In UXM 251, Psylocke makes a controversial leadership decision that radically alters X-Men continuity, puts an end to the outback era, and is deeply reflective of her character as both a leader and as an individual. 1/7 #XMen @LetsTalkBetsy

After a successful rescue of Lorna Dane in her first and only mission as field leader (undefeated!), Psylocke finds herself faced with the knowledge that the X-Men are walking into a Reaver ambush, thanks to her precognitive abilities (abilities that writers often forget). 2/7

In an earlier vision, Gateway shows us her that the Siege Perilous is the only way to escape a violent fate. Rather than consulting or informing the team, Psylocke simply manipulates them through the Siege Perilous a portal to new lives, even as they express hesitation. 3/7

Silvestri’s illustration positions Psylocke as the portal itself – going through it as going to/through her - adding to the surreal atmosphere of anxiety and the sense of Betsy’s control over the moment and its events. 4/7

Alex, however, resists, questioning the logic, at which point we see Psylocke’s butterfly flare activate, clearly indicating that she is manipulating him telepathically (thus crossing a big moral boundary throughout Claremont’s run). 5/7

For good measure, she kisses Havok (Psylocke’s only on-panel kiss throughout all of the Claremont Run) and sends him on his way before hanging around herself just long enough to taunt her enemies. 6/7

In all of this, Psylocke shows her pragmatism, her will to act unilaterally, and the extent to which she’ll go beyond the ethics of other leaders of the X-Men. She gets the job done, but Claremont highlights her suspicious methods here, creating key character distinctions. 7/7

Thus concludes my weird 3 day Psylocke Twitter Triptych. Hope it was fun! She’s an awesome character with a ton of depth.