Chapter 132. Obtain Speed Force! My name is Quicksilver, is there always someone faster than me?!
Looking at the quaint buildings around him, Logan's expression appeared somewhat sluggish.
"This really came back; how exactly did you do it?"
Logan looked at Hode with a look of shock.
You have to know that the reason why Shadowcat was able to send him back was entirely because he could continuously self-heal.
If it were anyone else, it would simply be impossible to achieve this.
"Do not worry about these details."
Hode looked around with a calm expression.
"According to the Professor's hint, we still have to go find the Professor when he was young next."
Seeing that Hode did not want to talk about it, Logan did not continue to dwell on this matter.
They must find the young Professor X as soon as possible to be able to solve the problem at the root.
"Then let's go together!"
Hode waved his right hand, and accompanied by a burst of golden light, the Dimensional Portal instantly appeared in front of them.
Looking at the Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters on the other side of the Dimensional Portal, Logan's eyes were about to pop out.
"This ability of yours is really outrageous!"
Logan was almost numb; although he did not know how strong Hode was.
But judging from being able to travel through time and space and reach any location at will, this could already be considered a divine skill.
"Thanks for the compliment; let's go over and take a look first."
Hode took the lead and walked through the Dimensional Portal, and Logan followed closely behind.
When they arrived at the Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters, Logan looked around.
The interior of the academy was overgrown with weeds; it was evident that it hadn't been maintained for a long time.
Moreover, it was deathly silent inside, and there wasn't a trace of any other Mutant to be seen.
Upon seeing this, Hode immediately understood what had happened.
Logan stepped forward first and pressed the academy's doorbell.
After waiting for about ten seconds, heavy footsteps could be heard from inside.
Beast Hank, covered in fur and looking like a savage, came to the door and opened it for them.
"Is the Professor home right now?"
Logan went straight to the point; they didn't have much time to waste.
They had to stop Mystique before she made her move.
"Logan, the Professor isn't in a good state right now,"
Beast said in a muffled, gruff voice.
"I'm going to see him!"
Logan walked straight into the academy. When he saw the Professor, with his long, unkempt hair and listless demeanor, he couldn't help but pause in surprise.
At this moment, Charles was slumped on the sofa, holding a bottle of alcohol.
"Logan, why are you here? And you look quite a bit older!"
After seeing Logan, Charles remarked with a mocking, insincere smile and cold eyes.
After all, this Logan had come directly from the future, which was why he looked exceptionally aged.
"Charles, I need your help!"
Logan didn't waste time with small talk and directly asked Charles for assistance.
Because right now, only Charles could help them.
"Help? Don't joke around. I'm nothing more than a cripple now."
As Charles said this, his expression gradually twisted: "Do you know? I can only stand up again if I use drugs!"
But once he used the drugs, he had no way to use his powers.
If he wanted to stand, he would have to be an ordinary person for the rest of his life!
He couldn't imagine spending his whole life in a wheelchair.
"Charles, there is big trouble in the future, which is why I hope you can help us."
Logan took a deep breath and looked at Charles with a grave expression.
"Heh, the future? I don't even have a future; go find someone else!"
Charles was sharp; as soon as he heard this, he knew the Logan in front of him was the one from the future.
But even so, he had absolutely no interest.
"This concerns Mystique Raven; if you don't help, she will die!"
Logan gritted his teeth and looked at Charles, who was not far away.
"Raven... will die?"
Charles, holding the bottle, froze for a moment. He had always treated Raven like his own sister.
So, upon hearing this news, a look of hesitation and struggle appeared on his face.
"Yes, and it's not just Raven; in the future, we all die!"
Logan gritted his teeth, his face filled with unwillingness.
Ever since the Sentinel appeared, too many people had died.
He no longer wanted to watch his fellow kin die one by one.
"What does that have to do with me? Everyone eventually faces Death!"
Charles clenched his fists and smashed the bottle in his hand onto the floor.
In an instant, shards of broken glass scattered everywhere.
Every time he thought about his crippled legs, all sorts of negative emotions welled up inside him.
He had even contemplated Death more than once; for him, this was nothing short of endless torture.
"Logan, let it be. The Professor, he..."
Beast looked at Charles's frantic state and couldn't help but speak up to dissuade him.
After all, Charles had changed; otherwise, the academy wouldn't have turned into what it was today.
"I didn't expect that Professor X, Charles, would actually choose to wallow in despair!"
Hode, standing to the side, said in a teasing tone: "Since that's the case, why don't you take a look at the future first!"
In truth, he knew that Charles would definitely help in the end, but he didn't want to watch someone acting hysterical.
Furthermore, he didn't have that much time to watch Charles in such a listless state.
"Who are you?"
Charles frowned and looked at Hode; he had never seen this person before.
And judging by this person's appearance, he didn't seem to be from this era either.
After all, he already knew that Logan had come from the future, so this person must have come from the future as well.
"Me? Who I am doesn't matter much. It's just that I have some things I want you to see."
After saying this, Hode walked straight up to Charles and pressed his index finger against Charles's forehead.
The next second, everything about the future appeared in Charles's mind.
A group of Mutants were fighting against the terrifying Sentinel in order to survive, but no matter how they struggled, they were no match for the Sentinel.
And even more terrifying was that the Sentinel was almost immortal and indestructible.
Because of Mystique, he could tell with just a single glance, just as they had said.
These Sentinel were truly developed using Mystique's DNA, because when they transformed.
The scales on their bodies would ripple; this was clearly something only Mystique could do.
"This..."
Charles's pupils trembled, and his expression became extremely serious.
Now he finally understood why Logan had demanded his help so strongly.
"Now do you understand what has happened?"
Hode said slowly with a calm expression.
Although Charles had been wallowing in despair, after seeing all of this, a sense of responsibility would inevitably surge within him.
"I... am willing to help."
Charles took a deep breath, gritted his teeth, and said slowly.
If this was really the case, he certainly couldn't stand idly by.
Moreover, he had actually already wavered just a moment ago; he couldn't just watch Raven die.
"By the way, I have another surprise for you."
Hode slowly raised his hand, and a terrifying dark red light emerged from his right hand.
The moment the light appeared, Charles widened his eyes.
Although his powers were currently suppressed by drugs, he could feel that this energy contained an incredibly terrifying vitality.
The moment the Phoenix Force appeared, the withered bonsai on the surrounding windowsills actually began to regain vitality.
