Is Calico the Most Powerful New Mutant in Marvel’s Universe?

In issue #14 of “Uncanny X-Men”, we continue the storyline “Dark Artery”. The youthful X-Men group, called the Outliers, are on an adventure that takes them near Man-Thing, one of Marvel‘s esteemed guardians. Their travels lead them deep into the caves beneath Haven House, the present headquarters of Rogue’s band of X-Men, and to a door that only the four of them can unlock. This discovery leads to some fascinating revelations, such as the potential power of Outlier Calico, whose abilities seem to interact with her horse Ember in an extraordinary way. Some readers have been particularly impressed by Calico’s powers, which could potentially reach Omega level – the highest degree of mutant power within the Marvel Universe.

The Outliers have sparked much debate since their introduction, not only due to their fresh, young mutant abilities and characters, but also because of the prophecy of the Endling hinted in Uncanny X-Men #1. Characters like Rogue, Gambit, and Wolverine discovered from the dragon Sadurag that one of the Outliers would be the Endling, the mutant who would mark the end of mutants. The recent disclosures about Calico and Ember in Uncanny X-Men #14 may provide a significant hint as to who this Endling truly is.

Calico’s Powers — and History — Are Different than What Fans Expected

In issue #13 of the Uncanny X-Men, Deathdream led the Outliers to a cavern guarded by Man-Thing. In issue #14, the Outliers attempt to convince Man-Thing they are not afraid of him by revealing their identities and powers. Among them is Calico, who describes her connection with her horse Ember and her ability to bestow any power she can imagine upon herself and Ember. While readers have primarily seen her using fire-based abilities, this revelation suggests that Calico’s powers are far greater than previously thought. Her ability to grant any power she can imagine places her power level at an exceptionally high, nearly reality-altering level. Given the nature of her powers, it seems likely that Calico will be classified as an Omega class mutant, as there is no other suitable classification for someone whose powers are only limited by their imagination.

first, her current horse Ember is not her original one; the original Ember perished in a fire, and this new Ember mysteriously appeared without explanation. Second, Calico is crying out of fear over what exactly this new Ember represents. These disclosures make Calico a prime candidate for the Endling among the Outliers. Her powers are so vast that she could potentially destroy any mutant, and the uncertainty surrounding Ember suggests her powers may have created it after her first horse’s death, or perhaps Ember is an unknown entity bonded to Calico, which could make it the Endling. Everything about this situation remains intriguing.

Calico Is the Most Interesting of the Outliers

To date, “Dark Artery” stands out as the top story within the “From the Ashes” X-Men series, skillfully penned by writer Gail Simone and artist David Marquez. This narrative is captivating and has already unveiled the harsh consequences of Gambit’s new abilities, while also introducing a brand new mutant character, Henrietta Benjamin. Furthermore, it offers hints about why the X-Men found themselves at Haven House. As Simone indicated, “Uncanny X-Men” would lean towards Southern Gothic horror, and “Dark Artery” is delivering on that promise seamlessly.

As a die-hard cinema enthusiast, let me share my excitement over the latest #14 installment of “Uncanny X-Men”. The disclosures regarding Calico and Ember are monumental! If what Calico claims about mutant powers holds true, she’s an unparalleled powerhouse, and the enigma surrounding Ember, and its connection to the Endling prophecy, only adds to the intrigue. With the Outliers set to encounter Henrietta, it seems they might require every ounce of Calico’s strength to ensure their survival. The suspense is killing me!

Uncanny X-Men #14 is on sale now.

Read More

2025-05-21 06:18