The Khan family space adventure begins in Magnificent Ms. Marvel No. 3
By Alex Widen
Obvious Evil Monarch Is Obvious!
According to Saffan legend, at least as Zeer’s mages tell it, the planet used to be enslaved by the “unseen masters.” All the purple skinned of Saffa toiled to build a great machine, with massive “beast legions” acting as lash-masters. But then a heroine whose costume and powers bare a vague resemblance to Ms. Marvel liberated them from bondage. Yet the beast legions are fated to return and destroy Saffa unless the “Destined One” returns to stop them. Zeer thinks it’s Kamala.
Image by Marvel Comics
Yet it wouldn’t be a suspicious planet without a mysterious rebel alliance. Like any planet (or society, really) with a glitzy monarchy, there’s a rebel alliance working against it. In this case, a man named Cheb Hura leads the locals against Zeer, and at least according to the king, are willing to injure children in random acts of sabotage within the castle. This appalls Kamala, and at least gets her to ignore her own suspicions for a little while longer. Her parents, however, are unconvinced.
Image by Marvel Comics
Both Abu and Ammi see that Zeer is showering Kamala with flattery to cover his secrets. They suspect something amiss immediately and implore Kamala to leave. But even if they did, how would they get back to Earth? And at first, Kamala is committed to the pomp and circumstance. She’s never been a “chosen one” before, not even in Jersey City where half the populace loves her. The Saffan palace is spectacular and it is a chance to explore more scents and foods. Yet before long, the healthy suspicion of her parents sticks with Kamala, and she investigates herself.
Image by Marvel Comics