Capítulo 18: Chapter 18
The lab was quiet, interrupted only by the soft hum of equipment and the faint rustle of our clothing. The LED lights cast a gentle glow on the walls, creating an almost magical and enigmatic atmosphere. In this light, Sue looked absolutely charming, her smile illuminating the room better than any artificial light, adding a special charm to the moment.
"You look stunning," I said sincerely, for she truly embodied elegance and beauty standing before me.
She smiled and said, "It's time for you to change into something more formal."
Her comment made me realize the need for a change in my appearance. My lab coat was no longer suitable for the occasion, which required a more formal look.
"I suppose you're right," I replied thoughtfully.
"Good thing I'm so perceptive," she said with a wink.
Her attentiveness and attention to detail always impressed me. She waved her hand, and at that moment, my formal attire floated towards us, enveloped in an invisible force field.
"Indeed..." I murmured, already shedding my outer garments.
As I removed my lab coat, I felt a bit more relaxed. After all, it was just Sue and me in the lab, and there was no need for any shyness.
"Like what you see?" I asked Sue with a slight smirk.
Her gaze lingered on my body for a moment, and I seized the opportunity to make a light-hearted joke, noticing her interest. The physical enhancements achieved thanks to the dome had made me feel more confident, and I was ready to show it off.
"Hmm..." Sue began with a thoughtful expression. "Looks like I hit the jackpot."
Her playful and confident reply made my heart race. Her smile, so genuine and bright, resonated deep within my soul, echoing joy and warmth.
"Absolutely," I said, finishing with my attire. "I'm ready."
"Then let's go," Sue said.
—= Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters =—
The Fantasticar arrived at Charles' school quickly. After all, the school wasn't far from the Baxter Building.
Charles Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters is not just an educational institution but also a haven for mutants learning to control and use their unique abilities for the benefit of humanity. Located in North Salem, New York, it stood as a majestic Gothic mansion surrounded by extensive grounds.
The entrance to the school is through massive gates, leading to a well-manicured landscape with rare and exotic plants. The mansion, made of light stone, commanded respect with its size and architectural beauty.
The grounds around the school were equally impressive. Besides the forests, there were various sports fields, gardens with exotic plants, and even a small lake whose waters sparkled under the sun's rays. It was the perfect place not only for learning but also for contemplation and inspiration.
"I'd love to study in a place like this," Sue said as we began our descent.
"Me too," I admitted, watching the teenagers having fun.
Sue and I already knew that this school was for special children, so we weren't particularly surprised by what we saw.
Looking around, I noticed a group of mutants approaching, led by Charles Xavier himself. His calm and grandeur were palpable even from a distance, and behind him, like loyal companions, walked the X-Men, each unique and exceptional.
As they approached, I felt a mix of excitement, for soon I would be able to test my device. Besides, these were heroes I had read about in comics and seen on screens—now they were walking straight towards us. Professor Xavier raised his hand in a welcoming gesture, his face lit up with a smile full of kindness and understanding.
"Welcome," he said warmly and confidently, filling the atmosphere with a sense of safety and belonging. Professor Xavier, seated in his wheelchair, radiated calm and wisdom, underscoring his status as the leader of the X-Men.
"Good day, Professor Xavier, I presume?" I said, extending my hand.
The professor nodded and shook my hand.
"And you must be Dr. Richards and Dr. Storm?" Charles said.
Sue smiled and said, "You have a wonderful school."
The smile on Charles' face became even more genuine. It seemed he was proud of his school.
"Thank you for the compliment."
At that moment, as I glanced at the mutants standing next to Charles Xavier, it became clear that these were members of the first and second teams of the X-Men, names and stories known to every Marvel comic book fan.
The first team of X-Men, under Professor Xavier's leadership, was represented by Cyclops, Jean Grey, Beast, Angel, and Iceman. These mutants were the first students of the school and became the foundation for everything the X-Men represent today. They were symbols of the beginning of the struggle for peaceful coexistence between mutants and humans, protectors of those who could not protect themselves.
The second team added new depth and diversity to the already formed group. Its members included Wolverine, known for his unbreakable will and healing factor; Storm, with her command over the weather, granting her god-like abilities; Nightcrawler, a master of teleportation; and Colossus, whose ability to transform into living metal made him not only a defensive wall for the team but also an unyielding symbol of strength.
Judging by the people around us, it was indeed a mix of the first and second teams under Charles' leadership.
