New Avengers #31 - The last page! (Now with Spoilers!)

[the-screw-on-aaron]

Right, so this week's New Avengers issue is supposed to rock our socks off with the last page claiming that it's going to show the direction in which the Marvel universe is going. I thought it would be fun to speculate about it before it comes out, when it comes out to talk about if it was worth the hype or not.

What's the last page going to show?

How will it affect the rest of the Marvel universe?

Will there be a new event out of it?

Is the suspense killing you like it is me:eek:!?

So to start things off I think it has something to do with the big conspiracy theory that Luke Cage mentioned. Bendis has been building this since Disassembled and maybe we'll find out who's pulling all the strings.

What are your thoughts on the last page?

[fred]

I think that Hawkeye will pull off his skin mask and reveal that he's actually Danny Bonaduce. His shoes have lifts in them.

[the-screw-on-aaron]

Maybe the reveal will be that Iron Fist is actually Matt Murdock covering for Danny Raned!

As I was searching around Google for other topics about this issue and page I found CBR had something to say about it (http://www.comicbookresources.com/news/newsitem.cgi?id=10611)and what they say is good.

[fred]

I just found a spoiler
let me know if you want me to pm it to you

[kwok_talk]

I think it involves the Hood now controlling the crime scene that Kingpin once had. They’ve been hyping up the release of the BKV mini-series and it even has “New Avengers” associated to the listing now.

[fred]

if it is what I've seen - you will be disappointed

[paper]

Make with the PMing, Fred. Thanks.

I don't have high expectations. I'm kinda bored with NA lately. Which sucks because it was my first book coming back into comics. I still like it, but I'm anxious for a new arc.

[fred]

it's sent. I've already gotten a few requests. I forwarded the form pm

[kwok_talk]

it's sent. I've already gotten a few requests. I forwarded the form pm

I love spoilers. Hit me up.

[the-screw-on-aaron]

I’m…. Tempted, but I won't do it. Thanks for the offer Fred but this could be big (probably won't be) and I like surprises. Thanks for the offer though.

[fred]

no problem. let me know if you change your mind

kwok, I sent it

[paper]

If any of it is true, and we get to talking about it on Wednesday....I have an opportunity to punch Bendis in the neck on Saturday.

I'll give you guys the full report on the fan reaction.

[kwok_talk]

Thanks Fred. If that’s true, I really don’t see why that is so important to the Marvel U.

[acomicbookgirl]

If any of it is true, and we get to talking about it on Wednesday....I have an opportunity to punch Bendis in the neck on Saturday.

I'll give you guys the full report on the fan reaction.

I would love to see pics or a video of that.. ;)

[fred]

The source is wicked reputable. I've yet to see him be wrong. He had accurate stuff for CW 4, 5, 6, 7 and 52.

I'm a huge Bendis defender and I really think that he deserves a punch in the neck for this.

[fred]

Thanks Fred. If that’s true, I really don’t see why that is so important to the Marvel U.

ecause-bay ey-thay an-cay use-way it-way o-tay etcon-ray e-thay ast-lay wo-tay ears-yay

[paper]

I don't really get the cause and effect of the spoiler. But I don't like where it's going either.

[kwok_talk]

ecause-bay ey-thay an-cay use-way it-way o-tay etcon-ray e-thay ast-lay wo-tay ears-yay

Thankfully I keep a codebreaker with me at all times. This probably has more to do with me just getting back into comics recently, but I don’t understand the implications. I’m sure enough discussion will happen come Wed, so I’ll just sit and stew in my confusion until then.

[fred]

ey-thay an-cay use-way is-thay o-tay ay-say at-thay obody-nay as-way o-whay ey-thay ere-way uppossed-say o-tay e-bay

eam-up-tay o-tay ight-fay e-thay krulls-say and-way ave-say e-thay eal-ray uys-gay

[paper]

Aw, they're not that stupid.

Are they?

[fred]

yes they are

[trying to be careful and cryptic - hope you get it]

think about the era that storylines involving certain named entities take place in
think about the way that they're filling in gaps from that time now

[paper]

I-way ink-thay ose-thay ought-thay-alloons-bay in ighty-May vengers-Ay ould-way ule-ray at-thay out-way. ose-Thay uys-gay ave-hay een-bay eally-ray introspective-way, o-say if-way ey-they ere-way evil-way ey-thay ould-way ot-nay e-bay inking-thay egular-ray oughts-thay.

[paper]

Yeah, I get what you're saying. It does seem to line up.

[fred]

I-way ink-thay ose-thay ought-thay-alloons-bay in ighty-May vengers-Ay ould-way ule-ray at-thay out-way. ose-Thay uys-gay ave-hay een-bay eally-ray introspective-way, o-say if-way ey-they ere-way evil-way ey-thay ould-way ot-nay e-bay inking-thay egular-ray oughts-thay.


[get out your mirror]
yawa nialpxe ysae s'taht

[fred]

o es muy facil a hacen una via adonde estes globos es no importe

[luthor]

Fred,
I'll take an order of spoilers with a side of home fries, please.

[fred]

I sent spoilers but I'm fresh out of homefries

[luthor]

Thanks Fred.

Makes sense and they have set it up in another Bendis comic.

[k33k3r]

Fred hit me with it as well.

[fred]

coming your way

[k33k3r]

Thank you much

[fred]

no problem

[humphrey-lee]

The anticipation is killing me!!

... oh wait, no. That's total apathy I'm feeling. Sorry, I get my emotions confused sometimes.

Someone tap me on the shoulder when we can finally let the quality of the stories and organic change sell books and not random manufactured hype and enough tie-ins to choke a giraffe with.

[k33k3r]

All I knew before this was that Marvel told stores to order more of this book so they didn't get all pissy again when it sells out quick.

They didn't want to pull another Cap's Dead thing again. Even though I don't expect that to happen with this book at all.

[humphrey-lee]

All I knew before this was that Marvel told stores to order more of this book so they didn't get all pissy again when it sells out quick.

They didn't want to pull another Cap's Dead thing again. Even though I don't expect that to happen with this book at all.

Maybe they have an alternate dimension Cap show up just to die again? What a twist!!


Personally I wish they'd just have "Cannibal War!" or whatever and just make the next event a giant slugfest with the whole Marvel Zombies planet. Create another unnecessary event AND milk a cash cow for them even more all at the same time. Come on boys, I know you can do it.

[kahunablair]

Anyone else to lazy to sit and write in pig latin? Here ya go for the lazy people like me... http://www.wordplays.com/fcgi-bin/pig.pl




oSay eythay areyay ettypray uchmay ettingsay isthay upyay otay ebay ustjay ikelay ethay ultimateyay ersionvay? Ityay isyay otnay ethay azinay artypay / onyTay arkStay atthay isyay evilyay, ityay isyay ethay evilyay apeshiftingshay aliensyay?

[fred]

right on. .

[luthor]

isThay uffstay ivesgay emay ayay eadachehay. Owwwyay.

[jmf]

Hey anyone wanna PM the Spoiler I dont read NA so would like to know what it maybe.

[kahunablair]

Just sent JMF

[jmf]

Thanks Kahuna

I was just starting to get the NA TPB's and if this is the reveal it would explain a lot but I think it would also piss a lot a lot of people off.

[big-doze]

I just found a spoiler
let me know if you want me to pm it to you

I'll take one of those, if you please, Dr. Fred.

[fred]

just forwarded it

[big-doze]

Most humble thanks.

[luthor]

I'm looking forward to this for tomorrow so we can start with the spoiler talk...I've already got a bunch of ideas.

[tony-stark-hero]

I am prepared to deny everything.

