Did X-Men '97 just introduce a major character in a really sneaky way?

Let's talk about Valerie Cooper from Marvel Studio's newest gem, X-Men '97 for a hot minute, shall we? Oh, and hold onto your hats, because it's a wild one.

So, you know Valerie Cooper, right? Bespectacled, government-tied, seemingly a friend of Charles Xavier's, she was introduced in the first two episodes of X-Men '97 as this old buddy of Xavier's working for the United Nations. But here's where I flip the script: What if I told you that Valerie Cooper, the UN operative and old friend, is actually Mystique in one of her classic, twisty disguises?

Let me lay down the foundation: Valerie Cooper's history in the comics is as rich and complex as a triple-layer chocolate cake. She's been a friend, a foe, and sometimes a bit of both to the mutant community. From leading government-sponsored mutant teams like Freedom Force and X-Factor to her rollercoaster relationship with mutants post-M-Day, she's done it all. But what if, in X-Men '97, the Valerie Cooper we're seeing is not the Val we know all the time but also Mystique, the shapeshifting master of deception, wearing Cooper's face?

First, consider Mystique's motive. As someone who's been both against and with the mutants (depending on the day of the week), what better cover than to masquerade as a government official? Especially one with as much sway and mutant connection as Valerie Cooper. It's the perfect mask for orchestrating events from behind the scenes, nudging chess pieces across the board to play out a scenario that benefits her or her mutant brethren (or both).

Second, let's talk about opportunity. Mystique, with her unique abilities, has impersonated everyone from senators to security guards. Slipping into the shoes of a UN operative? That's a Tuesday for her. With the real Val Cooper's extensive involvement with mutant affairs, Mystique could easily gather sensitive intel, manipulate political movements, and even redirect the course of mutant-human relations, all while hiding in plain sight.

Now, the twist: Remember when X-Men '97 introduced Valerie Cooper as this old friend of Xavier's who ends up pardoning Magneto, allowing him to lead the X-Men? That smells like Mystique's handiwork. Why? Because it's a move that reeks of deeper strategy, of playing the long game. Granting Magneto a pardon, putting him in a leadership position - it's the kind of chess move that could only benefit mutants in the long run. And who better to engineer such a maneuver than Mystique, all while wearing Valerie Cooper's face? But why, you ask, would Mystique go through all this trouble? Simple: family, ideology, and the mutant cause. Whether it's fighting for mutant rights, protecting her children, or just stirring the pot, Mystique's actions are always a few steps ahead of everyone else's. By being "Valerie Cooper," she has a front-row seat to the political theater, influencing decisions that could shape the future of mutantkind.

Also, as if that wasn't enough, go back to X-Men '97 episode 2 at the 20-minute mark. Valerie's eyes are a beautiful blue. Skip to the 22:41-minute mark in that same episode and look at her eye color. That's right - Mystique's signature yellow. If you're wondering if it's just the different lighting, take a look at everyone in the scene and notice how their eye color never changes. The plot thickens.

So, as we dive deeper into X-Men '97, keep an eye on "Valerie Cooper." Watch for those subtle hints, the slight missteps, or moments where her knowledge might seem a tad too intimate for a government official. Mystique is a master actress, but even the best have their tells.

If this theory holds water, we're not just watching X-Men '97; we're witnessing a masterclass in manipulation and strategy by none other than Mystique disguised as Valerie Cooper. And if that's the case, then we're in for a treat, my friends. Because when Mystique's involved, you can bet your bottom dollar the ride's going to be anything but ordinary.