Even the withered ivy outside the house began to spread and grow at this moment.
It was as if a fast-forward button had been pressed; one could even watch the surroundings change with their own eyes.
And the next second, Hode injected the Phoenix Forcedirectly into Charles's body.
The moment the Phoenix Force entered his body, Charlesimmediately widened his eyes.
Because he could clearly feel that his feet finally had a distinct sensation.
Furthermore, the drugs in his system began to dissipate with the appearance of the Phoenix Force.
Accompanying this was his powers returning to him.
"I'm actually healed?!"
The moment Hode withdrew his energy, he couldn't help but scream out.
He had never imagined that there would come a day when his legs could move again.
Although he could restore his ability to walk through drugs, without his superpowers, he would have no use at all.
But now, he could even use his powers freely; how could he not be thrilled?
"Let's go!"
Hode's lips curled up slightly.
[Ding! You have healed Professor X Charles's legs!]
[Distributing rewards!]
[Congratulations, you have obtained the Speed Force!]
Just at this moment, the system's voice suddenly rang out.
Speed Force?
Hode was stunned for a moment upon hearing this reward.
Although he currently possessed super-high movement speed, it was ultimately very different from the Speed Force.
That was, he couldn't control his power with precision when he was moving.
But after possessing the Speed Force, it was completely different.
He could not only make himself faster, but he could even make the things around him seem to slow down.
"We need to go invite someone next, and what you need to do is find the location of Magneto."
Charles frowned and thought for a moment before giving his answer.
Although they knew Magneto was at The Pentagon, they didn't know the specific location.
And only he would be able to get Quicksilver to help them.
"Alright then, we'll go first."
Hode didn't hesitate further. In truth, if he wanted to, he could have completely ended the whole matter directly.
It was just that as someone participating in the story, the most important thing was to experience the course of events.
After speaking, Hode opened a Dimensional Portal and took Logan to The Pentagon.
"This person is truly unfathomable!"
Charles watched Hode's retreating figure and couldn't help but sigh in his heart.
"Professor, let's go to Quicksilver's place now!"
Beast took the initiative to speak, brought the car out, and drove Charles quickly to Quicksilver's home.
...
Outside The Pentagon.
"Hode, how should we get in now?"
Logan looked at the impregnable The Pentagon and couldn't help but feel a headache.
Although he certainly couldn't die, it was absolutely impossible for him to storm his way in.
Not to mention anything else, just figuring out their patrol was a problem in itself.
Right! Can that portal of yours get us inside?"
Logan slapped the back of his head, speaking with an excited expression.
"I can."
Hode nodded without hesitation.
There weren't many existences left that could block his Dimensional Portal now.
Entering The Pentagon was as simple as drinking water.
"Then open it quickly!"
Logan clenched his fists, his voice filled with excitement.
Even though he was immortal, he didn't want to get beaten up!
"I don't want to. That's too boring!"
Hode shook his head, pouting slightly as he spoke with a calm expression.
"But if we don't do that, how are we supposed to get in!"
Logan frowned, asking in a confused tone.
"How to get in?"
Hode looked at Logan as if looking at an idiot: "Is there something wrong with your legs too, like Charles? We're obviously walking in!"
After saying that, Hode took the lead and walked toward the main entrance of The Pentagon.
Watching Hode walk out, Logan was stunned.
Is he freaking crazy? He has an easy way but refuses to use it, insisting on taking the most difficult path?!
But he couldn't just sit back and watch now, so he could only bite the bullet and follow.
"Who are you?!"
"Leave immediately!"
Before Hode could even get close, the guards had already noticed the two of them and raised their firearms one after another.
"My god, this is really going to hurt!"
Logan grit his teeth, and his claws instantly popped out from his arms.
With so many bullets hitting him, he would be turned into a sieve.
"Fire!"
When the guards saw the claws popping out of Wolverine's hands, they pulled their triggers without a word.
They would shoot anyone who might be an intruder without hesitation.
But the moment they fired, a smile appeared at the corner of Hode's mouth.
With just a single thought, a thick ice wall instantly rose up in front of them.
The bullets hit it and were even directly bounced off!
This scene made their brains stall.
And an even more terrifying scene happened at this moment; frost was seen rapidly spreading along the ground.
In just a few seconds, it had covered the entire Pentagon.
Every guard in sight was turned into a sparkling ice sculpture at this very moment.
"What is going on with this ability of yours! Why can you also release ice!"
Logan felt completely overwhelmed. Although Iceman could do this, it was definitely not with such ease.
Moreover, he had dealt with everyone outside The Pentagon in the blink of an eye.
"It's just strength, nothing to be done."
Hode didn't elaborate, only the corners of his mouth curled up slightly.
Although the Phoenix Force would be stronger, who throws out their trump card right at the start of a card game?
The next scene made Logan's brain spin even more.
Because the people inside already knew there was an intruder, they locked the entrance doors immediately.
One must know that every door here was several meters thick.
But Hode just snapped his fingers, and the heavy iron door melted directly.
Logan felt like he was just along for a sightseeing tour.
Hardly anyone could resist Hode, and they soon arrived before the imprisoned Magneto.
"Hey, we're here to rescue you!"
Hode's lips curled up as he looked down at Magneto and spoke indifferently.
At the same time, Charles and Beast also arrived outside The Pentagon with a silver-haired youth.
But when they saw the ice sculptures outside, they were all stunned.
"What on earth is going on!"
Charles instantly thought of Hode from earlier.
Bang, bang, bang!
Before they could think further, they suddenly heard gunshots from a distance.
In the next second, everything around Quicksilver began to slow down rapidly.
He unhurriedly put on his goggles, and his entire being instantly vanished from the spot.
When he reappeared, the twenty-odd soldiers who had come to provide backup from afar were all sent flying.
And the bullets they fired all hit the large trees nearby.
"This speed is too terrifying!"
Beast's eyes widened.
"He's much faster than we imagined!"
The Professor said in a confident tone.
After all, Quicksilver's greatest asset was that terrifying speed.
At that moment, more soldiers arrived from a distance, having rushed over immediately after learning of the attack.
"Professor, I'll go take care of them first!"
Quicksilver crossed his arms and vanished instantly after leaving those words.
At this moment, everything in the surroundings slowed down.
Just as Quicksilver was about to act, his eyes suddenly widened.
A figure appeared in Quicksilver's field of vision.
"Was this person here just now?!"
