American comics: I am full of martial virtues and I love to be kind to others.

Ethan seemed to sense Lynn's discomfort and tried to change the subject again, "I heard you just got back from a mission recently? Of course, I'm not asking for details. I'm just curious about the lifestyle of an FBI agent."

Lynn took a sip of his coffee. "Busy and challenging. But I believe that's true for journalists, especially columnists." He paused, then decided to ask the other person, "Why are you particularly interested in the topic of mutants?"

Ethan seemed unprepared for the question, but quickly regained his composure. "This is a pivotal issue that defines our time. The emergence of mutants has fundamentally altered our understanding of humanity, raising profound legal, ethical, and social questions. As a journalist, I believe it is my responsibility to report on these issues objectively and to foster social dialogue."

Lynn stared at Ethan, trying to decipher his true motives. "The Daily Bugle, especially your editor Jameson, is known for its criticism of superheroes. Does this stance extend to your reporting on mutants?"

Ethan smiled, seemingly unbothered by the direct question. “Mr. Jameson is indeed skeptical of some self-proclaimed heroes, especially those who wear masks and are above the law. But our newspaper doesn’t take an anti-mutant stance. In fact, my column has consistently tried to showcase the diversity of the mutant community and the challenges they face.”

Gwen interjected, "Ethan recently wrote a series of articles on mutant rights, very insightful and balanced. He even risked interviewing several underground mutant communities, trying to make their voices heard in the public eye."

Lynn was somewhat surprised by this information, but remained vigilant. "So, what's your stance? How do you think mutants should be treated by society?"

Ethan seemed prepared for this question: “I believe that fundamental human rights should apply to everyone, regardless of their genetic makeup. But at the same time, I also recognize the security risks that certain variant capabilities may pose. I support establishing transparent and fair systems to address these issues, rather than simply relying on fear or discrimination.” This answer sounded thoughtful, demonstrating both a principled stance and consideration for the complexities of reality.

Lynn nodded but offered no further comment. He glanced at his watch and realized he was already half an hour past his planned time.

“I’m afraid I must take my leave,” he stood up. “I have an appointment with George this afternoon.”

Gwen looked a little disappointed but didn't stop them. Ethan also stood up and extended his hand. "It was a pleasure meeting you, Lynn. Although our conversation was a bit tense, I really appreciate you taking the time to meet."

Lynn gave the other person a reluctant shake of the hand. "I hope you understand my position. This isn't directed at you personally, but rather a requirement of my profession."

Ethan nodded. “I completely understand. However, if you change your mind and are willing to share some general insights about how law enforcement views mutants, without touching on the FBI’s official position, it would be very helpful for the public to understand these complex issues.” He handed over a business card. “Feel free to contact me anytime.”

Lynn took the business card but made no promises. He nodded to Gwen and left the café, his heart filled with complex emotions.

As soon as they were out of sight of the café, Lynn took out her phone and sent Gwen a message: "Next time, please tell me in advance what your 'surprise' involves. You know I can't discuss sensitive topics with the media."

Gwen quickly replied, "I'm sorry, but Ethan is truly a good journalist, unlike those who only seek sensationalism. He cares about the truth and balanced reporting. I thought you two would get along well."

Lynn sighed and didn't reply immediately. He understood Gwen's intentions, but she didn't seem to fully grasp the professional limitations and sensitivities of his role as an FBI agent.

Just as Lynn was about to leave, he noticed Ethan also walked out of the café, alone, seemingly deep in thought. Out of professional habit, Lynn decided to observe the reporter. Instead of leaving immediately, he walked to a newsstand across the street, pretending to browse magazines while observing Ethan's actions through the reflective glass window.

Ethan seemed to be waiting for someone. He stood outside the café, checking his phone every now and then, looking somewhat anxious. A few minutes later, a dark-colored sedan pulled up near the café. Ethan strode towards the car, spoke briefly with the person inside, and got in. The car drove away quickly, but Lynn managed to memorize the license plate number.

