The Astonishing
X-Men gather to help Wolverine and rescue the missing Karma after a
gruesome encounter that took place during Northstar's wedding
celebration. The focus of the story is Cecilia Reyes, a somewhat
obscure but well-liked former X-Man who recently rejoined the fray.
Her preference to practice medicine over a life of adventure has
always been a distinctive quality of this character, and one that
makes her very appealing.
![](cool/astonishingxmen53-2.jpg)
What Liu does in
this issue is play with the idea that despite her reluctance, deep
inside Cecilia likes being part of the X-Men's heroics. Her flirting
relationship with Beast also goes a long way back, and is brought to
the forefront once again; this has potential for interesting
dynamics with Agent Brand -Beast's current love interest. This issue
establishes a good the balance between characterization and action,
but the artwork finishes are somewhat lackluster.
![](cool/astonishingxmen53-3.jpg)