Emma sat nervously on the couch with a phone in her hand. She glanced at Ben sitting across from her. "Are you sure about this?"
Ben nodded. "Absolutely. We're just calling to see if they're open to visitors."
Emma took a deep breath. "Okay. Here goes."
She dialed the number they had found online for the Xavier Institute for Gifted Youngsters. After a few rings, a calm, warm voice answered.
"Hello, you've reached the Xavier Institute. This is Ororo Munroe speaking. How can I assist you?"
Emma hesitated for just a moment before responding. "Hi, um… my name is Emma Frost, and I… I'm calling to ask about arranging an appointment. I'd like to learn more about your school."
"Of course, Emma," Ororo replied, her tone gentle and professional. "Are you calling on behalf of a student, or would you be the one seeking enrollment information?"
Emma swallowed and straightened up. "It's for me. I have, um… abilities. And I've heard about the institute and its focus on helping people like me learn to control them."
Ororo's voice brightened slightly as though she were smiling. "You've called the right place, Emma. We specialize in helping people understand their gifts. When would you be available to visit the school?"
Emma glanced at Ben, who mouthed Ask about tomorrow. She nodded and spoke into the phone. "Would tomorrow work? I'd really like to see the school in person and meet with someone to discuss everything."
"Tomorrow should be fine," Ororo said after a brief pause. "I'll arrange for a meeting with Professor Xavier. Does late morning or early afternoon work better for you?"
Emma looked at Ben, who gave her a thumbs-up for either option. "Early afternoon would be great," Emma said.
"Perfect. I'll schedule you for a 1:00 PM appointment," Ororo said smoothly. "When you arrive, you'll find the gates to the estate open. Just drive through and park near the main building. Someone will greet you and show you to the Professor's office."
"Thank you so much," Emma said, relief clear in her voice. "I really appreciate it."
"It's our pleasure, Emma. We look forward to meeting you," Ororo said warmly. "Is there anything else I can help you with today?"
Emma hesitated, then added, "I'll… I'll bring a friend if that's okay. He's been really supportive through all of this."
"Of course. We understand that support is important, and we welcome those who are willing to stand by us. Friends and family are welcome to accompany you," Ororo reassured her. "We'll see you both tomorrow."
"Thank you, Miss Munroe. I appreciate it. Really."" Emma said again, her voice soft but sincere.
"It's no trouble at all, Emma," Ororo replied. "We look forward to meeting you both. Have a good evening."
As she hung up, she let out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding. "Well, that's done," she said, glancing at Ben.
He grinned. "See? That wasn't so bad."
Emma rolled her eyes, but a small smile tugged at her lips. "Yeah, yeah."
The Next Day
Ben drove their car down the country road. Emma sat in the passenger seat, as she stared out the window.
"You okay over there?" Ben asked.
Emma sighed and folded her arms, leaning back into her seat. "I suppose it makes sense that a place that helps mutants would be outside the city. Less chance of accidents and facing angry citizens."
Ben gave her a reassuring smile. "Keeping away from those protestors would be for the best. In any case, you're going to learn more about yourself and maybe even find some people who get it. That's huge."
Emma's expression softened slightly. "Yeah, I know. It's just… I don't know what to expect. What if it's all a bit too much?"
Ben shrugged. "Then we bail. But something tells me you're going to do just fine."
Emma chuckled. "I hope you're right."
The GPS chimed. Ben slowed the car as the trees opened up to reveal a grand iron gate. It was wide open, leading to a sprawling estate. The words Xavier Institute for Gifted Youngsters were engraved on a brass plaque nearby.
"Wow." Emma took in the sight. "This place is… a lot bigger than I imagined."
"Yeah, not exactly a run-of-the-mill school," Ben said with a low whistle. "Looks more like a mansion."
He drove through the gates and followed the curved driveway up to the main building, where a few other cars were parked. Ben pulled into a spot and turned off the engine. He glanced over at Emma, who was staring out the windshield with a mix of awe and nerves.
"Hey," Ben said, his voice soft. "You ready?"
Emma took a deep breath, then nodded. "Yeah. Let's do this."
