This issue is the first one that I would say feels "normal." Whereas the first eight issues of this series and the first three issues of "Uncanny X-Men" have portrayed a quick succession of events, this one shows us the X-Men trying to draw a line under those experiences and start fresh, from the new status quo.
(In writing that paragraph, it makes you realize that I should probably re-read those 11 issues just to make sure that I've really got a grip on all the nuances and sequences.)
Bendis wisely uses this issue to return us to the X-Men's earliest days, showing the original X-Men looking nothing like a cohesive team. This time, it's Kitty's responsibility to mold them into one and Bendis does a great job having Kitty speak to each of their failings. Bendis has always been awful at characterization, having characters do whatever he needs them to do to advance a plot, even if it's something that they'd likely never do. But, he continues to avoid those pitfalls in this series. Jean struggles not to use her telepathy irresponsibly, Beast rebuffs Kitty's attempt at criticism (in part because he already knows what the criticism will be and has likely addressed it in his head), Bobby has failed to take the exercise seriously, Scott is unable to command respect, and Warren places himself above the entire fray as he questions why he's still there. Bendis really gets them, both the flawed people that they were at the beginning but also the new characterizations appropriate for their changed circumstances. If Jean's darker use of her powers isn't enough of a reminder of those changes, Bobby calling Kitty "Professor" certainly is.
Outside the core group, Bendis also does a great job with Mystique. In both appearances so far, she uses not just her mutant powers but her ability to project authority to get what she wants. She's a powerful character, one that makes your realize why Kitty freaks out so much when Jean reveals that Scott met her. I love the idea that she's decided to forget the whole mutant thing and try to make some cash. I can't wait to see what she has up her sleeve.
Seriously, this series is starting to remind me of the great mid-200s run on this title and I can't think of a higher compliment.
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