Unexpected Respect: Kang the Conqueror Acknowledges a Previously Underrated Marvel Villain

Kang the Conqueror stands out as one of Marvel’s shrewdest strategists, wielding the universe’s most formidable weapons and bending time to his will. However, even the great conqueror finds himself in need of a reliable ally, especially when facing formidable foes like the Avengers. As Kang executes his intricate schemes, he has surprisingly enlisted the help of a once Spider-Man villain-turned-anti-hero: Black Cat.

The intrigue grew when Scarlet Witch uncovered that a high-stakes gambling venue contained a crucial data chip linked to Kang’s secrets regarding the Missing Moment. However, the Avengers were not the first to arrive; a more adept thief had already made off with the goods.

Now, Kang has allied himself with the Multiverse’s most skilled thief, Black Cat, as they scheme to reclaim his stolen information. Felicia Hardy, though usually out of her depth in cosmic chess games, is caught up in a plot that surpasses her typical escapades.

Black Cat and Kang the Conqueror: Marvel’s Unlikely Duo Takes on the Avengers

Image of Black Cat in a dress at an intergalactic casino

Reuniting since their last encounter in Avengers #10, the Avengers face an age-old adversary: Kang the Conqueror. Their previous confrontation had seen them ensnared in a perilous clash with the seemingly heroic Myrddin, the crono-wizard. To unlock the enigmatic Missing Moment, both Kang and Myrddin need the aid of heroes. The Avengers, unable to thwart Myrddin at that time, have intensified Kang’s disdain toward them, setting the stage for an inevitable clash. Now, with Felicia Hardy at his side, Kang’s return is sure to disrupt their plans.

Although Black Cat often acts on impulse and possesses a flexible moral compass, she is not intrinsically malevolent. Her longstanding connections with Spider-Man and other New York heroes have dulled her edge as a criminal. Frequently, she steps into a heroic role when circumstances demand it. With her partnership with Kang, it is uncertain whether Black Cat has switched allegiances or if they both pursue a greater mission. For now, it seems the Avengers face formidable opponents, as Kang seeks a trustworthy ally to outmaneuver Myrddin and secure the Missing Moment.

Kang and Black Cat Play a High-Stakes Game Against the Avengers: The Reason Behind Felicia’s Alliance Remains Unclear

The Master Game at Play in Avengers #23

Felicia Hardy's Black Cat as a villain in Marvel Comics

Contrary to a straightforward villainous betrayal, Black Cat and Kang appear to be engaging the Avengers in a calculated game. As they elude capture in Avengers #23, Kang and Black Cat wear enigmatic smiles, seemingly relishing the emotional toll on their opposition. At one point, Black Cat even playfully suggests adopting a more villainous guise to provoke the Avengers further. Mastery in manipulation might be her true forte, and her alliance with Kang serves a distinct purpose, as both have confirmed that heroes are essential for unlocking the Missing Moment.

Ultimately, Kang requires the Avengers to fulfill his ambitions. While the heroes are bound by chronological constraints, he and Black Cat navigate the Multiverse without such limitations.Kang is a mastermind who consistently outmatches lesser adversaries. Even in failure, his legacy persists, with another version ready to spring into action. To execute his plans and secure the Missing Moment, Kang has strategically chosen Black Cat, whose cunning and allure are vital to his mission.

Avengers #23 is set for release on February 5, 2025, from Marvel Comics.

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