Wolverine and Elektra are two of Marvel Comics’ most iconic and deadly characters, each with their own rich histories and complex personalities. While they are not married in the mainstream Marvel universe (Earth-616), their paths have crossed in various storylines, leading to intriguing and intense interactions. In this alternate Marvel universe, their relationship goes beyond mere alliances, culminating in a marriage that brings together two formidable warriors.
This miniseries stands out due to Amano’s ethereal paintings that dominate the pages, portraying Elektra as lithe and deadly, while Wolverine is depicted with a stocky frame and wild hair. Rucka’s prose provides deep insights into their characters, especially during their battles. Elektra’s willingness to reconsider her mission after getting to know her target reveals a human heart beneath her hardened exterior.
The Introduction of Their Daughter, Rina
Wolverine and Elektra’s daughter, Rina, first appeared in “J2 #5” by Tom DeFalco and Ron Lim. Initially attempting to live a normal life, she eventually uses her mutant powers to save her classmates and adopts the superhero codename Wild Thing. Wild Thing inherits her father’s superhuman senses and healing factor, along with her mother’s martial arts mastery. She also possesses the unique ability to create psychic claws that can wound opponents both mentally and physically.
Rina hails from Earth-982, home to other young heroes like Mayday Parker, better known as Spider-Girl. The two have crossed paths, notably in the “Last Hero Standing” miniseries where they, along with other young heroes, strive to save their parents from Loki’s wrath. Rina also has a fierce rivalry with Sabreclaw, Logan’s daughter from another relationship, mirroring the longstanding feud between Wolverine and Sabretooth.
Elektra’s Influence on Wolverine’s Humanity
Elektra has played a pivotal role in pulling Wolverine back from the brink of losing his humanity on two significant occasions. The first instance occurred after Wolverine had the Adamantium ripped from his skeleton by Magneto. Healing but reverting to a feral state without the Adamantium, Logan encounters Elektra in “Wolverine #103” by Larry Hama and Adam Kubert. Elektra challenges him, revealing he can still control his feral urges. In a heartwarming moment, Logan, staring at the moon, wistfully says, “I used to be a man,” to which Elektra responds, “You still are, Logan.”
The ‘Enemy of the State’ Storyline
Another crucial moment in their relationship is found in the “Wolverine: Enemy of the State” storyline by Mark Millar and John Romita Jr. Here, Wolverine is kidnapped and brainwashed by Hydra, becoming their personal assassin. Tasked with killing nearly every superhero in the Marvel Universe, including Daredevil and the Fantastic Four, Wolverine’s rampage is eventually halted by Elektra, who is hired by S.H.I.E.L.D and Nick Fury.
The fight against Wolverine is personal for Elektra, as Hydra has teamed up with the Hand, the death cult that resurrected her and trained her as an assassin. When Wolverine is freed from his brainwashing, he and Elektra join forces to take down Hydra. Subtle dialogue hints at a mutual attraction between them, though their complex history is far from romantic.
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