The mystical corner of the Marvel Universe is currently undergoing a massive renovation, and in Sorcerer Supreme #2, Steve Orlando, Bernard Chang, and Ruth Redmond are making sure the dust doesn’t just settle: it burns. Following the aftermath of Doctor Doom’s brief and chaotic stint as the Sorcerer Supreme, Wanda Maximoff has stepped up to the plate, claiming the mantle by rescuing the sacred vestments like the Cloak of Levitation and the Eye of Agamotto. But as this issue proves, just because the clothes fit doesn’t mean the neighbors are happy.
Agatha’s Scorched-Earth Policy
The meat of this issue is the high-stakes confrontation between the new self-appointed Sorcerer Supreme, Wanda Maximoff, and the woman who taught her everything she knows: Agatha Harkness.
Orlando wastes no time getting to the conflict. The Vishanti, the elder gods who traditionally bestow the title, are clearly feeling petty. They’ve rejected Wanda’s claim and hand-picked Agatha to take her down. What follows is a brutal, emotionally charged battle above the streets of New York City and inside the Sanctum Sanctorum.
The dialogue here is sharp and highlights the deep-seated tension between the two witches. Wanda views herself as a protector who took what was needed when no one else would; Agatha sees her as a pretender who committed open rebellion. The most gut-wrenching moment comes when Agatha uses the “Will of the Vishanti”, a staff born in the astral plane, to literally cut out Wanda’s astral heart. It’s a literal and metaphorical violation that sets the tone for the rest of the series.
The Visuals: Magic That Feels Dangerous
A comic about the Sorcerer Supreme lives or dies by its art, and artist Bernard Chang, alongside color artist Ruth Redmond, are doing some of their best work here. Chang’s depiction of Wanda here is regal yet strained, while his Agatha is terrifyingly focused. The facial expressions during the “astral heart” sequence really capture the agony and the betrayal. However, Redmond’s palette is the secret sauce. Wanda’s signature chaos-red hues and the piercing, cold magics of the Vishanti make every spell pop off the page. The scenes in the Sanctum Sanctorum feel lived-in but eerie too, with the protective magic of the house appearing both vivid and dangerously flammable. And finally, VC’s Joe Sabino sound effects add almost noisy energy to the magical skirmishes that help ground the high-concept sorcery.
Wong’s Dilemma: Loyalty vs. Tradition
One of the most interesting subplots involves Wong. He’s usually the steadfast advisor, but here he’s caught in a genuine moral bind. He and Stephen Strange have doubted the Vishanti before, but Wanda’s decision to bypass the gods entirely puts him in a tough spot. If he aids her, he might save her life but doom her tenure by proving she can’t hold the title alone. It’s a nuanced take on the character that I appreciate, as it elevates him beyond just being the assistant.
Criticism: Is It Moving Too Fast?
If there’s a critique to be made, it’s that the pacing is breakneck. We go from a cosmic confrontation to Wanda’s psyche, and then suddenly she’s seeking counsel from Chthon, at the Edge of Creation. There’s a lot of energy going on here, and it can be a bit dizzying to take in. For newer readers, the lore-heavy references like the “Uroath” or the “Skull of Necrom” might require a quick trip to a wiki page to fully grasp the gravity of the situation or what they’re even talking about.
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The Verdict
Ultimately, Sorcerer Supreme #2 is a fantastic continuation of Wanda’s journey. It’s a story about the cost of power and the messy reality of breaking from tradition. If you like your superhero comics with a heavy dose of occult family drama and stunning visuals, this is a must-read. The “Scarlet Witch Trials” are coming, and if this issue is any indication, no one is safe.
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‘Sorcerer Supreme’ #2 | Wanda Maximoff vs. Agatha Harkness
Sorcerer Supreme #2 is a fantastic continuation of Wanda’s journey. It’s a story about the cost of power and the messy reality of breaking from tradition. If you like your superhero comics with a heavy dose of occult family drama and stunning visuals, this is a must-read. The “Scarlet Witch Trials” are coming, and if this issue is any indication, no one is safe.
