X-men Supreme Issue 174: Disillusion is LIVE! (And A Supreme Announcement)

Before I say anything about the latest issue, I want to make a quick announcement. After giving it plenty of thought, I’ve decided this issue will act as the last issue of the X-men Supreme fanfiction series, at least for now. That’s not to say that this is the definitive end of X-men Supreme. For now, assume that this fanfiction series will be on an extended hiatus. I cannot say whether it’ll be temporary or permanent, but I feel like the time has come to step away from this fanfiction series.

That said, I can say more definitively that this is the end of X-men Supreme Volume 7: United and Divided. The High Evolutionary has been defeated. Magneto made the ultimate sacrifice to save a world which he still believes mutants must dominate. His vision, even though it frequently clashed with Charles Xavier’s, is not dead. It is simply in the hands of a new generation led by his daughter, the Scarlet Witch. A world without Magneto is full of uncertainty, but plenty of promise as well.

The High Evolution arc wasn’t just an end to Magneto’s story. It was the culmination of a process that began in the earliest issues of X-men Supreme Volume 1: Mutant Revolution. For Magneto, the status of mutants was untenable. He was not about to let humanity oppress his kind. He saw what that sort of oppression led to and was going to cross any line to stop it, even if that put him at odds with the X-men. Throughout the course of X-men Supreme, Magneto has never abandoned that vision. Now, it must carry on without him.

The world he leaves behind is intact, but still vulnerable. Humans and mutants alike have been stripped of the defenses they once relied on, thanks to the events of Crimes Against Inhumanity. There’s also a new continent in the middle of the Pacific Ocean thanks to Magneto’s sacrifice. Unlike Genosha, though, this isn’t just another mutant haven. The mutants on what was once Asteroid M must share it with the former humans that the High Evolutionary mutated. Whether or not these individuals will share the values of the mutant race remains to be seen, but there are already ominous signs brewing.

In this new world, the Mutant Monitoring Initiative that drove so many conflicts throughout X-men Supreme Volume 7: United and Divided is no more. Both General Grimshaw and President Kelly saw first-hand as this well-intentioned plan nearly destroyed the entire world. Charles Xavier thought that he could align his dreams of peace with this plan. He was wrong and it was only by breaking it that the X-men were able to help save the world. While his dream and President Kelly’s agenda are still shaken, they are not completely lost.

This is a time of reflection and reform. The world of X-men Supreme is still full of humans and mutants who long for peace. Time and again, they’ve seen renegade mutants like Magneto pursue violent confrontation. They’ve also seen deranged humans like Mr. Sinister use mutation to inflict mass death. There’s no shortage of hate, mistrust, and threats on both sides. For the sake of a better world, they must work together moving forward.

That’s the primary goal of the final issue of X-men Supreme Volume 7: United and Divided. The divisions that began in X-men Supreme Issue 148: New Divide must be mended. For Charles Xavier’s vision to remain intact, the X-men must be made whole again. While it’s impossible to go back to the way things were, it’s necessary to bring the team together once more. The same goes for the Scarlet Witch and the Brotherhood of Mutants. There are many deep scars that need to heal, but there are just as many opportunities to forge a new path.

As the X-men and the Brotherhood go about rebuilding their vision, General Grimshaw and President Kelly have some hard decisions to make as well. The nature of those decisions will set the tone for the future of humanity as well. Like mutants, there’s plenty of hope in that future. It’s just a matter of how they go about it. The same can be said for the X-men and Charles Xavier. There are still unresolved issues, but the key to moving forward all comes back to hope and that’s what this final issue will convey.

X-men Supreme Issue 174: Disillusion

As I said before, this issue marks the end for the X-men Supreme fanfiction series, at least for now. After a long, eventful journey that included uprisings, sewer-dwelling societies, cosmic forces, alien tyrants, long-lost fathers, and so much more, I’m ready to cap off the story of X-men Supreme for now. This vast world that I began developing in January 2010 has grown in ways I never imagined. I can honestly say I’m proud of how it has played out.

I feel like this is a good place to leave the mythos of this fanfiction series. I understand that some aspects of this final issue leave things open for another volume, but I’m not sure I have the energy to pursue it at this point. That may change at a later time. If I get enough feedback and support, I will certainly consider re-opening X-men Supreme for more stories. I may even add in a few tie-ins, be they one-shots or minis. For the moment, though, I intend to take a break from the world of X-men Supreme.

To all the wonderful people who have been following this fanfiction series and supporting it every step of the way, I sincerely thank you. From the bottom of my heart, I thank you. I never could’ve taken X-men Supreme this far without you. I sincerely hope you have enjoyed this uncanny journey. Even as this fanfiction series ends, I’d still love to hear from you. Send me your feedback by contacting me or posting your comments. I’m still happy to chat.

For now, though, this is it. This is the end. Again, thank you for experiencing the world of X-men Supreme with me. Xcelsior!

Jack

X-men Supreme Issue 174: Disillusion PREVIEW!

The biggest, most significant upheaval in the X-men Supreme fanfiction series is complete. The High Evolution arc concluded and so too did Magneto’s story. What began in X-men Supreme Issue 3: Competition effectively ended in X-men Supreme Issue 173: High Evolution Part 5. Magneto made his choice and his sacrifice. His vision for the mutant race is no longer his to pursue. That burden now falls upon the shoulders of his daughter, the Scarlet Witch, and a reunited Brotherhood of Mutants. While his vision will continue, Magneto’s story has ended.

Make no mistake. This is not a case where the fate of a character is left ambiguous, as is often the case in the X-men comics. I will confirm without ambiguity that Magneto is dead. He will not be returning in future issues of X-men Supreme. I never intended or wanted his story to drag out over time, constantly fluctuating between the role of villain and anti-hero. It’s an aspect of the X-men comics that I think is overdone. I had planned as far back as the Overlord arc to give Magneto a definitive end in this fanfiction series. That end is now here.

As such, the end of Magneto’s story represents a significant change for that of Charles Xavier and the X-men. After the world once again came to the brink of annihilation, one thing is clear. The X-men can no longer remain divided. The schism between Charles Xavier and Cyclops that unfolded in X-men Supreme Issue 148: New Divide cannot continue. The events of High Evolution and Crimes Against Inhumanity both show that the world needs a united X-men, now more than ever. As the dust settles from this latest conflict, and all the lost that came with it, a new era for the X-men will begin out of necessity.

What does this mean for Charles Xavier? What does it mean for the Mutant Monitoring Initiative that both General Grimshaw and President Kelly worked so hard to create? What does it mean for Captain Freeman? What does it mean for Cyclops, Wolverine, and X-Force? What does it mean for Jean Grey now that she has her Phoenix powers back? What does it mean for Issac and the impact that his death will have on those he influenced? These are just some of the loose ends that I intend to resolve in the final issue of X-men Supreme Volume 7: United and Divided.

It has been a tense, dramatic journey. When I began X-men Supreme Volume 7: United and Divided, I knew I was taking a chance. Stories about divided X-men have been overdone in the comics in recent years. However, I felt like this was a story that needed to happen, if only to raise the stakes for Charles Xavier’s dream and the obstacles the X-men face. I didn’t intend for it to carry beyond this volume. The X-men were always going to reunite, but the scars left by the division will remain.
Nothing can be the same. Relationships will change. The very idea of what it means to be an X-man will change. Some parts of the process will be bittersweet. Some will be heartfelt and humbling.

Some will reflect the losses and gains that come with any conflict. In the end, the X-men will continue doing what they’ve always done, fighting for a world that hates and fears them. It’s just a matter of how that fight will evolve in a world after Magneto’s sacrifice. That world will take shape in this final issue. As always, I’ve a preview of that emerging world for the X-men, their allies, and their enemies.

“So how’s that helmet and cape treating you?” asked Frenzy in a coarse tone, “It sure doesn’t mesh with your style.”

“Beat it, Frenzy,” said Alex, who was standing next to Wanda with Lorna, “Don’t you have some rubble to bury yourself in?”

“Excuse me for voicing concerns about my new home,” she quipped dryly, “I think I have a right to be a little crass when Magneto’s chosen successor looks like a deer in headlights.”

“We’re not in space anymore. No one is forcing you to stay,” Alex pointed out.

“I’m a wanted fugitive from White Cell who also got caught up in shady dealings with Black Tom. It’s either here or prison and I don’t do prison.”

“And whose fault is that?” quipped Alex.

