Conversation and trip with Bald Man on the Chair

The hallway leading to the professor's office seemed to stretch endlessly, with elegant, ornamented walls inspired by Victorian style, giving it a majestic, almost museum-like atmosphere. The lighting was dim, and the light streaming through the tall Gothic windows cast patches of shadow on the walls and floor. Along the way, he passed numerous tastefully framed portraits, forming a gallery of faces that seemed to follow him with their gazes. A few caught his attention.

One of the pictures showed Cyclops—not as the leader of the X-Men this time, but as an ordinary guy standing on a beach, holding a surfboard, with a slightly tense expression on his face. His stance and stiff smile contrasted with the relaxed, vacation-like vibe of the photograph, as if he felt out of place outside of his combat uniform.

"What if I..." thought Samael, feeling a mischievous spark of inspiration.

He pulled out a marker, quietly swiped earlier from the table where Beast had served him tea. In one swift move, with a triumphant grin, he drew a mustache and something near Cyclops' crotch, adding retro-style accents to the photo. Glancing sideways, he noticed other portraits: one of Jean Grey against a summer landscape, another of Storm surrounded by swirling winds, and yet another of Beast, caught mid-experiment in his lab. Samael couldn't resist the fleeting thought that all these superheroes, legendary as they were, looked... well, just ordinary in private moments.

He moved on, hiding his smirk as he looked at Storm, who was gazing at him. However, she didn't seem to notice exactly what he'd done.

"Is something wrong?"

"Nothing, nothing. I just really like the Victorian vibe of this institute. It's kind of like Hogwarts. Heh..."

Ororo smiled slightly at his joke, her full lips curving as if trying to suppress amusement. She paused for a moment, turning toward him, a glimmer of understanding flashing in her eyes.

"Nice to hear you appreciate our... architecture," she replied softly, pausing their walk. "Some students also joke about it being a 'superhero-Hogwarts.' But I hope our classes prove more useful than lessons on flying brooms."

Samael shrugged, feigning indifference, though he felt the atmosphere between them grow lighter. "I wouldn't mind if there were a course on flying," he added, glancing at her out of the corner of his eye.

Ororo's smile widened, visibly amused. "That can be arranged. Gambit runs a course and training sessions for those who want to get a license for operating air vehicles. Almost no one but a few X-Men attended it. But if you're interested, the door's open," she replied, continuing toward Xavier's office, her steps now a bit lighter.

When Samael and Ororo reached the massive doors leading to the professor's office, Ororo gently knocked and, after a moment, opened the door, gesturing for him to enter. Samael stepped into the spacious office, and Ororo joined him, closing the door and standing just behind Xavier, like a vigilant guardian.

Professor Xavier's office exuded tranquility and elegance, as if in harmony with the institute's atmosphere. The walls were adorned with beautiful old paintings depicting landscapes and historical scenes, while shelves held books and various antiques, as if they had gathered different eras and places together. In the center, behind a sturdy wooden desk, sat Charles Xavier—his gentle smile and sharp eyes immediately made Samael feel more at ease.

"Welcome, Samael," the professor began warmly. "I hope your first impressions of our institute have been positive. How do you find our little community?"

Samael glanced around once more, trying to hide a slight amusement. "Well, there's something unique about this place—it really brings to mind magic... maybe something like Hogwarts, only with more of an X-Men twist."

Xavier smiled, nodding slightly. "That's a nice comparison," he replied. "We try to make our students feel safe here, like a second home. For many, it's their only chance for normalcy, to learn in a place where no one judges them for their powers."

After a moment, his expression grew slightly more serious, though he still radiated warmth. "I heard about your... rather intense confrontation with Logan. You made an impression—it's clear that talent and determination run deep in your nature. I understand you both had a rather... interesting exchange of strengths."

Samael gave a brief smile, his gaze hardening for a moment. "Logan definitely isn't one to hold back. But I have to say, it was a valuable lesson for me."

