Not many heroes in the Marvel Universe have an outright offspring. And even fewer of those are actually at the age where hero-ing is even an option. And at that point what do you have – a lifetime of living up to a legacy or defining your own destiny. The new Biinary who “appeared” during Carol’s confrontation with Vox is still learning who “she” is, but now that her “mother” has vanished that job has become a lot harder. In Captain Marvel # 38 – which is Part One of the Trails arc – along comes a Spider-Woman to begin the Adventures in Binary sitting.
Captain Marvel # 38
“Trials: Part One”
Writer: Kelly Thompson
Artist: Juan Frigeri; Alvaro Lopez
Color Artist: Jordie Bellaire
Letterer & Production: VC’s Clayton Cowles
I’m sorry if you’re one of the people who feel the “cat in a tree” crisis is cliche. When it works, it works – which is the case with Binary’s activities. While Jessica would prefer “she” fried some bigger fish, Binary likes cats. At the moment Binary’s dilemma is double – her creator/mentor is missing and her original purpose is over. Kelly Thompson has given readers a 90 degree spin on the Kamala plot from Captain Marvel # 14. While the future Ms. Marvel’s wish was to be just like Carol, Binary’s desire seems to be on doing what pleases those who she cares about. Spider-Woman does her best to assist the young “hero” – while Carol’s other friends look into her disappearance from last issue.
Speaking of Carol the issue ends with a look at where she ended up after the night out with the ladies. Well, sort of. Frigeri and Lopez switch styles during this portion which makes this world feel strange and surreal – which possibly is the point. At this moment while Captain Marvel has found her footing it seems to be a result of going into survival mode. For whatever reason she is without her powers. Jordie Bellaire colors give this second chapter the feel of Savage Carol instead of a Captain Marvel. But readers, and Carol, are no closer to determining where she has found herself. Or is that the purpose of this jaunt?
Binary is back – at least in a sense. Though as this comic shows “she” has a lot to learn, but is already loving being alive. Whether it’s saving cats, enjoying a dog or learning new words, there is a look of childlike wonder, uncertainty and happiness on “her” face. And even as she struggles to adjust the enthusiasm at doing the job is easily on Ms. Marvel’s level. And with heroes like Spider-Woman to Carol’s fellow Avengers, Binary has plenty of teachers and mentors – maybe even a friend. Unfortunately, until she gets (and the Marvel Universe) gets Carol back everyone – including Binary – may be playing a losing game.
Score: 8.1