Chapter 28: Neogenes!
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Riding a super jet through the sky, Nero, who was sitting at the cockpit with his legs over the dashboard, looked at Nigel, "I had no idea you could fly a plane."
Nigel chuckled, "I am a man of many talents."
Maria entered the cockpit, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "I hope one of those talents includes making a smooth landing."
Nero laughed, his golden eyes glinting with mischief. "Relax, Maria. Nigel's got this. Besides, what's the worst that could happen?"
Nigel grimaced, glancing at Nero's feet on the dashboard. "Perhaps you could start by taking your feet off the controls, Boss. It would greatly reduce the risk of us crashing."
Nero grinned, casually keeping his feet where they were. "Come on, Nigel. Live a little."
Diego's voice echoed from the back, full of appreciation. "I must say, Warren sure knows how to gift. This jet is gorgeous."
Donald, leaning against the doorway, nodded. "It's not just pretty, Diego. It's functional. State-of-the-art technology, reinforced structure... we're practically flying a fortress."
Sofia looking at the various screens said, "It's impressive, but we can't rely on just the jet. Our plan has to be foolproof."
Anthony finally spoke up. "We've gone over the details a hundred times. As long as we stick to the plan, we'll be fine. But let's hear it one last time, Nero."
Nero's expression turned serious. "Our destination is Cape Citadel, Florida. This mission is crucial. We can't afford any mistakes." Focusing on the flight path, he added. "Warren is already in Florida, waiting for our signal."
Sofia chuckled, "Is it true he didn't want to come with us until we proved we could fly this thing?"
Nigel snorted. "He has no idea who I am."
Maria patted his shoulder. "Sure, Nigel, sure."
Nero shook his head with a smile. "When we arrive, we should have a couple of days before the events start. Then we will go according to plan, but as I said, nothing is set in stone. Be prepared to improvise."
The others nodded. Donald asked, "This is going to be our biggest gig ever. How confident are you?"
Nero thought for a while. "It won't be easy, but it is necessary for us. This event is important for many that will follow, and I don't want to be excluded from this premiere."
Donald nodded with a smile. "That is enough for me." The others copied his smile. They trusted Nero, and if he said it was okay, then it was.
Soon, they reached the army base a little outside of Florida. With Warren backing them, they had no problems and were soon escorted to a giant room where Warren was seated, drinking a cold mojito.
"Ah, you are here," he greeted the gang as they entered.
"Comfortable, Warren?" Nero asked, raising an eyebrow at the drink.
Warren laughed, setting the glass down. "Just a little something to calm the nerves. You know how it is."
Maria glanced around the room, taking in the luxurious surroundings. "Nice place. Very... secure."
"Security is paramount," Warren replied, his tone turning serious. "Especially with what's coming."
Nero smiled. "Don't worry, Warren. You'll swoop in, kick the bad guy, and become a rich hero. Just the first of many that will follow soon."
Warren raised an eyebrow, unsure of Nero's meaning but nodded nonetheless. Nero began to outline the plan, detailing how Magneto, the ambitious mutant leader, would soon attack Cape Citadel to expose the existence of mutants to the world. In response, the X-Men would arrive to counter him, resulting in a clash that would make global headlines and spark fear and hatred towards mutants.
As Nero explained, his mind wandered to the inconsistencies in this world. Heroes like the Fantastic Four, who were essentially mutants, were celebrated, while others, like Magneto's kind, faced relentless persecution. Why the double standard? His thoughts deepened, considering the societal biases and underlying prejudices that drove such divisions.
Maria broke the silence, her voice calm amidst their overthinking minds. "Our role is to control the narrative. We need to ensure that when the dust settles, we're seen as the protectors, the ones who kept the chaos in check."
"Exactly," Nero agreed, his gaze intense. "We'll leverage Warren's influence and resources to shape public perception. Our actions here will set the stage for future moves."
The couple of days passed in a blur, as they trained with Warren to synchronize their efforts. When the signal rang throughout the base, the group left quickly and arrived at Cape Citadel just in time to see a rocket about to be launched.