Reed tried to teach me pig latin, but after an hour he goes, "This is even a stretch on my patience." Which is what we on the helicarrier call "an easy joke."

If I had my way, everyone would just speak regular English. Everyone in the whole world. Even in Piglatvia. Or whatever.

[chris-from-long-island]

Fred can you please PM me the spoilers

[kwok_talk]

Welcome Chris from LI. Perhaps the most telling name yet.

[chris-from-long-island]

Welcome Chris from LI. Perhaps the most telling name yet.

:D It kinda is. I used to email Ron and leave voicemails for the audio show with that name and the name kinda stuck with me when i started posting on ifanboy.com

[jgg0610]

:D It kinda is. I used to email Ron and leave voicemails for the audio show with that name and the name kinda stuck with me when i started posting on ifanboy.com
Welcome and there's absolutely nothing wrong with a descriptive name that sticks. I've had the moniker of JGG in one form or another for over 20 years.

[jo-relrollins]

Hey i wanna know what this spoiler is? Fred what is it?

[paper]

Hey i wanna know what this spoiler is? Fred what is it?

Forwarded, sir.

[humphrey-lee]

I wish the ending was that both Avengers teams start brawling again, but then Captain Marvel shows up and says "Uh, hey guys. Just wanted to stop by, y'know, remind everyone I was alive again, see if anyone wanted to go see the new Pirates flick or something. I really missed you guys, wish we could hang out some more. Whaddaya say?"

And then everyone stops what they're doing, looks at each other, and then kind of looks at the ground all embarrassed. "Yeah, sorry man, we totally forgot. Been kind of busy with stuff. Terribly rude of us. Love to hang out y'know, but uh, well, looks like the Hulk is coming back and well... hey, why don't you come see us in about five months when things look to be freed up? Hey, you don't think maybe you could go stir up some shit with your people again do you? We're gonna need something to do about this time next summer. That'd be great, Thanks!"

And then Luke Cage kicks Black Widow in the pajingo.

[jo-relrollins]

thanx paper.

[chris-from-long-island]

can somebody private message me the spoiler please!!!!

[acomicbookgirl]

can somebody private message me the spoiler please!!!!

Forwarded, Sir. :)

[chris-from-long-island]

Forwarded, Sir. :)

Thank you very much

[ronxo]

Jesus - I come online to see what's doing on the forum and I find Fred dealing spoilers like crack and half of you talking pig latin.

scary people, scary.

[tonystark]

Pig latin is scary enough on it's own...

[big-doze]

I am prepared to deny everything.

Reed tried to teach me pig latin, but after an hour he goes, "This is even a stretch on my patience." Which is what we on the helicarrier call "an easy joke."

Good to see you again, Mr. Director. Please start another Ask Tony thread, so that we might share in your wisdom.


If I had my way, everyone would just speak regular English. Everyone in the whole world. Even in Piglatvia. Or whatever.

Yeah, that's a problem I keep running into in Japan. People keep trying to talk to me in this crazy gibberish. I don't know what their deal is.

[fred]

Jesus - I come online to see what's doing on the forum and I find Fred dealing spoilers like crack and half of you talking pig latin.

scary people, scary.

I had that short burst of mirror writing as well

sorry I didn't forward the last few last night guys - I'm sick and I was early to bed

[jimski]

The good news is, you can buy it in an hour.

[kwok_talk]

The good news is, you can buy it in an hour.

Will I need a mirror to read it?

Last time I used a mirror, some rogues showed up with a bag of coke.

[the-screw-on-aaron]

I just came back from the store (spent €80 in comic!) went to my park read all my books including New Avengers #31. Damn! If I think this means what I think it means were looking at something really cool. I really should have seen this coming and Bendis hinted at it In New Avengers Illuminati #1 and it looks like it's going to set the stage for next year's big event!

I don't know if anybody else has read it yet so I won't say too much until later.

[fred]

I just got back from the store and I haven't read it yet but it looks like the spoiler was accurate

[fred]

now that I've read it, I'd like to offer Paper $10 for a picture of him punching Bendis in the neck

[jo-relrollins]

Its on my pull list,I work late so getting mine either tomorrow or friday. Can't wait, i've been following Illumanati a little bit. So can't wait to see what is going on the Marvel U. I hope the new event goes well. Cause they are going through so many "Mini" events right now, and this uber-event is being toted as something we have to see. So hopefully its intriging and not a let down.

[jimski]

Had time to go buy it; don't have time to read it! not just flipping to the back in the car took everything I had in me today. I may "work late" just to read it in relative peace before going home.

[the-screw-on-aaron]

now that I've read it, I'd like to offer Paper $10 for a picture of him punching Bendis in the neck

Unless there's some sarcasm here I'm missing (which has happened way too often) why does Bendis need to be punched in the neck?

I thought what he did was cool, made sense and I didn't see it coming. The upcoming event that will spin out of this (which I have an idea what it will be called) with him writing it will be awesome! I don't feel cheated or anything like that at all, so what's the problem?

[fred]

it's in my review - more to come

[the-screw-on-aaron]

I eagerly await it:)

[six-gun]

Fred, pm me those spoilers. I can't wait until I go to the shop later.

[fred]

I'll forward it now

[the-screw-on-aaron]

I'm curious to know, was the spoiler accurate or was it something different?

[hometeam790]

Got to read it. I won't say anything since we're not posting spoilers yet. Didn't live up to the hype of it. I say Captain America 25 is the most important issue of the year over this.

However, I am intrigued by what's been revealed and am curious as to where its going.

[kwok_talk]

At first, when I got the PM (and now having read the issue) I didn’t get why it was such a big deal. On my drive back from the LCS, all of these things flooded into my mind to wonder how this or that event / story worked. Maybe this will be the new “Who’s Ronin?” discussion for the next few months.

[six-gun]

My only question, who's going to make the Marvel U's cylon detector. Because they should so not get that Baltar guy to make it.

[cam-]

Alright, I'm diving in here.

With the Spoilers on!!!

So...uh...what?

Elektra the Skrull is fine that I can deal with, it open a lot of possibilities etc. etc.

But, and it's hard to tell cause the art is WEAK in this issue, are those baby eyes coloured green? Baby is a Skrull? Sooo Jessica is a Skrull?

Is that what happened? Or am I crazy.

[kwok_talk]

Elektra the Skrull was the part I was trying to wrap my head around. So was she a skrull all this time in Bendis’ DD? What about Enemy of the State? Did she never really come back to life? Is Jennifer Garner really a Skrull and now the mother of Ben Affleck’s child?

[horatio616]

*Warning! Speculation that may be spoiler*



So basically Iron Man is a Skrull, the Illuminati are Skrulls, the New Warriors were Skrulls. The Civil War was caused by Skrulls. Skrulls have infiltrated Shield. Cap found out the truth so his murder was set up so that he could investigate more effectively if he were believed to be dead. Cap's gone on a covert rescue mission to find out what happened to the real Iron Man, et al. Captain Mar-Vell is a Skrull.

Is this what is going on?

[cam-]

SO the Pro Reg side is Skrulls,

And the Anti Reg side will be revealed to be Kree's.

Whammo, Rick Jones gets to save the day again.

[fred]

*Warning! Speculation that may be spoiler*



So basically Iron Man is a Skrull, the Illuminati are Skrulls, the New Warriors were Skrulls. The Civil War was caused by Skrulls. Skrulls have infiltrated Shield. Cap found out the truth so his murder was set up so that he could investigate more effectively if he were believed to be dead. Cap's gone on a covert rescue mission to find out what happened to the real Iron Man, et al. Captain Mar-Vell is a Skrull.

Is this what is going on?