“It’s no one’s fault,” said Wanda flatly, “Frenzy was caught up in this like the rest of us. She has as much right to stay here as any other mutant.”

“I still don’t see why that makes her qualified to join the Brotherhood,” said Alex.

“We’re low on manpower and she’s got the strength of fifty. Besides, I think I need the harsh criticism. I can’t afford to be arrogant at a time like this.”

Frenzy sneered at Alex, who was held back from further remarks thanks to Lorna. She had a legitimate reason to be critical. She had been working with Blob, Unus, Pyro, and Kid Omega for the past few days now. They were part of a large-scale cleaning effort for City X and the rest of Asteroid M. From the crippled citadel, Wanda could see the extent of the devastation. Many buildings had been damaged. Some collapsed. Every mutant took part in the effort, but it wasn’t without complications.

During the High Evolutionary’s attack, the million former humans did more than drive mutants into hiding. They created an atmosphere of mistrust. Hundreds had been injured during the attack. There were even reports of multiple deaths. That kind of hostility would make it difficult to rebuild. They had already failed on Genosha and Asteroid M was much bigger. They couldn’t afford to fail again, especially Magneto’s sacrifice.

Wanda had been contemplating plans for Asteroid M all morning. The X-men helped them reestablish order, but they could not stick around. They had their own rebuilding to do. Someone needed to explain to the rest of the world what had happened here. For once the X-men had the easier task. At least they were united again. The same could not be said for Asteroid M.

“Got some big news, sis. Looks like it’s worse than we thought,” said Pietro in his usual rushed tone as he came running in at high speeds.

“I assume it’s bad news because it always is when you come running in like this,” said Wanda dryly.

“It has the potential to be pretty fucking bad,” said the speedster, “All these pissed off former humans now have a new name. They’re calling themselves the Neo and they don’t seem interested in cooperating with mutants.”

“The Neo? What kind of a name is that?” scoffed Frenzy.

“It’s the name their new leader gave them. Remember that asshole, Vargas?”

“Vargas? That guy was once a few levels below your typical junki?! Why the hell would anyone follow him?” questioned Alex.

“It’s not terribly surprising. He was the first of his kind. He embodies what those 999,999 other humans once struggled with,” said Wanda distantly, “The High Evolutionary linked every one of them on a biological level. I wouldn’t be surprised if that link runs much deeper now that he’s gone.”

She turned her attention towards the plaza just below the citadel. The area was set up as a makeshift medical area where Mellencamp, Mercury, Senyaka, and Scanner worked with their healer, Elixir, to treat wounded mutants. There was already a strong sense of animosity. One part of the plaza was reserved for mutants that had been in the crossfire during the High Evolutionary’s attack. The other was reserved for the Neo, who had few injured and no reported deaths. Neither group felt comfortable around one another. The Neo already seemed to be leaving City X in droves. It was a clear sign of things to come.

“Before the X-men left, Professor Xavier warned me that growing into an ability was very different from simply gaining it,” Wanda went on, “Most mutants like us had to work at mastering our abilities. It helps us use them and appreciate them. But these Neo had everything done for them. The High Evolutionary just gave them their power without contemplating what it could do to them.”

“Makes me feel even sicker that we didn’t find much of his body,” grumbled Pietro, “I would have loved just throwing it out into the ocean and feeding it to the sharks.”

“In some ways they were the biggest victims,” added Wanda, “They were desperate people who were taken advantage of. They don’t know the value of their own power yet. I don’t see any of them helping us rebuild City X.”

“I heard they may even build a city of their own,” said Pietro, “There are a million of them and only a few thousand of us, give or take. Asteroid M is a big place and they’re already drawing battle lines.”

“Then I guess we’ll have to split time between fighting them and the humans that don’t like the idea of a new mutant continent,” said Alex.

“Continent? I thought we were a country,” said Frenzy.

“Genosha was just an island. Asteroid M isn’t just bigger. It has its own ecosystem. And unlike Genosha, we won’t have the luxury of Warlock technology to help us run it.”

“Yet another reason why we should have let the X-men stay just so we could beat them up a bit,” said the speedster.

“They also saved our lives in case you’ve forgotten,” Wanda pointed out, “Perhaps it’s a good thing that stopping the High Evolutionary also shut down the Warlock technology. We were growing too dependent on it. If mutants are to survive, we must rely on what makes us strong. We must show the Neo and the rest of the world that mutants can stand united. Father would have wanted it that way.”

The mention of Magneto evoked a solemn tone in her voice. Pietro and Lorna shared her sorrow. The loss of their father was still sinking in. Even though Wanda wore his helmet and cape, his presence loomed large.

“I like to think that Father trusts us to carry on his legacy…minus the wars and mass extinctions, of course,” said Lorna.

“It’s not like he left us with nothing to build on,” said Alex, “We have a whole continent at our disposal along most of the world’s mutant population.”

“That alone wouldn’t impress, Father. Maintaining it and making it stable for future generations would go much further,” said Wanda.

“And you think we can do that with the Neo and the humans breathing down our neck?” said Frenzy.

“We’re going to move forward under the assumption that it’s possible,” said Wanda, “More importantly, we’re not going to shut ourselves off. We still have allies that we can lean on for support.”

“Are you talking about the X-men?” scoffed Pietro.

“Or more specifically a certain X-man with blue fur, a tail, and an exotic German accent that you seem to find so alluring?” said Lorna with a slight tease.

“I really hope you’re being sarcastic, Lorna,” groaned Pietro.

“Sarcastic or not, I learned a lot while I was with X-Force. I learned the most from Kurt and not in the way you’re probably thinking,” said Wanda, her voice shifting again as more emotions overwhelmed her.

“Still makes me sick to the very pit of my stomach,” grumbled Pietro.

“Above all, he taught me that having faith in a vision and taking action are two sides of the same coin. You can’t rely on one alone. You also can’t compromise one for the sake of the other. That was Magneto’s greatest mistake. Charles Xavier made that same mistake with the Mutant Monitoring Initiative. Now, we have a chance to learn from it and if this world is going to succeed, we damn well better.”

She had a strength in her tone that superseded the emotional strain. It was the kind of strength that commanded respect and leadership. Wanda had been away from the Brotherhood for a while. The influence that Kurt and the X-men had on her was apparent. As a result, she would have to earn the trust of every mutant and Neo on Asteroid M. Perhaps. It seemed daunting, but that was good for her. It would make her work that much harder to honor her father’s sacrifice.

“So what’s the next step, Wanda? Or should I call you Madam Maximoff now?” asked Frenzy dryly

“The next step is too far ahead to contemplate,” she said, “We need to focus on the present right now. That involves cleaning up City X, assembling resources, and establishing relationships with allies.”

“I hope those relationships don’t involve inviting Nightcrawler to join,” muttered Pietro.

“You can rest easy, Pietro. Kurt has some loose ends to resolve with the X-men. But he knows our door is open to him.”

“Speak for yourself,” he groaned, which earned a scold from Lorna.

“I know it’s not going to be popular. I may make myself a target as well. But we can’t let old rivalries get in our way anymore. We need to be loved, respected, and feared,” Wanda went on, “Xavier and his X-men are strong enough to keep the world in one piece. We need to show that we’re strong enough to make our new world a part of it.”

“Speaking of which, are we going to keep calling this new world Asteroid M?” asked Alex, “We’re not in space anymore. I think if we’re going to be viable, we need a name that’s not quite as loaded.”

Wanda continued to scrutinize the cityscape of this new world. Down below, the Brotherhood just pulled the body the rubble. It was a mutant who had died during the High Evolutionary’s attack. It appeared to be the body of a young mutant woman. The grim sight horrified many of the mutants that were getting medical treatment. It also further intensified their mistrust of the Neo, who looked indifferent to this death.

This was the atmosphere in which she would have to lead. It seemed so daunting. Asteroid M had a very morbid ambiance. She tried to imagine Kurt being by her side, lending the support he had given her throughout this whole crisis. She would need it and so much more to succeed in the way their people deserved.

“I’ve thought of that too, Alex,” said Wanda, “This isn’t the High Evolutionary’s world anymore. It isn’t Magneto’s either. It’s our world. That’s why from this day forward I’m calling this new mutant continent Avalon.”

“Avalon? Sounds like a Renaissance fair,” scoffed Frenzy.

“It’s actually a land from mythology. One father told me about while I was a child,” she explained, “It was a mythical land that housed King Auther’s sword, Excalibur. It was said to be a land that produced everything that was necessary for it’s inhabitants to survive.”

