REVIEW: 'Psylocke' #9 - No Mercy In Kyoto

Keith M.
1 day ago
3 min read

When the From the Ashes era titles were announced, I was surprised to see so many solo series included. Psylocke, however, felt like a natural fit. If you’ve been following the Krakoan era, you’ll know that Kwannon quickly became a standout character. Her appeal goes beyond her ninja skills and psychic powers; it’s her painful past and sharply defined personality that have truly set her apart. Fortunately, writer Wong seems to understand that completely.

In this issue, Psylocke returns to Kyoto, to the very place where she was once trained to become the assassin she is today. There, she comes face-to-face with Mitsuki, an old friend she believed had died. Early on in the series, we learned that Mitsuki could connect and share energy with Yokai, and that ability now appears to explain her survival. She was saved by one Yokai in particular—the Lady in White, a spirit known for protecting lost children and punishing those who harm them. Along with other Yokai, the Lady in White helped Mitsuki recover until she was strong enough to take revenge on the master who nearly ended her life.

But something about Mitsuki is different. As Kwannon observes, the quiet and kind girl she once knew is gone. Mitsuki not only took vengeance on their old master, but has since taken his place as leader of the Hand—the secretive ninja organization that holds power over much of Japan. With the aid of her Yokai allies, she has already taken control of the Kyoto branch and now hopes to use Kwannon to conquer the rest, whether she agrees to help or not.

This part of the story is especially powerful. Watching Kwannon realize that she may have lost another loved one to darkness is emotionally gutting. The situation becomes even more disturbing when Mitsuki suggests that she could have the Lady in White possess Kwannon. Given Kwannon’s traumatic history with loss of autonomy and identity, this threat feels deeply personal and painful. It lands like a blow to the heart.

Not all hope is lost, though. There’s an intriguing subplot developing, as Greycrow and Devon are also in Japan. They appear to be on Mitsuki’s trail, discovering a marking similar to the one that suddenly appeared on Kwannon and may be the cause of her visions. One that might either ward off possession or serve as a seal allowing spiritual entry. It’s a small but meaningful thread that adds mystery and tension to the narrative.

Wong continues to deliver more than just a solo superhero comic. She offers a rich, emotional character study that delves into who Kwannon is and what she continues to endure. The storytelling is filled with drama, depth, and genuine surprise. Even when it feels like Psylocke is being pushed to her limits once again, her resilience remains unshakable. She always finds a way to rise stronger and more determined than before, so I’m eager to see what issue #10 brings for our Lady of Mercy.

About Psylocke #9

Release Date: July 23, 2025

Written by: Alyssa Wong

Art by: Vincenzo Carratu

Cover by: Mahmud Asrar

Page Count: 26

Synopsis: Psylocke has found the home of the man who trained her and rebuilt her into a weapon. Can she face what lives within those walls? And what devious creature is watching them from afar?