This action triggered Lynn's professional instincts. Secret meetings between journalists and mysterious figures always attracted attention, especially after discussions of sensitive topics. He considered checking the license plate number through the FBI's system but quickly dismissed the idea. Without reasonable grounds for suspicion, doing so could violate procedure and even raise ethical issues.

Lynn decided to put his strange observation aside for the time being and continue with his vacation plans. He headed towards the shooting range, intending to spend the afternoon with George. However, Ethan's question and his mysterious meeting wouldn't leave Lynn's mind.

The shooting range, located in the suburbs of Manhattan, is a professional training facility frequented by many law enforcement officers and security professionals. When Lynn arrived, George was already waiting there, inspecting a classic Colt 1911 pistol.

“You’re late,” George commented without looking up. “How was your meeting with Gwen’s friend?”

Lynn took off his jacket, pulled out his sidearm, a Glock 19, and began a standard security check. "Not going well. He's a reporter, specializing in mutants."

George raised an eyebrow, this time looking directly into Lynn's eyes. "Mutants? Gwen knows it's a sensitive topic, especially for you."

Lynn shrugged. "She thinks he's a good journalist, the kind with ethical standards. Maybe she just wants to help me expand my social circle? I don't know."

George chuckled. "Typical Gwen concern. She always wants everyone to be her friend." He paused, his expression turning more serious. "So, what did this reporter ask?"

“Basically, it was a test of my views on mutants, especially from a law enforcement perspective,” Lynn replied briefly, beginning to load the magazine.

“How did you respond?” George asked, a hint of concern in his voice. As a retired police officer, he was acutely aware of the complexities of law enforcement’s interactions with the media.

Lynn sighed. "I remained neutral and professional. I told him I couldn't and wouldn't discuss these sensitive topics. But to be honest, I felt uncomfortable throughout the entire meeting."

George nodded, his expression turning thoughtful. "The issue of mutants has always been a highly polarizing topic. There are also differing opinions within law enforcement."

Lynn looked at her adoptive father curiously, "What's your opinion, as an experienced police officer?"

George thought for a moment, then replied, “I’ve always believed that what matters isn’t what a person is, but what they do. Some mutants use their abilities to help others, while others use them for crime or harm. Just like ordinary people, they should be judged by their actions, not their identity.” He paused, “But I also understand the fears of ordinary people. An individual capable of mind control or possessing destructive power certainly represents an unusual threat.”

Lynn nodded, agreeing with her adoptive father's point of view. "That's the difficulty. How do we find a balance between protecting public safety and respecting individual rights?" George patted Lynn on the shoulder. "There's no easy answer to this question, never has. That's why we need people like you working in law enforcement."

The two began shooting practice, each choosing a different target. Lynn's shooting was precise and efficient, hitting the center of the target with every shot, demonstrating the results of years of training and combat experience. George, despite his age, maintained considerable accuracy, only his rate of fire was slightly slower.

During a lull in the shooting, Lynn mentioned another thing that was bothering him, "That reporter, Ethan, acted strangely after leaving the café. He seemed to have a secret meeting with someone, and then he left."

George seemed somewhat surprised. "You were following him?"

“Not entirely,” Lynn corrected, “it’s just a professional habit, observing the surroundings. I saw him get into a dark-colored car, and he seemed to be in a hurry.”

George thought for a moment. "It could just be his colleague or informant. Journalists often have these kinds of clandestine meetings."

“Maybe,” Lynn admitted, but deep down he still felt a tinge of unease. “It’s just too much of a coincidence. We had just finished discussing mutants, and then he had this secret meeting.”

George looked at his adopted son. "Do you think this has anything to do with your job? Or with Black Hawk International?"

Lynn shook her head. "I don't know. Maybe I'm being too sensitive. But after working in this industry for a while, you start to doubt coincidences."

