Anticipation reached a fever pitch when the teaser for Season 2 of “Daredevil: Born Again” dropped, primarily due to the much-awaited return of Jessica Jones, portrayed by Krysten Ritter. Episode 6, titled “Requiem,” finally quenched viewers’ thirst by revealing that Jessica has been leading a secluded life with her daughter, Danielle Cage. Yes, at some point, Jessica and Luke Cage, played by Mike Colter, became parents, and their daughter Dani holds more significance than many might realize. Though just a child in “Born Again,” Marvel comic aficionados know she has a remarkable destiny ahead.

Dani first appeared in the 2006 comic “The Pulse” #13 as the newborn of Jessica and Luke. Her character underwent a dramatic evolution in 2015’s “Avengers: Ultron Forever” #1, where she emerged as the newest Captain America. In this storyline, Dani is a future version of Cap who, alongside other Avengers from various timelines, is whisked away by Doctor Doom to confront All-Father Ultron, a tyrant dominating humanity. However, as with anything involving Doom, his motives might extend beyond merely liberating humankind.

While the idea of Dani Cage joining the Avengers seems far-fetched, especially given the plethora of other deserving MCU characters yet to earn that title, a role in the Young Avengers appears equally unlikely. With Marvel hesitating on developing that team, Dani may never don Cap’s iconic shield in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. However, her introduction confirms that Luke Cage remains a presence somewhere in this universe. But where exactly?

The series “Thunderbolts” has already showcased how the government employs powered individuals for clandestine operations. The proposition must have been tempting enough for Luke to leave Jessica and Dani. Rumors and leaked photos from the set of “Daredevil: Born Again” Season 3 hint at the return of Luke Cage and Iron Fist, played by Finn Jones. Fans are hopeful to catch a glimpse of Luke even before that, potentially in a surprise appearance in the Season 2 finale.

Luke doesn’t have a physical presence in “Requiem,” but he is alluded to. After the attack at her house, Jessica meets up with Daredevil (Charlie Cox) and informs him how she once got a call from a sketchy character from something called the “Agency.” Apparently, he was interested in people with special powers to work on behalf of the government, and while she wasn’t interested, someone she knew took the job. Given Daredevil’s surprised reaction, it’s safe to assume that Jessica’s partner, Luke, accepted the offer. 

“Thunderbolts*” revealed how the government was employing superpowered individuals to carry out black ops missions. The deal must have been good enough for Luke to leave Jessica to raise their daughter on her own. Some leaked set photos from the production of “Daredevil: Born Again” Season 3 seemingly confirm that Luke Cage and Iron Fist (Finn Jones) will be back in the saddle for that storyline. Hopefully, we get to see Luke sooner than that, even if it’s a small appearance in the Season 2 finale.