“Well technically that was true before all our Warlock technology was shut down,” Pietro pointed out, “We’ve still got hardware, but I doubt we can produce everything we need.”

“That’s not the point, Pietro. Avalon was special because it was a land that was only limited by the people that utilized it. We need to go beyond those limits for our people. Not just for the dangers we know we’ll face, but for the dangers that have yet to emerge.”

I’m very proud of how far I’ve taken X-men Supreme over the past eight years. The end of Magneto’s story in the High Evolution arc is something I found very satisfying. I hope others feel the same way. However, I also crafted that ending with the idea that I may not continue X-men Supreme after X-men Supreme Volume 7: United and Divided. While I do have ideas for more stories, the lack of feedback and energy have left me to consider whether it would be best to leave this fanfiction series where it stands.

I haven’t quite made my decision yet, but I’m already leaning in a particular direction. There’s a very real chance that the next issue of X-men Supreme could be the last. However, you can still influence that decision by providing comments and feedback. Either post them directly in the issue or contact me directly. I can’t guarantee that what you say will change my mind one way or another, but I will take them seriously as I render this critical decision. Until next time, take care and best wishes. Xcelsior!

Jack

X-men Supreme Issue 173: High Evolution Part 5 is LIVE!

It’s here. The final battle between the X-men and Magneto has arrived. What began in the first few issues of X-men Supreme Volume 1: Mutant Revolution is set to end in a battle that will leave no corner of this fanfiction series untouched. Since their first encounter in X-men Supreme issue 3: Competition, Magneto has been fighting for a vision that has put him at odds with the X-men at every turn. Whereas Charles Xavier seeks peace and understating, Magneto seeks domination and subjugation. As he said in the X-men First Class movie, peace was never an option. He has that same mindset in X-men Supreme and it has led them to this final battle in High Evolution.

I say it’s the final battle for reasons that I hope will make sense soon enough. Since the beginning of the High Evolution arc, I’ve made clear that Asteroid M is Magneto’s ultimate failsafe plan. Going all the way back to his initial plan for mutant domination in the Uprising arc, he always intended it to be a last resort. He and the High Evolutionary have been working behind the scenes, making every effort to ensure that such extremes weren’t necessary. Thanks to the efforts of Charles Xavier and his X-men, though, all those previous efforts failed. Magneto has no intention of letting this one slip by.

There will be no surrender. There will be no compromise. When all is said and done, Magneto’s story in the X-men Supreme fanfiction series will be complete. His journey, which I’ve been crafting from influences of every X-men medium, has been built on a mix of tragedy, treachery, and drive. The friendship and rivalry between him and Charles Xavier embodies the very soul of the X-men. Everything that makes the X-men heroes stems from this conflict. In the comics and movies, it has created a brutal cycle of triumph, pain, and loss. In the X-men Supreme fanfiction series, there will be no such cycle. That story will have an end.

In my opinion, it has to end in order for the journey of Charles Xavier and his X-men to move forward. It also has to end in order to resolve the ongoing schism between Xavier and Cyclops. X-men Supreme Volume 7: United and Divided has been a testament to just how much the X-men struggle when they aren’t a coherent team. The X-men comics explored this too, but X-men Supreme made it more personal. X-men Supreme Issue 148: New Divide broke a lot of hearts as Cyclops quit the X-men to forge X-Force, believing that Xavier had lost his way in forging an alliance with General Grimshaw and President Kelly. The price of that schism has been rising ever since.

From Drug War to Crimes Against Inhumanity, the weaknesses of the X-men and X-Force reveal themselves at every turn. Neither Charles Xavier nor Cyclops can definitively say they were right at this point. Both have been vindicated in some areas and proven wrong in others. As a result, both teams found themselves in a position of weakness when Magneto struck. Now, with the High Evolutionary revealing his own tricks as well, they find themselves and the entire human race on the brink. The end is upon them. If Magneto triumphs, humanity is no more. This is truly it for the X-men and for Magneto. If you only read one issue of the X-men Supreme fanfiction series all year, make it this one. Trust me when I say the end will leave the X-men, mutants, and the entire human race forever changed.

X-men Supreme Issue 173: High Evolution Part 5

It’s amazing to think that the X-men Supreme fanfiction series has come so far. I knew when I began in X-men Supreme Volume 1: Mutant Revolution that I wanted Magneto’s story to have a definitive endpoint. I also wanted Charles Xavier and the rest of his X-men to undergo definitive changes as well. The X-men comics tend to go in cycles. I wanted this fanfiction series to evolve. I think the High Evolution arc represents the biggest evolution to date for X-men Supreme. Whether you’ve been following X-men comics for years or have just watched the movies, I wanted X-men Supreme to appeal to you. I sincerely hope that this issue and all the events that led to it are as satisfying as I hope.

I can confirm, at this point, that there will be one more issue of X-men Supreme Volume 7: United and Divided. I can’t necessarily confirm whether it will be the final issue of the X-men Supreme fanfiction series, as a whole. I certainly have ideas for more X-men Supreme stories and I understand that some plots have not yet been resolved. However, the lack of feedback with this series has made it difficult to justify all the time and effort I have put into it. Depending on what kind of response I get for this and the next issue, I may just end it. Until then, though, I urge everyone to take the time to send me your feedback on this and the X-men Supreme fanfiction series. Either post your comments directly in the issue or contact me directly. Either way is fine and I’m happy to chat X-men. Until next time, take care and best wishes. Xcelsior!

Jack

X-men Supreme Issue 173: High Evolution Part 5 PREVIEW!

The final showdown of X-men Supreme Volume 7: United and Divided is upon us. Magneto’s ultimate endgame is here. Professor Charles Xavier, General Grimshaw, President Kelly, Captain Freeman, Cyclops, the Scarlet Witch, the X-men, and X-Force have been on a collision course. The High Evolution arc has just accelerated everything. They’re all past the point of no return. There’s no turning back. Magneto and the High Evolutionary are set to make their boldest move to date. When all is said and done, the X-men Supreme fanfiction series will never be the same.

I’ve tried to make major volume of X-men Supreme end with a bang in the best possible way. X-men Supreme Volume 1: Mutant Evolution had Uprising. X-men Supreme Volume 3: Ashes of Hope had the Phoenix Saga. Each final arc signaled a major upheaval coupled with a major transition for this fanfiction series. Sometimes, it ended on a high note, setting the stage for a new set of challenges. Other times, the end was solemn and bittersweet. For both X-men Supreme Volume 5: Dark Truths and X-men Supreme Volume 6: Liberation Decimation, the endgames were pretty bleak. I don’t deny that.

For a while now, Professor Xavier and his X-men have had more setbacks than victories. You could argue the same has been happening in the X-men comics for years. However, I haven’t taken this fanfiction series down these darker paths to create a sense of futility. I knew before I finished X-men Supreme Volume 5: Dark Truths how I wanted things to play out. I had the ending for X-men Supreme Volume 7: United and Divided in mind when ended things with Dark Legacy. The culmination of that plan is about to play out in High Evolution.

That’s not to say that the ending will be a perfect victory for the X-men and all that is good. Every triumph, even from the X-men’s best moments in this fanfiction series, have come at a price. It’s just a matter of extent. Throughout X-men Supreme Volume 7: United and Divided, there have been many events that have kept the X-men divided. The schism between Charles Xavier and Cyclops kept them from working together during the Drug War and Crimes Against Inhumanity arc. As a result, both teams struggled and suffered losses. On top of that, their inability to be the X-men they’ve always been left the world vulnerable to Magneto and the High Evolutionary.

It has made for a long, turbulent journey for the X-men. Charles Xavier has seen his dream falter, evolve, and almost disintegrate before his very eyes on multiple occasions. Once again, he and Magneto are in a bitter struggle for the future of mutants and humans alike. Once again, Magneto is poised to exterminate the human race for the sake of mutants. He and the High Evolutionary have left nothing to chance. This is the ultimate endgame for them. There’s no backup plan. There’s no fail-safe. Either they succeed or everyone perishes. That’s all there is to it. The stakes literally couldn’t be higher. As always, I’ve prepared an extended preview of just how this final battle will culminate for the X-men.

“NO! THIS CAN’T BE HAPPENING! THIS WORLD OF MINE! ALL THIS HARD WORK!” exclaimed the High Evolutionary.

“Has officially gone to shit,” grinned Mystique.

