Chapter 43 : Scott Leaves!!

Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters is situated on the outskirts of Westchester, beneath the Twisted State.

Nestled along the Hudson River, the journey there boasts breathtaking scenery.

On the bus ride towards the city, Carl found himself drifting into a drowsy state, appearing somewhat listless.

Today marked a rare occasion for an outing, prompting many students to seize the opportunity. Accompanied by two supervising teachers, the bus was packed to capacity.

Yes, just a single bus.

Despite the school's student body comprising dozens of mutants with various inhuman traits, some even appearing entirely non-human, it was natural for them to avoid crowded areas to prevent any misunderstandings.

Hence, those who could venture into the city for leisure were mostly students with stable abilities and minimal deviations from the human norm. The total number of students across all three grades amounted to only about 20.

Among them, the majority were second-level deltas—while their abilities were stable and relatively flawless, they were comparably weak.

Each student was allocated three hundred dollars in spending money for the trip.

Though it may seem insignificant, in reality, the exchange rate equated to over 2,000 RMB, a considerable sum.

"As soon as we reach Westchester, we'll head here first—there's a large stationery bookstore, then we'll turn onto the next street to visit this Christmas dessert shop."

"Kayla mentioned that the sundaes at this establishment are divine, and the fruit-flavored cream cakes..."

Beside Carl, Clarice held a map of Westchester in one hand and a watercolor pen in the other, sketching out today's itinerary.

Kitty, who had arranged to meet up with Carl, sat opposite him, accompanied by another female mutant student.

Aha...

Yawning, Carl glanced at the riverside scenery outside, succumbing to a lazy stupor.

The weather today was overcast, with no rain, moderate winds, and a comfortable temperature, ideal for a day out.

However, for Carl, a day without sunshine was hardly considered favorable weather.

At that moment, Storm rose from her seat beside the driver. "We're approaching the urban area now, and we'll be stopping at Zilogg station in five minutes."

Leading the expedition were Storm and Wolverine.

"Remember, once we arrive, stick to the city center, and travel in pairs or groups of two or more."

"Simultaneously, ensure you carry a communicator with electronic positioning capabilities, enabling immediate location determination post-accident for swift assistance."

"If you're under ten and head to the playground, Mr. Logan will remain in the car. You can approach him if needed."

"Today's free time extends from the bus departure until 4:00 pm. Everyone, make sure to gather at..."

Following Storm's directives, the bus navigated through the bustling city and eventually halted at the designated stop. Instantly, excitement coursed through the students as they rose from their seats.

Clarice gently tugged at Carl's sleeve, whispering, "We've arrived, Carl."

Carl, still drowsy, replied lethargically, "Let's wait for the crowd to clear; there's no rush."

"Okay," the girl obediently acquiesced, then voiced her concern, "Carl, are you tired?"

Carl shook his head nonchalantly, remarking, "Nah, just had a bit of a scuffle in my dreams last night. Got 'killed' seven times, so I'm a bit out of it."

Clarice was momentarily taken aback. 'Beaten to death seven times in a dream? Is that even possible?'

As the time to disembark drew near, Carl and Clarice rose from their seats. However, as Carl prepared to exit, Logan called out from the back, "Carl, remember to keep the communicator handy. In case of an emergency, your assistance may be crucial."

"Got it, Mr. Logan."

"Carl, Clarice." As Clarice stepped out of the vehicle, she intended to pull Carl along when she spotted Kitty waiting for them with a cheerful smile on the roadside.

"Clarice, Kitty's joining us today."

Clarice snorted, casting a glance at Kitty, then at Carl, before offering Kitty a faint smile.

...

"Clarice, doesn't the school provide free stationery?"

Outside the largest stationery store in Westchester, Kitty looked at the dark-haired girl leading the way with a hint of puzzlement.

Clarice murmured, "I need to get a binder and some book covers."

"...What for?" Kitty's confusion deepened.

Carl smirked, "Probably for organizing comics."

"Comics?"

Clarice sighed inwardly, not particularly eager for others to know about her interest in comics. But with Carl's revelation, she could only force a sweet smile.

"It's Carl's creation, called Dragon Ball."

"Carl draws comics?" Kitty was taken aback.

Well, technically, that one time doesn't count; it was just a sketch.

Fortunately, Kitty didn't probe further, bringing a slight sense of relief to Clarice.

As Carl and the others enjoyed their time in Westchester, Scott made his way to the underground base within the school.

Speaking softly, Scott addressed the professor, "Professor, I need to take an extended journey."

Professor X responded calmly, "A journey? Where do you intend to go?"

"To Lake Yakkali."

A brief silence fell upon Professor X as he contemplated the significance of that location - the site of the X-Men's previous battle and where Jean Grey had met her demise. Since Jean's passing, Scott had been grappling with deep sorrow.

Time had swiftly passed, three years now gone by. With a heavy heart, Professor X sighed inwardly.

"Go, but be cautious. Should anything arise, inform me immediately," Professor X advised, recognizing that Scott's longing for this journey was undeniable.

Bid farewell to Professor X, Scott returned to his quarters, gathered a change of clothes, slung a bag over his shoulder, and mounted his motorcycle, departing through the school gates.

Lake Akkali lay on the border of the grand nation of Ghana, over 2,000 kilometers distant from the school in the United States.

****

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