother disagrees, but I remember one time he also said Rob Liefeld was pretty cool.

[Leirus]

I have been to far too many black metal shows by accident. Its not the greatest genre, really. The fans tend to smell horrible as well. I know this from experience.

She grown up on Limbo... so I doubt she would notice the smell...

[Talisman]

It wasn't that it was bad as a comic, it was just ridiculous how the series ended on such a confusing note with no conclusion, only more questions thrown in to be unanswered.

ANYWAY Karma looked SO beautiful here. Dibs on a Karma avatar from this issue, but I will wait a few days for people to read this book and enjoy the art firsthand.
HOW DARE YOU DEMAND GETTING DIBS ON A KARMA AVATAR??!?!? THIS WAS NOT REQUESTED THROUGH THE PROPER CHANNELS!!!

[Justin K.]

So... no more Valkyrie powers for Dani then?

[yanapryde]

HOW DARE YOU DEMAND GETTING DIBS ON A KARMA AVATAR??!?!? THIS WAS NOT REQUESTED THROUGH THE PROPER CHANNELS!!!

Easy there crazy flakes.
Too much 'politic-ing' here on CBR.
Lets remember that Karma is favorite of many posters.:smile:

[XaviersMisprint]

HOW DARE YOU DEMAND GETTING DIBS ON A KARMA AVATAR??!?!? THIS WAS NOT REQUESTED THROUGH THE PROPER CHANNELS!!!

We should both have them. I was "calling dibs" in order to avoid having the same avatar as a bandwagon fan. You, lockerogue, and I will sport these Karmavatars.

Now chill out please. <3

[Talisman]

Easy there crazy flakes.
Too much 'politic-ing' here on CBR.
Lets remember that Karma is favorite of many posters.:smile:
As co-founder of the Coalition To Make People Love Karma, I think that I have some authority on who does what with Karma, whether it be in threads or avatars. So step off!!!!!!!!!! unless your Lockerogue, as we were the Fellowship of Karma for Mutant League this year and we have seniority on all things Karma!lol

[Talisman]

We should both have them. I was "calling dibs" in order to avoid having the same avatar as a bandwagon fan. You, lockerogue, and I will sport these Karmavatars.

Now chill out please. <3
LOL. I was joking, obs. some people aren't getting my senses of humour.

[XaviersMisprint]

LOL. I was joking, obs. some people aren't getting my senses of humour.

I know you were joking, but I'm not. The only posters worthy of these GORGEOUS Karma avatars are the three of us. The original obnoxious Karma fans.

[MuhollandDriver]

Wow....what a phenomenal issue.

Illyana purely shines in the few frames she is in.


i now see how Karma was central to this story. The end was such an unnerving twist.

Illyana is a character who def. has her own set of values. In her own twisted way, she encouraged Karma to kill because she knew it's what Karma wanted deep down. How chilling is that. Many people think a female antihero has to be vampy and seductive. Magik shows 'em how it is done. What i love most is that her return hasn't been easy on anyone. Her return marked more than just hugs and hellos. While her teammates and brother love her, she remains a character with a very difficult personality. Her unique way of going about things will always be seen as sometimes corruptive by even her closest.

The Dani/Sam scenes were goofy in the right way. Both acted like idiots....and the audience can now laugh about it. i honestly think they'd make a good couple.

The artwork was unique and full of surprises. It reminds me of some work done on The Sandman. The scene where Illyana winks at Karma was one of the best. You knew it meant something big and possibly shocking...and it delivered.

The use of Warlock was superb. Making the missles his "friends" was a great whimsical touch.

So......the winged horse was indeed Brightwind. i always wuved that horse. Now i can wuv him more!

Bring on Necrosha! My worries about this title have diminished a lot with this issue.

After reflecting on the entire arc, i feel it was one of the most character-driven X arcs we've seen in some time.

Rawr!!!!!!!!!

[XaviersMisprint]

Wow....what a phenomenal issue.

Illyana purely shines in the few frames she is in.


i now see how Karma was central to this story. The end was such an unnerving twist.

Illyana is a character who def. has her own set of values. In her own twisted way, she encouraged Karma to kill because she knew it's what Karma wanted deep down. How chilling is that. Many people think a female antihero has to be vampy and seductive. Magik shows 'em how it is done. What i love most is that her return hasn't been easy on anyone. Her return marked more than just hugs and hellos. While her teammates and brother love her, she remains a character with a very difficult personality. Her unique way of going about things will always be seen as sometimes corruptive by even her closest.

The Dani/Sam scenes were goofy in the right way. Both acted like idiots....and the audience can now laugh about it. i honestly think they'd make a good couple.

The artwork was unique and full of surprises. It reminds me of some work done on The Sandman. The scene where Illyana winks at Karma was one of the best. You knew it meant something big and possibly shocking...and it delivered.

The use of Warlock was superb. Making the missles his "friends" was a great whimsical touch.

So......the winged horse was indeed Brightwind. i always wuved that horse. Now i can wuv him more!

Bring on Necrosha! My worries about this title have diminished a lot with this issue.

After reflecting on the entire arc, i feel it was one of the most character-driven X arcs we've seen in some time.

Rawr!!!!!!!!!

Yeah, the development with Karma was awesome. So chilling. Thats why I said Illyana freaked me out this issue, after what she did to unleash Karma's inner aggressive side.

[MuhollandDriver]

Yeah, the development with Karma was awesome. So chilling. Thats why I said Illyana freaked me out this issue, after what she did to unleash Karma's inner aggressive side.

Yes. Illyana genuinely unnerved me in this issue. Very very effective.

Wells knows what he is doing!

[dustndreams]

all right here's my 2.5 cent (inflation)
I loved this book, alotta character moments and the art blew me away.
At first I was thrown off but it really fit and I would hope the rest of this book gets this Baldus guy. It gave it it’s own feel. The only improvement would be a supper sci-fi backgrounds guy to rely on. On story, I was impressed to see the corruption of Karma [another omega level] angle being played so slick while the limited action scenes seems fluid. For the 1st 4 books it seemed so decompressed I thought I’d bail by #7 but this was nice.

[yanapryde]

Be advised, fellow fans, that although many of you loved the artist on this most recent and wonderful issue, he was brought on for this issue ALONE, it seems.

Solicits for future issues display the original artist on pencils.
Sorry to those of whom may find this disappointing.:smile:

[MuhollandDriver]

Neves work has been fine, but this one was truly a gem.

i'd at least like to see him return for future arcs. Rotating artwork...like that of (i hate to say it again) Sandman, would be great.

[MuhollandDriver]

Sorry for the double-post.

Anyone notice the mini soulsword hanging around Illyana's neck in the wink scene?

Beautiful touch.

[The Lucky One]

Berto flirting with Rogue was awkward, but her facial expressions were so fun. She looked flattered but at the same time thinking he isn't getting any of her lovin'.

The best part is, you can tell Bobby is thinking that taking out an omega-level mutant has got to be worth at least an HJ. Maybe even a ZJ. He will be the first one to initiate a points system, based on the threat level of the most recent villain you fought, that determines what base the unattached female mutants of Utopia have to let you get to.

And twenty minutes later, the first mutant officially banned from Utopia.

-D

[Talisman]

YO!!! Those with scanners! I would like to see the beautiful renderings of my beloved Karma as I can't get my issue until tomorrow!!!

[XaviersMisprint]

YO!!! Those with scanners! I would like to see the beautiful renderings of my beloved Karma as I can't get my issue until tomorrow!!!

Oh my Lord you have no idea.

[Talisman]

Oh my Lord you have no idea.
LOAD ER UP, PLEEZNTHNX!!!!

[XaviersMisprint]

LOAD ER UP, PLEEZNTHNX!!!!

My scanner is downstairs on the house computer and I'm lying in bed about to go to sleep. Perhaps tomorrow!

[Talisman]

My scanner is downstairs on the house computer and I'm lying in bed about to go to sleep. Perhaps tomorrow!
UGH. I'll have my copy tomorrow!!!!!

[244]

I haven't read issue #5 yet but I hope Illyana dressing as a goth chick is just the artist take on her and that's it. Jut my personal preference.

[Justin K.]

I haven't read issue #5 yet but I hope Illyana dressing as a goth chick is just the artist take on her and that's it. Jut my personal preference.

She's not dressed goth, just wearing a metal T-shirt...

[244]

She's not dressed goth, just wearing a metal T-shirt...

Oh, thanks.

[kremlin dusk]

Sure, people will bitch about the art (which wasn't that bad to me, just different) but this was my favorite issue of New Mutants yet.

I wholeheartedly agree with this. This issue really felt like a classic New Mutants issue to me. I was extremely happy with it. :)

[kremlin dusk]

It wasn't that it was bad as a comic, it was just ridiculous how the series ended on such a confusing note with no conclusion, only more questions thrown in to be unanswered.

ANYWAY Karma looked SO beautiful here. Dibs on a Karma avatar from this issue, but I will wait a few days for people to read this book and enjoy the art firsthand.

wait!? *that* was the last issue of Runaways?!

Ioved Xi'an in this issue - seriously, this is the Xi'an that's been missing from the x-verse for a while. Zeb really nailed her character.

[Leirus]

UGH. I'll have my copy tomorrow!!!!!

But I wont !! I demand scanssss !!

[XaviersMisprint]

wait!? *that* was the last issue of Runaways?!

Ioved Xi'an in this issue - seriously, this is the Xi'an that's been missing from the x-verse for a while. Zeb really nailed her character.

Agreed. Xi'an is the slightly timid, passive New Mutant that at the same time has a very aggressive side which usually shows with her possessive powerset.

I really like how Xi'an showed that she was intimidated by Illyana in the scene where 'Yana winked at her while walking out of the room.

I am so pleased with the way this series is turning out, it honestly has made me so much happier today and yesterday and I can't even place why. I don't really care enough about comics to have them actually affect my day at all. But this felt different.