Xavier nodded approvingly. "I'm glad you see it that way. I know that fight sparked some questions in you about your origins. If you'd like, we can run some tests in Hank's lab to clarify any uncertainties about a possible connection between you and Logan. It may answer many questions, given the unusual circumstances."

Samael noticed that Charles was observing him closely, as if trying to read something deeper from his reaction. It was annoyingly perceptive, but at the same time, it stirred a certain respect for the professor.

The professor continued with a slight chuckle in his voice, "I must tell you, however, that Logan returned from that fight... in an exceptionally good mood. And that, Samael, is quite an accomplishment. We don't usually see him so... satisfied, which – as you might guess – unsettled some of the students. Logan with a smile is something no one here ever expected."

Samael couldn't help but smile slightly. He pictured the scene and understood that his encounter with him might have truly stirred something in Wolverine, earning both respect and fear among the younger mutants.

Professor Xavier, still maintaining a polite tone, looked at Samael with a certain degree of concern.

"I understand that asking about your abilities may seem a bit direct," Xavier began, trying to soften his intentions. "However, I'd like to know the full scope of your powers. It's not a matter of mere curiosity – it's about your safety, the safety of our students, and everyone who might come into contact with you. We want to help you as best we can, and by knowing your abilities, we'll be able to provide the appropriate support should the need arise."

Samael narrowed his eyes slightly, analyzing the professor's words. It was clear to him that Xavier must already have some information about his abilities – Logan had likely given an outline of what he saw during their fight. Samael also suspected that the X-Men might have hacked the cameras monitoring the fight at the port, where he faced Crossbones, which would have provided them with additional data.

He sighed reluctantly, understanding the situation but deciding to share a few key details. "Well, if you must know... I have claws – a bit different from the ones we know from Logan's history. They emerge from my palms and are made of something resembling bone but much more durable." He paused briefly, then continued, "In addition, I have regeneration, at a level sufficient to heal from serious wounds in moments. My skin, when I focus, becomes almost indestructible, and my physical capabilities – strength, speed, reflexes – surpass the average."

The professor raised an eyebrow slightly, appearing intrigued. "Does that mean you have other abilities?" he asked with a gentle smile.

Samael replied in a mysterious tone, unable to suppress a slight hint of irony. "Professor, let's say I don't yet trust the X-Men enough to reveal all my secrets."

Xavier understood the message, then nodded in acceptance. "Of course, that's entirely understandable. In that case, I invite you on a brief tour of our institute. I think it's worth it for you to see what we offer our students and how they can develop here."

Xavier, moving on his elegantly designed wheelchair, quickly clicked through some messages on the screen before him. He paused momentarily to issue instructions regarding documents related to a planned field trip for one of the classes to Stark Industries. Samael noticed that Xavier operated smoothly and without hesitation, as if he was thoroughly familiar with every logistical detail of the institute.

"It's important for students to have exposure to the technology used by the outside world. This way, they can see how their powers can harmonize with science, rather than isolating them from society," Xavier explained, glancing at Samael with a slight smile before pressing the final button and resuming the tour.

"Our dormitories are located closest to my office," Xavier began as they walked down a wide corridor. "It's symbolic – we want the students to know that their space and privacy are important, but at the same time, they have us, their mentors, nearby if needed."

When they reached the entrance to the dormitories, Xavier pointed to two wide corridors – to the left were the girls' rooms, and to the right, the boys'. The dorms were cozy yet modern. Tall windows let in plenty of light, and the walls were adorned with paintings and photographs depicting historical moments and portraits of renowned mutants.

"Each resident has their own room, although we usually group them in a way that fosters bonding. We strive to make everyone feel at home here," Xavier added. "Of course, there are rules – no entry to opposite-gender dorms after 9 p.m., responsibility for maintaining order, and a requirement to attend weekly meetings. All of this fosters mutual trust and security."

Xavier stopped at the entrance to the dormitories and pointed out a few figures moving through the hallways, evidently accustomed to the regular activity around the academy.

"Come on, Samael, you'll meet a few residents of this wing," he said calmly.