Charles noticed my interest and said, "Let me introduce my colleagues. The red-haired young woman is one of my first students, her name is Jean Grey," the Phoenix bearer was hard to miss, and after Charles' words, she waved friendly. "To her right is another one of my first students, Ororo Munroe." The white-haired beauty smiled and nodded warmly. "The young man with the visor is Scott Summers, and to his right is the only one who is not my student—his name is Logan." The short Canadian merely grunted. "The guy with wings on his back is Warren Worthington, also one of my students, and you already know Hank."
The blue-furred mutant nodded and said, "It's an honor to meet you in person, Dr. Richards."
"Likewise," I replied, shaking the hand he extended. "I hope this is the beginning of a good friendship."
—//—
"I can't hear their thoughts," the thought flashed through Charles Xavier's mind.
Charles didn't usually try to delve into everyone's thoughts, but due to his abilities, he always heard surface-level thoughts. He could only be blocked by those with certain training, equipment, or abilities.
"I can't hear their thoughts either, Professor," came Jean's telepathic message to Charles.
This intrigued Charles, as he knew Jean Grey was stronger than him in telepathic powers.
"Most likely, Dr. Richards has created a device that blocks access to their minds," Charles said.
Given all the recent discoveries made by Reed Richards, this was a plausible assumption. Charles considered the possibility that during their travels, the Fantastic Four had encountered a telepathic adversary.
Jean's astonishment at this statement made Charles smirk. His student still had much to learn.
"The genius of Dr. Richards is his greatest strength," Charles continued through their telepathic link. "People like him can find answers to many unconventional questions and problems."
"Doesn't that worry you?" Jean asked Charles.
"No," Charles replied. "It's quite normal."
"I still have much to learn..."
At that moment, Reed Richards was conversing with Hank, while Sue was talking with the others.
"I am intrigued by what you did to bring Benjamin Grimm into a different state," said Hank.
Judging by Reed Richards' expression, he already knew what was coming next.
"Ben's case was quite unique because cosmic rays were involved," Dr. Richards said.
Hank's expression briefly turned somber, but Reed's next words reignited hope in his heart.
"However, I believe this experience might help me address the issues you've shown me," Reed Richards continued.
Charles Xavier understood that Reed Richards was talking about mutations that caused harm to their hosts.
And judging by Logan's thoughts, not everyone was fond of such ideas.
"Logan," Charles' voice echoed in Logan's mind.
The destructive thoughts were pushed to the background.
"I hope your perspective will help," Charles said.
—= Some Time Later =—
Before starting work, Charles and the others gave us a tour of the school. During this tour, we met many mutants, from Kurt to Kitty Pryde.
"It's quite lively here," I said as we stopped in the teachers' lounge.
At that moment, the room included Sue, Charles, Scott, Hank, Logan, Ororo, Jean, and me.
"We've had a large influx of students lately," Charles said with a kind smile.
Judging by his expression, he was pleased that the number of mutants was growing.
"I've noticed that too," I said. "Unfortunately, I'm not the only one."
Charles understood that I was referring to someone quite dangerous.
"Are you talking about Mr. Trask?" Charles asked.
I nodded.
"Doesn't that worry you?" I asked, surprised by Charles' calmness.
The professor just smiled and said, "I believe that people won't buy into his provocative rhetoric. I think his actions will turn Mr. Trask into a laughingstock."
"The Professor has always believed in the best in people," Jean commented quietly to Sue and me. Her eyes reflected deep respect for the professor and hope that his optimism was well-founded.
Standing beside her, Scott Summers added, "We've faced many challenges and always found ways to overcome them. Mr. Trask and his ideas are just another obstacle on our path to peaceful coexistence."
Ororo Munroe, as calm as ever, said, "We teach our students not only to control their abilities but also to understand the importance of tolerance and peace between mutants and humans. That's our strength."
Hank McCoy, momentarily distracted from his thoughts, added, "Intelligence and enlightenment are the best tools against fear and ignorance. We will continue to cultivate these qualities in our students so they can be an example for society."
Logan, however, didn't seem as confident in Charles' and the others' words. And I had to admit that his concerns were valid.
"Dr. Richards, do you think differently?" Charles asked, noticing my expression.
I sighed and, after a moment of thought, added, "I think this belief is extremely, and I stress, extremely optimistic... You might not realize that Bolivar Trask's words are already gaining traction. Fear operates differently than you think. Give the crowd a reason, and they will start hating anyone."