[Talisman]

I want moar Shan goodness! I hope Wells uses her soooo much more. I just wish we would have gotten to see her kill the murderer in Legion's head in the arc itself.

[XaviersMisprint]

I want moar Shan goodness! I hope Wells uses her soooo much more. I just wish we would have gotten to see her kill the murderer in Legion's head in the arc itself.

So you read it already? Do you agree that it was gorgeous?

[Talisman]

So you read it already? Do you agree that it was gorgeous?
I haven't read it yet. My LCS doesn't open until noon. Scans???:wink:

[XaviersMisprint]

I haven't read it yet. My LCS doesn't open until noon. Scans???:wink:

I am at school. Don't wink at me, you pedophile!

:wink:

[Talisman]

I am at school. Don't wink at me, you pedophile!

:wink:

I'll give you candyyyyyyy if you get in my car and give me scans, little boy.

[XaviersMisprint]

I'll give you candyyyyyyy if you get in my car and give me scans, little boy.

Scan this! 8=D :tongue:

[Talisman]

Scan this! 8=D :tongue:
:eek: OH! Now that's just perverse!

[CmX]

I loved the art in this issue! He was really great at expressing the emotion and facial expressions. I liked the last pages with Warlock it was sad to see him realize Doug was gone!

I absolutely cannot wait for the Necrosha issues! It seems as though New Mutants takes so long to be released more than the other x-titles. Well save for Astonishing, but who cares about that title.

[Leirus]

I loved the art in this issue! He was really great at expressing the emotion and facial expressions. I liked the last pages with Warlock it was sad to see him realize Doug was gone!

I absolutely cannot wait for the Necrosha issues! It seems as though New Mutants takes so long to be released more than the other x-titles. Well save for Astonishing, but who cares about that title.

What happens when you cure a revived people from the TO virus?

[The Lucky One]

I think this was already addressed in a recent X-Force thread, and it's such a minor continuity point that it doesn't hurt my enjoyment of the issue or anything, but the art almost made it look like Warlock walked from the X-mansion ruins into the backyard, where Doug is buried. But Doug was buried in the Salem Center graveyard, not on the mansion grounds. Not a big deal by any stretch, and you could always No-Prize that he just walked all the way to Salem Center, but I don't think that's what was intended.

-D

[CmX]

I think this was already addressed in a recent X-Force thread, and it's such a minor continuity point that it doesn't hurt my enjoyment of the issue or anything, but the art almost made it look like Warlock walked from the X-mansion ruins into the backyard, where Doug is buried. But Doug was buried in the Salem Center graveyard, not on the mansion grounds. Not a big deal by any stretch, and you could always No-Prize that he just walked all the way to Salem Center, but I don't think that's what was intended.

-D

Yeah small things like that are kinda hard to catch. It's not really a big deal, especially if we know it wasn't done purposely. I think the writer has done great so far with the series that this is just very minor.

[Big Red Spider]

Damn. Now that was a great read. Awesome, Awesome book.

[SayOcean]

'Yana will be fine as long as she doesn't listen to the Jonas Brothers.you know this got me thinking what if disney puts messages about its artists in comic books. like having the students at xaviers talk about HSM or pixie listen to Miley Cyrus

and what is wrong with yana liking black metal?

she's russian

[CmX]

you know this got me thinking what if disney puts messages about its artists in comic books. like having the students at xaviers talk about HSM or pixie listen to Miley Cyrus

and what is wrong with yana liking black metal?

she's russian

I doubt that would happen. I could see it being reversed, I think the characters and titles need to be promoted more rather than Miley Cyrus or other already successul properties.

[The Black Guardian]

and what is wrong with yana liking black metal?

she's russian
Not completely sure what her being Russian has to do with it, but I don't really think there is a genre of music more appropriate for her to like than Black Metal. There isn't a more perfect match.

That said, I'd still like to see her show some love for Russian folk metal, like Arkona or Alkonost or something.

[SayOcean]

I havent met a russian that didnt listen to some form of metal music

[Ryan W]

If you've ever heard Eluviette, then you know that Illyana probably loves them.

Not Russia, but still . . .

[244]

I havent met a russian that didnt listen to some form of metal music

I think Illyana wearing a black metal shirt was supposed to represent the darkside of her soul but I doubt the good side of Illyana's soul would listen to it based on her quite and gentle nature. Since she's from the rural side of Russia, I don't know if some people from there listens to it but I could be wrong.

[Washout]

Hi-Fi, I'm surprised your review didn't mention the subtle flirtation between Rogue and MadJeff.

"You have great control"
"Thank you kindly."

The sexual tension is so obvious.

[244]

I found this image related to New Mutants and the art is from Zachary Baldus but I don't know if it was from issue #5 but I suppose those who haven't read it yet would like to see it:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b311/hotmaps/octnewmutantcolorsm.jpg

Illyana's eyes seemed eager for some bloodshed on the bottom pic.

[XaviersMisprint]

I found this image related to New Mutants and the art is from Zachary Baldus but I don't know if it was from issue #5 but I suppose those who haven't read it yet would like to see it:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b311/hotmaps/octnewmutantcolorsm.jpg

Illyana's eyes seemed eager for some bloodshed on the bottom pic.

Yeah, thats the page of Karma killing Legion's murderer personality.

[Prodigy55]

THAT was the art in the book? It's awful!

[XaviersMisprint]

THAT was the art in the book? It's awful!

There are way better pages than that, I promise. That was my least favorite page, artistically. I like the story it represented with Karma showing her dormant rage she has been hiding.

There are a few pages I just could not flip they were so gorgeous. Give it a try.

[The Black Guardian]

One thing does kind of bug me about this issue... Warlock shouldn't be able to transmode missiles. The virus is only supposed to work against organics.
If you've ever heard Eluviette, then you know that Illyana probably loves them.

Not Russia, but still . . .
If you mean Eluveitie, then I agree. I haven't heard of Eluviette.

As for Yana's kind/gentle part as it pertains to the music she listens to, some of the kindest and gentlest people I've known listen to black/death metal. One of them is even a nurse. Ust-Orda might be rural, but that might not mean much. Irkutsk, the province wherein Ust-Orda lies, has a rather big metal subculture. Sadly, it also has a rather large number of drug users and people infected with HIV.

Hmm... what happened to all the posts in this thread between 2pm CDT and 7:50pm CDT?

[244]

One thing does kind of bug me about this issue... Warlock shouldn't be able to transmode missiles. The virus is only supposed to work against organics.

If you mean Eluveitie, then I agree. I haven't heard of Eluviette.

As for Yana's kind/gentle part as it pertains to the music she listens to, some of the kindest and gentlest people I've known listened to deathmetal. One of them is even a nurse.

Hmm... what happened to all the posts in this thread between 2pm CDT and 7:50pm CDT?

Warlock transmoding missiles? I suppose he thought he couldn't do that. I did saw the Phalanx Covenant from X-men the animated series and even solid matter could be transmoded. I also noticed there were some minor dicontinuity parts from the new New Mutants comics but the good thing is it doesn't compromise the big picture of certain stuff.

Well actually I meant the characterizations in comics not in real life when I was referring about the death metal part. In some parts of literature or tv shows, characters taste in music, clothing, or hobbies could relate to a character's character but I know there's acceptions to it.

[The Lucky One]

One thing does kind of bug me about this issue... Warlock shouldn't be able to transmode missiles. The virus is only supposed to work against organics.

Yeah, I noticed that too. My explanation is that after his solo series ended, Warlock had Hope (who had learned how to transmode inorganic material) upload that variation of the transmode virus to him in case he needed it. Just a fanwank explanation, but it works for me. :smile:

-D

[Ragna the BloodEdge]

Perhaps some of the other readers can assist me in understanding Dani's current status as human or otherwise. Based on the use of past tense, I was lead to believe that Dani's powers were a one-time-only deal for the Ares smackdown alone. Although her winged steed is still present, I'm still left with the impression that she is a standard human again (especially since her blows at Sam did NOT cause his head to explode upon impact)

If I had to guess, I'd say Dani held back on purpose. She displayed a substantial amount of superhuman strength fighting Ares, but she couldn't go full out on Sam without killing him.

It's possible the bulk of Dani's new powers only manifest in combat situations. I don't think Matt Fraction would've gone through the bother of repowering Dani for just a one shot deal against Ares.

[CmX]

Well I thought Fraction only wrote that scene so that Ares had someone on par to fight with. Since w/out Dani as a Valkyrie, Ares could easily have killed all the X-Men.

I was under the impression especially with this issue that she no longer had any powers. We'll see though, hopefully with next issue!

[ZNOP]

Didn't Dani Moonstar make a deal with Hela to regain her powers?

[AcesX1X]

Didn't Dani Moonstar make a deal with Hela to regain her powers?

that was in utopia, ZNOP.

[CmX]

Didn't Dani Moonstar make a deal with Hela to regain her powers?

Yes, but we don't know if it was permanent or only for the fight with Ares.

[ZNOP]

Yes, but we don't know if it was permanent or only for the fight with Ares.

I'm willing to believe that it is permanent for the foreseeable future. Although, I think she is a bit over-power like Rogue is/was when she absorbs Asgardian powers.

[CmX]

I'm willing to believe that it is permanent for the foreseeable future. Although, I think she is a bit over-power like Rogue is/was when she absorbs Asgardian powers.

Same here, I love Dani, but I really would like to see her gain some sort of ability back.

[yanapryde]

The Asgardian power boost can't be permanent.
Unless there is some kind of incantation or activation process in order to adopt those attributes, it wouldn't make any sense with the story (issue 5) if Dani retained that level of power.