The two of them stepped out of the car, the crunch of gravel under their shoes as they made their way to the large front doors. Before they could knock, the door opened, and a woman with striking white hair and a serene demeanor greeted them.
"Emma Frost and Ben Tennyson, I presume?" the woman said, her voice warm and welcoming.
Emma nodded, her voice steady despite her nerves. "That's us. And you must be…"
"Ororo Munroe," the woman said with a kind smile. "Welcome to the Xavier Institute. We've been expecting you."
Ben offered a polite nod. "Nice to meet you."
"Likewise," Ororo said. "Professor Xavier is waiting for you in his office."
Before Ororo could lead Ben and Emma into the mansion, the crunch of gravel announced the arrival of a taxi cab pulling into the circular driveway. She turned, her expression shifting from calm to curious. She hadn't been expecting another visitor today.
The cab door opened, and an unknown blonde man and a young girl stepped from the back. The tall and broad-shouldered man adjusted his knapsack while the girl, who couldn't have been more than 10 or 11, clutched a small backpack.
"Thanks for the ride," the man said to the driver, his tone friendly but firm. "I know it's outside of the city."
The driver waved it off. "No problem, my guy. Good luck."
The man gave a small wave before turning to the mansion. He spotted Ororo approaching and offered a polite smile.
Ororo tilted her head slightly, her calm curiosity growing. "Good afternoon. What brings you to the estate?"
"Hello there, ma'am," the man replied, pulling a small card from his pocket and glancing at it. "Is this the… Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters?"
"It is," Ororo confirmed, her eyes narrowing slightly in thought. "May I ask who referred you to us, Mr.…?"
"Steve," he said, extending a hand. "Name's Steve. And this is Laura."
The young girl beside him gave a small wave. "Hello," she said softly, her tone guarded but polite.
Steve continued, his voice steady. "James—sorry, I mean, Logan—referred us. He said you help people who have… gifts."
Ororo's eyes widened ever so slightly at the mention of Logan. He had left the estate abruptly a few weeks ago without explanation. Whatever had drawn him away seemed to have led him to Steve and Laura. "Yes, of course," she said smoothly, regaining her composure. "You're in the right place." She gestured toward Ben and Emma. "It seems you aren't alone in seeking to learn about our mission here."
Steve nodded and walked over to Ben and Emma, Laura sticking close by his side. He offered his hand. "Steve."
Ben met the handshake. "Ben."
Emma offered a polite nod. "Emma."
Laura lingered by Steve, her small hand clutching the strap of her backpack. After a moment, she gave a shy introduction. "Laura."
Emma crouched slightly to meet her at eye level, her smile warm. "Hello there, Laura. Are you… gifted?"
Laura hesitated, glancing up at Steve, who gave her a reassuring nod. She turned back to Emma and gave a small, almost reluctant nod. "Yes."
Emma's smile grew, her voice soft and encouraging. "That's wonderful." She projected a gentle giggle into Laura's mind, just enough to make the girl's lips twitch upward in the hint of a smile. "Us too."
Laura tilted her head, her eyes glinting with a mix of curiosity and tentative trust. "You are?"
Emma nodded, glancing back at Ben. "All of us."
Steve watched the exchange with quiet approval before turning to Ororo. "Logan said you'd be able to help Laura. That she'd be safe here."
Ororo's expression softened. "That's exactly what we're here for. You've come to the right place. If you'll all follow me, I'll take you to meet Professor Xavier. I'm sure he'll want to hear all of your stories."
The group nodded and stepped behind her.
Ororo led them down the decorated hallways of the Xavier Institute. As they walked, Emma and Ben kept close to one another, both observing their surroundings with keen interest. Steve stayed just behind them, with Laura clinging to his side, her wide eyes darting around to take everything in.
The first person they passed was a tall man wearing ruby-colored glasses. He gave Ororo a polite nod as they crossed paths. Ben's gaze lingered momentarily, curious about the distinctive eyewear, but he said nothing.
Emma tilted her head slightly as if trying to sense something. "He seems… composed," she murmured.
Ororo glanced at her with a small smile but didn't comment, continuing down the hall.
