Way of X #3 cover. Image by Giuseppe Camuncoli and Marte Gracia/MarvelAlthough the X-Men are not shy about sharing and combining DNA, they have been open to swapping it with each other. However, post-House of X, the notion of mutants procreating is being explored in Way of X by Si Spurrier, Bob Quinn, Java Tartaglia and Clayton Cowles.AdvertisementThe end of Marvels House of X saw the X-Men, along with their Krakoan counterparts, vow to continue their mission to create a new age of mutant ascendance. After everyone had had a chance to adjust to the new status quo (and it is still changing), there was more time for people to explore the implications of Krakoa's existence on mutant society.Krakoa is more than a place to hold events and a safe haven for mutantkind. It has also become a way of living that Way of X has explored the moral implications of. Nightcrawler's journey as he reconciles Catholicism with his deep-felt belief Krakoas ideals. Charles Xavier's and the X-Mens' plans for the future in which mutant deaths are a temporary inconvenience seem to have abundance and excess as core elements. Nightcrawlers have been asking questions about Krakoa's spirituality and the people who are working towards it. These ideas are of particular significance in Kurts case as they reflect his human religiousity.Nightcrawler sluts around the Hellfire Gala. Image: Bob Quinn. Java Tartaglia. Clayton Cowles/MarvelWay of X #3 opens in an extremely drunk Nightcrawler teleporting through Hellfire Galas dancing floor where he briefly catches-up with a few of his old friends Kyle and Northstar, as well as Meggan (for whom Kurt still carries a torch) and Brian Braddock. Krakoa's first lawmake more mutations3is the subject of much conversation. Kyle and Northstar discuss Meggans pregnancy, as well as the challenges that the mandate presents to same-sex couples. Kyle's offhand comment raises important questions about the implications Krakoas laws will have for mutant society long-term and what goals mutants would be committed to their lives. House of X presented the provocative promise of X-Men comics to make more mutants. They would use characters' sexuality and romantic entanglements in order to create fascinating plot points for their future.Although Kurt tries to hide his shame in front Meggan, Brian and Brian, Kyle believes Krakoa's first law contains heteronormativity. This is something that is worth considering. The first law, unlike Krakoa's other two lawsmurder not man and respect the sacred territory of Krakoa, isn't a mandate but an encouragement to people to pursue their sexual desires, particularly if they lead to the creation or continuation of offspring. Although there has never been a mandate for mutants not to marry or throuple up, and create nuclear families like humans, this is the M.O. One of the most prominent power couples in the X-Men's history has been recognized as an example of Krakoan society. It is unusual for a family unit to form with Jean Grey, Cyclops and Wolverine, as well as all their children, but convoluted procreation has been a signature of their identities, as well their interconnected legacy.It is easy to see why, in a world that the X-Men are regarded as the epitome of mutant excellence, the first laws might be read as a call for action to be the next great Summer-Grey gene template for gene-obsessed madmen such as Sinister to fixate on. Kurts must consider a more urgent and pressing matter as he travels around the Gala: what happens to all the children born to mutants and who decide they don't want to parent.AdvertisementDavid Hallers' help helps Mercury and Loa to get to know each other. Image by Bob Quinn, Java Tartaglia and Clayton Cowles/MarvelNightcrawler meets Stacy X when he is shocked to learn that the pheromone manipulator uses her powers to help people let go of their inhibitions and encourages them to use contraception if things get sexual. Stacy X creates a safe space for people to have intimate relationships with each other in the Bower.AdvertisementKurt finds it difficult to accept the notion that people may find growth, comfort and meaning in sexual relationships that aren't procreative. Despite the fact that such connections are vital for Loa and Mercury, who have powers that make sexual contact difficult, Kurt is unable to. After Loa's ability to tear apart everything she touches, Mercury's metallic hand is shredded after they attempt to hookup. With the help of David Haller who has telepathic abilities, the Bower allows them to have a mind-bending moment together.As surprising as Loa and Mercurys unexpected pairing are, it is the Bowers nursery full of children who end up really underlining some of the most important ideas Way of X #3 lays out as the issue wraps up. Despite all the potential Krakoa holds, it seems that not much thought has been given to what to do with the nation's newborn children. It is clear that no child of Krakoa's would want anything, even if they were to know their biological parents one day. The Bowers nursery is a precursor to a Krakoa in which the state welcomes gifted children soldiers into a larger version of Charles Xaviers' original school for gifted children soldiers.AdvertisementStacy X explains how sometimes babies are the unintended consequences sex. Image: Bob Quinn. Java Tartaglia. Clayton Cowles/MarvelStacy X's Bower work is addressing an often overlooked aspect of people's needs in their role as members of a larger society. However, at a time when X-Men are overtly colonizing human sovereign countries and terraforming other worlds, mutants running around squeezing kids out of national pride only increases the cult-like vibes that dominate the X-Men comics. It feels safe to assume that whatever happens will have long-lasting consequences for all, including the children.AdvertisementWay of X #3 is now in stockAre you curious about where our RSS feed went. The new one can be found here.
