I think that the Pheonix is the opposite of Apocalypse, a force of Life and Rebirth (remember when she was "judging" those around her in the Hellfire arc?), and a Force of Chaos and Death... I think they were awakened by eachother. Perhaps when Jean used her power and awoke the Pheonix, Lord Apocalypse rose as well... I don't know, But i am convinced that it will be well done.
I also think that Apocalypse needs Sinister, because Sinister believes in him. Perhaps his faith grants Apocalypse power, and the ancient spirit can gain strength the more certain beasts are sacrificed in his name.
Has anyone realized that if Shaw was right in the Hellfire arc, that the SHIELD logo is a Pheonix? Anyone notice where this arc is taking place?
I bet that Northstar and Havok get to the cells with Deathstrike, Longshot, and Sinister... Seeing Sinister puts JP in shock, and Havok tries to get the location of Mag's cell from Longshot, who uses his abilities, imprisons (or Kills?) Alex, and then he leads the metal filled lady towards Magneto's cell... Sinister escapes... (he -is- invisible to radar)
Big X-Men/New Mutants/SHIELD/Brotherhood Battle ensues....
All is speculation, but i think that'd be cool.... But Vaughan will do a good job.
I bet the baby is Nathan Summers, or more likely named Nathan Grey (because they aren't going to get married this young). The baby will stay a baby. A baby that Apocalypse wants to inhabit (just like 616 Apoc wanted to possess the older Nate Grey), to get back at the Pheonix somehow... And to become the powerful ruler of the dimension.
I do think that Warren will become War and not Death... I mean. He -is- war... thats what he's called... maybe that's intentional.
I don't want accelerated aging, or time-travel. Apoc and Pheonix are plenty enough... And Cable is such an interesting character (if and only if done right). if they were to introduce him, it should be a while on...
I hope to God that Northstar doesn't die in this arc... He has a whole boatload of potential, especially with Colossus.