In the next second, that person vanished from before his eyes and appeared beside him.
"How is it possible? His speed is actually faster than mine!"
The running Quicksilver's eyes bulged.
Hode looked at the Quicksilver beside him with a relaxed expression.
"This Speed Force is truly interesting."
Chapter 133: Relentless, Mr. Big Scene Magneto Enraged, Destroying Everything!
Who exactly is he?
Quicksilver's mouth hung open slightly, his eyes bulging round.
He had never seen anyone faster than him in his life, but this person's speed was not only faster than his but also much more effortless.
"I don't believe you can be faster than me!"
Gritting his teeth, he pushed his ability to its full potential.
Everything around him slowed down once more, to the point where everything seemed to have come to a standstill.
But at this moment, he saw a scene that made his heart collapse.
Because the man beside him actually overtook him at a walking pace, with a playful look on his face.
Keep in mind that he was now using his speed at full power, even running continuously.
Yet this man clearly showed no sign of urgency, as if slowing down time was as easy as drinking water.
He could clearly see the man calmly overtaking him, strolling toward the soldiers in the distance.
Using his fingers, he lightly tapped different parts of the cars and the soldiers, and then unhurriedly walked back toward him.
When passing him, he even lightly patted his shoulder and said something.
But because sound propagation was an issue, he couldn't hear Hode's words at all.
After doing all this, Hode directly stopped the Speed Force.
Next second!
Boom, bang!
The soldiers and cars in the distance all flew off in different directions.
Meanwhile, Quicksilver stood frozen on the spot.
"Young man, you're still not fast enough!"
By the time the voice reached Quicksilver's ears, Hode had already returned to the middle of Professor X and Beast.
This happened so quickly that all Professor X and Beastcould see in an instant was those soldiers being sent flying.
And Quicksilver was standing not far away.
"Quicksilver's strength is too great!"
Beast's voice was trembling slightly; he had always thought his own strength was decent.
But in front of Quicksilver, he was simply an existence to be toyed with.
Even Professor X couldn't help but marvel secretly; this ability was indeed very strong.
But just then, Professor X suddenly realized something was wrong. If Quicksilver was over there, then who was the person standing beside him?
He turned his head to look, only to see Hode standing beside him with his hands in his pockets.
"Hode? When did you come over?!"
Professor X was completely bewildered, unable to understand what was going on.
He had only felt a slight breeze blow by, and then Hodehad appeared beside him.
Beast was even more startled; he hadn't reacted at all just now.
Although he knew there was someone beside him, he had thought it was Quicksilver.
After coming to his senses, he was completely stunned.
Whoosh!
In the next second, Quicksilver had already arrived before Professor X: "Professor X, you've already called such a powerful guy, yet you still called me over."
He truly felt he had suffered a great blow. After all, he needed to run to overcome it, but Hode only needed to walk to overtake him in the same amount of time.
It was absolutely impossible to say he didn't feel discouraged.
Moreover, since such a strong guy had been found, there was no point in him coming at all.
One could even say that this guy was far stronger than himself.
"You... what do you mean by that?"
Charles looked at Quicksilver with a face full of confusion.
He had absolutely no idea what was going on right now.
Although Hode had appeared right next to him, his first thought was still that Hode had come through a portal.
After all, he also knew that Hode possessed teleportation abilities.
"What do you mean? This guy is even faster than me!"
Quicksilver was so anxious he was about to jump. Bringing someone so incredibly strong along was practically playing a joke on him.
Furthermore, the words that guy had just said were a massive blow to him.
To actually say that he wasn't even as fast as him—for someone who took immense pride in his speed, it was like a stab to the heart.
"What?!"
Hearing this, Charles was completely stunned. He truly hadn't expected Hode's speed to be even faster than Quicksilver's!
The reason he had specifically sought out Quicksilver was because Quicksilver's ability was so powerful.
Not only could he make things vibrate to destroy them, but more importantly, he was incredibly fast.
Virtually no one could catch Quicksilver.
Yet now, Hode was actually faster than Quicksilver. He couldn't even fathom how many abilities Hode possessed.
He also noticed the frost outside. Needless to say, this must have been Hode's doing.
And then there was healing his legs, the portals, and now extreme speed.
He could even travel through time and space. To think all these abilities were concentrated in a single person.
This was no longer just a "bug"; it could be said to have completely exceeded his imagination.
"Others call me a monster, but I think you're the real monster."
Beast's lips twitched as he spoke in a wary tone.
Setting everything else aside, possessing so many abilities meant he could easily overturn the World.
For example, with time travel, even if he encountered a stronger enemy, he could just travel through time to deal with them before they grew powerful.
It could even be said that under these conditions, he was practically an invincible existence.
"Don't mind it, I'm just an ordinary person."
Hode pursed his lips and looked at them with a faint smile.
"What kind of ordinary person can easily break someone out of The Pentagon?"
Honestly, if it weren't for Hode healing his legs, Charleswould have suspected Hode was just here to mess with him.
Leaving everything else aside, with Hode's abilities, rescuing Charles would have been incredibly easy.
It could even be said that there was absolutely no need to look for him.
"By the way, where is Magneto Erik?"
Just then, Beast suddenly remembered the main business.
Since Hode was here, Magneto should have been brought out as well.
"Oh, they should be on their way out right now."
Hode pointed towards The Pentagon and said casually.
The reason he came out first was simply to test the Speed Force he had just obtained.
It had to be said that although his own speed could also reach this level,
the feeling after using the Speed Force was completely different.
Moreover, compared to pure speed, using the Speed Forcewas much more comfortable.
Combined with his already extremely fast speed, after using the Speed Force, he could easily reach his maximum speed.
Furthermore, there would also be a significant difference in how he controlled his power.
It could be said that before having the Speed Force, although he could keep up with Quicksilver and even defeat him easily,
utilizing his speed would definitely not have been so effortless.
"That's good then!"
Charles looked at Hode with a complex expression.
In the past, there were still quite a few people he was wary of, but now his feelings toward Hode were a mix of gratitude and wariness.
After all, if Hode wanted to destroy this World or achieve his own goals, it would be far too simple.
It could even be said that as long as Hode wished, no Mutant in this World would be able to deal with him.
"Hode, you came out way too fast!"
Just then, Logan's voice came from the distance.
Logan could be seen walking out with Magneto Erik.
