Charles's voice echoed through the air with a calm, authoritative tone. "Eric, what are you doing here?"
Magneto, visibly embarrassed, spun around to see Charles Xavier and his entourage approaching. The tall, imposing figure in the wheelchair was Charles Xavier, flanked by Cyclops and Storm. The presence of the famed mutants was unmistakable, their calm demeanor a sharp contrast to Magneto's visible agitation.
Xu Mo observed Charles closely. He knew the leader of the mutants was no ordinary person. Charles's telepathic abilities were legendary, capable of influencing minds on a massive scale. With a brainwave enhancer, he could control or even modify thoughts globally. Fortunately, Charles was known for his restraint, but Xu Mo knew such powers were not to be underestimated.
Charles, with his characteristic calm, looked at Magneto and said, "Eric, it appears you're contemplating other plans."
The tension between Magneto and Charles was palpable. Magneto, an extremist, believed that mutants should dominate the world, while Professor X advocated for coexistence and harmony between humans and mutants. Their differing philosophies had often led to conflict.
Magneto, clearly frustrated and disheveled from his confrontation with Xu Mo, snapped, "Charles, why are you here?"
Charles, unfazed by Magneto's irritation, replied, "I'm not here to argue, Eric. I'm here to discuss cooperation."
He wheeled himself past Magneto and approached Xu Mo, extending a polite nod. "I came to see you because I couldn't arrange a meeting at your comic studio, so I thought it best to come in person."
Xu Mo raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Cooperation, you say? Very well, come in, and we can discuss it further."
With a gesture, Xu Mo caused the ice beneath his feet to melt away, revealing the red tank's escape route. The once intimidating Juggernaut retreated, moving behind Magneto with visible apprehension.
Professor X turned to Magneto, "Eric, join us. This is a critical moment for the future of all mutants. We need your assistance."
Magneto, conflicted, glanced at the back of Charles and the others. After a moment of hesitation and with Lorna Dane's help, he followed them into the villa.
Inside, Xu Mo, Magneto, and Professor X settled around a table. Cyclops and Storm remained outside, standing guard on the lawn.
Gali, with a look of dissatisfaction, scolded Xu Mo, "Why are you letting these old men in? They're just causing a commotion."
Gali, who seemed increasingly ravenous for energy foods, was preoccupied with snacks. Xu Mo had noticed her growing appetite lately, which was unusual.
Professor X, his gaze shifting to Gali, sensed the immense power radiating from her. Her energy field was formidable, comparable to that of the Phoenix Force. The potential danger she posed was not lost on him.
However, Professor X quickly refocused on the matter at hand. Gali's comment about bald heads brought a hint of embarrassment to Charles's usually composed demeanor.
Xu Mo, reclining on the sofa, addressed Charles with a serious tone. "You didn't come here just for a casual chat. What is it you want from me?"
Charles, speaking earnestly, responded, "Given the current situation with mutants, we hope to establish a strategic alliance with you."
Xu Mo chuckled, a touch of skepticism in his voice. "A strategic alliance? I'm just a comic artist."
Charles nodded, "As a friend of Saitama, you are more than just a comic artist. We mutants require the support of our allies and your influence through your comics."
Magneto, still agitated, sneered, "Charles, are you really suggesting that comics could change the plight of mutants? That's absurd."
Charles remained unperturbed. "Marvel Comics has a global reach and high sales. Your endorsement could significantly shift perceptions among the younger generation."
Xu Mo, considering the proposal, asked, "And what's in it for me? I've invested enough as it is. Is there some kind of compensation, perhaps?"
Charles, with a shrewd gaze, replied, "We offer a partnership where the X-Men will provide support and assistance within legal boundaries."
Magneto and Xu Mo exchanged glances, surprised by the offer. Charles was essentially proposing a mutual alliance with significant benefits.
Xu Mo nodded thoughtfully. "I see. If we're moving past mere comic promotion, this alliance could be valuable."
"Agreed," Xu Mo said, signaling his acceptance of the proposal. "Let's discuss the details and see how we can move forward."