Patience, Virtue, Resurrection, and Heart: Phoenix Resurrection: The Return of Jean Grey #5

The following is my review of Phoenix Resurrection: The Return of Jean Grey #5, which was posted on PopMatters.com.

Patience in comics isn't just a virtue. It's built right into the industry. Unlike a movie or TV show, the stories are often structured in pieces and drawn out over multiple issues. That means if something exciting happens in one issue, it could be at least a week or several before anyone finds out what happens next. That structure works well within the unique storytelling format that comics utilize, but the need for patience is a lot harder in the era of binge-watching.

Other than video game fans still waiting Half Life 3, few comic fans exercise more patience than those waiting for the return of Jean Grey in the X-men comics. For over a decade-and-a-half, her absence acts as a glaring hole in the heart of the X-men's collective soul. Every now and then, there are teases like Phoenix Endsong, Hope Summers, and the teenage time-displaced version of Jean Grey. However, none of them can quite fill that hole. Only the real, non-clone, non-time displaced Jean Grey can do that.

Now, with Phoenix Resurrection: The Return of Jean Grey, the time for patience is finally at an end. At last, Jean Grey is set to return to a Marvel universe that is very different from the one she left in the flip-phone loving days of 2004. In a world that tried to replace her with Emma Frost, time travelers, and clones, the return of the one true Jean Grey promises the kind of catharsis for which even the most patient X-men fans have longed.

Matthew Rosenberg does not not shy away from hitting every emotional chord as hard as possible without bringing Juggernaut into the picture. Throughout the story, he puts Jean in a situation where the prospect of heartache and loss is unavoidable. Such themes are painfully common for Jean Grey, but also bring out the best in her and those around her. Phoenix Resurrection: The Return of Jean Grey #5 takes those themes, supercharges them with cosmic energy, and pushes the drama to limit. For a character as beloved and passionate as Jean Grey, there can be nothing less.

The mystery that plays out over the course of several issues gives way to a battle of heart, tragedy, and spirit. The blanks are filled in. The motivations, mechanisms, and undertones are all in place. The how, the why, and the context of Jean Grey's return to the world of the living is firmly established. All that's left is for Jean to confront it. That confrontation brings out every bit of passion that has made Jean Grey such a compelling character. From Chris Claremont to Grant Morrison, this moment highlights both the strength and tragedy of who she is.

This is not one of those struggles where the X-men have to fight to save Jean. This is a battle Jean fights largely by herself. The X-men are there and they provide support, but they don't try to fight the battle for her. Other than Old Man Logan putting himself in the line of fire, literally to some extent, to get the struggle going, it's Jean who does the heavy lifting. Between dealing with cosmic forces and being Emma Frost's rival, she's more equipped than most for this kind of battle.

It's the kind of battle that only a handful of characters can fight and do so in a compelling way. That's because Jean Grey is one of those characters whose story is so defined by tragedy, loss, and being overwhelmed by a situation. Whether it's a cosmic force or an attack by Juggernaut, Jean fights more of these battles than most, but still does it with a sense of heart and compassion. She never lets herself become too jaded or hardened by the struggle. It's part of why she's often considered the heart of the X-men.

That heart is often strained and the workings of the Phoenix Force push it to its limit in Phoenix Resurrection: The Return of Jean Grey #5. It doesn't just tempt Jean with the possibility of great cosmic power. That kind of power tempts someone in the X-men every other week. The Phoenix Force makes it more personal.

It reminds Jean of how many friends, family, and loved ones she has lost over the years. It also lets her know that embracing cosmic power will give her the ability to stop all that. It all sounds so tempting and reasonable, but Jean knows better than most how that kind of power tends to come at a price. Having been killed by that price more than once, though, such temptation only goes so far with Jean.

It's not just a matter of power corrupting, a theme that goes back to the original Phoenix Saga by Chris Claremont. The Phoenix Force, in this case, actually shows Jean that it's possible. It literally creates a fantasy world full of all the people Jean knows and loves, uncomplicated and untainted by tragedy, loss, and the influence of Emma Frost.

It's a world that anyone with any measure of emotional vulnerability would want to embrace. Jean has to do the opposite in lieu of reliving those painful themes that Claremont did so much to belabor. It's not the same inner struggle that Jean seems to deal with every time the Phoenix Force gets a little too clingy. Jean has to actively fight the Phoenix Force, pushing it away along with all the temptations that its power allows.

It's a fight that that involves much more than simply saying no or resisting temptation. Jean and the Phoenix Force have an overdue heart-to-heart, one that strains both her and the Phoenix Force on an emotional level. However, that doesn't stop the Phoenix Force from making the strain on Jean much greater, attacking her in ways that break her heart multiple times. It hits harder than any attack by Juggernaut or any snide comment by Emma Frost ever could.

It's because those attacks have such a dramatic impact that Phoenix Resurrection: The Return of Jean Grey #5 carries with it a unique weight that goes beyond just bringing Jean Grey back to the world of the living after 14 years. The way in which she struggles against the Phoenix Force and the way she confronts the many tragedies of her story resonates on so many levels. Those hit hard by her death 14 years ago are hit just as hard by her resurrection.

That, more than anything, is the primary appeal of Jean Grey's story. Whether through death or resurrection, hers is one that evokes all the right emotions. It goes beyond survival and tragedy. It even goes beyond the recurring themes of absolute power and its corrupting effects. Jean Grey, even at her most powerful, embodies the humanity that is so championed throughout the over-arching themes of the X-men. In both life and in death, Jean's ability to channel that humanity is what makes her so endearing.

Her death in the original Dark Phoenix Saga years ago remains one of the most defining moments in the history the X-men. Her return to life in the pages of Phoenix Resurrection: The Return of Jean Grey may not achieve the same iconic status, but Rosenberg still succeeds in capturing the themes that made that moment so special. Coming back from the dead is so common in comics that it's practically required for heroes of a certain status. Coming back in a way that still hits with such heart and rewards the patience of fans is a true accomplishment.

Final Score: 9 out of 10

Reborn and Revitalized: Phoenix Resurrection: The Return Of Jean Grey #1

The following is my review of Phoenix Resurrection: The Return Of Jean Grey #1, which was posted on PopMatters.com.

A lot can change in the span of a year, especially in a world full of cosmic cubes, infinity gems, and deals with Mephisto. One year, Wolverine is an Avenger, Spider-Man is married, and the Fantastic Four are still relevant. The next, Captain America is a Hydra agent, Thor is Jane Foster, and Spider-Man is sleeping on his Aunt May's couch again. Things change very fast, very quickly in the Marvel universe, often within the span of a single year. Go back even farther, say 14 years ago, and it may as well be a different multiverse.

That's because 14 years is how long Jean Grey, the non-time displaced version of her, has been dead. In December of 2003, during the tail end of Grant Morrison's famous run on New X-men, she dies at the ends of Xorn, who is actually Magneto, but is also an imposter. At that time, land lines are still common, YouTube doesn't exist, and people are actually excited about the release of a new Fantastic Four movie.

So much changes within the real world that it's impossible to overstate how different things are in the comics. The fact that Bucky Barnes comes back to life before Jean Grey in that span says a lot about the impact of her death. However, her being Jean Grey, the same character who attracts cosmic forces with a propensity for resurrection, it was only a matter of when and not if she returned.

After 14 years, multiple crossover events, multiple relaunches, and a takeover by Disney, the wait is over. Jean Grey is finally set to return in Phoenix Resurrection: The Return Of Jean Grey #1. After so much time and so many complications along the way, Matthew Rosenberg has both a privileged and responsibility in crafting this narrative. He gets to bring Jean Grey back, but he faces a challenge in doing it in a way that doesn't feel predictable or contrived, which is no easy feat for a character associated with a cosmic force.

His approach is one that relies heavily on mystery elements while also bringing every major X-men team into the picture. From a situational standpoint, that makes sense. Jean Grey coming back, and likely bringing a cosmic force with her, is bound to require more than a few veteran X-men. However, Rosenberg doesn't throw everything into the story all at once. That may work for the Cables, Deadpools, and Wolverine knock-offs of the Marvel universe, but Jean's story requires a different kind of nuance.

A big part of Jean's appeal, both as a character and as a catalyst for a major story, is how her stories are built around significant emotional undertones. The original Phoenix Saga itself is an emotionally-driven story, one that has a major impact because it makes the losses and emotions feel genuine. Phoenix Resurrection: The Return Of Jean Grey #1 already sets Jean up for a similar impact. While the situation is very different compared to previous stories, but when a character has been dead for over a decade, that's understandable and somewhat necessary.

