Summary
Warning: contains spoilers for X-Men: Heir of Apocalypse #4Theiconic Cheyenne hero Dani Moonstar, also known as theX-Menlegend Mirage, is one of the most beloved characters from emerge from the “New Mutants” era of mutantkind. Since Dani’s debut, the fierce mutant warrior has been a teacher, Valkyrie, undercover spy, and team leader, but her talents and experience have often been underutilized.X-Men: Heir of Apocalypse#4addresses this underutilization, andhints that Mirage may take over as the “Professor X” of a new mutant institutein the future.
Dani Moonstar first debuted in 1982’s Marvel Graphic Novel #4, created by Chris Claremont and Bob McLeod.
Dani Moonstar was one of twelve powerful mutants chosen by En Sabah Nur to enter intoa trial to become the heir of Apocalypse, and whileMirage “failed” at this trial, the tribulations may have revealed an even better future for the hero.
X-Men: Heir of Apocalypse#4, from writer Steve Foxe and artist Netho Diaz, sees En Sabah Nur make his final decision on who will become his successor, butfirst he gives Dani Moonstar the gift of reflection, whichallows Mirage to seethe “possibility” in her future, as she sits in Xavier’s old chair.
[SPOILER] Is Named Apocalypse’s Official Successor, Changing X-Men Lore Forever
Apocalypse’s search for an official successor has ended, as the X-Men hero Cypher is transformed into En Sabah Nur’s heir, the powerful Revelation.
Dani Moonstar Would Make A Perfect School Headmaster
Mirage has years of experience and the right attitude
WhenNew Mutantsfirst debuted, it was clear that Sam Guthrie - the incredible Cannonball - was being trained by Cyclops and the other X-Men to be the leader of the young mutant squad. However, over the years,it became clear that Mirage was the true leader, a fearless and capable warrior with a kind heart and an unbreakable spirit. This became even more apparent after M-Day, which caused Dani to lose her mutant powers. Even without her superhero ability… Dani remained a superhero, fighting alongside her friends and chosen family for mutant rights and a safe future.
I see greatness dormant in you, Mirage. Or are my eyes deceived by your namesake?
Mirage also has experience as a teacher both at the Xavier Institute and on Krakoa as well. Dani is level-headed, culturally reflexive, and the perfect mentor for any mutant who struggles with controlling their powers. InHeir of Apocalypse#4 the titular En Sabah Nur comments that Dani has never met her “full potential,“something many readers agree with, but only because she hasn’t been given the chance in stories, and that she has always stood in “the shadow of greatness.” At first, Apocalypse says Dani’s stagnation could lead to “pestilence,” hinting Dani might become the Horseman of Pestilence, but Mirage retorts that she sees only possibility, while sitting at Xavier’s old desk.
Mirage Has Lived Many Different Powerful Lives
Yet Dani has been an incredible hero in each life
The X-Men’s currentFrom the Ashesera sees mutantkind scrambling to pick up the pieces of their shattered utopia after the tragic fall of Krakoa, and the Xavier Institute is not currently operational. However, one day, another mutant academy will open, andno one makes more sense for Headmaster than Dani Moonstar. Mirage has lived so many diverse lives, as an Asgardian Valkyrie, as a S.H.I.E.L.D. agent, and as a team leader, that in practically any situation a young mutant would find herself, Dani would know how to respond.
Dani Moonstar deserves more attention, andher brilliant self would shine if she was given the proper spotlight. Hopefully, the vision that Mirage has thanks to Apocalypse is all the inspiration she needs to become the newestX-Menheadmaster, ushering in the next generation of mutants wherever they might appear.
X-Men: Heir of Apocalypse#4from Marvel Comics is available now in stores.
