Warning: SPOILERS for Venom #21
The Avengers movies gave fans the version of Captain America they know and love. But with Venom, those who knew Eddie Brock as a villain or nemesis to Spider-Man were shocked to learn who he had actually become in modern Marvel Comics. We've already made the case that Venom should join the Avengers on film, but now Steve Rogers himself is backing up the idea in Marvel's own universe.
Those who have been following Eddie Brock's latest Venom series know how many times he's saved Earth -- without getting any credit for it. First came killing Knull the symbiote god's dragon. Then came the Absolute Carnage event putting the Avengers themselves into danger. Clearly Marvel's top team took notice of how Eddie Brock embraced Cap's spirit (and shield), winning the day... and their respect, as well. Enough to warrant him an interview.
The scene in question arrives in Venom #21 (read our preview), when Eddie is escorted via flying limousine to Avengers Mountain in the Arctic Circle. And while Eddie doesn't even seem to know exactly why he's been invited, Captain America himself is waiting to greet him.
The scene that follows keeps readers in the dark along with Eddie, unsure about the reasoning behind his invitation. To the world at large, Venom defeated Carnage in the previous event without further fallout. What the public doesn't know, including the Avengers, is that Eddie vanquished Carnage by absorbing the symbiote into his own body. A noble sacrifice and, under normal circumstances, a challenge Eddie and his symbiote Other would be able to tackle. But knowing that doing so also awakened Knull to come for Earth, Eddie is carrying several burdens on his shoulders when taking Cap's call.
Given all these secrets and struggles being managed in private, a bit of apprehension from Eddie makes perfect sense. After all, he's not just worrying about himself or his symbiote these days, but his recently discovered son, Dylan. Any question about Eddie's love or dedication to his son went out the window when Carnage came for Dylan, spurring Eddie into risking the world for his son's life. But while Eddie was making those heroic, selfless decisions... Captain America was apparently taking notice. Because he hasn't just brought Eddie to Avengers Mountain to offer him membership. Eddie's already got his vote.
The assembled heroes of the current Avengers roster -- She-Hulk, Blade, Captain Marvel, Ghost Rider, Thor, and Iron Man -- are guaranteed to have differing opinions about the one-time villain turned defender of Earth. But it might actually be the most significant to point out that Thor, God of the Unworthy, pays Eddie even greater respect than Steve Rogers. Having witnessed Eddie's defense of the innocent and magic symbiote battle skills during Marvel's massive War of the Realms, the God of Thunder says he "would be honored to have a warrior such as... the two of you by my side."
Unfortunately, being faced with these heroes is exactly what Carnage's symbiote needs to rear its ugly head in Eddie's psyche, voicing its ravenous desire to kill and consume them. Not a completely new risk to Eddie Brock, but one he decides he needs to take care of before enlisting with Earth's Mightiest Heroes. The beginning of the "Venom Island" arc for Eddie looks to rid himself of the Carnage infection. So will he return to accept Steve's offer once that mission is finished? Fans will need to wait and see what Eddie finds on "Venom Island," continuing in Venom #22 later this month.
- VENOM #22
- Release Date: January 8th, 2020
- Written by: Donny Cates
- Art by: Mark Bagley
- Cover by: Mark Bagley
- “VENOM ISLAND” PART II Donny Cates’ VENOM epic continues in grand fashion after ABSOLUTE CARNAGE, joined by industry legend and celebrated VENOM artist Mark Bagley. That’s all you’re getting out of us for this one, True Believers! After all, ABSOLUTE CARNAGE isn’t quite over yet…
Venom #21 is available now in your local comic book shop.