That harsh truth stung. Shortly after the revelation that Mystique had been posing as Cyclops, the High Evolutionary used his monitor to check on the transverse electromagnetic modulation thrusters. He tuned in just in time to see that Cyclops, Angel, and Illyana had subdued the Brotherhood and made some adjustments to his device. Using Illyana’s portal, they brought in some Warlock technology of their own. With it, they attached what looked like beacons to the flickering core that had been retrieved from Genosha. Once it was in place, the chaos truly took hold.

Warnings blared. Sirens went off. A mysterious blast shot up from the surface of the Earth. It was like a massive lightning bolt, arcing its way through the depths of space. It arced towards Asteroid M where it connected with the transverse electromagnetic modulation thrusters. From that connection, the core from Genosha shorted out. It also sent a deep tremor that rocked the entire asteroid. Such chaos left the High Evolutionary enraged to the point of madness.

Phoenix, still surrounded by cosmic flames, rushed to Mystique and Dark Beast. They were both wounded so she instinctively made sure they were protected. As the images of Cyclops leading the attack against the Brotherhood played out over the High Evolutionary’s monitor, Phoenix felt a surge of emotions.

“Scott Summers, you brilliant and frustrating man,” she mused as she hovered over Mystique and Dark Beast, “How can I be so pissed yet so hot for you at the same time?”

“He told me to tell you that he would explain everything when this is over,” said Mystique, “I would tell you to go easy on him, but given how he’s been acting lately…well, let’s just say he needs to be humbled.”

“We both do,” she said distantly while smiling at the monitor.

“In the meantime, we need to make sure your friend here doesn’t wake up cranky.”

Phoenix agreed and used her telepathy to keep Dark Beast unconscious. It was a welcome sight for Nightcrawler, Wanda, Captain Freeman, and Professor Xavier even though they were still trapped in Magneto’s metal confines. There were a lot of questions to be answered, but for once things were going their way.

“You knew about this, didn’t you?” said Professor Xavier.

“To a large extent, yes,” said Wanda, focused on her still unconscious father.

“It vasn’t just X-Force, Professor,” said Nightcrawler, “Ve received help from everybody ve could reach. Zhat included District X, X-Factor, Jubilee’s Lights, and our friends on Muir Island.”

“And all in utter secrecy,” said Xavier, sounding both impressed and somewhat disturbed, “How did you put it all together like this?”

“Not forgetting that some of us have a huge problem with you going behind our backs,” said Captain Freeman with a cold.

“Ve had to because you couldn’t, Professor,” said Nightcrawler, “Ve didn’t need soldiers or authorities for a threat like zhis. Ve needed heroes.”

The relief Xavier felt was now coupled with a sense of sorrow. It resonated in a way that was even more powerful than the outrage that the High Evolutionary was experiencing. He knew from the beginning that Mutant Monitoring Initiative was a risk. He worked so hard to make it succeed. Now he had proof that those efforts weren’t enough. On top of that, he lost sight of what his X-men stood for and it nearly cost him dearly.

While Xavier processed that painful realization, Captain Freeman set aside his emotions and re-focused on the mission. The sudden turning of the tide meant they might be able to salvage some objectives.

While everyone was still reeling from the shock, he adapted his body more fervently. He adjusted his bones and limbs so that they were more malleable. He also changed the bulk of his arms so that he had greater strength. Meanwhile, the High Evolutionary scrambled to salvage any sense of control.

“I can still rebuild!” he said frantically, “You think disabling it will prevent me from destroying your world? You’re wrong! I’ve plenty of other options at my disposal!”

“And I have just as many options to dispose of you!” grunted the Green Beret.

In another startling loss of control for the High Evolutionary, Captain Freeman broke out from his metal confines. Once free, he went right for the High Evolutionary. The imposing figure turned around just in time to receive a devastating punch to the head.

“Augh!” he groaned as he keeled over his console.

“Consider yourself lucky,” said Captain Freeman, “Beating you to a pulp was only a secondary mission objective.”

“You couldn’t have done that a little sooner?” groaned Wanda, who was still stuck.

“Blame your old man! He kept doing too many metal tricks for me to adapt,” said Captain Freeman, “That’s why my primary mission objective is more important.”

“What do you mean by primary objective?” asked Professor Xavier suspiciously.

“I know you’re naïve, Xavier. But you can’t be that deluded,” said the Green Beret, “X-Force isn’t the only one who can play the deception game. Sometimes we need to lie to both our allies and our enemies.”

Leaving the High Evolutionary hunched over his computer array, Captain Freeman turned his attention towards Magneto. He was groaning lightly, hinting that he wasn’t completely knocked out and could still be a threat.

Ignoring every other detail for the mission, he walked up to Magneto’s unmoving form and pulled out a small handgun he had stashed in his uniform. It didn’t look like an ordinary handgun either. It was gray with a plastic texture. With little, hesitation, he pointed the gun right at Magneto’s head.

“What the hell are you doing?” exclaimed Wanda.

“It’s exactly what it looks like,” said Captain Freeman as he cocked the gun, “The High Evolutionary was the brains of this operation. Now I’m taking out the muscle.”

“Put the gun down, Captain! This wasn’t part of the mission!” yelled Professor Xavier.

“Wrong again, Xavier. This was always part of the mission,” said Captain Freeman stoically, “Don’t hate me for it. I’m just following orders.”

I’m very excited to see the High Evolution arc conclude, along with the many stories that have led to this moment. I’ve been writing X-men Supreme for over eight years now and every arc seems more ambitious than the last. This one is, by far, the biggest one I’ve written since the Phoenix Saga. There have been so many twists and turns leading up to it. I hope the end result is as rewarding to read as it was to write
.
At this point, after writing X-men Supreme for so long, I’ve had a chance to really develop and refine this fanfiction series. I write every issue with the intention of making it better than the last one. I feel as though I’ve come a long way since it began back in 2010. This world and these characters I love have evolved so much and they’ve helped remind me why I love X-men so much. The feedback I’ve gotten in that time has been incredible and I hope I get plenty more as I prepare to conclude this incredible arc. Please, if you can, take the time to send me feedback. Either contact me directly or post your comments in each issue. Either way is fine and I always appreciate constructive comments. Until next time, take care and best wishes. Xcelsior!

Jack

X-men Supreme Issue 172: High Evolution Part 4 is LIVE!

In every battle that the X-men have won or lost, there is a defining moment that determined the outcome of the battle. There have been plenty of those moments throughout the X-men Supreme fanfiction series. In Uprising, it was the Scarlet Witch’s fateful decision to save Quicksilver that set the stage forMagneto’s defeat. In the Phoenix Saga, it was Cyclops’ death that turned Jean Grey against the Phoenix Force, allowing her to wrestle back control. Against the Mutant Liberation Front, it was Charles Xavier’s fateful decision to push himself that led to the defeat that forced him to step away from the X-men.

The High Evolution arc has already had plenty of moments for the X-men, X-Force, and every being on the planet, human and mutant alike. Magneto’s return has literally hit every corner of a world that Romulus rendered painfully vulnerable after the events of Crimes Against Inhumanity. The division between Cyclops and Professor Xavier began to crack. Even General Grimshaw and President Kelly showed their frustration, making clear that they cannot afford another defeat.

Since Magneto’s return, X-men Supreme has been racing towards another dramatic turning point that will further define this fanfiction series. There have only been a handful of those points to date, despite X-men Supreme spanning over 170 issues over an eight-year span. From Jean Grey embracing the power of the Phoenix Force to Sinister unleashing the Legacy Virus on the whole world, these are the moments that require the most time, energy, and awesome. The final showdown in High Evolution promises to deliver just such a moment.

Make no mistake. There will be losses. There will be casualties. Prices will be paid, hearts will be broken, and spirits will be crushed. Magneto and the High Evolutionary have made that unavoidable at this point. The lingering division between Charles Xavier and Cyclops made it distressingly easy, as well. It’s going to get bad, but at the same time, these are also the kinds of moments that bring out the best in the X-men. The comics, cartoons, and movies demonstrate that all the time. I hope to do the same here with this fanfiction series.

I’m excited and eager to see this moment unfold in X-men Supreme. It’s something I’ve been waiting to get to since Magneto’s departure after the Time Bomb arc. I’d always planned on bringing him back into the fold. I knew that when the time came, his actions would take the X-men, their allies, and their enemies to a defining point that will send shockwaves throughout this fanfiction series. The time for teasing is over. The moment that will subsequently define X-men Supreme’s past, present, and future has finally arrived.

