Before I get this under way, I would just like to clear something up. The article that was recently posted on this site that described this event for the first time had an image in it. In the image we saw a picture of the X-Men standing together during happier times. The picture was torn down the middle, leaving Wolverine and a few X-Men on one side, and Cyclops and some other X-Men on the other half. There was a lot of confusion, so let me just say this...the different halves of the picture did not represent the rosters of the teams post-Schism. I repeat, these were NOT...ACCURATE...ROSTERS. I know that sparked some heat between some people, so I just wanted to clear that up.
Now, I am an avid reader of X-Men and have been since I was a little Burglar of Corndogs. I am 29 years old, the X-Men are what introduced me to comics as soon as I was able to read, and I still read everything X-related to this day. I will be picking my choices for both Cyclops and Wolverine's teams. I am basing these choices on past relationships between both Cyclops and Wolverine, and their respected character. I will also be looking at more recent turn of events that would help sway a character to one side or the other, as well as the dramatic effect it would have on the overall story and relationships between characters. Again, these are just my personal picks of who I would like to see go where, and why. Hope you enjoy!
Uncanny X-Men (Team Cyclops): Kieron Gillen is writing this title. In a recent interview Gillen stated that Cyke's team would be the premier mutant team that will have the most impact on the public in the Marvel U. He also stated that his Uncanny team could possibly be the most powerful team of X-Men ever united.
1. Cyclops: This is a no brainer.
2. Iceman: With the potential of Iceman's powers never fully being realized, I think this would be a great point to start highlighting the limits, or lack there of, of his powers. Iceman isn't just the kid of the team anymore. He is, quite honestly, one of the most experienced X-Men there is, and he has been shown to be a good face for the public eyes. He would make a great addition to team Cyclops.
3. Kitty Pryde: Kitty has been involved in politics, which would help garner support from the public. She may not have a very threatening power, but to dismiss it as useless is a huge mistake. She would be perfect, if for no other reason than to help gain support from the general public in the MU.
4. Colossus: The guy once gave his life to cure the Legacy Virus and save the world. You can't find a better candidate for a team that will be wanting "good natured" characters in the spotlight. Also, lets not kid ourselves, he would follow Kitty to the ends of the earth.
5. Jean Grey: With the proclamation that Schism would end friendships and loves, I think this would be the perfect time to break up Scott and Emma. There have been hints here and there about the return of the Phoenix, and what better time than now? With Scott and Emma broken up because of different views during Schism (if that even happens) this would be a perfect time to revive Jean and let her and Cyke try to work things out. Jean was always a major part of Cyke and she may be the only one to remind him of the person he once was, and possibly put an end to his recent ass-holery.
6. Storm: What team that is pining for public approval wouldn't want the Queen of Wakanda on its roster? Storm really needs no reason to be here. She's insanely powerful, and again...THE QUEEN OF WAKANDA!. 'Nuff Said.
7. Angel/Archangel: Assuming Warren comes out of this Dark Angel storyline in Uncanny X-Force in one piece, he would be yet another good addition to Cyke's team. He's a billionaire playboy that is already in good standing with the public. He has the experience to hang with the rest of the team, and with the power to switch between both feather wings and his metal wings, he is no slouch.
8. Namor: Mostly for the same reason as Storm, who wouldn't want royalty on a team trying to win the public? Just as importantly, Namor is a powerhouse. His super strength, flight, and ties to Atlantis are nothing but good for Team Cyclops!
So these are my picks for Team Cyclops. I hope you enjoyed reading this as much as I enjoyed writing it. Be on the lookout for Part 2: Team Wolverine! It should be up either later today or tomorrow. :)
~CDB