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Introducing Amaranth! Scarlet Witch #6 by writer Steve Orlando, artist Lorenzo Tammetta, colorist Frank William & letterer Ariana Maher.
Agatha returns to Lotkill
Previously in Scarlet Witch Annual #1 (2023), Wanda had a sparring session with Agatha Harkness. Agatha believed Wanda was incapable of imprisoning Chthon forever. So, she stole Chthon’s heart to try to create a new Darkhold. Now that Chthon has gone missing, Agatha is back in Lotkill. Paying a visit to her former student the Scarlet Witch. In simple terms, Agatha is here to say: “I told you so”. Or does Agatha have other reasons?
Tale from the Crypt of Shadows
In case you didn’t read this year’s Crypt of Shadows, no worries. Here’s what you need to know. Long story short, Agatha peaked into the future, and she did not like what she saw. Seems like Agatha has a new student. Since she refers to Amaranth as her ward.
*Spoilers for Scarlet Witch #6 ahead*
Passing the Torch
Despite the way their last encounter went, Wanda welcomed Agatha to her Magic shop once again. Even if this welcome is rather cold, Agatha got the chance to seek the help of the Scarlet Witch just like everyone else. First the witches exchanged pleasantries and personal. Finally, Agatha revealed the reason for her visit, she wanted Wanda to take her ward Amaranth as her Magic apprentice.
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Introducing Amaranth!
The first one to meet Amaranth was Darcy Lewis, the Magic Shop’s manager. At first, Darcy was nice and cordial. Once Darcy knew why Amaranth was there, her demeanor changed. After all, Darcy remembers what happened to the previous apprentice of the Scarlet Witch. His name was Mantor, a powerful magician who became an occult appraiser. Mantor met his maker when the Griever at the End of All Things attacked Lotkill. Due to the unfortunate ending of Mantor, Darcy objects to Amaranth becoming an apprentice. Eventually, Wanda shut down Darcy’s objections without a debate. The Scarlet Witch was set on taking Agatha Harkness’s Ward as her student.
Who is Amaranth?
Unlike the typical first appearance of comic book characters, there is no big exposition about Amaranth. Most of her background is a mystery, even to herself. All se remembers is being adopted by a good man who turned mad. With reason or not, Amaranth blames herself for that unfortunate outcome. After that, she met Agatha who took her in as her ward. However, even the great Agatha couldn’t unlock Amaranths memories. The young Amaranth is clearly a witch, the issue is she has no knowledge or control over her powers.
Timid but Brave
Even though Amaranth has a sad and timid demeanor personality, she possesses and incredible sense of bravery and loyalty. During her welcome with Wanda, they were ambushed the Eliminator. A spell-resistant android of sorts. While this was a hostile moment, it served well to show the character of Amaranth. For in the end, when push came to shove, Amaranth stepped up to save the day. Impressing even the Scarlet Witch. Regardless of Amaranth’s lack understanding of how power, magic came to her instinctively. In the end, Amaranth believed she was going to be rejected due to her mess. But the contrary was true, the Scarlet Witch was even more excited about her new prospect.
How about the art?
Lorenzo Tammetta story telling skills for magic and magical creatures is unmatched. Also, Frank William’s coloring bring the excitement of the magical side of Marvel Comics to life. If I had to take snapshots of this issue to explain how great the art is, I would choose any the 4 amazing splash pages in it. Everything is just too beautiful.
I give this issue a 9 out of 10.
Steve Orlando’s portrayal of Wanda Maximoff The Scarlet Witch continues to be my personal favorite, by far. Wanda in this issue is kind, welcoming and empathetic towards Amaranth. The fact that she took Agatha Harkness’ ward under her wing is proof that Wanda is willing to help anyone. Not just those who come through the Last Door. Finally, the mystery of Amaranth has the possibility to bring a new side of Wanda we don’t get to see often. Wanda the mentor. Once again, I highly recommend you get caught up with Steve Orlando’s era of the Scarlet Witch.
