Dark Horizon (Part 1) sets the stage for one of the most intense and pivotal arcs in the series. The episode introduces Apocalypse, an ancient and immensely powerful mutant with a vision of reshaping the world in his image. As the X-Men and their allies confront the looming threat, they must grapple with the potential consequences of Apocalypse’s return and the impact it will have on the world. This episode expertly combines action, suspense, and character development, creating a captivating narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

The plot centres around the efforts to stop Apocalypse from being resurrected. Mesmero, under the control of Apocalypse, manipulates events to bring his master back to life. The X-Men, along with Magneto and his Acolytes, must unite to prevent this catastrophic event. Their mission takes them to various locations, each filled with ancient traps and challenges that test their abilities and resolve. As the story unfolds, the tension builds, highlighting the urgency and high stakes involved in stopping Apocalypse. This collaborative effort between former enemies underscores the theme of unity in the face of a common threat.

One of the central themes of Dark Horizon (Part 1) is the threat of Apocalypse and the sheer magnitude of his power. Apocalypse’s presence casts a long shadow over the episode, instilling a sense of dread and anticipation. His philosophy of survival of the fittest challenges the X-Men’s ideals of coexistence and protection of the weak. The episode delves into the historical significance of Apocalypse, portraying him as a figure who has influenced human history for millennia. This exploration of Apocalypse’s character adds depth to the narrative, making his impending return all the more formidable…

It’s night time at the Institute, and everyone should be asleep. However, someone is roaming the corridors and enters the professor’s room, causing a slight moan. The intruder then enters Jean‘s room, followed by Scott‘s room, where Kitty is awoken by another moan. She phases through the wall and doesn’t realize it’s Rogue who enters Scott’s room. Rogue absorbs Scott’s powers and then Kitty’s, leaving them both unconscious.

The next morning, Kitty wakes up with a headache and realizes she’s overslept. She phases into Kurt‘s room, and they rush to get ready for school. Rogue, feeling unwell, skips breakfast. At school, Rogue hesitates and steps into a black limo. Meanwhile, Scott and Jean discuss their last day at Bayville High, and Principal Kelly warns them not to disturb the graduation.

Rogue arrives at the Brotherhood‘s house and takes down Wanda, Lance, Fred, and Toad, absorbing their powers. Pietro tries to escape but is caught by Rogue’s telekinesis. Mystique is waiting for Rogue outside. Later, Rogue and Mystique arrive at a warehouse where Rogue takes down Colossus, Sabretooth, Pyro, and Gambit. Magneto arrives and is also taken down by Rogue.

The next day, graduation begins, but chaos ensues when Magneto, the Acolytes, and the Brotherhood arrive. Rogue, under Mesmero‘s control, attacks the mutants and flies off. Xavier orders Logan to follow Rogue, and Magneto sends Sabretooth and Gambit to help. They locate a limousine near the airport and suspect Mesmero and Rogue were there. Meanwhile, Xavier and Magneto use Cerebro to find the Tomb of Apocalypse.

The X-Jet and Magneto’s spheres arrive at the Great Sphinx. Kitty phases into an underground room and activates a lever, revealing a stairway. The team descends, but they are ambushed by moving statues, realising they’ve walked into a trap. The torches begin to die down…

Ω Kitty sleeps with a stuffed dragon, a clear reference to Lockheed the dragon.

Rogue and Wanda have a rather volatile relationship in the comics. In fact, at one point whilst serving on the same team of Uncanny Avengers, Rogue became so enraged at her teammate, she killed her! Wanda got better, as usual.

Rogue is seriously powerful. In this episode, she takes out the entire cast. As before, whilst under Mesmero’s influence, she has complete control over her powers and the abilities she has absorbed. Not coincidentally, Rogue kisses Gambit to absorb his powers.

Jean’s parents, John and Elaine, and her sister Sara attend the graduation ceremony.

As with other iterations, Apocalypse has a temple in Egypt, specifically in Giza. It is also protected by followers, as in X-Men: Apocalypse and X-Men.

X-23 | Dark Horizon (Part 2)