This is where the mystery elements of Phoenix Resurrection: The Return Of Jean Grey #1 really shine. In the same way it avoids putting the X-men at ground zero of another Phoenix-powered clash, it establishes a series of unknowns that puts Jean and the X-men in a volatile situation. It doesn't start off with a cosmic bird, but it doesn't take long to hint at one. Even with those unknown, it makes clear that the X-men's path is eventually going to find its way to Jean.

Like going up the first steep hill of a roller coaster, it's fairly obvious what Jean and the X-men are about to face. Anyone who knows anything about the stories surrounding Jean and the X-men can sense it, but the subtleties of the story still find a way to make it enticing. Rosenberg doesn't try to use old formulas that involve cocoons, time travel, or evil clones. His approach is different, even if the themes are similar. That big drop at the top of the hill is still coming and it promises to be every bit as thrilling and dramatic as other Jean Grey stories before it.

Beyond just setting the stage for the X-men's reunion with their beloved friend, Phoenix Resurrection: The Return Of Jean Grey #1 also takes the time to acknowledge classic elements of Jean's story. There are references to the original Phoenix Saga, End of Greys, and even some of the lesser-known aspects of Jean's history. There's a sense that both the past and the present matter, which is difficult to do when it's just so much easier to use time machines, clones, and Skrull agents.

In a sense, the outcome of the story is already established. Phoenix Resurrection: The Return Of Jean Grey #1 makes clear that this isn't going to be a tease like Phoenix Endsong. Jean Grey is, indeed, coming back. It's just a matter of how volatile, dramatic, and impactful that return will be. Any story involving Jean Grey is bound to be emotional to some extent and Rosenberg puts everything in place for those emotions to shine.

The final page, alone, effectively guarantees that hearts will be broken and spirits will be wounded. The presence of Jean's loved ones, of which she has many, also guarantees that the drama will be intense. The narrative sets all these important themes up without utilizing a single clone or cocoon, which counts as an accomplishment.

While these nuances work beautifully for anyone familiar with Jean Grey's history and the dramatic undertones that her stories inspire, there are times when her prolonged absence hinders some of the impact. When a character is dead for so long and the world changes so much, it's hard to fit them into the bigger picture. In a sense, Phoenix Resurrection: The Return Of Jean Grey #1 is starting behind the curve in terms of creating impact on the larger Marvel universe. After multiple civil wars, a Skrull invasion, and a take-over by Hydra, Jean's return almost feels out of place.

However, even though the Marvel universe has gotten used to functioning without her, Phoenix Resurrection: The Return Of Jean Grey #1 does plenty to generate excitement for her overdue return. Her being dead for so long may have limited her impact, but it does little to diminish her place in the X-men and the Marvel pantheon of heroes. She still is, even after 14 years, the heart of the X-men. The team just isn't the same without her. No amount of time travelers or alternate universe versions can change that.

Final Score: 8 out of 10

Wars of Hearts, Minds, and Psychics: Jean Grey #8

The following is my review of Jean Grey #8, which was posted on PopMatters.com.

In a perfect world, a friendly rivalry brings out the best and worst of two characters. Since no world is perfect, especially one that has Loki and shape-shifting aliens in it, that kind of friendliness is next to impossible. In the Marvel universe, rivalries between heroes and villains are widespread, common, and a vital part of its mythos. There isn't too much complexity in the sense that the dynamics are fairly clear-cut. The two characters are on opposing sides. They hate each other and want their side to triumph. Anyone who watches professional wrestling can understand that.

It's only when two heroes develop a rivalry that the narrative gains a layer of dynamics that can't be fleshed out by seeing Captain America fight the Red Skull for the billionth time. These rivalries often pit two characters who are on the same side against each other, sometime to the point where they undermine their own heroic efforts. For Jean Grey and Emma Frost, that point is far behind them and they've long since entered uncharted territory of bitterness.

These aren't just two characters who occasionally disagree with how to conduct themselves as superheroes. These are two characters who have actually hurt each other, physically and emotionally, on multiple levels. Going back to the early days of the Phoenix Saga during Chris Claremont's run on Uncanny X-men to Grant Morrison's run on New X-men, these two have a long and varied list of reasons to hate each other.

Even though Jean Grey ends up dead, there's a sense that these two are destined to clash again. With Jean Grey #8, the beginning of the Psych War arc, the wait is finally over. Dennis Hopeless pits a teenage, time-displaced Jean Grey against Emma Frost at a time when she shows little hesitation in sparking wars between the X-men and Inhumans. It may not involve the same dramatic elements that Morrison or Claremont utilized, but the stakes feel every bit as high.

From the beginning, Jean Grey #8 follows similar themes that Hopeless has established in previous issues. The time-displaced Jean Grey, in her effort to prepare for the Phoenix Force, finds herself in a situation she's completely unprepared to handle. Her being a teenager gives her a pass to some extent, but that only goes so far when the stakes are cosmic and the egos involved include Emma Frost. There's really no amount of preparation that can prepare anyone for that kind of struggle, regardless of how much time travel is involved.

In a sense, Jean is in a unique position to offer commentary on the events that led to her most recent death. Her venture into the mind of Emma Frost, her future rival, sends her on an abridged journey through those moments, eventually culminating in a direct encounter with the former White Queen during a lurid, yet familiar situation. It's the context of that encounter, though, that establishes the stakes and the drama for the Psyche War arc.

It's a rare, but increasingly common theme throughout her solo series. The time-displaced Jean ventures into a world that's destined to kill her, but with a different set of perceptions, compared to her older self. While being an immature teenager does plenty to skew anyone's perceptions, it still has the advantage of lacking the baggage of the older Jean Grey that perished. That's an important factor for the Morrison-era X-men because that same baggage played a significant role in causing her death.

Hopeless doesn't ignore those factors as the time-displaced Jean traverses Emma's mind and the memorable moments from the world of New X-men. In a sense, that baggage takes form and substance with the ghost of the older Jean Grey. The previous issue establishes her presence with the teenage Jean and not in a very friendly way either. The two Jean Greys from two different eras are constantly at odds, arguing and yelling at one another in various moments that would strain anyone's mental health.

That constant clash, which becomes a lot more heated as they fight through Emma Frost's mind, establishes an important distinction for Psyche War and for Jean Grey's ongoing story, as a whole. The Jean Grey of the past is still very much at odds with the Jean Grey of the future and not just because she ends up dead. Even though both Jean Greys share the same goal in avoiding the fate of the Phoenix Force, they're not on the same page in terms of methods. If anything, they trip over one another in their conflicting efforts.

It raises the stakes in the ongoing struggle while also revealing how ill-prepared Jean Grey is for the challenge before her. It gives the impression that she has never had a true grasp of the Phoenix, despite her being its most iconic host, going back to the Claremont era. It also makes the role Emma Frost plays feel more personal, especially as it sets the stage for a more heated battle that won't just involve psychic attacks.

The situation, context, and tensions are all there for Jean Grey and Emma Frost. The journey to their clash never gets derailed or subverted. However, even with so many critical ingredients, the lack of heated drama leaves the overall story in Jean Grey #8 feeling muted. While it doesn't try to fight the entire battle between these intensely passionate characters all at once, it stops short of probing the open wounds between them.

They never berate each other over past failures. There's no heated exchange on how Emma affected Jean's marriage to Cyclops. There are all sorts of emotional sub-plots that didn't find their way into the conflict. While the door is left open for these sub-plots, the story still lacks the connecting emotions that give all its potent ingredients the necessary impact.

Psych War still has plenty of potential to make this latest clash between Jean Grey and Emma Frost as dramatic as it deserves to be. Jean Grey #8 is just the first step in that effort. These are two of the most powerful psychics in the Marvel universe and they just happen to have a long list of reasons to resent each other. Anything less than an omega-level clash just won't cut it.

Final Score: 6 out of 10

Sexy Side-Project "The Red Queen Chronicles: The Divine" is LIVE!

If there’s one thing I’ve learned since I started writing sexy side-projects, it’s that fans want their favorite characters to hook up with all sorts of characters. It doesn’t matter that it’s ridiculously non-canon. It doesn’t matter that it would never happen in the books either. Fans just love seeing certain characters get sexier than they’re allowed to be.

Since I started my “New Red Queen” series, I’ve gotten all sorts of suggestions for sexy hook-ups. Given that Mary Jane Watson, with all her amazing sex appeal, is at the center of the story, I expected to get plenty lurid requests for her. However, I didn’t expect to get so many for another fiery redhead, namely Jean Grey.

