Warning: contains spoilers for X-Men #9. Marvel Comics has been building anticipation around the character known as “Inmate X”for several months. While many fans speculated that this mutant captive would be the former X-Men leader Charles Xavier, X-Men #9 has officially dispelled that theory. This revelation has opened the door to new fan theories regarding the identity of this enigmatic mutant, who is poised to play a significant role in upcoming X-Men narratives.
The plot thickens in X-Men #9 when Xavier uses his psychic abilities to control Psylocke, convincing her and Nightcrawler to aid in his escape from Graymalkin Prison. It is during this tense moment that Xavier clarifies, “I am not Inmate X.” This unexpected twist leaves readers wondering: Who, then, is Inmate X, and what makes them so crucial?
Initial Assumptions About Inmate X
It was reasonable for fans to assume that Inmate X was Charles Xavier, especially given the narrative clues provided by Marvel, which prominently featured him as a key figure in Graymalkin Prison. Xavier has committed acts that could warrant imprisonment, and despite the revelation that he is not responsible for the infamous “massacre”on the Space Force Frigate Agnew, public perception still labels him as the “Butcher of Krakoa.”While Xavier initially accepted his confinement to protect mutantkind, he has now decided to break free, leading into a new narrative arc titled X-Manhunt.
Alternate Candidates for Inmate X
The identity of Inmate X remains a captivating mystery, sparking speculation among fans about who could potentially fill this role. Leading contenders include Legion, Nate Grey, Vulcan, and Rasputin IV. Notably, Rasputin and Legion emerge as strong candidates due to their considerable power and popularity within the X-Men universe, especially following their absence since the conclusion of the “Fall of X”storyline.
An additional theory points to the Omega-level mutant Nate Grey, who has also been missing since the Age of X-Man event. However, since Dr. Corina Ellis mentions conversations with Inmate X regarding the fall of Krakoa — a context Nate was not part of — this may disqualify him from being Inmate X. On the other hand, the third Summers brother, Vulcan, remains a dangerous yet powerful figure, absent since his role in the Genesis War.
Inmate X’s Potential Impact on the X-Men’s Future
Could Inmate X Determine the Fate of Mutantkind?
Currently, Dr. Corina Ellis has managed to keep Inmate X under control, but it is likely that this mutant will escape in the near future. The identity of Inmate X could also introduce a brand-new mutant character to the universe. No matter who is ultimately revealed, their emergence and subsequent actions may significantly influence the future trajectory of mutantkind. Will this character act as a friend to the X-Men, or will they become a foe, exacerbating human fears about mutants?
Ultimately, the revelation of Inmate X promises to have a monumental impact on both the X-Men and the broader mutant community. Whether as an ally or antagonist, this character is certain to leave a lasting impression in the rich tapestry of Marvel’s mutant narratives.
X-Men #9 is now available in comic book stores.
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