"I pulled a lot of strings to learn the exact timing of the launch," Warren remarked, his gaze fixed on Nero, who nodded and then pointed at a person hiding in the distance. There, Angel saw a man wearing a helmet gazing at Cape Citadel with intense focus. To avoid Magneto's detection, none of the group wore anything metal except their rings. However, Vongola Rings were immune to magnetism, as Nero had tested.
Sofia stayed back at the base, supporting them through her laptop, while the rest prepared for what was to come.
Warren scanned the area with binoculars and muttered, "That's him. Magneto."
Nero adjusted his earpiece and said, "We need to be ready for anything. Stick to the plan, but be prepared to adapt."
Warren watched intently as Magneto floated above the launch site, his powers effortlessly dismantling the rocket's inner workings. The launch was aborted, the rocket crashing harmlessly into the nearby water. Despite his desire to confront the mutant, Warren knew he was not a fighter. Instead, he observed as the military personnel and NASA agents rushed out, quickly determining the sabotage had occurred before the launch.
"Is this it? We just wait?" Warren asked, frustration evident in his voice.
Nero nodded, maintaining his calm demeanor. "Magneto will seize the base tomorrow. Our arrival today was to confirm his presence. Tomorrow, we'll be ready."
The following day, headlines in the Daily Globe reported a "phantom saboteur" had thwarted yet another launch attempt, the twentieth such incident. The story spread quickly, causing ripples of fear and intrigue throughout the city. In the shadows of Cape Citadel, Nero and his crew prepared for the imminent confrontation.
The base was a scene of chaos as Magneto's powers wreaked havoc. Weapons fired erratically, tanks moved on their own, and soldiers scrambled for cover. Nero's team watched from a safe distance, their expressions a mix of awe and concern.
Magneto hovered above the ground, his arms outstretched as he manipulated the metal around him with ease. He seemed almost serene amidst the destruction he was causing.
"Show-off," Sofia muttered, her eyes fixed on the metallic dust forming words in the sky that read "Surrender the base or I'll take it by force. - Magneto."
As the missile launched, Donald sighed. "There goes any hope of a peaceful resolution."
Nero's eyes narrowed as he watched Magneto stride confidently into the base. "We need to move. We can't let him gain complete control."
Maria glanced at him, her voice steady despite the tension. "Any change, Nero?"
Nero took a deep breath, his mind focused. "We stick to the original strategy. We'll wait until this hits the media, then Donald will use the Lightning Ring to reduce Magneto's control over his magnetism. Nigel will engage him until the X-Men arrive. After that, we'll finish Magneto off with Warren dealing the final blow, making sure the cameras catch everything."
Maria nodded. "Timing is crucial. We need to make sure we strike when the media frenzy is at its peak."
Donald adjusted his grip on his cane. "I'll be ready. Just give the signal, and I'll disrupt his power."
Anthony quoted softly, "The best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry. Let's make sure ours doesn't."
Nero smirked. "Good. Let's show them what we're capable of."
Reporters soon arrived, ensuring they kept a safe distance. Magneto used his power to take control of the first helicopter, causing it to crash dramatically to demonstrate his might. As the media crews scrambled to capture the scene, Magneto floated into the sky, his voice booming across the area.
"The new age of humanity has begun. A superior race is born. Behold, before you stands a Homo Superior, the next step in evolution."
Nero's crew, now wearing wooden masks to conceal their identities, observed from a hidden vantage point. Maria tightened her grip on Nero's arm. "He's not holding back, is he?"
Diego, adjusting his mask, whispered, "We need to stay on track. Disruption phase, Donald."
Donald nodded, gripping his cane tightly. "On it."
Nero gave a slight nod. "Remember, our goal is to destabilize and then withdraw. We let the X-Men take the stage."
Magneto continued his speech, creating a spectacle with metal debris swirling around him. "Humans have oppressed us for too long. Today, we rise!"
Donald positioned himself strategically, hidden from Magneto's view. He activated his Lightning Ring, sending a controlled burst of electricity towards Magneto, subtly disrupting his control over the metal. The debris wobbled in the air, and Magneto's expression tightened with concentration.
"Now, Nigel," Nero commanded.
Nigel, only one without a mask, using his honed combat skills, launched a coordinated attack, aiming to keep Magneto occupied. He darted through the chaos, his movements swift and precise. The reporters, still focused on Magneto, began capturing the unfolding battle.
