Early in the morning, in the dining hall.
Carl ordered a bun, two hot dogs, and a cup of coffee, then made his way to the corner and took a seat.
There, Clarice was already waiting for him.
The brunette girl today sported a blue T-shirt, gray jeans, and the same pair of white flat shoes, giving off a simple and fresh vibe.
As soon as Carl settled down, Clarice whispered, "Carl, weren't you injured last night?"
She happened to be present when Scott invited Carl yesterday, making her one of the few students aware of Carl's involvement in the mission.
Feeling touched by the girl's concern, Carl couldn't help but smile to himself, "I'm quite sturdy, how could I get injured?"
"It's a relief if you're not hurt," Clarice sighed in relief.
After a few days of getting to know each other, the girl had become more cheerful, shedding the loneliness and inferiority complex she once carried.
While having breakfast, Carl noticed that the girl's clothes seemed a bit tight, with the cuffs too short, not fitting her well, and his eyes flickered with concern.
After breakfast, Carl was summoned by Scott as the students headed to the classroom.
Underground base, conference room.
At the head of the table sat Professor X, accompanied by Cyclops, Iceman, Colossus, and Shadowcat on the left.
On the right side were Storm, Rogue, Wolverine, and then Carl.
Nearly all the X-Men in the school were present at this meeting.
"Last night's operation was a success. We managed to dismantle Chris' laboratory and rescue nine mutant children, a commendable achievement," Professor X announced.
"In his debut mission, Carl displayed exceptional bravery and commitment to protecting his fellow mutants," Professor X continued, casting a gentle gaze towards Carl. "Thus, I propose that we extend an invitation to Carl to join the X-Men as a permanent member. What are your thoughts on this?"
After Professor X finished speaking, aside from Cyclops, who was already aware of the proposal, surprise registered on the faces of the others.
Particularly Anna and the rest, who had thought it was surprising enough for Carl to partake in the previous night's mission, found it even more unexpected for the professor to offer him a permanent position today.
Wolverine paused for a moment before speaking, "Carl performed admirably last night, and I see no issue with the professor's suggestion."
"However, considering Carl's young age, I believe he should prioritize his studies even if he joins the X-Men. It's advisable for him not to engage in anything beyond his assigned tasks. After all, life is about more than just battles."
Professor X smiled faintly, his gaze gentle yet discerning as he addressed the assembly. "Undoubtedly, since Carl joined, his focus on learning has been commendable, much like Kitty and the others. They are, after all, still children."
"I have no objections."
"Nor do I."
Cyclops and Storm voiced their agreement, followed by Shadowcat and Colossus.
Following the skirmish of the previous night, they had all witnessed Carl's valiant charge to the forefront when faced with the enemy. Indeed, who wouldn't appreciate such camaraderie?
As for Anna and Iceman, who had been absent from the mission, nodded in agreement with the majority, signaling their neutrality.
Observing this, Professor X turned his attention to Carl with a gentle smile, his voice calm and inviting. "So, Carl, would you be willing to join the X-Men?"
Carl hesitated momentarily, his gratitude evident. "Thank you for considering me. I'm honored by your offer. However, what I did last night was merely my duty."
"While I'm genuinely enthusiastic about joining the X-Men, I'm concerned that I may not be mature enough to shoulder such responsibilities."
With sincerity, Carl looked to Professor X for guidance. "Professor, could you enlighten me on the responsibilities that come with joining the X-Men? What would be expected of me?"
At that moment, Carl wrestled with internal conflict. He deliberated on whether to accept the offer, knowing it would entail greater responsibilities, potentially disrupting his plans for a quiet, carefree existence.
Professor X's smile remained warm as he responded, "The mission of the X-Men is straightforward: to protect mutants and humans alike, and to address instances where mutants misuse their abilities for criminal purposes."
"In addition to these responsibilities, there are certain perks akin to those of law enforcement agencies."
"For instance, visa-free access to friendly nations, access to our school facilities, and clearance to certain confidential information."
"Furthermore, there's a basic monthly salary of $10,000, along with a $100,000 reward for each successful mission."
"Wait, Professor, X-Men members receive payment?" Carl's surprise was palpable.
In this world, economic and historical trends mirrored those of Carl's former life. One US dollar equated to roughly eight RMB.
Thus, the $10,000 monthly salary equated to approximately 80,000 RMB. Additionally, the $100,000 mission reward translated to 800,000 RMB. If one completed a mission monthly, it amounted to nearly a million RMB in monthly income.
Carl gasped in realization.
As the most powerful telepath, Professor X, though refraining from intruding into his subordinates' minds, keenly perceived Carl's fluctuating emotions.
A knowing smile graced Professor X's lips. "Indeed, there is compensation. While our primary aim is global peacekeeping, we cannot let our members go hungry."
"For instance, for your efforts in last night's mission, Carl, you're entitled to a $100,000 reward."
One hundred thousand dollars? If I had known there was that much money involved, I might have considered taking on the mission without system release task. Suddenly, Carl found himself enthusiastic about joining the ranks of the X-Men.
There's just no denying it—wealth opens doors that would otherwise remain firmly shut.
In every world, money plays an indispensable role.
Just take a glance at Batman and Iron Man, and you'll understand. They both epitomize the ability to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with heroes and even gods, all thanks to their wealth and resources.
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