X-men Supreme Issue 172: High Evolution Part 4

Having worked so hard to set up the events in this issue, I’m eager to hear the reactions. I have a feeling this issue will shock some, but not others who are familiar with the X-men’s resolve. They’ve been battling Magneto for over 50 years in comics, cartoons, movies, and assorted media. They always find a way to endure, even when they suffer terrible losses. It’s part of what makes them the iconic heroes they are. More than anything else, I want High Evolution to help define the breadth of that resolve.

I sincerely hope it’s as satisfying to read as it was for me to write. I worked long and hard to guide this fanfiction series to the moments that unfold in this issue. I hope it’s the kind of moment that X-men fans of all kinds can appreciate. I had a lot of fun writing it, but it matters just as much that those reading it enjoyed it as well. Please, if you can, take the time to review this and any other issue of X-men Supreme. Either post your comments directly in the issue or contact me directly with your feedback. Either way is fine and I’m always happy to hear from fellow X-men fans. Until next time, take care and best wishes. Xcelsior!

Jack

X-men Supreme Issue 172: High Evolution Part 4 PREVIEW!

The first shots of Magneto’s last stand in X-men Supreme Volume 7: United and Divided have been fired. The X-men, X-Force, and a very vulnerable world after the events of Crimes Against Inhumanity braced themselves for this moment. They all knew Magneto was capable of destruction on a global scale. Even after the events of Overlord and The Cambrian Explosion, he found way to step up that scale by bringing a new world in Asteroid M to the mix. Now, that world is about to take this fanfiction series into one of this most climactic moments.

It’s a moment that has been building since the final moments of Time Bomb. I’d always intended to bring Magneto back into the mix. He has been a guiding force in the X-men Supreme fanfiction series since its earliest days. Just like the X-men comics, he has a knack for bringing out the best and worst in Charles Xavier and his X-men. Without a doubt, they need their absolute best on all levels.

The division between Charles Xavier and Cyclops has put the whole vision of the X-men into question. It started as a simple disagreement on how to move forward after the devastation in X-men Supreme Volume 6: Liberation Decimation. Xavier believed that the X-men had to work with General Grimshaw and President Kelly. Cyclops believed that was a mistake that would come back to haunt them in a major way. This clash has unfolded in many ways. The Drug War arc hinted that Xavier’s approach may have merit, but the events of Crimes Against Inhumanity somewhat vindicated Cyclops’ concerns.

It’s still not clear which side is right, but Cyclops and Charles Xavier agree on one thing. Nobody can afford to be wrong when Magneto is involved. His return has forced the X-men and X-Force to unite, albeit under some very tenuous circumstances. On top of that, they have to rely on the cooperation of the Scarlet Witch, someone the X-men have clashed with before during her time with the Brotherhood of Mutants.

While she has been an ally in the past as the ruler of Genosha, the Scarlet Witch has shown many times that her loyalty and love for her father shows few limits. However, the growing relationship she has been developing with Nightcrawler since X-men Supreme Issue 158: Power Brokers has added a new complication. The presence of the High Evolutionary has added another. Magneto doesn’t just have overwhelming power and a vision for his kind to drive him. He has an entire world in Asteroid M.

I’ve said before that this is Magneto's last-ditch effort. This is his Hail Mary play to win the day for the entire mutant race. He’s left nothing to chance. He and the High Evolutionary have exerted immense control over Asteroid M and the inhabitants that were promised paradise. The X-men, X-Force, and the Scarlet Witch are in his domain. Any chance at stopping him is slim at best and he hasn’t even shown the full extent of his power. This may very well be the darkest hour in the history of the X-men Supreme fanfiction series, but it may help set the stage for its finest as well. As always, I’ve prepared a preview of this omega-level showdown.

“YOU DO NOT BELONG HERE!” yelled the woman.

“Ack! I’m pretty sure you don’t belong in my lungs either,” coughed Psylocke.

Psylocke was quickly rendered immobile. Five other former humans tried to go for Storm, forcing Domino, Colossus, and Warpath to pick up the slack. Domino saved herself the bullets by jumping up and using the butt of her gun to strike two of the former humans that had a plant-like appearance. The other three included a father and his two young children, each of which had malleable ink-like skin. Warpath tried to get in their way, but he was reluctant to strike the young family.

“This ain’t good parenting, pal. Leave your kids out of this!” urged Warpath.

“WE ALL STAND FOR OUR WORLD! MAN AND CHILD ALIKE!” yelled the man.

Warpath tried to shove the trio aside. That proved messy because the two children shifted their ink-like form to become more vicious, allowing them to smother the Native American mutant.

“Ugh! Tastes…like mud,” choked Warpath.

“THIS WILL TASTE WORSE!” yelled the man.

Despite his children still covering Warpath, the man shifted his arm to form a club-like weapon. With it he slammed the Native American mutant across the face. It hit with such force that even his durable form couldn’t withstand it. He fell back, tumbling onto his hands and knees while the two children continued slithering around him in their ink form.

“James!” Storm cried out.

“He’s survived worse, Storm. Try and stay focused here!” urged Domino as she fought off an aerial attack from a few flying mutants, “It looks like they’re preparing for something and we need to be out of its way.”

As Storm looked out over the hordes of former humans, she saw what Domino meant. This coordinated attack didn’t attempt to overrun them with sheer numbers. Whoever was guiding the people wanted to keep everything focused and organized.

By now the former humans and animals were pulling back. That allowed the hundreds of other mutants to form an inescapable semi-circle around the X-men. Around that circle every mutant with firepower of some kind stood in the front, preparing to fire a simultaneous blast. Above them any mutant with flight powers along with various animals hovered above, ensuring they had nowhere to run.

“DESTROY THE SOURGE! PURGE OUR WORLD! DESTROY THE SCOURGE! PURGE OUR WORLD!” they all chanted in perfect unison.

“Storm, we’re out of time!” yelled Colossus, who was shoved back by a couple of sisters with gravity manipulation powers.

“I know. I’m…trying,” grunted Storm, her eyes flickering in a white hue, “These winds…are too…stubborn!”

The air around her grew hot and stale. With every ounce of strength, she tried to connect with these artificial forces of nature. They resisted her as if someone was actively pushing her back.

“Hnn…I know you’ll do it, Storm,” said Warpath, still choking on the ink-like mud that had covered his upper body, “If you can reach someone…as stubborn as me…you can make these winds your own.”

Storm’s gaze drifted towards Warpath. As she watched him fight off the inky sludge that consumed him, a new rush of determination surged through her. Asteroid M was so artificial and controlled. Trying to control it herself was a losing battle. Her only hope was to try a different approach.

‘Nature can never be controlled. It can only be harnessed. I may not be able to wrestle control away from you, Magneto. But I can still introduce a little chaos to the winds. Let’s see how your world handles true nature!’

No longer attempting to control the winds, Storm redirected her efforts. In an ominous display, her eyes erupted in a burst of white light. That did not dissuade the army of former humans unleashed their blast.

In an effort to thwart her response before it began, they unleashed their powerful attack. It included forces such as energy blasts, laser blasts, electrical shocks, fireballs, ice shards, telekinesis, and sonic waves. Psylocke, Warpath, Colossus, and Domino braced themselves for the impact. But it never came.

Before the blast struck, a powerful gust of wind swirled around Storm. From that gust, a dark cloud formed that overtook the X-men. In the process, it blew off the ghost-like woman from Psylocke and the ink-like sludge on Warpath. Once inside this cloud, the X-men were literally throw up into the wind just in time to avoid the onslaught.

“WHOA!” they all yelled out.

“It’s happening!” proclaimed Storm, her eyes still glowing.

As the X-men went flying across the lake, the winds continued to swirl. As the energy from so many different blasts converged on the cloud, it triggered a white-hot burst and unleashed an air blast that momentarily engulfed the whole lake in a blinding light.

It was quickly accompanied by a blast so powerful that it kicked up water from the lake and cause any winged being within a half-mile radius to falter. The force on the ground was even more intense, knocking waves of former mutants back and disrupting their once perfectly coordinated attack.

“DESTROY…SCOUGE…PURGE OUR…WORLD!” they all stammered as they tried to reorganize.

The cloud continued to grow, following completely random patterns that further disrupted the once peaceful lake. The swirling clouds continued to carry Storm, Colossus, Warpath, Psylocke, and Domino. It was not the smooth ride they were used to with Storm’s powers. Within moments they found themselves falling towards the lake where a group of hungry alligator-like creatures was waiting for them.