This is all possible now and that's why it annoys me. They can use this silent Skrull takeover concept to roll back Civil War, the SHRA, the Initiative, World War Hulk, etc etc etc

[cam-]

Maybe the Heroes for Hire are really being attacked by the Supreme Intelligence's head. Or, top of his head anyway.

What, were not talking about tentacles anymore?

[cam-]

*Warning! Speculation that may be spoiler*



So basically Iron Man is a Skrull, the Illuminati are Skrulls, the New Warriors were Skrulls. The Civil War was caused by Skrulls. Skrulls have infiltrated Shield. Cap found out the truth so his murder was set up so that he could investigate more effectively if he were believed to be dead. Cap's gone on a covert rescue mission to find out what happened to the real Iron Man, et al. Captain Mar-Vell is a Skrull.

Is this what is going on?

I don't know seems a little Skrull heavy to me. I mean there have to be some good guys...

Plus Skrulls can't emulate powers (Like Xaviers telepathy), so that rules out the illuminati.

[the-screw-on-aaron]

This feels so good to get off my chest!

I have one sentence to sum up the next event “Kree Skrull War2”.

So I guess the illuminati really did F*ck things up for everybody more than we thought. I'm curious to know if Elektra has really been a Skrull the whole time or not. This explains why Reed Richards and Tony Stark have been acting so irrationally, their Skrulls! or dicks, one and the same really.

[fred]

another point - think of the Illuminati mini

It seems to be focusing on big cosmic stories that came about around the time that the skrulls were focused on more. They seem to be filling in gaps form the Skrull era.

[fred]

This feels so good to get off my chest!

I have one sentence to sum up the next event “Kree Skrull War2”.

So I guess the illuminati really did F*ck things up for everybody more than we thought. I'm curious to know if Elektra has really been a Skrull the whole time or not. This explains why Reed Richards and Tony Stark have been acting so irrationally, their Skrulls! or dicks, one and the same really.

that doesn't make me happy though. I'm not into that at all.

[the-screw-on-aaron]

Maybe the Heroes for Hire are really being attacked by the Supreme Intelligence's head. Or, top of his head anyway.


That's funny but just to tell you The Supreme Intelligence died in Annihilation.

Anybody interested in the whole Skrull thing should read Annihilation in deals a lot with the Skrulls current position as they're on the endangered species list now that so many of them have been killed.

[cam-]

Why's that Fred?

I mean the original, while great, reads as dated now. And it was bound to happen eventually right? Bendis has the pulse of ALL the avengers books, if someone's going to do it better him than anyone else.

I still don't like Captain Marvell returning though.

[cam-]

That's funny but just to tell you The Supreme Intelligence died in Annihilation.

Anybody interested in the whole Skrull thing should read Annihilation in deals a lot with the Skrulls current position as they're on the endangered species list now that so many of them have been killed.

Really? DAmn a whole bunch of shit went down in that story...

I'm waiting on trades marvel...

[the-screw-on-aaron]

that doesn't make me happy though. I'm not into that at all.

I can see what you mean and I am a little annoyed that all these events and wars can be explained so easily and cheaply but I have confidence in Bendis. He won't let me down and will probably craft something awesome out of it (I hope).

[luthor]

Still haven't read it but here's my *SPOILER* ideas...

Skrull's did something to Tony during the whole Illuminati/Skrulls thing. Slowly over time they have managed to gain some kind of influence, but not complete control over Tony.

Tony goes to the Illuminati says "Hey, Hulk destroyed some shit again...let's send him away"*because Hulk's beaten the Skrull's champion, so they are afraid of him.*

Tony says, "Hey, sounds like a bill is going to pass where we're going to have to register with the government. We'd better do it. Those that don't are going to regret it..."*because if the heroes are at war with each other they can't concentrate on the Skrull's(who I love btw, the name is my favorite in comics). The Skrull's then start to replace people without much notice in order to infiltrate the heroes to keep an eye on them. Small people...like babies.*

This is just the first thing that popped in my head yesterday and I'm sure that over the next year things will change...

[luthor]

Plus Skrulls can't emulate powers (Like Xaviers telepathy), so that rules out the illuminati.

No, they can't...coincidence a bunch of mutants lost their powers?

[six-gun]

Here's an idea, all the Illuminati are skrulls. Bendis never said that they escaped that skrull ship in issue #1

[six-gun]

No, they can't...coincidence a bunch of mutants lost their powers?

I think they got powers from the experiments (we thought it was just torture) they did on the Illuminati in issue #1

[six-gun]

I hope Cap's alive and working with Nick Fury to mess some aliens up, like Jack Baeur, but sci-fi

[the-screw-on-aaron]

Here's an idea, all the Illuminati are skrulls. Bendis never said that they escaped that skrull ship in issue #1

But why would they be making all these decisions on behalf of Earth in later issues if they were just Skrulls? Good theory though.

[the-screw-on-aaron]

No, they can't...coincidence a bunch of mutants lost their powers?

Super Skrull

[kwok_talk]

But why would they be making all these decisions on behalf of Earth in later issues if they were just Skrulls? Good theory though.

Agreed and it would seem to pose WAY too many continuity problems going back that far. I like the theory that the Illuminati were switched more recently.

[the-screw-on-aaron]

Really? DAmn a whole bunch of shit went down in that story...

I'm waiting on trades marvel...

A lot of stuff happened in that book that nobody realized. It was the event that nobody was noticing and it was quite good. I'm curious to see how Annihilation Conquest is going to work with this latest development

[fred]

it annoys me because A) I don't give a **** about space comics and B) it feels like a copout. It feels like they're painted into a corner with all of this shra stuff and they don't know how to get out of it without a reboot. They know that people would flip about a complete reboot so instead they could be going for a smaller scale (short time period) cognizant reboot.

[conorkilpatrick]

Here's an idea, all the Illuminati are skrulls. Bendis never said that they escaped that skrull ship in issue #1

That would be the Spider-Man Clone Saga x 1,000,000,000. No way Marvel is doing that.

[cam-]

Super Skrull

He's the exception to the rule.

That's what makes him super.

[luthor]

They could weave this back to a long time ago...I think they could even get rid of the Spider-man/Mary Jane marriage with this.

[cam-]

They could weave this back to a long time ago...I think they could even get rid of the Spider-man/Mary Jane marriage with this.

WHat? How? Wouldn't spidey's sense alert him that something was wrong if she were replaced?

[luthor]

WHat? How? Wouldn't spidey's sense alert him that something was wrong if she were replaced?

You would think...but why doesn't it go crazy around the baby?

[benjy77]

WHat? How? Wouldn't spidey's sense alert him that something was wrong if she were replaced?

Being with a smoking hot woman, can throw off anyone's senses.

[kwok_talk]

WHat? How? Wouldn't spidey's sense alert him that something was wrong if she were replaced?

Maybe she’s washing Spidey’s costume in some Skrull potion that masks her identity. Maybe that’s why she was smiling so big in the statue. And being an alien, that’s why she chose to dress that way to mimic the other young human ladies of NY.

[kahunablair]

Quote:
Originally Posted by CAM!
Plus Skrulls can't emulate powers (Like Xaviers telepathy), so that rules out the illuminati.

No, they can't...coincidence a bunch of mutants lost their powers?

Or is it more likely that is the main reason the X-Men storylines were allowed to remain seperate from the majority of the Civil War storyline?

[fred]

My reviews and my thoughts on this issue are up at Virb (http://www.virb.com/idontknow/blog/120949)

[cam-]

You would think...but why doesn't it go crazy around the baby?

Maybe even Skrull babies are innocent. Nature vs. Nurture right?

[cam-]

Being with a smoking hot woman, can throw off anyone's senses.