Earlier, when Hode said he was going out first, Logan had wondered if they would run into any pursuers or obstacles.
But he never expected that the entire path would look as if it had been heavily devastated.
Even the heavy steel door had a massive hole blasted right through it by Hode.
There wasn't even anyone to block their way; in just a single entry and exit, all the enemies in The Pentagon had been dealt with.
Although he had indeed guessed that Hode was very powerful and had witnessed his capabilities, he had truly never seen an existence so ridiculously strong.
Even Eric's face was filled with extreme wariness when he looked at Hode.
He knew just how arrogant Eric was, yet even such an arrogant guy actually felt fear.
"I can only say that you guys are too slow."
Hode shrugged, then pulled a pack of cigarettes out of his pocket.
After lighting a cigarette, he exhaled a long drag of smoke.
At this moment, the gazes of Magneto Erik and Professor X Charles locked.
Neither of them spoke, continuously sizing each other up.
Both of their eyes were filled with complex emotions.
At this moment, Eric also noticed that Charles was actually standing.
Seeing this, he actually let out a subconscious sigh of relief.
Previously, he had accidentally paralyzed Charles, but fortunately, Charles was now standing.
Charles also noticed Eric's gaze: "Eric, you didn't expect this, did you? I was paralyzed for several years, but now I'm standing again."
He had never thought he would see the day he could stand on his own feet again.
This made him sigh with emotion in his heart once more.
If he hadn't met Hode, he would never have been able to stand for the rest of his life.
Although he could have taken medication, the side effects were simply too severe.
Eric looked at Charles but ultimately remained silent.
Right at that moment, even more soldiers appeared in the distance.
Armored vehicles and helicopters could even be seen.
"It seems this isn't a good place to chat. Let's move somewhere else to talk."
Logan looked at the dense crowd of soldiers in the distance and spoke in a helpless tone.
Although they could indeed deal with them, the soldiers would surely keep coming in endless waves.
They would absolutely never allow Magneto Erik to just walk free.
Moreover, those people at the top had always cared deeply about their reputation.
So, they might as well just change locations.
"Fair enough. Professor, do you have any black tea at your place?"
Hode nodded slightly; he naturally didn't want to continue wasting time here either.
Besides, many of the soldiers were innocent, and there was absolutely no need to kill them all.
Since that was the case, they might as well just leave.
"I actually do have a private reserve of black tea."
Charles said without hesitation.
It was a gift from an old friend.
He had been reluctant to drink it before, and after he became paralyzed, he never touched it again.
He had mostly been drowning his sorrows in alcohol.
But now was the perfect time to bring it out and celebrate.
"In that case, let me take everyone out of here first!"
Quicksilver volunteered. With his speed, he could quickly relocate everyone.
But Hode waved his hand and said in a calm tone, "No need to tire yourself out like that!"
With that, a brilliant, flowing beam of light appeared beside them.
And the other end of the light actually led to Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters.
"You can actually teleport directly?!"
Quicksilver's head was buzzing. For the first time, he felt completely powerless.
Someone so powerful actually possessed teleportation abilities too—how was anyone else supposed to compete?
In other words, not only was he faster than him, but he could also travel to any location in the World at will.
"Teleportation?"
Eric frowned. He was startled for a moment, then asked in confusion, "Since you could have just teleported in to get me, why did you break into The Pentagon directly?"
Although he was imprisoned inside, it didn't restrict other abilities at all.
So he really could have just teleported directly into his cell and taken him away.
"Right, I only just realized that. Don't tell me you only did that because you wanted to make a scene?"
Beast also realized.
With teleportation, he could have just taken Eric directly.
Yet he went out of his way to make it so complicated.
"Don't sweat the details. Let's leave first."
Hode's expression was a bit awkward. He couldn't exactly say he was trying to keep the original timeline on track!
After all, in the original timeline, Quicksilver basically broke in by force as well.
Besides, he needed to experience such major events to obtain rewards.
So it wasn't really that he wanted to do it this way.
Looking at Hode's expression, a single thought cropped up in everyone's mind.
And that was: Hode clearly just wanted to make a scene.
Otherwise, there was absolutely no need for it.
Consequently, another label was added to their impression of Hode.
He acted eccentrically and did things without the slightest regard for the consequences.
But the more someone was like this, the more they felt afraid of him.
Hode led everyone directly across the Dimensional Portal.
Upon returning to Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters, Charles immediately brewed some black tea and served it to Hode.
"By the way, you guys went to all the trouble of getting me out surely not just to let me sightsee, right?"
At this moment, Eric sat with his legs crossed and took the initiative to ask.
After all, if they really wanted him out, they would have helped a long time ago.
He didn't think Charles would come specifically to help him; after all, Charles surely couldn't hate him enough.
There must be something he could help with.
Logan took a deep breath and told Magneto Ericeverything that would happen in the future.
"Damn humans! These guys actually want us to disappear! In that case, I'll kill them all!"
Eric clenched his fists, and the steel around him began to vibrate incessantly.
His eyes were filled with intense killing intent.
Since the other side planned to eliminate them first, he could very well take the initiative to eliminate humanity.
By then, only Mutants (705u.com-53 Reading Club) would be left in the World, and then absolutely no one would think of eliminating them.
"I am human."
At that moment, Hode's words left Eric stunned.
Even the expressions on the others' faces became incredibly strange.
"Yes, he is indeed human; he is not one of our Mutants."
At that moment, Logan nodded slowly in agreement.
"Actually, my idea is to let the two races coexist peacefully!"
Charles had always hoped that everyone could live together in harmony.
After all, even if humanity was dealt with, it wouldn't fundamentally change the problem.
After all, among Mutants, there are both strong and weak ones.
The reason they were so wary and wanted to eliminate Mutants...
...was entirely because they felt the gap in power between the two sides.
Just then, a faint vibration suddenly came from outside.
Charles frowned slightly: "They actually came so quickly."
Everyone stood up and looked out the window, only to see a large number of sentinel robots appearing in the distant sky.
The sentinel robots at this time were more like suits of armor; although they looked sharp, they still relied on thermal weapons.
Seeing this, Hode was first stunned, then understood instantly.
This was clearly because the commotion he caused at The Pentagon was too great, so the government had directly dispatched the sentinel robots ahead of schedule.
"Since they're here, leave them to me!"
Eric's eyes were filled with anger as he used his ability to pull open the window and fly out.
[Locked! Mutant!]