My reason for saying this is, Sam's insistence on Dani NOT being a team member during their confrontation.
First, Cyclops outed Sam's LACK of request for her on his team roster.
THEN.... Dani seeks out Sam and gives him both a verbal and physical punch to the face.
If she DID retain those powers borrowed from Hela, I would think that Sam would have no problem with her being on his team. Right?
So, again, unless its got its own activation key word or magic dance or some such thing to make her super-maxi-strong etc. then I'd say it was a one-time-borrowed-power kind of deal.:smile:

[Leirus]

The Asgardian power boost can't be permanent.
Unless there is some kind of incantation or activation process in order to adopt those attributes, it wouldn't make any sense with the story (issue 5) if Dani retained that level of power.

My reason for saying this is, Sam's insistence on Dani NOT being a team member during their confrontation.
First, Cyclops outed Sam's LACK of request for her on his team roster.
THEN.... Dani seeks out Sam and gives him both a verbal and physical punch to the face.
If she DID retain those powers borrowed from Hela, I would think that Sam would have no problem with her being on his team. Right?
So, again, unless its got its own activation key word or magic dance or some such thing to make her super-maxi-strong etc. then I'd say it was a one-time-borrowed-power kind of deal.:smile:

The only thing that bugs me is... well, the horse. The horsw was what made Dani a Valkirye on the first place, as , weird as it sound, the winged steeds choose the Valkyror. So, no powers, no horse, and the other way around.

That said, I think the Valkyre powers are too much, but I love that damn horse...

[yanapryde]

The only thing that bugs me is... well, the horse. The horsw was what made Dani a Valkirye on the first place, as , weird as it sound, the winged steeds choose the Valkyror. So, no powers, no horse, and the other way around.

That said, I think the Valkyre powers are too much, but I love that damn horse...

Maybe she DOES still have the Valkyrie title and the 'death sight' along with her pony but she MUST have had a downgrade from being able to beat down on a God.
She didn't exhibit any bizarre strength levels back when she was a Valkyrie the first time around, did she? I don't recall that happening.

[Leirus]

Maybe she DOES still have the Valkyrie title and the 'death sight' along with her pony but she MUST have had a downgrade from being able to beat down on a God.
She didn't exhibit any bizarre strength levels back when she was a Valkyrie the first time around, did she? I don't recall that happening.

I dont also. I think she was somewhat stronger, and she always had a certain protection from black magic, but that is all.

When Pandemonia, Selene and Black hearth tried to get her with black magic, they had dificulties, because her sould belongs to Hela. Selene carries a big grudge agains Dani, because she has, single handly, twarted her plans... One when she detryed the Yggdrasil wand, and before of that, when she destroyed the Kree Sentinel. I wonder if that will come into play...

[The Lucky One]

The only thing that bugs me is... well, the horse. The horsw was what made Dani a Valkirye on the first place, as , weird as it sound, the winged steeds choose the Valkyror. So, no powers, no horse, and the other way around.

That said, I think the Valkyre powers are too much, but I love that damn horse...

But didn't she get to keep Brightwind after the Valkyries kicked her out? When she returned in X-Force, she hinted that she'd been banished from Asgard... I know she had Darkwind, that black horse with bat wings, while with the MLF, but didn't Reignfire kill it? I can't remember if we were supposed to think that was Brightwind transformed, or if Brightwind has shown up since then. Anyone?

But even after being kicked out of Asgard, Dani still kept some semblance of her Valkyrie powers... I remember in Claremont's return to the main books in 2001 or so, she combined her death vision with her illusion powers to show Wolverine what happened when the Neo slaughtered Mr. Sinister and (a clone of) Sabretooth. So it's possible that even after M-Day, her body remained "attuned" to her Valkyrie abilities. If so, her Ares-pwning powers might be gone while still allowing her to keep Brightwind, or whoever this new horse is if it's not Brightwind.

-D

[Arachne]

One when she detryed the Yggdrasil wand, and before of that, when she destroyed the Kree Sentinel. I wonder if that will come into play...

I thought I knew everything about Dani, but I'm blanking on those references. Unless the Yggdrasil wand is the sword she tried to kill Odin with. I don't remember anything about Dani dealing with the Kree.

But didn't she get to keep Brightwind after the Valkyries kicked her out? When she returned in X-Force, she hinted that she'd been banished from Asgard... I know she had Darkwind, that black horse with bat wings, while with the MLF, but didn't Reignfire kill it? I can't remember if we were supposed to think that was Brightwind transformed, or if Brightwind has shown up since then. Anyone?

I think it says in X-Force Annual #3 that Darkwind used to be white. Dani said herself that Reignfire killed Darkwind in X-Force #43, but I suppose she could have been wrong, or time got changed because of all the LegionQuest/AOA stuff.

But even after being kicked out of Asgard, Dani still kept some semblance of her Valkyrie powers... I remember in Claremont's return to the main books in 2001 or so, she combined her death vision with her illusion powers to show Wolverine what happened when the Neo slaughtered Mr. Sinister and (a clone of) Sabretooth. So it's possible that even after M-Day, her body remained "attuned" to her Valkyrie abilities. If so, her Ares-pwning powers might be gone while still allowing her to keep Brightwind, or whoever this new horse is if it's not Brightwind.

-D

That's logical. Sam said "You were packing an Asgardian super-charge at the time." That sounds to me like she doesn't have the "super-charge" anymore, but she may have the death sense back. I'd like that; it could make for some good stories. I'd much rather she had her empathic powers back than gain super strength. Super strength is a little too suited to Dani's personality, IMO.

[XaviersMisprint]

I thought Sam's reasoning for not allowing Dani on the team even after the Ares fight was because she was disobedient and punched him in the face. Thats how I read that. It was his little passive-aggressive way of getting back at her for being a b*tch to him a few issues ago.

He knows she's powerful, but the disobedience was his new all of a sudden reasoning for booting her off.

[CmX]

I thought Sam's reasoning for not allowing Dani on the team even after the Ares fight was because she was disobedient and punched him in the face. Thats how I read that. It was his little passive-aggressive way of getting back at her for being a b*tch to him a few issues ago.

He knows she's powerful, but the disobedience was his new all of a sudden reasoning for booting her off.

I thought he didn't add her to the team because he didn't want to fear Dani dying since she is most vulnerable of all the members.

[XaviersMisprint]

I thought he didn't add her to the team because he didn't want to fear Dani dying since she is most vulnerable of all the members.

In issues 1-4, but if you re-read the scene in #5, it goes:

Sam: You have got to stop doing that.

Dani: So that's two you owe me. Here's your chance to pay me back.

Sam: I'm not going to spar with you, Dani. You're not on a combat team. Frankly, I have a sneaking suspicion that's the reason you're doing this.

Dani: I did think you might find room for me after I saved your @#$%*^ life!

Sam: You disobeyed a direct order. We're X-Men... that's kind of not allowed.

Dani: Sam. This is about you not thinking I can handle combat... which means you must have been high when I put the God of War on his ass.

Sam: Never mind you were packing an Asgardian super-charge at the time, but this isn't about your battle-readiness. It's about you thinking it's okay to punch me in the face.

[The Lucky One]

I do think it highlights the new status quo of the X-Men that Sam talks about disobeying a direct order as being "not allowed." Since when do the X-Men, nature's misfits and rebels, care about what is or isn't allowed? And the answer, of course, is "as of a year or two ago." Prior to that, Cyclops was one of the only X-Men who cared about following orders. (Sam being another one, of course.) Now they definitely have a more militaristic mindset, and Sam's line was a nice nod to that.

-D

[Ragna the BloodEdge]

Dani must still have her powers on some scale because Brightwind is still in the piccture. And there's still the question of the sword she fought Ares with.

[tunasammiches]

i loved the art in this issue! the ethnic variety and facial expressions were awesome. and the color technique and fashions were also spot on. i hope they explain the brightwind thing on panel.

i also love rogue's new outfit. sooper cute. does anyone else want to see more madison jefferies? i'm dying for the writers to explore the character. he's totally intribuing. even though i think he's there to serve as a forge replacement.

[CyberHubbs]

The art took some getting used to, but I liked it by the end of the issue. I suspect that the style doesn't translate very well into combat scenes, but the social stuff seems to be right up its alley. I wonder how it'll match up to the dark, gritty mood that I expect from the upcoming Necrosha storyline.

[MuhollandDriver]

I do think it highlights the new status quo of the X-Men that Sam talks about disobeying a direct order as being "not allowed." Since when do the X-Men, nature's misfits and rebels, care about what is or isn't allowed? And the answer, of course, is "as of a year or two ago." Prior to that, Cyclops was one of the only X-Men who cared about following orders. (Sam being another one, of course.) Now they definitely have a more militaristic mindset, and Sam's line was a nice nod to that.

-D

Yeah. The militaristic style bores me. Thankfully, this title avoids that more than others. i am not in the mood for Sam to become Cyclops Jr.

[Leirus]

I thought I knew everything about Dani, but I'm blanking on those references. Unless the Yggdrasil wand is the sword she tried to kill Odin with. I don't remember anything about Dani dealing with the Kree.
.

John Francis Moore X-Force, the "On the Road times" Drawn by Pollina first and Cheng afterwards. A really good era, If you ask me.

Danielle snapped Ygdrassil wand during the Colossal Man festival (Where, by the way, Karma was hinted to be a Lesbian for the first time), and The Kree Sentinel was propiety of the Damocles corporation. Selene intended to keep it for her own ends, but Dani destroyed it...

[Imraith Nimphais]

I absolutely LOVELOVELOVED this issue.
The art is certainly different from Neves' but in a very satisfying way (with, as have been stated before"glimpses of Sienkiewicz")...Baldus and Campbell have got themselves a new fan, that's for bloody sure. I very much liked the colours and "realistic" 3-dimensional feel of the figures...if anything, I would love to have Baldus alternate arcs with Neves...but certainly keep Campbell on as the colourist for both artists.Zeb Wells did a fantastic job with the dialogue and interactions...I especially loved those pages with Sam and dani sparring and how the issue was resolved between the two.
And to top it all off...Necrosha happens next issue...I am wonderfully happy.

