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

Xavier's smile deepened. "It's an honor, Inspector. It's not every day you encounter an FBI agent willing to risk their life to protect mutants."

Lynn noticed Xavier's focused gaze; those blue eyes seemed to see right through any pretense. As the world's most powerful telepath, Xavier might indeed possess that ability. The thought was unsettling yet strangely reassuring—in front of this man, there was neither the need nor the possibility of hiding one's true intentions.

“I’m just doing my job, Professor,” Lynn replied, “protecting everyone, whether they’re ordinary people or mutants.”

“Humility,” Xavier commented, “but we all know the reality is more complex. In the current political climate, many law enforcement officers would choose a more conservative approach. Your actions demonstrate personal courage and conviction.”

Lynn wasn't sure how to respond to this assessment, so he chose to be honest: "Part of the reason is personal, Professor. My sister Emily is a mutant. Although her abilities are limited, the discrimination and fear she's experienced have shown me firsthand the system's shortcomings."

“Ah, yes, Emily,” Xavier nodded, as if he already knew this, “the ability to accelerate plant growth. A beautiful and useful talent. How is she now?”

“She’s fine, thank you for your concern,” Lynn said, setting aside for the moment how Xavier knew the details, “running a successful florist and garden centre in Portland. Her abilities have become an advantage, not a burden.”

“This is exactly what we hope to see,” Xavier said, his voice filled with genuine satisfaction. “Mutants can find their place in society and contribute with their unique talents.”

He leaned forward, placing his hands crossed on the table. "This is also part of what I wanted to discuss with you today, Inspector Hall."

Lynn waited for him to continue, feeling a touch of curiosity.

Xavier pressed a button on the table: "Sarah, please bring Alyssa in."

A few seconds later, the office door opened again. An older female teacher walked in, followed by a young woman who looked to be in her mid-twenties, with long, dark brown hair and gentle green eyes. She was dressed in simple jeans and a sweater and looked both nervous and curious.

“Alyssa, this is Detective Lynn Hall, FBI,” Xavier introduced. “Detective Hall, this is Alyssa Chandler, a graduate of our academy.”

Elisa extended her hand to Lynn, her hand trembling slightly but firmly: "It's a pleasure to meet you, Inspector Hall."

Lynn took her hand and felt an unusual connection—not supernatural, but an intuitive understanding that this meeting was more important than it appeared. “It’s also a pleasure to meet you, Miss Chandler.”

“Please call me Elisa,” she said, her voice soft but clear.

The female teacher—Sarah—left the office, leaving the three of them alone. Xavier gestured for Alyssa to sit in the chair next to Lynn.

“Detective Hall,” Xavier began, “Alyssa is one of our most promising students. She came to the academy at sixteen and has now completed all her coursework, including advanced mutant control training. Her academic record is outstanding, particularly in the humanities and psychology.”

Elisa smiled, but she was clearly uncomfortable, as if she wasn't used to being praised like that.

“She’s also a telepath,” Xavier continued, “though not as powerful as me or Jean Grey, her abilities have unique qualities.”

Lynn looked at Elisa, waiting for further explanation.

The young woman took a deep breath, seemingly gathering her thoughts: "My abilities are very limited, Inspector Hall. I cannot read minds or engage in long-distance telepathic communication like a professor. But I can feel and understand people's emotions and core thoughts, especially when they are in a state of confusion or uncertainty."

“Alyssa’s ability is more like a highly developed empathy than typical telepathy,” Xavier added. “She can quickly gain a deep understanding of a person’s psychological state and needs, establishing an almost instantaneous bridge of trust and communication.”

“But I can only use it once or twice a day,” Elisa admitted, “and each time it only lasts a few minutes. Afterwards, I need a long recovery period. Overuse can cause severe migraines and physical discomfort.”

Lynn pondered this information and began to understand why he had been invited to the meeting, but he was still unsure of the specific purpose.

“This is a very valuable skill,” he commented, “especially in communication and negotiation situations.”

Alyssa nodded. "Yes, I've helped the college resolve several tensions with the local community. Being able to truly understand their fears and anxieties, and then find common ground, is very helpful."

Xavier looked at Alyssa gently, clearly proud of her. Then he turned back to Lynn: “Detective Hall, I invited you here because Alyssa is ready to take the next step. She wants to start her life and career in the ‘outside world’ rather than remain in the protective environment of the Academy.”

“I want to become a therapist,” Elisa explained, her voice filled with enthusiasm, “to help people who are going through difficulties or trauma. My abilities, though limited, can be a tool for building initial connections, helping me work more effectively.”

Lynn nodded, but remained unsure of her role in the plan: "It's a commendable goal, but I'm not sure how I can help."

Xavier and Alyssa exchanged a glance, then Xavier explained, “We hope you can help Alyssa transition into normal society, Detective Hall. Provide her with some guidance, perhaps help her find accommodation in New York, and understand how to live and work without revealing her mutant identity.”

“Basically, I need a mentor,” Alyssa said directly, “someone who understands how the 'normal world' works, but also comprehends the challenges faced by mutants. Based on the professor and others, you seem perfectly suited for this role.”

Lynn blinked in surprise, not expecting this request. He looked around as if searching for hidden cameras or some other explanation.

“I’m not sure I’m the best fit,” he admitted. “My job is very demanding and sometimes quite dangerous. I’m not sure I can provide the support and stability that Elisa needs.”

“We understand your concerns,” Xavier said calmly, “but we’re not asking you to be a full-time guardian or take charge of Alyssa’s daily life. More like a contact person, someone she can reach out to when she needs advice or help.”