Perhaps I shouldn’t be too surprised, given all the uncut scenes I’ve done with her in my X-men Supreme series. After the events of “The Red Queen Chronicles: The Phoenix,” though, I’ve opened the proverbial floodgates. I’ve effectively unshackled Jean Grey-Summers from the traditional confines that has kept her fully clothed for too damn long. Apparently, there are a lot of Jean Grey fans who have been waiting for this sort of thing. Surprised or not, I’m going to run with it.

That’s why I’m proud to announce another sexy side-project of the most uncanny kind. It involves Jean Grey hooking up with someone she rarely encounters in the comics and being unapologetically sexy about it. She married Cyclops and flirted with Wolverine, but now that she’s the Black Queen of the Hellfire Club, she’s going to set her sights higher. By that, I mean she’s looking for some truly divine sexiness from someone who just happens to have a big movie coming out.

Yes, I’m referring to the God of Thunder himself, Thor. He and Jean Grey have rarely shared a scene together in the comics, but that doesn’t matter in the world of the Red Queen Chronicles. Through this ambitious, but straightforward one-shot, these two characters you didn’t know you wanted to see hook up are going to get frisky. If this doesn’t get you excited for both the “Thor: Ragnarok” movie or “X-men: Dark Phoenix,” I don’t know what will.

The Red Queen Chronicles: The Divine

As always, I encourage everyone to provide feedback and leave comments. I can’t promise I’ll pursue every sexy suggestion, whether it involves Jean Grey, Mary Jane Watson, or Squirrel Girl. I’m always open to new ideas, though, especially the sexy kind.

Rising Ashes From Two Eras: Generations: Phoenix & Jean Grey #1

The following is my review of Generations: Phoenix and Jean Grey #1, which was posted on PopMatters.com.

It's usually a sign when a certain character becomes best known for dying, not staying dead, and having large chunks of their history retconned and rewritten. It's rarely a good sign, but a select few can manage more balanced results. Jean Grey functions better than most with that kind of legacy. She dies, comes back to life, dies again, gets cloned, travels through time, and somehow finds a way to deal with a cosmic force. That may very well be another sign, but one that speaks to the strength of her character.

In a sense, Jean Grey is one of those characters who's always torn between two opposing forces. Sometimes it involves her being on the wrong end of a love triangle. Other times, it involves wanting to forge her own path while still confronting the many conflicts in her history. She knows she ends up dead, an icon to some and a walking resurrection joke to others. Since her arrival from the past in All-New X-men, Jean's story seems to fluctuate from one conflicting force to another.

One day, she's trying everything she can to avoid the same obstacles that doomed her adult self. The next, she's determined to face them. Given that she's a teenager and teenagers are known to have erratic methods in dealing with problems, this is understandable. It also makes Jean Grey's story somewhat chaotic. There's not a clear understanding of what she hopes to accomplish, so long as she's stuck in the future with the rest of the time-displaced X-men. Unlike her teammates, though, she can't reach out to her older self for guidance.

Now, thanks to space-time machinations for Marvel Generations, a teenage Jean Grey finally gets the chance to interact with her older self and learn from the icon herself. What plays out in Marvel Generations: Phoenix and Jean Grey #1 is not an illusion. It's not some twisted memory either. This is the real Jean Grey of X-men lore who goes onto devour a star, cheat death, get clones, and inspire any number of fights between Cyclops and Wolverine. It's as big a moment as a teenage girl can ever face outside her prom night.

Cullen Bunn and RB Silva don't just rip a teenage Jean Grey out of the present and stick her into some contrived point in the ever-changing, constantly-reconnected timeline of the X-men. Bunn shows that he's done his homework by putting the young Jean Grey in a specific moment within the original Phoenix Saga between that ran between Uncanny X-men #101 and Uncanny X-men #138. It's the kind of attention to detail that Chris Claremont himself would be proud of.

In a sense, it's the most optimal moment Jean and her older self could've chosen for their respective stories. Within the context of the original Phoenix Saga, it's that brief period where Jean had control over the Phoenix Force. She isn't corrupted, twisted, or devouring entire star systems just to see what it feels like. She's still very human in her perspective, but vulnerable to the corruption that comes with the god-like power of the Phoenix Force.

It's a narrow window for her teenage self to explore, but one that's vital within the context of her own story. It provides a clear and effective link between the conflict unfolding in Jean's solo series and the events unfolding in Marvel Generations. Once again, Jean faces the prospect of dealing with the Phoenix Force again.

She knows as well as anyone who tries to follow convoluted timelines and never-ending death/rebirth plots that it's bound to cause cosmic headaches for everyone. In order to deal with it, she needs to learn about it. She'll find no better source than this particular version of herself at this particular point in her history. Even a cosmic version of Wikipedia can't provide information that comprehensive.

As a result, Marvel Generations: Phoenix and Jean Grey #1 takes on a very personal undertone. Bunn dedicates significant parts of the narrative to exploring the inner conflict within the teenage Jean Grey. She recognizes from the beginning that this is an important opportunity, one that she can't afford to pass up. She needs to learn everything she can about the Phoenix Force. On top of that, she has spoilers to the tragedy that lies just ahead for her adult counterpart.

Despite all the implications this meeting has for both characters, Bunn resists the urge to turn teenage Jean Grey into Marty McFly from Back to the Future in that she doesn't mindlessly mess with the timeline. She actually establishes a personal connection with her older self. She doesn't attempt to deceive her or impede her. She presents herself as a friend and ally. It may seem redundant since they're the same person, but it serves an important purpose.

By becoming an ally, teen Jean gets a chance to learn about her older self outside the tragedy, heartache, and retcons that exist only in the memories of her fellow X-men. She sees that, like her, the older Jean Grey is also struggling to make sense of this cosmic power. However, her older self clearly has a different perspective of that power, which she eagerly demonstrates in ways that maximizes the visual appeal of Silva's art.

It leads to a cosmic clash between the Phoenix and Galactus. It's the kind of clash that's inherently epic on paper, but easy to mess up in a story. Bunn achieves a fitting balance of sorts, giving Jean and her adult counterpart a chance to shine and learn from each other. In doing so, it sets up a unique moment between two characters from different periods in a vast mythos. That moment carries with it a dramatic impact that maximizes the opportunity that Marvel Generations creates.

It's a moment that Marty McFly botched in Back to the Future. For Jean Grey, it's a moment of clarity that takes place at the best possible time. That's not just an outside observation either. The Watcher himself shows up to let her know just how important her decision is in the grand scheme of the never-ending chaos that is the Marvel universe. She has a chance to make the easy decision that will most definitely incur all sorts of complications and consequences. She ends up making a different choice. The fact she makes that choice as a teenager, whose natural inclinations gravitate towards easy solutions bereft of consequence, speaks to the strength of her character.

Marvel Generations: Phoenix and Jean Grey #1 is in a position to literally rewrite the history of one of the X-men's most iconic stories. It's also in a position to add even greater complications to a story that has had more than its share since the 1980s. Bunn doesn't draw the ire of Chris Claremont, nor does he completely nullify the potential of the moment. The Jean Grey from the past and the Jean Grey from the present both get something out of their encounter. It's not the same as a retcon or a time paradox, but it has a genuine impact and that impact feels relevant to both characters.

There's still a sense that teenage Jean didn't do as much as she could've. It could be argued that she didn't do as much as she should've either. However, what she ends up doing is probably the most responsible decision she could've made in that situation. For a teenager constantly looking for ways to avoid the destiny that fate has laid out for her, it speaks volumes to the strength of her character. Even if the circumstances of Marvel Generations are unclear and the overall impact is uncertain, Jean Grey shows why, no matter which era she's in, she's still the heart of the X-men.

Final Score: 9 out of 10

Before The Ashes: Jean Grey #1

The following is my review of Jean Grey #1, which was posted on PopMatters.com.

When she's not dying, coming back from the dead, or being on the wrong end of a love triangle, Jean Grey is one of those characters whose story often gets defined by others. This is understandable because in many respects, she's the heart and soul of the X-men. She embodies the hope, drive, and passion that guides them. She makes such strong connections to those around her, be they teammates or rivals, that it's hard for her to exist in isolation. From the famous Phoenix Saga to her most recent death in Planet X, she serves as an emotional catalyst for the X-men as a whole.

While this benefits the X-men, it also means she rarely gets a chance to grow on her own. Her story is often too tied to those of her teammates that she just can't forge her own path. Even after she and the original five X-men come to the future in All-New X-men, she continues to follow the path of her team.

