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

“I don’t control the specific actions of these organizations,” Blackwood shook his head. “If certain individuals choose to use violence, that’s their personal responsibility, and it has nothing to do with me.”

Lynn felt defeated. Blackwood had clearly prepared meticulously, and every answer he gave was legally sound.

“Mr. Blackwood, we know you’re not just an ordinary donor,” Lynn decided to be more direct. “We have evidence that you are directly involved in organized crime targeting mutants.”

Blackwood stopped and turned to face Lynn. A dangerous glint flashed in his eyes, but he quickly regained his composure.

“Detective, you are making very serious accusations.” His voice turned cold. “I expect you have sufficient evidence to support these claims, otherwise this could constitute defamation.”

“We will present our evidence in court,” Lynn responded.

“Then we’ll wait and see,” Blackwood said with a smile, but there was no warmth in it. “However, Inspector, I feel you have many misunderstandings about me and my activities. Perhaps we should find a more appropriate occasion to clarify these misunderstandings.”

"What's the meaning?"

Blackwood returned to the table and retrieved a gold-embossed invitation from an elegant folder. “This weekend, I’m hosting a small dinner at my estate on Long Island. Some of the most influential people in New York will be there, including judges, politicians, media executives, and more.”

He handed the invitation to Lynn. "I sincerely invite you to attend. Perhaps in a more relaxed setting, we can have a more frank exchange."

Lynn accepted the invitation, feeling a moment of confusion. The invitation was beautifully crafted, with elegant lettering that read: "Mr. Richard Blackwood cordially invites you to a dinner party at his seaside estate."

"Why did you invite me?" Lynn asked directly.

“Because I believe that once you understand the truth, you will realize that your investigation has been misguided.” Blackwood’s tone became almost amicable. “Besides, Inspector, I find you to be a man of principle. I respect such men.”

Are you trying to bribe me?

“Of course not.” Blackwood looked somewhat insulted. “I was simply offering an opportunity for us to communicate in a more civilized manner. If you refuse to know the truth, that’s your choice.”

Lynn carefully observed Blackwood's expression, trying to discern his true intentions. This invitation could be a trap, or it could be an opportunity to obtain more information.

"If I attend your dinner party, would you be willing to answer my questions?"

“If I’m in a good mood,” Blackwood said casually, “maybe we can exchange a few words. But I can’t guarantee anything, Detective. I’m not your suspect; I’m a free citizen.”

This statement made Lynn realize that Blackwood was very confident in his legal standing. He clearly believed he would not be prosecuted, or even if he was, he would not be convicted.

"Are you so sure you won't face any legal consequences?" Lynn asked.

“Detective, I’ve worked in this country’s legal and political system for thirty years,” Blackwood said with absolute confidence. “I know the rules of the game, and I know how to protect myself.”

Even if facing murder charges?

“Murder?” Blackwood laughed. “Detective, what evidence do you have that I murdered anyone? Are there any witnesses? Is there any evidence that I personally carried out the act? Or are you simply trying to hold me accountable for the actions of others?”

Lynn realized Blackwood was right. Even if they could prove he funded these activities, more evidence would still be needed to directly charge him with murder.

“The law is complicated, Detective,” Blackwood continued. “Even if someone funds an organization, it doesn’t mean he’s responsible for all of that organization’s actions. Unless you can prove a direct conspiracy.”

“We will find the evidence,” Lynn said firmly.

“Maybe, maybe not,” Blackwood shrugged. “But until then, I suggest you don’t waste too much time on this.”

Do you have any better suggestions?

“I suggest you focus on the real criminals,” Blackwood said, his tone turning serious. “Those who actually use violence, those who truly threaten public safety.”

"You mean mutants?" Lynn asked tentatively.

A flash of anger crossed Blackwood's eyes, but he quickly suppressed it. "I'm referring to anyone who uses illegal means to achieve their goals, whether they're an ordinary person or someone else."

"Do you consider mutants a threat?"

“I believe any individual with superhuman abilities could be a threat,” Blackwood replied cautiously. “This isn’t prejudice; it’s common sense.”

“But Merlin Chan is helping people,” Lynn points out. “She uses her abilities to heal diseases and save lives.”

“That’s the problem,” Blackwood’s voice grew agitated. “When people start to rely on these abilities, when they start to see these people as indispensable, human independence is threatened.”

"So you think curing diseases is wrong?"

“I believe humanity should rely on its own efforts and science to solve problems,” Blackwood replied, “rather than on the supernatural abilities of certain individuals.”

Lynn began to understand Blackwood's twisted logic. In his view, the good deeds of mutants were more dangerous than their malicious ones because they would make humans develop a dependence on and affection for them.

"Do you think all mutants should be prevented from using their abilities?" Lynn continued to probe.

“I believe there should be appropriate regulation,” Blackwood replied cautiously, “just as we regulate other potentially dangerous technologies.”

"Regulation or elimination?"

Blackwood paused for a moment, then gave a cold laugh. "Detective, are you trying to get me to say something that can be used against me?"

"I'm just trying to understand your point of view."

“My point is simple,” Blackwood stood up, clearly preparing to conclude the meeting, “I believe that the future of humanity should be in human hands, not controlled by any external force.”

Even if this means preventing the cure for the disease?

“Even if it means making difficult choices.” Blackwood’s tone turned icy. “Inspector, sometimes short-term suffering is for long-term survival.”