[Arachne]

John Francis Moore X-Force, the "On the Road times" Drawn by Pollina first and Cheng afterwards. A really good era, If you ask me.

Danielle snapped Ygdrassil wand during the Colossal Man festival (Where, by the way, Karma was hinted to be a Lesbian for the first time), and The Kree Sentinel was propiety of the Damocles corporation. Selene intended to keep it for her own ends, but Dani destroyed it...

Wow. I totally forgot those stories, although I know I read them. I need to dig out my old X-Force issues.

[tunasammiches]

i just internet stalked baldus. his artwork is AMAZING.

[SugarMan]

i loved the art in this issue! the ethnic variety and facial expressions were awesome.

I was thinking the same thing. They got everyone exactly right, Illyanna had her classic haircut, Shan, Bobby, and even Dani appeared to be exactly what they are. Great work. I can't wait until Rahne reunites with the group, even if only for one event. And the story was great too. It's not that often that we get to be "debriefed" after a mission. Nice follow up and I hope to see more. But the X-Men can't seriously expect Illyanna to play by the rules. And she won't. One of the reasons she's one of my favorite X-Men (along with Storm and Jean).

[Shadowkurt]

I didn't like the art at the first reading, but at the second, I started to appreciate it. However, I don't mind Neves continuing as regular artist.

The story is awesome. Dani and Sam's "I would die for you but right know I'd like to kill you" gets their personalities spot on. I also think she has just her generic Valkyrie powers and not those she used against Ares, and I'm curious as to what her part of the deal with Hela was.

Wells seems to be going for a Bobby/Amara romance which I'm not too thrilled about (I was hoping for Sam/Amara), but I trust him to pull it off. I just hope he does not turn Sam and Dani into a couple, at least not without a longer preparation - otherwise it would seem forced.

The absolute highlight was Karma/Magik. On the surface, it is Illyana taking the blame for her friend's deed, in the way of "I'm the one everyone expects it from anyway, so I don't mind taking a bit more blame to help you". However, when Karma got into her killing mood (superbly done - did you see the mini skull in her eye?), almost every X-person up to Wolverine himself would have tried to talk her out of it. I don't see anyone but Yana goading her on, handing her a weapon and making the killing more comfortable for her. In a very real way, Yana was playing the part of Karma's inner demon who was whispering in her ear in the moment of decision. (I'm going to disregard for a moment that it wasn't actually a person she killed but one of Legion's personalities; I doubt it made much difference to Shan at the moment). So Illyana is first goading Karma into an act she might not have committed otherwise, then - as a loyal friend - covering up for her, thereby making Shan indebted to her. I'm getting the feeling she might soon be manipulating the whole team without them knowing anything she doesn't want them to know - the New Mutants' Layla Miller, so to say.

Superbly done, Mr. Wells.

[MuhollandDriver]

Thing is, i don't even see Illyana the writer going the "is she good or is she evil?" route with Illyana.

Being a touch demonic, as well as being one who travels through time and space, gives her a perspective that is quite alien to some.

[Anna]

As long as I never have to see chunky, bobbed haired, freckle faced Illyana again; I'm good.

[244]

I didn't like the art at the first reading, but at the second, I started to appreciate it. However, I don't mind Neves continuing as regular artist.

The story is awesome. Dani and Sam's "I would die for you but right know I'd like to kill you" gets their personalities spot on. I also think she has just her generic Valkyrie powers and not those she used against Ares, and I'm curious as to what her part of the deal with Hela was.

Wells seems to be going for a Bobby/Amara romance which I'm not too thrilled about (I was hoping for Sam/Amara), but I trust him to pull it off. I just hope he does not turn Sam and Dani into a couple, at least not without a longer preparation - otherwise it would seem forced.

The absolute highlight was Karma/Magik. On the surface, it is Illyana taking the blame for her friend's deed, in the way of "I'm the one everyone expects it from anyway, so I don't mind taking a bit more blame to help you". However, when Karma got into her killing mood (superbly done - did you see the mini skull in her eye?), almost every X-person up to Wolverine himself would have tried to talk her out of it. I don't see anyone but Yana goading her on, handing her a weapon and making the killing more comfortable for her. In a very real way, Yana was playing the part of Karma's inner demon who was whispering in her ear in the moment of decision. (I'm going to disregard for a moment that it wasn't actually a person she killed but one of Legion's personalities; I doubt it made much difference to Shan at the moment). So Illyana is first goading Karma into an act she might not have committed otherwise, then - as a loyal friend - covering up for her, thereby making Shan indebted to her. I'm getting the feeling she might soon be manipulating the whole team without them knowing anything she doesn't want them to know - the New Mutants' Layla Miller, so to say.

Superbly done, Mr. Wells.

About Illyana, I feel her dark side has become more twisted and evil in nature than ever (maybe more twisted than Belasco) and even announced she was going to steal all five pieces of Pixie's soul to become god from the Quest for Magik story arc of New x-men. I think there'll be a clear explanation when Wells get to Illyana's story arc which will either be the third or fourth and it's connected to X-infernus. Obviously, Witchfire will come back into play in New Mutants in the future arcs.

[MuhollandDriver]

i want an arc with S'ym in it!

"Sure, boss."

[244]

Last time we saw S'ym, he was stabbed by Witchfire fatally probably to death unless he was incapacitated but I wouldn't mind seeing him again. Ever since Joe Quesada took over as editor in chief, S'ym stopped smoking his cigar.

[staceyandhitesh]

where is the site preview

[244]

where is the site preview

You mean the part S'ym getting stabbed or Illyana's story arc from New Mutants connecting with X-infernus?

[SayOcean]

Warlock transmoding missiles? I suppose he thought he couldn't do that. I did saw the Phalanx Covenant from X-men the animated series and even solid matter could be transmoded. I also noticed there were some minor dicontinuity parts from the new New Mutants comics but the good thing is it doesn't compromise the big picture of certain stuff.

Well actually I meant the characterizations in comics not in real life when I was referring about the death metal part. In some parts of literature or tv shows, characters taste in music, clothing, or hobbies could relate to a character's character but I know there's acceptions to it.The Plalanz covenant on tv was a horrible shit pile of an episode.....nothing made sense and it makes me cringe every time i see it........I havent got the issue yet but the art looks weired to me

[244]

The Plalanz covenant on tv was a horrible shit pile of an episode.....nothing made sense and it makes me cringe every time i see it........I havent got the issue yet but the art looks weired to me

It was okay to me at least but eh.

[staceyandhitesh]

the preview spoiler scans for this issue

[244]

the preview spoiler scans for this issue

I tried googling for it but none so I don't believe the previews for issue # 5 had ever been released.

[MuffinMan123]

But the X-Men can't seriously expect Illyanna to play by the rules. And she won't. One of the reasons she's one of my favorite X-Men (along with Storm and Jean).

Illyanna didn't get her soul back ever, so she's still all made of dark magic and stuff and she's gonna be really chaotic. I wouldn't doubt she will have the highest kill count in the team and also at the same time corrupting the team members one by one.

I feel the authors are treating her as a tickling timebombing. she could turn evil at any time and turn normal the next second. she's dangerous, I hope the phychic girls check up on her and fix her up.

[kremlin dusk]

Illyanna didn't get her soul back ever, so she's still all made of dark magic and stuff and she's gonna be really chaotic. I wouldn't doubt she will have the highest kill count in the team and also at the same time corrupting the team members one by one.

I feel the authors are treating her as a tickling timebombing. she could turn evil at any time and turn normal the next second. she's dangerous, I hope the phychic girls check up on her and fix her up.

isn't this 'Yana the HoM Illyana not the 616 one?

[Leirus]

isn't this 'Yana the HoM Illyana not the 616 one?

Nopsies, she is 616 Yana. Belasco felt HoM Illyana return and came back from obscurity to try and resurrect her. She still lacks part of her soul, but she is Illyana Rasputin, the original one...

[chrissstopher]

I do think it highlights the new status quo of the X-Men that Sam talks about disobeying a direct order as being "not allowed." Since when do the X-Men, nature's misfits and rebels, care about what is or isn't allowed? And the answer, of course, is "as of a year or two ago." Prior to that, Cyclops was one of the only X-Men who cared about following orders. (Sam being another one, of course.) Now they definitely have a more militaristic mindset, and Sam's line was a nice nod to that.

-D

I would disagree only because, in the field, the X-Men definitely follow the orders of the field commander... and that was Sam's point. If we're sitting around the house watching Magnum PI, that's one thing. But when in a battle situation, the field leader barks out the orders and the team follows them. This has been the case since forever, from the beginning with Cyclops leading the team, to Storm, to Cable, to Nightcrawler, to Rogue.

Storm had a similar conversation with Wolverine after he tried to kill Rachel. She reprimanded him for going off on his own and not following orders.

[yanapryde]

I would disagree only because, in the field, the X-Men definitely follow the orders of the field commander... and that was Sam's point. If we're sitting around the house watching Magnum PI, that's one thing. But when in a battle situation, the field leader barks out the orders and the team follows them. This has been the case since forever, from the beginning with Cyclops leading the team, to Storm, to Cable, to Nightcrawler, to Rogue.

Storm had a similar conversation with Wolverine after he tried to kill Rachel. She reprimanded him for going off on his own and not following orders.

