How does Cyclone work?

[tedwin183]

So my interpretation of Cyclone is that eSorscha can make an advance, cast cyclone, which allows her to make another full advance, make her cyclone attacks...but then does she get initial attacks for being in cc with people? Someone explain to me how this ability works...

[thecsharian]

you're correct in your interpretation.

You can cyclone before or after moving, and before or after making attacks.
As part of the spell you may make a full advance (note that this does not mean you actually have to move), then you must attempt to make a melee attack against every model in your melee range (even friendly models).
Once the spell is over you continue your activation as usual. This means that you may move (if you haven't already used your movement), and make your action if you haven't already made your action.

Examples:
1) eSorscha engaged by mechani thralls.
You may cast freezing grip on the thralls, then cast cyclone, turning to a better position to have them all in your melee range and attacking each with a melee attack. You may then forfeit your movement to aim and fire your gun at any left.

2) Charging into the enemy.
Or you may (successfully) charge a model, then cyclone (either* before or after making your charge attack) to get deeper into enemy lines, make your cyclone attacks, and (if you didn't make a charge attack) your initial attacks, and then buy more attacks with focus.
*if you make a succesful charge then some how move out of melee range of your target, you loose your charge attack (bonus) but can still make your initial melee attacks.