driftfleet | (no subject)

Who: Charles Xavier + You
Broadcast: Video
Action: SS Heron
When: Right now!

[ The video starts with Charles sitting on his wheelchair, his hands neatly folded on his lap. He rubs faint circles on his legs for a few seconds, the only real sign of tension. ]

Hello. My names is Charles Xavier. I am a geneticist graduated from Oxford. I -- [ ran ] -- run a school in Westchester for the Gifted. Mutants. People with abilities. My focus is the training and control of abilities we do not always fully understand, abilities that are gifts but can often run amok.

[ He pauses, catching his second wind before continuing on, poised. ]

I am also a telepath with a full set of abilities in aiding the mind and extremely . . . proficient. I do not read minds without permission, because honestly, I really don't care.

[ Charles pauses again, wondering if he should say more and dismisses it. People can ask him if they need details - which they will. ]

If anyone would like to make use of my abilities and skills, they are certainly most welcome to. Confidentiality, of course, is key and you need not make anything public if you do not wish to. If you have any questions for me, the floor is open for you.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

The Avengers.

[ He takes a minute to parse that. ]

That's a strong name.

It was coined by a strong man.

Doesn't the term "avenge" mean that you're there only after the problem has occurred?

[ He's teasing, a little. Charles finds code names and even being called the X-Men a little excessive. ]

[He looks slightly pained at that, actually.]

Ideally not, but I understand it's meant to convey a sense of defense rather than offense.

The Defenders might be a better name for that. But I know how these things get started. Usually in the heat of the moment.

["Avengers" was probably as low on the hostility tree as Nick Fury was willing to go. Ah well.]

Indeed. I certainly don't claim to be responsible for the name. I'm quite fond of the team itself, of course.

Of course.

[ Charles' voice is faintly nostalgic. ] We often are.

Perhaps I'll even see them again some day.

[But after a moment his expression clears.]

In any case, do you have a desired time and place to meet?

[ He shakes his head. ]

No. Just give me enough notice. It still takes me a while to travel.

Understood. We could come to you, if that would be easier. Otherwise the Iskaulit should have private rooms available.

The Heron might not be the best place to test telepathy.

[ Especially with their Captain. Best to find an empty spot on a larger ship. ]

I think the Iskaulit will do nicely.

[YEAH good point. He nods.]

We ought to meet there soon, in that case. In the meantime, please let me know if there is anything I can do for you. I greatly appreciate your willingness to help.

It's fine, really. It's what I do.

It's admirable regardless.

[ Charles doesn't believe that, but he's always been uncomfortable with praise. ]

It's admirable if it works.

[Oh, is he going to be like that.]

It's admirable that you even make the attempt. When people encounter something that is dangerous, they can fear it or they can try to understand it. Understanding leads to control and confidence. Fear leads only to destruction.

[ Charles chuckles. It isn't pretty. ]

I'm well versed in fear.

Then you understand my position?

Oh, very clearly.

I look forward to working with you, then.

[ His lips curve, bemused. ]

As am I.

(no subject)

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