Scott Summers (Cyclops) and Jean Grey prepare for a seemingly ordinary geology club excursion. However, Mystique, the shape-shifting mastermind, has other plans. She replaces Jean with Rogue, hoping to create further distance between Rogue and the X-Men. But Rogue isn’t easily fooled.

Rogue sees through Mystique’s ruse and realizes her true intentions. Instead of falling into Mystique’s trap, Rogue makes a bold decision—she permanently defects from Mystique’s side and joins the X-Men. This pivotal moment marks the beginning of Rogue’s journey as a valued member of the team.

Mystique’s manipulation runs deep. By replacing Jean with Rogue, she aims to sow discord and weaken the X-Men. But Rogue’s loyalty lies elsewhere, and she chooses to stand with her newfound allies. Her decision not only changes her fate but also alters the dynamics within the X-Men.

Turn of the Rogue showcases themes of identity, loyalty, and the power of choice. As Rogue embraces her new path, we glimpse the intricate threads that connect mutants in a world where allegiances are constantly tested. From this episode onward, Rogue’s journey unfolds, revealing the complexities of her character and the resilience of the X-Men.

One night, shadows cloak a secret base. A guard patrols, unaware of the phasing Kitty Pryde behind her. Kitty sprays the guard unconscious, while Storm waits for confirmation that the north section is clear. Meanwhile, Evan, using his spikes as grips, watches another guard below. He stops the “guard” from calling for backup, ensuring the south area is safe. Scott Summers, ever the leader, approves the rescue mission.

Inside, Kurt Wagner teleports with Scott. On the roof, Jean Grey’s telekinesis prevents them from falling into laser wires. Scott’s optic blasts fail to free them from chains, but Kurt mocks his efforts. Jean loses focus, dropping Scott and Kurt. Rogue, unexpectedly present, absorbs Scott’s powers. Shocked, Scott demands the simulation end.

Xavier enters, explaining that Rogue’s surprise element was intentional. The students prepare for school, but their class trip takes an unexpected turn. Mr. Ridetski’s gear list includes spiked boots and a compass – no Game Toys allowed. Jean wonders if Rogue’s presence caused Scott’s distraction during training. Principal Darkhölme, lurking in the shadows, overhears Jean’s words.

At school, Rogue trains in the gym. Mystique, disguised as Principal Darkhölme, reveals Scott’s true feelings about Rogue. Upset, Rogue questions why she’s the enemy in training. Mystique encourages her to embrace the enlightening experience. Outside, the blizzard disrupts the class trip. Rogue suggests snowmobiles to reach the caves safely.

Rogue races Scott, their rivalry escalating. Scott’s anger grows when he learns Rogue replaced Jean on the trip. Meanwhile, Erik Lehnsherr confronts Xavier, questioning trust and truth. At the caves, Rogue and Scott’s confrontation with Mystique leads to danger. Rogue absorbs Mystique’s memories, discovering her manipulations. Scott falls off a cliff, and Rogue saves him.

The X-Men rescue them, but Mystique escapes. Scott and Rogue bond during the crisis. Back at the Institute, Xavier admits hiding secrets from the students. Jean encourages trust, and Rogue joins the X-Men.

Rogue officially joined the X-Men in Uncanny X-Men #171 after fleeing Mystique and having absorbed the memories and powers of Carol Danvers’ Ms. Marvel. The team refused her entry, but Xavier overruled the team, stating that he would help Rogue, whether they remained or not.

Rogue absorbs Mystique’s powers and memories in this episode, just as she did in the X-Men episode A Rogue’s Tale, which has a similar theme and recalls much of Rogue’s past. She’ll discover more about Mystique and her relationship with Nightcrawler in later episodes, altering her history with both of them.

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