Well, SOMETHING would be tingling then.


But seriously, if MJ were replaced, one can assume it wasn't to benefit Peter, and therefore his sense should go off.

I mean it wouldn't just go off for a skrull, the one from Runaways is "good" right? So they're necessarily bad...

[cam-]

Maybe she’s washing Spidey’s costume in some Skrull potion that masks her identity. Maybe that’s why she was smiling so big in the statue. And being an alien, that’s why she chose to dress that way to mimic the other young human ladies of NY.

NOw that's comedy.:D

[the-screw-on-aaron]

Crap! I just realized this means anybody can be a Skrull. That's pretty cheap actually now that I think about it, so many things can be explained by saying “oh they were Skrulls so that explains everything” I trust Bendis though and that's The only thing that's keeping me from revolting.

[luthor]

During the whole New Fantastic Four storyline, there was a Skrull involved somehow, but I don't remember how exactly. I know she lied, and Spider-man's spider sense didn't go off...

[conorkilpatrick]

Why don't we wait to see what actually goes down before we get mad about things that might happen?

[cam-]

My reviews and my thoughts on this issue are up at Virb (http://www.virb.com/idontknow/blog/120949)

ANd, at the risk of being called a post whore.

Nice reviews Fred. I'm with you on the art, though I had more of a problem with the colouring. Weird cause I loved last issues art. But here, yeesh, I couldn't even tell if that last panel was supposed to be important. I mean, I know it is, cause of the hype, but the colouring didn't make it clear to me.

And specifically Jessica's eyes on the second page, terrible.

[cam-]

Why don't we wait to see what actually goes down before we get mad about things that might happen?

I don't know if anyone's really mad (maybe Fred), just worried, we'd hate to find out years of stories mean nothing.

You said it yourself with the clone saga comment right?

I agree with Aaron though, I trust Bendis, and I love the potential here.

I'm more upset by the art than anything else.

[luthor]

Why don't we wait to see what actually goes down before we get mad about things that might happen?

I'm stoked. I love Skrulls.

This is bringing me back to that Countdown teaser poster from a few months back. I love just thinking of the potential.

[jo-relrollins]

**Spoilerish**






Ok i just wanna state something. I know most of us have read some of the Illumanati series. But did anyone notice that the Skrulls had taken DNA from the members of this org. If u check, i think #2 (its the one where they are captured). The Skrull leader states they can let Tony and them leave because the Skrulls have got what they want. So pretty much they've(the Skrulls) have made Cylons, Skrulls with DNA modifications to make them formidable to the heroes. I.E. An Telepathic Skrull.

Just saying.

[fred]

I'm not mad, I'm worried. This could easily develop into a really disastrously shitty storyline.

[horatio616]

During the whole New Fantastic Four storyline, there was a Skrull involved somehow, but I don't remember how exactly. I know she lied, and Spider-man's spider sense didn't go off...

During DeFalco's run on FF, Human Torch married Alicia Masters but it was revealed that she was a Skrull named Llyja (sp?).

Maybe it's Spider-Man that's the clone, but that wouldn't explain why he suddenly switched sides in the middle of CW unless he's a mole. Doctor Strange used some truth spell on everybody though so that doesn't make a lot of sense.

The Skrulls could have replaced the Illuminati at any point in the past so if it were revealed that they were Skrulls it wouldn't be a gigantic retcon like the Clone Saga.

I don't even give a crap about all this CW stuff and here I am talking about it. Bravo, Marvel!

[horatio616]

I'm not mad, I'm worried. This could easily develop into a really disastrously shitty storyline.

But, more importantly, into a series of best-selling trades!

[chris-from-long-island]

OMG this is going to end up being the marvel universe's Invasion of the Body Snatchers!!!!!

[kahunablair]

You know I just had an interesting thought. How cool would it be if they set it all up to look like the Skrull's are the reason for the Civil War and everything else, but at the last moment they pull the rug out from underneath us. They turn around and have Tony actually being himself, and not an impostor. Rather then allowing us to see it as a cop out they own up to what actually happened. That could be a huge little twist.

[paper]

We've seen his introspection. We've read his thoughts. He's not a Skrull.

[kahunablair]

One of my favorite parts of Annihilation was the fact that things actually happened at the end of the book. Things were changed, the Skrulls were almost completely wiped out. I want to see how they are going to show how their plans on Earth weren't interrupted at all when their entire part of the galaxy was being destroyed.
Maybe the Skrull's didn't arrive until after/mid Civil War as a way to escape the Annihilation wave. So that way nothing is going to be retconned.

Just throwing crap out there....

[paper]

Really makes me want to read Annihilation.

[the-screw-on-aaron]

Annihilation is really good. it's last year's underappreciated event living in the shadow of civil war.

[acomicbookgirl]

now that I've read it, I'd like to offer Paper $10 for a picture of him punching Bendis in the neck

I'll add $5 to that.. Wait, make it $10 since it looks like he's not going to do a Spider Woman series anymore.. read it in the store.. Fred, you are good..

[the-screw-on-aaron]

I'll add $5 to that.. Wait, make it $10 since it looks like he's not going to do a Spider Woman series anymore.. read it in the store.. Fred, you are good..

Don't be hatein! I can't remember a time when Bendis has ever let me down. He will turn this into something magical and wonderful (I hope).

[paper]

He's not doing the Spider-Woman book? Damn. I was looking forward to that.

[acomicbookgirl]

He's not doing the Spider-Woman book? Damn. I was looking forward to that.

Me too but I haven't heard anything about it and he's doing some HALO thing.. Lord knows if he is or isn't.. Maybe you can ask him and if he says no, then b*tchslap him for me.

[paper]

Fred, make with the review post. We gotta gripe about the rest of the crappy books that came out this week. Ron posted the POW like 12 hours early.

[acomicbookgirl]

Don't be hatein! I can't remember a time when Bendis has ever let me down. He will turn this into something magical and wonderful (I hope).

Is wanting him to do the Spider Woman series that i've been waiting for for lord knows how long too much to ask?

[fred]

spider-woman has been pushed back to '08 or '09 for Halo

he "couldn't pass up the opportunity"

[acomicbookgirl]

Fred, make with the review post. We gotta gripe about the rest of the crappy books that came out this week. Ron posted the POW like 12 hours early.

POW is already up? Damn! Haven't even finished my books yet..

[paper]

Me too but I haven't heard anything about it and he's doing some HALO thing.. Lord knows if he is or isn't.. Maybe you can ask him and if he says no, then b*tchslap him for me.

Last I heard he was still doing it, but that was the last WordBalloon he did.

He's doing Halo and the Daredevil mini.

[acomicbookgirl]

spider-woman has been pushed back to '08 or '09 for Halo

he "couldn't pass up the opportunity"

Are you kidding me? :mad: I'm sorry but I can't grasp that.. I've seen my ex play that game once with his friend and I got a headache from watching it.. It would've been perfect if he did it this year with her being on the Marvel stamp and all.. ;)

[paper]

POW is already up? Damn! Haven't even finished my books yet..

Yeah, he posted at 3:00 in the afternoon according to the time stamp. I noticed it around 5. Craaaaaaaaazy.

[acomicbookgirl]

If he posted at 3:00 that means it was noon here.

Damn! What is this week coming to? NA spoliers, Pig Lating, Mirror writing and now early POW's.. Hmm..

[fred]

my reviews were up on my virb at 3:30 today. early all around

[jimski]

I can't believe I didn't think of that.

I am wildly wigged out by the "theft of self" stories. Zombies, hypnotism, mind control, and possession freak me the f*** out. Shape-shifter, body snatcher stories are a close second. If I'm not on the edge of my seat for much of this, someone's writing will have to be actively pushing me back.