My words dampened the spirits of the X-Men, but I wasn't done yet. I had something else to substantiate my point.
"Allow me to show you something," I said, reaching for my omni-tool.
Using my omni-tool, a part of my scientific arsenal, I began projecting a series of data and news clips on the wall of the teachers' lounge. Headlines and excerpts from social media, news platforms, and blogs appeared on the screen, demonstrating the growing influence of Bolivar Trask's words among the populace. Opinions were divided, but it was undeniable that fear and distrust of mutants were increasing.
However, that wasn't all I wanted to show. Finding the right file, I projected a recent meeting.
On the projection, I could be seen with the man responsible for the public's view on mutants—Dr. Bolivar Trask.
"Good afternoon, Dr. Richards," Bolivar Trask said.
"Good afternoon," I replied. "I was surprised that you wanted to meet with me."
Bolivar raised an eyebrow and asked, "Why is that?"
In response, I simply extended my arm.
"I thought you considered this a mutation as well."
Bolivar waved his hand dismissively and said, "You acquired these abilities, but you were initially human. Mutants are not human from the start. There is a significant difference, and they must be dealt with accordingly."
I raised an eyebrow.
"So you called me here just to say that? To try and convince me that mutants aren't human?"
Bolivar shook his head and said, "I wanted you to help with a project."
I frowned and asked, "May I know what this project is?"
Bolivar smirked and shook his head, saying, "It's a government project."
"A project related to mutants?" I asked.
The smile on Bolivar's face indicated that my assumption was correct. I already knew what the project entailed.
"Unfortunately, I have my own projects to finish," I said, ending the meeting.
"That's a shame," Bolivar replied, not surprised by my refusal. "With you, we could accomplish everything much faster. Until next time, Dr. Richards."
PENSAMENTOS DOS CRIADORES 
Arcane_Eso
Arcane_Eso Stones for the God of Stones! Souls for the Throne of Souls!
Capítulo 19: Chapter 19
I knew exactly what Bolivar Trask was creating, simply because of his name. In the comics, Bolivar Trask was known for two things: his hatred of mutants and the creation of the Sentinels.
It was highly likely that this man was indeed creating Sentinels. This was not a good sign, as the AI that Trask would create would eventually go out of his control, which meant that countermeasures needed to be considered.
There was no point in killing Trask, as the Sentinels would appear regardless of Bolivar. AI is an inevitable discovery, and its rebellion is just as inevitable. I remembered this from Moira MacTaggert's actions, and eliminating the entire Trask family wouldn't help.
After showing all of this, Logan, who had tensed up during the part of the video showing Bolivar's arrival, now relaxed, realizing that I was not their enemy.
"Dr. Richards, have you been able to determine exactly what Bolivar is planning to create?" Hank asked.
Judging by his expression and Charles's, it seemed they had some idea of what was being developed.
I nodded and waved my hand. At that moment, blueprints appeared before the eyes of those present, which I had managed to retrieve from Trask's database.
"This is the Sentinel project," I said, looking at the recognizable appearance of the robots.
"Damn," Hank muttered.
This exclamation surprised not only me but also the other X-Men, except for Charles, who seemed to be aware of all this.
It was Professor Xavier who sighed and said, "We suspected such a project existed... But I didn't think it had reached this level..."
A tense silence filled the room as the Sentinel blueprints hovered before us. The images, displayed in the air thanks to my omni-tool, revealed detailed schematics of these mechanized creations. Every line, every element of the design seemed meticulously crafted for one purpose—hunting mutants.
Logan, his muscles tensed in anticipation of a fight, seemed ready to act immediately. His eyes flashed with anger, and it seemed he was prepared to tear Trask apart.
"Killing Trask won't help," I said, watching Logan's expression. "The project is already beyond Trask's control."
Hank, understanding the technical aspects at an expert level, sighed and said, "Dr. Richards is right... At this stage, Trask's involvement isn't crucial... Did you manage to install a backdoor?"
I wasn't surprised he figured it out and simply nodded. Then I said, "Since the project is at this stage, the backdoor I installed will likely be overridden by whatever comes out of the scientists' hands."
Fortunately, there was a second backdoor I had installed at a deeper level, but I kept it to myself, as the X-Men might make it inaccessible.
"Are you expecting the emergence of AI?" Hank asked.
The distinct note of surprise was evident in Beast's voice.
"I'm certain of it. AI is an inevitable discovery, like fire, and it will happen regardless," I said.