The sentinel robots locked onto Eric immediately.
The sentinel robots were instantly torn to pieces.
The ground was churning continuously like an earth dragon.
Everything around was vibrating constantly, as if an earthquake had occurred.
As he slowly raised his right hand, the buildings in the distance began to creak and groan.
Controlled by a terrifying magnetic field, they rose into the air, and the steel bars within them twisted continuously.
They flew toward the distance with a sudden force, instantly piercing through the sentinel robots.
In just a moment, all the sentinel robots were turned into pieces of scrap metal.
Chapter 134: Since the problem cannot be solved, then create a new Universe with your bare hands!
As the fragments fell to the ground, a cold glint flashed in Eric's eyes.
If it weren't for Hode being there, he would have surely let humanity know what the wrath of a Mutant truly was today.
Just because of fear and other reasons, they actually wanted to drive them to extinction.
He had always believed that humans were inherently inferior, and only Mutants could truly rule the World.
If Charles hadn't been stopping him, he would have slaughtered all those damn humans long ago.
He didn't expect that even though they had been so merciful, these damn humans still refused to let them go.
Meanwhile, even more sentinel robots were rushing toward them rapidly.
"Ignorant, foolish, seeking your own Death!"
Eric yanked his right hand, and those sentinel robots in flight were instantly crushed into iron discs.
As he clenched his hands, the surfaces of these iron discs actually became increasingly smooth.
It was as if they were smooth mirrors.
"Hmph!"
He snorted coldly, and the iron discs flew rapidly through the air at extreme speed.
In an instant, they sliced all the surrounding sentinel robots into several pieces.
Even though some sentinel robots tried to fire before being destroyed...
...the bullets fired had no effect on Eric at all.
They simply stopped in front of him.
After having accidentally deflected a bullet and injuring Charles before...
...he never directly deflected bullets like that again.
At the same time, more and more armored cars and tanks appeared around them.
They were even accompanied by many soldiers.
Seeing this, Eric's eyes became even more furious.
This was simply relentless harassment!
Meanwhile.
Inside the Academy.
"I'll watch the left side; you're responsible for dealing with the enemies on the right!"
Logan clenched his fists and exerted force, his claws instantly extending from his knuckles.
"No problem, leave this kind of thing to me!"
Quicksilver agreed without hesitation.
In an instant, time seemed to stand still.
Quicksilver ran outside quickly, and when he encountered those advancing soldiers...
...he simply aimed their hands at their own cheeks and gave them a slight push before quickly moving to the next target.
As for the armored cars and tanks, he quickly brought tape from the Academy and sealed the observation ports tightly.
At the same time, he used iron rods to dismantle key wheels or tracks.
The moment he let time flow again, the enemies on the right had all been dealt with.
Tanks and armored cars were instantly damaged or crashed into the nearby woods because they lost visibility.
As for the soldiers, they were all knocked back by their own fists.
As for Logan's side, he shuttled quickly through the woods.
Although many bullets hit his body, it was practically painless and harmless to him.
His speed even increased, and once he got close enough to start melee combat, Logan became the enemies' nightmare.
Because no matter how they attacked, even if they broke Logan's arm, it would recover quickly.
"Attack! Do not fear them!"
The General in command at the moment mobilized more soldiers to rush toward their direction.
As far as the eye could see, there were tanks and soldiers everywhere.
"You damn fools, I already gave you a chance!"
Eric's expression became solemn, and he flicked his hands upward.
A terrifying scene appeared before their eyes as the tanks and armored cars on the ground slowly floated into the air.
All the soldiers couldn't help but look back, as if they were seeing a nightmare.
These were the weapons they were most proud of, yet in front of Eric, they were like toys.
With just a single thought, he had made all these weapons hover.
"Eric, this isn't the result we want!"
Seeing the killing intent in Eric's eyes, Charles hurried out to stop him.
He knew very well that Eric was now full of rage, and with Eric's abilities, destroying the army in front of him would be a simple task.
It could even be said that once Eric was provoked to anger, it was basically impossible for anyone to stop him.
The reason he was able to act against Eric before was entirely because Eric had never truly been serious with him.
But if Eric really dealt with these soldiers, the consequence would be that the government would directly declare war on all Mutants.
He was unwilling to see such a scene no matter what.
"Charles, do you still not see these people's true faces even now?"
Indifference flickered in Eric's eyes.
In his view, being soft-hearted no longer served any purpose, and he... could completely change this World.
"You damn Mutants, surrender obediently, or you will face the most violent attacks and sanctions!"
A pot-bellied General shouted through a microphone at Eric in the sky.
He didn't believe that with the soldiers under his command, he couldn't deal with these Mutants.
"Heh..."
Eric (705u.com-53 Reading Club) sneered as he looked down at the General.
As it turned out, even now, they still hadn't figured out the gap between them.
They were even still daydreaming about dealing with them.
Just as he was about to let go, a figure appeared beside him.
"Eric, that's enough."
Hode spoke slowly with a calm voice.
He could see that there was only hatred and anger in Eric's eyes now.
However, he could not allow Eric to cause such massive destruction.
At that moment, Hode's peripheral vision suddenly noticed a dwarf next to the General.
"Bolivar Trask?!"
Hode recognized him the moment he saw him; this guy was the inventor of the Sentinels.
However, he didn't pay any attention to him for now, but instead shifted his gaze to Eric.
"No one can stop me now, not even you!"
Eric looked at Hode with cold eyes.
As he spoke, a piece of iron wire slowly crawled up Hode's body.
It then wrapped around Hode's neck.
Now, with just a single thought, he could make Hode die just like that.
I said, you'd better calm down!"
After saying that, with a thought from Hode, the iron wires on his body slowly dissipated.
At the same time, with a wave of his right hand, the tanks and armored vehicles floating in the air slowly landed on the ground.
Immediately after, Eric's eyes widened because he clearly felt his mind being invaded.
And the person invading his mind was clearly Hode, who was standing right in front of him.
He saw Hode slowly landing on the ground with him.
And Eric, controlled by him, was forced to kneel down in front of him.
"Behave yourself. Your ability is not invincible."
Only after saying this did Hode stride toward the general.
As Hode walked toward them, the surrounding soldiers aimed their guns at him.
"Trust me, your weapons are of no use against me, and I really hate it when people point guns at me."
Hode said indifferently, looking at the general in front of him.
Seeing that the general made no response, the corners of his mouth curled up slightly.