“Then stay alert,” George advised, raising his gun to the target again, “but don’t let it ruin your vacation. You’re going back to work tomorrow, so try to relax today.”

They continued their shooting practice, and the conversation shifted to lighter topics—George's recent involvement in a police officer training program, some childhood memories of Lynn, and Gwen's career in journalism.

After finishing their shooting practice, they went to a nearby small restaurant for lunch. It was a simple pasta shop, simply decorated but with delicious food. They ordered their favorite dishes and enjoyed a brief moment of peace.

“You know,” George said after taking a few bites of pasta, “the discussion about mutants reminds me of your childhood.”

Lynn looked up, somewhat surprised. "What do you mean?"

George put down his fork, his expression softening. "When we first adopted you and Gwen, you often had nightmares. Once, you dreamt that you had become some kind of inhuman being, rejected and feared by everyone."

Lynn tried hard to recall, but the memory was already blurry. "I don't remember much."

“You were terrified,” George continued, “afraid of becoming different, afraid of losing the people who loved you. I think that was because of the trauma from the sudden loss of your parents.”

Lynn was silent for a moment, this childhood memory touching upon some deep-seated emotions. "Maybe that's why the topic of mutants is particularly sensitive to me. I can understand the fear of being seen as 'different.'"

George nodded, his eyes gentle. "Deep down, everyone fears rejection, of being seen as an outsider. This is probably one reason why the issue of mutants resonates so deeply and is so divisive."

This conversation made Lynn reflect on his true feelings towards mutants. As an FBI agent, he had to remain professional and neutral, but as a human being, he also had his own emotions and experiences. Perhaps his wariness of Ethan wasn't just due to professional caution, but also because the topic touched upon some of his own anxieties and fears.

After lunch, George suggested they take a walk to digest their food. They strolled along the park paths, enjoying a rare moment of peace. However, this tranquility was soon broken—Lynn's phone rang, and the screen showed Gwen.

“Hey, Gwen,” Lynn answered the phone, “what’s up?”

Gwen's voice sounded a little nervous, "Lynn, are you still at the shooting range?"

“No, George and I just finished lunch and were taking a walk around here. What’s wrong?” Lynn felt uneasy; Gwen’s tone was clearly off.

“I just got a call from Ethan,” Gwen said quickly. “He says he’s discovered some important information about Black Hawk International that might be related to what you’re investigating. He wants to see you immediately.”

Lynn immediately became alert, glancing at George, who also sensed something amiss. "How did he know I was investigating Black Hawk International? I've never revealed this information to anyone."

“I may have mentioned it in a conversation,” Gwen admitted, her voice tinged with apology, “I just said you’ve been dealing with cases involving them lately, without details.”

Lynn felt a surge of unease and anxiety. Such information leaks, even if seemingly harmless, could have serious consequences. Even more worrying was the question: why did Ethan suddenly have information about Black Hawk International?

"Where is he?" Lynn finally asked, deciding to at least find out what was going on.

“He said he was on his way to a warehouse at the Brooklyn docks, in the old industrial area next to Pier 24 in Gridge. He sounded very nervous, saying it was a dangerous situation, but he had information he had to share.” Gwen’s voice came through the phone, tinged with obvious anxiety.

Lynn and George exchanged a serious look. Gridge Piers was a semi-abandoned industrial area in Brooklyn; the once-bustling port facilities were now mostly abandoned, becoming a hotspot for smuggling, black market trading, and other illegal activities. This was not a place a journalist should go alone, especially with information that might involve a dangerous organization like Black Hawk International.

“Gwen, listen to me,” Lynn’s voice became serious and firm, “I’m going there now, but I need you to do one thing—contact FBI headquarters immediately and tell them I might need backup. Contact Agent Mark Wilson and tell him I’m heading to Pier 24 in the Gridge Wharf area, possibly related to Black Hawk International. Understand?” (End of Chapter)