Exceptional X-Men returns this week as it continues to probe what it means to be an idealistic youth with mutant abilities. So far, Kitty Pryde and Emma Frost have done their best to get these teens comfortable with their powers and with being mutants. But what if an outside influence penetrates their “exceptional” bubble? We find out in Exceptional X-Men #7 as Axo continues to grow a relationship with a strange horned mutant.
While Axo is the central focus in Exceptional X-Men #7, Emma Frost gets the main focus at the start of the issue. Carmen Carnero draws you into her fabulous world through some beautiful montaging and full-page splashes. We see her dressing to impress, the men she’s conquered, and how she lived the dream in Krakoa. It may seem almost random to see Krakoa again at the start, but it ties into a statement by Emma later in the issue.
From there, the issue takes us to the team’s training. The team is still a bit green but trying its best. Notably absent is Axo, who takes center stage from here on out.
Her many loves.
Credit: Marvel
If you’ve ever had a mentor, you might think Axo is in good hands, or you worry for him. Of course, the series has shown that Axo’s mentor, Sheldon, probably has bad intentions, especially considering the cover hints that he may be pure evil. As he shows Axo what he’s up to in his business, Axo questions things but goes along with it. It’s clear Axo is getting confidence boosts from him, which is influencing his ability to see he’s being manipulated.
Write Eve Ewing delves into Axo’s personality in a key conversation with Sheldon. In it, we learn his powers to manipulate people’s emotions, which makes it very hard to know if anyone is genuine with him. Why he thinks Sheldon is authentic with a history like that is anybody’s guess, but maybe he’s just hopeful this one is different. Ewing uses this to blow up Axo’s return to the group, which makes for a distressing turn of events. The fact that this leads to an alarming cliffhanger where Axo needs his friends more than ever is tragic and gripping. You’ll worry for him and need that next issue pronto.
Exceptional X-Men #7 excels in character-driven storytelling, balancing Emma Frost’s stylish and reflective opening with Axo’s emotionally charged arc. Eve Ewing’s writing makes Axo’s predicament feel painfully honest, and the art enhances every moment, from Emma’s glamour to Axo’s descent into uncertainty. While the pacing stumbles slightly in transitions, the issue’s powerful ending ensures readers will be eager for the next installment.
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