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

[Takeshi looks absolutely concerned for Mr. Charles, to be sure. His brow wrinkles and uncertainty draws on his features. Oh, maybe this wasn't a good idea...! He was really worried about upsetting him...! It's a lot, he knows. He should have thought a little gentler!]

Are you okay?

It's alright, Mr. Charles. I'm alright!

[He pats his chest.]

It only hurt for a little while. I'm fine now. All better!

[ He manages a faint smile. ]

Of course. You're a strong boy.

[He shakes his head, somber.]

I don't think I am... M'not very strong. Everybody else has to stop the biggest monsters...

A-and here, I don't even got my supersuit...

[ He softens. ]

There are many kinds of strength. Sometimes, even the people who stop the monsters need a hug or a smile to remind them what they're fighting for.

[He considers that quietly. He'd gotten so used to being able to hold his own, and even though he's armed here, he still... worries about his worth to the team. But then, he can't say that Mr. Charles is wrong. There's lots of ways to be strong. He smiles a bit, though it's shy.]

I guess that's true...! I guess I can help people in other ways.

Our strongest powers don't come from suits or how strong we are.

[ He points to his heart. ] They come from here.

[He puts his hands over his heart, smiling now despite how sheepish he's become.]

Even if it breaks.

And if that happens. . .

[ He lightly tousles Takeshi's hair. ]

Just drop by and I'll fix it for you.

[He can't hold back his humored giggle, giving a little salute.]

Yessir! I'll remember, I promise!

Excellent.