Lynn felt a chill. Blackwood had essentially admitted his motive, albeit in very careful wording. “Mr. Blackwood, I think I understand your position,” Lynn stood up, “but I must tell you that we will continue to investigate this case, however long it may take.”

“Of course, that’s your job,” Blackwood nodded. “But I must also remind you, Inspector, that power is a delicate thing. Sometimes, the pursuit of justice can have unintended consequences.”

Are you threatening me?

“A threat?” Blackwood looked surprised. “Of course not. I’m just stating a fact. In this complex world, sometimes the best intentions can lead to the worst outcomes.”

Lynn understood that this was indeed a threat, just cleverly disguised. Blackwood was implying that he had the ability to influence Lynn's career, and even his personal safety.

“I’m not afraid of the consequences,” Lynn said firmly. “I only care about justice.”

“Justice is a relative concept, Detective,” Blackwood said with a smile. “What you consider just today may not be so tomorrow.”

“Merlin Chan’s death will never be just,” Lynn asserted.

Blackwood's expression grew even colder. "Merlin Chan's death was a tragedy, but sometimes personal tragedy is for the greater good."

This statement made Lynn realize that Blackwood had no remorse for Merlin's death and even thought it was necessary.

“And what about the other victims?” Lynn asked. “The Philadelphia ‘Healers,’ the Boston ‘Mind Readers’? Were their deaths also for a greater good?”

A flicker of wariness crossed Blackwood's eyes, but he quickly regained his composure. "I don't know what you're talking about, Inspector. I regret the loss of anyone."

"But you don't deny knowing about these cases?"

“I read the news, Detective. Reports of accidental deaths are not uncommon,” Blackwood replied cautiously.

Lynn realized he wouldn't get any more direct acknowledgments from Blackwood. The man was too clever, too experienced, and knew how to express his true thoughts without breaking the law.

"So, is your invitation to the dinner this weekend still valid?" Lynn asked.

“Of course.” Blackwood’s expression softened again. “I look forward to further discussions with you. Perhaps we can find some common ground in that situation.”

“I’ll consider it,” Lynn said.

“I hope you will attend,” Blackwood said, then gestured to his lawyers, “Mr. Weber, we should go. I believe the FBI still has a lot of work to do.”

As Blackwood and his men prepared to leave, he suddenly turned to Lynn and said, “Detective, one last piece of advice. Before you continue your investigation, perhaps you should consider the potential impact this case could have on your career. Sometimes, knowing when to stop is a form of wisdom.”

“My career isn’t my biggest concern,” Lynn replied.

"So what are you concerned about?" Blackwood asked, a hint of curiosity flashing in his eyes.

“Truth. Justice. Protecting the innocent.” Lynn answered without hesitation.

Blackwood nodded, as if assessing Lynn's words. "Noble ideals, Inspector. I hope reality won't disappoint you."

After saying this, Blackwood left the conference room with his legal team, leaving Lynn standing there alone, pondering everything that had just happened.

Lynn picked up the invitation from the table and studied the details carefully. The dinner was scheduled for this Saturday evening at Blackwood's private estate on Long Island. The quality of the invitation and the printing indicated that this would be a high-profile social event.

Attending this dinner was both an opportunity and a risk. On the one hand, he might gain more information about Blackwood and his network. On the other hand, he might fall into an elaborate trap.

Lynn's thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the door. Elisa walked into the conference room, a worried expression on her face.

"Detective Lynn, I've been waiting outside for an hour. How did the meeting go?"

“Complex,” Lynn replied simply, then recounted the main points of his conversation with Blackwood to Alyssa.

Elisa turned pale when she heard Blackwood's views on mutants. "Does he really think helping others is wrong?"

“In his logic, yes,” Lynn nodded. “He believes that the goodwill of mutants will create dependence in humans, ultimately threatening humanity’s independence.”

“This is insane,” Elisa said in shock. “Merlin has saved so many lives, and he sees this as a threat?”

“That’s the danger of extreme ideologies,” Lynn sighed. “When a person completely believes in their own worldview, any facts that contradict it will be distorted or ignored.”

"So, are you planning to attend his dinner party?" Elisa asked.

“I’m still considering it,” Lynn admitted. “It could be an opportunity to gain more information, but it could also be dangerous.”

“If you decide to go, I would like to go with you,” Elisa said firmly.

“No, that’s too dangerous,” Lynn immediately objected. “Blackwood has already shown extreme hostility towards mutants. What if he knew your identity?”

“But that’s precisely why my abilities might be more useful,” Elisa argued. “I can sense his and his guests’ true thoughts and discover the real intentions behind their surface words.”

Lynn considered the suggestion. Elisa's abilities could indeed be very useful, but the risks were also significant.

“I need to consider all the options,” Lynn said. “Right now, the most important thing is to ensure Morrison’s safety and get more information from him.”

Is he still cooperating with the investigation?

“Yes, and the information he provided confirmed our suspicions. Blackwood is indeed operating a nationwide anti-mutant network,” Lynn said. “We need to contact FBI field offices in other cities to investigate those ‘accidental deaths’.”

On Friday afternoon, Lynn faced Alyssa's request again in his FBI office. She sat opposite him, her purple eyes filled with determination and worry.

“Detective Lynn, I really think you shouldn’t have gone to that party alone,” Elisa said earnestly. “Blackwood has shown extreme hostility towards mutants, and if he does anything to you on his own turf…” (End of Chapter)