X-Men Legend Returns to Expand on Classic Story

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Unquestionably, Chris Claremont is hailed as the most impactful writer in X-Men history, and ranks among the most significant comic book authors overall. His 16-year tenure on Uncanny X-Men, initially a flagging title, was transformed into a vibrant series, moving the X-Men from relative obscurity to unprecedented heights of popularity before the Marvel Cinematic Universe era. Throughout his career, Claremont has frequently revisited the mutant universe he played a crucial role in elevating, crafting new narratives and exploring alternative timelines. Now, Chris Claremont is back with the mutants, penning a tale set within one of his many side-stories – the limited series Wolverine and Kitty Pryde.

This fresh comic serves as a direct continuation and expansion of the original “Kitty Pryde and Wolverine” series, published between 1984 and 1985. What makes this narrative unique is its personal connection to writer Chris Claremont. During the debut of the initial volume, Wolverine was one of Marvel’s most beloved characters, a status significantly influenced by Claremont’s work with him. Moreover, Kitty Pryde has consistently been among Claremont’s favorite characters.

What You Need to Know to Dive In

The series “Kitty Pryde and Wolverine” – a six-issue limited run – unfolded during Chris Claremont’s iconic X-Men era. This story focuses on Kitty and her father, Carmen, who finds himself in trouble with the Japanese yakuza. In an attempt to rescue him, Kitty encounters assassins. However, she is captured by one of these assassins, Ogun, who was once Wolverine’s mentor. Under Ogun’s tutelage, Kitty undergoes brainwashing and rigorous training to become a highly skilled assassin. Her unique phasing abilities are combined with Ogun’s unmatched expertise, revealing her hidden potential in the art of killing.

Following her disappearance, Wolverine embarked on a journey to Japan in search of the X-Men’s stand-in sister, Kitty. Upon arrival, he rekindles relationships with Mariko and Yukio, who decide to help him locate and save Kitty. Simultaneously, Ogun notices Wolverine’s return to Japan and sends Kitty to eliminate him. She nearly succeeds until Yukio intervenes, causing her to regain consciousness. Stricken with guilt over what Ogun had done to her, Kitty struggles to overcome it, but Wolverine encourages her to fight back against Ogun. In the end, they locate the assassin, and although she is tempted due to her training, Kitty chooses not to take his life. However, Ogun capitalizes on this hesitation, prompting Wolverine to terminate the assassin himself.

In this tale, Kitty Pryde’s character significantly evolves as it serves as her journey towards maturity. This narrative unfolds not long after her split with Colossus, marking a significant shift from her role as the ‘little sister’ figure. Through this storyline, she steps into the limelight as an individual hero, taking on darker and more mature responsibilities. This arc sets her costume design for decades to come and bestows upon her the name Shadowcat, a title that has since become synonymous with Kitty.

What the New Story Promises

The story with Wolverine and Kitty Pryde resumes post their victory over Ogun, but prior to their return to the U.S. This continuation offers a closer look at the aftermath of the last issue, where Kitty grapples with her newfound abilities. Although she has freed herself from Ogun’s influence, she shies away from utilizing the combat skills she acquired during that time. Meanwhile, Wolverine encourages her to perfect these fighting techniques, viewing it as an opportunity for Kitty to evolve into a completely different type of hero. He recognizes the potential these abilities hold for her, despite Kitty’s reluctance to embrace this aspect of herself.

In the initial part of the comic, Kitty and Yukio receive their costumes, and it’s made clear that Kitty is continuing her fight against Wolverine as per his instructions. Deep down, she yearns for a normal life, but Wolverine is determined to help her understand that going back to normal isn’t an option given her past experiences. Towards the end of the issue, Kitty is roused by the sound of Wolverine unsheathing his claws. She ascends the stairs and stumbles into a vision where she finds Wolverine and Mariko trapped. Both are dressed traditionally Japanese attire, and on the final page, a colossal snow golem lets out a thunderous roar.

Re-immersing in a classic tale, Wolverine and Kitty Pryde’s return provides long-term Marvel enthusiasts a delightful opportunity to reacquaint themselves with a cherished segment of comic book lore. Simultaneously, it offers novice readers a chance to delve more profoundly into two characters that are pivotal in numerous narratives. As the story unfolds, it promises to disclose hidden truths and embark on thrilling journeys – especially with Claremont steering the ship.

Wolverine and Kitty Pryde #1 is on sale now.

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2025-05-01 05:10