video; un: E. Lehnsherr

[magneticfields]

[ Erik appears on the video looking straight at the camera, the angle wide enough that it's clear he's not actually holding it. It's unclear who, or what, is holding it as he is alone. He's deeply uncomfortable with having to make this address, but as he rarely looks pleased with what's going on anyway this isn't terribly different from his normal expression. ]

Fellow residents. A few days ago, while repairing the gravity array, I used some abilities that I had previously concealed. On my world, I am what is known as a mutant. That means I have an active X-Gene, which grants me abilities that humans do not possess. These abilities can manifest in a multitude of ways. As for myself, I can control metal by manipulating magnetic fields.

My people are persecuted on my world. We are subject to everything from casual bigotry to attempts at nuclear genocide. When we arrived, I suspected that this could be another crime against us, or that the other residents would display the same prejudice that I have been battling for the last twenty years. So I concealed my identity and my abilities in an attempt to protect myself and any other mutants on board. [ He sighs softly. ] I also did not expect to be here long enough for it to matter.

Since this engagement appears to be lasting longer than I first thought, and I have been using my abilities in mixed company, as it were, I decided the most efficient course of action would be to make a public announcement rather than having multiple personal conversations. My name is Erik Lehnsherr, also known as Magneto. I am a mutant. I apologize to those I have misled. And if you are also a mutant, I want you to know that you are not alone, and do not need to be afraid.

Comments

un: orchids | voice

[blacksky]

I will give you this: Magneto is a better name than Iron Man or Captain America. At least the second one does us the courtesy of being beautiful while having a ridiculous name.

voice;

[magneticfields]

[ He smiles a little. ]

I didn't come up with it. It was a gift.

[blacksky]

Not bad as far as gifts go. Your ability sounds fun by the way. The part about people trying to kill you less so, but I suppose that was a given.

[magneticfields]

Sometimes they combine in very fun ways, though. Especially when they're not expecting it.

[blacksky]

That sounds exciting... but, I don't think you'll be showing that here. It sounds like everyone is fine with who you are which is fantastic for you. Personally I wouldn't mind crushing some pathetic, insecure little men, but you shouldn't suffer for my pleasure.

[magneticfields]

I wouldn't necessarily agree with you on the universality of my appeal, my dear. But at least the ones who dislike me seem to be basing it on the quality of my character. And isn't that the dream we've all been working to achieve? [ He drawls drily. ]

And why shouldn't I? I've suffered for far less appealing reasons.

[blacksky]

Well there's no accounting for taste. I happen to appreciate you. Not everyone would be so willing to have a bit of fun with me especially when it hurts.

[magneticfields]

[ He's not stupid enough to take flattery like that from a woman like her at face value. But it's still nice to hear. He enjoys it on that surface level, at least, and flashes a slight smile. ]

How can you tell if you're having fun if it doesn't hurt?

[blacksky]

Not sure. Maybe it depends on if I smile or not while I'm doing it.

[magneticfields]

I'm sure if I tried hard enough, I could do something to make you smile, my dear.

[blacksky]

Is that a challenge? I love those.

[magneticfields]

If you think I'm up for it.

[blacksky]

I am willing to let you try.

[magneticfields]

Your place or mine?

[blacksky]

Your place obviously. I love spying on people. It's one of my passions in life.

[It really sounds like she's kidding to her credit.]

[magneticfields]

Considering the fact that none of my personal effects made the trip with me, there's precious little to learn, here. Except perhaps that I keep my quarters tidier than most. So if information is all you're after, I'm afraid you'll be disappointed.

[blacksky]

I actually am disappointed because my quarters are equally uninteresting. I was hoping for a change of pace. I'll leave the super spy activities to the people in those terrible leather outfits.

[magneticfields]

The most interesting thing I have to offer is my company, I'm afraid.

[blacksky]

Don't undersell yourself. If you were boring, I'd never make an effort to talk to you, would I?

[magneticfields]

I just don't want raise expectations to a point I'm unlikely to reach. Or maybe trying to lower them enough that I'll seem even more extraordinary.

[blacksky]

Don't get nervous on me now. I haven't even done anything yet.

[magneticfields]

Beautiful women always make me nervous.

[blacksky]

Fantastic line. Can I steal it?

[magneticfields]

If we keep talking, you may get even better ones. You inspire me to greater heights.

[ There's a hint of amusement in his tone. He's laying it on thick, and they both know it. Which is part of the fun. ]