Because it's not that everybody's actually a Skrull; it's that everyone could be. You just don't know. Maybe Tony Stark isn't; maybe Nick Fury is. Maybe Maria Hill isn't; maybe Reed is. Just the possibility spreads dissension and and mistrust and paranoia and hostility in a way Civil War ain't got nothin' on. Why, any DS9 fans knows that just a couple of changelings on Earth are enough to tear apart the Federation from within!

I just outed myself, didn't I?

[paper]

What if only Matt Murdock's ex's are Skrulls?

[jimski]

What if only Matt Murdock's ex's are Skrulls?

You just don't know.

I love the idea that they've stolen Jessica Jones' baby and it's spying on the Avengers. I'm less excited about the possibility of Jessica being replaced herself.

When did it happen? Yesterday? A year ago? Have the Skrulls been doing the Hand resurrection/brainwashing ceremony? Could Ultron do... whatever that is to Tony-Skrull? Maybe. Keep watching the skies.

[fred]

Cartoon babies is Skrulls!!!!!!!!!

[paper]

But Tony thinks Tony thoughts not Skrull thoughts!!! Thought balloons!

[fred]

maybe tony is a brainwashed skrull

[paper]

What would that accomplish? Why? Why would they do that?

[luthor]

Here's one for ya...

Maybe Tony got the idea for them Hulk-busting Nanites from similar ones crawling through his skin.

[mikegraham6]

i just read the issue and i honestly don't think this would have been such a big reveal if Joe Q hadn't pimped it to be a "Universe Altering Event!". I mean in all reality the Skrulls could have just taken over the Hand for all we know (they were talking to each other right? and the hand doesn't usually do that...)
I really hope that they don't get rid of the Superhero registration and make tony a skrull, i like the new marvel direction and i want them to keep it for the time being.
I also mentionned this on the main site, but i smell another company wide crossover. Prepare for World War Skrull: Invasion of the (Super) Body Snatchers....


Side note: Fred, how the hell do you get a this info a head of time???? do you have a source inside Marvel/DC/ABC TV????? damn man!

[fred]

there's a guy that I'm aware of that always has this info. Sometimes it's as early as two weeks before hand. I think that he has a source.

[mikegraham6]

there's a guy that I'm aware of that always has this info. Sometimes it's as early as two weeks before hand. I think that he has a source.

you got the connections eh? Is this the same guy who gave you the Lost info? because that was a MAJOR spoiler, and you had that weeks in advance. I can understand getting some comic info ahead of time, but i'd assume they would lock up that Lost information TIGHT!

[fred]

some of my lost stuff turns out to be right
sadly a lot of the earliest stuff this season didn't
alas, it's different guys
the comics guy has never been wrong

[paper]

I actually know a guy who just became an editor over at Marvel. I should start bugging him.

[fred]

nice. is he an editor or an assistant? do we know him? are you now or have you ever been a member of the communist party?

[paper]

nice. is he an editor or an assistant? do we know him? are you now or have you ever been a member of the communist party?

He's an assistant editor, and I believe he works under Steve Wacker, if his Facebook job field is to be believed.

[fred]

very cool.

[six-gun]

you got the connections eh? Is this the same guy who gave you the Lost info? because that was a MAJOR spoiler, and you had that weeks in advance. I can understand getting some comic info ahead of time, but i'd assume they would lock up that Lost information TIGHT!

I found the Lost info on a Games For Windows editor's blog, he was given a screener's copy because he talked about the show so much on the GFW podcast.

[fred]

I found the Lost info on a Games For Windows editor's blog, he was given a screener's copy because he talked about the show so much on the GFW podcast.

he's talking about the stuff that I had weeks before that

[paper]

You mean that wrong stuff you had before that. It's actually really good that that stuff didn't come true. Or at least in the way that we thought it would.

[acomicbookgirl]

he's talking about the stuff that I had weeks before that

Oh Fred, you and your spoilers.. Just keep mum with Countdown ok? ;)

[big-doze]

Hmm... havn't read the book yet, but the reveal intrigues me. There are indeed a lot of directions they can take this.

I don't see Bendis going for the "IT WAS THE ALIENS' FAULT" retcon. Of all that can be said of the man, he is not that obvious.

But here, with World War Hulk, a full fledged Skrull invasion (maybe), the fallout from the Illuminati's various misadventures through history (I presume that this is being built up to bite them in the ass), perhaps this is all meant as a story arc of it's own. Tony and SHIELD become so overwhelmed with every damn thing that's going on that they finally realize that they simply can't run the entire superhero community from one organization, especially one that could be (I dunno) infiltrated by friggin' Skrull.

From my point of view, the Initiative is a bad call because in the Marvel Universe giant guys in purple helmets try to eat our planet every 4 weeks or so. There is no allegory in real life for that, and as such normal ideas regarding accountability and registration cannot be applied. How many times did the friggin' Power Pack save the planet that nobody knew about? What if they'd just been sitting in the helicarrier waiting for an assignment instead of going out and looking for trouble?

The Skrulls, Hulk, everything could be leading up to Tony realizing that there's a reason why the world wasn't destroyed up until now, and that messing with that system (such as it was) is creating more chaos.


Was that a Civil War rant? What is this, 2006?

[mikegraham6]

You mean that wrong stuff you had before that. It's actually really good that that stuff didn't come true. Or at least in the way that we thought it would.

oh you mean those spoilers were wrong? im interested to know what you guys thought was going to happen? do you remember?

[fred]

You mean that wrong stuff you had before that. It's actually really good that that stuff didn't come true. Or at least in the way that we thought it would.

there were several rounds. some of it was very, very wrong and I'm glad that it was. some of it was accurate or accurate in spirit

[paper]

I don't want to ruin this for anyone who hasn't been watching the show, but...SPOILER

Well the main thing was that the season would end on the thing that Ben did in the past and what happened to his parents. And, as you know, a lot of shit went down after that, even in the same episode.

[mikegraham6]

I don't want to ruin this for anyone who hasn't been watching the show, but...SPOILER

Well the main thing was that the season would end on the thing that Ben did in the past and what happened to his parents. And, as you know, a lot of shit went down after that.

ah! that would have also been a great way to end the season though. it doesn't sound like the spoiler was wrong... just misplaced

[fred]

there was more too. Ben was alleged to be the child of the Degruuts(who started Dharma) and also responsible for their deaths. Also, not wholly inaccurate but not accurate either

[paper]

We better not go too deep. I know we've got some people on here who aren't caught up with the show.

back on topic...

Are we sure it was a Skrull?

[kwok_talk]

We better not go too deep. I know we've got some people on here who aren't caught up with the show.

back on topic...

Are we sure it was a Skrull?

Maybe Elektra just looks really bad when you catch her in a bad light. Or Jennifer Garner was asking too much for royalties, so they just got a standin.

[paper]

Wait....there's a clue on the back cover.

Milk.

Baby Cage is drinking milk and goes all goggle eyed.

Elektra is seen drinking milk earlier in the issue.

What if the Skrulls are invading bodies through milk particles?

[senoj1]

Ya if this wasn't Bendis i'd be freaking out right now. I have trust in him.

[kwok_talk]

Bendis interview:

http://comics.ign.com/articles/796/796467p1.html

[kahunablair]

Wait....there's a clue on the back cover.

Milk.

Baby Cage is drinking milk and goes all goggle eyed.

Elektra is seen drinking milk earlier in the issue.

What if the Skrulls are invading bodies through milk particles?

