Bab 56: The Meeting!
Madripoor - Maxim's Laboratory!
The sprawling underground laboratory beneath the High Table's headquarters was a marvel of modern technology. Although it had been a short time, Maxim had been swift with transferring all of his equipment from their home in America to here in Madripoor.
The walls shimmered faintly with a polished, obsidian-like surface embedded with holographic displays. Maxim stood at the central console, his attention focused on a three-dimensional projection of Madripoor's skyline.
A.N.G.E.L.'s voice echoed beside him, "Maxim, as per your request, I've compiled an update on Madripoor's current state and the status of your technological developments."
Maxim turned to her, his eyes sharp with focus, "Go ahead."
"The Energy Shield framework is complete and operational," A.N.G.E.L. began, gesturing to a visual display of the shield surrounding Madripoor. "The smart-energy barrier is fully adaptable, capable of filtering unauthorized strikes and Magical attacks while allowing safe passage for civilian and commercial traffic. We've tested it against simulated arial strikes, and Wanda's Magic, and the preliminary results have been exceptional."
Maxim gave a small nod, "Good. If anyone gets reckless, Madripoor will remain standing. Next?"
"The Tactical Drones and Cameras are in mass production," A.N.G.E.L. continued. "The cloaking technology is flawless, and the self-destruct functionality is precise. Field tests confirmed their ability to infiltrate and provide detailed reconnaissance."
Maxim smirked faintly, nodding as he awaited A.N.G.E.L to continue on her explanation.
"As for the self-sustaining power grids, they will need more testing and design improvements," she said, pulling up a hologram of Madripoor's infrastructure and a detailed map of the various plans Maxim has for it in the future.
"Fusion Tech development is working well, but the integration of Astral Energies and Vibranium-Based Cells still needs more development. The preliminary schematics you designed are still being comprehended." A.N.G.E.L said, and Maxim nodded.
His plan with integrating Astral Energy into the power source was not only to make it immune to Magical Disruptions, but to also test the new limits of his Astral Abilities that he was still training over time.
"Once everything goes to plan, the future energy source of the Nation will be completed, and Madripoor will be immune to external power disruptions, including EMPs." A.N.G.E.L explained.
Maxim crossed his arms, satisfied. "Excellent. A nation isn't truly independent until it can stand on its own." He said.
The amount of money spent on electricity and the likes for even the biggest nations in the world was truly insane. Comparatively, Maxim already had the advanced knowledge to create an energy source for his Nation, and he was well on the way to developing it.
"And the Nanobot swarms?"
"The swarms are fully deployed," A.N.G.E.L. said, showing video feeds of nanobots seamlessly repairing roads, bridges, and buildings, "They've reduced repair times by 87%, and the people have taken notice. Public morale is high."
Maxim took a deep breath, his mind racing through possibilities. If there was one kind of technology where Killjoy excelled, it was NanoTech.
Maxim had spent lots of time researching and using her intelligence to develop new uses for NanoTech that fit his goal, and the swarms were just the first one he deployed.
"Good. Madripoor is coming together faster than I thought. But it's not enough. We're still vulnerable. Keep pushing. I want this place to be untouchable by the end of this year."
"Understood," A.N.G.E.L. replied before pausing. Her expression shifted slightly, signaling a change in tone. "However, there's another matter that requires your attention."
Maxim raised an eyebrow. "What is it?"
"You've been contacted by the X-Men," A.N.G.E.L. said, her voice neutral but deliberate. "Professor Charles Xavier has extended an invitation for a meeting. The message suggests they wish to discuss the potential impact of your leadership in Madripoor on mutants worldwide."
Maxim exhaled, rubbing his chin thoughtfully, "The X-Men. I should've seen this coming. I assume they used a secure channel?"
"Of course," A.N.G.E.L. said, a hint of pride in her voice. "They're cautious, but their intentions seem genuine. Shall I schedule the meeting?"
Maxim nodded. "Do it. As soon as possible."
"I'll arrange the logistics and inform you of the time and location," A.N.G.E.L. said smoothly.
Maxim returned his gaze to the holographic display of Madripoor, his expression unreadable. "Anything else?"
A.N.G.E.L. hesitated briefly. "Not at this moment, Maxim. However, I would advise proceeding with caution. While the X-Men are not your enemies, their involvement could draw unwanted attention to Madripoor."
Maxim smirked faintly, his tone carrying a quiet confidence, "Attention is inevitable, A.N.G.E.L. What matters is how we handle it."
With that, he turned back to the console, continuing his work.
***************
TWO DAYS LATER!
The skies above Madripoor were overcast, though the atmosphere around the city buzzed with a newfound energy of transformation.
Far above the skyline, the advanced stealth jet of the X-Men pierced through the clouds, its cloaking technology shimmering faintly as it disengaged. The jet descended smoothly onto the designated landing pad at the High Table Headquarters, its engines humming softly as it powered down.
