X-Man versus X-Man, Wolverine versus one of his own students and a God slammed by a mutant one-two punch. Wolverine and the X-Men #12 gives us a powerhouse and emotionally powerful showdown in a nasty corner of this new world ruled by the Phoenix Five. Jason Aaron and Chris Bachalo deliver yet another issue packed with action, humor and the unexpected.
The heart of this issue is Rachel Summers. You don’t have the know Rachel’s tragic future history chronicled in the Chris Claremont/John Romita Jr era but knowing it makes this issue more impactful. Scott and Jean’s daughter from the future escaped her future life where he was a hound. In the Phoenix’s new world order Rachel is tasked with hunting again. Once Rachel tracks her “prey” the result is shocking and hints of what’s to come in future chapters of AvX. Jason Aaron’s portrayal of Rachel’s inner struggle is a standout of this issue.
This issue was so powerful it felt like it could have been a major chapter of the main mega series. This is definitely a tie-in issue you should not miss. Gladiator and a Shiar strike force were already on their way to kill the Phoenix. I can only imagine his wrath when he learns what’s happened to his son after Kid Gladiator took on one too many Avengers!
By Editor