X-Men: Cable needs the techno-organic virus to survive

One of the best things about X-Men ‘97 is the show’s comic book accuracy. Some things have changed, but they’ve kept the important moments intact. For example, Nathan Summers was infected by the techno-organic virus (episode five). Like the Marvel comic book, Nathan was sent to the future to survive the virus.  The funny thing is the virus that was going to kill him ended up saving his life.

It’s a little-known fact that Nathan Summers (Cable) was one of the most powerful telepaths in the world. During Cable and Deadpool’s “If Looks Could Kill” and “The Burnt Offering”, Cable could read the minds of everyone in the world at once. While doing that, he held an entire city in the air and fought with his telekinesis. Not even Jean Grey or Charles Xavier could do that simultaneously. The problem is no one’s body is built to hold that much power. Thankfully for Cable, that's where the techno-organic virus comes into play.

Cable’s psychic powers keep his techno-organic virus from overwhelming his body. Without it, the virus would turn his entire body into metal (read Cable No. 16 and 17 by Duane Swierczynski for an example). Sometimes Cable will use his mutant powers during dire moments (or if he doesn’t want to get water in his shoulder pads). However, the virus will begin to infect more parts of his body.

As you can see, Cable’s powers and virus are a gift and a curse. Cable can keep the virus in check and not be as powerful. Or, he can burn the candle at both ends. The latter is what Nate Grey (X-Man) decided to do during Matthew Rosenberg's Uncanny X-Men. 

During this run of Uncanny X-Men, Nate Grey's powers were overwhelming his body. Before he could die, Nate wanted to make the world a better place. Unfortunately, he went about it the wrong way.

First, he brainwashed Magneto, Blob, Angel, and Omega Red to become his Horsemen of Salvation. Then, his horsemen attacked the X-Men so they couldn't interfere with his plans. Next, he mind-controlled Jamie Madrox, enhanced his Multiple Man abilities, and gave him the powers of other mutants. He did this on top of capturing Apocalypse and Kate Pryde.

That’s the kind of power Cable has within him. If not for the techno-organic virus, Nathan Summers would have died before he reached 30. Thankfully it’s inside his body. Nevertheless, Cable will be the first to admit that the virus can be a pain in the butt, but it’s better than being dead. 

Did you enjoy how X-Men '97 explained why Nathan goes into the future? Are you looking forward to seeing Cable in a future episode?