I'd have to agree with chrissstopher.
Granted, most teams DID have their loose cannon character (Wolverine being the most obvious, sometimes Rogue fit that bill and of course Illyana is the wild card of the New Mutants, hands down) but following orders is no new concept for the X-Men.
In combat situations, if the designated field leader gives an order, the team is expected to follow; that is what all of that danger-room training is for.
Granted, Dani was not a member of Sam's unit at this time, so her decision to ignore his command wasn't against any rules. She was technically a civilian caught in the crossfire, but I guess you could just blame semantics.
Also...Illyana is sensational!:smile:

[The Lucky One]

Granted, Dani was not a member of Sam's unit at this time, so her decision to ignore his command wasn't against any rules. She was technically a civilian caught in the crossfire, but I guess you could just blame semantics.

See, that's the sticking point for me. Sam's team was more a spur-of-the-moment strike force than an actual team with a chain of command, but he was the one who approached Scott and was put in charge, so fair enough- he's the leader. But neither Dani nor Shan were consulted about that or were technically part of the team- they were the rescuees, not the rescuers. So even if you think of the X-Men in more militaristic terms, Dani ignored an order from someone who was not her leader, and who she's traditionally used to leading with, not under. Now that Dani is on the team, technically she has to follow Sam's orders. But since she wasn't at the time, Sam was wrong to chastise her for ignoring an order that she was under no obligation to follow.

In rereading the issue, there's one other point that I'm hoping Zeb will get into in future issues. It's made clear in this issue that Sam is now leading an official squad of X-Men, presumably codenamed "The New Mutants." But in the first story arc, they were just a hastily-assembled rescue crew reacting to Illyana's reappearance, and in Utopia they fought alongside all the other X-Men. I'm sure we were all expecting that they would become an official team of X-Men after the first arc, of course, but I'm hoping we'll find out what led Sam to propose that the team become a permanent one, and what caused Scott to approve it.

-D

[MuhollandDriver]

i think Sam's decision had more to do with his ego being bruised.

[yanapryde]

Dani ignored an order from someone who was not her leader, and who she's traditionally used to leading with, not under. Now that Dani is on the team, technically she has to follow Sam's orders. But since she wasn't at the time, Sam was wrong to chastise her for ignoring an order that she was under no obligation to follow.

In rereading the issue, there's one other point that I'm hoping Zeb will get into in future issues. It's made clear in this issue that Sam is now leading an official squad of X-Men, presumably codenamed "The New Mutants." But in the first story arc, they were just a hastily-assembled rescue crew reacting to Illyana's reappearance, and in Utopia they fought alongside all the other X-Men. I'm sure we were all expecting that they would become an official team of X-Men after the first arc, of course, but I'm hoping we'll find out what led Sam to propose that the team become a permanent one, and what caused Scott to approve it.

-D

I agree
I think, however, that both Sam and Dani were acting out of habit/instinct on some level. Dani, presuming she was an equal to her X-cohorts, despite her lack of X-garb, and Sam, possibly breaking a bit under the pressure and treating Dani AS a team member.
For me, this behavior doesn't need explaining. I think Zeb would do a fine job of doing it, but I can infer well enough to understand it was a misunderstanding between two old friends.
Sam was trying to keep Dani safe from Legion so he tried pulling rank, mistakenly, with Dani. Strangely, Dani followed his 'order' but then changed her mind and hit Legion with an SUV. Its all a wash for me. Dani is now an official team member. I would like to see some sort of invitation for Xi'an though, given her similar circumstance as a rescuee.

I'd also argue, though not so sternly, that Sam's hastily-assembled team may have been in the back of his mind for some time (possibly from their appearances in Young X-Men) given his team roster choices and his conversation with Roberto and Amara while Illyana was being medi-scanned by Beast. Granted Illyana provided them a specific goal, but I would like to think that Sam had intentions to form a team for some time, but Dani's and Xi'an's circumstances brought about necessity. Good ol' Illyana. Creeping people out and motivating leadership! Tha's muh girl!:smile:

[Mia]

It's made clear in this issue that Sam is now leading an official squad of X-Men, presumably codenamed "The New Mutants."


Thank you for posting this. I will now be picking up this book!

[yanapryde]

Thank you for posting this. I will now be picking up this book!

How did D's post motivate you to buy?

[Mia]

How did D's post motivate you to buy?

I love Cannonball, I'm a big admirer of the character. But I had no idea that he was made the leader of a squad in his own book, until I read the post. I just thought that he was stuck being a supporting player in Legacy. Now that he's front and center in an X-book I'll be picking it up for sure.

[yanapryde]

I love Cannonball, I'm a big admirer of the character. But I had no idea that he was made the leader of a squad in his own book, until I read the post. I just thought that he was stuck being a supporting player in Legacy. Now that he's front and center in an X-book I'll be picking it up for sure.

Oh wonderful! I'm so glad to hear you're on board!
Also, Sam's gonna be a great leader! I can't wait to see their involvement with Necrosha and the rise of Doug and the Hellions. Its gonna be great!:smile:

[XSE Drake]

I'm in trouble. I just picked this up today and I am IN LOUVRE with it. This is the first issue that really felt like New Mutants to me. And the art. THE ART! It's breathtaking. I love, love, love it in a way I have not loved art since Sienkiewicz. I hope this Zachary Flagg Baldus guy sticks around.

So many thumbs up!

[244]

I finally get to see some images from New Mutants #5 from comicvine and they all look good although my least favorite one is illyana going goth (gives me the creeps).

[Shaid O Gray]

The best part is, you can tell Bobby is thinking that taking out an omega-level mutant has got to be worth at least an HJ. Maybe even a ZJ. He will be the first one to initiate a points system, based on the threat level of the most recent villain you fought, that determines what base the unattached female mutants of Utopia have to let you get to.

And twenty minutes later, the first mutant officially banned from Utopia.

-D

Sorry I know this is pages back, but I hate it when my netspeak fails me. I got the HJ, WOULD have gotten the BJ, but what the frak is a ZJ? And do I want to visualize Rogue giving 'Berto one??:confused:

[Victorious]

Love it! It’s being a long time since the New Mutants were written and drawn so well! My favourite issue so far!!!

The art was amazing, how can somebody not like it?! Seriously, you may like something more comic-esque, but the art was beautiful to me, the races greatly respected (something that doesn’t happen very often), the expressions were great and the style of every character was so unique and spot on! Berto looks latino (and hot), Sam have sort of a thin face like his original look (also, love the hair), Shan looks Vietnamese (and love her expressions), Amara and Illyana (love her clothes!!!) look gorgeous, Warlock looks great (and not everyone can draw a good Warlock), Dani looks beautiful, Nemesis and Rao were never draw so good and David was great too!!! Beautiful, beautiful art !!!

That panel were we are shown Legion’s rehabilitation is amazing, the “mindscape”, the multiples personalities (lol at star trek) being connected to his head, amazing!


The writing was great too, love what Wells is doing and how he capture the NM’s voices.

Warlock was pure love! Wanting to play with Missiles and him finding Doug’s grave like that was touching. The only problem with that is that Doug is not buried at Xavier’s, but that ok, love the issue so much that it doesn’t bother me at all.

Dani and Sam interactions were great, love how Dani made her point and Sam accepted her on the team; plus the Brightwind is back! Yay! Look forward to see Dani not being leader and dealing with Sam’s orders.. they used to co-lead, but with Sam being the only leader now I wonder how Dani would handle that. Also, wondering what the hell she offered to Hela?

David is great, love him as a characters and I’ve wanted him to be part of the team since his first appearance, hopefully Wells would make my dream came true. Love what Wells is doing with him (very clever developments) and the Science team (<3 Danger and Jeffries interactions, Carey and Wells write them so good), him being a potential repowerer (?) would made a wonderful story. Plus, would love to see him interact with Xavier in the future. Marci and David are so cute too, like too very frightened kids together in a mad world, love them! Maybe when they finish killing all of Legion’s personality he would fight for Marci staying alive and stay with this two personas, his original self and Marci, that would be great. Plus, according to Shan, Marci’s body is dead, right? Also, do we have to infer Marci’s been raped? I already love this Marci, great character, such mystery… Why would she contact Legion? What’s her power?

Shan and Illyana’s moments were great too, is great how morally incorrect Illyana is shown, and I’m looking forward to see what would happen when the rest of the team find out about Shan’s secret and how she will handle the guilt. Shan’s reaction when she felt what that personality have done to Marci its’ totally understandable, since she also has been raped in the past.
Berto constantly hitting on Rogue the whole time was great, classic Berto!

Again, love the issue. Is great how Wells respect continuity and whats happening in other books (Rogue control over her powers, The Science Team, Utopia, Dani’s powers) and makes it work perfectly!!!

Can’t wait to read Necrosha!!!

Also, anyone know if Baldus is staying on the book?!

[sneggz]

Sorry I know this is pages back, but I hate it when my netspeak fails me. I got the HJ, WOULD have gotten the BJ, but what the frak is a ZJ? And do I want to visualize Rogue giving 'Berto one??:confused:
If you have to ask, you can't afford it. Beerfest

[kremlin dusk]

Nopsies, she is 616 Yana. Belasco felt HoM Illyana return and came back from obscurity to try and resurrect her. She still lacks part of her soul, but she is Illyana Rasputin, the original one...

Man, I am going to re-read those issues. I had missed that, that was in the Young/Yost/Kyle run, correct? Or X-infernus?

[Victorious]

Man, I am going to re-read those issues. I had missed that, that was in the Young/Yost/Kyle run, correct? Or X-infernus?

That was the Quest of Magik Prelude (New X-Men #37) by Kyle & Yost. Magik's story and how she's brought back is explain by Blindfold there. Also, amazing art in that issue!
The story continue in the following New X-Men issues (# 38-41), great story. Apparently she’s brought back and she is her pure evil persona (the Darkchilde) because she’s made of pure black magic by Belasco. And to gain her personality she needs her soul back, is like innocence/soul pieces would complete her one more and turn her less evil and more as the original innocent girl Illyana was before Limbo. So, after she stole some of Pixie’s innocence, he became more like her old self and her older innocent self show up while Santo was beating her and while she saw her brother in Limbo. And X-Infernus continue this story, and show how the X-Men go back to Limbo to bring Magik back.

