The next day, the doctoral defense at Oxford University came to a close.
Charles answered calmly throughout. With his solid academic grounding and forward-thinking theories on genetic mutation, he passed his defense and officially earned his doctorate.
Without the slightest reluctance, he said goodbye to the university staff and hurried straight back to his rented apartment.
His mind was already filled with thoughts of his own kind in New York and the mysterious Vought International. All he wanted now was to pack his bags as quickly as possible and head for that new world.
After packing all his belongings quickly and efficiently, Charles picked up his suitcase and was about to open the door and leave.
Just as he was about to step outside, a sharp knock suddenly rang out.
Charles stopped, his brow furrowing slightly as a measure of confusion rose within him.
He had always kept a low profile at Oxford, rarely going out or socializing. Besides, after his defense, he had already said goodbye to everyone he needed to. Almost no one would make a special visit.
He instinctively activated his telepathic senses. Standing outside was an unfamiliar woman with a capable air and striking looks, yet he seemed to have no memory of ever meeting her.
Suppressing his doubts, Charles opened the door and regarded the woman outside with a somewhat searching gaze.
"Hello, who are you looking for?"
Wearing a faint, composed, and appropriate smile, the woman took half a step forward and readily offered her hand, her tone polite.
"Hello, Professor Xavier. I'm Moira MacTaggert. I had the pleasure of listening to your defense presentation. It was excellent."
Charles paused briefly, then reached out and shook her hand lightly, replying politely:
"I'm Charles Xavier. Thank you very much for your appreciation, but I really