Summary
Warning: Contains SPOILERS for Exceptional X-Men #1!As theX-Menventure into an all-new era following the tragically climactic Fall of X, the series is introducing a new mutant hero named Bronze, who unveils an attack-focused twist onColossus’ powers. Not only that, but Bronze will soon be a member of an original X-Men affiliated team, one that’s led by none other thanthe former Marauders’ captain herself, Kate Pryde.
In a preview shared byAIPT ComicsforExceptional X-Men#1 by Eve L. Ewing and Carmen Carnero, a teenager named Trista is trying to get into a concert, but they’ve been turned away by the bouncer, who isn’t letting them in for seemingly no reason. The stress they’re experiencing, especially given the embarrassment by the fact that they’re friends are able to go in, but Trista isn’t, triggers Trista’s mutation for the first time, giving fans a perfect first-look at their Colossus-like powers.
Right before fans’ eyes, Trista (who thought they were just a regular human teenager until this point) became the newest X-Men recruit, Bronze - and their powers are, indeed, exceptional. Like Colossus, Bronze is able to cover themself in a natural metal produced by their body. However, unlike Colossus, Bronze also produces metal tendrils that they can use to attack their enemies, giving them a notable advantage over the original metal-head mutant.
Bronze’s New X-Men Mentor is Perfect (for 1 Weird Reason)
In this preview, Bronze is nearly killed by the bouncer, as societal anti-mutant sentiment is at an all-time high since the Fall of X. However, Bronze is saved by Kate Pryde, who was walking home from work when she saw this mutant all alone, facing the bad end of a gun. While the preview ends before fans get the chance to see the actual save, Bronze’s position as a member of the new Exceptional X-Men implies Kate got to them in time, which also implies that Kate is the one who recruits Bronze and takes them under her wing.
It’s interesting that Kate Pryde is about to be the mentor of someone who basically has an upgraded version of Colossus’ power, as Kate and Colossus share a long history inX-Mencanon. Not only have they been friends and partners for decades, but Shadowcat and Colossus were romantically involved for a time, and even got married in a few alternate timelines. It seems Kate is naturally drawn to mutants with this powerset, or - more likely - it’s just a big coincidence. Either way, the similarities are interesting.
Bronze Has the Potential to be X-Men’s Most Badass Hero Yet
Despite their connection to Kate Pryde (which will be thoroughly explored as the series progresses), Bronze’s badass powers allow them to stand on their own. Organic metal shell with bronze tendrils they control with their mind? That’s simply awesome. And the best part is that fans don’t even know how powerful Bronze will become, as this preview is quite literally their first-ever appearance. However, with what’s been put on display so far, it’s a safe bet that Bronze won’t disappoint.
The future of the X-Men is brighter than ever, not just because they’re getting the chance to rebuild following their somber victory during the Fall of X, but because new mutants are being introduced to help the team reach its former glory. And right now, one of the most exciting new additions is Bronze, as this newX-Menhero wields a power with an attack-focused twist onColossus’ iconic mutation.
Source:AIPT Comics
X-Men
The X-Men franchise, created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, centers on mutants with extraordinary abilities. Led by the powerful telepath Professor Charles Xavier, they battle discrimination and villainous mutants threatening humanity. The series explores themes of diversity and acceptance through a blend of action, drama, and complex characters, spanning comics, animated series, and blockbuster films.