Nero looked at Nigel and turned to Diego, "Take your crew and steer the narrative."
Diego nodded and quickly moved towards the media as Maria used her ring to shift his face, accompanied by a group of people. He arrived just in time to hear a reporter speculating on Magneto's actions.
Diego raised his voice, ensuring he sounded natural and impassioned. "Magneto doesn't represent all Neogenes! Just like a single criminal doesn't represent all of humanity. He's acting alone, not on behalf of any group!"
A reporter turned her microphone towards Diego. "Do you think Magneto's actions will lead to more fear and hatred towards Neogenes?"
Diego sighed, shaking his head. "Unfortunately, that's possible. But it's important to remember that individuals like him are the exception, not the rule. There are many Neogenes out there who just want to live peaceful lives, contributing positively to society."
Meanwhile, Nigel engaged Magneto in battle. Nigel dodged and countered Magneto's metal projectiles with precision. The fight was intense, the air crackling with energy as metal clashed against force fields created by Nigel's Haki.
Magneto sneered, lifting a large piece of metal with a flick of his wrist. "You think you can stop me? You're just a puppet, fighting for humans who will never accept you."
Nigel's eyes narrowed, his voice steady. "I'm fighting for balance, for a world where we can coexist without fear. Your methods will only bring more chaos."
As the battle raged on, Diego continued to sway public opinion. He pointed to Nigel. "Look at him! A Neogene fighting to protect the very people Magneto threatens. This is the true spirit of our kind—courage, integrity, and the will to do what's right."
A bystander, intrigued by Diego's words, asked, "Who is that guy fighting Magneto?"
Diego smiled, his charm evident. "That's Cloud, another Neogene. He's proof that we're not defined by the actions of a few. We're individuals, each with our own values and choices."
The crowd murmured in agreement, the fear and suspicion in their eyes beginning to fade. Nigel, sensing the shift in public perception, intensified his efforts. He used his Observation Haki to predict Magneto's movements, striking with calculated precision.
Magneto growled, frustrated by Nigel's resilience. "You're wasting your potential, aligning yourself with these humans. They will never see you as one of their own."
Nigel's response was calm but firm. "It's not about being seen as one of them. It's about creating a world where we all can live in harmony."
Nero, watching the battle from a distance, knew they were on the right track. He turned to Anthony, who had been silently observing. "Anthony, let's get ready to move. We need to ensure the X-Men arrive at the perfect moment."
Sofia reported from the base. "I've managed to hack into the media feeds. We're broadcasting this live. The world is seeing Nigel's bravery and Magneto's tyranny."
Donald added, "This is a crucial moment. The narrative we set now will influence public opinion for years to come."
Back on the battlefield, Nigel and Magneto clashed fiercely. Nigel's abilities and Haki was keeping him one step ahead, but it was clear he was not aiming to defeat Magneto alone. He was buying time, creating a spectacle that would draw the X-Men into the fray at the most opportune moment.
Magneto, sensing the impending arrival of more opponents, intensified his attacks, but Nigel's resilience held strong. As the battle reached its peak, the sound of a jet engine roared overhead. The X-Men had arrived, and the tide was about to turn.
Nigel, glancing up, allowed himself a brief smile before renewing his efforts. "The cavalry has arrived. Let's finish this."
With the X-Men joining the fight, the battle against Magneto became a symbol of unity and hope. Diego's words and Nigel's actions had laid the groundwork for a new narrative—one where Neogenes were seen as allies, not threats.
As the X-Men jet descended, it revealed its small but formidable team. At the forefront, Cyclops emerged, his visor gleaming with the promise of his powerful optic blasts. Beside him, Wolverine's claws gleamed menacingly, his gaze sharp and focused. Behind them, a blind girl moved with surprising confidence; it was Toph, whose earthbending senses made her acutely aware of her surroundings. Completing the team was Sokka, who now wielded a flame sword with telekinetic abilities granted by Nero.
Nero, observing from a distance, turned to Warren. "Get ready, and remember to smile for the cameras."
Warren nodded, adjusting his feathers and trying to look calm despite the looming battle.
As the X-Men approached, Magneto's attention shifted to the new arrivals. Cyclops wasted no time, firing a precise optic blast that Magneto narrowly deflected with a sheet of metal. Wolverine charged in, claws slashing through Magneto's barriers with a feral intensity.
