Chapter 23 - 23

'.....'= Thoughts 

"....."= Conversations 

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"Is it okay if I pay a visit to the school now? I have nothing else to do," John questioned Xavier.

Xavier nodded. "Yes, that's fine. I can take you to the school now if you'd like," he replied. He understood that John might be eager to explore the new environment and make use of his time and maybe he would change his mind and join the school.

"Just a minute," John said and went to inform Bruce about that he was going out for a while.

After informing him and dressing up properly John followed Xavier through his car as they made their way to the school.

Reaching the school Xavier decided to show around John by himself and asked the rest of them to disperse.

As they walked through the grounds, John couldn't help but notice the vibrant colors of nature surrounding them. The grass was a lush green, the flowers blooming with life, and the air crisp and fresh.

As they approached the school building, John took in its size and grandeur. It was larger than he had expected, with multiple wings extending outwards. The architecture had a classic, stately feel to it, with tall windows and decorative details.

Xavier led John through the main entrance and into a large hallway. The walls were lined with lockers and bulletin boards, showcasing student artwork and announcements. The sound of laughter and conversation filled the air as students passed by, some giving curious glances to the newcomer.

Xavier pointed out various classrooms, the library, the gymnasium, and the cafeteria as they walked through the school. John was amazed by the variety of classes and resources available to the students. It seemed like a place where mutants could truly thrive.

They eventually reached Xavier's office, where he invited John to take a seat. "So, what do you think of the school so far?" Xavier asked, curious to hear John's impressions.

John looked around the room, taking in the assortment of books and files neatly organized on shelves. "It's... impressive," he said. "I didn't realize there would be so much here. It seems like a place where mutants can really grow and learn."

Xavier smiled. "That is precisely our mission," he said. "We strive to provide a safe and nurturing environment for young mutants, where they can learn to control their powers and discover their full potential."

"I can see that," John replied, feeling a mix of excitement and relief. "I appreciate you showing me around, Professor."

Xavier nodded, pleased with John's decision. "I believe it would be a wonderful opportunity for you," he said. "You'll have the chance to meet other mutants, learn from experienced teachers, and find a sense of community."

John just smiled without saying anything.

"If you have time, why don't you go and meet up with Jean. She will show you around the training facilities and introduce you to the students here," Xavier suggested.

"That sounds great," John said, grateful for the chance to get to know the place better before making his final decision. "I'll be happy to meet Jean and see the training facilities. Thank you, Professor."

Xavier smiled warmly. "You're welcome, John. I hope your time here will be rewarding and beneficial. Remember, the choice is ultimately yours, and we will support whatever decision you make."

With a renewed sense of excitement, John followed Xavier's directions to find Jean. He was eager to explore the school and check out the training facilities. Aside from making connections with the people here, another important thing that John wanted to do was check out the training facilities of Xavier's school, which were far more advanced than what John currently had.

John walked out of the school and onto the grounds where Xavier told him Jean would be.

John saw Jean sitting alone under a tree, gazing at the sky.

John approached Jean, who seemed to be lost in her thoughts. He cleared his throat and spoke up, "Hi, Jean. Mind if I join you?"

Jean turned to look at him, her green sparkling eyes meeting his. "Sure," she smiled.

"What were you thinking so deeply about?" John asked as he sat down beside her.

"Nothing interesting," she said, and changed the subject. "Isn't it peaceful here?" she asked.

"It certainly is," John said, while enjoying the cool breeze gently caressing his skin.

Jean nodded and sighed, "I love being out here alone. It's so calming."

"Yeah, it's a nice break from all the chaos at school," John agreed, his eyes scanning the greenery around them.

Jean nodded again, her gaze still fixed on the sky. "I find that being out here helps me connect with my thoughts and feelings. It's like nature has a way of grounding me and making everything seem more manageable."

'Guess she's trying to control her emotions and gain more control over her abilities,' John concluded.

John looked at Jean and said, "Sorry for bothering you then."

"No, it's good to have someone to talk to," Jean smiled.

"What about the other kids?" John asked.

"They're afraid of me and my freaky powers," Jean shrugged, not seeming to mind it much as she had likely faced the same problem since she was young.

"Are you trying to scare me so that I'll leave you alone?" John joked.

"No, not at all," Jean laughed. "I'm not trying to scare anyone away. I just think it's important for people to be aware of my abilities which would be a lot better than finding it afterwards," Her voice turned a bit sad at the end of her sentence.

"You seemed a bit peeved about the professor's abilities earlier," Jean continued. "My abilities are not that different from his. Telekinesis, telepathy, mind reading, etc."

"I wasn't peeved about it," John sincerely answered. "I just wanted to know if I have the power to resist it. Besides, it's not his fault that he has those abilities, and neither is yours," John assured.

Jean looked at John, her red hair dancing in the wind, trying to determine the credibility of his statement.

"Besides, you would know how strong I am, right? After all, you guys came to recruit me. I know it's not just about strength...but still you are not the only freak here," John smiled.

"I guess," Jean knew that there was a difference between her and John, that John seemed to be able to control his abilities, but she couldn't. However she didn't mention that and neither did John.

"I hope it's just us two weirdos. Let's not increase the number of people in the group," she lightly chuckled.

"Well, maybe except for your boyfriend," John smiled.

"Huh? What boyfriend? I don't have a boyfriend," she said, confused.

"The guy with the goggles earlier, I thought he was your boyfriend," John answered.

"Scott? No, he just joined the school a year ago. It was actually yesterday, the first time that we talked. Where did you get that idea, anyways?" Jean sighed.

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