New Avengers (Vol. 2) #7 (Story 1)

Background

Last issue The New Avengers saved the world from mystical invaders. The victory cost Dr. Voodoo his life who sacrificed himself to save the world.

Story Details

Outside The Avengers mansion the team are surveying the damage caused by the battle. The next day Dr. Strange wakes up and meets the team downstairs for breakfast. Strange is about to leave when the team all agree he’s welcome to join them while he searches for the new Sorcerer Supreme. Victoria Hand interrupts and tells them they have some business to take care of. Spidey realises Hand previously worked for Norman Osborn while he was in charge of H.A.M.M.E.R. Spidey decides it’s time for him to leave the team if she’s going to be working with them. Hand explains that even though Osborn was a sick man he did have some good ideas and is being punished for his crimes. Luke tells him that Captain America vouches for her. Spidey decides to stay. Hand gives everyone a paycheck. Cage disagrees about being paid but his wife Jessica Jones tells him they need the money after being underground for so long. Spidey tells Hand he didn’t receive one, she tells him he cannot be paid as officially no one knows who he is. Hand also tells them they have budget for some house help. Jessica says she could do with a nanny. Wolverine says he’ll do it but Cage says no.

Later we see various former Avengers, (including the long missing Echo) being interviewed. Many believe they are being recruited by the team and are disappointed it’s for the nanny job. Finally Squirrel Girl is picked and after an awkward reunion Wolverine, apparently they used to date. Dr. Strange’s long time assistant Wong also returns to the team in a rather sarcastic mood. Spidey asks if anyone else feels the tears coming on. Hand tells them all they’re insane.

General Comments

Great issue from Bendis and Immonen, no action but many questions are answered. The art by Immonen is great and how he manages to draw so many characters and keep a monthly schedule is beyond me. Also Bendis writes some great humour here and proves why he’s still one of the best in the business today.

We now have a full roster and the funding issue has been cleared up. I do love the idea of Spidey not being paid while being an Avenger, but he’s doing well in Amazing Spider-Man so that’s ok. We also see Echo who was one of the first New Avengers and has not been seen since the Secret Invasion.

Overall Rating

Great stand alone issue by Bendis and Immonen which great art and some answers.