“Bloody hell…those things look hungry,” said Psylocke as she saw the creatures.

“Pull us up already, Storm! Some of us didn’t pack our swim suits!” yelled Domino.

“It’s not entirely up to me this time,” she replied.

The alligator creatures were already on the surface preparing to take a bite out of them. Then another sharp gust of wind blew in and pushed them further up into the sky. It was another disorienting blow to their senses, but it took them out of the line of fire. Some mutants from below still tried firing at them, but due to their lack of coordination they missed. They did not handle the chaos well. It was as if chaos itself was the X-men’s best weapon.

As Storm ascended with Psylocke, Domino, Colossus, and Warpath their path stabilized. They noticed the starry mosaic that made up the sky became wavy and disoriented. The once awe-inspiring sight was exposed as a façade. As it faltered, Storm gained greater control of the winds.

“Ugh! Now I know how a bug in a washing machine feels,” groaned Psylocke.

“You did it, Storm!” exclaimed Warpath, “You got control of the-whoa shit!”

The X-men felt more gusts blow around them. While they were moving forward, it was by no means a smooth ride. They were not the same winds they were used to on Earth.

“It would seem that control is a work-in-progress,” said Colossus, fighting off dizziness and nausea.

“I can only manage partial control,” said Storm as her eyes kept flashing, “I’m not actually guiding these winds. It’s only when the winds are guided by chaos that I can exert power over them.”

“So you basically have to screw it up and then put it back together?” said Domino, “Sounds tricky.”

“You have no idea,” groaned Storm.

“But it’s working,” said Warpath as he shook off his daze, “I think we’re onto something here. Throw a little dirt onto this bullshit paradise and we have the advantage.”

“You think the others know that?” asked Colossus.

“We’ll share it with them when we meet up,” said Storm as she focused harder, “Get ready for a bumpy ride because I’m taking us to City X. We need to pull the plug on Magneto’s new world. We need to show him he’s vulnerable.”

“In more ways than you think,” said Domino with a smirk.

Getting X-men Supreme to this point has been a long, tedious journey. I’ve seen Magneto go on a similar journey in the X-men comics. He’s someone who often walks the line between a hero and a villain, but he’s at his best when he taps into his villainous instincts to the utmost. It has made for some of the most powerful moments in the history of X-men. I hope to set up just such a moment in this fanfiction series, one that will complete the journey Magneto began back in X-men Supreme Volume 1: Mutant Revolution.

I want that culmination to be the biggest and best payoff it can possibly be. That’s why feedback and reviews at this point are more critical than ever. Regardless of whether you’re a Magneto fan, there’s no denying his influence on the X-men and the iconic moments he has helped forge. I want to create such a moment in this fanfiction series and I need to know I’m doing that right. Please, if you can, take the time to provide me your feedback and your comments. Either contact me directly or post them in previous issues. Either way is fine and I’d love to hear from you. Until next time, take care and best wishes. Xcelsior!

Jack

X-men Supreme Issue 171: High Evolution Part 3 is LIVE!

The X-men have a long list of iconic and memorable villains. I’ve utilized plenty in the X-men Supreme fanfiction series, including the lesser known ones like Mojo and Bastion. I even created one of my own in The Cambrian Explosion. However, for as long as the X-men are relevant, Magneto will always be the most compelling villain. He’s been a driving force of X-men Supreme since the earliest days of this fanfiction series. From their first encounter in X-men Supreme Issue 3: Competition to Magneto’s disappearance after the Time Bomb arc, his actions have guided the path of this fanfiction series.

That path is almost at its end. The High Evolution mark is set to be the kind of showdown that will determine whether the future of the X-men and the mutant race belongs to Magneto or Charles Xavier. I know that seems to happen with Magneto and the X-men every other week in the X-men comics. Believe me, I’m as aware of that as any X-men fan. That’s why I mean it when I say that this arc is an endgame of sorts for Magneto. What happens here will be definitive, more so than anything you’ll get in an X-men comic.

It’s the culmination of a story that has been folding since I began X-men Supreme back in 2010. From the moment Magneto founded the Brotherhood of Mutants, he has had a plan and a vision in mind. Like Charles Xavier, he sees the future of humans and mutants as a collision course, of sorts. There’s no avoiding it. There’s no getting around it. At some point, someone has to confront it. He knows what Xavier and the X-men want. He doesn’t believe that’s sufficient. That’s why he has teamed up with the High Evolutionary. Already, they’re putting themselves in a position to change the course of humans, mutants, and all life on Earth.

Together, he and the High Evolutionary have already done plenty to disrupt the current situation. They re-emerged at a time when the X-men are locked in a bitter divide between Charles Xavier and Cyclops. They’re also hitting at a time when nobody feels safe. Romulus decimated the world’s defenses in the Crimes Against Inhumanity arc. Neither President Kelly nor General Grimshaw feel like they have the answers anymore. They’re all reeling and Magneto is offering a way out.

However, as is often the case with Magneto, things are never as they seem. His vision almost always comes at a price, one much higher than anything Charles Xavier and his X-men are willing to pay. The nature of that price isn’t yet clear. So far, Magneto and the High Evolutionary have delivered on their promises, welcoming the entire mutant race and one million lucky humans into a new world they carved out of Asteroid M. From this world, they hope to start anew with a new race of mutants and mutated humans.

The only ones who is completely unconvinced of Magneto’s efforts are Charles Xavier and the Scarlet Witch. Knowing the stakes couldn’t be higher, the X-men and X-Force have put aside their differences and come together for this fateful mission. Given the extent of the divide and the mistakes they’ve made throughout X-men Supreme Volume 7: United and Divided, they couldn’t be more vulnerable. Now, as the full extent of Magneto’s vision emerges, they’ll have to make some difficult decisions that will come at a price. The extent of that price will become very clear in this issue.

X-men Supreme Issue 171: High Evolution Part 3

This is the point in the High Evolution arc where the conflict erupts and the stage is set for the final confrontation. It’s the X-men versus Magneto, Charles Xavier against his old friend. It’s a classic clash, one that has come to define the X-men over the years. I hope to capture that spirit in this fateful story within X-men Supreme. However, expect a few twists and turns along the way. The outcome is probably not one anyone is expecting, aside from those who have come to know this fanfiction series well.

I’m making the extra effort to ensure that the High Evolution arc is the biggest high point to date in X-men Supreme. It’s by far one of the most ambitious stories I’ve told in this fanfiction series to date. That’s why it’s more critical that I get extra feedback here. This issue is the start of a much bigger clash that’s set to conclude very soon. I need to know that I’m doing it right so please take the time to post comments 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. Xcelsior!

Jack

Back To Brutal Basics: X-23 #1

The following is my review of X-23 #1, which was posted on PopMatters.com.

On paper, the arc of a superhero is supposed to move forward with progress and growth occurring along the way. In practice, however, there are a lot of setbacks, regression, and pitfalls, but not all of them involve dying and coming back to life every once in a while. Certain characters have an iconic status built on decades of evolution, eventually settling into a particular status quo that best reflects who they are and the breadth of their appeal. To that extent, Laura "X-23" Kinney is still evolving.

Her story can't be considered new anymore, having played a part in a major X-men movie and held down multiple solo runs from the likes of Marjorie Liu and Tom Taylor. She also can't be classified as old, either. Her growth has been rapid since her debut in the X-men: Evolution cartoon, but her story tends to undergo more shifts than most.

There are times when Laura seeks to avoid the violent conditioning she endured under her creators, seeking to build a normal life, to the extent that anyone related to Wolverine can have one. She also goes through periods where she attempts to channel those violent skills for heroic purposes, just like Wolverine has. After taking the mantle of Wolverine for a time under Tom Taylor, Laura is at a point where she no longer hides from her bloody past or her violent skills. However, she still has some growing to do and not just because she has a little sister and a pet wolverine.

This is the situation that Mariko Tamaki and Juan Cabal inherit in X-23 #1. Laura's past is still chasing her and her future is still in flux. She has more to lose now than she did before with Gabby in her life. Even though she's still a teenager, she can't afford to be as irresponsible as most teenagers, as the Peter Parkers and Kamala Khans of the world can attest. Between having the baggage of Logan's legacy and dealing with an overly-energetic sister with a pet wolverine, Laura has her work cut out for her.