[Victorious]

Also, some said that they think Wells is writing Sam & Dani and Berto & Amara as possible couples.

I’m pretty sure (as we have seem in early issues) that he intended Amara to still be attracted to Manuel. And I love the idea, love them as a couple. Can’t wait to see more of Manuel in this book, where’s his relationship with Amara going and if he is ever going to know his teammates are back from death. Maybe a Manuel-Amara-Berto triangle would work, I can image Berto liking Amara (they used to have great chemistry in the NM series) but I think Amara is attracted to Manuel anyway.

About Sam & Dani, I don’t know, I like them as really good friends who grew up together (and that’s how I read their scene last issue). I would like to see maybe one of them being confuse about their feelings at some point, but not see them as a couple. I like their friendship to stay the way it is.

[Grendel0606]

Also, some said that they think Wells is writing Sam & Dani and Berto & Amara as possible couples.

I’m pretty sure (as we have seem in early issues) that he intended Amara to still be attracted to Manuel. And I love the idea, love them as a couple. Can’t wait to see more of Manuel in this book, where’s his relationship with Amara going and if he is ever going to know his teammates are back from death. Maybe a Manuel-Amara-Berto triangle would work, I can image Berto liking Amara (they used to have great chemistry in the NM series) but I think Amara is attracted to Manuel anyway.

About Sam & Dani, I don’t know, I like them as really good friends who grew up together (and that’s how I read their scene last issue). I would like to see maybe one of them being confuse about their feelings at some point, but not see them as a couple. I like their friendship to stay the way it is.

The Sam & Dani interaction reminded me a bit of Apollo and Starbuck in season 3. Maybe some sparks, but they'd never work together as a couple. Too competitive.
re: Amara / Berto, there were some sparks in issue 4 (and in the very early first NM series), but as issue 5 shows, Berto flirts with any pretty girl.(Down boy)

What struck me was Illyana that issue and her interaction with Shan (much as with Amara in issue 1 regarding Empath and th other "little secret"). is she jsut being a good friend who figures if she's already killed 4 personalities she can take the rap for another one?
Is she kind of enjoying to see her "good" friends doing somewhat doubtful things, tearingt hem down a bit to make herself feelb etter, so to speak.
Is she manipulating them for something evil (which i doubt) or because she enjoys stirring thigns up.
The mix between good loyal friend who might do more for her lvoed ones thane ven the others would one the one hand and dangerous wild card with maybr hidden goals ont he others makes her absolutely fascinating, IMO.
But I thinkt he artist this issue didn'T get her (wheras he drew the others quite well)
I Liked Diogenes Neves' showing her as dangerous in one pic and as almost childlike innocent (and with somewhat too big ears in other pics).
All in all, very good stuff and one of the most enjoyable X-titles at the moment.

[Shaid O Gray]

If you have to ask, you can't afford it. Beerfest

Hey, I can always afford to IMAGINE something! No matter how insane or expensive. :tongue:

Just need to know what it is! Ehhh yer all useless. Google here I come.....

Hm, I found two definitions for it and I can't honestly say it would beat either a straight HJ or BJ for me. OH and Berto can keep dreaming!! (Which is pretty much what Rogue's face is saying in those panels)

[Fatguy]

Finally got around to reading this and I really enjoyed it! I agree with Hi-Fi, this was my favorite issue so far. The Dani/Sam scene was great, same with the Sam/'Berto stuff. Sunspot's joke about sam's lack of getting laid was hilarious, their bromance has been my favorite bit of this series. And I liked the art! It was fun.

[Victorious]

I was thinking the other day… I’ve read that in Necrosha Rogue and some other X-Men plus a secret member would be heading to Muir Island. So, now that Rogue (& the Science Team) are working on Legion’s rehabilitation, could it possibly be that Legion would be the one joining Rogue’s team on Necrosha? I’ve said it before but it was pure hope from my part, now it would make more sense, since Legion also has a history there!

[Victorious]

The Sam & Dani interaction reminded me a bit of Apollo and Starbuck in season 3. Maybe some sparks, but they'd never work together as a couple. Too competitive.
re: Amara / Berto, there were some sparks in issue 4 (and in the very early first NM series), but as issue 5 shows, Berto flirts with any pretty girl.(Down boy)

What struck me was Illyana that issue and her interaction with Shan (much as with Amara in issue 1 regarding Empath and th other "little secret"). is she jsut being a good friend who figures if she's already killed 4 personalities she can take the rap for another one?
Is she kind of enjoying to see her "good" friends doing somewhat doubtful things, tearingt hem down a bit to make herself feelb etter, so to speak.
Is she manipulating them for something evil (which i doubt) or because she enjoys stirring thigns up.
The mix between good loyal friend who might do more for her lvoed ones thane ven the others would one the one hand and dangerous wild card with maybr hidden goals ont he others makes her absolutely fascinating, IMO.
But I thinkt he artist this issue didn'T get her (wheras he drew the others quite well)
I Liked Diogenes Neves' showing her as dangerous in one pic and as almost childlike innocent (and with somewhat too big ears in other pics).
All in all, very good stuff and one of the most enjoyable X-titles at the moment.


Yeah, I see Illyana as this kind of person who has crossed all type of moral lines and enjoy playing with the others limits, with the others reactions, and to see how far they can go. Kind of seeing the dark side of everyone and exploiting it (Amara wanting Manuel to be vulnerable, Shan feeling of vengeance, etc). Love how Wells is writing her.

[pariah-1972]

Story was good tho it could have used more Warlock but i don't mind them taking some downtime and dealing with the repercussions of the last arc and not throwing Legion away after they defeated him.

The art on the other hand? good god i barely recognized any of the characters at all and Doctor Nemesis looked fat and puffy cheeked when he was always very handsome before.

The coloring too was weird and was too bright and rainbow like.

[Victorious]

The art on the other hand? good god i barely recognized any of the characters at all.

excuse me, but which one particularly was hard for you to recognize?
hardly an artist respect the NM styles (clothing) and ethnicity as well as Baldus did in this issue. the visual characterization was flawless.

[yanapryde]

excuse me, but which one particularly was hard for you to recognize?
hardly an artist respect the NM styles (clothing) and ethnicity as well as Baldus did in this issue. the visual characterization was flawless.

Baldus did an exceptional job of clearly illustrating a broad range of characters with different ethnic backgrounds.
Given how many artists have such a defined and style, it can be jarring to see another artist's take on characters we love, and stepping out of the creative box we're used to. Often times, we're conditioned to accept a specific style.
Initially, I was put off by this issue, but the more I've looked at it, the more I've grown to appreciate it.:smile:

[pariah-1972]

excuse me, but which one particularly was hard for you to recognize?
hardly an artist respect the NM styles (clothing) and ethnicity as well as Baldus did in this issue. the visual characterization was flawless.L:ike i said i didn't recognize any of them at first but Dr Nemesis was the worst.

[Prodigy55]

The art made this impossible to even read. What a mess!

[coveredinbees]

I didn't like it either, but I enojoyed the rest alright. I hope Suspot dies soon.

[Hi-Fi]

I hope Suspot dies soon.
Don't be such an horrible bitch. <3

[coveredinbees]

Don't be such an horrible bitch. <3
I will try.

[Arachne]

Also, some said that they think Wells is writing Sam & Dani and Berto & Amara as possible couples.

I’m pretty sure (as we have seem in early issues) that he intended Amara to still be attracted to Manuel. And I love the idea, love them as a couple. Can’t wait to see more of Manuel in this book, where’s his relationship with Amara going and if he is ever going to know his teammates are back from death. Maybe a Manuel-Amara-Berto triangle would work, I can image Berto liking Amara (they used to have great chemistry in the NM series) but I think Amara is attracted to Manuel anyway.

About Sam & Dani, I don’t know, I like them as really good friends who grew up together (and that’s how I read their scene last issue). I would like to see maybe one of them being confuse about their feelings at some point, but not see them as a couple. I like their friendship to stay the way it is.

Is Amara attracted to Manuel, or has he just convinced her she is? I know he didn't have powers the last time she talked to him, but if he made her attracted to him before, she might still be conflicted.

I could live with 'Berto/Amara, but I think 'Berto/Illyana would be more interesting.

I hate the idea of Sam and Dani as a couple. It's almost incestuous.

[244]

Is Amara attracted to Manuel, or has he just convinced her she is? I know he didn't have powers the last time she talked to him, but if he made her attracted to him before, she might still be conflicted.

I could live with 'Berto/Amara, but I think 'Berto/Illyana would be more interesting.

I hate the idea of Sam and Dani as a couple. It's almost incestuous.

Illyana is underage and Roberto sees her as a teammate only.

[coveredinbees]

Shan and Illyana are meant to be.

[Arachne]

I was under the impression that Illyana's as old as the others, we just don't know where she's been (in space or time) for those years.

[Victorious]

L:ike i said i didn't recognize any of them at first but Dr Nemesis was the worst.

mmm, ok, not the type of answer I was expecting but, let me give you a hand…

The black and yellow guy with the robotic look is Warlock
The guy with the red ruby glasses is Cyclops
The girl with the winged horse and a feather on her hair is Dani (a Native American)
The Asian with Asian face is the only asian New Mutant, Shan
The blonde one with the bangs is the one which the bangs are her visual signature, Illyana
The Indian with the tilak is the only character with a tilak who is part of the X-Men, Dr. Rao
The guy with the black punky hair is Legion, and the only guy with that kind of hair
The little blonde girl with the doll is the only little blonde girl on the book, Marci
The woman with the brown hair and a white lock is Rogue, member of the X-Men
The blue robotic woman is Danger
The guy with the white hair and white suit is, again, the only one who wears white suit there, Dr Nemesis
The guy with brown hair and white hair is Madison Jeffries
The blonde girl is Amara Aquilla, member of the New Mutants
The latin looking guy is Roberto, also member of the New Mutants, and latin
The blond guy with blue eyes is Sam, mmm a blond guy with blue eye

Hope that helps for future reference! Since I know it can be really messy to try to recognize the characters in this book.