I'd think I'd find this funny if something like it wasn't already done. Anyone remember the first time the Skrulls were in the Fantastic Four? Reed turned used hypnosis and turned them into cows.
Then, if I remember correctly, something happened where towns people became Skrull-like from drinking the milk.
Then the cows were made into hamburger meat. The people that ate the meat, became the EXTREME, RADICAL, IN YOUR FACE, Skrull Kill Krew.

[kahunablair]

That said, I can promise you that the Civil War, and other giant events such as World War Hulk, happened - we did that to ourselves. There's not going to be a reveal later on that says, "Ohhhh!! The Skrulls were behind the Civil War!" That's just crappy writing. That's just bull****. That I can promise you. But something like Civil War, if it's an easy nudge, and the Skrulls can sit back and let us beat each other up and kill Captain America, that certainly would help them in their quest.

So there ya go.

[paper]

The key Bendis quotes from Kwok's link: (no real spoilers)

That said, I can promise you that the Civil War, and other giant events such as World War Hulk, happened - we did that to ourselves. There's not going to be a reveal later on that says, "Ohhhh!! The Skrulls were behind the Civil War!" That's just crappy writing. That's just bull****. That I can promise you. But something like Civil War, if it's an easy nudge, and the Skrulls can sit back and let us beat each other up and kill Captain America, that certainly would help them in their quest.

The events of House of M, Civil War, Secret War and World War Hulk - whenever we've done a big story - those characters have done that. That's a promise. It would be tantamount to, if on the last page of Civil War #7, the woman whose kid died, she pulled off her head and she was the Red Skull. You'd be like "Ahhhh, go **** yourself!!"

We've gone so far with these things and we'd never pull bull**** like that.

[fred]

I just read the article and I feel a bit better about it.

[davegraham]

So are we being made to believe that Jessica and her baby (does the tyke have a name?) are Skrull infiltrators. The baby bugging up suggests that and Jessica refusing the breast feed could be interpretted as sign of something going on.

After reading that interview I am excited to read me some Avengers comics, but not at a monthly pace. This is not a declaration that I am dropping Avengers comics, but I have a strong feeling this story is going to read much better in trade form. This New Avengers arc has been great. Every plot reveal makes me immediately want to have the next piece of the puzzle. Every issue is a piece to a larger plot, but I am starting to feel the issues themselves don't amount to enough substance. Isn't there a way Bendis could give me some sense of resolution to the issue I am reading AND work it into a large story. Every month I am left saying, "Wow. That was great and all, but get to the point already." Does anyone else feel this way?

It is a strange mix of emotions that I am feeling; frustration, unsatisfaction, and excitement.

[fred]

the baby does not yet have a name

[k33k3r]

Yeah I notcied that too. Hi nameless baby how are you?

[fred]

bendis actually jokes about it on the Bendis Tapes. I think it's going to get a name in an upcoming issue.

[six-gun]

Bendis explains himself (http://comics.ign.com/articles/796/796467p1.html)

[k33k3r]

No leave it nameless and just keep having everyone refer to it as baby or the baby. It's funny.

[fred]

Bendis explains himself (http://comics.ign.com/articles/796/796467p1.html)

damn skimmer
look here (http://www.revision3.com/forum/showpost.php?p=144783&postcount=173)

:rolleyes:

[six-gun]

Please don't hit me fred! I've been trying to reach my 1,000th post before leaving for WC (which I did with a montage photo over in my weekly column thread) and have indeed been skimming.

I am sorry.

[fred]

I'm just picking on you
good luck at War College
congrats on elite

[six-gun]

I'm just picking on you
good luck at War College
congrats on elite

thanks, I'm still "senior" though. ;(

[fred]

for the moment. it usually takes 15 or 20

they say that they're making a new status for me at 10K
I'm hoping that it's Fred

[six-gun]

for the moment. it usually takes 15 or 20

they say that they're making a new status for me at 10K
I'm hoping that it's Fred

I'm going to be pissed if you break 10k before the 23rd, I want to be here for that monumental occasion!

[fred]

it'll happen before then
it's been busy around here lately

[jimski]

I just read the article and I feel a bit better about it.

So, does this affect the book's letter grade and/or Shit Book status?

[davegraham]

I am reading a lot of posts (on other boards) hypothesizing that Tony has known about a Skull plot occurring in the shadows. The idea is that sending Hulk into space, Civil War, and taking control of SHIELD have been moves to counter the plot. It makes a lot of sense to me and it even redeems a lot of the seemingly terrible things he has done through the Illuminati group and Civil War.

Pre-Stamford Tony was against forcing registration (Road to Civil War Amazing Spider-man). While he seems to favor the organizing of the world's superheroes (Illuminati) he wasn't supporting the idea of the government holding that information (Skrulls infiltrating the government would have access to the world's superhuman community secrets). Then Stamford happened, the government was going to register heroes and use SHIELD to enforce it, Tony stepped up and sided with the government, to position him to be the one controlling superhero information, thus keeping it out of the hands of those shadowy characters (other possible Skrull infiltrators) that have been running schemes since the beginning of New Avengers.

The Hulk is too powerful a wild card to leave in the game. If it is possible a Skrull invasion is occurring and if Tony is anticipating a super hero civil war, the Hulk could too easily unbalance the scales. Whoever has the Hulk on their side would most likely win (either Civil War or the Skrull Invasion). So Tony removed the Hulk from the game board and sent him into outer space to prevent the other side from getting him.

Tony didn't plan for Stamford to happen, but he was ready just in case it did. He didn't plan for Cap's death, which is why it haunts him (earlier in the New New Avengers arc). The "fascist" Tony we've been seeing for the past year is partly an extension of his nature, but more so it is his nature working the year's past events to counter a Skrull invasion that could destroy his entire world. Tony just might come out of this a good guy, but not totally clean, because his actions have lead to Goliath's and Cap's deaths.

Anyway, that is stuff I have been reading elsewhere with my own thoughts thrown in.

[six-gun]

it'll happen before then
it's been busy around here lately

Oh well, you need to have some photo shopped masterpiece as you 10,000th

[fred]

So, does this affect the book's letter grade and/or Shit Book status?

unfortunately no. there were other issues with it and there is a curve. Someone has to be the Stupid Goose. Do you know my high school guidance counselor? No? Then you probably don't get that.

[six-gun]

at least it seems that this isn't going to be used as a ret-con as much as an excuse for an event.

[davegraham]

Oh and two other pieces to a Skrull Invasion redeeming Tony is...

He creates a massive prison off of the earth that is used to house super-types and then he goes and puts a former Kree officer in charge of it.

[horatio616]

The thing is Iron Man just repelled a "Skrull" invasion in Ultimates.

[davegraham]

The thing is Iron Man just repelled a "Skrull" invasion in Ultimates.

That was a couple years ago and wasn't exactly Tony as much as it was all of the Ultimates.

I smell another round of Who is Ronin? coming out of this. It is possible (though a little too obvious) that a Skrull looking to infilrate the New Avengers (assuming there isn't an infiltrator in the group already) would pose as the MIA Hawkeye to worm his way into the other rogue group of Earth's Mightiest Heroes.

[jimski]

All I ask for is a scene where Jessica's baby leaps out of the crib, spits out the pacifier and yells, "Foolish humans! I will crush you beneath my heel!" in a deep baritone before riding off on a Big Wheel. I don't think that's too much to ask.

[fred]

if it works for The Family Guy ......

[davegraham]

All I ask for is a scene where Jessica's baby leaps out of the crib, spits out the pacifier and yells, "Foolish humans! I will crush you beneath my heel!" in a deep baritone before riding off on a Big Wheel. I don't think that's too much to ask.

When I read "Big Wheel" I imagined a large, singular, wheel and had a very funny visual in my head. Then two seconds later I got it.