A little further along, they saw a young man and woman walking side by side. They gave the group a passing glance before returning to their discussion.
"Just regular people," Ben remarked.
"That's the point," Ororo said gently. "We are just like anyone else."
As they rounded another corner, they encountered a man with dark blue hair sitting on a bench. He was casually eating a bag of chips. He offered a quick wave with one hand, still holding the bag in the other.
Ben couldn't help but smirk. "Okay, that's not something you see every day."
Emma chuckled softly, her earlier tension easing slightly. "You're not wrong."
Ororo stopped briefly, acknowledging the blue-haired man with a nod. "Good afternoon."
"Afternoon," he replied, crunching on another chip.
Laura tugged lightly on Steve's sleeve, her voice quiet. "They're… like me?"
Steve crouched slightly to meet her gaze, his tone gentle. "Yeah, kiddo. Just like you."
Laura seemed to process this, her eyes lingering on each person they passed. Despite her natural wariness, there was a flicker of something in her expression—maybe hope.
As the group continued, Ororo glanced back at them. "Everyone here has a story. A past that brought them to this place. Some came looking for guidance, others for refuge, and some simply to understand who they are."
Steve nodded thoughtfully. "Logan mentioned this place was special. I can see why now."
They finally arrived at a large wooden door at the end of the hallway. Ororo placed her hand on the doorknob and turned to the group with a warm smile. "Professor Xavier is inside. He's eager to meet all of you."
She opened the door, gesturing for them to step inside. The room had bookshelves lining the walls and a large desk at the center. Seated behind the desk was a bald man in a wheelchair.
"Welcome," Professor Xavier said, his voice warm and inviting. "Please, come in. We have much to discuss."
The group stepped into Professor Xavier's office and its warm atmosphere.
Professor Xavier greeted them. "Emma Frost. I've been expecting you and your friend. It's a pleasure to meet you both."
Ben nodded respectfully. "Thanks for having us."
Emma smiled politely, her nerves easing slightly under Xavier's calm presence. "We appreciate you taking the time."
Xavier's gaze shifted to Steve and Laura, curious. "However, it seems we have unexpected guests as well." He gestured toward the pair. "If both parties feel comfortable, I'd be happy to introduce my school and our mission to the group as a whole."
Steve glanced down at Laura. "What do you think, kiddo?"
Laura hesitated, her fingers curling slightly at her sides as she glanced at Emma. Emma caught her gaze and smiled warmly, crouching slightly to be at her level.
"I don't mind sharing my appointment with you," Emma said gently.
Laura's shoulders relaxed just a little. She rubbed the back of her neck, her voice quiet. "Okay…"
"Splendid," Xavier said, his tone pleased. He wheeled out from behind his desk, gesturing for everyone to sit in the chairs arranged in the room. "Allow me to explain the purpose of this school."
The group settled in, curious. Xavier folded his hands neatly in his lap, his voice steady and sincere as he spoke.
"I founded this Institution years ago to provide a sanctuary for people born with extraordinary abilities, commonly called mutants. Here, we aim to teach control and the ethical use of these gifts."
Ben hummed in approval. "That's something I can get behind for a superpower school."
Xavier smiled. "Our ultimate goal is fostering mutual respect and coexistence with humanity as a whole."
Emma leaned forward. "So it's both a school and a social movement?"
"Precisely," Xavier nodded. "We strive to help students embrace who they are, not as something to fear or hide, but as a part of their unique identity."
Ben crossed his arms, his expression thoughtful. "Sounds like you're working against a lot of prejudice. I've seen how bad it can get."
Xavier's expression grew somber. "Indeed, the path is not easy. But change rarely is. We believe education, empathy, and understanding are the keys to progress."
Steve exchanged a glance with Laura, who seemed to absorb every word. He turned back to Xavier. "Logan said this place helps people like Laura. That it's safe here."
Xavier met Steve's gaze with a calm sincerity. "He spoke the truth. Laura, you would be welcome here should you choose to stay."
Laura's gaze moved between Xavier and Steve. Her expression softened slightly yet still unsure.
Xavier turned his gaze back to the group. "Now, are there any questions before we proceed? I'm here to help in any way I can."
