Professor Charles Xavier, now taken by Apocalypse, slowly regained consciousness. As his senses sharpened, he realized he was in a dimly lit living room. The imposing figure of Apocalypse and the young boy, Todd, were also present.
Clutching his head, Xavier murmured, "Such incredible power…"
The moment Apocalypse had controlled him, Xavier had felt the overwhelming force that made resistance impossible.
"What have you done to me?" Xavier demanded.
Instinctively, Xavier attempted to use his telepathic abilities but failed. He discovered that his psychic powers were rendered ineffective.
Apocalypse glanced down at Xavier, explaining, "I can block your intrusion into others' minds. This is a gift I've acquired through millennia of reincarnation…"
He paused, admiring Xavier. "However, the ability to perceive and control others' thoughts is your gift."
Apocalypse was fascinated and envious of Xavier's ability to connect with and control minds on such a vast scale. This was precisely the ability he lacked.
With this power, Apocalypse could control the entire world, and unlike using Cerebro, Xavier's innate ability could perfectly suit his needs. Apocalypse was skilled at enhancing others' powers, and this ability was no exception.
Looking down at Xavier, Apocalypse spoke with cold authority, "You will convey my message to everyone in the world. Tell them that Apocalypse has returned, and this world will turn to ruin!"
"This is my punishment for humanity, for En Sabah Nur!"
His voice was chilling, showing no mercy for the humans who had once betrayed him.
Apocalypse crouched beside Xavier, his gaze piercing. "Now, deliver my message."
Xavier frowned, reluctant but knowing he had no choice. "Even if I were willing, I can't simultaneously reach so many minds without Cerebro."
Apocalypse shook his head, finding the situation amusing. "You won't need any machines to enhance your ability. I can help you."
Xavier was taken aback by this offer.
Suddenly, Apocalypse's eyes turned white, signaling the activation of his power. At that moment, Xavier felt a surge of energy flow into him, and his psychic abilities were unleashed to an unprecedented strength.
He had never felt so powerful, capable of linking with every mind on the planet with ease. However, knowing that Apocalypse could sever this enhancement at any moment, Xavier had no choice but to comply.
He also hoped that, by broadcasting the message, he could subtly alert others to Apocalypse's presence and prepare for resistance.
In the next instant, with Xavier's cooperation, Apocalypse's words were broadcasted into the minds of everyone on Earth.
"Listen, everyone in the world…"
As Xavier's voice echoed, people everywhere froze momentarily, glancing around in disbelief.
"What's happening?"
"Who is speaking?"
Because the communication was telepathic, there were no barriers, allowing everyone to hear Xavier's message, even those who were deaf.
At S.H.I.E.L.D., Director Nick Fury's expression grew increasingly grave. In Stark Tower, Tony Stark halted his work on the new suit.
Xavier's voice continued to reverberate around the world.
"This is my warning to each and every one of you, humans and mutants alike."
"You have lost your way, but I have returned, and the final judgment is imminent."
"All the buildings and skyscrapers you've erected will crumble, and a new era will begin…"
"There is no choice left for your future!"
The declaration resounded in nearly everyone's ears.
"Hm?"
Walking down the street, Syd furrowed his brow.
He noticed that the expressions of passersby seemed off and sensed a psychic wave enveloping the area.
Due to his subconscious rejection, this wave did not affect him directly.
Instinctively, Syd connected with the psychic wave and heard Xavier's message.
His mind raced, quickly piecing together the situation.
"This is Apocalypse?"
The memory aligned with what was happening.
"But Apocalypse was supposed to be a post-future event," Syd mused.
Then it clicked: Apocalypse had always been there, and whether or not the future was altered, his presence remained. The difference was whether someone disturbed him, awakening him from his slumber.
"This could be troublesome…" Syd frowned.
His intuition told him that he and Apocalypse wouldn't coexist peacefully.
Whether he intervened or not, Apocalypse would likely target him.
If Syd were an ordinary mutant or even a moderately powerful one, they might coexist without conflict, but…
Syd doubted that Apocalypse would ignore an Omega-level mutant like him.
It was like dropping a hundred-dollar bill in front of someone—they'd be foolish not to pick it up.
"With his ability to possess others, Apocalypse will definitely seek me out if he has the chance."
"Even if things seem calm now, should I encounter any vulnerability or weakness, he'll undoubtedly act."
"After all, an Omega-level mutant like me is too tempting for anyone to ignore."
Syd whispered to himself.
Not only Apocalypse, but even he would be tempted under such circumstances. Clearly, peaceful coexistence was unlikely.
As he pondered, Syd suddenly sensed something, his expression tightening.
At the same time, Xavier and Apocalypse sensed Syd's formidable psychic presence, as it was impossible to ignore such a powerful force amidst the sea of minds.
End of Chapter