[fred]

http://blogging.la/archives/images/2006/01/old_fashioned_bicycle.jpg

[senoj1]

Whew No Civil War rollback.

[davegraham]

Actually, it was more like this...

http://img.consumating.com/photos/19923/large/147650.jpg

[fred]

that's an awesome picture

[omegalife2002]

That was a couple years ago and wasn't exactly Tony as much as it was all of the Ultimates.

I smell another round of Who is Ronin? coming out of this. It is possible (though a little too obvious) that a Skrull looking to infilrate the New Avengers (assuming there isn't an infiltrator in the group already) would pose as the MIA Hawkeye to worm his way into the other rogue group of Earth's Mightiest Heroes.

If you read the Fallen Son: Captain America issue it shows Tony putting Clint through some pretty extreme tests (including taking a peek in clints backdoor) to make sure its really him.

[davegraham]

Come on people, where is the Skrull Conjecture? We should be going through Wikipedia's list of Marvel characters and outing every possible Skrull in the Marvel Universe McCarthy-style.

I am starting the list with Ronin/Hawkeye because the team he is on hasn't known him very closely in the past, but would be inclined to trust him since he was one of Cap's friends. All he needed to do was have a shield against Dr. Strange's spell (assumming Strange isn't a Skrull) and his cover is solid.

I am clearing the Illuminati group from suspicion (at the point of their post Kree/Skrull War jaunt to the Skrull home world) because they have been involved in too many events that would have lead to their cover being blown.

[davegraham]

If you read the Fallen Son: Captain America issue it shows Tony putting Clint through some pretty extreme tests (including taking a peek in clints backdoor) to make sure its really him.

Good point, but no test is fool proof.

[luthor]

If you read the Fallen Son: Captain America issue it shows Tony putting Clint through some pretty extreme tests (including taking a peek in clints backdoor) to make sure its really him.

I'm sure that would cover him in the New Avengers. If Tony will speak for him, he's gotta be a good guy...

[fred]

Newsarama interviews Bendis

nice exchange here:
NRAMA: So what are some general clues?

BB: Just look at what’s been going on around the characters – anyone that’s had suspicious deaths and resurrections; anyone who had a change of philosophy…any of those kinds of things are suspect. I’m not saying or guaranteeing that everyone who went through something like that is definitely a Skrull, though…


<cough>Hawkeye</cough>

full article here (http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=116568)

[kwok_talk]

<cough>Hawkeye</cough>



What about this then? When the real Hawkeye traveled to find the Scarlet Witch, he found a skrull version of her. Looking in her closet, he saw some Skrull tech or something which caused him to be captured and then cloned.

[fred]

Is Namor is a Skrull? look at this:

NRAMA: Will it mostly play out in the Avengers titles?

BB: New Avengers, Mighty Avengers, and a big whopper in the ending of the Illuminati mini. In fact, the Illuminati miniseries opened with a big hint that this was coming…

NRAMA: Right – after the Kree-Skrull War, and the Illuminati were captured…

BB: And may have inadvertently given them the genetic keys to do what they are doing, which is different from what they did in the past.

NRAMA: And they were captured…

BB: Right – we don’t know how long they had them, and we don’t know if they got them out.

NRAMA: Wait – they all got out.

BB: Did they?

NRAMA: End of the issue, yeah – all the members of the Illuminati were there.

BB: Were they?

NRAMA: Wait – so since shortly after the ending of the Kree-Skrull War…you’re saying…

BB: Yup – that’s what I’m saying.

NRAMA: Bastard. So possibly, for what, thirty+ years, one or some of those characters could have been Skrulls?

BB: [laughs] I’m not saying yes or no to anyone, but the important thing is that it’s crazy, but it’s planned crazy. It’s all been planned out.

http://www.newsarama.com/marvelnew/newavengers/31/NA_Baby.jpgNRAMA: Let’s get some baby talk in. The spell that Dr. Strange performed in issue #30 pretty much cleared everyone of malicious intent.

BB: Unless Dr. Strange is a Skrull.

NRAMA: Oh, screw you.

BB: [laughs]

[davegraham]

Namor is the most likely of all the Illuminati, in my opinion, to be a Skrull, but I love that a$$hole too much to believe that to be true.

[fred]

he does seem to stay outside and cause problems though....

though it may be that he's too obvious

[davegraham]

That is the character Namor is. That doesn't make him a Skrull (though I am not ruling him out, yet). Could you imagine a calm and collected Namor debatining rationally? What fun would that be?

[jaflanagan]

I know people get mad about so-called retconning, but all that means to me is fun comics. Make shit crazy. Make up crazy shit and drive the fans nutty. Writers who hold the past sacred write the same thing over and over again. Cheers to Bendis for playing around.

[fred]

I was worried initially. After reading the IGN article I was hopeful. After reading the Newsarama article, I'm close to excited.

This proves of course that I'm an easy mark.



or that I just needed Bendis to tell me that everything will be ok.




I withdraw all offers of money to punch him in the neck.

[cam-]

How about Black Bolt? I would've said him if not for WWH, where presumably he would have reverted to "skrull form" after being bashed.

It's not like anyone would've noticed him acting out of character.

Still I have a problem believing none of the illuminati would notice a replacement, as Bendis suggests. The whole point of that team is that they're the smartest people in the MU.

[davegraham]

I know people get mad about so-called retconning, but all that means to me is fun comics. Make shit crazy. Make up crazy shit and drive the fans nutty. Writers who hold the past sacred write the same thing over and over again. Cheers to Bendis for playing around.

Everything has its place. I am very leery about stories that retcon past plots. On the one hand I am enjoying Illuminati and want to read more of that series. On the other hand I bought a crap load of Marvel Comics last year that told the story of Iron Man messing with the norm of the Marvel Universe. If a retcon transformered those comics to stories about a Skrull infiltrator messing with the norm of the Marvel Universe, I'd be pissed off.

These writers walk a fine line when trying to please us fans. They can't let things get stale and loose our interests, but at the same time if they go about messing things up willy nilly for the sake of being crazy, if it doesn't have some kind of logic established, I don't recognize that as good story telling.

[fred]

How about Black Bolt? I would've said him if not for WWH, where presumably he would have reverted to "skrull form" after being bashed.


he was beaten rather than killed right?
I think you could just as easily say that being a skrull weakened him to the point that the Hulk could take him out so easily.

[davegraham]

I too find it hard to believe that any of the Illuminati members have been a Skrull infiltrator for the past 30 years worth of stories. That is too much continuity for anyone else in that group to not catch on. However the group did split up just before Civil War and who knows what happened after that.

[luthor]

he was beaten rather than killed right?
I think you could just as easily say that being a skrull weakened him to the point that the Hulk could take him out so easily.

Admit it Fred, you're a Skrull. Planting these nasty conspiracy theories of yours in order to put us all in conflict.

Skrull!

[cam-]

he was beaten rather than killed right?
I think you could just as easily say that being a skrull weakened him to the point that the Hulk could take him out so easily.

True. So, then, we assume only death transforms skrulls back?

THat's a lotta death to solve the problem.

I wonder if Vince Mcmahon is a skrull.

[fred]

isn't it very skrully of you to ask me if I'm a skrull?

isn't it Skrull??????????????????????????

[fred]

THat's a lotta death to solve the problem.


I think that this is the most interesting part. You can't really ever be sure until someone is killed unless I've misunderstood.

[cam-]

Oh great. Here we go with the Skrull Finger pointing.

KREE POWER!!!

[fred]

that's just what a skrull would say

[cam-]

I think that this is the most interesting part. You can't really ever be sure until someone is killed unless I've misunderstood.

