In the build-up to Empyre, Marvel's mega-event beginning in April, a new tie-in series has been announced titled Lords of Empyre: Celestial Messiah. Written by Alex Paknadel with art by Alex Lins, this second series under the Lords of Empyre banner is set to focus on cosmic heroes Mantis and her son, Quoi. Or as some fans may know him, the "Celestial Messiah" of the Marvel Universe.
Marvel has been sowing the seeds for Empyre for quite some time. While largely set within Marvel's cosmic side, the event will be affecting all corners of the Marvel Universe. The core story revolves around former Young Avenger Teddy Altman AKA Hulking, a shapeshifting hero who is part-Kree and part-Skrull - a noteworthy trait, as the two alien species have long been enemies of each other. In Empyre, Hulkling (now, "Dorrek VIII") has become ruler of a new Kree-Skrull alliance, providing his people with their first major objective: invade Earth. Only the combined efforts of the Avengers, Fantastic Four and Captain Marvel can help defend the planet from the alien invasion. But as the cosmic prophecy of the "King of Space" is coming true, it seems another centering on Mantis is coming to fruition as well.
AIPT has the exclusive on the tie-in series, with Paknadel teasing the role Quoi will be playing in the larger Kree/Skrull/Human conflict. Calling the cosmic heir “one of the more conflicted and intriguing players in the Empyre event,” it should go without saying that even for comics, the long and convoluted history of the "Celestial Messiah" can be difficult to pin down. Its story begins early in Mantis' life, when a Kree prophecy arose stating that Mantis would be the "Celestial Madonna," an individual who would form a union with a Cotati male (a plant-like race) and, together, they would have a child. That "Celestial Messiah" would change the universe in profound ways. This ultimately occurred while Mantis was affiliated with the Avengers during a conflict involving Kang the Conqueror. It all culminated in Fantastic Four #325 when Mantis had a child with a Cotati who had taken the form of her deceased former-lover and Avenger, the Swordsman, and that child was Seqouia (or Quoi, as he likes to be called). And now, he's all grown up.
The eve of Quoi’s ascension is at hand! But when the trials are interrupted by an unexpected interloper—Mantis—who will win this battle of wills? Don’t miss out as mother and son go head-to-head, revealing secrets that will shape the course of the galaxy!
This tie-in series could prove to be the final piece in the "Celestial Messiah" puzzle that many have been waiting for. Despite the prophecy being introduced decades ago, the true meaning of just what the "Celestial Messiah" means, and what profound effect it may have on the Marvel Universe has yet to be answered. The fact that this series is tied into a massive event and centered directly upon Quoi is even more intriguing for fans of the character. All signs point to the limited series having lasting effects on Quoi, Mantis, and the prophecy of the "Celestial Messiah"... assuming it comes true.
Is Quoi the child that people have fought to find and protect? And will he change the Marvel Universe forever? We will find out soon when Lords of Empyre: The Celestial Messiah #1 hits shelves in May 2020.
Source: AIPT