Chapter 68.1 : S.H.I.E.L.D!!

In the twilight hours, the town where Grey's family resides bustled with activity as firefighters, police officers, insurance representatives, and numerous construction teams swarmed the area.

In the presence of various officials, many townspeople were visibly agitated, voicing their grievances about the events of the previous day and appealing for the authorities to take action on their behalf.

Their demands ranged from seeking retribution against the Mutants involved to requesting compensation for their losses.

Facing the ire of the townsfolk, the officials nodded empathetically, offering plausible responses to their concerns while also inquiring about pertinent details.

Before long, all gathered information was consolidated before a solemn figure standing in front of the villa.

Nick Fury, distinguished by his imposing stature, bald head, and the distinctive eyepatch covering one eye, spoke gravely, "So, it appears Charles was not among the last individuals to depart."

Beside him, Phil Coulson concurred, "Indeed."

"Based on eyewitness accounts and comparison data, the initial group to depart comprised Magneto, the deceased-turned-resurrected Jean Grey, Nightcrawler, Arclight, and Callisto."

"They proceeded to the town's entrance, encountered the defeated Mutant Juggernaut, and departed shortly thereafter."

"Subsequently, Storm and Wolverine emerged from the residence with an empty wheelchair, accompanied by a dark-haired teenager, before departing as well."

"A black haired boy," Nick noted, furrowing his brow. "The Juggernaut, is documented to possess immense strength, capable of collapsing buildings and withstanding tank armor-piercing shells."

"In light of various data points, his strength surpasses that of most Mutants, yet he was defeated by a black-haired boy."

"Who is this individual? When did such a formidable Mutant surface within the Mutant Academy?"

Phil responded solemnly, "This individual is West Carl. He joined the X-Men a week ago. When Charles reported to the Ministry of Defense, I took the liberty of reviewing his dossier."

"Originally hailing from a Chinese family in Mexico, Carl underwent Awakening over a month ago."

"Last week, he participated in the mission to dismantle the Chris Institute in Coro City, Mexico, and subsequently received an invitation from Charles to join the X-Men."

"His registered primary ability falls within the realm of enhanced physical prowess, with a noted emphasis on strength and considerable speed."

"His auxiliary ability, Energy Rage, enables him to channel body energy into a frenzied state, thereby enhancing specific physical attributes."

"However, based on his performance during the recent altercation, it is evident that he can directly confront the Juggernaut, exhibiting power estimated to exceed one thousand tons."

"His velocity is such that ordinary observers struggle to perceive his movements, with data analysts projecting his speed to reach 200 meters per second."

"Conclusively, he merits an Alpha-level designation, characterized by an exceptional degree of prowess within the Mutant community."

Nick Fury's lone eye narrowed suddenly. "Is it another high-level Alpha Mutant?"

Phil Coulson nodded gravely. "Yes, the power of this individual is truly formidable, surpassing even that of Cyclops and Storm in the X-Men."

Nick waved a dismissive hand. "Let's table the term 'threat' for now. They are, after all, X-Men."

"As long as they haven't turned against humanity and joined the rebellious Mutants, they're on our side."

With a pause, Nick continued, "But I didn't anticipate Charles meeting his end here."

Phil sighed in agreement. "Indeed. Who would have thought that the Mutant who once struck fear into the world would perish at the hands of his own students?"

"As overseers of S.H.I.E.L.D., under Director Alphonso Mackenzie's leadership, and as individuals with super-abilities, we are privy to countless secrets and intel, including that concerning Mutants."

At this juncture, Phil spoke with solemnity. "Director, based on current intel, Cyclops sustained serious injuries in an accident a few days ago and remains in a coma. And now, Charles is gone."

"The X-Men are at their weakest, possibly unable to match the Mutant Brotherhood."

"Given Magneto's pursuit of the Worthington Lab's antidote, a sizable number of Mutants have gathered, biding their time."

"Shall we intervene next?"

Nick nodded thoughtfully. "Logically, with Charles gone, the previous agreement becomes null, allowing our intervention."

"But knowing Charles, he wouldn't have met his demise so easily."

After a moment of silence, Nick continued, "However, Phil, your concerns are valid. Charles' death could spell the downfall of the X-Men."

"We must prepare further. Upon your return, inform Trask Industries to ready themselves."

"If matters escalate, Sentinel will be deployed preemptively. Let's see the fruits of their years of research."

"Agreed."

"Also, keep an eye on that Mutant called Carl."

"Understood."

The following day, a grand funeral was held behind the Mutant school in honor of Professor X.

During the service, Storm delivered a heartfelt eulogy, commemorating the professor's legacy and his unwavering commitment to Mutants over the years.

Even after the memorial concluded, many lingered, unwilling to depart.

On the rooftop of the five-story dormitory building, beneath the sun's rays, Carl stood at the edge, arms crossed, silently observing the grieving students.

Perhaps Professor X never imagined the extent to which his passing, as a mental pillar, would impact these Mutant students.

However, unlike the other students, Carl felt no sadness in his heart upon learning that the professor may not have died, or at least had a high probability of survival.

His focus was fixed on the system page displayed at the bottom of his vision.