It almost seems like a gross oversight that Jean Grey has never gotten her own solo series. Other characters such as Doop, Pixie, and even her arch-rival Emma Frost got a solo series at one point. Overdue or not, Dennis Hopeless and Victor Ibanez use Jean Grey #1 to finally give her a chance to tell her own story.

It's a story that emerges out of unfamiliar circumstances for Jean. She isn't just a teammate and guiding force anymore. She's the leader of a team that's taking guidance from Magneto, of all people. By X-men standards, these circumstances couldn't be more unfamiliar without the influence of the Cosmic Cube.

Even so, Jean's personal agenda is the same as it was in the early issues of All-New X-men. She seeks to avoid a future where she ends up dead, resurrected, dead again, and a topic of awkward conversation between Wolverine and Cyclops. Hopeless makes the story personal by exploring Jean's mentality and personal sentiments. There have been plenty of scenes with Jean lamenting, fighting, and complaining about her situation. The idea of her just taking a moment to process feels both novel and overdue.

That's not to say she's able to process everything. She's still a time-displaced teenage girl who learns that she dies multiple times, may or may not have destroyed a planet, and has at least one evil clone. Not even the mental fortitude of Reed Richards can process something like that, but that helps mold the overall tone of the story. Jean Grey, despite all her overwhelming burdens, is all too human when it comes to matters of life, death, rebirth, and evil clones.

From the beginning, Jean Grey #1 emphasizes Jean's humanity. Those not familiar with her humanity or the many obstacles, cosmic and non-cosmic alike, that strain it get a few major highlights of her story. The ones that stick out most for Jean, as a character, are those surrounding her multiple deaths and various resurrections. This is where Hopeless establishes a critical theme for her and the series, as a whole.

Jean Grey doesn't just want to avoid becoming the woman who ends up dying multiple times and inspiring multiple retcons. She actively hates that person. She doesn't see her future self as someone she aspires to be. She sees her as a painful reminder, one that actually gives her nightmares. Granted, it is a bit melodramatic in that it overlooks a lot of the good her future self did, but she's a brooding teenager so it's perfectly appropriate.

On top of these musings and dreads, Jean gets a chance to be a typical hero. Whether by coincidence or cosmic karma, she's having lunch in Kyoto, Japan just as the Wrecking Crew is doing a heist. It's admittedly contrived. Even those involved admit that. It also gives Jean a chance to show just how powerful she has become. It emphasizes that, despite how much she hates her future self, she's still a hero at heart.

The perspective and style in Jean Grey #1 feels very personal. Even if the action is predictable, Ibanez's art makes it flashy. It also sets the stage for the over-arching narrative that puts Jean on a collision course with the Phoenix Force. Given the status of the Phoenix Saga as one of the greatest X-men stories ever told, it raises both the stakes and the risks.

It's an unfortunate byproduct of such a dramatic and iconic story. Any effort to expand or explore that story tends to undermine, complicate, or convolute it to some degree. Sometimes it's for the better, as Chris Claremont proved with Inferno. Sometimes, it just comes off feeling too forced, as proven in Avengers vs. X-men. However, in the case of Jean Grey, it's a story that cannot and should not be avoided.

The foundation is already in place. The events of The Trial of Jean Grey proved that what the Phoenix did and what it can potentially do is still relevant. Jean, despite her best efforts, cannot avoid this part of her past and future. During the battle with the Wrecking Crew, she gets a harsh, but overdue reminder that her story and that of the Phoenix Force is inextricably linked.

While some details of the narrative in Jean Grey #1 are still contrived, the underlying themes and overall tones remain strong. They carry the necessary dramatic weight that is so critical to any story involving Jean Grey and the Phoenix Force. Hopeless crafts a story that makes it easy to sympathize with Jean. He makes it easy to root for her. For a character who is often the victim of so many dramatic tragedies and insipid love triangles, it's a welcome and overdue change.

The series still has a lot to prove. The prospect of more complications with the Phoenix Force and even more teenage melodrama ensures Jean Grey has many opportunities to falter. Whether or not Hopeless and Ibanez can avoid that cosmic trap remains to be seen, but they still succeed in reminding everyone why Jean Grey is the heart of the X-men.

Final Score: 7 out of 10

X-men Supreme Issue 141: Outer Limits Part 5 is LIVE!

Mark your calendars folks because today is one of those days that’ll go down as a critical moment in the history of X-men Supreme. This fanfiction series has grown and evolved so much over the years, but there are still a handful of defining moments that have helped shape it. Moments like the uprising on Genosha, the election of Senator Robert Kelly, the devastation wrought by the Legacy Virus, the X-men’s first encounter with the Shi’ar, and the departure of Charles Xavier are among those moments. Now, with the final issue of the Outer Limits arc, X-men Supreme is poised to forge another one of those moments.

This isn’t a case where the end of an arc either maintains the status quo or just keeps things from getting too chaotic. There’s a place for stories like that. The X-men saving Dazzler or catching up with old allies like Thunderbird are important towards crafting the overall narrative surrounding this fanfiction series. However, there are times when that narrative needs to be disrupted. It doesn’t always have to be harsh. It’s not like the recent disruptions in the X-men comics, which have led to the deaths of Wolverine, Professor Xavier, Jean Grey, and Cyclops. This disruption is going to impact X-men Supreme in another way.

They’ve been fighting another cosmic battle against an enemy that threatens so much more than human/mutant peace. The Shi’ar Empire, under the tyrannical rule of D’Ken, is prepared to unleash the full power of the M’Krann Crystal on every mind in the universe. This is a war that has been going on for far longer than the X-men have existed. Parts of this war, however, are already tied to them. The M’Krann Crystal was the catalyst that made Jean Grey the host to the Phoenix Force. It also drew the Shi’ar back to Earth, something that they’ve avoided for reasons that aren’t entirely clear yet. Now, with the revelation that Lilandra Neramani is the rightful heir to the Shi’ar throne, the X-men must end this war once and for all.

However, as has been the case in other moments in X-men Supreme, victory will come at a price. The X-men already paid a high price for their victory over the Mutant Liberation Front, which resulted in Polaris losing her life. They’ve endured other losses as well, including their former teammate, Thunderbird. What kind of price will they pay this time? What kind of impact will Outer Limits have on the X-men as a whole? What will this mean for the future of X-men Supreme?

These are all questions that the final issue of Outer Limits is prepared to answer, at least in part. I know I say this a lot, but make no mistake. The impact of this arc will have major ramifications for X-men Supreme moving forward. There have already been developments in this arc that will affect the X-men moving forward. Some will be beneficial. Others will be a bit harder to judge. In any case, the course of X-men Supreme is about to take a major turn. This final issue will be the catalyst. The issues that follow will set a new course for this fanfiction series. So if you only read one issue of X-men Supreme this year, make it this one.

X-men Supreme Issue 141: Outer Limits Part 5

It’s not easy crafting moments like this in X-men Supreme. They take a long time to unfold. It often requires me to set up long-ranged stories that span multiple volumes. Remember, I set up the big revelation that Mystique was Rose back in the Overlord arc in X-men Supreme Volume 2: War Powers. There are other moments I have in the works that have roots in previous volumes. I want these moments to have the kind of impact that X-men fans will appreciate. It’s part of what makes this fanfiction series so vast. As such, I want to make sure these moments are as awesome as possible. To do this, I need help from X-men fans of all kinds. Please send me feedback on the moment that unfolds here in Outer Limits and in other arcs throughout X-men Supreme. Either post it in the issue or contact me directly. Either way is fine and I’m always happy to chat. Until next time, take care and best wishes. Excelsior!

Jack

X-men Supreme Issue 141: Outer Limits Part 5 PREVIEW!

Big moments lead to big changes. Big changes lead to upheavals. Upheavals lead to new conflicts. That’s how the X-men Supreme fanfiction series has evolved over the years. Small moments lead to big changes. Sometimes it happens quickly. Sometimes it takes time. There have been many changes with Genosha alone. It began with Magneto leading an invasion of the country in Uprising. He then took control of it in Overlord, only to lose control (and his mind) in Time Bomb. Genosha still factors heavily on the landscape of X-men Supreme, but it all started with that one big moment during Uprising.

The X-men encountered something similar with the Shi’ar. It began way back in X-men Volume 3: War Powers. In X-men Supreme Issue 46: Paradise Mystery, Cyclops and Wolverine uncovered a crashed Shi’ar ship that hinted at an alien agenda. That agenda has unfolded gradually over the course of multiple volumes, but it’s only here in X-men Supreme Volume 6: Liberation Decimation that the scope and scale of that agenda finally unfolds.

