Scarlet Spider #13

In the Midst of Wolves Part 1

Ever since rescuing a young telepathic girl named Aracely from the nightmare of human trafficking, Kaine has taken to protecting her in his decision to use his powers for good. But that works against his attempt to stay out of trouble because now, Kaine's confrontation with the human trafficking underworld has attracted the attention of new and deadly enemies – werewolves.

Writer Chris Yost | Pencils Khoi Pham | Inks Palmer, Pallot and Bit | Colours D’Auria, Mossa and Fabela | Cover Stegman and Delgadd

By having his own series, Kaine is really becoming his own but still shows reluctance to be or not to be a super hero, a premise Chris Yost is having fun writing. He’s coming out from underneath Peter Parker’s shadow and the shadows of his past. It’s fulfilling to witness Kaine pursue and gain happiness with the help of his new friends, even if it doesn’t come too easy for him. But Kaine’s not a complete stranger when it comes to struggles. As a clone of Spiderman, Kaine’s been through struggles all his life. Artists Pham and Palmer draw him with this in mind; he looks thicker, more rugged than Parker and he’s inked.

In this issue and against his wish, Kaine is compelled to get rid of human trafficking in Houston, but he’s starting to realize that even with all his efforts and his super powers, the problem might be beyond his scope. And despite that, he keeps on fighting. It’s the Peter Parker conscience. Writer Chris Yost captures the frustrations of trying to take down human trafficking and makes you (and Kaine) feel helpless. On top of that, Kaine has to deal with a vicious pair called ‘The Wolves’ who may have a connection to Aracely. In a dream sequence, drawn beautifully by the artists, illustrates that the mysterious young lady with telepathic powers is connected to some Aztec history. It’s a little unclear, but Yost’s makes sure we get to know more about her while still preserving our intrigue.

The arrival of ‘The Wolves’ sets this arc nicely for a heavier tone with a feeling that some mystic forces may come to play. The pace didn’t falter and there were no extra unnecessary portions. There’s also a great fight scene that keeps you on the edge of your seat and then by the end of the issue, you want more. There is suddenly an air of imminent danger and it’s been an enjoyable series so far. As Yost delves deeper into Kaine’s struggles to become a man, he has fun challenging himself with the question “What is Kaine capable of?” All I know now is that Kaine is more than just a killer.