The first person they encountered was a young girl with short black hair and a somewhat punk style. She wore a loose t-shirt with "Negasonic Teenage Warhead" written on it and a leather jacket, and there was a confident spark in her eyes. Her skills were well known within the institute, and Samael could see traces of mutational energy pulsing around her.

"This is Ellie, also known as Negasonic Teenage Warhead. You might have heard about her exploits around Las Vegas," Xavier introduced her as the girl noticed them, sending them a slight smile. "She recently participated in a mission with Colossus and Deadpool. How did it go, Ellie?"

"You know how it is," she replied with a shrug. "There's always something happening, but luckily we didn't end up in the hospital." Her smile widened. "Colossus was as calm as ever, and Deadpool… well, he was being himself. But we managed to accomplish the objective."

Xavier nodded in acknowledgment. "I'm glad it went well. I always appreciate your bravery on missions. Although I still don't understand how Colossus managed to convince Wade to cooperate."

Samael curiously observed Negasonic. "What were your tasks?" he asked, wanting to learn more about her experiences.

"Mainly, we had to deal with a group of mutants who got a bit too bored and were planning some crazy antics. They got powers and thought they were gods or something. Idiots," she replied with a smile. "I didn't want it to end unpleasantly, so I figured it made no sense to wait until things got out of control."

Samael nodded in appreciation. "Sounds like quite an adventure. I hope they didn't beat you up too badly."

"Not really," she replied, her smile taking on a slightly mischievous expression. "Though I did have to send one of them on a little ride to the hospital to make him understand that it's not worth shoving your hands where they don't belong."

At that moment, a young man with thick dark hair, who was standing nearby, joined the conversation. He was wearing a dark t-shirt with the "X-Men" logo, and his skin had a subtle, slightly golden hue. This was Roberto da Costa, known as Sunspot. He smiled widely when he saw Samael.

"Hey, I've heard about you!" Roberto exclaimed. "Apparently, you knocked out Cyclops's teeth. I have to admit, that's quite an achievement!" He reached out to Samael for a high five.

Samael, surprised but smiling, returned the high five. "Well, it was more instinctive than planned, but I must admit it was quite satisfying."

Xavier watched this with a mix of amusement and slight disgust. "I'd just like to remind you that violence is not something we condone at the Institute. Using skills or just violence is one thing, but using them to settle disputes among yourselves… well, let's just say that may not be the best example."

Roberto shrugged slightly. "It was just a joke, Professor. I heard Samael likes to mess around, so why not congratulate him on a good prank?"

Xavier nodded his head in disappointment, but there was a sharper tone in his voice. "I'm glad you're so interested in entertainment, Roberto. So why don't you share your insights about this with Hank? Let's say tomorrow after classes."

Samael smiled slightly at Negasonic and Roberto, then Xavier turned to him. "I think it's a good time to move on," he said, pointing further down the hallway where more corners of the institute awaited.

Xavier led them onward until they reached a crossroads of hallways, where there were doors leading to the dormitories. "This is where our students live," he said, pointing to the marked doors. "The girls' rooms are on the left side, and the boys' dormitory is on the right."

"How many people live here?" Samael asked, observing the surroundings with interest.

"We usually have about twenty students in each wing. There are several dormitories; it's a huge institute," Xavier replied, pride resonating in his voice. "The kids learn not only about their abilities but also how to live in a mutant society. There are rules, but there's also plenty of space for fun and development."

Samael and Xavier continued exploring the institute, visiting various rooms. In the library, Xavier briefly spoke about the numerous collections, emphasizing its value not only as a place of knowledge but also as a haven of tranquility where students could find a moment of respite. They then walked through a small park in the center of the institute, filled with lush plants and carefully tended paths, where some students enjoyed their free time, relaxing on benches or walking around. Samael noticed a subtle contrast between the harmony of nature and the tension he still sensed in this establishment.