In the next second, as if they had lost their minds, those soldiers quickly disassembled their firearms and unloaded all the bullets.
When they snapped out of it, they stared at the pile of firearm parts on the ground in a daze.
"Are you rebelling against us?"
The general gritted his teeth, staring straight at Hode.
The more he looked at these Mutants, the more wary he became in his heart.
But the more it was like this, the more he wanted to eradicate all Mutants.
They were simply the most unstable existence in society.
"I just want you to pack up and leave."
Hode spread his hands and shrugged indifferently.
After all, if this continued, things would probably deviate from the original timeline.
"Leave?! It is absolutely impossible for us to leave!"
The general glared furiously at Hode.
Just at this moment, Bolivar Trask slowly walked out.
"I believe Mutants are inherently very dangerous, so you must cooperate with our actions."
"After all, if you are allowed to roam free, you will become the most terrifying criminals."
As Bolivar Trask spoke, his short hands waved constantly.
His eyes were even filled with fanaticism.
"You are simply too foolish. Humans are actually not weak, and there's absolutely no need to be frightened to this extent."
Hode looked coldly at the seemingly crazed Bolivar Trask.
This guy's behavior was far more extreme than he had imagined.
But it was also because of this that Bolivar Trask would make such insane decisions later on.
"You are a Mutant, so naturally you would think so. No one is willing to give up their power!"
Bolivar Trask looked up, glaring furiously at Hode.
He felt that his ideas could absolutely not be wrong, and everything he was doing now was for the future of humanity.
Yet this damn Mutant in front of him actually dared to think his ideas were wrong.
"Actually, I am a human."
Hode put his hands in his pockets, looking indifferently at Bolivar Trask.
"You are human? That is simply the funniest joke I've ever heard."
The general laughed out loud, appearing extremely crazed and disdainful.
He had just witnessed Hode's ability. If he were human, it would be absolutely impossible to possess such formidable strength.
But right at this moment, Bolivar Trask's expression became somewhat stiff.
"He indeed is human!"
The moment Bolivar Trask heard Hode's words, he had a sentinel robot scan Hode.
And the results turned out to be that Hode really wasn't a Mutant.
"He's human?!"
The general was dumbfounded. He knew Bolivar Traskwould absolutely not lie to him.
But after hesitating for a moment, he still gritted his teeth and said, "But even if you're human, you are still colluding with those damn Mutants!"
In his eyes, anyone who associated with Mutants was an enemy of humanity.
"It seems you really are hopelessly stubborn. In that case, you can go to hell!"
Hode had lost all interest in continuing to argue with the general.
With just a single glance, the dark red Phoenix Forceinstantly enveloped the general.
"Ah!!!"
The general's body actually began to slowly dissipate, like flying ash.
In the blink of an eye, any trace of the general's existence was completely obliterated by Hode.
Charles, watching this from not far away, was completely stunned.
They had agreed on a peaceful resolution, so why did he suddenly take action?
And this move was so sudden that it caught them completely guard.
He wanted to step forward to stop him, but thinking of Hode's strength, he stopped in his tracks.
Because judging from his past actions, Hode was clearly an eccentric and unpredictable person.
And in this situation, it was simply impossible for him to dissuade Hode.
After all, this wasn't Eric. The reason Eric was willing to listen to him was because they were friends.
"You bastard, you actually killed the general!"
Seeing the general disappear, Bolivar Trask became incredibly furious.
He was even stomping his feet in anger, staring straight at Hode.
One must know that the general had been funding his research. Now that the general was dead, what would happen to his follow-up research?
"You should have seen the truth, and I will definitely develop Sentinels that can deal with all Mutants!"
Bolivar Trask gritted his teeth as he looked at everyone present.
He wanted everyone to see the truth clearly. As long as he was willing, the Sentinels could completely become the best choice to protect the World.
"Hode, kill this guy!"
At this moment, Logan slowly walked over, his jeans already stained red with blood. "Get rid of him, and the sentinel robots won't appear!"
Although Mystique had done something similar before, her DNA had been left behind.
So if they took action directly, Bolivar Trask would definitely not be able to continue researching the sentinel robots.
"The sentinel robots are actually not the root cause of extinction."
Hode only spared Logan a faint glance.
He knew very well that even without the Sentinels, due to genetically modified foods and medications later on,
the Mutants would still eventually head toward extinction.
"Then what is the root cause of our extinction?"
Logan knew that Hode wasn't joking with these words.
After all, Hode was capable of traveling through time, so he probably already knew everything about the future.
"Forget it, I know what needs to be done."
Hode shook his head and sighed.
To resolve this matter, he ultimately had to strike at the root.
In the next second, countless dark red energies instantly engulfed the entire Universe.
The moment the Phoenix Force appeared, it began to constantly warp reality.
Everything around them was constantly disappearing and then reshaping.
The Professor, Magneto, Logan, Beast, Quicksilver, and the others found everything around them instantly vanishing.
And what appeared before them was an incomparably brilliant and beautiful galaxy.
The galaxy was like a ribbon of light, wrapping them all together.
In the darkness, this brought an increasing sense of peace to their hearts.
Even a smile inadvertently appeared on the corners of their mouths.
Charles looked at Hode, and at this moment, he seemed to understand something.
Just then, Hode brought his hands together.
The Universe's transformation grew even faster. In just a blink of an eye, everyone's bodies began to gradually fade.
Even Logan's body began to fade and disappear, though he felt no pain during this disappearance.
Instead, it was an indescribable sensation, as if his entire body were immersed in a hot spring.
As Logan opened his eyes once more, he found himself lying in bed.
The date on the wall showed that he had returned to the twenty-first century.
"What happened to me?"
Logan couldn't help but mutter, a hint of confusion still in his eyes.
He looked at the room; it was a very typical, luxurious European-style room.
Outside, children were playing and frolicking, and everything seemed so harmonious and warm.
Just as he was in a daze, countless memories suddenly flooded into his mind.
As the door opened, an elderly Charles walked in.
"What on earth is happening now?"
He looked at Charles and spoke with a bewildered expression.
"You succeeded."
The corners of Charles's mouth curled up. Although it was already the future, he inherited the memories of the past.
Logan looked at Charles in front of him, his expression still filled with disbelief.
All of this felt like a dream. After all, reshaping a Universewas truly too incredible.
He got up and walked toward the hall in his slippers.
