Russell ignored the crowd's fervor. His gaze passed over the heads of the kneeling believers below and settled on the tall, dark-blue figure not far from the Empire State Building.
Apocalypse was looking up too. His blazing white eyes met Russell's golden gaze in midair.
The Four Horsemen each took half a step forward, on guard.
War Knight's hand went to his sword hilt. Famine Knight's fingers hovered over her bowstring, while a vial slipped from Plague Knight's sleeve into his palm.
Apocalypse raised a hand, signaling them to stand down.
"No need to be nervous." Apocalypse's voice was low and steady, with the weight of a sandstorm rolling across a stony plain.
"I can sense that he bears us no hostility. Not at the moment, at least."
Russell descended slowly into the plaza before the Empire State Building. The golden halo behind him drew inward until it was a faint outline, like a cloak that would never fade.
He studied Apocalypse for a few seconds. The helmet, the striking armor, and the ancient light flowing through those white eyes resembled the Apocalypse from Days of Future Past, though this one looked even more imposing and ancient.
Then a knowing smile touched his lips.
"Apocalypse. En Sabah Nur." His voice carried clearly across the plaza. "The oldest known Mutant on Earth. I sensed you waking from your slumber while I was at the hotel."
Apocalypse tilted his head slightly. "You know me."
"Records of your name have survived on this planet for thousands of years." Russell took two unhurried steps forward.
"But I didn't expect the first thing you'd do after waking to be bringing the Four Horsemen into my territory. Interested in me? Or are you looking to take over my body?"
Apocalypse was silent for two seconds, then