Toph manipulated the ground beneath Magneto, causing tremors and disruptions to throw off his concentration. Sokka, with his flame sword, provided agile support, telekinetically directing his strikes with surprising accuracy.
Magneto, though powerful, found himself momentarily overwhelmed by the coordinated assault. His magnetic control wavered under the combined pressure, giving Nigel the opening he needed. Nigel darted in, using his Haki-enhanced speed and precision to strike at Magneto's weak points.
Cyclops barked orders, "Wolverine, left flank! Toph, keep those tremors coming! Sokka, aim for his helmet!"
Wolverine snarled as he leaped to the left, slashing at the metal projectiles Magneto hurled. Toph stomped her foot, sending seismic waves that kept Magneto unsteady. Sokka, his flame sword blazing, launched a strike towards Magneto's helmetl.
Nero's plan was simple. As he watched, he saw Nigel positioning himself with the help of Observation Haki. Nigel darted nimbly, avoiding metallic projectiles that Magneto hurled at him. In the chaos, Cyclops and Wolverine found themselves dodging the errant debris, their coordination momentarily disrupted by the intensity of the battle.
Toph and Sokka, both originally summoned by Nero, feigned injuries at the perfect moment, drawing Magneto's attention and causing the media to gasp. Toph collapsed, clutching her side, while Sokka staggered back, his flame sword flickering.
Diego murmured, "Is there no hope?" His voice echoed the growing despair of the crowd.
Magneto, sensing victory, floated higher, his arms raised triumphantly. "Behold, humans! The new era begins now!"
The media watched with bated breath, cameras focused on every move. Nero signaled Donald, who clenched his Ring of Lightning. At the precise moment, Donald unleashed a surge of electricity, synchronizing it with Warren's attack. Warren swooped in from the heavens, his wings glowing with an ethereal light of lightning, diving towards Magneto with blinding speed.
The spectacle was breathtaking. To the viewers and media, it looked like a divine intervention, a bolt of heavenly lightning striking Magneto down. Warren's final blow was captured perfectly on camera, his figure radiant against the dark sky.
"Did you see that?" one reporter exclaimed. "It's as if the hand of God punished Magneto!"
Magneto, stunned and weakened, fell to the ground, struggling to maintain his composure. Warren landed gracefully, his feathers ruffling as he stood over Magneto, the embodiment of a guardian angel.
Nero, watching from the sidelines, smirked. The plan had worked flawlessly. By using Donald's Lightning Ring to enhance Warren's attack, they created the illusion of divine retribution.
Just at that moment, Warren looked at Magneto and said, "Your reign of terror ends here, Magneto. It's time for a new era—one where we protect, not destroy."
Magneto sneered, struggling to stand. "You think you can stop me? I am the future of our kind!"
Warren's gaze was steady, unwavering. "Not if your future is built on fear and hatred. You will face justice."
Magneto, despite his weakened state, sneered up at Warren. "Justice? From a mere puppet?"
Warren stood tall, unfazed. "Not a puppet. An angel of retribution." He flared his wings, the light reflecting off the white feathers, creating an ethereal glow.
The media captured every word, and the image of Warren standing tall over a defeated Magneto began to flood the news outlets. The narrative was shifting, and the public perception of mutants was starting to change.
Nero observed the scene with satisfaction. He turned to his team. "We've set the stage. Now we let the X-Men take over and ensure the story spreads."
Anthony nodded. "We should make our exit before we attract more attention."
Maria agreed. "We've done our part. The media will handle the rest."
Nero smirked. "Good. Let's get out of here. Sofia is waiting."
They moved swiftly, avoiding the main pathways and using their intimate knowledge of the base to evade detection. As they reached the exit, Donald glanced back at the scene of chaos and conflict as Nigel joined them. "You think this will really change anything?"
Nero, his golden eyes reflecting the distant flames, replied, "It's a start. Public perception is powerful. If they see us as protectors, it gives us leverage."
They piled into the jet and the engine purred to life. "How was it, I saw the news, but it should still be better to watch with your own eyes?" Sofia's voice chimed in.
"Better than expected, Sofia," Nero smiled, leaning back in his seat as the jet sped away from the chaos.
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