Ironheart #9: Setting Up a Playdate

Riri heads to none other than Wakanda to continue her search for those behind the Ten Rings terrorist organization in Ironheart #9, but she doesn’t exactly get a warm welcome!

First off, Riri and Shuri seem like an obvious pair that would be really close friends. I have been excited to see their team up since it was announced. Two incredibly intelligent young leaders of their community shouldn’t have any problems relating to one another, right?

Not so much.

I was shocked to see that the pair almost immediately started arguing. These two are possibly so similar that they actually clashed when meeting. Riri’s no nonsense attitude rubs Shuri the wrong way and it was just downhill from there. It’s this type of raw character emotion that has made this series so much fun to read thus far, so it’s nice to see that trend continue.

There is an attack on Wakanda that eventually forces the duo to unite, but the invasion isn’t what takes precedence in this story. As with previous issues, the most important aspects of this book are in the relationships being forged with the expansive Marvel Universe. This series has found Riri adjusting her behavior and work ethic to a lot of different people, both local friends and famous superheroes, but Shuri isn’t someone she was prepared for. Luckily, the two eventually realize they simply got off on the wrong foot together and make up, but it’s their actual journey together that makes this book so good. This is signified by the full page splash of the two hoisting up the flag of Wakanda.

The artwork is once again stunning thanks to a creative team that seems to have a solid vision. Wakanda steals the spotlight with it’s impressive landscape that feels truly at home for Ironheart. The panel of her crying as she flies overhead pretty much sums up everything you need to know. While I’m not as big of a fan of the blank backgrounds, there is still plenty of detail utilized to make the panels pop like they should. Overall, the art accentuates the story being told in a great way, and honestly, what more could you want?

While the budding friendship between Riri and Shuri is a delight to watch unfold, the cliffhanger ending shows that much larger developments are still occurring. The sister of Midnight’s Fire arrives poised to become a turncoat for the terrorist organization, setting up yet another thrill ride for next issue. This well-rounded experience is exactly why the series, and this book, works so well. It’s just great storytelling!