X-Factor #11

X-Factor #11
Another EXCELLENT issue, one that contributes to our overall understanding of mutants. As far as we've seen, mutants only begin to express their powers during puberty or times of great stress. Why did we never think about the fact that we knew that Jamie split when the doctor slapped his newborn bottom? And never once did anyone question why his mutancy displayed itself so early? Well, PAD did, and here, he adds to the mythology of homo-superior: mutants are an evolution of an earlier type of mutation which displayed itself far earlier, and was nearly always rewarded with death. So the mutant gene laid dormant until puberty, when its host would be in more of a position to control his abilities, or to defend himself.
It's a workable theory...the only mutants to survive in bygone times would have been the ones whose mutancy didn't display itself until adolescence. All those who exhibited mutant abilities earlier would have been killed, thus ending the evolutionary arm. However, even nowadays, there are people born with prehensile tails, webbed digits, and other atavistic traits - not all of which are the fault of the mother. Sometimes, it's just genetics. Our human bodies are such that they recognize most non-viable mutations, and the fetuses who display such mutations are aborted or stillborn. So, yes, it's a very scientifically sound theory. And in an age where it is not considered okay to leave your infant on a pile of manure on Christmas Eve to be replaced with a so-called "normal" child, it's quite believable that the occasional "atavistic" mutations would be able to survive. Hence, Jamie.
We also learn here that Tryp has many powers. Some which we have already seen are mesmerism, and immortality. He implies that he has weather-control capabilities as well. Apparently he is a multiplicant too.
And that's just the first four pages!
Then the team quickly figures out that Guido's switched his allegiances, apparently through a hypnotic suggestion, and we learn that when Quicksilver applies the Terragen Mists to an already-powered mutant, a sort of biofeedback ensues which knocks said mutant out. "Interesting development, isn't it?" he says. If PAD didn't already win quote of the week himself, this would do it!
In order to get into Singularity without tripping Tryp's (get it?) alarms, Madrox calls in a bomb threat to the FBI, Homeland Security, the fire department, and the police. They forcibly evacuate the building, leaving Terry and Julio free to walk in dressed in bomb suits. It's a brilliant plan. Jamie gives himself too little credit for being able to make decisions.
An EXCELLENT issue of an EXCELLENT title. Already one of my favorite monthly books.