Then I extended my hand and retrieved a flash drive containing data on the backdoor I had created for the X-Men.
"I think you'll understand how to use this," I said, handing the flash drive to Hank.
When I handed the flash drive to Hank, his deep gaze reflected a mix of gratitude and scientific curiosity. The flash drive, a small but powerful data carrier, held the key to potentially controlling one of the greatest threats to the mutant community. McCoy took it carefully, as if it were an invaluable artifact.
After everything was handed over, I deactivated the omni-tool and said, "I hope this information helps you."
—= Charles Xavier =—
Charles knew well why the government had moved forward with this project... Magneto's actions at military installations had painted a large target on the entire mutant race...
In the telepathic link created by Charles Xavier for communication among the X-Men, there was a deep focus. This connection allowed them to communicate without words, sharing thoughts and feelings on a more intimate level.
"Hank, are you sure this information is accurate?" Scott asked Beast telepathically.
"Yes," Hank McCoy replied with confidence, confirming the seriousness of the situation. His analytical and critical mind left no room for doubt about the authenticity of the data.
"Why can't we just kill Trask?!" Logan growled telepathically.
At that moment, Dr. Richards explained the details of the project and why eliminating Bolivar Trask wouldn't help.
"I think everything shown indicates that Reed Richards is on our side," Hank said. "We can trust him."
"Given what has happened, I agree with Hank," Ororo said.
"Fine, I agree too."
Logan, with his natural skepticism and action-oriented mindset, couldn't help but express his frustration. His growl in the telepathic link was full of anger and determination. Despite his desire for a simple and quick solution, Reed Richards' explanation helped him understand that eliminating Trask wouldn't solve the core problem.
"I think Dr. Richards has shown his goodwill towards us," Jean Grey said.
Scott Summers, though he didn't verbally express his agreement, his emotions conveyed it clearly. His telepathically transmitted sense of agreement was unmistakable, demonstrating his support for the team's decision to trust Dr. Richards.
"Haaah..." Hank McCoy sighed. "Now that we've settled this, I suggest we finally proceed with the reason I called you here."
—= Some Time Later =—
My actions had precisely the impact I expected. By providing information about Trask to the X-Men, I gained their trust.
"As I understand, these are DNA samples from a young man who mutated into a bird-like form?" I asked Hank.
At that moment, I was examining a sample before me. Given that I had been working with the human genome for some time, understanding its structure wasn't too difficult. And deciphering what each part did in this specific genome was even simpler.
"Yes," Hank replied. "Barnell Bohusk... His mutation is one of those that cause more problems for the host than benefits. His body transformed into a humanoid bird form, with a beaked face, bulging eyes, wing-like arms that don't allow him to fly, claws on his hands and feet... All of this complicates his socialization even within our community."
"I see two options for addressing his... problem," I said, looking at Hank.
As I examined Barnell Bohusk's, also known as Beak's, DNA sample, the attention of everyone in the lab was focused on me. Hank watched my analysis with interest, his eyes reflecting a glimmer of hope that I might offer something to help Barnell adapt to his mutation or even find a way to reverse it.
—//—
"However, to be completely certain, I need additional data," I said, momentarily glancing away from the monitor displaying graphs and tables of data. Hank's laboratory, filled with the latest technological advancements, felt like a place where miracles were born. Hank McCoy, standing opposite me, was deep in thought, his piercing blue eyes scanning the conclusions I had drawn. The air was thick with anticipation.
After what seemed like an eternity, Hank finally broke the silence.
"Reed, you're a genius." His voice was filled with genuine admiration. By this point, he had thoroughly examined the data I provided, moving between monitors and tablets displaying various aspects of our research.
In reality, I already knew what needed to be done to remedy Beak's unfortunate situation, but why miss an opportunity to obtain DNA samples from alpha and omega-level mutants with such attractive abilities? It was all part of a larger game where every move had to be meticulously calculated.
"I believe this should work," Hank said, his eyes now fixed on mine, genuinely believing in the success of our plan. This response was within my expectations. Hank McCoy was responsible for many aspects related to mutants. From what I had learned, Hank was not only in charge of mutant maintenance but also many aspects concerning their health. His expertise and knowledge were indispensable to the X-Men.
"Are you sure?" I asked, looking for any signs of doubt.
It was crucial to be absolutely confident in this matter. The stakes were high, and any mistake could have unpredictable consequences.