Is Amara attracted to Manuel, or has he just convinced her she is? I know he didn't have powers the last time she talked to him, but if he made her attracted to him before, she might still be conflicted.

I could live with 'Berto/Amara, but I think 'Berto/Illyana would be more interesting.

I hate the idea of Sam and Dani as a couple. It's almost incestuous.

I'm pretty sure it was stated that Amara love Manuel in spite of the possible unconsciously influence (which was said) he may be using on her. She felt attracted to him even when she wasn't near him in the original NM series. Her love seem pretty real since the original series. And he love her too.
I can see Berto flirting with Amara (both him and Sam were really attracted to her when she join the team), but I think Amara's in love with Manuel.

Illyana is underage and Roberto sees her as a teammate only.

Illyana is underage? How old are they supposed to be, I was pretty sure they all share the same age. With Shan being much older, like 28 or somethng; and Rahne being the youngesy, like 19 or 20. But I may be wrong.

[244]

I was under the impression that Illyana's as old as the others, we just don't know where she's been (in space or time) for those years.

Illyana's body frame looks small like a person who's in their mid teens so I'm assuming she's still a child. I know there's adults in real life who have small body frames but comics in general isn't about it.

[pariah-1972]

mmm, ok, not the type of answer I was expecting but, let me give you a hand…

The black and yellow guy with the robotic look is Warlock
The guy with the red ruby glasses is Cyclops
The girl with the winged horse and a feather on her hair is Dani (a Native American)
The Asian with Asian face is the only asian New Mutant, Shan
The blonde one with the bangs is the one which the bangs are her visual signature, Illyana
The Indian with the tilak is the only character with a tilak who is part of the X-Men, Dr. Rao
The guy with the black punky hair is Legion, and the only guy with that kind of hair
The little blonde girl with the doll is the only little blonde girl on the book, Marci
The woman with the brown hair and a white lock is Rogue, member of the X-Men
The blue robotic woman is Danger
The guy with the white hair and white suit is, again, the only one who wears white suit there, Dr Nemesis
The guy with brown hair and white hair is Madison Jeffries
The blonde girl is Amara Aquilla, member of the New Mutants
The latin looking guy is Roberto, also member of the New Mutants, and latin
The blond guy with blue eyes is Sam, mmm a blond guy with blue eye

Hope that helps for future reference! Since I know it can be really messy to try to recognize the characters in this book.




IIt's idiotic comments like this that make me wonder why i even bother with this forum.


Did you miss the part where i said "at first" ?
I don't like the art period plain and simple i'm sorry if my opinion somehow devalues your own where you have to act like a an idiot .

[244]

Illyana is underage? How old are they supposed to be, I was pretty sure they all share the same age. With Shan being much older, like 28 or somethng; and Rahne being the youngesy, like 19 or 20. But I may be wrong.

Illyana was resurrected by Belasco from the Quest for Magik story arc in New X-men and how Belasco resurrected her is by summoning any memory of Illyana in limbo, but instead of recreating Illyana, Belasco got Darkchilde instead. She got back a piece of her human soul from the soulsword but not completely.

It's already accepted that the former New Mutants are now adults but I think the writers wanted Illyana to be around her true age. If she was never kidnapped by Belasco, she would have been fifteen years old right now but since she went to the future and came back prior to New Mutants #1 vol. 3, she may be 16-17.

Yeah. I know I should stop talking about Illyana for now since this forum is supposed to be about the issue #5 review but she's my favorite character and I love talking about her.

[The Lucky One]

Sorry I know this is pages back, but I hate it when my netspeak fails me. I got the HJ, WOULD have gotten the BJ, but what the frak is a ZJ? And do I want to visualize Rogue giving 'Berto one??:confused:

"If you have to ask, big man, you can't afford it." (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UX3xFEyWOFY)

-D

[The Black Guardian]

Illyana's body frame looks small like a person who's in their mid teens so I'm assuming she's still a child. I know there's adults in real life who have small body frames but comics in general isn't about it.
You don't seem to be reading the same book I am.

[244]

You don't seem to be reading the same book I am.

What do you mean?

[Grendel0606]

Is Amara attracted to Manuel, or has he just convinced her she is? I know he didn't have powers the last time she talked to him, but if he made her attracted to him before, she might still be conflicted.

I could live with 'Berto/Amara, but I think 'Berto/Illyana would be more interesting.

I hate the idea of Sam and Dani as a couple. It's almost incestuous.
I also tend to think SAm / DAni wouldn't work.

re_ Berto / Illyana. I remember one scene around the 40ies of the original Nm when he thought that she was beautiful, but that and other issues made it clear he was way too afraid of her. So I could see her flirting, knowing the effect she has on him and him reacting sullenly (as he did in the past) because she really frightens him.

[SayOcean]

yeah I never saw illyana as younger than her teammates, it doenst make any sense that she would be the age she woulda been if belasco had never kidnapped her

[SayOcean]

yeah I never saw illyana as younger than her teammates, it doenst make any sense that she would be the age she woulda been if belasco had never kidnapped her

[NielsVanEekelen]

I was surprised to see how positively the art has been received (well, didn't read the entire thread, so who knos what I missed :tongue: ). I didn't like it--it felt uneven and the storytelling didn't always run smoothly.

Looking at it more, it's growing on me a little, but still. I actually think an art style as different as this one works a lot better as a regular artist than as a fill-in. The same for Sienkiewicz during the original series--if he'd simply popped by for an issue, it would have felt weird and out of place, but because made the book and the characters his own, he's become one of the definitive NM artists.

Not saying that I want Baldus as regular artist, but I am curious what difference that would make.

Script-wise, by the way, this issue was heaven despite the low Illyana-count. An entire issue to let what happened settle in, to develop characters, to tie up loose ends. My kind of stuff.

Is Amara attracted to Manuel, or has he just convinced her she is? I know he didn't have powers the last time she talked to him, but if he made her attracted to him before, she might still be conflicted.

That's exactly what Amara has been left wondering--if she still feels something, is that left over from Manuel using his powers on her or is it real? How can you even tell?

I really hope there's not a relationship coming for Sam and Dani--I see them as very close, but entirely platonic.

Shan and Illyana are meant to be.

Now that, I don't know that it's meant to be, but I could certainly get behind it.

yeah I never saw illyana as younger than her teammates, it doenst make any sense that she would be the age she woulda been if belasco had never kidnapped her

To me it makes less sense that she'd be the age the others are--Belasco resurrected her as she was during Inferno, and having her jump through time (before NM #1) honestly feels like it's more about the convenience of having everyone be the same age than it is about story logic.

We'll see how old Doug is when he shows up--when he died, he was around the same age 'Yana was during Iferno, wasn't he? I think it'd make for an interesting dynamic if the team ended up with these two younger-yet-still-as-old-as-the-others members.

Loved Roberto this issue, by the way. He was hilarious and he knew.

[pariah-1972]

I have to admit how surprising it is how great illyana is in this series after they way she has been treated over the years/decades her being the resident bad ass/Wolverine type makes perfect sense after all that shes been thru since she has been thru literally hell and back.

Sorry for rambeling:redface:

[NielsVanEekelen]

"New Mutants is working far better than it ought to. What appeared, on the surface, to be a last-ditch attempt at making a junior X-Men book after "Young X-Men" failed has actually turned out to be a much deeper and complex book reminiscent not only of the original "New Mutants," but of "X-Men" in its heyday."

See, now that's (http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=user_review&id=1456)the kind of review I like to see. :smile:

[Talisman]

I finally got my issue(like a week later lol) and LOVED IT!!!! I'm loving Dani by Wells! He better keep writing her like the bad ass she is! I wonder what plans he has for my Xi'an. Please don't make her all angsty and broody. We have enough of those characters in the X-Men as it is.

[Talisman]

If the Hellions come back for good, who would you like to see leading them?

Selene?

A revamped/reborn Madelyne?

Manny?

Doug?

[jarrod]

Shan and Illyana are meant to be.
They're both just rebounding off Kitty.

[Talisman]

They're both just rebounding off Kitty.
How hot would the scenes be between them if they were scissoring while reminiscing over the Jew goddess?

[Shaid O Gray]

"If you have to ask, big man, you can't afford it." (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UX3xFEyWOFY)

-D

Yeah I found it, but for your information my friend, I CAN afford 15 dollars! (Sometimes) And I'm pretty sure Berto can.....(Course he's still not gonna get any from Rogue, but.....:biggrin: )

I was surprised to see how positively the art has been received (well, didn't read the entire thread, so who knos what I missed ). I didn't like it--it felt uneven and the storytelling didn't always run smoothly.

It had its pros and cons I think. But this guy's Rogue was just horrific. (Trouwens, hoe gaat het in Nederland tegenwoordig?:biggrin: )

[jarrod]

How hot would the scenes be between them if they were scissoring while reminiscing over the Jew goddess?
Shan committing statutory rape is always hot, jew talk or no!

[Talisman]

Shan committing statutory rape is always hot, jew talk or no!
I'm sure Illyana is of the age of consent...and it's not like her parents can press charges.

[NielsVanEekelen]

They're both just rebounding off Kitty.

This is true and has the potential of wrecking any potential relationship between them in a most entertaining fashion.:smile:

(Trouwens, hoe gaat het in Nederland tegenwoordig?:biggrin: )

O, goed hoor. Alleen krijgen we hier onze comics een dag later, dat is balen, anders was ik nu in de stripwinkel in plaats van online. :tongue:

[Prodigy55]

Shan already took advantage of those Russian sex slaves.

