Warning: SPOILERS for House of X #6
The X-Men have recruited dozens of mutants and formed as many superteams over the years, typically with their own purpose, mission, or price to pay to achieve victory. But fans know there is only one true, born leader of the X-Men... and it's finally time for Cyclops to get the recognition, role, and authority that he truly deserves.
Those reading Marvel's current X-Men relaunch in the twin series House of X and Powers of X won't need a reminder of Scott Summers's leadership credentials, since the sacrifice of him and his team officially gave Marvel a future. When Charles Xavier told Cyclops that his mission to destroy mankind's Sentinel program was almost guaranteed to cost the lives of the X-Men sent to do it, his response was clear: "Does it need doing?... Then it will be done." Knowing it could cost him his life, Cyclops didn't hesitate--and he died a hero's death. But now that those dead X-Men have returned to life, it's time for Cyclops to get a new promotion, to a more powerful role than any he's had before.
By saving the future, Scott Summers, Logan, Jean, and the rest of the sacrificed team ensured that the fledgling mutant nation Krakoa would have a chance. Not just to be a safe space for mutants, but the start of an entire nation. Now that the leaders--Xavier, Magneto, and Apocalypse--have chosen the overall Quiet Council of twelve mutants to govern the first attempt at a standalone mutant society. But on an island filled with powerful mutants, soldiers, killers, and warriors, a select few are chosen to defend (or attack?) at the will of this new mutant leadership. The carefully selected team of soldiers is known as the 'Great Captains': Bishop, Magik, Gorgon, and Cyclops.
But to emphasize the unique role held by Scott Summers, Cyclops is also designated the 'Captain Commander,' operating as a "first among equals" and the leader of this elite unit. All four have demonstrated knowledge of attacks, warfare, and truly lethal use of their powers, but while their ranks may be shared, it is Scott Summers alone who can issue orders. That distinction should go without saying, even surrounded by strong leaders fit for the job. As a brilliant tactical thinker, a strategist, an intelligent officer, and a fearless warrior, this appointment will be seen as long overdue for many of his fans.
It's not yet known just what kinds of threats or "state-related incursions" Cyclops will be leading his Great Captains into danger to achieve, but the new line of X-Men teams and comics may shed some light on how those missions for Krakoa will unfold. As the anchor of the new flagship X-Men team and book, Cyclops's role as Captain Commander may precede the formation of his team (which would also explain why he's turned to so many members of the Summers family). This could prove a historic appointment for the future of the franchise, so check out the full credits for the issue below:
- HOUSE OF X #6 (of 6)
- Written by: Jonathan Hickman
- Art by: Pepe Larraz, Marte Gracia
- Cover by: Pepe Larraz, Marte Gracia
- THE INEVITABLE FUTURE. The revolutionary tale of Mutantkind’s rise comes to a conclusion that will lay the groundwork of the X-Men’s stories for years to come! Superstar writer Jonathan Hickman (AVENGERS, FANTASTIC FOUR, SECRET WARS) and Marvel Young Gun artist Pepe Larraz (EXTERMINATION, AVENGERS) wrap the series that changes everything!
House of X #6 is available now from your local comic book shop, or direct from Marvel Comics.