Ignited Minds.

[Rodent]

Xavier heard her, and did not hear her at the same time. He was busy trying to ignore his inner voice, who was taking great delight in listing all the ways in which he'd sacrifice anyone who trusted him for the greater good. For all his vaunted intelligence, he didn't understand this particular manifestation of his own insanity. It claimed to be the force of individuality, for good...and yet, it was also his cruelty and vindictiveness brought to the fore.

He shook his head. Brooding on that would be a dark road from which there was no return. No one could know that he was this close to being a complete wreck of a person, as there was a job to do. But he could no longer carry everything on his own back, and would (terrifyingly) need to trust others to do his work.

He turned his face towards her for a moment and smiled wanly.

"I'm just worn out, General. Haven't really taken a break in a very long time. I'm sure you understand that...I've heard of your efforts."

He nodded in appreciation, before turning his face back.

"Take a moment. Admire the view."