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VisionQuest just rewrote Paladin’s entire backstory in one conversation. Episode 3 connects the bounty hunter to three major Marvel heroes and a familiar villainous organization through a series of clever reveals.
Paladin fought with the Punisher and more, is friends with Xialing’s 10 Rings
VisionQuest episode 3, titled “Reboot,” pulls back the curtain on Paladin’s past. The episode reveals the bounty hunter has crossed paths with three major Marvel characters. It also sheds light on his surprising origin and his ties to Xialing’s Ten Rings syndicate.
In a conversation with his Handler, Paladin references a violent encounter in Brooklyn. He describes it as a “punishing disagreement with an old friend.” The Handler also mentions pulling shrapnel from an IED out of his gut. This exchange confirms Paladin previously fought Frank Castle, the Punisher, in Brooklyn.
The Handler then brings up bite marks from a creature between man and wolf. Paladin calls the attacker “a perfectly reasonable fella by day.” This points directly to Jack Russell, also known as Werewolf by Night. The third reference involves a concussion from a steel fiber billy club. Paladin responds with the line about getting out of Hell’s Kitchen. That confirms a past clash with Matt Murdock, Daredevil.
The episode also establishes that the Ten Rings syndicate provided Paladin with his Adamantium vest. This vest saved his life during his battle against Vision. Xialing’s organization likely supplied him with Adamantium bullets as well. His connection to the Ten Rings suggests he has worked for or alongside them before.
Meanwhile, the episode delivers a twist about Paladin’s true identity. He is not a Paladin by blood or birthright. Instead, he was adopted and raised by a member of the Paladin order. The original Paladin trained him to eventually take on the mantle. This revelation adds new layers to the character’s motivations and loyalties. His contract termination in this episode could now push his story in an unexpected direction.
Four episodes of VisionQuest are now streaming on Disney+.