"Was this really me?"
John looked at himself in the mirror. The black fabric was expertly tailored and fit him perfectly, cinched at the waist to emphasize his chest and shoulders, giving him a solid, powerful appearance. His shoulders, collar, and cuffs were embroidered with exquisite silver patterns. A vivid armband bearing crimson flames wrapped around his right arm, while a metal badge marked with a red-and-white umbrella emblem rested on his chest.
The uniform's style closely resembled that of the German SS, carrying an austere, chilling air. Yet more important than its ornate design was the new material cultivated from symbiotes and developed by Umbrella. It was lightweight, bulletproof, capable of optical camouflage, and possessed a range of combat functions. It had not yet been formally adopted by the military.
As the Mutant Registration Act was gradually implemented, most of the young people at the academy chose to reveal their identities and become officially registered Mutants. The government departments and Mr. Sipes had not gone back on their word either. In accordance with the act's provisions, they were granted legal status and social welfare protections, enjoying all the civil rights of this country.
Unlike the hesitant Iceman Bobby, John and many of his friends joined Umbrella. Mutants with outstanding combat abilities, such as himself and Colossus Peter, were assigned security positions at the new company. They received generous monthly salaries, and exceptional performance could even earn them military commissions.
The sudden change did not leave the hotheaded young fire wielder confused. On the contrary, he was brimming with fighting spirit. John was not as reserved and obedient as his friend Bobby, nor was he as mild-tempered as Colossus Peter. He had his own ideas and ambitions.
In the original timeline, John ultimately chose to follow Magneto rather than return