Though not frequently discussed, the Storm/Cyclops relationship is pivotal for advancing Storm to the forefront of the run, a role she would never really relinquish. Cyclops validates Storm’s leadership abilities, pushing the reader to accept a major status shift. #xmen 1/6

The relationship is based on mutual respect, competition and a shared understanding of the unique burden of leading the X-Men. Cyclops is the holdover from the original X-Men, and was established at this point as a gifted leader who had earned his position. 2/6

As Marvel moved to an international team (aiming to hit an international market) Cyclops was the holdover - a white, male, American, familiar character who establishes continuity with the previous series. He remained the leader, was featured very prominently on covers… 3/6

…and has the most narrative captions (as our data found) in early issues. His endorsement of Storm’s leadership signals the series' movement away from the past, and into a more diverse and progressive future. 4/6

This is taken to a logical extreme in UXM #201 when a de-powered Storm defeats Cyclops in single combat for leadership of the X-Men. Through this issue, the torch is most clearly and most inarguably passed, and Claremont's team is fully detached from the silver age. 5/6

In later years, and on different teams, Storm and Cyclops would continue to challenge each other, question each other’s choices, and generally hold each other accountable in a “who will watch the watchmen?” kind of way, to their benefit and that of their respective teams. 6/6