He saw Hode sitting in the living room as well, making Clarice burst into laughter.
Seeing this scene, Logan muttered, "This guy is actually still here. It seems everything wasn't a dream."
Chapter 135: Hode Embracing Left and Right, WandaCatches Him Red-Handed!
"When I have time, I'll take you to other places for a good look around."
Hode imperceptibly released Clarice's hand and gently pinched her cheek.
It had to be said that the sensory experience brought by different races was indeed very different!
Taking Clarice for example, she could already score a 95 in his heart.
What's more, the current Clarice was even younger than before he came to this World.
"Alright, then you must not forget!"
Clarice said, looking at Hode with expectant eyes.
Hode had just told her so much about other Universes, and just listening to it filled her face with excitement.
"Rest assured, as long as it's something I've promised, I will do my best to achieve it."
After Hode finished speaking, he stood up and walked toward Logan. "I thought you would sleep for a much longer time."
After all, Logan had been in a deep sleep ever since they returned.
"How on earth did you do it?"
Logan sized Hode up with a strange expression, as if he were looking at a monster.
After all, everything he had done was simply too unbelievable.
It could even be said that he had completely changed everything that had occurred.
This kind of ability was completely beyond his comprehension; even an Omega-level Mutant couldn't do something so terrifying.
"I only made a minor change. Since we want to coexist peacefully, it wasn't that difficult."
Hode spread his hands, the corners of his mouth curving up slightly, as if he had done something of no consequence.
After all, this wasn't a big deal for him; he had merely reshaped things using the Phoenix Force.
He only needed to delete and alter those thoughts that opposed the existence of Mutants.
And once those thoughts were gone, the future timeline would naturally change.
Besides, this also had a benefit: all humans would take it for granted that Mutants and humans should coexist.
Naturally, this would inevitably integrate Mutants into human society, as that was the only way to truly live in harmony.
As a result, many Mutants in this World had already begun working in official government positions.
As for Professor X's academy, it was naturally preserved, and all Mutants who now wanted to go to work normally had to undergo training here.
They would only be allowed to leave once they learned how to control the power within themselves.
Moreover, another point was that this would also help maintain social stability.
"You can actually change everyone's future and lives!"
Logan couldn't help but feel a chill run down his spine, with nothing but fear left in his eyes.
In other words, this was no longer just about erasing someone.
Instead, it allowed a person's future to be altered according to Hode's wishes.
Although the biggest problem had been resolved, this feeling made Logan unable to stop trembling.
After all, no one wanted their life to be controlled by someone else; this was simply no different from being a Creator.
"Don't worry, I only changed a few things slightly, and the general direction of the World hasn't changed much."
Hode spread his hands and shrugged.
What he mainly did was alter those people's extreme thoughts.
At the same time, he restored the things that had been destroyed back then; he basically didn't change anything else.
"But this completely goes against our will!"
Logan clutched his head, looking at Hode with a terrified expression.
Even he himself wasn't sure if his own memories had been altered.
Although he remembered what happened back then very clearly, this might just be a part of Hode's design.
At this thought, his body couldn't stop shaking.
As he spoke, his claws involuntarily popped out.
However, he didn't feel any of the pain it usually brought this time; all he could feel was panic toward the person in front of him.
"Logan, calm down."
Just then, Charles walked out of the room and placed his hand on Logan's shoulder.
In fact, he could understand Logan's thoughts and fear.
After all, he had also watched with his own eyes as Hodealtered the entire Universe with a single thought.
This kind of power was beyond merely terrifying; he was even certain that Hode could easily destroy the entire World.
"How can I calm down!"
Logan clutched his head, trying to force his breathing to calm down.
But even so, he couldn't control it.
Because fear was like a maggot on the bone, impossible to shake off no matter what.
"Rest assured, if I really wanted to change you, you wouldn't even know about any of this."
Hode spread his hands helplessly. None of the people who had been with them had their memories of that time stripped away.
Of course, he had intentionally preserved them so that they would remember exactly what had happened.
Otherwise, if no one remembered what happened, wouldn't it be quite boring?
Besides, deleting everything and then implanting new memories would actually be quite a hassle.
So when he used the Phoenix Force, he merely changed the general mindset.
As for the subsequent direction of the World, he hadn't made any major changes.
Hearing this, Logan couldn't help but daze.
Because what Hode said made a lot of sense. If Hodereally wanted to do that, he wouldn't have been able to remember any of this.
"You're right. This is indeed the best solution."
Logan nodded helplessly. If they had to rely on themselves to solve this problem,
it would inevitably require a very long time of hard work. Even though they had strived for so many years, there were still people constantly targeting Mutants.
"In truth, the human heart is unpredictable. Even if I can alter the World's timeline, I can't keep changing it forever!"
"Moreover, no matter how the World is changed, there will always be someone who targets you because of your power!"
Hode said without hesitation, because he knew very well that what he had changed was merely people's impressions.
It only allowed people to coexist in harmony for now; in reality, there would still be plenty of trouble.
Because as long as they are human, they will worship power, especially this kind of power that can change the World.
"You have a point."
Logan nodded helplessly, knowing that Hode was telling the truth.
Even though he had already helped them solve so many problems, there were still many things that needed to be dealt with in the end.
"So Logan, we still have a lot of work to do!"
Charles smiled and patted Logan's shoulder.
It had to be said that such days were more interesting, because there would always be people who needed them.
Besides, they no longer had to worry about strange looks even when traveling.
Just then, Quill ran in, shouting with an excited look on his face, "Jean is back!"
"What?! Teacher Jean is actually back!"
"I'm going out to take a look. I thought it would take a lot longer!"
"This is simply wonderful! I haven't seen Teacher Jean in so long!"
"..."
The Mutants all ran outside excitedly.
Even Quill's face was covered in a smile.
Surrounded by everyone, a red-haired woman walked in with elegant steps.
Her high heels made crisp clicking sounds against the floor.
When Hode saw Jean Grey, the corners of his mouth couldn't help but curl up slightly.
A touch of joy also surged within his heart.
This was not only because of Jean Grey's appearance, but more so because she possessed the Phoenix Force within her body.
Since he possessed the Phoenix Force, he would naturally feel a subtle affection toward Jean Grey.
Besides, when he used his power to reshape the World, he had still kept a little selfish motive.
"Jean..."
Logan was just about to step forward to greet her, but suddenly remembered that because of the changes, the current Jean Grey might not know him yet.
