Chapter 43 - Training Day

The Xavier Institute buzzed with activity as the mutants geared up for another day of training. Anthony floated effortlessly through the hallways, his feet never touching the ground. It had become second nature to him, the constant levitation granting him a sense of freedom and fluidity in his movements. He passed by familiar faces, acknowledging them with a nod and a small smile. It was a routine he had grown accustomed to since joining the X-Men.

As the day's classes began, Anthony found himself in the training room alongside his teammates. Professor Xavier had devised a series of exercises to help them hone their mutant abilities and combat skills. Anthony was eager to put his reality-warping powers to the test.

In the first exercise, the mutants practiced hand-to-hand combat techniques. Anthony partnered with Bobby, his levitation allowing him to maneuver effortlessly around his opponent. He used his telekinesis to lift objects from the environment, creating obstacles for Bobby to overcome. The ice-controlling mutant responded with quick reflexes and icy attacks, forcing Anthony to stay on his toes.

Next, they moved on to a target practice session. Scott, with his optic blasts, took the lead, carefully aiming to hit the moving targets while avoiding collateral damage. Anthony used his object metamorphosis to modify the targets, making them smaller and harder to hit. It became a game of precision and control, both mutants trying to outdo each other in their accuracy.

During a break between sessions, Anthony observed Rachel chatting with Jean and Kurt, their laughter echoing through the room. He respected Rachel's energy manipulation powers and knew that her abilities could be a potent asset in any battle. However, he remained an independent observer, not one to easily join in casual conversations.

After the break, Professor Xavier introduced a new exercise that required teamwork and strategy. The mutants were split into groups, and Anthony found himself paired with Rogue. He acknowledged her strength and skills, but he was still cautious around her. He knew that Rogue's power to absorb the abilities of others was a formidable and dangerous one.

As the exercise commenced, Anthony and Rogue worked together to navigate a maze filled with traps and challenges. Anthony used his telekinesis to lift Rogue over obstacles, allowing her to deactivate the traps. He maintained a distance, avoiding any physical contact with her, as he didn't want to risk exposing his abilities.

"Thanks, Anthony," Rogue said with a smile as she landed gracefully on the other side of a pitfall.

"No problem," Anthony replied, trying to sound casual despite the caution he felt.

As they continued through the maze, Anthony couldn't help but marvel at Rogue's fearlessness and determination. She faced each obstacle head-on, and her combat skills were impressive. Although he respected her capabilities, he preferred to keep his guard up, remaining true to his introverted nature.

The training session continued for hours, each exercise pushing the mutants to their limits. Anthony was exhausted but exhilarated. He relished the opportunity to develop his powers and improve his combat skills, but he also cherished the moments of solitude and introspection that followed.

As the day drew to a close, Anthony joined the others in the common area, where they shared stories and laughter over dinner. He enjoyed the camaraderie with his fellow mutants, but he also valued his independence. He knew that his confidence came from within, and he was determined to stay true to himself.

And so, as the sun set on another training day at the Xavier Institute, Anthony looked forward to the challenges and adventures that awaited him. He knew that with each passing day, he would continue to grow stronger, both as a mutant and as an individual with his own unique path to follow.