After some hesitation, Emma finally spoke up again. "Professor… I wanted to ask you about something from years ago. You visited my home, didn't you?"
Xavier turned his wheelchair slightly to face her, his expression soft and understanding. "Yes, I did," he said with a gentle nod. "I detected your presence when your abilities first began to manifest. You were quite powerful, even then."
Emma blinked, surprised by the directness. "You… you knew? How?"
"I'm telepathic as well," Xavier said, his voice calm and steady. "I could sense the strength of your mind. I paid your father a visit alongside my colleague, Dr. Moira MacTaggart, hoping to invite you to our school."
Emma's expression darkened slightly, and she looked away. "Neither he nor I were interested at the time."
Xavier nodded in understanding. "I remember. Your father was… resistant to the idea, and you were understandably overwhelmed."
Emma exhaled softly. "I t all happened so fast. I didn't understand why everything was happening or what was wrong with me. I hurt people..."
"It was an accident, Miss Frost. There was nothing wrong with you," Xavier assured her. "What you felt is normal for someone developing their powers for the first time. It can be confusing, even frightening. There's no shame in that."
Emma's lips quirked into a faint smile. "A part of me wonders what would've happened if I had accepted your invitation back then."
Ben shruggeed. "You and I would have probably met under much different circumstances."
Xavier gestured around him. "It's not too late, Emma. If you're interested, you can still participate."
Emma shook her head. "It's tempting, but I'm in university. I have a plan, and I want to see it through."
Xavier nodded. "There's nothing wrong with that."
Emma looked up at him, her voice softer now. "Still… I wanted to come here to learn more. Even if I won't be living here, it's good to know there's a place like this. A place that can help."
Ben, who had been quietly listening, chimed in. "I don't suppose remote counseling sessions are possible?"
Xavier chuckled. "Of course. The Xavier Institute is a resource for all, in person or from afar."
Emma smiled. "That's good to know. Thank you, Professor."
Xavier gave a kind nod. "The door is always open, Emma. Whenever you're ready."
Professor Xavier then wheeled forward, gesturing for the group and Ororo to follow him. "Now, if you'll allow me, I'd like to show you more of the Xavier Institute. This is not only a school but also a home for many."
The group followed behind. Walking beside Xavier, Ororo Munroe spoke softly to Laura, her voice calm and inviting. Emma stayed close to Ben as they moved through the hallways.
"We'll start with the heart of the mansion." Xavier led them to a common area. "This is where students often gather to relax or study."
The room had plush furniture, bookshelves, and a large window overlooking the grounds. A group of students were seated together, chatting. They glanced at the newcomers with polite curiosity but quickly returned to their conversations.
"Feels like any other school lounge," Ben remarked. "I don't suppose you guys have a cafeteria or something."
Xavier chuckled. "I am proud to say we have slightly higher food service quality at the Xavier institute. But overall, we want to provide and authentic experience just like any other educational institution." He then led them down a hallway filled with framed photographs and portraits. "These are snapshots of the many lives that this school has touched. Our alumni have achieved remarkable things in the world and their journeys."
Emma stopped briefly, examining one of the photographs. It depicted a young man with ruby-colored glasses standing beside a taller man with a confident smile.
"That's Scott Summers," Xavier said with pride. "One of our first students. He now leads many of our training exercises."
The next area they were led to had a state-of-the-art gymnasium. Compared to a standard gym on the street, it was outfitted with high-tech equipment and open spaces. A dark skinned young man with a bione spike protruding from his shoulder was was in the middle of a workout, pausing to wave at the group before returning to his routine.
"This is our training facility," Xavier explained. "Here, students learn to hone their abilities in a controlled environment."
Steve observed the gym, picking out the subtle reinforcements in the walls and equipment.
Ororo elaborated. "Our students' abilities vary greatly. The training rooms are designed to adapt to those needs."
Professor Xavier guided the group to an observation window at one wall of the room.
"This," Xavier began with a note of pride in his voice, "is our training facility—commonly referred to as the Danger Room."