Unbeknownst to the rest of the world in X-men Supreme, there’s an alien war going on with the Shi’ar Empire. For years, it has been at the mercy of D’ken, a cruel and ruthless tyrant who came to power in a harsh, warlike culture that values strength through war. In the X-men comics and cartoons, there’s not much depth to D’ken. I knew that if I was going to use him in X-men Supreme, I needed to dig a little deeper. Now, as the X-men confront him in the waning moments of the Outer Limits arc, the full scope and scale of his plan is revealed.

D’ken may be a tyrant, but he’s also very much a result of endless war and hatred. In this fanfiction series, he’s just seen one too many bloody clashes. He’s so broken and hardened that no amount of bloodshed phases him. No amount of cruelty is too excessive. In many respects, he is the ultimate byproduct of all the hate and conflict that the X-men fight to prevent. If the X-men fail, then someone like D’ken is the result.

The stakes literally couldn’t be higher. Outer Limits is poised to become one of the biggest arcs to date for the X-men Supreme fanfiction series. It’s an arc that will have long-lasting impacts moving forward. However, that all assumes the X-men will be able to stop D’ken from usurping the minds of every sentient being in the universe. With the power of the M’krann Crystal and the entire Shi’ar Empire at his disposal, that’s easier said than done. So this final issue of Outer Limits is not one you’ll want to miss. As always, I’ve prepared a preview of the final showdown in this cosmic conflict.

“Are you ready, Jean?”

“Yes…I’m ready,” she said upon parting from Cyclops.

“Do what you have to do,” he told her, “I’ll be with you every step of the way.”

“As will I,” said Professor Xavier, “Now hurry! The crystal is destabilizing rapidly!”

Having made her fateful choice, Phoenix turned away from her lover and her mentor. She pushed aside all lingering fear as she approached the glowing crystal. Its energy kept radiating at an increasingly volatile pace. This energy soon mixed with her white flames, causing them to grow to a level that soon engulfed the shining structure. As her flames grew, she slowly rose up. In the process her body took on a new fiery form. Using this form, she entered the crystal. Within moments, it changed colors. It became bright orange, as if it was on fire.

The powerful relic was undergoing a great change. Cyclops and Xavier could feel it. The X-men and the Imperial Guard felt it as well. The massive conduits feeding into the crystal sparked erratically. Power lines were severed and lights flickered as the energy within the chamber swirled rapidly. It was as if the energy the crystal was radiating was turning around. The white flames of the Phoenix swirled with this energy, engulfing the M’krann Crystal in a column of cosmic grandeur. The only one not taken by this sight was D’ken.

“YOU ARROGANT HUMANS!” he exclaimed, “YOU’VE KILLED US ALL! SHE’S UPSET THE POWER FLOW! SHE’LL RIP THE ENTIRE UNIVERSE APART!”

“She knows what she’s doing,” said Cyclops, never taking his eyes off the crystal, “She’s cleaning up your mess whether you like it or not.”

“NO! I WON’T ALLOW IT!” seethed the Emperor.

D’ken finally wrestled free from Mastermind’s grip, kicking him the head shoving him off like the feeble old human he was. Now free, he set his sights on reclaiming what he worked so hard to attain.

“IMPERIAL GUARD, HEED MY CALL! COME TO ME! SLAY THESE HUMANS AND HELP ME EXTRACT THE PHOENIX FORCE!”

Down below on the lower levels, Gladiator heard this order. He along with Starbolt, Smasher, Hussar, Flashfire, Neutron, and Oracle were obligated to fulfill it. They turned back towards the X-men, who were prepared to fight again.

“Seriously? You’re going to listen to that psychotic nut job?” scoffed Rogue.

“You heard what the Phoenix said! You must let her do this!” urged Storm.

“What your friend says does not matter. We only heed the emperor,” said Hussar.

“No matter what we think, we must obey D’ken,” said Neutron.

“Even if it means risking the entire universe? If so that’s pretty bloody stupid,” said Psylocke.

“Our loyalty is absolute,” said Gladiator, clenching his fists in frustration, “We must listen to the emperor.”

“Guess that means it’s time for round two!” snarled Wolverine.

The X-men were prepared to fight the Imperial Guard once more. They had to keep them away from the crystal so Phoenix could work. Wolverine drew his claws and prepared to deliver the first blow. Then a new presence entered the chamber and stopped everything.

“Halt!” said the commanding voice of Lilandra Neramani, “By the order of the Shi’ar Imperium, you are to stand down immediately!”

“Whoa…Miss Neremani is cutting this close,” said Iceman.

“Does this mean what I think it means?” asked Colossus.

“What are you humans babbling about? Who dares mock the authority of our emperor?” said Smasher as he and the other guardsmen turned around.

“I dare! As is my right under the bylaws of the royal bloodline!” she said strongly, “Moreover, I have something that officially usurps the authority of D’ken.”

Lilandra boldly stepped into the chamber, walking with a poise worthy of an empress. Behind her emerged Beast and an army of Warlock drones, each heavily armed and ready for battle. However, they did not fire a single shot. Instead, Beast casually walked up behind Lilandra and handed her a decorative metal scepter. It had golden feathers at the top and a string of Shi’ar symbols lining the sides. When she held it up, the Imperial Guard immediately fell back.

“The Staff of the Majestrix!” gasped Oracle, “She wields it!”

“That’s what it looks like? Remy’s seen fancier jewelry at Mardi Gras,” said Gambit.

“Be kind, X-men. This relic that we went to such lengths to retrieve is of great importance,” explained Beast, “Now that Lilandra wields it, the reign of D’ken is officially over.”

“It should not be possible!” said Starbolt, “The Staff is linked to the emperor! No one, even a blood relative, should be able to even lift it!”

“The Staff of the Majestrix is capable of processing much more than who wears the crown,” Beast went on, “Written in it are the bylaws of the Shi’ar Imperium. These laws are as old as the empire itself. It has noticed the actions D’ken has recently undertaken.”

“As such it made the decision long ago. It needed only a piece of the bloodline to make it official,” added Lilandra, “I am that piece. The Staff has accepted me. As such, I am now the rightful ruler of the Shi’ar Empire. You know what that entails.”

The Imperial Guard exchanged glances. This was an unforeseen move, yet it came as a relief in some ways. They too had seen D’ken’s tyranny inflict untold damage on their empire. Their loyalty prevented them from ever having any second thoughts. Now a new empress had ascended. This meant their obligations to D’ken were nullified.

“What is thy bidding, my empress?” said Gladiator as he loyally knelt before her.

“Damn! So much for round two,” said Wolverine as he withdrew his claws.

“You’ll pick another fight soon enough, Wolverine,” teased Storm.

“I think we’ve all had enough fighting. It stops today!” said Lilandra firmly, “You can begin the rebuilding process by standing aside and letting the Phoenix Force undo the damage wrought by my brother.”

“If that is your wish, then so be it,” said Oracle as she and the others knelt as well.

The X-men let out a sigh of relief. They would no longer have to oppose the Imperial Guard. It meant they could catch their breath, if only briefly. The end of D’ken’s madness was not yet complete.

“The antennas on both worlds are malfunctioning on every possible level,” said Beast as he joined up with the X-men, “May I assume D’ken’s efforts were thwarted?”

“Our brains out melting through our ears, so I guess that part has been stopped,” said Shadowcat, “But it’s not over yet! We’ve still got a cosmic-level problem on our hands.”

“And we can’t do anything to help at this point,” added Rogue, “It’s all on Jean’s shoulders now. Best we can do is watch and hope.”

“And without popcorn no less,” said Iceman.

Everyone turned their gaze back to the M’krann Crystal. Now that the Imperial Guard were under Lilandra’s rule, D’ken was utterly out of resources. His bold ambition to end all conflict was over. He saw Lilandra enter from below. When his Imperial Guard knelt to her it was like being punched in the gut. He had nothing with which to fight.

“My own blood…betraying me once again!” seethed D’ken, “DAMN YOU, LILANDRA! DAMN YOU ALL!”

“I’d behave if I were you. I don’t think your people will rally behind you after what you’ve put them through,” said Professor Xavier.

“If you’re lucky, they’ll still have a world to rebuild once the Phoenix Force is finished,” said Cyclops.

