After Years of Development, the Fantastic Four’s Latest Member Is Prepared to Showcase Their True Power

Warning: Spoilers for Fantastic Four #27

The Fantastic Four is renowned for its iconic team of heroes, but the latest issue introduces a dynamic new character. Nicki Masters-Grimm, the Skrull daughter of the Thing, has finally unleashed her extraordinary potential in a recent battle against a notable adversary. Through her courage and prowess, Nicki proves she is ready to stand shoulder to shoulder with the adult heroes of the Fantastic Four.

In Fantastic Four #27, crafted by the talented team of Ryan North, Steven Summings, Jesus Aburtov, and Joe Caramagna, Nicki takes center stage. As a Skrull, she wields unique abilities which include shape-shifting, enabling her to transform into various forms. Despite the common perception of Skrulls as villains, Nicki is resolute in her mission to harness her abilities for honorable causes.

Fantastic Four 27 Nicki declares that she is a Skrull who can shapeshift but wants to use her powers for good

By developing her mastery over shape-shifting, Nicki emerges as one of the most promising new heroes within the ranks of the Fantastic Four, displaying an impressive enhancement of her powers due to her Skrull lineage.

The Thing’s Daughter Explores Her Skrull Powers in a Bold New Way

Nicki Masters-Grimm Can Transform Into Each of the Fantastic Four Heroes

Nicki’s Skrull capabilities empower her not just to alter her own appearance, but also to imitate the forms of others. Although Skrulls are often viewed through a villainous lens for their deceptive shape-shifting, Nicki subverts this notion by transforming into the Thing to assist her brother, Jo-Venn, during a tricky encounter with their school principal. While her powers may hint at subterfuge, they are ultimately aimed at safeguarding others rather than misleading them.

Initially, Nicki employs her transformations for trivial purposes. However, she soon acknowledges the value in her ability to mimic the Thing’s form for more constructive acts. By stepping into her father’s shoes—figuratively and literally—she discovers that she can navigate through walls and deliver powerful strikes, effectively gaining his super-strength. This remarkable facet of her skills positions Nicki as a hero with unparalleled potential, capable of wielding immense power through her shape-shifting abilities.

Yet, her abilities do not end with the Thing alone. During a school attack by Mole Man, Nicki showcases her versatility by transforming into various members of the Fantastic Four to protect her classmates. She successfully channels Mister Fantastic’s iconic stretchiness, indicating that her Skrull biology allows her to emulate their powers without literal appropriation. This remarkable aptitude illustrates how ingrained the Fantastic Four’s heroic values have become in her own development as a budding hero.

Joining the Fantastic Four Family Helped Nicki Become a Hero

The Thing and His Teammates Give Nicki an Example to Follow

Empire: Fantastic Four variant art with The Thing, his children, Johnny and Sue, and Skrulls

Initially known as N’Kalla, Nicki’s life was marked by the hostility between the Skrulls and Kree. The Fantastic Four’s positive influence altered the course of her relationship with her brother Jo-Venn, transforming their shared hatred into a supportive sibling bond. In Empyre Fallout: Fantastic Four, Ben Grimm and Alicia Masters adopt both Nicki and Jo, offering them a fresh start amidst their people’s reconciliation post-conflict.

Transitioning into Earth’s societal norms presents its challenges for Nicki and Jo, but they absorb valuable lessons from their adoptive family that guide their growth into heroes. Remarkably, in Fantastic Four #16, Nicki learns from Franklin and Valeria Richards the importance of honesty over deception even in precarious situations. This journey has not only strengthened her virtues but has also refined her power, expanding beyond mere shape-changing.

Nicki Decides to Fight as Herself Instead of Fighting as the Fantastic Four

Once She Embraces Her Skrull Powers, Nicki Unlocks Her Full Potential

During her confrontation with the wicked Mole Man, Nicki begins by utilizing the powers of the Fantastic Four through imitation; however, she eventually discovers the strength of embodying her true Skrull nature. This revelation transforms her into a more formidable force as she realizes her potential exceeding that of merely replicating her teammates’ powers. When confronted, she creatively solidifies her form into gold, rendering Mole Man’s attacks futile. Moreover, she showcases her strength by expanding her musculature, emphasizing her capacity to unlock her innate power without the need to mimic the Thing.

Though still on the learning curve compared to her experienced counterparts, Nicki’s dedication suggests she could soon be an invaluable asset to the Fantastic Four. As she dominates her battle with Mole Man by leveraging her unique abilities, she confidently states, “I’m an unstoppable force of nature, a whirlwind of smart, helpful, good-guy shape-shifting.” Nicki’s adaptability and resilience position her as one of Marvel’s most promising heroes capable of rising to any challenge.

The Thing’s Daughter Is Ready to Fight Alongside the Fantastic Four

Nicki’s Skrull Abilities Make Her a Promising New Superhero

Fantastic Four 27 Nicki decides to use her Skrull powers to help the Fantastic Four defend the Earth

As the issue reaches its conclusion, Nicki unequivocally expresses her aspiration to emulate her father and his legacy as a protector of Earth. She pledges to safeguard the world she cherishes alongside the Fantastic Four. This commitment signals her impending official membership within the team. With Nicki poised to join their ranks, the Fantastic Four appears set for a vibrant future, ensuring Earth’s safety is well in hand with her warrior spirit and unique abilities.

Fantastic Four #27 is currently available from Marvel Comics.

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