章節 772: Chapter 771 "The Black King Conspiracy"

"Colonel Hendry's sudden change in stance regarding the deployment of Jupiter missiles in Turkey is undoubtedly linked to the Black King," Moira asserted, drawing a direct connection between recent events and the enigmatic figure's machinations.

Understanding the urgency of the situation, Charles suggested reaching out to their superiors. Convinced that disclosing the existence of mutants to key decision-makers was imperative, he emphasized the need to garner their support in thwarting the Black King's nefarious plot.

In a world where mutants largely concealed their abilities out of fear, Charles recognized the importance of dispelling disbelief among global leaders. Only by acknowledging the reality of mutants could they grasp the gravity of the Black King's scheme and avert the catastrophic consequences of a potential nuclear conflict.

Jerry harbored a dissenting view on the matter. He believed that delaying the public disclosure of mutants would ensure their safety. Given the prevailing attitudes of human leaders, the revelation of mutant existence would likely lead to their persecution or exploitation, regardless of their intentions.

Despite his reservations, Jerry chose not to voice his opposition. Instead, he assented with a nod and a smile, accompanying the others to the airport and boarding a plane bound for Washington.

His mission in this universe wasn't to advocate for mutant rights or promote coexistence between humans and mutants. He sought only Jean Grey's Phoenix Power.

Engrossed in his singular objective, Jerry declined to join the discussion with the authorities. Instead, he opted to explore the city, leaving the others to handle diplomatic matters. His focus remained fixed on using the brainwave amplifier to locate new mutants, biding his time until he could harness Jean Grey's power the following year.

"I'll skip the meeting with the chief. Find me at the hotel when you're finished. I'll be out shopping," Jerry announced before parting ways.

The following day, Jerry bid farewell to Charles and the others at the entrance of the Washington Hotel. He then set off toward the bustling downtown area, showing no inclination to engage in negotiations with the CIA leadership. Visiting the capital of the United States during this era piqued his interest more, and besides, he already anticipated the inevitable outcome of any discussions with the CIA.

Observing Jerry's departure, Charles and his companions felt a sense of resignation. While they wished for Jerry's presence during their meeting with the CIA director, they understood his prior agreement. Jerry had provided them with information out of a sense of altruism, driven by a desire to prevent nuclear conflict and spare innocent lives.

Recognizing Jerry's autonomy, they refrained from pressuring him. After all, his extraordinary telepathic abilities, which surpassed Charles's own, granted him an unparalleled level of agency. While Charles remained unable to probe Jerry's thoughts, Jerry possessed the ability to access Charles's innermost musings at will.

Upon Jerry's return to the hotel that evening, he found the trio already back, accompanied by the CIA director of science and technology and Eric Lang, another mutant possessing the ability to manipulate magnetic fields.

After exchanging pleasantries, they briefly recounted the day's events. Meeting with the CIA director had proven challenging. Initially skeptical of Charles's telepathic abilities, the director dismissed him as a spy. It wasn't until Mystique assumed the director's guise that their claims of mutant existence gained credence.

However, rather than offering immediate assistance, the director opted to detain mutants, including Charles. It was only through Charles's persuasive efforts that the director of the Science and Technology Department and Agent Moira defied orders, joining forces to confront the Black King and his mutant cohorts.

The meeting at the pier quickly turned into a deadly skirmish as the CIA's elite agents faced off against the formidable mutants. A tornado unleashed by the opposing side decimated most of the CIA's forces, with Charles's timely telepathic intervention preventing further casualties by thwarting the White Queen's mind control.

Amidst the chaos, they encountered Eric, also known as Magneto, driven by a quest for vengeance against the Black King for his mother's murder. Utilizing his mastery over metal, Eric wreaked havoc upon the Black King's yacht, forcing their retreat into a nuclear submarine. However, Eric himself nearly met a watery grave in the process.

In a heroic act, Charles saved Eric from drowning, a pivotal moment that showcased the CIA director the true capabilities of mutants. Consequently, the director consented to the formation of a mutant task force within the CIA dedicated to combating threats like the Black King.

Upon hearing Charles's account, Jerry remained stoic, unfazed by the revelation of his impending affiliation with the CIA. To him, such labels held little significance, and he remained indifferent to the prospect of joining the ranks of government operatives.

Charles clarified that the official procedures for Jerry's induction into the CIA's mutant task force would be completed that night, paving the way for his formal introduction to the team the following day.

"I've believed in the existence of people with superpowers since I was a child. Despite being ridiculed for it, my conviction never wavered," emotionally confessed the rotund director of the CIA's Science and Technology Division.

Jerry smiled at the director's heartfelt admission, finding a semblance of familiarity in his fervor. After exchanging pleasantries with the new acquaintance, Eric, Jerry bid them farewell and retired to his room.

The person Jerry had in mind was Coulson, the current director of SHIELD. Like the CIA director, Coulson shared a lifelong fascination with superheroes and individuals possessing extraordinary abilities.

Driven by his admiration for superheroes, Coulson's journey led him to SHIELD, where he immersed himself in a world of intrigue and heroism. Similarly, the CIA's Science and Technology Division director, fueled by his passion for super-powered individuals, embarked on a career that culminated in his current position.

Jerry smiled at the director's heartfelt admission, finding a semblance of familiarity in his enthusiasm. After exchanging pleasantries with the new acquaintance, Eric, Jerry bid them farewell and retired to his room.

Indeed, amidst the fascination and admiration for superpowers, there lurked darker intentions. Many government officials and scientists conducted cruel experiments on beings with special abilities, seeking to harness their powers for nefarious purposes. However, individuals like Coulson and the CIA director represented a different perspective—they appreciated the existence of superpowers simply for what they were.

In a world where the line between good and evil blurred, it became increasingly challenging to discern the intentions behind the pursuit of superpowers. Some sought to exploit them, while others genuinely admired and respected them.