There’s a lot at stake here. There are a lot of personal and practical upheavals to deal with. At the very least, these upheavals don’t involve sterilization plots or time travelers. That alone should give X-men Supreme some appeal to X-men fans. I know I joke about that a lot these days, but it’s no laughing matter for many X-men fans. The current comics have killed off some of the X-men’s greatest characters and gone to great lengths to marginalize the X-men from the greater Marvel universe. I want X-men Supreme to act as a reprieve of sorts and I want to make it as awesome as possible. As such, I strongly encourage reviews and feedback. Please take the time to contact me with your remarks or post your comments directly in the issue. I’m always happy to chat. Until next time, take care and best wishes. Excelsior

Jack

X-men Supreme Issue #140: Outer Limits Part 4 is LIVE!

As mutants, the X-men are a product of evolution. Being a product of evolution means adapting to new conditions. The X-men Supreme fanfiction series has forced them to adapt in a great many ways to say the least. First, they had to adapt to their identities being revealed to the public. Later, they adapted to an uprising on Genosha that created the first mutant nation. After that, they had to adapt to Magneto taking over Genosha, only to be driven mad by the Cambrian. The world of X-men Supreme is constantly changing, bringing new challenges and hardships. With Outer Limits, the X-men’s ability to adapt will be pushed even further.

This process began in X-men Supreme Issue 46: Paradise Mystery. It took a major step when Jean Grey gained the power of the Phoenix Force during the Phoenix Saga. Then, the stage was set after the Starcrossed arc when Lilandra Neramani learned of her alien heritage and took on a bold new role as leader of the rebellion against her tyrannical half-brother, D’ken. The cosmic elements of X-men Supreme push the X-men to adapt in some very profound ways. Now that they’re ready to attack D’ken, they can only hope that these ways are sufficient.

That said, not every aspect of this cosmic conflict is a daunting challenge. During the course of the Outer Limits arc, an ailing Charles Xavier caught up with his X-men once more. When this arc began, he was still recovering from a crippling addiction to pain pills that nearly got his X-men killed during their first battle against the Mutant Liberation Front. Now, thanks to Shi’ar technology, he is completely healed and can walk again. Make no mistake. This is a big change for the X-men and it will have lasting implications for X-men Supreme.

Throughout the history of the X-men comics, Charles Xavier’s paralysis has been a plot in constant flux. His physical limitations have historically been a big part of the X-men mythos. In recent years, that component fell to the wayside as he regained the use of his legs. For the past decade or so, his paralysis has become somewhat of an afterthought, even after his death. I always felt that this concept warranted greater exploration. So I intend to make a much bigger deal of it in the X-men Supreme fanfiction series.

However, before Charles Xavier and the X-men can confront these challenges, they must first confront D’ken. It won’t make a difference if Xavier can use his legs again if D’ken is able to tap the power of the M’krann Crystal. His intentions are as bold as they are horrific. He wants to manipulate the minds of every sentient creature in the universe and he’s willing to inflict unspeakable suffering on his own people in order to achieve this. As it stands, the X-men, Lilandra, the Starjammers, and their Shi’ar allies are their only hope of stopping him.

The time has come for the X-men to confront the tyrant that has plagued the Shi’ar for so long. Nothing less than every mind in the universe is at stake. It is as daunting a challenge as the X-men have ever faced. It is, without a doubt, the most important battle the X-men have faced to date in X-men Supreme. This is a battle that X-men fans will not want to miss. Expect a battle like no other as the X-men fight to save the collective minds of a universe.

X-men Supreme Issue 140: Outer Limits Part 4

This kind of cosmic battle brings out the best in X-men. It also presents unique challenges for X-men Supreme. The sci-fi elements of X-men require a different approach compared to those that focus on the human/mutant conflict. It’s a challenge, finding the right balance between all these elements. I want this fanfiction series to capture everything that makes the X-men mythos so awesome. That’s why it’s so vital that I continue to get feedback on my work. I know I say this with every issue, but I mean every word of it. The feedback I get helps make X-men Supreme more awesome. Either post your comments in the issue or contact me directly. I’m always happy to chat. Until next time, take care and best wishes. Excelsior!

Jack

X-men Supreme Issue #140: Outer Limits Part 4 PREVIEW!

It’s another cosmic crisis in the X-men Supreme fanfiction series. The Shi’ar, D’ken, Lilandra, the Phoenix Force, and the Starjammers are front and center. The X-men, as is often the case, are caught in the middle of some cosmic crossfire. This comes at a time when Charles Xavier is ailing, Jean Grey is undergoing more transformations with the Phoenix Force, and Cyclops just discovers that his father is still alive. It’s a lot for any crisis, let alone one with a cosmic scope. It’s hard enough when the X-men have to save a world that hates and fears them. Now, they have to save an entire universe.

Cosmic conflicts are a big part of the X-men’s mythos. Early on in X-men Supreme, I briefly debated on whether I should even bring in cosmic elements like the Shi’ar. That debate didn’t last long. I’ve been reading X-men comics long enough to understand that you can’t capture the full scope of X-men without these cosmic elements. It still took me a while to bring them into the picture. X-men Supreme Issue 46: Paradise Mystery was the first and now it seems so long ago. In Outer Limits, the X-men find themselves in the middle of an interstellar war with the Shi’ar and they’re tyrannical emperor, D’ken.

That war has already brought a lot of upheavals to the X-men. That’s to say nothing about the impact their unexpected space adventure had back on Earth. They left abruptly from Genosha, leaving General Grimshaw and Wanda Maximoff understandably upset and confused. They’ll have to deal with that situation eventually. First, they need to make sure the universe as they know it is still intact.

That’s easier said than done when Emperor D’ken seems intent on killing anyone and anything he has to in order to get what he wants. So what exactly does he want? Why is he butchering his own people? Why is he willing to accept help from someone like Mastermind? Well, there is a reason for that and it’s a reason you won’t find outside the X-men Supreme fanfiction series. I don’t like villains that have no motivation or reason for their behavior. Whether it’s Magneto or Sinister or Cameron Hodge, I’ve always tried to create some context for these characters. With D’ken it’s no different, but it will be challenging.

D’ken is one of those X-men characters that never got a lot of depth. For the most part, he was just a villain that gave the X-men a cosmic level threat to deal with. He’s definitely a cosmic level threat in this fanfiction series, but for very different reasons. The comics and cartoons can only do so much. X-men Supreme can do more. I want to do more. That’s how I intend to make this fanfiction series awesome. It goes beyond his rivalry with Lilandra or the power of the Phoenix Force. There’s a bigger story at work here and it’s going to be an important component of the Outer Limits arc. As always, I’ve prepared a preview that should give a hint as to just how big this story is going to be.

“We’re here, D’ken! I hope you’re as pissed as I am!” yelled a determined Corsair.

“For heaven’s sake, at least try and keep it steady!” shouted Lilandra from the passenger area, “Let’s not do my brother any favors!”

“Sorry Empress, but not this time. If this is D’ken’s endgame, I’m not about to play it safe.”

“Oye, as if my dream of being an astronaut wasn’t tainted enough,” groaned Iceman.

The Starjammer arrived in hostile surroundings just like before. Having been transported to the Shi’ar home world by the Phoenix Force, they caught the Imperial Forces completely by surprise. The massive presence of the Phoenix Force was enough to strike fear even in D’ken’s most hardened forces. Their planetary defenses weren’t even online when Squadron XB-7 began their attack on the palace.

Once they arrived, it didn’t take long for the Imperial Defense Force to strike back. The system was already on high alert. When they arrived over Chandilar, they passed by a series of patrol crafts. Corsair wasted no time taking them out with the ship’s lasers. A number of them broke off and started evasive attacks. Corsair quickly maneuvered the Starjammer around to get a better angle. This caused plenty of discomfort within the ship. It also scrambled the interceptors so that Squadron XB-7 could start taking them out.

“May the strength of the Shi’ar guide our wings!”

This was the primary battle cry that echoed through the Starjammer’s communication systems. Professor Xavier and Beast monitored the attack from a holographic computer located in front of their seats. It showed their position in relation to the rest of the imperial forces. The level of danger was painfully apparent. They were surrounded by a vast armada that guarded both the planet and the moon.

“The attack has begun,” said Xavier, “We’ve achieved the element of surprise.”

“This D’ken guy sounds pretty nasty, but even he can’t account for us having a cosmic bird on our side,” commented Iceman.

“It is a limited, yet vital advantage,” said Beast as he zoomed in on the image of the palace, “The imperial defense forces have picked up on the attack. They’re diverting their attention to the palace as we speak.”

“That means we’ve gained the necessary distraction as well,” said Xavier, “Now we can go after D’ken and the crystal.”