The hatch opened with a quiet hiss, and the X-Men stepped onto the platform. Professor Charles Xavier, seated in his hover-chair, led the group, flanked by Cyclops, Jean Grey, Storm, Beast, Rogue and of course, Maxim's little sister Katerina.
At the entrance, Wanda was waiting for them, dressed in a sleek black outfit accented with crimson details, radiating an aura of quiet confidence as their gazes naturally drifted to her.
As they approached, Professor Xavier's sharp mind immediately detected a strange, yet familiar energy emanating from her, leaving him confused and curious. But learning from his past meetings with Maxim, he decided not to probe.
"Welcome to Madripoor," Wanda greeted warmly, her accent carrying a soft Sokovian lilt. She glanced at Xavier, her eyes flickering with recognition and curiosity, "Maxim is expecting you. Please, follow me."
Without hesitation, the X-Men followed Wanda through the sleek corridors of the headquarters.
As they entered the meeting room, a figure darted across the space toward Maxim, who stood waiting at the center.
His little sister, Katerina, launched herself into his arms with a joyous squeal. Maxim's normally stern expression melted into a rare, genuine smile as he caught her, holding her close.
"Max!" Katerina exclaimed, her voice filled with happiness, "I missed you so much!"
"I missed you too, Katya," Maxim replied, his tone unusually gentle. He held her in a warm hug, examining her with a protective gaze, "You've grown stronger, haven't you? How's your time been with the X-Men?"
Katerina beamed and nodded enthusiastically. "It's been amazing! They're so nice to me, and I've learned so much about my powers. I've even made friends."
Maxim chuckled softly, brushing a strand of hair from her face, "Good. That's what I wanted for you. A place where you can be safe and grow."
The X-Men watched the interaction silently, noticing just how much the siblings cared for each-other. Maxim and Katerina continued to chatter away for a couple minutes, talking about how their lives had been for the past few months.
Once Katerina settled down, Maxim gestured toward the table, where seats had been arranged, "Please, sit. Let's discuss what brings you to Madripoor."
The X-Men nodded and all sat down, settling in while Maxim looked at them, beginning the meeting with a calm, commanding voice.
"I won't waste time. Madripoor has changed. I want this place to be a sanctuary to anyone who values freedom. That, of course, includes Mutants."
Cyclops frowned slightly as he listened to Maxim's words, "Freedom within reason, I assume?"
"Of course," Maxim replied. "I'm not offering a haven for criminals or murderers. Then it'll be no different than before I took over. It'll be a place for those who seek refuge, people who've been hunted, discriminated against, wronged or denied a place to call home. I intend to make this city a safe harbor."
Jean glanced at Xavier, who nodded thoughtfully "You understand, Maxim, that such a bold claim will draw attention, some of it hostile."
"I do," Maxim said evenly, "But I've already begun making Madripoor untouchable. You know better than anyone that alot of those international laws are irrelevant in the face of those major countries. I'm making sure that those places can't take advantage of anyone here. Energy shields, tactical defenses, self-sustaining power grids… this city will be a fortress. And as it grows stronger, so will its influence. I'm offering you and your people a chance to be part of that growth."
Storm's voice was calm but firm, "And what do you expect in return?"
"Mutual respect," Maxim said simply. "Nothing more, nothing less. Madripoor isn't a place where I demand loyalty or blind obedience. Follow the laws, contribute to the community, and you'll find a home here. Of course, I also hope that in the event of any attack, you all will work to protect this place."
Professor Xavier leaned forward, his gaze piercing. "And what of your sister? Do you plan for her to remain here?"
"She's free to choose her path," Maxim replied, his tone softening. "If she's happy with you, she stays. If she wants to return to me, she's welcome. Her happiness is all that matters."
After a long moment of silence, Xavier extended a hand. "Very well, Maxim. The X-Men will support Madripoor's growth as a sanctuary. Your vision aligns with ours."
Maxim clasped Xavier's hand firmly. "Good. I'll arrange accommodations for your team while you're here. Madripoor will continue to improve over the next months and years, and your input will be welcomed."
As the meeting concluded, Maxim rose, glancing at Katerina, "Come, Katya. Let's catch up."
As they left the room, Beast lingered, curiosity sparking in his eyes. He turned to one of the glowing panels embedded in the wall. "A.N.G.E.L., I presume?"
A smooth, feminine voice filled the room. "Correct, Dr. McCoy. I am A.N.G.E.L., Maxim's AI assistant. If you have any questions or ideas, feel free to share them. I'm always eager to learn."
The X-Men exchanged surprised glances. Rogue whistled low. "Well, ain't she a charmer."
Cyclops frowned but said nothing, while Beast's curiosity deepened. "Fascinating," he murmured.
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