And if he remembered correctly, Jean Grey should be dating Iceman.
At this thought, the corner of his mouth couldn't help but twitch.
In the end, he could only sigh helplessly.
At the same time, Jean Grey slowed her pace, her gaze landing directly on Hode.
The moment she saw Hode, she couldn't help but daze for a moment. A wave of familiarity instantly surged in her heart.
"You..."
Jean Grey quickly walked up to him and extended her right hand.
She could clearly feel a force, making it seem as though they were two people who had met long ago.
"Hello, Jean Grey. I am Hode Fernandez!"
Hode raised an eyebrow. He had to admit that this was a very wondrous feeling.
It was as if the two of them were originally one, and he could even feel that her mood at this moment was also extremely joyful.
"Um, I think we can have a chat when we have time."
Jean Grey took a deep breath and took the initiative to speak with an expectant look.
"Sure, I'd like to get to know you too. After all, we are quite familiar, aren't we?"
Hode opened his arms. An indescribable feeling welled up inside Jean Grey, and in the next second, she lunged forward and gave Hode a big hug.
Because this feeling was even closer than that of lovers who had known each other for years.
Therefore, in front of Hode, Jean Grey couldn't help but let down all her guard.
Watching the actions of these two, Logan, who was standing on the side, was completely dumbfounded.
After the two of them separated, Logan leaned in. "You guy are simply not human!"
"Huh?"
Faced with Logan's words, Hode was completely bewildered.
"And you said you only changed the general mindset. Tell me, what is going on here?"
Logan sized Hode up, gritting his teeth, his voice sounding as if it were squeezed out from between them.
After all, if Hode hadn't changed Jean Grey's mind, why would they be so intimate upon their very first meeting?
"Telepathy, plus I have the Phoenix Force."
Hode spread his hands and said helplessly, "I didn't change much. I only made it so that Jean Grey has always been single."
After all, he knew very well that even without intentional changes, when the two of them met, this indescribable feeling would inevitably arise.
It was also for this reason that the moment Jean Grey saw Hode, she came up to greet him right away.
It was as if it were destined, because the Phoenix Forcewould naturally attract each other.
---0 Requesting Flowers ---0
As long as they met, they would stick together tightly like magnets.
Can you tell me, where on earth did you get so many overpowered abilities?"
Logan was so jealous his face was twisted in a grimace; he had always felt his own abilities were actually pretty good.
After all, he could recover quickly as long as he was injured, although it was true that it wasn't quite enough to deal with Magneto.
But when dealing with other Mutants, he could at least trade blows back and forth.
Yet after Hode appeared, the impact he brought was simply too great.
He was practically a living BUG, able to do whatever he wanted.
And what made it even harder for him to accept was that there were so many different types of abilities.
It could be said that after seeing Hode's abilities, he realized there were basically no duplicates.
And every single ability was Omega-level; it was just too demoralizing.
"Don't worry about those details; you're actually pretty good yourself—you can still get injured when you're hit."
When Hode said this, Logan felt terrible.
This was nothing short of blatant mockery, yet he had absolutely no way to deal with it.
After all, whoever had the greater strength made the rules, and besides, what Hode said was indeed the truth.
He knew that Jean Grey's ability was the Phoenix Force, so everything being said was very likely.
Since they were a match made in heaven, then even if they changed to being single, it really wouldn't be excessive.
"Since everyone has basically returned today, let's throw a party!"
Charles raised a bottle of red wine and shouted loudly.
"Yay, I've been wanting to have a party for a long time!"
"Finally, we can properly relax!"
...
"I wonder what fun things there will be tonight!"
"..."
The Mutants couldn't help but raise their hands and cheer, and some even involuntarily used their abilities.
Just then, Charles seemed to recall something and continued: "No matter how you play, you absolutely must not use your abilities!"
Otherwise, if these guys got drunk, heaven knows what the academy would turn into.
Once these words were spoken, everyone naturally nodded in agreement.
As the party began, the lights inside the academy flickered continuously.
The newly joined Mutants couldn't help but keep twisting their bodies in the center.
As for Hode, he brought Clarice and Jean Grey to a sofa on the side to have a drink.
"Is the power inside you also the Phoenix Force?"
Jean Grey asked with a tone of confusion.
Although she had already sensed it, she wasn't certain.
"Yes!"
Hode raised his right hand, and as a trace of the Phoenix Force drifted, Jean Grey widened her eyes.
Because she could clearly feel that the Phoenix ForceHode was using was far, far purer than hers.
Moreover, an indescribable sense of trust and affection welled up from deep within.
"This looks so amazing!"
Clarice also noticed Jean Grey's gaze and, without hesitation, directly hugged Hode's left arm.
She even glared fiercely at Jean Grey, her eyes full of wariness.
Jean Grey only curled the corners of her mouth slightly, her eyes filled with disdain.
After hooking onto Hode's arm, she leaned gently against Hode's shoulder.
She was very clear that since she possessed the Phoenix Force, it meant that Clarice absolutely could not compare to her in terms of favorability.
So no matter what, Hode would choose her.
At this very moment, the two women started a silent competition.
If they weren't pouring wine for Hode, they were bringing food to feed into Hode's mouth.
"Damn it! This guy is truly damned!"
It was the first time Logan had discovered that he could be so jealous of others.
After all, what Hode was doing right now was simply having a beauty in each arm.
Moreover, Hode was still acting completely at ease, accepting the feeding from the two with a look of enjoyment.
Not bad!
Hode chewed on a grape and couldn't help but think to himself.
This moment actually made him feel a long-lost sense of happiness.
There wasn't even a shuraba, which made him even happier.
However, what Hode didn't know at this moment was that someone was frantically searching for him.
In another World.
Wanda was pacing back and forth in the manor with an anxious expression.
"Two days have already passed, where on earth did he go?"
She had already searched for all the Avengers teammates, and even contacted friends Hode might know.
There was not a shred of news about Hode.
But just at this moment, Wanda suddenly noticed a mark on the floor of the study.
"This is... a trace of spatial energy?"
"Wait, I've seen this on the chthon scroll!"
Wanda's expression tightened; could it be that he had encountered some danger!
Otherwise, why hadn't he returned after such a long time?
After hesitating for a moment, Wanda opened her copy of the chthon scroll and began to practice.
As she practiced, crimson light slowly enveloped Wanda.
A passage faintly appeared before her.