New Mutants #18: Fear and Loathing in Krakoa

CHARACTERS: Vita Ayala again sidesteps the truth of what Amahl is up to, and as a consequence I found myself feeling more empathy for the plight of those he is manipulating and less concerned with what he is actually up to. But whatever it is he has been clever in making Wolfsbane his agent and she has no problem bringing Gabby to him when it looks like she can upset his game. And Rahne’s actions and willingness to hand Gabby over trouble me even more than Shadow King himself. As the Crucible event takes place Cosmar is clearly upset by the hypocrisy she feels Dani is exhibiting, and I for one am looking forward to that being addressed. And whereas last issue I wasn’t keen on the way Anole attacked Honey Badger, this time out the younger kids dilemma was a little more understandable. I still don’t like the assertion that Gabby is somehow not as entitled to her opinion, but they did at least come off a little more valid in their opinion this time.
Even Gabby is second-guessing herself and the predictable result of her discussion with James at least shows that she tried to warn someone, in case she gets subverted later. And while this crisis of faith unfolds in front of us there is another mental struggle going on and it’s intriguing to see not only Gabby worrying whether she should rat on her friends or risk them getting hurt, but also Karma facing up to the understanding that the impact her decision will potentially have consequences for her and the nation of Krakoa. Shan doubting her own motives also plays into the duality and doubt created by a persons true motivation, just the same as Gabby. Her duty to her brother and the memory of their long standing issues is a thorny one and not something so easily rectified.
STORY: So as several complex problems are being hashed out I find this issue to be more involved than just a rite of passage and redemption story. My issues with the Crucible notwithstanding (and there are a few) I had to admit this one drew me in. Throughout there is some real pathos playing out between the two friends in the arena of battle and her motivation and doubt are laid bare for all to see. And this is what makes this one of the best titles in the Dawn of X narrative for me. The pay-off was also offset perfectly for me by the lead up to it. Much like the Storm/Callisto match in Marauders #17 there is the familiar introduction by Silver Samurai, and then the battle begins. Not only did we get a powerful verbal exchange between Dani and Shan and recognition of the respect these two have always had for each other, but the physical struggle had some true gravity to it also. This one is a little more drawn out than the last, and was similarly meaningful in it’s poignancy. The same result is reached as the best friend strikes the killing blow.
ART: And as strong as the imagery was in the physical confrontation the mental battle of wills going on with the children is also one with some striking imagery. Once again Gabby is forthright in her opinion and there is real mettle in her as she doubles down and tries to convince the others that what she is saying is right and it’s clear it comes from a place of true understanding, even as they throw it back in her face. Rod Reis uses some strong visuals and the images of her past problems with her sisters brings some clarity and purpose to her argument and we are reminded that she does have a very valid point. As with the Crucible action scene there is some key imagery here as he shows her anguish not only in these memories but in her expression. All of which adds to her argument.
Even in the closing we still are left in doubt, not only as to the fate of Gabby but as to whether all of Karma’s efforts were in vain. Did Tran also get brought back? And if so will he be brought back damaged as he was in the past, or will this be a whole new chapter for him and a new outlook we haven’t seen since Marvel Team Up #100? The psychic rescue report did a smart job of not only refreshing the events of New Mutants: Dead Souls, but also explained why it was the Soulsword was unable to repair the damage, as well as the failed attempts at psychic surgery by some of the foremost telepaths available, thus ushering in the need for the Crucible in the first place. What I also noticed at the close of the story is Shan chose to be resurrected with her metal leg. Much will be made of this by fans but I will assert that, given her character, this is a deliberate choice and this speaks volumes of who she is as a character. Not least to wear the battle scars of the past with pride, as a reminder of where she has come from, but also to remind us there is never a need to be ashamed of who you are to the extent you change vital parts of yourself, physically or mentally. Even if you can be reincarnated.