Tamaki and Cabal still have her pushing forward. The stakes are pretty standard for any clone/daughter of Wolverine. There are still people in the Marvel universe who think it's a good idea to clone Logan and make living weapons. How anyone can still believe that will lead to anything other than a brutal death is laughable, if not absurd at this point. Nobody even tries to make excuses. They're just willing fodder for Laura's continued evolution.

While the setup is basic, involving a generic threat with ties to Alchemax, Tamaki doesn't focus too much on the slashing and stabbing that's standard for any X-23 series. Those moments are there. There's even a hulking lizard man thrown into the mix, which helps mix things up from the standard hired goons that Laura is known for decimating. However, the real meat of the story is in Laura's personal journey.

As she's navigating the standard Wolverine-styled action sequences with Gabby, she reflects on her upcoming birthday. Being a clone, that brings complications that have little to do with cake frosting. Laura starts out with mixed, but ambivalent feelings on the matter. She initially gives the impression that it's not a big deal. Gabby, as she's been doing since she showed up in All-New Wolverine, gets her to reconsider and is lovably adorable every step of the way.

It also helps that Laura and Gabby aren't the only clones dealing with identity issues and birthday drama. After meeting up with Beast at the Xavier Institute, they cross paths with the Stepford Cuckoos. As it just so happens, they're celebrating their birthday. That helps make birthdays, in general, a bigger issue and one that acts as a catalyst for the story, albeit indirectly.

As is often the case with plots involving clones and living weapons, there's a larger agenda unfolding behind the scenes, even before the stabbing starts. It involves Alchemax, but it also involves the Stepford Cuckoos as well. Tamaki even digs a bit into the Cuckoos' history, some of which hasn't been referenced since the latter end of Grant Morrison's run on New X-men. It helps raise the stakes and complicates Laura's new mission. Unlike lizard men throwing trucks, this isn't an issue she can resolve with her claws.

While the connection between Laura's mission and the Cuckoos is established, things don't get violent that quickly. Things even diverge somewhat as Laura debates the merits of birthdays while the Cuckoos reveal some affiliations that would probably not sit well with any former living weapon. There's a distinct sense of inevitability that emerges once the agenda of the Cuckoos emerge. Even though part of it still involves celebrating a birthday, it seems unavoidable that they're going to clash with Laura and Gabby.

That conflict doesn't manifest initially and that's not necessarily a bad thing. X-23 #1 spends more time exploring how Laura sees herself as she continues to navigate a world where she's technically an escaped lab experiment. Her reservations about making a big deal about her birthday reveal that she still struggles with an identity crisis on some levels. She keeps trying to forge her own path, but can't escape the fact that she's a clone. The Stepford Cuckoos are in the same boat, although their efforts don't come off nearly as healthy.

It's a struggle that has been plaguing Laura since her creation, but the fact that she's at a point where she's uncertain about the merits of birthdays still counts as progress on some levels. While the details surrounding the plot are still fairly standard, X-23 #1 still succeeds in sending the message that Laura is still evolving and she's even making progress. Having a quirky little sister with a pet wolverine actually helps more than it complicates things.

Some of that progress still comes off as only partial, though. While X-23 #1 does plenty to create new conflicts, it leaves a lot of unanswered questions. There's no explanation as to why Laura is going by X-23 instead of Wolverine. There's also little in terms of connections to the larger X-men continuity. Even though Laura and Gabby are current members of X-men Red, this affiliation has no real impact.

The story still succeeds enough in terms of putting Laura on a new path, one that will likely affect how she approaches future birthdays. Her growth, as a character, is beyond dispute at this point. She is every bit as entrenched in the X-men comics as Logan, Deadpool, and Doop. She still has plenty of room to grow and if she can just start seeing the world the same way Gabby sees snack food, then she'll be just fine.

Final Score: 7 out of 10

X-men Supreme Issue 171: High Evolution Part 3 PREVIEW!

These are desperate times for the X-men Supreme fanfiction series. Magneto is back with the mysterious High Evolutionary at his side. After disappearing at the conclusion of X-men Supreme Volume 4: Politics of Fear, he’s returned with both his sanity and his willingness to end the human/mutant conflict once and for all. Whether it’s in the X-men comics or a fanfiction series, this is and always has been Magneto’s ultimate endgame. He doesn’t just seek to confront the issue. He seeks to win it for all of mutant kind.

That has dire implications for Professor Xavier and his X-men. They’ve already had a taste of those implications through clashes in Uprising, Overlord, Kings and Tyrants, and the Cambrian Explosion. At every turn, Magneto has shown a willingness to take bold chances and sacrifice innocent lives. His drive to solidify mutants as the dominant species on the planet is without parallel. Since X-men Supreme began, this is what I’ve built around Magneto’s character.

From the earliest days of X-men Supreme Volume 1: Mutant Revolution, I’ve had an endgame in mind for Magneto. It has changed and evolved over the years as this fanfiction series has developed. I knew that at some point, Magneto would have a chance to either achieve his ultimate goal or suffer complete defeat. The plans he hatched from Uprising to the Cambrian Explosion were stages, of sorts. To him, they were supposed to make the process of mutant ascension easier. Charles Xavier and his X-men made sure they weren’t.

The plan he has in mind for High Evolution is on a very different level. It is, and always has been, his ultimate backup plan. This is Magneto’s final recourse if the rest of his plans didn’t pan out or didn’t achieve what he wanted. That means he has left nothing to chance. He’s done everything within his considerable power to prevent Xavier and his X-men from thwarting him. Don’t expect him to make mistakes this time.

If that weren’t bad enough, Magneto is striking at a time when the X-men are at their weakest. Since the beginning of X-men Supreme Volume 7: United and Divided, there has been a schism between Charles Xavier and Cyclops. While Xavier still leads the X-men under the Mutant Monitoring Initiative alongside General Grimshaw and President Kelly, Cyclops has formed his own team in X-Force. Their disagreement over the future of mutants have led to great upheavals, culminating in the recent attacks by Romulus in Crimes Against Inhumanity.

Those upheavals left the X-men and X-Force weakened. They also gave Magneto the perfect opportunity to send his message to an anxious, vulnerable world. Despite his past efforts to destroy the human race, many have heeded his calls. Many have jumped at the chance to join his ultimate plan to create a new world for mutants. One million lucky souls even managed to board transports that took them to this world, which he calls Asteroid M. The only price was that they had to become mutants.

However, Charles Xavier and his X-men know Magneto’s history better than anyone. They know that there’s always a higher price behind the promise. That price, combined with the unknowns surrounding the High Evolution, have created a situation that will push the X-men to their limits and beyond at the worst possible time. With the next issue, that time is just about to run out. As always, I’ve prepared a preview that should hint at just how bad it's going to get for the X-men.

“So where are you blokes from?” asked Psylocke to several new mutants as they lounged near the lake.

“Seoul, South Korea,” answered one with bluish-gray skin.

“Rome, Italy,” said a woman with glowing eyes.

“Johannesburg, South Africa,” said a young man no older than 13.

“New Jersey. If you don’t know the country, then how the fuck did you make it here?” said a stocky, middle-aged man wearing sunglasses.

Psylocke rolled her eyes. While many had undergone dramatic changes, some still hadn’t evolved out of their personality.

“And what made you want to come here?” she asked them.

“Life back home wasn’t getting any better,” said the South Korean solemnly, “I never fit in with my family or friends. I was always an outcast.”

“Same here. Plus, I had a criminal record that I could not escape,” said the Italian woman.

“I probably would have had one if I had stayed. That’s why my mother jumped at the first opportunity to get me here,” said the South African boy.

“So where’s your mom now? She get powers that make her invisible or something?” asked the guy from New Jersey.

“Actually…yes,” said the boy with a humored grin.

In a brief flash that caused the man to drop his beer, the boy’s mother appeared in front of him. She had been testing her new powers and returned to her son just in time to startle the immature man. It earned a round of laughs from the others. Even Psylocke found herself laughing.

They all had reasons for leaving Earth. Most of these reasons were perfectly valid. It seemed worth the price of becoming a mutant. So far, there had been no ill-effects of such a choice. That still didn’t mean it wasn’t a possibility and that’s what led Psylocke to probe deeper.

While Psylocke continued interacting with random people, the rest of the group surveyed the lake from afar. They saw few signs of distress. Everyone seemed perfectly happy with their new lives so far. If there was a threat, it wasn’t obvious just yet.

“How much longer is Psylocke going to keep mingling?” asked Domino, “Is this just her way of filling the void while her boyfriend is stuck on injured reserve?”

“You’re compassion for your fellow teammates is impeccable, Domino,” said Warpath dryly.