As they passed through more classrooms, they came upon one where a biology lesson was taking place. As they approached the door, Samael noticed someone who immediately caught his attention. Emma Frost—tall, confident, with a cool gaze that seemed to penetrate everyone in the room. Dressed in a sleek white blazer and trousers, she radiated an aura of luxury and self-assurance. Her long blonde hair fell freely over her shoulders, accentuating her refined beauty, and in her eyes sparkled a mix of intelligence and sophistication.

She noticed Samael and Xavier through the glass door, momentarily pausing her lecture and nodding in their direction. It was clear she was aware of their presence but did not intend to interrupt the lesson for either of them, maintaining full focus on her students. However, Samael sensed something attempting to attack his mind. Fortunately, some time earlier, he had created a power that made him resistant to telepaths' abilities. However, this gave him something to think about; Samael didn't remember much from the comics. But he knew that Emma Frost, known as the White Queen, was extremely dangerous.

Xavier gave Samael a meaningful look. "This is Emma Frost, one of our teachers and someone whose abilities are both powerful and unique. She is one of the strongest telepaths and also possesses the extremely rare ability to turn her skin into diamond, making her nearly indestructible."

"She's… interesting," he muttered quietly to Xavier, trying to hide the shadow of unease that appeared in his eye

Xavier smiled slightly. "Emma has her own unique way of being, but you can always rely on her. She can be strict, but that's one of her strengths, especially when working with young mutants."

"Let's move on," Xavier indicated another hallway, leading Samael out of his momentary contemplation.

The tour continued as Xavier guided Samael through the institute's corridors, sharing stories about its history and mission. Samael couldn't help but notice that the professor had a remarkable gift for conversation—balanced, confident, but not dominating. He could engage with others without imposing his presence. Xavier seemed kind and genuine in every word, which under different circumstances could evoke a certain trust.

Yet Samael felt an inner distance, and although he did not show it to Xavier, his mind was filled with cool calculations. He knew many things that Xavier—despite all his power—could only speculate about. There was indeed something appealing about this institution, almost like a "Hogwarts for Superpeople." Samael briefly considered the prospect of belonging to this community, but his instinct immediately pulled him back to reality.

Freedom was his top priority, and the institute, despite its charm, carried too many restrictions. Being in such a place would mean constant supervision—his absence or even sudden disappearance could raise suspicions. And it wouldn't just be the X-Men who would be interested. Samael was fully aware that on the other side of the barricade lurked the Brotherhood of Mutants, with whom Xavier was engaged in a perpetual game, and according to his meta-knowledge, even the White Queen herself, Emma Frost, was a variable in this balance of power.

Samael scrutinized Xavier, analyzing the details with a look of thoughtful reserve. He knew his plan for the future—a plan that would not tolerate any limitations on his freedom. Upon returning to his estate, he intended to delve into his financial sources, intensify their potential, and—if all went as intended—expand them even further. The key to that lay in technology.

The energy weapon he had taken from Crossbones' men was his inspiration. Samael was already contemplating the possibility of creating a power that would allow him to replicate, enhance, and even modify these technological gains. This way, he could not only expand his influence but also acquire new resources and equipment. He could potentially create a power that would allow him to summon weapons directly from his imagination—though not without cost. Every new skill came with a price, and creating the most powerful ones brought with it indescribable pain.

He remembered the agony that accompanied the creation of regeneration, enhanced skeleton, and nearly indestructible skin. That pain was like an abyss, so piercing that in his darkest moments, thoughts of ending it all would emerge. If there was a way to minimize the development of his powers by relying on technology, Samael intended to take advantage of it—even if it meant facing the darkness of that pain once more.

Twisted logic? Perhaps. But for Samael, anything was better than settling for weak, temporary solutions. He preferred to invest in one painful enhancement when necessary rather than regularly subjecting himself to lighter changes. He believed that this approach would yield the best results, and he had no intention of straying from it.

