Chapter 58 : Training Or ....

In the midst of the air, just as Sentinel released its bullet, Carl crashed through the rooftop, a streak of darkness trailing across the sky.

Before Sentinel could even pivot, Carl's fist, ablaze with golden light, surged forward.

Boom!

Under the sheer force of Carl's resolute blow, Sentinel's left arm shattered, its massive frame hurtling forcefully to the ground.

The earth ruptured beneath, Shockwaves rippling out, gusts of wind propelling outward over ten meters.

As the grounded automaton settled, Carl descended from above, landing a ruthless kick onto its right arm.

Boom!

Even Sentinel's formidable metal appendage buckled under the weight of the impact.

Remarkably, Carl's mastery over power was evident; despite the forceful strike, his footwear remained intact.

This detail held immense significance.

Whoosh!

Carl vanished in an instant, a series of fleeting images trailing behind him. His hands, like talons, seized Sentinel's left leg, his arm strength exploding forth.

Boom!

Sentinel's left leg tore forcibly from its body, threads of fire and metallic clatter following its detachment.

Now for its right leg.

Hum!

At that very moment, Sentinel, finally reacting, bathed its surroundings in a crimson glow, preparing to retaliate with an energy beam.

Yet, in the blink of an eye, a pale golden fist materialized beside its head, connecting with a resounding impact.

Boom!

Hundreds of tons of force surged forth, Sentinel's head erupting into a flurry of sparks, chunks of metal hurling through the air to collide violently with distant structures.

Smoke and flames billowed in the aftermath.

In front of Carl, the Sentinel appeared feeble, almost vulnerable.

Before long, Carl dismantled the Sentinel, bringing the battle to a halt.

The aftermath left only ruins, shattered ground, and smoldering flames, testifying to the recent clash.

The tension dissipated.

Storm nodded approvingly. "Despite the brevity of this exercise, everyone exhibited commendable performance, working in unison to dispatch the enemy."

Iceman, standing by the decapitated robot, remarked, "This automaton was formidable indeed. Armed with modern weaponry and Mutant abilities."

"Fortunately, they're merely training constructs devised by the Professor," he added.

Shadowcat and Anna shared a rueful smile. "Indeed. Were humanity to pursue such technology, it would spell disaster for Mutants."

Carl remained silent, his gaze flickering with contemplation, a hint of modesty in his demeanor.

After the training session, the group exited the training area.

In the well-lit corridor, Kitty approached Carl, giving his shoulder an encouraging pat. "Carl, your strength continues to grow. Taking down that robot single-handedly was impressive."

Carl modestly responded, "It was nothing. You all performed admirably too."

Anna interjected, shaking her head. "Carl, there's no need for modesty. Your prowess is evident. I, on the other hand, contributed little."

She wore a somber expression.

Anna possessed the ability to briefly replicate other Mutants' powers through touch, albeit at significant risk to the original wielder.

Though she had learned to control it to some extent over the years, she often found herself unable to utilize her combat potential.

"Sister Anna, don't dwell on it too much," Kitty reassured, noticing Anna's distress. "As the Professor says, every Ability has its purpose. It's all about how one utilizes it."

Anna forced a smile in response to Kitty's words.

Meanwhile, Wolverine and Storm, leading the way, engaged in conversation. Wolverine seemed discontent. "I fail to see the point of this training," he grumbled.

"Are you suggesting that we keep these kids on edge, ready for war at any moment?"

Storm furrowed her brow slightly. "Logan, this is merely routine training."

"No, I don't believe it's just routine," Logan retorted coldly. "I know Charles well enough to understand that he doesn't engage in frivolous activities."

"True, but there's no harm in them being vigilant," Storm responded casually. "Let's not forget, Logan, it's only been a week since we took down Chris Labs, and our situation isn't as stable as we'd hoped."

"You're itching for a fight, aren't you?"

"Scott's been honing the kids, preparing them for combat, and now Charles is doing the same for the X-Men," Logan expressed his discontent.

Having endured countless battles and suffered the loss of many loved ones, Logan abhorred the very notion of war. He didn't want this mutant school to become another battleground.

Storm's gaze turned icy in response to Logan's complaints. "I don't crave conflict, but many refuse to grant us the chance for peace."

Logan glanced at her. "When you're armed like a porcupine, people tend to think twice about provoking you."

In the end, the two went their separate ways.

Logan harbored no ill will towards Professor X, but he was apprehensive about some of his recent radical decisions, fearing they might drag the school into another war.

Despite his brutal past and the countless lives he'd taken over the years, Wolverine still retained a sense of compassion.

"Big brother!"

As Carl emerged from the underground base and entered the classroom building, a young girl dashed out and grabbed onto his pants, bringing him to a halt.

In the scene, a young girl with blonde hair, approximately seven years old, exuded undeniable cuteness despite a slightly mischievous expression on her face. She clung tightly to Carl's thigh.

Meanwhile, the professor, seated in a wheelchair, approached from behind, speaking in a gentle tone. "Carl, meet Vera Cady. You should remember her."

Kitty, lingering at the back, hesitated momentarily before exclaiming, "It's Cady! Has she recovered so quickly?"

The professor's smile was warm as he responded, "Cady's injuries were the least severe, so her recovery is expected to be swift."

"Sister, you're okay too."

"Thank you, Uncle Bearded."

"And the white-haired sister..."

The little girl, displaying remarkable manners, expressed gratitude to everyone with her wide eyes.

Confronted with such a well-mannered child, Wolverine couldn't help but soften, his gaze reflecting a tender affection.

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