Ben stopped mid-step, his brows lifting slightly. He glanced at Xavier, then back at the door. "Danger Room?" he repeated, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth.
Xavier nodded as the door slid open, revealing a seemingly blank room.
"Here, we are able to simulate various scenarios."
Ben's mind snagged on a specific detail. "I don't suppose you're familiar with Tony Stark?"
Xavier smiled. "I am, in fact. Mr. Stark and I have collaborated on several occasions. His expertise was invaluable in the early stages of development regarding the custom equipment used here."
Ben chuckled. "That tracks. This setup reminds me of something he's got back at Avengers Mansion. He calls it the Danger Zone—because, of course, he does. Subtlety isn't exactly his strong suit."
Emma raised an eyebrow, looking between Ben and Xavier. "Wait, are you saying Tony Stark helped design this?"
"In part, yes," Xavier confirmed. "Though much of the room's functionality results from our research and development, Mr. Stark's contributions were indispensable."
Ben smirked, muttering, "Man, that guy's got his fingerprints on everything."
Steve stepped closer to the edge of the room. "Impressive. I've seen my fair share of training setups, but this… this is something else." He hummed in thought at the mention of Tony.
Laura's gaze darted around the room. "So, you mostly fight in here?"
Xavier turned to her. "In a manner of speaking. The Danger Room is mostly used for power testing and combat training."
Laura frowned. "My old home was similar... It was... cold."
Steve patted the girl on the should. "Everything is optional, yes?"
"Of course." Xavier placed a hand on his heart. "
The group entered the training room, its sleek, high-tech design glinting under the bright lights. Advanced equipment, from holographic simulators to heavy-duty exercise machines, filled the space.
Steve's eyes landed on a bench press setup that appeared far more advanced than anything he'd seen, even in modern gyms. He approached it, intrigued.
Turning to Professor Xavier, Steve gestured to the machine. "Mind if I give this a try?"
Xavier shook his head. "Not at all. Be my guest."
Steve settled onto the bench and began with a modest 100 kilograms. The group watched as he pressed the weight easily, completing a set of 10 reps without breaking a sweat.
He stood up, looking around. "Can we add more weight?"
Ororo raised an eyebrow but obliged, adjusting the hydralic load. Steve lay back down, this time pressing 150 kilograms with the same ease.
Another set. More weight.
By the tenth adjustment, every eye in the room was locked on him. The machine was now stacked with an unbelievable amount of weight. The room was silent except for the metal clinking and Steve's controlled breathing.
Xavier finally broke the silence, his voice calm but tinged with amazement. "Steve, you broke the previous record for the bench press a while ago. At this point, you are pressing the equivalent of most cars."
Steve set the bar down with a metallic clang and sat up, rolling his shoulders. "To be honest," he said with a small grin, "I feel like I could do more."
Ben blinked, still processing what he had just witnessed. "Steve… are you a mutant too?"
Steve chuckled, shaking his head. "If only. Maybe then they'd have let me into the army a little easier."
Emma tilted her head, curiosity clear in her gaze. "What do you mean?"
Steve leaned back slightly, resting his hands on his knees. "If Logan is friends with you all, maybe I can be too. But I realize I haven't told you my full name yet, have I?"
Xavier raised an eyebrow, his expression intrigued. "No, you haven't. Who are you, Steve?"
Steve's demeanor shifted slightly, a quiet pride settling in his voice. "The world will soon know again, but… my name is Steve Rogers. Rank: Captain." He reached into his knapsack, pulling out something round and metallic.
The group collectively leaned forward as he revealed his iconic shield, its vibranium surface gleaming under the lights.
Ben's eyes widened in recognition. "You're Captain America."
#
AN: Special thanks to Seana, Jebest4781, Charles, vividlearner744, OmegaDelta, Henry Stickman, fearmegu, Kitsune Robyn, SonicSonicsSonic, Dragon lord, Shooter1344, Alexander, Red Rasher, Ajax Roranson, trey, Asaf, Legion, DJC, $hane-08, Daniel, Alex, nighnight, Camden, decimator, Roswell, SpeX Smoking_ash12, Giorgie Baramidze, Kyan Christian, Professor Xivass, AF360!
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