Nick Fury's anxiety intensified as he processed the current situation. Whether Xu Mo's actions were intentional or not, All Might's appearance was a game-changer. It was clear that All Might's presence would significantly impact the mutant status and bolster Charles Xavier's efforts to shift global prejudices.
The promotion of the comics featuring All Might had already heightened his profile globally. All Might was set to replace Captain Steve Rogers as the symbol of righteousness and heroism. With a living hero now in the spotlight, Fury worried about potential hostilities from the U.S. government.
The U.S. Constitution allowed citizens to own guns to guard against government oppression, but with powerful heroes potentially opposing the government, the consequences could be severe. Fury feared that while Xu Mo was unlikely to incite rebellion, replacing a beloved American symbol like Captain Steve could provoke serious unrest among the elite.
The key players—Congress, the White House, and the influential groups behind them—were undoubtedly concerned. The death of Steve Rogers was one thing, but a new, living symbol of heroism like All Might posed a real challenge. Such a powerful figure could disrupt the established order, and Fury knew they needed to act quickly.
Fury sighed heavily and instructed Commander Hill, "We need to accelerate Coulson's efforts. We must counteract All Might's impact on the younger generation."
"Get him a captain."
With All Might now a prominent figure at the Hero Academy, the reporters' cameras flashed incessantly. All Might had made a quick exit the previous night, avoiding the media frenzy. His appearance at the Hero Academy was a significant event, especially given the comic's popularity and the expectation that many people would be eager to see him.
As All Might took the stage, his commanding presence captivated the audience. He grabbed the microphone, his intense gaze and authoritative tone demanding attention:
"I am All Might. I am here to issue a formal warning to criminals worldwide: cease your acts of endangerment and surrender immediately to reduce your crimes."
"I am declaring war on behalf of the Hero Academy. We are heroes committed to protecting global peace."
"To those in need of help, remember this: It's okay, because the hero is here."
All Might's powerful declaration resonated deeply, bringing a sense of warmth and security to everyone watching. His words offered reassurance and a promise of protection, reinforcing the idea that heroes are there to stand against evil.
The opening ceremony concluded with All Might delivering a brief but impactful message. Xu Mo then took the microphone, unveiling a special treat for the attendees.
"The opening ceremony has ended. As a token of appreciation, we are giving out free copies of the latest comic issue to everyone present. It features next week's release of 'Juvenile Jump.'"
"This issue also includes All Might's autograph on the first page."
The unexpected announcement left many who were not present stunned. The news spread rapidly, causing countless fans to rush to the Hero Academy in hopes of obtaining a copy.
The scene outside the Academy grew chaotic as visitors flocked to grab their free comics. The staff struggled to keep up with the demand, and a few visitors with a more calculated approach began searching for specific items among the comics.
A new comic titled "Magic: Banned Book Catalog" caught their attention. Though they didn't linger, they reported their findings to various factions, including S.H.I.E.L.D., Hydra, and the military.
A middle-aged man with Asian features, eyes narrowing as he surveyed the scene, whispered into his mini communicator, "Director, the target has entered the castle. Should we make contact?"
"No. The current excitement makes it too risky. Secure the magazines and lie low. Fury is in a bad mood—avoid drawing his ire."
"Wait until things settle down."
"Yes, sir. The chief seems to have noticed me." The man glanced around nervously. "This is a first, but there's no immediate response."
"Proceed as instructed. We'll decide on further actions later."
The mysterious agent blended back into the crowd, seemingly unperturbed by the situation.
As the opening ceremony wrapped up, Xu Mo and All Might walked through the college corridors, sensing the eyes of observers upon them. Xu Mo's enhanced vision detected a subtle movement of lips, revealing the observer was speaking Chinese.
"Xu Mo, what are you looking at?" All Might asked, noticing Xu Mo's distraction.
"Just a bit of curiosity," Xu Mo replied, shaking his head. He patted All Might on the shoulder and entered the adjacent classroom where the X-Men and new students awaited.
Xu Mo's attention remained on the Chinese observer, pondering the implications. His heightened senses and recent upgrades made him wary of potential threats. Though he felt no immediate malice, the odd feeling of being watched left him uneasy.
The mysterious presence and the unexpected twists of the day left Xu Mo with a nagging sense that something unusual was afoot.