“You mean he’s not on the planet?” said Storm.

“No. Only the dimensional reactors and the primary antenna are on Chandilar,” said Xavier, “D’ken and the M’krann Crystal are on the moon, Chandilar-2.”

“Are you sure of this, Professor?” asked Colossus.

“He’s sure, Colossus. So am I,” said Phoenix, still radiating with white flames.

“I can feel the crystal. It’s entering a critical stage.”

“That means we’re ready to proceed with the next step,” said the Professor as he turned towards the flight deck, “Corsair, pull away from the attack and steady the ship!”

“Damn…just when I was settling in!” said the grizzled pilot.

Corsair gripped the controls and turned the Starjammer around, leaving Squadron XB-7 to take care of the remaining interceptors. They kept attacking the palace, allowing them to slip away from the battle for a moment. Once they were free of enemy fire, the ship leveled off and allowed the X-men to get out of their seats.

As the team got ready for the next phase of this bold mission, Xavier turned his attention to Lilandra. Beast stayed close as well. This was where faith factored into the plan. They each had to believe that they were going to make it through this.

“This is where we part ways, Lilandra,” said Xavier, “Now you’re certain the palace contains this family heirloom you told me about?”

“It was one of the main objectives of our first raid. I know it’s there. Freeing the Starjammers along with D’ken’s many prisoners will help,” assured Lilandra, “Now quit talking as if I’m the one with the harder job.”

“We all have our roles to play. If I could have it another way, we would defeat D’ken together,” he told her.

“It doesn’t matter who brings my brother down. So long as we end this war, I’ll settle for a secondary role. Just be sure you give D’ken my solemn regards.”

“I’ll be sure he gets the message,” Xavier promised, “To aid you in your mission, Beast will stay behind. He is familiar with Shi’ar technology and will utilize the Warlock components we obtained from Genosha. That should make your infiltration into the palace much easier.”

“I’ve put together some creative configurations with help from your fellow scientists. I think they’ll give D’ken’s forces substantial headaches,” said Beast, who had a special handheld computer with Warlock engravings.

“Breaking into the palace isn’t what concerns me. Even after our first attempt failed so miserably,” said Lilandra distantly, “As much as I want this conflict to end, I also want you and your students to come out of it in once piece. Promise me you’ll still be fighting when we rendezvous later on.”

“I promise,” he said with a loving gesture to reinforce his point, “I’ve let my limitations hurt those I love one too many times. I will make this right…for both of us.”

“Then there’s nothing less for me to say other than…be careful.”

Whether the conflicts are cosmic or local in scale, I’m still determined to make every clash in the X-men Supreme fanfiction series as epic as it can be. At a time when the X-men comics are only giving us sterilization and extinction plots, I think it’s important to ensure that X-men Supreme offers something different and not just a series where Jean Grey, Cyclops, Wolverine, and Charles Xavier are alive and no one is time displaced. I want it to stand out for all the right reasons in all the right ways. That’s why it’s so critical that I continue to get feedback for this fanfiction series. Any amount will help, but I can’t make X-men Supreme as awesome as I want to be without support. So please take the time to contact me directly or post your comments directly in the issue. Either way is fine and both ways help. Until next time, take care and best wishes. Excelsior!

Jack

X-men Supreme Issue 139: Outer Limits Part 3 is LIVE!

The biggest changes often have small beginnings. With the X-men, however, it’s hard for anything to be small. Things often escalate quickly and the X-men Supreme fanfiction series is no exception. It’s even harder when it happens within a story involving the Phoenix Force, the Shi’ar, the Starjammers, and Mastermind. Jean Grey and the Phoenix Force are once again ailing. Cyclops just found out that Corsair of the Starjammers is his father, who he thought was dead. That’s to say nothing about how excited Beast is to be studying alien technology and culture. These are all big changes. However, it’s the little ones that often add up.

A lot of those little changes helped bring the X-men to this point. X-men Supreme Issue 46: Paradise Mystery, an issue I’ve been mentioning a lot lately, stands out as one of those issues that began the cosmic conflict that has since consumed the X-men. It was small at the time, at least as small as anything involving a crashed alien ship on Genosha can be considered small. It effectively introduced the alien elements of X-men to this fanfiction series. Since then, other small changes and tweaks have shown up in arcs like Starcrossed and the Phoenix Saga. I took my time, developing these plots steadily. A big chunk of the payoff is set to unfold here in the Outer Limits arc. That payoff will have far-reaching implications for X-men Supreme.

I don’t think I need to emphasize the big challenges the X-men are facing. Lilandra Neramani and her Shi’ar rebellion are desperate. D’ken is desperate too, pushing his people to the breaking point and beyond. This has to be the end of this cosmic conflict. D’ken’s success means more than just the loss of a rebellion and the continued suffering of the Shi’ar. The X-men already have an idea as to the extent of D’ken’s tyranny. Jean Grey, with help from the Phoenix Force, transported them into the middle of this inter-stellar war with the Starjammers. Now, thanks to Lilandra’s influence, they have a chance to end this conflict.

Make no mistake though. Within the big challenges of the Outer Limits arc, there are some small beginnings that will have a major impact on the future of the X-men Supreme fanfiction series. I try to mirror the X-men comics in some sense, laying the seeds for future stories within current stories. It’s a big part of my effort to make X-men Supreme as awesome as I want it to be. At this particular point in Outer Limits, I have a chance to do something that will heavily influence future stories in this fanfiction series.

I’ll likely refer back to the Outer Limits arc, specifically this issue, as one of those major turning points where the X-men Supreme fanfiction series underwent an unseen upheaval. In this case, it involves Professor Charles Xavier. He’s still the heart of the X-men and their dream, but he undermined his credibility among his students when he hid a crippling addiction to pain pills. That addiction, a problem that affects real people despite their power and wealth, nearly destroyed him. It almost destroyed his X-men as well in X-men Supreme Issue 127: Terror Sell.
 
However, Charles Xavier fought through this issue to rejoin his beloved Lilandra Neramni, who he hadn’t seen since the Starcrossed arc. He’s now in a position to aid his X-men once more. In doing so, the X-men are sure to undergo some major changes. The X-men Supreme fanfiction series is sure to endure some upheavals moving forward. I’ll stop dropping ominous hints at this point and let this latest issue of the Outer Limits arc speak for itself.

X-men Supreme Issue 139: Outer Limits Part 3

There are all sorts of dynamics involved with the X-men Supreme fanfiction series. It’s not enough to just give the X-men a new challenge with every arc. Like the X-men comics, it’s important to develop certain plots gradually over time. It’s important to build the drama and tension. That’s a big part of what makes the stories within X-men and the comics as a whole so powerful. I want to keep making stories like that with X-men Supreme. In order to do that, it’s vital that I continue to get feedback. Either contact me directly or post it directly in the issue. I’m always happy to chat X-men, be it the comics or X-men Supreme. Until next time, take care and best wishes. Excelsior!

Jack

X-men Supreme Issue 139: Outer Limits Part 3 PREVIEW!

It’s a fine line to walk, tweaking and twisting the X-men mythos in a novel and interesting ways. From both personal experience, as well as the sentiment I glean from my fellow comic book fans, I know that people are very sensitive about what happens when their favorite characters change in some way. The X-men are no different and they have been subject to their fair share of changes over the past 50 years. There are retcons like Madelyne Pryor, the heritage of Quicksilver and the Scarlet Witch, and the apparent death of Jean Grey during the Dark Phoenix Saga. Some of these tweaks pan out better than others, but with the X-men Supreme fanfiction series, I like to think I can make the right kinds of tweaks.

Make no mistake. Some major tweaks are coming, so to speak. I’ve already established that the Shi’ar and the Phoenix Force operate very differently in the world of X-men Supreme. The ending of the X-men Supreme Phoenix Saga already did plenty to shift the mythos of the Phoenix, especially compared to the X-men movies and the comics. Well now, with the Outer Limits arc in full swing, I’ll be revealing a few more major changes that you can only find here in this fanfiction series and not in any X-men comic. They’re changes that I hope appeal to even long-time X-men fans.

I’ve dropped a few hints thus far, starting with X-men Supreme Issue 136: Stranger Things. With this issue, I did more than just introduce Stranger, an obscure X-men character that even seasoned X-men fans probably don’t know about. I set the stage for a deeper exploration of the Phoenix Force and the Shi’ar. The Phoenix Saga already gave some clues as to how the Phoenix Force functions in this fanfiction series. For one, Jean Grey is not the sole avatar, nor is she the first. This cosmic force has had more than its share of hosts. It’s a concept consistent with the Phoenix Corps, which has been explored in the X-men comics.

