Chapter 30: Chapter 30: Xavier School for Gifted Youngsters
Downey drove his convoy straight to a secluded school in Westchester, New York.
The Xavier School for Gifted Youngsters had developed rapidly over the past few decades but maintained an isolated existence.
Most people didn't even know it existed amidst the bustling chaos of New York City.
Only those at the highest levels of government and specific organizations were aware of it.
The school was exclusively for mutants—children and young adults with extraordinary abilities that set them apart from ordinary humans.
The headmaster was none other than Charles Xavier, known to many as Professor X.
He was one of the most respected mutant leaders, revered for his lifelong dedication to the peaceful coexistence of mutants and humans.
Professor X's reputation for strength and integrity made him a figure to be both respected and trusted.
Downey, however, was uneasy about meeting Professor X face-to-face. Xavier's psychic abilities were legendary, capable of reading minds in an instant.
Downey held many secrets, and he feared the professor might pry into his thoughts without his consent.
Though Professor X was known for his moral restraint, the possibility still gnawed at him.
But Downey had no choice. He needed help—guidance and a reliable ally.
The thought of approaching Magneto had crossed his mind, but Magneto's extremist philosophy of mutant superiority over humanity made him too dangerous to work with.
At least, not yet. Downey wasn't strong enough to deal with someone as powerful and uncompromising as Magneto.
Time was running out. The future loomed like a dark storm on the horizon. In the coming years, the earth would become a battleground for more than just mutants and humans.
Ancient forces, civilizations, and entities—some as old as the stars—would emerge from the shadows, triggering endless wars and devastation.
There would be no peace, only conflict and survival. Downey didn't know how long he could last, how many battles he would face, or how much blood he would spill.
But he knew he needed to be stronger. And Professor X was his best chance at gaining the strength to face what lay ahead.
Driving his customized convoy—Optimus Prime at the lead, his new motorcycle mounted on the back—Downey arrived at the gates of the Xavier School.
It was a serene place, tucked away from the noise and pollution of the city, a true sanctuary.
As Downey approached the school, the sound of the vehicles caught the attention of students.
A group of children of various ages gathered, whispering among themselves and pointing at the newcomer. Their curiosity was palpable.
Downey glanced at the children. Their faces were filled with innocence and curiosity, pure and untainted by the harshness of the outside world.
For the first time in what seemed like forever, Downey felt himself relax.
The tension that had gripped him for so long seemed to melt away in the presence of these children. It was a feeling of peace he hadn't expected.
"Welcome, Downey," a voice called out. A woman was waiting at the entrance, smiling warmly.
She had known he was coming, and there was no formality in her greeting.
She didn't even use "Mr." or "Sir," treating him as if he were an old friend.
"Dr. Grey," Downey said, recognizing her immediately. "I've seen you speak at congressional hearings, and I've read some of your papers. Thank you for all you've done."
The woman in front of him was Jean Grey, a powerful telepath and telekinetic, known to be one of the most formidable mutants alive.
Jean Grey smiled at him, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Oh? And which of my papers have you read? We could discuss them. I heard you went to college."
Downey grinned, trying to maintain his composure. "I've only read parts of them," he admitted sheepishly. "I'm very interested in your work on mutant abilities, though."
Jean gave him a knowing look. She was a teacher, after all. It was clear to her that Downey was bluffing, but she didn't call him out. She motioned for him to follow her.
"When you were on your way here, Professor Xavier sensed you," Jean explained as they walked.
"He asked me to meet you. He's been waiting to speak with you for some time."
As they walked along the cobblestone path, Downey noticed the curious stares of the students.
Some of them recognized him from the news. His name had been in the spotlight recently, and a few whispered excitedly that this was the mutant mechanic they had heard so much about.
"Is he the high-level mutant who appeared recently?" one boy asked in awe, his voice filled with admiration.
Rumors had been swirling about Downey's abilities, though no one seemed to know the full extent of them.
Speculation ranged from him being a third-level mutant to something much more powerful.
Following Jean, Downey reached the innermost part of the school, where a quaint, elegant building stood.
It was old but well-maintained, with beautiful, glazed Oriental tiles lining the perimeter.
The peaceful atmosphere was in stark contrast to the chaotic world outside.
Jean pushed open the door, revealing a room with large windows that let in the soft afternoon light.
A bald man sat in a wheelchair, facing away from them. Slowly, the chair turned, and Professor Charles Xavier greeted Downey with a kind, knowing smile.
His presence radiated calm and wisdom, and his eyes—though serene—were filled with centuries' worth of experience and understanding.
"Welcome, Downey," Professor X said warmly. "I've been expecting you."
Downey hesitated for a moment, standing in the presence of one of the most powerful and respected figures in the mutant world.
But then, his resolve hardened. He had come here for a reason, and he wouldn't leave until he got what he needed.
"Thank you for seeing me, Professor," Downey replied, his voice steady. "I have much to discuss."
The door closed behind him, and the conversation began.
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Sayo nara ~~