Warning: Contains SPOILERS for Mystique #1!Mystic was the main figure in X-Men canonical practically since her introduction, playing major roles in franchise-spanning storylines throughout that time. However, she never really had the opportunity to stand out on her own. Sure, she's had a few starring roles in some storylines here and there, but Mystique has yet to achieve the A-list status she deserves. At least so far, and new nemesis Mystique cements that status perfectly.
In a preview provided by the Do Comic Book Club Mystic #1 by Declan Shalvey, Mystique is on the run from SHIELD while working on a top secret mission that has yet to be revealed. At the beginning of the teaser, Mystique is hiding in a cabin in the woods, writing a diary of sorts. The comic then cuts to two weeks earlier, showing a strike team hired by SHIELD and led by former Weapon X agent Maverick hunting down Sabretooth in an industrial facility.
Meanwhile, the head of SHIELD himself, Nick Fury, is doing some investigative work, connecting the dots of his current investigation and discovers that the one person at the center of it is none other than Mystique. The teaser ends with Mystique brandishing a gun, standing in the facility where SHIELD's strike team was operating, and greeting the unseen person she's been waiting for (potentially Sabretooth). Of course, this preview presents more questions than answers, although it does reveal one thing: Mystique has a new nemesis, and that person is Nick Fury.
Nick Fury is the perfect nemesis for the new era of Mystique
Marvel Comics leans towards the spy side of Mystique
Mystique has been many things in Marvel Comics. She has led government-backed mutant strike teams, revived the Brotherhood of Mutants, acted as a villainous solo agent, and most recently was even a member of the X-Men. But above all, Mystique has always shined as a spy, as her mutant powers make her exceptionally talented in the profession.
The story that showcased Mystique's spy skills has to be the best Foreman, Tailor, Mutant, Spy, which showed Mystique working to uncover the secret of a disease that spreads telepathically – and that's just one example. In fact, there's no shortage of instances where Mystique has proven herself to be a more than capable spy, which is why it's perfect that her new nemesis is arguably the ultimate spy, Nick Fury.
Why Nick Fury is trying to capture Mystique in his new X-Men series
While details as to why Fury is trying to capture Mystique have yet to be revealed, there are a few clues that fans can glean from this announcement – as well as the events surrounding it. This story takes place immediately after the fall of Krakoa, and Mystique has seemingly severed all ties with the X-Men. This means that she is once again a solo agent and is more committed than ever to fighting for mutants, regardless of the now lost “Kakao rights”. Therefore, Mystique is likely plotting the downfall of all humanity, and Fury has made it his mission to stop her.
Whatever Mystique is up to, her spy skills make her a serious enough threat for Nick Fury to deal with, which elevates her to A-list status because Nick Fury doesn't pay that kind of attention to just anyone. Not only that, but it's new X-Men the series sheds light on the matter Mysticher spy skills, which isn't difficult when she's at her best, and Nick Fury as her nemesis is absolutely perfect.
Mystic No. 1 by Marvel Comics will be available October 16, 2024.
Source: Comic Book Club
X-Men
The X-Men series, created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, focuses on mutants with extraordinary abilities. Led by the powerful telepath, Professor Charles Xavier, they fight against discrimination and the evil mutants that threaten humanity. The series explores themes of diversity and acceptance through a mix of action, drama and complex characters, spanning comics, animated series and blockbusters.