Alyssa nodded. “I’m perfectly capable of taking care of myself, Detective Hall. I just need some guidance, especially in the beginning. And—” she hesitated—“I think the professor believes that having a friend in the FBI might provide extra security in an emergency.”

Lynn turned to Xavier, beginning to grasp the situation: “You’re worried that the Black Crows or other anti-mutant groups might pose a threat to mutants outside the Institute’s protection.” “It’s not just the Black Crows,” Xavier acknowledged. “Violence against mutants has increased in recent years. While Alyssa’s abilities aren’t obvious, and she can easily blend into the crowd, an extra safety net is always beneficial.”

Lynn fell into thought. The request surprised him, but it wasn't entirely unreasonable. He did have sympathy and understanding for the mutant community; his sister had gone through a similar transition—from hiding her abilities to accepting and using them in the right circumstances.

“May I ask why me?” he finally asked. “There must be other mutants or allies with connections to ordinary society who could help Elisa.”

Xavier and Elisa exchanged another glance, and then Elisa nodded slightly, seemingly giving some kind of permission.

“There are several reasons, Detective Hall,” Xavier said. “First, you have demonstrated your commitment to mutant rights, not only through your actions but also through your support of your sister. Second, your FBI status provides an official channel and layer of protection that may prove valuable in the future.”

He paused, then continued, "But most importantly, Elisa chose you."

Lynn looked at Elisa in surprise.

The young woman smiled apologetically: “When you arrived at the college, I happened to sense your thought patterns and emotional responses. It wasn't an intentional offense, I assure you. But I sensed your honesty and integrity, and your deep commitment to protecting the vulnerable. These qualities are rare, especially in your profession.”

Lynn wasn’t sure how to respond to the confession, but he understood that Elisa hadn’t meant to invade his privacy.

“I assure you, I did not read any personal thoughts or memories,” Elisa quickly added, “just general emotional states and core values.”

“I understand,” Lynn finally replied, her voice calm. “Thank you for your trust, although it was a bit unexpected.”

He turned to Xavier: “I need some time to consider this request, Professor. It’s not just about my personal time and energy, but also about my professional responsibilities and limitations.”

“Of course,” Xavier nodded. “This is an important decision and shouldn’t be made hastily. Perhaps you’d like to speak with Alyssa alone first to learn more about her plans and needs?”

Lynn thought for a moment and nodded in agreement: "That's a good idea."

Xavier smiled and maneuvered his wheelchair toward the door. “I have some business to attend to. You can use my office for as long as you need. If you have any questions, Inspector Hall, I’ll be happy to answer them later.”

After Xavier left, the room fell silent. Lynn and Elisa sat facing each other, unsure how to begin this strange conversation.

“So,” Lynn finally broke the silence, “a therapist?”

A smile bloomed on Alyssa's face, clearly showing her enthusiasm for the topic: "Yes. I've always been fascinated by the psychological and emotional world of humans—and mutants. I have a bachelor's degree and now hope to pursue a master's degree in clinical psychology at New York University."

"You've already applied?" Lynn asked.

“Yes, and I’ve been accepted,” Alyssa said proudly, “with a full scholarship. My academic record is excellent, although… of course, I didn’t mention I was a mutant in my application.”

Lynn nodded, understanding the necessity of such caution: "In the current social climate, it's wise. When do you plan to move to New York?"

“Early next month,” Elisa replied, “I’ve already started looking for an apartment, but New York house prices are…” She made a face.

“It is indeed a challenge,” Lynn agreed, “especially for students. Do you have sufficient funding?”

"The college has a transition fund to help graduates like me start living independently. Combined with a scholarship and a confirmed part-time job at the library, I should be able to support myself."

Lynn was impressed with her plan: "It sounds like you've thought everything through. So why do you need my help?"

Alyssa took a deep breath, seemingly gathering her thoughts: "Mainly on safety and advice, Inspector Hall. I spent six years at the Academy, which is both a school and a sanctuary. The outside world is still somewhat foreign to me, especially as a mutant."

"Are you worried about being discovered?" Lynn asked directly.

“It’s not just about being discovered,” Elisa shook her head, “it’s more about not knowing how to use my abilities when needed without arousing suspicion or fear. At the Academy, everyone understands and accepts mutant abilities. Outside, even the slightest display of an ability can have dangerous consequences.”

Lynn pondered her concerns, recalling a similar challenge her sister had faced: "That's a valid concern. Your ability... does it have any obvious external indications when used?"

“Not very noticeable,” Elisa replied. “My eyes become slightly brighter and take on a deeper green hue, and I sometimes have mild headaches. But there are no obvious physical changes, like Wolverine's claws or Scott's eye condition.”

“That’s good,” Lynn commented. “Relatively easy to conceal. But the usage restrictions you mentioned—only one or two times a day, and for only a few minutes—would that be a challenge in a professional setting?”

Alyssa sighed. "Maybe. That's why I need to learn how to be a good counselor without relying on my abilities. I want my abilities to be a tool, not a crutch."

Lynn was impressed by her insight: "It's a healthy attitude. Many people try to maximize their specific abilities rather than develop complementary skills."

“That’s what the professor taught us,” Elisa smiled. “Our abilities are talents, but they shouldn’t define our entire identity or career.”

They continued their discussion of Elisa's plans, her expectations for life in New York, and the challenges she might face. Lynn found herself increasingly admiring of the young woman's intelligence and resilience. She was both realistic and optimistic, planned yet flexible. (End of Chapter)