The new backstory for Monica Rambeau — as per Tamati — is as follows:
“The world of light rises, above a world left behind.”
– ‘Shining Over There’
Monica ‘Marama’ Rambeau was born in New Orleans, Louisiana to an American father and Maori mother.
She grew up with her American family. She felt no close connection with her Maori family. Her darker skin and inability to speak Maori made her stand out and apart from her people.
There was a perception within Maori culture that being fair-skinned equaled beauty. She was aware of this as a child, but only as an adult was she able to name it as ‘colourism.’
She sadly realised Maori communities weren’t immune from colonised intra-cultural ideas of beauty.
Her mother named her Monica ‘Marama’ (Mah-rah-mah). The name has many meanings, but she chose it, as it could mean ‘bright light.’ She would sing a song to her to remind her that she is the ‘bright light of the world.’ Monica would hear her mother’s voice echo in her mind in tough times.
Following in the footsteps of her father, she enlisted in the Navy. She would rise to the rank of lieutenant in the US Navy and served as the ship’s captain. The US Government had been experimenting on weaponizing extra-dimensional energy. She captained the naval ship that hosted a mobile research facility. Marama was accidentally exposed to this energy after the containment facilities failed. As a result, she gained abilities that enabled her to convert her body to various forms of energy and light. In addition, she is also able to absorb, store, and use energy.
She came to the attention of the Avengers, eventually becoming a member. Marama used this time to support the team and master her new powers. She formed a close friendship with Carol Danvers, Captain Marvel. Over time, Carol imprinted a powerful energy signature on her. So immense was this signature that it remained a part of her for many years.
The Avengers, via Tony Stark, were made aware of the multi-universal threat of Kang The Conqueror. In preparation for this, Thor, Storm, and Rogue were brought in to strengthen the ranks.
Similar to her friendship with Captain Marvel, Marama became close with Rogue. Their connection was through their shared experiences of disconnection from their people.
In a display of her powers, Rogue touched her and siphoned memories, power of flight, durability and strength. The difference this time was that the powers stayed with Rogue. She realised she had absorbed the imprinted powers of Captain Marvel.
Monica asked what else she absorbed. Rogue turned and said, “I absorbed a memory. Marama, whatever you do, remember that you’re the ‘bright light of the world.’”
MONICA ‘MARAMA’ RAMBEAU
The Polynesian delegation has also provided a fancast — Hawaiian actress Gina Bowes.
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Racial Draft 