However, that’s where the similarities end. When Jean Grey and Cyclops survived the original Phoenix Saga in X-men Supreme, they fundamentally changed the nature of how the Phoenix Force operates. That operation became part of Jean Grey’s development as a character, manifesting in arcs like the Cambrian Explosion. Now, with the Shi’ar entering the picture again, the Phoenix Force, Jean Grey, and the rest of the X-men will undergo a major upheaval that will have far-reaching implications.

I know I say that about a lot of arcs with X-men Supreme, but I mean it even more with Outer Limits. It’s not just Jean Grey, the Phoenix, or the X-men that will undergo changes. The very nature of the Shi’ar and the larger universe of X-men Supreme will be revealed. It will be different than the X-men comics. Those differences are going to be key as this fanfiction series continues to evolve. X-men Supreme Volume 6: Liberation Decimation is about to enter some major turning points that will shake the foundations of X-men Supreme to its core.

The beginning of those turning points will start to unfold within the Outer Limits arc. The X-men are now deep in Shi’ar territory. Jean Grey is in a coma, Cyclops just learned that Corsair is his long-lost father, and D’ken working hard with Mastermind to finish his plan before they can stop him. On top of that, Charles Xavier has returned to the front lines, albeit in a very messy way. What sort of complications can that bring? Time is running out and you’ll want to keep up. As always, I’ve prepared a preview of the kind of complications you expect the X-men to encounter.

‘Destruction…pain…sorrow…it won’t end. Every mind sharing the same agony. It’s…too much.’

The swirling thoughts of Charles Xavier plagued him even in his unconscious state. From the moment he confronted the Phoenix, his mind was awash with nightmares. The power of the M’krann Crystal kept crying out to him. It practically yelled into his ear, showing images of it’s the destructive potential. Then a new voice rang out over the crystal.

‘Charles…it’s time to wake up. You must hurry. Time is running out for all of us.’

Charles Xavier’s head throbbed as he was jolted from his nightmares. He opened his eyes to find that he was in a special bed of sorts. It was shaped like an egg and had a series of soft padding lined with special wires. Above him were several figures. There were three Shi’ar doctors. Scott Summers was standing next to them. The one that lingered closest was Lilandra, her angelic face looking down on him with tears of happiness and concern.

“Lilandra?” he said in a daze, “Did…did we make it?”

“Yes…in a manner of speaking,” she said distantly.

“We’re at a Shi’ar rebel base, sir,” said Scott in a more assertive tone, “Jean got us out of Genosha. She ended up transporting us into the midst of an alien civil war.”

“The danger hasn’t passed though,” said Lilandra, “We arrived safely, but my half-brother is stepping up his efforts. I know you’ve felt it and now I’m feeling it too. We must act.”

“D’ken…Jean…I remember now,” he said, “I must speak to her!”

“Charles wait…” began Lilandra.

Professor Xavier didn’t heed her warning. He rose up swiftly from the bed. It was at this moment he made a startling discovery.

“My legs!” he gasped, “I…I can feel them.”

“That’s what I was about to warn you about. I suppose it’s not necessary now,” she said.

“Guess it never hurts to thrust some good news into a crisis,” said Scott, his tone still strangely flat, “While you were out, the doctors demonstrated the wonders of Shi’ar medicine. Talk to Hank later. He’ll fill you in on all the details.”

Xavier’s excitement nearly overshadowed his anxiety. It had been so long since he had felt his legs fully. His cancer rendered them weak and useless. Now he was feeling them the same way he felt them when he was a younger less sickly man. It was awkward at first. He needed to hold onto Lilandra to maneuver his legs up from the bed. He kept leaning to her as she helped him off, allowing him to stand for the first time in years.

As he felt his legs under him once more, he made another discovery. The pain from his addiction wasn’t plaguing him anymore. His head and his body felt stronger than he could remember. It was like he was in his twenties again. Everything had been healed. When Lilandra stepped away and he stood fully, he smiled for the first time in what felt like a new life.

“This is incredible! I…I can walk again!” said Xavier, beaming with energy.

This arc is going to bring a lot of changes to the X-men Supreme fanfiction series. Marvel will bring its share of changes to the X-men comics as well thanks to the upcoming Death of X arc. I like to think that X-men Supreme won’t make things so dire. As I’ve noted before, this fanfiction series has yet to resort to time travel or alternate universe versions of characters. I hope to avoid those tactics. I want to give X-men fans something they can turn to when the X-men comics become too frustrating to follow. That means making X-men Supreme as awesome as possible is important to me and that makes the feedback I get doubly important. So please help me make X-men Supreme awesome. Either contact me directly with your feedback or post your comments in each issue. Until next time, take care and best wishes. Excelsior!

Jack

X-men Supreme Issue 138: Outer Limits Part 2 is LIVE!

These are trying times for X-men fans. Those with an internet connection found out last week that Marvel will be having an event ominously titled “Death of X” later this fall. It’s an event that’s sure to be grim for X-men fans, Cyclops fans, and fans of anything hopeful or uplifting. It’s sad that the state of the X-men comics has gotten to this point. Cyclops, Jean Grey, Charles Xavier, and Wolverine are all dead. Many others like Havok and Emma Frost are missing. Mutants are sterilized and going extinct, yet again. It’s a dark time for all things X-men. That’s why I’m making it a mission for the X-men Supreme fanfiction series to brighten things up.

The situation in X-men Supreme couldn’t be more different. Nobody has been sterilized. Mutants aren’t going extinct. Cyclops, Jean Grey, Charles Xavier, and Wolverine are all alive and well. Nobody is time displaced. To date, only one clone exists and that’s X-23. There hasn’t even been a single time travel story in this fanfiction series yet. When was the last time any X-men series could make such a claim? Yes, this fanfiction series offers something very different compared to the current X-men comics. I hope to add even more appeal to that offer with the Outer Limits arc.

This latest arc in X-men Supreme does not deal with extinction, sterilization, clones, or off-panel deaths of prominent characters. It doesn’t even deal with entirely earthly forces for that matter. The X-men had their share of that when they took on the Mutant Liberation Front. They eventually won that fight in the Natural Disorder arc. Now, they’ll need to win a battle in the cosmos against the Shi’ar.

It has been a while since the X-men went on a cosmic journey, both in the X-men comics and within X-men Supreme. I’ve been building up to this journey since X-men Supreme Volume 3: Ashes of Hope. For this particular cosmic conflict, the biggest catalyst occurred at the end of the Phoenix Saga. That story wasn’t just the culmination of Jean Grey’s struggle with a cosmic force. It offered the first insight into the Shi’ar. It offered a telling hint about who they are in this fanfiction series. Now, Outer Limits will reveal so much more.

The X-men aren’t just about saving the world from bigotry and hatred. Every now and then, they have to save the universe as well. They were able to save it from the Phoenix Force. Now, they face a more daunting problem with the Shi’ar. Lilandra Neramani has returned, along with the Starjammers. Her half-brother, D’ken, is preparing something big with the help of Mastermind, someone who plays an instrumental role in the Phoenix Saga. He has been MIA ever since, but for good reason. He’s preparing to unleash something that may end up being more destructive than the Phoenix Force and D’ken is happy to help him.

The stakes couldn’t be higher for the X-men. This cosmic journey will take them to the heart of the Shi’ar Empire and test them in ways that won’t require extinction, sterilization, or off-panel deaths. These sorts of journeys help bring out the best in the X-men. I hope to capture that in this fanfiction series. So those who are feeling pessimistic about Death of X, Cyclops, or time-travel stories, this should be a welcome reprieve.

X-men Supreme Issue 138: Outer Limits Part 2

It’s during this difficult times for X-men fans that I try to make the X-men Supreme fanfiction series a refuge of sorts. I know it’s not the same as the comics. I know it’ll never be on the same level as anything Marvel produces. However, I also know that X-men fans are anxious these days. It’s hard not to be a little jaded, given how poorly the X-men have been treated in recent years. This fanfiction series can’t do anything to change that, but it can offer an outlet for X-men fans who seek something different from the doom, gloom, and sterilization. That’s why I’m more committed than ever to make X-men Supreme as awesome as can be. As always, it’s an awesome I cannot do alone. I need support and feedback from fellow X-men fans to ensure that X-men Supreme delivers. So please take the time to post your comments directly in the issue or contact me directly. I’m always happy to chat and console my fellow X-men fans. Until next time, take care and best wishes. Xcelsior!

Jack