Warning: contains spoilers X-Men #6!!
Since the fall of Krakoa, the X-Men have tried to lead the mutants to the next chapter, but there is no clear path to follow or a single answer to finding it. The mutant leaders diverge in their vision for the future as new challenges and dangers arise, but Magneto is intervening to clarify something. All mutants are welcome in the X-Men, whether they are born with the X Gene or created.
X-Men #6, by Jed MacKay, Netho Diaz, Marte Gracia and Clayton Cowles, officially confirms that new mutants are being created through a method to “artificially encourage the activation of the X Gene.” In other words, Cassandra Nova and her mysterious 3K group can transform adult homo sapiens into mutants. This completely upends the status quo, leaving the X-Men figuring out how to deal with their existence.
Fortunately for Cassandra Nova’s creations, Max doesn’t mince words. Just as Magneto is a mutant, they are mutants, and the X-Men will welcome them into their ranks with respect and open arms.
Magneto declares that the X-Men will welcome any mutant born or created
Humans forcibly turned into mutants are still your people
Being born with the X Gene is the quintessential element that differentiates mutants from homo sapiens, leading Xorn to offer Nova’s creations alternatives to the designation “homo superior.” Max’s reaction is quick and decisive: they are all mutants. There will be no discrimination or differentiation between those who were born or raised. New mutants not only need the same help as those born with the X gene, but they will also face the same discrimination in human society. Magneto has always been one of the fiercest defenders of mutantkind, and he extends that to his new brothers without hesitation, demanding that the X-Men do the same.
In addition to Max’s personal drive, new mutants pose some possible dangers that the X-Men could contain. Newly manifested powers are often unstable, and other mutants will suffer harm or loss of life. Additionally, the X-Men know very little about the forced mutation process or how Nova and her group benefit from it, which means they could have an as-yet-unknown way to use these new mutants to harm them. Forcing these adult mutants to figure things out on their own could result in untold harm, and there’s no safer place for them to be than among the X-Men.
Magneto’s announcement gives the X-Men a chance to return to their original purpose
Although the X-Men have only discovered a few Nova mutants, their existence cannot go unnoticed. Gene X manifestation is notoriously difficult to deal with, as no one knows how to control its gifts. They need support, and the X-Men have historically provided that and more. Although mutants like Rogue have chosen a new approach and separated themselves from the current team, their reputation alone keeps them at the center of mutant life. Cyclops and his current team are trying to rebuild some of what the mutants lost, and Magneto’s decision is an important part of the process.
Ever since Xavier established the first X-Men, they’ve had a dual purpose for mutants. They acted as protectors and soldiers, but there was always a strong “found family” element as well. By welcoming these mutants created as equals, they are one step closer to creating that feeling of “home” again. There’s been a sense of futility and hopelessness hanging over the X-Men since Krakoa, but turning a tragedy into kindness for the mutants who desperately need it could change that. Magneto declaration that all mutants, created or born, are welcome among the X-Men sets a new tone for the future of the team.
X-Men #6 is now available from Marvel Comics.