After some time, Xavier and Samael arrived at the final stop of this peculiar tour, specifically one of the larger laboratories located in the institute's basement. This was where Beast spent 90% of his time, filled with the most advanced equipment Xavier could acquire. And the Danger Room, a truly advanced technology for creating holographic tangible structures and artificial environments made of hard light and numerous devices.

The entrance didn't look particularly mystical or cosmic; it was just a plain steel door reminiscent of those used in the vaults of major banks. However, the sign prohibiting the use of the "Danger Room" for erotic play brought a smile to Samael's face.

Xavier noticed where Samael was looking, but evidently, he had no intention of explaining the story behind the sign. Luckily for him, Hank entered the room wearing his lab coat and approached Samael.

"Glad you're here. Follow me; everything is ready," he said, nodding to them with a smile and gesturing for them to leave the room.

Samael exchanged a brief glance with Xavier, who nodded, encouraging him to follow Hank.

In the next room he entered, Samael immediately noticed that it was a fully equipped chemistry laboratory, with neatly arranged test tubes, advanced optical microscopes, and specialized equipment that only confirmed the high quality of the research conducted at Xavier's Institute. In the corner of the room stood machines analyzing samples—equipment that could pique the interest of many a scientist.

Samael looked around the lab with curiosity, wondering what research might be conducted here on a daily basis. However, after an intense day spent on tours and conversations, his patience was beginning to wear thin. He knew that his main goal of investigating the institute was nearly complete, and the matter of his relationship to Logan had to be resolved.

Hank, as if sensing his mood, turned toward him and offered a warm glance.

— "We won't take much of your time," he assured in a calm voice. "I just want to conduct a few basic tests that will allow us to confirm or rule out any genetic connections."

Samael sighed, nodded, and approached the spot where the sample collection station was already waiting. He continued to analyze every detail of the laboratory, setting aside further questions for later, focusing on finishing the procedure as quickly as possible so he could return to his residence, where more personal plans awaited him.

Hank prepared a set of various tests—starting with blood sample collection, moving on to detailed DNA scans, and concluding with an analysis of regenerative factors. Each device he used had its specific purpose. After completing the blood draw, Hank conducted a genetic test, scanning the samples for common genetic markers that would indicate any familial connections between Samael and Logan.

— "This is a standard genetic testing set," Hank explained, gently sliding the samples under the microscope. "We're trying to identify key markers that indicate a family line. For mutants, these tests can be somewhat more challenging due to our unique mutations, but with the right equipment, we can isolate the most important factors."

Samael nodded, feigning interest, although he was internally suppressing a yawn. He knew the answers were already encoded in his genetic makeup—the one that LiberDictra had cleverly modified to allow his powers to align with Logan's. Samael already knew the truth but had to play this scene without raising suspicions. In his situation, the truth was more convenient to hide than explaining where his abilities truly came from.

He recalled the moment he made the pact with LiberDictra—the brazenly ironic entity offered him everything he desired but didn't hesitate to add a layer of complexity to his story. The genetic tie to Logan was evidently part of her plan. Samael understood that his "family connections" were artificially created, but that detail had to remain his secret.

— "And there you go!" Hank said after finishing the analysis, looking at the results displayed on the screen. "It seems we can confirm something extraordinary." He turned around with a broad smile. "It appears Logan is your… great-grandfather. Likely on your father's side, though we can't be sure of the details without complete data."

Hank smiled widely, winking. "Well, we don't often deal with such… carefully hidden branches of family here. You can call him 'grandpa' or… perhaps it's better to save yourself the trouble."

Samael chuckled softly, his eyes glinting with a cold yet seemingly amused look. He forced himself to laugh lightly.

— "Thanks for the explanation, Doctor McCoy. Perhaps Logan will be more pleased with this 'news' than I am."

Hank laughed, nodding. "Well, I don't expect him to leap for joy, but who knows—maybe he'll even feel some pride. The Wolverine lineage has another representative!"

Samael thanked him, casting one last glance at the lab before bidding farewell to Hank. He left the room, leaving behind the quiet hallway of the Institute, already occupied with entirely different plans for the near future.