“It wasn’t an insult. I don’t get what she hopes to gain here. I’m starting to think we’re wasting our time.”

“It’s never a waste to make connections,” said Colossus.

“Sounds like a motto from the Russian mob,” quipped Domino.

“It is,” said the Russian, “These people did not conspire with Magneto from the beginning. They heard his call and they followed it. That makes them potential allies.”

“And enemies,” noted Warpath.

“That is true, but that only makes our efforts more important,” said Colossus, “If Kitty was here, she would point out that by making these people mutants, Magneto has effectively created a million-mutant army for himself.”

“And she would probably tell that right to everyone’s faces as well so maybe it’s a good thing she’s not here,” said Domino, which earned him a look from Colossus.

The team chemistry was still a work-in-progress. Joining X-Force with the X-men so abruptly made for a difficult transition. There was still tension between the two teams. It remained unspoken for the most part as they tried to stay focused on the mission. That was easier for some more than others.

“You’ve been pretty quiet, Storm. What’s your take? Are we wasting our time here or what?” asked Warpath.

“I wish I could offer some input, but I’ve been a bit distracted here,” said Storm, who kept shifting uncomfortably as she looked around.

“Is that because Warpath works up a sweat when he’s paranoid?” joked Domino, earning her yet another harsh scold.

“It’s because this artificial environment feels so…mechanical,” she said.

“Mechanical?” questioned Warpath.

“I wish Beast were here to offer a nine-syllable word to describe it. That’s all I can come up with because that’s how it feels to me,” she said as she gazed out over the lake, “My powers are closely connected to the forces of nature. However, there’s nothing natural about these forces. This lake, the sky, the air, the winds…they’re all so artificial.”

“How is it any different than the Danger Room?” asked Colossus.

“The Danger Room as a certain intricacy to it,” Storm went on, “That’s why it never bothers me. But everything here on Asteroid M feels like it’s guided. Every light breeze feels as though something or someone was placing it there.”

“Magneto always struck me as a control freak,” commented Warpath.

“Not like this,” she said, her voice sounding more distressed, “Magneto is the master of magnetism. Not the master of nature. I just don’t like how this feels. It’s like at any given moment, everything within this Asteroid could turn on us.”

Storm hugged her shoulders as more light breezes swept across the lake. Every other mutant seemed to enjoy it while it sent a shiver up the African woman’s spine. Warpath offered a comforting gesture, which tempted Domino to make another comment. A stern look from Colossus helped restrain her. If what Storm sensed was real, then it may offer some telling clues.

While they mused over Storm’s insights, Psylocke returned from her conversations with these new mutants. She looked just as unnerved as Storm. Apparently making connections hadn’t set her mind at ease.

“What’s wrong, Psylocke? Are the locals busting your chops that much?” asked Domino.

“Not really,” said Psylocke as she looked back at the five individuals she had just met, “In fact, everybody has been very polite. Even the ones who hated mutants before seem to have done an about face.”

“So then why do you look like they just threatened to drown you in this lake?” asked Warpath suspiciously.

“It’s their minds,” said Psylocke strongly, “They all sound like they’re completely in control of their faculties. However, I can’t pick up on any stray thoughts.”

“Could their minds be shielded?” asked Colossus.

“If they were, then I would have sensed it the moment we arrived,” Betsy reasoned, “They may have just gained amazing new powers, but they’re still ordinary blokes. There’s no way that every one of them could effectively guard their thoughts like this.”

“I take this means we may be dealing with a powerful psychic,” said Warpath.

“That’s where it gets even trickier,” she said cryptically, “Their minds may function normally, but the nuts and bolts don’t feel normal. If anything, they feel…”

“Artificial?” offered Storm.

Psylocke looked at Storm with a raised eyebrow. It sounded like she wasn’t the only one sensing this. It added to the mystery as well as the potential for danger.

“Since English is not my first language to begin with, I will assume that this is cause for concern,” said Colossus.

“It may run deeper than that, luv,” said Psylocke, “This whole world has the making of an elaborate circus act. Everything looks like a natural ecosystem. It may even function like one. But there’s definitely some other force at work here.”

“Then I suppose the important questions for us are how is it being controlled and who is doing the controlling?” said Storm.

“Why do we even need to ask who?” questioned Domino, “This is Magneto’s ploy last I checked.”

“That’s one assumption we probably shouldn’t make right now,” said Psylocke, “We know the kind of damage Magneto can is capable of. It’s the High Evolutionary that has me really worried.”

The High Evolution arc is a culmination of a great many stories I’ve been developing over the course of the X-men Supreme fanfiction series. The X-men comics make numerous attempts at stories on that scale. Some never come to pass. Others have made for some of the greatest moments in the history of X-men. I want X-men Supreme to capture the spirit of the latter. That’s what I hope to do with this finals showdown between the X-men and Magneto.

The past, present, and future of this fanfiction series is about to change in a major way. Those changes are always risky in the X-men comics. The same holds true for X-men Supreme. As such, it’s more important than ever that I continue to get feedback. Please take the time to send me your reviews in whatever form you can. Either post them directly in the issue or contact me. Either way is fine as long as you review. Until next time, take care and best wishes. Xcelsior!

Jack

X-men Supreme Issue 170: High Evolution Part 2 is LIVE!

Another monumental upheaval has descended upon the world of X-men Supreme. Magneto is back and he has the High Evolutionary as an ally. Charles Xavier and his X-men are still more divided than they’ve ever been. Every now and then, this fanfiction series undergoes some dramatic changes. I don’t think I’m exaggerating when I say that the High Evolution arc will bring the biggest changes to date.

It’s the culmination of a story I set out to tell after the events of X-men Supreme Issue 148: New Divide. I knew at the time that I was taking a chance. If you’ve been following the X-men comics, then you understand why my timing couldn’t have been worse. Just as the X-men are coming together again in the comics, I throw a huge schism into the mix within this fanfiction series. I would even argue it’s a bigger schism than the one Cyclops and Wolverine had in the comics. By making it between Cyclops and Charles Xavier, the emotions are that much higher and the choices are that much harder.

The division has caused so much tension and strain throughout X-men Supreme Volume 7: United and Divided. It’s not just between Cyclops and Professor Xavier either. Jean Grey has to deal with her former lover opposing the X-men. Rogue has to deal with Nightcrawler and Mystique being on another team. Then, there’s the Scarlet Witch’s unexpected role. To say there has been plenty of tension would be a gross understatement.

It’s been building steadily through arcs like Drug War and Crimes Against Inhumanity. With every triumph and failure, the strain between the X-men and X-Force grows. Cyclops is feeling it. Charles Xavier is feeling it. President Kelly and General Grimshaw are feeling it too and they’re margin for error has effectively vanished. In other words, Magneto couldn’t have picked a better time to return to the world of X-men Supreme.

He returns to a world that is beleaguered and broken, especially after the events of Crimes Against Inhumanity. Nobody feels safe anymore. Humans and mutants alike are tired of all the conflict. Anyone offering a better way is bound to get attention and Magneto has shown many times before that he’s not afraid to make a statement. The High Evolution arc began with him announcing to the world his plans for Asteroid M. The impact of that announcement is just starting to unfold.

Beyond just acting as a culmination of X-men Supreme Volume 7: United and Divided, High Evolution is also Magneto’s ultimate endgame. He’s had a vision in place since X-men Supreme Volume 1: Mutant Revolution. Despite all the failures and mishaps along the way, from Uprising to the Cambrian Explosion, Magneto has never waned in his vision. He’s going to see it through this time. Humans and mutants alike are going to feel it and that begins in this issue.

X-men Supreme Issue 170: High Evolution Part 2

This is probably the most excited I’ve been about an arc I did my own version of the Phoenix Saga back during X-men Supreme Volume 3: Ashes of Hope. Building this fanfiction series in a way that allows me to tell stories on this scale gives me an opportunity to tell an X-men story that has a special impact. It’s not enough to just pit the X-men against Magneto again. It has to have real dramatic stakes and that’s what I’m hoping to achieve with High Evolution.

For those who have been following this fanfiction series, I hope you’ve enjoyed the long and arduous process of pursuing that goal. I’ve every intention of making this arc the best to date for X-men Supreme. As always, I urge everyone to provide feedback on this and every other aspect of this fanfiction series. Either post your comments directly in the issue or contact me directly. Either way is fine as long as you review. I’m always happy to chat X-men. Until next time, take care and best wishes. Xcelsior!

Jack