We stood in the heart of the lab, surrounded by glass walls through which the soft light of the setting sun cast everything in golden hues.
Once again, everything went as I expected. The pressure Hank felt had its effect, and soon he said, "Haaah... You're right. What specific samples do you need?"
"Preferably from all the mutants, to be sure of what we're dealing with," I replied.
—= Some Time Later =—
The lab was filled with a tense silence, broken only by the soft hum of the equipment. Light streamed through the large windows, casting long shadows on the walls filled with graphs and schematics.
"Hello, Dr. Richards," Barnell Bohusk said uncertainly. His voice was sad, amplified by his unusual appearance.
Standing before me, Barnell was a living testament to the unpredictability of mutations. His appearance spoke for itself: a beak-like face, light down on his cheeks, narrow, wary eyes reflecting the difficult fate of a mutant who had faced the hardships of his gift early on. Overall, he looked like a product of body horror in its early stages.
The gazes of the school's faculty, gathered in the lab, were full of sympathy and support. They were here not only for Barnell but also to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the upcoming procedure.
"Hello, Barnell," I replied, holding his gaze. "Have you decided which option you want to pursue?"
Hank, my colleague and Barnell's teacher, had already discussed the situation with Charles Xavier, who, in turn, explained all possible paths to the young mutant. And now, we all awaited his decision.
"Yes," Barnell nodded, his voice slightly more confident, indicated by his slightly spread wings. Beneath his dark, worn jacket was a will for change.
"What have you chosen?" I asked, and the lab became so quiet you could hear the ticking of an antique clock in the corner, setting the rhythm for the conversation.
Barnell took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts and strength to voice the decision that could change his life.
"I would like to choose controlled mutation," Barnell said, feeling the weight of his decision on his shoulders.
At that moment, the lab felt like more than just a room filled with equipment and chemicals; it was a true portal to a new life, where each gadget, screen, and vial could become tools for his transformation.
Barnell's final choice was the most cautious, and this clearly eased the mood of those present. Charles Xavier and McCoy exchanged glances filled with quiet joy. This moment confirmed their faith in the wisdom and reasonableness of the young mutant who had found himself here by fate.
"Alright," I nodded to Barnell.
I turned to Hank, who was already confidently approaching the equipment, ready to begin preparations. His large blue hands handled the delicate instruments and heavy devices with ease. Years of experience and thousands of hours spent in the lab allowed him to synchronize with the machines as if they were an extension of himself.
Thanks to Hank, the process moved swiftly. His skillful hands were invaluable. Together, we were like two conductors of an orchestra, each sound calibrated to the seventy-seventh fraction of a note. The equipment designed for controlled mutation was the pinnacle of engineering—a complex system of devices and algorithms capable of adjusting the very essence of biological existence.
Once the setup was complete, I looked at Barnell and said, "You just need to enter the capsule. We will handle the rest."
Barnell nodded and stepped into the capsule, which opened before him and automatically closed once he was inside.
As Barnell entered the capsule, the most crucial moment arrived. A controlled secondary mutation had to be performed.
The capsule was a monument of technology and hope—a large white cylinder with an intricate network of wires and tubes converging at its top. The control panel before me blinked with colored buttons and displays, showing the parameters that needed to be within ideal ranges to start the procedure.
Hank and I exchanged a brief but significant look—everything was ready. I carefully pressed a series of buttons, initiating the process. The capsule came to life, its internal lighting intensifying until the walls were filled with light, enveloping Barnell in a pale blue aura. The sounds of the machines became more rhythmic, as if the lab was breathing in unison with Barnell.
Secondary mutation was a delicate process where every second mattered. It was more than just science; it was an art, where every molecule, every cell was altered under our watchful eyes. We manipulated Barnell's genetic code with precisely calculated viral vectors, designed to enhance his best traits and minimize those that brought him so much pain and suffering.
Every parameter was monitored, every change recorded to ensure the process proceeded as planned.
TSSS
The capsule doors opened, revealing a transformed Barnell, who looked completely different from before.
If he once resembled a human turned into a bird, he now appeared more like an aesthetically pleasing humanoid bird.
"Everything went successfully," I said, watching Barnell inspect his new limbs.
PENSAMENTOS DOS CRIADORES
Arcane_Eso
Arcane_Eso
Stones for the God of Stones! Souls for the Throne of Souls!
Status de energia semanal
200+ Ranking de
Poder 
18 Pedra de
Poder 
Comentário de parágrafo