New Mutants #13 Fight or FLight

Last week’s X of Sword’s installments followed the Krakoan champions start their quest for their swords. In New Mutants #13, we follow two characters that already had their swords, Magik and Cypher. While Magik is present and is granted some slight glimpses of motivation and characterization, Ed Brisson places the full focus on Doug Ramsey, his relationship to Krakoa and Warlock, and his upcoming role in the contest of champions against Krakoa.

The emotions Brisson wanted to get across is clear. Cypher is the underdog, clearly out of his league. A boy who knows languages in a battle with immortal warriors, retired goddesses, and rulers of hell dimensions. The character has been regressed away from any signs of battle competence he has shown over the last decade, making sure we see the same out of his element boy that died saving his friends. Despite the characterization feeling forced to fit the narrative, the moments it provides are rewarding, giving a touch of camaraderie in the middle of a serious, deadly event.

Rod Reis continues to deliver his panels in his unique, almost painted looking style on art and colors. The style fits this issue perfectly, lending itself to the more surreal and unusual nature of both Krakoa and Warlock. Altogether, it’s clear why much of the fandom has fallen in love with Reis’s work. Personally, there’s something about the faces that leaves me uneasy. Doug’s eyes could almost be their own character, and sometimes (such as above) I’m not sure what they are trying to tell me… But personal hang-ups aside, there is no denying that Reis’s work is beautiful.