Marvel is reintroducing Genocide, the son of Apocalypse, in the latest X-Men crossover event. The storyline, titled X-Men: Heir of Apocalypse, follows the quest for a new character to assume the mantle of Apocalypse after the “Fall of X” events. With the mutant nation of Krakoa now thriving independently, En Sabah Nur (Apocalypse) has stepped down from his role. However, he has set a brutal test for any would-be successor, including his own “son,” Genocide.
X-Men: Heir of Apocalypse #2 Preview
Who is Genocide?
Genocide, born William Rolfson, is the son of Apocalypse and Autumn Rolfson, also known as “Famine,” one of Apocalypse’s former horsemen. Autumn, aware of Apocalypse’s ruthless nature, hid William with Clan Akkaba, a secretive mutant cult founded by Apocalypse in ancient times. This group eventually operated independently of him.
William’s mutant abilities, known as “Bio-Furnace Energies,” manifested as bioplasma blasts, necessitating his confinement in a containment suit. Aware that Apocalypse would view him as a threat, Genocide was eventually approached by Archangel, Apocalypse’s temporary successor, for recruitment. Tragically, his mother was killed during this time.
Through his allegiance to Clan Akkaba, Genocide sought to corrupt his father’s legacy. He attempted to contact the Celestial gods who created Apocalypse’s technology to initiate a Celestial Genocide. Additionally, he manipulated Archangel to create a clone horde for a mass culling of Earth. During the “Apocalypse War,” Genocide was seemingly killed by Magneto. However, with Krakoa’s resurrection protocols, Genocide has been brought back to life.
This new storyline will explore Genocide’s return and the challenges he faces as he competes to become the new Apocalypse.
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