[coconutphone]

I'm sure Illyana is of the age of consent...and it's not like her parents can press charges.

LOL Ouch! :biggrin:

[yanapryde]

I have to admit how surprising it is how great illyana is in this series after they way she has been treated over the years/decades her being the resident bad ass/Wolverine type makes perfect sense after all that shes been thru since she has been thru literally hell and back.

Sorry for rambeling:redface:

All positive-Illyana-focused-ramblings and/or rants are both welcome and encouraged, pariah-1972.
She's been in good hands thus far with Mr.Wells.:smile:

[jarrod]

I'm sure Illyana is of the age of consent...and it's not like her parents can press charges.
Pitor's probably her legal guardian now. I am positive he wouldn't agree with pressing charges. ;)

Which brings us back to, how old is Yana again? 16? Has her being younger than the rest of the team (and closer to the New/Young/Student X-Men) been brought up yet?

[yanapryde]

They're both just rebounding off Kitty.

Illy and Kitty were considered to be soul sisters by many, for their unexplained connection.
It would be a little humorous if Wells chose to exploit that in some way by having Xi'an being inexplicably drawn to 'Yana.:smile:

[NielsVanEekelen]

Which brings us back to, how old is Yana again? 16? Has her being younger than the rest of the team (and closer to the New/Young/Student X-Men) been brought up yet?

Zeb has said in interviews that she's around the same age as the others, but it--or the how and why of it--hasn't come up yet in the book.

Shan already took advantage of those Russian sex slaves.

So you're saying she has a taste for Russians now?

Ugh. That was not intended as a horrible pun. In fact, I'm going to pretend I haven't even realized that can be read as a pun.

[yanapryde]

Pitor's probably her legal guardian now. I am positive he wouldn't agree with pressing charges. ;)

Which brings us back to, how old is Yana again? 16? Has her being younger than the rest of the team (and closer to the New/Young/Student X-Men) been brought up yet?

Allow me to, yet again, quote Zeb from his interview with Jess Harrold in the "marvel spotlight" issue:

SPOTLIGHT: Magik, has, shall we say, a complex history: artificially aged from a child, but then she spent time the last few years believed dead. Does that make her younger than the other guys? How does this stuff work?

ZEB: No kidding, there's a lot of mystery with her character. I think fo rnow I'm just throwing her in, and she's going to be a bit older than you've seen her. She's going to be round about the same age as the others.

So there you go. We don't know her exact age. But marvel rarely, if ever, reveals a character's exact age.:smile:

Zeb continues further stating "...for the first year or so we don't know how old Illyana is, what her context is. As far as new readers go, I want it to be very simple: This is a girl that was raised by demons. She's got her own agenda and her own view on things."

[jarrod]

Oh yeah, I forgot that Illyana came back through time... so she'd be a little older than she was at the end of X-Infernus. She "died" at 16 or so, so I guess that's how old she was when Belasco brought her back in QFM?

The X-Office regressed the Muties ages too though (Sam's only 21 now right?) so I guess they're all pretty close age wise to the students suddenly. Lame. :/

[244]

All positive-Illyana-focused-ramblings and/or rants are both welcome and encouraged, pariah-1972.
She's been in good hands thus far with Mr.Wells.:smile:

So that means I get to complain about her out-of-character and rant about it in a positive way? Sweet! I HATED her goth/trash rock outfit from #5.

I'm with you that Illyana's in good hands with Zeb Wells now. He did a fantastic job on her so far.

[Victorious]

It's idiotic comments like this that make me wonder why i even bother with this forum.


Did you miss the part where i said "at first" ?
I don't like the art period plain and simple i'm sorry if my opinion somehow devalues your own where you have to act like a an idiot .

Sorry, but if by “idiotic” you mean “sarcastic”, then yeah. Sorry, I may have being a little aggressive unnecessarily, but that the exact same way I thought your respond was. I hard it hard to believe you couldn’t recognize the characters at first. You may have not like the art because you don’t like the style but saying the characters didn’t look like the characters I think it was just for the sake of being aggressive, an aggressive unconstructive critic. Then I ask you with which one you have trouble in particular and then you go: all of them were bad (which I really doubt). So, yeah I think that as you don’t feel very explicative and just criticizing for the sake of it (or at least that’s the way I perceive it) I just thought I would answer the same way. Again, I could be wrong and you really just don’t recognize the characters, if that’s the case, again, I’m sorry. But I think you are pretty much the only one with that kind of trouble (I mean the recognizing).


Allow me to, yet again, quote Zeb from his interview with Jess Harrold in the "marvel spotlight" issue:
[/COLOR][/FONT]
SPOTLIGHT: Magik, has, shall we say, a complex history: artificially aged from a child, but then she spent time the last few years believed dead. Does that make her younger than the other guys? How does this stuff work?

ZEB: No kidding, there's a lot of mystery with her character. I think fo rnow I'm just throwing her in, and she's going to be a bit older than you've seen her. She's going to be round about the same age as the others.

So there you go. We don't know her exact age. But marvel rarely, if ever, reveals a character's exact age.:smile:

Zeb continues further stating "...for the first year or so we don't know how old Illyana is, what her context is. As far as new readers go, I want it to be very simple: This is a girl that was raised by demons. She's got her own agenda and her own view on things."

Well that explain Illyana’s age, thanks!

[244]

Allow me to, yet again, quote Zeb from his interview with Jess Harrold in the "marvel spotlight" issue:
[/COLOR][/FONT]
SPOTLIGHT: Magik, has, shall we say, a complex history: artificially aged from a child, but then she spent time the last few years believed dead. Does that make her younger than the other guys? How does this stuff work?

ZEB: No kidding, there's a lot of mystery with her character. I think fo rnow I'm just throwing her in, and she's going to be a bit older than you've seen her. She's going to be round about the same age as the others.

So there you go. We don't know her exact age. But marvel rarely, if ever, reveals a character's exact age.:smile:

Zeb continues further stating "...for the first year or so we don't know how old Illyana is, what her context is. As far as new readers go, I want it to be very simple: This is a girl that was raised by demons. She's got her own agenda and her own view on things."

I'm going to assume Illyana is around the same age as the New X-men. She looks in her mid teens(I know there are other posters who hate the New X-men and I respect their opinion but I like them).

[The Black Guardian]

So you're saying she has a taste for Russians now?

Ugh. That was not intended as a horrible pun. In fact, I'm going to pretend I haven't even realized that can be read as a pun.
As if it hasn't been on all of our minds since Yana winked at Xi'an.:wink:

[Gnarl]

The Sam & Dani interaction reminded me a bit of Apollo and Starbuck in season 3. Maybe some sparks, but they'd never work together as a couple. Too competitive.
re: Amara / Berto, there were some sparks in issue 4 (and in the very early first NM series), but as issue 5 shows, Berto flirts with any pretty girl.(Down boy)

What struck me was Illyana that issue and her interaction with Shan (much as with Amara in issue 1 regarding Empath and th other "little secret"). is she jsut being a good friend who figures if she's already killed 4 personalities she can take the rap for another one?
Is she kind of enjoying to see her "good" friends doing somewhat doubtful things, tearingt hem down a bit to make herself feelb etter, so to speak.
Is she manipulating them for something evil (which i doubt) or because she enjoys stirring thigns up.
The mix between good loyal friend who might do more for her lvoed ones thane ven the others would one the one hand and dangerous wild card with maybr hidden goals ont he others makes her absolutely fascinating, IMO.
But I thinkt he artist this issue didn'T get her (wheras he drew the others quite well)
I Liked Diogenes Neves' showing her as dangerous in one pic and as almost childlike innocent (and with somewhat too big ears in other pics).
All in all, very good stuff and one of the most enjoyable X-titles at the moment.

I rather enjoy Illyanas characterization as well.

This is the girl who wanted to play with the other New Mutants, but didn't know how to ask back at the start. The New Mutants and Kitty are the only friends shes ever had, and they are infinitly precious to her.

But she was raised by demons, and her way of taking to them reflects that -and theoretical knowledge of friendship. When she offered Amara to heal Empath what I heard was "I'll help you with boys, and I'll keep your secrets and I'll do all the things a friend does. Please still be my friend. I just don't know how to say it."

Illyana has limited experience in how to talk to someone who is not a Demon.

Same with the Xi'an thing. Illyana is desperately trying to be a good friend to the only friends shes ever had, and coming over as way creepy because she doesn't know how.

Thats my take on it anyway.

[SayOcean]

I think she was teasing amara, sometimes friends do that, esp ones that have sort of estranged friendship....I know ive done it before kinda like assuring you arent the only one who is kinda dark and having a friend drawn into it, esp with your guidance makes you feel a lil better

[NielsVanEekelen]

I rather enjoy Illyanas characterization as well.

This is the girl who wanted to play with the other New Mutants, but didn't know how to ask back at the start. The New Mutants and Kitty are the only friends shes ever had, and they are infinitly precious to her.

But she was raised by demons, and her way of taking to them reflects that -and theoretical knowledge of friendship. When she offered Amara to heal Empath what I heard was "I'll help you with boys, and I'll keep your secrets and I'll do all the things a friend does. Please still be my friend. I just don't know how to say it."

Illyana has limited experience in how to talk to someone who is not a Demon.

Same with the Xi'an thing. Illyana is desperately trying to be a good friend to the only friends shes ever had, and coming over as way creepy because she doesn't know how.

Thats my take on it anyway.

I like your interpretation.

Personally, I think she's also testing boundaries and pushing people's limits a bit--maybe trying to prove that although she has a darkness in her and can do bad things, everyone else does so as well, making herself no worse than her friends.

[coveredinbees]

They're both just rebounding off Kitty.
That's how some of the strongest relationships are formed.