As soon as Zenkichi returned home, golden sparks shimmered through the room.
The air began to ripple with energy, forming a glowing ring of light. From within it stepped a bald woman in yellow robes, her presence calm yet overwhelming.
Zenkichi narrowed his eyes.
"The Ancient One… the Sorcerer Supreme?"
The woman smiled gently.
"Young man, you're quite the anomaly."
She took a step forward, her gaze locked on Zenkichi.
"The power within you allows me to glimpse another world. You're not from this universe, are you?"
"Your presence disrupts the natural timeline… I can't trace you anywhere within it."
Zenkichi met her gaze, expression unreadable.
"Then, as Sorcerer Supreme, protector of Earth and the Time Stone… what do you plan to do with me?"
"Expel me? Kill me?"
Although he acknowledged her strength, Zenkichi wasn't intimidated. The Time Stone was her most formidable weapon—beyond that, he knew he was stronger.
"There's no need for conflict," she replied calmly.
"I harbor no hostility toward those from other universes. As long as you don't threaten this Earth, I have no reason to act against you."
"I see no evil in you… I believe you're not the kind to destroy worlds."
She gave a light smile, then added,
"If you ever have time, visit Kamar-Taj. I'm curious about other universes… and your presence intrigues me."
With that, the Sorcerer Supreme turned and disappeared into the glowing portal.
"…That's it?"
Zenkichi had braced himself for battle. He hadn't expected her to let the matter slide so easily. But, truthfully, he was glad. He had no desire to clash with the Ancient One—at least not today.
Just as she vanished, another voice echoed in his mind.
"Hello."
Zenkichi paused.
"Professor X?"
The voice had appeared without warning, sharp and subtle. But Zenkichi quickly recognized it—and its source.
"You're entering my mind uninvited. That's not polite," he replied telepathically, his mental voice calm but firm.
"My apologies," came Professor Xavier's voice. "This is the only method I could use to contact you. But rest assured—I didn't attempt to access your memories."
"Not that it would matter. Your mind is… incredibly well-guarded."
Zenkichi didn't reply immediately.
"Speak your reason for contacting me."
"I want to make it clear first—I'm not a mutant," he added firmly. "So if this is part of some recruitment attempt based on that assumption, don't waste your time."
"A shame," Xavier said softly. "But it doesn't change the fact that your abilities, your position… your existence holds great value."
"Mutants and individuals like you are seen as threats, resources, or weapons. But together, we might stand against the powers that wish to control or destroy us."
Zenkichi responded coolly,
"Maybe you're right… but I'll need time to decide that for myself."
Xavier nodded silently through the connection.
"If ever you feel the need—or see the truth in what I've said—you'll know how to find me."
With that, the telepathic link faded.
Back at the X-Mansion, Beast turned to Professor Xavier.
"Did it fail?"
"Not entirely," Xavier replied. "He may not have joined us now, but I have a feeling he'll return."
---
"Join the Mutant Academy?"
Zenkichi shook his head, amused.
He didn't need their protection, or their teachings. With his current strength, there wasn't much anyone could offer him.
The only thing remotely interesting… was the Phoenix Force residing in Jean Grey. But even that was too advanced, too chaotic—for now.
Just then, a message came through from Tony Stark.
"Zen, just a heads-up. The U.S. military's been poking around. A bunch of high-ranking officials are 'inviting' you to a military base. They're interested in your abilities."
Tony's tone was casual, but the warning was clear.
"I'd tread carefully. They're not looking to give you medals… more like run experiments."
"Really?" Zenkichi smirked. "The U.S. military is always entertaining."
He wasn't threatened. Earth had powerful forces, yes, but the American military wasn't among those who could endanger him.
"They couldn't even contain the Hulk," Zenkichi muttered. "What makes them think they can handle me?"
"The difference is simple… I can control my power. I have full awareness. That makes me ten times more dangerous."
He activated his Kenbunshoku (Observation) Haki, sensing distant presences and subtle movements. His smirk deepened.
Then, his body rose silently into the sky, disappearing above New York. Moments later, he hovered over the vast waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
---
Inside a U.S. Military Command Center…
"The target has left New York!"
"He's over the Atlantic! Requesting naval and aerial support!"
"Special forces stand down. Activate Air Force and Navy units."
Generals and analysts scrambled as they tracked Zenkichi's movements in real time, building strategies, drafting worst-case scenarios.
Inside the situation room, a senior official spoke coldly,
"He was difficult to engage in the city. Now that he's in open waters, we have a better chance."
He narrowed his eyes at the screen.
"We might have a shot".
---
Floating alone above the Atlantic, Zenkichi chuckled softly.
"So now you want to play serious?"
He looked down at the endless blue ocean beneath him.
"Let's see if you're capable."
---
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