I'm looking forward to the scene where Luke has to kill his baby.

and Jessica.

[fred]

I'm looking forward to the scene where Luke has to kill his baby.

and Jessica.

and then maybe he'll eat them


and become a skrull

[jaflanagan]

Everything has its place. I am very leery about stories that retcon past plots. On the one hand I am enjoying Illuminati and want to read more of that series. On the other hand I bought a crap load of Marvel Comics last year that told the story of Iron Man messing with the norm of the Marvel Universe. If a retcon transformered those comics to stories about a Skrull infiltrator messing with the norm of the Marvel Universe, I'd be pissed off.

These writers walk a fine line when trying to please us fans. They can't let things get stale and loose our interests, but at the same time if they go about messing things up willy nilly for the sake of being crazy, if it doesn't have some kind of logic established, I don't recognize that as good story telling.

I see what you're saying, but really you're just saying you wouldn't like that story. It doesn't change the enjoyment you already had reading it. It's not real history, and I just don't understand why it has to be untouchable. That's the point of these funny books. And as many have pointed out, nothing is going to happen to the books you've alreayd read. They're not going anywhere. Those stories aren't going to change.

I mean, wouldn't it make sense that it wasn't Tony Stark? It might be a weaker story in your opinion, but it's no less valid. I guess I just don't hold this stuff so close to my vest, so I say throw some shit at the wall.

I don't have a vest.

[luthor]

I'm looking forward to the scene where Luke has to kill his baby.

and Jessica.

Filthy Kre..err...Duude, that's just ow.

[fred]

I don't have a vest.

only Skrulls wear vests

well, urkel did too. I always thought that he was a Skrull though.

[kwok_talk]

If Luke has to eat his baby, then it will be revealed that he’s a Marvel Zombie.

[fred]

http://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u116/fredhosley/NA_Babyskrull.gif

[fred]

If Luke has to eat his baby, then it will be revealed that he’s a Marvel Zombie.

and that he's lactose intolerant which always makes it difficult to eat babies because, as everyone knows, babies are made of milk.

[kwok_talk]

and that he's lactose intolerant which always makes it difficult to eat babies because, as everyone knows, babies are made of milk.

**Breaking News!**

Marvel and DC announce new crossover: Countdown Deadbabymonster vs. Marvel Zombies

[jimski]

When I read "Big Wheel" I imagined a large, singular, wheel and had a very funny visual in my head. Then two seconds later I got it.

What really cracks me up is that there was a 70s Spidey villain named Big Wheel that was exactly this. (I apologize if someone said this already; I'm only one man, you posting fiends.)

[fred]

**Breaking News!**

Marvel and DC announce new crossover: Countdown Deadbabymonster vs. Marvel Zombies

I might read that. I wouldn't pay for it of course, but I'd download it. It only seems appropriate.

[fred]

What really cracks me up is that there was a 70s Spidey villain named Big Wheel that was exactly this. (I apologize if someone said this already; I'm only one man, you posting fiends.)

I assume of course that you're referring to this (http://www.samruby.com/Villains/BigWheel/big_wheel.htm) patently ridiculous creature:

http://www.samruby.com/Villains/BigWheel/Big_Wheel.gif

[cam-]

What really cracks me up is that there was a 70s Spidey villain named Big Wheel that was exactly this. (I apologize if someone said this already; I'm only one man, you posting fiends.)

Oh Big wheel. That brings me back.

[jimski]

Oh my God, Black Bolt would be the best Skrull assignment ever. Your power is too awesome to use, and you never talk to anyone so you can never get caught forgetting your brother's birthday or "remembering" the pet Scruffy you never had. All you have to do is make cryptic hand gestures and occasionally open your mouth threateningly.

Of course, there's always the chance that you drop something on your foot and go, "Ow! Duckies!" and blow the whole thing just like that.

Dude, what if, like, Scarlet Witch is a total Skrull and the House of M never happened? Did I blow your mind?

[luthor]

Why is Clark Kent in a Spider-man comic?

http://www.samruby.com/Villains/BigWheel/JacksonWheel.gif

My god...the conspiracy runs deeper...

[benjy77]

Why is Clark Kent in a Spider-man comic?

http://www.samruby.com/Villains/BigWheel/JacksonWheel.gif

My god...the conspiracy runs deeper...


Does Professor X moonlight as Lex Luthor???

[davegraham]

I see what you're saying, but really you're just saying you wouldn't like that story. It doesn't change the enjoyment you already had reading it. It's not real history, and I just don't understand why it has to be untouchable. That's the point of these funny books. And as many have pointed out, nothing is going to happen to the books you've alreayd read. They're not going anywhere. Those stories aren't going to change.

I mean, wouldn't it make sense that it wasn't Tony Stark? It might be a weaker story in your opinion, but it's no less valid. I guess I just don't hold this stuff so close to my vest, so I say throw some shit at the wall.

I don't have a vest.

See, I can't enjoy it unless I get into it at that level. That is to say, there would have to be some sort of tell, cleverly hidden in plain sight, that would have established Tony was a Skrull and it would have had to have been placed at some point in continuity before Civil War or Infinity Gauntlet or the stories about his alcoholism or whenever. Because when you retcon those stories you mess with his characterization. Part of my enjoyment of comics is reading the story. Another part of it is guessing what will happen next. I use characterization as apart of the process of deducing what is going to occur next. That is fun to me. When you can retcon your plot into continuity you obstruct part of the fun I get from reading your story. Granted it is fun to be thrown for a loop every now and then. I don't fear that Bendis doing a retcon will ruin my comics. I fear it catching on as a popular device to tell stories.

[cam-]

http://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u116/fredhosley/NA_Babyskrull.gif

See, that's the big problem I had with this issue, the colouring there isn't clear enough!!! Those Baby eyes should be super-green.

[nick-b]

ok, I have to admit that I was suprised by the ending of New Avengers #31, and I liked that. But as time went by, I started thinking about what this could possibly mean for the Marvel Universe at large, and Im not sure that I like where it could possibly go. I mean, Im totally down with the idea of "who can we trust?" or "whos a skrull?" Some of my favorite episodes of 'Deep Space Nine' used the same kind of plot device with the changlings. The story possiblities are great. But i REALLY hope that they dont use this as an opportunity to re-establish the old status quo. I just read a newsarama interview with Bendis about this and he says that theyre not using this as an easy way out. He says "House of M happened, Civil War happened." Which is good, cuz point is, if Tony Stark turns out to be a skrull, I am not going to buy any more marvel comics for a long time. The way I hope it goes is along the lines of skrulls pulling strings in the background forcing heroes like tony and reed do things that they normally wouldnt do without the knowledge that theyre being manipulated. I dont know, I just read the issue yesterday and havent had anyone to talk to about it, so I thought Id see what you guys all thought.

So, what do you think?

[senoj1]

Skrulls are gonna be fun. I'm more excited over this than the Initiative.

[conorkilpatrick]

Which is good, cuz point is, if Tony Stark turns out to be a skrull, I am not going to buy any more marvel comics for a long time.

We're going to hold you to that, you know. :)

[davegraham]

I don't think Tony is going to end up being a Skrull, but I do think he is aware of their presense. I think a lot of his actions over the past year could be interpreted as him trying to prep the Earth to fight the Skrulls.

If it is anyone in the Illuminati I am going to go with Namor, because he acts fishy (sorry, I could not resist). Possibly Reed, because he has been an a-hole of of late.

[cam-]

I just had a thought.

What if Wolvie is a Skrull. I mean if he's not then wouldn't he have smelled the difference in Elektra? Or any of his team members who have different scents all of a sudden.

Right?